bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of the rs738409 polymorphism in patatin‐like phospholipase 3 on the treatment efficacy of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Kan Hiromi , Hyogo Hideyuki , Ochi Hidenori , Hotta Kikuko , Fukuhara Takayuki , Kobayashi Tomoki , Naeshiro Noriaki , Honda Yohji , Kawaoka Tomokazu , Tsuge Masataka , Hiramatsu Akira , Imamura Michio , Kawakami Yoshiiku , Aikata Hiroshi , Chayama Kazuaki
Published: July 2015

Aim

A genome‐wide association study revealed that the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs738409 in the patatin‐like phospholipase 3 gene (PNPLA3) was strongly associated with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Recent pilot studies investigated the effects of dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors on liver function and glucose metabolism in NAFLD with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). We herein evaluated the efficacy of alogliptin in NAFLD patients with type 2 DM as well as the relationship between genotypes at rs738409 in PNPLA3 and treatment efficacy.

Methods

Forty‐one biopsy‐proven NAFLD patients with type 2 DM treated with 25 mg/day alogliptin were retrospectively enrolled. SNP rs738409 in PNPLA3 was present in all patients. Clinical data were measured before and after the treatment.

Results

Average hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels mostly remained unchanged. Moreover, significant changes were not noted in the levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) during the follow‐up period. A positive correlation was observed between improvements in HbA1c (ΔHbA1c) levels and changes in AST (ΔAST) and ALT (ΔALT) levels (r = 0.325 and 0.439, respectively). Patients with the risk allele (G‐allele) showed more positive correlation between ΔHbA1c and changes in transaminase. Furthermore, improvements in the levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides and hyaluronic acid were significantly greater in G‐allele patients in the weight loss group.

Conclusion

The treatment of NAFLD with type 2 DM with alogliptin contributed to the amelioration of NAFLD. Our results suggested that differences in the PNPLA3 risk allele affected the therapeutic effects of this treatment.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) with melanocytic mucosal macules: the role of STK11 gene polymorphisms in PCOS and Peutz–Jeghers syndrome
Authors: Smith Kathleen J. , Germain Marguerite
Published: July 2015

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex genetic disorder that is the most common endocrinopathy that affects women.

Observations

We report two individuals with PCOS with a genetic polymorphism in serine threonine kinase 11 (STK11). Both these individuals developed mucosal pigmentation suggesting Peutz–Jeghers syndrome (PJS), which is associated with mutations in STK11. Both individuals showed some improvement in their metabolic and endocrine dysregulation with therapies commonly used for PCOS. However, they continued to show progression of mucosa pigmentation.

Conclusions

This is the first report of clinical overlap in individuals with PCOS and PJS, even though some individuals with PCOS show a polymorphism in STK11, which is the gene mutated in PJS. The importance of this clinical association is not clear but may be significant because of the association of STK11 dysregulation and the development of internal tumors.
Remitting seronegative symmetrical synovitis with pitting edema associated with parvovirus B19 infection: two new cases and review of the comorbidities
Authors: Drago Francesco , Ciccarese Giulia , Agnoletti Arianna F. , Cogorno Ludovica , Muda Alessandro , Cozzani Emanuele , Parodi Aurora
Published: July 2015

Background

Remitting seronegative symmetrical synovitis with pitting edema (RS3PE) is a rare syndrome consisting of acute symmetrical tenosynovitis of the hands and wrists associated with pain and marked pitting edema of the dorsum of the hands or the feet. Persistent rheumatoid factor seronegativity and elevated acute phase reactants are the rule, while radiographic findings are characterized by the absence of bony erosions. The syndrome has occasionally been associated with a wide range of diseases including solid and hematological malignancies, polymyalgia rheumatica, and other inflammatory rheumatic diseases.

Methods

Two patients with skin eruption on hands and feet associated with arthromyalgias have been investigated to confirm diagnosis of RS3PE and to detect comorbidities. A revision of all the possible medical conditions correlated to RS3PE has been performed.

Results

We report two cases of RS3PE associated with Parvovirus B19 infection/reactivation. There are very few reports on the association between RS3PE and infectious agents, and in only one case the syndrome has been correlated to parvovirus infection.

Conclusions

We want to underline the importance for patients with RS3PE to be seen by dermatologists who should become familiar with this syndrome and remark that Parvovirus B19 infection may be a potential cause of RS3PE.
Correlations between clinical and pathological features in 17 cases of mycosis fungoides before and after transformation
Authors: Bittencourt Achiléa L. , Oliveira Pedro D. , Carvalho‐Andrade Agnes , Araújo Iguaracyra
Published: July 2015

Background

Mycosis fungoides (MF) may progress to transformed MF (T‐MF), a condition with aggressive behavior.

Objectives

This study was designed to compare the clinical and pathological features of biopsies in 17 cases of MF before and after transformation.

Methods

During a revision of primary cutaneous T cell lymphomas, 53 cases of MF were identified, including 17 cases of T‐MF. Clinical, pathological, and immunohistochemical data for the MF patients were evaluated. Cases of T‐MF and intermediate transformed (IT) MF were diagnosed according to previous criteria. The histological and immunohistochemical features of T‐MF biopsies were compared with those of MF/IT‐MF biopsies taken before or concomitant with transformation.

Results

At the initial diagnosis, three patients were found to have more advanced stages of disease: two had MF and T‐MF simultaneously, and another had only oral T‐MF. Four patients considered to show histological transformation maintained disease stages Ia and Ib and all remain alive. Of five patients with IT‐MF at first diagnosis, all progressed to complete histological transformation, three developed tumors, and two died of disease. Four patients progressed to CD30+ large cell lymphoma, and three of these died of disease. In one of these patients, the MF biopsy showed a high level of expression of CD30 in the epidermis and dermis.

Conclusions

No correlation between advanced MF and expression of CD25 and CD30, or frequency of Ki‐67+ cells was found. The frequency of transformation among patients with initially non‐transformed MF was high. Our findings support the emphasis given by other authors to IT‐MF, a pattern of MF which is generally not considered in many studies.
Ocular findings in alopecia areata
Authors: Ergin Can , Acar Mutlu , Kaya Akış Havva , Gönül Müzeyyen , Gürdal Canan
Published: July 2015

Alopecia areata is a T cell mediated disease with which many disorders may be associated. There are few studies reporting ocular findings in alopecia areata. The aim of the study is to assess tear function and ocular surface pathologies in alopecia areata. Thirty‐two patients with alopecia areata and 20 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls were enrolled in the study. Ocular surface disease index questionnaire, Schirmer, tear break‐up time, and corneal staining stage tests were done. The data was analyzed using SPSS 10.0 software. One‐way variance analysis and Chi‐square tests were used as tests of significance. The patient group had significantly higher ocular surface disease index questionnaire and corneal staining stage test scores and lower tear break‐up time test scores compared with the control group (P < 0.05). Dry eye disease (DED) was diagnosed in 27 (84%) of 32 alopecia areata patients and in only 3 (15%) of 20 controls, and there was a significant difference between the groups (P < 0.01). T cell mediated autoimmunity has a prominent role in the etiopathogenesis of alopecia areata and dry eye disease. We think that inflammatory mechanisms causing alopecia areata may trigger dry eye disease or vice versa. All patients with AA should be referred to an ophthalmologist for the evaluation of DED and other possible eye pathologies.
Oral lichen planus: an update on its pathogenesis
Authors: Nogueira Patrícia A. , Carneiro Sueli , Ramos‐e‐Silva Marcia
Published: July 2015

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a common T cell‐mediated mucocutaneous disease of unknown etiology. A great number of factors have been suggested as relevant to the etiology of this disease. In this article, the authors assemble recent knowledge about the pathogenesis of OLP, discuss some proposed hypotheses, and compare OLP with oral lichenoid lesions.
Serum levels of alpha‐1 acid glycoprotein and pentraxin 3 in patients with Behçet's disease and relationship with disease activity
Authors: Yazmalar Levent , Batmaz İbrahim , Sula Bilal , Alpaycı Mahmut , Aydın Fatma , Türkçü Fatih , Yıldız Mehmet , Kaplan İbrahim , Bozkurt Mehtap , Dağlı Abdullah Zubeyr , Burkan Yahya Kemal , Sarıyıldız Mustafa Akif
Published: July 2015

Background

To evaluate the relationship between disease activity and levels of alpha 1‐acid glycoprotein and pentraxin 3 in patients with Behçet's disease (BD).

Methods

Forty‐eight patients with BD and 29 age‐ and gender‐matched healthy control subjects were included in the study. Serum pentraxin 3 levels were measured using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ng/ml), and alpha 1‐acid glycoprotein levels were measured using nephelometry (mg/dl). Disease activity was assessed using the BD Current Activity Form (BDCAF).

Results

Serum alpha‐1 acid glycoprotein levels were significantly higher in patients with BD compared to the control group (P = 0.048). There were no significant differences between two groups in terms of levels of pentraxin 3 (P = 0.697). According to Pearson's analysis, alpha 1‐acid levels are significantly positively correlated with erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C‐reactive protein, and skin lesions and arthritis of BDCAF scores. Pentraxin 3 levels did not correlate with erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C‐reactive protein, or any domains of BDCAF scores.

Conclusion

The results of the present study demonstrate that serum levels of alpha‐1 acid glycoprotein were significantly higher in patients with BD relative to the control group. Alpha‐1 acid glycoprotein is greatly associated with skin lesions and arthritis in patients with BD. We did not find high serum levels of PTX3 in patients with BD compared to healthy controls, and pentraxin 3 is not associated with disease activity in BD.
Indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase depletes tryptophan, activates general control non‐derepressible 2 kinase and down‐regulates key enzymes involved in fatty acid synthesis in primary human CD4+ T cells
Authors: Eleftheriadis Theodoros , Pissas Georgios , Antoniadi Georgia , Liakopoulos Vassilios , Stefanidis Ioannis
Published: July 2015

Indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase (IDO) is expressed in antigen‐presenting cells and exerts immunosuppressive effects on CD4+ T cells. One mechanism is through the inhibition of aerobic glycolysis. Another prerequisite for T‐cell proliferation and differentiation into effector cells is increased fatty acid (FA) synthesis. The effect of IDO on enzymes involved in FA synthesis was evaluated in primary human cells both in mixed lymphocyte reactions in the presence or not of the IDO inhibitor 1‐dl‐methyl‐tryptophan, and in stimulated CD4+ T cells in the presence or not of the general control non‐derepressible 2 (GCN2) kinase activator tryptophanol (TRP). IDO or TRP inhibited cell proliferation. By assessing the level of GCN2 kinase or mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 substrates along with a kynurenine free system we showed that IDO exerts its effect mainly through activation of GCN2 kinase. IDO or TRP down‐regulated ATP‐citrate lyase and acetyl coenzyme A carboxylase 1, key enzymes involved in FA synthesis. Also, IDO or TRP altered the expression of enzymes that control the availability of carbon atoms for FA synthesis, such as lactate dehydrogenase‐A, pyruvate dehydrogenase, glutaminase 1 and glutaminase 2, in a way that inhibits FA synthesis. In conclusion, IDO through GCN2 kinase activation inhibits CD4+ T‐cell proliferation and down‐regulates key enzymes that directly or indirectly promote FA synthesis, a prerequisite for CD4+ T‐cell proliferation and differentiation into effector cell lineages.
Observed child and parent toothbrushing behaviors and child oral health
Authors: Collett Brent R. , Huebner Colleen E. , Seminario Ana Lucia , Wallace Erin , Gray Kristen E. , Speltz Matthew L.
Published: July 2015

Background

Parent‐led toothbrushing effectively reduces early childhood caries. Research on the strategies that parents use to promote this behavior is, however, lacking.

Aim

To examine associations between parent–child toothbrushing interactions and child oral health using a newly developed measure, the Toothbrushing Observation System (TBOS).

Design

One hundred children ages 18–60 months and their parents were video‐recorded during toothbrushing interactions. Using these recordings, six raters coded parent and child behaviors and the duration of toothbrushing. We examined the reliability of the coding system and associations between observed parent and child behaviors and three indices of oral health: caries, gingival health, and history of dental procedures requiring general anesthesia.

Results

Reliabilities were moderate to strong for TBOS child and parent scores. Parent TBOS scores and longer duration of parent‐led toothbrushing were associated with fewer decayed, missing or filled tooth surfaces and lower incidence of gingivitis and procedures requiring general anesthesia. Associations between child TBOS scores and dental outcomes were modest, suggesting the relative importance of parent versus child behaviors at this early age.

Conclusions

Parents' child behavior management skills and the duration of parent‐led toothbrushing were associated with better child oral health. These findings suggest that parenting skills are an important target for future behavioral oral health interventions.
Can the Child Health Utility 9D measure be useful in oral health research?
Authors: Foster Page Lyndie A. , Beckett Deanna M. , Cameron Claire M. , Thomson W. Murray
Published: July 2015

Background

Cost‐utility analysis using the quality‐adjusted life years (QALY) as an outcome measure to inform healthcare resource allocation is becoming more common. The Child Health Utility 9D (CHU9D) enables the calculation of utility values in children. Children were involved throughout its development to ensure it is child centred.

Aim

To determine whether the CHU9D is responsive to the changing components of the dmfs+DMFS index score in children receiving dental care over a 1‐year period.

Design

The study sample comprised children aged 6 to 9 years old who were enrolled in a split‐mouth, placebo‐controlled randomised controlled trial. All children had a comprehensive clinical examination including radiographs and health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) was measured using the CHU9D at baseline and 1 year. Descriptive statistics was followed by bivariate analyses before effect sizes were calculated. A negative binomial model was fitted to assess whether the utility score predicted the components of decayed and filled teeth (combined primary and permanent teeth).

Results

Eighty (92%) children completed the CHU9D at baseline and follow‐up. They presented with a mean baseline d3mfs+D3MFS of 6.7 (SD = 7.1), which rose to 7.3 (SD = 7.0) at follow‐up. The mean CHU9D score improved from 0.88 to 0.90 from baseline to follow‐up. No statistically significant relationships were found between caries status and the CHU9D score.

Conclusion

The CHU9D was found to be unresponsive to the changing components of dental caries experience.
‘Volumetric analysis of hand and rotary root canal instrumentation and filling in primary teeth using Spiral Computed Tomography’ – an invitro study
Authors: Poornima Parameswarappa , Disha Patil , Nagaveni Nandanhosur Basavanthappa , Roopa KirishettaR Basavaraj , Bharath Kashetty Panchakshari , Neena Indavara Edagunji
Published: July 2015

Aim

To compare and evaluate the volumetric analysis of pre‐ and post‐root canal instrumentation in primary teeth using hand and rotary files and also to analyse the volume of root canal filling.

Materials and methods

A total of 20 primary teeth were divided into two groups randomly and subjected to spiral computed tomography (SCT) analysis before and after instrumentation. For manual technique (Group 1), teeth were prepared using K files and rotary (Group 2) preparation was performed with Mtwo files. Volumetric enlargement was calculated using Osirix software. Root canals were then filled with rotary lentulospiral using zinc oxide–eugenol cement (ZOE). The filled volume in each canal was measured using SCT and the percentage of obturated volume was calculated. The data were statistically analysed using paired t‐tests.

Results

There was a statistically significant difference in the volume of root canal enlarged in both the groups. Rotary files showed significant increase in the volume compared to K files. Mtwo instrumented root canals showed good obturated volume compared to manual technique, although voids were common in both the groups.

Conclusion

Rotary root canal instrumentation may be indicated for utilization in primary teeth, for enhancing root canal preparation and good quality of root canal filling.
Dental findings in Brazilian patients with Fanconi syndrome
Authors: Ferreira Shirlene B. P. , de Aquino Sibele N. , Pereira Paula Cristina B. , Simões e Silva Ana Cristina , Martelli‐Júnior Hercílio
Published: July 2015

Background

Fanconi syndrome (FS) is a generalized dysfunction of renal proximal tubules resulting in impaired reabsorption of amino acids, phosphate, urate, bicarbonate, glucose, and electrolytes. FS can be a primary renal impairment due to genetic origin or secondary to inborn errors of metabolism or systemic diseases. Main clinical findings are polyuria, failure to thrive, rickets/osteomalacia, metabolic acidosis, bone deformities, and, occasionally, nephrocalcinosis. Although dental abnormalities have been reported in patients with tubulopathies, oral manifestations in FS were very rarely described.

Case report

Two patients with FS exhibiting important dental alterations were reported. Oral examination of the first patient revealed teeth with rough surfaces and white opaque areas. Early loss of primary teeth and delayed eruption of permanent teeth were also observed. Oral examination of the second patient detected delayed eruption of permanent teeth and X‐ray images revealed loss of contrast between enamel and dentin. In both patients with FS, loss of bone density in maxilla and mandible was observed in X‐ray images.

Conclusions

This study is the first report of dental abnormalities in Brazilian patients with FS. Furthermore, our findings support the general idea that renal tubular disorders might impact on mineralized tissues of the oral cavity.
Pressure production in oral vestibule during gum chewing
Authors: Nishiura M. , Ono T. , Yoshinaka M. , Fujiwara S. , Yoshinaka M. , Maeda Y.
Published: July 2015

The aim of this study was to record oral vestibule pressure (OVP) by the lip and cheek contraction during gum chewing, to examine the characteristics of these pressures and coordination between the OVP and jaw movement. The subjects were eight healthy adult men (mean age of 29·3 ± 3·3 years). An experimental plate that incorporated four pressure sensors on the midline of the upper jaw (Ch. 1), upper right canine (Ch. 2), upper right first molar (Ch. 3) and upper left first molar (Ch. 4) was used for measuring OVP. The right masseter electromyogram (EMG) was recorded simultaneously. Subjects chewed gum on the right side 20 times, and eight consecutive strokes were used for the analysis of the sequential order, maximal magnitude and duration of each OVP. Onset of OVP was observed at the molar on the non‐chewing side (Ch. 4) before chewing side (Ch. 3), and offset was largely simultaneous at each site. On the chewing side (Chs. 1–3), OVP onset during the interval of EMG activity reached to the peak around the end of interval and offset in the duration of EMG activity. The maximal pressure was significantly larger at Chs. 1–3 than at Ch. 4, but no significant differences were observed in duration of pressure among each site. These results suggest that OVP is coordinated with jaw movement during gum chewing, and larger pressure is produced on the chewing side than on the non‐chewing side. Our findings are quantitative indices for the evaluation of lip and cheek function during mastication.
Multi‐species competition experiments with peatland bryophytes
Authors: Udd Daniel , Sundberg Sebastian , Rydin Håkan
Published: July 2015

Question

Species interactions are one of the processes determining composition of plant communities. We used the community density series method to study competition in a multi‐species community of bryophytes common in calcareous fens. The succession of mires is driven by Sphagnum species, which are supposedly superior to brown mosses in competition for resources and space, but little is known about the environmental conditions in which brown mosses can prevail when subject to neighbour interactions. How are interactions among peatland bryophytes affected by the environment?

Location

Field and garden experiments near Uppsala in mid‐eastern Sweden.

Methods

To examine the effects of environment on competition and competitive hierarchies we assembled multi‐species communities of ten bryophyte species from shoot fragments (brown mosses and Sphagnum species) at two densities and grew them on three types of peat (representing poor, intermediate and rich fens) under dry or wet conditions in a garden experiment and along pH and wetness gradients in the field.

Results

A multivariate analysis of the garden experiment showed that community composition was affected by peat type and wetness and their interactions. The brown mosses performed better in wet and rich fens, the Sphagnum species in drier and poorer fens. The Sphagnum species were overall the best competitors.

Conclusions

The experiments demonstrated contrasting responses of brown mosses and Sphagnum to properties of the microhabitat. Sphagnum species were generally less affected by competition than the brown mosses. Sphagnum species were competitive in habitats typically dominated by brown mosses and even responded positively to crowding. This can explain why Sphagnum can invade calcareous fens. In contrast, brown mosses performed poorly in habitats more typical of Sphagnum species.
Establishment and effectiveness of inoculated arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in agricultural soils
Authors: Köhl Luise , Lukasiewicz Catherine E. , van der Heijden Marcel G. A.
Published: July 2015

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are promoted as biofertilizers for sustainable agriculture. So far, most researchers have investigated the effects of AMF on plant growth under highly controlled conditions with sterilized soil, soil substrates or soils with low available P or low inoculum potential. However, it is still poorly documented whether inoculated AMF can successfully establish in field soils with native AMF communities and enhance plant growth. We inoculated grassland microcosms planted with a grass–clover mixture (Lolium multiflorum and Trifolium pratense) with the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus Rhizoglomus irregulare. The microcosms were filled with eight different unsterilized field soils that varied greatly in soil type and chemical characteristics and indigenous AMF communities. We tested whether inoculation with AMF enhanced plant biomass and R. irregulare abundance using a species specific qPCR. Inoculation increased the abundance of R. irregulare in all soils, irrespective of soil P availability, the initial abundance of R. irregulare or the abundance of native AM fungal communities. AMF inoculation had no effect on the grass but significantly enhanced clover yield in five out of eight field soils. The results demonstrate that AMF inoculation can be successful, even when soil P availability is high and native AMF communities are abundant.
Allocation, stress tolerance and carbon transport in plants: how does phloem physiology affect plant ecology?
Authors: Savage Jessica A. , Clearwater Michael J. , Haines Dustin F. , Klein Tamir , Mencuccini Maurizio , Sevanto Sanna , Turgeon Robert , Zhang Cankui
Published: July 2015

Despite the crucial role of carbon transport in whole plant physiology and its impact on plant–environment interactions and ecosystem function, relatively little research has tried to examine how phloem physiology impacts plant ecology. In this review, we highlight several areas of active research where inquiry into phloem physiology has increased our understanding of whole plant function and ecological processes. We consider how xylem–phloem interactions impact plant drought tolerance and reproduction, how phloem transport influences carbon allocation in trees and carbon cycling in ecosystems and how phloem function mediates plant relations with insects, pests, microbes and symbiotes. We argue that in spite of challenges that exist in studying phloem physiology, it is critical that we consider the role of this dynamic vascular system when examining the relationship between plants and their biotic and abiotic environment.
The chloroplastic DEVH‐box RNA helicase INCREASED SIZE EXCLUSION LIMIT 2 involved in plasmodesmata regulation is required for group II intron splicing
Authors: Carlotto Nicolas , Wirth Sonia , Furman Nicolas , Ferreyra Solari Nazarena , Ariel Federico , Crespi Martin , Kobayashi Ken
Published: July 2015

INCREASED SIZE EXCLUSION LIMIT 2 (ISE2) encodes a putative DEVH‐box RNA helicase originally identified through a genetic screening for Arabidopsis mutants altered in plasmodesmata (PD) aperture. Depletion of ISE2 also affects chloroplasts activity, decreases accumulation of photosynthetic pigments and alters expression of photosynthetic genes. In this work, we show the chloroplast localization of ISE2 and decipher its role in plastidic RNA processing and, consequently, PD function. Group II intron‐containing RNAs from chloroplasts exhibit defective splicing in ise2 mutants and ISE2‐silenced plants, compromising plastid viability. Furthermore, RNA immunoprecipitation suggests that ISE2 binds in vivo to several splicing‐regulated RNAs. Finally, we show that the chloroplast clpr2 mutant (defective in a subunit of a plastidic Clp protease) also exhibits abnormal PD function during embryogenesis, supporting the idea that chloroplast RNA processing is required to regulate cell–cell communication in plants.
Culvert replacements: improvement of stream biotic integrity?
Authors: Ogren Stephanie A. , Huckins Casey J.
Published: July 2015

Roads and associated stream crossings can modify and degrade natural hydrology of a system and alter organism movement. Culvert replacement and stream crossing improvements are extremely common and often done with the intent to improve biotic integrity of a system. We evaluated 3 sites where poor road‐stream crossings were improved by replacing improper culverts with full‐span natural bottom structures. We used a before‐after‐control‐impact paired series (BACIPS) design to determine if there was evidence of associated improvement in biotic integrity of the stream communities. Biotic integrity indices developed for coldwater fish and macroinvertebrates in the Northern Lakes and Forests Ecoregion were used to estimate responses of the biotic communities adjacent to culvert replacements. With poor to fair fish and macroinvertebrate communities prior to culvert replacement, we predicted communities would show improvement into the good range of the indices. With 2–4 years of pre‐data and 3–5 years of postdata, we were not able to detect improvements in overall biotic integrity utilizing fish or macroinvertebrate index scores. Road crossing improvements may synergistically restore stream ecosystems, restore natural sediment dynamics, and improve passage; however, in these cases local biotic integrity scores were not significantly improved. Culvert replacements are often developed based on the potential, or the perception, that they will restore ecological integrity and biological communities or fisheries; however, as restoration practitioners, researchers, and managers, assessing these claims and learning from prior restoration attempts is necessary.
A Unified analysis of existentials and psych‐constructions in Korean as pseudo‐transitives
Authors: Kim Kyumin
Published: July 2015

This paper compares the transitivity of existential and psych‐constructions in Korean to canonical transitives and intransitives. It is shown that these constructions are neither transitives nor intransitives. This paper argues that they can be unified as pseudo‐transitives (i.e., somewhere between transitives and intransitives) and provides a structural analysis for pseudo‐transitives using Appl. Pseudo‐transitives provide support for the theory that transitivity is a continuum, and not categorical (Hopper & Thompson 1980).
The Perceived Value of Passive Animal Health Surveillance: The Case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Vietnam
Authors: Delabouglise A. , Antoine‐Moussiaux N. , Phan T. D. , Dao D. C. , Nguyen T. T. , Truong B. D. , Nguyen X. N. T. , Vu T. D. , Nguyen K. V. , Le H. T. , Salem G. , Peyre M.
Published: July 2015

Economic evaluations are critical for the assessment of the efficiency and sustainability of animal health surveillance systems and the improvement of their efficiency. Methods identifying and quantifying costs and benefits incurred by public and private actors of passive surveillance systems (i.e. actors of veterinary authorities and private actors who may report clinical signs) are needed. This study presents the evaluation of perceived costs and benefits of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) passive surveillance in Vietnam. Surveys based on participatory epidemiology methods were conducted in three provinces in Vietnam to collect data on costs and benefits resulting from the reporting of HPAI suspicions to veterinary authorities. A quantitative tool based on stated preference methods and participatory techniques was developed and applied to assess the non‐monetary costs and benefits. The study showed that poultry farmers are facing several options regarding the management of HPAI suspicions, besides reporting the following: treatment, sale or destruction of animals. The option of reporting was associated with uncertain outcome and transaction costs. Besides, actors anticipated the release of health information to cause a drop of markets prices. This cost was relevant at all levels, including farmers, veterinary authorities and private actors of the upstream sector (feed, chicks and medicine supply). One benefit associated with passive surveillance was the intervention of public services to clean farms and the environment to limit the disease spread. Private actors of the poultry sector valued information on HPAI suspicions (perceived as a non‐monetary benefit) which was mainly obtained from other private actors and media.
On Adhesive and Buckling Instabilities in the Mechanics of Carbon Nanotubes Bundles
Authors: Zhou Xuance , O’Reilly Oliver M.
Published: July 2015

Many recently synthesized materials feature aligned arrays or bundles of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) whose mechanical properties are partially determined by the van der Waals interactions between adjacent tubes. Of particular interest in this paper are instances where the resulting interaction between a pair of CNTs often produces a forklike structure. The mechanical properties of this structure are noticeably different from those for isolated individual CNTs. In particular, while one anticipates buckling phenomena in the forked structure, an adhesion instability may also be present. New criteria for buckling and adhesion instabilities in forklike structures are presented in this paper. The criteria are illuminated with a bifurcation analyses of the response of the forklike structure to applied compressive and shear loadings.
Barycentric Rational Interpolation Iteration Collocation Method for Solving Nonlinear Vibration Problems
Authors: Jiang Jian , Wang Zhao-Qing , Wang Jian-Hua , Tang Bing-Tao
Published: July 2015

In this article, a powerful computational methodology, named as barycentric rational interpolation iteration collocation method (BRICM), for obtaining the numerical solutions of nonlinear vibration problems is presented. The nonlinear vibration problems are governed by initial-value problems of nonlinear differential equations. Given an initial guess value of the unknown function, the nonlinear differential equations can be transformed into linear differential equations. By applying barycentric rational interpolation and differential matrix, the linearized differential equation is discretized into algebraic equations in the matrix form. The latest solution of nonlinear differential equation is obtained by solving the algebraic equations. The numerical solution of nonlinear vibration problem can be calculated by iteration method under given control precision. Then, the velocity and acceleration can be obtained by differential matrix of barycentric rational interpolation, and the period of nonlinear vibration is also computed by BRICM. Some examples of nonlinear vibration demonstrate the proposed methodological advantages of effectiveness, simple formulations, and high precision.
Microstructure Modeling and Ultrasonic Wave Propagation Simulation of A206–Al2O3 Metal Matrix Nanocomposites for Quality Inspection
Authors: Liu Yuhang , Wu Jianguo , Zhou Shiyu , Li Xiaochun
Published: July 2015

Ultrasonic testing is a promising alternative quality inspection technique to the expensive microscopic imaging to characterize metal matrix nanocomposites. However, due to the complexity of the wave–microstructure interaction, and the difficulty in fabricating nanocomposites of different microstructural features, it is very challenging to build reliable relationships between ultrasonic testing results and nanocomposites quality. In this research, we propose a microstructure modeling and wave propagation simulation method to simulate ultrasonic attenuation characteristic for A206–Al2O3 metal matrix nanocomposites (MMNCs). In particular, a modified Voronoi diagram is used to reproduce the microstructures and the numeric method elastodynamic finite integration technique (EFIT) is used to simulate the wave propagation through the generated microstructures. Linear mixed effects model (LME) is used to quantify the between-curve variation of ultrasonic attenuation from both experiment and simulation. Permutation test is employed to quantify the similarity of the quantified variation between experiment and simulation. This research supports the experimental results through the simulation approach and provides a better understanding of the relationship between attenuation curves and the microstructures.
Extending Replacement Intervals of Elastomeric Components by Evaluating Samples Removed From Service
Authors: Marchesi Jenifer T. , McBrine William J. , Roy Vincent
Published: July 2015

Elastomers play an essential role in pressure vessels as seals, hoses, gaskets, diaphragms, liners, and other critical components. Polymeric materials used for nonpressure applications such as electric power cable insulation have received more attention, with respect to the effects of aging and life management, than critical elastomeric pressure vessel components such as seals. Performance of these seals depends upon the effects of both time- and event-dependent aging. Understanding and addressing aging and degradation are fundamental to effective preventative maintenance and life cycle management programs. Proper management of elastomers is necessary for performance requirements and for cost containment. In one of the case studies presented, synthetic seals in engines were quite costly to change on the suggested OEM (original equipment manufacturer) maintenance schedule, where replacement intervals were based on assumed operating conditions applicable to other industries. When the actual service for these engines is as emergency diesel generators (EDGs, e.g., in nuclear power plants), the use is primarily in stand-by mode, and the usage is far different than that of the manufacturer's target application. In this investigation, the assessment of pressure seal performance was based on situation-specific operation and environmental parameters. This resulted in much longer replacement intervals. In another case study, alternate materials were identified that are expected to improve performance over the original material.
Novel Robotic Manipulator With Four Screws for Automated Storage and Retrieval System
Authors: Wang Dan , Zhang Wenzeng , Mo An , Shan Te , Sun Zhenguo , Chen Qiang
Published: July 2015

With a new perspective, this paper integrates the concept of automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS) in production and distribution with high-throughput screening (HTS) system and strikes out a new path in designing AS/RS in biological and medical laboratories. Robotic manipulators are used in AS/RSs to pick-and-place objects. Robot hands are proper to fulfill this function, whereas they are complex in mechanical control system. In this paper, a novel four-screw robotic (FSR) manipulator is presented. Kinematics and dynamics framework of the FSR manipulator is given.
A Novel Dynamic Model for Single Degree-of-Freedom Planar Mechanisms Based on Instant Centers
Authors: Di Gregorio Raffaele
Published: July 2015

Many even complex machines employ single degree-of-freedom (single-dof) planar mechanisms. The instantaneous kinematics of planar mechanisms can be fully understood by analyzing where the instant centers (ICs) of the relative motions among mechanism’s links are located. ICs' positions depend only on the mechanism configuration in single-dof planar mechanisms and a number of algorithms that compute their location have been proposed in the literature. Once ICs positions are known, they can be exploited, for instance, to determine the velocity coefficients (VCs) of the mechanism and the virtual work of the external forces applied to mechanism's links. Here, these and other ICs' properties are used to build a novel dynamic model and an algorithm that solves the dynamic problems of single-dof planar mechanisms. Then, the proposed model and algorithm are applied to a case study.
Design of Stabilizing Arm Mechanisms for Carrying and Positioning Loads
Authors: Ackerman Jeffrey , Seipel Justin
Published: July 2015

Stabilizing arm mechanisms are used to support and position a load with minimal force from the user. Further, stabilizing arm mechanisms enable operators to stabilize the motion of the load while walking or running over variable terrain. Although existing stabilizing arm mechanisms have reached fairly broad adoption over a range of applications, it remains unknown exactly how the spring properties and geometric parameters of the mechanism enable its overall performance. We developed a simplified model to analyze the vertical dynamics of stabilizing arms to determine how the spring properties and mechanism geometry affect the natural frequency of the load mass, the range of load masses that can be supported, and the equilibrium position of the load mass. We found that decreasing the unstretched spring free length is the most effective way to minimize the natural frequency; the spring lever arm can be used to adjust for a desired load mass range, and the linkage length can be used to adjust the range of motion of the stabilizing arm. The spring stiffness should be selected based on the other parameters. This work provides a systematic design study of how the parameters of a stabilizing arm mechanism affect its behavior and fundamental design principles that could be used to improve existing mechanisms, and enable the design of new mechanisms.
Quantification of Classical Gestalt Principles in Two-Dimensional Product Representations
Authors: Lugo José E. , Schmiedeler James P. , Batill Stephen M. , Carlson Laura
Published: July 2015

Gestalt principles have previously served as qualitative guidelines for good visual design in art, architecture, and product design. This paper introduces a formal method to quantify classical Gestalt principles (proximity, continuity, closure, symmetry, parallelism, and similarity) for two-dimensional product representations. With the approach, designers use their judgment to divide a 2D representation of a new concept or existing design into its key atomistic elements, identify the most appropriate Gestalt principles that apply to the grouping of those elements, and then can objectively quantify the design’s adherence to those principles using mathematical functions of the design parameters. This quantification provides a tool to augment a design team’s own subjective interpretations in evaluating and communicating a product’s visual appearance at any stage of or throughout the design process.
Hybrid Compliant Mechanism Design Using a Mixed Mesh of Flexure Hinge Elements and Beam Elements Through Topology Optimization
Authors: Cao Lin , Dolovich Allan T. , Zhang Wenjun (Chris)
Published: July 2015

This paper proposes a topology optimization framework to design compliant mechanisms with a mixed mesh of both beams and flexure hinges for the design domain. Further, a new type of finite element, i.e., super flexure hinge element, was developed to model flexure hinges. Then, an investigation into the effects of the location and size of a flexure hinge in a compliant lever explains why the point-flexure problem often occurs in the resulting design via topology optimization. Two design examples were presented to verify the proposed technique. The effects of link widths and hinge radii were also investigated. The results demonstrated that the proposed meshing scheme and topology optimization technique facilitate the rational decision on the locations and sizes of beams and flexure hinges in compliant mechanisms.
Quantum unidirectional rotation directly imaged with molecules
Authors: Mizuse Kenta , Kitano Kenta , Hasegawa Hirokazu , Ohshima Yasuhiro
Published: July 2015

High resolution imaging fully characterizes quantum-mechanical signatures of direction-controlled molecular rotational dynamics.
Structure of transcribed chromatin is a sensor of DNA damage
Authors: Pestov Nikolay A. , Gerasimova Nadezhda S. , Kulaeva Olga I. , Studitsky Vasily M.
Published: July 2015

Small DNA loops formed on transcribed nucleosomes trigger transcriptional arrest on damaged DNA and reveal hidden DNA breaks.
Rapid eye movement sleep promotes cortical plasticity in the developing brain
Authors: Dumoulin Bridi Michelle C. , Aton Sara J. , Seibt Julie , Renouard Leslie , Coleman Tammi , Frank Marcos G.
Published: July 2015

Rapid eye movement sleep plays a critical role in shaping developing circuits in the cerebral cortex.
Short stature and pubertal delay in Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Wood Claire L , Straub Volker , Guglieri Michela , Bushby Kate , Cheetham Tim
Published: July 2015

Children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) are shorter than their healthy peers. The introduction of corticosteroid (CS) has beneficial effects on muscle function but slows growth further and is associated with pubertal delay. In contrast to CS usage in most children and adolescents, weaning glucocorticoid is not a key objective of management in DMD. As the outlook for these young people improves, one of the main challenges is to reduce or offset the detrimental effects of CS on growth and development. This is a review of the aetiology and prevalence of short stature and delayed puberty in DMD, a summary of the treatments available and suggestions for areas of further research.
Efficacy and Safety of Pergoveris in Assisted Reproductive Technology—ESPART: rationale and design of a randomised controlled trial in poor ovarian responders undergoing IVF/ICSI treatment
Authors: Humaidan P , Schertz J , Fischer R
Published: July 2015

Introduction

The results of a recent meta-analysis showed that adding recombinant human luteinising hormone (r-hLH) to recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone (r-hFSH) for ovarian stimulation was beneficial in poor responders, resulting in a 30% relative increase in the clinical pregnancy rate compared with r-hFSH monotherapy. However, a limitation of the meta-analysis was that the included studies used heterogeneous definitions of poor ovarian response (POR). Furthermore, the use of r-hLH supplementation during ovarian stimulation is a topic of ongoing debate, and well-designed, adequately powered, multicentre, randomised controlled trials in this setting are warranted. Therefore, the objective of the ESPART trial is to explore the possible superiority of a fixed-dose combination of r-hFSH plus r-hLH over r-hFSH monotherapy in patients with POR, as per a definition aligned with the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) Bologna criteria.

Methods and analysis

Phase III, randomised, single-blind, parallel-group trial in women undergoingin vitrofertilisation and/or intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Approximately 946 women aged 18–<41 years from 18 countries will be randomised (1:1) to receive a fixed-dose combination of r-hFSH plus r-hLH in a 2:1 ratio (Pergoveris) or r-hFSH monotherapy (GONAL-f). The primary end point is the total number of retrieved oocytes per participant. Secondary end points include: ongoing pregnancy rate, live birth rate, implantation rate, biochemical pregnancy rate and clinical pregnancy rate. Safety end points include: incidence and severity of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, and of adverse events and serious adverse events.

Ethics and dissemination

The study will be performed in accordance with ethical principles that have their origin in the Declaration of Helsinki, with the International Conference on Harmonisation–Good Clinical Practice guidelines and all applicable regulatory requirements. All participants will provide written informed consent prior to entry. The results of this study will be publically disseminated.

Trial registration numbers

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier:NCT02047227; EudraCT Number: 2013-003817-16; Clinical Trial Protocol Number: EMR200061-005 V.3.0, 15 April 2014.