bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Probiotics as functional foods: gut colonization and safety concerns
Authors: Sarkar S.
Published: August 2013

Purpose

Early colonization and balance between the beneficial and pathogenic organisms are essential for good nutrition and health. Ability of probiotic cultures to survive and colonize under the intestinal environmental condition led to their application as functional foods. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

Endeavour has been made to explore the mechanism of gut colonization, selection criteria for probiotic cultures, mechanism of probiotic action, postulated health benefits and prerequisites of a probiotics food.

Findings

Probiotic organisms influence the physiological and pathological process of the host by modifying the intestinal microbiota, thereby affecting human health. Postulated health beneficial properties of probiotics suggest their application as functional foods.

Originality/value

Ingestion of cultured milk products containing probiotic cultures may provide health benefits in terms of colonization and normalization of intestinal flora and could be recommended for consumption as functional foods.
Understanding Urban Processes in Flint, Michigan: Approaching ‘Subaltern Urbanism’ Inductively
Authors: Schindler Seth
Published: August 2013

Ananya Roy introduces the concept ‘subaltern urbanism’ in her 2011 article ‘Slumdog Cities: Rethinking Subaltern Urbanism’. She challenges researchers to move beyond existing epistemological and methodological limits, and offers four concepts which, taken together, serve as a useful starting point for understanding and representing subaltern urban space. In this article I argue that instead of a deductive approach that begins with an a priori identification of slums as subaltern urban space, an inductive approach of identifying subaltern urban space would expand the concept and show that subaltern urbanism exists in the global North. I present original research to show that Flint, Michigan, can be considered subaltern urban space. In the final section of the article I argue that this inductive approach to subaltern urbanism can foster comparative research across the North‐South divide, and generate the transfer of knowledge from South to North.
MRI scans significantly change target coverage decisions in radical radiotherapy for prostate cancer
Authors: Chang Joe H. , Lim Joon Daryl , Nguyen Brandon T. , Hiew Chee‐Yan , Esler Stephen , Angus David , Chao Michael , Wada Morikatsu , Quong George , Khoo Vincent
Published: August 2013

Introduction

Conventional clinical staging for prostate cancer has many limitations. This study evaluates the impact of adding MRI scans to conventional clinical staging for guiding decisions about radiotherapy target coverage.

Methods

This was a retrospective review of 115 patients who were treated between February 2002 and September 2005 with radical radiotherapy for prostate cancer. All patients had MRI scans approximately 2 weeks before the initiation of radiotherapy. The T stage was assessed by both conventional clinical methods (cT‐staging) as well as by MRI (mT‐staging). The radiotherapy target volumes were determined first based on cT‐staging and then taking the additional mT staging into account. The number of times extracapsular extension or seminal vesicle invasion was incorporated into target volumes was quantified based on both cT‐staging and the additional mT‐staging.

Results

Extracapsular extension was incorporated into target volumes significantly more often with the addition of mT‐staging (46 patients (40%) ) compared with cT‐staging alone (37 patients (32%) ) (P = 0.002). Seminal vesicle invasion was incorporated into target volumes significantly more often with the addition of mT‐staging (21 patients (18%) ) compared with cT‐staging alone (three patients (3%) ) (P < 0.001). A total of 23 patients (20%) had changes to their target coverage based on the mT‐staging.

Conclusions

MRI scans can significantly change decisions about target coverage in radical radiotherapy for prostate cancer.
Multiple marker effects of single nucleotide polymorphisms in three genes, AKIRIN2, EDG1 and RPL27A, for marbling development in Japanese Black cattle
Authors: Sukegawa Shin , Miyake Takeshi , Ibi Takayuki , Takahagi Yoichi , Murakami Hiroshi , Morimatsu Fumiki , Yamada Takahisa
Published: August 2013

Marbling in beef, measured by Beef Marbling Standard (BMS) number, is an economically important trait for beef cattle breeding and markets in Japan. We previously detected three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with BMS number of Japanese Black in Oita prefecture: c.*188G>A in AKIRIN2, g.1471620G>T in EDG1 and g.3109537C>T in RPL27A. Here, we carried out single and multiple marker association analyses for the three SNPs in a different commercial Japanese Black population of 892 genotyped animals. The single marker analyses with the model including a single SNP showed significant associations of all SNPs with BMS number. The multiple marker analysis with the model including the main effects of the three SNPs and their interactions detected only significant main effects of g.1471620G>T and g.3109537C>T and a significant interaction between c.*188G>A and g.1471620G>T. These findings suggest the presence of inter‐allelic interactions among genes affecting the development of beef marbling. For effective marker‐assisted selection for BMS number, interactions among these markers need to be considered.
Role of Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries in Snow Leopard Conservation
Authors: LI JUAN , WANG DAJUN , YIN HANG , ZHAXI DUOJIE , JIAGONG ZHALA , SCHALLER GEORGE B. , MISHRA CHARUDUTT , MCCARTHY THOMAS M. , WANG HAO , WU LAN , XIAO LINGYUN , BASANG LAMAO , ZHANG YUGUANG , ZHOU YUNYUN , LU ZHI
Published: August 2013

The snow leopard (Panthera uncia) inhabits the rugged mountains in 12 countries of Central Asia, including the Tibetan Plateau. Due to poaching, decreased abundance of prey, and habitat degradation, it was listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature in 1972. Current conservation strategies, including nature reserves and incentive programs, have limited capacities to protect snow leopards. We investigated the role of Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in snow leopard conservation in the Sanjiangyuan region in China's Qinghai Province on the Tibetan Plateau. From 2009 to 2011, we systematically surveyed snow leopards in the Sanjiangyuan region. We used the MaxEnt model to determine the relation of their presence to environmental variables (e.g., elevation, ruggedness) and to predict snow leopard distribution. Model results showed 89,602 km2 of snow leopard habitat in the Sanjiangyuan region, of which 7674 km2 lay within Sanjiangyuan Nature Reserve's core zones. We analyzed the spatial relation between snow leopard habitat and Buddhist monasteries and found that 46% of monasteries were located in snow leopard habitat and 90% were within 5 km of snow leopard habitat. The 336 monasteries in the Sanjiangyuan region could protect more snow leopard habitat (8342 km2) through social norms and active patrols than the nature reserve's core zones. We conducted 144 household interviews to identify local herders’ attitudes and behavior toward snow leopards and other wildlife. Most local herders claimed that they did not kill wildlife, and 42% said they did not kill wildlife because it was a sin in Buddhism. Our results indicate monasteries play an important role in snow leopard conservation. Monastery‐based snow leopard conservation could be extended to other Tibetan Buddhist regions that in total would encompass about 80% of the global range of snow leopards.

Papel de los Monasterios Budistas Tibetanos en la Conservación del Leopardo de las Nieves
Class-Biased Electoral Participation: The Youth Vote in Chile
Authors: Corvalan Alejandro , Cox Paulo
Published: August 2013

There is no other country where the division between the old and young electorate is as striking as in Chile. For older voters, turnout exceeded, on average, 90 percent in 2009; for those aged less than 30, it fell below 30 percent. Using individual survey data from 2006, 2008, and 2010, this article studies the current socioeconomic composition of the Chilean young electorate. First, it shows that the young electorate is class-biased. Income is highly correlated with both registration and turnout even after controlling for education. Second, it presents evidence that class bias for the whole electorate has been increasing over time, due to generational replacement. The results are not promising for Chile’s democracy in the years to come, since equal participation is worsening over time.
Preparation of Na‐P1‐Type Zeolite and its Composite Material with Nanosized Magnetite
Authors: Aono Hiromichi , Tamura Kazumasa , Johan Erni , Yamamoto Toru , Matsue Naoto , Henmi Teruo
Published: August 2013

The Na‐P1‐type zeolite having a high cation‐exchange capacity (CEC) was obtained using the waste coal fly ash from thermal power stations and a 2M NaOH solution at 100°C. The Na‐P1‐type zeolite was formed with the reaction time of 6 h at 100°C, and its CEC value increased with an increase in the reaction time. The addition of a suitable amount of NaAlO2 to the fly ash was also effective for improving the CEC value. A new composite material consisting of the Na‐P1‐type zeolite and magnetite was synthesized from the fly ash and iron chlorides because the magnetic collection was possible using this composite material after radioactive Cs+ ion adsorption. The existence of nanosized magnetites in the polycrystalline zeolite (several micrometers) was confirmed by TEM observations. The CEC and magnetic property of these composite materials were characterized.
Fire regimes and woody biomass dynamics in Australian savannas
Authors: Murphy Brett P. , Lehmann Caroline E. R. , Russell‐Smith Jeremy , Lawes Michael J.
Published: August 2013

Aim

Many tropical savannas are undergoing a trend of increasing woody biomass, or ‘woody thickening’. Management to reduce fire frequency and intensity in savannas could substantially increase the amount of carbon stored in woody biomass. We addressed two questions: (1) are northern Australian savannas thickening; and (2) to what extent, and by what demographic processes, does fire affect woody biomass accumulation?

Location

Three large national parks, covering 24,000 km2, in monsoonal northern Australia.

Methods

We examined changes in woody biomass carbon stocks – inferred from tree basal area and the density of woody understorey plants – over a 10‐year period in 136 savanna monitoring plots. We statistically assessed these changes in relation to fire frequency and severity. We used a meta‐analysis to identify general trends in woody cover in Australian savannas over the last half‐century.

Results

Woody biomass carbon stocks were relatively stable across the three national parks, but rates of change were statistically indistinguishable from earlier findings of a weak thickening trend. Change was negatively correlated with fire frequency, particularly the frequency of severe fires. High frequencies of severe fires decreased rates of accumulation of biomass by existing trees (through reductions in tree growth and death of individual stems), rather than whole‐tree mortality and suppression of recruitment. However, across northern Australia, our meta‐analysis identified a general, albeit weak, trend of woody thickening.

Main conclusions

The drivers of northern Australia's weak thickening trend are uncertain, but likely candidates include increasing atmospheric CO2 concentration and water availability, and pastoral intensification. We demonstrate that changes to fire management have the potential to either increase or decrease rates of woody thickening relative to any underlying trend. Understanding how savanna fires affect woody biomass, and how fire effects are mediated by climate and CO2, are essential research priorities to predict the fate of savannas.
Membranes over the lateral window in sinus augmentation procedures: a two‐arm and split‐mouth randomized clinical trials
Authors: Torres García‐Denche Jesús , Wu Xixi , Martinez Pedro‐Pablo , Eimar Hazem , Ikbal Daher Jalil‐Abumalham , Hernández Gonzalo , López‐Cabarcos Enrique , Fernandez‐Tresguerres Isabel , Tamimi Faleh
Published: August 2013

Objective

This study evaluates whether or not, among other factors, membrane‐coverage of antrostomy defects improves implant survival in sinus augmentation procedures.

Materials and Methods

We performed a two‐arm and split‐mouth randomized controlled clinical trial on 104 and 5 patients respectively. In the two‐arm study, antrostomy defects were membrane‐covered in 66 procedures and uncovered in 69, before placing a total of 265 implants that were followed up for 1 year. In the split‐mouth study, following bilateral sinus augmentation, antrostomy defects were membrane‐covered on one side and left uncovered on the contra‐lateral. Bone biopsies from each sinus were histologically analysed 6 months later.

Results

In the two‐arm study, implant survival rates were similar (p = 0.08) in the membrane‐covered (96.1%) and uncovered (94.2%) groups. In the split‐mouth study, bone augmentation was similar in both groups (p = 0.52). Delayed implant placement (p = 0.04), thick Schneider's membrane (≥2 mm) (p < 0.01), treatment for hypertension (p = 0.04) and non‐smoking (p = 0.01) seemed to be associated with lower risk of implant failure.

Conclusions

Implant survival in sinus lifting procedures could be influenced significantly by timing of implant placement, Schneider's membrane thickness, antihypertensive treatment and smoking habits, but not by antrostomy membrane coverage.
Effects of interocclusal distance on bite force and masseter EMG in healthy participants
Authors: Arima T. , Takeuchi T. , Honda K. , Tomonaga A. , Tanosoto T. , Ohata N. , Svensson P.
Published: August 2013

The aim of this study was to investigate effects of interocclusal distance (IOD) on bite force and masseter electromyographic (EMG) activity during different isometric contraction tasks. Thirty‐one healthy participants (14 women and 17 men, 21·2 ± 1·8 years) were recruited. Maximal Voluntary Occlusal Bite Force (MVOBF) between the first molars and masseter EMG activity during all the isometric‐biting tasks were measured. The participants were asked to bite at submaximal levels of 20%, 40%, 60% and 80% MVOBF with the use of visual feedback. The thickness of the force transducer was set at 8, 12, 16 and 20 mm (= IOD), and sides were tested in random sequence. MVOBF was significantly higher at 8 mm compared with all other IODs (P < 0·001). Only in women, IOD always had significant influence on the corresponding root‐mean‐square (RMS) value of EMG (P < 0·011). When biting was performed on the ipsilateral side to the dominant hand, the working side consistently showed higher masseter EMG activity compared with the balancing side (P < 0·020). On the contralateral side, there was no difference between the masseter EMG at any IODs. The results replicated the finding that higher occlusal forces can be generated between the first molars at shorter IODs. The new finding in this study was that an effect of hand dominance could be found on masseter muscle activity during isometric biting. This may suggest that there can be a general dominant side effect on human jaw muscles possibly reflecting differences in motor unit recruitment strategies.
Southern montane populations did not contribute to the recolonization of West Siberian Plain by Siberian larch (Larix sibirica): a range‐wide analysis of cytoplasmic markers
Authors: Semerikov Vladimir L. , Semerikova Svetlana A. , Polezhaeva Maria A. , Kosintsev Pavel A. , Lascoux Martin
Published: August 2013

While many species were confined to southern latitudes during the last glaciations, there has lately been mounting evidence that some of the most cold‐tolerant species were actually able to survive close to the ice sheets. The contribution of these higher latitude outposts to the main recolonization thrust remains, however, untested. In the present study, we use the first range‐wide survey of genetic diversity at cytoplasmic markers in Siberian larch (Larix sibirica; four mitochondrial (mt) DNA loci and five chloroplast (cp) DNA SSR loci) to (i) assess the relative contributions of southern and central areas to the current L. sibirica distribution range; and (ii) date the last major population expansion in both L. sibirica and adjacent Larix species. The geographic distribution of cpDNA variation was uninformative, but that of mitotypes clearly indicates that the southernmost populations, located in Mongolia and the Tien‐Shan and Sayan Mountain ranges, had a very limited contribution to the current populations of the central and northern parts of the range. It also suggests that the contribution of the high latitude cryptic refugia was geographically limited and that most of the current West Siberian Plain larch populations likely originated in the foothills of the Sayan Mountains. Interestingly, the main population expansion detected through Approximate Bayesian Computation (ABC) in all four larch species investigated here pre‐dates the LGM, with a mode in a range of 220 000–1 340 000 years BP. Hence, L. sibirica, like other major conifer species of the boreal forest, was strongly affected by climatic events pre‐dating the Last Glacial Maximum.
The Impact of Transvenous Lead Extraction on Tricuspid Valve Function
Authors: COFFEY JAMES O. , SAGER SOLOMON J. , GANGIREDDY SANDEEP , LEVINE AVI , VILES‐GONZALEZ JUAN F. , FISCHER AVI
Published: August 2013

Background

Few data exist regarding the effect of transvenous lead extraction (TLE) on tricuspid valve function. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of TLE on the development of postprocedure tricuspid regurgitation (TR).

Objective

To assess the impact of TLE on tricuspid valve function.

Methods

A single center retrospective analysis of consecutive patients referred for TLE between June 2006 and November 2011. Patients were included only if they underwent transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) before and after lead extraction (N = 124). Patients were assigned a preprocedure and postprocedure TR score on a continuous scale from 0 to 6 (0 = none, 1 = trace, 2 = mild, 3 = mild/moderate, 4 = moderate, 5 = moderate/severe, and 6 = severe). A clinically significant increase in TR was defined as both (1) an increase in TR score of at least two points, and (2) a postprocedure TR score ≥4 (moderate).

Results

A total of 124 patients referred for TLE underwent a TTE both before (9 ±16 months) and after lead extraction (4 ± 8 months). A total of 200 leads (1.6 ± 0.8 per patient) were extracted. The mean change in TR score after lead extraction was +0.18 (95% confidence interval [CI] −0.03 to 0.39, P = 0.11). A clinically significant increase in TR occurred in 7/124 (5.6% [CI 2.3–11.3%]) patients. Age ≥75 (+0.45, [CI 0.07–0.84, P = 0.02]), removal of ≥2 leads (+0.40 [CI 0–0.81, P = 0.05]), and powered sheath‐assisted extraction (+0.34 [CI 0.05–0.62, P = 0.02]) were significantly associated with an increase in TR score.

Conclusion

TLE is rarely associated with the development of clinically significant TR. In our cohort, patient age ≥75 years, pacemaker as opposed to ICD, and removal of ≥2 leads predicted worsening TR.
Immersive Simulation Education: A Novel Approach to Pandemic Preparedness and Response
Authors: Rega Paul P. , Fink Brian N.
Published: August 2013

Pandemic management involves strategic and tactical concepts rarely experienced with other disasters. To comprehend the enormity of these tasks and experience the critical decision‐making required, local public health and other stakeholders participate in tabletop and functional exercises. Students in Master of Public Health (MPH) programs not only rarely experience this educational format, but also are seldom afforded substantive time to appreciate the critical decision making that is unique to pandemics. An immersive semester‐long simulation exercise was created to educate graduate public health students about pandemics. Students in a MPH course were divided into groups representing county health departments. During the semester, students collaborated and completed incident command training, received audio lectures, and materials concerning an imminent pandemic. The students then participated in the 2.5‐hr facilitated tabletop exercises in the classroom. A survey was developed to assess their perceptions of the experience. Most students felt more knowledgeable afterward and thought that this training style was innovative, entertaining, educational, and recommended it to fellow students and colleagues. The students believed that delivering a tabletop exercise in this fashion was educational and entertaining. It gave the students a better appreciation of the role of public health in managing the complexities associated with pandemics.
Optimal immunity meets natural variation: the evolutionary biology of host defence
Authors: Graham A. L.
Published: August 2013

This editorial introduces the seven articles that comprise the Parasite Immunology special issue on the Evolutionary Biology of Host Defence. The rationale for an evolutionary approach to immunoparasitology is briefly outlined, and then the articles are placed in that broader context. A central aim of each article is to explain the generation and maintenance of immunological heterogeneity among hosts in nature. The authors describe new tools and approaches that enable unprecedented insight into evolutionary and immunological processes in both the laboratory and the wild. The examples discussed include insects, birds and mammals (as hosts) and trypanosomes, apicomplexans and nematodes (as parasites).
The effects of performance‐based rewards on neurophysiological correlates of stimulus, error, and feedback processing in children with ADHD
Authors: Rosch Keri Shiels , Hawk Larry W.
Published: August 2013

Rewards have been shown to improve behavior and cognitive processes implicated in attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but the information‐processing mechanisms by which these improvements occur remain unclear. We examined the effect of performance‐based rewards on ERPs related to processing of the primary task stimuli, errors, and feedback in children with ADHD and typically developing controls. Participants completed a flanker task containing blocks with and without performance‐based rewards. Children with ADHD showed reduced amplitude of ERPs associated with processing of the flanker stimuli (P3) and errors (ERN, Pe), but did not differ in feedback‐processing (FRN). Rewards enhanced flanker‐related P3 amplitude similarly across groups and error‐related Pe amplitude differentially for children with ADHD. These findings suggest that rewards may improve cognitive deficits in children with ADHD through enhanced processing of relevant stimuli and increased error evaluation.
Cyclic Constraint Analysis for Attitude Synchronization of Networked Spacecraft Agents
Authors: Wang Hanlei , Xie Yongchun
Published: August 2013

In this paper, we investigate the attitude synchronization problem for multiple networked spacecraft, and the spacecraft agents are assumed to interact on an undirected and connected graph. We adopt a physically motivated PD-like attitude consensus scheme which takes Euler parameters or quaternions of the error orientation matrix between the spacecraft agents as the attitude deviation, resulting in nonlinear attitude coupling among the networked spacecraft agents and additionally multiple equilibria of the closed-loop networked system. The stability of the closed-loop networked system is shown by the Lyapunov stability analysis. To show the convergence of the attitude synchronization errors, we develop a new tool called cyclic constraint analysis. With this synthesis tool, we show that attitude synchronization is achieved without relying on any assumptions of the spacecraft orientations. Simulation study is presented to shed some light on the obtained results.
Modeling of Abradable Coating Removal in Aircraft Engines Through Delay Differential Equations
Authors: Salvat Nicolas , Batailly Alain , Legrand Mathias
Published: August 2013

In modern turbomachinery, abradable materials are implemented on casings to reduce operating tip clearances and mitigate direct unilateral contact occurrences between rotating and stationary components. However, both experimental and numerical investigations revealed that blade/abradable interactions may lead to blade failures. In order to comprehend the underlying mechanism, an accurate modeling of the abradable removal process is required. Time-marching strategies where the abradable removal is modeled through plasticity are available but another angle of attack is proposed in this work. It is assumed that the removal of abradable liners shares similarities with machine tool chatter encountered in manufacturing. Chatter is a self-excited vibration caused by the interaction between the machine and the workpiece through the cutting forces and the corresponding dynamics are efficiently captured by delay differential equations. These equations differ from ordinary differential equations in the sense that previous states of the system are involved in the formulation. This mathematical framework is employed here for the exploration of the blade stability during abradable removal. The proposed tool advantageously features a reduced computational cost and consistency with existing time-marching solution methods. Potentially dangerous interaction regimes are accurately predicted and instability lobes match both the flexural and torsional modal responses. Essentially, the regenerative nature of chatter in machining processes can also be attributed to abradable coating removal in turbomachinery.
Effect of Nanosecond Repetitively Pulsed Discharges on the Dynamics of a Swirl-Stabilized Lean Premixed Flame
Authors: Lacoste D. A. , Moeck J. P. , Durox D. , Laux C. O. , Schuller T.
Published: August 2013

The effects of nanosecond repetitively pulsed (NRP) plasma discharges on the dynamics of a swirl-stabilized lean premixed flame are experimentally investigated. Voltage pulses of 8 kV in amplitude and 10 ns in duration are applied at a repetition rate of 30 kHz. The average electric power deposited by the plasma is limited to 40 W, corresponding to less than 1% of the thermal power of 4 kW released by the flame. The investigation is carried out with a dedicated experimental setup that allows for studies of the flame dynamics with applied plasma discharges. A loudspeaker is used to acoustically perturb the flame and the discharges are generated between a central pin electrode and the rim of the injection tube. The velocity and CH* chemiluminescence signals are used to determine the flame transfer function, assuming that plasma discharges do not affect the correlation between the CH* emission and heat release rate fluctuations. Phase-locked images of the CH* emission show a strong influence of the NRP discharges on the flame response to acoustic perturbations, thus opening interesting perspectives for combustion control. An interpretation of the modifications observed in the transfer function of the flame is proposed by taking into account the thermal and chemical effects of the discharges. It is then demonstrated that by applying NRP discharges at unstable conditions, the oscillation amplitudes can be reduced by an order of magnitude, thus effectively stabilizing the system.
Special Challenges in the Computational Fluid Dynamics Modeling of Transonic Turbo-Expanders
Authors: Rubechini Filippo , Marconcini Michele , Arnone Andrea , Scotti Del Greco Alberto , Biagi Roberto
Published: August 2013

High pressure ratio turbo-expanders often put a strain on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling. First of all, the working fluid is usually characterized by significant departures from the ideal behavior, thus requiring the adoption of a reliable real gas model. Moreover, supersonic flow conditions are typically reached at the nozzle vanes discharge, thus involving the formation of a shock pattern, which is in turn responsible for a strong unsteady interaction with the wheel blades. Under such circumstances, performance predictions based on classical perfect gas, steady-state calculations can be very poor. While reasonably accurate real gas models are nowadays available in most flow solvers, unsteady real gas calculations still struggle to become an affordable tool for investigating turbo-expanders. However, it is emphasized in this work how essential the adoption of a time-accurate analysis can be for accurate performance estimations. The present paper is divided in two parts. In the first part, the computational framework is validated against on-site measured performance from an existing power plant equipped with a variable-geometry nozzled turbo-expander, for different nozzle positions, and in design and off-design conditions. The second part of the paper is devoted to the detailed discussion of the unsteady interaction between the nozzle shock waves and the wheel flow field. Furthermore, an attempt is made to identify the key factors responsible for the unsteady interaction and to outline an effective way to reduce it.
Adaptive fast marching method for automatic liver segmentation from CT images
Authors: Song Xiao , Cheng Ming , Wang Boliang , Huang Shaohui , Huang Xiaoyang , Yang Jinzhu
Published: August 2013

Purpose:

Liver segmentation is a fundamental step in computer‐aided liver disease diagnosis and surgery planning. For the sake of high accuracy and efficiency, in this study, the authors present an automatic seed point selection method and an adaptive fast marching method (FMM) for liver segmentation.

Methods:

The automatic seed point selection method is according to the structure and intensity characteristics of liver. The proposed adaptive FMM is self‐adaptive parameter adjustment. The arrival time parameterT in FMM is adjusted according to the intensity statistics of the possible liver region, which can be used to estimate the size of liver region on the corresponding computed tomography (CT) slices. The proposed algorithm consists of the following steps. First, a thresholding operation was applied to remove the ribs, spines, and kidneys, followed by a smooth filter for noise reduction and a nonlinear gray scale converter, which was used to enhance the contrast of the liver parenchyma. Second, the seed points located in the liver were selected automatically. Finally, using the processed image as a speed function, adaptive FMM was employed to generate the liver contour.

Results:

Clinical validation has been performed on 30 abdominal CT data‐sets. The proposed algorithm achieved an overall true positive rate of 98.7%, false negative rate of 1.6%, false positive rate of 5.2%, and the DICE coefficient of 96.7%. It takes about 0.30s for a 512 × 512‐pixel slice.

Conclusions:

The method has been applied successfully to achieve fast and accurate liver segmentation.
Pivotal Roles of cGAS-cGAMP Signaling in Antiviral Defense and Immune Adjuvant Effects
Authors: Li Xiao-Dong , Wu Jiaxi , Gao Daxing , Wang Hua , Sun Lijun , Chen Zhijian J.
Published: August 2013

Alarm Bells

The presence of DNA in the cytosol of mammalian cells is a danger signal, indicating, for example, that a DNA-containing virus has infected the cell. This signal triggers an innate immune response, which involves the expression of type I interferons, and is critical for antiviral immunity and responses to DNA vaccines. Cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) was recently identified as a sensor of cytosolic DNA.

Li
et al.

(p.
1390
, published online 29 August) now use knockout mice to provide genetic evidence that, in multiple cell types, cGAS is the primary DNA sensor required for the type I interferon response in vivo.
Draft Genome Sequence of Mycobacterium massiliense Strain M159, Showing Phenotypic Resistance to β-Lactam and Tetracycline Antibiotics
Authors: Ngeow Yun Fong , Leong Mee Lian , Wong Yan Ling , Wong Guat Jah , Tan Joon Liang , Wee Wei Yee , Ong Chia Sui , Pang Yong Kek , Choo Siew Woh
Published: August 2013

Mycobacterium massiliense
is a nontuberculous mycobacterium associated with human infections. We report here the draft genome sequence of
M. massiliense
strain M159, isolated from the bronchial aspirate of a patient who had a pulmonary infection. This strain showed genotypic and
in vitro
resistance to a number of tetracyclines and beta-lactam antibiotics.
Right giant atrial thrombosis and pulmonary embolism complicating pacemaker leads
Authors: D'Aloia Antonio , Bonadei Ivano , Vizzardi Enrico , Curnis Antonio
Published: August 2013

We describe a case of a patient with bilateral pulmonary embolism because of a giant intracardiac thrombus anchored on a right atrial pacemaker lead treated with unfractionated heparin and the consecutively complete thrombus resolution after 5–6 days.
Health-related quality of life after catheter-directed thrombolysis for deep vein thrombosis: secondary outcomes of the randomised, non-blinded, parallel-group CaVenT study
Authors: Enden Tone , Wik Hilde Skuterud , Kvam Ann Kristin , Haig Ylva , Kløw Nils Einar , Sandset Per Morten
Published: August 2013

Objectives

To investigate whether additional catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) improves long-term quality of life (QOL) compared with standard treatment with anticoagulation and compression stockings alone in patients with proximal deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Design

Open-label randomised controlled trial.

Setting

19 Hospitals in the Norwegian southeastern health region.

Participants

Patients (18–75 years) with a high proximal DVT, symptoms <21 days and no increased risk of bleeding were eligible. 189 of 209 recruited patients completed 24 months of follow-up.

Interventions

Participants were randomised to additional CDT with alteplase for 1–4 days or to standard treatment only with 6 months of anticoagulation and 24 months of compression stockings.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Planned secondary outcome measures included QOL as assessed with the generic instrument EQ-5D and the disease-specific instrument VEINES-QOL/Sym. Primary outcome measure was post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) after 24 months.

Results

After 24 months there were no differences in QOL between the additional CDT and standard treatment arms; mean difference for the EQ-5D index was 0.04 (95% CI −0.10 to 0.17), for the VEINES-QOL score 0.2 (95% CI −2.8 to 3.0) and for the VEINES-Sym score 0.5 (95% CI −2.4 to 3.4; p values>0.37). Independent of treatment arms, patients with PTS had poorer outcomes than patient without PTS; mean difference for EQ-5D was 0.09 (95% CI 0.03 to 0.15), for VEINES-QOL score 8.6 (95% CI 5.9 to 11.2) and for VEINES-Sym score 9.8 (95% CI 7.3 to 12.3; p values<0.001).

Conclusions

QOL did not differ between patients treated with additional CDT compared with standard treatment alone. Patients who developed PTS reported poorer QOL and more symptoms than patients without PTS. QOL should be included as an outcome measure in clinical studies on patients at risk of PTS.

Trial registration

NCT00251771
ULTRA-LOW VOLTAGE TUNABLE TRANSCONDUCTOR BASED ON BULK-DRIVEN QUASI-FLOATING-GATE TECHNIQUE
Authors: KHATEB FABIAN , KHATIB NABHAN , PROMMEE PIPAT , JAIKLA WINAI , FUJCIK LUKAS
Published: August 2013

This paper presents ultra-low voltage transconductor using a new bulk-driven quasi-floating-gate technique (BD-QFG). This technique leads to significant increase in the transconductance and the bandwidth values of the MOS transistor (MOST) under ultra-low voltage condition. The proposed CMOS structure of the transconductor is capable to work with ultra-low supply voltage of ±300 mV and low power consumption of 18 μW. The transconductance value of the transconductor is tunable by external resistor with wide linear range. To prove the validation of the new described technique a second-order Gm-C multifunction filter is presented as one of the possible applications. The simulation results using 0.18 μm CMOS N-Well process from TSMC show the attractive features of the proposed circuit.
GENERALIZED MULTI-SYMPLECTIC METHOD FOR DYNAMIC RESPONSES OF CONTINUOUS BEAM UNDER MOVING LOAD
Authors: HU WEIPENG , DENG ZICHEN , OUYANG HUAJIANG
Published: August 2013

Based on the multi-symplectic idea, a generalized multi-symplectic integrator method is presented to analyze the dynamic response of multi-span continuous beams with small damping coefficient. Focusing on the local conservation properties, the generalized multi-symplectic formulations are introduced and a fifteen-point implicit structure-preserving scheme is constructed to solve the first-order partial differential equations derived from the dynamic equation governing the dynamic behavior of continuous beams under moving load. From the results of the numerical experiments, it can be concluded that, for the cases considered in this paper, the structure-preserving scheme is generalized multi-symplectic if the viscous damping c ≤ 0.3751 when the continuous beam is under a constant-speed moving load and the structure-preserving scheme is generalized multi-symplectic if the viscous damping c ≤ 0.3095 when the continuous beam is under a variable-speed moving load with fixed step lengths Δt = 0.05 and Δx = 0.025. Similar to a multi-symplectic scheme, the generalized multi-symplectic scheme also has two remarkable advantages: the excellent long-time numerical behavior and the good conservation property.
Adaptive regulation of human intestinal thiamine uptake by extracellular substrate level: a role for THTR-2 transcriptional regulation
Authors: Nabokina Svetlana M. , Subramanian Veedamali S. , Valle Judith E. , Said Hamid M.
Published: August 2013

The intestinal thiamine uptake process is adaptively regulated by the level of vitamin in the diet, but the molecular mechanism involved is not fully understood. Here we used the human intestinal epithelial Caco-2 cells exposed to different levels of extracellular thiamine to delineate the molecular mechanism involved. Our results showed that maintaining Caco-2 cells in a thiamine-deficient medium resulted in a specific and significant increase of [3H]thiamine uptake compared with cell exposure to a high level of thiamine (1 mM). This adaptive regulation was also associated with a higher level of mRNA expression of thiamine transporter-2 (THTR-2), but not thiamine transporter-1 (THTR-1), in the deficient condition and a higher level of promoter activity of gene encoding THTR-2 ( SLC19A3). Using 5′-truncated promoter-luciferase constructs, we identified the thiamine level-responsive region in the SLC19A3 promoter to be between −77 and −29 (using transcriptional start site as +1). By means of mutational analysis, a key role for a stimulating protein-1 (SP1)/guanosine cytidine box in mediating the effect of extracellular thiamine level on SLC19A3 promoter was established. Furthermore, extracellular level of thiamine was found to affect SP1 protein expression and binding pattern to the thiamine level-responsive region of SLC19A3 promoter in Caco-2 cells as shown by Western blotting and electrophoretic mobility shift assay analysis, respectively. These studies demonstrate that the human intestinal thiamine uptake is adaptively regulated by the extracellular substrate level via transcriptional regulation of the THTR-2 system, and report that SP1 transcriptional factor is involved in this regulation.
New Rhinophyma Severity Index and Mid-Term Results following Shave Excision of Rhinophyma
Authors: Wetzig T. , Averbeck M. , Simon J.C. , Kendler M.
Published: August 2013

Background: Rhinophyma is a progressive nasal deformity resulting from hyperplasia of the sebaceous glands and connective tissue, with a negative effect on quality of life. Partial-thickness shave excision has been used for the treatment of rhinophyma, but the mid- and long-term efficacy of the treatment is unknown. Objectives: We analysed the clinical outcomes of shave excision in patients with rhinophyma in our centre between 2005 and 2009. Methods: The entire nose was shaved using a scalpel while under tumescent anaesthesia. The clinical assessment was scored using a novel Rhinophyma Severity Index. Results: Thirty-three patients with rhinophyma and shave excision were recruited for the study. A mid-term follow-up examination was possible in 23/33 (69.7%) patients. After a mean follow-up of 37.4 ± 13.2 months, 21 (91.3%) patients showed an improved Rhinophyma Severity Index (3.3 ± 1.1 to 1.7 ± 0.9, p < 0.0001). All patients reported a high level of satisfaction after surgery (excellent or good result). Eleven (47.8%) patients developed rhinophyma recurrence. Conclusion: Shave excision under tumescent anaesthesia is an effective treatment for rhinophyma. The treatment is associated with high patient satisfaction and minimal side effects. A possible recurrence of rhinophyma must be addressed, however, while obtaining informed consent.
Paternity Balancing
Authors: Evans Mark I. , Andriole Stephanie , Pergament Eugene , Speer Jamie , Curtis Jenifer , Britt David W.
Published: August 2013

Background: Gestational carriers and egg donors have been used by ‘traditional' and now increasingly, gay couples. Three gay male couples, all using egg donors and gestational carriers with semen from both partners, had triplets. All desired reductions to twins for the standard medical indications, but requested, if reasonably possible, to have twins with one fathered by each partner. Methods: Following our usual clinical protocol, we performed chorionic villus sampling at 12 weeks on all fetuses obtaining FISH and karyotype. For paternity analysis, 14 polymorphic molecular markers on villi were compared to DNA samples from the two men to include or exclude each. Results: Standard assessments were all normal. Paternity testing showed that one partner fathered two of the triplets, and the other one. In all cases, one of the ‘twins' was reduced with good clinical outcomes ensuing. Conclusions: Paternity balancing increases options for satisfying family planning desires of gay male couples. We believe it comparable to gender preferences in reductions, i.e. it can be considered but only completely subservient to any clinical criteria. Paternity balancing raises similar ethical issues as reduction with gender preferences, but may increase patient autonomy and mainstream acceptance of stable, gay families.
Warfarin Induces Cardiovascular Damage in Mice
Authors: Krüger Thilo , Oelenberg Stephan , Kaesler Nadine , Schurgers Leon J. , van de Sandt Annette M. , Boor Peter , Schlieper Georg , Brandenburg Vincent M. , Fekete Bertalan C. , Veulemans Verena , Ketteler Markus , Vermeer Cees , Jahnen-Dechent Willi , Floege Jürgen , Westenfeld Ralf
Published: August 2013

Objective—

Vascular calcification is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Once thought to be a passive process, vascular calcification is now known to be actively prevented by proteins acting systemically (fetuin-A) or locally (matrix Gla protein). Warfarin is a vitamin K antagonist, widely prescribed to reduce coagulation by inhibiting vitamin K–dependent coagulation factors. Recently, it became clear that vitamin K antagonists also affect vascular calcification by inactivation of matrix Gla protein. Here, we investigated functional cardiovascular characteristics in a mouse model with warfarin-induced media calcification.

Approach and Results—

DBA/2 mice received diets with variable concentrations of warfarin (0.03, 0.3, and 3 mg/g) with vitamin K1 at variable time intervals (1, 4, and 7 weeks). Von Kossa staining revealed that warfarin treatment induced calcified areas in both medial layer of aorta and heart in a dose- and time-dependent fashion, which could be inhibited by simultaneous vitamin K2 treatment. With ongoing calcification, matrix Gla protein mRNA expression decreased, and inactive matrix Gla protein expression increased. TdT-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling–positive apoptosis increased, and vascular smooth muscle cell number was concomitantly reduced by warfarin treatment. On a functional level, warfarin treatment augmented aortic peak velocity, aortic valve–peak gradient, and carotid pulse-wave velocity.

Conclusion—

Warfarin induced significant calcification with resulting functional cardiovascular damage in DBA/2 wild-type mice. The model would enable future researchers to decipher mechanisms of vascular calcification and may guide them in the development of new therapeutic strategies.
Order Testudines: 2013 update. In: Zhang, Z.-Q. (Ed.) Animal Biodiversity: An Outline of Higher-level Classification and Survey of Taxonomic Richness (Addenda 2013)
Authors: FRITZ UWE , HAVAŠ PETER
Published: August 2013

The present paper presents an update of a list of chelonian taxa published in 2011 (Fritz 2011), which generally has followed the “Checklist of chelonians of the world” by Fritz & Havaš (2007). Although chelonians (terrapins, turtles and tortoises) do not constitute a species-rich group, there exists considerable interest in their taxonomy and systematics, a fact being related with the unique morphology, the debated phylogenetic relationships and the delicate conservations status of these reptiles. Consequently, quite a number of taxonomic changes has been proposed in the past two years.
Educational Differences in Healthy Behavior Changes and Adherence Among Middle-aged Americans
Authors: Margolis Rachel
Published: August 2013

Although the better-educated are more likely to practice healthy behaviors when measured at one point in time, there is no clear evidence regarding whether more educated people are more likely to initiate healthy behavior changes in the face of new chronic conditions and whether they are better able to adhere to these healthy changes, once made. I use data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) (1992-2010) to examine smoking cessation and starting physical activity by educational attainment over an 18-year period among 16,606 respondents ages 50 to 75. The more-educated are the least likely to smoke and most likely to be physically active in middle age. They are also most likely to make healthy changes overall and better adhere to them. Education also shapes behavior change after a new diagnosis, which likely contributes to socioeconomic status differences in chronic disease management and health outcomes.
Bollywood on Creativity
Authors: Minocha Sonal , Stonehouse George , Reynolds Martin
Published: August 2013

This paper explores creativity through the eyes of an individual renowned worldwide for his creativity and intellect: the film director Shekhar Kapur, who is the first film director to successfully span the Hollywood–Bollywood divide. We provide a critical overview of the literature of creativity from a business perspective, with an emphasis on the individual and organizational dimensions, and their impact on enhancing and transforming performance. This review of the literature is a prelude to the insights to creativity furnished by our conversation and interview with Mr. Kapur, whose films have won numerous awards in his native India and whose biopics of Queen Elizabeth (Elizabeth and its sequel) produced for Hollywood secured no less than seven Oscar nominations, including that for best picture. The paper, through the combination of interview and literature, presents new insights to our understanding of creativity and it as a source of superior business performance.
Testing the invariance of adolescent survey-based smoking-related behaviors across ethnic groups and gender
Authors: Dawson Darius B , Sotelo Francisco L , Roesch Scott C , Klonoff Elizabeth A
Published: August 2013

The present study examined the factor structure of 3 smoking-related items administered as part of the California Health Interview Survey. Factorial invariance was examined across Asian Americans ( N = 377), Caucasians ( N = 1739), African Americans ( N = 115), and Latin Americans ( N = 814), and across young men ( N = 1612) and women ( N = 1767). Factorial invariance analyses revealed all minority ethnic groups to be significantly different ( p < .05) from Caucasians, and men to differ significantly from women. These findings suggest that the types of smoking behaviors assessed in the California Health Interview Survey do not predict behaviors uniformly across groups.