bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An experimental investigation of corrosion resistance of mild steel by sol-gel process using TiO2 nanostructure coating and prediction of optimal parameters
Authors: Shanaghi Ali , Sabour Rouhaghdam AR , Tabatabaei Seyyed Ahmad , Shariatpanahi Masoud , Rastgoo Abbas , Yousefi Akbar Karkhaneh , Samadzadeh Mostafa
Published: April 2013

A TiO2 nanostructure coating has shown to significantly improve the thermal and electrical properties of steel plates and increase their resistance to oxidation, corrosion, and wear, especially in high temperature applications. In this research, the corrosion resistance properties of a mild steel substrate by applying TiO2 nanostructure coating using the sol-gel method were investigated. The quality of the coating, however, is notably affected by such process parameters as the dip-coating rate, drying time, heat-treatment rate, and the number of coating layers. Moreover, this article presents an integrated approach to the optimal parameter setting for the above process. Using experimental data from a coating process by the sol-gel method, an artificial neural network is trained to map the vector of process parameters onto a measure of corrosion resistance. An evolutionary search algorithm is then employed to find the optimum set(s) of process parameters. The efficiency of the proposed approach is demonstrated using a case study involving a 316L stainless steel substrate.
Towards a pragma-linguistic framework for the study of sensationalism in news headlines
Authors: Molek-Kozakowska Katarzyna
Published: April 2013

This article sets out a framework for a language-oriented analysis of sensationalism in news media. Sensationalism is understood here as a discourse strategy of ‘packaging’ information in news headlines in such a way that news items are presented as more interesting, extraordinary and relevant than might be the case. Unlike previous content analyses of sensational coverage, this study demonstrates how sensationalism is instantiated through specific illocutions, semantic macrostructures, narrative formulas, evaluation parameters, and interpersonal and textual devices. Examples are drawn from a corpus of headlines of the ‘most read’ articles in the online outlet of the British mid-market tabloid Daily Mail compiled in early 2012. Sensationalized instances are identified through surveys and focus group discussions and subsequently analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. The study is located within the context of media scholarship on news values and current trends in journalism.
Gender and sexuality in animated television sitcom interaction
Authors: Raymond Chase Wesley
Published: April 2013

The active ‘doing’ of gender and sexuality in and through social interaction has been a topic of academic inquiry for several decades. This study examines the cultural reproduction of that ‘doing’ through the onscreen discourse of the animated television sitcom. A conversation-analytic approach to various excerpts from two popular series reveals the ways in which the situated interactions of these programs make gender and sexuality overtly relevant to viewers through polarization of ‘the norm’ versus deviations from it at the level of talk. In temporarily deviating from their everyday, normative speech practices, characters tap into viewers’ preconceived notions of the behaviors of different gendered and sexual identities in interaction. These non-normative actions are then oriented to as such in the onscreen discourse, thereby making gender, sexuality, and the conduct associated with those identities simultaneously salient for the at-home viewer. It is hypothesized that, while these gender-/sexuality-based associations can be used as a tool through which to offer critiques of the social stereotypes that they parody, they can also serve to re-create those hegemonic divisions at a discursive level through homogenization of the complex range of human identities being represented.
Cochrane corner: bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) for fracture healing in adults
Authors: Glass G. E. , Jain A.
Published: April 2013

Background:

Delay in fracture healing is a complex clinical and economic issue for patients and health services.

Objectives:

To assess the incremental effectiveness and costs of bone morphogenetic protein on fracture healing in fractures and nonunions compared with standards of care.

Search strategy:

We searched The Cochrane Library (2008, Issue 4), MEDLINE, and other major health and health economics databases (to October 2008).

Selection criteria:

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and full or partial economic evaluations of bone morphogenetic protein for fracture healing in skeletally mature adults.

Data collection and analysis:

All clinical and economic data were extracted by one author and checked by another.
Making It Clear
Authors: Tucker-McLaughlin Mary , Hubbard Glenn
Published: April 2013

In journalism, writing concisely is fundamental. Multimedia journalism demands even more writing precision. . . . In this quasi-experimental study ( n = 113), we tested the effects of the paramedic method (PM) of writing instruction on multimedia writing students completing a broadcast-style news writing assignment. We hypothesized a reduction in word count and an increase in writing quality. Word counts decreased significantly. While the quality of writing did not significantly improve with the PM samples, the overall decrease in words did not lower the quality of writing. The results indicate an overall improvement in writing efficiency with little or no effect on the quality of the writing. This study unveils a unique approach to clarifying writing that can be implemented in the multimedia classroom and by professional journalists. The study shows significant results for lowering word count and an important aspect of multimedia writing.
Toward a Better Etomidate
Authors: Cotten Joseph F. , Raines Douglas E.
Published: April 2013

More than 45 years after its development, etomidate still sees widespread use as a hypnotic agent for single-dose sedation of critically ill and hemodynamically unstable patients. Potent and prolonged inhibition of cortisol synthesis by etomidate, even following single-dose administration, is controversial and a legitimate concern for clinicians. This article will briefly review etomidate pharmacology. It will also discuss some recent basic science and translational studies that have yielded several novel and clinically promising etomidate analogues designed to circumvent etomidate adrenal suppression.
The Corruption of Value
Authors: Stellar Jennifer E. , Willer Robb
Published: April 2013

We investigate the possibility that negative moral associations can reduce the desirability and perceived value of money, and that they do so by threatening to contaminate individuals’ perceptions of their morality. In Study 1, participants filled out fewer raffle tickets to obtain a money prize with immoral associations and perceived it to have less purchasing power than a morally neutral prize. In Study 2, we experimentally manipulated participants’ moral self-image, reasoning that ameliorating moral self-image concerns would make participants less averse to accepting morally tainted money. Consistent with this, participants who recounted a past virtuous act completed more tasks to receive monetary payment with immoral associations than participants who recounted a neutral act. These findings provide experimental evidence that immoral associations reduce the desirability of morally tainted money by threatening to contaminate the recipient’s moral self-image.
Genomic meta-analysis of growth factor and integrin pathways in chronic kidney transplant injury
Authors: Dosanjh Amrita , Robison Elizabeth , Mondala Tony , Head Steven R , Salomon Daniel R , Kurian Sunil M
Published: April 2013

Background

Chronic Allograft Nephropathy (CAN) is a clinical entity of progressive kidney transplant injury. The defining histology is tubular atrophy with interstitial fibrosis (IFTA). Using a meta-analysis of microarrays from 84 kidney transplant biopsies, we revealed growth factor and integrin adhesion molecule pathways differentially expressed and correlated with histological progression. A bioinformatics approach mining independent datasets leverages new and existing data to identify correlative changes in integrin and growth factor signaling pathways.

Results

Analysis of CAN/IFTA Banff grades showed that hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), and epidermal growth factor (EGF) pathways are significantly differentially expressed in all classes of CAN/IFTA. MAPK-dependent pathways were also significant. However, the TGFβ pathways, albeit present, failed to differentiate CAN/IFTA progression. The integrin subunits β8, αv, αμ and β5 are differentially expressed, but β1, β6 and α6 specifically correlate with progression of chronic injury. Results were validated using our published proteomic profiling of CAN/IFTA.

Conclusions

CAN/IFTA with chronic kidney injury is characterized by expression of distinct growth factors and specific integrin adhesion molecules as well as their canonical signaling pathways. Drug target mapping suggests several novel candidates for the next generation of therapeutics to prevent or treat progressive transplant dysfunction with interstitial fibrosis.
Influence of internalin a murinisation on host resistance to orally acquired listeriosis in mice
Authors: Bergmann Silke , Beard Philippa M , Pasche Bastian , Lienenklaus Stefan , Weiss Siegfried , Gahan Cormac G M , Schughart Klaus , Lengeling Andreas
Published: April 2013

Background

The bacterial surface protein internalin (InlA) is a major virulence factor of the food-born pathogenListeria monocytogenes. It plays a critical role in the bacteria crossing the host intestinal barrier by a species-specific interaction with the cell adhesion molecule E-cadherin. In mice, the interaction of InlA with murine E-cadherin is impaired due to sequence-specific binding incompatibilities. We have previously used the approach of ‘murinisation’ to establish an oral listeriosis infection model in mice by exchanging two amino acid residues in InlA. This dramatically increases binding to mouse E-cadherin. In the present study, we have used bioluminescent murinised and non-murinisedListeriastrains to examine the spatiotemporal dissemination ofListeriain four diverse mouse genetic backgrounds after oral inoculation.

Results

The murinisedListeria monocytogenesstrain showed enhanced invasiveness and induced more severe infections in all four investigated mouse inbred strains compared to the non-murinisedListeriastrain. We identified C57BL/6J mice as being most resistant to orally acquired listeriosis whereas C3HeB/FeJ, A/J and BALB/cJ mice were found to be most susceptible to infection. This was reflected in faster kinetics ofListeriadissemination, higher bacterial loads in internal organs, and elevated serum levels of IL-6, IFN-γ, TNF-α and CCL2 in the susceptible strains as compared to the resistant C57BL/6J strain. Importantly, murinisation of InlA did not cause enhanced invasion ofListeria monocytogenesinto the brain.

Conclusion

MurinisedListeriaare able to efficiently cross the intestinal barrier in mice from diverse genetic backgrounds. However, expression of murinized InlA does not enhance listerial brain invasion suggesting that crossing of the blood brain barrier and crossing of the intestinal epithelium are achieved byListeria monocytogenesthrough different molecular mechanisms.
An international longitudinal registry of patients with atrial fibrillation at risk of stroke (GARFIELD): the UK protocol
Authors: Apenteng Patricia N , Murray Ellen T , Holder Roger , Hobbs F D Richard , Fitzmaurice David A ,   UK GARFIELD Investigators and GARFIELD Steering Committee
Published: April 2013

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an independent risk factor for stroke and a significant predictor of mortality. Evidence-based guidelines for stroke prevention in AF recommend antithrombotic therapy corresponding to the risk of stroke. In practice, many patients with AF do not receive the appropriate antithrombotic therapy and are left either unprotected or inadequately protected against stroke. The purpose of the Global Anticoagulant Registry in the FIELD (GARFIELD) is to determine the real-life management and outcomes of patients newly diagnosed with non-valvular AF.

Methods/design

GARFIELD is an observational, international registry of newly diagnosed AF patients with at least one additional investigator-defined risk factor for stroke. The aim is to enrol 55,000 patients at more than 1000 centres in 50 countries worldwide. Enrolment will take place in five independent, sequential, prospective cohorts; the first cohort includes a retrospective validation cohort. Each cohort will be followed up for 2 years. The UK stands to be a significant contributor to GARFIELD, aiming to enrol 4,582 patients, and reflecting the care environment in which patients with AF are managed. The UK protocol will also focus on better understanding the validity of the two main stroke risk scores (CHADS2 and CHA2DS2VASC) and the HAS-BLED bleeding risk score, in the context of a diverse patient population.

Discussion

The GARFIELD registry will describe how therapeutic strategies, patient care, and clinical outcomes evolve over time. This study will provide UK-specific comprehensive data that will allow a range of evaluations both at a national level and in relation to global data and contribute to a better understanding of AF management in the UK.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrial.gov: NCT01090362
Deterioration of filtering bleb morphology and function after phacoemulsification
Authors: Sałaga-Pylak Monika , Kowal Małgorzata , Żarnowski Tomasz
Published: April 2013

Background

Trabeculectomy remains the most efficient method of lowering he IOP applied for the treatment of glaucoma refractory to pharmacological treatment. Cataract is concerned as the most frequent late complication of trabeculectomy. The aim of the study was to analyse the effect of phacoemulsification with posterior chamber lens implantation on the morphology and function of filtering bleb in patients after previous successful trabeculectomy.

Methods

The retrospective study included 122 eyes treated for primary open angle glaucoma, 50 eyes (study group) in which, after a successful trabeculectomy with5-Fluorouracil, phacoemulsification with posterior chamber lens implantation was performed, and 72 eyes (control group), in which only a successful trabeculectomy was conducted. The surgical success of the trabeculectomy was expressed as IOP < 17 mmHg.

Results

In the group of patients subjected to both trabeculectomy and phacoemulsification, mean IOP was significantly higher than in the group of patients who underwent trabeculectomy after 6 months (p = 0.003), 12 months (p = 0.01) and 18 months (p = 0.007) of observation. The filtering blebs after phacoemulsification in the study group were characterized by a greater reduction, compared to those in the control group. Cox regression survival success was 75% (SE = 5.9; 95% CI: 63.4 – 86.6), 75% (SE = 5.9; 95% CI: 63.4 – 86.6), 71% (SE = 5.4; 95% CI: 60.4 – 81.6) in study group and 92% (SE = 1.8; 95% CI: 91.5 – 98.5), 92% (SE = 1.9; 95% CI: 88.3 – 95.7), 91% (SE = 2.0; 95% CI: 87.1 – 94.9) in control group after 6, 12 and 18 months, respectively.

Conclusions

Phacoemulsification causes a significant elevation of IOP in the eyes after previous successful trabeculectomy and deterioration of filtering bleb morphology.
Risk of musculoskeletal disorder among Taiwanese nurses cohort: a nationwide population-based study
Authors: Chung Yueh-Chin , Hung Chin-Tun , Li Shu-Fen , Lee Horng-Mo , Wang Shyang-Guang , Chang Shu-Chuan , Pai Lee-Wen , Huang Chien-Ning , Yang Jen-Hung
Published: April 2013

Background

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) represent the leading causes of occupational injuries among nursing staff. This population-based study was designed to assess the incidence and age-specific incidence of MSDs among a Taiwanese nurse cohort compared with non-nurses.

Description

Data from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database were used to identify MSDs in the study population. A total of 3914 nurses with a diagnosis of MSD were included, together with 11,744 non-nurses as a comparison group. The comparison subjects were randomly selected at a ratio of 3:1 relative to the nurse population and were matched by gender and age. The incidence of MSDs was calculated for the study group, with nurse-to-reference risk ratios presented as odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). During the period 2004–2010, 3004 MSDs occurred among the nurses (76.24%) and 7779 (65.79%) in the non-nurses. The annual incidence of MSDs for the nurses increased from 28.35% in 2006 to 33.65% in 2010. The nurse-to-reference risk ratio was 1.27 (95% CI 1.19–1.35) in 2004 and 1.46 (1.37–1.55) in 2010. Herniation of intervertebral disc, lumbago, rotator cuff syndrome, medial epicondylitis, trigger finger and carpal tunnel syndrome were the most common problems.

Conclusions

Nurses are at higher risk of MSDs and the trend is increasing. Incorrect work-related posture/movement, psychological issues and the rolling shift system may be the major causes of MSDs among nurses in Taiwan.
Vestibular function in superficial siderosis
Authors: Miwa Toru , Minoda Ryosei , Matsuyoshi Hidetake
Published: April 2013

Background

Superficial siderosis (SS) is caused by repeated or continuous bleeding into the subarachnoid space that results in iron from hemoglobin (hemosiderin) being deposited on the surface of the brain. Clinically, the condition is characterized by sensorineural deafness, ataxia, and pyramidal signs. However the mechanism of peripheral vestibular disturbance was not revealed. We show the vestibular function of SS patients, and shed light on saccule-inferior vestibular nerve.

Methods

Over the past 9 years, 5 patients were definitively diagnosed with SS by MRI in our department. These patients were subjected to balance testing.

Results

Vestibular evoked myogenic potential (VEMP) was observed in patients who had suffered from SS for a short period but tended to be diminished or absent in patients who had suffered from the condition for a longer period.

Conclusions

These findings in SS patients suggest that saccule-inferior vestibular function is maintained at early stages of the disorder. Our study may help to clarify the mechanism of SS.
Semi-rational engineering of cellobiose dehydrogenase for improved hydrogen peroxide production
Authors: Sygmund Christoph , Santner Paul , Krondorfer Iris , Peterbauer Clemens K , Alcalde Miguel , Nyanhongo Gibson S , Guebitz Georg M , Ludwig Roland
Published: April 2013

Background

The ability of fungal cellobiose dehydrogenase (CDH) to generate H2O2
in-situ is highly interesting for biotechnological applications like cotton bleaching, laundry detergents or antimicrobial functionalization of medical devices. CDH’s ability to directly use polysaccharide derived mono- and oligosaccharides as substrates is a considerable advantage compared to other oxidases such as glucose oxidase which are limited to monosaccharides. However CDH’s low activity with oxygen as electron acceptor hampers its industrial use for H2O2 production. A CDH variant with increased oxygen reactivity is therefore of high importance for biotechnological application. Uniform expression levels and an easy to use screening assay is a necessity to facilitate screening for CDH variants with increased oxygen turnover.

Results

A uniform production and secretion of active Myriococcum thermophilum CDH was obtained by using Saccharomyces cerevisiae as expression host. It was found that the native secretory leader sequence of the cdh gene gives a 3 times higher expression than the prepro leader of the yeast α-mating factor. The homogeneity of the expression in 96-well deep-well plates was good (variation coefficient <15%). A high-throughput screening assay was developed to explore saturation mutagenesis libraries of cdh for improved H2O2 production. A 4.5-fold increase for variant N700S over the parent enzyme was found. For production, N700S was expressed in P. pastoris and purified to homogeneity. Characterization revealed that not only the kcat for oxygen turnover was increased in N700S (4.5-fold), but also substrate turnover. A 3-fold increase of the kcat for cellobiose with alternative electron acceptors indicates that mutation N700S influences the oxidative- and reductive FAD half-reaction.

Conclusions

Site-directed mutagenesis and directed evolution of CDH is simplified by the use of S. cerev isiae instead of the high-yield-host P. pastoris due to easier handling and higher transformation efficiencies with autonomous plasmids. Twelve clones which exhibited an increased H2O2 production in the subsequent screening were all found to carry the same amino acid exchange in the cdh gene (N700S). The sensitive location of the five targeted amino acid positions in the active site of CDH explains the high rate of variants with decreased or entirely abolished activity. The discovery of only one beneficial exchange indicates that a dehydrogenase’s oxygen turnover is a complex phenomenon and the increase therefore not an easy target for protein engineering.
The assessment of developmental status using the Ages and Stages questionnaire-3 in nutritional research in north Indian young children
Authors: Kvestad Ingrid , Taneja Sunita , Kumar Tivendra , Bhandari Nita , Strand Tor A , Hysing Mari
Published: April 2013

Objective and background

For large epidemiological studies in low and middle-income countries, inexpensive and easily administered developmental assessment tools are called for. This report evaluates the feasibility of the assessment tool Ages and Stages Questionnaire 3.edition (ASQ-3) “home procedure” in a field trial in 422 North Indian young children.

Methods

ASQ-3 was translated and adjusted for a North Indian Hindi setting. Three examiners were trained by a clinical psychologist to perform the assessments. During the main study, ten % of the assessments were done by two examiners to estimate inter-observer agreement. During all sessions, the examiners recorded whether the scoring was based on observation of the skill during the session, or on caregiver’s report of the child’s skill. Intra class correlation coefficient was calculated to estimate the agreement between the raters and between the raters and a gold standard. Pearson product moment correlation coefficient and standardized alphas were calculated to measure internal consistency.

Principal findings

Inter-observer agreement was strong both during training exercises and during the main study. In the Motor subscales and the Problem Solving subscale most items could be observed during the session. The standardized alphas for the total ASQ-3 scale across all ages were strong, while the alpha values for the different subscales and age levels varied. The correlations between the total score and the subscale scores were consistently strong, while the correlations between subscale scores were moderate.

Conclusions/significance

We found that the translated and adjusted ASQ-3 “home procedure” was a feasible procedure for the collection of reliable data on the developmental status in infants and young children. Examiners were effectively trained over a short period of time, and the total ASQ scores showed adequate variability. However, further adjustments are needed to obtain satisfying alpha values in all subscales, and to ensure variability in all items when transferred to a North Indian cultural context.
Slab thickness tuning approach for solid-state strong coupling between photonic crystal slab nanocavity and a quantum dot
Authors: Chen Gengyan , Liu Jing-Feng , Jiang Haoxiang , Zhuo Xiao-Lu , Yu Yi-Cong , Jin Chongjun , Wang Xue-Hua
Published: April 2013

The quality factor and mode volume of a nanocavity play pivotal roles in realizing the strong coupling interaction between the nanocavity mode and a quantum dot. We present an extremely simple method to obtain the mode volume and investigate the effect of the slab thickness on the quality factor and mode volume of photonic crystal slab nanocavities. We reveal that the mode volume is approximatively proportional to the slab thickness. As compared with the previous structure finely optimized by introducing displacement of the air holes, via tuning the slab thickness, the quality factor can be enhanced by about 22%, and the ratio between the coupling coefficient and the nanocavity decay rate can be enhanced by about 13%. This can remarkably enhance the capability of the photonic crystal slab nanocavity for realizing the strong coupling interaction. The slab thickness tuning approach is feasible and significant for the experimental fabrication of the solid-state nanocavities.
A self-powered UV photodetector based on TiO2 nanorod arrays
Authors: Xie Yanru , Wei Lin , Wei Guodong , Li Qinghao , Wang Dong , Chen Yanxue , Yan Shishen , Liu Guolei , Mei Liangmo , Jiao Jun
Published: April 2013

Large-area vertical rutile TiO2 nanorod arrays (TNAs) were grown on F/SnO2 conductive glass using a hydrothermal method at low temperature. A self-powered ultraviolet (UV) photodetector based on TiO2 nanorod/water solid–liquid heterojunction is designed and fabricated. These nanorods offer an enlarged TiO2/water contact area and a direct pathway for electron transport simultaneously. By connecting this UV photodetector to an ammeter, the intensity of UV light can be quantified using the output short-circuit photocurrent without a power source. A photosensitivity of 0.025 A/W and a quick response time were observed. At the same time, a high photosensitivity in a wide range of wavelength was also demonstrated. This TNA/water UV detector can be a particularly suitable candidate for practical applications for its high photosensitivity, fast response, excellent spectral selectivity, uncomplicated low-cost fabrication process, and environment-friendly feature.
A bifurcation problem for a class of periodically perturbed autonomous parabolic equations
Authors: Kamenskii Mikhail , Mikhaylenko Boris , Nistri Paolo
Published: April 2013

The paper deals with the problem of the existence of a branch ofT-periodic solutions originating from the isolated limit cycle of an autonomous parabolic equation in a Banach space when it is perturbed by a nonlinearT-periodic term of small amplitude.

We solve this problem by first introducing a novel integral operator, whose fixed points areT-periodic solutions of the considered equation andvice versa. Then we compute the Malkin bifurcation function associated to this integral operator and we provide conditions under which the well-known assumption of the existence of a simple zero of the Malkin bifurcation function guarantees the existence of the branch.

MSC:35K58, 35B10, 35B20, 35B32.
Development of a transmission model for dengue virus
Authors: Christofferson Rebecca C , McCracken Michael K , Johnson Ann-Marie , Chisenhall Daniel M , Mores Christopher N
Published: April 2013

Background

Dengue virus (DENV) research has historically been hampered by the lack of a susceptible vertebrate transmission model. Recently, there has been progress towards such models using several varieties of knockout mice, particularly those deficient in type I and II interferon receptors. Based on the critical nature of the type I interferon response in limiting DENV infection establishment, we assessed the permissiveness of a mouse strain with a blunted type I interferon response via gene deficiencies in interferon regulatory factors 3 and 7 (IRF3/7−/− −/−) with regards to DENV transmission success. We investigated the possibility of transmission to the mouse by needle and infectious mosquito, and subsequent transmission back to mosquito from an infected animal during its viremic period.

Methods

Mice were inoculated subcutaneously with non-mouse adapted DENV-2 strain 1232 and serum was tested for viral load and cytokine production each day. Additionally, mosquitoes were orally challenged with the same DENV-2 strain via artificial membrane feeder, and then allowed to forage or naïve mice. Subsequently, we determined acquisition potential by allowing naïve mosquitoes on forage on exposed mice during their viremic period.

Results

Both needle inoculation and infectious mosquito bite(s) resulted in 100% infection. Significant differences between these groups in viremia on the two days leading to peak viremia were observed, though no significant difference in cytokine production was seen. Through our determination of transmission and acquisition potentials, the transmission cycle (mouse-to mosquito-to mouse) was completed. We confirmed that the IRF3/7−/− −/−mouse supports DENV replication and is competent for transmission experiments, with the ability to use a non-mouse adapted DENV-2 strain. A significant finding of this study was that this IRF3/7−/− −/−mouse strain was able to be infected by and transmit virus to mosquitoes, thus providing means to replicate the natural transmission cycle of DENV.

Conclusion

As there is currently no approved vaccine for DENV, public health monitoring and a greater understanding of transmission dynamics leading to outbreak events are critical. The further characterization of DENV using this model will expand knowledge of key entomological, virological and immunological components of infection establishment and transmission events.
Total dietary fat and omega-3 fatty acids have modest effects on urinary sex hormones in postmenopausal women
Authors: Young Lindsay R , Raatz Susan K , Thomas William , Redmon J Bruce , Kurzer Mindy S
Published: April 2013

Background

Total fat and omega-3 fatty acids in the diet may affect breast cancer risk by altering estrogen metabolism. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the effects of differing total fat and omega-3 fatty acid content of diets on a panel of urinary estrogens and metabolites.

Findings

A controlled, cross-over feeding trial was conducted in postmenopausal women using three test diets: high fat diet (HF; 40% energy from fat), low fat diet (LF; 20% of energy from fat) and low fat, high omega-3 diet (LFn3; 23% energy from fat; 3% omega-3 fatty acids) for 8 week periods. Urinary hormone concentrations for 16 women were compared among diets using a linear mixed model, and within diet comparisons were made using paired t-tests. Urinary excretion of estrone was greater after the LF and LFn3 compared to the HF (P = 0.004). Estrone excretion was increased from baseline within the LF only (P = 0.02). Total estrone + estradiol + estriol increased from baseline with LF (P = 0.02) and was greater than the other two diets at 8 weeks (P = 0.03). There were no effects on estrogen metabolites, including the 2-hydroxy estrone:16α-hydroxy estrone ratio.

Conclusions

The results of this study indicate that urinary sex hormone metabolism was modestly altered in postmenopausal women by a low fat dietary intervention.
Bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity of Rosa canina L.biotypes from spontaneous flora of Transylvania
Authors: Roman Ioana , Stănilă Andreea , Stănilă Sorin
Published: April 2013

Background

The theoretical, but especially the practical values of identifying the biochemical compounds from the Rosa canina L. fruits are of present interest, this aspect being illustrated by the numerous researches. It was reported that the Rosa canina L. fruit, with its high ascorbic acid, phenolics and flavonoids contents, have antioxidant, antimutagenic and anticarcinogenic effects.

This study was performed on order to evaluate the amount of the main phytochemicals (vitamin C, total polyphenols, and total flavonoids) content and their antioxidant activity.

Results

The results obtained revealed that the average amounts of vitamin C within the studied genotypes were: 360.22 mg/100 g frozen pulp (var. transitoria f. ramosissima, altitude 1250 m) and 112.20 mg/100 g frozen pulp (var. assiensis, altitude 440 m), giving a good correlation between the vitamin C content of the rosehip and the altitude. The total polyphenols content varied from 575 mg/100 g frozen pulp (var. transitoria f. ramosissima) to 326 mg/100 g frozen pulp (var. lutetiana f. fallens). The total flavonoids content showed the highest value for var. assiensis variant 163.3 mg/100 g frozen pulp and the lowest value attributed to var. transitoria f. montivaga 101.3 mg/100 g frozen pulp. The antioxidant activity of eight rose hip extracts from wild Transylvania populations was investigated through DPPH method. The antioxidant activity revealed a good correlation only with vitamin C content and total polyphenols.

Conclusion

Eight Rose hip fruit species were compared taking into consideration the ascorbic acid, total polyphenols, total flavonoids contents and their antioxidant activity. Based on these results, two of the rosehip genotypes that were analysed could be of perspective for these species’ amelioration, due to their content of phytochemicals mentioned above. These varieties are var. transitoria f. ramosissima (Bistrita-Nasaud, Agiesel) and var. transitoria f. montivaga (Bistrita-Nasaud, Salva) which can be used as a potential source of natural antioxidants.
Life history and assessment of grapevine phylloxera leaf galling incidence on Vitis species in Uruguay
Authors: Vidart María Valeria , Mujica María Valentina , Bao Leticia , Duarte Felicia , Bentancourt Carlos María , Franco Jorge , Scatoni Iris Beatriz
Published: April 2013

Grapevine phylloxera, Daktulosphaira vitifoliae (Fitch) (Hemiptera: Phylloxeridae) is a worldwide pest of Vitis species. It has forms that feed on leaves and roots. Root forms predominate on Vitis vinifera (L.) cultivars, while leaf forms predominate on Vitis species from its native American range. Recently, high densities of D. vitifoliae infestations in leaves of V. vinifera in Brazil, Peru, and Uruguay have been reported. The aims of this study were to determine the seasonal development of grape phylloxera, quantify infestation levels on V. vinifera leaves, and compare them with infestation levels on leaves of a rootstock of American origin. Studies were conducted in two vineyards in Uruguay from 2004–2007. Terminal shoots of 3309 C and Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Tannat, Viognier, grafted onto resistant rootstock, were sampled weekly and leaves examined for gall presence and insect life stage. First galls were detected in early October; eggs began to appear within two weeks. Two oviposition peaks occurred by the end of December, and they coincided with bursts of shoot growth. On 3309C rootstock, oviposition peaks were more frequent than on the European cultivars. Based on thermal accumulation, D. vitifoliae could complete eight generations a year in Uruguay. Rootstock 3309C suffered the greatest damage but in some cases was similar to the European cultivars. Damage to Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Viognier were also high. There were no galls on Tannat. The 2005–2006 season was characterized by low infestation rates caused by a prolonged drought that affected vegetative growth. There were also differences between vineyards, where the vigorous plants suffering more damage. Leaf galling phylloxera incidence and damage were mainly associated to the cultivar but plant vigor and environmental factors also contributed to increase the incidence.
Engineering of chitosan and collagen macromolecules using sebacic acid for clinical applications
Authors: Sailakshmi G , Mitra Tapas , Gnanamani A
Published: April 2013

Transformation of natural polymers to three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds for biomedical applications faces a number of challenges, viz., solubility, stability (mechanical and thermal), strength, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. Hence, intensive research on suitable agents to provide the requisite properties has been initiated at the global level. In the present study, an attempt was made to engineer chitosan and collagen macromolecules using sebacic acid, and further evaluation of the mechanical stability and biocompatible property of the engineered scaffold material was done. A 3D scaffold material was prepared using chitosan at 1.0% (w/v) and sebacic acid at 0.2% (w/v); similarly, collagen at 0.5% (w/v) and sebacic acid at 0.2% (w/v) were prepared individually by freeze-drying technique. Analysis revealed that the engineered scaffolds displayed an appreciable mechanical strength and, in addition, were found to be biocompatible to NIH 3T3 fibroblast cells. Studies on the chemistry behind the interaction and the characteristics of the cross-linked scaffold materials suggested that non-covalent interactions play a major role in deciding the property of the said polymer materials. The prepared scaffold was suitable for tissue engineering application as a wound dressing material.
Differences in compliance with Surviving Sepsis Campaign recommendations according to hospital entrance time: day versus night
Authors: Almeida Mónica , Ribeiro Orquídea , Aragão Irene , Costa-Pereira Altamiro , Cardoso Teresa
Published: April 2013

Introduction

Higher compliance with Surviving Sepsis Campaign (SSC) recommendations has been associated with lower mortality. The authors evaluate differences in compliance with SSC 6-hour bundle according to hospital entrance time (day versus night) and its impact on hospital mortality.

Methods

Prospective cohort study of all patients with community-acquired severe sepsis admitted to the intensive care unit of a large university tertiary care hospital, over 3.5 years with a follow-up until hospital discharge. Time to compliance with each recommendation of the SSC 6-hour bundle was calculated according to hospital entrance period: day (08:30 to 20:30) versus night (20:30 to 08:30). For the same periods, clinical staff composition and the number of patients attending the emergency department (ED) was also recorded.

Results

In this period 300 consecutive patients were included. Compliance rate was (night vs. day): serum lactate measurement 57% vs. 49% (P = 0.171), blood cultures drawn 59% vs. 37% (P < 0.001), antibiotics administration in the first 3 hours 33% vs. 18% (P = 0.003), central venous pressure >8 mmHg 45% vs. 29% (P = 0.021), and central venous oxygen saturation (SvcO2) >70%, 7% vs. 2% (P = 0.082); fluids were administered in all patients with hypotension in both periods and vasopressors were administered in patients with hypotension not responsive to fluids in 100% vs. 99%. Time to get specific actions done was also different (night vs. day): serum lactate measurement (4.5 vs. 7 h, P = 0.018), blood cultures drawn (4 vs. 8 h, P < 0.001), antibiotic administration (5 vs. 8 h, P < 0.001), central venous pressure (8 vs. 11 h, P = 0.01), and SvcO2 monitoring (2.5 vs. 11 h, P = 0.222). The composition of the nursing team was the same around the clock; the medical team was reduced at night with a higher proportion of less differentiated doctors. The number of patients attending the Emergency Department was lower overnight. Hospital mortality rate was 34% in patients entering in the night period vs. 40% in those entering during the day (P = 0.281).

Conclusion

Compliance with SSC recommendations was higher at night. A possible explanation might be the increased nurse to patient ratio in that period. Adjustment of the clinical team composition to the patients' demand is needed to increase compliance and improve prognosis.
Specific Adverse Events Predict Survival Benefit in Patients Treated With Tamoxifen or Aromatase Inhibitors: An International Tamoxifen Exemestane Adjuvant Multinational Trial Analysis
Authors: Fontein Duveken B.Y. , Seynaeve Caroline , Hadji Peyman , Hille Elysée T.M. , van de Water Willemien , Putter Hein , Kranenbarg Elma Meershoek-Klein , Hasenburg Annette , Paridaens Robert J. , Vannetzel Jean-Michel , Markopoulos Christos , Hozumi Yasuo , Bartlett John M.S. , Jones Stephen E. , Rea Daniel William , Nortier Johan W.R. , van de Velde Cornelis J.H.
Published: April 2013

Purpose

Specific adverse events (AEs) associated with endocrine therapy and related to depletion or blocking of circulating estrogens may be related to treatment efficacy. We investigated the relationship between survival outcomes and specific AEs including vasomotor symptoms (VMSs), musculoskeletal adverse events (MSAEs), and vulvovaginal symptoms (VVSs) in postmenopausal patients with breast cancer participating in the international Tamoxifen Exemestane Adjuvant Multinational (TEAM) trial.

Patients and Methods

Primary efficacy end points were disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), and distant metastases (DM). VMSs, MSAEs, and VVSs arising in the first year of endocrine treatment were considered. Patients who did not start or who discontinued their allocated therapy and/or had an event (recurrence/death) within 1 year after randomization were excluded. Landmark analyses and time-dependent multivariate Cox proportional hazards models assessed survival differences up to 5 years from the start of treatment.

Results

A total of 9,325 patients were included. Patients with specific AEs (v nonspecific or no AEs) had better DFS and OS (multivariate hazard ratio [HR] for DFS: VMSs, 0.731 [95% CI, 0.618 to 0.866]; MSAEs, 0.826 [95% CI, 0.694 to 0.982]; VVSs, 0.769 [95% CI, 0.585 to 1.01]; multivariate HR for OS: VMSs, 0.583 [95% CI, 0.424 to 0.803]; MSAEs, 0.811 [95% CI, 0.654 to 1.005]; VVSs, 0.570 [95% CI, 0.391 to 0.831]) and fewer DM (VMSs, 0.813 [95% CI, 0.664 to 0.996]; MSAEs, 0.749 [95% CI, 0.601 to 0.934]; VVSs, 0.687 [95% CI, 0.436 to 1.085]) than patients not reporting these symptoms. Increasing numbers of specific AEs were also associated with better survival outcomes. Outcomes were unrelated to treatment allocation.

Conclusion

Certain specific AEs are associated with superior survival outcomes and may therefore be useful in predicting treatment responses in patients with breast cancer treated with endocrine therapy.
American Society of Clinical Oncology Policy for Relationships With Companies: Background and Rationale
Authors:   American Society of Clinical Oncology
Published: April 2013

The American Society of Clinical Oncology's (ASCO's) new conflict of interest policy reflects a commitment to transparency and independence in the development and presentation of scientific and educational content. ASCO supports thorough and accessible disclosure of financial relationships with companies at institutional and individual levels and calls for rigorous evaluation of content in light of the information disclosed. For abstracts and articles presenting original research, ASCO holds first, last, and corresponding authors to a clear standard of independence. In imposing restrictions, the new policy focuses on the role of these authors rather than of the principal investigator(s) as in the previous policy. ASCO remains actively engaged with the broader scientific community in seeking and implementing efficient, effective approaches to conflict of interest management.
Terminal Spin Labeling of a High-mannose-type Oligosaccharide for Quantitative NMR Analysis of Its Dynamic Conformation
Authors: Yamaguchi Takumi , Kamiya Yukiko , Choo Yeun-Mun , Yamamoto Sayoko , Kato Koichi
Published: April 2013

To achieve quantitative conformational characterization of oligosaccharides possessing branched structures with internal mobility, we developed a paramagnetic tagging protocol for NMR relaxation analysis. A nitroxide spin label was attached chemically to the reducing terminus of a specific high-mannose-type undecasaccharide that was overexpressed in genetically engineered yeast cells. This hybrid approach provides a source of long-distance atomic information, enabling detailed characterization of the conformational dynamics of the triantennary sugar chain that is involved in protein-fate-determination processes in cells.
Triarylamine-conjugated Bis(terpyridine)–Iron(II) Complex Wires: Rapid and Long-range Electron-transport Ability
Authors: Sakamoto Ryota , Katagiri Shunsuke , Maeda Hiroaki , Nishihara Hiroshi
Published: April 2013

Bis(terpyridine)–iron(II) complex wires (the number of the complex units: 1–3) possessing triarylamine at the termini were fabricated on gold electrode. The electron-transfer rate constant between the triarylamine moiety and gold electrode was quantified by means of potential-step chronoamperometry, revealing that (1) triarylamine afforded fast electron transportation (i.e., large zero-distance rate constant ket0) and that (2) the distance attenuation factor, βd, was independent of the terminal redox site.
Isaac Albéniz (1860–1909): Spanish musician who died of chronic renal disease
Authors: García-Nieto Víctor M , Peralta-Aros Carolina
Published: April 2013

Isaac Albéníz was a Spanish musician and pianist who was best known in France and England. One of his last works for piano, the suite Iberia, is well-known and identifies his country of origin. He died with terminal uraemia following longstanding chronic intestinal and kidney symptoms. Suggestions as to pathology include amyloidosis complicated by kidney stones and hypertension that sometimes manifested itself in the form of hypertensive crisis, accompanied by obesity.
Two medieval doctors: Gilbertus Anglicus (c1180–c1250) and John of Gaddesden (1280–1361)
Authors: Pearn John
Published: April 2013

Biographies of medieval English doctors are uncommon and fragmentary. The two best-known English medieval physicians were Gilbertus Anglicus and John of Gaddesden. This paper brings together the known details of their lives, compiled from extant biographies and from internal references in their texts. The primary records of their writings exist in handwritten texts and thereafter in incunabula from the time of the invention of printing in 1476. The record of the lives of these two medieval physicians can be expanded, as here, by the general perspective of the life and times in which they lived. Gilbertus Anglicus, an often-quoted physician-teacher at Montpellier, wrote a seven-folio Compendium medicinae in 1271. He described pioneering procedures used later in the emergent disciplines of anaesthetics, cosmetic medicine and travel medicine. Gilbertus’ texts, used extensively in European medical schools, passed in handwritten copies from student to student and eventually were printed in 1510. John of Gaddesden, an Oxford graduate in Arts, Medicine and Theology, wrote Rosa Anglica, published circa 1314. Its detailed text is an exemplar of the mixture of received Hippocratic and Galenic lore compounded by medieval astronomy and religious injunction, which mixture was the essence of medieval medicine. The writings of both these medieval English physicians formed part of the core curriculum that underpinned the practice of medicine for the next 400 years.
ShortStack: Comprehensive annotation and quantification of small RNA genes
Authors: Axtell Michael J.
Published: April 2013

Small RNA sequencing allows genome-wide discovery, categorization, and quantification of genes producing regulatory small RNAs. Many tools have been described for annotation and quantification of microRNA loci (MIRNAs) from small RNA-seq data. However, in many organisms and tissue types, MIRNA genes comprise only a small fraction of all small RNA-producing genes. ShortStack is a stand-alone application that analyzes reference-aligned small RNA-seq data and performs comprehensive de novo annotation and quantification of the inferred small RNA genes. ShortStack’s output reports multiple parameters of direct relevance to small RNA gene annotation, including RNA size distributions, repetitiveness, strandedness, hairpin-association, MIRNA annotation, and phasing. In this study, ShortStack is demonstrated to perform accurate annotations and useful descriptions of diverse small RNA genes from four plants (Arabidopsis, tomato, rice, and maize) and three animals (Drosophila, mice, and humans). ShortStack efficiently processes very large small RNA-seq data sets using modest computational resources, and its performance compares favorably to previously described tools. Annotation of MIRNA loci by ShortStack is highly specific in both plants and animals. ShortStack is freely available under a GNU General Public License.