bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HIF1A and MIF as potential predictive mRNA biomarkers of pre-eclampsia: a longitudinal prospective study in high risk population
Authors: Galbiati Silvia , Inversetti Annalisa , Causarano Vincenza , Stenirri Stefania , Soriani Nadia , Ambrosi Alessandro , Valsecchi Luca , Candiani Massimo , Cremonesi Laura , Ferrari Maurizio , Smid Maddalena
Published: December 2014

Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a hypertensive multisystem disorder, causing significant fetal-maternal mortality and morbidity worldwide. This study aims to define possible longitudinal predictive mRNA markers involved in the main pathogenic pathways of PE: inflammation [macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF)], hypoxia and oxidative stress [hypoxia inducible factor 1-α subunit (HIF1A) and β-site APP-cleaving enzyme-2 (BACE2)] and endothelial dysfunction [endoglin (ENG), fms-related tyrosine kinase-1 (FLT1) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)].

Peripheral blood was collected from 33 singleton pregnancies characterized by a high cardiovascular profile risk sampled consecutively at 6–16; 17–23; 24–30; 31–34; ≥35 weeks followed by the Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit of the San Raffaele Hospital in Milan. A real-time quantitative PCR reaction was performed on plasma RNA.

Of the 33 women enrolled, nine developed PE. Until 23 weeks HIF1A was significantly higher in women who later developed PE compared to women who did not (p=0.049 and p=0.012 in the first and second blood collection). In the third time interval MIF (p=0.0005), FLT1 (p=0.024), ENG (p=0.0034) and BACE2 (p=0.044) appeared to be significantly increased while HIF1A was elevated even from 24 week onwards but not reaching the statistical significance. In the fourth time interval ENG mRNA still remained increased (p=0.037).

HIF1A, marker of hypoxia and oxidative stress, and MIF, marker of inflammation, seemed to be the most promising RNA markers, suggesting that hypoxia, principally, and inflammation may play an important role in PE pathogenesis.
Magnetoliposomes: opportunities and challenges
Authors: Monnier Christophe A. , Burnand David , Rothen-Rutishauser Barbara , Lattuada Marco , Petri-Fink Alke
Published: December 2014

Combining liposomes with magnetic nanoparticles is an intriguing approach to create multifunctional vesicles for medical applications, which range from controlled drug delivery vehicles to diagnostic imaging enhancers. Over the past decade, significant effort has been invested in developing such hybrids – widely known as magnetoliposomes – and has led to numerous new concepts. This review provides an overview on of the current state of the art in this field. The concept of magnetic fluid hyperthermia and stimuli-responsive nanoparticles for drug delivery is briefly recapitulated. The materials needed for these hybrids are addressed as well. The three typically followed approaches to associate magnetic nanoparticles to the liposomes are described and discussed more in detail. The final chapters are dedicated to the analytical methods used to characterize these hybrids and to theoretical considerations relevant for bilayer-embedded nanoparticles.
Synthesis, characterization, and crystallization of biodegradable poly(ε-caprolactone)-poly(L-lactide) diblock copolymers
Authors: Luo Song , Peng Xinyu , Chen Ying , Su Ting , Cao Jun , Li Sai , He Bin
Published: December 2014

Three diblock copolymers of PCL6k-PLLA2k, PCL6k-PLLA4k, and PCL6k-PLLA6k were prepared and their crystallization behaviors were investigated. The molecular weights of the copolymers calculated from 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectra were equivalent to the designed molecular weights. The gel permeation chromatography spectra of the copolymers showed one peak, which revealed that the copolymers were monodisperse. The crystallization capability of poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) decreased and that of poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) increased when the molecular weight of the PLLA block was increased from 2k to 6k. PCL spherulites in the PCL6k-PLLA2k copolymer film were smaller than those in PCL6k-PLLA4k or PCL6k-PLLA6k copolymer film. PCL spherulites in the PCL6k-PLLA2k copolymer film grew fastest within all three diblock copolymers. An obvious phase separation phenomenon was observed on the surface of PCL6k-PLLA6k copolymer film in atomic force microscopy images.
In women, no significant variances of calculated free testosterone (cFT) are observed when a fixed value of albumin (Alb: 4.3 g/dL) is used instead of measured albumin values
Authors: Garcia-Banigan Dinamarie , Guay Andre , Traish Abdul , Doros Gheorghe , Gawoski John
Published: December 2014

Background: Calculated free testosterone (cFT) is determined from the values of total testosterone (TT), sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), and albumin (Alb) using mathematical formulae. We evaluated any potential cFT variance when determined with fixed Alb (4.3 g/dL) compared to measured Alb, and the point at which low SHBG and Alb combinations produced significant cFT variance.

Materials: We analyzed 2050 data points in 1222 women. cFT values with fixed vs. the actual measured Alb values were evaluated and contrasted. cFT levels were determined theoretically for all possible combinations of TT, SHBG, and Alb.

Methods: Agreement between the two measures was assessed with Lin’s concordance coefficient. Statistical analyses were performed using R software version 2.12.1.

Results: Mean Alb was 4.05±0.30 g/dL. Mean SHBG 73.0±53.3 nmol/L. A fixed Alb of 4.3 g/dL produced no significant variance for most evaluations of cFT. The accuracy decreased with Alb ≤3.5 g/dL in combination with SHBG ≤30 nmol/L and exists in 1.0% of the samples.

Conclusions: A fixed Alb of 4.3 g/dL is acceptable for most clinical evaluations. If Alb is ≤3.5 g/dL, along with SHBG ≤30 nmol/L, the variance increases and a free testosterone (FT) measurement by equilibrium dialysis is warranted for better accuracy.
Age-associated (cardio)metabolic diseases and cross-talk between adipose tissue and skeleton: endocrine aspects
Authors: Migliaccio Silvia , Greco Emanuela A. , Aversa Antonio , Lenzi Andrea
Published: December 2014

Aged individuals continue to increase in number, and it is important to understand the pathophysiological mechanisms of age-related changes in order to develop interventions that could contribute to “successful aging”. Metabolic and hormonal factors, age-related changes in body composition, and a decline in physical activity are all involved in the tendency to lose muscle mass, to gain fat mass, and, also, to experience bone loss. Obesity, sarcopenia, and osteoporosis are important widespread health problems that lead to high prevalence of both mortality and morbidity. Indeed, during the last decades, obesity and osteoporosis have become a major health threat around the world. Aging increases the risk of developing obesity, sarcopenia, osteoporosis, and, also, cardiovascular diseases. A reduction of both bone and muscle mass with a corresponding increase of fat mass and inflammation and hormonal imbalance in the elderly lead to and may synergistically increase cardiovascular diseases. This review will focus on the relationship among these different medical situations, trying to clarify the cellular and molecular mechanisms.
PPARγ mutations, lipodystrophy and diabetes
Authors: Astapova Olga , Leff Todd
Published: December 2014

The focus of this review is the lipodystrophy syndrome caused by mutation in the PPARγ nuclear receptor – partial familial lipodystrophy FPLD3. To provide a broader context for how these mutations act to generate the clinical features of partial lipodystrophy we will review the basic biology of PPARγ and also survey the set PPARγ genetic variants that do not cause lipodystrophy, but are nonetheless associated with clinically related syndromes, specifically type 2 diabetes.
Nutrition: a promising route for prevention and management of obesity-related nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Tarantino Giovanni
Published: December 2014

When dealing with the treatment of obesity-linked illnesses – in particular nonalcoholic fatty liver disease – beyond diet, various nutritional ingredients are reported to be useful as silymarin, spirulina, choline, folic acid, methionine and vitamin E, all of them showing promising but not definite results. An emerging field of study is represented by prebiotics/probiotics and restoration of normal gut flora, which could play a fundamental role diet and various its components. It is noteworthy to point out that both improving or reducing the severity of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease bear a positive consequence on evolution of atherosclerosis and its cardiovascular-associated disease, such as coronary artery disease, even though the involved immunologic mechanisms are gaining greater credit in the most recent literature, without excluding the role of nutrition in modulating the acquired immunity in this condition.
Effects of lifetime tobacco, alcohol and drug use on psychological and behavioral problems among 10th grade students in Istanbul
Authors: Evren Cuneyt , Evren Bilge , Bozkurt Muge , Ciftci-Demirci Arzu
Published: December 2014

Aims: The aim of this study was to determine the effects of life-time tobacco, alcohol, and substance use on psychological and behavioral variables among 10th grade students in Istanbul/Turkey.

Materials and methods: This study employed a cross-sectional online self-report survey conducted in 45 schools from the 15 districts in Istanbul. The questionnaire featured a section about use of substances, including tobacco, alcohol, and drugs. The depression, anxiety, anger, assertiveness, sensation seeking and impulsiveness subscales of the Psychological Screening Test for Adolescents (PSTA) were used. The analyses were conducted based on 4957 subjects.

Results: Logistic regression analyses were conducted with each school with the related and behavioral variables as the dependent variables. Gender, tobacco, alcohol, and drug use being the independent variables. All four independent variables predicted the dependent variables. Lifetime tobacco and drug use had significant effects on all the subscale score, whereas lifetime alcohol use had significant effects on all the subscale scores other than lack of assertiveness, and male gender was a significant covariant for all the subscale scores. Drug use showed the highest effect on dependent variables. Interaction was found between effects of tobacco and alcohol on anxiety, whereas interactions were found between effects of tobacco and drugs on lack of assertiveness and impulsiveness.

Conclusion: The findings suggested that male students with lifetime tobacco, alcohol or drug use have particularly high risk of psychological and behavioral problems. The unique effects of substance clusters on these problems may be useful in developing secondary preventive practices for substance use and abuse problems in Istanbul.
Safety and Security in Fresh Good Supply Chain
Authors: Bruzzone Agostino G. , Longo Francesco , Massei Marina , Nicoletti Letizia , Agresta Matteo
Published: December 2014

This paper proposes a model aimed at investigating safety and security issues in fresh good supply chain. Particular attention is paid on fresh goods contamination since the increasing complexity of supply chains makes these events more likely to happen. To this end, a discrete event simulator (DES) underpinned by an analytical model has been developed as a support tool for prevention and mitigation. Indeed, the simulation model is able to recreate the disruption wave propagation along the supply chain due to a contamination event as well as the effects on the dynamic evolution of contaminated products demand taking into account complex phenomena like media campaigns. In addition, even the economic impacts in terms of costs (i.e. transportation costs, inventory costs, and lost sales) can be assessed. The potentials of the proposed simulation framework have been investigated in a real case study of a fresh food supply chain located in the north of Italy.
Optimization of Gluten-Free Cake Prepared from Chestnut Flour and Transglutaminase: Response Surface Methodology Approach
Authors: Yildiz Önder , Dogan Ismail Sait
Published: December 2014

In this study, the possible usage of chestnut flour in gluten-free cake formulation was investigated. Response surface methodology was used to evaluate the effects of water, xanthan and guar gum mixture and potato starch. Crust and crumb attributes, sensory and textural properties of the cake samples were investigated. Considering all cake properties, better results were obtained by increasing xanthan gum in the gum blend. Increasing the amount of potato starch in the chestnut flour–potato starch blend decreased the batter density, consistency, hardness and chewiness, but increased the specific volume, cohesiveness and scores of the interior and exterior attributes. Optimum concentration of gum mixture was found as 0.225% xanthan gum, 0.075% guar gum and ratio of chestnut flour to potato starch was 7:3. Then, four different levels of transglutaminase were added to control and optimized gluten-free cake formula. The highest desirability value was obtained in gluten-free formula containing 0.25% transglutaminase. According to the results of the sensory analyses, no significant difference was observed between control and gluten-free cake.
Effect of Pulsed Electric Field on Freeze-Drying of Potato Tissue
Authors: Wu Yali , Zhang Dongguang
Published: December 2014

The influence of pulsed electric field (PEF) on the drying behavior of potato was investigated, and the optimal parameters were determined. Drying experiments were conducted with different PEF pre-treatments. The effects of process parameters of PEF pre-treatment were examined with respect to drying rate, drying time, productivity per unit area, and energy consumption. Results showed that the three parameters investigated were significant in the following sequence: pulse number, electric field strength, and pulse width. The optimal electric field strength, pulse width, and pulse number were 1,500 V cm−1, 120 μs, and 45 pulses, respectively. Under these optimal conditions, productivity per unit area increased by 32.28%, specific energy consumption decreased by 16.59%, drying time was shortened by 31.47%, and drying rate improved by 14.31% compared with the control group.
Derivation of the mechanical and thermodynamic potentials from the
generalized BMP model under shear-banding flow
Authors: Castillo Hugo A. , Castillo Tejas Jorge , García-Sandoval Juan Paulo , Matus Oscar , Bautista Fernando , Puig Jorge E. , Manero Octavio
Published: December 2014

In this work, we demonstrate that the thermodynamic potential calculated
from the steady-state flow curve using the definition of free energy
from irreversible thermodynamics, and the mechanical potential derived
from the generalized BMP constitutive equation provide the same information
in the unstable and metastable regions of the flow curve. The contribution
of normal stresses in both potentials as well as its weight on the
position of the stress plateau are explicitly exposed. The plateau
stress is univocally defined by the location of the critical shear rates corresponding to the minima in the potential. This demonstration
is carried out using experimental data of wormlike micellar solutions
for various concentrations and temperatures, including regions close
to the non-equilibrium critical point.
A method to accurately determine
the non-equilibrium critical point (or the critical temperature) in
a direct form is provided here. Bifurcation points are defined, notably
one located at the high shear-rate branch of the flow curve separating
the regions of one real solution and three real solutions.
The first normal stress difference exhibits three real solutions as sources of elastic instabilities in the high shear band. The contribution of the second
normal-stress difference in both the mechanical and thermodynamic
potentials is clearly exposed. These results demonstrate that the
non-equilibrium phase transition and the mechanical instability as
sources of the banded flow are essentially two manifestations of the
same reality.
An Optical OFDM Modem with Adaptive Volterra Equalizer
Authors: Tawade Laxman , Pinjarkar Umesh , Awade Kavita , Bapu Aboobacker Abida , Gosavi Manisha , Bhatlawande Yogeshwari
Published: December 2014

It addresses orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) transmission over optical links with high spectral efficiency, i.e. by using high-order quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) schemes as a mapping method prior to the OFDM multicarrier representation. Here we address especially coherent optical OFDM modem in long distance which is affected by nonlinear distortion caused by fiber nonlinearity. Fiber nonlinearity is a majo performance-limiting factor in advanced optical communication systems. We proposed a nonlinear electrical equalization scheme based on the Volterra model. To compare with other popular linear compensation technique such as the least mean square (LMS), simulation results are presented to demonstrate the capability of a Volterra model based electrical equalizer used in a coherent optical orthogonal frequency division multiplexing system. It is shown that the Volterra model based equalizer can significantly reduce nonlinear distortion.
Uncertainty quantification of world population growth: A self-similar PDF model
Authors: Heinz Stefan
Published: December 2014

The uncertainty of world population growth represents a serious global problem. Existing methods for quantifying this uncertainty face a variety of questions. An essential problem of these methods is the lack of direct evidence for their validity, for example by means of comparisons with independent observations like measurements. A way to support the validity of such forecast methods is to validate these models with reference models, which play the role of independent observations. Desired properties of such a reference model are formulated here. A new reference world population model is formulated by a probabilistic extension of recent deterministic UN projections. This model is validated in terms of theory and observations: it is shown that the model has all desired properties of a reference model, and its predictions are very well supported by the known world population development from 1980 till 2010. Applications of this model as a reference model demonstrate the advantages of the stochastic world population model presented here.
Einen Zedel fechter ich mich ruem/Im Schwerd vnd Messer vngestuem. Fechtmeister als Protagonisten und als (fach-)literarisches Motiv in den deutschsprachigen Fechtlehren des Mittelalters und der Frühen Neuzeit
Authors: Bauer Matthias Johannes
Published: December 2014

The group of fencing masters of the 14th to 16th century is investigated according to their function as a literary motif in fencing treatises written in German. One example is the attribution of a particular set of instructions to ‘mystical’ founding figures like Johannes Liechtenauer‚ who serves as an authentication strategy and proof of authority of the particular record. The texts themselves claim to record mnemonics of traditional teachings that were originally only passed down orally in an encrypted language. Here the mnemonics attributed to the original master remain unchanged and are merely interpreted and commented on. Analogies to bible exegesis that support the creation myth surrounding Johannes Liechtenauer become apparent. This phenomenon exists side by side with a synchronic polemic against false masters (
‘The Military Mirror of Kai’: Swordsmanship and a Medieval Text in Early Modern Japan
Authors: Wert Michael
Published: December 2014

Swordsmanship emerged as a new field of knowledge in early modern Japan (1600–1868), a time of relative peace. During the most violent periods of Japanese history, the latter half of the medieval period (1185–1600), samurai conducted warfare mostly on horseback, using the bow and arrow, or by leading massive armies filled with soldiers who used pikes, halberds, and even firearms. In this paper, I will trace the origins of early modern swordsmanship to the late 16th century during the transition between the medieval and early modern periods, when teachers of swordsmanship and their sword ‘styles’ first appeared in texts. Of these texts I will focus on ‘The Military Mirror of Kai’, purportedly written during the late 16th century, and a widely-read text among samurai of the early modern period. A mix of fact and fiction, the ‘Mirror’ became a source of fantasy and inspiration for samurai and non-samurai alike. It is also the earliest source of writing about swordsmanship, which was influenced by, and grew alongside, other medieval cultural arts such as
Numerical study of filling strategies in vacuum assisted resin transfer molding process
Authors: Chang Chih-Yuan
Published: December 2014

During the filling process of vacuum assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM), the infusion pressure gradient causes the resin flow and preform thickness variation. Even after the resin infusion discontinues, the resin keeps on flowing until the unnecessary resin is removed. In this study, a one-dimensional flow model coupled to the preform deformation is numerically analyzed to assess the influences of various processing scenarios on the infusion and post-infusion stages. The numerical model is implemented using a finite difference method. Results show that two strategies effectively reduce the filling process. One is to infuse less excess resin and the other is to turn the inlet into the additional vent. For a typical process using a one-sided vent, the theoretically optimum scenario is to infuse the exact required resin volume into the preform. From a practical standpoint, excess resin infusion is inevitable and a robust scenario is proposed by integrating the concept of fully filled preform and two strategies. Additional cases are performed using a vacuum assisted compression RTM (VACRTM) process for comparison purposes. Through the numerical work, a tool for optimization of the VARTM process is provided to reduce the filling process, resin waste and variability in the final composite part.
The Gods’ Horses and Tripartite Souls in Plato’s Phaedrus
Authors: Hoinski David , Polansky Ronald
Published: December 2014

The elaborate imagery regarding souls and gods in the Palinode in Plato’s
On Antiochus’ Moral Psychology
Authors: Brunner Ákos
Published: December 2014

The paper seeks to show that there is more to Antiochus’ moral psychology than has been appreciated in previous studies. Section I) deals with the apparent evidence on Antiochus’ psychological dualism in Cicero’s
Investigation on corrosion performance of multilayer Ni-P/TiO2 composite coating on steel
Authors: Sahayaraj M. Edwin , Jappes J.T. Winowlin , Siva I. , Rajini N.
Published: December 2014

Electroless nickel coating treatment improves the corrosion resistance of mild steel. This work aims at studying the corrosion behavior of electroless Ni-P/TiO2 composite and multilayer coatings applied to the mild steel substrate as their as-plated state and furnace annealed at various temperatures and compared both the coatings’ corrosion performance. The corrosion behavior of the deposits was evaluated by potentiodynamic polarization studies in 3.5 wt% sodium chloride solution. The results showed that the corrosion resistance of the multilayer coating was two times higher compared to the composite coatings. Further, the corrosion mechanism was discussed in terms of microstructure, phase transformation, grain size, and microstrain.
Von »Israeliten« zu »Ausländern«: Zur Entwicklung anti-samaritanischer Polemik ab der hasmonäischen Zeit
Authors: Hensel Benedikt
Published: December 2014

In Josephus and in certain biblical traditions (Ezra/Neh; II Reg 17,24 ff.) the Samaritans are designated as »foreigners« who would have had nothing in common with Israel, so that violent conflicts would have developed between the two groups in the Persian and early Hellenistic periods. The article analyses the non-biblical sources in which the »foreigner-polemic« is attested. After its origins in Hasmonaean times (Sir 50,25), this polemic first becomes more extensive in Josephus (»Cuthaeans«). But it only found general circulation and full development in the Amoraic period (3rd cent. AD). It involves a purely literary polemic (»Othering«), since from a religious and cultural point of view Samaritans and Jews were only marginally distinct until the Byzantine period. Both belonged to »Israel«. The development of anti-Samaritan polemic is a further proof that conflicts between the Gerizim and Jerusalem communities only began in the 2nd cent. BC.

Les Samaritains sont désignés comme »étrangers« par Fl. Josèphe et par certaines traditions bibliques (Esdr. – Néh.; II Rois 17,24ss.): ils n’auraient rien en commun avec Israël, d’où les conflits violents qui se seraient développés entre ces deux groupes à l’époque perse et proto-hellénistique. Cette étude analyse les documents extra-bibliques qui font référence à cette polémique des »étrangers«. Après son apparition à l’époque hasmonéenne (Sir. 50,25), cette polémique est exposée plus largement chez Fl. Josèphe (»Cuthéens«). Elle ne se généralisera, pleinement exposée, qu’à l’époque amoréenne (3ème siècle ap. J.-C.): il s’agit alors d’une polémique purement littéraire, car du point de vue de l’histoire de la religion et de la culture, Samaritains et Judéens ne se distinguent guère jusqu’à l’époque byzantine. Les deux appartiennent à »Israël«. Cette évolution de la polémique anti-samaritaine constitue un témoignage supplémentaire que les tensions entre les communautés du Garizim et de Jérusalem ne débutent qu’au 2ème siècle av. J.-C.

Die Samaritaner werden bei Josephus und in bestimmten biblischen Traditionen (Esr/Neh; II Reg 17,24 ff.) als »Ausländer« bezeichnet, die mit Israel nichts gemein hätten, woraus sich heftige Streitigkeiten zwischen beiden Gruppen in persischer und früh-hellenistischer Zeit entwickelt hätten. Der Artikel analysiert die nicht-biblischen Evidenzen, in denen sich die »Ausländer«-Polemik belegen lässt. Nach Anfängen in der hasmonäischen Zeit (Sir 50,25) wird die Polemik erst bei Josephus breiter ausgeführt (»Kuthäer«). Allgemein verbreitet und voll ausgeformt wird diese allerdings erst in amoräischer Zeit (3. Jh. n. Chr.). Es handelt sich um eine rein literarische Polemik (»Othering«), denn religionswie kulturgeschichtlich unterscheiden sich Samaritaner und Judäer bis in byzantinische Zeit nur marginal voneinander. Beide zählen zu »Israel«. Die Entwicklung der anti-samaritanischen Polemik ist ein weiterer Beleg dafür, dass sich Streitigkeiten zwischen Garizim- und Jerusalemer Gemeinde erst im 2. Jh. v. Chr. entwickeln.
Prophetie, Weisheit und Gebet
Authors: Saur Markus
Published: December 2014

In the »Words of Agur« in Prov 30,1–9 it is possible to identify both motifs from the realm of the Psalms and especially prophetic forms of speech and motifs. This reflects a coming together of different theological traditions in the context of the history of the redaction and composition of the book of Proverbs. In addition, by their literary and theological resonances with certain parts of the books of Job and Qoheleth the »Words of Agur« bear witness to the attempt of the groups which transmitted them to anchor the critique of traditional knowledge and the challenge to human intellectual faculties, which were the central theme of Job and Qoheleth, within the book of Proverbs itself.

Dans les paroles d’Agûr en Prov. 30,1–9, on peut repérer, à côté de motifs provenant des Psaumes, des formes de discours et des motifs prophétiques qui reflètent une convergence de diverses traditions théologiques dans le cadre de l’histoire de la rédaction et de la composition du livre des Proverbes. A partir des échos littéraires et théologiques avec certaines sections des livres de Job et du Qohélèt, les paroles d’Agûr attestent de plus un essai de leur cercle de traditeurs d’ancrer déjà dans le livre des Proverbes ce qui constitue la thématique centrale des livres de Job et du Qohélèt, à savoir: la mise en question du savoir transmis et de l’interrogation quant aux possibilités de la connaissance humaine.

In den Worten Agurs in Prov 30,1–9 lassen sich neben Motiven aus dem Bereich der Psalmen vor allem prophetische Sprachformen und Motive herausarbeiten, die eine Konvergenz unterschiedlicher theologischer Traditionen im Kontext der Redaktions- und Kompositionsgeschichte des Proverbienbuches spiegeln. Aufgrund der literarischen und theologischen Anklänge an bestimmte Partien des Hiob- und Koheletbuches bezeugen die Worte Agurs darüber hinaus den Versuch ihrer Trägerkreise, das im Hiob- und Koheletbuch zentrale Motiv der Problematisierung überkommenen Wissens und der Infragestellung menschlicher Erkenntnisfähigkeiten bereits im Proverbienbuch zu verankern.
Protein acetylation affects acetate metabolism, motility and acid stress response in Escherichia coli
Authors: Castaño‐Cerezo Sara , Bernal Vicente , Post Harm , Fuhrer Tobias , Cappadona Salvatore , Sánchez‐Díaz Nerea C , Sauer Uwe , Heck Albert JR , Altelaar AF Maarten , Cánovas Manuel
Published: December 2014

Although protein acetylation is widely observed, it has been associated with few specific regulatory functions making it poorly understood. To interrogate its functionality, we analyzed the acetylome in Escherichia coli knockout mutants of cobB, the only known sirtuin‐like deacetylase, and patZ, the best‐known protein acetyltransferase. For four growth conditions, more than 2,000 unique acetylated peptides, belonging to 809 proteins, were identified and differentially quantified. Nearly 65% of these proteins are related to metabolism. The global activity of CobB contributes to the deacetylation of a large number of substrates and has a major impact on physiology. Apart from the regulation of acetyl‐CoA synthetase, we found that CobB‐controlled acetylation of isocitrate lyase contributes to the fine‐tuning of the glyoxylate shunt. Acetylation of the transcription factor RcsB prevents DNA binding, activating flagella biosynthesis and motility, and increases acid stress susceptibility. Surprisingly, deletion of patZ increased acetylation in acetate cultures, which suggests that it regulates the levels of acetylating agents. The results presented offer new insights into functional roles of protein acetylation in metabolic fitness and global cell regulation.
Measurements of plasma metanephrines by immunoassay vs liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry for diagnosis of pheochromocytoma
Authors: Weismann Dirk , Peitzsch Mirko , Raida Anna , Prejbisz Aleksander , Gosk Maria , Riester Anna , Willenberg Holger S , Klemm Reiner , Manz Georg , Deutschbein Timo , Kroiss Matthias , Därr Roland , Bidlingmaier Martin , Januszewicz Andrzej , Eisenhofer Graeme , Fassnacht Martin
Published: December 2014

Background

Reports conflict concerning measurements of plasma metanephrines (MNs) for diagnosis of pheochromocytomas/paragangliomas (PPGLs) by immunoassays compared with other methods. We aimed to compare the performance of a commercially available enzyme-linked immunoassay (EIA) kit with liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometric (LC–MS/MS) measurements of MNs to diagnose PPGLs.

Methods

In a substudy of a prospective, multicenter trial to study the biochemical profiles of monoamine-producing tumors, we included 341 patients (174 males and 167 females) with suspected PPGLs (median age 54 years), of whom 54 had confirmed PPGLs. Plasma MNs were measured by EIA and LC–MS/MS, each in a specialized laboratory.

Results

Plasma normetanephrine (NMN) and MN were measured 60 and 39% lower by EIA than by LC–MS/MS. Using upper cut-offs stipulated for the EIA, diagnostic sensitivity was only 74.1% at a specificity of 99.3%. In contrast, use of similar cut-offs for MN and overall lower age-adjusted cut-offs for NMN measured by LC–MS/MS returned a diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of 98.1 and 99.7%. Areas under receiver-operating characteristic curves, nevertheless, indicated comparable diagnostic performance of the EIA (0.993) and LC–MS/MS (0.985). Diagnostic sensitivity for the EIA increased to 96.2% with a minimal loss in specificity (95.1%) following use of cut-offs for the EIA adapted to correct for the negative bias.

Conclusions

The EIA underestimates plasma MNs and diagnostic sensitivity is poor using commonly stipulated cut-offs, resulting in a high risk for missing patients with PPGLs. Correction of this shortcoming can be achieved by appropriately determined cut-offs resulting in comparable diagnostic performance of EIA and LC–MS/MS assays.
The UGT1 locus is a determinant of prostate cancer recurrence after prostatectomy
Authors: Laverdière Isabelle , Flageole Christine , Audet-Walsh Étienne , Caron Patrick , Fradet Yves , Lacombe Louis , Lévesque Éric , Guillemette Chantal
Published: December 2014

The prognostic significance of common deletions in uridine diphospho-glucuronosyltransferase 2B (UGT2B) genes encoding sex steroid metabolic enzymes has been recently recognized in localized prostate cancer (PCa) after radical prostatectomy (RP). However, the role of germline variations at theUGT1locus, encoding half of all human UGTs and primarily involved in estrogen metabolism, remains unexplored. We investigated whether variants ofUGT1are potential prognostic markers. We studied 526 Caucasian men who underwent RP for clinically localized PCa. Genotypes of patients for 34 haplotype-tagged single-nucleotide polymorphisms (htSNPs) and 11 additional SNPs across theUGT1locus previously reported to mark common variants including functional polymorphisms were determined. The risk of biochemical recurrence (BCR) was estimated using adjusted Cox proportional hazards regression and Kaplan–Meier analysis. We further investigated whether variants are associated with plasma hormone levels by mass spectrometry. In multivariable models, seven htSNPs were found to be significantly associated with BCR. A greater risk was revealed for fourUGT1intronic variants with hazard ratios (HRs) of 1.59–1.88 (P<0.002) for htSNPs inUGT1A10,UGT1A9, andUGT1A6. Conversely, decreased BCR was associated with three htSNPs in introns ofUGT1A10andUGT1A9(HR=0.56–058;P≤0.01). An unfavorableUGT1haplotype comprising all risk alleles, with a frequency of 14%, had a HR of 1.68 (95% CI=1.13–2.50;P=0.011). Significant alteration in circulating androsterone levels was associated with this haplotype, consistent with changes in hormonal exposure. This study provides the first evidence, to our knowledge, that germline polymorphisms ofUGT1are potential predictors of recurrence of PCa after prostatectomy.
Parallel Profiling of Fission Yeast Deletion Mutants for Proliferation and for Lifespan During Long-Term Quiescence
Authors: Sideri Theodora , Rallis Charalampos , Bitton Danny A , Lages Bruno M , Suo Fang , Rodríguez-López María , Du Li-Lin , Bähler Jürg
Published: December 2014

Genetic factors underlying aging are remarkably conserved from yeast to human. The fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe is an emerging genetic model to analyze cellular aging. Chronological lifespan (CLS) has been studied in stationary-phase yeast cells depleted for glucose, which only survive for a few days. Here, we analyzed CLS in quiescent S. pombe cells deprived of nitrogen, which arrest in a differentiated, G0-like state and survive for more than 2 months. We applied parallel mutant phenotyping by barcode sequencing (Bar-seq) to assay pooled haploid deletion mutants as they aged together during long-term quiescence. As expected, mutants with defects in autophagy or quiescence were under-represented or not detected. Lifespan scores could be calculated for 1199 mutants. We focus the discussion on the 48 most long-lived mutants, including both known aging genes in other model systems and genes not previously implicated in aging. Genes encoding membrane proteins were particularly prominent as pro-aging factors. We independently verified the extended CLS in individual assays for 30 selected mutants, showing the efficacy of the screen. We also applied Bar-seq to profile all pooled deletion mutants for proliferation under a standard growth condition. Unlike for stationary-phase cells, no inverse correlation between growth and CLS of quiescent cells was evident. These screens provide a rich resource for further studies, and they suggest that the quiescence model can provide unique, complementary insights into cellular aging.
Mean of the Typical Decoding Rates: A New Translation Efficiency Index Based on the Analysis of Ribosome Profiling Data
Authors: Dana Alexandra , Tuller Tamir
Published: December 2014

Gene translation modeling and prediction is a fundamental problem that has numerous biomedical implementations. In this work we present a novel, user-friendly tool/index for calculating the mean of the typical decoding rates that enables predicting translation elongation efficiency of protein coding genes for different tissue types, developmental stages, and experimental conditions. The suggested translation efficiency index is based on the analysis of the organism’s ribosome profiling data. This index could be used for example to predict changes in translation elongation efficiency of lowly expressed genes that usually have relatively low and/or biased ribosomal densities and protein levels measurements, or can be used for example for predicting translation efficiency of new genetically engineered genes. We demonstrate the usability of this index via the analysis of six organisms in different tissues and developmental stages. Distributable cross platform application and guideline are available for download at: http://www.cs.tau.ac.il/~tamirtul/MTDR/MTDR_Install.html
Contact Photothermal Techniques for Thermal Characterization of Liquids
Authors: D.Dadarlat
Published: December 2014

Two contact photothermal (PT) techniques, the well-known photopyroelectric (PPE) calorimetry, and a recently introduced photothermoelectric (PTE) one, are proposed for thermal inspection of some liquid samples. The paper contains a summary of the recent results and a comparison of the investigations performed with the previously mentioned techniques for the measurement of the dynamic thermal parameters (thermal diffusivity and effusivity) of some liquids of interest: magnetic nanofluids with transformer oil as carrier liquid and various concentrations of magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles. For both techniques, the same detection configurations have been used: (i) the front detection configuration, together with the thermal-wave resonator cavity (TWRC) method as scanning procedure, was used to measure the value of thermal effusivity; (ii) the back configuration, together with the same TWRC technique, leads to the direct measurement of thermal diffusivity. The main theoretical aspects of the particular detection cases for both techniques are described and the performances (advantages and limitations) of the methods are analyzed. Concerning the nanofluid under investigation, small increases of thermal diffusivity (9.33 m2s-1 – 10.33 m2s-1) and effusivity (450 Ws1/2 m-2K-1 – 530 Ws1/2 m-2K-1) with increasing nanoparticles' concentration (0.156 mg(Fe3O4)/ml fluid - 0.623 mg(Fe3O4)/ml fluid) are observed.
Neuroimaging and Neurodevelopmental Outcome in Extremely Preterm Infants
Authors: Hintz Susan R. , Barnes Patrick D. , Bulas Dorothy , Slovis Thomas L. , Finer Neil N. , Wrage Lisa A. , Das Abhik , Tyson Jon E. , Stevenson David K. , Carlo Waldemar A. , Walsh Michele C. , Laptook Abbot R. , Yoder Bradley A. , Van Meurs Krisa P. , Faix Roger G. , Rich Wade , Newman Nancy S. , Cheng Helen , Heyne Roy J. , Vohr Betty R. , Acarregui Michael J. , Vaucher Yvonne E. , Pappas Athina , Peralta-Carcelen Myriam , Wilson-Costello Deanne E. , Evans Patricia W. , Goldstein Ricki F. , Myers Gary J. , Poindexter Brenda B. , McGowan Elisabeth C. , Adams-Chapman Ira , Fuller Janell , Higgins Rosemary D. ,   for the SUPPORT Study Group of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Neonatal Research Network
Published: December 2014

BACKGROUND:

Extremely preterm infants are at risk for neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI). Early cranial ultrasound (CUS) is usual practice, but near-term brain MRI has been reported to better predict outcomes. We prospectively evaluated MRI white matter abnormality (WMA) and cerebellar lesions, and serial CUS adverse findings as predictors of outcomes at 18 to 22 months’ corrected age.

METHODS:

Early and late CUS, and brain MRI were read by masked central readers, in a large cohort (n = 480) of infants <28 weeks’ gestation surviving to near term in the Neonatal Research Network. Outcomes included NDI or death after neuroimaging, and significant gross motor impairment or death, with NDI defined as cognitive composite score <70, significant gross motor impairment, and severe hearing or visual impairment. Multivariable models evaluated the relative predictive value of neuroimaging while controlling for other factors.

RESULTS:

Of 480 infants, 15 died and 20 were lost. Increasing severity of WMA and significant cerebellar lesions on MRI were associated with adverse outcomes. Cerebellar lesions were rarely identified by CUS. In full multivariable models, both late CUS and MRI, but not early CUS, remained independently associated with NDI or death (MRI cerebellar lesions: odds ratio, 3.0 [95% confidence interval: 1.3–6.8]; late CUS: odds ratio, 9.8 [95% confidence interval: 2.8–35]), and significant gross motor impairment or death. In models that did not include late CUS, MRI moderate-severe WMA was independently associated with adverse outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS:

Both late CUS and near-term MRI abnormalities were associated with outcomes, independent of early CUS and other factors, underscoring the relative prognostic value of near-term neuroimaging.
Adsorption process on fixed bed column in rich organic wastewater treatment experimental studies and numerical simulation
Authors: Khanh Nguyen Hong , Hoang Nguyen Viet
Published: December 2014

None axially dispersed plug flow model (NADPF) was applied to simulate adsorption process on fixed bed column. To determine model input parameters and verify the model, isotherm curve, solid diffusion coefficient (\(D_s\)) and breakthrough curve have been determined from experiment. Activated carbon SWW 210&220 was selected as the main adsorbent for research. Wastewater of Minhkhai Textile Company is the sample used in experiment study. According to isotherm function, textile wastewater is poorly adsorbed into SWW210&220. Kinetic data also show that diffusion step of textile wastewater is very slow (DS ~ 1.31*\(10^{-13}\) m\(^2\)/s). With textile wastewater, NADPF model can be used to simulate adsorption process.
A new method for determining the reactions of mechanical constraints
Authors: Sanh Do , Khoa Do Dang
Published: December 2014

In the present paper it is introduced the method for determining the reactions of mechanical constraints (holonomic and nonholonomic constraints).As is known, for studying dynamical characters of a mechanical system it is necessary to determine the constraint reactions acting on the system. Up to now, the reactions are calculated through Lagrange's multipliers. By such a way the reactions are determined only indirectly. In the [3, 4], two methods of determining directly the reactions are discussed. However, for applying these methods, it is necessary to compute the inverse matrix of the matrix of inertia. This thing in general is not convenient, specially when the matrix of inertial is of large size and dense.In the present paper it is represented the method for determining the constraint reactions, by which it is possible to avoid inertia the computation of the inverse matrix of the matrix of inertia is avoided. For this in the paper it is used the middle variables by which we obtain a closed set of algebraic equations for directly determining reactions.
Influence of the hardening characteristics of material on the critical load in the elasto-plastic stability problem of conical shells
Authors: Bich Dao Huy , Bay Vu Khac
Published: December 2014

In this paper by using the theory of elasto-plastic processes and adjacent equilibrium criterion the governing equations of the elasto-plastic stability problem of conical shells are derived. The Bubnov-Galerkin's method combined with the loading parameter method are applied in solving the mentioned problem. The influence of the hardening characteristics of material on the critical load is investigated.
Calculation of loading-induced tendon slip in beams prestressed with external tendons. Part I: Experiment
Authors: Diep Bui Khac , Quang Lam Huu
Published: December 2014

This study consists of two parts, in which both experimental and numerical studies on externally prestressed concrete beams were investigated. In Part I, three identical beams of T-shaped section prestressed with external tendons have been tested to failure to investigate the effects of geometry of the applied load on flexural behavior of externally prestressed concrete beams. The tendon slip at deviators was also monitored in order to examine the evolution of stress in the external tendons. Test results were presented with emphasis on the effects of geometry of applied load and tendon slip at deviators.
Dynamic analysis of prestressed Bernoulli beams resting on two-parameter foundation under moving harmonic load
Authors: Kien Nguyen Dinh , Hai Bui Thanh
Published: December 2014

This paper describes the dynamic analysis of prestressed Bernoulli beams resting on a two-parameter elastic foundation under a moving harmonic load by the finite element method. Using the cubic Hermitian polynomials as interpolation functions for the deflection, the stiffness of the Bernoulli beam element augmented by that of the foundation support and prestress is formulated. The nodal load vector is derived using the polynomials with the abscissa measured from the left-hand node of the current loading element to the position of the moving load. Using the formulated element, the dynamic response of the beams is computed with the aid of the direct integration Newmark method. The effects of the foundation support, prestress as well as excitation frequency, velocity and acceleration on the dynamic characteristics of the beams are investigated in detail and highlighted.
Stability of liquid films down an inclined plane
Authors: Phuong Phan Thi Thu , Tran Tran Van
Published: December 2014

In this paper, the problem of linear stability of viscous liquid films down an inclined plane is solved by finite difference method. It is applicable for moderate values of Reynolds and wave numbers. The obtained results by this method is compared with ones of some papers and with experimental data.
The method of transmission matrix for investigating planar mechanisms
Authors: Sanh Do , Khoa Do Dang
Published: December 2014

In this paper the method of transmission matrix is applied for investigating planar mechanisms [5-7]. As is known, in many engineering problems, for example, in the problem of synthesis and analysis of motion, the following problem is more and more interested. There is an object (a particle or body) connected with a frame of reference, which moves with respect to another frame. It is necessary to define the configuration (the position, velocity, acceleration) of the object under consideration in the latter frame. There are two types of the frame of reference. A frame that is fixed in time named inertia frame or global frame of reference and the frame attached to each body of the system- the body frame of reference. The problem is stated now as follows: Determine the configuration in global frame of a particle fixed in any body of the system.In this paper a method is constructed for solving such a problem by means of transmission matrices.The obtained results are illustrated by examples.