bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Asymmetrical Corneal Topography in Map-Dot-Fingerprint Dystrophy Resembling Keratoconus
Authors: Marcovich Arie L
Published: September 2012

Map-dot-fingerprint dystrophy cause painless blurred vision due to irregular astigmatism. Corneal topography may show asymmetry and irregularity and can resemble keratoconus. Two patients with map-dot dystrophy with unilateral blurring of vision are presented that were misdiagnosed as keratoconus due to asymmetric corneal topography. Medical treatment with hypertonic saline and lubrication in one patient and alcohol assisted epithelial delamination in the second patient restored visual acuity and restored normal appearance of corneal topography.

How to cite this article

Marcovich AL. Asymmetrical Corneal Topography in Map-Dot-Fingerprint Dystrophy Resembling Keratoconus. Int J Kerat Ect Cor Dis 2012;1(2):131-133.
Chemical characterization of springtime submicrometer aerosol in Po Valley, Italy
Authors: Saarikoski S. , Carbone S. , Decesari S. , Giulianelli L. , Angelini F. , Canagaratna M. , Ng N. L. , Trimborn A. , Facchini M. C. , Fuzzi S. , Hillamo R. , Worsnop D.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. The chemistry of submicron particles was investigated at San Pietro Capofiume (SPC) measurement station in the Po Valley, Italy, in spring 2008. The measurements were performed by using both off-line and on-line instruments. Organic carbon (OC) and elemental carbon, organic acids and biomass burning tracers were measured off-line by using a 24-h PM1 filter sampling. More detailed particle chemistry was achieved by using a Aerodyne high resolution time-of-flight aerosol mass spectrometer (HR-ToF-AMS) and analyzing the data by positive matrix factorization (PMF). Oxalic acid had the highest concentrations of organic acids (campaign-average 97.4 ng m−3) followed by methane sulfonic, formic, malonic, and malic acids. Samples were also analyzed for glyoxylic, succinic, azelaic and maleic acids. In total, the nine acids composed 1.9 and 3.8% of OC and water-soluble OC, respectively (average), in terms of carbon atoms. Levoglucosan concentration varied from 17.7 to 495 ng m−3 with the concentration decreasing in the course of the campaign most likely due to the reduced use of domestic heating with wood. Six factors were found for organic aerosol (OA) at SPC by PMF: hydrocarbon-like OA (HOA), biomass burning OA (BBOA), nitrogen-containing OA (N-OA) and three different oxygenated OAs (OOA-a, OOA-b and OOA-c). Most of the OA mass was composed of OOA-a, HOA and OOA-c (26, 24 and 22%, respectively) followed by OOA-b (13%), BBOA (8%) and N-OA (7%). As expected, OOAs were the most oxygenated factors with organic matter:organic carbon (OM : OC) ratios ranging from 1.9 to 2.2. The diurnal variability of the aerosol chemical composition was greatly affected by the boundary layer meteorology. Specifically, the effect of the nocturnal layer break-up in morning hours was most evident for nitrate and N-OA indicating that these compounds originated mainly from the local sources in the Po Valley. For sulfate and OOA-a the concentration did not change during the break-up suggesting their origin to be mostly regional. That resulted in much more oxidized OA in the daytime mixing layer than in the nocturnal surface layer. In this study, the high mass resolution and source-related aerosol chemistry from the HR-ToF-AMS was combined with the filter measurements in a total new extent elucidating novel features and sources of organic aerosol in the Po Valley region.
Recent variability of the solar spectral irradiance and its impact on climate modelling
Authors: Ermolli I. , Matthes K. , Dudok de Wit T. , Krivova N. A. , Tourpali K. , Weber M. , Unruh Y. C. , Gray L. , Langematz U. , Pilewskie P. , Rozanov E. , Schmutz W. , Shapiro A. , Solanki S. K. , Thuillier G. , Woods T. N.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. During periods of high solar activity, the Earth receives ≈ 0.1% higher total solar irradiance (TSI) than during low activity periods. Variations of the solar spectral irradiance (SSI) however, can be larger, with relative changes of 1 to 20% observed in the ultraviolet (UV) band, and in excess of 100% in the soft X-ray range. SSI changes influence the Earth's atmosphere, both directly, through changes in shortwave (SW) heating and therefore, temperature and ozone distributions in the stratosphere, and indirectly, through dynamical feedbacks. Lack of long and reliable time series of SSI measurements makes the accurate quantification of solar contributions to recent climate change difficult. In particular, the most recent SSI measurements show a larger variability in the UV spectral range and anomalous changes in the visible and near-infrared (NIR) bands with respect to those from earlier observations and from models. A number of recent studies based on chemistry-climate model (CCM) simulations discuss the effects and implications of these new SSI measurements on the Earth's atmosphere, which may depart from current expectations. This paper summarises our current knowledge of SSI variability and its impact on Earth's climate. An interdisciplinary analysis of the topic is given. New comparisons and discussions are presented on the SSI measurements and models available to date, and on the response of the Earth's atmosphere and climate to SSI changes in CCM simulations. In particular, the solar induced differences in atmospheric radiative heating, temperature, ozone, mean zonal winds, and surface signals are investigated in recent simulations using atmospheric models forced with the current lower and upper boundaries of SSI solar cycle estimated variations from the NRLSSI model data and from SORCE/SIM measurements, respectively. Additionally, the reliability of available data is discussed and additional coordinated CCM experiments are proposed.
Improved mixing height monitoring through a combination of lidar and radon measurements
Authors: Griffiths A. D. , Parkes S. D. , Chambers S. D. , McCabe M. F. , Williams A. G.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Surface-based radon (222Rn) measurements can be combined with lidar backscatter to obtain a higher quality time series of mixing height within the Planetary Boundary-Layer (PBL) than is possible from lidar alone, and a more quantitative measure of mixing height than is possible from only radon. The lidar measurements benefit because even when aerosol layers are detected, reliably attributing the mixing height to the correct layer presents a challenge. By combining lidar with a mixing length scale derived from a time series of radon concentration, automated and robust attribution is possible during the morning transition. Radon measurements also provide mixing information during the night and with the addition of lidar these measurements become insensitive to night-to-night changes in radon emissions. After calibration with lidar, the radon-derived equivalent mixing height agrees with other measures of mixing on daily and hourly time scales and is a potential method for studying intermittent mixing in nocturnal boundary layers.
Naval ship recognition
Authors: Camino García I. , Zölzer U.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Object recognition is a very interesting task with multiple applications and for that reason it has been dealt with very intensively in the last years. In particular, the application to naval ship pictures may facilitate the work of the coastguards or the navy. However, this type of images entails some difficulties due to their specific environment. Water reflects the light and as a consequence, some areas may presumably show different brightness and color. Waves from wind or moving ships pose a problem due to the additional edges that they produce. The camouflage of ships in the military context is also an issue to take into account. Therefore, it is difficult to propose a simple method that is valid for every image. A discussion about which techniques may solve these problems is presented and finally a combined solution based on contour recognition is suggested. Test images are preprocessed by histogram stretching. Then, the Canny method is applied to the image and to the reference contour in order to obtain not only their edges, but also their respective orientations. The problem of recognizing the reference contour within the detected edges is addressed by making use of the Generalized Hough Transform (GHT).
Technical Note: On the determination of enclosed water volume in large flexible-wall mesocosms
Authors: Czerny J. , Schulz K. G. , Krug S. A. , Ludwig A. , Riebesell U.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. The volume of water enclosed inside flexible-wall mesocosm bags is hard to estimate using geometrical calculations and can be strongly variable among bags of the same dimensions. Here we present a method for precise water volume determination in mesocosms using salinity as a tracer. Knowledge of the precise volume of water enclosed allows establishment of exactly planed treatment concentrations and calculation of elemental budgets.
Movies as a Supporting Tool for Assessing Student’s Performance Test
Authors: Zahar Iwan
Published: September 2012

The use of questionnaires and interviews, student’s portfolio, academic transcript were not sufficient to know the background of students and their previous knowledge. The objective of the research is to use movies as supporting criteria to know students prior knowledge, and also other useful information to improve student’s performance. The survey method was undertaken in 20 third year product design students and 9 fourth year multimedia students, University Malaysia Kelantan, Malaysia. Three questions were used after showing Monalisa Smile’s movie; (1) What is your impression of this movie? (2) How the story is told? (3) What is the element and principal designs which are used in this movie? Most students in the first and third year student can answer the first and second questions but they could not answer the third questions. Art history and art criticism are not included in UMK curricula. Students were seldom criticized movies: therefore, most of their answers could not find the main objective of the movie. Regarding students answer, these movie tests will help lecturer to access student performance which cannot be revealed in the questionnaires and interviews.   Keywords - movie, student performance, assessment
Teacher Communication Behavior: It’s Impact to the Students’ Attitude in Learning Science
Authors: Eupena Roxan G.
Published: September 2012

Teachers' interpersonal communication behavior in the classroom is known to be one of a vital element in creating a classroom learning environment that significantly contribute towards the students’ attitudes and motivation of learning. In view of this concept, the study was primarily conducted to investigate the impact of science teachers’ communication behavior towards the attitude of students in learning science. The study employs descriptive correlation research design and makes use of the Teacher Communication Behavior Questionnaire (TCBQ) of She and Fisher (2002), as well as the Test of Science Related Attitudes of Fraser (modified by She and Fisher in 2002). Results show no significant differences on gender; nevertheless, significant differences are apparent in two of the five scales of TCB namely non-verbal support and controlling in terms of age differences. Simple correlation coefficient indicates a significant correlation in four TCB scales namely: challenging, encouragement and praise, nonverbal support and controlling with the attitudinal scale, enjoyment in science lessons. Attitudinal scale career interest in science on the other hand, is correlated with encouragement and praise and non-verbal support. The above result indicates that communication behavior of science teachers has great contribution and impact towards the attitudes of students in learning science.   Keywords - teacher communication behavior, science related attitudes, learning
Students Aggress Against Professors in Reaction to Receiving Poor Grades: An Effect Moderated by Student Narcissism and Self‐Esteem
Authors: Vaillancourt Tracy
Published: September 2012

Laboratory evidence about whether students’ evaluations of teaching (SETs) are valid is lacking. Results from three (3) independent studies strongly confirm that "professors" who were generous with their grades were rewarded for their favor with higher SETs, while professors who were frugal were punished with lower SETs (Study 1,d= 1.51; Study 2,d= 1.59; Study 3, partial η2= .26). This result was found even when the feedback was manipulated to be more or less insulting (Study 3). Consistent with laboratory findings on direct aggression, results also indicated that, when participants were given a poorer feedback, higher self‐esteem (Study 1 and Study 2) and higher narcissism (Study 1) were associated with them giving lower (more aggressive) evaluations of the "professor." Moreover, consistent with findings on self‐serving biases, participants higher in self‐esteem who were in the positive grade/feedback condition exhibited a self‐enhancing bias by giving their "professor" higher evaluations (Study 1 and Study 2). The aforementioned relationships were not moderated by the professor's sex or rank (teaching assistant vs.professor). Results provide evidence that (1) students do aggress against professors through poor teaching evaluations, (2) threatened egotism among individuals with high self‐esteem is associated with more aggression, especially when coupled with high narcissism, and (3) self‐enhancing biases are robust among those with high self‐esteem. Aggr. Behav. 39:71‐84, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Potential carcinogenic effects of world trade center dust after intratracheal instillation to Sprague–Dawley rats: First observation
Authors: Soffritti M. , Falcioni L. , Bua L. , Tibaldi E. , Manservigi M. , Belpoggi F.
Published: September 2012

Background

More than 10 years have passed since the terrorist attack on the New York City World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. It is well known that long‐term carcinogenic bioassays on rodents can predict the potential carcinogenic effects of chemical and physical agents for humans.

Objective

A life‐span carcinogenicity bioassay was conducted on Sprague–Dawley rats at the CMCRC of the Ramazzini Institute to test the potential carcinogenic effects of settled dust collected at the WTC immediately after the terrorist attack.

Methods

The WTC material tested is a complex mixture of coarse particles (95%) contain pulverized cement, glass fibres, asbestos, lead, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHS), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBS) and polychlorinated furans, and dioxin. The test matter was suspended in sterile saline and administered by intratracheal instillation (IT) to 8‐week‐old Sprague–Dawley rats (100 animals/sex), 3–4 days/week for 4 weeks. A group of 200 male and female rats served as controls. The animals were kept under observation until natural death.

Results

Histopathological evaluation of the lungs (target organ) of instilled control and treated male and female rats, did not show any significant increased incidence of lung tumors. Two hemangiomas (one with endothelial atypia) and one hemangiosarcoma were found in the lungs of treated males. Moreover a modest increased incidence of terminal bronchiolar hyperplasia (TBH) and squamous metaplasia occurred in the lung of treated males and females compared to the controls.

Conclusion

Hemangioma and hemangiosarcoma are extremely rare tumors in the lung of our colony and we believe they are caused by WTC dust. Am. J. Ind. Med. 56:155–162, 2013. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Distributive h‐indices for measuring multilevel impact
Authors: Zhao Star X. , Tan Alice M. , Ye Fred Y.
Published: September 2012

For measuring multilevel impact, we introduce the distributive h‐indices, which balance two important components (breadth and strength) of multilevel impact at various citing levels. After exploring the theoretical properties of these indices, we studied two cases: 57 library and information science (LIS) journals and social science research in 38 European countries/territories. Results reveal that there are approximate power‐law relations between distributive h‐indices and some underlying citation indicators, such as total citations, total citing entities, and the h‐index. Distributive h‐indices provide comprehensive measures for multilevel impact, and lead to a potential tool for citation analysis, particularly at aggregative levels.
Finite‐Time Consensus Tracking for Second‐Order Multiagent Systems
Authors: Xu Xiang , Wang Jinzhi
Published: September 2012

In this paper, the finite‐time consensus tracking problem is investigated for second‐order multi‐agent systems. A novel distributed consensus algorithm based on the sliding mode control (SMC) is designed, and the tracking time is estimated analytically.
Adaptive Control of the Electro‐Hydraulic Servo‐System with External Disturbances
Authors: Wos Piotr , Dindorf Ryszard
Published: September 2012

The paper deals with the structure of the adaptive control electro‐hydraulic servo‐system (EHSS) with external load disturbances, practical verification of the identification, and control algorithms. The electro‐hydraulic servo system composed of a servo‐cylinder controlled with a servo‐valve is discussed. It is a strongly nonlinear object with parameters changing over time. Adaptive adjuster parameters were determined by means of current identification resulting in the parametric model. Identification was conducted on the basis of measurement of the controlling size and regulated size objects. The identified model of the object was applied to carry out the on‐line synthesis of the proportional–integral–derivative (PID) controller. The selected problems connected with obtaining the algorithm of adaptive control are presented. The computer program for implementing the algorithm with numerical simulation and identification of the control physical model object were calculated. The aim of the research was to examine the effectiveness of the adaptive control method in an electro‐hydraulic servo system, both theoretically and experimentally.
Bayesian‐Based Domain Search Using Multiple Autonomous Vehicles with Intermittent Information Sharing
Authors: Wang Yue , Hussein Islam I.
Published: September 2012

This paper focuses on the development of Bayesian‐based domain search strategies using distributed multiple autonomous vehicles with intermittent communications. Multi‐sensor fusion based on observations from neighboring vehicles is implemented via binary Bayesian filtering. We prove theoretically that, under appropriate sensor models, the belief of whether there exists an object at every discretized cell in the domain will converge to the true state. An uncertainty map representing the entropies associated with these probabilities is constructed to guide the vehicles’ motion for domain exploration. Under the proposed strategies, all objects in the search domain will be detected. Different motion control schemes are numerically tested to confirm the effectiveness of the proposed search strategies.
Anatomy of the human mammary gland: Current status of knowledge
Authors: Hassiotou Foteini , Geddes Donna
Published: September 2012

Mammary glands are unique to mammals, with the specific function of synthesizing, secreting, and delivering milk to the newborn. Given this function, it is only during a pregnancy/lactation cycle that the gland reaches a mature developmental state via hormonal influences at the cellular level that effect drastic modifications in the micro‐ and macro‐anatomy of the gland, resulting in remodeling of the gland into a milk‐secretory organ. Pubertal and post‐pubertal development of the breast in females aids in preparing it to assume a functional state during pregnancy and lactation. Remarkably, this organ has the capacity to regress to a resting state upon cessation of lactation, and then undergo the same cycle of expansion and regression again in subsequent pregnancies during reproductive life. This plasticity suggests tight hormonal regulation, which is paramount for the normal function of the gland. This review presents the current status of knowledge of the normal macro‐ and micro‐anatomy of the human mammary gland and the distinct changes it undergoes during the key developmental stages that characterize it, from embryonic life through to post‐menopausal age. In addition, it discusses recent advances in our understanding of the normal function of the breast during lactation, with special reference to breastmilk, its composition, and how it can be utilized as a tool to advance knowledge on normal and aberrant breast development and function. Finally, anatomical and molecular traits associated with aberrant expansion of the breast are discussed to set the basis for future comparisons that may illuminate the origin of breast cancer. Clin. Anat. Clin. Anat. 26:29–48, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Categorizing the distribution of the saphenous nerve in relation to the great saphenous vein
Authors: Wilmot V.V. , Evans D.J.R.
Published: September 2012

Saphenous donor site neuralgia is a cause of morbidity post‐coronary artery bypass surgery. Saphenous nerve damage during harvesting of the great saphenous vein is thought to be responsible. We dissected 37 cadaveric lower limbs from the knee fold to the dorsal venous arches, to study the spatial relations of the saphenous nerve and great saphenous vein to identify its distribution within the leg. Distribution of the saphenous nerve was categorized into Type A, where the nerve traveled inferiorly and split into an anterior and posterior branch during its course between the knee fold and medial malleolus, Type B, where the nerve traveled anterior to the vein with a small caliber branch traveling posteriorly at the proximal end, Type C where two main branches originated at the knee fold, one anterior to and one posterior to the vein. Overall the vein and nerve crossed in 27 out of the 37 cases (73%), occurring between 5 and 29 cm from the malleolus (60% occurred between 16 and 26 cm). In 32 (86%) of cases, the distal part of the nerve and vein were tightly adhered to each other within a common sheath. The length of adherence ranged from 3 to 26 cm with an average of 14 cm. The saphenous nerve is highly vulnerable during harvesting of the great saphenous vein due to its close relationship and crossing branches. Knowledge of the distribution categories of the nerve can help guide the surgeon to avoid damaging nerve branches during harvesting. Clin. Anat. Clin. Anat. 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Typology of Municipal Wastewater Treatment Technologies in Latin America
Authors: Noyola Adalberto , Padilla‐Rivera Alejandro , Morgan‐Sagastume Juan Manuel , Güereca Leonor Patricia , Hernández‐Padilla Flor
Published: September 2012

This paper presents an analysis of the wastewater treatment plants in six Latin American and Caribbean countries. Based on a sample of 2734 municipal treatment facilities, the applied processes are classified by sizes (influent flow) and type of technologies. The distribution of the technologies is also presented for each of the six countries. In addition, a representative municipal wastewater characterization, based on influent data from 174 treatment plants, is proposed. Results show that stabilization ponds, activated sludge, and the upflow anaerobic sludge blanket reactors represent 80% of the treatment facilities of the sample, providing treatment to 81% of the total flow considered. Moreover, 67% of the plants in the sample are small (flow <25 L/s) and the very small facilities (influent flow <5 L/s) are extensively applied in the region (34% of the sample), especially in Mexico and Brazil. The use of very small treatment plants may result in low energy efficiency systems and on possible incompliance of the discharge standards. This common practice in several countries in Latin America should be revised in order to improve the environmental performance of such facilities.
Enhanced MRI relaxivity of Gd3+‐based contrast agents geometrically confined within porous nanoconstructs
Authors: Sethi Richa , Ananta Jeyarama S. , Karmonik Christof , Zhong Meng , Fung Steve H. , Liu Xuewu , Li King , Ferrari Mauro , Wilson Lon J. , Decuzzi Paolo
Published: September 2012

Gadolinium chelates, which are currently approved for clinical MRI use, provide relaxivities well below their theoretical limit, and they also lack tissue specificity. Recently, the geometrical confinement of Gd3+‐based contrast agents (CAs) within porous structures has been proposed as a novel, alternative strategy to improve relaxivity without chemical modification of the CA. Here, we have characterized and optimized the performance of MRI nanoconstructs obtained by loading [Gd(DTPA)(H2O)]2− (Magnevist®) into the pores of injectable mesoporous silicon particles. Nanoconstructs with three different pore sizes were studied, and at 60 MHz, they exhibited longitudinal relaxivities of ~24 m m−1 s−1 for 5–10 nm pores and ~10 m m−1 s−1 for 30 – 40 nm pores. No enhancement in relaxivity was observed for larger pores sizes. Using an outer‐sphere compound, [GdTTHA]3−, and mathematical modeling, it was demonstrated that the relaxivity enhancement is due to the increase in rotational correlation times (CA adsorbed on the pore walls) and diffusion correlation times (reduced mobility of the water molecules), as the pore sizes decreases. It was also observed that extensive CA adsorption on the outer surface of the silicon particles negates the advantages offered by nanoscale confinement. Upon incubation with HeLa cells, the nanoconstructs did not demonstrate significant cytotoxicity for up to 3 days post incubation, at different particle/cell ratios. In addition, the nanoconstructs showed complete degradation after 24 h of continuous agitation in phosphate‐buffered saline. These data support and confirm the hypothesis that the geometrical confinement of Gd3+‐chelate compounds into porous structures offers MRI nanoconstructs with enhanced relaxivity (up to 6 times for [Gd(DTPA)(H2O)]2−, and 4 times for [GdTTHA]3−) and, potentially, improved stability, reduced toxicity and tissue specificity. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fluid Flux and Clearance in Acute Lung Injury
Authors: Martin Greg S. , Brigham Kenneth L.
Published: September 2012

Acute lung injury (ALI) and its most severe form, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), were presciently described nearly two centuries ago by René Laennec, later to be described clinically in the 1950s and 1960s. Substantial advances have been made in understanding the pathogenesis of these forms of permeability pulmonary edema, including Starling forces and cellular transport mechanisms involved in the generation and resolution of this form of lung injury. Functional animal models and clinically applicable case definitions for ALI and ARDS were instrumental in gaining these new insights. Although no specific pharmacological therapies for ALI and ARDS yet exist, outcomes have improved with advancements in respiratory and fluid‐based supportive therapies, and methods to prevent the development or exacerbation of lung injury. Newer targeted therapies continue to be tested for efficacy in this condition where mortality rates frequently exceed 30%. In this article, we review the history of the pathophysiology of lung fluid and solute movement and the seminal clinical observations that brought that history to clinical relevance. We review the relevant lung structure and function and the dynamics of edema formation and resolution, and we describe the related clinical syndromes and the current treatment modalities. © 2012 American Physiological Society.Compr Physiol2:2471‐2480, 2012.
Nuclear Receptor Control of Enterohepatic Circulation
Authors: Gonzalez Frank J.
Published: September 2012

Enterohepatic circulation is responsible for the capture of bile acids and other steroids produced or metabolized in the liver and secreted to the intestine, for reabsorption back into the circulation and transport back to the liver. Bile acids are secreted from the liver in the form of mixed micelles that also contain phosphatidylcholines and cholesterol that facilitate the uptake of fats and vitamins from the diet due to the surfactant properties of bile acids and lipids. Bile acids are synthesized in the liver from cholesterol by a cascade of enzymes that carry out oxidation and conjugation reactions, and transported to the bile duct and gall bladder where they are stored before being released into the intestine. Bile flow from the gall bladder to the small intestine is triggered by food intake in accordance with its role in lipid and vitamin absorption from the diet. Bile acids are further metabolized by gut bacteria and are transported back to the circulation. Metabolites produced in the liver are termed primary bile acids or primary conjugated bile salts, while the metabolites generated by bacterial are called secondary bile acids. About 95% of bile acids are reabsorbed in the proximal and distal ileum into the hepatic portal vein and then into the liver sinusoids, where they are efficiently transported into the liver with little remaining in circulation. Each bile acid is reabsorbed about 20 times on average before being eliminated. Enterohepatic circulation is under tight regulation by nuclear receptor signaling, notably by the farnesoid X receptor (FXR). Published 2012.Compr Physiol2:2811‐2828, 2012.
Capillary electromigration based techniques in diagnostics of prion protein caused diseases
Authors: Sobrova Pavlina , Ryvolova Marketa , Adam Vojtech , Kizek Rene
Published: September 2012

Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies are a group of fatal neurodegenerative diseases with long incubation time. This group includes Creutzfeld‐Jakob disease, kuru, scrapie, chronic wasting disease, and bovine spongiform encephalopathy. Sensitive and specific detection of abnormal prion protein as “a source agent” of the above‐mentioned diseases in blood could provide a diagnostic test or a screening assay for animal and human prion protein diseases diagnostics. Therefore, diagnostic tests for prion protein diseases represent unique challenge requiring development of novel assays exploiting properties of prion protein complex. Presently, diagnostic methods such as protein misfolding cyclic amplification, conformation‐dependent immunoassay, dissociation‐enhanced lanthanide fluorescent immunoassay, fluorescence correlation spectroscopy, and/or flow microbead immunoassay are used for abnormal prion protein (PrPSc) detection. On the other hand, using of CE for PrPSc detection in body fluids is an attractive alternative; it has been already applied for the blood samples of infected sheep, elk, chimpanzee, as well as humans. In this review, assays for prion protein detection are summarized with special attention to capillary electromigration based techniques, such as CE, CIEF, and/or CGE. The potential of the miniaturized and integrated lab‐on‐chip devices is highlighted, emphasizing recent advances of this field in the proteomic analysis.
Hepatitis B Virus Polymerase Impairs Interferon-α–Induced STA Activation Through Inhibition of Importin-α5 and Protein Kinase C-δ
Authors: Chen Jieliang , Wu Min , Zhang Xiaonan , Zhang Wen , Zhang Zhanqing , Chen Lixiang , He Jing , Zheng Ye , Chen Cuncun , Wang Fan , Hu Yunwen , Zhou Xiaohui , Wang Cong , Xu Yang , Lu Mengji , Yuan Zhenghong
Published: September 2012

Treatment with exogenous interferon (IFN)-α is not effective in the majority of patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Recent evidence suggests that HBV has evolved strategies to block the nuclear translocation of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 1 to limit IFN-α–induced cellular antiviral responses. However, it remains unclear whether STAT1 translocation is impaired in chronic hepatitis B patients and what mechanisms are involved. Here we report that the expression of HBV polymerase (Pol) in human hepatic cell lines inhibited induction of IFN-stimulated genes and resulted in a weakened antiviral activity of IFN-α. Ectopic expression of Pol suppressed IFN-α–induced STAT1 serine 727 phosphorylation and STAT1/2 nuclear accumulation, whereas STAT1 tyrosine 701 phosphorylation, and STAT1-STAT2 heterodimer formation were not affected. Further studies demonstrated that Pol interacted with the catalytic domain of protein kinase C-δ (PKC-δ) and perturbed PKC-δ phosphorylation and its association with STAT1, which resulted in the suppression of STAT1 Ser727 phosphorylation. Moreover, Pol was found to interfere with nuclear transportation of STAT1/2 by competitively binding to the region of importin-α5 required for STAT1/2 recruitment. Truncation analysis suggested that the terminal protein and RNase H domains of Pol were able to bind to PKC-δ and importin-α5, respectively, and were responsible for the inhibition of IFN-α signaling. More importantly, the inhibition of STAT1 and PKC-δ phosphorylation were confirmed in a hydrodynamic-based HBV mouse model, and the blockage of IFN-α–induced STAT1/2 nuclear translocation was observed in HBV-infected cells from liver biopsies of chronic HBV patients.

Conclusions:

These results demonstrate a role for Pol in HBV-mediated antagonization of IFN-α signaling and provide a possible molecular mechanism by which HBV resists the IFN therapy and maintains its persistence.
Horizontal Gene Transfer in Choanoflagellates
Authors: Tucker Richard P.
Published: September 2012

Horizontal gene transfer (HGT), also known as lateral gene transfer, results in the rapid acquisition of genes from another organism. HGT has long been known to be a driving force in speciation in prokaryotes, and there is evidence for HGT from symbiotic and infectious bacteria to metazoans, as well as from protists to bacteria. Recently, it has become clear that as many as a 1,000 genes in the genome of the choanoflagellate Monosiga brevicollis may have been acquired by HGT. Interestingly, these genes reportedly come from algae, bacteria, and other choanoflagellate prey. Some of these genes appear to have allowed an ancestral choanoflagellate to exploit nutrient‐poor environments and were not passed on to metazoan descendents. However, some of these genes are also found in animal genomes, suggesting that HGT into a common ancestor of choanozoans and animals may have contributed to metazoan evolution. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 320B:1–9, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Large‐scale diagnostics of extratropical cyclogenesis in eastern Australia
Authors: Dowdy Andrew J. , Mills Graham A. , Timbal Bertrand
Published: September 2012

Extratropical cyclones that develop near the east coast of Australia often have severe consequences such as flash flooding and damaging winds and seas, as well as beneficial consequences such as being responsible for heavy rainfall events that contribute significantly to total rainfall and runoff. There is subjective evidence that the development of most major events, commonly known as East Coast Lows (ECLs), is associated with the movement of a high amplitude upper‐tropospheric trough system over eastern Australia. To test this hypothesis, this study examines a number of large‐scale diagnostic quantities in the upper‐troposphere associated with extratropical cyclogenesis. Climatologies of these diagnostic quantities, based on reanalyses, are examined and compared with a database of observed ECL events. Results are examined in relation to seasonal and geographic variations. A diagnostic quantity based on geostrophic vorticity is shown to provide a good indication of the likely occurrence of east‐coast cyclogenesis. The potential application of these diagnostics to global climate model simulations of past and future climates is also discussed.
Some ideas on the definition of Raman spectroscopic detection limits for the analysis of art and archaeological objects
Authors: Vandenabeele Peter , Moens Luc
Published: September 2012

Raman spectroscopy is increasingly often used for the investigation of archaeological and art objects. Often, questions are asked concerning achievable limits of detection. However, the definition of Raman spectroscopic detection limits is not straightforward, especially in art analysis where the investigation of solid particles, often dispersed in a solid matrix, is involved. Moreover, apart from the definition of the limit of detection, as often qualitative analysis is performed, it is equally necessary to establish a definition for the limit of identification of a product. Moreover, some ideas are discussed on the description of relative Raman band intensities and on how to include this in the definition of the limit of identification. In this paper, some topics are raised, and we hope to initiate with this paper future discussions in the Raman spectrometry community on this topic. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Functional properties of carotenoids originating from algae
Authors: Christaki Efterpi , Bonos Eleftherios , Giannenas Ilias , Florou‐Paneri Panagiota
Published: September 2012

Carotenoids are isoprenoid molecules which are synthesised de novo by photosynthetic plants, fungi and algae and are responsible for the orange, yellow and some red colours of various fruits and vegetables. Carotenoids are lipophilic compounds, some of which act as provitamins A. These compounds can be divided into xanthophylls and carotenes. Many macroalgae and microalgae are rich in carotenoids, where these compounds aid in the absorption of sunlight. Industrially, these carotenoids are used as food pigments (in dairy products, beverages, etc.), as feed additives, in cosmetics and in pharmaceuticals, especially nowadays when there is an increasing demand by consumers for natural products. Production of carotenoids from algae has many advantages compared to other sources; for example, their production is cheap, easy and environmentally friendly; their extraction is easier, with higher yields, and there is no lack of raw materials or limited seasonal variation. Recently, there has been considerable interest in dietary carotenoids with respect to their antioxidant properties and their ability to reduce the incidence of some chronic diseases where free radicals are involved. Possibly, carotenoids protect cells from oxidative stress by quenching singlet oxygen damage with various mechanisms. Therefore, carotenoids derived from algae could be a leading natural resource in the research for potential functional ingredients. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Percutaneous laser ablation under ultrasound guidance for fetal hyperechogenic microcystic lung lesions with hydrops: a single center cohort and a literature review
Authors: Ruano Rodrigo , da Silva Marcos Marques , Salustiano Eugenia Maria Assunção , Kilby Mark David , Tannuri Uenis , Zugaib Marcelo
Published: September 2012

Objective

To evaluate the perinatal outcomes in hydropic fetuses with congenital microcystic pulmonary lesions that underwent percutaneous, invasive, laser therapy.

Method

This retrospective study reviews the literature and our experience between 2004 and 2010. Characteristics of the cystic lung lesions, liquor volume (presence of polyhydramnios or not), localization of ablation (vascular vs interstitial) and gestational age at which the procedure was performed were related to outcome (survival).

Results

In total, 16 fetuses with congenital lung lesions underwent ‘invasive’ percutaneous laser ablation, seven performed in our center and nine published cases. Survival rate was higher in fetuses with a subsequent postnatal diagnosis of bronchopulmonary sequestration (87.5%) compared with congenital adenomatoid malformation (28.6%; p = 0.04). The technique of vascular ablation was more successful (100%) than interstitial ablation (25.0%, p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Percutaneous vascular laser ablation seems to be effective for bronchopulmonary sequestration in hydropic fetuses. Outcomes were worst following interstitial ablation for microcystic congenital adenomatoid with hydrops. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proteomic profiling of cancer stem cells derived from primary tumors of HER2/Neu transgenic mice
Authors: Kanojia Deepak , Zhou Weidong , Zhang Jiajia , Jie Chunfa , Lo Pang‐Kuo , Wang Qian , Chen Hexin
Published: September 2012

Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) overexpression leads to mammary tumorigenesis and its elevated levels lead to increase in cancer stem cells (CSCs), invasion, and metastasis. CSCs are resistant to radiation/chemotherapeutic drugs and are believed to be responsible for recurrence/relapse of cancer. CSCs are isolated using flow cytometry based sorting, although reliable, this technology hinders the convenient identification of molecular targets of CSCs. Therefore to understand the molecular players of increased CSC through HER2 overexpression and to develop meaningful targets for combination therapy, we isolated and characterized breast CSCs through convenient tumorsphere culture. We identified the altered protein expression in CSC as compared to non‐CSC using LC‐MS/MS and confirmed those results using qRT‐PCR and Western blotting. Ferritin heavy chain 1 (FTH1) was identified as a candidate gene, which is involved in iron metabolism and iron depletion significantly decreased the self‐renewal of CSCs. We further performed in silico analysis of altered genes in tumorsphere and identified a set of genes (PTMA, S100A4, S100A6, TNXRD1, COX‐1, COX‐2, KRT14, and FTH1), representing possible molecular targets, which in combination showed a promise to be used as prognostic markers for breast cancer.
Mass spectrometric characterization of recombinant rat 5‐hydroxytryptamine receptor 1A (5‐HT1AR) expressed in tsA201 human embryonic kidney cells
Authors: Heo Seok , Yang Jae‐Won , Huber Marie L. , Planyavsky Melanie , Bennett Keiryn L. , Lubec Gert
Published: September 2012

The 5‐hydroxytryptamine 1A receptor (serotonin 1A receptor; 5‐HT1AR) is involved in a large series of brain functions, and roles in anxiety, depression, and cognition have been reported. So far, published information on mass spectrometrical characterization of 5‐HT1AR is limited to the presence of two 5‐HT1AR peptides in rat's whole brain as observed by in‐solution digestion followed by LC‐MS/MS. Knowledge about the protein sequence and PTMs, however, would have implications for generation of specific antibodies and designing studies on the 5‐HT1AR at the protein level. A rat recombinant 5‐HT1AR was extracted from the tsA201 cell line, run using several gel‐based principles with subsequent in‐gel digestion with several proteases, chymotrypsin, trypsin, AspN, proteinase K, and pepsin followed by nano‐LC‐ESI‐MS/MS analysis on a high capacity ion trap and an LTQ Orbitrap Velos. Using two search engines, Mascot and Modiro™, the recombinant 5‐HT1AR was identified showing 94.55% sequence coverage. A single phosphorylation at S301 was identified and verified by phosphatase treatment and a series of amino acid substitutions were detected. Characterization of 5‐HT1AR, a key player of brain functions and neurotransmission, was shown and may enable generation of specific antibodies, design of future, and interpretation of previous studies in the rat at the protein level.
Determining the excited‐state substituent constants of meta‐substituent from 3,4'‐disubstituted stilbenes
Authors: Cao Chenzhong , Sheng Bin , Chen Guanfan
Published: September 2012

In this paper, 61 samples of 3,4'‐disubstituted stilbenes and 18 samples of 3,3'‐disubstituted stilbenes were synthesized, and their UV data were measured in anhydrous ethanol. Based on the UV absorption energy (wavenumber) of 3,4'‐disubstituted stilbenes, the excited‐state substituent constants of meta‐substituent were determined by means of curve‐fitting. The availability of was confirmed by the good correlation with the UV absorption energy of 3,4'‐disubstituted stilbenes and 4,4'‐disubstituted stilbenes. Further, using the obtained constants and the correlation equation, we calculated the UV wavenumbers of 3,3'‐disubstituted stilbenes, and the calculated wavenumbers are in good agreement with the experimental values. These results verified that the excited‐state substituent constants of meta‐substituent are reliable parameter to scale the effect of meta‐substituent on the UV absorption energy. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The combination of plumbagin with androgen withdrawal causes profound regression of prostate tumors in vivo
Authors: Abedinpour Parisa , Baron Véronique T. , Chrastina Adrian , Welsh John , Borgström Per
Published: September 2012

BACKGROUND

Hormonal ablation is the standard treatment for disseminated androgen‐dependent prostate cancer. Although tumor growth is controlled at first, the tumor invariably recurs in the form of castration‐resistant prostate cancer. This study assessed the efficacy of a new therapeutic strategy that combines plumbagin, a naturally occurring naphthoquinone, with androgen ablation.

METHODS

Viewing microscopy chambers were placed in the dorsal skinfold of mice. Syngeneic prostate tissue was grafted within the chambers and allowed to vascularize. H2B‐GFP/PTEN‐P2 prostate cancer cells were co‐implanted on top of the grafted prostate tissue. Androgen ablation was achieved using surgical castration. Intact and castrated mice were administered plumbagin or sham treatment. Tumor growth, mitosis and apoptosis were monitored in real‐time using fluorescent Intra‐Vital Microscopy. The mechanism of action of plumbagin was explored using human and mouse prostate cancer cells.

RESULTS

Whereas both plumbagin and castration alone impeded tumor growth, only the combination of plumbagin and castration caused profound tumor regression in vivo, mostly due to increased apoptosis of the tumor cells. The cytotoxicity of plumbagin was not affected by androgens in vitro, suggesting that microenvironmental factors not present in culture play a crucial role in the combination effect. Plumbagin‐induced cell death was mediated, at least in part, by activation of ERK and was due to generation of reactive oxygen species, because it was abolished by the anti‐oxidant N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine.

CONCLUSION

Androgen deprivation in combination with plumbagin may provide a significant improvement over androgen deprivation alone and deserves further evaluation. Prostate 73: 489–499, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sensitivity of the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana (Bals.‐Criv.) Vuill. to selected herbicides
Authors: Kos Katarina , Celar Franci A
Published: September 2012

BACKGROUND

The in vitro effect of six commonly used herbicides viz., amidosulfuron, dicamba, metribuzin, pyridate, S‐metolachlor and tembotrione on mycelial growth of entomopathogenic fungus Beauveriabassiana (ATCC 74040) was investigated. Mycelial growthrates at 15 and 25°C were evaluated on PDA plates containing 100, 75, 50, 25, 12.5, 6.25 and 0% of the recommended application rate of each selected herbicide. The tested herbicides were classified in 4 scoring categories based on reduction of mycelial growth in toxicity tests.

RESULTS

All six herbicides had a fungistatic effect of varying intensities, dependent on their rate in medium, on B. bassiana. The present study showed that B. bassiana is sensitive to all tested herbicides, particularly at recommended as well as lower field rates. Metribuzin, S‐metolachlor and tembotrione had a strong fungistatic effect on mycelial growth even at rates 25 and 12.5%.Pyridate was slightly harmful, depending on the rate and temperature. Dicamba and amidosulfuron had slight effect on mycelial growth. Sporulation and conidial germination of B. bassiana were significantly inhibited by all tested herbicides. Amidosulfuron and dicamba, both at 100% rate, had the lowest inhibitory effect on sporulation, i.e. 24% and 44%, respectively. Other herbicides in test showed much higher inhibitory effect on sporulation (69–95%). With exception of dicamba with 33% of conidial germination inhibition all other herbicides in test inhibited conidial germination for 70–100%. At 200% dosage, inhibition rates even increased.

CONCLUSION

Of all tested herbicides, amidosulfuron and dicamba showed the least adverse effects and are therefore probably compatible with B. bassiana in the field.© 2012 Society of Chemical Industry