bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cu3(µ2-Cl)3 and Ag3(μ2-Cl)3 Complexes Supported by Tetradentate Trisphosphino-stibine and -bismuthine Ligands: Structural Evidence for Triply Bridging Heavy Pnictines
Authors: Ke Iou-Sheng , Gabbaï François P.
Published: August 2013

The tetradentate stibine and bismuthine ligands (o-(iPr2P)C6H4)3Sb (LSbP3) and (o-(iPr2P)C6H4)3Bi (LBiP3) react with CuCl and AgCl in THF at room temperature to afford (o-(iPr2P)C6H4)3SbCu3(μ2-Cl)3 (1), (o-(iPr2P)C6H4)3SbAg3(μ2-Cl)3 (2), (o-(iPr2P)C6H4)3BiCu3(μ2-Cl)3 (3), and (o-(iPr2P)C6H4)3BiAg3(μ2-Cl)3 (4), respectively. These complexes, which have been fully characterised, feature a central M3(μ2-Cl)3 cluster (M = Cu or Ag) supported by coordination of a LSbP3- or LBiP3-phosphino group to each group 11 metal ion. The heavy pnictogen atom (Pn) interacts simultaneously with the three group 11 metal ions of the M3(μ2-Cl)3 cluster leading to formation of a tetrahedral PnM3 core. Bonding analysis using the Natural Bond Orbital method indicates the presence of a four-centre two-electron Pn→M3 interaction whose strength is the highest in 1 and the lowest in 4. The triply bridging bonding mode of the stibine and bismuthine ligands observed in these complexes is, to our knowledge, unprecedented. We also note that the central M3(μ2-Cl)3 clusters found in these complexes are related to the cyclo-trimers observed in vapours of CuCl and AgCl.
A survey of genes involved in Arachis stenosperma resistance to Meloidogyne arenaria race 1
Authors: Morgante Carolina V. , Brasileiro Ana C.M. , Roberts Philip A. , Guimaraes Larissa A. , Araujo Ana C.G. , Fonseca Leonardo N. , Leal-Bertioli Soraya C.M. , Bertioli David J. , Guimaraes Patricia M.
Published: August 2013

Root-knot nematodes constitute a constraint for important crops, including peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Resistance to Meloidogyne arenaria has been identified in the peanut wild relative Arachis stenosperma Krapov. & W. C. Greg., in which the induction of feeding sites by the nematode was inhibited by an early hypersensitive response (HR). Here, the transcription expression profiles of 19 genes selected from Arachis species were analysed using quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), during the early phases of an A. stenosperma–M. arenaria interaction. Sixteen genes were significantly differentially expressed in infected and non-infected roots, in at least one of the time points analysed: 3, 6, and 9 days after inoculation. These genes are involved in the HR and production of secondary metabolites related to pathogen defence. Seven genes encoding a resistance protein MG13, a helix-loop helix protein, an ubiquitin protein ligase, a patatin-like protein, a catalase, a DUF538 protein, and a resveratrol synthase, were differentially expressed in all time points analysed. Transcripts of two genes had their spatial and temporal distributions analysed by in situ hybridisation that validated qRT-PCR data. The identification of candidate resistance genes involved in wild peanut resistance to Meloidogyne can provide additional resources for peanut breeding and transgenic approaches.
A cost-effective and informative method of GPS tracking wildlife
Authors: Allan Blake M. , Arnould John P. Y. , Martin Jennifer K. , Ritchie Euan G.
Published: August 2013

In wildlife research, our ability to GPS track sufficient numbers of individuals is always limited by cost, which restricts inference of species–habitat relationships. Here, we describe the modification and use of a relatively new and inexpensive off-the-shelf GPS device, to provide detailed and accurate information on the movement patterns of individuals (mountain brushtail possums, Trichosurus cunninghami), including how movement varies through time, and how individuals interact with each other. Our results demonstrated that this technology has enormous potential to contribute to an improved understanding of the movement patterns and habitat preferences of wildlife at a fraction of the cost of traditional GPS technology.
A physical explanation of the temperature dependence of physiological processes mediated by cilia and flagella
Authors: Humphries Stuart
Published: August 2013

The majority of biological rates are known to exhibit temperature dependence. Here I reveal a direct link between temperature and ecologically relevant rates such as swimming speeds in Archaea, Bacteria, and Eukaryotes as well as fluid-pumping and filtration rates in many metazoans, and show that this relationship is driven by movement rates of cilia and flagella. I develop models of the temperature dependence of cilial and flagellar movement rates and evaluate these with an extensive compilation of data from the literature. The model captures the temperature dependence of viscosity and provides a mechanistic and biologically interpretable explanation for the temperature dependence of a range of ecologically relevant processes; it also reveals a clear dependence on both reaction rate-like processes and the physics of the environment. The incorporation of viscosity allows further insight into the effects of environmental temperature variation and of processes, such as disease, that affect the viscosity of blood or other body fluids.
Torso-like functions independently of Torso to regulateDrosophilagrowth and developmental timing
Authors: Johnson Travis K. , Crossman Tova , Foote Karyn A. , Henstridge Michelle A. , Saligari Melissa J. , Forbes Beadle Lauren , Herr Anabel , Whisstock James C. , Warr Coral G.
Published: August 2013

Significance

Torso-like (Tsl) is the soleDrosophilamember of the membrane attack complex/perforin-like protein superfamily, generally known for pore-forming function and immune defence roles. Tsl, however, has a well-characterized developmental role in controlling activation of the receptor tyrosine kinase Torso (Tor) to achieve patterning of the termini of the early embryo. Here we report that the second known role of Tor, as the receptor for the hormone that induces metamorphosis, does not require Tsl. Instead, we find that Tsl controls developmental timing and growth independently of Tor. We conclude that Tsl plays a broader than expected role during development and is not merely a specialized cue for Tor signaling.
Lung dendritic cells imprint T cell lung homing and promote lung immunity through the chemokine receptor CCR4
Authors: Mikhak Zamaneh , Strassner James P. , Luster Andrew D.
Published: August 2013

T cell trafficking into the lung is critical for lung immunity, but the mechanisms that mediate T cell lung homing are not well understood. Here, we show that lung dendritic cells (DCs) imprint T cell lung homing, as lung DC–activated T cells traffic more efficiently into the lung in response to inhaled antigen and at homeostasis compared with T cells activated by DCs from other tissues. Consequently, lung DC–imprinted T cells protect against influenza more effectively than do gut and skin DC–imprinted T cells. Lung DCs imprint the expression of CCR4 on T cells, and CCR4 contributes to T cell lung imprinting. Lung DC–activated, CCR4-deficient T cells fail to traffic into the lung as efficiently and to protect against influenza as effectively as lung DC–activated, CCR4-sufficient T cells. Thus, lung DCs imprint T cell lung homing and promote lung immunity in part through CCR4.
Subdural haematoma in Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax mixed infection presenting multiple clinical complications
Authors: Devaraju Punith B. , Padukone Shashiraja , Veerabhadraiah Shivakumar R. , Ramachandrappa Vijayakumar S. , Panji Narayan , Chandrappagowda Pruthvi B. , Rudrappa Maheshmurthy B. , Gowda D. Channe , Achur Rajeshwara N.
Published: August 2013

A 40-year-old man was admitted to hospital with a 5 day history of fever, restlessness and altered sensorium. Peripheral blood smears showed a Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium falciparum mixed infection as revealed by the presence of rings, schizonts and gametocyte forms of the parasites. The patient soon became unconscious due to subdural haematoma (SDH) associated with disseminated intravascular coagulation and thrombocytopenia. Immediate intervention with a right fronto-parieto temporal craniectomy, evacuation of the SDH and intravenous quinine administration resulted in the patient’s complete recovery within 8 days of admission, and he was discharged in good clinical condition.
Systematic review
Authors: Pucher K.K. , Boot N.M.W.M. , De Vries N.K.
Published: August 2013

Purpose

A systematic review of effects and mediators was conducted to determine whether school health promotion interventions (SHPIs) can enhance children's academic performance (AP).

Design/methodology/approach

PubMed and PsycINFO database searches and subsequent reference list reviews were conducted for papers published before 18 January 2012 with a standard form of eligibility criteria encompassing standardized measures of AP (e.g. grade‐point averages, end of year marks) and methodology sound studies (e.g. randomized controlled trials, cross‐over controlled trials, quasi‐experimental designs with pre‐ and posttest) of interventions addressing healthy lifestyles in the general school population. Information for the study description was extracted from the original article (e.g. country, study purpose, research design, effects on AP measures, components of Health Promoting School, author's explanations for observed effects). Effect sizes were calculated for effects on AP measures.

Findings

Remaining SHPIs targeted exclusively the maintenance of energy balance (physical activity (PA) and nutrition) and had small to large positive effects on AP; no negative effects were reported. Effects of different kinds of interventions varied across academic domains. One PA intervention reported large effects of vigorous activity on mathematics; another PA intervention had small to medium impact on language scores. Small to medium effects were found for interventions combining nutrition and PA elements; one affected mathematics and another both mathematics and language scores. Slight improvements in language scores were observed for breakfast provision in schools.

Limitations

The small number of interventions, little homogeneity in intervention components (content, length and measurement instruments), reporting bias and some inconsistent results should be considered when interpreting our results. Our review did not allow definite conclusions concerning mechanisms responsible for effects of SHPIs on AP.

Practical implications

Planned development of school health promotion will need to be based on evidence. Measures of AP should be included in evaluations of SHPIs. Schools and health professionals should be made aware of the importance of these measures.

Originality/value

We provide evidence that SHPIs promoting energy balance can affect AP, also if they do not target children at risk or with specific symptoms, nor employ elements directly connected to school education.
Evaluation of food and health of Brazilians living in Bournemouth, England – migration influences
Authors: Bispo Stephanie , Caroline dos Santos Luana
Published: August 2013

Purpose

This paper aimed to characterize the nutrition and health of Brazilians living in Bournemouth, England, and changes in lifestyle after migration.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a descriptive study conducted with adult residents of Bournemouth for over a year, selected through a snowball sample. We obtained demographic and food data through a structured questionnaire. An anthropometric evaluation gathered weight, height and waist circumference data.

Findings

The final sample consisted of 111 immigrants, 57.7 percent female, with a mean age of 33.02 (±9.58) years. We found evidence that despite the existence of the health immigrant effect, health and nutritional benefits in immigrants erode over time. They reported weight gain post migration, and changes in diet, with increased consumption of food rich in calories and low in nutrients. We found a high proportion of obesity and risk of metabolic complications, which increased with time living in England because of reduced physical activity and worsening dietary habits.

Originality/value

The number of people migrating to other countries has been increasing, resulting in interference in the processes of integration and acculturation of lifestyle, including those related to diet and physical activity. But there is little about its impact on Brazilians living abroad. This study showed that health behaviors of migrants were negatively altered by migration.
Exploring the linear and quadratic effects of customer and competitor orientation on export performance
Authors: Lengler Jorge Francisco , Sousa Carlos M.P. , Marques Catarina
Published: August 2013

Purpose

Despite some attempts to integrate the market orientation construct into the international marketing area, most conceptual and empirical studies have been conducted in the context of domestic operations. In addition, few studies have examined the quadratic effects of customer and competitor orientation on export performance. To address this gap in the literature we test a model that examines whether customer and competitor orientation have linear or quadratic relationships with export performance. We also investigate if competitive intensity moderates the linear and quadratic relationships between customer and competitor orientation and export profit.

Design/methodology/approach

The hypotheses are tested using survey data collected from 197 Brazilian export firms. Structural equation modeling was conducted to test the hypothesized relationships and to validate the proposed conceptual model.

Findings

Empirical evidence reveals that, while customer orientation has a U‐shaped relationship with export sales, the competitor orientation–export profit relationship is linear. Our results also provide evidence that the positive quadratic relationship between customer orientation and export profit is mediated by export sales. Contrary to expectations, the results also indicate that none of the linear or quadratic relationships investigated in the model are moderated by competitive intensity.

Originality/value

We test a model in an export context that examines whether the relationships between the separate components of market orientation and export performance are linear or quadratic. We also contribute to the literature by examining these relationships in the context of a developing country, namely Brazil.
How effective is joint commissioning? A study of five English localities
Authors: Dickinson Helen , Glasby Jon
Published: August 2013

Purpose

This paper reports research undertaken into the practices, processes and outcomes of joint commissioning at five English localities. This paper reflects on the implications of this study for the practice of joint commissioning.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study approach to the research was adopted where the assumptions about what joint commissioning should deliver in five “best practice” sites. These hypothesised relationships about organisational processes, services and outcomes were then tested through the collection of primary and secondary data. Methods of data collection included an online tool based on Q methodology, documentary analysis, interviews and focus groups.

Findings

Very little of what we found seemed to relate directly to issues of joint commissioning. Respondents often spoke of joint commissioning conflating it with issues of commissioning or joint working more generally. We found a variety of different definitions and meanings of joint commissioning in practice suggesting that this is not a coherent model but varies across localities. Little evidence of improved outcomes was found, due to practical and technical difficulties.

Research limitations/implications

Joint commissioning is not a coherent model and is applied in different ways across different contexts. As such we may need to ask very different questions of joint commissioning to those typically asked.

Practical implications

It is important that local sites are clear about what they are trying to deliver through joint commissioning or else risk that it becomes an end in itself. Some of the current reforms taking place in health and social care risk pulling apart existing relationships that have taken significant time and resource to develop.

Originality/value

This is one of the first large‐scale studies of joint commissioning conducted in England.
Risk assessment of offenders with an autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Murphy David
Published: August 2013

Purpose

Integral to the process of formulating and managing the difficulties of mentally disordered offenders is the assessment of risk. However, the opinion held by many clinicians who work with offenders with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is that most conventional risk assessment tools fail to capture the underlying reasons why such individuals may offend. This needs to be explored.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a screening study of the HCR 20 risk assessment tool and some other characteristics of ‘high risk’ individuals with an ASD. Also presented is a brief literature review supported by clinical experience of the assessment of psychopathy in ASD and highlighting potential key factors to be included in a risk assessment of offenders with an ASD.

Findings

It was found that nine out of the 20 risk items contained in the HCR 20 are present in 50 per cent or less of the sample. Whilst some conventional risk factors are present, clinical experience and the literature suggests that it is the specific difficulties associated with having an ASD that contribute towards an individual's vulnerability to offend.

Originality/value

Although further examination is required, provisional findings from this small screening study of the HCR 20 profiles of high risk individuals with an ASD questions the usefulness of some conventional risk factors in understanding the difficulties within this population. It is proposed that there is a need for good practise guidelines for assessing risk in individuals with an ASD.
Effects of different cooking methods on the vitamin C content of selected vegetables
Authors: Zeng Chuli
Published: August 2013

Purpose

Vegetables are rich in vitamin C, but most of them are commonly cooked before being consumed. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effects of three common cooking methods (i.e. steaming, microwaving, and boiling) on the vitamin C content of broccoli, spinach, and lettuce.

Design/methodology/approach

100 g of homogeneous pieces of broccoli, spinach, and lettuce was separately processed for 5 minutes by steaming, microwaving, and boiling. A simple UV analytical method was employed to determine the vitamin C content of the vegetables.

Findings

Loss of vitamin C in broccoli, spinach, and lettuce during steaming was 14.3, 11.1, and 8.6 per cent, respectively, while the loss of vitamin C during boiling was 54.6, 50.5, and 40.4 per cent, respectively. During microwaving, loss of vitamin C in broccoli, spinach, and lettuce was 28.1, 25.5, and 21.2 per cent, respectively.

Practical implications

This study shows that any raw vegetable contains the highest content of vitamin C compared to that of cooked one. Eating raw vegetables is the best way to obtain vitamin C. Cooking methods (i.e. steaming, microwaving, and boiling) have huge impacts on the vitamin C content of vegetables. Steaming is the best cooking method for retaining the vitamin C content in vegetables.

Originality/value

This study evaluates for the first study the effects of three common cooking methods (i.e. steaming, microwaving, and boiling) on the vitamin C content of broccoli, spinach, and lettuce.
Climate change adaptation
Authors: S. Hayles Carolyn , Dean Moira , A. Lappin Sarah , E. McCullough Jane
Published: August 2013

Purpose

– In this paper, the authors present the Awareness Behaviour Intervention Action (ABIA) framework, a new system developed by them to support environmentally responsible behaviour (ERB).

Design/methodology/approach

– Previous ERB programmes have failed to deliver lasting results; they have not appropriately understood and provided systems to address ERB (Costanzo et al., 1986). The ABIA framework has been developed in line with behavioural studies in other disciplines. A preliminary pilot study has been carried out with social housing residents in order to understand the framework's efficacy.

Findings

– The ABIA framework enables a better understanding of current attitudes to environmental issues and provides support for ERB alongside technological interventions employed to promote carbon reduction.

Research limitations/implications

– The ABIA framework could be tested on individuals and communities in a variety of socio-economic, political and cultural contexts. This will help unpack how it can impact on the behaviours of individuals and communities including stakeholders.

Practical implications

– This type of research and the ABIA framework developed from it are crucial if the EU is to reduce is domestic carbon footprint and if the UK is to meet its pledge to become the first country in the world in which all new homes from 2016 are to be zero carbon.

Social implications

– The framework encourages both individual and community engagement in solving of sustainability issues.

Originality/value

– There are few studies that have developed a framework which can be used in practice to support behavioural change for adaptation to sustainable living in low- or zero-carbon homes.
A pragmatic approach to the analysis of diets of generalist predators: the use of next‐generation sequencing with no blocking probes
Authors: Piñol J. , San Andrés V. , Clare E. L. , Mir G. , Symondson W. O. C.
Published: August 2013

Predicting whether a predator is capable of affecting the dynamics of a prey species in the field implies the analysis of the complete diet of the predator, not simply rates of predation on a target taxon. Here, we employed the Ion Torrent next‐generation sequencing technology to investigate the diet of a generalist arthropod predator. A complete dietary analysis requires the use of general primers, but these will also amplify the predator unless suppressed using a blocking probe. However, blocking probes can potentially block other species, particularly if they are phylogenetically close. Here, we aimed to demonstrate that enough prey sequence could be obtained without blocking probes. In communities with many predators, this approach obviates the need to design and test numerous blocking primers, thus making analysis of complex community food webs a viable proposition. We applied this approach to the analysis of predation by the linyphiid spider Oedothorax fuscus in an arable field. We obtained over two million raw reads. After discarding the low‐quality and predator reads, the libraries still contained over 61 000 prey reads (3% of the raw reads; 6% of reads passing quality control). The libraries were rich in Collembola, Lepidoptera, Diptera and Nematoda. They also contained sequences derived from several spider species and from horticultural pests (aphids). Oedothorax fuscus is common in UK cereal fields, and the results showed that it is exploiting a wide range of prey. Next‐generation sequencing using general primers but without blocking probes provided ample sequences for analysis of the prey range of this spider and proved to be a simple and inexpensive approach.
Sleeping with the enemy
Authors: Salmon Gilly , Angood Rod
Published: August 2013

We provide a brief history of how academics and information technology (IT) professionals have come to be on opposing sides in a battle for position, influence and direction within universities. The long‐running conflict has shaped different belief systems and resultant values and behaviours that are no longer appropriate nor tolerable if universities are to successfully address the emerging challenges of the 21st century. We argue that in the complex world of higher education, a new pathway that involves partnerships between IT departments and faculties is a fast—and risk‐averse—way through the new challenges and issues. We suggest that leaders have an opportunity to impact effective and corporate decision making by enabling both camps and factions to share a better understanding of each other's contributions and collaborate around key IT and learning technology initiatives. We conclude with 16 action recommendations for leaders to create a better future for higher education learning with technology.
The protein phosphatase 2A regulatory subunit Ppp2r2a is required for Connexin‐43 dephosphorlyation during epidermal barrier acquisition
Authors: Gerner Lisa , Youssef Gehad , O'Shaughnessy Ryan F. L.
Published: August 2013

Epidermal barrier acquisition during late mammalian development is a prerequisite for terrestrial existence. Over a 24‐h period, the epidermis goes from being a barrier‐deficient, dye permeable epithelium to a barrier‐competent epithelium. We have previously shown that Akt signalling is necessary for barrier acquisition in the mouse and that the protein phosphatase 2A regulatory subunit Ppp2r2a causes barrier acquisition by dephosphorylation of cJun. Here, we demonstrate that there is transient interaction between the gap junction protein Connexin 43 (Cx43) and Zonula occludins‐1 (Zo‐1) during epidermal barrier acquisition. Ppp2r2a knockdown prevented plasma membrane co‐localisation and interaction between the two proteins. Ppp2r2a knockdown also increased phosphorylation at Serine 368 of Connexin 43. Cx43 phosphorlyation at Serine368 occurred just prior to the interaction between Connexin 43 and Zo‐1. We therefore propose a model in which Ppp2r2a is required both for the initial interaction between Zo‐1 and Cx43 and the consequent dephosphorylation of Connexin 43, preventing interaction of Zo‐1 and allowing Zo‐1 to initiate tight junction formation and barrier acquisition.
Dual sensory loss: A major age‐related increase of comorbid hearing loss and hearing aid ownership in visually impaired adults
Authors: Vreeken Hilde L , van Rens Ger HMB , Knol Dirk L , van Reijen Nadja A , Kramer Sophia E , Festen Joost M , van Nispen Ruth MA
Published: August 2013

Aim

Despite increasing interest in visual and hearing impairment in the older population, little attention has been paid to concurrent hearing and vision loss, also known as dual sensory loss. The aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence of comorbid hearing disability and hearing aid ownership in visually impaired older adults.

Methods

In a cross‐sectional survey, a self‐report hearing disability screener was administered to 1396 visually impaired patients (aged ≥50 years) of outpatient low vision rehabilitation centers in the Netherlands and Belgium.

Results

Of all participants, 44.8% (95% CI 42.2–47.5) had insufficient or poor hearing; the prevalence increased quadratically with age. Of all dual sensory impaired participants, 31.2% in the Netherlands and 55.7% in Belgium did not own hearing aids.

Conclusions

The high prevalence of dual sensory loss calls for more awareness of related problems in these patients. Differences between the Netherlands and Belgium regarding hearing aid ownership might be due to different criteria used for hearing aid referral and insurance policies. For patients with dual sensory loss, specialized care implemented in low vision rehabilitation seems warranted. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2014; 14: 570–576.
Association between serum immunoglobulin G4 concentration and cardiac function among elderly cardiology inpatients
Authors: Sakane Kazushi , Shibata Kensaku , Fujita Shu‐ichi , Shimamoto Shinsaku , Ito Takahide , Kizawa Shun , Morita Hideaki , Sohmiya Koichi , Hoshiga Masaaki , Ishizaka Nobukazu
Published: August 2013

Aim

To study whether there is an association between serum immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4) concentration and cardiac function among cardiology inpatients.

Methods

This retrospective study included 91 patients who had sinus rhythm. Of 91 patients, 70 patients (77%) were aged ≥60 years (elderly group) and the remaining 21 patients (23%) were aged <60 years (younger group).

Results

Serum IgG4 concentrations were found to be negatively correlated with brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and with E/e′, an indicator for cardiac diastolic function in the elderly group, but not in the younger group. In contrast, IgG4 was significantly correlated with neither left ventricular mass nor ejection fraction in either group. Multivariate regression analysis showed that, in the elderly group, the association between IgG4 and E/e′, and that between IgG4 and BNP, were independent of age, sex, systolic blood pressure and renal function; log‐transformed IgG4 showed a negative association with log‐transformed E/e′ and log‐transformed BNP, with a standardized correlation coefficient of −0.26 (95% confidence interval −0.49 to −0.03, P = 0.030 and −0.22 (95% confidence interval −0.44 to −0.11, P = 0.043), respectively.

Conclusion

Serum IgG4 concentration might be associated with cardiac diastolic function among elderly cardiology inpatients. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2014; 14: 582–588.
Transcriptional and functional regulation of the intestinal peptide transporter PEPT1
Authors: Spanier Britta
Published: August 2013

Dietary proteins are cleaved within the intestinal lumen to oligopeptides which are further processed to small peptides (di‐ and tripeptides) and free amino acids. Although the transport of amino acids is mediated by several specific amino acid transporters, the proton‐coupled uptake of the more than 8000 different di‐ and tripeptides is performed by the high‐capacity/low‐affinity peptide transporter isoform PEPT1 (SLC15A1). Its wide substrate tolerance also allows the transport of a repertoire of structurally closely related compounds and drugs, which explains their high oral bioavailability and brings PEPT1 into focus for medical and pharmaceutical approaches. Although the first evidence for the interplay of nutrient supply and PEPT1 expression and function was described over 20 years ago, many aspects of the molecular processes controlling its transcription and translation and modifying its transporter properties are still awaiting discovery. The present review summarizes the recent knowledge on the factors modulating PEPT1 expression and function in Caenorhabditis elegans, Danio rerio, Mus musculus and Homo sapiens, with focus on dietary ingredients, transcription factors and functional modulators, such as the sodium–proton exchanger NHE3 and selected scaffold proteins.
Implementation of Speed Variation in the Structural Dynamic Assessment of Turbomachinery Flow Path Components
Authors: Brown Andrew M. , Davis R. Benjamin , DeHaye Michael K.
Published: August 2013

During the design of turbomachinery flow path components, the assessment of possible structural resonant conditions is critical. Higher frequency modes of these structures are frequently found to be subject to resonance and, in these cases, design criteria require a forced response analysis of the structure with the assumption that the excitation speed exactly equals the resonant frequency. The design becomes problematic if the response analysis shows a violation of the high cycle fatigue (HCF) criteria. One possible solution is to perform a “finite-life” analysis, where Miner's rule is used to calculate the actual life in seconds in comparison to the required life. In this situation, it is beneficial to incorporate the fact that, for a variety of turbomachinery control reasons, the speed of the rotor does not actually dwell at a single value but instead dithers about a nominal mean speed and during the time that the excitation frequency is not equal to the resonant frequency, the damage accumulated by the structure is significantly diminished. Building on previous investigations into this process, we show that a steady-state assumption of the response is extremely accurate for this typical case, resulting in the ability to quickly account for speed variation in the finite-life analysis of a component which has previously had its peak dynamic stress at resonance calculated. A technique using a Monte Carlo simulation is also presented which can be used when specific speed time histories are not available. The implementation of these techniques can prove critical for successful turbopump design, since the improvement in life when speed variation is considered is shown to be greater than a factor of two.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Human-Pathogenic Bacterium Vibrio alginolyticus E0666
Authors: Cao Yuan , Liu Xiao-Fei , Zhang He-Lin , Chen Ying-Jian , Hu Cheng-Jin
Published: August 2013

Vibrio alginolyticus
is a Gram-negative halophilic bacterium with worldwide distribution. In this work, we report the draft genome sequence of a
V. alginolyticus
strain (E0666) isolated from
Epinephelus coioides
ascites in the Shantou city of Guangdong Province, China.
Virulence and Immune Response Induced by Mycobacterium avium Complex Strains in a Model of Progressive Pulmonary Tuberculosis and Subcutaneous Infection in BALB/c Mice
Authors: González-Pérez Mónica , Mariño-Ramírez Leonardo , Parra-López Carlos Alberto , Murcia Martha Isabel , Marquina Brenda , Mata-Espinoza Dulce , Rodriguez-Míguez Yadira , Baay-Guzman Guillermina J. , Huerta-Yepez Sara , Hernandez-Pando Rogelio
Published: August 2013

The genusMycobacteriumcomprises more than 150 species, including important pathogens for humans which cause major public health problems. The vast majority of efforts to understand the genus have been addressed in studies withMycobacterium tuberculosis. The biological differentiation betweenM. tuberculosisand nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) is important because there are distinctions in the sources of infection, treatments, and the course of disease. Likewise, the importance of studying NTM is not only due to its clinical significance but also due to the mechanisms by which some species are pathogenic while others are not.Mycobacterium aviumcomplex (MAC) is the most important group of NTM opportunistic pathogens, since it is the second largest medical complex in the genus after theM. tuberculosiscomplex. Here, we evaluated the virulence and immune response ofM. aviumsubsp.aviumandMycobacterium colombiense, using experimental models of progressive pulmonary tuberculosis and subcutaneous infection in BALB/c mice. Mice infected intratracheally with a high dose of MAC strains showed high expression of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and inducible nitric oxide synthase with rapid bacillus elimination and numerous granulomas, but without lung consolidation during late infection in coexistence with high expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines. In contrast, subcutaneous infection showed high production of the proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α and gamma interferon with relatively low production of anti-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-10 (IL-10) or IL-4, which efficiently eliminate the bacilli but maintain extensive inflammation and fibrosis. Thus, MAC infection evokes different immune and inflammatory responses depending on the MAC species and affected tissue.
The Ferric Enterobactin Transporter Fep Is Required for Persistent Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium Infection
Authors: Nagy Toni A. , Moreland Sarah M. , Andrews-Polymenis Helene , Detweiler Corrella S.
Published: August 2013

Most bacterial pathogens require iron to grow and colonize host tissues. The Gram-negative bacterium
Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhimurium causes a natural systemic infection of mice that models acute and chronic human typhoid fever.
S
. Typhimurium resides in tissues within cells of the monocyte lineage, which limit pathogen access to iron, a mechanism of nutritional immunity. The primary ferric iron import system encoded by
Salmonella
is the siderophore ABC transporter FepBDGC. The Fep system has a known role in acute infection, but it is unclear whether ferric iron uptake or the ferric iron binding siderophores enterobactin and salmochelin are required for persistent infection. We defined the role of the Fep iron transporter and siderophores in the replication of
Salmonella
in macrophages and in mice that develop acute followed by persistent infections. Replication of wild-type and iron transporter mutant
Salmonella
strains was quantified in cultured macrophages, fecal pellets, and host tissues in mixed- and single-infection experiments. We show that deletion of
fepB
attenuated
Salmonella
replication and colonization within macrophages and mice. Additionally, the genes required to produce and transport enterobactin and salmochelin across the outer membrane receptors,
fepA
and
iroN
, are needed for colonization of all tissues examined. However, salmochelin appears to be more important than enterobactin in the colonization of the spleen and liver, both sites of dissemination. Thus, the FepBDGC ferric iron transporter and the siderophores enterobactin and salmochelin are required by
Salmonella
to evade nutritional immunity in macrophages and cause persistent infection in mice.
Analysis of Autoinducer-2 Quorum Sensing in Yersinia pestis
Authors: Yu Jing , Madsen Melissa L. , Carruthers Michael D. , Phillips Gregory J. , Kavanaugh Jeffrey S. , Boyd Jeff M. , Horswill Alexander R. , Minion F. Chris
Published: August 2013

The autoinducer-2 (AI-2) quorum-sensing system has been linked to diverse phenotypes and regulatory changes in pathogenic bacteria. In the present study, we performed a molecular and biochemical characterization of the AI-2 system in
Yersinia pestis
, the causative agent of plague. In strain CO92, the AI-2 signal is produced in a
luxS
-dependent manner, reaching maximal levels of 2.5 μM in the late logarithmic growth phase, and both wild-type and pigmentation (
pgm
) mutant strains made equivalent levels of AI-2. Strain CO92 possesses a chromosomal
lsr
locus encoding factors involved in the binding and import of AI-2, and confirming this assignment, an
lsr
deletion mutant increased extracellular pools of AI-2. To assess the functional role of AI-2 sensing in
Y. pestis
, microarray studies were conducted by comparing Δ
pgm
strain R88 to a Δ
pgm
Δ
luxS
mutant or a quorum-sensing-null Δ
pgm
Δ
ypeIR
Δ
yspIR
Δ
luxS
mutant at 37°C. Our data suggest that AI-2 quorum sensing is associated with metabolic activities and oxidative stress genes that may help
Y. pestis
survive at the host temperature. This was confirmed by observing that the
luxS
mutant was more sensitive to killing by hydrogen peroxide, suggesting a potential requirement for AI-2 in evasion of oxidative damage. We also show that a large number of membrane protein genes are controlled by LuxS, suggesting a role for quorum sensing in membrane modeling. Altogether, this study provides the first global analysis of AI-2 signaling in
Y. pestis
and identifies potential roles for the system in controlling genes important to disease.
A novel subtype of myeloproliferative disorder? JAK2V617F-associated hypereosinophilia with hepatic venous thrombosis
Authors: Dasari Sowjanya , Naha Kushal , Hande Manjunath , Vivek G
Published: August 2013

We report the case of a 27-year-old man, presenting with one episode of massive haematemesis and a history of persistent eosinophilia for the past 8 months. An evaluation revealed hepatic cirrhosis with portal hypertension, secondary to chronic Budd-Chiari syndrome. Further investigations confirmed a diagnosis of hypereosinophilic syndrome. Molecular genetic analysis was negative for FIP1L1-PDGFRA gene rearrangement, but positive for JAK2V617F mutation.
Substandard and counterfeit medicines: a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Almuzaini Tariq , Choonara Imti , Sammons Helen
Published: August 2013

Objective

To explore the evidence available of poor-quality (counterfeit and substandard) medicines in the literature.

Design

Systematic review.

Data sources

Databases used were EMBASE, MEDLINE, PubMed and the International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, including articles published till January 2013.

Eligibility criteria

Prevalence studies containing original data. WHO definitions (1992) used for counterfeit and substandard medicines.

Study appraisal and synthesis

Two reviewers independently scored study methodology against recommendations from the MEDQUARG Checklist. Studies were classified according to the World Bank classification of countries by income.

Data extraction

Data extracted: place of study; type of drugs sampled; sample size; percentage of substandard/counterfeit medicines; formulations included; origin of the drugs; chemical analysis and stated issues of counterfeit/substandard medicines.

Results

44 prevalence studies were identified, 15 had good methodological quality. They were conducted in 25 different countries; the majority were in low-income countries (11) and/or lower middle-income countries (10). The median prevalence of substandard/counterfeit medicines was 28.5% (range 11–48%). Only two studies differentiated between substandard and counterfeit medicines. Prevalence data were limited to antimicrobial drugs (all 15 studies). 13 studies involved antimalarials, 6 antibiotics and 2 other medications. The majority of studies (93%) contained samples with inadequate amounts of active ingredients. The prevalence of substandard/counterfeit antimicrobials was significantly higher when purchased from unlicensed outlets (p<0.000; 95% CI 0.21 to 0.32). No individual data about the prevalence in upper middle-income countries and high-income countries were available.

Limitations

Studies with strong methodology were few. The majority did not differentiate between substandard and counterfeit medicines. Most studies assessed only a single therapeutic class of antimicrobials.

Conclusions

The prevalence of poor-quality antimicrobial medicines is widespread throughout Africa and Asia in lower income countries and lower middle-income countries . The main problem identified was inadequate amounts of the active ingredients.
Changing associations of episiotomy and anal sphincter injury across risk strata: results of a population-based register study in Finland 2004–2011
Authors: Räisänen Sari , Cartwright Rufus , Gissler Mika , Kramer Michael R , Laine Katariina , Jouhki Maija-Riitta , Heinonen Seppo
Published: August 2013

Objectives

To evaluate the changing association between lateral episiotomy and obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASIS) for women with low and high baseline risk of OASIS.

Design

A population-based register study.

Setting

Data gathered from the Finnish Medical Birth Register for the years 2004−2011.

Participants

All women with spontaneous vaginal or vacuum-assisted singleton births in Finland (n=384 638).

Main outcome measure

OASIS incidence.

Results

During the study period, the incidence of OASIS increased from 1.3% to 1.7% in women with first vaginal births, including women admitted for first vaginal birth after a prior caesarean section and from 0.1% to 0.3% in women with at least one prior birth, whereas episiotomy rates declined from 56.7% to 45.5% and 10.1– 5.3%, respectively. At the study onset, when episiotomy was used more widely, it was negatively associated with OASIS in women with first vaginal births, but as episiotomy use declined it became positively associated with OASIS. Women with episiotomy were complicated by OASIS with clearly higher risk scores than women without episiotomy suggesting that episiotomy was clearly protective against OASIS. OASIS occurred with lower mean risk scores among women with and without episiotomy over time. However, OASIS incidences increased only among women with episiotomy, whereas it decreased or remained among women without episiotomy.

Conclusions

The cross-over effect between episiotomy and OASIS could be explained by increasing disparity in baseline OASIS risk between treated and untreated women, since episiotomy use declined most in women at low OASIS risk. Episiotomy rate can be safely reduced in low-risk women but interestingly along with the policy change the practice to cut the episiotomy became less protective among high-risk women.
To develop and measure the effectiveness and acceptability of a pharmacy-based chlamydia screening intervention in Australia
Authors: Gudka Sajni , Marshall Lewis , Creagh Alison , Clifford Rhonda M
Published: August 2013

Objectives

To develop and measure the effectiveness and acceptability of a pharmacy-based chlamydia screening intervention called Emergency Contraception Mediated Pharmacy Access to Chlamydia Testing (ECOMPACT).

Design

Selective, opportunistic and cross-sectional study targeting asymptomatic women requesting emergency contraception (EC).

Setting

20 community pharmacies in the Perth metropolitan region, Australia.

Methods

ECOMAPCT was developed through literature review and stakeholder consensus. Pharmacists were trained to offer ECOMPACT after the EC consultation. Women with signs and symptoms of sexually transmitted infections (STI) were referred to a physician for a full sexual health check. Asymptomatic women were offered a free ECOMPACT testing kit. The women self-collected a low-vaginal swab and returned their pathological specimen to designated drop-off sites. A pathology service analysed the specimens and sent the results to a sexual health physician. The effectiveness of ECOMPACT was determined by the uptake of the intervention and how well the target population was reached. An effective screening rate was calculated. Qualitative analysis was undertaken to understand acceptability issues from the perspective of the consumer and the pharmacists.

Results

Of the 769 EC consultations in a 6-month period, 569 (78%) women were given information on chlamydia screening. All 247 (41%) agreed to participate. 81 (33%) of these women were ineligible. They were either symptomatic (n=33; 41%), or were under 18 years of age (n=48; 59%). Pharmacists successfully requested 166 (67%) pathology tests, of which 46 (28%) were returned to a pathology drop-off site. All tested negative forChlamydia trachomatis. The effective screening rate was 6%. Consumers and pharmacists considered ECOMPACT to be highly convenient and the time taken to offer a chlamydia test along with an EC consultation as highly appropriate.

Conclusions

ECOMPACT was found to be simple, effective and acceptable. Given the opportunity, adequate training and support, community pharmacists in Australia were capable of requesting direct-to-consumer chlamydia tests.
Living with economic hardship at the end of life
Authors: Essue Beverley M , Beaton Angela , Hull Catherine , Belfrage John , Thompson Shannon , Meachen Michele , Gillespie James A
Published: August 2013

Background

Dying patients and their families often face an added burden of economic hardship, especially if they have become ill in the years before expected retirement. In Australia, patients can fall through the cracks of the national system of social protection because there are gaps in the access to and provision of healthcare and social assistance at the end of life.

Design

A mixed-method, prospective case study of individuals and their family carers, recruited from a specialist palliative care service in Melbourne, Australia, is presented. Participants were interviewed and followed up over 6 months and completed a 2-week diary of all services used and out-of-pocket costs.

Results

Mean out-of-pocket spending was $A369 per month (median: $A176, IQR: 356) ($A1=US$1=€0.73=£0.62; January 2011). Households with economic hardship were more likely to have a patient who was male, had ceased paid employment earlier than expected due to illness, reported a reduction in income due to illness, had less access to financial resources and used significantly fewer health-related community services. Three factors shaped the participants’ experience of hardship: (1) the premature loss of employment capacity and income; (2) the affordability of care and; (3) a welfare system that could not accommodate their complex needs.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate the multidimensional nature of the economic burden experienced at the end of life and imply the need for nuanced solutions to better support patients and their families. If terminally ill people wish to die at home and are to be supported to do so, policies must take account of the shift in economic burden from the health system onto families.