bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Semidwarf gene sdk has pleiotropic effects on rice (Oryza sativa L.) plant architecture
Authors: Yang XiaoMing , Jiang Ling , Yang Chao , Li Hui , Liu LingLong , Wan JianMin
Published: February 2014

Ideal plant architecture has become a significant objective in high‐yield rice breeding. In this study, a new semidwarf gene in sdk, a spontaneous dwarf mutant of ‘Kasalath’, was characterized and genetically mapped. The mutant has smaller panicles and seeds, reduced awns, and is 6–8 days earlier in heading than ‘Kasalath’. There was no significant difference in number (No.) of seeds and fertile seeds per panicle. Genetic analysis indicated that the dwarf character of sdk is controlled by a recessive gene, semidwarf k (sdk). From a segregating population of about 65 000 individuals, 4987 sdk‐type individuals were sampled. Gene sdk was located in a genomic region of 2622 kb flanked by markers R‐12 and R‐43 in the centromeric region of chromosome 2. The results provide an opportunity for gaining an understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying sdk and opening possibilities for its use in rice breeding programmes.
Reduced daytime intramuscular blood flow in patients with restless legs syndrome/Willis–Ekbom disease
Authors: Oskarsson Eva , Wåhlin‐Larsson Britta , Ulfberg Jan
Published: February 2014

Aim

The aim of this study was to examine possible signs of impairment of the microcirculation in the lower extremities of female patients suffering from primary restless legs syndrome (RLS)/Willis–Ekbom disease.

Methods

This study was performed in eight female patients, mean age 48 years (range 21–65), diagnosed with primary RLS but otherwise healthy. Eight healthy female control subjects, mean age 47 years (range 27–64), were also included in the study. Laser Doppler flowmetry was used to determine intramuscular blood flow by placing an optical single fiber in the tibialis anterior muscle belly. The studies were performed between 08.00 and 10.00 hours and 20.00 and 22.00 hours. Blood flow was expressed in perfusion units.

Results

The median intramuscular blood flow in the RLS patients' tibialis anterior muscles, recorded from both legs, was significantly higher in the morning, at 17.9 perfusion units, than in the evening, at 12.1 perfusion units (P = 0.004). Corresponding values for the healthy controls were 13.1 perfusion units and 12.0 perfusion units, a non‐significant difference. The relative fold changes of microcirculation in the RLS group compared to healthy age‐matched controls were 0.7 ± 0.3 and 1.1 ± 0.6, respectively (P = 0.04).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that in female patients with primary RLS, the microcirculation in the tibialis anterior muscle is higher in the morning compared with in the evening.
Effects of maternal depressive symptomatology during pregnancy and the postpartum period on infant–mother attachment
Authors: Ohoka Harue , Koide Takayoshi , Goto Setsuko , Murase Satomi , Kanai Atsuko , Masuda Tomoko , Aleksic Branko , Ishikawa Naoko , Furumura Kaori , Ozaki Norio
Published: February 2014

Aim

Postnatal depression has demonstrated long‐term consequences on child cognitive and emotional development; however, the link between maternal and child pathology has not been clearly identified. We conducted a prospective study using self‐rating questionnaires to clarify the association between bonding disorder and maternal mood during pregnancy and after childbirth.

Methods

A total of 389 women participated in this study and completed questionnaires. Participants were asked to complete the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and the Mother‐to‐Infant Bonding Scale four times during pregnancy and the postpartum period.

Results

We found statistically significant weak to moderate correlations (r = 0.14–0.39) between the EPDS and Mother‐to‐Infant Bonding Scale scores at each testing period. Women who experienced low mood tended to have stronger bonding disorder. Furthermore, the effectiveness of attachment between the mother and child was closely related to the mood of the mother as measured by the EPDS.

Conclusion

We observed different patterns of bonding and maternal mood. Distinct subtypes regarding maternal mood and formation of mother‐to‐infant attachment suggests that analysis of bonding disorder should be performed considering the course of maternal depressive symptoms.
Patient and family factors associated with family accommodation in obsessive–compulsive disorder
Authors: Gomes Juliana Braga , Van Noppen Barbara , Pato Michele , Braga Daniela Tusi , Meyer Elisabeth , Bortoncello Cristiane Flôres , Cordioli Aristides Volpato
Published: February 2014

Aim

Obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) impacts family functioning as family members modify their personal and family routines, participate in rituals, and provide reassurance. These behaviors have been identified as family accommodation (FA), a phenomenon that, if ignored, may facilitate OCD symptoms and lead to poorer prognosis. Because FA has been recognized as a predictor of treatment outcome, we examined the prevalence of FA and identified patient and family sociodemographic and clinical variables associated with FA in an outpatient sample.

Methods

The study comprised 228 subjects, namely, 114 patients with OCD and 114 family members, assessed before the patients entered a 12‐session cognitive behavioral group therapy program. A multivariate linear regression model was used to control for confounding factors and to evaluate variables independently associated with FA. FA was evaluated using the Family Accommodation Scale for Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder – Interviewer Rated.

Results

FA was found to be highly prevalent among family members. Two patient factors positively associated with FA were OCD severity as measured by the Clinical Global Impressions Scale and higher scores on the Obsessions dimension of the Obsessive–Compulsive Inventory – Revised. Family members' characteristics that were positively associated with FA were higher scores on the Obsessive–Compulsive Inventory – Revised hoarding subscale and being the patient's spouse.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the early identification of patients and family members who could benefit from interventions aimed at reducing FA could improve treatment outcomes.
Semi‐Automated Registration Of Close‐Range Hyperspectral Scans Using Oriented Digital Camera Imagery And A 3d Model
Authors: Sima Aleksandra A. , Buckley Simon J. , Kurz Tobias H. , Schneider Danilo
Published: February 2014

Diverse applications can benefit from the integration of data acquired by a new generation of close‐range imaging sensors with high‐resolution three‐dimensional (3D) geometric data. However, such integration requires increased automation and efficiency of image‐data registration to guarantee adoption by users beyond the geomatics community. This paper presents a semi‐automated method for registering terrestrial panoramic hyperspectral imagery with lidar models and conventional digital photography. The method relies on finding corresponding points between images acquired in significantly different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum, from different viewpoints, and with different spatial resolution and geometric projections. Optimisation of the scale invariant feature transform (SIFT) operator was required to ensure a sufficient number of homologous points, as well as a routine for eliminating false matches. A band selection routine maximises the number of points found while minimising the input data for SIFT. Three‐dimensional object coordinates were derived in the lidar model and used as control points in a bundle block adjustment to determine the hyperspectral exterior orientation and intrinsic camera parameters. The method developed was applied to two datasets with different characteristics, and the results indicate that the proposed method is a time‐saving alternative to manual approaches.
Resource utilisation Efficiency: A South African Provincial Evaluation
Authors: van Heerden Chris , Rossouw Riaan
Published: February 2014

The objective of this paper is to analyse the utilisation of production capacity and total under‐utilisation in order to identify weak‐performing industries across the nine South African provinces. Detecting inefficiencies within the different provinces will help to identify where sound managerial or government intervention is required, which can contribute to the future success of the New Growth Path Framework and the Strategic Integrated Projects. Using a multistage data envelopment analysis model at the subnational level, several categories of production factors are explored: intermediate demand, labour, capital, as well as taxes and subsidies. The results emphasise South Africa's weak infrastructure and the failure to effectively promote stability in managing factor inputs. The results further illustrate that industry scale efficiency for water and electricity are poorest across all provinces, highlighting the current water and energy supply concerns in South Africa and problem areas associated with the National Development Program.
Objective Evaluation of the Width of Source Ensemble in Virtual Halls
Authors: Cerdá Salvador , Giménez Alicia , Cibrián Rosa , Segura Jaume , Montell Radha , Barba Arturo
Published: February 2014

In this work, we study the effects of the width of the sound source in several acoustical virtual room models with different topologies, sizes and uses, calibrated with commercial software. To achieve this aim, a square distribution of sound sources with variable side length has been considered. We have auralized four channels of speech signal and musical signal in three different locations in each room. By using signal processing techniques, a comparison of multisource auralizations with the ones obtained from a single source in the middle of the stage is made. Also, the variations between the usual room parameters obtained from these simulations are analyzed, in order to show the effect of the hall in the objective evaluation according to the source width.

Paper NCAD2012-72001 is available online only.
Science Advances
Authors: McNutt Marcia , Leshner Alan I.
Published: February 2014

The mission of the nonprofit American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), the publisher of
Science
, is to advance science for the benefit of all humankind.
Science
contributes to that mission by communicating the very best research across the full range of scientific fields to an extremely broad international audience. The research enterprise has grown dramatically in the past few decades in the number of high-quality practitioners and results, but the capacity for
Science
to accommodate those works in our journal has not kept pace. Its editors turn away papers that are potentially important, well written, of broad interest, and technically well executed. Although other journals provide publishing venues for more papers, many authors still desire to be published in
Science
, a journal known for its selectivity, high standards, rapid publication, and high visibility.
Detection of Carbapenemases by Real-Time PCR and Melt Curve Analysis on the BD Max System
Authors: Hofko Marjeta , Mischnik Alexander , Kaase Martin , Zimmermann Stefan , Dalpke Alexander H.
Published: February 2014

We developed a multiplex SYBR green real-time PCR for the BD Max instrument (BD Diagnostics, Sparks, MD) to detect a panel of carbapenemases. The assay was evaluated with 152 consecutive isolates sent to the German National Reference Laboratory, and 65/65 of the carbapenemase-positive and 87/87 of the carbapenemase-negative strains were identified correctly.
Association between Norovirus and Rotavirus Infection and Histo-Blood Group Antigen Types in Vietnamese Children
Authors: Trang Nguyen Van , Vu Hau ThiBich , Le Nhung ThiHong , Huang Pengwei , Jiang Xi , Anh Dang Duc
Published: February 2014

Norovirus and rotavirus are the two most important causes of acute gastroenteritis in children worldwide. Both norovirus and rotavirus recognize human histo-blood group antigens (HBGAs), and multiple binding patterns for HBGAs have been reported. To explore the role of HBGAs in host susceptibility to norovirus and rotavirus, we conducted a cross-sectional study in children hospitalized with diarrhea in northern Vietnam from September 2010 through September 2012. Of 260 children with paired stool and saliva samples, 158 (61%) were classified as HBGA secretors (Le
a−b+
), 31 (12%) were nonsecretors (Le
a+b−
), and 71 (27%) were partial secretors (Le
a+b+
). Norovirus was detected in 50 patients (19%), with viral genotypes GII.3 (
n
= 28) and GII.4 (
n
= 22) being the most common. All children infected with norovirus strains of genotype GII.4 were either HBGA secretors or partial secretors. Of the 28 GII.3 cases, 12 involved HBGA secretors, 11 partial secretors, and 5 nonsecretors. A total of 85 children tested positive for rotavirus, 74 of whom were infected with genotype P[8], 5 with P[4], and 6 with P[6]; all were HBGA secretors or partial secretors. This is the first epidemiological study demonstrating in a population that HBGA phenotype is a key susceptibility factor for both norovirus and rotavirus infections in children.
Is Leclercia adecarboxylata a New and Unfamiliar Marine Pathogen?
Authors: Keren Yaniv , Keshet Doron , Eidelman Mark , Geffen Yuval , Raz-Pasteur Ayelet , Hussein Khetam
Published: February 2014

Leclercia adecarboxylata
infection is rarely reported in the context of human infections. In the scant cases reported in the literature, it usually involves individuals who are immunocompromised with infections of a polymicrobial nature. Recently, data have begun to accumulate suggesting that
L. adecarboxylata
is a pathogen associated with water environments. We review the literature regarding
L. adecarboxylata
infections and present a case of cellulitis and soft-tissue infection in the foot of a healthy surfer.
A Recombinant Hendra Virus G Glycoprotein Subunit Vaccine Protects Nonhuman Primates against Hendra Virus Challenge
Authors: Mire Chad E. , Geisbert Joan B. , Agans Krystle N. , Feng Yan-Ru , Fenton Karla A. , Bossart Katharine N. , Yan Lianying , Chan Yee-Peng , Broder Christopher C. , Geisbert Thomas W.
Published: February 2014

Hendra virus (HeV) is a zoonotic emerging virus belonging to the family
Paramyxoviridae
. HeV causes severe and often fatal respiratory and/or neurologic disease in both animals and humans. Currently, there are no licensed vaccines or antiviral drugs approved for human use. A number of animal models have been developed for studying HeV infection, with the African green monkey (AGM) appearing to most faithfully reproduce the human disease. Here, we assessed the utility of a newly developed recombinant subunit vaccine based on the HeV attachment (G) glycoprotein in the AGM model. Four AGMs were vaccinated with two doses of the HeV vaccine (sG
HeV
) containing Alhydrogel, four AGMs received the sG
HeV
with Alhydrogel and CpG, and four control animals did not receive the sG
HeV
vaccine. Animals were challenged with a high dose of infectious HeV 21 days after the boost vaccination. None of the eight specifically vaccinated animals showed any evidence of clinical illness and survived the challenge. All four controls became severely ill with symptoms consistent with HeV infection, and three of the four animals succumbed 8 days after exposure. Success of the recombinant subunit vaccine in AGMs provides pivotal data in supporting its further preclinical development for potential human use.

IMPORTANCE
A Hendra virus attachment (G) glycoprotein subunit vaccine was tested in nonhuman primates to assess its ability to protect them from a lethal infection with Hendra virus. It was found that all vaccinated African green monkeys were completely protected against subsequent Hendra virus infection and disease. The success of this new subunit vaccine in nonhuman primates provides critical data in support of its further development for future human use.
Ultrastructural Characterization and Three-Dimensional Architecture of Replication Sites in Dengue Virus-Infected Mosquito Cells
Authors: Junjhon Jiraphan , Pennington Janice G. , Edwards Thomas J. , Perera Rushika , Lanman Jason , Kuhn Richard J.
Published: February 2014

During dengue virus infection of host cells, intracellular membranes are rearranged into distinct subcellular structures such as double-membrane vesicles, convoluted membranes, and tubular structures. Recent electron tomographic studies have provided a detailed three-dimensional architecture of the double-membrane vesicles, representing the sites of dengue virus replication, but temporal and spatial evidence linking membrane morphogenesis with viral RNA synthesis is lacking. Integrating techniques in electron tomography and molecular virology, we defined an early period in virus-infected mosquito cells during which the formation of a virus-modified membrane structure, the double-membrane vesicle, is proportional to the rate of viral RNA synthesis. Convoluted membranes were absent in dengue virus-infected C6/36 cells. Electron tomographic reconstructions elucidated a high-resolution view of the replication complexes inside vesicles and allowed us to identify distinct pathways of particle formation. Hence, our findings extend the structural details of dengue virus replication within mosquito cells and highlight their differences from mammalian cells.

IMPORTANCE
Dengue virus induces several distinct intracellular membrane structures within the endoplasmic reticulum of mammalian cells. These structures, including double-membrane vesicles and convoluted membranes, are linked, respectively, with viral replication and viral protein processing. However, dengue virus cycles between two disparate animal groups with differing physiologies: mammals and mosquitoes. Using techniques in electron microscopy, we examined the differences between intracellular structures induced by dengue virus in mosquito cells. Additionally, we utilized techniques in molecular virology to temporally link events in virus replication to the formation of these dengue virus-induced membrane structures.
Differential Properties of Cytomegalovirus pUL97 Kinase Isoforms Affect Viral Replication and Maribavir Susceptibility
Authors: Webel Rike , Hakki Morgan , Prichard Mark N. , Rawlinson William D. , Marschall Manfred , Chou Sunwen
Published: February 2014

The human cytomegalovirus (HCMV)-encoded kinase pUL97 is required for efficient viral replication. Previous studies described two isoforms of pUL97, the full-length isoform (M1) and a smaller isoform likely resulting from translation initiation at codon 74 (M74). Here, we report the detection of a third pUL97 isoform during viral infection resulting from translation initiation at codon 157 (isoform M157). The consistent expression of isoform M157 as a minor component of pUL97 during infection with clinical and laboratory-adapted HCMV strains was suppressed when codon 157 was mutagenized. Viral mutants expressing specific isoforms were generated to compare their growth and drug susceptibility phenotypes, as well as pUL97 intracellular localization patterns and kinase activities. The exclusive expression of isoform M157 resulted in substantially reduced viral growth and resistance to the pUL97 inhibitor maribavir while retaining susceptibility to ganciclovir. Confocal imaging demonstrated reduced nuclear import of amino-terminal deletion isoforms compared to isoform M1. Isoform M157 showed reduced efficiency of various substrate protein interactions and autophosphorylation, whereas Rb phosphorylation was preserved. These results reveal differential properties of pUL97 isoforms that affect viral replication, with implications for the antiviral efficacy of maribavir.

IMPORTANCE
The HCMV UL97 kinase performs important functions in viral replication that are targeted by the antiviral drug maribavir. Here, we describe a naturally occurring short isoform of the kinase that when expressed by itself in a recombinant virus results in altered intracellular localization, impaired growth, and high-level resistance to maribavir compared to those of the predominant full-length counterpart. This is another factor to consider in explaining why maribavir appears to have variable antiviral activity in cell culture and
in vivo
.
MicroRNA 155 Regulates Japanese Encephalitis Virus-Induced Inflammatory Response by Targeting Src Homology 2-Containing Inositol Phosphatase 1
Authors: Thounaojam Menaka Chanu , Kundu Kiran , Kaushik Deepak Kumar , Swaroop Shalini , Mahadevan Anita , Shankar Susarla Krishna , Basu Anirban
Published: February 2014

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are single-stranded small RNA molecules that regulate various cellular processes. miRNA 155 (miR-155) regulates various aspects of innate and adaptive immune responses and plays a key role in various viral infections and the resulting neuroinflammation. The present study evaluated the involvement of miR-155 in modulating
Japanese encephalitis virus
(JEV)-induced neuroinflammation. We observed that miR-155 expression was upregulated during JEV infection of mouse primary microglia, the BV-2 microglia cell line, and in both mouse and human brains.
In vitro
and
in vivo
knockdown of miR-155 minimized JEV-induced inflammatory responses. In the present study, we confirmed targeting of the Src homology 2-containing inositol phosphatase 1 (SHIP1) 3′ untranslated region (UTR) by miR-155 in the context of JEV infection. Inhibition of SHIP1 by miR-155 resulted in higher beta interferon (IFN-β) and proinflammatory cytokine production through activation of TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK-1). Based on these observations, we conclude that miR-155 modulates the neuroinflammatory response during JEV infection via negative regulation of SHIP1 expression. Thus, modulation of miR-155 could be a novel strategy to regulate JEV-induced neuroinflammation.

IMPORTANCE
Japanese encephalitis virus
(JEV), a member of the family
Flaviviridae
that causes Japanese encephalitis (JE), is the most common mosquito-borne encephalitis virus in the Asia-Pacific region. The disease is feared, as currently there are no specific antiviral drugs available. JEV targets the central nervous system, leading to high mortality and neurological and psychiatric sequelae in some of those who survive. The level of inflammation correlates well with the clinical outcome in patients. Recently, microRNA (miRNA), a single-stranded noncoding RNA, has been implicated in various brain disorders. The present study investigates the role of miRNA in JEV-induced neuroinflammation. Our results show that miRNA 155 (miR-155) targets the Src homology 2-containing inositol phosphatase 1 (SHIP1) protein and promotes inflammation by regulating the NF-κB pathway, increasing the expression of various proinflammatory cytokines and the antiviral response. Thus, miR-155 is a potential therapeutic target to develop antivirals in JE and other brain disorders where inflammation plays a significant role in disease progression.
TMPRSS2 Is a Host Factor That Is Essential for Pneumotropism and Pathogenicity of H7N9 Influenza A Virus in Mice
Authors: Tarnow Carolin , Engels Géraldine , Arendt Annika , Schwalm Folker , Sediri Hanna , Preuss Annette , Nelson Peter S. , Garten Wolfgang , Klenk Hans-Dieter , Gabriel Gülsah , Böttcher-Friebertshäuser Eva
Published: February 2014

Cleavage of the hemagglutinin (HA) by host proteases is essential for the infectivity of influenza viruses. Here, we analyzed the role of the serine protease TMPRSS2, which activates HA in the human respiratory tract, in pathogenesis in a mouse model. Replication of the human H7N9 isolate A/Anhui/1/13 and of human H1N1 and H3N2 viruses was compared in TMPRSS2 knockout (
TMPRSS2
−/−
) and wild-type (WT) mice. Knockout of TMPRSS2 expression inhibited H7N9 influenza virus replication in explants of murine tracheas, bronchi, and lungs. H1N1 virus replication was also strongly suppressed in airway explants of
TMPRSS2
−/−
mice, while H3N2 virus replication was only marginally affected. H7N9 and H1N1 viruses were apathogenic in
TMPRSS2
−/−
mice, whereas WT mice developed severe disease with mortality rates of 100% and 20%, respectively. In contrast, all H3N2 infected
TMPRSS2
−/−
and WT mice succumbed to lethal infection. Cleavage analysis showed that H7 and H1 are efficiently activated by TMPRSS2, whereas H3 is less susceptible to the protease. Our data demonstrate that TMPRSS2 is a host factor that is essential for pneumotropism and pathogenicity of H7N9 and H1N1 influenza virus in mice. In contrast, replication of H3N2 virus appears to depend on another, not yet identified protease, supporting the concept that human influenza viruses differ in protease specificity.

IMPORTANCE
Cleavage of the hemagglutinin (HA) by host proteases is essential for the infectivity of influenza virus, but little is known about its relevance for pathogenesis in mammals. Here, we show that knockout mice that do not express the HA-activating protease TMPRSS2 are resistant to pulmonary disease with lethal outcome when infected with influenza A viruses of subtypes H7N9 and H1N1, whereas they are not protected from lethal H3N2 virus infection. These findings demonstrate that human influenza viruses differ in protease specificity, and that expression of the appropriate protease in respiratory tissues is essential for pneumotropism and pathogenicity. Our observations also demonstrate that HA-activating proteases and in particular TMPRSS2 are promising targets for influenza therapy.
Substitutions near the Hemagglutinin Receptor-Binding Site Determine the Antigenic Evolution of Influenza A H3N2 Viruses in U.S. Swine
Authors: Lewis Nicola S. , Anderson Tavis K. , Kitikoon Pravina , Skepner Eugene , Burke David F. , Vincent Amy L.
Published: February 2014

Swine influenza A virus is an endemic and economically important pathogen in pigs, with the potential to infect other host species. The hemagglutinin (HA) protein is the primary target of protective immune responses and the major component in swine influenza A vaccines. However, as a result of antigenic drift, vaccine strains must be regularly updated to reflect currently circulating strains. Characterizing the cross-reactivity between strains in pigs and seasonal influenza virus strains in humans is also important in assessing the relative risk of interspecies transmission of viruses from one host population to the other. Hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay data for swine and human H3N2 viruses were used with antigenic cartography to quantify the antigenic differences among H3N2 viruses isolated from pigs in the United States from 1998 to 2013 and the relative cross-reactivity between these viruses and current human seasonal influenza A virus strains. Two primary antigenic clusters were found circulating in the pig population, but with enough diversity within and between the clusters to suggest updates in vaccine strains are needed. We identified single amino acid substitutions that are likely responsible for antigenic differences between the two primary antigenic clusters and between each antigenic cluster and outliers. The antigenic distance between current seasonal influenza virus H3 strains in humans and those endemic in swine suggests that population immunity may not prevent the introduction of human viruses into pigs, and possibly vice versa, reinforcing the need to monitor and prepare for potential incursions.

IMPORTANCE
Influenza A virus (IAV) is an important pathogen in pigs and humans. The hemagglutinin (HA) protein is the primary target of protective immune responses and the major target of vaccines. However, vaccine strains must be updated to reflect current strains. Characterizing the differences between seasonal IAV in humans and swine IAV is important in assessing the relative risk of interspecies transmission of viruses. We found two primary antigenic clusters of H3N2 in the U.S. pig population, with enough diversity to suggest updates in swine vaccine strains are needed. We identified changes in the HA protein that are likely responsible for these differences and that may be useful in predicting when vaccines need to be updated. The difference between human H3N2 viruses and those in swine is enough that population immunity is unlikely to prevent new introductions of human IAV into pigs or vice versa, reinforcing the need to monitor and prepare for potential introductions.
Pulmonary hypertension in a pregnant patient with thyrotoxicosis due to Graves' disease: considerations with respect to treatment
Authors: Mathot Vanja , Oosterwerff Erik , van Pampus Mariëlle G , Riezebos Robert
Published: February 2014

A 13 weeks pregnant 24-year-old patient with a history of Graves' disease presented with progressive dyspnoea existing for 4–6 weeks. Blood tests showed severe thyrotoxicosis and transthoracic echocardiography suggested severe pulmonary hypertension (PH) which was thought to be secondary to thyrotoxicosis. PH secondary to thyrotoxicosis is often reversible and may occur 3–14 months after normalisation of free T4 and T3 levels. The maternal mortality risk of PH in pregnancy is high despite modern treatment strategies (17–33%). In this case, PH was carefully monitored for 1 month. No changes in pulmonary artery pressure were found despite immediate treatment with propylthiouracil and β-blockade. We anticipated that the normalisation of pulmonary artery pressure would not occur during this pregnancy and that the risk of complications would remain high. In the interest of the mother an abortion was suggested. Termination of pregnancy took place at the gestational age of 16 weeks.
Burkholderia cepaciaendophthalmitis, in a penicillin allergic patient, following a ranibizumab injection
Authors: Saffra Norman , Moriarty Emily
Published: February 2014

Burkholderia cepacia, a Gram-negative bacterium commonly found in water and soil, is a rare cause of endophthalmitis. The authors report a case of a penicillin-allergic patient who presented 15 days after an uneventful injection of ranibizumab for neovascular age-related macular degeneration with culture-positiveB cepaciaendophthalmitis. Initial antibiotic therapy using non-penicillin-based medications was not successful in eradicating the bacteria. Subsequent treatment with a third-generation cephalosporin resulted in complete resolution of the infection.B cepaciashould be included among the bacterial species that may cause endophthalmitis after intravitreal injections.
Antenatally detected solid tumour of kidney
Authors: Panda Shasanka Shekhar , Mandelia Ankur , Gupta Devendra Kumar , Singh Amit
Published: February 2014

Congenital renal tumours are rare and usually benign. Polyhydramnios is the most common mode of presentation. Although most cases have been diagnosed postnatally, with advances in imaging technology, an increasing number of cases are being detected on antenatal scans. We describe a case of solid tumour of kidney detected in the second trimester of pregnancy and managed by surgery in the postnatal period.
Diffuse peritoneal deciduosis mimicking metastatic lesions
Authors: Baroni Cruz Dennis , Dhamer Thricy , da Rocha Vívian Wünderlich , Dupont Roberta Finkler
Published: February 2014

A 32-year-old woman with an uneventful antenatal period underwent a caesarean section for breech presentation. At laparotomy, there were multiple yellowish elastic nodules distributed along the parietal peritoneal surface, totalling over 30 lesions and worrying the surgical team. The conclusive diagnosis of peritoneal deciduosis was supported by pathological analysis (histology and immunohistochemistry). The present case reports an uncommon presentation of diffuse peritoneal deciduosis mimicking metastatic lesions.
Linked health data for pharmacovigilance in children: perceived legal and ethical issues for stakeholders and data guardians
Authors: Hopf Yvonne Marina , Bond Christine B , Francis Jill J , Haughney John , Helms Peter J
Published: February 2014

Objective

The inclusion of the Community Health Index in the recording of National Health Service (NHS) contacts in Scotland facilitates national linkage of data such as prescribing and healthcare utilisation. This linkage could be the basis for identification of adverse drug reactions. The aim of this article is to report the views of healthcare professionals on data sharing, ownership and the legal and other applicable frameworks relevant to linkage of routinely collected paediatric healthcare data.

Design

Qualitative study using semistructured face-to-face interviews addressing the study aims.

Participants

Purposive sample of professional stakeholders (n=25) including experts on ethics, data protection, pharmacovigilance, data linkage, legal issues and prescribing. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and thematically analysed using a framework approach.

Results

Participants identified existing data sharing systems in the UK. Access to healthcare data should be approved by the data owners. The definition of data ownership and associated legal responsibilities for linked healthcare data were seen as important factors to ensure accountability for the use of linked data. Yet data owners were seen as facilitators of the proposed data linkage. Twelve frameworks (legal, regulatory and governance) applicable to the linkage of healthcare data were identified.

Conclusions

A large number of potentially relevant legal and regulatory frameworks were identified. Ownership of the linked data was seen as an extension of responsibility for, or guardianship of, the source datasets. The consensus emerging from the present study was that clarity is required on the definition of data sharing, data ownership and responsibilities of data owners.
A systematic review of barriers to early presentation and diagnosis with breast cancer among black women
Authors: Jones Claire EL , Maben Jill , Jack Ruth H , Davies Elizabeth A , Forbes Lindsay JL , Lucas Grace , Ream Emma
Published: February 2014

Objective

To explore barriers to early presentation and diagnosis with breast cancer among black women.

Design

Systematic review.

Methods

We searched multiple bibliographic databases (January 1991–February 2013) for primary research, published in English, conducted in developed countries and investigating barriers to early presentation and diagnosis with symptomatic breast cancer among black women (≥18 years). Studies were excluded if they did not report separate findings by ethnic group or gender, only reported differences in time to presentation/diagnosis, or reported on interventions and barriers to cancer screening. We followed Cochrane and PRISMA guidance to identify relevant research. Findings were integrated through thematic synthesis. Designs of quantitative studies made meta-analysis impossible.

Results

We identified 18 studies (6183 participants). Delay was multifactorial, individual and complex. Factors contributing to delay included: poor symptom and risk factor knowledge; fear of detecting breast abnormality; fear of cancer treatments; fear of partner abandonment; embarrassment disclosing symptoms to healthcare professionals; taboo and stigmatism. Presentation appears quicker following disclosure. Influence of fatalism and religiosity on delay is unclear from evidence in these studies. We compared older studies (≥10 years) with newer ones (<10 years) to determine changes over time. In older studies, delaying factors included: inaccessibility of healthcare services; competing priorities and concerns about partner abandonment. Partner abandonment was studied in older studies but not in newer ones. Comparisons of healthy women and cancer populations revealed differences between how people perceive they would behave, and actually behave, on finding breast abnormality.

Conclusions

Strategies to improve early presentation and diagnosis with breast cancer among black women need to address symptom recognition and interpretation of risk, as well as fears of the consequences of cancer. The review is limited by the paucity of studies conducted outside the USA and limited detail reported by published studies preventing comparison between ethnic groups.
More than a score: a qualitative study of ancillary benefits of performance measurement
Authors: Powell Adam A , White Katie M , Partin Melissa R , Halek Krysten , Hysong Sylvia J , Zarling Edwin , Kirsh Susan R , Bloomfield Hanna E
Published: February 2014

Background

Prior research has examined clinical effects of performance measurement systems. To the extent that non-clinical effects have been researched, the focus has been on negative unintended consequences. Yet, these same systems may also have ancillary benefits for patients and providers—that is, benefits that extend beyond improvements on clinical measures. The purpose of this study is to identify and describe potential ancillary benefits of performance measures as perceived by primary care staff and facility leaders in a large US healthcare system.

Methods

In-person individual semistructured interviews were conducted with 59 primary care staff and facility leaders at four Veterans Health Administration facilities. Transcribed interviews were coded and organised into thematic categories.

Results

Interviewed staff observed that local performance measurement implementation practices can result in increased patient knowledge and motivation. These effects on patients can lead to improved performance scores and additional ancillary benefits. Performance measurement implementation can also directly result in ancillary benefits for the patients and providers. Patients may experience greater satisfaction with care and psychosocial benefits associated with increased provider–patient communication. Ancillary benefits of performance measurement for providers include increased pride in individual or organisational performance and greater confidence that one's practice is grounded in evidence-based medicine.

Conclusions

A comprehensive understanding of the effects of performance measurement systems needs to incorporate ancillary benefits as well as effects on clinical performance scores and negative unintended consequences. Although clinical performance has been the focus of most evaluations of performance measurement to date, both patient care and provider satisfaction may improve more rapidly if all three categories of effects are considered when designing and evaluating performance measurement systems.
LncRNA profile study reveals a three-lncRNA signature associated with the survival of patients with oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Li Jiagen , Chen Zhaoli , Tian Liqing , Zhou Chengcheng , He Max Yifan , Gao Yibo , Wang Suya , Zhou Fang , Shi Susheng , Feng Xiaoli , Sun Nan , Liu Ziyuan , Skogerboe Geir , Dong Jingsi , Yao Ran , Zhao Yuda , Sun Jian , Zhang Baihua , Yu Yue , Shi Xuejiao , Luo Mei , Shao Kang , Li Ning , Qiu Bin , Tan Fengwei , Chen Runsheng , He Jie
Published: February 2014

Background

Oesophageal cancer is one of the most deadly forms of cancer worldwide. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are often found to have important regulatory roles.

Objective

To assess the lncRNA expression profile of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and identify prognosis-related lncRNAs.

Method

LncRNA expression profiles were studied by microarray in paired tumour and normal tissues from 119 patients with OSCC and validated by qRT-PCR. The 119 patients were divided randomly into training (n=60) and test (n=59) groups. A prognostic signature was developed from the training group using a random Forest supervised classification algorithm and a nearest shrunken centroid algorithm, then validated in a test group and further, in an independent cohort (n=60). The independence of the signature in survival prediction was evaluated by multivariable Cox regression analysis.

Results

LncRNAs showed significantly altered expression in OSCC tissues. From the training group, we identified a three-lncRNA signature (including the lncRNAs ENST00000435885.1, XLOC_013014 and ENST00000547963.1) which classified the patients into two groups with significantly different overall survival (median survival 19.2 months vs >60 months, p<0.0001). The signature was applied to the test group (median survival 21.5 months vs >60 months, p=0.0030) and independent cohort (median survival 25.8 months vs >48 months, p=0.0187) and showed similar prognostic values in both. Multivariable Cox regression analysis showed that the signature was an independent prognostic factor for patients with OSCC. Stratified analysis suggested that the signature was prognostic within clinical stages.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the three-lncRNA signature is a new biomarker for the prognosis of patients with OSCC, enabling more accurate prediction of survival.
Pre-procedural fasting for coronary interventions: is it time to change practice?
Authors: Hamid Tahir , Aleem Qaiser , Lau Yeecheng , Singh Ravi , McDonald John , Macdonald John E , Sastry Sanjay , Arya Sanjay , Bainbridge Anthony , Mudawi Telal , Balachandran Kanarath
Published: February 2014

Introduction

Traditionally, patients are kept nil-per-os/nil-by-mouth (NPO/NBM) prior to invasive cardiac procedures, yet there exists neither evidence nor clear guidance about the benefits of this practice.

Objectives

To demonstrate that percutaneous cardiac catheterisation does not require prior fasting.

Methods

The data source is a retrospective analysis of data registry of consecutive patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and stable angina at two district general hospitals in the UK with no on-site cardiac surgery services.

Results

A total of 1916 PCI procedures were performed over a 3-year period. None of the patients were kept NPO/NBM prior to their coronary procedures. The mean age was 67±16 years. 1349 (70%) were men; 38.5% (738/1916) had chronic stable angina, while the rest had ACS. 21% (398/1916) were diabetics while 53% (1017/1916) were hypertensive. PCI was technically successful in 95% (1821/1916) patients. 88.5% (1697/1916) had transradial approach. 77% (570/738) of elective PCI patients were discharged within 6 h postprocedure. No patients required emergency endotracheal intubation and there were no occurrences of intraprocedural or postprocedural aspiration pneumonia.

Conclusions

Our observational study demonstrates that patients undergoing PCI do not need to be fasted prior to their procedures.
Attitudes towards cytology and human papillomavirus self-sample collection for cervical screening among Hindu women in London, UK: a mixed methods study
Authors: Cadman Louise , Ashdown-Barr Lesley , Waller Jo , Szarewski Anne
Published: February 2014

Objectives

To explore the attitudes, views and understanding of women attending a Hindu temple in London, UK towards cervical screening, human papillomavirus (HPV) testing and two HPV self-sample collection devices: the Dacron swab and Evalyn®brush.

Methods

A mixed methods design comprising a survey and four focus groups was adopted. Focus group discussions were recorded and transcribed verbatim and explored using thematic framework analysis.

Results

A total of 185 Hindu women completed surveys and 23 attended focus groups. Of the respondents 75% aged 25–64 years reported having cervical screening within the last 5 years; 85% had attended college or university. Familiar barriers to attendance for screening were identified: fear of pain and the test result, embarrassment, screener's attitude, inconvenient appointment times and difficulty with child care. Additional barriers cited included age and country of birth, with older and Indian-born women thought to be less likely to attend for screening. Self-collected sampling had a mixed reception. Women were not confident that their sample would be as good as a clinician sample and expressed concern about the impact that a positive HPV result might have on their relationships.

Conclusions

Screening attendance in this highly educated group of Hindu women was slightly lower than in the general population (75% of women aged 25–64 years had been screened in the last 5 years compared with 79% in England as a whole). Familiar barriers to screening were identified. Women felt able to collect their own sample for HPV testing with a Dacron swab but lacked confidence that it would be as good as that obtained by a clinician.
Ectomycorrhizal fungal hyphae communities vary more along a pH and nitrogen gradient than between decayed wood and mineral soil microsites
Authors: Walker Jennifer K.M. , Phillips Lori A. , Jones Melanie D.
Published: February 2014

Ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungal community composition is structured by soil properties, but specialization for woody microsites by ECM fungi is equivocal. Because fungal mycelia explore the substrate and colonize nutrient patches, studies targeting ECM fungal hyphae may reveal niche preferences. Moreover, studying the distribution and composition of ECM fungal hyphal communities contributes to our understanding of nutrient cycling in forest soils. We used next-generation sequencing to determine whether the composition of forest floor fungal communities present as hyphae differed among three microsite types: decayed wood, mineral soil adjacent to intact logs, or control mineral soil of mature spruce forests in British Columbia. The microsites were located in three blocks that were separated by 1 km and varied in elevation. Across the site, the ECM fungal lineage /amphinema–tylospora was the most operational taxonomic unit (OTU)-rich group, while the saprotrophic order Mortierellales was also dominant. ECM fungal species differed among microsites. For example, ECM fungal OTUs identified as Tylospora fibrillosa and Russula curtipes were more frequent in decayed wood as compared with control mineral soil. However, ECM fungal communities were more strongly structured by block characteristics, and we conclude there is no distinct group of ECM fungi specializing in the soil microsites examined in this forest.
Effects ofLactobacillus plantarumon production performance, immune characteristics, antioxidant status, and intestinal microflora of bursin-immunized broilers
Authors: Shen Xuejiao , Yi Dan , Ni Xueqin , Zeng Dong , Jing Bo , Lei Mingxia , Bian Zhengrong , Zeng Yan , Li Tao , Xin Jinge
Published: February 2014

Examples of probiotics that can promote host health by improving its intestinal microbial balance and intestinal immunity belong to the genus Lactobacillus. Bursin (BS) is a peptide isolated from the bursa of Fabricius for use as an adjuvant for a variety of immunogens. To investigate the synergistic effects of Lactobacillus plantarum (LP) dietary supplementation and BS immunization on production performance, immune characteristics, antioxidant status, and intestinal microflora in broilers, we randomly allocated 200 1-day-old broilers of mixed sex into 4 treatments in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement (LP–/BS–, LP–/BS+, LP+/BS–, LP+/BS+) for 42 days. BS immunization enhanced immune response by increasing serum total immunoglobulin G concentration and interleukin-6 concentration, promoted antioxidant capacity by increasing catalase activities in serum and liver and by decreasing serum malondialdehyde (MDA) content at 42 days of age (DOA), and enriched intestinal microflora diversity. LP supplementation enhanced immune response by increasing interleukin-2 concentration at 42 DOA; promoted antioxidant capacity by increasing liver catalase activities, increasing glutathione peroxidase activities in serum and liver at 21 DOA, and decreasing serum MDA content at 42 DOA; promoted intestinal microflora composition by decreasing total aerobes and Escherichia coli counts at 21 DOA, by increasing total anaerobes count at 21 DOA, and by increasing Lactobacillus spp. and Bifidobacterium spp. counts at both 21 and 42 DOA. The interactions between BS and LP had a significant effect on daily body mass gain and feed conversion ratio in the starter period (1–21 DOA); on interleukin-2 concentration and liver MDA content at 21 DOA; and on thymus index, peripheral lymphocyte proliferation, and E. coli counts at 42 DOA. Overall, these data suggest that the combination of LP dietary supplementation and BS immunization promoted the production performance, immune characteristics, antioxidant status, and intestinal microflora of broilers.