bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of identity disequilibrium and its relation to empirical heterozygosity fitness correlations: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Miller Joshua M. , Coltman David W.
Published: March 2014

Heterozygosity fitness correlations (HFCs) have frequently been used to detect inbreeding depression, under the assumption that genome‐wide heterozygosity is a good proxy for inbreeding. However, meta‐analyses of the association between fitness measures and individual heterozygosity have shown that often either no correlations are observed or the effect sizes are small. One of the reasons for this may be the absence of variance in inbreeding, a requisite for generating general‐effect HFCs. Recent work has highlighted identity disequilibrium (ID) as a measure that may capture variance in the level of inbreeding within a population; however, no thorough assessment of ID in natural populations has been conducted. In this meta‐analysis, we assess the magnitude of ID (as measured by the g2 statistic) from 50 previously published HFC studies and its relationship to the observed effect sizes of those studies. We then assess how much power the studies had to detect general‐effect HFCs, and the number of markers that would have been needed to generate a high expected correlation (r2 = 0.9) between observed heterozygosity and inbreeding. Across the majority of studies, g2 values were not significantly different than zero. Despite this, we found that the magnitude of g2 was associated with the average effect sizes observed in a population, even when point estimates were nonsignificant. These low values of g2 translated into low expected correlations between heterozygosity and inbreeding and suggest that many more markers than typically used are needed to robustly detect HFCs.
Antifungal prophylaxis following heart transplantation: systematic review
Authors: Uribe Luis G. , Cortés Jorge A. , Granados Carlos E. , Montoya José G.
Published: March 2014

Patients with heart transplantation have a high incidence of infectious complications, especially fungal infections. The aim of the systematic review was to determine the best pharmacological strategy to prevent fungal infections among patients with heart transplant. We searched the PubMed and Embase databases for studies reporting the effectivenesss of pharmacologic strategies to prevent fungal infections in adult patient with a heart transplant. Our search yielded five studies (1176 patients), four of them with historical controls. Two studies used inhaled amphotericin B deoxycholate, three used itraconazole and one used targeted echinocandin. All studies showed significant reduction in the prophylaxis arm. Different products, doses and outcomes were noted. There is a highly probable benefit of prophylaxis use, however, better studies with standardised doses and comparators should be performed.
Fibroblasts isolated from a keratocystic odontogenic tumor promote osteoclastogenesis in vitro via interaction with epithelial cells
Authors: Wang H‐C , Jiang W‐P , Sima Z‐H , Li T‐J
Published: March 2014

Objectives

Investigate the role of the epithelial–mesenchymal interaction of keratocystic odontogenic tumor (KCOT) in influencing osteoclastogenesis.

Materials and Methods

Fibroblasts isolated from KCOT fibrous capsule and normal gingival mucosa were, respectively, co‐cultured with human immortalized oral epithelial cells (HIOECs), and the supernatant was collected to make conditioned medium, in which the osteoclastogenesis of osteoclast precursor cell line Raw 264.7 was observed. Genes related to bone resorption (RANKL, OPG, COX‐2, and M‐CSF) were analyzed by real‐time PCR. Antibodies against human sRANKL and inhibitor of COX‐2: NS398 were added to conditioned medium to investigate the inhibitory effect on osteoclastogenesis.

Results

Compared with co‐cultured gingival fibroblasts and HIOECs (GE‐CM), the conditioned medium from co‐cultured KCOT fibroblasts and HIOECs (KE‐CM) induced more osteoclast‐like cell formation and increased NFATC1 mRNA in Raw264.7 cells (P < 0.05). Co‐cultured KCOT fibroblasts (KF) and HIOECs, respectively, expressed more COX‐2 mRNA than the co‐cultured gingival fibroblasts (GF) and HIOECs (P < 0.05). While the ratio of RANKL/OPG in HIOECs co‐cultured with KF was also significantly higher than that co‐cultured with GF (P < 0.05). The anti‐human sRANKL antibody in KE‐CM inhibited osteoclastogenesis of Raw264.7 cells; however, NS398 displayed little inhibition.

Conclusion

An interesting phenomenon of osteoclastogenic effect of KE‐CM in vitro was investigated, which suggested an indispensable role of epithelial–mesenchymal interaction of KCOT in its bone destruction. It could be at least partly attributed to the up‐regulated ratio of RANKL/OPG in epithelium induced by KCOT fibroblasts, the aggressiveness of tumor as result of epithelial–mesenchymal interaction deserves exploration further.
Quantification of Ocular Biologically Effective UV Exposure for Different Rotation Angle Ranges Based on Data from a Manikin
Authors: Hu Liwen , Wang Fang , Ou‐Yang Nan‐Ning , Gao Na , Gao Qian , Ge Tiantian , Gao Yanyan , Liu Guangcong , Zheng Yang , Liu Yang
Published: March 2014

Human outdoor activities are randomly orientated at different angles to the sun. To quantify the ocular UV and biologically effective UV (UVBE; i.e. the ocular UV irradiance exposure for photokeratitis (UVpker), photoconjunctivitis (UVpcon), and cataract (UVcat)) exposure for different rotation angle ranges, a rotating manikin was used to monitor the ocular UV exposure at different rotation angles in clear skies during July 2010 in Sanya, China. As a result, the ocular UV and UVBE irradiance was directly influenced by the rotation angle variations, primarily for the 120° rotation angle ranges facing the morning and afternoon sun when the solar elevation was lower than 60°; during these times, the UV and UVBE spectral irradiance decreased as the rotation angle increased. When compared to the 360° rotation angle ranges (which were considered to be the average exposure situation), the cumulative ocular UVBE for 60°, 120° and 180° rotation angle ranges were maximally 91% (UVcat), 94% (UVpker) and 121% (UVpcon); 71% (UVcat), 74% (UVpker) and 95% (UVpcon); 42%(UVcat), 45%(UVpker) and 55% (UVpcon) higher respectively. Meanwhile, the cumulative ocular UVBE for the 180° rotation angle ranges facing away from the sun were 46% (UVpker), 59% (UVpcon) and 45% (UVcat) lower.
The role of internal capabilities and firms' environment for sustainable innovation: evidence for Germany
Authors: Ketata Ihsen , Sofka Wolfgang , Grimpe Christoph
Published: March 2014

Over the past decade, sustainable innovation has occupied a top‐ranking position on the agenda of many firms. Sustainable innovation can be broadly defined as an innovation that has to consider environmental and social issues as well as the needs of future generations. Although sustainable innovation provides considerable new opportunities for companies it goes along with an increased complexity. This in turn requires certain organizational routines and capabilities to deal with the upcoming challenges. We explore what the specific driving forces are that increase the degree of sustainable innovation within a firm's innovation activities. We test them empirically for more than 1,100 firms in Germany and find that firms need to invest in internal absorptive capacities and to draw both broadly and deeply from external sources for innovation. In that sense, investments in employee training turn out to be more important than technological R&D expenditures.
Exploring the contribution of innovation intermediaries to the new product development (NPD) process: a typology and an empirical study
Authors: Colombo Gabriele , Dell'Era Claudio , Frattini Federico
Published: March 2014

In the ‘knowledge economy’ upheld by the European Lisbon strategy, knowledge‐intensive services are considered a key driver for innovation and competitiveness. A category of knowledge‐intensive services that has become of utmost importance in the last few decades is new product development (NPD) services, which interconnect distant knowledge domains with the client firms. In addition to NPD service providers, web‐based innovation intermediaries have started to help innovative firms access dispersed bodies of knowledge. Despite the heterogeneity of their characteristics, however, a clear typology of the strategies used by traditional NPD service providers and web‐based intermediaries to interact with their knowledge sources and with their clients is missing. This typology would be very useful for those firms that are willing to collaborate with innovation intermediaries because it could highlight the typologies of NPD problems different intermediaries are apt to address and the managerial challenges that working with them entails. Developing such a classification framework is the main goal of this paper.

The typology proposed in this paper suggests that innovation intermediaries should be distinguished based on the following: (1) the way they access their distributed knowledge sources and (2) the way they deliver value to their clients. By combining these two dimensions, four categories of innovation intermediaries are identified, which are named brokers, mediators, collectors and connectors. A multiple case study analysis involving four innovation intermediaries and 12 of their clients is presented in the paper. The analysis provides exploratory insights into (1) the typologies of NPD problems that each class of intermediaries addresses and (2) the managerial challenges that working with each of them entails. These preliminary findings call for further theoretical and empirical research into the complex interaction among innovation intermediaries, their dispersed sources of knowledge and their clients.
Measuring Longevity Risk: An Application to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Pension Plan
Authors: Boyer M. Martin , Mejza Joanna , Stentoft Lars
Published: March 2014

An employer that sets up a defined benefit pension plan promises to periodically pay a certain sum to each participant starting at some future date and continuing until death. Although both the future beneficiary and the employer can be asked to finance the plan throughout the beneficiary's career, any shortcoming of funds in the future is often the employer's responsibility. It is therefore essential for the employer to be able to predict with a high degree of confidence the total amount that will be required to cover its future pension obligations. Applying mortality forecasting models to the case of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police pension plan, we illustrate the importance of mortality forecasting to value a pension fund's actuarial liabilities. As future survival rates are uncertain, pensioners may live longer than expected. We find that such longevity risk represents approximately 2.8 percent of the total liability ascribable to retired pensioners (as measured by the relative value at risk at the 95th percentile) and 2.5 percent of the total liabilities ascribable to current regular contributors. Longevity risk compounds the model risk associated with not knowing what is the true mortality model, and we estimate that model risk represents approximately 3.2 percent of total liabilities. The compounded longevity risk therefore represents almost 6 percent of the pension plan's total liabilities.
Designing an Enterprise Risk Management Curriculum for Business Studies: Insights From a Pilot Program
Authors: Acharyya Madhu , Brady Chris
Published: March 2014

The latest financial crises have highlighted the centrality of managing risks across organizations. Internationally, Basel II/III, The Volcker Rule of the Dodd–Frank Act, and Vickers’ Ring‐Fence all propose stronger management of risk across banks and greater oversight of executive compensation to mitigate generic risk. Given this situation, it might be assumed that academia would also view risk as a central concern for its business programs. It seems not. There is a little evidence that academic curricula are being specifically designed to address this issue. This article examines an Enterprise Risk Management curriculum delivered to graduate student cohorts over 3 consecutive years. Four criteria were used to develop the new curriculum. First, it should take a holistic view of risk; second, the theories related to risk needed to be transformed from individual to group level; third, the dynamics of risk due to market factors needed to be understood; and finally, the way firms respond to crises needed to be observed and embedded in the curriculum.
HLA‐G +3142 polymorphism as a susceptibility marker in two rheumatoid arthritis populations in Brazil
Authors: Veit T. D. , de Lima C. P. S. , Cavalheiro L. C. , Callegari‐Jacques S. M. , Brenol C. V. , Brenol J. C. T. , Xavier R. M. , da Cunha Sauma M. F. L. , dos Santos E. J. M. , Chies J. A. B.
Published: March 2014

In this study, we sought to investigate the genetic influence of two HLA‐G 3′‐untranslated region (3′‐UTR) polymorphisms – 14 bp (rs66554220) and +3142C>G (rs1063320) and their compounding haplotypes in susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in a two‐region Brazilian study comprising of 539 patients and 489 controls. All subjects were polymerase chain reaction (PCR) genotyped for the referred polymorphisms and logistic regression models controlling for sex, city and age were performed. Homozygozity for the +3142G allele was associated with an increased risk of RA [odds ratio (OR) = 1.45, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.075–1.959, PBonf = 0.030], whereas no association was observed for the 14 bp polymorphism. Haplotype comparisons between patients and controls showed a decreased frequency of the delC haplotype in patients (OR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.521–0.946, PBonf = 0.040), which remained significant in the rheumatoid factor (RF)‐positive group (OR = 0.66, 95% CI = 0.482–0.900, PBonf = 0.018), but not in the RF‐negative group. These results corroborate the hypothesis of an involvement of HLA‐G in the susceptibility of RA. The +3142G allele is associated with haplotype lineages that share high identity and are regarded as low producers. The presence of the G allele in homozygosis could be responsible for a low HLA‐G expression profile that could favor the triggering of RA.
RhHB1 mediates the antagonism of gibberellins to ABA and ethylene during rose (Rosa hybrida) petal senescence
Authors: Lü Peitao , Zhang Changqing , Liu Jitao , Liu Xiaowei , Jiang Guimei , Jiang Xinqiang , Khan Muhammad Ali , Wang Liangsheng , Hong Bo , Gao Junping
Published: March 2014

Rose (Rosa hybrida) is one of the most important ornamental plants worldwide; however, senescence of its petals terminates the ornamental value of the flower, resulting in major economic loss. It is known that the hormones abscisic acid (ABA) and ethylene promote petal senescence, while gibberellins (GAs) delay the process. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the antagonistic effects amongst plant hormones during petal senescence are still unclear. Here we isolated RhHB1, a homeodomain‐leucine zipper I transcription factor gene, from rose flowers. Quantitative RT‐PCR and GUS reporter analyses showed that RhHB1 was strongly expressed in senescing petals, and its expression was induced by ABA or ethylene in petals. ABA or ethylene treatment clearly accelerated rose petal senescence, while application of the gibberellin GA3 delayed the process. However, silencing of RhHB1 delayed the ABA‐ or ethylene‐mediated senescence, and resulted in higher petal anthocyanin levels and lower expression of RhSAG12. Moreover, treatment with paclobutrazol, an inhibitor of GA biosynthesis, repressed these delays. In addition, silencing of RhHB1 blocked the ABA‐ or ethylene‐induced reduction in expression of the GA20 oxidase encoded by RhGA20ox1, a gene in the GA biosynthetic pathway. Furthermore, RhHB1 directly binds to the RhGA20ox1 promoter, and silencing of RhGA20ox1 promoted petal senescence. Eight senescence‐related genes showed substantial differences in expression in petals after treatment with GA3 or paclobutrazol. These results suggest that RhHB1 mediates the antagonistic effect of GAs on ABA and ethylene during rose petal senescence, and that the promotion of petal senescence by ABA or ethylene operates through an RhHB1–RhGA20ox1 regulatory checkpoint.
How do we identify RHD variants using a practical molecular approach?
Authors: Arnoni Carine Prisco , Latini Flavia Roche Moreira , Muniz Janaína Guilhem , Gazito Diana , Person Rosangela de Medeiros , de Paula Vendrame Tatiane Aparecida , Barreto José Augusto , Castilho Lilian
Published: March 2014

Serologic resolution of Rh discrepancies due to partial D or weak D phenotypes is a frequent problem encountered during routine typing that can be solved by RHD genotyping because it provides better characterization of these variants. The objective of the current study was to develop algorithms for identification of D variants in multiethnic populations based on a logic sequence of molecular tests using a large number of atypical RhD specimens. Thus, a total of 360 blood samples with atypical D antigen expression were analyzed. A previously published multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) procedure was performed and depending on multiplex PCR analysis, the associated RHCE allele, and D variant frequency in our population, an algorithm was developed composed of six flow charts using specific PCR–restriction fragment length polymorphism and/or specific exon sequencing. This strategy allowed the identification of 22 different variants with few assays and a much reduced cost. This study describes a simple and practical algorithm that we use to determine RHD genotypes in samples with unknown RHD. This strategy is relatively easy to implement and the algorithm can be adapted to populations with various ethnic backgrounds after an initial assessment of the type and frequency of D variants. Essentially, we demonstrate that sequencing of all RHD exons is not necessary for the identification of the majority of known D variants.
Analysis and Optimization of an Electrohydraulic Power Pack for Use in a Fully-Active Vehicle Suspension Through the Use of Computational Fluid Dynamics
Authors: O’Shea Colin , Xia Yanjun , Lowry Sam
Published: February 2014

Shock absorbers are essential to vehicle comfort and handling. Most shock absorbers use passive or “semi-active” valves to produce reactive force with limited ride benefits while dissipating hydraulic power as heat. Fully-active suspensions can fundamentally eliminate the discomfort of bumps and provide superior handling and safety. Existing active suspensions consume large amounts of power and are expensive and unwieldy. If these challenges are addressed, fully-active suspensions could revolutionize the ride control industry.

A compact and full-active suspension system, GenShock, is being developed by Levant Power. The patented system relies upon an electrohydraulic power pack coupled with a gerotor motor/pump. Energy consumption is minimized by regenerative harvesting from suspension dynamics. The system is based around a proprietary electrohydraulic motor/pump mechanism that can both semi-actively damp body and wheel motion while recovering energy, and actuate to drive the wheel and chassis.

This article describes the use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in the development and optimization of hydraulic components in GenShock. The CFD software PumpLinx enabled the complex non-linear GenShock system to be simulated within 5% of experimental tests, and enabled a threefold increase in system efficiency. Parametric simulations predict the torque, power, leakage behavior, and hydrodynamics of the system including effects of aeration and cavitation. Detailed analysis and correlations between experimental data and simulations are presented.
On the Dynamic Behavior of Check Valves for High Frequency Oscillation Pumps
Authors: Leati Eugenio , Scheidl Rudolf , Ploeckinger Andreas
Published: February 2014

Fast check valves play a key role in digital hydraulics and high frequency oscillation pumps (HFOP); in these applications check valves with very short response times in the order of hundreds of microseconds are required. This paper presents a study on the dynamics of two different types of check valves, namely a ball valve available from the market and a plate valve designed specifically for a novel HFOP. A high frequency pumping cycle using such valves has been simulated mathematically in Matlab/Simulink for different working conditions. The same was reproduced physically by means of a test rig specifically designed for testing high frequency valve dynamics. The comparison between simulated and experimental results shows the influence of valve design (e.g. geometry of moving element) as well as fluid propagation effects on the dynamics of the process. The volumetric efficiency of the pumping cycle resulting from the collected data is a major input for the design of the valve for the specific HFOP application.
Accurate Prediction of Axial Piston Machine’s Performance Through a Thermo-Elasto-Hydrodynamic Simulation Model
Authors: Schenk A. , Zecchi M. , Ivantysynova M.
Published: February 2014

A new coupled multi-domain computer simulation model able of predicting axial piston hydraulic pump or motor performance is presented in this paper. The model is composed of different modules, each addressing different problems associated with the machine’s operation. A lumped parameter module calculates the instantaneous displacement chamber pressure. The second and major part of the model is dedicated to the lubrication of the three main pump sliding interfaces and considers the impact of elasto-hydrodynamic, thermal, and micro-motion effects on fluid film thickness. The final sub-model calculates the steady state temperature of the fluid in the pump housing and outlet port. Simulation results are compared to measurements taken of a commercially manufactured pump.
Design and Precision Control of an MR-Compatible Flexible Fluidic Actuator
Authors: Comber David B. , Slightam Jonathon E. , Barth Eric J. , Gervasi Vito R. , Webster Robert J.
Published: February 2014

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers many benefits to image-guided interventions, including excellent soft tissue distinction, little to no repositioning of the patient, and zero radiation exposure. The closed, narrow bore of a high field MRI scanner limits clinician access to the patient, such that an MR-compatible robot is essentially required for many potential interventions. A robotic system of this kind could additionally provide the clinician increased accuracy and more degrees of freedom within the minimally invasive context. Fluid power is an excellent type of actuation to use inside the MRI scanner, as such actuators can be designed free of magnetic and electrical components. However, there are no fluid power actuators readily available that are suitable for use in the operating room. This paper reports a compact, intrinsically safe, sterilizable fluid power actuator. Using additive manufacturing processes, the actuator was printed in a single build. Thus, it is composed of several integrated parts in a compact design. Employing an inchworm-like behavior, the linear actuator can advance or retract a needle or mechanism rod in discrete steps; thus the device is intrinsically safe. The actuator is fluid agnostic, but a pneumatic prototype is presented here with initial testing results. For the pneumatic case, sub-step positioning control has been tested using a nonlinear, model-based controller, and the mean steady-state error was 0.025 mm. Thus this type of actuator appears to be promising solution for use in MRI-guided interventions.
Intuiting the Past: New Age and Neopagan Medievalisms
Authors: Kinane Karolyn
Published: February 2014

As distinct movements in contemporary spirituality, the New Age and Neopaganism share a complex relationship to the European Middle Ages. Revered for its closeness to the earth and reviled for its religious intolerance, the medieval past lends authority to Neopagan practice, provides evidence of universal truth to New Agers, and bestows a sense of enchantment to the daily lives of both groups. This essay defines the terms “medievalism,” “New Age,” and “Neopagan,” outlines previous scholarship that connects these areas, and considers the specific and differing contours of medievalism in both contexts.
Planting by the Moon: Medieval Science and New Age Religion
Authors: Krug Rebecca
Published: February 2014

The purpose of this essay is to distinguish between late medieval and New Age responses to astrology in the realm of gardening.  Medieval garden writers took a practical approach to gardening and understood astrological gardening as fundamentally true but less relevant than empirically observable aspects of seed germination and plant growth.  In contrast, New Age writers invest gardening with philosophical and spiritual significance, drawing on an understanding of astrology as ancient wisdom that can bring greater self-understanding.  New Age gardening is a practice engaged with the symbolic value of interaction with nature for the individual as a member of a community.
New Age, New Media: Kabbalah on the Web
Authors: Segol Marla
Published: February 2014

This essay explores the resituation of medieval and early modern kabbalistic diagrams in a New Age, new media context. Because they are taken out of their previous discursive context, there are real differences in their meaning and in their ritual enaction. Thus, the contemporary use of medieval sources is a "medievalism" dependent on new media. Contemporary scholars often define New Age religion according to its construction and application of syncretistic discourse without concern for historical continuity, and they link this to universalistic ideals and a monistic theology. Thus, syncretism and anachronism have ideological and theological significance. By examining the use of these diagrams, we can better understand how New Age, new media religions create, interpret, and enact sacred discourse.
Movement Demands of Elite Rugby League Players during Australian National Rugby League and European Super League Matches
Authors: Twist Craig , Highton Jamie , Waldron Mark , Edwards Emma , Austin Damien , Gabbett Tim J.
Published: February 2014

Purpose:

This study compared the movement demands of players competing in matches from the elite Australian and European rugby league competitions.

Methods:

Global positioning system devices were used to measure 192 performances of forwards, adjustables, and outside backs during National Rugby League (NRL; n = 88) and European Super League (SL; n = 104) matches. Total and relative distances covered overall and at low (0–3.5 m/s), moderate (3.6–5 m/s), and high (>5 m/s) speeds were measured alongside changes in movement variables across the early, middle, and late phases of the season.

Results:

The relative distance covered in SL matches (95.8 ± 18.6 m/min) was significantly greater (P < .05) than in NRL matches (90.2 ± 8.3 m/min). Relative low-speed activity (70.3 ± 4.9 m/min vs 75.5 ± 18.9 m/min) and moderate-speed running (12.5 ± 3.3 m m/min vs 14.2 ± 3.8 m/min) were highest (P < .05) in the SL matches, and relative high-speed distance was greater (P < .05) during NRL matches (7.8 ± 2.1 m/min vs 6.1 ± 1.7 m/min).

Conclusions:

NRL players have better maintenance of high-speed running between the first and second halves of matches and perform less low- and moderate-speed activity, indicating that the NRL provides a higher standard of rugby league competition than the SL.
Exercise Intensities of Gardening Tasks Within Older Adult Allotment Gardeners in Wales
Authors: Hawkins Jemma L. , Smith Alexander , Backx Karianne , Clayton Deborah A.
Published: February 2014

Previous research has suggested that gardening activity could be an effective form of regular exercise for improving physical and psychological health in later life. However, there is a lack of data regarding the exercise intensities of various gardening tasks across different types of gardening and different populations. The purpose of this study was to examine the exercise intensity of gardening activity for older adult allotment gardeners in Wales, United Kingdom following a similar procedure used in previous studies conducted in the United States and South Korea by Park and colleagues (2008a; 2011). Oxygen consumption (VO2) and energy expenditure for six gardening tasks were measured via indirect calorimetery using the portable Oxycon mobile device. From these measures, estimated metabolic equivalent units (METs) were calculated. Consistent with Park et al. (2008a; 2011) the six gardening tasks were classified as low to moderate-high intensity physical activities based on their metabolic values (1.9–5.7 METs).
Evidence of Clonal Expansion in the Genome of a Multidrug-Resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis Clinical Isolate from Peru
Authors: Galarza M. , Tarazona D. , Borda V. , Agapito J. C. , Guio H.
Published: February 2014

We report the genome sequence of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
INS-MDR from Peru, a multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) and Latin American-Mediterranean (LAM) lineage strain. Our analysis showed mutations related to drug resistance in the
rpoB
(D516V),
katG
(S315T),
kasA
(G269S), and
pncA
(Q10R) genes. Our evidence suggests that INS-MDR may be a clonal expansion related to the African strain KZN 1435.
Triple communicating complicated hepatic hydatid cyst: an unusual presentation and laparoendoscopic management
Authors: Rajan Pidigu Seshiyer , Bansal Saurabh , Sathiyamurthy Rudhramurthy , Palanivelu Chinnusamy
Published: March 2014

Echinococcal disease in humans had been widely reported in the literature for its unusual presentation and location. We discuss a rare case of suppurated left hepatic hydatid cyst with contaminant transdiaphragmatic rupture communicating into the right pleural cavity along with fistulisation of cyst into the left hepatic duct and stomach which is very rare according to our knowledge. A 65-year-old man presented to us with features of cholangitis and sepsis. Initial radiological investigations revealed multiloculated cystic mass in the left lobe of cirrhotic liver communicating with the left hepatic duct and extending to the right pleural cavity with dilated common bile duct. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography confirmed the diagnosis yielding hydatid membranes with presence of transgastric fistula in the left hepatic duct and provided postoperatively continuous internal drainage. Old age, complicated cyst, compromised respiratory status, sepsis and cirrhotic liver precluded us to plan for conservative surgical approach (laparoscopic drainage of mediastinal contents) with successful outcome.
Opana ER abuse and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP)-like illness: a rising risk factor in illicit drug users
Authors: Kapila Aaysha , Chhabra Lovely , Chaubey Vinod K , Summers Jeffery
Published: March 2014

We report the case of a 22 year-old-woman who presented with upper extremity cellulitis secondary to an infiltration of illicit intravenous drug use. She confessed to the intravenous use of Opana ER (an extended release oral formulation of oxymorphone) which is an opioid drug approved only for oral use. She was found to have clinical evidence of profound thrombotic microangiopathy which resulted due to the intravenous use of Opana ER. She showed full clinical improvement after withholding drug and supportive clinical care. Recent report of Opana ER intravenous abuse was published from Tennessee county and has now been increasingly recognised as one of the causes of thrombocytopenia which mimicks clinically as thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura. Physicians should be aware of this association as the lack of familiarity to this can pose serious management dilemmas for our patients (especially the polysubstance abusers).
A patient with a red eye and pulmonary oedema
Authors: Kanji R , Ghonim S , Robertson A , Dubrey S W
Published: March 2014

A middle-aged black male patient presented with symptoms and radiological features indicative of pulmonary oedema. Following several admissions for the same symptomology, and poor resolution of chest radiographic features, the patient developed a red eye. The latter was diagnosed as uveitis, which prompted consideration and proof of a diagnosis of cardiopulmonary sarcoidosis. The patient was subsequently treated with high dose steroids resulting in a partial recovery, complicated by issues of fluid retention.
PARK2 and proinflammatory/anti-inflammatory cytokine gene interactions contribute to the susceptibility to leprosy: a case–control study of North Indian population
Authors: Chopra Rupali , Kalaiarasan Ponnusamy , Ali Shafat , Srivastava Amit K , Aggarwal Shweta , Garg Vijay K , Bhattacharya Sambit N , Bamezai Rameshwar N K
Published: February 2014

Objectives

Cytokines and related molecules in immune-response pathways seem important in deciding the outcome of the host–pathogen interactions towards different polar forms in leprosy. We studied the role of significant and functionally important single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in these genes, published independently from our research group, through combined interaction with an additional analysis of the in silico network outcome, to understand how these impact the susceptibility towards the disease, leprosy.

Design

The study was designed to assess an overall combined contribution of significantly associated individual SNPs to reflect on epistatic interactions and their outcome in the form of the disease, leprosy. Furthermore, in silico approach was adopted to carry out protein–protein interaction study between PARK2 and proinflammatory/anti-inflammatory cytokines.

Setting

Population-based case–control study involved the data of North India. Protein–protein interaction networks were constructed using cytoscape.

Participants

Study included the data available from 2305 Northern Indians samples (829 patients with leprosy; 1476 healthy controls), generated by our research group.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

For genotype interaction analysis, all possible genotype combinations between selected SNPs were used as an independent variable, using binary logistic regression with the forward likelihood ratio method, keeping the gender as a covariate.

Results

Interaction analysis between PARK2 and significant SNPs of anti-inflammatory/proinflammatory cytokine genes, including BAT1 to BTNL2-DR spanning the HLA (6p21.3) region in a case–control comparison, showed that the combined analysis of: (1) PARK2, tumour necrosis factor (TNF), BTNL2-DR, interleukin (IL)-10, IL-6 and TGFBR2 increased the risk towards leprosy (OR=2.54); (2) PARK2, BAT1, NFKBIL1, LTA, TNF-LTB, IL12B and IL10RB provided increased protection (OR=0.26) in comparison with their individual contribution.

Conclusions

Epistatic SNP–SNP interactions involving PARK2 and cytokine genes provide an additive risk towards leprosy susceptibility. Furthermore, in silico protein–protein interaction of PARK2 and important proinflammatory/anti-inflammatory molecules indicate that PARK2 is central to immune regulation, regulating the production of different cytokines on infection.
Endovascular treatment of tandem vascular occlusions in acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Puri Ajit S , Kühn Anna L , Kwon Hyon-Jo , Khan Muhib , Hou Samuel Y , Lin Eugene , Chueh Juyu , van der Bom Imramsjah MJ , Dabus Guilherme , Linfante Italo , Gounis Matthew J , Wakhloo Ajay K
Published: February 2014

Background and purpose

Tandem vascular occlusions are an important cause of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and present unique treatment challenges. We report our experience of managing a subset of AIS patients with extracranial vascular stenting/angioplasty and intracranial revascularization.

Methods

Consecutive patients who presented at three centers with AIS from tandem vascular occlusions confirmed by brain and neck CT imaging were included in the study. We retrospectively analyzed the patient demographics, National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at the time of admission, treatment strategy, angiographic results using the Thrombolysis In Cerebral Infarction (TICI) score, and clinical and imaging follow-up.

Results

Twenty-eight patients were included. The mean NIHSS score at admission was 18. Extracranial carotid occlusions with a concomitant middle cerebral artery occlusion were seen in 89.3% of patients (n=25) and vertebral artery combined with basilar artery lesions in 10.7% (n=3). An antegrade approach (ie, treatment of the extracranial lesion first) was used in 24 patients (85.7%). Proximal occlusion recanalization was achieved usually with a stent (n=27; 96.4%). Pursuant to intracranial revascularization techniques, ≥TICI 2A recanalization was seen in 96.4% of patients. An mRS score of ≤2 at 90 days was achieved in 56.5% of patients.

Conclusions

Our study shows preliminary data from three centers on recanalization of tandem occlusions in patients presenting with AIS. There was a preference to revascularize the proximal occlusion using a stent followed by distal recanalization with mechanical thrombectomy, intra-arterial thrombolysis or a combination of these. This approach has low periprocedural complications and can achieve an excellent angiographic and clinical outcome.
Weak effects of a microsporidian parasite on mottled sculpin in Michigan streams
Authors: Homola Jared J. , Ruetz III Carl R. , Kohler Steven L. , Thum Ryan A.
Published: March 2014

Despite the widespread occurrence of microsporidian parasites in vertebrates and many invertebrates, research regarding their effects on wild populations remains uncommon. We used several metrics of individual growth, condition, and population characteristics to evaluate the effects of a microsporidian infection (Glugea) on six infected populations of mottled sculpin (Cottus bairdii) compared with 10 nearby uninfected populations. Infected individuals (n = 129) were significantly heavier in each age class when compared with uninfected fish (n = 331), yet other measures of growth and condition indicated little influence of the parasite. No significant parasite-associated effects were found when comparing mortality rates, mean age, sex ratios, and history of population genetic bottleneck between infected and uninfected populations. Additionally, we did not detect significant differences in environmental variables or fish assemblages between streams with and without the parasite. Given the disfiguring nature of infection and the strong effects of microsporidian parasites on other hosts, the lack of significant effects caused by parasitism was unexpected and is likely attributed to strong host density-dependent population dynamics or relatively low host infection intensities.
COLCHICINE-INDUCED MUTATIONS IN A TRISPECIFICNICOTIANAHYBRID
Authors: Apparao K. , Gopinath D. M.
Published: March 2014

A new trispecific hybrid was synthesized by crossing the amphidiploid N. longiflora-glauca (2n = 44) with N. forgetiana (2n = 18). The F1hybrids were uniform for their morphological features and chromosome number (2n = 31), Following colchicine treatment, morphological variants were obtained which were diploid. In addition, some complete and partial polyploid plants were obtained. The morphological deviants were attributed to the mutagenic action of the colchicine placed on the initial cells of sucker primordia.
CYTOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF X-IRRADIATION ON CULTURED CALF THYROID CELLS
Authors: Weijer J. , Giblak R. E.
Published: March 2014

After the establishment of primary cultures of calf thyroid cells, X-irradiation at various dose levels was administered. Cytological examination of control and X-irradiated cultures showed a positive correlation between chromosomal bridge formation and dose received. However, doses in excess of 250R yielded a cytological effect similar to the one found in non-irradiated cultures. It is believed that "reproductive death" underlies this phenomenon.Since the thyroid cells are characterized by the inherent potential to survive relatively high iodine concentrations in the substrate, the toxicity of 5-iodo-2′-deoxyuridine (IUDR), as a supplement in the growth medium of cultures, was determined. In contrast to other mammalian cell systems, it was found that a concentration of 4 μg/ml IUDR in the culture medium did not significantly impair the growth of thyroid cells. Subsequent X-irradiation of IUDR pretreated cultures produced an enhanced chromosome bridge effect.
MEIOTIC RESTITUTION AND THE ORIGIN OF POLYPLOIDY. I. INFLUENCE OF GENOTYPE ON POLYPLOID SEEDSET IN A TRITICUM CRASSUM × T. TURGIDUM HYBRID
Authors: Wagenaar E. B.
Published: March 2014

The F1 hybrid (2n = 35) Triticum crassum (2n = 42) × Triticum turgidum cv. Carleton (2n = 28) shows a low but consistent seedset of 28%. Most offspring have twice as many chromosomes (2n = 70) as the F1 hybrid. Cytological studies revealed that a very low number of bivalents (average of 1.7 bivalents) were present at metaphase I; most of the chromosomes were univalents (average of 31.5 univalents). During metaphase I these univalents assembled at the equatorial plate, where the degree of univalent accumulation, determined to be 91.0%, was very high. At anaphase I restitution took place, preventing completion of the first division. In this way many cells obtained one or more large nuclei with or without some micronuclei. Several cells, however, formed one large nucleus containing all 35 chromosomes. These cells were able to proceed through the remaining stages of meiosis without irregularities and produced unreduced, functional gametes with n = 35 chromosomes. It is postulated that autogamous fertilization of egg cells by male gametes, each having n = 35 chromosomes, produced the decaploid offspring with 2n = 70 chromosomes.Since bivalent formation and the high degree of univalent accumulation at the equatorial plate is genetically determined, the occurrence of restitution and the subsequent low set of polyploid seeds are highly influenced by the hybrid's genotype. This was demonstrated in the high reproducibility of the hybrid characteristics under different growing conditions.
EVIDENCE OF EXTRACHROMOSOMAL INHERITANCE INCHENOPODIUM RUBRUM
Authors: Murray Beatrice E. , Craig Iris L.
Published: March 2014

A curled-leaf mutation (Cu) was induced in Chenopodium rubrum by diethyl sulphate treatment and reversed in high frequency (21.5%) by X-rays. Nonchromosomal inheritance is demonstrated for the Cu mutation. Evidence for nonchromosomal inheritance is based on mutation frequency; mutagenic specificity, non-Mendelian segregation; and an absence of segregation in wild type backcrosses. Biparental transmission and independent assortment in back-cross progenies was also shown. Evidence in support of chromosomal gene action and the lack of virus infection as a basis of the mutation is also discussed.
A CHIASMATE SEX QUADRIVALENT IN THE MALE OF AN ALTICID BEETLE, CYRSYLUS VOLKAMERIAE (F.)
Authors: Virkki Niilo
Published: March 2014

A Puerto Rican fleabeetle, Cyrsylus volkameriae (F.), has the karyotype 13II + X1X2y1y2 (♀): 13II + X1X1X2X2 (♂). One exceptionally large autosomal pair and all sex chromosomes are totally heterochromatic or almost so. The sex quadrivalent of the male is the only functional chiasmate sex quadrivalent known. It has probably been formed by two reciprocal translocations between a largely or totally heterochromatic autosome and both neo-X and neo-Y. Except for the sex-determining genes, few or no major genes are considered to be located on the sex chromosomes.
A CHROMOSOME STUDY ON BISEXUAL AND PARTHENOGENETIC RACES OF SCEPTICUS INSULARIS ROELOFS (CURCULIONIDAE: COLEOPTERA)
Authors: Takenouchi Yasushi
Published: March 2014

A weevil species, Scepticus insularis (n = 11), is placed on record as having, among other (3n and 5n), both diploid bisexual and diploid parthenogenetic races. It thus rounds out the concept that polyploid parthenogenetic weevils have evolved from bisexual prototypes.
CORRELATIONS BETWEEN EGG PRODUCTION AND CHROMOSOMAL REGIONS IN DROSOPHILA MELANOGASTER
Authors: Chapco William
Published: March 2014

Correlations of daily egg production in Drosophila melanogaster with the segments, sc cv and v f of the first chromosome and with the segments, al dp and b pr of the second chromosome were investigated for the two genetic backgrounds, Oregon-R and M Oregon-R. The results show that large intra-chromosomal effects and interactions do exist with their magnitudes being largely dependent on background and chromosome. Evidence is also cited to suggest that recombination is also influencing the trait.A small experiment in predictability was performed and a reasonable degree of success was achieved.
The origin of wheat chromosomes 4A and 4B and their genome reallocation
Authors: Dvořák J.
Published: March 2014

Triticum aestivum chromosome "4A" is, like the B genome chromosomes, extensively heterochromatic while the remaining six A genome chromosomes are not. In the presence of the Ph gene it does not pair with any chromosome of einkorn wheats, T. monococcum and T. urartu, the source of the A genome. It is shown here that the same chromosome is also present in T. timopheevii which represents the other evolutionary lineage of wheats. The "4A" chromosomes of T. timopheevii and T. aestivum pair poorly with each other, like the B genome chromosomes of the two lineages, while the remaining A genome chromosomes, except for one arm, pair relatively well. Hence, in both lineages chromosome "4A" has the attributes of the B genome chromosomes, not of the A genome chromosomes. The C-banding pattern of chromosome "4A" of T. aestivum and T. timopheevii closely resembles the C-banding pattern of a chromosome of T. speltoides and less closely chromosome 4B1 of T. sharonense. On the basis of this and other evidence it is concluded that this chromosome was contributed by a species of the section Sitopsis and, consequently, belongs to the B genome. Additionally, there is evidence that the chromosome that was originally designated "4B" belongs to the A genome.
Allozymes and genetic variability in Medicago turbinata, M. truncatula, and their hybrids
Authors: Quiros Carlos F. , Ostafichuk Lisa
Published: March 2014

The genetic variability in the diploid annual species (2n = 2x = 16) Medicago turbinata L. and M. truncatula Gaernt. was studied at three loci for the enzymes peroxidase, Prx1-1, and leucine-aminopeptidase, Lap1-1 and Lap1-2. Eight accessions of each species, including all the taxonomic forms were surveyed by starch gel electrophoresis. No variation was observed among plants within each accession. Among the M. turbinata forms, four alleles were observed at locus Lap1-2. No variation was detected for the other two loci studied. For the M. truncatula forms, four alleles were found for Prx1-1 and three alleles for Lap1-2. No variation was observed for locus Lap1-1. Form uncinata of M. truncatula, of uncertain taxonomic status, has at least one M. turbinata allele. Both species can be differentiated by their specific allozymes. In general, the alleles of the isozymic loci segregated in a Mendelian fashion in the expected ratios for monomeric enzymes. The presence of chlorophyll-deficient plants on some of the progenies involving different taxonomic forms of the species M. turbinata indicates the presence of isolation barriers between these forms. The lack of segregation at locus Lap1-1 in the tetraploidized interspecific hybrid proves its alloploid nature.