bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First Report of Phytoplasmas Groups 16SrI and 16SrXV in Crotalaria juncea in Brazil
Authors: Bianco L. F. , Martins E. C. , Toloy R. S. , Coletti D. A. B. , Teixeira D. C. , Wulff N. A.
Published: February 2014

Sunn hemp (Crotalaria juncea L., Fabaceae) is widely used as a cover crop in sugar cane and citrus plantations in Brazil. C. juncea has been reported in São Paulo State (SPS) by Wulff et al. (3) as a host of the phytoplasma associated with symptoms of huanglongbing (HLB) in citrus, a member of group 16SrIX, that induces witches'-broom in sunn hemp (3). In studying the distribution of group 16SrIX phytoplasma in C. juncea in SPS, we identified this species as a new host of two phytoplasmas. Sunn hemp fields were inspected for symptoms usually associated with phytoplasma infections, such as leaf yellowing, shoot proliferation, witches'-brooms, and virescence. Ninety-nine plant samples were collected and DNA was extracted with the CTAB protocol from stems. Nested PCR was carried out with primers P1/P7, followed by amplification with primers fU3/rU5 (2), both sets being universal for phytoplasma. Asymptomatic sunn hemp samples were used as negative controls and were negative in PCR reactions. PCR products were directly sequenced with primers P1/P7 and fU3/rU5 and phytoplasma identification was conducted with BLASTn and in silico RFLP analysis for delineation of subgroups (4). Plants showing leaf yellowing (three plants; Catanduva County), shoot proliferation (one plant; Ibirá County), or witches'-brooms (one plant; Promissão County) symptoms were found to be infected with the 16SrI phytoplasma group, subgroup S. The 16S rDNA sequence (GenBank Accession No. KF878383) showed 99% identity (E value 0.0) with Candidatus Phytoplasma asteris, Onion yellows phytoplasma OY-M (AP006628), Mulberry yellow dwarf phytoplasma (GQ249410), and Ash witches'-broom phytoplasma (AY566302), among other phytoplasmas from the same group. Sunn hemp plants with shoot proliferation (three plants) carried the 16SrXV phytoplasma group, subgroup A, found in Ibirá (two plants) and Catanduva (one plant) counties, SPS. This sequence (GenBank Accession No. KF878382) displayed 99% identity (E value 0.0) with Ca. P. brasiliense, Hibiscus witches'-broom phytoplasma (AF147708), Guazuma ulmifolia witches'-broom phytoplasma (HQ258882, HQ258883), and Cauliflower stunt phytoplasma (JN818845). Both phytoplasma groups described in this report, 16SrI and 16SrXV, were collected in May 2010 and both have limited geographic distribution and occurred at low incidence. Phytoplasma of group 16SrI (Ca. P. asteris) was identified in C. spectabilis in India (1). To our knowledge, this is the first report of phytoplasmas groups 16SrI and 16SrXV in sunn hemp.

References: (1) S. Kumar et al. Plant Dis. 94:1265, 2010. (2) E. Seemüller et al. Int. J. Syst. Bacteriol. 44:440, 1994. (3) N. A. Wulff et al. Tropical Plant Pathol. 34:S7, 2009. (4) Y. Zhao et al. Int. J. Syst. Evol. Microbiol. 59:2582, 2009.
Multilocus Analysis Using Putative Fungal Effectors to Describe a Population of Fusarium oxysporum from Sugar Beet
Authors: Covey Paul A. , Kuwitzky Brett , Hanson Mia , Webb Kimberly M.
Published: February 2014

Sugar beet (Beta vulgaris) Fusarium yellows is caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. betae and can lead to significant reductions in root yield, sucrose percentage, juice purity, and storability. F. oxysporum f. sp. betae can be highly variable and many F. oxysporum strains isolated from symptomatic sugar beet are nonpathogenic. Identifying pathogenicity factors and their diversity in the F. oxysporum f. sp. betae population could further understanding of how this pathogen causes disease and potentially provide molecular markers to rapidly identify pathogenic isolates. This study used several previously described fungal effector genes (Fmk1, Fow1, Pda1, PelA, PelD, Pep1, Prt1, Rho1, Sge1, Six1, Six6, Snf1, and Ste12) as genetic markers, in a population of 26 pathogenic and nonpathogenic isolates of F. oxysporum originally isolated from symptomatic sugar beet. Of the genes investigated, six were present in all F. oxysporum isolates from sugar beet (Fmk1, Fow1, PelA, Rho1, Snf1, and Ste12), and seven were found to be dispersed within the population (Pda1, PelD, Pep1, Prt1, Sge1, Six1, and Six6). Of these, Fmk1, Fow1, PelA, Rho1, Sge1, Snf1, and Ste12 were significant in relating clade designations and PelD, and Prt1 were significant for correlating with pathogenicity in F. oxysporum f. sp. betae.
Characterization of Basidiomycetes Associated with Wood Rot of Citrus in Southern Italy
Authors: Roccotelli Angela , Schena Leonardo , Sanzani Simona M. , Cacciola Santa O. , Mosca Saveria , Faedda Roberto , Ippolito Antonio , di San Lio Gaetano Magnano
Published: February 2014

The characterization of Basidiomycetes associated with wood rots in commercial citrus orchards in southern Italy revealed that both white and brown rot fungi are implicated in this disease. Fomitiporia mediterranea was the most prevalent species causing a white rot, followed by Fomitopsis sp. which, by contrast, was associated with brown rot wood decay. Furthermore, Phellinus spp. and other nonidentified basidiomycetous fungi showing genetic affinity with the genera Phellinus and Coniophora were occasionally isolated. Artificial inoculations on lemon (Citrus limon) branches showed a faster wood colonization by Fomitopsis sp. compared with F. mediterranea, indicating that the former species as a potentially serious pathogen of citrus trees. The analysis of F. mediterranea internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences revealed a high level of genetic variability, with 13 genotypes which were both homozygous (6 genotypes) and heterozygous (7 genotypes). The presence of heterozygous genomes based on ITS sequences has never been reported before for F. mediterranea. This, together with the high frequency of basidiomata on infected wood, unambiguously confirms the outcrossing nature of reproduction in F. mediterranea and the primary role of basidiospores in the dissemination of inoculum. Similarly, high genetic variability was observed analyzing Fomitopsis sp. Because basidiomata of this fungus have not been observed on citrus trees, it can be hypothesized that basidiospores are produced on alternative host plants.
Effect of an Outer Sleeve on an Inflatable Balloon Tamp in Terms of Height Restoration Under Simulated Physiological Load
Authors: Peppelman Walter C. , Beutler William , Gordon Michael , Chintakunta Suresh R. , O’Halloran Damien , Bucklen Brandon
Published: February 2014

Study Design:

An in vitro biomechanical study.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of an optional sleeve on height restoration and compare it with the fracture reduction achieved by a commercially available inflatable bone tamp under simulated physiological load (110 N).

Summary of Background Data:

Loss of reduction after bone tamp deflation before cement injection still remains a concern. The optional sleeve surrounds the bone tamp to help maintain height during the kyphoplasty procedure while filling the created cavity with bone cement on the contralateral side.

Methods:

Eighteen osteoporotic vertebral bodies (VBs) (T11–L4) were alternately assigned to 1 of the 2 treatment groups: group A: KYPHON (Kyphon Inc.) and group B: AFFIRM with sleeve (Globus Medical Inc.). The VBs were compressed axially at a rate of 5 mm/min until compressed to 40% of the initial anterior height. The fractured VBs then underwent kyphoplasty with cement augmentation while still maintaining load (110 N). The augmented VBs were then recompressed and anterior VB height (mm) and wedge angle (degrees) were measured initially after mechanically creating an anterior wedge fracture, and after repairing the compression fracture. The effect of kyphoplasty on vertebral height, kyphotic angle, cement volumes, and inflation pressures were compared between the treatment groups. Failure load (N) data were compared between intact and repaired VBs.

Results:

Average percentage of lost VB height restored in group A was 30%, compared with 56% for group B. The mean changes in wedge angle were similar to those of vertebral height measurements. No significant difference in mean inflation pressures (group A: 175±37 psi; group B: 160±36 psi) were found between the 2 groups. Average percentage increase in failure load was 241% and 212% in groups A and B, respectively.

Conclusions:

Some height restoration was observed using the commercially available bone tamp in fractured VBs under simulated physiological load. The use of an outer sleeve significantly enhanced height restoration compared with the inflatable bone tamp alone.
Conserved signature indels and signature proteins as novel tools for understanding microbial phylogeny and systematics: identification of molecular signatures that are specific for the phytopathogenic genera Dickeya, Pectobacterium and Brenneria
Authors: Naushad Hafiz Sohail , Lee Brian , Gupta Radhey S.
Published: February 2014

Genome sequences are enabling applications of different approaches to more clearly understand microbial phylogeny and systematics. Two of these approaches involve identification of conserved signature indels (CSIs) and conserved signature proteins (CSPs) that are specific for different lineages. These molecular markers provide novel and more definitive means for demarcation of prokaryotic taxa and for identification of species from these groups. Genome sequences are also enabling determination of phylogenetic relationships among species based upon sequences for multiple proteins. In this work, we have used all of these approaches for studying the phytopathogenic bacteria belonging to the genera

Dickeya

,

Pectobacterium

and

Brenneria

. Members of these genera, which cause numerous diseases in important food crops and ornamental plants, are presently distinguished mainly on the basis of their branching in phylogenetic trees. No biochemical or molecular characteristic is known that is uniquely shared by species from these genera. Hence, detailed studies using the above approaches were carried out on proteins from the genomes of these bacteria to identify molecular markers that are specific for them. In phylogenetic trees based upon concatenated sequences for 23 conserved proteins, members of the genera

Dickeya

,

Pectobacterium

and

Brenneria

formed a strongly supported clade within the other

Enterobacteriales

. Comparative analysis of protein sequences from the

Dickeya

,

Pectobacterium

and

Brenneria

genomes has identified 10 CSIs and five CSPs that are either uniquely or largely found in all genome-sequenced species from these genera, but not present in any other bacteria in the database. In addition, our analyses have identified 10 CSIs and 17 CSPs that are specifically present in either all or most sequenced

Dickeya

species/strains, and six CSIs and 19 CSPs that are uniquely found in the sequenced

Pectobacterium

genomes. Finally, our analysis also identified three CSIs and one CSP that are specifically shared by members of the genera

Pectobacterium

and

Brenneria

, but absent in species of the genus

Dickeya

, indicating that the former two genera shared a common ancestor exclusive of

Dickeya

. The identified CSIs and CSPs provide novel tools for identification of members of the genera

Dickeya

and

Pectobacterium

and for delimiting these taxa in molecular terms. Descriptions of the genera

Dickeya

and

Pectobacterium

have been revised to provide information for these molecular markers. Biochemical studies on these CSIs and CSPs, which are specific for these genera, may lead to discovery of novel properties that are unique to these bacteria and which could be targeted to develop antibacterial agents that are specific for these plant-pathogenic bacteria.
Taxonomic use of DNA G+C content and DNA–DNA hybridization in the genomic age
Authors: Meier-Kolthoff Jan P. , Klenk Hans-Peter , Göker Markus
Published: February 2014

The G+C content of a genome is frequently used in taxonomic descriptions of species and genera. In the past it has been determined using conventional, indirect methods, but it is nowadays reasonable to calculate the DNA G+C content directly from the increasingly available and affordable genome sequences. The expected increase in accuracy, however, might alter the way in which the G+C content is used for drawing taxonomic conclusions. We here re-estimate the literature assumption that the G+C content can vary up to 3–5 % within species using genomic datasets. The resulting G+C content differences are compared with DNA–DNA hybridization (DDH) similarities calculated in silico using the GGDC web server, with 70 % similarity as the gold standard threshold for species boundaries. The results indicate that the G+C content, if computed from genome sequences, varies no more than 1 % within species. Statistical models based on larger differences alone can reject the hypothesis that two strains belong to the same species. Because DDH similarities between two non-type strains occur in the genomic datasets, we also examine to what extent and under which conditions such a similarity could be <70 % even though the similarity of either strain to a type strain was ≥70 %. In theory, their similarity could be as low as 50 %, whereas empirical data suggest a boundary closer (but not identical) to 70 %. However, it is shown that using a 50 % boundary would not affect the conclusions regarding the DNA G+C content. Hence, we suggest that discrepancies between G+C content data provided in species descriptions on the one hand and those recalculated after genome sequencing on the other hand ≥1 % are due to significant inaccuracies of the applied conventional methods and accordingly call for emendations of species descriptions.
Centromere reference models for human chromosomes X and Y satellite arrays
Authors: Miga Karen H. , Newton Yulia , Jain Miten , Altemose Nicolas , Willard Huntington F. , Kent W. James
Published: February 2014

The human genome sequence remains incomplete, with multimegabase-sized gaps representing the endogenous centromeres and other heterochromatic regions. Available sequence-based studies within these sites in the genome have demonstrated a role in centromere function and chromosome pairing, necessary to ensure proper chromosome segregation during cell division. A common genomic feature of these regions is the enrichment of long arrays of near-identical tandem repeats, known as satellite DNAs, which offer a limited number of variant sites to differentiate individual repeat copies across millions of bases. This substantial sequence homogeneity challenges available assembly strategies and, as a result, centromeric regions are omitted from ongoing genomic studies. To address this problem, we utilize monomer sequence and ordering information obtained from whole-genome shotgun reads to model two haploid human satellite arrays on chromosomes X and Y, resulting in an initial characterization of 3.83 Mb of centromeric DNA within an individual genome. To further expand the utility of each centromeric reference sequence model, we evaluate sites within the arrays for short-read mappability and chromosome specificity. Because satellite DNAs evolve in a concerted manner, we use these centromeric assemblies to assess the extent of sequence variation among 366 individuals from distinct human populations. We thus identify two satellite array variants in both X and Y centromeres, as determined by array length and sequence composition. This study provides an initial sequence characterization of a regional centromere and establishes a foundation to extend genomic characterization to these sites as well as to other repeat-rich regions within complex genomes.
Two Arabidopsis Loci Encode Novel Eukaryotic Initiation Factor 4E Isoforms That Are Functionally Distinct from the Conserved Plant Eukaryotic Initiation Factor 4E
Authors: Patrick Ryan M. , Mayberry Laura K. , Choy Grace , Woodard Lauren E. , Liu Joceline S. , White Allyson , Mullen Rebecca A. , Tanavin Toug M. , Latz Christopher A. , Browning Karen S.
Published: February 2014

Canonical translation initiation in eukaryotes begins with the Eukaryotic Initiation Factor 4F (eIF4F) complex, made up of eIF4E, which recognizes the 7-methylguanosine cap of messenger RNA, and eIF4G, which serves as a scaffold to recruit other translation initiation factors that ultimately assemble the 80S ribosome. Many eukaryotes have secondary EIF4E genes with divergent properties. The model plant Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) encodes two such genes in tandem loci on chromosome 1, EIF4E1B (At1g29550) and EIF4E1C (At1g29590). This work identifies EIF4E1B/EIF4E1C-type genes as a Brassicaceae-specific diverged form of EIF4E. There is little evidence for EIF4E1C gene expression; however, the EIF4E1B gene appears to be expressed at low levels in most tissues, though microarray and RNA Sequencing data support enrichment in reproductive tissue. Purified recombinant eIF4E1b and eIF4E1c proteins retain cap-binding ability and form functional complexes in vitro with eIF4G. The eIF4E1b/eIF4E1c-type proteins support translation in yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) but promote translation initiation in vitro at a lower rate compared with eIF4E. Findings from surface plasmon resonance studies indicate that eIF4E1b and eIF4E1c are unlikely to bind eIF4G in vivo when in competition with eIF4E. This study concludes that eIF4E1b/eIF4E1c-type proteins, although bona fide cap-binding proteins, have divergent properties and, based on apparent limited tissue distribution in Arabidopsis, should be considered functionally distinct from the canonical plant eIF4E involved in translation initiation.
Monitoring Plant Drought Stress Response Using Terahertz Time-Domain Spectroscopy
Authors: Born Norman , Behringer David , Liepelt Sascha , Beyer Sarah , Schwerdtfeger Michael , Ziegenhagen Birgit , Koch Martin
Published: February 2014

We present a novel measurement setup for monitoring changes in leaf water status using nondestructive terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS). Previous studies on a variety of plants showed the principal applicability of THz-TDS. In such setups, decreasing leaf water content directly correlates with increasing THz transmission. Our new system allows for continuous, nondestructive monitoring of the water status of multiple individual plants each at the same constant leaf position. It overcomes previous drawbacks, which were mainly due to the necessity of relocating the plants. Using needles of silver fir (Abies alba) seedlings as test subjects, we show that the transmission varies along the main axis of a single needle due to a variation in thickness. Therefore, the relocation of plants during the measuring period, which was necessary in the previous THz-TDS setups, should be avoided. Furthermore, we show a highly significant correlation between gravimetric water content and respective THz transmission. By monitoring the relative change in transmission, we were able to narrow down the permanent wilting point of the seedlings. Thus, we established groups of plants with well-defined levels of water stress that could not be detected visually. This opens up the possibility for a broad range of genetic and physiological experiments.
Traits of plant communities in fragmented forests: the relative influence of habitat spatial configuration and local abiotic conditions
Authors: Kimberley Adam , Alan Blackburn G. , Duncan Whyatt J. , Smart Simon M.
Published: February 2014

The plant trait composition of forest fragments is thought to be partly determined by forest spatial properties, although the relative importance of habitat configuration and local abiotic drivers is poorly understood.

To address this issue, large‐scale habitat extent data were combined with detailed field survey information for temperate broad‐leaved deciduous forest patches to quantify the relative effects of spatial and abiotic filters on plant community mean trait values.

Local conditions such as shade and soil fertility had the largest effect on mean trait values, but aspects of habitat configuration also had significant partial effects on a number of traits.

Mean trait values within older forest patches were more strongly influenced by forest spatial configuration than in younger patches.

Synthesis. Results indicate that, in addition to the effects of greater light availability and competition in small patches and at forest edges, aspects of habitat configuration such as patch size and isolation are themselves important factors limiting the occurrence of forest specialist species. Large areas of core forest habitat contain a greater proportion of rare, poor dispersing species, although these effects were less visible in more recently established forest. This highlights the importance of maintaining existing large and old forest patches as a refuge for forest specialist plants. The results of this comparison of spatial and abiotic variables suggest that controlling the spatial properties of forest patches is likely to prove an effective way of managing plant species diversity, provided that sites with appropriate abiotic conditions are chosen.
Viability of Human Articular Chondrocytes Harvested Postmortem: Changes with Time and Temperature ofIn VitroCulture Conditions
Authors: Alibegović Armin , Balažic Jože , Petrovič Danijel , Hribar Gorazd , Blagus Rok , Drobnič Matej
Published: February 2014

Different studies of long‐term chondrocytes viability have shown a gradual reduction as a function of time and ambient temperature. The aim of ourin vitrostudy was to establish chondrocytepostmortemviability curves for 4°C, 11°C, 23°C, 35°C during 63 days after the donors' death. Osteochondral cylinders were procured from the knees of 16 male donors (20–47 years), stored in preservation media that was not changed, and analyzed in 3‐day intervals using a confocal laser scanning microscope. A significant influence of time on viability was found from Day 9 (p = 0.0029) and onwards (p < 0.0001). The lowest overall chondrocyte viability was at 35°C, followed by 4°C (p < 0.0001). The conditions used in thisin vitroanalysis suggest that similar viabilities may occur whilein situin the decedent. Further studies of chondrocyte viability from individuals with knownpostmortemintervals may show premise to help evaluate time since death in the latepostmorteminterval.
Homicide by a Forensic Female Sample in Brazil: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Valença Alexandre M. , Nardi Antonio E. , Nascimento Isabella , Jozef Flávio , Mendlowicz Mauro V.
Published: February 2014

The objective of the study was to evaluate the mental status of all women (n = 14) who were acquitted by reason of insanity of charges of murder or attempted murder and committed to a forensic psychiatric hospital in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. All cases were retrospectively examined, including medical files, technical records, and forensic experts' official reports. A conclusive psychiatric diagnosis was established using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM‐IV Axis I and II Disorders and clinical and forensic records. The most common diagnosis was schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorders (n = 8; 57.3%). Most victims (n = 12; 75%) were close relatives of the patients. We found that 43% (n = 6) of the patients had a previous history of violent behavior. According to the initial psychiatric forensic evaluation, 5 patients (35.7%) had psychotic symptoms. It is expected that a growing understanding of motivational factors underlying homicidal behavior in mentally disturbed female offenders may further the implementation of effective preventive and therapeutic interventions.
Comparative Forensic Soil Analysis of New Jersey State Parks Using a Combination of Simple Techniques with Multivariate Statistics,
Authors: Bonetti Jennifer , Quarino Lawrence
Published: February 2014

This study has shown that the combination of simple techniques with the use of multivariate statistics offers the potential for the comparative analysis of soil samples. Five samples were obtained from each of twelve state parks acrossNewJersey in both the summer and fall seasons. Each sample was examined using particle‐size distribution, pHanalysis in both water and 1 M CaCl2, and a loss on ignition technique. Data from each of the techniques were combined, and principal component analysis (PCA) and canonical discriminant analysis (CDA) were used for multivariate data transformation. Samples from different locations could be visually differentiated from one another using these multivariate plots. Hold‐one‐out cross‐validation analysis showed error rates as low as 3.33%. Ten blind study samples were analyzed resulting in no misclassifications usingMahalanobis distance calculations and visual examinations of multivariate plots. Seasonal variation was minimal between corresponding samples, suggesting potential success in forensic applications.
Improving Sex Estimation from Crania Using a Novel Three‐dimensional Quantitative Method,,
Authors: Abdel Fatah Emam E. , Shirley Natalie R. , Jantz Richard L. , Mahfouz Mohamed R.
Published: February 2014

This study utilizes an innovative 3D approach to discover metric variables that obtain the highest classification rates for sex estimation from the cranium. Models were constructed from 222 cranialCTscans of U.S. Whites from the Bass Donated Collection. These models were used to create a statistical bone atlas that captures the primary shape variation in the skull and facilitates rapid computer‐automated analyses. The bone atlas showed that important size‐related sex variables are bizygomatic breadth, maximum cranial length, cranial base length, and mastoid height. Shape‐related variables capture sex differences in the projection of the glabellar region, inclination of the frontal, and cranial base flexion. In addition, vault thickness is highly dimorphic, with females having on average thicker vaults in the frontal region, and males having thicker vaults in the occipital region. Cross‐validated linear discriminant analysis obtained >95% accuracy (97.5% with 11 variables and 95.5% with eight variables).
Fatal Caffeine Intoxication: A Series of Eight Cases from 1999 to 2009
Authors: Banerjee Priya , Ali Zabiullah , Levine Barry , Fowler David R.
Published: February 2014

Caffeine, 1,3,7‐trimethylxanthine, is the most widely consumed legal stimulant. The most potent form is over the counter oral tablets. The estimated average daily adult caffeine consumption is 300 mg. Rarely, serious toxicities such as seizure and cardiac arrhythmias have caused death. Caffeine concentrations of 80 mg/L are considered lethal. Cases investigated over 10 years by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for the State of Maryland (OCME) whose cause of death was solely or in combination due to caffeine intoxication were reviewed. A total of eight adult cases were identified consisting of two suicides and six undetermined manners. The average postmortem caffeine concentration was 140.4 mg/L. This is the largest case series reported to date of lethal caffeine intoxication. Large doses of prescription medications and/or over the counter medications were abused. No overdoses were from consumption of caffeine‐containing foods. Comprehensive postmortem toxicological testing should test for caffeine to capture these rare deaths.
Distribution of Venlafaxine, O‐desmethylvenlafaxine, and O‐desmethylvenlafaxine to Venlafaxine Ratio in Postmortem Human Brain Tissue
Authors: Murrell Meredith D. , Cruz Dianne A. , Javors Martin A. , Thompson Peter M.
Published: February 2014

Venlafaxine (VEN) and its metabolite O‐desmethylvenlafaxine (ODV) inhibit reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine. This study examines whether VEN is differentially distributed in postmortem brain and examines relationships between brain and femoral blood concentrations from donors prescribed VEN for treatment of depression. Using high‐pressure liquid chromatography‐ultraviolet detection, VEN and ODV concentrations were measured in temporal, occipital, and cerebellar cortex of six postmortem brains. The ODV/VEN ratio was calculated as a relative measure of drug metabolism within each region where higher ratios indicated a greater conversion of VEN to ODV. Compared to the other regions examined, the cerebellum showed decreased VEN (p = 0.056), ODV (p = 0.006), and ODV/VEN (p = 0.027) ratios. In parts per million, VEN was higher in temporal and occipital cortex, but not cerebellum, as compared to femoral blood concentration. These observations suggest that VEN and ODV are differentially distributed in the brain, and metabolism of VEN to ODV may vary across brain regions.
Dating of Inkpad Seals Using the Extraction Rate Method: Preliminary Findings
Authors: Li Biao , Bai Feng , Mu Huayan , Bao Ren
Published: February 2014

Inkpad seals are often placed on important documents, and determining the date when a seal was affixed can be important to assess the authenticity of a document. In this study, three different brands of inkpads and four different types of paper were used to make diachronic samples of the seals. A double‐solvent extraction method was employed to date the inkpad seals by comparing extraction rates with inks of known age. Cyclohexane was selected as a weak solvent, and chlorobenzene was selected as a strong solvent. After testing, curves were created to show the relationship between the extraction percentage of ink and the date of the seals. The experimental results showed that the extraction rate method was applicable for the relative dating of inkpad seals in some cases where the seal was placed on the document within 6 months.
Quantifying the Temperature of Maggot Masses and its Relationship to Decomposition
Authors: Heaton Vivienne , Moffatt Colin , Simmons Tal
Published: February 2014

Numerous Calliphoridae species have been observed to form larval aggregations during the feeding stage of development, resulting in localized increases in temperature. This study investigates the relationship between maggot numbers in a mass and heat generation. Single‐species aggregations (Lucilia sericata) of various sizes (50–2500 individuals) were reared in the laboratory at a constant ambient temperature of 22°C. Internal mass temperatures were recorded every 5 min throughout the feeding stage of development. Results showed that mass temperatures increased with mass numbers (p‐value < 0.001), ranging from 2.5 to 14°C above ambient. A minimum mass size of 1200 produced overall temperatures that were significantly warmer than ambient, diverging away from 22°C after c. 26 h. These results indicate that the microclimate of a mass has the potential to differ significantly from ambient, which may be influencing larval development rates and should therefore be factored into mPMI estimates to increase accuracy.
Progress Toward the Determination of Correct Classification Rates in Fire Debris Analysis II: Utilizing Soft Independent Modeling of Class Analogy (SIMCA)
Authors: Waddell Erin E. , Williams Mary R. , Sigman Michael E.
Published: February 2014

A multistep classification scheme was used to detect and classify ignitable liquid residues in fire debris into the classes defined by the ASTM E1618‐10 standard method. The total ion spectra (TIS) of the samples were classified by soft independent modeling of class analogy (SIMCA) with cross‐validation and tested on fire debris. For detection of ignitable liquid residue, the true‐positive rate was 94.2% for cross‐validation and 79.1% for fire debris, with false‐positive rates of 5.1% and 8.9%, respectively. Evaluation of SIMCA classifications for fire debris relative to a reviewer's examination led to an increase in the true‐positive rate to 95.1%; however, the false‐positive rate also increased to 15.0%. The correct classification rates for assigning ignitable liquid residues into ASTM E1618‐10 classes were generally in the range of 80–90%, with the exception of gasoline samples, which were incorrectly classified as aromatic solvents following evaporative weathering in fire debris.
Mental Capacity in Patients Involuntarily or Voluntarily Receiving Psychiatric Treatment for an Acute Mental Disorder
Authors: Mandarelli Gabriele , Tarsitani Lorenzo , Parmigiani Giovanna , Polselli Gian M. , Frati Paola , Biondi Massimo , Ferracuti Stefano
Published: February 2014

Despite the growing amount of data, much information is needed on patients' mental capacity to consent to psychiatric treatment for acute mental disorders. The present study was undertaken to compare differences in capacity to consent to psychiatric treatment in patients treated voluntarily and involuntarily and to investigate the role of psychiatric symptoms, competency, and cognitive functioning in determining voluntariness of hospital admission. Involuntary patients were interviewed with theMacArthurCompetenceAssessmentTool forTreatment (MacCAT‐T), the 24‐itemBriefPsychiatricRatingScale (BPRS), theMiniMentalStateExamination (MMSE) and theRaven'sColoredProgressiveMatrices, and their data were compared with those for age‐ and sex‐matched voluntary patients. Involuntary patients performed worse in allMacCAT‐Tsubscales. Capacity to consent to treatment varied widely within each group. Overall, involuntary patients have worse consent‐related mental capacity than those treated voluntarily, despite capacity to consent to treatment showing a significant variability in both groups.
Virtual Tool Mark Generation for Efficient Striation Analysis,
Authors: Ekstrand Laura , Zhang Song , Grieve Taylor , Chumbley L. Scott , Kreiser M. James
Published: February 2014

This study introduces a tool mark analysis approach based upon 3D scans of screwdriver tip and marked plate surfaces at the micrometer scale from an optical microscope. An open‐source 3D graphics software package is utilized to simulate the marking process as the projection of the tip's geometry in the direction of tool travel. The edge of this projection becomes a virtual tool mark that is compared to cross‐sections of the marked plate geometry using the statistical likelihood algorithm introduced by Chumbley et al. In a study with both sides of six screwdriver tips and 34 corresponding marks, the method distinguished known matches from known nonmatches with zero false‐positive matches and two false‐negative matches. For matches, it could predict the correct marking angle within ±5–10°. Individual comparisons could be made in seconds on a desktop computer, suggesting that the method could save time for examiners.
Death Due to Isolated Jejunal Tear Following Blunt Abdominal Trauma
Authors: Hugar Basappa S. , Yajaman Girishchandra P. , Kainoor Sunilkumar , Shetty Akshith Raj S.
Published: February 2014

Small intestinal injury following blunt abdominal trauma has been widely reported. Isolated jejunal tear which is caused by blunt abdominal trauma is rare and is most often seen in road traffic accidents. Here, we report a case of isolated jejunal tear in a 24‐year‐old male truck driver. He was admitted to a tertiary care hospital in a South Indian Metropolitan city with complaints of acute abdominal pain and tiredness following alleged accidental blunt trauma sustained to abdomen due to steering wheel impact. An isolated jejunal tear and adjacent mesenteric contusion and tear were missed by the treating physician even after preliminary investigations, and thus, the conservative management was instituted. The condition deteriorated gradually, and he succumbed to death. The autopsy revealed transverse tear of jejunum almost involving whole of its circumference on the antimesenteric border and peritonitis. Proper use of radio‐diagnostic techniques and timely undertaken explorative laparotomy would have saved the life.
Amplified fragment length polymorphism analysis to assess crossover interference and homozygosity in gynogenetic diploid Pacific abalone (Haliotis discus hannai)
Authors: Nie H.‐T. , Li Q. , Kong L.‐F.
Published: February 2014

Recombination analysis in gynogenetic diploids is a powerful tool for assessing the degree of inbreeding, investigating crossover events and understanding chiasma interference during meiosis. To estimate the marker–centromere recombination rate, the inheritance pattern of 654 amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) markers was examined in the 72‐h veliger larvae of two meiogynogenetic diploid families in the Pacific abalone (Haliotis discus hannai). The second‐division segregation frequency (y) of the AFLP loci ranged from 0.00 to 0.96, with 23.9% of loci showing y‐values higher than 0.67, evidencing the existence of interference. The average recombination frequency across the 654 AFLP loci was 0.45, allowing estimation of the fixation index of 0.55, indicating that meiotic gynogenesis could provide an effective means of rapid inbreeding in the Pacific abalone. The AFLP loci have a small proportion (4.4%) of y‐values greater than 0.90, suggesting that a relatively low or intermediate degree of chiasma interference occurred in the abalone chromosomes. The information obtained in this study will enhance our understanding of the abalone genome and will be useful for genetic studies in the species.
The microbiological and sustainability effects of washing anaesthesia breathing circuits less frequently
Authors: McGain F. , Algie C. M. , O'Toole J. , Lim T. F. , Mohebbi M. , Story D. A. , Leder K.
Published: February 2014

In the presence of single‐use airway filters, we quantified anaesthetic circuit aerobic microbial contamination rates when changed every 24 h, 48 h and 7 days. Microbiological samples were taken from the interior of 305 anaesthetic breathing circuits over a 15‐month period (3197 operations). There was no significant difference in the proportion of contaminated circuits when changed every 24 h (57/105 (54%, 95% CI 45–64%)) compared with 48 h (43/100 (43%, 95% CI 33–53%, p = 0.12)) and up to 7 days (46/100 (46%, 95% CI 36–56%, p = 0.26)). Median bacterial counts were not increased at 48 h or 7 days provided circuits were routinely emptied of condensate. Annual savings for one hospital (six operating theatres) were $AU 5219 (£3079, €3654, $US 4846) and a 57% decrease in anaesthesia circuit steriliser loads associated with a yearly saving of 2760 kWh of electricity and 48 000 l of water. Our findings suggest that extended circuit use from 24 h up to 7 days does not significantly increase bacterial contamination, and is associated with labour, energy, water and financial savings.
Interpreting the developmental dance of the megakaryocyte: a review of the cellular and molecular processes mediating platelet formation
Authors: Machlus Kellie R. , Thon Jonathan N. , Italiano Joseph E.
Published: February 2014

Platelets are essential for haemostasis, and thrombocytopenia (platelet counts <150 × 109/l) is a major clinical problem encountered across a number of conditions, including immune thrombocytopenic purpura, myelodysplastic syndromes, chemotherapy, aplastic anaemia, human immunodeficiency virus infection, complications during pregnancy and delivery, and surgery. Circulating blood platelets are specialized cells that function to prevent bleeding and minimize blood vessel injury. Platelets circulate in their quiescent form, and upon stimulation, activate to release their granule contents and spread on the affected tissue to create a physical barrier that prevents blood loss. The current model of platelet formation states that large progenitor cells in the bone marrow, called megakaryocytes, release platelets by extending long, branching processes, designated proplatelets, into sinusoidal blood vessels. This review will focus on different factors that impact megakaryocyte development, proplatelet formation and platelet release. It will highlight recent studies on thrombopoeitin‐dependent megakaryocyte maturation, endomitosis and granule formation, cytoskeletal contributions to proplatelet formation, the role of apoptosis, and terminal platelet formation and release.
Thrombopoietin from beginning to end
Authors: Hitchcock Ian S. , Kaushansky Kenneth
Published: February 2014

In the two decades since its cloning, thrombopoietin (TPO) has emerged not only as a critical haematopoietic cytokine, but also serves as a great example of bench‐to‐bedside research. Thrombopoietin, produced by the liver, is the primary regulator of megakaryocyte progenitor expansion and differentiation. Additionally, as TPO is vital for the maintenance of haematopoietic stem cells, it can truly be described as a pan‐haematopoietic cytokine. Since recombinant TPO became available, the molecular mechanisms of TPO function have been the subject of extensive research. Via its receptor, c‐Mpl (also termed MPL), TPO activates a wide array of downstream signalling pathways, promoting cellular survival and proliferation. Due to its central, non‐redundant role in haematopoiesis, alterations of both the hormone and its receptor contribute to human disease; congenital and acquired states of thrombocytosis and thrombocytopenia and aplastic anaemia as a result from dysregulated TPO expression or functional alterations of c‐Mpl. With TPO mimetics now in clinical use, the story of this haematopoietic cytokine represents a great success for biomedical research.
Movement Patterns of a Native and Non‐native Frugivore in Hawaii and Implications for Seed Dispersal
Authors: Wu Joanna X. , Delparte Donna M. , Hart Patrick J.
Published: February 2014

Avian frugivores historically played important roles as seed dispersers across the Hawaiian Islands, but presently, the ‘Ōma‘o (Myadestes obscurus) is the only extant native frugivore in the wild on the Island of Hawaii. During recent decades, the introduced generalist Japanese White‐eye (Zosterops japonicus) has become the most common bird in Hawaii. The movements of avian frugivores largely dictate how far seeds get dispersed and into what kinds of microhabitats. This study compares the movement patterns and diet of the ‘Ōma‘o to the Japanese White‐eye to understand how a native differs from a non‐native frugivore in the type and distances of seeds dispersed. Radiotelemetry was conducted on nine ‘Ōma‘o and nine Japanese White‐eyes in a system of natural forest fragments (kīpuka) created by lava flows. Japanese White‐eyes disperse seeds approximately twice as far as ‘Ōma‘o; during the time of gut passage, ‘Ōma‘o move a mean distance of 98.1 m, and Japanese White‐eyes move 170.1–194.8 m. However, the ‘Ōma‘o disperses the seeds of at least seven different native fruit species compared with two dispersed by Japanese White‐eyes. Japanese White‐eyes were found to disperse seeds smaller than 1.5 mm, whereas the ‘Ōma‘o dispersed seeds up to 6 mm in diameter. Despite their ecological differences, both birds distribute certain seeds within and among kīpuka and likely facilitate primary succession of fruiting plants in the young lava matrix. However, this study suggests that if the ‘Ōma‘o were extirpated, a smaller‐bodied generalist cannot entirely substitute for the ecological role played by the native frugivore.
The Contribution of Symbolic Skills to the Development of an Explicit Theory of Mind
Authors: Lillard Angeline S. , Kavanaugh Robert D.
Published: February 2014

Theorists have speculated about the symbolic underpinnings of theory of mind (ToM), but no study has examined them across the main developmental span of ToM. Here, the onset of symbolic understandings in three domains (pretend play, language, and understanding representations) and ToM was examined. Fifty‐eight children were tested on batteries of tasks four times from ages 2.5 to 5 years. Some significant interrelations among variables were seen at each age level. Canonical correlation analysis found that a subset of the symbolic variables was significantly related to ToM at ages 4 and 5, providing the best evidence to date that ToM is undergirded by a symbolic element that also supports language, pretend play, and representational understanding.
Novel hybrid drilling protocol: evaluation for the implant healing – thermal changes, crestal bone loss, and bone‐to‐implant contact
Authors: Calvo‐Guirado José Luis , Delgado‐Peña Jorge , Maté‐Sánchez Jose E. , Mareque Bueno Javier , Delgado‐Ruiz Rafael Arcesio , Romanos Georgios E.
Published: February 2014

Objectives

To evaluate a new hybrid drilling protocol, by the analysis of thermal changes in vitro, and their effects in the crestal bone loss and bone‐to‐implant contact in vivo.

Materials and Methods

Temperature changes during simulated osteotomies with a hybrid drilling technique (biologic plus simplified) (test) versus an incremental drilling technique (control) were investigated. One hundred and twenty random osteotomies were performed (60 by group) in pig ribs up to 3.75‐mm‐diameter drill to a depth of 10 mm. Thermal changes and time were recorded by paired thermocouples. In a parallel experiment, bilateral mandibular premolars P2, P3, P4, and first molar M1 were extracted from six dogs. After 2‐month healing, implant sites were randomly prepared using either of the drilling techniques. Forty eight implants of 3.75 mm diameter and 10 mm length were inserted. The dogs were euthanized at 30 and 90 days, and crestal bone loss (CBL) and bone‐to‐implant contact (BIC) were evaluated.

Results

The control group showed maximum temperatures of 35.3°C ± 1.8°C, ΔT of 10.4°C, and a mean time of 100 s/procedure; meanwhile, the test group showed maximum temperatures of 36.7°C ± 1.2°C, ΔT of 8.1°C, and a mean time of 240 s/procedure. After 30 days, CBL values for both groups (test: 1.168 ± 0.194 mm; control: 1.181 ± 0.113 mm) and BIC values (test: 43 ± 2.8%; control: 45 ± 1.3%) were similar, without significant differences (P > 0.05). After 90 days, CBL (test: 1.173 ± 0.187 mm; control: 1.205 ± 0.122 mm) and BIC (test: 64 ± 3.3%; control: 64 ± 2.4%) values were similar, without significant differences (P > 0.05). The BIC values were increased at 90 days in both groups compared with the 30‐day period (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this study, the new hybrid protocol for the preparation of the implant bed without irrigation, increase the temperature similarly to the incremental conventional protocol, and requires twice the time for the completion of the drilling procedure in vitro. Crestal bone loss and bone‐to‐implant contact in the hybrid drilling protocol are comparable with the conventional drilling protocol and do not affect the osseointegration process in vivo.