bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deficient sucrose synthase activity in developing wood does not specifically affect cellulose biosynthesis, but causes an overall decrease in cell wall polymers
Authors: Gerber Lorenz , Zhang Bo , Roach Melissa , Rende Umut , Gorzsás András , Kumar Manoj , Burgert Ingo , Niittylä Totte , Sundberg Björn
Published: June 2014

The biosynthesis of wood in aspen (Populus) depends on the metabolism of sucrose, which is the main transported form of carbon from source tissues. The largest fraction of the wood biomass is cellulose, which is synthesized from UDP‐glucose. Sucrose synthase (SUS) has been proposed previously to interact directly with cellulose synthase complexes and specifically supply UDP‐glucose for cellulose biosynthesis.

To investigate the role of SUS in wood biosynthesis, we characterized transgenic lines of hybrid aspen with strongly reduced SUS activity in developing wood.

No dramatic growth phenotypes in glasshouse‐grown trees were observed, but chemical fingerprinting with pyrolysis‐GC/MS, together with micromechanical analysis, showed notable changes in chemistry and ultrastructure of the wood in the transgenic lines. Wet chemical analysis showed that the dry weight percentage composition of wood polymers was not changed significantly. However, a decrease in wood density was observed and, consequently, the content of lignin, hemicellulose and cellulose was decreased per wood volume. The decrease in density was explained by a looser structure of fibre cell walls as shown by increased wall shrinkage on drying.

The results show that SUS is not essential for cellulose biosynthesis, but plays a role in defining the total carbon incorporation to wood cell walls.
Inclusion of costs in conservation planning depends on limited datasets and hopeful assumptions
Authors: Armsworth Paul R.
Published: June 2014

Many conservation organizations use spatial prioritization to help identify locations in which to work. Increasingly, prioritizations seek to account for spatial heterogeneity in the costs of conservation, motivated in part by claims of large efficiency savings when these costs are included. I critically review the cost estimates on which such claims are based, focusing on acquisition and management costs associated with terrestrial protected areas. If researchers are to evaluate how including costs affects conservation planning outcomes, estimation methods need to preserve the covariation between and relative variation within costs and benefits of conservation activities. However, widely used methods for estimating costs and incorporating them into prioritizations may not meet these standards. For example, among relevant studies, there is surprisingly little attention given to the costs that conservation organizations actually face. Instead, there is a heavy reliance on untested proxies for conservation costs. Analytical shortcuts are also common. Now that debate is moving beyond whether to account for costs in conservation planning, it is time to evaluate just how we can include them to greatest effect.
Hereditary Vitamin D–Resistant Rickets Presenting as Alopecia
Authors: Casey Genevieve , McPherson Tess , Kini Usha , Ryan Fiona , Taibjee Saleem M. , Moss Celia , Burge Susan
Published: June 2014

Hereditary vitamin D–resistant rickets (HVDRR) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene. We report the case of an infant presenting with alopecia, growth failure, and gross motor developmental delay. Serum biochemistry and skeletal survey were consistent with rickets. After a poor response to standard treatment, genetic testing confirmed a c.147–2A>T novel mutation in the VDR gene consistent with HVDRR. It is important for dermatologists and pediatricians to recognize alopecia as a presenting sign of HVDRR because appropriate treatment leads to better growth and development of the child.
Tooth Enamel Hypoplasia in PHACE Syndrome
Authors: Chiu Yvonne E. , Siegel Dawn H. , Drolet Beth A. , Hodgson Brian D.
Published: June 2014

Individuals with PHACE syndrome (posterior fossa malformations, hemangiomas, arterial anomalies, cardiac defects, eye abnormalities, sternal cleft, and supraumbilical raphe syndrome) have reported dental abnormalities to their healthcare providers and in online forums, but dental involvement has not been comprehensively studied. A study was conducted at the third PHACE Family Conference, held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in July 2012. A pediatric dentist examined subjects at enrollment. Eighteen subjects were enrolled. The median age was 4.2 years (range 9 mos–9 yrs; 14 girls, 4 boys). Eleven of 18 patients had intraoral hemangiomas and five of these (50%) had hypomature enamel hypoplasia. None of the seven patients without intraoral hemangiomas had enamel hypoplasia. No other dental abnormalities were seen. Enamel hypoplasia may be a feature of PHACE syndrome when an intraoral hemangioma is present. Enamel hypoplasia increases the risk of caries, and clinicians should refer children with PHACE syndrome to a pediatric dentist by 1 year of age.
Summarizing Risk Using Risk Measures and Risk Indices
Authors: MacKenzie Cameron A.
Published: June 2014

Our society is fascinated with risk in many different areas and disciplines. One of the main ways to describe and communicate the level of risk is through risk indices, which summarize risk using numbers or categories such as words, letters, or colors. These indices are used to communicate risks to the public, understand how risk is changing over time, compare among different risks, and support decision making. Given the different methods to construct risk indices, including flawed methods such as risk matrices, this article develops specific steps that analysts can follow to create a risk index. This article emphasizes the importance of describing risk with a probability distribution, developing a numerical risk measure that summarizes the probability distribution, and finally translating the risk measure to an index. Measuring the risk is the most difficult part and requires the analyst to summarize a probability distribution into one or possibly a few numbers. The risk measure can then be transformed to a numerical or categorical index. I apply the method outlined in this article to construct a risk index that compares the risk of fatalities in aviation and highway transportation.
Modeling Insurer‐Homeowner Interactions in Managing Natural Disaster Risk
Authors: Kesete Yohannes , Peng Jiazhen , Gao Yang , Shan Xiaojun , Davidson Rachel A. , Nozick Linda K. , Kruse Jamie
Published: June 2014

The current system for managing natural disaster risk in the United States is problematic for both homeowners and insurers. Homeowners are often uninsured or underinsured against natural disaster losses, and typically do not invest in retrofits that can reduce losses. Insurers often do not want to insure against these losses, which are some of their biggest exposures and can cause an undesirably high chance of insolvency. There is a need to design an improved system that acknowledges the different perspectives of the stakeholders. In this article, we introduce a new modeling framework to help understand and manage the insurer's role in catastrophe risk management. The framework includes a new game‐theoretic optimization model of insurer decisions that interacts with a utility‐based homeowner decision model and is integrated with a regional catastrophe loss estimation model. Reinsurer and government roles are represented as bounds on the insurer‐insured interactions. We demonstrate the model for a full‐scale case study for hurricane risk to residential buildings in eastern North Carolina; present the results from the perspectives of all stakeholders—primary insurers, homeowners (insured and uninsured), and reinsurers; and examine the effect of key parameters on the results.
Traces of Reduction: Marion and Heidegger on the Phenomenon of Religion
Authors: Rogers Brian
Published: June 2014

In his work, Being Given, Jean‐Luc Marion calls for a phenomenological investigation of the givenness (donation) of the phenomenon. As a phenomenologist of religion, Marion aims to give a philosophical account of the possibility of revelation, something which by definition is unconditionally given. In Being Given, he contends that his phenomenological reduction to unconditional givenness (in the figure of the saturated phenomenon) can account for religious phenomena in a way that respects the subject matter, all the while remaining philosophically neutral. In this paper I argue that Marion's aim to maintain strict philosophical neutrality interferes with his attempt to respect the subject matter of his own investigation, i.e., the givenness of revelation, since revelation is recognizably given, even as possibility, only in the non‐neutral context of an interpretive tradition. I establish the latter claim with recourse to Heidegger's early hermeneutic sketches of ‘primordial Christian religiosity.’ In turn, I call for a phenomenological Destruktion of Marion's work in order to release its potential as a non‐neutral investigation of a distinctively Catholic religiosity.
Existential Phenomenology and the Conceptual Problem of Other Minds
Authors: Skirke Christian
Published: June 2014

We ordinarily think that self and other coexist as subjects with mutually exclusive mental lives. The conceptual problem of other minds challenges this common thought by raising doubts that coexistence and mutual exclusivity come together in a coherent idea of others. Existential phenomenology is usually taken to be exempt from skeptical worries of this sort because it conceives of subjects as situated or embodied, offering an inclusive account of coexistence. I submit that this well‐entrenched view faces a serious dilemma: either the ordinary distinction between self and other has to be given up, or accounts of situated and embodied coexistence presuppose a non‐phenomenological solution to (a close relative of) the conceptual problem of other minds. I then propose a way out for existential phenomenology by sketching a Sartre‐inspired phenomenological response to the problem.
Validation of the Suicide Resilience Inventory‐25 with American and Chinese College Students
Authors: Fang Qijuan , Freedenthal Stacey , Osman Augustine
Published: June 2014

This study is the first to evaluate evidence for measurement invariance and the psychometric properties of the Suicide Resilience Inventory‐25 (SRI‐25; Osman et al., ) in college‐age samples in both the United States and China. We found strong support for full measurement invariance of the three‐factor structure of the SRI‐25 in the U.S. (113 men and 238 women) and Chinese (121 men and 205 women) samples. In addition, we found that the U.S. sample scored significantly higher than the Chinese sample on all the individual scale scores. Composite scale reliability estimates ranged from moderate (ρ = .83) to high (ρ = .93) across the groups. Although not an aim of the current study, we examined estimates of internal consistency of the SRI‐25 scales for men and women within each sample. Differential correlates of the SRI‐25 scales were explored further for each sample. These results provide support for the use of the SRI‐25 in U.S. and Chinese student samples.
More Likely to Be Poor Whatever the Measure: Working‐Age Persons with Disabilities in the United States*
Authors: Brucker Debra L. , Mitra Sophie , Chaitoo Navena , Mauro Joseph
Published: June 2014

Objective

This article examines whether disability is a correlate of poverty when poverty is measured using (1) the official poverty measure; (2) the supplemental poverty measure (SPM); and (3) two multidimensional poverty measures created by the authors.

Methods

Data from the Current Population Survey are used to explore the relationship between poverty and disability for each measure. Differences across disability status were tested for statistical significance.

Results

Disability is associated with poverty, irrespective of the poverty measure under use. The gap in poverty rates between persons with and without disabilities is smaller when using the SPM as compared to the official poverty measure. The gap in poverty rates between persons with and without disabilities is highest when using multidimensional poverty measures.

Conclusion

Working‐age persons with disabilities are more likely to be poor whatever the measure under use. They are a disadvantaged group in the United States.
Relationships within theMelitaea phoebespecies group (Lepidoptera:Nymphalidae): new insights from molecular and morphometric information
Authors: TÓTH JÁNOS P. , BERECZKI JUDIT , VARGA ZOLTÁN , ROTA JADRANKA , SRAMKÓ GÁBOR , WAHLBERG NIKLAS
Published: June 2014

The genusMelitaeaconsists of about 80 species, divided into ten species groups, which are all restricted to thePalaearctic region. TheMelitaea phoebegroup was defined byHiggins based on morphological characters such as wing pattern and genital structures. According to his interpretation, theM. phoebegroup included seven species:M. phoebe,M. sibina,M. scotosia,M. aetherie,M. collina,M. consulisandM. turkmanica. The taxonomy of thephoebespecies group has been poorly resolved and recent results on the species composition within the group suggest the need for a re‐evaluation. In this study molecular sequences (5985 bp) including one mitochondrial (COI) and up to six nuclear (CAD,EF‐1α,GAPDH,MDH,RpS5andwingless) gene regions from 38 specimens of theMelitaea phoebespecies groupsensuHiggins and some closely related taxa from thePalaearctic region were analysed. The possible evolution of the processus posterior of the male genitalia was also reconstructed based on a shape mapping technique. The analysis of the combined data shows a very clear pattern and almost all relationships are highly supported. Based on the combinedBayesian tree and the shape of the processus posterior of the male genitalia, four main groups are recognised: (i)collinagroup, (ii)arduinnagroup, (iii)aetheriegroup and (iv)phoebegroup. The status ofM. ornata,M. zagrosiandM. scotosiaas species is confirmed, and the results also indicate thatM. telona(s.s.) fromIsrael is a separate species.
Persistence of Parvovirus B19 (B19V) DNA and humoral immune response in B19V‐infected blood donors
Authors: Juhl D. , Görg S. , Hennig H.
Published: June 2014

Background and Objectives

Parvovirus B19 (B19V) DNA seems to persist in the plasma of B19V‐infected blood donors. The relevance of this for recipients of single‐donor blood components is yet unclear.

Material and Methods

We studied serial archive and follow‐up samples from 75 B19V‐infected blood donors to obtain more data about the duration and degree of viraemia and the presence of IgG and IgM anti‐B19V. IgG antibodies were further characterized by Western blot analysis in 29 donors.

Results

In 411 B19V DNA‐positive samples collected, we found high concentrations (>106 IU B19V DNA/ml plasma) in five. B19V DNA persisted for a mean of 21·5 months (range: 2·3–52·4; 95% confidence interval, 19·1–23·9 months) in all donors. Only 15 such samples had either no or low‐titre IgG anti‐B19V. IgG antibodies were predominantly directed against epitopes on the minor capsid protein VP1, thus probably of neutralizing type with high avidity. IgM anti‐B19V was detectable in 9/13 samples with high DNA concentrations.

Conclusions

The vast majority of single‐donor blood components with detectable B19V DNA are probably not infectious for their recipients because DNA is at only low levels and the donors also have potentially neutralizing antibodies with high avidity. Anti‐B19V IgM testing does not identify every donation with high B19V DNA concentrations, but, in addition to B19V NAT testing, donors with persistent IgG anti‐B19V might be considered ‘B19V‐safe’ for single‐donor blood components.
Experimental Quantification of Metallurgy Changes Induced by Laser Welding in AISI304 Stainless Steel
Authors: Lambertsen Soren Heide , Damkilde Lars , D. Ulriksen Martin
Published: June 2014

Laser-welded joints of stainless steel AISI304 are investigated experimentally to determine the transfor- mation of austenite to martensite during the welding process. This transformation, which occurs in the welded region due to heating and residual stresses, can influence the fatigue and fracture properties of the affected material. Therefore, the scope of the present study is to determine the quantity of introduced martensite in the welded region and hereby clarify the influence of laser welding on the fatigue and fracture properties of welded AISI304 joints. The quantification of martensite concentration is carried out by use of four different methods, namely Lichtenegger and Bloech (LB1) etching, Ferritescope, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Vickers hardness. It is found that a concentration of 1-1.6 % martensite is introduced in the laser-welded area; a quantity that has insignificant influence on the fatigue properties of the joints.
Characterization of the diversity in bat biosonar beampatterns with spherical harmonics power spectra
Authors: Motamedi Mohammad , Müller Rolf
Published: June 2014

The biosonar beampatterns found across different bat species are highly diverse in terms of global and local shape properties such as overall beamwidth or the presence, location, and shape of multiple lobes. It may be hypothesized that some of this variability reflects evolutionary adaptation. To investigate this hypothesis, the present work has searched for patterns in the variability across a set of 283 numerical predictions of emission and reception beampatterns from 88 bat species belonging to four major families (Rhinolophidae, Hipposideridae, Phyllostomidae, Vespertilionidae). This was done using a lossy compression of the beampatterns that utilized real spherical harmonics as basis functions. The resulting vector representations showed differences between the families as well as between emission and reception. These differences existed in the means of the power spectra as well as in their distribution. The distributions were characterized in a low dimensional space found through principal component analysis. The distinctiveness of the beampatterns across the groups was corroborated by pairwise classification experiments that yielded correct classification rates between ∼85% and ∼98%. Beamwidth was a major factor but not the sole distinguishing feature in these classification experiments. These differences could be seen as an indication of adaptive trends at the beampattern level.
Flow rate and duty cycle effects in lysis of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii using high-energy pulsed focused ultrasound
Authors: Riesberg Grant , Bigelow Timothy A. , Stessman Dan J. , Spalding Martin H. , Yao Linxing , Wang Tong , Xu Jin
Published: June 2014

To consider microalgae lipid biofuel as a viable energy source, it is a necessity to maximize algal cell lysis, lipid harvest, and thus biofuel production versus the energy used to lyse the cells. Previous techniques have been to use energy consumptive ultrasound waves in the 10–40 kHz range in a stationary exposure environment. This study evaluated the potential of using 1.1 MHz ultrasound pulses in a new flow through type chamber on Chlamydomonas reinhardtii as a model organism for cell breakage. The ultrasound was generated using a spherically focused transducer with a focal length of 6.34 cm and an active diameter of 6.36 cm driven by 20 cycle sine-wave tone bursts at varied pulse repetition frequencies. First, variations in flow rate were examined at a constant duty cycle of 3.6%. After assessing flow rates, the duty cycle was varied to further explore the dependence on the tone burst parameters. Cell lysis was assessed by quantifying protein and chlorophyll release into the supernatant as well as by lipid extractability. Appropriate flow rates with higher duty cycles led to statistically significant increases in cell lysis relative to controls and other exposure conditions.
Fitness Level Moderates Executive Control Disruption During Exercise Regardless of Age
Authors: Labelle Veronique , Bosquet Laurent , Mekary Said , Vu Thien Tuong Minh , Smilovitch Mark , Bherer Louis
Published: June 2014

The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of exercise intensity, age, and fitness levels on executive and nonexecutive cognitive tasks during exercise. Participants completed a computerized modified-Stroop task (including denomination, inhibition, and switching conditions) while pedaling on a cycle ergometer at 40%, 60%, and 80% of peak power output (PPO). We showed that a bout of moderate-intensity (60% PPO) to high-intensity (80% PPO) exercise was associated with deleterious performance in the executive component of the computerized modified-Stroop task (i.e., switching condition), especially in lower-fit individuals (p < .01). Age did not have an effect on the relationship between acute cardiovascular exercise and cognition. Acute exercise can momentarily impair executive control equivalently in younger and older adults, but individual’s fitness level moderates this relation.
Implicit Motives and Basic Need Satisfaction in Extreme Endurance Sports
Authors: Schüler Julia , Wegner Mirko , Knechtle Beat
Published: June 2014

Previous research has shown that the effects of basic psychological needs on the flow experience in sports are moderated by implicit motives. However, so far, only leisure and health-oriented sports have been analyzed. In a pilot study and a main study (N = 29, 93), we tested whether the implicit achievement and affiliation motives interact with the need for competence and the need for social relatedness satisfaction, respectively, to predict flow experience and well-being in extreme endurance athletes. Results showed that highly achievement-motivated individuals benefited more from the need for competence satisfaction in terms of flow than individuals with a low achievement motive did. In addition, highly affiliation-motivated individuals whose need for social relatedness is satisfied reported higher positive affect and lower exercise addiction scores than athletes with a low motive. We discuss the differential effects of the interplay between the achievement and affiliation motives and basic needs on different outcome variables.
“I’m Pretty Sure That We Will Win!”: The Influence of Score-Related Nonverbal Behavioral Changes on the Confidence in Winning a Basketball Game
Authors: Furley Philip , Schweizer Geoffrey
Published: June 2014

The goal of the present research was to test whether score-related changes in opponents’ nonverbal behavior influence athletes’ confidence in beating their opponents. In an experiment, 40 participants who were experienced basketball players watched brief video clips depicting athletes’ nonverbal behavior. Video clips were not artificially created, but showed naturally occurring behavior. Participants indicated how confident they were in beating the presented athletes in a hypothetical scenario. Results indicated that participants’ confidence estimations were influenced by opponents’ score-related nonverbal behavior. Participants were less confident about beating a leading team and more confident about beating a trailing team, although they were unaware of the actual score during the depicted scenes. The present research is the first to show that in-game variations of naturally occurring nonverbal behavior can influence athletes’ confidence. This finding highlights the importance of research into nonverbal behavior in sports, particularly in relation to athletes’ confidence.
An Internal Focus of Attention Is Not Always as Bad as Its Reputation: How Specific Aspects of Internally Focused Attention Do Not Hinder Running Efficiency
Authors: Schücker Linda , Knopf Christian , Strauss Bernd , Hagemann Norbert
Published: June 2014

The aim of this study was to examine differentiated effects of internally focused attention in endurance sports. Thirty-two active runners ran 24 min on a treadmill at a fixed speed of moderate intensity. For each 6-min block, participants had to direct their attention on different internal aspects (movement execution, breathing, or feeling of the body) or received no instructions. Oxygen consumption (VO2) was measured continuously to determine running economy. Results revealed that the different internal focus instructions had differentiated effects on VO2: A focus on breathing as well as a focus on the running movement led to higher VO2 than a focus on feeling of the body which showed similar VO2 as the control condition. We conclude that an internal focus of attention is solely detrimental to performance when directed to highly automated processes (e.g., breathing or movement). However, an internal focus on how the body feels during exercise does not disrupt movement efficiency.
Examining the Link Between Framed Physical Activity Ads and Behavior Among Women
Authors: Berenbaum Erin , Latimer-Cheung Amy E.
Published: June 2014

Gain-framed messages are more effective at promoting physical activity than loss-framed messages. However, the mechanism through which this effect occurs is unclear. The current experiment examined the effects of message framing on variables described in the communication behavior change model (McGuire, 1989), as well as the mediating effects of these variables on the message-frame–behavior relationship. Sixty low-to-moderately active women viewed 20 gain- or loss-framed ads and five control ads while their eye movements were recorded via eye tracking. The gain-framed ads attracted greater attention, ps < .05; produced more positive attitudes, p = .06; were better recalled, p < .001; influenced decisions to be active, p = .07; and had an immediate and delayed impact on behavior, ps < .05, compared with the loss-framed messages. Mediation analyses failed to reveal any significant effects. This study demonstrates the effects of framed messages on several outcomes; however, the mechanisms underlying these effects remain unclear.
Isotype Switching Increases Efficacy of Antibody Protection against Staphylococcal Enterotoxin B-Induced Lethal Shock and Staphylococcus aureus Sepsis in Mice
Authors: Varshney Avanish K. , Wang Xiaobo , Aguilar Jorge L. , Scharff Matthew D. , Fries Bettina C.
Published: June 2014

Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) is a potent toxin that is produced by
Staphylococcus aureus
strains and is classified as a category B select agent. We have previously shown that monoclonal antibody (MAb) 20B1, a murine anti-SEB IgG1, successfully treats SEB-induced lethal shock (SEBILS) and bacteremia that is caused by SEB-producing
S. aureus
. In this study, we have generated two isotype switch variants of the original IgG1 MAb 20B1, an IgG2a and IgG2b, both bearing the same variable region sequence, and compared their neutralizing and protective activity in
in vitro
and
in vivo
assays, respectively. All 3 isotypes demonstrated comparable affinity to SEB and comparable 50% inhibitory concentrations (IC
50
s) in T cell proliferation assays.
In vivo
, however, the IgG2a isotype variant of 20B1 exhibited significantly greater protection than IgG1 or IgG2b in murine SEB intoxication and
S. aureus
sepsis models. Protection was associated with downmodulation of inflammatory host response. Our data demonstrate that changing the isotype of already protective MAbs, without affecting their antigen specificity or sensitivity, can result in an enhancement of their protective ability. Isotype selection, therefore, should be carefully considered in the development of toxin-neutralizing MAbs and the design of antibody therapeutics.

IMPORTANCE
The purpose of this study was to enhance the protective efficacy of an existing, protective monoclonal antibody against staphylococcal enterotoxin B. Using two
in vivo
mouse models, our study demonstrates that the protective efficacy of a monoclonal antibody may be improved by inducing an isotype switch at the Fc region of an antibody, without altering the antigen specificity or sensitivity of the antibody. The development of therapeutic MAbs with higher efficacy may allow for the achievement of equal therapeutic benefit with a lower dosage. In turn, the use of lower doses may reduce the cost of these therapies, while reducing the potential for adverse side effects.
Saccharomyces boulardii
Administration Changes Gut Microbiota and Reduces Hepatic Steatosis, Low
-
Grade Inflammation, and Fat Mass in Obese and Type 2 Diabetic
db
/
db
Mice
Authors: Everard Amandine , Matamoros Sébastien , Geurts Lucie , Delzenne Nathalie M. , Cani Patrice D.
Published: June 2014

Growing evidence shows that gut microbes are key factors involved in the regulation of energy homeostasis, metabolic inflammation, lipid metabolism, and glucose metabolism. Therefore, gut microbiota modulations caused by selectively fermented oligosaccharides or probiotic bacteria constitute an interesting target in the physiopathology of obesity. However, to date, no probiotic yeast has been investigated in this context. Therefore, our study aimed to evaluate the impact of the most-studied probiotic yeast (i.e.,
Saccharomyces boulardii
Biocodex) on obesity and associated metabolic features, such as fat mass development, hepatic steatosis, and low-grade inflammation, in obese mice.
S. boulardii
was administered daily by oral gavage to leptin-resistant obese and type 2 diabetic mice (
db/db
) for 4 weeks. We found that
S. boulardii
-treated mice exhibited reduced body weight, fat mass, hepatic steatosis, and inflammatory tone. Interestingly, these effects of
S. boulardii
on host metabolism were associated with local effects in the intestine.
S. boulardii
increased cecum weight and cecum tissue weight but also induced dramatic changes in the gut microbial composition at the phylum, family, and genus levels. These gut microbiota changes in response to
S. boulardii
may also be correlated with the host metabolism response. In conclusion, this study demonstrates for the first time that
S. boulardii
may act as a beneficial probiotic treatment in the context of obesity and type 2 diabetes.

IMPORTANCE
To date, no probiotic yeast have been investigated in the context of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Here we found that type 2 diabetic and obese mice (
db/db
) treated with
Saccharomyces boulardii
exhibited reduced body weight, fat mass, hepatic steatosis, and inflammatory tone. These effects on host metabolism were associated with local effects in the intestine. Importantly, by using pyrosequencing, we found that
S. boulardii
treatment induces changes of the gut microbiota composition at the phylum, family, and genus levels. Moreover, we found that gut microbiota changes in response to
S. boulardii
were correlated with several host metabolism responses.
Antigenic Variation of Clade 2.1 H5N1 Virus Is Determined by a Few Amino Acid Substitutions Immediately Adjacent to the Receptor Binding Site
Authors: Koel Björn F. , van der Vliet Stefan , Burke David F. , Bestebroer Theo M. , Bharoto Eny E. , Yasa I. Wayan W. , Herliana Inna , Laksono Brigitta M. , Xu Kemin , Skepner Eugene , Russell Colin A. , Rimmelzwaan Guus F. , Perez Daniel R. , Osterhaus Albert D. M. E. , Smith Derek J. , Prajitno Teguh Y. , Fouchier Ron A. M.
Published: June 2014

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses of the H5N1 subtype are genetically highly variable and have diversified into multiple phylogenetic clades over the past decade. Antigenic drift is a well-studied phenomenon for seasonal human influenza viruses, but much less is known about the antigenic evolution of HPAI H5N1 viruses that circulate in poultry. In this study, we focused on HPAI H5N1 viruses that are enzootic to Indonesia. We selected representative viruses from genetically distinct lineages that are currently circulating and determined their antigenic properties by hemagglutination inhibition assays. At least six antigenic variants have circulated between 2003, when H5N1 clade 2.1 viruses were first detected in Indonesia, and 2011. During this period, multiple antigenic variants cocirculated in the same geographic regions. Mutant viruses were constructed by site-directed mutagenesis to represent each of the circulating antigenic variants, revealing that antigenic differences between clade 2.1 viruses were due to only one or very few amino acid substitutions immediately adjacent to the receptor binding site. Antigenic variants of H5N1 virus evaded recognition by both ferret and chicken antibodies. The molecular basis for antigenic change in clade 2.1 viruses closely resembled that of seasonal human influenza viruses, indicating that the hemagglutinin of influenza viruses from different hosts and subtypes may be similarly restricted to evade antibody recognition.

IMPORTANCE
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 viruses are responsible for severe outbreaks in both commercial and backyard poultry, causing considerable economic losses and regular zoonotic transmissions to humans. Vaccination is used increasingly to reduce the burden of HPAI H5N1 virus in poultry. Influenza viruses can escape from recognition by antibodies induced upon vaccination or infection through genetic changes in the hemagglutinin protein. The evolutionary patterns and molecular basis of antigenic change in HPAI H5N1 viruses are poorly understood, hampering formulation of optimal vaccination strategies. We have shown here that HPAI H5N1 viruses in Indonesia diversified into multiple antigenic variants, that antigenic differences were due to one or a very few substitutions near the receptor binding site, and that the molecular basis for antigenic change was remarkably similar to that for seasonal human influenza viruses. These findings have consequences for future vaccination and surveillance considerations and contribute to the understanding of the antigenic evolution of influenza viruses.
A Histone Deacetylase Complex Mediates Biofilm Dispersal and Drug Resistance in Candida albicans
Authors: Nobile Clarissa J. , Fox Emily P. , Hartooni Nairi , Mitchell Kaitlin F. , Hnisz Denes , Andes David R. , Kuchler Karl , Johnson Alexander D.
Published: June 2014

Biofilms are resilient, surface-associated communities of cells with specialized properties (e.g., resistance to drugs and mechanical forces) that are distinct from those of suspension (planktonic) cultures. Biofilm formation by the opportunistic human fungal pathogenCandida albicansis medically relevant becauseC. albicansinfections are highly correlated with implanted medical devices, which provide efficient substrates for biofilm formation; moreover, biofilms are inherently resistant to antifungal drugs. Biofilms are also important forC. albicansto colonize diverse niches of the human host. Here, we describe four core members of a conserved histone deacetylase complex inC. albicans(Set3, Hos2, Snt1, and Sif2) and explore the effects of their mutation on biofilm formation. We find that these histone deacetylase complex members are needed for proper biofilm formation, including dispersal of cells from biofilms and multifactorial drug resistance. Our results underscore the importance of the physical properties of biofilms in contributing to drug resistance and dispersal and lay a foundation for new strategies to target biofilm dispersal as a potential antifungal intervention.

IMPORTANCEThrough the formation of biofilms—surface-associated communities of cells—microorganisms can establish infections, become drug resistant, and evade the host immune system. Here we investigate how four core members of a conserved histone deacetylase complex mediate biofilm formation byCandida albicans, the major fungal pathogen of humans. We show that this histone deacetylase complex is required for biofilm dispersal, a process through which cells leave the biofilm to establish new infections. We also show that the deacetylase complex mediates biofilm drug resistance. This work provides new insight into how the physical properties of biofilms affect dispersal and drug resistance and suggests new potential antifungal strategies that could be effective against biofilms.
Solitary cystic cerebellar metastasis in a patient with invasive transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder
Authors: Vaa Brianna , Kohli Manish , Price Katharine A , Swetz Keith Mark
Published: June 2014

Transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder (TCC) represents nearly 90% of genitourinary malignancies and typically presents with locally invasive symptoms. Metastasis to the central nervous system (CNS) is uncommon occurring in <5% of patients. When present, metastatic lesions are typically solid, isolated and located in the cerebrum. We report a case of a patient with a history of TCC who presented with lethargy and ataxia and was found to have a solitary cystic cerebellar lesion consistent with metastatic disease. Unfortunately, the prognosis for patients with TCC and CNS metastases is poor. Treatment options include debulking surgery, whole brain radiation, stereotactic radiosurgery and chemotherapy. Unfortunately, treatment may not appreciably extend survival and care is often supportive in previously reported cases. Though uncommon, TCC can metastasise to the CNS and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients, particularly those who were treated with aggressive surgery or combination chemotherapy previously.
Exceptional localisation of an ectopic parathyroid adenoma at the level of the hyoid bone
Authors: Musters Linde , van Ginhoven Tessa M , Smit Casper
Published: June 2014

Primary hyperparathyroidism is characterised by high parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels and concomitant hypercalcaemia. Ninety per cent is caused by solitary parathyroid adenomas, 10% by multiple adenomas, hyperplasia and carcinomas. Less than 0.1% of the inferior parathyroid glands are ectopically located. This case is of a 54-year-old woman with hypercalcaemia 3.05 mmol/L and high PTH 22 pmol/L. Scintigraphy and CT scan of the neck in 2009 showed no signs of ectopic tissue. After treatment with Aredia (pamidronate disodium) infusion, calcium decreased to 2.73 mmol/L. In 2010 the serum calcium levels increased again to 3 mmol/L. Repeated CT showed no ectopic tissue. However, revision of the CT by the multidisciplinary team including an experienced endocrine surgeon revealed an ectopic parathyroid gland at the level of the hyoid bone, which was surgically removed in 2011. Preoperatively the PTH level was 16.8 mmol/L, postoperatively it decreased to 2.9 mmol/L, proving a successful excision. In case of suspicion of a parathyroid adenoma a CT of the neck should be thoroughly assessed by a dedicated multidisciplinary team, including the head and neck surgeon, as clinical data and radiological findings must be combined since ectopic parathyroid adenomas are a rare entity. Thereafter the adenoma can be surgically removed and the patient cured.
Delayed onset panuveitis following intravitreal aflibercept injection
Authors: Glading Jodi A , Lake Stewart R , Craig Jamie E , Supramaniam Devaraj
Published: June 2014

Aflibercept has been listed on the Australian Pharmaceutical Benefit Scheme for the past year for neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Since that time there have not been any reports of delayed onset panuveitis. We present two cases of anterior and posterior uveitis that have occurred 4 weeks or more after first intravitreal injection of aflibercept. Both patients had received other vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors prior to aflibercept administration without signs of inflammation and both cases had sterile endophthalmitis. On resolution of the inflammation the patients were recommenced on ranibizumab without further incident.
Intracerebral bleed, right haemiparesis and seizures: an atypical presentation ofvivaxmalaria
Authors: Karanth Suman S , Marupudi Krishna Chaitanya , Gupta Anurag
Published: June 2014

Falciparummalaria is notoriously known to produce life-threatening complications. Despite growing reports of chloroquine resistance and severe disease,vivaxmalaria continues to be viewed as a benign disease. We report a rare case of a 47-year-old healthy man from a malaria-endemic region, presenting with intracerebral bleed, right haemiparesis, aphasia and seizures followingvivaxmalaria. This was successfully managed conservatively, without any neurosurgical intervention, with combination therapy of intravenous artesunate, oral hydroxychloquine and primaquine. In a country wherePlasmodium vivaxis responsible for majority of cases of malaria, it is high time the national malaria control programmes focus on the elimination ofP.vivaxin addition to its more dangerous counterpart,P.falciparum.
Oesophageal inflammatory paediatric chylothorax
Authors: Aherne Thomas , Cullen Paul , Mortell Alan , McGuinness Jonathan
Published: June 2014

Paediatric chylothoraces are rare, particularly outside the operative setting. Cases of spontaneous chylothorax are often demanding diagnostically and frequently associated with patient morbidity. We present a challenging case of paediatric chylothorax associated with inflammatory oesophageal perforation likely related to foreign body ingestion.
Incidence, prevalence and outcomes of rheumatic heart disease in South Africa: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Zühlke Liesl , Watkins David , Engel Mark E
Published: June 2014

Background

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is the principal cause of acquired heart disease affecting people living largely in poverty and deprived conditions. Sub-Saharan Africa was long thought to be the hotspot of the disease but recent reports suggest that this is no longer the case. South Africa is the leading economic force within this region yet contends with continued extreme income disparities. It is of interest to ascertain whether the strides that have been made in healthcare since the democratic transition in South Africa have translated into decreased RHD burden. We therefore propose to review the current best estimates of incidence of newly diagnosed RHD and prevalence of existing RHD within the past two decades. We also propose to characterise the fatal and non-fatal outcomes of RHD and identify any trends in this period.

Methods and design

We plan to search electronic databases and reference lists of relevant articles published from April 1994 to April 2014. Studies will be included if they estimated one of the following epidemiological measures: incidence, prevalence, remission rate, relative risk of mortality or cause-specific mortality. For studies deemed eligible for inclusion, we will assess overall study quality, reliability and risk of bias using design-specific criteria. We will extract data using a standardised form and perform descriptive and quantitative analysis to assess RHD prevalence, mortality and morbidity. This review protocol is registered in the PROSPERO International Prospective Register of systematic reviews, registration number CRD42014007072.

Dissemination

Our planned review will provide healthcare providers, public health officials and policymakers with pooled contemporary data regarding RHD, in particular regarding the effect the new political dispensation has had on the burden of this preventable disease within South Africa. In addition, these important country-specific data could influence policy decisions regarding prevention, management and control of RHD.
Glycaemic durability with dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors in type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of long-term randomised controlled trials
Authors: Esposito Katherine , Chiodini Paolo , Maiorino Maria Ida , Bellastella Giuseppe , Capuano Annalisa , Giugliano Dario
Published: June 2014

Objectives

To evaluate glycaemic durability with dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors in type 2 diabetes.

Design

A systematic review and meta-analysis of long-term randomised trials of DPP-4 inhibitors on haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) was conducted. Electronic searches were carried out on the following databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus and Web of Knowledge to December 2013. Searches were supplemented by a review of trial registries and references from identified trials. Trials were included if they lasted at least 76 weeks, and had intermediate and final assessments of HbA1c. Citations and full-text articles were screened by two reviewers. A random effect model was used to pool data.

Participants

Adults with type 2 diabetes.

Interventions

Any DPP-4 inhibitor (sitagliptin, vildagliptin, saxagliptin, linagliptin and alogliptin).

Outcome measures

The difference between final and intermediate HbA1c assessment was the primary outcome.

Results

We screened 461 citations and reviewed 12 articles reporting 12 trials in 14 829 participants. All trials were of 76 weeks duration at least. The difference in HbA1c changes between final and intermediate points averaged 0.22% (95% CI 0.15% to 0.29%), with high heterogeneity (I2=91%, p<0.0001). Estimates of differences were not affected by the analysis of six extension trials (0.24%, 0.02 to 0.46), or five trials in which a DPP-4 inhibitor was added to metformin (0.24%, 0.16 to 0.32).

Conclusions

There is evidence that the effect of DPP-4 inhibitors on HbA1c in type 2 diabetes significantly declines during the second year of treatment. Future research should focus on the characteristics of patients that benefit most from DPP-4 inhibitors in terms of glycaemic durability.
The association between objectively measured sitting and standing with body composition: a pilot study using MRI
Authors: Smith L , Thomas E L , Bell J D , Hamer M
Published: June 2014

Objective

To investigate the association between objectively measured sitting and standing, using a postural allocation technique, with MRI-assessed body composition.

Design

The present study was a cross-sectional pilot study.

Setting

Participants were examined at one centre located in London, UK.

Participants

Normal weight Caucasian women (30.9±6.1 years; body mass index (BMI), 22.9±3.4 kg/m2) with desk-bound occupations were recruited to minimise variability in body composition outcomes. A convenience sample of 12 women was recruited in January 2014 from University College London.

Outcome measures

For each participant a number of body composition variables were attained from a single whole-body MRI session. Main outcome variables included: total and liver adiposity, visceral/subcutaneous fat ratio and BMI. Main exposure variables included: average sitting time, standing:sitting ratio and step count. Pearson correlations were carried out to examine associations between different activity categories and body composition variables.

Results

There were significant correlations between average daily sitting and liver adiposity and visceral/subcutaneous abdominal fat ratio (r=0.66 and 0.64, respectively); standing:sitting ratio was moderately correlated with liver adiposity and visceral/subcutaneous abdominal fat ratio (r=−0.53 and −0.45); average daily step count was moderately correlated with liver adiposity, total adiposity and visceral/subcutaneous abdominal fat ratio (r=−0.45, −0.46 and −0.51, respectively).

Conclusions

This pilot study has provided preliminary evidence of relationships between objectively measured sitting and standing and precise measures of body composition.