bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The classification of Crithidia luciliae immunofluorescence test (CLIFT) using a novel automated system
Authors: Buzzulini Francesca , Rigon Amelia , Soda Paolo , Onofri Leonardo , Infantino Maria , Arcarese Luisa , Iannello Giulio , Afeltra Antonella
Published: March 2014

Introduction

In recent years, there has been an increased demand for computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) tools to support clinicians in the field of indirect immunofluorescence. To this aim, academic and industrial research is focusing on detecting antinuclear, anti-neutrophil, and anti-double-stranded (anti-dsDNA) antibodies. Within this framework, we present a CAD system for automatic analysis of dsDNA antibody images using a multi-step classification approach. The final classification of a well is based on the classification of all its images, and each image is classified on the basis of the labeling of its cells.

Methods

We populated a database of 342 images—74 positive (21.6%) and 268 negative (78.4%)— belonging to 63 consecutive sera: 15 positive (23.8%) and 48 negative (76.2%). We assessed system performance by using k-fold cross-validation. Furthermore, we successfully validated the recognition system on 83 consecutive sera, collected by using different equipment in a referral center, counting 279 images: 92 positive (33.0%) and 187 negative (67.0%).

Results

With respect to well classification, the system correctly classified 98.4% of wells (62 out of 63). Integrating information from multiple images of the same wells recovers the possible misclassifications that occurred at the previous steps (cell and image classification). This system, validated in a clinical routine fashion, provides recognition accuracy equal to 100%.

Conclusion

The data obtained show that automation is a viable alternative for Crithidia luciliae immunofluorescence test analysis.
Imperfect centered miRNA binding sites are common and can mediate repression of target mRNAs
Authors: Martin Hilary C , Wani Shivangi , Steptoe Anita L , Krishnan Keerthana , Nones Katia , Nourbakhsh Ehsan , Vlassov Alexander , Grimmond Sean M , Cloonan Nicole
Published: March 2014

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) bind to mRNAs and target them for translational inhibition or transcriptional degradation. It is thought that most miRNA-mRNA interactions involve the seed region at the 5′ end of the miRNA. The importance of seed sites is supported by experimental evidence, although there is growing interest in interactions mediated by the central region of the miRNA, termed centered sites. To investigate the prevalence of these interactions, we apply a biotin pull-down method to determine the direct targets of ten human miRNAs, including four isomiRs that share centered sites, but not seeds, with their canonical partner miRNAs.

Results

We confirm that miRNAs and their isomiRs can interact with hundreds of mRNAs, and that imperfect centered sites are common mediators of miRNA-mRNA interactions. We experimentally demonstrate that these sites can repress mRNA activity, typically through translational repression, and are enriched in regions of the transcriptome bound by AGO. Finally, we show that the identification of imperfect centered sites is unlikely to be an artifact of our protocol caused by the biotinylation of the miRNA. However, the fact that there was a slight bias against seed sites in our protocol may have inflated the apparent prevalence of centered site-mediated interactions.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that centered site-mediated interactions are much more frequent than previously thought. This may explain the evolutionary conservation of the central region of miRNAs, and has significant implications for decoding miRNA-regulated genetic networks, and for predicting the functional effect of variants that do not alter protein sequence.
Comprehensive Survivorship Care With Cost and Revenue Analysis
Authors: Rosales Alicia R. , Byrne Dia , Burnham Christa , Watts Lori , Clifford Kathleen , Zuckerman Dan S. , Beck Thomas
Published: March 2014

Survivorship care at MSTI meets new standards, allows for patient engagement and satisfaction, and improves care coordination; costs are covered by reimbursement.
Challenges in the Delivery of Quality Breast Cancer Care: Initiation of Adjuvant Hormone Therapy at an Urban Safety Net Hospital
Authors: Crowley Meaghan M. , McCoy Molly E. , Bak Sharon M. , Caron Sarah E. , Ko Naomi Y. , Kachnic Lisa A. , Alvis Faber , Battaglia Tracy A.
Published: March 2014

Urgently needed interventions to reduce disparities in breast cancer treatment should take into account obstacles inherent among immigrant and indigent populations and complexities of multidisciplinary cancer care.
Central Precocious Puberty That Appears to Be Sporadic Caused by Paternally Inherited Mutations in the Imprinted Gene Makorin Ring Finger 3
Authors: Macedo Delanie B. , Abreu Ana Paula , Reis Ana Claudia S. , Montenegro Luciana R. , Dauber Andrew , Beneduzzi Daiane , Cukier Priscilla , Silveira Leticia F. G. , Teles Milena G. , Carroll Rona S. , Junior Gil Guerra , Filho Guilherme Guaragna , Gucev Zoran , Arnhold Ivo J. P. , de Castro Margaret , Moreira Ayrton C. , Martinelli Carlos Eduardo , Hirschhorn Joel N. , Mendonca Berenice B. , Brito Vinicius N. , Antonini Sonir R. , Kaiser Ursula B. , Latronico Ana Claudia
Published: March 2014

Context:

Loss-of-function mutations in makorin ring finger 3 (MKRN3), an imprinted gene located on the long arm of chromosome 15, have been recognized recently as a cause of familial central precocious puberty (CPP) in humans. MKRN3 has a potential inhibitory effect on GnRH secretion.

Objectives:

The objective of the study was to investigate potential MKRN3 sequence variations as well as copy number and methylation abnormalities of the 15q11 locus in patients with apparently sporadic CPP.

Setting and Participants:

We studied 215 unrelated children (207 girls and eight boys) from three university medical centers with a diagnosis of CPP. All but two of these patients (213 cases) reported no family history of premature sexual development. First-degree relatives of patients with identified MKRN3 variants were included for genetic analysis.

Main Outcome Measures:

All 215 CPP patients were screened for MKRN3 mutations by automatic sequencing. Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification was performed in a partially overlapping cohort of 52 patients.

Results:

We identified five novel heterozygous mutations in MKRN3 in eight unrelated girls with CPP. Four were frame shift mutations predicted to encode truncated proteins and one was a missense mutation, which was suggested to be deleterious by in silico analysis. All patients with MKRN3 mutations had classical features of CPP with a median age of onset at 6 years. Copy number and methylation abnormalities at the 15q11 locus were not detected in the patients tested for these abnormalities. Segregation analysis was possible in five of the eight girls with MKRN3 mutations; in all cases, the mutation was inherited on the paternal allele.

Conclusions:

We have identified novel inherited MKRN3 defects in children with apparently sporadic CPP, supporting a fundamental role of this peptide in the suppression of the reproductive axis.
Usher protein complexes preassemble at the endoplasmic reticulum and are required for trafficking and ER homeostasis
Authors: Blanco-Sánchez Bernardo , Clément Aurélie , Fierro Junior Javier , Washbourne Philip , Westerfield Monte
Published: March 2014

Usher syndrome (USH), the leading cause of hereditary combined hearing and vision loss, is characterized by sensorineural deafness and progressive retinal degeneration. Mutations in several different genes produce USH, but the proximal cause of sensory cell death remains mysterious. We adapted a proximity ligation assay to analyze associations among three of the USH proteins, Cdh23, Harmonin, and Myo7aa, and the microtubule based transporter Ift88 in zebrafish inner ear mechanosensory hair cells. We found that the proteins are in close enough proximity to form complexes and that these complexes preassemble at the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Defects in any one of the three USH proteins disrupt formation and trafficking of the complex and result in diminished levels of the other proteins, generalized trafficking defects, and ER stress that triggers apoptosis. ER stress, thus, contributes to sensory hair cell loss and provides a new target to explore for protective therapies for Usher syndrome.
The effect of water temperature and flow on respiration in barnacles: patterns of mass transfer versus kinetic limitation
Authors: Nishizaki Michael T. , Carrington Emily
Published: March 2014

In aquatic systems, physiological processes such as respiration, photosynthesis, and calcification are potentially limited by the exchange of dissolved materials between organisms and their environment. The nature and extent of physiological limitation is, therefore, likely to be dependent on environmental conditions. Here, we assess the metabolic sensitivity of barnacles under a range of water temperatures and velocities, two factors that influence their distribution. Respiration rates increased in response to changes in temperature and flow, with an interaction where flow had less influence on respiration at low temperatures, and a much larger effect at high temperatures. Model analysis suggested that respiration is mass transfer limited under conditions of low velocity (< 7.5 cm s-1) and high temperature (20 to 25°C). In contrast, limitation by uptake reaction kinetics, when the biotic capacity of barnacles to absorb and process oxygen is slower than its physical delivery by mass transport, prevailed at high flows (40 to 150 cm s-1) and low temperatures (5 to 15°C). Moreover, there are intermediate flow-temperature conditions where both mass transfer and kinetic limitation are important. Behavioral monitoring revealed that barnacles fully extend their cirral appendages at low flows and display abbreviated “testing” behaviors at high flows, suggesting some form of mechanical limitation. In low flow-high temperature treatments, however, barnacles displayed distinct “pumping” behaviors that may serve to increase ventilation. Our results suggest that in slow moving waters, respiration may become mass transfer limited as temperatures rise, whereas faster flows may serve to ameliorate the effects of elevated temperatures. Moreover, these results underscore the necessity for approaches that evaluate the combined effects of multiple environmental factors when examining physiological and behavioral performance.
A viral aphrodisiac in the cricket Gryllus texensis
Authors: Adamo Shelley A. , Kovalko Ilya , Easy Russell H. , Stoltz Don
Published: March 2014

We identified the insect iridovirus IIV-6/CrIV as a pathogen of the cricket Gryllus texensis using electron microscopy (EM) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. Electron microscopy (EM) showed that the virus attacks the fat body, an organ important for protein production, immune function and lipid storage. During infection the fat body hypertrophied, but egg production withered, leaving the lateral oviducts empty of eggs; the females were effectively sterile. EM of the testis of infected males suggests that the testis was not invaded by the virus, although sperm taken from the spermatophores of infected males showed little or no motility. Nevertheless, males and females continued to mate when infected. In fact, infected males were quicker to court females than uninfected controls. The virus benefits from the continued sexual behaviour of its host; transmission studies show that the virus can be spread through sexual contact. Sickness behaviour, the adaptive reduction of feeding and sexual behaviour that is induced by an activated immune system, is absent in infected crickets. Total hemolymph protein is reduced, as is phenoloxidase activity, suggesting a reduction in immune protein production by the fat body. The evidence suggests that during IIV-6/CrIV infection, the immune signal(s) that induce sickness behaviour are absent. Curtailment of a host's sickness behaviour may be necessary for any pathogen that is spread by host sexual behaviour.
Development of π-Electron Systems Based on [M(dmit)2] (M = Ni and Pd; dmit: 1,3-dithiole-2-thione-4,5-dithiolate) Anion Radicals
Authors: Kato Reizo
Published: March 2014

Molecular conductors based on [M(dmit)2] (M = Ni and Pd) present a variety of π electron systems that pave the way for a higher stage of solid-state science. Supramolecular interactions between [Ni(dmit)2] anion and halogen-containing cations provide bilayer systems that are characterized by coexistence of two crystallographically independent anion layers with different molecular arrangements and contrasting (for example, metal/insulator and ferromagnetic/antiferromagnetic) properties. In [Pd(dmit)2] salts in the Mott insulating state, a small energy difference between HOMO and LUMO coupled with strong dimerization affords HOMO–LUMO band inversion. The dimer units [Pd(dmit)2]2− form a triangular lattice, and interplay of strong electron correlation and spin frustration generates a wide variety of magnetic/charge states including antiferromagnetic long-range order, quantum spin liquid, charge order, and valence bond order, depending on counter cations. The cation dependence is attributed to a systematic arch-shaped molecular distortion that tunes the anisotropy of interdimer transfer integrals. This means that the [Pd(dmit)2] molecular skeleton is sufficiently flexible within the crystal field, and molecular degrees of freedom play an important role in fine tuning of the electronic state.
The use of foliage and soil information for managing the nutrition of Sitka and Norway spruce on cutaway peatlands
Authors: Renou-Wilson Florence , Farrell Edward
Published: March 2014

This investigation focuses on the development and nutrient status of the first Sitka spruce and Norway spruce stands established on milled cutaway peatlands in Ireland in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Phosphatic fertilization at planting is critical for the establishment of trees on cutaway peatlands but may not be sufficient to see the stands close canopy. Results from this study indicate the likely demand for P and N fertilizer during the rotation of these plantations. During the ten-year-study period (1994â2004), the nutrient status of both Norway and Sitka spruce stands deteriorated with the passage of time. Twenty-seven out of the twenty-eight examined stands became P deficient before 10 years old and half of the plots were N deficient within 13 to 15 years. Sitka spruce stands became N and P deficient earlier than Norway spruce. Regardless of species, tree stands growing on Sphagnum peat entered the critical N deficiency threshold sooner and were all severely deficient by 2004 compared to 22% of the trees growing on Phragmites peat. The effects of aerial re-fertilization were also site specific and although P deficiency was cured, the trees were likely to suffer from nutrient imbalance (N and Cu especially). These results demand a change of standard fertilization practices, which should be related more specifically to peat type and species requirements. Peat type identification and foliar analysis monitoring should become standard management tools while the long-term continuous monitoring of these new forests would be very valuable throughout their first rotation.
Models in country scale carbon accounting of forest soils
Authors: Peltoniemi Mikko , Thürig Esther , Ogle Stephen , Palosuo Taru , Schrumpf Marion , Wutzler Thomas , Butterbach-Bahl Klaus , Chertov Oleg , Komarov Alexander , Mikhailov Aleksey , Gärdenäs Annemieke , Perry Charles , Liski Jari , Smith Pete , Mäkipää Raisa
Published: March 2014

Countries need to assess changes in the carbon stocks of forest soils as a part of national greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Kyoto Protocol (KP). Since measuring these changes is expensive, it is likely that many countries will use alternative methods to prepare these estimates. We reviewed seven well-known soil carbon models from the point of view of preparing country-scale soil C change estimates. We first introduced the models and explained how they incorporated the most important input variables. Second, we evaluated their applicability at regional scale considering commonly available data sources. Third, we compiled references to data that exist for evaluation of model performance in forest soils. A range of process-based soil carbon models differing in input data requirements exist, allowing some flexibility to forest soil C accounting. Simple models may be the only reasonable option to estimate soil C changes if available resources are limited. More complex models may be used as integral parts of sophisticated inventories assimilating several data sources. Currently, measurement data for model evaluation are common for agricultural soils, but less data have been collected in forest soils. Definitions of model and measured soil pools often differ, ancillary model inputs require scaling of data, and soil C measurements are uncertain. These issues complicate the preparation of model estimates and their evaluation with empirical data, at large scale. Assessment of uncertainties that accounts for the effect of model choice is important part of inventories estimating large-scale soil C changes. Joint development of models and large-scale soil measurement campaigns could reduce the inconsistencies between models and empirical data, and eventually also the uncertainties of model predictions.
More Evidence Challenging the Robustness and Usefulness of the Attraction Effect
Authors: Yang Sybil , Lynn Michael
Published: March 2014

Ninety-one attempts to produce an attraction effect (involving a total of 23 product classes and 73 different decoyed choice sets) produced only 11 reliable effects—significantly fewer than expected given the statistical power of the studies. Cross-scenario analyses indicated that the use of meaningful qualitative-verbal descriptions, as well as pictorial depictions, to differentiate choice options substantially reduced the size of those effects. Indeed, the authors found attraction effects at only chance levels using these types of stimuli. The article concludes with a brief discussion of the implications of these findings for both marketing practice and research.
Guest effect on spin-crossover frameworks
Authors: Cirera Jordi
Published: March 2014

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) represent a novel class of materials that are the subject of intense research efforts due to their potential technological applications. Although major efforts are being pursued in improving their adsorption properties, the use of open shell metal centers can add magnetic properties to the frameworks, thus making them suitable targets for the design of multifunctional materials. In this review, we present a summary of the recent advances in the field of spin-crossover frameworks (SCOFs), with emphasis on the guest effect over the magnetic properties of the MOF material. This review is organized as follows: First, an introduction to metal-organic frameworks and the spin-crossover phenomenon is presented. Second, we discuss previously reported SCOFs and examine how chemical modifications of the framework and the host/guest interactions affect their physical properties. Finally, an outlook on future applications of SCOFs is discussed.
Mice depleted of the coxsackievirus and adenovirus receptor display normal spermatogenesis and an intact blood–testis barrier
Authors: Sultana Taranum , Hou Mi , Stukenborg Jan-Bernd , Töhönen Virpi , Inzunza Jose , Chagin Andrei S , Sollerbrant Kerstin
Published: March 2014

The coxsackievirus and adenovirus receptor (CXADR (CAR)) is a cell adhesion molecule expressed mainly in epithelial cells. Numerous evidence indicate that CXADR has an important role in testis development and function of the blood–testis barrier (BTB)in vitro. The role of CXADR in testis physiologyin vivohas, however, not been addressed. We therefore constructed a conditional CXADR knockout (cKO) mouse model in which CXADR can be depleted at any chosen timepoint by the administration of tamoxifen. We report for the first time that testicular depletion of CXADR in adult and pubertal mice does not alter BTB permeability or germ cell migration across the BTB during spermatogenesis. Adult cKO mice display normal junctional ultra-structure and localization of the junctional proteins claudin-3, occludin, junction-associated molecule-A (JAM-A), and ZO1. The BTB was intact with no leakage of biotin and lanthanum tracers into the tubular lumen. Adult CXADR cKO mice were fertile with normal sperm parameters and litter size. Breeding experiments and genotyping of the pups demonstrated that CXADR-negative sperm could fertilize WT eggs. In addition, knocking down CXADR from postnatal day 9 (P9) does not affect testicular development and BTB formation. These cKO mice were analyzed at P49 and P90 and display an intact barrier and uncompromised fertility. We conclude that CXADR possesses no direct role in testicular physiologyin vivo.
Combined Inversion of Electrical Resistivity and Transient Electromagnetic Soundings for Mapping Groundwater Contamination Plumes in Al Quwy'yia Area, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Metwaly Mohamed , Elawadi Eslam , Moustafa Sayed S. R , Al-Arifi Nasser
Published: March 2014

Time-domain electromagnetic (TEM) soundings and vertical electrical soundings (VES) were conducted to assess the subsurface groundwater contamination in Al Quwy'yia area through tracing the conductivity changes caused by leachate contamination of groundwater. Most of the contamination sources are coming from the incomplete sanitary system and the illegal dumping of wastewater along the lowland area outside the town. Contamination of the groundwater poses a major threat because most of the local inhabitants rely on ground water to supply up to 60% of their water needs for various life activities. TEM and VES data sets have been acquired along four longitudinal profiles to cover the most urban area of Al Quwy'yia. The combined inversion of VES and TEM data sets increase the resolving certainty of the subsurface resistivity models. The basement rock has the highest resistivity values, whereas the uncontaminated limestone has moderate resistivity response in comparison with the contaminated zones, which have a lower resistivity response. The constructed cross-sections and resistivity slice maps along the area provide valuable information about the shallow seepage from the septic tanks, as well as the deep infiltration from the dump site at the southern part of the study area.
The Impact on Geological and Hydrogeological Mapping Results of Moving from Ground to Airborne TEM
Authors: Sapia Vincenzo , Viezzoli Andrea , Jørgensen Flemming , Oldenborger Greg A , Marchetti Marco
Published: March 2014

In the past three decades, airborne electromagnetic (AEM) systems have been used for many groundwater exploration purposes. This contribution of airborne geophysics for both groundwater resource mapping and water quality evaluations and management has increased dramatically over the past ten years, proving how these systems are appropriate for large-scale and efficient groundwater surveying. One of the major reasons for its popularity is the time and cost efficiency in producing spatially extensive datasets that can be applied to multiple purposes. In this paper, we carry out a simple, yet rigorous, simulation showing the impact of an AEM dataset towards hydrogeological mapping, comparing it to having only a ground-based transient electromagnetic (TEM) dataset (even if large and dense), and to having only boreholes. We start from an AEM survey and then simulate two different ground TEM datasets: a high resolution survey and a reconnaissance survey. The electrical resistivity model, which is the final geophysical product after data processing and inversion, changes with different levels of data density. We then extend the study to describe the impact on the geological and hydrogeological output models, which can be derived from these different geophysical results, and the potential consequences for groundwater management. Different data density results in significant differences not only in the spatial resolution of the output resistivity model, but also in the model uncertainty, the accuracy of geological interpretations and, in turn, the appropriateness of groundwater management decisions. The AEM dataset provides high resolution results and well-connected geological interpretations, which result in a more detailed and confident description of all of the existing geological structures. In contrast, a low density dataset from a ground-based TEM survey yields low resolution resistivity models, and an uncertain description of the geological setting.
Photocatalytic efficiency of titania photocatalysts in saline waters
Authors: Albrbar Asma , Bjelajac Andjelika , Djokic Veljko , Miladinovic Jelena , Janackovic Djordje , Petrovic Rada
Published: March 2014

The photocatalytic efficiency of the recently synthesized TiO2 powder, named
P160, of the degradation of dye Dye C.I. Reactive orange 16 in natural and
artificial seawater was investigated in comparison to its efficiency in
deionized water and the efficiency of a standard TiO2 powder Degusa P25. It
was shown that the photocatalytic efficiency of P160 was slightly higher
than that of P25, probably due to slightly higher specific surface area,
higher pore volume and larger pores of the powder P160. The efficiency of
both photocatalysts in natural and artificial seawater was significantly
lower than that in deionized water. The overall rate of dye degradation for
both types of photocatalysts is litle higher in artificial seawater than in
natural seawater, which shows the influence of organic compounds naturally
present in seawater on the photocatalysts activity. A saturation
Langmuir-type relationship between the initial degradation rate and the
initial dye concentration indicates that the adsorption plays a role in the
photocatalytic reaction. The photodegradation rate constant k, which
represents the maximum reaction rate, has similar values for P25 and P160 in
all types of water due to the similar properties of the photocatalysts.
Dengue virus serotype 4 and chikungunya virus coinfection in a traveller returning from Luanda, Angola, January 2014
Authors: Parreira R , Centeno-Lima S , Lopes A , Portugal-Calisto D , Constantino A , Nina J
Published: March 2014

A concurrent dengue virus serotype 4 and chikungunya virus infection was detected in a woman in her early 50s returning to Portugal from Luanda, Angola, in January 2014. The clinical, laboratory and molecular findings, involving phylogenetic analyses of partial viral genomic sequences amplified by RT-PCR, are described. Although the circulation of both dengue and chikungunya viruses in Angola has been previously reported, to our knowledge this is the first time coinfection with both viruses has been detected there.
Nucleic acid-based detection of influenza A virus subtypes H7 and N9 with a special emphasis on the avian H7N9 virus
Authors: Kalthoff D , Bogs J , Harder T , Grund C , Pohlmann A , Beer M , Hoffmann B
Published: March 2014

In 2013, a novel influenza A virus of subtype H7N9 was transmitted from avian sources to humans in China, causing severe illness and substantial mortality. Rapid and sensitive diagnostic approaches are the basis of epidemiological studies and of utmost importance for the detection of infected humans and animals. We developed various quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR (RT-qPCR) assays for (i) the generic detection of the haemagglutinin (HA) gene of H7 viruses or the neuraminidase (NA) gene of N9 viruses, and (ii) the specific detection of HA and NA of the novel avian H7N9/2013 virus. The sensitivity of the newly developed assays was compared with previously published PCRs, and the specificity of all RT-qPCRs was examined using a panel of 42 different H7 and 16 different N9 isolates. Furthermore, we analysed the performance of the RT-qPCR assays with dilution series and diagnostic samples obtained from animal experiments. Our study provides a comprehensive set of RT-qPCR assays for the reliable detection of the novel avian H7N9 virus, with high sensitivity and improved and tailored specificity values compared with published assays. Finally, we also present data about the robustness of a duplex assay for the simultaneous detection of HA and NA of the avian influenza H7N9/2013 virus.
Continuous dynamic mapping of the corticospinal tract during surgery of motor eloquent brain tumors: evaluation of a new method
Authors: Raabe Andreas , Beck Jürgen , Schucht Philippe , Seidel Kathleen
Published: March 2014

Object

The authors developed a new mapping technique to overcome the temporal and spatial limitations of classic subcortical mapping of the corticospinal tract (CST). The feasibility and safety of continuous (0.4–2 Hz) and dynamic (at the site of and synchronized with tissue resection) subcortical motor mapping was evaluated.

Methods

The authors prospectively studied 69 patients who underwent tumor surgery adjacent to the CST (< 1 cm using diffusion tensor imaging and fiber tracking) with simultaneous subcortical monopolar motor mapping (short train, interstimulus interval 4 msec, pulse duration 500 μsec) and a new acoustic motor evoked potential alarm. Continuous (temporal coverage) and dynamic (spatial coverage) mapping was technically realized by integrating the mapping probe at the tip of a new suction device, with the concept that this device will be in contact with the tissue where the resection is performed. Motor function was assessed 1 day after surgery, at discharge, and at 3 months.

Results

All procedures were technically successful. There was a 1:1 correlation of motor thresholds for stimulation sites simultaneously mapped with the new suction mapping device and the classic fingerstick probe (24 patients, 74 stimulation points; r2 = 0.98, p < 0.001). The lowest individual motor thresholds were as follows: > 20 mA, 7 patients; 11–20 mA, 13 patients; 6–10 mA, 8 patients; 4–5 mA, 17 patients; and 1–3 mA, 24 patients. At 3 months, 2 patients (3%) had a persistent postoperative motor deficit, both of which were caused by a vascular injury. No patient had a permanent motor deficit caused by a mechanical injury of the CST.

Conclusions

Continuous dynamic mapping was found to be a feasible and ergonomic technique for localizing the exact site of the CST and distance to the motor fibers. The acoustic feedback and the ability to stimulate the tissue continuously and exactly at the site of tissue removal improves the accuracy of mapping, especially at low (< 5 mA) stimulation intensities. This new technique may increase the safety of motor eloquent tumor surgery.
Filum terminale lipomas: imaging prevalence, natural history, and conus position
Authors: Cools Michael J. , Al-Holou Wajd N. , Stetler William R. , Wilson Thomas J. , Muraszko Karin M. , Ibrahim Mohannad , La Marca Frank , Garton Hugh J. L. , Maher Cormac O.
Published: March 2014

Object

Filum terminale lipomas (FTLs) are being identified with increasing frequency due to the increasing utilization of MRI. Although an FTL may be associated with tethered cord syndrome (TCS), in many cases FTLs are diagnosed incidentally in patients without any symptoms of TCS. The natural history of FTLs is not well defined.

Methods

The authors searched the clinical and imaging records at a single institution over a 14-year interval to identify patients with FTLs. For patients with an FTL, the clinical records were reviewed for indication for imaging, presenting symptoms, perceived need for surgery, and clinical outcome. A natural history analysis was performed using all patients with more than 6 months of clinical follow-up.

Results

A total of 436 patients with FTL were identified. There were 217 males and 219 females. Of these patients, 282 (65%) were adults and 154 (35%) were children. Symptoms of TCS were present in 22 patients (5%). Fifty-two patients underwent surgery for FTL (12%). Sixty-four patients (15%) had a low-lying conus and 21 (5%) had a syrinx. The natural history analysis included 249 patients with a mean follow-up time of 3.5 years. In the follow-up period, only 1 patient developed new symptoms.

Conclusions

Filum terminale lipomas are a common incidental finding on spinal MRI, and most patients present without associated symptoms. The untreated natural history is generally benign for asymptomatic patients.
Re-Configuration of Sphingolipid Metabolism by Oncogenic Transformation
Authors: Don Anthony , Lim Xin , Couttas Timothy
Published: March 2014

The sphingolipids are one of the major lipid families in eukaryotes, incorporating a diverse array of structural variants that exert a powerful influence over cell fate and physiology. Increased expression of sphingosine kinase 1 (SPHK1), which catalyses the synthesis of the pro-survival, pro-angiogenic metabolite sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), is well established as a hallmark of multiple cancers. Metabolic alterations that reduce levels of the pro-apoptotic lipid ceramide, particularly its glucosylation by glucosylceramide synthase (GCS), have frequently been associated with cancer drug resistance. However, the simple notion that the balance between ceramide and S1P, often referred to as the sphingolipid rheostat, dictates cell survival contrasts with recent studies showing that highly potent and selective SPHK1 inhibitors do not affect cancer cell proliferation or survival, and studies demonstrating higher ceramide levels in some metastatic cancers. Recent reports have implicated other sphingolipid metabolic enzymes such as acid sphingomyelinase (ASM) more strongly in cancer pathogenesis, and highlight lysosomal sphingolipid metabolism as a possible weak point for therapeutic targeting in cancer. This review describes the evidence implicating different sphingolipid metabolic enzymes and their products in cancer pathogenesis, and suggests how newer systems-level approaches may improve our overall understanding of how oncogenic transformation reconfigures sphingolipid metabolism.
An Operational Web-Based Indicator System for Integrated Coastal Zone Management
Authors: Hansen Henning , Fuglsang Morten
Published: March 2014

Coastal zones are under severe pressure from anthropogenic activities, as well as on-going climate change with associated sea level rise and increased storminess. These challenges call for integrated and forward looking solutions. The concept on Integrated Coastal Zone Management, as defined during the last twenty years, provides the overall policy frames, but tools to support the planning and management efforts are almost lacking. Furthermore, the forward-looking dimension to embrace the effects of climate change is nearly absent in most implementations. The BLAST project, financed by the European Union Regional Fund through the INTERREG IV North Sea Region Programme, aimed at developing a web-based decision support system to assist Integrated Coastal Zone Management from a climate change perspective, and the current paper describes the methods used and the computing platform for implementing a decision support system. The software applied in developing the system is mainly Open Source components, thus, facilitating a more widespread use of the system.
Towards Controlling the Glycoform: A Model Framework Linking Extracellular Metabolites to Antibody Glycosylation
Authors: Jedrzejewski Philip , Del Val Ioscani , Constantinou Antony , Dell Anne , Haslam Stuart , Polizzi Karen , Kontoravdi Cleo
Published: March 2014

Glycoproteins represent the largest group of the growing number of biologically-derived medicines. The associated glycan structures and their distribution are known to have a large impact on pharmacokinetics. A modelling framework was developed to provide a link from the extracellular environment and its effect on intracellular metabolites to the distribution of glycans on the constant region of an antibody product. The main focus of this work is the mechanistic in silico reconstruction of the nucleotide sugar donor (NSD) metabolic network by means of 34 species mass balances and the saturation kinetics rates of the 60 metabolic reactions involved. NSDs are the co-substrates of the glycosylation process in the Golgi apparatus and their simulated dynamic intracellular concentration profiles were linked to an existing model describing the distribution of N-linked glycan structures of the antibody constant region. The modelling framework also describes the growth dynamics of the cell population by means of modified Monod kinetics. Simulation results match well to experimental data from a murine hybridoma cell line. The result is a modelling platform which is able to describe the product glycoform based on extracellular conditions. It represents a first step towards the in silico prediction of the glycoform of a biotherapeutic and provides a platform for the optimisation of bioprocess conditions with respect to product quality.
Passive Temperature Stabilization of Silicon Photonic Devices Using Liquid Crystals
Authors: Ptasinski Joanna , Khoo Iam-Choon , Fainman Yeshaiahu
Published: March 2014

In this work we explore the negative thermo-optic properties of liquid crystal claddings for passive temperature stabilization of silicon photonic integrated circuits. Photonic circuits are playing an increasing role in communications and computing, but they suffer from temperature dependent performance variation. Most existing techniques aimed at compensation of thermal effects rely on power hungry Joule heating. We show that integrating a liquid crystal cladding helps to minimize the effects of a temperature dependent drift. The advantage of liquid crystals lies in their high negative thermo-optic coefficients in addition to low absorption at the infrared wavelengths.
Hollow Pollen Shells to Enhance Drug Delivery
Authors: Diego-Taboada Alberto , Beckett Stephen , Atkin Stephen , Mackenzie Grahame
Published: March 2014

Pollen grain and spore shells are natural microcapsules designed to protect the genetic material of the plant from external damage. The shell is made up of two layers, the inner layer (intine), made largely of cellulose, and the outer layer (exine), composed mainly of sporopollenin. The relative proportion of each varies according to the plant species. The structure of sporopollenin has not been fully characterised but different studies suggest the presence of conjugated phenols, which provide antioxidant properties to the microcapsule and UV (ultraviolet) protection to the material inside it. These microcapsule shells have many advantageous properties, such as homogeneity in size, resilience to both alkalis and acids, and the ability to withstand temperatures up to 250 °C. These hollow microcapsules have the ability to encapsulate and release actives in a controlled manner. Their mucoadhesion to intestinal tissues may contribute to the extended contact of the sporopollenin with the intestinal mucosa leading to an increased efficiency of delivery of nutraceuticals and drugs. The hollow microcapsules can be filled with a solution of the active or active in a liquid form by simply mixing both together, and in some cases operating a vacuum. The active payload can be released in the human body depending on pressure on the microcapsule, solubility and/or pH factors. Active release can be controlled by adding a coating on the shell, or co-encapsulation with the active inside the shell.
Metabolism and Antiretroviral Activity of Tenofovir Alafenamide in CD4+ T-Cells and Macrophages from Demographically Diverse Donors
Authors: Bam Rujuta A , Birkus Gabriel , Babusis Darius , Cihlar Tomas , Yant Stephen R
Published: March 2014

Background

Tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) is a novel investigational prodrug of tenofovir (TFV) that permits enhanced delivery of TFV into peripheral blood mono-nuclear cells (PBMCs) and lymphatic tissues. A critical step in the intracellular metabolic activation of TAF is mediated by the lysosomal protease cathepsin A (CatA). Here, we investigated CatA levels together with intracellular metabolism and antiretroviral activity of TAF in primary CD4+ T-lymphocytes (CD4s) and monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) isolated from a demographically diverse group of blood donors.

Methods

CD4s and MDMs were prepared from fresh PBMCs. CatA levels were quantified in cell extracts by monitoring TAF hydrolysis using HPLC. Intracellular TAF metabolites were quantified by HPLC combined with mass spectrometry. Antiviral activities in activated CD4s and MDMs were determined using HIV-1 single-cycle reporter and p24 antigen production assays, respectively.

Results

The levels of CatA and intracellular TAF metabolites differed minimally in CD4s and MDMs among 13 tested donors. TAF was >600-fold and 80-fold more potent than parent TFV in CD4s and MDMs, respectively, and its relative range of antiviral activity across all tested donors was comparable to that of other HIV-1 reverse transcriptase inhibitors, with mean ±sd (range) EC50 values of 11.0 ±3.4 (6.6–19.9) nM and 9.7 ±4.6 (2.5–15.7) nM in CD4s and MDMs, respectively.

Conclusions

These results indicate consistent intracellular metabolism and antiretroviral potency of TAF in relevant target cells of HIV-1 infection across multiple donors of variable gender, age and ethnicity, supporting further clinical investigation of TAF.
A seasonal agricultural drought forecast system for food-insecure regions of East Africa
Authors: Shukla S. , McNally A. , Husak G. , Funk C.
Published: March 2014

Abstract. The increasing food and water demands of East Africa's growing population are stressing the region's inconsistent water resources and rain-fed agriculture. More accurate seasonal agricultural drought forecasts for this region can inform better water and agricultural management decisions, support optimal allocation of the region's water resources, and mitigate socio-economic losses incurred by droughts and floods. Here we describe the development and implementation of a seasonal agricultural drought forecast system for East Africa (EA) that provides decision support for the Famine Early Warning Systems Network's science team. We evaluate this forecast system for a region of equatorial EA (2° S to 8° N, and 36° to 46° E) for the March-April-May growing season. This domain encompasses one of the most food insecure, climatically variable and socio-economically vulnerable regions in EA, and potentially the world: this region has experienced famine as recently as 2011. To assess the agricultural outlook for the upcoming season our forecast system simulates soil moisture (SM) scenarios using the Variable Infiltration Capacity (VIC) hydrologic model forced with climate scenarios for the upcoming season. First, to show that the VIC model is appropriate for this application we forced the model with high quality atmospheric observations and found that the resulting SM values were consistent with the Food and Agriculture Organization's (FAO's) Water Requirement Satisfaction Index (WRSI), an index used by FEWS NET to estimate crop yields. Next we tested our forecasting system with hindcast runs (1993–2012). We found that initializing SM forecasts with start-of-season (5 March) SM conditions resulted in useful SM forecast skill (> 0.5 correlation) at 1-month, and in some cases at 3 month lead times. Similarly, when the forecast was initialized with mid-season (i.e. 5 April) SM conditions the skill until the end-of-season improved. This shows that early-season rainfall is critical for end-of-season outcomes. Finally we show that, in terms of forecasting spatial patterns of SM anomalies, the skill of this agricultural drought forecast system is generally greater (> 0.8 correlation) during drought years. This means that this system might be particularity useful for identifying the events that present the greatest risk to the region.
Controlling balance in an ensemble Kalman filter
Authors: Gottwald G. A.
Published: March 2014

Abstract. We present a method to control unbalanced fast dynamics in an ensemble Kalman filter by introducing a weak constraint on the imbalance in a spatially sparse observational network. We show that the balance constraint produces significantly more balanced analyses than ensemble Kalman filters without balance constraints and than filters implementing incremental analysis updates (IAU). Furthermore, our filter with the weak constraint on imbalance produces good rms error statistics which outperform those of ensemble Kalman filters without balance constraints for the fast fields.
Linear Determination of a Camera's Intrinsic Parameters Using Two Intersecting Circles
Authors: Chen Xu , Zhao Yue , ShengNan Fu
Published: March 2014

An approach using two intersecting circles is proposed as a linear approach for determining a camera's intrinsic parameters. The two intersecting coplanar circles have four intersection points in the projective plane: two real points and two circular points. In the image plane, the diagonal triangle - on which the image of the four intersection points composes a complete quadrangle - is a self-polar triangle for the projection curves of the circles. The vertex of the self-polar triangle is the null space of the degenerate conic formed by the image of the four intersection points. By solving the three vertices of the self-polar triangle using the image coordinates of the two real intersection points, the degenerate conic can be obtained. The image of the two circular points is then computed from the intersection points of the degenerate conic. Using the image of the circular points from the three images of the same planar pattern with different directions, the intrinsic parameters can be linearly determined.
Keanekaragaman dan persebaran lalat buah Tribe Dacini (Diptera: Tephritidae) di Kabupaten Bogor dan sekitarnya
Authors: Larasati Anik , Hidayat Purnama , Buchori Damayanti
Published: March 2014

Bogor dan sekitarnya merupakan salah satu wilayah Jawa Barat yang memiliki keanekaragaman tanaman hortikultura yang tinggi dan memengaruhi keberadaan serta keanekaragaman lalat buah di wilayah ini. Penelitian terkait keanekaragaman spesies lalat buah tidak hanya berhubungan dengan jumlah spesies lalat buah, namun juga memberikan informasi ekologi mengenai persebaran lalat buah di Kabupaten Bogor dan sekitarnya. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui keanekaragaman dan persebaran dari spesies lalat buah serta inangnya di Kabupaten Bogor dan sekitarnya. Lalat buah dikoleksi dari 119 lokasi pengambilan contoh di Kabupaten Bogor dan beberapa lokasi dari Cianjur, Bekasi dan Depok. Pengambilan contoh dilakukan dengan menggunakan 2 metode, yaitu pemeliharaan inang dan penggunaan perangkap. Perangkap yang digunakan adalah modifikasi dari perangkap Lynfield dan dikombinasikan dengan 2 atraktan yang berbeda, yaitu Methyl eugenol (ME) dan Cue lure (CL). Tercatat 18 spesies lalat buah yang didapatkan melalui pemasangan perangkap dan pemeliharaan 24 spesies inang. Hasil penelitan menunjukkan bahwa persebaran, keanekaragaman dan kelimpahan dari lalat buah dipengaruhi oleh keanekaragaman inang lalat.