bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Convergence of Maturational Change and Structural Covariance in Human Cortical Networks
Authors: Alexander-Bloch Aaron , Raznahan Armin , Bullmore Ed , Giedd Jay
Published: February 2013

Large-scale covariance of cortical thickness or volume in distributed brain regions has been consistently reported by human neuroimaging studies. The mechanism of this population covariance of regional cortical anatomy has been hypothetically related to synchronized maturational changes in anatomically connected neuronal populations. Brain regions that grow together, i.e., increase or decrease in volume at the same rate over the course of years in the same individual, are thus expected to demonstrate strong structural covariance or anatomical connectivity across individuals. To test this prediction, we used a structural MRI dataset on healthy young people (N= 108; aged 9–22 years at enrollment), comprising 3–6 longitudinal scans on each participant over 6–12 years of follow-up. At each of 360 regional nodes, and for each participant, we estimated the following: (1) the cortical thickness in the median scan and (2) the linear rate of change in cortical thickness over years of serial scanning. We constructed structural and maturational association matrices and networks from these measurements. Both structural and maturational networks shared similar global and nodal topological properties, as well as mesoscopic features including a modular community structure, a relatively small number of highly connected hub regions, and a bias toward short distance connections. Using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data on a subset of the sample (N= 32), we also demonstrated that functional connectivity and network organization was somewhat predictable by structural/maturational networks but demonstrated a stronger bias toward short distance connections and greater topological segregation. Brain structural covariance networks are likely to reflect synchronized developmental change in distributed cortical regions.
The Inhibition of Neurons in the Central Nervous Pathways for Thermoregulatory Cold Defense Induces a Suspended Animation State in the Rat
Authors: Cerri Matteo , Mastrotto Marco , Tupone Domenico , Martelli Davide , Luppi Marco , Perez Emanuele , Zamboni Giovanni , Amici Roberto
Published: February 2013

The possibility of inducing a suspended animation state similar to natural torpor would be greatly beneficial in medical science, since it would avoid the adverse consequence of the powerful autonomic activation evoked by external cooling. Previous attempts to systemically inhibit metabolism were successful in mice, but practically ineffective in nonhibernators. Here we show that the selective pharmacological inhibition of key neurons in the central pathways for thermoregulatory cold defense is sufficient to induce a suspended animation state, resembling natural torpor, in a nonhibernator. In rats kept at an ambient temperature of 15°C and under continuous darkness, the prolonged inhibition (6 h) of the rostral ventromedial medulla, a key area of the central nervous pathways for thermoregulatory cold defense, by means of repeated microinjections (100 nl) of the GABAAagonist muscimol (1 mm), induced the following: (1) a massive cutaneous vasodilation; (2) drastic drops in deep brain temperature (reaching a nadir of 22.44 ± 0.74°C), heart rate (from 440 ± 13 to 207 ± 12 bpm), and electroencephalography (EEG) power; (3) a modest decrease in mean arterial pressure; and (4) a progressive shift of the EEG power spectrum toward slow frequencies. After the hypothermic bout, all animals showed a massive increase in NREM sleep Delta power, similarly to that occurring in natural torpor. No behavioral abnormalities were observed in the days following the treatment. Our results strengthen the potential role of the CNS in the induction of hibernation/torpor, since CNS-driven changes in organ physiology have been shown to be sufficient to induce and maintain a suspended animation state.
Glucocorticoids Orchestrate Divergent Effects on Mood through Adult Neurogenesis
Authors: Lehmann Michael L. , Brachman Rebecca A. , Martinowich Keri , Schloesser Robert J. , Herkenham Miles
Published: February 2013

Both social defeat stress and environmental enrichment stimulate adrenal glucocorticoid secretion, but they have opposing effects on hippocampal neurogenesis and mood. Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysregulation and decreased neurogenesis are consequences of social defeat. These outcomes are correlated with depressive states, but a causal role in the etiology of depression remains elusive. The antidepressant actions of environmental enrichment are neurogenesis-dependent, but the contribution of enrichment-elevated glucocorticoids is unexplored. Importantly, for both social defeat and environmental enrichment, how glucocorticoids interact with neurogenesis to alter mood is unknown. Here, we investigate causal roles of glucocorticoids and neurogenesis in induction of depressive-like behavior and its amelioration by environmental enrichment in mice. By blocking neurogenesis and surgically clamping adrenal hormone secretions, we showed that neurogenesis, via hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis interactions, is directly involved in precipitating the depressive phenotype after social defeat. Mice adrenalectomized before social defeat showed enhanced behavioral resiliency and increased survival of adult-born hippocampal neurons compared with sham-operated defeated mice. However, mice lacking hippocampal neurogenesis did not show protective effects of adrenalectomy. Moreover, glucocorticoids secreted during environmental enrichment promoted neurogenesis and were required for restoration of normal behavior after social defeat. The data demonstrate that glucocorticoid-dependent declines in neurogenesis drive changes in mood after social defeat and that glucocorticoids secreted during enrichment promote neurogenesis and restore normal behavior after defeat. These data provide new evidence for direct involvement of neurogenesis in the etiology of depression, suggesting that treatments promoting neurogenesis can enhance stress resilience.
Rescue of Infralimbic mGluR2Deficit Restores Control Over Drug-Seeking Behavior in Alcohol Dependence
Authors: Meinhardt Marcus W. , Hansson Anita C. , Perreau-Lenz Stephanie , Bauder-Wenz Christina , Stählin Oliver , Heilig Markus , Harper Clive , Drescher Karla U. , Spanagel Rainer , Sommer Wolfgang H.
Published: February 2013

A key deficit in alcohol dependence is disrupted prefrontal function leading to excessive alcohol seeking, but the molecular events underlying the emergence of addictive responses remain unknown. Here we show by convergent transcriptome analysis that the pyramidal neurons of the infralimbic cortex are particularly vulnerable for the long-term effects of chronic intermittent ethanol intoxication. These neurons exhibit a pronounced deficit in metabotropic glutamate receptor subtype 2 (mGluR2). Also, alcohol-dependent rats do not respond to mGluR2/3agonist treatment with reducing extracellular glutamate levels in the nucleus accumbens. Together these data imply a loss of autoreceptor feedback control. Alcohol-dependent rats show escalation of ethanol seeking, which was abolished by restoring mGluR2expression in the infralimbic cortex via viral-mediated gene transfer. Human anterior cingulate cortex from alcoholic patients shows a significant reduction in mGluR2transcripts compared to control subjects, suggesting that mGluR2loss in the rodent and human corticoaccumbal neurocircuitry may be a major consequence of alcohol dependence and a key pathophysiological mechanism mediating increased propensity to relapse. Normalization of mGluR2function within this brain circuit may be of therapeutic value.
PrPCControls via Protein Kinase A the Direction of Synaptic Plasticity in the Immature Hippocampus
Authors: Caiati Maddalena D. , Safiulina Victoria F. , Fattorini Giorgia , Sivakumaran Sudhir , Legname Giuseppe , Cherubini Enrico
Published: February 2013

The cellular form of prion protein PrPCis highly expressed in the brain, where it can be converted into its abnormally folded isoform PrPScto cause neurodegenerative diseases. Its predominant synaptic localization suggests a crucial role in synaptic signaling. Interestingly, PrPCis developmentally regulated and its high expression in the immature brain could be instrumental in regulating neurogenesis and cell proliferation. Here, PrPC-deficient (Prnp0/0) mice were used to assess whether the prion protein is involved in synaptic plasticity processes in the neonatal hippocampus. To this aim, calcium transients associated with giant depolarizing potentials, a hallmark of developmental networks, were transiently paired with mossy fiber activation in such a way that the two events were coincident. While this procedure caused long-term potentiation (LTP) in wild-type (WT) animals, it caused long-term depression (LTD) inPrnp0/0mice. Induction of LTP was postsynaptic and required the activation of cAMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA) signaling. The induction of LTD was presynaptic and relied on G-protein-coupled GluK1 receptor and protein lipase C. In addition, at emerging CA3-CA1 synapses in WT mice, but not inPrnp0/0mice, pairing Schaffer collateral stimulation with depolarization of CA1 principal cells induced LTP, known to be PKA dependent. Postsynaptic infusion of a constitutively active isoform of PKA catalytic subunit Cα into CA1 and CA3 principal cells in the hippocampus ofPrnp0/0mice caused a persistent synaptic facilitation that was occluded by subsequent pairing. These data suggest that PrPCplays a crucial role in regulating via PKA synaptic plasticity in the developing hippocampus.
Ultrasensitive Detection of Amines by a Trace Amine-Associated Receptor
Authors: Zhang Jingji , Pacifico Rodrigo , Cawley Dillon , Feinstein Paul , Bozza Thomas
Published: February 2013

The mammalian main olfactory pathway detects volatile chemicals using two families of G-protein-coupled receptors: a large repertoire of canonical odorant receptors and a much smaller set of trace amine-associated receptors (TAARs). The TAARs are evolutionarily conserved in vertebrates, including humans, suggesting an indispensible role in olfaction. However, little is known about the functional properties of TAARs when expressed in native olfactory sensory neurons. Here we describe experiments using gene targeting, electrophysiology, and optical imaging to study the response properties of TAAR-expressing sensory neurons and their associated glomeruli in mice. We show that olfactory sensory neurons that express a subset of the TAAR repertoire are preferentially responsive to amines. In addition, neurons expressing specific TAARs, TAAR3 or TAAR4, are highly sensitive and are also broadly tuned—responding to structurally diverse amines. Surprisingly, we find that TAAR4 is exquisitely sensitive, with apparent affinities for a preferred ligand, phenylethylamine, rivaling those seen with mammalian pheromone receptors. We provide evidence that this unprecedented sensitivity is mediated via receptor coupling to the canonical odorant transduction cascade. The data suggest that the TAARs are evolutionarily retained in the olfactory receptor repertoire to mediate high-sensitivity detection of a biologically relevant class of odorous stimuli.
LMO4 is an Essential Cofactor in the Snail2-Mediated Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition of Neuroblastoma and Neural Crest Cells
Authors: Ferronha Tiago , Rabadán M. Angeles , Gil-Guiñon Estel , Le Dréau Gwenvael , de Torres Carmen , Martí Elisa
Published: February 2013

Neuroblastoma is an embryonic tumor derived from cells of the neural crest. Taking advantage of a newly developed neural crest lineage tracer and based on the hypothesis that the molecular mechanisms that mediate neural crest delamination are also likely to be involved in the spread of neuroblastoma, we were able to identify genes that are active both in neural crest development and neuroblastoma tumor formation. A subsequent search of the neuroblastoma gene server for human orthologues of genes differentially expressed in the chick embryo neural crest screen retrieved the LIM domain only protein 4 (LMO4), which was expressed in both cell types analyzed. Functional experiments in these two model systems revealed that LMO4 activity is required for neuroblastoma cell invasion and neural crest delamination. Moreover, we identified LMO4 as an essential cofactor in Snail2-mediated cadherin repression and in the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition of both neural crest and neuroblastoma cells. Together, our results suggest that the association of high levels of LMO4 with aggressive neuroblastomas is dependent on LMO4 regulation of cadherin expression and hence, tumor invasiveness.
Obesity and risk of ovarian cancer subtypes: evidence from the Ovarian Cancer Association Consortium
Authors: Olsen Catherine M , Nagle Christina M , Whiteman David C , Ness Roberta , Pearce Celeste Leigh , Pike Malcolm C , Rossing Mary Anne , Terry Kathryn L , Wu Anna H , _ _ , _ _ , Risch Harvey A , Yu Herbert , Doherty Jennifer A , Chang-Claude Jenny , Hein Rebecca , Nickels Stefan , Wang-Gohrke Shan , Goodman Marc T , Carney Michael E , Matsuno Rayna K , Lurie Galina , Moysich Kirsten , Kjaer Susanne K , Jensen Allan , Hogdall Estrid , Goode Ellen L , Fridley Brooke L , Vierkant Robert A , Larson Melissa C , Schildkraut Joellen , Hoyo Cathrine , Moorman Patricia , Weber Rachel P , Cramer Daniel W , Vitonis Allison F , Bandera Elisa V , Olson Sara H , Rodriguez-Rodriguez Lorna , King Melony , Brinton Louise A , Yang Hannah , Garcia-Closas Montserrat , Lissowska Jolanta , Anton-Culver Hoda , Ziogas Argyrios , Gayther Simon A , Ramus Susan J , Menon Usha , Gentry-Maharaj Aleksandra , Webb Penelope M
Published: February 2013

Whilst previous studies have reported that higher BMI increases a woman's risk of developing ovarian cancer, associations for the different histological subtypes have not been well defined. As the prevalence of obesity has increased dramatically, and classification of ovarian histology has improved in the last decade, we sought to examine the association in a pooled analysis of recent studies participating in the Ovarian Cancer Association Consortium. We evaluated the association between BMI (recent, maximum and in young adulthood) and ovarian cancer risk using original data from 15 case–control studies (13 548 cases and 17 913 controls). We combined study-specific adjusted odds ratios (ORs) using a random-effects model. We further examined the associations by histological subtype, menopausal status and post-menopausal hormone use. High BMI (all time-points) was associated with increased risk. This was most pronounced for borderline serous (recent BMI: pooled OR=1.24 per 5 kg/m2; 95% CI 1.18–1.30), invasive endometrioid (1.17; 1.11–1.23) and invasive mucinous (1.19; 1.06–1.32) tumours. There was no association with serous invasive cancer overall (0.98; 0.94–1.02), but increased risks for low-grade serous invasive tumours (1.13, 1.03–1.25) and in pre-menopausal women (1.11; 1.04–1.18). Among post-menopausal women, the associations did not differ between hormone replacement therapy users and non-users. Whilst obesity appears to increase risk of the less common histological subtypes of ovarian cancer, it does not increase risk of high-grade invasive serous cancers, and reducing BMI is therefore unlikely to prevent the majority of ovarian cancer deaths. Other modifiable factors must be identified to control this disease.
The potential roles of neurotrophins in male reproduction
Authors: Li Chunjin , Zhou Xu
Published: February 2013

Neurotrophins are a family of polypeptide growth factors that are required for the proliferation, differentiation, survival, and death of neuronal cells. A growing body of evidence suggests that they may have broader physiological roles in various non-neuronal tissues. The testicles are complex non-neuronal organs in which diverse cell types interact to achieve correct spermatogenesis. Both neurotrophins and their receptors have been detected in various cell types from mammalian testes, suggesting that neurotrophins may regulate or mediate intercellular communication within this organ. This review summarizes the existing data on the cellular distribution and possible biological roles of neurotrophins in the testes. The data reported in the literature indicate that neurotrophins affect somatic cell growth and spermatogenesis and imply that they play a role in regulating testicular development and male reproduction.
Locoregional Interaction of Ixabepilone (Ixempra) After Breast Cancer Radiation
Authors: Takiar Vinita , Strom Eric A. , Baumann Donald P. , Meric-Bernstam Funda , Alvarez Ricardo H. , Gonzalez-Angulo Ana M.
Published: February 2013

Learning Objectives

Describe the significant locoregional clinical interaction that may result from ixabepilone chemotherapy following radiation. Explain the importance of awareness, detection, and management of radiation recall by both the medical and the radiation oncologist. Describe the spectrum of toxicity represented by radiation recall that can range from erythema to chest wall necrosis requiring reconstructive surgery.

Background.

Radiation recall is an acute inflammatory reaction within a previously irradiated field triggered by chemotherapy administration. We observed a series of patients with unexpectedly severe reactions that included radiation recall and delayed healing when patients received the microtubule stabilizer ixabepilone (Ixempra; Bristol-Myers Squibb, Princeton, NJ) after radiation. We therefore decided to evaluate our experience in patients receiving ixabepilone following radiotherapy.

Methods.

We performed a retrospective chart review of all patients treated with curative intent in the Department of Radiation Oncology at the MD Anderson Cancer Center from 2008–2011 who received any ixabepilone after completion of external-beam radiation therapy. These patients received adjuvant ixabepilone on one of two protocols, either for locally advanced breast cancer or for metastatic breast cancer. In total, 19 patients were identified and their charts were subsequently reviewed for evidence of ixabepilone-related toxicity.

Results.

Of the 19 patients identified who received ixabepilone following radiation therapy, three (15.8%) had unexpectedly serious reactions in the months following radiation therapy. Complications included delayed wound closure and drain placement into the seroma, intense erythema, and delayed wound closure and grade 4 chest wall necrosis requiring latissimus flap and skin grafting. The average number of days between the end of radiation therapy and documentation of reaction was 99.

Conclusions.

Ixabepilone chemotherapy may induce radiation recall and delayed wound healing when used shortly after the completion of external-beam radiotherapy. Significant clinical interactions have not been previously reported and merit further evaluation.
Molecular Characterization of Basal-Like and Non-Basal-Like Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Prat Aleix , Adamo Barbara , Cheang Maggie C.U. , Anders Carey K. , Carey Lisa A. , Perou Charles M.
Published: February 2013

Learning Objectives

Contrast the definitions of TN and basal-like. Describe the undistinguishable global gene expression patterns of non-basal-like TN tumors versus non-TN tumors that are non-basal-like. Describe the relationship between TN heterogeneity and tumor heterogeneity plus microenvironmental heterogeneity.

Triple-negative (TN) and basal-like (BL) breast cancer definitions have been used interchangeably to identify breast cancers that lack expression of the hormone receptors and overexpression and/or amplification of HER2. However, both classifications show substantial discordance rates when compared to each other. Here, we molecularly characterize TN tumors and BL tumors, comparing and contrasting the results in terms of common patterns and distinct patterns for each. In total, when testing 412 TN and 473 BL tumors, 21.4% and 31.5% were identified as non-BL and non-TN, respectively. TN tumors identified as luminal or HER2-enriched (HER2E) showed undistinguishable overall gene expression profiles when compared versus luminal or HER2E tumors that were not TN. Similar findings were observed within BL tumors regardless of their TN status, which suggests that molecular subtype is preserved regardless of individual marker results. Interestingly, most TN tumors identified as HER2E showed low HER2 expression and lacked HER2 amplification, despite the similar overall gene expression profiles to HER2E tumors that were clinically HER2-positive. Lastly, additional genomic classifications were examined within TN and BL cancers, most of which were highly concordant with tumor intrinsic subtype. These results suggest that future clinical trials focused on TN disease should consider stratifying patients based upon BL versus non-BL gene expression profiles, which appears to be the main biological difference seen in patients with TN breast cancer.
Silica-based superhydrophobic coating by a single-step process
Authors: Kousaalya Adhimoolam Bakthavachalam , Garg Nitish , Kumar Ravi
Published: February 2013

Silica-based superhydrophobic coatings were produced on glass substrate by dip-coating process. Colloidal solutions containing nanoparticles of silica synthesized via seed growth method (single- and dual-sized particles) and dispersed in three different solvents, ethanol, silica sol and acidic silica sol, were used. Coatings with dual-sized particles in ethanol showed superhydrophobicity with a water contact angle of 155°. The coating adhesion was improved with the use of acidic silica sol as solvent. Coatings prepared from colloidal solution containing 30 wt.% of dual-sized silica particles of 600 and 800 nm in acidic silica sol, showed hydrophilicity with water contact angle of 45° before heat treatment due to the presence of –OH groups from acidic sol. After heat treatment at 250°C for 2 h in atmospheric ambience, the –OH groups reacted to form cross-linked Si-O-Si resulting in superhydrophobicity of the coating with water contact angle of 147°. In this work, silica based superhydrophobic coating was fabricated by adjusting the ratios of the dual-sized silica particles without carrying out any secondary step such as chemical modification or fluorination process on the coating.
Benchmarking to Assess Potential Under-Diagnosis of Smear-Negative and
Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis. A Case Study from Mozambique
Authors: Brouwer Miranda , Gudo Paula Samo , Simbe Chalice Mage , Perdigao Paula , Leth Frank van
Published: February 2013

No tool exists to identify potential under-diagnosis of smear-negative and extrapulmonary TB. In an ecological
study, we used a simple tool plotting percentages of smear-positive pulmonary TB amongst newly diagnosed TB in
African region countries and provinces in Mozambique against the country's and provinces’ HIV prevalence. We visually
inspected the plots to determine potential under-diagnosis of smear-negative and extrapulmonary TB in three facilities in
Manica Province, Mozambique.

In these facilities, we found 67% smear-positivity among new TB cases in an area with HIV prevalence of more than
10%. All African region countries with an HIV prevalence of more than 10% had a smear-positivity lower than 50%.
Most Mozambican provinces with a high HIV prevalence have smear-positivity rate of below 51%. Our findings show
that benchmarking can be used to assist in identifying potential under-diagnosis of smear-negative and extrapulmonary
TB. The findings also suggest that potentially under-diagnosis of these forms of TB exists in the study population.
Effects of High-Protein Versus High-Carbohydrate Diets on Markers of β-Cell Function, Oxidative Stress, Lipid Peroxidation, Proinflammatory Cytokines, and Adipokines in Obese, Premenopausal Women Without Diabetes
Authors: Kitabchi Abbas E. , McDaniel Kristin A. , Wan Jim Y. , Tylavsky Frances A. , Jacovino Crystal A. , Sands Chris W. , Nyenwe Ebenezer A. , Stentz Frankie B.
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE

To study the effects of high-protein versus high-carbohydrate diets on various metabolic end points (glucoregulation, oxidative stress [dichlorofluorescein], lipid peroxidation [malondialdehyde], proinflammatory cytokines [tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6], adipokines, and resting energy expenditure [REE]) with high protein–low carbohydrate (HP) and high carbohydrate–low protein (HC) diets at baseline and after 6 months of dietary intervention.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We recruited obese, premenopausal women aged 20–50 years with no diabetes or prediabetes who were randomized to HC (55% carbohydrates, 30% fat, and 15% protein) or HP (40% carbohydrates, 30% fat, and 30% protein) diets for 6 months. The diets were provided in prepackaged food, which provided 500 kcal restrictions per day. The above metabolic end points were measured with HP and HC diet at baseline and after 6 months of dietary intervention.

RESULTS

After 6 months of the HP versus HC diet (12 in each group), the following changes were significantly different by Wilcoxon rank sum test for the following parameters: dichlorofluorescein (−0.8 vs. −0.3 µmol/L, P < 0.0001), malondialdehyde (−0.4 vs. −0.2 μmol/L, P = 0.0004), C-reactive protein (−2.1 vs. −0.8 mg/L, P = 0.0003), E-selectin (−8.6 vs. −3.7 ng/mL, P = 0.0007), adiponectin (1,284 vs. 504 ng/mL, P = 0.0011), tumor necrosis factor-α (−1.8 vs. −0.9 pg/mL, P < 0.0001), IL-6 (−1.3 vs. −0.4 pg/mL, P < 0.0001), free fatty acid (−0.12 vs. 0.16 mmol/L, P = 0.0002), REE (259 vs. 26 kcal, P < 0.0001), insulin sensitivity (4 vs. 0.9, P < 0.0001), and β-cell function (7.4 vs. 2.1, P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

To our knowledge, this is the first report on the significant advantages of a 6-month hypocaloric HP diet versus hypocaloric HC diet on markers of β-cell function, oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, proinflammatory cytokines, and adipokines in normal, obese females without diabetes.
On the Normality of the Unbounded Product of Two Normal Operators
Authors: Mortad Mohammed Hichem
Published: February 2013

On the Normality of the Unbounded Product of Two Normal Operators

Let A and B be two -non necessarily bounded- normal operators. We give new conditions making their product normal. We also generalize a result by Deutsch et al on normal products
of matrices.
Data-driven models for fault detection using kernel PCA: A water distribution system case study
Authors: Nowicki Adam , Grochowski Michał , Duzinkiewicz Kazimierz
Published: February 2013

Kernel Principal Component Analysis (KPCA), an example of machine learning, can be considered a non-linear extension of the PCA method. While various applications of KPCA are known, this paper explores the possibility to use it for building a data-driven model of a non-linear system-the water distribution system of the Chojnice town (Poland). This model is utilised for fault detection with the emphasis on water leakage detection. A systematic description of the system’s framework is followed by evaluation of its performance. Simulations prove that the presented approach is both flexible and efficient.
The comparative gait effects of select walking surfaces using kinetic and emg analyses
Authors: Slaughter Stephen , Butler Patrick , Capozzella Heather , Nguyen Amanda , Hutcheson Lonn
Published: February 2013

Purpose

This study investigated the EMG characteristics of muscles crossing the knee and the kinetics of the lower extremity during side-slope walking and other activities of daily living. We studied the difference in EMG data of the medial gastrocnemius and vastus lateralis muscles bilaterally and the relative rotation of the thigh to leg.

Methods

Eleven outdoor workers (47.3 ± 13.9 years old) were recruited for this study. Participants walked on a 0° flat surface, 5° and 10° side-sloped surfaces, 10° inclined treadmill and ascended stairs. The EMG activity and rotation about a vertical axis during stance phase were analyzed.

Results

Except for minor variations, ANOVA showed no significant difference in EMG activity between the walking surfaces, furthermore, the relative rotation of thigh-to-leg showed little or no differences between the variables. Multivariate ANOVA showed p-values between 0.1602 and 0.9943 when comparing the EMG data of all side-sloped surfaces. The relative rotation of the thigh to the leg showed p-values of 0.7837 and 0.9813 when comparing the left 0° to 10° and right 0° to 10°, respectively.

Conclusions

The results of this study indirectly indicate that when considering rotation about a vertical axis and EMG activity, there is little difference in knee joint loading.
Famennian ostracods from the Istanbul zone (Gebze, Kocaeli, NW Turkey) and their paleogeographical relations
Authors: Nazik Atike , Çapkinoğlu Șenol , Șeker Emine
Published: February 2013

Famennian (Late Devonian) ostracods of the Thuringian Mega-Assemblage were recovered for the first time from three incomplete sections of the Ayineburnu Member of the Büyükada Formation in the Denizliköy area (Gebze, NW Turkey), which were sampled for conodonts. Conodont faunas define an interval extending from the Upper rhomboidea? or Lower marginifera Zone into the Middle expansa Zone of the standard Upper Devonian conodont zonation. The ostracod faunas found here consist of species mainly with thin-walls, long spines and often smooth surfaces such as Rectonaria, Tricornina, Orthonaria, Triplacera, Beckerhealdia, Timorhealdia, Bohemina, Paraberounella and Acratia. These taxa indicate faunal relationship with Thuringia and the Rhenish Massif in Germany, the Cantabrian Mountains and Pyrenees in Spain, Holy Cross Mountains in Poland, North Africa and China.
Vertical zonality of fractionated granite plutons reflected in zircon chemistry: the Cínovec A-type versus the Beauvoir S-type suite
Authors: Breiter Karel , Škoda Radek
Published: February 2013

We studied vertical changes in the chemical composition of zircon from two contrasting Variscan granite systems. The Beauvoir system (Massif Central, France) composed of three successive intrusions (B1, B2, B3) represents typical peraluminous S-type granite extremely enriched in P, F, Li, Rb, Cs, Be, Sn, Nb, Ta, and poor in Zr, Th, REE and Y. The Cínovec system (Krušné hory Mts/Erzgebirge, Czech Republic/Germany) composed of two successive intrusions (protolithionite granite, zinnwaldite granite) is only slightly peraluminous, P-poor, F, Li, Rb, Cs, U, Th, REE, Y, Sc, Sn, W, Nb, Ta-rich granite, which may be classified as A-type. In both localities, the most fractionated intrusions are located on the top of the system. Samples from borehole GPF-1 (Beauvoir) represent an 800 m long vertical section through the entire granite stock, while CS-1 borehole (Cínovec) reached a depth of 1600 m. Chemical compositions of zircons from both granite systems show distinct vertical zonality, but their shape and elemental speciation is highly contrasting. At Beauvoir, zircon shows a remarkable increase in Hf-content from 2-4 wt. % HfO2 (~0.03 apfu Hf) in the deepest B3-unit to 15-19 wt. % HfO2 (up to 0.18 apfu Hf) in the uppermost B1-unit. The highest contents of F, P, and U were detected in the intermediate unit B2 at a depth of 400-600 m. At Cínovec, Hf shows only moderate enrichment from ca. 2 wt. % HfO2 in the deeper protolithionite granite to 5-10 wt. % HfO2 in the uppermost part of the zinnwaldite granite. High contents of Th (3-8 wt. % ThO2) are entirely bound in the uppermost section of the granite copula to a depth of 200 m, but below this level the contents only sporadically exceed 1 wt. % ThO2. Concentrations of U, Y, HREE, Sc and Bi also reach their highest values in the uppermost parts of the zinnwaldite granite, but their decrease downward is much gentler. Extreme enrichment of outer zones of zircon crystals from some granites with Hf or high contents of Th, U, REE, Y, Nb and of some other elements in zircons from other localities is not considered to be a specific phenomenon characterizing melts of A- or S-type granite, but reflects a high degree of fractionation of systems rich in Na and F.
Toxicity of lead: a review with recent updates
Authors: Flora Gagan , Gupta Deepesh , Tiwari Archana
Published: February 2013

Lead poisoning has been recognized as a major public health risk, particularly in developing countries. Though various occupational and public health measures have been undertaken in order to control lead exposure, cases of lead poisoning are still reported. Exposure to lead produces various deleterious effects on the hematopoietic, renal, reproductive and central nervous system, mainly through increased oxidative stress. These alterations play a prominent role in disease manifestations. Modulation of cellular thiols for protection against reactive oxygen species (ROS) has been used as a therapeutic strategy against lead poisoning. N-acetylcysteine, α-lipoic acid, vitamin E, quercetin and a few herbal extracts show prophylaxis against the majority of lead mediated injury in both invitro and in vivo studies. This review provides a comprehensive account of recent updates describing health effects of lead exposure, relevant biomarkers and mechanisms involved in lead toxicity. It also updates the readers about recent advances in chelation therapy and newer therapeutic strategies, like nanoencapsulation, to treat lead induced toxic manifestations.
Effects of Xenobiotics on Total Antioxidant Capacity
Authors: FerrariKusano Bucalen Carlos
Published: February 2013

The objective of this article was to review the effects of xenobiotics on total antioxidant capacity (TAC). Measurement of TAC is appropriate for evaluation of the total antioxidant defenses of blood, cells, and different kinds of tissues and organs. TAC is reduced by alcoholism, smoking, and exposure to radiation, herbicides, carbon monoxide, carbon tetrachloride, lead, arsenic, mercury, cadmium, aluminum, and other toxic elements. The test is also an important tool in evaluating environmental and occupational exposure.
Evaluation of biochemical, hematological and oxidative parameters in mice exposed to the herbicide glyphosate-Roundup®
Authors: Jasper Raquel , Locatelli Gabriel Olivo , Pilati Celso , Locatelli Claudriana
Published: February 2013

We evaluated the toxicity of hepatic, hematological, and oxidative effects of glyphosate-Roundup® on male and female albino Swiss mice. The animals were treated orally with either 50 or 500 mg/kg body weight of the herbicide, on a daily basis for a period of 15 days. Distilled water was used as control treatment. Samples of blood and hepatic tissue were collected at the end of the treatment. Hepatotoxicity was monitored by quantitative analysis of the serum enzymes ALT, AST, and γ-GT and renal toxicity by urea and creatinine. We also investigated liver tissues histopathologically. Alterations of hematological parameters were monitored by RBC, WBC, hemoglobin, hematocrit, MCV, MCH, and MCHC. TBARS (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) and NPSH (non-protein thiols) were analyzed in the liver to assess oxidative damage. Significant increases in the levels of hepatic enzymes (ALT, AST, and γ-GT) were observed for both herbicide treatments, but no considerable differences were found by histological analysis. The hematological parameters showed significant alterations (500 mg/kg body weight) with reductions of RBC, hematocrit, and hemoglobin, together with a significant increase of MCV, in both sexes of mice. In males, there was an important increase in lipid peroxidation at both dosage levels, together with an NPSH decrease in the hepatic tissue, whereas in females significant changes in these parameters were observed only at the higher dose rate. The results of this study indicate that glyphosate-Roundup® can promote hematological and hepatic alterations, even at subacute exposure, which could be related to the induction of reactive oxygen species.
Comparison in the efficiency of different murine lines for genotoxicity assays
Authors: Arencibia-Arrebola Daniel Francisco , Rosario-Fernández Luis Alfredo , Suárez-Fernández Yolanda Emilia , Vidal-Novoa Alexis , Delgado-Roche Livan
Published: February 2013

The aim of this research was to compare the efficiency of different murine lines for genotoxicity assays. Rats and mice of different murine lines were used. The spontaneous and induced indexes were evaluated according to alkaline comet assay of peripheral blood leukocytes, micronucleus and chromosomic aberration assay of bone marrow cell, and sperm head morphology assay. In most of the evaluated assays the line of Balb/c mice turned out to be the ideal biomodel, with less spontaneous indexes and high induced indexes to the mutagen used; allowing to detect in a narrow error margin those substances that are classified of very low genotoxicity. These results demonstrate that genetically the line of Balb/c mice in both sexes is more stable than the other ones evaluated. This suggests the use of the Balb/c line on in vivo genotoxicity assay will increase sensibility and robustness.
Recognition of endangered and protected species in the flora and their current condition: an example from Sokołowice forest administration region (Oleśnica forest district)
Authors: Gorzelak Piotr
Published: February 2013

This article is an attempt to draw attention to the differentiation used to conserve endangered and protected species of flora in an area that is administered by the management board of the State Forests. I also draw attention to areas of insufficient knowledge of this subject-matter. A detailed inventory of endangered and protected species of flora for the purpose of planning in forestry would be very useful in light of laws related to nature conservation and the problem of preserving biological diversity. Research in the forest administration region of Sokołowice indicates that almost 2/3 (65.16%) of all sites harbouring endangered and protected species of flora are new (previously undocumented), despite the existence of numerous protected areas – this fact indicates that there are great research possibilities in this field. The main conclusion from this research confirms that multifunctional forestry in Poland will provide the greatest opportunity to preserve the widespread and numerous sites holding endangered and protected species of flora in economically important forests.
Somatotype characteristics of male patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Baltadjiev Atanas G.
Published: February 2013

Introduction: Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder and as such it no doubt affects the components of somatotype of diabetics.

Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the somatotype of males with type 2 diabetes.

Patients and methods: In the study we assessed anthropometrically 169 male patients with type 2 diabetes. The patients were Bulgarian; they were allocated into two age groups: group 1 included 40-60-year-old patients and group 2 - 61-80-year olds. Healthy Bulgarian men without any history of metabolic, neoplastic, or other diseases were used as controls divided into age matched groups. Measurements obtained directly were height, body weight, biepicondylar breadth of humerus, biepicondylar breadth of femur, relaxed upper arm circumference, contracted upper arm circumference, forearm circumference, waist circumference, hip circumference, thigh circumference, calf circumference. Skin folds: subscapular, over rib 10, suprailiac, over abdomen, triceps, biceps, forearm, thigh, calf. Calculated parameters: Heath-Carter anthropometric somatotype components.

Results: Mean somatotype of 40-60-year-old male diabetics was endomorphic mesomorph (endo-mesomorph), (endo 5.03; meso 6.57; ecto 2.01). Mean somatotype 61-80-year-old diabetic males was endomorphic mesomorph (endo-mesomorph), (endo 4.14; meso 5.88; ecto 1.64). The between-age comparison showed the somatotype in both age groups of diabetic males to be endomorphic mesomorph. The mesomorphy was dominant, followed by endomorphy and ectomorphy was far behind. The differences in the ratings of the somatotype components were of high statistical significance (P < 0.001). The mesomorphy and endomorphy ratings in patients with type 2 diabetes aged 40-60 years were greater than those of patients aged 61-80 years with the difference reaching statistical significance (P < 0.001).

Conclusions: Both age groups of male diabetics presented with endomorphic mesomorph somatotype. Mesomorphy was the highest, followed by endomorphy. Ectomorphy lagged substantially behind, leading to a shift in the somatoplot upward to mesomorphy and leftward to endomorphy. Unlike the findings of studies in foreign countries presenting markedly dominating endomorphy, in our study Bulgarian diabetic males presented with dominating mesomorphy. This can be regarded as a characteristic feature of Bulgarian diabetic patients. This could be accounted for by the role played by factors such as lifestyle, habits, environment, diet, methods of treatment, etc. The somatotype of Bulgarian diabetic males (endomorphic mesomorph) is more favourable with regard to the risk, course and prognosis of the disease.
Severe Throat Pain in Patients with Negative Oropharyngeal Examination: Four Case Reports and Overview of the Literature
Authors: Peltekis Georgios , Palaskas Dimitrios , Anyfantakis Dimitrios , Symvoulakis Emmanouil K. , Kyrmizakis Dionysios E.
Published: February 2013

Throat pain is one of the most frequent complaints prompting patient visits to healthcare
professionals. Primary care physicians being the fi rst contact point are frequently encountered
with symptoms such as sore throat and odynophagia. However, high level of diagnostic
uncertainty exists when the oropharyngeal examination is normal despite patients’
complaints of severe pain. We present four Caucasian Greek patients, two males aged 47
and 57 years and two females aged 32 and 47 years respectively admitted to an Ear Nose
and Throat department of a general hospital, with severe throat pain and initially normal
oropharyngeal examination. This case series highlights the necessity for a high level of
suspicion on the part of the primary care physicians when facing patients complaining of
severe throat pain since their symptoms may indicate conditions such as supraglottitis, lingual
tonsillitis or pemphigus vulgaris. A careful clinical examination, including an indirect
laryngoscopy, is required especially when the initial oropharyngeal examination is normal.
Combining ability of carrot (Daucus carota L.) lines and heritability of yield and its quality components
Authors: Jagosz Barbara
Published: February 2013

The purpose of this research was to investigate the combining ability of inbred lines in terms of traits important for the development of hybrid carrot cultivars with high yields and better root quality. The experimental plant material consisted of 15 inbred lines that were crossed in an incomplete diallel design to produce 34 hybrids. It was observed that the variation of general combining ability (GCA), specific combining ability (SCA) and reciprocal effects (RE) were significant for all of the tested characters, except SCA for sugars. Among the tested lines, the RFO had the most positive GCA for the yield; at the some time, the RFO line had negative GCA for carotenes and dry matter content. A significant positive GCA was found for all traits, except monosaccharides and nitrates, for the 2163 line. Most of the crosses based on the RFO and 2163 lines yielded well; additionally, the hybrids based on 2163 presented high levels of quality characters. The ratio of GCA:SCA indicated that the quality traits were mainly affected by additive gene effects, but the yield was controlled more by non-additive gene effects. Heritability in a broad sense presented a higher environmental influence for yield than the quality characters of carrot roots.
Surgical Repair and Rehabilitation of a Combined 330° Capsulolabral Lesion and Partial-Thickness Rotator Cuff Tear in a Professional Quarterback: A Case Report
Authors: Wilk Kevin E. , Macrina Leonard C. , Yenchak Adrian J. , Cain E. Lyle , Andrews James R.
Published: February 2013

Study Design

Case report.

Background

Traumatic glenohumeral dislocations with concomitant rotator cuff and capsular injuries present a unique and challenging surgical and rehabilitative condition, particularly in the overhead-throwing athlete. Multiple injuries of the shoulder complex create the potential for complications in the course of recovery and place a full return to high-level sport at risk. The purpose of this case report is to present the multiphased rehabilitation approach of an elite professional quarterback after an acute 330° capsulolabral reconstruction and rotator cuff repair as a result of a luxatio erecta injury.

Case Description

A 26-year-old male professional football player, a quarterback, sustained a right luxatio erecta shoulder dislocation while trying to recover a fumble during a regular-season game. The injury occurred when he was hit in the back of his throwing shoulder, which was in an abducted and externally rotated position, while lying on the ground. Five days postinjury, he underwent a 330° capsulolabral repair, with concomitant rotator cuff repair and subacromial decompression. He completed 28 weeks of a multiphased rehabilitation program.

Outcomes

The patient returned to play in the National Football League (NFL) 8 months later, for the start of the next season, during which he had his most productive year as a professional quarterback, leading the league in passing yards and finishing third in the league for the number of touchdowns. Since the injury, the patient has played 6 consecutive seasons, starting over 96 consecutive, regular-season games and maintaining a very high level of play.

Discussion

This case report highlights the clinical decision-making process and management of this rare, severe injury.

Level of Evidence

Therapy, level 4. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2013;43(3):142–153. Epub 12 February 2013. doi:10.2519/jospt.2013.3726
Investigation of Actual Wheel Load Distribution and Its Practical Implication for Design
Authors: Oh Chang Kook , Bae Doobyong , Hong Kee-Jeung , Choi Jaeyoun
Published: February 2013

The orthotropic steel deck system has been widely adopted to construct long span bridges due to the well-known advantages such as light weight, easy quality control, rapid construction, etc. As bridges become longer and slender, for example, super-long span bridges, two-balanced objectives to prevent fatigue cracks without actually increasing the self-weight of the deck system should be accomplished at the same time. In the previous study, an optimal connection detail regarding the shape of scallop as well as bulkhead plates was suggested and utilizing the proposed connection detail of the system that hardly increases the weight was proved analytically and experimentally to enhance fatigue performance under uniformly distributed wheel load. The actual distribution of wheel load, however, has been reported to be concentrated more above the intersection between deck and cross-beam, which results in stress concentration beneath the region accordingly. The region of interest is located near the welding between longitudinal ribs and a cross-beam. In this study, wheel load test is carried out to investigate the aforementioned load distribution effects to compare with those obtained from finite element methods using commercial program and then analytical model to simulate the actual wheel load is proposed from the comparison between experimentation and analysis.