bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The potential of positron emission tomography for intratreatment dynamic lung tumor tracking: A phantom study
Authors: Yang Jaewon , Yamamoto Tokihiro , Mazin Samuel R. , Graves Edward E. , Keall Paul J.
Published: January 2014

Purpose:

This study aims to evaluate the potential and feasibility of positron emission tomography for dynamic lung tumor tracking during radiation treatment. The authors propose a center of mass (CoM) tumor tracking algorithm using gated‐PET images combined with a respiratory monitor and investigate the geometric accuracy of the proposed algorithm.

Methods:

The proposed PET dynamic lung tumor tracking algorithm estimated the target position information through the CoM of the segmented target volume on gated PET images reconstructed from accumulated coincidence events. The information was continuously updated throughout a scan based on the assumption that real‐time processing was supported (actual processing time at each frame ≈10 s). External respiratory motion and list‐mode PET data were acquired from a phantom programmed to move with measured respiratory traces (external respiratory motion and internal target motion) from human subjects, for which the ground truth target position was known as a function of time. The phantom was cylindrical with six hollow sphere targets (10, 13, 17, 22, 28, and 37 mm in diameter). The measured respiratory traces consisted of two sets: (1) 1D‐measured motion from ten healthy volunteers and (2) 3D‐measured motion from four lung cancer patients. The authors evaluated the geometric accuracy of the proposed algorithm by quantifying estimation errors (Euclidean distance) between the actual motion of targets (1D‐motion and 3D‐motion traces) and CoM trajectories estimated by the proposed algorithm as a function of time.

Results:

The time‐averaged error of 1D‐motion traces over all trajectories of all targets was 1.6 mm. The error trajectories decreased with time as coincidence events were accumulated. The overall error trajectory of 1D‐motion traces converged to within 2 mm in approximately 90 s. As expected, more accurate results were obtained for larger targets. For example, for the 37 mm target, the average error over all 1D‐motion traces was 1.1 mm; and for the 10 mm target, the average error over all 1D‐motion traces was 2.8 mm. The overall time‐averaged error of 3D‐motion traces was 1.6 mm, which was comparable to that of the 1D‐motion traces. There were small variations in the errors between the 3D‐motion traces, although the motion trajectories were very different. The accuracy of the estimates was consistent for all targets except for the smallest.

Conclusions:

The authors developed an algorithm for dynamic lung tumor tracking using list‐mode PET data and a respiratory motion signal, and demonstrated proof‐of‐principle for PET‐guided lung tumor tracking. The overall tracking error in phantom studies is less than 2 mm.
Brachial artery vasomotion and transducer pressure effect on measurements by active contour segmentation on ultrasound
Authors: Cary Theodore W. , Reamer Courtney B. , Sultan Laith R. , Mohler Emile R. , Sehgal Chandra M.
Published: January 2014

Purpose:

To use feed‐forward active contours (snakes) to track and measure brachial artery vasomotion on ultrasound images recorded in both transverse and longitudinal views; and to compare the algorithmˈs performance in each view.

Methods:

Longitudinal and transverse view ultrasound image sequences of 45 brachial arteries were segmented by feed‐forward active contour (FFAC). The segmented regions were used to measure vasomotion artery diameter, cross‐sectional area, and distention both as peak‐to‐peak diameter and as area. ECG waveforms were also simultaneously extracted frame‐by‐frame by thresholding a running finite‐difference image between consecutive images. The arterial and ECG waveforms were compared as they traced each phase of the cardiac cycle.

Results:

FFAC successfully segmented arteries in longitudinal and transverse views in all 45 cases. The automated analysis took significantly less time than manual tracing, but produced superior, well‐behaved arterial waveforms. Automated arterial measurements also had lower interobserver variability as measured by correlation, difference in mean values, and coefficient of variation. Although FFAC successfully segmented both the longitudinal and transverse images, transverse measurements were less variable. The cross‐sectional area computed from the longitudinal images was 27% lower than the area measured from transverse images, possibly due to the compression of the artery along the image depth by transducer pressure.

Conclusions:

FFAC is a robust and sensitive vasomotion segmentation algorithm in both transverse and longitudinal views. Transverse imaging may offer advantages over longitudinal imaging: transverse measurements are more consistent, possibly because the method is less sensitive to variations in transducer pressure during imaging.
A matter of collection and detection for intraoperative and noninvasive near‐infrared fluorescence molecular imaging: To see or not to see?
Authors: Zhu Banghe , Rasmussen John C. , Sevick‐Muraca Eva M.
Published: January 2014

Purpose:

Although fluorescence molecular imaging is rapidly evolving as a new combinational drug/device technology platform for molecularly guided surgery and noninvasive imaging, there remains no performance standards for efficient translation of “first‐in‐humans” fluorescent imaging agents using these devices.

Methods:

The authors employed a stable, solid phantom designed to exaggerate the confounding effects of tissue light scattering and to mimic low concentrations (nM–pM) of near‐infrared fluorescent dyes expected clinically for molecular imaging in order to evaluate and compare the commonly used charge coupled device (CCD) camera systems employed in preclinical studies and in human investigational studies.

Results:

The results show that intensified CCD systems offer greater contrast with larger signal‐to‐noise ratios in comparison to their unintensified CCD systems operated at clinically reasonable, subsecond acquisition times.

Conclusions:

Camera imaging performance could impact the success of future “first‐in‐humans” near‐infrared fluorescence imaging agent studies.
Effect of a 2-Week Joint-Mobilization Intervention on Single-Limb Balance and Ankle Arthrokinematics in Those With Chronic Ankle Instability
Authors: Hoch Matthew C. , Mullineaux David R. , Andreatta Richard D. , English Robert A. , Medina-McKeon Jennifer M. , Mattacola Carl G. , McKeon Patrick O.
Published: January 2014

Context:

A single talocrural joint-mobilization treatment has improved spatiotemporal measures of postural control but not ankle arthrokinematics in individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI). However, the effects of multiple treatment sessions on these aspects of function have not been investigated.

Objective:

To examine the effect of a 2-wk anterior-to-posterior joint-mobilization intervention on instrumented measures of single-limb-stance static postural control and ankle arthrokinematics in adults with CAI.

Design:

Repeated measures.

Setting:

Research laboratory.

Participants:

12 individuals with CAI (6 male, 6 female; age 27.4 ± 4.3 y, height 175.4 ± 9.78 cm, mass 78.4 ± 11.0 kg).

Intervention:

Subjects received 6 treatments sessions of talocrural grade II joint traction and grade III anterior-to-posterior joint mobilization over 2 wk.

Main Outcome Measures:

Instrumented measures of single-limb-stance static postural control (eyes open and closed) and anterior and posterior talar displacement and stiffness were assessed 1 wk before the intervention (baseline), before the first treatment (preintervention), 24–48 h after the final treatment (postintervention), and 1 wk later (1-wk follow-up). Postural control was analyzed as center-of-pressure velocity, center-of-pressure range, the mean of time-to-boundary minima, and standard deviation of time-to-boundary minima in the anteroposterior and mediolateral directions for each visual condition.

Results:

No significant differences were identified in any measures of postural control (P > .08) or ankle arthrokinematics (P > .21).

Conclusions:

The 2-wk talocrural joint-mobilization intervention did not alter instrumented measures of single-limb-stance postural control or ankle arthrokinematics. Despite the absence of change in these measures, this study continues to clarify the role of talocrural joint mobilization as a rehabilitation strategy for patients with CAI.
Children’s Perceptions of a District-Wide Physical Education Program
Authors: Prusak Keven A. , Davis Tirza , Pennington Todd R. , Wilkinson Carol
Published: January 2014

Couched in attitude theory, this follow-up study examines children-voiced perceptions of enjoyment and usefulness toward a district mandated elementary physical education (PE) program. Attitudes of 277 5th and 6th grade males and females from four representative schools from within a district were assessed in a mixed methods study. Survey results were analyzed to examine between groups, schools (based on SES), and gender differences. Twelve males and twelve females were selected from lowest and highest survey responders for follow-up interviews. Survey results indicated a generally positive attitudes (enjoyment: M = 2.71, SD = 0.35; usefulness M =2.69, SD = 0.35) with significant enjoyment differences (F(3, 266) = 5.627, p ≤ .001) noted between schools. Qualitative results define quality PE as enjoyable and useful when it (a) provided a fun, social, learning environment and activities, (b) made an impact on healthy knowledge and behaviors, and (c) consisted of well managed classes taught by engaging teachers.
Relationships Among Teachers’ Self-Efficacy and Students’ Motivation, Atmosphere, and Satisfaction in Physical Education
Authors: Pan Yi-Hsiang
Published: January 2014

The purpose of this study was to confirm the relationships among teachers’ self-efficacy, and students’ learning motivation, learning atmosphere, and learning satisfaction in senior high school physical education (PE). A sample of 462 PE teachers and 2681 students was drawn using stratified random sampling and cluster sampling from high schools in Taiwan. The research instruments were the Teachers’ Self-Efficacy Scale, and students’ Learning Motivation Scale, Learning Atmosphere Scale, and Learning Satisfaction Scale, which were designed by the researchers based on theories and existing instruments. Structural equation modeling was used to evaluate the fit of the hypothetical model. The results revealed that the model had acceptable fit. It was concluded that physical education teachers’ self-efficacy affected students’ learning motivation, learning atmosphere, and learning satisfaction; teachers’ self-efficacy also indirectly and positively influenced learning satisfaction, mediated by learning motivation and learning atmosphere.
A Peptide Hormone and Its Receptor Protein Kinase Regulate Plant Cell Expansion
Authors: Haruta Miyoshi , Sabat Grzegorz , Stecker Kelly , Minkoff Benjamin B. , Sussman Michael R.
Published: January 2014

Plant cells are immobile; thus, plant growth and development depend on cell expansion rather than cell migration. The molecular mechanism by which the plasma membrane initiates changes in the cell expansion rate remains elusive. We found that a secreted peptide, RALF (rapid alkalinization factor), suppresses cell elongation of the primary root by activating the cell surface receptor FERONIA in
Arabidopsis thaliana
. A direct peptide-receptor interaction is supported by specific binding of RALF to FERONIA and reduced binding and insensitivity to RALF-induced growth inhibition in
feronia
mutants. Phosphoproteome measurements demonstrate that the RALF-FERONIA interaction causes phosphorylation of plasma membrane H
+
–adenosine triphosphatase 2 at Ser
899
, mediating the inhibition of proton transport. The results reveal a molecular mechanism for RALF-induced extracellular alkalinization and a signaling pathway that regulates cell expansion.
Island Cells Control Temporal Association Memory
Authors: Kitamura Takashi , Pignatelli Michele , Suh Junghyup , Kohara Keigo , Yoshiki Atsushi , Abe Kuniya , Tonegawa Susumu
Published: January 2014

Entorhinal Cell Clusters

There is considerable interest in understanding the function of neurons in layer 2 of the medial entorhinal cortex and how they generate their unique firing patterns, which are important in the recall of facts and past events (see the Perspective by

Blair

).

Ray
et al.

(p.
891
, published online 23 January) investigated principal cells in layer 2 by immunoreactivity, projection patterns, microcircuit analysis, and assessment of temporal discharge properties in awake, freely moving animals. In tangential sections, pyramidal neurons were clustered into patches arranged in a hexagonal grid—very similar to the patterns observed in grid cell spatial firing. These patches received selective cholinergic innervation, which is critical for sustaining grid cell activity.

Kitamura
et al.

(p.
896
, published online 23 January) found that these cells drive a hippocampal circuit by projecting directly to the hippocampal CA1 area and synapsing with a distinct class of inhibitory neurons. This circuit provides feed-forward inhibition in combination with excitatory inputs from layer 3 cells of the medial entorhinal cortex, projecting to CA1 pyramidal cells to determine the strength and time window of temporal associative inputs.
Endothelial Cell-Derived Angiopoietin-2 Controls Liver Regeneration as a Spatiotemporal Rheostat
Authors: Hu Junhao , Srivastava Kshitij , Wieland Matthias , Runge Anja , Mogler Carolin , Besemfelder Eva , Terhardt Dorothee , Vogel Marion J. , Cao Liji , Korn Claudia , Bartels Susanne , Thomas Markus , Augustin Hellmut G.
Published: January 2014

Liver regeneration requires spatially and temporally precisely coordinated proliferation of the two major hepatic cell populations, hepatocytes and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs), to reconstitute liver structure and function. The underlying mechanisms of this complex molecular cross-talk remain elusive. Here, we show that the expression of Angiopoietin-2 (Ang2) in LSECs is dynamically regulated after partial hepatectomy. During the early inductive phase of liver regeneration, Ang2 down-regulation leads to reduced LSEC transforming growth factor–β1 production, enabling hepatocyte proliferation by releasing an angiocrine proliferative brake. During the later angiogenic phase of liver regeneration, recovery of endothelial Ang2 expression enables regenerative angiogenesis by controlling LSEC vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 expression. The data establish LSECs as a dynamic rheostat of liver regeneration, spatiotemporally orchestrating hepatocyte and LSEC proliferation through angiocrine- and autocrine-acting Ang2, respectively.
Increased Dust Deposition in the Pacific Southern Ocean During Glacial Periods
Authors: Lamy F. , Gersonde R. , Winckler G. , Esper O. , Jaeschke A. , Kuhn G. , Ullermann J. , Martinez-Garcia A. , Lambert F. , Kilian R.
Published: January 2014

Dust deposition in the Southern Ocean constitutes a critical modulator of past global climate variability, but how it has varied temporally and geographically is underdetermined. Here, we present data sets of glacial-interglacial dust-supply cycles from the largest Southern Ocean sector, the polar South Pacific, indicating three times higher dust deposition during glacial periods than during interglacials for the past million years. Although the most likely dust source for the South Pacific is Australia and New Zealand, the glacial-interglacial pattern and timing of lithogenic sediment deposition is similar to dust records from Antarctica and the South Atlantic dominated by Patagonian sources. These similarities imply large-scale common climate forcings, such as latitudinal shifts of the southern westerlies and regionally enhanced glaciogenic dust mobilization in New Zealand and Patagonia.
Adaptation of Innate Lymphoid Cells to a Micronutrient Deficiency Promotes Type 2 Barrier Immunity
Authors: Spencer S. P. , Wilhelm C. , Yang Q. , Hall J. A. , Bouladoux N. , Boyd A. , Nutman T. B. , Urban J. F. , Wang J. , Ramalingam T. R. , Bhandoola A. , Wynn T. A. , Belkaid Y.
Published: January 2014

How the immune system adapts to malnutrition to sustain immunity at barrier surfaces, such as the intestine, remains unclear. Vitamin A deficiency is one of the most common micronutrient deficiencies and is associated with profound defects in adaptive immunity. Here, we found that type 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3s) are severely diminished in vitamin A–deficient settings, which results in compromised immunity to acute bacterial infection. However, vitamin A deprivation paradoxically resulted in dramatic expansion of interleukin-13 (IL-13)–producing ILC2s and resistance to nematode infection in mice, which revealed that ILCs are primary sensors of dietary stress. Further, these data indicate that, during malnutrition, a switch to innate type 2 immunity may represent a powerful adaptation of the immune system to promote host survival in the face of ongoing barrier challenges.
Draft Genome Sequence of Clostridium botulinum Type B Strain Osaka05, Isolated from an Infant Patient with Botulism in Japan
Authors: Sakaguchi Yoshihiko , Hosomi Koji , Uchiyama Jumpei , Ogura Yoshitoshi , Umeda Kaoru , Sakaguchi Masakiyo , Kohda Tomoko , Mukamoto Masafumi , Misawa Naoaki , Matsuzaki Shigenobu , Hayashi Tetsuya , Kozaki Shunji
Published: January 2014

Clostridium botulinum
strain Osaka05, which has been isolated from an infant patient with botulism in Japan, is the first strain producing botulinum neurotoxin subtype B6. Here, we report the draft genome sequence of
C. botulinum
Osaka05.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Sugar Cane Endophyte Pseudomonas aurantiaca PB-St2, a Disease-Suppressive Bacterium with Antifungal Activity toward the Plant Pathogen
Colletotrichum falcatum
Authors: Mehnaz Samina , Bauer Judith S. , Gross Harald
Published: January 2014

The endophytic bacterium
Pseudomonas aurantiaca
PB-St2 exhibits antifungal activity and represents a biocontrol agent to suppress red rot disease of sugar cane. Here, we report the completely sequenced 6.6-Mb genome of
P. aurantiaca
PB-St2. The sequence contains a repertoire of biosynthetic genes for secondary metabolites that putatively contribute to its antagonistic activity and its plant-microbe interactions.
Draft Genome Sequence of Saccharomyces cerevisiae NAM34-4C, a Lactic Acid-Assimilating Industrial Yeast Strain
Authors: Sahara Takehiko , Fujimori Kazuhiro E. , Nezuo Maiko , Tsukahara Masatoshi , Tochigi Yuki , Ohgiya Satoru , Tang Yue-Qin , Kida Kenji , Taguchi Hisataka , Akamatsu Takashi , Kamagata Yoichi
Published: January 2014

We determined the genome sequence of industrial
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
strain NAM34-4C, which would be useful for bioethanol production. The approximately 11.5-Mb draft genome sequence of NAM34-4C will provide remarkable insights into metabolic engineering for effective production of bioethanol from biomass.
Revised Genome Sequence of Staphylococcus aureus Bacteriophage K
Authors: Gill Jason J.
Published: January 2014

Bacteriophage K is a member of the virulent Twort-like group of myophages infecting
Staphylococcus aureus
. The revised sequence presented here includes 12,436 bp of additional sequence not present in the previously available phage K genome (GenBank accession no. NC_005880) and updated annotations, and has been reopened at the predicted terminal repeat boundary.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Sclerotinia borealis
, a Psychrophilic Plant Pathogenic Fungus
Authors: Mardanov Andrey V. , Beletsky Alexey V. , Kadnikov Vitaly V. , Ignatov Alexander N. , Ravin Nikolai V.
Published: January 2014

Sclerotinia borealis
is a necrotrophic phytopathogenic fungus notable for its wide host range and environmental persistence. It grows at low temperatures, causing snow mold disease of crop plants. To understand the molecular mechanisms of its pathogenesis and adaptation to the psychrophilic lifestyle, we determined the 39.3-Mb draft genome sequence of
S. borealis
F-4128.
Draft Genome Sequence of a Human-Associated Isolate of
Methanobrevibacter arboriphilicus
, the Lowest-G+C-Content Archaeon
Authors: Khelaifia Saber , Garibal Marc , Robert Catherine , Raoult Didier , Drancourt Michel
Published: January 2014

We report the draft genome sequence of
Methanobrevibacter arboriphilicus
strain ANOR1, isolated from the human gut. Its 2.21-Mb genome exhibits a 25.46% G+C content, the lowest value among archaea. The genome of
M. arboriphilicus
contains a total of 2,111 open reading frames and three clusters of regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR) loci with associated Cas proteins.
Metagenomic Sequencing of Two Salton Sea Microbiomes
Authors: Hawley Erik R. , Schackwitz Wendy , Hess Matthias
Published: January 2014

The Salton Sea is the largest inland body of water in California, with salinities ranging from brackish freshwater to hypersaline. The lake experiences high nutrient input, and its surface water is exposed to temperatures up to 40°C. Here, we report the community profiles associated with surface water from the Salton Sea.
Complete Genome Sequence of Paenibacillus polymyxa CR1, a Plant Growth-Promoting Bacterium Isolated from the Corn Rhizosphere Exhibiting Potential for Biocontrol, Biomass Degradation, and Biofuel Production
Authors: Eastman Alexander W. , Weselowski Brian , Nathoo Naeem , Yuan Ze-Chun
Published: January 2014

Here we report the complete genome sequence of the bacterium
Paenibacillus polymyxa
CR1 (accession no. CP006941), which consists of one circular chromosome of 6,024,666 bp with 5,283 coding sequences (CDS), 87 tRNAs, and 12 rRNA operons. Data presented will allow for further insights into the mechanisms underpinning agriculturally and industrially relevant processes.
Complete Genome Sequence of Salmonella enterica Serovar Agona Pulsed-Field Type SAGOXB.0066, Cause of a 2008 Pan-European Outbreak
Authors: McCusker Matthew P. , Hokamp Karsten , Buckley James F. , Wall Patrick G. , Martins Marta , Fanning Séamus
Published: January 2014

Salmonella enterica
serovar Agona is in the top 10 most common nontyphoidal serovars reported in humans in the European Union. Here we report the complete genome sequence of an
S. enterica
serovar Agona isolate, designated 24249, that was the cause of a pan-European outbreak in 2008 with 163 confirmed cases reported.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Williamsia
sp. Strain D3, Isolated From the Darwin Mountains, Antarctica
Authors: Guerrero Leandro D. , Makhalanyane Thulani P. , Aislabie Jackie M. , Cowan Don A.
Published: January 2014

Actinobacteria are the dominant taxa in Antarctic desert soils. Here, we describe the first draft genome of a member of the genus
Williamsia
(strain D3) isolated from Antarctic soil. The genome of this psychrotolerant bacterium may help to elucidate crucial survival mechanisms for organisms inhabiting cold desert soil systems.
Evaluation of the Bruker MALDI Biotyper for Identification of Gram-Positive Rods: Development of a Diagnostic Algorithm for the Clinical Laboratory
Authors: Schulthess Bettina , Bloemberg Guido V. , Zbinden Reinhard , Böttger Erik C. , Hombach Michael
Published: January 2014

Reported matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) identification rates of Gram-positive rods (GPR) are low compared to identification rates of Gram-positive cocci. In this study, three sample preparation methods were compared for MALDI-TOF MS identification of 190 well-characterized GPR strains: direct transfer, direct transfer-formic acid preparation, and ethanol-formic acid extraction. Using the interpretation criteria recommended by the manufacturer, identification rates were significantly higher for direct transfer-formic acid preparation and ethanol-formic acid extraction than for direct transfer. Reducing the species cutoff from 2.0 to 1.7 significantly increased species identification rates. In a subsequent prospective study, 215 clinical GPR isolates were analyzed by MALDI-TOF MS, and the results were compared to those for identification using conventional methods, with discrepancies being resolved by 16S rRNA and
rpoB
gene analysis. Using the direct transfer-formic acid preparation and a species cutoff of 1.7, congruencies on the genus and species levels of 87.4% and 79.1%, respectively, were achieved. In addition, the rate of nonidentified isolates dropped from 12.1% to 5.6% when using an extended database, i.e., the Bruker database amended by reference spectra of the 190 GPR of the retrospective study. Our data demonstrate three ways to improve GPR identification by the Bruker MALDI Biotyper, (i) optimize sample preparation using formic acid, (ii) reduce cutoff scores for species identification, and (iii) expand the database. Based on our results, we suggest an identification algorithm for the clinical laboratory combining MALDI-TOF MS with nucleic acid sequencing.
Performance of Phenotypic Tests for Detection of Penicillinase in Staphylococcus aureus Isolates from Australia
Authors: Papanicolas Lito E. , Bell Jan M. , Bastian Ivan
Published: January 2014

Recent studies have shown that chromogenic cephalosporin tests are inferior to disc zone edge tests in detecting penicillinase in
Staphylococcus aureus
isolates, resulting in a change to CLSI and EUCAST guidelines in 2012. We sought to confirm these findings using Australian isolates and compare the performance of the CLSI and EUCAST methods, which use different disc strengths, penicillin at 10 units (P10) and 1 unit (P1), respectively. Using
blaZ
PCR as the reference standard, the sensitivities of the tests for detection of penicillinase production were as follows: Cefinase disc test, 24/38 isolates (63%); P10 disc zone edge test, 34/38 isolates (89%); P10 disc diameter test, 25/38 isolates (66%); P1 disc zone edge test, 38/38 isolates (100%); and P1 disc diameter test, 38/38 isolates (100%). We also found that the P10 disc zone edge test reading was interpreted differently by the clinical laboratory and the study investigators in 11% of instances. Our findings support those of previous studies showing that chromogenic cephalosporin-based β-lactamase tests are inferior to disc methods in detecting
S. aureus
penicillinase. We also conclude that the EUCAST method using the P1 disc has the best performance, particularly because the P1 disc zone diameter reading closely correlated with penicillinase production and reading of the disc zone diameter is less subjective than reading of the zone edge.
Simultaneous Detection and Discrimination of Virulent and Benign Dichelobacter nodosus in Sheep of Flocks Affected by Foot Rot and in Clinically Healthy Flocks by Competitive Real-Time PCR
Authors: Stäuble Anna , Steiner Adrian , Frey Joachim , Kuhnert Peter
Published: January 2014

Ovine foot rot caused by
Dichelobacter nodosus
is affecting sheep worldwide. The current diagnostic methods are difficult and cumbersome. Here, we present a competitive real-time PCR based on allelic discrimination of the protease genes
aprV2
and
aprB2
. This method allows direct detection and differentiation of virulent and benign
D. nodosus
from interdigital skin swabs in a single test. Clinically affected sheep harbored high loads of only virulent strains, whereas healthy sheep had lower loads of predominantly benign strains.
Divergent H7 Immunogens Offer Protection from H7N9 Virus Challenge
Authors: Krammer Florian , Albrecht Randy A. , Tan Gene S. , Margine Irina , Hai Rong , Schmolke Mirco , Runstadler Jonathan , Andrews Sarah F. , Wilson Patrick C. , Cox Rebecca J. , Treanor John J. , García-Sastre Adolfo , Palese Peter
Published: January 2014

The emergence of avian H7N9 viruses in humans in China has renewed concerns about influenza pandemics emerging from Asia. Vaccines are still the best countermeasure against emerging influenza virus infections, but the process from the identification of vaccine seed strains to the distribution of the final product can take several months. In the case of the 2009 H1N1 pandemic, a vaccine was not available before the first pandemic wave hit and therefore came too late to reduce influenza morbidity. H7 vaccines based on divergent isolates of the Eurasian and North American lineages have been tested in clinical trials, and seed strains and reagents are already available and can potentially be used initially to curtail influenza-induced disease until a more appropriately matched H7N9 vaccine is ready. In a challenge experiment in the mouse model, we assessed the efficacy of both inactivated virus and recombinant hemagglutinin vaccines made from seed strains that are divergent from H7N9 from each of the two major H7 lineages. Furthermore, we analyzed the cross-reactive responses of sera from human subjects vaccinated with heterologous North American and Eurasian lineage H7 vaccines to H7N9. Vaccinations with inactivated virus and recombinant hemagglutinin protein preparations from both lineages raised hemagglutination-inhibiting antibodies against H7N9 viruses and protected mice from stringent viral challenges. Similar cross-reactivity was observed in sera of human subjects from a clinical trial with a divergent H7 vaccine. Existing H7 vaccine candidates based on divergent strains could be used as a first line of defense against an H7N9 pandemic. In addition, this also suggests that H7N9 vaccines that are currently under development might be stockpiled and used for divergent avian H7 strains that emerge in the future.

IMPORTANCE
Sporadic human infections with H7N9 viruses started being reported in China in the early spring of 2013. Despite a significant drop in the number of infections during the summer months of 2013, an increased number of cases has already been reported for the 2013-2014 winter season. The high case fatality rate, the ability to bind to receptors in the human upper respiratory tract in combination with several family clusters, and the emergence of neuraminidase inhibitor-resistant variants that show no loss of pathogenicity and the ability to transmit in animal models have raised concerns about a potential pandemic and have spurred efforts to produce vaccine candidates. Here we show that antigen preparations from divergent H7 strains are able to induce protective immunity against H7N9 infection.
Bizarre parosteal osteochondromatous proliferation (Nora's lesion) of phalanx in a child
Authors: Kumar Ashok , Khan Shah Alam , Sampath Kumar Venkatesan , Sharma Mehar Chand
Published: January 2014

Bizarre parosteal osteochondromatous proliferation (BPOP; also called Nora’s lesion) is a benign surface osteocartilaginous lesion, which is infrequently reported in world literature. The condition is classically described in the short tubular bones of hands and feet in the second and third decades of life. We present a case report of BPOP of the middle phalanx of middle finger in a 4-year-old girl. The child underwent a wide excision and remained asymptomatic at 2.5 years of follow-up. Our case report highlights the importance of suspecting Nora’s lesion in a child. It also helps in delineating a differential diagnosis and discusses the management principles of this rare osteocartilaginous lesion.
Six tips for a successful dermatology visit
Authors: Forsythe Peter
Published: January 2014

Skin conditions are extremely common in small animal practice, but the complex nature of the causes can make diagnosis and treatment a challenge. This article outlines six tips that should help achieve a successful dermatology visit for the client and veterinary surgeon alike.
Responses of macroinvertebrate drift, benthic assemblages, and trout foraging to hydropeaking
Authors: Miller Scott W. , Judson Sarah
Published: January 2014

We utilized both hydropeaking and experimental flows to quantify responses of macroinvertebrate drift, benthic assemblages, and fish consumption to double-peak release patterns. Our results suggest that changes in discharge may have a greater impact on macroinvertebrate drift than absolute flow levels, such that mean daily drift biomass was significantly higher during double-peaking; however, drift increases were sustained for only 30–60 days despite ongoing hydropeaking. Drift increases were proportional to peak magnitude, with drift biomass peaking during the rising limb of the hydrograph and declining prior to the cessation of peak flows. Both within- and among-day drift hysteresis appeared related to patterns in vegetative export, principally Cladophora and Amblystegium. Increases in macroinvertebrate drift were not associated with detectable reductions in benthic densities, while we observed inconsistent and modest taxa richness reductions. Lastly, gut fullness for both brown and rainbow trout increased significantly following periods of hydropeaking, suggesting that the effects of double-peaking can propagate through tail-water food webs.
Mucin inhibitsPseudomonas aeruginosabiofilm formation by significantly enhancing twitching motility
Authors: Haley Cecily L. , Kruczek Cassandra , Qaisar Uzma , Colmer-Hamood Jane A. , Hamood Abdul N.
Published: January 2014

In Pseudomonas aeruginosa, type IV pili (TFP)-dependent twitching motility is required for development of surface-attached biofilm (SABF), yet excessive twitching motility is detrimental once SABF is established. In this study, we show that mucin significantly enhanced twitching motility and decreased SABF formation in strain PAO1 and other P. aeruginosa strains in a concentration-dependent manner. Mucin also disrupted partially established SABF. Our analyses revealed that mucin increased the amount of surface pilin and enhanced transcription of the pilin structural gene pilA. Mucin failed to enhance twitching motility in P. aeruginosa mutants defective in genes within the pilin biogenesis operons pilGHI/pilJK-chpA-E. Furthermore, mucin did not enhance twitching motility nor reduce biofilm development by chelating iron. We also examined the role of the virulence factor regulator Vfr in the effect of mucin. In the presence or absence of mucin, PAOΔvfr produced a significantly reduced SABF. However, mucin partially complemented the twitching motility defect of PAOΔvfr. These results suggest that mucin interferes with SABF formation at specific concentrations by enhancing TFP synthesis and twitching motility, that this effect, which is iron-independent, requires functional Vfr, and only part of the Vfr-dependent effect of mucin on SABF development occurs through twitching motility.
The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Virtual Element Method
Authors: Beirão da Veiga L. , Brezzi F. , Marini L. D. , Russo A.
Published: January 2014

We present the essential ingredients in the Virtual Element Method for a simple linear elliptic second-order problem. We emphasize its computer implementation, which will enable interested readers to readily implement the method.
Finite volume schemes for diffusion equations: Introduction to and review of modern methods
Authors: Droniou Jerome
Published: January 2014

We present Finite Volume methods for diffusion equations on generic meshes, that received important coverage in the last decade or so. After introducing the main ideas and construction principles of the methods, we review some literature results, focusing on two important properties of schemes (discrete versions of well-known properties of the continuous equation): coercivity and minimum–maximum principles. Coercivity ensures the stability of the method as well as its convergence under assumptions compatible with real-world applications, whereas minimum–maximum principles are crucial in case of strong anisotropy to obtain physically meaningful approximate solutions.
WELL-POSEDNESS AND ANALYTICITY FOR AN INTEGRABLE TWO-COMPONENT SYSTEM WITH CUBIC NONLINEARITY
Authors: MI YONGSHENG , MU CHUNLAI
Published: January 2014

We study the Cauchy problem associated with a new integrable two-component system with cubic nonlinearity, which was recently proposed by Song, Qu and Qiao. We establish the local well-posedness in a range of the Besov spaces. Moreover, for analytic initial data, we show that its solutions are analytic in both variables, globally in space and locally in time, which extend a result by Danchin, and Himonas et al. to more complex equations.
A Jacobi theta series and its transformation laws
Authors: Krauel Matthew
Published: January 2014

We consider a generalization of Jacobi theta series and show that every such function is a quasi-Jacobi form. Under certain conditions we establish transformation laws for these functions with respect to the Jacobi group and prove such functions are Jacobi forms. In establishing these results, we construct other functions which are also Jacobi forms. These results are motivated by applications in the theory of vertex operator algebras.
Computations with Witt vectors and the Greenberg transform
Authors: Finotti Luís R. A.
Published: January 2014

In this paper, we give formulas for the coordinates of the Greenberg transform of a polynomial over rings of Witt vectors. Besides being of independent theoretical interest, these formulas can be used to obtain improvement on computations with Witt vectors of arbitrary length in cases where these cannot be reduced to computation on well-known local rings.
Complex matrix interpolation model of the S-transform for electric load movement forecast
Authors: Yang Zong-Chang
Published: January 2014

Electric load movement forecast is increasingly importance for the industry. This study addresses the load movement forecast modeling based on complex matrix interpolation of the S-transform (ST). In complex matrix of time-frequency representation of the ST, each row follows conjugate symmetric property and each column appears a certain degree of similarity. Based on these characteristics, a complex matrix interpolation method for the time-frequency representation of the ST is proposed to interpolate each row of the complex matrix based on the conjugate symmetric property, and then to perform nearest-neighbor interpolation on each column. Then with periodic extension for daily and yearly electric load movement, a forecast model employing the complex matrix interpolation of the ST is introduced. The forecast approach is applied to predict daily load movement of the European Network on Intelligent Technologies (EUNITE) load dataset and annual electric load movement of State Gird Corporation of China and its branches in 2005 and 2006. Result analysis indicates workability and effectiveness of the proposed method.
Rock-magnetic evidence for the low-temperature emplacement of the Habushiura pyroclastic density current, Niijima Island, Japan
Authors: Nakaoka Reina , Suzuki-Kamata Keiko
Published: January 2014

The emplacement temperatures of accidental and juvenile fragments in the Habushiura pyroclastic density current (PDC) deposit were estimated using analysis of rock magnetism. The Habushiura PDC was generated in a costal or shallow offshore area during the early stage of the AD 886 phreatomagmatic eruption on Niijima Island, Japan. We collected 160 samples from 11 beds, which include three lithofacies types: a massive lapilli tuff (Facies A); a graded and/or diffusely stratified lapilli tuff (Facies B); and a swarm of large pumice (Facies C). Juvenile specimens from Facies A and C show a wide range of emplacement temperatures, from less than 150 °C up to 300 °C, in contrast with the emplacement temperatures lower than 150 °C of Facies B. Morphological features of the ash components and random changes in palaeomagnetic direction by stepwise thermal demagnetization indicate that low-temperature emplacement occurred by phreatomagmatic eruptions and ingestion of ambient air by the turbulent current. The emplacement temperatures of accidental fragments were up to 380 °C, which is higher than juvenile fragments. They are thought to have cooled more slowly than juvenile fragments due to the smaller surface area with respect to their volume.
Anomaly Monitoring Method for Key Components of Satellite
Authors: Peng Jian , Fan Linjun , Xiao Weidong , Tang Jun
Published: January 2014

This paper presented a fault diagnosis method for key components of satellite, called Anomaly Monitoring Method (AMM), which is made up of state estimation based on Multivariate State Estimation Techniques (MSET) and anomaly detection based on Sequential Probability Ratio Test (SPRT). On the basis of analysis failure of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), we divided the failure of LIBs into internal failure, external failure, and thermal runaway and selected electrolyte resistance (Re) and the charge transfer resistance (Rct) as the key parameters of state estimation. Then, through the actual in-orbit telemetry data of the key parameters of LIBs, we obtained the actual residual value (RX) and healthy residual value (RL) of LIBs based on the state estimation of MSET, and then, through the residual values (RXandRL) of LIBs, we detected the anomaly states based on the anomaly detection of SPRT. Lastly, we conducted an example of AMM for LIBs, and, according to the results of AMM, we validated the feasibility and effectiveness of AMM by comparing it with the results of threshold detective method (TDM).
Vitamin D and the Immune System from the Nephrologist's Viewpoint
Authors: Lang Cheng-Lin , Wang Min-Hui , Chiang Chih-Kang , Lu Kuo-Cheng
Published: January 2014

Vitamin D and its analogues are widely used as treatments by clinical nephrologists, especially when treating chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism. As CKD progresses, the ability to compensate for elevations in parathyroid hormone (PTH) and fibroblast growth factor-23 and for decreases in 1,25(OH)2D3becomes inadequate, which results in hyperphosphatemia, abnormal bone disorders, and extra-skeletal calcification. In addition to its calciotropic effect on the regulation of calcium, phosphate, and parathyroid hormone, vitamin D has many other noncalciotropic effects, including controlling cell differentiation/proliferation and having immunomodulatory effects. There are several immune dysregulations that can be noted when renal function declines. Physicians need to know well both the classical and nonclassical functions of vitamin D. This review is an analysis from the nephrologist's viewpoint and focuses on the relationship between the vitamin D and the immune system, together with vitamin's clinical use to treat kidney diseases.
PHBV/PAM Scaffolds with Local Oriented Structure through UV Polymerization for Tissue Engineering
Authors: Ke Yu , Wu Gang , Wang Yingjun
Published: January 2014

Locally oriented tissue engineering scaffolds can provoke cellular orientation and direct cell spread and migration, offering an exciting potential way for the regeneration of the complex tissue. Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) scaffolds with locally oriented hydrophilic polyacrylamide (PAM) inside the macropores of the scaffolds were achieved through UV graft polymerization. The interpenetrating PAM chains enabled good interconnectivity of PHBV/PAM scaffolds that presented a lower porosity and minor diameter of pores than PHBV scaffolds. The pores with diameter below 100 μm increased to 82.15% of PHBV/PAM scaffolds compared with 31.5% of PHBV scaffolds. PHBV/PAM scaffold showed a much higher compressive elastic modulus than PHBV scaffold due to PAM stuffing. At 5 days of culturing, sheep chondrocytes spread along the similar direction in the macropores of PHBV/PAM scaffolds. The locally oriented PAM chains might guide the attachment and spreading of chondrocytes and direct the formation of microfilamentsviacontact guidance.
Nested Variant of Urothelial Carcinoma
Authors: Venyo Anthony Kodzo-Grey
Published: January 2014

Background. Nested variant of urothelial carcinoma was added to the WHO’s classification in 2004.Aims. To review the literature on nested variant of urothelial carcinoma.Results. About 200 cases of the tumour have been reported so far and it has the ensuing morphological features: large numbers of small confluent irregular nests of bland-appearing, closely packed, haphazardly arranged, and poorly defined urothelial cells infiltrating the lamina propria and the muscularis propria. The tumour has a bland histomorphologic appearance, has an aggressive biological behaviour, and has at times been misdiagnosed as a benign lesion which had led to a significant delay in the establishment of the correct diagnosis and contributing to the advanced stage of the disease. Immunohistochemically, the tumour shares some characteristic features with high-risk conventional urothelial carcinomas such as high proliferation index and loss of p27 expression. However, p53, bcl-2, or EGF-r immunoreactivity is not frequently seen. The tumour must be differentiated from a number of proliferative lesions of the urothelium.Conclusions. Correct and early diagnosis of this tumour is essential to provide early curative treatment to avoid diagnosis at an advanced stage. A multicentre trial is required to identify treatment options that would improve the outcome of this tumour.
Antimicrobial Activity ofCladonia verticillarisLichen Preparations on Bacteria and Fungi of Medical Importance
Authors: Ramos Dalila de Brito Marques , Gomes Francis Soares , Napoleão Thiago Henrique , Paiva Patrícia Maria Guedes , da Silva Michele Dalvina Correia , Barroso Coelho Luana Cassandra Breitenbach
Published: January 2014

Cladonia verticillarislichen lectin (ClaveLL) was purified using a previously established protocol and then evaluated for its potential antimicrobial activity. Initially, the autochthonous lichen was submitted to extraction with sodium phosphate buffer pH 7.0, followed by filtration and centrifugation to obtain crude extract. A salt fractionation was performed with 30% ammonium sulfate. After centrifugation, the protein fraction was loaded onto molecular exclusion chromatography using Sephadex G-100 matrix to purify active lectin. ClaveLL showed antibacterial activity against Gram-positive (Bacillus subtilis,Staphylococcus aureus, andEnterococcus faecalis) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coliandKlebsiella pneumoniae) assayed strains, with greater inhibitory effect on growth ofE. coli(MIC of 7.18 μg mL−1). The lowest minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC, 57.4 μg mL−1) was detected againstE. faecalis. The antifungal assay performed withTrichophyton mentagrophytes,Microsporum gypseum,Trichophyton rubrum,Trichosporon cutaneum, andTrichosporon asahievaluated crude extract, fraction, and ClaveLL preparations. ClaveLL was the most active againstT. rubrumwith an inhibition percentage of 35% compared to negative control (phosphate buffer). Extract and fraction showed better activity on growth inhibition ofT. mentagrophytes(35%). The results indicate the potential of ClaveLL and otherC. verticillarispreparations as antimicrobial agents useful for applications focusing on human health.
Nonlinear Double-Layer Bragg Waveguide: Analytical and Numerical Approaches to Investigate Waveguiding Problem
Authors: Smirnov Yury G. , Smol’kin Eugenii Yu. , Valovik Dmitry V.
Published: January 2014

The paper is concerned with propagation of surface TE waves in a circular nonhomogeneous two-layered dielectric waveguide filled with nonlinear medium. The problem is reduced to the analysis of a
nonlinear integral equation with a kernel in the form of the Green function. The existence of propagating TE waves for chosen nonlinearity (the Kerr law) is proved using the contraction mapping method. Conditions under which k waves can propagate are obtained, and intervals of localization of the corresponding propagation constants are found. For numerical solution of the problem, a method based on solving an auxiliary Cauchy problem (the shooting method) is proposed. In numerical experiment, two types of nonlinearities are considered and compared: the Kerr nonlinearity and nonlinearity with saturation. New propagation regime is found.