bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human cytomegalovirus directly modulates expression of chemokine CCL2 (MCP-1) during viral replication
Authors: Hamilton Stuart T. , Scott Gillian M. , Naing Zin , Rawlinson William D.
Published: August 2013

Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) infects monocytes and other haematopoietic progenitor cells which then act as reservoirs for latency and virus dissemination. The chemokine CCL2 (monocyte chemotactic protein-1 or MCP-1) exhibits potent chemotactic activity for monocytes and is a likely target for CMV-induced immunomodulation. In this study, we demonstrate CMV modulates CCL2 expression in MRC-5 fibroblasts with multiplicity-dependent kinetics, where CCL2 is upregulated during early stage infection, followed by CCL2 inhibition at late stage infection. This CMV-induced CCL2 modulation was dependent upon virus replication, as UV-inactivated virus did not elicit any changes in CCL2 levels. Dual immunofluorescence staining showed CMV strains AD169, purified AD169, Merlin, FIX WT (FLAG-US28/WT) and pUS28-deficient FIX (FIX-ΔUS28) all induced upregulation of CCL2 primarily within infected cells. Focal upregulation of CCL2 within FIX-ΔUS28-infected cells demonstrated intracellular CCL2 accumulation was independent of CCL2 sequestration by the CMV-encoded chemokine receptor US28. Infection with purified virus confirmed CMV-induced CCL2 upregulation was not due to any CCL2-inducing factors contained within non-purified virus stocks. The CMV-induced CCL2 expression kinetics occurred concurrently with modulation of the CCL2 transcriptional activators NF-κB, interferon regulatory factor 3 and cytokine IFN-β, independent of virus strain, and with the establishment of viral replication compartments within infected cell nuclei. This is the first report to our knowledge to demonstrate CMV modulation of CCL2 expression within infected cells during viral replication. This immune modulation may facilitate virus dissemination, establishment of latency and pathogenesis of CMV-induced host disease.
Co-incorporation of the PB2 and PA polymerase subunits from human H3N2 influenza virus is a critical determinant of the replication of reassortant ribonucleoprotein complexes
Authors: Hara Koyu , Nakazono Yoko , Kashiwagi Takahito , Hamada Nobuyuki , Watanabe Hiroshi
Published: August 2013

The influenza virus RNA polymerase, composed of the PB1, PB2 and PA subunits, has a potential role in influencing genetic reassortment. Recent studies on the reassortment of human H3N2 strains suggest that the co-incorporation of PB2 and PA from the same H3N2 strain appears to be important for efficient virus replication; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here, we reconstituted reassortant ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complexes and demonstrated that the RNP activity was severely impaired when the PA subunit of H3N2 strain A/NT/60/1968 (NT PA) was introduced into H1N1 or H5N1 polymerase. The NT PA did not affect the correct assembly of the polymerase trimeric complex, but it significantly reduced replication-initiation activity when provided with a vRNA promoter and severely impaired the accumulation of RNP, which led to the loss of RNP activity. Mutational analysis demonstrated that PA residues 184N and 383N were the major determinants of the inhibitory effect of NT PA and 184N/383N sequences were unique to human H3N2 strains. Significantly, NT PB2 specifically relieved the inhibitory effect of NT PA, and the PB2 residue 627K played a key role. Our results suggest that PB2 from the same H3N2 strain might be required for overcoming the inhibitory effect of H3N2 PA in the genetic reassortment of influenza virus.
Isolation and molecular characterization of Fikirini rhabdovirus, a novel virus from a Kenyan bat
Authors: Kading Rebekah C. , Gilbert Amy T. , Mossel Eric C. , Crabtree Mary B. , Kuzmin Ivan V. , Niezgoda Michael , Agwanda Bernard , Markotter Wanda , Weil M. Ryan , Montgomery Joel M. , Rupprecht Charles E. , Miller Barry R.
Published: August 2013

Zoonotic and vector-borne pathogens have comprised a significant component of emerging human infections in recent decades, and bats are increasingly recognized as reservoirs for many of these disease agents. To identify novel pathogens associated with bats, we screened tissues of bats collected in Kenya. Virus isolates were identified by next generation sequencing of viral nucleic acid preparations from the infected cell culture supernatant and characterized. Here we report the identification of Fikirini rhabdovirus, a novel rhabdovirus isolated from a bat, Hipposideros vittatus, captured along the Kenyan coast.
Analysis of Soybean mosaic virus genetic diversity in Iran allows the characterization of a new mutation resulting in overcoming Rsv4-resistance
Authors: Ahangaran Akbar , Habibi Mina Koohi , Mohammadi Gholam-Hossein Mosahebi , Winter Stephan , García-Arenal Fernando
Published: August 2013

The genetic variation and population structure of Soybean mosaic virus (SMV) in Iran was analysed through the characterization of a set of isolates collected in the soybean-growing provinces of Iran. The partial nucleotide sequence of these isolates showed a single, undifferentiated population with low genetic diversity, highly differentiated from other SMV world populations. These traits are compatible with a population bottleneck associated with the recent introduction of SMV in Iran. Phylogenetic analyses suggest that SMV was introduced into Iran from East Asia, with at least three introduction events. The limited genetic diversification of SMV in Iran may be explained by strong negative selection in most viral genes eliminating the majority of mutations, together with recombination purging deleterious mutations. The pathogenicity of Iranian SMV isolates was typified on a set of soybean differential lines either susceptible or carrying different resistance genes or alleles to SMV. Two pathotypes were distinguished according to the ability to overcome Rsv4 resistance in line V94-5152. Amino acid sequence comparisons of virulent and avirulent isolates on V94-5152 (Rsv4), plus site-directed mutagenesis in a biologically active cDNA clone, identified mutation S1053N in the P3 protein as the determinant for virulence on V94-5152. Codon 1053 was shown to be under positive selection, and S1053N-determined Rsv4-virulence occurred in isolates with different genealogies. The V94-5152 (Rsv4)-virulence determinant in Iranian isolates maps into a different amino acid position in the P3 protein than those previously reported, indicating different evolutionary pathways towards resistance breaking that might be conditioned by sequence context.
Reduced sphingosine kinase 1 activity in dengue virus type-2 infected cells can be mediated by the 3′ untranslated region of dengue virus type-2 RNA
Authors: Carr J. M. , Kua T. , Clarke J. N. , Calvert J. K , Zebol J. R. , Beard M. R. , Pitson S. M.
Published: August 2013

Sphingosine kinase 1 (SphK1) is a lipid kinase with important roles including regulation of cell survival. We have previously shown reduced SphK1 activity in cells with an established dengue virus type-2 (DENV-2) infection. In this study, we examined the effect of alterations in SphK1 activity on DENV-2 replication and cell death and determined the mechanisms of the reduction in SphK1 activity. Chemical inhibition or overexpression of SphK1 after established DENV-2 infection had no effect on infectious DENV-2 production, although inhibition of SphK1 resulted in enhanced DENV-2-induced cell death. Reduced SphK1 activity was observed in multiple cell types, regardless of the ability of DENV-2 infection to be cytopathic, and was mediated by a post-translational mechanism. Unlike bovine viral diarrhea virus, where SphK1 activity is decreased by the NS3 protein, SphK1 activity was not affected by DENV-2 NS3 but, instead, was reduced by expression of the terminal 396 bases of the 3′ UTR of DENV-2 RNA. We have previously shown that eukaryotic elongation factor 1A (eEF1A) is a direct activator of SphK1 and here DENV-2 RNA co-localized and co-precipitated with eEF1A from infected cells. We propose that the reduction in SphK1 activity late in DENV-2-infected cells is a consequence of DENV-2 out-competing SphK1 for eEF1A binding and hijacking cellular eEF1A for its own replication strategy, rather than a specific host or virus-induced change in SphK1 to modulate viral replication. Nonetheless, reduced SphK1 activity may have important consequences for survival or death of the infected cell.
Barkedji virus, a novel mosquito-borne flavivirus identified in Culex perexiguus mosquitoes, Israel, 2011
Authors: Kolodziejek Jolanta , Pachler Karin , Bin Hanna , Mendelson Ella , Shulman Lester , Orshan Laor , Nowotny Norbert
Published: August 2013

Barkedji virus, named after the area of its first identification in Senegal, is a newly discovered flavivirus (FV), for which we propose the abbreviation BJV. In the present study, we report the first-time detection of BJV in Culex perexiguus mosquitoes in Israel in 2011 and determination of its almost complete polyprotein gene sequence. We characterized the BJV genome and defined putative mature proteins, conserved structural elements and potential enzyme motifs along the polyprotein precursor. By comparing polyproteins and individual proteins of BJV with several other FVs, a distant relationship of BJV to Nounane virus (NOUV), a recently described African FV, is demonstrated. Phylogenetic analysis of 55 selected flaviviral polyprotein gene sequences exhibits two major clusters, one made up of the classical three clades of FVs: mosquito-borne, tick-borne and those without known vectors. The other cluster exclusively contains so-called ‘insect-specific’ FVs, which do not replicate in vertebrate cells. Based on our phylogenetic analysis, BJV is related to other members of the mosquito-borne clade with yet unknown vertebrate hosts, such as NOUV, Donggang virus, Chaoyang virus and Lammi virus. However, with a maximum identity of only 54 % to NOUV, BJV represents a distinct new virus species.
Arterivirus molecular biology and pathogenesis
Authors: Snijder Eric J. , Kikkert Marjolein , Fang Ying
Published: August 2013

Arteriviruses are positive-stranded RNA viruses that infect mammals. They can cause persistent or asymptomatic infections, but also acute disease associated with a respiratory syndrome, abortion or lethal haemorrhagic fever. During the past two decades, porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) and, to a lesser extent, equine arteritis virus (EAV) have attracted attention as veterinary pathogens with significant economic impact. Particularly noteworthy were the ‘porcine high fever disease’ outbreaks in South-East Asia and the emergence of new virulent PRRSV strains in the USA. Recently, the family was expanded with several previously unknown arteriviruses isolated from different African monkey species. At the molecular level, arteriviruses share an intriguing but distant evolutionary relationship with coronaviruses and other members of the orderNidovirales. Nevertheless, several of their characteristics are unique, including virion composition and structure, and the conservation of only a subset of the replicase domains encountered in nidoviruses with larger genomes. During the past 15 years, the advent of reverse genetics systems for EAV and PRRSV has changed and accelerated the structure–function analysis of arterivirus RNA and protein sequences. These systems now also facilitate studies into host immune responses and arterivirus immune evasion and pathogenesis. In this review, we have summarized recent advances in the areas of arterivirus genome expression, RNA and protein functions, virion architecture, virus–host interactions, immunity, and pathogenesis. We have also briefly reviewed the impact of these advances on disease management, the engineering of novel candidate live vaccines and the diagnosis of arterivirus infection.
Reassortment and migration analysis of Crimean–Congo haemorrhagic fever virus
Authors: Zhou Zhaorui , Deng Fei , Han Na , Wang Hualin , Sun Surong , Zhang Yujiang , Hu Zhihong , Rayner Simon
Published: August 2013

Crimean–Congo haemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) is a tick-borne virus with high pathogenicity to humans. CCHFV contains a three-segment [small (S), medium (M) and large (L)] genome and is prone to reassortment. Investigation of identified reassortment events can yield insight into the evolutionary history of the virus, while migration events reflect its geographical dissemination. While many studies have already considered these issues, they have investigated small numbers of isolates and lack statistical support for their findings. Here, we consider a larger set of 30 full genomes to investigate reassortment using recombination methods, as well as two sets of partial S segments comprising 393 isolates, reflecting a broader geographical range, to investigate migration events. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the S segment showed strong geographical subdivision, but this was less apparent in the M and L segments. A total of 16 reassortment events with 22 isolates were identified with strong statistical support. Migration analysis on the partial S segments identified both long- and short-range migration events that spanned the entire geographical region in which the CCHFV has been isolated, reflecting the complex processes associated with the dissemination of the virus.
Oncogenic ETS fusions deregulate E2F3 target genes in Ewing sarcoma and prostate cancer
Authors: Bilke Sven , Schwentner Raphaela , Yang Fan , Kauer Maximilian , Jug Gunhild , Walker Robert L. , Davis Sean , Zhu Yuelin J. , Pineda Marbin , Meltzer Paul S. , Kovar Heinrich
Published: August 2013

Deregulated E2F transcription factor activity occurs in the vast majority of human tumors and has been solidly implicated in disturbances of cell cycle control, proliferation, and apoptosis. Aberrant E2F regulatory activity is often caused by impairment of control through pRB function, but little is known about the interplay of other oncoproteins with E2F. Here we show that ETS transcription factor fusions resulting from disease driving rearrangements in Ewing sarcoma (ES) and prostate cancer (PC) are one such class of oncoproteins. We performed an integrative study of genome-wide DNA-binding and transcription data in EWSR1/FLI1 expressing ES and TMPRSS2/ERG containing PC cells. Supported by promoter activity and mutation analyses, we demonstrate that a large fraction of E2F3 target genes are synergistically coregulated by these aberrant ETS proteins. We propose that the oncogenic effect of ETS fusion oncoproteins is in part mediated by the disruptive effect of the E2F–ETS interaction on cell cycle control. Additionally, a detailed analysis of the regulatory targets of the characteristic EWSR1/FLI1 fusion in ES identifies two functionally distinct gene sets. While synergistic regulation in concert with E2F in the promoter of target genes has a generally activating effect, EWSR1/FLI1 binding independent of E2F3 is predominantly associated with repressed differentiation genes. Thus, EWSR1/FLI1 appears to promote oncogenesis by simultaneously promoting cell proliferation and perturbing differentiation.
Fostering strategic awareness at an organization's boundary
Authors: Davis Peter S. , Allen Joseph A. , Dibrell Clay
Published: August 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of strategy messages emanating from both top and middle/supervisory managers regarding five different aspects of strategy on strategic awareness among boundary personnel.

Design/methodology/approach

The results come from a survey of bank tellers and customer service representatives within a single large regional bank.

Findings

The findings support a differential main effect on strategic awareness among boundary personnel depending on the source of messages, whether top management or middle management. More interestingly, there appears to be an interaction effect between the two sources regarding which will be the dominant information source for boundary personnel.

Research limitations/implications

The survey data were collected within a single banking institution at one time point.

Practical implications

The results provide useful information concerning the efficacy of messages concerning strategy from middle and top management in organizations.

Originality/value

The paper extends past research by investigating different levels of strategic understanding within the firm across different levels and determining information dissemination strategies for increasing the level of strategic awareness among boundary personnel.
Destrudo‐L
Authors: Larsson Gerry , Fors Brandebo Maria , Nilsson Sofia
Published: August 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a short and easy to use yet psychometrically sound instrument designed to measure destructive leadership behaviours in a military context.

Design/methodology/approach

First, examples of destructive leadership behaviours in a military context were collected using a qualitative approach. Second, these examples were operationalised and pilot tested, which resulted in a 20‐item questionnaire called Destrudo‐L. Third, data were collected from three Swedish military groups (n=428). Dimensionality of the instrument was analysed using structural equation modelling. Conventional psychometric assessments of reliability and validity were performed.

Findings

A nested hierarchical model with a general factor and the following specific factors emerged: arrogant, unfair; threats, punishments, overdemands; ego‐oriented, false; passive, cowardly; and uncertain, unclear, messy. Meaningful subgroup differences and relationships with a criterion variable (lack of motivation/propensity to leave) were found. More use of active forms was reported by subordinates of younger military commanders and more use of passive forms was marked by subordinates of senior military managers.

Practical implications

The instrument is easy to administer and interpret (norm values are provided) and can be used in leader evaluation, as well as leader development, contexts.

Originality/value

The main contribution is methodological – the development of a new scale. Additional findings are a strong positive correlation between active and passive forms of destructive leadership behaviours in a military context, as well as significant differences between groups with different ranks.
Why does a good thing become too much? Interactions between foliar nutrients and toxins determine performance of an insect herbivore
Authors: Tao Leiling , Berns Alexandra R. , Hunter Mark D.
Published: August 2013

In terrestrial ecosystems, nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) are generally believed to be the most limiting factors for organisms across different trophic levels. However, accumulating evidence suggests that dietary nutrient concentrations higher than optimal can lead to decreases in consumer growth rate.

In the current study, we explored mechanisms underlying the negative effects of high nutrient availability on the performance of a specialist herbivore. Specifically, we investigated the responses of the monarch caterpillar Danaus plexippus to natural and experimental variation in N and P concentrations of three species of milkweed plants (Asclepias syriaca, Asclepias curassavica and Asclepias incarnata) that also varied in their foliar toxin concentrations.

We found that high foliar N concentrations in milkweed were associated with decreases in the growth rate of D. plexippus larvae. However, such negative effects of N were only found when larvae were feeding on A. curassavica, which also had high foliar concentrations of cardenolide, a widespread chemical defence in the genus Asclepias. Foliar N concentration was not correlated with cardenolide concentration. Rather, the per unit toxicity of cardenolide was higher as N increased in excess of demand, resulting in deleterious effects of N. Our results suggest that interactions between nutrient concentrations in excess of demand and high dietary toxin concentrations provide an additional mechanism by which high nutrient availability can reduce the performance of consumers.
Insulin‐like growth factor 1 and growth rate in nestlings of a wild passerine bird
Authors: Lodjak Jaanis , Mägi Marko , Tilgar Vallo
Published: August 2013

Post‐natal growth rate is an important life‐history trait that is strongly associated with survival during the transition to independence and the overwinter period. In laboratory conditions, insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1) has been shown to be one of the main hormones regulating growth and development in maturing vertebrates. However, the extent to which plasmaIGF‐1 enhances growth in free‐living animals, particularly in birds, is still unclear.

In this study, we used brood size manipulation in free‐living great tits (Parus major) to investigate how changes in nestling nutritional condition and post‐natal growth rate are related to nestlingIGF‐1 levels.

Nestlings in reduced broods had increased post‐natal growth rate, better body condition and also higherIGF‐1 levels prior to fledging than those in control and enlarged broods. PlasmaIGF‐1 levels were higher in the middle of the nestling period, when growth rate is most rapid, than in the pre‐fledging stage.

Our results suggest that nestling plasmaIGF‐1 varies depending upon resource (e.g. food) availability and potentially plays an important role in regulating the post‐natal growth and development of wild passerines in a time‐specific manner.
Phylogenetic conservatism in plant phenology
Authors: Davies T. Jonathan , Wolkovich Elizabeth M. , Kraft Nathan J. B. , Salamin Nicolas , Allen Jenica M. , Ault Toby R. , Betancourt Julio L. , Bolmgren Kjell , Cleland Elsa E. , Cook Benjamin I. , Crimmins Theresa M. , Mazer Susan J. , McCabe Gregory J. , Pau Stephanie , Regetz Jim , Schwartz Mark D. , Travers Steven E.
Published: August 2013

Phenological events – defined points in the life cycle of a plant or animal – have been regarded as highly plastic traits, reflecting flexible responses to various environmental cues.

The ability of a species to track, via shifts in phenological events, the abiotic environment through time might dictate its vulnerability to future climate change. Understanding the predictors and drivers of phenological change is therefore critical.

Here, we evaluated evidence for phylogenetic conservatism – the tendency for closely related species to share similar ecological and biological attributes – in phenological traits across flowering plants. We aggregated published and unpublished data on timing of first flower and first leaf, encompassing ˜4000 species at 23 sites across theNorthern Hemisphere. We reconstructed the phylogeny for the set of included species, first, using the software program Phylomatic, and second, fromDNAdata. We then quantified phylogenetic conservatism in plant phenology within and across sites.

We show that more closely related species tend to flower and leaf at similar times. By contrasting mean flowering times within and across sites, however, we illustrate that it is not the time of year that is conserved, but rather the phenological responses to a common set of abiotic cues.

Our findings suggest that species cannot be treated as statistically independent when modelling phenological responses.

Synthesis. Closely related species tend to resemble each other in the timing of their life‐history events, a likely product of evolutionarily conserved responses to environmental cues. The search for the underlying drivers of phenology must therefore account for species' shared evolutionary histories.
Desiccation sensitivity and successful cryopreservation of oil seeds of European hazelnut (Corylus avellana)
Authors: Michalak M. , Plitta B.P. , Chmielarz P.
Published: August 2013

The sensitivity of a Polish provenance of dormant Corylus avellana seeds to extreme desiccation and cryopreservation in liquid nitrogen (LN, −196°C) was investigated. No sensitivity to desiccation was observed as seeds readily germinated and exhibited seedling emergence, even when the critical water content (WC) of seeds (nuts devoid of pericarp) was reduced to 0.027 g H2O/g dry mass, g g−1 by drying. Results of germination and seedling emergence tests indicated that seeds tolerated cooling in LN when desiccated to a WC in the range of 0.05–0.10 and 0.08–0.10 g g−1, respectively. The results of this study demonstrate the feasibility of long‐term cryopreservation of European hazelnut seeds. As the seeds of this species have been classified in several different categories (orthodox, suborthodox and recalcitrant), based on their response to desiccation and low temperature, the assignment of the seeds of hazelnut to a specific category is provided and discussed.
Registry of gastric cancer treatment evaluation (REGATE): I baseline disease characteristics
Authors: Bang Yung‐Jue , Yalcin Suayib , Roth Arnaud , Hitier Simon , Ter‐Ovanesov Mikhail , Wu Chew‐Wun , Zalcberg John
Published: August 2013

Aims

A better understanding of treatment patterns and outcomes in different countries should improve the management of patients with gastric cancer globally. The REgistry of GAstric Cancer Treatment Evaluation (REGATE) study was established to evaluate variations in gastric cancer disease characteristics and treatment patterns in different parts of the world.

Methods

REGATE was a prospective international registry enrolling patients with newly diagnosed gastric cancer at any stage of the disease.

Results

A total of 10 299 patients (65% male; mean age 59 years) were recruited in 22 countries between 2004 and 2008. Tumor location at a proximal site was more common in Europe, Latin America and North Africa (approximately 20%) than in Asia‐Pacific, where antral location predominated. Signet‐ring cell histology predominated except in Europe, where adenocarcinoma was most prevalent. Stage I cancers were more frequent in Asia‐Pacific (39%) versus other regions (6−18%), whereas stage IV cancers were more frequent outside Asia‐Pacific. Surgery was planned for most patients, although in general fewer patients actually received surgery than originally planned. Adjuvant therapy and palliative care were generally used more frequently than originally planned. Overall, 15% of patients received no treatment (Asia‐Pacific 8%; Indian subcontinent 25%).

Conclusions

These results provide a comprehensive database representative of gastric cancer disease characteristics and treatment patterns across the world.
Serum or breast milk immunoglobulins mask the self‐reactivity of human natural IgG antibodies
Authors: Djoumerska‐Alexieva Iglika , Manoylov Iliyan , Dimitrov Jordan D. , Tchorbanov Andrey
Published: August 2013

B cells producing IgG antibodies specific to a variety of self‐ or foreign antigens are a normal constituent of the immune system of all healthy individuals. These naturally occurring IgG antibodies are found in the serum, external secretions, and pooled human immunoglobulin preparations. They bind with low affinity to antigens, which can also be targets for pathologic autoantibodies. An enhancement of naturally occurring IgG autoantibody activity was observed after treatment of human IgG molecules with protein‐destabilizing agents. We have investigated the interactions of human immunoglobulins that were obtained from serum or from breast milk of healthy individuals or IVIg with human liver antigens. Proteins from an individual serum or milk were isolated by two methods, one of which included exposure to low pH and the other did not. Purified serum, mucosal IgM, IgA, and the fraction containing immunoglobulin G F(ab’)2 fragments each inhibited the binding of a single donor or pooled IgG to human liver antigens. Our study presents findings regarding the role of the breast milk or serum antibodies in blocking the self‐reactivity of IgG antibodies. It supports the suggestion that not IVIg only, but also the pooled human IgM and IgA might possess a potent beneficial immunomodulatory activity in autoimmune patients.
Mycobacteria in Finnish cooling tower waters
Authors: Torvinen Eila , Suomalainen Sini , Paulin Lars , Kusnetsov Jaana
Published: August 2013

Evaporative cooling towers are water systems used in, e.g., industry and telecommunication to remove excess heat by evaporation of water. Temperatures of cooling waters are usually optimal for mesophilic microbial growth and cooling towers may liberate massive amounts of bacterial aerosols. Outbreaks of legionellosis associated with cooling towers have been known since the 1980's, but occurrences of other potentially pathogenic bacteria in cooling waters are mostly unknown. We examined the occurrence of mycobacteria, which are common bacteria in different water systems and may cause pulmonary and other soft tissue infections, in cooling waters containing different numbers of legionellae. Mycobacteria were isolated from all twelve cooling systems and from 92% of the 24 samples studied. Their numbers in the positive samples varied from 10 to 7.3 × 104 cfu/L. The isolated species included M. chelonae/abscessus, M. fortuitum, M. mucogenicum, M. peregrinum, M. intracellulare, M. lentiflavum, M. avium/nebraskense/scrofulaceum and many non‐pathogenic species. The numbers of mycobacteria correlated negatively with the numbers of legionellae and the concentration of copper. The results show that cooling towers are suitable environments for potentially pathogenic mycobacteria. Further transmission of mycobacteria from the towers to the environment needs examination.
Seed bank and its restoration potential in Estonian flooded meadows
Authors: Metsoja Jaak‐Albert , Neuenkamp Lena , Zobel Martin
Published: August 2013

Questions

What is the overall restoration potential of the persistent soil seed bank of abandoned flooded meadows? To what degree does the share of typical flooded meadow species in the soil seed bank change during secondary succession from traditionally managed hayfields to stages overgrown by woody vegetation?

Location

Flooded meadows in Alam‐Pedja Nature Reserve, central Estonia (26°14′ E, 58°33′ N).

Methods

The species composition of above‐ground vegetation and the persistent soil seed bank were investigated with PerMANOVA and non‐metric multidimensional scaling in mown, 25‐yr abandoned and 50‐yr abandoned sedge and tall forb meadows subjected to annual flooding. Particular attention was given to typical flooded meadow species in the persistent soil seed bank. General linear models and non‐parametric tests were used to assess successional trends in seed bank richness, density, similarity to target vegetation and percentage of flooded meadow species to assess the restoration potential of the soil seed bank.

Results

The cessation of traditional management has led to considerable changes in both above‐ground and seed bank communities, differences between successional stages being more pronounced in the soil seed bank. The density of the seed bank was higher in abandoned meadows. Diversity in the vegetation and soil seed bank was lowest in the 25‐yr abandoned tall forb meadows. Although the soil seed bank similarity to above‐ground mown meadows (locally defined target vegetation) was relatively low across different successional stages, the proportion of flooded meadow species in the seed bank remained high – even after 50‐yr abandonment, on average 42% of emerged seeds from sedge meadow and 34% from tall forb meadow were typical flooded meadow species.

Conclusions

Abandoned floodplain meadows in central Estonia still contain a relatively large grassland community species pool, including a large and effective soil seed bank. The soil seed bank could thus play an important role in the restoration of abandoned and overgrown meadow communities. Targeted experiments addressing the optimal techniques for activating the soil seed bank in flooded meadow soil are needed.
Antidepressant tolerability in anxious and depressed youth at high risk for bipolar disorder: a prospective naturalistic treatment study
Authors: Strawn Jeffrey R , Adler Caleb M , McNamara Robert K , Welge Jeffrey A , Bitter Samantha M , Mills Neil P , Barzman Drew H , Cerullo Michael A , Chang Kiki D , Strakowski Stephen M , DelBello Melissa P
Published: August 2013

Objective

Depressive and anxiety disorders are common in youth who are at risk for bipolar disorder (i.e., youth who have at least one parent with bipolar disorder) and antidepressants are commonly prescribed as treatment. However, there are few data regarding the safety and tolerability of antidepressants in this population. Therefore, we sought to prospectively examine the effects of these medications in children and adolescents who are diagnosed with depressive or anxiety disorders and have a parent with bipolar I disorder.

Methods

Youth aged 9–20 years, with at least one parent with bipolar I disorder [high risk (HR)], were recruited (n = 118) and assessed using semi‐structured diagnostic interviews. Participants were prospectively evaluated using a modified version of the Longitudinal Interval Follow‐up Evaluation to assess changes in affective and anxiety symptoms and were treated naturalistically.

Results

Over the course of 43–227 weeks (mean duration of follow‐up: 106 ± 55 weeks), 21% (n = 25) of youth had antidepressant exposure and, of these, 57% (n = 12) had an adverse reaction (e.g., irritability, aggression, impulsivity, or hyperactivity) that led to antidepressant discontinuation. Those patients who experienced an adverse reaction were significantly younger than those who did not (p = 0.02) and discontinuation of antidepressant therapy secondary to an adverse event occurred at an average of 16.7 ± 17.4 weeks (median: 11 weeks, range: 2–57 weeks). Cox proportional hazard analyses yielded a hazard ratio of 0.725 (p = 0.03), suggesting that there is a 27% decrease in the likelihood of an antidepressant‐related adverse event leading to discontinuation with each one‐year increase in age.

Conclusions

Antidepressant medications may be poorly tolerated in youth with a familial risk for developing mania. Controlled studies further assessing treatments for depression and anxiety in HR youth are urgently needed.
Thompson, Phillip M (2012) Returning to realityLutterworth (Cambridge) isbn 978‐0‐7188‐9295‐1 130 pp £15 (paper and e‐book) http://www.lutterworth.com/product_info.php/products_id/1842
Authors: Hammer Sara
Published: August 2013

This book offers a broad‐brush critique of the role of technology in modern life as seen through the spiritual lens of Thomas Merton's writing. The author, a theologian, argues that we must carefully balance the benefits of modern technology with its perils if we are to retain our humanity, as well as any vestige of the contemplative life. His general focus and generalising style mean that there is little here that specifically relates to, or would interest those in, educational technology. Target readers include theologians, philosophers and anyone interested.

Sara Hammer
Parents’ experiences with physical and occupational therapy for their young child with cerebral palsy: a mixed studies review
Authors: Kruijsen‐Terpstra A. J. A. , Ketelaar M. , Boeije H. , Jongmans M. J. , Gorter J. W. , Verheijden J. , Lindeman E. , Verschuren O.
Published: August 2013

Understanding the experiences of parents with their child's intervention might help meet the needs of parents and, subsequently get them engaged in their child's intervention. As parents’ early beliefs regarding their child's intervention has consequences for treatment participation, it is important to understand these parental perspectives. The aim of this mixed studies review was to give an overview of the experiences and related factors of parents of young children (0–5 years of age) with cerebral palsy in relation to the physical and/or occupational therapy of their child in a rehabilitation setting. The literature was searched systematically for qualitative and quantitative studies published between January 1990 and July 2011. Inclusion criteria were (1) the study population consisted of parents of children with cerebral palsy, with at least 25% of children under the age of five; (2) children had received physical and/or occupational therapy in a rehabilitation setting; and (3) the experiences of the parents with their child's therapy were addressed. Data were synthesized with the framework synthesis method resulting in a conceptual framework describing the factors that are related to the parents’ experiences with their child's interventions. A total of 13 studies (eight qualitative and five quantitative) were included and evaluated. Parents expressed various aspects in context, process and outcomes when asked about their experiences with their child's intervention. They had different needs over time and needed time to build a collaborative relationship with their child's therapists. The proposed framework acknowledges the various aspects in context, process and outcomes that parents reported when asked about their experiences. Knowing this, the importance of the broader context of the child in a family should be acknowledged; realizing the impact that the demands of daily life, supports and resources provided to parents, attitudes in the community and culture have on parental experiences.
Orienting Attention Within Visual Short‐Term Memory: Development and Mechanisms
Authors: Shimi Andria , Nobre Anna C. , Astle Duncan , Scerif Gaia
Published: August 2013

How does developing attentional control operate within visual short‐term memory (VSTM)? Seven‐year‐olds, 11‐year‐olds, and adults (total n = 205) were asked to report whether probe items were part of preceding visual arrays. In Experiment 1, central or peripheral cues oriented attention to the location of to‐be‐probed items either prior to encoding or during maintenance. Cues improved memory regardless of their position, but younger children benefited less from cues presented during maintenance, and these benefits related to VSTM span over and above basic memory in uncued trials. In Experiment 2, cues of low validity eliminated benefits, suggesting that even the youngest children use cues voluntarily, rather than automatically. These findings elucidate the close coupling between developing visuospatial attentional control and VSTM.
Multiple-digit periungual Bowen's disease: a novel treatment approach with radiotherapy
Authors: Hunt W. T. , Cameron A. , Craig P. , de Berker D. A.
Published: August 2013

Multiple periungual Bowen disease [BD; also known as squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in situ] is rare. The pathogenesis of the disease is linked to human papilloma virus, and in some instances to chronic immunosuppression. The usual management of periungual BD is by local excision, Mohs micrographic surgery or distal phalanx amputation. Our patient was offered radiotherapy in the hope of maximizing residual function and minimizing morbidity from treatment. A good response was seen at 2 months post-radiotherapy, but this was followed by relapses at 4 and 6 months post-radiotherapy. Persistent anonychia resulted in improved access to the involved skin, making topical therapy possible. Radiotherapy can be a valuable management approach for periungual SCC/BD in locations where amputation could result in substantial disability.
Influenza infection results in local expansion of memory CD8+ T cells with antigen non-specific phenotype and function
Authors: Sckisel Gail D , Tietze Julia K , Zamora Anthony E , Hsiao Hua-Hui , Priest Stephen O , Wilkins Danice E C , Lanier Louis L , Blazar Bruce R , Baumgarth Nicole , Murphy William J
Published: August 2013

Primary viral infections induce activation of CD8+ T cells responsible for effective resistance. We sought to characterize the nature of the CD8+ T cell expansion observed after primary viral infection with influenza. Infection of naive mice with different strains of influenza resulted in the rapid expansion of memory CD8+ T cells exhibiting a unique bystander phenotype with significant up-regulation of natural killer group 2D (NKG2D), but not CD25, on the CD44highCD8+ T cells, suggesting an antigen non-specific phenotype. We further confirmed the non-specificity of this phenotype on ovalbumin-specific (OT-I) CD8+ T cells, which are not specific to influenza. These non-specific CD8+ T cells also displayed increased lytic capabilities and were observed primarily in the lung. Thus, influenza infection was shown to induce a rapid, antigen non-specific memory T cell expansion which is restricted to the specific site of inflammation. In contrast, CD8+ T cells of a similar phenotype could be observed in other organs following administration of systemic agonistic anti-CD40 and interleukin-2 immunotherapy, demonstrating that bystander expansion in multiple sites is possible depending on whether the nature of activation is either acute or systemic. Finally, intranasal blockade of NKG2D resulted in a significant increase in viral replication early during the course of infection, suggesting that NKG2D is a critical mediator of anti-influenza responses prior to the initiation of adaptive immunity. These results characterize further the local bystander expansion of tissue-resident, memory CD8+ T cells which, due to their early induction, may play an important NKG2D-mediated, antigen non-specific role during the early stages of viral infection.
Discovering the Sequential Structure of Thought
Authors: Anderson John R. , Fincham Jon M.
Published: August 2013

Multi‐voxel pattern recognition techniques combined with Hidden Markov models can be used to discover the mental states that people go through in performing a task. The combined method identifies both the mental states and how their durations vary with experimental conditions. We apply this method to a task where participants solve novel mathematical problems. We identify four states in the solution of these problems: Encoding, Planning, Solving, and Respond. The method allows us to interpret what participants are doing on individual problem‐solving trials. The duration of the planning state varies on a trial‐to‐trial basis with novelty of the problem. The duration of solution stage similarly varies with the amount of computation needed to produce a solution once a plan is devised. The response stage similarly varies with the complexity of the answer produced. In addition, we identified a number of effects that ran counter to a prior model of the task. Thus, we were able to decompose the overall problem‐solving time into estimates of its components and in way that serves to guide theory.
High‐intensity exercise promotes postexercise hypotension greater than moderate intensity in elderly hypertensive individuals
Authors: Brito Aline de F. , de Oliveira Caio Victor C. , Santos Maria do Socorro B. , Santos Amilton da C.
Published: August 2013

Objective

To evaluate the effects of high‐intensity resistance exercise on postexercise hypotension (PEH) and forearm vascular resistance (FVR) in the hypertensive elderly.

Methodology

The study was conducted with ten hypertensive elderly individuals (65 ± 3 years, 28·7 ± 3 kg m−2). They were subjected to three experimental sessions: control session (SC), exercise 50% (S50%) and 80% (S80%) of 1RM. For each session, subjects were evaluated pre‐and postintervention. In the preintervention, the blood pressure (BP) and FVR were measured after 10 min of rest. Thereafter, they were taken to the gym to perform the exercise sessions or remained at rest in each of the equipment during the same time. Both S50% and S80% were composed of a set of ten repetitions of ten exercises, with an interval of 90 s between exercises. Subsequently, the FVR and BP measurements were again performed at 10, 30, 50, 70 and 90 min of recovery (postintervention).

Results

The PEH was greater in S80% compared with S50%, with the lower value of BP being found at 90 min of recovery for the two sessions (systolic BP: 115 ± 3,0 mmHg versus 124 ± 5 mmHg; diastolic BP: 75 ± 5 mmHg versus 86 ± 3 mmHg and mean BP: 87 ± 3 mmHg versus 95 ± 4 mmHg, respectively). Concomitantly, the FVR also decreased significantly in both sessions, this reduction being more evident in S80% (P<0·05).

Conclusion

High‐intensity resistance exercise was effective in promoting PEH, this phenomenon being accompanied by a reduction in FVR within the first minute of recovery in the hypertensive elderly.
Clinical usefulness of double‐guidewire technique for difficult biliary cannulation in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography
Authors: Ito Kei , Horaguchi Jun , Fujita Naotaka , Noda Yutaka , Kobayashi Go , Koshita Shinsuke , Kanno Yoshihide , Ogawa Takahisa , Masu Kaori , Hashimoto Shinichi
Published: August 2013

Background and Aim

Although biliary cannulation with pancreatic guidewire placement (P‐GW) is useful for difficult cases in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), the clinical significance of wire‐guided cannulation with P‐GW (double‐guidewire technique: DGT) has not been clarified. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the usefulness of DGT for difficult biliary cannulation after unsuccessful biliary cannulation using a cannula/sphincterotome under guidance of injected contrast with P‐GW (single‐guidewire technique: SGT).

Methods

One‐hundred and forty‐six patients with difficult biliary cannulation who underwent SGT were included in this retrospective study. DGT was carried out if SGT was unsuccessful. Pancreatic duct (PD) stenting was attempted to prevent post‐ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) in all patients. The success rate of cannulation and the risk factors for PEP were investigated.

Results

Biliary cannulation with SGT was achieved in 70%. DGT was carried out in 25 patients with unsuccessful SGT, biliarycannulation being successful in 72%. Of the 13 patients who underwent precut sphincterotomy, biliary cannulation was achieved in 46%. The incidence of PEP in patients who had undergone SGT, DGT, and precut sphincterotomy was 8% (12: mild, 8; moderate, 3; severe, 1), 4% (mild, 1), and 0%, respectively. PD stenting was successfully carried out in 86%. Multivariate analysis revealed unsuccessful PD stenting to be the only risk factor for PEP (OR 8.3, 95% CI 2.3–30).

Conclusions

DGT may replace SGT or become the salvage procedure in cases of unsuccessful SGT as a result of its high success rate with an acceptable incidence of PEP. Failed pancreatic duct stenting in these techniques was frequently associated with PEP.