bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Emergence of dengue virus 4 genotype II in Guangzhou, China, 2010: Survey and molecular epidemiology of one community outbreak
Authors: Jing Qin-Long , Yang Zhi-Cong , Luo Lei , Xiao Xin-Cai , Di Biao , He Peng , Fu Chuan-Xi , Wang Ming , Lu Jia-Hai 
Published: April 2012

Abstract

Background
The re-emergence of dengue virus 4 (DENV-4) has become a public health concern in South America, Southeast Asia and South Asia. However, it has not been known to have caused a local outbreak in China for the past 20 years. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the epidemiology of one local community outbreak caused by DENV-4 in Guangzhou city, China, in 2010; and to determine the molecular characteristics of the genotype II virus involved.

Case presentations
During September and October of 2010, one imported case, a Guangzhou resident who travelled back from Thailand, resulted in 18 secondary autochthonous cases in Guangzhou City, with an incidence rate of 5.53 per 10,000 residents. In indigenous cases, 14 serum samples tested positive for IgM against DENV and 7 for IgG from a total of 15 submitted serum samples, accompanied by 5 DENV-4 isolates. With identical envelope gene nucleotide sequences, the two isolates (D10168-GZ from the imported index case and Guangzhou 10660 from the first isolate in the autochthonous cases) were grouped into DENV-4 genotype II after comparison to 32 previous DENV-4 isolates from GenBank that originated from different areas.

Conclusions
Based on epidemiological and phylogenetic analyses, the outbreak, which was absent for 20 years after the DENV-4 genotype I outbreak in 1990, was confirmed as DENV-4 genotype II and initially traced to the imported index case, a Guangzhou resident who travelled back from Thailand.
Molecular monitoring of plasmodium falciparum drug susceptibility at the time of the introduction of artemisinin-based combination therapy in Yaoundé, Cameroon: Implications for the future
Authors: Menard Sandie , Morlais Isabelle , Tahar Rachida , Sayang Collins , Mayengue Pembe Issamou , Iriart Xavier , Benoit-Vical Françoise , Lemen Brigitte , Magnaval Jean-François , Awono-Ambene Parfait , Basco Leonardo K , Berry Antoine 
Published: April 2012

Abstract

Background
Regular monitoring of the levels of anti-malarial resistance of Plasmodium falciparum is an essential policy to adapt therapy and improve malaria control. This monitoring can be facilitated by using molecular tools, which are easier to implement than the classical determination of the resistance phenotype. In Cameroon, chloroquine (CQ), previously the first-line therapy for uncomplicated malaria was officially withdrawn in 2002 and replaced initially by amodiaquine (AQ) monotherapy. Then, artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT), notably artesunate-amodiaquine (AS-AQ) or artemether-lumefantrine (AL), was gradually introduced in 2004. This situation raised the question of the evolution of P. falciparum resistance molecular markers in Yaoundé, a highly urbanized Cameroonian city.

Methods
The genotype of pfcrt 72 and 76 and pfmdr1 86 alleles and pfmdr1 copy number were determined using real-time PCR in 447 P. falciparum samples collected between 2005 and 2009.

Results
This study showed a high prevalence of parasites with mutant pfcrt 76 (83%) and pfmdr1 86 (93%) codons. On the contrary, no mutations in the pfcrt 72 codon and no samples with duplication of the pfmdr1 gene were observed.

Conclusion
The high prevalence of mutant pfcrt 76T and pfmdr1 86Y alleles might be due to the choice of alternative drugs (AQ and AS-AQ) known to select such genotypes. Mutant pfcrt 72 codon was not detected despite the prolonged use of AQ either as monotherapy or combined with artesunate. The absence of pfmdr1 multicopies suggests that AL would still remain efficient. The limited use of mefloquine or the predominance of mutant pfmdr1 86Y codon could explain the lack of pfmdr1 amplification. Indeed, this mutant codon is rarely associated with duplication of pfmdr1 gene. In Cameroon, the changes of therapeutic strategies and the simultaneous use of several formulations of ACT or other anti-malarials that are not officially recommended result in a complex selective pressure, rendering the prediction of the evolution of P. falciparum resistance difficult. This public health problem should lead to increased vigilance and regular monitoring.
Rate of vertical transmission of human papillomavirus from mothers to infants: Relationship between infection rate and mode of delivery
Authors: Park Hyun , Lee Si Won , Lee In Ho , Ryu Hyun Mee , Cho A Reum , Kang Young Soon , Hong Sung Ran , Kim Sung Soon , Seong Seok Ju , Shin Son Moon , Kim Tae Jin 
Published: April 2012

Abstract

Background
In contrast to consistent epidemiologic evidence of the role of sexual transmission of human papillomavirus (HPV) in adults, various routes may be related to HPV infection in infants. We have assessed the extent of HPV infection during the perinatal period, and the relationship between mode of delivery and vertical transmission.

Results
A total of 291 pregnant women over 36 weeks of gestation were enrolled with informed consent. Exfoliative cells were collected from maternal cervix and neonatal buccal mucosa. HPV infection and genotypes were determined with an HPV DNA chip, which can recognise 24 types. The HPV-positive neonates were re-evaluated 6 months after birth to identify the presence of persistent infection. HPV DNA was detected in 18.9 % (55/291) of pregnant women and 3.4 % (10/291) of neonates. Maternal infection was associated with abnormal cytology (p = 0.007) and primiparity (p = 0.015). The infected neonates were all born to HPV-positive mothers. The rate of vertical transmission was estimated at 18.2 % (10/55) which was positively correlated with maternal multiple HPV infection (p = 0.003) and vaginal delivery (p = 0.050), but not with labour duration and premature rupture of membranes. The rate of concordance of genotype was 100 % in mother-neonate pairs with vertical transmission. The neonatal HPV DNAs found at birth were all cleared at 6 months after delivery.

Conclusions
Vertical transmission of HPV DNA from HPV infected mother to the neonate increased when the infant was delivered through an infected cervix. However, the absence of persistent infection in infants at 6 months after delivery may suggest temporary inoculation rather than true vertical infection.
A Pilot study of the Sharing Risk Information Tool (ShaRIT) for Families with Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome
Authors: Kardashian Ani , Fehniger Julia , Creasman Jennifer , Cheung Eleanor , Beattie Mary Stanley 
Published: April 2012

Abstract

Background
Individuals who carry deleterious BRCA mutations face significantly elevated risks of breast, ovarian, and other cancers. These individuals are also responsible for informing relatives of their increased risk for carrying the family BRCA mutation. Few interventions have been developed to facilitate this family communication process.

Methods
We developed the Sharing Risk Information Tool (ShaRIT), a personalized educational intervention, to support BRCA carriers as they discuss BRCA positive results and their implications with relatives. We conducted a pilot study of 19 BRCA carriers identified through the University of California San Francisco Cancer Risk Program. Our study had two aims: 1) to assess the feasibility and acceptability of ShaRIT, and 2) describe characteristics associated with increased family communication and BRCA testing. Participants in our study were divided into two groups: those who had not received ShaRIT as part of their genetic counseling protocol (control group, n = 10) and those who received ShaRIT (n = 9).

Results
All 9 women who received ShaRIT reported that it was a useful resource. Characteristics associated with increased sharing and testing included: female gender, degree of relationship, and frequency of communication. Increased pedigree knowledge showed a trend toward higher rates of sharing.

Conclusions
Both participants and genetic counselors considered ShaRIT a well-received, comprehensive tool for disseminating individual risk information and clinical care guidelines to Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome families. Because of this, ShaRIT has been incorporated as standard of care at our institution. In the future we hope to evaluate the effects of ShaRIT on family communication and family testing in larger populations of BRCA positive families.
Socioeconomic inequalities in common mental disorders and psychotherapy treatment in the UK between 1991 and 2009
Authors: Jokela Markus , Batty G. David , Vahtera Jussi , Elovainio Marko , Kivimäki Mika 
Published: April 2012

BackgroundInequality in health and treatment of disease across socioeconomic status groups is a major public health issue.AimsTo examine differences in socioeconomic status in common mental disorders and use of psychotherapy provided by the public and private sector in the UK between 1991 and 2009.MethodDuring these years, 28 054 men and women responded to annual surveys by the nationally representative, population-based British Household Panel Survey (on average 7 measurements per participant; 207 545 person-observations). In each year, common mental disorders were assessed with the self-reported 12-item General Health Questionnaire and socioeconomic status was assessed on the basis of household income, occupational status and education.ResultsHigher socioeconomic status was associated with lower odds of common mental disorder (highest v. lowest household income quintile odds ratio (OR) 0.88, 95% CI 0.82–0.94) and of being treated by publicly provided psychotherapy (OR = 0.43, 95% CI 0.34–0.55), but higher odds of being a client of private psychotherapy (OR = 3.33, 95% CI 2.36–4.71). The status difference in publicly provided psychotherapy treatment was more pronounced at the end of follow-up (OR = 0.36, 95% CI 0.23–0.56, in 2005–2009) than at the beginning of the follow-up period (OR =0.96, 95% CI 0.66–1.39, in 1991–1994; time interaction P<0.001). The findings for occupational status and education were similar to those for household income.ConclusionsThe use of publicly provided psychotherapy has improved between 1991 and 2009 among those with low socioeconomic status, although social inequalities in common mental disorders remain.
Radiological and clinical findings of 25 patients with invasive pulmonary aspergillosis: retrospective analysis of 2150 liver transplantation cases
Authors: Qin J , Fang Y , Dong Y , Zhu K , Wu B , An Y , Shan H 
Published: April 2012

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the radiological and clinical findings of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) after liver transplantation.
Methods: This study included 25 consecutive liver transplant recipients with histologically confirmed IPA after liver transplantation. Radiological examinations performed for diagnosis were available in all patients. Clinical findings and changes in clinical response and radiological findings after treatment were also evaluated.
Results: 3 main radiological findings were identified: nodules, 64% (16/25); masses, 36% (9/25); and consolidations in a patchy pattern, 20% (5/25). A tree-in-bud pattern was found in 12% (3/25) of patients. In 8 (32%) of 25 patients, we found a combination of 2 or more of these signs: 5 (20%) patients presented with concurrent nodules accompanied by patchy consolidations and/or tree-in-bud, and 3 (12%) patients showed masses accompanied by large consolidations. A halo sign was observed in 20 (80%) of 25 patients. Hypodense sign and cavitary lesions were encountered in 17 (68%) of 25 patients. Follow-up radiological findings after treatment showed improvement in 18 patients, no change in 4 patients and progression in 3 patients. There were three aspergillosis-associated deaths during the follow-up period. The onset time of IPA was a median of 31 days after transplantation. The most common symptom at diagnosis was fever (n=15). None of the 25 patients had leukopaenia at the time of the diagnosis of IPA.
Conclusions: The most common radiological findings of IPA after liver transplantation are multiple nodules with or without halo sign, masses and consolidations, which usually appear about 1 month after transplantation.
Layered Graph Approaches to the Hop Constrained Connected Facility Location Problem
Authors: Ljubić Ivana , Gollowitzer Stefan 
Published: April 2012

Given a set of customers, a set of potential facility locations, and some interconnection nodes, the goal of the connected facility location problem (ConFL) is to find the minimum-cost way of assigning each customer to exactly one open facility and connecting the open facilities via a Steiner tree. The sum of costs needed for building the Steiner tree, facility opening costs, and the assignment costs needs to be minimized. If the number of edges between a prespecified node (the so-called root) and each open facility is limited, we speak of the hop constrained facility location problem (HC ConFL). This problem is of importance in the design of data-management and telecommunication networks. In this article we provide the first theoretical and computational study for this new problem that has not been studied in the literature so far. We propose two disaggregation techniques that enable the modeling of HC ConFL: (i) as a directed (asymmetric) ConFL on layered graphs, or (ii) as the Steiner arborescence problem (SA) on layered graphs. This allows for usage of best-known mixed integer programming models for ConFL or SA to solve the corresponding hop constrained problem to optimality. In our polyhedral study, we compare the obtained models with respect to the quality of their linear programming lower bounds. These models are finally computationally compared in an extensive computational study on a set of publicly available benchmark instances. Optimal values are reported for instances with up to 1,300 nodes and 115,000 edges.
Optogenetic electrophysiology: a new approach to combine cellular and systems physiology
Authors: Mishina Yukiko , Mutoh Hiroki , Knöpfel Thomas 
Published: April 2012

AbstractOptogenetics is the latest new subdiscipline in brain sciences that merges optical imaging, protein engineering and genetic dissection of neuronal circuits to optically monitor and control brain activity with high spatial and temporal precision. In this review, the conceptual framework that fueled the development of this methodology is first introduced and the central tools utilized in monitoring and controlling of neuronal circuit elements using light are described. How this innovative approach fosters our understanding of both physiological and pathophysiological properties of brain networks is then discussed. Finally, the potential clinical application of optogenetic approaches is outlined.
Keratin function and regulation in tissue homeostasis and pathogenesis
Authors: Roth Wera , Hatzfeld Mechthild , Friedrich Maik , Thiering Sören , Magin Thomas M. 
Published: April 2012

AbstractEpithelial tissues act as hubs in metabolism and communication and protect the organism against dehydration, infections, pharmacological and physical stress. Keratin intermediate filament proteins are well established as major cytoskeletal players in maintaining epithelial integrity. More recently, an involvement of keratins in growth control and organelle functions has emerged. Disruption of the keratin cytoskeleton by mutations or its reorganization following posttranslational modifications can render epithelia susceptible to tissue damage and various stresses, while loss of keratin expression is a hallmark of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). To understand the molecular mechanisms by which keratins perform their functions remains a formidable challenge. Based on selected examples, we will discuss how cell-specific expression of keratin isotypes affects cytoarchitecture and cell behavior. Further, we ask how posttranslational modifications alter keratin organization and interactions during signaling. Next, we discuss pathomechanisms of epidermal keratin disorders in the light of novel data. Finally, we raise open questions and point out future directives.
One-pot synthesis of fused 3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2(1H)-ones and thiones using a novel ionic liquid as an efficient and reusable catalyst: improved protocol conditions for the Biginelli-like scaffolds
Authors: Janardhan Banothu , Laxmi Somarapu Vijaya , Rajitha Bavanthu 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
A novel ionic liquid with multi-SO3H groups has been found to be an efficient acid catalyst for the one-pot three-component synthesis of fused 3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2(1H)-ones and thiones under solvent free conditions. Good yields, short reaction times, straight forward workup, reusability of the catalyst and green conditions are the most obvious advantages of this methodology.
Synthesis and growth regulatory activity of novel 5-(3-alkyl-4-methyl-2-thioxo-2,3-dihydro-thiazol-5-yl)-3H-[1,3,4]thiadiazole(oxadiazole)-2-thiones and their derivatives
Authors: Knyazyan Aram , Eliazyan Karine , Pivazyan Vergush , Ghazaryan Emma , Harutyunyan Siranush , Yengoyan Aleksandr 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Base- and acid-mediated heterocyclization of 2-(3-alkyl-4-methyl-2-thioxo-2,3-dihydro-thiazole-5-carbonyl)-hydrazinecarbodithioic acid potassium salts 3, 4 yielded the corresponding 3H-[1,3,4]thiadiazole(oxadiazole)-2-thiones 5–8. The reaction of these products with alkyl halides gave S-substituted derivatives 9–12. Treatment of oxadiazoles 7, 8with secondary amines furnished a mixture of cyclic and acyclic derivatives 13–16. The preliminary biological assay showed that the synthesized compounds could be of interest as growth stimulants.
Lateral Ankle Ligament Injury Following Inversion Ankle Sprain
Authors: Stehr Matthew T. 
Published: April 2012

The patient was a 20-year-old man who was referred to a physical therapist 6 weeks following an inversion sprain of his right ankle. Radiographs were completed and had been interpreted as normal, but due to continued complaints of instability and marked laxity on examination, ankle stress radiographs were ordered. Talar tilt stress radiographs were suggestive of lateral ligamentous insufficiency of the right ankle. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2012;42(2):145. doi:10.2519/jospt.2012.0403
The Scapular Assistance Test Results in Changes in Scapular Position and Subacromial Space but Not Rotator Cuff Strength in Subacromial Impingement
Authors: Seitz Amee L. , McClure Philip W. , Finucane Sheryl , Ketchum Jessica M. , Walsworth Matthew K. , Boardman N. Douglas , Michener Lori A. 
Published: April 2012

Study Design Controlled laboratory study. Objectives To determine the effect of the modified scapular assistance test (SAT) on 3-dimensional shoulder kinematics, strength, and linear measures of subacromial space in patients with subacromial impingement syndrome (SAIS). Background Abnormal scapular kinematics have been identified in patients with SAIS. Increased scapular upward rotation and posterior tilt, as induced with manual assistance using the SAT, have been theorized to increase subacromial space and may alter shoulder strength. Methods Forty-two subjects (21 with SAIS and 21 controls) participated in this study. The anterior outlet of the subacromial space, measured via the acromiohumeral distance on ultrasound images, and 3-dimensional scapular kinematics, measured using motion analysis, were determined with the arm at rest, and at 45° and 90° of active elevation with and without the SAT. A dynamometer was used to measure isometric shoulder strength. Full factorial mixed-model analyses of variance evaluated the effects of the SAT on variables between groups. Results There was an increase in scapular posterior tilt at all angles, upward rotation at rest and 45° of elevation, and acromiohumeral distance at 45° and at 90° with the SAT. The SAT did not alter normalized isometric strength. There were no differences in response to the SAT between the SAIS and control groups. Conclusion Manual scapular assistance using the SAT influences factors associated with SAIS, such as subacromial space and potentially scapular orientation during static arm elevation, but not more so in individuals with SAIS than in healthy individuals. The SAT performed statically may be a way to identify potential subgroups of individuals with SAIS for whom subacromial space narrowing may be a contributing factor. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2012;42(5):400–412, Epub 27 January 2012. doi:10.2519/jospt.2012.3579
When Two Worlds Collide: Ownership of Genetic Resources unde rthe Convention on Biological Diversity and the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights
Authors: Venbrux Greg K. 
Published: April 2012

The rapid growth of the biotechnology industry over the past two decades led many countries to recognize the vast economic potential of their genetic resources and indigenous knowledge. 1 Pharmaceutical companies and plant breeders increasingly rely upon these resources to engineer plantderived drugs, disease-resistant crops, and biotechnical production processes.2 With increasing demand for new biotechnological products, the global community is struggling to strike a balance between the interests of host countries, who seek remuneration for supplying genetic resources and traditional knowledge, and biotechnological inventors, who are pressing for free access, open markets, and stronger intellectual property rights protection.
Scare of Avian Flu Revisits India: A Bumpy Road Ahead
Authors: Rai Rajnish Kumar 
Published: April 2012

With the threat of an avian flu pandemic once again looming over eastern India, issues regarding patents and affordability and accessibility of drugs have taken center stage. The key priority of India should be to remain prepared to address the public health crisis effectively, by stockpiling the drug tamiflu so that it can be easily distributed and administered to the needy.India had been confronted with a serious threat of avian flu in 2005-06, but past experience shows that, despite having some of the broadest and most comprehensive compulsory patent licensing laws, India's policymaking elite shied away from fully exploiting these legal 'flexibilities.' Fortunately, the danger of avian flu did not turn into a substantial public health crisis that year. Under this backdrop, this paper explores various ‘flexibilities’ available in the Indian patent law and suggests short term and long term strategies to effectively tackle the impending danger of an avian flu pandemic, and similar public health crises in future. This paper will discuss potential areas of conflict between the indigenous generic drug firms and the multi-national companies with respect to TRIPS compliance in the event that these flexibilities are exploited. This paper also highlights the administrative constraints and the economic viability of the compulsory licensing system. Finally, this paper shows how political will is often more critical than having well documented provisions in statute books to respond to such situations effectively.
Prohibition’s Pending Demise: Internet Gambling & United States Policy
Authors: Koenig K. Alexa 
Published: April 2012

In this article, I posit that the United States is on the verge of a dramatic transformation with respect to its Internet gambling policy. Because of a sudden, renewed interest in harnessing online gambling profits for state benefit due to the current recession, there is a pressing and significant need for information about online gambling. This article provides an overview of the history of United States policy with respect to gambling, and illustrates the factors that must be met if widespread policy change is to succeed.