bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interleukin‐1β and microRNA‐146a in an immature rat model and children with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Omran Ahmed , Peng Jing , Zhang Ciliu , Xiang Qiu‐Lian , Xue Jinfeng , Gan Na , Kong Huimin , Yin Fei
Published: June 2012

Purpose:  Increasing evidence indicates that neuroinflammation plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE). The aim of this study was to investigate the dynamic expression of interleukin (IL)–1β as a proinflammatory cytokine and microRNA (miR)‐146a as a posttranscriptional inflammation‐associated microRNA (miRNA) in the hippocampi of an immature rat model and children with MTLE.

Methods:  To study the expression of IL‐1β and miR‐146a, we performed a reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, and real‐time quantitative PCR on the hippocampi of immature rats at 11 days of age. Expression was monitored in the acute, latent, and chronic stages of disease (2 h and 3 and 8 weeks after induction of lithium‐pilocarpine status epilepticus, respectively), and in control hippocampal tissues corresponding to the same timeframes. Similar expression methods were applied to hippocampi obtained from children with MTLE and normal controls.

Key Findings:  The expression of IL‐1β and miR‐146a in both children and immature rats with MTLE differs according to the stage of MTLE development. Both IL‐1β and miR‐146a are significantly up‐regulated, but in opposite ways: IL‐1β expression is highest in the acute stage, when expression of miR‐146a is at its lowest level; miR‐146a expression is highest in the latent stage, when IL‐1β expression is at its lowest level. Both IL‐1β and miR‐146a are up‐regulated in the chronic stage, but not as much as in the other stages.

Significance:  Our study is the first to focus on the expression of miR‐146a in the immature rat model of lithium‐pilocarpine MTLE and in children with MTLE. We have detected that the expression of proinflammatory cytokine IL‐1β and posttranscriptional inflammation‐associated miR‐146a is variable depending on the disease stage. Furthermore, both IL‐1β and miR‐146a are up‐regulated in immature rats and children with MTLE. Our findings elucidate the role of inflammation in the pathogenesis of MTLE in the immature rat model and children. Therefore, modulation of the IL‐1β–miR‐146a axis may be a novel therapeutic target in the treatment of MTLE.
CASK aberrations in male patients with Ohtahara syndrome and cerebellar hypoplasia
Authors: Saitsu Hirotomo , Kato Mitsuhiro , Osaka Hitoshi , Moriyama Nobuko , Horita Hideki , Nishiyama Kiyomi , Yoneda Yuriko , Kondo Yukiko , Tsurusaki Yoshinori , Doi Hiroshi , Miyake Noriko , Hayasaka Kiyoshi , Matsumoto Naomichi
Published: June 2012

Purpose:  Ohtahara syndrome (OS) is one of the most severe and earliest forms of epilepsy. STXBP1 and ARX mutations have been reported in patients with OS. In this study, we aimed to identify new genes involved in OS by copy number analysis and whole exome sequencing.

Methods:  Copy number analysis and whole exome sequencing were performed in 34 and 12 patients with OS, respectively. Fluorescence in situ hybridization, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and breakpoint‐specific and reverse‐transcriptase PCR analyses were performed to characterize a deletion. Immunoblotting using lymphoblastoid cells was done to examine expression of CASK protein.

Key Findings:  Genomic microarray analysis revealed a 111‐kb deletion involving exon 2 of CASK at Xp11.4 in a male patient. The deletion was inherited from his mother, who was somatic mosaic for the deletion. Sequencing of the mutant transcript expressed in lymphoblastoid cell lines derived from the patient confirmed the deletion of exon 2 in the mutant transcript with a premature stop codon. Whole exome sequencing identified another male patient who was harboring a c.1A>G mutation in CASK, which occurred de novo. Both patients showed severe cerebellar hypoplasia along with other congenital anomalies such as micrognathia, a high arched palate, and finger anomalies. No CASK protein was detected by immunoblotting in lymphoblastoid cells derived from two patients.

Significance:  The detected mutations are highly likely to cause the loss of function of the CASK protein in male individuals. CASK mutations have been reported in patients with intellectual disability with microcephaly and pontocerebellar hypoplasia or congenital nystagmus, and those with FG syndrome. Our data expand the clinical spectrum of CASK mutations to include OS with cerebellar hypoplasia and congenital anomalies at the most severe end.
Selective vaginal breech delivery at term – still an option
Authors: TOIVONEN ELLI , PALOMÄKI OUTI , HUHTALA HEINI , UOTILA JUKKA
Published: June 2012

Objective. To compare the neonatal outcome between planned vaginal or planned cesarean section (CS) breech delivery and planned vaginal vertex delivery at term with singleton fetuses. Design. A cohort study. Setting. Delivery Unit, Tampere University Hospital, Finland, with 5200 annual deliveries. Population. The term breech deliveries over a period of five years (January 2004 to January 2009), a total of 751 breech deliveries, and 257 vertex controls. Methods. The data were collected from the mother's medical records, including a summary of the newborn. In the case of neonatal health problems, the pediatric records were also examined. Main outcome measures. Maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity as defined in the Term Breech Trial. Low Apgar scores or umbilical cord pH as secondary end‐points. Results. There was no neonatal mortality. Severe morbidity was rare in all groups, with no differences between groups. The Apgar scores at one minute were lower in the planned vaginal delivery group compared with the other groups, but there was no difference at the age of five minutes. Significantly more infants in the vaginal delivery group had a cord pH < 7.05. There was one maternal death due to a complicated CS in the planned CS group and none in the other groups. Mothers in the planned CS group suffered significantly more often from massive bleeding and needed transfusions. Conclusions. Vaginal delivery remains an acceptable option for breech delivery in selected cases.
Risk factors for blood transfusion at delivery in Finland
Authors: JAKOBSSON MAIJA , GISSLER MIKA , TAPPER ANNA‐MAIJA
Published: June 2012

Objective. To examine the prevalence and risk factors for blood transfusion during delivery. Design. Register‐based retrospective cohort study from Finland. Setting. National Medical Birth Register data during 2006–2008. Sample. A total of 171 731 women having singleton deliveries, of whom 3394 (1.98%) received blood transfusion. Methods. We calculated odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) by multivariate logistic regression to adjust for confounders related to maternal background and mode of delivery. Main outcome measures. Blood transfusion rates by risk factors. Results. Blood transfusion rate during labor increased slightly, from 1.83% in 2006 to 2.27% in 2008 (p < 0.001), during the study period. The highest rate, almost 4%, was reported in central hospitals. Advanced maternal age and primiparity predisposed to blood transfusion. A previous cesarean section increased these rates also in subsequent vaginal delivery (2.64%) compared with women who had vaginal deliveries only (0.86%, OR 3.14, 95% CI 2.65–3.72). Induction of labor almost doubled the risk for blood transfusion (adjusted OR 1.74, 95% CI 1.60–1.89). All instrumental vaginal deliveries (adjusted OR 2.46, 95% CI 2.25–2.69) and any cesarean sections (adjusted OR 1.80, 95% CI 1.66–1.96) increased this risk. Delivery of a large‐for‐gestational age newborn increased the blood transfusion risk over twofold. Conclusions. As previous cesarean section includes an increased risk for blood transfusion, even in subsequent deliveries, it is essential to consider the mode of labor carefully. The blood transfusion rate was the highest in central hospitals, suggesting differences in blood transfusion practice.
Clinical, radiographic, microbiological, and immunological outcomes of flapped vs. flapless dental implants: a prospective randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Tsoukaki Marina , Kalpidis Christos D. R. , Sakellari Dimitra , Tsalikis Lazaros , Mikrogiorgis George , Konstantinidis Antonis
Published: June 2012

Objectives

The objective of this study was to compare the placement of flapped vs. flapless dental implants utilizing clinical, radiographic, microbiological, and immunological parameters.

Material and methods

A total of 20 patients received 30 dental implants following a one‐stage protocol. The patients were randomly assigned into two study groups: control group with 15 flapped implants and test group with 15 flapless implants. Follow‐up examinations were carried out after 1, 2, 6, and 12 weeks. Clinical recordings, sulcular fluid sampling, microbiological analysis, and digital subtraction radiography were utilized to compare the two surgical approaches.

Results

Peri‐implant sulcus depth was significantly greater in flapped implants at both 6 and 12 postsurgical weeks (P < 0.001). Flapped implants showed crestal bone loss (0.29 ± 0.06 mm), whereas no bone resorption was detected around flapless implants. Matrix metalloproteinase‐8 values were higher to a statistically significant level in the control group at 1 (P = 0.003) and 6 weeks (P = 0.007) after placement. In the test group, the presence of
Porphyromonas gingivalis was significantly higher at the 2nd postoperative week (P = 0.005), whereas the counts of
Tannerella forsythia were significantly elevated at the 1st (P = 0.005), 2nd (P = 0.001), and 12th (P = 0.002) postoperative weeks, possibly indicating an earlier formation and maturation of the peri‐implant sulcus. Patients reported more pain after flapped implant placement.

Conclusions

Flapless implant placement yielded improved clinical, radiographic, and immunological outcomes compared with flapped implantation. In addition, patients seem to better withstand flapless implant placement.
NEX‐TRAP, a Novel Method for In Vivo Analysis of Nuclear Export of Proteins
Authors: Raschbichler Verena , Lieber Diana , Bailer Susanne M.
Published: June 2012

Transport of proteins between cytoplasm and nucleus is mediated by transport factors of the importin α‐ and β‐families and occurs along a gradient of the small GTPase Ran. To date, in vivo analysis as well as prediction of protein nuclear export remain tedious and difficult. We generated a novel bipartite assay called NEX‐TRAP (Nuclear EXport Trapped by RAPamycin) for in vivo analysis of protein nuclear export. The assay is based on the rapamycin‐induced dimerization of the modules FRB (FK506‐rapamycin (FR)‐binding domain) and FKBP (FK506‐binding protein‐12): a potential nuclear export cargo is fused to FRB, to EYFP for direct visualization as well as to an SV40‐derived nuclear localization signal (NLS) for constitutive nuclear import. An integral membrane protein that resides at the trans Golgi network (TGN) is fused to a cytoplasmically exposed FKBP and serves as reporter. EYFP‐NLS‐FRB fusion proteins with export activity accumulate in the nucleus at steady state but continuously shuttle between nucleus and cytoplasm. Rapamycin‐induced dimerization of FRB and FKBP at the TGN traps the shuttling protein outside of the nucleus, making nuclear export permanent. Using several example cargoes, we show that the NEX‐TRAP is superior to existing assays owing to its ease of use, its sensitivity and accuracy. Analysis of large numbers of export cargoes is facilitated by recombinational cloning. The NEX‐TRAP holds the promise of applicability in automated fluorescence imaging for systematic analysis of nuclear export, thereby improving in silico prediction of nuclear export sequences.
Multi‐scale modeling of GMP differentiation based on single‐cell genealogies
Authors: Marr Carsten , Strasser Michael , Schwarzfischer Michael , Schroeder Timm , Theis Fabian J.
Published: June 2012

Hematopoiesis is often pictured as a hierarchy of branching decisions, giving rise to all mature blood cell types from stepwise differentiation of a single cell, the hematopoietic stem cell. Various aspects of this process have been modeled using various experimental and theoretical techniques on different scales. Here we integrate the more common population‐based approach with a single‐cell resolved molecular differentiation model to study the possibility of inferring mechanistic knowledge of the differentiation process. We focus on a sub‐module of hematopoiesis: differentiation of granulocyte–monocyte progenitors (GMPs) to granulocytes or monocytes. Within a branching process model, we infer the differentiation probability of GMPs from the experimentally quantified heterogeneity of colony assays under permissive conditions where both granulocytes and monocytes can emerge. We compare the predictions with the differentiation probability in genealogies determined from single‐cell time‐lapse microscopy. In contrast to the branching process model, we found that the differentiation probability as determined by differentiation marker onset increases with the generation of the cell within the genealogy. To study this feature from a molecular perspective, we established a stochastic toggle switch model, in which the intrinsic lineage decision is executed using two antagonistic transcription factors. We identified parameter regimes that allow for both time‐dependent and time‐independent differentiation probabilities. Finally, we infer parameters for which the model matches experimentally observed differentiation probabilities via approximate Bayesian computing. These parameters suggest different timescales in the dynamics of granulocyte and monocyte differentiation. Thus we provide a multi‐scale picture of cell differentiation in murine GMPs, and illustrate the need for single‐cell time‐resolved observations of cellular decisions.
Multiple generation effects of high temperature on the development and fecundity of Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) biotype B
Authors: Guo Jian‐Ying , Cong Lin , Wan Fang‐Hao
Published: June 2012

Insects are ectotherms and their ability to resist temperature stress is limited. The immediate effects of sub‐lethal heat stress on insects are well documented, but longer‐term effects of such stresses are rarely reported. In this study, survival, development and reproduction of the whitefly, Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) biotype B, were compared over five consecutive generations at 27, 31 and 35 °C and for one generation at 37 °C. Both temperature and generation significantly affected the fitness of the whitefly. These impacts were more dramatic with increasing generations and temperatures. Among the experimental temperatures, the most favorable for development and reproduction were 27 °C and 31 °C. At 27 °C, survival, development and fecundity were all stable over these five generations. At 31 °C, immature survival rate was the highest in the fifth generation, but female fecundities decreased in the fourth and fifth generations. At 35 °C, egg hatching rate, immature survival rate and female fecundity decreased significantly in the fourth and fifth generations. At 37 °C, survival of B. tabaci was not adversely affected, but female fecundity at 37 °C was less than 10% of that at 27 °C or 31 °C. These results demonstrate that the lethal high temperature for B. tabaci is over 37 °C, and the whitefly population continued expanding in the five generations at 35 °C. The ability of B. tabaci biotype B to survive high temperature stress will play an important role in its population extension under global warming.
Photoinduced Oxidation of Sterically Hindered Amines in Acetonitrile Solutions and Titania Suspensions (An EPR Study)
Authors: Barbieriková Zuzana , Mihalíková Mária , Brezová Vlasta
Published: June 2012

The reactions of sterically hindered amines (SHA) were investigated in acetonitrile solutions and TiO2 suspensions upon exposure to monochromatic radiation, λ = 365 nm, by means of in situ EPR spectroscopy. The formation of singlet oxygen, as one of the possible oxidation agents for SHA, in these systems is affected significantly by solvent used and the experimental conditions. Experiments in homogeneous media evidenced alternative pathways for the SHA oxidation with a variety reactive oxygen species involved. In anhydrous acetonitrile solutions containing KO2, the SHA oxidation was negligible not only in the dark but also on continuous exposure. However, the presence of water, even at low concentrations, led to the transformation of O2•− to singlet oxygen and hydrogen peroxide, which served as a source of hydroxyl radicals. These species participated in oxidation of SHA resulting in the generation of nitroxide radicals. To investigate the influence of different competitive reactions of SHA with other ROS formed upon TiO2 photoexcitation, a series of experiments using different additives (e.g. KO2, H2O2, NaN3, dimethylsulfoxide, methanol as organic cosolvents) under air or argon were performed. The detailed analysis of paramagnetic intermediates formed upon the irradiation of the studied systems was accomplished using EPR spin trapping technique.
Near‐IR Absorbing Solar Cell Sensitized With Bacterial Photosynthetic Membranes
Authors: Woronowicz Kamil , Ahmed Saquib , Biradar Archana A. , Biradar Ankush V. , Birnie Dunbar P. , Asefa Tewodros , Niederman Robert A.
Published: June 2012

Current interest in natural photosynthesis as a blueprint for solar energy conversion has led to the development of a biohybrid photovoltaic cell in which bacterial photosynthetic membrane vesicles (chromatophores) have been adsorbed to a gold electrode surface in conjunction with biological electrolytes (quinone [Q] and cytochrome c; Magis et al. [2010] Biochim. Biophys. Acta1798, 637–645). Since light‐driven current generation was dependent on an open circuit potential, we have tested whether this external potential could be replaced in an appropriately designed dye‐sensitized solar cell (DSSC). Herein, we show that a DSSC system in which the organic light‐harvesting dye is replaced by robust chromatophores from Rhodospirillum rubrum, together with Q and cytochrome c as electrolytes, provides band energies between consecutive interfaces that facilitate a unidirectional flow of electrons. Solar I–V testing revealed a relatively high Isc (short‐circuit current) of 25 μA cm−2 and the cell was capable of generating a current utilizing abundant near‐IR photons (maximum at ca 880 nm) with greater than eight‐fold higher energy conversion efficiency than white light. These studies represent a powerful demonstration of the photoexcitation properties of a biological system in a closed solid‐state device and its successful implementation in a functioning solar cell.
A Mouse Model for Fetal Maternal Stem Cell Transfer during Ischemic Cardiac Injury
Authors: Kara Rina J. , Bolli Paola , Matsunaga Iwao , Tanweer Omar , Altman Perry , Chaudhry Hina W.
Published: June 2012

Fetal cells enter the maternal circulation during pregnancies and can persist in blood and tissues for decades, creating a state of physiologic microchimerism. Microchimerism refers to acquisition of cells from another individual and can be due to bidirectional cell traffic between mother and fetus during pregnancy. Peripartum cardiomyopathy, a rare cardiac disorder associated with high mortality rates has the highest recovery rate amongst all etiologies of heart failure although the reason is unknown. Collectively, these observations led us to hypothesize that fetal cells enter the maternal circulation and may be recruited to the sites of myocardial disease or injury. The ability to genetically modify mice makes them an ideal system for studying the phenomenon of microchimerism in cardiac disease. Described here is a mouse model for ischemic cardiac injury during pregnancy designed to study microchimerism. Wild‐type virgin female mice mated with eGFP male mice underwent ligation of the left anterior descending artery to induce a myocardial infarction at gestation day 12. We demonstrate the selective homing of eGFP cells to the site of cardiac injury without such homing to noninjured tissues suggesting the presence of precise signals sensed by fetal cells enabling them to target diseased myocardium specifically. Clin Trans Sci 2012; Volume 5: 321–328
Fyn Kinases Play a Critical Role in Neuronal Apoptosis Induced by Oxygen and Glucose Deprivation or Amyloid‐β Peptide Treatment
Authors: Du Cai‐Ping , Tan Ran , Hou Xiao‐Yu
Published: June 2012

Aims

Src family protein tyrosine kinases (SrcPTKs) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of brain ischemia and Alzheimer's disease (AD). In this study, we investigated whether Src and Fyn kinases, two major members of SrcPTKs in the brain, have distinct roles in the oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD) and amyloid‐β peptide (Aβ)‐induced neuronal apoptosis.

Methods and results

The DAPI staining and caspase‐3 activation analysis showed that small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) knockdown of Src or Fyn attenuated SH‐SY5Y cells apoptosis after OGD and Aβ treatment. Fyn knockdown had a more potent neuroprotective effect than Src knockdown, suggesting a principal pathological significance of Fyn in brain ischemia and AD. Previously, we reported that brain ischemia promotes the phosphorylation of postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD‐95) at tyrosine 523 (Y523), which is associated with postsynaptic mechanisms of excitotoxicity. Here, immunoblot analysis indicated that not only OGD but also Aβ incubation increased the PSD‐95Y523 phosphorylation. Src knockdown, especially Fyn knockdown, significantly inhibited such phosphorylation.

Conclusion

Fyn mediates PSD‐95Y523 phosphorylation, which may be responsible for the excitotoxic signal cascades and neuronal apoptosis in brain ischemia and Aβ neurotoxicity. Fyn is a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of ischemic stroke and AD.
Seeking a Rapprochement Between Anthropology and the Cognitive Sciences: A Problem‐Driven Approach
Authors: Whitehouse Harvey , Cohen Emma
Published: June 2012

Beller, Bender, and Medin question the necessity of including social anthropology within the cognitive sciences. We argue that there is great scope for fruitful rapprochement while agreeing that there are obstacles (even if we might wish to debate some of those specifically identified by Beller and colleagues). We frame the general problem differently, however: not in terms of the problem of reconciling disciplines and research cultures, but rather in terms of the prospects for collaborative deployment of expertise (methodological and theoretical) in problem‐driven research. For the purposes of illustration, our focus in this article is on the evolution of cooperation.
Cultural Psychology as a Bridge Between Anthropology and Cognitive Science
Authors: Fryberg Stephanie A.
Published: June 2012

The theory and methods of cultural psychology begin with the assumption that psychological processes are socioculturally and historically grounded. As such, they offer a new approach for understanding the diversity of human functioning because they (a) question the presumed neutrality of the majority group perspective; (b) take the target’s point‐of‐view (i.e., what it means to be a person in a particular context); (c) assume that there is more than one viable way of being a competent or effective person; and (d) provide a road map for understanding and reducing social inequities. As illustrated in this essay, a cultural psychological approach provides a bridge between anthropology and the cognitive sciences, and in so doing it offers an alternative set of explanations and interventions for group differences.
Floral reward presentation favored the expression of male function in the pollen‐only flower Melastoma malabathricum
Authors: LUO Zhong‐Lai , CHEN Shi , ZHANG Dian‐Xiang
Published: June 2012

Abstract  Animal‐pollinated plant species modulate the presentation of pollinator rewards to maximize reproductive success. In plants providing pollen as the only reward for pollinators, it is usually difficult to unravel the dual roles of reward presentation and the realization of male and female functions (pollen removal and deposition). Exploiting the two types of anther in the androecia of Melastoma malabathricum L., we examined whether the removal of pollen for reward is regulated primarily to favor male function or female function. Pollen removal by carpenter bees from the feeding and pollination anthers, as well as pollen deposition on the stigmas, were quantified during anthesis of M. malabathricum. There was no significant difference in pollen removal rates from the feeding and pollination anthers of M. malabathricum between the onset of anthesis and flower wilting. The stigmatic pollen loads exceeded the ovule number after three sonication bouts, and female function was satisfied earlier than male function. The results support the hypothesis that the presentation of pollination reward in this species is regulated primarily to favor the expression of male function, rather than female function, in agreement with the pollen‐donation hypothesis. A cooperative relationship between the feeding and pollination anthers was demonstrated in heterantherous flowers, which optimizes the balance in investments between pollinator rewards and “functional pollen” for gene transfer.
THE EFFECT OF ACCESS TO IMPROVED WATER SOURCES AND SANITATION ON ECONOMIC EFFICIENCY: THE CASE OF SUB‐SAHARAN AFRICAN COUNTRIES
Authors: HALKOS GEORGE E. , TZEREMES NICKOLAOS G.
Published: June 2012

This paper evaluates the effect of access to improved water sources and sanitation on 41 sub‐Saharan African (SSA) countries' economic efficiency and growth. For this reason data envelopment analysis (DEA), bootstrap techniques and probabilistic approaches are used. The empirical results indicate that SSA countries' economic efficiency is positively influenced by the access of population both on improved water sources and sanitation. Finally, when the provision of access to improved water sources is provided to more than 50% of the population, the positive effect on countries' economic efficiency is much greater compared with the effect of providing sustainable access to improved sanitation to the same proportion of population.
FISCAL SUSTAINABILITY AND THE FISCAL REACTION FUNCTION FOR SOUTH AFRICA: ASSESSMENT OF THE PAST AND FUTURE POLICY APPLICATIONS
Authors: BURGER PHILIPPE , STUART IAN , JOOSTE CHARL , CUEVAS ALFREDO
Published: June 2012

How does the South African government react to changes in its debt position? In investigating this question, this paper estimates fiscal reaction functions using various methods (ordinary least squares, threshold autoregressive, state‐space modelling and vector error‐correction model). This paper finds that since 1946, the South African government has run sustainable fiscal policy by reducing the primary deficit or increasing the surplus in response to rising debt. Looking ahead, this paper considers the use of fiscal reaction functions to forecast the debt/gross domestic product (GDP) ratio and gauging the likelihood of achieving policy goals with the aid of probabilistic simulations and fan charts.
Experimental verification of the motion of a loaded hoop
Authors: Maritz M. F. , Theron W. F. D.
Published: June 2012

We report the results of an experiment on the rolling motion of a loaded hoop. The data are obtained using a high-speed video camera, and the motion is analyzed on a frame-by-frame basis. Our analysis demonstrates that the experimental results are in reasonably close agreement with previously reported theoretical results.
Resource Letter SS–1: The Spin-Statistics Connection
Authors: Curceanu Catalina , Gillaspy J. D. , Hilborn Robert C.
Published: June 2012

This Resource Letter provides a guide to the literature on the spin-statistics connection and related issues such as the Pauli exclusion principle and particle indistinguishability. Journal articles and books are cited for the following topics: basic resources, general aspects of spin-statistics, the spin-statistics theorem, theories that go beyond the standard spin-statistics theorem, and experimental tests of the spin-statistics theorem and the symmetrization postulate.
STRUCTURAL, ELECTRONIC AND OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF MgSxSe1-x, MgSxTe1-x AND MgSexTe1-x (0 ≤x ≤1) ALLOYS FROM FIRST PRINCIPLES
Authors: SAJID A. , ALAY-E-ABBAS S. M. , AFAQ A. , SHAUKAT A.
Published: June 2012

First principles total energy calculations have been performed using full potential linear augmented plane wave method (FP-LAPW) within density functional theory to study the structural, electronic and optical properties of MgS x Se 1-x, MgS x Te 1-x and MgSe x Te 1-x alloys in the rock salt crystallographic phase. The generalized gradient approximation parameterization scheme has been used for calculating the ground state structural parameters and their deviation from the Vegard's law has been discussed. Full relativistic electronic band structures and density of states have been calculated to study the electronic properties of the end binary compounds and ternary alloys MgS x Se 1-x, MgS x Te 1-x and MgSe x Te 1-x (0.25 < x < 0.75). Optical bowing for these semiconductor alloys has been discussed in term of volume deformation, electronegativity and structural relaxation. Optical properties of the binary and ternary magnesium chalcogenides have been calculated in terms of the complex dielectric function and the results are compared with available theoretical and experimental data.
BACH FLOWS OF PRODUCT MANIFOLDS
Authors: DAS SANJIT , KAR SAYAN
Published: June 2012

We investigate various aspects of a geometric flow defined using the Bach tensor. First, using a well-known split of the Bach tensor components for (2, 2) unwarped product manifolds, we solve the Bach flow equations for typical examples of product manifolds like S2 × S2, R2 × S2. In addition, we obtain the fixed-point condition for general (2, 2) manifolds and solve it for a restricted case. Next, we consider warped manifolds. For Bach flows on a special class of asymmetrically warped 4-manifolds, we reduce the flow equations to a first-order dynamical system, which is solved exactly to find the flow characteristics. We compare our results for Bach flow with those for Ricci flow and discuss the differences qualitatively. Finally, we conclude by mentioning possible directions for future work.
INTEGRATION OF SEMIDIRECT PRODUCT LIE 2-ALGEBRAS
Authors: SHENG YUNHE , ZHU CHENCHANG
Published: June 2012

The semidirect product of a Lie algebra and a 2-term representation up to homotopy is a Lie 2-algebra. Such Lie 2-algebras include many examples arising from the Courant algebroid appearing in generalized complex geometry. In this paper, we integrate such a Lie 2-algebra to a strict Lie 2-group in the finite-dimensional case.
EFFECT OF (Bi2O3)0.75(Y2O3)0.25 ADDITION ON MICROSTRUCTURES AND IONIC CONDUCTIVITIES OF CODOPED ZIRCONIA
Authors: CHOU CHEN CHIA , HUANG CHUN FENG , YEH TSUNG HER
Published: June 2012

Variation of microstructures and ionic conductivities in (Bi2O3)0.75(Y2O3)0.25 (YSB) modified electrolyte of 8 mol% Y 2 O 3 stabilized zirconia (8YSZ) and YSB modified codoped zirconia ( ZrO 2)0.92( Y 2 O 3)0.075( MgO )0.005 (YSZM) is investigated in this work. The results demonstrated that a small amount of δ-YSB addition is effective in reducing the sintering temperature of 8YSZ from 1500 to 1200°C and promoting the densification rate of ceramics. Compared to 8YSZ electrolyte, it is interesting that a very limited amount of monoclinic ZrO2 was observed due to the MgO stabilizer in YSB modified codoped zirconia electrolyte. Besides, enhancement of ionic conductivity in δ-YSB modified codoped zirconia is evidently increased by 67% in comparison to the specimen of 8YSZ electrolyte.
Correlation between Antistress and Hepatoprotective Effects of Schisandra Lignans Was Related with Its Antioxidative Actions in Liver Cells
Authors: Pu Hao-Jie , Cao Yun-Feng , He Rong-Rong , Zhao Zhi-Long , Song Jin-Hui , Jiang Bin , Huang Ting , Tang Shu-Hong , Lu Jian-Min , Kurihara Hiroshi
Published: June 2012

The present study was conducted to investigate the relationship between the anti-stress and hepato-protective effects of Schisandra Lignans Extract (SLE) on stress-induced liver damage. Seven weeks old male mice were fixed in a restraint tube for 18 h to induce liver damage. SLE was orally administered to animals for 5 days at dosages of 100 and 200 mg/kg/day before exposed to restraint stress. Oral administration of SLE significantly reduced restraint-induced liver damage in experimental animal. SLE was further found to significantly alleviate the provocation of corticosterone in stressed mice. SLE also significantly decreased oxidative damage and increased anti-oxidative capability of liver cells by preventing the over production and accumulation of free radicals. In conclusion, the protective effects of SLE on stress-induced liver damage were confirmed, and the correlation between hepatoprotective and anti-stress effects of schisandra lignans was possible related to its alleviation on the malignant effects of stressors for bio-homeostasis, such as balance of oxidation and reduction in cells.
Association of Polymorphisms in Mitofusin-2 Gene with Type 2 Diabetes in Han Chinese
Authors: Li Pengtao , Zhu Shuying , Wu Xiaopan , Zhu Xilin , Li Jingyun , Pan Liping , Xin Zhenhui , Niu Fenghe , Wu Jia , Liu Ying
Published: June 2012

MFN2andESRRAare candidate genes involved in the pathogenesis of T2D. Five tag-SNPs inMFN2gene and three inESRRAgene were selected and genotyped with TaqMan or PCR-RFLP method in stage 1 populations (555 patients with T2D and 649 control subjects) and stage 2 populations (546 patients with T2D versus 419 control subjects) in Han Chinese. And combining our published data, we estimated the interactions between genetic variants in theMFN2,ESRRA, andPGC-1αgenes on the T2D risk using MDR. rs873458 (G>A) and rs2878677 (C>T) inMFN2gene were significantly associated with T2D (P=0.005and 0.01) in stage 1 populations, and the association of other SNPs with T2D was not found. In stage 2 populations, we further confirmed the association between rs2878677 and T2D (P=0.01). Combining the two stage populations, the data supported more significant effect of rs873458 and rs2878677 on T2D risk (P=0.003and 0.0001). A-C-G-T-C and G-T-C-T-C inMFN2had significant association with T2D (P=0.007and 0.009). The present study also provided the evidence thatMFN2had interactions withPGC-1α(P<0.0001) orESRRA(P<0.0001). This study suggested a role ofMFN2polymorphism in the risk of T2D; however, further studies are needed.
Enhancement of Recombinant Human Endostatin on the Radiosensitivity of Human Pulmonary Adenocarcinoma A549 Cells and Its Mechanism
Authors: Jiang Xiao-dong , Qiao Yun , Dai Peng , Chen Qin , Wu Jin , Song Da-an , Li Shi-qiu
Published: June 2012

We observed the effects of endostar on the radiosensitivity of pulmonary adenocarcinoma A549 cells and found that endostar inhibited A549 cell growth under normoxia and hypoxia in time and dose-dependent manners; theD0andDqvalues in control and endostar groups were (1.36 and 1.30) versus (1.019 and 1.015) under normoxia and (1.693 and 1.39) versus (2.453 and 1.026) under hypoxia, respectively; SER was 1.04 under normoxia and 1.22 under hypoxia in endostar group; under normoxia, the apoptosis rates in control, radiotherapy, endostar and combination groups were15.9±0.57%,42.7±0.37%,19.9±0.48%, and41.5±0.38%, respectively, with no significant difference between combination and radiotherapy groups; there was significant difference in G2/M phase cells between combination and radiotherapy groups (P=0.028); under hypoxia, the apoptosis rates in the four groups were16.7±0.67%,30.1±0.95%,26.7±0.62%, and36.3±0.71%, respectively, with significant difference between combination and radiotherapy groups; G2/M phase cells were higher in combination group than radiotherapy group (P=0.000); G2/M phase cells were higher in hypoxic combination group than in normoxic combination group (P=0.003). Based on these results, we conclude that under hypoxia, endostar can enhance the radiosensitivity of A549 cells through G2/M arrest.
Peanut (Arachis hypogaea) Expressed Sequence Tag Project: Progress and Application
Authors: Feng Suping , Wang Xingjun , Zhang Xinyou , Dang Phat M. , Holbrook C. Corley , Culbreath Albert K. , Wu Yaoting , Guo Baozhu
Published: June 2012

Many plant ESTs have been sequenced as an alternative to whole genome sequences, including peanut because of the genome size and complexity. The US peanut research community had the historic 2004 Atlanta Genomics Workshop and named the EST project as a main priority. As of August 2011, the peanut research community had deposited 252,832 ESTs in the public NCBI EST database, and this resource has been providing the community valuable tools and core foundations for various genome-scale experiments before the whole genome sequencing project. These EST resources have been used for marker development, gene cloning, microarray gene expression and genetic map construction. Certainly, the peanut EST sequence resources have been shown to have a wide range of applications and accomplished its essential role at the time of need. Then the EST project contributes to the second historic event, the Peanut Genome Project 2010 Inaugural Meeting also held in Atlanta where it was decided to sequence the entire peanut genome. After the completion of peanut whole genome sequencing, ESTs or transcriptome will continue to play an important role to fill in knowledge gaps, to identify particular genes and to explore gene function.
Honey and Cancer: Sustainable Inverse Relationship Particularly for Developing Nations—A Review
Authors: Othman Nor Hayati
Published: June 2012

Honey and cancer has a sustainable inverse relationship. Carcinogenesis is a multistep process and has multifactorial causes. Among these are low immune status, chronic infection, chronic inflammation, chronic non healing ulcers, obesity, and so forth. There is now a sizeable evidence that honey is a natural immune booster, natural anti-inflammatory agent, natural antimicrobial agent, natural cancer “vaccine,” and natural promoter for healing chronic ulcers and wounds. Though honey has substances of which the most predominant is a mixture of sugars, which itself is thought to be carcinogenic, it is understandable that its beneficial effect as anticancer agent raises skeptics. The positive scientific evidence for anticancer properties of honey is growing. The mechanism on how honey has anticancer effect is an area of great interest. Among the mechanisms suggested are inhibition of cell proliferation, induction of apoptosis, and cell-cycle arrest. Honey and cancer has sustainable inverse relationship in the setting of developing nations where resources for cancer prevention and treatment are limited.
Yeast and the AIDS Virus: The Odd Couple
Authors: Andréola Marie-Line , Litvak Simon
Published: June 2012

Despite being simple eukaryotic organisms, the yeastsSaccharomyces cerevisiaeandSchizosaccharomyces pombehave been widely used as a model to study human pathologies and the replication of human, animal, and plant viruses, as well as the function of individual viral proteins. The complete genome ofS. cerevisiaewas the first of eukaryotic origin to be sequenced and contains about 6,000 genes. More than 75% of the genes have an assigned function, while more than 40% share conserved sequences with known or predicted human genes. This strong homology has allowed the function of human orthologs to be unveiled starting from the data obtained in yeast. RNA plant viruses were the first to be studied in yeast. In this paper, we focus on the use of the yeast model to study the function of the proteins of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) and the search for its cellular partners. This human retrovirus is the cause of AIDS. The WHO estimates that there are 33.4 million people worldwide living with HIV/AIDS, with 2.7 million new HIV infections per year and 2.0 million annual deaths due to AIDS. Current therapy is able to control the disease but there is no permanent cure or a vaccine. By using yeast, it is possible to dissect the function of some HIV-1 proteins and discover new cellular factors common to this simple cell and humans that may become potential therapeutic targets, leading to a long-lasting treatment for AIDS.
Electroencephalography in Mesial Temporal Lobe Epilepsy: A Review
Authors: Javidan Manouchehr
Published: June 2012

Electroencephalography (EEG) has an important role in the diagnosis and classification of epilepsy. It can provide information for predicting the response to antiseizure drugs and to identify the surgically remediable epilepsies. In temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) seizures could originate in the medial or lateral neocortical temporal region, and many of these patients are refractory to medical treatment. However, majority of patients have had excellent results after surgery and this often relies on the EEG and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data in presurgical evaluation. If the scalp EEG data is insufficient or discordant, invasive EEG recording with placement of intracranial electrodes could identify the seizure focus prior to surgery. This paper highlights the general information regarding the use of EEG in epilepsy, EEG patterns resembling epileptiform discharges, and the interictal, ictal and postictal findings in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy using scalp and intracranial recordings prior to surgery. The utility of the automated seizure detection and computerized mathematical models for increasing yield of non-invasive localization is discussed. This paper also describes the sensitivity, specificity, and predictive value of EEG for seizure recurrence after withdrawal of medications following seizure freedom with medical and surgical therapy.
Acute Sedentary Behaviour and Markers of Cardiometabolic Risk: A Systematic Review of Intervention Studies
Authors: Saunders Travis J. , Larouche Richard , Colley Rachel C. , Tremblay Mark S.
Published: June 2012

North Americans spend half their waking hours engaging in sedentary behaviour. Although several recent interventions suggest that short bouts of uninterrupted sedentary behaviour may result in acute increases in cardiometabolic risk, this literature has not been reviewed systematically. This study performed a systematic review of the impact of uninterrupted sedentary behaviour lasting ≤7 days on markers of cardiometabolic risk (insulin sensitivity, glucose tolerance, and fasting insulin, glucose, and lipid levels) in humans. Interventions were identified through systematic searches of Medline and Embase and screened by 2 independent reviewers. A total of 25 interventions were identified that examined the impact of imposed sedentary behaviour on biomarkers of interest. The majority of these studies focused on healthy young men, with very little identified research on females or other age groups. We found consistent, moderate quality evidence that uninterrupted sedentary behaviour ≤7 days results in moderate and deleterious changes in insulin sensitivity, glucose tolerance, and plasma triglyceride levels. In contrast, there is inconsistent, very low-quality evidence linking uninterrupted sedentary behaviour with changes in insulin, glucose, and HDL- and LDL-cholesterol levels. These findings suggest that uninterrupted bouts of sedentary behaviour should be avoided in order to prevent or attenuate transient increases in metabolic risk.
Biomechanics of Disc Degeneration
Authors: Palepu V. , Kodigudla M. , Goel V. K.
Published: June 2012

Disc degeneration and associated disorders are among the most debated topics in the orthopedic literature over the past few decades. These may be attributed to interrelated mechanical, biochemical, and environmental factors. The treatment options vary from conservative approaches to surgery, depending on the severity of degeneration and response to conservative therapies. Spinal fusion is considered to be the “gold standard” in surgical methods till date. However, the association of adjacent level degeneration has led to the evolution of motion preservation technologies like spinal arthroplasty and posterior dynamic stabilization systems. These new technologies are aimed to address pain and preserve motion while maintaining a proper load sharing among various spinal elements. This paper provides an elaborative biomechanical review of the technologies aimed to address the disc degeneration and reiterates the point that biomechanical efficacy followed by long-term clinical success will allow these nonfusion technologies as alternatives to fusion, at least in certain patient population.
What We Know and Would Like to Know about CDKL5 and Its Involvement in Epileptic Encephalopathy
Authors: Kilstrup-Nielsen Charlotte , Rusconi Laura , La Montanara Paolo , Ciceri Dalila , Bergo Anna , Bedogni Francesco , Landsberger Nicoletta
Published: June 2012

In the last few years, the X-linked serine/threonine kinase cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5 (CDKL5) has been associated with early-onset epileptic encephalopathies characterized by the manifestation of intractable epilepsy within the first weeks of life, severe developmental delay, profound hypotonia, and often the presence of some Rett-syndrome-like features. The association of CDKL5 with neurodevelopmental disorders and its high expression levels in the maturing brain underscore the importance of this kinase for proper brain development. However, our present knowledge of CDKL5 functions is still rather limited. The picture that emerges from the molecular and cellular studies suggests that CDKL5 functions are important for regulating both neuronal morphology through cytoplasmic signaling pathways and activity-dependent gene expression in the nuclear compartment. This paper surveys the current state of CDKL5 research with emphasis on the clinical symptoms associated with mutations inCDKL5, the different mechanisms regulating its functions, and the connected molecular pathways. Finally, based on the available data we speculate that CDKL5 might play a role in neuronal plasticity and we adduce and discuss some possible arguments supporting this hypothesis.
Inflammation and Joint Tissue Interactions in OA: Implications for Potential Therapeutic Approaches
Authors: Rainbow Roshni , Ren Weiping , Zeng Li
Published: June 2012

It is increasingly recognized that the pathogenesis of cartilage degradation in osteoarthritis (OA) is multifactorial and involves the interactions between cartilage and its surrounding tissues. These interactions regulate proinflammatory cytokine-mediated cartilage destruction, contributing to OA progression as well as cartilage repair. This review explores the pathogenesis of OA in the context of the multiple tissue types in the joint and discusses the implications of such complex tissue interaction in the development of anti-inflammatory therapeutics for the treatment of OA.