bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nocardia species: host-parasite relationships
Authors: Beaman B L , Beaman L
Published: June 2016

The nocardiae are bacteria belonging to the aerobic actinomycetes. They are an important part of the normal soil microflora worldwide. The type species, Nocardia asteroides, and N. brasiliensis, N. farcinica, N. otitidiscaviarum, N. nova, and N. transvalensis cause a variety of diseases in both normal and immunocompromised humans and animals. The mechanisms of pathogenesis are complex, not fully understood, and include the capacity to evade or neutralize the myriad microbicidal activities of the host. The relative virulence of N. asteroides correlates with the ability to inhibit phagosome-lysosome fusion in phagocytes; to neutralize phagosomal acidification; to detoxify the microbicidal products of oxidative metabolism; to modify phagocyte function; to grow within phagocytic cells; and to attach to, penetrate, and grow within host cells. Both activated macrophages and immunologically specific T lymphocytes constitute the major mechanisms for host resistance to nocardial infection, whereas B lymphocytes and humoral immunity do not appear to be as important in protecting the host. Thus, the nocardiae are facultative intracellular pathogens that can persist within the host, probably in a cryptic form (L-form), for life. Silent invasion of brain cells by some Nocardia strains can induce neurodegeneration in experimental animals; however, the role of nocardiae in neurodegenerative diseases in humans needs to be investigated.
Biology of parainfluenza viruses
Authors: Vainionpää R , Hyypiä T
Published: June 2016

Parainfluenza virus types 1 to 4 (PIV1 to PIV4) are important human pathogens that cause upper and lower respiratory tract infections, especially in infants and children. PIV1, PIV2, and PIV3 are second only to respiratory syncytial virus as a cause of croup in young children. Although some clinical symptoms are typical of PIVs, etiologic diagnosis always requires detection of infectious virus, viral components, or an antibody response. PIVs are typical paramyxoviruses, causing a syncytial cytopathic effect in cell cultures; virus growth can be confirmed either by hemadsorption or by using immunological reagents. Currently, PIV is most often diagnosed by demonstrating viral antigens in clinical specimens by rapid and highly sensitive immunoassays. More recently, PCR has been used for the detection of PIVs. Serological diagnosis is made by detecting a rising titer of immunoglobulin G or by demonstrating immunoglobulin M antibodies. PIVs infect species other than humans, and animal models are used to study the pathogenesis of PIV infections and to test candidate vaccines. Accumulating knowledge on the molecular structure and mechanisms of replication of PIVs has accelerated research on prevention and treatment. Several strategies for vaccine development, such as the use of live attenuated, inactivated, recombinant, and subunit vaccines, have been investigated, and it may become possible to prevent PIV infections in the near future.
Molecular adjuvants and immunomodulators: new approaches to immunization
Authors: Johnson A G
Published: June 2016

Epitopes on microbial antigens responsible for protective immunity have begun to be identified and isolated, and their chemical structures have been determined. Ensuing knowledge of their weak immunizing capacity per se has led to an appreciation of the need for adjuvants to increase the immunogenicity of these low-molecular-weight synthetic structures. As such, a recent surge in adjuvant research has emerged. Accordingly, this review will highlight a number of those adjuvant substances whose activity in animals indicates a potential use in human vaccines. In addition, the potential of several well-defined substances, termed immunomodulators, which nonspecifically stimulate resistance of animals to multiple 50% lethal doses of microbial challenge is described. Among the most extensively characterized adjuvants of microbial origin discussed in detail are (i) the lipopolysaccharides isolated from gram-negative bacteria and their nontoxic analogs, (ii) the synthetic muramyl dipeptides and their multiple analogs, and (iii) the synthetic polyribonucleotide complexes, mimicking the interferon-inducing capacity of viruses. Discussed also are the heat-labile enterotoxin of Escherichia coli, the nonionic block copolymers, the saponins, a quinolamine derivative, and the hormone dihydroepiandrosterone.
Malaria vaccine development
Authors: Jones T R , Hoffman S L
Published: June 2016

The malaria parasite life cycle presents several targets for attack, but these different parts of the life cycle are susceptible to different types of host immune response. For example, the sporozoite is most sensitive to immune antibody, while liver stage parasites can be eliminated by cytotoxic T lymphocytes. Attachment of merozoites to erythrocytes, on the other hand, can be blocked by antibody. Convincing experimental evidence shows that completely protective immunity to malaria can be induced. The challenge now is to design recombinant or synthetic vaccines that induce the right types of immune responses to specific life cycle stages. This requires the identification and characterization of B- and T-lymphocyte epitopes expressed by the parasite or by parasitized host cells. These epitopes must be incorporated into a delivery system that maximizes the interaction between the vaccine epitopes and the host immune system. Many epitopes from several parts of the life cycle are already characterized; development of multivalent vaccines, that is, vaccines which contain immunogens from more than one part of the life cycle, is a promising area for research efforts.
Use of ribotyping in epidemiological surveillance of nosocomial outbreaks
Authors: Bingen E H , Denamur E , Elion J
Published: June 2016

Over the past few years, genotypic methods based on the study of bacterial DNA polymorphism have shown high discriminatory power for strain differentiation and superiority over most phenotypic methods commonly available in the clinical microbiology laboratory. Some of the methods used, however, required either a high level of technology and sophisticated equipment (e.g., pulsed-field gel electrophoresis) or species-specific reagents of restricted availability (randomly cloned DNA probes or gene-specific probes). Because ribotyping uses a universal probe (rRNA) and is a rather simple technology, particularly since the advent of nonradioactive labelling systems, it has been widely used for strain differentiation of most bacterial species involved in nosocomial outbreaks. In vitro and in vivo stability of the markers studied has been demonstrated. Although there may be limitation to this approach, ribotyping was found to be highly discriminative, particularly for typing members of the family Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonas cepacia, and Xanthomonas maltophilia. In many cases, it has improved the understanding of the mechanism of nosocomial acquisition of organisms by allowing a distinction between endogenous and exogenous infections. Among exogenous infections, it has distinguished between individual and epidemic strains, thus differentiating cross-infection from independent acquisition.
The medically important aerobic actinomycetes: epidemiology and microbiology
Authors: McNeil M M , Brown J M
Published: June 2016

The aerobic actinomycetes are soil-inhabiting microorganisms that occur worldwide. In 1888, Nocard first recognized the pathogenic potential of this group of microorganisms. Since then, several aerobic actinomycetes have been a major source of interest for the commercial drug industry and have proved to be extremely useful microorganisms for producing novel antimicrobial agents. They have also been well known as potential veterinary pathogens affecting many different animal species. The medically important aerobic actinomycetes may cause significant morbidity and mortality, in particular in highly susceptible severely immunocompromised patients, including transplant recipients and patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus. However, the diagnosis of these infections may be difficult, and effective antimicrobial therapy may be complicated by antimicrobial resistance. The taxonomy of these microorganisms has been problematic. In recent revisions of their classification, new pathogenic species have been recognized. The development of additional and more reliable diagnostic tests and of a standardized method for antimicrobial susceptibility testing and the application of molecular techniques for the diagnosis and subtyping of these microorganisms are needed to better diagnose and treat infected patients and to identify effective control measures for these unusual pathogens. We review the epidemiology and microbiology of the major medically important aerobic actinomycetes.
Human microsporidial infections
Authors: Weber R , Bryan R T , Schwartz D A , Owen R L
Published: June 2016

Microsporidia are obligate intracellular spore-forming protozoal parasites belonging to the phylum Microspora. Their host range is extensive, including most invertebrates and all classes of vertebrates. More than 100 microsporidial genera and almost 1,000 species have now been identified. Five genera (Enterocytozoon spp., Encephalitozoon spp., Septata spp., Pleistophora sp., and Nosema spp.) and unclassified microsporidia (referred to by the collective term Microsporidium) have been associated with human disease, which appears to manifest primarily in immunocompromised persons. The clinical manifestations of microsporidiosis are diverse and include intestinal, pulmonary, ocular, muscular, and renal disease. Among persons not infected with human immunodeficiency virus, ten cases of microsporidiosis have been documented. In human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients, on the other hand, over 400 cases of microsporidiosis have been identified, the majority attributed to Enterocytozoon bieneusi, an important cause of chronic diarrhea and wasting. Diagnosis of microsporidiosis currently depends on morphological demonstration of the organisms themselves. Initial detection of microsporidia by light microscopic examination of tissue sections and of more readily obtainable specimens such as stool, duodenal aspirates, urine, sputum, nasal discharge, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, and conjunctival smears is now becoming routine practice. Definitive species identification is made by using the specific fluorescein-tagged antibody (immunofluorescence) technique or electron microscopy. Treatment options are limited, but symptomatic improvement of Enterocytozoon bieneusi infection may be achieved with the anthelmintic-antiprotozoal drug albendazole. Preliminary observations suggest that Septata intestinalis and Encephalitozoon infections may be cured with albendazole. Progress is being made with respect to in vitro propagation of microsporidia, which is crucial for developing antimicrosporidial drugs. Furthermore, molecular techniques are being developed for diagnostic purposes, taxonomic classification, and analysis of phylogenetic relationships of microsporidia.
Taxonomy, biology, and clinical aspects of Fusarium species
Authors: Nelson P E , Dignani M C , Anaissie E J
Published: June 2016

There are several taxonomic systems available for identifying Fusarium species. The philosophy used in each taxonomic system is discussed as well as problems encountered in working with Fusarium species in culture. Fusarium species are toxigenic, and the mycotoxins produced by these organisms are often associated with animal and human diseases. The implications for the association of the carcinogens, fumonisins, produced by Fusarium moniliforme and other Fusarium species with human diseases are discussed. Foreign-body-associated fusarial infection such as keratitis in contact lens wearers, onychomycosis, skin infections, and disseminated multiorgan infections are discussed. Disseminated fusarial hyalohyphomycosis has emerged as a significant, usually fatal infection in the immunocompromised host. Successful outcome is determined by the degree of immunosuppression, the extent of the infection, and the presence of a removable focus such as an indwelling central venous catheter. These infections may be clinically suspected on the basis of a constellation of clinical and laboratory findings, which should lead to prompt therapy, probably with one of the newer antifungal agents. Perhaps the use of such agents or the use of colony-stimulating factors may improve the outcome of this devastating infection. However, until new approaches for treatment develop, effective preventive measures are urgently needed.
Hepatitis C: progress and problems
Authors: Cuthbert J A
Published: June 2016

The hepatitis C virus (HCV), a single-stranded RNA virus, is the major cause of posttransfusion hepatitis. HCV isolates differ in nucleotide and amino acid sequences. Nucleotide changes are concentrated in hypervariable regions and may be related to immune selection. In most immunocompetent persons, HCV infection is diagnosed serologically, using antigens from conserved regions. Amplification of RNA may be necessary to detect infection in immunosuppressed patients. Transmission by known parenteral routes is frequent; other means of spread are less common and may represent inapparent, percutaneous dissemination. Infection can lead to classical acute hepatitis, but most infected persons have no history of acute disease. Once infected, most individuals apparently remain carriers of the virus, with varying degrees of hepatocyte damage and fibrosis ensuing. Chronic hepatitis may lead to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. However, disease progression varies widely, from less than 2 years to cirrhosis in some patients to more than 30 years with only chronic hepatitis in others. Determinants important in deciding outcome are unknown. Alpha interferon, which results in sustained remission in selected patients, is the only available therapy. Long-term benefits from such therapy have not been demonstrated. Prevention of HCV infection by vaccination is likely to be challenging if ongoing viral mutation results in escape from neutralization and clearance.
Current status of meningococcal group B vaccine candidates: capsular or noncapsular?
Authors: Diaz Romero J , Outschoorn I M
Published: June 2016

Meningococcal meningitis is a severe, life-threatening infection for which no adequate vaccine exists. Current vaccines, based on the group-specific capsular polysaccharides, provide short-term protection in adults against serogroups A and C but are ineffective in infants and do not induce protection against group B strains, the predominant cause of infection in western countries, because the purified serogroup B polysaccharide fails to elicit human bactericidal antibodies. Because of the poor immunogenicity of group B capsular polysaccharide, different noncapsular antigens have been considered for inclusion in a vaccine against this serogroup: outer membrane proteins, lipooligosaccharides, iron-regulated proteins, Lip, pili, CtrA, and the immunoglobulin A proteases. Alternatively, attempts to increase the immunogenicity of the capsular polysaccharide have been made by using noncovalent complexes with outer membrane proteins, chemical modifications, and structural analogs. Here, we review the strategies employed for the development of a vaccine for Neisseria meningitidis serogroup B; the difficulties associated with the different approaches are discussed.
Evaluation of the Whole-Blood Alere Q NAT Point-of-Care RNA Assay for HIV-1 Viral Load Monitoring in a Primary Health Care Setting in Mozambique
Authors: Jani Ilesh V. , Meggi Bindiya , Vubil Adolfo , Sitoe Nádia E. , Bhatt Nilesh , Tobaiwa Ocean , Quevedo Jorge I. , Loquiha Osvaldo , Lehe Jonathan D. , Vojnov Lara , Peter Trevor F.
Published: June 2016

Viral load testing is the WHO-recommended monitoring assay for patients on HIV antiretroviral therapy (ART). Point-of-care (POC) assays may help improve access to viral load testing in resource-limited settings. We compared the performance of the Alere Q NAT POC viral load technology (Alere Technologies, Jena, Germany), measuring total HIV RNA using finger prick capillary whole-blood samples collected in a periurban health center, with that of a laboratory-based plasma RNA test (Roche Cobas Ampliprep/Cobas TaqMan v2) conducted on matched venous blood samples. The whole-blood Alere Q NAT POC assay produced results with a bias of 0.8593 log copy/ml compared to the laboratory-based plasma assay. However, at above 10,000 copies/ml, the bias was 0.07 log copy/ml. Using the WHO-recommended threshold to determine ART failure of 1,000 copies/ml, the sensitivity and specificity of the whole-blood Alere Q NAT POC assay were 96.83% and 47.80%, respectively. A cutoff of 10,000 copies/ml of whole blood with the Alere Q NAT POC assay appears to be a better predictor of ART failure threshold (1,000 copies/ml of plasma), with a sensitivity of 84.0% and specificity of 90.3%. The precision of the whole-blood Alere Q NAT POC assay was comparable to that observed with the laboratory technology (5.4% versus 7.5%) between detectable paired samples. HIV POC viral load testing is feasible at the primary health care level. Further research on the value of whole-blood viral load to monitor antiretroviral therapy is warranted.
Phylogenetic Analysis of Enteroaggregative Escherichia coli (EAEC) Isolates from Japan Reveals Emergence of CTX-M-14-Producing EAEC O25:H4 Clones Related to Sequence Type 131
Authors: Imuta Naoko , Ooka Tadasuke , Seto Kazuko , Kawahara Ryuji , Koriyama Toyoyasu , Kojyo Tsuyoshi , Iguchi Atsushi , Tokuda Koichi , Kawamura Hideki , Yoshiie Kiyotaka , Ogura Yoshitoshi , Hayashi Tetsuya , Nishi Junichiro
Published: June 2016

EnteroaggregativeEscherichia coli(EAEC) causes acute or persistent diarrhea. TheaggRgene is widely used as a marker for typical EAEC. The heterogeneity of EAEC is well known; however, there are few reports on the phylogenetic relationships of EAEC. Recently, CTX-M extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing EAEC strains have been reported worldwide. To characterize EAEC strains in Japan, we investigated the population structure of EAEC. A total of 167aggR-positive strains isolated from stool specimens from diarrheal patients in Kagoshima (139 strains) and Osaka (28 strains), Japan, between 1992 and 2010 were examined for the prevalence of EAEC virulence markers, theblaCTX-Mgene, and the capacity to form biofilms. Multilocus sequence typing was also conducted. EAEC strains were widely distributed across four majorE. coliphylogroups. Strains of O111:H21/clonal group 40 (CG40) (30 strains), O126:H27/CG200 (13 strains), and O86a:H27/CG3570 (11 strains) in phylogroup B1 are the historical EAEC clones in Japan, and they exhibited strong biofilm formation. Twenty-nine strains of EAEC O25:H4/CG131 were identified in phylogroup B2, 79% of which produced CTX-M-14. This clone has emerged since 2003. The clone harbored plasmid-encoded EAEC virulence genes but not chromosomal virulence genes and had lower biofilm-forming capacity than historical EAEC strains. This clone most likely emerged from a pandemic uropathogenic O25:H4/sequence type 131 clone by acquiring an EAEC virulence plasmid from canonical EAEC. Surveillance of the horizontal transfer of both virulence and ESBL genes amongE. colistrains is important for preventing a worldwide increase in antimicrobial drug resistance.
Performance of Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization−Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry for Identification of Aspergillus, Scedosporium, and Fusarium spp. in the Australian Clinical Setting
Authors: Sleiman Sue , Halliday Catriona L. , Chapman Belinda , Brown Mitchell , Nitschke Joanne , Lau Anna F. , Chen Sharon C.-A.
Published: June 2016

We developed an Australian database for the identification of
Aspergillus
,
Scedosporium
, and
Fusarium
species (
n
= 28) by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization−time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). In a challenge against 117 isolates, species identification significantly improved when the in-house-built database was combined with the Bruker Filamentous Fungi Library compared with that for the Bruker library alone (
Aspergillus
, 93% versus 69%;
Fusarium
, 84% versus 42%; and
Scedosporium
, 94% versus 18%, respectively).
Prosthetic Vascular Graft Infections: Bacterial Cultures from Negative-Pressure-Wound-Therapy Foams Do Not Improve Diagnostics
Authors: Scherrer Alexandra U. , Bloemberg Guido , Zbinden Reinhard , Zinkernagel Annelies S. , Fuchs Claudio , Frauenfelder Sandra , Rancic Zoran , Mayer Dieter , Hasse Barbara ,   VASGRA Cohort
Published: June 2016

We analyzed the diagnostic value of microorganisms cultured from negative-pressure-wound-therapy (NPWT) foam samples compared to that of microorganisms cultured from deep tissue samples from patients with vascular graft infections. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were 58%, 86%, 81%, and 66%, respectively. The diagnostic value of microbiological cultures from NPWT foams was poor.
Plasticity of Candida albicans Biofilms
Authors: Soll David R. , Daniels Karla J.
Published: June 2016

Candida albicans
, the most pervasive fungal pathogen that colonizes humans, forms biofilms that are architecturally complex. They consist of a basal yeast cell polylayer and an upper region of hyphae encapsulated in extracellular matrix. However, biofilms formed
in vitro
vary as a result of the different conditions employed in models, the methods used to assess biofilm formation, strain differences, and, in a most dramatic fashion, the configuration of the mating type locus (
MTL
). Therefore, integrating data from different studies can lead to problems of interpretation if such variability is not taken into account. Here we review the conditions and factors that cause biofilm variation, with the goal of engendering awareness that more attention must be paid to the strains employed, the methods used to assess biofilm development, every aspect of the model employed, and the configuration of the
MTL
locus. We end by posing a set of questions that may be asked in comparing the results of different studies and developing protocols for new ones. This review should engender the notion that not all biofilms are created equal.
U-Pb geochronology of calcite-mineralized faults: Absolute timing of rift-related fault events on the northeast Atlantic margin
Authors: Roberts Nick M.W. , Walker Richard J.
Published: June 2016

Constraining the timing of brittle faulting is critical in understanding crustal deformation and fluid flow, but many regional-scale fault systems lack readily available techniques to provide absolute chronological information. Calcite mineralization occurs in crustal faults in many geological settings and can be suitable for U-Pb geochronology. This application has remained underutilized because traditional bulk dissolution techniques require uncommonly high U concentration. Because U and Pb are distributed heterogeneously throughout calcite crystals, high-spatial-resolution sampling techniques can target domains with high U and variable U/Pb ratios. Here we present a novel application of in-situ laser ablation–inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) to basaltic fault rock geochronology in the Faroe Islands, northeast Atlantic margin. Faults that are kinematically linked to deformation associated with continental break-up were targeted. Acquired ages for fault events range from mid-Eocene to mid-Miocene and are therefore consistently younger than the regional early Eocene onset of ocean spreading, highlighting protracted brittle deformation within the newly developed continental margin. Calcite geochronology from LA-ICP-MS U-Pb analysis represents an important and novel method to constrain the absolute timing of fault and fluid-flow events.
Cryogenian intraplate magmatism along the buried southern Laurentian margin: Evidence from volcanic clasts in Ordovician strata, Marathon uplift, west Texas
Authors: Hanson Richard E. , Roberts Jonathon M. , Dickerson Patricia W. , Fanning C. Mark
Published: June 2016

Critical evidence bearing on the breakup history of the supercontinent Rodinia near the end of the Proterozoic comes from widespread Cryogenian–Cambrian intraplate igneous assemblages present along the margins of cratonic blocks released during Rodinia fragmentation and now distributed around the globe. This magmatism occurred over a long time span (780–540 Ma) prior to and during final stages of Rodinia breakup along the eastern, western, and northern margins of the Laurentia craton, which forms the centerpiece of Rodinia in many reconstructions. Whether similar protracted magmatism occurred prior to the rift-drift transition along the southern Laurentian margin has remained uncertain because of deep burial beneath younger strata. We present geochemical and geochronological data from volcanic clasts within shelf-derived Ordovician turbidites and debris-flow deposits now exposed in allochthonous thrust slices in the Marathon uplift, west Texas (USA), that document one or more episodes of intraplate magmatism extending back at least to 706 Ma along this part of the ancient margin. These data raise the possibility that Laurentia may have been completely encircled by intraplate igneous activity prior to Rodinia breakup, with implications for the driving forces leading to supercontinent fragmentation and factors controlling the sites of ocean-basin formation during that process.
Boy with central precocious puberty probably due to a peripheral cause
Authors: Sahana Pranab Kumar , Gopal Sankar Krishna Shankar , Sengupta Nilanjan , Chattopadhyay Kaustubh
Published: June 2016

A 6½ years Indian boy was brought by his parents, who were anxious about the excessive increase in the size of the boy's phallus, from the age of 2 years. On physical examination, the child had a penis length greater than the 97th centile for age, a sexual maturity rating of gonads at stage 2 and pubic hair at stage 3, with height in the high normal range (90–97th centile). The bone age was 12 years. Laboratory evaluation showed pubertal levels of testosterone and pubertal gonadotropin response to stimulation, confirming central precocious puberty (CPP). Incidentally, the hormonal profile also suggested congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). This case report depicts a case of CPP probably caused by CAH in boys, which is rare.
Association between white blood cell count and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in urban Han Chinese: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Wang Shukang , Zhang Chengqi , Zhang Guang , Yuan Zhongshang , Liu Yanxun , Ding Lijie , Sun Xiubin , Jia Hongying , Xue Fuzhong
Published: June 2016

Objectives

The white blood cell (WBC) count is a simple and convenient marker of inflammation for use in medical practice; however, its association with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has not been determined. We examined the relationship between WBC and NAFLD to provide a convenient and useful marker for the prediction of NAFLD.

Setting

A longitudinal cohort participating in a large health check-up programme for the Chinese population was selected and followed up from 2005 to 2011.

Participants

A total of 21 307 male and female participants without NAFLD who underwent health check-ups at least twice between 2005 and 2011 were included in this study. 15 201 participants (7286 men and 7915 women) were eligible for inclusion.

Results

The baseline distribution of age, WBC, body mass index (BMI), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), serum total protein (TP), albumin (ALB) and globin (GLO) and the prevalence of males, hypertension, hyperglycaemia, smoking and regular exercise were significantly different between the incident NAFLD and non-NAFLD groups (p<0.05). Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was performed to estimate the HRs and 95% CIs of WBC, which predicted the occurrence of NAFLD. Compared with the lowest WBC quartile (Q1), the HRs and 95% CIs of the other WBC quartiles (Q2, Q3 and Q4) for incident NAFLD were 1.090 (0.978 to 1.215), 1.174 (1.055 to 1.305) and 1.152 (1.035 to 1.281), respectively, after adjusting for age, gender, smoking, regular exercise, BMI, hypertension, hyperglycaemia, TC, TG, HDL-C, LDL-C, ALB and GLO.

Conclusions

Our study clearly showed that WBC count was a significant factor associated with incident NAFLD in Han Chinese.
Renoprotective effect of virgin coconut oil in heated palm oil diet-induced hypertensive rats
Authors: Kamisah Yusof , Ang Shu-Min , Othman Faizah , Nurul-Iman Badlishah Sham , Qodriyah Hj Mohd Saad
Published: June 2016

Virgin coconut oil, rich in antioxidants, was shown to attenuate hypertension. This study aimed to investigate the effects of virgin coconut oil on blood pressure and related parameters in kidneys in rats fed with 5-times-heated palm oil (5HPO). Thirty-two male Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into 4 groups. Two groups were fed 5HPO (15%) diet and the second group was also given virgin coconut oil (1.42 mL/kg, oral) daily for 16 weeks. The other 2 groups were given basal diet without (control) and with virgin coconut oil. Systolic blood pressure was measured pre- and post-treatment. After 16 weeks, the rats were sacrificed and kidneys were harvested. Dietary 5HPO increased blood pressure, renal thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS), and nitric oxide contents, but decreased heme oxygenase activity. Virgin coconut oil prevented increase in 5HPO-induced blood pressure and renal nitric oxide content as well as the decrease in renal heme oxygenase activity. The virgin coconut oil also reduced the elevation of renal TBARS induced by the heated oil. However, neither dietary 5HPO nor virgin coconut oil affected renal histomorphometry. In conclusion, virgin coconut oil has a potential to reduce the development of hypertension and renal injury induced by dietary heated oil, possibly via its antioxidant protective effects on the kidneys.
Molecular dynamics of FMRP and other RNA-binding proteins in MEG-01 differentiation: the role of mRNP complexes in non-neuronal development
Authors: McCoy M. , Poliquin-Duchesneau D. , Corbin F.
Published: June 2016

Asymmetrically differentiating cells are formed with the aid of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), which can bind, stabilize, regulate, and transport target mRNAs. The loss of RBPs in neurons may lead to severe neurodevelopmental diseases such as the Fragile X Syndrome with the absence of the Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein (FMRP). Because the latter is ubiquitous and shares many similarities with other RBPs involved in the development of peripheral cells, we suggest that FMRP would have a role in the differentiation of all tissues where it is expressed. A MEG-01 differentiation model was, therefore, established to study the global developmental functions of FMRP. PMA induction of MEG-01 cells causes important morphological changes driven by cytoskeletal dynamics. Cytoskeleton change and colocalization analyses were performed by confocal microscopy and sucrose gradient fractionation. Total cellular protein content and de novo synthesis were also analyzed. Microtubular transport mediates the displacement of FMRP and other RBP-containing mRNP complexes towards regions of the cell in development. De novo protein synthesis decreases significantly upon differentiation and total protein content composition is altered. Because those results are comparable with those obtained in neurons, the absence of FMRP would have significant consequences in cells everywhere in the body. The latter should be further investigated to give a better understanding of the systemic implications of imbalances of FMRP and other functionally similar RBPs.
Downhill progressive landslides in long natural slopes: triggering agents and landslide phases modeled with a finite difference method
Authors: Bernander Stig , Kullingsjö Anders , Gylland Anders S. , Bengtsson Per-Evert , Knutsson Sven , Pusch Roland , Olofsson Jan , Elfgren Lennart
Published: June 2016

A large landslide in Tuve (Gothenburg, Sweden, 1977) initiated the development of a model for slope stability analysis taking the deformation-softening of soft sensitive clays into consideration. The model studies triggering agents and five phases in progressive slope failure are identified: (1) in situ, (2) disturbance, (3) unstable “dynamic”, (4) transitory (or permanent) equilibrium, and (5) “global” failure. The clay resistance in these phases may differ widely; mostly due to different rates of loading. Two time-dependent failure criteria are defined: (i) the triggering load condition in the disturbance phase 2 and (ii) the transitory equilibrium in phase 4, indicating whether minor downhill displacements or a veritable landslide catastrophe will occur. The analysis explains why downhill landslides tend to spread over vast areas of almost horizontal ground further downslope. The model has been applied to landslides in Scandinavia and Canada. Three case studies are briefly discussed. The model is a finite difference approach, where local downhill deformations caused by normal forces is maintained compatible with deviatory shear deformations above — and, if relevant, below — the potential (or the established) failure surface. Software and an easy-to-use spreadsheet are introduced as well as recent developments.
Winter presence and temperature-related diel vertical migration of striped bass (Morone saxatilis) in an extreme high-flow passage in the inner Bay of Fundy
Authors: Keyser Freya M. , Broome Jeremy E. , Bradford Rodney G. , Sanderson Brian , Redden Anna M.
Published: June 2016

During a multiyear fish tracking study, subadult and adult life stages of Shubenacadie River striped bass (Morone saxatilis) were detected throughout winter in the well-mixed, hypertidal waters of the Minas Passage, Bay of Fundy. Thirty-five percent of the striped bass tagged with Vemco V16 transmitters were detected by two Minas Passage receiver arrays. Transmissions were received on 82% of winter days (December to April) and by all receivers spanning the width of the passage. Tagged striped bass were detected largely within the top 20–40 m during the day. The extent of vertical migration to shallower waters at night showed a strong relationship with water temperature; however, there was no diel vertical movement pattern observed at water temperatures <1 °C. Our results demonstrate overwintering of a portion of the Shubenacadie River striped bass population in high-flow inner Bay of Fundy waters, which extends the northern limit of this species’ winter marine range. This study is also the first to describe the relationship between daily vertical migration by striped bass and low water temperatures. Both findings suggest an elevated potential risk of interaction with an in-stream tidal turbine facility in Minas Passage.
Higher-order theories from the minimal length
Authors: Dias M. , Hoff da Silva J. M. , Scatena E.
Published: June 2016

We show that the introduction of a minimal length in the context of noncommutative space–time gives rise (after some considerations) to higher-order theories. We then explicitly demonstrate how these higher-derivative theories appear as a generalization of the standard electromagnetism and general relativity by applying a consistent procedure that modifies the original Maxwell and Einstein–Hilbert actions. In order to set a bound on the minimal length, we compare the deviations from the inverse-square law with the potentials obtained in the higher-order theories and discuss the validity of the results. The introduction of a quantum bound for the minimal length parameter [Formula: see text] in the higher-order QED allows us to lower the actual limits on the parameters of higher-derivative gravity by almost half of their order of magnitude.
Cold molecules: Formation, ro-vibrational cooling and electronic conversion
Authors: Horchani R.
Published: May 2016

The possibility of controlling all the motion as well as the internal quantum state of a sample of molecules is a long term goal in the cold molecules field. Although many different techniques have been used to produce ultra-cold molecules, in this paper, we will concentrate on the optical pumping technique successfully used to achieve rotational and vibrational cooling of Cs2molecules. We will review the different photo-association schemes for molecule formation, the detection schemes through photoionization, the ro-vibrational cooling into a single level and finally the electronic conversion. In addition, we will present a theoretical model for both ro-vibrational cooling and electronic conversion that can be used for the preparation of different experiments.
Structural stabilities, elastic and electronic properties of chromium tetraboride from first-principles calculations
Authors: Xu C. , Li Q. , Liu C. M. , Duan M. Y. , Wang H. K.
Published: May 2016

First-principles calculations are employed to investigate the structural and elastic properties, formation enthalpies and chemical bonding features as well as hardness values of chromium tetraboride [Formula: see text] with different structures. The lattice parameters, Poisson’s ratio and [Formula: see text] ratio are also derived. Our calculations indicate that the orthorhombic structure with Pnnm symmetry is the most energetically stable one for CrB4. Except for [Formula: see text] structure with imaginary frequencies, another six new structures are investigated through the full phonon dispersion calculations. Their mechanical and thermodynamic stabilities are also studied by calculating the elastic constants and formation enthalpies. Our calculations show that the thermodynamic stabilities of all these [Formula: see text] phases can be enhanced under high pressure. The large shear moduli, Young’s moduli and hardness values indicate that these [Formula: see text] phases are potential hard materials. Analyses of the densities of states (DOSs) and electron localization functions (ELFs) provide further understandings of the chemical and physical properties of these [Formula: see text] phases. It is observed that the large occupations and high strengths of the B–B covalent bonds are important for the stabilities, incompressibility and hardnesses of these [Formula: see text] phases.
A note on the stability of g-frames in Hilbert C*-modules
Authors: Xiang Zhong-Qi
Published: May 2016

Recently, Rashidi-Kouchi et al. devoted their efforts to giving analogs of the Casazza–Christensen general perturbation theorem of Hilbert space frames for the case of g-frames in Hilbert C*-modules. We found, however, that in the proof they did not obtain the lower bound inequality of g-frames in Hilbert C*-modules. In this paper, we establish an equivalent definition of g-frames in Hilbert C*-modules, using it we present a complete proof for the stability result given by them.
Entrepreneurs, Art and Innovation
Authors: van der Meer Han
Published: May 2016

Research on the opportunity recognition stage in the process of entrepreneurships is still in an early stage. This paper is covering the possibility of art as being one of the inspirational sources for entrepreneurs. Once aware of it, an unavoidable observation seems to be: innovative entrepreneurs love art. But is this true? And if it is true what can be the reasons for entrepreneurs to love art? This paper will address these questions by analyzing the data from a project with nine entrepreneurs and nine artists followed by interviews of 14 art-loving entrepreneurs and managers.
China’s Inter-Regional Trade of Virtual Water — A Multi-Regional Input–Output Table Based Analysis
Authors: Zhao Xueting , Jackson Randall W.
Published: May 2016

The success of China’s economic development has brought increasing pressures on its water resources, motivating it to better understand water use characteristics and how scarce water resources are transferred among regions. Virtual water is a term used to refer to the volume of freshwater consumed for producing traded goods and services. It reflects the actual human consumption of water resources and therefore is important for water resources management. The goal of this paper is to evaluate the current inter-regional virtual water trade (VWT) structure and to assess the implications of these trade patterns for water use and water conservation strategies in China. Based on the most recently available multi-regional input–output (MRIO) data, we have developed an extended inter-regional input–output (IRIO) model for eight economic regions in China to account for virtual water flows. The findings show that water use efficiency has increased over the years, but it is still unbalanced among the regions. The total amount of VWT has increased, and the major source of the trade is domestic inter-regional trade, especially intermediate products trade. Moreover, the main direction of virtual water transfer is from water-poor inland regions to water-rich regions, which is unfavorable for water resource allocation and efficiency. Therefore, in addition to enhancing water use efficiency and encouraging water-saving production alternatives, we suggest that China’s government should also adopt a market-based water pricing system.
On Lions, Impala, and Bigraphs
Authors: Benford Steve , Calder Muffy , Rodden Tom , Sevegnani Michele
Published: May 2016

While HCI has a long tradition of formally modelling task-based interactions with graphical user interfaces, there has been less progress in modelling emerging ubiquitous computing systems due in large part to their highly contextual nature and dependence on unreliable sensing systems. We present an exploration of modelling an example ubiquitous system, the Savannah game, using the mathematical formalism of bigraphs, which are based on a universal process algebra that encapsulates both dynamic and spatial behaviour of autonomous agents that interact and move among each other, or within each other. We establish a modelling approach based on four perspectives on ubiquitous systems—Computational, Physical, Human, and Technology—and explore how these interact with one another. We show how our model explains observed inconsistencies in user trials of Savannah, and then, how formal analysis reveals an incompleteness in design and guides extensions of the model and/or possible system re-design to resolve this.
Power, Area, and Performance Optimization of Standard Cell Memory Arrays Through Controlled Placement
Authors: Teman Adam , Rossi Davide , Meinerzhagen Pascal , Benini Luca , Burg Andreas
Published: May 2016

Embedded memory remains a major bottleneck in current integrated circuit design in terms of silicon area, power dissipation, and performance; however, static random access memories (SRAMs) are almost exclusively supplied by a small number of vendors through memory generators, targeted at rather generic design specifications. As an alternative, standard cell memories (SCMs) can be defined, synthesized, and placed and routed as an integral part of a given digital system, providing complete design flexibility, good energy efficiency, low-voltage operation, and even area efficiency for small memory blocks. Yet implementing an SCM block with a standard digital flow often fails to exploit the distinct and regular structure of such an array, leaving room for optimization. In this article, we present a design methodology for optimizing the physical implementation of SCM macros as part of the standard design flow. This methodology introduces controlled placement, leading to a structured, noncongested layout with close to 100% placement utilization, resulting in a smaller silicon footprint, reduced wire length, and lower power consumption compared to SCMs without controlled placement. This methodology is demonstrated on SCM macros of various sizes and aspect ratios in a state-of-the-art 28nm fully depleted silicon-on-insulator technology, and compared with equivalent macros designed with the noncontrolled, standard flow, as well as with foundry-supplied SRAM macros. The controlled SCMs provide an average 25% reduction in area as compared to noncontrolled implementations while achieving a smaller size than SRAM macros of up to 1Kbyte. Power and performance comparisons of controlled SCM blocks of a commonly found 256 × 32 (1 Kbyte) memory with foundry-provided SRAMs show greater than 65% and 10% reduction in read and write power, respectively, while providing faster access than their SRAM counterparts, despite being of an aspect ratio that is typically unfavorable for SCMs. In addition, the SCM blocks function correctly with a supply voltage as low as 0.3V, well below the lower limit of even the SRAM macros optimized for low-voltage operation. The controlled placement methodology is applied within a full-chip physical implementation flow of an OpenRISC-based test chip, providing more than 50% power reduction compared to equivalently sized compiled SRAMs under a benchmark application.
State Assignment and Optimization of Ultra-High-Speed FSMs Utilizing Tristate Buffers
Authors: Czerwinski Robert , Kania Dariusz
Published: May 2016

The logic synthesis of ultra-high-speed FSMs is presented. The state assignment is based on a well-known method that uses output vectors. This technique is adjusted to include elements of two-level minimization and takes into account the limited number of terms contained in the programmable-AND/fixed-OR logic cell. The state assignment is based on a special form of the binary decision tree. The second phase of the FSM design is logic optimization. The optimization method is based on tristate buffers, thus making possible a one-logic-level FSM structure. The key point is to search partition variables that control the tristate buffers. This technique can also be applied to combinational circuits or the output block of FSMs only.

Algorithms for state assignment and optimization are presented and richly illustrated by examples. The method is dedicated to using specific features of complex programmable logic devices. Experimental results prove its effectiveness (e.g., the implementation of the the 16-bit counter requires 136 logic cells and one-logic-cell level instead of 213 cells and four levels). The optimization method using tristate buffers and a state assignment binary decision tree can be directly applied to FPGA-dedicated logic synthesis.
Data Sharing and Access
Authors: Karr Alan F.
Published: June 2016

Data sharing and access are venerable problems embedded in a rapidly changing milieu. Pressure points include the increasingly data-driven nature of science, the volume, complexity, and distributed nature of data, new concerns regarding privacy and confidentiality, and rising attention to reproducibility of research. In the context of research data, this review surveys extant technologies, articulates a number of identified and emerging issues, and outlines one path for the future. Recognizing that data availability is a public good, research data archives can provide economic and scientific value to both data generators and data consumers in a way that engenders trust. The overall framework is statistical—the use of data for inference.