bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global diversity and molecular systematics of Wrightoporia s.l. (Russulales, Basidiomycota)
Authors: Chen J.J. , Cui B.K. , Dai Y.C.
Published: September 2015

Wrightoporia accommodates polypores producing finely asperulate and amyloid basidiospores, and causing white rot. Thirty-nine species have been described or transferred to this genus; however, only a few species have been referred to molecular phylogeny. In this study, about
140 worldwide specimens of Wrightoporia s.l. were studied morphologically, and ITS and/or nLSU regions from 37 samples, representing 19 species, were sequenced for phylogenetic analysis. Six clades of Wrightoporia s.l. were recognized. The Wrightoporia s.str. clade includes
W. avellanea, W. lenta (the generic type) and W. subavellanea. Three clades segregating from Wrightoporia s.str. were proposed separately as three new genera, namely Larssoniporia gen. nov., Pseudowrightoporia gen. nov. and Wrightoporiopsis
gen. nov. Two other clades were named after Amylonotus and Amylosporus. According to phylogenetic and morphological evidence, species previously treated in Wrightoporia were transferred to Amylonotus, Amylosporus and the new genera, or were retained as members
of Wrightoporia s.l. because no good solution for these species could be found so far. In addition, one new species in Larssoniporia, three new species in Pseudowrightoporia and two new species in Wrightoporiopsis were described. Identification keys to the six genera
and species in Amylonotus, Amylosporus, Larssoniporia, Pseudowrightoporia, Wrightoporia and Wrightoporiopsis are provided, respectively.
ASSESSMENT OF THE ADSORPTION KINETICS, EQUILIBRIUM AND THERMODYNAMICS FOR THE POTENTIAL REMOVAL OF NI²⁺ FROM AQUEOUS SOLUTION USING WASTE EGGSHELL
Authors: ASLAN Sukru , POLAT Ayben , TOPCU Ugur Savas
Published: September 2015

In this study, Ni2+ sorption onto the waste eggshell was investigated under different operational conditions. Results indicated that the eggshell could be successfully used to remove Ni2+ ions from the water. Quick sorption process reached to equilibrium in about 2 hours with maximum sorption at pH 7.0. Based on the experimental data, Langmuir isotherm model with the qm value of 1.845 mg Ni2+/g eggshell was observed. The pseudo-second-order model provided the best correlation coefficient in comparison with other models. The calculated qe values derived from the pseudo-second-order for sorption of Ni2+ ions were very close to the experimental (qexp) values. Such thermodynamic parameters as ΔG°, ΔH°, and ΔS° were determined in order to predict the nature of adsorption. Results indicated that the adsorption of Ni2+ onto the eggshell was endothermically supported by the increasing adsorption of Ni2+ ions with temperature.
POSSIBILITIES TO USE TEXTILE CORD WASTE FROM USED TIRES FOR CONCRETE
Authors: MALAIŠKIENĖ Jurgita , NAGROCKIENĖ Džigita , SKRIPKIŪNAS Gintautas
Published: September 2015

The goal of the study was to determine the effect of waste tire cord yarn with attached rubber particles on the properties of concrete made of different types of cement (Portland cement without additives – CEM I, Portland cement with limestone additive – CEM II). The filament waste (added at 0%, 2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, and 10% of the amount of fine aggregate) is water absorbing textile fibre additive with rubber particles, therefore a bigger amount of water is required to prepare the concrete mixture. With waste additive, the density and compressive strength of concrete reduces, but water absorption increases. The forecasted freeze-thaw resistance of concrete with cement type CEM I and recycled tire cord increases and slightly reduces when cement type CEM II is used, however retains similar resistance in about 1000 freeze-thaw cycles. The coefficient of thermal conductivity decreases approx. 35%, when 10% of recycled tire textile cord is added to concrete mixture.
DYNAMIC FUZZY MULTIPLE CRITERIA DECISION MAKING FOR PERFORMANCE EVALUATION
Authors: LI Guangxu , Gang KOU Gang , PENG Yi
Published: September 2015

The paper proposes a dynamic fuzzy multiple criteria decision making (DFMCDM) method. The method considers the integrated weight of the decision makers with the subjective and objective preference and the effect of time weight. In the proposed method, a mathematical programming model is used to determine the integrated weight, and a basic unit-interval monotonic (BUM) function based approach is used to calculate the time weight. In addition, a distance measure of membership function is introduced to effectively measure the degree of difference between the alternatives in the Fuzzy Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (FTOPSIS). Finally, a numerical example is introduced to illustrate the proposed method.
ON THE RATIO OF FUZZY NUMBERS – EXACT MEMBERSHIP FUNCTION COMPUTATION AND APPLICATIONS TO DECISION MAKING
Authors: STANOJEVIĆ Bogdana , DZIŢAC Ioan , DZIŢAC Simona
Published: September 2015

In the present paper, we propose a new approach to solving the full fuzzy linear fractional programming problem. By this approach, we provide a tool for making good decisions in certain problems in which the goals may be modelled by linear fractional functions under linear constraints; and when only vague data are available. In order to evaluate the membership function of the fractional objective, we use the α-cut interval of a special class of fuzzy numbers, namely the fuzzy numbers obtained as sums of products of triangular fuzzy numbers with positive support. We derive the α-cut interval of the ratio of such fuzzy numbers, compute the exact membership function of the ratio, and introduce a way to evaluate the error that arises when the result is approximated by a triangular fuzzy number. We analyse the effect of this approximation on solving a full fuzzy linear fractional programming problem. We illustrate our approach by solving a special example – a decision-making problem in production planning.
MYTHS OF THE NORTH AND ORIGINS OF CITY-FORM: SOME REFLECTIONS ACROSS HISTORY AND PREHISTORY
Authors: Akkerman Abraham
Published: September 2015

Early environmental myths of the body and the sky have been instrumental in the emergence of prehistoric urban environments, and have continued to play an important role in urban design through history to this time. The notions of the body, as the absolutely immediate, and the sky, as the unreachably distant are shown here as precursors to the core proposition of mind-environment transactions, introduced by Walter Benjamin a century ago. Late prehistory and early antiquity manifest the idea of epochal and ongoing progression in mind-city interaction, specifically, as a gender-based configuration of edifice versus space, or volume versus void, in the built environment. The North Star, as a celestial feature representing permanency and solidity, was critical in the formation of masculine myths of the environment upon which the very notion of a designed edifice had been founded, and from which the early city had emerged. The feminine counterpart of the edifice is urban void, often the garden, the street or the city square. Whereas in Neolithic communities the open ritual space seems to have been the most important design element, city-form since antiquity has habitually accentuated the masculinity of edifices over designed voids. More feminine attituted drawing on prehistoric acumen can help refocusing the emphasis on urban volume, onto dynamic urban design of open public spaces for human movement in the city.
INVESTIGATION OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MUSEUMS AND CITIES IN THE CONTEXT OF IMAGE: CASES FROM ISTANBUL
Authors: Ozorhon Ilker Fatih , Ozorhon Guliz
Published: September 2015

Whether created by transforming historic buildings, whether contemporary and new design products, museums play a key role in terms of the image and attractiveness of the city they are located in. This study investigates the relation that the museums in Istanbul have established with the city in the context of image. The method employed is to first introduce the theoretical context of the subject based on literature review; to analyze the selected museums in terms of the city-museum interaction and to evaluate the selected museums within the context of the contributions they make to the image of Istanbul by descriptive methodology. As a result, the contribution of the museums on the city and the contribution of the city on the museums have been demonstrated and the varying and symbiotic nature of this relationship has been emphasized.
L’influence de la consommation alimentaire sur la crédulité par rapport aux théories du complot : une étude expérimentale
Authors: Bauer Raposo Benjamin , Pantazi Myrto , Klein Olivier
Published: September 2015

L’objectif de cette étude consiste à étudier l’influence de la prise alimentaire sur la crédulité par rapport aux théories du complot. Nous nous proposons d’étudier cette question dans un cadre télévisuel. Des travaux récents (Topolinski, Lindler, et Freudenberg, 2013) suggèrent que la prise alimentaire pendant l’exposition à des messages persuasifs est susceptible d’influencer l’adhésion à ces messages. L’étude a été menée auprès d’étudiants universitaires (N = 66). Dans la condition « contrôle », ils visionnaient un documentaire défendant une théorie du complot et répondaient ensuite à un questionnaire élaboré pour mesurer leur crédulité vis-à-vis des informations qui y étaient présentées. Dans la condition « alimentation », les participants étaient invités à consommer des snacks (Smarties ® ) en parallèle à la vision du documentaire. Nous constatons une adhésion au message présenté plus importante en présence qu’en absence de prise alimentaire mais surtout chez les sujets généralement sceptiques par rapport aux théories du complot. Sur une des deux mesures, on observe une configuration inverse chez les personnes possédant des attitudes favorables par rapport aux théories du complot. Nous proposons que l’humeur positive générée par la consommation alimentaire a pu faciliter l’activation de réponse cohérente avec les attitudes initiales vis-à-vis du complot.
Psychopathologie implicite de l’anonymat sur Internet
Authors: Saillot Isabelle
Published: September 2015

Les recherches en psychologie sociale de l’anonymat sur Internet appartiennent à une riche tradition de pensée dont les premières pages se sont écrites peu avant 1900. Le modèle SIDE (Social Identity model of Deindividuation Effects) fait suite aux travaux de Festinger sur la « désindividuation », qui avaient été inspirés par la Psychologie des foules de Le Bon (1895). Celui-ci était admirait Ribot, qui allait bientôt former Janet. Ces origines se signalent encore dans les modèles actuels de psychologie sociale en tant que psychopathologie implicite. Un récent article (Guegan et Michinov, 2011) alimentera la réflexion ici menée, autour de la prise en compte de l’action, des sentiments de présence et d’anonymat, et du problème de l’inhibition.
Elites y conflictividad en el seno de las aljamas mudéjares castellanas a fines de la Edad Media: exención tributaria y redes clientelares
Authors: Ortego Rico Pablo
Published: September 2015

Estudio de los conflictos desarrollados en las aljamas mudéjares castellanas durante el siglo XV, con especial énfasis en el análisis de las disputas asociadas a la presencia de grupos privilegiados integrados en redes clientelares que trascendían el marco de la comunidad musulmana local. Para este propósito hemos considerado dos casos de estudio representativos. Por un lado, el análisis del conflicto sostenido entre la aljama de Trujillo y la familia Plaza permite profundizar en el conocimiento de las formas de exclusión desarrolladas por la comunidad musulmana contra grupos privilegiados integrados en facciones urbanas. Por otro, se han estudiado las disputas desarrolladas en el seno de la comunidad mudéjar de Guadalajara entre los miembros privilegiados de la clientela del linaje Mendoza y la aljama, y su relación con los conflictos entre facciones mudéjares sostenidos a fines del siglo XV.
Human β Defensin-3 Increases CD86 Expression on Monocytes by Activating the ATP-Gated Channel P2X7
Authors: Lioi Anthony B. , Ferrari Brian M. , Dubyak George R. , Weinberg Aaron , Sieg Scott F.
Published: September 2015

Human β defensin-3 (hBD-3), an epithelial cell–derived antimicrobial peptide, mediates chemotaxis and activation of myeloid cells. In this study, we provide evidence that hBD-3 induces the costimulatory molecule CD86 on primary human monocytes by a mechanism involving autocrine activation of ionotropic P2X7 receptors (P2X7R) by ATP. Incubation of monocytes with hBD-3 resulted in increased expression of both the CD80 and CD86 costimulatory molecules. Treatment of monocytes with a selective P2X7R antagonist inhibited the ability of hBD-3 to induce expression of CD86 but not CD80. The hBD-3–dependent upregulation of CD86 was also attenuated in monocytes incubated with apyrase, a potent scavenger of extracellular ATP. Finally, direct activation of monocyte P2X7R by exogenous ATP mimicked the ability of hBD-3 to induce CD86 expression. These data suggest that hBD-3 induces monocyte activation by both P2X7-dependent (CD86 upregulation) and P2X7-independent (CD80 upregulation) signaling mechanisms and raise the possibility that activation of P2X7R could play an important role in shaping the inflammatory microenvironment in conditions where hBD-3 is highly expressed, such as psoriasis or oral carcinoma.
FTY720 Abrogates Collagen-Induced Arthritis by Hindering Dendritic Cell Migration to Local Lymph Nodes
Authors: Han Yanping , Li Xing , Zhou Qingyou , Jie Hongyu , Lao Xiaobin , Han Jiaochan , He Juan , Liu Xinxia , Gu Dongsheng , He Yi , Sun Erwei
Published: September 2015

Because dendritic cells (DCs) play critical roles in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis, modulation of their functions could serve as a novel therapy. In this study, we demonstrated that FTY720 treatment significantly suppressed the incidence and severity of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) in DBA/1J mice via the modulation of DC functions. In FTY720-treated CIA mice, a decrease in the number of DCs in local draining lymph nodes (LNs) was observed. In vitro, FTY720 inhibited the trafficking of LPS-stimulated bone marrow–derived DCs (BMDCs). Decreased secretion of CCL19 and downregulation of CCR7 on DCs may explain the mechanisms underlying the impairment of DC migration induced by FTY720. In a DC-induced mouse arthritis model, FTY720 treatment also suppressed the incidence and severity of arthritis, which was correlated with a decrease in the migration of injected BMDCs to draining LNs. Although lower levels of costimulatory molecules (CD40, CD80, and CD86) and I-Aq expressed on LN DCs were observed in FTY720-treated mice, in vitro analysis showed no effect of FTY720 on LPS-stimulated BMDC maturation. Furthermore, LN cells from FTY720-treated CIA mice displayed diminished production of proinflammatory cytokines in response to collagen II and Con A stimulation. In addition, the ratio of Th1/Th2 in the draining LNs of mice with DC-induced arthritis was decreased upon FTY720 treatment. This finding was consistent with the fact that FTY720 suppressed IL-12p70 production in cultured BMDCs. Taken together, these results indicate that inhibition of DC migration by FTY720 may provide a novel approach in treating autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Regulation of Adaptive NK Cells and CD8 T Cells by HLA-C Correlates with Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation and with Cytomegalovirus Reactivation
Authors: Horowitz Amir , Guethlein Lisbeth A. , Nemat-Gorgani Neda , Norman Paul J. , Cooley Sarah , Miller Jeffrey S. , Parham Peter
Published: September 2015

Mass cytometry was used to investigate the effect of CMV reactivation on lymphocyte reconstitution in hematopoietic cell transplant patients. For eight transplant recipients (four CMV negative and four CMV positive), we studied PBMCs obtained 6 mo after unrelated donor hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). Forty cell-surface markers, distinguishing all major leukocyte populations in PBMC, were analyzed with mass cytometry. This group included 34 NK cell markers. Compared with healthy controls, transplant recipients had higher HLA-C expression on CD56−CD16+ NK cells, B cells, CD33bright myeloid cells, and CD4CD8 T cells. The increase in HLA-C expression was greater for CMV-positive HCT recipients than for CMV negative recipients. Present in CMV-positive HCT recipients, but not in CMV-negative HCT recipients or controls, is a population of killer cell Ig-like receptor (KIR)-expressing CD8 T cells not previously described. These CD8 T cells coexpress CD56, CD57, and NKG2C. The HCT recipients also have a population of CD57+NKG2A+ NK cells that preferentially express KIR2DL1. An inverse correlation was observed between the frequencies of CD57+NKG2C+ NK cells and CD57+NKG2A+ NK cells. Although CD57+NKG2A+ NK cells are less abundant in CMV-positive recipients, their phenotype is of a more activated cell than the CD57+NKG2A+ NK cells of controls and CMV-negative HCT recipients. These data demonstrate that HCT and CMV reactivation are associated with an increased expression of HLA-C. This could influence NK cell education during lymphocyte reconstitution. The increased inhibitory KIR expression by proliferating CMV-specific CD8 T cells suggests regulatory interactions between HLA-C and KIR might promote Graft-versus-Leukemia effects following transplantation.
MHC/Peptide-Specific Interaction of the Humoral Immune System: A New Category of Antibodies
Authors: Held Gerhard , Luescher Immanuel F. , Neumann Frank , Papaioannou Chrysostomos , Schirrmann Thomas , Sester Martina , Smola Sigrun , Pfreundschuh Michael
Published: September 2015

Abs bind to unprocessed Ags, whereas cytotoxic CD8+ T cells recognize peptides derived from endogenously processed Ags presented in the context of class I MHC complexes. We screened, by ELISA, human sera for Abs reacting specifically with the influenza matrix protein (IMP)–derived peptide58–66 displayed by HLA-A*0201 complexes. Among 653 healthy volunteers, blood donors, and women on delivery, high-titered HLA-A*0201/IMP58–66 complex–specific IgG Abs were detected in 11 females with a history of pregnancies and in 1 male, all HLA-A*0201−. These Abs had the same specificity as HLA-A*0201/IMP58–66–specific cytotoxic T cells and bound neither to HLA-A*0201 nor the peptide alone. No such Abs were detected in HLA-A*0201+ volunteers. These Abs were not cross-reactive to other self–MHC class I alleles displaying IMP58–66, but bound to MHC class I complexes of an HLA nonidentical offspring. HLA-A*0201/IMP58–66 Abs were also detected in the cord blood of newborns, indicating that HLA-A*0201/IMP58–66 Abs are produced in HLA-A*0201− mothers and enter the fetal blood system. That Abs can bind to peptides derived from endogenous Ags presented by MHC complexes opens new perspectives on interactions between the cellular and humoral immune system.
Species-Specific Minimal Sequence Motif for Oligodeoxyribonucleotides Activating Mouse TLR9
Authors: Pohar Jelka , Lainšček Duško , Fukui Ryutaro , Yamamoto Chikako , Miyake Kensuke , Jerala Roman , Benčina Mojca
Published: September 2015

Synthetic oligodeoxyribonucleotides (ODNs) containing unmethylated CpG recapitulate the activation of TLR9 by microbial DNA. ODNs are potent stimulators of the immune response in cells expressing TLR9. Despite extensive use of mice as experimental animals in basic and applied immunological research, the key sequence determinants that govern the activation of mouse TLR9 by ODNs have not been well defined. We performed a systematic investigation of the sequence motif of B class phosphodiester ODNs to identify the sequence properties that govern mouse TLR9 activation. In contrast to ODNs activating human TLR9, where the minimal sequence motif for the receptor activation comprises a pair of closely positioned CpGs we found that the mouse TLR9 requires a single CpG positioned 4–6 nt from the 5′-end. Activation is augmented by a 5′TCC sequence one to three nucleotides from the CG. The distance of the CG dinucleotide of four to six nucleotides from the 5′-end and the ODN’s length fine-tunes activation of mouse macrophages. Length of the ODN <23 and >29 nt decreases activation of dendritic cells. The ODNs with minimal sequence induce Th1-type cytokine synthesis in dendritic cells and confirm the expression of cell surface markers in B cells. Identification of the minimal sequence provides an insight into the sequence selectivity of mouse TLR9 and points to the differences in the receptor selectivity between species probably as a result of differences in the receptor binding sites.
Fibrocytes Differ from Macrophages but Can Be Infected with HIV-1
Authors: Hashimoto Michihiro , Nasser Hesham , Bhuyan Farzana , Kuse Nozomi , Satou Yorifumi , Harada Shigeyoshi , Yoshimura Kazuhisa , Sakuragi Jun-ichi , Monde Kazuaki , Maeda Yosuke , Welbourn Sarah , Strebel Klaus , Abd El-Wahab Ekram W. , Miyazaki Mitsue , Hattori Shinichiro , Chutiwitoonchai Nopporn , Hiyoshi Masateru , Oka Shinichi , Takiguchi Masafumi , Suzu Shinya
Published: September 2015

Fibrocytes (fibroblastic leukocytes) are recently identified as unique hematopoietic cells with features of both macrophages and fibroblasts. Fibrocytes are known to contribute to the remodeling or fibrosis of various injured tissues. However, their role in viral infection is not fully understood. In this study, we show that differentiated fibrocytes are phenotypically distinguishable from macrophages but can be infected with HIV-1. Importantly, fibrocytes exhibited persistently infected cell-like phenotypes, the degree of which was more apparent than macrophages. The infected fibrocytes produced replication-competent HIV-1, but expressed HIV-1 mRNA at low levels and strongly resisted HIV-1–induced cell death, which enabled them to support an extremely long-term HIV-1 production at low but steady levels. More importantly, our results suggested that fibrocytes were susceptible to HIV-1 regardless of their differentiation state, in contrast to the fact that monocytes become susceptible to HIV-1 after the differentiation into macrophages. Our findings indicate that fibrocytes are the previously unreported HIV-1 host cells, and they suggest the importance of considering fibrocytes as one of the long-lived persistently infected cells for curing HIV-1.
Engagement of the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor in Mycobacterium tuberculosis–Infected Macrophages Has Pleiotropic Effects on Innate Immune Signaling
Authors: Memari Babak , Bouttier Manuella , Dimitrov Vassil , Ouellette Marc , Behr Marcel A. , Fritz Jorg H. , White John H.
Published: September 2015

Understanding the mechanisms of host macrophage responses to Mycobacterium tuberculosis is essential for uncovering potential avenues of intervention to boost host resistance to infection. Macrophage transcriptome profiling revealed that M. tuberculosis infection strongly induced the expression of several enzymes controlling tryptophan catabolism. These included IDO1 and tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase, which catalyze the rate-limiting step in the kynurenine pathway, producing ligands for the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR). The AHR and heterodimeric partners AHR nuclear translocator and RELB are robustly expressed, and AHR and RELB levels increased further during infection. Infection enhanced AHR/AHR nuclear translocator and AHR/RELB DNA binding and stimulated the expression of AHR target genes, including that encoding the inflammatory cytokine IL-1β. AHR target gene expression was further enhanced by exogenous kynurenine, and exogenous tryptophan, kynurenine, or synthetic agonist indirubin reduced mycobacterial viability. Comparative expression profiling revealed that AHR ablation diminished the expression of numerous genes implicated in innate immune responses, including several cytokines. Notably, AHR depletion reduced the expression of IL23A and IL12B transcripts, which encode subunits of IL-23, a macrophage cytokine that stimulates production of IL-22 by innate lymphoid cells. AHR directly induced IL23A transcription in human and mouse macrophages through near-upstream enhancer regions. Taken together, these findings show that AHR signaling is strongly engaged in M. tuberculosis–infected macrophages and has widespread effects on innate immune responses. Moreover, they reveal a cascade of AHR-driven innate immune signaling, because IL-1β and IL-23 stimulate T cell subsets producing IL-22, another direct target of AHR transactivation.
Polarization of Monocytic Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells by Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Is Mediated via ERK/IL-6/STAT3 Signaling Feedback and Restrains the Activation of T Cells in Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection
Authors: Fang Zhong , Li Jin , Yu Xiaoyu , Zhang Dandan , Ren Guangxu , Shi Bisheng , Wang Cong , Kosinska Anna D. , Wang Sen , Zhou Xiaohui , Kozlowski Maya , Hu Yunwen , Yuan Zhenghong
Published: September 2015

Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is characterized by T cell tolerance to virus. Although inhibition of T cell responses by myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) has been observed in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB), the mechanism for expansion of MDSCs remains ambiguous. In this study, a significant increased frequency of monocytic MDSCs (mMDSCs) was shown positively correlated to level of HBsAg in the patients with CHB. We further found hepatitis B surface Ag (HBsAg) efficiently promoted differentiation of mMDSCs in vitro, and monocytes in PBMCs performed as the progenitors. This required the activation of ERK/IL-6/STAT3 signaling feedback. Importantly, the mMDSCs polarized by HBsAg in vitro acquired the ability to suppress T cell activation. Additionally, treatment of all-trans retinoic acid, an MDSC-targeted drug, restored the proliferation and IFN-γ production by HBV-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in PBMCs from patients with CHB and prevented increase of viral load in mouse model. In summary, HBsAg maintains HBV persistence and suppresses T cell responses by promoting differentiation of monocytes into mMDSCs. A therapy aimed at the abrogation of MDSCs may help to disrupt immune suppression in patients with CHB.
Mechanistic Basis for Epitope Proofreading in the Peptide-Loading Complex
Authors: Fleischmann Gerda , Fisette Olivier , Thomas Christoph , Wieneke Ralph , Tumulka Franz , Schneeweiss Clemens , Springer Sebastian , Schäfer Lars V. , Tampé Robert
Published: September 2015

The peptide-loading complex plays a pivotal role in Ag processing and is thus central to the efficient immune recognition of virally and malignantly transformed cells. The underlying mechanism by which MHC class I (MHC I) molecules sample immunodominant peptide epitopes, however, remains poorly understood. In this article, we delineate the interaction between tapasin (Tsn) and MHC I molecules. We followed the process of peptide editing in real time after ultra-fast photoconversion to pseudoempty MHC I molecules. Tsn discriminates between MHC I loaded with optimal and MHC I bound to suboptimal cargo. This differential interaction is key to understanding the kinetics of epitope proofreading. To elucidate the underlying mechanism at the atomic level, we modeled the Tsn/MHC I complex using all-atom molecular dynamics simulations. We present a catalytic working cycle, in which Tsn binds to MHC I with suboptimal cargo and thereby adjusts the energy landscape in favor of MHC I complexes with immunodominant epitopes.
Gastrointestinal Mucormycosis Resulting in a Catastrophic Outcome in an Immunocompetent Patient
Authors: Antony Suresh J. , Parikh Monisha S. , Ramirez Ruben , Applebaum Bruce , Friedman Glen , Do Jennifer
Published: September 2015

We present a case of a middle-aged female who was admitted to the hospital with a respiratory infection and subsequently developed an acute surgical abdomen secondary to a perforated viscous. She was found to have mucormycosis of the intestinal tract and eventually succumbed to the sequelae of the infection.
Importance of Coryneform Bacteria in Infective Endocarditis
Authors: von Graevenitz Alexander
Published: September 2015

Coryneform bacteria have been defined as non-sporing Gram-positive rods with an irregular outline[...]
Obstructive sleep apnea in Prader-Willi syndrome: risks and advantages of adenotonsillectomy
Authors: Giordano Leone , Toma Salvatore , Palonta Francesca , Teggi Roberto , Zucconi Marco , Di Candia Stefania , Bussi Mario
Published: September 2015

Obstructive sleep apnea is a well-known clinical manifestation of Prader-Willi syndrome. The aim of our study is to evaluate the efficacy of adenotonsillectomy for the treatment of the disorder as well as the improvement of their post-operative quality of life. Five patients with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apneas and adenotonsillar hypertrophy of grade III-IV underwent adenotonsillectomy. Pre- and postoperative apneas and Quality of Life were assessed respectively with a polysomnography with multi-sleep latency test and with the pediatric Quality of Life questionnaire, performed before and 6 months after surgery. A decrease of apnea/hypopnea index values has been detected between pre- and post-surgery (t=2.64, P=0.005), as well as oxygen desaturation index values (t=5.51, P=0.005), multi-sleep latency test (t=4.54, P=0.01), and of the values of pediatric Quality of Life questionnaire. No correlation has been detected between body mass index and apnea/hypopnea index, oxygen desaturation index and multi-sleep latency test values pre- and post-adenotonsillectomy. A correlation has been found between multi-sleep latency test and oxygen desaturation index values post-surgery (P=0.04). No post-operative complications were observed. Our data underline the efficacy of surgery in Prader-Willi patients with adenotonsillar hypertrophy in order to improve their quality of life.
Ureteral rupture after blunt abdominal trauma in a child with unknown horseshoe kidney
Authors: Mariotto Arianna , Zampieri Nicola , Cecchetto Mariangela , Camoglio Francesco Saverio
Published: September 2015

More than 90% of renal injuries in children result from blunt abdominal trauma. A 10-year-old female had a blunt abdominal trauma with macro-hematuria. The computed tomography scan revealed the presence of a horseshoe kidney and a 3rd grade renal lesion and contrast leakage from the right ureter. The ureteral rupture was confirmed by cystoscopy and ascendant pyelography and than a double J-stent was implanted. The stent was removed one month later. Non-surgical management has become the standard of care for both ureteral and renal lesions in children. Non-surgical treatment is a safe procedure for renal trauma with ureteral rupture in children.
Changing things around: Dramatic aspect in the Pericope Adulterae (Jn 7:53–8:11)
Authors: Van Staden Piet
Published: September 2015

In this article the transactional model of narrative as expounded by Louise Rosenblatt, supported by an analysis in terms of dramatic aspect, is employed to show how the interpolated scene in John 7:53–8:11 (known as the Pericope Adulterae and hereafter referred to as PA) functions as a pivot of power in the gospel. The content of the scene, as well as its placement within the gospel, serves to promote an aesthetic reading that focusses attention on the experience during the reading event. Awareness of sensations, images, feelings and ideas from past experiences, as well as the sounds and rhythms of the words become important. The reader responds to the aesthetic transaction, the various elements of total experience, rather than simply to the text, during and after the reading event.
Wealth, poverty and mutual care: Towards a reconstructive reading of the book of Job
Authors: Venter Philip P.
Published: September 2015

Perceived disruptions between the poetic and prose genres in the book of Job often lead to deconstruction or deconstructive readings of the text. In this article the broad outlines of a possible reconstructive reading are sketched. This revolves around research results regarding the principles inherent to God�s address to Job in chapters 38�41. The transformation of Job is shown by comparing his earlier prosperity in the prologue, which he lost, and the description of his newly found prosperity in the epilogue. It will be argued that the epilogue is an essential part of the whole book, and serves to illustrate that Job was indeed transformed by the principles unveiled by the Voice from within the storm. This transformation led to a life which is characterised by its fullness and satisfactory conclusion.
Investigating a Non-Mesh Mosquito Net Among Outdoor Sleeping Nomadic Communities in Kenya
Authors: Gore-Langton Georgia R. , Mungai James , Alenwi Nfornuh , Abagira Abdullahi , Bicknell Owen M. , Harrison Rebecca E. , Hassan Farah Amin , Munga Stephen , Eves Katie , Juma Elizabeth , Allan Richard
Published: September 2015

Rising reports of exophagic malaria vectors make even more pressing the need for alternatives to traditional, mesh, long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) designed for indoor sleeping and often inadequate in the protection of outdoor-sleeping populations. This study tests and evaluates the retention, utilization, and durability of novel, non-mesh nets designed for outdoor use. Longitudinal, cross-sectional surveys were conducted, the physical condition of nets was assessed, and bio-efficacy and insecticide content were tested. At 22 months, retention was 98.0%; 97.1% of nets fell within the World Health Organization (WHO) category of being in “good” condition; none were in the “torn” category. At 18 months post-distribution, 100% of nets had at least WHO Pesticide Evaluation Scheme (WHOPES)-acceptable levels of insecticide, this proportion was 66.7% at 22 months. This novel mosquito net has the potential to provide a durable and context-specific tool to prevent malaria among traditionally hard-to-protect and highly vulnerable populations.
Cost of Dengue Vector Control Activities in Malaysia
Authors: Packierisamy P. Raviwharmman , Ng Chiu-Wan , Dahlui Maznah , Inbaraj Jonathan , Balan Venugopalan K. , Halasa Yara A. , Shepard Donald S.
Published: September 2015

Dengue fever, an arbovirus disease transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, has recently spread rapidly, especially in the tropical countries of the Americas and Asia-Pacific regions. It is endemic in Malaysia, with an annual average of 37,937 reported dengue cases from 2007 to 2012. This study measured the overall economic impact of dengue in Malaysia, and estimated the costs of dengue prevention. In 2010, Malaysia spent US$73.5 million or 0.03% of the country's GDP on its National Dengue Vector Control Program. This spending represented US$1,591 per reported dengue case and US$2.68 per capita population. Most (92.2%) of this spending occurred in districts, primarily for fogging. A previous paper estimated the annual cost of dengue illness in the country at US$102.2 million. Thus, the inclusion of preventive activities increases the substantial estimated cost of dengue to US$175.7 million, or 72% above illness costs alone. If innovative technologies for dengue vector control prove efficacious, and a dengue vaccine was introduced, substantial existing spending could be rechanneled to fund them.
Rapid Tests and the Diagnosis of Visceral Leishmaniasis and Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Coinfection
Authors: Barbosa Júnior Walter Lins , Ramos de Araújo Paulo Sérgio , Dias de Andrade Luiz , Aguiar dos Santos Ana Maria , Lopes da Silva Maria Almerice , Dantas-Torres Filipe , Medeiros Zulma
Published: September 2015

After the emergence of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), the number of visceral leishmaniasis (VL)–HIV/AIDS coinfections has increased worldwide. Herein, we assessed the usefulness of an rK39-based immunochromatographic test (rK39 ICT) (DiaMed-IT LEISH®; DiaMed AG, Cressier-sur-Morat, Switzerland) and a latex agglutination test (KAtex; Kalon Biological, Guildford, United Kingdom) for urinary antigen detection to diagnose VL in 15 HIV/AIDS patients from northeastern Brazil. VL diagnosis was based on clinical findings, cytology, serology, parasite DNA, and/or urinary antigen detection. VL was confirmed in seven out of 15 HIV/AIDS patients. Only three patients were positive in bone marrow cytology, three patients were conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) positive, while six were real-time PCR positive. All patients were direct agglutination test (DAT) (Royal Tropical Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands) positive; of these, four were positive by rK39 ICT and five by KAtex. Large-scale studies are needed to validate the use of the KAtex in the national public health laboratory network in Brazil, aiming at improving the diagnosis of VL in HIV/AIDS patients in this country.
Deforestation and Malaria on the Amazon Frontier: Larval Clustering of Anopheles darlingi (Diptera: Culicidae) Determines Focal Distribution of Malaria
Authors: Barros Fábio S. M. , Honório Nildimar A.
Published: September 2015

We performed bimonthly mosquito larval collections during 1 year, in an agricultural settlement in the Brazilian Amazon, as well as an analysis of malaria incidence in neighboring houses. Water collections located at forest fringes were more commonly positive for Anopheles darlingi larvae and Kulldorff spatial analysis pinpointed significant larval clusters at sites directly beneath forest fringes, which were called larval “hotspots.” Remote sensing identified 43 “potential” hotspots. Sampling of these areas revealed an 85.7% positivity rate for A. darlingi larvae. Malaria was correlated with shorter distances to potential hotpots and settlers living within 400 m of potential hotspots had a 2.60 higher risk of malaria. Recently arrived settlers, usually located closer to the tip of the triangularly shaped deforestation imprints of side roads, may be more exposed to malaria due to their proximity to the forest fringe. As deforestation progresses, transmission decreases. However, forest remnants inside deforested areas conferred an increased risk of malaria. We propose a model for explaining frontier malaria in the Amazon: because of adaptation of A. darlingi to the forest fringe ecotone, humans are exposed to an increased transmission risk when in proximity to these areas, especially when small dams are created on naturally running water collections.
An Unusual Cutaneous Manifestation in a Patient with Murine Typhus
Authors: Blanton Lucas S. , Lea Alfred S. , Kelly Brent C. , Walker David H.
Published: September 2015

Murine typhus is a flea-borne febrile illness caused by Rickettsia typhi. Although often accompanied by rash, an inoculation lesion has not been observed as it is with many tick- and mite-transmitted rickettsioses. We describe a patient with murine typhus and an unusual cutaneous manifestation at the site of rickettsial inoculation.
Effectiveness of Large-Scale Chagas Disease Vector Control Program in Nicaragua by Residual Insecticide Spraying Against Triatoma dimidiata
Authors: Yoshioka Kota , Nakamura Jiro , Pérez Byron , Tercero Doribel , Pérez Lenin , Tabaru Yuichiro
Published: September 2015

Chagas disease is one of the most serious health problems in Latin America. Because the disease is transmitted mainly by triatomine vectors, a three-phase vector control strategy was used to reduce its vector-borne transmission. In Nicaragua, we implemented an indoor insecticide spraying program in five northern departments to reduce house infestation by Triatoma dimidiata. The spraying program was performed in two rounds. After each round, we conducted entomological evaluation to compare the vector infestation level before and after spraying. A total of 66,200 and 44,683 houses were sprayed in the first and second spraying rounds, respectively. The entomological evaluation showed that the proportion of houses infested by T. dimidiata was reduced from 17.0% to 3.0% after the first spraying, which was statistically significant (P < 0.0001). However, the second spraying round did not demonstrate clear effectiveness. Space–time analysis revealed that reinfestation of T. dimidiata is more likely to occur in clusters where the pre-spray infestation level is high. Here we discuss how large-scale insecticide spraying is neither effective nor affordable when T. dimidiata is widely distributed at low infestation levels. Further challenges involve research on T. dimidiata reinfestation, diversification of vector control strategies, and implementation of sustainable vector surveillance.
Drug Review: Fosfomycin—A Rarely used but more Practical Approach for Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Yadav Sangeeta , Singh Omkar
Published: September 2015

In this current era of resistance, treating urinary tract infections (UTIs) on outpatient department (OPD) basis has become cumbersome. Resistance has dramatically increased for cotrimoxazole, levofloxacin, ciprofloxacin and nitrofurantoin in past few decades. Intravenous drugs increase the cost of treatment and patient may need hospitalization. We searched and analyzed the literature and found fosfomycin to be better alternative in resistant UTI as resistance to this drug is low and is cost-effective in comparison to available intravenous drugs.

How to cite this article

Agrawal P, Garg R, Yadav S, Singh O. Drug Review: Fosfomycin—A Rarely used but more Practical Approach for Urinary Tract Infections. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2015;7(2):68-70.
Morcellation: Its Origin and Where It is heading to?
Authors: Ghoshal Soma , Mittal Anushree , Manjula BC
Published: September 2015

A morcellator is a device used to cut, grind and extract tissue. This minimally invasive procedure is designed to help patient heal faster while removing the tissue that is causing the problems. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) gave its approval for this device in 1993. Since then, nearly two dozen similar devices have hit the market.

The authors review the available literature in order to put into perspective current status and position of morcellation in clinical practice. The evolution of morcellation over the course of years, its advantages and recent controversies and various other methods of specimen retrieval their advantages and disadvantages are discussed. Morcellation being one of the techniques, has been in the news with FDA discouraging the use of these devices as they can lead to spread of cancerous tissue or they can lead to dissemination of undiagnosed cancer.

We also discussed the recent innovations in morcellators and its techniques and through this topical discussion try to come to some conclusion.

How to cite this article

Manjula BC, Manchanda R, Mittal A, Ghoshal S. Morcellation: Its Origin and Where It is heading to?. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2015;7(2):77-82.
Spontaneous Heterotopic Pregnancy
Authors: Bajwa Jasreet Kaur , Mann Ankita , Rudra Samar
Published: September 2015

The prevalence of heterotopic pregnancy is increasing worldwide, due to the widespread practice of assisted reproductive technology and the availability of more precise diagnostic techniques. However, spontaneous heterotopic pregnancy is a rare clinical condition where it occurs in a natural conception. It has a historic incidence of 1 in 30,000. We report a case of 30 years old women, gravida 6, para 3, abortion 2 without having any risk factor for ectopic pregnancy who conceived spontaneously and was diagnosed ultrasonographically as heterotopic pregnancy, i.e. with concomitant right tubal pregnancy and intrauterine gestation. The patient presented with pain in lower abdomen and was managed laparoscopically. Due to its rarity, a high degree of clinical suspicion is required to make a diagnosis of heterotopic pregnancy. Thus, we infer that the diagnosis of heterotopic pregnancy should be suspected in all women in the reproductive age, reporting with early pregnancy.

How to cite this article

Bajwa JK, Mann A, Rudra S, Singh S. Spontaneous Heterotopic Pregnancy. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2015;7(2):83-85.
Medical Management of Placenta Accreta with Methotrexate: Review of Two Cases
Authors: Singh Yoginder , Raghav Vinod , Kapur A
Published: September 2015

Placenta accreta is a potentially life-threatening obstetric condition that requires a multidisciplinary approach for its management. The incidence of placenta accreta has increased over the years. Women at greatest risk of placenta accreta are those who have myometrial damage caused by a previous cesarean delivery. Although recognized obstetric risk factors allow the identification of most cases during the antepartum period, the diagnosis is occasionally discovered at the time of delivery when there is difficulty in delivery of placenta. In general, the recommended management of suspected placenta accreta is planned preterm cesarean hysterectomy with the placenta left in situ because attempts at removal of the placenta are associated with significant hemorrhagic morbidity. Recently, adjuvant therapy with methotrexate has been used in the treatment of morbidly adherent placenta in patients desiring further child bearing. We present two cases where medical management was successful.

How to cite this article

Singh Y, Raghav V, Kapur A. Medical Management of Placenta Accreta with Methotrexate: Review of Two Cases. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2015;7(2):86-88.
Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura in Pregnancy
Authors: Rajeswari KS , Sivasundari M , Sithara D
Published: September 2015

Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a diagnosis of exclusion. It is an autoimmune disorder caused by development of IgG autoantibodies, directed against a number of platelet glycoproteins. A 26 years, primigravida, booked from 30 weeks of gestation, admitted at Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Hospital at 36 weeks of gestation, with gestational hypertension and severe thrombocytopenia with a platelet count of 45,000/mm3. She was treated with intravenous steroids during her antenatal period for thrombocytopenia. She delivered a healthy baby girl of weight 2.4 kg by cesarean section and was breastfed. Intraoperatively, platelet transfusion was given. Postoperatively, she was on methyl prednisolone following which a good increment in the platelet count was noticed and then discharged. The aim is to clarify when thrombocytopenia in pregnancy is clinically important, to provide guidance regarding diagnosis, management options and information about potential risks to the mother and the fetus along with the review of relevant literatures.

How to cite this article

Sithara D, Rajeswari KS, Sivasundari M. Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura in Pregnancy. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2015;7(2):95-96.
Role of Anti-Müllerian Hormone in Gynecology: A Review of Literature
Authors: Kumar Naina , Singh Amit Kant
Published: September 2015

Anti-müllerian hormone (AMH) or Müllerian inhibiting substance (MIS), is a dimeric protein part of the transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta subfamily. It plays two important roles in follicle genesis. First, it delays entrance of primordial follicle into pool of follicles in growth and secondly, it decreases the sensitivity of ovarian follicle toward follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). The ovary-specific expression pattern in granulosa cells of growing non-selected follicles makes AMH an ideal marker for size of the ovarian follicle pool. This review summarizes recent literature concerning AMH and its role in various gynecological conditions.

Methods

The literature regarding AMH was searched from various English language journals and published peer-reviewed articles on Pubmed, MEDLINE and Google Scholar till 2014.

How to cite this article

Kumar N, Singh AK. Role of Antimüllerian Hormone in Gynecology: A Review of Literature. Int J Infertil Fetal Med 2015;6(2):51-61.