bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bone Mineral Density, 25‐OH Vitamin D and Inflammation in Patients with Psoriasis
Authors: Solak Berna , Dikicier Bahar Sevimli , Celik Hanife Duzgun , Erdem Teoman
Published: February 2016

Background/Purpose

Low levels of vitamin D may play a role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis and is related to increased risk of osteoporosis. There are a few studies showing increased rate of osteoporosis in patients with psoriasis; however, none of them investigated impact of vitamin D levels and gender status together. We aimed to evaluate relationship between vitamin D and osteoporosis in psoriasis patients with an emphasis on gender difference.

Methods

Forty‐three psoriasis patients without arthritis and 41 healthy controls were enrolled. All patients were <50 years, and women were premenopausal. Participants were questioned about demographic features, sun exposure, regular physical exercise, and smoking status. The serum levels of 25‐OH vitamin D, calcium, phosphorus, C‐reactive protein, parathyroid hormone, total alkaline phosphatase, and sedimentation rate were measured. Body mass index was calculated. We determined the bone mineral density of the lumbar spine and femur using dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry.

Results

Femur neck Z score and lumbar spine total Z score were lower in psoriasis group than those of the control group. Additionally, total femoral Z score, lumbar spine total T, and Z scores were lower in female patients with psoriasis than female controls, whereas for male subjects there was not a remarkable difference between the groups. There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding vitamin D levels. The latter was significantly lower in psoriasis group than in controls for females; however, there was no significant difference between the two groups of males. Patients with psoriasis had higher CRP level and sedimentation rate, than control subjects. Female patients had also higher CRP level and sedimentation rate, than female controls, but there were no significant differences between male patients and controls.

Conclusion

As osteoporosis has multifactorial etiology, psoriasis may be among the triggering or facilitating factors for osteoporosis particularly in psoriatic women via several mechanisms such as low blood level of vitamin D and increased inflammation.
Differential characteristics of photochemical acclimation to cold in two contrasting sweet sorghum hybrids
Authors: Zegada‐Lizarazu Walter , Fernando Luna Dario , Monti Andrea
Published: February 2016

Sweet sorghum has a photosynthetic system which is highly sensitive to cold stress and hence strongly limits its development in temperate environments; therefore, the identification of key exploitable cold tolerance traits is imperative. From a preliminary field trial, two dissimilar sweet sorghum hybrids (ICSSH31 and Bulldozer), in terms of early vigor and productivity, were selected for a controlled‐environment trial aiming at identifying useful traits related to acclimation mechanisms to cold stress. The higher cold tolerance of Bulldozer was partially related to a more efficient photochemical regulation mechanism of the incoming light energy: the higher tolerance of photosystem II (PSII) to photo‐inactivation was because of a more effective dissipation capacity of the excess of energy and to a more balanced diversion of the absorbed energy into alternative energy sinks. ICSSH31 increased the dissipation and accumulation of a large amount of xanthophylls, as in Bulldozer, but, at the same time, inactivated the oxygen evolving complex and the re‐synthesis of chlorophyll (Chl) a and b, thus, leading to an overproduction of CO2 fixation enzymes after re‐warming. In summary, in Bulldozer, the acclimation adjustments of the photosynthetic apparatus occurred through an efficient control of energy transfer toward the reaction centers, and this likely allowed a more successful seedling establishment; ICSSH31, conversely, exhibited a fast re‐synthesis of Chl pigments, which appears to divert photosynthates from dry matter accumulation. Such broad acclimation traits may constitute a source for selecting higher genetic gain traits relevant for enlarging the growing season of promising biomass sorghum ideotypes in temperate climates.
Effects of meditation practice on spontaneous eyeblink rate
Authors: Kruis Ayla , Slagter Heleen A. , Bachhuber David R. W. , Davidson Richard J. , Lutz Antoine
Published: February 2016

A rapidly growing body of research suggests that meditation can change brain and cognitive functioning. Yet little is known about the neurochemical mechanisms underlying meditation‐related changes in cognition. Here, we investigated the effects of meditation on spontaneous eyeblink rates (sEBR), a noninvasive peripheral correlate of striatal dopamine activity. Previous studies have shown a relationship between sEBR and cognitive functions such as mind wandering, cognitive flexibility, and attention–functions that are also affected by meditation. We therefore expected that long‐term meditation practice would alter eyeblink activity. To test this, we recorded baseline sEBR and intereyeblink intervals (IEBI) in long‐term meditators (LTM) and meditation‐naive participants (MNP). We found that LTM not only blinked less frequently, but also showed a different eyeblink pattern than MNP. This pattern had good to high degree of consistency over three time points. Moreover, we examined the effects of an 8‐week course of mindfulness‐based stress reduction on sEBR and IEBI, compared to an active control group and a waitlist control group. No effect of short‐term meditation practice was found. Finally, we investigated whether different types of meditation differentially alter eyeblink activity by measuring sEBR and IEBI after a full day of two kinds of meditation practices in the LTM. No effect of meditation type was found. Taken together, these findings may suggest either that individual difference in dopaminergic neurotransmission is a self‐selection factor for meditation practice, or that long‐term, but not short‐term meditation practice induces stable changes in baseline striatal dopaminergic functioning.
Improving the Impact and Implementation of Disaster Education: Programs for Children Through Theory‐Based Evaluation
Authors: Johnson Victoria A. , Ronan Kevin R. , Johnston David M. , Peace Robin
Published: February 2016

A main weakness in the evaluation of disaster education programs for children is evaluators’ propensity to judge program effectiveness based on changes in children's knowledge. Few studies have articulated an explicit program theory of how children's education would achieve desired outcomes and impacts related to disaster risk reduction in households and communities. This article describes the advantages of constructing program theory models for the purpose of evaluating disaster education programs for children. Following a review of some potential frameworks for program theory development, including the logic model, the program theory matrix, and the stage step model, the article provides working examples of these frameworks. The first example is the development of a program theory matrix used in an evaluation of ShakeOut, an earthquake drill practiced in two Washington State school districts. The model illustrates a theory of action; specifically, the effectiveness of school earthquake drills in preventing injuries and deaths during disasters. The second example is the development of a stage step model used for a process evaluation of What's the Plan Stan?, a voluntary teaching resource distributed to all New Zealand primary schools for curricular integration of disaster education. The model illustrates a theory of use; specifically, expanding the reach of disaster education for children through increased promotion of the resource. The process of developing the program theory models for the purpose of evaluation planning is discussed, as well as the advantages and shortcomings of the theory‐based approaches.
Core Competencies in Geriatric Dentistry Fellowship Programs: a Delphi Study
Authors: Hogue Christie M. , Andrade Allen D. , Ruiz Jorge G. , Gibson Gretchen
Published: February 2016

Purpose/Objectives

The healthcare workforce is challenged with preparing for the increasing number of older persons and complexities of their healthcare needs. Fellowship trained geriatric dentists are charged with the task of addressing the dental needs of this vastly growing cohort.The purpose of this study is to formulate a set of competencies for Geriatric Dental Fellowship Training Programs.

Methods

The Delphi technique—a series of three rounds of anonymous questionnaires to obtain the opinions of experts without bringing them together.

Results

In Round 1, we proposed 45 competencies based on findings in previous literature. In Round 2, there were 19 respondents whose edits narrowed our list to 39 competencies proposed by the participants. In Round 3, based on group consensus we formulated a final list of 42 competencies.

Conclusion

Utilizing the Delphi process, a panel of geriatric dental experts identified a set of core competencies for curriculums in dental fellowship programs.
Towards engineering carboxysomes into C3 plants
Authors: Hanson Maureen R. , Lin Myat T. , Carmo‐Silva A. Elizabete , Parry Martin A.J.
Published: February 2016

Photosynthesis in C3 plants is limited by features of the carbon‐fixing enzyme Rubisco, which exhibits a low turnover rate and can react with O2instead ofCO2, leading to photorespiration. In cyanobacteria, bacterial microcompartments, known as carboxysomes, improve the efficiency of photosynthesis by concentratingCO2near the enzyme Rubisco. Cyanobacterial Rubisco enzymes are faster than those of C3 plants, though they have lower specificity towardCO2than the land plant enzyme. Replacement of land plant Rubisco by faster bacterial variants with lowerCO2specificity will improve photosynthesis only if a microcompartment capable of concentratingCO2can also be installed into the chloroplast. We review current information about cyanobacterial microcompartments and carbon‐concentrating mechanisms, plant transformation strategies, replacement of Rubisco in a model C3 plant with cyanobacterial Rubisco and progress toward synthesizing a carboxysome in chloroplasts.
Peridischarge prophylactic platelet transfusions after stem cell transplant: is a tranfusion trigger needed?
Authors: Meehan Kenneth R. , Sharma Purva , McKenna Dorothy R. , Dunbar Nancy M.
Published: February 2016

BACKGROUND

We examined the appropriateness of prophylactic peridischarge platelet (PLT) transfusions and the feasibility of lowering the prophylactic PLT transfusion threshold in transplant recipients within 24 hours of discharge at a National Cancer Institute–designated comprehensive cancer center.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

From April 2011 to June 2014, each prophylactic PLT transfusion that was administered to transplant recipients within 24 hours of discharge was identified. Each transfusion was reviewed to identify the indication and to determine if the transfusion adhered to institutional guidelines.

RESULTS

Of the 187 transplant patients identified, 44 patients received a prophylactic PLT transfusion within 24 hours of discharge. Of these 44 patients, transfusions were administered to fulfill a PLT count of 20 × 109/L required for discharge (n = 25 patients), for the removal of a tunneled central venous catheter (n = 16 patients), for active bleeding (n = 1 patient), or due to active anticoagulation (n = 2 patients).

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of PLT transfusions (95%) were appropriate, and only 5% were avoidable. If the prophylactic PLT transfusion threshold was decreased to 15 × 109/L from 20 × 109/L for central line removal and to fulfill discharge PLT count criteria, 41% of the currently appropriate PLT transfusions could have been avoided. These results suggest that a risk‐adapted method to select autologous transplant recipients for prophylactic PLT transfusions may be beneficial. A future study is needed to address this issue.
Expression levels of ABCG2 on cord red blood cells and study of fetal anemia associated with anti‐Jra
Authors: Fujita Satoko , Kashiwagi Hirokazu , Tomimatsu Takuji , Ito Shoichi , Mimura Kazuya , Kanagawa Takeshi , Endo Masayuki , Miyoshi Tomomitsu , Okamura Yasushi , Tani Yoshihiko , Tomiyama Yoshiaki , Kimura Tadashi
Published: February 2016

BACKGROUND

The Jra antigen of JR blood group systems is located on ABCG2 and Jr(a–) subjects whose red blood cells (RBCs) lack ABCG2 have been identified mostly among the Japanese. Although anti‐Jra can cause fetal anemia, little is known regarding its mechanism.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We reviewed clinical courses of all reported cases with fetal anemia due to anti‐Jra. We analyzed the ABCG2 expressions of cord RBCs at various gestational ages. We examined the effects of sera containing anti‐Jra from three pregnancies with fetal anemia or monoclonal anti‐Jra on erythropoiesis and phagocytosis. We also examined epitopes of anti‐Jra.

RESULTS

Case series suggested that the majority of fetal anemia with anti‐Jra may not be progressive in the later gestational ages. ABCG2 expression levels of cord RBCs were significantly higher than those of adults and neonates with high individual variation and gradually decreased with advancing gestational ages. Anti‐Jra did not significantly impact erythroid colony formation, although we detected a tendency toward the suppression of erythroid burst‐forming unit formation by anti‐Jra using feline marrow cells. Anti‐Jra did not induce phagocytosis of sensitized RBCs by monocytes. While many anti‐Jra recognized the same regions as a monoclonal anti‐ABCG2, 5D3, epitopes of anti‐Jra did not correlate with the incidence of fetal anemia.

CONCLUSION

ABCG2 expression levels in cord RBCs are higher than those of adults, and the change of ABCG2 expression in erythroid lineage cells may influence the clinical course of fetal anemia with anti‐Jra, although we could not detect significant effects of anti‐Jra on erythroid colony formation or phagocytosis.
Exploring the biophysical evidence that mammalian two‐pore channels are NAADP‐activated calcium‐permeable channels
Authors: Pitt Samantha J. , Reilly‐O'Donnell Benedict , Sitsapesan Rebecca
Published: February 2016

Nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP) potently releases Ca2+ from acidic intracellular endolysosomal Ca2+ stores. It is widely accepted that two types of two‐pore channels, termed TPC1 and TPC2, are responsible for the NAADP‐mediated Ca2+ release but the underlying mechanisms regulating their gating appear to be different. For example, although both TPC1 and TPC2 are activated by NAADP, TPC1 appears to be additionally regulated by cytosolic Ca2+. Ion conduction and permeability also differ markedly. TPC1 and TPC2 are permeable to a range of cations although biophysical experiments suggest that TPC2 is slightly more selective for Ca2+ over K+ than TPC1 and hence capable of releasing greater quantities of Ca2+ from acidic stores. TPC1 is also permeable to H+ and therefore may play a role in regulating lysosomal and cytosolic pH, possibly creating localised acidic domains. The significantly different gating and ion conducting properties of TPC1 and TPC2 suggest that these two ion channels may play complementary physiological roles as Ca2+‐release channels of the endolysosomal system.

image
Morphological and chemical changes of aerosolized E. coli treated with a dielectric barrier discharge
Authors: Romero-Mangado Jaione , Nordlund Dennis , Soberon Felipe , Deane Graham , Maughan Kevin , Sainio Sami , Singh Gurusharan , Daniels Stephen , Saunders Ian T. , Loftus David , Meyyappan M. , Koehne Jessica , Gandhiraman Ram P.
Published: February 2016

This study presents the morphological and chemical modification of the cell structure of aerosolized Escherichia coli treated with a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD). Exposure to DBD results in severe oxidation of the bacteria, leading to the formation of hydroxyl groups and carbonyl groups and a significant reduction in amine functionalities and phosphate groups. Near edge x-ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) measurements confirm the presence of additional oxide bonds upon DBD treatment, suggesting oxidation of the outer layer of the cell wall. Electron microscopy images show that the bacteria undergo physical distortion to varying degrees, resulting in deformation of the bacterial structure. The electromagnetic field around the DBD coil causes severe damage to the cell structure, possibly resulting in leakage of vital cellular materials. The oxidation and chemical modification of the bacterial components are evident from the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and NEXAFS results. The bacterial reculture experiments confirm inactivation of airborne E. coli upon treating with DBD.
Design and implementation of a custom built variable temperature stage for a secondary ion mass spectrometer
Authors: Giordani Andrew , Tuggle Jay , Hunter Jerry L.
Published: February 2016

The authors have built, designed, and implemented a variable temperature stage for a Cameca IMS 7f-GEO with an achievable temperature range of −150 to 300 °C and designed a new sample holder for rapid thermal stabilization. This paper focuses on the design and implementation aspects of the variable temperature stage in detail. The authors demonstrate applications where temperature control is useful for analyses that are not possible at room temperature.
Fano resonance scatterings in waveguides with impedance boundary conditions
Authors: Xiong Lei , Bi Wenping , Aurégan Yves
Published: February 2016

The resonance scattering theory is used to study the sound propagation in a waveguide with a portion of its wall lined by a locally reacting material. The objective is to understand the effects of the mode coupling in the lined portion on the transmission. It is shown that a zero in the transmission is present when a real resonance frequency of the open system, i.e., the lined portion of the waveguide that is coupled to the two semi-infinite rigid ducts, is equal to the incident frequency. This transmission zero occurs as a Fano resonance—due to the excitation of a trapped mode in the open system. The trapped mode is formed by the interferences of two neighbored modes with complex resonance frequencies. It is also linked to the avoided crossing of eigenvalues of these two modes that occurs near an exceptional point (a subject that has attracted much attention in recent years in different physical domains). The real and complex resonance frequencies of the open system are determined by an equivalent eigenvalue problem of matrix Heff, which describes the eigenvalue problem defined in the finite lined portion (scattering region). With the aid of the eigenvalues and eigenfunctions of matrix Heff, the usual acoustic resonance scattering formula can be extended to describe the coupling effects between the scattering region and the rigid parts of the waveguide.
Triumph for gravitational wave hunt
Authors: Cho Adrian
Published: February 2016

Observation made with newly detectable radiation clinches case for black holes.
Research chief cuts climate studies, sets new priorities
Authors: Dayton Leigh
Published: February 2016

CSIRO to trim staff as it seeks closer alignment with industry.
Hard-core sequencing
Authors: Dove Alan
Published: February 2016

graded for easy DNA sequencing is a minor annoyance. They simply prepare another, better sample from the abundant source material they have on hand in cultured cells, laboratory animals, or a freezer full of tissues. But what if the only available specimen is an arsenic-preserved pelt from 150 years ago, a pile of mummified dung found in a cave, or a single formalin-fixed pathology slide? As sequencing technology steadily improves, such irremediably difficult samples have gradually begun yielding usable sequences.
mTORC1 induces purine synthesis through control of the mitochondrial tetrahydrofolate cycle
Authors: Ben-Sahra Issam , Hoxhaj Gerta , Ricoult Stéphane J. H. , Asara John M. , Manning Brendan D.
Published: February 2016

Controlling supplies for DNA and RNA synthesis

The mTORC1 protein kinase complex regulates anabolic metabolism and coordinates cellular signals that promote growth with availability of required precursor metabolites. Signaling through mTORC1 controls pyrimidine synthesis. Ben-Sahra
et al.
found that mTORC1 also functions by a different mechanism to regulate purine biosynthesis, thus generating precursors for the synthesis of RNA and DNA (see the Perspective by Ma and Jones). Signaling by mTORC1 caused accumulation of the transcription factor ATF4, which enhances production of the enzyme methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase 2, thus leading to increased production of the purine nucleotides needed for cell growth.

Science
, this issue p.
728
; see also p.
670
MTAP
deletion confers enhanced dependency on the PRMT5 arginine methyltransferase in cancer cells
Authors: Kryukov Gregory V. , Wilson Frederick H. , Ruth Jason R. , Paulk Joshiawa , Tsherniak Aviad , Marlow Sara E. , Vazquez Francisca , Weir Barbara A. , Fitzgerald Mark E. , Tanaka Minoru , Bielski Craig M. , Scott Justin M. , Dennis Courtney , Cowley Glenn S. , Boehm Jesse S. , Root David E. , Golub Todd R. , Clish Clary B. , Bradner James E. , Hahn William C. , Garraway Levi A.
Published: February 2016

Tumors put in a vulnerable position

Cancer cells often display alterations in metabolism that help fuel their growth. Such metabolic “rewiring” may also work against the cancer cells, however, by creating new vulnerabilities that can be exploited therapeutically. A variety of human tumors show changes in methionine metabolism caused by loss of the gene coding for 5-methylthioadenosine phosphorylase (MTAP). Mavrakis
et al.
and Kryukov
et al.
found that the loss of MTAP renders cancer cell lines sensitive to growth inhibition by compounds that suppress the activity of a specific arginine methyltransferase called PRMT5. Conceivably, drugs that inhibit PRMT5 activity could be developed into a tailored therapy for MTAP-deficient tumors.

Science
, this issue pp.
1208
and
1214
Single-vesicle imaging reveals different transport mechanisms between glutamatergic and GABAergic vesicles
Authors: Farsi Zohreh , Preobraschenski Julia , van den Bogaart Geert , Riedel Dietmar , Jahn Reinhard , Woehler Andrew
Published: February 2016

Neurotransmitter uptake one vesicle at a time

Despite opposing ionic gradients, synaptic vesicles are able to accumulate neurotransmitters. To resolve the mystery of how this happens, Farsi
et al.
made parallel measurements of pH gradients and membrane potential at the single synaptic vesicle level. Glutamatergic and GABAergic vesicles had different uptake mechanisms, revealing insights into the energetic and ionic coupling of vesicular neurotransmitter transport.

Science
, this issue p.
981
It takes teamwork to modify chromatin
Authors: Workman Jerry L.
Published: February 2016

The organization of constituents in a large chromatin-modifying complex reveals specific roles

[Also see Report by

Morgan
et al.

]
Draft Genome Sequence of the Fish Pathogen Mycobacterium pseudoshottsii Strain JCM15466, a Species Closely Related to M. marinum
Authors: Hikima Jun-ichi , Sakai Masahiro , Aoki Takashi , Takeyama Haruko , Hawke John , Mori Kazuki , Tashiro Kosuke , Kuhara Satoru
Published: February 2016

Mycobacterium pseudoshottsiiis a slowly growing photochromogenic mycobacterium and fish pathogen isolated from wild marine fishes.M. pseudoshottsiiclosely resemblesM. marinum, which is a human and animal pathogen. Here, we report the draft genome sequence ofM. pseudoshottsiistrain JCM15466, originally isolated from striped bass,Morone saxatilis.
Draft Genome Sequences of Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli Encoding Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamases
Authors: Valat Charlotte , Goldstone Robert J. , Hirchaud Edouard , Haenni Marisa , Smith David G. E. , Madec Jean-Yves
Published: February 2016

Extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) have rarely been observed among Shiga toxigenic
Escherichia coli
(STEC), and, to our best knowledge, only three ESBL-positive isolates of the enterohemorrhagic
E. coli
(EHEC) subpathotype have been reported. Here, we present the first draft genome sequences of two ESBL-positive EHEC isolates belonging to serotypes O111:H8 and O151:H16.
Draft Genome Sequence of a Klebsiella pneumoniae Carbapenemase-Positive Sequence Type 111 Pseudomonas aeruginosa Strain
Authors: Dotson Gabrielle A. ,   NISC Comparative Sequencing Program, Dekker John P. , Palmore Tara N. , Segre Julia A. , Conlan Sean
Published: February 2016

Here, we report the draft genome sequence of a sequence type 111
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
strain isolated in 2014 from a patient at the NIH Clinical Center. This
P. aeruginosa
strain exhibits pan-drug resistance and harbors the
bla
KPC-2 gene, encoding the
Klebsiella pneumoniae
carbapenemase enzyme, on a plasmid.
Complete Genome Sequence of Lactobacillus acidophilus MN-BM-F01
Authors: Yang Lan , Chen Yun , Li Zhiwei , Shi Yudong , Li Zhouyong , Zhao Xiaohui
Published: February 2016

Lactobacillus acidophilus
MN-BM-F01 was originally isolated from a traditional fermented dairy product in China. The characteristics of this bacterium are its low post-acidification ability and high acid-producing rate. Here, we report the main genome features of
L. acidophilus
MN-BM-F01.
Draft Genome Sequence of Proteus mirabilis NO-051/03, Representative of a Multidrug-Resistant Clone Spreading in Europe and Expressing the CMY-16 AmpC-Type β-Lactamase
Authors: D'Andrea Marco Maria , Giani Tommaso , Henrici De Angelis Lucia , Ciacci Nagaia , Gniadkowski Marek , Miriagou Vivi , Torricelli Francesca , Rossolini Gian Maria
Published: February 2016

Proteus mirabilis
NO-051/03, representative of a multidrug-resistant clone expressing the CMY-16 AmpC-type β-lactamase and circulating in Europe since 2003, was sequenced by a MiSeq platform using a paired-end approach. The genome was assembled in 100 scaffolds with a total length of 4,197,318 bp. Analysis of the draft genome sequence revealed the presence of several acquired resistance determinants to β-lactams, aminoglycosides, phenicols, tetracyclines, trimethoprim, and sulfonamides, of one plasmid replicon, and of a type I-E clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)-associated protein (Cas) adaptive immune system.
Draft Genome Sequences of Two Strains of Xanthomonas arboricola pv. celebensis Isolated from Banana Plants
Authors: Harrison James , Grant Murray R. , Studholme David J.
Published: February 2016

We report here the annotated draft genome sequences of strains
Xanthomonas arboricola
pv. celebensis NCPPB 1832 and NCPPB 1630 (NCPPB, National Collection of Plant Pathogenic Bacteria), both isolated from
Musa
species in New Zealand. This will allow the comparison of genomes between phylogenetically distant xanthomonads that have independently converged with the ability to colonize banana plants.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Sphingomonas
sp. WG, a Welan Gum-Producing Strain
Authors: Li Hui , Feng Zhi-mei , Sun Ya-jie , Zhou Wan-long , Jiao Xue , Zhu Hu
Published: February 2016

We report the draft genome sequence of
Sphingomonas
sp. WG, a high welan gum-producing strain with a yield of 33 g/L. The core of
wel
cluster for welan gum biosynthesis contained 24 coding sequences in the genome, which will provide the genetic information on welan gum production.
Draft Genome Sequence of Uncultured SAR324 Bacterium lautmerah10, Binned from a Red Sea Metagenome
Authors: Haroon Mohamed F. , Thompson Luke R. , Stingl Ulrich
Published: February 2016

A draft genome of SAR324 bacterium lautmerah10 was assembled from a metagenome of a surface water sample from the Red Sea, Saudi Arabia. The genome is more complete and has a higher G+C content than that of previously sequenced SAR324 representatives. Its genomic information shows a versatile metabolism that confers an advantage to SAR324, which is reflected in its distribution throughout different depths of the marine water column.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Syntrophic Lactate-Degrading Bacterium Tepidanaerobacter syntrophicus JL
T
Authors: Matsuura Norihisa , Ohashi Akiko , Tourlousse Dieter M. , Sekiguchi Yuji
Published: February 2016

We report here a high-quality draft genome sequence of the type strain (JL) of
Tepidanaerobacter syntrophicus
, an obligately anaerobic and moderately thermophilic bacterium, which is able to perform syntrophic lactate degradation with hydrogenotrophic methanogens. The genome comprises 2.43 Mb in 9 scaffolds, with a G+C content of 38.6%.
Draft Genome Sequence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis KT-0133, Isolated in South Korea
Authors: Kwon Taesoo , Han Seung Jung , Yoo Won Gi , Yun Mi-ran , Lee Sanghyun , Lee Jong Seok , Kim Dae-Won
Published: February 2016

Here, we present the draft genome sequence of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
KT-0133, which belongs to the Korean-Beijing family. This sequence will provide a new perspective on the evolution and accommodation of
M. tuberculosis
KT-0133 in human hosts.
Genome Sequence of Bacillus pumilus Strain Bonn, Isolated from an Anthrax-Like Necrotic Skin Infection Site of a Child
Authors: Grass Gregor , Bierbaum Gabriele , Molitor Ernst , Götte Natascha , Antwerpen Markus
Published: February 2016

We report the draft genome sequence of
Bacillus pumilus
strain Bonn associated with human skin infection.
B. pumilus
Bonn was isolated from a carbuncle-like necrotic site, resembling cutaneous anthrax, on the back of the hand of a 10-year-old child.
Dasatinib improves insulin sensitivity and affects lipid metabolism in a patient with chronic myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Iizuka Katsumi , Niwa Hiroyuki , Kato Takehiro , Takeda Jun
Published: February 2016

A 65-year-old woman had been visiting our department for the treatment of type-2 diabetes mellitus since December 2012. Her glycated haemoglobin levels were well controlled (≈5.8% (40 mmol/mol)) by metformin (500 mg). In July 2014, her white cell count increased suddenly to 33 530 cells/μL and she was diagnosed with Ph+ chronic myeloid leukaemia. She was started on dasatinib (100 mg), which immediately normalised plasma levels of WCC. Dasatinib improved the glycaemic index to <6.0% and also improved plasma levels of triglycerides (TGs) and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-c). Levels of low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol were increased but remained within the normal range. The TG:HDL-c ratio and Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index rapidly improved. Followed by an improvement in insulin sensitivity, plasma levels of adiponectin and leptin were increased. This case study suggests that dasatinib might have positive as well as negative effects on the metabolism of glucose and lipids.
New South Wales Child Development Study (NSW-CDS): an Australian multiagency, multigenerational, longitudinal record linkage study
Authors: Carr Vaughan J , Harris Felicity , Raudino Alessandra , Luo Luming , Kariuki Maina , Liu Enwu , Tzoumakis Stacy , Smith Maxwell , Holbrook Allyson , Bore Miles , Brinkman Sally , Lenroot Rhoshel , Dix Katherine , Dean Kimberlie , Laurens Kristin R , Green Melissa J
Published: February 2016

Purpose

The initial aim of this multiagency, multigenerational record linkage study is to identify childhood profiles of developmental vulnerability and resilience, and to identify the determinants of these profiles. The eventual aim is to identify risk and protective factors for later childhood-onset and adolescent-onset mental health problems, and other adverse social outcomes, using subsequent waves of record linkage. The research will assist in informing the development of public policy and intervention guidelines to help prevent or mitigate adverse long-term health and social outcomes.

Participants

The study comprises a population cohort of 87 026 children in the Australian State of New South Wales (NSW). The cohort was defined by entry into the first year of full-time schooling in NSW in 2009, at which time class teachers completed the Australian Early Development Census (AEDC) on each child (with 99.7% coverage in NSW). The AEDC data have been linked to the children's birth, health, school and child protection records for the period from birth to school entry, and to the health and criminal records of their parents, as well as mortality databases.

Findings to date

Descriptive data summarising sex, geographic and socioeconomic distributions, and linkage rates for the various administrative databases are presented. Child data are summarised, and the mental health and criminal records data of the children's parents are provided.

Future plans

In 2015, at age 11 years, a self-report mental health survey was administered to the cohort in collaboration with government, independent and Catholic primary school sectors. A second record linkage, spanning birth to age 11 years, will be undertaken to link this survey data with the aforementioned administrative databases. This will enable a further identification of putative risk and protective factors for adverse mental health and other outcomes in adolescence, which can then be tested in subsequent record linkages.
Development of a clinical prediction rule to improve peripheral intravenous cannulae first attempt success in the emergency department and reduce post insertion failure rates: the Vascular Access Decisions in the Emergency Room (VADER) study protocol
Authors: Carr Peter J , Rippey James C R , Cooke Marie L , Bharat Chrianna , Murray Kevin , Higgins Niall S , Foale Aileen , Rickard Claire M
Published: February 2016

Introduction

Peripheral intravenous cannula (PIVC) insertion is one of the most common clinical interventions performed in emergency care worldwide. However, factors associated with successful PIVC placement and maintenance are not well understood. This study seeks to determine the predictors of first time PIVC insertion success in emergency department (ED) and identify the rationale for removal of the ED inserted PIVC in patients admitted to the hospital ward. Reducing failed insertion attempts and improving peripheral intravenous cannulation practice could lead to better staff and patient experiences, as well as improving hospital efficiency.

Methods and analysis

We propose an observational cohort study of PIVC insertions in a patient population presenting to ED, with follow-up observation of the PIVC in subsequent admissions to the hospital ward. We will collect specific PIVC observational data such as; clinician factors, patient factors, device information and clinical practice variables. Trained researchers will gather ED PIVC insertion data to identify predictors of insertion success. In those admitted from the ED, we will determine the dwell time of the ED-inserted PIVC. Multivariate regression analyses will be used to identify factors associated with insertions success and PIVC failure and standard statistical validation techniques will be used to create and assess the effectiveness of a clinical predication rule.

Ethics and dissemination

The findings of our study will provide new evidence to improve insertion success rates in the ED setting and identify strategies to reduce premature device failure for patients admitted to hospital wards. Results will unravel a complexity of factors that contribute to unsuccessful PIVC attempts such as patient and clinician factors along with the products, technologies and infusates used.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12615000588594; Pre-results.
Decision analytic model exploring the cost and cost-offset implications of street triage
Authors: Heslin Margaret , Callaghan Lynne , Packwood Martin , Badu Vincent , Byford Sarah
Published: February 2016

Objectives

To determine if street triage is effective at reducing the total number of people with mental health needs detained under section 136, and is associated with cost savings compared to usual police response.

Design

Routine data from a 6-month period in the year before and after the implementation of a street triage scheme were used to explore detentions under section 136, and to populate a decision analytic model to explore the impact of street triage on the cost to the NHS and the criminal justice sector of supporting people with a mental health need.

Setting

A predefined area of Sussex, South East England, UK.

Participants

All people who were detained under section 136 within the predefined area or had contact with the street triage team.

Interventions

The street triage model used here was based on a psychiatric nurse attending incidents with a police constable.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcome was change in the total number of detentions under section 136 between the before and after periods assessed. Secondary analysis focused on whether the additional costs of street triage were offset by cost savings as a result of changes in detentions under section 136.

Results

Detentions under section 136 in the street triage period were significantly lower than in the usual response period (118 vs 194 incidents, respectively; χ2(1df) 18.542, p<0.001). Total NHS and criminal justice costs were estimated to be £1043 in the street triage period compared to £1077 in the usual response period.

Conclusions

Investment in street triage was offset by savings as a result of reduced detentions under section 136, particularly detentions in custody. Data available did not include assessment of patient outcomes, so a full economic evaluation was not possible.
Difficulties arising from the variety of testing schemes used for bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV)
Authors: Duncan A. J. , Gunn G. J. , Humphry R. W.
Published: February 2016

Globally, the eradication of bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV) is still in its infancy, but eradication has been, or is being, adopted by several countries or regions. Comparisons between countries’ schemes allow others to assess best practice, and aggregating published results from eradication schemes provides greater statistical power when analysing data. Aggregating data requires that results derived from different testing schemes be calibrated against one another. The authors aimed to evaluate whether relationships between published BVDV test results could be created and present the outcome of a systematic literature review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines. The results are tabulated, providing a summary of papers where there is potential cross‐calibration and a summary of the obstacles preventing such data aggregation. Although differences in measuring BVDV present barriers to academic progress, they may also affect progress within individual eradication schemes. The authors examined the time taken to retest following an initial antibody BVDV test in the Scottish eradication scheme. The authors demonstrate that retesting occurred quicker if the initial not negative test was from blood rather than milk samples. Such differences in the response of farmers/veterinarians to tests may be of interest to the design of future schemes.
Renoprotective effects of aliskiren on adenine-induced tubulointerstitial nephropathy: possible underlying mechanisms
Authors: Hussein Abdelaziz M. , Malek Hala Abdel , Saad Mohamed-Ahdy
Published: February 2016

The present study investigated the possible renoprotective effect of direct renin inhibitor (aliskiren) on renal dysfunctions, as well as its underlying mechanisms in rat model of adenine-induced tubulointerstitial nephropathy. Forty male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into 4 groups; normal group, aliskiren group (normal rats received 10 mg/kg aliskiren), adenine group (animals received high-adenine diet for 4 weeks and saline for 12 weeks), and adenine + aliskiren group (animals received adenine for 4 weeks and aliskiren 10 mg/kg for 12 weeks). It was found that adenine caused significant decrease in body mass, Hb, HR, serum Ca2+, eNOS and nrf2 expression, GSH, and catalase in kidney tissues with significant increase in arterial blood pressure (ABP), serum creatinine, BUN, plasma renin activity (PRA), K+and P, urinary albumin excretion (UAE), caspase-3, and MDA (lipid peroxidation marker) in kidney tissues compared to normal group (p < 0.05). Administration of aliskiren caused significant improvement in all studied parameters compared to adenine group (p < 0.05). We concluded that aliskiren has renoprotective effect against adenine-induced nephropathy. This might be due to inhibition of PRA, attenuation of oxidative stress, activation of Nrf2 and eNOS genes, and suppression of caspase-3.
Association of pentraxin 3 with insulin resistance and glucose response following maximal aerobic exercise in obese and normal-mass individuals
Authors: Slusher Aaron L. , Huang Chun-Jung
Published: February 2016

Pentraxin 3 (PTX3), a cardioprotective protein, has recently been shown to be associated with improved insulin resistance (IR) and glucose metabolism. Therefore, the primary purpose of this study was to examine whether or not increased plasma PTX3 following maximal aerobic exercise would differ between obese and normal-mass subjects, and its association with the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and glucose response. Twenty-five untrained obese (n = 13 [6 males and 7 females]) and normal-mass (n = 12 [5 males and 7 females]) subjects performed an acute bout of maximal aerobic exercise to assess maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max). At baseline, plasma PTX3 concentrations are decreased in obese compared with normal-mass subjects and are negatively associated with plasma insulin and HOMA-IR values. In response to maximal exercise, plasma PTX3 responses were similar in obese and normal-mass subjects while the intensity of plasma PTX3 response as indicated by area under the curve analysis (AUCi) was not associated with HOMA-IR or glucose AUCi. However, PTX3 AUCi was positively associated with cardiorespiratory fitness levels (relative VO2max). These findings suggest that PTX3 could serve as a biomarker for both metabolic health, as well as a measurement to monitor the effectiveness of exercise interventions in obesity.
Quaternary glacial history of the Cantabrian Mountains of northern Spain: a new synthesis
Authors: Serrano Enrique , González-Trueba Juan José , Pellitero Ramón , Gómez-Lende Manuel
Published: February 2016

Recent dating and morphostratigraphical studies on glaciations in the Cantabrian Mountains permit a first reconstruction of the glacial evolution of the area. Located in the north of the Iberian Peninsula, between the Atlantic coast and the inner Mediterranean upland of the Duero basin, the mountains were occupied by ice fields as well as alpine and cirque glaciers during the Pleistocene. Five glacial phases can be distinguished, four belonging to the last Pleistocene glacial cycle and one historical in the Little Ice Age (LIA). Pre-maximum phases (predating the Late Pleistocene glacier maximum), identified at only three places, need more data before they can be more fully understood. The maximum glacial advance (RGM or SI) of the Pleistocene glaciers occurred at around 48–35 ka, before the global Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). A period of later glacial equilibrium (SII), which was a colder but drier phase, occurred just after the LGM (deglaciation ages ranging from 25 to 18 cal ka BP). The different glacial behaviour of the Cantabrian Mountains can be explained by orographic barrier effects: a more southerly circulation of atmospheric currents with more frequent southwesterly flows feeding snowfall towards the southern massifs. An ‘altitude stage’ (SIII) represented by small glaciers located in the cirques – and mainly those orientated to the north – exists in many massifs. Finally, LIA glaciers were only present in the Picos de Europa.
Chronic central serotonin depletion attenuates ventilation and body temperature in young but not adult Tph2 knockout rats
Authors: Kaplan Kara , Echert Ashley E. , Massat Ben , Puissant Madeleine M. , Palygin Oleg , Geurts Aron M. , Hodges Matthew R.
Published: February 2016

Genetic deletion of brain serotonin (5-HT) neurons in mice leads to ventilatory deficits and increased neonatal mortality during development. However, it is unclear if the loss of the 5-HT neurons or the loss of the neurochemical 5-HT led to the observed physiologic deficits. Herein, we generated a mutant rat model with constitutive central nervous system (CNS) 5-HT depletion by mutation of the tryptophan hydroxylase 2 ( Tph2) gene in dark agouti (DATph2−/−) rats. DATph2−/−rats lacked TPH immunoreactivity and brain 5-HT but retain dopa decarboxylase-expressing raphe neurons. Mutant rats were also smaller, had relatively high mortality (∼50%), and compared with controls had reduced room air ventilation and body temperatures at specific postnatal ages. In adult rats, breathing at rest and hypoxic and hypercapnic chemoreflexes were unaltered in adult male and female DATph2−/−rats. Body temperature was also maintained in adult DATph2−/−rats exposed to 4°C, indicating unaltered ventilatory and/or thermoregulatory control mechanisms. Finally, DATph2−/−rats treated with the 5-HT precursor 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) partially restored CNS 5-HT and showed increased ventilation ( P < 0.05) at a developmental age when it was otherwise attenuated in the mutants. We conclude that constitutive CNS production of 5-HT is critically important to fundamental homeostatic control systems for breathing and temperature during postnatal development in the rat.
Cytosolic calcium transients are a determinant of contraction-induced HSP72 transcription in single skeletal muscle fibers
Authors: Stary Creed M. , Hogan Michael C.
Published: February 2016

The intrinsic activating factors that induce transcription of heat shock protein 72 (HSP72) in skeletal muscle following exercise remain unclear. We hypothesized that the cytosolic Ca2+ transient that occurs with depolarization is a determinant. We utilized intact, single skeletal muscle fibers from Xenopus laevis to test the role of the cytosolic Ca2+ transient and several other exercise-related factors (fatigue, hypoxia, AMP kinase, and cross-bridge cycling) on the activation of HSP72 transcription. HSP72 and HSP60 mRNA levels were assessed with real-time quantitative PCR; cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]cyt) was assessed with fura-2. Both fatiguing and nonfatiguing contractions resulted in a significant increase in HSP72 mRNA. As expected, peak [Ca2+]cyt remained tightly coupled with peak developed tension in contracting fibers. Pretreatment with N-benzyl- p-toluene sulfonamide (BTS) resulted in depressed peak developed tension with stimulation, while peak [Ca2+]cyt remained largely unchanged from control values. Despite excitation-contraction uncoupling, BTS-treated fibers displayed a significant increase in HSP72 mRNA. Treatment of fibers with hypoxia (Po2: <3 mmHg) or AMP kinase activation had no effect on HSP72 mRNA levels. These results suggest that the intermittent cytosolic Ca2+ transient that occurs with skeletal muscle depolarization provides a sufficient activating stimulus for HSP72 transcription. Metabolic or mechanical factors associated with fatigue development and cross-bridge cycling likely play a more limited role.