bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Protective immunity conferred by porcine circovirus 2 ORF2‐based DNA vaccine in mice
Authors: Sylla Seydou , Cong Yan‐Long , Sun Yi‐Xue , Yang Gui‐Lian , Ding Xue‐Mei , Yang Zhan‐Qing , Zhou Yu‐Long , Yang Minnan , Wang Chun‐Feng , Ding Zhuang 
Published: May 2014

AbstractPost‐weaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS) associated with porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) has caused the swine industry significant health challenges and economic damage. Although inactivated and subunit vaccines against PMWS have been used widely, so far no DNA vaccine is available. In this study, with the aim of exploring a new route for developing a vaccine against PCV2, the immunogenicity of a DNA vaccine was evaluated in mice. The pEGFP‐N1 vector was used to construct a PCV2 Cap gene recombinant vaccine. To assess the immunogenicity of pEGFP‐Cap, 80 BALB/c mice were immunized three times at 2 weekly intervals with pEGFP‐Cap, LG‐strain vaccine, pEGFP‐N1 vector or PBS and then challenged with PCV2. IgG and cytokines were assessed by indirect ELISA and ELISA, respectively. Specimens stained with hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) techniques were examined histopathologically. It was found that vaccination of the mice with the pEGFP‐Cap induced solid protection against PCV2 infection through induction of highly specific serum IgG antibodies and cytokines (IFN‐γ and IL‐10), and a small PCV2 viral load. The mice treated with the pEGFP‐Cap and LG‐strain developed no histopathologically detectable lesions (HE stain) and IHC techniques revealed only a few positive cells. Thus, this study demonstrated that recombinant pEGFP‐Cap substantially alleviates PCV2 infection in mice and provides evidence that a DNA vaccine could be an alternative to PCV2 vaccines against PMWS.
Coexistence of multiple strains of porcine parvovirus 2 in pig farms
Authors: Saekhow Prayuth , Mawatari Takahiro , Ikeda Hidetoshi 
Published: May 2014

AbstractThe porcine parvovirus 2 (PPV2) genome was first identified in 2001 in Myanmar. Recently, the PPV2 genome has been found in several other countries. In this study, the prevalence of PPV2 in Japanese domestic pigs was investigated and found to be 58% (69/120) in healthy domestic pigs and 100% (69/69) in sick domestic pigs. Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of the PCR products of the VP1 gene and an almost full length PPV2 clone indicated that diverged PPV2 strains exist in Japan. Clearly distinct strains of PPV2 were detected in 7 of the 10 pig farms.
Masters of the Universe but Slaves of the Market: Bankers and the Great Financial Meltdown
Authors: Bell Stephen , Hindmoor Andrew 
Published: May 2014

Research Highlights and Abstract This article focuses on the banking crisis in the US and UK. It is essential to understand banker agency and the institutional and structural contexts which shaped such agency. Bankers experienced variegated patters of constraint and opportunity. At one level institutional theories that emphasise institutional constraint cannot easily account for the authority and agency enjoyed by key bankers. On the other hand, bankers were heavily influenced by institutional change in the shape of market ‘liberalisation’, which produced intense levels of competition and pressures to achieve higher profit returns: an exacting form of market discipline. Bankers and financiers in the US and UK modified institutions and revolutionised the banking industry prior to the 2007–8 crisis. These agents were however heavily constrained and eventually overwhelmed by institutional pressures and wider structural forces that encouraged high-risk leveraged trading and which generated systemic risk. To account for this, institutional theory needs to incorporate a broader canvas of conditioning contexts, particularly the impact of structural or systemic forces on agents and the way in which these are actualised as a form of ‘ecosystem power’.
Health journalism in the service of power: ‘moral complacency’ and the Hebrew media in the Gaza–Israel conflict
Authors: Birenbaum‐Carmeli Daphna 
Published: May 2014

AbstractThe power of health news as a vehicle in the production of meaning in the service of power is the core of this article. Tracking the media coverage of a medical service, it shows how a routine practice can be invoked at a time of armed conflict so as to enhance a benevolent state image. The case at hand is the medical treatment of Gaza children in Israeli hospitals. A series of Internet searches revealed a group of publications on the subject in the Hebrew media, during and shortly after Israel's assault on Gaza in the winter of 2008–2009. In the press articles the treatments were invariably constituted as the epitome of Israel's compassion towards the enemy's children. This image relied, however, on a simultaneous silencing of other aspects of these treatments, which would have challenged this image. The monolithic depictions give rise to the notion of reversed moral panic or ‘moral complacency’, wherein the media amplifies a little‐known social phenomenon into an epitome of societal values and charges it with significance on a national scale. The article ends with considering some features that possibly render health news an especially convenient domain for state‐supportive media presentations.
Measuring the Accuracy of Automatic Shoeprint Recognition Methods
Authors: Luostarinen Tapio , Lehmussola Antti 
Published: May 2014

AbstractShoeprints are an important source of information for criminal investigation. Therefore, an increasing number of automatic shoeprint recognition methods have been proposed for detecting the corresponding shoe models. However, comprehensive comparisons among the methods have not previously been made. In this study, an extensive set of methods proposed in the literature was implemented, and their performance was studied in varying conditions. Three datasets of different quality shoeprints were used, and the methods were evaluated also with partial and rotated prints. The results show clear differences between the algorithms: while the best performing method, based on local image descriptors and RANSAC, provides rather good results with most of the experiments, some methods are almost completely unrobust against any unidealities in the images. Finally, the results demonstrate that there is still a need for extensive research to improve the accuracy of automatic recognition of crime scene prints.
Shot Through the Heart—Firepower and Potential Lethality of Air Weapons
Authors: Bakovic Marija , Petrovecki Vedrana , Strinovic Davor , Mayer Davor 
Published: May 2014

AbstractAlthough certain air weapons attain muzzle velocities comparable to some firearms, their successful use for committing suicide is rarely seen. Herein, we report a case of a young female died shortly after urgent admission to the hospital with penetrating gunshot wound to the chest. The autopsy revealed perforation of the pericardium and two perforative defects to the right heart ventricle. Injury was inflicted by a 0.177 caliber pellet, fired from an air rifle found near her body. Investigation ruled the death as suicide. The used air rifle fired the pellet with the energy density of 1.9 J/mm2, substantially above the threshold for inflicting injury. The pellet penetrated through two layers of cotton fabric and several layers of tissue to inflict fatal injury to the heart. In addition, we provide an insight into the wounding potential of air weapons, which illustrates the need for greater caution in handling those devices.
Distortion in Fingerprints: A Statistical Investigation using Shape Measurement Tools
Authors: Sheets H. David , Torres Anne , Langenburg Glenn , Bush Peter J. , Bush Mary A. 
Published: May 2014

AbstractFriction ridge impression appearance can be affected due to the type of surface touched and pressure exerted during deposition. Understanding the magnitude of alterations, regions affected, and systematic/detectable changes occurring would provide useful information. Geometric morphometric techniques were used to statistically characterize these changes. One hundred and fourteen prints were obtained from a single volunteer and impressed with heavy, normal, and light pressure on computer paper, soft gloss paper, 10‐print card stock, and retabs. Six hundred prints from 10 volunteers were rolled with heavy, normal, and light pressure on soft gloss paper and 10‐print card stock. Results indicate that while different substrates/pressure levels produced small systematic changes in fingerprints, the changes were small in magnitude: roughly the width of one ridge. There were no detectable changes in the degree of random variability of prints associated with either pressure or substrate. In conclusion, the prints transferred reliably regardless of pressure or substrate
Early age of alcohol initiation is not the cause of alcohol use disorders in adulthood, but is a major indicator of genetic risk. A population‐based twin study
Authors: Ystrom Eivind , Kendler Kenneth S. , Reichborn‐Kjennerud Ted 
Published: May 2014

AbstractBackground and aimsAn early age of alcohol initiation (AAI) is associated with and has been hypothesized to be a cause of alcohol use disorders (AUD) in adulthood. Results from twin studies, however, indicate that AAI is an indicator of risk for AUD. We aimed to test a causal hypothesis versus a risk indicator hypothesis for the relationship between early AAI and AUD.DesignA population‐based twin study using biometric twin modelling.SettingNorway.ParticipantsA population‐based sample of 1336 Norwegian twins.MeasurementsLife‐time DSM‐IV AUDs were assessed by structured clinical interview and AAI by questionnaire.FindingsThe risk indicator model in which the association between AAI and AUD was explained by common vulnerability was the best fitted to the data. The heritability was 37% [95% confidence interval (CI) = 21%, 53%] for AAI and 62% (95% CI = 51%, 73%) for AUD. Genetic risk for AAI accounted for 44% (95% CI = 17%, 71%) of the total genetic risk for AUD and the correlation between genetic factors for AAI and AUD was −0.66 (95%CI −0.87, −0.46). Individual‐specific environmental risk for AAI explained only 1% (95% CI = 0%, 3%) of the risk for AUD. Shared environmental factors did not influence AUD, but accounted for 25% (95% CI = 7%, 35%) of the variance in AAI.ConclusionsThe association between early age of alcohol initiation and alcohol use disorders in later life does not reflect a causal relationship, but is due almost entirely to common genetic risk factors.
The relation of airway obstruction to asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis and age: results from a population survey of adults
Authors: Obaseki D. , Potts J. , Joos G. , Baelum J. , Haahtela T. , Ahlström M. , Matricardi P. , Kramer U. , Gjomarkaj M. , Fokkens W. , Makowska J. , Todo‐Bom A. , Toren K. , Janson C. , Dahlen S.‐E. , Forsberg B. , Jarvis D. , Howarth P. , Brozek G. , Minov J. , Bachert C. , Burney P. ,   the GALEN network of excellence
Published: May 2014

AbstractRationaleThere is conflicting evidence on whether patients with asthma experience an accelerated decline in lung function with age. We examined the association between postbronchodilator lung function, asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), and atopy with age using a large European sample.MethodsIn 17 centers in 11 European countries, case–control studies were nested within representative cross‐sectional surveys of adults aged less than 75 years. Representative samples of participants with asthma, CRS or both and controls were assessed for postbronchodilator ventilatory function, smoking history, atopy, and treatment. Multiple regression was used to assess the interactive effects of age and diagnostic group on decline in postbronchodilator ventilatory function.ResultsA total of 3337 participants provided adequate data (778 with asthma, 399 with CRS, 244 with both asthma and CRS and 1916 controls who had neither asthma nor CRS). Participants with asthma had lower FEV1/FVC (−4.09% (95% CI: −5.02, −3.15, P < 0.001) and a steeper slope of FEV1/FVC against age (−0.14%/annum [95%CI: −0.19, −0.08]) equivalent to smoking 1–2 packs of cigarettes per day. Those with atopy had a slope equivalent to controls.ConclusionsPeople with asthma have a steeper decline in postbronchodilator lung function with age, but neither CRS nor atopy alone were associated with such decline.
Intra‐ and inter‐centre standardisation of thromboelastography (TEG®)
Authors: Quarterman C. , Shaw M. , Johnson I. , Agarwal S. 
Published: May 2014

SummaryThromboelastography is used for assessment of coagulation and to guide administration of blood products peri‐operatively. There is currently no method of standardisation in the UK, nor an approved method of proving quality. We investigated the reproducibility of thromboelastography by testing whole blood with no coagulation abnormality in three phases. Where a single operator performed multiple assays on the same blood sample at a single location, we found considerable variation, with 21% of R‐ and 25% of K‐time measurements lying outside a set tolerance range (median ± 20%). Where samples were analysed by different operators in a single location, this finding was repeated. Where blood was transported in a citrated form for simultaneous analysis in multiple locations, results were more consistent, suggesting improved stability. Across all phases of testing there was good reproducibility of the maximum amplitude. Further examination of the results indicated less variation where analysis was performed on blood taken from the same kaolin vial compared with results from different vials. Our preliminary study indicates that R‐ and K‐times may be highly variable, which we hypothesise may be due to variable mixing of blood and kaolin. We intend to repeat this study in the context of coagulopathy, where variability in results could potentially impact upon transfusion practice.
A holistic perspective of patients' lives post‐Ilizarov external fixation
Authors: Baschera Dominik , Kingwell Doug , Wren Michael , Zellweger René 
Published: May 2014

AbstractBackgroundThe Ilizarov external fixator (IEF) is used in the treatment of complicated fractures with severe soft tissue damage. Despite advantages of being minimally invasive and allowing early weight‐bearing, the IEF has limitations, including size, treatment duration and crucial pin‐site care. Many patients showed enormous resilience despite the devastating effects of their injuries. Our aim was to assess the value of IEF treatment for trauma patients with a focus on their quality of life.MethodsA postal survey was administered to 89 patients treated with an IEF at a level 1 trauma centre between January 2000 and June 2009. An SF‐12 health survey was incorporated to measure quality of life. SPSS 18.0 was used for statistical analysis of the data.ResultsThe response rate was 73%. The majority of patients (77%) were treated with IEF for primary fractures. The median duration in IEF was 174 days (56–614 days). The SF‐12 mean mental component score was 51 (16–66) and the mean physical component score was 38 (16–57) at the time of survey. The mental component score was similar to that of a normal population but the physical component score was markedly below. A total of 96.8% respondents were satisfied with the IEF treatment and 91.7% reported that under the same circumstances they would have the same treatment again.ConclusionsPatient's quality of life scores correlated directly with their injury severity and pre‐existing conditions. They were not negatively affected by IEF treatment itself. High quality of life scores (non‐physical) were achieved with IEF treatment.
First Experience With the Synergy Micro‐Pump in Patients in INTERMACS Class 1–2 as a Bridge to Transplantation: Pushing the Limits?
Authors: Sabashnikov Anton , Popov Aron‐Frederik , Bowles Christopher T. , Weymann Alexander , Mohite Prashant N. , Wahlers Thorsten , Wittwer Thorsten , Zych Bartlomiej , Garcia‐Saez Diana , Patil Nikhil P. , Fatullayev Javid , Amrani Mohamed , Banner Nicholas R. , Seidler Tim , Unsoeld Bernhard , Bireta Christian , Schoendube Friedrich A. , Simon André R. 
Published: May 2014

AbstractThe Synergy Micro‐pump is the smallest implantable left ventricular assist device (LVAD) and provides partial flow support up to 4.25 L/min. It was shown that early intervention with this device can provide substantial benefits to patients with severe heart failure not yet sick enough for a full‐support LVAD. However, as it can be inserted via small incisions with no need for sternotomy or cardiopulmonary bypass, it might be beneficial for selected high‐risk patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the Synergy Micro‐pump in patients in INTERMACS class 1–2. From February 2012 to August 2013, 13 patients with severe heart failure were supported with the Synergy Pocket Micro‐pump. Patients were divided into two groups according to INTERMACS class: the high‐risk group (INTERMACS class 1–2) and the low‐risk group (INTERMACS class 3–4). There were seven patients in INTERMACS class 1–2 and six in INTERMACS class 3–4. Patient demographics, perioperative characteristics, and postoperative outcomes were compared. There were no statistically significant differences in patient demographics, and mean support time was 108 ± 114 days in the high‐risk group and 238 ± 198 days in the low‐risk group. Also, there were no significant differences in perioperative characteristics or in the rate of postoperative adverse events. The overall survival was comparable between the two groups (one late death in each group, log‐rank P = 0.608). Two patients from the high‐risk group were upgraded to a full‐support LVAD (P = 0.462) after 65 ± 84.9 days of mean support. One patient from the high‐risk group and two patients from the low‐risk group were successfully transplanted (P = 0.559). The use of the Synergy Micro‐pump in INTERMACS 1–2 patients is feasible and is associated with similar postoperative outcome as in patients in INTERMACS 3–4. Carefully selected patients with severe heart failure could benefit due to the small size of the pump; however, further studies and medium‐term follow‐up are required.
A New Computational Fluid Dynamics Method for In‐Depth Investigation of Flow Dynamics in Roller Pump Systems
Authors: Zhou Xiaoming , Liang Xin M. , Zhao Gang , Su Youchao , Wang Yang 
Published: May 2014

AbstractRoller pumps are commonly used in circulatory assist devices to deliver blood, but the inherent high mechanical stresses (especially wall shear stress) may cause considerable damage to cells. Conventional experimental approaches to evaluate and reduce device‐induced cell damage require considerable effort and resources. In this work, we describe the use of a new computational fluid dynamics method to more effectively study roller pump systems. A generalized parametric model for the fluid field in a typical roller pump system is presented first, and analytical formulations of the moving boundary are then derived. Based on the model and formulations, the dynamic geometry and mesh of the fluid field can be updated automatically according to the time‐dependent roller positions. The described method successfully simulated the pulsing flow generated by the pump, offering a convenient way to visualize the inherent flow pattern and to assess shear‐induced cell damage. Moreover, the highly reconfigurable model and the semiautomated simulation process extend the usefulness of the presented method to a wider range of applications. Comparison studies were conducted, and valuable indications about the detailed effects of structural parameters and operational conditions on the produced wall shear stress were obtained. Given the good consistency between the simulated results and the existing experimental data, the presented method displays promising potential to more effectively guide the development of improved roller pump systems which produce less mechanical damage to cells.
Comparison of the composting process using ear corn residue and three other conventional bulking agents during cow manure composting under high‐moisture conditions
Authors: Hanajima Dai 
Published: May 2014

AbstractTo elucidate the characteristics of ear corn residue as a bulking agent, the composting process using this residue was compared with processes using three other conventional materials such as sawdust, wheat straw and rice husk, employing a bench‐scale composting reactor. As evaluated via biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), ear corn residue contains 3.3 and 2.0 times more easily digestible materials than sawdust and rice husk, respectively. In addition, mixing ear corn residue with manure resulted in reduced bulk density, which was the same as that of wheat straw and was 0.58 and 0.67 times lower than that of sawdust and a rice husk mixture, respectively. To evaluate temperature generation during the composting process, the maximum temperature and area under the temperature curve (AUCTEMP) were compared among the mixed composts of four bulking agents. Maximum temperature (54.3°C) as well as AUCTEMP (7310°C●h) of ear corn residue were significantly higher than those of sawdust and rice husk (P < 0.05), and they are similar to that of wheat straw mixed compost. Along with the value of AUCTEMP, the highest organic matter losses of 31.1% were observed in ear corn residue mixed compost, followed by wheat straw, saw dust and rice husk.
Parameters affecting genome simulation for evaluating genomic selection method
Authors: Nishio Motohide , Satoh Masahiro 
Published: May 2014

AbstractThe present study investigated the parameter settings for obtaining a simulated genome at steady state of allele frequency (mutation–drift equilibrium) and linkage disequilibrium (LD), and evaluated the impact of whether or not the simulated genome reached steady state of allele frequency and LD on the accuracy of genomic estimated breeding values (GEBVs). After 500 to 50 000 historical generations, the base population and subsequent seven generations were generated as recent populations. The allele frequency distribution of the last generations of the historical population and LD in the base population were calculated when varying the values of five parameters: initial minor allele frequency, mutation rate, effective population size, number of markers and chromosome length. The accuracies of GEBVs in the last generation of the recent population were calculated by genomic best linear unbiased prediction. The number of historical generations required to reach mutation–drift equilibrium depended on the initial allele frequency and mutation rate. Regardless of the parameters, LD reached a steady state before allele frequency distribution reached mutation–drift equilibrium. The accuracies of GEBVs largely reflect the extent of linkage disequilibrium with the exception of varying chromosome length, although there were no associations between the accuracies of GEBVs and allele frequency distribution.