bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk factors for carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumanii blood stream infections in a neonatal intensive care unit, Delhi, India
Authors: Kumar Ajay , Randhawa Valinderjeet Singh , Nirupam Nilay , Rai Yogita , Saili Arvind
Published: August 2014

Introduction: Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) infection is being increasingly observed and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality in newborns. In this study, we determined the epidemiology, risk factors, and outcomes of blood stream infection (BSI) caused by CRAB in neonates. Methodology: The clinical charts of neonates who developed Acinetobacter baumannii BSI in the period between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2012 were reviewed. Results: During the study period, 65 neonates developed Acinetobacter baumannii BSI; 33 were CRAB at an incidence of 0.50 case per 1,000 patient-days. Compared with carbapenem-sensitive Acinetobacter baumannii (CSAB), patients with CRAB BSI had significantly higher prior antimicrobial use, longer duration of ventilation, and late isolation of organisms. Feeding with expressed breast milk was protective. All isolates of Acinetobacter baumenii were sensitive to colistin and tigecycline. The all-cause mortality rates were 27.3% in CRAB and 9.4% in CSAB BSI, respectively (p = 0.074). Conclusions: Neonatal BSI caused by CRAB was not common but caused high mortality. Feeding with breast milk was protective. Lack of effective antibiotics was the major challenge in treating these patients.
Diagnosis of leishmaniasis
Authors: Elmahallawy Ehab Kotb , Sampedro Martinez Antonio , Rodriguez-Granger Javier , Hoyos-Mallecot Yannick , Agil Ahamd , Navarro Mari Jose Mari , Gutierrez Fernandez Jose
Published: August 2014

Leishmaniasis is a clinically heterogeneous syndrome caused by intracellular protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania. The clinical spectrum of leishmaniasis encompasses subclinical ( not apparent), localized (skin lesion), and disseminated (cutaneous, mucocutaneous, and visceral) infection. This spectrum of manifestations depends on the immune status of the host, on the parasite, and on immunoinflammatory responses. Visceral leishmaniasis causes high morbidity and mortality in the developing world. Reliable laboratory methods become mandatory for accurate diagnosis, especially in immunocompromised patients such as those infected with HIV. In this article, we review the current state of the diagnostic tools for leishmaniasis, especially  the serological test.
Sexual behavioral correlates with HSV-2 seroprevalence among pregnant women in Nigeria
Authors: Kalu Eziyi Iche , Ojide Chiedozie Kingsley , Fowotade Adeola , Nwadike Victor Ugochukwu
Published: August 2014

Introduction: The burden of HSV-2 infection, the cause of most cases of genital herpes in Nigeria, varies from region to region; and so are the associated factors. This infection is known to be responsible for several negative pregnancy outcomes. There is currently no documented data on sexual behavioral factors associated with the occurrence of HSV-2 infection or seroprevalence among pregnant women in Nigeria. This study aimed at identifying the sexual behavioral correlates of HSV-2 seroprevalence among pregnant women in Benin City, Nigeria. Methodology: The cross-sectional study design was adopted and the study took place between November 2011 and June 2012. Four hundred and ten consenting ante-natal clinic patients in two major tertiary hospitals in Benin City were consecutively and prospectively included. Data sources were represented by questionnaires, the patient’s case records and laboratory investigations. Each patient’s serum was analyzed for HSV-2 antibody detection. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 16. Results: Four hundred and ten patients were enrolled with average age 30.6 years. Seroprevalence of HSV-2 antibody was 47.3%. Sexual behavioral factors that were significantly associated with HSV-2 seroprevalence included early exposure to sexual intercourse, number of sex partners, involvement in polygamous marriages, involvement of husband in extra-marital affairs and hormonal contraceptive use. Conclusion: The prevalence of HSV-2 among pregnant women in Benin City is high.  Public health campaigns aimed at: delaying onset of sexual activity; encouraging monogamous relationships; and emphasizing that hormonal contraceptives do not protect from STI’s, are recommended.
Molecular typing and in vitro antifungal susceptibility of Cryptococcus spp from patients in Midwest Brazil
Authors: Favalessa Olivia Cometti , De Paula Daphine Ariadne Jesus , Dutra Valeria , Nakazato Luciano , Tadano Tomoko , Lazera Marcia dos Santos , Wanke Bodo , Trilles Luciana , Walderez Szeszs Maria , Silva Dayane , Hahn Rosane Christine
Published: August 2014

Introduction: Cryptococcosis is a systemic fungal infection that affects humans and animals, mainly due to Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii. Following the epidemic of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), fungal infections by C. neoformans have become more common among immunocompromised patients. Cryptococcus gattii has primarily been isolated as a primary pathogen in healthy hosts and occurs endemically in northern and northeastern Brazil. We to perform genotypic characterization and determine the in vitro susceptibility profile to antifungal drugs of the Cryptococcus species complex isolated from HIV-positive and HIV-negative patients attended at university hospitals in Cuiabá, MT, in the Midwestern region of Brazil. Methodology: Micromorphological features, chemotyping with canavanine-glycine-bromothymol blue (CGB) agar and genotyping by URA5-RFLP were used to identify the species. The antifungal drugs tested were amphotericin B, fluconazole, flucytosine, itraconazole and voriconazole. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were determined according to the CLSI methodology M27-A3. Results: Analysis of samples yelded C. neoformans AFLP1/VNI (17/27, 63.0%) and C. gattii AFLP6/VGII (10/27, 37.0%). The MICs ranges for the antifungal drugs were: amphotericin B (0.5-1 mg/L), fluconazole (1-16 mg/L), flucytosine (1-16 mg/L), itraconazole (0.25-0.12 mg/L) and voriconazole (0.06-0.5 mg/L). Isolates of C. neoformans AFLP1/VNI were predominant in patients with HIV/AIDS, and C. gattii VGII in HIV-negative patients. The genotypes identified were susceptible to the antifungal drugs tested. Conclusion: It is worth emphasizing that AFLP6/VGII is a predominant genotype affecting HIV-negative individuals in Cuiabá. These findings serve as a guide concerning the molecular epidemiology of C. neoformans and C. gattii in the State of Mato Grosso.
Gram-negative infections in pediatric and neonatal intensive care units of Latin America
Authors: Berezin Eitan N , Solórzano Fortino
Published: August 2014

In order to review the epidemiology of Gram-negative infections in the pediatric and neonatal intensive care units (PICUs and NICUs) of Latin America a systematic search of PubMed and targeted search of SciELO was performed to identify relevant articles published since 2005. Independent cohort data indicated that overall infection rates were higher in Latin American PICUs and NICUs versus developed countries (range, 5%–37% vs 6%–15%, respectively). Approximately one third of Latin American patients with an acquired PICU or NICU infection died, and crude mortality was higher among extremely low-birth-weight infants and those with an infection caused by Gram-negative bacteria. In studies reporting > 100 isolates, the frequency of Gram-negative pathogens varied from 31% (Colombia) to 63% (Mexico), with Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli the predominant pathogens in almost all countries, and Acinetobacter spp. and Serratia spp. isolated sporadically. The activity of quinolones and third-generation cephalosporins against P. aeruginosa, Acinetobacter spp., and Enterobacteria was seriously compromised, coincident with a high prevalence of circulating extended-spectrum β-lactamases. Furthermore, we identified two observational studies conducted in Chile and Brazil reporting infections by P. aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii in PICUs, demonstrating resistance to carbapenems, and two outbreaks of carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae in Colombia and Brazil. The endemicity of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative infections in Latin American PICUs and NICUs is punctuated by intermittent clonal outbreaks. The problem may be alleviated by ensuring ICUs are less crowded, increasing staffing levels of better-trained health care personnel, and implementing antimicrobial stewardship and surveillance programs.
Dengue encephalopathy – still an enigma?
Authors: Malik Rupali , Gogna Arun , Meher Jhasketan , Singh Kumud Kumar , Sharma Susheel Kumar
Published: August 2014

Dengue encephalopathy or dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) with neurological involvement was once considered to be one of the rarer presentations of this infectious agent. In recent years, many such clinical cases have been reported, though they still remain isolated. We hereby report a case of confirmed dengue fever with features of encephalopathy with previously unreported cranial magnetic resonance imaging findings suggestive of extensive involvement of the bilateral cerebellar region, brainstem, and thalami along with peculiar rim enhancement but normal cerebrospinal fluid analysis.
The use of Technology of Global Positioning System (GPS) in Criminal Investigation & Right to Privacy under the Constitution and Criminal Legislations in Jordan : Legal Analysis Study
Authors: Faqir Raed. S. A.
Published: August 2014

Le présent article traite des défis posés, en Jordanie, aux agences compétentes dans l’utilisation de la nouvelle technologie du GPS à l’occasion d’investigations pénales en raison notamment du silence des dispositions constitutionnelles et législatives. L’article insiste particulièrement sur les difficultés soulevées par l’étendue des pouvoirs dont disposent les autorités publiques telles que les procureurs et la police judiciaire dans l’utilisation du GPS au cours des investigations menées au stade préliminaire du processus judiciaire. L’article souligne également l’impact de l’utilisation de ce procédé au regard du droit à la vie privée garanti par la Constitution et envisage, afin de ne pas contrevenir au droit susvisé, les limites devant être posées dans le cadre de l’utilisation de ce dispositif. La présente étude s’achève par la mise en évidence des difficultés auxquelles sont confrontées les juridictions jordaniennes notamment s’agissant des aspects légaux relatifs à l’utilisation de technologies avancées dont celle du GPS et plus précisément du silence législatif dans ce domaine. Ainsi, les auteurs de cette étude recommandent que soient adoptés, dans le futur, plusieurs amendements aux textes législatifs et constitutionnels actuels afin d’améliorer les lois relatives à l’utilisation de ce type de technologie et limiter les conséquences préjudiciables pour les libertés fondamentales.
Interpersonal Variables and Their Impact on the Perceived Validity of Peer Assessment in Engineering PBL
Authors: Symes Mark , Carew Anna , Ranmuthugala Dev
Published: August 2014

Intra-team peer assessments have become the norm for performance and attribute assessment in problem and project based learning activities. However, research on the effects of interpersonal variables on these assessment practices is limited. This study examined the relationship between interpersonal variables and student perceptions on the validity of peer assessment. In order to understand the relationship between social interaction and its effects on peer assessment, four interpersonal variables were identified in this study: psychological safety, value diversity, interdependence, and trust. Fifty five undergraduate engineering students working in teams of 5 to 6 participated in a survey after having completed their first formative peer assessment. Preliminary findings from this study and evidence from other studies support the view that interpersonal variables have the potential to affect peer assessment and influence the learning outcomes.
Hepatocyte Growth Factor Limits Autoimmune Neuroinflammation via Glucocorticoid-Induced Leucine Zipper Expression in Dendritic Cells
Authors: Benkhoucha Mahdia , Molnarfi Nicolas , Dunand-Sauthier Isabelle , Merkler Doron , Schneiter Gregory , Bruscoli Stefano , Riccardi Carlo , Tabata Yasuhiko , Funakoshi Hiroshi , Nakamura Toshikazu , Reith Walter , Santiago-Raber Marie-Laure , Lalive Patrice H.
Published: August 2014

Autoimmune neuroinflammation, including multiple sclerosis and its animal model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a prototype for T cell–mediated autoimmunity, is believed to result from immune tolerance dysfunction leading to demyelination and substantial neurodegeneration. We previously showed that CNS-restricted expression of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), a potent neuroprotective factor, reduced CNS inflammation and clinical deficits associated with EAE. In this study, we demonstrate that systemic HGF treatment ameliorates EAE through the development of tolerogenic dendritic cells (DCs) with high expression levels of glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper (GILZ), a transcriptional repressor of gene expression and a key endogenous regulator of the inflammatory response. RNA interference–directed neutralization of GILZ expression by DCs suppressed the induction of tolerance caused by HGF. Finally, adoptive transfer of HGF-treated DCs from wild-type but not GILZ gene–deficient mice potently mediated functional recovery in recipient mice with established EAE through effective modulation of autoaggressive T cell responses. Altogether, these results show that by inducing GILZ in DCs, HGF reproduces the mechanism of immune regulation induced by potent immunomodulatory factors such as IL-10, TGF-β1, and glucocorticoids and therefore that HGF therapy may have potential in the treatment of autoimmune dysfunctions.
6-Methoxyflavone Inhibits NFAT Translocation into the Nucleus and Suppresses T Cell Activation
Authors: So Jae-Seon , Kim Gi-Cheon , Song Minkyung , Lee Choong-Gu , Park Eunbee , Kim Ho Jin , Kim Young Sup , Jun Chang-Duk , Im Sin-Hyeog
Published: August 2014

NFAT plays a crucial role in the immune system by regulating the transcription of inducible genes during immune responses. In T cells, NFAT proteins govern various cellular events related to T cell development, activation, tolerance induction, and differentiation. We previously reported the NFAT1-dependent enhancer activity of conserved noncoding sequence (CNS)-9, a distal cis-acting element, in the regulation of IL-10 transcription in T cells. In this study, we developed a T cell–based reporter system to identify compounds that modulate the regulatory activity of CNS-9. Among the identified candidates, 6-methoxyflavone (6-MF) significantly inhibited the enhancer activity of CNS-9, thereby reducing IL-10 expression in T cells without affecting cell viability. 6-MF also downregulated the transcription of NFAT1 target genes such as IL-4, IL-13, and IFN-γ. Treatment of 6-MF inhibited the translocation of NFAT1 into the nucleus, which consequently interrupted NFAT1 binding to the target loci, without affecting the expression or dephosphorylation of NFAT1. Treatment of 6-MF to CD4+ T cells or B cells isolated from mice with atopic dermatitis significantly reduced disease-associated cytokine production, as well as the levels of IgE. In addition, oral administration of 6-MF to atopic dermatitis mice ameliorated disease symptoms by reducing serum IgE levels and infiltrating lymphocytes. Conclusively, our results suggest that 6-MF can be a potential candidate for the development of an effective immunomodulator via the suppression of NFAT-mediated T cell activation.
MyD88 Signaling Inhibits Protective Immunity to the Gastrointestinal Helminth Parasite Heligmosomoides polygyrus
Authors: Reynolds Lisa A. , Harcus Yvonne , Smith Katherine A. , Webb Lauren M. , Hewitson James P. , Ross Ewan A. , Brown Sheila , Uematsu Satoshi , Akira Shizuo , Gray David , Gray Mohini , MacDonald Andrew S. , Cunningham Adam F. , Maizels Rick M.
Published: August 2014

Helminth parasites remain one of the most common causes of infections worldwide, yet little is still known about the immune signaling pathways that control their expulsion. C57BL/6 mice are chronically susceptible to infection with the gastrointestinal helminth parasite Heligmosomoides polygyrus. In this article, we report that C57BL/6 mice lacking the adapter protein MyD88, which mediates signaling by TLRs and IL-1 family members, showed enhanced immunity to H. polygyrus infection. Alongside increased parasite expulsion, MyD88-deficient mice showed heightened IL-4 and IL-17A production from mesenteric lymph node CD4+ cells. In addition, MyD88−/− mice developed substantial numbers of intestinal granulomas around the site of infection, which were not seen in MyD88-sufficient C57BL/6 mice, nor when signaling through the adapter protein TRIF (TIR domain–containing adapter–inducing IFN-β adapter protein) was also ablated. Mice deficient solely in TLR2, TLR4, TLR5, or TLR9 did not show enhanced parasite expulsion, suggesting that these TLRs signal redundantly to maintain H. polygyrus susceptibility in wild-type mice. To further investigate signaling pathways that are MyD88 dependent, we infected IL-1R1−/− mice with H. polygyrus. This genotype displayed heightened granuloma numbers compared with wild-type mice, but without increased parasite expulsion. Thus, the IL-1R–MyD88 pathway is implicated in inhibiting granuloma formation; however, protective immunity in MyD88-deficient mice appears to be granuloma independent. Like IL-1R1−/− and MyD88−/− mice, animals lacking signaling through the type 1 IFN receptor (i.e., IFNAR1−/−) also developed intestinal granulomas. Hence, IL-1R1, MyD88, and type 1 IFN receptor signaling may provide pathways to impede granuloma formation in vivo, but additional MyD88-mediated signals are associated with inhibition of protective immunity in susceptible C57BL/6 mice.
Risk of Lower Extremity Injury in a Military Cadet Population After a Supervised Injury-Prevention Program
Authors: Carow Scott D. , Haniuk Eric M. , Cameron Kenneth L. , Padua Darin A. , Marshall Stephen W. , DiStefano Lindsay J. , de la Motte Sarah J. , Beutler Anthony I. , Gerber John P.
Published: August 2014

Context: Specific movement patterns have been identified as possible risk factors for noncontact lower extremity injuries. The Dynamic Integrated Movement Enhancement (DIME) was developed to modify these movement patterns to decrease injury risk.

Objective: To determine if the DIME is effective for preventing lower extremity injuries in US Military Academy (USMA) cadets.

Design: Cluster-randomized controlled trial.

Setting: Cadet Basic Training at USMA.

Patients or Other Participants: Participants were 1313 cadets (1070 men, 243 women).

Intervention(s): Participants were cluster randomized to 3 groups. The active warm-up (AWU) group performed standard Army warm-up exercises. The DIME groups were assigned to a DIME cadre-supervised (DCS) group or a DIME expert-supervised (DES) group; the former consisted of cadet supervision and the latter combined cadet and health professional supervision. Groups performed exercises 3 times weekly for 6 weeks.

Main Outcome Measure(s): Cumulative risk of lower extremity injury was the primary outcome. We gathered data during Cadet Basic Training and for 9 months during the subsequent academic year. Risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to compare groups.

Results: No differences were seen between the AWU and the combined DIME (DCS and DES) groups during Cadet Basic Training or the academic year. During the academic year, lower extremity injury risk in the DES group decreased 41% (relative risk [RR] = 0.59; 95% CI = 0.38, 0.93; P = .02) compared with the DCS group; a nonsignificant 25% (RR = 0.75; 95% CI = 0.49, 1.14; P = .18) decrease occurred in the DES group compared with the AWU group. Finally, there was a nonsignificant 27% (RR = 1.27; 95% CI = 0.90, 1.78; P = .17) increase in injury risk during the academic year in the DCS group compared with the AWU group.

Conclusions: We observed no differences in lower extremity injury risk between the AWU and combined DIME groups. However, the magnitude and direction of the risk ratios in the DES group compared with the AWU group, although not statistically significant, indicate that professional supervision may be a factor in the success of injury-prevention programs.
Lacrimal Outflow Mechanisms and the Role of Scintigraphy: Current Trends
Authors: Detorakis Efstathios , Zissimopoulos Athanassios , Ioannakis Konstantinos , Kozobolis Vassilios
Published: August 2014

Lacrimal outflow can be compromised by anatomical obstructions or stenoses (nonfunctional epiphora) or by defective lacrimal "pump" function (functional epiphora). Although classic imaging modalities, such as X-ray dacryocystography, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging can effectively evaluate the former, their success is much less in the evaluation of the latter. This is largely due to the fact that forced diagnostic injection of fluid into the canalicular system can overcome partial obstruction sites. On the other hand, lacrimal scintigraphy mimicks "physiological" lacrimal outflow, being performed under pressure gradients present in everyday life. This is why it is considered more suitable for the study of functional epiphora. Furthermore, quantitative lacrimal scintigraphy (with time-activity curves) enables the accurate measurement of lacrimal clearance from the conjunctival fornices and may be used to study the physiology of the lacrimal "pump." Data obtained from the scintigraphic study of lacrimal outflow may be used to design more effective procedures in the management of functional and nonfunctional epiphora. This is a review article, based on a literature search with emphasis on recent publications and on those supporting interdisciplinary cooperation between ophthalmology and nuclear medicine.
Role of Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography in Diagnostic Evaluation of Carcinoma Urinary Bladder: Comparison with Computed Tomography
Authors: Chakraborty Dhritiman , Mittal Bhagwant , Kashyap Raghava , Mete Utham , Narang Vikram , Das Ashim , Bhattacharya Anish , Khandelwal Niranjan , Mandal Arup
Published: August 2014

Bladder carcinoma is the most frequent tumor of the urinary tract and accounts 7% of all malignancies in men and 2% of all malignancies in women. This retrospective study was carried out to assess the diagnostic utility of F18-fludeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) in the imaging evaluation of bladder carcinoma. Seventy-seven consecutive patients diagnosed to have carcinoma urinary bladder referred for F18-FDG PET/CT were included in this study. Thirty-four patients were for initial staging after transurethral biopsy and remaining 43 patients were for restaging. All patients also underwent CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis. PET/CT findings were correlated with diagnostic CT scan and histopathological findings. In 30 of the 34 patients for initial staging, both PET/CT and CT confirmed the primary lesion in the bladder. Histopathology report was available in 23 patients. Lymph nodes FDG uptake reported to be metastatic in 10/23 patients while CT detected lymph node metastasis in 12 patients. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV) and accuracy have been calculated to be 87.5%, 80%, 70%, 92%, 82% for PET/CT and 66%, 57%, 50%, 72%, 60% for CT respectively. PET/CT detected metastatic disease in 8 patients whereas CT detected in 4 patients. Of the 43 patients for restaging, local recurrence was detected in 24 patients on both PET/CT and CT. Histopathology report was available in 17 patients. Sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV and accuracy were 85%, 60%, 60%, 85%, 70% for PET/CT and 80%, 50%, 40%, 85%, 58% for CT respectively. Nineteen patients were detected to have metastatic disease by PET/CT, whereas CT detected metastases in 11 patients. F-18 FDG PET/CT is a very useful modality in pre-operative staging and monitoring after surgery, chemotherapy or radiotherapy of patients with carcinoma urinary bladder.
Radioactive Body Burden Measurements in 131 Iodine Therapy for Differentiated Thyroid Cancer: Effect of Recombinant Thyroid Stimulating Hormone in Whole Body 131 Iodine Clearance
Authors: Ravichandran Ramamoorthy , Al Saadi Amal , Al Balushi Naima
Published: August 2014

Protocols in the management of differentiated thyroid cancer, recommend adequate thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) stimulation for radioactive 131 I administrations, both for imaging and subsequent ablations. Commonly followed method is to achieve this by endogenous TSH stimulation by withdrawal of thyroxine. Numerous studies worldwide have reported comparable results with recombinant human thyroid stimulating hormone (rhTSH) intervention as conventional thyroxine hormone withdrawal. Radiation safety applications call for the need to understand radioactive 131 I (RA 131 I) clearance pattern to estimate whole body doses when this new methodology is used in our institution. A study of radiation body burden estimation was undertaken in two groups of patients treated with RA 131 I; (a) one group of patients having thyroxine medication suspended for 5 weeks prior to therapy and (b) in the other group retaining thyroxine support with two rhTSH injections prior to therapy with RA 131 I. Sequential exposure rates at 1 m in the air were measured in these patients using a digital auto-ranging beta gamma survey instrument calibrated for measurement of exposure rates. The mean measured exposure rates at 1 m in μSv/h immediately after administration and at 24 h intervals until 3 days are used for calculating of effective ½ time of clearance of administered activity in both groups of patients, 81 patients in conventionally treated group (stop thyroxine) and 22 patients with rhTSH administration. The 131 I activities ranged from 2.6 to 7.9 GBq. The mean administered 131 I activities were 4.24 ± 0.95 GBq (n = 81) in "stop hormone" group and 5.11 ± 1.40 GBq (n = 22) in rhTSH group. The fall of radioactive body burden showed two clearance patterns within observed 72 h. Calculated T½eff values were 16.45 h (stop hormone group) 12.35 h (rhTSH group) for elapsed period of 48 h. Beyond 48 h post administration, clearance of RA 131 I takes place with T½eff > 20 h in both groups. Neck and stomach exposure rate measurements showed reduced uptakes in the neck for rhTSH patients compared with "stop thyroxine" group and results are comparable with other studies. Whole body clearance is faster for patients with rhTSH injection, resulting in less whole body absorbed doses, and dose to blood. These patients clear circulatory radioactivity faster, enabling them to be discharged sooner, thus reduce costs of the hospitalization. Reduction in background whole body count rate may improve the residual thyroid images in whole body scan. rhTSH provides TSH stimulation without withdrawal of thyroid hormone and hence can help patients to take up therapy without hormone deficient problems in the withdrawn period prior to RA 131 I therapy. This also will help in reducing the restriction time periods for patients to mix up with the general population and children.
F-18 Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography in a Rare Case of Recurrent Malignant Mixed Mullerian Tumor
Authors: Bhoil Amit , Kashyap Raghava , Bhattacharya Anish , Mittal Bhagwant
Published: August 2014

We report a case of 66-year-old female with previous history of histopathologically proven. Malignant mixed mullerain tumor of the uterus in whom positron emission tomography/computed tomography (CT) done for characterization of soft tissue lesion in pelvis noticed on CT, showed extensive recurrent disease in the pelvis with pulmonary metastases.
Development of Conventional and Real-Time Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction Assays to Detect Tembusu Virus in Culex tarsalis Mosquitoes
Authors: Petz Lawrence N. , Turell Michael J. , Padilla Susana , Long Lewis S. , Reinbold-Wasson Drew D. , Smith Darci R. , O'Guinn Monica L. , Melanson Vanessa R. , Lee John S.
Published: August 2014

Tembusu virus (TMUV) is an important emerging arthropod-borne virus that may cause encephalitis in humans and has been isolated in regions of southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Thailand, and China. Currently, detection and identification of TMUV are limited to research laboratories, because quantitative rapid diagnostic assays for the virus do not exist. We describe the development of sensitive and specific conventional and real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction assays for detecting TMUV RNA in infected cell culture supernatant and Culex tarsalis mosquitoes. We used this assay to document the replication of TMUV in Cx. tarsalis, where titers increased 1,000-fold 5 days after inoculation. These assays resulted in the detection of virus-specific RNA in the presence of copurified mosquito nucleic acids. The use of these rapid diagnostic assays may have future applications for field pathogen surveillance and may assist in early detection, diagnosis, and control of the associated arthropod-borne pathogens.
Standardization of a TaqMan-Based Real-Time PCR for the Detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis-Complex in Human Sputum
Authors: Barletta Francesca , Vandelannoote Koen , Collantes Jimena , Evans Carlton A. , Arévalo Jorge , Rigouts Leen
Published: August 2014

Real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was optimized for detecting Mycobacterium tuberculosis in sputum. Sputum was collected from patients (N = 112) with suspected pulmonary tuberculosis, tested by smear microscopy, decontaminated, and split into equal aliquots that were cultured in Löwenstein-Jensen medium and tested by qPCR for the small mobile genetic element IS6110. The human ERV3 sequence was used as an internal control. 3 of 112 (3%) qPCR failed. For the remaining 109 samples, qPCR diagnosed tuberculosis in 79 of 84 patients with culture-proven tuberculosis, and sensitivity was greater than microscopy (94% versus 76%, respectively, P < 0.05). The qPCR sensitivity was similar (P = 0.9) for smear-positive (94%, 60 of 64) and smear-negative (95%, 19 of 20) samples. The qPCR was negative for 24 of 25 of the sputa with negative microscopy and culture (diagnostic specificity 96%). The qPCR had 99.5% sensitivity and specificity for 211 quality control samples including 84 non-tuberculosis mycobacteria. The qPCR cost ∼5US$ per sample and provided same-day results compared with 2–6 weeks for culture.
Comparison of floating chamber and eddy covariance measurements of lake greenhouse gas fluxes
Authors: Podgrajsek E. , Sahlée E. , Bastviken D. , Holst J. , Lindroth A. , Tranvik L. , Rutgersson A.
Published: August 2014

Abstract. Fluxes of carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) from lakes may have a large impact on the magnitude of the terrestrial carbon sink. Traditionally lake fluxes have been measured using the floating chamber (FC) technique; however, several recent studies use the eddy covariance (EC) method. We present simultaneous flux measurements using both methods at lake Tämnaren in Sweden during field campaigns in 2011 and 2012. Only very few similar studies exist. For CO2 flux, the two methods agree relatively well during some periods, but deviate substantially at other times. The large discrepancies might be caused by heterogeneity of partial pressure of CO2 (pCO2w) in the EC flux footprint. The methods agree better for CH4 fluxes. It is, however, clear that short-term discontinuous FC measurements are likely to miss important high flux events.
Modified No Search Scheme based Domain Blocks Sorting Strategies for Fractal Image Coding
Authors: Wang Xing-Yuan , Zhang Dou-Dou , Wei Na
Published: August 2014

A novel fractal image coding algorithm based on domain blocks sorting strategies and modified no search scheme is proposed in this paper. On one hand, in order to improve the encoding time, a modified no search (MNS) scheme is adopted. Firstly, the image is divided into blocks of different size utilizing an adaptive quadtree partition method. Secondly, one finds the location of the best matching domain block using the MNS scheme for the range blocks, whose sizes are larger than the preset minimum value. Thirdly, the types of the range block and domain block are computed employing the proposed approach, and then the corresponding computation of mean square error (MSE) is determined. The computation of the MSE is reduced and the encoding phase speeds up. On the other hand, the range blocks with the minimal sizes are encoded applying the proposed domain blocks sorting (DBS) method. Contrast experiment results show that the proposed algorithm can obtain good quality of the reconstructed images and shorten the encoding time significantly.
Fractional Transmission Line with Losses
Authors: Gómez-Aguilar José Francisco , Dumitru Baleanu
Published: August 2014

In this manuscript, the fractional transmission line with losses is presented. The order of the Caputo derivative is considered as 0 < β ≤ 1 and 0 < γ ≤ 1 for the fractional equation in space and time domain, respectively. Two cases are solved, with fractional spatial and fractional temporal derivatives, and also numerical simulations were carried out, where there are taken both derivatives in simultaneous form. Two parameters σx and σt are introduced and a physical relation between these parameters is reported. Solutions in space and time are given in terms of the Mittag-Leffler functions. The classic cases are recovered when β and γ are equal to 1.
The Flavonols Quercetin, Myricetin, Kaempferol, and Galangin Inhibit the Net Oxygen Consumption by Immune Complex- Stimulated Human and Rabbit Neutrophils
Authors: Figueiredo-Rinhel Andréa S. G. , Santos Everton O. L. , Kabeya Luciana M. , Azzolini Ana Elisa C. S. , Simões-Ambrosio Livia M. C. , Lucisano-Valim Yara M
Published: August 2014

Stimulated human neutrophils exhibit increased net oxygen consumption (NOC) due to the conversion of O2 into the superoxide anion by the NADPH oxidase enzymatic complex during the respiratory burst. In several inflammatory diseases, overproduction of these oxidants causes tissue damage. The present study aims to: (a) optimize the experimental conditions used to measure the NOC in serum-opsonized zymosan (OZ)-and insoluble immune complex (i-IC)-stimulated human and rabbit neutrophils; and (b) compare the effect of four flavonols (quercetin, myricetin, kaempferol, and galangin) on this activity. We used a Clark-type oxygen electrode to measure the NOC of stimulated neutrophils. Eliciting the neutrophil respiratory burst with OZ and i-IC yielded similar maximum O2 uptake levels within the same species, but the human neutrophil NOC was almost four times higher than the rabbit neutrophil NOC. The optimal experimental conditions established for both cell types were 4·106 neutrophils mL-1, 2 mg mL-1 OZ, and 240 µg mL-1 i-IC. Upon stimulation with OZ or i-IC, the tested flavonols reduced the human and rabbit neutrophil NOC in the same order of potency - quercetin and galangin were the most and the least potent, respectively. These compounds were around four times more effective in inhibiting the rabbit as compared to the human neutrophil NOC, respectively. The four flavonols were not toxic to human or rabbit neutrophils. The experimental conditions used are suitable for both the determination of human and rabbit neutrophil NOC and for the assessment of the modulatory effects of natural compounds on these activities. The relationship between the level of NOC and the inhibitory potency of the flavonols suggests that rabbit neutrophils can be useful experimental models to predict the effect of drugs on immune complexstimulated human neutrophils.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activities of Oxazepine and Oxazocine Derivatives
Authors: Tang Jian , Jiang Yu-liang , Wang Bing-xiang , Shen Yong-miao
Published: August 2014

A series of annulated 7-membered oxazepine and 8-membered oxazocine derivatives were synthesized by photoreaction of phthalimide derivatives and an alkene. The antimicrobial activities of the synthesized compounds were evaluated, and compounds 18 and 20 exhibited best antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria. The relationships between structure (especially steric structure) and antimicrobial activities are discussed.
Adalimumab and Etanercept in the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Spondyloarthropathies: Budget Impact Model of Dose Reduction
Authors: Alejandro González Álvarez  , Manuel Gómez Barrera  , Joaquín Borrás Blasco  , Emilio José Giner Serret
Published: August 2014

Objective:To assess the financial impact ofspacing out the administration intervals of adalimumab (ADA) and etanercept (ETN) in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and spondyloarthropathies (SAP) in our work setting.Materials and method:A budget impact model (BIM) was developed to estimate the financial impact ofspacing out the usual administration intervals of ADA 40 mg every 2 weeks and ETN 50 mg weekly (scenario A) to ADA 40 mg every 3 weeks and ETN 50 mg every 2 weeks (scenario B), according to the guidelines and recommendations applied to these studies, specifying the target population, the study perspective, the time frame, and analysing the robustness of the study with a threshold univariate sensitivity analysis.Results:A total of 71 patients were included in the study.The application of a BIM showed annual savings for ADA and ETN of €19,784 and €38,271, respectively.The net cost, that is, the savings this entailed for the time frame considered (2 years), amounted to €116,110.The sensitivity analysis performed shows that the BIM estimated for the study period was very robust, as the net result in the different scenarios varied very little, remaining negative in the new scenarios.Conclusions:The BIM developed in the study shows the importance of the role of healthcare professionals in the context of sustainability of the healthcare system, where the model could generate large annual net savings for the different regional healthcare systems.
Anthropometric Characteristics and other Dietary Aspects of a Group of Spanish Women Looking for Weight Loss and Enrolled in a Weight Management Program
Authors: Magdalena Rafecas  , Laura-Isabel Arranz  , Mireia García  , Miguel-Ángel Canela  , DIECA group
Published: August 2014

Overweight is a health problem characterised as a higher than normal body weight due to an abnormal increase in body fat. Body weight adequacy is categorised using body mass index (BMI), however other parameters as fat mass (FM), waist circumference or waist to hip ratio, are relevant. Ideally, body composition should be calculated initially to evaluate changes during a dietary intervention for weight loss. Hunger experience is another parameter to take into account in order to succeed. The aim was to investigate and describe the characteristics of women seeking weight loss solutions. We organised an open program for people with body excess who wanted to lose weight. 252 women participated and answered to a dietary interview. Anthropometric measures of weight, height, body mass index, body fat, waist and hip circumference were taken. The mean age was of 36.84±7.29 years, and most of them, about 90%, have followed dietary programs for weight loss throughout their lives. They all wanted to lose weight in a range of 3 to 20 kilograms with a mean value of 11.49±6.01 kilograms. 123 women had a hunger profile of satiating behaviour and 129 a snacking one. The mean BMI was within overweight values, and mean fat mass was within obesity values. Waist and hip circumference were higher than normal in most of the participants and excess body weight perception and attitude were different. There is a need to tackle overweight and obesity individually, taking into account personal consciousness and expectancy, anthropometric measures and hunger experience.
Nutritional and Functional Properties of Edible Mushrooms: A Food with Promising Health Claims
Authors: Viviana Loria-Kohen  , Thais Lourenço-Nogueira  , Isabel Espinosa-Salinas  , Francisco R. Marín  , Cristina Soler-Rivas  , Ana Ramirez de Molina
Published: August 2014

Over the past two decades, there has been a steady flow of publications about the health effects related to mushrooms consumption. They represent a valuable source of protein, present high levels of fiber, some vitamins and minerals, and they also have reduced amount of fat and sodium. In addition, their complex carbohydrates profile can strengthen considerably the immune system.Edible mushrooms have been related to significant functional properties due to their bioactive compounds, such as eritadenine, phenolic compounds, sterols (as ergosterol), chitosan, etc., These substances are considered as important agents in the prevention and treatment of different health conditions like obesity, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease. However, it is important to remember that most of scientific studies are made in animal models and, therefore, some evidences regarding mushroom consumption have yet to be confirmed in clinical trials.Despite of the growing appeal for humans by their medicinal effects and nutritional value, mushrooms are also very appreciated for their texture, flavor, and versatility in culinary. They can be easily incorporated into any kind of dish, improving the dietary diversity without adding many calories.The information presented in this review point out that the positive effect of mushrooms on health is beyond basic nutrition. Therefore, it is very valuable expanding our knowledge about mushrooms, in order to identify all their active principles and the mechanisms involved in each health benefit, getting aware about the doses required to achieve that, in a safe range for humans.
Lactic-Acid Bacteria Supplement Fermented Dairy Products with Human Behavior-Modifying Neuroactive Compounds
Authors: Alexander V. Oleskin  , Olga G. Zhilenkova  , Boris A. Shenderov  , Adelaide M. Amerhanova  , Vladimir S. Kudrin  , Peter M. Klodt
Published: August 2014

Using high performance liquid chromatography, we established that probiotic Lactobacillus strains (Lactobacillus helveticus 100ash, L. helveticus NK-1, L. casei K3III24, and L. delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus) grown on two milk-containing nutrient media produce important neuromediators such as biogenic amines, their precursors and deamination products, as well as neuroactive amino acids. The concentrations of biogenic amines (such as catecholamines and, with L. helveticus 100ash, also serotonin) equal or exceed those contained in the bloodstream of healthy adult humans, whereas those of most amino acids are comparatively low, except for gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Of paramount importance is the fact that the bacterial cultures can release micromolar amounts of GABA and L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA)into the milk-containing media. It is known that DOPA passes through the gut-blood and the blood-brain barrier and converts into major neurotransmitters (dopamine and norepinephrine) that influence important aspects of human behavior. The data obtained suggest that dairy products fermented by live lactobacilli-containing starters are potential sources of human behavior-modifying substances.
Acetylation of 1,2,5,8-tetrahydroxy-9,10-anthraquinone Improves Binding to DNA and Shows Enhanced Superoxide Formation that Explains Better Cytotoxicity on JURKAT T Lymphocyte Cells
Authors: Sayantani Mukherjee  , Priya Kalyan Gopal  , Santanu Paul  , Saurabh Das
Published: August 2014

Background: Hydroxy-9,10-anthraquinones form the core unit of anthracycline anticancer drugs and are close structural analogues to these drugs. Although they show close resemblance to anthracyclines in physicochemical characteristics and electrochemical behavior their biophysical interactions are somewhat weaker than anthracyclines which is a disadvantage. One reason is the formation of anionic species by hydroxy-9,10-anthraquinones. Hence if formation of anionic species is prevented there could be a possibility hydroxy-9,10-anthraquinones would bind DNA better. Procedure: For this 1, 2, 5, 8-tetrahydroxy-9,10-anthraquinone (THAQ) was acetylated to obtain a tetra-acetylated derivative (THAQ-ace) whose interaction with calf thymus DNA was studied using UV-Vis spectroscopy at different pH. Results: Binding constant values for THAQ-ace (~105) were higher than THAQ at different pH. Increase in binding constant was attributed to anionic species not formed for THAQ-ace at physiological pH. Hence, unlike THAQ, binding constant values for THAQ-ace interacting with calf thymus DNA did not show variation with pH. In fact, it remained more or less constant. Increase in size of the acetylated form (THAQ-ace) compared to THAQ had a negative influence on binding. THAQ-ace showed enhanced superoxide formation. Both DNA binding and superoxide formation were responsible for a significant improvement in anticancer activity for THAQ-ace compared to THAQ on Jurkat T lymphocyte cells. Conclusion: Binding constant values for THAQ-ace binding to DNA were close to that reported for some standard anthracyclines. Hence, suitable modification of the less costly hydroxy-9,10-anthraquinones could provide alternatives to anthracyclines in cancer chemotherapy.
Tumor Microenvironment in Human Tumor Xenografted Mouse Models
Authors: Mariana Varna  , Philippe Bertheau  , Luc G. Legrès
Published: August 2014

Tumor microenvironment, known to exert regulatory functions on tumor cells, plays an important role when a human tumor is xenografted into immunodeficient mice. Primary human tumors xenografts represent a promising strategy to study new therapeutic efficacy or to understand the mechanisms implicated in tumor relapse. The development of xenografts is linked not only to the aggressivity of the tumor cells, but also to the tumor microenvironment. Tumor xenograft cell proliferation is dependent on microenvironment modifications such as angiogenesis and human blood vessel replacement, host immune cells and the presence of growth factors. The characterisation and a better knowledge of these factors allow for a more appropriate use of xenograft animal models in the evaluation of new antitumor treatments. In this review, we describe the different factors linked to the tumor microenvironment and their impact on the take rate when human tumors are xenografted into immunodeficient mice.
Mixed Medullary Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma in Hyperfunctioning Hot Nodule: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: B. Raggiunti  , A. Franchi  , V. Congedo  , S. Filipponi  , G. Fiore  , G. Raggiunti  , D. Tina  , A. Mongia  , A. Rufo  , F.A. Ruggieri  , D. Di Michele
Published: August 2014

Mixed medullary papillary carcinoma (MMPC) is a rare variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma, according to the WHO classification and it presents as a single lesion histologically composed of two distinct and intermingled neoplastic cell patterns. The histogenesis is still debatable. The lymph node metastases are usually present at the time of the diagnosis and distal metastases may appear late during follow-up. At least 13 similar lesions have been reported in the literature. We describe the case of a 61-year-old woman with a mixed medullary papillary carcinoma found in a hyperfunctioning thyroid nodule and negative pre-surgical serum calcitonin. After surgery, the patient started suppressive L-thyroxine therapy and underwent radioiodine ablation. The follow-up for both papillary and medullary components has shown no signs of persistence or recurrence of disease five years after surgery. However, the rarity of the MMPCs makes the management and the prognosis of these tumors still unclear.