bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Funding Decisions for Newborn Screening: A Comparative Review of 22 Decision Processes in Europe
Authors: Fischer Katharina , Rogowski Wolf
Published: May 2014

Decision-makers need to make choices to improve public health. Population-based newborn screening (NBS) is considered as one strategy to prevent adverse health outcomes and address rare disease patients’ needs. The aim of this study was to describe key characteristics of decisions for funding new NBS programmes in Europe. We analysed past decisions using a conceptual framework. It incorporates indicators that capture the steps of decision processes by health care payers. Based on an internet survey, we compared 22 decisions for which answers among two respondents were validated for each observation. The frequencies of indicators were calculated to elicit key characteristics. All decisions resulted in positive, mostly unrestricted funding. Stakeholder participation was diverse focusing on information provision or voting. Often, decisions were not fully transparent. Assessment of NBS technologies concentrated on expert opinion, literature review and rough cost estimates. Most important appraisal criteria were effectiveness (i.e., health gain from testing for the children being screened), disease severity and availability of treatments. Some common and diverging key characteristics were identified. Although no evidence of explicit healthcare rationing was found, processes may be improved in respect of transparency and scientific rigour of assessment.
Marine Microbial Metagenomics: From Individual to the Environment
Authors: Tseng Ching-Hung , Tang Sen-Lin
Published: May 2014

Microbes are the most abundant biological entities on earth, therefore, studying them is important for understanding their roles in global ecology. The science of metagenomics is a relatively young field of research that has enjoyed significant effort since its inception in 1998. Studies using next-generation sequencing techniques on single genomes and collections of genomes have not only led to novel insights into microbial genomics, but also revealed a close association between environmental niches and genome evolution. Herein, we review studies investigating microbial genomics (largely in the marine ecosystem) at the individual and community levels to summarize our current understanding of microbial ecology in the environment.
Cancer Stem Cell Theory and the Warburg Effect, Two Sides of the Same Coin?
Authors: Pacini Nicola , Borziani Fabio
Published: May 2014

Over the last 100 years, many studies have been performed to determine the biochemical and histopathological phenomena that mark the origin of neoplasms. At the end of the last century, the leading paradigm, which is currently well rooted, considered the origin of neoplasms to be a set of genetic and/or epigenetic mutations, stochastic and independent in a single cell, or rather, a stochastic monoclonal pattern. However, in the last 20 years, two important areas of research have underlined numerous limitations and incongruities of this pattern, the hypothesis of the so-called cancer stem cell theory and a revaluation of several alterations in metabolic networks that are typical of the neoplastic cell, the so-called Warburg effect. Even if this specific “metabolic sign” has been known for more than 85 years, only in the last few years has it been given more attention; therefore, the so-called Warburg hypothesis has been used in multiple and independent surveys. Based on an accurate analysis of a series of considerations and of biophysical thermodynamic events in the literature, we will demonstrate a homogeneous pattern of the cancer stem cell theory, of the Warburg hypothesis and of the stochastic monoclonal pattern; this pattern could contribute considerably as the first basis of the development of a new uniform theory on the origin of neoplasms. Thus, a new possible epistemological paradigm is represented; this paradigm considers the Warburg effect as a specific “metabolic sign” reflecting the stem origin of the neoplastic cell, where, in this specific metabolic order, an essential reason for the genetic instability that is intrinsic to the neoplastic cell is defined.
Synthesis, Molecular Docking and Biological Evaluation of Glycyrrhizin Analogs as Anticancer Agents Targeting EGFR
Authors: Yang Yong-An , Tang Wen-Jian , Zhang Xin , Yuan Ji-Wen , Liu Xin-Hua , Zhu Hai-Liang
Published: May 2014

Glycyrrhizin (GA) analogs in the form of 3-glucuronides and 18-epimers were synthesized and their anticancer activities were evaluated. Alkaline isomerization of monoglucuronides is reported. In vitro and in vivo studies showed that glycyrrhetinic acid monoglucuronides (GAMGs) displayed higher anticancer activities than those of bisglucuronide GA analogs, while anticancer activity of the 18α-epimer was superior to that of the 18β-epimer. 18α-GAMG was firstly nicely bound to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) via six hydrogen bonds and one charge interaction, and the docking calculation proved the correlation between anticancer activities and EGFR inhibitory activities. Highly active 18α-GAMG is thus of interest for the further studies as a potential anticancer agent.
A SAW-Based Chemical Sensor for Detecting Sulfur-Containing Organophosphorus Compounds Using a Two-Step Self-Assembly and Molecular Imprinting Technology
Authors: Pan Yong , Yang Liu , Mu Ning , Shao Shengyu , Wang Wen , Xie Xiao , He Shitang
Published: May 2014

This paper presents a new effective approach for the sensitive film deposition of surface acoustic wave (SAW) chemical sensors for detecting organophosphorus compounds such as O-ethyl-S-2-diisopropylaminoethyl methylphosphonothiolate (VX) containing sulfur at extremely low concentrations. To improve the adsorptive efficiency, a two-step technology is proposed for the sensitive film preparation on the SAW delay line utilizing gold electrodes. First, mono[6-deoxy-6-[(mercaptodecamethylene)thio]]-β-cyclodextrin is chosen as the sensitive material for VX detection, and a ~2 nm-thick monolayer is formed on the SAW delay line by the binding of Au-S. This material is then analyzed by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Second, the VX molecule is used as the template for molecular imprinting. The template is then removed by washing the delay line with ethanol and distilled water, thereby producing the sensitive and selective material for VX detection. The performance of the developed SAW sensor is evaluated, and results show high sensitivity, low detection limit, and good linearity within the VX concentration of 0.15–5.8 mg/m3. The possible interactions between the film and VX are further discussed.
An Optimal Current Observer for Predictive Current Controlled Buck DC-DC Converters
Authors: Min Run , Chen Chen , Zhang Xiaodong , Zou Xuecheng , Tong Qiaoling , Zhang Qiao
Published: May 2014

In digital current mode controlled DC-DC converters, conventional current sensors might not provide isolation at a minimized price, power loss and size. Therefore, a current observer which can be realized based on the digital circuit itself, is a possible substitute. However, the observed current may diverge due to the parasitic resistors and the forward conduction voltage of the diode. Moreover, the divergence of the observed current will cause steady state errors in the output voltage. In this paper, an optimal current observer is proposed. It achieves the highest observation accuracy by compensating for all the known parasitic parameters. By employing the optimal current observer-based predictive current controller, a buck converter is implemented. The converter has a convergently and accurately observed inductor current, and shows preferable transient response than the conventional voltage mode controlled converter. Besides, costs, power loss and size are minimized since the strategy requires no additional hardware for current sensing. The effectiveness of the proposed optimal current observer is demonstrated experimentally.
How Does Paying for Ecosystem Services Contribute to Sustainable Development? Evidence from Case Study Research in Germany and the UK
Authors: Nicolaus Kristin , Jetzkowitz Jens
Published: May 2014

Payments for ecosystem services (PES) are currently being discussed as one of the most promising tools in environmental and sustainability governance. However, much criticism has been voiced against overly optimistic assumptions of PES’ management potential towards sustainability. Several contributions to the debate show that PES fail both in reducing poverty and strengthening social justice. Additionally, they neglect problems of deliberation in decision-making, as well as the legitimacy of the applied environmental practices. Our empirical investigation on participatory and deliberative structures in already existing PES initiated by non-state actors contributes to the latter body of research. Based on the assumption that playing an active part in scheme design facilitates the consideration of justice and fairness, our case studies from Germany and the UK. present interesting results on the involvement of conflicting interests and their argumentation in the design process. Summing up these findings, we conclude that paying for ES rarely contributes to sustainable development in and of itself, but deliberatively designed schemes provide a formal setting to take aspects of justice into account.
Change of Vocations in Midlife
Authors: Chinoy K Batul
Published: May 2014

The examined life
The Case of the Deaf Third Ear
Authors: Rome Howard P
Published: May 2014

Vignette
Mystery of Life
Authors: Solan George Miley
Published: May 2014

...ignette:
Current Perspectives on Treatment of Bipolar Disorder with Lithium
Authors: Keck Paul E , McElroy Susan L
Published: May 2014

Lithium is effective in the treatment of acute mania, acute bipolar depression, and as a maintenance treatment in preventing or reducing the frequency and severity of subsequent affective episodes.
Neuropsychological Correlates of Schizophrenia
Authors: Goldsamt Lloyd A , Barros Jorge , Schwartz Bruce J , Weinstein Carol , Iqbal Naveed
Published: May 2014

Researchers are hopeful that by identifying selective deficits in schizophrenic patients, it will be possible to implicate specific regions of the brain in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia.
Suicidal Behavior in Childhood and Adolescence: Recent Studies and Clinical Implications
Authors: Clark David C
Published: May 2014

Suicide consistently ranks as the second or third leading cause of death for persons between the ages of 15 and 34.
Special and Innovative Uses of Benzodiazepines: Introduction and Raison d'être
Authors: Martin Ronald L , Preskorn Sheldon H
Published: May 2014

At present, there are no true substitutes for benzodiazepines, which, when used appropriately and judiciously, are safe and effective.
Exploring Aging-Related Stress Among Older Spousal Caregivers
Authors: Wittenberg-Lyles Elaine , Demiris George , Oliver Debra Parker , Burchett Molly
Published: May 2014

The goal of this study was to explore aging-related stress among older spousal caregivers providing hospice care for an older adult with cancer. Cases were selected from an ongoing randomized controlled trial that involved audiorecorded visits with caregivers over four different time points. Recordings consisted of caregivers discussing caregiving problems and ways they attempted to cope. Four caregiver cases comprising 16 audiorecordings were qualitatively analyzed for aging-related stress during caregiving. Caregiving stress primarily involved the patients’ cognitive deficits. The caregiving experience also made older caregivers aware of their own aging and physical limitations, heightened self-imposed expectations to fulfill their role as spouse, and led them to consider their own mortality. This study informs development of caregiver interventions aimed at addressing the reciprocal challenge of caregiving and aging. [
Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 40
(8), 13–16.]
Channeling Jane Austen: How it Helped Me Become a Better Psychotherapist
Authors: Carver Christi R.
Published: May 2014

The influences on a therapist are many. This article illustrates how a 19th-century novelist, Jane Austen, informs the work of a nurse therapist in the 21st century. The characters in a Jane Austen novel provide perspectives from setting boundaries to handling feelings. Austen’s characters promote an acceptance of less attractive qualities in others and in oneself that can benefit the therapy. [
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 52
(8), 45–48.]
Bilateral Vitreomacular Traction Resolved With a Single Intravitreal Ocriplasmin Injection
Authors: Katz Randy S.
Published: May 2014

A 74-year-old woman was referred by her ophthalmologist for evaluation of blurred vision in both eyes over the course of several months, presenting with a best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 20/150 in the right eye and 20/50 in the left eye. Optical coherence tomography showed vitreomacular traction (VMT) bilaterally with a full-thickness macular hole in the right eye; a single intravitreal injection of 125 μg ocriplasmin was administered in the right eye. One week after the injection, BCVA in the right eye improved to 20/60 with release of VMT, and at 3 weeks bilateral release of VMT was observed.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2014;45:239–242.]
Treat-and-Extend Intravitreal Bevacizumab for Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion
Authors: Rush Ryan B. , Simunovic Matthew P. , Aragon Antonio V. , Ysasaga J. Edward
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To determine the effectiveness and direct medical costs of treat-and-extend (TAE) intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) for the treatment of branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO)–associated macular edema (ME).

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Retrospective chart review of 52 consecutive patients diagnosed with BRVO-associated ME treated with IVB using a TAE protocol.

RESULTS:

Mean change in logMAR vision was −0.30 (
P
< .001), and mean change in central macular thickness was −244.0 μm (
P
< .001). The mean number of injections was 8.2 (95% CI; 7.8 to 8.6). The yearly average direct cost of the TAE regimen was calculated to be $2,580.26 per patient.

CONCLUSION:

Treatment of BRVO-associated ME with IVB using a TAE regimen resulted in similar visual outcomes and number of intravitreal injections as did as-needed treatment with 0.5 mg ranibizumab conducted in phase 3 trials but with fewer visits and lower annual medical costs.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2014;45:212–216.]
Idiopathic Giant Retinal Cyst
Authors: Chen Carlos Y. , Semenova Ekaterina , Cohen Ben Z. , Finger Paul T.
Published: May 2014

The authors describe a case report of idiopathic asymptomatic giant retinal cyst with underlying hyperpigmentation. Low- and high-frequency ultrasound (ultrasound biomicroscopy) revealed an anechoic giant cyst with two hyper-reflective traction bands between the ciliary body and the anterior base of the retinal cyst. There was no retinal detachment.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2014;45:251–252.]
Poética y comunicación. Aportaciones a la teoría de la comunicación y a la teoría de los objetos desde las Odas de Neruda
Authors: Uña Octavio
Published: May 2014

Quiere situarse el presente estudio en una línea de investigación sobre lenguajes elaborados y teoría de la comunicación, en la que se incluyen estudios sobre la obra poética de Octavio Paz y sobre el pensamiento de Gadamer en torno al lenguaje y a la obra de arte. Establecemos aquí un primer acceso a las Odas elementales de Neruda desde la perspectiva fenomenológica de los objetos, la consideración del lenguaje poético y sus aportaciones a la comunicación (“la poesía es la comunicación, establecida con nuevas palabras, de un conocimiento de muy especial índole”, sostiene Bousoño). Objetos que miran y convergen hacia el hombre, objetos de la vida cotidiana, de los entornos cercanos y cálidos: una construcción del reino de la objetividad, “surtidor de metáforas”. Todo un inventario poético del mundo de lo “a la mano”, de la proxémica; un relato y crónica de la experiencia del poeta, dialógica, y del acervo de la experiencia común. Objetos polisémicos, que expresan, informan y dicen “sistemas estructurados de signos”.
Benjamin : image, trace et politique
Authors: Vera Adolfo
Published: May 2014

Si l’on part du constat que « l’effacement des traces » est l’un des effets les plus cruellement marquants des pratiques totalitaires, une philosophie politique attentive aux conséquences de la violence extrême devra nécessairement se pencher sur la question de la trace. Nous étudierons ici cette question par rapport à la théorie benjaminienne de la photographie, pour essayer de comprendre ce qui est énoncé à la fin de la Petite histoire de la photographie, au moment où Benjamin, en parlant des photos d’Atget, annonce la portée politique de la photographie à l’époque moderne : reconfigurer la scène d’un crime qui a été commis, et dont les traces ont été brouillées.
La moralité, le droit et la place de la critique : « La signification du temps dans le monde moral » de Walter Benjamin
Authors: Benjamin Andrew
Published: May 2014

La critique, en tant que concept philosophique, doit être refondue lorsqu’elle est reliée à la possibilité d’une ouverture productive. Dans un tel contexte, la critique a une grande affinité avec la destruction et avec des formes d’inauguration. En travaillant au fil des écrits de Marx et de Walter Benjamin, et plus spécifiquement autour de « La signification du temps dans le monde moral »1 de Benjamin, la destruction et l’inauguration sont repositionnées en termes d’altérité et de césure de la permission.
Mort pour être photographié
Authors: Skopin Denis
Published: May 2014

Cet article analyse, dans la perspective politique et esthétique, le phénomène de la destruction des visages des « ennemis du peuple » sur les photographies de groupe dans la Russie stalinienne. Il a pour base empirique les photographies découvertes par l’auteur au cours des recherches aux archives de plusieurs villes russes, ces photographies portant différentes traces, telles que les biffages ou les notes manuscrites laissées par les policiers staliniens. L’analyse de ces traces ouvre plusieurs pistes de réflexion, en rendant possible une interrogation conjointe sur la nature de la terreur et la signification politique de la photographie.
Soil ameliorants to improve soil chemical and microbial biomass properties in some South African soils
Authors: Baloyi TC , Du Preez CC , Kutu FR
Published: May 2014

Rainfed field trials on effects of seed, foliar and soil amendments herein referred as industrially manufactured biological amendments (IMBAs) on selected soil chemical and microbial biomass properties were conducted from 2006/07through 2008/09 at four sites in South Africa under light and heavy-textured soils. The IMBAs were classified as growth boosters and partial or total replacements of conventional NPK fertiliser. The IMBAs were applied according to product recommendations in a randomised complete block design with four replications. An optimum conventional NPK rate at each site and untreated control were also included as check. Application of IMBAs with optimum recommended NPK fertiliser rate promoted acidity in soils compared to the IMBAs used as either partial or total replacements of conventional NPK fertiliser. The use of the different IMBA types significantly increased contents of organic C, available N and P only in light-textured soils than in the NPK check. The different IMBAs promoted higher microbial biomass-C immobilisation at 4-weeks after planting, while biomass-C mineralisation was predominant at flowering and crop harvest regardless of soil type. Farmers could apply any category of IMBAs to complement revitalisation of degraded South African soils and also minimise nutrient leaching due to synergetic effects. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/jas.v9i2.6908 The Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2014, vol.9, no2: p.58-68
Il-1β and Reactive Oxygen Species Differentially Regulate Neutrophil Directional Migration and Basal Random Motility in a Zebrafish Injury–Induced Inflammation Model
Authors: Yan Bo , Han Peidong , Pan Lifeng , Lu Wei , Xiong Jingwei , Zhang Mingjie , Zhang Wenqing , Li Li , Wen Zilong
Published: May 2014

During inflammation, the proper inflammatory infiltration of neutrophils is crucial for the host to fight against infections and remove damaged cells and detrimental substances. IL-1β and NADPH oxidase–mediated reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been implicated to play important roles in this process. However, the cellular and molecular basis underlying the actions of IL-1β and ROS and their relationship during inflammatory response remains undefined. In this study, we use the zebrafish model to investigate these issues. We find that, similar to that of NADPH oxidase–mediated ROS signaling, the Il-1β–Myd88 pathway is required for the recruitment of neutrophils, but not macrophages, to the injury-induced inflammatory site, whereas it is dispensable for bacterial-induced inflammation. Interestingly, the Il-1β–Myd88 pathway is independent of NADPH oxidase–mediated ROS signaling and critical for the directional migration, but not the basal random movement, of neutrophils. In contrast, the NADPH oxidase–mediated ROS signaling is required for both basal random movement and directional migration of neutrophils. We further document that ectopic expression of Il-1β in zebrafish induces an inflammatory disorder, which can be suppressed by anti-inflammatory treatment. Our findings reveal that the Il-1β–Myd88 axis and NADPH oxidase–mediated ROS signaling are two independent pathways that differentially regulate neutrophil migration during sterile inflammation. In addition, Il-1β overexpressing Tg(hsp70:mil-1β_eGFP;lyz:DsRed2)hkz10t;nz50 transgenic zebrafish provides a useful animal model for the study of chronic inflammatory disorder and for anti-inflammatory drug discovery.
Plasma Cells in the Mucosa of Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease Produce Granzyme B and Possess Cytotoxic Activities
Authors: Cupi Maria Laura , Sarra Massimiliano , Marafini Irene , Monteleone Ivan , Franzè Eleonora , Ortenzi Angela , Colantoni Alfredo , Sica Giuseppe , Sileri Pierpaolo , Rosado M. Manuela , Carsetti Rita , MacDonald Thomas T. , Pallone Francesco , Monteleone Giovanni
Published: May 2014

In both Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), the gut is massively infiltrated with B cells and plasma cells, but the role of these cell types in the pathogenesis of gut tissue damage remains largely unknown. Human B cells express granzyme B (GrB) when cultured with IL-21, a cytokine overproduced in CD and UC mucosa. We therefore examined whether mucosal B cells express GrB and have cytotoxic activity in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). GrB-expressing CD19+ and IgA+ cells were seen in the normal intestinal mucosa, but they were significantly more frequent in both CD and UC. In contrast, only a minority of CD19+ and IgA+ cells expressed perforin with no difference between IBD and controls. GrB-producing CD19+ cells expressed CD27 and were CD38high and CD20 negative. CD19+ B cells from IBD patients induced HCT-116 cell death. IL-21 enhanced GrB expression in control CD19+ B cells and increased their cytotoxic activity. These data indicate that IBD-related inflammation is marked by mucosal accumulation of cytotoxic, GrB-expressing CD19+ and IgA+ cells, suggesting a role for these cells in IBD-associated epithelial damage.
Graded Levels of IRF4 Regulate CD8+ T Cell Differentiation and Expansion, but Not Attrition, in Response to Acute Virus Infection
Authors: Nayar Ribhu , Schutten Elizabeth , Bautista Bianca , Daniels Keith , Prince Amanda L. , Enos Megan , Brehm Michael A. , Swain Susan L. , Welsh Raymond M. , Berg Leslie J.
Published: May 2014

In response to acute virus infections, CD8+ T cells differentiate to form a large population of short-lived effectors and a stable pool of long-lived memory cells. The characteristics of the CD8+ T cell response are influenced by TCR affinity, Ag dose, and the inflammatory cytokine milieu dictated by the infection. To address the mechanism by which differences in TCR signal strength could regulate CD8+ T cell differentiation, we investigated the transcription factor, IFN regulatory factor 4 (IRF4). We show that IRF4 is transiently upregulated to differing levels in murine CD8+ T cells, based on the strength of TCR signaling. In turn, IRF4 controls the magnitude of the CD8+ T cell response to acute virus infection in a dose-dependent manner. Modest differences in IRF4 expression dramatically influence the numbers of short-lived effector cells at the peak of the infection, but have no impact on the kinetics of the infection or on the rate of T cell contraction. Furthermore, the expression of key transcription factors such as T cell factor 1 and Eomesodermin are highly sensitive to graded levels of IRF4. In contrast, T-bet expression is less dependent on IRF4 levels and is influenced by the nature of the infection. These data indicate that IRF4 is a key component that translates the strength of TCR signaling into a graded response of virus-specific CD8+ T cells.
Linkage between Dendritic and T Cell Commitments in Human Circulating Hematopoietic Progenitors
Authors: Kyoizumi Seishi , Kubo Yoshiko , Kajimura Junko , Yoshida Kengo , Hayashi Tomonori , Nakachi Kei , Young Lauren F. , Moore Malcolm A. , van den Brink Marcel R. M. , Kusunoki Yoichiro
Published: May 2014

The relationships between commitments of dendritic cells (DCs) and T cells in human hematopoietic stem cells are not well understood. In this study, we enumerate and characterize conventional DC and plasmacytoid DC precursors in association with T cell and thymus-derived types of NK cell precursors among CD34+ hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) circulating in human peripheral blood. By limiting-dilution analyses using coculture with stroma cells expressing Notch1 ligand, the precursor frequencies (PFs) of DCs in HPCs were found to significantly correlate with T cell PFs, but not with NK cell PFs, among healthy donors. Clonal analyses showed that the majority of T/NK dual- and T single-lineage precursors—but only a minority of NK single-lineage precursors—were associated with the generation of DC progenies. All clones producing both DC and T cell progenies were found with monocyte and/or granulocyte progenies, suggesting DC differentiation via myeloid DC pathways. Analyses of peripheral blood HPC subpopulations revealed that the lineage split between DC and T/NK cell progenitor occurs at the stage prior to bifurcation into T and NK cell lineages. The findings suggest a strong linkage between DC and T cell commitments, which may be imprinted in circulating lymphoid-primed multipotent progenitors or in more upstream HPCs.
Identification of a Haemophilus influenzae Factor H–Binding Lipoprotein Involved in Serum Resistance
Authors: Fleury Christophe , Su Yu-Ching , Hallström Teresia , Sandblad Linda , Zipfel Peter F. , Riesbeck Kristian
Published: May 2014

Haemophilus influenzae is a Gram-negative human pathogen that resides in the upper respiratory tract. Encapsulated H. influenzae type b (Hib) and type f (Hif) are the most common serotypes associated with invasive disease. H. influenzae displays various strategies to circumvent the host innate immune response, including the bactericidal effect of the complement system. In this study, we identified an H. influenzae lipoprotein having the ability to bind factor H (FH), the major regulator of the alternative pathway of complement activation. This protein, named protein H (PH), was surface exposed and was found in all clinical Hib and Hif isolates tested. Deletion of the gene encoding for PH (lph) in Hib and Hif significantly reduced the interaction between bacteria and FH. When Hib and Hif PH variants were separately expressed in nontypeable (unencapsulated) H. influenzae, which did not bind FH, an increased FH affinity was observed. We recombinantly expressed the two PH variants in Escherichia coli, and despite sharing only 56% identical amino acids, both FH-binding Haemophilus proteins similarly interacted with the complement regulator FH short consensus repeats 7 and 18–20. Importantly, Hib and Hif resistance against the bactericidal effect of human serum was significantly reduced when bacterial mutants devoid of PH were tested. In conclusion, we have characterized a hitherto unknown bacterial protein that is crucial for mediating an interaction between the human pathogen H. influenzae and FH. This novel interaction is important for H. influenzae resistance against complement activation and will consequently promote bacterial pathogenesis.
ARF6 Inhibition Stabilizes the Vasculature and Enhances Survival during Endotoxic Shock
Authors: Davis Chadwick T. , Zhu Weiquan , Gibson Christopher C. , Bowman-Kirigin Jay A. , Sorensen Lise , Ling Jing , Sun Huiming , Navankasattusas Sutip , Li Dean Y.
Published: May 2014

The vascular endothelium responds to infection by destabilizing endothelial cell–cell junctions to allow fluid and cells to pass into peripheral tissues, facilitating clearance of infection and tissue repair. During sepsis, endotoxin and other proinflammatory molecules induce excessive vascular leak, which can cause organ dysfunction, shock, and death. Current therapies for sepsis are limited to antibiotics and supportive care, which are often insufficient to reduce morbidity and prevent mortality. Previous attempts at blocking inflammatory cytokine responses in humans proved ineffective at reducing the pathologies associated with sepsis, highlighting the need for a new therapeutic strategy. The small GTPase ARF6 is activated by a MyD88–ARNO interaction to induce vascular leak through disruption of endothelial adherens junctions. In this study, we show that the MyD88–ARNO–ARF6–signaling axis is responsible for LPS-induced endothelial permeability and is a destabilizing convergence point used by multiple inflammatory cues. We also show that blocking ARF6 with a peptide construct of its N terminus is sufficient to reduce vascular leak and enhance survival during endotoxic shock, without inhibiting the host cytokine response. Our data highlight the therapeutic potential of blocking ARF6 and reducing vascular leak for the treatment of inflammatory conditions, such as endotoxemia.
Gait Kinematics After Taping in Participants With Chronic Ankle Instability
Authors: Chinn Lisa , Dicharry Jay , Hart Joseph M. , Saliba Susan , Wilder Robert , Hertel Jay
Published: May 2014

Context:

Chronic ankle instability is characterized by repetitive lateral ankle sprains. Prophylactic ankle taping is a common intervention used to reduce the risk of ankle sprains. However, little research has been conducted to evaluate the effect ankle taping has on gait kinematics.

Objective:

To investigate the effect of taping on ankle and knee kinematics during walking and jogging in participants with chronic ankle instability.

Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Setting:

Motion analysis laboratory.

Patients or Participants:

A total of 15 individuals (8 men, 7 women; age = 26.9 ± 6.8 years, height = 171.7 ± 6.3 cm, mass = 73.5 ± 10.7 kg) with self-reported chronic ankle instability volunteered. They had an average of 5.3 ± 3.1 incidences of ankle sprain.

Intervention(s):

Participants walked and jogged in shoes on a treadmill while untaped and taped. The tape technique was a traditional preventive taping procedure. Conditions were randomized.

Main Outcome Measure(s):

Frontal-plane and sagittal-plane ankle and sagittal-plane knee kinematics were recorded throughout the entire gait cycle. Group means and 90% confidence intervals were calculated, plotted, and inspected for percentages of the gait cycle in which the confidence intervals did not overlap.

Results:

During walking, participants were less plantar flexed from 64% to 69% of the gait cycle (mean difference = 5.73° ± 0.54°) and less inverted from 51% to 61% (mean difference = 4.34° ± 0.65°) and 76% to 81% (mean difference = 5.55° ± 0.54°) of the gait cycle when taped. During jogging, participants were less dorsiflexed from 12% to 21% (mean difference = 4.91° ± 0.18°) and less inverted from 47% to 58% (mean difference = 6.52° ± 0.12°) of the gait cycle when taped. No sagittal-plane knee kinematic differences were found.

Conclusions:

In those with chronic ankle instability, taping resulted in a more neutral ankle position during walking and jogging in shoes on a treadmill. This change in foot positioning and the mechanical properties of the tape may explain the protective aspect of taping in preventing lateral ankle sprains.
Motion Alterations After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Comparison of the Injured and Uninjured Lower Limbs During a Single-Legged Jump
Authors: de Fontenay Benoît Pairot , Argaud Sebastien , Blache Yoann , Monteil Karine
Published: May 2014

Context:

Asymmetries subsist after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACL-R), and it is unclear how lower limb motion is altered in the context of a dynamic movement.

Objective:

To highlight the alterations observed in the injured limb (IL) during the performance of a dynamic movement after ACL-R.

Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Setting:

Research laboratory.

Patients or Other Participants:

A total of 11 men (age = 23.3 ± 3.8 years, mass = 81.2 ± 17.0 kg) who underwent ACL-R took part in this study 7.3 ± 1.1 months (range = 6–9 months) after surgery.

Intervention(s):

Kinematic and kinetic analyses of a single-legged squat jump were performed. The uninjured leg (UL) was used as the control variable.

Main Outcome Measure(s):

Kinematic and kinetic variables.

Results:

Jump height was 24% less for the IL than the UL (F1,9 = 23.3, P = .001), whereas the push-off phase duration was similar for both lower limbs (P = .96). Knee-joint extension (F1,9 = 11.4, P = .009), and ankle plantar flexion (F1,9 = 22.6, P = .001) were less at takeoff for the IL than the UL. The hip angle at takeoff was not different between lower limbs (P = .09). We found that total moment was 14% less (F1,9 = 11.1, P = .01) and total power was 35% less (F1,9 = 24.2, P = .001) for the IL than the UL. Maximal hip (P = .09) and knee (P = .21) power was not different between legs. The IL had 34% less maximal ankle power (F1,9 = 11.3, P = .009) and 31% less angular velocity of ankle plantar flexion (F1,9 = 17.8, P = .004) than the UL.

Conclusions:

At 7.3 months after ACL-R, motion alterations were present in the IL, leading to a decrease in dynamic movement performance. Enhancing the tools for assessing articular and muscular variables during a multijoint movement would help to individualize rehabilitation protocols after ACL-R.
Effectiveness of Simulation Integrated with Problem Based Learning on Clinical Competency and Self-efficacy in Nursing Students.
Authors: Lee Mijin , Ahn Young Mee , Cho Insook , Sohn Min
Published: May 2014

PURPOSE: This study was conducted to examine the effects of simulation education integrated with problem based learning (SIM-PBL) on clinical competency and self-efficacy in post operation nursing care for children.METHODS: This study was a quasi-experimental design. Thirty six students in the third year of a 4-year baccalaureate nursing program were recruited conveniently and assigned to the control or intervention groups using time difference.Students were all in a pediatric nursing clinical practicum.The control group received the regular clinical practicum in a hospital setting. For the intervention group, a SIM-PBL education replaced 150 minutes of their clinical practicum.RESULTS: The intervention group showed greater improvement in two areas of clinical competency compared with the control group; physical assessment (t=3.019, p=.005) and post operation advice (t=2.428, p=.021). However, no statistically significant differences in improvement in any areas of self-efficacy were found between two groups.CONCLUSION: The results indicate that the SIM-PBL education is effective in improving some areas of clinical competence, but not self-efficacy in post operation nursing care for children. Further study is needed to develop SIM-PBL programs for various clinical topics and evaluate the effectiveness on the learning outcomes.
Integrative Review of Nursing Intervention Studies on Mother-Infant Interactions.
Authors: Park Sun Jung , Kim Shin Jeong , Kang Kyung Ah
Published: May 2014

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to describe the components and content of nursing intervention studies on mother-infant interactions and to present strategies for future studies.METHODS: Four electronic databases in the Korean language were searched to identify studies done between January 1998 and December 2011. The search yielded 145 articles. From these articles, 19 studies met the inclusion criteria.RESULTS: Mother-infant interactions in these studies were found to include verbal and non-verbal communication basic for optimal growth and development of the child. Six kinds of interventions for mother-infant interactions were identified as follows: sensory stimulation, education program, whole body massage, kangaroo care, visiting support, and music therapy.CONCLUSION: Further studies with well designed clinical trials need to be done in the area of child nursing to provide evidence based data for the development of strategies to promote positive mother-infant interactions.
Changes in the structure of earnings of informal street traders
Authors: Callaghan Chris W.
Published: May 2014

Purpose/objective: The purpose of this research is to investigate the influence of the 2008 xenophobic events on the structure of earnings of street traders in inner-city Johannesburg and to provide recommendations to policymakers.Problem investigated: The xenophobic events of 2008 are well documented, but absent from the literature is the potential influence on the earnings of foreign street traders. This study investigates this influence through analysis of data from before and after the events.Design and methodology: The study applies an exploratory cross-sectional research design using data from three different samples. Mann-Whitney and Chi-squared measures are applied together with exploratory multiple linear regression analysis to generate insight into the relationships between earnings and differences by origin.Findings and implications: In 2009 the earnings structure of the sector changed. In 2008 and 2010, the earnings of foreign traders are higher, whereas in 2009 these traders earned less than local traders. It is argued that the xenophobic events might have resulted in a temporary restructuring of earnings.Originality or value of the research: This study makes a contribution through exploratory findings that document a change in the structure of earnings of foreign street traders.Conclusion: A change in the structure of earnings of foreign street traders occurred after the xenophobic events of 2008. Although association cannot ascribe causality, it is argued that this change may be related to these events.
Frequency, depth and rate of phosphorus fertilizer application effects on alfalfa seed yields
Authors: Zhang Tiejun , Kang Junmei , Zhao Zhongxiang , Guo Wenshan , Yang Qingchuan
Published: May 2014

Zhang, T., Kang, J., Zhao, Z., Guo, W. and Yang, Q. 2014. Frequency, depth and rate of phosphorus fertilizer application effects on alfalfa seed yields. Can. J. Plant Sci. 94: 1149–1156. Efficient phosphorus (P) management is important for alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) seed production and is necessary in order to alleviate the negative environmental effects of excess P application. The study was conducted on both very low-P and optimum-P soils to evaluate the effects of two frequencies (annual and triennial applications), two depths (7–8 and 15–16 cm), and three rates (15, 30, and 45 kg P ha−1) of P fertilization on seed yield, total P uptake (TPU), P-use efficiency of applied P (PUE), and recovery of P fertilizer (PR). There was a zero-P control. Under the model of annual application, the highest seed yields were obtained with the rates of 30 or 45 kg P ha−1. Under the model of triennial application, however, the seed yield decreased linearly with increasing rates in the first year. Averaged across frequency and depth, PUE and PR decreased linearly but TPU increased linearly with increasing P application rate. Triennial application of 45 kg of P led to higher mean seed yield than annual application of 15 kg of P, and its PUE and PR values were higher than triennial application of 90 and 135 kg of P. However, on low-P or optimum-P soil, annual application of 30 or 45 kg of P resulted in the highest mean seed yields compared with low PUE and PR. Thus, triennial application of a low P rate leads to a high alfalfa seed yield and has potential economic and environmental benefits.
El rótulo comercial. Protagonista de nuestra realidad
Authors: Cogollos van der Linden Jonay
Published: May 2014

Street signs are the media for advertising in our closest urban environment. They are intended to indicate information that is not outwardly observable in complex built-up landscapes. Commercial graphics puts its stamp on the urban environment. This study therefore enables us to better understand reality, culture and, ultimately, the world around us.
Airborne observations of IEPOX-derived isoprene SOA in the Amazon during SAMBBA
Authors: Allan J. D. , Morgan W. T. , Darbyshire E. , Flynn M. J. , Williams P. I. , Oram D. E. , Artaxo P. , Brito J. , Lee J. D. , Coe H.
Published: May 2014

Abstract. Isoprene is a potentially highly significant but currently poorly quantified source of secondary organic aerosols (SOA). This is especially important in the tropics, where large rainforests act as significant sources of isoprene. Methylfuran, produced through thermal decomposition during analysis, has recently been suggested as a marker for isoprene SOA formation through the isoprene epoxydiol (IEPOX) route, which occurs under low NOx conditions. This is manifested as a peak at m / z = 82 in Aerodyne Aerosol Mass Spectrometer (AMS) data. Here we present a study of this marker measured during 5 flights over the Amazon rainforest on board the UK Facility for Airborne Atmospheric Measurement (FAAM) BAe-146 research aircraft during the South American Biomass Burning Analysis (SAMBBA) campaign. Cases where this marker is and is not present are contrasted and linked to the presence of acidic seed particles, lower NOx concentrations and higher humidities. There is also data to suggest a role of organic nitrogen in the particulate composition. Furthermore, an inspection of the vertical trends of the marker indicates that concentrations are highest at the top of the boundary layer (possibly due to semivolatile repartitioning) and upwards through the free troposphere, the mass spectral profile evolves towards that of low volatility oxygenated aerosol. These observations offer insights into the behaviour of IEPOX-derived SOA formation above the Amazon rainforest and the suitability of methylfuran as a marker for this process.
From land use to land cover: restoring the afforestation signal in a coupled integrated assessment – earth system model and the implications for CMIP5 RCP simulations
Authors: Di Vittorio A. V. , Chini L. P. , Bond-Lamberty B. , Mao J. , Shi X. , Truesdale J. , Craig A. , Calvin K. , Jones A. , Collins W. D. , Edmonds J. , Hurtt G. C. , Thornton P. , Thomson A.
Published: May 2014

Abstract. Climate projections depend on scenarios of fossil fuel emissions and land use change, and the IPCC AR5 parallel process assumes consistent climate scenarios across Integrated Assessment and Earth System Models (IAMs and ESMs). The CMIP5 project used a novel "land use harmonization" based on the Global Land use Model (GLM) to provide ESMs with consistent 1500–2100 land use trajectories generated by historical data and four IAM projections. A direct coupling of the Global Change Assessment Model (GCAM), GLM, and the Community ESM (CESM) has allowed us to characterize and partially address a major gap in the CMIP5 land coupling design: the lack of a corresponding land cover harmonization. The CMIP5 CESM global afforestation is only 22% of GCAM's 2005 to 2100 RCP4.5 afforestation. Likewise, only 17% of GCAM's 2040 RCP4.5 afforestation, and zero pasture loss, were transmitted to CESM within the directly coupled model. This is a problem because afforestation was relied upon to achieve RCP4.5 climate stabilization. GLM modifications within the directly coupled model did not increase CESM afforestation. Modifying the land use translator in addition to GLM, however, enabled CESM to simulate 66% of GCAM's afforestation in 2040, and 94% of GCAM's pasture loss as grassland and shrubland losses. This additional afforestation increases vegetation carbon gain by 19 PgC and decreases atmospheric CO2 gain by 8 ppmv from 2005 to 2040, implying different RCP4.5 climate scenarios between CMIP5 GCAM and CESM. Although the IAMs and ESMs were not expected to have exactly the same climate forcing, due in part to different terrestrial carbon cycles and atmospheric radiation algorithms, the ESMs were expected to project climates representative of the RCP scenarios. Similar land cover inconsistencies exist in other CMIP5 model results, primarily because land cover information is not shared between models. High RCP4.5 afforestation might also contribute to inconsistencies as some ESMs might impose bioclimatic limits to potential forest area and have different rates of forest growth than projected by RCP4.5. Further work to harmonize land cover among models will be required to address this problem.
Geophysical methods to support correct water sampling locations for salt dilution gauging
Authors: Comina C. , Lasagna M. , De Luca D. A. , Sambuelli L.
Published: May 2014

Abstract. To improve water management design, particularly in irrigation areas, it is important to evaluate the baseline state of the water resources, including canal discharge. Discharge measurements, using salt dilution gauging, are a traditional and well-documented technique. The complete mixing of salt used for dilution gauging is required for reliable measurements; this condition is difficult to test or verify and, if not fulfilled, is the largest source of uncertainty in the discharge calculation. In this paper, a geophysical technique (FERT, Fast Electrical Resistivity Tomography) is proposed for imaging the distribution of the salt plume used for dilution gauging at every point along a sampling cross-section. In this way, it is possible to check whether complete mixing has occurred. If the mixing is not complete, the image created by FERT can also provide guidance for selecting water-sampling locations in the sampling cross-section. A water multi-sampling system prototype for the simultaneous sampling of canal water at different points within the cross-section, aimed to potentially take into account concentration variability, is also proposed and tested. Preliminary results of a single test with salt dilution gauging and FERT in a real case are reported. The results show that imaging the passage of the salt plume is possible by means of geophysical controls and that this can potentially help in the selection of water sampling points.