bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Commonly Used Disinfectants Fail To Eradicate Salmonella enterica Biofilms from Food Contact Surface Materials
Authors: Corcoran M. , Morris D. , De Lappe N. , O'Connor J. , Lalor P. , Dockery P. , Cormican M. 
Published: December 2013

ABSTRACT

Salmonellosis is the second most common cause of food-borne illness worldwide. Contamination of surfaces in food processing environments may result in biofilm formation with a risk of food contamination. Effective decontamination of biofilm-contaminated surfaces is challenging. Using the CDC biofilm reactor, the activities of sodium hypochlorite, sodium hydroxide, and benzalkonium chloride were examined against an early (48-h) and relatively mature (168-h)
Salmonella
biofilm. All 3 agents result in reduction in viable counts of
Salmonella
; however, only sodium hydroxide resulted in eradication of the early biofilm. None of the agents achieved eradication of mature biofilm, even at the 90-min contact time. Studies of activity of chemical disinfection against biofilm should include assessment of activity against mature biofilm. The difficulty of eradication of established
Salmonella
biofilm serves to emphasize the priority of preventing access of
Salmonella
to postcook areas of food production facilities.
Thermoanaerobacterthermohydrosulfuricus WC1 Shows Protein Complement Stability during Fermentation of Key Lignocellulose-Derived Substrates
Authors: Verbeke Tobin J. , Spicer Vic , Krokhin Oleg V. , Zhang Xiangli , Schellenberg John J. , Fristensky Brian , Wilkins John A. , Levin David B. , Sparling Richard 
Published: December 2013

ABSTRACT

Thermoanaerobacter
spp. have long been considered suitable
Clostridium thermocellum
coculture partners for improving lignocellulosic biofuel production through consolidated bioprocessing. However, studies using “omic”-based profiling to better understand carbon utilization and biofuel producing pathways have been limited to only a few strains thus far. To better characterize carbon and electron flux pathways in the recently isolated, xylanolytic strain,
Thermoanaerobacter thermohydrosulfuricus
WC1, label-free quantitative proteomic analyses were combined with metabolic profiling. SWATH-MS proteomic analysis quantified 832 proteins in each of six proteomes isolated from mid-exponential-phase cells grown on xylose, cellobiose, or a mixture of both. Despite encoding genes consistent with a carbon catabolite repression network observed in other Gram-positive organisms, simultaneous consumption of both substrates was observed. Lactate was the major end product of fermentation under all conditions despite the high expression of gene products involved with ethanol and/or acetate synthesis, suggesting that carbon flux in this strain may be controlled via metabolite-based (allosteric) regulation or is constrained by metabolic bottlenecks. Cross-species “omic” comparative analyses confirmed similar expression patterns for end-product-forming gene products across diverse
Thermoanaerobacter
spp. It also identified differences in cofactor metabolism, which potentially contribute to differences in end-product distribution patterns between the strains analyzed. The analyses presented here improve our understanding of
T. thermohydrosulfuricus
WC1 metabolism and identify important physiological limitations to be addressed in its development as a biotechnologically relevant strain in ethanologenic designer cocultures through consolidated bioprocessing.
Examination of Taxonomic Uncertainties Surrounding Brucella abortus bv. 7 by Phenotypic and Molecular Approaches
Authors: Garin-Bastuji Bruno , Mick Virginie , Le Carrou Gilles , Allix Sebastien , Perrett Lorraine L. , Dawson Claire E. , Groussaud Pauline , Stubberfield Emma J. , Koylass Mark , Whatmore Adrian M. 
Published: December 2013

ABSTRACT

Brucella
taxonomy is perpetually being reshuffled, at both the species and intraspecies levels. Biovar 7 of
Brucella abortus
was suspended from the
Approved Lists of Bacterial Names
Brucella
classification in 1988, because of unpublished evidence that the reference strain 63/75 was a mixture of
B. abortus
biovars 3 and 5. To formally clarify the situation, all isolates previously identified as
B. abortus
bv. 7 in the AHVLA and ANSES strain collections were characterized by classical microbiological and multiple molecular approaches. Among the 14 investigated strains, including strain 63/75, only four strains, isolated in Kenya, Turkey, and Mongolia, were pure and showed a phenotypic profile in agreement with the former biovar 7, particularly agglutination with both anti-A/anti-M monospecific sera. These results were strengthened by molecular strategies. Indeed, genus- and species-specific methods allowed confirmation that the four pure strains belonged to the
B. abortus
species. The combination of most approaches excluded their affiliation with the recognized biovars (biovars 1 to 6 and 9), while some suggested that they were close to biovar 3.These assays were complemented by phylogenetic and/or epidemiological methods, such as multilocus sequence analysis (MLSA) and variable-number tandem repeat (VNTR) analysis. The results of this polyphasic investigation allow us to propose the reintroduction of biovar 7 into the
Brucella
classification, with at least three representative strains. Interestingly, the Kenyan strain, sharing the same biovar 7 phenotype, was genetically divergent from other three isolates. These discrepancies illustrate the complexity of
Brucella
taxonomy. This study suggests that worldwide collections could include strains misidentified as
B. abortus
bv. 7, and it highlights the need to verify their real taxonomic position.
Implications of Chitin Attachment for the Environmental Persistence and Clinical Nature of the Human Pathogen Vibrio vulnificus
Authors: Williams Tiffany C. , Ayrapetyan Mesrop , Oliver James D. 
Published: December 2013

ABSTRACT

Vibrio vulnificus
naturally inhabits a variety of aquatic organisms, including oysters, and is the leading cause of seafood-related death in the United States. Strains of this bacterium are genetically classified into environmental (E) and clinical (C) genotypes, which correlate with source of isolation. E-genotype strains integrate into marine aggregates more efficiently than do C-genotype strains, leading to a greater uptake of strains of this genotype by oysters feeding on these aggregates. The causes of this increased integration of E-type strains into marine “snow” have not been demonstrated. Here, we further investigate the physiological and genetic causalities for this genotypic heterogeneity by examining the ability of strains of each genotype to attach to chitin, a major constituent of marine snow. We found that E-genotype strains attach to chitin with significantly greater efficiency than do C-genotype strains when incubated at 20°C. Type IV pili were implicated in chitin adherence, and even in the absence of chitin, the expression level of type IV pilin genes (
pilA
,
pilD
, and
mshA
) was found to be inherently higher by E genotypes than by C genotypes. In contrast, the level of expression of
N
-acetylglucosamine binding protein A (
gbpA
) was significantly higher in C-genotype strains. Interestingly, incubation at a clinically relevant temperature (37°C) resulted in a significant increase in C-genotype attachment to chitin, which subsequently provided a protective effect against exposure to acid or bile, thus offering a clue into their increased incidence in human infections. This study suggests that C- and E-genotype strains have intrinsically divergent physiological programs, which may help explain the observed differences in the ecology and pathogenic potential between these two genotypes.
Preventing type 2 diabetes among Palestinians: comparing five future policy scenarios
Authors: Abu-Rmeileh Niveen M E , Husseini Abdullatif , Capewell Simon , O'Flaherty Martin ,   on behalf of MEDCHAMPS project
Published: December 2013

ObjectiveThis paper aims to provide estimates of future diabetes prevalence in the West Bank, occupied Palestinian territory (oPt), and to compare five future policy scenarios for diabetes prevention.DesignWe created and refined a mathematical Markov model that integrates population, obesity and smoking trends to estimate future diabetes prevalence. Model parameters were derived from the literature. Diabetes incidence was estimated using DISMOD software. We developed the model for the Palestinian population based on data available for the period 2000–2010, and validated the model by comparing predicted diabetes prevalence to subsequent actual observed diabetes prevalence rates.SettingWest Bank oPt.ResultsPalestinian diabetes mellitus prevalence estimated by the model (for adults aged 25 or more) was 9.7% in 2000, increasing to 15.3% by 2010. Prevalence in men increased from 9.1% to 16.9% and in women from 10.2% to 13.6%. Comparisons of the model results with the observed prevalence in the Palestinian Family Health Survey showed a close fit. The model forecasts were 20.8% for 2020 and 23.4% for 2030. A 2.8% reduction in diabetes prevalence could be achieved if obesity trends start to decline by 5% in a 5-year period. If obesity prevalence was reduced by 35% in 10 years, as suggested by the WHO, diabetes prevalence might be decreased by 20%.ConclusionsThe model estimates an increase in the prevalence of diabetes which poses a large challenge to the health system. However, if bold but reasonable action is taken, effective interventions could reduce diabetes prevalence and hence the number of patients with diabetes.
Bristol girls dance project feasibility study: using a pilot economic evaluation to inform design of a full trial
Authors: Powell Jane E , Carroll Fran E , Sebire Simon J , Haase Anne M , Jago Russell 
Published: December 2013

BackgroundThere is currently little guidance for pilot trial economic evaluation where health outcomes and costs are influenced by a range of wider determinants and factors.ObjectivesThis article presents the findings of a pilot economic evaluation study running alongside the Bristol Girls Dance Project (BGDP) feasibility study.Design3-arm, cluster randomised, controlled pilot trial and economic evaluation. 7 schools (n=210) from the Bristol and greater Bristol area, UK were randomly allocated to the intervention arm 3 schools (n=90) and the control arm 4 schools (n=120).InterventionGirls aged 11–12 years with parental consent were provided with two, 90 min dance sessions per week for 9 weeks at school facilities.Economic outcome measuresProgramme costs and girls’ preferences for attributes of dance and preferences for competing leisure time activities were measured.ResultsThe mainstream average cost of the BGDP programme (not including research, control and dance teacher training costs) per school was $2126.40, £1329 and €1555 and per participant was $70.90, £44.31 and €51.84 in 2010–2011 prices. Discrete choice experiment (DCE) methods are acceptable to girls of this age indicating time available for other leisure activities on dance class days is the attribute girls valued most and 2 h leisure time remaining preferred to 3 h.ConclusionsThis pilot study indicates that providing full cost data for a future trial of the BGDP programme is feasible and practical. There is no evidence from preference data to support adjustment to intervention design. A future economic evaluation is likely to be successful utilising the resource use checklist developed. The importance of categorising separately resources used to develop, prepare, deliver and maintain the programme to estimate mainstream costs accurately is demonstrated.
Delivering dementia care differently—evaluating the differences and similarities between a specialist medical and mental health unit and standard acute care wards: a qualitative study of family carers’ perceptions of quality of care
Authors: Spencer Karen , Foster Pippa , Whittamore Kathy H , Goldberg Sarah E , Harwood Rowan H 
Published: December 2013

ObjectivesTo examine in depth carers’ views and experiences of the delivery of patient care for people with dementia or delirium in an acute general hospital, in order to evaluate a specialist Medical and Mental Health Unit (MMHU) compared with standard hospital wards. This qualitative study complemented the quantitative findings of a randomised controlled trial.DesignQualitative semistructured interviews were conducted with carers of patients with cognitive impairment admitted to hospital over a 4-month period.SettingA specialist MMHU was developed in an English National Health Service acute hospital aiming to deliver the best-practice care. Specialist mental health staff were integrated with the ward team. All staff received enhanced training in dementia, delirium and person-centred care. A programme of purposeful therapeutic and leisure activities was introduced. The ward environment was optimised to improve patient orientation and independence. A proactive and inclusive approach to family carers was encouraged.Participants40 carers who had been recruited to a randomised controlled trial comparing the MMHU with standard wards.ResultsThe main themes identified related closely to family carers’ met or unmet expectations and included activities and boredom, staff knowledge, dignity and fundamental care, the ward environment and communication between staff and carers. Carers from MMHU were aware of, and appreciated, improvements relating to activities, the ward environment and staff knowledge and skill in the appropriate management of dementia and delirium. However, communication and engagement of family carers were still perceived as insufficient.ConclusionsOur data demonstrate the extent to which the MMHU succeeded in its goal of providing the best-practice care and improving carer experience, and where deficiencies remained. Neither setting was perceived as neither wholly good nor wholly bad; however, greater satisfaction (and less dissatisfaction) with care was experienced by carers from MMHU compared with standard care wards.
In Vivo Contact Force Analysis and Correlation With Tissue Impedance During Left Atrial Mapping and Catheter Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Makimoto Hisaki , Lin Tina , Rillig Andreas , Metzner Andreas , Wohlmuth Peter , Arya Anita , Antz Matthias , Mathew Shibu , Deiss Sebastian , Wissner Erik , Rausch Peter , Bardyszewski Aleksander , Kamioka Masashi , Li Xuping , Kuck Karl-Heinz , Ouyang Feifan , Tilz Roland Richard 
Published: December 2013

Background—
The aim of this study was to evaluate in vivo contact force (CF) and the correlation of CF with impedance during left atrial 3-dimensional electroanatomical mapping and ablation.

Methods and Results—

CF during point-by-point left atrial mapping was assessed in 30 patients undergoing atrial fibrillation ablation. Operators were blinded to the real-time CF data. Data were analyzed according to 11 predefined areas in the left atrial and 6 segments around the ipsilateral pulmonary veins. A total of 3475 mapping and 878 ablation points were analyzed. Median CF during mapping was 14.0
g
(6.5–26.2; q1–q3), ranging from 5.1
g
at the ridge to 29.8
g
at the roof. Median CF at the ridge and mitral isthmus were 5.1
g
and 6.9
g
, respectively. Extremely high CF ≥100
g
was noted in 24 points (0.7%). Median CFs during ablation around the right and left pulmonary veins were 22.8
g
(12.6–37.9; q1–q3) and 12.3
g
(6.9–30.2; q1–q3), respectively. The lowest median CFs were recorded at the anterior–superior and anterior–inferior segments of the left pulmonary veins (7.2
g
and 7.9
g
). Impedance values during mapping and impedance fall during ablation correlated with the applied CF (
R
2
=0.16;
P
<0.001 and
R
2
=0.04;
P
<0.001) although there was significant overlap.

Conclusions—
Excessively high and low CF values can be observed during left atrial mapping and ablation. The low CF obtained at the mitral isthmus and anterior segments of the left pulmonary veins may explain why reconnection after ablation occurs more frequently at these sites. CF and impedance do correlate; however, the impedance for a given CF ranges widely, limiting its use in clinical practice.
Off-Label Use of Gastrointestinal Medications in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Barletta Jeffrey F. , Lat Ishaq , Micek Scott T. , Cohen Henry , Olsen Keith M. , Haas Curtis E. ,   Critical Care Pharmacotherapy Trials Network
Published: December 2013

Purpose: Determine the level of evidence supporting off-label gastrointestinal (GI) medication use and identify the medication class and indication whereby off-label use was most common. Materials and Methods: This prospective, multicentered observational study evaluated all medication orders written in 37 intensive care units (ICUs) in the United States, over a 24-hour period. All medications classified as “GI” according to a national reference were identified. The class and indication whereby off-label use was most prominent were determined and the level of evidence was described. Results: There were 774 orders from 363 patients and 63% (489 of 774) were considered off-label. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) accounted for most of the off-label usage (55% [271 of 489]), followed by laxatives (16% [77 of 489]) and histamine-2-receptor antagonists (H2RAs; 15% [71 of 489]). When prescribed, 99% (271 of 274) of PPIs, 99% (71 of 72) of H2RAs, and 79% (30 of 38) of promotility agents were off-label. Stress ulcer prophylaxis (100% [309 of 309]), GI bleeding (100% [18 of 18]), and gastric motility (88% [30 of 34]) were the most common off-label indications. The most common strength of recommendation and level of evidence for off-label use was indeterminate (58% [282 of 489]) and none (57% [280 of 489]), respectively. Conclusion: The PPIs are the most widely used off-label medications in the ICU. Stress ulcer prophylaxis is the most common indication. The level of evidence supporting off-label GI medication use is poor.
A Randomized Trial of the Self-Management Training and Regulation Strategy for Disruptive Students
Authors: Thompson Aaron M. 
Published: December 2013

Objectives: The study examined the effects of the Self-Management Training and Regulation Strategy (STARS) on disruptive behavior, authority acceptance, social competency, and student–teacher relations. Method: All fourth- and fifth-grade students ( N = 762) in seven schools and 42 classrooms were screened for disruptive behaviors. Using a cluster randomized design, 60 students in 23 classrooms and 48 students in 19 classrooms with highest levels of disruptive classroom behaviors were randomized to STARS or a control comparison condition. Multilevel models compared study conditions on all outcomes. Results: Study conditions were balanced at pretest. STARS students demonstrated improved teacher-rated disruptive behavior, social competence, authority acceptance, and relations. Conclusions: Selective programs targeting autonomy support improve social competencies and relationships that are important for school success.
Notch signals are required for in vitro but not in vivo maintenance of human hematopoietic stem cells and delay the appearance of multipotent progenitors
Authors: Benveniste Patricia , Serra Pablo , Dervovic Dzana , Herer Elaine , Knowles Gisele , Mohtashami Mahmood , Zúñiga-Pflücker Juan Carlos 
Published: December 2013

Key Points
Notch signals expand human HSC (CD90low) cells in vitro and delay the expansion of CD45RAint and CD45RAhi cells in vitro. HSCs expanded in vitro are equal to ex vivo CD90low cells in immune reconstitution.
Lineage specific antigenic differences in porcine torovirus hemagglutinin-esterase (PToV-HE) protein
Authors: Pignatelli Jaime , Alonso-Padilla Julio , Rodríguez Dolores 
Published: December 2013

AbstractHemagglutinin-esterases (HE) are viral envelope proteins present in some members from the toro-, corona- and orthomyxovirus families, all related with enteric and/or respiratory tract infections. HE proteins mediate reversible binding to sialic acid receptor determinants, very abundant glycan residues in the enteric and respiratory tracts. The role of the HE protein during the torovirus infection cycle remains unknown, although it is believed to be important in the natural infection process. The phylogenetic analysis of HE coding sequences from porcine torovirus (PToV) field strains revealed the existence of two distinct HE lineages. In a previous study, PToV virus strains with HE proteins from the two lineages were found coexisting in a pig herd, and they were even obtained from the same animal at two consecutive sampling time points. In this work, we report antigenic differences between the two HE lineages, and discuss the possible implications that the coexistence of viruses belonging to both lineages might have on the spread and sustainment of PToV infection in the farms.
The art of software systems development: Reliability, Availability, Maintainability, Performance (RAMP)
Authors: Malkawi Mohammad Isam 
Published: December 2013

AbstractThe production of software systems with specific demand on reliability, availability, maintenance, and performance (RAMP) is one of the greatest challenges facing software engineers at all levels of the development cycle. Most requirements specification tools are more suited for functional requirements than for non-functional RAMP requirements. RAMP requirements are left unspecified, specified at a later stage, or at best vaguely specified, which makes requirements specifications more of an art than a science. Furthermore, the cost of testing for RAMP requirements is quite often prohibitive. In many cases, it is difficult to test for some of the RAMP specifications such as maintainability, reliability, and high availability. Even the test for performance is quite often workload dependent and as such the performance numbers provided at test time or at system commissioning time may not be achievable during actual system workload. What makes the subject matter more difficult is the absence of a clear set of rules or practices, which, if followed closely, produce a system with acceptable RAMP specifications. As such, and until the design of RAMP software systems becomes a well understood theme, the development of such systems will be a fine art, where the tools and capabilities of developing such systems will depend on the particular system to be developed, the environment in which it will run, and the level of expertise and knowledge deployed. Just like no two pieces of art produced by the same artist are the same, no two software systems will have the same RAMP characteristics.This paper will focus on the paradigms involved in the production of RAMP software systems through several case studies. The purpose is to promote the interest of researchers to develop more specific guidelines for the production of SW systems with well defined RAMP qualities.