bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The bypass of ZipA by overexpression of FtsN requires a previously unknown conserved FtsN motif essential for FtsA–FtsN interaction supporting a model in which FtsA monomers recruit late cell division proteins to the Z ring
Authors: Pichoff Sebastien , Du Shishen , Lutkenhaus Joe
Published: December 2014

Assembly of the divisome in Escherichia coli occurs in two temporally distinct steps. First, FtsZ filaments attached to the membrane through interaction with FtsA and ZipA coalesce into a Z ring at midcell. Then, additional proteins are recruited to the Z ring in a hierarchical manner to form a complete divisome, activated by the arrival of FtsN. Recently, we proposed that the interaction of FtsA with itself competes with its ability to recruit downstream division proteins (both require the IC domain of FtsA) and ZipA's essential function is to promote the formation of FtsA monomers. Here, we tested whether overexpression of a downstream division protein could make ZipA dispensable, presumably by shifting the FtsA equilibrium to monomers. Only overexpression of FtsN bypassed ZipA and a conserved motif in the cytoplasmic domain of FtsN was required for both the bypass and interaction with FtsA. Also, this cytoplasmic motif had to be linked to the periplasmic E domain of FtsN to bypass ZipA, indicating that linkage of FtsA to periplasmic components of the divisome through FtsN was essential under these conditions. These results are used to further elaborate our model for the role of FtsA in recruiting downstream division proteins.
IDH2 mutation in gliomas including novel mutation
Authors: Koh Jaemoon , Cho Hwajin , Kim Hannah , Kim Seong Ik , Yun Sumi , Park Chul‐Kee , Lee Se‐Hoon , Choi Seung Hong , Park Sung‐Hye
Published: December 2014

Glioblastomas (GBMs) are the most aggressive type of primary brain tumors and provide a dismal prognosis. Thus far, several key genes have been identified in GBMs as prognostic and therapeutic targets. Mutations in two isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) genes, IDH1 and IDH2, commonly occur in low‐grade gliomas and secondary high‐grade gliomas, but are rare in primary GBMs. These mutations alter the catalytic activity of IDH proteins, promoting gliomagenesis. Gliomas with IDH1 or IDH2 mutation have better outcomes than do gliomas with wild‐type IDH. The hot spots of IDH1 mutations (R132) and IDH2 mutations (R140 and R172) are well known and are considered as a possible biochemical explanation for the differing clinical characteristics of primary and secondary GBMs. We sought to find the incidence of IDH2 mutation and the characteristics of the gliomas with IDH2 mutation. Among 134 gliomas, which were operated in our hospital consecutively, we studied IDH1 and IDH2 mutations by Sanger sequencing and IDH2 mutation was identified in seven cases (5.2%, four oligodendrogliomas and three GBMs). IDH2 mutation was found in 3.3% of GBMs (3/90 cases) and 9.0% (4/44) of grades II to III gliomas. Here, we report the clinicopathological characteristics of the gliomas with IDH2 mutations including two cases of primary GBM carrying a novel missense IDH2 mutation (c. 484C>T, p. P162S).
Intermediate school's trip to India: Preparing for competence
Authors: Andrews Robyn
Published: December 2014

In November 2010, students from a Palmerston North intermediate school embarked on a 2‐week excursion to India. Qualitative research was carried out before, during and after the trip. Results discussed in this article focus primarily on the students' account of their trip, especially their perceived cultural competence and their explanation for it. Accounts of their competence are also offered by the parents and teachers, for example, they especially valued the students' extensive school‐based preparation. Insights gained from the experiences of this trip may be applied to other, including older, cohorts of students embarking on overseas school field trips.
Effectiveness of weight loss interventions – is there a difference between men and women: a systematic review
Authors: Williams R. L. , Wood L. G. , Collins C. E. , Callister R.
Published: December 2014

Effective strategies are required to reduce the prevalence of overweight and obesity; however, the effectiveness of current weight loss programmes is variable. One contributing factor may be the difference in weight loss success between men and women. A systematic review was conducted to determine whether the effectiveness of weight loss interventions differs between men and women. Randomized controlled trials published up until March 2014 were included. Effect sizes (Hedges' g) were used to examine the difference in weight outcomes between men and women. A total of 58 studies met the eligibility criteria with 49 studies of higher quality included in the final data synthesis. Eleven studies that directly compared weight loss in men and women reported a significant sex difference. Ten of these reported that men lost more weight than women; however, women also lost a significant amount of weight. Analysis of effect sizes found small differences in weight loss favouring men for both diet (g = 0.489) and diet plus exercise (g = 0.240) interventions. There is little evidence from this review to indicate that men and women should adopt different weight loss strategies. Current evidence supports moderate energy restriction in combination with exercise for weight loss in both men and women.
Incidence of Dementia in Relation to Genetic Variants at PITX2, ZFHX3, and ApoE ε4 in Atrial Fibrillation Patients
Authors: ROLLO JEFFREY , KNIGHT STACEY , MAY HEIDI T. , ANDERSON JEFFREY L. , MUHLESTEIN JOSEPH B. , BUNCH T. JARED , CARLQUIST JOHN
Published: December 2014

Introduction

Mechanisms underlying atrial fibrillation (AF) and dementia are unknown. Some genetic risk factors convey risk for AF and cerebral ischemic events. These markers may identify AF patients at risk for dementia either directly or through a gene‐gene interaction with the ApoE ε4 variant, a known marker of dementia risk.

Methods

Caucasian patients with AF and a subsequent dementia diagnosis (n = 112) were matched 1:2 on sex, AF onset age, and follow‐up period to AF patients without dementia. AF patients with dementia and AF patients without dementia were matched 1:1 on sex and age at dementia diagnosis (n = 112). Genotyping employed Taqman real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Multivariable conditional logistic regression was used to examine associations between AF/dementia groups and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), as well as gene‐gene interactions.

Results

In dementia patients, there was an association between the PITX2 loci and AF (rs2634073: odds ratio [OR] = 2.11; P = 0.025 and rs2200733: OR = 2.27; P = 0.029). In patients with AF, there was an association between PITX2 loci, rs2200733, and dementia (OR = 2.15, P = 0.008). There was no association between ApoE ε4 allele and AF in patients with dementia, although confirmation of the association between the carriage of ApoE ε4 allele and dementia was found (OR = 1.79; P = 0.026) in patients with AF. There were no significant interactions between ApoE ε4 allele and both the PITX2 loci and ZFHX3.

Conclusions

These findings support prior studies of ApoE risk of noncerebral vascular accident‐related dementia/Alzheimer's risk in the Caucasians and provide support to suggest an association between PITX2‐related SNPs and dementia, which may in part be attributed to silent cerebral ischemic events, a hypothesis deserving further testing.
Second Generation of Cryoballoons Can Improve Efficiency of Cryoablation for Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: LIU JUN , KAUFMANN JAN , KRIATSELIS CHARALAMPOS , FLECK ECKART , GERDS‐LI JIN HONG
Published: December 2014

Background

We investigated whether the new second generation of cryoballoons can improve the efficiency and safety of cryoablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) during ablation and in terms of outcome.

Methods

Data of AF patients consecutively treated with a single 28‐mm cryoballoon were analyzed. Patients were divided into two groups: the G1 group was treated with the first‐generation cryoballoons (ArcticFront) and G2 with the second generation (ArcticFront Advance). Failure of cryoablation treatment was defined as detection of an episode of AF, atrial flutter, or atrial tachycardia lasting ≥30 seconds during 3‐month follow‐up. Left atrial diameter (LAD) was measured by transthoracic echocardiography before cryoablation.

Results

One hundred twenty‐five patients (group G1/G2: 57/68) were enrolled. Mean total time of the whole procedure, cryomapping, and cryoablation was shorter with G2 than with G1 (P < 0.05). No complication occurred with G1 whereas with G2 the complication rate was 8.8%. During mean 12 ± 4 months follow‐up, the overall success rate of cryoablation was 76.0% (95/125); it was higher with G2 (89.7% [61/68] vs 59.7% [34/57], P < 0.001). Patients in whom treatment failed had larger LAD (48 ± 8 mm vs 44 ± 6 mm, P = 0.002) than those in whom it succeeded. Type of cryoballoon (relative risk [RR] = 5.75 [2.16, 15.27], P < 0.0001) and LAD (RR = 0.90 [0.83, 0.97], P = 0.0043) were shown in multivariable analysis to be individually related to the difference in success rate.

Conclusion

Ablation for AF with the new generation of cryoballoons is associated with higher success rate of pulmonary vein isolation and better outcome. However, more complications occurred during the early stage of application of the G2 cryoballoon.
Virtual Reality Lead Extraction as a Method for Training New Physicians: A Pilot Study
Authors: MAYTIN MELANIE , DAILY THOMAS P. , CARILLO ROGER G.
Published: December 2014

Background

It is estimated that the demand for transvenous lead extraction (TLE) has reached an annual extraction rate of nearly 24,000 patients worldwide. Despite technologic advances, TLE still has the potential for significant morbidity and mortality. Complication rates with TLE directly parallel operator experience. However, obtaining adequate training during and postfellowship can be difficult. Given the potential for catastrophic complications and the steep learning curve (up to 300 cases) associated with this procedure, we sought to validate a virtual reality (VR) lead extraction simulator as an innovative training and evaluation tool for physicians new to TLE.

Methods

We randomized eight electrophysiology fellows to VR simulator versus conventional training. We compared procedural skill competency between the groups using simulator competency, tactile measurements, markers of proficiency and attitudes, and cognitive abilities battery.

Results

Practical skills and simulator complications differed significantly between the VR simulator and conventional training groups. The VR simulator group executed patient preparation and procedure performance better than the conventional group (P < 0.01). All four fellows randomized to conventional training experienced a simulator complication (two superior vena cava [SVC] tears, three right ventricle [RV] avulsions) versus one fellow in the VR simulator group (one SVC tear) (P = 0.02). Tactile measurements revealed a trend toward excess pushing versus pulling forces among the conventionally trained group. The time for lead removal was also significantly higher in the conventional training group (12.46 minutes vs 5.54 minutes, P = 0.02). There was no significant difference in baseline or posttraining cognitive ability.

Conclusions

We contend that the implementation of alternative training tools such as a VR simulation model will improve physician training and allow for an innovative pathway to assess the achievement of competency.
Grapevine species from varied native habitats exhibit differences in embolism formation/repair associated with leaf gas exchange and root pressure
Authors: KNIPFER THORSTEN , EUSTIS ASHLEY , BRODERSEN CRAIG , WALKER ANDREW M. , MCELRONE ANDREW J.
Published: December 2014

Drought induces xylem embolism formation, but grapevines can refill non‐functional vessels to restore transport capacity. It is unknown whether vulnerability to embolism formation and ability to repair differ among grapevine species. We analysed in vivo embolism formation and repair using x‐ray computed microtomography in three wild grapevine species from varied native habitats (Vitis riparia, V. arizonica, V. champinii) and related responses to measurements of leaf gas exchange and root pressure. Vulnerability to embolism formation was greatest in V. riparia, intermediate in V. arizonica and lowest in V. champinii. After re‐watering, embolism repair was rapid and pronounced in V. riparia and V. arizonica, but limited or negligible in V. champinii even after numerous days. Similarly, root pressure measured after re‐watering was positively correlated with drought stress severity for V. riparia and V. arizonica (species exhibiting embolism repair) but not for V. champinii. Drought‐induced reductions in transpiration were greatest for V. riparia and least in V. champinii. Recovery of transpiration after re‐watering was delayed for all species, but was greatest for V. champinii and most rapid in V. arizonica. These species exhibit varied responses to drought stress that involve maintenance/recovery of xylem transport capacity coordinated with root pressure and gas exchange responses.
Cooling water before panicle initiation increases chilling‐induced male sterility and disables chilling‐induced expression of genes encoding OsFKBP65 and heat shock proteins in rice spikelets
Authors: SUZUKI KENSAKU , AOKI NAOHIRO , MATSUMURA HISAKAZU , OKAMURA MASAKI , OHSUGI RYU , SHIMONO HIROYUKI
Published: December 2014

In rice (Oryza sativa L.), chilling‐induced male sterility increased when plants experienced low water temperature (Tw, 18 °C for 14 d) before panicle initiation. The number of mature pollen grains after chilling at the booting stage (12 °C for 5 d) was only 45% of total pollen grains in low‐Tw plants, whereas it was 71% in normal‐Tw plants (Tw not controlled; approximately 23 °C under air temperature of 26 °C/21 °C, day/night). Microarray and quantitative PCR analyses showed that many stress‐responsive genes (including OsFKBP65 and genes encoding the large heat shock protein OsHSP90.1, heat‐stress transcription factors and many small heat shock proteins) were strongly up‐regulated by chilling in normal‐Tw spikelets, but were unaffected or even down‐regulated by chilling in low‐Tw spikelets. OsAPX2 and genes encoding some other antioxidant enzymes were also significantly down‐regulated by low Tw in chilled spikelets. The levels of lipid peroxidation products (malondialdehyde equivalents) were significantly increased in low‐Tw spikelets by chilling. Ascorbate peroxidase activity in chilled spikelets was significantly lower in low‐Tw plants than in normal‐Tw plants. Our data suggest that an OsFKBP65‐related chilling response, which protects proteins from oxidative damage, is indispensable for chilling tolerance but is lost in low‐Tw spikelets.
Discussions of sexual health testing: Applying the theory of motivated information management
Authors: DILLOW MEGAN R. , LABELLE SARA
Published: December 2014

To investigate how individuals seek and disclose information related to testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in sexual relationships, this study utilizes the revised theory of motivated information management (TMIM; Afifi & Morse, 2009). As part of a longitudinal design, 199 participants completed questionnaires assessing TMIM constructs. The hypothesized model was supported for individuals as seekers and providers of information regarding STI testing behaviors, and efficacy emerged as a mediator of seekers' negative emotional response and indirect information seeking and of providers' outcome expectancies and indirect information provision. Findings from this investigation support the workings of the revised TMIM and illustrate the importance of efficacy in information management decisions regarding STI testing behaviors between sexual partners.
Usability testing of the Internet program: “Teens Taking Charge: Managing My Transplant Online”
Authors: Korus M. , Cruchley E. , Stinson J. N. , Gold A. , Anthony S. J.
Published: December 2014

Adolescents with SOT demonstrate high rates of medication non‐adherence and higher rates of graft loss compared to all other age groups. Self‐management interventions encompass information‐based material designed to achieve disease‐related learning and changes in the participant's knowledge and skill acquisition, while providing social support. These interventions have had some success in chronic disease populations by reducing symptoms and promoting self‐efficacy and empowerment. Using findings from a needs assessment, an Internet‐based self‐management program, Teens Taking Charge: Managing My Transplant Online, for youth with SOT was developed. This program contains information on transplant, self‐management and transition skills, and opportunities for peer support. The purpose of this study was to determine the usability and acceptability of the initial three modules (Medication and Vaccines; Diet after Transplant; and Living with a Transplant Organ) of the online program from the perspectives of youth with SOT. Participants were recruited from SOT clinics at a large pediatric tertiary care center in Canada. Three iterative cycles (seven patients per iteration) of usability testing took place to refine the Web site prototype. Study procedures involved participants finding items from a standardized list of features and talking aloud about issues they encountered, followed by a semi‐structured interview to generate feedback about what they liked and disliked about the program. All 21 patients (mean age = 14.9 yr) found the Web site content to be trustworthy, they liked the picture content, and they found the videos of peer experiences to be particularly helpful. Participants had some difficulties finding information within submodules and suggested a more simplistic design with easier navigation. This web‐based intervention is appealing to teenagers and may foster improved self‐management with their SOT. Nine additional teen and two parent modules are being developed, and the completed Web site will undergo usability testing. In the future, a randomized control trial will determine the feasibility and effectiveness of this online self‐management program on adherence, self‐efficacy, and transition skills.
Cementum proteins: role in cementogenesis, biomineralization, periodontium formation and regeneration
Authors: Arzate Higinio , Zeichner‐David Margarita , Mercado‐Celis Gabriela
Published: December 2014

Destruction of the periodontium is normally associated with periodontal disease, although many other factors, such as trauma, aging, infections, orthodontic tooth movement and systemic and genetic diseases, can contribute to this process. Strategies (such as guided tissue regeneration) have been developed to guide and control regeneration using bioresorbable membranes and bone grafts. Although effective to a certain point, these strategies have the problem that they are not predictable and do not completely restore the architecture of the original periodontium. To achieve complete repair and regeneration it is necessary to recapitulate the developmental process with complete formation of cementum, bone and periodontal ligament fibers. Detailed knowledge of the biology of cementum is key for understanding how the periodontium functions, identifying pathological issues and for developing successful therapies for repair and regeneration of damaged periodontal tissue. It is the purpose of this review to focus on the role of cementum and its specific components in the formation, repair and regeneration of the periodontium. As cementum is a matrix rich in growth factors that could influence the activities of various periodontal cell types, this review will examine the characteristics of cementum, its composition and the role of cementum components, especially the cementum protein‐1, during the process of cementogenesis, and their potential usefulness for regeneration of the periodontal structures in a predictable therapeutic manner.
Lasers in periodontal therapy
Authors: Passanezi Euloir , Damante Carla Andreotti , de Rezende Maria L. Rubo , Greghi Sebastião L. Aguiar
Published: December 2014

About 50 years ago, lasers started to be used in periodontal treatment following evidence that wounds produced in animals healed more quickly after being irradiated with low‐intensity lasers. Increased production of growth factors, stimulated mainly by red and infrared lasers, may participate in this process by influencing the behavior of various types of cells. High‐intensity lasers have been used as an alternative to nonsurgical periodontal therapy in root biomodification and to reduce dentin hypersensivity; low‐intensity lasers are frequently employed to improve tissue repair in regenerative procedures and in antimicrobial photodynamic therapy. Despite the abundance of promising data on the advantages of their use, there is still controversy regarding the real benefits of lasers and antimicrobial photodynamic therapy in periodontal and peri‐implant treatment. A huge variation in the parameters of laser application among studies makes comparisons very difficult. An overview of the current concepts and findings on lasers in periodontal therapy is presented with emphasis on data collected from Latin‐American researchers.
Mesenchymal stem cells from the oral cavity and their potential value in tissue engineering
Authors: Sanz Antonio R. , Carrión Flavio S. , Chaparro Alejandra P.
Published: December 2014

Periodontal disease is one of the most common conditions affecting humans, and current treatment strategies, which focus on the removal and long‐term control of dental plaque, are generally successful in eliminating active disease and promoting tissue repair. However, regeneration of the supporting structures of the tooth remains an elusive goal and a challenge. The formation of new bone and cementum with supportive periodontal ligament is the ultimate objective, but current regeneration therapies are incapable of achieving this in a predictable way. The regeneration of periodontal tissue requires a combination of fundamental events, such as appropriate level and sequencing of regulatory signals, the presence of progenitor cells, an extracellular matrix or carrier and an adequate blood supply. Based on tissue‐engineering concepts, the regeneration process may be modulated by manipulating the signaling pathways of regulatory molecules, the extracellular matrix or scaffold, or the cellular components. The identification of mesenchymal stem cells from bone marrow started a new era in regenerative medicine. Tissue engineering using mesenchymal stem cells became a therapeutic option with several advantages, including high‐quality regeneration of damaged tissues without the formation of fibrous tissue, minimal donor‐site morbidity compared with autografts and a low risk of autoimmune rejection and disease transmission. The aim of this review was to describe the main sources of mesenchymal stem cells from tissues in the oral cavity and the potential of these cells in regenerative therapy. Special attention is paid to gingival tissue‐derived mesenchymal stem cells because they represent the most accessible source of stem cells in the human mouth.
Effect of periodontal treatment on preterm birth rate: a systematic review of meta‐analyses
Authors: López Néstor J. , Uribe Sergio , Martinez Benjamín
Published: December 2014

Preterm birth is a major cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality in both developed and developing countries. Preterm birth is a highly complex syndrome that includes distinct clinical subtypes in which many different causes may be involved. The results of epidemiological, molecular, microbiological and animal‐model studies support a positive association between maternal periodontal disease and preterm birth. However, the results of intervention studies carried out to determine the effect of periodontal treatment on reducing the risk of preterm birth are controversial. This systematic review critically analyzes the methodological issues of meta‐analyses of the studies to determine the effect of periodontal treatment to reduce preterm birth. The quality of the individual randomized clinical trials selected is of highest relevance for a systematic review. This article describes the methodological features that should be identified a priori and assessed individually to determine the quality of a randomized controlled trial performed to evaluate the effect of periodontal treatment on pregnancy outcomes. The AMSTAR and the PRISMA checklist tools were used to assess the quality of the six meta‐analyses selected, and the bias domain of the Cochrane Collaboration's Tool was applied to evaluate each of the trials included in the meta‐analyses. In addition, the methodological characteristics of each clinical trial were assessed. The majority of the trials included in the meta‐analyses have significant methodological flaws that threaten their internal validity. The lack of effect of periodontal treatment on preterm birth rate concluded by four meta‐analyses, and the positive effect of treatment for reducing preterm birth risk concluded by the remaining two meta‐analyses are not based on consistent scientific evidence. Well‐conducted randomized controlled trials using rigorous methodology, including appropriate definition of the exposure, adequate control of confounders for preterm birth and application of effective periodontal interventions to eliminate periodontal infection, are needed to confirm the positive association between periodontal disease and preterm birth.
Risk–benefit analysis of antidepressant drug treatment in the elderly
Authors: Álamo Cecilio , López‐Muñoz Francisco , García‐García Pilar , García‐Ramos Silvia
Published: December 2014

Depression in the elderly is a significant health issue that has the potential to seriously affect physical and emotional well‐being. Therefore, the treatment of geriatric depression is necessary. Antidepressant treatment in older depressed patients is efficacious, but differences in the effectiveness of different classes of antidepressants have not been demonstrated. However, differences in tolerability profile are most recognizable in the elderly. With ageing, a series of changes occur in the elderly that modify both the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of antidepressants and may influence the efficacy, tolerability and safety of treatment in the elderly. Comorbidities require the use of other drugs, which increases the possibility of drug‐drug interactions. Given these aspects, individualized therapy for each elderly patient is needed to achieve acceptable risk–benefit ratio. Effective treatment of depression in the elderly, which may require combined pharmacological with psychosocial treatment, can decrease both morbidity and mortality; it also may lead to reduced demands on family members and on health‐care and social services.
Non‐literal language deficits in mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Cardoso Sandra , Silva Dina , Maroco João , de Mendonça Alexandre , Guerreiro Manuela
Published: December 2014

Background

Verbal language deteriorates in Alzheimer's disease, contributing to dramatic disturbances in the ability to communicate. The presence of language disturbances may be detected at earlier phases of the neurodegenerative process, like mild cognitive impairment (MCI). In daily verbal interactions, people mostly use literal language, but sometimes they employ non‐literal language, which requires listeners to interpret messages beyond the plain meaning of the words and can be quite demanding. In the present study, we tested the hypotheses that patients with MCI may have deficits in non‐literal language, and these deficits are more pronounced than deficits in literal language.

Methods

Participants were recruited in a private memory clinic and senior universities. General cognitive evaluation included a comprehensive neuropsychological battery, the Mini‐Mental State Examination, and the instrumental activities of daily living scale. Literal language was assessed with the semantic decision test, Token Test, and literal text comprehension test, and non‐literal language with the proverbs comprehension, idiomatic expressions and non‐literal text comprehension tests.

Results

Fifty‐two participants with MCI and 31 controls were recruited. Patients with MCI had lower scores in all complex language tests, both literal (Token Test, semantic decision and literal text) and non‐literal (proverbs, idiomatic expressions, and non‐literal text), than the controls; the difference in literal text score was marginally significant. As much as 69% of MCI participants had deficits (performance below 1.5 SD of the mean) on at least one of the complex language tasks. Deficits were more frequent on the proverbs comprehension and semantic decision tests, and the deficits on these tests did not significantly differ from that on the Token Test.

Conclusion

Patients with MCI are hindered in understanding complex language, both literal and non‐literal. In daily living, these complex language deficits could compromise effective verbal interactions with the others. Amelioration of these deficits should be an important intervention target as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation strategy for patients with cognitive decline.
Compounding diagnostic delays: a qualitative study of point‐of‐care testing in South Africa
Authors: Engel Nora , Davids Malika , Blankvoort Nadine , Pai Nitika Pant , Dheda Keertan , Pai Madhukar
Published: December 2014

Objectives

Successful point‐of‐care (POC) testing (completion of test‐and‐treat cycle in one patient encounter) has immense potential to reduce diagnostic and treatment delays, and improve patient and public health outcomes. We explored what tests are done and how in public/private, rural/urban hospitals and clinics in South Africa and whether they can ensure successful POC testing.

Methods

This qualitative research study examined POC testing across major diseases in Cape Town, Durban and Eastern Cape. We conducted 101 semi‐structured interviews and seven focus group discussions with doctors, nurses, community health workers, patients, laboratory technicians, policymakers, hospital managers and diagnostic manufacturers.

Results

In South Africa, diagnostics are characterised by a centralised system. Most tests conducted on the spot can be made to work successfully as POC tests. The majority of public/private clinics and smaller hospitals send samples via couriers to centralised laboratories and retrieve results the same way, via internet, fax or phone. The main challenge to POC testing lies in transporting samples and results, while delays risk patient loss from diagnostic/treatment pathways. Strategies to deal with associated delays create new problems, such as artificially prolonged turnaround times, strains on human resources and quality of testing, compounding additional diagnostic and treatment delays.

Conclusions

For POC testing to succeed, particular characteristics of diagnostic ecosystems and adaptations of professional practices to overcome associated challenges must be taken into account.
Trade, Migration and Integration – Evidence and Policy Implications
Authors: Hatzigeorgiou Andreas , Lodefalk Magnus
Published: December 2014

This paper takes as its point of departure the unique position recently adopted by Swedish policymakers emphasising migration as a tool to increase trade. We attempt to empirically scrutinise this position. Our results demonstrate that migrants stimulate exports, especially along the extensive product margin of trade and for differentiated products, but have no significant impact on imports. This finding suggests that for small open economies where numerous immigrants are refugees, the strategy of using migration to facilitate trade may only be effective with respect to exports. This paper also contributes to the literature on trade and migration by exploiting data on gender and age, which allow us to draw inferences on the underlying impact channels. We adopt an instrumental variable approach to address the endogeneity issue due to potential reverse causality. The pattern of results is consistent with the hypothesis that migration primarily reduces fixed trade costs resulting from information and trust friction across migrant host and source countries. Importantly, the results imply that policymakers may be able to promote trade by improving immigrants’ labour market integration instead of simply being restricted to promoting more liberal immigration policies, which is generally more controversial.
Brain glycogen decreases during prolonged exercise
Authors: Matsui Takashi , Soya Shingo , Okamoto Masahiro , Ichitani Yukio , Kawanaka Kentaro , Soya Hideaki
Published: December 2014

Non‐technical summary Energy sources for the brain include not only blood glucose, but also astrocytic glycogen, especially when the blood‐born glucose supply is short (e.g. hypoglycaemia). Although untested, it is hypothesized that during prolonged exercise that induces hypoglycaemia, the resultant hypoglycaemia may cause a decrease in brain glycogen. Here, we tested this hypothesis and provide evidence that brain glycogen decreases during prolonged exercise with hypoglycaemia. Furthermore, in the cortex, we show that the decrease in brain glycogen levels during prolonged exercise is associated with activation of monoamine metabolism, which could be a factor inducing central fatigue. Since the discovery of muscle glycogen depletion as a candidate of peripheral fatigue during prolonged exercise, this is the first study to our knowledge to show that brain glycogen can decrease with prolonged exercise. These findings may provide a clue towards understanding the mechanisms related to central fatigue.
Muscle microvascular blood flow responses in insulin resistance and ageing
Authors: Keske Michelle A. , Premilovac Dino , Bradley Eloise A. , Dwyer Renee M. , Richards Stephen M. , Rattigan Stephen
Published: December 2014

Insulin resistance plays a key role in the development of type 2 diabetes. Skeletal muscle is the major storage site for glucose following a meal and as such has a key role in maintenance of blood glucose concentrations. Insulin resistance is characterised by impaired insulin‐mediated glucose disposal in skeletal muscle. Multiple mechanisms can contribute to development of muscle insulin resistance and our research has demonstrated an important role for loss of microvascular function within skeletal muscle. We have shown that insulin can enhance blood flow to the microvasculature in muscle thus improving the access of glucose and insulin to the myocytes to augment glucose disposal. Obesity, insulin resistance and ageing are all associated with impaired microvascular responses to insulin in skeletal muscle. Impairments in insulin‐mediated microvascular perfusion in muscle can directly cause insulin resistance, and this event can occur early in the aetiology of this condition. Understanding the mechanisms involved in the loss of microvascular function in muscle has the potential to identify novel treatment strategies to prevent or delay progression of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
Extensional rheometry of magnetic dispersions
Authors: Galindo-Rosales F. J. , Segovia-Gutiérrez J. P. , Pinho F. T. , Alves M. A. , de Vicente J.
Published: December 2014

This work presents a technique and develops an apparatus that allows the application of homogeneous external magnetic fields (parallel or perpendicular to the deformation axis) to a fluid sample undergoing extensional flow kinematics while measuring the filament thinning using the commercial version of the capillary breakup extensional rheometer (Haake™ CaBER™ 1, Thermo Scientific). We also present innovative rheological measurements of several commercial ferrofluids (FFs) and one magnetorheological fluid (MRF) under uniaxial extensional flow. The experimental results demonstrate that FFs exhibit a Newtonian-like behavior in the absence of magnetic fields. When a magnetic field is applied perpendicular to the extensional flow, no significant effects are observed similar to shear experiments. However, when the external magnetic field is aligned with the extensional flow, the filament takes longer to break up but otherwise behaves as a Newtonian fluid. In the case of the MRF, due to the higher concentration of particles and larger particle size, the differences in the extensional behaviors are much more dramatic regardless of the orientation of the magnetic field compared to the case when no magnetic field is applied.
Molecular Characterization of the Full Muscovy Duck Parvovirus, Isolated in Guangxi, China
Authors: Zhao Hong , Xie Zhixun , Xie Liji , Deng Xianwen , Xie Zhiqin , Luo Sisi , Huang Li , Huang Jiaoling , Zeng Tingting
Published: December 2014

We report the complete genomic sequence of the full Muscovy duck parvovirus (MDPV) strain, designated GX2011-5, isolated from a Muscovy duck in Guangxi Province, China. The complete genomic sequence was 5,132 bp in length and contained two major open reading frames encoding a 1,844-nucleotide (nt) nonstructural protein and a 2,199-nt capsid protein. Comparison of the complete sequence of GX2011-5 with other published sequences of Muscovy duck parvovirus revealed that this strain exhibited 90.4% to 95.1% sequence homology. This report will advance our understanding of the epidemiology and molecular characteristics of MDPV in the Muscovy duck population in Guangxi, China.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Pseudoalteromonas
sp. Strain PLSV, an Ulvan-Degrading Bacterium
Authors: Kopel Moran , Helbert William , Henrissat Bernard , Doniger Tirza , Banin Ehud
Published: December 2014

We present the draft genome sequence of
Pseudoalteromonas
sp. strain PLSV, isolated from the feces of an
Aplysia
sea slug. The addition of the PLSV genome to the existing genomes of three other ulvan-degrading bacterial species will enhance our understanding of ulvan utilization.
Complete Genome Sequence of Nervous Necrosis Virus Isolated from Sevenband Grouper (
Epinephelus septemfasciatus
) in South Korea
Authors: Kim Jong-Oh , Kim Wi-Sik , Cho Jae-Kwon , Kim Kyong-Min , Son Maeng-Hyun , Oh Myung-Joo
Published: December 2014

The draft genome sequence of the nervous necrosis virus (NNV) SGYeosu08, isolated from sevenband grouper (
Epinephelus septemfasciatus
) in Yeosu, South Korea, was cloned and analyzed. The full-length RNA1 was a 3,103-nucleotide-encoding region of RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, and the RNA2 encoding a coat protein was 1,433 nucleotides in length. This genome sequence might be useful in the development of an accurate diagnostic tool.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Betaproteobacterial Endosymbiont Associated with the Fungus
Mortierella elongata
FMR23-6
Authors: Fujimura Reiko , Nishimura Ayumu , Ohshima Shoko , Sato Yoshinori , Nishizawa Tomoyasu , Oshima Kenshiro , Hattori Masahira , Narisawa Kazuhiko , Ohta Hiroyuki
Published: December 2014

The fungus
Mortierella elongata
FMR23-6 harbors an endobacterium inside its mycelium. Attempts to isolate the endobacterium from the fungus were not yet successful, but a highly purified bacterial fraction was prepared. Here, we report the draft genome sequence of the endobacterium.
Draft Genome Sequence of Bivalent Clostridium botulinum Strain IBCA10-7060, Encoding Botulinum Neurotoxin B and a New FA Mosaic Type
Authors: Gonzalez-Escalona Narjol , Thirunavukkarasu Nagarajan , Singh Ajay , Toro Magaly , Brown Eric W. , Zink Donald , Rummel Andreas , Sharma Shashi K.
Published: December 2014

Here we report the genome sequence of a
Clostridium botulinum
strain IBCA10-7060 producing botulinum neurotoxin serotype B and a new toxin serotype. Multilocus sequence typing analysis revealed that this strain belongs to a new sequence type, and whole-genome single nucleotide polymorphism analysis showed that this strain clustered with strains in lineage 2 from group I.
Complete Genome Sequence of Pluralibacter gergoviae FB2, an
N
-Acyl Homoserine Lactone-Degrading Strain Isolated from Packed Fish Paste
Authors: Chan Kok-Gan , Tee Kok Keng , Yin Wai-Fong , Tan Jia-Yi
Published: December 2014

Pluralibacter gergoviae
FB2, a bacterial strain isolated from packed food, has been found to exhibit quorum-quenching properties. Hence, we report the first, complete genome of
P. gergoviae
sequenced using the Pacific Biosciences single-molecule, real-time (SMRT) platform.
Full Genome Sequence of a Reassortant Human G9P[4] Rotavirus Strain
Authors: Lewis Jamie , Roy Sunando , Esona Mathew D. , Mijatovic-Rustempasic Slavica , Hardy Christine , Wang Yuhuan , Cortese Margaret , Bowen Michael D.
Published: December 2014

This is a report of the complete genomic sequence of a reassortant rotavirus group A G9-P[4]-I2-R2-C2-M2-A2-N2-T2-E6-H2 strain designated RVA/Human-wt/USA/ LB1562/2010/G9P[4].
Draft Genome Sequences of Streptococcus agalactiae Strains Isolated from Nile Tilapia (
Oreochromis niloticus
) Farms in Thailand
Authors: Kayansamruaj Pattanapon , Pirarat Nopadon , Kondo Hidehiro , Hirono Ikuo , Rodkhum Channarong
Published: December 2014

During 2009–2011, two clinical and one environmental strains of
Streptococcus agalactiae
were isolated from Nile tilapia (
Oreochromis niloticus
) farms in Thailand. Draft genome sequences of two clinical isolates comprise 2,048,343 and 2,105,006 bp, while environmental isolates comprise 2,097,115 bp, having 1,573 to 1,578 coding sequences, respectively.
Just a drop of cement: a case of cervical spine bone aneurysmal cyst successfully treated by percutaneous injection of a small amount of polymethyl-methacrylate cement
Authors: Fahed Robert , Clarençon Frédéric , Riouallon Guillaume , Cormier Evelyne , Bonaccorsi Raphael , Pascal-Mousselard Hugues , Chiras Jacques
Published: December 2014

Aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) is a benign hemorrhagic tumor, commonly revealed by local pain. The best treatment for this lesion is still controversial. We report the case of a patient with chronic neck pain revealing an ABC of the third cervical vertebra. After percutaneous injection of a small amount of polymethyl-methacrylate bone cement, the patient experienced significant clinical and radiological improvement.
Pseudozymaspp catheter-associated blood stream infection, an emerging pathogen and brief literature review
Authors: Siddiqui Wajid , Ahmed Yasir , Albrecht Helmut , Weissman Sharon
Published: December 2014

Pseudozymaspp are amorphic yeasts. They are commonly plant pathogens, but rarely cause invasive fungal disease in humans. Only three cases of central venous catheter (CVC)-associated blood stream infections due to this organism have been reported in the literature. Main underlying risk factors forPseudozymaspp infection are bowel surgery, CVC and total parenteral nutrition. We present a rare case ofPseudozymaspp catheter-associated blood stream infection that was successfully treated with antifungal therapy and removal of CVC. It is important to recognise and differentiate this species from other yeasts as it may require the use of amphotericin B or voriconazole instead of fluconazole, to which the organism is variably resistant.
Feasibility of overnight closed-loop therapy in young children with type 1 diabetes aged 3–6 years: comparison between diluted and standard insulin strength
Authors: Elleri Daniela , Allen Janet M , Tauschmann Martin , El-Khairi Ranna , Benitez-Aguirre Paul , Acerini Carlo L , Dunger David B , Hovorka Roman
Published: December 2014

Objective

To assess feasibility of overnight closed-loop therapy in young children with type 1 diabetes and contrast closed loop using diluted versus standard insulin strength.

Research design and methods

Eleven children (male 6; age range 3.75–6.96 years; glycated hemoglobin 60 (14) mmol/mol; body mass index SD score 1.0 (0.8); diabetes duration 2.2 (1.0) years, mean (SD); total daily dose 12.9 (10.6, 16.5) IU/day, median (IQR)) were studied at a clinical research facility on two occasions. In random order, participants received closed loop with diluted insulin aspart (CL_Dil; 20 IU/mL) or closed loop with standard aspart (CL_Std; 100 IU/mL) from 17:00 until 8:00 the following morning. Children consumed an evening meal at 17:00 (44 (12) gCHO) and an optional bedtime snack (6 (7) gCHO) identical on both occasions. Meal insulin boluses were calculated by standard pump bolus calculators. Basal rates on insulin pump were adjusted every 15 min as directed by a model-predictive-control algorithm informed by a real-time glucose sensor values.

Results

Mean plasma glucose was 122 (24) mg/dL during CL_Dil vs 122 (23) mg/dL during CL_Std (p=0.993). The time spent in the target glucose range 70–145 mg/dL was 83 (70, 100)% vs 72 (54, 81)% (p=0.328). Time above 145 mg/dL was 13 (0, 27)% vs 19 (10, 45)% (p=0.477) and time spent below 70 mg/dL was 0.0 (0.0, 1.4)% vs 1.4 (0.0, 11.6)% (p=0.161). One asymptomatic hypoglycemia below 63 mg/dL occurred in one participant during CL_Dil versus six episodes in five participants during CL_Std (p=0.09). Glucose variability measured by CV of plasma glucose tended to be reduced during CL_Dil (20% (13, 31) vs 32% (24, 42), p=0.075).

Conclusions

In this feasibility study, closed-loop therapy maintained good overnight glucose control with tendency towards reduced hypoglycemia and reduced glucose variability using diluted insulin.

Trial registration number

clinicaltrials.gov Identifier:NCT01557634.
Prediabetes, elevated iron and all-cause mortality: a cohort study
Authors: Mainous Arch G , Tanner Rebecca J , Coates Thomas D , Baker Richard
Published: December 2014

Objectives

Data have indicated low to non-existent increased mortality risk for individuals with prediabetes, but it is unclear if the risk is increased when the patient has elevated iron markers. Our purpose was to examine the mortality risk among adults with prediabetes in the context of coexisting elevated transferrin saturation (TS) or serum ferritin.

Setting

Data collected by the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1988–1994 (NHANES III) in the USA and by the National Center for Health Statistics for the National Death Index from 1988 to 2006.

Participants

Individuals age 40 and older who participated in the NHANES and provided a blood sample.

Primary outcome variable

Mortality was measured as all-cause mortality.

Results

Adjusted analyses show that prediabetes has a small increased mortality risk (HR=1.04; 95% CI 1.00 to 1.08). Persons who had prediabetes and elevated serum ferritin had an increased HR for death (HR=1.14; 95% CI 1.04 to 1.24) compared with those who had normal ferritin and normal glucose. Among persons with prediabetes who had elevated TS, they had an increased mortality risk (HR=1.88; 95% CI 1.06 to 3.30) compared with those with normal TS levels and normal glucose.

Conclusions

The mortality risk of prediabetes is low. However, among individuals who have coexisting elevated iron markers, particularly TS, the risk rises substantially.
Are you a SCEPTIC? SoCial mEdia Precision & uTility In Conferences
Authors: Roland Damian , May Natalie , Body Richard , Carley Simon , Lyttle Mark D
Published: December 2014

We analysed Twitter feeds at an emergency medicine scientific conference to determine the (1) accuracy of disseminated educational messages and the (2) use in providing rapid feedback to speakers. Most speakers were happy for key messages to be tweeted, and the majority of tweets (34/37) represented these accurately. It is important that speakers and conference organisers consider Twitter use and its potential benefits and disadvantages.
Skeletal muscle architectural adaptations to marathon run training
Authors: Murach Kevin , Greever Cory , Luden Nicholas D.
Published: December 2014

We assessed lateral gastrocnemius (LG) and vastus lateralis (VL) architecture in 16 recreational runners before and after 12 weeks of marathon training. LG fascicle length decreased 10% while pennation angle increased 17% (p < 0.05). There was a significant correlation between diminished blood lactate levels and LG pennation angle change (r = 0.90). No changes were observed in VL. This is the first evidence that run training can modify skeletal muscle architectural features.