bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rv2744c Is a PspA Ortholog That Regulates Lipid Droplet Homeostasis and Nonreplicating Persistence in Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Armstrong Richard M. , Adams Katherine L. , Zilisch Joseph E. , Bretl Daniel J. , Sato Hiromi , Anderson David M. , Zahrt Thomas C.
Published: March 2016

Mycobacterium tuberculosis
, the causative agent of tuberculosis (TB), remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, despite the availability of a live attenuated vaccine and anti-TB antibiotics. The vast majority of individuals infected with
M. tuberculosis
develop an asymptomatic latent infection in which the bacterium survives within host-generated granulomatous lesions in a physiologically altered metabolic state of nonreplicating persistence. The granuloma represents an adverse environment, as
M. tuberculosis
is exposed to various stressors capable of disrupting the essential constituents of the bacterium. In Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, resistance to cell envelope stressors that perturb the plasma membrane is mediated in part by proteins comprising the phage shock protein (Psp) system. PspA is an important component of the Psp system; in the presence of envelope stress, PspA localizes to the inner face of the plasma membrane, homo-oligomerizes to form a large scaffold-like complex, and helps maintain plasma membrane integrity to prevent a loss of proton motive force.
M. tuberculosis
and other members of the
Mycobacterium
genus are thought to encode a minimal functional unit of the Psp system, including an ortholog of PspA. Here, we show that Rv2744c possesses structural and physical characteristics that are consistent with its designation as a PspA family member. However, although
Rv2744c
is upregulated under conditions of cell envelope stress, loss of
Rv2744c
does not alter resistance to cell envelope stressors. Furthermore, Rv2744c localizes to the surface of lipid droplets in
Mycobacterium
spp. and regulates lipid droplet number, size, and
M. tuberculosis
persistence during anaerobically induced dormancy. Collectively, our results indicate that Rv2744c is a bona fide ortholog of PspA that may function in a novel role to regulate lipid droplet homeostasis and nonreplicating persistence (NRP) in
M. tuberculosis
.

IMPORTANCE
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
is the causative agent of tuberculosis, a disease associated with significant morbidity and mortality worldwide.
M. tuberculosis
is capable of establishing lifelong asymptomatic infections in susceptible individuals and reactivating during periods of immune suppression to cause active disease. The determinants that are important for persistent infection of
M. tuberculosis
or for reactivation of this organism from latency are poorly understood. In this study, we describe our initial characterizations of Rv2744c, an ortholog of phage shock protein A (PspA) that regulates the homeostasis of lipid bodies and nonreplicating persistence in
M. tuberculosis
. This function of PspA in
M. tuberculosis
is novel and suggests that PspA may represent a unique bacterial target upon which to base therapeutic interventions against this organism.
Identification of the Three Genes Involved in Controlling Production of a Phytotoxin Tropolone in Burkholderia plantarii
Authors: Miwa Shunpei , Kihira Eri , Yoshioka Akinori , Nakasone Kaoru , Okamoto Sho , Hatano Masaki , Igarashi Masayuki , Eguchi Yoko , Kato Akinori , Ichikawa Natsuko , Sekine Mitsuo , Fujita Nobuyuki , Kanesaki Yu , Yoshikawa Hirofumi , Utsumi Ryutaro
Published: March 2016

Tropolone, a phytotoxin produced by
Burkholderia plantarii
, causes rice seedling blight. To identify genes involved in tropolone synthesis, we systematically constructed mutations in the genes encoding 55 histidine kinases and 72 response regulators. From the resulting defective strains, we isolated three mutants, KE1, KE2, and KE3, in which tropolone production was repressed. The deleted genes of these mutants were named
troR1
,
troK
, and
troR2
, respectively. The mutant strains did not cause rice seedling blight, and complementation experiments indicated that TroR1, TroK, and TroR2 were involved in the synthesis of tropolone in
B. plantarii
. However, tropolone synthesis was repressed in the TroR1 D52A, TroK H253A, and TroR2 D46A site-directed mutants. These results suggest that the putative sensor kinase (TroK) and two response regulators (TroR1 and TroR2) control the production of tropolone in
B. plantarii
.

IMPORTANCE
A two-component system is normally composed of a sensor histidine kinase (HK) and a cognate response regulator (RR) pair. In this study, HK (TroK) and two RRs (TroR1 and TroR2) were found to be involved in controlling tropolone production in
B. plantarii
. These three genes may be part of a bacterial signal transduction network. Such networks are thought to exist in other bacteria to regulate phytotoxin production, as well as environmental adaptation and signal transduction.
ABC-F Proteins Mediate Antibiotic Resistance through Ribosomal Protection
Authors: Sharkey Liam K. R. , Edwards Thomas A. , O’Neill Alex J.
Published: March 2016

Members of the ABC-F subfamily of ATP-binding cassette proteins mediate resistance to a broad array of clinically important antibiotic classes that target the ribosome of Gram-positive pathogens. The mechanism by which these proteins act has been a subject of long-standing controversy, with two competing hypotheses each having gained considerable support: antibiotic efflux versus ribosomal protection. Here, we report on studies employing a combination of bacteriological and biochemical techniques to unravel the mechanism of resistance of these proteins, and provide several lines of evidence that together offer clear support to the ribosomal protection hypothesis. Of particular note, we show that addition of purified ABC-F proteins to an
in vitro
translation assay prompts dose-dependent rescue of translation, and demonstrate that such proteins are capable of displacing antibiotic from the ribosome
in vitro
. To our knowledge, these experiments constitute the first direct evidence that ABC-F proteins mediate antibiotic resistance through ribosomal protection.

IMPORTANCE
Antimicrobial resistance ranks among the greatest threats currently facing human health. Elucidation of the mechanisms by which microorganisms resist the effect of antibiotics is central to understanding the biology of this phenomenon and has the potential to inform the development of new drugs capable of blocking or circumventing resistance. Members of the ABC-F family, which include
lsa
(A),
msr
(A),
optr
(A), and
vga
(A), collectively yield resistance to a broader range of clinically significant antibiotic classes than any other family of resistance determinants, although their mechanism of action has been controversial since their discovery 25 years ago. Here we present the first direct evidence that proteins of the ABC-F family act to protect the bacterial ribosome from antibiotic-mediated inhibition.
Anorexia nervosa: a mistaken diagnosis
Authors: Nicholls Katie , Boggis Nicola , Pandya Nikila
Published: March 2016

Eating disorders in the form of anorexia and bulimia are becoming increasingly common in young adults and children. Most of the patients are initially seen by their general practitioner (GP) and it may take several months before the facts are pieced together and an underlying eating disorder is identified. However, other medical conditions, albeit rare, should be considered when assessing these young adults as potentially missing them can lead to devastating consequences. This case highlights how a 15-year-old girl who presented to her GP with a history suggestive of an eating disorder and had a body mass index below the 0.4th centile, in fact had classical symptoms and clinical signs of primary adrenal failure, or Addison's disease.
Impact of socioeconomic deprivation on screening for cardiovascular disease risk in a primary prevention population: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Lang Sarah-Jane , Abel Gary A , Mant Jonathan , Mullis Ricky
Published: March 2016

Objectives

Investigate the association between socioeconomic deprivation and completeness of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factor recording in primary care, uptake of screening in people with incomplete risk factor recording and with actual CVD risk within the screened subgroup.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Nine UK general practices.

Participants

7987 people aged 50–74 years with no CVD diagnosis.

Methods

CVD risk was estimated using the Framingham equation from data extracted from primary care electronic health records. Where there was insufficient information to calculate risk, patients were invited to attend a screening assessment.

Analysis

Proportion of patients for whom clinical data were sufficiently complete to enable CVD risk to be calculated; proportion of patients invited to screening who attended; proportion of patients who attended screening whose 10-year risk of a cardiovascular event was high (>20%). For each outcome, a set of logistic regression models were run. Crude and adjusted ORs were estimated for person-level deprivation, age, gender and smoking status. We included practice-level deprivation as a continuous variable and practice as a random effect to account for clustering.

Results

People who had lower Indices of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) scores (less deprived) had significantly worse routine CVD risk factor recording (adjusted OR 0.97 (0.95 to 1.00) per IMD decile; p=0.042). Screening attendance was poorer in those with more deprivation (adjusted OR 0.89 (0.86 to 0.91) per IMD decile; p<0.001). Among those who attended screening, the most deprived were more likely to have CVD risk >20% (OR 1.09 (1.03 to 1.15) per IMD decile; p=0.004).

Conclusions

Our data suggest that those who had the most to gain from screening were least likely to attend, potentially exacerbating existing health inequalities. Future research should focus on tailoring the delivery of CVD screening to ensure engagement of socioeconomically deprived groups.
Sports injuries and ill-health episodes in the Cali 2013 World Games
Authors: Llinás Paulo José , Serrano Rafael Fernando , Quintero Barrera Laureano , Quiceno Noguera Juan Carlos , Martinez Cano Juan Pablo
Published: March 2016

Background

The World Games is a multisport event, second in importance only to the Olympic Games. Systematic surveillance of injuries and ill-health episodes is an essential part of modern integral healthcare given to athletes.

Aim

To describe and analyse injuries and ill-health episodes affecting competitors during the Cali World Games 2013.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study of injuries and ill-health episodes suffered by competing athletes. Entries to the registry were systematically recorded by official doctors and medical staff at the Games, and included attention to emergencies at the sport venues and data of reports received from health facilities around the city.

Results

In all, 2824 athletes, 1216 women and 1608 men, participated in the 2013 Cali World Games. There were 88 injuries and 29 ill-health episodes, for an overall incidence of 31.2 injuries and 10.3 ill-health episodes per 1000 athletes, over an 11 day period. The highest incidence of sport associated injuries affected jiu-jitsu athletes. Hands were the most common site of injury. Injury rates for men and women were 35.5 and 25.5/1000 athletes, respectively, (RR=1.41, 95% CI 0.90 to 2.19, p=0.066). National delegations with less than 25 athletes suffered more injuries compared to larger delegations, with 40.9 vs 29.2 injuries per 1000 athletes (RR 1.4, 95% CI 0.85 to 2.30, p=0.12). The gastrointestinal system was the most affected by illness. The sport where most competitors suffered ill-health episodes was softball. The rate of ill-health episodes in women was 15/1000, and for men 6.8/1000 athletes (RR=2.16, 95% CI 1.03 to 4.56, p=0.038).

Conclusions

3.1% of the athletes had sport-related injuries, and 1% had at least one episode of ill health. These are low numbers compared to other multisport events such as the Olympic Games. Men had a higher incidence of injuries, and women a higher incidence of episodes of ill health. Future World Games should improve data-collection strategies and develop preventive measures accordingly.
‘You're never making just one decision’: exploring the lived experiences of ambulance Emergency Operations Centre personnel
Authors: Coxon Astrid , Cropley Mark , Schofield Pat , Start Kath , Horsfield Claire , Quinn Tom
Published: March 2016

Background

The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of ambulance dispatch personnel, identifying key stressors and their impact on staff well-being.

Methods

Qualitative methodology was used. Nine semistructured interviews were conducted with National Health Service (NHS) ambulance Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) dispatch personnel in the UK between July and August 2014. Participants were asked about their experiences of the role, stress experienced and current strategies they use to deal with stress. Transcripts were analysed using an inductive, bottom-up thematic analysis.

Results

Three key themes were identified: (1) ‘How dispatch is perceived by others’, (2) ‘What dispatch really involves’ and (3) ‘Dealing with the stresses of dispatch’. All participants expressed pride in their work, but felt overloaded by the workload and undervalued by others. Several sources of additional stress, not directly related to the execution of their work, were identified, including the need to mentally unwind from work at the end of a shift. Participants were able to identify a number of ways in which they currently manage work-related stress, but they also suggested changes the organisation could put in place in order to reduce stress in the working environment.

Conclusions

Building on existing theory on work stress and postwork recovery, it was concluded that EOC dispatch staff require greater support at work, including skills training to promote postshift recovery, in order to reduce the likelihood of sickness absence, and prevent work-related fatigue.
Plasma DNA methylation: a potential biomarker for stratification of liver fibrosis in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Hardy Timothy , Zeybel Mujdat , Day Christopher P , Dipper Christian , Masson Steven , McPherson Stuart , Henderson Elsbeth , Tiniakos Dina , White Steve , French Jeremy , Mann Derek A , Anstee Quentin M , Mann Jelena
Published: March 2016

Objective

Liver biopsy is currently the most reliable way of evaluating liver fibrosis in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Its inherent risks limit its widespread use. Differential liver DNA methylation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) gene promoter has recently been shown to stratify patients in terms of fibrosis severity but requires access to liver tissue. The aim of this study was to assess whether DNA methylation of circulating DNA could be detected in human plasma and potentially used to stratify liver fibrosis severity in patients with NAFLD.

Design

Patients with biopsy-proven NAFLD and age-matched controls were recruited from the liver and gastroenterology clinics at the Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Plasma cell-free circulating DNA methylation of PPARγ was quantitatively assessed by pyrosequencing. Liver DNA methylation was quantitatively assessed by pyrosequencing NAFLD explant tissue, subjected to laser capture microdissection (LCM). Patients with alcoholic liver disease (ALD) were also subjected to plasma DNA and LCM pyrosequencing.

Results

26 patients with biopsy-proven NAFLD were included. Quantitative plasma DNA methylation of PPARγ stratified patients into mild (Kleiner 1–2) and severe (Kleiner 3–4) fibrosis (CpG1: 63% vs 86%, p<0.05; CpG2: 51% vs 65% p>0.05). Hypermethylation at the PPARγ promoter of plasma DNA correlated with changes in hepatocellular rather than myofibroblast DNA methylation. Similar results were demonstrated in patients with ALD cirrhosis.

Conclusions

Differential DNA methylation at the PPARγ promoter can be detected within the pool of cell-free DNA of human plasma. With further validation, plasma DNA methylation of PPARγ could potentially be used to non-invasively stratify liver fibrosis severity in patients with NAFLD. Plasma DNA methylation signatures reflect the molecular pathology associated with fibrotic liver disease.
Diagnostics for pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Cudahy Patrick , Shenoi Sheela V
Published: March 2016

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a leading cause of human suffering and mortality despite decades of effective treatment being available. Accurate and timely diagnosis remains an unmet goal. The HIV epidemic has also led to new challenges in the diagnosis of TB. Several new developments in TB diagnostics have the potential to positively influence the global campaign against TB. We aim to review the performance of both established as well as new diagnostics for pulmonary TB in adults, and discuss the ongoing challenges.
Boswellic acid disables signal transduction of IL-6–STAT-3 in Ehrlich ascites tumor bearing irradiated mice
Authors: Moustafa Enas Mahmoud , Thabet Noura Magdy , Azab Khaled Shaaban
Published: March 2016

Boswellic acid (BA) is known for its ability to trigger apoptosis as well as to inhibit angiogenesis in tumor tissue. In this study, we investigated the effect of BA on the IL-6–STAT-3 signalling pathway in irradiated mice bearing solid tumors of Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC). For this, we administered BA (25 mg·(kg body mass)–1·day–1, by intraperitoneal injection) to mice with EAC, and then exposed them to 4 Gy of gamma radiation. Data analyses of the results revealed a specific impact from BA on IL-6R mRNA and survivin mRNA in EACs and irradiated EAC-bearing mice. Also, significant improvements were observed in the protein expression of JAK-1, P-JAK-1, STAT-3, P-STAT-3, and caspase-3, as well as VEGF and IL-6 levels. We propose that BA interfered with IL-6–STAT-3 signal transduction, thereby preventing the activation of caspase-3 and subsequently triggering the process of apoptosis. However, the alternative angiogenesis pathway, which includes the over-expression of VEGF and which depends on IL-6–STAT-3 signalling, was inhibited by the action of BA. Thus, we recommend that therapeutic strategies for cancer should include treatment with BA.
Effects of test procedure on flat dilatometer test (DMT) results in intermediate soils
Authors: Schnaid F. , Odebrecht E. , Sosnoski J. , Robertson P.K.
Published: March 2016

The evaluation of rate effects on the flat dilatometer test (DMT) can best be developed with some knowledge of the excess pore pressures generated during penetration, dissipation, and subsequent membrane expansion. While research that includes pore pressure measurements in the DMT has documented drainage conditions in clean sand and soft clay, further studies are required to determine the drainage conditions during the DMT in intermediate permeability soils, such as silts. For that purpose, a simple and inexpensive research device has been developed for monitoring pore pressures at the center of the DMT blade. Data using both a standard DMT and the modified research DMT from various tests in sand, silt, and clay have been compared in a space that correlates dimensionless velocity to degree of drainage. In this space, it is possible to evaluate whether partial drainage is taking place. Measurements indicate that the DMT is essentially undrained in soft clay and dominated by penetration pore pressures, is drained in clean sand and is partially drained in intermediate permeability soils, such as silt. A method is suggested to identify soils where partial drainage may influence the standard DMT results.
A 6 year longitudinal study of post-fire woody carbon dynamics in California’s forests
Authors: Eskelson Bianca N.I. , Monleon Vicente J. , Fried Jeremy S.
Published: March 2016

We examined the dynamics of aboveground forest woody carbon pools — live trees, standing dead trees, and down wood — during the first 6 years following wildfire across a wide range of conditions, which are characteristic of California forest fires. From repeated measurements of the same plots, we estimated change in woody carbon pools as a function of crown fire severity as indicated by a post-fire index, years since fire, pre-fire woody carbon, forest type group (hardwood vs. softwood), elevation, and climate attributes. Our analysis relied on 130 U.S. national forest inventory plots measured before and 1 year after fire, with one additional remeasurement within 6 years after fire. There was no evidence of net change in total wood carbon, defined for this study as the wood in standing trees larger than 12.7 cm diameter at breast height and down wood larger than 7.6 cm in diameter, over the post-fire period in any of the three severity classes. Stands that burned at low severity exhibited considerable shifts from live to standing dead and down wood pools. In stands that burned at moderate severity, live wood decreased significantly whereas no net change was detected in standing dead or down wood. High severity fire burning resulted in movement from standing dead to down wood pools. Our results suggest that the carbon trajectories for stand-replacing fires may not be appropriate for the majority of California’s forest area that burned at low to moderate severities.
Monoamine oxidase inhibition improves vascular function in mammary arteries from nondiabetic and diabetic patients with coronary heart disease
Authors: Lighezan Rodica , Sturza Adrian , Duicu Oana M. , Ceausu Raluca A. , Vaduva Adrian , Gaspar Marian , Feier Horea , Vaida Monica , Ivan Viviana , Lighezan Daniel , Muntean Danina M. , Mornos Cristian
Published: March 2016

Monoamine oxidases (MAOs) are mitochondrial enzymes with 2 isoforms that have emerged as important contributors to cardiovascular oxidative stress via the constant generation of hydrogen peroxide. The present study was purported to assess whether MAO-derived H2O2 contributes to the endothelial dysfunction in mammary arteries harvested from coronary heart disease patients with and without diabetes mellitus subjected to coronary artery bypass grafting. To this aim, the effects of MAO inhibition on vascular contractility to phenylephrine and endothelial-dependent relaxation (EDR) in response to acetylcholine were studied in vascular segments. Clorgyline (irreversible MAO-A inhibitor), selegiline (irreversible MAO-B inhibitor), and moclobemide (reversible MAO-A inhibitor) were applied in the organ bath (10 μmol/L). MAO expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry. We found a constant impairment of EDR that has been significantly attenuated in the presence of the MAO-A and MAO-B inhibitors in both groups of coronary heart disease patients. MAO-B was the dominant isoform in all human diseased vessels. In conclusion, in vitro inhibition of MAO significantly improved EDR in human mammary arteries, regardless of the presence of diabetes. These data suggest that MAO inhibitors might be useful in restoring endothelial response in clinical conditions associated with increased oxidative stress, such as coronary artery disease and diabetes.
The Lagrangians in Rξ gauge of the left–right twin Higgs model and the application to processes gg → h and h → γγ
Authors: Liu Guo-Li , Li Jun-Peng , Guo Xiao-Fei , Han Xiao-Fang
Published: March 2016

The left–right twin Higgs (LRTH) model, which adds an extra set of the Higgs to the Standard Model (SM) Higgs spectrum by the left–right discrete symmetry, is one of the phenomenological realization of the new physics models to solve the little hierarchy problem. In this paper, we will, in the [Formula: see text] gauge, give the complete Lagrangians in this new physics model and then apply them to the processes [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text].
Using LibQUAL Model for Improving the Level of Students’ Satisfaction from Quality of Services in Academic Libraries: A Case Study in North Khorasan Province, Iran
Authors: Pourahmad Ali Akbar , Neshat Mehdi , Hasani Mohammad Reza
Published: March 2016

The most important aim of the research is to evaluate and analyse the quality level of services of four different university libraries which are located in the North Khorasan province in Iran. The statistical populations included various students from different branches and they were chosen as samples. For collecting data, the survey method was applied; meanwhile, data collection tool, specific questionnaire were used since that each of the four components for quality estimation of services was calculated using LibQUAL tool. The mean total services for university libraries of North Khorasan were negative in terms of service fitness gap, which means that libraries were not capable of satisfying the minimum anticipation of their users. Interestingly, for all library services, gap was negative too. In other words, libraries are far from rewarding the expectations of students associated with the most desirable (maximum) level of services.
High-voltage thin-film supercapacitor with nano-structured electrodes and novel architecture
Authors: Zhang Ye , Rajamani Rajesh
Published: March 2016

With increasing interest in wearable sensors and electronics, there is an increasing need for thin-film electrical energy storage devices such as flexible solid state supercapacitors. A thin solid state multi-cell supercapacitor of high operating voltage and high areal energy density that utilizes a graphene and carbon nanotube (CNT) composite for electrodes is presented. The supercapacitor can be fabricated with just wet coating and laser reduction processes which can be easily scaled to make larger devices.
The Existence of WeakD-Pullback Exponential Attractor for Nonautonomous Dynamical System
Authors: Li Yongjun , Wei Xiaona , Zhang Yanhong
Published: March 2016

First, for a processU(t,τ)∣t≥τ, we introduce a new concept, called the weakD-pullback exponential attractor, which is a family of setsM(t)∣t≤T, for anyT∈R, satisfying the following: (i)M(t)is compact, (ii)M(t)is positively invariant, that is,U(t,τ)M(τ)⊂M(t), and (iii) there existk,l>0such thatdist(U(t,τ)B(τ),M(t))≤ke-(t-τ); that is,M(t)pullback exponential attractsB(τ). Then we give a method to obtain the existence of weakD-pullback exponential attractors for a process. As an application, we obtain the existence of weakD-pullback exponential attractor for reaction diffusion equation inH01with exponential growth of the external force.
Current Data on Risk Factor Estimates Does Not Explain the Difference in Rates of Melanoma between Hispanics and Non-Hispanic Whites
Authors: Kamath Sonia , Miller Kimberly A. , Cockburn Myles G.
Published: March 2016

United States Hispanics have seven times lower melanoma incidence rates than non-Hispanic whites (NHW). It is unclear whether this difference can be explained solely by phenotypic risk factors, like darker skin, or whether modifiable risk factors, like sun exposure, also play a role. The purpose of this paper is to summarize what is currently known about melanoma risk factors among Hispanics and NHWs, and whether or not those differences could explain the difference in melanoma incidence. Through literature review, relative risks and prevalence of melanoma risk factors in Hispanics and NHWs were identified and used to calculate the expected rate in Hispanics and rate ratio compared to NHWs. We found that melanoma risk factors either have similar frequency in Hispanics and NHWs (e.g., many large nevi) or are less frequent in Hispanics but do not explain a high proportion of disease variation (e.g., red hair). Considering current knowledge of risk factor prevalence, we found that melanoma incidence rates in the two groups should actually be similar. Sun exposure behavior among Hispanics may contribute to the explanation for the 7-fold difference in melanoma rates. Currently, limited data exist on sun exposure behavior among Hispanics, but possibilities for improving primary prevention by further studying these practices are substantial.
Comparison of Imaging Characteristics of124I PET for Determination of Optimal Energy Window on the Siemens Inveon PET
Authors: Yu A Ram , Kim Hee-Joung , Lim Sang Moo , Kim Jin Su
Published: March 2016

Purpose.124I has a half-life of 4.2 days, which makes it suitable for imaging over several days over its uptake and washout phases. However, it has a low positron branching ratio (23%), because of prompt gamma coincidence due to high-energyγ-photons (602 to 1,691 keV), which are emitted in cascade with positrons.Methods.In this study, we investigated the optimal PET energy window for124I PET based on image characteristics of reconstructed PET. Image characteristics such as nonuniformities, recovery coefficients (RCs), and the spillover ratios (SORs) of124I were measured as described in NEMA NU 4-2008 standards.Results.The maximum and minimum prompt gamma coincidence fraction (PGF) were 33% and 2% in 350~800 and 400~590 keV, respectively. The difference between best and worst uniformity in the various energy windows was less than 1%. The lowest SORs of124I were obtained at 350~750 keV in nonradioactive water compartment.Conclusion.Optimal energy window should be determined based on image characteristics. Our developed correction method would be useful for the correction of high-energy prompt gamma photon in124I PET. In terms of the image quality of124I PET, our findings indicate that an energy window of 350~750 keV would be optimal.
Epidemiology ofPlasmodiumand Helminth Coinfection and Possible Reasons for Heterogeneity
Authors: Degarege Abraham , Erko Berhanu
Published: March 2016

Understanding the impact of helminth infections on clinical malaria is useful for designing effective malaria control strategies. Plenty of epidemiological studies have been conducted to unravel the nature of interactions betweenPlasmodiumand helminth infection. Careful broad summarization of the existing literature suggests thatSchistosoma mansoniand hookworm infections may increase the risk of clinical malaria and associated morbidities, butTrichuris trichiurainfection is not associated with the occurrence of clinical malaria and related outcomes. However, findings about effect ofAscaris lumbricoidesandSchistosoma haematobiuminfection on clinical malaria are contradictory. Furthermore, the nature of relationship of helminth infection with severe malaria has also not been determined with certainty. This review summarizes the findings of epidemiological studies ofPlasmodiumand helminth coinfection, placing greater emphasis on the impact of the coinfection on malaria. Possible reasons for the heterogeneity of the findings on malaria and helminth coinfections are also discussed.
Detection of Wideband Signal Number Based on Bootstrap Resampling
Authors: Zhen Jiaqi
Published: March 2016

Knowing source number correctly is the precondition for most spatial spectrum estimation methods; however, many snapshots are needed when we determine number of wideband signals. Therefore, a new method based on Bootstrap resampling is proposed in this paper. First, signals are divided into some nonoverlapping subbands; apply coherent signal methods (CSM) to focus them on the single frequency. Then, fuse the eigenvalues with the corresponding eigenvectors of the focused covariance matrix. Subsequently, use Bootstrap to construct the new resampling matrix. Finally, the number of wideband signals can be calculated with obtained vector sequences according to clustering technique. The method has a high probability of success under low signal to noise ratio (SNR) and small number of snapshots.
The Modelling and Control of a Singular Biological Economic System in a Polluted Environment
Authors: Zhang Yi , Jie Yueming , Meng Xinyou
Published: March 2016

A singular biological economic model with harvesting and stage structure is presented. The local stability of equilibriums of the system is investigated when the economic profit parameter is zero, and the conditions of the singularity induced bifurcation occurring at the positive equilibrium are obtained by the singular systems theory and bifurcation theory. In order to eliminate the singularity induced bifurcation, a state feedback controller is designed by controlling the fishing effort. At last, an application example is given to illustrate the validity of the theoretical results.
Combined Thenar and Hypothenar Hammer Syndromes and Raynaud’s Phenomenon Successfully Treated with Iloprost
Authors: Ciapetti Alessandro , Carotti Marina , Di Carlo Marco , Salaffi Fausto
Published: March 2016

Thenar and hypothenar hammer syndromes are uncommon conditions characterised by digital ischemia of the hand as a result of repetitive trauma at level of the thenar and/or hypothenar eminence and damage to the radial and/or ulnar arteries, respectively. The symptoms are related to the mechanism of the trauma and a Raynaud’s phenomenon can be predominant for a long time. The angiography is the “gold standard” imaging technique which allows to confirm the diagnosis. Therapeutic strategy depends on the type of the lesion and severity of symptoms and includes pharmacological (antithrombotic and thrombolytic drugs) and surgical treatments. The authors present a case of a 53-year-old man, carpenter by profession, with combined thenar and hypothenar hammer syndromes and Raynaud’s phenomenon, successfully treated with a short course of intravenous infusion of iloprost.
A Mathematical Model of Communication with Reputational Concerns
Authors: Huang Ce , Zhang Yuanyuan , Lai Chong
Published: March 2016

We investigate a mathematical model where an expert advises a decision maker for two periods. The decision maker is initially unsure about whether the expert is biased or not. After consulting the expert on the decision problem of period one, the decision maker updates belief about the expert’s bias and consults the expert on the problem of period two. We find that more information is delivered in the model’s first period than in the one-period situation of communication.
A Tongue Lesion as a Sign of a Systemic Disease
Authors: Liakou Chrysoula I. , Koh Joan , Tsimpidakis Antonios , Rios Katrina , Paskalis Charalabos , Pipilis Athanasios , Kantianis Dimitrios , Georgiadis Thomas , Razis Evangelia
Published: March 2016

Amyloidosis is the extracellular fibril deposition of a variety of proteins, many of which circulate as plasma ingredients. It is a disease difficult to identify due to its nonspecific symptoms and manifestations. Amyloidosis of the tongue, either isolated or part of the systemic disease, is rare and its features resemble those of a tumor. We report the case of a patient with amyloidosis who presented with a tongue lesion, weakness, nonspecific arthritis, and dyspnea on exertion that resulted in multiorgan system failure.
Analysis of Non-Small Bowel Lesions Detected by Capsule Endoscopy in Patients with Potential Small Bowel Bleeding
Authors: Akin Fatma Ebru , Yurekli Oyku Tayfur , Demirezer Bolat Aylin , Tahtacı Mustafa , Koseoglu Huseyin , Selvi Eyup , Buyukasik Naciye Semnur , Ersoy Osman
Published: March 2016

Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding cases in whom source cannot be identified after conventional upper and lower GI endoscopy are defined as potential small bowel bleeding. We aimed to search for lesions in the reach of conventional endoscopy in patients to whom video capsule endoscopy (VCE) had been applied for potential small bowel bleeding. 114 patients who had VCE evaluation for potential small bowel bleeding between January 2009 and August 2015 were retrospectively evaluated. Mean age of the patients was 55 ± 17 years. Female/male ratio is 39/75. In 58 patients (50.9%) bleeding lesion could be determined. Among these 58 patients 8 patients’ lesions were in the reach of conventional endoscopes. Overall these 8 patients comprised 7% of patients in whom VCE was performed for potential small bowel bleeding. Among these 8 patients 5 had colonic lesions (4 angiodysplasia, 1 ulcerated polypoid cecal lesion), 2 had gastric lesions (1 GAVE, 1 anastomotic bleeding), and 1 patient had a bleeding lesion in the duodenal bulbus. Although capsule endoscopy is usually performed for potential small bowel bleeding gastroenterologists should always keep in mind that these patients may be suffering from bleeding from non-small bowel segments and should carefully review images captured from non-small bowel areas.
Treatment Buddies Improve Clinic Attendance among Women but Not Men on Antiretroviral Therapy in the Nyanza Region of Kenya
Authors: Kibaara Charles , Blat Cinthia , Lewis-Kulzer Jayne , Shade Starley , Mbullo Patrick , Cohen Craig R. , Bukusi Elizabeth A.
Published: March 2016

Background.Kenyan antiretroviral (ART) guidelines encourage treatment buddies (TBy) to maximize treatment adherence. This study examined the effect of TBys on clinic attendance in men and women on ART.Methods.This retrospective cohort study included all adult patients initiating ART from August 2007 to December 2011 at four health facilities in Kenya. Data were abstracted from electronic medical records and analyzed using Poisson regression.Results.Of 2,430 patients, 2,199 (91%) had a TBy. Relationship between TBy and clinic attendance differed in females and males (interactionp=0.09). After demographic and clinic factor adjustment, females with a TBy were 28% more likely to adhere to all appointments than those without (adjusted aRR = 1.28; 95% CI 1.08–1.53), whereas males were no more likely to adhere (aRR = 1.01; 95% CI 0.76–1.32). Males reported partner/spouse (33%) or brother (11%) as the TBy while females reported sister (17%), partner/spouse (14%), or another family member (12%). Multivariable analysis found no association between clinic attendance and TBy relationship in either gender.Conclusion.Clinic attendance was higher among women with TBys but not men. Results support TBys to help women achieve ART success; alternate strategies to bolster TBy benefits are needed for men.
Coverage Enhancement Algorithms for Distributed Mobile Sensors Deployment in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Aliyu Muhammad Sirajo , Abdullah Abdul Hanan , Chizari Hassan , Sabbah Thabit , Altameem Ayman
Published: March 2016

Sensor nodes in wireless sensor networks are deployed to observe the surroundings for some phenomenon of interest. The fundamental issue in observing such environments is the area coverage which reflects how well the region is monitored. The nonuniform sensor nodes distribution in a certain region caused by random deployment might lead to coverage holes/gaps in the network. One of the solutions to improve area coverage after initial deployment is by sensor nodes mobility. However, the main challenge in this approach is how to increase area coverage with the least energy consumption. This research work aims to improve area coverage with minimal energy consumption and faster convergence rate. The Edge Based Centroid (EBC) algorithm is presented to improve the area coverage with faster convergence rate in a distributed network. The simulation based performance evaluations of the proposed algorithms are carried out in terms of area coverage, convergence rate, and energy efficiency. Compared to the existing works, EBC improved area coverage with faster convergence. It is concluded that the proposed algorithm has improved area coverage with faster convergence and minimal energy consumption.
Factors Influencing Attitude, Safety Behavior, and Knowledge regarding Household Waste Management in Guinea: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Mamady Keita
Published: March 2016

Waste indiscriminate disposal is recognized as an important cause of environmental pollution and is associated with health problems. Safe management and disposal of household waste are an important problem to the capital city of Guinea (Conakry). The objective of this study was to identify socioeconomic and demographic factors associated with practice, knowledge, and safety behavior of family members regarding household waste management and to produce a remedial action plan. I found that no education background, income, and female individuals were independently associated with indiscriminate waste disposal. Unplanned residential area was an additional factor associated with indiscriminate waste disposal. I also found that the community residents had poor knowledge and unsafe behavior in relation to waste management. The promotion of environmental information and public education and implementation of community action programs on disease prevention and health promotion will enhance environmental friendliness and safety of the community.
Effects of Bergamot (Citrus bergamia (Risso) Wright & Arn.) Essential Oil Aromatherapy on Mood States, Parasympathetic Nervous System Activity, and Salivary Cortisol Levels in 41 Healthy Females
Authors: Watanabe Eri , Kuchta Kenny , Kimura Mari , Rauwald Hans Wilhelm , Kamei Tsutomu , Imanishi Jiro
Published: March 2016

Background: Bergamot essential oil (BEO) is commonly used against psychological stress and anxiety in aromatherapy. The primary aim of the present study was to obtain first clinical evidence for these psychological and physiological effects. A secondary aim was to achieve some fundamental understanding of the relevant pharmacological processes. Methods: Endocrinological, physiological, and psychological effects of BEO vapor inhalation on 41 healthy females were tested using a random crossover study design. Volunteers were exposed to 3 experimental setups (rest (R), rest + water vapor (RW), rest + water vapor + bergamot essential oil (RWB)) for 15 min each. Immediately after each setup, saliva samples were collected and the volunteers rested for 10 min. Subsequently, they completed the Profile of Mood States, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and Fatigue Self-Check List. High-frequency (HF) heart rate values, an indicator for parasympathetic nervous system activity, were calculated from heart rate variability values measured both during the 15 min of the experiment and during the subsequent 10 min of rest. Salivary cortisol (CS) levels in the saliva samples were analyzed using ELISA. Results: CS of all 3 conditions R, RW, and RWB were found to be significantly distinct (p = 0.003). In the subsequent multiple comparison test, the CS value of RWB was significantly lower when compared to the R setup. When comparing the HF values of the RWB setup during the 10 min of rest after the experiment to those of RW, this parameter was significantly increased (p = 0.026) in the RWB setup for which scores for negative emotions and fatigue were also improved. Conclusion: These results demonstrate that BEO inhaled together with water vapor exerts psychological and physiological effects in a relatively short time.
Autonomic Function in Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis and Acupuncture - an Experimental Pilot Study within a Randomized Trial
Authors: Ortiz Miriam , Brinkhaus Benno , Enck Paul , Musial Frauke , Zimmermann-Viehoff Frank
Published: March 2016

Background: Acupuncture was shown to reduce symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR). The present study investigated (a) whether autonomic function would differ in SAR patients and healthy controls, and (b) whether acupuncture treatment would evoke changes in autonomic function compared to sham acupuncture. Patients and Methods: SAR patients (n = 30) were recruited from a larger randomized controlled trial investigating the efficacy of acupuncture in SAR. 21 patients received acupuncture, and 9 patients received sham acupuncture. Among other we measured resting heart rate variability and cardiovascular reactivity to a cold pressure test prior to and after 12 sessions of acupuncture or sham acupuncture. In addition, 30 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were tested once. Results: SAR patients showed higher resting heart rate and lower heart rate variability as well as blunted cardiovascular responses compared to controls. After treatment, resting heart rate had decreased, and systolic blood pressure response to the cold pressure test had increased in SAR patients. We found no significant differences in autonomic function changes between patients receiving acupuncture or sham acupuncture. Conclusion: SAR patients showed alterations in autonomic function, which had partially normalized after treatment. However, in this sample we found no specific effect of acupuncture compared to sham acupuncture.
Stellenwert und Funktion von Ayahuasca: Ein Vergleich der Anwendungen durch Schamanen und Kirchen
Authors: Linhart Sylvia
Published: March 2016

Ayahuasca wurde schon in präkolumbianischer Zeit eingenommen, als indigene Völker die psychoaktive Wirkung des Tranks auf Körper und Geist entdeckten. Hergestellt aus zwei im Amazonas-Regenwald wachsenden Pflanzen, der Liane Banisteriopsis caapi und Blättern von Psychotria viridis, wird Ayahuasca bis heute nicht nur von Schamanen am Amazonas für Heilrituale und schamanische Erfahrungen, sondern auch von kirchlichen Bewegungen Brasiliens als Sakrament eingesetzt. In den letzten Jahren gab Ayahuasca wegen seiner heilenden Wirkung immer häufiger Anlass zu medizinischer und ethnobotanischer Diskussion und Forschung. Die vorliegende Literatur- und Feldstudie beschäftigt sich mit den beiden Haupteinsatzbereichen von Ayahuasca: dem rituellen Gebrauch bei Schamanen und dem Sakrament in christlichen Kirchen. Anwendungsformen des Tranks werden beschrieben und Unterschiede aufgezeigt. Da immer mehr Menschen westlicher Kulturen Kenntnis von und Zugang zu dieser «Medizin» des Amazonas-Regenwalds erlangten, bildet die Frage, ob Ayahuasca ein geeignetes Heilmittel für spezifische Leiden und westliche Zivilisationskrankheiten sein kann, einen weiteren Schwerpunkt der Untersuchung. Bereits heute wird Ayahuasca erfolgreich im medizinisch-therapeutischen Bereich bei Depressionen und Suchtabhängigkeit eingesetzt. Darüber hinaus belegen klinische Studien, dass die dauerhafte, längerfristige Einnahme des Tranks nicht gesundheitsschädlich oder giftig ist und auch nicht abhängig macht. Es konnte sogar ein dauerhafter, positiver Einfluss auf die physische und mentale Gesamtverfassung des Menschen beobachtet werden. Vor dem Hintergrund dieser Erkenntnisse bedarf es noch konsequenter Aufklärung und Erarbeitung sinnvoller gesetzlicher Regelungen sowie internationaler Zulassungen, damit Ayahuasca künftig leichter Heilungssuchenden zugänglich gemacht werden kann.
Condurango 30C Induces Epigenetic Modification of Lung Cancer-specific Tumour Suppressor Genes via Demethylation
Authors: Khuda-Bukhsh Anisur R. , Sikdar Sourav
Published: March 2016

Background: DNA hypermethylation induces cancer progression involving CpG island of DNA and causes inactivation of tumour suppressor genes. In this study, DNA hypermethylation status of lung cancer and ability of ultra-highly diluted Condurango 30C to modulate DNA methylation were ascertained by analysis of lung cancer-specific tumour suppressor genes in respect to placebo. Materials and Methods: DNA methylation status, if any, was determined by PCR-SSCP analyses in lung cancer-specific tumour suppressor genes (p15, p16 and p53) using H460-NSCLC cell and BaP-induced lung cancer of rats. The ability of Condurango 30C to modulate DNA methylation, if any, was verified against placebo control in blinded manner. Results: Condurango 30C-treated DNA showed significant decrease in band intensity of p15 and p53 genes especially in methylated condition in vitro, at IC50 dose (2.43µl/100µl). SSCP analysis of p15 and p53 genes in Condurango 30C-treated DNA also suggests that Condurango 30C can decrease methylation, in vitro. Inhibition of p15 hypermethylation was observed in post-cancer treatment of rats with Condurango 30C. SSCP results gave a better indication of differences in band position of p15 and p53 in Condurango 30C-treated lung samples. Conclusion: Condurango 30C could trigger epigenetic modification in lung cancer via modulation of DNA hypermethylation.