bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is there evidence for clinical differences related to the new classification of temporal lobe cortical dysplasia?
Authors: Fauser Susanne , Essang Charles , Altenmüller Dirk Matthias , Staack Anke , Steinhoff Bernhard J. , Strobl Karl , Bast Thomas , Schubert‐Bast Susanne , Doostkam Soroush , Zentner Josef , Schulze‐Bonhage Andreas
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The new International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) classification for focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) differentiates between patients with isolated FCD (type 1) and FCD with an associated hippocampal sclerosis (HS) (type 3a). In contrast to the former FCD classification by Palmini, which considered only histologic features, the novel ILAE classification also relies on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings and presumed pathogenesis. We investigated in a cohort of 100 patients with exclusively temporal FCD if the new subdivision of FCD is reflected in clinical characteristics.

Methods

Thirty‐one patients with FCD type 1 and 50 patients with FCD type 3a in the temporal lobe were included. In all patients MRI and histology of the FCD were available. Both patient groups were compared to 19 patients with temporal FCD type 2 with clearly different histologic appearance.

Key Findings

Patients with FCD type 1 and type 3a presented with similar clinical features in many respects. In univariate analyses, no statistically significant differences were found as to age at epilepsy onset (p = 0.07) and epilepsy surgery (p = 0.14), a normal appearing neocortical temporal lobe (p = 0.08) or diagnosis of FCD by visual inspection of MRI (p = 0.08), preoperative seizure frequency (p = 0.06), and the predominance of an epigastric aura (p = 0.08). The postoperative outcome was nearly identical 1 year (p = 0.8) and 2 (p = 0.8), 3 (p = 0.8), 5 (p = 0.7), and 8 (p = 1.0) years postoperatively. Only febrile seizures (p = 0.025) and an aura (p = 0.03) were significantly more frequently reported in patients with FCD type 3a. Similar results were obtained from a multivariate logistic regression analysis. Patients with FCD type 2 were more different: Compared to FCD type 3a, age at epilepsy surgery was significantly lower (p = 0.004) and auras (p = 0.005) were significantly less frequently reported. Epigastric auras (p = 0.04) and febrile seizures (p = 0.025) occurred significantly less frequently in patients with FCD type 2 without HS compared to FCD type 3a. The diagnosis of an FCD was significantly more frequently made (p = 0.03) by visual inspection of the MRI compared to FCD type 1.

Significance

Clinical features did not allow to clear separation of temporal FCD types 1 and 3a. Statistically significant differences were seen in a history of febrile seizures and the occurrence of auras more common in FCD type 3a. However, FCD type 2 in the same localization but with different histology presented with further differences such as more frequent FCD diagnosis by visual inspection of MRI, earlier operation, and less frequent epigastric auras.
Potential role for human P‐glycoprotein in the transport of lacosamide
Authors: Zhang Chunbo , Chanteux Hugues , Zuo Zhong , Kwan Patrick , Baum Larry
Published: March 2013

Purpose

Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) do not effectively treat 30–40% of patients with epilepsy. Export of AEDs by P‐glycoprotein (Pgp, ABCB1, or MDR1), which is overexpressed in the blood–brain barrier in drug‐resistant patients, may be a mechanism for resistance to AEDs. For most recently approved AEDs, whether they are transported by Pgp is unknown. We investigated whether a new AED, lacosamide (LCM), is a substrate of human Pgp.

Methods

LLC‐PK1 and MDCKII cells transfected with the human MDR1 gene were used to determine the substrate status of LCM in concentration equilibrium transport assays (CETAs). An equal concentration of drug was initially loaded in both the apical and basal chambers, and the concentration in both chambers was measured up to 4 h. The experiments were repeated in the presence of the Pgp inhibitors verapamil and tariquidar. Caco‐2 assays were used to determine the intrinsic permeability and efflux ratio of LCM as well as its potential to inhibit digoxin, a Pgp substrate.

Key Findings

Lacosamide was transported by MDR1‐transfected cells from basolateral to apical sides. The efflux of LCM could be completely blocked by verapamil or tariquidar. In Caco‐2 assays, LCM showed high permeability without a significant efflux ratio; it did not inhibit digoxin, a Pgp substrate.

Significance

Although LCM is a substrate of Pgp in CETA, Caco‐2 data demonstrated that passive diffusion should play a major role in the overall disposition of LCM. The critical role of Pgp should be addressed in vivo.
Förster resonance energy transfer studies of calmodulin produced by native protein ligation reveal inter‐domain electrostatic repulsion
Authors: Hellstrand Erik , Kukora Stephanie , Shuman Cynthia F. , Steenbergen Sara , Thulin Eva , Kohli Anita , Krouse Beth , Linse Sara , Åkerfeldt Karin S.
Published: March 2013

This study explores the influence of long‐range intra‐protein electrostatic interactions on the conformation of calmodulin in solution. Ensemble Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) is measured for calmodulin with a fluorophore pair incorporated specifically with a donor at residue 17 and an acceptor at position 117. This construct was generated by a combination of solid phase peptide synthesis, cloning, expression and native chemical ligation. This labelling method has not previously been used with calmodulin and represents a convenient method for ensuring the explicit positioning of the fluorophores. The ensemble FRET experiments reveal significant electrostatic repulsion between the globular domains in the calcium‐free protein. At low salt, calmodulin has a relatively extended conformation and the distance between the domains is further increased by denaturation, by heat or by non‐ionic denaturants. The repulsion between domains is screened by salt and is also diminished by calcium binding, which changes the protein net charge from −23 to −15. Compared with the calcium‐free form at low salt, the FRET efficiency for the calcium‐bound form has, on average, increased 10‐fold. The conformation of the calcium form is insensitive to salt screening. These results imply that when the two globular domains of calmodulin interact with target, there is no significant free energy penalty due to electrostatic interactions.
Microbial life associated with low‐temperature alteration of ultramafic rocks in the Leka ophiolite complex
Authors: Daae F. L. , Økland I. , Dahle H. , Jørgensen S. L. , Thorseth I. H. , Pedersen R. B.
Published: March 2013

Water–rock interactions in ultramafic lithosphere generate reduced chemical species such as hydrogen that can fuel subsurface microbial communities. Sampling of this environment is expensive and technically demanding. However, highly accessible, uplifted oceanic lithospheres emplaced onto continental margins (ophiolites) are potential model systems for studies of the subsurface biosphere in ultramafic rocks. Here, we describe a microbiological investigation of partially serpentinized dunite from the Leka ophiolite (Norway). We analysed samples of mineral coatings on subsurface fracture surfaces from different depths (10–160 cm) and groundwater from a 50‐m‐deep borehole that penetrates several major fracture zones in the rock. The samples are suggested to represent subsurface habitats ranging from highly anaerobic to aerobic conditions. Water from a surface pond was analysed for comparison. To explore the microbial diversity and to make assessments about potential metabolisms, the samples were analysed by microscopy, construction of small subunit ribosomal RNA gene clone libraries, culturing and quantitative‐PCR. Different microbial communities were observed in the groundwater, the fracture‐coating material and the surface water, indicating that distinct microbial ecosystems exist in the rock. Close relatives of hydrogen‐oxidizing Hydrogenophaga dominated (30% of the bacterial clones) in the oxic groundwater, indicating that microbial communities in ultramafic rocks at Leka could partially be driven by H2 produced by low‐temperature water–rock reactions. Heterotrophic organisms, including close relatives of hydrocarbon degraders possibly feeding on products from Fischer–Tropsch‐type reactions, dominated in the fracture‐coating material. Putative hydrogen‐, ammonia‐, manganese‐ and iron‐oxidizers were also detected in fracture coatings and the groundwater. The microbial communities reflect the existence of different subsurface redox conditions generated by differences in fracture size and distribution, and mixing of fluids. The particularly dense microbial communities in the shallow fracture coatings seem to be fuelled by both photosynthesis and oxidation of reduced chemical species produced by water–rock reactions.
Oral supplementation with branched‐chain amino acid granules prevents hepatocarcinogenesis in patients with hepatitis C‐related cirrhosis: A propensity score analysis
Authors: Tada Toshifumi , Kumada Takashi , Toyoda Hidenori , Kiriyama Seiki , Tanikawa Makoto , Hisanaga Yasuhiro , Kanamori Akira , Kitabatake Shusuke , Niinomi Takuro , Ito Takanori , Hasegawa Ryohei , Ando Yusuke , Yamamoto Kenta , Tanaka Tatsuya
Published: March 2013

Aim

It has been reported that branched‐chain amino acids (BCAA) supplementation can improve nutritional status and reduce liver‐related complications in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. BCAA supplementation reportedly reduces the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in obese cirrhotic patients infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). We investigated the effects of oral supplementation with BCAA granules on hepatocarcinogenesis in patients with HCV‐related cirrhosis using propensity score matching.

Methods

A total of 60 patients with HCV‐related cirrhosis and without history of HCC who were selected by one‐to‐one matching of propensity scores: 30 patients receiving 12 g/day of BCAA granules for 3 months or more (BCAA group) and 30 being observed without BCAA supplementation (control group). The impact of BCAA supplementation was analyzed on the incidence of HCC.

Results

The 3‐ and 5‐year rates of HCC development were 13.7% and 13.7% in the BCAA group and 35.1% and 44.5% in the control group, respectively. The BCAA group had a significantly lower rate of HCC than the control group (P = 0.032). Multivariate analysis for factors that were associated with hepatocarcinogenesis indicated that BCAA supplementation was independently associated with a reduced incidence of HCC (hazard ratio 0.131; 95% confidence interval, 0.032–0.530; P = 0.004) along with sex and serum α‐fetoprotein. Obesity (body mass index, ≥25 kg/m2) was not significantly associated with an increased incidence of HCC.

Conclusion

Oral supplementation with BCAA granules is associated with a reduced incidence of HCC in patients with HCV‐related cirrhosis regardless of the presence of obesity based on the propensity score analysis.
Effect of solvents on the accuracy of the Mini Root ZX apex locator
Authors: Er O. , Uzun O. , Ustun Y. , Canakcı B. C. , Yalpı F.
Published: March 2013

Aim

To evaluate ex vivo, the effects of three solvents on the accuracy of a contemporary electronic root canal length measurement device (ERCLMD), the Mini Root ZX.

Methodology

The actual working length (AWL) of 56 extracted maxillary incisor teeth were measured with an ERCLMD. All root canals were prepared with the ProTaper system to AWL. Of them, 20 were filled with gutta‐percha and a resin‐based sealer (Group A), 20 with gutta‐percha and a zinc oxide/eugenol‐based sealer (Group B), and 16 roots were used as the control group (Group C). Removal of the root filling and repreparation processes were performed using the ProTaper system. Guttasolv and Resosolv were used as the solvents in Group A and Guttasolv and Endosolv E in Group B. After the removal of the root fillings had been achieved, the same ERCLMD was used to measure the working length (WL). Differences between AWL and WL measurements were analysed by paired t‐test, and the accuracy of ERCLMD was assessed using chi‐squared tests.

Results

There were significant differences between AWL and WL measurements in subgroups A2 (Resosolv group) and B2 (Endosolv E group). In these subgroups, WL was shorter than AWL (P < 0.05). Also, the accuracy of the Resosolv group was significantly lower than the others (P < 0.05) at a ±0.5 mm margin of error.

Conclusions

Removing root fillings may require use of a solvent. In these cases, ERCLMDs may exhibit a lower accuracy, thus operators must exercise additional care when measuring the working length using ERCLMDs.
Effects of high‐mobility group box 1 on the proliferation and odontoblastic differentiation of human dental pulp cells
Authors: Qi S. C. , Cui C. , Yan Y. H. , Sun G. H. , Zhu S. R.
Published: March 2013

Aim

To investigate the expression of high‐mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) in human dental pulp tissues and the effects of HMGB1 on proliferation and odontoblastic differentiation of human dental pulp cells (hDPCs).

Methodology

Immunohistochemical assay, immunofluorescence staining and flow cytometric analysis were used to detect the expression of HMGB1 in the human dental pulp and hDPCs, respectively. The proliferation of hDPCs was examined by CCK‐8 after culturing human primary hDPCs in the presence of HMGB1 with different doses. Odontoblastic differentiation of hDPCs was determined using alkaline phosphatase (ALPase) activity assay and mineralized nodule formation. Important mineralization‐related genes such as ALP, dental sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) and dental matrix protein‐1 (DMP‐1) were determined by real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Western blot analysis was performed to determine the difference in expressions of DMP‐1 and DSP with or without the presence of exogenous HMGB1. Simultaneously, messenger RNA and protein levels of HMGB1 and RAGE were also detected. The protein level of HMGB1 in the supernatants was quantified using ELISA analysis.

Results

HMGB1 was found in human dental pulp tissue and in the nuclei of hDPCs. During hDPC odontoblastic differentiation, HMGB1 translocated from the nuclei to the cytoplasm and then secreted out from hDPCs. Exogenous HMGB1 promoted hDPC proliferation and mineralized nodule formation. It up‐regulated the activity of ALPase and the mRNA and protein levels of dentine matrix protein‐1 (DMP‐1), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), dentine sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) and receptor for advance glycation end (RAGE) of hDPCs.

Conclusion

HMGB1 promoted the proliferation and odontoblastic differentiation of hDPCs.
Identification and characterization of the pyrokinin/pheromone biosynthesis activating neuropeptide family of G protein‐coupled receptors from Ostrinia nubilalis
Authors: Nusawardani T. , Kroemer J. A. , Choi M‐Y. , Jurenka R. A.
Published: March 2013

Insects have two closely related G protein‐coupled receptors belonging to the pyrokinin/pheromone biosynthesis activating neuropeptide (pyrokinin/PBAN) family, one with the ligand PBAN or pyrokinin‐2 and another with diapause hormone or pyrokinin‐1 as a ligand. A related receptor is activated by products of the capa gene, periviscerokinins. Here we characterized the PBAN receptor and the diapause hormone receptor from the European corn borer, Ostrinia nubilalis. We also identified a partial sequence for the periviscerokinin receptor. Quantitative PCR of mRNA for all three receptors indicated differential expression in various life stages and tissues. All three splice variants of the PBAN receptor were identified with all variants found in pheromone gland tissue. Immunohistochemistry of V5 tags of expressed receptors indicated that all three variants and the diapause hormone receptor were expressed at similar levels in Spodoptera frugiperda 9 (Sf9) cells. However, the A‐ and B‐variants were not active in our functional assay, which confirms studies from other moths. Functional expression of the C‐variant indicated that it is has a 44 nM half effective concentration for activation by PBAN. The diapause hormone receptor was activated by diapause hormone with a 150 nM half effective concentration.
Work engagement and occupational stress in nurses and other healthcare workers: the role of organisational and personal factors
Authors: Fiabane Elena , Giorgi Ines , Sguazzin Cinzia , Argentero Piergiorgio
Published: March 2013

Aims and objectives

The aims of this study were to: (1) identify the role of organisational and personal factors in predicting work engagement in healthcare workers and (2) compare work engagement and occupational stress perceptions of healthcare professional categories.

Background

Healthcare professionals, with particular regard to nurses, are exposed to several job stressors that can adversely affect both their mental and physical health and also decrease work engagement. Work engagement can be considered as the positive opposite of burnout, and it is characterised by energy, involvement and professional efficacy.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey research was conducted with self‐report questionnaires.

Methods

The Maslach Burnout Inventory–General Survey, the Areas of Worklife Scale and four scales from the Occupational Stress Indicator were administered to a sample of 198 hospital staff (registered nurses, nurse aides, physicians and physiotherapists), of which 110 participated in the study.

Results

The most significant predictors of energy were workload, mental health and job satisfaction; the best predictors of involvement were community, workload, mental health and job satisfaction; professional efficacy was best predicted by values and job satisfaction. In relation to the second aim, physiotherapists had the highest levels of occupational stress and disengagement from their work, while nurse aides were the most work‐engaged and job‐satisfied professional category, with positive perceptions of the work environment.

Conclusions

Both organisational and personal factors were found to be significantly associated with work engagement. In this study, physiotherapists were the category with the highest risk of work‐related psychological problems, whereas nurse aides had the lowest risk.

Relevance to clinical practice

Interventions aimed at improving clinical practice and psychological health of nurses and hospital staff should focus on workload, workers' personal expectations and job satisfaction.
Hip protectors: are they beneficial in protecting older people from fall‐related injuries?
Authors: Combes Margot , Price Kay
Published: March 2013

Aims and objectives

To report findings of an investigation into the methodological quality of research informing the use of hip protectors for those clients in residential aged care considered to be at high risk of falls and to contribute to the translation of research evidence into practice by identifying issues surrounding the use of hip protectors in practice.

Background

Falls risk is a predominant concern when nursing older people, especially those in residential aged care. Fall‐related injuries, specifically pertaining to the hip, yield a high cost to the individual both physically and psychologically. Accordingly, hip protectors are argued in related literature as a form of protection against such injuries.

Design

A database search as per a specified search strategy was conducted for quantitative research publications and randomised control trials.

Methods

English language publications were sought from the year 2000–2011. Searches were made, using specific combinations of keywords, in the following databases: MEDLINE via OvidSP, CINAHL via EBSCOHost, Ageline via OvidSP, Cochrane Library, The Joanna Briggs Institute and Google Scholar.

Results

Six articles were selected for review. Methodological quality of the research publications collated varied, and the use of hip protectors was deemed inconclusive. Compliance was raised as a prevailing issue.

Conclusion

The problem of fall‐related injuries is significant. Whilst some evidence is inconclusive, the use of hip protectors is recommended as best practice.

Relevance to clinical practice

The issue of compliance, however, was identified to affect the use of appliances in residential aged care. Addressing compliance issues must be tackled if hip protectors are to be part of a resident‐centred approach.
Task‐Correlated Facial and Head Movements in Classifier‐Based Real‐Time fMRI
Authors: Magland Jeremy F. , Childress Anna Rose
Published: March 2013

BACKGROUND

Real‐time fMRI is especially vulnerable to task‐correlated movement artifacts because statistical methods normally available in conventional analyses to remove such signals cannot be used in the context of real‐time fMRI. Multi‐voxel classifier‐based methods, although advantageous in many respects, are particularly sensitive. Here we systematically studied various movements of the head and face to determine to what extent these can “masquerade” as signal in multi‐voxel classifiers.

METHODS

Ten subjects were instructed to move systematically (twelve instructed movements) throughout fMRI exams and data from a previously published real‐time study was also analyzed to determine the extent to which non‐neural signals contributed to the high reported accuracy in classifier output.

RESULTS

Of potential concern, whole‐brain classifiers based solely on movements exhibited false positives in all cases (P < .05). Artifacts were also observed in the spatial activation maps for two of the twelve movement tasks. In the retrospective analysis, it was determined that the relatively high reported classification accuracies were (fortunately) mostly explainable by neural activity, but that in some cases performance was likely dominated by movements.

CONCLUSION

Movement tasks of many types (including movements of the eyes, face, and body) can lead to false positives in classifier‐based real‐time fMRI paradigms.
Paediatric expert witness
Authors: Johnson Sandra LJ
Published: March 2013

Paediatricians may be asked to provide expert opinion in paediatric cases that come under legal consideration. This article provides suggestions to assist paediatricians in this role and emphasises their duty to the court when giving expert opinion.
A Leaf Curl Disease in Germplasm of Rapeseed‐Mustard in India: Molecular Evidence of a Weed‐Infecting Begomovirus–Betasatellite Complex Emerging in a New Crop
Authors: Roy Anirban , Spoorthi Poreddy , Bag Manas Kumar , Prasad Telaprolu Venkata , Singh Ranbir , Dutta Manoranjan , Mandal Bikash
Published: March 2013

Evaluation of 130 accessions of rapeseed‐mustard germplasm grown at the National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, New Delhi, India during the winter season (2011–2012) revealed the occurrence of a leaf curl disease in seven accessions. The occurrence of the disease was observed in another 62 of 525 accessions evaluated during 2012–2013. The association of a monopartite begomovirus and betasatellite was established with the symptomatic plants by whitefly transmission and PCR amplification. The complete nucleotide sequences of the begomovirus (JX270684, 2745 nucleotides), obtained by rolling circle amplification, showed the highest sequence identity (98.1%) with the weed‐infecting begomovirus, Croton yellow vein mosaic virus. Analysis of recombination indicated the probable occurrence of many overlapping inter‐ and intraspecific recombination events. The sequence of betasatellite (JX270685, 1355 nucleotides) showed the highest sequence identity (95.7%) with Croton yellow vein mosaic betasatellite. Begomoviruses were not previously known to naturally infect rapeseed‐mustard. This is the first report of the emergence of a weed‐infecting begomovirus–betasatellite complex in rapeseed‐mustard germplasm in India and raises the concern on utilization of such susceptible germplasm in crop improvement programmes.
Protein-coated nanoparticles embedded in films as delivery platforms
Authors: Morales Javier O , Ross Alistair C , McConville Jason T
Published: March 2013

Objectives

This work aimed to evaluate the performance of nanoparticle-loaded films based on matrices of polymethacrylates and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) intended for delivery of macromolecules.

Methods

Lysozyme (Lys)-loaded nanoparticles were manufactured by antisolvent co-precipitation. After size, loading efficiency and stability characterization, the selected batch of particles was further formulated into films. Films were characterized for mechanical properties, mucoadhesion, Lys release and activity after manufacture.

Key findings

We found that protein-coated nanoparticles could be obtained in USP phosphate buffer pH 6.8. Particles obtained at pH 6.8 had a z-average of 347.2 nm, a zeta-potential of 21.9 mV and 99.2% remaining activity after manufacture. This formulation was further studied for its application in films for buccal delivery. Films loaded with nanoparticles that contained Eudragit RLPO (ERL) exhibited excellent mechanical and mucoadhesive properties. Due to its higher water-swelling and solubility compared with ERL, the use of HPMC allowed us to tailor the release of Lys from films. The formulation composed of equal amounts of ERL and HPMC revealed a sustained release over 4 h, with Lys remaining fully active at the end of the study.

Conclusions

Mucoadhesive films containing protein-coated nanoparticles are promising carriers for the buccal delivery of proteins and peptides in a stable form.
Eccentricity dependent changes of density, spacing and packing arrangement of parafoveal cones
Authors: Lombardo Marco , Serrao Sebastiano , Ducoli Pietro , Lombardo Giuseppe
Published: March 2013

Purpose

To investigate the distribution of cone density and spacing as well as the preferred packing arrangement of the cone mosaic as a function of retinal eccentricity.

Methods

An adaptive optics retinal camera (rtx1, www.imagine-eyes.com) was used to obtain images of the parafoveal cone mosaic in nineteen healthy volunteers. Cone density and spacing were estimated for each subject (both eyes) using a sampling window of 80 × 80 pixels, at 250‐, 450‐, 650‐ and 1100‐μm eccentricities from the fovea along the nasal and temporal retina of both eyes. The inter‐subject and intra‐subject variation of cone density and spacing were calculated via Coefficient of Variation (CoV). Cone packing arrangement was assessed using Voronoi analysis; calculations were done over 1024 × 128 pixels image sections of the cone mosaic across the horizontal meridian from 200‐ to 1050‐μm eccentricities.

Results

The inter‐subject variation of parafoveal cone density ranged between 10% and 15% (p < 0.001) and the intra‐subject variation of cone density was lower than 8% in all subjects, except for two. The cone spacing values showed a moderate inter‐subject (CoV<7%; p < 0.001) and a low intra‐subject variation (CoV<4% in all subjects, except for two cases). In the parafoveal region, 40–50% of cones were hexagonally arranged; the percentage of non‐hexagonal Voronoi tiles increased at greater eccentricities.

Conclusion

The use of multiple and complementary metric descriptors allows for a more detailed description of packing distribution and preferred arrangement of cone photoreceptors across the parafoveal retina.
Identification and differentiation of Phyllosticta species causing freckle disease of banana using high resolution melting (HRM) analysis
Authors: Wong M.‐H. , Henderson J. , Drenth A.
Published: March 2013

Freckle disease of banana is caused by three closely related species of Phyllosticta, namely P. musarum, P. maculata and P. cavendishii. In this study, a high resolution melting (HRM) analysis assay was developed and its potential to identify these three fungal species is reported. The assay, which targets the ITS of the nuclear rDNA of the fungal species, generates three distinct melt profiles for the three Phyllosticta species. It is also able to distinguish a combination of up to three co‐infecting species by generating a deviant melt curve. Thirty‐five fungal cultures and infected herbarium leaf specimens, previously characterized using nucleotide sequencing as belonging to one of the three Phyllosticta species, were used for validation of the HRM analysis assay. The normalized curves generated differentiated all samples, with samples from each species correctly identified. The assay was further evaluated against 18 uncharacterized infected leaf specimens from various geographic locations and the results were verified by subsequent nucleotide sequencing. This HRM analysis assay allows rapid identification and differentiation of the three Phyllosticta species using a single primer pair in a one‐step closed‐tube system without labelled fluorescence probes. This novel assay format has potential for simultaneously identifying and differentiating other closely related species of plant pathogens, as well as the classification of infected historic specimens.
Expression and Localization of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and its Receptors in the Corpus Luteum During Oestrous Cycle in Water Buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis)
Authors: Chouhan VS , Panda RP , Yadav VP , Babitha V , Khan FA , Das GK , Gupta M , Dangi SS , Singh G , Bag S , Sharma GT , Berisha B , Schams D , Sarkar M
Published: March 2013

Contents

The aim of this study was to document the expression and localization of VEGF system comprising of VEGF isoforms (VEGF 120, VEGF 164 and VEGF 188) and their receptors (VEGFR1 and VEGFR2) in buffalo corpus luteum (CL) obtained from different stages of the oestrous cycle. Real‐time RT‐PCR (qPCR), Western blot and immunohistochemistry were applied to investigate mRNA expression, protein expression and localization of examined factors. In general, all the components of VEGF system (the VEGF isoforms and their receptors) were found in the water buffalo CL during the oestrous cycle. The mRNA as well as protein expression of VEGF system was highest during the early and mid‐luteal phase, which later steadily decreased (p < 0.05) after day 10 to reach the lowest level in regressed CL. As demonstrated by immunohistochemistry, VEGF protein was localized predominantly in luteal cells; however, VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 were localized in luteal cells as well as in endothelial cells. In conclusion, the dynamics of expression and localization of VEGF system in buffalo corpora lutea during the luteal phase were demonstrated in this study, indicating the possible role of VEGF system in the regulation of luteal angiogenesis and proliferation of luteal as well as endothelial cells through their non‐angiogenic function.
Lateral Force and Yaw Moment on a Slender Body in Forward Motion at a Yaw Angle
Authors: Yeung Ronald W. , Seah Robert K. M. , Imamura John T.
Published: March 2013

This paper presents a solution method for obtaining the lateral hydrodynamic forces and moments on a submerged body translating at a yaw angle. The method is based on the infinite-fluid formulation of the free-surface random-vortex method (FSRVM), which is reformulated to include the use of slender-body theory. The resulting methodology is given the name: slender-body FSRVM (SB-FSRVM). It utilizes the viscous-flow capabilities of FSRVM with a slender-body theory assumption. The three-dimensional viscous-flow equations are first shown to be reducible to a sequence of two-dimensional viscous-fluid problems in the cross-flow planes with the lowest-order effects from the forward velocity included in the cross-flow plane. The theory enables one to effectively analyze the lateral forces and yaw moments on a body undergoing prescribed forward motion with the possible occurrence of cross-flow separation. Applications are made to several cases of body geometry that are in steady forward motion, but at a yawed orientation. These include the case of a long “cone-tail” body. Comparisons are made with existing data where possible.
Experimental Verification of a Combi-Bearing Model for Vertical Rotor Systems
Authors: Luneno Jean-Claude , Aidanpää Jan-Olov , Gustavsson Rolf
Published: March 2013

Combi-bearing is a combined thrust-journal bearing design used in vertical hydropower rotors. The dynamic characteristics of this component (combi-bearing) were analytically modeled by Luneno et al. (2011, “Model Based Analysis of Coupled Vibrations Due to the Combi-Bearing in Vertical Hydroturbogenerator Rotors,” ASME J. Vib. Acoust., 133, p. 061012). This analytic model was inserted into a finite element model of a vertical rotor rig and numerically simulated. In this paper, the simulated vertical rotor-bearings system is a small-scale vertical machine constructed to validate the analytically derived combi-bearing model. Good agreement was found between the simulation and experimental results. The simulation and experimental results showed that the journal (radial) bearing's position relative to the contact point between the combi-bearing's collar and the rotor influences the rotor system's fundamental natural frequencies. Therefore, the combi-bearing model needs to be included into rotor dynamic models. Neglecting the effect of this component may cause significant errors in the predicted results.
Modeling and Validation of Rotational Vibration Responses for Accessory Drive Systems—Part I: Experiments and Belt Modeling
Authors: Shangguan Wen-Bin , Zeng Xiang-Kun
Published: March 2013

Experimental and modeling techniques for belt longitudinal static stiffness, longitudinal dynamic stiffness and damping coefficient, bending stiffness, and friction coefficient between a pulley and a belt are presented. Two methods for measuring longitudinal dynamic stiffness and damping coefficient of a belt are used, and the experimental results are compared. Experimental results show that the longitudinal dynamic stiffness of a belt is dependent on belt length, pretension, excitation amplitude and excitation frequency, and the damping coefficient of a belt is dependent on excitation frequency. Two models are presented to model the dependence of longitudinal dynamic stiffness and damping coefficient of a belt on belt length, pretension, excitation amplitude and excitation frequency. The proposed model is validated by comparing the estimated dynamic stiffness and damping with the experiment data. Also, the measurements of belt bending stiffness are carried out and the influences of the belt length on the belt bending stiffness are investigated. One test rig for measuring friction coefficient between a pulley and a belt are designed and fabricated, and the friction coefficient between the groove side belt with the groove side pulley, and the flat side belt with a flat pulley is measured with the test rig. The influences of wrap angle between pulley and belt, pretension of belt and rotational speed of the pulley on the friction coefficient are measured and analyzed. Taking an engine front end accessory drive system (FEAD) as the research example for the accessory drive system, experimental methods and the static and dynamic characteristics for the FEAD with seven pulleys, a tensioner, and a serpentine belt are presented.
Acoustic Radiation From Thick Laminated Cylindrical Shells With Sparse Cross Stiffeners
Authors: Cao Xiongtao , Ma Chao , Hua Hongxing
Published: March 2013

A general method for predicting acoustic radiation from multiple periodic structures is presented and a numerical solution is proposed to find the radial displacement of thick laminated cylindrical shells with sparse cross stiffeners in the wavenumber domain. Although this method aims at the sound radiation from a single stiffened cylindrical shell, it can be easily adapted to analyze the vibrational and sound characteristics of two concentric cylindrical shells or two parallel plates with complicated periodic stiffeners, such as submarine and ship hulls. The sparse cross stiffeners are composed of two sets of parallel rings and one set of longitudinal stringers. The acoustic power of large cylindrical shells above the ring frequency is derived in the wavenumber domain on the basis of the fact that sound power is focused on the acoustic ellipse. It transpires that a great many band gaps of wave propagation in the helical wave spectra of the radial displacement for stiffened cylindrical shells are generated by the rings and stringers. The acoustic power and input power of stiffened antisymmetric laminated cylindrical shells are computed and compared. The acoustic energy conversion efficiency of the cylindrical shells is less than 10%. The axial and circumferential point forces can also produce distinct acoustic power. The radial displacement patterns of the antisymmetric cylindrical shell with fluid loadings are illustrated in the space domain. This study would help to better understand the main mechanism of acoustic radiation from stiffened laminated composite shells, which has not been adequately addressed in its companion paper (Cao et al., 2012, “Acoustic Radiation From Shear Deformable Stiffened Laminated Cylindrical Shells,” J. Sound Vib., 331(3), pp. 651-670).
Free Vibration of a High-Speed Rotating Truncated Spherical Shell
Authors: Li Hua
Published: March 2013

This paper is the first work on the vibration of a high-speed rotating spherical shell that rotates about its symmetric axis by developing a set of motion governing equations with consideration of both the Coriolis and centrifugal accelerations as well as the hoop tension arising in the rotating shell due to the angular velocity. To the author's understanding, no such work has so far been published on the rotating spherical shell with the Coriolis and centrifugal accelerations as well as the hoop tension, although there have been the works published on the rotating hemispherical shell with consideration of the Coriolis and centrifugal forces. A thin rotating isotropic truncated circular spherical shell with the simply supported boundary conditions at both the ends is taken as an example for the free vibrational analysis. In order to validate the present formulation, comparisons are made with a nonrotating isotropic spherical shell, and a good agreement is achieved since no published data results from open literature are available for comparison on the dynamics of rotating spherical shell. By the Galerkin method, several case studies are conducted for investigation of the influence of the important parameters on the frequency characteristics of the rotating spherical shell. The parameters studied include the circumferential wave number, the rotational angular velocity, Young's modulus of the shell material, and the geometric ratio of the thickness to radius of the spherical shell.
Determination of a Dimensionless Equation for Shear Friction Factor in Cold Forging
Authors: Jung K. H. , Im Y. T.
Published: March 2013

In cold bulk forming processes, a constant shear friction model is widely used to apply friction. However, it is not easy to predict the shear friction factor since frictional behavior is highly nonlinear and is dependent upon a number of processing variables, such as the hardness of the material, lubricity, sliding velocity, surface contact conditions, and the environment, etc. This paper presents a dimensionless equation that predicts the shear friction factor at the counter punch interface mfd that was empirically determined by dimensional analysis, using the tip test results available in the literature as a function of selected process variables, such as the yield strength and initial specimen's radius of the deforming material, hardness, and surface roughness of the deforming material and the counter punch, viscosity of the lubricant, and deformation speed. To verify the determined equation, a new set of experiments were carried out for specimens made of AL7075-O. The prediction of the shear friction factor at the punch interface was also achieved by simply dividing the dimensionless equation by the x ratio defined by x = mfd/mfp, which is dependent on the hardening exponent of the deforming material based on previous studies. The predicted mfd and mfp were found to be reasonable owing to comparisons with the experimental data obtained for AL7075–O in this study. These results will be beneficial in scientifically assessing the effect of the processing parameters on the friction, individually and economically selecting the lubrication condition for cold bulk forming for practical applications.
Integrated spatiotemporal analysis for automatic contrast agent inflow detection on angiography and fluoroscopy during transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Liao Rui , You Wei , Liu Yinxiao , Yan Michelle , John Matthias , Shea Steven
Published: March 2013

Purpose:

In this paper, the authors propose an integrated spatial and temporal analysis for automatic detection of contrast agent inflow at the aortic root on fluoroscopic and angiographic sequences during transcatheter aortic valve implantation procedures as a means to automatically trigger registration of 3D aortic models.

Methods:

The proposed contrast agent inflow detection method is based on a contrast feature curve, calculated using histogram analysis and a likelihood ratio test. Several image preprocessing steps are performed to enhance the properties of the contrast feature curve. For sequences with a dominant peak on its contrast feature curve, a cascaded classifier is then applied to differentiate the contrast‐enhanced aorta from contrast‐enhanced balloons. Finally, a multilayer classifier based on sparse Gabor features is used to recognize sequences containing a faint contrast‐enhanced aorta.

Results:

The algorithm was evaluated using 105 sequences consisting of more than 12 000 frames, and achieved a detection accuracy of 99.1% (100% sensitivity and 98.5% specificity). The computation time for a typical sequence of 150 frames was ∼1 s on a single‐core Dell PC with a 1 GHz Intel Xeon processor and 2 GB of RAM.

Conclusions:

The authors developed a novel, automatic method for contrast agent inflow detection on x‐ray sequences. With the achieved efficiency and accuracy, the proposed method is potentially feasible for clinical use as it facilitates a seamless workflow in utilizing patient‐specific 3D models to provide anatomical details during transcatheter aortic valve implantation procedures.
Global Leaf Trait Relationships: Mass, Area, and the Leaf Economics Spectrum
Authors: Osnas Jeanne L. D. , Lichstein Jeremy W. , Reich Peter B. , Pacala Stephen W.
Published: March 2013

Getting It Wright?

In 2004, a paper by Wright
et al.
comparing six leaf traits of over 2000 plant species showed that between-species variation among the traits was confined primarily to a single multidimensional axis, but only if traits were normalized by leaf mass. This “leaf economic spectrum” has been influential in guiding understanding of the roles of plants in global carbon cycling.

Osnas
et al.

(p.
741
, published online 28 March) now show that the principal finding of Wright
et al.
is primarily a mathematical consequence of the way that the data were normalized. Analysis of the same data suggests that traits are primarily proportional to leaf area, not leaf mass. Using a method to analyze relationships among traits without normalization-induced correlations revealed a multidimensional correlation between leaf traits. These relationships imply weaker effects of leaf nitrogen on rates of photosynthesis and respiration, with important implications for current models of global change.
Amplifying Genetic Logic Gates
Authors: Bonnet Jerome , Yin Peter , Ortiz Monica E. , Subsoontorn Pakpoom , Endy Drew
Published: March 2013

Biological Transistor

A transistor is a device that amplifies and switches electronic signals.

Bonnet
et al.

(p.
599
, published online 28 March; see the Perspective by

Benenson

) engineered a genetic circuit to behave like a transistor in individual living cells. Instead of regulating messenger RNA levels, which has been used previously in designing such systems, the approach relied on changing the state of double-stranded DNA. Six basic logic gates were designed and constructed that were based on the activity of two serine recombinases.
Small-Sized Circular Genomes Similar to Genome of Porcine Circovirus 2
Authors: Luo Wei , Zhao Dun , Yu Xing-Long , Ge Meng , Li Run-Cheng , Jiang Da-Liang
Published: March 2013

Circular genomes smaller than and similar to the genome of porcine circovirus 2 were obtained from pig tissues along with the full-length genome of porcine circovirus 2. The 922-, 839-, and 617-nucleotide-long genomes exhibit high homology to the
rep
gene plus the origin of replication sequence of porcine circovirus 2.
Draft Genome Sequence of Clostridium ultunense Strain Esp, a Syntrophic Acetate-Oxidizing Bacterium
Authors: Manzoor Shahid , Müller Bettina , Niazi Adnan , Bongcam-Rudloff Erik , Schnürer Anna
Published: March 2013

Clostridium ultunense
strain Esp belongs to the functional group of syntrophic acetate-oxidizing bacteria (SAOB), which have been identified as key organisms for efficient biogas production from protein-rich materials. Genome analysis and comparative genomics might aid us to define physiological features that are essential for maintaining this particular syntrophic lifestyle.
Draft Genome Sequence of Rhodococcus triatomae Strain BKS 15-14
Authors: Kumar Shailesh , Bala Monu , Raghava Gajendra Pal Singh , Mayilraj Shanmugam
Published: March 2013

We report the 5.8-Mb genome sequence of
Rhodococcus triatomae
BKS 15-14, isolated from an ant hill soil sample, collected from Bhitarkanika Mangrove Reserve Forest, Odisha, India. The draft genome of strain BKS 15-14 consists of 5,824,349 bp, with a G+C content of 69%, 5,387 protein-coding genes, and 57 RNAs.
IgG4-related systemic sclerosing disease: a diagnosis to be considered
Authors: Dasari Bobby V M , McElvanna Kevin , Loughrey Maurice , Diamond Tom
Published: March 2013

IgG4-related systemic sclerosing disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder with diverse clinical presentation. We report a 56-year-old patient who has presented with obstructive jaundice, bulky pancreas and mesenteric lymph node mass. He was later diagnosed to have IgG4-sclerosing disease involving pancreas, small bowel mesentery, common bile duct, liver, gallbladder and submandibular salivary glands and has required multiple surgical interventions. IgG4-related systemic sclerosing disease appears to be more commonly encountered than it was once thought and needs considered in patients presenting with pancreatitis of no obvious underlying cause. Although the disease is primarily managed by medical therapy, there is a role for surgical intervention in order to obtain tissue for diagnosis, exclude other possible neoplastic aetiology and to manage disease-related complications.
The significance of the senescence pathway in breast cancer progression
Authors: Pare Rahmawati , Yang Tao , Shin Joo-Shik , Lee Cheok Soon
Published: March 2013

Invasive breast cancer develops through prolonged accumulation of multiple genetic changes. The progression to a malignant phenotype requires overriding of growth inhibition. It is evident that some breast cancers have an inherited basis, and both hereditary and sporadic cancers appear to involve molecular mechanisms that are linked to the cell cycle. Frequently, changes in the molecular pathways with gene deletions, point mutations and/or overexpression of growth factors can be seen in these cancers. Recent evidence also implicates the senescence pathway in breast carcinogenesis. It has a barrier effect towards excessive cellular growth, acting as the regulator of tumour initiation and progression. Later in carcinogenesis, acquisition of the senescence associated secretory phenotype may instead promote tumour progression by stimulating growth and transformation in adjacent cells. This two-edge role of senescence in cancer directs more investigations into the effects of the senescence pathway in the development of malignancy. This review presents the current evidence on the roles of senescence molecular pathways in breast cancer and its progression.