bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antimicrobial Susceptibility ofEscherichia coliIsolated from Fresh-Marketed Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: Rocha Rafael dos Santos , Leite Lana Oliveira , Sousa Oscarina Viana de , Vieira Regine Helena Silva dos Fernandes
Published: April 2014

The contamination of seafood by bacteria of fecal origin, especiallyEscherichia coli, is a widely documented sanitary problem. The objective of the present study was to isolateE. colistrains from the gills, muscle, and body surface of farmed Nile tilapias (Oreochromis niloticus) fresh-marketed in supermarkets in Fortaleza (Ceará, Brazil), to determine their susceptibility to antibiotics of different families (amikacin, gentamicin, imipenem, cephalothin, cefotaxime, ciprofloxacin, aztreonam, ampicillin, nalidixic acid, tetracycline, and sulfametoxazol-trimetoprim), and to determine the nature of resistance by plasmid curing. Forty-four strains (body surface = 25, gills = 15, muscle = 4) were isolated, all of which were susceptible to amikacin, aztreonam, cefotaxime, ciprofloxacin, gentamicin, and imipenem. Gill and body surface samples yielded 11 isolates resistant to ampicillin, tetracycline, and sulfametoxazol-trimetoprim, 4 of which of plasmidial nature. The multiple antibiotic resistance index was higher for strains isolated from body surface than from gills. The overall high antibiotic susceptibility ofE. colistrains isolated from fresh-marketed tilapia was satisfactory, although the occasional finding of plasmidial resistance points to the need for close microbiological surveillance of the farming, handling, and marketing conditions of aquaculture products.
Glycosaminoglycan Monosaccharide Blocks Analysis by Quantum Mechanics, Molecular Dynamics, and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance
Authors: Samsonov Sergey A. , Theisgen Stephan , Riemer Thomas , Huster Daniel , Pisabarro M. Teresa
Published: April 2014

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) play an important role in many biological processes in the extracellular matrix. In a theoretical approach, structures of monosaccharide building blocks of natural GAGs and their sulfated derivatives were optimized by a B3LYP6311ppdd//B3LYP/6-31+G(d) method. The dependence of the observed conformational properties on the applied methodology is described. NMR chemical shifts and proton-proton spin-spin coupling constants were calculated using the GIAO approach and analyzed in terms of the method's accuracy and sensitivity towards the influence of sulfation, O1-methylation, conformations of sugar ring, andωdihedral angle. The net sulfation of the monosaccharides was found to be correlated with the1H chemical shifts in the methyl group of the N-acetylated saccharides both theoretically and experimentally. Theωdihedral angle conformation populations of free monosaccharides and monosaccharide blocks within polymeric GAG molecules were calculated by a molecular dynamics approach using the GLYCAM06 force field and compared with the available NMR and quantum mechanical data. Qualitative trends for the impact of sulfation and ring conformation on the chemical shifts and proton-proton spin-spin coupling constants were obtained and discussed in terms of the potential and limitations of the computational methodology used to be complementary to NMR experiments and to assist in experimental data assignment.
Evaluation of Drought Tolerance of the Vietnamese Soybean Cultivars Provides Potential Resources for Soybean Production and Genetic Engineering
Authors: Thu Nguyen Binh Anh , Nguyen Quang Thien , Hoang Xuan Lan Thi , Thao Nguyen Phuong , Tran Lam-Son Phan
Published: April 2014

Drought is one of the greatest constraints to soybean production in many countries, including Vietnam. Although a wide variety of the newly produced cultivars have been produced recently in Vietnam through classical breeding to cope with water shortage, little knowledge of their molecular and physiological responses to drought has been discovered. This study was conducted to quickly evaluate drought tolerance of thirteen local soybean cultivars for selection of the best drought-tolerant cultivars for further field test. Differences in drought tolerance of cultivars were assessed by root and shoot lengths, relative water content, and drought-tolerant index under both normal and drought conditions. Our data demonstrated that DT51 is the strongest drought-tolerant genotype among all the tested cultivars, while the highest drought-sensitive phenotype was observed with MTD720. Thus, DT51 could be subjected to further yield tests in the field prior to suggesting it for use in production. Due to their contrasting drought-tolerant phenotypes, DT51 and MTD720 provide excellent genetic resources for further studies underlying mechanisms regulating drought responses and gene discovery. Our results provide vital information to support the effort of molecular breeding and genetic engineering to improve drought tolerance of soybean.
Wavelets and Morphological Operators Based Classification of Epilepsy Risk Levels
Authors: Rajaguru Harikumar , Thangavel Vijayakumar
Published: April 2014

The objective of this paper is to compare the performance of Singular Value Decomposition (SVD), Expectation Maximization (EM), and Modified Expectation Maximization (MEM) as the postclassifiers for classifications of the epilepsy risk levels obtained from extracted features through wavelet transforms and morphological filters from EEG signals. The code converter acts as a level one classifier. The seven features such as energy, variance, positive and negative peaks, spike and sharp waves, events, average duration, and covariance are extracted from EEG signals, out of which four parameters like positive and negative peaks, spike and sharp waves, events, and average duration are extracted using Haar, dB2, dB4, and Sym8 wavelet transforms with hard and soft thresholding methods. The above said four features are also extracted through morphological filters. The performance of the code converter and classifiers are compared based on the parameters such as Performance Index (PI) and Quality Value (QV). The Performance Index and Quality Value of code converters are at low value of 33.26% and 12.74, respectively. The highest PI of 98.03% and QV of 23.82 are attained at dB2 wavelet with hard thresholding method for SVD classifier. All the postclassifiers are settled at PI value of more than 90% at QV of 20.
Molten Globule-Like Partially Folded State ofBacillus licheniformis α-Amylase at Low pH Induced by 1,1,1,3,3,3-Hexafluoroisopropanol
Authors: Abd Halim Adyani Azizah , Zaroog Mohammed Suleiman , Abdul Kadir Habsah , Tayyab Saad
Published: April 2014

Effect of 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP) on acid-denaturedBacillus licheniformis α-amylase (BLA) at pH 2.0 was investigated by far-UV CD, intrinsic fluorescence, and ANS fluorescence measurements. Addition of increasing HFIP concentrations led to an increase in the mean residue ellipticity at 222 nm (MRE222 nm) up to 1.5 M HFIP concentration beyond which it sloped off. A small increase in the intrinsic fluorescence and a marked increase in the ANS fluorescence were also observed up to 0.4 M HFIP concentration, both of which decreased thereafter. Far- and near-UV CD spectra of the HFIP-induced state observed at 0.4 M HFIP showed significant retention of the secondary structures closer to native BLA but a disordered tertiary structure. Increase in the ANS fluorescence intensity was also observed with the HFIP-induced state, suggesting exposure of the hydrophobic clusters to the solvent. Furthermore, thermal denaturation of HFIP-induced state showed a non-cooperative transition. Taken together, all these results suggested that HFIP-induced state of BLA represented a molten globule-like state at pH 2.0.
Sensor Nodes Deployment Strategy for Monitoring Roadside Biomass Carbon Stocks of Tourism Destination: A Case of Wulong World Natural Heritage, China
Authors: Liu Jun , Yang Xi , Liu Hao Long , Qiao Zhi
Published: April 2014

Since the late 1978s, China has experienced one of the highest tourism growth rates in the world, which in turn has driven extensive land‐use and land‐cover change. The aim of this research is to develop a sensor nodes positioning strategy for detecting land use related dynamics of vegetation carbon stocks of Wulong world natural heritage. Based on the assessment of road networks’ influences on biomass carbon stocks, roadside biomass carbon stocks risk index was proposed as a sensor deployment strategy to identify the optimal positions of the sensors to detect the changes in vegetation carbon stocks. Forest and cropland around the lower levels of roads should be the most important region of sensor nodes deployment strategy. The results generated from this study have the ability to achieve optimal solution of spatial positioning problem with minimum number of sensors in biomass carbon monitoring sensor networks. This analysis appears to have great potential for a wide range of practical applications in tourism industry in China.
Genomic and Proteomic Characterization of Bacteriocin-ProducingLeuconostoc mesenteroidesStrains Isolated from Raw Camel Milk in Two Southwest Algerian Arid Zones
Authors: Benmechernene Zineb , Fernández-No Inmaculada , Quintela-Baluja Marcos , Böhme Karola , Kihal Mebrouk , Calo-Mata Pilar , Barros-Velázquez Jorge
Published: April 2014

Information on the microbiology of camel milk is very limited. In this work, the genetic characterization and proteomic identification of 13 putative producing bacteriocinLeuconostocstrains exhibiting antilisterial activity and isolated from camel milk were performed. DNA sequencing of the 13 selected strains revealed high homology among the 16S rRNA genes for all strains. In addition, 99% homology withLeuconostoc mesenteroideswas observed when these sequences were analysed by the BLAST tool against other sequences from reference strains deposited in the Genbank. Furthermore, the isolates were characterized by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDITOF MS) which allowed for the identification of 2 mass peaks 6242 m/z and 5118 m/z that resulted to be specific to the speciesL. mesenteroides. Remarkably, the phyloproteomic tree provided more intraspecific information ofL. mesenteroidesthan phylogenetic analysis. Accordingly, phyloproteomic analysis groupedL. mesenteroidesstrains into different subbranches, while allL. mesenteroidesisolates were grouped in the same branch according to phylogenetic analysis. This study represents, to our knowledge, the first report on the use of MALDI-TOF MS on the identification of LAB isolated from camel milk.
Wideband Microstrip 90° Hybrid Coupler Using High Pass Network
Authors: Chiu Leung
Published: April 2014

A wideband 90° hybrid coupler has been presented and implemented in planar microstrip circuit. With similar structure of conversional 2-section branch-line coupler, the proposed coupler consists of a lumped high-pass network but not the quarter wavelength transmission at the center. The values of all lumped elements were optimized to replace a quarter-wavelength transmission line with a phase inverter. To demonstrate the proposed concept, a 1-GHz prototype was fabricated and tested. It achieves 90% impedance bandwidth with magnitude of S11 less than −10 dB. Within this bandwidth, more than 13 dB port-to-port isolation, less than 5.0 degree phase imbalance, and less than 4.5 dB magnitude imbalance are achieved, simultaneously. The proposed coupler not only achieves much wider bandwidth but also occupies less circuit area than that of the conversional 2-section branch-line coupler.
Au-Loaded Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles Synthesized by Modified Sol-Gel/Impregnation Methods and Their Application to Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Ninsonti Hathaithip , Chomkitichai Weerasak , Baba Akira , Wetchakun Natda , Kangwansupamonkon Wiyong , Phanichphant Sukon , Shinbo Kazunari , Kato Keizo , Kaneko Futao
Published: April 2014

Au-loaded TiO2nanoparticles were synthesized by the modified sol-gel method together with the impregnation method. Anatase phase of TiO2was obtained in all samples with an average particle size of 20 nm. For the enhancement of DSSCs, the dye-sensitized solar cells composed of the ITO/Au-loaded TiO2/N-719/electrolyte/Pt were fabricated. Au-loaded TiO2films were deposited by using squeegee method. Finally, the fabricated cells were studied upon an irradiation of solar light to study the performance. The fabricated cell with up to 1.0 mol% Au-loaded TiO2could enhance the performance by localized surface plasmon effect and scattering property.
A Double‐Parameter GPMHSS Method for a Class of Complex Symmetric Linear Systems from Helmholtz Equation
Authors: Li Cui-Xia , Wu Shi-Liang
Published: April 2014

Based on the preconditioned MHSS (PMHSS) and generalized PMHSS (GPMHSS) methods, a double‐parameter GPMHSS (DGPMHSS) method for solving a class of complex symmetric linear systems from Helmholtz equation is presented. A parameter region of the convergence for DGPMHSS method is provided. From practical point of view, we have analyzed and implemented inexact DGPMHSS (IDGPMHSS) iteration, which employs Krylov subspace methods as its inner processes. Numerical examples are reported to confirm the efficiency of the proposed methods.
The Smoothness of Fractal Interpolation Functions onℝand onp-Series Local Fields
Authors: Li Jing , Su Weiyi
Published: April 2014

A fractal interpolation function on ap-series local fieldKpis defined, and itsp-type smoothness is shown by virtue of the equivalent relationship between the Hölder type spaceCσKpand the Lipschitz class Lipσ,Kp. The orders of thep-type derivatives and the fractal dimensions of the graphs of Weierstrass type function on local fields are given as an example. Theα-fractal function onℝis introduced and the conclusion of its smoothness is improved in a more general case; some examples are shown to support the conclusion. Finally, a comparison between the fractal interpolation functions defined onℝandKpis given.
Eigenstrain Boundary Integral Equations with Local Eshelby Matrix for Stress Analysis of Ellipsoidal Particles
Authors: Ma Hang , Yan Cheng , Qin Qing-hua
Published: April 2014

Aiming at the large scale numerical simulation of particle reinforced materials, the concept of local Eshelby matrix has been introduced into the computational model of the eigenstrain boundary integral equation (BIE) to solve the problem of interactions among particles. The local Eshelby matrix can be considered as an extension of the concepts of Eshelby tensor and the equivalent inclusion in numerical form. Taking the subdomain boundary element method as the control, three‐dimensional stress analyses are carried out for some ellipsoidal particles in full space with the proposed computational model. Through the numerical examples, it is verified not only the correctness and feasibility but also the high efficiency of the present model with the corresponding solution procedure, showing the potential of solving the problem of large scale numerical simulation of particle reinforced materials.
Emission Spectroscopy of OH Radical in Water-Argon Arc Plasma Jet
Authors: Mašláni Alan , Sember Viktor
Published: April 2014

Emission spectra of OH radical are studied in the plasma jet generated by a plasma torch with hybrid water-argon stabilization. Plasma jet is located in a chamber with pressures 4 kPa and 10 kPa. In spite of high temperatures of produced plasma, OH spectra are observed in a large area of the jet. OH spectra are used to obtain rotational temperatures from the Boltzmann plots of resolved rotational lines. Due to line-of-sight integration of radiation, interpretation of the temperatures is not straightforward. It seems that excited OH molecules can be formed by various mechanisms, mainly in the outer parts of the jet, where thermal processes are not as dominant as in the hot central region.
Suxiao Jiuxin Pill Induces Potent Relaxation and Inhibition on Contraction in Human Artery and the Mechanism
Authors: Bai Xiao-Yan , Zhang Ping , Yang Qin , Liu Xiao-Cheng , Wang Jun , Tong Yong-Ling , Xiong Song-Jin , Liu Li-Hua , Wang Lei , He Guo-Wei
Published: April 2014

Suxiao Jiuxin Pill, a compound Chinese traditional medicine with main components of tetramethylpyrazine and borneol, is widely used for antiangina treatment in China but its pharmacological effect on human blood vessels is unknown. We investigated the effect and possible mechanism of SJP in the human internal mammary artery (IMA, n = 78) taken from patients undergoing coronary surgery. SJP caused full relaxation in KCl‐ (99.4 ± 10.5%, n = 6) and U46619‐ (99.9 ± 5.6%, n = 6) contracted IMA. Pretreatment of IMA with plasma concentrations of SJP (1 mg/mL), calculated from the plasma concentration of its major component borneol, significantly depressed the maximal contraction to KCl (from 35.8 ± 6.0 mN to 12.6 ± 5.6 mN, P = 0.03) and U46619 (from 19.4 ± 2.9 mN to 5.7 ± 2.4 mN, P = 0.007) while SJP at 10 mg/mL abolished the subsequent contraction. Endothelium denudation and inhibition of eNOS significantly altered the SJP‐induced relaxation without changes of eNOS expression. We conclude that SJP has a potent inhibitory effect on the vasoconstriction mediated by a variety of vasoconstrictors in human arteries. The vasorelaxation involves both endothelium‐dependent and ‐independent mechanisms. Thus, the effect of SJP on human arteries demonstrated in this study may prove to be particularly important in vasorelaxing therapy in cardiovascular disease.
Primary Pleomorphic Adenoma of the External Auditory Canal: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Saito Chizu , Kanazawa Takeharu , Yamaguchi Takehiko , Nakamura Ken-ichi , Ichimura Keiichi
Published: April 2014

Background. Pleomorphic adenoma (PA) is a benign tumour that mainly arises from salivary glands, and PA of the external auditory canal (EAC) is very rare. The objective of this study was to clarify the clinical presentation and treatment of PA of the EAC.Method. The authors present a case of PA arising from the EAC together with a literature review.Results. A 40-year-old man complained of hearing loss and foreign-body sensation of the right ear. Clinical and radiological examinations revealed a well-defined tumour limited to the EAC, with no connection to the parotid gland. Preoperative fine-needle aspiration cytology findings were characteristic of PA. The tumour was removed en bloc with the overlying skin.Conclusion. PA of the EAC is very rare, and methods to rule out malignancy before treatment are lacking. Thus, long-term follow-up is necessary, because malignant tumours are common in the EAC and PA has malignant potential.
Mycoplasma pneumoniaeInfection in Children Is a Risk Factor for Developing Allergic Diseases
Authors: Ye Qing , Xu Xiao-Jun , Shao Wen-Xia , Pan Yan-Xiang , Chen Xue-Jun
Published: April 2014

Mycoplasma pneumoniae(MP) infection is the dominant cause of pneumonia in children. We sought to determine the relationship between MP infection and secondary allergic disease and to clarify the associated mechanisms of inflammatory response. A prospective study was performed among 1330 patients diagnosed with pneumonia to investigate the patient immune status by determining the correlation between MP infection, immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels, and a spectrum of associated serum cytokines. Serum IgE, IL-4, IL-6, and IL-10 levels for MPP patients in the acute phase were obviously higher than those in the recovery phase (P<0.01). MPP patients with allergic conditions had increased serum IgE levels and increased IL-4/INF-γratio, and IgE and Eosinophil Cationic Protein were further elevated in patients who eventually developed secondary asthma changes. Patients with severe pneumonia and high clinical pulmonary infection scores presented higher levels of IL-4 and IL-5 in serum than those with low scores (P<0.01). The proportion of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells that secreted IL-4 was significantly increased in MPP patients with elevated IgE. Our data demonstrate a significant correlation between MP infection and IgE levels, which is associated with a Th1/Th2 cytokine imbalance.
Three-Year Results of Repaired Barlow Mitral Valves via Right Minithoracotomy versus Median Sternotomy in a Randomized Trial
Authors: Nasso Giuseppe , Bonifazi Raffaele , Romano Vito , Bartolomucci Francesco , Rosano Giuseppe , Massari Francesco , Fattouch Khalil , Del Prete Giuseppe , Riccioni Graziano , Del Giglio Mauro , Speziale Giuseppe
Published: April 2014

Objectives: To clarify whether the results of repair of a complex mitral lesion (Barlow valve) at the intermediate-term follow-up are independent of the mode of surgical access [minithoracotomy vs. median sternotomy (MS)]. Methods: In a prospective randomized study of mitral repair for Barlow disease using either a minimally invasive (MI) approach or MS, we achieved an average follow-up of 3 years (echocardiography, physical examination and quality of life). Mitral repair was achieved with polytetrafluoroethylene chordal implantation for both leaflets. Results: Both groups included 80 patients. Mechanical ventilation time and intensive care unit and hospital stay were shorter in the MI group (p = 0.01, p = 0.013 and p = 0.02, respectively). During the follow-up, 5 patients in each group (6.25%) displayed mild mitral regurgitation, while 2 patients in each group (2.5%) developed recurrent regurgitation graded as at least moderate/severe. The rate of mitral reoperation was 2.5% in the MI group and 1.25% in the MS group (p = 0.9). The overall follow-up mortality was 3.75% in both the MI and the MS groups. Conclusions: The 3-year results of repair of Barlow valves were satisfactory irrespective of the approach used to repair the valve. The advantages of MI surgery can be achieved in patients with mitral Barlow disease without concerns over the durability of repair.
Three Colon Adenocarcinomas Arising in a Patient with Serrated Polyposis Syndrome: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Pyleris Emmanouil , Koutsounas Ioannis S. , Karantanos Panagiotis
Published: April 2014

Background: Serrated polyposis syndrome (SPS) is a rare entity mainly concerning the 6th decade of life and which is characterized by the presence of multiple large hyperplastic polyps, sessile serrated adenomas, and adenomas within the colon. Case Report: We describe the case of a SPS patient with 3 synchronous adenocarcinomas. The morphologic features of serrated colorectal lesions, their characteristic molecular alterations, and their role in colorectal cancer development are discussed herein. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that SPS is a rare condition with an increased risk for colon cancer. Patients suffering from SPS should have regular colonoscopic surveillance, and perhaps those with numerous dysplastic hyperplastic polyps should be treated with colectomy.
Phagocytosis and Killing of Staphylococcus aureus by Human Neutrophils
Authors: Lu Thea , Porter Adeline R. , Kennedy Adam D. , Kobayashi Scott D. , DeLeo Frank R.
Published: April 2014

Neutrophils are essential for host defense against Staphylococcus aureus infections. Although significant progress has been made, our understanding of neutrophil interactions with S. aureus remains incomplete. To provide a more comprehensive view of this process, we investigated phagocytosis and killing of S. aureus by human neutrophils using varied assay conditions in vitro. A greater percentage of bacteria were internalized by adherent neutrophils compared to those in suspension, and, unexpectedly, uptake of S. aureus by adherent neutrophils occurred efficiently in the absence of opsonins. An antibody specific for S. aureus promoted uptake of unopsonized bacteria in suspension, but had little or no capacity to enhance phagocytosis of S. aureus opsonized with normal human serum or by adherent neutrophils. Collectively, these results indicate that assay conditions can have a significant influence on the phagocytosis and killing of S. aureus by neutrophils. More importantly, the results suggest a vaccine approach directed to enhance opsonophagocytosis alone is not sufficient to promote increased killing of S. aureus by human neutrophils. With the emergence and reemergence of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms, establishing parameters that are optimal for studying neutrophil-S. aureus interactions will pave the way towards developing immune-directed strategies for anti-staphylococcal therapies.
Gender-Specific Aspects of Lynch Syndrome and Familial Adenomatous Polyposis
Authors: Schneider Ralph , Schneider Claudia , Jakobeit Christian , Fürst Alois , Möslein Gabriela
Published: April 2014

Background: The most frequent hereditary colorectal cancer (CRC) syndromes are Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), accounting for approximately 5% of the CRC burden. Both are characterized by an autosomal dominant mode of transmission and require an individualized approach of intensified screening and prophylactic surgery. Methods: In this review, we provide an overview of the literature regarding gene- and gender-specific aspects of Lynch syndrome and FAP. Based upon available data, a personalized approach when treating patients and families with these predisposition syndromes is increasingly warranted. Results: In Lynch syndrome patients, men have a significantly higher lifetime risk and earlier age of manifestation for CRC - especially in MSH6 mutation carriers. Moreover, incidence of gastric, bladder, and urothelial cancers is much higher in males. Females with an MSH6 mutation have to be aware of a very high risk especially for endometrial, but also for ovarian cancer. In FAP families, females are more prone to papillary thyroid cancers and also to desmoid tumors. Conclusion: It is timely to suggest gene- and gender-based adapted screening and surgical recommendations for Lynch syndrome patients. In FAP patients, females should follow intensified screening recommendations for early detection of precursors or papillary cancer of the thyroid. Moreover, desmoid patients should primarily not be subjected to surgical resection but rather to a gender-specific conservative medical treatment.
Intense Exercise Causing Central Retinal Vein Occlusion in a Young Patient: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Moisseiev Elad , Sagiv Oded , Lazar Moshe
Published: April 2014

We report a 19-year-old patient who developed a central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) with significant macular edema and visual impairment following intense exercise and dehydration. The patient was treated with 3 intravitreal bevacizumab injections with complete resolution. A review of the literature on the cause and treatment for CRVO in young patients was performed, focusing on the role of intense exercise and dehydration as a rare pathogenesis mechanism of CRVO.
Gender-Specific Differences in Surgical Site Infections: An Analysis of 438,050 Surgical Procedures from the German National Nosocomial Infections Surveillance System
Authors: Langelotz Corinna , Mueller-Rau Carolin , Terziyski Stoil , Rau Beate , Krannich Alexander , Gastmeier Petra , Geffers Christine
Published: April 2014

Background: Surgical site infections (SSI) are among the most frequent healthcare-associated infections. They impose a substantial burden with increased morbidity and exceeding healthcare costs. Risk factors such as age, diabetes, and smoking status are commonly accounted for in the literature, but few studies address gender differences. Methods: Data from the German Nosocomial Infections Surveillance System (Krankenhaus-Infektions-Surveillance-System (KISS)) from 2005 to 2010 were analysed for cardiac, vascular, visceral, and orthopaedic surgery, with a total of 438,050 surgical procedures and 8,639 SSI. Rates of SSI and isolated pathogens were analysed for gender. Results: Women had a lower rate of SSI (SSI/100 procedures) in abdominal surgery than men (2.92 vs. 4.37; p < 0.001). No gender-specific differences were found in orthopaedic and vascular surgery, while women had a higher risk for SSI in cardiac surgery (5.50 vs. 3.02; p < 0.001). Isolated pathogens showed differences for sensitive Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which were more frequent in women (both p = 0.007), while coagulase-negative staphylococci occurred more often in men (18.8 vs. 14.0%; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Gender differences in SSI exist and are procedure-specific. The underlying mechanisms need to be further elucidated so that targeted measures for the prevention of SSI can be developed.
Resolution of Cystic Enhancement to Add-On Tumor Treating Electric Fields for Recurrent Glioblastoma after Incomplete Response to Bevacizumab
Authors: Elzinga Grace , Wong Eric T.
Published: April 2014

The NovoTTF-100A device emits alternating tumor treating electric fields (TTFields) that interfere with cytokinesis and chromosome segregation during mitosis. Because it has a similar efficacy to cytotoxic chemotherapy, the device has been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of recurrent glioblastoma. Although bevacizumab has been in use for recurrent glioblastoma, patients who experience incomplete or no response to bevacizumab may be predisposed to early bevacizumab treatment failure. However, the addition of TTFields therapy may augment the efficacy from bevacizumab. We report a patient with recurrent cystic glioblastoma who received add-on TTFields therapy due to an incomplete response to single-agent bevacizumab. After 6 cycles of therapy, a resolution of cystic enhancement was noted, together with reduction of the tumor cyst and resolution of most of the cerebral edema in the surrounding brain. However, the patient also suffered from relapsed disease at locations distant from the original glioblastoma and the corresponding radiation fields received at initial diagnosis. We conclude that combination TTFields and bevacizumab therapy is safe and may be efficacious for patients with recurrent glioblastoma. A further study would be needed to determine the relapse pattern and the distribution of the electric fields in the brain.
Pre-Existing Antihypertensive Treatment Predicts Early Increase in Blood Pressure during Bevacizumab Therapy: The Prospective AVALUE Cohort Study
Authors: Wicki Andreas , Hermann Frank , Prêtre Vincent , Winterhalder Ralph , Kueng Marc , von Moos Roger , Rochlitz Christoph , Herrmann Richard
Published: April 2014

Background: Antiangiogenic therapy is routinely used in a variety of cancer entities. Hypertension is the most common side effect of all currently available antiangiogenic treatments. Patients and Methods: In this prospective observational clinical trial, we investigated risk factors for blood pressure elevation in patients exposed to an antiangiogenic agent and explored the correlation between hypertension and the duration of antiangiogenic treatment. Results: In 169 patients, pre-existing antihypertensive medication was the most prominent risk factor associated with increased blood pressure during therapy. Between visits 1 and 3, the median systolic blood pressure increased by 10.85 mmHg in patients with pre-existing hypertension receiving antihypertensive medication while it increased by only 2.69 mmHg in patients without hypertension. The median increase in diastolic pressure was 7.28 versus 0.11 mmHg in patients with versus without pre-existing hypertension. Increases in blood pressure occurred early (within 6 weeks of starting therapy). In spite of this significant increase in the blood pressure, no major bleeding events or other related complications were observed during antiangiogenic therapy. Conclusions: Pre-existing hypertension and treatment with antihypertensive medication correlated with a more pronounced increase in blood pressure. Thus, intensified antihypertensive therapy might be warranted early during bevacizumab therapy in patients already receiving antihypertensive treatment.
Acute Liver Injury in a Patient with Alcohol Dependence: A Case Resembling Autoimmune Hepatitis or Drug-Induced Liver Injury
Authors: Hayashi Masahiro , Kanda Tatsuo , Nakamura Masato , Miyamura Tatsuo , Yasui Shin , Nakamoto Shingo , Wu Shuang , Arai Makoto , Imazeki Fumio , Yokosuka Osamu
Published: April 2014

Some patients with alcohol dependence may initially present with atypical laboratory and histological features resembling autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) or drug-induced liver injury (DILI). Even with liver biopsy, it may be difficult to diagnose certain patients with alcohol dependence. However, careful follow-up of our patient and consultations with the attending psychiatrist were successful in diagnosing alcohol dependence and its liver injury. The immune mechanisms of alcoholic liver diseases, AIH and DILI may be overlapping. Certain patients are suffering from AIH with flares on a background of alcohol abuse. Certain patients with alcohol abuse may have a past history of DILI. This might be consistent with the fact that alcohol dependence initially presents with atypical laboratory features of AIH or DILI. With careful observation, the clinician should remind himself that alcohol dependence is not always required for developing liver disease, since many patients with liver disease do not meet the criteria for alcohol dependence.
Sexual dimorphism in Tripedaliidae (Conant 1897) (Cnidaria, Cubozoa, Carybdeida)
Authors: STRAEHLER-POHL ILKA , GARM ANDERS , MORANDINI ANDRÉ C.
Published: April 2014

The family Tripedaliidae was re-defined and expanded based on a molecular phylogenetic hypothesis by Bentlage et al. (2010, Proceedings of the Royal Society Biological Science, 277: 497). Additionally, Bentlage et al. (2010) proposed that all members of the family Tripedaliidae present dimorphism in gonads and have structures that function as seminal vesicles (at least in males). Until now, no information on Tripedalia binata concerning gonad morphology, sexual dimorphism, spermatophore formation or structures that serve as seminal vesicles or spermathecae were published. We studied mature medusae of both sexes of Tripedalia cystophora, Tripedalia binata and Copula sivickisi in order to compare these structures in their stomach regions. We found sexual dimorphism and spermatophore formation in seminal vesicle-like structures in all three species. In particular, we show that along with the females of Copula sivickisi, the females of Tripedalia cystophora and Tripedalia binata also possess structures that store spermatophores and serve as spermathecae.        The results are in agreement with the morphological synapomorphies for Tripedaliidae outlined in Bentlage et al. (2010), but suggest an adjustment of the diagnosis of Tripedaliidae (underlined): All carybdeids that display sexual dimorphism of the gonads, produce spermatophores and in which males and females possess subgastral sacs, pockets or purses which function as seminal vesicles or spermathecae.
Red Hot Chili Pepper. A New Calluella Stoliczka, 1872 (Lissamphibia: Anura: Microhylidae) from Sarawak, East Malaysia (Borneo)
Authors: DAS INDRANEIL , MIN PUI YONG , HSU WAYNE W. , HERTWIG STEFAN T. , HAAS ALEXANDER
Published: April 2014

A new brightly-coloured (olive and red) species of microhylid frog of the genus Calluella Stoliczka 1872 is described from the upper elevations of Gunung Penrissen and the Matang Range, Sarawak, East Malaysia (Borneo). Calluella capsa, new species, is diagnosable in showing the following combination of characters: SVL up to 36.0 mm; dorsum weakly granular; a faint dermal fold across forehead; toe tips obtuse; webbing on toes basal; lateral fringes on toes present; outer metatarsal tubercle present; and dorsum greyish-olive, with red spots; half of venter bright red, the rest with large white and dark areas. The new species is the eighth species of Calluella to be described, and the fourth known from Borneo. A preliminary phylogeny of Calluella and its relatives is presented, and the new taxon compared with congeners from Malaysia and other parts of south-east Asia.
A Numerical Study on the Ventilation Coefficients of Falling Hailstones
Authors: Cheng Kai-Yuan , Wang Pao K. , Wang Chen-Kang
Published: April 2014

The ventilation coefficients that represent the enhancement of mass transfer rate due to the falling motion of spherical hailstones in an atmosphere of 460 hPa and 248 K are computed by numerically solving the unsteady Navier–Stokes equation for airflow past hailstones and the convective diffusion equation for water vapor diffusion around the falling hailstones. The diameters of the hailstones investigated are from 1 to 10 cm, corresponding to Reynolds number from 5935 to 177 148. The calculated ventilation coefficients vary approximately linearly with the hailstone diameter, from about 19 for a 1-cm hailstone to about 208 for a 10-cm hailstone. Empirical formulas for ventilation coefficient variation with hailstone diameter as well as Reynolds and Schmidt numbers are given. Implications of these ventilation coefficients are discussed.
A High-Resolution Lightning Map of the State of Colorado
Authors: Vogt Brandon J. , Hodanish Stephen J.
Published: April 2014

For the state of Colorado, 10 years (2003–12) of 1 April–31 October cloud-to-ground (CG) lightning stroke data are mapped at 500-m spatial resolution over a 10-m spatial resolution U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) digital elevation model (DEM). Spatially, the 12.5 million strokes that are analyzed represent ground contacts, but translate to density values that are about twice the number of ground contacts. Visual interpretation of the mapped data reveals the general lightning climatology of the state, while geospatial analyses that quantify lightning activity by elevation identify certain topographic influences of Colorado’s physical landscape. Elevations lower than 1829 m (6000 ft) and above 3200 m (10 500 ft) show a positive relationship between lightning activity and elevation, while the variegated topography that lies between these two elevations is characterized by a fluctuating relationship. Though many topographic controls are elucidated through the mappings and analyses, the major finding of this paper is the sharp increase in stroke density observed above 3200 m (10 500 ft). Topography’s role in this rapid surge in stroke density, which peaks in the highest mountain summits, is not well known, and until now, was not well documented in the refereed literature at such high resolution from a long-duration dataset.
Healing the Soldier, Restoring the Nation: Representations of Shell Shock in the USA During and After the First World War
Authors: Stagner Annessa C.
Published: April 2014

This article examines representations of shell shock in American culture during and after the First World War. It draws on the large historiography of First World War-era shell shock in Europe where shell shock came to represent the incurable wounds of the soldier and nation. Examining medical discussions, popular films, works of literature, magazines, and newspapers from 1915–40, this article asserts that in contrast to Europeans, Americans saw shell shock as a temporary, curable injury of war. This understanding uniquely framed the way Americans viewed not only returning veterans, but also US global positioning and responsibility immediately after the war. During the 1920s in the USA, the figure of the uncured shell-shocked veteran took on new meanings, as the wound of shell shock became part of larger debates over the nature of mental illness and the government’s responsibility to care for its veterans. Specifically after the stock market crash of 1929, the term helped to create a new language deployed in connection with global economic hardship and governmental economic assistance.
A functional screen for copper homeostasis genes identifies a pharmacologically tractable cellular system
Authors: Schlecht Ulrich , Suresh Sundari , Xu Weihong , Aparicio Ana Maria , Chu Angela , Proctor Michael J , Davis Ronald W , Scharfe Curt , St Onge Robert P
Published: April 2014

Background

Copper is essential for the survival of aerobic organisms. If copper is not properly regulated in the body however, it can be extremely cytotoxic and genetic mutations that compromise copper homeostasis result in severe clinical phenotypes. Understanding how cells maintain optimal copper levels is therefore highly relevant to human health.

Results

We found that addition of copper (Cu) to culture medium leads to increased respiratory growth of yeast, a phenotype which we then systematically and quantitatively measured in 5050 homozygous diploid deletion strains. Cu’s positive effect on respiratory growth was quantitatively reduced in deletion strains representing 73 different genes, the function of which identify increased iron uptake as a cause of the increase in growth rate. Conversely, these effects were enhanced in strains representing 93 genes. Many of these strains exhibited respiratory defects that were specifically rescued by supplementing the growth medium with Cu. Among the genes identified are known and direct regulators of copper homeostasis, genes required to maintain low vacuolar pH, and genes where evidence supporting a functional link with Cu has been heretofore lacking. Roughly half of the genes are conserved in man, and several of these are associated with Mendelian disorders, including the Cu-imbalance syndromes Menkes and Wilson’s disease. We additionally demonstrate that pharmacological agents, including the approved drug disulfiram, can rescue Cu-deficiencies of both environmental and genetic origin.

Conclusions

A functional screen in yeast has expanded the list of genes required for Cu-dependent fitness, revealing a complex cellular system with implications for human health. Respiratory fitness defects arising from perturbations in this system can be corrected with pharmacological agents that increase intracellular copper concentrations.
Genome sequence of Ensifer adhaerens OV14 provides insights into its ability as a novel vector for the genetic transformation of plant genomes
Authors: Rudder Steven , Doohan Fiona , Creevey Christopher J , Wendt Toni , Mullins Ewen
Published: April 2014

Background

Recently it has been shown that Ensifer adhaerens can be used as a plant transformation technology, transferring genes into several plant genomes when equipped with a Ti plasmid. For this study, we have sequenced the genome of Ensifer adhaerens OV14 (OV14) and compared it with those of Agrobacterium tumefaciens C58 (C58) and Sinorhizobium meliloti 1021 (1021); the latter of which has also demonstrated a capacity to genetically transform crop genomes, albeit at significantly reduced frequencies.

Results

The 7.7 Mb OV14 genome comprises two chromosomes and two plasmids. All protein coding regions in the OV14 genome were functionally grouped based on an eggNOG database. No genes homologous to the A. tumefaciens Ti plasmid vir genes appeared to be present in the OV14 genome. Unexpectedly, OV14 and 1021 were found to possess homologs to chromosomal based genes cited as essential to A. tumefaciens T-DNA transfer. Of significance, genes that are non-essential but exert a positive influence on virulence and the ability to genetically transform host genomes were identified in OV14 but were absent from the 1021 genome.

Conclusions

This study reveals the presence of homologs to chromosomally based Agrobacterium genes that support T-DNA transfer within the genome of OV14 and other alphaproteobacteria. The sequencing and analysis of the OV14 genome increases our understanding of T-DNA transfer by non-Agrobacterium species and creates a platform for the continued improvement of Ensifer-mediated transformation (EMT).
A descriptive study of colorectal function in adults with Prader-Willi Syndrome: high prevalence of constipation
Authors: Kuhlmann Louise , Joensson Iben Moeller , Froekjaer Jens Broendum , Krogh Klaus , Farholt Stense
Published: April 2014

Background

Some patients with Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) have symptoms of constipation, but bowel function in PWS has never been systematically evaluated. The aim of the present study was to describe colorectal function in PWS by means of validated techniques.

Methods

Twenty-one patients with PWS (14 women, age 17–47 (median = 32)) were evaluated with the Rome III constipation criteria, stool diary, digital rectal examination, rectal diameter assessed from transabdominal ultrasound, and total gastrointestinal transit time (GITT) determined with radio-opaque markers. Results were compared with those of healthy controls.

Results

Among PWS patients able to provide information for Rome III criteria, 8/20 (40%) fulfilled the criteria for constipation. Most commonly reported symptoms were a feeling of obstructed defecation (8/19, 42%), <3 defecations per week (8/17, 47%), straining during defecation (7/19, 37%) and lumpy or hard stools (6/19, 32%). Rectal diameter did not differ between PWS (median 3.56 centimeters, range 2.24–5.36) and healthy controls (median 3.42 centimeters, range 2.67–4.72) (p = 0.96), but more PWS patients (13/20; 65%) than healthy controls (3/25; 12%) (p < 0.001) had fecal mass in the rectum. Median GITT was 2.0 days (range 0.5–4.4) in PWS versus 1.6 (range 0.7–2.5) in the control group (p = 0.26). However, GITT was >3 days in 5/21 (24%) of PWS and none of the controls (p = 0.047).

Conclusion

Constipation is very common in PWS. Patients with PWS have an increased prevalence of prolonged GITT and palpable stools in the rectum at digital rectal examination.
Neck circumference as a measure of neck fat and abdominal visceral fat in Chinese adults
Authors: Li Hong-Xing , Zhang Fen , Zhao Dong , Xin Zhong , Guo Shu-Qin , Wang Shu-Mei , Zhang Jian-Jun , Wang Jun , Li Yan , Yang Guang-Ran , Yang Jin-Kui
Published: April 2014

Background

Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) is a unique pathogenic fatty deposit, in that it is closely correlated with risk of cardiovascular diseases. The present study is to investigate the usefulness of neck circumference (NC) to indicate VAT.

Methods

Participants aged 35 to 75 years who had taken abdomen and neck computer tomography (CT) examination were included in this study. Neck adipose tissue, abdominal VAT and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) areas, as well as sagittal abdominal diameter (SAD) were measured by CT. Body anthropometrics and metabolic parameters including blood glucose, lipid profiles and blood pressure were also measured.

Results

A lower abdomen CT examination was carried out on a total of 177 patients (87 male and 90 female) with a mean age of 59 years. Of the 177 participants, 15 men and 15 women also took a neck CT examination. With a comparable age and BMI, neck adipose area was correlated with abdominal VAT area significantly in men (r = 0.57, p = 0.028) and women (r = 0.53, p = 0.041). NC is positively correlated with VAT both in men (r = 0.49, p < 0.001) and women (r = 0.25, p = 0.012). Meanwhile, SAD is the best predictor for visceral fat both in men (r = 0.83, p < 0.001) and women (r = 0.73, p < 0.001). Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and waist to height ratio (WHtR) correlated significantly with VAT both in men and women (r = 0.68, 0.42, 0.46 in men and 0.50, 0.23, 0.39 in women, p < 0.001), while waist hip ratio (WHR) displayed the weakest least correlation in men (r = 0.32, p = 0.001) and no correlation in women (r = 0.08, p = 0.442). Additionally, BMI was more strongly correlated with VAT than NC in both sexes (both p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Significant correlation between NC and VAT was present in Chinese men and women, which may be accounted by the fact that neck fat area is significantly correlated with abdominal VAT. Meanwhile, SAD is the best predictor for visceral fat in the Chinese population.