bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CUTE‐CV: A Prospective Study of Enhanced Left Atrial Appendage Visualization with Microbubble Contrast Agent Use during Transesophageal Echocardiography Guided Cardioversion
Authors: Bernier Mathieu , Abdelmoneim Sahar S. , Stuart Moir W. , Eifert Rain Susan (Sue) J. , Chandrasekaran Krishnaswamy , Ammash Naser M. , Mulvagh Sharon L.
Published: May 2013

Objectives

The aim of our study was to demonstrate that the use of contrast microbubbles during transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) guided cardioversion will improve interpretation of the TEE images.

Background

TEE‐guided cardioversion of atrial flutter or fibrillation (AF) is a safe and proven method to restore sinus rhythm. However, artifacts and dense spontaneous echo contrast in the left atrial appendage (LAA) can sometimes decrease the level of confidence in excluding the presence of thrombus.

Methods

One hundred patients referred for TEE‐guided cardioversion were prospectively enrolled and microbubble contrast agent (DEFINITY) was administered after the clinical decision had been made regarding suitability for cardioversion. Noncontrast and contrast images were compared during subsequent offline analysis.

Results

LAA dimensions and contractility indices were higher, artifacts were significantly differentiated, previously unsuspected LAA filling defects were identified, and the level of confidence in excluding thrombus was enhanced in the contrast images when compared to the noncontrast images. After 4 months follow‐up, 1 stroke‐associated death occurred in a patient who had LAA thrombus recognized only by contrast. Left atrial appendage visualization is enhanced with microbubble contrast agent use during transesophageal echocardiography guided cardioversion and is useful in identification of intracardiac thrombus.
Diagnosis of Double‐Chambered Left Ventricle Using Advanced Cardiovascular Imaging
Authors: Mordi Ify , Carrick David , Tzemos Nikolaos
Published: May 2013

Double‐chambered ventricle is a rare congenital cardiac abnormality, most commonly affecting the right ventricle. Here, we report a case of an incidental diagnosis of this condition affecting the left ventricle (LV), which is found much less frequently, and the use of contrast echocardiography in its evaluation. The addition of computed tomography (CT), highlighting the blood supply of both chambers by the left anterior descending (LAD) artery allowed us to confirm the diagnosis.
Role of the N‐terminal signal peptide in the membrane insertion of Aquifex aeolicus F1F0ATP synthase c‐subunit
Authors: Zhang Chunli , Marcia Marco , Langer Julian D. , Peng Guohong , Michel Hartmut
Published: May 2013

Rotary ATPases are membrane protein complexes that couple ATP hydrolysis to ion translocation across the membrane. Overall, they are evolutionarily well conserved, but the N‐terminal segments of their rotary subunits (c‐subunits) possess different lengths and levels of hydrophobicity across species. By analyzing the N‐terminal variability, we distinguish four phylogenetic groups of c‐subunits (groups 1–4). We characterize a member of group 2, the c‐subunit from Aquifex aeolicus F1F0 ATP synthase, both in native cells and in a heterologous expression system. We demonstrate that its N‐terminal segment forms a signal peptide with signal recognition particle (SRP) recognition features and is obligatorily required for membrane insertion. Based on our study and on previous characterizations of c‐subunits from other organisms, we propose that c‐subunits follow different membrane insertion pathways.
Fatigue tests on steel plates with longitudinal weld attachment strengthened by ultra high modulus carbon fibre reinforced polymer plate
Authors: Wu C. , Zhao X. L. , Al‐Mahaidi R. , Emdad M. R. , Duan W. H.
Published: May 2013

Welded steel connections of infrastructures are susceptible to fatigue failure. Advanced carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) has been demonstrated promising for fatigue strengthening of steel structures. Limited research was conducted on CFRP strengthening of welded connections. This paper focuses on the application of ultra high modulus (UHM) CFRP plates with a modulus of 460 GPa to strengthen steel plates with longitudinal fillet weld attachment using five CFRP strengthening configurations. A series of fatigue tension tests were carried out with constant amplitude fatigue loading. Beach marking technique was adopted to record the crack propagation process. Effects of CFRP bond length, bond width and bond locations on fatigue performance of welded steel joints were investigated. The experimental results showed that UHM CFRP plates could generally increase the fatigue life of the welded steel joints. It seems better to apply CFRP on the welding side of the specimen to achieve longer fatigue life. Then, the effects of weld and weld attachment on the CFRP strengthening efficiency was further studied by comparing experimental results of non‐welded steel plates with single side UHM CFRP plate strengthening. Finally, the classification method was adopted to assess the strengthening efficiency of the UHM CFRP plate to the steel plates with longitudinal weld attachment.
A statistical evaluation of micro‐crack initiation in thermally cut structural elements
Authors: Glodež S. , Šori M. , Kramberger J.
Published: May 2013

The paper presents a numerical modelling of fatigue crack initiation in thermally cut structural elements by using improved Tanaka–Mura crack nucleation model. The main goal of the study is to analyse the influence of different grain orientations generated with Voronoi tessellation on the crack initiation period. The numerical modelling of the crack initiation period is performed on the test specimens made of high strength steel with martensitic microstructure. Because the specimens are assumed to be thermally cut without any additional treatment, surface roughness is taken into account in the numerical simulation. Several computational analyses with different grain orientations are performed on the each stress level. Therefore, the stress cycles interval [N1, N2] in which the crack is expected to be initiated with the probability P(N) is determined by using statistical analyses of obtained computational results. Experimental testing is also performed on the uniaxial test machine by stress ratio R = 0.1.
Spring and autumn animal treading effects on pre‐grazing herbage mass and tiller density on two contrasting pasture types in Ireland
Authors: Tuñon G. , O'Donovan M. , Lopez Villalobos N. , Hennessy D. , Kemp P. , Kennedy E.
Published: May 2013

A perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.)‐dominated sward on a well‐drained soil (Experiment 1) and a creeping bent (Agrostis stolonifera L.)‐dominated sward on a poorly drained soil (Experiment 2) were subjected to four treading treatments: control (C, no damage), light damage (L), moderate damage (M) or severe damage (S) to quantify the effects on herbage dry‐matter (DM) production and tiller density. In Experiment 1, treading damage was imposed in spring. In Experiment 2, one‐third of the site was damaged in autumn, one‐third in spring and one‐third in both spring and autumn. Both sites were rotationally grazed after treading treatments. Pre‐grazing herbage mass was measured eight times in Experiment 1 and seven times in Experiment 2 on each plot, and tiller density was assessed four times in each experiment. In Experiment 1, pre‐grazing herbage mass was reduced by 30% in S plots at the first harvest after damage, but cumulative pre‐grazing herbage DM production was not different between treatments (12·7 t DM ha−1). In Experiment 2, annual cumulative pre‐grazing herbage mass was reduced by between 14 and 49%, depending on intensity of treading damage event and season when damage occurred. Tiller density was not affected by treatment in either experiment. A perennial ryegrass‐dominated sward on a well‐drained soil was resilient to heavy treading damage. A creeping bent‐dominated sward on poorly drained soil requires a more careful grazing management approach to avoid major losses in cumulative pre‐grazing herbage mass production during wet weather grazing events.
Berseem clover seeding rate and harvest management effects on forage yields and nutrient uptake in a swine effluent spray field
Authors: Read J. J. , McLaughlin M. R. , Jenkins J. N. , Fairbrother T. E.
Published: May 2013

A 3‐year study was conducted on a Prentiss sandy loam near Pheba, Mississippi to determine optimum berseem clover (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) seeding rate (SR) for dry‐matter (DM) yield and nutrient uptake in an annual clover–perennial bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon L. (Pers.)] sward, fertilized in April to October with swine effluent. Seed of annual berseem clover (cv. ‘Bigbee’) was drill‐seeded in October at 4, 8, 12, 16, 20 and 24 kg ha−1 and harvested either twice in April and May (spring) or once in May. Yield of clover harvested twice was less than that harvested once (5410 vs. 7566 kg ha−1), but N and P uptake were greater in the double‐harvest regime. Annual clover responses to SR were described by quadratic trends. Pooled across years and harvest regimes, the optimum SR for DM yield was 16·5 kg ha−1 and for P, Cu and Zn uptake, it was 15·7, 14·8 and 16·0 kg ha−1, respectively. Bermudagrass DM yield decreased linearly as SR increased by approximately 6·3 and 66·7 kg DM kg seed−1 in double‐ and single‐harvest regimes, respectively. For clover–bermudagrass, the optimum SR for DM yield was 14·0 kg ha−1, and for P, Cu, and Zn uptake, it was 15·1, 14·6 and 15·3 kg ha−1, respectively. A SR of 14·0–14·9 kg ha−1 and a first harvest of clover in April appeared to optimize hay yields and uptake of nutrients in clover–bermudagrass. Because bermudagrass N requirement is usually met by swine effluent irrigations, overseeding annual clover would chiefly satisfy producer needs for early forage production.
Griffith Cracks at the Nanoscale
Authors: Wiederhorn Sheldon M. , Fett Theo , Guin Jean‐Pierre , Ciccotti Matteo
Published: May 2013

When Griffith presented his famous theory of crack stability in elastic materials in the early twentieth century, he was unable to provide much detail on the structure of cracks at the nanometer level of resolution. Now, almost 100 years later, techniques such as transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscope, nuclear reaction analysis, and nuclear reflection are available to achieve this level of resolution. Here, we review the kind of data obtained using these techniques and the implications of the data vis‐á‐vis cracks in silicate glasses. Measurements by atomic force microscopy provide information on the size of the nonlinear zone at crack tips in glass, on environmental conditions at crack tips, and on the possibility of cavity formation as a mechanism of crack growth. Examination by nuclear reaction analysis and neutron reflection of fresh fracture surfaces formed in water has yielded information on water penetration through the glass surrounding the crack tip, to a resolution of 3–5 nm. Improvement of measurement techniques in the coming years should enable us to study crack tips in glasses to even higher levels of resolution and to answer more detailed questions concerning the level of stress and the size of the nonlinear zone at the crack tip.
Phase Diagram and Properties of High TC/TR−TPb(In1/2Nb1/2) O3–Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3–PbTiO3 Ferroelectric Ceramics
Authors: Li Tao , Li Xiuzhi , Guo Dong , Wang Zujian , Liu Ying , He Chao , Chu Tao , Ai Liaodong , Pang Dongfang , Long Xifa
Published: May 2013

A ternary ferroelectric ceramic system, (1−x−y)Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3–xPb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3–yPbTiO3 (PIN–PZN–PT, x = 0.21, 0.27, 0.36, 0.42), was prepared using a two‐step precursor method. The phase structure, dielectric, piezoelectric, and ferroelectric properties of the ternary ceramics were systematically investigated. A morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) was identified by X‐ray diffraction. The optimum piezoelectric and electromechanical properties were achieved for a composition close to MPB (0.5PIN–0.21PZN–0.29PT), where the piezoelectric coefficient d33, planar electromechanical coupling factor kp, and remnant polarization Pr are 660 pC/N,72%, and 45 μC/cm2, respectively. The Curie temperature TC and rhombohedral to tetragonal phase transition temperature TR−T were also derived by temperature dependence of dielectric measurements. The strongly “bended” MPB in the PIN–PT system was found to be “flattened” after addition of PZN in the PIN–PT–PZN system. The results demonstrate a possibility of growing ferroelectric single crystals with high electromechanical properties and expanded range of application temperature.
Thermoelectric Efficiency of Reduced SrTiO3 Ceramics Modified with La and Nb
Authors: Teranishi Takashi , Ishikawa Yusuke , Hayashi Hidetaka , Kishimoto Akira , Katayama Misaki , Inada Yasuhiro
Published: May 2013

Ceramics of LaxSr1−xNbyTi1−yO3 (LSNT) were synthesized under various reducing atmospheres. Covering the specimens with graphite carbon felt under an Ar‐gas flow during sintering drastically enhanced the electrical conductivity, σ. Ti K‐edge absorption spectra indicated the presence of Ti3+ for heavily reduced specimens. The increase in conductivity was attributed to the 3d band of Ti3+. The maximum value for the figure of merit, ZT, was obtained for strontium titanate ceramics modified with both 5 mol% La and 5 mol% Nb, namely 5/5‐LSNT, exhibiting a ZT value of ~0.221 at 473 K. This high ZT value was almost 1.5 × larger than that of the conventional 10 mol% La‐doped sample, 10/0‐LSNT (ZT~0.144), and was mainly attributed to the larger Seebeck coefficient of the material.
Thermal Expansion of Rare‐Earth Pyrosilicates
Authors: Fernández‐Carrión Alberto J. , Allix Mathieu , Becerro Ana I.
Published: May 2013

The use of RE2Si2O7 materials as environmental barrier coatings (EBCs) and in the sintering process of advanced ceramics demands a precise knowledge of the coefficient of thermal expansion of the RE2Si2O7. High‐temperature X‐ray diffraction (HTXRD) patterns were collected on different RE2Si2O7 polymorphs, namely A, G, α, β, γ, and δ, to determine the changes in unit cell dimensions. RE2Si2O7 compounds belonging to the same polymorph showed, qualitatively, very similar unit cell parameters behavior with temperature, whereas the different polymorphs of a given RE2Si2O7 compound exhibited markedly different thermal expansion evolution. The isotropy of thermal expansion was demonstrated for the A‐RE2Si2O7 polymorph while the rest of polymorphs exhibited an anisotropic unit cell expansion with the biggest expansion directed along the REOx polyhedral chains. The apparent bulk thermal expansion coeficcients (ABCTE) were calculated from the unit cell volume expansion for each RE2Si2O7 compound. All compounds belonging to the same polymorph exhibited similar ABCTE values. However, the ABCTE values differ significantly from one polymorph to the other. The highest ABCTE values correspond to A‐RE2Si2O7 compounds, with an average of 12.1 × 10−6 K−1, whereas the lowest values are those of β‐ and γ‐RE2Si2O7, which showed average ABCTE values of ~4.0 × 10−6 K−1.
No evidence for behavioural adaptations to nematode parasitism by the flyDrosophila putrida
Authors: Debban C. L. , Dyer K. A.
Published: May 2013

Behavioural adaptations of hosts to their parasites form an important component of the evolutionary dynamics of host–parasite interactions. As mushroom‐feedingDrosophilacan tolerate deadly mycotoxins, but theirHowardulanematode parasites cannot, we asked how consuming the potent mycotoxin α‐amanitin has affected this host–parasite interaction. We used the flyD. putridaand its parasiteH. aoronymphium, which is both highly virulent and at high prevalence in some populations, and investigated whether adult flies utilize food with toxin to prevent infection in the next generation or consume the toxin to reduce the virulence of an already established infection. First, we found that uninfected females did not prefer to eat or lay their eggs on toxic food, indicating that selection has not acted on the flies to alter their behaviour towards α‐amanitin to prevent their offspring from becoming infected byHowardula. However, we cannot rule out that flies use an alternate cue that is associated with toxin presence in the wild. Second, we found that infected females did not prefer to eat food with α‐amanitin and that consuming α‐amanitin did not cure or reduce the virulence of the parasite in adults that were already infected. In sum, our results indicate there are no direct effects of eating α‐amanitin on this host–parasite interaction, and we suggest that toxin tolerance is more likely maintained by selection due to competition for resources than as a mechanism to avoid parasite infection or to reduce the virulence of infection.
Getting a grip on the evolution of grasping in musteloid carnivorans: a three‐dimensional analysis of forelimb shape
Authors: Fabre A.‐C. , Cornette R. , Slater G. , Argot C. , Peigné S. , Goswami A. , Pouydebat E.
Published: May 2013

The ability to grasp and manipulate is often considered a hallmark of hominins and associated with the evolution of their bipedal locomotion and tool use. Yet, many other mammals use their forelimbs to grasp and manipulate objects. Previous investigations have suggested that grasping may be derived from digging behaviour, arboreal locomotion or hunting behaviour. Here, we test the arboreal origin of grasping and investigate whether an arboreal lifestyle could confer a greater grasping ability in musteloid carnivorans. Moreover, we investigate the morphological adaptations related to grasping and the differences between arboreal species with different grasping abilities. We predict that if grasping is derived from an arboreal lifestyle, then the anatomical specializations of the forelimb for arboreality must be similar to those involved in grasping. We further predict that arboreal species with a well‐developed manipulation ability will have articulations that facilitate radio‐ulnar rotation. We use ancestral character state reconstructions of lifestyle and grasping ability to understand the evolution of both traits. Finally, we use a surface sliding semi‐landmark approach capable of quantifying the articulations in their full complexity. Our results largely confirm our predictions, demonstrating that musteloids with greater grasping skills differ markedly from others in the shape of their forelimb bones. These analyses further suggest that the evolution of an arboreal lifestyle likely preceded the development of enhanced grasping ability.
Lean red meat consumption and lipid profiles in adolescent girls
Authors: Bradlee M. L. , Singer M. R. , Moore L. L.
Published: May 2013

Background

Epidemiological studies of red meat consumption often fail to distinguish between leaner and fattier or processed cuts of meat. Red meat has also been frequently linked with less healthy diet patterns. Data exploring the health effects of lean red meat in younger individuals are scarce, particularly in the context of a healthy diet. The present study examined the effects of lean red meat in combination with higher intakes of fruit/nonstarchy vegetables on lipid profiles in older adolescent girls.

Methods

Data from 1461 girls who were followed for 10 years, starting at 9–10 years of age, in the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute Growth and Health Study were used. Diet was assessed using multiple sets of 3‐day records collected over eight examination cycles. Outcome measures included fasting levels of low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), non‐HDL‐C and triglycerides at age 18–20 years.

Results

After adjusting for age, race, socioeconomic status, height, activity level, hours of television per day, and intakes of whole grains and dairy foods using multivariable modelling, girls consuming ≥6 oz lean red meat per week combined with two or more servings of fruit/nonstarchy vegetables per day had LDL‐C levels approximately 6–7 mg dL−1 lower (P < 0.05) than girls with lower intakes of lean red meat and fruit/nonstarchy vegetables. In addition, girls with higher intakes of both were 33% less likely (odds ratio = 0.67, 95% confidence interval = 0.48–0.94) to have an LDL‐C ≥110 mg dL−1 and 41% less likely (odds ratio = 0.59, 95% confidence interval = 0.42–0.83) to have an elevated LDL : HDL ratio (≥2.2) at the end of adolescence.

Conclusions

These analyses suggest that lean red meat may be included in a healthy adolescent diet without unfavourable effects on lipid values.
Reducing the cost of dietary assessment: Self‐Completed Recall and Analysis of Nutrition for use with children (SCRAN24)
Authors: Foster E. , Hawkins A. , Delve J. , Adamson A. J.
Published: May 2013

Background

Self‐Completed Recall and Analysis of Nutrition (scran24) is a prototype computerised 24‐h recall system for use with 11–16 year olds. It is based on the Multiple Pass 24‐h Recall method and includes prompts and checks throughout the system for forgotten food items.

Methods and results

The development of scran24 was informed by an extensive literature review, a series of focus groups and usability testing. The first stage of the recall is a quick list where the user is asked to input all the foods and drinks they remember consuming the previous day. The quick list is structured into meals and snacks. Once the quick list is complete, additional information is collected on each food to determine food type and to obtain an estimate of portion size using digital images of food. Foods are located within the system using a free text search, which is linked to the information entered into the quick list. A time is assigned to each eating occasion using drag and drop onto a timeline. The system prompts the user if no foods or drinks have been consumed within a 3‐h time frame, or if fewer than three drinks have been consumed throughout the day. The food composition code and weight (g) of all items selected are automatically allocated and stored. Nutritional information can be generated automatically via the scran24 companion Access database.

Conclusions

scran24 was very well received by young people and was relatively quick to complete. The accuracy and precision was close to that of similar computer‐based systems currently used in dietary studies.
Year 7 dietary intake: a comparison of two schools with middle–high socio‐economic status
Authors: Greatwood H. C. , Daly‐Smith A. , McGregor S. , McKenna J.
Published: May 2013

Background

With an established, yet avoidable, link between dietary intake and poor health, the nutritional habits of adolescents remains a public health concern. Previous studies report an inverse relationship between dietary intake and socio‐economic status (SES), although few studies have considered the influence of the SES gradient. The present study compared the nutritional profiles of neighbouring schools with pupils from middle to high economic backgrounds.

Methods

One hundred and ninety pupils from a high SES school (HSESS) and 159 pupils from a middle SES school (MSESS) (aged 11–12 years) completed a 63‐item validated food frequency questionnaire. Pupils rated their diet quality and this was compared with a composite Healthy Eating Index (HEI).

Results

Children attending MSESS consumed significantly higher intakes of energy (P < 0.001), carbohydrate (P = 0.001), fat (P < 0.001) and protein (P = 0.001). As a percentage of energy contribution, pupils in both schools consumed excess saturated fat (HSESS, +5% boys, +4% girls; MSESS, +4% both boys and girls) and sugar (HSESS, +9% boys, +11% girls; MSESS, +10% boys, +11% girls). When HEI was compared with self‐report diet quality, 96% HSESS pupils and 94% MSESS pupils over‐rated the quality of their diet.

Conclusions

The present study identified that, although pupils from MSESS consume a significantly higher intake of energy and macronutrient compared to a nearby HSESS, the percentage of energy contribution of saturated fat and sugar is above government recommendations for pupils from both schools. Additionally, the majority of pupils from both schools substantially over‐rated their diet quality compared to a HEI.
Antisocial Behavior Trajectories and Social Victimization Within and Between School Years in Early Adolescence
Authors: Light John M. , Rusby Julie C. , Nies Kimberley M. , Snijders Tom A. B.
Published: May 2013

Antisocial behavior typically increases during early adolescence, but the possibility of seasonal variation has not been examined. In this study, trajectories of antisocial behavior were estimated for early adolescent boys and girls. Data were obtained from a 3‐year longitudinal study of 11 middle schools in the western United States (n = 5,742), with assessments completed four times per academic year. Antisocial behavior increased steadily throughout 6th grade, but beginning in 7th grade for boys and 8th grade for girls it declined during the school year. Significant increases between Grades 6–7 and 7–8 were found for both genders. Trajectories varied by contextual and individual‐level social victimization and gender. Implications for theoretical development and future studies are discussed.
Relationships between heart rate and age, bodyweight and breed in 10,849 dogs
Authors: Hezzell M. J. , Humm K. , Dennis S. G. , Agee L. , Boswood A.
Published: May 2013

Objectives

To evaluate relationships between heart rate and clinical variables in healthy dogs and dogs examined at a referral hospital.

Methods

Clinical data were extracted from the electronic patient records of a first opinion group (5000 healthy dogs) and a referral hospital (5849 dogs). Univariable and multi‐variable general linear models were used to assess associations between heart rate and clinical characteristics. Separate multi‐variable models were constructed for first opinion and referral populations.

Results

In healthy dogs, heart rate was negatively associated with bodyweight (P<0·001) but was higher in Chihuahuas. The mean difference in heart rate between a 5 and 55 kg dog was 10·5 beats per minute. In dogs presenting to a referral hospital, heart rate was negatively associated with bodyweight (P<0·001) and the following breeds; border collie, golden retriever, Labrador retriever, springer spaniel and West Highland white terrier and positively associated with age, admitting service (emergency and critical care, emergency first opinion and cardiology) and the following breeds; Cavalier King Charles spaniel, Staffordshire bull terrier and Yorkshire terrier.

Clinical Significance

Bodyweight, age, breed and disease status all influence heart rate in dogs, although these factors account for a relatively small proportion of the overall variability in heart rate.
Characterization of the LTR retrotransposon repertoire of a plant clade of six diploid and one tetraploid species
Authors: Piednoël Mathieu , Carrete‐Vega Greta , Renner Susanne S.
Published: May 2013

Comparisons of closely related species are needed to understand the fine‐scale dynamics of retrotransposon evolution in flowering plants. Towards this goal, we classified the long terminal repeat (LTR) retrotransposons from six diploid and one tetraploid species of Orobanchaceae. The study species are the autotrophic, non‐parasitic Lindenbergia philippensis (as an out‐group) and six closely related holoparasitic species of Orobanche [O. crenata, O. cumana, O. gracilis (tetraploid) and O. pancicii] and Phelipanche (P. lavandulacea and P. ramosa). All major plant LTR retrotransposon clades could be identified, and appear to be inherited from a common ancestor. Species of Orobanche, but not Phelipanche, are enriched in Ty3/Gypsy retrotransposons due to a diversification of elements, especially chromoviruses. This is particularly striking in O. gracilis, where tetraploidization seems to have contributed to the Ty3/Gypsy enrichment and led to the emergence of seven large species‐specific families of chromoviruses. The preferential insertion of chromoviruses in heterochromatin via their chromodomains might have favored their diversification and enrichment. Our phylogenetic analyses of LTR retrotransposons from Orobanchaceae also revealed that the Bianca clade of Ty1/Copia and the SMART‐related elements are much more widely distributed among angiosperms than previously known.
The catalytic domain CysPc of the DEK1 calpain is functionally conserved in land plants
Authors: Liang Zhe , Demko Viktor , Wilson Robert C. , Johnson Kenneth A. , Ahmad Rafi , Perroud Pierre‐François , Quatrano Ralph , Zhao Sen , Shalchian‐Tabrizi Kamran , Otegui Marisa S. , Olsen Odd‐Arne , Johansen Wenche
Published: May 2013

DEK1, the single calpain of land plants, is a member of the ancient membrane bound TML–CysPc–C2L calpain family that dates back 1.5 billion years. Here we show that the CysPc–C2L domains of land plant calpains form a separate sub‐clade in the DEK1 clade of the phylogenetic tree of plants. The charophycean alga Mesostigma viride DEK1‐like gene is clearly divergent from those in land plants, suggesting that a major evolutionary shift in DEK1 occurred during the transition to land plants. Based on genetic complementation of the Arabidopsis thaliana dek1‐3 mutant using CysPc–C2L domains of various origins, we show that these two domains have been functionally conserved within land plants for at least 450 million years. This conclusion is based on the observation that the CysPc–C2L domains of DEK1 from the moss Physcomitrella patens complements the A. thaliana dek1‐3 mutant phenotype. In contrast, neither the CysPc–C2L domains from M. viride nor chimeric animal–plant calpains complement this mutant. Co‐evolution analysis identified differences in the interactions between the CysPc–C2L residues of DEK1 and classical calpains, supporting the view that the two enzymes are regulated by fundamentally different mechanisms. Using the A. thaliana dek1‐3 complementation assay, we show that four conserved amino acid residues of two Ca2+‐binding sites in the CysPc domain of classical calpains are conserved in land plants and functionally essential in A. thaliana DEK1.
BLH1 and KNAT3 modulate ABA responses during germination and early seedling development in Arabidopsis
Authors: Kim Dachan , Cho Young‐hyun , Ryu Hojin , Kim Yoonhee , Kim Tae‐Houn , Hwang Ildoo
Published: May 2013

The signal transduction pathway governed by the phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA) regulates not only abiotic stress responses but also early developmental programs such as seed dormancy, germination and seedling growth in response to environmental signals. Optimal plant growth and development depend on the integration of environmental stimuli and intrinsic developmental programs. Here, we show that the homeodomain transcription factors BLH1 and KNAT3, previously implicated in embryo sac development, have additional functions in ABA‐mediated seed dormancy and early seedling development. The ABA‐dependent induction of BLH1 and KNAT3 expression required the presence of functional PYR/PYL/RCAR receptors. The blh1 and knat3 mutants were less sensitive than the wild‐type to ABA or salinity exposure during seed germination and early seedling development. In contrast, BLH1 over‐expressing lines were hypersensitive to ABA and salinity, and exhibited increased expression of ABA‐responsive genes, such as ABI3 and ABI5. BLH1 interacted with KNAT3 and enhanced the retention of KNAT3 in the nucleus. BLH1 and KNAT3 synergistically increased the ABA responses by binding to and subsequently activating the ABI3 promoter. Taken together, we propose that BLH1 and KNAT3 together modulate seed germination and early seedling development by directly regulating ABI3 expression.
Arabidopsis FRS4/CPD25 and FHY3/CPD45 work cooperatively to promote the expression of the chloroplast division gene ARC5 and chloroplast division
Authors: Gao Yuefang , Liu Han , An Chuanjing , Shi Yuhong , Liu Xia , Yuan Wanqiong , Zhang Bing , Yang Jin , Yu Caixia , Gao Hongbo
Published: May 2013

ARC5 is a dynamin‐related GTPase essential for the division of chloroplasts in plants. The arc5 mutant frequently exhibits enlarged, dumbbell‐shaped chloroplasts, indicating a role for ARC5 in the constriction of the chloroplast division site. In a screen for chloroplast division mutants with a phenotype similar to arc5, two mutants, cpd25 and cpd45, were obtained. CPD45 was identified as being the same gene as FHY3, a key regulator of far‐red light signaling recently shown to be involved in the regulation of ARC5. CPD25 was previously named FRS4 and is homologous to FHY3. We found that CPD25 is also required for the expression of ARC5, suggesting that its function is not redundant to that of FHY3. Moreover, cpd25 does not have the far‐red light‐sensing defect present in fhy3 and far1. Both FRS4/CPD25 and FHY3/CPD45 could bind to the FBS‐like ‘ACGCGC’ motifs in the promoter region of ARC5, and the binding efficiency of FRS4/CPD25 was much higher than that of FHY3/CPD45. Unlike FHY3/CPD45, FRS4/CPD25 has no ARC5 activation activity. Our data suggest that FRS4/CPD25 and FHY3/CPD45 function as a heterodimer that cooperatively activates ARC5, that FRS4/CPD25 plays the major role in promoter binding, and that FHY3/CPD45 is largely responsible for the gene activation. This study not only provides insight into the mechanisms underlying the regulation of chloroplast division in higher plants, but also suggests a model that shows how members of a transcription factor family can evolve to have different DNA‐binding and gene activation features.
Worldwide policies on haemochromatosis and blood donation: a survey among blood services
Authors: Pauwels N. S. , De Buck E. , Compernolle V. , Vandekerckhove P.
Published: May 2013

Background and Objectives

Haemochromatosis (HC) is a disorder of iron metabolism, requiring frequent phlebotomy to normalize high serum iron levels. There is currently no consensus relating to the eligibility of these patients to donate blood for transfusion. To gain a better understanding of the policies worldwide, a survey amongst blood services was performed.

Materials and Methods

A web‐based questionnaire was developed and distributed among 44 blood services in 41 countries to identify the different policies relating to patients with HC and blood donation.

Results

Respondents from 35 blood services (80%) of 33 countries completed the questionnaire. In 24 blood services among them (69%), individuals with genetic susceptibility for HC and/or patients with HC are accepted as blood donors. In approximately one‐third of these blood centres (33%), genetic carriers/patients are allowed to donate blood more frequently than regular donors. Prescription from/approval by the patient's treating physician and/or a donor physician is required in the majority of the blood services (87%). Similar policies were identified in a few countries; however, in general, the policies regarding blood donation from patients with HC remain widely variable.

Conclusion

The results of our survey demonstrate large differences in the blood donation policies regarding carriers/patients with HC illustrating the need for uniform evidence‐based and cost‐effective policies which could benefit both HC patients and the blood supply around the world.
External quality assessment of human neutrophil antigen (HNA)‐specific antibody detection and HNA genotyping from 2000 to 2012
Authors: Lucas G. , Porcelijn L. , Fung Y. L. , Green F. , Reil A. , Hopkins M. , Schuller R. , Green A. , de Haas M. , Bux J.
Published: May 2013

Since 2000, Quality Assurance (QA) exercises for the detection and identification of granulocyte antibodies and DNA typing for human neutrophil antigens (HNA) have been distributed within the International Granulocyte Immunobiology Workshops, which are linked to International Society of Blood Transfusion. The exercises were standardised at the outset to enable laboratory performance to be monitored. Between 2000 and 2012, nine exercises were distributed to 20 laboratories. Overall, 45 examples of 42 unique samples containing defined granulocyte reactive antibodies were distributed for serological analysis together with 20 samples for HNA genotyping. The level of satisfactory serological performance was initially set at 50% and later increased to 70%, while the ‘cut‐off’ for HNA genotyping was set at 100% after 2008. Failure to achieve the minimum score in the QA exercises in consecutive years resulted in temporary exclusion. In 2000, the 15 participating laboratories had a mean score of 56.1% for serological analysis and 13 laboratories attempted HNA‐1a and ‐1b genotyping, while 11 attempted HNA‐1c typing. Steady improvements in proficiency for serological testing and HNA typing occurred in subsequent exercises. In 2012, the mean score for serology was 88.5% and 12/13 laboratories scored 100% for HNA‐1a, ‐1b, ‐1c, ‐3a, ‐3b, ‐4a, ‐4bw, ‐5a and ‐5bw genotyping. These QA exercises have provided an invaluable tool to monitor and improve the standard of granulocyte immunology investigations for participating laboratories, thereby enhancing performance for both clinical investigations and donor screening programmes to reduce the incidence of TRALI.
Proteomic analysis of the supernatant of red blood cell units: the effects of storage and leucoreduction
Authors: Dzieciatkowska M. , Silliman C. C. , Moore E. E. , Kelher M. R. , Banerjee A. , Land K. J. , Ellison M. , West F. B. , Ambruso D. R. , Hansen K. C.
Published: May 2013

Background

Red blood cell (RBC) transfusion is a life‐saving intervention for critically ill patients; however, it has been linked to increased morbidity and mortality. We hypothesize that a number of important proteins accumulate during routine storage of RBCs, which may explain some of the adverse effects seen in transfused patients.

Study Design

Five RBC units were drawn and divided (half prestorage leucoreduced (LR‐RBC) and half left as an unmodified control (RBC). The supernatant was separated on days 1 and 42 of storage and proteomic analyses completed with in‐gel tryptic digestion and nano‐liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

In RBC supernatants, 401 proteins were identified: 203 increased with storage, 114 decreased, and 84 were unchanged. In LR‐RBC supernatant, 231 proteins were identified: 84 increased with storage, 30 decreased, and 117 were unchanged. Prestorage leucoreduction removed many platelet‐ and leucocyte‐derived structural proteins; however, a number of intracellular proteins accumulated including peroxiredoxins (Prdx) 6 and latexin. The increases were confirmed by immunoblotting, including the T‐phosphorylation of Prdx‐6, indicating that it may be functioning as an active phospholipase. Active matrix metalloproteinase‐9 also increased with a coinciding decrease in the metalloproteinase inhibitor 1 and cystatin C.

Conclusion

We conclude that a number of proteins increase with RBC storage, which is partially ameliorated with leucoreduction, and transfusion of stored RBCs may introduce mediators that result in adverse events in the transfused host.
Assessment of endothelial dysfunction by flow‐mediated dilatation in men on long‐term androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer
Authors: Gilbert Stephen E. , Tew Garry A. , Bourke Liam , Winter Edward M. , Rosario Derek J.
Published: May 2013

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for prostate cancer has been linked with increased cardiovascular risk, but the mechanisms are unclear. Is there evidence that endothelial dysfunction, as evidenced by reduced flow‐mediated dilatation (FMD), is associated with ADT?

What is the main finding and its importance?

Reduction in FMD with preservation of glyceryl trinitrate‐mediated dilatation indicates endothelial dysfunction in men with prostate cancer on long‐term ADT compared with well‐matched control subjects. Vascular endothelial dysfunction associated with long‐term ADT for prostate cancer might explain the observed epidemiological increases in adverse cardiovascular events. Assessment of FMD may be useful in the monitoring of cardiovascular risk in men with prostate cancer on ADT.

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) in men with prostate cancer has been linked to an increased incidence of cardiovascular events and mortality, but the underpinning mechanisms are unclear. Endothelial dysfunction is considered a precursor for cardiovascular disease. Previous studies have reported variably on the association between ADT and endothelial function. This blinded case–control study examined endothelial function, using high‐resolution ultrasound to measure flow‐mediated dilatation (FMD) and glyceryl trinitrate (GTN)‐mediated‐dilatation in the brachial artery, in 20 men with prostate cancer (69 ± 7 years old) treated by ADT (median duration 22 months, range 6–133 months) and 20 men without prostate cancer (69 ± 5 years old) matched for age, physical activity, coexistent cardiovascular disease and body mass index. The magnitude of dilatation was calculated traditionally and allometrically scaled, adjusting for baseline diameter. There were no differences between groups for resting vascular measures (means ± SD). Flow‐mediated dilatation was lower in men on ADT than in control subjects (3.9 ± 2.1 versus 5.9 ± 3.8% for traditional, P= 0.047; 3.7 ± 2.7 versus 6.0 ± 2.7% for allometrically scaled, P= 0.023). Response to GTN was similar in both groups (12.2 ± 4.2 versus 14.8 ± 5.7% for traditional, P= 0.113; 12.3 ± 4.6 versus 14.4 ± 4.6% for allometrically scaled, P= 0.163). The magnitude of difference in mean FMD between groups was marginally altered to 2.4% (95% confidence interval 0.3–4.5) after adjustment for the difference in body fat mass and concomitant cardiovascular medication, with the difference in FMD remaining significant (P= 0.029). There is evidence of endothelial dysfunction in men with prostate cancer on long‐term ADT. Although a causal relationship is unproven, the findings are consistent with observational reports of adverse cardiovascular outcomes associated with long‐term ADT for prostate cancer.
Generic Escherichia coli Contamination of Spinach at the Preharvest Stage: Effects of Farm Management and Environmental Factors
Authors: Park Sangshin , Navratil Sarah , Gregory Ashley , Bauer Arin , Srinath Indumathi , Jun Mikyoung , Szonyi Barbara , Nightingale Kendra , Anciso Juan , Ivanek Renata
Published: May 2013

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of farm management and environmental factors on preharvest spinach contamination with genericEscherichia colias an indicator of fecal contamination. A repeated cross-sectional study was conducted by visiting spinach farms up to four times per growing season over a period of 2 years (2010 to 2011). Spinach samples (n= 955) were collected from 12 spinach farms in Colorado and Texas as representative states of the Western and Southwestern United States, respectively. During each farm visit, farmers were surveyed about farm-related management and environmental factors using a questionnaire. Associations between the prevalence of genericE. coliin spinach and farm-related factors were assessed by using a multivariable logistic regression model including random effects for farm and farm visit. Overall, 6.6% of spinach samples were positive for genericE. coli. Significant risk factors for spinach contamination with genericE. coliwere the proximity (within 10 miles) of a poultry farm, the use of pond water for irrigation, a >66-day period since the planting of spinach, farming on fields previously used for grazing, the production of hay before spinach planting, and the farm location in the Southwestern United States. Contamination with genericE. coliwas significantly reduced with an irrigation lapse time of >5 days as well as by several factors related to field workers, including the use of portable toilets, training to use portable toilets, and the use of hand-washing stations. To our knowledge, this is the first report of an association between field workers' personal hygiene and produce contamination with genericE. coliat the preharvest level. Collectively, our findings support that practice of good personal hygiene and other good farm management practices may reduce produce contamination with genericE. coliat the preharvest level.
Occurrence of the Transferable Copper Resistance Gene
tcrB
among Fecal Enterococci of U.S. Feedlot Cattle Fed Copper-Supplemented Diets
Authors: Amachawadi R. G. , Scott H. M. , Alvarado C. A. , Mainini T. R. , Vinasco J. , Drouillard J. S. , Nagaraja T. G.
Published: May 2013

Copper, an essential micronutrient, is supplemented in the diet at elevated levels to reduce morbidity and mortality and to promote growth in feedlot cattle. Gut bacteria exposed to copper can acquire resistance, which among enterococci is conferred by a transferable copper resistance gene (
tcrB
) borne on a plasmid. The present study was undertaken to investigate whether the feeding of copper at levels sufficient to promote growth increases the prevalence of the
tcrB
gene among the fecal enterococci of feedlot cattle. The study was performed with 261 crossbred yearling heifers housed in 24 pens, with pens assigned randomly to a 2ï¿½2 factorial arrangement of treatments consisting of dietary copper and a commercial linseed meal-based energy protein supplement. A total of 22 isolates, each identified as
Enterococcus faecium
, were positive for
tcrB
with an overall prevalence of 3.8% (22/576). The prevalence was higher among the cattle fed diets supplemented with copper (6.9%) compared to normal copper levels (0.7%). The
tcrB
-positive isolates always contained both
erm
(B) and
tet
(M) genes. Median copper MICs for
tcrB
-positive and
tcrB
-negative enterococci were 22 and 4 mM, respectively. The transferability of the
tcrB
gene was demonstrated via a filter-mating assay. Multilocus variable number tandem repeat analysis revealed a genetically diverse population of enterococci. The finding of a strong association between the copper resistance gene and other antibiotic (tetracycline and tylosin) resistance determinants is significant because enterococci remain potential pathogens and have the propensity to transfer resistance genes to other bacteria in the gut.
Investigation of the Relationship between Lactococcal Host Cell Wall Polysaccharide Genotype and 936 Phage Receptor Binding Protein Phylogeny
Authors: Mahony Jennifer , Kot Witold , Murphy James , Ainsworth Stuart , Neve Horst , Hansen Lars H. , Heller Knut J. , Sï¿½rensen Sï¿½ren J. , Hammer Karin , Cambillau Christian , Vogensen Finn K. , van Sinderen Douwe
Published: May 2013

Comparative genomics of 11 lactococcal 936-type phages combined with host range analysis allowed subgrouping of these phage genomes, particularly with respect to their encoded receptor binding proteins. The so-called pellicle or cell wall polysaccharide of
Lactococcus lactis
, which has been implicated as a host receptor of (certain) 936-type phages, is specified by a large gene cluster, which, among different lactococcal strains, contains highly conserved regions as well as regions of diversity. The regions of diversity within this cluster on the genomes of lactococcal strains MG1363, SK11, IL1403, KF147, CV56, and UC509.9 were used for the development of a multiplex PCR system to identify the pellicle genotype of lactococcal strains used in this study. The resulting comparative analysis revealed an apparent correlation between the pellicle genotype of a given host strain and the host range of tested 936-type phages. Such a correlation would allow prediction of the intrinsic 936-type phage sensitivity of a particular lactococcal strain and substantiates the notion that the lactococcal pellicle polysaccharide represents the receptor for (certain) 936-type phages while also partially explaining the molecular reasons behind the observed narrow host range of such phages.