bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recession Response: Cyclical Problems and Local Solutions in Northern British Columbia
Authors: Manson Don , Markey Sean , Ryser Laura , Halseth Greg
Published: July 2015

The purpose of this paper is to trace community and regional responses to the economic downturn of 2008/2009 in Northern British Columbia, Canada. Our research during this period (2009–2011), the Northern Economic Vision II (NEV II) project, sought to investigate whether communities in the region were incorporating some of the core findings, lessons from an earlier project, the NEV I project (conducted in 2002–2005), in terms of preparing for both economic uncertainty and opportunity through place‐oriented community planning and enhanced regional collaboration. Findings suggest that in the face of economic hardship, many communities continued to pursue community and regionally‐oriented strategies in an attempt to preserve services and quality of life for local residents, and did not engage in reactive budget cuts in the face of economic decline, as experienced in previous bust periods.
Retromer Ensures the Degradation of Autophagic Cargo by Maintaining Lysosome Function in Drosophila
Authors: Maruzs Tamás , Lőrincz Péter , Szatmári Zsuzsanna , Széplaki Szilvia , Sándor Zoltán , Lakatos Zsolt , Puska Gina , Juhász Gábor , Sass Miklós
Published: July 2015

The retromer is an evolutionarily conserved coat complex that consists of Vps26, Vps29, Vps35 and a heterodimer of sorting nexin (Snx) proteins in yeast. Retromer mediates the recycling of transmembrane proteins from endosomes to the trans‐Golgi network, including receptors that are essential for the delivery of hydrolytic enzymes to lysosomes. Besides its function in lysosomal enzyme receptor recycling, involvement of retromer has also been proposed in a variety of vesicular trafficking events, including early steps of autophagy and endocytosis. Here we show that the late stages of autophagy and endocytosis are impaired in Vps26 and Vps35 deficient Drosophila larval fat body cells, but formation of autophagosomes and endosomes is not compromised. Accumulation of aberrant autolysosomes and amphisomes in the absence of retromer function appears to be the consequence of decreased degradative capacity, as they contain undigested cytoplasmic material. Accordingly, we show that retromer is required for proper cathepsin L trafficking mainly independent of LERP, the Drosophila homolog of the cation‐independent mannose 6‐phosphate receptor. Finally, we find that Snx3 and Snx6 are also required for proper autolysosomal degradation in Drosophila larval fat body cells.
A multicenter validation of recombinant β3 integrin–coupled beads to detect human platelet antigen‐1 alloantibodies in 498 cases of fetomaternal alloimmune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Chong Winnie , Turro Ernest , Metcalfe Paul , Yusuf Rizwan , Mérieux Yves , Rigal Dominique , Porcelijn Leendert , Huiskes Elly , Lucas Geoff , Bendukidze Nina , Green Ann , Fontão‐Wendel Rita , Husebekk Anne , Dixey Jonathan , Guest Alan , Mushens Rosey , Ouwehand Willem H. , Navarrete Cristina V.
Published: July 2015

BACKGROUND

Fetomaternal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (FMAIT) is caused by human platelet (PLT) antigen (HPA) incompatibility. Beads coupled with recombinant β3 integrins, displaying the biallelic HPA‐1 epitopes (rHPA‐1), have been shown to detect HPA‐1a alloantibodies implicated in FMAIT. This report describes a multicenter validation of the beads using the results of well‐characterized samples to define the optimum parameters for analysis of a large cohort of 498 clinical samples.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Fifty‐one blinded quality assurance (QA) samples were tested by six laboratories to standardize the rHPA‐1 bead assay and to develop an algorithm for sample classification. Five laboratories retrieved samples from 498 independent FMAIT cases, previously tested by the monoclonal antibody‐specific immobilization of PLT antigens (MAIPA) assay, from their local archives for testing with the rHPA‐1 beads. The results were evaluated using a mathematical algorithm developed to classify the samples.

RESULTS

The QA samples gave a mean concordance of 94% between the bead and MAIPA assays, while 97% concordance was observed with the FMAIT samples. Of the 15 discrepant samples, seven were positive by the beads but negative by MAIPA, while the contrary was observed for eight samples. Overall, the bead assay achieved 98% sensitivity for HPA‐1a antibody detection in FMAIT and 98.7% specificity compared to the local MAIPA.

CONCLUSION

The rHPA‐1 bead assay is a rapid 3‐hour assay for the sensitive detection of HPA‐1 antibodies. Its ease of use would enable prompt detection of maternal HPA‐1a antibodies in suspected FMAIT cases, which is important supportive evidence for treatment by transfusion with HPA‐1b1b PLTs.
RHCE*ceAG (254C>G, Ala85Gly) is prevalent in blacks, encodes a partial ce‐phenotype, and is associated with discordant RHD zygosity
Authors: Westhoff Connie M. , Vege Sunitha , Hipsky Christine Halter , Horn Trina , Hue‐Roye Kim , Keller Jessica , Velliquette Randall , Lomas‐Francis Christine , Chou Stella T. , Reid Marion E.
Published: July 2015

BACKGROUND

RHCE*ceAG has the nucleotide change c.254C>G, which encodes p.Ala85Gly associated with altered expression of e antigen. We analyzed serologic and DNA‐based testing data on samples with RHCE*ceAG to determine its effect on antigen expression, linkage with RHD, and its prevalence in African Americans.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Serologic testing was performed by standard methods. Genomic DNA was used for polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism, RH‐specific exon sequencing, and RHD zygosity, and Rh‐cDNA was sequenced. Samples from 32 individuals referred for serologic problems, 57 patients with sickle cell disease, and 44 donors positive for c.254C>G were investigated. Allele prevalence was determined in random African Americans.

RESULTS

Red blood cells from samples homozygous RHCE*ceAG/ceAG or in trans to RHCE*cE reacted variably with anti‐e reagents and 17 samples from the 32 referred patients had alloanti‐e in their plasma. The majority of samples with RHCE*ceAG, when tested for RHD zygosity gave discordant results between PstI‐RFLP and hybrid box assay. Rare samples with 254C>G had additional allelic changes: one with c.697G (p.233Glu), three with c.733G, 941C (p.245Val, 314Ala), and two with c.307T (p.103Ser) encoding robust C antigen expression in the absence of other C‐specific nucleotides. A total of 101 samples with RHCE*ceAG were encountered in 1159 randomly selected African Americans.

CONCLUSIONS

RHCE*ceAG (c.254G, p.85Gly) encodes a partial phenotype and the absence of the high‐prevalence antigen RH59 (CEAG). The allele was present in one in 11 African Americans and is most often in cis to a RHD deletion associated with discordant RHD zygosity. To further determine clinical significance, detection of this allele should be part of routine RHCE genotyping in this population.
Type of plasma preparation used for plasma exchange and clinical outcome of adult patients with acquired idiopathic thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: a French retrospective multicenter cohort study
Authors: Toussaint‐Hacquard Marie , Coppo Paul , Soudant Marc , Chevreux Lysiane , Mathieu‐Nafissi Suzanne , Lecompte Thomas , Gross Sylvie , Guillemin Francis , Schneider Thierry
Published: July 2015

BACKGROUND

Plasma exchange (PE) is the first‐line therapy of acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). Several plasma preparations have been available; their equivalence in terms of outcome remains uncertain.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of the cases prospectively reported from 2005 to 2010 to the national registry established by the thrombotic microangiopathies French reference center. We analyzed 108 initial episodes of acquired idiopathic TTP in adults treated with PE, 81 with solvent/detergent (S/D) plasma, and 27 with quarantine fresh‐frozen plasma (qFFP). The primary endpoint was the time to platelet (PLT) count recovery.

RESULTS

Time to PLT count recovery was not significantly different with S/D plasma versus qFFP (median, 15 days vs. 19 days, respectively; p = 0.126). Complete remission rates, exacerbations, and survival were comparable. By multivariate competitive risk (Fine‐Gray) analysis, the only significant association with a shorter time to PLT count recovery was the absence of additional treatment (hazard ratio, 2.06; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.39‐3.05; p < 0.001). There was a significant interaction between type of plasma and age, and for patients less than 40 years old, the use of S/D plasma was associated with a shorter time to PLT count recovery versus qFFP (median, 13 [95% CI, 9‐16] days vs. 20 [95% CI, 16‐64] days, respectively; p = 0.004).

CONCLUSION

The outcomes of acquired TTP treated with S/D plasma or qFFP seem similar and therefore both preparations can be used safely for PE in this indication. The faster response of S/D plasma observed in younger patients warrants confirmation in prospective studies.
Call of duty: the effects of phone calls on blood donor motivation
Authors: Bruhin Adrian , Goette Lorenz , Roethlisberger Adrian , Markovic Alexander , Buchli Regula , Frey Beat M.
Published: July 2015

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the long‐term effects of interventions aimed at increasing turnout among voluntary blood donors.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We use a retrospective natural experiment with all 40,653 donors who were repeatedly invited to blood drives in Zurich, Switzerland, between 2010 and 2013. The intervention is a quasi‐randomized phone call informing donors of a current shortage of their blood type. The panel structure of the data allows identification of different types of donors reacting to the phone call.

RESULTS

Our analysis reveals two types. Type 1 donors make up 27.1% of the population. They are highly motivated and exhibit a baseline donation rate of 59.4% (p < 0.001). The phone call raises their probability to donate by 9.9% at the upcoming blood drive (p < 0.001). However, the phone call reduces their donation rate by 2.3% (p = 0.003) at each future blood drive. In contrast, the 72.9% of Type 2 donors exhibit a low baseline donation rate of 5.8% (p < 0.001). The phone call raises their probability to donate by 5.8% at the upcoming blood drive (p < 0.001). Moreover, the phone call leads to habit formation in Type 2 donors and increases their donation rate by 2.1% at the next blood drive (p = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

Behavioral interventions are effective at increasing donation rates in the short run. However, they can crowd out the intrinsic motivation of the most motivated donors. Thus, blood donation services should avoid interventions for highly motivated donors and target them at irregular donors. Our results also sound a warning on using other interventions.
Pharmacokinetics and toxicity of the novel oral demethylating agent zebularine in laboratory and tumor bearing dogs
Authors: Fulkerson C. M. , Dhawan D. , Jones D. R. , Marquez V. E. , Jones P. A. , Wang Z. , Wu Q. , Klaunig J. E. , Fourez L. M. , Bonney P. L. , Knapp D. W.
Published: July 2015

The purpose of this study was to determine the plasma pharmacokinetics (PK) and toxicity of zebularine, an oral cytidine analog with demethylating activity, in dogs. Plasma zebularine concentrations were determined by HPLC‐MS/MS following an oral zebularine dose of 8 or 4 mg kg−1. Plasma zebularine clearance was constant. Mean maximum concentration (Cmax) was 23 ± 4.8 and 8.6 ± 1.4 µM following 8 and 4 mg kg−1, respectively. Mean half‐life was 5.7 ± 0.84 and 7.1 ± 2.1 following 8 and 4 mg kg−1, respectively. A single 8 mg kg−1 dose was well tolerated. Daily 4 mg kg−1 treatment in three laboratory dogs resulted in grade 4 neutropenia (n = 3), grade 1 anorexia (n = 2) and grade 1 or 2 dermatologic changes (n = 2). All adverse events resolved with supportive care. A 4 mg kg−1 dose every 21 days was well tolerated. A follow‐up dose escalation study is in progress with a lower starting dose.
Longitudinal studies of cardiac troponin I concentrations in serum from male cynomolgus monkeys: resting values and effects of oral and intravenous dosing on biologic variability
Authors: Schultze Albert Eric , Anderson Jason M. , Kern Tom G. , Justus Ryan W. , Lee Hsiu‐Yung Cindy , Zieske Lynn R. , Goodson Robert James , Florey Sara Hudson
Published: July 2015

Background

There is a paucity of information regarding cardiac troponin (cTn) concentrations in peripheral blood of nonhuman primates (NHP). Even less is known regarding cTn concentrations in monkeys that are restrained for oral or intravenous (iv) dosing.

Objectives

The objectives of these studies were to (1) determine cardiac troponin I (cTnI) concentration in resting Cynomolgus monkeys and investigate biologic variability in cTnI concentration over time, (2) determine cTnI changes in restrained monkeys given sham oral dosing, and (3) determine cTnI changes in restrained NHP given a sham intravenous dosing.

Methods

The Research Use Only Erenna cTnI ultrasensitive immunoassay based on single molecule counting technology was used to determine serum cTnI concentration in longitudinal studies of male Cynomolgus monkeys at rest, and after sham oral and intravenous dosing. Animals were catheterized prestudy, and blood samples were collected by an automated sampling device to limit disturbance of the animals during studies.

Results

In resting monkeys cTnI concentrations were relatively low and constant and ranged from 0.2 to 9.6 pg/mL (mean = 2.5 pg/mL), with minimal variability during a 24‐hour period. Animals given sham oral dosing also had low cTnI concentration with little variability similar to the resting values. Several animals restrained for intravenous dosing had a small transient increase in cTnI concentration (~5–25 pg/mL) that resolved quickly within one to 3 hours postinjection.

Conclusions

Results of this longitudinal study provide information that may be important in differentiating effects of animal handling from those associated with compound‐related effects in preclinical toxicology studies of drugs in development.
Reference intervals for hematology, serum biochemistry, and basic clinical findings in free‐ranging Chinese Pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) from Taiwan
Authors: Khatri‐Chhetri Rupak , Sun Ching‐Min , Wu Hung‐Yi , Pei Kurtis Jai‐Chyi
Published: July 2015

Background

There are 8 species of Pangolins found in Asia and Africa. Among them, the Chinese Pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) is an endangered insectivorous mammal found only in Asia. Hematology and serum chemistry reference intervals are critical for evaluating an animal's well‐being and can be useful for clinical diagnostic purposes. Currently, there are no such reference intervals available for any Pangolin species.

Objective

The purpose of the present study was to establish reference intervals for hematology and serum biochemical analytes, and some basic clinical findings, in Chinese Pangolins.

Methods

Reference intervals for the hematology and serum chemistry variables, and basic clinical findings (body weight, heart rate, body temperature, blood oxygen saturation) were collected from 100 clinically healthy Chinese Pangolins (51 males and 49 females) using parametric and nonparametric percentile methods. In addition, seasonal, age‐related, and sexual differences for all variables were statistically analyzed.

Results

No significant differences in the reference intervals were found between males and females, except for body weight. However, significant seasonal differences were observed for heart rate, body temperature, serum ALT and lipase activities, and phosphate concentrations. The variables, which were significantly different between adult and sub‐adult Pangolins were heart rate, MCH, creatinine, total protein, phosphate, glucose, and potassium concentration, and amylase activity. Seasonal and age group differences should be taken into consideration when using these reference intervals.

Conclusions

The findings from the present study represent a valuable resource for assessing the health of Chinese Pangolins, and contribute toward the conservation of this endangered mammal.
Microneedling as a successful treatment for alopecia X in two Pomeranian siblings
Authors: Stoll Steve , Dietlin Christian , Nett‐Mettler Claudia S.
Published: July 2015

Background

Alopecia X (hair cycle arrest) is a relatively frequent hair growth disorder in Pomeranians and several other breeds, characterized by symmetrical, noninflammatory alopecia without systemic signs. The cause and pathogenesis remain unknown. Previously reported treatments with various topical and systemic drugs have been variably successful.

Hypothesis

We hypothesized that superficial mechanical skin trauma applied with a microneedling device would induce long‐term hair regrowth at treated sites.

Animals

Two neutered female Pomeranian siblings with histologically confirmed alopecia X. Previous treatments with deslorelin, melatonin and topical minoxidil had failed to produce significant hair regrowth.

Methods

The dogs were anaesthetized and the skin was punctured with a microneedling device. Dogs were followed over a period of 12 months.

Results

Five weeks after microneedling hair regrowth started, followed by a reduction in hyperpigmentation of affected skin. After 12 weeks there was a 90% improvement in coat coverage at previously alopecic areas. Twelve months after the procedure, coat conditions remained stable. No adverse effects were noted.

Conclusions and clinical importance

This is the first report of microneedling to induce hair regrowth in dogs affected by alopecia X. Long‐term studies with microneedling in a larger number of dogs with alopecia X will need to be performed to confirm these preliminary results and to further evaluate if hair‐regrowth is permanent.
Optimizing the blood component production process
Authors: Cid J. , Velásquez C. A. , Lozano M.
Published: July 2015

Background

Automation of blood component preparation (BCP) from whole blood (WB) collections can help to optimize the BCP process, and it is increasingly being widespread implemented.

Aim

This review summarizes the quality of blood components obtained with new automated devices developed in the 2000s.

Methods

We reviewed available literature on the quality of blood components obtained with new automated devices.

Results

Blood components obtained with the new devices met European standards. Of note, compared with platelet concentrates obtained with manual methods, automation of BCP improved the consistency of the final products.

Conclusion

The complete automation of BCP from WB collections is still in development, and it represents a huge change in paradigm.
COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHIC FEATURES OF PHARYNGEAL NEOPLASIA IN 25 DOGS
Authors: Carozzi Gregorio , Zotti Alessandro , Alberti Monica , Rossi Federica
Published: July 2015

Computed tomography (CT) is commonly used to investigate head tumors in dogs, however little information is available for lesions of the pharyngeal area. The purpose of this multicentric, retrospective, cross‐sectional study was to describe the CT findings in a sample of dogs with pathologically confirmed pharyngeal neoplasia and determine whether any CT features allowed differentiation of tumor type. Location of lesions, size and shape, margins, relationship with surrounding structures and vessels, attenuation characteristics and enhancement pattern, regional lymph node changes, and presence of metastasis were recorded by three observers (1 DECVDI). The effect of final diagnosis on each CT feature was tested. A total of 25 dogs were included: 15 with carcinomas, five sarcomas, four melanomas, and one lymphoma. The oropharynx and laryngopharynx were more frequently involved. Among tumor groups, lesions were of similar size, irregularly shaped, had ill‐defined margins, and had moderate‐to‐marked heterogeneous contrast enhancement. Lysis of hyoid bones was recorded in two carcinomas and infiltration of the lingual artery occurred in one case. Marked medial retropharyngeal lymphoadenomegaly was recorded in 11 of 14 carcinomas, in all sarcomas and in two of four melanomas. The single lymphoma case showed ill‐defined thickening of the oropharyngeal and laryngeal wall with retropharyngeal and mandibular lymphadenomegaly. Lung metastases were found in two of five sarcomas and two of four melanomas. Findings from the current study did not support the hypothesis that CT features could be used to predict pharyngeal tumor type in dogs. However, CT was helpful for determining mass extension, lymph node involvement, and distant metastatic spread.
In vitro exposure of pig neonatal isletlike cell clusters to human blood
Authors: Nagaraju Santosh , Bertera Suzanne , Tanaka Takayuki , Hara Hidetaka , Rayat Gina R. , Wijkstrom Martin , Ayares David , Trucco Massimo , Cooper David K. C. , Bottino Rita
Published: July 2015

Background

Pig islet grafts have been successful in treating diabetes in animal models. One remaining question is whether neonatal pig isletlike cell clusters (NICC) are resistant to the early loss of islets from the instant blood‐mediated inflammatory reaction (IBMIR).

Methods

Neonatal isletlike cell clusters were harvested from three groups of piglets—(i) wild‐type (genetically unmodified), (ii) α1,3‐galactosyltransferase gene‐knockout (GTKO)/CD46, and (iii) GTKO/CD46/CD39. NICC samples were mixed with human blood in vitro, and the following measurements were made—antibody binding; complement activation; speed of islet‐induced coagulation; C‐peptide; glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD65) release; viability.

Results

Time to coagulation and viability were both reduced in all groups compared to freshly drawn non‐anticoagulated human blood and autologous combinations, respectively. Antibody binding to the NICC occurred in all groups.

Conclusions

Neonatal isletlike cell clusters were subject to humoral injury with no difference associated to their genetic characteristics.
Methicillin‐Resistant Staphylococcus aureus from Brazilian Dairy Farms and Identification of Novel Sequence Types
Authors: Oliveira C. J. B. , Tiao N. , de Sousa F. G. C. , de Moura J. F. P. , Santos Filho L. , Gebreyes W. A.
Published: July 2015

The aim of this study was to investigate the phenotypic and genotypic diversity and anti‐microbial resistance among staphylococci of dairy herds that originated from Paraiba State, north‐eastern Brazil, a region where such studies are rare. Milk samples (n = 552) were collected from 15 dairy farms. Isolates were evaluated for anti‐microbial susceptibility by Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method. Confirmation of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was performed using multiplex PCR targeting mecA and nuc genes in addition to phenotypic assay based on PBP‐2a latex agglutination. Clonal relatedness of isolates was determined by pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) genotyping. Staphylococci were detected in 269 (49%) of the samples. Among these, 65 (24%) were S. aureus. The remaining 204 isolates were either coagulase‐negative staphylococci (n = 188; 70%) or coagulase positive other than S. aureus (n = 16; 6%). Staphylococci were cultured in seven (35%) of the 20 hand swab samples, from which five isolates were S. aureus. The isolates were most commonly resistant against penicillin (43%), ampicillin (38%) and oxacillin (27%). The gene mecA was detected in 21 S. aureus from milk and in one isolate from a milker's hand. None of the isolates were resistant to vancomycin. PFGE findings showed high clonal diversity among the isolates. Based on MLST, we identified a total of 11 different sequence types (STs 1, 5, 6, 83, 97, 126, 1583, 1622, 1623, 1624 and 1625) with four novel STs (ST1622‐ST1625). The findings show that MRSA is prevalent in milk from semi‐extensive dairy cows in north‐eastern Brazil, and further investigation on its extent in various types of milk production systems and the farm‐to‐table continuum is warranted.
Use of Multicriteria Risk Ranking of Zoonotic Diseases in a Developing Country: Case Study of Mongolia
Authors: McFadden A. M. J. , Muellner P. , Baljinnyam Z. , Vink D. , Wilson N.
Published: July 2015

Many developing countries face significant health burdens associated with a high incidence of endemic zoonoses and difficulties in integrated control measures for both the human and animal populations. The objective of this study was to develop and apply a multicriteria ranking model for zoonoses in Mongolia, a country highly affected by zoonotic disease, to inform optimal resource allocation at the national level. Diseases were evaluated based on their impact on human health, livestock sector health and the wider society through affects on the economic value of livestock, as well as the feasibility of control in both the human and livestock population. Data on disease in Mongolia were collected from various government departments including the Mongolian State Central Laboratory, the Mongolian Department of Veterinary and Animal Breeding, the Mongolian Ministry of Health, Mongolian National Center for Communicable Diseases, the National Center for Zoonotic Disease and expert opinion from a workshop with a number of Mongolian Government officials and researchers. A combined score for both impact of the disease and feasibility of its control was calculated. Five zoonotic diseases were determined to be of high priority from this assessment (i.e. ovine brucellosis, echinococcosis (hydatids), rabies, anthrax and bovine brucellosis). The results supported some of the findings for high‐priority diseases (namely brucellosis, rabies and anthrax) from a previous priority setting exercise carried out in Mongolia in 2011, but also identified and ranked additional animal diseases of public health importance. While the process of model development was largely Mongolian specific, the experience of developing and parameterizing this multicriteria ranking model could be replicated by other countries where zoonoses have substantive impacts on both animal and human health.
Global Distribution and Prevalence of Arcobacter in Food and Water
Authors: Hsu T.‐T. D. , Lee J.
Published: July 2015

The emerging foodborne and waterborne pathogen, Arcobacter, has been linked to various gastrointestinal diseases. Currently, 19 species are established or proposed; consequently, there has been an increase in the number of publications regarding Arcobacter since it was first introduced in 1991. To better understand the potential public health risks posed by Arcobacter, this review summarizes the current knowledge concerning the global distribution and the prevalence of Arcobacter in food and water. Arcobacter spp. were identified in food animals, food‐processing environments and a variety of foods, including vegetables, poultry, beef, dairy products, seafood, pork, lamb and rabbit. A wide range of waterbodies has been reported to be contaminated with Arcobacter spp., such as wastewater, seawater, lake and river water, drinking water, groundwater and recreational water. In addition, Arcobacter has also been isolated from pets, domestic birds, wildlife, zoo and farm animals. It is expected that advancements in molecular techniques will facilitate better detection worldwide and aid in understanding the pathogenicity of Arcobacter. However, more extensive and rigorous surveillance systems are needed to better understand the occurrence of Arcobacter in food and water in various regions of the world, as well as uncover other potential public health risks, that is antibiotic resistance and disinfection efficiency, to reduce the possibility of foodborne and waterborne infections.
Higher oesophageal temperature at rest and during exercise in humans with patent foramen ovale
Authors: Davis James T. , Ng Chi‐Yan A. , Hill Sierra D. , Padgett Richard C. , Lovering Andrew T.
Published: July 2015

Key points

Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is present in ∼35% of the general population.

The respiratory system participates in thermoregulation via evaporative and convective heat loss so blood flow that bypasses the respiratory system, e.g. through a PFO, may not participate in respiratory system cooling.

We found that subjects with a PFO (PFO+) had a ∼0.4°C higher oesophageal temperature (Toesoph) than subjects without a PFO (PFO−) during pre‐exercise and exercise.

Toesoph in PFO+ subjects was associated with the estimated size of the PFO whereby subjects with a large PFO had a greater Toesoph than PFO− subjects and subjects with a small PFO.

During high intensity exercise breathing cold and dry air, PFO+ subjects achieved a higher Toesoph than PFO– subjects.

Absence of respiratory system cooling of shunted blood partially explains the differences in Toesoph between PFO+ and PFO– subjects; other differences in thermoregulatory responses that impact core temperature also likely exist.

Respiratory system cooling occurs via convective and evaporative heat loss, so right‐to‐left shunted blood flow through a patent foramen ovale (PFO) would not be cooled. Accordingly, we hypothesized that PFO+ subjects would have a higher core temperature than PFO– subjects due, in part, to absence of respiratory system cooling of the shunted blood and that this effect would be dependent upon the estimated PFO size and inspired air temperature. Subjects were screened for the presence and size of a PFO using saline contrast echocardiography. Thirty well‐matched males (15 PFO−, 8 large PFO+, 7 small PFO+) completed cycle ergometer exercise trials on three separate days. During Trial 1, subjects completed a test. For Trials 2 and 3, randomized, subjects completed four 2.5 min stages at 25, 50, 75 and 90% of the maximum workload achieved during Trial 1, breathing either ambient air (20.6 ± 1.0°C) or cold air (1.9 ± 3.5°C). PFO+ subjects had a higher oesophageal temperature (Toesoph) (P < 0.05) than PFO− subjects on Trial 1. During exercise breathing cold and dry air, PFO+ subjects achieved a higher Toesoph than PFO− subjects (P < 0.05). Subjects with a large PFO, but not those with a small PFO, had a higher Toesoph than PFO− subjects (P < 0.05) during Trial 1 and increased Toesoph breathing cold and dry air. These data suggest that the presence and size of a PFO are associated with Toesoph in healthy humans but this is explained only partially by absence of respiratory system cooling of shunted blood.
Post‐exercise cold water immersion attenuates acute anabolic signalling and long‐term adaptations in muscle to strength training
Authors: Roberts Llion A. , Raastad Truls , Markworth James F. , Figueiredo Vandre C. , Egner Ingrid M. , Shield Anthony , Cameron‐Smith David , Coombes Jeff S. , Peake Jonathan M.
Published: July 2015

Key points

Cold water immersion is a popular strategy to recover from exercise. However, whether regular cold water immersion influences muscle adaptations to strength training is not well understood.

We compared the effects of cold water immersion and active recovery on changes in muscle mass and strength after 12 weeks of strength training. We also examined the effects of these two treatments on hypertrophy signalling pathways and satellite cell activity in skeletal muscle after acute strength exercise.

Cold water immersion attenuated long term gains in muscle mass and strength. It also blunted the activation of key proteins and satellite cells in skeletal muscle up to 2 days after strength exercise.

Individuals who use strength training to improve athletic performance, recover from injury or maintain their health should therefore reconsider whether to use cold water immersion as an adjuvant to their training.

We investigated functional, morphological and molecular adaptations to strength training exercise and cold water immersion (CWI) through two separate studies. In one study, 21 physically active men strength trained for 12 weeks (2 days per week), with either 10 min of CWI or active recovery (ACT) after each training session. Strength and muscle mass increased more in the ACT group than in the CWI group (P < 0.05). Isokinetic work (19%), type II muscle fibre cross‐sectional area (17%) and the number of myonuclei per fibre (26%) increased in the ACT group (all P < 0.05), but not the CWI group. In another study, nine active men performed a bout of single‐leg strength exercises on separate days, followed by CWI or ACT. Muscle biopsies were collected before and 2, 24 and 48 h after exercise. The number of satellite cells expressing neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) (10−30%) and paired box protein (Pax7) (20−50%) increased 24–48 h after exercise with ACT. The number of NCAM+ satellite cells increased 48 h after exercise with CWI. NCAM+‐ and Pax7+‐positive satellite cell numbers were greater after ACT than after CWI (P < 0.05). Phosphorylation of p70S6 kinaseThr421/Ser424 increased after exercise in both conditions but was greater after ACT (P < 0.05). These data suggest that CWI attenuates the acute changes in satellite cell numbers and activity of kinases that regulate muscle hypertrophy, which may translate to smaller long‐term training gains in muscle strength and hypertrophy. The use of CWI as a regular post‐exercise recovery strategy should be reconsidered.
Age‐related differences in lean mass, protein synthesis and skeletal muscle markers of proteolysis after bed rest and exercise rehabilitation
Authors: Tanner Ruth E. , Brunker Lucille B. , Agergaard Jakob , Barrows Katherine M. , Briggs Robert A. , Kwon Oh Sung , Young Laura M. , Hopkins Paul N. , Volpi Elena , Marcus Robin L. , LaStayo Paul C. , Drummond Micah J.
Published: July 2015

Key points

Five days of bed rest resulted in a reduction in leg lean mass and strength in older adults.

After bed rest, older (but not younger) adults had reduced amino acid‐induced anabolic sensitivity (blunted muscle protein synthesis; MPS) and enhanced markers associated with the ubiquitin proteasome and autophagy–lysosomal systems (increase in molecular markers related to muscle proteolysis).

Younger adults did not lose leg lean mass (via DXA) after 5 days of bed rest despite blunted amino acid‐induced mTORC1 signalling and increased skeletal muscle REDD1, REDD2 and MURF1 mRNA expression.

Exercise rehabilitation restored bed rest‐induced deficits in lean mass, strength, nutrient‐induced protein anabolism (protein synthesis and mTORC1 signalling) and select muscle proteolytic markers in older adults.

Bed rest‐induced muscle loss and impaired muscle recovery may contribute to age‐related sarcopenia. It is unknown if there are age‐related differences in muscle mass and muscle anabolic and catabolic responses to bed rest. A secondary objective was to determine if rehabilitation could reverse bed rest responses. Nine older and fourteen young adults participated in a 5‐day bed rest challenge (BED REST). This was followed by 8 weeks of high intensity resistance exercise (REHAB). Leg lean mass (via dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry; DXA) and strength were determined. Muscle biopsies were collected during a constant stable isotope infusion in the postabsorptive state and after essential amino acid (EAA) ingestion on three occasions: before (PRE), after bed rest and after rehabilitation. Samples were assessed for protein synthesis, mTORC1 signalling, REDD1/2 expression and molecular markers related to muscle proteolysis (MURF1, MAFBX, AMPKα, LC3II/I, Beclin1). We found that leg lean mass and strength decreased in older but not younger adults after bedrest (P < 0.05) and was restored after rehabilitation. EAA‐induced mTORC1 signalling and protein synthesis increased before bed rest in both age groups (P < 0.05). Although both groups had blunted mTORC1 signalling, increased REDD2 and MURF1 mRNA after bedrest, only older adults had reduced EAA‐induced protein synthesis rates and increased MAFBX mRNA, p‐AMPKα and the LC3II/I ratio (P < 0.05). We conclude that older adults are more susceptible than young persons to muscle loss after short‐term bed rest. This may be partially explained by a combined suppression of protein synthesis and a marginal increase in proteolytic markers. Finally, rehabilitation restored bed rest‐induced deficits in lean mass and strength in older adults.
Endogenous casein kinase‐1 modulates NMDA receptor activity of hypothalamic presympathetic neurons and sympathetic outflow in hypertension
Authors: Li De‐Pei , Zhou Jing‐Jing , Pan Hui‐Lin
Published: July 2015

Key points

Increased NMDA receptor activity and excitability of presympathetic neurons in the hypothalamus can increase sympathetic nerve discharges leading to hypertension.

In this study, we determined how protein kinases and phosphatases are involved in regulating NMDA receptor activity and firing activity of presympathetic neurons in the hypothalamus in normotensive and hypertensive rats.

We show that casein kinase‐1 inhibition increases NMDA receptor activity and excitability of presympathetic neurons in the hypothalamus and augments sympathetic nerve discharges in normotensive, but not in hypertensive, rats.

Our data indicate that casein kinase‐1 tonically regulates NMDA receptor activity by interacting with casein kinase‐2 and protein phosphatases in the hypothalamus and that imbalance of NMDA receptor phosphorylation can augment the excitability of hypothalamic presympathetic neurons and sympathetic nerve discharges in hypertension.

These findings help us understand the neuronal mechanism of hypertension, and reducing the NMDA receptor phosphorylation level may be effective for treating neurogenic hypertension.

Increased N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor (NMDAR) activity in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus is involved in elevated sympathetic outflow in hypertension. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying augmented NMDAR activity in hypertension remain unclear. In this study, we determined the role of casein kinase‐1 (CK1) in regulating NMDAR activity in the PVN. NMDAR‐mediated excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) and puff NMDA‐elicited currents were recorded in spinally projecting PVN neurons in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) and Wistar–Kyoto (WKY) rats. The basal amplitudes of evoked NMDAR‐EPSCs and puff NMDA currents were significantly higher in SHRs than in WKY rats. The CK1 inhibitor PF4800567 or PF670462 significantly increased the amplitude of NMDAR‐EPSCs and puff NMDA currents in PVN neurons in WKY rats but not in SHRs. PF4800567 caused an NMDAR‐dependent increase in the excitability of PVN neurons only in WKY rats. Also, the CK1ε protein level in the PVN was significantly lower in SHRs than in WKY rats. Furthermore, intracerebroventricular infusion of PF4800567 increased blood pressure and lumbar sympathetic nerve activity in WKY rats, and this effect was eliminated by microinjection of the NMDAR antagonist into the PVN. In addition, PF4800567 failed to increase NMDAR activity in brain slices of WKY rats pretreated with the protein phosphatase 1/2A, calcineurin, or casein kinase‐2 inhibitor. Our findings suggest that CK1 tonically suppresses NMDAR activity in the PVN by reducing the NMDAR phosphorylation level. Diminished CK1 activity may contribute to potentiated glutamatergic synaptic input to PVN presympathetic neurons and elevated sympathetic vasomotor tone in neurogenic hypertension.
Noise reduction for curve‐linear structures in real time fluoroscopy applications using directional binary masks
Authors: Wagner Martin , Yang Pengfei , Schafer Sebastian , Strother Charles , Mistretta Charles
Published: July 2015

Purpose:

Recent efforts in the reconstruction of interventional devices from two distinct views require the segmentation of the object in both fluoroscopic images. Noise might decrease the quality of the segmentation and cause artifacts in the reconstruction. The noise level depends on the x‐ray dose the patient is exposed to. The proposed algorithm reduces the noise and enhances the separability of curvilinear devices in background subtracted fluoroscopic images to allow a more accurate segmentation.

Methods:

The algorithm uses a set of binary masks to estimate a line conformity measure that determines the best direction for a directional filter kernel. If the calculated value exceeds a certain threshold, the directional kernel is used to obtain the filtered value. Otherwise, an isotropic filter kernel is used.

Results:

The evaluation was performed on a set of 36 fluoroscopic images using a vascular head phantom with three different guidewires and nine different x‐ray dosages from 6 nGy/pulse to 45 nGy/pulse as well as a clinical data set containing ten images. Compared with wavelet shrinkage and the bilateral filter, the proposed algorithm increased the average contrast to noise ratio by at least 17.8% for the phantom and 68.9% for the clinical images. The accuracy of the device segmentation was improved on average by at least 17.3% and 14.0%, respectively.

Conclusions:

The proposed algorithm was able to significantly reduce the amount of noise in the images and therefore increase the quality of the device segmentations compared to both the bilateral filter and the wavelet thresholding approach for all acquired noise levels using rotating directional filter kernels near line structures and isotropic kernels for the background. The application of the proposed algorithm for the 3D reconstruction of curvilinear devices from two views would allow a more accurate reconstruction of the device.
Evidence Map of Yoga for Depression, Anxiety, and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Duan-Porter Wei , Coeytaux Remy R. , McDuffie Jennifer R. , Goode Adam P. , Sharma Poonam , Mennella Hillary , Nagi Avishek , Williams John W.
Published: July 2015

Background:

This study describes evidence of yoga’s effectiveness for depressive disorders, general anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder (PD), and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in adults. We also address adverse events associated with yoga.

Methods:

We searched multiple electronic databases for systematic reviews (SRs) published between 2008 and July 2014, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) not identified in eligible SRs, and ongoing RCTs registered with ClincalTrials.gov.

Results:

We identified 1 SR on depression, 1 for adverse events, and 3 addressing multiple conditions. The high-quality depression SR included 12 RCTs (n = 619) that showed improved short-term depressive symptoms (standardized mean difference, –0.69, 95% confidence interval, –0.99 to –0.39), but there was substantial variability (I2 = 86%) and a high risk of bias for 9 studies. Three SRs addressing multiple conditions identified 4 nonrandomized studies (n = 174) for GAD/PD and 1 RCT (n = 8) and 2 nonrandomized studies (n = 22) for PTSD. We separately found 1 RCT (n = 13) for GAD and 2 RCTs (n = 102) for PTSD. Collectively, these studies were inconclusive for the effectiveness of yoga in treating GAD/PD and PTSD. The high-quality SR for adverse events included 37 primary reports (n = 76) in which inversion postures were most often implicated. We found 5 ongoing trials (3 for PTSD).

Conclusions:

Yoga may improve short-term depressive symptoms, but evidence for GAD, PD, and PTSD remain inconclusive.
Children’s Out-of-School Independently Mobile Trips, Active Travel, and Physical Activity: A Cross-Sectional Examination from the Kids in the City Study
Authors: Oliver Melody , Parker Karl , Witten Karen , Mavoa Suzanne , Badland Hannah M. , Donovan Phil , Chaudhury Moushumi , Kearns Robin
Published: July 2015

Background:

The study aim was to determine the association between children’s objectively assessed moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and active trips (AT) and independently mobile trips (IM) during out-of-school hours.

Methods:

Children aged 9 to 13 years (n = 254) were recruited from 9 schools in Auckland, New Zealand between 2011 and 2012. Children completed travel diaries and wore accelerometers for 7 days. Parents provided demographic information. Geographic information systems-derived distance to school was calculated. Accelerometer data were extracted for out of school hours only. Percentage of time spent in MVPA (%MVPA), AT, and IM were calculated. Generalized estimating equations were used to determine the relationship between daily %MVPA and AT and between daily %MVPA and IM, accounting for age, sex, ethnicity, distance to school, day of the week, and numeric day of data collection.

Results:

A significant positive relationship was observed between %MVPA and both AT and IM. For every unit increase in the daily percentage of trips made that were AT or IM, we found an average increase of 1.28% (95% CI 0.87%, 1.70%) and 1.15% (95% CI 0.71%, 1.59%) time in MVPA, respectively.

Conclusion:

Children’s AT and IM are associated with increased MVPA during out-of-school hours.
Associations of Sedentary Time and Breaks in Sedentary Time With Disability in Instrumental Activities of Daily Living in Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Chen Tao , Narazaki Kenji , Haeuchi Yuka , Chen Sanmei , Honda Takanori , Kumagai Shuzo
Published: July 2015

Background:

This cross-sectional study was performed to examine associations of objectively measured sedentary time (ST) and breaks in sedentary time (BST) with instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) disability in Japanese community-dwelling older adults.

Methods:

The sample comprised 1634 older adults (mean age: 73.3 y, men: 38.4%). Sedentary behavior was measured using a triaxial accelerometer. Disability was defined as inability in at least 1 of the IADL tasks using the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology Index of Competence.

Results:

After adjusting for potential confounders and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), longer ST was significantly associated with higher likelihood of IADL disability, whereas a greater number of BST was associated with lower likelihood of IADL disability. ST and BST remained statistically significant after mutual adjustment with odds ratio of 1.30 (95% confidence interval [CI)], 1.00–1.70) and 0.80 (95% CI, 0.65–0.99), respectively.

Conclusions:

This study first demonstrated that shorter ST and more BST were associated with lower risk of IADL disability independent of MVPA and that the association for ST was independent of BST and vice versa. These findings suggest not only total ST but also the manner in which it is accumulated may contribute to the maintenance of functional independence in older adults.
Safe, Affordable, Convenient: Environmental Features of Malls and Other Public Spaces Used by Older Adults for Walking
Authors: King Diane K. , Allen Peg , Jones Dina L. , Marquez David X. , Brown David R. , Rosenberg Dori , Janicek Sarah , Allen Laila , Belza Basia
Published: July 2015

Background:

Midlife and older adults use shopping malls for walking, but little research has examined mall characteristics that contribute to their walkability.

Methods:

We used modified versions of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-Healthy Aging Research Network (HAN) Environmental Audit and the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) tool to systematically observe 443 walkers in 10 shopping malls. We also observed 87 walkers in 6 community-based nonmall/nongym venues where older adults routinely walked for physical activity.

Results:

All venues had public transit stops and accessible parking. All malls and 67% of nonmalls had wayfinding aids, and most venues (81%) had an established circuitous walking route and clean, well-maintained public restrooms (94%). All venues had level floor surfaces, and one-half had benches along the walking route. Venues varied in hours of access, programming, tripping hazards, traffic control near entrances, and lighting.

Conclusions:

Despite diversity in location, size, and purpose, the mall and nonmall venues audited shared numerous environmental features known to promote walking in older adults and few barriers to walking. Future research should consider programmatic features and outreach strategies to expand the use of malls and other suitable public spaces for walking.