bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
X‐Ray Micro‐Computer Tomographic Method to Visualize the Microstructure of Different Apple Cultivars
Authors: Ting Valentina J.L. , Silcock Patrick , Bremer Phil J. , Biasioli Franco
Published: November 2013

Apples are appreciated for their texture with firmness acting as an indicator of quality. During prolonged storage, apples can soften and their texture can become undesirably mealy. Using an X‐ray microcomputer tomography (μ‐CT) scanner, the porosity (ratio of intercellular space [IS] to total volume) and the structural arrangement of the parenchyma tissue of 4 apple cultivars (Braeburn, Fuji, Golden Delicious, Jazz) stored under similar conditions for 100 d were visualized via the development of 2D and 3D images. The texture of the apples was also measured using a puncture test. The morphometric and textural measurements revealed that firm Jazz apples (flesh firmness: 29.84N) had a lower porosity (17%) compared to soft Golden Delicious apples (flesh firmness: 14.16N; porosity: 29.8%). In general, firm apples had a higher dry matter (%) and a lower porosity (%), while the reverse was true for softer apples. However, this was not an absolute trend as cultivar specific differences in the microstructural organization and consequent mechanical strength of the parenchyma tissue also influenced firmness. For example, although Fuji apples were firm (28.42N), they had a high porosity (29.3%) due to the presence of numerous small and compact IS. In comparison, soft Golden Delicious apples had a high porosity (29.8%) due to the presence of large, interconnected IS. Imaging technologies have the potential to provide a pictorial or graphical database showing the size range distribution of IS corresponding to different parenchyma tissue types and how they relate to apple texture and eating quality.
Soil structural indices' dependence on irrigation water quality and their association with chromophoric components in dissolved organic matter
Authors: Levy G. J. , Lordian A. , Goldstein D. , Borisover M.
Published: November 2013

Irrigation with treated wastewater (TWW) may affect soil structure and stability and the characteristics of dissolved organic matter (DOM) of the soil solution. The objectives of our study were (i) to evaluate the impact of TWW irrigation, as compared with fresh water (FW) irrigation, on aggregate stability and saturated hydraulic conductivity (indices of soil structure stability) and (ii) to determine whether these indices can be associated with the chromophoric indicators of water‐extractable DOM in TWW‐ and FW‐irrigated soils. We studied aggregate stability and soil hydraulic conductivity (HC) of four different soil types irrigated with either TWW (for at least 5 years) or FW. The results were linked to earlier published data on the concentration scores of fluorescent chromophoric DOM components (obtained from excitation‐emission matrices of flouorescence coupled with parallel factor analysis), dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentration and absorbance at 254 nm (Abs254). These were all obtained from water extracts of the same soils as those used in the current study. Irrigation with TWW decreased aggregate stability, in comparison to irrigation with FW, in the sandy clay and clay soils, while in the loamy sand TWW increased aggregate stability. The apparent steady state HCs in the TWW‐irrigated samples in the loamy sand, sandy clay and clay soils were similar to, or significantly less than, those obtained in the FW‐irrigated samples. In the sandy loam the opposite trend was noted. Results of principal component and classification analyses showed that the aggregate stability indices were directly associated with soil organic matter and DOM attributes in the coarse‐textured soils, while in the fine‐textured soils inverse associations were noted. Only in the fine‐textured soils were the HC attributes associated (directly) with some of the DOM characteristics. Our results suggest that structural indices of fine‐textured soils are more sensitive than those of coarse‐textured soils to the composition of water extractable DOM.
Importance of having agreeable friends in adolescence (especially when you are not)
Authors: Knack Jennifer M. , Jacquot Colette , Jensen‐Campbell Lauri A. , Malcolm Kenya T.
Published: November 2013

Using the actor–partner interdependence model, we examined whether adolescent's agreeableness, best friend's agreeableness, and the interaction between adolescent‐friend agreeableness are important for interpersonal functioning. Adolescents (N = 158) in fifth to eighth grades who were part of best friend pairs completed personality and friendship measures. Adolescents' adjustment and victimization experiences were assessed by peer nominations. For boys, best friend's agreeableness moderated the relationship between the target boy's agreeableness and overt victimization, relational victimization, and externalizing problems. For girls, best friend's agreeableness moderated the relationship between the target girl's agreeableness and internalizing problems and prosocial skills. This study provides an initial glimpse into how traits of friends can influence outcomes beyond what would be expected from adolescents' personality alone.
Use of Hydrologic Landscape Classification to Diagnose Streamflow Predictability in Oregon
Authors: Patil Sopan D. , Wigington Parker J. , Leibowitz Scott G. , Comeleo Randy L.
Published: November 2013

We implement a spatially lumped hydrologic model to predict daily streamflow at 88 catchments within the state of Oregon and analyze its performance using the Oregon Hydrologic Landscape (OHL) classification. OHL is used to identify the physio‐climatic conditions that favor high (or low) streamflow predictability. High prediction catchments (Nash‐Sutcliffe efficiency of (NS) > 0.75) are mainly classified as rain dominated with very wet climate, low aquifer permeability, and low to medium soil permeability. Most of them are located west of the Cascade Mountain Range. Conversely, most low prediction catchments (NS < 0.6) are classified as snow‐dominated with high aquifer permeability and medium to high soil permeability. They are mainly located in the volcano‐influenced High Cascades region. Using a subset of 36 catchments, we further test if class‐specific model parameters can be developed to predict at ungauged catchments. In most catchments, OHL class‐specific parameters provide predictions that are on par with individually calibrated parameters (NS decline < 10%). However, large NS declines are observed in OHL classes where predictability is not high enough. Results suggest higher uncertainty in rain‐to‐snow transition of precipitation phase and external gains/losses of deep groundwater are major factors for low prediction in Oregon. Moreover, regionalized estimation of model parameters is more useful in regions where conditions favor good streamflow predictability.
Party Campaign Contributions Come with a Support Network
Authors: Baker Anne E.
Published: November 2013

Objectives

Contributions to candidates from the parties’ congressional campaign committees are thought to have a “multiplier effect” in terms of generating contributions from political action committees.

Method

Using structural equation modeling and timed direct contribution data from the 1992 to 2012 general election cycles, I uncover a complex system of relationships within each party network.

Results

After controlling for the competitiveness of the race, I find party contributions to challengers and open‐seat contestants early in the election cycle positively and significantly predict political action committee contributions to those candidates in the period after Labor Day, both in the era preceding the Bipartisan Campaign Finance Reform Act and the era after reform; however, the strength of the relationship declines in the postreform era and differences between the party networks also arise.

Conclusions

I attribute these developments to changes in campaign finance law that created new hurdles for parties and increased the influence of interest groups.
Rare posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome in a patient with HIV
Authors: Ribeiro Sofia , Monteiro Marta , Moreira Bruno , França Margarida
Published: November 2013

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is an uncommon neurological disorder, characterised by the rapid onset of neurological deficits and characteristic neuroimaging findings—cerebral oedema with a typical preference for the posterior white matter. We report a case of a 59-year-old woman with an untreated HIV infection and hypertension with a PRES diagnosis and a rare involvement of the basal ganglia and brainstem, with microhemorrhages. HIV infection, particularly if untreated, is associated with an inflammatory status and therefore endothelial damage and dysfunction that might have an important role in predisposing acute hypertensive crisis and PRES.
PDA: A Novel Privacy-Preserving Robust Data Aggregation Scheme in People-Centric Sensing System
Authors: Wei Ziling , Zhao Baokang , Su Jinshu
Published: November 2013

With the advancement of wireless communication technologies, mobile phones, PDAs, and car embedded devices are equipped with sensors, such as sound and image. People can apply these devices to form a new sensing network called people-centric sensing network. And this network offers new opportunities for cooperative sensing applications. However, it introduces some challenges, including security challenge and robust challenge. As sensor nodes need to send their individual sensed data to an aggregator node and these data are related to users' real life, privacy-preserving data aggregation is a challenge issue. As a node could become offline or a message could be lost before reaching the aggregator, retaining the correctness of the aggregate computed is important. In this paper, we present the design of PDA, a novel privacy-preserving robust data aggregation scheme in people-centric sensing system. Based on K-anonymity, homomorphic encryption, and secret sharing, PDA can support a wide range of statistical additive and non-additive aggregation functions such as Sum, Subtraction, Average, Count, Max/Min, and Median without leaking individual sensed data. Moreover, PDA is robust to node failure and data loss. We also evaluate the efficacy and efficiency of PDA. The result shows that our scheme can achieve the security and robust goal under a reasonable cost.
Preventive Effect of TU-100 on a Type-2 Model of Colitis in Mice: Possible Involvement of Enhancing Adrenomedullin in Intestinal Epithelial Cells
Authors: Kaneko Atsushi , Kono Toru , Miura Naoko , Tsuchiya Naoko , Yamamoto Masahiro
Published: November 2013

Purpose. Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), the two major forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), have histopathologically and immunologically different characteristics. We previously reported that a traditional Japanese medicine, daikenchuto (TU-100), ameliorated a trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid- (TNBS-) induced type-1 model colitis exhibiting histopathological features of CD through adrenomedullin (ADM) enhancement. Our current aims were to examine whether TU-100 ameliorates a type-2 model colitis that histologically resembles UC and identify the active ingredients.Methods. TU-100 was administered orally to mice with oxazolone- (OXN-) induced type-2 model colitis. The morbidity was evaluated by body weight loss and the macroscopic score of colonic lesions. ADM was quantified using an EIA kit.Results. TU-100 prevented weight loss and colon ulceration. ADM production by intestinal epithelial cells was increased by TU-100 addition. Screening to identify active ingredients showed that [6]-shogaol and hydroxyα-sanshool enhanced ADM production.Conclusions. TU-100 exerted a protective effect in OXN-induced type-2 model colitis, indicating that TU-100 may be a beneficial agent for treatment of UC.
The Influence of Long Term Hydrochlorothiazide Administration on the Relationship between Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System Activity and Plasma Glucose in Patients with Hypertension
Authors: Xiao Xu , Du Hong-jun , Hu Wei-jian , Shaw Peter X.
Published: November 2013

Objective. To observe the relationship between changes in renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) activity and blood plasma glucose after administration of hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) for one year in patients with hypertension.Methods. 108 hypertensive patients were given 12.5 mg HCTZ per day for one year. RAAS activity, plasma glucose levels, and other biochemical parameters, as well as plasma oxidized low density lipoprotein (oxLDL) levels, were measured and analyzed at baseline, six weeks, and one year after treatment.Results. After one year of treatment, the reduction in plasma glucose observed between the elevated plasma renin activity (PRA) group (-0.26±0.26 mmol/L) and the nonelevated PRA group (-1.36±0.23 mmol/L) was statistically significant (P<0.05). The decrease of plasma glucose in the elevated Ang II group (-0.17±0.18 mmol/L) compared to the nonelevated Ang II group (-1.07±0.21 mmol/L) was statistically significant (P<0.05). The proportion of patients with elevated plasma glucose in the elevated Ang II group (40.5%) was significantly higher than those in the nonelevated Ang II group (16.3%) (P<0.05). The relative oxLDL level was not affected by the treatment.Conclusions. Changes in RAAS activity were correlated with changes in plasma glucose levels after one year of HCTZ therapy.
Hands‐Off and Hands‐On Casting Consistency of Amputee below Knee Sockets Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Safari Mohammad Reza , Rowe Philip , McFadyen Angus , Buis Arjan
Published: November 2013

Residual limb shape capturing (Casting) consistency has a great influence on the quality of socket fit. Magnetic Resonance Imaging was used to establish a reliable reference grid for intercast and intracast shape and volume consistency of two common casting methods, Hands‐off and Hands‐on. Residual limbs were cast for twelve people with a unilateral below knee amputation and scanned twice for each casting concept. Subsequently, all four volume images of each amputee were semiautomatically segmented and registered to a common coordinate system using the tibia and then the shape and volume differences were calculated. The results show that both casting methods have intra cast volume consistency and there is no significant volume difference between the two methods. Inter‐ and intracast mean volume differences were not clinically significant based on the volume of one sock criteria. Neither the Hands‐off nor the Hands‐on method resulted in a consistent residual limb shape as the coefficient of variation of shape differences was high. The resultant shape of the residual limb in the Hands‐off casting was variable but the differences were not clinically significant. For the Hands‐on casting, shape differences were equal to the maximum acceptable limit for a poor socket fit.
Effects of Seawater Salinity and Temperature on Growth and Pigment Contents inHypnea cervicornisJ. Agardh (Gigartinales, Rhodophyta)
Authors: Ding Lanping , Ma Yuanyuan , Huang Bingxin , Chen Shanwen
Published: November 2013

This study simulated outdoor environmental living conditions and observed the growth rates and changes of several photosynthetic pigments (Chl a, Car, PE, and PC) inHypnea cervicornisJ. Agardh (Gigartinales, Rhodophyta) by setting up different ranges of salinity (25, 30, 35, 40, 45, and 50) and temperature (15, 20, 25, and 30°C). At conditions of culture, the results are as follows. (1) Changes in salinity and temperature have significant effects on the growth ofH. cervicornis. The growth rates first increase then decrease as the temperature increases, while growth tends to decline as salinity increases. The optimum salinity and temperature conditions for growth are 25 and 25°C, respectively. (2) Salinity and temperature have significant or extremely significant effects on photosynthetic pigments (Chl a, Car, PE, and PC) inH. cervicornis. The results of this study are advantageous to ensure propagation and economic development of this species in the southern sea area of China.
Adaptive Behavior in Young Children with Neurofibromatosis Type 1
Authors: Klein-Tasman Bonita P. , Colon Alina M. , Brei Natalie , van der Fluit Faye , Casnar Christina L. , Janke Kelly M. , Basel Donald , Siegel Dawn H. , Walker Jasmine A.
Published: November 2013

Neurofibromatosis-1 is the most common single gene disorder affecting 1 in 3000. In children, it is associated not only with physical features but also with attention and learning problems. Research has identified a downward shift in intellectual functioning as well, but to date, there are no published studies about the everyday adaptive behavior of children with NF1. In this study, parental reports of adaptive behavior of 61 children with NF1 ages 3 through 8 were compared to an unaffected contrast group (n=55) that comprised siblings and community members. Significant group differences in adaptive skills were evident and were largely related to group differences in intellectual functioning. In a subsample of children with average-range intellectual functioning, group differences in parent-reported motor skills were apparent even after controlling statistically for group differences in intellectual functioning. The implications of the findings for the care of children with NF1 are discussed.
Bisphosphonate Treatment in a Patient Affected by MPS IVA with Osteoporotic Phenotype
Authors: Tummolo Albina , Gabrielli Orazio , Gaeta Alberto , Masciopinto Maristella , Zampini Lucia , Pavone Luigi Michele , Di Natale Paola , Papadia Francesco
Published: November 2013

Morquio A syndrome (Mucopolysaccharidosis type IVA) (MPS IVA) is a rare inherited metabolic disorder characterized by the defective degradation of keratan sulfate and chondroitin-6-sulfate. Classically, MPS IVA patients present with severe multisystemic involvement and have a short life expectancy. Attenuated forms with clinical features limited to minor skeletal abnormalities and short stature have also been described, sometimes associated to an early-onset osteoporotic phenotype. No treatment with allogenic bone marrow transplantation or gene therapy is currently available for Morquio A syndrome, and enzyme replacement therapy is under evaluation. We report a case of MPS IVA, who manifested tardily attenuated phenotype and significant bone mass reduction, which was treated with a bisphosphonate (BPN), resulting in an improvement of X-ray skeletal aspects and functional bone performance. We suggest that the use of bisphosphonates may be an interesting supportive therapeutic option for Morquio A patients with osteoporotic phenotype, but further studies involving more patients are necessary to confirm our findings.
Enhanced Proliferation and Growth of Human Lung Epithelial Cells on Gelatin Microparticle Loaded with Ephedra Extracts
Authors: Singh Dolly , Singh Deepti , Choi Soon Mo , Han Sung Soo
Published: November 2013

The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of extracts of Ephedra gerardiana loaded onto gelatin particles on human lung epithelial cells. Particles were synthesized using oil‐water emulsification technique and were further stabilized by glutaraldehyde. Particle size was evaluated using SEM and zeta potential analyzer and was found to be in the range of 600 nm–1.32 μm. Drug release profile showed controlled and constant release of extract over the period of 5 days. In vitro biocompatibility of gelatin particles loaded with solvent‐free extract of Ephedra gerardiana was tested with human lung epithelial cells. Gelatin particle acted not only as scaffold for cellular adhesion but also as carrier matrix for controlled release of extracts. The cell viability was significantly high when cultured in the presence of Ephedra extract in comparison to cells without Ephedra and 2D system as seen in MTT, SEM, and live/dead staining assay. It is concluded that gelatin microparticle functions both as drug delivery system and scaffold; however, the main finding was the effect of Ephedra extract on human lung cells resulting in enhanced proliferation and consequent promotion of ECM production indicating that extract could be a bioactive component that can be utilized in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
A systems biology approach using metabolomic data reveals genes and pathways interacting to modulate divergent growth in cattle
Authors: Widmann Philipp , Reverter Antonio , Fortes Marina R S , Weikard Rosemarie , Suhre Karsten , Hammon Harald , Albrecht Elke , Kuehn Christa
Published: November 2013

Background

Systems biology enables the identification of gene networks that modulate complex traits. Comprehensive metabolomic analyses provide innovative phenotypes that are intermediate between the initiator of genetic variability, the genome, and raw phenotypes that are influenced by a large number of environmental effects. The present study combines two concepts, systems biology and metabolic analyses, in an approach without prior functional hypothesis in order to dissect genes and molecular pathways that modulate differential growth at the onset of puberty in male cattle. Furthermore, this integrative strategy was applied to specifically explore distinctive gene interactions of non-SMC condensin I complex, subunit G (NCAPG) and myostatin (GDF8), known modulators of pre- and postnatal growth that are only partially understood for their molecular pathways affecting differential body weight.

Results

Our study successfully established gene networks and interacting partners affecting growth at the onset of puberty in cattle. We demonstrated the biological relevance of the created networks by comparison to randomly created networks. Our data showed that GnRH (Gonadotropin-releasing hormone) signaling is associated with divergent growth at the onset of puberty and revealed two highly connected hubs, BTC and DGKH, within the network. Both genes are known to directly interact with the GnRH signaling pathway. Furthermore, a gene interaction network for NCAPG containing 14 densely connected genes revealed novel information concerning the functional role of NCAPG in divergent growth.

Conclusions

Merging both concepts, systems biology and metabolomic analyses, successfully yielded new insights into gene networks and interacting partners affecting growth at the onset of puberty in cattle. Genetic modulation in GnRH signaling was identified as key modifier of differential cattle growth at the onset of puberty. In addition, the benefit of our innovative concept without prior functional hypothesis was demonstrated by data suggesting that NCAPG might contribute to vascular smooth muscle contraction by indirect effects on the NO pathway via modulation of arginine metabolism. Our study shows for the first time in cattle that integration of genetic, physiological and metabolomics data in a systems biology approach will enable (or contribute to) an improved understanding of metabolic and gene networks and genotype-phenotype relationships.
Evidence of microevolution of Salmonella Typhimurium during a series of egg-associated outbreaks linked to a single chicken farm
Authors: Hawkey Jane , Edwards David J , Dimovski Karolina , Hiley Lester , Billman-Jacobe Helen , Hogg Geoff , Holt Kathryn E
Published: November 2013

Background

The bacterium Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium) is one of the most frequent causes of foodborne outbreaks of gastroenteritis. Between 2005–2008 a series of S. Typhimurium outbreaks occurred in Tasmania, Australia, that were all traced to eggs originating from a single chicken farm. We sequenced the genomes of 12 isolates linked to these outbreaks, in order to investigate the microevolution of a pathogenic S. Typhimurium clone in a natural, spatiotemporally restricted population.

Results

The isolates, which shared a phage type similar to DT135 known locally as 135@ or 135a, formed a clade within the S. Typhimurium population with close similarity to the reference genome SL1334 (160 single nucleotide polymorphisms, or SNPs). Ten of the isolates belonged to a single clone (<23 SNPs between isolate pairs) which likely represents the population of S. Typhimurium circulating at the chicken farm; the other two were from sporadic cases and were genetically distinct from this clone. Divergence dating indicated that all 12 isolates diverged from a common ancestor in the mid 1990s, and the clone began to diversify in 2003–2004. This clone spilled out into the human population several times between 2005–2008, during which time it continued to accumulate SNPs at a constant rate of 3–5 SNPs per year or 1x10-6 substitutions site-1 year-1, faster than the longer-term (~50 year) rates estimated previously for S. Typhimurium. Our data suggest that roughly half of non-synonymous substitutions are rapidly removed from the S. Typhimurium population, after which purifying selection is no longer important and the remaining substitutions become fixed in the population. The S. Typhimurium 135@ isolates were nearly identical to SL1344 in terms of gene content and virulence plasmids. Their phage contents were close to SL1344, except that they carried a different variant of Gifsy-1, lacked the P2 remnant found in SL1344 and carried a novel P2 phage, P2-Hawk, in place SL1344’s P2 phage SopEϕ. DT135 lacks P2 prophage. Two additional plasmids were identified in the S. Typhimurium 135@ isolates, pSTM2 and pSTM7. Both plasmids were IncI1, but phylogenetic analysis of the plasmids and their bacterial hosts shows these plasmids are genetically distinct and result from independent plasmid acquisition events.

Conclusions

This study provides a high-resolution insight into short-term microevolution of the important human pathogen S. Typhimurium. It indicates that purifying selection occurs rapidly in this population (≤6 years) and then declines, and provides an estimate for the short-term substitution rate. The latter is likely to be more relevant for foodborne outbreak investigation than previous estimates based on longer time scales.
Identification of late assembly domains of the human endogenous retrovirus-K(HML-2)
Authors: Chudak Claudia , Beimforde Nadine , George Maja , Zimmermann Anja , Lausch Veronika , Hanke Kirsten , Bannert Norbert
Published: November 2013

Background

Late assembly (L)-domains are protein interaction motifs, whose dysfunction causes characteristic budding defects in enveloped viruses. Three different amino acid motifs, namely PT/SAP, PPXY and YPXnL have been shown to play a major role in the release of exogenous retroviruses. Although the L-domains of exogenous retroviruses have been studied comprehensively, little is known about these motifs in endogenous human retroviruses.

Results

Using a molecular clone of the human endogenous retrovirus K113 that had been engineered to reverse the presumed non-synonymous postinsertional mutations in the major genes, we identified three functional L-domains of the virus, all located in the Gag p15 protein. A consensus PTAP tetrapeptide serves as the core of a main L-domain for the virus and its inactivation reduces virus release in HEK 293T cells by over 80%. Electron microscopy of cells expressing the PTAP mutant revealed predominantly late budding structures and budding chains at the plasma membrane. The fact that this motif determines subcellular colocalization with Tsg101, an ESCRT-I complex protein known to bind to the core tetrapeptide, supports its role as an L-domain. Moreover, two YPXnL motifs providing additional L-domain function were identified in the p15 protein. One is adjacent to the PTAP sequence and the other is in the p15 N-terminus. Mutations in either motif diminishes virus release and induces an L-domain phenotype while inactivation of all three L-domains results in a complete loss of particle release in HEK 293T cells. The flexibility of the virus in the use of L-domains for gaining access to the ESCRT machinery is demonstrated by overexpression of Tsg101 which rescues the release of the YPXnL mutants. Similarly, overexpression of Alix not only enhances release of the PTAP mutant by a factor of four but also the release of a triple mutant, indicating that additional cryptic YPXnL domains with a low affinity for Alix may be present. No L-domain activity is provided by the proline-rich peptides at the Gag C-terminus.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate that HERV-K(HML-2) release is predominantly mediated through a consensus PTAP motif and two auxiliary YPXnL motifs in the p15 protein of the Gag precursor.
Clinicopathologic significance of claudin-6, occludin, and matrix metalloproteinases −2 expression in ovarian carcinoma
Authors: Wang Liping , Jin Xiangshu , Lin Dongjing , Liu Zhijing , Zhang Xiaowei , Lu Yan , Liu Yuanyuan , Wang Min , Yang Minlan , Li Jiuxia , Quan Chengshi
Published: November 2013

Background

Tight junctions (TJs) are mainly composed of claudins, occludin, and tight junction adhesion molecules (JAM). The invasive and metastatic phenotype of highly invasive cancer cells has been related to abnormal structure and function of TJs, and with expression of activated matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). The relevance of these mechanisms responsible for the invasion and metastasis of ovarian carcinoma is unclear. Similarly, it is not known if the expression of claudin-6, occludin and MMP2 is related with the clinical properties of these tumors.

Methods

Expression of claudin-6, occludin, and MMP2 was detected in samples of human ovarian cancer tissues by immunohistochemistry and correlated with the clinical properties of the tumors.

Results

The positive expression rates of claudin-6 and MMP-2 were higher in ovarian papillary serous carcinomas than n ovarian serous adenomas (P < 0.05). There were no differences in the expression of occludin (P > 0.05). The expression of claudin-6 and occludin in ovarian cancer was not correlated with patient age, pathological grade, clinical stage, and metastasis (P > 0.05). MMP-2 expression was enhanced with increased clinical stage and metastasis (P < 0.05), but was unrelated to patient age or tumor grade (P > 0.05). There were no apparent correlations between expression of claudin-6, occludin and MMP-2 in ovarian cancer tissue (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Our data suggest, for the first time, that the claudin-6 and MMP-2 are up-regulated in ovarian papillary serous carcinomas, MMP-2 expression was enhanced with increased clinical stage and metastasis. Claudin-6 and MMP-2 may play a positive role in the invasion and metastasis of ovarian cancer.

Virtual slides

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/1775628454106511.
Prognostic factors in nasopharyngeal carcinoma with synchronous liver metastasis: a retrospective study for the management of treatment
Authors: Tian Yun-Ming , Zeng Lei , Wang Feng-Hua , Liu Shuai , Guan Ying , Lu Tai-Xiang , Han Fei
Published: November 2013

Purpose

To retrospectively analyze the prognosis of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) initially presenting with liver metastasis, in order to identify independent prognostic factors to facilitate management of treatment.

Methods

Eighty-five patients with untreated NPC and synchronous liver metastasis, initially diagnosed between January 2000 and December 2009, were selected for this retrospective study. Seventy-eight received systemic chemotherapy, 32 underwent subsequent radiotherapy of the primary tumor, and 18 received local therapy for metastatic lesions. Clinical features, laboratory parameters and treatment modalities were compared by univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

The median survival time was 19.0 months and the 3-year overall survival rate was 14.1%. The overall response and disease control rates were 70.4% and 86.4%, respectively. Significant predictors of short survival were KPS ≤ 70 (P = 0.03), serum lactate dehydrogenase levels >245 IU/l (P = 0.01) and poor response to chemotherapy (P < 0.01). In contrast, significantly longer survival rates were achieved by patients having at least six chemotherapy cycles compared to those receiving <6 cycles (3-year OS: 18.3% vs. 7.1%; P < 0.01), and patients receiving radiotherapy of the primary tumor following complete or partial response to chemotherapy (3-year OS: 30.8% vs. 3.8%, P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Five key independent factors were identified and sub-classified as potential prognostic indicators for NPC with liver metastases. Progressive treatments of systemic chemotherapy and radiotherapy at the primary tumor could prolong survival in the subset of patients having fewer negative prognosticators.
A reliable and effective method of DNA isolation from old human blood paper cards
Authors: Song Yang , Fahs Abrahim , Feldman Charles , Shah Suraj , Gu Yali , Wang Yifan , Machado Roberto F , Wunderink Richard G , Chen Jiwang
Published: November 2013

Blood paper cards provide an effective DNA storage method. In this study, we used three DNA dissolving reagents (Tris-EDTA [TE] buffer, Tris–HCl buffer, and water) and one common commercially available kit (DN131 from MRC Inc) to elute DNA from 105 human blood paper cards collected up to 10 years ago. These DNA samples were used as templates for amplification of a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP, C125T) region of human caspase-12 by PCR and a specific Taqman genotyping assay using the same amount of DNA. We show that DNA isolated by Tris–HCl buffer has higher yield and quality in comparison to DN131 solution. PCR success rate to amplify caspase-12 C125T SNP using Tris–HCl is comparable to the method using DN131 (89.5% vs 87.6%). The Taqman genotyping success rate using Tris–HCl is higher than using DN131 (81.9% vs 70.5%). Using TE or water, PCR success rates are lower than using DN131 (73.3% [TE]; 72.4% [H2O]), but Taqman genotyping success rates are comparable to the method using DN131 (70.5% [TE]; 79.1% [H2O]). We concluded that using Tris–HCl is a reliable and effective method to elute DNA from old human blood paper cards. The crude DNA isolated by Tris–HCl can be used to study genetic polymorphisms in human populations.
Bruton's tyrosine kinase—an integral protein of B cell development that also has an essential role in the innate immune system
Authors: López-Herrera Gabriela , Vargas-Hernández Alexander , González-Serrano Maria Edith , Berrón-Ruiz Laura , Rodríguez-Alba Juan Carlos , Espinosa-Rosales Francisco , Santos-Argumedo Leopoldo
Published: November 2013

Btk is the protein affected in XLA, a disease identified as a B cell differentiation defect. Btk is crucial for B cell differentiation and activation, but its role in other cells is not fully understood. This review focuses on the function of Btk in monocytes, neutrophils, and platelets and the receptors and signaling cascades in such cells with which Btk is associated.
A time delay gene circuit is required for palp formation in the ascidian embryo
Authors: Ikeda Tatsuro , Matsuoka Terumi , Satou Yutaka
Published: November 2013

The ascidian larval brain and palps (a putative rudimentary placode) are specified by two transcription factor genes, ZicL and FoxC, respectively. FGF9/16/20 induces ZicL expression soon after the bi-potential ancestral cells divide into the brain and palp precursors at the early gastrula stage. FGF9/16/20 begins to be expressed at the 16-cell stage, and induces several target genes, including Otx, before the gastrula stage. Here, we show that ZicL expression in the brain lineage is transcriptionally repressed by Hes-a and two Blimp-1-like zinc finger proteins, BZ1 and BZ2, in the bi-potential ancestral cells. ZicL is precociously expressed in the bi-potential cells in embryos in which these repressors are knocked down. This precocious ZicL expression produces extra brain cells at the expense of palp cells. The expression of BZ1 and BZ2 is turned off by a negative auto-feedback loop. This auto-repression acts as a delay circuit that prevents ZicL from being expressed precociously before the brain and palp fates split, thereby making room within the neural plate for the palps to be specified. Addition of the BZ1/2 delay timer circuit to the gene regulatory network responsible for brain formation might represent a key event in the acquisition of the primitive palps/placodes in an ancestral animal.
High-fertility phenotypes: two outbred mouse models exhibit substantially different molecular and physiological strategies warranting improved fertility
Authors: Langhammer Martina , Michaelis Marten , Hoeflich Andreas , Sobczak Alexander , Schoen Jennifer , Weitzel Joachim M
Published: November 2013

Animal models are valuable tools in fertility research. Worldwide, there are more than 400 transgenic or knockout mouse models available showing a reproductive phenotype; almost all of them exhibit an infertile or at least subfertile phenotype. By contrast, animal models revealing an improved fertility phenotype are barely described. This article summarizes data on two outbred mouse models exhibiting a ‘high-fertility’ phenotype. These mouse lines were generated via selection over a time period of more than 40 years and 161 generations. During this selection period, the number of offspring per litter and the total birth weight of the entire litter nearly doubled. Concomitantly with the increased fertility phenotype, several endocrine parameters (e.g. serum testosterone concentrations in male animals), physiological parameters (e.g. body weight, accelerated puberty, and life expectancy), and behavioral parameters (e.g. behavior in an open field and endurance fitness on a treadmill) were altered. We demonstrate that the two independently bred high-fertility mouse lines warranted their improved fertility phenotype using different molecular and physiological strategies. The fertility lines display female- as well as male-specific characteristics. These genetically heterogeneous mouse models provide new insights into molecular and cellular mechanisms that enhance fertility. In view of decreasing fertility in men, these models will therefore be a precious information source for human reproductive medicine.

Translated abstract

A German translation of abstract is freely available athttp://www.reproduction-online.org/content/147/4/427/suppl/DC1.
Changes in snowfall/precipitation-day ratio in Slovakia and their linkages with air temperature and precipitation
Authors: Nikolova Nina , Faško Pavol , Lapin Milan , Švec Marek
Published: November 2013

Knowledge on snowfall and precipitation variability is one of the most important information about climate changes. The presented study is based on daily data for precipitation totals and new snow cover depths and monthly air temperature from 29 meteorological stations in Slovakia. The aim is to determine to what extent the change of monthly air temperature mean affects the snowfall in the mountainous area of Slovakia. In order to achieve the aim of the research work, the snow days and precipitation days (SD/PD) ratio is calculated for the months from October to April and the trend is investigated. On the basis of correlation analysis it is determined that the main factor for changes in the SD/PD ratio is the mean monthly air temperature while precipitation plays an important role only for the stations with the altitude above 1300 m. Spatial distribution of the changes in the SD/PD ratio for the winter time (December - January - February) during the period 1981-2011 was investigated by cluster analyses. The results show that the stations are grouped according to their geographical location and relief of the territory.
Bug Tracking Systems as Public Spheres
Authors: Reagle, Joseph ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: November 2013

Based upon literature that argues technology, and even simple classification systems, embody cultural values, I ask if software bug tracking systems are similarly value laden. I make use of discourse within and around Web browser software development to identify specific discursive values, adopted from Ferree et al.'s "normative criteria for the public sphere," and conclude by arguing that such systems mediate community concerns and are subject to contested interpretations by their users.
Evaluation and assimilation of ATMS data in the ECMWF system
Authors: Bormann Niels , Fouilloux Anne , Bell William
Published: November 2013

This paper reports on the first experiences with Advanced Technology Microwave Sounder (ATMS) data at the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF), both in terms of the contribution to the calibration/validation exercise and in terms of initial assimilation trials. Comparisons in antenna temperature space against short‐term forecasts are used to establish the fidelity of the data. Monitoring of ATMS data against short‐term forecasts shows that the data are generally of good quality, with a noise performance that is well within specification and after appropriate averaging, comparable to or better than that of the Advanced Microwave Sounding Unit‐A (AMSU‐A). Biases vary smoothly with scan positions, even before an appropriate antenna pattern correction has been established, and ATMS looks better than AMSU‐A in this regard. Outer scan positions can be assimilated without restrictions due to biases, and together with the wider swath, this leads to a better coverage from one ATMS compared to one AMSU‐A. There are indications of larger interchannel and spatial error correlations in ATMS data than for AMSU‐A, possibly linked to a weak striping effect. The analysis and forecast impact in initial assimilation trials over two seasons are significantly positive in the short range over the Southern Hemisphere and in the long range over the Northern Hemisphere, with an otherwise overall neutral impact. Experiments in the context of a depleted observing system suggest that ATMS gives a comparable forecast impact to that from a single AMSU‐A/Microwave Humidity Sounder combination.
Achieving High Rate Performance in Layered Hydroxide Supercapacitor Electrodes
Authors: Wang Xu , Yan Chaoyi , Sumboja Afriyanti , Yan Jian , Lee Pooi See
Published: November 2013

Layered hydroxides (LHs) are promising supercapacitor electrode materials with high specific capacitances. However, they generally exhibit poor energy storage ability at high current densities due to their insulating nature. Nickel‐cobalt‐aluminum LHs are synthesized and chemically treated to form LHs with enhanced conductivity that results in greatly enhanced rate performances. The key role of chemical treatment is to enable the partial conversion of Co2+ to a more conductive Co3+ state that stimulates charge transfers. Simultaneously, the defects on the LHs caused by the selective etching of Al promoted the electrolyte diffusion within LHs. As a result, the LHs show a high specific capacitance of 738 F g−1 at 30 A g−1, which is 57.2% of 1289 F g−1 at 1 A g−1. The strategy provides a facile and effective method to achieve high performance LHs for supercapacitor electrode materials.
Brief Report: Lysyl Oxidase Is a Potential Biomarker of Fibrosis in Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Rimar Doron , Rosner Itzhak , Nov Yuval , Slobodin Gleb , Rozenbaum Michael , Halasz Katy , Haj Tharwat , Jiries Nizar , Kaly Lisa , Boulman Nina , Daood Rula , Vadasz Zahava
Published: November 2013

Objective

Fibrosis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in systemic sclerosis (SSc). Levels of lysyl oxidase (LOX), an extracellular enzyme that stabilizes collagen fibrils, have been found to be elevated in the skin of SSc patients, but have not been evaluated in the serum or correlated with the clinical parameters. We undertook this study to evaluate serum LOX levels in SSc patients and to correlate these levels with clinical parameters of SSc.

Methods

SSc patients were evaluated for demographic features, clinical manifestations, routine laboratory tests, serum autoantibodies, serum LOX concentrations, and nailfold capillaroscopy patterns. They underwent pulmonary function testing, echocardiography, and high‐resolution computed tomography scans of the lung, assessment of skin fibrosis by the modified Rodnan skin thickness score (MRSS), and assessment of disease severity and activity by the Medsger severity scale and the Valentini activity index.

Results

Twenty‐six SSc patients were evaluated and compared with 25 healthy controls and with 9 disease control patients with primary myelofibrosis. Almost 62% of the SSc patients (16 of 26) had limited cutaneous SSc (lcSSc), while 38% had diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc) (10 of 26); 31% of the patients (8 of 26) had lung involvement. The LOX concentration in SSc patients was higher than that in healthy controls and similar to that in disease controls (P < 0.0001), and it was significantly higher in patients with dcSSc than in those with lcSSc (P = 0.006). The LOX concentration correlated with the MRSS in patients without lung fibrosis.

Conclusion

This study is the first to demonstrate high serum LOX levels in SSc patients that correlate specifically with skin fibrosis. These correlations suggest that LOX levels may serve as a novel biomarker of fibrosis. Future studies are warranted to determine whether LOX is a potential therapeutic target in SSc.
Reciprocal Activation of CD4+ T Cells and Synovial Fibroblasts by Stromal Cell–Derived Factor 1 Promotes RANKL Expression and Osteoclastogenesis in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Kim Hae‐Rim , Kim Kyoung‐Woon , Kim Bo‐Mi , Jung Hong‐Geun , Cho Mi‐La , Lee Sang‐Heon
Published: November 2013

Objective

Stromal cell–derived factor 1 (SDF‐1) is a chemokine that is involved in the bone‐destructive process in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and bony metastasis in malignancy. This study was undertaken to determine the role and mechanism of SDF‐1 in RA‐associated osteoclastogenesis.

Methods

The expression of SDF‐1, tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), and RANKL in RA synovial tissue was analyzed using confocal microscopy. After synovial fibroblasts and CD4+ T cells were treated with SDF‐1, RANKL messenger RNA expression was determined by real‐time and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Osteoclastogenesis was assessed by counting tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase–positive multinucleated cells in CD14+ monocytes cultured with SDF‐1 in the presence of anticytokine antibodies or signal inhibitors and in monocytes cocultured with SDF‐1–pretreated synovial fibroblasts and CD4+ T cells.

Results

RANKL, TNFα, and SDF‐1 were coexpressed in the lining and sublining of RA synovium. SDF‐1 stimulated RANKL expression in RA synovial fibroblasts and CD4+ T cells, and TNFα inhibition reduced this stimulation. When monocytes isolated from human peripheral blood were cultured with SDF‐1, they were differentiated into osteoclasts in the absence of RANKL. Monocytes were also differentiated into osteoclasts when they were cocultured with SDF‐1–pretreated synovial fibroblasts or CD4+T cells; however, this osteoclastogenesis was reduced by TNFα inhibition.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that SDF‐1 induces osteoclastogenesis directly and indirectly via up‐regulating RANKL expression in RA synovial fibroblasts and CD4+ T cells, and that this is mediated by TNFα. The axis of SDF‐1 and RANKL is a potential therapeutic target for RA‐associated bone destruction.
High‐throughput extraction of ‐carotene from Blakeslea trispora based on a newly developed setup
Authors: Dong Hong‐Wei , Li Hong‐Quan , Xu Da‐Gang , Wu Xiang‐Yang , Wu Xin‐Sen , Zhong Jian‐Jiang
Published: November 2013

Rapid and efficient extraction of bioactive compounds from biomass for sample analysis presents one of the major challenges in high‐productive strain screening and bioprocess development. In this work, a high‐throughput method based on a new setup was developed for the extraction of ‐carotene from Blakeslea trispora. After the cell was completely disrupted by high‐throughput machinery grinding, ‐carotene was completely extracted by chloroform and dimethylsulfoxide (1:1, v/v). According to the experimental results, the newly developed high‐throughput extraction (HTPE) method could simultaneously process 96 samples within 30 Min, and only 5‐mL solvent was used for each sample. The sufficient extraction of ‐carotene by the HTPE method, which was confirmed by the conventional reference extraction method, further demonstrated that the newly developed HTPE method was more efficient and economical than the methods developed previously for the extraction of ‐carotene.