bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of 5‐Hz rTMS over the primary sensory cortex is related to white matter volume in individuals with chronic stroke
Authors: Brodie Sonia M. , Borich Michael R. , Boyd Lara A. 
Published: September 2014

AbstractRepetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non‐invasive brain stimulation technique that may facilitate mechanisms of motor learning. In a recent single‐blind, pseudo‐randomized study, we showed that 5‐Hz rTMS over ipsilesional primary somatosensory cortex followed by practice of a skilled motor task enhanced motor learning compared with sham rTMS + practice in individuals with chronic stroke. However, the beneficial effect of stimulation was inconsistent. The current study examined how differences in sensorimotor cortex morphology might predict rTMS‐related improvements in motor learning in these individuals. High‐resolution T1‐weighted magnetic resonance images were acquired and processed in FreeSurfer using a newly developed automated, whole brain parcellation technique. Gray matter and white matter volumes of the ipsilesional primary somatosensory and motor cortices were extracted. A significant positive association was observed between the volume of white matter in the primary somatosensory cortex and motor learning‐related change, exclusively in the group that received active 5‐Hz rTMS. A regression model with age, gray matter and white matter volumes as predictors was significant for predicting motor learning‐related change in individuals who received active TMS. White matter volume predicted the greatest amount of variance (47.6%). The same model was non‐significant when volumes of the primary motor cortex were considered. We conclude that white matter volume in the cortex underlying the TMS coil may be a novel predictor for behavioral response to 5‐Hz rTMS over the ipsilesional primary somatosensory followed by motor practice.
Performance evaluation of a dynamic telepathology system (Panoptiq™) in the morphologic assessment of peripheral blood film abnormalities
Authors: Goswami R. , Pi D. , Pal J. , Cheng K. , Hudoba De Badyn M. 
Published: September 2014

SummaryIntroductionThe study evaluated the performance of a dynamic imaging telepathology system (Panoptiq™) as a diagnostic aid to the identification of peripheral blood film (PBF) abnormalities.MethodsThe study assumed a laboratory personnel working in a clinical laboratory were operating the telepathology system to seek diagnostic opinion from an external consulting hematopathologist. The study examined 100 blood films, encompassing 23 different hematological diseases, reactive or normal cases.ResultsThe study revealed that with real‐time image transmission in live scanning mode of operation, the telepathology system was able to aid reviewers in achieving excellent accuracy, that is correct interpretation of morphologic abnormalities obtained in 83/84 of the hematologic diseases and 12/12 of the reactive/normal conditions (Sensitivity: 0.99; Specificity: 1.00). In contrast, when only saved static images in digital capture mode of operation were reviewed remotely, interpretative omissions occurred in 8/84 of the hematologic diseases and 0/12 of the reactive/normal conditions (Sensitivity: 0.91; Specificity: 1.00). It is hypothesized that real‐time operator‐reviewer communication during live scanning played an important role in the identification of key morphologic abnormalities for review.ConclusionOur study showed the Panoptiq system can be adopted reliably as a dynamic telepathology tool in aiding community laboratories in the triage of PBF cases for external diagnostic consultation.
How do hosts react to endosymbionts? A new insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying the Wolbachia–host association
Authors: Zhang Y.‐K. , Ding X.‐L. , Rong X. , Hong X.‐Y. 
Published: September 2014

AbstractWolbachia is an intracellular bacterium that has aroused intense interest because of its ability to alter the biology of its host in diverse ways. In the two‐spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae, Wolbachia can induce complex cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI) phenotypes and fitness changes, although little is known about the mechanisms. In the present study, we selected a strain of T. urticae, in which Wolbachia infection was associated with strong CI and enhanced female fecundity, to investigate changes in the transcriptome of T. urticae in Wolbachia‐infected vs. uninfected lines. The responses were found to be sex‐specific, with the transcription of 251 genes being affected in females and 171 genes being affected in males. Some of the more profoundly affected genes in both sexes were lipocalin genes and genes involved in oxidation reduction, digestion and detoxification. Several of the differentially expressed genes have potential roles in reproduction. Interestingly, unlike certain Wolbachia transinfections in novel hosts, the Wolbachia–host association in the present study showed no clear evidence of host immune priming by Wolbachia, although a few potential immune genes were affected.
20‐hydroxyecdysone transcriptionally regulates humoral immunity in the fat body ofHelicoverpa armigera
Authors: Wang J‐L. , Chen L. , Tang L. , Zhao H‐B. , Liu X‐S. , Wang Y‐F. 
Published: September 2014

Abstract20‐hydroxyecdysone (20E) increases its titre level during the wandering stage and influences innate immunity in many holometabolous insects. However, the function of20Eas an immune‐activator or ‐suppressor needs to be determined. Here, the transcriptome of the peptidoglycan‐challenged fat body of the cotton bollworm,Helicoverpa armigera, was analysed usingIllumina sequencing technology. Overall, 32 073 unigenes were assembled with a mean length of 643 nucleotides. Gene expression dynamics in the fat body during the wandering stage and of peptidoglycan‐challenged individuals were investigated by the digital gene expression system. Pattern recognition receptors [such aspeptidoglycan recognition protein B(PGRP B),PGRP S2 precursor,C‐type lectin 5,hemolinandβ‐1,3‐glucan recognition protein 2a] and antimicrobial peptides (namelyattacin,gloverin,gloverin precursor,gloverin‐like,cecropin 2,cecropinD,cecropin D‐likeandi‐type lysozyme) significantly increased theirmRNAlevels during the wandering stage.20Etreatment significantly induced the expression of these genes. Antibacterial activities were also enhanced during the wandering stage and after20Einjections.Bacillus subtilispeptidoglycan induced the expression ofPGRPD,PGRP B,PGRP S2 precursor,gloverin,gloverin precursor,gloverin‐like,cecropin 2,cecropinDandlebocin‐likegenes. These results demonstrate that20Eacts by enhancing humoral immunity inH. armigera.
Wound healing activity of methanolic stem extract of Musa paradisiaca Linn. (Banana) in Wistar albino rats
Authors: Amutha Kuppusamy , Selvakumari Ulagesan 
Published: September 2014

AbstractThis study is designed to explore the phytochemical, antibacterial and wound healing activity of methanolic stem extract of Musa paradisiaca Linn. (Banana). The phytochemical analysis was performed for the methanolic stem extract of Musa paradisiaca Linn. Results indicates that the Musa paradisiaca Linn. was rich in glucosides, tannins and alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids and phenols were present in moderate quantities. The extract shows antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus with the zone of inhibition of Pseudomonas aeruginosa was 21 mm and Staphylococcus aureus was 19 mm at concentration of 500 µg/disc. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was also evaluated for the extract. Wistar albino rats were selected for wound healing activity. The burn wound was created by using red hot steel rod from above the hind limb region. The methanolic extract was applied on the wound and the progressive changes were monitored every day. The wound contraction rate was absorbed based on the histopathological examination. It was concluded that the methanolic extract of Musa paradisiaca Linn. showed greater healing activity compared to control in Wistar albino rats.
Evaluation of Autism‐Related Health Information on the Web
Authors: Grant Nicole , Rodger Sylvia , Hoffmann Tammy 
Published: September 2014

BackgroundThe Internet is a frequently accessed source of information for parents of a child with autism. To help parents make informed decisions about treatment options, websites should contain accurate information. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of information in a sample of autism‐relevant websites.Materials and MethodsAutism‐related keywords were entered into three widely used search engines in April 2013 and the 20 most frequently appearing sites identified. Website quality was rated, by two independent raters, using the DISCERN tool. Websites were also coded according to the type of references/sources provided to support the intervention content presented.ResultsThe mean DISCERN score was 46.5 (range 23–67.5), of a possible 80. Information about treatment risks and no treatment as an option was rarely described. Only six (30%) websites provided research references when describing intervention options.ConclusionsMany websites did not meet criteria for quality health information and failed to cite evidence supporting described interventions. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Liver steatosis is associated with insulin resistance in skeletal muscle rather than in the liver in Japanese patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Kato Ken‐ichiro , Takeshita Yumie , Misu Hirofumi , Zen Yoh , Kaneko Shuichi , Takamura Toshinari 
Published: September 2014

AbstractAims/IntroductionTo examine the association between liver histological features and organ‐specific insulin resistance indices calculated from 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test data in patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease.Materials and MethodsLiver biopsy specimens were obtained from 72 patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease, and were scored for steatosis, grade and stage. Hepatic and skeletal muscle insulin resistance indices (hepatic insulin resistance index and Matsuda index, respectively) were calculated from 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test data, and metabolic clearance rate was measured using the euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp method.ResultsThe degree of hepatic steatosis, and grade and stage of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis were significantly correlated with Matsuda index (steatosis r = −0.45, P < 0.001; grade r = −0.54, P < 0.001; stage r = −0.37, P < 0.01), but not with hepatic insulin resistance index. Multiple regression analyses adjusted for age, sex, body mass index and each histological score showed that the degree of hepatic steatosis (coefficient = −0.22, P < 0.05) and grade (coefficient = −0.40, P < 0.01) were associated with Matsuda index, whereas the association between stage and Matsuda index (coefficient = −0.07, P = 0.593) was no longer significant. A similar trend was observed for the association between steatosis and metabolic clearance rate (coefficient = −0.62, P = 0.059).ConclusionsLiver steatosis is associated with insulin resistance in skeletal muscle rather than in the liver in patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease, suggesting a central role of fatty liver in the development of peripheral insulin resistance and the existence of a network between the liver and skeletal muscle.
Condenser‐free contrast methods for transmitted‐light microscopy
Authors: WEBB K. F. 
Published: September 2014

SummaryPhase contrast microscopy allows the study of highly transparent yet detail‐rich specimens by producing intensity contrast from phase objects within the sample. Presented here is a generalized phase contrast illumination schema in which condenser optics are entirely abrogated, yielding a condenser‐free yet highly effective method of obtaining phase contrast in transmitted‐light microscopy. A ring of light emitting diodes (LEDs) is positioned within the light‐path such that observation of the objective back focal plane places the illuminating ring in appropriate conjunction with the phase ring. It is demonstrated that true Zernike phase contrast is obtained, whose geometry can be flexibly manipulated to provide an arbitrary working distance between illuminator and sample. Condenser‐free phase contrast is demonstrated across a range of magnifications (4–100×), numerical apertures (0.13–1.65NA) and conventional phase positions. Also demonstrated is condenser‐free darkfield microscopy as well as combinatorial contrast including Rheinberg illumination and simultaneous, colour‐contrasted, brightfield, darkfield and Zernike phase contrast. By providing enhanced and arbitrary working space above the preparation, a range of concurrent imaging and electrophysiological techniques will be technically facilitated. Condenser‐free phase contrast is demonstrated in conjunction with scanning ion conductance microscopy (SICM), using a notched ring to admit the scanned probe. The compact, versatile LED illumination schema will further lend itself to novel next‐generation transmitted‐light microscopy designs. The condenser‐free illumination method, using rings of independent or radially‐scanned emitters, may be exploited in future in other electromagnetic wavebands, including X‐rays or the infrared.
Do Some People Need Autonomy More Than Others? Implicit Dispositions Toward Autonomy Moderate the Effects of Felt Autonomy on Well‐Being
Authors: Schüler Julia , Sheldon Kennon M. , Prentice Mike , Halusic Marc 
Published: September 2014

AbstractThe present studies examined whether implicit or explicit autonomy dispositions moderate the relationship between felt autonomy and well‐being. Study 1 (N = 187 undergraduate students) presents an initial test of the moderator hypothesis by predicting flow experience from the interaction of autonomy need satisfaction and autonomy dispositions. Study 2 (N = 127 physically inactive persons) used vignettes involving an autonomy (un)supportive coach to test a moderated mediation model in which perceived coach autonomy support leads to well‐being through basic need satisfaction. Again, the effects of need satisfaction on well‐being were hypothesized to be moderated by an implicit autonomy disposition. Study 1 showed that individuals with a strong implicit autonomy (but not power or achievement) motive disposition derived more flow experience from felt autonomy than individuals with a weak implicit autonomy disposition. Study 2 revealed that perceived autonomy support from sports coaches, which we experimentally induced with a vignette method, leads to autonomy satisfaction, leading in turn to positive effects on well‐being. This indirect effect held at high and average but not low implicit autonomy disposition. The results indicate that the degree to which people benefit from autonomy need satisfaction depends on their implicit disposition toward autonomy.
On the adaptive value of cytoplasmic genomes in plants
Authors: Bock Dan G. , Andrew Rose L. , Rieseberg Loren H. 
Published: September 2014

AbstractIs DNA variation maintained in organelle genomes selectively neutral? The answer to this question has important implications for many aspects of ecology and evolution. While traditionally the answer has been ‘yes’, recent studies in animals have shown that, on the contrary, mitochondrial DNA polymorphism is frequently adaptive. In plants, however, the neutrality assumption has not been strongly challenged. Here, we begin with a critical evaluation of arguments in favour of this long‐held view. We then discuss the latest empirical evidence for the opposing prediction that sequence variation in plant cytoplasmic genomes is frequently adaptive. While outstanding research progress is being made towards understanding this fundamental topic, we highlight the need for studies that combine information ranging from field experiments to physiology to molecular evolutionary biology. Such an interdisciplinary approach provides a means for determining the frequency, drivers and evolutionary significance of adaptive organelle DNA variation.
Characterization of Pseudomonas aeruginosa LpxT reveals dual positional lipid A kinase activity and co‐ordinated control of outer membrane modification
Authors: Nowicki Emily M. , O'Brien John P. , Brodbelt Jennifer S. , Trent M. Stephen 
Published: September 2014

SummaryGram‐negative bacteria have evolved modification machinery to promote a dynamic outer membrane in response to a continually fluctuating environment. The kinase LpxT, for example, adds a phosphate group to the lipid A moiety of some Gram‐negatives including Escherichia coli and Salmonella enterica. LpxT activity is inhibited under conditions that compromise membrane integrity, resulting instead in the addition of positively charged groups to lipid A that increase membrane stability and provide resistance to cationic antimicrobial peptides. We have now identified a functional lpxT orthologue in P. aeruginosa. LpxTPa has unique enzymatic characteristics, as it is able to phosphorylate P. aeruginosa lipid A at two sites of the molecule. Surprisingly, a previously uncharacterized lipid A 4′‐dephospho‐1‐triphosphate species was detected. LpxTPa activity is inhibited by magnesium independently of lpxTPa transcription. Modulation of LpxTPa activity is influenced by transcription of the lipid A aminoarabinose transferase ArnT, known to be activated in response to limiting magnesium. These results demonstrate a divergent activity of LpxTPa, and suggest the existence of a co‐ordinated regulatory mechanism that permits adaptation to a changing environment.
Discrimination of Thoracic Vein Potentials Facilitated by Atrial Pacing during the Isolation
Authors: MASUDA RYO , MIYAZAKI SHINSUKE , KUSA SHIGEKI , KOMATSU YUKI , HACHIYA HITOSHI , IESAKA YOSHITO 
Published: September 2014

BackgroundAlthough electrical thoracic vein (TV) isolation is an established strategy during atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation, discriminating TV potentials from far‐field signals is critical for the achievement.Methods and ResultsOne hundred consecutive drug‐refractory symptomatic paroxysmal AF patients who underwent AF catheter ablation were included. All patients underwent circumferential pulmonary vein (PV) isolation during distal coronary sinus (CS) pacing with a cycle length of 600 ms. A superior vena cava (SVC) isolation was added during high right atrial (HRA) pacing with the same cycle length in 79 patients in whom SVC potentials were identified. The interval between the near‐field PV potentials and far‐field atrial signals significantly prolonged more during distal CS pacing than sinus rhythm (SR) in the left superior (26.0 [18.5–32.8] ms to 36.0 [24.3–55.5] ms, P < 0.01) and left inferior PVs (21.0 [14.0–30.0] ms to 40.0 [23.0–56.0] ms, P < 0.01), but not in the right superior (34.0 [20.0–40.0] ms to 23.0 [18.0–36.0] ms, P = 0.13) and right inferior PVs (22.0 [16.0–28.0] ms to 25.0 [18.0–38.0] ms, P = 0.05). The interval between the SVC potentials and far‐field atrial signals significantly prolonged more during HRA pacing than SR (20.0 [0–32.0] ms to 34.0 [24.0–46.0] ms, P < 0.01). Electrical isolation was successfully achieved in all TVs without any complications except for transient right phrenic nerve palsy in two patients.ConclusionsDiscrimination of ipsilateral left PVs and SVC potentials is facilitated by pacing from the distal CS and HRA, respectively. Better recognition of TV potentials would help to achieve electrical isolation.
Hereditary tyrosinemia type 1 in Turkey: Twenty year single‐center experience
Authors: Aktuglu Zeybek A Cigdem , Kiykim Ertugrul , Soyucen Erdogan , Cansever Serif , Altay Suheyla , Zubarioglu Tanyel , Erkan Tulay , Aydin Ahmet 
Published: September 2014

AbstractBackgroundHereditary tyrosinemia type 1(HT1) is a chronic disorder leading to severe hepatic, renal and peripheral nerve damage if left untreated. Despite nitisinone treatment HT1 still carries the risks of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and neuropsychological outcome.MethodsA retrospective single center study was carried out based on the phenotype, therapy and outcome in 38 Turkish patients with HT1 diagnosed during the last 20 years.ResultsNone of the patients was diagnosed on newborn screening. The patients were grouped according to acute, subacute and chronic forms of the disorder. The main clinical manifestations were hepatosplenomegaly, liver and renal tubular dysfunction. Thirty‐six patients were treated with nitisinone. The mean duration of nitisinone treatment was 64 months and the mean dosage was 1.2 mg/kg/day. Dietary compliance problems were frequent. Eleven patients had cognitive evaluation (mean total IQ, 84 points). Six patients had living donor liver transplantation despite nitisinone treatment: three due to suspected HCC, two for non‐compliance to diet, and one for both, at a median age of 90 months.ConclusionNitisinone treatment is effective and improves both short‐ and long‐term prognosis of HT1. Early diagnosis on newborn screening is needed because delay in treatment increases the risk of the persistence of hepatic disease and HCC. Interruption of the drug can lead to re‐occurrence of hepatocellular damage and neurological crisis. Increased α‐fetoprotein and new hypoechoic nodule formation are the warning signs for HCC.
Surgical consultation and intervention during pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Madenci Arin L. , Lehmann Leslie E. , Weldon Christopher B. 
Published: September 2014

AbstractChildren undergoing HSCT are at risk for complications due to immune system impairment, toxicity from prior therapies and conditioning regimens, and long‐term use of indwelling catheters. These problems may require assessment by the surgical team. We sought to characterize the role of surgical consultation during primary hospital stay for HSCT. We retrospectively reviewed the records of consecutive patients undergoing HSCT between September 2010 and September 2012. One hundred and seventy‐three patients underwent 189 HSCTs. General surgery consultations occurred during 33% (n = 62) of primary hospitalizations for HSCT, with a total of 85 consults. Sixty‐three (73%) consults resulted in an intervention in the operating room or at the bedside. The majority of consults were for CVL issues (59%, n = 50), followed by abdominal complaints (16%, n = 14). Patients requiring surgical consultation had significantly higher in‐hospital mortality (16% vs. 2%, p < 0.01) and 100‐day TRM (10% vs. 2%, p < 0.01), compared with those not requiring consultation. Patients undergoing HSCT often require surgical consultation, most commonly for line‐related issues. Surgical consultation heralded an increased risk of in‐hospital and 100‐day TRM. Issues among this high‐risk cohort of children who have undergone HSCT must be familiar to the general surgeon and oncologist alike.