bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predialyis Nephrology Care of Older Individuals Approaching End‐Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Winkelmayer Wolfgang C. , Tamura Manula Kurella
Published: November 2012

Many older patients with advanced CKD approaching ESRD do not receive timely nephrology care, although data suggest that the situation may be improving. In 2005–2008, 43% of older patients who initiated renal replacement therapy had experienced an outpatient nephrologist consultation more than 1 year before starting treatment. Earlier consultation with a nephrologist has been found to provide better access to peritoneal dialysis and kidney transplantation, better preparation for the chosen dialytic modality, and improved survival after start of dialysis or receipt of a kidney transplant. Recent data suggest that older individuals are less likely to receive treatment for ESRD compared with younger individuals in whom almost all receive dialysis treatment or transplantation. Little is known about the role nephrologists play in the decision whether to initiate dialysis or choose a conservative route among older adults with ESRD. Defining the appropriate role and involvement of nephrologists in the decision about initiating renal replacement therapy in older adults seems ripe for further investigation and discussion.
Severe hyponatremia caused by syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone developed as initial manifestation of human herpesvirus‐6–associated acute limbic encephalitis after unrelated bone marrow transplantation
Authors: Kawaguchi T. , Takeuchi M. , Kawajiri C. , Abe D. , Nagao Y. , Yamazaki A. , Sugita Y. , Tsukamoto S. , Sakai S. , Takeda Y. , Ohwada C. , Sakaida E. , Shimizu N. , Yokote K. , Iseki T. , Nakaseko C.
Published: November 2012

Severe hyponatremia is a critical electrolyte abnormality in allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo‐SCT) recipients and >50% of cases of severe hyponatremia are caused by the syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone (SIADH). Here, we present a patient with rapidly progressive severe hyponatremia as an initial sign and symptom of human herpesvirus‐6–associated post‐transplantation acute limbic encephalitis (HHV‐6 PALE) after allo‐SCT. A 45‐year‐old woman with acute lymphoblastic leukemia received unrelated bone marrow transplantation from a one locus‐mismatched donor at the DR locus. On day 21, she developed a generalized seizure and loss of consciousness with severe hyponatremia, elevated serum antidiuretic hormone (ADH), and decreased serum osmolality. A high titer of HHV‐6 DNA was detected in cerebrospinal fluid. Treatment with foscarnet sodium and hypertonic saline was started with improvement of neurological condition within several days. Although an elevated serum ADH, low serum osmolality, and high urinary osmolality persisted for 2 months, she had no other recurrent symptoms of encephalitis. Our experience suggests that hyponatremia accompanied by SIADH should be recognized as a prodromal or concomitant manifestation of HHV‐6 PALE, and close monitoring of serum sodium levels in high‐risk patients for HHV‐6 PALE is necessary for immediate diagnosis and treatment initiation.
Epidemiology, risk factors, and outcomes of Clostridium difficile infection in kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Neofytos D. , Kobayashi K. , Alonso C.D. , Cady‐Reh J. , Lepley D. , Harris M. , Desai N. , Kraus E. , Subramanian A. , Treadway S. , Ostrander D. , Thompson C. , Marr K.
Published: November 2012

Background

We sought to describe the epidemiology and risk factors for Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) among kidney transplant recipients (KTR) between 1 January 2008 and 31 December 2010.

Methods

A single‐institution retrospective study was conducted among all adult KTR with CDI, defined as a positive test for C. difficile by a cell cytotoxic assay for C. difficile toxin A or B or polymerase chain reaction test for toxigenic C. difficile.

Results

Among 603 kidney transplants performed between 1 January 2008 and 31 December 2010, 37 (6.1%) patients developed CDI: 12 (of 128; 9.4%) high‐risk (blood group incompatible and/or anti‐human leukocyte antigen donor‐specific antibodies) vs. 25 (of 475; 5.3%, P = 0.08) standard‐risk patients. The overall rate of CDI increased from 3.7% in 2008 to 9.4% in 2010 (P = 0.05). The median time to CDI diagnosis was 9 days, with 27 (73.0%) patients developing CDI within the first 30 days after their transplant, and 14 (51.8%) developing CDI within 7 days. A case–control analysis of 37 CDI cases and 74 matched controls demonstrated the following predictors for CDI among KTR: vancomycin‐resistant Enterococcus colonization before transplant (odds ratio [OR]: 3.6, P = 0.03), receipt of an organ from Centers for Disease Control high‐risk donor (OR: 5.9, P = 0.006), and administration of high‐risk antibiotics within 30 days post transplant (OR: 6.6, P = 0.001).

Conclusions

CDI remains a common early complication in KTR, with rates steadily increasing during the study period. Host and transplant‐related factors and exposure to antibiotics appeared to significantly impact the risk for CDI among KTR.
Incipient stem cell niche conversion in tissue culture: using a systems approach to probe early events in WUSCHEL‐dependent conversion of lateral root primordia into shoot meristems
Authors: Chatfield Steven P. , Capron Resmi , Severino Andre , Penttila Pier‐Andree , Alfred Simon , Nahal Hardeep , Provart Nicholas J.
Published: November 2012

Adventitious shoot organogenesis contributes to the fitness of diverse plant species, and control of this process is a vital step in plant transformation and in vitro propagation. New shoot meristems (SMs) can be induced by the conversion of lateral root primorida/meristems (LRP/LRMs) or callus expressing markers for this identity. To study this important and fascinating process we developed a high‐throughput methodology for the synchronous initiation of LRP by auxin, and subsequent cytokinin‐induced conversion of these LRP to SMs. Cytokinin treatment induces the expression of the shoot meristematic gene WUSCHEL (WUS) in converting LRP (cLRP) within 24–30 h, and WUS is required for LRP → SM conversion. Subsequently, a transcriptional reporter for CLAVATA3 (CLV3) appeared 32–48 h after transfer to cytokinin, marking presumptive shoot stem cells at the apex of cLRP. Thus the spatial expression of these two components (WUS and CLV3) of a regulatory network maintaining SM stem cells already resembles that seen in a vegetative shoot apical meristem (SAM), suggesting the very rapid initiation and establishment of the new SMs. Our high‐throughput methodology enabled us to successfully apply a systems approach to the study of plant regeneration. Herein we characterize transcriptional reporter expression and global gene expression changes during LRP → SM conversion, elaborate the role of WUS and WUS‐responsive genes in the conversion process, identify and test putative functional targets, perform a comparative analysis of domain‐specific expression in cLRP and SM tissue, and develop a bioinformatic tool for examining gene expression in diverse regeneration systems.
Water phytoremediation of cadmium and copper using Azolla filiculoides Lam. in a hydroponic system
Authors: Valderrama Aly , Tapia Jaime , Peñailillo Patricio , Carvajal Danny E.
Published: November 2012

The aim of this work was to evaluate the utility of Azolla filiculoides growing in a hydroponic system for the phytoremediation of continental water polluted with cadmium and copper during 7 days of exposure. Cadmium and copper chloride were added to the medium at concentrations of 0.5–10 mg/L and 0.1–25 mg/L, respectively. Cadmium and copper levels were measured in each plant using flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The analytical methodology used to measure cadmium and copper levels was validated with standard reference material (SRM) – 1570 (spinach) National Institute of Standards and Technology. The results indicated that cadmium and copper phytoremediation was statistically significant with a maximum increase in plant tissue of 1623.20 and 6013.1 μg/g, respectively. This photosynthetic efficiency was chronically damaged when Azolla filiculoides were exposed to 10 mg/L of Cd and 25 mg/L of Cu. The Azolla plants were not affected in the other phytoremediation treatments with copper.
Performance Characteristics of Current-Generation Immulite 2000 TORCH Assays
Authors: Centonze A. R. , Tonolli E. , Fontana R.
Published: November 2012

The performances of seven Immulite 2000 (Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics) TORCH (
Toxoplasma gondii
, other microorganisms, rubella virus, cytomegalovirus, and herpes simplex virus) assays were evaluated in comparison with the performances of the ETI-MAX 3000 (DiaSorin) TORCH assays. The two systems demonstrated good agreement, and given their sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value, they can be used with confidence for TORCH prenatal screening.
Occurrence of Norovirus Infections in Asymptomatic Food Handlers in South Korea
Authors: Jeong Ah Yong , Jeong Hye Sook , Lee Jeong Su , Park Yong Chjun , Lee Soon Ho , Hwang In Gyun , Kim Yun Joo , Kim Young Joo , Jo Mi Young , Jung Sunyoung , Kim Kisang , Cheon Doo-Sung
Published: November 2012

Prevalence of asymptomatic norovirus infection was investigated in food handlers in South Korea. Among 6,441 subjects, 66 (1.02%) had norovirus infections confirmed by reverse transcription (RT)-PCR (real time and nested). GII-12 and GII-4 were the prevalent genotypes. Our data suggest that infection of asymptomatic food handlers is an important transmission source in norovirus outbreaks.
Pulsed-Field Gel Electrophoresis Analysis of Bordetella pertussis Isolates Circulating in Europe from 1998 to 2009
Authors: Advani Abdolreza , Hallander Hans O. , Dalby Tine , Krogfelt Karen Angeliki , Guiso Nicole , Njamkepo Elisabeth , von Könnig Carl Heinz Wirsing , Riffelmann Marion , Mooi Frits R. , Sandven Per , Lutyńska Anna , Fry Norman K. , Mertsola Jussi , He Qiushui
Published: November 2012

Between 1998 and 2009,
Bordetella pertussis
clinical isolates were collected during three periods, i.e., 1998 to 2001 (
n
= 102), 2004 to 2005 (
n
= 154), and 2007 to 2009 (
n
= 140), from nine countries with distinct vaccination programs, i.e., Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) analysis was performed according to standardized recommendations for epidemiological typing of
B. pertussis
. There were 81 different PFGE profiles, five of which (BpSR3, BpSR5, BpSR10, BpSR11, and BpSR12) were observed in 61% of the 396 isolates and shown to be predominant in almost all countries. The major profile, BpSR11, showed a decreasing trend from 25% to 30% in 1998 to 2005 to 13% in 2007 to 2009, and there were increases in BpSR3 and BpSR10 from 0% and 8% to 21% and 22%, respectively. One difference between these profiles is that BpSR11 contains isolates harboring the
fim3-2
allele and BpSR3 and BpSR10 contain isolates harboring the
fim3-1
allele. The total proportion of the five predominant profiles increased from 44% in 1998 to 2001 to 63% in 2004 to 2005 to 70% in 2007 to 2009. In conclusion, common PFGE profiles were identified in
B. pertussis
populations circulating in European countries with different vaccination programs and different vaccine coverages. These prevalent isolates contain the novel pertussis toxin promoter
ptxP3
allele. However, there is evidence for diversifying selection between
ptxP3
strains characterized by distinct PFGE profiles. This work shows that, even within a relatively short time span of 10 years, successful isolates which spread through Europe and cause large shifts in
B. pertussis
populations may emerge.
Interlaboratory and Interstudy Reproducibility of a Novel Lateral-Flow Device and Influence of Antifungal Therapy on Detection of Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis
Authors: Wiederhold Nathan P. , Najvar Laura K. , Bocanegra Rosie , Kirkpatrick William R. , Patterson Thomas F. , Thornton Christopher R.
Published: November 2012

Interest in lateral-flow devices (LFDs) as potential point-of-care assays for the diagnosis of infectious diseases has increased. Our objective was to evaluate the interlaboratory and interstudy reproducibility and the effects of antifungal therapy on an LFD developed for invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) detection. An established neutropenic guinea pig model of IPA caused by
Aspergillus fumigatus
was used. At predetermined time points (1 h and 3, 5, and 7 days postinoculation), blood and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid were collected from infected and uninfected animals. In a separate experiment, guinea pigs were treated with posaconazole (10 mg/kg of body weight orally [p.o.] twice a day [BID]), voriconazole (10 mg/kg p.o. BID), liposomal amphotericin B (10 mg/kg intraperitoneally [i.p.] once a day [QD]), or caspofungin (2 mg/kg i.p. QD), and samples were collected on days 7 and 11. Each laboratory independently evaluated the IgG monoclonal antibody-based LFD. Galactomannan and (1→3)-β-
d
-glucan were also measured using commercially available kits. Good interlaboratory agreement was observed with the LFD, as the results for 97% (32/33) of the serum and 78.8% (26/33) of the BAL fluid samples from infected animals were in agreement. Good interstudy agreement was also observed. The serum sensitivity of each surrogate-marker assay was reduced in animals treated with antifungals. In contrast, these markers remained elevated within the BAL fluids of treated animals, which was consistent with the fungal burden and histopathology results. These results demonstrate that the LFD assay is reproducible between different laboratories and studies. However, the sensitivity of this assay and other markers of IPA may be reduced with serum in the presence of antifungal therapy.
Rapid Whole-Genome Sequencing for Investigation of a Suspected Tuberculosis Outbreak
Authors: Török M. Estée , Reuter Sandra , Bryant Josephine , Köser Claudio U. , Stinchcombe Sian V. , Nazareth Bernadette , Ellington Matthew J. , Bentley Stephen D. , Smith Geoffrey P. , Parkhill Julian , Peacock Sharon J.
Published: November 2012

Two Southeast Asian students attending the same school in the United Kingdom presented with pulmonary tuberculosis. An epidemiological investigation failed to link the two cases, and drug resistance profiles of the
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
isolates were discrepant. Whole-genome sequencing of the isolates found them to be genetically identical, suggesting a missed transmission event.
Evaluation of a New Chromogenic Agar Medium for Detection of Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli (STEC) and Relative Prevalences of O157 and Non-O157 STEC in Manitoba, Canada
Authors: Wylie J. L. , Van Caeseele P. , Gilmour M. W. , Sitter D. , Guttek C. , Giercke S.
Published: November 2012

This study assesses the detection performance of CHROMagar STEC medium relative to a reference cytotoxin assay and describes the current relative prevalence of O157 and non-O157 Shiga toxin-producing
Escherichia coli
(STEC) serotypes within the province of Manitoba, Canada. Over a 10-month period, 205 nonfrozen routine stool submissions to Cadham Provincial Laboratory (CPL) were used to assess the performance of CHROMagar STEC. Of the 205 stools, 14 were identified as true positives by a cytotoxin assay, with resultant CHROMagar STEC sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive and negative predictive values of 85.7%, 95.8%, 60.0%, and 98.9%, respectively. Using a separate panel of 111 STEC strains, CHROMagar STEC was shown to support the growth of 96 (86.5%) isolates. To assess relative prevalence, attempts were made to isolate by any means all STEC strains identified at CPL over a 17-month period. Of 49 isolates (representing 86.0% of all STEC infections detected), only 28.6% were O157 STEC strains. Of the 35 non-O157 STEC strains, 29 were subjected to further molecular analysis. In contrast to earlier results from our area, carriage of
stx
2
appears to have increased. Overall, although CHROMagar STEC is not recommended as a primary screen, our results indicate that it is an effective supplemental medium for the isolation of probable STEC strains. Increased isolation of these serotypes is warranted to better understand their prevalence, clinical characteristics, and epidemiology and aid in the development or enhancement of food safety control programs targeting all STEC serotypes.
Detection of Heterogeneity of Borrelia burgdorferi in Ixodes Ticks by Culture-Dependent and Culture-Independent Methods
Authors: Xu Guang , Wesker Jaime , White Caitlin , Campbell Jason , Reich Nicholas G. , Rich Stephen M.
Published: November 2012

Abilities to detect heterogeneity of
ospC
genotypes of the Lyme disease spirochete
Borrelia burgdorferi
in the tick vector by
in vitro
culture (IVC) and direct PCR (dPCR) were compared. IVC failed to detect one-third of the
ospC
genotypes detected by dPCR. Among IVC results, common
ospC
genotypes were overrepresented while occurrence of rare genotypes was underestimated.
Antigenicity and Immunogenicity of RV144 Vaccine AIDSVAX Clade E Envelope Immunogen Is Enhanced by a gp120 N-Terminal Deletion
Authors: Alam S. Munir , Liao Hua-Xin , Tomaras Georgia D. , Bonsignori Mattia , Tsao Chun-Yen , Hwang Kwan-Ki , Chen Haiyan , Lloyd Krissey E. , Bowman Cindy , Sutherland Laura , Jeffries Thomas L. , Kozink Daniel M. , Stewart Shelley , Anasti Kara , Jaeger Frederick H. , Parks Robert , Yates Nicole L. , Overman R. Glenn , Sinangil Faruk , Berman Phillip W. , Pitisuttithum Punnee , Kaewkungwal Jaranit , Nitayaphan Sorachai , Karasavva Nicos , Rerks-Ngarm Supachai , Kim Jerome H. , Michael Nelson L. , Zolla-Pazner Susan , Santra Sampa , Letvin Norman L. , Harrison Stephen C. , Haynes Barton F.
Published: November 2012

An immune correlates analysis of the RV144 HIV-1 vaccine trial revealed that antibody responses to the gp120 V1/V2 region correlated inversely with infection risk. The RV144 protein immunogens (A244-rp120 and MN-rgp120) were modified by an N-terminal 11-amino-acid deletion (Δ11) and addition of a herpes simplex virus (HSV) gD protein-derived tag (gD). We investigated the effects of these modifications on gp120 expression, antigenicity, and immunogenicity by comparing unmodified A244 gp120 with both Δ11 deletion and gD tag and with Δ11 only. Analysis of A244 gp120, with or without Δ11 or gD, demonstrated that the Δ11 deletion, without the addition of gD, was sufficient for enhanced antigenicity to gp120 C1 region, conformational V2, and V1/V2 gp120 conformational epitopes. RV144 vaccinee serum IgGs bound more avidly to A244 gp120 Δ11 than to the unmodified gp120, and their binding was blocked by C1, V2, and V1/V2 antibodies. Rhesus macaques immunized with the three different forms of A244 gp120 proteins gave similar levels of gp120 antibody titers, although higher antibody titers developed earlier in A244 Δ11 gp120-immunized animals. Conformational V1/V2 monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) gave significantly higher levels of blocking of plasma IgG from A244 Δ11 gp120-immunized animals than IgG from animals immunized with unmodified A244 gp120, thus indicating a qualitative difference in the V1/V2 antibodies induced by A244 Δ11 gp120. These results demonstrate that deletion of N-terminal residues in the RV144 A244 gp120 immunogen improves both envelope antigenicity and immunogenicity.
High-Risk Human Papillomavirus E6 Oncoproteins Interact with 14-3-3ζ in a PDZ Binding Motif-Dependent Manner
Authors: Boon Siaw Shi , Banks Lawrence
Published: November 2012

Cervical cancer develops through the combined activities of the human papillomavirus (HPV) E6 and E7 oncoproteins. A defining characteristic of E6 oncoproteins derived from cancer-causing HPV types is the presence of a PDZ binding motif (PBM) at the extreme carboxy terminus of the protein which is absent from E6 proteins derived from the so-called low-risk HPV types. Within this PBM is also a protein kinase A (PKA) phospho-acceptor site, which is thought to negatively regulate the association of E6 with its PDZ domain-containing substrates. We can now show that phosphorylation of E6 by PKA and/or AKT confers the ability to interact with 14-3-3ζ. The interaction is direct and specific for the high-risk HPV E6 oncoproteins, although there are significant differences in the efficiencies with which HPV-16, HPV-18, and HPV-31 E6 oncoproteins can associate with 14-3-3ζ; this correlates directly with their respective susceptibilities to phosphorylation by PKA and/or AKT. We demonstrate here that the interaction between E6 and 14-3-3ζ also requires integrity of the E6 PBM, and downregulation of 14-3-3ζ results in a marked reduction in the levels of HPV-18 E6 expression in HeLa cells. Using phospho-specific anti-E6 antibodies, we also demonstrate significant levels of E6 phosphorylation
in vivo
. These studies redefine the potential relevance of the E6 PBM in the development of cervical cancer, suggesting that interaction with 14-3-3ζ, as well as the more well-established interactions with PDZ domain-containing substrates, is likely to be responsible for the biological activities attributed to this region of the high-risk HPV E6 oncoproteins.
Inhibition of Cellular Autophagy Deranges Dengue Virion Maturation
Authors: Mateo Roberto , Nagamine Claude M. , Spagnolo Jeannie , Méndez Ernesto , Rahe Michael , Gale Michael , Yuan Junying , Kirkegaard Karla
Published: November 2012

Autophagy is an important component of the innate immune response, directly destroying many intracellular pathogens. However, some pathogens, including several RNA viruses, subvert the autophagy pathway, or components of the pathway, to facilitate their replication. In the present study, the effect of inhibiting autophagy on the growth of dengue virus was tested using a novel inhibitor, spautin-1 (
s
pecific and
p
otent
aut
ophagy
in
hibitor 1). Inhibition of autophagy by spautin-1 generated heat-sensitive, noninfectious dengue virus particles, revealing a large effect of components of the autophagy pathway on viral maturation. A smaller effect on viral RNA accumulation was also observed. Conversely, stimulation of autophagy resulted in increased viral titers and pathogenicity in the mouse. We conclude that the presence of functional autophagy components facilitates viral RNA replication and, more importantly, is required for infectious dengue virus production. Pharmacological inhibition of host processes is an attractive antiviral strategy to avoid selection of treatment-resistant variants, and inhibitors of autophagy may prove to be valuable therapeutics against dengue virus infection and pathogenesis.
Nuclear Export Signal-Interacting Protein Forms Complexes with Lamin A/C-Nups To Mediate the CRM1-Independent Nuclear Export of Large Hepatitis Delta Antigen
Authors: Huang Cheng , Jiang Jia-Yin , Chang Shin C. , Tsay Yeou-Guang , Chen Mei-Ru , Chang Ming-Fu
Published: November 2012

Nuclear export is an important process that not only regulates the functions of cellular factors but also facilitates the assembly of viral nucleoprotein complexes. Chromosome region maintenance 1 (CRM1) that mediates the transport of proteins bearing the classical leucine-rich nuclear export signal (NES) is the best-characterized nuclear export receptor. Recently, several CRM1-independent nuclear export pathways were also identified. The nuclear export of the large form of hepatitis delta antigen (HDAg-L), a nucleocapsid protein of hepatitis delta virus (HDV), which contains a CRM1-independent proline-rich NES, is mediated by the host NES-interacting protein (NESI). The mechanism of the NESI protein in mediating nuclear export is still unknown. In this study, NESI was characterized as a highly glycosylated membrane protein. It interacted and colocalized well in the nuclear envelope with lamin A/C and nucleoporins. Importantly, HDAg-L could be coimmunoprecipitated with lamin A/C and nucleoporins. In addition, binding of the cargo HDAg-L to the C terminus of NESI was detected for the wild-type protein but not for the nuclear export-defective HDAg-L carrying a P205A mutation [HDAg-L(P205A)]. Knockdown of lamin A/C effectively reduced the nuclear export of HDAg-L and the assembly of HDV. These data indicate that by forming complexes with lamin A/C and nucleoporins, NESI facilitates the CRM1-independent nuclear export of HDAg-L.
Proteolytic Processing of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus Envelope Glycoprotein Precursor Decreases Conformational Flexibility
Authors: Haim Hillel , Salas Ignacio , Sodroski Joseph
Published: November 2012

The mature envelope glycoprotein (Env) spike on the surface of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) virions is derived by proteolytic cleavage of a trimeric gp160 glycoprotein precursor. Remarkably, proteolytic processing of the HIV-1 Env precursor results in changes in Env antigenicity that resemble those associated with glutaraldehyde fixation. Apparently, proteolytic processing of the HIV-1 Env precursor decreases conformational flexibility of the Env trimeric complex, differentially affecting the integrity/accessibility of epitopes for neutralizing and nonneutralizing antibodies.
Effects of enzyme replacement therapy in adult patients with Fabry disease on cardiac structure and function: a retrospective cohort study of the Fabry Münster Study (FaMüS) data
Authors: Engelen Markus A , Brand Eva , Baumeister Timo B , Marquardt T , Duning Thomas , Osada Nani , Schaefer Roland M , Stypmann Joerg
Published: November 2012

Objective

Fabry disease (FD) is an X-linked inborn error of glycosphingolipid catabolism caused by deficient lysosomal α-galactosidase A activity. Progressive accumulation of globotriaosylceramide and related glycosphingolipids in vascular endothelial lysosomes of the heart, kidneys and brain is responsible for the main disease manifestations. The aim of our study was to assess short-term and long-term effects of enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) on cardiac mass and function.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Hospital outpatient clinic.

Participants

40 FD patients (21 men, 19 women) receiving agalsidase β-ERT.

Outcome measures

The focus at baseline and follow-up examinations was on structural, functional (Doppler-echocardiography) as well as electrical changes (ECG) and blood pressure.

Results

In the Early Group, systolic and diastolic blood pressures significantly decreased. Left-ventricular (LV) also decreased; however, wall thickness and LV mass index showed no further increase. VE as an indicator for diastolic function significantly improved (64±21 vs 75±27 cm/s, p=0.038). There were no significant changes of ECG parameters. There were few relevant changes in the Late Group, albeit systolic blood pressure significantly decreased and QRS duration significantly increased. In conclusion, echocardiographic left-ventricular mass index, interventricular septum thickness, left-ventricular posterior wall, left-ventricular end-diastolic dimension) and diastolic function parameters are valuable for follow-up and guidance of therapy.

Conclusions

The primary positive impact of ERT appears to be an early effect after the start of therapy, and early initiation of ERT should be recommended.
Missed opportunities: childhood learning disabilities as early indicators of risk among homeless adults with mental illness in Vancouver, British Columbia
Authors: Patterson Michelle Louise , Moniruzzaman Akm , Frankish Charles James , Somers Julian M
Published: November 2012

Objectives

It is well documented that early-learning problems and poor academic achievement adversely impact child development and a wide range of adult outcomes; however, these indicators have received scant attention among homeless adults. This study examines self-reported learning disabilities (LD) in childhood as predictors of duration of homelessness, mental and substance use disorders, physical health, and service utilisation in a sample of homeless adults with current mental illness.

Design

This study was conducted using the baseline sample from a randomised controlled trial (RCT).

Setting

Participants were sampled from the community in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Participants

The total sample included 497 adult participants who met criteria for absolute homelessness or precarious housing and a current mental disorder based on a structured diagnostic interview. Learning disabilities in childhood were assessed by asking adult participants whether they thought they had an LD in childhood and if anyone had told them they had an LD. Only participants who responded positively to both questions (n=133) were included in the analyses.

Outcome measures

Primary outcomes include current mental disorders, substance use disorders, physical health, service utilisation and duration of homelessness.

Results

In multivariable regression models, self-reported LD during childhood independently predicted self-reported educational attainment and lifetime duration of homelessness as well as a range of mental health, physical health and substance use problems, but did not predict reported health or justice service utilisation.

Conclusions

Childhood learning problems are overrepresented among homeless adults with complex comorbidities and long histories of homelessness. Our findings are consistent with a growing body of literature indicating that adverse childhood events are potent risk factors for a number of adult health and psychiatric problems, including substance abuse.

Trials registration number

This trial has been registered with the International Standard Randomised Control Trial Number Register and assignedISRCTN42520374.
Serum leptin is not correlated with body fat in severe food restriction
Authors: Gairdner Sarah E. , Amara Catherine E.
Published: November 2012

Leptin is an adipose-derived hormone with established roles in energy balance that can impact the response to refeeding after malnutrition. Although the amount of circulating leptin has traditionally been associated with the amount of adipose tissue, controversy exists as to whether this relationship is constant in both humans and animals and over a wide range of body composition. Our objective was to evaluate whether the leptin – body fat ratio is constant in the range of healthy to low body mass in female Wistar rats. Eight ad libitum fed (C) and eight food-restricted (FR) rats were compared over a period of four weeks. FR rats attained the target 75% of baseline body mass after the first two weeks, which was maintained for the remaining two weeks. Serum leptin and IGF-1 (ELISA) and body composition (DXA) were measured at baseline (t0) and once weekly for the remainder of the study (t1–t4). The leptin – body fat ratio was reduced during the two-week period of weight loss (t0 = 0.036 ± 0.016 (ng·mL–1)·g–1 vs. t1 = 0.010 ± 0.004 (ng·mL–1)·g–1 and t2 = 0.015 ± 0.007 (ng·mL–1)·g–1, p < 0.05). Leptin concentration plateaued at its nadir (~0.24 (ng·mL–1)·g–1) at fat mass < 22 g. IGF-1 was correlated with lean mass (r = 0.45, p < 0.05) and fat mass (r = 0.58, p < 0.05), regardless of body mass. We concluded that the leptin – body fat ratio was reduced early in food restriction and the correlation between these two variables was absent at low body fat.
Effects of prior short multiple-sprint exercises with different intersprint recoveries on the slow component of oxygen uptake during high-intensity exercise
Authors: Lanzi Stefano , Borrani Fabio , Wolf Martin , Gojanovic Boris , Malatesta Davide
Published: November 2012

This study compares the effects of two short multiple-sprint exercise (MSE) (6 × 6 s) sessions with two different recovery durations (30 s or 180 s) on the slow component of oxygen uptake ([Formula: see text]O2) during subsequent high-intensity exercise. Ten male subjects performed a 6-min cycling test at 50% of the difference between the gas exchange threshold and [Formula: see text]O2peak (Δ50). Then, the subjects performed two MSEs of 6 × 6 s separated by two intersprint recoveries of 30 s (MSE30) and 180 s (MSE180), followed 10 min later by the Δ50 (Δ5030 and Δ50180, respectively). Electromyography (EMG) activities of the vastus medialis and lateralis were measured throughout each exercise bout. During MSE30, muscle activity (root mean square) increased significantly (p ≤ 0.04), with a significant leftward-shifted median frequency of the power density spectrum (MDF; p ≤ 0.01), whereas MDF was significantly rightward-shifted during MSE180 (p = 0.02). The mean [Formula: see text]O2 value was significantly higher in MSE30 than in MSE180 (p < 0.001). During Δ5030, [Formula: see text]O2 and the deoxygenated hemoglobin ([HHb]) slow components were significantly reduced (–27%, p = 0.02, and –34%, p = 0.003, respectively) compared with Δ50. There were no significant modifications of the [Formula: see text]O2 slow component in Δ50180 compared with Δ50 (p = 0.32). The neuromuscular and metabolic adaptations during MSE30 (preferential activation of type I muscle fibers evidenced by decreased MDF and a greater aerobic metabolism contribution to the required energy demands), but not during MSE180, may lead to reduced [Formula: see text]O2 and [HHb] slow components, suggesting an alteration in motor units recruitment profile (i.e., change in the type of muscle fibers recruited) and (or) an improved muscle O2 delivery during subsequent exercise.
Is maximal lactate steady state during intermittent cycling different for active compared with passive recovery?
Authors: Greco Camila Coelho , Barbosa Luis Fabiano , Caritá Renato Aparecido Corrêa , Denadai Benedito Sérgio
Published: November 2012

The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of recovery type (passive vs. active) during prolonged intermittent exercises on the blood lactate concentration (MLSS) and work rate (MLSSwint) at maximal lactate steady state. Nineteen male trained cyclists were divided into 2 groups for the determination of MLSSwint using passive (maximal oxygen uptake = 58.1 ± 3.5 mL·kg–1·min–1; N = 9) or active recovery (maximal oxygen uptake = 60.3 ± 9.0 mL·kg–1·min–1; N = 10). They performed the following tests, on different days, on a cycle ergometer: (i) incremental test until exhaustion to determine maximal oxygen uptake; (ii) 2 to 3 continuous submaximal constant work rate tests (CWRT) for the determination of the work rate at continuous maximal lactate steady state (MLSSwcont); and (iii) 2 to 3 intermittent submaximal CWRT (7 × 4 min and 1 × 2 min, with 2-min recovery) with either passive or active recovery for the determination of MLSSwint. MLSSwint was significantly higher when compared with MLSSwcont for both passive recovery (294.7 ± 32.2 vs. 258.7 ± 24.5 W, respectively) and active recovery groups (300.5 ± 23.9 vs. 273.2 ± 21.5 W, respectively). The percentage increments in MLSSwint were similar between conditions (passive = 13% vs. active = 10%). MLSS (mmol·L–1) was not significantly different between MLSSwcont and MLSSwint for either passive recovery (4.50 ± 2.10 vs. 5.61 ± 1.78, respectively) and active recovery (4.06 ± 1.49 vs. 4.91 ± 1.91, respectively) conditions. We can conclude that using a work/rest ratio of 2:1, MLSSwint was ∼10%–13% higher than MLSSwcont, irrespective of the recovery type performed during prolonged intermittent exercises.
Central hemodynamic responses during acute high-intensity interval exercise and moderate continuous exercise in patients with heart failure
Authors: Gayda Mathieu , Normandin Eve , Meyer Philippe , Juneau Martin , Haykowsky Mark , Nigam Anil
Published: November 2012

The aim of this study was to compare the acute hemodynamic responses during high-intensity intermittent exercise (HIIE) session compared with moderate-intensity continuous exercise (MICE) session in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (HFREF). Thirteen patients with HFREF (age, 59 ± 6 years; left ventricular ejection fraction, 27% ± 6%; New York Heart Association class I to III) were randomly assigned to a single session of HIIE (2 × 8 min) corresponding to 30 s at 100% of peak power output (PPO) and 30 s passive recovery intervals or to a MICE (22 min) at 60% of PPO. Gas exchange and central hemodynamic parameters (cardiac bioimpedance) were measured continuously during exercise. Oxygen uptake, stroke volume (SV), cardiac output (CO), and arterio-venous difference (C(a-v)O2) were compared. Mean oxygen uptake and ventilation were lower during HIIE vs. MICE. CO, SV, and C(a-v)O2) were not different between MICE and HIIE. Optimized HIIE was well tolerated (similar perceived exertion) and no significant ventricular arrhythmias and (or) abnormal blood pressure responses occurred during HIEE session. Compared with MICE, optimized HIIE elicited similar central hemodynamic and C(a-v)O2 responses in HFREF patients with lower oxygen uptake and ventilation. HIIE may be an efficient exercise training modality in patients with HFREF.
Optimising sprint interval exercise to maximise energy expenditure and enjoyment in overweight boys
Authors: Crisp Nicole A. , Fournier Paul A. , Licari Melissa K. , Braham Rebecca , Guelfi Kym J.
Published: November 2012

The aim of this study was to identify the sprint frequency that when supplemented to continuous exercise at the intensity that maximises fat oxidation (Fatmax), optimises energy expenditure, acute postexercise energy intake and enjoyment. Eleven overweight boys completed 30 min of either continuous cycling at Fatmax(MOD), or sprint interval exercise that consisted of continuous cycling at Fatmaxinterspersed with 4-s maximal sprints every 2 min (SI120), every 1 min (SI60), or every 30 s (SI30). Energy expenditure was assessed during exercise, after which participants completed a modified Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES) followed by a buffet-type breakfast to measure acute postexercise energy intake. Energy expenditure increased with increasing sprint frequency (p < 0.001), but the difference between SI60and SI30did not reach significance (p = 0.076), likely as a result of decreased sprint quality as indicated by a significant decline in peak power output from SI60to SI30(p = 0.034). Postexercise energy intake was similar for MOD, SI120, and SI30(p > 0.05), but was significantly less for SI60compared with MOD (p = 0.025). PACES was similar for MOD, SI120, and SI60(p > 0.05), but was less for SI30compared with MOD (p = 0.038), SI120(p = 0.009), and SI60(p = 0.052). In conclusion, SI60appears optimal for overweight boys given that it maximises energy expenditure (i.e., there was no additional increase in expenditure with a further increase in sprint frequency) without prompting increased energy intake. This, coupled with the fact that enjoyment was not compromised, may have important implications for increased adherence and long-term energy balance.
Relationship between the adoption of preventive practices and the metabolic profile of women with prior gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Gingras Véronique , Paradis Ann-Marie , Tchernof André , Weisnagel S. John , Robitaille Julie
Published: November 2012

Women with prior gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are encouraged to adopt healthy lifestyle behaviours to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes. The objective was to examine the association between the adoption of preventive practices and the metabolic profile of women with prior GDM. Analyses included 181 women who had GDM between 2003 and 2010. The preventive practices examined included (i) regular physical activity (≥150 min·week–1) assessed with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire; (ii) a healthy diet (score derived from the Alternate Healthy Eating Index and associated with a lower metabolic risk) evaluated from a food frequency questionnaire; and (iii) exclusive breastfeeding (≥6 months). Women were classified according to the number of preventive practices adopted. Waist circumference, weight, and height were measured and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Fasting insulinemia and glycemia were obtained and Matsuda index for insulin sensitivity was calculated. Nearly one-third of women adopted none of the listed preventive practices. For each increase of 1 preventive practice adopted, women were 30% less likely to have a BMI ≥ 25 kg·m–2 (odds ratio (OR): 0.70, 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.50–0.98)), they were 34% less likely to have a waist circumference ≥ 88 cm (OR: 0.66, 95%CI (0.47–0.92)) and they were 33% less likely to have a Matsuda index for insulin sensitivity < 9.69 (OR: 0.67, 95%CI (0.48–0.94)). These results suggest that women with prior GDM who adopt the recommended preventive practices in the years following delivery are less likely to have lower insulin sensitivity, less likely to be overweight–obese, and less likely to be characterized by abdominal obesity.
Effects of swim training on liver carcinogenesis in male Wistar rats fed a low-fat or high-fat diet
Authors: Aguiar e Silva Marco Aurélio , Vechetti-Junior Ivan José , Nascimento André Ferreira do , Furtado Kelly Silva , Azevedo Luciana , Ribeiro Daniel Araki , Barbisan Luis Fernando
Published: November 2012

The present study aimed to investigate the beneficial effects of swim training on the promotion–progression stages of rat liver carcinogenesis. Male Wistar rats were submitted to chemically induced liver carcinogenesis and allocated into 4 major groups, according their dietary regimen (16 weeks) and swim training of 5 days per week (8 weeks): 2 groups were fed low-fat diet (LFD, 6% fat) and trained or not trained and 2 groups were fed high-fat diet (HFD, 21% fat) and trained or not trained. At week 20, the animals were killed and liver samples were processed for histological analyses; immunohistochemical detection of persistent or remodeling preneoplastic lesions (pPNL and rPNL) expressing placental glutathione S-transferase (GST-P) enzyme; or proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), cleaved caspase-3, and bcl-2 protein levels by Western blotting or malonaldehyde (MDA) and total glutathione detection by HPLC. Overall analysis indicated that swim training reduced the body weight and body fat in both LFD and HFD groups, normalized total cholesterol levels in the HFD group while decreased the MDA levels, increased glutathione levels and both number of GST-P-positive pPNL and hepatocellular adenomas in LFD group. Also, a favorable balance in PCNA, cleaved caspase-3, and bcl-2 levels was detected in the liver from the LFD-trained group in relation to LFD-untrained group. The findings of this study indicate that the swim training protocol as a result of exercise postconditioning may attenuate liver carcinogenesis under an adequate dietary regimen with lowered fat intake.
Changes in body weight, composition, and shape: a 4-year study of college students
Authors: Gropper Sareen S. , Simmons Karla P. , Connell Lenda Jo , Ulrich Pamela V.
Published: November 2012

The objectives of this study were to examine changes in body weight, body mass index (BMI), body composition, and shape in a group of male and female students over the 4-year college period. Anthropometric assessments including height and weight (via standard techniques), body composition (via bioelectrical impedance analysis), and body shape (via 3-dimensional body scanning) were conducted at the beginning of the freshman year and end of the senior year in 131 college students. Four-year changes included significant (p < 0.0001) gains in weight (3.0 kg), BMI (1.0 kg·m–2), body fat (3.6%), and absolute fat mass (3.2 kg). Males gained significantly (p < 0.0001) greater amounts of weight, BMI, percent and absolute fat mass, and fat-free mass than females. Weight change ranged from –8.7 to +16.8 kg. About 70% of the participants gained weight, which averaged 5.3 kg; significant (p < 0.0001) gains in BMI, fat-free mass, absolute fat mass, and percent body fat and significant (p < 0.0005) increases in neck, chest–bust, waist, hips, seat, and biceps circumferences were also observed in this weight gain group. The percentage of participants classified as overweight–obese increased from 18% to 31%. The number of females and males with ≥30% and 20% body fat, respectively, increased from n = 14 to n = 26 (with n = 4 exhibiting normal weight obesity) over the 4-year period. The waist circumference changes were significantly (p < 0.0001) correlated with both weight and percent body fat changes. In conclusion, the increasing prevalence of obesity and normal weight obesity among this college population suggests the need for additional health promotion strategies on college campuses.
Estimating carbon emissions from forest degradation: implications of uncertainties and area sizes for a REDD+ MRV system
Authors: Plugge Daniel , Köhl Michael
Published: November 2012

Under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the mechanism Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD) has become an important option to create a financial value for the carbon stored in forests by reducing the emissions from forested lands. Thus far, many studies deal with the detectability of emissions resulting from deforestation. This study concentrates on the emissions and emission reductions from forest degradation. We show, based on data from the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization’s (FAO) Global Forest Resources Assessment 2010, the influence of uncertainties aligned to the estimation of emission reductions from forest degradation. On the example of three countries representing small to large forest areas and low to high carbon stocks, three different approaches for the inclusion of the uncertainties of estimates for two periods are analyzed. Furthermore, by simulating different sizes of areas where forest degradation takes place, the sensitivity of the estimated emission reductions with respect to the size of these areas is shown. The results of the study highlight the importance of identifying sound options of including uncertainties for different periods into a Measuring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) system to avoid windfall profits from REDD. Moreover, it is demonstrated that an as accurate as possible identification of the areas where forest degradation takes place is decisive for the amount of REDD benefits achievable for a country.
Differential susceptibility of inbred mouse strains to chlorine-induced airway fibrosis
Authors: Mo Yiqun , Chen Jing , Schlueter Connie F. , Hoyle Gary W.
Published: November 2012

Chlorine is a reactive gas that is considered a chemical threat agent. Humans who develop acute lung injury from chlorine inhalation typically recover normal lung function; however, a subset can experience chronic airway disease. To examine pathological changes following chlorine-induced lung injury, mice were exposed to a single high dose of chlorine, and repair of the lung was analyzed at multiple times after exposure. In FVB/NJ mice, chlorine inhalation caused pronounced fibrosis of larger airways that developed by day 7 after exposure and was associated with airway hyperreactivity. In contrast, A/J mice had little or no airway fibrosis and had normal lung function at day 7. Unexposed FVB/NJ mice had less keratin 5 staining (basal cell marker) than A/J mice in large intrapulmonary airways where epithelial repair was poor and fibrosis developed after chlorine exposure. FVB/NJ mice had large areas devoid of epithelium on day 1 after exposure leading to fibroproliferative lesions on days 4 and 7. A/J mice had airways covered by squamous keratin 5-stained cells on day 1 that transitioned to a highly proliferative reparative epithelium by day 4 followed by the reappearance of ciliated and Clara cells by day 7. The data suggest that lack of basal cells in the large intrapulmonary airways and failure to effect epithelial repair at these sites are factors contributing to the development of airway fibrosis in FVB/NJ mice. The observed differences in susceptibility to chlorine-induced airway disease provide a model in which mechanisms and treatment of airway fibrosis can be investigated.