bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distribution and population structure of the alien Indo‐Pacific Randall's threadfin bream Nemipterus randalli in the eastern Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Stern N. , Levitt Y. , Galil B. S. , Diamant A. , Yokeş M. B. , Goren M.
Published: June 2014

As part of a comprehensive study of trawl fishery catch off Israel (Ashdod) and Turkey (Iskenderun and Antalya) conducted during 2008–2011, the population explosion of Nemipterus randalli, first recorded in the Mediterranean Sea in the beginning of 2005, was documented. The smallest individuals occurred on deeper bottoms (120 m), significantly more individuals were collected at night, and juvenile recruitment to the commercial fishery occurred during November and December at 40 m depth.
Photoperiodic growth enhancement in a tropical batch spawning atherinopsid, pike silverside Chirostoma estor
Authors: Martínez‐Chávez C. C. , Tello‐Ballinas A. , Fonseca‐Madrigal J. , Ross L. G. , Martínez‐Palacios C. A.
Published: June 2014

The effect of photoperiod on growth and survival in early life was determined in the tropical batch spawning atherinopsid, pike silverside Chirostoma estor. The results demonstrate high sensitivity of newly hatched C. estor to photoperiod treatments up to 90 days post hatch shown by improved growth in mass (43%) under continuous illumination. This is accompanied by increased fat deposition, which suggests a critical interaction between different photoperiod‐mediated mechanisms. A thorough understanding of these mechanisms can help to optimize the development of aquaculture of C. estor and similar species.
Cardiovascular disease biomarkers in patients with inborn errors of protein metabolism: a pilot study
Authors: Karam P. E. , Majdalani M. N. , Daher R. T. , Barhoumi A. , Yazbeck N.
Published: June 2014

Background

Limited data exist so far on cardiovascular disease biomarkers in patients maintained on a protein‐restricted diet for inborn errors of protein metabolism. The present study aimed to analyse plasma cholesterol, lipoproteins, triglycerides and total homocysteine in patients with various inborn errors of protein metabolism in comparison with healthy controls.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study of cardiovascular disease biomarkers was conducted in a cohort of patients with inborn errors of protein metabolism: nine phenylketonuria, nine urea cycle defect, six branched chain organic acidaemia and two tyrosinaemia type I patients compared to 30 healthy controls. All patients were on a strict natural protein diet for a mean (SD) period of 5.37 (2.30) years (range 2–9 years). Dietary assessment, plasma cholesterol, triglycerides, lipoproteins and total homocysteine levels were obtained.

Results

There were no significant differences in blood lipid studies and total homocysteine levels between patients and controls.

Conclusions

The results obtained in this pilot study suggest that cardiovascular disease biomarkers are not increased in patients with inborn errors of protein metabolism. This may be explained by the possible protective effect of a mono‐ and polyunsaturated fat rich Mediterranean diet. Additional studies with a larger number of patients are needed to confirm this finding.
Nutrition care‐related practices and factors affecting nutritional intakes in hospital patients at risk of pressure ulcers
Authors: Roberts S. , Chaboyer W. , Desbrow B.
Published: June 2014

Background

Malnutrition is common in hospitals and is a risk factor for pressure ulcers. Nutrition care practices relating to the identification and treatment of malnutrition have not been assessed in patients at risk of pressure ulcers. The present study describes nutrition care practices and factors affecting nutritional intakes in this patient group.

Methods

The study was conducted in four wards at two hospitals in Queensland, Australia. Adult patients at risk of pressure ulcers as a result of restricted mobility were observed for 24 h to determine their daily oral intake and practices such as nutrition screening, documentation and intervention. Independent samples t‐tests and chi‐squared tests were used to analyse dietary intake and nutrition care‐related data. Predictors of receiving a dietitian referral were identified using logistic regression analyses.

Results

Two hundred and forty‐one patients participated in the present study. The observed nutritional screening rate was 59% (142 patients). Weight and height were documented in 71% and 34% of cases. Sixty‐nine patients (29%) received a dietitian referral. Predictors of receiving a dietitian referral included lower body mass index and longer length of stay. On average, patients consumed 73% and 72% of the energy and protein provided, respectively. Between 22% and 38% of patients consumed <50% of food provided at main meals.

Conclusions

Nutrition care practices including malnutrition risk screening and documentation of nutritional parameters appear to be inadequate in patients at risk of pressure ulcers. A significant proportion of these patients eat inadequately at main meals, further increasing their risk of malnutrition and pressure ulcers.
Motor learning and long‐term plasticity of parallel fibre‐Purkinje cell synapses require post‐synaptic Cdk5/p35
Authors: Molnár Elek
Published: June 2014

Read the full article ‘Cdk5/p35 is required for motor coordination and cerebellar plasticity’ on page doi: 53.
Finite Element Analysis of the Influence of Geometry and Design of Zirconia Crowns on Stress Distribution
Authors: Anami Lilian Costa , Lima Julia Magalhaes da Costa , Corazza Pedro Henrique , Yamamoto Eron Toshio Colauto , Bottino Marco Antonio , Borges Alexandre Luiz Souto
Published: June 2014

Purpose

To evaluate the influence of the geometry and design of prosthetic crown preparations on stress distribution in compression tests, using finite element analysis (FEA).

Materials and Methods

Six combinations of 3D drawings of all‐ceramic crowns (yttria‐stabilized zirconia framework and porcelain veneer) were evaluated: F, flat preparation and simplified crown; FC, flat preparation and crown with contact point; FCM, flat preparation and modified crown; A, anatomical preparation and simplified anatomical crown framework; AC, anatomical preparation and crown with contact point; and ACM, anatomical preparation and modified crown. Bonded contact types at all interfaces with the mesh were assigned, and the material properties used were according to the literature. A 200 N vertical load was applied at the center of each model. The maximum principal stresses were quantitatively and qualitatively analyzed.

Results

The highest values of tensile stress were observed at the interface between the ceramics in the region under the load application for the simplified models (F and A). Reductions in stress values were observed for the model with the anatomical preparation and modified infrastructure (ACM). The stress distribution in the flat models was similar to that of their respective anatomical models.

Conclusions

The modified design of the zirconia coping reduces the stress concentration at the interface with the veneer ceramic, and the simplified preparation can exert a stress distribution similar to that of the anatomical preparation at and near the load point, when load is applied to the center of the crown.
Intrusion of Supraerupted Maxillary Molar Using a High Interim Restoration on the Defective Opposing Tooth: A Clinical Report
Authors: Tao Ye , Luo Xiao Ping , Bartlett David W.
Published: June 2014

Wear, extraction, or fracture of all or part of a mandibular first molar can lead to the supraeruption of the opposing maxillary molar, resulting in occlusal interference and lack of restoration space. This report describes a method to gain sufficient vertical space for permanent restoration. A direct composite resin restoration was placed on the occlusal surface of a lower molar, intentionally making the interim restoration high and intruding the maxillary molar. After 6 weeks, the extruded tooth returned to the desired position, and functional occlusion was restored, enabling a ceramic restoration on the mandibular molar. No marked adverse sensory reaction was reported in this therapeutic process, and no deleterious signs were detected in the teeth, periodontium, or temporomandibular joints. The simple treatment type was effective, noninvasive, and time saving, while also preserving maximum tooth structures.
ROBUST FITTING OF INARCH MODELS
Authors: Elsaied Hanan , Fried Roland
Published: June 2014

We discuss robust M‐estimation of INARCH models for count time series. These models assume the observation at each point in time to follow a Poisson distribution conditionally on the past, with the conditional mean being a linear function of previous observations. This simple linear structure allows us to transfer M‐estimators for autoregressive models to this situation, with some simplifications being possible because the conditional variance given the past equals the conditional mean. We investigate the performance of the resulting generalized M‐estimators using simulations. The usefulness of the proposed methods is illustrated by real data examples.
Clinical application of transient elastography in patients with chronic viral hepatitis receiving antiviral treatment
Authors: Kim Jun Hyung , Kim Mi Na , Han Kwang‐Hyub , Kim Seung Up
Published: June 2014

Accurate evaluation of the degree of liver fibrosis in patients with chronic liver diseases (CLD) is crucial, as liver fibrosis is important in determining the prognosis of liver diseases. Currently, liver biopsy (LB) is considered the gold standard for staging liver fibrosis or cirrhosis. However, utilization of LB in clinical practice is often limited because of its invasive nature, sampling error and interobserver variability. Recently, transient elastography (TE) was introduced as a noninvasive, highly reproducible technique for assessing the degree of liver fibrosis. After extensive studies, TE is now regarded as a reliable surrogate marker for grading the severity of liver fibrosis in patients with CLD. In the past few years, the role of TE in monitoring liver stiffness and determining prognosis in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) or chronic hepatitis C (CHC) who are undergoing antiviral treatment has been investigated. In patients with CHB, liver stiffness values decrease with antiviral treatment. TE can also be used to predict the incidence of liver‐related events during antiviral treatment. In patients with CHC, TE can be used to monitor potential regression of liver fibrosis after antiviral treatment and may predict the treatment outcome of CHC. In addition, TE is an adjunct tool for distinguishing inactive hepatitis B virus carriers from patients with chronic active hepatitis. This review article discusses the important findings from recent studies focusing on the clinical application of TE in patients with chronic viral hepatitis who are undergoing antiviral treatments.
Hepatitis E virus and fulminant hepatitis–a virus or host‐specific pathology?
Authors: Smith Donald B. , Simmonds Peter
Published: June 2014

Background & Aims

Fulminant hepatitis is a rare outcome of infection with hepatitis E virus. Several recent reports suggest that virus variation is an important determinant of disease progression. To critically examine the evidence that virus‐specific factors underlie the development of fulminant hepatitis following hepatitis E virus infection.

Methods

Published sequence information of hepatitis E virus isolates from patients with and without fulminant hepatitis was collected and analysed using statistical tests to identify associations between virus polymorphisms and disease outcome.

Results

Fulminant hepatitis has been reported following infection with all four hepatitis E virus genotypes that infect humans comprising multiple phylogenetic lineages within genotypes 1, 3 and 4. Analysis of virus sequences from individuals infected by a common source did not detect any common substitutions associated with progression to fulminant hepatitis. Re‐analysis of previously reported associations between virus substitutions and fulminant hepatitis suggests that these were probably the result of sampling biases.

Conclusions

Host‐specific factors rather than virus genotype, variants or specific substitutions appear to be responsible for the development of fulminant hepatitis.
Major Histocompatibility Complex class IIb polymorphism influences gut microbiota composition and diversity
Authors: Bolnick Daniel I. , Snowberg Lisa K. , Caporaso J. Gregory , Lauber Chris , Knight Rob , Stutz William E.
Published: June 2014

Animals harbour diverse communities of symbiotic bacteria, which differ dramatically among host individuals. This heterogeneity poses an immunological challenge: distinguishing between mutualistic and pathogenic members of diverse and host‐specific microbial communities. We propose that Major Histocompatibility class II (MHC) genotypes contribute to recognition and regulation of gut microbes, and thus, MHC polymorphism contributes to microbial variation among hosts. Here, we show that MHC IIb polymorphism is associated with among‐individual variation in gut microbiota within a single wild vertebrate population of a small fish, the threespine stickleback. We sampled stickleback from Cedar Lake, on Vancouver Island, and used next‐generation sequencing to genotype the sticklebacks’ gut microbiota (16S sequencing) and their MHC class IIb exon 2 sequences. The presence of certain MHC motifs was associated with altered relative abundance (increase or decrease) of some microbial Families. The effect sizes are modest and entail a minority of microbial taxa, but these results represent the first indication that MHC genotype may affect gut microbiota composition in natural populations (MHC‐microbe associations have also been found in a few studies of lab mice). Surprisingly, these MHC effects were frequently sex‐dependent. Finally, hosts with more diverse MHC motifs had less diverse gut microbiota. One implication is that MHC might influence the efficacy of therapeutic strategies to treat dysbiosis‐associated disease, including the outcome of microbial transplants between healthy and diseased patients. We also speculate that macroparasite‐driven selection on MHC has the potential to indirectly alter the host gut microbiota, and vice versa.
Effect of Resistance Training on Microvascular Density and eNOS Content in Skeletal Muscle of Sedentary Men
Authors: Cocks Matthew , Shaw Christopher S. , Shepherd Sam O. , Fisher James P. , Ranasinghe Aaron M. , Barker Thomas A. , Tipton Kevin D. , Wagenmakers Anton J. M.
Published: June 2014

Objective

The effects of RT on muscle mass, strength, and insulin sensitivity are well established, but the underlying mechanisms are only partially understood. The main aim of this study was to investigate whether RT induces changes in endothelial enzymes of the muscle microvasculature, which would increase NO bioavailability and could contribute to improved insulin sensitivity.

Methods

Eight previously sedentary males (age 20 ± 0.4 years, BMI 24.5 ± 0.9 kg/m2) completed six weeks of RT 3x/week. Muscle biopsies were taken from the m. vastus lateralis and microvascular density; and endothelial‐specific eNOS content, eNOS Ser1177 phosphorylation, and NOX2 content were assessed pre‐ and post‐RT using quantitative immunofluorescence microscopy. Whole‐body insulin sensitivity (measured as Matsuda Index), microvascular Kf (functional measure of the total available endothelial surface area), and arterial stiffness (AIx, central, and pPWV) were also measured.

Results

Measures of microvascular density, microvascular Kf, microvascular eNOS content, basal eNOS phosphorylation, and endothelial NOX2 content did not change from pre‐RT to post‐RT. RT increased insulin sensitivity (p < 0.05) and reduced resting blood pressure and AIx (p < 0.05), but did not change central or pPWV.

Conclusions

RT did not change any measure of muscle microvascular structure or function.
Substrate delivery by the AAA+ ClpX and ClpC1 unfoldases activates the mycobacterial ClpP1P2 peptidase
Authors: Schmitz Karl R. , Sauer Robert T.
Published: June 2014

Mycobacterial Clp‐family proteases function via collaboration of the heteromeric ClpP1P2 peptidase with a AAA+ partner, ClpX or ClpC1. These enzymes are essential for M. tuberculosis viability and are validated antibacterial drug targets, but the requirements for assembly and regulation of functional proteolytic complexes are poorly understood. Here, we report the reconstitution of protein degradation by mycobacterial Clp proteases in vitro and describe novel features of these enzymes that distinguish them from orthologues in other bacteria. Both ClpX and ClpC1 catalyse ATP‐dependent unfolding and degradation of native protein substrates in conjunction with ClpP1P2, but neither mediates protein degradation with just ClpP1 or ClpP2. ClpP1P2 alone has negligible peptidase activity, but is strongly stimulated by translocation of protein substrates into ClpP1P2 by either AAA+ partner. Interestingly, our results support a model in which both binding of a AAA+ partner and protein‐substrate delivery are required to stabilize active ClpP1P2. Our model has implications for therapeutically targeting ClpP1P2 in dormant M. tuberculosis, and our reconstituted systems should facilitate identification of novel Clp protease inhibitors and activators.
Field assessment of C‐POD performance in detecting echolocation click trains of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus)
Authors: Roberts Bethany L. , Read Andrew J.
Published: June 2014

We evaluated the performance of dolphin echolocation detectors (C‐PODs) in the New River, North Carolina, by ground‐truthing echolocation detections with digital acoustic recordings. We deployed C‐PODs at three sites for a total of 204 monitoring hours. We also performed detection range trials at two sites where water depths ranged from 1.0 to 4.5 m. We used Detection Positive Minutes (DPMs), minutes of C‐POD recordings that contained at least one echolocation click train, to indicate the presence of at least one dolphin. The C‐PODs performed well in detecting dolphin click trains, although all units performed conservatively by failing to detect some echolocation events and therefore underestimated the true occurrence of dolphins. C‐PODs reported only a small number of false detections, as indicated by low false positive rates ranging between 1% and 4% for individual units. Overall, C‐PODs performed with a high accuracy (72%–91%) and detected echolocation at a distance of at least 933 m. We conclude that C‐PODs hold considerable promise in future monitoring studies of this species, but recommend a careful study design especially in complex, coastal environments.
Suitability of carbon isotope discrimination, ash content and single mineral concentration for the selection of drought‐tolerant winter rye
Authors: Kottmann Lorenz , Schittenhelm Siegfried , Giesemann Anette
Published: June 2014

Carbon isotope discrimination (∆) has been proposed as selection criterion for grain yield under dry conditions, and ash content (ma) and mineral concentration were suggested as surrogates for ∆. In this study, the relationship between grain yield, ∆, ma and mineral concentration (Si, Ca, K, Mg) was examined in 2011 and 2012 on 16 winter rye genotypes grown under severe drought, mild drought (2012 only) and well‐watered conditions. Analyses were performed on mature flag leaves and grains. Highly significant differences between water regimes occurred for all measured traits. ∆, ma and mineral concentrations were significantly correlated with grain yield under severe drought in 2011, but not in 2012 except for ∆ in flag leaf. ∆ was related to ma and mineral concentrations. Although the correlations were quite inconsistent, the results indicate that the measured traits can potentially be used as selection criterion for drought tolerance in rye. For a final statement about the suitability of these traits in rye breeding, the results should be secured with a larger and more diverse set of genotypes.
Efficiency Determinants and Capacity Issues in Angolan Insurance Companies
Authors: Barros Carlos Pestana , Dumbo Silvestre , Wanke Peter
Published: June 2014

This paper describes a variety of approaches used to assess the efficiency of a sample of major insurance companies in Angola between 2003 and 2012. Starting out with the bootstrapping technique, several data envelopment analysis (DEA) estimates were generated, allowing the use of confidence intervals and bias correction in central estimates to test for significant differences in efficiency levels and input‐decreasing/output‐increasing potentials. Previous studies have focused on the measurement and explanation of the factors affecting the performance rather than the prediction. The use of neural networks combined with DEA results as part of an attempt to produce a model for insurance companies’ performance with effective predictive ability is investigated. The findings indicate that older insurance companies with Portuguese origin tend to be more efficient. Results also suggest that opportunities for accommodating future demand appear to be scarce.
Undergoing an immunization is effortlessly, manageable or difficult according to five‐year‐old children
Authors: Harder Maria , Christensson Kyllike , Söderbäck Maja
Published: June 2014

Background

To prevent diseases among children they regularly undergo immunizations. Previous research show different approaches available to facilitate immunization‐procedures for children to protect them from harm. To complement this research and provide care suited for children, research recognizing their perceptions of undergoing such a procedure is needed.

Aim

The aim of this study was to describe 5‐year‐old children's perceptions of undergoing an immunization.

Method

A phenomenographic approach and analysis was used to describe the children's (n = 21) various perceptions. The data‐collection was accomplished directly after the immunization to grasp the children's immediate perceptions. Drawings and reflective talks were used as they are considered as suitable methods when involving young children in research. The right to conduct research with children was approved by the appropriate research ethics committee and also by each child and the parents.

Results

The findings show that children's perceptions of an immunization‐procedure may vary from effortlessly, to manageable or difficult. Regardless of how the child perceive the immunization‐procedure each perception embrace the children's descriptions of actors and articles in the situation, their feelings in the situation and also their actions to deal with the immunization. Nevertheless, these descriptions vary according to how the children perceive the immunization as effortlessly, manageable or difficult.

Conclusion

Children's and adults' perceptions of medical procedures may differ and children need guidance, time and space to deal with them. Recognizing children's perceptions of undergoing an immunization contributes to the promotion of their right to be involved in their own health care and towards the development of child‐centred care.
Increases in beta‐lipoproteins in hyperlipidemic and dyslipidemic dogs are associated with increased erythrocyte osmotic fragility
Authors: Behling‐Kelly Erica , Collins‐Cronkright Rebekah
Published: June 2014

Background

The capacity of RBCs to traverse endothelium and deliver oxygen to tissues is dependent on a mechanically stable yet flexible plasma membrane. The lipid composition of the RBC membrane is crucial in maintaining its structure and fluidity. Lacking a nucleus and having minimal synthetic capacity, RBCs are exquisitely sensitive to changes in plasma lipids.

Objective

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of plasma lipids on RBC fragility in hyperlipidemic and dyslipidemic dogs.

Methods

Osmotic fragility of RBCs, plasma lipoprotein fractions, and cholesterol and phospholipid content of RBC membranes were measured in hyperlipidemic, dyslipidemic, and healthy control dogs. Osmotic fragility of normal canine RBCs incubated in phosphate‐buffered saline and in both intact and lipid‐depleted plasma from diabetic dogs was also measured.

Results

RBCs from hyperlipidemic and dyslipidemic dogs with diabetes mellitus and dogs treated with glucocorticoids were significantly more fragile than RBCs from healthy control dogs. RBCs from hyperlipidemic dogs with cholestatic disease tended to be more stable relative to RBCs from controls. RBC osmotic fragility was positively correlated with beta‐lipoprotein levels, but was only weakly correlated with serum cholesterol concentration. Incubation in plasma from hyperlipidemic diabetic dogs rendered RBCs from healthy dogs osmotically fragile, whereas lipid‐depleted plasma from the same diabetic dogs had no effect.

Conclusions

RBCs from hyperlipidemic and dyslipidemic dogs are osmotically fragile, and fragility is highly correlated with increases in beta‐lipoproteins. Future studies are planned to address the consequences of lipid‐induced fragility and subclinical hemolysis on endothelial cells, platelets, and coagulation.
Development and analytical validation of an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay for the measurement of feline tumor necrosis factor α in serum
Authors: Steiner Joerg M. , Xenoulis Panagiotis G. , Schwierk Viktoria M. , Suchodolski Jan S.
Published: June 2014

Background

The role of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α), a cytokine shown to play a crucial role in human Crohn's disease patients, has not been documented in cats with chronic enteropathies. Also, currently, no validated assay for measurement of TNF‐α in cats is available.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to develop and analytically validate an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the quantification of TNF‐α in serum from cats.

Methods

A sandwich ELISA was developed and analytically validated by assessment of detection limit, linearity, accuracy, precision, and reproducibility. A control range for serum fTNF‐α concentration in healthy cats was established. In addition, serum concentrations of fTNF‐α in 39 cats with chronic enteropathies were compared with those in 20 healthy cats.

Results

The detection limit of the assay was 38.4 ng/L. Observed‐to‐expected ratios for serial dilutions of 4 serum samples ranged from 75.1% to 111.9%. Observed‐to‐expected ratios for spiking recovery for 4 serum samples ranged from 91.3% to 129.7%. Coefficients of variation for intra‐ and inter‐assay variability ranged from 3.9% to 7.6% and from 7.8% to 12.5%, respectively. The control range of the assay was < 38.4–223.5 ng/L. Serum concentrations of feline TNF‐α were significantly higher in cats with chronic enteropathies and diarrhea than in cats with chronic enteropathies without diarrhea, or in healthy control cats.

Conclusions

The ELISA described here was suitable for the quantification of fTNF‐α in feline serum and should facilitate research into the importance of TNF‐α in cats with chronic enteropathies.
Serum autoantibody profiles of IgA, IgE and IgM in canine pemphigus foliaceus
Authors: Bizikova Petra , Olivry Thierry , Mamo Lisa B. , Dunston Stanley M.
Published: June 2014

Background

Pemphigus foliaceus (PF) is the most common IgG‐mediated autoimmune skin disease in dogs. Studies of human PF have revealed the presence of other antigen‐specific autoantibody isotypes, thereby uncovering new avenues of investigation of the disease pathomechanism.

Hypothesis/Objectives

The aim was to obtain information about the autoantibody isotype response in canine PF.

Methods

Sera from 34 dogs with PF were tested for the presence of antikeratinocyte, anti‐desmocollin‐1 and anti‐desmoglein‐1 IgA, IgE and IgM using indirect immunofluorescence.

Results

Using our indirect immunofluorescence technique, IgA, IgE and IgM autoreactivities were detected in six, one and zero of 34 sera from PF‐affected dogs, respectively. Two of the six IgA‐positive sera contained antikeratinocyte and anti‐desmocollin‐1 IgA, while the four remaining sera tested positive either for antikeratinocyte IgA (two of six) or for anti‐desmocollin‐1 IgA (two of six). A single serum contained anti‐desmocollin‐1 IgE. None of the six sera from healthy dogs contained detectable IgA, IgE or IgM autoantibodies.

Conclusions and clinical importance

Our findings suggest that sera from dogs with PF rarely contain IgA or IgE autoantibodies at levels detectable by indirect immunofluorescence, while IgM autoreactivity appears not to be a feature of this disease. Considering these findings, it appears that canine PF is aetiologically and immunologically similar to that of the classic human PF, in which the IgG autoantibody response is also the predominant type.
Platelet storage media
Authors: Gulliksson H.
Published: June 2014

Present platelet storage media often designated platelet additive solutions (PAS) basically contain acetate, citrate and phosphate and recently also potassium and magnesium. However, there seems to be an increasing interest in developing PASs that can be used also after further reduction of residual plasma content below 15–20% plasma. Inclusion of glucose but also calcium and bicarbonate in such solutions have been suggested to improve platelet (PLT) storage, especially when plasma content is reduced to very low levels. Results from a limited number of studies using novel PAS alternatives have been presented during the last years, such as InterSol‐G, PAS‐5, M‐sol, PAS‐G and SAS. Most of them are experimental solutions. The combined results presented in those studies suggest that presence of glucose may be necessary during PLT storage, primarily to maintain ATP at acceptable levels. At plasma inclusion below 15–20%, the content of glucose will generally be too low to support PLT metabolism for more than a few days making glucose addition in PAS necessary. Significant effects associated with presence of calcium was observed in PLTs stored in PAS with 5% inclusion but not with 20–35% plasma inclusion, suggesting that the content of plasma could be of importance. Bicarbonate only seems to be of importance for pH regulation, primarily when plasma inclusion is reduced to about 5%. Reduction in rate of glycolysis was observed in some PAS alternatives containing potassium and magnesium but not in others. Differences in pH or in concentrations of the various compounds included in PAS may be possible explanations. Additionally, novel PAS containing glucose, calcium and bicarbonate does not seem to be associated with improved in vitro results as compared to SSP+ or CompoSol when PLTs are stored with 35% plasma inclusion. The results would then also suggest that excess of glucose in novel PAS environment may not be associated with additional positive effects on PLT metabolism. This review is based on the few publications on novel PAS available, and additional studies would be needed in the future.
Development of a mitochondrial DNA real‐time polymerase chain reaction assay for quality control of pathogen reduction with riboflavin and ultraviolet light
Authors: Bakkour S. , Chafets D. M. , Wen L. , van der Meer P. F. , Mundt J. M. , Marschner S. , Goodrich R. P. , Busch M. P. , Lee T.‐H.
Published: June 2014

Background and Objectives

Transfusion is associated with a risk of infection and alloimmunization. Pathogen reduction using riboflavin and UV light (Mirasol treatment) inactivates pathogens and leucocytes. With increasing adoption of the technology in clinical use, regulatory agencies have recommended the introduction of quality control measures to monitor pathogen reduction efficacy. We sought to develop a real‐time PCR‐based assay to document the impact of pathogen reduction on the mitochondrial genome in blood components.

Materials and Methods

DNA was extracted from platelet and plasma components before and after treatment with riboflavin and UV light. Inhibition of PCR amplification of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in short‐ and long‐amplicon target regions, ranging from under 200 base pairs (bp) to over 1800 bp, was measured in treated relative to untreated components.

Results

Pathogen reduction of platelets using riboflavin and UV light resulted in inhibition of PCR amplification of long‐amplicon mtDNA targets, demonstrating approximately 1 log reduction of amplification relative to untreated products. Amplification of short‐amplicon mtDNA targets was not affected by treatment. Evaluation of 110 blinded platelet samples from the PREPAReS clinical trial resulted in prediction of treatment status with 100% accuracy. Pathogen reduction of plasma components resulted in similar levels of PCR inhibition, while testing of 30 blinded plasma samples resulted in prediction of treatment status with 93% accuracy.

Conclusion

A differential sized amplicon real‐time PCR assay of mitochondrial DNA effectively documents nucleic acid damage induced by Mirasol treatment of platelets. The use of the assay for plasma product pathogen reduction requires further investigation.
Hysteresis-free high rate reactive sputtering of niobium oxide, tantalum oxide, and aluminum oxide
Authors: Särhammar Erik , Berg Sören , Nyberg Tomas
Published: June 2014

This work reports on experimental studies of reactive sputtering from targets consisting of a metal and its oxide. The composition of the targets varied from pure metal to pure oxide of Al, Ta, and Nb. This combines features from both the metal target and oxide target in reactive sputtering. If a certain relation between the metal and oxide parts is chosen, it may be possible to obtain a high deposition rate, due to the metal part, and a hysteresis-free process, due to the oxide part. The aim of this work is to quantify the achievable boost in oxide deposition rate from a hysteresis-free process by using a target consisting of segments of a metal and its oxide. Such an increase has been previously demonstrated for Ti using a homogeneous substoichiometric target. The achievable gain in deposition rate depends on transformation mechanisms from oxide to suboxides due to preferential sputtering of oxygen. Such mechanisms are different for different materials and the achievable gain is therefore material dependent. For the investigated materials, the authors have demonstrated oxide deposition rates that are 1.5–10 times higher than what is possible from metal targets in compound mode. However, although the principle is demonstrated for oxides of Al, Ta, and Nb, a similar behavior is expected for most oxides.
The Effect of Hip Abductor Muscle Fatigue on Frontal Plane Knee Projection Angle During Step Landing
Authors: Herrington Lee
Published: June 2014

Context:

A number of acute and overuse knee pathologies share a mechanism involving a poor dynamic alignment of the limb creating increased stress in the tissues. Inappropriate execution of a correct strategy during landing has been suggested to involve insufficient activity of the hip abductor and external rotator muscles. Limited data describing the relationships between hip-abductor muscle fatigue and hip/knee joint mechanics exists.

Objective:

To investigate the effect of fatigue of the hip abductor muscles on knee valgus angle.

Design:

Repeated measures.

Participants:

30 asymptomatic subjects: 15 female (age 20.4 ± 1.4, range 18–26 years; height 1.66 m, range 1.60–1.76 m; weight 63.9 kg, range 58–68 kg) and 15 male subjects (age 22 ± 3.2, range 18–28 years; height 1.84 m, range 1.65–1.90 m; weight 82.1 kg, range 69–93 kg).

Main outcome Measures:

Knee valgus (frontal plane projection) angle was assessed during a step landing task before and following a fatiguing protocol of the hip abductor muscles involving repeated 10 s maximal isometric contractions of the hip abductor muscles, until strength was recorded as 50% of preintervention score.

Results:

Males showed no significant change in knee valgus angle at initial ground contact (p = .9 ES 0.1) or in maximum knee valgus (p = .64 ES 0.5) following the fatiguing. Females showed a significant increase in maximum knee valgus angle following the fatiguing (p = .0018 ES 1.0), though the knee valgus angle at initial contact was not changed (p = .12 ES 0.67). They also demonstrated a significant increase in the change in knee valgus angle between initial contact and maximum following the fatiguing (p = .0004 ES 0.88).

Conclusion:

Females appear more susceptible to the effects of hip muscle fatigue, leading to a detrimental change in landing kinematics which may then predispose them to knee injury.
The Effect of Trial Duration on Single-Limb Stance Postural Control Measures
Authors: Powden Cameron , Hoch Matthew
Published: June 2014

Context:

Currently, there are limited guidelines for the trial duration of quiet single-limb postural control tests. However, trial duration may influence the results of postural control assessments.

Objective:

To examine the effect of trial duration on instrumented measures of postural control in healthy adults.

Design:

Cross-sectional.

Setting:

Laboratory.

Patients or Other Participants:

Ten healthy adults (eight females, two males; age = 22.1 ± 1.5 years; 167.4 ± 9.3 cm; 67.4 ± 12.3 kg).

Interventions:

Static postural control was assessed using quiet single-limb stance on a force plate. With eyes open and closed, participants stood barefoot on one limb. Instructions were stand with hands on hips and remain as motionless as possible. A practice trial was performed before the collection of three 10 s trials on each limb for each visual condition. The data collected during each trial were analyzed as the initial 2.5 s, the initial 5 s, and 10 s.

Main outcome Measures:

The independent variables included vision, limb, and trial duration. The dependent variables included postural control examined using time-to-boundary (TTB) variables: mean of TTB minima (TTB-M) and the standard deviation of TTB minima (TTB-SD) in the anterior-posterior (AP) and medial-lateral (ML) directions.

Results:

No significant 3-way or 2-way interactions or limb main effects were identified. Main effects were identified for vision and trial duration in all TTB variables. Post hoc analysis revealed significant differences between all trial durations in all TTB variables.

conclusions:

Greater TTB values were exhibited during the 10 s trial durations compared with 5 s and 2.5 s, and 5 s trial durations compared with 2.5 s, indicating postural control improved with longer trial durations. This suggests differing aspects of postural control may be examined with different trial durations.
Genome Sequence of
Streptomyces olindensis
DAUFPE 5622, Producer of the Antitumoral Anthracycline Cosmomycin D
Authors: Rojas Juan D. , Starcevic Antonio , Baranas̆ić Damir , Ferreira-Torres Maria A. , Contreras Camilo A. , Garrido Leandro M. , Araújo Welington L. , de Souza Robson F. , Zucko Jurica , Hranueli Daslav , Long Paul F. , Cullum John , Padilla Gabriel
Published: June 2014

Streptomyces olindensis
DAUFPE 5622, which was isolated from a Brazilian soil sample, produces the antitumor anthracycline cosmomycin D. The genome sequence is 9.4 Mb in length, with a G+C content of 71%. Thirty-four putative secondary metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters were identified, including the cosmomycin D cluster.
Draft Genome Sequence of Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli Strain W25K
Authors: Ren Wenkai , Liu Gang , Yin Jie , Chen Shuai , Li Tiejun , Kong Xiangfeng , Peng Yuanyi , Yin Yulong , Hardwidge Philip R.
Published: June 2014

Enterotoxigenic
Escherichia coli
(ETEC) is a major cause of diarrheal disease in humans and newly weaned pigs. Here, we report the draft genome sequence of ETEC strain W25K, which causes diarrhea in piglets.
Draft Genome Sequence of Kozakia baliensis SR-745, the First Sequenced
Kozakia
Strain from the Family
Acetobacteraceae
Authors: Schmid Jochen , Koenig Steven , Pick André , Steffler Fabian , Yoshida Shosuke , Miyamoto Kenji , Sieber Volker
Published: June 2014

Kozakia baliensis
belongs to the family
Acetobacteraceae
and was described for the first time in 2002. These acetic acid bacteria are able to produce acetic acid from various carbon sources and 2- and 5-keto-
d
-gluconate from glucose. The novel
K. baliensis
strain SR-745 was isolated from a pineapple fruit bought in a German supermarket. The strain produces large amounts of organic acids when grown on glucose-containing medium and accepts also glycerol, fructose, mannitol, and sucrose as a C source. When grown under light and high-oxygen conditions in submerged culture, the production of a pink pigment is observed after 72 h.
Draft Genome Sequence of Entomopathogenic Serratia liquefaciens Strain FK01
Authors: Taira Erika , Iiyama Kazuhiro , Mon Hiroaki , Mori Kazuki , Akasaka Taiki , Tashiro Kousuke , Yasunaga-Aoki Chisa , Lee Jae Man , Kusakabe Takahiro
Published: June 2014

In the present study, we determined the draft genome sequence of the entomopathogenic bacterium
Serratia liquefaciens
FK01, which is highly virulent to the silkworm. The draft genome is ~5.28 Mb in size, and the G+C content is 55.8%.
Complete Genome Sequences of Two Prolific Biofilm-Forming Staphylococcus aureus Isolates Belonging to USA300 and EMRSA-15 Clonal Lineages
Authors: Sabirova J. S. , Xavier B. B. , Hernalsteens J.-P. , De Greve H. , Ieven M. , Goossens H. , Malhotra-Kumar S.
Published: June 2014

Methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA) causes serious infections that are even more difficult to treat when associated with a biofilm phenotype that facilitates evasion of the host immune system and antibiotics. As a first step toward understanding the mechanisms underlying biofilm formation, we sequenced the genomes of two prolific biofilm-forming strains belonging to the two most important globally disseminated clonal lineages, USA300 and EMRSA-15.
Genome Sequence of Thermophilic Bacillus licheniformis Strain 3F-3, an Efficient Pentose-Utilizing Producer of 2,3-Butanediol
Authors: Li Lixiang , Wang Yu , Wang Kai , Li Kun , Ma Cuiqing , Xu Ping
Published: June 2014

Bacillus licheniformis
strain 3F-3 is an efficient pentose-utilizing producer of platform chemical, 2,3-butanediol. Here we present a 4.1-Mb assembly of its genome. The key genes for pentose utilization, regulation, and metabolism of 2,3-butanediol were annotated, which may provide further insights into the molecular mechanism of 2,3-butanediol production from biomass pentose.
Psoriasis induced by thalidomide in a patient with multiple myeloma
Authors: Ferrazzi Anna , Zambello Renato , Russo Irene , Alaibac Mauro
Published: June 2014

A 54-year-old woman developed psoriasis on the plantar surface of her feet after 2 weeks of thalidomide 100 mg daily for the treatment of multiple IgG myeloma. She did not have any previous history of psoriasis. Thalidomide was immediately stopped and topical treatment with calcipotriol ointment and β-methasone valerate was started. Psoriasis disappeared completely after 2 weeks of topical therapy. This is the first case of de novo psoriasis in a patient with multiple myeloma under treatment with thalidomide. Our observation provides further evidence of the potential paradoxical effect of thalidomide on tumour necrosis factor-α production.
An unusual presentation of thoracoacromial artery pseudoaneurysm following shoulder arthroplasty
Authors: Wright Anna Elizabeth , Wall Michael , Slaney Penny , Downing Richard
Published: June 2014

Pseudoaneurysms of peripheral arteries are not an uncommon condition presenting to vascular surgeons. Perioperative injury and infection are two of the commonest causes. We describe a case of an 82-year-old lady, who presented 10 years following right shoulder joint replacement, with a sharply marginated erythematous cutaneous eruption over the right shoulder. Subsequent angiography revealed a pseudoaneurysm of the acromial branch of the thoracoacromial artery. Planned intervention was superseded by a further embolic episode, which prompted immediate percutaneous translumninal embolisation of the aneurysm. The aetiology of a pseudoaneurysm 10 years following shoulder arthroplasty is discussed.
Soft tissue injury of the lower extremity complicated by type II necrotising fasciitis highlighting the need for astute clinical practices and proper treatment
Authors: Sabre Alexander , Robles Carlos G , Krisar-White Patricia , Farricielli Laurie
Published: June 2014

Necrotising fasciitis (NF) is a soft tissue bacterial-derived infection characterised clinically by fulminant tissue destruction of the poorly blood-supplied muscle fascia and overlying subcutaneous fat. Although these infections first appear as minor superficial manifestations, they are capricious in nature and often lead to sepsis, organ failure and high mortality. We report a case of type II necrotising fasciitis in a 39-year-old Caucasian female patient who presented to the emergency department with cellulitis of her right foot and lower leg that rapidly developed into tissue necrosis. The patient course is of unique interest due to progressive history over a 104 days time frame with complications following surgical treatments and outpatient follow-up. We highlight the importance of early detection and pertinent clinical awareness from a wide range of medical specialties that were involved in this case, and how this process is critical, in order to properly diagnose and treat NF-derived tissue infections.
Scaling up integrated prevention campaigns for global health: costs and cost-effectiveness in 70 countries
Authors: Marseille Elliot , Jiwani Aliya , Raut Abhishek , Verguet Stéphane , Walson Judd , Kahn James G
Published: June 2014

Objective

This study estimated the health impact, cost and cost-effectiveness of an integrated prevention campaign (IPC) focused on diarrhoea, malaria and HIV in 70 countries ranked by per capita disability-adjusted life-year (DALY) burden for the three diseases.

Methods

We constructed a deterministic cost-effectiveness model portraying an IPC combining counselling and testing, cotrimoxazole prophylaxis, referral to treatment and condom distribution for HIV prevention; bed nets for malaria prevention; and provision of household water filters for diarrhoea prevention. We developed a mix of empirical and modelled cost and health impact estimates applied to all 70 countries. One-way, multiway and scenario sensitivity analyses were conducted to document the strength of our findings. We used a healthcare payer's perspective, discounted costs and DALYs at 3% per year and denominated cost in 2012 US dollars.

Primary and secondary outcomes

The primary outcome was cost-effectiveness expressed as net cost per DALY averted. Other outcomes included cost of the IPC; net IPC costs adjusted for averted and additional medical costs and DALYs averted.

Results

Implementation of the IPC in the 10 most cost-effective countries at 15% population coverage would cost US$583 million over 3 years (adjusted costs of US$398 million), averting 8.0 million DALYs. Extending IPC programmes to all 70 of the identified high-burden countries at 15% coverage would cost an adjusted US$51.3 billion and avert 78.7 million DALYs. Incremental cost-effectiveness ranged from US$49 per DALY averted for the 10 countries with the most favourable cost-effectiveness to US$119, US$181, US$335, US$1692 and US$8340 per DALY averted as each successive group of 10 countries is added ordered by decreasing cost-effectiveness.

Conclusions

IPC appears cost-effective in many settings, and has the potential to substantially reduce the burden of disease in resource-poor countries. This study increases confidence that IPC can be an important new approach for enhancing global health.