bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Das neue NaiS-Anforderungsprofil Steinschlag
Authors: Dorren Luuk , Berger Frédéric , Frehner Monika , Huber Markus , Kühne Kathrin , Métral Roland , Sandri Arthur , Schwitter Raphael , Thormann Jean-Jacques , Wasser Berchthold
Published: December 2014

The new NaiS target profile for rockfall

Due to new findings on the protective function of forests against rockfall, the Federal Office for the Environment started in 2008 with a revision of the Swiss target profiles for rockfall protection forests. Until now, fall velocity of rocks, rock mass, as well as the forested slope length, were not considered for the determination of the target profile. In order to incorporate all of these important factors, an Internet-based form has been developed which calculates the target profile. This article firstly gives a short overview of the most important aspects of rockfall in protection forests and secondly presents the approach used for the calculation of the new target profile. Although the German word “Steinschlag” only refers to small rock particles, forests also have a protective effect against large blocks (e.g. >5 m3), however, a long forested transit zone with a sufficient number of trees with larger stem diameters is required for a relevant energy and risk reduction. The new target profile offers possibilities to account for such situations as well.
Die Zürcher Wälder um 1823 – Betriebsformen und Baumarten
Authors: Bader Mirjam , Gimmi Urs , Bürgi Matthias
Published: December 2014

The forests in the Canton of Zurich around 1823 – forest types and tree species

Based on early forest management plans from 1823, this paper analyses forest management practices and tree species composition in the public forests of the Canton of Zurich in the early 19th century. Forest type distribution across the canton is reconstructed and detailed tree species composition is shown for 31 communities in the north-western part of the canton. For these communities, we compared the historical tree species composition with modern data from a regional forest inventory. The results show that coppice with standards was the most important forest type in the early 19th century. Tree species composition largely depends on the forest types. The highest diversity in tree species can be found in coppice and coppice-with-standards forests. The analyses reveal no clear relationship between tree species composition and environmental factors such as climate, topography and soil. This leads to the conclusion that in the early 19th century already management had a stronger influence on tree composition than natural conditions. During the last 200 years, tree species composition in the Canton of Zurich changed profoundly. Whereas today's forests are more natural in terms of species composition, they are less diverse in species. Knowing the tree species composition in the past can thus be helpful in conservation projects, e.g. in establishing coppice and coppice-with- standards forests in order to promote rare light-demanding plant and animal species.
Pollen morphology of Verbascum L. (Scrophulariaceae) in Northern and Central Iraq
Authors: Al-Hadeethy Muazaz , Al-Mashhadani Athiya , Al-Khesraji Talib , Barusrux Sahapat , Al-Jewari Hazim , Theerakulpisut Piyada , Pornpongrungrueng Pimwadee
Published: December 2014

The present study highlights the taxonomic values of the pollen features of 20 species of Verbascum L. in Iraq. The pollen grains were acetolysed and observed under Light and Electron microscopes. Our results showed that the pollen grains of these species are usually radially symmetrical, isopolar, tricolporate and display reticulate sculpturing. The variations were found in shape, size, and exine thickness. Most of the species are subprolate, prolate spheroidal, and prolate, whereas oblate spheroidal pollens were found only in V. thapsus. The pollen size among the species studied ranges from 16.2-32.5 µm. The majority of species are medium sized except V. agrimoniifolium and V. oreophilum that are small sized, and four species i.e. V. palmyrense, V. sinuatum, V. songaricum, and V. thapsus having both small and medium sized pollen grains. Moreover, the result showed that the exine thickness ranges from 0.87-4.75 µm, but this value can overlap between some species. Therefore, only the shape of pollen grains could be used to classify these species into groups.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpt.v21i2.21355Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 21(2): 159-165, 2014 (December)
Determining the Interruptible Load with Strategic Behavior in a Competitive Electricity Market
Authors: Yoo Tae , Park Hyeongon , Lyu Jae-Kun , Park Jong-Keun
Published: December 2014

In a deregulated market, independent system operators meet power balance based on supply and demand bids to maximize social welfare. Since electricity markets are typically oligopolies, players with market power may withhold capacity to maximize profit. Such exercise of market power can lead to various problems, including increased electricity prices, and hence lower social welfare. Here we propose an approach to maximize social welfare and prevent the exercising of market power by means of interruptible loads in a competitive market environment. Our approach enables management of the market power by analyzing the benefit to the companies of capacity withdrawal and scheduling resources with interruptible loads. Our formulation shows that we can prevent power companies and demand-resource owners from exercising market powers. The oligopolistic conditions are described using the Cournot model to reflect the capacity withdrawal in electricity markets. The numerical results confirm the effectiveness of proposed method, via a comparison of perfect competition and oligopoly scenarios. Our approach provides reductions in market-clearing prices, increases in social welfare, and more equal distribution of surpluses between players.
Measure of Landmark Semantic Salience through Geosocial Data Streams
Authors: Quesnot Teriitutea , Roche Stéphane
Published: December 2014

Research in the area of spatial cognition demonstrated that references to landmarks are essential in the communication and the interpretation of wayfinding instructions for human being. In order to detect landmarks, a model for the assessment of their salience has been previously developed by Raubal and Winter. According to their model, landmark salience is divided into three categories: visual, structural, and semantic. Several solutions have been proposed to automatically detect landmarks on the basis of these categories. Due to a lack of relevant data, semantic salience has been frequently reduced to objects’ historical and cultural significance. Social dimension (i.e., the way an object is practiced and recognized by a person or a group of people) is systematically excluded from the measure of landmark semantic salience even though it represents an important component. Since the advent of mobile Internet and smartphones, the production of geolocated content from social web platforms—also described as geosocial data—became commonplace. Actually, these data allow us to have a better understanding of the local geographic knowledge. Therefore, we argue that geosocial data, especially Social Location Sharing datasets, represent a reliable source of information to precisely measure landmark semantic salience in urban area.
Examining Personal Air Pollution Exposure, Intake, and Health Danger Zone Using Time Geography and 3D Geovisualization
Authors: Lu Yongmei , Fang Tianfang
Published: December 2014

Expanding traditional time geography, this study examines personal exposure to air pollution and personal pollutant intake, and defines personal health danger zones by accounting for individual level space-time behavior. A 3D personal air pollution and health risk map is constructed to visualize individual space-time path, personal Air Quality Indexes (AQIs), and personal health danger zones. Personal air pollution exposure level and its variation through space and time is measured by a portable air pollutant sensor coupled with a portable GPS unit. Personal pollutant intake is estimated by accounting for air pollutant concentration in immediate surroundings, individual’s biophysical characteristics, and individual’s space-time activities. Personal air pollution danger zones are defined by comparing personal pollutant intake with air quality standard; these zones are particular space-time-activity segments along an individual’s space-time path. Being able to identify personal air pollution danger zones can help plan for proper actions aiming at controlling health impacts from air pollution. As a case study, this paper reports on an examination and visualization of an individual’s two-day ozone exposure, intake and danger zones in Houston, Texas.
Association between ADIPOQ +45T>G Polymorphism and Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Fan Yaofu , Wang Kun , Xu Shuhang , Chen Guofang , Di Hongjie , Cao Meng , Liu Chao
Published: December 2014

Recently, a number of studies have reported the association between the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) +45T>G polymorphism in the adiponectin (ADIPOQ) gene and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) risk, though the results are inconsistent. In order to obtain a more precise estimation of the relationship, a meta-analysis was performed. In this current study, the Medline, Embase, Pubmed, ISI Web of Knowledge, Ovid, Science Citation Index Expanded Database, Wanfang Database, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure were searched for eligible studies. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to estimate the strength of association. Forty-five publications were included in the final meta-analysis with 9986 T2DM patients and 16,222 controls for ADIPOQ +45T>G polymorphism according to our inclusion and exclusion criteria. The +45T>G polymorphism was associated with an overall significantly increased risk of T2DM (G vs. T: OR = 1.18, 95% CI = 1.06–1.32; The dominant model: OR = 1.18, 95% CI = 1.03–1.33; The recessive model: OR = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.20–1.78; The homozygous model: OR = 1.62, 95% CI = 1.25–2.09; Except the heterozygous model: OR = 1.11, 95% CI = 0.98–1.24). Subgroup analysis revealed a significant association between the +45T>G polymorphism and T2D in an Asian population. Thus, this meta-analysis indicates that the G allele of the ADIPOQ +45T>G polymorphisms associated with a significantly increased risk of T2DM in the Asian population.
Preparation and Characterization of Films Extruded of Polyethylene/Chitosan Modified with Poly(lactic acid)
Authors: Quiroz-Castillo Jesús , Rodríguez-Félix Dora , Grijalva-Monteverde Heriberto , Lizárraga-Laborín Lauren , Castillo-Ortega María , Del Castillo-Castro Teresa , Rodríguez-Félix Francisco , Herrera-Franco Pedro
Published: December 2014

The use of mixtures of synthetic and natural polymers is a potential option to reduce the pollution by plastic waste. In this work, the method for the chemical modification of chitosan with poly(lactic acid) was developed; then, the preparation of films of blends of polyethylene and chitosan-poly(lactic acid) produced by an extrusion method using polyethylene-graft maleic anhydride as a compatibilizer. It was possible to obtain films with a maximum content of 20 wt% and 30 wt%, chitosan, with and without compatibilizer, respectively. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis showed a homogeneous surface on all films. The addition of the compatibilizer had a significant effect on the mechanical properties of the films, such as an increase in Young’s modulus and a decrease in the elongation at break; additionally, the compatibilizer promotes thermal degradation in a single step and gives the film a slight increase in thermal resistance. These results are attributed to an improved interaction in the interface of polyethylene and chitosan-poly(lactic acid), promoted by the compatibilizer.
Total Synthesis of Gobiusxanthin Stereoisomers and Their Application to Determination of Absolute Configurations of Natural Products: Revision of Reported Absolute Configuration of Epigobiusxanthin
Authors: Yamano Yumiko , Ematsu Kotaro , Kurimoto Hiromasa , Maoka Takashi , Wada Akimori
Published: December 2014

(3R)-Gobiusxanthin stereoisomers (1a–d) were synthesized by stereoselective Wittig reaction of the (3R)-C15-acetylenic tri-n-butylphosphonium salt 7 with C25-apocarotenal stereoisomers 5a,b and 14a,b bearing four kinds of 3,6-dihydroxy-ε-end groups. The validity of the reported stereochemistry of gobiusxanthin was demonstrated by the fact that the reported spectral data of natural gobiusxanthin were in agreement with those of synthetic (3R,3'S,6'R)-gobiusxanthin (1a). On the other hand, the reported CD spectral data of natural epigobiusxanthin, which has been assigned as (3R,3'R,6'R)-isomer (3'-epigobiusxanthin), were identical with those of synthetic (3R,3'S,6'S)-isomer 1d (6'-epigobiusxanthin) rather than those of the corresponding synthetic 3'-epi-isomer 1b. It was found that the stereochemistry at C3-position has little effect on the shape of their CD spectra. Thus, in order to reinforce the validity of the absolute configurations at C3-position of natural specimens, (3S,3'S,6'R)- and (3S,3'S,6'S)-stereoisomers 1e and 1f were also synthesized and a HPLC analytical method for four stereoisomers was established by using a column carrying a chiral stationary phase. The HPLC analysis has proven that the stereochemistry of the natural epigobiusxanthin is 3R,3'S,6'S.
A Fumonisins Immunosensor Based on Polyanilino-Carbon Nanotubes Doped with Palladium Telluride Quantum Dots
Authors: Masikini Milua , Mailu Stephen , Tsegaye Abebaw , Njomo Njagi , Molapo Kerileng , Ikpo Chinwe , Sunday Christopher , Rassie Candice , Wilson Lindsay , Baker Priscilla , Iwuoha Emmanuel
Published: December 2014

An impedimetric immunosensor for fumonisins was developed based on poly(2,5-dimethoxyaniline)-multi-wall carbon nanotubes doped with palladium telluride quantum dots onto a glassy carbon surface. The composite was assembled by a layer-by-layer method to form a multilayer film of quantum dots (QDs) and poly(2,5-dimethoxyaniline)-multi-wall carbon nanotubes (PDMA-MWCNT). Preparation of the electrochemical immunosensor for fumonisins involved drop-coating of fumonisins antibody onto the composite modified glassy carbon electrode. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy response of the FB1 immunosensor (GCE/PT-PDMA-MWCNT/anti-Fms-BSA) gave a linear range of 7 to 49 ng L−1 and the corresponding sensitivity and detection limits were 0.0162 kΩ L ng−1 and 0.46 pg L−1, respectively, hence the limit of detection of the GCE/PT-PDMA-MWCNT immunosensor for fumonisins in corn certified material was calculated to be 0.014 and 0.011 ppm for FB1, and FB2 and FB3, respectively. These results are lower than those obtained by ELISA, a provisional maximum tolerable daily intake (PMTDI) for fumonisins (the sum of FB1, FB2, and FB3) established by the Joint FAO/WHO expert committee on food additives and contaminants of 2 μg kg−1 and the maximum level recommended by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for protection of human consumption (2–4 mg L−1).
New System for Measuring Impact Vibration on Floor Decking Sheets
Authors: Moron Carlos , Garcia Alfonso , Ferrandez Daniel
Published: December 2014

Currently, there is a narrow range of materials that are used as attenuators of impact noise and building vibrations. Materials used in construction, such as elastic materials, must meet the requirement of having very low elastic modulus values. For the determination of the material’s elastic modulus and the acoustic insulation of the same, costly and difficult to execute testing is required. The present paper exposes an alternative system that is simpler and more economic, consisting of a predefined striking device and a sensor able to determine, once the strike is produced, the energy absorbed by the plate. After the impact is produced, the plate undergoes a deformation, which absorbs part of the energy, the remaining part being transmitted to the slab and, at the same time, causing induced airborne noise in the adjoining room. The plate absorbs the power through its own deformation, which is measured with the help of a capacitive sensor. This way, it would be possible to properly define the geometry of the plates, after the execution of the test, and we will try to establish a relationship between the values proposed in this research and the acoustic behavior demanded by the Spanish standards.
Topology and the Visualization of Space
Authors: Robbin Tony
Published: December 2014

Overlapping patterns provide the diagrammatics for four-dimensional space. If these patterns are three-dimensional lattices, and if one imagines them extended in three-dimensional space, then the diagram makes a model of physical space.
Effects of RAMEA-complexed polyunsaturated fatty acids on the response of human dendritic cells to inflammatory signals
Authors: Rajnavölgyi Éva , Laczik Renáta , Kun Viktor , Szente Lajos , Fenyvesi Éva
Published: December 2014

The n−3 fatty acids are not produced by mammals, although they are essential for hormone synthesis and maintenance of cell membrane structure and integrity. They have recently been shown to inhibit inflammatory reactions and also emerged as potential treatment options for inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, asthma and inflammatory bowel diseases. Dendritic cells (DC) play a central role in the regulation of both innate and adaptive immunity and upon inflammatory signals they produce various soluble factors among them cytokines and chemokines that act as inflammatory or regulatory mediators. In this study we monitored the effects of α-linoleic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid solubilized in a dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)/ethanol 1:1 mixture or as complexed by randomly methylated α-cyclodextrin (RAMEA) on the inflammatory response of human monocyte-derived dendritic cells (moDC). The use of RAMEA for enhancing aqueous solubility of n−3 fatty acids has the unambiguous advantage over applying RAMEB (the β-cyclodextrin analog), since there is no interaction with cell membrane cholesterol. In vitro differentiated moDC were left untreated or were stimulated by bacterial lipopolysaccharide and polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid, mimicking bacterial and viral infections, respectively. The response of unstimulated and activated moDC to n−3 fatty acid treatment was tested by measuring the cell surface expression of CD1a used as a phenotypic and CD83 as an activation marker of inflammatory moDC differentiation and activation by using flow cytometry. Monocyte-derived DC activation was also monitored by the secretion level of the pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10 and IL-12, respectively. We found that RAMEA-complexed n−3 fatty acids reduced the expression of CD1a protein in both LPS and Poly(I:C) stimulated moDC significantly, but most efficiently by eicosapentaenic acid, while no significant change in the expression of CD83 protein was observed. The production of IL-6 by LPS-activated moDC was also reduced significantly when eicosapentaenic acid was added as a RAMEA complex as compared to its DMSO-solubilized form or to the other two n−3 fatty acids either complexed or not. Based on these results n−3 fatty acids solubilized by RAMEA provide with a new tool for optimizing the anti-inflammatory effects of n−3 fatty acids exerted on human moDC and mediated through the GP120 receptor without interfering with the cell membrane structure.
Complement Component C5 Recruits Neutrophils in the Absence of C3 during Respiratory Infection with Modified Vaccinia Virus Ankara
Authors: Price Philip J. R. , Bánki Zoltán , Scheideler Angelika , Stoiber Heribert , Verschoor Admar , Sutter Gerd , Lehmann Michael H.
Published: December 2014

Efficient leukocyte migration is important for an effective host response to viral infection and the development of adaptive immunity. The poxvirus strain modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA), a safe and efficient viral vector, rapidly induces chemokine expression and respiratory recruitment of leukocytes, which is unique among vaccinia viruses. In addition to chemokines, the complement system contributes to the attraction and activation of different types of leukocytes. Using a murine model of intranasal infection, we show in this study that MVA-induced neutrophil recruitment depends on complement component C5. Remarkably, we find that C5 mediates neutrophil recruitment to the lung, even in the absence of the central complement component C3. Our findings argue for complement C5 activation during MVA infection of the lung via a C3-independent pathway, which enables rapid recruitment of neutrophils.
A Major Role for Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells and a Minor Role for Regulatory T Cells in Immunosuppression during Staphylococcus aureus Infection
Authors: Tebartz Christina , Horst Sarah Anita , Sparwasser Tim , Huehn Jochen , Beineke Andreas , Peters Georg , Medina Eva
Published: December 2014

Staphylococcus aureus can cause difficult-to-treat chronic infections. We recently reported that S. aureus chronic infection was associated with a profound inhibition of T cell responses. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms responsible for the suppression of T cell responses during chronic S. aureus infection. Using in vitro coculture systems, as well as in vivo adoptive transfer of CFSE-labeled OT-II cells, we demonstrated the presence of immunosuppressive mechanisms in splenocytes of S. aureus–infected mice that inhibited the response of OT-II cells to cognate antigenic stimulation. Immunosuppression was IL-10/TGF-β independent but required cell–cell proximity. Using DEREG and Foxp3gfp mice, we demonstrated that CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells contributed, but only to a minor degree, to bystander immunosuppression. Neither regulatory B cells nor tolerogenic dendritic cells contributed to immunosuppression. Instead, we found a significant expansion of granulocytic (CD11b+Ly6G+Ly6Clow) and monocytic (CD11b+Ly6G−Ly6Chigh) myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) in chronically infected mice, which exerted a strong immunosuppressive effect on T cell responses. Splenocytes of S. aureus–infected mice lost most of their suppressive activity after the in vivo depletion of MDSC by treatment with gemcitabine. Furthermore, a robust negative correlation was observed between the degree of T cell inhibition and the number of MDSC. An increase in the numbers of MDSC in S. aureus–infected mice by adoptive transfer caused a significant exacerbation of infection. In summary, our results indicate that expansion of MDSC and, to a minor degree, of regulatory T cells in S. aureus–infected mice may create an immunosuppressive environment that sustains chronic infection.
Knockdown of the Antiapoptotic Bcl-2 Family Member A1/Bfl-1 Protects Mice from Anaphylaxis
Authors: Ottina Eleonora , Lyberg Katarina , Sochalska Maja , Villunger Andreas , Nilsson Gunnar P.
Published: December 2014

Many forms of hypersensitivity reactions and allergic responses depend on deregulated mast cell activity. Several reports suggested that the antiapoptotic Bcl-2 family protein Bcl2a1/Bfl-1/A1 plays a critical role in mast cell survival upon activation. However, its in vivo relevance is poorly understood because of quadruplication of the Bcl2a1 gene locus in mice, hindering conventional knockout studies. In this study, we used a mouse model allowing traceable constitutive knockdown of all A1 isoforms expressed in the hematopoietic system by RNA interference. Knockdown of A1 reduced mast cell numbers in the skin and impaired connective tissue–like mast cell survival upon FcεRI-mediated activation in vitro. In contrast, A1 was dispensable for mucosa-like mast cell differentiation and survival. Moreover, knockdown of A1 prevented IgE-mediated passive systemic and cutaneous anaphylaxis in vivo. Our findings demonstrate that A1 is essential for the homeostasis of connective tissue mast cells, identifying A1 as a possible therapeutic target for therapy of certain types of mast cell–driven allergy symptoms.
Modulating DNA Methylation in Activated CD8+ T Cells Inhibits Regulatory T Cell–Induced Binding of Foxp3 to the CD8+ T Cell IL-2 Promoter
Authors: Miller Michelle M. , Akaronu Nnenna , Thompson Elizabeth M. , Hood Sylvia F. , Fogle Jonathan E.
Published: December 2014

We have previously demonstrated that CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) activated during the course of feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infection suppress CD8+ CTL function in a TGF-β–dependent fashion, inhibiting IFN-γ and IL-2 production and inducing G1 cell-cycle arrest. In this article, we describe the molecular events occurring at the IL-2 promoter leading to suppression of IL-2 production. These experiments demonstrate that Foxp3 induced by lentivirus-activated Tregs in the CD8+ target cells binds to the IL-2 promoter, actively repressing IL-2 transcription. We further demonstrate that the chronic activation of CD8+ T cells during FIV infection results in chromatin remodeling at the IL-2 promoter, specifically, demethylation of CpG residues. These DNA modifications occur during active transcription and translation of IL-2; however, these changes render the IL-2 promoter permissive to Foxp3-induced transcriptional repression. These data help explain, in part, the seemingly paradoxical observations that CD8+ T cells displaying an activation phenotype exhibit altered antiviral function. Further, we demonstrate that blocking demethylation of CpG residues at the IL-2 promoter inhibits Foxp3 binding, suggesting a potential mechanism for rescue and/or reactivation of CD8+ T cells. Using the FIV model for lentiviral persistence, these studies provide a framework for understanding how immune activation combined with Treg-mediated suppression may affect CD8+ T cell IL-2 transcription, maturation, and antiviral function.
Cutting Edge: Progesterone Directly Upregulates Vitamin D Receptor Gene Expression for Efficient Regulation of T Cells by Calcitriol
Authors: Thangamani Shankar , Kim Myughoo , Son Youngmin , Huang Xinxin , Kim Heejoo , Lee Jee H. , Cho Jungyoon , Ulrich Benjamin , Broxmeyer Hal E. , Kim Chang H.
Published: December 2014

The two nuclear hormone receptor ligands progesterone and vitamin D (vit.D) play important roles in regulating T cells. The mechanism that connects these two hormones in regulating T cells has not been established. In this study, we report that progesterone is a novel inducer of vit.D receptor (VDR) in T cells and makes T cells highly sensitive to calcitriol. At the molecular level, the induction by progesterone is mediated by two progesterone receptor-binding elements in the intron region after the first noncoding exon of the human VDR gene. Increased expression of VDR by progesterone allows highly sensitive regulation of T cells by vit.D even when vit.D levels are suboptimal. This novel regulatory pathway allows enhanced induction of regulatory T cells but suppression of Th1 and Th17 cells by the two nuclear hormones. The results have significant ramifications in effective regulation of T cells to prevent adverse immune responses during pregnancy.
Cutting Edge: AIM2 and Endosomal TLRs Differentially Regulate Arthritis and Autoantibody Production in DNase II–Deficient Mice
Authors: Baum Rebecca , Sharma Shruti , Carpenter Susan , Li Quan-Zhen , Busto Patricia , Fitzgerald Katherine A. , Marshak-Rothstein Ann , Gravallese Ellen M.
Published: December 2014

Innate immune pattern recognition receptors sense nucleic acids from microbes and orchestrate cytokine production to resolve infection. Inappropriate recognition of host nucleic acids also results in autoimmune disease. In this study, we use a model of inflammation resulting from accrual of self DNA (DNase II−/− type I IFN receptor [Ifnar]−/−) to understand the role of pattern recognition receptor–sensing pathways in arthritis and autoantibody production. Using triple knockout (TKO) mice deficient in DNase II/IFNaR together with deficiency in either stimulator of IFN genes (STING) or absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2), we reveal central roles for the STING and AIM2 pathways in arthritis. AIM2 TKO mice show limited inflammasome activation and, similar to STING TKO mice, have reduced inflammation in joints. Surprisingly, autoantibody production is maintained in AIM2 and STING TKO mice, whereas DNase II−/− Ifnar−/− mice also deficient in Unc93b, a chaperone required for TLR7/9 endosomal localization, fail to produce autoantibodies to nucleic acids. Collectively, these data support distinct roles for cytosolic and endosomal nucleic acid–sensing pathways in disease manifestations.
Brain abscesses caused by Nocardia paucivorans in a multiple myeloma patient treated with lenalidomide and dexamethasone: a case report and review of literature.
Authors: Monticelli Jacopo , Luzzati Roberto , Maurel Cristina , Rosin Chiara , Valentinotti Romina , Farina Claudio
Published: December 2014

We report the first case of multiple brain abscesses caused by Nocardia paucivorans in a patient suffering from multiple myeloma on treatment with lenalidomide and dexamethasone. Nocardia  paucivorans is a recently described species of the genus Nocardia, which is supposed to have a heightened neurotropism in cases of disseminated infection. Although nocardiosis itself is an uncommon infectious complication in multiple myeloma so far, nocardial brain abscess should be added to the spectrum of adverse effects due to this novel chemotherapy regimen.
A MULTICENTER EXPERIENCE FROM LEBANON IN CHILDHOOD AND ADOLESCENT ACUTE MYELOID LEUKEMIA:HIGH RATE OF EARLY DEATH IN CHILDHOOD ACUTE PROMYELOCYTIC LEUKEMIA.
Authors: Farah Roula Antoine
Published: December 2014

AbstractBackground: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a disease with marked heterogeneity. Despite major improvement in outcome, it remains a life-threatening malignancy. Demographic and clinical data on pediatric AML is lacking among the Lebanese population. Purpose: We aimed to identify clinical, molecular and outcome data in children with AML in Lebanon. Methods: A retrospective chart review of children with AML diagnosed in three Lebanese hospitals during the past 8 years was conducted. Results: From May 2002 through March 2010, we identified 24 children with AML in Saint George Hospital University Medical Center, University Medical Center Rizk Hospital and Abou-Jaoude Hospital. Males and females were equally represented; median age at diagnosis was 9 years (range 1-24) and median WBC at diagnosis was 31 x109/L (range: 2.1-376 x109/L). Twenty five percent of patients (6 out of 24) had acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). Karyotype was normal in 33 % of patients; t(8;21), inv (16), t(8;9), t(7;11), t(9;11), complex chromosomal abnormality, monosomy 7 and trisomy 8 were the most common cytogenetic abnormalities encountered. Patients were treated on different European and North American protocols. Twelve patients (50%) achieved morphologic CR after cycle 1, 6 of them (50%) had bone marrow relapse within 11 months from diagnosis. Nine patients underwent allogeneic stem cell transplant and 3 of them are alive at 5 years post-transplant. Early death rate was 16.6% of patients, mainly those with APL and a presenting WBC > 10 x 109/L. Fifty per cent of APL patients had an early death due to DIC despite starting ATRA therapy. Overall, median survival for AML patients who died from disease progression was 25.8 months (range: 1-60 months). Overall disease-free survival was 30.4%. Patients < 10 years of age had a 50% survival rate compared to 0% in patients > 10 years. Conclusions:  Our report highlights the needs in Lebanon for better supportive care of children with APL including faster ATRA administration and aggressive transfusions, faster access to stem cell transplant for high-risk AML patients and the need for a national homogenous treatment strategy for children with AML. Key-words: AML, pediatric AML, leukemia, AML Lebanon, APML, Early death
Malaria in the Americas: Trends from 1959 to 2011
Authors: Carter Keith H. , Singh Prabhjot , Mujica Oscar J. , Escalada Rainier P. , Ade Maria Paz , Castellanos Luis Gerardo , Espinal Marcos A.
Published: December 2014

Malaria has declined in recent years in countries of the American continents. In 2011, 12 of 21 endemic countries had already met their 2015 Millennium Development Goal. However, this declining trend has not been adequately evaluated. An analysis of the number of cases per 100,000 people (annual parasite index [API]) and the percentage of positive blood slides (slide positivity rate [SPR]) during the period of 1959–2011 in 21 endemic countries was done using the joinpoint regression methodology. During 1960–1979, API and SPR increased significantly and peaked in the 1980s. Since the 1990s, there have been significant declining trends in both API and SPR. Additionally, both Plasmodium vivax and P. falciparum species-specific incidence have declined. With the exception of two countries, such a collectively declining malaria trend was not observed in previous decades. This presents a unique opportunity for the Americas to seriously consider malaria elimination as a final goal.
Prevalence of Borrelia burgdorferi Sensu Lato in Ticks from Eastern China
Authors: Hou Juan , Ling Feng , Chai Chengliang , Lu Ye , Yu Xianghua , Lin Junfen , Sun Jimin , Chang Yue , Ye Xiaodong , Gu Shiping , Pang Weilong , Wang Chengwei , Zheng Xiaohua , Jiang Jianmin , Chen Zhiping , Gong Zhenyu
Published: December 2014

To explore the tick distribution and prevalence of Borrelia in Zhejiang Province, we performed a survey in nine sites. A total of 447 adult ticks of 11 species were captured and the dominant tick species were Haemaphysalis longicornis and Ixodes sinensis and the abundance of tick species in different areas varied significantly. Overall, 4.70% of the ticks were polymerase chain reaction (PCR) positive for Borrelia. The average PCR positive rates were 5.19% for H. longicornis, 3.45% for Amblyomma testudinarium, 1.06% for I. sinensis, 5.00% for Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, and 19.44% for Ixodes granulatus, respectively. No Borrelia DNA was detected in Rhiphicephalus haemaphysaloides, Haemaphysalis yeni, Dermacentor taiwanensis, Haemaphysalis hystricis, Hyalomna asiaticum, and Ixodes ovatus. The prevalence of Borrelia was significantly different among tick species and the prevalence in I. granulatus was significantly higher than that in other tick species. Of note, experimentally confirmed vectors for B. burgdorferi s.l. including I. sinensis and I. granulatus were found in Zhejiang Province. Two species of B. burgdorferi s.l. exist in Zhejiang Province of which 12 sequences were most similar to the sequence of Borrelia garinii and nine sequences were most similar to the sequence of Borrelia valaisiana or Borrelia yangtze sp. nov.
Relative Frequency, Characteristics, and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Patterns of Vibrio spp., Aeromonas spp., Chromobacterium violaceum, and Shewanella spp. in the Northern Territory of Australia, 2000–2013
Authors: McAuliffe Gary N. , Hennessy Jann , Baird Robert W.
Published: December 2014

Vibrio, Aeromonas, Chromobacterium violaceum, and Shewanella (VACS) are water-associated Gram-negative organisms that can cause a variety of infections. The frequency, patient characteristics, and antimicrobial susceptibilities for 468 isolates from 442 patients from the Northern Territory were reviewed. Aeromonas spp. (312 of 468; 67%) were most commonly isolated followed by Vibrio spp. (71 of 468; 15%), Shewanella spp. (61 of 468; 13%), and C. violaceum (24 of 468; 5%). A strong male predominance was found (male to female ratio of 2.3:1). Skin and soft tissue isolations (373 of 468; 80%) from lower limb infections (222 of 371; 60%) were the most common clinical manifestation. The episodes were usually polymicrobial (281 of 468; 60%). Coisolates included Staphylococcus aureus (137 of 468; 29%), β-hemolytic streptococci (74 of 468; 16%), enterobacteriaceae (111 of 468; 24%), non-fermentative Gram-negative bacilli (35 of 468; 7%), and other VACS organisms (37 of 468; 8%). Antimicrobial resistance of VACS organisms to ciprofloxacin (0–4%), cefepime (0–3%), and gentamicin (0–0.8%) and Vibrio spp., Aeromonas spp., and Shewanella to cotrimoxazole (0–3%) was rarely shown. For water-associated lower limb skin and soft tissue infections in the tropics, clinicians should consider empirical antimicrobial therapy with agents active against S. aureus and VACS organisms.
The Impact of Credit on Technical Efficiency Among Vegetable Farmers in Swaziland
Authors: Masuku Micah B. , Raufu M. O. , Malinga Nokwanda G.
Published: December 2014

Access to credit is regarded as an important intervention for improving the incomes of the rural population, mainly by mobilizing resources to more productive uses. Production of vegetables by smallholder farmers in Swaziland is inconsistent and lower than the national demand, hence the gap is filled by imports from South Africa. The purpose of the study was to assess the influence of credit on technical efficiency of smallholder vegetable farmers in Swaziland. Data were collected in 2013 from farmers through a structured questionnaire, which was administered using personal interviews. A two-stage sampling procedure was used by stratifying the vegetable farmers in the Hhohho region according to the four Rural Development Areas (RDAs). This was followed by a simple random sampling technique used to select the number of vegetable farmers from each stratum. A sample size of 120 farmers was selected from a population of 289. The Stochastic Frontier production function was used to analyze the data using the STATA program (version 12). The results revealed that credit had a negative effect on technical efficiency of cabbage and green pepper farmers, while it had a positive effect on the technical efficiency of tomato, and beetroot farmers. The technical efficiency of tomatoes and cabbage farmers was affected by age, education level, farming experience and access to credit (p <0.01), while beetroot and green pepper was affected by farmer’s age, and off-farm income. (p<0.05). The study recommended that vegetable farmers should increase the amount of seeds, fertilizer and chemicals used in order to improve yields. The Government of Swaziland should subsidize farming inputs and financial institutions should make credit more available to agribusinesses in order to improve the efficient use of input resources.
The Pulmonary Histopathology of Anti-KS Transfer RNA Synthetase Syndrome
Authors: Schneider Frank , Aggarwal Rohit , Bi David , Gibson Kevin , Oddis Chester , Yousem Samuel A.
Published: December 2014

Context

The clinical spectrum of the antisynthetase syndromes (AS) has been poorly defined, although some frequently present with pulmonary manifestations. The anti-KS anti–asparaginyl-transfer RNA synthetase syndrome is one in which pulmonary interstitial lung disease is almost always present and yet the histopathologic spectrum is not well described.

Objective

To define the morphologic manifestations of pulmonary disease in those patients with anti-KS antiasparaginyl syndrome.

Design

We reviewed the connective tissue disorder registry of the University of Pittsburgh and identified those patients with anti-KS autoantibodies who presented with interstitial lung disease and had surgical lung biopsies.

Results

The 5 patients with anti-KS antisynthetase syndrome were usually women presenting with dyspnea and without myositis, but with mechanic's hands (60%) and Raynaud phenomenon (40%). They most often presented with a usual interstitial pneumonia pattern of fibrosis (80%), with the final patient displaying organizing pneumonia.

Conclusions

Pulmonary interstitial lung disease is a common presentation in patients with the anti-KS–antisynthetase syndrome, who are often women with rather subtle or subclinical connective tissue disease, whereas the literature emphasizes the nonspecific interstitial pneumonia pattern often diagnosed clinically. Usual interstitial pneumonia and organizing pneumonia patterns of interstitial injury need to be added to this clinical differential diagnosis.
Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Reduce Neuronal Death After Transient Global Cerebral Ischemia Through Prevention of Blood-Brain Barrier Disruption and Endothelial Damage
Authors: Chung Tae Nyoung , Kim Jin Hee , Choi Bo Young , Chung Sung Phil , Kwon Sung Won , Suh Sang Won
Published: December 2014

Global cerebral ischemia (GCI) is the leading cause of a poor prognosis even after successful resuscitation from cardiac arrest. Therapeutic induction of hypothermia (TH) is the only proven therapy—and current standard care—for GCI after cardiac arrest; however, its application has been significantly limited owing to technical difficulties. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are known to suppress neuronal death after cerebral ischemia. The prevention of blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption has not been suggested as a mechanism of MSC treatment but has for TH. We evaluated the therapeutic effect of MSC administration on BBB disruption and neutrophil infiltration after GCI. To evaluate the therapeutic effects of MSC treatment, rats were subjected to 7 minutes of transient GCI and treated with MSCs immediately after reperfusion. Hippocampal neuronal death was evaluated at 7 days after ischemia using Fluoro-Jade B (FJB). BBB disruption, endothelial damage, and neutrophil infiltration were evaluated at 7 days after ischemia by immunostaining for IgG leakage, Rat endothelial antigen-1, and myeloperoxidase (MPO). Rats treated with MSCs showed a significantly reduced FJB+ neuron count compared with the control group. They also showed reduced IgG leakage, endothelial damage, and MPO+ cell counts. The present study demonstrated that administration of MSCs after transient GCI provides a dramatic protective effect against hippocampal neuronal death. We hypothesized that the neuroprotective effects of MSC treatment might be associated with the prevention of BBB disruption and endothelial damage and a decrease in neutrophil infiltration.
Concise Review: Hematopoietic Stem Cell Aging and the Prospects for Rejuvenation
Authors: Wahlestedt Martin , Pronk Cornelis Jan , Bryder David
Published: December 2014

Because of the continuous increases in lifetime expectancy, the incidence of age-related diseases will, unless counteracted, represent an increasing problem at both the individual and socioeconomic levels. Studies on the processes of blood cell formation have revealed several shortcomings as a consequence of chronological age. They include a reduced ability to mount adaptive immune responses and a blood cell composition skewed toward myeloid cells, with the latter coinciding with a dramatically increased incidence of myelogenous diseases, including cancer. Conversely, the dominant forms of acute leukemia affecting children associate with the lymphoid lineages. A growing body of evidence has suggested that aging of various organs and cellular systems, including the hematopoietic system, associates with a functional demise of tissue-resident stem cell populations. Mechanistically, DNA damage and/or altered transcriptional landscapes appear to be major drivers of the hematopoietic stem cell aging state, with recent data proposing that stem cell aging phenotypes are characterized by at least some degree of reversibility. These findings suggest the possibility of rejuvenating, or at least dampening, stem cell aging phenotypes in the elderly for therapeutic benefit.
Proposed Model of Coast Guard Enhancing Maritime Security and Safety in the Republic of Slovenia
Authors: Twrdy Elen , Androjna Andrej , Pavliha Marko
Published: December 2014

In the modern world, the sea is one of the most important resources for the economy and welfare of the country that has access to it and so is the sense of security. Meeting today’s security challenges requires a wide spectrum of civil and military instruments. It calls for regular coordination, consultation and interaction among all actors involved, and it requires a national multifunctional Structure.The paper presents the search for new systematic forms to ensure adequate maritime security and safety at sea. Based on the research on successfully organized similar foreign institutions in relation to the national security institutions in the maritime domain the Coast Guard model of the Republic of Slovenia has been designed. The model could significantly improve the level of efficiency and consistency of national authorities in the area of control, security and safety of the territorial sea and rationalize expenditures. Implementing the proposed model and placing it in the national security and defence system, is a challenge and also a need.
Scalp Acupuncture Treatment Protocol for Anxiety Disorders: a Case Report
Authors: He Yuxin , Chen Jia , Pan Zimei , Ying Zhou
Published: December 2014

Anxiety disorders are among the most common psychiatric illnesses, and acupuncture treatment is widely accepted in the clinic without the side effects seen from various medications. We designed a scalp acupuncture treatment protocol by locating two new stimulation areas. The area one is between Yintang (M-HN-3) and Shangxing (DU-23) and Shenting (DU-24), and the area two is between Taiyang (M-HN-9) and Tianchong (GB-9) and Shuaigu (GB-8). By stimulating these two areas with high-frequency continuous electric waves, remarkable immediate and long-term effects for anxiety disorders have been observed in our practice. The first case was a 70-year-old male with general anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic attacks at night. The scalp acupuncture treatment protocol was applied with electric stimulation for 45 minutes once every week. After four sessions of acupuncture treatments, the patient reported that he did not have panic attacks at night and he had no feelings of anxiety during the day. Follow-up 4 weeks later confirmed that he did not have any episodes of panic attacks and he had no anxiety during the day since his last acupuncture treatment. The second case was a 35-year-old male who was diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with a history of providing frontline trauma care as a Combat Medics from the Iraq combat field. He also had 21 broken bones and multiple concussions from his time in the battlefield. He had symptoms of severe anxiety, insomnia, nightmares with flashbacks, irritability, and bad temper. He also had chest pain, back pain, and joint pain due to injuries. The above treatment protocol was performed with 30 minutes of electric stimulation each time in combination with body acupuncture for pain management. After weekly acupuncture treatment for the first two visits, the patient reported that he felt less anxious and that his sleep was getting better with fewer nightmares. After six sessions of acupuncture treatments, the patient completely recovered from PTSD, went back to work, and now lives a healthy and happy family life. The above cases and clinical observation show that the scalp acupuncture treatment protocol with electric stimulation has a significant clinic outcome for GAD, panic disorder and PTSD. The possible mechanism of action of scalp acupuncture on anxiety disorder may be related to overlapping modulatory effects on the cortical structures (orbitofrontal cortex [OFC]) and medial prefrontal cortex [mPFC]) and subcortical/limbic regions (amygdala and hippocampus), and biochemical effect of acupuncture through immunohistochemistry (norepinephrine, serotonin) performed directly to the brain tissue for anxiety disorders.