bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multivariate analysis of the sediment quality of a tropical coastal lake system
Authors: Sheela A. M. , Letha J. , Joseph S. , Joseph J. , Thomas J.
Published: December 2014

Accurate knowledge of sediment quality is essential because it affects the magnitude and trends of water quality constituents. There are only a few analyses of sediment quality characteristics using multivariate analysis tools. This study utilizes hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), factor analysis (FA) and multiple regression analysis (MRA) to demonstrate the usefulness of these techniques to analyse sediment quality for Akkulam–Veli Lake, a tropical coastal lake system in Kerala, India. The variation of sediment quality patterns during the premonsoon (PRM), monsoon (MON) and postmonsoon (POM) periods were assessed with cluster analysis. Factor analysis was used to identify prominent factors influencing sediment quality, while the factors influencing heavy metal partitioning in the sediment and overlying water were identified using multiple regression analysis. The study results indicated the sediment in the upstream portion of the lake was polluted during PRM, with the prominent factors being the ‘heavy metal factor’ and the ‘organic pollution factor’, followed by the ‘phosphorus pollution factor’ and the ‘cadmium pollution factor’. The ‘heavy metal factor’ and the ‘organic pollution factor’ are the prominent factors during MON, whereas the ‘heavy metal factor’, ‘organic pollution factor’ and ‘salinity factor’ were prominent POM factors. The salinity of the overlying water above the sediments plays an important role during PRM and POM, whereas the dissolved oxygen content was important during MON.
Sensitivity of water quality indicators in a large tropical reservoir to selected climate and land‐use changes
Authors: Williams Gustavious P. , Obregon Oliver , Nelson E. James , Miller Woodruff , Borup M. Brett , Buahin Caleb
Published: December 2014

This study compared the sensitivity of water quality in tropical Aguamilpa Reservoir, as represented by normalized algae mass and dissolved oxygen, to selected projected changes from global climate change and development. The sensitivity of reservoir stratification as an indicator of reservoir sensitivity also was analysed. Model simulations indicated the reservoir was more sensitive to changes during the warm‐dry season than at other times. Both indexes (normalized algal mass and dissolved oxygen mass) were more sensitive to changes in air temperature (climate change) and nitrogen loading (development) than to changes in flow. The sensitivity to air temperature was similar to, but generally less than, the sensitivity to nutrient inflow. At the bounding values for change (3 °C for temperature; 50% increase in nitrogen loading), the algae mass sensitivities were 0.15 mg L−1 per 3 °C and 0.2 mg L−1 per 50% nitrogen load increase, and the dissolved oxygen mass sensitivities were 0.7 mg L−1 per 3 °C and 2.0 mg L−1 per 50% load increase. Changes in air temperature and nitrogen loadings affect the reservoir in different ways, air temperature mostly changing the timing of the algal growth with little change in peak values, while nutrient loadings change the peak values with little change in the timing. While the sensitivities are similar, the total algal mass change is significantly larger for nitrogen loading, compared to air temperature changes. These results imply global climate change effects can be partially mitigated by implementing management measures in the surrounding watersheds to minimize nutrient inflows, especially nitrogen in the case of Aguamilpa Reservoir.
Identification of the amino acids essential for LytSR‐mediated signal transduction in Staphylococcus aureus and their roles in biofilm‐specific gene expression
Authors: Lehman McKenzie K. , Bose Jeffrey L. , Sharma‐Kuinkel Batu K. , Moormeier Derek E. , Endres Jennifer L. , Sadykov Marat R. , Biswas Indranil , Bayles Kenneth W.
Published: December 2014

Recent studies have demonstrated that expression of the Staphylococcus aureus lrgAB operon is specifically localized within tower structures during biofilm development. To gain a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying this spatial control of lrgAB expression, we carried out a detailed analysis of the LytSR two‐component system. Specifically, a conserved aspartic acid (Asp53) of the LytR response regulator was shown to be the target of phosphorylation, which resulted in enhanced binding to the lrgAB promoter and activation of transcription. In addition, we identified His390 of the LytS histidine kinase as the site of autophosphorylation and Asn394 as a critical amino acid involved in phosphatase activity. Interestingly, LytS‐independent activation of LytR was observed during planktonic growth, with acetyl phosphate acting as a phosphodonor to LytR. In contrast, mutations disrupting the function of LytS prevented tower‐specific lrgAB expression, providing insight into the physiologic environment within these structures. In addition, overactivation of LytR led to increased lrgAB promoter activity during planktonic and biofilm growth and a change in biofilm morphology. Overall, the results of this study are the first to define the LytSR signal transduction pathway, as well as determine the metabolic context within biofilm tower structures that triggers these signaling events.
Effects of plant litter diversity, species, origin and traits on larval toad performance
Authors: Martin Laura J. , Rainford Shauna‐kay , Blossey Bernd
Published: December 2014

Decreased plant diversity is expected to reduce ecosystem function. Although many studies have examined effects of plant species on trophic interactions, information regarding effects of native or non‐native plant diversity on performance of individuals of higher trophic levels is limited. We reared larval American toadAnaxyrus americanustadpoles in outdoor mesocosms containing litter of 1, 3, 6 or 12 plant species drawn randomly from a pool of 24 (15 native, 9 nonnative) species. Tadpole performance varied significantly among litter types in single litter treatments and pH and litter C:N were significant predictors of tadpole performance. Metamorphs were larger in mixtures than expected based on performance in single species treatments, suggesting a non‐additive effect of diversity. Litter diversity did not affect probability of survival or probability of metamorphosis. Plant origin (native or non‐native) had no significant effect on amphibian performance. Our study suggests some benefits to tadpole development at low levels of plant diversity, but questions assumed benefits of increased plant diversity and assumed detrimental effects of nonnative plant species for a common larval amphibian. Presence of specific plant species with strong negative effects on tadpole performance may outweigh diversity benefits in brown food webs.
THE IMPACT OF NETWORK MANAGEMENT AND COMPLEXITY ON MULTI‐LEVEL COORDINATION
Authors: HOVIK SISSEL , HANSSEN GRO SANDKJAER
Published: December 2014

In order to meet the challenges of an increasingly fragmented public sector and severe wicked problems, network structures have become an important part of contemporary public administration. Thus, managing networks is a central concern for public managers. The article focuses on networks being established in Norway in accordance with the EU Water Framework Directive. The mandatory networks consist of actors representing different levels of government and several policy sectors, having highly asymmetric interests, interdependencies, and power relations. Based on comprehensive survey material, the article illuminates how the important role of network management on multi‐level coordination is conditioned by complexity. Rather surprisingly, the more complex networks score better on coordination, and the most promising management strategy seems to depend upon institutional complexity. Direct and connecting strategies seem to be required in the most complex settings, while in less complex settings, indirect facilitative strategies are more effective to achieve coordination.
The pressure drop across the endotracheal tube in mechanically ventilated pediatric patients
Authors: Spaeth Johannes , Steinmann Daniel , Kaltofen Heike , Guttmann Josef , Schumann Stefan
Published: December 2014

Background

During mechanical ventilation, the airway pressure (Paw) is usually monitored. However, Paw comprises the endotracheal tube (ETT)‐related pressure drop (∆PETT) and thus does not reflect the pressure in the patients’ lungs. Therefore, monitoring of mechanical ventilation should be based on the tracheal pressure (Ptrach). We systematically investigated potential factors influencing ∆PETT in pediatric ETTs.

Methods

In this study, the flow‐dependent pressure drop across pediatric ETTs from four manufacturers [2.0–4.5 mm inner diameter (ID)] was estimated in a physical model of the upper airways. Additionally, ∆PETT was examined with the ETTs shortened to 75% of their original length and at different curvatures. In nine healthy mechanically ventilated children (aged between 9 days and 29 months), Ptrach was compared to Paw.

Results

∆PETT was nonlinearly flow dependent. Low IDs corresponded to high ∆PETT. Differences between ETTs from different manufacturers were identified. Shortening of the ETTs’ length by 25% reduced ∆PETT on average by 14% of the value at original length. Ventilation frequency and tube curvature did not influence ∆PETT to a relevant extent. In the pediatric patients, the root mean square deviation between Paw and Ptrach was 2.3 cm H2O.

Conclusion

Paw and Ptrach differ considerably (by ∆PETT) during mechanical ventilation of pediatric patients. The ETTs’ ID, tube length, and manufacturer type are significant factors for ∆PETT and should be taken into account when Paw is valuated. For this purpose, Ptrach can be continuously calculated with good precision by means of the Rohrer approximation.
Enhancement of Analgesic Effect by Combination of Non‐Noxious Stimulation and Noxious Stimulation in Humans
Authors: Fujii‐Abe Keiko , Umino Masahiro , Fukayama Haruhisa , Kawahara Hiroshi
Published: December 2014

The aim of the this study was to investigate the combined effects of heterosegmental non‐noxious and noxious stimulation on electrically induced tooth pain.

The late component of somatosensory‐evoked potentials (SEP), induced by electrical tooth stimulation and pain intensity, were examined under electrical stimulation to forearms. Noxious, non‐noxious, and combined non‐noxious and noxious electrical stimulation were applied to median nerves on the forearms. Four experimental sessions (ie, control session, combined non‐noxious and noxious stimulation session, non‐noxious stimulation session, and noxious stimulation session were performed for each subject at each 10‐minute interval for 30 minutes.

The amplitudes of the SEP and VAS scores in the combined stimulation session decreased significantly compared with those in the control session and the reduction rates were 51.1% (13.4 μV) and 41.0% (23.5 mm), respectively.

These results show that the combined stimulation has a more potent analgesic effect than that of either the non‐noxious or the noxious stimulation. It is suggested that a potent analgesia was produced by an activated central mechanism, including endogenous opioid and descending pain inhibitory systems due to combined non‐noxious and noxious stimulation.
The dominance behavioural system: A multidimensional transdiagnostic approach
Authors: Tang‐Smith Eliot , Johnson Sheri L. , Chen Stephen
Published: December 2014

Objectives

The dominance behavioural system (DBS) is multi‐faceted, and various aspects of this system have links with a range of psychopathologies. Different scales have been used across psychopathologies though, and no single measure captures the core dimensions of the DBS. Our goal was to assess the importance of multiple DBS dimensions across psychopathologies.

Methods

Undergraduates (N = 612) completed a broad set of dominance items (many from pre‐existing measures) and measures of lifetime depression, anxiety, and manic symptoms.

Results

Factor analysis suggested six distinct DBS factors: Authentic Pride, Hubristic Pride, Cooperation, Power/Influence, Discomfort with Leadership, and Ruthless Ambition. Depressive and anxious symptoms related to notably similar DBS profiles, characterized by lower authentic pride, lower perceived power, and greater willingness to endorse hubris. In contrast, hypomanic tendencies related to heightened pride, and an emphasis on the pursuit of power despite interpersonal costs.

Conclusions

With a multi‐faceted approach, the DBS appears to be relevant for understanding multiple forms of psychopathology. Although limited by the reliance on self‐report questionnaires, this is the first transdiagnostic study to consider these multiple facets of the DBS.

Practitioner points

The dominance system involves multiple separable dimensions.

Manic tendencies appear tied to experiencing a heightened sense of pride and being willing to use more aggressive behavioural strategies to pursue dominance.

Anxious and depressive tendencies appear particularly tied to low levels of subjective power, and more willingness to describe oneself as having hubris.

Pride, the subjective sense of achieving power, and behavioural approaches to achieving power appear to be important dimensions of the dominance system for understanding psychopathology.
Long‐Term Efficacy of Oxybutynin for Palmar and Plantar Hyperhidrosis in Children Younger than 14 Years
Authors: Wolosker Nelson , Teivelis Marcelo P. , Krutman Mariana , de Paula Rafael P. , Schvartsman Claudio , Kauffman Paulo , de Campos José R. M. , Puech‐Leão Pedro
Published: December 2014

Oxybutynin for treating hyperhidrosis in children has been evaluated only in short‐term studies. We aimed to investigate the long‐term effects of oxybutynin in treating children with palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis who had not undergone surgery and who were monitored for at least 6 months (median 19.6 mos). A cohort of 97 patients was evaluated retrospectively, with particular attention to 59 children (ages 4–14 yrs) who were treated for longer than 6 months. Their quality of life (QOL) was evaluated using a validated clinical questionnaire before and after 6 weeks of pharmacologic therapy. A self‐assessment of hyperhidrosis was performed after 6 weeks and after the last consultation. By their final office visit, more than 91% of the children with hyperhidrosis treated with oxybutynin experienced moderate or great improvement in their level of sweating and 94.9% experienced improvement in QOL. More than 90% of children reported improvement of hyperhidrosis at other sites. Dry mouth was the most common side effect. Oxybutynin appears to be an effective treatment option for children with hyperhidrosis, and positive results are maintained over the long term (median 19.6 mos).
Subcutaneous Fat Necrosis in a Newborn after Brief Therapeutic Hypothermia: Ultrasonographic Examination
Authors: Tognetti Linda , Filippou Georgios , Bertrando Sara , Picerno Valentina , Buonocore Giuseppe , Frediani Bruno , Fimiani Michele , Rubegni Pietro
Published: December 2014

A 7‐day‐old infant developed erythematous indurated plaques on the back, left shoulder, and arm a few days after therapeutic hypothermia. Ultrasonographic study along with Doppler blood flow analysis of lesional skin areas revealed flogistic fat involvement and calcifications. On the basis of clinical appearance, patient history, and ultrasonographic study, a diagnosis of subcutaneous fat necrosis of the newborn was established.
Comparison of Gestational Weight Gain z‐Scores and Traditional Weight Gain Measures in Relation to Perinatal Outcomes
Authors: Bodnar Lisa M. , Hutcheon Jennifer A. , Parisi Sara M. , Pugh Sarah J. , Abrams Barbara
Published: December 2014

Background

Conventional measures of gestational weight gain (GWG) are correlated with pregnancy duration, and may induce bias to studies of GWG and perinatal outcomes. A maternal weight‐gain‐for‐gestational‐age z‐score chart is a new tool that allows total GWG to be classified as a standardised z‐score that is independent of gestational duration. Our objective was to compare associations with perinatal outcomes when GWG was assessed using gestational age‐standardised z‐scores and conventional GWG measures.

Methods

We studied normal‐weight (n = 522 120) and overweight (n = 237 923) women who delivered liveborn, singleton infants in Pennsylvania, 2003–11. GWG was expressed using gestational age‐standardised z‐scores and three traditional measures: total GWG (kg), rate of GWG (kg per week of gestation), and the GWG adequacy ratio (observed GWG/GWG recommended by the Institute of Medicine). Log‐binomial regression models were used to assess associations between GWG and preterm birth, and small‐ and large‐for‐gestational‐age births, while adjusting for race/ethnicity, education, smoking, and other confounders.

Results

The association between GWG z‐score and preterm birth was approximately U‐shaped. The risk of preterm birth associated with weight gain <10th percentile of each measure was substantially overestimated when GWG was classified using total kilogram and was moderately overestimated using rate of GWG or GWG adequacy ratio. All GWG measures had similar associations with small‐ or large‐for‐gestational‐age birth.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that studies of gestational age‐dependent outcomes misspecify associations if total GWG, rate of GWG, or GWG adequacy ratio are used. The potential for gestational age‐related bias can be eliminated by using z‐score charts to classify total GWG.
Nitrosatable Drug Exposure during Pregnancy and Preterm and Small‐for‐Gestational‐Age Births
Authors: Vuong Ann M. , Shinde Mayura U. , Brender Jean D. , Shipp Eva M. , Huber John C , Zheng Qi , McDonald Thomas J. , Sharkey Joseph R. , Hoyt Adrienne T. , Werler Martha M. , Kelley Katherine E. , Langlois Peter H. , Canfield Mark A. ,   National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Published: December 2014

Background

Nitrosatable drugs react with nitrite in the stomach to form N‐nitroso compounds, observed in animal models to result in adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as birth defects and reduced fetal weight. Previous studies examining prenatal exposure to medications classified as nitrosatable have reported an increased risk of preterm births (PTBs) and small‐for‐gestational‐age (SGA) infants.

Methods

Using data from mothers (controls) of babies without major birth defects from the National Birth Defects Prevention Study, prenatal nitrosatable drug usage by trimester and month of gestation was examined in relation to PTBs and SGA infants.

Results

Positive associations were observed with nitrosatable drug use and PTBs, with the strongest relationship with second trimester exposure (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.37, [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.10, 1.70]). Of the nitrosatable functional groups, secondary amines were the most notable, with a higher association among women with second (aHR 1.37, [95% CI 1.05, 1.79]) and third (aHR 1.34, [95% CI 1.02, 1.76]) trimester exposure compared with women with no prenatal nitrosatable drug use. Among SGA infants, a borderline association was noted with amide exposure during the third trimester (adjusted odds ratio 1.43 [95% confidence interval [CI] 1.00, 2.05]).

Conclusions

Prenatal exposure to nitrosatable drugs during the second and third trimester of pregnancy, particularly secondary amines, might increase the risk of PTBs. However, prenatal exposure to nitrosatable drugs was not associated with SGA infants, with the exception of amide drugs.
Rhamphicarpa fistulosa, a widespread facultative hemi‐parasitic weed, threatening rice production in Africa
Authors: Rodenburg J , Morawetz J J , Bastiaans L
Published: December 2014

Rhamphicarpa fistulosa is a facultative hemi‐parasitic plant of the Orobanchaceae family, adapted to wet soils. Apart from tropical Australia, it is only found in sub‐Saharan Africa, where it is considered a minor weed in cereal crops such as rice. Due to this status, the species has received only sporadic attention. Recent field observations and encounters with rice farmers in several African countries showed that R. fistulosa is, however, a more serious and increasing production constraint than previously thought. Results from a systematic literature review and a global herbarium study support this. The species has a broad distribution over Africa (at least 35 countries from Madagascar to Senegal and from Sudan to South Africa) and a wide range in altitude (0–2150 m a.s.l.) and environment (waterlogged swamps to moist free‐draining uplands). Rhamphicarpa fistulosa is relatively independent and persistent because of the presumably wide host range, the facultative nature of its parasitism and its prolific seed (estimated 100 000 seeds m−2 under moderate infestation levels). Finally, R. fistulosa causes severe yield losses (average 60%) and high regional annual economic losses (estimated US $175 million), while effective control options are scant and awareness of the species among important R&D stakeholders is almost absent. An integrated approach is advocated to assist the rice sector to reduce current R. fistulosa‐inflicted losses and to prevent further spread of the species into new areas.
Beyond Disease, How Biomedical Engineering Can Improve Global Health
Authors: LeDuc Philip , Agaba Morris , Cheng Chao-Min , Gracio Jose , Guzman Amador , Middelberg Anton
Published: December 2014

Biomedical engineers have the tools to address some of the world’s most challenging nondisease–focused problems.
Protein-releasing polymeric scaffolds induce fibrochondrocytic differentiation of endogenous cells for knee meniscus regeneration in sheep
Authors: Lee Chang H. , Rodeo Scott A. , Fortier Lisa Ann , Lu Chuanyong , Erisken Cevat , Mao Jeremy J.
Published: December 2014

Sheep knee meniscus was regenerated by spatiotemporal delivery of two recombinant human proteins in 3D-printed bioresorbable scaffold.
Visnagin protects against doxorubicin-induced cardiomyopathy through modulation of mitochondrial malate dehydrogenase
Authors: Liu Yan , Asnani Aarti , Zou Lin , Bentley Victoria L. , Yu Min , Wang You , Dellaire Graham , Sarkar Kumar S. , Dai Matthew , Chen Howard H. , Sosnovik David E. , Shin Jordan T. , Haber Daniel A. , Berman Jason N. , Chao Wei , Peterson Randall T.
Published: December 2014

A drug that targets the mitochondrial enzyme malate dehydrogenase protects against cardiotoxicity from the anticancer drug doxorubicin.
White matter changes linked to visual recovery after nerve decompression
Authors: Paul David A. , Gaffin-Cahn Elon , Hintz Eric B. , Adeclat Giscard J. , Zhu Tong , Williams Zoë R. , Vates G. Edward , Mahon Bradford Z.
Published: December 2014

Rapid remyelination is a major contributor to the normalization of vision after surgical removal of pituitary tumors in human patients and decompression of the optic chiasm.
Ribosomal Elongation Factor 4 Promotes Cell Death Associated with Lethal Stress
Authors: Li Liping , Hong Yuzhi , Luan Gan , Mosel Michael , Malik Muhammad , Drlica Karl , Zhao Xilin
Published: December 2014

Ribosomal elongation factor 4 (EF4) is highly conserved among bacteria, mitochondria, and chloroplasts. However, the EF4-encoding gene,lepA, is nonessential and its deficiency shows no growth or fitness defect. In purified systems, EF4 back-translocates stalled, posttranslational ribosomes for efficient protein synthesis; consequently, EF4 has a protective role during moderate stress. We were surprised to find that EF4 also has a detrimental role during severe stress: deletion oflepAincreasedEscherichia colisurvival following treatment with several antimicrobials. EF4 contributed to stress-mediated lethality through reactive oxygen species (ROS) because (i) the protective effect of a ΔlepAmutation against lethal antimicrobials was eliminated by anaerobic growth or by agents that block hydroxyl radical accumulation and (ii) the ΔlepAmutation decreased ROS levels stimulated by antimicrobial stress. Epistasis experiments showed that EF4 functions in the same genetic pathway as the MazF toxin, a stress response factor implicated in ROS-mediated cell death. The detrimental action of EF4 required transfer-messenger RNA (tmRNA, which tags truncated proteins for degradation and is known to be inhibited by EF4) and the ClpP protease. Inhibition of a protective, tmRNA/ClpP-mediated degradative activity would allow truncated proteins to indirectly perturb the respiratory chain and thereby provide a potential link between EF4 and ROS. The connection among EF4, MazF, tmRNA, and ROS expands a pathway leading from harsh stress to bacterial self-destruction. The destructive aspect of EF4 plus the protective properties described previously make EF4 a bifunctional factor in a stress response that promotes survival or death, depending on the severity of stress.

IMPORTANCETranslation elongation factor 4 (EF4) is one of the most conserved proteins in nature, but it is dispensable. Lack of strong phenotypes for its genetic knockout has made EF4 an enigma. Recent biochemical work has demonstrated that mild stress may stall ribosomes and that EF4 can reposition stalled ribosomes to resume proper translation. Thus, EF4 protects cells from moderate stress. Here we report that EF4 is paradoxically harmful during severe stress, such as that caused by antimicrobial treatment. EF4 acts in a pathway that leads to excessive accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), thereby participating in a bacterial self-destruction that occurs when cells cannot effectively repair stress-mediated damage. Thus, EF4 has two opposing functions—at low-to-moderate levels of stress, the protein is protective by allowing stress-paused translation to resume; at high-levels of stress, EF4 helps bacteria self-destruct. These data support the existence of a bacterial live-or-die response to stress.
BPIFB3 Regulates Autophagy and Coxsackievirus B Replication through a Noncanonical Pathway Independent of the Core Initiation Machinery
Authors: Delorme-Axford Elizabeth , Morosky Stefanie , Bomberger Jennifer , Stolz Donna B. , Jackson William T. , Coyne Carolyn B.
Published: December 2014

Enteroviruses require autophagy to facilitate the formation of autophagosome (AP)-like double-membrane vesicles that provide the scaffolding for RNA replication. Here, we identify bactericidal/permeability-increasing protein (BPI) fold-containing family B, member 3 (BPIFB3) as a gene whose silencing greatly enhances coxsackievirus B (CVB) replication and induces dramatic alterations in the morphology of CVB-induced replication organelles. We show that BPIFB3 is associated with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), and its silencing by RNA interference enhances basal levels of autophagy and promotes increased autophagy during CVB replication. Conversely, overexpression of BPIFB3 inhibits CVB replication, dramatically alters the morphology of LC3B-positive vesicles, and suppresses autophagy in response to rapamaycin. In addition, we found that, whereas silencing of core autophagy components associated with the initiation of APs in control cells suppressed CVB replication, silencing of these same components had no effect on CVB-induced autophagy or viral replication in cells transfected with BPIFB3 small interfering RNA. Based on these results, taken together, this study reports on a previously uncharacterized regulator of enterovirus infection that controls replication through a noncanonical pathway independent from the core autophagy initiation machinery.

IMPORTANCE
Coxsackievirus B (CVB) infections are commonly associated with dilated cardiomyopathy, a condition that accounts for nearly half of all heart transplants annually. During infection, CVB co-opts a cellular pathway, termed autophagy, to provide the membranes necessary for its replication. Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved process by which cells ingest damaged organelles as a means of maintaining cell homeostasis. Here, we report on a novel regulator of autophagy, bactericidal/permeability-increasing protein (BPI) fold-containing family B, member 3 (BPIFB3), whose expression functions to restrict CVB replication by suppressing key steps in the authophagic process. We show that loss of BPIFB3 expression greatly enhances CVB replication while having no effect on replication of poliovirus, a closely related virus. Our results thus identify a novel host cell therapeutic target whose function could be targeted to alter CVB replication.
Salmonella enterica Infection Stimulates Macrophages to Hemophagocytose
Authors: Pilonieta M. Carolina , Moreland Sarah M. , English Christopher N. , Detweiler Corrella S.
Published: December 2014

Hemophagocytes are cells of the monocyte lineage that have engulfed erythrocytes and leukocytes. Hemophagocytes frequently accumulate in patients with severe acute bacterial infections, such as those caused bySalmonella enterica,Brucella abortus, andMycobacterium tuberculosis. The relationship between hemophagocytosis and infection is not well understood. In the murine liver,S. entericaserovar Typhimurium resides within hemophagocytic macrophages containing leukocytes. Here we show thatS. Typhimurium also resides within hemophagocytes containing erythrocytes. In cell culture,S. Typhimurium benefits from residence within hemophagocytes by accessing iron, but why macrophages hemophagocytose is unknown. We show that treatment of macrophages with a cocktail of the proinflammatory cytokine interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulates engulfment of nonsenescent erythrocytes. Exposure of resting or IFN-γ-treated macrophages to live, but not to heat-killed,S. Typhimurium cells also stimulates erythrocyte engulfment. Single-cell analyses show thatS. Typhimurium-infected macrophages are more likely to erythrophagocytose and that infected macrophages engulf more erythrocytes than uninfected macrophages within the same culture well. In addition, macrophages containing erythrocytes harbor more bacteria. However,S. Typhimurium does not promote macrophage engulfment of polystyrene beads, suggesting a role for a ligand on the target cell. Finally, neither of the twoS. Typhimurium type 3 secretion systems, T3SS1 or T3SS2, is fully required for hemophagocytosis. These results indicate that infection of macrophages with liveS. Typhimuriumcells stimulates hemophagocytosis.

IMPORTANCEMacrophages are white blood cells (leukocytes) that engulf and destroy pathogens. Hemophagocytes, a subset of macrophages, are characteristic of severe acute infection in patients with, for instance, typhoid fever, brucellosis, tuberculosis, and leishmaniasis. Each of these diseases has the potential to become chronic. Hemophagocytes (blood-eating cells) engulf and degrade red and white blood cells for unknown reasons. The bacterial pathogenSalmonellaacquires the essential nutrient iron from murine hemophagocytes. We report thatSalmonellastimulates macrophages to engulf blood cells, indicating that cells of this bacterium actively promote the formation of a specialized cellular niche in which they can acquire nutrients, evade killing by the host immune system, and potentially transition to chronic infection.
Widening the Spaces of Selection: Evolution along Sublethal Antimicrobial Gradients
Authors: Baquero Fernando , Coque Teresa M.
Published: December 2014

The work of Gullberg et al. (E. Gullberg, L. M. Albrecht, C. Karlsson, L. Sandegren, D. I. Andersson, mBio 5:e01918-14, 2014) indicates that extremely low concentrations of antibiotics and heavy metals are able to compensate for the cost of harboring a plasmid encoding resistances to these inhibitors. Therefore, the “spaces of selection” for plasmids encoding antibiotic or metal resistance along gradients of antimicrobial agents might be huge, and in wide spaces a high number of bacterial cells are exposed to the selective effects. These spaces are even broader if several inhibitors are simultaneously present. Probably very small inhibitor concentrations in the environment, including in sewage and other water bodies, are sufficient to ensure the maintenance and spread of this kind of multiresistance plasmid.
Novel use of carbon dioxide arteriography in renal artery pseudoaneurysm in patients with poor renal function
Authors: Said Mohammed A , McGuire Barry B , Liu Joceline S , Resnick Scott A , Nadler Robert B
Published: December 2014

Renal artery pseudoaneurysm (RAP) is a rare complication of partial nephrectomy, but is usually effectively managed with renal vessel embolisation. We report a particularly challenging case of a patient with chronic kidney disease (CKD) who developed a RAP following a laparoscopic heminephrectomy and was treated using superselective renal vessel coil embolisation with carbon dioxide (CO2) as the primary contrast agent for arteriographic localisation of the RAP and feeder artery. To the best our knowledge we report the first utilisation of CO2arteriography in the definitive diagnosis and treatment of RAP following heminephrectomy in a patient with severe CKD.
An unusual case of biliary bezoar causing small bowel obstruction in a patient with ampullary diverticulum and stapled gastroplasty
Authors: Ashfaq Awais , Madura James A , Chapital Alyssa B
Published: December 2014

Primary small bowel bezoars constitute 0.44% of small bowel obstructions (SBO). We report a case of a man with a history of gastroplasty who presented with lower abdominal pain. Initial examination revealed leucocytosis and serum lipase. CT of the abdomen/pelvis was consistent with pancreatitis, cholelithiasis and a stable, 3.8 cm, ampullary diverticulum, without obstruction of the pancreatic/common bile duct. Considering this was the patient's first episode of pancreatitis with evidence of cholelithiasis, it seemed prudent that he would benefit from cholecystectomy but not diverticulectomy. Post-cholecystectomy he represented to the hospital with biliary emesis. CT of the abdomen/pelvis revealed postsurgical changes. Owing to non-resolution of the symptoms, 48 h later a small bowel follow-through was obtained that suggested partial SBO. Ultimately, the patient was taken for exploratory laparoscopy and small bowel resection, after a large intramural mass was encountered in the small bowel. Final pathology revealed a 3 cm biliary bezoar causing obstruction and stercoral ulceration.
Cultural epidemiology of pandemic influenza in urban and rural Pune, India: a cross-sectional, mixed-methods study
Authors: Sundaram Neisha , Schaetti Christian , Purohit Vidula , Kudale Abhay , Weiss Mitchell G
Published: December 2014

Objective

To identify and compare sociocultural features of pandemic influenza with reference to illness-related experience, meaning and behaviour in urban and rural areas of India.

Design

Cross-sectional, mixed-methods, cultural epidemiological survey with vignette-based interviews. Semistructured explanatory model interviews were used to study community ideas of the 2009 influenza pandemic. In-depth interviews elaborated respondents’ experience during the pandemic.

Setting

Urban and rural communities, Pune district, western India.

Participants

Survey of urban (n=215) and rural (n=221) residents aged between 18 and 65 years. In-depth interviews of respondents with a history of 2009 pandemic influenza (n=6).

Results

More urban (36.7%) than rural respondents (16.3%, p<0.001) identified the illness in the vignette as ‘swine flu’. Over half (56.7%) believed the illness would be fatal without treatment, but with treatment 96% predicted full recovery. Worry (‘tension’) about the illness was reported as more troubling than somatic symptoms. The most common perceived causes—‘exposure to a dirty environment’ and ‘cough or sneeze of an infected person’–were more prominent in the urban group. Among rural respondents, climatic conditions, drinking contaminated water, tension and cultural ideas on humoral imbalance from heat-producing or cold-producing foods were more prominent. The most widely reported home treatment was herbal remedies; more rural respondents suggested reliance on prayer, and symptom relief was more of a priority for urban respondents. Government health services were preferred in the urban communities, and rural residents relied more than urban residents on private facilities. The important preventive measures emphasised were cleanliness, wholesome lifestyle and vaccines, and more urban respondents reported the use of masks. In-depth interviews indicated treatment delays during the 2009 pandemic, especially among rural patients.

Conclusions

Although the term was well known, better recognition of pandemic influenza cases is needed, especially in rural areas. Improved awareness, access to treatment and timely referrals by private practitioners are also required to reduce treatment delays.
Place of care: from referral to specialist palliative care until death
Authors: O'Leary Mary Jane , O'Brien Alison C , Murphy Marie , Crowley Claire M , Leahy Helen M , McCarthy Jill M , Collins Joan C , O'Brien Tony
Published: December 2014

Background

While there are many poorly standardised studies focusing on place of death, there are limited data on place(s) of care during the final stages of disease.

Aim

This study aims to identify where patients are cared for in the interval from referral to specialist palliative care until death.

Methods

All patients who died while under the care of a specialist palliative care service over a 6-month period were considered.

Results

Of the 507 patients included, 255 (50.3%) were men and 428 (84.4%) had a malignant diagnosis. The mean referral-to-death interval was 70 days (SD 113, Range 1–838). The majority (n=281, 55.4%) received care in a single care setting—hospital (28.4%), home (21.5%), nursing home/community hospital (4.1%), hospice (1.4%)—and had a shorter mean referral-to-death interval. Most patients with more than one care setting spent three-quarters of their time in their normal place of residence. A total of 199 (39.3%) died in hospital, 131 (25.8%) in hospice, 131 (25.8%) at home (25.8%) and 46 (9.1%) in a nursing home/community hospital. Patients referred by a general practitioner (n=80 patients, 15.8%) were more likely to be cared for at home (p<0.001), and die at home (p<0.001).

Conclusions

A significant number of patients received specialist palliative care across multiple care settings. Late referral is associated with a single domain of care. General practitioner involvement supports patient care and death at home. Place of care and ease of transfer between care settings may be better indicators of the quality of care we provide.
Trends in inequalities in premature cancer mortality by educational level in Colombia, 1998–2007
Authors: de Vries Esther , Arroyave Ivan , Pardo Constanza , Wiesner Carolina , Murillo Raul , Forman David , Burdorf Alex , Avendaño Mauricio
Published: December 2014

Background

There is a paucity of studies on socioeconomic inequalities in cancer mortality in developing countries. We examined trends in inequalities in cancer mortality by educational attainment in Colombia during a period of epidemiological transition and rapid expansion of health insurance coverage.

Methods

Population mortality data (1998–2007) were linked to census data to obtain age-standardised cancer mortality rates by educational attainment at ages 25–64 years for stomach, cervical, prostate, lung, colorectal, breast and other cancers. We used Poisson regression to model mortality by educational attainment and estimated the contribution of specific cancers to the slope index of inequality in cancer mortality.

Results

We observed large educational inequalities in cancer mortality, particularly for cancer of the cervix (rate ratio (RR) primary vs tertiary groups=5.75, contributing 51% of cancer inequalities), stomach (RR=2.56 for males, contributing 49% of total cancer inequalities and RR=1.98 for females, contributing 14% to total cancer inequalities) and lung (RR=1.64 for males contributing 17% of total cancer inequalities and 1.32 for females contributing 5% to total cancer inequalities). Total cancer mortality rates declined faster among those with higher education, with the exception of mortality from cervical cancer, which declined more rapidly in the lower educational groups.

Conclusions

There are large socioeconomic inequalities in preventable cancer mortality in Colombia, which underscore the need for intensifying prevention efforts. Reduction of cervical cancer can be achieved through reducing human papilloma virus infection, early detection and improved access to treatment of preneoplastic lesions. Reinforcing antitobacco measures may be particularly important to curb inequalities in cancer mortality.
SOCIODEMOGRAPHIC VARIATIONS IN EXPOSURE TO FAST FOOD RESTAURANTS AND ITS ASSOCIATION WITH FAST FOOD CONSUMPTION AMONG YOUTH
Authors: Mohamed A , McIsaac M , Janssen I
Published: December 2014

Introduction

Canadians eat at fast food restaurants more regularly than in the past. Fast foods are higher in energy, saturated fats, and sodium than most other foods, and the portion sizes are often very large. Thus, excessive fast food consumption contributes to an unhealthy diet and a host of adverse health effects.

Individuals with a low socioeconomic status (SES) and ethnic minorities are at increased risk for excessive fast food consumption. Another determinant of fast food consumption is the density of fast food restaurants in the environment. There is a greater density of fast food restaurants in poorer neighbourhoods and neighbourhoods with larger ethnic minority populations. Disparities may also exist in the extent to which fast food restaurants are associated with fast food consumption. However, this relationship has not been examined in young Canadians.

Objectives

To examine the associations between fast food restaurant density in the home neighbourhood and fast food consumption within youth, and to determine whether this association is modified by SES and ethnicity.

Methods

Data are from the 2009/2010 Canadian Health Behaviour in School-Aged Children survey, which is a nationally representative sample of 26,078 grade 6–10 students. Frequency of fast food consumption, SES, ethnicity, home postal code, and several confounders were assessed by self-report. Density of chain fast food restaurants within 1 km of each participant's home postal code was determined using computerized geographic information systems (GIS). A multilevel logistic regression model will be used to determine the relationship between neighbourhood fast food restaurant density and excessive fast food consumption (>2 times/week). Regression models will test for SES and ethnicity interactions and will control for several confounding variables.

Results and conclusion

To be presented at conference (work in progress).
ATTITUDES REGARDING PHYSICIANS' USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA
Authors: Karnabi P , Deonandan R
Published: December 2014

Introduction

Increasingly, a presence on social media platforms, such as Facebook and Twitter, are the cultural norm. Such activities typically involve the public sharing of personal information and viewpoints. For physicians, however, such public accessibility may affect their relationships with patients and other stakeholders.

Objectives

We sought to determine public expectations of the extent and manner of physicians' presence on social media.

Methods

A questionnaire consisting of 36 questions was created using the SurveyMonkey.com website. The link to the survey was shared widely via social media.

Results

There were 259 respondents, predominantly female (74%), urban (87%) and Canadian (94%). A small proportion (31%) felt that a relationship with their physician on social media would be harmful to their clinical relationship, while 56% reported that it would be neither harmful nor beneficial. The majority (55%) expressed concerns about privacy. Almost a third (29%) would be less inclined to maintain a professional relationship with their physician if their physician expressed a conflicting political view than their own on social media. A substantial proportion (46%) also felt that their family physicians should limit their visibility on social media.

Conclusion

As social media becomes entrenched into our everyday lives, the extent to which the rights of physicians to participate must be weighed against the perceptions of their current and potential patients.
Asymptomatic moderate carotid artery stenosis with intraplaque hemorrhage: onset of new ischemic stroke
Authors: Yamada Kiyofumi , Kawasaki Masanori , Yoshimura Shinichi , Sasaki Yuichi , Nakahara Shigehiro , Sato Yoshikazu
Published: December 2014

Background

The degree of stenosis of carotid arteries is recognized as an important risk factor for ischemic stroke. However, high-grade stenosis does not always cause cerebrovascular events, whereas low- to moderate-grade stenosis may often cause strokes. It has been reported that there is an association between carotid intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH) and new brain ischemic events.

Case presentation

We present three patients with asymptomatic moderate carotid artery stenosis and carotid IPH who underwent both neurological and MRI at baseline and after at least 1 year's follow-up. These patients were admitted to our hospital (after 15–35 months of follow-up) because of neurological deficits. Diffusion-weighted MRI of the brain showed ipsilateral new ischemic lesions due to carotid artery plaques. The patients were treated with carotid artery stenting and discharged uneventfully.

Conclusions

Whether plaques with severe stenosis already had severe stenosis at the onset of events or plaques with moderate stenosis progressed owing to an acute change, such as growth of an IPH, remains unclear, because no carotid imaging was carried out just before the events. This is the first case report which presents neurological symptoms and MRI at both baseline and follow-up in patients with asymptomatic moderate carotid artery stenosis and carotid IPH.
Monosodiuml-glutamate and dietary fat exert opposite effects on the proximal and distal intestinal health in growing pigs
Authors: Feng Zemeng , Li Tiejun , Wu Chunli , Tao Lihua , Blachier Francois , Yin Yulong
Published: December 2014

The Chinese population has undergone rapid transition to a high-fat diet. Furthermore, monosodium l-glutamate (MSG) is widely used as a flavour enhancer in China. Previous studies have reported that high-fat diet modifies intestinal metabolism and physiology. However, little information is available on the effects of oral MSG on intestine, and no study focus on the interaction of dietary fat and MSG for intestinal health. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of MSG and dietary fat on intestinal health in growing pigs, and to try to identify possible interactions between these 2 nutrients for such effects. A total of 32 growing pigs were used and fed with 4 isonitrogenous and isocaloric diets (basal diet, high-fat diet, basal diet with 3% MSG and high fat diet with 3% MSG). Parameters related to reactive oxygen species metabolism, epithelial morphology, pro-inflammation factors and tight junction protein expression and several species of intestinal microbe were measured. Overall, dietary fat and MSG had detrimental effects on several of the physiological and inflammatory parameters measured in the proximal intestine, while exerting beneficial effects on the distal intestine in growing pigs, with generally antagonistic effects. These results may be of particular relevance for nutritional concerns in patients with intestinal diseases.