bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polyphenols Extracted from Black Tea (Camellia sinensis) Residue by Hot‐Compressed Water and Their Inhibitory Effect on Pancreatic Lipase in vitro
Authors: Yuda Naoki , Tanaka Miyuki , Suzuki Manabu , Asano Yuzo , Ochi Hiroshi , Iwatsuki Keiji
Published: October 2012

Abstract:  Polyphenols, retained in black tea wastes following the commercial production of tea beverages, represent an underutilized resource. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential use of hot‐compressed water (HCW) for the extraction of pancreatic lipase‐inhibiting polyphenols from black tea residues. Black tea residues were treated with HCW at 10 °C intervals, from 100 to 200 °C. The resulting extracts were analyzed using high‐performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry and assayed to determine their inhibitory effect on pancreatic lipase activity in vitro. Four theaflavins (TF), 5 catechins, 2 quercetin glycosides, quinic acid, gallic acid, and caffeine were identified. The total polyphenol content of extracts increased with increasing temperature but lipase inhibitors (TF, theaflavin 3‐O‐gallate, theaflavin 3′‐O‐gallate, theaflavin 3,3′‐O‐gallate, epigallocatechin gallate, and epicatechin gallate) decreased over 150 °C. All extracts inhibited pancreatic lipase but extracts obtained at 100 to 140 °C showed the greatest lipase inhibition (IC50s of 0.9 to 1.3 μg/mL), consistent with the optimal extraction of TFs and catechins except catechin by HCW between 130 and 150 °C. HCW can be used to extract pancreatic lipase‐inhibiting polyphenols from black tea waste. These extracts have potential uses, as dietary supplements and medications, for the prevention and treatment of obesity.

Practical Application:  Active forms of lipase inhibitors can be recovered from black tea residues. They could be used as dietary supplements or medications.
Microbiological Properties and Biogenic Amines of Whole Pike‐Perch (Sander Lucioperca, Linnaeus 1758): A Perspective on Fish Safety During Postharvest Handling Practices and Frozen Storage
Authors: Ehsani Ali , Jasour Mohammad Sedigh
Published: October 2012

Abstract:  The biogenic amines (tyramine, histamine, cadaverine, and puterscine) and microbiological properties (mesophilic, psychrotrophic, and Pseudomonas spp.) of whole pike‐perch (Sander lucioperca) was investigated during 2 d prestorage icing and 90 d frozen storage (−24 °C). At the end of ice storage, a noticeable increase only was found for puterscine level (P < 0.05), and microbial loads of fish increased in comparison with fresh fish (P < 0.05). During the frozen storage, as time passed, a continuous increase of biogenic amines and decrease of bacterial load (except for Pseudomonas spp. at the last 30 d) was detected (P < 0.05). The total contents of biogenic amines ranged from 6.24 to 91.76 μg/g during the investigated period. Puterscine was the major amine detected in pike‐perch and its concentration varied between 1.75 and 56.95 μg/g; due to a more step‐wise increase it was a good quality indicator. At the end of storage, all of the obtained values are below the tolerable maximum amounts based on available regulations. Based on biogenic amines content and microbial load, it could be concluded that pike‐perch can be consumed without any health risks after 2 d icing condition and 90 d frozen storage.

Practical Application:  Biogenic amines as one of the commonest forms of food intoxication occur in protein‐rich food such as fish. Short‐time icing during transportation is the simplest method to fish preserving for processing or long‐term storage. In this study formation of biogenic amines and bacterial changes in ungutted pike‐perch as highly demanded fish species for human consumption, during transportation and frozen storage was investigated. The results of the research can be advantageously used by fish industry. These findings suggest that the production and storage practices of fish in the retails condition could have acceptable food quality level.
Enhanced Piezoelectric Properties of (Ba1−xCax)(Ti0.92Sn0.08)O3 Lead‐Free Ceramics
Authors: Zhu Li‐Feng , Zhang Bo‐Ping , Zhao Xiao‐Kun , Zhao Lei , Zhou Peng‐Fei , Li Jing‐Feng
Published: October 2012

(Ba1−xCax)(Ti0.92Sn0.08)O3 (x = 0.00–0.06 mol) ceramics with a high relative density over 96% were prepared by a conventional sintering method at 1480°C. At room temperature, a polymorphic phase transition from orthorhombic phase to tetragonal phase was confirmed by the XRD patterns in the composition range of 0.04 ≤ x ≤ 0.06. A high piezoelectric coefficient d33 up to 568 pC/N was obtained at x = 0.05 mol, which is higher than the other component of (Ba,Ca)(Ti,Sn)O3 system. At the same time, the corresponding planar electromechanical coupling factor kp, converse piezoelectric coefficient dS/dE, and dielectric constant εr reach 47.7%, 1013 pm/V, and 23000, respectively. These results indicate that the (Ba,Ca)(Ti,Sn)O3 ceramics are a promising candidate to replace for the lead‐based piezoelectric materials.
Nanocrystalline/Nanosized Ni1−γFe2+γO4 Ferrite Obtained by Contamination with Fe During Milling of NiO–Fe2O3 Mixture. Structural and Magnetic Characterization
Authors: Marinca Traian F. , Chicinaş Ionel , Isnard Olivier , Popescu Violeta
Published: October 2012

The nanocrystalline nickel ferrite (NiFe2O4) was synthesized by reactive milling starting from equimolar mixture of oxides. The iron contamination during milling leads to a solid state reaction between Fe and NiFe2O4 spinel. This reaction starts for a milling time longer than 30 h. A mixed nickel–iron ferrite (Ni1−γFe2+γO4) and elemental Ni are obtained. The evolution of the nickel–iron mixed ferrite during milling and its properties were investigated using X‐ray diffraction, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Laser Particles Size Analyzer and magnetic measurements. Annealing treatment (350°C/4 h in vacuum) is favorable to the reaction between phases. Replacement of Ni2+ cations by iron cations provided by contamination leads to the increase of lattice parameter value of the spinel structure. The magnetization of the nickel–iron mixed ferrite newly formed is larger than the nickel ferrite magnetization (13.6 μB/f.u. and 6.22 μB/f.u., respectively), due to the magnetic moment of Fe2+ cation which is double as compared to the Ni2+ cation. Magnetization of the milled samples decreases during milling due to the structural changes induced by milling in the nickel–iron mixed ferrite. The annealing induces a reordering of the cations which leads to a larger magnetization.
Preparation, Characterization, and In Vitro Bioactivity of Nagelschmidtite Bioceramics
Authors: Wu Chengtie , Fan Wei , Chang Jiang , Zhang Meili , Xiao Yin
Published: October 2012

The aim of this study is to prepare Ca, P and Si‐containing ternary oxide nagelschmidtite (NAGEL, Ca7Si2P2O16) bioceramics and explore their in vitro bioactivity for potential bone tissue regeneration. We prepared dense NAGEL ceramics through high‐temperature sintering of NAGEL ceramic powders. The apatite‐mineralization ability, dissolution rate, and human osteoblast response (including cytotoxicity analysis, attachment, morphology, proliferation, and bone‐related gene expression) to NAGEL ceramics have been systematically studied by comparing with conventional β‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP) ceramics. The results showed that NAGEL ceramics possessed more obvious apatite mineralization and dissolution (degradation) and stimulated bone‐related gene expression (OCN and OPN) of osteoblasts than β‐TCP ceramics. NAGEL ceramics also showed no significant cytotoxicity. NAGEL ceramics supported osteoblast attachment, proliferation, and osteogenic gene expression, with a comparable cell proliferation activity with β‐TCP ceramics. These results indicate that novel NAGEL bioceramics with the specific composition of Ca7Si2P2O16, are a promising biomaterial for bone tissue regeneration application.
Implant decontamination during surgical peri‐implantitis treatment: a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: de Waal Yvonne C. M. , Raghoebar Gerry M. , Huddleston Slater James J. R. , Meijer Henny J. A. , Winkel Edwin G. , van Winkelhoff Arie Jan
Published: October 2012

Aim

The objective of this randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial was to study the effect of implant surface decontamination with chlorhexidine (CHX)/cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) on microbiological and clinical parameters.

Material & Methods

Thirty patients (79 implants) with peri‐implantitis were treated with resective surgical treatment consisting of apically re‐positioned flap, bone re‐contouring and surface debridement and decontamination. Patients were randomly allocated to decontamination with 0.12% CHX + 0.05% CPC (test‐group) or a placebo‐solution (without CHX/CPC, placebo‐group). Microbiological parameters were recorded during surgery; clinical and radiographical parameters were recorded before (pre‐) treatment (baseline), and at 3, 6 and 12 months after treatment.

Results

Nine implants in two patients in the placebo‐group were lost due to severe persisting peri‐implantitis. Both decontamination procedures resulted in significant reductions of bacterial load on the implant surface, but the test‐group showed a significantly greater reduction than the placebo‐group (log 4.21 ± 1.89 versus log 2.77 ± 2.12, p = 0.006). Multilevel analysis showed no differences between both groups in the effect of the intervention on bleeding, suppuration, probing pocket depth and radiographical bone loss over time.

Conclusion

Implant surface decontamination with 0.12% CHX + 0.05% CPC in resective surgical treatment of peri‐implantitis leads to a greater immediate suppression of anaerobic bacteria on the implant surface than a placebo‐solution, but does not lead to superior clinical results. The long‐term microbiological effect remains unknown.
Identification of phosphorylation sites in the COOH‐terminal tail of the μ‐opioid receptor
Authors: Chen Ying‐Ju , Oldfield Sue , Butcher Adrian J. , Tobin Andrew B. , Saxena Kunal , Gurevich Vsevolod V. , Benovic Jeffrey L. , Henderson Graeme , Kelly Eamonn
Published: October 2012

Phosphorylation is considered a key event in the signalling and regulation of the μ opioid receptor (MOPr). Here, we used mass spectroscopy to determine the phosphorylation status of the C‐terminal tail of the rat MOPr expressed in human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK‐293) cells. Under basal conditions, MOPr is phosphorylated on Ser363 and Thr370, while in the presence of morphine or [D‐Ala2, NMe‐Phe4, Gly‐ol5]‐enkephalin (DAMGO), the COOH terminus is phosphorylated at three additional residues, Ser356, Thr357 and Ser375. Using N‐terminal glutathione S transferase (GST) fusion proteins of the cytoplasmic, C‐terminal tail of MOPr and point mutations of the same, we show that, in vitro, purified G protein‐coupled receptor kinase 2 (GRK2) phosphorylates Ser375, protein kinase C (PKC) phosphorylates Ser363, while CaMKII phosphorylates Thr370. Phosphorylation of the GST fusion protein of the C‐terminal tail of MOPr enhanced its ability to bind arrestin‐2 and ‐3. Hence, our study identifies both the basal and agonist‐stimulated phospho‐acceptor sites in the C‐terminal tail of MOPr, and suggests that the receptor is subject to phosphorylation and hence regulation by multiple protein kinases.
Analysis of the daily changes of melatonin receptors in the rat liver
Authors: Venegas Carmen , García José A. , Doerrier Carolina , Volt Huayqui , Escames Germaine , López Luis C. , Reiter Russel J. , Acuña‐Castroviejo Darío
Published: October 2012

Melatonin membrane (MT1 and MT2) and nuclear (RORα) receptors have been identified in several mammalian tissues, including the liver. The mechanisms regulating hepatic melatonin receptors are yet unknown. This study investigated whether these receptors exhibit daily changes and the effects of melatonin on their levels. Our results show that mRNAs for MT1/MT2 receptors exhibit circadian rhythms that were followed by rhythms in their respective protein levels; the acrophases for the two rhythms were reached at 04:00 and 05:00 hr, respectively. Pinealectomy blunted the rhythms in both mRNAs and protein levels. In contrast, mRNA and protein levels of nuclear receptor RORα increased significantly after pinealectomy. The cycles of the latter receptor also exhibited circadian rhythms which peaked at 03:00 and 03:45 hr, respectively. Melatonin administration (10–200 mg/kg) increased in a dose‐dependent manner the protein content of MT1/MT2 receptors, with no effects on RORα. Lunzindole treatment, however, did not affect melatonin receptor expression or content of either the membrane or nuclear receptors. Together with previously published findings which demonstrated the intracellular distribution of melatonin in rat liver, the current results support the conclusion that the circadian rhythms of MT1/MT2 and RORα receptors are under the control of the serum and intracellular melatonin levels. Moreover, the induction of MT1/MT2 receptors after the administration of high doses of melatonin further suggests that the therapeutic value of melatonin may not be restricted to only low doses of the indoleamine.
Reconstructing the evolutionary history of an endangered subspecies across the changing landscape of the Great Central Valley of California
Authors: Matocq Marjorie D. , Kelly Patrick A. , Phillips Scott E. , Maldonado Jesus E.
Published: October 2012

Identifying historic patterns of population genetic diversity and connectivity is a primary challenge in efforts to re‐establish the processes that have generated and maintained genetic variation across natural landscapes. The challenge of reconstructing pattern and process is even greater in highly altered landscapes where population extinctions and dramatic demographic fluctuations in remnant populations may have substantially altered, if not eliminated, historic patterns. Here, we seek to reconstruct historic patterns of diversity and connectivity in an endangered subspecies of woodrat that now occupies only 1–2 remnant locations within the highly altered landscape of the Great Central Valley of California. We examine patterns of diversity and connectivity using 14 microsatellite loci and sequence data from a mitochondrial locus and a nuclear intron. We reconstruct temporal change in habitat availability to establish several historical scenarios that could have led to contemporary patterns of diversity, and use an approximate Bayesian computation approach to test which of these scenarios is most consistent with our observed data. We find that the Central Valley populations harbour unique genetic variation coupled with a history of admixture between two well‐differentiated species of woodrats that are currently restricted to the woodlands flanking the Valley. Our simulations also show that certain commonly used analytical approaches may fail to recover a history of admixture when populations experience severe bottlenecks subsequent to hybridization. Overall our study shows the strength of combining empirical and simulation analyses to recover the history of populations occupying highly altered landscapes.
PFT1, a transcriptional Mediator complex subunit, controls root hair differentiation through reactive oxygen species (ROS) distribution in Arabidopsis
Authors: Sundaravelpandian Kalaipandian , Chandrika Nulu Naga Prafulla , Schmidt Wolfgang
Published: October 2012

Root hair morphogenesis is driven by an amalgam of interacting processes controlled by complex signaling events. Redox processes and transcriptional control are critical for root hair development. However, the molecular mechanisms that integrate redox state and transcription are largely unknown.

To elucidate a possible role of transcriptional Mediators in root hair formation, we analyzed the Arabidopsis root hair phenotype of T‐DNA insertion lines that harbor homozygous mutations in genes encoding Mediator subunits.

Genetic evidence indicates that the Mediator subunits PFT1/MED25 and MED8 are critical for root hair differentiation, but act via separate mechanisms. Transcriptional profiling of pft1 roots revealed that PFT1 activates a subset of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)‐producing class III peroxidases. pft1 mutants showed perturbed H2O2 and superoxide () distribution, suggesting that PFT1 is essential to maintain redox homeostasis in the root. Chemical treatments rescued the pft1 mutant phenotype, indicating that correct reactive oxygen species (ROS) distribution is an essential prerequisite for root hair differentiation. In addition, PFT1 positively regulates cell wall remodeling genes that are essential for root hair formation.

Our results demonstrate that PFT1 maintains ROS distribution which, in turn, controls root hair differentiation. Thus, our findings reveal a novel mechanism in which the Mediator controls ROS homeostasis by regulating the transcriptional machinery.
Application of CFD Simulation to Predicting Upper‐Room UVGI Effectiveness
Authors: Gilkeson Carl A , Noakes Catherine
Published: October 2012

This study outlines the potential for Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation to be used to predict upper‐room ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) effectiveness to aid system design and the development of future guidance. A numerical study of two wall‐mounted UVGI lamps in a mechanically ventilated test chamber is used to assess the influence of modeling parameters on prediction of dose distribution and microorganism inactivation. Irradiance fields for both UVGI fixtures are obtained via radiometry and implemented in the model. A series of sensitivity studies consider the importance of UVGI field accuracy and computational grid and turbulence model selection. Results show that 2D irradiance fields are sufficient for calculating dose and in‐activation, whereas a 1D field is inadequate for modeling purposes. Further parametric studies consider the effects of ventilation parameters, UVGI lamp configuration and microorganism susceptibility. These demonstrate the feasibility of modeling the interaction of the airflow and UV field in a room to quantify the dose distribution. Microorganism in‐activation can also be accomplished by employing passive scalars and species transport models, however, further validation data are necessary before this can be used to make reliable quantitative predictions.
Assessment of Meiotic Spindle Configuration and Post‐Warming Bovine Oocyte Viability Using Polarized Light Microscopy
Authors: Caamaño JN , Díez C , Trigal B , Muñoz M , Morató R , Martín D , Carrocera S , Mogas T , Gómez E
Published: October 2012

Contents

The objectives of this study were to assess the efficiency of polarized light microscopy (PLM) in detecting microtubule‐polymerized protein in in vitro‐matured bovine oocytes; to examine its effects on oocyte developmental competence; and to assess the meiotic spindle of in vitro‐matured oocytes after vitrification/warming and further assessment of oocyte developmental competence. In the first experiment, the presence of microtubule‐polymerized protein (MPP) was confirmed as a positive PLM signal detected in 99.1% of analysed oocytes (n = 115), which strongly correlated (r = 1; p < 0.0001) with the presence of MPP as confirmed by immunostaining. In the second experiment, oocytes (n = 651) were exposed or not (controls) to PLM for 10 min and then fertilized and cultured in vitro. Oocytes exposed to PLM did not significantly differ from controls with regard to cleavage, total blastocyst and expanded blastocyst rates and cell numbers. In the third experiment, meiotic spindles were detected in 145 of 182 oocytes (79.6%) following vitrification and warming. Interestingly, after parthenogenetic activation and in vitro culture, oocytes that displayed a positive PLM signal PLM(+) differed significantly from PLM(−) in cleavage and Day 8 blastocyst rates. These results suggest that polarized light microscopy is an efficient system to detect microtubule‐polymerized protein in in vitro‐matured bovine oocytes and does not exert detrimental effects on bovine oocyte developmental competence. Moreover, PLM could be used as a tool to assess post‐warming viability in vitrified bovine oocytes.
The Discrete Topology Optimization of Structures Using the Improved Hybrid Discretization Model
Authors: Zhou Hong , Patil Rutesh B.
Published: October 2012

In the discrete topology optimization, material state is either solid or void and there is no topology uncertainty caused by any intermediate material state. In this paper, the improved hybrid discretization model is introduced for the discrete topology optimization of structures. The design domain is discretized into quadrilateral design cells and each quadrilateral design cell is further subdivided into triangular analysis cells. The dangling and redundant solid design cells are completely eliminated from topology solutions in the improved hybrid discretization model to avoid sharp protrusions. The local stress constraint is directly imposed on each triangular analysis cell to make the designed structure safe. The binary bit-array genetic algorithm is used to search for the optimal topology to circumvent the geometrical bias against the vertical design cells. The presented discrete topology optimization procedure is illustrated by two topology optimization examples of structures.
Analysis of Lubricating Performance for Involute Gear Based on Dynamic Loading Theory
Authors: Yuan Shi H. , Dong Hui L. , Li Xue Y.
Published: October 2012

An integrated model for gear pair that combines the dynamic load with the mixed elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) theory is proposed in this paper covering the film squeeze effect as well as the friction force generated from the rough surfaces. Comparisons between the two models of load which are, respectively, based on minimum elastic potential energy (MEPE) criterion and dynamic motion equations built up in this paper are discussed. The results show that at low speed the loads calculated by the two models are similar. However, with increasing speed, the load exhibits dynamic characteristics gradually and reaches the highest value at resonant speed. Besides, the effects of the helix angle and the lubricant viscosity are also analyzed. Increasing the ambient viscosity could intensify the film stiffness and viscous damping. Gear with larger helix angle could weaken the impact phenomenon at the shift points where one tooth-pair disengages. Moreover, it is symmetric with regard to the pressure and film thickness across the face width for spur gear. Differently, the pressure for helical gear has a higher value at the dedendum of pinion where the film becomes thinner. In addition, speeding up the pinion would generally result in higher dynamic load and film pressure but thicker film thickness.
Silver patterning using an atomic force microscope tip and laser-induced chemical deposition from liquids
Authors: Jarro Carlos A. , Donev Eugenii U. , Pinar Menguç Mustafa , Todd Hastings Jeffrey
Published: October 2012

This article presents a new direct patterning technique in which laser photoreduction of silver from a liquid is controlled by a scanning atomic force microscope tip. Contrary to expectations, the tip suppresses, rather than enhances, deposition on the underlying substrate, and this suppression persists in the absence of the tip. Experiments presented here exclude three potential mechanisms: purely mechanical material removal, depletion of the silver precursor, and preferential photoreduction on existing deposits. These results represent a first step toward direct, negative tone, tip-based patterning of functional materials.
Combining dynamic and static depth profiling in low energy ion scattering
Authors: ter Veen Rik , Fartmann Michael , Kersting Reinhard , Hagenhoff Birgit
Published: October 2012

The advantages of combining dynamic and static depth profiling in low energy ion scattering are demonstrated for an Si/SiOx/W/Al2O3 ALD stack. Dynamic depth profiling can be used to calibrate static depth profiling. Energy losses of 152 and 215 eV/nm were found for 3 keV 4He+ and 5 keV 4He+ primary ions, respectively, for the experimental configuration used. This is in good agreement with the values used in the field. Static depth profiling can be used to recognize sputter artifacts in dynamic depth profiles.
Measurement and correction of leaf open times in helical tomotherapy
Authors: Sevillano David , Mínguez Cristina , Sánchez Alicia , Sánchez‐Reyes Alberto
Published: October 2012

Purpose:

The binary multileaf collimator (MLC) is one of the most important components in helical tomotherapy (HT), as it modulates the dose delivered to the patient. However, methods to ensure MLC quality in HT treatments are lacking. The authors obtained data on the performance of the MLC in treatments administered in their department in order to assess possible delivery errors due to the MLC. Correction methods based on their data are proposed.

Methods:

Twenty sinograms from treatments delivered using both of the authors HT systems were measured and analyzed by recording the fluence collected by the imaging detector. Planned and actual sinograms were compared using distributions of leaf open time (LOT) errors, as well as differences in fluence reconstructed at each of the 51 projections into which the treatment planning system divides each rotation for optimization purposes. They proposed and applied a method based on individual leaf error correction and the increase in projection time to prevent latency effects when LOT is close to projection time. In order to analyze the dosimetric impact of the corrections, inphantom measurements were made for four corrected treatments.

Results:

The LOTs measured were consistent with those planned. Most of the mean errors in LOT distributions were within 1 ms with standard deviations of over 4 ms. Reconstructed fluences showed good results, with over 90% of points passing the 3% criterion, except in treatments with a short mean LOT, where the percentage of passing points was as low as 66%. Individual leaf errors were as long as 4 ms in some cases. Corrected sinograms improved error distribution, with standard deviations of over 3 ms and increased percentages of points passing 3% in the fluence per angle analysis, especially in treatments with a short mean LOT and those that were more subject to latency effects. The minimum percentage of points within 3% increased to 86%. In‐phantom measurements of the corrected treatments showed that, while treatments affected by latency effects were improved, those affected by individual leaf errors were not.

Conclusions:

Measurement of MLC performance in real treatments provides the authors with a valuable tool for ensuring the quality of HT delivery. The LOTs of MLC are very accurate in most cases. Sources of error were found and correction methods proposed and applied. The corrections decreased the amount of LOT errors. The dosimetric impact of these corrections should be evaluated more thoroughly using 3D dose distribution analysis.
Genome Sequence of Aureobasidium pullulans AY4, an Emerging Opportunistic Fungal Pathogen with Diverse Biotechnological Potential
Authors: Chan Giek Far , Bamadhaj Hasima Mustafa , Gan Han Ming , Rashid Noor Aini Abdul
Published: October 2012

Aureobasidium pullulans
AY4 is an opportunistic pathogen that was isolated from the skin of an immunocompromised patient. We present here the draft genome of strain AY4, which reveals an abundance of genes relevant to bioindustrial applications, including biocontrol and biodegradation. Putative genes responsible for the pathogenicity of strain AY4 were also identified.
Genome Sequence of the Psychrophilic Deep-Sea Bacterium Moritella marina MP-1 (ATCC 15381)
Authors: Kautharapu Kumar B. , Jarboe Laura R.
Published: October 2012

Moritella marina
MP-1 is a bacterial species known for its production of docosahexaenoic acid. We present the draft genome sequence of the type strain
Moritella marina
MP-1 (ATCC 15381), having 4,636,778 bp with a G+C content of 40.5% and consisting of 83 contigs.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Variant of Campylobacter jejuni NCTC 11168
Authors: Revez Joana , Schott Thomas , Rossi Mirko , Hänninen Marja-Liisa
Published: October 2012

Campylobacter jejuni
NCTC 11168 is widely used in research, but at least two variants have been reported. The available genome was sequenced from a variant which later showed a different phenotype and gene expression profile. Here we present the complete genome sequence of a second variant of
C. jejuni
NCTC 11168.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Volatile Organic Compound-Producing Antarctic Bacterium Arthrobacter sp. Strain TB23, Able To Inhibit Cystic Fibrosis Pathogens Belonging to the Burkholderia cepacia Complex
Authors: Fondi Marco , Orlandini Valerio , Maida Isabel , Perrin Elena , Papaleo Maria Cristiana , Emiliani Giovanni , de Pascale Donatella , Parrilli Ermenegilda , Tutino Maria Luisa , Michaud Luigi , Lo Giudice Angelina , Fani Renato
Published: October 2012

Arthrobacter
sp. strain TB23 was isolated from the Antarctic sponge
Lissodendoryx nobilis
. This bacterium is able to produce antimicrobial compounds and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that inhibit the growth of other Antarctic bacteria and of cystic fibrosis opportunistic pathogens, respectively. Here we report the draft genome sequence of
Arthrobacter
sp. TB23.
Complete Genome Sequence of Mycobacterium vaccae Type Strain ATCC 25954
Authors: Ho Yung S. , Adroub Sabir A. , Abadi Maram , Al Alwan Bader , Alkhateeb Reham , Gao Ge , Ragab Alaa , Ali Shahjahan , van Soolingen Dick , Bitter Wilbert , Pain Arnab , Abdallah Abdallah M.
Published: October 2012

Mycobacterium vaccae
is a rapidly growing, nontuberculous
Mycobacterium
species that is generally not considered a human pathogen and is of major pharmaceutical interest as an immunotherapeutic agent. We report here the annotated genome sequence of the
M. vaccae
type strain, ATCC 25954.
Genome Sequences of Two Freshwater Betaproteobacterial Isolates, Limnohabitans Species Strains Rim28 and Rim47, Indicate Their Capabilities as Both Photoautotrophs and Ammonia Oxidizers
Authors: Zeng Yonghui , Kasalický Vojtěch , Šimek Karel , Koblížek Michal
Published: October 2012

Betaproteobacterial genus
Limnohabitans
represents an important part of freshwater bacterioplankton. Here, we report genome sequences of two
Limnohabitans
isolates, Rim28 and Rim47. They contain a complete photosynthesis gene cluster, RuBisCO, CO dehydrogenase, ammonia monooxygenase, and sulfur-oxidizing genes, which indicates a great metabolic versatility of the
Limnohabitans
species.
Draft Genome Sequence of Paenibacillus sp. Strain OSY-SE, a Bacterium Producing the Novel Broad-Spectrum Lipopeptide Antibiotic Paenibacterin
Authors: Huang En , Guo Yaoqi , Yousef Ahmed E.
Published: October 2012

A strain of
Paenibacillus
sp., OSY-SE, was isolated from soil and found to produce a novel lipopeptide antibiotic. The antibiotic, paenibacterin, is active against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial pathogens. Paenibacterin is biosynthesized by a nonribosomal peptide synthetase pathway. Here we report the draft genome sequence of
Paenibacillus
sp. OSY-SE.
Genome Sequence of Rhizobium sp. Strain CCGE510, a Symbiont Isolated from Nodules of the Endangered Wild Bean Phaseolus albescens
Authors: Servín-Garcidueñas Luis E. , Rogel Marco A. , Ormeño-Orrillo Ernesto , Delgado-Salinas Alfonso , Martínez-Romero Julio , Sánchez Federico , Martínez-Romero Esperanza
Published: October 2012

We present the genome sequence of
Rhizobium
sp. strain CCGE510, a nitrogen fixing bacterium taxonomically affiliated with the
R. leguminosarum
-
R. etli
group, isolated from wild
Phaseolus albescens
nodules grown in native pine forests in western Mexico.
P. albescens
is an endangered bean species phylogenetically related to
P. vulgaris
. In spite of the close host relatedness,
Rhizobium
sp. CCGE510 does not establish an efficient symbiosis with
P. vulgaris
. This is the first genome of a
Rhizobium
symbiont from a
Phaseolus
species other than
P. vulgaris
, and it will provide valuable new insights about symbiont-host specificity.
Complete Genome Sequence of Klebsiella pneumoniae 1084, a Hypermucoviscosity-Negative K1 Clinical Strain
Authors: Lin Ann-Chi , Liao Tsai-Lien , Lin Yi-Chun , Lai Yi-Chyi , Lu Min-Chi , Chen Ying-Tsong
Published: October 2012

We report the complete genome sequence of
Klebsiella pneumoniae
1084, a hypermucoviscosity-negative K1 clinical strain. Sequencing and annotation revealed a 5,386,705-bp circular chromosome (57.4% G+C content), which contains 4,962 protein-coding genes, 80 tRNA genes, and 25 rRNA genes.
Draft Genome Sequence of Pontibacter sp. nov. BAB1700, a Halotolerant, Industrially Important Bacterium
Authors: Joshi M. N. , Sharma A. C. , Pandya R. V. , Patel R. P. , Saiyed Z. M. , Saxena A. K. , Bagatharia S. B.
Published: October 2012

Pontibacter
sp. nov. BAB1700 is a halotolerant, Gram-negative, rod-shaped, pink-pigmented, menaquinone-7-producing bacterium isolated from sediments of a drilling well. The draft genome sequence of the strain, consisting of one chromosome of 4.5 Mb, revealed vital gene clusters involved in vitamin biosynthesis and resistance against various metals and antibiotics.
Complete Genome Sequence of Brucella melitensis Biovar 3 Strain NI, Isolated from an Aborted Bovine Fetus
Authors: Liu Wenxiao , Jing Zhigang , Ou Qixing , Cui Buyun , He Yongqun , Wu Qingmin
Published: October 2012

From an aborted bovine fetus in China, a bacterial strain named NI was isolated and identified as
Brucella melitensis
by a PCR assay. Strain NI was further characterized as
B. melitensis
biovar 3 using biochemical assays. Here we report the complete genome sequence of strain NI.
Complete Genome Sequence of Bartonella quintana, a Bacterium Isolated from Rhesus Macaques
Authors: Li Hao , Tong Yigang , Huang Yong , Bai Jieying , Yang Hong , Liu Wei , Cao Wuchun
Published: October 2012

Bartonella quintana
is a re-emerging pathogen and the causative agent of a broad spectrum of disease manifestations in humans. The present study reports the complete genome of
B. quintana
strain RM_11, which was isolated from rhesus macaques.
Draft Genome Sequence of Alicyclobacillus hesperidum Strain URH17-3-68
Authors: Wang Ping , Li Li , Chen Xiaoyun , Jiang Nan , Liu Guiyou , Chen Lawrence , Xu Jianyong , Song Hui , Chen Zugen , Ma Yanhe
Published: October 2012

Alicyclobacillus hesperidum
is a thermoacidophilic bacterium. We isolated strain URH17-3-68 from hot spring sludge in Tengchong, Yunnan province, China. Its extracellular products include heat- and acid-stable enzymes which are important for industrial applications. Here we report the draft genome of this strain.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Xylan-Degrading Marine Bacterium Strain S124, Representing a Novel Species of the Genus Oceanicola
Authors: Kwon Young-Kyung , Kim Jennifer Jooyoun , Kim Ji Hyung , Jeon Seon-Mi , Ye Bo-Ram , Jang Jiyi , Heo Soo-Jin , Park Se Chang , Kang Do-Hyung , Oh Chulhong
Published: October 2012

We isolated a xylan-degrading bacterium from seawater of Micronesia and identified it as
Oceanicola
sp. strain S124. We sequenced the
Oceanicola
sp. S124 genome using GSFLX 454 pyrosequencing and predicted 4,433 open reading frames (ORFs) including putative saccharification and phage-related genes.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Sulfobacillus thermosulfidooxidans Cutipay Strain, an Indigenous Bacterium Isolated from a Naturally Extreme Mining Environment in Northern Chile
Authors: Travisany Dante , Di Genova Alex , Sepúlveda Andrea , Bobadilla-Fazzini Roberto A. , Parada Pilar , Maass Alejandro
Published: October 2012

Sulfobacillus thermosulfidooxidans
strain Cutipay is a mixotrophic, acidophilic, moderately thermophilic bacterium isolated from mining environments of the north of Chile, making it an interesting subject for studying the bioleaching of copper. We introduce the draft genome sequence and annotation of this strain, which provide insights into its mechanisms for heavy metal resistance.
Complete Genome Sequence of Lactobacillus helveticus R0052, a Commercial Probiotic Strain
Authors: Tompkins Thomas A. , Barreau Guillaume , Broadbent Jeffery R.
Published: October 2012

Lactobacillus helveticus
R0052 is a commercially available strain that is widely used in probiotic preparations. The genome sequence consisted of 2,129,425 bases. Comparative analysis showed that it was unique among
L. helveticus
strains in that it contained genes encoding mucus-binding proteins similar to those found in
Lactobacillus acidophilus
.
Draft Genome Sequence of Bacillus oceanisediminis 2691
Authors: Lee Yong-Jik , Lee Sang-Jae , Jeong Haeyoung , Kim Hyun Ju , Ryu Naeun , Kim Byoung-Chan , Lee Han-Seung , Lee Dong-Woo , Lee Sang Jun
Published: October 2012

Bacillus oceanisediminis
2691 is an aerobic, Gram-positive, spore-forming, and moderately halophilic bacterium that was isolated from marine sediment of the Yellow Sea coast of South Korea. Here, we report the draft genome sequence of
B. oceanisediminis
2691 that may have an important role in the bioremediation of marine sediment.
Draft Genome Sequence of Achromobacter piechaudii Strain HLE
Authors: Trimble William L. , Phung Le T. , Meyer Folker , Silver Simon , Gilbert Jack A.
Published: October 2012

Achromobacter piechaudii
strain HLE is a betaproteobacterium (previously known as
Alcaligenes faecalis
) that was an early isolate with arsenite oxidase activity. This draft genome of 6.89 Mb is the second available genome for this species in the opportunistic pathogen
Alcaligenaceae
family.
Draft Genome Sequence of Bacillus anthracis BF-1, Isolated from Bavarian Cattle
Authors: Antwerpen Markus , Proença Diogo Neves , Rückert Christian , Licht Katharina , Kalinowski Jörn , Hanczaruk Matthias , Tiemann Carsten , Grass Gregor
Published: October 2012

Bacillus anthracis
BF-1 was isolated from a cow in Bavaria (Germany) that had succumbed to anthrax. Here, we report the draft genome sequence of this strain, which belongs to the European B2 subclade of
B. anthracis
. The closest phylogenetic neighbor of strain BF-1 is a strain isolated from cattle in France.
The Effectiveness of Acupuncture for Plantar Heel Pain: A Systematic Review
Authors: Clark Richard James , Tighe Maria
Published: October 2012

Introduction

Plantar heel pain (PHP) is a common complaint, yet there are no definitive guidelines for its treatment. Acupuncture is increasingly used by podiatrists, and there is a need for evidence to validate this practice. It is acknowledged that PHP and acupuncture are both complex phenomena.

Method

A systematic review (PROSPERO no. CRD42012001881) of the effectiveness of acupuncture for PHP is presented. Quality of the studies was assessed by independent assessors with reference to Quality Index (QI), ‘STandards for Reporting Interventions in Controlled Trials of Acupuncture’ (STRICTA) and ‘CONsolidated Standards Of Reporting Trials’ (CONSORT) criteria. Pooling of data, or even close comparison of studies, was not performed.

Results

Five randomised controlled trials and three non-randomised comparative studies were included. High quality studies report significant benefits. In one, acupuncture was associated with significant improvement in pain and function when combined with standard treatment (including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). In another, acupuncture point PC7 improved pain and pressure pain threshold significantly more than LI4. Other papers were of lower quality but suggest benefits from other acupuncture approaches.

Conclusions

There is evidence supporting the effectiveness of acupuncture for PHP. This is comparable to the evidence available for conventionally used interventions, such as stretching, night splints or dexamethasone. Therefore acupuncture should be considered in recommendations for the management of patients with PHP. Future research should recognise the complexity of PHP, of acupuncture and of the relationship between them, to explore the optimum use and integration of this approach. There is a need for more uniformity in carrying out and reporting such work and the use of STRICTA is recommended.
Translation and testing of the Risk Assessment Pressure Ulcer Sore scale used among residents in Norwegian nursing homes
Authors: Fossum Mariann , Söderhamn Olle , Cliffordson Christina , Söderhamn Ulrika
Published: October 2012

Objective

The purpose of this study was to translate and test the psychometric properties of the Norwegian-language version of the Risk Assessment Pressure Sore (RAPS) scale.

Background

Risk assessment scales for pressure ulcer (PU) prevention have become an aspect of quality improvement in healthcare, but their effectiveness depends on the reliability and validity of the scale.

Methods

 A convenience sample of 481 residents in 15 nursing homes in rural Norway was included between January and June 2007. The English-language version of the RAPS scale was translated into Norwegian, and this scale was used to collect the data, including a skin examination. The number of PUs and grades were documented. Reliability was assessed in a small group of 26 residents and construct validity in the total study group.

Results

Equivalence between two assessments regarding total scores of the RAPS scale was reflected in an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.95. Construct validity was supported, and the RAPS scale could define groups with expected low and high scores. Further evidence of construct validity was shown in a confirmatory factor analysis.

Conclusion

The Norwegian version of the RAPS scale has shown sufficient psychometric properties to be considered a reliable and valid scale for identifying risk of PUs among nursing home residents. However, further testing is needed.
Consensus diagnostic criteria for fetal alcohol spectrum disorders in Australia: a modified Delphi study
Authors: Watkins Rochelle E , Elliott Elizabeth J , Mutch Raewyn C , Payne Janet M , Jones Heather M , Latimer Jane , Russell Elizabeth , Fitzpatrick James P , Hayes Lorian , Burns Lucinda , Halliday Jane , D'Antoine Heather A , Wilkins Amanda , Peadon Elizabeth , Miers Sue , Carter Maureen , O'Leary Colleen M , McKenzie Anne , Bower Carol
Published: October 2012

Objective

To evaluate health professionals' agreement with components of published diagnostic criteria for fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) in order to guide the development of standard diagnostic guidelines for Australia.

Design

A modified Delphi process was used to assess agreement among health professionals with expertise or experience in FASD screening or diagnosis. An online survey, which included 36 Likert statements on diagnostic methods, was administered over two survey rounds. For fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), health professionals were presented with concepts from the Institute of Medicine (IOM), University of Washington (UW), Centers for Disease Control (CDC), revised IOM and Canadian diagnostic criteria. For partial FAS (PFAS), alcohol-related neurodevelopmental disorder (ARND), and alcohol-related birth defects (ARBD), concepts based on the IOM and the Canadian diagnostic criteria were compared.

Setting/participants

130 Australian and 9 international health professionals.

Results

Of 139 health professionals invited to complete the survey, 103 (74.1%) responded, and 74 (53.2%) completed one or more questions on diagnostic criteria. We found consensus agreement among participants on the diagnostic criteria for FAS, with the UW criteria most commonly endorsed when compared with all other published criteria for FAS. When health professionals were presented with concepts based on the Canadian and IOM diagnostic criteria, we found consensus agreement but no clear preference for either the Canadian or IOM criteria for the diagnosis of PFAS, and no consensus agreement on diagnostic criteria for ARND. We also found no consensus on the IOM diagnostic criteria for ARBD.

Conclusions

Participants indicated clear support for use of the UW diagnostic criteria for FAS in Australia. These findings should be used to develop guidelines to facilitate improved awareness of, and address identified gaps in the infrastructure for, FASD diagnosis in Australia.
The collaborative communication model for patient handover at the interface between high-acuity and low-acuity care
Authors: Toccafondi Giulio , Albolino Sara , Tartaglia Riccardo , Guidi Stefano , Molisso Antonio , Venneri Francesco , Peris Adriano , Pieralli Filippo , Magnelli Elisabetta , Librenti Marco , Morelli Marco , Barach Paul
Published: October 2012

Background

Cross-unit handovers transfer responsibility for the patient among healthcare teams in different clinical units, with missed information, potentially placing patients at risk for adverse events.

Objectives

We analysed the communications between high-acuity and low-acuity units, their content and social context, and we explored whether common conceptual ground reduced potential threats to patient safety posed by current handover practices.

Methods

We monitored the communication of five content items using handover probes for 22 patient transitions of care between high-acuity ‘sender units’ and low-acuity ‘recipient units’. Data were analysed and discussed in focus groups with healthcare professionals to acquire insights into the characteristics of the common conceptual ground.

Results

High-acuity and low-acuity units agreed about the presence of alert signs in the discharge form in 40% of the cases. The focus groups identified prehandover practices, particularly for anticipatory guidance that relied extensively on verbal phone interactions that commonly did not involve all members of the healthcare team, particularly nursing. Accessibility of information in the medical records reported by the recipient units was significantly lower than reported by sender units. Common ground to enable interpretation of the complete handover content items existed only among selected members of the healthcare team.

Conclusions

The limited common ground reduced the likelihood of correct interpretation of important handover information, which may contribute to adverse events. Collaborative design and use of a shared set of handover content items may assist in creating common ground to enable clinical teams to communicate effectively to help increase the reliability and safety of cross-unit handovers.
Medication discrepancies in integrated electronic health records
Authors: Linsky Amy , Simon Steven R
Published: October 2012

Introduction

Medication discrepancies are associated with adverse drug events. Electronic health records (EHRs) may reduce discrepancies, especially if integrated with pharmacy dispensing. We determined the prevalence of discrepancies within a national healthcare system with EHR–pharmacy linkage to characterise the medications involved and to identify factors associated with discrepancies.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of ambulatory care patients at Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, April 2010–July 2011. The primary outcome was the presence of any medication discrepancy or specific types of discrepancies: commission—present in the record but not taken by patient; omission—not present in the record; duplication—present more than once; or alteration in dose or frequency—present but taken differently than documented.

Results

Sixty-two patients (60%) had at least one medication discrepancy. Prevalence of commissions, omissions, duplications and alterations were 36%, 27%, 11% and 19%, respectively. The involved medications differed by type of discrepancy, but non-opioid analgesics and herbal therapies were common among commissions and omissions. In adjusted analyses, an increasing number of medications was associated with more commissions (OR 1.2; 95% CI 1.1 to 1.3) and duplications (OR 1.2; 95% CI 1.1 to 1.4) and fewer omissions (OR 0.9; 95% CI 0.8 to 1.0).

Discussion

In a system with a well established EHR linked to pharmacy dispensing, medication discrepancies occurred in 60% of ambulatory clinic patients. Patients with a greater number of medications were more likely to have errors of commission and duplication, but less likely to have errors of omission. Our findings highlight that relying on EHRs alone will not ensure an accurate medication list and stress the need to review medication taking thoroughly with patients to capitalise on the full potential of EHRs.