bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The polymorphism and the geographical distribution of the knockdown resistance (kdr) of Anopheles sinensis in the Republic of Korea
Authors: Kang Seunghyun , Jung Jongwoo , Lee Sanghui , Hwang Heeseung , Kim Won
Published: May 2012

Background

In the Republic of Korea (ROK), six sibling species of theAnopheles sinensiscomplex are considered the vector species of malaria, but data on their susceptibilities to malaria and vector capacities have been controversial. The intensive use of insecticides has contributed to the rapid development and spread of insecticide resistance in theAn. sinensiscomplex. Knockdown resistance (kdr) to pyrethroids and DDT in theAn. sinensiscomplex is associated with a mutation in codon 1014 of the voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) gene. Because the degree of insecticide resistance varies among mosquito species and populations, the detection ofkdrmutations among the six sibling species of theAn. sinensiscomplex is a prerequisite for establishing effective long-term vector control strategies in the ROK

Methods

In order to investigate species-specifickdrmutations,An. sinensiscomplex specimens have been collected from 22 sites in the ROK. Because of the difficulties with species identifications that are based only on morphological characteristics, molecular identification methods have been conducted on every specimen. Part of the IIS6 domain of the VGSC was polymerase chain reaction-amplified and directly sequenced.

Results

The molecular analyses revealed that mutations existed at codon 1014 only inAn. sinensissensu stricto and no mutations were found in the other fiveAnophelesspecies. InAn. sinensiss.s., one wild type (TTG L1014) and three mutant types (TTT L1014F, TTC L1014F, and TGT L1014C) ofkdralleles were detected. The TTC L1014F mutation was observed for the first time in this species.

Conclusions

The fact that the highly polymorphickdrgene is only observed inAn. sinensiss.s., out of the sixAnophelesspecies and their geographical distribution suggest the need for future studies of insecticide resistance monitoring and investigations of species-specific resistance mechanisms in order to build successful malaria vector control programmes in the ROK.
Using community-owned resource persons to provide early diagnosis and treatment and estimate malaria burden at community level in north-eastern Tanzania
Authors: Rutta Acleus S M , Francis Filbert , Mmbando Bruno P , Ishengoma Deus S , Sembuche Samwel H , Malecela Ezekiel K , Sadi Johari Y , Kamugisha Mathias L , Lemnge Martha M
Published: May 2012

Background

Although early diagnosis and prompt treatment is an important strategy for control of malaria, using fever to initiate presumptive treatment with expensive artemisinin combination therapy is a major challenge; particularly in areas with declining burden of malaria. This study was conducted using community-owned resource persons (CORPs) to provide early diagnosis and treatment of malaria, and collect data for estimation of malaria burden in four villages of Korogwe district, north-eastern Tanzania.

Methods

In 2006, individuals with history of fever within 24 hours or fever (axillary temperature ≥37.5°C) at presentation were presumptively treated using sulphadoxine/pyrimethamine. Between 2007 and 2010, individuals aged five years and above, with positive rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) were treated with artemether/lumefantrine (AL) while under-fives were treated irrespective of RDT results. Reduction in anti-malarial consumption was determined by comparing the number of cases that would have been presumptively treated and those that were actually treated based on RDTs results. Trends of malaria incidence and slide positivity rates were compared between lowlands and highlands.

Results

Of 15,729 cases attended, slide positivity rate was 20.4% and declined by >72.0% from 2008, reaching <10.0% from 2009 onwards; and the slide positivity rates were similar in lowlands and highlands from 2009 onwards. Cases with fever at presentation declined slightly, but remained at >40.0% in under-fives and >20.0% among individuals aged five years and above. With use of RDTs, cases treated with AL decreased from <58.0% in 2007 to <11.0% in 2010 and the numbers of adult courses saved were 3,284 and 1,591 in lowlands and highlands respectively. Malaria incidence declined consistently from 2008 onwards; and the highest incidence of malaria shifted from children aged <10 years to individuals aged 10–19 years from 2009.

Conclusions

With basic training, supervision and RDTs, CORPs successfully provided early diagnosis and treatment and reduced consumption of anti-malarials. Progressively declining malaria incidence and slide positivity rates suggest that all fever cases should be tested with RDTs before treatment. Data collected by CORPs was used to plan phase 1b MSP3 malaria vaccine trial and will be used for monitoring and evaluation of different health interventions. The current situation indicates that there is a remarkable changing pattern of malaria and these areas might be moving from control to pre-elimination levels.
Maternal characteristics associated with the dietary intake of nitrates, nitrites, and nitrosamines in women of child-bearing age: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Griesenbeck John S , Brender Jean D , Sharkey Joseph R , Steck Michelle D , Huber John C , Rene Antonio A , McDonald Thomas J , Romitti Paul A , Canfield Mark A , Langlois Peter H , Suarez Lucina ,   the National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Published: May 2012

Background

MultipleN-nitroso compounds have been observed in animal studies to be both mutagenic and teratogenic. Human exposure toN-nitroso compounds and their precursors, nitrates and nitrites, can occur through exogenous sources, such as diet, drinking water, occupation, or environmental exposures, and through endogenous exposures resulting from the formation ofN-nitroso compounds in the body. Very little information is available on intake of nitrates, nitrites, and nitrosamines and factors related to increased consumption of these compounds.

Methods

Using survey and dietary intake information from control women (with deliveries of live births without major congenital malformations during 1997-2004) who participated in the National Birth Defects Prevention Study (NBDPS), we examined the relation between various maternal characteristics and intake of nitrates, nitrites, and nitrosamines from dietary sources. Estimated intake of these compounds was obtained from the Willet Food Frequency Questionnaire as adapted for the NBDPS. Multinomial logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for the consumption of these compounds by self-reported race/ethnicity and other maternal characteristics.

Results

Median intake per day for nitrates, nitrites, total nitrites (nitrites + 5% nitrates), and nitrosamines was estimated at 40.48 mg, 1.53 mg, 3.69 mg, and 0.472 μg respectively. With the lowest quartile of intake as the referent category and controlling for daily caloric intake, factors predicting intake of these compounds included maternal race/ethnicity, education, body mass index, household income, area of residence, folate intake, and percent of daily calories from dietary fat. Non-Hispanic White participants were less likely to consume nitrates, nitrites, and total nitrites per day, but more likely to consume dietary nitrosamines than other participants that participated in the NBDPS. Primary food sources of these compounds also varied by maternal race/ethnicity.

Conclusions

Results of this study indicate that intake of nitrates, nitrites, and nitrosamines vary considerably by race/ethnicity, education, body mass index, and other characteristics. Further research is needed regarding how consumption of foods high in nitrosamines andN-nitroso precursors might relate to risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes and chronic diseases.
Shotgun proteomic analysis of mulberry dwarf phytoplasma
Authors: Ji Xianling , Gai Yingping , Lu Baoyun , Zheng Chengchao , Mu Zhimei
Published: May 2012

Background

Mulberry dwarf (MD), which is caused by phytoplasma, is one of the most serious infectious diseases of mulberry. Phytoplasmas have been associated with diseases in several hundred plant species. The inability to culture phytoplasmas in vitro has hindered their characterization at the molecular level. Though the complete genomes of two phytoplasmas have been published, little information has been obtained about the proteome of phytoplasma. Therefore, the proteomic information of phytoplasmas would be useful to elucidate the functional mechanisms of phytoplasma in many biological processes.

Results

MD phytoplasmas, which belong to the 16SrI-B subgroup based on the 16S DNA analysis, were purified from infected tissues using a combination of differential centrifugation and density gradient centrifugation. The expressed proteome of phytoplasma was surveyed by one-dimensional SDS-PAGE and nanocapillary liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. A total of 209 phytoplasma proteins were unambiguously assigned, including the proteins with the functions of amino acid biosynthesis, cell envelope, cellular processes, energy metabolism, nucleosides and nucleotide metabolism, replication, transcription, translation, transport and binding as well as the proteins with other functions. In addition to these known function proteins, 63 proteins were annotated as hypothetical or conserved hypothetical proteins.

Conclusions

Taken together, a total of 209 phytoplasma proteins have been experimentally verified, representing the most extensive survey of any phytoplasma proteome to date. This study provided a valuable dataset of phytoplasma proteins, and a better understanding of the energy metabolism and virulence mechanisms of MD phytoplasma.
Opiate users' knowledge about overdose prevention and naloxone in New York City: a focus group study
Authors: Worthington Nancy , Markham Piper Tinka , Galea Sandro , Rosenthal David
Published: May 2012

Background

Drug-induced and drug-related deaths have been increasing for the past decade throughout the US. In NYC, drug overdose accounts for nearly 900 deaths per year, a figure that exceeds the number of deaths each year from homicide. Naloxone, a highly effective opiate antagonist, has for decades been used by doctors and paramedics during emergency resuscitation after an opiate overdose. Following the lead of programs in Europe and the US who have successfully distributed take-home naloxone, the Overdose Prevention and Reversal Program at the Lower East Side Harm Reduction Center (LESHRC) has started providing a similar resource for opiate users in NYC. Participants in the program receive a prescription for two doses of naloxone, with refills as needed, and comprehensive training to reduce overdose risk, administer naloxone, perform rescue breathing, and call 911. As of September 2005, 204 participants have received naloxone and been trained, and 40 have revived an overdosing friend or family member. While naloxone accessibility stands as a proven life-saving measure, some opiates users at LESHRC have expressed only minimal interest in naloxone use, due to past experiences and common misconceptions.

Methods

In order to improve the naloxone distribution program two focus groups were conducted in December 2004 with 13 opiate users at LESHRC to examine knowledge about overdose and overdose prevention. The focus groups assessed participants' (i) experiences with overdose response, specifically naloxone (ii) understanding and perceptions of naloxone, (iii) comfort level with naloxone administration and (iv) feedback about increasing the visibility and desirability of the naloxone distribution program.

Results

Analyses suggest that there is both support for and resistance to take-home naloxone, marked by enthusiasm for its potential role in reviving an overdosing individual, numerous misconceptions and negative views of its impact and use.

Conclusion

Focus group results will be used to increase participation in the program and reshape perceptions about naloxone among opiate users, also targeting those already prescribed naloxone to increase their comfort using it. Since NYC is advancing toward a citywide naloxone distribution program, the LESHRC program will play an important role in establishing protocol for effective and wide-reaching naloxone availability.
Radical hysterectomy in the elderly
Authors: Mousavi Azamsadat , Zarchi Mojgan Karimi , Modares Gilani Mitra , Behtash Nadereh , Ghaemmaghami Fatemeh , Shams Maryam , Irvanipoor Maryam
Published: May 2012

Background

The considerable increase in life expectancy on one hand and an increase in cervical cancer among Iranian patients on the other, brings out the importance of investigating whether radical surgery can be performed safely and effectively on patients above 60 years of age.

Methods

In a study of historical cohort, all 22 patients 60 years and above who have undergone a Wertheim radical hysterectomy for cervical cancer from 1999 to 2005 were compared with 128 matched cases under 60 years of age who had undergone a Wertheim hysterectomy during the same calendar year. All patients were analyzed for preexisting medical comorbidities, length of postoperative stay, morbidity, and postoperative mortality.

Results

There was no operative mortality in either group, morbidity (minor, p = 0.91; major, p = 0.89) were statistically not different in the two groups despite the patient's above 60 years having significantly higher comorbidity prior to surgery than the younger cohort (minor, P < 0.05; major, P < 0.05). The mean postoperative hospital stay was significantly longer in the older patients (5 days vs. 3 days, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Wertheim Radical hysterectomy is a safe surgical procedure in the selected population of patients 60 years and over. No differences in operative mortality or morbidity were found when compared to a cohort of patient's aged 60 years or younger.
Role of cervical dendritic cell subsets, co-stimulatory molecules, cytokine secretion profile and beta-estradiol in development of sequalae to Chlamydia trachomatis infection
Authors: Agrawal Tanvi , Vats Vikas , Wallace Paul K , Salhan Sudha , Mittal Aruna
Published: May 2012

Background

Chlamydia trachomatis infection of the female genital tract can lead to serious sequelae resulting in fertility related disorders. Little is known about the mechanism leading to Chlamydia induced pathology and factors responsible for it. As only some of the women develops reproductive disorders while majority of the women clears infection without any severe sequalae, mucosal immune response in women with or without fertility disorders was studied to identify factors which may lead to final clinical outcome of chlamydial infection.

Methods

Myeloid DCs (mDCs) and plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs) populations in cervical mucosa and peripheral blood were analyzed in controls and Chlamydia positive women with or without fertility disorders with multicoloured flow cytometric analysis. Cervical cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, TNF-alpha and IFN-gamma), C-reactive protein levels and sex hormone levels in serum were quantified by ELISA.

Results

In cervix of Chlamydia positive women with fertility disorders, significantly high (P < 0.05) numbers of pDCs were present with increased CD80 expression. pDCs correlated significantly with C-reactive protein levels, IL-6 and IFN-gamma levels in women with fertility disorders. In contrast, mDCs showed significant upregulation of CD1a during chlamydial infection and correlated significantly with IL-12 levels in Chlamydia positive fertile women. β-estradiol levels were significantly higher in women having fertility disorders as compared to fertile women and have significant correlations (r = 0.65; P < 0.05) with pDCs numbers, CD80 expression, IL-6 levels and IFN-gamma levels in these women.

Conclusion

These results suggest that development of sequalae in some women can be a result of interplay of many factors including type of dendritic cell, co stimulatory molecule expression, cytokine secretion pattern and hormone levels.
Is satisfaction a direct predictor of nursing turnover? Modelling the relationship between satisfaction, expressed intention and behaviour in a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Murrells Trevor , Robinson Sarah , Griffiths Peter
Published: May 2012

Background

The theory of planned behaviour states that attitudinal variables (e.g. job satisfaction) only have an indirect effect on retention whereas intentions have a direct effect. This study uses secondary data from a longitudinal cohort of newly qualified nurses to test for the direct and indirect effects of job satisfaction (client care, staffing, development, relationships, education, work-life interface, resources, pay) and intentions to nurse on working as a nurse during the 3 years after qualification.

Methods

A national sample (England) of newly qualified (1997/98) nurses (n = 3669) were surveyed at 6 months, 18 months and 3 years. ANOVA and MANOVA were used for comparison of mean job satisfaction scores between groups; intentions to nurse (very likely, likely vs. unlikely, very unlikely and unable to say at this stage); working (or not working as a nurse) at each time-point. Indirect and direct effects were tested using structural equation and logistic regression models.

Results

Intentions expressed at 6 months to nurse at 18 months were associated with higher scores on pay and relationships, and intentions at 3 years were associated with higher scores on care, development, relationships, work-life interface, resources, pay respectively. Intentions expressed at 18 months to nurse at 3 years were associated with higher scores on development, relationships, education and work-life interface. Associations with actual nursing were fewer. Those working as a nurse had higher satisfaction scores for development (18 months) and relationships (3 years). Regression models found significant associations between the pay and staffing factors and intentions expressed at 6 months to nurse at 18 months, and between pay and intentions to nurse at 3 years. Many of the associations between intentions and working as a nurse were significant. Development was the only job satisfaction factor significantly associated with working as a nurse and just at 18 months.

Conclusion

Results partially support the theory of planned behaviour. Intentions expressed by nurses are stronger predictors of working as a nurse than job satisfaction. Retention strategies should focus on identifying nurses showing early signs of departure with emphasis on developmental aspects, mentoring and support.
Development of avian influenza virus H5 DNA vaccine and MDP-1 gene of Mycobacterium bovisas genetic adjuvant
Authors: Jalilian Babak , Omar Abdul Rahman , Bejo Mohd Hair , Alitheen Noorjahan Banu , Rasoli Mehdi , Matsumoto Sohkichi
Published: May 2012

Background

Studies have shown that DNA vaccines can induce protective immunity, which demonstrated the high potential of DNA vaccines as an alternative to inactivated vaccines. Vaccines are frequently formulated with adjuvants to improve their release, delivery and presentation to the host immune system.

Methods

The H5 gene of H5N1 virus (A/Ck/Malaysia/5858/04) was cloned separately into pcDNA3.1 + vector. The immunogenicity of the cloned H5 DNA vaccine was tested on SPF chickens using two different approaches. First approach was using H5 DNA vaccine (pcDNA3.1/H5) and the second was using H5 DNA vaccine in addition to the pcDNA3.1/MDP1 vaccine. Ten days old chickens inoculated three times with two weeks intervals. The spleen and muscle samples from chickens immunized with H5 (pcDNA3.1/H5) and H5 + MDP1 (pcDNA3.1/H5 + pcDNA3.1/MDP1) vaccines were collected after sacrificing the chickens and successfully expressed H5 and MDP1 RNA transcripts. The sera of immunized chickens were collected prior to first immunization and every week after immunization; and analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and hemagglutination inhibition (HI) test.

Results

Results of competitive ELISA showed successful antibody responses two weeks post immunization. The HI test showed an increased in antibody titers during the course of experiment in group immunized with H5 and H5 + MDP1 vaccines. The result showed that the constructed DNA vaccines were able to produce detectable antibody titer in which the group immunized with H5 + MDP1 vaccine produced higher antibody comparing to H5 vaccine alone.

Conclusions

This study shows for the first time the usefulness of MDP1 as a genetic adjuvant for H5 DNA vaccine.
Overweight and obese adolescents: what turns them off physical activity?
Authors: Stankov Ivana , Olds Timothy , Cargo Margaret
Published: May 2012

A systematic review of qualitative studies was undertaken to understand the barriers to physical activity experienced by adolescents who were overweight or obese. From a search of electronic databases and ‘grey’ literature, published between 1950 and 2009, 15 studies met the inclusion criteria. Bronfenbrenner’s model of human development provided an ecological lens for identifying and synthesising barriers to physical activity. Two reviewers appraised study quality. Miles and Huberman’s cross-case analysis was integrated with thematic networking to synthesize the individual, interpersonal and environmental level barriers for boys and girls of different ethnicities and socioeconomic status, across school settings and generalised context. Thirty-five barriers were identified, 13 of which occurred in physical activity situations in the school setting, 18 were not linked to a specific setting, and the remainder were common across both contexts. The fact that these barriers emerged from studies that focused on topics such as victimisation and mental health is particularly poignant and reflects the potentially pervasive influence of adolescent’s excessive weight not only in relation to physical activity situations but other aspects of their lives. Furthermore, socioeconomic status and ethnicity was poorly considered, with only one study linking these participant characteristics to quotations and discussing the potential implications. At present, there are few qualitative studies with sufficiently thick description or interpretive validity that provide insight into this vulnerable group of adolescents, and give them a voice to influence policy and practice.
Role overload, pain and physical dysfunction in early rheumatoid or undifferentiated inflammatory arthritis in Canada
Authors: Mustafa Sally Sabry , Looper Karl Julian , Zelkowitz Phyllis , Purden Margaret ,   McGill Early Arthritis Research Group, Baron Murray
Published: May 2012

Background

Inflammatory arthritis impairs participation in societal roles. Role overload arises when the demands by a given role set exceed the resources; time and energy, to carry out the required tasks. The present study examines the association between role overload and disease outcomes in early inflammatory arthritis (EIA).

Methods

Patients (n = 104) of 7.61 months mean duration of inflammatory arthritis completed self-report questionnaires on sociodemographics, disease characteristics and role overload. Pain was assessed using the Short Form McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ) and physical functioning was measured with the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36 (SF-36) physical functioning score. Role overload was measured by the Role Overload Scale. Patients indicated the number of social roles they occupied from a total of the three typical roles; marital, parental and paid work.

Results

Participants’ mean age was 56 years and 70.2% were female. Role overload was not correlated to the number of social roles, however, it was positively associated with pain (p = 0.004) and negatively associated with physical functioning (p = 0.001). On multivariate analysis, role overload was negatively associated with physical functioning after controlling for the relevant sociodemographic variables.

Conclusion

This study identifies a possible reciprocal relationship between role overload and physical functioning in patients with EIA.
The role of estrogen receptor alpha in mediating chemoresistance in breast cancer cells
Authors: Jiang Zhinong , Guo Junlan , Shen Jianguo , Jin Mei , Xie Shuduo , Wang Linbo
Published: May 2012

Introduction

Previous studies suggested that estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) plays an important role in the chemoresistance of breast cancers. However, large random trials failed to demonstrate any benefit of the concurrent estrogen antagonist tamoxifen on the chemotherapy efficacy. Thus, in the present study, the importance of the role of ERα in the chemoresistance of breast cancer cells was investigated.

Methods

The ERα-transfected Bcap37 cells and natural ERα-positive T47D breast cancer cells were treated using chemotherapeutic agents with or without 17-beta estradiol (E2) pretreatment. Their viabilities were assessed using 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assays. The dead cell rates were determined using propidium iodide dye exclusion tests, and the expression levels of Bcl-2 and Bax were detected through Western blot analysis. The effects of E2 on the growth of breast cancer cells were also determined via cell growth curve and cell cycle analysis.

Results

ERα activation by E2 increased the sensitivity of natural ERα-positive T47D breast cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents. However, the increase in ERα expression in ERα-negative Bcap37 breast cancer cells also significantly increased their resistance. These phenomena cannot be explained by asserting that ERα mediated the chemoresistance of breast cancer cells by regulating the expression of Bcl-2 and Bax. Our findings show that ERα activation upregulated the expression of Bcl-2 in natural ERα-positive T47D breast cancer cells, whereas ERα activation by E2 downregulated and upregulated the Bcl-2 and Bax expression levels, respectively, in ERα-transfected Bcap37 cells. This phenomenon was due to the influence of ERα on the growth of breast cancer cells. Specifically, ERα activation enhanced the growth of natural ERα-positive breast cancer cells and thus increased their sensitivity to chemotherapeutic agents. However, ERα activation also inhibited the growth of ERα-transfected Bcap37 cells and increased the resistance of cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents. Chemoresistance of ERα-transfected Bcap37 cells was only due to the specific growth inhibition by E2, which is not applicable to common ERα-positive breast cancer cells.

Conclusions

Although ERα was associated with chemoresistance of breast cancers, ERα itself did not mediate this resistance process.
Impact of intensive care unit admission during morning bedside rounds and mortality: a multi-center retrospective cohort study
Authors: de Souza IvensAugusto O , Karvellas Constantine J , Gibney RT Noel , Bagshaw Sean M
Published: May 2012

Introduction

Recent data have suggested that patient admission during intensive care unit (ICU) morning bedside rounds is associated with less favorable outcome. We undertook the present study to explore the association between morning round-time ICU admissions and hospital mortality in a large Canadian health region.

Methods

A multi-center retrospective cohort study was performed at five hospitals in Edmonton, Canada, between July 2002 and December 2009. Round-time ICU admission was defined as occurring between 8 and 11:59 a.m. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to explore the association between round-time admission and outcome.

Results

Of 18,857 unique ICU admissions, 2,055 (10.9%) occurred during round time. Round-time admissions were more frequent in community hospitals compared with tertiary hospitals (12.0% vs. 10.5%; odds ratio [OR] 1.16; 95% CI, 1.05-1.29, P < 0.004) and from the ward compared with the emergency department (ED) or operating theater (17.5% vs. 9.2%; OR 2.1; 95% CI, 1.9-2.3, P < 0.0001). Round-time admissions were more often medical than surgical (12.6% vs. 6.6%; OR 2.06; 95% CI, 1.83-2.31, P < 0.0001), had more comorbid illness (11.9% vs. 10.5%; OR 1.15; 95% CI, 1.04-1.27, P < 0.008) and higher APACHE II score (22.2 vs. 21.3, P < 0.001), and were more likely to have a primary diagnosis of respiratory failure (37.0% vs. 31.3%, P < 0.001) or sepsis (11.1% vs. 9.0%, P = 0.002). Crude ICU mortality (15.3% vs. 11.6%; OR 1.38; 95% CI, 1.21-1.57, P < 0.0001) and hospital mortality (23.9% vs. 20.6%; OR 1.21; 95% CI, 1.09-1.35, P < 0.001) were higher for round-time compared with non-round-time admissions. In multi-variable analysis, round-time admission was associated with increased ICU mortality (OR 1.19, 95% CI, 1.03-1.38, P = 0.017) but was not significantly associated with hospital mortality (OR 1.02; 95% CI, 0.90-1.16, P = 0.700). In the subgroup admitted from the ED, round-time admission showed significantly higher ICU mortality (OR 1.54; 95% CI, 1.21-1.95; P < 0.001) and a trend for higher hospital mortality (OR 1.22; 95% CI, 0.99-1.51, P = 0.057).

Conclusions

Approximately 1 in 10 patients is admitted during morning rounds. These patients are more commonly admitted from the ward and are burdened by comorbidities, are non-operative, and have higher illness severity. These patients admitted during morning rounds have higher observed ICU mortality but no difference in hospital mortality.
Bud4 mediates the cell-type-specific assembly of the axial landmark in budding yeast
Authors: Kang Pil Jung , Angerman Elizabeth , Jung Chan-Hun , Park Hay-Oak
Published: May 2012

Cell polarization occurs along a single axis that is generally determined by a spatial cue. Cells of the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae select a site for polarized growth in a specific pattern depending on cell type. Haploid a and α cells bud in the axial budding pattern, which depends on a transient marker and requires proteins Bud3, Bud4, Axl1 and Axl2. Here we report that Bud4 functions as a platform that mediates the ordered assembly of the axial landmark at the division site during M and early G1. While Bud4 associates with Bud3 in all cell types and in the absence of Axl1 or Axl2, Bud4 interacts with Axl1 and Axl2 mainly in haploid cells and only in the presence of all other components of the landmark. Bud4 can bind to GTP or GDP, and a GTP binding-defective Bud4 fails to interact with Axl1 in vitro. The same bud4 mutation leads to mis-localization of Axl1 and disrupts the axial budding pattern, indicating that GTP binding to Bud4 is important for its role in bud-site selection. We also show the cell-type-specific association of the axial landmark with Bud5, a GDP/GTP exchange factor for Rsr1. Despite their expression in all cell types, Bud4 and Axl2 associate with Bud5 specifically in haploid cells and in the presence of Axl1, whose expression is limited to a and α cells. Together, our findings suggest that Bud4 plays a critical role in the assembly of the axial landmark and its link to the Rsr1 GTPase module.
Dual function of the UNC-45b Chaperone with myosin and GATA4 in cardiac development
Authors: Chen Daisi , Li Shumin , Singh Ram , Spinette Sarah , Sedlmeier Reinhard , Epstein Henry F.
Published: May 2012

Cardiac development requires interplay between the regulation of gene expression and the assembly of functional sarcomeric proteins. We report that UNC-45b recessive loss-of-function mutations in C3H and C57BL/6 inbred mouse strains produce arrest of cardiac morphogenesis at the formation of right heart structures and failure of contractile function. Wild-type C3H and C57BL/6 embryos at the same stage, E9.5, form actively contracting right and left atria and ventricles. The known interactions of UNC-45b as a molecular chaperone are consistent with diminished accumulation of the sarcomeric myosins, but not their mRNAs, and the resulting decreased contraction of homozygous mutant embryonic hearts. The novel finding that GATA-4 accumulation is similarly decreased at the protein but not mRNA levels is also consistent with the function of UNC-45b as a chaperone. The mRNAs of known downstream targets of GATA4, during secondary cardiac field development, the cardiogenic factors Hand1, Hand2, and Nkx-2.5, are also decreased consistent with the reduced GATA-4 protein accumulation. Direct binding studies show that the UNC-45b chaperone forms physical complexes with both the alpha and beta cardiac myosins and the cardiogenic transcription factor GATA4. Co-expression of UNC-45b with GATA4 led to enhanced transcription from GATA promoters in naïve cells. These novel results suggest that the heart-specific UNC-45b isoform functions as a molecular chaperone mediating contractile function of the sarcomere and gene expression in cardiac development.
Improving Scotland's health: time for a fresh approach?
Authors: Stone D H
Published: May 2012

Scotland's health remains the worst in the UK. There are several probable reasons for this. Of those that are amenable to change, health improvement policy has been excessively preoccupied with targeting individuals perceived to be ‘at risk’ rather than adopting a whole population perspective. Environmental as opposed to behavioural approaches to health improvement have been relatively neglected. To meet the challenge of Scotland's poor health more effectively in the future, new strategic thinking is necessary. Three initial steps are required: recognize that current approaches are inadequate and that fresh ideas are needed; identify the principles that should underlie future strategy development; translate these principles into achievable operational objectives. Five principles of a revitalized strategy to improve the health of Scotland in the future are proposed. These are start early and sustain effort; create a healthy and safe environment; reduce geographical as well as social inequalities in health; adopt an evidence-based approach to public health interventions; use epidemiology to assess need, plan interventions and monitor progress. These principles may then be translated into achievable operational policy and practice objectives.
Radiological interventions for soft tissue injuries in sport
Authors: Campbell R S D , Dunn A J
Published: May 2012

Injection therapy has played an integral role in the rehabilitation of sports injuries for many years. The athlete's primary goal is a rapid return to sporting activity. This may be achieved by a combination of either a temporary or permanent reduction in pain, and by a pharmacological or physiological effect that promotes or accelerates a healing response. A wide variety of pharmacological agents are used. However, there is often a lack of good evidence that quantifiable effects can be achieved. There are restrictions on the use of some pharmaceutical agents. This article reviews the various pharmacological agents and bioactive substrates that are available, and discusses the current evidence base of their use in common sports injuries.
Clinical implementation of kilovoltage cone beam CT for the verification of sequential and integrated photon boost treatments for breast cancer patients
Authors: Donovan E M , Castellano I , Eagle S , Harris E
Published: May 2012

Objective

The objective of this study was to formulate a practical method for the use of cone beam CT (CBCT) for the verification of sequential and integrated tumour bed boosts for early breast cancer patients.

Methods

Partial arc scan geometries were assessed on a treatment unit. Imaging dose measurements on an Elekta Synergy CBCT system were made in a CT dose phantom for scan parameters 100 kV, 25 mA and 40 ms with an S20 collimator. The protocol was used to verify the setup of a cohort of 38 patients, all of whom had surgical clips inserted in the tumour bed. Setup errors with and without an extended no action level (eNAL) protocol were calculated.

Results

Arcs from 260° to 85° (left breast) and 185° to 15° (right breast) were found sufficient to image fiducial markers and anatomy whilst accounting for the physical limits of the equipment. A single treatment and imaging isocentre was found by applying simple constraints: isocentre <8 cm from midline and isocentre–couch distance <30 cm. Contralateral breast doses were ∼2 mGy per scan (right breast) and ∼12 mGy (left breast). Both mean population systematic error and mean population random error were 3 mm prior to correction. The systematic error reduced to 1.5 mm using an eNAL correction protocol, implying that a 5-mm setup margin could be achieved.

Conclusion

An image-guided verification protocol using CBCT for breast cancer boost plans was implemented successfully. Setup errors were reduced with an acceptable imaging dose to the contralateral breast.
Competitive Strategy in Socially Entrepreneurial Nonprofit Organizations: Innovation and Differentiation
Authors: Weerawardena Jay , Mort Gillian Sullivan
Published: May 2012

Social entrepreneurship has attracted an increasing volume of research in an attempt to understand the basis of successful value creation aimed at solving social problems. In an effort to advance social entrepreneurship research beyond its current focus on conceptualizing the concept, this article addresses the role of innovation in achieving greater social impact. Using multiple theoretical case studies, this research finds that innovation-based competitive strategies of socially entrepreneurial nonprofit organizations substantially contribute to the achievement of social value. Innovation-based strategies are uniquely characterized by a primary focus on differentiation, with innovations directed at product, process, and system change levels. They tend to actively involve both externally and internally focused learning. Nonprofit organizations’ innovation strategies are strongly influenced by their organizational characteristics, in particular the need to build sustainable organizations. The article concludes with implications for theory and practice and directions for further research.
Sorption Properties of Cape Gooseberry (Physalis peruviana L.)
Authors: Cortés Farid B. , López Veronica , Rojano Benjamin A.
Published: May 2012

The sorption equilibrium of water for cape gooseberry at different temperatures (25, 35, 50 and 60°C) over a range of relative humidity levels, from 0.10 to 0.90, were determined using a gravimetric static method. The isosteric heat and Gibbs free energy were calculated from the sorption equilibrium. GAB, BET, SMITH, modified de Halsey, modified de Chung-Pfost, modified Oswin and modified Henderson models were tested to fit the experimental data. The GAB model was found to be the most suitable for describing the sorption curves. The monolayer moisture content values for the sorption at different temperatures were calculated using the BET model. The sorption curves show a Type III behavior. The isosteric heat decreased with increases in moisture content, while the Gibbs free energy increased.
Virtual Bazaar: A Means of Supporting Microtrade in the Least Developed Countries
Authors: Shirazi Fraid
Published: May 2012

This empirical study investigates the impacts of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), educational attainment, the rule of law and other determinantal variables on the growth of Gross Domestic Products (GDP) among 35 Least Developed Countries (LDCs) in Africa and Asia. The results of this empirical analysis on archival data from 1997 to 2007 show that while ICT expansion in LDCs has many positive impacts on GDP growth in these countries, the differences between countries in terms of the level of citizens’ educational attainment, the rule of law, governmental intervention in economic activities and the level of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) can both enhance and restrict the relationship between ICT and GDP growth. This study proposes an e-commerce model called Virtual Bazaar. The model is adapted to the existing level of ICT infrastructure in LDCs in order to enable the micro-trade owners to sell their products directly to potential customers across the globe, hence increasing their level of incomes.
Community-Based Microtrade in Support of Small-Scale Farmers in Thailand and Tanzania
Authors: Neef Andreas , Mizuno Kei , Schad Iven , Williams Pakakrong M. , Rwezimula Franklin
Published: May 2012

Drawing on two action-research projects conducted between 2007 and 2011, this paper compares the benefits of pro-poor microtrade arrangements for smallholder litchi growers in northern Thailand and small-scale vanilla growers in northwestern Tanzania. The case studies combine various qualitative and participatory research methods with an in-depth analysis of the underlying social, economic and knowledge networks. Theoretically, our research is grounded in the concept of strategic niche management, which emphasizes networking, experiential learning, and the convergence of expectations among producers, exporters, consumers and supporting agencies. Our findings suggest that community-based microtrade with high-value agricultural products can be particularly beneficial for small producers and marginalized groups, such as women and the elderly. Evidence from the comparative study of the two cases further underscores the importance of external knowledge and innovation intermediaries in the formation of community-based and pro-poor microtrade arrangements. We conclude that long-term knowledge and innovation partnerships need to be established to successfully connect smallholder farmers to international markets and to carefully balance the power differentials among all actors along the supply chain.
Microtrade and the Fair Trade Movement
Authors: Khumon Prapanpong
Published: May 2012

The present paper aims to illustrate an alternative trading regulation currently assumed by The Fair Trade Movement and a newly established concept of Microtrade in curving global poverty. The fair trade movement reflects microtrade activities by asserting voluntary initiatives to create mutual benefits between customers from the North and producers from the South. It has established a form of microtrading networks between impoverished producers and Northern importers/retailers oversaw by FLO (The Fair Trade Organization). While claiming to have achieved a certain level of poverty reduction, debate arises whether such appraisal renders a real impact. Both positive and negative feedbacks of the fair trade movement will be explored as well as its future proposal which aligns with microtrade activities.
International Microtrade Regime - Structure and Financing
Authors: Gupta Arpita
Published: May 2012

The conceptualization of a new form of trade, microtrade, is visualized to hold great promise in economic development of the producers belonging to LDCs and developing countries. In order to meet the goal of poverty reduction at a sustainable pace, the institutional, financial and logistical mechanisms for facilitating microtrade both at the international and national level needs to be built in a manner which ensures maximum efficiency. The paper deals with two fundamental aspects of development of microtrade. First, it delineates different aspects which would provide a strong substratum to the proposed microtrade regime. It explores the legal and institutional framework required for conduct of microtrade, which can be structured under the existing WTO regime and proposes necessary amendments to the WTO regime. Second, the paper explores financial aspects of the proposed microtrade regime. A case study of operation of micro-credit in the Indian scenario is undertaken in order to highlight the problems which have recently emerged in the microfinance sector. The scale of these problems has led the Indian government to propose a bill, regulating microfinance in India. Cue from this experience needs to be taken in order to move towards a foolproof system of financing microtrade at the local level.
A gestural account of the velar fricative in Navajo
Authors: Iskarous Khalil , McDonough Joyce , Whalen D. H.
Published: May 2012

Using the framework of Articulatory Phonology, we offer a phonological account of the allophonic variation undergone by the velar fricative phoneme in Navajo, a Southern or Apachean Athabaskan language spoken in Arizona and New Mexico. The Navajo velar fricative strongly co-articulates with the following vowel, varying in both place and manner of articulation. The variation in this velar fricative seems greater than the variation of velars in many well-studied languages. The coronal central fricatives in the inventory, in contrast, are quite phonetically stable. The back fricative of Navajo thus highlights 1) the linguistic use of an extreme form of coarticulation and 2) the mechanism by which languages can control coarticulation. It is argued that the task dynamic model underlying Articulatory Phonology, with the mechanism of gestural blending controlling coarticulation, can account for the multiplicity of linguistically-controlled ways in which velars coarticulate with surrounding vowels without requiring any changes of input specification due to context. The ability of phonological and morphological constraints to restrict the amount of coarticulation argues against strict separation of phonetics and phonology.
Tetraphenylpyridinium pertechnetate: a promising salt for the immobilization of technetium
Authors: Mausolf Edward , Droessler J. , Poineau Frédéric , Hartmann T. , Czerwinski Kenneth R.
Published: May 2012

In the context of the immobilization of technetium, as pertechnetate, from spent nuclear fuel from reprocessing activies, or potentially a scavenger for pertechnetate in repository conditions, the compound tetraphenylpyridinium pertechnetate (TPPy-TcO4) has been synthesized, structurally characterized and its solubility investigated. The compound TPPy-TcO4has been prepared by metathesis from ammonium pertechnetate and 1,2,4,6-tetraphenylpyridinium tetrafluoroborate from a water/acetone media. Diffraction measurements show that the compound crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group (Pbca) witha= 16.1242(10)Å,b= 16.7923(10)Å, andc= 17.6229(11)Å. The solubility of the salt has been investigated at room temperature in aqueous media at pH 2.22, 6.91, and 9.81 where solubility products were determined as 6.16 × 10−12, 4.13 × 10−12, and 1.16 × 10−11, respectively. The compound TPPy-TcO4is not the most insoluble pertechnetate salt reported so far, but comparatively has a lower solubility than that of most other pertechnetate salts.
The Yeast Ubr1 Ubiquitin Ligase Participates in a Prominent Pathway That Targets Cytosolic Thermosensitive Mutants for Degradation
Authors: Khosrow-Khavar Farzin , Fang Nancy N , Ng Alex H M , Winget Jason M , Comyn Sophie A , Mayor Thibault
Published: May 2012

Mutations causing protein misfolding and proteolysis are associated with many genetic diseases. The degradation of these aberrant proteins typically is mediated by protein-quality control pathways that recognize misfolded domains. Several E3 ubiquitin ligases have been shown to target cytosolic misfolded proteins to the proteasome. In this study, we characterized a panel of more than 20 cytosolic thermosensitive mutants from six essential genes in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. These wild-type proteins are stable at restrictive temperature. In contrast, we found that a large portion of the mutants is degraded at nonpermissive temperature in a proteasome-dependent manner. Approximately one-third of the assessed unstable mutants are targeted by the Ubr1 ubiquitin ligase. In two cases, efficient degradation of the thermosensitive mutants is abrogated in the absence of Ubr1 alone, whereas in a third case it is reliant on the dual deletion of Ubr1 and the nuclear E3 ligase San1. We found that the impairment of the degradation of these quality control substrates at the restrictive temperature is associated with the suppression of thermosensitive phenotype. This study confirms that Ubr1 plays an important role in the degradation of cytosolic misfolded proteins and indicates that degradation mediated by protein quality control is a major cause for the conditional lethality of mutated essential genes.