bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermal thresholds of the predatory mite Balaustium hernandezi
Authors: Coombs Megan R. , Bale Jeffrey S.
Published: May 2014

The lower and upper thermal activity thresholds of adult and larval Balaustium hernandezi von Heyden (Acari: Erythraeidae) are compared with those of its prey Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae). Adult female B. hernandezi retain ambulatory function (CTmin) and movement of appendages (chill coma) at significantly lower temperatures (5.9 and −2.1 °C, respectively) than those of larval B. hernandezi (8.1 and −1.7 °C) and T. urticae (10.6 and 10.3 °C). There is no significant difference between the temperature at which adult and larval B. hernandezi and T. urticae cease walking as the temperature is raised (CTmax) (46.7, 46.3 and 47.3 °C, respectively). However, both life stages of B. hernandezi cease movement (heat coma) below the upper locomotory limits of T. urticae (46.8, 46.7 and 48.7 °C, respectively). Adult B. hernandezi have significantly faster walking speeds than larvae and T. urticae across a range of temperatures. The lower thermal activity threshold data indicate that B. hernandezi would make an effective biological control agent in temperate climates; however, the extent of the low temperature tolerances of the species suggests the potential to establish in a northern European climate.
Chemical aspects of host‐acceptance behaviour in the bird cherry‐oat aphid Rhopalosiphum padi: host‐acceptance signals used by different morphs with the same genotype
Authors: Nam Ki Jung , Hardie Jim
Published: May 2014

Host acceptance by gynoparae and winged virginoparae of the bird cherry‐oat aphid Rhopalosiphum padi (L.) is investigated utilizing leaves and aqueous extracts of the primary and secondary hosts, as well as nonhost plants. Gynoparae are specialized to reproduce on bird cherry Prunus padus L., whereas virginoparae reproduce and feed on various grasses. Host acceptance is assessed using levels of reproduction and survival for adults, as well as survival for nymphs. Little is known of host acceptance by nymphs. The data show that gynoparae and winged virginoparae produce nymphs almost exclusively on their host plants, bird cherry and barley leaves, respectively, over 72 h. When tested with aqueous plant extracts, however, gynoparae produce nymphs almost exclusively on bird cherry extract and progeny numbers are found to be similar to those on plant leaves. Few nymphs are produced on artificial diet. By contrast, winged virginoparae produce nymphs on aqueous extracts of barley, bird cherry and bean, as well as on artificial diet. The numbers of nymphs deposited by gynoparae are similar on aqueous extracts of bird cherry leaves collected at different times during the growing season. When extracts from leaves of various Prunus species are tested, only leaves of P. padus and Prunus virginiana stimulate parturition. Oviparae, the sexual female nymphs of gynoparae, survive well for 96 h on both bird cherry and barley leaves but not on bean seedlings, whereas nymphs of winged virginoparae survive well only on barley leaves. They do not survive for 96 h on any plant‐leaf extracts, although they do survive on artificial diet.
Quinine and artesunate inhibit feeding in the African malaria mosquito Anopheles gambiae: the role of gustatory organs within the mouthparts
Authors: Kessler Sébastien , González Julia , Vlimant Michèle , Glauser Gaétan , Guerin Patrick M.
Published: May 2014

A membrane feeding assay in which the effects of the antimalarial drugs quinine and artesunate are tested on Anopheles gambiae Giles sensu stricto is described. In the present study, 87% of female A. gambiae are shown to feed on whole defibrinated bovine blood alone, whereas only 47% and 43.5% feed on saline and on saline + bovine serum albumin (BSA) solutions, respectively, suggesting that additional components in the blood stimulate mosquito feeding. The addition of 1 mm quinine or artesunate to the BSA solution results in a significant reduction in percentage engorgement to 16.2% and 14.1%, respectively. However, the feeding rate is higher when 1 mm artesunate and quinine are mixed in the blood because 67.8% and 78.4% of females engorge on these solutions respectively. Artesunate (10 mm) in the blood reduces percentage engorgement to 20%. Because circulating doses of quinine and artesunate affecting Plasmodium in humans are much lower than those affecting feeding by A. gambiae in the in vitro assay, these two antimalarial drugs should have no effect, or only a minor effect, on the infection rate of mosquitoes feeding on treated patients. Because only the stylets penetrate the membrane and not the labellar lobes, the results of the present study suggest that both blood phagostimulants and feeding deterrents are detected by internal gustatory organs in A. gambiae, namely sensory cells in the apical and subapical labral pegs, in sensilla on the inner face of the labellar lobes, or by cibarial receptor cells. The neuroanatomy of gustatory sensilla on the apical and subapical labral pegs and on the inner face of the labellar lobes of female A. gambiae is described in the present study.
The Photolytic Activity of Poly‐Arginine Cell Penetrating Peptides Conjugated to Carboxy‐tetramethylrhodamine is Modulated by Arginine Residue Content and Fluorophore Conjugation Site
Authors: Muthukrishnan Nandhini , Donovan Stephen , Pellois Jean‐Philippe
Published: May 2014

Upon light irradiation, Fluorophore–cell‐penetrating peptide (Fl‐CPP) conjugates can disrupt the integrity of biological membranes. This activity can in turn be used to photoinduce the disruption of endocytic organelles and promote the delivery of entrapped macromolecules such as proteins or RNAs into live cells. Recent mechanistic studies have shown that ROS production by the fluorophore and a latent lytic ability of CPPs act in synergy to elicit photolysis. However, how the structure of fluorophore‐CPP conjugates impacts this synergistic activity remains unclear. Herein, using red blood cells (RBCs) as a model of biological membranes, we show that the number of arginine residues in a CPP as well as the position of fluorophore with respect to the CPP dramatically affect the photolytic activity of a fluorophore‐CPP conjugate. These factors should therefore be considered for the development of effective photoinducible delivery agents.
Photophysics, Excited‐state Double‐Proton Transfer and Hydrogen‐bonding Properties of 5‐Deazaalloxazines
Authors: Prukala Dorota , Khmelinskii Igor , Koput Jacek , Gierszewski Mateusz , Pędziński Tomasz , Sikorski Marek
Published: May 2014

The photophysical properties of 5‐deazaalloxazine and 1,3‐dimethyl‐5‐deazaalloxazine were studied in different solvents. These compounds have higher values of fluorescence quantum yields and longer fluorescence lifetimes, compared to those obtained for their alloxazine analogs. Electronic structure and S0–Si transitions were investigated using the ab initio methods [MP2, CIS(D), EOM‐CCSD] with the correlation‐consistent basis sets. Also the time‐dependent density functional theory (TD‐DFT) has been employed. The lowest singlet excited states of 5‐deazaalloxazine and 1,3‐dimethyl‐5‐deazaalloxazine are predicted to have the π, π* character, whereas similar alloxazines have two close‐lying π, π* and n, π* transitions. Experimental steady‐state and time‐resolved spectral studies indicate formation of an isoalloxazinic excited state via excited‐state double‐proton transfer (ESDPT) catalyzed by an acetic acid molecule that forms a hydrogen bond complex with the 5‐deazaalloxazine molecule. Solvatochromism of both 5‐deazaalloxazine and its 1,3‐dimethyl substituted derivative was analyzed using the Kamlet–Taft scale and four‐parameter Catalán solvent scale. The most significant result of our studies is that the both scales show a strong influence of solvent acidity (hydrogen bond donating ability) on the emission properties of these compounds, indicating the importance of intermolecular solute–solvent hydrogen‐bonding interactions in their excited state.
Can Nitrogen Fertilization Aid Restoration of Mature Tree Productivity in Degraded Dryland Riverine Ecosystems?
Authors: Andersen Douglas C. , Adair Elizabeth Carol , Nelson Sigfrid Mark , Binkley Dan
Published: May 2014

Restoration of riparian forest productivity lost as a consequence of flow regulation is a common management goal in dryland riverine ecosystems. In the northern hemisphere, dryland river floodplain trees often include one or another species of Populus, which are fast‐growing, nutrient‐demanding trees. Because the trees are phreatophytic in drylands, and have water needs met in whole or in part by a shallow water table, their productivity may be limited by nitrogen (N) availability, which commonly limits primary productivity in mesic environments. We added 20 g N m−2 in a 2‐m radius around the base of mature Populus fremontii along each of a regulated and free‐flowing river in semiarid northwest Colorado, USA (total n = 42) in order to test whether growth is constrained by low soil N. Twelve years after fertilization, we collected increment cores from these and matched unfertilized trees and compared radial growth ratios (growth in the 3‐year post‐fertilization period/growth in the 3‐year pre‐fertilization period) in paired t tests. We expected a higher mean ratio in the fertilized trees. No effect from fertilization was detected, nor was a trend evident on either river. An alternative test using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) produced a similar result. Our results underscore the need for additional assessment of which and to what extent factors other than water control dryland riverine productivity. Positive confirmation of adequate soil nutrients at these and other dryland riparian sites would bolster the argument that flow management is necessary and sufficient to maximize productivity and enhance resilience in affected desert riverine forests.
HIV Vaccines: A Brief Overview
Authors: Lema D. , Garcia A. , De Sanctis J. B.
Published: May 2014

The scope of the article is to review the different approaches that have been used for HIV vaccines. The review is based on articles retrieved by PubMed and clinical trials from 1990 up to date. The article discusses virus complexity, protective and non‐protective immune responses against the virus, and the most important approaches for HIV vaccine development.
Interleukin‐17 Facilitates the Immune Suppressor Capacity of High‐Grade Glioma‐Derived CD4 (+) CD25 (+) Foxp3 (+) T Cells Via Releasing Transforming Growth Factor Beta
Authors: Liang H. , Yi L. , Wang X. , Zhou C. , Xu L.
Published: May 2014

High‐grade glioma is a malignant tumour; the pathogenesis is to be further investigated. Interleukin (IL)‐17 is an inflammatory cytokine. Chronic inflammation is a pathological feature of cancer. This study aimed to characterize the glioma‐derived IL‐17+ regulatory T cells (Treg). In this study, single cells were isolated from surgically removed high‐grade glioma tissue and examined by flow cytometry. The immune suppressor effect of IL‐17+ Tregs on CD8+ T cells was assessed in vitro. The results showed that abundant IL‐17+ Tregs were found in high‐grade glioma tissue. The immune suppressor molecule, transforming growth factor (TGF)‐beta, was detected in the IL‐17+ Tregs. The proliferation of CD8+ T cells was suppressed by culturing with the IL‐17+ Tregs, which was partially abrogated by neutralizing antibodies of either TGF‐beta or IL‐17 and completely abrogated by neutralizing antibodies against both TGF‐beta and IL‐17. In conclusion, IL‐17+ Tregs exist in the high‐grade glioma tissue; this subset of T cells can suppress CD8+ T cell activities via releasing TGF‐beta and IL‐17.
Stimulation of Duodenal Biopsies and Whole Blood from Dogs with Food‐Responsive Chronic Enteropathy and Healthy Dogs with Toll‐Like Receptor Ligands and Probiotic Enterococcus faecium
Authors: Schmitz S. , Henrich M. , Neiger R. , Werling D. , Allenspach K.
Published: May 2014

The composition of the microbiome plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in humans and chronic enteropathies (CE) in dogs. The administration of probiotic micro‐organisms is one way of modulating the microbiome, but experiments elucidating mechanisms of action of probiotics in the intestine of healthy and CE dogs are lacking. The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of different Toll‐like receptor (TLR) ligands and Enterococcus faecium (EF) on ex vivo cultured duodenal samples and whole blood (WB) from dogs with food‐responsive chronic enteropathy (FRE) when compared to healthy dogs. Biopsy stimulation was performed in 17 FRE and 11 healthy dogs; WB stimulation was performed in 16 FRE and 16 healthy dogs. Expression of TLR2, 4, 5 and 9, IL‐17A, IL‐22, IFNy, TNFα, IL‐4, IL‐10, TGFβ and PPARy was determined in biopsies by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In addition, production of TNFα, IL‐10, IFNy and IL‐17A protein in WB and biopsy supernatants was assessed by ELISA. Treatment with individual TLR ligands or EF induced a variety of changes in the expression of different TLRs and cytokines, but not necessarily a consistent change with a single stimulating agent. Even though cytokine protein could not be detected in supernatants from ex vivo stimulated biopsies, we found TNFα protein responses in blood to be opposite of the transcriptional responses seen in the biopsies. Stimulation of canine duodenal biopsies with TLR ligands can potentially induce anti‐inflammatory gene expression, especially in healthy tissue, whereas the effects of EF were limited.
Clinically significant hemolytic disease of the newborn secondary to passive transfer of anti‐D from maternal RhIG
Authors: Cohen Daniel N. , Johnson Mary S. , Liang Wayne H. , McDaniel Heather L. , Young Pampee P.
Published: May 2014

Background

RhIG is used worldwide to reduce the incidence of alloimmunization to D during pregnancy. We report a case of clinically significant neonatal hemolysis mediated by maternally administered RhIG.

Case Report

A 25‐year‐old, O–, primigravid mother with a negative antenatal antibody screen delivered a 6‐lb 4‐oz, blood group A, D+ baby girl at 36.5 weeks' gestation. Prenatal care included a dose of intramuscular RhIG at 28 weeks' gestation. At delivery, the newborn was markedly jaundiced with a total bilirubin of 6.3 mg/dL, which reached more than 20 mg/dL after 6 days. The newborn's lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was 485 U/L (normal, <226 U/L) and further laboratory studies revealed reticulocytosis (17.2%; normal range, 0.36%‐1.9%) and a hemoglobin (Hb) of 14.3 g/dL (normal for age range, 13.4‐19.8 g/dL) that decreased to 11.5 g/dL (normal for age range, 13.5‐22.6 g/dL) by Day‐of‐life 7. Although the maternal antibody screen was negative, the newborn's direct antiglobulin test (DAT) was positive for immunoglobulin (Ig)G, with an anti‐D identified by elution studies. The possibility of hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) due to anti‐A was considered, but ultimately ruled out by the absence of anti‐A1 in the eluate. The newborn's hyperbilirubinemia was adequately managed with phototherapy. Analysis of the mother's plasma 10 days postpartum revealed an anti‐D titer of 8. Two months after birth, the child's laboratory studies, DAT, antibody screen, and peripheral smear were unremarkable.

Conclusion

In the context of neonatal anemia, elevated LDH, and reticulocytosis, a positive IgG DAT with anti‐D identified in the eluate suggests RhIG‐mediated HDN. This appears to be a rarely reported event.
Coagulation management with factor concentrates in liver transplantation: a single‐center experience
Authors: Kirchner Carmen , Dirkmann Daniel , Treckmann Jürgen W. , Paul Andreas , Hartmann Matthias , Saner Fuat H. , Görlinger Klaus
Published: May 2014

Background

Allogeneic blood products transfusion during liver transplantation (LT) can be associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Data on thromboelastometry (ROTEM)‐guided coagulation management with coagulation factor concentrates (CFCs)—fibrinogen concentrate and/or prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC)—are sparse. We aimed to retrospectively evaluate the safety events observed with this approach in our clinic.

Study Design and Methods

LT patients from January 2009 to December 2010 (n = 266) were identified by chart review. A ROTEM‐based algorithm with CFC guided the hemostatic therapy. Doppler ultrasound was used to evaluate thrombosis in the hepatic artery, portal vein, and hepatic veins. Stroke, myocardial ischemia, pulmonary embolism, and transfusion variables were recorded. Patients receiving CFC were included in the CFC group (n = 156); those not receiving CFC were included in the non‐CFC group (n = 110). Safety events were compared between these two groups.

Results

Allogeneic transfusion(s) in the 266 patients was low, with medians of 2 (interquartile range [IQR], 0‐5), 0 (IQR 0‐0), and 0 (IQR 0‐1) units for red blood cells (RBCs), fresh‐frozen plasma (FFP), and platelets (PLTs), respectively. Ninety‐seven of 266 LTs (36.5%) were performed without RBCs transfusion, 227 (85.3%) without FFP, and 190 (71.4%) without PLTs. There were no significant differences in thrombotic, thromboembolic, and ischemic adverse events occurrence between the CFC group and the non‐CFC group (11/156 patients vs. 5/110; p = 0.31).

Conclusion

In LT, ROTEM‐guided treatment with fibrinogen concentrate and/or PCC did not appear to increase the occurrence of thrombosis and ischemic events compared to patients who did not receive these concentrates.
High Production Rate Synthesis of CdS Nanoparticles Using a Reverse Oscillatory Flow Method
Authors: Peterson Daniel A. , Padmavathi C. , Paul Brian K.
Published: May 2014

A reverse oscillatory flow (ROF) mixing system is discussed having a reaction channel 460 μm high by 152 mm wide for high flow rate processing of nanoparticle (NP) chemistries. The ROF system is demonstrated to produce CdS nanoparticles at a production rate of 115.7 g/h with a coefficient of variation (CV) for particle size down to 19%. These production rates are substantially higher than those achieved using other microchannel mixers while maintaining comparable size distributions. Advantages of the ROF approach include the use of larger microchannels which make the reactor easier to fabricate and less vulnerable to clogging.
Thermal stability of DNA origami on mica
Authors: Pillers Michelle A. , Lieberman Marya
Published: May 2014

The authors report the unusual thermal stability of deoxyribose nucleic acid (DNA) origami when adhered to a solid substrate. Even when heated to 150 °C for 45 min, these DNA nanostructures retain their physical and chemical integrity. This result suggests that DNA origami could be integrated into applications requiring moderate substrate heating, such as photoresist baking or chemical vapor deposition processes.
Time-domain acoustic contrast control design with response differential constraint in personal audio systems
Authors: Cai Yefeng , Wu Ming , Liu Li , Yang Jun
Published: May 2014

The acoustic contrast control (ACC) approach is applied to reproduce the focused sound in personal audio systems utilizing an array of loudspeakers. A time-domain design of ACC is developed here for broadband input signals, where a response differential term is introduced to control the frequency response. Based on experimental results in an anechoic chamber, the proposed method demonstrates the potential capability to provide excellent acoustic contrast over the continuous frequency and maintain a flat frequency response. Furthermore, compared with the previous method, fewer parameters need to be tuned in the proposed method.
Step-Rate Recommendations for Moderate-Intensity Walking in Overweight/Obese and Healthy Weight Children
Authors: Morgan Charles F. , Tsuchida Allison R. , Beets Michael William , Hetzler Ronald K. , Stickley Christopher D.
Published: May 2014

Background:

Physical activity guidelines for youth and adults include recommendations for moderate intensity activity to attain health benefits. Indirect calorimetry studies have consistently reported a 100 ste·min−1 threshold for moderate intensity walking in adults. No indirect calorimetry studies have investigated step-rate thresholds in children and therefore the primary purpose of the study was to determine preliminary step-rate thresholds for moderate physical activity walking in children.

Methods:

Oxygen consumption was measured at rest and used to determine 3 and 4 age-adjusted metabolic equivalents (A-AMETs) for 4 treadmill trials (self-selected, 2.5, 3.0, and 3.5 MPH). Two trained observers simultaneously counted children’s steps during each walking trial. Step-rate thresholds associated with moderate-intensity activity, defined as 3 and 4 A-AMETs, were determined using hierarchical linear modeling.

Results:

Regression analysis determined an overall step rate of 112 and 134 step·min-1 for 3 and 4 A-AMETs respectively. Body mass index (BMI) weight status and age were positively related to A-AMETs.

Conclusions:

We suggest age and BMI weight status specific recommendations that range from a low of 100 step·min-1 threshold (3 A-AMETs) for overweight/obese 11- to 12-year-olds to a high of 140 step·min-1 threshold (4 A-AMETs) for healthy weight 9- to 10-year-old children.
Skills, education, and the rise of earnings inequality among the “other 99 percent”
Authors: Autor David H.
Published: May 2014

The singular focus of public debate on the “top 1 percent” of households overlooks the component of earnings inequality that is arguably most consequential for the “other 99 percent” of citizens: the dramatic growth in the wage premium associated with higher education and cognitive ability. This Review documents the central role of both the supply and demand for skills in shaping inequality, discusses why skill demands have persistently risen in industrialized countries, and considers the economic value of inequality alongside its potential social costs. I conclude by highlighting the constructive role for public policy in fostering skills formation and preserving economic mobility.
Life-span extension by a metacaspase in the yeast
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Hill Sandra Malmgren , Hao Xinxin , Liu Beidong , Nyström Thomas
Published: May 2014

Yeast metacaspase: Grim Reaper or savior?

Yeast metacaspases are structural and possibly functional homologs of caspases that execute apoptosis—programmed cell death—in higher organisms. Malmgren Hill
et al.
tested whether yeast metacaspase Mca1 acts as an executioner or beneficial protein during replicative aging of yeast (see the Perspective by Kampinga). Boosting metacaspase levels caused a substantial and robust extension of life span. This lifespan extension was only partly dependent on the caspase activity of Mca1 but required the presence of the protein disaggregase Hsp104. Consistent with a role in proteostasis, Mca1 was recruited to chaperone-enriched aggregates during aging. Mca1 increased aggregate asymmetry during yeast cytokinesis and counteracted the age-associated accumulation of inclusions.

Science
, this issue p.
1389
; see also p.
1341
Lamarck was partially right—and that is good for corals
Authors: Eakin C. Mark
Published: May 2014

Tabletop corals can adapt to changing temperature conditions on shorter time scales than previously thought

[Also see Report by

Palumbi
et al.

]
PHD Inhibition Mitigates and Protects Against Radiation-Induced Gastrointestinal Toxicity via HIF2
Authors: Taniguchi Cullen M. , Miao Yu Rebecca , Diep Anh N. , Wu Colleen , Rankin Erinn B. , Atwood Todd F. , Xing Lei , Giaccia Amato J.
Published: May 2014

Pharmacologic inhibition or knockout of HIF-prolyl hydroxylases in mice reduces morbidity and mortality from radiation-induced gastrointestinal syndrome.
Therapeutic Potential of Spleen Tyrosine Kinase Inhibition for Treating High-Risk Precursor B Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Perova Tatiana , Grandal Ildiko , Nutter Lauryl M. J. , Papp Eniko , Matei Irina R. , Beyene Joseph , Kowalski Paul E. , Hitzler Johann K. , Minden Mark D. , Guidos Cynthia J. , Danska Jayne S.
Published: May 2014

Pre-BCR–independent activation of spleen tyrosine kinase plays a pathogenic role in high-risk B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
Machine Learning to the Rescue
Authors: White Nathan J.
Published: May 2014

A new approach using vital sign complexity analysis and machine learning improves prediction of the need for lifesaving maneuvers in trauma patients.
Draft Genome Sequences of Two Isolates of the
Roseobacter
Group,
Sulfitobacter
sp. Strains 3SOLIMAR09 and 1FIGIMAR09, from Harbors of Mallorca Island (Mediterranean Sea)
Authors: Mas-Lladó Maria , Piña-Villalonga Joana Maria , Brunet-Galmés Isabel , Nogales Balbina , Bosch Rafael
Published: May 2014

We present the draft genome sequences of two isolates of the
Roseobacter
lineage, 3SOLIMAR09 and 1FIGIMAR09, which were obtained from harbors of Mallorca Island, Spain, and are affiliated with the
Sulfitobacter
genus. Both isolates harbor the complete gene set for protocatechuate catabolism and incomplete pathways for several additional monoaromatic compounds.
Draft Genome Sequence of Multidrug-Resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis Strain CWCFVRF MDRTB 670, Isolated from the Sputum of a Patient from Chennai, India, with Clinically Suspected Tuberculosis
Authors: Lakshmipathy Dhanurekha , Vetrivel Umashankar , Irudayam Lily Therese , Ramasubban Gayathri , Madhavan H. N. , Sridhar R. , Meenakshi N.
Published: May 2014

We announce the draft genome sequence of a multidrug-resistant
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
strain (CWCFVRF MDRTB 670) isolated from sputum from a patient with clinically suspected tuberculosis.
A Shared Population of Epidemic Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus 15 Circulates in Humans and Companion Animals
Authors: Harrison Ewan M. , Weinert Lucy A. , Holden Matthew T. G. , Welch John J. , Wilson Katherine , Morgan Fiona J. E. , Harris Simon R. , Loeffler Anette , Boag Amanda K. , Peacock Sharon J. , Paterson Gavin K. , Waller Andrew S. , Parkhill Julian , Holmes Mark A.
Published: May 2014

Methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA) is a global human health problem causing infections in both hospitals and the community. Companion animals, such as cats, dogs, and horses, are also frequently colonized by MRSA and can become infected. We sequenced the genomes of 46 multilocus sequence type (ST) 22 MRSA isolates from cats and dogs in the United Kingdom and compared these to an extensive population framework of human isolates from the same lineage. Phylogenomic analyses showed that all companion animal isolates were interspersed throughout the epidemic MRSA-15 (EMRSA-15) pandemic clade and clustered with human isolates from the United Kingdom, with human isolates basal to those from companion animals, suggesting a human source for isolates infecting companion animals. A number of isolates from the same veterinary hospital clustered together, suggesting that as in human hospitals, EMRSA-15 isolates are readily transmitted in the veterinary hospital setting. Genome-wide association analysis did not identify any host-specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) or virulence factors. However, isolates from companion animals were significantly less likely to harbor a plasmid encoding erythromycin resistance. When this plasmid was present in animal-associated isolates, it was more likely to contain mutations mediating resistance to clindamycin. This finding is consistent with the low levels of erythromycin and high levels of clindamycin used in veterinary medicine in the United Kingdom. This study furthers the “one health” view of infectious diseases that the pathogen pool of human and animal populations are intrinsically linked and provides evidence that antibiotic usage in animal medicine is shaping the population of a major human pathogen.

IMPORTANCE
Methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA) is major problem in human medicine. Companion animals, such as cats, dogs, and horses, can also become colonized and infected by MRSA. Here, we demonstrate that a shared population of an important and globally disseminated lineage of MRSA can infect both humans and companion animals without undergoing host adaptation. This suggests that companion animals might act as a reservoir for human infections. We also show that the isolates from companion animals have differences in the presence of certain antibiotic resistance genes. This study furthers the “one health” view of infectious diseases by demonstrating that the pool of MRSA isolates in the human and animal populations are shared and highlights how different antibiotic usage patterns between human and veterinary medicine can shape the population of bacterial pathogens.
New aetiology of patellofemoral pain syndrome
Authors: Chas Julie , Mariot Philippe , Tassart Marc , Pialoux Gilles
Published: May 2014

We report the case of a 30-year-old man with more than 100 different male sexual partners per year. He reported using cocaine, ecstasy, γ-hydroxybutyric acid and crystal mephedrone and presented with bilateral gonalgia resistant to standard analgesia. He had no noteworthy medical history, and physical examination and laboratory tests were uninformative. MRI showed marked intra-articular effusion but no meniscus or ligament damage. The aetiological diagnosis in this case was made by excluding other potential causes. Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is one of the most common and challenging injuries. In this first case reported, the aetiology was found to be mechanical, due to the position adopted during fellatio with multiple male partners.
An elusive cause of hypoxaemia in a paediatric patient
Authors: Bola Sundeep Singh , Narang Indra
Published: May 2014

A 5-year-old girl presented to an ambulatory cardiology clinic with shortness of breath, described by the patient's mother and chest discomfort on exertion. At this visit, she was noted to have low baseline room air oxygen saturations of 89%. Subsequent cardiac, respiratory and haematological investigations including contrast echocardiography, CT scan of the chest, polysomnography and haemoglobin electrophoresis were unhelpful in yielding a diagnosis. A CT scan of the chest with contrast was performed which revealed a persistent left-sided superior vena cava that appeared to be draining into the left atrium, creating a right-to-left shunt. This was not revealed on contrast echocardiography as contrast (micro bubbles) had been injected into the right arm. This case report highlights the nuances of diagnostic investigations, which without a high index of suspicion may exclude a timely diagnosis and therapeutic intervention.
Perinatal neuroblastoma: a hidden bullet in the chest
Authors: Venkatesh Harohalli Iyer , Mohanty Pankaj Kumar , Razak Abdul , Nagesh N Karthik
Published: May 2014

A neonate with antenatally diagnosed intrathoracic mass by ultrasound scan was delivered uneventfully at 35 weeks gestation by caesarean section due to pre-eclampsia and fluctuating hypertension in the mother. The intrathoracic mass was echogenic and the diagnosis was inconclusive. At 12 h of life the baby deteriorated acutely, in terms of increased oxygen requirement, ventilatory care, heart rate fluctuation, hypotension requiring inotropic support and died despite intensive care support. The parents were counselled that an autopsy would be invaluable in providing a diagnosis given the antenatal finding of an intrathoracic mass. The final diagnosis of neuroblastoma was performed at postmortem.
Odontogenic myxoma in a 52-year-old woman
Authors: Ram Hari , Mehta Gagan , Kumar Manoj , Lone Parveen
Published: May 2014

Odontogenic myxoma (OM) is a rare benign but locally aggressive tumour of the jaws. It is usually seen in the second to third decade of life. Women are more frequently affected than men and it has more predilections for the mandible rather than the maxilla. OM presents as an asymptomatic swelling in most of the cases. Owing to the non-capsulated and aggressive nature of OM, a high rate of recurrence has been reported. Here we present a case of OM in a 52-year-old woman managed by segmental mandibulectomy. Sign of recurrence was seen after 18 months of follow-up.
An extraordinary form of the Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome successfully treated with the tumour necrosis factor-α blocker adalimumab
Authors: Stein Juergen , Paulke Alexander , Schacher Beate , Noehte Matthias
Published: May 2014

Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome (MRS) is a rare granulomatous inflammatory disease characterised by the triad of orofacial oedema, facial nerve palsy and furrowed tongue. We describe the case of a 29-year-old patient suffering from an oligosymptomatic form of the disease with orofacial oedema, cobblestone pattern on the buccal mucosa and swelling of the tongue, accompanied by intermittent fatigue, influenza-like symptoms, intermittent tinnitus and acute hearing loss. An increase of several autoimmune-associated antibodies was also detected. Treatment with prednisolone, azathioprine or methotrexate failed to adequately control all symptoms in the long term. In the absence of a specific and well-established therapy for MRS, treatment with adalimumab was administered. Under adalimumab, total remission of all symptoms was achieved, indicating that tumour necrosis factor-α blockers are a promising therapeutic option for patients with Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome.
Successful management of pelvic bleeding after caesarean hysterectomy by means of Foley catheter-condom balloon tamponade
Authors: Atilgan Remzi , Aslan Kubat , Can Behzat , Sapmaz Ekrem
Published: May 2014

In this case report, we describe a 28-year-old woman with multipar gestation who developed postcaesarean atonia and severe pelvic haemorrhage which continued in spite of peripartum hysterectomy. A balloon tamponade tool was formed with Foley catheter and a condom, and was inserted into the pelvis through the vaginal cuff. The tampon was inflated up to 2200 mL and the pelvic tamponade was applied and bleeding was controlled. On the patient's incapability of urination, the volume of condom was decreased to 1800 mL and urination was achieved. seventy-two h postoperatively the Foley catheter-condom was removed through an abdominal incision. Pelvic bleeding ceased. After monitoring for a week, no postoperative fever, infection, pelvic abscess and haematoma were observed. Use of Foley catheter-condom as a pelvis pressure tampon tool may be a simple and effective method which can be easily used to control pelvic bleeding.
Facilitators and barriers to quality of care in maternal, newborn and child health: a global situational analysis through metareview
Authors: Nair Manisha , Yoshida Sachiyo , Lambrechts Thierry , Boschi-Pinto Cynthia , Bose Krishna , Mason Elizabeth Mary , Mathai Matthews
Published: May 2014

Objective

Conduct a global situational analysis to identify the current facilitators and barriers to improving quality of care (QoC) for pregnant women, newborns and children.

Study design

Metareview of published and unpublished systematic reviews and meta-analyses conducted between January 2000 and March 2013 in any language. Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) is used to assess the methodological quality of systematic reviews.

Settings

Health systems of all countries. Study outcome: QoC measured using surrogate indicators––effective, efficient, accessible, acceptable/patient centred, equitable and safe.

Analysis

Conducted in two phases (1) qualitative synthesis of extracted data to identify and group the facilitators and barriers to improving QoC, for each of the three population groups, into the six domains of WHO's framework and explore new domains and (2) an analysis grid to map the common facilitators and barriers.

Results

We included 98 systematic reviews with 110 interventions to improve QoC from countries globally. The facilitators and barriers identified fitted the six domains of WHO's framework––information, patient–population engagement, leadership, regulations and standards, organisational capacity and models of care. Two new domains, ‘communication’ and ‘satisfaction’, were generated. Facilitators included active and regular interpersonal communication between users and providers; respect, confidentiality, comfort and support during care provision; engaging users in decision-making; continuity of care and effective audit and feedback mechanisms. Key barriers identified were language barriers in information and communication; power difference between users and providers; health systems not accounting for user satisfaction; variable standards of implementation of standard guidelines; shortage of resources in health facilities and lack of studies assessing the role of leadership in improving QoC. These were common across the three population groups.

Conclusions

The barriers to good-quality healthcare are common for pregnant women, newborns and children; thus, interventions targeted to address them will have uniform beneficial effects. Adopting the identified facilitators would help countries strengthen their health systems and ensure high-quality care for all.
New version of viscous Chaplygin gas cosmology with varying gravitational constant
Authors: Naji J. , Heydari S. , Darabi R.
Published: May 2014

In this paper we consider a new version of Chaplygin gas cosmology that includes bulk viscosity and a varying gravitational constant. This new model of Chaplygin gas allows us to recover a barotropic fluid with a quadratic equation of state. Bulk viscosity is assumed to be a power law function of the energy density. We study the evolution of dark energy density numerically for several forms of scale factor and analytically under some assumptions corresponding to a late epoch of the universe. We discuss some cosmological parameters and fix them using recent observational data, such as those from the Background Imaging of Cosmic Extragalactic Polarization 2 (BICEP2) telescope.
Reproductive biology of the Amazon Lava Lizard (Tropidurustorquatus) from the Wet Chaco of Corrientes (Argentina): congeneric comparisons of ecotypic and interspecific variations
Authors: Ortiz M.A. , Boretto J.M. , Piantoni C. , Álvarez B.B. , Ibargüengoytía N.R.
Published: May 2014

Herein we describe the reproductive biology of a population of the Amazon Lava Lizard (Tropidurus torquatus (Wied-Neuwied, 1820)) from Corrientes, northeastern Argentina (Wet Chaco). We describe the male and female reproductive cycles, minimum body size for adults, reproductive output, mean relative clutch mass, fat body cycles, and sexual dimorphism. Our results were compared with data on the reproductive biology of Brazilian populations of T. torquatus and congeneric species. In Corrientes, males of T. torquatus exhibited a continuous reproductive cycle, but with annual variation of testicular parameters associated with spermatogenic activity. In contrast, females were reproductive only from winter to summer (July–February), laying at least two clutches each of six eggs, on average, per reproductive season. The relative clutch mass and egg size values in Corrientes were the highest reported for the species. The annual cycle of energy storage (as fat bodies) was inversely correlated with reproductive activity in both sexes. Males differed from females in snout–vent length, head size, interlimb length, and tail length. We observed interpopulational differences in relative clutch mass, egg volume and mass, incubation period and hatching time, and the minimum body size for sexual maturity probably as a result of phenotypic plasticity or adaptation to local environmental conditions and likely both.
Local scaling asymptotics in phase space and time in Berezin–Toeplitz quantization
Authors: Paoletti Roberto
Published: May 2014

This paper deals with the local semiclassical asymptotics of a quantum evolution operator in the Berezin–Toeplitz scheme, when both time and phase space variables are subject to appropriate scalings in the neighborhood of the graph of the underlying classical dynamics. Global consequences are then drawn regarding the scaling asymptotics of the trace of the quantum evolution as a function of time.
Pipe Defect Visualization and Quantification Using Longitudinal Ultrasonic Modes
Authors: Lee Hyeonseok , Park Hyun Woo , Sohn Hoon
Published: May 2014

In this study, a new ultrasonic wave based imaging techniques developed using longitudinal ultrasonic waves for detecting defects in pipeline structures. Ultrasonic waves are gaining popularity for pipeline monitoring because of its sensitivity to small defects and a long sensing range. Based on the merits of the ultrasonic waves, several research groups have developed ultrasonic wave based imaging techniques for pipeline monitoring. Conventionally, a pure torsional mode is often generated using shear-mode piezoelectric transducers or electromagnetic acoustic transducers (EMAT) and used for pipe damage detection. In this study, a new ultrasonic wave based imaging technique is developed using a longitudinal wave mode instead of the pure torsional mode. The longitudinal mode is generated using inexpensive macro fiber composite (MFC) transducers attached at one end of the pipe, eliminating the need for the shear-mode transducers or EMATs. Then, the reflections generated by the interaction of the incident longitudinal mode with a defect are measured in a pulse echo manner. Using a normal mode expansion technique, flexural modes are extracted from the reflected signals. When a defect-induced reflected wave mode is propagated back along the longitudinal direction of the pipe, its dispersive nature is minimized and best-compensated at the defection location. Therefore, by virtually propagating each defect-induced flexural mode back in the wave propagation direction, an image which visualizes the focusing of the back-propagated flexural modes can be obtained and the defect location can be identified. Numerical simulations and experimental tests are conducted to demonstrate that a wall-thinning in a steel pipe can be detected and quantified using the proposed imaging technique.
Finite p-groups with a minimal non-abelian subgroup of index p (IV)
Authors: An Lijian , Hu Ruifang , Zhang Qinhai
Published: May 2014

In this paper, we completely classify the finite p-groups G such that [Formula: see text], Φ(G′)G3 ≤ Z(G) and G/Φ(G′)G3 is minimal non-abelian. This paper is a part of the classification of finite p-groups with a minimal non-abelian subgroup of index p. Together with other four papers, we solve a problem proposed by Y. Berkovich.
Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 differentially modulates effector memory T cells and Foxp3+ regulatory T cells in a mouse model of necrotizing enterocolitis
Authors: Liu Yuying , Tran Dat Q. , Fatheree Nicole Y. , Marc Rhoads J.
Published: May 2014

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is an inflammatory disease with evidence of increased production of proinflammatory cytokines in the intestinal mucosa. Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 (LR17938) has been shown to have anti-inflammatory activities in an experimental model of NEC. Activated effector lymphocyte recruitment to sites of inflammation requires the sequential engagement of adhesion molecules such as CD44. The phenotype of CD44+CD45RBlo separates T effector/memory (Tem) cells from naive (CD44−CD45RBhi) cells. It is unknown whether these Tem cells participate in the inflammation associated with NEC and can be altered by LR17938. NEC was induced in 8- to 10-day-old C57BL/6J mice by gavage feeding with formula and exposure to hypoxia and cold stress for 4 days. Survival curves and histological scores were analyzed. Lymphocytes isolated from mesenteric lymph nodes and ileum were labeled for CD4, CD44, CD45RB, intracellular Foxp3, and Helios and subsequently analyzed by flow cytometry. LR17938 decreased mortality and the incidence and severity of NEC. The percentage of Tem cells in the ileum and mesenteric lymph nodes was increased in NEC but decreased by LR17938. Conversely, the percentage of CD4+Foxp3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells in the intestine decreased during NEC and was restored to normal by LR17938. The majority of the Treg cells preserved by LR17938 were Helios+ subsets, possibly of thymic origin. In conclusion, LR17938 may represent a useful treatment to prevent NEC. The mechanism of protection by LR17938 involves modulation of the balance between Tem and Treg cells. These T cell subsets might be potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets during intestinal inflammation.
High cardiorespiratory fitness can reduce glycated hemoglobin levels regardless of polygenic risk for Type 2 diabetes mellitus in nondiabetic Japanese men
Authors: Tanisawa Kumpei , Ito Tomoko , Sun Xiaomin , Ise Ryuken , Oshima Satomi , Cao Zhen-Bo , Sakamoto Shizuo , Tanaka Masashi , Higuchi Mitsuru
Published: May 2014

High cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is associated with a reduced risk of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and improved β-cell function; genetic factors also determine these risks. This cross-sectional study investigated whether CRF modifies the association of polygenic risk of T2DM with glucose metabolism in nondiabetic Japanese men. Fasting plasma glucose, insulin, and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels were measured in 174 Japanese men (age: 20–79 yr). β-Cell function and insulin resistance were evaluated by calculating HOMA-β and HOMA-IR, respectively. CRF was assessed by measuring maximal oxygen uptake (V̇o2max). Subjects were divided into the low and high CRF groups within each age group according to the median V̇o2max. Eleven single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with T2DM were analyzed and used to calculate genetic risk score (GRS); subjects were divided into the low, middle, and high GRS groups. The high GRS group had higher HbA1c levels than the low GRS group in both the low and high CRF groups ( P < 0.05). Furthermore, the individuals with a high GRS had a lower HOMA-β than those with a low GRS regardless of CRF ( P < 0.05). In multiple linear regression analysis, although GRS was a significant predictor of HbA1c ( β = 0.153, P = 0.025), V̇o2max was also associated with HbA1c ( β = −0.240, P = 0.041) independent of GRS. These results suggest that CRF is associated with HbA1c levels independent of GRS derived from T2DM-related SNPs; however, it does not modify the association of GRS with increased HbA1c or impaired β-cell function.
Silicon Nanofabrication by Atomic Force Microscopy-Based Mechanical Processing
Authors: Miyake Shojiro , Wang Mei , Kim Jongduk
Published: May 2014

This paper reviews silicon nanofabrication processes using atomic force microscopy (AFM). In particular, it summarizes recent results obtained in our research group regarding AFM-based silicon nanofabrication through mechanochemical local oxidation by diamond tip sliding, as well as mechanical, electrical, and electromechanical processing using an electrically conductive diamond tip. Microscopic three-dimensional manufacturing mainly relies on etching, deposition, and lithography. Therefore, a special emphasis was placed on nanomechanical processes, mechanochemical reaction by potassium hydroxide solution etching, and mechanical and electrical approaches. Several important surface characterization techniques consisting of scanning tunneling microscopy and related techniques, such as scanning probe microscopy and AFM, were also discussed.