bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DETECTING AND QUANTIFYING HEAT TREATMENT OF FLINT AND OTHER SILICA ROCKS: A NEW NON‐DESTRUCTIVE METHOD APPLIED TO HEAT‐TREATED FLINT FROM THE NEOLITHIC CHASSEY CULTURE, SOUTHERN FRANCE
Authors: SCHMIDT P. , LÉA V. , SCIAU PH. , FRÖHLICH F.
Published: August 2012

Heat treatment of lithic raw material is known from the Middle Stone Age to the Neolithic. These findings require archaeometric techniques and methods for detecting the heat‐induced effects within lithic artefacts. However, the existing methods are often cost‐intensive and time‐consuming, and most of them are destructive. Here, we present a new method using the infrared spectroscopic measurement of the strength of H‐bonds formed between surface silanole groups (SiOH) and H2O molecules held in open pores of the samples. The reduction of H‐bond strength in chalcedony is shown to be strongly correlated with the loss of open pores induced by heat treatment. Hence, the method is based on measuring one of the transformations aimed for by the instigators of the heat treatment: the reduction of porosity that modifies the rock's mechanical properties. A first application to heat‐treated material from the Neolithic Chassey culture (southern France) shows that flint was heated to temperatures between 200°C and 250°C in this period. This has important implications for the study of the procedures used and the heating environments. Our new method is non‐destructive, rapid, cost‐effective and allows for detection of the used annealing temperatures.
Separable Attentional Predictors of Language Outcome
Authors: Salley Brenda , Panneton Robin K. , Colombo John
Published: August 2012

The aim of this study was to examine the combined influences of infants' attention and use of social cues in the prediction of their language outcomes. This longitudinal study measured infants' visual attention on a distractibility task (11 months), joint attention (14 months), and language outcomes (word–object association, 14 months; MBCDI vocabulary size and multi‐word productions at 18 months of age). Path analyses were conducted for two different language outcomes. The analysis for vocabulary revealed unique direct prediction from infants' visual attention on a distractibility task (i.e., maintaining attention to a target event in the presence of competing events) and joint attention (i.e., more frequent response to tester's bids for attention) for larger vocabulary size at outcome; this model accounted for 48% of variance in vocabulary, after controlling for baseline communication status (assessed at 11 months). The analysis for multi‐word productions yielded direct effects for infants' distractibility, but not joint attention; this model accounted for 45% of variance in multi‐word productions, again after controlling for baseline communication status. Indirect effects were not significant in either model. Results are discussed in light of the unique predictive role of attentional factors and social/attention cues for emerging language.
Voter Partisanship and the Effect of Distributive Spending on Political Participation
Authors: Chen Jowei
Published: August 2012

Do distributive benefits increase voter participation? This article argues that the government delivery of distributive aid increases the incumbent party's turnout but decreases opposition‐party turnout. The theoretical intuition here is that an incumbent who delivers distributive benefits to the opposing party's voters partially mitigates these voters’ ideological opposition to the incumbent, hence weakening their motivation to turn out and oust the incumbent. Analysis of individual‐level data on FEMA hurricane disaster aid awards in Florida, linked with voter‐turnout records from the 2002 (pre‐hurricane) and 2004 (post‐hurricane) elections, corroborates these predictions. Furthermore, the timing of the FEMA aid delivery determines its effect: aid delivered during the week just before the November 2004 election had especially large effects on voters, increasing the probability of Republican (incumbent party) turnout by 5.1% and decreasing Democratic (opposition party) turnout by 3.1%. But aid delivered immediately after the election had no effect on Election Day turnout.
Preventive Effectiveness of Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator in Reducing Sudden Cardiac Death in the Chinese Population: A Multicenter Trial of ICD Therapy versus Non‐ICD Therapy
Authors: HUA WEI , NIU HONGXIA , FAN XIAOHAN , DING LIGANG , XU YI‐ZHOU , WANG JING , CHEN KEPING , WANG FANGZHENG , ZHANG SHU
Published: August 2012

Preventive Effectiveness of Implantable Cardioverter. Introduction: This prospective and multicenter trial of the implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) aimed to evaluate the mortality rate (including sudden cardiac death [SCD]) and the efficacy of ICD in Chinese patients with high risk of sudden death.

Methods and Results
: This trial was conducted in 31 centers in China. We enrolled 497 patients who fulfilled Class I indication for ICD (2002 ACC/AHA/NASPE guideline). All patients were followed‐up at 3, 6, and 12 months. Clinical characteristics and echocardiographic parameters were collected at baseline and follow‐up; Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was performed. Among 497 enrolled patients with Class I indication of ICD therapy, 112 (22.5%) agreed to and received ICD implantation (ICD group). The remaining 385 patients who were not available for ICD therapy were designated as the non‐ICD group. During a mean follow‐up of 11 ± 3 months, there were a total of 38 deaths, 2 in the ICD group with a mortality of 1.8% and 36 in the non‐ICD group, with a mortality of 9.4% and 26 due to SCD. The overall survival rate was 93% at 3 months of follow‐up, 91% at 6 months, and 89% at 12 months, with an incidence of SCD of 5%, 7%, and 8% at 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively.

Conclusions
: In patients with Class I indication of ICD implantation, the total mortality and incidence of SCD were high. ICD therapy can effectively reduce the mortality in such patients. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23, pp. S5‐S9, November 2012)
Alcohol Dependence and Criminal Behavior: Preliminary Results of an Association Study of Environmental and Genetic Factors in an Italian Male Population
Authors: Terranova Claudio , Tucci Marianna , Sartore Daniela , Cavarzeran Fabiano , Barzon Luisa , Palù Giorgio , Ferrara Santo D.
Published: August 2012

The aim of this study is to propose an innovative approach evaluating the connection between alcohol use disorders and criminal behavior. The research, structured as a case–control study, was based on the analysis of environmental (social variables) and genetic factors (single nucleotide polymorphisms of glutamic acid decarboxylase) in a population (N = 173) of Italian alcohol‐dependent men. Group 1 (N = 47, convicted subjects) was compared with Group 2 (N = 126, no previous criminal conduct). Grade repetition, work problems, and drug problems were statistically associated with criminal behavior. Having daily family meals together and having children were inversely related to convictions. The genotype distribution of the two groups was similar. The association between environmental factors and antisocial behavior confirms previous findings in the literature. The lack of genetic association does not exclude the role of the gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) system in determining antisocial behavior; further studies with larger samples are needed, together with investigation of other components of the GABA pathway.
A review of the consequences of complementary sex determination and diploid male production on mating failures in the Hymenoptera
Authors: Harpur Brock A. , Sobhani Mona , Zayed Amro
Published: August 2012

Complementary sex determination is the ancestral sex‐determination mechanism in the Hymenoptera. Under this system, diploid individuals develop into females if they are heterozygous at an autosomal sex‐determining locus or loci, whereas haploid individuals develop into males because they are hemizygous at the sex‐determining locus or loci. However, diploid males can still arise from fertilized eggs if such individuals are homozygous at the sex‐determining locus or loci. Diploid males are often viable but sire few daughters, thereby representing a substantial genetic load in hymenopteran populations. Here, we review the effects of complementary sex determination and diploid male production from the perspective of female hymenopterans. Because female hymenopterans need not mate to produce haploid sons, complementary sex determination can cause special forms of mating failures by preventing some females from controlling the sex ratio of their brood and producing the desired number of daughters. Under some circumstances, complementary sex determination can cause complete mating failure by preventing females from producing daughters altogether. Although we outline serious gaps of knowledge in the field, the data at hand suggest that diploid male production can substantially increase mating failures in small populations of economically and ecologically important hymenopterans.
Relationship between predation byPodisus nigrispinusand developmental phase and density of its prey,Plutella xylostella
Authors: Vacari Alessandra M. , De Bortoli Sergio A. , Torres Jorge B.
Published: August 2012

This study evaluated the predation byPodisus nigrispinus(Dallas) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) at various densities of larvae and pupae of the pestPlutella xylostella(L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae). We tested predator behavior of femaleP. nigrispinusat six experimental densities (1, 5, 10, 15, 20, or 25 prey items in a 1‐l transparent plastic container, replicated 15 times for each density) of both the fourth instar and pupae ofP. xylostella. The number of prey consumed was monitored every 15 min for 12 h and was subsequently monitored at 24 h.Podisusnigrispinusfemales were weighed before and after the experiments to determine the effect of different densities of prey on their weight gain. Female predators had a Type‐IIfunctional response, with attack rate estimated at 1.387 and 0.260 and a handling time of 0.091 and 0.183 h−1for larvae and pupae, respectively.Podisusnigrispinusconsumed on average 10.9 larvae or 5.5 pupae in 24 h. Despite the similarity of the response type,P. nigrispinuspreferred to feed on larvae, rather than on pupae.
Big Data in Astronomy
Authors: Feigelson Eric D. , Babu G. Jogesh
Published: August 2012

Astronomy has been one of the first areas of science to embrace and learn from big data. Eric D. Feigelson and G. Jogesh Babu tell of the efforts, the challenges, and some of the ways it is transforming our knowledge of the cosmos.
The Data Family
Authors: Roy Deb
Published: August 2012

A family in Massachusetts has become the most recorded in history. As children grow and learn, as parents tend and teach, cameras store every detail of their interactions and conversations. Julian Champkin heard Deb Roy talk about his family database and the insights it brings into how we learn language, not in a laboratory but in a real home.
Don't Drown in the Data
Authors: Emerson John W. , Kane Michael J.
Published: August 2012

Even experienced statisticians do not always have the expertise – or the equipment – to handle big data. John W. Emerson and Michael J. Kane give hints on how to get started.
Shortened Red Blood Cell Lifespan Is Related to the Dose of Erythropoiesis‐Stimulating Agents Requirement in Patients on Hemodialysis
Authors: Sato Yasuyuki , Mizuguchi Takashi , Shigenaga Sawako , Yoshikawa Etsuko , Chujo Keiko , Minakuchi Jun , Kawashima Syu
Published: August 2012

Renal anemia is an important complication of chronic kidney disease (CKD). One of the most important complications of renal anemia is reduced red blood cell (RBC) lifespan, but there has been little research conducted into the causes of and treatments for this anemia. We measured alveolar carbon monoxide (CO) and then estimated RBC lifespan in patients on hemodialysis (HD). We also examined their requirement for erythropoiesis‐stimulating agents (ESA), HD dose, nutrition factors, iron metabolism factor, reticulocyte counts and % reticulocytes. We enrolled 140 patients undergoing intermittent HD; among this group, 31 were not administered ESA and the others were on ESA therapy. Twelve healthy volunteers served as controls. The RBC lifespans in the healthy volunteers and in the HD patients were 128 ± 28 and 89 ± 28 days (mean ± SD), respectively. The RBC lifespan significantly and negatively correlated with ESA requirement (r = −0.489, P < 0.0001) in the HD patients. Other factors suspected to influence the RBC lifespan did not significantly correlate with the RBC lifespan in HD patients, in contrast to the correlation observed for S‐Cr, BUN, S‐ALB and total cholesterol vs. RBC lifespan. A shortened RBC lifespan seems to rather significantly affect the ESA requirement. Better nutritional status or active HD patients also seem to have longer RBC lifespans and lower ESA requirement.
Contribution of High Flux Membranes to the Therapy of Uremia‐Associated Dyslipidemia
Authors: Azak Alper , Huddam Bülent , Öneç Kürşad , Koçak Gülay , Dede Fatih , Aylı Deniz , Duranay Murat
Published: August 2012

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading causes of mortality in hemodialysis patients. Uremia induced hypertriglyceridemia; increased levels of lipoprotein remnants and low high‐density lipoprotein are the main features of cardiovascular risk factors. Also, elevated oxidative stress and inflammation are the main contributors of endothelial dysfunction. Even statin based interventional trials failed to improve mortality in dialysis patients, and different treatment options have been proved to be useful. We aimed to evaluate the effect of dialyzer type on uremia‐associated dyslipidemia and endothelial dysfunction. In total 312 patients were enrolled. The initial and 6th month blood samples were obtained from the non‐arteriovenous fistula arm on the day before the first hemodialysis session of the week. Flow mediated dilatation of the patients was measured from the same arm before obtaining the blood samples. Patients were on hemodialysis therapy for 76.43 ± 52.7 months. According to their dialyzer type, there has been a statistically significant improvement noted in terms of total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The flow mediated dilatation of the patients are measured as 4.3 ± 0.5 and 4.4 ± 0.4 in baseline measurements of the low flux and high flux groups, respectively. Sixth month values of the patients were measured as 4.34 ± 0.4 and 4.62 ± 0.6. The improvement in low flux groups was not statistically significant but in the high flux group the endothelial dysfunction was significantly improved. Our results show that high‐flux dialyzers improved dyslipidemia and endothelial dysfunction in hemodialysis patients. These findings provide a new insight on the selection of high efflux in hemodialysis.
Kinematic groups beyond the solar neighbourhood with RAVE
Authors: Antoja T. , Helmi A. , Bienayme O. , Bland-Hawthorn J. , Famaey B. , Freeman K. , Gibson B. K. , Gilmore G. , Grebel E. K. , Minchev I. , Munari U. , Navarro J. , Parker Q. , Reid W. , Seabroke G. M. , Siebert A. , Siviero A. , Steinmetz M. , Williams M. , Wyse R. , Zwitter T.
Published: August 2012

We analyse the kinematics of disc stars observed by the RAdial Velocity Experiment (RAVE) survey in and beyond the solar neighbourhood. We detect significant overdensities in the velocity distributions using a technique based on the wavelet transform. We find that the main local kinematic groups are large-scale features, surviving at least up to ∼1 kpc from the Sun in the direction of antirotation, and also at below the Galactic plane. We also find that for regions located at different radii than the Sun, the known groups appear shifted in the vR–vφ velocity plane. For example, the Hercules group has a larger azimuthal velocity for regions inside the solar circle and a lower value outside. We have also discovered a new group at in the solar neighbourhood and confirmed the significance of other previously found groups. Some of these trends detected for the first time are consistent with dynamical models of the effects of the bar and the spiral arms. More modelling is required to definitively characterize the non-axisymmetric components of our Galaxy using these groups.
Tapir health and conservation medicine
Authors: MANGINI Paulo Rogerio , MEDICI Emilia Patrícia , FERNANDES‐SANTOS Renata Carolina
Published: August 2012

Tapirs have unique nutritional needs, as well as anatomical, physiological, behavioral and ecological adaptations that must be considered when managing their health, both in the wild and in captivity. Information about how tapirs live in their natural habitats can provide crucial knowledge to prevent many of the health problems found in captivity such as infectious and parasitic diseases, reproductive issues and nutritional and behavioral disorders. Likewise, proper management in captivity can significantly contribute toin situconservation programs. Conservation medicine is a science created to address the global health crisis that jeopardizes biodiversity causing imbalances among ecosystem, human, animal and vegetal health. In this context, common threats to tapir health and conservation, such as isolated and small populations surrounded by human activity, chemical pollution, domestic animals and their pathogenic agents, need to be better understood. This manuscript provides information about the health of tapirs both in captivity and in the wild and aims to encourage tapir conservationists worldwide to gather information about pathogen and disease dynamics and manifestation, as well as implications for tapir conservation.
Screening for Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Great Danes in the United Kingdom
Authors: Stephenson H.M. , Fonfara S. , López‐Alvarez J. , Cripps P. , Dukes‐McEwan J.
Published: August 2012

Background

Great Danes (GD) are predisposed to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), but little is known about progression, clinical manifestations, or inheritance in dogs in the UK. For echocardiographic screening, breed‐specific reference intervals (RI) are required.

Objectives

To document the prevalence, clinical manifestations, and inheritance of DCM in UK GD. To establish RI for Doppler echocardiography (ECHO) in GD.

Animals

One hundred and seven client‐owned GDs.

Methods

Echocardiographic screening study. Dogs were scored on ECHO and ECG variables and classified as normal (NORM), equivocal (EQUIV), or affected (AFX). Forty NORM dogs were used to determine RI for ECHO. Pedigrees from all dogs were examined for mode of inheritance.

Results

The prevalence of DCM in this population, based on score, was 35.6%. Significant differences in M mode left ventricular dimensions (MMLVD) were identified between male and female dogs (P < .011). RI for MMLVD and transformed MMLVD (allometric scaling) were lower than previously suggested. When dogs were reclassified using amended RI for MMLVD, prevalence increased to 47%. End‐systolic volume index more reliably identified AFX dogs than other systolic function indices. Ventricular arrhythmias (VA) were commonly identified, with the highest prevalence in AFX dogs (54%). Pedigree analysis suggested an autosomal dominant mode of inheritance.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

The prevalence of DCM in UK GD is higher than previously reported and autosomal dominant inheritance is likely. Sex or body weight‐dependent RI should be used for ECHO in GD and current RI might underestimate ESVI in GD. VA might play an important role in GD with DCM.
Equine bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stromal cells (BMDMSCs) from the ilium and sternum: Are there differences?
Authors: Adams M. K. , Goodrich L. R. , Rao S. , Olea‐Popelka F. , Phillips N. , Kisiday J. D. , Mcilwraith C. W.
Published: August 2012

Reasons for performing study

The 2 sites of bone marrow harvest for isolation of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) in the horse are the sternum and ilium. The technical procedure is based on practitioner preference, but no studies have comparedMSCconcentrations and growth rates between the sites in horses aged 2–5 years.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to compare nucleated cell counts and growth rates between the sternum and ilium and between consecutive 5 ml bone marrow aspirates. We hypothesised that there would be a higher concentration ofMSCs in the sternum than the ilium, and that the first sequential aspirate from either site would yield the greatest concentration ofMSCs. We hypothesised that growth rates of cells from each site would not differ.

Methods

Seven horses, aged 2 to 5 years, had 2 sequential 5 ml marrow aspirates taken from the sternum and ilium. Nucleated cell counts (NCCs) were obtained before and after marrow processing. Cells were expanded in culture for 3 passages and growth rate characteristics compared for all aspirates.

Results

TheNCCs of the first 5 ml aspirate were higher than those of the second 5 ml aspirate for both sites (P<0.05). There was no difference between growth rates for any of the groups (P>0.05).

Conclusions

TheNCCs and growth rates of progenitor cells in the ilium and sternum are similar for horses in the 2–5 year age category. The first 5 ml bone marrow aspirate has a higher concentration ofNCCs and resulting bone marrow‐derivedMSCpopulation than subsequent aspirates.

Potential relevance

The first 5 ml aspirates from the sternum and ilium offer a rich supply of bone marrow‐derivedMSCs with similar growth rate characteristics. The harvesting procedure of only a 5 ml draw from either the sternum or ilium should result in adequate numbers ofMSCs.
Performance Analysis of the Low Temperature Solar-Boosted Power Generation System—Part II: Thermodynamic Characteristics of the Kalina Solar System
Authors: Sun Faming , Ikegami Yasuyuki , Arima Hirofumi , Zhou Weisheng
Published: August 2012

In part I of the current work, by quantitative analysis, Kalina solar system using traditional nonconcentrating evacuated tube solar collector (ETSC) with certain solar heat transfer rate is proposed as an optimal choice for its superior thermodynamic performance to generate electricity from low temperature solar energy. To better understand and utilize solar energy in Kalina cycle more efficiently, a thermodynamic qualitative analysis of the solar system is carried on in this part. Many thermodynamical parameters are investigated. Results show that the system pressure difference is one key factor for evaluating the power generation subcycle thermal efficiency, which is an important performance benchmark. Thus, through the instrumentality of simulation results, its corresponding relational expressions are developed by using fitting method. Further, a generalized estimating equation using to estimate generating capacity of the solar system is built. It is shown that when the Kalina solar system is designed and completed, its generating capacity can be estimated by using this equation. And then, a case study of Kalina solar system with 10,000 m2 ETSC is given with the aid of the weather conditions of Kumejima Island in Japan. In this case, its maximum annual power generation is estimated as 931,124 kW h, which is an ideal goal. Herefrom, the corresponding control strategies are proposed for approaching this target. Finally, thermodynamic characteristics of the low temperature Kalina solar system are clarified.
Mathematical Model for Face-Hobbed Straight Bevel Gears
Authors: Shih Yi-Pei
Published: August 2012

Face hobbing, a continuous indexing and double-flank cutting process, has become the leading method for manufacturing spiral bevel gears and hypoid gears because of its ability to support high productivity and precision. The method is unsuitable for cutting straight bevel gears, however, because it generates extended epicycloidal flanks. Instead, this paper proposes a method for fabricating straight bevel gears using a virtual hypocycloidal straight-line mechanism in which setting the radius of the rolling circle to equal half the radius of the base circle yields straight lines. This property can then be exploited to cut straight flanks on bevel gears. The mathematical model of a straight bevel gear is developed based on a universal face-hobbing bevel gear generator comprising three parts: a cutter head, an imaginary generating gear, and the motion of the imaginary generating gear relative to the work gear. The proposed model is validated numerically using the generation of face-hobbed straight bevel gears without cutter tilt. The contact conditions of the designed gear pairs are confirmed using the ease-off topographic method and tooth contact analysis (TCA), whose results can then be used as a foundation for further flank modification.
A Stochastic Tree-Search Algorithm for Generative Grammars1
Authors: Campbell Matthew I. , Rai Rahul , Kurtoglu Tolga
Published: August 2012

This paper presents a new search method that has been developed specifically for search trees defined by a generative grammar. Generative grammars are useful in design as a way to encapsulate the design decisions that lead to candidate solutions. Since the candidate solutions are not confined to a single configuration or topology and thus useful in conceptual design, they may be difficult to computationally analyze. Analysis is achieved in this method by querying the user. A formal definition of a rule-based interactive tree-search is presented in this paper. The user interaction is kept to 30 pair-wise comparisons of candidates. From the data gathered from the comparisons, a stochastic decision-making process infers what candidate solutions best match the known optimal. The method is implemented and applied to a grammar for tying neckties. It is shown through 21 user experiments and 4000 automated experiments that the method consistently finds solutions within the 99.8 percentile. The computational complexity of the proposed algorithm is also studied. The implications of this method for conceptual design are expounded on in the conclusions.
Taking the “Waste” Out of “Wastewater” for Human Water Security and Ecosystem Sustainability
Authors: Grant Stanley B. , Saphores Jean-Daniel , Feldman David L. , Hamilton Andrew J. , Fletcher Tim D. , Cook Perran L. M. , Stewardson Michael , Sanders Brett F. , Levin Lisa A. , Ambrose Richard F. , Deletic Ana , Brown Rebekah , Jiang Sunny C. , Rosso Diego , Cooper William J. , Marusic Ivan
Published: August 2012

Humans create vast quantities of wastewater through inefficiencies and poor management of water systems. The wasting of water poses sustainability challenges, depletes energy reserves, and undermines human water security and ecosystem health. Here we review emerging approaches for reusing wastewater and minimizing its generation. These complementary options make the most of scarce freshwater resources, serve the varying water needs of both developed and developing countries, and confer a variety of environmental benefits. Their widespread adoption will require changing how freshwater is sourced, used, managed, and priced.
Valorization of Biomass: Deriving More Value from Waste
Authors: Tuck Christopher O. , Pérez Eduardo , Horváth István T. , Sheldon Roger A. , Poliakoff Martyn
Published: August 2012

Most of the carbon-based compounds currently manufactured by the chemical industry are derived from petroleum. The rising cost and dwindling supply of oil have been focusing attention on possible routes to making chemicals, fuels, and solvents from biomass instead. In this context, many recent studies have assessed the relative merits of applying different dedicated crops to chemical production. Here, we highlight the opportunities for diverting existing residual biomass—the by-products of present agricultural and food-processing streams—to this end.
Fate-Restricted Neural Progenitors in the Mammalian Cerebral Cortex
Authors: Franco Santos J. , Gil-Sanz Cristina , Martinez-Garay Isabel , Espinosa Ana , Harkins-Perry Sarah R. , Ramos Cynthia , Müller Ulrich
Published: August 2012

Generating the Cortex

During development of the cerebral cortex, radial glial neural progenitor cells generate layer-specific subtypes of excitatory neurons in a defined temporal sequence, in which deep layers are formed before upper layers. The prevailing model for cortical neurogenesis over the last 20 years has been the common progenitor model, which proposes that the neurogenic potential of the radial glial cell is progressively restricted over time. In contrast to this model,

Franco
et al.

(p.
746
) now show that, in mice, two radial glial cell subtypes appear to be specified at the onset of cortical development: one for neurons of the evolutionarily older lower cortical layers and a second for the upper cortical layers that are present in placental mammals and are enlarged in primates, especially humans.
Preempting Pandemics
The Viral Storm
The Dawn of a New Pandemic Age

by Nathan Wolfe

Times Books (Holt), New York, 2011. 315 pp. $26, C$30. ISBN 9780805091946. Allen Lane, London. Paper, £14.99. ISBN 9781846142987.
Authors: Han Barbara A. , Rushmore Julie , Fritzsche Alexa , Satterfield Dara , Winternitz Jamie
Published: August 2012

After reviewing the threats posed by undiscovered viruses, Wolfe holds out hope that impressive advances in surveillance may help us avoid future pandemics.
Improving the Prospects
Breaking into the Lab
Engineering Progress for Women in Science

by Sue V. Rosser

New York University Press, New York, 2012. 261 pp. $35. ISBN 9780814776452.
Authors: Andersen Kristen
Published: August 2012

Rosser uses interviews with successful female scientists to explore ways to surmount the hurdles that women in science continue to face.
Modern-Day Waste Pickers
Authors: Mervis Jeffrey
Published: August 2012

People have been sifting through trash for as long as society has been producing waste. But to most people, it's all just trash.
Water Reclamation Going Green
Authors: Pennisi Elizabeth
Published: August 2012

Wastewater treatment plants are revamping themselves as resource recovery operations, saving—and even producing—energy and polluting less in the process.
Save Pave the World
Authors: Service Robert F.
Published: August 2012

Carbon dioxide may be the ultimate industrial waste product. Could tropical corals provide a trick for locking it away in our highways?
Interlaboratory Standardization of the Sandwich Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay Designed for MATS, a Rapid, Reproducible Method for Estimating the Strain Coverage of Investigational Vaccines
Authors: Plikaytis Brian D. , Stella Maria , Boccadifuoco Giuseppe , DeTora Lisa M. , Agnusdei Mauro , Santini Laura , Brunelli Brunella , Orlandi Luca , Simmini Isabella , Giuliani Marzia , Ledroit Morgan , Hong Eva , Taha Muhamed-Kheir , Ellie Kim , Rajam Gowrisankar , Carlone George M. , Claus Heike , Vogel Ulrich , Borrow Ray , Findlow Jamie , Gilchrist Stefanie , Stefanelli Paola , Fazio Cecilia , Carannante Anna , Oksnes Jan , Fritzsønn Elisabeth , Klem Anne-Marie , Caugant Dominique A. , Abad Raquel , Vázquez Julio A. , Rappuoli Rino , Pizza Mariagrazia , Donnelly John J. , Medini Duccio
Published: August 2012

The meningococcal antigen typing system (MATS) sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was designed to measure the immunologic cross-reactivity and quantity of antigens in target strains of a pathogen. It was first used to measure the factor H-binding protein (fHbp), neisserial adhesin A (NadA), and neisserial heparin-binding antigen (NHBA) content of serogroup B meningococcal (MenB) isolates relative to a reference strain, or “relative potency” (RP). With the PorA genotype, the RPs were then used to assess strain coverage by 4CMenB, a multicomponent MenB vaccine. In preliminary studies, MATS accurately predicted killing in the serum bactericidal assay using human complement, an accepted correlate of protection for meningococcal vaccines. A study across seven laboratories assessed the reproducibility of RPs for fHbp, NadA, and NHBA and established qualification parameters for new laboratories. RPs were determined in replicate for 17 MenB reference strains at laboratories A to G. The reproducibility of RPs among laboratories and against consensus values across laboratories was evaluated using a mixed-model analysis of variance. Interlaboratory agreement was very good; the Pearson correlation coefficients, coefficients of accuracy, and concordance correlation coefficients exceeded 99%. The summary measures of reproducibility, expressed as between-laboratory coefficients of variation, were 7.85% (fHbp), 16.51% (NadA), and 12.60% (NHBA). The overall within-laboratory measures of variation adjusted for strain and laboratory were 19.8% (fHbp), 28.8% (NHBA), and 38.3% (NadA). The MATS ELISA was successfully transferred to six laboratories, and a further laboratory was successfully qualified.
Relapse of Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis after Influenza Vaccination in a Patient Receiving Tocilizumab
Authors: Shimizu Masaki , Ueno Kazuyuki , Yachie Akihiro
Published: August 2012

We report the case of a patient with systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (s-JIA) receiving tocilizumab (TCZ) who experienced relapses of s-JIA after receiving influenza vaccination. Systemic symptoms of s-JIA might be masked during TCZ therapy. Careful observation with the monitoring of serum interleukin (IL)-18 and IL-6 levels may be useful.
Microsatellite Genotyping Clarified Conspicuous Accumulation of Candida parapsilosis at a Cardiothoracic Surgery Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Diab-Elschahawi Magda , Forstner Christina , Hagen Ferry , Meis Jacques F. , Lassnig Andrea M. , Presterl Elisabeth , Klaassen Corné H. W.
Published: August 2012

Candida parapsilosis
has become a significant cause of invasive fungal infections in seriously ill patients. Nosocomial outbreaks through direct and indirect contact have been described. The aim of this study was the molecular characterization of what appeared to be an ongoing
C. parapsilosis
outbreak at the cardiothoracic intensive care unit of the University Hospital of Vienna between January 2007 and December 2008. Using two different molecular typing methods—automated repetitive sequence-based PCR (DiversiLab; bioMérieux) and microsatellite genotyping—we investigated the genetic relationship of 99
C. parapsilosis
isolates. Eighty-three isolates originated from the cardiothoracic intensive care unit, while 16 isolates were random control isolates from other intensive care units and a different Austrian hospital. The 99
C. parapsilosis
isolates analyzed by repetitive-element PCR all showed identical genotypes, suggesting an ongoing outbreak. In contrast, microsatellite genotyping showed a total of 56 different genotypes. Two major genotypes were observed in 10 and 15 isolates, respectively, whereas another 13 genotypes were observed in 2 to 4 isolates each. Forty-one genotypes were observed only once. Closely related genotypes that differed in only a single microsatellite marker were grouped into clonal complexes. When it comes to
C. parapsilosis
, microsatellite genotyping is a more discriminative method than repetitive-element PCR genotyping to investigate outbreaks.
Clonal Distribution of Common Pneumococcal Serotypes Not Included in the 7-Valent Conjugate Vaccine (PCV7): Marked Differences between Two Ethnic Populations in Southern Israel
Authors: Porat Nurith , Benisty Rachel , Trefler Ronit , Givon-Lavi Noga , Dagan Ron
Published: August 2012

This study aimed to compare the clonal distribution of common pneumococcal strains not included in the 7-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV7) that were isolated from cases of acute otitis media (AOM) and invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) in two distinct ethnic populations in southern Israel during the decade (1999 to 2008) preceding PCV7 implementation. Isolates recovered from Jewish and Bedouin children <5 years old were characterized by antibiotic resistance and molecular epidemiology using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis and multilocus sequence typing. Of 5,236 AOM and 425 IPD isolates, 43% and 57% were from Jewish and Bedouin children, respectively. PCV7 accounted for 54% and 45% of the AOM and IPD episodes, respectively. Eleven major non-PCV7 serotypes (1, 3, 5, 6A, 7F, 12F, 15B/C, 19A, 21, 33F, and 35B) constituted 31% and 42% of the AOM and IPD episodes, respectively. The clonal distributions of the 11 non-PCV7 serotypes and their antibiotic susceptibilities were significantly different among the two ethnic populations in both the AOM and IPD groups. About half of the AOM and IPD cases resulted from non-PCV7 pneumococci, even before PCV7 implementation. The significant differences between the two ethnic populations suggest that lifestyle and microenvironment are major determinants in the clonal distribution of disease-causing pneumococci. Post-PCV7 surveillance is important in understanding non-PCV7 clonal expansion in the two distinct populations.
A PCR-Based Intergenic Spacer Region-Capillary Gel Electrophoresis Typing Method for Identification and Subtyping of Nocardia Species
Authors: Wehrhahn M. C. , Xiao M. , Kong F. , Xu Y.-C. , Chen S.C.-A.
Published: August 2012

While 16S rRNA sequence-based identification of
Nocardia
species has become the gold standard, it is not without its limitations. We evaluated a novel approach encompassing the amplification of the
Nocardia
16S-23S rRNA intergenic spacer (IGS) region followed by fragment analysis by capillary gel electrophoresis (CGE) of the amplified product for species identification of
Nocardia
. One hundred forty-five
Nocardia
isolates (19 species) and four non-
Nocardia
aerobic actinomycetes were studied. Reproducibility testing was performed in a subset (21%) of isolates. Ninety-five different electropherograms were identified, with heterogeneity within species being a general observation. Among common
Nocardia
species (e.g.,
Nocardia cyriacigeorgica
,
N. nova
,
N. farcinica
), 2 or 3 dominant electropherogram subgroups were typical. While only a minority (8/19; 42%) of the different
Nocardia
species contained isolates displaying unique fragment sizes that were predictive of a particular species, virtually all isolates (142/145; 98%) could be assigned to the correct species using IGS-CGE typing based on the number and size of amplified fragments. The median number of fragments for each isolate was 2 (range, 1 to 5) with only a minority (17%) having a single fragment detected. The majority (93%) of amplified fragments were between 408 and 461 bp. The technique was also non-operator dependent, highly reproducible, and quicker and less expensive than 16S sequencing. In summary, PCR-based IGS-CGE typing is relatively simple, accurate, reproducible, and cost-effective and offers a potential alternative to 16S rRNA sequencing for identifying and subtyping
Nocardia
isolates.
Comparison of the GenMark Diagnostics eSensor Respiratory Viral Panel to Real-Time PCR for Detection of Respiratory Viruses in Children
Authors: Pierce Virginia M. , Hodinka Richard L.
Published: August 2012

A novel eSensor respiratory viral panel (eSensor RVP) multiplexed nucleic acid amplification test (GenMark Diagnostics, Inc., Carlsbad, CA) was compared to laboratory-developed real-time PCR assays for the detection of various respiratory viruses. A total of 250 frozen archived pediatric respiratory specimens previously characterized as either negative or positive for one or more viruses by real-time PCR were examined using the eSensor RVP. Overall agreement between the eSensor RVP and corresponding real-time PCR assays for shared analytes was 99.2% (kappa = 0.96 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 0.94 to 0.98]). The combined positive percent agreement was 95.4% (95% CI, 92.5 to 97.3); the negative percent agreement was 99.7% (95% CI, 99.4 to 99.8). The mean real-time PCR threshold cycle (CT) value for specimens with discordant results was 39.73 (95% CI, 38.03 to 41.43). Detection of coinfections and correct identification of influenza A virus subtypes were comparable between methods. Of note, the eSensor RVP rhinovirus assay was found to be more sensitive and specific than the corresponding rhinovirus real-time PCR. In contrast, the eSensor RVP adenovirus B, C, and E assays demonstrated some cross-reactivity when tested against known adenovirus serotypes representing groups A through F. The eSensor RVP is robust and relatively easy to perform, it involves a unique biosensor technology for target detection, and its multiplexed design allows for efficient and simultaneous interrogation of a single specimen for multiple viruses. Potential drawbacks include a slower turnaround time and the need to manipulate amplified product during the protocol, increasing the possibility of contamination.
Identification of Blood Culture Isolates Directly from Positive Blood Cultures by Use of Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization–Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry and a Commercial Extraction System: Analysis of Performance, Cost, and Turnaround Time
Authors: Lagacé-Wiens Philippe R. S. , Adam Heather J. , Karlowsky James A. , Nichol Kimberly A. , Pang Paulette F. , Guenther Jodi , Webb Amanda A. , Miller Crystal , Alfa Michelle J.
Published: August 2012

Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry represents a revolution in the rapid identification of bacterial and fungal pathogens in the clinical microbiology laboratory. Recently, MALDI-TOF has been applied directly to positive blood culture bottles for the rapid identification of pathogens, leading to reductions in turnaround time and potentially beneficial patient impacts. The development of a commercially available extraction kit (Bruker Sepsityper) for use with the Bruker MALDI BioTyper has facilitated the processing required for identification of pathogens directly from positive from blood cultures. We report the results of an evaluation of the accuracy, cost, and turnaround time of this method for 61 positive monomicrobial and 2 polymicrobial cultures representing 26 species. The Bruker MALDI BioTyper with the Sepsityper gave a valid (score, >1.7) identification for 85.2% of positive blood cultures with no misidentifications. The mean reduction in turnaround time to identification was 34.3 h (
P
< 0.0001) in the ideal situation where MALDI-TOF was used for all blood cultures and 26.5 h in a more practical setting where conventional identification or identification from subcultures was required for isolates that could not be directly identified by MALDI-TOF. Implementation of a MALDI-TOF-based identification system for direct identification of pathogens from blood cultures is expected to be associated with a marginal increase in operating costs for most laboratories. However, the use of MALDI-TOF for direct identification is accurate and should result in reduced turnaround time to identification.
Complete Genome Sequence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Siphophage MP1412
Authors: Bae Hee-Won , Chung In-Young , Sim Nuri , Cho You-Hee
Published: August 2012

We report the complete genome sequence of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
siphophage MP1412, which displays synteny to those of
P. aeruginosa
phages M6 and YuA. However, the presence of two homing endonucleases of the GIY-YIG family is unique to MP1412, suggesting their unique role in the phage life cycle of the bacterial host.
Complete Genome Sequence of Bacteriophage BC-611 Specifically Infecting Enterococcus faecalis Strain NP-10011
Authors: Horiuchi Tomohiro , Sakka Makiko , Hayashi Atsushi , Shimada Takashi , Kimura Tetsuya , Sakka Kazuo
Published: August 2012

Enterococcus faecalis
is an opportunistic pathogen that causes serious infections in humans and animals and is also an important bacterium for dairy and probiotic supplement production. Therefore, bacteriophages infecting
E. faecalis
may be useful for phage therapy against multidrug-resistant strains or may threaten industrial fermentation. We isolated a virulent
Siphoviridae
bacteriophage, BC-611, specifically infecting
E. faecalis
strain NP-10011 but not infecting other
E. faecalis
strains or other enterococci. Although the genome sequence of BC-611 resembled that of enterococcal bacteriophage SAP6, BC-611 was marked by its narrow host specificity.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Novel Pararetrovirus Isolated from Soybean
Authors: Han Junping , Domier Leslie L. , Dorrance Anne , Qu Feng
Published: August 2012

We report the complete genome sequence of soybean Putnam virus (SPuV), a new pararetrovirus isolated from a soybean field in Putnam County, OH. Comparison of SPuV with other plant-infecting pararetroviruses places it in the genus
Caulimovirus
of the family
Caulimoviridae
.
Arenavirus Infection Induces Discrete Cytosolic Structures for RNA Replication
Authors: Baird Nicholas L. , York Joanne , Nunberg Jack H.
Published: August 2012

Arenaviruses are responsible for acute hemorrhagic fevers with high mortality and pose significant threats to public health and biodefense. These enveloped negative-sense RNA viruses replicate in the cell cytoplasm and express four proteins. To better understand how these proteins insinuate themselves into cellular processes to orchestrate productive viral replication, we have identified and characterized novel cytosolic structures involved in arenavirus replication and transcription. In cells infected with the nonpathogenic Tacaribe virus or the attenuated Candid#1 strain of Junín virus, we find that newly synthesized viral RNAs localize to cytosolic puncta containing the nucleoprotein (N) of the virus. Density gradient centrifugation studies reveal that these replication-transcription complexes (RTCs) are associated with cellular membranes and contain full-length genomic- and antigenomic-sense RNAs. Viral mRNAs segregate at a higher buoyant density and are likewise scant in immunopurified RTCs, consistent with their translation on bulk cellular ribosomes. In addition, confocal microscopy analysis reveals that RTCs contain the lipid phosphatidylinositol-4-phosphate and proteins involved in cellular mRNA metabolism, including the large and small ribosomal subunit proteins L10a and S6, the stress granule protein G3BP1, and a subset of translation initiation factors. Elucidating the structure and function of RTCs will enhance our understanding of virus-cell interactions that promote arenavirus replication and mitigate against host cell immunity. This knowledge may lead to novel intervention strategies to limit viral virulence and pathogenesis.
An unusual mechanism of ocular trauma in badminton players: two incidental cases
Authors: Khandelwal Rekha , Majumdar Mohana Raja , Gupta Archana
Published: August 2012

Badminton is a famous sport usually played without any protective eyewear. Ocular injury from one's own partner in a doubles game, with the shuttlecock, is rare. Two untrained badminton players presented with severe ocular trauma during a smash shot from the partner in a ‘doubles’ game. Both the players developed blind eye (vision <3/60) in spite of immediate treatment. This article describes an unusual mode of severe blunt trauma with a shuttlecock while playing a ‘doubles’ game, leading to coup-countercoup injury. In addition, the article highlights the need for awareness of the fatal ocular complications and life-long visual disability, especially in untrained badminton enthusiasts.
Tuberous sclerosis complex presenting as bilateral large renal angiomyolipomas
Authors: Redkar Neelam , Patil Meenakshi Amit , Dhakate Tushar , Kolhe Prasad
Published: August 2012

Tuberous sclerosis is an inherited disorder that can present with seizures, mental retardation, cutaneous lesions and visceral hamartomas, but can be entirely asymptomatic. The disease occurs in 1:100 000 persons in all races with nearly equal distribution between the sexes. Tuberous sclerosis is often associated with renal angiomyolipomas (AMLs), which occur in up to 80% of these patients. Here we report a case of a patient who presented with bilateral large renal AMLs and was detected to have tuberous sclerosis complex.