bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Temperature is not responsible for left‐right reversal in pelagic unicellular zooplanktons
Authors: Ujiié Y. , Asami T. 
Published: December 2013

AbstractMany holoplanktons disperse passively without active habitat choice. Their morphology may vary over wide distribution ranges by phenotypic plasticity or allelic variation. Planktic foraminifera, which are unicellular holoplanktons and occur in every ocean, could be an excellent system to study diversity and evolution in cellular responses to the environment. They uniquely exhibit single‐cell asymmetry in the coiled shell. Their handedness has long been said to change phenotypically by habitat temperature without statistical evidence. We tested temperature dependence of coil‐morph frequency within species of pelagic foraminifera in global scale for the first time. Our analyses of molecular phylogeny indicate that five monophyletic clades in Globorotalia truncatulinoides represent genetically isolated species from one another. Morph frequency varies across wide ranges of water temperature within three of the five species but shows no dependence on temperature. Contrarily, morph frequency exhibited apparent dependence when we pooled all specimens of the five species. This suggests that the correlations with temperature have classically been observed because of taxonomical confusions and interspecific differences in distribution. The present results against the classical hypothesis by thorough examinations rather argue for a possible presence of genetic basis for coiling direction in foraminifera. Our results provide a base to explore the evolution of left‐right asymmetry in unicellular eukaryotes.
Stability and phylogenetic correlation in gut microbiota: lessons from ants and apes
Authors: Sanders Jon G. , Powell Scott , Kronauer Daniel J. C. , Vasconcelos Heraldo L. , Frederickson Megan E. , Pierce Naomi E. 
Published: December 2013

AbstractCorrelation between gut microbiota and host phylogeny could reflect codiversification over shared evolutionary history or a selective environment that is more similar in related hosts. These alternatives imply substantial differences in the relationship between host and symbiont, but can they be distinguished based on patterns in the community data themselves? We explored patterns of phylogenetic correlation in the distribution of gut bacteria among species of turtle ants (genus Cephalotes), which host a dense gut microbial community. We used 16S rRNA pyrosequencing from 25 Cephalotes species to show that their gut community is remarkably stable, from the colony to the genus level. Despite this overall similarity, the existing differences among species' microbiota significantly correlated with host phylogeny. We introduced a novel analytical technique to test whether these phylogenetic correlations are derived from recent bacterial evolution, as would be expected in the case of codiversification, or from broader shifts more likely to reflect environmental filters imposed by factors such as diet or habitat. We also tested this technique on a published data set of ape microbiota, confirming earlier results while revealing previously undescribed patterns of phylogenetic correlation. Our results indicated a high degree of partner fidelity in the Cephalotes microbiota, suggesting that vertical transmission of the entire community could play an important role in the evolution and maintenance of the association. As additional comparative microbiota data become available, the techniques presented here can be used to explore trends in the evolution of host‐associated microbial communities.
An actin‐like protein is involved in regulation of mitochondrial and flagellar functions as well as in intramacrophage survival of Leishmania donovani
Authors: Singh Kuldeep , Veluru Niranjan K. , Trivedi Vishal , Gupta Chhitar M. , Sahasrabuddhe Amogh A. 
Published: December 2013

SummaryActin‐related proteins are ubiquitous actin‐like proteins that show high similarity with actin in terms of their amino acid sequence and three‐dimensional structure. However, in lower eukaryotes, such as trypanosomatids, their functions have not yet been explored. Here, we show that a novel actin‐related protein (ORF LmjF.13.0950) is localized mainly in the Leishmania mitochondrion. We further reveal that depletion of the intracellular levels of this protein leads to an appreciable decrease in the mitochondrial membrane potential as well as in the ATP production, which appears to be accompanied with impairment in the flagellum assembly and motility. Additionally, we report that the mutants so generated fail to survive inside the mouse peritoneal macrophages. These abnormalities are, however, reversed by the episomal gene complementation. Our results, for the first time indicate that apart from their classical roles in the cytoplasm and nucleus, actin‐related proteins may also regulate the mitochondrial function, and in case of Leishmania donovani they may also serve as the essential factor for their survival in the host cells.
An Alba‐domain protein contributes to the stage‐regulated stability of amastin transcripts in Leishmania
Authors: Dupé Aurélien , Dumas Carole , Papadopoulou Barbara 
Published: December 2013

SummaryLeishmania infantum promastigotes differentiate into amastigote forms within the phagolysosome of mammalian macrophages causing visceral leishmaniasis. Delta‐amastins belong to a multigenic surface protein family of potential virulence factors that are specifically expressed in the amastigote life cycle stage through distinct regulatory elements in the 3′ UTR controlling either mRNA stability or translation. Here, we provide novel insights on trans‐acting factors regulating amastin developmental gene expression. Using RNA affinity chromatography with a 300 nt regulatory region within the amastin 3′ UTR as bait, we identified an Alba‐domain protein of 25 kDa (LiAlba20) as a specific amastin mRNA‐binding partner. Genomic depletion of LiAlba20 results in amastin mRNA destabilization specifically in amastigotes, supporting a role of LiAlba20 in amastin gene regulation. As shown by comparative DNA microarray analysis, several delta‐amastin transcripts but also other known developmentally regulated transcripts were downregulated in LiAlba20−/− knockout parasites. Inactivation of the second Alba‐domain gene, LiAlba13, does not seem to affect amastin mRNA stability in either life stage of the parasite. These data indicate an important role of Alba‐domain proteins in the regulation of Leishmania differentially expressed transcripts and open a new field of investigation for better understanding mechanisms contributing to post‐transcriptional control in these parasites.
The P2 of Wheat yellow mosaic virus rearranges the endoplasmic reticulum and recruits other viral proteins into replication‐associated inclusion bodies
Authors: Sun Liying , Andika Ida Bagus , Shen Jiangfeng , Yang Di , Chen Jianping 
Published: December 2013

SummaryViruses commonly modify host endomembranes to facilitate biological processes in the viral life cycle. Infection by viruses belonging to the genus Bymovirus (family Potyviridae) has long been known to induce the formation of large membranous inclusion bodies in host cells, but their assembly and biological roles are still unclear. Immunoelectron microscopy of cells infected with the bymovirus Wheat yellow mosaic virus (WYMV) showed that P1, P2 and P3 are the major viral protein constituents of the membranous inclusions, whereas NIa‐Pro (nuclear inclusion‐a protease) and VPg (viral protein genome‐linked) are probable minor components. P1, P2 and P3 associated with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), but only P2 was able to rearrange ER and form large aggregate structures. Bioinformatic analyses and chemical experiments showed that P2 is an integral membrane protein and depends on the active secretory pathway to form aggregates of ER membranes. In planta and in vitro assays demonstrated that P2 interacts with P1, P3, NIa‐Pro or VPg and recruits these proteins into the aggregates. In vivo RNA labelling using WYMV‐infected wheat protoplasts showed that the synthesis of viral RNAs occurs in the P2‐associated inclusions. Our results suggest that P2 plays a major role in the formation of membranous compartments that house the genomic replication of WYMV.
“Do not Stifle the Spirit”: The Vision of Yves Congar for Charismatic Ecclesiology
Authors: Annan Stephen Ebo 
Published: December 2013

AbstractThe commemoration of the half-centenary of the Second Vatican Council has garnered enormous interest in the protagonists, circumstances and, interpretations that evolved in the period leading up to and following the council. Beyond the dialectics of hermeneutics of (dis)continuity of the council which has gained currency in recent post-conciliar discourse, however, attention has equally been drawn to the grand leitmotif that birthed the Council, namely, the clichéd aggiornamento and the pentecostal renewal envisioned by Blessed Pope John XXIII. Despite its determining importance, Cardinal Walter Kasper opines that the Church is still certainly a long way from being able to speak of a new Pentecost. One of the architects of such ecclesial reforms and pneumatological renewal in the Council was the erudite French ecclesiologist and ecumenist Yves Marie Congar (1904–1995). This article seeks to demonstrate that Congar was not only a celebrated pneumatologist but also a visionary of charismatic ecclesiology, deemed as a resourceful tool for re-evangelization.
Prevalence of Chronic Pain, Impact on Daily Life, and Treatment Practices in India
Authors: Dureja Gur Prasad , Jain Paramanand N. , Shetty Naresh , Mandal Shyama Prasad , Prabhoo Ram , Joshi Muralidhar , Goswami Subrata , Natarajan Karthic Babu , Iyer Rajagopalan , Tanna D. D. , Ghosh Pahari , Saxena Ashok , Kadhe Ganesh , Phansalkar Abhay A. 
Published: December 2013

AbstractObjectiveChronic pain is of concern to health professionals, patients, society, and negatively impacts quality of life (QoL). The present epidemiologic study identified point prevalence of chronic pain in India, impact on individual's QoL, unveiling current pain treatment practices, and levels of satisfaction with treatment.MethodsThis epidemiological telephonic survey consisted of two questionnaires: screening questionnaire that assessed prevalence of pain, its frequency during the past week, intensity during last episode, sites of pain, and main causes, and in‐depth questionnaire that evaluated demography, frequency, duration, and intensity of pain; impact of pain on QoL; respondent's perception regarding the attitude of their family, friends, and doctors toward their pain.ResultsA total of 5004 respondents were included from eight cities across India. The overall point prevalence of chronic pain was 13%, and the mean intensity of pain on NRS scale was 6.93. Respondents with chronic moderate and chronic severe pain were 37% and 63%, respectively. Pain in knees (32%), legs (28%), and joints (22%) was most prevalent. Respondents with chronic pain were no longer able to exercise, sleep, maintain relationships with friends and family, and maintain an independent lifestyle. About 32% of patients lost ≥4 hours of work in the past 3 months. Majority (68%) of respondents were treated for pain with over the counter (OTC) drugs, and most were taking NSAIDs (95%).ConclusionA significant population of India suffers from chronic pain, and their QoL is affected leading to disability. A proportion of respondents receiving pain treatment were taking nonprescription medications with a majority of respondents on NSAIDs. A very few were consulting pain management specialists.
Digital soil mapping of available water content using proximal and remotely sensed data
Authors: Gooley L. , Huang J. , Pagé D. , Triantafilis J. 
Published: December 2013

AbstractTwo‐thirds of all irrigated agriculture in Australia is undertaken within the Murray–Darling Basin. However, climate change predictions for this region suggest rainfall will decrease. To maintain profitability, more will need to be done by irrigators with less water. In this regard, irrigators need to be aware of the spatial distribution of the available water content (AWC) in the root‐zone (i.e. 0.0–0.90 m). To reduce the cost, digital soil mapping (DSM) techniques are being used to map soil properties related to AWC (e.g. soil texture). The purpose of this study was to create a DSM of the AWC at the district scale. This is achieved by determining AWC by the difference between laboratory measured permanent wilting point (PWP) and field capacity (FC) and using pressure plate apparatus. The PWP and FC data are coupled to remote (i.e. gamma‐ray spectrometry) and proximal (i.e. EM38 and EM34) sensed data and two trend surface parameters. Using a hierarchical spatial regression (HSR), we predict PWP and FC across the areas of Warren and Trangie in the lower Macquarie valley, Australia. The reliability of the DSM of PWP and FC were compared using prediction precision (RMSE – root mean square error) and bias (ME – mean error). The best results were achieved using EM38‐v, EM34‐20,eUandeTh. The DSM map of AWC is consistent with known Pedoderms and provides a basis for agricultural water management.
Deferasirox improves hematologic and hepatic function with effective reduction of serum ferritin and liver iron concentration in transfusional iron overload patients with myelodysplastic syndrome or aplastic anemia
Authors: Cheong June‐Won , Kim Hyeoung‐Joon , Lee Kyoo‐Hyung , Yoon Sung‐Soo , Lee Jae Hoon , Park Hee‐Sook , Kim Ho Young , Shim Hyeok , Seong Chu‐Myung , Kim Chul Soo , Chung Jooseop , Hyun Myung Soo , Jo Deog‐Yeon , Jung Chul Won , Sohn Sang Kyun , Yoon Hwi‐Joong , Kim Byung Soo , Joo Young‐Don , Park Chi‐Young , Min Yoo Hong ,   Korean Society of Hematology Acute Myeloid Leukemia/Myelodysplastic Syndrome Working Party
Published: December 2013

BackgroundTransfusional iron overload and its consequences are challenges in chronically transfused patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDSs) or aplastic anemia (AA).Study Design and MethodsThis was a prospective, multicenter, open‐label study to investigate the efficacy of deferasirox (DFX) by serial measurement of serum ferritin (S‐ferritin) level, liver iron concentration (LIC) level using relaxation rates magnetic resonance imaging, and other laboratory variables in patients with MDS or AA.ResultsA total of 96 patients showing S‐ferritin level of at least 1000 ng/mL received daily DFX for up to 1 year. At the end of the study, S‐ferritin level was significantly decreased in MDS (p = 0.02366) and AA (p = 0.0009). LIC level was also significantly reduced by more than 6.7 mg Fe/g dry weight from baseline. Hemoglobin level and platelet counts were significantly increased from baseline (p = 0.002 and p = 0.025, respectively) for patients showing significant anemia or thrombocytopenia. Elevated alanine aminotransferase was also significantly decreased from baseline.ConclusionsThis study shows that DFX is effective in reducing S‐ferritin and LIC level in transfusional iron overload patients with MDS or AA and is well tolerated. In addition, positive effects in hematologic and hepatic function can be expected with DFX. Iron chelation treatment should be considered in transfused patients with MDS and AA when transfusion‐related iron overload is documented.
Novel flow cytometric screening method for bacterial contamination of red blood cells: a proof‐of‐principle evaluation
Authors: Vollmer Tanja , Knabbe Cornelius , Dreier Jens 
Published: December 2013

BackgroundPlatelet concentrates (PCs) are the major source of transfusion‐transmitted bacterial infection but the significantly higher number of transfused red blood cells (RBCs) has resulted in a similar occurrence of possible transfusion‐associated bacterial infections as those of recipients transfused with platelets. The aim of this study was adaption of the BactiFlow (BF) flow cytometric rapid PC screening method for the detection of bacterial contamination in RBCs.Study Design and MethodsThe BF assay was used to detect and count bacteria based on esterase activity in viable cells in RBCs. The initial sample preparation for RBCs included the lysis of RBCs, followed by enrichment of bacteria by centrifugation and subsequent standard PC sample preparation. Two‐hundred RBC units were analyzed by BF and the BacT/Alert automated culture system. Furthermore, RBCs were spiked with eight different bacteria to monitor bacterial growth kinetics.ResultsThe BF showed an excellent correlation to conventional plate count results after RBC sample processing. The diagnostic sensitivity of the assay was determined to fewer than 500 counts/mL. Analysis of RBC units showed concordant negative results by BF and culture. Growth kinetics of bacteria were successfully monitored using flow cytometry, showing that Yersinia enterocolitica or Serratia liquefaciens had the capability to grow in RBCs to high counts.ConclusionOur study demonstrates the successful modification and application of a rapid flow cytometric screening method for bacterial contamination in RBCs. The BF assay represents a powerful basic tool to study bacterial contamination, potential screening strategies of RBCs, and the clinical outcome of screened RBCs prepared for transfusion.
Successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation following cardiopulmonary arrest in a geriatric chinchilla
Authors: Fernandez Christina M. , Peyton Jamie L. , Miller Mona , Johnson Eric G. , Kovacic Jan P. 
Published: December 2013

AbstractObjectiveTo describe the successful application of CPR in a geriatric chinchilla employing basic and advanced life support measures during cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA).Case SummaryA 13‐year‐old female intact chinchilla presented to a general and multispecialty referral hospital for a dental procedure. During recovery from anesthesia the patient suffered CPA and CPR was initiated. Noninvasive positive pressure mask ventilation was initiated and external chest compressions were performed. An 18‐Ga needle was introduced into the medullary cavity of the right humerus as an intraosseous catheter and provided access for administration of drugs and fluids. After return of spontaneous circulation was noted mannitol was administered via the intraosseous catheter to alleviate suspected increased intracranial pressure. Clinical improvement was noted shortly after administration. Monitoring during the recovery period showed a normal sinus cardiac rhythm and a SpO2 of 100% while on supplemental oxygen. Neurologic function continued to improve over the following hours. Oxygen therapy was provided via an oxygen cage, and administration of antimicirobials, gastrointestinal protectants, and nutritional supplementation were part of the post resuscitation care. Oxygen therapy was discontinued after 24 hours, during which time normal behaviors were observed and neurologic status was considered appropriate. The patient was discharged 48 hours after CPA.New or Unique Information ProvidedPublished reports from clinical practice on the outcomes of CPR for exotic small mammals are limited. This report details the successful outcome of the use of combined basic and advanced life support measures for the provision of CPR in a chinchilla. This report also highlights the utility of an intraosseous catheter for administration of drugs and fluids novel to this species during resuscitation and recovery. To the authors’ knowledge this is the first published report of successful CPR following CPA in a geriatric chinchilla.
Ecotoxicological assessment of pulsed ultraviolet light‐treated water containing microbial species and Cryptosporidium parvum using a microbiotest test battery
Authors: Garvey Mary , Hayes Jennifer , Clifford Eoghan , Rowan Neil 
Published: December 2013

AbstractDevelopment of a pulsed ultraviolet (PUV) light system as an alternative disinfection method for water treatment has been investigated, yet little is known about the impact of applying such emerging technologies on the natural aquatic environment. This study reports on the use of a battery of ecotoxicological tests representative of different ecological trophic levels to determine the safety and potability of PUV‐treated water containing known pathogens. Water samples containing Cryptosporidium oocysts and Escherichia coli were treated with PUV light, and the ecotoxicological safety was determined by assessing toxicity in a range of representative microbiotests and the Rainbow Trout Hepatocyte (RTH)‐149 fish cell line. Results show that PUV rapidly inactivated Cryptosporidium and the selected microbial species; greater rates of inactivation were observed at higher ultraviolet doses. PUV‐treated samples did not elicit ecotoxicological effects in the trophic levels studied. This study highlights that PUV is an effective means of disinfecting water containing pathogens such as Cryptosporidium.
Socioeconomic inequalities in youth smoking in Brazil
Authors: Barreto Sandhi Maria , de Figueiredo Roberta Carvalho , Giatti Luana 
Published: December 2013

ObjectiveThe contribution of smoking to socioeconomic inequalities in health is increasing worldwide, including in Brazil. Youth smoking may play an important role in the increasing social inequalities related to smoking. This study investigates social determinants of smoking among 15-year-old to 19-year-old individuals.DesignCross-sectional study.SettingThe study uses data of 3536 participants aged 15–19 years of age of the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) and the National Household Sample Survey (Pesquisa Nacional por Amostragem de Domicilio, PNAD) obtained from household interviews. Smoking was defined as currently smoking tobacco products, regardless of frequency. Household socioeconomic indicators included per capita income, the educational level and sex of the head of the household, the presence of smoking restrictions and the number of smokers (excluding adolescents). Adolescent social factors included years of delaying school and social status (full-time student, working, and neither working nor studying). The hierarchical logistic regression analysis considered the effect of the complex sampling design.ResultsFrom 3536 participants, 6.2% were smokers (95% CI 5.4 to 7.1). More men than women had the habit of smoking (7.2%; 5.9 to 8.6 vs 3.6%; 2.7 to 4.6). The likelihood of smoking was significantly greater for men and older teens. There was an upward trend in the OR of smoking according to the number of smokers in the house. Adolescents living in households with no smoking restrictions had a greater likelihood of being smokers. OR of smoking rose as the number of years of delaying school increased, being about three times greater among adolescents who were working and five times greater among those who were neither studying nor working.ConclusionsResults demonstrate that socioeconomic inequality in smoking is established at younger ages and that school delay as well as school abandonment may contribute to increased smoking-related inequalities. Smoking restrictions at home were protective against adolescents becoming smokers. Living with other smokers was a strong predictor of adolescents becoming smokers.