bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Specific conjugate addition to α,β-acetylenic ketones
Authors: Sengee Myagmarsuren , Sydnes Leiv K.
Published: February 2011

A variety of α,β-unsaturated acetylenic ketones, prepared in good yields from 3,3,4,4-tetraethoxybut-1-yne (TEB), have been reacted with selected mono- and bis-nucleophilic reagents. The mononucleophiles react in a Michael fashion and give in most cases the corresponding α,β-unsaturated alkenones in good yield. Many of the alkenes are formed as single stereoisomers, but the configuration depends on the nature of the nucleophile. If hydrogen bonds can be formed, theZgeometry is preferred, otherwise theEgeometry is completely predominant. Experiments have also uncovered that α,β-unsaturated acetylenic ketones with agem-diethoxy moiety in the α' position decompose when reacted with sodium hydroxide in aqueous tetrahydrofuran (THF); the carbonyl group is attacked and a carboxylic acid and a terminal alkyne are formed. If the nucleophiles contain two nucleophilic centers or if the α,β-unsaturated acetylenic ketones contain an additional reactive group, such as a hydroxyl group or an acyloxy moiety, useful secondary reactions may occur. By taking advantage of such secondary transformations, two completely regioselective syntheses of furans have so far been developed.
Exploring the Adult Life of Men and Women With Fragile X Syndrome: Results From a National Survey
Authors: Hartley Sigan L , Seltzer Marsha Mailick , Raspa Melissa , Olmstead Murrey , Bishop Ellen , Bailey, Donald B
Published: February 2011

Using data from a national family survey, the authors describe the adult lives (i.e., residence, employment, level of assistance needed with everyday life, friendships, and leisure activities) of 328 adults with the full mutation of the FMR1 gene and identify characteristics related to independence in these domains. Level of functional skills was the strongest predictor of independence in adult life for men, whereas ability to interact appropriately was the strongest predictor for women. Co-occurring mental health conditions influenced independence in adult life for men and women, in particular, autism spectrum disorders for men and affect problems for women. Services for adults with fragile X syndrome should not only target functional skills but interpersonal skills and co-occurring mental health conditions.
Accounting for the “Down Syndrome Advantage”
Authors: Esbensen Anna J , Seltzer Marsha Mailick
Published: February 2011

The authors examined factors that could explain the higher levels of psychosocial well being observed in past research in mothers of individuals with Down syndrome compared with mothers of individuals with other types of intellectual disabilities. The authors studied 155 mothers of adults with Down syndrome, contrasting factors that might validly account for the “Down syndrome advantage” (behavioral phenotype) with those that have been portrayed in past research as artifactual (maternal age, social supports). The behavioral phenotype predicted less pessimism, more life satisfaction, and a better quality of the mother–child relationship. However, younger maternal age and fewer social supports, as well as the behavioral phenotype, predicted higher levels of caregiving burden. Implications for future research on families of individuals with Down syndrome are discussed.
Secondary Conditions in People With Developmental Disability
Authors: Koritsas Stella , Iacono Teresa
Published: February 2011

The authors investigated secondary conditions in people with developmental disabilities in terms of (a) the average number of conditions experienced and overall health and independence, (b) their degree and nature, and (c) gender differences. Information was obtained by a questionnaire completed by the caregivers for 659 people with developmental disabilities. Participants experienced an average of 11.3 secondary conditions. Secondary conditions causing significant limitations were reading difficulties, communication, physical fitness–conditioning, personal hygiene–appearance, weight, dental and oral hygiene, and memory problems. Some gender differences emerged in overall health scores and limitations due to secondary conditions.
Peer-Related Social Competence of Young Children With Down Syndrome
Authors: Guralnick Michael J , Connor Robert T , Johnson L. Clark
Published: February 2011

The peer-related social competence of children with Down syndrome was examined in an observational study. Dyadic interactions with peers of children with Down syndrome were compared with the dyadic interactions of matched groups of typically developing children and with playmates differing in both familiarity and social skills. Results suggested that both risk and protective factors influenced the peer interactions of children with Down syndrome. Recommendations are made for applying contemporary models of peer-related social competence to etiologic subgroups to better understand the mechanisms involved and to provide direction for the design of intervention programs.
Parkinson's disease – the continuing search for biomarkers
Authors: Breen David P. , Michell Andrew W. , Barker Roger A.
Published: February 2011

There is currently no well-established biomarker for Parkinson's disease. The need to better diagnose the condition, define the subtypes of disease, and follow its course independent of any symptomatic drug effects is well-established. In this review, we will begin by reviewing the evidence for biological fluid biomarkers in Parkinson's disease. We will then touch upon the role of brain imaging in diagnosis and defining prognosis, as well as the value of studying motor phenotype and its potential applications for characterising Parkinson's disease subtypes with differing natural histories.
Clauss assay and fibrinogen protein estimated by capillary zone electrophoresis
Authors: Lebitasy Massin Precieux , Latinne Dominique , Maisin Diane , Vertommen Didier , Eeckhoudt Stephane
Published: February 2011

Background: The clottability and the amount of total protein in fibrinogen provide information about qualitative or quantitative alterations. We aimed to evaluate whether capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) Capillarys II analyzer with the protein 6 buffer is able to estimate the amount of fibrinogen antigen.

Methods: Citrated plasmas were assayed for clottable fibrinogen, and any relationship with the β2-globulin fraction (percentage of the area under the curve) was evaluated. The integration method used was “tangent skimming” in order to reduce the overestimation due to high protein background. Linearity was optimized according to the ICH Q2R1 recommendations and evaluated using polynomial regression. The precision was computed in accordance with the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute EP5-A2 protocol. In patients, clottable fibrinogen (Clauss method) was compared to its protein CZE amount by Passing and Bablok regression and the Bland-Altman plot.

Results: The correlation was linear y=0.0744+0.8991x (R2=0.9707) within the range of 2.26–17.26 μmol/L. The repeatability and the within-device precision were <15% for three levels of percentage of the β2-globulin fraction (1.61%, 3.51%, and 9.24%). In patients, clottable fibrinogen and its protein amount were similar (–0.1779+0.9654x). The ratio activity/protein was 1.08±0.32 (mean±2 SD).

Conclusions: CZE with the Capillarys II and the buffer protein 6 is an easy method. It is a good candidate for estimation of the concentration of fibrinogen antigen, which may have diagnostic utility for the screening of quantitative or qualitative fibrinogen abnormalities.
Analytical variability in sport hematology: its importance in an antidoping setting
Authors: Banfi Giuseppe , Lombardi Giovanni , Colombini Alessandra , Lippi Giuseppe
Published: February 2011

Hematologic parameters are commonly utilized in sports medicine and antidoping testing. However, there are no universally accepted methodologies for comparing the performance of automated blood analyzer systems. To address this problem, we selected and examined 19 studies from a review of literature published from 2000 to 2010. Meaningful discrepancies were found between measurements obtained with different analytical systems. Because harmonization and clear standardization of methods are lacking, the analytical variability often largely exceeds intra- and inter-individual biological differences, producing equivocal test results unreliable for clinical and antidoping testing. A central criticality to applying the Bayesian approach is analytical variability, but the use of different analytical technologies precludes the comparison of inter-methods for determining the robustness of blood variables and their clinical significance. Therefore, future multicenter studies are needed to compare analytical methodologies and blood analyzer systems, and to establish worldwide-accepted standards and quality control protocols.
Laboratory assessment of new anticoagulants
Authors: Samama Meyer M. , Guinet Céline
Published: February 2011

With the introduction of new anticoagulant agents, there is a need for information on which coagulation tests are most suitable. These agents react differently to assays used to monitor older anticoagulant agents because they have alternative modes of action. Therefore, other tests, or modifications of existing tests which are more appropriate for newer agents, are needed. The prothrombin time test (with conversion to the international normalized ratio) is usually used to monitor warfarin. However, conversion to the international normalized ratio is not appropriate for measuring the effects of fondaparinux, dabigatran, rivaroxaban or apixaban. Instead, chromogenic assays, one-step prothrombinase-induced clotting time test and the HepTest with reduced incubation time, are among the different or modified tests that appear to give the most reproducible and accurate results. The tests show variations in response to anticoagulants – some of which have clinical relevance. Thus, it is important to be aware of the observed variations in order to prevent the misinterpretation of test results.
Glycosylation of proteins in healthy and neoplastic human salivary glands – a preliminary study
Authors: Borzym-Kluczyk Małgorzata , Radziejewska Iwona , Cechowska-Pasko Marzanna
Published: February 2011

Background: In cancer tissue, altered glycosylation of proteins is observed. There are some typical changes; for example, sialyl-Lewisa/x glycoforms are more abundant in many types of cancers. The current study investigated the differences in glycosylation of proteins between neoplastic and healthy human salivary glands.

Methods: Sugar structures on proteins with a molecular mass above 30 kDa were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) with biotinylated lectins.

Results: The expression of sialic acid in cancer tissues was higher in comparison with healthy ones. The same observations were revealed for Fuc α1-6, α1-2, T, Tn antigens and α1-6 mannose.

Conclusions: Glycosylation of proteins in cancer salivary gland tissues is altered in comparison with healthy tissue.
The effect of timing of teriparatide treatment on the circadian rhythm of bone turnover in postmenopausal osteoporosis
Authors: Luchavova Maria , Zikan Vit , Michalska Dana , Raska Ivan , Kubena Ales A , Stepan Jan J
Published: February 2011

Background

We hypothesized that with the administration of teriparatide (TPTD) treatment at different times, we would be able to modify the physiological circadian rhythm of bone turnover.

Methods

The concentration of serum C-terminal telopeptide of collagen type I (βCTX), serum N-terminal propeptide of procollagen type I (P1NP), serum ionized calcium (iCa), and plasma PTH were measured every 3 h over a 24 h period in 14 postmenopausal osteoporotic women (aged 72.4±9.3 years) treated with 20 μg TPTD for long term, given at different times of the day. General linear model-repeated measurements (GLM RM) were performed to analyze the circadian rhythms as well as intergroup comparisons.

Results

GLM-RM for both related groups showed a significant influence of time of day on all measured variables except P1NP. The analysis for each group separately provided a powerful model for βCTX (P<0.001, η2=0.496), serum iCa (P<0.001, η2=0.423), plasma PTH (P<0.001, η2=0.283), and serum PINP (P<0.001, η2=0.248). While the evening TPTD treatment showed a marked circadian rhythm for serum βCTX, the morning TPTD treatment rather suggested circasemidian rhythm. The P1NP rhythm followed a much smaller amplitude of the rhythm than βCTX. Changes in serum iCa were positively related to changes in serum βCTX (P<0.001) and negatively related to changes in PTH (P<0.001).

Conclusion

Timing of TPTD administration may significantly change the 24 h variation in bone turnover markers as well as calcium-parathyroid axis in postmenopausal osteoporotic women.
Role of Elongator Subunit Elp3 in Drosophila melanogaster Larval Development and Immunity
Authors: Walker Jane , Kwon So Yeon , Badenhorst Paul , East Phil , McNeill Helen , Svejstrup Jesper Q
Published: February 2011

The Elongator complex has been implicated in several cellular processes, including gene expression and tRNA modification. We investigated the biological importance of the Elp3 gene in Drosophila melanogaster. Deletion of Elp3 results in larval lethality at the pupal stage. During early development, larval growth is dramatically impaired, with progression to the third instar delayed for ∼24 hr, and pupariation occurring only at day 14 after egg laying. Melanotic nodules appear after 4 days. Microarray analysis shows that stress response genes are induced and ecdysone-induced transcription factors are severely repressed in the mutant. Interestingly, the phenotypes of Elp3 flies are similar to those of flies lacking the domino gene, encoding a SWI/SNF-like ATP-dependent chromatin-remodeling enzyme. Indeed, the gene expression profiles of these mutants are also remarkably similar. Together, these data demonstrate that Drosophila Elp3 is essential for viability, normal development, and hematopoiesis and suggest a functional overlap with the chromatin remodeler Domino.
Inference of Mutation Parameters and Selective Constraint in Mammalian Coding Sequences by Approximate Bayesian Computation
Authors: Keightley Peter D , Eöry Lél , Halligan Daniel L , Kirkpatrick Mark
Published: February 2011

We develop an inference method that uses approximate Bayesian computation (ABC) to simultaneously estimate mutational parameters and selective constraint on the basis of nucleotide divergence for protein-coding genes between pairs of species. Our simulations explicitly model CpG hypermutability and transition vs. transversion mutational biases along with negative and positive selection operating on synonymous and nonsynonymous sites. We evaluate the method by simulations in which true mean parameter values are known and show that it produces reasonably unbiased parameter estimates as long as sequences are not too short and sequence divergence is not too low. We show that the use of quadratic regression within ABC offers an improvement over linear regression, but that weighted regression has little impact on the efficiency of the procedure. We apply the method to estimate mutational and selective constraint parameters in data sets of protein-coding genes extracted from the genome sequences of primates, murids, and carnivores. Estimates of CpG hypermutability are substantially higher in primates than murids and carnivores. Nonsynonymous site selective constraint is substantially higher in murids and carnivores than primates, and autosomal nonsynonymous constraint is higher than X-chromsome constraint in all taxa. We detect significant selective constraint at synonymous sites in primates, carnivores, and murid rodents. Synonymous site selective constraint is weakest in murids, a surprising result, considering that murid effective population sizes are likely to be considerably higher than the other two taxa.
The Effects of Weak Genetic Perturbations on the Transcriptome of the Wing Imaginal Disc and Its Association With Wing Shape in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Dworkin Ian , Anderson Julie A , Idaghdour Youssef , Parker Erin Kennerly , Stone Eric A , Gibson Greg
Published: February 2011

A major objective of genomics is to elucidate the mapping between genotypic and phenotypic space as a step toward understanding how small changes in gene function can lead to elaborate phenotypic changes. One approach that has been utilized is to examine overall patterns of covariation between phenotypic variables of interest, such as morphology, physiology, and behavior, and underlying aspects of gene activity, in particular transcript abundance on a genome-wide scale. Numerous studies have demonstrated that such patterns of covariation occur, although these are often between samples with large numbers of unknown genetic differences (different strains or even species) or perturbations of large effect (sexual dimorphism or strong loss-of-function mutations) that may represent physiological changes outside of the normal experiences of the organism. We used weak mutational perturbations in genes affecting wing development in Drosophila melanogaster that influence wing shape relative to a co-isogenic wild type. We profiled transcription of 1150 genes expressed during wing development in 27 heterozygous mutants, as well as their co-isogenic wild type and one additional wild-type strain. Despite finding clear evidence of expression differences between mutants and wild type, transcriptional profiles did not covary strongly with shape, suggesting that information from transcriptional profiling may not generally be predictive of final phenotype. We discuss these results in the light of possible attractor states of gene expression and how this would affect interpretation of covariation between transcriptional profiles and other phenotypes.
Epistasis Increases the Rate of Conditionally Neutral Substitution in an Adapting Population
Authors: Draghi Jeremy A , Parsons Todd L , Plotkin Joshua B
Published: February 2011

Kimura observed that the rate of neutral substitution should equal the neutral mutation rate. This classic result is central to our understanding of molecular evolution, and it continues to influence phylogenetics, genomics, and the interpretation of evolution experiments. By demonstrating that neutral mutations substitute at a rate independent of population size and selection at linked sites, Kimura provided an influential justification for the idea of a molecular clock and emphasized the importance of genetic drift in shaping molecular evolution. But when epistasis among sites is common, as numerous empirical studies suggest, do neutral mutations substitute according to Kimura's expectation? Here we study simulated, asexual populations of RNA molecules, and we observe that conditionally neutral mutations—i.e., mutations that do not alter the fitness of the individual in which they arise, but that may alter the fitness effects of subsequent mutations—substitute much more often than expected while a population is adapting. We quantify these effects using a simple population-genetic model that elucidates how the substitution rate at conditionally neutral sites depends on the population size, mutation rate, strength of selection, and prevalence of epistasis. We discuss the implications of these results for our understanding of the molecular clock, and for the interpretation of molecular variation in laboratory and natural populations.
Functional Relevance of CpG Island Length for Regulation of Gene Expression
Authors: Elango Navin , Yi Soojin V
Published: February 2011

CpG islands mark CpG-enriched regions in otherwise CpG-depleted vertebrate genomes. While the regulatory importance of CpG islands is widely accepted, it is little appreciated that CpG islands vary greatly in lengths. For example, CpG islands in the human genome vary ∼30-fold in their lengths. Here we report findings suggesting that the lengths of CpG islands have functional consequences. Specifically, we show that promoters associated with long CpG islands (long-CGI promoters) are distinct from other promoters. First, long-CGI promoters are uniquely associated with genes with an intermediate level of gene expression breadths. Notably, intermediate expression breadths require the most complex mode of gene regulation, from the standpoint of information content. Second, long-CGI promoters encode more RNA polymerase II (Polr2a) binding sites than other promoters. Third, the actual binding patterns of Polr2a occur in a more tissue-specific manner in long-CGI promoters compared to other CGI promoters. Moreover, long-CGI promoters contain the largest numbers of experimentally characterized transcription start sites compared to other promoters, and the types of transcription start sites in them are biased toward tissue-specific patterns of gene expression. Finally, long-CGI promoters are preferentially associated with genes involved in development and regulation. Together, these findings indicate that functionally relevant variations of CpG islands exist. By investigating consequences of certain CpG island traits, we can gain additional insights into the mechanism and evolution of regulatory complexity of gene expression.
A Screenable in vivo Assay to Study Proteostasis Networks in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Segref Alexandra , Torres Serena , Hoppe Thorsten
Published: February 2011

In eukaryotic cells, the ubiquitin/proteasome system (UPS) is a key determinant of proteostasis as it regulates the turnover of damaged proteins. However, it is still unclear how the UPS integrates intrinsic and environmental challenges to promote organismal development and survival. Here, we set up an in vivo degradation assay to facilitate the genetic identification of ubiquitin-dependent proteolysis pathways in the multicellular organism Caenorhabditis elegans. Using this assay, we found that mild induction of protein-folding stress, which is nontoxic for wild-type worms, strongly reduces ubiquitin-dependent protein turnover. Ubiquitin-mediated degradation is also reduced by metabolic stress, which correlates with life-span extension. Unlike other stress conditions, however, acute heat stress results in enhanced rather than reduced proteolysis. Intriguingly, our study provides the first evidence for the existence of tissue-specific degradation requirements because loss of key regulators of the UPS, such as proteasomal subunits, causes accumulation of the model substrate, depending on the tissue type. Thus, here we establish a screenable degradation assay that allows diverse genetic screening approaches for the identification of novel cell-type-specific proteostasis networks important for developmental processes, stress response, and aging, thereby substantially extending the work on recently described mechanistic UPS reporter studies.
The high costs of conserving Southeast Asia's lowland rainforests
Authors: Fisher Brendan , Edwards David P , Giam Xingli , Wilcove David S
Published: February 2011

Mechanisms that mitigate greenhouse‐gas emissions via forest conservation have been portrayed as a cost‐effective approach that can also protect biodiversity and vital ecosystem services. However, the costs of conservation – including opportunity costs – are spatially heterogeneous across the globe. The lowland rainforests of Southeast Asia represent a unique nexus of large carbon stores, imperiled biodiversity, large stores of timber, and high potential for conversion to oil‐palm plantations, making this region one where understanding the costs of conservation is critical. Previous studies have underestimated the gap between conservation costs and conversion benefits in Southeast Asia. Using detailed logging records, cost data, and species‐specific timber auction prices from Borneo, we show that the profitability of logging, in combination with potential profits from subsequent conversion to palm‐oil production, greatly exceeds foreseeable revenues from a global carbon market and other ecosystem‐service payment mechanisms. Thus, the conservation community faces a massive funding shortfall to protect the remaining lowland primary forests in Southeast Asia.
Optimum Acetone and Ethanol Extraction of Polyphenols from Pinus caribaea Bark: Maximizing Tannin Content Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Derkyi Nana S. A. , Adu-Amankwa Benjamin , Sekyere Daniel , Darkwa Nicholas A.
Published: February 2011

The bark extracts of various commercially important trees contain polyphenolics, which in the form of tannins can form condensation products with formaldehyde to produce wood adhesives. In the present work, aqueous acetone and aqueous ethanol were used as solvents to extract tannin from Pinus caribaea bark. The Stiasny number was determined as well as the amount of sugar co-extracted. Batch experiments were performed at different extraction times (30-180 min), extraction temperature (35-60°C for aqueous acetone; 35-80°C for aqueous ethanol), solvent concentration (10-100 percent), stage extraction (1-6) and liquid-solid ratio (10-50). A mathematical model was proposed to identify the effects of the individual interactions of these variables on the extraction of tannin using the two different solvents. The results have been modeled using response surface methodology. The response surface method was developed using five levels (-2, -1, 0, +1, +2) with the above mentioned factors except the stage extraction factor. The second order quadratic regression model fitted the experimental data with Prob > F to be < 0.0001 for the aqueous ethanol extraction and Prob > F to be < 0.006 for the aqueous acetone extraction. The experimental values were found to be in good agreement with the predicted values, with a satisfactory correlation coefficient of R2 = 0.82 in the case of aqueous ethanol extraction and R2 = 0.45 in the case of aqueous acetone extraction. The maximum predicted tannin yield of 20.68 percent was obtained under the optimum extraction conditions of 71.46°C extraction temperature, 79.2 min extraction time, 21.9 percent ethanol concentration, and 26.4:1 liquid-solid ratio. The amount of total sugars and the Stiasny number predicted under these conditions were 4.94 percent and 80.47 percent, respectively.
Sourcing Premia with Incomplete Contracts: Theory and Evidence
Authors: Kohler Wilhelm K , Smolka Marcel
Published: February 2011

Drawing on Grossman & Helpman (2004) and Antràs & Helpman (2004), we identify general conditions that result in an unambiguous mapping of a firm’s productivity level into the organizational form and location of its input sourcing. Using a detailed 2006-2008 data set for Spanish manufacturing firms, we then establish a number of stylized facts about firm-level heterogeneity in sourcing strategies that have largely gone unnoticed in existing literature on input sourcing. Finally, we explore this heterogeneity through econometric estimation of productivity premia associated with different sourcing strategies. We find a robustly significant premium on a strategy that features offshore production of intermediate inputs through a related party (vertical integration). Lower productivity premia are found for strategies that rely on outsourcing to unrelated parties abroad or on vertical integration within the home economy. Across all specifications employed, estimated mean productivity is lowest for domestic-outsourcing firms.
Synthesis and characterization of divalent metal complexes of the macrocyclic ligand derived from isatin and 1,2- diaminobenzene
Authors: Singh Pal , Grover Vidhi , Kumar Krishan , Jain Kiran
Published: February 2011

A novel series of complexes of the type [M(C28H18N6)X2], where M=Co(II),
Ni(II), Cu(II) or Zn(II) and X=Cl-, NO3- or CH3COO-, were synthesized by
template condensation of isatin and 1,2-diaminobenzene in methanolic medium.
The complexes were characterized with the help of various physico-chemical
techniques, such as elemental analyses, molar conductance measurements,
magnetic measurements, and NMR, infrared and far infrared spectral studies.
The low value of molar conductance indicates them to be non-electrolytes.
Based on various studies, a distorted octahedral geometry may be proposed for
all the complexes. All the synthesized macrocyclic complexes were also tested
for their in vitro antibacterial activity against some pathogenic bacterial
strains. The MIC values shown by the complexes against these bacterial
strains were compared with those of the standard antibiotics linezolid and
cefaclor. Some of the complexes showed good antibacterial activities.
Blood flow measurement by laser Doppler method in orofacial region
Authors: Grga Djurica , Dzeletovic Bojan , Zivkovic Slavoljub , Krsljak Elena
Published: February 2011

Laser Doppler is a noninvasive, objective, reproducible and painless method
for measuring blood flow in tissue microcirculation. This method is based on
the Doppler effect, the change in frequency of light reflecting from blood
cells in motion. Light from helium-neon laser through optical fibers and
probes is directed to the surface of the tissue in which the flow is
measured. Light portion is reflected from the cells in motion and changes
the frequency while another portion is reflected from the static tissue
maintaining the same frequency as the initial light. The total reflected
light, with changed and original frequency, reaches photo detector in the
same probe where the emitter is and it is transformed into electrical
impulse. In the orofacial region the laser Doppler method is used to examine
blood flow in the mandible, teeth pulp and masticator muscles. A significant
drawback of the laser Doppler method is its sensitivity to the ambient
conditions during measuring and the fact that blood flow is measured in all
blood vessels of examined microregion. Therefore, the circulation of
isolated individual blood vessels can not be monitored. Laser Doppler method
can give reliable indicators of blood flow in mouth tissue and method is
acceptable for the patients.
The prevalence of Gram-negative anaerobic bacteria in the root canal of teeth with apical periodontitis
Authors: Stankovic-Nedeljkovic Natasa , Kocic Branislava
Published: February 2011

Introduction. Bacteria from the root canal can penetrate beyond the apex and
cause acute or chronic inflammation in periapical region. The aim of this
study was to investigate the prevalence of different forms of apical
periodontitis and to determine the presence of Gram-negative anaerobic
bacteria in samples taken from the root canal and oral cavity. Materials and
Methods. Study included 45 patients, 30 adults and 15 children. Three samples
from the root canal and one from the oral cavity from the patients with
apical periodontal inflammation were taken and grown on Schaedler agar
enriched with 5% sheep blood, Schaedler agar enriched with 5% sheep blood and
20% bile, Schaedler agar enriched with 5 % sheep blood supplemented with 7.5
mg/L vancomycin and thyoglycolate broth (Biomerieux?). Final identification
of bacteria was carried out by the API A system (Biomerieux?). Results. Based
on clinical history and radiographic findings chronic granulomatous apical
periodontitis was diagnosed in 62.2% of respondents, fibrous form in 24.4%
and acute inflammation in 13.3% of cases. Porphyromonas gingivalis was
isolated in 60% of the samples from the root canal and 20% of samples from
oral cavity. In addition Prevotella intermedia (20%), P. melaninogenica, P.
oralis, P. dentalis, Bacteroides ovatus, B. fragilis and others were also
isolated. Conclusion. The most common form of the apical periodontal
inflammation was chronic inflammation in the form of granuloma. Most
frequently isolated bacterium was Porphyromonas gingivalis. In the samples
taken from the root canal significantly more anaerobic bacteria were isolated
compared to the samples from oral cavity.
Postexposition prophylaxis for hepatotropic viruses (HBV and HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
Authors: Latkovic Marina
Published: February 2011

A serious occupational risk of transmitting viral infections caused by
hepatotropic viruses, such as hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus
(HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is present in dental practice.
The risk of exposure to blood and a variety of pathogenic agents is
significantly higher in health care workers. The aim of this study was to
present the guidelines in the case of risk contact with potentially
infectious material containing hepatotropic viruses (HBV and HCV) and HIV in
dental practice. As those viruses cause serious infections, immediately after
the exposure (up to 24 hours) it is necessary to visit the referent
institution for Postexposition Prophylaxis (PEP) implementation. Complete
dental team should be familiar with PEP protocol. PEP should be administered
by specialist of infectious diseases who assesses the degree of risk contact.
Because of possibly serious complications due to infection by hepatotropic
viruses, all health workers should received a vaccine against HBV.
Instructions regarding the control testing and counseling are provided by a
physician who prescribed PEP. A health worker in Serbia can contact Clinic
for Infectious Diseases in Belgrade, Novi Sad and Nis, if PEP is needed.
Supernumerary tooth in lower incisor region: A case report
Authors: Grga Djurica , Dzeletovic Bojan
Published: February 2011

Supernumerary teeth are defined as any supplementary tooth in addition to
usual configuration of twenty deciduous and thirty-two permanent teeth. They
are most commonly found in the anterior maxilla and mandibular bicuspid
region. Although supernumerary teeth have been reported in the incisor region
of the mandible, they are very rare. It has been confirmed that approximately
25% of permanent supernumerary teeth appear in the mouth, the rest remains
unerupted. The aim of this study was to present a case of single, erupted,
supernumerary tooth in the right incisal region of the mandible. A patient
showed up at the dental office complaining about aesthetic problem caused by
a supernumerary tooth in mandibular incisal region. On intraoral examination,
a supernumerary tooth, conical in shape and labially positioned, between the
tooth 42 and 43, was observed. On previously taken panoramic radiogram, six
months ago, the supernumerary tooth was undetected. Because the supernumerary
tooth was masked by the denser overlying cortical bone, it was difficult to
interpret the radiogram correctly. It should be noted that panoramic
radiography does not guarantee accurate diagnosis of supernumerary teeth,
therefore additional diagnostic methods are required.
Differential Expression of Novel Adiponectin Receptor-1 Transcripts in Skeletal Muscle of Subjects With Normal Glucose Tolerance and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Ashwal Reut , Hemi Rina , Tirosh Amir , Gordin Reut , Yissachar Eleanor , Cohen-Dayag Anat , Rosenberg Avi , Karasik Avraham , Blüher Matthias , Kanety Hannah
Published: February 2011

OBJECTIVE

Adiponectin receptor-1 (AdipoR1) expression in skeletal muscle has been suggested to play an important role in insulin resistance and diabetes. We aimed at evaluating the presence of novel AdiopR1 splice variants in human muscle and their regulation under physiological and pathophysiological states.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

AdipoR1 5′UTR mRNA transcripts, predicted from bioinformatics data, were evaluated in fetal and adult human tissues. Expression and function of the identified transcripts were assessed in cultured human skeletal muscle cells and in muscle biopsies obtained from individuals with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) and type 2 diabetes (n = 49).

RESULTS

Screening of potential AdipoR1 5′UTR splice variants revealed a novel highly abundant muscle transcript (R1T3) in addition to the previously described transcript (R1T1). Unlike R1T1, R1T3 expression was significantly increased during fetal development and myogenesis, paralleled with increased AdipoR1 protein expression. The 5′UTR of R1T3 was found to contain upstream open reading frames that repress translation of downstream coding sequences. Conversely, AdipoR1 3′UTR was associated with enhanced translation efficiency during myoblast-myotube differentiation. A marked reduction in muscle expression of R1T3, R1T1, and R1T3-to-R1T1 ratio was observed in individuals with type 2 diabetes compared with expression levels of NGT subjects, paralleled with decreased expression of the differentiation marker myogenin. Among NGT subjects, R1T3 expression was positively correlated with insulin sensitivity.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that AdipoR1 receptor expression in human skeletal muscle is subjected to posttranscriptional regulation, including alternative splicing and translational control. These mechanisms play an important role during myogenesis and may be important for whole-body insulin sensitivity.
Hemoglobin A1c as a Predictor of Incident Diabetes
Authors: Cheng Peiyao , Neugaard Britta , Foulis Philip , Conlin Paul R.
Published: February 2011

OBJECTIVE

Several studies have suggested that HbA1c levels may predict incident diabetes. With new recommendations for use of HbA1c in diagnosing diabetes, many patients with HbA1c results below the diagnostic threshold will be identified. Clinicians will need to categorize risk for a subsequent diabetic diagnosis in such patients. The objective of this study was to determine the ability of HbA1c to predict the incidence of a diabetic diagnosis.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We performed a historical cohort study using electronic medical record data from two Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Centers. Patients (n = 12,589) were identified with a baseline HbA1c <6.5% between January 2000 and December 2001 and without a diagnosis of diabetes. Patients (12,375) had at least one subsequent follow-up visit. These patients were tracked for 8 years for a subsequent diagnosis of diabetes.

RESULTS

During an average follow-up of 4.4 years, 3,329 (26.9%) developed diabetes. HbA1c ≥5.0% carried a significant risk for developing diabetes during follow-up. When compared with the reference group (HbA1c <4.5%), HbA1c increments of 0.5% between 5.0 and 6.4% had adjusted odds ratios of 1.70 (5.0–5.4%), 4.87 (5.5–5.9%), and 16.06 (6.0–6.4%) (P < 0.0001). Estimates of hazard ratios similarly showed significant increases for HbA1c ≥5.0%. A risk model for incident diabetes within 5 years was developed and validated using HbA1c, age, BMI, and systolic blood pressure.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of diabetes progressively and significantly increased among patients with an HbA1c ≥5.0%, with substantially expanded risk for those with HbA1c 6.0–6.4%.
Inflammatory Genes in Epicardial Fat Contiguous With Coronary Atherosclerosis in the Metabolic Syndrome and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Sacks Harold S. , Fain John N. , Cheema Paramjeet , Bahouth Suleiman W. , Garrett Edward , Wolf Rodney Y. , Wolford David , Samaha Joseph
Published: February 2011

OBJECTIVE

To determine changes in gene expression in epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) associated with coronary atherosclerosis (CAD) and effects of pioglitazone therapy.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Genes were quantified by RT-PCR in EAT and thoracic subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) obtained during surgery in CAD patients with metabolic syndrome (MS) or type 2 diabetes and control subjects with minimal or no CAD and no MS or type 2 diabetes.

RESULTS

Increased expression of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) and IL-10, a trend for higher IL-1β, and no change in peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) was found in EAT from MS or type 2 diabetes. Only PPARγ mRNA was reduced in SAT. Pioglitazone therapy in type 2 diabetes was associated with decreased expression of IL-1β, IL-1Ra, and IL-10 in EAT; decreased IL-10 in SAT; and increased PPARγ in SAT.

CONCLUSIONS

In MS and type 2 diabetes with CAD, proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory genes were differentially increased in EAT and selectively reduced in association with pioglitazone treatment.
Brownian motor moving in a fluctuating tube in the presence of a load
Authors: Ou Zhi-e , Yi Shu-ting , Huang Xiao-qun , Xiong Jian-wen , Ai Bao-quan
Published: February 2011

The transport of Brownian particles moving along a three-dimensional fluctuating tube is investigated in the presence of a load. The tube wall can fluctuate between two states. Coarsening the description of a process for the sake of simplifying the dynamic will result in an entropic barrier and an effective diffusion coefficient. It is found that we can control the asymmetric parameter and the load force to control the current direction and there is an optimized transition rate at which the current takes a maximum value.
Comparing hyoscine and drotaverine effects on colon in CT colonography
Authors: Kristev Athanas , Sirakov Nikolay , Getova Damianka , Katcarov Vasil , Sirakov Vladimir , Stefanov Rumen , Turiiski Valentin , Velkova Kichka
Published: February 2011

Hyoscine and drotaverine effectiveness was compared for the purposes of achieving optimum distension following insufflation in CT colonography. The in vitro effects of hyoscine and drotaverine on tone and contractility of SM preparations isolated from different areas of human colon were studied by isometric registration of contractile activity. Both medications have a relaxing effect on SM preparations and inhibit their spontaneous contractions. The drotaverine-induced effects were reliably more marked than the hyoscine-induced ones. CT colonography was performed in 70 patients who were injected with equal doses of either hyoscine (n=32) or drotaverine (n=38). The degree of drug-induced distension in both groups was determined by measuring the lumen of the colon on a 2D reconstruction. In most colon areas the width of the distended lumen was greater in the drotaverine-treated patients. We concluded that drotaverine can be used as a means to facilitate colonic distension.
Spectroscopic investigations and physico-chemical characterization of newly synthesized mixed-ligand complexes of 2-methylbenzimidazole with metal ions
Authors: Shaker Shayma , Khaledi Hamid , Ali Hapipah
Published: February 2011

Some mixed ligand complexes containing 2-methylbenzimidazole and thiocyanate ion were synthesized. Free ligands and their metal complexes were characterized using elemental analysis, determination of metal, magnetic susceptibility, molar conductivity, infrared, UV-VIS, and (1H, 13C) NMR spectra, and X-ray structure analysis. The results suggest that the Ag(I) complex has linear geometry, Fe(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), and Cd(II) have tetrahedral geometry, Pd(II) complex has square planar geometry, VO(IV) square pyramidal geometry, Pb(II) irregular tetrahedral geometry, and that the Cr(III) and Mn(II) complexes have octahedral geometry. The following general formulae were proposed for the prepared complexes: [AgBX], [CrB3X3], (HB)2[MnB2X4] · 2B and [MB2X2], where B = 2-methylbenzimidazole, HB = 2-methylbenzimidazolium, X = thiocyanate ion, and M = VO(IV), Fe(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), Pd(II), Cd(II), and Pb(II). Molar conductance of a 10−3 M solution in N,N-dimethyl formamide (DMF) indicates that all the complexes are non-electrolytes except the Mn(II) complex which is an electrolyte because the molar conductivity of its solution in DMF is high.
Modeling of diffusive transport of benzoic acid through a liquid membrane
Authors: Koter Stanisław , Szczepański Piotr
Published: February 2011

A model of diffusive transport of benzoic acid through a liquid membrane (LM) separating two aqueous solutions, based on diffusion layers and the assumption of a steady state, has been developed and tested using experimental results. It has been found that a model with the apparent partition coefficient dependent on the concentration is able to describe the time dependence of acid concentration in LM with and without a maximum on that dependence. The quality of the model fit with the single apparent diffusion coefficient of benzoic acid is the same as the one which takes into account the diffusion of benzoic acid in different forms (undissociated and dissociated form in aqueous phase, monomer and dimer in organic phase); however, in the second case, the model becomes overparameterized. Assuming that the partition and diffusion coefficients are constant, the diffusion layer model corresponds to the model of reversible consecutive reactions. Analytical solution for such case is given. Apart from the partition equilibrium, also kinetics of partitioning was considered. It was shown that in some basic situations both cases yield identical results.
Beam properties of fully optimized, table-top, coherent source at 30 nm
Authors: Jakubczak K. , Mocek T. , Rus B. , Polan J. , Hrebicek J. , Sawicka M. , Sikocinski P. , Sobota J. , Fort T. , Pina L.
Published: February 2011

We present results on development and experimental implementation of a 1-kHz, coherent extreme ultraviolet (XUV) radia- tion source based on high-order harmonic generation of the femtosecond, near-infrared laser pulses produced by the titanium-doped sapphire laser system (35 fs, 1.2 mJ, 810 nm) at the Institute of Physics AS CR / PALS Centre. The source comprises a low-density static gas cell filled with a conversion medium, typically argon. The comprehensive optimization of the XUV harmonic source has been performed with respect to major parameters such as gas pressure in the cell, cell length, position of the focus of the driving laser field with respect to the gas cell position, size of the driving near-infrared laser beam, chirp of the femtosecond pulse, and the focal length of the lens deployed in the experimental setup. Harmonic spectra were recorded using an XUV transmission grating spectrometer developed specifically for this purpose. Detailed characterization of the XUV source has been performed including measurement of the XUV beam profile, M2 parameter of the beam, absolute energy, and spatial coherence.
Tracking technology for optoelectronic imaging platform of tethered balloon based on DGPS/INS
Authors: Wang Y. , Wang Z. , Zhou W. , Han X.
Published: February 2011

In this paper, a tracking method for optoelectronic imaging platform of tethered balloon based on difference global positioning system/inertial navigation system is presented in detail. The location and attitude information of optoelectronic imaging platform, the azimuth and elevation angles of camera’s line of sight are used by this method to locate the ground target at the centre point of the camera’s field of view through corresponding coordinate transformation. And then, the method makes use of the update position and attitude information to solve the theoretical point of camera’s line of sight inversely. Finally, an angle control commend will be sent to the inertially-stabilized turntable on the optoelectronic imaging platform, which will adjust its azimuth and elevation angle to make the camera’s line of sight to the ground target. A lot of experiments are conducted, and the results show that the initial ground target is always in the centre of camera’s field of view no matter how the balloon’s position and attitude change, and the new location data of ground target has little difference with the initial location data, while the difference between them is close to 0.
Photoacoustic method of determination of quantum efficiency of luminescence in Mn2+ ions in Zn1−x−yBexMnySe crystals
Authors: Maliński M. , Chrobak Ł. , Zakrzewski J. , Strzałkowski K.
Published: February 2011

This paper presents step by step the procedure of determination of the quantum efficiency of luminescence of Mn2+ ions in the Zn1−x−yBexMnySe crystals. The method is based on the photoacoustic spectroscopy approach. In the paper, the experimental spectra of absorbance, transmission, absorption and photoacoustic spectra of the samples are presented and analyzed from the point of view of the possibility of determination of the quantum efficiency of Mn2+ ion luminescence at room temperature. It was determined experimentally that in the investigated crystals the quantum efficiency of luminescence in the Mn2+ ions is about 35%, 40%, 32% for the absorption peaks at 430 nm, 470 nm, and 510 nm, respectively, for Zn0.75Be0.2Mn0.05Se crystal.