bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First Report of Lettuce mosaic virus Infecting Lactuca sativa in India
Authors: Sharma P. , Jain R. K. , Saha S. , Kalia P.
Published: January 2013

In January 2012, lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) plants (19 out of 38) of one of the accessions (EC687345, variety NVRS-10:001818) exhibiting mild mosaic and stunted growth symptoms were observed at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) experimental farm, New Delhi. Similar disease symptoms in lettuce plants in India were previously described (3) and the associated virus was characterized for host range, dilution end point, thermal inactivation point, and longevity in vitro. In this study, definitive molecular evidence is presented for the presence of Lettuce mosaic virus (LMV) infecting lettuce in India. Analysis of preparations from leaves of symptomatic samples with an electron microscope revealed flexuous virus particles measuring 750 × 13 nm, suggesting the association of a potyvirus (4). To identify the potyvirus infecting these lettuce plants, the 3′ terminal portion of the genome including the part of the nuclear inclusion b (NIb), complete coat protein (CP) region, and 3′ untranslated region (UTR) was amplified by RT-PCR, cloned, and sequenced. Total RNA was extracted from infected leaves using an RNeasy Plant Mini Kit (Qiagen, Valencia, CA) and subjected to RT-PCR using potyvirus specific forward (5′ ACCACAGGATCCGGBAAYAAYAGYGGDCARCC 3′) and reverse (5′ CACGGATCCCGGG(T17)V 3′) primers (2). PCR products (~1.8 kb) were cloned into pGEM-T Easy vector (Promega, Madison, WI) and sequenced (GenBank Accession No. JQ794776). Sequence comparisons revealed the CP of the virus infecting lettuce (834 bp) shared 96 to 100% nucleotide and deduced amino acid sequence identity with the corresponding regions of LMV isolates AJ306288 and AJ297630 from the United Kingdom, CAA46603 and NC003605 from the United States, AJ278854 and AJ278854 from Brazil, and AJ488153 from China, thus complying with the cut off range of 90 to 99% for identifying isolates/strains of the same virus (1). Similarly, 99 to 100% nucleotide sequence identity was observed with the corresponding region of the 3′UTR (245 bp) while 93 to 96% nucleotide identity of NIb region (654 bp) with LMV isolates. These results confirm that the virus infecting the symptomatic lettuce plants was an isolate of LMV. The amino acid sequences (DAG and WCIEN) conserved among majority of potyviruses were also present. Since the virus is aphid transmissible, its natural infection on other hosts and spread can't be ruled out.

References: (1) M. J. Adams et al. Arch Virol. 150:459, 2005. (2) A. Gibbs and A. Mackenzie. J. Virol. Methods 63:9, 1997. (3) T. K. Nariani and P. S. Pathanian. Indian Phytopathol. 13:172, 1960. (4) D. D. Shukla et al. The Potyviridae, page 338, 1994.
Detection and Quantification of Leveillula taurica Growth in Pepper Leaves
Authors: Zheng Zheng , Nonomura Teruo , Bóka Károly , Matsuda Yoshinori , Visser Richard G. F. , Toyoda Hideyoshi , Kiss Levente , Bai Yuling
Published: January 2013

Leveillula taurica is an obligate fungal pathogen that causes powdery mildew disease on a broad range of plants, including important crops such as pepper, tomato, eggplant, onion, cotton, and so on. The early stage of this disease is difficult to diagnose and the disease can easily spread unobserved; for example, in pepper and tomato production fields and greenhouses. The objective of this study was to develop a detection and quantification method of L. taurica biomass in pepper leaves with special regard to the early stages of infection. We monitored the development of the disease to time the infection process on the leaf surface as well as inside the pepper leaves. The initial and final steps of the infection taking place on the leaf surface were consecutively observed using a dissecting microscope and a scanning electron microscope. The development of the intercellular mycelium in the mesophyll was followed by light and transmission electron microscopy. A pair of L. taurica-specific primers was designed based on the internal transcribed spacer sequence of L. taurica and used in real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay to quantify the fungal DNA during infection. The specificity of this assay was confirmed by testing the primer pair with DNA from host plants and also from another powdery mildew species, Oidium neolycopersici, infecting tomato. A standard curve was obtained for absolute quantification of L. taurica biomass. In addition, we tested a relative quantification method by using a plant gene as reference and the obtained results were compared with the visual disease index scoring. The real-time PCR assay for L. taurica provides a valuable tool for detection and quantification of this pathogen in breeding activities as well in plant–microbe interaction studies.
Effect of Proton Pump Inhibitor on Esophageal Eosinophilia
Authors: Schroeder Shauna , Capocelli Kelley E. , Masterson Joanne C. , Harris Rachel , Protheroe Cheryl , Lee James J. , Furuta Glenn T.
Published: January 2013

Objective:

Differentiation between the common etiologies of dense esophageal eosinophilia such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and eosinophilic esophagitis can be difficult. We hypothesized that histologic features may provide diagnostic clues concerning the etiology of esophageal eosinophilia.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective chart review of 204 children with the diagnosis of esophagitis characterized by ≥15 eosinophils (eos) per high‐power field (HPF) in at least 1 biopsy. We then restricted our analysis to subjects who had received at least 8 weeks of only proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) followed by endoscopy and who had a clinicopathologic response to this treatment. Symptoms, endoscopic findings, and pathologic descriptions were reviewed and an eosinophil peroxidase (EPX) index was determined to assess for degranulation/eosinophil activation.

Results:

Of the 204 identified charts, 7 subjects identified met the inclusion criteria. Five of these 7 patients showed a clinicopathologic response to PPIs after their follow‐up endoscopy, (mean peak eosinophil count: 92 vs 5 eos/HPF, and EPX index: 39.2 vs 14.6, pre‐ and posttreatment, respectively). Two patients experienced initial resolution of symptoms and esophageal eosinophilia with PPI therapy; however, within 17–23 months they redeveloped symptoms and esophageal eosinophilia while receiving PPI therapy at the time of a third endoscopy (mean peak eosinophil count: 40 vs 11 vs 36 eos/HPF, and EPX index: 44 vs 21 vs 36.5, pre‐, post‐ and posttreatment, respectively). No clinicopathologic features or degranulation patterns differentiated subjects with GERD/PPI responsive esophageal eosinophilia from those who had transient response to PPI treatment.

Conclusions:

No clinicopathologic features differentiated subjects who responded to PPI treatment. PPI treatment can be helpful to exclude GERD and PPI responsive esophageal eosinophilia but long‐term follow‐up is critical in the management of esophagitis.
Perception of silent and motionless prey on vegetation by echolocation in the gleaning batMicronycteris microtis
Authors: Geipel Inga , Jung Kirsten , Kalko Elisabeth K. V.
Published: January 2013

Gleaning insectivorous bats that forage by using echolocation within dense forest vegetation face the sensorial challenge of acoustic masking effects. Active perception of silent and motionless prey in acoustically cluttered environments by echolocation alone has thus been regarded impossible. The gleaning insectivorous batMicronycteris microtishowever, forages in dense understory vegetation and preys on insects, including dragonflies, which rest silent and motionless on vegetation. From behavioural experiments, we show thatM. microtisuses echolocation as the sole sensorial modality for successful prey perception within a complex acoustic environment. All individuals performed a stereotypical three-dimensional hovering flight in front of prey items, while continuously emitting short, multi-harmonic, broadband echolocation calls. We observed a high precision in target localization which suggests thatM. microtisperceives a detailed acoustic image of the prey based on shape, surface structure and material. Our experiments provide, to our knowledge, the first evidence that a gleaning bat uses echolocation alone for successful detection, classification and precise localization of silent and motionless prey in acoustic clutter. Overall, we conclude that the three-dimensional hovering flight ofM. microtisin combination with a frequent emission of short, high-frequency echolocation calls is the key for active prey perception in acoustically highly cluttered environments.
Optimization of multiple turbine arrays in a channel with tidally reversing flow by numerical modelling with adaptive mesh
Authors: Divett T , Vennell R , Stevens C
Published: January 2013

At tidal energy sites, large arrays of hundreds of turbines will be required to generate economically significant amounts of energy. Owing to wake effects within the array, the placement of turbines within will be vital to capturing the maximum energy from the resource. This study presents preliminary results using Gerris, an adaptive mesh flow solver, to investigate the flow through four different arrays of 15 turbines each. The goal is to optimize the position of turbines within an array in an idealized channel. The turbines are represented as areas of increased bottom friction in an adaptive mesh model so that the flow and power capture in tidally reversing flow through large arrays can be studied. The effect of oscillating tides is studied, with interesting dynamics generated as the tidal current reverses direction, forcing turbulent flow through the array. The energy removed from the flow by each of the four arrays is compared over a tidal cycle. A staggered array is found to extract 54 per cent more energy than a non-staggered array. Furthermore, an array positioned to one side of the channel is found to remove a similar amount of energy compared with an array in the centre of the channel.
Integrated cistromic and expression analysis of amplified NKX2-1 in lung adenocarcinoma identifies LMO3 as a functional transcriptional target
Authors: Watanabe Hideo , Francis Joshua M. , Woo Michele S. , Etemad Banafsheh , Lin Wenchu , Fries Daniel F. , Peng Shouyong , Snyder Eric L. , Tata Purushothama Rao , Izzo Francesca , Schinzel Anna C. , Cho Jeonghee , Hammerman Peter S. , Verhaak Roel G. , Hahn William C. , Rajagopal Jayaraj , Jacks Tyler , Meyerson Matthew
Published: January 2013

The NKX2-1 transcription factor, a regulator of normal lung development, is the most significantly amplified gene in human lung adenocarcinoma. To study the transcriptional impact of NKX2-1 amplification, we generated an expression signature associated with NKX2-1 amplification in human lung adenocarcinoma and analyzed DNA-binding sites of NKX2-1 by genome-wide chromatin immunoprecipitation. Integration of these expression and cistromic analyses identified LMO3, itself encoding a transcription regulator, as a candidate direct transcriptional target of NKX2-1. Further cistromic and overexpression analyses indicated that NKX2-1 can cooperate with the forkhead box transcription factor FOXA1 to regulate LMO3 gene expression. RNAi analysis of NKX2-1-amplified cells compared with nonamplified cells demonstrated that LMO3 mediates cell survival downstream from NKX2-1. Our findings provide new insight into the transcriptional regulatory network of NKX2-1 and suggest that LMO3 is a transcriptional signal transducer in NKX2-1-amplified lung adenocarcinomas.
Structure-Guided Engineering of Plant Phytochrome B with Altered Photochemistry and Light Signaling
Authors: Zhang Junrui , Stankey Robert J. , Vierstra Richard D.
Published: January 2013

Phytochromes (phys) encompass a diverse collection of biliproteins that enable cellular light perception by photoconverting between a red-light-absorbing ground state (Pr) and a far-red light-absorbing active state (Pfr). Based on the central role of plant phys in controlling numerous agriculturally important processes, their rational redesign offers great promise toward accelerating crop improvement. Employing as templates the available three-dimensional models of the photosensory module within bacterial phys, we report here our initial attempt to apply structure-guided mutagenesis to phy engineering using Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) phyB, the dominant isoform in light-grown plants, as the example. A collection of phyB mutants was generated affecting the bilin-binding pocket that altered photochemistry, thermal stability, and/or nuclear localization patterns, some of which also impacted phenotypic outputs. Of particular interest are the Y361F substitution, which created Arabidopsis plants with greatly enhanced light sensitivity, mutants variably altered in Pfr-to-Pr thermal reversion and nuclear aggregation, and the D307A substitution, which failed to photoconvert from Pr to Pfr and display light-induced nuclear aggregation but retained some biological activity and accelerated turnover in red light. Taken together, this collection provides variants potentially useful to agriculture as well as new tools to better understand the molecular mechanisms underpinning phy signaling.
Arabidopsis TWISTED DWARF1 Functionally Interacts with Auxin Exporter ABCB1 on the Root Plasma Membrane
Authors: Wang Bangjun , Bailly Aurélien , Zwiewka Marta , Henrichs Sina , Azzarello Elisa , Mancuso Stefano , Maeshima Masayoshi , Friml Jiří , Schulz Alexander , Geisler Markus
Published: January 2013

Plant architecture is influenced by the polar, cell-to-cell transport of auxin that is primarily provided and regulated by plasma membrane efflux catalysts of the PIN-FORMED and B family of ABC transporter (ABCB) classes. The latter were shown to require the functionality of the FK506 binding protein42 TWISTED DWARF1 (TWD1), although underlying mechanisms are unclear. By genetic manipulation of TWD1 expression, we show here that TWD1 affects shootward root auxin reflux and, thus, downstream developmental traits, such as epidermal twisting and gravitropism of the root. Using immunological assays, we demonstrate a predominant lateral, mainly outward-facing, plasma membrane location for TWD1 in the root epidermis characterized by the lateral marker ABC transporter G36/PLEIOTROPIC DRUG-RESISTANCE8/PENETRATION3. At these epidermal plasma membrane domains, TWD1 colocalizes with nonpolar ABCB1. In planta bioluminescence resonance energy transfer analysis was used to verify specific ABC transporter B1 (ABCB1)–TWD1 interaction. Our data support a model in which TWD1 promotes lateral ABCB-mediated auxin efflux via protein–protein interaction at the plasma membrane, minimizing reflux from the root apoplast into the cytoplasm.
Dislocation densities and prevailing slip-system types determined by X-ray line profile analysis in a textured AZ31 magnesium alloy deformed at different temperatures
Authors: Jóni Bertalan , Al-Samman Talal , Chowdhury Sandip Ghosh , Csiszár Gábor , Ungár Tamás
Published: January 2013

Tension experiments were carried out at room temperature, 473 K and 673 K on AZ31-type extruded magnesium alloy samples. The tensile deformation has almost no effect on the typical extrusion texture at any of the investigated temperatures. X-ray diffraction patterns provided by a high-angular-resolution diffractometer were analyzed for the dislocation density and slip activity after deformation to fracture. The diffraction peaks were sorted into two groups corresponding either to the major or to the random texture components in the specimen. The two groups of reflections were evaluated simultaneously as if the two texture components were two different phases. The dislocation densities in the major texture components are found to be always larger than those in the randomly oriented grain populations. The overwhelming fraction of dislocations prevailing in the samples is found to be of 〈a〉 type, with a smaller fraction of 〈c + a〉-type dislocations. The fraction of 〈c〉-type dislocations is always obtained to be zero within experimental error.
Understanding cement hydration at the microscale: new opportunities from `pencil-beam' synchrotron X-ray diffraction tomography
Authors: Voltolini Marco , Dalconi Maria Chiara , Artioli Gilberto , Parisatto Matteo , Valentini Luca , Russo Vincenzo , Bonnin Anne , Tucoulou Remi
Published: January 2013

The present work describes some new improvements concerning the analysis of cement hydration processes using `pencil-beam' synchrotron X-ray diffraction tomography. (i) A new filtering procedure, applied to the diffraction images, has been developed to separate the powder-like contribution from that of the grains in the diffraction images. (ii) In addition to improving the quality of the diffraction images for the subsequent analysis and tomographic reconstruction, the filtering procedure can also be used to perform a qualitative analysis of the crystallite size distribution, whenever the more standard approaches cannot be applied. (iii) Given the importance of the calcium silicate hydrate phase (C–S–H) in cements, a procedure to obtain its spatial distribution using the diffraction signal has been successfully applied, even though C–S–H is a highly disordered phase, almost amorphous to X-ray diffraction. (iv) The main result of this study has been to show that, in spite of the long measurement times required, it is possible to usein situexperiments at different aging times of cement pastes to monitor the cement evolution. This allowed the evolution of the microstructure during the acceleration and deceleration periods of the hydration process to be checked with unprecedented detail, since the quantitative spatial distribution of each phase (including C–S–H) dissolved or precipitated in the sample has been obtained. The reported approach opens up a range of opportunities for the investigation of complex multiphase systems and processes, including hydration and microstructural development in cements.
Implementation and performance of SIBYLS: a dual endstation small-angle X-ray scattering and macromolecular crystallography beamline at the Advanced Light Source
Authors: Classen Scott , Hura Greg L. , Holton James M. , Rambo Robert P. , Rodic Ivan , McGuire Patrick J. , Dyer Kevin , Hammel Michal , Meigs George , Frankel Kenneth A. , Tainer John A.
Published: January 2013

The SIBYLS beamline (12.3.1) of the Advanced Light Source at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, supported by the US Department of Energy and the National Institutes of Health, is optimized for both small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and macromolecular crystallography (MX), making it unique among the world's mostly SAXS or MX dedicated beamlines. Since SIBYLS was commissioned, assessments of the limitations and advantages of a combined SAXS and MX beamline have suggested new strategies for integration and optimal data collection methods and have led to additional hardware and software enhancements. Features described include a dual mode monochromator [containing both Si(111) crystals and Mo/B4C multilayer elements], rapid beamline optics conversion between SAXS and MX modes, active beam stabilization, sample-loading robotics, and mail-in and remote data collection. These features allow users to gain valuable insights from both dynamic solution scattering and high-resolution atomic diffraction experiments performed at a single synchrotron beamline. Key practical issues considered for data collection and analysis include radiation damage, structural ensembles, alternative conformers and flexibility. SIBYLS develops and applies efficient combined MX and SAXS methods that deliver high-impact results by providing robust cost-effective routes to connect structures to biology and by performing experiments that aid beamline designs for next generation light sources.
Normalized structure factor analysis with theCentroMKprogram
Authors: Kowiel Marcin
Published: January 2013

Statistical analysis of the normalized structure factorEis important during space-group determination. Several approaches to solve this problem have been described in the literature. In this paper, the most popular approach, the ideal asymptotic probability density function developed by Wilson, is compared with the more accurate exact probability density functions described by Shmueli and co-workers. Furthermore, a new computer program,CentroMK, for normalized structure factor analysis, is presented. The program is capable of plotting histograms of the normalized structure factors and exact probability density functions. Moreover, the program calculates five estimators helpful during the space-group determination: 〈|E|〉, 〈|E2 − 1|〉, %E> 2, %E< 0.25 and the discrepancyRfunction. The two approaches and the error rates of the five listed estimators are compared for nearly 30 600 crystal structures obtained fromActa Crystallographica Section E.It is shown that within a space group the means 〈|E|〉 and 〈|E2 − 1|〉 of real crystal structures show high variability. The comparison shows that decisions based on the exact probability density function are more accurate, the computing time is reasonable, and estimators 〈|E|〉, %E< 0.25 andRare the most accurate and should be preferred during space-group determination.
Research note: Seismic attenuation due to wave‐induced fluid flow at microscopic and mesoscopic scales
Authors: Rubino J. Germán , Holliger Klaus
Published: January 2013

Wave‐induced fluid flow at microscopic and mesoscopic scales arguably constitutes the major cause of intrinsic seismic attenuation throughout the exploration seismic and sonic frequency ranges. The quantitative analysis of these phenomena is, however, complicated by the fact that the governing physical processes may be dependent. The reason for this is that the presence of microscopic heterogeneities, such as micro‐cracks or broken grain contacts, causes the stiffness of the so‐called modified dry frame to be complex‐valued and frequency‐dependent, which in turn may affect the viscoelastic behaviour in response to fluid flow at mesoscopic scales. In this work, we propose a simple but effective procedure to estimate the seismic attenuation and velocity dispersion behaviour associated with wave‐induced fluid flow due to both microscopic and mesoscopic heterogeneities and discuss the results obtained for a range of pertinent scenarios.
Maternal and infant outcome after caesarean section without recorded medical indication: findings from a Swedish case–control study
Authors: Karlström A , Lindgren H , Hildingsson I
Published: January 2013

Objective

To compare maternal complications and infant outcomes for women undergoing elective caesarean sections based on a maternal request and without recorded medical indication with those of women who underwent spontaneous onset of labour with the intention to have a vaginal birth.

Design

Retrospective register study.

Setting

Sweden; Medical Birth Register used for data collection.

Methods

A case–control study of 5877 birth records of women undergoing caesarean sections without medical indication and a control group of 13 774 women undergoing births through spontaneous onset of labour. The control group was further divided into women who actually had a vaginal birth and women who ended up with an emergency caesarean section.

Results

Maternal complications occurred more frequently among women undergoing caesarean section with odds ratios (OR) for bleeding complications of 2.5 (95% CI 2.1–3.0) in the elective caesarean group and 2.0 (95% CI 1.5–2.6) in the emergency caesarean group. The OR for infections was 2.6 in both groups. Breastfeeding complications were most common in women having an elective caesarean section: 6.8 (95% CI 3.2–14.5). Infant outcomes showed a higher incidence of respiratory distress with an OR of 2.7 (95% CI 1.8–3.9) in the elective caesarean section group compared with infants born by emergency caesarean section. The risk of hypoglycaemia was at least twice as high for infants in the caesarean group.

Conclusions

Caesarean sections without medical indication as well as emergency caesarean sections were associated with higher risks for maternal and infant morbidity.
Taking the Bitter with the Sweet: Relationship of Supertasting and Sweet Preference with Metabolic Syndrome and Dietary Intake
Authors: Turner‐McGrievy Gabrielle , Tate Deborah F. , Moore Dominic , Popkin Barry
Published: January 2013

Results examining the effects of tasting profile on dietary intake and health outcomes have varied. This study examined the interaction of sweet liker (SL) and supertaster (ST) (bitter taste test through phenylthiocarbamide [PTC]) status with incidence of metabolic syndrome. Participants (n = 196) as part of baseline testing in a behavioral weight loss study completed measures assessing SL and ST status, metabolic syndrome, and dietary intake. SLs were more likely to be African American. More women than men were STs. There was a significant interaction between ST and SL status as associated with metabolic syndrome, after adjustment for demographic characteristics. This interaction was also significantly associated with fiber and caloric beverage intake. Post hoc analyses showed that participants who were only an ST or SL appeared to have a decreased risk of having metabolic syndrome compared with those who have a combination or are neither taster groups (P = 0.047) and that SL + ST consumed less fiber than SL + non‐ST (P = 0.04). Assessing genetic differences in taster preferences may be a useful strategy in the development of more tailored approaches to dietary interventions to prevent and treat metabolic syndrome.

Practical Application: Tasting profile, such as sweet liking (SL) or supertaster (ST), may be influenced by genetics, and therefore in turn, may influence dietary intake. The present study found an interaction between ST and SL status with incidence of metabolic syndrome and fiber and caloric beverage intake. Testing people for these tasting profiles may assist with tailoring dietary recommendations, particularly around fiber and caloric beverage intake, and provide a way to modify metabolic syndrome risk.
Tunable reporter signal production in feedback‐uncoupled arsenic bioreporters
Authors: Merulla Davide , Hatzimanikatis Vassily , van der Meer Jan Roelof
Published: January 2013

Escherichia coli‐based bioreporters for arsenic detection are typically based on the natural feedback loop that controls ars operon transcription. Feedback loops are known to show a wide range linear response to the detriment of the overall amplification of the incoming signal. While being a favourable feature in controlling arsenic detoxification for the cell, a feedback loop is not necessarily the most optimal for obtaining highest sensitivity and response in a designed cellular reporter for arsenic detection. Here we systematically explore the effects of uncoupling the topology of arsenic sensing circuitry on the developed reporter signal as a function of arsenite concentration input. A model was developed to describe relative ArsR and GFP levels in feedback and uncoupled circuitry, which was used to explore new ArsR‐based synthetic circuits. The expression of arsR was then placed under the control of a series of constitutive promoters, which differed in promoter strength, and which could be further modulated by TetR repression. Expression of the reporter gene was maintained under the ArsR‐controlled Pars promoter. ArsR expression in the systems was measured by using ArsR–mCherry fusion proteins. We find that stronger constitutive ArsR production decreases arsenite‐dependent EGFP output from Pars and vice versa. This leads to a tunable series of arsenite‐dependent EGFP outputs in a variety of systematically characterized circuitries. The higher expression levels and sensitivities of the response curves in the uncoupled circuits may be useful for improving field‐test assays using arsenic bioreporters.
Pterosaur Research: Recent Advances and a Future Revolution
Authors: HONE David W. E.
Published: January 2013

In the years since the first description of a pterosaur specimen in 1784, pterosaur research has inevitably advanced considerably. However the last decade has arguably seen a much greater increase in our knowledge than the preceding two centuries. Since the turn of the new millennium, more than 40 new pterosaur genera and species have been described and whole new clades have been discovered, in addition to much new data being developed on pterosaur anatomy, functional morphology, palaeobiology, systematics, ecology and more. We are perhaps at the start of a golden age of pterosaur research and much as the dinosaurs underwent a revolution in the 1970s through to the early 1990s, now the Pterosauria are taking their turn. There is also a new and wider interest in pterosaur work as it attracts both more researchers and greater public interest. Pterosaurs appear to be an increasingly popular aspect of paleontology in popular culture and of interest to the media, both mainstream and digital.
S and Pb Isotopic Constraints on the Relationship between the Linong Granodiorite and the Yangla Copper Deposit, Yunnan, China
Authors: Xi'an YANG , Jiajun LIU , Siyu HAN , Huan WANG , Siyao CHEN
Published: January 2013

The Yangla copper deposit, located in western Yunnan Province, China, is a typical giant, newly started mining copper deposit with an estimated Cu reserves of about 1,200,000 tons. The deposit is spatially and temporally associated with the Linong granodiorite, which is rich in SiO2 (SiO2=58.25 wt%–69.84 wt%) and alkalis (Na2O+K2O=5.98 wt%–8.34 wt%), indicating an association with shoshonitic series to high‐K calc‐alkaline series granites, and shows low contents of TiO2 (0.35 wt%–0.48 wt%), MgO (1.51 wt%–1.72 wt%), and Al2O3 (13.38 wt%–19.75 wt%). The δ34S values of sulfides of the main ore stage from copper ores vary range from −4.2‰ to −0.9‰, indicating a much greater contribution from the mantle to the ore‐forming fluids. The δ34S values of the late ore stage is −9.8‰, indicating enrichment of biogenic sulfur which may derive from the crustal hydrothermal fluid. The 208pb/204pbj 207pb/204pb and 206pb/204pb of sulfides of the main ore stage from copper ores range within 38.66–38.73, 15.71–15.74 and 18.35–19.04, respectively, implying that the Pb was derived from the mantle, with the crustal component, probably representing mixtures of mantle lead and crustal lead. Sulfide of the late ore stage in their Pb isotopic composition, 208Pb/204Pb= 38.69, 207Pb/204Pb=15.70, 206Pb/204Pb=18.35, implying that the Pb was derived from the crust. The Linong granodiorite is syncollisional, produced by partial melting of thickened lower crust, which was triggered by the westward subduction of the Jinshajiang Oceanic plate. During a transition in geodynamic setting from collision‐related compression to extension, gently dipping ductile shear zones (related to subduction) were transformed to brittle shear zones, consisting of a series of thrust faults in the Jinshajiang tectonic belt. The tensional thrust faults would have been a favorable environment for ore‐forming fluids. The ascending magma provided a channel for the ore‐forming fluid from the mantle wedge. After the magma arrived at the base of the early‐stage Linong granodiorite, the platy granodiorite at the base of the body would have shielded the late‐stage magma from the fluid. The magma would have cooled slowly, and some of the ore‐forming fluid in the magma would have entered the gently dipping thrust faults near the Linong granodiorite, resulting in mineralization.
Geochronology, Geochemistry and Petrogenesis of Diabase Dyke Swarms in East Tianshan, Xinjiang, NW China
Authors: Zuoheng ZHANG , Fengmei CHAI , Tuanhua WANG , Yanbo CHENG , Lingang XU , Shunda YUAN
Published: January 2013

Diabase dyke swarms are widespread in the East Tianshan and Beishan regions. LA‐ICP‐MS zircon U‐Pb ages of these diabase vary from 305 Ma to 278 Ma, showing that these dykes were formed during Late Carboniferous‐Early Permian magmatism. All diabase samples are subalkali calc‐alkali, characterized by slight LREE and LILEs enrichment, and weak negative Ti, Nb and Ta anomalies. The diabase samples have positive εNd(t) values (>+3), high Sr isotopic compositions (initial 87Sr/86Sr values=0.7030–0.7097), and large variation of Pb isotopic compositions, indicating they were derived from a deplete mantle source. Regional geology and geochemistry evidences indicate that these diabase dyke swarms were generated in a lithosphere extensional setting and had the same magma sources. Initial magmas may be a mixture of depleted asthenosphere mantle and enriched lithospheric mantle during rapid magma ascending.
Clinical model to estimate the pretest probability of malignancy in patients with pulmonary focal Ground‐glass Opacity
Authors: Jiang Long , Situ Dongrong , Lin Yongbin , Su Xiaodong , Zheng Yan , Zhang Yigong , Long Hao
Published: January 2013

Background

Effective strategies for managing patients with pulmonary focal Ground‐glass Opacity (fGGO) depend on the pretest probability of malignancy. Estimating a clinical probability of malignancy in patients with fGGOs can facilitate the selection and interpretation of subsequent diagnostic tests.

Methods 

Data from patients with pulmonary fGGO lesions, who were diagnosed at Sun Yat‐sen University Cancer Center, was retrospectively collected. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent clinical predictors for malignancy and to develop a clinical predictive model to estimate the pretest probability of malignancy in patients with fGGOs.

Results

 One hundred and sixty‐five pulmonary fGGO nodules were detected in 128 patients. Independent predictors for malignant fGGOs included a history of other cancers (odds ratio [OR], 0.264; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.072 to 0.970), pleural indentation (OR, 8.766; 95% CI, 3.033‐25.390), vessel‐convergence sign (OR, 23.626; 95% CI, 6.200 to 90.027) and air bronchogram (OR, 7.41; 95% CI, 2.037 to 26.961). Model accuracy was satisfactory (area under the curve of the receiver operating characteristic, 0.934; 95% CI, 0.894 to 0.975), and there was excellent agreement between the predicted probability and the observed frequency of malignant fGGOs.

Conclusions

We have developed a predictive model, which could be used to generate pretest probabilities of malignant fGGOs, and the equation could be incorporated into a formal decision analysis.
The role of lipid‐related genes, aging‐related processes, and environment in healthspan
Authors: Kulminski Alexander M. , Culminskaya Irina , Arbeev Konstantin G. , Ukraintseva Svetlana V. , Stallard Eric , Arbeeva Liubov , Yashin Anatoli I.
Published: January 2013

The inherent complexity of aging‐related traits can temper progress in unraveling the genetic origins of healthspan. We focus on two generations in the Framingham Heart Study, the original (FHS) and offspring (FHSO) cohorts, to determine whether aging‐related processes in changing environments can substantially impact the role of lipid‐related genes discovered in candidate gene (the apolipoprotein E (APOE) e2/3/4 polymorphism) and genome‐wide (the APOB rs1042034 (C/T)) studies, in regulation of total cholesterol (TC) and onset of cardiovascular disease (CVD). We demonstrate that the APOE e4 allele and APOB CC genotype can play detrimental, neutral, and protective sex‐specific roles in the etiology of CVD at different ages and in different environments. We document antagonistic roles for the e4 allele in the onset of CVD characterized by detrimental effects at younger ages (RR≤ 75 years = 1.49, P = 7.5 × 10−4) and protective effects at older ages (RR76+years = 0.77, P = 0.044) for FHS participants. We found that disregarding the role of aging erroneously nullifies the significant effects of the e4 allele in this sample (RR = 0.92, P = 0.387). The leading biogenetic pathways mediating genetic effects on CVD may be more relevant to lipid metabolism for APOB than APOE. Aging‐related processes can modulate the strength of genetic associations with TC in the same individuals at different chronological ages. We found substantial differences in the effects of the same APOE and APOB alleles on CVD and TC across generations. The results suggest that aging‐related processes in changing environments may play key roles in the genetics of healthspan. Detailed systemic integrative analyses may substantially advance the progress.
Spatial and temporal drivers of small mammal distributions in a semi‐arid environment: The role of rainfall, vegetation and life‐history
Authors: Kelly Luke T. , Dayman Ray , Nimmo Dale G. , Clarke Michael F. , Bennett Andrew F.
Published: January 2013

A key task in ecology is to understand the drivers of animal distributions. In arid and semi‐arid environments, this is challenging because animal populations show considerable spatial and temporal variation. An effective approach in such systems is to examine both broad‐scale and long‐term data. We used this approach to investigate the distribution of small mammal species in semi‐arid ‘mallee’ vegetation in south‐eastern Australia. First, we examined broad‐scale data collected at 280 sites across the Murray Mallee region. We used generalized additive mixed models (GAMMs) to examine four hypotheses concerning factors that influence the distribution of individual mammal species at this scale: vegetation structure, floristic diversity, topography and recent rainfall. Second, we used long‐term data from a single conservation reserve (surveyed from 1997 to 2012) to examine small mammal responses to rainfall over a period spanning a broad range of climatic conditions, including record high rainfall in 2011. Small mammal distributions were strongly associated with vegetation structure and rainfall patterns, but the relative importance of these drivers was species‐specific. The distribution of the mallee ningaui Ningaui yvonneae, for example, was largely determined by the cover of hummock grass; whereas the occurrence of the western pygmy possum Cercartetus concinnus was most strongly associated with above‐average rainfall. Further, the combination of both broad‐scale and long‐term data provided valuable insights. Bolam's mouse Pseudomys bolami was uncommon during the broad‐scale survey, but long‐term surveys showed that it responds positively to above‐average rainfall. Conceptual models developed for small mammals in temperate and central arid Australia, respectively, were not, on their own, adequate to account for the distributional patterns of species in this semi‐arid ecosystem. Species‐specific variation in the relative importance of different drivers was more effectively explained by qualitative differences in life‐history attributes among species.
Aged care system workforce: Training quality in NSW
Authors: Smith Sharlene , Stevens Stella Christiana
Published: January 2013

Aim

This study examines the consistency and acceptability by employers of the Certificate III in Aged Care as a qualification for unregistered care workers in metropolitan NSW.

Method

An expert committee developed consistency measures and surveyed 10 registered training organisations providing courses leading to this qualification to establish course consistency. Ten employers of graduates from these organisations were surveyed to examine the courses' acceptability as preparation for care workers.

Results

Training organisations provided widely different content, clinical experience and levels of supervision for students at varying rates of cost and duration. Facilities were not satisfied by levels of skills and knowledge of graduates and did not employ those from 20% of the sample surveyed.

Conclusion

Care workers' qualifications should be regulated by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency and the title and roles of these workers become more defined and clarified as a result.
Evolving a common surgical curriculum for ASEAN nations with a public health approach
Authors: Lum Siew Kheong
Published: January 2013

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) on medical practitioners' agreement will become a reality in the year 2015. Doctors registered in one ASEAN country will be given reciprocal recognition in another country under this agreement. Rapid and excessive movement of human resources between countries in a short span of time is undesirable and can be destabilizing. The surgical fraternity in the ASEAN countries should plan for a common surgical curriculum, a common examination and an ASEAN Board of Surgery so that standards of future trainees in different countries are comparable. The curriculum should take into consideration the diversity of the countries in socio‐economic development. Ideally, it should be based on a public health approach to bring affordable quality surgical care to the masses in an efficient and effective manner.
The Age Structure of Contemporary Homelessness: Evidence and Implications For Public Policy
Authors: Culhane Dennis P. , Metraux Stephen , Byrne Thomas , Stino Magdi , Bainbridge Jay
Published: January 2013

Amidst concern about the implications of an aging U.S. population, recent evidence suggests that there is a unique aging trend among the homeless population. Building on this, we use data from New York City and from the last three decennial Census enumerations to assess how the age composition of the homeless population—both single adults and adults in families—has changed over time. Findings show diverging trends in aging patterns for single adults and adults in families over the past 20 years. Among single adults, the bulk of the sheltered population is comprised of persons born during the latter part of the baby boom era whose high risk for homelessness has continued as they have aged. Specifically, the age group in this population facing the highest risk for homelessness was 34–36 (born 1954–1956) in 1990; 37–42 (born 1958–1963) in 2000; and 49–51 (born 1959–1961) in 2010. In contrast, among adults in sheltered families, there is no indication of any progressive aging of the family household heads. The modal age across the study period remains at 21–23 years of age. We consider implications for the health care and social welfare systems, and policy responses to homelessness.
Fragile X syndrome: clinical, cytogenetic and molecular screening among autism spectrum disorder children in Indonesia
Authors: Winarni TI , Utari A , Mundhofir FEP , Hagerman RJ , Faradz SMH
Published: January 2013

Fragile X testing is a priority in the evaluation of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) cases because identification of the FMR1 mutation leads to new treatment options. This study is focused on determining the prevalence of the FMR1 gene mutation among ASD cases in Indonesia. DSM‐IV‐TR criteria were administered to diagnose ASD; symptom severity was classified using the Childhood Autism Rating Scale. Cytogenetic analysis, polymerase chain reaction, and Southern blot for FMR1 gene analysis were carried out to confirm the diagnosis of fragile X syndrome. The fragile X site and FMR1 full mutation allele were identified in 3 out of 65 (4.6%) and 4 out of 65 (6.15%) children aged 3–17 years (57 boys and 8 girls), respectively. The Fragile X laboratory workup is essential in the evaluation of patients with ASD. Molecular analysis is most accurate, while cytogenetic documentation of the fragile X site can also be useful if molecular testing is not available.
Early recognition of pelvic floor dyssynergia and colorectal assessment in Parkinson's disease associated with bowel dysfunction
Authors: Wang C.‐P. , Sung W.‐H. , Wang C.‐C. , Tsai P.‐Y.
Published: January 2013

Aim

Slow colonic transit time (CTT) and pelvic floor dyssynergia (PFD) are major contributors to constipation in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). However, no symptom survey yet exists that effectively differentiates the contributing aetiologies. The significance of individual pelvic floor musculature behaviours and their relationship with colorectal dysmotility in constipated patients with PD are still controversial and need further clarification. We aimed to investigate how differentiated constipation‐related symptoms of PD patients with constipation may identify constipation groupings and to register the pathophysiological features of the pelvic musculature.

Method

Our subjects undertook CTT, defaecography and the Knowles–Eccersley–Scott Symptom questionnaire. The pathological aetiologies were categorized as group 1 (slow CTT) and/or group 2 (puborectalis syndrome) and/or group 3 (pubococcygeus syndrome), in accordance with the CTT and defaecography results.

Results

Constipation‐related symptoms such as incomplete evacuation and defaecation difficulty yielded high post‐test probabilities (81% and 88%, respectively) in groups 3 and 2, but a low post‐test probability in group 1 (58%). Changes in the anorectal angle and perineum descent during straining were significantly correlated with CTT (r = 0.57 and r = 0.61, respectively) and with each other (r = 0.82).

Conclusion

Our findings that neural control of the puborectalis and pubococcygeus, along with colorectal peristalsis, were in a similar state of degeneration is key information that should assist physicians to instigate more effective management for colonic dysmotility or PFD.
Trans‐anal rectoscopic ball diathermy (TARD) for radiotherapy‐induced haemorrhagic telangiectasia: a safe and effective treatment
Authors: Hopkins J. C. , Wood J. J. , Gilbert H. , Wheeler J. M. D. , Borley N.
Published: January 2013

Aim

Rectal bleeding may occur late after radiotherapy for prostate or bladder cancer, particularly when given by external beam, due to radiotherapy‐induced haemorrhagic telangiectasia (RIHT). We present the results of trans‐anal rectoscopic ball diathermy (TARD) for RIHT.

Method

Data were collected from patients who received TARD for RIHT. The diagnosis was made during endoscopic examination. Treatment involved discretely spaced spot monopolar diathermy coagulation of the rectal mucosa to the affected areas.

Results

Thirteen patients [median age 76 (69–80) years] underwent TARD for RIHT between 2005 and 2008. All presented late with rectal bleeding following radiotherapy for prostate or bladder cancer. Eight were treated as a day case, four remained in hospital for one night and one was hospitalized for 2 days. There was no mortality. Eleven patients achieved excellent symptomatic control requiring no further treatment at a median follow‐up of 20 (3–36) months. One patient underwent further TARD for recurrence. One patient complained of severe anorectal pain of no obvious cause and one developed constipation.

Conclusion

Trans‐anal rectoscopic ball diathermy (TARD) is a safe and effective treatment for patients with rectal bleeding due to RIHT.
The utility of conditioning sequences in barostat protocols for the measurement of rectal compliance
Authors: Bajwa A. , Thiruppathy K. , Emmanuel A.
Published: January 2013

Aim

A barostat can be used to measure rectal sensitivity, compliance and elastance all of which are potentially important physiological parameters in the pathophysiology of faecal incontinence. Current practice recommends a conditioning distension sequence be performed prior to index distensions. We questioned the validity of this by comparing values for rectal compliance during sequential conditioning (CD) and index (ID) distensions in physiologically normal subjects.

Method

Ten subjects (five men, mean age 55.2 years) with normal anal canal manometry, anorectal sensitivity and balloon distension thresholds were studied. After determining the minimum distension pressure, subjects underwent sequential isobaric distensions: CD 4 mmHg distensions every 45 s and ID 4 mmHg every 2 min, both to a maximum of 24 mmHg or patient tolerance. Compliance values from both sequences were calculated by measuring the maximum slope of pressure–volume curves. A paired t‐test was performed to compare any differences between sequences.

Results

Mean rectal compliance were 11.4 ml/mmHg (SD 5.8 ml/mmHg) and 10.9 ml/mmHg (SD 5.7 ml/mmHg) in the CD and ID, respectively, with no statistical difference noted between distensions (P = 0.78).

Conclusion

Rectal compliance can be measured with a single distension protocol without the need for an initial conditioning distension. Conditioning the rectum adds additional complexity to barostat protocols and is not necessary.