bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Broadband planar circularly polarised antenna for ultra‐high frequency applications
Authors: Rezaeieh Sasan Ahdi , Abbosh Amin , Antoniades Marco A.
Published: December 2013

A broadband circularly polarised (CP) antenna employing a deformed square loop radiator in combination with two spiraled monopoles is presented, for use in multiple ultra‐high frequency applications. This combination of radiators provides a broad impedance matching bandwidth which is not accessible using any of these techniques alone. The antenna employs a uniplanar structure that is fed using a coplanar waveguide for simplicity of fabrication. A dual‐resonance response is achieved by introducing two spiraled monopoles in combination with a square loop radiator. Subsequently, circular polarisation is achieved by introducing three conducting rectangles into the periphery of the square loop, forming a deformed loop radiator. The increase in the electrical length caused by the introduction of the three rectangles also improves the impedance matching of the antenna, providing a wide impedance bandwidth. The antenna exhibits a 45% (556–882 MHz) −10 dB impedance bandwidth, and a 21% (715–880 MHz) 3 dB axial ratio bandwidth. It has a compact size of 0.28λ × 0.28λ × 0.002λ at 582 MHz, which is the lowest resonant frequency of the antenna. Throughout the operating bands, the gain and radiation efficiency vary from 3.6 to 6.4 dBi and 85 to 90%, respectively.
Shunt reactive VAR compensator for grid‐connected induction generator in wind energy conversion systems
Authors: Rajendran Santhi , Govindarajan Uma , Reuben Annelyn Beulah , Srinivasan Aarthi
Published: December 2013

This work presents the control design for compensating reactive power requirement of induction generator (IG) in wind generation systems using STATic COMpensator (STATCOM). A mathematical model of IG is developed in synchronously rotating d–q–0 axis. The STATCOM is realised using voltage source inverter for which the switching function model is derived and employed here. Instantaneous p–q theory and symmetrical components theory are considered for reference current generation. The current control uses an optimal proportional controller designed using linear quadratic regulator (LQR) approach. Comparative analysis is also made between hysteresis current control and LQR. Simulation and experimental results indicate that the suggested control techniques make the supply power factor close to unity.
Aptamer and graphene‐based electrochemical biosensor for dopamine determination with high sensitivity and selectivity
Authors: Jiao Luyang , Lu Guangjian , Zhang Chunxiao , Yuan Yan , Wang Junxiang , Zhang Qunmei , Li Pingfa
Published: December 2013

Dopamine is a kind of neurotransmitter. The abnormalities in dopamine metabolism may lead to various psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases. Thus, fast and accurate detection of dopamine is urgently needed. Presented in this Letter is a convenient and cost‐effective electrochemical method for the detection of dopamine based on aptamer and graphene. The specific recognition between dopamine and the RNA aptamer allows high selectivity, and the excellent electronic properties of graphene nanosheets ensure the high sensitivity of this biosensor.
Investigating personality and conceptualising allied health as person or technique oriented
Authors: Campbell Narelle , Eley Diann S , McAllister Lindy
Published: December 2013

Objective
Allied health (AH) includes many diverse professions, each with a unique contribution to healthcare, making it possible to consider these professions as person oriented (PO) or technique oriented (TO). This paper explored the personality traits of AH professionals from the perspective of both the PO or TO orientation and the individual professions.

Methods
AH professionals (n = 562) provided demographic data and completed the Temperament and Character Inventory. Examination of the literature and a consultation process resulted in nine professions classified as PO and 10 classified as TO. Multivariate analyses compared levels of personality traits and demographic variables between the PO (n = 492) and TO (n = 70) groups, and the professions within the groups.

Results
Professionals in the PO group showed significantly higher levels of traits that emphasise person orientation attributes, such as being sociable, empathic and cooperative, compared with AH professionals in professions with an emphasis on TO.

Conclusions
Trends in personality traits among AH professionals were congruent with the PO and TO aspects of their chosen profession. This supports the usefulness of the PO and TO concepts in describing AH professions and may provide new clues for policy aiming to enhance job satisfaction, retention and career development.

What is known about the topic?
The literature suggests that certain medical specialities can be classified as person (PO) or technique oriented (TO) and that individuals attracted to those specialties display traits that are similar to that orientation. There is scant information on the AH professions regarding similar person or technique orientations.

What does this paper add?
The diversity of professions within AH allows a new approach to describing each profession as either PO (socially dependent, cooperative and relationship focused), or TO (focused on skills and procedures). The trend in personality traits of individuals in certain AH professions is compatible with the orientation of that profession. Findings suggest that individuals may be attracted to professions that favour a similar personality pattern to their own.

What are the implications for practitioners?
Gaining an improved understanding of the AH professions and individuals who are attracted to them in a climate of workforce shortage and increasing multidisciplinary service demand. The findings provide a new approach to understanding the characteristics of AH professions according to the personalities they attract. This information could guide recruitment and retention policy, and assist in career counselling by providing greater insight into personality profiles that are best suited to certain professions.
Tate conjecture for a product of a Shimura curve and a Picard modular surface
Authors: Virdol Cristian
Published: December 2013

In this paper we prove the Tate conjecture for a product of a Shimura curve and a Picard modular surface.
Low Froude number limit of the rotating shallow water and Euler equations
Authors: Wu Kung-Chien
Published: December 2013

We perform the mathematical derivation of the rotating lake equations (or anelastic system) from the classical solution of the rotating shallow water and Euler equations when the Froude number tends to zero.
Uniform stabilization of a nonlinear dispersive system
Authors: Pazoto A. , Souza G.
Published: December 2013

The purpose of this work is to study the internal stabilization of a coupled system of two generalized Korteweg-de Vries equations under the effect of a localized damping term. To obtain the decay we use multiplier techniques combined with compactness arguments and reduce the problem to prove a unique continuation property for weak solutions. A locally exponential decay result is derived.
2013 IDSA Clinical Practice Guideline for Vaccination of the Immunocompromised Host
Authors: Rubin Lorry G. , Levin Myron J. , Ljungman Per , Davies E. Graham , Avery Robin , Tomblyn Marcie , Bousvaros Athos , Dhanireddy Shireesha , Sung Lillian , Keyserling Harry , Kang Insoo
Published: December 2013

An international panel of experts prepared an evidenced-based guideline for vaccination of immunocompromised adults and children. These guidelines are intended for use by primary care and subspecialty providers who care for immunocompromised patients. Evidence was often limited. Areas that warrant future investigation are highlighted.
Effect of Wheat Grain Steaming and Washing on Lipase Activity in Whole Grain Flour
Authors: De Almeida Juliano Luiz , Pareyt Bram , Gerits Lien R. , Delcour Jan A.
Published: December 2013

During whole grain flour (WGF) storage, lipase activity causes partial loss of its functionality and the sensory acceptability of products produced from it. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of steaming and washing on lipase activity in (fractions of) wheat. Steam treatment conditions were optimized for wheat grains and their bran, shorts, and flour fractions. Lipase activities were determined colorimetrically, as were peroxidase, endoxylanase, and α‐amylase activities. Steaming grains for 180 s effectively inactivated lipase, peroxidase, endoxylanase, and part of the α‐amylase without gelatinizing starch. The work further demonstrated that lipase is mainly, if not only, located in the bran fraction. Separate bran treatment holds promise for obtaining WGF with reduced lipase activity but without altered functional properties. Washing grains did not reduce WGF lipase activity.
First Report of Blossom Blight Caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum on Japanese Plum, Nectarine, and Sweet Cherry Orchards in Chile
Authors: Ferrada E. E. , Díaz G. A. , Zoffoli J. P. , Latorre B. A.
Published: December 2013

Blossom blight of Japanese plum (Prunus salicina), nectarine (P. persica var. nectarina), and sweet cherry (P. avium) was observed in commercial orchards in central Chile in 2012. Disease prevalence of 8% and 1% were estimated in 2012 and 2013, respectively. Early symptoms appeared as small pale-brown necrotic lesions on the petals that eventually affected the entire flowers. White and cottony fungal colonies were consistently isolated on potato dextrose agar acidified with 0.5 ml/liter of 92% lactic acid (APDA), incubated for 5 days at 20°C. Black spherical to elongated sclerotia of 2.5 to 4.2 × 2.8 to 5.3 mm (n = 60) were formed on APDA. This fungus was tentatively identified as Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Lib.) de Bary. The identity of the fungus was confirmed by BLAST analysis of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region (GenBank Accession Nos. KF148604 to KF148609) of rDNA, amplified with PCR primers ITS1/ITS4 (3), demonstrating a 99 to 100% similarity with the reference S. sclerotiorum strains (EU082466 and JX307092). The pathogenicity was studied in detached flowers of ‘Larry Ann’ Japanese plum, ‘Summer Bright’ nectarine, and ‘Bing’ sweet cherry that were inoculated with a mycelial suspension (106 fragments/ml) of six isolates of S. sclerotiorum and incubated for 5 days at 20°C in humid chambers (>80% relative humidity). Inoculated flowers developed a light brown petal necrosis that eventually comprised the entire flower. The same S. sclerotiorum isolates were inoculated in mature fruits of ‘Larry Ann’ Japanese plum, ‘Summer Bright’ nectarine, and ‘Staccato’ sweet cherry. Surface disinfected (1% NaOCl for 1 min) fruits were inoculated by placing a mycelium plug (4 mm in diameter) into a wound made with a sterile scalpel and incubated for 3 days at 20°C in humid chambers. Symptoms consisted on light brown soft lesions that varied from 8.7 to 46.5 mm in diameter. A superficial white and cottony septated mycelium was also obtained. An equal number of non-inoculated flowers and wounded but non-inoculated fruits remained healthy. S. sclerotiorum was re-isolated from 100% of the artificially inoculated flowers and fruits, completing Koch's postulates. S. sclerotiorum was reported causing shoot blight on apricot (P. armeniaca), lemon tree (Citrus limon), and table grapes (Vitis vinifera) in Chile (1,2), and to our knowledge, this is the first report of S. sclerotiorum associated with blossom blight in Japanese plum, nectarine, and sweet cherry in Chile.

References: (1) R. Acuña. Compendio de Bacterias y Hongos de Frutales y Vides en Chile. Servicio Agrícola y Ganadero, Santiago, Chile, 2010. (2) B. A. Latorre and M. J. Guerrero. Plant Dis. 85:1122, 2001. (3) T. J. White et al. Page 315 in: PCR Protocols: A Guide to Methods and Applications. M. A. Innis et al., eds. Academic Press, San Diego, CA, 1990.
Increasing similarity in the dynamics of influenza in two adjacent subtropical Chinese cities following the relaxation of border restrictions
Authors: Tan Yi , Lam Tommy Tsan-Yuk , Wu Chunli , Lee Shui-shan , Viboud Cécile , Zhang Renli , Weinberger Daniel M.
Published: December 2013

The drivers of influenza seasonality remain heavily debated, especially in tropical/subtropical regions where influenza activity can peak in winter, during the rainy season, or remain constant throughout the year. We compared the epidemiological and evolutionary patterns of seasonal influenza epidemics in Hong Kong and Shenzhen, two adjacent cities in subtropical southern China. This comparison represents a unique natural experiment, as connectivity between these two cities has increased over the past decade. We found that, whilst summer influenza epidemics in Shenzhen used to peak 1–3 months later than those in Hong Kong, the difference decreased after 2005 (P<0.0001). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that influenza isolates from Shenzhen have become genetically closer to those circulating in Hong Kong over time (P = 0.045). Furthermore, although Shenzhen isolates used to be more distant from the global putative source of influenza viruses than isolates from Hong Kong (P<0.001), this difference has narrowed (P = 0.02). Overall, our study reveals that influenza activities show remarkably distinct epidemiological and evolutionary patterns in adjacent subtropical cities and suggests that human mobility patterns can play a major role in influenza dynamics in the subtropics.
Species Delimitation using Genome-Wide SNP Data
Authors: Leaché Adam D. , Fujita Matthew K. , Minin Vladimir N. , Bouckaert Remco R.
Published: December 2013

The multi-species coalescent has provided important progress for evolutionary inferences, including increasing the statistical rigor and objectivity of comparisons among competing species delimitation models. However, Bayesian species delimitation methods typically require brute force integration over gene trees via Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC), which introduces a large computation burden and precludes their application to genomic-scale data. Here we combine a recently introduced dynamic programming algorithm for estimating species trees that bypasses MCMC integration over gene trees with sophisticated methods for estimating marginal likelihoods, needed for Bayesian model selection, to provide a rigorous and computationally tractable technique for genome-wide species delimitation. We provide a critical yet simple correction that brings the likelihoods of different species trees, and more importantly their corresponding marginal likelihoods, to the same common denominator, which enables direct and accurate comparisons of competing species delimitation models using Bayes factors. We test this approach, which we call Bayes factor delimitation (*with genomic data;BFD*), using common species delimitation scenarios with computer simulations. Varying the numbers of loci and the number of samples suggest that the approach can distinguish the true model even with few loci and limited samples per species. Misspecification of the prior for population sizeθhas little impact on support for the true model. We apply the approach to West African forest geckos (Hemidactylus fasciatuscomplex) using genome-wide SNP data data. This new Bayesian method for species delimitation builds on a growing trend for objective species delimitation methods with explicit model assumptions that are easily tested.
Depth-resolved grazing-incidence time-of-flight neutron scattering from a solid–liquid interface
Authors: Wolff M. , Herbel J. , Adlmann F. , Dennison A. J. C. , Liesche G. , Gutfreund P. , Rogers S.
Published: December 2013

Small-angle scattering in grazing-incidence beam geometry has been applied on a time-of-flight neutron instrument to investigate a solid–liquid boundary. Owing to the broad wavelength distribution provided for a specific incident beam angle, the penetration depth of the neutron beam is varied over a wide range in a single measurement. The near surface structures of block copolymer micelles close to silicon substrates with distinct surface energies are resolved. It is observed that the very near surface structure strongly depends on the surface coating, whereas further away from the surface, bulk-like ordering is found.
A one-dimensional coordination polymer formed from the reaction of 1,1-diphenyl-3,3′-[(1R,2R)-cyclohexane-1,2-diylbis(azanediyl)]dibut-2-en-1-one with MnCl2·4H2O
Authors: Zhang Qi-Long , Pan Lu-Tai
Published: December 2013

In the title coordination polymer,catena-poly[[dichloridomanganese(II)]-μ-1,1-diphenyl-3,3′-[(1R,2R)-cyclohexane-1,2-diylbis(azaniumylylidene)]dibut-1-en-1-olate-κ2O:O′], [MnCl2(C26H30N2)]n, synthesized by the reaction of the chiral Schiff base ligand 1,1-diphenyl-3,3′-[(1R,2R)-cyclohexane-1,2-diylbis(azanediyl)]dibut-2-en-1-one (L) with MnCl2·4H2O, the asymmetric unit contains one crystallographically unique MnIIion, one unique spacer ligand,L, and two chloride ions. Each MnIIion is four-coordinated in a distorted tetrahedral coordination environment by two O atoms from twoLligands and by two chloride ligands. The MnIIions are bridged byLligands to form a one-dimensional chain structure along theaaxis. The chloride ligands are monodentate (terminal). The ligand is in the zwitterionic enol form and displays intramolecular ionic N+—H...O−hydrogen bonding and π–π interactions between pairs of phenyl rings which strengthen the chains.
Inducible offences affect predator–prey interactions and life‐history plasticity in both predators and prey
Authors: Kishida Osamu , Costa Zacharia , Tezuka Ayumi , Michimae Hirofumi
Published: December 2013

Phenotypic plasticity can have strong impacts on predator–prey interactions. Although much work has examined the effects of inducible defences, less understood is how inducible offences in predators affect predator–prey interactions and predator and prey phenotypes.

Here, we examine the impacts of an inducible offence on the interactions and life histories of a cohort of predatory Hynobius retardatus salamander larvae and their prey, Rana pirica tadpoles. We examined larval (duration, survival) and post‐metamorphic (size) traits of both species after manipulating the presence/absence of tadpoles and salamanders with offensive (broadened gape width) or non‐offensive phenotypes in pond enclosures.

Offensive phenotype salamanders reduced tadpole survival and metamorph emergence by 58% compared to tadpole‐only treatments, and by over 30% compared to non‐offensive phenotypes. Average time to metamorphosis of frogs was delayed by 30% in the presence of salamanders, although this was independent of salamander phenotype. Thus, offensive phenotype salamanders reduced the number of tadpoles remaining in the pond over time by reducing tadpole survival, not by altering patterns of metamorph emergence. Offensive phenotypes also caused tadpoles to metamorphose 19% larger than no salamander treatments and 6% larger than non‐offensive phenotype treatments. Pooled across salamander treatments, tadpoles caused salamanders to reach metamorphosis faster and larger. Moreover, in the presence of tadpoles, offensive phenotype salamanders metamorphosed 25% faster and 5% larger than non‐offensive phenotype salamanders, but in their absence, neither their size nor larval period differed from non‐offensive phenotype individuals.

To our knowledge, this study is the first to demonstrate that inducible offences in predators can have strong impacts on predator and prey phenotypes across multiple life stages. Since early metamorphosis at a larger size has potential fitness advantages, the impacts of offensive phenotypes on frog and salamander life histories likely have significant consequences for individuals and populations. Furthermore, increased predation on tadpoles likely causes offensive phenotype individuals to have strong impacts on pond communities. Future studies should examine the fitness consequences of morphological and life‐history plasticity across multiple life stages and should address the population and community level consequences of offensive phenotypes.
Demotic or Demonic? Race, Class and Gender in ‘Gypsy’ Reality TV
Authors: Tremlett Annabel
Published: December 2013

An intriguing shift in the public interest of Roma, Gypsy and Traveller minorities has been the rise of the ‘Gypsy’ reality TV star in shows across Europe (‘Gypsy’ is the word most often used in popular media culture). The latest phenomenon to hit the UK has been the Channel 4 series Big Fat Gypsy Weddings (Firecracker Films, Channel 4, 2010–2013), a flamboyant production that has garnered both huge audience shares and fierce criticism, with commentators berating its narrow, sensationalist focus. Drawing on both specialized literature on Roma minorities and current sociological debates on reality TV formats, this article raises questions about how the politics of the ‘demotic turn’ of such formats (as noted by Turner in 2004) can lean towards the demonic through emphasizing such groups as spectacular, extraordinary and above all, negatively different. Furthermore, this article shows how the series not only reproduces old stereotypes of Gypsies and Travellers as different, ethnicized others but is also heavily embroiled in UK gender and class discourses. Whilst the series claims to be a unique insight into a marginalized community, this close analysis discusses the wider politics within which it is embedded and how such representations can both popularize and undermine marginalized or minority groups.
Educating the educators: developing those who support learning for students with additional learning needs
Authors: McLachlan Benita , Davis Geraldine
Published: December 2013

This article reports findings from a research project which developed and introduced the Enhanced Learning Support Assistant Programme (ELSAP) as a source of professional development for learning support assistants who were supporting students with additional learning needs in a college of further education in England. The purpose of this article is to share findings from the project and to highlight the benefits experienced when learning support assistants can participate in professional development activity. The research project was a mixed methods study with participants drawn from learning support assistants within one college of further education in England. Data were collected throughout the 14‐week intervention. Findings indicate that the programme had a positive effect on participants' confidence, sense of professional identify and of being valued, as well as improving their ability to perform their role.
Second‐trimester discordance and adverse perinatal outcome in twins: the STORK multiple pregnancy cohort
Authors: D'Antonio F , Khalil A , Thilaganathan B ,   on behalf of the Southwest Thames Obstetric Research Collaborative (STORK)
Published: December 2013

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the association between biometry discordance at the time of the anomaly scan and adverse perinatal outcomes in twin pregnancies.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Nine hospitals in the Southwest Thames Region of London Obstetric Research Collaborative (STORK).

Population or sample

Population multicentre retrospective study of all twin pregnancies booked for antenatal care in nine hospitals over a period of 10 years. Methods Logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were performed to evaluate the association between abdominal circumference (AC) and estimated fetal weight (EFW) discordance, recorded between 20 and 22 weeks of gestation, and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Main outcome measures

Stillbirth, neonatal mortality, preterm birth (PTB) at <34 weeks of gestation, and birthweight (BW) discordance ≥25%.

Results

A total of 2399 twin pregnancies [457 monochorionic (MC) and 1942 dichorionic (DC)] were included in the study. The predictive accuracy of the EFW discordance was poor for fetal loss after 22 weeks of gestation (area under the curve, AUC 0.54, 95% CI 0.46–0.64), fetal loss beyond 28 weeks of gestation (AUC 0.42, 95% CI 0.31–0.52), perinatal loss (AUC 0.51, 95% CI 0.44–0.57), BW discordance (AUC 0.63, 95% CI 0.56–0.65), and PTB before 34 weeks of gestation (AUC 0.52, 95% CI 0.49–0.55). There was no significant difference in the prediction of these outcomes when using EFW discordance or AC discordance.

Conclusions

Once structural malformations, chromosomal abnormalities, and twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome have been excluded, second‐trimester EFW and AC discordance have poor predictive value for adverse perinatal outcomes in twin pregnancy.
Associative Learning of Nasonia vitripennis Walker (Hymenoptera:Pteromalidae) to Methyldisulfanylmethane
Authors: Frederickx Christine , Verheggen François J. , Brostaux Yves , Haubruge Eric
Published: December 2013

Traditional methods of volatile detection used by police typically consist of reliance on canine olfaction. However, dogs have some limitations such as cost of training and time of conditioning. The possibility of using parasitic wasps for detecting explosives and narcotics has been developed. Moreover, wasps are cheap to produce and can be conditioned with impressive speed for a specific chemical detection task. We examined the ability of Nasonia vitripennis Walker to learn and respond to methyldisulfanylmethane (DMDS), a volatile discriminator of cadaver. The training aimed to form an association between an unconditioned stimulus (pupae) and the conditioned stimulus (odor source). After the training, the time spent by conditioned wasps in the DMDS chamber was measured. Statistical analysis showed that the increasing concentrations involved an increase in the time spent in the chamber containing DMDS. This study indicates that N. vitripennis can respond to DMDS, which provide further support for its development as a biological sensor.
Eye‐Catching Eyebrows: Training and Evaluating Humans for Periocular Image Verification
Authors: Hollingsworth Karen P.
Published: December 2013

High‐quality periocular images have sufficient variability between people that they can be used for automated recognition. However, there are no standards for training people to compare periocular images in a forensic context. Potential methods for training people to compare eyebrow images are investigated in this article. Pairs of images were presented to volunteers who decided whether the images showed the same person or different people. A control group with minimal instruction and no training responded with 87.6% accuracy. A second group viewed 100 training pairs before the test and achieved 94.2% accuracy. A third group rated specific features in the images and had 0.1% improvement over the second group. Experimental results show that actively comparing at least thirty training images and receiving immediate feedback improves trainees’ performance six to seven percent. If a quantitative quality score is needed, a linear combination of similarity ratings on different features may be used.
The Forensic Implications of Turner's Syndrome
Authors: Power Theresa , Langlois Neil E. I. , Byard Roger W.
Published: December 2013

Turner's syndrome, the most common sex chromosome disorder of females, is caused by complete or partial loss of one X chromosome and is associated with a wide range of internal and external manifestations and increased mortality rates (three to nine times the background population). While individuals with Turner's syndrome may survive for many decades, premature and unexpected deaths can occur that bring decedents to the attention of forensic examiners. Causes of death in Turner's syndrome are often linked to underlying cardiovascular conditions such as aortic dissection, congenital cardiovascular disease, ischemic heart, and cerebrovascular disease, but deaths due to noncardiac causes also occur with increased frequency. The latter include epilepsy, diabetes mellitus, chronic renal disease, pneumonia, chronic liver disease, and malignancy. Thus, the autopsy evaluation of these cases requires careful examination of all major organ systems, with the consideration of confirmatory cytogenetic testing.
Accuracy of Identifying Juvenile/Adult Status from Third Molar Development using Prediction Probabilities Derived from Logistic Regression Analysis
Authors: Acharya Ashith B. , Bhowmik Biyas , Naikmasur Venkatesh G.
Published: December 2013

The use of third molars in predicting juvenile/adult status (</≥ 18 years) has important legal ramifications. Third molar development was assessed using Köhler's grading on 268 orthopantomograms of Indian subjects. Logistic regression analysis was applied to determine allocation accuracy of juvenile/adult status and the level of probability that is “reliable” in predicting juvenile/adult status. Allocation accuracies ranged between 75.8% and 78.2% for the sexes combined, with minimal male‐female differences. Adults were categorized more accurately than juveniles, suggesting that Köhler's grading puts Indian juveniles at greater risk of unwarranted punishment. In both sexes, juvenile/adult status was “reliably” predicted when the probability was >80% using individual third molars (excepting the lower right third molar in males); combining upper and lower third molars on the left/right sides, “reliable” predictions were possible when the probability was >80% and >90% for females and males, respectively. Overall, “reliable” juvenile/adult status prediction was achieved in c. 36% of subjects.
Diversity of epothilone producers among Sorangium strains in producer‐positive soil habitats
Authors: Li Shu‐guang , Zhao Lin , Han Kui , Li Peng‐fei , Li Zhi‐feng , Hu Wei , Liu Hong , Wu Zhi‐hong , Li Yue‐zhong
Published: December 2013

Large‐scale surveys show that the anti‐tumour compounds known as epothilones are produced by only a small proportion of Sorangium strains, thereby greatly hampering the research and development of these valuable compounds. In this study, to investigate the niche diversity of epothilone‐producing Sorangium strains, we re‐surveyed four soil samples where epothilone producers were previously found. Compared with the < 2.5% positive strains collected from different places, epothilone producers comprised 25.0–75.0% of the Sorangium isolates in these four positive soil samples. These sympatric epothilone producers differed not only in their 16S rRNA gene sequences and morphologies but also in their production of epothilones and biosynthesis genes. A further exploration of 14 soil samples collected from a larger area around a positive site showed a similar high positive ratio of epothilone producers among the Sorangium isolates. The present results suggest that, in an area containing epothilone producers, the long‐term genetic variations and refinements resulting from selective pressure form a large reservoir of epothilone‐producing Sorangium strains with diverse genetic compositions.
Transcriptional profile of Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Weltevreden during alfalfa sprout colonization
Authors: Brankatschk Kerstin , Kamber Tim , Pothier Joël F. , Duffy Brion , Smits Theo H. M.
Published: December 2013

Sprouted seeds represent a great risk for infection by human enteric pathogens because of favourable growth conditions for pathogens during their germination. The aim of this study was to identify mechanisms of interactions of Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica Weltevreden with alfalfa sprouts. RNA‐seq analysis of S. Weltevreden grown with sprouts in comparison with M9‐glucose medium showed that among a total of 4158 annotated coding sequences, 177 genes (4.3%) and 345 genes (8.3%) were transcribed at higher levels with sprouts and in minimal medium respectively. Genes that were higher transcribed with sprouts are coding for proteins involved in mechanisms known to be important for attachment, motility and biofilm formation. Besides gene expression required for phenotypic adaption, genes involved in sulphate acquisition were higher transcribed, suggesting that the surface on alfalfa sprouts may be poor in sulphate. Genes encoding structural and effector proteins of Salmonella pathogenicity island 2, involved in survival within macrophages during infection of animal tissue, were higher transcribed with sprouts possibly as a response to environmental conditions. This study provides insight on additional mechanisms that may be important for pathogen interactions with sprouts.
A genome‐wide association study reveals a quantitative trait locus for age at first calving in delta/notch‐like EGF repeat containing on chromosome 2 in Japanese Black cattle
Authors: Sasaki Shinji , Ibi Takayuki , Ikeda Shogo , Sugimoto Yoshikazu
Published: December 2013

Age at first calving (AFC) is an important trait for achieving earlier reproductive performance in cattle. To identify quantitative trait loci for AFC in Japanese Black cattle, we conducted a genome‐wide association study using 866 animals with extreme AFC values selected from a larger group of 52 009 animals. We identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on bovine chromosome 2 that were associated with AFC. These SNPs were located within 112.8‐kbp intronic region of delta/notch‐like EGF repeat containing (DNER) and proved to be in a state of high linkage disequilibrium. The association was replicated in an independent sample of 2963 animals. In the replicated population, the frequency of the reduced AFC allele (Q) was 0.463, and the allele accounts for 8% of the total genetic variance. The effect of allele substitution on AFC was a decrease of 11.54 days. The results suggest that the Q allele could serve as a useful marker in Japanese Black cattle to select animals with superior AFC performance.
Von Willebrand Factor as a new marker for non‐invasive assessment of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Maieron A. , Salzl P. , Peck‐Radosavljevic M. , Trauner M. , Hametner S. , Schöfl R. , Ferenci P. , Ferlitsch M.
Published: December 2013

Background

Staging of liver fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) is recommended prior to anti‐viral therapy. As vWF‐Ag was shown as a predictor of portal hypertension, decompensation and mortality in patients with liver cirrhosis, we performed this study to investigate if vWF‐Ag is able to predict different fibrosis stages and if it is comparable to other fibrosis scores.

Aim

To investigate if vWF‐Ag is able to predict different fibrosis stages and if it is comparable to other fibrosis scores.

Methods

We analysed 294 patients with chronic hepatitis C who underwent biopsy. We assessed stage of liver fibrosis according to Metavir, measured vWF‐Ag and calculated different fibrosis scores (APRI, FCI, FORNS, FI, Fib‐4) and compared them by AUCs. We also calculated a new score: vWF‐Ag/thrombocytes (VITRO score) for prediction of fibrosis.

Results

vWF‐Ag levels were increasing with stage of fibrosis: F0: vWF‐Ag was median 136.5%, FI 140.6%, FII 157.5%, FIII 171.0%, FIV 252.0%; P < 0.001. vWF‐Ag and VITRO score produced AUCs of 0.7 and 0.72 for ≥F2, comparable to the AUCs of APRI, Fib‐4, FORNS with 0.75, 0.65 and 0.64 (P > 0.05). For ≥F3 AUCs were 0.79 and 0.86 for vWF‐Ag and VITRO score, comparable with AUCs of 0.79, 0.86 and 0.87 for APRI, Fib‐4 and FORNS. Cirrhosis shows AUCs of 0.84 and 0.89 for vWF‐Ag and VITRO score, APRI, Fib‐4 and FORNS showed similar results with AUCs of 0.82, 0.88 and 0.87.

Conclusions

vWF‐Ag and VITRO score offer an easy possibility to evaluate the stage of fibrosis to diagnose subclinical cirrhosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C. Both vWF‐Ag and VITRO score show equal performance in comparison to other fibrosis scores assessed in our study.
Characteristics of functional bowel disorder patients: a cross‐sectional survey using the Rome III criteria
Authors: Ford A. C. , Bercik P. , Morgan D. G. , Bolino C. , Pintos‐Sanchez M. I. , Moayyedi P.
Published: December 2013

Background

There is some evidence that, despite attempts to classify them separately, functional bowel disorders are not distinct entities and that such divisions are artificial.

Aim

To examine this issue in a large cohort of secondary care patients.

Methods

Consecutive, unselected adults with gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms attending out‐patient clinics at two hospitals in Hamilton, Ontario were recruited. Demographic data, symptoms and presence of anxiety, depression or somatisation were collected prospectively. We used validated questionnaires, including the Rome III questionnaire, with patients categorised as having irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional diarrhoea or chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC). We compared data between these disorders, and measured degree of overlap between them by suspending their mutual exclusivity.

Results

Of 3656 patients providing complete lower GI symptom data, 1551 (42.4%) met criteria for a functional bowel disorder. Diarrhoea‐predominant IBS (IBS‐D) patients were younger, and more were female, met criteria for anxiety, and reported somatisation‐type behaviour, compared with functional diarrhoea. Only loose, mushy or watery stools were more common in functional diarrhoea. When mutual exclusivity was suspended, overlap occurred in 27.6%. Constipation‐predominant IBS (IBS‐C) patients were younger, and more were female, had never married, reported anxiety type symptoms and exhibited somatisation‐type behaviour. One in five CIC patients reported abdominal pain or discomfort. All constipation symptoms were more common in IBS‐C. When the mutual exclusivity was suspended, overlap occurred in 18.1%.

Conclusions

There were significant differences in demographics between individuals with functional bowel disorders. Despite this, the Rome III classification system falls short of describing unique entities.
Systematic review with meta‐analysis: the association between human papillomavirus infection and oesophageal cancer
Authors: Li X. , Gao C. , Yang Y. , Zhou F. , Li M. , Jin Q. , Gao L.
Published: December 2013

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection might be one of the potential risk factors for oesophageal cancer. However, the previous epidemiological findings were heterogeneous.

Aim

To explore the association between HPV infection and oesophageal cancer risk by means of meta‐analysis.

Methods

Studies on HPV infection and oesophageal cancer were identified, the prevalence of HPV infection and its association with oesophageal cancer risk were quantitatively summarised by meta‐analysis.

Results

A total of 8990 oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) patients and 174 oesophageal adenocarcinomas patients were evaluated from 76 included studies. Summarised HPV prevalence in oesophageal SCC was 22.2% [95% confidence interval (CI), 18.3–26.7%], HPV‐16 was the most frequently observed subtype with a summarised prevalence of 11.4% (95% CI: 8.2–15.7%). With respect to oesophageal adenocarcinoma, HPV prevalence was 35.0% (95% CI, 13.2–65.7%) and HPV‐16 prevalence was 11.4% (95% CI: 8.2–15.7%). Due to the limited number of included studies on oesophageal adenocarcinoma, association analyses were performed to oesophageal SCC only. Significant association was observed between HPV infection and oesophageal SCC with a summarised odds ratio of 3.32 (95% CI, 2.26–4.87). According to HPV‐16, the strength of the association was found to be 3.52 (95% CI, 2.04–6.07).

Conclusions

Human papillomavirus infection was observed to be associated with an increased risk of oesophageal SCC in this meta‐analysis. However, due to the evident heterogeneity observed between the included studies and the strength of the association not as strong as observed for cervical cancer and laryngeal cancer, further studies are needed to clarify the relation and its underlying mechanisms.
Lactose intolerance in irritable bowel syndrome patients with diarrhoea: the roles of anxiety, activation of the innate mucosal immune system and visceral sensitivity
Authors: Yang J. , Fox M. , Cong Y. , Chu H. , Zheng X. , Long Y. , Fried M. , Dai N.
Published: December 2013

Background

Irritable bowel syndrome patients with diarrhoea (IBS‐D) often report intolerance to milk; however, the mechanism underlying these symptoms is unknown.

Aim

To assess the role of psychological factors, immune activation and visceral sensitivity on the development of lactose intolerance (LI) in IBS‐D patients.

Methods

Fifty‐five IBS‐D patients and 18 healthy controls (HCs) with lactase deficiency underwent a 20‐g lactose hydrogen breath test (LHBT). Patients were categorised as lactose malabsorption (LM; malabsorption only) or LI [malabsorption plus increase in total symptom score (TSS). Measurements included (i) psychological status; (ii) enteric biopsies with quantification of mast cells (MCs), T‐lymphocytes and enterochromaffin cells; (iii) serum cytokines; (iv) rectal sensitivity before and after lactose ingestion.

Results

LI was more prevalent in IBS‐D patients than HCs [25/55 (46%) vs. 3/18 (17%), P = 0.029]. IBS‐D patients with LI had (i) higher levels of anxiety than those with LM (P = 0.017) or HCs (P = 0.006); (ii) increased mucosal MCs compared with LM (P = 0.006) and HCs (P < 0.001); (iii) raised serum TNF‐α compared with LM (P = 0.034) and HCs (P < 0.001) and (iv) increased rectal sensitivity after lactose ingestion compared with LM (P < 0.001) or HCs (P < 0.001). Severity of abdominal symptoms after lactose ingestion was associated with the increase in visceral sensitivity after lactose intake (r = 0.629, P < 0.001), MCs (r = 0.650, P < 0.001) and anxiety (r = 0.519, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

IBS‐D patients with lactose intolerence are characterised by anxiety, mucosal immune activation and increased visceral sensitivity after lactose ingestion. The presence of these biomarkers may indicate an IBS phenotype that responds to dietary therapy and/or mast cell stabilisers (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01286597).
LE135, a retinoid acid receptor antagonist, produces pain through direct activation of TRP channels
Authors: Yin Shijin , Luo Jialie , Qian Aihua , Yu Weihua , Hu Hongzhen
Published: December 2013

Background and Purpose

Retinoids, through their activation of retinoic acid receptors (RARs) and retinoid X receptors, regulate diverse cellular processes, and pharmacological intervention in their actions has been successful in the treatment of skin disorders and cancers. Despite the many beneficial effects, administration of retinoids causes irritating side effects with unknown mechanisms. Here, we demonstrate that LE135 [4‐(7,8,9,10‐tetrahydro‐5,7,7,10,10‐pentamethyl‐5H‐benzo[e]naphtho[2,3‐b][1,4]diazepin‐13‐yl)benzoic acid], a selective antagonist of RARβ, is a potent activator of the capsaicin (TRPV1) and wasabi (TRPA1) receptors, two critical pain‐initiating cation channels.

Experimental Approach

We performed to investigate the excitatory effects of LE135 on TRPV1 and TRPA1 channels expressed in HEK293T cells and in dorsal root ganglia neurons with calcium imaging and patch‐clamp recordings. We also used site‐directed mutagenesis of the channels to determine the structural basis of LE135‐induced activation of TRPV1 and TRPA1 channels and behavioural testing to examine if pharmacological inhibition and genetic deletion of the channels affected LE135‐evoked pain‐related behaviours.

Key Results

LE135 activated both the capsaicin receptor (TRPV1) and the allyl isothiocyanate receptor (TRPA1) heterologously expressed in HEK293T cells and endogenously expressed by sensory nociceptors. Mutations disrupting the capsaicin‐binding site attenuated LE135 activation of TRPV1 channels and a single mutation (K170R) eliminated TRPA1 activity evoked by LE135. Intraplantar injection of LE135 evoked pain‐related behaviours. Both TRPV1 and TRPA1 channels were involved in LE135‐elicited pain‐related responses, as shown by pharmacological and genetic ablation studies.

Conclusions and Implications

This blocker of retinoid acid signalling also exerted non‐genomic effects through activating the pain‐initiating TRPV1 and TRPA1 channels.
Anti‐inflammatory effects of cannabinoid CB2 receptor activation in endotoxin‐induced uveitis
Authors: Toguri J T , Lehmann C , Laprairie R B , Szczesniak A M , Zhou J , Denovan‐Wright E M , Kelly M E M
Published: December 2013

Background and Purpose

Cannabinoid CB2 receptors mediate immunomodulation. Here, we investigated the effects of CB2 receptor ligands on leukocyte‐endothelial adhesion and inflammatory mediator release in experimental endotoxin‐induced uveitis (EIU).

Experimental Approach

EIU was induced by intraocular injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 20 ng·μL−1). Effects of the CB2 receptor agonist, HU308 (1.5% topical), the CB2 receptor antagonist, AM630 (2.5 mg·kg−1 i.v.), or a combination of both compounds on leukocyte‐endothelial interactions were measured hourly for 6 h in rat iridial vasculature using intravital microscopy. Anti‐inflammatory actions of HU308 were compared with those of clinical treatments for uveitis ‐ dexamethasone, prednisolone and nepafenac. Transcription factors (NF‐κB, AP‐1) and inflammatory mediators (cytokines, chemokines and adhesion molecules) were measured in iris and ciliary body tissue.

Key Results

Leukocyte‐endothelium adherence was increased in iridial microvasculature between 4–6 h after LPS. HU308 reduced this effect after LPS injection and decreased pro‐inflammatory mediators: TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6, CCL5 and CXCL2. AM630 blocked the actions of HU‐308, and increased leukocyte‐endothelium adhesion. HU‐308 decreased levels of the transcription factors NF‐κB and AP‐1, while AM630 increased levels of NF‐κB. Topical treatments with dexamethasone, prednisolone or nepafenac, failed to alter leukocyte adhesion or mitigate LPS‐induced increases in inflammatory mediators during the 6 h of EIU.

Conclusion and Implications

Activation of CB2 receptors was anti‐inflammatory in a model of acute EIU and involved a reduction in NF‐κB, AP‐1 and inflammatory mediators. CB2 receptors may be promising drug targets for the development of novel ocular anti‐inflammatory agents.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Cannabinoids 2013. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2014.171.issue‐6
Heterologous regulation of agonist‐independent μ‐opioid receptor phosphorylation by protein kinase C
Authors: Illing Susann , Mann Anika , Schulz Stefan
Published: December 2013

Background and Purpose

Homologous agonist‐induced phosphorylation of the μ‐opioid receptor (MOR) is initiated at the carboxyl‐terminal S375, followed by phosphorylation of T370, T376 and T379. In HEK293 cells, this sequential and hierarchical multi‐site phosphorylation is specifically mediated by G‐protein coupled receptor kinases 2 and 3. In the present study, we provide evidence for a selective and dose‐dependent phosphorylation of T370 after activation of PKC by phorbol esters.

Experimental Approach

We used a combination of phospho site‐specific antibodies, kinase inhibitors and siRNA knockdown screening to identify kinases that mediate agonist‐independent phosphorylation of the MOR in HEK293 cells. In addition, we show with phospho site‐specific antibodies were also used to study constitutive phosphorylation at S363 of MORs in mouse brain in vivo.

Key Results

Activation of PKC by phorbol esters or heterologous activation of substance P receptors co‐expressed with MORs in the same cell induced a selective and dose‐dependent phosphorylation of T370 that specifically requires the PKCα isoform. Inhibition of PKC activity did not compromise homologous agonist‐driven T370 phosphorylation. In addition, S363 was constitutively phosphorylated in both HEK293 cells and mouse brain in vivo. Constitutive S363 phosphorylation required ongoing PKC activity. When basal PKC activity was decreased, S363 was also a substrate for homologous agonist‐stimulated phosphorylation.

Conclusions and Implications

Our results have disclosed novel mechanisms of heterologous regulation of MOR phosphorylation by PKC. These findings represent a useful starting point for definitive experiments elucidating the exact contribution of PKC‐driven MOR phosphorylation to diminished MOR responsiveness in morphine tolerance and pathological pain.