bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cell Separation in Vibrio cholerae Is Mediated by a Single Amidase Whose Action Is Modulated by Two Nonredundant Activators
Authors: Möll Andrea , Dörr Tobias , Alvarez Laura , Chao Michael C. , Davis Brigid M. , Cava Felipe , Waldor Matthew K.
Published: September 2014

Synthesis and hydrolysis of septal peptidoglycan (PG) are critical processes at the conclusion of cell division that enable separation of daughter cells. Cleavage of septal PG is mediated by PG amidases, hydrolytic enzymes that release peptide side chains from the glycan strand. Most gammaproteobacteria, including
Escherichia coli
, encode several functionally redundant periplasmic amidases. However, members of the
Vibrio
genus, including the enteric pathogen
Vibrio cholerae
, encode only a single PG amidase, AmiB. Here, we show that
V. cholerae
AmiB is crucial for cell division and growth. Genetic and biochemical analyses indicated that AmiB is regulated by two activators, EnvC and NlpD, at least one of which is required for AmiB's localization to the cell division site. Localization of the activators (and thus of AmiB) is dependent upon the cell division protein FtsN. These factors mediate septal PG cleavage in
E. coli
as well; however, their precise roles vary between the two organisms in a number of ways. Notably, even though
V. cholerae
EnvC and NlpD appear to be functionally redundant under most growth conditions tested, NlpD is specifically required for intestinal colonization in the infant mouse model of cholera and for
V. cholerae
resistance against bile salts, perhaps due to environmental regulation of AmiB or its activators. Collectively, our findings reveal that although the cellular components that enable cleavage of septal PG appear to be generally conserved between
E. coli
and
V. cholerae
, they can be combined into diverse functional regulatory networks.
Patterns of Expression and Translocation of the Ubiquitin Ligase SlrP in Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium
Authors: Cordero-Alba Mar , Ramos-Morales Francisco
Published: September 2014

SlrP is an E3 ubiquitin ligase that can be translocated into eukaryotic host cells by the two type III secretion systems that are expressed by
Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhimurium and are encoded in
Salmonella
pathogenicity islands 1 (SPI1) and 2 (SPI2). Expression of
slrP
and translocation of its product were examined using
lac
, 3×FLAG, and
cyaA
′ translational fusions. Although
slrP
was expressed in different media, optimal expression was found under conditions that imitate the intravacuolar environment and promote synthesis of the SPI2-encoded type III secretion system. Translocation into mammalian cells took place through the SPI1- or the SPI2-encoded type III secretion system, depending on specific host cell type and timing. A search for genetic factors involved in controlling the expression of
slrP
unveiled LeuO, Lon, and the two-component system PhoQ/PhoP as novel regulators of
slrP
. Our experiments suggest that LeuO and Lon act through HilD under SPI1-inducing conditions, whereas PhoP directly interacts with the
slrP
promoter to activate transcription under SPI2 inducing conditions.
Metabolic Engineering of Microorganisms for the Production of Higher Alcohols
Authors: Choi Yong Jun , Lee Joungmin , Jang Yu-Sin , Lee Sang Yup
Published: September 2014

Due to the increasing concerns about limited fossil resources and environmental problems, there has been much interest in developing biofuels from renewable biomass. Ethanol is currently used as a major biofuel, as it can be easily produced by existing fermentation technology, but it is not the best biofuel due to its low energy density, high vapor pressure, hygroscopy, and incompatibility with current infrastructure. Higher alcohols, including 1-propanol, 1-butanol, isobutanol, 2-methyl-1-butanol, and 3-methyl-1-butanol, which possess fuel properties more similar to those of petroleum-based fuel, have attracted particular interest as alternatives to ethanol. Since microorganisms isolated from nature do not allow production of these alcohols at high enough efficiencies, metabolic engineering has been employed to enhance their production. Here, we review recent advances in metabolic engineering of microorganisms for the production of higher alcohols.
Wolbachia
Influences the Maternal Transmission of the
gypsy
Endogenous Retrovirus in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Touret Franck , Guiguen François , Terzian Christophe
Published: September 2014

The endosymbiotic bacteria of the genus
Wolbachia
are present in most insects and are maternally transmitted through the germline. Moreover, these intracellular bacteria exert antiviral activity against insect RNA viruses, as in
Drosophila melanogaster
, which could explain the prevalence of
Wolbachia
bacteria in natural populations.
Wolbachia
is maternally transmitted in
D. melanogaster
through a mechanism that involves distribution at the posterior pole of mature oocytes and then incorporation into the pole cells of the embryos. In parallel, maternal transmission of several endogenous retroviruses is well documented in
D. melanogaster
. Notably,
gypsy
retrovirus is expressed in permissive follicle cells and transferred to the oocyte and then to the offspring by integrating into their genomes. Here, we show that the presence of
Wolbachia w
Mel reduces the rate of
gypsy
insertion into the
ovo
gene. However, the presence of
Wolbachia
does not modify the expression levels of
gypsy
RNA and envelope glycoprotein from either permissive or restrictive ovaries. Moreover,
Wolbachia
affects the pattern of distribution of the retroviral particles and the
gypsy
envelope protein in permissive follicle cells. Altogether, our results enlarge the knowledge of the antiviral activity of
Wolbachia
to include reducing the maternal transmission of endogenous retroviruses in
D. melanogaster
.

IMPORTANCE
Animals have established complex relationships with bacteria and viruses that spread horizontally among individuals or are vertically transmitted, i.e., from parents to offspring. It is well established that members of the genus
Wolbachia
, maternally inherited symbiotic bacteria present mainly in arthropods, reduce the replication of several RNA viruses transmitted horizontally. Here, we demonstrate for the first time that
Wolbachia
diminishes the maternal transmission of
gypsy
, an endogenous retrovirus in
Drosophila melanogaster
. We hypothesize that
gypsy
cannot efficiently integrate into the germ cells of offspring during embryonic development in the presence of
Wolbachia
because both are competitors for localization to the posterior pole of the egg. More generally, it would be of interest to analyze the influence of
Wolbachia
on vertically transmitted exogenous viruses, such as some arboviruses.
Origin Replication Complex Binding, Nucleosome Depletion Patterns, and a Primary Sequence Motif Can Predict Origins of Replication in a Genome with Epigenetic Centromeres
Authors: Tsai Hung-Ji , Baller Joshua A. , Liachko Ivan , Koren Amnon , Burrack Laura S. , Hickman Meleah A. , Thevandavakkam Mathuravani A. , Rusche Laura N. , Berman Judith
Published: September 2014

Origins of DNA replication are key genetic elements, yet their identification remains elusive in most organisms. In previous work, we found that centromeres contain origins of replication (ORIs) that are determined epigenetically in the pathogenic yeast
Candida albicans
. In this study, we used origin recognition complex (ORC) binding and nucleosome occupancy patterns in
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
and
Kluyveromyces lactis
to train a machine learning algorithm to predict the position of active arm (noncentromeric) origins in the
C. albicans
genome. The model identified bona fide active origins as determined by the presence of replication intermediates on nondenaturing two-dimensional (2D) gels. Importantly, these origins function at their native chromosomal loci and also as autonomously replicating sequences (ARSs) on a linear plasmid. A “mini-ARS screen” identified at least one and often two ARS regions of ≥100 bp within each bona fide origin. Furthermore, a 15-bp AC-rich consensus motif was associated with the predicted origins and conferred autonomous replicating activity to the mini-ARSs. Thus, while centromeres and the origins associated with them are epigenetic, arm origins are dependent upon critical DNA features, such as a binding site for ORC and a propensity for nucleosome exclusion.

IMPORTANCE
DNA replication machinery is highly conserved, yet the definition of exactly what specifies a replication origin differs in different species. Here, we utilized computational genomics to predict origin locations in
Candida albicans
by combining locations of binding sites for the conserved origin replication complex, necessary for replication initiation, together with chromatin organization patterns. We identified predicted sequences that exhibited bona fide origin function and developed a linear plasmid assay to delimit the DNA fragments necessary for origin function. Additionally, we found that a short AC-rich motif, which is enriched in predicted origins, is required for origin function. Thus, we demonstrated a new machine learning paradigm for identification of potential origins from a genome with no prior information. Furthermore, this work suggests that
C. albicans
has two different types of origins: “hard-wired” arm origins that rely upon specific sequence motifs and “epigenetic” centromeric origins that are recruited to kinetochores in a sequence-independent manner.
All-cause and disease-specific mortality among male, former elite athletes: an average 50-year follow-up
Authors: Kettunen Jyrki A , Kujala Urho M , Kaprio Jaakko , Bäckmand Heli , Peltonen Markku , Eriksson Johan G , Sarna Seppo
Published: September 2014

Aim

To investigate life expectancy and mortality among former elite athletes and controls.

Methods

HR analysis of cause-specific deaths sourced from the national death registry for former Finnish male endurance, team and power sports athletes (N=2363) and controls (N=1657). The median follow-up time was 50 years.

Results

Median life expectancy was higher in the endurance (79.1 years, 95% CI 76.6 to 80.6) and team (78.8, 78.1 to 79.8) sports athletes than in controls (72.9, 71.8 to 74.3). Compared to controls, risk for total mortality adjusted for socioeconomic status and birth cohort was lower in the endurance ((HR 0.70, 95% CI 0.61 to 0.79)) and team (0.80, 0.72 to 0.89) sports athletes, and slightly lower in the power sports athletes (0.93, 0.85 to 1.03). HR for ischaemic heart disease mortality was lower in the endurance (0.68, 0.54 to 0.86) and team sports (0.73, 0.60 to 0.89) athletes. HR for stroke mortality was 0.52 (0.33 to 0.83) in the endurance and 0.59 (0.40 to 0.88) in the team sports athletes. Compared to controls, the risk for smoking-related cancer mortality was lower in the endurance (HR 0.20, 0.08 to 0.47) and power sports (0.40, 0.25 to 0.66) athletes. For dementia mortality, the power sports athletes, particularly boxers, had increased risk (HR 4.20, 2.30 to 7.81).

Conclusions

Elite athletes have 5–6 years additional life expectancy when compared to men who were healthy as young adults. Lower mortality for cardiovascular disease was in part due to lower rates of smoking, as tobacco-related cancer mortality was especially low.
Sedentary behaviour and the risk of depression: a meta-analysis
Authors: Zhai Long , Zhang Yi , Zhang Dongfeng
Published: September 2014

Background

Sedentary behaviour is associated with risk of depression. We review and quantitatively summarise the evidence from observational studies in a meta-analysis.

Methods

We searched the PubMed, Web of Knowledge, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure and Wanfang databases for observational studies related to the association of sedentary behaviour and depression risk up to 15 January 2014. Summary relative risks (RRs) were estimated by the use of a random effects model.

Results

Thirteen cross-sectional studies with 110 152 participants and 11 longitudinal studies with 83 014 participants were included in this meta-analysis. The summary RR of depression for the highest versus non-occasional/occasional sedentary behaviour was 1.25 (95% CI 1.16 to 1.35, I2=50.7%) for all included studies. The pooled RRs of depression for sedentary behaviour were 1.31 (95% CI 1.16 to 1.48) in cross-sectional studies and 1.14 (95% CI 1.06 to 1.21) in longitudinal studies. In subgroup analysis by different types of sedentary behaviour, the pooled RRs of depression were 1.13 (95% CI 1.06 to 1.21) for long-time TV viewing and 1.22 (95% CI 1.10 to 1.34) for prolonged computer or internet use.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis of observational studies indicates that sedentary behaviour is associated with increased risk of depression.
Improving the quality of weekend handover at Yeovil District Hospital
Authors: Sneller Sarah , Lada Karolina , Turner Charlotte , Millwood Sinead , Jervis Bethan , Barr Julia , Farrell Louise
Published: September 2014

“Handover of care is one of the most perilous procedures in medicine” (British Medical Association, Safe Handover, Safe Patients). The system in place for weekend handover at YDH was deemed disorganised, unstructured and frequently missing key pieces of information, leaving the on-call Foundation Year 1 (FY1) doctor with only vague jobs and management plans. Baseline surveys demonstrated that junior doctors felt the system was inadequate, potentially compromised patient safety and increased their stress levels.

In order to improve this problem a structured weekend handover proforma was created, comparable with the “Out of hours handover record keeping standards: template” from the Royal College of Physicians. This was made readily accessible on the local intranet. Education sessions were organised for the FY1 and FY2 doctors. The impact of the newly introduced proforma was measured using feedback surveys each week from the FY1 on ward cover for six months. A further change implemented was the introduction of a Friday Ward Round proforma. The aim was to reduce the time required to review notes by the on-call doctor, to minimise avoidable weekend jobs and to improve compliance with the management plans.

The results demonstrated 100% compliance with the new proformas. There were notable improvements in the presence of a plan (37.5% to 91.7%, max. 100%), a minimum of two patient identifiers (68.8% to 100%) and relevant background information (62.5% to 100%). Qualitative data showed a much higher level of satisfaction with the new system.

Future plans include rolling out electronic handover to improve problems such as illegible handwriting and missing data (enable ‘compulsory’ fields), and also for this system to be implemented Trust-wide.
Neutrophil to lymphocyte count ratio as an early indicator of blood stream infection in the emergency department
Authors: Lowsby Richard , Gomes Clint , Jarman Ian , Lisboa Paulo , Nee Patrick A , Vardhan Madhur , Eckersley Tom , Saleh Roshan , Mills Hannah
Published: September 2014

Objectives

Early identification of patients with blood stream infection (BSI), especially bacteraemia, is important as prompt treatment improves outcome. The initial stages of severe infection may be characterised by increased numbers of neutrophils in the peripheral blood and depression of the lymphocyte count (LC). The neutrophil to LC ratio (NLCR) has previously been compared with conventional tests, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and white cell count (WCC), and has been proposed as a useful marker in the timely diagnosis of bacteraemia.

Methods

Data on consecutive adult patients presenting to the emergency department with pyrexial illness during the study period, November 2009 to October 2010, were analysed. The main outcome measure was positive blood cultures (bacteraemia). Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values and likelihood ratios were determined for NLCR, CRP, WCC, neutrophil count and LC.

Results

1954 patients met the inclusion criteria. Blood cultures were positive in 270 patients, hence the prevalence of bacteraemia was 13.8%. With the exception of WCC, there were significant differences in the mean value for each marker between bacteraemic and non-bacteraemic patients (p<0.001). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was highest for NLCR (0.72; 95% CI 0.69 to 0.75) and LC (0.71; 0.68 to 0.74) and lowest for WCC (0.54; 0.40 to 0.57). The sensitivity and specificity of NLCR for predicting bacteraemia were 70% (64% to 75%) and 57% (55% to 60%), respectively. Positive and negative predictive values for NLCR were 0.20 (0.18 to 0.23) and 0.92 (0.91 to 0.94), respectively. The positive likelihood ratio was 1.63 (1.48 to 1.79) and the negative likelihood ratio was 0.53 (0.44 to 0.64).

Conclusions

Although NLCR outperforms conventional markers of infection, it is insufficient in itself to guide clinical management of patients with suspected BSI, and it offers no advantage over LC. However, it may offer some diagnostic utility when taken into account as part of the overall assessment.
Ethics teaching in European veterinary schools: a qualitative case study
Authors: Magalhães‐Sant'Ana M.
Published: September 2014

Veterinary ethics is recognised as a relevant topic in the undergraduate veterinary curriculum. However, there appears to be no widely agreed view on which contents are best suited for veterinary ethics teaching and there is limited information on the teaching approaches adopted by veterinary schools. This paper provides an inside perspective on the diversity of veterinary ethics teaching topics, based on an in‐depth analysis of three European veterinary schools: Copenhagen, Lisbon and Nottingham. The case study approach integrated information from the analysis of syllabi contents and interviews with educators (curricular year 2010–2011). These results show that the curriculum of veterinary ethics is multidimensional and can combine a wide range of scientific, regulatory, professional and philosophical subjects, some of which may not be explicitly set out in the course descriptors. A conceptual model for veterinary ethics teaching is proposed comprising prominent topics included within four overarching concepts: animal welfare science, laws/regulations, professionalism, and theories/concepts. It is intended that this work should inform future curriculum development of veterinary ethics in European schools and assist ethical deliberation in veterinary practice.
Lepton flavor violation in the μνSSM with slepton flavor mixing
Authors: Zhang Hai-Bin , Feng Tai-Fu , Zhao Shu-Min , Sun Fei
Published: September 2014

The μνSSM, one of supersymmetric extensions of the Standard Model, introduces three right-handed neutrino superfields to solve the μ problem and violates lepton number. Within framework of the μνSSM, we investigate the lepton flavor violating (LFV) processes [Formula: see text] with slepton flavor mixing. Simultaneously, we consider the LFV processes [Formula: see text] and muon conversion to electron in nuclei.
A systematic study of finite BRST-BFV transformations in Sp(2)-extended generalized Hamiltonian formalism
Authors: Batalin Igor A. , Lavrov Peter M. , Tyutin Igor V.
Published: September 2014

We study systematically finite BRST-BFV transformations in Sp(2)-extended generalized Hamiltonian formalism. We present explicitly their Jacobians and the form of a solution to the compensation equation determining the functional field dependence of finite Fermionic parameters, necessary to generate arbitrary finite change of gauge-fixing functions in the path integral.
Virtual Khovanov homology using cobordisms
Authors: Tubbenhauer Daniel
Published: September 2014

We extend Bar-Natan's cobordism-based categorification of the Jones polynomial to virtual links. Our topological complex allows a direct extension of the classical Khovanov complex (h = t = 0), the variant of Lee (h = 0, t = 1) and other classical link homologies. We show that our construction allows, over rings of characteristic two, extensions with no classical analogon, e.g. Bar-Natan's ℤ/2-link homology can be extended in two non-equivalent ways. Our construction is computable in the sense that one can write a computer program to perform calculations, e.g. we have written a MATHEMATICA-based program. Moreover, we give a classification of all unoriented TQFTs which can be used to define virtual link homologies from our topological construction. Furthermore, we prove that our extension is combinatorial and has semi-local properties. We use the semi-local properties to prove an application, i.e. we give a discussion of Lee's degeneration of virtual homology.
Knot Floer filtration classes of topologically slice knots
Authors: Tobin Joshua P.
Published: September 2014

The knot Floer complex and the concordance invariant ε can be used to define a filtration on the smooth concordance group. We exhibit an ordered subset of this filtration that is isomorphic to ℕ × ℕ and consists of topologically slice knots.
Cyclic wave packet transform on finite Abelian groups of prime order
Authors: Ghaani Farashahi Arash
Published: September 2014

In this paper, we introduce the notion of finite wave packet groups for positive prime integers, as groups of cyclic dilations, translations and modulations. We will present a unified group theoretical approach for the cyclic wave packet transform on finite Abelian groups of prime order. Then, we study basic properties of this windowed transform.
Employing Humanoid Robots for Teaching English Language in Iranian Junior High-Schools
Authors: Alemi Minoo , Meghdari Ali , Ghazisaedy Maryam
Published: September 2014

This paper presents the effect of robotics assisted language learning (RALL) on the vocabulary learning and retention of Iranian English as foreign language (EFL) junior high school students in Tehran, Iran. After taking a vocabulary pre-test, 46 beginner level female students at the age of 12, studying in their first year of junior-high participated in two groups of RALL (30 students) and non-RALL (16 students) in this study. The textbook used was the English book (Prospect-1) devised by the Iranian Ministry of Education for 7th graders, and the vocabulary taught and tested (pre-test and post-test) were taken from this book. Moreover, the treatment given by a teacher accompanied by a humanoid robot assistant in the RALL group took about five weeks in which half of the book was covered, and the non-RALL group was taught in a traditional method. Finally, the teacher administered the post-test and delayed post-test whose results of repeated measures ANOVA and Two Ways ANOVA indicated that there was a significant difference regarding participants' vocabulary gain and retention in RALL group comparing to non-RALL group. In addition, the teacher reported the students' positive reaction to RALL in learning vocabulary. Overall, the results revealed that RALL has been very influential in creating an efficient and pleasurable English learning environment. This study has some implications for technology-based education, language teaching, and social robotics fields.
A family of maps with many small fibers
Authors: Alpert Hannah , Guth Larry
Published: September 2014

The waist inequality states that for a continuous map from Sn to ℝq, not all fibers can have small (n - q)-dimensional volume. We construct maps for which most fibers have small (n - q)-dimensional volume and all fibers have bounded (n - q)-dimensional volume.
Dielectric properties of ternary composites of triblock polymer surfactant, liquid crystal and organic solvent
Authors: Fisch M. R. , Braganza Clinton , Chien L. C. , Petschek R. G.
Published: September 2014

Dielectric spectroscopy, at room temperature (20°C), is used to study the dielectric response of ternary mixtures of commercial nematic liquid crystal mixtures E7 and E33, an organic solvent N-Methyl-2-Pyrrolidone (NMP) and a triblock polymers in the frequency range from 0.01 Hz to 1 MHz. The results indicate a dielectric relaxation in the hectohertz region. Individually, both E7 and NMP have rather large low frequency conductivities; however, the low frequency (0.01–10 Hz) behavior of the mixtures has no such behavior. We attribute this behavior to an ion getter effect of the triblock polymer surfactant. Optimized ternary mixtures obtain a real dielectric constant near 230, and loss tangent less than 0.05 at frequencies near 10 mHz.
Mendelian Disorders of the Epigenetic Machinery: Tipping the Balance of Chromatin States
Authors: Fahrner Jill A. , Bjornsson Hans T.
Published: September 2014

Mendelian disorders of the epigenetic machinery are a newly delineated group of multiple congenital anomaly and intellectual disability syndromes resulting from mutations in genes encoding components of the epigenetic machinery. The gene products affected in these inherited conditions act in trans and are expected to have widespread epigenetic consequences. Many of these syndromes demonstrate phenotypic overlap with classical imprinting disorders and with one another. The various writer and eraser systems involve opposing players, which we propose must maintain a balance between open and closed chromatin states in any given cell. An imbalance might lead to disrupted expression of disease-relevant target genes. We suggest that classifying disorders based on predicted effects on this balance would be informative regarding pathogenesis. Furthermore, strategies targeted at restoring this balance might offer novel therapeutic avenues, taking advantage of available agents such as histone deacetylase inhibitors and histone acetylation antagonists.
MicroRNA regulation of mitochondrial and ER stress signaling pathways: implications for lipoprotein metabolism in metabolic syndrome
Authors: Christian Patricia , Su Qiaozhu
Published: September 2014

The development of metabolic syndrome is closely associated with the deregulation of lipid metabolism. Emerging evidence has demonstrated that microRNAs (miRNAs) are intensively engaged in lipid and lipoprotein metabolism by regulating genes involved in control of intracellular lipid synthesis, mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation, and lipoprotein assembly. Mitochondrial dysfunction induced by altered miRNA expression has been proposed to be a contributing factor in the onset of metabolic diseases, while at the same time, aberrant expression of certain miRNAs is associated with the induction of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress induced by nutrient-surplus. These studies position miRNAs as a link between oxidative stress and ER stress, two cellular stress pathways that are deregulated in metabolic disease and are associated with very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) overproduction. Dyslipoproteinemia frequently accompanied with metabolic syndrome is initiated largely by the overproduction of VLDL and altered biogenesis of high-density lipoprotein (HDL). In this review, we highlight recent findings on the regulatory impact of miRNAs on the metabolic homeostasis of mitochondria and ER as well as their contribution to the aberrant biogenesis of both VLDL and HDL in the context of metabolic disorders, in an attempt to gain further insights into the molecular mechanisms of dyslipidemia in the metabolic syndrome.
Urate Lowering Therapy with Febuxostat in Daily Practice—A Multicentre, Open-Label, Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Tausche Anne-Kathrin , Reuss-Borst Monika , Koch Ute
Published: September 2014

Introduction.Febuxostat, a novel xanthine oxidase inhibitor for the treatment of symptomatic hyperuricemia, showed superiority over allopurinol in the reduction of serum uric acid levels in pivotal studies. Whether this holds true the FORTE (febuxostat in the oral urate lowering treatment: effectiveness and safety) study was conducted to evaluate treatment with febuxostat under daily practice conditions.Materials/Methods.The multicentre, open-label, and prospective observational study was conducted in 1,690 German medical practices from 9/2010 to 5/2011. Safety and efficacy data were assessed at baseline and week 4.Results.Data from 5,592 gout patients (72.6% male, mean age 63.7 years) were collected. Under urate lowering treatment with febuxostat mean serum uric acid levels decreased significantly from8.9±1.9 mg/dL (534.0±114.6 μmol/L) at baseline to6.2±2.5 mg/dL (372.0±150.0 μmol/L) at week 4. 67% which reached the mean uric acid target (6.1±1.0 mg/dL [366.0±59.4 μmol/L]). Only 43.1% of patients received concomitant flare prophylaxis. A total of 178 adverse events (mostly gout flares) were reported in 152 patients (2.6%).Conclusion.Febuxostat lowers serum uric acid levels effectively in routine clinical practice. Overall, treatment with febuxostat in both available dosages (80 mg/120 mg) was safe and well tolerated.
The Histochemical Characterization of the Glycoconjugates in the Epidermal Mucous Cells of the Red Californian Earthworm, Eisenia foetida
Authors: Çinar Kenan , Öztop Mustafa , Demirbağ Emel
Published: September 2014

The aim of this study was to characterize the nature and regional distribution of the glycoconjugates secreted by epidermal mucous cells in Eisenia foetida (Annelida). Specimens were divided into six regions from anterior to posterior. The histochemistry was carried out by using standard histochemical methods. Histochemical staining properties of glycoconjugates in epidermal mucous cells were determined regionally. The epidermis of all regions contained strong to stronger PAS (+) cells in various degrees. The epidermis of the first, fourth, fifth, and sixth regions had strong to stronger AB pH 2.5 (+) cells. On the contrary, all regions contained weak to moderate AB pH 0.5 and AB pH 1.0 (+) cells. Most of mucous cells in epidermis of the first region contained both PAS (+) and AB (+) mucosubstances. All regions included weaker to weak AF (+) cells. All regions featured KOH/PAS (+) cells, with a slight reduction in reaction intensity in the epidermis of the last three regions. In this context, the different staining patterns observed in epidermal mucous cells hinted at their functional roles with respect to production of mucus with different physical properties. This study provided comprehensive information about the regional distribution patterns of the glycoconjugates and an opportunity to compare their distributional patterns in other annelids.
Dynamics of the Oxygen, Carbon Dioxide, and Water Interaction across the Insect Spiracle
Authors: Simelane S. M. , Abelman S. , Duncan F. D.
Published: September 2014

This paper explores the dynamics of respiratory gases interactions which are accompanied by the loss of water through an insect’s spiracle. Here we investigate and analyze this interaction by deriving a system of ordinary differential equations for oxygen, carbon dioxide, and water vapor. The analysis is carried out in continuous time. The purpose of the research is to determine bounds for the gas volumes and to discuss the complexity and stability of the equilibria. Numerical simulations also demonstrate the dynamics of our model utilizing the new conditions for stability and instability.
Microanatomical Study of Embryonic Gonadal Development in Japanese Quail (Coturnix japonica)
Authors: Intarapat Sittipon , Satayalai Orawan
Published: September 2014

Gonadal development of quail embryos was examined histologically using histological and histochemical methods. In the present study, quail embryos were studied at various stages of incubation period based on phases of gonadogenesis. Germ cell migration was observed on day 3-4 but gonadal differentiation and gonadal function were observed on day 6–8 and day 11–14, respectively. During germ cell migration, quail primordial germ cells (qPGCs) were successfully detected in both left and right genital ridges as well as the dorsal mesentery by lectin histochemistry. Unexpectedly, qPGCs-like cells were found next to the neural tube by Mallory-AZAN stain. During gonadal differentiation, embryonic sex can be distinguished histologically since day 8 of incubation. Embryonic testis exhibited a thin cortex, whereas embryonic ovary exhibited a thick cortex. Testicular cord formation was found in the medulla of embryonic testes while the lacunae and fat-laden cells were found in the medulla of embryonic ovary during gonadal function. This is the first report on a comparison of phases of gonadogenesis and histochemical study of quail embryonic gonads in both sexes.
In VitroCestocidal Activity of Thymol onMesocestoides cortiTetrathyridia and Adult Worms
Authors: Maggiore M. , Elissondo M. C.
Published: September 2014

Nothing is known about the possible effect of thymol or other compounds of essential oils against the adult worms of cestodes. The aim of the present work was to determinein vitrocestodicidal activity of thymol againstMesocestoides cortiadult worms. Moreover, thein vitroeffect on tetrathyridia was also demonstrated. Tetrathyridia exposed to different concentrations of thymol showed a concentration and time-dependent effect. At lower concentrations, the main change observed was mainly in morphology, with larvae exhibiting an elongation of the body. When tetrathyridia were exposed to higher concentrations, increased surface alterations and damage were detected. The body appeared elongated and flattened, and a complete loss of morphology and microtriches was observed. Thymol was able to killM. cortitetrathyridia, since following inoculation of treated parasites in mice no parasites could be recovered. The effect onM. cortiadult worms was dose and time-dependent. Changes in motility coincide with the tissue damage were observed at the structural and ultrastructural level. Thymol caused severe damages to both developmental stages analyzed. Damages were more significant in fully segmented worms. The data reported in this paper demonstrate a clearin vitroeffect of thymol againstM. cortitetrathyridia and adult worms.
Synthesis and Crystal Structure of Alkynylplatinum(IV) Complex Containing the Terpyridine Ligand
Authors: Takase Tsugiko , Oyama Dai
Published: September 2014

Reaction of square planar [PtII(C≡CPh)(tpy)]+ (tpy = 2,2′:6′,2′′-terpyridine) with bromine at low temperature provides a general route for the synthesis of octahedral alkynyl(terpyridine)platinum(IV) complex. In this first example of alkynyl(terpyridine)platinum(IV) complex, the alkynyl group is situated in trans position relative to the central nitrogen atom of the terpyridine ligand, and the two bromido ligands are situated in trans positions; an X-ray structural analysis has been completed for trans(Br)-[PtIVBr2(C≡CPh)(tpy)]+.
The Feasibility of Exploiting IEEE 802.11n for Addressing MAC Layer Overheads in UASNs
Authors: Sayakkara Asanka , Lee Sungwon , Kim Dongkyun
Published: September 2014

Underwater acoustic sensor networks (UASNs) consist of remotely deployed sensor nodes under sea or other water environments. Due to the extreme limitations faced by radio signals under water, acoustic channels are utilized for communication in such networks. However, UASNs are challenged by the characteristics of underwater acoustic channels such as lower signal propagation speed and higher signal attenuation. On top of such a challenged physical medium, MAC schemes which are designed based on their terrestrial counter parts are required to add extra overheads to the communication channel wasting the limited network resources. MAC layer overheads such as bandwidth wastage for interframe spaces and contention for occupying physical medium put limitations to the maximum reachable throughput of UASNs. IEEE 802.11n has well defined various MAC and physical layer enhancements to overcome throughput barrier in wireless LANs which includes two frame aggregation schemes, namely, A-MPDU and A-MSDU. In this paper, we study the feasibility of applying those frame aggregations well defined in IEEE 802.11n for reducing MAC layer overheads in UASNs. Based on simulation studies, we evaluate that these frame aggregation schemes are applicable in UWSNs.
Sexual Dysfunction in Women with Diabetic Kidney
Authors: Satta Ersilia , Magno Carlo , Galì Alessandro , Inferrera Antonino , Granese Roberta , Aloisi Carmela , Buemi Michele , Bellinghieri Guido , Santoro Domenico
Published: September 2014

Few studies address alteration of sexual function in women with diabetes and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Quality of life surveys suggest that discussion of sexual function and other reproductive issues are of psychosocial assessment and that education on sexual function in the setting of chronic diseases such as diabetes and CKD is widely needed. Pharmacologic therapy with estrogen/progesterone and androgens along with glycemic control, correction of anemia, ensuring adequate dialysis delivery, and treatment of underlying depression are important. Changes in lifestyle such as smoking cessation, strength training, and aerobic exercises may decrease depression, enhance body image, and have positive impacts on sexuality. Many hormonal abnormalities which occur in women with diabetes and CKD who suffer from chronic anovulation and lack of progesterone secretion may be treated with oral progesterone at the end of each menstrual cycle to restore menstrual cycles. Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) is the most common sexual problem reported by women with diabetes and CKD. Sexual function can be assessed in women, using the 9-item Female Sexual Function Index, questionnaire, or 19 items. It is important for nephrologists and physicians to incorporate assessment of sexual function into the routine evaluation protocols.
Role of miRNALet-7and Its Major Targets in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Wagner Siegfried , Ngezahayo Anaclet , Murua Escobar Hugo , Nolte Ingo
Published: September 2014

Prostate cancer is worldwide the sixth leading cause of cancer related death in men thus early detection and successful treatment are still of major interest. The commonly performed screening of the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is controversially discussed, as in many patients the prostate-specific antigen levels are chronically elevated in the absence of cancer. Due to the unsatisfying efficiency of available prostate cancer screening markers and the current treatment outcome of the aggressive hormone refractory prostate cancer, the evaluation of novel molecular markers and targets is considered an issue of high importance. MicroRNAs are relatively stable in body fluids orchestrating simultaneously the expression of many genes. These molecules are currently discussed to bear a greater diagnostic potential than protein-coding genes, being additionally promising therapeutic drugs and/or targets. Herein we review the potential impact of the microRNAlet-7family on prostate cancer and show how deregulation of several of its target genes could influence the cellular equilibrium in the prostate gland, promoting cancer development as they do in a variety of other human malignant neoplasias.
Development of Low Energy Gap and Fully Regioregular Polythienylenevinylene Derivative
Authors: David Tanya M. S. , Zhang Cheng , Sun Sam-Shajing
Published: September 2014

Low energy gap and fully regioregular conjugated polymers find its wide use in solar energy conversion applications. This paper will first briefly review this type of polymers and also report synthesis and characterization of a specific example new polymer, a low energy gap, fully regioregular, terminal functionalized, and processable conjugated polymer poly-(3-dodecyloxy-2,5-thienylene vinylene) or PDDTV. The polymer exhibited an optical energy gap of 1.46 eV based on the UV-vis-NIR absorption spectrum. The electrochemically measured highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) level is −4.79 eV, resulting in the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) level of −3.33 eV based on optical energy gap. The polymer was synthesized via Horner-Emmons condensation and is fairly soluble in common organic solvents such as tetrahydrofuran and chloroform with gentle heating. DSC showed two endothermic peaks at 67°C and 227°C that can be attributed to transitions between crystalline and liquid states. The polymer is thermally stable up to about 300°C. This polymer appears very promising for cost-effective solar cell applications.
Evaluation of Blueberry Juice in Mouse Azoxymethane‐Induced Aberrant Crypts and Oxidative Damage
Authors: Álvarez-González Isela , Garcia-Melo Fernando , Vásquez-Garzón Verónica R. , Villa-Treviño Saúl , Madrigal-Santillán E. Osiris , Morales-González José A. , Mendoza-Pérez Jorge A. , Madrigal-Bujaidar Eduardo
Published: September 2014

Blueberry is a plant with a number of nutritional and biomedical capabilities. In the present study we initially evaluated the capacity of its juice (BJ) to inhibit the number of aberrant crypts (AC) induced with azoxymethane (AOM) in mouse. BJ was administered daily by the oral route to three groups of animals during four weeks (1.6, 4.1, and 15.0 μL/g), respectively, while AOM (10 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally injected to the mentioned groups, twice a week, in weeks two and three of the assay. We also included two control groups of mice, one administered distilled water and the other the high dose of BJ. A significant increase of AC was observed in the AOM treated animals, and a mean protection of 75.6% was determined with the two low doses of BJ tested; however, the high dose of the juice administered together with AOM increased the number of crypts more than four times the value observed in animals administered only AOM. Furthermore, we determined the antioxidant potential of BJ with an ex vivo DPPH assay and found a dose‐dependent decrease with a mean of 19.5%. We also determined the DNA oxidation/antioxidation by identifying 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine adducts and found a mean decrease of 44.3% with the BJ administration with respect to the level induced by AOM. Our results show a complex differential effect of BJ related to the tested doses, opening the need to further evaluate a number of factors so as to determine the possibility of a cocarcinogenic potential.
Achieving Fair Spectrum Allocation and Reduced Spectrum Handoff in Wireless Sensor Networks: Modeling via Biobjective Optimization
Authors: Byun Sang-Seon , Kansanen Kimmo , Balasingham Ilangko , Gil Joon-Min
Published: September 2014

This paper considers the problem of centralized spectrum allocations in wireless sensor networks towards the following goals: (1) maximizing fairness, (2) reflecting the priority among sensor data, and (3) avoiding unnecessary spectrum handoff. We cast this problem into a multiobjective mixed integer nonconvex nonlinear programming that is definitely difficult to solve at least globally without any aid of conversion or approximation. To tackle this intractability, we first convexify the original problem using arithmetic-geometric mean approximation and logarithmic change of the decision variables and then deploy weighted Chebyshev norm-based scalarization method in order to collapse the multiobjective problem into a single objective one. Finally, we apply simple rounding method in order to obtain approximate integer solutions. The results obtained from the numerical experiments show that, by adjusting the weight on each objective function, the proposed algorithm allocates spectrum bands fairly with well observing each sensor’s priority and reduced spectrum handoffs.
Stability and Passivity of Spatially and Temporally Complex Dynamical Networks with Time‐Varying Delays
Authors: Ren Shun-Yan , Zhao Yue-Hui
Published: September 2014

This paper proposes a new complex dynamical network model, in which the state, input, and output variables are varied with the time and space variables. By utilizing the Lyapunov functional method combined with the inequality techniques, several criteria for passivity and global exponential stability are established. Finally, numerical simulations are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the obtained results.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Antifungal Studies of Cr(III) Complex of Norfloxacin and Bipiridyl Ligand
Authors: Debnath Anamika , Hussain Firasat , Masram Dhanraj T.
Published: September 2014

A novel slightly distorted octahedral complex of Cr(III) of norfloxacin (Nor) with the formula [CrIII(Nor)(Bipy)Cl2]Cl·2CH3OH has been synthesized hydrothermally in the presence of aN-containing heterocyclic compound 2,2′-bipyridyl (Bipy). The complex was characterized with FT-IR, elemental analysis, UV-visible spectroscopy, and X-ray crystallography. Spectral studies suggest that the Nor acts as a deprotonated bidentate ligand. Thermal studies were also carried out. The synthesised complex was screened against four fungiPythium aphanidermatum(PA),Sclerotinia rolfsii(SR),Rhizoctonia solani(RS), andRhizoctonia bataticola(RB).
Disentangling Tinnitus Distress and Tinnitus Presence by Means of EEG Power Analysis
Authors: Meyer Martin , Luethi Matthias S. , Neff Patrick , Langer Nicolas , Büchi Stefan
Published: September 2014

The present study investigated 24 individuals suffering from chronic tinnitus (TI) and 24 nonaffected controls (CO). We recorded resting-state EEG and collected psychometric data to obtain information about how chronic tinnitus experience affects the cognitive and emotional state of TI. The study was meant to disentangle TI with high distress from those who suffer less from persistent tinnitus based on both neurophysiological and behavioral data. A principal component analysis of psychometric data uncovers two distinct independent dimensions characterizing the individual tinnitus experience. These independent states are distress and presence, the latter is described as the perceived intensity of sound experience that increases with tinnitus duration devoid of any considerable emotional burden. Neuroplastic changes correlate with the two independent components. TI with high distress display increased EEG activity in the oscillatory range around 25 Hz (upperβ-band) that agglomerates over frontal recording sites. TI with high presence show enhanced EEG signal strength in theδ-, α-, and lowerγ-bands (30–40 Hz) over bilateral temporal and left perisylvian electrodes. Based on these differential patterns we suggest that the two dimensions, namely, distress and presence, should be considered as independent dimensions of chronic subjective tinnitus.
Does Using a Standardised Mental Health Triage Assessment Alter Nurses Assessment of Vignettes of People Presenting with Deliberate Self-Harm
Authors: Tanner Richard , Cassidy Eugene , O’Sullivan Iomhar
Published: September 2014

Background. The Manchester Triage Scale is used in Irish emergency departments. This fails to provide guidance on triaging psychiatric presentations. A Mental Health Triage scale is recommended by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence. Aim. To examine the effectiveness of a Mental Health Triage scale in assessing patients presenting with self-harm. Method. Ten vignettes were created, detailing cases of deliberate self-harm. Nurses (n=49) were given five vignettes and asked to assign each vignette to a triage category, using The Manchester Triage Scale. Each nurse was subsequently asked to reevaluate the same vignettes using the Mental Health Triage Scale. Triage with each method was deemed safe or unsafe, using the benchmark triage categories assigned by a consultant in psychiatry and a consultant in emergency medicine departments. Results. 245 cases were triaged. There was a significant change in the categories assigned when the Mental Health Triage scale was in use, P<0.001. The triage categories assigned using the Mental Health Triage scale were significantly safer than under the Manchester Triage Scale (79% versus 60% safe, respectively, P<0.001).