bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous detection and differentiation of Rice black streaked dwarf virus (RBSDV) and Southern rice black streaked dwarf virus (SRBSDV) by duplex real time RT-PCR
Authors: Zhang Peng , Mar Thi Thi , Liu Wenwen , Li Li , Wang Xifeng 
Published: January 2013

Abstract

Background
The diseases caused by Rice black streaked dwarf virus (RBSDV) and Southern rice black streaked dwarf virus (SRBSDV) have been occurring epidemically in China and southeastern Asia in recent years. A sensitive, reliable and quantitative method is required to detect and distinguish for RBSDV and SRBSDV in rice and vector insects.

Results
We developed a sensitive and lineage-specific duplex real time RT-qPCR for detection of RBSDV and SRBSDV in a single or/and double infection in rice samples. The duplex RT-qPCR was optimized using standard samples transcribed by T7 Large Scale RNA Production System in vitro. We developed a reliable system for duplex RT-qPCR, in which its co-efficiency of RBSDV and SRBSDV, were 91.6% and 90.7%, respectively. The coefficient of determination was more than 0.990; the slope of linear equation was −3.542, and −3.567, respectively. Out of 30 samples collected in North and Central China, which were suspected to be infected with these two viruses, 10 samples were detected RBSDV positive by RT-PCR and 12 samples by RT-qPCR. No mixed infections were found. Simultaneously, out of total 60 samples collected from Southern China, which were also suspected to be infected with these two viruses, 41 samples were determined SRBSDV positive by RT-PCR and 47 samples by RT-qPCR. Also in this case no mixed infections were found. The rice genes eEF-1a and UBQ5 were selected as internal controls for quantification assay also performed as good expression stability.

Conclusion
The duplex RT-qPCR assay provided as a sufficiently sensitive, specific, accurate, reproducible and rapid tool for the detection and differentiation of RBSDV and SRBSDV. The RT-qPCR assay can be used in routine diagnostic of these two viruses in order to study the disease epidemiology in rice crops.
Hepatitis B surface antigen prevalence among 12 393 rural women of childbearing age in Hainan Province, China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhang Yu , Fang Weiming , Fan Lichun , Gao Xiaohui , Guo Yan , Huang Wenming , Du Yukai 
Published: January 2013

AbstractBackgroundHepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is highly endemic in China and it threats human health seriously. The hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) prevalence among women of childbearing age plays an important role in mother to child transmission of HBV, as 30% ~50% of chronic carriers can be attributed to maternal-infantile transmission. However, there are few studies which have reported on the prevalence of HBsAg among women of childbearing age in China. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of HBsAg and its associated risk factors among rural women of childbearing age in Hainan, which is the highest hepatitis B virus endemic province in China.MethodsA cross-sectional, population-based study, which included 12393 rural women aged 15 ~ 49 years, enrolled by a multistage stratified cluster sampling, was carried out in Hainan province, China, from November 2007 to December 2008. Blood samples were obtained from each study participant, and screened for HBsAg.ResultsThe overall HBsAg prevalence of childbearing age women was 9.51%. Risk factors for HBsAg positivity among rural women were: lower education level (OR=1.206), lower family monthly income (OR=1.233), having an HBsAg-positive family member (OR=1.300), without an immunization history (OR=1.243), tattooing (OR=1.190), body piercing (OR=1.293), vaginoscopy history (OR=1.103) and history of induced abortion (OR=1.142).ConclusionsThere is a high HBsAg seroprevalence rate among rural women of childbearing age in Hainan province. Hence, it is necessary to take preventive measures to reduce the seroprevalence of HBsAg and to control its associated risk factors.
Mobile Device for Disease Diagnosis and Data Tracking in Resource-Limited Settings
Authors: Chin Curtis D , Cheung Yuk Kee , Laksanasopin Tassaneewan , Modena Mario M , Chin Sau Yin , Sridhara Archana A , Steinmiller David , Linder Vincent , Mushingantahe Jules , Umviligihozo Gisele , Karita Etienne , Mwambarangwe Lambert , Braunstein Sarah L , van de Wijgert Janneke , Sahabo Ruben , Justman Jessica E , El-Sadr Wafaa , Sia Samuel K 
Published: January 2013

BACKGROUND
Collection of epidemiological data and care of patients are hampered by lack of access to laboratory diagnostic equipment and patients' health records in resource-limited settings. We engineered a low-cost mobile device that combines cell-phone and satellite communication technologies with fluid miniaturization techniques for performing all essential ELISA functions.

METHODS
We assessed the device's ability to perform HIV serodiagnostic testing in Rwanda and synchronize results in real time with electronic health records. We tested serum, plasma, and whole blood samples collected in Rwanda and on a commercially available sample panel made of mixed antibody titers.

RESULTS
HIV testing on 167 Rwandan patients evaluated for HIV, viral hepatitis, and sexually transmitted infections yielded diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of 100% and 99%, respectively. Testing on 40 Rwandan whole-blood samples—using 1 μL of sample per patient—resulted in diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of 100% and 100%. The mobile device also successfully transmitted all whole-blood test results from a Rwandan clinic to a medical records database stored on the cloud. For all samples in the commercial panel, the device produced results in agreement with a leading ELISA test, including detection of weakly positive samples that were missed by existing rapid tests. The device operated autonomously with minimal user input, produced each result 10 times faster than benchtop ELISA, and consumed as little power as a mobile phone.

CONCLUSIONS
A low-cost mobile device can perform a blood-based HIV serodiagnostic test with laboratory-level accuracy and real-time synchronization of patient health record data.
A class of degenerate elliptic eigenvalue problems
Authors: Lucia Marcello , Schuricht Friedemann 
Published: January 2013

Abstract.
We consider a general class of eigenvalue problems where the leading elliptic term corresponds to a convex homogeneous energy function that is not necessarily differentiable. We derive a strong maximum principle and show uniqueness of the first eigenfunction. Moreover we prove the existence of a sequence of eigensolutions by using a critical point theory in metric spaces. Our results extend the eigenvalue problem of the p-Laplace operator to a much more general setting.
Do laboratories follow heart failure recommendations and guidelines and did we improve? The CARdiac MArker Guideline Uptake in Europe (CARMAGUE)
Authors: Hammerer-Lercher Angelika , Collinson Paul , van Dieijen-Visser Marja P. , Pulkki Kari , Suvisaari Janne , Ravkilde Jan , Stavljenic-Rukavina Ana , Baum Hannsjörg , Laitinen Päivi 
Published: January 2013

AbstractBackground:Natriuretic peptides (NP) are well-established markers of heart failure (HF). During the past 5 years, analytical and clinical recommendations for measurement of these biomarkers have been published in guidelines. The aim of this follow-up survey was to investigate how well these guidelines for measurement of NP have been implemented in laboratory practice in Europe.Methods:Member societies of the European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine were invited in 2009 to participate in a web-based audit questionnaire. The questionnaire requested information on type of tests performed, decision limits for HF, turn-around time and frequency of testing.Results:There was a moderate increase (12%) of laboratories measuring NP compared to the initial survey in 2006. The most frequently used HF decision limits for B-type NP (BNP) and N-terminal BNP (NT-proBNP) were, respectively, 100 ng/L and 125 ng/L, derived from the package inserts in 55%. Fifty laboratories used a second decision limit. Age or gender dependent decision limits were applied in 10% (8.5% in 2006). The vast majority of laboratories (80%) did not have any criteria regarding frequency of testing, compared to 33% in 2006.Conclusions:The implementation of NP measurement for HF management was a slow process between 2006 and 2009 at a time when guidelines had just been established. The decision limits were derived from package insert information and literature. There was great uncertainty concerning frequency of testing which may reflect the debate about the biological variability which was not published for most of the assays in 2009.
Novel benzofuran derivatives: synthesis and antitumor activity
Authors: Othman Dina I. , Abdelal Ali M.M. , El-Sayed Magda A. , El Bialy Serry A. A. 
Published: January 2013

Abstract
A series of new benzofuran derivatives 3a–f, 5a–e containing a heterocyclic substituent linked to benzofuran nucleus at C-2 were synthesized as potential antitumor agents. These products were synthesized starting with 2-bromoacetylbenzofuran 1. The structures of all compounds were established on the basis of analytical and spectral data. The synthesized compounds were tested against human liver carcinoma cell line (HEPG2) and all were more potent than the comparative standard (5-flurouracil). Compound 3f was the most active (IC50 = 12.4 μg/mL).
The relationship between phonological awareness time and reading abilities: an assessment using self-organizing maps
Authors: Sucena Ana , Carneiro João Falcão , Vale Ana Paula , Viana Fernanda Leopoldina 
Published: January 2013

AbstractClassically, the assessment of reading disabilities is based on the accuracy for word and nonword reading, as well as on the accuracy or sensibility measures (such as d′) for phonological awareness tasks. Recent studies indicate that in terms of phonological awareness results, the response time is a more accurate indicator than sensibility measures (such as d′), thus providing an important measure explaining some of the differences between good and poor readers. This article explores the discriminative capability of phonological awareness task time (PATT) in reading disability assessment.One hundred and eighty-six children were tested using conventional tasks, specifically word reading, nonword reading, and phonological awareness tasks. The word and nonword accuracy and PATT were used to train self-organizing maps (SOM) to classify children into three distinct groups.Phonological awareness response time provides a powerful discriminative measure.Our results indicate that the PATT constitutes a useful selective measure, particularly in the third and fourth grades when classical variables such as word and nonword reading accuracy lose their discriminative capabilities. Also, the use of SOM to classify children’s reading abilities can successfully categorize children and capture meaningful measures such as the lexicality effect.
Comparative study on the efficacy of electromyography and galvanic skin resistance biofeedback in tension type headache: a single blinded randomized controlled trial
Authors: Bembalgi Veena , Naik Karkal Ravishankar 
Published: January 2013

AbstractTension type headache is the most widespread and most common primary headache disorder accounting for nearly 90% of all headaches. Efficacy of electromyography biofeedback in patients with tension type headache has been proven but efficacy of galvanic skin resistance biofeedback has not been studied adequately. The aim of the present study was to compare the efficacy of electromyography biofeedback and galvanic skin resistance biofeedback in patients with tension type headache.We performed a randomized single blinded controlled study. Out of 116 recruited subjects, 91 (59 females and 32 males) were randomly assigned to three groups receiving electromyography biofeedback (n=30), galvanic skin resistance biofeedback (n=30), and a control group (n=31). Each subject (except the control group) received 15 biofeedback sessions for 30 min each in an isolated room. The control group received only medication prescribed by their physician. Each patient was blinded to the type of biofeedback being given. Pain variables, SF-36 quality of life scores, and analgesic usage were recorded at baseline, 1 month, 6 months, and 1 year after therapy.There was a significant difference in frequency and duration of headache in electromyography and galvanic skin resistance groups (p<0.01), whereas the control group showed significant differences in intensity (p=0.05) and duration (p<0.001). Significant improvement was seen only in total SF-36 scores after 1 year in the electromyography and control groups (p=0.03 and p=0.00, respectively). A significant drop in analgesic usage was seen in all groups at 1 year (p<0.001).Electromyography and galvanic skin resistance biofeedback are effective in the treatment of tension type headache, with electromyography biofeedback being more effective than galvanic skin resistance biofeedback.
Photoacoustic microscopy imaging – From a single erythrocyte to a vascular network/Bildgebung mittels photoakustischer Mikroskopie – Vom einzelnen Erythrozyt zum Gefäßnetz
Authors: Yuan Yi , Chen Zhongjiang , Yang Sihua , Xing Da 
Published: January 2013

AbstractA label-free angiography photoacoustic microscopy system is proposed which was produced by the integration of a two-dimensional scanning galvanometer, an objective lens, a focused ultrasound transducer, a water container and a sample supporter. Using this system,
Microscopic fracture mechanisms of octavinyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane-containing hybrid nanocomposite materials
Authors: Jiang Ming , Li Hairong , Xiong Chuanxi 
Published: January 2013

Abstract
A hybrid nanocomposite material based on polystyrene-octavinyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (PS-OV-POSS) system has been developed for safety applications requiring minimum impact resistance as well as acceptable tensile and flexural properties. The low impact resistance and sufficient tensile and flexural properties could be achieved simultaneously. The microscopic fracture mechanisms of the hybrid nanocomposite material were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). The desired frangibility can be achieved at an exceedingly low OV-POSS level owing to the multifunctionality of OV-POSS and its rigid cubic structure. This could permit the realization of simple, low-cost low impact resistant structures without complex structure design. The material is easy to dispose by means of mechanical process due to its inherent frangible character and light weight.
Frequency optimization of laminated annular circular plates
Authors: Topal Umut 
Published: January 2013

Abstract
This paper deals with frequency optimization of symmetrically laminated angle-ply annular circular plates. The design objective is the maximization of the fundamental frequency, and the design variable is the fiber orientation in the layers. The first-order shear deformation theory and nine-node isoparametric finite element model in polar coordinates are used in finding the natural frequencies. The modified feasible direction (MFD) method is used for the optimization routine. For this purpose, a program based on FORTRAN is used. Finally, the numerical analysis is carried out to investigate the effects of radius ratios, boundary conditions, and uniform external or internal pressure loads on the optimal designs, and the results are shown in tabular and graphical forms.
Successful Grafting in a Patient With Recalcitrant Pemphigus: A Case Report
Authors: Stiefel Daniel B. , Saavedra Arturo , Elliott Jennifer A. , Reich Peter 
Published: January 2013

Introduction: This article reports the successful management of a gingival graft in a patient with both oral manifestations of chronic systemic disease and oral sequelae of chemotherapy. In addition to proper clinical technique, a case such as this requires clear communication among health care providers and a sustained program of symptom‐specific oral hygiene.Case Presentation: A patient with pemphigus vulgaris (PV) who was in remission after 7 years of treatment presented with a periodontal abscess. Concerned that a fatal infection could originate from the tooth in this immunocompromised patient, the treating physician referred the patient to a periodontist for a gingival graft. Throughout, candid communication among periodontist, physician, and patient produced improvements in an already deliberate approach to oral hygiene. In the presence of persistent chronic disease and associated oral inflammation, a patient‐specific oral‐hygiene regimen including non‐traditional methods can contribute to a successful outcome.Conclusions: This successful procedure demonstrates that a history of PV is not a contraindication to periodontal surgery, such as grafting, as long as prophylactic immunosuppression, assiduous oral hygiene, and close clinical follow‐up are performed. A gingival graft is a viable procedure in patients with PV and can be another tool in the toolkit of treatments for mucocutaneous disorders.
Minimally Invasive Implant Surgery and Immediate Loading: Surgical and Prosthetic Techniques
Authors: Baumgarten Harold S. , Othman Badr 
Published: January 2013

Introduction: Computerized tomography (CT)–guided implant surgery has been used to perform minimally invasive implant placement. In many cases, the procedure may be performed along with immediate restoration. Inaccuracies related to the CT scan itself and the surgical technique often result in implant positions which are slightly different from those that were planned. If immediate restoration and/or loading is desired, a prosthetic technique must be used that can easily account for this discrepancy.Case Presentation: A 43‐year‐old male patient with a completely edentulous maxilla and mandible presented to the Periodontics Clinic at the University of Pennsylvania. Implants were placed in both the maxilla and mandible using a minimally invasive CT‐guided approach. The dentures that were fabricated for him were converted into fixed hybrid restorations at the time of surgery using two different techniques that took into account any discrepancy between the surgical plan and the actual placement.Conclusions: With meticulous planning and appropriate prosthetic technique, CT‐guided surgery can be used to perform minimally invasive implant surgery and immediate restoration of edentulous jaws. This approach can provide lower morbidity along with a more accurate, fast, and convenient result for the patient.
Current Advances in the Use of Lasers in Periodontal Therapy: A Laser‐Assisted New Attachment Procedure Case Series
Authors: Brown I. Stephen 
Published: January 2013

Introduction: The focus of periodontal surgical procedures has shifted over the past three decades from a philosophy based on resection (subtractive) to one of regeneration of lost tissues (additive). This shift has had particular significance in cases of advanced periodontitis. When a patient presents with severe attachment loss, regeneration cannot take place until the etiologic factors have been effectively managed or reversed and the disease progression arrested. Traditional surgical techniques have been successful in facilitating access and addressing the goal of “pocket elimination.” However, such surgical methods often result in unpleasant side effects, which can be painful and disfiguring. Clinicians have come to accept previous tissue breakdown as often irreversible. Additionally, the theory behind conventional pocket elimination was to produce an environment that promoted ongoing disease control by facilitating personal oral hygiene. At its best, traditional pocket surgery often falls short of achieving these goals and objectives. Additionally, conventional resective surgical techniques do not adequately address esthetic concerns, whereas surgical techniques, which are directed toward regeneration, have as their ideal outcome the preservation and/or restoration of lost periodontal tissues.Case Series: This case series presents six clinical cases illustrating favorable results using laser‐assisted new attachment procedure. In all cases, mobility and other manifestations of occlusal pathology were assessed. Occlusion was carefully addressed and managed using a combination of procedures.Conclusions: The results of recent research on a specific free‐running, pulsed neodymium‐doped:yttrium–aluminum–garnet (Nd:YAG) laser suggest that this laser provides a viable alternative to traditional periodontal surgery. Properly applying the laser has been shown to produce less bleeding, swelling, and discomfort. The Nd:YAG laser appears to address the cause of periodontal disease rather than the effects by specifically targeting identifiable periodontal pathogens. Regeneration of periodontal tissues is the gold standard by which dentists measure treatment effectiveness. Evidence has emerged that the Nd:YAG laser provides an enhanced method for achieving this elusive goal while eliminating many of the negative sequelae, which have been historically associated with conventional pocket elimination surgery. It should be noted that the information in the paper does not refer to all Nd:YAG lasers, but to one specific type of Nd:YAG laser. There are specific differences between individual YAG lasers, and this one is unique.
Factors Affecting Treatment Decisions and Outcomes of Root‐Resected Molars: A Nationwide Study
Authors: Yuh Da‐Yo , Cheng Guo‐Liang , Chien Wu‐Chien , Chung Chi‐Hsiang , Lin Fu‐Gong , Shieh Yi‐Shing , Fang Wen‐Hui , Mau Lian‐Ping , Fu Earl , Huang Ren‐Yeong 
Published: January 2013

Background: Treatment of furcation‐involved molars presents a clinical challenge. This study retrospectively investigates the demographic parameters affecting treatment decisions and outcomes of root‐resected molars using a nationwide population‐based dataset.Methods: De‐identified data from 471 eligible patients were obtained from a representative cohort composed of 1 million of Taiwan's population. Demographic factors that influence treatment decisions and outcomes of root‐resected teeth were examined. Cox regression was performed to statistically analyze the factors.Results: The overall survival rate for root‐resected molars was 91.1%. The survival times of the extracted and surviving teeth were 303.0 ± 274.6 and 551.8 ± 327.2 days, respectively (P <0.001). The analyzed patient‐related factors, such as living district, urbanization level, medical institution, and monthly income, have remarkable influence on treatment decisions; however, there is no statistically significant difference in survival rate between root‐resected molars receiving flap surgery and those that do not (P = 0.504). After adjusting for other factors, patients aged >74 years have 3.33 times (hazard ratio = 3.33; 95% CI = 1.04 to 10.66; P = 0.043) higher rates of molar extraction than younger counterparts.Conclusions: The overall survival rate of root‐resected molars was satisfactory. Patients with advanced age (>74 years) had a higher risk of extraction occurrence on resected molars. Patient‐related factors may influence the treatment decision of whether molars receive flap surgery. These findings suggest that demographic factors should be carefully evaluated before and after performing root‐resection procedures because these factors may eventually impact the outcome of root‐resected molars.