bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Different Treatments for Oestrous Induction in Seasonally Anovulatory Mares
Authors: Vizuete G , Diez E , Galisteo J , Agüera E , Aguilera‐Tejero E , Perez‐Marín CC
Published: November 2012

Contents

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of different treatments for induction and synchronization of oestrus and ovulation in seasonally anovulatory mares. Fifteen mares formed the control group (C), while 26 mares were randomly assigned to three treatment groups. Group T1 (n = 11) were treated with oral altrenogest (0.044 mg/kg; Regumate®) during 11 days. Group T2 (n = 7) was intravaginally treated with 1.38 g of progesterone (CIDR®) for 11 days. In group T3 (n = 8), mares were also treated with CIDR®, but only for 8 days. All mares received PGF2α 1 day after finishing the treatment. Sonographic evaluation of follicles, pre‐ovulatory follicle size and ovulation time was recorded. Progesterone and leptin levels were analysed. Results show that pre‐ovulatory follicles were developed after the treatment in 88.5% of mares. However, the pre‐ovulatory follicle growth was dispersal, and sometimes it was detected when treatment was not finished. While in mares treated with intravaginal device, the follicle was soon detected (1.5 ± 1.2 days and 2.3 ± 2.0 days in T2 and T3 groups, respectively), in T1 group, the pre‐ovulatory follicle was detected slightly later (3.9 ± 1.6 days). The interval from the end of treatment to ovulation did not show significant differences between groups (T1 = 13.1 ± 2.5 days; T2 = 11.0 ± 3.6 days; T3 = 13.8 ± 4.3 days). The pregnancy rate was 47.4%, similar to the rate observed in group C (46.7%; p > 0.05). Initial leptin concentrations were significantly higher in mares, which restart their ovarian activity after treatments, suggesting a role in the reproduction mechanisms in mares. It could be concluded that the used treatments may be effective for oestrous induction in mares during the late phase of the seasonally anovulatory period. Furthermore, they cannot synchronize oestrus, and then, it is necessary to know the reproductive status of mares when these treatments are used for oestrous synchronization.
Limited SP17 expression within tumors diminishes its therapeutic potential
Authors: Gjerstorff M. F. , Ditzel H. J.
Published: November 2012

In this study, we have investigated the expression of the tumor antigen sperm protein 17 (SP17) in a large panel of human cancers and compared it with the expression of two well‐characterized families of tumor antigens, melanoma‐associated antigen‐A (MAGE‐A) and G antigen (GAGE). We found that SP17 was expressed in many cancer types with an overall frequency of 12%. SP17 was most frequently expressed in a different set of cancer types than MAGE‐A and GAGE antigens and rarely overlapped with these proteins. Importantly, SP17 expression was limited to a small number of scattered cancer cells in most positive tumors in contrast to MAGE‐A and GAGE proteins, which were homogenously expressed in large foci. Our results suggest that SP17 may not be an optimal target for cancer vaccines.
Sequencing of the new HLA‐B*44:150 allele suggests recombination between B*44:02:01:01 and B*07:02:01 alleles
Authors: Balas A. , Gonzalez‐Roiz C. , Vargas M. L. , García‐Sánchez F. , Vicario J. L.
Published: November 2012

B*44:150 was identical to B*44:02:01:01 except at the 3′‐end region of exon 3, where a B*07‐specific sequence was identified.
Characterization of the major histocompatibility complex class IA alleles in cynomolgus macaques of Vietnamese origin
Authors: Zhang G.‐Q. , Ni Ch. , Ling F. , Qiu W. , Wang H.‐B. , Xiao Y. , Guo X.‐J. , Huang J.‐Y. , Du H.‐L. , Wang J.‐F. , Zhao Sh.‐J. , Zhuo M. , Wang X.‐N.
Published: November 2012

Cynomolgus macaques (Macaca fascicularis, Mafa) have emerged as an important animal model for infectious disease and transplantation research. Extensive characterization of their major histocompatibility complex (MHC) polymorphism regions therefore becomes urgently required. In this study, we identified 41 MHC class I A nucleotide sequences in 34 unrelated cynomolgus macaques of Vietnamese origin farmed in Southern China, including eight novel Mafa‐A sequences. We found two sequences with perfect identity and six sequences with close similarity to previously defined MHC class I alleles from other populations, especially from Indonesian‐origin macaques. We also found three Vietnamese‐origin cynomolgus macaque MHC class I sequences for which the predicted protein sequences identical throughout their B and F binding pockets to Mamu‐A1*001:01 and Mamu‐A3*13:03, respectively. This is important because Mamu‐A1*001:01 and Mamu‐A3*13:03 are associated with longer survival and lower set‐point viral load in simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV)‐infected rhesus monkeys. These findings have implications for the evolutionary history of Vietnamese‐origin cynomolgus macaque as well as for the use of this model in SIV/SHIV (a virus combining parts of the HIV and SIV genomes) research.
Using HLA loci to inform ancestry and health in Polynesian and Maori populations
Authors: Edinur H. A. , Dunn P. P. J. , Hammond L. , Selwyn C. , Velickovic Z. M. , Lea R. A. , Chambers G. K.
Published: November 2012

Human leukocyte antigens (HLA) are important genetic markers of tissue identity and accurately reflect ancestral history. The work reported in this paper provides a detailed description of HLA polymorphism in Polynesian and Maori individuals in relation to other populations. Our study concerns HLA classes I and II antigens in Polynesian (N = 36) and Maori (N = 114) subjects genotyped at two digit resolution by New Zealand Blood Service Laboratory in Auckland using polymerase chain reaction‐sequence specific oligonucleotide and PCR‐SSP technologies. We have also compared our data with those from other Austronesian‐speaking Mongoloid and Papuan‐speaking Australoid populations in order to test previously published account of the origin of Proto‐Polynesians via gender‐biassed gene flow between these two ancestral populations. We use principal coordinate analysis for this purpose, arguing this approach to be superior to tree‐based methods, because of factors associated with population history and admixture. Our data are in general agreement with earlier work and reflect received wisdom on the dual origin of Proto‐Polynesians. They also show the way in which the genetic make‐up of Polynesian and Maori subjects is changing due to intermarriage with Europeans.
Oral miltefosine for Indian post‐kala‐azar dermal leishmaniasis: a randomised trial
Authors: Sundar Shyam , Sinha Prabat , Jha T. K. , Chakravarty Jaya , Rai Madhukar , Kumar Nawin , Pandey Krishna , Narain M. K. , Verma N. , Das V. N. R. , Das P. , Berman Jonathan , Arana Byron
Published: November 2012

Objective

Standard treatment of Indian post‐kala‐azar dermal leishmaniasis (PKDL) is unsatisfactory because to achieve therapeutic effectiveness, heroic courses of parenteral and toxic agents have to be administered. Our objective was to evaluate oral miltefosine for its potential to provide effective as well as tolerable treatment for this disease.

Method

Open‐label, randomised, parallel‐group multicentric trial. Miltefosine, 100 mg/day to all but one patient, was administered for 12 weeks or 8 weeks, with a target of 18 patients in each treatment group. Key endpoints were tolerance during treatment and efficacy at 12 months of follow‐up.

Results

The ITT and per‐protocol cure rates after 12 months of follow‐up for patients receiving 12 weeks of therapy were 78% (14 of 18 patients: 95% CI = 61–88%) and 93% (14 of 15 patients: 95% CI = 71–95%), respectively, after 12 months of follow‐up. The ITT and per‐protocol cure rates for patients receiving 8 weeks of therapy were 76% (13 of 17 patients: 95% CI = 53–90%) and 81% (13 of 16 patients: 95% CI = 57–93%), respectively. Gastrointestinal and other adverse events were rare.

Conclusions

This study suggests that oral miltefosine for 2–3 months can be considered a treatment of choice for Indian PKDL.
Severe mental illness at ART initiation is associated with worse retention in care among HIV‐infected Ugandan adults
Authors: Nachega Jean B. , Mutamba Brian , Basangwa David , Nguyen Hoang , Dowdy David W. , Mills Edward J. , Katabira Elly , Nakimuli‐Mpungu Ethel
Published: November 2012

Objective

The impact of severe mental illness (SMI) on retention in HIV care remains uncertain. We aimed to measure the association between SMI at antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation and subsequent retention in care in HIV‐infected Ugandan adults.

Method

We conducted cohort study of 773 patients who initiated ART between January 2005 and July 2009 at the Butabika HIV clinic in Kampala, Uganda. SMI was defined as any clinically diagnosed organic brain syndrome, affective disorder or psychotic disorder. We used Kaplan–Meier and Cox proportional hazards analysis to evaluate the association between SMI and retention in care.

Results

The prevalence of SMI at ART initiation was 23%. Patients with SMI at baseline were similar to those without SMI in terms of age (median [IQR]: 35 [28–40] vs. 35 [30–40], P = 0.03), sex (36% vs. 35% female, P = 0.86) and baseline CD4+ T‐cell count (112 [54–175] vs. 120 [48–187] cells/mm3, P = 0.86). At 12 months after ART initiation, Kaplan–Meier estimates of continuous retention in care were 65% (95% confidence interval, CI: 31–39%) among patients without SMI, vs. 47% (95% CI: 39–55%) among those with SMI (P < 0.001). All‐cause mortality in the two groups was similar: 1.2% vs. 2.0% (P > 0.05). In multivariable analysis, the only baseline variable independently associated with breakage of continuous care was SMI (HR = 1.58, 95% CI: 1.06─2.33).

Conclusions

Severe mental illness at ART initiation is associated with worse retention in HIV care in this urban Ugandan referral hospital. As ART is scaled up across sub‐Saharan Africa, greater attention must be paid to the burden of mental illness and its impact on retention in care.
Multidisciplinary Approach to Epizootiology and Pathogenesis of Bat Rabies Viruses in the United States
Authors: Ellison J. A. , Johnson S. R. , Kuzmina N. , Gilbert A. , Carson W. C. , VerCauteren K. C. , Rupprecht C. E.
Published: November 2012

Zoonotic disease surveillance is typically initiated after an animal pathogen has caused disease in humans. Early detection of potentially high‐risk pathogens within animal hosts may facilitate medical interventions to cope with an emerging disease. To effectively spillover to a novel host, a pathogen may undergo genetic changes resulting in varying transmission potential in the new host and potentially to humans. Rabies virus (RABV) is one model pathogen to consider for studying the dynamics of emerging infectious diseases under both laboratory and field conditions. The evolutionary history of RABV is characterized by regularly documented spillover infections and a series of notable host shifts. Within this context, enhanced field surveillance to improve detection of spillover infections will require validated techniques to non‐invasively differentiate infected from non‐infected individuals. In this study, we evaluate the use of infrared thermography to detect thermal changes associated with experimental RABV infection in big brown bats (Eptesicus fuscus) in a captive colony. Our results indicated that 62% of rabid bats had detectable facial temperature decreases (−4.6°C, SD ± 2.5) compared with pre‐inoculation baseline values. These data suggest potential utility for discriminating rabid bats in natural field settings. In addition, focusing upon RABV circulating in the United States between 2008 and 2011, we confirmed spillover events of bat RABV among carnivores and identified cross‐species transmission events caused by four lineages of RABV associated with insectivorous bats. Additionally, our analysis of RABV glycoprotein sequences identified substitutions in antigenic sites that may affect neutralizing activity associated with monoclonal antibodies proposed for use in human post‐exposure prophylaxis. This study provides a glimpse into RABV pathobiology and spillover dynamics among and between bats and a variety of mesocarnivores.
Improved approach to Fowler–Nordheim plot analysis
Authors: Forbes Richard G. , Fischer Andreas , Mousa Marwan S.
Published: November 2012

This article introduces an improved approach to Fowler–Nordheim (FN) plot analysis, based on a new type of intercept correction factor. This factor is more cleanly defined than the factor previously used. General enabling theory is given that applies to any type of FN plot of data that can be fitted using a FN-type equation. Practical use is limited to emission situations where slope correction factors can be reliably predicted. By making a series of well-defined assumptions and approximations, it is shown how the general formulas reduce to provide an improved theory of orthodox FN-plot data analysis. This applies to situations where the circuit current is fully controlled by the emitter characteristics, and tunneling can be treated as taking place through a Schottky–Nordheim (SN) barrier. For orthodox emission, good working formulas make numerical evaluation of the slope correction factor and the new intercept correction factor quick and straightforward. A numerical illustration, using simulated emission data, shows how to use this improved approach to derive values for parameters in the full FN-type equation for the SN barrier. Good self-consistency is demonstrated. The general enabling formulas also pave the way for research aimed at developing analogous data-analysis procedures for nonorthodox emission situations.
Molecular dynamics study of the structural modification of graphene by electron irradiation
Authors: Asayama Yoshiki , Yasuda Masaaki , Tada Kazuhiro , Kawata Hiroaki , Hirai Yoshihiko
Published: November 2012

Molecular dynamics simulations have been used to study the structural modification of graphene by electron irradiation. The authors used the Monte Carlo method to introduce the interaction between incident electrons and carbon atoms in graphene. Then, the effects of electron energy and incident angle on irradiation defects in single-layer graphene were studied, and the cutting of single-layer graphene using different methods of electron irradiation was compared. Following this, the authors simulated the process of single atom chain formation from single-layer graphene using electron irradiation. They also demonstrated the formation of three-dimensional structures, such as tubular structures and nanotube junctions, in bilayer graphene by electron irradiation. The simulations show the capability of structural modification of graphene to a variety of nanostructures by electron irradiation.
Apparatus for deposition of composition spread alloy films: The rotatable shadow mask
Authors: Fleutot Benoit , Miller James B. , Gellman Andrew J.
Published: November 2012

Composition spread alloy films (CSAFs) are materials libraries used for high throughput investigations of multicomponent materials such as alloys, AxByC1−x−y. CSAFs are prepared such that the alloy film has a lateral spatial gradient in its local composition; thus, they include a set of alloy samples with a distribution of compositions that spans a continuous region of composition space (x,y). A tool based on the shadow mask concept has been developed for generating composition gradients, but modified to allow rotation of the shadow mask during CSAF deposition. The tool allows deposition of CSAFs containing up to four elements with rotatable shadow masks between each of the four electron beam evaporation sources and the deposition substrate. This allows codeposition of any combination of up to four components. In the case of the ternary AxByC1−x−y CSAFs, the three components can be deposited such that the resulting CSAF spans the entire ternary alloy composition space (x = 0 → 1, y = 0 → 1 − x) and, furthermore, contains all three binary alloys AxB1−x, AxC1−x, and BxC1−x (x = 0 → 1) and all three pure components. The innovation of the rotatable shadow masks also allows preparation of CSAFs that magnify selected regions of the composition space (x = xmin → xmax, y = ymin → 1 − x). Herein, we describe the design and performance of this new CSAF deposition tool and assess its merits and limitations with respect to other methods for CSAF preparation.
Study of the interaction of polymethylmethacrylate fragments with methyl isobutyl ketone and isopropyl alcohol
Authors: Ali Mohammad Mohammad , Poulose Santo Kolattukudy , Dew Steven K. , Stepanova Maria
Published: November 2012

Exposure of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) during electron beam lithography (EBL) produces small polymer fragments that dissolve rapidly during the development process. The resist dissolution behavior varies greatly depending on the nature of the developer (solvent) and therefore influences the selection of the EBL parameters, such as dose (sensitivity). A molecular scale examination of the development process is necessary to elucidate the resist–developer interaction mechanisms. In this work, the authors investigate the interaction of short PMMA chains (containing up to 10 MMA units) with common developer components methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK) and isopropyl alcohol (IPA). For this purpose, the authors conduct molecular dynamics simulations using the Accelrys Materials Studio package. The simulation results were used to characterize the mixtures in the spirit of the Flory–Huggins theory of polymers and also to extract the diffusivities. The authors found that the behavior of PMMA fragments differed considerably in MIBK as compared with IPA. PMMA fragments containing more than three monomers exhibit stronger attractive interaction with MIBK. For all fragment sizes simulated, the diffusivity of PMMA fragments is 60–160% higher in MIBK as well. Similarly, the authors observed differences in the gyration radii. The authors conclude that the kinetic factor seems to be more significant as compared to affinity factor when accounting for differences in exposure sensitivities due to developer selection.
Investigation of nonreactive fluoroalkyl-containing surfactants for reducing release energy of ultraviolet-cured acrylate resins
Authors: Nakagawa Masaru , Endo Ayako , Tsukidate Yoshitaka
Published: November 2012

The authors investigated the types of additive nonreactive fluorinated surfactants that effectively decrease the release energy of a certain ultraviolet-cured base resin for radical photopolymerization. The release energies of resins containing various surfactants were compared in two atmospheres, namely air and 1,1,1,3,3-pentafluoropropane (PFP, HFC-245fa). Tridecafluoro-1,1,2,2-tetrahydrooctan-1-ol functioned as the most effective surfactant under an air atmosphere, for detachment of a silica surface modified with tridecafluoro-1,1,2,2-tetrahydrotrimethoxysilane from the cured resins. Under a PFP atmosphere, heptadecafluoro-1,1,2,2-tetrahydrodecan-1-ol with a longer fluoroalkyl chain was necessary to effectively decrease the release energy. It was indicated that the segregation of liquid fluoroalkyl alcohols between the cured resin and modified mold was effective in decreasing the release energy of cured resins.
Size dependent enhancement of photoelectron emission quantum efficiencies from magnesium dots
Authors: Choi Heon J. , Raghunathan Ananthan , Groves Timothy R.
Published: November 2012

The authors report enhancement of photoelectron emission quantum efficiencies from magnesium dots fabricated by electron beam lithography and irradiated by ultraviolet 266 nm (4.66 eV) pulsed laser. The quantum efficiencies (QE) of the dots were measured and compared to a large-area Mg film of the same thickness (20 nm). The enhancement factor f was calculated as the ratio of the two efficiencies for diameters ranging from 43.4 to 55.5 nm. Over this range of diameters, f varied more than an order of magnitude, with the highest enhancement of 38 observed for the 52.2 nm diameter dots (QE = 3.5 × 10−4). The difference in the lux–ampere characteristics of the large-area thin film and the 52.2 nm diameter dots are presented, and its relationship to the generalized n-photon photoelectron emission theory is discussed.
Fabrication of an adhesion-free transparent roll stamp for large area patterning using ultraviolet-type roller nanoimprint lithography
Authors: Park Hyun-Ha , Lim HyungJun , Lee SungHwi , Lee JaeJong
Published: November 2012

Roll nanoimprint technology has many advantages, including continuous fabrication of functional structures and fast pattern transfer on a large area. From the viewpoint of mass production, the hydrophobic characteristic of the nanopatterned roll stamp surface is important for minimizing defects that can be generated during the demolding process. In this study, polyvinylsilazane (PVSZ) was used for the top layer of a quartz roll stamp because the cured PVSZ is a nonsticky silicate with high mechanical properties (hardness of 416 GPa and Young's modulus of 3.27 GPa). In addition, PVSZ has good characteristics: ultraviolet curability at room temperature, high optical transparency, and excellent release properties after the hydrolysis process.Furthermore, the cured PVSZ layer after the hydrolysis process does not require any additional surface modification and can be used as an ideal mold with a low adhesion force for roll nanoimprint lithographic applications.
Fractional lower order moment based adaptive algorithms for active noise control of impulsive noise sources
Authors: Tahir Akhtar Muhammad
Published: November 2012

This letter deals with active noise control (ANC) for impulsive noise sources being modeled using non-Gaussian stable process. The filtered-x least mean square algorithm is based on minimization of the variance of the error signal and becomes unstable for impulsive noise. The filtered-x least mean p-power algorithm—based on minimizing the fractional lower order moment—gives a robust performance for impulsive ANC; however, its convergence speed is very slow. This letter proposes modifying and employing a generalized normalized LMP algorithm for impulsive ANC. Extensive simulations are carried out which demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Kinetic Responses of β-Catenin Specify the Sites of Wnt Control
Authors: Hernández Ana R. , Klein Allon M. , Kirschner Marc W.
Published: November 2012

Dissecting Wnt Signaling

The Wnt signaling pathway plays a key role in regulating a broad range of functions from development to cancer. But a precise understanding of how Wnt proteins act through their receptors (Frizzled proteins) has been elusive. By paring the system down to its core reactions and performing kinetic analysis in cultured cells,

Hernández
et al.

(p.
1337
, published online 8 November) were able to deduce the mechanism of Wnt action without invoking any previous assumptions. Such quantitative analysis of mass balance may offer a way to identify essential control points in other complicated signaling systems, and thus help define targets for therapeutic intervention.
Genome Sequence of the Aerobic Bacterium Bacillus sp. Strain FJAT-13831
Authors: Liu Guohong , Liu Bo , Lin Naiquan , Tang Weiqi , Tang Jianyang , Lin Yingzhi
Published: November 2012

Bacillus
sp. strain FJAT-13831 was isolated from the no. 1 pit soil of Emperor Qin's Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an City, People's Republic of China. The isolate showed a close relationship to the
Bacillus cereus
group. The draft genome sequence of
Bacillus
sp. FJAT-13831 was 4,425,198 bp in size and consisted of 5,567 genes (protein-coding sequences [CDS]) with an average length of 782 bp and a G+C value of 36.36%.
Draft Genome Sequence of Brevibacillus brevis Strain X23, a Biocontrol Agent against Bacterial Wilt
Authors: Chen Wu , Wang Yunsheng , Li Dingjun , Li Lin , Xiao Qiming , Zhou Qingming
Published: November 2012

Brevibacillus brevis
X23 is an appropriate biocontrol agent against bacterial wilt caused by
Ralstonia solanacearum
. We report herein the draft genome sequence (6,566,879 bp) and a circular plasmid (6,600 bp) of
B. brevis
X23, data which may be helpful for mining the antagonistic activity against
R. solanacearum
.
Draft Genome Sequence for Pseudomonas aeruginosa Strain PAO579, a Mucoid Derivative of PAO381
Authors: Withers T. Ryan , Johnson Shannon L. , Yu Hongwei D.
Published: November 2012

Pseudomonas aeruginosa
is an opportunistic pathogen that establishes a chronic lung infection in individuals afflicted with cystic fibrosis. Here, we announce the draft genome of
P. aeruginosa
strain PAO579, an alginate-overproducing derivative of strain PAO381.
Draft Genome Sequence of Pantoea sp. Strain A4, a Rafflesia-Associated Bacterium That Produces
N
-Acylhomoserine Lactones as Quorum-Sensing Molecules
Authors: Hong Kar-Wai , Gan Han Ming , Low Siew-Moon , Lee Patrick Kok Yuen , Chong Yee-Meng , Yin Wai-Fong , Chan Kok-Gan
Published: November 2012

Pantoea
sp. strain A4 is a Gram-negative bacterium isolated from the
Rafflesia
flower. We present here, for the first time, the genome sequence of
Rafflesia
-associated
Pantoea
sp. strain A4, which exhibited quorum-sensing activity.
Insights from the Genome Sequence of Quorum-Quenching Staphylococcus sp. Strain AL1, Isolated from Traditional Chinese Soy Sauce Brine Fermentation
Authors: Chong Teik-Min , Tung Hun-Jiat , Yin Wai-Fong , Chan Kok-Gan
Published: November 2012

We report the draft genome sequence of
Staphylococcus
sp. strain AL1, which degrades quorum-sensing molecules (namely,
N
-acyl homoserine lactones). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first documentation that reports the whole genome sequence and quorum-quenching activity of
Staphylococcus
sp. strain AL1.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Cyanide-Utilizing Bacterium Pseudomonas fluorescens Strain NCIMB 11764
Authors: Vilo Claudia A. , Benedik Michael J. , Kunz Daniel A. , Dong Qunfeng
Published: November 2012

We report here the 6.97-Mb draft genome sequence of
Pseudomonas fluorescens
strain NCIMB 11764, which is capable of growth on cyanide as the sole nitrogen source. The draft genome sequence allowed the discovery of several genes implicated in enzymatic cyanide turnover and provided additional information contributing to a better understanding of this organism's unique cyanotrophic ability. This is the first sequenced genome of a cyanide-assimilating bacterium.
Genome Sequence of Staphylococcus epidermidis Strain AU12-03, Isolated from an Intravascular Catheter
Authors: Zhang Li , Morrison Mark , Ó Cuív Páraic , Evans Paul , Rickard Claire M.
Published: November 2012

In recent years,
Staphylococcus epidermidis
has become a major nosocomial pathogen and the most common cause of intravascular catheter-related bacteremia, which can increase morbidity and mortality and significantly affect patient recovery. We report a draft genome sequence of
Staphylococcus epidermidis
AU12-03, isolated from an intravascular catheter tip.
Genome Sequence of Janibacter hoylei MTCC8307, Isolated from the Stratospheric Air
Authors: Pawar S. P. , Dhotre D. P. , Shetty S. A. , Chowdhury S. P. , Chaudhari B. L. , Shouche Y. S.
Published: November 2012

Janibacter hoylei
MTCC8307 was isolated from stratospheric air at an altitude of 41.4 km over Hyderabad, India. Here, we present the draft genome of
Janibacter hoylei
MTCC8307, which contains 3,139,099 bp with a G+C content of 72.8 mol%, 2,972 protein-coding genes, and 57 structural RNAs.
Draft Genome Sequence of Cecembia lonarensis Strain LW9
T
, Isolated from Lonar Lake, a Haloalkaline Lake in India
Authors: Shivaji S. , Ara Sreenivas , Singh Aditya , Pinnaka Anil Kumar
Published: November 2012

The draft genome sequence (4.84 Mb) of
Cecembia lonarensis
strain LW9
T
, isolated from a water sample (4.5-m depth) from Lonar Lake, a meteorite-created haloalkaline lake in India, is reported. The enzymes produced by these microorganisms need to be stable under alkaline conditions prevailing in its habitat. Such enzymes would be of immense importance for enzymatic processes operating at high pH.
Genome Sequence of Staphylococcus arlettae Strain CVD059, Isolated from the Blood of a Cardiovascular Disease Patient
Authors: Dinakaran Vasudevan , Shankar Manoharan , Jayashree Sathyanarayanan , Rathinavel Andiappan , Gunasekaran Paramasamy , Rajendhran Jeyaprakash
Published: November 2012

We have isolated a
Staphylococcus arlettae
strain, strain CVD059, from the blood of a rheumatic mitral stenosis patient. Here, we report the genome sequence and potential virulence factors of this clinical isolate. The draft genome of
S. arlettae
CVD059 is 2,565,675 bp long with a G+C content of 33.5%.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Naphthalene-Degrading Bacterium Pseudomonas stutzeri AN10 (CCUG 29243)
Authors: Brunet-Galmés Isabel , Busquets Antonio , Peña Arantxa , Gomila Margarita , Nogales Balbina , García-Valdés Elena , Lalucat Jorge , Bennasar Antonio , Bosch Rafael
Published: November 2012

Pseudomonas stutzeri
AN10 (CCUG 29243) can be considered a model strain for aerobic naphthalene degradation. We report the complete genome sequence of this bacterium. Its 4.71-Mb chromosome provides insights into other biodegradative capabilities of strain AN10 (i.e., benzoate catabolism) and suggests a high number of horizontal gene transfer events.
Genome Sequence of “Candidatus Microthrix parvicella” Bio17-1, a Long-Chain-Fatty-Acid-Accumulating Filamentous Actinobacterium from a Biological Wastewater Treatment Plant
Authors: Muller Emilie E. L. , Pinel Nicolás , Gillece John D. , Schupp James M. , Price Lance B. , Engelthaler David M. , Levantesi Caterina , Tandoi Valter , Luong Khai , Baliga Nitin S. , Korlach Jonas , Keim Paul S. , Wilmes Paul
Published: November 2012

“
Candidatus
Microthrix” bacteria are deeply branching filamentous actinobacteria which occur at the water-air interface of biological wastewater treatment plants, where they are often responsible for foaming and bulking. Here, we report the first draft genome sequence of a strain from this genus: “
Candidatus
Microthrix parvicella” strain Bio17-1.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Novel Enteric Bacterium Galloisinimonas intestini B14
T
KCTC 32180, Isolated from the Gut of a Galloisiana Species (Notoptera: Grylloblattidae) Fossil Insect
Authors: Park Doo-Sang , Bae Kyung Sook , Kim Hyangmi , Shin Ki-Sun , Choi Sang-Haeng , Kim Dae-Soo , Kim Byung-Woo , Oh Hyun-Woo
Published: November 2012

We report the 3.74-Mb genome sequence of
Galloisinimonas intestini
B14
T
, isolated from the gut of one of the world's rarest insect species,
Galloisiana
sp., collected at a Mosan cave, Moonkyung, Gyungsangbook-do, South Korea. Strain B14
T
is a novel genus candidate of the family
Enterobacteriaceae
.
Complete Genome Sequence of Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis Cp31, Isolated from an Egyptian Buffalo
Authors: Silva Artur , Ramos Rommel Thiago Jucá , Ribeiro Carneiro Adriana , Cybelle Pinto Anne , de Castro Soares Siomar , Rodrigues Santos Anderson , Silva Almeida Sintia , Guimarães Luis Carlos , Figueira Aburjaile Flávia , Vieira Barbosa Eudes Guilherme , Alves Dorella Fernanda , Souza Rocha Flávia , Souza Lopes Thiago , Kawasaki Regiane , Gomes Sá Pablo , da Rocha Coimbra Nilson Antônio , Teixeira Cerdeira Louise , Silvanira Barbosa Maria , Cruz Schneider Maria Paula , Miyoshi Anderson , Selim Salah Abdel Karim , Moawad Mohamed Salah , Azevedo Vasco
Published: November 2012

Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis
is of major veterinary importance because it affects many animal species, causing economically significant livestock diseases and losses. Therefore, the genomic sequencing of various lines of this organism, isolated from different hosts, will aid in the development of diagnostic methods and new prevention and treatment strategies and improve our knowledge of the biology of this microorganism. In this study, we present the genome of
C. pseudotuberculosis
Cp31, isolated from a buffalo in Egypt.
Complete Genome Sequence of Streptococcus agalactiae GD201008-001, Isolated in China from Tilapia with Meningoencephalitis
Authors: Liu Guangjin , Zhang Wei , Lu Chengping
Published: November 2012

This work describes a whole-genome sequence of
Streptococcus agalactiae
strain GD201008-001, a pathogen causing meningoencephalitis in cultural tilapia in China. The genome sequence provides opportunities to understand the piscine GBS pathogenicity and its genetic basis associated with host tropism.
Complete Genome Sequence of “Candidatus Portiera aleyrodidarum” BT-QVLC, an Obligate Symbiont That Supplies Amino Acids and Carotenoids to Bemisia tabaci
Authors: Santos-Garcia Diego , Farnier Pierre-Antoine , Beitia Francisco , Zchori-Fein Einat , Vavre Fabrice , Mouton Laurence , Moya Andrés , Latorre Amparo , Silva Francisco J.
Published: November 2012

The genome of “
Candidatus
Portiera aleyrodidarum,” the primary endosymbiont of the whitefly
Bemisia tabaci
(Mediterranean species), is reported. It presents a reduced genome (357 kb) encoding the capability to synthetize, or participate in the synthesis of, several amino acids and carotenoids, being the first insect endosymbiont capable of supplying carotenoids.
Draft Genome Sequence of Salimicrobium sp. Strain MJ3, Isolated from Myulchi-Jeot, Korean Fermented Seafood
Authors: Lee Se Hee , Jung Ji Young , Jeon Che Ok
Published: November 2012

Salimicrobium
sp. strain MJ3 was isolated from myulchi-jeot, traditional fermented seafood made from anchovy in South Korea. Here we announce the draft genome sequence of
Salimicrobium
sp. MJ3 with 2,717,782 bp, which consists of 45 contigs (>500 bp in size), and provide a description of their annotation.
Genome Sequence of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia S028, an Isolate Harboring the AmpR-L2 Resistance Module
Authors: Song Shiping , Yuan Xitong , Liu Shiwei , Zhang Ning , Wang Yufei , Ke Yuehua , Xu Jie , Huang Liuyu , Chen Zeliang , Li Yan
Published: November 2012

Multidrug-resistant
Stenotrophomonas maltophilia
has emerged as an important cause of nosocomial infections, which is attributable mainly to the production of diverse β-lactamases by
S. maltophilia
. The L2 β-lactamase mediated by the AmpR-L2 module is the most represented lactamase. Here, we announce the genome sequence of S028, an isolate harboring the AmpR-L2 module.
Genome Sequences of the Primary Endosymbiont “Candidatus Portiera aleyrodidarum” in the Whitefly Bemisia tabaci B and Q Biotypes
Authors: Jiang Zi-Feng , Xia Fangfang , Johnson Kipp W. , Bartom Elizabeth , Tuteja Jigyasa H. , Stevens Rick , Grossman Robert L. , Brumin Marina , White Kevin P. , Ghanim Murad
Published: November 2012

“
Candidatus
Portiera aleyrodidarum” is the obligate primary endosymbiotic bacterium of whiteflies, including the sweet potato whitefly
Bemisia tabaci
, and provides essential nutrients to its host. Here we report two complete genome sequences of this bacterium from the B and Q biotypes of
B. tabaci
.
Complete Genome Sequence of Brucella canis Strain 118, a Strain Isolated from Canine
Authors: Gao Guangjun , Li Jing , Li Tiefeng , Zhang Zhengfang , Wang Liping , Yuan Xitong , Wang Yufei , Xu Jie , Ke Yuehua , Huang Liuyu , Wang Dali , Chen Zeliang , Xu Xingran
Published: November 2012

Brucella canisinfects several species of animals, and canine is the preferred host. Genome sequences of strains from different hosts are valuable for comparative analysis of host adaptation and microevolution. Here, we report the genome sequence ofBrucella canisstrain 118, a strain isolated from canine.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Thermophilic Bacterium Anoxybacillus kamchatkensis G10
Authors: Lee Sang-Jae , Lee Yong-Jik , Ryu Naeun , Park Seulki , Jeong Haeyoung , Lee Sang Jun , Kim Byoung-Chan , Lee Dong-Woo , Lee Han-Seung
Published: November 2012

Anoxybacillus kamchatkensis
G10 is a spore-forming thermophilic bacterium isolated from a hot spring in Indonesia. Here, we report the draft genome sequence of
A. kamchatkensis
G10 that may reveal insights into aerobic/anaerobic metabolisms and carbon utilization in moderate thermophiles.
A 20-year-old female with Hirayama disease complicated with dysplasia of the cervical vertebrae and degeneration of intervertebral discs
Authors: Hashimoto Masaya , Yoshioka Masayuki , Sakimoto Yoshihiro , Suzuki Masahiko
Published: November 2012

A 20-year-old female patient was presented with a 1-year history of progressive weakness of the left hand. Examination on admission showed atrophy of the muscles of the left forearm, cold paralysis and minipolymyoclonus. MR images of the cervical cord showed anterior transfer of the cervical cord on anterior flexion and cervical cord compression at the site of cervical kyphosis, confirming the diagnosis of Hirayama disease. Many features of the present case are unusual: the patient is a female (who are rarely afflicted by this disease), with cervical kyphosis and a history of exercise involving cervical vertebral loading, suggesting a potential involvement of the latter two factors in the disease onset. The findings suggest that cervical vertebral dysplasia and intervertebral disc degeneration may influence cervical kyphosis, and be involved in the onset of Hirayama disease.
Autologous adipose-tissue derived regenerative cells for the treatment of complex cryptoglandular fistula-in-ano: a report of three cases
Authors: Borowski David W , Gill Talvinder S , Agarwal Anil K , Bhaskar Pudhupalayam
Published: November 2012

The treatment of complex fistulae-in-ano is challenging and often includes a number of operations due to high rates of recurrence. We report the successful treatment of three consecutive patients with long-standing cryptoglandular fistula-in-ano with a novel combination of mucosal advancement flap and adipose-tissue derived regenerative cells (ADRCs) from the stromal vascular fraction (SVF) obtained from a simple lipoaspiration procedure, using Celution technology. There was no operative morbidity; one patient who had a colostomy for faecal diversion has since undergone restoration of bowel continuity. All thee fistulae remain healed at 2–3-year follow-up. Lipofilling of cryptoglandular fistulae-in-ano with ADRC-enhanced lipofilling appears feasible and safe, and may add to the range of procedures that can be used to treat this difficult problem.
Stroke and myocardial infarction: a terrible association
Authors: Bacci Marcelo Rodrigues , Santos Janaina Aparecida Boide
Published: November 2012

In the USA coronary heart diseases and cerebral vascular accidents together are the major causes of death regardless of race or sex. More specifically, the acute myocardial infarction and the encephalic vascular accident, as final events of atherosclerosis, correspond to a large part of death cases. Such cases could be potentially prevented with a proper follow-up and the identification of the risk factors. We present a case of a 65-year-old black man, diabetic and hypertensive, with ischaemic stroke diagnosis that progressed to acute ST elevation myocardial infarction. Thrombolysis or platelets antiaggregation were not possible due to the fact that the patient was in the acute phase of his ischaemic stroke. This case shows the association of the two major causes of death in this country, stroke and myocardial infarction, and the challenge for their treatment.
Multiple spontaneous enterocutaneous fistulae on back: a rare presentation of colonic malignancy
Authors: Kumar Awanish , Pahwa Harvinder , Srivastava Rohit , Kumar Ravi
Published: November 2012

We came across a case presenting with complaint of multiple fistulae present on back and lateral part of abdominal wall discharging faecal matter. Investigations revealed a fistulous tract arising from posterior wall of ascending colon. The patient did not respond to conservative management and therefore was subjected to exploratory laparotomy after thorough investigations. Peroperatively, an ileocaecal mass was found along with a fistulous tract which was arising from the posterior wall of ascending colon and communicating with the skin. A right haemicolectomy was performed followed by ileo-transverse anastomosis. Postoperative recovery was uneventful. The histopathology report came out to be adenocarcinoma of colon.
Tension pneumothorax accompanied by type A aortic dissection
Authors: Hifumi Toru , Kiriu Nobuaki , Inoue Junichi , Koido Yuichi
Published: November 2012

A 51-year-old man was brought to the emergency room because of a sudden onset of severe dysponea. On presentation, his blood pressure was 94/55 mm Hg. Oxygen saturation was 86% while he was receiving 10 l/min oxygen through a non-rebreather mask. On physical examination, no jugular venous distention was noted, but breath sounds over the left lung were diminished. A bedside chest radiograph showed left tension pneumothorax, for which urgent needle decompression followed by chest thoracostomy was performed. Ventricular tachycardia developed, but a biphasic shock at 120 J immediately restored normal sinus rhythm. His vital signs, however, did not improve. A CT scan of the chest showed type A aortic dissection with bullae in the upper lobe of the left lung. He had an emergency operation for distal aortic arch displacement and was discharged on the 37th day of hospitalisation.
Salmonellosis as a differential diagnosis
Authors: Magill Stephen , Koh Hoey C , Renwick Andrew , Vella Mark
Published: November 2012

With a low incidence ofSalmonellainfection, salmonellosis is an uncommon problem in Scotland. It occurs in both immune-compromised and immune-competent patients. We present two cases of salmonellosis in immune-competent patients who had had a history of gastroenteritis. Diagnosis was delayed in one patient; however, both patients received appropriate treatment and made good recovery following their respective illnesses. Apart from acting as a reminder to consider salmonellosis as a differential diagnosis when managing patients with infective process, the cases also highlight the importance of concise history taking, and the importance of cultures-and-sensitivities in managing infectious cases.
Incidentally detected nasal foreign body on routine dental radiography
Authors: Mallikarjuna Rachappa , Nalawade Triveni
Published: November 2012

A nasal foreign body was discovered on routine radiographic examination of a 7-year-old girl following traumatic injury to permanent maxillary central incisors. The mother and the patient were unaware of the object's presence and the child had no nasal symptoms. The child was referred to an ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgeon to have the object assessed and removed. This was accomplished successfully without sequelae on an outpatient basis. This article highlights the role of a dentist in the proper detection and diagnosis, prompt referral for its management and reduction in complications related to foreign bodies.
Copeptin in acute chest pain: identification of acute coronary syndrome and obstructive coronary artery disease on coronary CT angiography
Authors: Dedic Admir , ten Kate Gert-Jan , Rood Pleunie P M , Galema Tjebbe W , Ouhlous Mohamed , Moelker Adriaan , de Feyter Pim J , de Rijke Yolanda B , Nieman Koen
Published: November 2012

Objective

To determine the diagnostic accuracy of copeptin in patients with suspected acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and its correlation with obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) on coronary CT angiography (CTA).

Methods

Copeptin was measured at arrival in 65 consecutive patients (56±10 years, 45 men) suspected of ACS and no indication for immediate invasive angiography. All patients underwent coronary CTA without disclosure of the results to the treating physician, and outcomes were classified as obstructive CAD (>50% stenosis) or no obstructive CAD (≤50%) in one or more vessel.

Results

The final diagnosis of ACS was established in 10 (15%) patients, 6 myocardial infarctions and 4 unstable angina pectoris. Coronary CTA detected obstructive CAD in all patients with ACS and in 10 (15%) patients with no ACS. Copeptin concentrations were higher in patients with ACS (median 7.42 pmol/l (IQR 3.71–18.72)) vs patients with no ACS (3.40 pmol/l (1.13–6.27), p=0.02). Copeptin was not higher in patients with obstructive CAD on coronary CTA (4.87 pmol/l (2.90–8.51) vs 3.60 pmol/l (1.21–6.23), p=0.20) compared with patients with no obstructive CAD.

Conclusions

Copeptin seems to be elevated in patients with ACS while there is no strong correlation with obstructive coronary disease on CTA.
Determinants of patient satisfaction in an Australian emergency department fast-track setting
Authors: Dinh Michael M , Enright Nicholas , Walker Andrew , Parameswaran Ahilan , Chu Matthew
Published: November 2012

Objectives

To describe the relationship between waiting time and patient satisfaction, and to determine predictors of overall care rating in an emergency department (ED) fast-track setting.

Methods

A convenience sample of patients triaged to a fast-track unit were surveyed. Patient satisfaction was scored using a validated survey instrument, as well as a single overall care rating (poor to excellent). Median satisfaction scores were compared between each incremental hour of waiting time. Bivariate analysis was conducted between those who waited 1 h or less, and those who waited longer. Ordered logistic regression was used to determine predictors of improved overall care rating.

Results

236 patients completed surveys (response rate of 74%). Of these, 84% rated their care as either very good or excellent. There was a linear decrease in median satisfaction scores for each incremental hour of waiting time associated with half the odds of higher overall care rating after adjusting for presenting problem type, triage category, and treating clinician type (OR 0.53 95% CI 0.37 to 0.75 p<0.001). English language (OR 2.43 95% CI 1.33 to 4.42 p=0.004) and initial consultation by a nurse practitioner (NP) (OR 1.81 95% CI 1.03 to 3.31 p=0.038) were also found to be significant predictors of improved overall care rating.

Conclusions

Waiting time was found to be highly predictive of patient satisfaction in an emergency fast-track unit with English language and NPs also associated with improved overall care rating. Future measures to improve patient satisfaction in fast-track units should focus on these factors.
Influence of social networking websites on medical school and residency selection process
Authors: Schulman Carl I , Kuchkarian Fernanda M , Withum Kelly F , Boecker Felix S , Graygo Jill M
Published: November 2012

Background

Social networking (SN) has become ubiquitous in modern culture. The potential consequences of revealing personal information through SN websites are not fully understood.

Objective

To assess familiarity with, usage of, and attitudes towards, SN websites by admissions offices at US medical schools and residency programmes.

Methods

A 26-question survey was distributed in autumn 2009 to 130 US medical school admissions officers and 4926 residency programme directors accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education.

Results

A total of 600 surveys were completed, with 46 (8%) respondents who self-identified as reviewing only medical school applications, 511 (85%) who reported reviewing residency programme applications and 43 (7%) who reported reviewing both. 90/600 (15%) medical schools or programmes maintain profiles on SN websites and 381/600 (64%) respondents reported being somewhat or very familiar with searching individual profiles on SN websites. While a minority of medical schools and residency programmes routinely use SN websites in the selection process (53/600; 9%), more than half of respondents felt that unprofessional information on applicants' SN websites could compromise their admission into medical school or residency (315/600; 53%).

Conclusions

SN websites will affect selection of medical students and residents. Formal guidelines for professional behaviour on SN websites might help applicants avoid unforeseen bias in the selection process.