bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The molecular basis of low activity levels of coagulation factor VII: a Brazilian cohort
Authors: Rabelo F.Y. , Jardim L. L. , Landau M. B. , Gadelha T. , Corrêa M. F. B. , Pereira I.F.M. , Rezende S. M.
Published: April 2015

Inherited factor VII (FVII) deficiency is the most common among the rare bleeding disorders. It is transmitted as an autosomal recessive inheritance, due to mutations in the FVII gene (F7). Molecular studies of FVII deficiency are rare in non‐Caucasian populations. The aim of the study was to evaluate the molecular basis behind low levels of FVII activity (FVII:C) levels in a cohort of Brazilian patients. A total of 34 patients with low FVII levels were clinically evaluated and submitted to laboratory tests, among these, prothrombin time and FVII:C, with different thromboplastins. All exons and intron/exon boundaries of F7 were amplified and sequenced. A total of 14 genetic alterations were identified, of which six were described previously, c.1091G>A, c.1151C>T, c.‐323_‐313insCCTATATCCT, c.285G>A, c.525C>T, c.1238G>A and eight (54.0%) and eight were new, c.128G>A, c.252C>T, c.348G>A, c.417G>A, c.426G>A, c.745_747delGTG, c.843G>A and c.805+52C>T. In addition to the mutation c.1091G>A, known as FVII Padua, the mutation c.1151C>T also presented discrepant FVII:C levels when tested with human and rabbit brain thromboplastin. There was no association between phenotype and genotype. Most of the identified genetic alterations found were polymorphisms. Low levels of FVII:C in this population were mostly related to polymorphisms in F7 and associated with a mild clinical phenotype. Mutation c.1151C>T was associated with discrepant levels of FVII:C using different thromboplastins, such as reported with FVII Padua.
Indirect food web interactions affect predation of Tengmalm's Owls Aegolius funereus nests by Pine Martens Martes martes according to the alternative prey hypothesis
Authors: Zárybnická Markéta , Riegert Jan , Kouba Marek
Published: April 2015

Although population cycles of rodents are geographically widespread and occur in a number of rodent species, higher‐order food web interactions mediated by predator–rodent dynamics have primarily been described from boreal and arctic biomes. During periods of low rodent abundance, predators may switch to alternative prey, which may affect other predators directly or indirectly. Using a long‐term dataset, we assessed the frequency of Pine Marten Martes martes predation on the nests of Tengmalm's Owl Aegolius funereus during periods of fluctuating rodent abundance in Central Europe. The number of nests predated by Pine Martens was positively correlated with the annual number of nests available. The probability of predation by Pine Martens on Tengmalm's Owl nests decreased with increasing spring abundance index of Apodemus mice, but was not related to the abundance index of Myodes and Microtus voles, pooled rodent abundance or age of the nestbox. Additionally, we found no relationship between the breeding frequency (i.e. the number of nesting attempts per nestboxes available) and an abundance index of Microtus and Myodes voles, Apodemus mice or overall rodent abundance. Our results demonstrate, for the first time in a temperate area, that during periods of low Apodemus mouse abundance, the switching response of an opportunistic mammalian predator can lead to indirect food web interactions through an increase in nest predation on a sympatric avian predator.
Immunoglobulin G4‐related disease in the urinary bladder
Authors: Dropkin Benjamin M , Ingimarsson Johann P , Jones Jonathan D , Pettus Jason R , Seigne John D
Published: April 2015

Immunoglobulin G4‐related disease is a fibroinflammatory condition of unclear etiology that can present with inflammatory changes and enlargement of a wide variety of organs, most commonly in the gastrointestinal tract. A diagnosis requires an elevated serum immunoglobulin G4 concentration and a tissue biopsy showing a dense plasma cell infiltrate with an increased percentage of immunoglobulin G4+ plasma cells. This disease infrequently presents in the genitourinary tract, and as such might be unfamiliar to and potentially overlooked by urologists. Here we present the third reported case of immunoglobulin G4‐related disease manifesting as a mass in the urinary bladder.
Prevalence of incidental pulmonary nodules on computed tomography of the thorax in trauma patients
Authors: Hammerschlag G. , Cao J. , Gumm K. , Irving L. , Steinfort D.
Published: April 2015

Background/Aims

Lung cancer is the third leading cause of death in high‐income countries. Early detection leads to improved clinical outcomes, with evidence showing that lung cancer screening reduces lung cancer mortality. Knowledge of the population prevalence of pulmonary nodules affects the efficacy and cost‐effectiveness of a local screening programme.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of our trauma database looking for the prevalence of incidental pulmonary nodules on computed tomography of the thorax. Prevalence of nodules and follow up according to Fleischner Guidelines were reviewed.

Results

Two hundred and forty‐eight patients underwent a computed tomography thorax as part of their trauma assessment. 8.5% (21/248) had incidental pulmonary nodules. Eighty‐one per cent of these (17/21) required follow up according to the Fleischner Society Guidelines. One was subsequently diagnosed with primary lung cancer, one with metastatic sigmoid cancer and one with invasive aspergillus.

Conclusions

Incidental pulmonary nodules are common in the general population. This has implications for possible lung cancer screening recommendations in the Australian population. Referral and/or review systems are essential to ensure adequate follow up of incidental findings, as it is likely some patients are not receiving adequate follow up at present.
Is excessive acetaminophen intake associated with transaminitis in adult patients with dengue fever?
Authors: Pandejpong D. , Saengsuri P. , Rattarittamrong R. , Rujipattanakul T. , Chouriyagune C.
Published: April 2015

Background

Dengue, an endemic infection causing severe flu‐like symptoms and fever, is often treated with high‐dose acetaminophen that can exceed recommended daily dosages. This leads to hepatotoxicity, although the underlying mechanism is poorly understood. We hypothesised that excessive acetaminophen causes hepatic toxicity in dengue patients.

Aims

To investigate a correlation between elevated serum transaminases and excessive acetaminophen intake, and other aggravating factors of liver injury in dengue cases.

Methods

This prospective observational study obtained blood samples from 150 participants with acute febrile illness for dengue serological tests, blood counts, and the detection of serum transaminases and acetaminophen levels. Other factors were determined by questionnaire.

Results

Of 150 participants enrolled, 77 had dengue fever. Abnormally high serum aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase levels were present in 97.0% and 75.3% of dengue cases respectively. Multivariate analysis of cases with increased serum transaminases more than threefold normal upper limits indicated that male gender (odds ratio (OR) = 3.62, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.38–9.42) and consuming >8 g acetaminophen orally (OR = 4.62, 95% CI 1.37–13.18) correlated with transaminitis. No correlation was found for other factors such as age, fever day at presentation, body mass index, alcohol intake or dengue severity classification (all P > 0.05). Chronic alcohol consumption was higher in non‐dengue (2.6%) versus dengue cases (27.8%) (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Most dengue patients had mild‐to‐moderate transaminitis. Male gender and acetaminophen >8 g were associated with increased serum transaminases. Thus, 1000 mg acetaminophen every 8 h or <3000 mg/day is recommended for dengue cases. Chronic alcohol consumption might be protective against dengue infection.
Proton pump inhibitors utilisation in older people in New Zealand from 2005 to 2013
Authors: Nishtala P. S. , Soo L.
Published: April 2015

Background

The prescriptions for proton pump inhibitors (PPI) to treat acid‐related disorders continue to rise internationally and in New Zealand. Concerns have been raised regarding its widespread use, costs and potential adverse effects in older people.

Aims

This study aimed to characterise the utilisation of PPI by older people (aged 65 years and older) in New Zealand from 2005 to 2013.

Methods

Repeated cross‐sectional analysis of population‐level dispensing data was conducted from 1 January 2005 to 31 December 2013. Dispensing data for all PPI prescriptions from 2005 to 2013 were obtained from the Ministry of Health, New Zealand. Utilisation was measured in defined daily doses (DDD) per 1000 older people per day using the World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Drug Statistics Methodology anatomic, therapeutic and chemical classification system. Utilisation was standardised by sex, age, ethnicity and district health board.

Results

Overall PPI utilisation showed a 26.7% increase from 2005 to 2013, from 273.41 to 346.53 DDD/1000/day. The greatest utilisation was observed in individuals aged between 80 and 84 years. Middle Eastern/Latin American/African utilised more PPI compared with other ethnic groups.

Conclusions

Utilisation of PPI among older people in New Zealand increased by a fifth from 2005 to 2013. Given the concerns surrounding the long‐term PPI use in older people, the appropriateness of the increased utilisation needs to be continuously re‐evaluated by prescribers and health policy makers.
Intracardiac Electrode Detection of Early or Subendocardial Ischemia*
Authors: Siegel Sharon , Brodman Richard , Fisher John , Matos Jeffrey , Furman Seymour
Published: April 2015

SIEGEL, S., et al.: Intracardiac electrode detection of early or subendocardial ischemia. Subendocardial and early transmural ischemia may have significant clinical consequences while manifesting few ECG changes. Catheters were designed to be introduced transvenously into the right ventricle (RV), and coronary sinus (CS) and transarterially into the left ventricle (LV). The intracavitary electrodes were modified so that the electrodes would not contact the endocardium. In twenty‐two dogs ninety‐eight graded stenoses of the circumflex and left anterior descending coronary arteries were performed while electrograms (EGM) were recorded simultaneously from the intracardiac (IC) electrodes and surface ECG. Of those stenoses resulting in only nonspecific ECG changes, there were specific ischemic changes on 100% of LV, 60% of RV, and 89% of CS electrograms. Of those stenoses which resulted in no ECG change, there were specific ischemic changes in the 9/31 (29%) of LV, 3/31 (10%) of RV, and 6/31 (19%) of CS electrograms. Recognizable patterns of change occur on the intracardiac electrograms in response to both stenosis and reperfusion, earlier than any change on the ECG. Besides being more sensitive, intracardiac electrodes allowed for the detection of ischemia even in the presence of intraventricular conduction defects, strain patterns, and possibly other situations which might otherwise mask ischemic changes on the ECG.
A New Device and Method for Rapid Emergency Pacing: Clinical Use in 10 Patients
Authors: Gessman Lawrence J. , Wertheimer John H. , Davison John , Watson James , Weintraub William
Published: April 2015

GESSMAN, L.J., et al.: A new device and method for rapid emergency pacing: Clinical use in 10 patients. A new multipurpose transthoracic pacing device is described that will simultaneously enable transthoracic electrode insertion, intracardiac drug injection, and blood sample removal for blood gas determination, all via a single myocardial needle insertion. The device proved efficacious and safe in trials in an animal model. In clinical use in 10 emergency room patients with brady‐asystolic cardiac arrest, pacing was achieved in all 10 with one short‐term survivor. Median insertion time was 30 seconds. Median threshold in 6 patients was 2.5 mA (1 to 6). This new device enables reliable and rapid emergency treatment of brady‐asystolic cardiac arrest.
Two‐Dimensional Echocardiographic Recognition of a Pacing Catheter Perforation of the Interventricular Septum
Authors: Iliceto Sabino , Di Biase Matteo , Antonelli Gianfranco , Favale Stefano , Rizzon Paolo
Published: April 2015

ILICETO, S., et al.: Two‐dimensional echocardiographic recognition of a pacing catheter perforation of the interventricular septum. A case of a pacing catheter perforation of the interventricular septum is presented here. The entire catheter length was visualized by two‐dimensional real‐time echocardiography utilizing the subcostal approach; the catheter was seen entering the left ventricle through the high interventricular septum.
Hypertension in Older Persons: A Systematic Review of National and International Treatment Guidelines
Authors: Alhawassi Tariq M. , Krass Ines , Pont Lisa G.
Published: April 2015

Despite good evidence regarding the benefits of managing hypertension in elderly populations, the extent to which this evidence has been incorporated into national and international clinical hypertension treatment guidelines is unknown. A systematic review was conducted to identify recommendations in current national and international hypertension treatment guidelines with a focus on specific targets and treatment recommendations for older persons with uncomplicated hypertension. Guidelines for the management of hypertension published or updated over a 5‐year period (2009–2014) were identified by searching Medline, Google, and Google Scholar. Thirteen guidelines that met the predefined inclusion criteria were included in the review. Among these guidelines was considerable variation regarding who is considered an older person. However, there was general consensus regarding blood pressure targets. While current hypertension guidelines do include recommendations regarding management of uncomplicated hypertension in older populations, the depth and breadth of these recommendations vary considerably between guidelines and may limit the usefulness of such treatment guidelines to clinicians.
FGF21 deletion exacerbates diabetic cardiomyopathy by aggravating cardiac lipid accumulation
Authors: Yan Xiaoqing , Chen Jun , Zhang Chi , Zhou Shanshan , Zhang Zhiguo , Chen Jing , Feng Wenke , Li Xiaokun , Tan Yi
Published: April 2015

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) plays an important role in energy homoeostasis. The unaddressed question of FGF21's effect on the development and progression of diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is investigated here with FGF21 knockout (FGF21KO) diabetic mice. Type 1 diabetes was induced in both FGF21KO and C57BL/6J wild‐type (WT) mice via streptozotocin. At 1, 2 and 4 months after diabetes onset, the plasma FGF21 levels were significantly decreased in WT diabetic mice compared to controls. There was no significant difference between FGF21KO and WT diabetic mice in blood glucose and triglyceride levels. FGF21KO diabetic mice showed earlier and more severe cardiac dysfunction, remodelling and oxidative stress, as well as greater increase in cardiac lipid accumulation than WT diabetic mice. Western blots showed that increased cardiac lipid accumulation was accompanied by further increases in the expression of nuclear factor (erythroid‐derived 2)‐like 2 (Nrf2) and its target protein CD36, along with decreases in the phosphorylation of AMP‐activated protein kinase and the expression of hexokinase II and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma co‐activator 1α in the heart of FGF21KO diabetic mice compared to WT diabetic mice. Our results demonstrate that FGF21 deletion‐aggravated cardiac lipid accumulation is likely mediated by cardiac Nrf2‐driven CD36 up‐regulation, which may contribute to the increased cardiac oxidative stress and remodelling, and the eventual development of DCM. These findings suggest that FGF21 may be a therapeutic target for the treatment of DCM.
Extent of misconceptions, negative prejudices and discriminatory behaviour to psoriasis patients in France
Authors: Halioua B. , Sid‐Mohand D. , Roussel M.E. , Maury‐le‐Breton A. , de Fontaubert A. , Stalder J.F.
Published: April 2015

Background

The perception of stigmatization of patients with psoriasis is largely due to misconceptions and negative prejudice about this skin disease. ‘Uneducated’ judgments can give rise to discriminatory behaviours.

Objective

Evaluate the prevalence, in France, of misconceptions, negative prejudice and discriminatory behaviour towards psoriasis patients.

Methods

Online survey conducted in June 2011, aimed at 1005 persons aged 16–64 years, representative of the French population. The representativeness of the sample was ensured by quota methodology (gender, age, occupation of the interviewed person) after stratification by region and location category. The respondents were asked to respond to a questionnaire on their knowledge of psoriasis, their attitude and main feelings/perceptions towards psoriasis patients.

Results

About 62.4% of respondents recognize a lack of information about psoriasis and 19.7% have misconceptions about this disease. About 16.5% believe that psoriasis is contagious, 6.8% believe this skin disease is related to personal hygiene and 3.2% believe that it affects more people with low personal hygiene. About 50.0% of respondents show discriminatory behaviour towards psoriasis patients, reflected by reluctance to maintain friendship ties/a relationship of friendliness (7.6%), to have lunch or dinner with a person with visible manifestations (17.9%), to give a kiss on the cheek in greeting (29.7%), to shake hands (28.8%) and to have sexual relations/intercourse (44.1%). Patients with negative prejudice about the psoriasis frequently have misconceptions towards psoriasis patients. About 52.8% of respondents do not know anyone with psoriasis. Socio‐demographic indicators such as gender, education level and rural or urban way of life are not associated with an increased prevalence of misconceptions and/or discriminatory behaviour.

Conclusion

The lack of knowledge about psoriasis in France is important. There is an urgent need to strengthen information campaigns about psoriasis intended for the General Public.
The parasite Ichthyophonus sp. in Pacific herring from the coastal NE Pacific
Authors: Hershberger P K , Gregg J L , Hart L M , Moffitt S , Brenner R , Stick K , Coonradt E , Otis E O , Vollenweider J J , Garver K A , Lovy J , Meyers T R
Published: April 2015

The protistan parasite Ichthyophonus occurred in populations of Pacific herring Clupea pallasii Valenciennes throughout coastal areas of the NE Pacific, ranging from Puget Sound, WA north to the Gulf of Alaska, AK. Infection prevalence in local Pacific herring stocks varied seasonally and annually, and a general pattern of increasing prevalence with host size and/or age persisted throughout the NE Pacific. An exception to this zoographic pattern occurred among a group of juvenile, age 1+ year Pacific herring from Cordova Harbor, AK in June 2010, which demonstrated an unusually high infection prevalence of 35%. Reasons for this anomaly were hypothesized to involve anthropogenic influences that resulted in locally elevated infection pressures. Interannual declines in infection prevalence from some populations (e.g. Lower Cook Inlet, AK; from 20–32% in 2007 to 0–3% during 2009–13) or from the largest size cohorts of other populations (e.g. Sitka Sound, AK; from 62.5% in 2007 to 19.6% in 2013) were likely a reflection of selective mortality among the infected cohorts. All available information for Ichthyophonus in the NE Pacific, including broad geographic range, low host specificity and presence in archived Pacific herring tissue samples dating to the 1980s, indicate a long‐standing host–pathogen relationship.
Blocking the GABA transporter GAT‐1 ameliorates spinal GABAergic disinhibition and neuropathic pain induced by paclitaxel
Authors: Yadav Ruchi , Yan Xisheng , Maixner Dylan W. , Gao Mei , Weng Han‐Rong
Published: April 2015

Paclitaxel is a chemotherapeutic agent widely used for treating carcinomas. Patients receiving paclitaxel often develop neuropathic pain and have a reduced quality of life which hinders the use of this life‐saving drug. In this study, we determined the role of GABA transporters in the genesis of paclitaxel‐induced neuropathic pain using behavioral tests, electrophysiology, and biochemical techniques. We found that tonic GABA receptor activities in the spinal dorsal horn were reduced in rats with neuropathic pain induced by paclitaxel. In normal controls, tonic GABA receptor activities were mainly controlled by the GABA transporter GAT‐1 but not GAT‐3. In the spinal dorsal horn, GAT‐1 was expressed at presynaptic terminals and astrocytes while GAT‐3 was only expressed in astrocytes. In rats with paclitaxel‐induced neuropathic pain, the protein expression of GAT‐1 was increased while GAT‐3 was decreased. This was concurrently associated with an increase in global GABA uptake. The paclitaxel‐induced attenuation of GABAergic tonic inhibition was ameliorated by blocking GAT‐1 but not GAT‐3 transporters. Paclitaxel‐induced neuropathic pain was significantly attenuated by the intrathecal injection of a GAT‐1 inhibitor. These findings suggest that targeting GAT‐1 transporters for reversing disinhibition in the spinal dorsal horn may be a useful approach for treating paclitaxel‐induced neuropathic pain.

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Patients receiving paclitaxel for cancer therapy often develop neuropathic pain and have a reduced quality of life. In this study, we demonstrated that animals treated with paclitaxel develop neuropathic pain, have enhancements of GABA transporter‐1 protein expression and global GABA uptake, as well as suppression of GABAergic tonic inhibition in the spinal dorsal horn. Pharmacological inhibition of GABA transporter‐1 ameliorates the paclitaxel‐induced suppression of GABAergic tonic inhibition and neuropathic pain. Thus, targeting GAT‐1 transporters for reversing GABAergic disinhibition in the spinal dorsal horn could be a useful approach for treating paclitaxel‐induced neuropathic pain.
TGFβ1 inhibits IFNγ‐mediated microglia activation and protects mDA neurons from IFNγ‐driven neurotoxicity
Authors: Zhou Xiaolai , Zöller Tanja , Krieglstein Kerstin , Spittau Björn
Published: April 2015

Microglia‐mediated neuroinflammation has been reported as a common feature of familial and sporadic forms of Parkinson′s disease (PD), and a growing body of evidence indicates that onset and progression of PD correlates with the extent of neuroinflammatory responses involving Interferon γ (IFNγ). Transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) has been shown to be a major player in the regulation of microglia activation states and functions and, thus, might be a potential therapeutic agent by shaping microglial activation phenotypes during the course of neurodegenerative diseases such as PD. In this study, we demonstrate that TGFβ1 is able to block IFNγ‐induced microglia activation by attenuating STAT1 phosphorylation and IFNγRα expression. Moreover, we identified a set of genes involved in microglial IFNγ signaling transduction that were significantly down‐regulated upon TGFβ1 treatment, resulting in decreased sensitivity of microglia toward IFNγ stimuli. Interestingly, genes mediating negative regulation of IFNγ signaling, such as SOCS2 and SOCS6, were up‐regulated after TGFβ1 treatment. Finally, we demonstrate that TGFβ1 is capable of protecting midbrain dopaminergic (mDA) neurons from IFNγ‐driven neurotoxicity in mixed neuron‐glia cultures derived from embryonic day 14 (E14) midbrain tissue. Together, these data underline the importance of TGFβ1 as a key immunoregulatory factor for microglia by silencing IFNγ‐mediated microglia activation and, thereby, rescuing mDA neurons from IFNγ‐induced neurotoxicity.

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Interferon γ (IFNγ) is a potent pro‐inflammatory factor that triggers the activation of microglia and the subsequent release of neurotoxic factors. Transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) is able to inhibit the IFNγ‐mediated activation of microglia, which is characterized by the release of nitric oxide (NO) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα). By decreasing the expression of IFNγ‐induced genes as well as the signaling receptor IFNγR1, TGFβ1 reduces the responsiveness of microglia towards IFNγ. In mixed neuron‐glia cultures, TGFβ1 protects midbrain dopaminergic (mDA) neurons from IFNγ‐induced neurotoxicity.
Kohn's pores are not responsible for collateral ventilation between inflated and deflated segments: a microscopic study of pulmonary intersegmental septa in the human lung
Authors: Zuo Yizhi , Li Lin , Liu Shuwei
Published: April 2015

The composition of the pulmonary intersegmental septum has not been clearly identified by thoracic surgeons who regard Kohn's pores as the main channel that causes air leakage when determining the intersegmental septum by segmental ventilation. In this study, we aimed to examine this possible misinterpretation by focusing on a detailed description of the microscopic anatomy of the intersegmental septum. To accomplish this aim, 50 lung samples of the intersegmental septum from fresh cadavers without emphysema were studied by histological and electron microscopy. The findings of light microscopy and electron microscopy showed that the intersegmental septum is composed of three layers. The alveolar walls of adjacent segments serve as the superficial layer. They are integral, and no Kohn's pores were identified. The deep layer contains collagen fibres. As shown by our findings, Kohn's pores are absent within the intersegmental septum. Therefore, they could not be the main channel for the collateral ventilation between inflated and deflated lung segments during a pulmonary segmentectomy.
Acoustic radiation force impulse elastography of the spleen in healthy dogs of different ages
Authors: Maronezi M. C. , Feliciano M. A. R. , Crivellenti L. Z. , Simões A. P. R. , Bartlewski P. M. , Gill I. , Canola J. C. C. , Vicente W. R. R.
Published: April 2015

OBJECTIVES

To determine the elastographic characteristics of splenic parenchyma in clinically healthy dogs of various ages in order to establish preliminary qualitative and quantitative standards/reference intervals for this technique.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty three healthy dogs categorized as young, adult and elderly were used. Splenic echotexture, echogenicity, size and ages were assessed with B‐mode ultrasonography. Using qualitative elastography, the spleen (head, body and tail) was examined for homogeneity and presence of deformities. Shear velocities in different splenic segments were then quantitatively evaluated.

RESULTS

All splenic segments visualised with the B‐mode ultrasonography appeared normal. Different splenic segments examined with qualitative elastography were free of any detectable malformations and the images appeared as homogeneous dark areas. The mean shear velocity values were 2 · 32 m/s for head, 2 · 16 m/s for body and 2 · 25 m/s for tail of the spleen (P = 0 · 40), and they did not vary between the different age groups (P > 0 · 05).

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Quantitative and qualitative ARFI elastography of the spleen in clinically healthy dogs differing in age could be easily performed, and it may aid in the diagnosis and evaluation of splenic abnormalities routinely assessed in veterinary practice with B‐mode ultrasonography.
The chimerical genome of Isla del Coco feral pigs (Costa Rica), an isolated population since 1793 but with remarkable levels of diversity
Authors: Bianco E. , Soto H. W. , Vargas L. , Pérez‐Enciso M.
Published: April 2015

The history of domestic species and of their wild ancestors is not a simple one, and feral processes can clarify key aspects of this history, including the adaptive processes triggered by new environments. Here, we provide a comprehensive genomic study of Isla del Coco (Costa Rica) feral pigs, a unique population that was allegedly founded by two individuals and has remained isolated since 1793. Using SNP arrays and genome sequencing, we show that Cocos pigs are hybrids between Asian and European pigs, as are modern international pig breeds. This conclusively shows that, as early as the 18th century, British vessels were loading crossbred pigs in Great Britain and transporting them overseas. We find that the Y chromosome has Asian origin, which has not been reported in any international pig breed. Chinese haplotypes seem to have been transmitted independently between Cocos and other pig breeds, suggesting independent introgression events and a complex pattern of admixing. Although data are compatible with a founder population of N = 2, variability levels are as high in Cocos pigs as in international pig breeds (~1.9 SNPs/kb) and higher than in European wild boars or local breeds (~1.7 SNPs/kb). Nevertheless, we also report a 10‐Mb region with a marked decrease in variability across all samples that contains four genes (CPE, H3F3C, SC4MOL and KHL2) previously identified as highly differentiated between wild and domestic pigs. This work therefore illustrates how feral population genomic studies can help to resolve the history of domestic species and associated admixture events.
The intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii depends on the synthesis of long‐chain and very long‐chain unsaturated fatty acids not supplied by the host cell
Authors: Ramakrishnan Srinivasan , Docampo Melissa D. , MacRae James I. , Ralton Julie E. , Rupasinghe Thusitha , McConville Malcolm J. , Striepen Boris
Published: April 2015

Apicomplexa are parasitic protozoa that cause important human diseases including malaria, cryptosporidiosis and toxoplasmosis. The replication of these parasites within their target host cell is dependent on both salvage as well as de novo synthesis of fatty acids. In Toxoplasma gondii, fatty acid synthesis via the apicoplast‐localized FASII is essential for pathogenesis, while the role of two other fatty acid biosynthetic complexes remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that the ER‐localized fatty acid elongation (ELO) complexes are essential for parasite growth. Conditional knockdown of the nonredundant hydroxyacyl‐CoA dehydratase and enoyl‐CoA reductase enzymes in the ELO pathway severely repressed intracellular parasite growth. 13C‐glucose and 13C‐acetate labeling and comprehensive lipidomic analyses of these mutants showed a selective defect in synthesis of unsaturated long and very long‐chain fatty acids (LCFAs and VLCFAs) and depletion of phosphatidylinositol and phosphatidylethanolamine species containing unsaturated LCFAs and VLCFAs. This requirement for ELO pathway was bypassed by supplementing the media with specific fatty acids, indicating active but inefficient import of host fatty acids. Our experiments highlight a gap between the fatty acid needs of the parasite and availability of specific fatty acids in the host cell that the parasite has to close using a dedicated synthesis and modification pathway.
Invasive success and the evolution of enhanced weaponry
Authors: Gruntman Michal , Zieger Sinja , Tielbörger Katja
Published: April 2015

A key hypothesis that has been proposed to explain plants’ invasive success suggests that some invasive species produce allelochemicals that are novel against naïve neighbours at the introduced range and therefore provide an advantage there (novel weapons hypothesis – NWH). However, a seldom‐studied hypothesis suggests that invasive populations could not only possess novel weapons, but might also evolve their enhanced production. Moreover, so far no study has examined both the novelty and evolution of allelopathic effects. Here, we examined these two hypotheses in a set of experiments with the highly invasive plant Impatiens glandulifera. In the first experiment, we examined the evolution of allelopathic ability by comparing the inhibitory effects of leaf extracts from native versus invasive I. glandulifera on the germination success of its dominant neighbour Urtica dioica. In the following experiments, we examined the NWH by comparing the germination success of U. dioica seeds collected at the native versus invasive range of I. glandulifera, in response to either leaf extracts or soil trained with invasive I. glandulifera. The results of the first experiment indicate that invasive I. glandulifera exert a stronger inhibitory effect on the germination of U. dioica compared to their native counterparts, providing support for the hypothesis that allelopathic ability can evolve at the invasive range. However, the results of the two following experiments reveal no difference in the response of U. dioica from the native versus invasive range of I. glandulifera, to the allelopathic effects of either the leaf extracts or the trained soil. These results therefore do not provide support for the NWH, and suggest that increased allelopathy in invasive I. glandulifera might have been selected for by other processes. The results of this study call for biogeographical experiments that will examine not only the novelty but also the evolution of allelopathic effects in invasive plants.
Managing Logistics in Regional Banknote Supply Chain Under Security Concerns
Authors: Zhu Yunxia , Kumar Subodha , Rodriguez‐Sanchez Sara , Sriskandarajah Chelliah
Published: April 2015

We study the logistics problem faced by Regional Branches (RBs) of a central bank in managing the currency supply under security concerns. While making banknote supply decisions to Sub‐Branches (SBs), the management of RB must achieve two goals simultaneously: (i) guarantee that each SB has sufficient inventories of all denominations of banknotes to satisfy the demands from all commercial banks within its service area, and (ii) control the annual spending on this banknote supply operation. Due to security concerns, the following methods are implemented in the process of transporting banknotes: (i) the capacity of a cash truck is limited by the total face value (instead of the physical space) of banknotes, and (ii) empty decoy trucks are deployed along with the trucks filled with banknotes. After deriving a polynomial‐time strategy to guarantee an optimal solution for the special Bin‐Packing Problem faced in this study, we provide an exact formulation for the RB's supply planning problem. We also propose several polynomial‐time algorithms for deriving either optimal or near‐optimal solutions for the problem under different settings. Using the weekly demand data obtained from the central bank, we verify the performance of our algorithms, and analyze the impacts of changes in these features and in the fleet capacity on the total cost incurred by an RB under various scenarios.
Mycelial growth rate and toxin production in the seed pathogen Pyrenophora semeniperda: resource trade‐offs and temporally varying selection
Authors: Meyer S. E. , Masi M. , Clement S. , Davis T. L. , Beckstead J.
Published: April 2015

Pyrenophora semeniperda, an important pathogen in Bromus tectorum seed banks in semi‐arid western North America, exhibits >4‐fold variation in mycelial growth rate. Host seeds exhibit seasonal changes in dormancy that affect the risk of pathogen‐caused mortality. The hypothesis tested is that contrasting seed dormancy phenotypes select for contrasting strategies for increasing pathogen fitness, and that increased fitness on nondormant seeds involves a resource trade‐off between toxin production and growth. The strategy for successfully attacking rapidly germinating nondormant seeds at high inoculum loads in autumn involves increased post‐infection aggressiveness to prevent seed escape through germination. An earlier study demonstrated that slow‐growing strains caused higher mortality than faster‐growing strains on nondormant host seeds at high inoculum loads. In this study, production of the toxin cytochalasin B was significantly higher in slower‐growing strains, and was induced only in seeds or in seed‐constituent‐containing media. Its production was reduced in vivo by Bromus tectorum seeds, suggesting direct involvement in pathogenesis on seeds. Fast‐growing strains caused significantly higher mortality than slow‐growing strains at low inoculum loads on dormant seeds, which apparently have resistance that is overcome at high loads or through rapid mycelial proliferation. In a co‐inoculation study, the fast‐growing isolate produced 3 × more stromata than the slow‐growing isolate on dormant seeds, whereas the slow‐growing isolate was twice as successful on nondormant seeds. These results provide evidence that mycelial growth rate variation and associated variation in cytochalasin B production represent a trade‐off maintained through temporally varying selection resulting from seasonal variation in host seed dormancy status.
Catheter‐directed Thrombolysis in Acute Superior Vena Cava Syndrome Caused by Central Venous Catheters
Authors: Cui Jie , Kawai Tasuo , Irani Zubin
Published: April 2015

Indwelling central venous catheters have been reported to increase the risk of superior venous cava (SVC) syndrome. This case report describes the development of acute SVC syndrome in a 28‐year‐old woman with end‐stage renal disease implanted with a left‐side hemodialysis reliable outflow graft and a right‐side double lumen hemodialysis catheter via internal jugular veins. Her symptoms were not alleviated after catheter removal and systemic anticoagulation therapy. She was eventually treated with catheter‐directed thrombolysis and a predischarge computer tomographic venogram on postthrombolytic procedure day 7 showed patent central veins and patient remained asymptomatic. This case demonstrates that catheter‐directed thrombolysis can be safely employed to treat refractory catheter‐induced acute SVC syndrome in end‐stage renal disease patients.
Fully Bayesian Binary Markov Random Field Models: Prior Specification and Posterior Simulation
Authors: Arnesen Petter , Tjelmeland Håkon
Published: April 2015

We propose a flexible prior model for the parameters of binary Markov random fields (MRF), defined on rectangular lattices and with maximal cliques defined from a template maximal clique. The prior model allows higher‐order interactions to be included. We also define a reversible jump Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm to sample from the associated posterior distribution. The number of possible parameters for a higher‐order MRF becomes high, even for small template maximal cliques. We define a flexible parametric form where the parameters have interpretation as potentials for clique configurations, and limit the effective number of parameters by assigning apriori discrete probabilities for events where groups of parameter values are equal. To cope with the computationally intractable normalising constant of MRFs, we adopt a previously defined approximation of binary MRFs. We demonstrate the flexibility of our prior formulation with simulated and real data examples.
Interactive Effects of Explicit Emergent Structure: A Major Challenge for Cognitive Computational Modeling
Authors: French Robert M. , Thomas Elizabeth
Published: April 2015

David Marr's (1982) three‐level analysis of computational cognition argues for three distinct levels of cognitive information processing—namely, the computational, representational, and implementational levels. But Marr's levels are—and were meant to be—descriptive, rather than interactive and dynamic. For this reason, we suggest that, had Marr been writing today, he might well have gone even farther in his analysis, including the emergence of structure—in particular, explicit structure at the conceptual level—from lower levels, and the effect of explicit emergent structures on the level (or levels) that gave rise to them. The message is that today's cognitive scientists need not only to understand how emergent structures—in particular, explicit emergent structures at the cognitive level—develop but also to understand how they feed back on the sub‐structures from which they emerged.
Characterisation of an unusual telomere motif (TTTTTTAGGG)n in the plant Cestrum elegans (Solanaceae), a species with a large genome
Authors: Peška Vratislav , Fajkus Petr , Fojtová Miloslava , Dvořáčková Martina , Hapala Jan , Dvořáček Vojtěch , Polanská Pavla , Leitch Andrew R. , Sýkorová Eva , Fajkus Jiří
Published: April 2015

The characterization of unusual telomere sequence sheds light on patterns of telomere evolution, maintenance and function. Plant species from the closely related genera Cestrum, Vestia and Sessea (family Solanaceae) lack known plant telomeric sequences. Here we characterize the telomere of Cestrum elegans, work that was a challenge because of its large genome size and few chromosomes (1C 9.76 pg; n = 8). We developed an approach that combines BAL31 digestion, which digests DNA from the ends and chromosome breaks, with next‐generation sequencing (NGS), to generate data analysed in RepeatExplorer, designed for de novo repeats identification and quantification. We identify an unique repeat motif (TTTTTTAGGG)n in C. elegans, occurring in ca. 30 400 copies per haploid genome, averaging ca. 1900 copies per telomere, and synthesized by telomerase. We demonstrate that the motif is synthesized by telomerase. The occurrence of an unusual eukaryote (TTTTTTAGGG)n telomeric motif in C. elegans represents a switch in motif from the ‘typical’ angiosperm telomere (TTTAGGG)n. That switch may have happened with the divergence of Cestrum, Sessea and Vestia. The shift in motif when it arose would have had profound effects on telomere activity. Thus our finding provides a unique handle to study how telomerase and telomeres responded to genetic change, studies that will shed more light on telomere function.
No evidence of transfusion transmission of Adenovirus and Epstein–Barr virus infections in paediatric recipients post–bone marrow transplant
Authors: Patel P. , Tuke P. , Tettmar K. , Cloutman‐Green E. , Hartley J. , Klein N. , Veys P. , Tedder R.S.
Published: April 2015

Adenovirus and Epstein–Barr virus can cause significant morbidity and mortality in paediatric patients post–bone marrow transplant. The source of infection is thought to be either reactivation of latent viruses or primary infection. We have investigated whether transfusion of blood components from viraemic donors could provide a route of primary infection in these patients and sought the prevalence of viraemia in the blood donor population from England. In 32 linked donor/recipient samples and 300 unselected blood donors, we found no evidence to suggest that these infections in paediatric bone marrow transplant recipients had been acquired from transfused blood components.
Second-Order Sliding Mode Control of a Perturbed-Crane
Authors: Vázquez Carlos , Fridman Leonid , Collado Joaquin , Castillo Ismael
Published: April 2015

A five degrees-of-freedom overhead crane system affected by external perturbations is the topic of study. Existing methods just handle the unperturbed case or, in addition, the analysis is limited to three or two degrees-of-freedom. A wide range of processes cannot be restricted to these scenarios and this paper goes a step forward proposing a control solution for a five degrees-of-freedom system under the presence of matched and unmatched disturbances. The contribution includes a model description and a second-order sliding mode (SOSM) control design ensuring the precise trajectory tracking for the actuated variables and at the same time the regulation of the unactuated variables. Furthermore, the proposed approach is supported by the design of strong Lyapunov functions providing an estimation of the convergence time. Simulations and experiments, including a comparison with a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller, verified the advantages of the methodology.
Thruster and Hull Interaction
Authors: Tian Ye , Kinnas Spyros A.
Published: April 2015

A hybrid method which couples a vortex-lattice method (VLM) solver and a Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) solver is applied to simulate the interaction between a dynamic positioning (DP) thruster and a floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) hull. The hybrid method can significantly reduce the number of cells to fifth of that in a full-blown RANS simulation and thus greatly enhance the computational efficiency. The numerical results are first validated with available experimental data, and then used to assess the significance of the thruster/hull interaction in DP systems.
Aerodynamics of Centrifugal Turbine Cascades
Authors: Persico Giacomo , Pini Matteo , Dossena Vincenzo , Gaetani Paolo
Published: April 2015

The centrifugal turbine architecture is a promising solution for small-to-medium organic Rankine cycle (ORC) power systems. The inherent compactness of the multistage arrangement makes this configuration very attractive for dealing with the high volumetric flow ratios typical of ORC turbines. In absence of experimental evidence, a thorough assessment of the technology can be uniquely based on sufficiently accurate computational fluid dynamic (CFD) simulations. In the present work, the aerodynamic performance of a fixed and a rotating cascade of centrifugal turbine are investigated by applying a three-dimensional CFD model. Precisely, the study is focused on the sixth stage of the transonic centrifugal turbine proposed in Pini et al. (2013, “Preliminary Design of a Centrifugal Turbine for ORC Applications,” ASME J. Eng. Gas Turbines Power, 135(4), p. 042312). After recalling the blade design methodology, the blade-to-blade and secondary flow patterns are carefully studied for both stator and rotor. Results show that the centrifugal configuration exhibits distinctive features if compared to axial turbine layouts. The diverging shape of the bladed channel and the centrifugal force alter significantly the pressure distribution on the profile. Moreover, the Coriolis force induces a slip effect that should be properly included in the preliminary design phase. Provided that the flaring angle is limited, the almost uniform spanwise blade loading greatly augments the three-dimensional performance of the cascades compared to axial rows. In the rotor, the low inlet endwall vorticity and the Coriolis force further weaken the secondary flows, resulting in even lower secondary losses with respect to those predicted by loss models developed for axial turbines. Ultimately, the efficiency of the stage is found to be two points higher than that estimated at preliminary design level, demonstrating the high potential of the centrifugal turbine for ORC applications.
Active Vibration Control of the Flexible Rotor to Pass the First Bending Critical Speed in High Energy Density Magnetically Suspended Motor
Authors: Tang Enqiong , Fang Jiancheng , Zheng Shiqiang , Jiang Dikai
Published: April 2015

In order to minimizing the rotor displacement and the amplifier current mainly caused by the unbalance forces when the flexible rotor passes the first bending critical speed, the optimal controller is presented in this paper. The accurate modeling method for the flexible rotor based on the sine sweeping measurements is investigated. The design of the Kalman estimator and the choice of the variance matrix elements have been described. The optimal state feedback regulator with an integral controller has been used for stabilizing the system and the determination of the weight matrices has been investigated in detail. The influences of the specific elements of the weight matrices on the resonance peak of the flexible rotor when passing the first bending critical speed are analyzed. Finally, the running up test of the flexible rotor is implemented and the result shows the effectiveness of linear quadratic Gaussian (LQG) controller minimizing the rotor displacement and the amplifier current nearby the first bending critical speed. Furthermore, the comparison between the proportional-integral-differential (PID) controller with phase lead compensator and the LQG controller verifies the superiority of LQG controller in reducing the amplifier currents.