bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Demographic, risk factors and motivations among blood donors with reactive serologic tests for syphilis in São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Ferreira S. C. , de Almeida‐Neto C. , Nishiya A. S. , Oliveira C. D. L. , Ferreira J. E. , Alencar C. S. , Levi J. E. , Salles N. A. , Mendrone Jr. A. , Sabino E. C. 
Published: April 2014

SUMMARYObjectiveTo identify the demographic characteristics, risk factors and motivations for donating among blood donors with reactive serologic tests for syphilis.BackgroundPost‐donation interviews with syphilis seropositive blood donors improve recruitment and screening strategies.MethodsThis case–control study compares 75 Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) > 8, EIA+ (enzyme immunoassay) and FTA‐ABS+ (fluorescent treponemal antibody); 80 VDRL−, EIA+ and FTA‐ABS+; and 34 VDRL− and EIA− donors between 2004 and 2009. Donors were assessed by their demographic characteristics, sexual behaviour, history of alcohol and illicit drugs use, and motivations to donate.ResultsDonors with VDRL > 8 were more likely to be divorced [AOR = 12·53; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1·30–120·81], to have had more than six sexual partners (AOR=7·1; 95% CI 1·12–44·62) and to report male–male‐sex in the past 12 months (AOR=8·18; 95% CI 1·78–37·60). Donors with VDRL−, EIA+ and FTA‐ABS+ were less likely to be female (AOR=0·26; 95% CI 0·07–0·96), more likely to be older (AOR=10·2; 95% CI 2·45–42·58 ≥ 39 and <60 years old) and to have had more than six sexual partners in the past 12 months (AOR = 8·37; 95% CI 1·49–46·91). There was no significant difference among groups regarding illicit drugs use; 30·7% (VDRL > 8) and 12·5% (VDRL−, EIA+ and FTA‐ABS+) of donors reported that they had been at risk for HIV infection (P = 0·004). One‐third of donors came to the blood bank to help a friend or a relative who needed blood.ConclusionAlthough donors exposed to syphilis reported and recognised some high risk behaviour, most were motivated by direct appeal to donate blood. Monitoring the risk profile of blood donors can benefit public health and improve blood safety.
Burden of disease from inadequate water, sanitation and hygiene in low‐ and middle‐income settings: a retrospective analysis of data from 145 countries
Authors: Prüss‐Ustün Annette , Bartram Jamie , Clasen Thomas , Colford John M. , Cumming Oliver , Curtis Valerie , Bonjour Sophie , Dangour Alan D. , De France Jennifer , Fewtrell Lorna , Freeman Matthew C. , Gordon Bruce , Hunter Paul R. , Johnston Richard B. , Mathers Colin , Mäusezahl Daniel , Medlicott Kate , Neira Maria , Stocks Meredith , Wolf Jennyfer , Cairncross Sandy 
Published: April 2014

AbstractObjectiveTo estimate the burden of diarrhoeal diseases from exposure to inadequate water, sanitation and hand hygiene in low‐ and middle‐income settings and provide an overview of the impact on other diseases.MethodsFor estimating the impact of water, sanitation and hygiene on diarrhoea, we selected exposure levels with both sufficient global exposure data and a matching exposure‐risk relationship. Global exposure data were estimated for the year 2012, and risk estimates were taken from the most recent systematic analyses. We estimated attributable deaths and disability‐adjusted life years (DALYs) by country, age and sex for inadequate water, sanitation and hand hygiene separately, and as a cluster of risk factors. Uncertainty estimates were computed on the basis of uncertainty surrounding exposure estimates and relative risks.ResultsIn 2012, 502 000 diarrhoea deaths were estimated to be caused by inadequate drinking water and 280 000 deaths by inadequate sanitation. The most likely estimate of disease burden from inadequate hand hygiene amounts to 297 000 deaths. In total, 842 000 diarrhoea deaths are estimated to be caused by this cluster of risk factors, which amounts to 1.5% of the total disease burden and 58% of diarrhoeal diseases. In children under 5 years old, 361 000 deaths could be prevented, representing 5.5% of deaths in that age group.ConclusionsThis estimate confirms the importance of improving water and sanitation in low‐ and middle‐income settings for the prevention of diarrhoeal disease burden. It also underscores the need for better data on exposure and risk reductions that can be achieved with provision of reliable piped water, community sewage with treatment and hand hygiene.
Import Churning and Export Performance of Multi‐product Firms
Authors: Damijan Jože P. , Konings Jozef , Polanec Sašo 
Published: May 2014

AbstractThis paper analyses the impact of churning in the imported varieties of capital and intermediate inputs on firm export scope and productivity. Using detailed data on imports and exports at the firm‐product‐market level, we document substantial churning in both imports and exports for Slovenian manufacturing firms in the period 1994–2008. On average, a firm changes about one‐quarter of imported and exported product‐markets every year, while gross churning in terms of added and dropped product‐markets is almost three times higher. A substantial share of this product churning is due to simultaneous imports and exports of firms in identical varieties within the same CN‐8 product code (so called pass‐on‐trade). We find that churning in imported varieties is far more important than reduction in tariffs or declines in import prices for firms’ productivity growth and increased export product scope. We also find gross churning has a bigger impact on firm productivity improvements by a factor of more than 10 in comparison with net churning. Both adding and dropping of imported input varieties thus seem to be of utmost importance for firms aiming to optimise their input mix towards their most valuable inputs. These effects are further enhanced when excluding simultaneous trade in identical varieties, suggesting that pass‐on‐trade has less favourable effects on firms’ long‐run performance than regular trade.
Electroretinogram evaluation of equine eyes with extensive ‘bullet‐hole’ fundic lesions
Authors: Allbaugh Rachel A. , Ben‐Shlomo Gil , Whitley R. David 
Published: April 2014

AbstractObjectiveTo evaluate the impact of extensive bullet‐hole nontapetal fundic lesions in horses on retinal function as measured by full‐field electroretinography (ERG).Materials and MethodsFull‐fieldERGwas performed on two horses with numerous bullet‐hole lesions in the nontapetal fundus of both eyes. TheERGwas first recorded from the eye with the more extensive lesions in response to a low‐intensity light stimulus (0.03 cd s/m2) that was given at times (T)T = 5, 10, 15, 20 min of dark adaptation. Consecutively, combined rod–cone response was evaluated bilaterally in response to high‐intensity light stimulus (3 cd s/m2), followed by cone function evaluation by flicker stimulus (3 cd s/m2at 30 Hz). Off‐line analysis of theERGrecordings was then performed.ResultsDespite extensive bullet‐hole lesions in the nontapetal fundus bilaterally in both horses, retinal function as measured byERGdid not show any observable deficits. The b‐wave amplitude of the full‐fieldERGincreased continuously from 5 to 20 min of dark adaptation peaking at 446 μv and 377 μv for horse number 1 and 2, respectively. The b‐wave amplitudes of the combined rod–cone response wereOS‐ 459 μv andOD‐ 392 μv for horse number 1 andOS‐ 491 μv andOD‐ 608 μv for horse number 2. The amplitude of the flickerERGfor horse number 1 wasOS‐ 86 μv andOD‐ 110 μv and for horse number 2,OS‐ 80 μv andOD‐ 74 μv.ConclusionsExtensive bullet‐hole chorioretinal lesions do not appear to compromise outer retinal function in these horses.
Surgical correction of congenital entropion in related Boer goat kids using a combination Hotz‐Celsus and lateral eyelid wedge resection procedure
Authors: Donnelly Kevin S. , Pearce Jacqueline W. , Giuliano Elizabeth A. , Fry Pamela R. , Middleton John R. 
Published: April 2014

AbstractFive related Boer goat kids (≤4 months of age) were presented to the University of Missouri, Veterinary Teaching Hospital (MU‐VMTH) with epiphora and blepharospasm of several weeks duration and commencing prior to 1 month of age in all animals. Clinical examination confirmed euryblepharon and entropion bilaterally in two females and one male and unilaterally in two female kids. Deep stromal corneal ulceration was present in two eyes, and corneal granulation tissue and fibrosis were present in half (5/10) the affected eyes. A combination Hotz‐Celsus and lateral eyelid wedge resection procedure was performed on all affected eyelids. Recheck examinations and long‐term follow‐up confirmed resolution of the entropion, preservation of normal eyelid conformation, and restoration of ocular comfort. Pedigree analysis ruled out sex‐linked and autosomal dominant inheritance patterns; a specific mode of inheritance could not be determined. The Boer goat breed may be at increased risk for the development of entropion. This cases series represents the first report of entropion in the caprine species.
Extraction of 2-Acetyl-1-Pyrroline (2AP) in Pandan Leaves (Pandanus Amaryllifolius Roxb.) Via Solvent Extraction Method: Effect of Solvent
Authors: Ngadi Norzita , Yahya Noor Yahida 
Published: April 2014

Pandan (Pandanus amaryllifolius Roxb.) leaves are widely used in Malaysia as a source of natural flavoring. The major compound contributing to the characteristic flavour of Pandan is 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline (2AP). As the consumer requirement for use of natural flavours, extraction of components from natural sources has been sought. In this study, solvent extraction of 2AP from Pandan leaves was performed. The effect of solvent used during extraction process (i.e. methanol, ethanol, propanol) towards the yield of 2AP was investigated. The presence of 2AP was determined using GCMS. The results obtained showed that ethanol was the best solvent to extract 2AP from Pandan leaves compared to methanol as higher 2AP peak arises from ethanol chromatogram. However there is no 2AP detected when propanol was used as solvent. It is believed that polarity of the solvent plays an important role in the extraction of 2AP.
Genome Sequences of Three Frequently Used Listeria monocytogenes and Listeria ivanovii Strains
Authors: Klumpp Jochen , Staubli Titu , Schmitter Sibylle , Hupfeld Mario , Fouts Derrick E. , Loessner Martin J. 
Published: May 2014

ABSTRACT

We present the complete
de novo
assembled genome sequences of
Listeria monocytogenes
strains WSLC 1001 (ATCC 19112) and WSLC 1042 (ATCC 23074) and
Listeria ivanovii
WSLC 3009, three strains frequently used for the propagation and study of bacteriophages because they are presumed to be free of inducible prophages.
Genome Sequence of the Nonpathogenic Pseudomonas aeruginosa Strain ATCC 15442
Authors: Wang Yujiao , Li Chao , Gao Chao , Ma Cuiqing , Xu Ping 
Published: May 2014

ABSTRACT

Pseudomonas aeruginosa
ATCC 15442 is an environmental strain of the
Pseudomonas
genus. Here, we present a 6.77-Mb assembly of its genome sequence. Besides giving insights into characteristics associated with the pathogenicity of
P. aeruginosa
, such as virulence, drug resistance, and biofilm formation, the genome sequence may provide some information related to biotechnological utilization of the strain.
Integrative Conjugative Element ICE-βox Confers Oxidative Stress Resistance to Legionella pneumophila
In Vitro
and in Macrophages
Authors: Flynn Kaitlin J. , Swanson Michele S. 
Published: April 2014

ABSTRACT

Integrative conjugative elements (ICEs) are mobile blocks of DNA that can contribute to bacterial evolution by self-directed transmission of advantageous traits. Here, we analyze the activity of a putative 65-kb ICE harbored by
Legionella pneumophila
using molecular genetics, conjugation assays, a phenotype microarray screen, and macrophage infections. The element transferred to a naive
L. pneumophila
strain, integrated site-specifically, and conferred increased resistance to oxacillin, penicillin, hydrogen peroxide, and bleach. Furthermore, the element increased survival of
L. pneumophila
within restrictive mouse macrophages. In particular, this ICE protects
L. pneumophila
from phagocyte oxidase activity, since mutation of the macrophage NADPH oxidase eliminated the fitness difference between strains that carried and those that lacked the mobile element. Renamed ICE-βox (for
β
-lactam antibiotics and
o
x
idative stress), this transposable element is predicted to contribute to the emergence of
L. pneumophila
strains that are more fit in natural and engineered water systems and in macrophages.

IMPORTANCE
Bacteria evolve rapidly by acquiring new traits via horizontal gene transfer. Integrative conjugative elements (ICEs) are mobile blocks of DNA that encode the machinery necessary to spread among bacterial populations. ICEs transfer antibiotic resistance and other bacterial survival factors as cargo genes carried within the element. Here, we show that
Legionella pneumophila
, the causative agent of Legionnaires’ disease, carries ICE-βox, which enhances the resistance of this opportunistic pathogen to bleach and β-lactam antibiotics. Moreover,
L. pneumophila
strains encoding ICE-βox are more resistant to macrophages that carry phagocyte oxidase. Accordingly, ICE-βox is predicted to increase the fitness of
L. pneumophila
in natural and engineered waters and in humans. To our knowledge, this is the first description of an ICE that confers oxidative stress resistance to a nosocomial pathogen.
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Quasispecies That Include Homologues of Human Isolates Revealed through Whole-Genome Analysis and Virus Cultured from Dromedary Camels in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Briese Thomas , Mishra Nischay , Jain Komal , Zalmout Iyad S. , Jabado Omar J. , Karesh William B. , Daszak Peter , Mohammed Osama B. , Alagaili Abdulaziz N. , Lipkin W. Ian 
Published: April 2014

ABSTRACT
Complete Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) genome sequences were obtained from nasal swabs of dromedary camels sampled in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia through direct analysis of nucleic acid extracts or following virus isolation in cell culture. Consensus dromedary MERS-CoV genome sequences were the same with either template source and identical to published human MERS-CoV sequences. However, in contrast to individual human cases, where only clonal genomic sequences are reported, detailed population analyses revealed the presence of more than one genomic variant in individual dromedaries. If humans are truly infected only with clonal virus populations, we must entertain a model for interspecies transmission of MERS-CoV wherein only specific genotypes are capable of passing bottleneck selection.

IMPORTANCE
In most cases of Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), the route for human infection with the causative agent, MERS coronavirus (MERS-CoV), is unknown. Antibodies to and viral nucleic acids of MERS-CoV have been found in dromedaries, suggesting the possibility that they may serve as a reservoir or vector for human infection. However, neither whole viral genomic sequence nor infectious virus has been isolated from dromedaries or other animals in Saudi Arabia. Here, we report recovery of MERS-CoV from nasal swabs of dromedaries, demonstrate that MERS-CoV whole-genome consensus sequences from dromedaries and humans are indistinguishable, and show that dromedaries can be simultaneously infected with more than one MERS-CoV. Together with data indicating widespread dromedary infection in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, these findings support the plausibility of a role for dromedaries in human infection.
Humanized Mice for Studying Human Immune Responses and Generating Human Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Akkina Ramesh 
Published: April 2014

ABSTRACT
The new-generation humanized (Hu) mouse models permit multilineage human hematopoiesis and generate T cells, B cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells required for a coordinated human immune response. Therefore, any desired antigen or human-specific pathogens that can infect humanized mice can be used to generate human antibody responses. Two leading humanized mouse models are currently being used. The Hu-HSC model uses the transplantation of human hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), whereas the BLT mouse model is created by transplantation of human fetal liver, thymus, and HSC. A number of human pathogens such as HIV-1, dengue, Epstein-Barr virus, and hepatitis C virus have been studied in these systems. Responder antigen-specific B cells from these animals can be collected and used to generate human monoclonals by B-cell immortalization or by single-cell PCR methods to “rescue” antibody-producing genes for ectopic expression. Both models generate cellular and humoral immune responses. However, the antibodies generated are primarily of the IgM type because of the inefficient immunoglobulin class switch resulting in the suboptimal production of antigen-specific affinity-matured IgG. The current Hu mouse models thus far have permitted the analysis of human “antibodyome,” and recent reports demonstrated their utility in generating human monoclonal antibodies. Ongoing efforts at further refinements are expected to make these systems more efficient in the near future.
Antibody Engineering
Authors: Lo Kin-Ming , Leger Olivier , Hock Björn 
Published: April 2014

ABSTRACTAdvanced molecular biology techniques developed during the past few decades have allowed the industry to exploit and commercialize the natural defense mechanisms that antibodies provide. This review discusses the latest advances in antibody-engineering technologies to enhance clinical efficacy and outcomes. For the constant regions, the choice of the antibody class and isotype has to be made carefully to suit the therapeutic applications. Engineering of the Fc region, either by direct targeted mutagenesis or by modifying the nature of itsN-glycan, has played an important role in recent years in increasing half-life or controlling effector functions. The variable regions of the antibody are responsible for binding affinity and exquisite specificity to the target molecule, which together with the Fc determine the drug's efficacy and influence the drug dose required to obtain the desired effectiveness. A key requirement during antibody development is therefore to affinity mature the variable regions when necessary, so that they bind the therapeutic target with sufficiently high affinity to guarantee effective occupancy over prolonged periods. If the antibody was obtained from a non-human source, such as rodents, a humanization process has to be applied to minimize immunogenicity while maintaining the desired binding affinity and selectivity. Finally, we discuss the next next-generation antibodies, such as antibody-drug conjugates, bispecific antibodies, and immunocytokines, which are being developed to meet future challenges.
The Role of Complement in Antibody Therapy for Infectious Diseases
Authors: Wibroe Peter P. , Helvig Shen Y. , Moein Moghimi S. 
Published: April 2014

ABSTRACTThe complement system is part of the innate immune system, eliciting central immunoregulatory functions. Detection of foreign surfaces is either achieved through complement-specific patternrecognition molecules or mediated by antigen recognition of antibodies. Immunoglobulin A (IgA), IgG, and IgM all have the potential to initiate a complement response, with the efficiency and response development closely related to the antibody isotype, multimeric state, and degree of glycosylation. A group of serum proteins constitutes the central effector functions of complement, thus allowing direct cell lysis, opsonization, and inflammation. These effector functions can be used in antibody therapies, especially against infectious diseases, as the target membranes lack complement regulatory proteins. The relative contribution of each function and the interplay with direct antibody-mediated clearance is not fully exploited, thus suggesting an option for further rational optimization of antibody therapies.
Cheese Classification, Characterization, and Categorization: A Global Perspective
Authors: Almena-Aliste Montserrat , Mietton Bernard 
Published: April 2014

ABSTRACT
Cheese is one of the most fascinating, complex, and diverse foods enjoyed today. Three elements constitute the cheese ecosystem: ripening agents, consisting of enzymes and microorganisms; the composition of the fresh cheese; and the environmental conditions during aging. These factors determine and define not only the sensory quality of the final cheese product but also the vast diversity of cheeses produced worldwide. How we define and categorize cheese is a complicated matter. There are various approaches to cheese classification, and a global approach for classification and characterization is needed. We review current cheese classification schemes and the limitations inherent in each of the schemes described. While some classification schemes are based on microbiological criteria, others rely on descriptions of the technologies used for cheese production. The goal of this review is to present an overview of comprehensive and practical integrative classification models in order to better describe cheese diversity and the fundamental differences within cheeses, as well as to connect fundamental technological, microbiological, chemical, and sensory characteristics to contribute to an overall characterization of the main families of cheese, including the expanding world of American artisanal cheeses.
The Microfloras and Sensory Profiles of Selected Protected Designation of Origin Italian Cheeses
Authors: Licitra Giuseppe , Carpino Stefania 
Published: April 2014

ABSTRACT

Approximately 39 Italian cheeses carry protected designation of origin (PDO) status. These cheeses differ in their manufacturing technology and the microbial flora which comprise the finished products. The evolution of lactic microflora in cheeses with PDO status is of particular interest because the biochemical activities of these organisms participate in cheesemaking and may play an acknowledged role in the development of organoleptic characteristics during ripening. Nonstarter lactic acid bacteria (NSLAB) constitute complex microbial associations that are characterized by the occurrence of various species and many biotypes as a result of a number of selective conditions persisting during the manufacturing process and different ecological niches. The evolution of different species during ripening of Fiore Sardo showed that, when present,
Lactobacillus paracasei
persists and dominates the microflora of the cheese in the last period of ripening, suggesting that this species, more resistant to the constraints of the mature cheese, could be involved in proteolysis and in other enzymatic processes occurring during cheese ripening. In contrast, the stretching step typical of pasta filata cheese, such as Ragusano, induced a simplification of the raw milk profiles, allowing the persistence only of some predominant species, such as
Streptococcus thermophilus
,
Lactobacillus delbrueckii
subsp.
lactis
,
Lactococcus lactis
, and
Streptococcus macedonicus
, after the stretching step.
Lactobacillus plantarum
and
L. paracasei
were isolated from ripened Castelmagno PDO cheese samples with the highest frequencies. These species, generally absent in the milk, occur in dairy ecosystems and dominate the bacterial flora of many ripened semihard cheeses. In PDO long-ripened Italian cheese such as Parmigiano Reggiano, the NSLAB population is mainly formed by
L. paracasei
,
Lactobacillus rhamnosus
, and
Pediococcus acidilactici
.
Lactobacillus helveticus
,
L. delbrueckii
subsp.
lactis
, and
L. delbrueckii
subsp.
bulgaricus
were also detected. Continued insight into the microbial populations of traditional Italian cheeses will allow continued production of characteristic, high-quality cheeses which have been enjoyed for many centuries.