bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coevolution and Adaptation of Helicobacter pylori and the Case for ‘Functional Molecular Infection Epidemiology’
Authors: Ahmed Niyaz
Published: October 2011

Helicobacter pylori is a major human pathogen and its transmission and epidemiology have been extensively studied; it has been found that H. pylori’s prevalence and infection outcome is characterized by marked differences between the developing and the developed worlds. Recent data on genomic analyses and comparative core genome haplotyping have revealed that H. pylori has coevolved with its human host. While several studies advocate the protective effects of H. pylori colonization, it is prudent to systematically unleash the role of the strong virulence apparatus present within most H. pylori strains and to determine how to disarm them (or protect the host from the effects) if the intent is to allow it to remain a friendly organism or to use it as a vaccine delivery tool. While genotyping and phenotyping based on a few genetic markers have not provided much insight into such issues, use of replicate/chronological genomics (of virulent versus innocuous strains) coupled with functional screens in animal models is expected to be able to explain the acquisition and evolution of virulence factors of H. pylori and their discreet associations with serious clinical outcomes such as gastric cancer.
Risk Factors Associated with Carotid Artery Puncture following Landmark-Guided Internal Jugular Vein Cannulation Attempts
Authors: Jankovic Radmilo J. , Pavlovic Marija S. , Stojanovic Miodrag M. , Stosic Biljana S. , Milic Dragan J. , Ignjatovic Nebojsa S. , Bogicevic Angelina N. , Djordjevic Dragana R. , Savic Nenad N.
Published: October 2011

Objective: The relationship between certain risk factors and carotid artery puncture (CAP) as an early mechanical complication following internal jugular vein cannulation attempts (IJVCAs) was evaluated. Methods: In a retrospective 1-year observational single-center study, 86 IJVCAs conducted in the operating room by 4 competent anesthesiologists were evaluated. Age, gender, puncture side, number of cannulation attempts, circumstances of the procedure and incidence of CAP were obtained from medical records. Results: Of the 86 IJVCAs performed in patients aged 18–75 years, CAP occurred in 8 (9.3%): 5 (5.8%) in patients >65 years and 3 (3.5%) in patients <65 years of age. CAP was not associated with patient’s age (p = 0.11) and gender (p = 0.76). Multiple cannulation attempts (OR = 26.25; 95% CI = 4.52–152.51; p < 0.001) and placement of CVC under emergency conditions (OR = 14.84; 95% CI = 1.73–127.22; p = 0.014) increased the risk for CAP significantly. Also, the risk for CAP was higher when IJVCAs were performed before induction of general anesthesia (OR = 15.75; 95% CI = 1.83–135.1; p = 0.019). CAP was more likely to happen during left-sided than right-sided IJVCA (OR = 5.98; 95% CI = 1.29–27.59; p = 0.022). In addition, left-sided attempts considerably increased the risk for multiple cannulation attempts (OR = 2.782; 95% CI = 1.342–3.965; p < 0.01). Also, manifold cannulation attempts were more frequent if the IJVCA was performed before induction of anesthesia (OR = 4.219; CI = 1.579–11.271; p = 0.004). Conclusions: Our results strongly suggest that left-sided, multiple IJVCAs, performed under emergency conditions in conscious patients in the operating room, represent considerable risks for possible CAP.
Methods for the Rapid Screening of Group A Streptococci: Fluorescent in situ Hybridization versus Immunochromatography
Authors: Ding Jin-Ya , Wang Pei
Published: October 2011

Objective: To evaluate the accuracy of detection for screening group A streptococci (GAS) in pediatric clinics using fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) and immunochromatographic assay (ICA). Subjects and Methods: A group of 630 children who attended an outpatient clinic with signs and symptoms of acute upper respiratory tract infection were enrolled in this study. Specimens were collected using a double-swab collection device. Culturing methods were employed as the gold standard for comparison. Discordant results (i.e., positive results for FISH or ICA along with negative culture results) were further evaluated by using Todd-Hewitt broth (THB) with subsequent subculture for group A selective streptococcus agar. True-positive or false-positive of GAS was determined by the presence or absence of THB subculture. The diagnostic characteristics of FISH and ICA were assessed. Results: After discrepant analysis, the sensitivity, specificity and positive and negative predictive values were as follows: 89.2, 100, 100 and 95.4%, respectively, for FISH; corresponding values for ICA were 76.8, 98.6, 96.1 and 90.5%. Conclusion: The results demonstrated that the FISH assay had a higher detection sensitivity than ICA and is suitable for rapid and accurate GAS screening in pediatric clinics.
Caries Experience of Egyptian Adolescents: Does the Atraumatic Restorative Treatment Approach Offer a Solution?
Authors: Mobarak E.H. , Shabayek M.M. , Mulder J. , Reda A.H. , Frencken J.E.
Published: October 2011

Objectives: To assess the prevalence and severity of dental caries amongst Egyptian adolescents and the prevalence of carious lesions treatable through the atraumatic restorative treatment (ART) approach. Subjects and Methods: Using a convenient sample procedure, two secondary schools with a dental clinic were selected (967 students, average age: 13.7 ± 0.8 years, range: 12–15). Dental caries was diagnosed using the ART caries criteria, and plaque and calculus were assessed using the Green and Vermillion criteria amongst students grades 1–3 in the dental clinic by 3 calibrated examiners. The effect of the independent variables gender, age, tooth surface, jaw side (left or right) and type of jaw (mandible/maxilla) on dependent caries experience variables and D2 and D3 variables were tested using ANOVA. Results: The prevalence of dental caries including enamel lesion (D2MFT) amongst the 967 students was 51.4% and that of dental caries excluding enamel lesions (D3MFT) was 38.1%. The mean D2MFT and D3MFT scores were 1.5 and 0.8, respectively. The percentage of teeth filled and extracted was low. Female students had statistically significantly higher mean D3MFT/S and D2MFT/S scores than males (p < 0.0001). The prevalence of cavitated carious lesions (D3) treatable through ART was 48% for score 2 and 28% for score 3. Conclusions: Most of the cavitated lesions were found untreated despite the presence of a dental clinic and a dentist on the school premises. The majority of cavitated lesions without pulp involvement could be treated using the preventive and restorative components of the ART approach.
Diabetes Mellitus and Periodontal Health: Dentists’ Knowledge
Authors: Al-Khabbaz Areej K. , Al-Shammari Khalaf F.
Published: October 2011

Objectives: There is a strong body of evidence to support the relationship between periodontal diseases and diabetes mellitus. Unless dental practitioners are aware of this link, they cannot apply the information to their daily practice. The aim of the study was, therefore, to evaluate the knowledge of dental practitioners concerning the effect of diabetes on periodontal health. Subjects and Methods: This was a cross-sectional survey of randomly selected dental practitioners in Kuwait. Participants were asked about specific periodontal complications which they believed that patients diagnosed with diabetes were more susceptible to. Results: A total of 220 dental practitioners (133 general dental practitioners and 87 dental specialists) participated in the study. Less than 60% of all study participants reported that tooth loss due to periodontal reasons and periodontal abscess were frequent among diabetic patients. Dental specialists, especially periodontists, were significantly more aware of periodontal complications associated with diabetes. Factors significantly associated with having knowledge about the effect of diabetes on periodontal health in logistic regression analysis were dentists who were older and those who were specialists. Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that knowledge about the effects of diabetes on periodontal health among this sample of dental practitioners is generally low, and dentists may underestimate the outcomes of periodontal diseases in diabetic patients.
Effect of Oral Diseases on Mothers Giving Birth to Preterm Infants
Authors: Ryalat Soukaina , Sawair Faleh , Baqain Zaid , Barghout Nicola , Amin Wala , Badran Darwish , Badran Eman
Published: October 2011

Objectives: To determine the association between preterm birth (PTB) and maternal oral diseases during pregnancy. Subjects and Methods: This prospective study was performed by the neonatal and dental departments at Jordan University Hospital. The study included 100 women who gave birth to preterm singleton infants (born less than 37 complete weeks from last menstrual period) between January and July 2009. The control group included an equal number of women who delivered singleton, full-term infants on the same day or the day after the women in the study. The mothers’ demographic data were collected using a questionnaire, and an oral examination was conducted for each participant. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS for Windows release 16.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, Ill., USA). Factors related to PTB were studied in univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Results: Significantly higher DMFT (decayed, missing, filled teeth) index scores, Silness and Loe plaque index scores and Mühlemann tooth mobility index scores were associated with PTB. Mothers who did not have prepregnancy dental checkups had a significantly higher incidence of PTB. Fewer mothers in the PTB group visited dentists during their last pregnancy compared with controls. Conclusions: Oral health, especially healthy periodontium, is one reliable indicator for predicting a safe pregnancy outcome.
Basal Cortisol Levels and Correlates of Hypoadrenalism in Patients with Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection
Authors: Ekpebegh Chukwuma O. , Ogbera Anthonia O. , Longo-Mbenza Benjamin , Blanco-Blanco Ernesto , Awotedu Ajani , Oluboyo Patrick
Published: October 2011

Objective: To determine the frequency of occurrence of hypoadrenalism in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and document the clinical correlates of hypoadrenalism for this group of patients. Subjects and Methods: A descriptive study was carried out on 66 hospitalized HIV patients in a semi-urban setting of South Africa. Hypoadrenalism was diagnosed based on a basal cortisol level of less than 400 nmol/l with or without overt signs and symptoms. Clinical and biochemical parameters of hypoadrenalism were compared between subjects with suboptimal and normal cortisol levels. Statistical analysis included Student’s t test, χ2 and Pearson’s correlation coefficient tests. Results: The prevalence of hypoadrenalism was 27% with a high occurrence of contributory factors (cytomegalovirus infection in 100% and tuberculosis in 68.2% of the study subjects). Typical features of hypoadrenalism included: hyponatremia, 19.6%; hyperkalemia, 6.1%; mucosal hyperpigmentation, 12%, and loss of axillary hair, 15%. Comparison of clinical and biochemical parameters of hypoadrenalism did not show a correlation between CD4 count and cortisol levels (r = 0.1 and p = 0.3). Conclusion: The prevalence of hypoadrenalism in our patients with HIV infection was high and the clinical features were comparable in subjects with normal and subnormal cortisol levels.
Biopsied Jaw Lesions in Kuwait: A Six-Year Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Ali Mohammad A.
Published: October 2011

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the relative frequency of jaw lesions in Kuwait. Materials and Methods: Biopsy records and microscopic sections of all jaw biopsies seen in the Department of Histopathology at Amiri Hospital, Kuwait, during the period January 2004 to December 2009 were reviewed. The biopsies were divided into three major groups: developmental/inflammatory/reactive lesions (group 1), cystic lesions (group 2), and tumors and tumor-like lesions (group 3). Groups 2 and 3 were subdivided into odontogenic and nonodontogenic. Results: Three hundred and eighty-five cases were reviewed. Of the 385 cases, 115 (29.9%) were in group 1, 178 (46.2%) in group 2, and 92 (23.9%) in group 3. Overall, radicular cysts (n = 95; 24.7%) were the most common biopsied jaw lesions, followed by chronic apical periodontitis (n = 59; 15.3%), dentigerous cysts (n = 51; 13.2%), and keratocystic odontogenic tumors (n = 30; 7.8%). In group 1, chronic apical periodontitis was the most frequent lesion (n = 59; 51.3%). In group 2, odontogenic cysts (n = 166; 93.3%) were more frequent than nonodontogenic cysts (n = 12; 6.7%), and radicular cysts (n = 95; 53.4%) were the most frequent lesions in this group. Odontogenic tumors (n = 61; 66.3%) were more frequent than nonodontogenic tumors (n = 31; 33.7%) in group 3. Keratocystic odontogenic tumors (n = 30; 32.6%) were the most frequent type of lesion in this group, followed by ameloblastoma (n = 17; 18.5%). Only 3 malignant lesions were found in this study. Conclusions: Cystic and inflammatory lesions of the jaw are more common than tumors and tumor-like lesions of the jaw in Kuwait. The majority of inflammatory lesions that occurred in the jaw were related to periapical inflammation. Most cystic and tumorous jaw lesions were odontogenic in origin. Locally aggressive odontogenic tumors were relatively more common than nonaggressive ones. Malignant jaw tumors were relatively rare.
Necrotizing Fasciitis of the Breast: A Case Managed without Mastectomy
Authors: Soliman M.O. , Ayyash E.H. , Aldahham A. , Asfar S.
Published: October 2011

Objective: To report a rare presentation of necrotizing fasciitis (NF) in the breast and its management. Clinical Presentation and Intervention: A 61-year-old non-diabetic lady presented with a painful swollen right breast and yellowish discharge associated with fever for the last few days. Based on clinical examination and haematological parameters, a provisional diagnosis of breast abscess was made that later proved to be a case of NF. She was managed conservatively with repeated debridement followed by split-skin grafting with preservation of the breast. Conclusion: This case showed that NF of the breast can present as a simple breast abscess which was managed conservatively.
Epidural Analgesia and Vaginal Delivery in a Patient with Aortic Stenosis and Insufficiency
Authors: Erturk Engin , Bostan Habib , Eroglu Ahmet
Published: October 2011

Objective: To report a successful vaginal delivery using slow infusion of epidural analgesia in a patient with both severe aortic stenosis and insufficiency. Clinical Presentation and Intervention: A 26-year-old primigravid patient presented to our hospital for delivery. She had aortic stenosis and insufficiency due to rheumatic fever. Although the obstetrician recommended cesarean section owing to her cardiac status, she insisted upon vaginal delivery. We performed low-dose epidural analgesia with 10 ml of 0.125% ropivacaine and 20 µg fentanyl. She had spontaneous vaginal delivery without complication. Conclusion: This case showed that in spite of the cardiac pathology, vaginal delivery under low-dose slow infusion of epidural analgesia was successful and therefore may be a safe alternative to cesarean section for cardiac patients.
CYP2C19
But Not
PON1
Genetic Variants Influence Clopidogrel Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics, and Clinical Efficacy in Post–Myocardial Infarction Patients
Authors: Hulot Jean-Sébastien , Collet Jean-Philippe , Cayla Guillaume , Silvain Johanne , Allanic Frédérick , Bellemain-Appaix Anne , Scott Stuart A. , Montalescot Gilles
Published: October 2011

Background—

Reduced concentrations of clopidogrel active metabolite have been associated with diminished platelet inhibition and higher rates of adverse cardiovascular events. Paraoxonase-1 (PON1) has recently been proposed as a key enzyme for clopidogrel metabolic activation. We tested the effects of
PON1
polymorphisms on clopidogrel pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics and the occurrence of cardiovascular outcomes in young post–myocardial infarction (MI) patients treated with clopidogrel.

Methods and Results—

We genotyped
PON1
(Q192R and L55M) and
CYP2C19
variants in 106 patients enrolled in the PK/PD CLOVIS-2 trial. Patients were randomly exposed to a 300-mg or 900-mg clopidogrel loading dose in a crossover study design. Clopidogrel active metabolite isomer H4 (clopi-H4) and platelet function testing were measured serially after loading dose. There was no significant association between
PON1
Q192R or L55M and clopi-H4 formation or antiplatelet response to clopidogrel after either loading dose. Using multivariable linear regression analyses, the
CYP2C19*2
allele was the only predictor of clopi-H4 generation and platelet response irrespective of the platelet function assay.
CYP2C19
loss-of-function but not
PON1
variants were significantly associated with increased risk of major cardiovascular events (death, MI, and urgent coronary revascularization) occurring during long-term clopidogrel exposure in 371 young post-MI patients (age <45 years) enrolled in the AFIJI cohort (
CYP2C19
loss-of-function allele carrier versus noncarrier: hazard ratio, 2.26; 95% confidence interval, 1.15–4.41,
P
=0.02;
PON1
QQ192 versus QR/RR192: hazard ratio, 1.03; 95% confidence interval, 0.50–2.11,
P
=0.93;
PON1
LL55 versus LM/MM55: hazard ratio, 1.52; 95% confidence interval, 0.75–3.08,
P
=0.24).

Conclusions—

Our study does not confirm that
PON1
Q192R or L55M can influence clopidogrel pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics in post-MI patients.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00822666.
Using Spatial Context to Support Prospective Memory in Simulated Air Traffic Control
Authors: Loft Shayne , Finnerty Dannielle , Remington Roger W.
Published: October 2011

Objective: The aim was to examine whether prospective memory error and response costs to ongoing tasks in an air traffic control simulation could be reduced by providing spatial context.

Background: Prospective memory refers to remem-bering to perform an intended action at an appropriate point in the future. Failures of prospective memory can occur in air traffic control.

Method: For this study, three conditions of participants performed an air traffic control task that required them to accept and hand off aircraft and to prevent conflicts. The prospective memory task required participants to remember to press an alternative key rather than the routine key when accepting target aircraft. A red line separated the display into upper and lower regions. Participants in the context condition were told that the prospective memory instruction would apply only to aircraft approaching from one region (upper or lower). Those in the standard condition were not provided this information. In the control condition, participants did not have to perform the prospective memory task.

Results: In the context condition, participants made fewer prospective memory errors than did those in the standard condition and made faster acceptance decisions for aircraft approaching from irrelevant compared with relevant regions. Costs to hand-off decision time were also reduced in the context condition. Spatial context provided no benefit to conflict detection.

Conclusion: Participants could partially localize their allocation of attentional resources to the prospective memory task to relevant display regions.

Application: The findings are potentially applicable to air traffic control, whereby regularities in airspace structure and standard traffic flows allow controllers to anticipate the location of specific air traffic events.
Empowering caregivers: Impact analysis of FamilyLink Education Programme (FLEP) in Hong Kong, Taipei and Bangkok
Authors: Chiu Marcus Y. L. , Wei Grace F. W. , Lee Sing , Choovanichvong Somrak , Wong Frank H. T.
Published: October 2011

Background:

Education and support for caregivers is lacking in Asia and the peer-led FamilyLink Education Programme (FLEP) is one of the few provisions to address this service gap. This study aims to evaluate quantitatively its efficacy in reducing subjective burdens and empowering the participants.

Method:

One hundred and nine caregiver participants in three Asian cities were successfully surveyed at pre-intervention, post-intervention and six-month intervals with a number of standard inventories. Mixed analysis of variance (ANOVA) procedures showed significant programme impact over time intervals for all sites, and subsequently an empowerment measurement model was tested.

Results:

FLEP was found effective in reducing worry and displeasure, significantly improving intra-psychic strain, depression and all empowerment measures. The measurement model had an acceptable good fit. Baseline difference showed no interference with the programme efficacy.

Conclusions:

Apart from the initial support for FLEP, the current study also provides some hindsight on the empowerment practice in mental health for Asia, whose sociocultural political contexts are vastly different from that of the developed countries. It remains to be seen whether qualitative data or more stringent research design will yield consistent results and whether FLEP can also work in rural areas.
The Trial of Jesus
Authors: Matera Frank J.
Published: October 2011

Historically, Jesus stood trial only once, before Pilate. Persuaded by the chief priests that Jesus was a political threat, Pilate sentenced him to death for insurgency.
The Genesis Creation Narratives Revisited
Authors: Santmire H Pall
Published: October 2011

The creation narratives of Genesis 1 and 2 about “first things” need to be read, not simply within the personal context of our salvation, but within a universal context that encompasses the “last things” and “all things”
The Church in the City
Authors: Meyers Eleanor Scott
Published: October 2011

Throughout history, the city has measured our capacity to live together and create a just way of life. The church in the city today is faced with enormous challenges and opportunities in its ministry to persons in need, from finding new sources of funding to responding to tectonic shifts in the urban social landscape.
Preaching And Postmodernism
Authors: Allen Ronald J.
Published: October 2011

Although rejecting the core values of the modern worldview, postmodernism may prove to be more blessing than bane for worshiping communities. From deconstruction to apologetics, the postmodern context calls for new ways of preaching the gospel.
“To Taste with the Heart”
Authors: Burrows Mark S.
Published: October 2011

The text is more than the sum of its grammatical and historical parts. All but lost in modern exegesis is an experiential dimension that only a poetic reading can discern.
Keeping It Real
Authors: Krause Deborah
Published: October 2011

The image of God in the New Testament represents a mix of traditions from the Hebrew Bible, early Judaism, and Hellenistic popular philosophy. Throughout these traditions the theme is integrally connected to the search for meaning in human existence. The Priestly Writer, Philo, and Paul understood the image of God as a means of both affirming God's sovereign authority over all creation and addressing the challenges of competing authorities in the world. Study of the theme provides a window into early Christian experience and how such experience emboldened Christians to follow Jesus in the proclamation of the Kingdom of God.
Obadiah—Jonah—Micah in Canonical Context: The Nature of Prophetic Literature and Hermeneutics
Authors: Biddle Mark E.
Published: October 2011

A series of observations concerning the books of Obadiah, Jonah, and Micah raise questions about prophecy's very nature and pose the issues of definition and interpretation in a way that can help to address this problem for modern readers of biblical prophecy.
Ashes, Shadows, and Crosses: Visualizing Lent
Authors: Jensen Robin M.
Published: October 2011

Lent is not normally thought of as a time for adding to or enriching the church's liturgy with visual art. This essay explores possibilities for using visual art that corresponds to the purpose of the season of Lent as a time for somber reflection and reconciliation.
The Jews and the Death of Jesus
Authors: Davies Alan T.
Published: October 2011

“Is it heretical to conclude that a noble rather than a base motive lay at the core of the Jewish unwillingness to join the apostolic church?”
On Jesus, Pharaohs, and the Chosen People
Authors: Smylie James H.
Published: October 2011

King assumed that exodus is an archetypal experience; it supplied him with the metaphorical language for interpreting the black experience in America—but always with agape informing his interpretation at every point along the way.
Jesus Came Preaching
Authors: Mays James L.
Published: October 2011

Jesus as the presence of God's Kingdom must be presented as an alternative to life under the powers and governments which normally make up the reality on which our living is based.
Where Christology Is Real
Authors: Boers Hendrikus
Published: October 2011

The one way to overcome the dilemma confronting New Testament Christology is to understand the christological titles as ways in which primitive Christianity tried to express who Jesus was as a response to the claim which was already implicit in his message and activity.
Structuralism and Biblical Studies: The Uninvited Guest
Authors: Spivey Robert A.
Published: October 2011

One may ask... whether historical exegesis which sought “objectivity” by situating the biblical text in a life-situation of its time has been so successful that another way of approach which situates the text in its set or system may not be a helpful corrective for working objectively with the texts.
The Interpretation of the Gospel of Mark
Authors: Perrin Norman
Published: October 2011

What is needed now is a critical method which does justice to an evangelist's literary activity and yet moves beyond concern for authorial activity and theology to include a concern for the text of the Gospel as a totality.
On Reading the Elijah Narratives
Authors: Childs Brevard S.
Published: October 2011

It is simply not the case that the more historical and literary knowledge acquired, the better one is able to understand the biblical text. The issue turns on the use of proper discernment.
Scripture and Christian Ethics
Authors: Childress James F
Published: October 2011

The use of Scripture for deliberation and justification in making moral judgments is a crucial and neglected function of the Bible in Christian ethics
The Social Context of Pauline Theology
Authors: Meeks Wayne A.
Published: October 2011

Biblical theology ought to find relevant to its task the whole story, if it can be learned, of the formation and reformation of the people for whom and by whom the biblical writings were made.
A Maker of Metaphors—Ezekiel's Oracles Against Tyre
Authors: Newsom Carol A.
Published: October 2011

A recognition of Ezekiel's skill in manipulating the power of metaphor to illumine reality helps us to grasp the subtlety, meaning, and prophetic force of his oracles against Tyre.
The Historical David
Authors: McCarter P. Kyle
Published: October 2011

Seeing David in historical perspective means to see Israel's greatest king as a military commander superior to all others of his region, yet strangely flawed in personal and governmental affairs.
Back to the Future
Authors: Klein Ralph W.
Published: October 2011

It is not the details in the account of the tabernacle that make up its significance but the underlying notion that God elects to be present with God's people. In both the ritual of liturgy and the commonality of daily life, God's presence is an act of grace, made in sovereign freedom.
“The Word Purely Preached and Heard”
Authors: Zink-Sawyer Beverly
Published: October 2011

Throughout Christian history, preachers have been mindful of the awesome responsibility of mediating the sacred space between pulpit and pew. The most recent homiletical move toward the listeners raises opportunities and challenges for the preacher.
International collaborative project to compare and monitor the nutritional composition of processed foods
Authors: Dunford Elizabeth , Webster Jacqui , Metzler Adriana Blanco , Czernichow Sebastien , Mhurchu Cliona Ni , Wolmarans Petro , Snowdon Wendy , L’Abbe Mary , Li Nicole , Maulik Pallab K , Barquera Simon , Schoj Verónica , Allemandi Lorena , Samman Norma , de Menezes Elizabete Wenzel , Hassell Trevor , Ortiz Johana , de Ariza Julieta Salazar , Rahman A Rashid , de Núñez Leticia , Garcia Maria Reyes , van Rossum Caroline , Westenbrink Susanne , Thiam Lim Meng , MacGregor Graham , Neal Bruce ,   (for the Food Monitoring Group)
Published: October 2011

Background

Chronic diseases are the leading cause of premature death and disability in the world with overnutrition a primary cause of diet-related ill health. Excess energy intake, saturated fat, sugar, and salt derived from processed foods are a major cause of disease burden. Our objective is to compare the nutritional composition of processed foods between countries, between food companies, and over time.

Design

Surveys of processed foods will be done in each participating country using a standardized methodology. Information on the nutrient composition for each product will be sought either through direct chemical analysis, from the product label, or from the manufacturer. Foods will be categorized into 14 groups and 45 categories for the primary analyses which will compare mean levels of nutrients at baseline and over time. Initial commitments to collaboration have been obtained from 21 countries.

Conclusions

This collaborative approach to the collation and sharing of data will enable objective and transparent tracking of processed food composition around the world. The information collected will support government and food industry efforts to improve the nutrient composition of processed foods around the world.
Health Professionals’ Preparation for Supporting Children and Parents Affected by Asthma and Allergies
Authors: Stewart Miriam , McGhan Shawna , Watt Susan , Anderson Sharon , Masuda Jeffrey R. , Letourneau Nicole , Sharpe Heather M.
Published: October 2011

Background: The objective of this study was to assess health professionals’ learning needs and preferences pertinent to the support and education of children with asthma and allergies. Method: A 26-item online survey (n = 47) and qualitative interviews (n = 10) elicited information from health professionals about the perceived support and education needs of children with asthma and allergies, health professionals experience and educational needs regarding support of children. Results: Health professionals believed that children needed professional education, support, and strategies to reduce effects of asthma and allergies. Time (66%) and cost (80.9%) were significant barriers to non-webbased education. Although these health professionals were interested in learning from and connecting with their own peers; promoting peer support for children with asthma and allergies received a lower rating on their list of education needs. Conclusions: This needs assessment study confirms that health professionals have limited time, funds, and options for asthma-and allergy-related professional development activities. It emphasizes the need for web-based education, group discussions, inclusion of information, and practical skills for teaching children. Understanding the value of incorporating peer support and social support into health programs may be limited.
Correction of Tetralogy of Fallot With Combination of Operative and Interventional Methods
Authors: Chen Tao , Zhao Bijun , Zuo Jian , Zhu Yongsheng , Li Hongling , Ren Kai , Yi Dinghua , Jin Zhenxiao
Published: October 2011

A one-stage repair was planned for an 11-year-old boy with tetralogy of Fallot. After initial attempts to wean from cardiopulmonary bypass were unsuccessful, an atrial septal defect and a ventricular septal defect were created in order to achieve hemodynamic stability. The boy recovered from the operation but had large volume of chest drainage. Transthoracic echocardiography revealed left to right shunting at both atrial and ventricular levels. Interventional catheter-directed devices were used to repair the residual shunts successfully in the catheterization laboratory.
Allo-HLA–reactive T cells inducing graft-versus-host disease are single peptide specific
Authors: Amir Avital L. , van der Steen Dirk M. , Hagedoorn Renate S. , Kester Michel G. D. , van Bergen Cornelis A. M. , Drijfhout Jan W. , de Ru Arnoud H. , Falkenburg J. H. Frederik , van Veelen Peter A. , Heemskerk Mirjam H. M.
Published: October 2011

T-cell alloreactivity directed against non–self-HLA molecules has been assumed to be less peptide specific than conventional T-cell reactivity. A large variation in degree of peptide specificity has previously been reported, including single peptide specificity, polyspecificity, and peptide degeneracy. Peptide polyspecificity was illustrated using synthetic peptide-loaded target cells, but in the absence of confirmation against endogenously processed peptides this may represent low-avidity T-cell reactivity. Peptide degeneracy was concluded based on recognition of Ag-processing defective cells. In addition, because most investigated alloreactive T cells were in vitro activated and expanded, the previously determined specificities may have not been representative for alloreactivity in vivo. To study the biologically relevant peptide specificity and avidity of alloreactivity, we investigated the degree of peptide specificity of 50 different allo-HLA–reactive T-cell clones which were activated and expanded in vivo during GVHD. All but one of the alloreactive T-cell clones, including those reactive against Ag-processing defective T2 cells, recognized a single peptide allo-HLA complex, unique for each clone. Down-regulation of the expression of the recognized Ags using silencing shRNAs confirmed single peptide specificity. Based on these results, we conclude that biologically relevant alloreactivity selected during in vivo immune response is peptide specific.
Molecular dissection of the miR-17-92 cluster's critical dual roles in promoting Th1 responses and preventing inducible Treg differentiation
Authors: Jiang Shan , Li Chaoran , Olive Virginie , Lykken Erik , Feng Feng , Sevilla Jose , Wan Ying , He Lin , Li Qi-Jing
Published: October 2011

Mir-17-92 encodes 6 miRNAs inside a single polycistronic transcript, the proper expression of which is critical for early B-cell development and lymphocyte homeostasis. However, during the T-cell antigen response, the physiologic function of endogenous miR-17-92 and the roles of the individual miRNAs remain elusive. In the present study, we functionally dissected the miR-17-92 cluster and revealed that miR-17 and miR-19b are the key players controlling Th1 responses through multiple coordinated biologic processes. These include: promoting proliferation, protecting cells from activation-induced cell death, supporting IFN-γ production, and suppressing inducible regulatory T-cell differentiation. Mechanistically, we identified Pten (phosphatase and tensin homolog) as the functionally important target of miR-19b, whereas the function of miR-17 is mediated by TGFβRII and the novel target CREB1. Because of its vigorous control over the Th1 cell–inducible regulatory T cell balance, the loss of miR-17-92 in CD4 T cells results in tumor evasion. Our results suggest that miR-19b and miR-17 could be harnessed to enhance the efficacy of T cell–based tumor therapy.
Positive feedback between PGE2 and COX2 redirects the differentiation of human dendritic cells toward stable myeloid-derived suppressor cells
Authors: Obermajer Nataša , Muthuswamy Ravikumar , Lesnock Jamie , Edwards Robert P. , Kalinski Pawel
Published: October 2011

Dendritic cells (DCs) and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) show opposing roles in the immune system. In the present study, we report that the establishment of a positive feedback loop between prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2), the key regulator of PGE2 synthesis, represents the determining factor in redirecting the development of CD1a+ DCs to CD14+CD33+CD34+ monocytic MDSCs. Exogenous PGE2 and such diverse COX2 activators as lipopolysaccharide, IL-1β, and IFNγ all induce monocyte expression of COX2, blocking their differentiation into CD1a+ DCs and inducing endogenous PGE2, IDO1, IL-4Rα, NOS2, and IL-10, typical MDSC-associated suppressive factors. The addition of PGE2 to GM-CSF/IL-4–supplemented monocyte cultures is sufficient to induce the MDSC phenotype and cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL)–suppressive function. In accordance with the key role of PGE2 in the physiologic induction of human MDSCs, the frequencies of CD11b+CD33+ MDSCs in ovarian cancer are closely correlated with local PGE2 production, whereas the cancer-promoted induction of MDSCs is strictly COX2 dependent. The disruption of COX2-PGE2 feedback using COX2 inhibitors or EP2 and EP4 antagonists suppresses the production of MDSC-associated suppressive factors and the CTL-inhibitory function of fully developed MDSCs from cancer patients. The central role of COX2-PGE2 feedback in the induction and persistence of MDSCs highlights the potential for its manipulation to enhance or suppress immune responses in cancer, autoimmunity, or transplantation.
Detecting genomic regions associated with a disease using variability functions and Adjusted Rand Index
Authors: Badescu Dunarel , Boc Alix , Diallo Abdoulaye Baniré , Makarenkov Vladimir
Published: October 2011

Background

The identification of functional regions contained in a given multiple sequence alignment constitutes one of the major challenges of comparative genomics. Several studies have focused on the identification of conserved regions and motifs. However, most of existing methods ignore the relationship between the functional genomic regions and the external evidence associated with the considered group of species (e.g., carcinogenicity of Human Papilloma Virus). In the past, we have proposed a method that takes into account the prior knowledge on an external evidence (e.g., carcinogenicity or invasivity of the considered organisms) and identifies genomic regions related to a specific disease.

Results and conclusion

We present a new algorithm for detecting genomic regions that may be associated with a disease. Two new variability functions and a bipartition optimization procedure are described. We validate and weigh our results using the Adjusted Rand Index (ARI), and thus assess to what extent the selected regions are related to carcinogenicity, invasivity, or any other species classification, given as input. The predictive power of different hit region detection functions was assessed on synthetic and real data. Our simulation results suggest that there is no a single function that provides the best results in all practical situations (e.g., monophyletic or polyphyletic evolution, and positive or negative selection), and that at least three different functions might be useful. The proposed hit region identification functions that do not benefit from the prior knowledge (i.e., carcinogenicity or invasivity of the involved organisms) can provide equivalent results than the existing functions that take advantage of such a prior knowledge. Using the new algorithm, we examined the Neisseria meningitidis FrpB gene product for invasivity and immunologic activity, and human papilloma virus (HPV) E6 oncoprotein for carcinogenicity, and confirmed some well-known molecular features, including surface exposed loops for N. meningitidis and PDZ domain for HPV.
In search of the genetic footprints of Sumerians: a survey of Y-chromosome and mtDNA variation in the Marsh Arabs of Iraq
Authors: Al-Zahery Nadia , Pala Maria , Battaglia Vincenza , Grugni Viola , Hamod Mohammed A , Kashani Baharak Hooshiar , Olivieri Anna , Torroni Antonio , Santachiara-Benerecetti Augusta S , Semino Ornella
Published: October 2011

Background

For millennia, the southern part of the Mesopotamia has been a wetland region generated by the Tigris and Euphrates rivers before flowing into the Gulf. This area has been occupied by human communities since ancient times and the present-day inhabitants, the Marsh Arabs, are considered the population with the strongest link to ancient Sumerians. Popular tradition, however, considers the Marsh Arabs as a foreign group, of unknown origin, which arrived in the marshlands when the rearing of water buffalo was introduced to the region.

Results

To shed some light on the paternal and maternal origin of this population, Y chromosome and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variation was surveyed in 143 Marsh Arabs and in a large sample of Iraqi controls. Analyses of the haplogroups and sub-haplogroups observed in the Marsh Arabs revealed a prevalent autochthonous Middle Eastern component for both male and female gene pools, with weak South-West Asian and African contributions, more evident in mtDNA. A higher male than female homogeneity is characteristic of the Marsh Arab gene pool, likely due to a strong male genetic drift determined by socio-cultural factors (patrilocality, polygamy, unequal male and female migration rates).

Conclusions

Evidence of genetic stratification ascribable to the Sumerian development was provided by the Y-chromosome data where the J1-Page08 branch reveals a local expansion, almost contemporary with the Sumerian City State period that characterized Southern Mesopotamia. On the other hand, a more ancient background shared with Northern Mesopotamia is revealed by the less represented Y-chromosome lineage J1-M267*. Overall our results indicate that the introduction of water buffalo breeding and rice farming, most likely from the Indian sub-continent, only marginally affected the gene pool of autochthonous people of the region. Furthermore, a prevalent Middle Eastern ancestry of the modern population of the marshes of southern Iraq implies that if the Marsh Arabs are descendants of the ancient Sumerians, also the Sumerians were most likely autochthonous and not of Indian or South Asian ancestry.
A metagenomic study of methanotrophic microorganisms in Coal Oil Point seep sediments
Authors: Håvelsrud Othilde Elise , Haverkamp Thomas HA , Kristensen Tom , Jakobsen Kjetill S , Rike Anne Gunn
Published: October 2011

Background

Methane oxidizing prokaryotes in marine sediments are believed to function as a methane filter reducing the oceanic contribution to the global methane emission. In the anoxic parts of the sediments, oxidation of methane is accomplished by anaerobic methanotrophic archaea (ANME) living in syntrophy with sulphate reducing bacteria. This anaerobic oxidation of methane is assumed to be a coupling of reversed methanogenesis and dissimilatory sulphate reduction. Where oxygen is available aerobic methanotrophs take part in methane oxidation. In this study, we used metagenomics to characterize the taxonomic and metabolic potential for methane oxidation at the Tonya seep in the Coal Oil Point area, California. Two metagenomes from different sediment depth horizons (0-4 cm and 10-15 cm below sea floor) were sequenced by 454 technology. The metagenomes were analysed to characterize the distribution of aerobic and anaerobic methanotrophic taxa at the two sediment depths. To gain insight into the metabolic potential the metagenomes were searched for marker genes associated with methane oxidation.

Results

Blast searches followed by taxonomic binning in MEGAN revealed aerobic methanotrophs of the genus Methylococcus to be overrepresented in the 0-4 cm metagenome compared to the 10-15 cm metagenome. In the 10-15 cm metagenome, ANME of the ANME-1 clade, were identified as the most abundant methanotrophic taxon with 8.6% of the reads. Searches for particulate methane monooxygenase (pmoA) and methyl-coenzyme M reductase (mcrA), marker genes for aerobic and anaerobic oxidation of methane respectively, identified pmoA in the 0-4 cm metagenome as Methylococcaceae related. The mcrA reads from the 10-15 cm horizon were all classified as originating from the ANME-1 clade.

Conclusions

Most of the taxa detected were present in both metagenomes and differences in community structure and corresponding metabolic potential between the two samples were mainly due to abundance differences.

The results suggests that the Tonya Seep sediment is a robust methane filter, where taxa presently dominating this process could be replaced by less abundant methanotrophic taxa in case of changed environmental conditions.
A proposed method to investigate reliability throughout a questionnaire
Authors: Wentzel-Larsen Tore , Norekvål Tone M , Ulvik Bjørg , Nygård Ottar , Pripp Are H
Published: October 2011

Background

Questionnaires are used extensively in medical and health care research and depend on validity and reliability. However, participants may differ in interest and awareness throughout long questionnaires, which can affect reliability of their answers. A method is proposed for "screening" of systematic change in random error, which could assess changed reliability of answers.

Methods

A simulation study was conducted to explore whether systematic change in reliability, expressed as changed random error, could be assessed using unsupervised classification of subjects by cluster analysis (CA) and estimation of intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The method was also applied on a clinical dataset from 753 cardiac patients using the Jalowiec Coping Scale.

Results

The simulation study showed a relationship between the systematic change in random error throughout a questionnaire and the slope between the estimated ICC for subjects classified by CA and successive items in a questionnaire. This slope was proposed as an awareness measure - to assessing if respondents provide only a random answer or one based on a substantial cognitive effort. Scales from different factor structures of Jalowiec Coping Scale had different effect on this awareness measure.

Conclusions

Even though assumptions in the simulation study might be limited compared to real datasets, the approach is promising for assessing systematic change in reliability throughout long questionnaires. Results from a clinical dataset indicated that the awareness measure differed between scales.
Rare gallbladder adenomyomatosis presenting as atypical cholecystitis: case report
Authors: Lin Sheng-Hong , Chang Feng-Yee , Yang Ya-Sung , Jin Jong-Shiaw , Chen Teng-Wei
Published: October 2011

Background

Gallbladder adenomyomatosis is a benign condition characterized by hyperplastic change in the gallbladder wall and overgrowth of the mucosa because of an unknown cause. Patients with gallbladder adenomyomatosis usually present with abdominal pain. However, we herein describe a case of a patient with gallbladder adenomyomatosis who did not present with abdominal pain, but with only fever.

Case presentation

A 34-year-old man presented to our hospital with a fever. No abdominal discomfort was declared. His physical examination showed no abnormalities. Ultrasound of the abdomen revealed thickness of the gallbladder. Acute cholecystitis was diagnosed. The fever persisted even after 1 week of antibiotic therapy. Magnetic resonance imaging of the abdomen showed gallbladder adenomyomatosis with intramural Rokitansky-Aschoff sinuses. Exploratory laparotomy with cholecystectomy was performed. The fever recovered and no residual symptoms were reported at the 3-year follow-up.

Conclusions

Gallbladder adenomyomatosis can present with fever as the only symptom. Although the association between gallbladder adenomyomatosis and malignancy has yet to be elucidated, previous reports have shown a strong association between gallbladder carcinoma and a subtype of gallbladder adenomyomatosis. Surgical intervention remains the first-choice treatment for patients with gallbladder adenomyomatosis.