bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Regulation of Biofilm Components in Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium by Lytic Transglycosylases Involved in Cell Wall Turnover
Authors: Monteiro Claudia , Fang Xin , Ahmad Irfan , Gomelsky Mark , Römling Ute 
Published: October 2011

ABSTRACT

In
Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhimurium, a biofilm mode of growth known as the rdar morphotype is regulated by several networks which sense multiple environmental signals. The transcriptional regulator CsgD is the major target for these regulatory pathways. In this study, we show that two lytic transglycosylases of family I, MltE and MltC, in combination increase CsgD expression and rdar morphotype. MltE and MltC, which share a highly similar transglycosylase SLT domain, work redundantly to regulate CsgD at the transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels. The effect of MltE and MltC on CsgD levels was independent of the known regulatory pathways that sense cell envelope stress. These findings reveal, for the first time, a specific function of lytic transglycosylases in
S
. Typhimurium and suggest the existence of a new signaling pathway that links cell wall turnover to biofilm formation.
Condom use during commercial sex among clients of Hijra sex workers in Karachi, Pakistan (cross-sectional study)
Authors: Siddiqui Anees ur Rehman , Qian Han-Zhu , Altaf Arshad , Cassell Holly , Shah Sharaf Ali , Vermund Sten H 
Published: October 2011

ObjectiveTo describe the prevalence and predictors of condom use and sexual risk in the male clients of Hijra sex workers (HSWs) in Karachi, Pakistan.DesignCross-sectional study.SettingKarachi, Pakistan.ParticipantsClients of HSWs were recruited with assistance from HSWs and a non-governmental organisation (NGO) focused on men who have sex with men (MSM) during October–November 2010.MeasurementsThe interviewer administered the questionnaire to each participant to solicit information on demographics, HIV/AIDS knowledge/attitudes and sexual risk behaviours/practices, including condom use in the last sexual act with the HSW.ResultsOf the 203 participants, 42.4% reported that they used condoms during their last sexual act with HSW, 40% were married, 18% had ever used drugs or alcohol, and 52% reported also engaging with female sex workers in the last month. Casual HSW clients were more likely to use condoms than regular clients (adjusted OR (AOR), 2.50; 95% CI 1.34 to 4.65), as were persons with a higher education level (AOR 5.8; 95% CI 1.6 to 20.3). Drug/alcohol users and non-users were equally likely to use condoms (AOR 1.11; 95% CI 0.51 to 2.24).ConclusionClients of HSWs in Pakistan are at risk of acquiring HIV/STI infections. Concerted efforts are needed to increase condom use in this key bridge population to curtail the spread of HIV in the general population.
The association of maternal age with infant mortality, child anthropometric failure, diarrhoea and anaemia for first births: evidence from 55 low- and middle-income countries
Authors: Finlay Jocelyn E , Özaltin Emre , Canning David 
Published: October 2011

ObjectiveTo examine the association between maternal age at first birth and infant mortality, stunting, underweight, wasting, diarrhoea and anaemia in children in low- and middle-income countries.DesignCross-sectional analysis of nationally representative household samples. A modified Poisson regression model is used to estimate unadjusted and adjusted RR ratios.SettingLow- and middle-income countries.PopulationFirst births to women aged 12–35 where this birth occurred 12–60 months prior to interview. The sample for analysing infant mortality is comprised of 176 583 children in 55 low- and middle-income countries across 118 Demographic and Health Surveys conducted between 1990 and 2008.Main outcome measuresInfant mortality in children under 12 months and stunting, underweight, wasting, diarrhoea and anaemia in children under 5 years.ResultsThe investigation reveals two salient findings. First, in the sample of women who had their first birth between the ages of 12 and 35, the risk of poor child health outcome is lowest for women who have their first birth between the ages of 27 and 29. Second, the results indicate that both biological and social mechanisms play a role in explaining why children of young mothers have poorer outcomes.ConclusionsThe first-born children of adolescent mothers are the most vulnerable to infant mortality and poor child health outcomes. Additionally, first time mothers up to the age of 27 have a higher risk of having a child who has stunting, diarrhoea and moderate or severe anaemia. Maternal and child health programs should take account of this increased risk even for mothers in their early 20s. Increasing the age at first birth in developing countries may have large benefits in terms of child health.
Impact of walking on life expectancy and lifetime medical expenditure: the Ohsaki Cohort Study
Authors: Nagai Masato , Kuriyama Shinichi , Kakizaki Masako , Ohmori-Matsuda Kaori , Sone Toshimasa , Hozawa Atsushi , Kawado Miyuki , Hashimoto Shuji , Tsuji Ichiro 
Published: October 2011

ObjectivePeople who spend a longer time walking have lower demands for medical care. However, in view of their longer life expectancy, it is unclear whether their lifetime medical expenditure increases or decreases. The present study examined the association between time spent walking, life expectancy and lifetime medical expenditure.MethodThe authors followed up 27 738 participants aged 40–79 years and prospectively collected data on their medical expenditure and survival covering a 13-year-period. Participants were classified into those walking <1 and ≥1 h per day. The authors constructed life tables and estimated the life expectancy and lifetime medical expenditure from 40 years of age using estimate of multiadjusted mortality and medical expenditure using a Poisson regression model and linear regression model, respectively.ResultsParticipants who walked ≥1 h per day have a longer life expectancy from 40 years of age than participants who walked <1 h per day. The multiadjusted life expectancy for those who walked ≥1 h per day was 44.81 years, significantly lower by 1.38 years in men (p=0.0073) in men and 57.78 years in women, non-significantly lower by 1.16 years in women (p=0.2351). In addition to their longer life expectancy, participants who walked ≥1 h per day required a lower lifetime medical expenditure from 40 years of age than participants who walked <1 h per day. The multiadjusted lifetime medical expenditure for those who walked ≥1 h per day was £99 423.6, significantly lower by 7.6% in men (p=0.0048) and £128 161.2, non-significantly lower by 2.7% in women (p=0.2559).DiscussionIncreased longevity resulting from a healthier lifestyle does not necessarily translate into an increased amount of medical expenditure throughout life. Encouraging people to walk may extend life expectancy and decrease lifetime medical expenditure, especially for men.
Freestanding midwifery unit versus obstetric unit: a matched cohort study of outcomes in low-risk women
Authors: Overgaard Charlotte , Møller Anna Margrethe , Fenger-Grøn Morten , Knudsen Lisbeth B , Sandall Jane 
Published: October 2011

ObjectiveTo compare perinatal and maternal morbidity and birth interventions in low-risk women giving birth in two freestanding midwifery units (FMUs) and two obstetric units (OUs).DesignA cohort study with a matched control group.SettingThe region of North Jutland, Denmark.Participants839 low-risk women intending FMU birth and a matched control group of 839 low-risk women intending OU birth were included at the start of care in labour. OU women were individually chosen to match selected obstetric/socio-economic characteristics of FMU women. Analysis was by intention to treat.Main outcome measuresPerinatal and maternal morbidity and interventions.ResultsNo significant differences in perinatal morbidity were observed between groups (Apgar scores <7/5, <9/5 or <7/1, admittance to neonatal unit, asphyxia or readmission). Adverse outcomes were rare and occurred in both groups. FMU women were significantly less likely to experience an abnormal fetal heart rate (RR: 0.3, 95% CI 0.2 to 0.5), fetal–pelvic complications (0.2, 0.05 to 0.6), shoulder dystocia (0.3, 0.1 to 0.9), occipital–posterior presentation (0.5, 0.3 to 0.9) and postpartum haemorrhage >500 ml (0.4, 0.3 to 0.6) compared with OU women. Significant reductions were found for the FMU group's use of caesarean section (0.6, 0.3 to 0.9), instrumental delivery (0.4, 0.3 to 0.6), and oxytocin augmentation (0.5, 0.3 to 0.6) and epidural analgesia (0.4, 0.3 to 0.6). Transfer during or <2 h after birth occurred in 14.8% of all FMU births but more frequently in primiparas than in multiparas (36.7% vs 7.2%).ConclusionComparing FMU and OU groups, there was no increase in perinatal morbidity, but there were significantly reduced incidences of maternal morbidity, birth interventions including caesarean section, and increased likelihood of spontaneous vaginal birth. FMU care may be considered as an adequate alternative to OU care for low-risk women. Pregnant prospective mothers should be given an informed choice of place of birth, including information on transfer.
Homozygosity Mapping and Exome Sequencing Reveal
GATAD1
Mutation in Autosomal Recessive Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Theis Jeanne L. , Sharpe Katharine M. , Matsumoto Martha E. , Chai High Seng , Nair Asha A. , Theis Jason D. , de Andrade Mariza , Wieben Eric D. , Michels Virginia V. , Olson Timothy M. 
Published: October 2011

Background—
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a heritable, genetically heterogeneous disorder that typically exhibits autosomal dominant inheritance. Genomic strategies enable discovery of novel, unsuspected molecular underpinnings of familial DCM. We performed genome-wide mapping and exome sequencing in a unique family wherein DCM segregated as an autosomal recessive (AR) trait.

Methods and Results—

Echocardiography in 17 adult descendants of first cousins revealed DCM in 2 female siblings and idiopathic left ventricular enlargement in their brother. Genotyping and linkage analysis mapped an AR DCM locus to chromosome arm 7q21, which was validated and refined by high-density homozygosity mapping. Exome sequencing of the affected sisters was then used as a complementary strategy for mutation discovery. An iterative bioinformatics process was used to filter >40 000 genetic variants, revealing a single shared homozygous missense mutation localized to the 7q21 critical region. The mutation, absent in HapMap, 1000 Genomes, and 474 ethnically matched controls, altered a conserved residue of
GATAD1
, encoding GATA zinc finger domain-containing protein 1. Thirteen relatives were heterozygous mutation carriers with no evidence of myocardial disease, even at advanced ages. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated nuclear localization of GATAD1 in left ventricular myocytes, yet subcellular expression and nuclear morphology were aberrant in the proband.

Conclusions—

Linkage analysis and exome sequencing were used as synergistic genomic strategies to identify
GATAD1
as a gene for AR DCM. GATAD1 binds to a histone modification site that regulates gene expression. Consistent with murine DCM caused by genetic disruption of histone deacetylases, the data implicate an inherited basis for epigenetic dysregulation in human heart failure.
Zamyatin's novel We, in the context of works and ideas Proletkult
Authors: Aginsk Faith 
Published: October 2011

AbstractThis article provides an analysis of the dystopia We by Zamyatin in the light of Proletcult writings, reading the novel as a parody on their poetry and prose. Zamyatin wisely predicted the future of the society that was the dream of Proletcult writers, who glorified a society of robots, happily and blindly fulfilling all the orders of their government. The “heretic” Zamyatin could foresee the similar development of Russia after the October Revolution, which deprived the Russian people of any individuality and human rights, and depicted the One State and its Benefactor, very much reminding the author of his motherland.
Structure-unit cell-based approach on three-dimensional representative braided preforms from four-step braiding: Experimental determination of effects of structure-process parameters on predetermined yarn path
Authors: Bilisik Kadir , Sahbaz Nesrin 
Published: October 2011

The aim of this study was to understand the effects of braid pattern and the number of layers on three-dimensional (3D) braided unit cell structures. Various unit cell-based representative 3D braided preforms were developed. Data generated from these structures included unit cell dimensions, yarn angle, and yarn length in the unit cell structures. It was shown that braid patterns affected the 3D braided unit cell structures. The 1 × 1 braid pattern made fully interconnected integral 3D braided unit cell structures, whereas the 2 × 1 braid pattern created disconnected braid layers that were connected to the structures edges. When the number of layers increased, 3D braided unit cell thickness also increased. Braid pattern slightly affected the braider yarn angle, whereas the number of layers did not influence it. It was observed that the number of layers considerably affected the yarn length in the unit cell structure. Increasing the layer number from five to 10 layers created a yarn path in the unit cell edge regions called the ‘multilayer yarn length’. This yarn path was not observed below five-layer 3D braided unit cell structures. In jamming conditions, minimum jamming decreased the width of the unit cell structure, but maximum jamming increased its width. On the other hand, minimum jamming decreased the surface angle of the unit cell structure, whereas maximum jamming increased the surface angle. In addition, it was realized that jamming conditions influenced the density of the unit cell but did not affect the yarn length in the unit cell structures.
Septoplasty Improves Life Quality Related to Allergy in Patients with Septal Deviation and Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Kim Young Hyo , Kim Beom Joon , Bang Kang Hyun , Hwang Yoonseok , Jang Tae Young 
Published: October 2011

ObjectiveEvaluate the effect of septoplasty on the clinical course of allergic rhinitis by comparing (1) symptom change using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), (2) change of the medication score, and (3) improvement of the quality of life using a questionnaire.Study DesignProspective pilot.SettingAcademic tertiary rhinological practice.Subjects and MethodsSixty‐two patients who had undergone septoplasty and turbinoplasty for septal deviation and allergic rhinitis were enrolled in group A. Twenty‐six patients who had undergone only turbinoplasty for allergic rhinitis were enrolled in group B. The VAS score, the Average Rescue Medication Score (ARMS), and the Rhinasthma Questionnaire for the quality of life were all obtained from each patient. These parameters were compared before and after the surgery and between the groups.ResultsBoth groups showed significant improvement of the VAS score (P <. 001). When the change of VAS was compared between groups, there was a significant difference in group A only for nasal obstruction (P =. 047). Comparison of the ARMS between groups showed significant improvement in both groups after the surgery (P <. 01). However, there were no differences between the groups. The Rhinasthma score of group A was significantly lowered after the surgery (56.4 ± 13.2 to 34.1 ± 12.3, P <. 001). The Rhinasthma score of group A was significantly lower than that of group B after the surgery (P =. 004).ConclusionsThis is the first research about the potential effect of septoplasty on the clinical course of allergic rhinitis. Further studies are needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying these effects.
Mirror Biofeedback Rehabilitation after Administration of Single‐Dose Botulinum Toxin for Treatment of Facial Synkinesis
Authors: Azuma Takahiro , Nakamura Katsuhiko , Takahashi Mika , Ohyama Seizo , Toda Naoki , Iwasaki Hidetaka , Kalubi Bukasa , Takeda Noriaki 
Published: October 2011

ObjectiveThe efficacy of facial biofeedback rehabilitation with a mirror after administration of a single dose of botulinum A toxin on facial synkinesis was examined in patients with chronic facial palsy.Study DesignProspective clinical study.SettingUniversity hospital.Subjects and MethodsThe present study includes 8 patients with Bell palsy and 5 with herpes zoster oticus showing facial synkinesis. A single dose of botulinum A toxin was used as the initial process of facial rehabilitation. Patients then continued a daily facial biofeedback rehabilitation with a mirror at home. They were instructed to keep their eyes symmetrically open using a mirror during mouth movements. The degree of oral‐ocular synkinesis was evaluated by the degree of asymmetry of eye opening width during mouth movements (% eye opening).ResultsAfter administration of a single dose of botulinum A toxin, temporary relief of facial synkinesis was observed in all patients. Patients were then instructed to continue the facial biofeedback rehabilitation with a mirror for 10 months. The mean values of the percent of eye opening during 3 designated mouth movements that included lip pursing /u:/, teeth baring /i:/, and cheek puffing /pu:/ increased significantly after 10 months when the effects of botulinum A toxin had completely disappeared.ConclusionThese findings demonstrate that facial biofeedback rehabilitation with a mirror after administration of a single dose of botulinum A toxin is a long‐lasting treatment of established facial synkinesis in patients with chronic facial palsy.
The Long Head of the Biceps Tendon Has Minimal Effect on In Vivo Glenohumeral Kinematics
Authors: Giphart J. Erik , Elser Florian , Dewing Christopher B. , Torry Michael R. , Millett Peter J. 
Published: October 2011

Background: The in vivo stabilizing role of the long head of the biceps tendon (LHB) is poorly understood. While cadaveric studies report that the loaded LHB constrains translations in all directions, clinical data suggest that there is no clinically demonstrable alteration in glenohumeral position after LHB tenodesis or tenotomy. The purpose of this study was to investigate potential alterations in glenohumeral kinematics after LHB tenodesis during 3 dynamic in vivo motions using a biplane fluoroscopy system. Hypothesis: Our hypothesis was that there would be no difference in glenohumeral translations greater than 1.0 mm between shoulders after biceps tenodesis and healthy contralateral shoulders. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: Five patients who underwent unilateral, open subpectoral tenodesis performed abduction, a simulated late cocking phase of a throw, and simulated lifting with both their tenodesed shoulder and their contralateral healthy shoulder inside a biplane fluoroscopy system. Dynamic 3-dimensional glenohumeral positions and electromyography activity of the biceps brachii muscle were determined and compared. Results: Significant glenohumeral translations occurred in both shoulders for abduction (3.4 mm inferiorly; P < .01) and simulated late cocking (2.6 mm anteriorly; P < .01). The mean difference for each motion in glenohumeral position between the tenodesed and the contralateral healthy shoulders was always less than 1.0 mm. The tenodesed shoulders were more anterior (centered) during abduction (0.7 mm; P < .01) and for the eccentric phase of the simulated late cocking motion (0.9 mm; P < .02). No significant differences were found during the simulated lifting motion and in the superior-inferior direction. Conclusion: The effect of biceps tenodesis on glenohumeral position during the motions studied in vivo was minimal compared with physiological translations and interpatient variability. Clinical Relevance: Our findings demonstrated that LHB tenodesis does not dramatically alter glenohumeral position during dynamic motions, suggesting the risk for clinically significant alterations in glenohumeral kinematics after tenodesis is low in otherwise intact shoulders.
Examining sleep, fatigue, and daytime sleepiness in pediatric multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Zafar Abu-Bakar , Ness Jayne , Dowdy Sarah , Avis Kristin , Bashir Khurram 
Published: October 2011

Background: About 2–5% of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience their first symptoms before age 18. Sleep disorders occur frequently in MS. The prevalence of sleep problems and their impact on fatigue and daytime sleepiness in pediatric MS is unknown. Objective: To determine whether pediatric MS patients have more sleep disturbances, fatigue, and daytime sleepiness compared with an age-, sex-, and race-matched control group. Methods: Patients and age-, sex-, and race-matched controls were surveyed to quantify daytime sleepiness via the modified Epworth Sleepiness Scale, sleep quality and hygiene through the Adolescent Sleep Wake and Hygiene Scale, respectively, and fatigue using the PediatricQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale. Results: Pediatric MS patients ( n = 30) and age-, sex-, and race-matched controls ( n = 52) had similar levels of fatigue; however, when compared with previously published historical controls, both groups reported worse fatigue across all dimensions ( p < 0.05). Pediatric MS patients also had similar sleep quality compared with the matched controls, but reported better sleep hygiene on the ‘sleep stability’ dimension ( p < 0.05). In addition, pediatric MS patients had less daytime sleepiness than the matched controls ( p < 0.05). Conclusion: Although patients with MS reported similar levels of fatigue, they have better sleep hygiene, which could possibly account for the decreased amount of excessive daytime sleepiness. Also, when compared with historical controls, the MS and control samples reported more fatigue. Thus, caution must be taken when using published control data, especially when not properly matched.
Type D personality and health status in cardiovascular disease populations: a meta-analysis of prospective studies
Authors: Versteeg Henneke , Spek Viola , Pedersen Susanne S , Denollet Johan 
Published: October 2011

Abstract

Background
Knowledge of the factors associated with individual differences in patient-reported outcomes is essential to identify high-risk patients and improve secondary prevention. Design: In this meta-analysis, we examined the association between Type D personality and the individual differences in patient-reported physical and mental health status among cardiovascular patients.

Methods
A computerized search of the literature through PUBMED and PsychINFO (from 1995 to May 2011) was performed and prospective studies were selected that analysed the association between Type D personality and health status in cardiovascular patients. Two separate meta-analyses were performed for the association of Type D personality with physical and mental health status, respectively.

Results
Of all identified studies, ten studies met the selection criteria. The meta-analyses showed that Type D was associated with a two-fold increased odds for impaired physical health status (3035 patients, OR 1.94, 95% CI 1.49–2.52) and a 2.5-fold increased odds for impaired mental health status (2213 patients, OR 2.55, 95% CI 1.57–4.16). There was no significant heterogeneity between the studies on physical health status (Q = 12.78; p = 0.17; I2 = 29.59), but there was between those on mental health status (Q = 21.91; p = 0.003; I2 = 68.04). Subgroup analyses showed that the association between Type D and mental health status decreased yet remained significant when adjusting for baseline health status.

Conclusion
Type D personality was shown to be an independent correlate of impaired patient-reported physical and mental health status in various cardiovascular patient groups. Clinicians should be aware of the association between chronic psychological distress and poor patient-reported outcomes.