bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Humoral immune response to HTLV-1 basic leucine zipper factor (HBZ) in HTLV-1-infected individuals
Authors: Enose-Akahata Yoshimi , Abrams Anna , Massoud Raya , Bialuk Izabela , Johnson Kory R , Green Patrick L , Maloney Elizabeth M , Jacobson Steven
Published: February 2013

Background

Human T cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) infection can lead to development of adult T cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL) or HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP) in a subset of infected subjects. HTLV-1 basic leucine zipper factor (HBZ) gene has a critical role in HTLV-1 infectivity and the development of ATL and HAM/TSP. However, little is known about the immune response against HBZ in HTLV-1-infected individuals. In this study, we examined antibody responses against HBZ in serum/plasma samples from 436 subjects including HTLV-1 seronegative donors, asymptomatic carriers (AC), ATL, and HAM/TSP patients using the luciferase immunoprecipitation system.

Results

Immunoreactivity against HBZ was detected in subsets of all HTLV-1-infected individuals but the test did not discriminate between AC, ATL and HAM/TSP. However, the frequency of detection of HBZ-specific antibodies in the serum of ATL patients with the chronic subtype was higher than in ATL patients with the lymphomatous subtype. Antibody responses against HBZ were also detected in cerebrospinal fluid of HAM/TSP patients with anti-HBZ in serum. Antibody responses against HBZ did not correlate with proviral load and HBZ mRNA expression in HAM/TSP patients, but the presence of an HBZ-specific response was associated with reduced CD4+ T cell activation in HAM/TSP patients. Moreover, HBZ-specific antibody inhibited lymphoproliferation in the PBMC of HAM/TSP patients.

Conclusions

This is the first report demonstrating humoral immune response against HBZ associated with HTLV-I infection. Thus, a humoral immune response against HBZ might play a role in HTLV-1 infection.
A novel bocavirus in canine liver
Authors: Li Linlin , Pesavento Patricia A , Leutenegger Christian M , Estrada Marko , Coffey Lark L , Naccache Samia N , Samayoa Erik , Chiu Charles , Qiu Jianming , Wang Chunlin , Deng Xutao , Delwart Eric
Published: February 2013

Background

Bocaviruses are classified as a genus within the Parvoviridae family of single-stranded DNA viruses and are pathogenic in some mammalian species. Two species have been previously reported in dogs, minute virus of canines (MVC), associated with neonatal diseases and fertility disorders; and Canine bocavirus (CBoV), associated with respiratory disease.

Findings

In this study using deep sequencing of enriched viral particles from the liver of a dog with severe hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, necrotizing vasculitis, granulomatous lymphadenitis and anuric renal failure, we identified and characterized a novel bocavirus we named Canine bocavirus 3 (CnBoV3). The three major ORFs of CnBoV3 (NS1, NP1 and VP1) shared less than 60% aa identity with those of other bocaviruses qualifying it as a novel species based on ICTV criteria. Inverse PCR showed the presence of concatemerized or circular forms of the genome in liver.

Conclusions

We genetically characterized a bocavirus in a dog liver that is highly distinct from prior canine bocaviruses found in respiratory and fecal samples. Its role in this animal’s complex disease remains to be determined.
Systematic review of central nervous system anomalies in incontinentia pigmenti
Authors: Minić Snežana , Trpinac Dušan , Obradović Miljana
Published: February 2013

The objective of this study was to present a systematic review of the central nervous system (CNS) types of anomalies and to consider the possibility to include CNS anomalies in Incontinentia pigmenti (IP) criteria. The analyzed literature data from 1,393 IP cases were from the period 1993–2012. CNS anomalies were diagnosed for 30.44% of the investigated IP patients. The total number of CNS types of anomalies per patient was 1.62. In the present study there was no significantly higher number of anomalies per patient in females than males. The most frequent CNS types of anomalies were seizures, motor impairment, mental retardation, and microcephaly. The most frequently registered CNS lesions found using brain imaging methods were brain infarcts or necrosis, brain atrophies, and corpus callosum lesions. IKBKG exon 4–10 deletion was present in 86.00% of genetically confirmed IP patients. The frequency of CNS anomalies, similar to the frequency of retinal anomalies in IP patients, concurrent with their severity, supports their recognition in the list of IP minor criteria.
Joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis: assessment of a new scoring method
Authors: Pfeil Alexander , Oelzner Peter , Bornholdt Klaus , Hansch Andreas , Lehmann Gabriele , Renz Diane M , Wolf Gunter , Böttcher Joachim
Published: February 2013

Introduction

The aim of this study was to assess a novel approach for the quantification of finger joint space narrowing and joint destruction in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) focusing on the peripheral hand articulations.

Methods

A total of 280 patients with verified RA underwent computerized semi-automated measurements of joint space distance at the finger articulations based on radiographs. The Z-Score, which can differentiate between joint space alterations caused by RA versus age/gender-related changes, was calculated as a comparative parameter. The severity of joint space narrowing was also quantified by the Sharp Score. Sensitivity and specificity of the Z-Score (based on joint space widths differentiated for each peripheral finger joint) were evaluated to reveal the potential for the occurrence of erosions. Additionally, the potential of the Z-Score regarding the differentiation of therapeutic effects on joint space widths in patients under a therapy of methotrexate versus leflunomide was performed.

Results

The Z-Scores of finger articulations in patients with RA were generally decreased. Metacarpal-phalangeal (MCP) joint articulations showed a continuous significant decline of -1.65 ± 0.30 standard deviations dependent on the Sharp Score. The proximal-interphalangeal joints also revealed a significant reduction of the Z-Score (-0.96 ± 0.31 standard deviations). The sensitivity and specificity of MCP joint space distance for the detection of erosions were 85.4% versus 55.2%. The Sharp Score for joint space narrowing was not able to detect different treatments, whereas an accentuated stabilization of joint space narrowing could be identified for the Z-Score of the MCP joints in patients treated with leflunomide and methotrexate.

Conclusion

The Z-Scoring method based on computer-aided analysis of joint space widths was able to reliably quantify severity-dependent joint space narrowing in RA patients. In the future, calculation of a Z-Score based on gender-specific and age-specific reference data shows the potential for a surrogate marker of RA progression that comprehends the early identification of patients with RA, and in particular those with erosive course of the disease, enabling a timely therapeutic strategy for cartilage protection.
Increased aggression during pregnancy comes at a higher metabolic cost
Authors: Seebacher F. , Ward A. J. W. , Wilson R. S.
Published: February 2013

Aggressive behaviour is linked to fitness, but it is metabolically costly. Changes in metabolic demand during the reproductive cycle could constrain activity and thereby modulate behavioural phenotypes. We predicted that increased metabolic demands in late pregnancy would lead to reduced aggression and a lower metabolic cost of behaviour in the mosquitofish Gambusia holbrooki. Contrary to our prediction, females became more aggressive in late pregnancy, but metabolic scope (i.e. the metabolic energy available for activity and behaviour) decreased. Consequently, late-stage pregnant females spent significantly more of their available metabolic scope on aggressive behaviour. Hence, as pregnancy progressed, females showed increasingly risky behaviour by depleting metabolic resources available for activities other than fighting. We argue that the metabolic cost of behaviour, and possibly personality, is best expressed with reference to metabolic scope, rather than resting metabolic rates or concentrations of metabolites. This dependence on metabolic scope could render reproductive success sensitive to environmental changes.
Constructing a Climate Change Logic: An Institutional Perspective on the “Tragedy of the Commons”
Authors: Ansari Shahzad (Shaz) , Wijen Frank , Gray Barbara
Published: February 2013

Despite increasing interest in transnational fields, transnational commons have received little attention. In contrast to economic models of commons, which argue that commons occur naturally and are prone to collective inaction and tragedy, we introduce a social constructionist account of commons. Specifically, we show that actor-level frame changes can eventually lead to the emergence of an overarching, hybrid “commons logic” at the field level. These frame shifts enable actors with different logics to reach a working consensus and avoid “tragedies of the commons.” Using a longitudinal analysis of key actors’ logics and frames, we tracked the evolution of the global climate change field over 40 years. We bracketed time periods demarcated by key field-configuring events, documented the different frame shifts in each time period, and identified five mechanisms (collective theorizing, issue linkage, active learning, legitimacy seeking, and catalytic amplification) that underpin how and why actors changed their frames at various points in time—enabling them to move toward greater consensus around a transnational commons logic. In conclusion, the emergence of a commons logic in a transnational field is a nonlinear process and involves satisfying three conditions: (1) key actors view their fates as being interconnected with respect to a problem issue, (2) these actors perceive their own behavior as contributing to the problem, and (3) they take collective action to address the problem. Our findings provide insights for multinational companies, nation-states, nongovernmental organizations, and other stakeholders in both conventional and unconventional commons.
Advice for the Courts? Sufficiently Reliable Assistance with Forensic Science and Medicine (Part 2)
Authors: Edmond Gary
Published: February 2013

In recent years, following public inquiries (for example, the Goudge Inquiry, 2007–08), reviews (for example, the US National Academy of Science, 2009; the Law Commission of England and Wales, 2011), systematic analysis of wrongful convictions (for example, Innocence Projects) and empirical studies, weaknesses with many types of forensic science and the frailty of the adversarial criminal trial have been exposed, though inadequately addressed. Drawing upon emerging empirical evidence from a variety of common law jurisdictions (and recent work in the sociology of science) and building upon the discussion of the Law Commission's Report and draft Bill (in Part 1), this article considers one means of helping common law courts to respond to some of the primary difficulties raised by incriminating forensic science and forensic medicine evidence. The proposal, involving an independent multidisciplinary advisory panel (or MAP) reviewing impugned forensic science and medical techniques to assess their reliability in order to provide support with admissibility determinations, is intended to provide practical assistance with controversial expert opinion evidence adduced by the state though without excessive encroachment upon the traditional party-dominated accusatorial trial.
The Judicial Discretion to Exclude Relevant Evidence: Perspectives from an Indian Evidence Act Jurisdiction
Authors: Siyuan Chen
Published: February 2013

Stephen's ground-breaking Indian Evidence Act contained ideas that appear unfamiliar in the context of modern rules of evidence. Singapore is an Indian Evidence Act jurisdiction which has retained those ideas, such as the non-distinction between relevance and admissibility, the framing of exclusionary rules in inclusionary terms, and the prohibition against relying on common law developments inconsistent with the Evidence Act. These peculiarities should have presented obstacles to the applicability of the common law concept of the judicial discretion to exclude relevant evidence, but this has not been the case. In this article, I first suggest why Singapore courts might have been attracted to the concept, but I then highlight fundamental uncertainties regarding the concept's scope and normative justification. I proceed to propose an alternative paradigm for Singapore, namely using relevance and reliability as the only touchstones for admissibility of all evidence in criminal proceedings. The various advantages of this paradigm are also highlighted.
Expert Witness Evidence in Sexual Assault Trials: Questions, Answers and Law Reform in Australia and England
Authors: Cossins Annie
Published: February 2013

A review of the psychological literature shows that jury-eligible citizens rely on a range of misconceptions based on victim and gender stereotypes when assessing the credibility of sexual assault complainants and rendering verdicts. Since these misconceptions are likely to account for the high attrition and low conviction rates in sexual assault trials in both England and Australia, this article investigates whether or not educative information ought to be admitted in these trials via an expert witness or a judicial direction. It also investigates the type of expert evidence that would be admissible in an adversarial context and the legislative models for doing so, based on Australian reforms. The article concludes by making four recommendations for reform to the laws of evidence in Australia, England and Wales.
Multiplex Picoliter-Droplet Digital PCR for Quantitative Assessment of DNA Integrity in Clinical Samples
Authors: Didelot Audrey , Kotsopoulos Steve K , Lupo Audrey , Pekin Deniz , Li Xinyu , Atochin Ivan , Srinivasan Preethi , Zhong Qun , Olson Jeff , Link Darren R , Laurent-Puig Pierre , Blons Hélène , Hutchison J Brian , Taly Valerie
Published: February 2013

BACKGROUND

Assessment of DNA integrity and quantity remains a bottleneck for high-throughput molecular genotyping technologies, including next-generation sequencing. In particular, DNA extracted from paraffin-embedded tissues, a major potential source of tumor DNA, varies widely in quality, leading to unpredictable sequencing data. We describe a picoliter droplet–based digital PCR method that enables simultaneous detection of DNA integrity and the quantity of amplifiable DNA.

METHODS

Using a multiplex assay, we detected 4 different target lengths (78, 159, 197, and 550 bp). Assays were validated with human genomic DNA fragmented to sizes of 170 bp to 3000 bp. The technique was validated with DNA quantities as low as 1 ng. We evaluated 12 DNA samples extracted from paraffin-embedded lung adenocarcinoma tissues.

RESULTS

One sample contained no amplifiable DNA. The fractions of amplifiable DNA for the 11 other samples were between 0.05% and 10.1% for 78-bp fragments and ≤1% for longer fragments. Four samples were chosen for enrichment and next-generation sequencing. The quality of the sequencing data was in agreement with the results of the DNA-integrity test. Specifically, DNA with low integrity yielded sequencing results with lower levels of coverage and uniformity and had higher levels of false-positive variants.

CONCLUSIONS

The development of DNA-quality assays will enable researchers to downselect samples or process more DNA to achieve reliable genome sequencing with the highest possible efficiency of cost and effort, as well as minimize the waste of precious samples.
Symplectic curvature flow
Authors: Streets Jeffrey , Tian Gang
Published: February 2013

We introduce a parabolic flow of almost Kähler structures,
providing an approach to constructing canonical geometric structures on
symplectic manifolds. We exhibit this flow as one of a family of parabolic flows of almost Hermitian structures, generalizing our
previous work on parabolic flows of Hermitian metrics. We exhibit a long time
existence obstruction for solutions to this flow by showing certain smoothing
estimates for the curvature and torsion. We end with a discussion
of the limiting objects as well as some open problems related to the symplectic
curvature flow.
On inverse scattering at fixed energy for the multidimensional Newton equation in a non-compactly supported field
Authors: Jollivet Alexandre
Published: February 2013

We consider the inverse scattering problem at fixed and sufficiently large energy for the nonrelativistic and relativistic Newton equation in ℝ
n
, , with a smooth and short-range electromagnetic field (V,B). Proceeding from different known results we obtain, in particular, that the scattering map at a fixed and sufficiently large energy uniquely determines (V,B) when B is assumed to be zero in a neighborhood of infinity and V is assumed to be spherically symmetric in a neighborhood of infinity.
Tracking the Course of Hippocampal Representations during Learning: When Is the Map Required?
Authors: Schimanski Lesley A. , Lipa Peter , Barnes Carol A.
Published: February 2013

Distinct ensembles of hippocampal cells can be active in numerous contexts, but specific “cognitive maps” tend to be retrieved on repeat visits to the same place. During aging, the reliability of map retrieval in CA1 networks is reduced; this provides a unique opportunity to investigate correlations between inconsistent activity patterns in circuits hypothesized to enable context encoding and hippocampus-dependent learning ability. Here, CA1 pyramidal cells were recorded in six young and six old rats, while memory for specific locations was probed using a place-dependent eyeblink conditioning task. Rats were conditioned twice daily for 31 days, during which a total of 8259 and 7042 cells were recorded from young and old rats, respectively. Spontaneous remapping, a change in location of the majority of place fields between two consecutive sessions in the same environment, was observed in two young rats and four old rats during this task, but only after at least 13 days of training. Under these conditions the altered network representation did not result in loss of spatial accuracy of the blink, and in fact those rats with the best place conditioning remapped the most, whereas those with the best memory in a spatial water maze task remapped the least. These results suggest that when the hippocampal representation for a particular context is weak or unstable, such as can occur in senescence, extra-hippocampal systems that mediate alternate learning strategies are more likely to dominate behavior.
Segregated Encoding of Reward–Identity and Stimulus–Reward Associations in Human Orbitofrontal Cortex
Authors: Klein-Flügge Miriam Cornelia , Barron Helen Catharine , Brodersen Kay Henning , Dolan Raymond J. , Behrens Timothy Edward John
Published: February 2013

A dominant focus in studies of learning and decision-making is the neural coding of scalar reward value. This emphasis ignores the fact that choices are strongly shaped by a rich representation of potential rewards. Here, using fMRI adaptation, we demonstrate that responses in the human orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) encode a representation of the specific type of food reward predicted by a visual cue. By controlling for value across rewards and by linking each reward with two distinct stimuli, we could test for representations of reward–identity that were independent of associative information. Our results show reward–identity representations in a medial-caudal region of OFC, independent of the associated predictive stimulus. This contrasts with a more rostro-lateral OFC region encoding reward–identity representations tied to the predicate stimulus. This demonstration of adaptation in OFC to reward specific representations opens an avenue for investigation of more complex decision mechanisms that are not immediately accessible in standard analyses, which focus on correlates of average activity.
Adenomatous Polyposis Coli Regulates Oligodendroglial Development
Authors: Lang Jordan , Maeda Yoshiko , Bannerman Peter , Xu Jie , Horiuchi Makoto , Pleasure David , Guo Fuzheng
Published: February 2013

The expression of the gut tumor suppressor gene adenomatous polyposis coli (Apc) and its role in the oligodendroglial lineage are poorly understood. We found that immunoreactive APC is transiently induced in the oligodendroglial lineage during both normal myelination and remyelination following toxin-induced, genetic, or autoimmune demyelination murine models. Using the Cre/loxP system to conditionally ablate APC from the oligodendroglial lineage, we determined that APC enhances proliferation of oligodendroglial progenitor cells (OPCs) and is essential for oligodendrocyte differentiation in a cell-autonomous manner. BiallelicApcdisruption caused translocation of β-catenin into the nucleus and upregulated β-catenin-mediated Wnt signaling in early postnatal but not adult oligodendroglial lineage cells. The results of conditional ablation ofApcorCtnnb1(the gene encoding β-catenin) and of simultaneous conditional ablation ofApcandCtnnb1revealed that β-catenin is dispensable for postnatal oligodendroglial differentiation, thatApcone-allele deficiency is not sufficient to dysregulate β-catenin-mediated Wnt signaling in oligodendroglial lineage cells, and that APC regulates oligodendrocyte differentiation through β-catenin-independent, as well as β-catenin-dependent, mechanisms. Gene ontology analysis of microarray data suggested that the β-catenin-independent mechanism involves APC regulation of the cytoskeleton, a result compatible with established APC functions in neural precursors and with our observation thatApc-deleted OPCs develop fewer, shorter processesin vivo. Together, our data support the hypothesis that APC regulates oligodendrocyte differentiation through both β-catenin-dependent and additional β-catenin-independent mechanisms.
Reduced Occipital Alpha Power Indexes Enhanced Excitability Rather than Improved Visual Perception
Authors: Lange Joachim , Oostenveld Robert , Fries Pascal
Published: February 2013

Several studies have demonstrated that prestimulus occipital alpha-band activity substantially influences subjective perception and discrimination of near-threshold or masked visual stimuli. Here, we studied the role of prestimulus power fluctuations in two visual phenomena called double-flash illusion (DFI) and fusion effect (FE), both consisting of suprathreshold stimuli. In both phenomena, human subjects' perception varies on a trial-by-trial basis between perceiving one or two visual stimuli, despite constant stimulation. In the FE, two stimuli correspond to veridical perception. In the DFI, two stimuli correspond to an illusory perception. This provides for a critical test of whether reduced alpha power indeed promotes veridical perception in general. We find that in both, DFI and FE, reduced prestimulus occipital alpha predicts the perception of two stimuli, regardless of whether this is veridical (FE) or illusory (DFI). Our results suggest that reduced alpha-band power does not always predict improved visual processing, but rather enhanced excitability. In addition, for the DFI, enhanced prestimulus occipital gamma-band power predicted the perception of two visual stimuli. These findings provide new insights into the role of prestimulus rhythmic activity for visual processing.
HTR2 Receptors in a Songbird Premotor Cortical-Like Area Modulate Spectral Characteristics of Zebra Finch Song
Authors: Wood William E. , Roseberry Thomas K. , Perkel David J.
Published: February 2013

Serotonin [5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)] is involved in modulating an array of complex behaviors including learning, depression, and circadian rhythms. Additionally, HTR2 receptors on layer V pyramidal neurons are thought to mediate the actions of psychedelic drugs; the native function of these receptors at this site, however, remains unknown. Previously, we found that activation of HTR2 receptors in the zebra finch forebrain song premotor structure the robust nucleus of the arcopallium (RA) led to increased excitation, and that endogenous 5-HT could roughly double spontaneous firing rate. Here, usingin vivosingle-unit recordings, we found that direct application of 5-HT to these same RA projection neurons, which are analogous to layer V cortical pyramidal neurons, caused a significant increase in the number of action potentials per song-related burst, and a dramatic decrease in signal-to-noise ratio. Injection of the serotonergic neurotoxin 5,7-dihydroxytryptamine into the third ventricle greatly reduced telencephalic 5-HT and resulted in decreased fundamental frequency of harmonic syllables as well as increased goodness of pitch. Both of these results can be explained by the observed actions of 5-HT on RA projection neurons, and both effects recovered to baseline within 2 weeks following the toxin injection. These results show that 5-HT is involved in modulating spectral properties of song, likely via effects on RA projection neurons, but that adult zebra finches can partially compensate for this deficit within 7 d.
Prediction of embryo implantation potential by mass spectrometry fingerprinting of the culture medium
Authors: Cortezzi Sylvia Sanches , Cabral Elaine Cristina , Trevisan Marcello Garcia , Ferreira Christina Ramires , Setti Amanda Souza , Braga Daniela Paes de Almeida Ferreira , Figueira Rita de Cássia Sávio , Iaconelli Assumpto , Eberlin Marcos Nogueira , Borges Edson
Published: February 2013

This study has evaluated the performance of a multivariate statistical model to predict embryo implantation potential by processing data from the chemical fingerprinting of culture medium samples used for human embryo culture. The culture medium for 113 embryos from 55 patients undergoing ICSI was collected after embryo transfer. The samples were split into positive (n=29) and negative (n=84) implantation groups according their implantation outcomes (100% or 0% implantation). The samples were individually diluted and analyzed by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS). Them/zratios and relative abundances of the major ions in each spectrum were considered for partial least square discriminant analysis. Data were divided into two subsets (calibration and validation), and the models were evaluated and applied to the validation set. A total of 5987 ions were observed in the groups. The multivariate statistical model described more than 82% of the data variability. Samples of the positive group were correctly identified with 100% probability and negative samples with 70%. The culture media used for embryos that were positive or negative for successful implantation showed specific biochemical signatures that could be detected in a fast, simple, and noninvasive way by ESI-MS. To our knowledge, this is the first report that uses MS fingerprinting to predict human embryo implantation potential. This biochemical profile could help the selection of the most viable embryo, improving single-embryo transfer and thus eliminating the risk and undesirable outcomes of multiple pregnancies.
Life‐history traits and landscape characteristics predict macro‐moth responses to forest fragmentation
Authors: Slade Eleanor M. , Merckx Thomas , Riutta Terhi , Bebber Daniel P. , Redhead David , Riordan Philip , Macdonald David W.
Published: February 2013

How best to manage forest patches, mitigate the consequences of forest fragmentation, and enable landscape permeability are key questions facing conservation scientists and managers. Many temperate forests have become increasingly fragmented, resulting in reduced interior forest habitat, increased edge habitats, and reduced connectivity. Using a citizen science landscape‐scale mark–release–recapture study on 87 macro‐moth species, we investigated how both life‐history traits and landscape characteristics predicted macro‐moth responses to forest fragmentation. Wingspan, wing shape, adult feeding, and larval feeding guild predicted macro‐moth mobility, although the predictive power of wingspan and wing shape depended on the species' affinity to the forest. Solitary trees and small fragments functioned as “stepping stones,” especially when their landscape connectivity was increased, by being positioned within hedgerows or within a favorable matrix. Mobile forest specialists were most affected by forest fragmentation: despite their high intrinsic dispersal capability, these species were confined mostly to the largest of the forest patches due to their strong affinity for the forest habitat, and were also heavily dependent on forest connectivity in order to cross the agricultural matrix. Forest fragments need to be larger than five hectares and to have interior forest more than 100 m from the edge in order to sustain populations of forest specialists. Our study provides new insights into the movement patterns of a functionally important insect group, with implications for the landscape‐scale management of forest patches within agricultural landscapes.
Treatment of Varus Deformities of the Lower Limbs in Patients with Achondroplasia and Hypochondroplasia
Authors: Kaissi Ali Al , Farr Sebastian , Ganger Rudolf , Hofstaetter Jochen G , Klaushofer Klaus , Grill Franz
Published: February 2013

Angular deformities of the lower limbs are a common clinical problem encountered in pediatric orthopaedic practices particularly in patients with osteochondrodysplasias. The varus deformity is more common than the valgus deformity in achondroplasia and hypochondroplasia patients because of the unusual growth of the fibulae than that of the tibiae. We retrospectively reviewed six patients (four patients with achondroplasia and two patients with hypochondroplsia) with relevant limb deformities due to the above-mentioned entities. All patients manifested significant varus deformity of the lower limbs. Detailed phenotypic characterization, radiologic and genetic testing was carried out as baseline diagnostic tool. We described the re-alignment procedures, which have been applied accordingly. Therefore, bilateral multi-level procedures, multi-apical planning and limb lengthening have been successfully applied. While recognition of the underlying syndromic association in patients who are manifesting angular deformities is the baseline for proper orthopaedic management, this paper demonstrates how to evaluate and treat these complex patients.
Exercise Training and Quality of Life in Individuals With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Myers Valerie H. , McVay Megan A. , Brashear Meghan M. , Johannsen Neil M. , Swift Damon L. , Kramer Kimberly , Harris Melissa Nauta , Johnson William D. , Earnest Conrad P. , Church Timothy S.
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE

To establish whether exercise improves quality of life (QOL) in individuals with type 2 diabetes and which exercise modalities are involved.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Health Benefits of Aerobic and Resistance Training in individuals with type 2 Diabetes (HART-D; n = 262) was a 9-month exercise study comparing the effects of aerobic training, resistance training, or a combination of resistance and aerobic training versus a nonexercise control group on hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) in sedentary individuals with type 2 diabetes. This study is an ancillary analysis that examined changes in QOL after exercise training using the Short Form-36 Health Survey questionnaire compared across treatment groups and with U.S. national norms.

RESULTS

The ancillary sample (n = 173) had high baseline QOL compared with U.S. national norms. The QOL physical component subscale (PCS) and the general health (GH) subscale were improved by all three exercise training conditions compared with the control group condition (resistance: PCS, P = 0.005; GH, P = 0.003; aerobic: PCS, P = 0.001; GH, P = 0.024; combined: PCS, P = 0.015; GH, P = 0.024). The resistance training group had the most beneficial changes in bodily pain (P = 0.026), whereas physical functioning was most improved in the aerobic and combined condition groups (P = 0.025 and P = 0.03, respectively). The changes in the mental component score did not differ between the control group and any of the exercise groups (all P > 0.05). The combined training condition group had greater gains than the aerobic training condition group in the mental component score (P = 0.004), vitality (P = 0.031), and mental health (P = 0.008) and greater gains in vitality compared with the control group (P = 0.021).

CONCLUSIONS

Exercise improves QOL in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Combined aerobic/resistance exercise produces greater benefit in some QOL domains.
Effects of Axonal Ion Channel Dysfunction on Quality of Life in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Kwai Natalie C.G. , Arnold Ria , Wickremaarachchi Chathupa , Lin Cindy S.-Y. , Poynten Ann M. , Kiernan Matthew C. , Krishnan Arun V.
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE

Pharmacological agents for diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DN) target a number of mechanisms, including sodium channel function and γ-aminobutyric acid–minergic processes. At present, prescription is undertaken on a trial-and-error basis, leading to prolonged medication trials and greater healthcare costs. Nerve-excitability techniques are a novel method of assessing axonal ion channel function in the clinical setting. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of axonal ion channel dysfunction on neuropathy-specific quality-of-life (QoL) measures in DN.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Fifty-four patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus underwent comprehensive neurologic assessment, nerve-conduction studies, and nerve-excitability assessment. Neuropathy severity was assessed using the Total Neuropathy Score. Neuropathy-specific QoL was assessed using a DN-specific QoL questionnaire (Neuropathy-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire [NeuroQoL]). Glycosylated hemoglobin and BMI were recorded in all patients.

RESULTS

NeuroQoL scores indicated significant QoL impairment (mean 9.08 ± 5.93). Strength-duration time constant (SDTC), an excitability parameter reflecting sodium channel function, was strongly correlated with QoL scores (r = 0.545; P < 0.005). SDTC was prolonged in 48.6% of patients who experienced neuropathic symptoms. A significant correlation was also noted between SDTC and neuropathy severity (r = 0.29; P < 0.05). This relationship was strengthened when looking specifically at patients with clinically graded neuropathy (r = 0.366; P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The current study has demonstrated an association between markers of sodium channel function and QoL in DN. The study demonstrates that excitability techniques may identify patients in whom altered sodium channel function may be the dominant abnormality. The findings suggest that excitability techniques may have a role in clinical decision making regarding neuropathic treatment prescription.
A Robust Preconditioned MinRes Solver
for Time-periodic Eddy Current Problems
Authors: Kolmbauer Michael , Langer Ulrich
Published: February 2013

This work is devoted to fast and parameter-robust iterative solvers for
frequency domain finite element equations, approximating the time-periodic eddy current
problem with multiharmonic or time-periodic excitations in time. We construct a
preconditioned MinRes solver for the frequency domain equations, that is robust with
respect to the discretization parameters as well as all involved “bad” parameters like
the conductivity, the reluctivity and possible regularization parameters.
Generation of Molecular Shape Diverstiy. From Privileged Scaffolds to Diverted Total Synthesis
Authors: Dai Wei-Min
Published: February 2013

Molecular shape is a presentation of a molecule’s three-dimensional structure and its volume of space and surface electrostatic potential map collectively define the function, e. g. as a modulator or probe to biological targets. Molecular shape diversity for compound libraries with multiple scaffolds (rich skeletal diversity) is recognized as a prerequisite for discovering broad bioactivity. Established strategies and methodologies for diversity-oriented synthesis (DOS) are useful for generating molecular shape diversity by synthesizing natural product-like compounds. On the other hand, diverted total synthesis (DTS) offers natural products and analogues with a higher degree of structural diversity and complexity. Examples of DOS of privileged heterocycles and DTS of amphidinolide T marine macrolides from the author’s laboratories are illustrated.
Normalized finite fractional differences: Computational and accuracy breakthroughs
Authors: Stanisławski Rafał , Latawiec Krzysztof J.
Published: February 2013

This paper presents a series of new results in finite and infinite-memory modeling of discrete-time fractional differences. The introduced normalized finite fractional difference is shown to properly approximate its fractional difference original, in particular in terms of the steady-state properties. A stability analysis is also presented and a recursive computation algorithm is offered for finite fractional differences. A thorough analysis of computational and accuracy aspects is culminated with the introduction of a perfect finite fractional difference and, in particular, a powerful adaptive finite fractional difference, whose excellent performance is illustrated in simulation examples.
The island model as a Markov dynamic system
Authors: Schaefer Robert , Byrski Aleksander , Smołka Maciej
Published: February 2013

Parallel multi-deme genetic algorithms are especially advantageous because they allow reducing the time of computations and can perform a much broader search than single-population ones. However, their formal analysis does not seem to have been studied exhaustively enough. In this paper we propose a mathematical framework describing a wide class of island-like strategies as a stationary Markov chain. Our approach uses extensively the modeling principles introduced by Vose, Rudolph and their collaborators. An original and crucial feature of the framework we propose is the mechanism of inter-deme agent operation synchronization. It is important from both a practical and a theoretical point of view. We show that under a mild assumption the resulting Markov chain is ergodic and the sequence of the related sampling measures converges to some invariant measure. The asymptotic guarantee of success is also obtained as a simple issue of ergodicity. Moreover, if the cardinality of each island population grows to infinity, then the sequence of the limit invariant measures contains a weakly convergent subsequence. The formal description of the island model obtained for the case of solving a single-objective problem can also be extended to the multi-objective case
Regulation of p53 by siRNA in radiation treated cells: Simulation studies
Authors: Puszyński Krzysztof , Jaksik Roman , Świerniak Andrzej
Published: February 2013

Ionizing radiation activates a large variety of intracellular mechanisms responsible for maintaining appropriate cell functionality or activation of apoptosis which eliminates damaged cells from the population. The mechanism of such induced cellular death is widely used in radiotherapy in order to eliminate cancer cells, although in some cases it is highly limited by increased cellular radio-resistance due to aberrations in molecular regulation mechanisms of malignant cells. Despite the positive correlation between the radiation dose and the number of apoptotic cancer cells, radiation has to be limited because of extensive side effects. Therefore, additional control signals whose role will be to maximize the cancer cells death-ratio while minimizing the radiation dose and by that the potential side effects are worth considering. In this work we present the results of simulation studies showing possibilities of single gene regulation by small interfering RNA (siRNA) that can increase radio-sensitivity of malignant cells showing aberrations in the p53 signaling pathway, responsible for DNA damage-dependant apoptosis. By blocking the production of the p53 inhibitor Mdm2, radiation treated cancer cells are pushed into the apoptotic state on a level normally achievable only with high radiation doses. The presented approach, based on a simulation study originating from experimentally validated regulatory events, concerns one of the basic problems of radiotherapy dosage limitations, which, as will be shown, can be partially avoided by using the appropriate siRNA based control mechanism.
Provenance analysis of the Permo-Carboniferous fluvial sandstones of the southern part of the Boskovice Basin and the Zöbing Area (Czech Republic, Austria): implications for paleogeographical reconstructions of the post-Variscan collapse basins
Authors: Nehyba Slavomír , Roetzel Reinhard , Maštera Lubomír
Published: February 2013

The provenance analyses of Permo-Carboniferous fluvial sandstones of the southern part of the Boskovice Basin and the Zöbing area are based on a wide spectrum of analytical techniques (petrography, heavy mineral assemblages, chemistry of garnet, rutile and spinel, zircon study, major and trace elements). The studied sandstones are poorly sorted and reveal a relatively immature composition implying short distance transport, rapid deposition, a high-relief source area, mainly physical weathering and the minor role of chemical weathering. Different source areas for the Boskovice Basin and the Zöbing area were proved. The Zöbing material was predominantly derived from crystalline units, mainly formed by metamorphic complexes, although the portions of magmatic and volcanic material were significant. The source area is supposed to be located in the Moldanubian Unit. The Boskovice Basin deposits, on the other hand, seem to be mainly derived from metamorphic complexes, corresponding especially to the Moravian Unit, with a relatively wider spectrum of metamorphites, together with the derivation of the detritus from pre-existing sedimentary rocks (especially from Moravo- Silesian Paleozoic deposits/Drahany Culm unit). The transport direction in the basin was more complex, both from the west and east. These results did not confirm the possibility of communication between the Boskovice Basin and the Zöbing area during the Late Paleozoic. The existence of “colinear” marginally offset half grabens with predominant transversal sources is here hypothesized. The general heavy mineral evolution in time does not indicate the successive exhumation of a simple structured orogen but may be interpreted as differences in the extent of the source areas.
Tectonic control on the sedimentary record of the central Moldavidian Basin (Eastern Carpathians, Romania)
Authors: Francesco Guerrera , Manuel Martín Martín , José A. Martín-Pérez , Iván Martín-Rojas , Crina Miclăuş , Francisco Serrano
Published: February 2013

The sedimentary record of the Tarcău and Vrancea Nappes, belonging to the flysch accretionary zone of the Eastern Carpathians (Eastern Carpathian Outer Flysch), registered Cretaceous-Miocene events during the evolution of the Moldavidian Basin. Our biostratigraphic data indicate that the deposits studied are younger than previously reported. The comparison of sedimentary record studied with the Late Cretaceous-Early Miocene global eustatic curve indicates that eustatic factor played a secondary role, after the tectonic one. Four main stages of different processes influenced by tectonics are recognized in the sedimentary record: (1) Campanian-Maastrichtian-earliest Paleocene; (2) latest Ypresian-Lutetian; (3) late Chattian-earliest Aquitanian, and (4) late Aquitanian-early Burdigalian. The late Chattian- earliest Aquitanian and late Aquitanian-early Burdigalian records indicate a high tectonic influence. The first event was related to the foredeep stage of the sedimentary domain studied, and the second one to the deformation stage of the same domain. The sedimentary records of tectonic influence recognized during these stages are useful tools for geodynamic reconstructions. The stratigraphic correlation of Tarcău and Vrancea sedimentary records are used
Developments in Education and International Migrations in New Member States of the EU
Authors: Kultalahti Olli
Published: February 2013

The paper examines the development of education systems and international migrations in selected new Member States. The countries are Estonia, the Czech Republic and Slovakia. The paper focuses on various elements in the development of education systems making people able to cope with competition on global labour markets. The outcomes of these developments largely regulate the supply of labour and consequently its international demand. Some statistics on international migration and integration of migrants in global labour markets are presented. The aim of this paper is to raise questions about relevant issues to be paid attention to in studies focusing on education and international migrations rather than to try to give any straightforward solutions.
The macro- and microelemental content of Pinus sylvestris L. and Pinus nigra J.F. Am. needles in Cladonio-Pinetum habitat of the Słowiński National Park
Authors: Parzych Agnieszka , Sobisz Zbigniew
Published: February 2013

The study of pine needles was carried out in 2005 within the confines of the Słowiński National Park (SNP). In soil from Cladonio-Pinetum habitat, most macro- and microelements accumulate in the organic sub-horizons (Ol and Ofh), however the nutrient content of the mineral horizons was very low. Needles of Pinus sylvestris (Ps) were characterized by higher content ofN, P, K, Ca, and Fe in comparison to needles of Pinus nigra (Pn); whereas needles of Pn were higher in content of Mg, Zn, Cu and Mn than those of Ps. Two-year-old needles contained on average more Ca, Mn, Cu, Fe then one-year-old needles for both species. A Mann Whitney test confirmed statistically-significant differences in the dynamics of P, K, Mg, Zn and Mn concentrations both in 1-year-old and 2-year-old needles examined in Cladonio-Pinetum. The greatest differences between research forests stands of Pinus sylvestris and Pinus nigra were in the sum contents of elements accumulated in the needles. In the needles of Pinus nigra there was notably higher accumulation of P, K, Ca, Mg and Mn than in the needles of Pinus sylvestris.
Psychological Stress – Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms
Authors: Feodorova Yana N. , Sarafian Victoria S.
Published: February 2013

Pathophysiological regulation of the stress response involves a number of complex interactions
at the organismal, cellular and molecular levels.

A salient feature of the stress response is the activation of the hypothalamic-pituitaryadrenal
axis. Molecular studies of this phenomenon have found a number of genes which
are differentially expressed in stressed individuals and control subjects. The transcription
factor NF-κB controls many of these genes, which is evidence of the key role it plays in the
cellular stress response. Stress upregulates a number of genes such as the transcription factor
genes that control cell growth, chromatin structure, cell cycle activation and enzymes
involved in the biosynthesis of nucleic acids and proteins. The genes that are down-regulated
in stress are cell cycle inhibitors, apoptosis related genes, antiproliferative cytokines
and Apo J, the NF-κB inhibitor.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder which develops as a reaction
to an extreme traumatic event but only in a small proportion of the population. It is still
unknown what molecular mechanisms trigger its progression. Both genetic and epigenetic
factors play a role in this condition. Although the environmental component is necessary
for developing PTSD, it has been suggested that 30% of the variance in PTSD symptoms
could be attributed to genetic influences. Utilizing genome wide association studies, it
would be possible to identify new genes involved in PTSD development and elucidate the
molecular pathways which are dysregulated. This will facilitate the identification of novel
biomarkers that may help in PTSD diagnosis and treatment.