bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strong shared representations promote schema-consistent memory errors in groups
Authors: Betts Kevin R. , Hinsz Verlin B.
Published: May 2013

We created the conditions necessary for cognitive representations to develop by presenting individuals and groups with word lists consisting of items high and low in associative strength. Strong cognitive representations were found to promote more schema-consistent memory errors than weaker representations. Moreover, strong cognitive representations resulted in more of these errors for groups than individuals. Weak cognitive representations, in contrast, resulted in fewer of these errors for groups than individuals. We find that variation in the frequency of memory errors between individuals and groups is influenced by the strength of shared representations that interfere with the ability of groups to correct schema-consistent memory errors among their members. Further analyses suggest that strong shared representations also aid correct recall relative to weak shared representations. We conclude that despite general advantages of collaboration, select circumstances that allow for strong shared representations may promote schema-consistent memory errors in groups.
Cutting-edge technology for public health workforce training in comparative effectiveness research
Authors: Salinas-Miranda Abraham A , Nash Michelle C , Salemi Jason L , Mbah Alfred K , Salihu Hamisu M
Published: May 2013

A critical mass of public health practitioners with expertise in analytic techniques and best practices in comparative effectiveness research is needed to fuel informed decisions and improve the quality of health care. The purpose of this case study is to describe the development and formative evaluation of a technology-enhanced comparative effectiveness research learning curriculum and to assess its potential utility to improve core comparative effectiveness research competencies among the public health workforce. Selected public health experts formed a multidisciplinary research collaborative and participated in the development and evaluation of a blended 15-week comprehensive e-comparative effectiveness research training program, which incorporated an array of health informatics technologies. Results indicate that research-based organizations can use a systematic, flexible, and rapid means of instructing their workforce using technology-enhanced authoring tools, learning management systems, survey research software, online communities of practice, and mobile communication for effective and creative comparative effectiveness research training of the public health workforce.
Aggregate health data in the United States: Steps toward a public good
Authors: Rolnick Joshua
Published: May 2013

The rise of electronic medical records promotes the collection and aggregation of medical data. These data have tremendous potential utility for health policy and public health; yet there are gaps in the scholarly literature. No articles in the medical or legal literature have mapped the “information flows” from patient to database, and commentary has focused more on privacy than on data’s social value and incentives for production. Utilizing short case studies of data flows, I show that ample data exist, much of them are available online through government websites or hospital trade associations. However, available information comes from billing records rather than medical records. Turning to legal and policy recommendations for better provision, I note that weak intellectual property law has ironically led to stronger control over health data through private contracts and technological barriers, as these methods of protection lack any exceptions for noncommercial use. I conclude with a series of policy proposals to make data more available.
Moving Communities Toward Policy Change
Authors: Tong Elisa K. , Lew Rod
Published: May 2013

Policy change is recognized for underlying much of the success of tobacco control. However, there is little evidence and attention on how Asian American and Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AA and NHPI) communities may engage in policy change. Challenges for AA and NHPI communities include the racial/ethnic and geographic diversity, and tobacco data accurately representing the communities. Over the past decade, the Asian Pacific Partners for Empowerment, Advocacy and Leadership (APPEAL) has worked to develop and implement policy change for AA and NHPI communities. This article describes APPEAL’s 4-prong policy change model, in the context of its overall strategic framework for policy change with communities that accounts for varying levels of readiness and leadership capacity, and targets four different levels of policy change (community, mainstream institution, legislative, and corporate). The health promotion implication of this framework for tobacco control policy engagement is for improving understanding of effective pathways to policy change, promoting innovative methods for policy analysis, and translating them into effective implementation and sustainability of policy initiatives. The APPEAL strategic framework can transcend into other communities and health topics that ultimately may contribute to the elimination of health disparities.
Towards a Theory of Collective Emotions
Authors: von Scheve Christian , Ismer Sven
Published: May 2013

Collective emotions are at the heart of any society and become evident in gatherings, crowds, or responses to widely salient events. However, they remain poorly understood and conceptualized in scientific terms. Here, we provide first steps towards a theory of collective emotions. We first review accounts of the social and cultural embeddedness of emotion that contribute to understanding collective emotions from three broad perspectives: face-to-face encounters, culture and shared knowledge, and identification with a social collective. In discussing their strengths and shortcomings and highlighting areas of conceptual overlap, we translate these views into a number of bottom–up mechanisms that explain collective emotion elicitation on the levels of social cognition, expressive behavior, and social practices.
Compulsory Community Care in New Zealand Mental Health Legislation 1846-1992
Authors: O’Brien Anthony John , Kydd Robert
Published: May 2013

Community treatment orders are considered a new development in mental health care and are consistent with current New Zealand mental health policy of care in the community. However, since its first adoption in 1846, New Zealand mental health legislation has always made provision for compulsory mental health care out of hospital. Analysis of the text of each of the five iterations of mental health legislation shows that an initial (1846) provision for a friend or relative to take a committed patient into his or her care, as an alternative to committal to hospital, continued though various revisions until its current expression as a community treatment order. Using Rochefort’s model of change in mental health policy, we argue that a long static period until 1911 was followed by progressive change throughout the 20th century, although provision for compulsory out-of-hospital care has been continuous over the life of New Zealand’s legislation. In the late-20th century, compulsory mental health care is tied to medical treatment and mental health service surveillance of the patient’s social circumstances. We conclude with recommendations for how reformed legislation may contribute to future mental health policy by giving effect to agendas of positive rights and social inclusion.
Knowledge of and Interest in Using Preexposure Prophylaxis for HIV Prevention among Men Who Have Sex with Men in Thailand
Authors: Sineath R. Craig , Finneran Catherine , Sullivan Patrick , Sanchez Travis , Smith Dawn K. , Griensven Frits van , Wimonsate Wipas , Stephenson Rob
Published: May 2013

Little is known about HIV preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) acceptability among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Thailand. The authors recruited an online convenience sample of Thai MSM (n = 404) to assess the knowledge of and interest in PrEP. Less than 7% had heard of PrEP; however, 35% indicated interest in PrEP after an explanation of its possible efficacy. Regression modeling demonstrated that HIV knowledge and risk behavior, but not demographics, are significant predictors of PrEP interest. More information and education about PrEP is necessary and more research is needed to examine PrEP acceptability and to inform the message for PrEP uptake.
Significance of rs1271572 in the estrogen receptor beta gene promoter and its correlation with breast cancer in a southwestern Chinese population
Authors: Chen Li , Liang Yan , Qiu Juhui , Zhang Lingling , Chen Xianchun , Luo Xiangdong , Jiang Jun
Published: May 2013

Background

To characterize single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the promoter region of the estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) gene and to analyze the association of ERβ SNPs with susceptibility to breast cancer. Genotype frequencies of five SNPs (rs3020449, rs3020450, rs2987983, rs1271572 and rs1887994) in the promoter region of the ERβ gene in 873 women with breast cancer, 645 women with fibroadenoma and 700 healthy women were determined using an allele-specific tetra-primer polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed to evaluate the association of selected rs1271572 with prognosis in breast cancer. Electrophoretic mobility-shift assays were conducted to explore the binding of SNP rs1271572 containing probes to transcriptional factor Ying Yang 1 (YY1).

Results

Women with the homozygous TT genotype of rs1271572 had a significantly higher risk in developing breast cancer. Breast cancer patients with the TT genotype of rs1271572 had lower five-year survival rates than those with other genotypes and were more likely to suffer brain metastases. The rs1271572 G→T SNP abrogated YY1 binding and reduced the transcription activity of the promoter 0 N in the ERβ genein vitro.

Conclusions

TT genotype of rs1271572 is associated with increased risk for breast cancer in Chinese women and is associated with unfavored prognosis in Chinese breast cancer patients. TT genotype of rs1271572 inhibited expression of ERβ gene by down regulating transcriptional activity of the promoter 0 N in the ERβ gene. Our data revealed that the TT genotype of rs1271572 resulted in loss of the YY1 binding site and reduced the transcription activity of the promoter 0 N in the ERβ gene.
FishFace: interactive atlas of zebrafish craniofacial development at cellular resolution
Authors: Eames B Frank , DeLaurier April , Ullmann Bonnie , Huycke Tyler R , Nichols James T , Dowd John , McFadden Marcie , Sasaki Mark M , Kimmel Charles B
Published: May 2013

Background

The vertebrate craniofacial skeleton may exhibit anatomical complexity and diversity, but its genesis and evolution can be understood through careful dissection of developmental programs at cellular resolution. Resources are lacking that include introductory overviews of skeletal anatomy coupled with descriptions of craniofacial development at cellular resolution. In addition to providing analytical guidelines for other studies, such an atlas would suggest cellular mechanisms underlying development.

Description

We present the Fish Face Atlas, an online, 3D-interactive atlas of craniofacial development in the zebrafishDanio rerio. Alizarin red-stained skulls scanned by fluorescent optical projection tomography and segmented into individual elements provide a resource for understanding the 3D structure of the zebrafish craniofacial skeleton. These data provide the user an anatomical entry point to confocal images of Alizarin red-stained zebrafish with transgenically-labelled pharyngeal arch ectomesenchyme, chondrocytes, and osteoblasts, which illustrate the appearance, morphogenesis, and growth of the mandibular and hyoid cartilages and bones, as viewed in live, anesthetized zebrafish during embryonic and larval development. Confocal image stacks at high magnification during the same stages provide cellular detail and suggest developmental and evolutionary hypotheses.

Conclusion

The FishFace Atlas is a novel learning tool for understanding craniofacial skeletal development, and can serve as a reference for a variety of studies, including comparative and mutational analyses.
Phase-defined complete sequencing of the HLA genes by next-generation sequencing
Authors: Hosomichi Kazuyoshi , Jinam Timothy A , Mitsunaga Shigeki , Nakaoka Hirofumi , Inoue Ituro
Published: May 2013

Background

The human leukocyte antigen (HLA) region, the 3.8-Mb segment of the human genome at 6p21, has been associated with more than 100 different diseases, mostly autoimmune diseases. Due to the complex nature of HLA genes, there are difficulties in elucidating complete HLA gene sequences especially HLA gene haplotype structures by the conventional sequencing method. We propose a novel, accurate, and cost-effective method for generating phase-defined complete sequencing of HLA genes by using indexed multiplex next generation sequencing.

Results

A total of 33 HLA homozygous samples, 11 HLA heterozygous samples, and 3 parents-child families were subjected to phase-defined HLA gene sequencing. We applied long-range PCR to amplify six HLA genes (HLA-A, -C, -B, DRB1, -DQB1, and –DPB1) followed by transposase-based library construction and multiplex sequencing with the MiSeq sequencer. Paired-end reads (2 × 250 bp) derived from the sequencer were aligned to the six HLA gene segments of UCSC hg19 allowing at most 80 bases mismatch. For HLA homozygous samples, the six amplicons of an individual were pooled and simultaneously sequenced and mapped as an individual-tagging method. The paired-end reads were aligned to corresponding genes of UCSC hg19 and unambiguous, continuous sequences were obtained. For HLA heterozygous samples, each amplicon was separately sequenced and mapped as a gene-tagging method. After alignments, we detected informative paired-end reads harboring SNVs on both forward and reverse reads that are used to separate two chromosomes and to generate two phase-defined sequences in an individual. Consequently, we were able to determine the phase-defined HLA gene sequences from promoter to 3′-UTR and assign up to 8-digit HLA allele numbers, regardless of whether the alleles are rare or novel. Parent–child trio-based sequencing validated our sequencing and phasing methods.

Conclusions

Our protocol generated phased-defined sequences of the entire HLA genes, resulting in high resolution HLA typing and new allele detection.
Peritoneal dialysis peritonitis by anaerobic pathogens: a retrospective case series
Authors: Chao Chia-Ter , Lee Szu-Ying , Yang Wei-Shun , Chen Huei-Wen , Fang Cheng-Chung , Yen Chung-Jen , Chiang Chih-Kang , Hung Kuan-Yu , Huang Jenq-Wen
Published: May 2013

Background

Bacterial infections account for most peritoneal dialysis (PD)-associated peritonitis episodes. However, anaerobic PD peritonitis is extremely rare and intuitively associated with intra-abdominal lesions. In this study, we examined the clinical characteristics of PD patients who developed anaerobic peritonitis.

Methods

We retrospectively identified all anaerobic PD peritonitis episodes from a prospectively collected PD registry at a single center between 1990 and 2010. Only patients receiving more than 3 months of PD were enrolled. We analyzed clinical features as well as outcomes of anaerobic PD peritonitis patients.

Results

Among 6 patients, 10 episodes of PD-associated peritonitis were caused by anaerobic pathogens (1.59% of all peritonitis episodes during study the period), in which the cultures from 5 episodes had mixed growth. Bacteroides fragilis was the most common species identified (4 isolates). Only 3 episodes were associated with gastrointestinal lesions, and 4 episodes were related to a break in sterility during exchange procedures. All anaerobic pathogens were susceptible to clindamycin and metronidazole, but penicillin resistance was noted in 4 isolates. Ampicillin/sulbactam resistance was found in 2 isolates. In 5 episodes, a primary response was achieved using the first-generation cephalosporin and ceftazidime or aminoglycoside. In 3 episodes, the first-generation cephalosporin was replaced with aminoglycosides. Tenckhoff catheter removal was necessary in 2 episodes. Only one episode ended with mortality (due to a perforated bowel).

Conclusion

Anaerobic PD-associated peritonitis might be predominantly caused by contamination, rather than intra-abdominal events. Half of anaerobic PD-associated peritonitis episodes had polymicrobial growth. The overall outcome of anaerobic peritonitis is fair, with a high catheter survival rate.
A qualitative study of health information technology in the Canadian public health system
Authors: Zinszer Kate , Tamblyn Robyn , Bates David W , Buckeridge David L
Published: May 2013

Background

Although the adoption of health information technology (HIT) has advanced in Canada over the past decade, considerable challenges remain in supporting the development, broad adoption, and effective use of HIT in the public health system. Policy makers and practitioners have long recognized that improvements in HIT infrastructure are necessary to support effective and efficient public health practice. The objective of this study was to identify aspects of health information technology (HIT) policy related to public health in Canada that have succeeded, to identify remaining challenges, and to suggest future directions to improve the adoption and use of HIT in the public health system.

Methods

A qualitative case study was performed with 24 key stakeholders representing national and provincial organizations responsible for establishing policy and strategic direction for health information technology.

Results

Identified benefits of HIT in public health included improved communication among jurisdictions, increased awareness of the need for interoperable systems, and improvement in data standardization. Identified barriers included a lack of national vision and leadership, insufficient investment, and poor conceptualization of the priority areas for implementing HIT in public health.

Conclusions

The application of HIT in public health should focus on automating core processes and identifying innovative applications of HIT to advance public health outcomes. The Public Health Agency of Canada should develop the expertise to lead public health HIT policy and should establish a mechanism for coordinating public health stakeholder input on HIT policy.
Intimate partner violence is associated with HIV infection in women in Kenya: A cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Shi Chyun-Fung , Kouyoumdjian Fiona G , Dushoff Jonathan
Published: May 2013

Background

The relationship between intimate partner violence (IPV) and women’s risk of HIV infection has attracted much recent attention, with varying results in terms of whether there is an association and what the magnitude of association is. Understanding this relationship is important for HIV surveillance and intervention programs.

Methods

We analyzed data from the 2008-2009 Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) in Kenya, on 1,904 women aged 15-49. A generalized linear mixed model was adapted to explore the relationship between IPV and HIV prevalence, controlling for sociodemographic variables, and treating DHS survey clusters, province and ethnicity as random effects. We used principal components analysis (PCA) to calculate a single IPV score for each woman. The effect of HIV risk behaviours on the association between IPV and HIV was also assessed.

Results

Controlling for relevant sociodemographic factors, we found that HIV risk was significantly associated with IPV (P <0.01). After adjustment for risk factors as well as sociodemographic variables, the positive association between IPV and HIV remained significant (P=0.035). The estimated effect size of this model corresponds to an odds ratio of 1.55 for HIV infection comparing a woman who experienced no IPV and a woman at the 95th percentile for our IPV index.

Conclusion

This study provides further evidence that IPV and HIV are associated. In addition, we found that this association remains even when we controlled for several HIV risk factors. This implies that IPV can be used as a marker of potential HIV risk, and may be causally associated with HIV risk. Further, these results suggest that IPV monitoring and prevention may have a useful role in HIV prevention in Kenya. Further research, ideally based on longitudinal observations, is needed to disentangle these relationships.
Graves’ disease in monozygotic twins – a case report
Authors: Rüst Christoph A , Knechtle Beat , Rosemann Thomas
Published: May 2013

Background

Autoimmune thyroid diseases including Graves’ disease and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis are caused by immune response to self-thyroid antigens. The rare situation of hyperthyroidism with Graves’ disease in twins has been reported in a very few case reports in literature.

Case presentation

We present monozygotic female twins developing consecutively Graves’ disease within five years. One year before the diagnosis of Graves’ disease was established in the first twin, the mother developed a toxic thyroid nodule with hyperthyroidism leading to hemi thyroidectomy. Both the mother and the twins were cigarette smokers. The twins were treated with carbamizole and this therapy led to normalization of thyroid stimulating hormone and thyroxine.

Conclusion

This case report supports the hypothesis that a genetic factor as well as an environmental factor (cigarette smoking) might be of great importance in the aetiology of Graves’ disease.
G6PD deficiency in Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax malaria-infected Cambodian patients
Authors: Khim Nimol , Benedet Christophe , Kim Saorin , Kheng Sim , Siv Sovannaroth , Leang Rithea , Lek Soley , Muth Sinuon , Chea Nguon , Chuor Char Meng , Duong Socheat , Kerleguer Alexandra , Tor Pety , Chim Pheaktra , Canier Lydie , Witkowski Benoit , Taylor Walter RJ , Ménard Didier
Published: May 2013

Background

Glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PDd) rates are unknown in malaria-infected Cambodian patients. These data are key to a rational drug policy for malaria elimination ofPlasmodium falciparumandPlasmodium vivax.

Methods

From September 2010–2012, a two-year survey of G6PDd and haemoglobinopathies assessed by quantitative enzyme activity assay and haemoglobin electrophoresis, respectively, was conducted in malaria-infected patients presenting to 19 health centres throughout Cambodia.

Results

A total of 2,408 confirmed malaria patients of mean age 26.7 (range 2–81) years were recruited from mostly western Cambodia (n = 1,732, 71.9%); males outnumbered females by 3.9:1.Plasmodium falciparumwas present in 1,443 (59.9%) andP. vivaxin 965 (40.1%) patients. Mean G6PD activity was 11.6 (CI 95%: 11.4-11.8) U/g Hb, G6PDd was present in 13.9% of all patients (335/2,408) and severe G6PDd (including WHO Class I and II variants) was more common in western (158/1,732, 9.1%)versuseastern (21/414, 5.1%) Cambodia (P = 0.01). Of 997/2,408 (41.4%) had a haemoglobinopathy. Mean haemoglobin concentrations were inversely related to age: 8.1 g/dL < five years, 8.7 g/dL five to 14 years, and 10.4 g/dL >15 years (P <0.001).

Conclusions

G6PDd prevalence, anaemia and haemoglobinopathies were common in malaria-infected patients. The deployment of primaquine in Cambodia should be preceded by primaquine safety studies paralleled with evaluations of easy to use tests to detect G6PDd.
Dengue-specific subviral nanoparticles: design, creation and characterization
Authors: Khetarpal Niyati , Poddar Ankur , Nemani Satish K , Dhar Nisha , Patil Aravind , Negi Priyanka , Perween Ashiya , Viswanathan Ramaswamy , Lünsdorf Heinrich , Tyagi Poornima , Raut Rajendra , Arora Upasana , Jain Swatantra K , Rinas Ursula , Swaminathan Sathyamangalam , Khanna Navin
Published: May 2013

Background

Dengue is today the most significant of arboviral diseases. Novel tools are necessary to effectively address the problem of dengue. Virus-like particles (VLP) offer a versatile nanoscale platform for developing tools with potential biomedical applications. From the perspective of a potentially useful dengue-specific tool, the dengue virus envelope protein domain III (EDIII), endowed with serotype-specificity, host receptor recognition and the capacity to elicit virus-neutralizing antibodies, is an attractive candidate.

Methods

We have developed a strategy to co-express and co-purify Hepatitis B virus surface (S) antigen in two forms: independently and as a fusion with EDIII. We characterized these physically and functionally.

Results

The two forms of the S antigen associate into VLPs. The ability of these to display EDIII in a functionally accessible manner is dependent upon the relative levels of the two forms of the S antigen. Mosaic VLPs containing the fused and un-fused components in 1:4 ratio displayed maximal functional competence.

Conclusions

VLPs armed with EDIII may be potentially useful in diagnostic, therapeutic and prophylactic applications.
Entecavir plus adefovir rescue therapy for chronic hepatitis B patients after multiple treatment failures in real-life practice
Authors: Xu Xian-Hua , Li Gai-Li , Qin Yang , Li Qiang , He Fa-Qun , Li Jin-Ye , Pan Quan-Rong , Deng Jie-Yin
Published: May 2013

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Entecavir (ETV) plus adefovir (ADV) for chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients after multiple nucleos(t)ide analogue (NAs) failure treatment.

Methods

Hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-positive patients who had a suboptimal response or developed resistance to two or more previous NAs treatments were included, and all subjects were treated with ETV in combination with ADV for ≥ 24 months. Complete virologic response (CVR) was defined as an undetectability of serum hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA level during treatment. Safety assessment was based on the increasing of serum creatinine and creatine kinase levels.

Results

A total of 45 eligible patients were included. Twenty-five patients had been treated with lamivudine (LAM) or telbivudine (LdT) and developed genotypic resistance. Resistance to ADV was present in 18 patients and 4 patients had a suboptimal response to ETV. Two patients had a resistance to both LAM and ADV. The cumulative probabilities of CVR at 12 and 24 months of ETV + ADV treatment were 88.9% (40/45) and 97.8% (44/45), respectively. Although one patient failed to achieve CVR, its serum HBV DNA level decreased by 3.3 log copies/mL after 24 months of combination therapy. The cumulative probability of HBeAg seroconversion was 15.6% (7/45) and 26.7% (12/45) at 12 and 24 months of treatment, respectively. History of prior exposure to specific NAs did not make a difference to ETV + ADV treatment outcome. There were no significant adverse events related to ETV + ADV therapy observed in the study subjects.

Conclusion

ETV + ADV can be used as an effective and safe rescue therapy in patients after multiple NA therapy failures, especially in the areas where tenofovir is not yet available.
Conformational templating of α-synuclein aggregates in neuronal-glial cultures
Authors: Sacino Amanda N , Thomas Michael A , Ceballos-Diaz Carolina , Cruz Pedro E , Rosario Awilda M , Lewis Jada , Giasson Benoit I , Golde Todd E
Published: May 2013

Background

Genetic studies have established a causative role for α-synuclein (αS) in Parkinson’s disease (PD), and the presence of αS aggregates in the form of Lewy body (LB) and Lewy neurite (LN) protein inclusions are defining pathological features of PD. Recent data has established that extracellular αS aggregates can induce intracellular αS pathologies supporting the hypothesis that αS pathology can spread via a “prion-like” self-templating mechanism.

Results

Here we investigated the potential for conformational templating of αS intracellular aggregates by seeding using recombinant wild-type and PD-linked mutant (A53T and E46K) αS in primary mixed neuronal-glial cultures. We find that wild-type and A53T αS fibrils predominantly seed flame-like inclusions in both neurons and astrocytes of mixed primary cultures; whereas the structurally distinct E46K fibrils seed punctate, rounded inclusions. Notably, these differences in seeded inclusion formation in these cultures reflect differences in inclusion pathology seen in transgenic mice expressing the A53T or E46K αS mutants. We further show that the inclusion morphology is dictated primarily by the seed applied rather than the form of αS expressed. We also provide initial evidence that αS inclusion pathology can be passaged in primary astrocyte cultures.

Conclusion

These studies establish for the first time that αS aggregation in cultured cells can occur by a morphological self-templating mechanism.
Epidemiology and associations with climatic conditions of Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Chlamydophila pneumoniae infections among Chinese children hospitalized with acute respiratory infections
Authors: Chen Zhengrong , Ji Wei , Wang Yuqing , Yan Yongdong , Zhu Hong , Shao Xuejun , Xu Jun
Published: May 2013

Background

The incidence of severe acute respiratory tract infections in children caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae (syn. Schizoplasma pneumoniae) and Chlamydophila pneumoniae (formerly Chlamydia pneumoniae) varies greatly from year to year and place to place around the world. This study investigated the epidemiology of M. pneumoniae and C. pneumoniae infections among children hospitalized with acute respiratory infections in Suzhou, China in the year 2006, and associations between incidence rates and climatic conditions.

Methods

Nasopharyngeal aspirates obtained from 1598 patients (aged 26.4 ± 28.3 months; range, 1 month to 13 years) were analyzed with real-time PCR and ELISA. Meteorological data were obtained from the weather bureau.

Results

About 18.5% of patients were infected with M. pneumoniae and, C. pneumoniae, or both. Isolated M. pneumoniae infection was positively correlated with increasing age (χ2 = 34.76, P < 0.0001). Incidence of M. pneumoniae infection was seasonal with a peak in summer (P < 0.0001) and minimum in winter (P = 0.0001), whereas C. pneumoniae infection was low only in autumn (P = 0.02). Monthly mean temperature was strongly correlated with the incidence of M. pneumoniae infection (r = 0.825, P = 0.001).

Conclusions

M. pneumoniae and C. pneumoniae are important infectious agents in hospitalized children with acute respiratory tract infections. M. pneumoniae infection showed a strong direct correlation with environmental temperature.
Amphiregulin mediates progesterone-induced mammary ductal development during puberty
Authors: Aupperlee Mark D , Leipprandt Jeffrey R , Bennett Jessica M , Schwartz Richard C , Haslam Sandra Z
Published: May 2013

Introduction

Puberty is a period of increased susceptibility to factors that cause increased breast cancer risk in adulthood. Mammary end buds (EBs) that develop during puberty are believed to be the targets of breast cancer initiation. Whereas the role of estrogen (E) has been extensively studied in pubertal mammary gland development, the role of progesterone (P) during puberty is less defined.

Methods

Pubertal and prepubertal ovariectomized mice were treated with vehicle control (C), E, P, or E+P. Mammary glands from these mice were analyzed for changes in morphology, proliferation, and expression of the downstream targets amphiregulin (AREG) and receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL).

Results

P, acting specifically through the progesterone receptor, induced increases in mammary gland proliferation and EB formation that were associated with increased AREG expression in ducts and EBs. E, acting specifically through the estrogen receptor, produced similar responses also mediated by AREG. Blocking AREG action by treatment with an EGFR inhibitor completely abrogated the effect of P on EB formation and proliferation and significantly reduced proliferation within ducts. P also increased expression of RANKL, primarily in ducts. Treatment with RANK-Fc, an inhibitor of RANKL, reduced P-dependent proliferation in ducts and to a lesser extent in EB, but did not cause EB regression.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate a novel P-specific effect through AREG to cause EB formation and proliferation in the developing mammary gland both before and during puberty. Thus, hormones and/or factors in addition to E that upregulate AREG can promote mammary gland development and have the potential to affect breast cancer risk associated with pubertal mammary gland development.
An exploration of social and economic outcome and associated health-related quality of life after critical illness in general intensive care unit survivors: a 12-month follow-up study
Authors: Griffiths John , Hatch Robert A , Bishop Judith , Morgan Kayleigh , Jenkinson Crispin , Cuthbertson Brian H , Brett Stephen J
Published: May 2013

Introduction

The socio-economic impact of critical illnesses on patients and their families in Europe has yet to be determined. The aim of this exploratory study was to estimate changes in family circumstances, social and economic stability, care requirements and access to health services for patients during their first 12 months after ICU discharge.

Methods

Multi-center questionnaire-based study of survivors of critical illness at 6 and 12 months after ICU discharge.

Results

Data for 293 consenting patients who spent greater than 48 hours in one of 22 UK ICUs were obtained at 6 and 12 months post-ICU discharge. There was little evidence of a change in accommodation or relationship status between pre-admission and 12 months following discharge from an ICU. A negative impact on family income was reported by 33% of all patients at 6 months and 28% at 12 months. There was nearly a 50% reduction in the number of patients who reported employment as their sole source of income at 12 months (19% to 11%) compared with pre-admission. One quarter of patients reported themselves in need of care assistance at 6 months and 22% at 12 months. The majority of care was provided by family members (80% and 78%, respectively), for half of whom there was a negative impact on employment. Amongst all patients receiving care, 26% reported requiring greater than 50 hours a week. Following discharge, 79% of patients reported attending their primary care physician and 44% had seen a community nurse. Mobility problems nearly doubled between pre-admission and 6 months (32% to 64%). Furthermore, 73% reported moderate or severe pain at 12 months and 44% remained significantly anxious or depressed.

Conclusions

Survivors of critical illness in the UK face a negative impact on employment and commonly have a care requirement after discharge from hospital. This has a corresponding negative impact on family income. The majority of the care required is provided by family members. This effect was apparent by 6 months and had not materially improved by 12 months. This exploratory study has identified the potential for a significant socio-economic burden following critical illness.
Genes and pathways underlying regional and cell type changes in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Miller Jeremy A , Woltjer Randall L , Goodenbour Jeff M , Horvath Steve , Geschwind Daniel H
Published: May 2013

Background

Transcriptional studies suggest Alzheimer's disease (AD) involves dysfunction of many cellular pathways, including synaptic transmission, cytoskeletal dynamics, energetics, and apoptosis. Despite known progression of AD pathologies, it is unclear how such striking regional vulnerability occurs, or which genes play causative roles in disease progression.

Methods

To address these issues, we performed a large-scale transcriptional analysis in the CA1 and relatively less vulnerable CA3 brain regions of individuals with advanced AD and nondemented controls. In our study, we assessed differential gene expression across region and disease status, compared our results to previous studies of similar design, and performed an unbiased co-expression analysis using weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). Several disease genes were identified and validated using qRT-PCR.

Results

We find disease signatures consistent with several previous microarray studies, then extend these results to show a relationship between disease status and brain region. Specifically, genes showing decreased expression with AD progression tend to show enrichment in CA3 (and vice versa), suggesting transcription levels may reflect a region's vulnerability to disease. Additionally, we find several candidate vulnerability (ABCA1, MT1H, PDK4, RHOBTB3) and protection (FAM13A1, LINGO2, UNC13C) genes based on expression patterns. Finally, we use a systems-biology approach based on WGCNA to uncover disease-relevant expression patterns for major cell types, including pathways consistent with a key role for early microglial activation in AD.

Conclusions

These results paint a picture of AD as a multifaceted disease involving slight transcriptional changes in many genes between regions, coupled with a systemic immune response, gliosis, and neurodegeneration. Despite this complexity, we find that a consistent picture of gene expression in AD is emerging.
The Telegraph: Radical Transmission in the 1790s
Authors: Fairclough Mary
Published: May 2013

This essay explores how the new technology of the optical telegraph provoked discussion of the possibilities of globalized communication in the 1790s. It focuses on the Telegraph, an anti-ministerial London newspaper. the Telegraph exploits its metaphorical connections with telegraphic technology, boasting of the speed and accuracy of its transmission of news. the Telegraph’s reception from its rival publications perpetuates this metaphorical connection: the ministerial press criticizes the speed of the paper’s transmission of news, as much as the principles it transmits. This essay analyzes the Telegraph’s connections with the London Corresponding Society, and explores the limitations of utopian models of telegraphic communication through the case of reformers exiled to Australia. Despite the practical limitations of telegraphic transmission, the Telegraph demonstrates the potentially transformative political effects of communicative media.
hsa-miR29b, a critical downstream target of non-canonical Wnt signaling, plays an anti-proliferative role in non-small cell lung cancer cells via targeting MDM2 expression
Authors: Avasarala Sreedevi , Van Scoyk Michelle , Wang Jianbin , Sechler Marybeth , Vandervest Katherine , Brzezinski Christine , Weekes Colin , Edwards Michael G. , Arcaroli John , Davis Richard E. , Bikkavilli Rama Kamesh , Winn Robert A.
Published: May 2013

In non-small cell lung cancer cell lines, activation of β-catenin independent signaling, via Wnt7a/Frizzled9 signaling, leads to reversal of cellular transformation, reduced anchorage-independent growth and induction of epithelial differentiation. miRNA expression profiling on a human lung adenocarcinoma cell line (A549) identified hsa-miR29b as an important downstream target of Wnt7a/Frizzled9 signaling. We show herein that hsa-miR29b expression is lost in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines and stimulation of β-catenin independent signaling, via Wnt7a expression, in NSCLC cell lines results in increased expression of hsa-miR29b. Surprisingly, we also identify specific regulation of hsa-miR29b by Wnt7a but not by Wnt3, a ligand for β-catenin-dependent signaling. Interestingly, knockdown of hsa-miR29b was enough to abrogate the tumor suppressive effects of Wnt7a/Frizzled9 signaling in NSCLC cells, suggesting that hsa-miR29b is an important mediator of β-catenin independent signaling. Finally, we show for the first time that hsa-miR29b plays an important role as a tumor suppressor in lung cancer by targeting murine double mutant 2 (MDM2), revealing novel nodes for Wnt7a/Frizzled9-mediated regulation of NSCLC cell proliferation.
Preparation and Valence Tautomeric Behavior of a Cobalt–Dioxolene Complex with a New TTF-functionalized Phenanthroline Ligand
Authors: Kanegawa Shinji , Kang Soonchul , Sato Osamu
Published: May 2013

In this study, a new tetrathiafulvalene-functionalized phenanthroline ligand (TTF-phen) and a mononuclear cobalt(II) complex with a redox active 3,6-di-tert-butylsemiquinonato (3,6-dtsq) ligand was synthesized. Magnetic measurements and IR spectroscopy suggested that the Co complex [Co(3,6-dtsq)2(TTF-phen)] exhibited thermally induced valence tautomerism in the temperature range 130–400 K. This complex is the first example of a valence tautomeric complex with a TTF-functionalized ligand.
Synthesis of Cu2(OH)PO4 Crystals with Various Morphologies and Their Catalytic Activity in Hydroxylation of Phenol
Authors: Fu Weiwei , Wang Runwei , Wu Lele , Wang Hongbin , Wang Xu , Wang Aijing , Zhang Zongtao , Qiu Shilun
Published: May 2013

Copper hydroxyphosphate (Cu2(OH)PO4) crystals with various morphologies have been successfully synthesized by a simple hydrothermal method, using different organic amines as the morphology-controlling agents. These Cu2(OH)PO4 crystals were used as catalysts for phenol hydroxylation by H2O2, and they showed distinct activities. The sheet morphology of Cu2(OH)PO4 crystals with a large percentage of reactive facets ({011} facets) exhibited enhanced catalytic activity in hydroxylation of phenol.
Site-selective Chemical Modification of Chymotrypsin Using a Peptidyl Diphenyl 1-Amino-2-phenylethylphosphonate Derivative
Authors: Ono Shin , Murai Junya , Nakai Takahiko , Kuroda Hirofumi , Horino Yoshikazu , Yoshimura Toshiaki , Oyama Hiroshi , Umezaki Masahito
Published: May 2013

For site-selective chemical modification in the vicinity of the active site of chymotrypsin (Csin), a peptide derivative 1 bearing a diphenyl 1-amino-2-phenylethylphosphonate moiety for targeting the active site and an active ester moiety for anchoring to lysine residues was designed and synthesized. Most of Csin was inactivated by 1 for 10 min and then reactivated by incubation with 2-pyridinaldoxime methiodide to give modified Csin. Mass spectrometric analysis of modified Csin showed that 1 was selectively anchored at Lys175.
Redox-active and Catalytic-efficient PAMAM Dendrimer Nanostructures for Sensing Low-abundance Protein with Signal Amplification
Authors: Pei Xiaomei , Xu Zonghui , Zhang Jiayu , Liu Zhe , Tian Jinnian
Published: May 2013

Functionalized poly(amido amine) (PAMAM) dendrimer nanostructures with redox activity and catalytic ability were for the first time utilized as detectable signal tags for highly efficiency electrochemical immunosensing of low-abundance protein (prostate-specific antigen, PSA, used as a model) on a disposable immunosensor, based on an in situ amplification strategy of bioelectrocatalytic reaction.
Verbal and novel multisensory associative learning in adults
Authors: Fifer Joanne M , Barutchu Ayla , Shivdasani Mohit N , Crewther Sheila G
Published: May 2013

To date, few studies have focused on the behavioural differences between the learning of multisensory auditory-visual and intra-modal associations. More specifically, the relative benefits of novel auditory-visual and verbal-visual associations for learning have not been directly compared. In Experiment 1, 20 adult volunteers completed three paired associate learning tasks: non-verbal novel auditory-visual (novel-AV), verbal-visual (verbal-AV; using pseudowords), and visual-visual (shape-VV). Participants were directed to make a motor response to matching novel and arbitrarily related stimulus pairs. Feedback was provided to facilitate trial and error learning. The results of Signal Detection Theory analyses suggested a multisensory enhancement of learning, with significantly higher discriminability measures (d-prime) in both the novel-AV and verbal-AV tasks than the shape-VV task. Motor reaction times were also significantly faster during the verbal-AV task than during the non-verbal learning tasks.  Experiment 2 (n = 12) used a forced-choice discrimination paradigm to assess whether a difference in unisensory stimulus discriminability could account for the learning trends in Experiment 1. Participants were significantly slower at discriminating unisensory pseudowords than the novel sounds and visual shapes, which was notable given that these stimuli produced superior learning. Together the findings suggest that verbal information has an added enhancing effect on multisensory associative learning in adults
Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Uses Operations Research Tools to Improve Surgeon Training
Authors: Turner Jonathan P. , Rodriguez Heron E. , DaRosa Debra A. , Daskin Mark S. , Hayman Amanda , Mehrotra Sanjay
Published: May 2013

Since the advent of work-hour limitations for surgical trainees, medical faculties have been concerned by inadequacies in two areas of resident training programs: operating room experience, which residents need to develop competence and confidence during surgery, and continuity of patient care, which engenders in residents a sense of responsibility and accountability. Previous operations research literature on resident scheduling models has discussed the development of mathematical programming models that assign residents to rotations or shifts; however, this literature has neglected the educational component. In this work, we frame the problem from an educational perspective, and we also describe the mathematical details behind several ideas and analyses in the medical literature. In addition, we present the patient assignment system, which we piloted at a large academic medical center, and discuss the relationship between the logistical and cultural challenges faced in medical training.
Optimal Sequential Exploration: Bandits, Clairvoyants, and Wildcats
Authors: Brown David B. , Smith James E.
Published: May 2013

This paper was motivated by the problem of developing an optimal policy for exploring an oil and gas field in the North Sea. Where should we drill first? Where do we drill next? In this and many other problems, we face a trade-off between earning (e.g., drilling immediately at the sites with maximal expected values) and learning (e.g., drilling at sites that provide valuable information) that may lead to greater earnings in the future. These “sequential exploration problems” resemble a multiarmed bandit problem, but probabilistic dependence plays a key role: outcomes at drilled sites reveal information about neighboring targets. Good exploration policies will take advantage of this information as it is revealed. We develop heuristic policies for sequential exploration problems and complement these heuristics with upper bounds on the performance of an optimal policy. We begin by grouping the targets into clusters of manageable size. The heuristics are derived from a model that treats these clusters as independent. The upper bounds are given by assuming each cluster has perfect information about the results from all other clusters. The analysis relies heavily on results for bandit superprocesses, a generalization of the multiarmed bandit problem. We evaluate the heuristics and bounds using Monte Carlo simulation and, in the North Sea example, we find that the heuristic policies are nearly optimal.
Hypothyroidism in dogs: pathophysiology, causes and clinical presentation
Authors: Parry Nicola MA
Published: May 2013

Hypothyroidism is the most common endocrine disorder in dogs. Primary hypothyroidism is most common, resulting from primary thyroid gland failure associated with either lymphocytic thyroiditis or idiopathic follicular atrophy, both of which occur at approximately equal frequency. Lymphocytic thyroiditis is considered an immune-mediated disease, whereas the pathogenesis of idiopathic follicular atrophy is unknown. Secondary hypothyroidism results from failure of the pituitary gland, and accounts for less than 5% of cases.
The diagnostic approach to pruritus in the dog
Authors: Barnard Natalie
Published: May 2013

Pruritus is a common presentation in first-opinion practice. It is very non-specific and can have many causes. This article discusses how to approach these cases in a logical manner to reach an accurate diagnosis. It also discusses the techniques that are commonly used in practice to investigate these cases without needing to send samples to external laboratories.