bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coeliac disease: the path to diagnosis and the reality of living with the disease
Authors: Taylor E. , Dickson‐Swift V. , Anderson K.
Published: November 2012

Background

Coeliac disease (CD) is an under‐diagnosed and often misunderstood disease, yet is one of the most common food intolerance disorders. The only treatment available to prevent the health impacts of CD is a lifelong, strict gluten‐free diet (GFD). There are few studies that explore the experiences of diagnosis and the everyday experiences of living with this chronic condition.

Methods

Utilising a qualitative study design, and purposive sampling, the present study describes the experiences of 10 women with coeliac disease in Victoria, Australia. Individual interviews were conducted with women aged between 31 and 60 years who had been diagnosed with CD for at least 2 years.

Results

A thematic analysis of the interview transcripts highlighted a number of issues for those living with the disease. Reactions to diagnosis, transition to a GFD and the changes needed to live with CD are discussed.

Conclusions

A range of recommendations including the need to increase CD awareness and education and further research on the impacts of living with the disease are made.
Assessment of supplement use (including vitamin D) in Inuvialuit adults in the Northwest Territories, Canada
Authors: Kozicky S. K. , Mathe N. , Butler J. L. , Hébert T. M. , Corriveau A. , Sharma S.
Published: November 2012

Background

Inuvialuit of Arctic Canada are at high risk for inadequate vitamin D status as a result of rapid dietary transitions and a lack of solar ultraviolet B exposure. This may have implications for the development of adverse skeletal diseases, cardiovascular diseases and cancers. Data are limited regarding supplement use in Arctic Aboriginal populations. The present study aimed to describe the type and extent of supplement use, emphasising vitamin D, and to identify differences between supplement users and non‐users.

Methods

Supplement information was collected from a population‐specific quantitative food frequency questionnaire in three communities in the Northwest Territories, Canada, as part of a cross‐sectional study. Data were analysed for frequency of supplementation and types of supplements. Users and non‐users were compared in terms of age, sex, body mass index, education, marital status, income support, employment and chronic disease diagnosis using nonparametric tests and the chi‐squared test.

Results

Response rates ranged from 65% to 85%. Included in the analysis were 192 Inuvialuit (45 males, 147 females) with a mean (SD) age of 43.6 (13.9) years. Twenty‐three percent reported using a supplement, with multivitamins being the most common. Three percent indicated taking a vitamin D‐containing supplement. No significant differences between supplement users and non‐users were found.

Conclusions

Despite limited sun exposure for many months of the year, a small proportion of Inuvialuit adults were using supplements, and specifically vitamin D‐containing supplements. Future population‐based intervention strategies should promote consumption of vitamin D rich foods and encourage the use of vitamin D supplements if diet alone is unable to meet recommendations.
Neuromodulation: selected approaches and challenges
Authors: Parpura Vladimir , Silva Gabriel A. , Tass Peter A. , Bennet Kevin E. , Meyyappan M. , Koehne Jessica , Lee Kendall H. , Andrews Russell J.
Published: November 2012

The brain operates through complex interactions in the flow of information and signal processing within neural networks. The ‘wiring’ of such networks, being neuronal or glial, can physically and/or functionally go rogue in various pathological states. Neuromodulation, as a multidisciplinary venture, attempts to correct such faulty nets. In this review, selected approaches and challenges in neuromodulation are discussed. The use of water‐dispersible carbon nanotubes has been proven effective in the modulation of neurite outgrowth in culture and in aiding regeneration after spinal cord injury in vivo. Studying neural circuits using computational biology and analytical engineering approaches brings to light geometrical mapping of dynamics within neural networks, much needed information for stimulation interventions in medical practice. Indeed, sophisticated desynchronization approaches used for brain stimulation have been successful in coaxing ‘misfiring’ neuronal circuits to resume productive firing patterns in various human disorders. Devices have been developed for the real‐time measurement of various neurotransmitters as well as electrical activity in the human brain during electrical deep brain stimulation. Such devices can establish the dynamics of electrochemical changes in the brain during stimulation. With increasing application of nanomaterials in devices for electrical and chemical recording and stimulating in the brain, the era of cellular, and even intracellular, precision neuromodulation will soon be upon us.
Clavicles, interclavicles, gastralia, and sternal ribs in sauropod dinosaurs: new reports from Diplodocidae and their morphological, functional and evolutionary implications
Authors: Tschopp Emanuel , Mateus Octávio
Published: November 2012

Ossified gastralia, clavicles and sternal ribs are known in a variety of reptilians, including dinosaurs. In sauropods, however, the identity of these bones is controversial. The peculiar shapes of these bones complicate their identification, which led to various differing interpretations in the past. Here we describe different elements from the chest region of diplodocids, found near Shell, Wyoming, USA. Five morphotypes are easily distinguishable: (A) elongated, relatively stout, curved elements with a spatulate and a bifurcate end resemble much the previously reported sauropod clavicles, but might actually represent interclavicles; (B) short, L‐shaped elements, mostly preserved as a symmetrical pair, probably are the real clavicles, as indicated by new findings in diplodocids; (C) slender, rod‐like bones with rugose ends are highly similar to elements identified as sauropod sternal ribs; (D) curved bones with wide, probably medial ends constitute the fourth morphotype, herein interpreted as gastralia; and (E) irregularly shaped elements, often with extended rugosities, are included into the fifth morphotype, tentatively identified as sternal ribs and/or intercostal elements. To our knowledge, the bones previously interpreted as sauropod clavicles were always found as single bones, which sheds doubt on the validity of their identification. Various lines of evidence presented herein suggest they might actually be interclavicles – which are single elements. This would be the first definitive evidence of interclavicles in dinosauromorphs. Previously supposed interclavicles in the early sauropodomorph Massospondylus or the theropods Oviraptor and Velociraptor were later reinterpreted as clavicles or furculae. Independent from their identification, the existence of the reported bones has both phylogenetic and functional significance. Their presence in non‐neosauropod Eusauropoda and Flagellicaudata and probable absence in rebbachisaurs and Titanosauriformes shows a clear character polarity. This implicates that the ossification of these bones can be considered plesiomorphic for Sauropoda. The proposed presence of interclavicles in sauropods may give further support to a recent study, which finds a homology of the avian furcula with the interclavicle to be equally parsimonious to the traditional theory that furcula were formed by the fusion of the clavicles. Functional implications are the stabilizing of the chest region, which coincides with the development of elongated cervical and caudal vertebral columns or the use of the tail as defensive weapon. The loss of ossified chest bones coincides with more widely spaced limbs, and the evolution of a wide‐gauge locomotor style.
Affective reactions to a pay system reform and their impact on employee behaviour
Authors: Tenhiälä Aino , Lount Robert B.
Published: November 2012

Consistent with some of the central tenets of Affective Events Theory, we argue in this study that viewing the introduction of a new pay system as an affective event can help to explain employee attitudes and behaviours. This study examines the impact of employees' initial affective reactions to a pay system reform on subsequent behaviours. The data were collected across 2 years in a context where a new pay system was implemented. We were able to match affective responses at the beginning of the reform with behavioural responses at the end of the reform and turnover data (N = 267–495). Positive affective reactions predicted higher levels of voice and, through organizational commitment, lower levels of turnover. Negative affective reactions predicted higher levels of voice and helping behaviours. These results shed light on how affective reactions can influence employee behaviours and attitudes following an important work event, such as the introduction of a new compensation system. The implications for theory and practice are discussed.

Practitioner Points

The results of the study suggest that the implementation of a new pay system can induce long‐lasting emotional responses which have implications for employee attitudes and behaviour. For example, positive affective reactions were associated with lower levels of turnover.

As both positive and negative affective reactions were associated with expressing more voice, organizations may think about increasing the opportunity for employees to express their voice (e.g., having extra opportunities to talk with a manager or allowing for anonymous feedback) following the introduction of a pay system.
Species Diversity, Phylogeny and Large Scale Biogeographic Patterns of the Genus Padina (Phaeophyceae, Dictyotales)
Authors: Silberfeld Thomas , Bittner Lucie , Fernández‐García Cindy , Cruaud Corinne , Rousseau Florence , de Reviers Bruno , Leliaert Frederik , Payri Claude E. , De Clerck Olivier
Published: November 2012

The brown algal genus Padina (Dictyotales, Phaeophyceae) is distributed worldwide in tropical and temperate seas. Global species diversity and distribution ranges, however, remain largely unknown. Species‐level diversity was reassessed using DNA‐based, algorithmic species delineation techniques based on cox3 and rbcL sequence data from 221 specimens collected worldwide. This resulted in estimates ranging from 39 to 61 putative species (ESUs), depending on the technique as well as the locus. We discuss the merits, potential pitfalls, and evolutionary and biogeographic significance of algorithmic species delineation. We unveil patterns whereby ESUs are in all but one case restricted to either the Atlantic or Indo‐Pacific Ocean. Within ocean basins we find evidence for the vast majority of ESUs to be confined to a single marine realm. Exceptions, whereby ESUs span up to three realms, are located in the Indo‐Pacific Ocean. Patterns of range‐restricted species likely arise by repeated founder events and subsequent peripatric speciation, hypothesized to dominate speciation mechanisms for coastal marine organisms in the Indo‐Pacific. Using a three‐gene (cox3, psaA and rbcL), relaxed molecular clock phylogenetic analysis we estimated divergence times, providing a historical framework to interpret biogeographic patterns.
Traditional and Quantitative Assessment of Acid‐Base and Shock Variables in Horses with Atypical Myopathy
Authors: van Galen G. , Cerri S. , Porter S. , Saegerman C. , Lefere L. , Roscher K. , Marr C. , Amory H. , Votion D.M.
Published: November 2012

Background

Descriptions of acid‐base disturbances in atypical myopathy (AM) are limited.

Objectives

Describe and compare traditional and quantitative acid‐base abnormalities and cardiovascular shock status in horses withAMat admission.

Animals

34 horses withAM, 15 healthy controls.

Methods

Retrospective case‐control study. Records were searched for shock variables (packed cell volume [PCV], blood urea nitrogen [BUN], heart and respiratory rate) and acid‐base variables (venous blood gas analysis, electrolytes, total protein, lactate) on admission. Base excess (BE) of free water (BEfw), chloride (BEcl), total protein (BEtp), and unidentified anions (BEua), anion gap (AG), measured strong ion difference (SIDm), and concentration of total nonvolatile weak acids ([Atot]) were calculated. Acid‐base classifications, using simplified strong ion model and traditional approach, and shock grades were assigned. A 2‐sample Wilcoxon rank‐sum test and Bonferroni correction compared variables inAMcases versus control horses. Significance wasP < .05/16 for acid‐base andP < .05/5 for shock variables.

Results

Tachycardia, tachypnea, and normal to increased PCV and BUN were common in AM cases. Respiratory, metabolic acid‐base alterations, or both were mainly caused by respiratory alkalosis, lactic acidosis, and SIDm alkalosis, alone or in combination. Evaluated variables (exceptpH, potassium concentration, total protein, and related calculations) were significantly different (P < .001) between AM cases and control horses. The strong ion model provided a more accurate assessment than the traditional approach and identified mixed derangements.

Conclusions and clinical importance

Acid‐base derangements should be evaluated in horses withAMand this preferably with the strong ion model.
Effects of Dexamethasone‐21‐Isonicotinate on Peripheral Insulin Action in Dairy Cows 5 days after Surgical Correction of Abomasal Displacement
Authors: Kusenda M. , Kaske M. , Piechotta M. , Locher L. , Starke A. , Huber K. , Rehage J.
Published: November 2012

Background

Dexamethasone frequently is used for treatment of ketosis in dairy cows, but its effects are not fully understood.

Hypothesis

Dexamethasone treatment affects whole body insulin sensitivity.

Animals

Twelve German Holstein cows, 2–4 weeks postpartum, 5 days after omentopexy to correct left abomasal displacement.

Methods

Randomized, blinded, case‐control study. Treatment with dexamethasone‐21‐isonicotinate (DG; 40 μg/kg IM; n = 6) or saline (control group [CG], 15 mL IM, n = 6) on day 0 (d0). Blood samples were obtained before (d0) and after treatment (d1 and d2), and analyzed for glucose, insulin, and nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) concentrations. Hepatic triglycerides (TAG) were measured in liver samples taken on d0 and d2. Five consecutive hyperinsulinemic‐euglycemic clamps (HEC‐I‐V; insulin dosages: 0.1, 0.5, 2, 5, 10 mU/kg/min, respectively) were performed on d1 and steady state glucose infusion rate (SSGIR), insulin concentration (SSIC), insulin sensitivity index (ISI = SSGIR/SSIC), and plasma NEFA concentration (SSNEFA) were assessed.

Results

Compared withCG‐cows,DG‐cows on d1 had higher plasma glucose (P = .004) and insulin (P < .001) concentrations, decreasedSSGIR(HEC‐II,P = .002;HEC‐IV,P = .033),ISI(HEC‐I,P < .015;HEC‐II,P = .004), and insulin‐stimulated decrease inSSNEFA(HEC‐II,P = .006;HEC‐III,P = .01;HEC‐IV,P = .003;HEC‐V,P = .011). Decrease in hepaticTAGcontent inDG‐cows was higher compared withCG‐cows (P < .001).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Dexamethasone decreases whole body insulin sensitivity and affects glucose and lipid metabolism in early lactating dairy cows.
Population pharmacokinetics of cefquinome in pigs
Authors: Zhao D. H. , Zhang C. Y. , Zhang Z. , Liu Z. C. , Liu B. T. , Yu J. J. , Guo J. P. , Deng H. , Liu Y. H.
Published: November 2012

This study was performed in 145 pigs to develop a population pharmacokinetics (PPK) model by i.m. administration of cefquinome (CEQ) at the dose of 2 mg/kg in the neck muscle. Serum physiological and biochemical parameters for each pig were determined before administration. After administration, 2–4 samples were collected at random, with the sampling point evenly distributed in the three periods (<1 h, 1–4 h and >4 h). The plasma concentration of CEQ was determined by high performance liquid chromatography withUVdetector. The pharmacostatistical analyses of concentration‐time data, weight, age, gender, serum physiological and biochemical parameters were performed with nonlinear mixed effect modeling (NONMEM). A one‐compartmental model with first‐order absorption and elimination adequately described the data from the study group. The optimal random effect model of pharmacokinetics parameters was of log‐normal distribution and the residual errors assumed a mixed‐type model (proportional and additive) to best explain intra‐individual variability. Covariate analysis showed that body weight is positively correlated with apparent volume of distribution (V/F) and body clearance (CL/F). The typicalPPKparameters ofKa,CL, and V were 0.564/h, 5.15 L/h, and 1.36 L, respectively.
Evolutionary history of almond tree domestication in the Mediterranean basin
Authors: Delplancke M. , Alvarez N. , Benoit L. , Espíndola A. , I Joly H. , Neuenschwander S. , Arrigo N.
Published: November 2012

Genetic diversity of contemporary domesticated species is shaped by both natural and human‐driven processes. However, until now, little is known about how domestication has imprinted the variation of fruit tree species. In this study, we reconstruct the recent evolutionary history of the domesticated almond tree, Prunus dulcis, around the Mediterranean basin, using a combination of nuclear and chloroplast microsatellites [i.e. simple sequence repeat (SSRs)] to investigate patterns of genetic diversity. Whereas conservative chloroplast SSRs show a widespread haplotype and rare locally distributed variants, nuclear SSRs show a pattern of isolation by distance with clines of diversity from the East to the West of the Mediterranean basin, while Bayesian genetic clustering reveals a substantial longitudinal genetic structure. Both kinds of markers thus support a single domestication event, in the eastern side of the Mediterranean basin. In addition, model‐based estimation of the timing of genetic divergence among those clusters is estimated sometime during the Holocene, a result that is compatible with human‐mediated dispersal of almond tree out of its centre of origin. Still, the detection of region‐specific alleles suggests that gene flow from relictual wild preglacial populations (in North Africa) or from wild counterparts (in the Near East) could account for a fraction of the diversity observed.
Examining the language–place–healthcare intersection in the context of Canadian homecare nursing
Authors: Giesbrecht Melissa D , Crooks Valorie A , Stajduhar Kelli I
Published: November 2012

Currently, much of the western world is experiencing a shift in the places where care is provided, namely from institutional settings like hospitals to diverse community settings such as the home. However, little is known about how language and the physical and social aspects of place interact to influence how health‐care is delivered and experienced in the home environment. Drawing on ethnographic participant observations of homecare nursing visits and semi‐structured interviews with Canadian family caregivers, care recipients and nurses, the intersection of language, place and health‐care was explored in this secondary analysis. Our findings reveal four themes: homecare nurses view themselves as ‘guests’; home environments facilitate the development of nurse–client relationships; nurses adapt healthcare language to each home environment; and storytelling and illness narratives largely prevail during medical interactions in the home. These findings demonstrate the spatiality of language and how the home environment informs decisions regarding language use. Furthermore, these findings exemplify how language and place mutually influence the experiences and delivery of home health‐care. We conclude by discussing the importance of considering the language–place–healthcare intersection in order to gain a better understanding of medical exchanges in places and the associated implications for optimizing best nursing practice.
Thoracic structure and enrolment style in middle Cambrian Eccaparadoxides pradoanus presages caudalization of the derived trilobite trunk
Authors: ESTEVE JORGE , HUGHES NIGEL C. , ZAMORA SAMUEL
Published: November 2012

Abstract:  The ability to enrol effectively evolved several times among trilobites. Here, we show that, unlike most redlichiid trilobites that could not enrol, both morphotypes of Eccaparadoxides pradoanus from the middle Cambrian of Spain enrolled so as to enclose most of the ventral surface beneath the exoskeleton and possessed specialized articulating devices that facilitated this behaviour. The holaspid thorax of all E. pradoanus was divided into two principal regions. The boundary between these marked a transition from anterior segments with short pleural spines, fulcra and ridge‐and‐groove inner pleural regions to posterior segments with longer, acuminate pleural spines that lack fulcra and inner pleural regions. Devices that aid articulation, such as fulcra with short articulating pleural surfaces, the petaloid articulating facet and long articulating half rings, are concentrated in the anterior region. These features, and the large number of specimens preserved in various degrees of enrolment, suggest an enrolment procedure in which the rear part of the trunk, containing both the posterior thorax and the pygidium, rotated as a single unit without significant internal flexure. As these posterior trunk articulations were apparently not required to permit enrolment, concentrating flexure in the anterior may have presaged the caudalized condition seen in many derived trilobite groups that encapsulated, in which a larger proportion of the trunk segments were allocated to the mature pygidium, and therefore unable to articulate.
Nebulized lidocaine alone or combined with fentanyl as a premedication to general anesthesia in spontaneously breathing pediatric patients undergoing rigid bronchoscopy
Authors: Moustafa Moustafa A.
Published: November 2012

Introduction

Pediatric bronchoscopy is an intensely stimulating procedure that requires a deep level of anesthesia to prevent hemodynamic overstimulation and straining. Topical anesthesia of the airway may be a beneficial component of the anesthetic technique to achieve adequate depth without residual sedation. Experimental evidence suggests that in addition to its central effects, locally applied opioids elicit potent analgesic effects.

Methods

Forty‐five patients aged 1–6 years scheduled for rigid bronchoscopy for foreign body removal were selected and subjected preoperatively to a nebulizer setting according to its components patients were divided into three groups. Group A: Nebulized solution contains 4 mg·kg−1 lidocaine 1%. Group B: Nebulized solution contains 4 mg·kg−1 lidocaine 1% plus 2 μg·kg−1 fentanyl. Group C: Nebulized solution contains 0.9% normal saline. Anesthesia was induced with 8% sevoflurane in 100% oxygen and maintained with continuous infusion of propofol 200 μg·kg−1. Increments of 500 μg·kg−1 propofol were given to the patient in case of straining or coughing. Patients were followed for the hemodynamics, the intraoperative difficulties, postoperative sedation score, time to full wakefulness and the postoperative complications.

Results

The hemodynamic parameters were much more stable in the fentanyl group relative to the other two groups. Also, the incidence of intraoperative difficulties was less significantly evident among patients in the fentanyl group (As regards cough P1 = 0.003, P2 = 0.0001, As regards the need to manual ventilation P1 = 0.037, P2 = 0.001, As regards Propofol increments P1 = 0.001, P2 = 0.001 where P1 refers to the fentanyl group relative to the lidocaine group, and P2 refers to fentanyl group relative to the placebo group). The postoperative sedation score was significantly higher, and the time to full wakefulness was significantly prolonged among patients in the fentanyl group relative to the other groups (P = 0.0001).

Conclusion

It is concluded that preoperative nebulized fentanyl reduces the hemodynamic response to bronchoscopy and decreases the intraoperative coughing in response to surgical manipulation without significant side effects except prolonged time to full wakefulness of patients.
Altered expression of CmNRRa changes flowering time of Chrysanthemum morifolium
Authors: Zhang Yuman , Lian Lijuan , Liu Qing , Xiao Na , Fang Rongxiang , Liu Qinglin , Chen Xiaoying
Published: November 2012

Flowering time is an important ornamental trait for chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium, Dendranthema x grandiflorum) floricultural production. In this study, CmNRRa, an orthologous gene of OsNRRa that regulates root growth in response to nutrient stress in rice, was identified from Chrysanthemum and its role in flowering time was studied. The entire CmNRRa cDNA sequence was determined using a combinatorial PCR approach along with 5′ and 3′ RACE methods. CmNRRa expression levels in various tissues were monitored by real‐time RT‐PCR. CmNRRa was strongly expressed in flower buds and peduncles, suggesting that CmNRRa plays a regulatory role in floral development. To investigate the biological function of CmNRRa in chrysanthemums, overexpression and knockdown of CmNRRa were carried out using transgenic Chrysanthemum plants generated through Agrobacterium‐mediated transformation. CmNRRa expression levels in the transgenic plants were assayed by real‐time RT‐PCR and Northern blot analysis. The transgenic plants showed altered flowering times compared with nontransgenic plants. CmNRRa‐RNAi transgenic plants flowered 40–64 days earlier, while CmNRRa‐overexpressing plants exhibited a delayed flowering phenotype. These results revealed a negative effect of CmNRRa on flowering time modulation. Alteration of CmNRRa expression levels might be an effective means of controlling flowering time in Chrysanthemum. These results possess potential application in molecular breeding of chrysanthemums that production year‐round, and may improve commercial chrysanthemum production in the flower industry.
Differentiating roseola infantum with pyuria from urinary tract infection
Authors: Huang Chun‐Ta , Lin Lung‐Huang
Published: November 2012

Background

The aim of this study was to identify factors for differentiating roseola infantum from urinary tract infection (UTI) and to describe a cohort of infants diagnosed with roseola infantum and sterile pyuria.

Methods

The medical records of infants diagnosed with roseola infantum or UTI were examined. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify factors associated with UTI. Demographic and clinical variables were compared between infants who had roseola infantum with or without sterile pyuria.

Result

There were 301 infants included: 158 in the roseola group (21, 13.3% with sterile pyuria) and 143 in the UTI group. The relative risk of UTI over roseola infantum: increased with leukocytosis (white blood cell [WBC] count >10 000/mm3, odds ratio [OR] = 85.62) and pyuria (OR = 18.97); decreased with age (OR = 0.90); increased in boys (OR = 2.48); increased with WBC count 4000–10 000/mm3 (OR = 4.24); and decreased with duration of fever (OR = 0.84). There was a significantly higher proportion of girls in the roseola pyuria group (81.0%) compared with the no pyuria group (44.5%, P = 0.002). A significantly higher proportion of infants in the roseola pyuria group (76.2%) received antibiotics than infants in the no pyuria group (38.0%, P = 0.002).

Conclusion

Leukocytosis is the strongest predictor of UTI over roseola infantum. Sterile pyuria may occur in infants with roseola infantum.
Successful mechanical circulatory support for 251 days in a child with intermittent severe neutropenia due to Barth syndrome
Authors: Dedieu Nathalie , Giardini Alessandro , Steward Colin G. , Fenton Matthew , Karimova Ann , Hsia T. Y. , Burch Michael
Published: November 2012

Barth syndrome is an X‐linked recessive disorder that is characterized by cardiomyopathy, variable neutropenia, skeletal myopathy, growth delay, and organic aciduria. The cardiac involvement typically results in a high risk of severe heart failure in infancy or early childhood. While Berlin Heart EXCOR is widely accepted as ventricular assistance in pediatric patients with end‐stage cardiac failure, infections remain a frequent and potentially severe complication. Therefore, the extended use of the device in the setting of intermittent or severe neutropenia is challenging. We present the case of a three‐yr child with Barth syndrome who was bridged successfully to transplant with a Berlin Heart EXCOR assist device for eight months (251 days) without major infectious complication, despite several episodes of severe neutropenia. This case demonstrates that prolonged mechanical circulatory support for a patient with neutropenia is feasible without important morbidity, with careful monitoring and a multidisciplinary approach. G‐CSF provides an excellent support in managing neutropenia.
Posttreatment of Olive Mill Wastewater by Immobilized TiO2 Photocatalysis
Authors: Costa José C. , Alves M. Madalena
Published: November 2012

A photocatalytic reactor with UV/TiO2 was used for the posttreatment of olive mill wastewater after anaerobic digestion. A factorial experimental design was adopted to determine the statistical significance of each parameter tested, namely, initial chemical oxygen demand (COD), pH, treatment time and recirculation flow and possible interactions in three response variables: phenols, color and COD removals. Removal efficiencies of 90.8 ± 2.7%, 79.3 ± 1.9% and 50.3 ± 6.3% were obtained for total phenols (TPh), color and COD respectively. TPh and color were almost completely removed after 24 h of treatment, while the COD removal was partial. Because increasing the treatment time is economically unfeasible a recirculation to the anaerobic reactor should be considered. Regarding the most significant variables, the TPh removal efficiency is dependent of the initial COD concentration; the color removal efficiency decreased with increasing COD concentration and pH; and, the COD removal efficiency is directly linked with the treatment time. The interaction between the initial COD and treatment time affect negatively the response variables tested because of the inactivation of some active sites of the TiO2 paper.
The 5‐methyl‐deoxy‐cytidine (5mdC) localization to reveal in situ the dynamics of DNA methylation chromatin pattern in a variety of plant organ and tissue cells during development
Authors: Testillano Pilar S. , Solís María‐Teresa , Risueño María C.
Published: November 2012

DNA methylation of cytosine residues constitutes a prominent epigenetic modification of the chromatin fiber which is locked in a transcriptionally inactive conformation leading to gene silencing. Plant developmental processes, as differentiation and proliferation, are accompanied by chromatin remodeling and epigenetic reprogramming. Despite the increasing knowledge gained on the epigenetic mechanisms controlling plant developmental processes, the knowledge of the DNA methylation regulation during relevant developmental programs in flowering plants, such as gametogenesis or embryogenesis, is very limited. The analysis of global DNA methylation levels has been frequently conducted by high performance capillary electrophoresis, and more recently also by ELISA‐based assays, which provided quantitative data of whole organs and tissues. Nevertheless, to investigate the DNA methylation dynamics during plant development in different cell types of the same organ, the analysis of spatial and temporal pattern of nuclear distribution of 5‐methyl‐deoxy‐cytidine (5mdC) constitutes a potent approach. In this work, immunolocalization of 5mdC on sections and subsequent confocal laser microscopy analysis have been applied for in situ cellular analysis of a variety of plant cells, tissues and organs with different characteristics, e.g. hardness, heterogeneity, cell accessibility, tissue compactness, etc.; the results demonstrated the versatility and feasibility of the approach for different plant samples, and revealed defined DNA methylation nuclear patterns associated with differentiation and proliferation events of various plant cell types and developmental programs. Quantification of 5mdC immunofluorescence intensity by image analysis software also permitted to estimate differences in global DNA methylation levels among different cells types of the same organ during development.
Single‐Layer Centrifugation Reduces Equine Arteritis Virus Titre in the Semen of Shedding Stallions
Authors: Morrell JM , Timoney P , Klein C , Shuck K , Campos J , Troedsson M
Published: November 2012

Contents

Several countries have adopted strategies for preventing and/or controlling equine viral arteritis based on vaccination and restricting the breeding activities of carrier stallions. However, in some cases, carrier stallions are only identified after they have transmitted virus to a mare. Therefore, a mechanism for separating virus from spermatozoa in the semen of carrier stallions would facilitate control measures for preventing disease transmission. In this study, the use of several modifications of single‐layer centrifugation (SLC, SLC with an inner tube and double SLC) through Androcoll‐E, a species‐specific colloid were evaluated for their ability to separate spermatozoa from virus in ejaculates from carrier stallions. The three types of SLC significantly reduced the virus titre in fresh semen at 0 h and in stored semen at 24 h (p < 0.001) but did not completely eliminate the virus. Sperm motility parameters such as total motility and progressive motility were significantly increased after colloid centrifugation, whereas curvilinear velocity and amplitude of lateral head deviation were decreased, and the remainder (straight line velocity, average path velocity, straightness, linearity, wobble and beat cross‐frequency) were not significantly affected by the processing. Although virus titres were reduced in the SLC samples, significant levels of infectivity still remained, especially in stallions shedding large amounts of virus. It remains to be determined whether SLC‐processed sperm samples from stallions shedding low virus titres retain sufficient equine arteritis virus to cause infection in mares through artificial insemination.
Making Sense of Elegant Complexity in Design
Authors: Lewis Kemper
Published: November 2012

The complexity of many large-scale systems is outpacing our ability to effectively design, analyze, and manage such systems. Projects such as the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, the Boeing Dreamliner, the Mars Science Lab, Boston’s Big Dig, and the U.S. Navy’s Independence warship have all been well over budget and behind schedule. While there may be a number of contributing factors, the enormous complexity of the designed systems is certainly a culprit. Large enterprises appear to be embarking on the design of such systems without a fundamental understanding of some critical principles of complex systems. These principles are emerging in the design research community and clearly illustrate that there are some elegant and simple principles that can be used to better understand, predict, and design large-scale complex systems. In this article, a number of these principles are presented in an effort to highlight the emerging research in the science of designing complex systems. An assertion is made that simplicity and complexity can and should co-exist and if simple and elegant principles are ignored, disastrous consequence may await.
Efficient implementation of the 3D‐DDA ray traversal algorithm on GPU and its application in radiation dose calculation
Authors: Xiao Kai , Chen Danny Z. , Hu X. Sharon , Zhou Bo
Published: November 2012

Purpose:

The three‐dimensional digital differential analyzer (3D‐DDA) algorithm is a widely used ray traversal method, which is also at the core of many convolution/superposition (C/S) dose calculation approaches. However, porting existing C/S dose calculation methods onto graphics processing unit (GPU) has brought challenges to retaining the efficiency of this algorithm. In particular, straightforward implementation of the original 3D‐DDA algorithm inflicts a lot of branch divergence which conflicts with the GPU programming model and leads to suboptimal performance. In this paper, an efficient GPU implementation of the 3D‐DDA algorithm is proposed, which effectively reduces such branch divergence and improves performance of the C/S dose calculation programs running on GPU.

Methods:

The main idea of the proposed method is to convert a number of conditional statements in the original 3D‐DDA algorithm into a set of simple operations (e.g., arithmetic, comparison, and logic) which are better supported by the GPU architecture. To verify and demonstrate the performance improvement, this ray traversal method was integrated into a GPU‐based collapsed cone convolution/superposition (CCCS) dose calculation program.

Results:

The proposed method has been tested using a water phantom and various clinical cases on an NVIDIA GTX570 GPU. The CCCS dose calculation program based on the efficient 3D‐DDA ray traversal implementation runs 1.42 ∼ 2.67× faster than the one based on the original 3D‐DDA implementation, without losing any accuracy.

Conclusions:

The results show that the proposed method can effectively reduce branch divergence in the original 3D‐DDA ray traversal algorithm and improve the performance of the CCCS program running on GPU. Considering the wide utilization of the 3D‐DDA algorithm, various applications can benefit from this implementation method.
Klein's theorem and the proof of E = mc2
Authors: Ohanian Hans C.
Published: November 2012

Despite repeated attempts, Einstein failed to give us a general and rigorous proof of his E0=mc2 relation. A completely general proof emerged in 1918 from a theorem on the four-vector character of energy-momentum of extended systems by the mathematician Felix Klein, but this proof is not well known, rarely seen in textbooks, and sometimes misunderstood. A simple version of this proof is presented here, with discussion of the crucial role of the energy-momentum tensor.
Confined modes in two-dimensional tubes
Authors: Londergan J. T. , Murdock D. P.
Published: November 2012

We survey various numerical methods for finding solutions of quantum confined states. We especially consider states in two-dimensional (2D) tubes, or 2D surfaces that are confined in the transverse direction but are unconfined in the longitudinal direction. We first review existence proofs for bound states in long 2-D tubes. We then review various methods for finding such states and we discuss the significance of these eigenstates.
Ways to resolve Selleri's paradox
Authors: Kassner Klaus
Published: November 2012

Selleri's paradox, based on an analysis of rotating frames, appears to show that the speed of light in an inertial system is not normally isotropic. This in turn seems at odds with the second postulate of special relativity requiring a universal light speed in inertial systems. First, it is demonstrated how to circumvent Selleri's argument using Einstein synchronization in rotating frames. Then the nature of Selleri's result is exposed: it simply corresponds to the adoption of a synchronization procedure different from Einstein's. In this scheme, anisotropic one-way speeds of light by no means contradict special relativity.
Solving Complex Problems
Authors: Hodges K. V.
Published: November 2012

Solving Complex Problems, an IBI prize–winning module, challenges students to use their knowledge creatively in order to design solutions.
A Mutation in EGF Repeat-8 of Notch Discriminates Between Serrate/Jagged and Delta Family Ligands
Authors: Yamamoto Shinya , Charng Wu-Lin , Rana Nadia A. , Kakuda Shinako , Jaiswal Manish , Bayat Vafa , Xiong Bo , Zhang Ke , Sandoval Hector , David Gabriela , Wang Hao , Haltiwanger Robert S. , Bellen Hugo J.
Published: November 2012

Discerning a Difference

Neighboring cells communicate via the Notch signaling pathway to make numerous decisions. Notch receptors are known to distinguish between two distinct ligand families, Delta and Serrate/Jagged, in different contexts. Posttranslational sugar modifications have been shown to play a role in this process, but it is not clear if other features of Notch are involved. Using a forward genetic approach in fruit flies,

Yamamoto
et al.

(p.
1229
) identified an evolutionarily conserved amino acid in the extracellular domain of Notch necessary for Serrate/Jagged signaling but dispensable for Delta signaling.
Embers of the Distant Past
Authors: Bromm Volker
Published: November 2012

Detection of imprints from ancient star light places constraints on the evolution of the early universe.
The Collective Behind the Genius
Hawking Incorporated
Stephen Hawking and the Anthropology of the Knowing Subject

by Hélène Mialet

University of Chicago Press, Chicago, 2012. 276 pp. $90, £58. ISBN 9780226522265. Paper, $29, £18.50. ISBN 9780226522289.
Authors: Agar Jon
Published: November 2012

Mialet explores the networks (social, material, and machine-based) that sustain the "collective body" of Hawking and his research.
Outsmarting Outbreaks
Authors: Walker Mark J. , Beatson Scott A.
Published: November 2012

Bringing advanced genomic sequencing technologies to health care facilities will help to prevent local outbreaks of dangerous pathogens.
BP Criminal Case Generates Record Payout for Science and Restoration
Authors: Malakoff David
Published: November 2012

Some $2.5 billion of the $4 billion that BP will pay to settle charges related to the 2010
Deepwater Horizon
oil spill is dedicated to ecological restoration projects in the five U.S. states along the Gulf of Mexico.
Enterococci in the Environment
Authors: Byappanahalli Muruleedhara N. , Nevers Meredith B. , Korajkic Asja , Staley Zachery R. , Harwood Valerie J.
Published: November 2012

Enterococci are common, commensal members of gut communities in mammals and birds, yet they are also opportunistic pathogens that cause millions of human and animal infections annually. Because they are shed in human and animal feces, are readily culturable, and predict human health risks from exposure to polluted recreational waters, they are used as surrogates for waterborne pathogens and as fecal indicator bacteria (FIB) in research and in water quality testing throughout the world. Evidence from several decades of research demonstrates, however, that enterococci may be present in high densities in the absence of obvious fecal sources and that environmental reservoirs of these FIB are important sources and sinks, with the potential to impact water quality. This review focuses on the distribution and microbial ecology of enterococci in environmental (secondary) habitats, including the effect of environmental stressors; an outline of their known and apparent sources, sinks, and fluxes; and an overview of the use of enterococci as FIB. Finally, the significance of emerging methodologies, such as microbial source tracking (MST) and empirical predictive models, as tools in water quality monitoring is addressed. The mounting evidence for widespread extraenteric sources and reservoirs of enterococci demonstrates the versatility of the genus
Enterococcus
and argues for the necessity of a better understanding of their ecology in natural environments, as well as their roles as opportunistic pathogens and indicators of human pathogens.
Type IV Pilin Proteins: Versatile Molecular Modules
Authors: Giltner Carmen L. , Nguyen Ylan , Burrows Lori L.
Published: November 2012

Type IV pili (T4P) are multifunctional protein fibers produced on the surfaces of a wide variety of bacteria and archaea. The major subunit of T4P is the type IV pilin, and structurally related proteins are found as components of the type II secretion (T2S) system, where they are called pseudopilins; of DNA uptake/competence systems in both Gram-negative and Gram-positive species; and of flagella, pili, and sugar-binding systems in the archaea. This broad distribution of a single protein family implies both a common evolutionary origin and a highly adaptable functional plan. The type IV pilin is a remarkably versatile architectural module that has been adopted widely for a variety of functions, including motility, attachment to chemically diverse surfaces, electrical conductance, acquisition of DNA, and secretion of a broad range of structurally distinct protein substrates. In this review, we consider recent advances in this research area, from structural revelations to insights into diversity, posttranslational modifications, regulation, and function.
Adult T-cell lymphoma/leukaemia with haematemesis as a prodromal manifestation
Authors: Binesh Fariba , Mirjalili Mohamad Reza , Vahedian Hasanali , Bashiri Hamidreza
Published: November 2012

We report a case of adult T-cell leukaemia/lymphoma (ATLL) with haematemesis as a prodromal manifestation. The patient was a 34-year-old woman from Yazd. She also gave a history of a fluctuating skin lesions consisting of non-pruritic papules and ulcers on her feet. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy disclosed obvious nodularities without ulceration in the antrum of the stomach. Histological and immunohistochemical studies of the gastric biopsy specimen showed lymphomatous infiltration of diffuse pleomorphic type with a T-cell phenotype. Laboratory investigations revealed leucocytosis (consisting of highly atypical lymphocytes, many with clover-leaf-shaped nuclei) and hypercalcaemia. She was found to be seropositive for human T-lymphotropic virus type 1. A diagnosis of overt ATLL was made. The findings in this case indicate that an awareness of the existence of this disease in anon-endemic area such as Yazd is necessary to avoid potential misdiagnosis and be helpful in appropriate therapeutic decision.
Initial experience with an extremely soft bare platinum coil, ED coil-10 Extra Soft, for endovascular treatment of cerebral aneurysms
Authors: Harada Kei , Morioka Jun
Published: November 2012

Background and purpose

The ED coil-10 Extra Soft (EDC-10 ES) is an extremely soft coil with excellent operability for embolization of cerebral aneurysms and is frequently used as a ‘finishing coil’. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of this coil.

Methods

Clinical data were analyzed retrospectively for 92 consecutive aneurysms for which at least one EDC-10 ES was used. Follow-up angiography at 6 months was available for 69 aneurysms. Initial and follow-up outcomes were evaluated using three-category occlusion grading. Factors that affect the packing density were also investigated.

Results

Of the 92 aneurysms, 63 (68.5%) were classified as complete occlusion, 11 (12.0%) as having a neck remnant and 18 (19.6%) with dome filling immediately after the embolization procedure. The mean±SD packing density was 29.5±10.6%. Periprocedural complications were observed in three cases (3.3%). At 6 months the rate of completely occluded cases increased to 78.3% (54/69) and those for neck remnant and dome filling decreased to 11.8% (8/69) and 10.1% (7/69), respectively. Recanalization occurred in six aneurysms and one aneurysm was retreated during the follow-up period, giving an overall recurrence rate of 10.0% (7/70). Linear regression analysis showed a significant association of packing density with the percentage EDC-10 ES volume (p<0.001) and with the maximum aneurysm size (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Use of the EDC-10 ES permits safe and effective embolization of a cerebral aneurysm and contributes to a reduction in the rate of recanalization.