bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Less Is More: Ebola Virus Surface Glycoprotein Expression Levels Regulate Virus Production and Infectivity
Authors: Mohan Gopi S. , Ye Ling , Li Wenfang , Monteiro Ana , Lin Xiaoqian , Sapkota Bishu , Pollack Brian P. , Compans Richard W. , Yang Chinglai
Published: November 2014

The Ebola virus (EBOV) surface glycoprotein (GP
1,2
) mediates host cell attachment and fusion and is the primary target for host neutralizing antibodies. Expression of GP
1,2
at high levels disrupts normal cell physiology, and EBOV uses an RNA-editing mechanism to regulate expression of the GP gene. In this study, we demonstrate that high levels of GP
1,2
expression impair production and release of EBOV virus-like particles (VLPs) as well as infectivity of GP
1,2
-pseudotyped viruses. We further show that this effect is mediated through two mechanisms. First, high levels of GP
1,2
expression reduce synthesis of other proteins needed for virus assembly. Second, viruses containing high levels of GP
1,2
are intrinsically less infectious, possibly due to impaired receptor binding or endosomal processing. Importantly, proteolysis can rescue the infectivity of high-GP
1,2
-containing viruses. Taken together, our findings indicate that GP
1,2
expression levels have a profound effect on factors that contribute to virus fitness and that RNA editing may be an important mechanism employed by EBOV to regulate GP
1,2
expression in order to optimize virus production and infectivity.

IMPORTANCE
The Ebola virus (EBOV), as well as other members of the
Filoviridae
family, causes severe hemorrhagic fever that is highly lethal, with up to 90% mortality. The EBOV surface glycoprotein (GP
1,2
) plays important roles in virus infection and pathogenesis, and its expression is tightly regulated by an RNA-editing mechanism during virus replication. Our study demonstrates that the level of GP
1,2
expression profoundly affects virus particle production and release and uncovers a new mechanism by which Ebola virus infectivity is regulated by the level of GP
1,2
expression. These findings extend our understanding of EBOV infection and replication in adaptation of host environments, which will aid the development of countermeasures against EBOV infection.
Specificity of Coxsackievirus B3 Interaction with Human, but Not Murine, Decay-Accelerating Factor: Replacement of a Single Residue within Short Consensus Repeat 2 Prevents Virus Attachment
Authors: Pan Jieyan , Zhang Lili , Organtini Lindsey J. , Hafenstein Susan , Bergelson Jeffrey M.
Published: November 2014

Many coxsackievirus B (CVB) isolates bind to human decay-accelerating factor (DAF) as well as to the coxsackievirus and adenovirus receptor (CAR). However, the virus does not interact with murine DAF. To understand why CVB3 binds specifically to human DAF, we constructed a series of chimeric molecules in which specific regions of the human DAF molecule were replaced by the corresponding murine sequences. We found that replacement of human short consensus repeat 2 (SCR2) with murine SCR2 ablated virus binding to human DAF, as did deletion of human SCR2. Although replacement of human SCR4 had a partial inhibitory effect, deletion of SCR4 had no effect. Within human SCR2, replacement of serine 104 (S104) with the proline residue found in murine DAF eliminated virus binding. On the basis of the structure of the CVB3-DAF complex determined by cryo-electron microscopy, DAF S104 is in close contact with a viral capsid residue, a threonine at VP1 position 271. Replacement of this capsid residue with larger amino acids specifically eliminated virus attachment to human DAF but had no effect on attachment to CAR or replication in HeLa cells. Taken together, these results support the current model of virus-DAF interaction and point to a specific role for VP1 T271 and DAF S104 at the virus-DAF interface.

IMPORTANCEThe results of the present study point to a specific role for VP1 T271 and DAF S104 at the interface between CVB3 and DAF, and they demonstrate how subtle structural changes can dramatically influence virus-receptor interactions. In addition, the results support a recent pseudoatomic model of the CVB3-DAF interaction obtained by cryo-electron microscopy.
Biological and Protective Properties of Immune Sera Directed to the Influenza Virus Neuraminidase
Authors: Halbherr Stefan J. , Ludersdorfer Thomas H. , Ricklin Meret , Locher Samira , Berger Rentsch Marianne , Summerfield Artur , Zimmer Gert
Published: November 2014

The envelope of influenza A viruses contains two large antigens, hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Conventional influenza virus vaccines induce neutralizing antibodies that are predominantly directed to the HA globular head, a domain that is subject to extensive antigenic drift. Antibodies directed to NA are induced at much lower levels, probably as a consequence of the immunodominance of the HA antigen. Although antibodies to NA may affect virus release by inhibiting the sialidase function of the glycoprotein, the antigen has been largely neglected in past vaccine design. In this study, we characterized the protective properties of monospecific immune sera that were generated by vaccination with recombinant RNA replicon particles encoding NA. These immune sera inhibited hemagglutination in an NA subtype-specific and HA subtype-independent manner and interfered with infection of MDCK cells. In addition, they inhibited the sialidase activities of various influenza viruses of the same and even different NA subtypes. With this, the anti-NA immune sera inhibited the spread of H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza virus and HA/NA-pseudotyped viruses in MDCK cells in a concentration-dependent manner. When chickens were immunized with NA recombinant replicon particles and subsequently infected with low-pathogenic avian influenza virus, inflammatory serum markers were significantly reduced and virus shedding was limited or eliminated. These findings suggest that NA antibodies can inhibit virus dissemination by interfering with both virus attachment and egress. Our results underline the potential of high-quality NA antibodies for controlling influenza virus replication and place emphasis on NA as a vaccine antigen.

IMPORTANCEThe neuraminidase of influenza A viruses is a sialidase that acts as a receptor-destroying enzyme facilitating the release of progeny virus from infected cells. Here, we demonstrate that monospecific anti-NA immune sera inhibited not only sialidase activity, but also influenza virus hemagglutination and infection of MDCK cells, suggesting that NA antibodies can interfere with virus attachment. Inhibition of both processes, virus release and virus binding, may explain why NA antibodies efficiently blocked virus disseminationin vitroandin vivo. Anti-NA immune sera showed broader reactivity than anti-HA sera in hemagglutination inhibition tests and demonstrated cross-subtype activity in sialidase inhibition tests. These remarkable features of NA antibodies highlight the importance of the NA antigen for the development of next-generation influenza virus vaccines.
Avian haematology and biochemistry 1. Haematology
Authors: Sabater Mikel , Forbes Neil
Published: November 2014

The class Aves contains more than 9000 species of birds classified in 199 families. While few species‐specific haematological characteristics have been described, there are clear intra‐class variations and differences from vertebrates. This article, the first of a two‐part series on avian haematology and biochemistry, concentrates on haematology. It includes guidance on how to collect blood samples, how to assess the sample and information on the haematological disorders most commonly found in birds.
Causes of mortality and unintentional poisoning in predatory and scavenging birds in California
Authors: Kelly Terra R. , Poppenga Robert H. , Woods Leslie A. , Hernandez Yvette Z. , Boyce Walter M. , Samaniego Francisco J. , Torres Steve G. , Johnson Christine K.
Published: November 2014

Objectives

We documented causes of mortality in an opportunistic sample of golden eagles, turkey vultures and common ravens, and assessed exposure to several contaminants that have been found in carrion and common prey for these species.

Methods

Dead birds were submitted for testing through wildlife rehabilitation centres and a network of wildlife biologists in California from 2007 to 2009.

Results

The leading causes of mortality in this study were collision‐related trauma (63 per cent), lead intoxication (17 per cent) and anticoagulant rodenticide poisoning (8 per cent). Elevated liver lead concentration (≥2 µg/g) and bone lead concentration (>6 µg/g) were detected in 25 and 49 per cent of birds tested, respectively. Approximately 84 per cent of birds tested had detectable rodenticide residues. The majority of rodenticide exposure occurred in peri‐urban areas, suggesting that retail sale and use of commensal rodent baits, particularly in residential and semi‐residential areas in California, may provide a pathway of exposure.

Conclusions

Monitoring anthropogenic causes of mortality in predatory and scavenging bird species provides important data needed to inform on mitigation and regulatory efforts aimed at reducing threats to these populations.
Watershed-scale effectiveness of floodplain habitat restoration for juvenile coho salmon in the Chilliwack River, British Columbia
Authors: Ogston Lindsey , Gidora Sam , Foy Matthew , Rosenfeld Jordan
Published: November 2014

Although billions of dollars have been spent restoring degraded watersheds worldwide, watershed-scale studies evaluating their effectiveness are rare. To mitigate damage from past logging activities, the floodplain of the upper Chilliwack River watershed (∼600 km2) was extensively restored from 1996 to 2000 through off-channel habitat restoration. The contribution of restored habitat to watershed-scale production of wild coho (Oncorhynchus kisutch) smolts was estimated through an extensive mark–recapture program in 2002. 27%–34% of the production of the estimated 247 200 out-migrating coho smolts could be attributed to the 157 000 m2 of newly created habitat. Area-based habitat models from the literature performed reasonably well in predicting smolt production from restored habitat, providing an acceptable first-order approach for evaluating production benefits of restoration. The costs of smolt production integrated over 30 years ranged from US$0.69–US$10.05 per smolt, falling within the range of hatchery production costs reported elsewhere (typical cost of ∼US$1.00 per smolt) at the most cost-effective restoration sites. This study demonstrates that large-scale habitat restoration can effectively enhance fish production at a watershed scale, at a cost that may be comparable to hatchery smolt production.
Foliar bacterial communities of trembling aspen in a common garden
Authors: Mason Charles J. , Pfammatter Jesse A. , Holeski Liza M. , Raffa Kenneth F.
Published: November 2014

Microbial associations with plants are widely distributed and are structured by a number of biotic and physical factors. Among biotic factors, the host plant genotype may be integral to these plant–microbe interactions. Trees in the genus Populus have become models for studies in scaling effects of host plant genetics and in plant–microbe interactions. Using 454 pyrosequencing of the 16S rRNA gene, we assessed the foliar bacterial community of 7 genotypes of mature trembling aspen trees (Populus tremuloides Michx.) grown in a common garden. Trees were selected based on prior analyses showing clonal variation in their concentration of chemicals conferring resistance against insect herbivores. At broad taxonomic designations, the bacterial community of trembling aspen was similar across all plant genotypes. At a finer taxonomic scale, the foliage of these trees varied in their community composition, but there was no distinct pattern to colonization or abundance related to plant genotype. The most abundant operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were classified as Ralstonia, Bradyrhizobium, Pseudomonas, and Brucella. These OTUs varied across the common garden, but there was no significant effect of host plant genotype or spatial position on the abundance of these members. Our results suggest that aspen genotype is less important in the structuring of its foliar bacterial communities than are other, poorly understood processes.
Bubble instability in overheated liquid Helium-3
Authors: Kolomietz V. M.
Published: November 2014

The generation and the growth of vapor bubbles in metastable liquid Helium-3 are studied. The finite diffuse layer of vapor bubble, the temperature dependence of the surface tension and the relaxation processes are taken into consideration. We show that the growth of bubble in overheated liquid Helium-3 is significantly influenced by the memory effects caused by the dynamic Fermi-surface distortions. In particular, the increase of bubble is strongly hindered and accompanied by the characteristic oscillations of the bubble radius. The oscillations of the bubble radius disappear in a short relaxation-time limit where the memory effects are negligible.
Horodeckis criterion of separability of mixed states in von Neumann and C*-algebras
Authors: Miller Marek , Olkiewicz Robert
Published: November 2014

The Horodeckis necessary and sufficient condition of separability of mixed states is generalized to arbitrary composite quantum systems.
Molecular dynamics simulation on the interfacial features of supercritical 1-butene/subcritical water
Authors: Zheng Huidong , Chen Jingjing , Wu Fangdi , Zhao Suying
Published: November 2014

We studied the interfacial features of 1-butene/water and extraction process of 2-butanol by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The infinite dilute diffusion coefficients of 1-butene in water is larger than that of 2-butanol, and one important reason is that 2-butanol molecules can form hydrogen bonds with water molecules. 1-butene is more soluble in water under supercritical condition than that under subcritical condition. 1-butene under supercritical condition can extract more 2-butanol from aqueous solution than that under other conditions. A process of producing 2-butanol by the direct hydration of 1-butene is more competive when it operates under the supercritical conditions of 1-butene which due to a higher solubility of 1-butene in water, a larger diffusion coefficient of 1-butene and a lower 2-butanol concentration in water.
Giant isothermal entropy change In (111)-oriented PMN–PT thin film
Authors: Hamad Mahmoud A.
Published: November 2014

An isothermal entropy change of 240 nm (111)-oriented PMN–PT 65/35 film near the ferroelectric Curie temperature, relative cooling power (RCP) and change of heat capacity have been investigated. The extracted data characterized giant isothermal entropy change of more than 16 J/kg K in electric field shift ΔE of 455 kV cm-1, which is nearly twice than that found for PbZr 0.95 Ti 0.05 O 3 thin film at 492 kV cm-1 near the Curie point. Furthermore, the RCP ≈ 700 J/kg and change of heat capacity ≈ 233 J/kg K in electric field shift ΔE of 747 kV cm-1.
Archaean granulite-facies paragneisses from central Swaziland: inferences on Palaeoarchaean crustal reworking and a complex metamorphic history
Authors: Suhr Nils , Hoffmann J. Elis , Kröner Alfred , Schröder Sebastian
Published: November 2014

We present a petrographic, petrological, geochemical, and geochronological study (U–Pb/Lu–Hf) on granulite-facies paragneisses of the Mahamba Gneiss Complex in central Swaziland, eastern Kaapvaal Craton. Our data suggest that prograde metamorphism occurred at
c
. 3.07 Ga. Dating of detrital zircons of a metapelite in combination with geochronological and ambiguous structural relationships with granitoid gneisses suggests two possible scenarios: (1) the time of deposition of the sedimentary protoliths is prior to
c
. 3.58 Ga; (2)
c
. 3.58 Ga granitoid crust was the basement for the sedimentary protoliths. Furthermore, enrichment in Ni and Cr in the Mahamba metasediments may originate from erosion of a greenstone terrane similar in composition to the dominantly mafic and ultramafic lithologies of the Barberton Greenstone Belt or Dwalile supracrustal belt. Evidence for an older crustal basement is provided by the oldest detrital zircons, which yield ages up to
c
. 3.7 Ga. Because the metamorphic conditions of metapelitic rocks have no similarity to
P–T
paths of modern subduction–collision tectonic settings we conclude that the metamorphic history of the Mahamba Gneiss Complex cannot be explained by this model. We propose that deformation and metamorphism occurred through intracratonic contraction and a thermal event possibly related to Mpuluzi batholith emplacement.

Supplementary material:

Sample localities, mineral chemistry, analytical methods, and mineral equilibria modelling method are available at
www.geolsoc.org.uk/SUP18786
.
TNF-α-mediated cardiorenal injury after rhabdomyolysis in rats
Authors: Homsi Eduardo , Andreazzi Diego Duarte , Faria Jose Butori Lopes de , Janino Patrícia
Published: November 2014

The TNF-α serum level increases after rhabdomyolysis and is involved in the subsequent cardiorenal injury. In the present study, we investigated the TNF-α-dependent cell signaling pathways implicated in cellular injury in these organs. Rhabdomyolysis was induced by intramuscular glycerol injection in rats. Renal function, cardiac and renal pathology, and activation of caspases were evaluated during the first 24 h after glycerol injection. TNF-α blockade with infliximab reduced tubular necrosis and cardiorenal apoptosis. Cellular Fas-associated protein with death domain-like IL-1β-converting enzyme inhibitory protein (cFLIP), an inhibitor of caspase-8, was overexpressed in the kidney but not in the heart. The inhibitory effect of cFLIP blunted caspase-8 activation in the kidney. In this condition, the cellular response to the TNF-α stimulus was driven to receptor-interacting protein-1 (RIP1)-mediated necroptosis. Treatment with RIP1 inhibitor (necrostatin-1) isolated or in combination with infliximab showed a similar reduction in tubular necrosis, underscoring the importance of TNF-α-mediated tubular necroptosis in this model. TNF-α played a positive regulatory role in the transcription of proapoptotic Bax and p53-upregulated modulator of apoptosis (PUMA) proteins. Infliximab treatment reduced caspase-9-mediated apoptosis in both organs. Treatment with a caspase-8 inhibitor showed that caspase-8 participated in the process of apoptosis only in the heart, upstream of caspase-9 activation. TNF-α-mediated necroptosis is the predominant form of tubular injury observed in the glycerol model. TNF-α up regulates Bax and PUMA proapoptotic proteins, resulting in activation of the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis in the kidney and heart.
Transient activity in monkey area MT represents speed changes and is correlated with human behavioral performance
Authors: Traschütz Andreas , Kreiter Andreas K. , Wegener Detlef
Published: November 2014

Neurons in the middle temporal area (MT) respond to motion onsets and speed changes with a transient-sustained firing pattern. The latency of the transient response has recently been shown to correlate with reaction time in a speed change detection task, but it is not known how the sign, the amplitude, and the latency of this response depend on the sign and the magnitude of a speed change, and whether these transients can be decoded to explain speed change detection behavior. To investigate this issue, we measured the neuronal representation of a wide range of positive and negative speed changes in area MT of fixating macaques and obtained three major findings. First, speed change transients not only reflect a neuron's absolute speed tuning but are shaped by an additional gain that scales the tuned response according to the magnitude of a relative speed change. Second, by means of a threshold model positive and negative population transients of a moderate number of MT neurons explain detection of both positive and negative speed changes, respectively, at a level comparable to human detection rates under identical visual stimulation. Third, like reaction times in a psychophysical model of velocity detection, speed change response latencies follow a power-law function of the absolute difference of a speed change. Both this neuronal representation and its close correlation with behavioral measures of speed change detection suggest that neuronal transients in area MT facilitate the detection of rapid changes in visual input.
Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Peer Education in Improving HIV Knowledge, Attitude, and Sexual Behaviours among In-School Adolescents in Osun State, Nigeria
Authors: Adeomi Adeleye Abiodun , Adeoye Oluwatosin Adediran , Asekun-Olarinmoye Esther Olufunmilayo , Abodunrin Olugbemiga Lanre , Olugbenga-Bello Adenike Iyanuoluwa , Sabageh Adedayo Olukemi
Published: November 2014

Introduction. Young people are at the centre of the global HIV/AIDS epidemic. This study therefore aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of peer education in improving HIV knowledge, attitude, and preventive practices among in-school adolescents in Osun State, Nigeria.Methods. This was an intervention study that was carried out among in-school adolescents attending mixed secondary schools in Osun State, Nigeria. The study was in three stages: before intervention, intervention, and after intervention. The impact of peer education was evaluated twelve weeks after intervention. Data were collected using pretested semistructured questionnaires and data analysis was done with SPSS version 16.Results. At the preintervention stage, the study and control groups were similar in their sociodemographic characteristics, HIV knowledge, attitude, and preventive practices, including high risk behaviours for HIV/AIDS transmission. After the peer education intervention, those with good knowledge and positive attitudes towards HIV/AIDS increased significantly from 50.0% to 86.7% and from 49.0% to 85.6%, respectively (P<0.05).Conclusion. The study showed that peer education is effective in improving knowledge, attitude, and some preventive practices towards HIV/AIDS among in-school adolescents. Educational programmes about HIV/AIDS should therefore be designed to target this age group putting into consideration their unique characteristics.
The Effect of Different Disinfecting Agents on Bond Strength of Resin Composites
Authors: Mohammed Hassan Ahmed , Ali Goda Ahmed , Baroudi Kusai
Published: November 2014

Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different disinfectant agents on bond strength of two types of resin composite materials.Methods. A total of 80 sound posterior teeth were used. They were divided into four groups(n=20)according to the dentin surface pretreatment (no treatment, chlorhexidine gluconate 2%, sodium hypochlorite 4%, and EDTA 19%). Each group was divided into two subgroups according to the type of adhesive (prime and bond 2.1 and Adper easy one). Each subgroup was further divided into two subgroups according to the type of resin composite (TPH spectrum and Tetric EvoCeram). Shear bond strength between dentin and resin composite was measured using Universal Testing Machine. Data collected were statistically analyzed byt-test and one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’spost hoctest.Results. It was found that dentin treated with EDTA recorded the highest shear bond strength values followed by sodium hypochlorite and then chlorhexidine groups while the control group showed the lowest shear bond strength.Conclusions. The surface treatment of dentin before bonding application has a great effect on shear bond strength between resin composite and dentin surface.
A Case of Pulmonary Sarcoma with Significant Extension into the Right Lung
Authors: Inoue Yoshiaki , Izumi Yotaro , Sakaki Kenjiro , Abe Keiko , Oka Teruaki , Tamaru Jun-Ichi , Sugiyama Ato , Aoki Kohei , Fukuda Hiroki , Gika Masatoshi , Imanaka Kazuhito , Nakayama Mitsuo
Published: November 2014

A female patient in her 30s was referred to us with a mass approximately 8 centimeters in diameter in right lung segment 6. Bronchoscopy was done, and a tumorous lesion obstructing right B6 was found. Biopsy of this lesion supported suspicions of sarcoma or spindle cell carcinoma. Contrast-enhanced CT showed that the mass extended to and obstructed the right main pulmonary artery. A skip lesion was also suspected in the periphery of pulmonary artery trunk. The tumor was removed by right pneumonectomy accompanied by resection of the main and left pulmonary arteries under cardiopulmonary bypass. The pulmonary artery trunk and the left pulmonary artery were reconstructed with a vascular graft. Collectively, intimal sarcoma originating from the right main pulmonary artery with extension into the right lung was diagnosed. Significant extension of pulmonary artery sarcoma into the lung, as was observed in the present case, is considered to be rare, and to our knowledge this is the first report in which the primary lesion was biopsied by bronchoscopy.
Stress-Strain Compression of AA6082-T6 Aluminum Alloy at Room Temperature
Authors: Scari Alexandre da Silva , Pockszevnicki Bruno Cesar , Landre Junior Jánes , Magalhaes Junior Pedro Americo Almeida
Published: November 2014

Short cylindrical specimens made of AA6082-T6 aluminum alloy were studied experimentally (compression tests), analytically (normalized Cockcroft-Latham criteria—nCL), and numerically (finite element analysis—FEA). The mechanical properties were determined with the stress-strain curves by the Hollomon equation. The elastic modulus obtained experimentally differs from the real value, as expected, and it is also explained. Finite element (FE) analysis was carried out with satisfactory correlation to the experimental results, as it differs about 1,5% from the damage analysis by the nCL concerning the experimental data obtained by compression tests.
Neuropsychological Profiles and Behavioral Ratings in ADHD Overlap Only in the Dimension of Syndrome Severity
Authors: Takács Ádám , Kóbor Andrea , Tárnok Zsanett , Vargha András
Published: November 2014

Objectives. The aim of this study was to compare the cognitive neuropsychological and the behavioral rating profiles of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Methods. Forty-two children diagnosed with ADHD (M=11.5  years, SD=1.1) and 43 typically developing children (M=11.2 years, SD=1.7) participated. We measured symptom severity with behavioral rating scales, and we administered neuropsychological tasks to measure inhibitory performance, updating/working memory, and shifting ability. Results. On the basis of the three neuropsychological variables, the hierarchical cluster analytic method yielded a six-cluster structure. The clusters, according to the severity of the impairment, were labeled as follows: none or few symptoms, Moderate inhibition and mild shifting, moderate to severe shifting with moderate updating, moderate updating, severe updating with mild shifting, and severe updating with severe shifting. There were no systematic differences in inattention and hyperactive-impulsive behavior across the clusters. The comorbid learning disorder appeared more likely only in severe neuropsychological forms of ADHD. Conclusion. In sum, our results suggest that behavioral ratings and neuropsychological profiles converge only in the dimension of symptom severity and that atypicalities in executive functions may manifest in nonspecific everyday problems.
A Non‐Markovian Multistage Batch Arrival Queue with Breakdown and Reneging
Authors: Maragathasundari Sivagnanasundararam , Srinivasan Santhanagopalan
Published: November 2014

The present investigation deals with analysis of non‐Markovian queueing model with multistage of services. When the server is unavailable during the system breakdown (or) vacation periods, we consider reneging to prevail. Supplementary variable techniques have been adopted to obtain steady state system length distributions. The numerical illustrations are provided to validate the tractability of performance measures as far as computational aspect is concerned. Numerical results in the form of graphical representation are also presented. Practical large scale industry applications are described to justify our model.
Managing a Rivaroxaban Bleed: Understanding the Difficulties in Acute Reversal of the New Oral Anticoagulants through a Case Report
Authors: Nannapaneni Naveen , Singh Robby , Mckay Paulina , Al-Hajeili Marwan
Published: November 2014

With the arrival of a new generation of oral anticoagulants significant burdens associated with warfarin’s use on both the patient and the healthcare system have been alleviated. Nevertheless, a shortfall exists in regard to an agent or protocol for reversal of these new anticoagulants in the setting of an acute bleed. Our case of a patient presenting to the hospital with a vaginal bleed while on rivaroxaban highlights the difficulty in management without a clear protocol or agent for reversal of anticoagulation.
Effect of Da‐Cheng‐Qi Decoction on the Repair of the Injured Enteric Nerve‐Interstitial Cells of Cajal‐Smooth Muscle Cells Network in Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome
Authors: Liu Mu-Cang , Xie Ming-Zheng , Ma Bin , Qi Qing-Hui
Published: November 2014

Wistar rats were randomly divided into control group, multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) group, and Da‐Cheng‐Qi decoction (DCQD) group. The network of enteric nerves‐interstitial cells of Cajal‐ (ICC‐) smooth muscle cells (SMC) in small intestine was observed using confocal laser scanning microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The results showed that the numbers of cholinergic/nitriergic nerves, and the deep muscular plexus of ICC (ICC‐DMP) and connexin43 (Cx43) in small intestine with MODS were significantly decreased. The network integrity of enteric nerves‐ICC‐SMC was disrupted. The ultrastructures of ICC‐DMP, enteric nerves, and SMC were severely damaged. After treatment with DCQD, the damages were repaired and the network integrity of enteric nerves ICC‐SMC was significantly recovered. In conclusion, the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal motility dysfunction in MODS in part may be due to the damages to enteric nerves‐ICC‐SMC network and gap junctions. The therapeutic mechanism of DCQD in part may be that it could repair the damages and maintain the integrity of enteric nerves ICC‐SMC network.
Stable Numerical Evaluation of Finite Hankel Transforms and Their Application
Authors: Tripathi Manoj P. , Singh B. P. , Singh Om P.
Published: November 2014

A new stable algorithm, based on hat functions for numerical evaluation of Hankel transform of order ν>-1, is proposed in this paper. The hat basis functions are used as a basis to expand a part of the integrand, rf(r), appearing in the Hankel transform integral. This leads to a very simple, efficient, and stable algorithm for the numerical evaluation of Hankel transform. The novelty of our paper is that we give error and stability analysis of the algorithm and corroborate our theoretical findings by various numerical experiments. Finally, an application of the proposed algorithm is given for solving the heat equation in an infinite cylinder with a radiation condition.
Meiotic Studies in Some Species of Tribe Cichorieae (Asteraceae) from Western Himalayas
Authors: Gupta Raghbir Chand , Goyal Henna , Singh Vijay , Goel Rajesh Kumar
Published: November 2014

The present paper deals with meiotic studies in 15 species belonging to 6 genera of the tribe Cichorieae from various localities of Western Himalayas. The chromosome number has been reported for the first time inHieracium crocatum(2n=10) andLactuca lessertiana(2n=2x=16). Further, intraspecific variability has been reported for the first time inH. umbellatum(2n=2x=10and2n=6x=54),Tragopogon dubius(2n=2x=14and2n=4x=28), andT. gracilis(2n=2x=14). The chromosome report of2n=2x=10inYoungia tenuifoliais made for the first time in India. Maximum numbers of the populations show laggards, chromosome stickiness, and cytomixis from early prophase to telophase-II, leading to the formation of aneuploid cells or meiocytes with double chromosome number. Such meiotic abnormalities produce unreduced pollen grains and the reduced pollen viability.
The Anti-Acetylcholine Receptor Antibody Test in Suspected Ocular Myasthenia Gravis
Authors: Lee Jung Jin , Koh Kyung Min , Kim Ungsoo Samuel
Published: November 2014

Aim. To estimate the clinical significance of anti-acetylcholine receptor antibody (anti-AChR-Ab) levels in suspected ocular myasthenia gravis.Methods. In total, 144 patients complaining of fluctuating diplopia and ptosis were evaluated for serum levels of anti-acetylcholine receptor antibody and their medical charts were retrospectively reviewed. Subjects were classified into three groups: variable diplopia only, ptosis only, and both variable diplopia and ptosis. We investigated serum anti-AChR-Ab titer levels and performed thyroid autoantibody tests.Results. Patients’ chief complaints were diplopia (N=103), ptosis (N=12), and their concurrence (N=29). Abnormal anti-AChR-Ab was observed in 21 of 144 patients (14.1%). Between the three groups, mean age, number of seropositive patients, and mean anti-AChR-Ab level were not significantly different (P=0.224, 0.073, and 0.062, resp.). Overall, 27.5% of patients had abnormal thyroid autoantibodies.Conclusion. The sensitivity of anti-AChR-Ab was 14.1% in suspected ocular myasthenia gravis and seropositivity in myasthenia gravis patients showed a high correlation with the presence of thyroid autoantibodies.
Use of a Combined Technology of Ultrasonication, Three-Phase Partitioning, and Aqueous Enzymatic Oil Extraction for the Extraction of Oil fromSpirogyrasp.
Authors: Reddy Adisheshu , Majumder Abir B.
Published: November 2014

Algal oil fromSpirogyrasp. was extracted using a combined technology of ultrasonication, three-phase partitioning, and aqueous enzymatic oil extraction. Ultrasonication was done to rupture the cell wall and papain was used for an easier release of the trapped oil. The salt concentration for three-phase partitioning, preincubation period with (or without) the protease, and its operational temperature were optimized for a maximum possible yield of the oil and the effect of ultrasonication, and three-phase partitioning with (or without) the protease were studied. It was found that under optimized conditions at 50% ammonium sulphate concentration usingtert-butanol (in 1 : 1, v/v ratio) a presonicated and papain treated algal suspension could produce 24% (w/w, dry weight) oil within few hours which was ten times higher as compared to the oil obtained by Soxhlet extraction using hexane and two times higher than the oil obtained without using the protease.
Macroscopic and Microscopic Mechanisms of Cement-Stabilized Soft Clay Mixed with Seawater by Adding Ultrafine Silica Fume
Authors: Li Qiang , Chen Jie , Shi Qian , Zhao Shihao
Published: November 2014

The strength of the cement-stabilized soil can be improved by the use of seawater. Compressive strength test results show that the strength of cement-stabilized soil mixed with seawater is 50% greater than that mixed with freshwater at the 90th day. However, the application is limited because the expansion of the cement-stabilized soil mixed with seawater increases significantly. A kind of ultrafine silica fume was added into the cement-stabilized soil to inhibit swelling of the cement-stabilized soil with seawater. The expansion of cement-stabilized soil mixed with seawater by adding ultrafine silica fume is close to that of cement-stabilized soil mixed with freshwater. With the addition of ultrafine silica fume, the unconfined compressive strength increases by close to 6.5% compared with seawater alone at the 90th day. The mechanisms of adding ultrafine silica fume into the cement-stabilized soil mixed with seawater are revealed by several physical and chemical characterization parameters, such as specific gravity, unbound water content, surface morphology seen with SEM, and crystal products by X-ray diffraction tests. The results show that the crystal growth is an important factor, affecting the strength and expansion of cement-stabilized soil mixed with seawater.
Conservation Laws for a Degasperis Procesi Equation and a Coupled Variable-Coefficient Modified Korteweg-de Vries System in a Two-Layer Fluid Model via the Multiplier Approach
Authors: Osman E. , Khalfallah M. , Sapoor H.
Published: November 2014

We employ the multiplier approach (variational derivative method) to derive the conservation laws for the Degasperis Procesi equation and a coupled variable-coefficient modified Korteweg-de Vries system in a two-layer fluid model. Firstly, the multipliers are computed and then conserved vectors are obtained for each multiplier.
Mental Health Nurses’ Experiences of Caring for Patients Suffering from Self-Harm
Authors: Tofthagen Randi , Talseth Anne-Grethe , Fagerström Lisbeth
Published: November 2014

The aim of this study was to explore mental health nurses’ experiences of caring for inpatients who self-harm during an acute phase. The setting was four psychiatric clinics in Norway. Fifteen mental health nurses (MHNs) were recruited. Semistructured interviews comprised the method for data collection, with content analysis used for data analysis. Two main categories emerged: challenging and collaborative nurse-patient relationship and promoting well-being through nursing interventions. The underlying meaning of the main categories was interpreted and formulated as a latent theme: promoting person-centered care to patients suffering from self-harm. How MHNs promote care for self-harm patients can be described as a person-centered nursing process. MHNs, through the creation of a collaborative nurse-patient relationship, reflect upon nursing interventions and seek to understand each unique patient. The implication for clinical practice is that MHNs are in a position where they can promote patients’ recovery processes, by offering patients alternative activities and by working in partnership with patients to promote their individual strengths and life knowledge. MHNs strive to help patients find new ways of living with their problems. The actual study highlighted that MHNs use different methods and strategies when promoting the well-being of self-harm patients.
Favourable Experience with M-Mode Sonography in the Diagnosis of Pneumothorax in Two Patients with Thoracic Subcutaneous Emphysema
Authors: Berlet T. , Etter R.
Published: November 2014

Introduction. Thoracic subcutaneous emphysema may be caused by various pathologies. In mechanically ventilated patients, timely diagnostic workup is particularly important, as the presence of subcutaneous surgical emphysema may indicate pneumothorax, representing a risk factor for the development of life threatening tension pneumothorax. Thoracic ultrasound is of proven value for the detection of pneumothorax but has so far been considered of little value in the context of subcutaeneous emphysema, due to poor visibility of anatomic structures.Case Presentation. We present the successful use of diagnostic M-mode sonography in two mechanically ventilated patients who developed thoracic subcutaneous emphysema. In both cases B-mode sonography was inconclusive.Conclusion. M-mode sonography may be more sensitive than B-mode sonography in the detection of lung sliding and could become a useful diagnostic tool when pneumothorax needs to be ruled in or ruled out and visibility of the pleura is limited.
Circumvallate Placenta: Associated Clinical Manifestations and Complications—A Retrospective Study
Authors: Taniguchi Hanako , Aoki Shigeru , Sakamaki Kentaro , Kurasawa Kentaro , Okuda Mika , Takahashi Tsuneo , Hirahara Fumiki
Published: November 2014

Aims.To analyze the pregnancy outcomes of circumvallate placenta retrospectively and to predict circumvallate placenta during pregnancy based on its clinical features.Methods.The pregnancy outcomes of 92 women with circumvallate placenta who delivered live singletons at a tertiary care center between January 2000 and September 2012 were compared with those of 9057 controls.Results.Women with circumvallate placenta were associated with higher incidences of preterm delivery (64.1%), placental abruption (10.9%), emergency cesarean section (45.6%), small-for-gestational age (36.9%), neonatal death (8.9%), neonatal intensive care unit admission (55.4%), and chronic lung disease (33.9%). When vaginal bleeding during the second trimester and premature chemical rupture of membranes (PCROM) were both used as predictive factors for circumvallate placenta, the sensitivity was 28.8% and specificity was 99.9%.Conclusion.With circumvallate placenta, pregnancy outcomes were poor and had characteristic clinical manifestations. In women with both vaginal bleeding and PCROM during pregnancy, circumvallate placenta should be strongly suspected.
Gender and Stress in Predicting Depressive Symptoms Following Stroke
Authors: Mazure Carolyn M. , Weinberger Andrea H. , Pittman Brian , Sibon Igor , Swendsen Joel
Published: November 2014

Background: Post-stroke depression (PSD) is associated with poor clinical and functional outcomes, and women are likely to experience PSD more than men. Although stress is related to depression, and women report greater emotional reactivity to stressful life events, the link between stress and gender is yet to be examined relative to PSD. Further, electronic momentary assessment (EMA), a mobile technology, has not been used to assess stressful life events and PSD in real time and in the natural environments of daily life. The purpose of the current study was to examine gender differences in the relationship of stress and PSD using EMA. Methods: Individuals admitted to the Stroke Center at the University of Bordeaux were contacted for participation in a prospective study of symptoms and experiences in daily life using ambulatory monitoring. Forty-three post-stroke patients (47% female) completed electronic assessments of life events, perceived stress, and depressive symptoms (i.e., sad mood, anhedonia, fatigue, concentration difficulties, appetite change, negative thoughts, hopelessness) during their daily life for one week. Patients also completed a clinician-administered standardized depression scale at baseline and three-month follow-up. Results: Using EMA, participants responded to 83.7% of the electronic interviews for a total of 1,140 observations across diverse daily life contexts. Stressful events of any degree of negativity were reported at over one-third (37.3%) of all EMA assessments. The severity of depressive symptoms as assessed in daily life through EMA was greater in women following stroke than in men. Further, there was a significant association between EMA-assessed depressive symptoms and daily life stress for women, but not men. This association was due primarily to three specific depressive symptoms: sad mood, fatigue, and appetite change. No difference was observed between men and women in standardized depression assessments administered during clinic visits at baseline or three-month follow-up. Conclusions: Greater reactivity to stressful life events and a link between stress reactivity and depressive symptoms were found in female as compared to male post-stroke patients. Gender differences in depressive symptoms were identified using EMA data collected during daily life as contrasted with the use of a standard assessment during clinic visits. Mobile technologies may help to identify important real-time behaviors and symptoms that are not observable by standard clinical assessments employed at regular clinic visits. Further, future research should examine the overall and gender-specific benefits of stress-based interventions to reduce the risk of PSD for adults.
Thrombin generation and low-molecular-weight heparin prophylaxis in pregnant women with thrombophilia
Authors: Selmeczi Anna , Roach Rachel E. J. , Móré Csaba , Batta Zoltán , Hársfalvi Jolán , Bom van der Johanna G. , Boda Zoltán , Oláh Zsolt
Published: November 2014

Pregnancy is associated with increased risk of venous thromboembolism, especially in the presence of thrombophilia. However, there is no consensus on the optimal approach for thromboprophylaxis in this population. Recent evidence suggests that thrombin generation correlates with the overall procoagulant state of the plasma. Our aim was to evaluate thrombin generation in a prospective cohort of thrombophilic pregnant women, and investigate the effectiveness of low-molecular- weight heparin (LMWH) prophylaxis in pregnancy. Women with severe (n=8), mild (n=47) and no (n=15) thrombophilia were followed throughout their pregnancies. Thrombin generation was evaluated in each trimester as well as five days and eight weeks postpartum (as a reference category). In women undergoing LMWH prophylaxis, thrombin generation and anti-Factor-Xa activity were measured just before and 4 hours after administration (peak effect). Thrombin generation was determined using Technothrombin TGA assay system. For the analysis, median peak thrombin and endogenous thrombin potential were used. Peak thrombin and endogenous thrombin potential were increased during pregnancy compared to the non-pregnant state with the highest results in the severe thrombophilia group. In women receiving LMWH prophylaxis a decrease was observed in thrombin generation at peak effect but over the progression of pregnancy the extent of this decrease reduced in a stepwise fashion. Our results show that thrombin generation demonstrates the hypercoagulable state in thrombophilic pregnancies. In addition, we found the effect of LMWH prophylaxis to progressively decrease with advancing stages of pregnancy.
Serum NOX2 and urinary isoprostanes predict vascular events in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Carnevale Roberto , Farcomeni Alessio , Cangemi Roberto , Nocella Cristina , Bartimoccia Simona , Vicario Tommasa , Saliola Mirella , Lip Gregory , Pignatelli Pasquale , Pastori Daniele , Violi Francesco
Published: November 2014

There are limited prospective data evaluating the role of urinary F2-IsoP and NOX2 as predictive markers in atrial fibrillation (AF). The aim of this study was to analyse the role of urinary prostaglandin PGF2alpha (8-iso-PGF2α) and NOX2, markers of systemic oxidative stress, in predicting cardiovascular (CV) events and mortality in anticoagulated non-valvular AF patients. This was a prospective study including 1,002 anticoagulated AF patients, followed for a median time of 25.7 months (interquartile range: 14.8–50.9). All major CV events, CV deaths and all-cause deaths were considered as primary outcomes of the study. CV events included fatal/nonfatal ischaemic stroke, fatal/ nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI), cardiac revascularisation and transient ischaemic attack (TIA). Oxidative stress biomarkers, such as urinary 8-iso-PGF2α and serum sNOX2-dp, a marker of NOX2 activation, were measured. A CV event occurred in 125 patients (12.5 %); 78 CV deaths and 31 non-CV deaths were registered. 8-iso-PGF2α and sNOX2-dp were correlated (Rs=0.765 p> 0.001). A significant increased cumulative incidence of CV events and CV deaths was observed across tertiles for 8-iso-PGF2α and sNOX2-dp. An increased rate of all-cause death was observed across tertiles of urinary 8-iso-PGF2α.In Cox or Fine and Gray models, 8-iso-PGF2α predicted CV events and CV and non-CV deaths. The addition of tertiles of 8-iso-PGF2α to CHA2DS2-VASc score improved ROC curves for each outcome and NRI for CV events (0.24 [0.06–0.53] p=0.0067). The study shows that in AF patients 8-iso-PGF2α and NOX2 levels are predictive of CV events and total mortality. F2-IsoP may complement conventional risk factors in prediction of CV events.

Note: The review process for this manuscript was fully handled by Christian Weber, Editor in Chief. Clinical Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01882114.