bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Advancing Health-Related Cluster Analysis Methodology: Quantification of Pairwise Activity Cluster Similarities
Authors: Ferrar Katia , Maher Carol , Petkov John , Olds Tim 
Published: May 2014

Background:To date, most health-related time-use research has investigated behaviors in isolation; more recently, however, researchers have begun to conceptualize behaviors in the form of multidimensional patterns or clusters.Methods:The study employed 2 techniques: radar graphs and centroid vector length, angles and distance to quantify pairwise time-use cluster similarities among adolescents living in Australia (N = 1853) and in New Zealand (N = 679).Results:Based on radar graph shape, 2 pairs of clusters were similar for both boys and girls. Using vector angles (VA), vector length (VL) and centroid distances (CD), 1 pair for each sex was considered most similar (boys: VA = 63°, VL = 44 and 50 units, and CD = 48 units; girls: VA = 23°, VL = 65 and 85 units, and CD = 36 units). Both methods employed to determine similarity had strengths and weaknesses. Conclusions: The description and quantification of cluster similarity is an important step in the research process. An ability to track and compare clusters may provide greater understanding of complex multidimensional relationships, and in relation to health behavior clusters, present opportunities to monitor and to intervene.
Misidentification of Neosartorya pseudofischeri as Aspergillus fumigatus in a Lung Transplant Patient
Authors: Khare Reeti , Gupta Sounak , Arif Sana , Jentoft Mark E. , Deziel Paul J. , Roden Anja C. , Wilhelm Mark P. , Razonable Raymund R. , Wengenack Nancy L. 
Published: May 2014

ABSTRACT

We present a case of disseminated
Neosartorya pseudofischeri
infection in a bilateral lung transplant patient with cystic fibrosis. The organism was originally misidentified from respiratory specimens as
Aspergillus fumigatus
using colonial and microscopic morphology. DNA sequencing subsequently identified the organism correctly as
N. pseudofischeri
.
Coordinating Bacterial Cell Division with Nutrient Availability: a Role for Glycolysis
Authors: Monahan Leigh G. , Hajduk Isabella V. , Blaber Sinead P. , Charles Ian G. , Harry Elizabeth J. 
Published: May 2014

ABSTRACT

Cell division in bacteria is driven by a cytoskeletal ring structure, the Z ring, composed of polymers of the tubulin-like protein FtsZ. Z-ring formation must be tightly regulated to ensure faithful cell division, and several mechanisms that influence the positioning and timing of Z-ring assembly have been described. Another important but as yet poorly understood aspect of cell division regulation is the need to coordinate division with cell growth and nutrient availability. In this study, we demonstrated for the first time that cell division is intimately linked to central carbon metabolism in the model Gram-positive bacterium
Bacillus subtilis
. We showed that a deletion of the gene encoding pyruvate kinase (
pyk
), which produces pyruvate in the final reaction of glycolysis, rescues the assembly defect of a temperature-sensitive
ftsZ
mutant and has significant effects on Z-ring formation in wild-type
B. subtilis
cells. Addition of exogenous pyruvate restores normal division in the absence of the pyruvate kinase enzyme, implicating pyruvate as a key metabolite in the coordination of bacterial growth and division. Our results support a model in which pyruvate levels are coupled to Z-ring assembly via an enzyme that actually metabolizes pyruvate, the E1α subunit of pyruvate dehydrogenase. We have shown that this protein localizes over the nucleoid in a pyruvate-dependent manner and may stimulate more efficient Z-ring formation at the cell center under nutrient-rich conditions, when cells must divide more frequently.

IMPORTANCE
How bacteria coordinate cell cycle processes with nutrient availability and growth is a fundamental yet unresolved question in microbiology. Recent breakthroughs have revealed that nutritional information can be transmitted directly from metabolic pathways to the cell cycle machinery and that this can serve as a mechanism for fine-tuning cell cycle processes in response to changes in environmental conditions. Here we identified a novel link between glycolysis and cell division in
Bacillus subtilis
. We showed that pyruvate, the final product of glycolysis, plays an important role in maintaining normal division. Nutrient-dependent changes in pyruvate levels affect the function of the cell division protein FtsZ, most likely by modifying the activity of an enzyme that metabolizes pyruvate, namely, pyruvate dehydrogenase E1α. Ultimately this system may help to coordinate bacterial division with nutritional conditions to ensure the survival of newborn cells.
The Heterocyst-Specific NsiR1 Small RNA Is an Early Marker of Cell Differentiation in Cyanobacterial Filaments
Authors: Muro-Pastor Alicia M. 
Published: May 2014

ABSTRACT

Differentiation of single cells along filaments of cyanobacteria constitutes one of the simplest developmental patterns in nature. In response to nitrogen deficiency, certain cells located in a semiregular pattern along filaments differentiate into specialized nitrogen-fixing cells called heterocysts. The process involves the sequential activation of many genes whose expression takes place, either exclusively or at least more strongly, in those cells undergoing differentiation. In the model cyanobacterium
Anabaena
(
Nostoc
) sp. strain PCC 7120, increased transcription of
hetR
, considered the earliest detectable heterocyst-specific transcript, has been reported to occur in pairs or even in clusters of cells, thus making it difficult to identify prospective heterocysts during the early stages of differentiation, before any morphological change is detectable. The promoter of
nsiR1
(nitrogen stress inducible RNA1), a heterocyst-specific small RNA, constitutes a minimal sequence promoting heterocyst-specific transcription. Using confocal fluorescence microscopy, I have analyzed expression of a
gfp
reporter transcriptionally fused to P

nsiR1

. The combined analysis of green fluorescence (reporting transcriptional activity from P

nsiR1

) and red fluorescence (an indication of progress in the differentiation of individual cells) shows that expression of P

nsiR1

takes place in single cells located in a semiregular pattern before any other morphological or fluorescence signature of differentiation can be observed, thus providing an early marker for cells undergoing differentiation.

IMPORTANCE
Cyanobacterial filaments containing heterocysts constitute an example of bacterial division of labor. When using atmospheric nitrogen, these filaments behave as multicellular organisms in which two different cell types (vegetative cells and nitrogen-fixing heterocysts) coexist and cooperate to achieve growth of the filament as a whole. The molecular basis governing the differentiation of individual vegetative cells, and thus the establishment of a one-dimensional pattern from cells that are apparently the same, remains one of the most intriguing aspects of this differentiation process. Recent evidence suggests that, at any given time, some cells in the filaments are more likely than others to become heterocysts when nitrogen limitation is encountered. The robust heterocyst-specific
nsiR1
promoter, which is induced very early during differentiation, provides a valuable tool to analyze issues such as early candidacy or the possible role of transcriptional noise in determining the fate of specific cells in cyanobacterial filaments.
Efficient Gene Disruption in Diverse Strains of Toxoplasma gondii Using CRISPR/CAS9
Authors: Shen Bang , Brown Kevin M. , Lee Tobie D. , Sibley L. David 
Published: May 2014

ABSTRACT

Toxoplasma gondii
has become a model for studying the phylum Apicomplexa, in part due to the availability of excellent genetic tools. Although reverse genetic tools are available in a few widely utilized laboratory strains, they rely on special genetic backgrounds that are not easily implemented in natural isolates. Recent progress in modifying CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats), a system of DNA recognition used as a defense mechanism in bacteria and archaea, has led to extremely efficient gene disruption in a variety of organisms. Here we utilized a CRISPR/CAS9-based system with single guide RNAs to disrupt genes in
T. gondii
. CRISPR/CAS9 provided an extremely efficient system for targeted gene disruption and for site-specific insertion of selectable markers through homologous recombination. CRISPR/CAS9 also facilitated site-specific insertion in the absence of homology, thus increasing the utility of this approach over existing technology. We then tested whether CRISPR/CAS9 would enable efficient transformation of a natural isolate. Using CRISPR/CAS9, we were able to rapidly generate both
rop18
knockouts and complemented lines in the type I GT1 strain, which has been used for forward genetic crosses but which remains refractory to reverse genetic approaches. Assessment of their phenotypes
in vivo
revealed that ROP18 contributed a greater proportion to acute pathogenesis in GT1 than in the laboratory type I RH strain. Thus, CRISPR/CAS9 extends reverse genetic techniques to diverse isolates of
T. gondii
, allowing exploration of a much wider spectrum of biological diversity.

IMPORTANCE
Genetic approaches have proven very powerful for studying the biology of organisms, including microbes. However, ease of genetic manipulation varies widely among isolates, with common lab isolates often being the most amenable to such approaches. Unfortunately, such common lab isolates have also been passaged frequently
in vitro
and have thus lost many of the attributes of wild isolates, often affecting important traits, like virulence. On the other hand, wild isolates are often not amenable to standard genetic approaches, thus limiting inquiry about the genetic basis of biological diversity. Here we imported a new genetic system based on CRISPR/CAS9, which allows high efficiency of targeted gene disruption in natural isolates of
T. gondii
. This advance promises to bring the power of genetics to bear on the broad diversity of
T. gondii
strains that have been described recently.
Effect of Acupuncture on Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: An Uncontrolled Preliminary Study from Korea
Authors: Jeon Eonju , Kwon Hyojung , Shin Imhee , Kang Seokbong , Shon Hosang 
Published: May 2014

Background Diabetic neuropathic pain can severely influence quality of life, and patients may be dissatisfied with treatment. Objective To carry out an observational study of the effects of acupuncture for the treatment of diabetic neuropathic pain, in preparation for a full study. Methods Nine patients with diabetic neuropathic pain were recruited from a Korean diabetic clinic and given 12 sessions of acupuncture over 4 weeks. Their symptoms were evaluated using the Total Symptom Score (TSS) and Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument (MNSI) at baseline and 4 weeks after the last treatment. Results Mean TSS scores reduced from 7.99 (SD 3.55) at baseline to 4.95 (SD 4.41), at the 8-week follow-up—a statistically non-significant change (p=0.057). The MNSI scores improved from 6.33 (SD 1.31) before treatment to 4.33 (SD 3.00) after acupuncture treatment—a significant improvement (p=0.010). One participant experienced an exacerbation of diabetic neuropathy symptoms, but two patients gained complete relief of their diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) symptoms. Conclusions The results of this study justify further investigations into the effects of acupuncture on DPN.
Ear Acupuncture for Co-Occurring Substance Abuse and Borderline Personality Disorder: An Aid to Encourage Treatment Retention and Tobacco Cessation
Authors: Stuyt Elizabeth B 
Published: May 2014

Objectives Retention of individuals with co-occurring borderline personality disorder (BPD) and substance use disorders in treatment is known to be difficult. An outcome study of a tobacco-free 90-day inpatient dual-diagnosis treatment programme that uses several evidenced-based treatments in addition to ear acupuncture (acudetox) was undertaken to determine overall treatment effectiveness. Methods Between January 2009 and December 2011, 231 patients were treated in the programme, 88% with nicotine dependence and 79% with personality disorder diagnoses. All patients completing the programme were invited to enrol in a 1-year follow-up study in which they responded to monthly questionnaires to assess outcomes. Results 185 patients (80%) successfully completed the programme. There was no correlation between successful programme completion and gender, race, age, primary drug dependence diagnosis or primary psychiatric diagnosis. The use of acudetox was positively correlated with successful completion (p=0.006). Of the 78 patients with BPD, 100% of men and 83% of women successfully completed the programme. Their use of acudetox was positively correlated with successful completion (p=0.026). At the end of the year, 140 questionnaires were returned: 51 patients with BPD reported outcomes similar to the group as a whole, with 55% sober and doing well. Conclusions The use of acudetox was positively correlated with both successful completion of the programme for those with BPD as well as successful tobacco cessation, which ultimately improves the ability to maintain sobriety.
A small-area analysis of inequalities in chronic disease prevalence across urban and non-urban communities in the Province of Nova Scotia, Canada, 2007–2011
Authors: Terashima Mikiko , Rainham Daniel G C , Levy Adrian R 
Published: May 2014

BackgroundSmall-area studies of health inequalities often have an urban focus, and may be limited in their translatability to non-urban settings. Using small-area units representing communities, this study assessed the influence of living in different settlement types (urban, town and rural) on the prevalence of four chronic diseases (heart disease, cancer, diabetes and stroke) and compared the degrees of associations with individual-level and community-level factors among the settlement types.MethodsThe associations between community-level and individual-level characteristics and prevalence of the chronic diseases were assessed using logistic regression (multilevel and non-multilevel) models. Individual-level data were extracted from the Canadian Community Health Survey (2007–2011). Indices of material deprivation and social isolation and the settlement type classification were created using the Canadian Census.ResultsRespondents living in towns were 21% more likely to report one of the diseases than respondents living in urban communities even after accounting for individual-level and community-level characteristics. Having dependent children appeared to have protective effects in towns, especially for males (OR: 0.49 (95% CI 0.27 to 0.90)). Unemployment had a strong association for all types of communities, but being unemployed appeared to be particularly damaging to health of males in urban communities (OR: 2.48 (95% CI 1.43 to 4.30)).ConclusionsThe study showed that those living in non-urban settings, particularly towns, experience extra challenges in maintaining health above and beyond the socioeconomic condition and social isolation of the communities, and individual demographic, behavioural and socioeconomic attributes. Our findings also suggest that health inequality studies based on urban-only settings may underestimate the risks by some factors. Ways to devise meaningful small-area units comparable in all settlement types are necessary to help plan effective provision of chronic disease-related health services and programmes on a regional scale.
Exposure to Leadership WalkRounds in neonatal intensive care units is associated with a better patient safety culture and less caregiver burnout
Authors: Sexton J Bryan , Sharek Paul J , Thomas Eric J , Gould Jeffrey B , Nisbet Courtney C , Amspoker Amber B , Kowalkowski Mark A , Schwendimann René , Profit Jochen 
Published: May 2014

BackgroundLeadership WalkRounds(WR) are widely used in healthcare organisations to improve patient safety. The relationship between WR and caregiver assessments of patient safety culture, and healthcare worker burnout is unknown.MethodsThis cross-sectional survey study evaluated the association between receiving feedback about actions taken as a result of WR and healthcare worker assessments of patient safety culture and burnout across 44 neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) actively participating in a structured delivery room management quality improvement initiative.ResultsOf 3294 administered surveys, 2073 were returned for an overall response rate of 62.9%. More WR feedback was associated with better safety culture results and lower burnout rates in the NICUs. Participation in WR and receiving feedback about WR were less common in NICUs than in a benchmarking comparison of adult clinical areas.ConclusionsWR are linked to patient safety and burnout. In NICUs, where they occurred more often, the workplace appears to be a better place to deliver and to receive care.
‘I'll continue as long as I can, and die when I can't help it’: a qualitative exploration of the views of end-of-life care by those affected by head and neck cancer (HNC)
Authors: O'Sullivan E M , Higginson I J 
Published: May 2014

BackgroundEvidence currently suggests that many people would prefer to die at home. However, optimal end-of-life homecare depends on the patient's ability to express their care preferences, prognostic awareness, complexity of care, concordance of patient/carer preferences and availability of appropriate services/support. This study explores Irish Head and Neck Cancer (HNC) patient and caregivers’ views on end-of-life care (EoLC), an area hitherto little studied.MethodsQualitative data were collected using semistructured, one-to-one interviews with HNC patients with therapeutic experience and their nearest caregivers (n=10, 7 patients, 3 carers). Interview topic guide was developed from the PRISMA EoLC survey. Thematic content analysis was employed to interpret findings.ResultsThematic analysis identified five broad EoLC themes: prognostication, decision making, preferred focus of care/advanced care planning (ACP), preferred place of care/death, perceived barriers/supports to home death. Participants were very willing to discuss most aspects of EoLC, exhibiting no signs of distress. Patients were reluctant to discuss preferred focus-of-care and ACP. This seemed linked to an overly optimistic view of aggressive medical intervention. While carers favoured full patient involvement in decision making, patients were divided between wanting autonomy and those preferring a more passive approach. All expressed a preference for homecare, and most felt they wouldideallyprefer to die at home. However, decision making was considered a complex process intertwined with risks, responsibilities and commitments to others. Carer burden and symptom control were major concerns.ConclusionsNormalising discussions on EoLC may benefit those affected by HNC. However, in HNC, this needs to be done alongside discussions regarding potentially life-extending treatment, symptom management and support.
Incidence trends of injury among the elderly in Spain, 2000–2010
Authors: Cirera Eva , Pérez Katherine , Santamariña-Rubio Elena , Novoa Ana M , Olabarria Marta 
Published: May 2014

BackgroundThe significant growth in the elderly population expected in the coming years demands a thorough and up-to-date understanding of the incidence of injuries in this group for purposes of prevention polices and their evaluation. The aim of this study was to describe the incidence of injuries in hospital inpatients over 64 years of age in Spain, stratified by sex, age group, and the severity and mechanism of injury, and to analyse trends in incidence during the period 2000–2010.MethodsDescriptive trends study using data from the National Hospital Discharge Register. The dependent variable was the number of hospital discharges with injury. Stratified incidence rates were calculated per 100 000 inhabitants. Trends, in terms of annual per cent change, were assessed using Poisson regression with discharge year as the independent variable.ResultsRates of injury were higher among women than men, increased with age in both sexes, with individuals aged ≥85 years having a fivefold greater risk than those aged 65–69 years. During the period 2000–2010, incidence increased annually by 1.1% in men and 0.9% in women aged 75–79 years, 2.3% and 1.6% in 80–84-year-olds and 3.3% and 2.4% in ≥85-year-olds, respectively. The incidence of all levels of injury severity and all mechanisms of injury increased during the study period, except for traffic injuries, which decreased.ConclusionsIncidence of injury in the elderly is rising, particularly in older individuals, indicating that the increase in the number of hospitalisations is not a consequence of population aging only.
ERBB3 as an independent prognostic marker for nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Tulalamba Warut , Larbcharoensub Noppadol , Janvilisri Tavan 
Published: May 2014

AimAlthough the ERBB proteins have been shown to be associated in many types of human tumours and serve as important cancer therapeutic targets, however, data regarding the expression and clinical relevance of ERBBs in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) are still conflicting. The aim of this study is to investigate the expression pattern of all ERBB members simultaneously in NPC tissues using immunohistochemistry and determine their clinical relevance.MethodsThe expression of all members of ERBB proteins was evaluated using immunohistochemistry on 82 NPC tissue samples. Relationship between the ERBB protein expression, clinicopathological parameters and patient outcome was assessed using univariate and multivariate analyses.ResultsWe found that ERBB1, ERBB2 and ERBB3 were strongly expressed in the normal nasopharyngeal epithelial cells. A marked reduction of ERBB1 and ERBB2 expression in NPC was observed compared with the non-cancerous tissues. 76 of 82 (92.7%) cases were ERBB3-positive, while ERBB4 was not expressed in both normal and NPC. The univariate log-rank analysis showed that regional lymph node metastasis, systemic metastasis, recurrence and ERBB3 expression were associated with patient survival. The ERBB3 expression was not correlated to other clinicopathological factors. Furthermore, multivariate analysis revealed that ERBB3 expression was an independent prognostic factor influencing patient survival.ConclusionsOur results suggested that the expression of ERBB3 is associated with patient survival and could serve as a novel and valuable predictor for prognostic evaluation of patients with NPC.