bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Beginnings of Modern Research on Propolis in Poland
Authors: Kuropatnicki Andrzej K. , Szliszka Ewelina , Kłósek Małgorzata , Król Wojciech
Published: June 2013

Propolis studies in Poland were initiated by Professor Stan Scheller in the 1960s. It was a team of Polish researchers who developed a method of introducing hydrophobic ethanol extracts of propolis (EEP) into aqueous solutions, which enabled the study of their biological properties. The studies performed in Poland showed that EEP possesses antioxidant, radioprotective, and immunostimulating properties. It was possible to demonstrate antibacterial activity of propolis on Gram-positive bacteria, virulentMycobacterium tuberculosis, and protozoa as well as stimulating activity of aqueous extracts of propolis on proliferation of cellsin vitro. Polish investigators showed that propolis stimulates regeneration of tissue, acts as antioxidant and radioprotector, has strong immunostimulative properties, affects animals’ life span by extending it, and improves intellectual and life functions of the elderly.
Aortic Stiffness Determines Diastolic Blood Flow Reversal in the Descending Thoracic Aorta
Authors: Hashimoto Junichiro , Ito Sadayoshi
Published: June 2013

Aortic stiffening often precedes cardiovascular diseases, including stroke, but the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms remain obscure. We hypothesized that such abnormalities could be attributable to altered central blood flow dynamics. In 296 patients with uncomplicated hypertension, Doppler velocity pulse waveforms were recorded at the proximal descending aorta and carotid artery to calculate the reverse/forward flow ratio and diastolic/systolic flow index, respectively. Tonometric waveforms were recorded on the radial artery to estimate aortic pressure and characteristic impedance (
Z
0
) and to determine carotid–femoral (aortic) and carotid–radial (peripheral) pulse wave velocities. In all subjects, the aortic flow waveform was bidirectional, comprising systolic forward and diastolic reverse flows. The aortic reverse/forward flow ratio (35±10%) was positively associated with parameters of aortic stiffness (including pulse wave velocity,
Z
0
, and aortic/peripheral pulse wave velocity ratio), independent of age, body mass index, aortic diameter, and aortic pressure. The carotid flow waveform was unidirectional and bimodal with systolic and diastolic maximal peaks. There was a positive relationship between the carotid diastolic/systolic flow index (28±9%) and aortic reverse/forward flow ratio, which remained significant after adjustment for aortic stiffness and other related parameters. The Bland–Altman plots showed a close time correspondence between aortic reverse and carotid diastolic flow peaks. In conclusion, aortic stiffness determines the extent of flow reversal from the descending aorta to the aortic arch, which contributes to the diastolic antegrade flow into the carotid artery. This hemodynamic relationship constitutes a potential mechanism linking increased aortic stiffness, altered flow dynamics, and increased stroke risk in hypertension.
An Intertextual Journey in Prudentius, Peristephanon 9
Authors: O’Hogan Cillian
Published: June 2013

Abstract

This paper investigates the influence of the Aeneid on the ninth poem of Prudentius’ Peristephanon. In the poem, Prudentius is on his way to Rome when he discovers the tomb of St. Cassian, and an account of the saint’s passion follows. The framing narrative employs some of the conventions of pilgrimage literature, while the poem as a whole contains allusions to Vergil’s Aeneid, and I argue that through these allusions Prudentius models his journey to Rome on the travels of Aeneas. This can be seen as part of Prudentius’ larger project to map Christian sites of interest onto the Roman empire.
Perks Diplomacy: The Role of Perquisites in Mediation
Authors: Tieku Thomas Kwasi
Published: June 2013

Abstract

This article examines impacts of luxurious perks, such as paid daily allowances on peace talks. It draws on the case of the Burundian peace processes held in Arusha, Tanzania and the Seventh Round of the Inter-Sudanese Peace Talks held in Abuja, Nigeria to show that perks can unintentionally prolong peace talks. Perks bestowed on delegates to the talks seduced the conflicting parties away from whatever interest they might have had in actually reaching an agreement. For some, living free of charge in five-star hotels and receiving the equivalent of five months’ pay in one week of per diems made continued talks more attractive than achieving peace. Many of the feuding parties found the perks of greater value for their effort – or rather, lack thereof – and they shared an incentive to keep the talks going.
A phylogenetic analysis and taxonomic revision of the oribatid mite family Malaconothridae (Acari: Oribatida), with new species of Tyrphonothrus and Malaconothrus from Australia
Authors: COLLOFF MATTHEW J. , CAMERON STEPHEN L.
Published: June 2013

Hitherto, the Malaconothridae contained Malaconothrus Berlese, 1904 and Trimalaconothrus Berlese, 1916, defined by the possession of one pre-tarsal claw (monodactyly) or by three claws (tridactyly) respectively. However, monodactyly is a convergent apomorphy within the Oribatida and an unreliable character for a classification. Therefore we undertook a phylogenetic analysis of 102 species as the basis for a taxonomic review of the Malaconothridae. We identified two major clades, equivalent to the genera Tyrphonothrus Knülle, 1957 and Malaconothrus. These genera are redefined. Trimala-conothrus becomes the junior subjective synonym of Malaconothrus. Some 42 species of Trimalaconothrus are recom-bined to Malaconothrus and 15 species to Tyrphonothrus. Homonyms created by the recombinations are rectified. The replacement name M. hammerae nom. nov. is proposed for M. angulatus Hammer, 1958, the junior homonym of M. an-gulatus (Willmann, 1931) and the replacement name M. luxtoni nom. nov. is proposed for M. scutatus Luxton, 1987, the junior homonym of M. scutatus Mihelčič, 1959. Trimalaconothrus iteratus Subías, 2004 is an unnecessary replacement name and is a junior objective synonym of Malaconothrus longirostrum (Hammer 1966). Malaconothrus praeoccupatus Subías, 2004 is a junior objective synonym of M. machadoi Balogh & Mahunka, 1969. Malaconothrus obsessus (Subías, 2004), an unnecessary replacement name for Trimalaconothrus albulus Hammer 1966 sensu Tseng 1982, becomes an available name for what is in fact a previously-undescribed species of Malaconothrus. We describe four new species of Tyrphonothrus: T. gnammaensis sp. nov. from Western Australia, T. gringai sp. nov. and T. maritimus sp. nov. from New South Wales, and T. taylori sp. nov. from Queensland. We describe six new species of Malaconothrus: M. beecroftensis sp. nov., M. darwini sp. nov. M. gundungurra sp. nov. and M. knuellei sp. nov. from New South Wales, M. jowettae sp. nov. from Norfolk Island, and M. talaitae sp. nov. from Victoria.
A new species of the genus Tenuipalpus (Prostigmata: Tenuipalpidae) with remarks on a conceivable ovipositor in flat mites
Authors: FLECHTMANN CARLOS H.W. , NORONHA ALOYSÉIA C.S.
Published: June 2013

A new mite species Tenuipalpus bacuri sp. nov. (Prostigmata: Tenuipalpidae) from Platonia insignis Mar. (Clusiaceae) is described from Brazil (Para). Setal notation are as in Mesa et al. 2009; all measurements are in micrometres.
The talitrid amphipods of Tonga (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Talitridae)
Authors: LOWRY J. K. , BOPIAH ARUNDATHI
Published: June 2013

One new genus and four species of talitrid amphipods are described from Tonga: Platorchestia ano sp. nov.; Talorchestia spinipalma (Dana, 1852); Tongorchestia pangaimotu gen. nov., sp. nov.; T. towneri sp. nov.
Enhypnon Carter: a taxonomic revision of an endemic Australian genus of ground-dwelling beetles (Coleoptera: Zopheridae)
Authors: TURCO FEDERICA , ŚLIPIŃSKI ADAM , LAMBKIN CHRISTINE L.
Published: June 2013

The Australian endemic genus Enhypnon Carter (Coleoptera, Zopheridae) is revised, including the description of six new species: E. cordicollis sp. n., E. kosciuszko sp. n., E. simplex sp. n., E. squamosum sp. n., E. latitarsis sp. n., and E. tu-berculatum sp. n., and the re-description of four species: E. costatum (Carter, 1919) comb. n. (from Mnionophilus), E. horridum (Carter, 1919), E. laticeps Carter, 1919 and E. punctatum Carter, 1927. A lectotype and paralectotype are herein designated for E. laticeps. A key to species is provided. All species are illustrated with line-drawings and high-resolution photographs. Detailed locality records are given for each species and distribution maps are provided. Distribution and hab-itat preference data are discussed.
A new species of Paropsisterna Motschulsky, 1860, a significant pest of plantation eucalypts in Tasmania and Ireland (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Chrysomelinae)
Authors: REID CHRIS A. M. , DE LITTLE DAVID W.
Published: June 2013

A new species of chrysomeline leaf beetle, Paropsisterna selmani Reid & de Little, is described, including all larval in-stars. This species, native to Australia, is now a significant pest of Eucalyptus plantations in Australia and Ireland, and has been recorded in southern England. Its occurrence in the British Isles represents the first record of establishment of a eu-calypt feeding chrysomelid in Europe.
A New Genus of Highly Specialized Ants in Cretaceous Burmese Amber (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
Authors: BARDEN PHILLIP , GRIMALDI DAVID
Published: June 2013

A new genus of ants, Zigrasimecia Barden and Grimaldi, is described for a new and uniquely specialized species, Z. ton-sora Barden and Grimaldi n.sp., preserved in Cretaceous amber from Myanmar. The amber is radiometrically dated at 99 myo. Zigrasimecia is closely related to another basal genus of ants known only in Burmese and French Cretaceous amber, Sphecomyrmodes Engel and Grimaldi, based in part on the shared possession of a comb of pegs on the clypeal margin, as well as mandible structure. Highly specialized features of Zigrasimecia include extensive development of the clypeal comb, a thick brush of setae on the oral surface of the mandibles and on the labrum, and a head that is broad, flattened, and which bears a crown of blackened, rugose cuticle. Mouthparts are hypothesized to have functioned in a unique man-ner, showing no clear signs of dentition representative of “chewing” or otherwise processing solid food. Although all ants in Burmese amber are basal, stem-group taxa, there is an unexpected diversity of mouthpart morphologies and probable feeding modes.
A new microendemic species of Tropidurus (Squamata: Tropiduridae) from southern Brazil and revalidation of Tropidurus catalanensis Gudynas & Skuk, 1983
Authors: KUNZ TOBIAS SARAIVA , BORGES-MARTINS MÁRCIO
Published: June 2013

The South American and cis-andean lizard genus Tropidurus has a complex taxonomic history. Most species were recently described and previous revisions included few specimens from the southern part of the continent. Tropidurus torquatus has the broadest geographic distribution in the genus and several morphological and ecological differences were described within its distribution. We analyzed the geographic variation in external morphological characters of Tropidurus torquatus, including large number of samples from southern Brazil. Tropidurus catalanensis is revalidated and Tropidurus imbituba sp. nov., with a restrict distribution in the southern coast of Brazil, is described. The new species is distinguished from Tropidurus catalanensis by the number of dorsal scales. It can be distinguished from T. catalanensis and T. torquatus by a distinct orange ventral coloration in adults, which can reach the lateral portion of the body in adult males. Our analysis also suggests that at least two other undescribed species could be recognized under the name Tropidurus torquatus in southeastern and central Brazil.
Erpobdellid leeches (Annelida, Clitellata, Hirudinida) from Tunisia: New records with the description of a new Trocheta species
Authors: AHMED RAJA BEN , BIELECKI ALEKSANDER , CICHOCKA JOANNA M. , TEKAYA SAÏDA , GORZEL MAŁGORZATA , HARRATH ABDUL HALIM
Published: June 2013

Up to now in Tunisia, freshwater Hirudinida are represented by two mainly haematophagous families: Hirudinidae and Glossiphonidae, and a predatory one: the family Erpobdellidae. The present study provides new information on the diver-sity and taxonomy of erpobdellid leeches. Identification was based, in addition to morphological data, on the length of sperm ducts and the lengths of ovisacs in relation to the neurosomite (ns) and on the shape and size of the male atrium. Five taxons are found. Two subspecies are reported for the first time in the country: Dina punctata punctata Johansson, 1927 and Dina punctata maroccana Nesemann and Neubert, 1994. Tunisian populations of two species, Erpobdella tes-tacea (Savigny, 1820) and Trocheta africana Nesemann and Neubert, 1994, are described, with records of new localities. The new Trocheta tunisiana n. sp. is discovered and described in detail. Trocheta species live in springs in elevated areas while Erpobdella seem to prefer low altitude reservoirs. A comprehensive comparison of the three genera is presented. The disparity between the actual systematics and phylogeny is discussed. This study gives also a detailed distribution of the five species in the north of Tunisia with notes on ecological preference of the genus Dina. Finally a key for the deter-mination of freshwater erpobdellid species from Tunisia is proposed.
The genus Cnemidophorus (Squamata: Teiidae) in State of Piauí, northeastern Brazil, with description of a new species
Authors: DA SILVA MARCÉLIA BASTO , ÁVILA-PIRES TERESA C.S.
Published: June 2013

The state of Piauí, northeastern Brazil, is covered mainly by ‘cerrado’ (33% of the total area of the state) and ‘caatinga’ (37%) vegetations, with another 19% occupied by ecotonal zones. Piauí lies within the known distribution of the Cnemi-dophorus ocellifer species group, currently composed of ten species. Until recently only C. ocellifer (Spix, 1825), a name recognized to cover several species, was recorded from Piauí. Currently two other species are registered from Piauí: C. confusionibus Arias, Carvalho, Rodrigues and Zaher 2011 and C. venetacaudus Arias, Carvalho, Rodrigues and Zaher 2011. We analyzed the external and hemipenial morphology of specimens from different localities in the state and our re-sults indicate the presence of at least four species: C.cf. ocellifer, C. confusionibus, C. venetacaudus and C. pyrrhogularis sp. nov. Hemipenial analysis corroborates the existence of two subgroups within C. ocellifer species group. Cnemidopho-rus pyrrhogularis sp. nov., a member of the ocellifer subgroup, occurs in the northern part of Piauí, in ecotonal areas, and differs from the remaining species of the genus mainly on hemipenial morphology, number of femoral pores, number the lamellae under fourth finger and fourth toe, and color pattern. Diagnoses and hemipenis description of the four taxa are presented, as well as a detailed description of the new species.
Pupal cases of four Nearctic species of Laphria (Diptera: Asilidae)
Authors: DENNIS D. STEVE , BARNES JEFFREY K.
Published: June 2013

The pupal cases of the Nearctic robber flies Laphria canis Williston, 1883: L. ferox Williston, 1883: L. macquarti (Banks, 1917): and L. posticata Say, 1824 are described and illustrated. A key is provided to the pupal cases of these and seven other species of Laphria previously described. A revised key also is included for the pupal cases of three genera of Laphri-inae: Andrenosoma, Lampria, and Laphria.s,j� vl�3# �t! gues and Zaher 2011 and C. venetacaudus Arias, Carvalho, Rodrigues and Zaher 2011. We analyzed the external and hemipenial morphology of specimens from different localities in the state and our re-sults indicate the presence of at least four species: C.cf. ocellifer, C. confusionibus, C. venetacaudus and C. pyrrhogularis sp. nov. Hemipenial analysis corroborates the existence of two subgroups within C. ocellifer species group. Cnemidopho-rus pyrrhogularis sp. nov., a member of the ocellifer subgroup, occurs in the northern part of Piauí, in ecotonal areas, and differs from the remaining species of the genus mainly on hemipenial morphology, number of femoral pores, number the lamellae under fourth finger and fourth toe, and color pattern. Diagnoses and hemipenis description of the four taxa are presented, as well as a detailed description of the new species.
A Revision of the New World genus Lepidophora Westwood, 1835 (Diptera, Bombyliidae, Ecliminae) with a key to the species
Authors: RODRIGUES PAULA FERNANDA MOTTA , LAMAS CARLOS JOSÉ EINICKER
Published: June 2013

The bombyliid genus Lepidophora has a distribution restricted to the New World. The genus is composed by eight species, which are revised and redescribed herein: five restricted to the Neotropical region (L. acroleuca Painter, 1930, L. culici­formis Walker, 1850, L. cuneata Painter, 1939, L. secutor Walker, 1857 and L. trypoxylona Hall, 1981), two restricted to the Nearctic region (L. lepidocera (Wiedemann, 1828) and L. lutea Painter, 1962) and one species occurring in Nearctic and Neotropical regions (L. vetusta Walker, 1857). The main characters of the external morphology of adults and male and female terminalia are illustrated. An key to species is presented.
On the Temperature Structure Parameter and Sensible Heat Flux over Helsinki from Sonic Anemometry and Scintillometry
Authors: Wood C. R. , Kouznetsov R. D. , Gierens R. , Nordbo A. , Järvi L. , Kallistratova M. A. , Kukkonen J.
Published: June 2013

Two commercial large-aperture scintillometers, Scintec BLS900, were tested on pathlengths of 1840 and 4200 m at about 45–65 m above ground in Helsinki, Finland. From July 2011 through June 2012, large variability in diurnal and annual cycles of both the temperature structure parameter and sensible heat flux were observed. Scintillometer data were compared with data from two eddy-covariance stations. A robust method was developed for the calculation of from raw sonic-anemometer data. In contrast to many earlier studies that solely present the values of , the main focus here is on comparisons of itself. This has advantages, because optical-wavelength scintillometers measure with few assumptions, while the determination of implies the applicability of the Monin–Obukhov similarity theory, which has several inherent limitations. The histograms of compare well between sonic and scintillometer. In-depth analysis is focused on one of the scintillometer paths: both and comparisons gave similar and surprisingly high correlation coefficients (0.85 for and 0.84–0.95 for in unstable conditions), given the differences between the two measurement techniques, substantial sensor separation, and different source areas.
Estimating Changes in Near-Shore Bathymetry with Subaerial Surveys
Authors: Doria André , Guza R. T.
Published: June 2013

Surveys of the subaerial beach (e.g., landward of approximately the MSL depth contour) are widely used to evaluate temporal changes in sand levels over large alongshore reaches. Here, seasonal beach face volume changes based on full bathymetry beach profiles (to ~8 m in depth) are compared with estimates based on the subaerial section of the profile. The profiles span 15 years and 75 km of Southern California shoreline, where seasonal vertical fluctuations in near-shore sand levels of a few meters are common. In years with relatively low winter wave energy, most erosion occurs above the MSL contour, and subaerial surveys capture as much as 0.8 of the total (relatively small) seasonal beach face volume change. In response to more energetic winter waves, beach face erosion increases and occurs as deep as 3 m below MSL, and subaerial surveys capture as little as 0.2 of the total beach face volume change. Patchy, erosion-resistant rock and cobble layers contribute to alongshore variation of the subaerial fraction of beach face volume change.
Clinical, Morphologic, and Immunohistochemical Features of Canine Orbital Hibernomas
Authors: Ravi M. , Schobert C. S. , Kiupel M. , Dubielzig R. R.
Published: June 2013

Hibernomas are uncommon benign tumors of brown fat that occur in humans and various animal species. They have not been observed in the orbit of dogs, humans, or other animals. Here we report clinical, light and electron microscopic, and immunohistochemical features of a series of 7 hibernomas arising in the orbital region of dogs. These neoplasms occurred in adult dogs with no breed predilection. The mean age of the affected dogs was 10.4 years (range, 8–13 years). All neoplasms presented as soft lobular masses composed of predominantly round or polygonal neoplastic cells with granular eosinophilic and vacuolated cytoplasm resembling adipocytes. The cytoplasm contained large numbers of pleomorphic mitochondria with dense matrices and indistinct cristae. Immunohistochemical evaluation confirmed positive labeling of neoplastic cells from all cases with uncoupling protein 1 (UCP-1) consistent with brown fat differentiation. Interestingly, rare neoplastic cells also expressed myogenin and myoD, possibly suggesting a common progenitor cell for neoplastic brown adipose and skeletal muscle cells.
Cardiac Lesions in 30 Dogs Naturally Infected With Leishmania infantum chagasi
Authors: Rosa F. A. , Leite J. H. A. C. , Braga E. T. , Moreira P. R. R. , Baltazar F. H. , Biondo A. W. , Padua P. P. M. , Vasconcelos R. O. , Camacho A. A. , Ferreira W. L. , Machado G. F. , Marcondes M.
Published: June 2013

The hearts of 30 dogs naturally infected with Leishmania infantum chagasi were evaluated histologically and immunohistochemically. Myocardial lesions were detected in all dogs, including lymphoplasmacytic myocarditis (27/30), myonecrosis (24/30), increased interstitial collagen (22/30), lepromatous-type granulomatous myocarditis (7/30), fibrinoid vascular change (3/30), and vasculitis (1/30). The parasite was detected in the hearts of 20 of 30 dogs. The number of parasitized cells correlated with the intensity of the inflammation and with the number of granulomas. The results indicate that cardiac lesions are prevalent in dogs with naturally occurring leishmaniasis even in the absence of clinical signs of cardiac disease.
Histologic Characteristics and KIT Staining Patterns of Equine Cutaneous Mast Cell Tumors
Authors: Clarke L. , Simon A. , Ehrhart E. J. , Mulick J. , Charles B. , Powers B. , Duncan C.
Published: June 2013

Mast cell tumors are uncommon in horses and typically have a benign clinical course, but there are occasional reports of more aggressive behavior. The objective of this study was to review histologic features and KIT expression patterns of 72 previously diagnosed equine cutaneous mast cell tumors to determine if either is associated with clinical outcomes. Biopsy specimens were reviewed using histologic criteria derived from grading schemes, and KIT antibody expression patterns used in canine tumors and surveys were sent to referring veterinarians for follow-up clinical data. Arabians were overrepresented relative to the reference population. Most tumors were well differentiated with low mitotic rates (96%), and aberrant KIT staining patterns, as described in dogs, were uncommonly identified (12%). Associated clinical disease was uncommon and no tumors exhibited malignant behavior. Overall, KIT staining pattern and histologic features were not associated with poor clinical outcome or abnormal tumor behavior.
A comparison of sex-specific immune signatures in Gulf War illness and chronic fatigue syndrome
Authors: Smylie Anne Liese , Broderick Gordon , Fernandes Henrique , Razdan Shirin , Barnes Zachary , Collado Fanny , Sol Connie , Fletcher Mary Ann , Klimas Nancy
Published: June 2013

Background

Though potentially linked to the basic physiology of stress response we still have no clear understanding of Gulf War Illness (GWI), a debilitating condition presenting complex immune, endocrine and neurological symptoms. Here we compared male (n = 20) and female (n = 10) veterans with GWI separately against their healthy counterparts (n = 21 male, n = 9 female) as well as subjects with chronic fatigue syndrome/ myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) (n = 12 male, n = 10 female).

Methods

Subjects were assessed using a Graded eXercise Test (GXT) with blood drawn prior to exercise, at peak effort (VO2 max) and 4-hours post exercise. Using chemiluminescent imaging we measured the concentrations of IL-1a, 1b, 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12 (p70), 13, 15, 17 and 23, IFNγ, TNFα and TNFβ in plasma samples from each phase of exercise. Linear classification models were constructed using stepwise variable selection to identify cytokine co-expression patterns characteristic of each subject group.

Results

Classification accuracies in excess of 80% were obtained using between 2 and 5 cytokine markers. Common to both GWI and CFS, IL-10 and IL-23 expression contributed in an illness and time-dependent manner, accompanied in male subjects by NK and Th1 markers IL-12, IL-15, IL-2 and IFNγ. In female GWI and CFS subjects IL-10 was again identified as a delineator but this time in the context of IL-17 and Th2 markers IL-4 and IL-5. Exercise response also differed between sexes: male GWI subjects presented characteristic cytokine signatures at rest but not at peak effort whereas the opposite was true for female subjects.

Conclusions

Though individual markers varied, results collectively supported involvement of the IL-23/Th17/IL-17 axis in the delineation of GWI and CFS in a sex-specific way.
Impact of HDL genetic risk scores on coronary artery calcified plaque and mortality in individuals with type 2 diabetes from the Diabetes Heart Study
Authors: Raffield Laura M , Cox Amanda J , Hsu Fang-Chi , Ng Maggie C-Y , Langefeld Carl D , Carr J Jeffrey , Freedman Barry I , Bowden Donald W
Published: June 2013

Background

Patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) are at elevated risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) events and mortality. Recent studies have assessed the impact of genetic variants affecting high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) concentrations on CVD risk in the general population. This study examined the utility of HDL-associated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for CVD risk prediction in European Americans with T2D enrolled in the Diabetes Heart Study (DHS).

Methods

Genetic risk scores (GRS) of HDL-associated SNPs were constructed and evaluated for potential associations with mortality and with coronary artery calcified atherosclerotic plaque (CAC), a measure of subclinical CVD strongly associated with CVD events and mortality. Two sets of SNPs were used to construct GRS; while all SNPs were selected primarily for their impacts on HDL, one set of SNPs had pleiotropic effects on other lipid parameters, while the other set lacked effects on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) or triglyceride concentrations.

Results

The GRS were specifically associated with HDL concentrations (4.90 × 10-7 < p < 0.02) in models adjusted for age, sex, and body mass index (BMI), but were not associated with LDL or triglycerides. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis suggested the HDL-associated GRS had no impact on risk of CVD-mortality (0.48 < p < 0.99) in models adjusted for other known CVD risk factors. However, associations between several of the GRS and CAC were observed (3.85 × 10-4 < p < 0.03) in models adjusted for other known CVD risk factors.

Conclusions

The GRS analyzed in this study provide a tool for assessment of HDL-associated SNPs and their impact on CVD risk in T2D. The observed associations between several of the GRS and CAC suggest a potential role for HDL-associated SNPs on subclinical CVD risk in patients with T2D.
Role of SIRT3 in the regulation of redox balance during oral carcinogenesis
Authors: Chen I-Chieh , Chiang Wei-Fan , Liu Shyun-Yeu , Chen Pei-Fen , Chiang Hung-Che
Published: June 2013

Background

Sirtuins (SIRT1-7) are a family of NAD-dependent deacetylases, which play an important role in regulating cancer tumorigenesis; however, their role in oral cancer has been controversial. SIRT3 is localized in the mitochondria, where it deacetylates and activates several enzymes involved in cellular redox balance and defense against oxidative damage.

Results

We found that compared with normal human oral keratinocytes (HOK), SIRT3 is highly expressed in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cell lines, but the enzymatic deacetylation is significantly reduced. We also sequenced the entire coding region of SIRT3 and found the same mutation in 2 different OSCC cell lines. This point mutation is located in close proximity to the active site of deacetylase in the SIRT3 protein, and reduces the overall enzymatic efficiency of deacetylation. Furthermore, up-regulation of SIRT3 inhibited the cell growth of OSCCs and decreased the levels of basal reactive oxygen species (ROS) in both OSCC lines. To verify that the SIRT3 sequence variation was associated with oral carcinogenesis, we sequenced the SIRT3 gene from 21 OSCC patients, and 5 of the 21 patients (23.8%) carried the heterozygous missense mutation, p.Val208Ile. The heterozygous missense mutation in these patients was present in gremlin DNA isolated from both normal and tumor tissues.

Conclusions

Our findings provide a valuable insight into the potential role of SIRT3 in the development of oral squamous cell carcinoma, by showing that a non-synonymous point mutation in SIRT3 contributes to reduced catalytic activity of the protein and affects redox balance in OSCCs.
Normal sonographic anatomy of the abdomen of coatis (Nasua nasua Linnaeus 1766)
Authors: Ribeiro Rejane G , Costa Ana Paula A , Bragato Nathália , Fonseca Angela M , Duque Juan CM , Prado Tales D , Silva Andrea CR , Borges Naida C
Published: June 2013

Background

The use of ultrasound in veterinary medicine is widespread as a diagnostic supplement in the clinical routine of small animals, but there are few reports in wild animals. The objective of this study was to describe the anatomy, topography and abdominal sonographic features of coatis.

Results

The urinary bladder wall measured 0.11 ± 0.03 cm. The symmetrical kidneys were in the left and right cranial quadrant of the abdomen and the cortical, medullary and renal pelvis regions were recognized and in all sections. The medullary rim sign was visualized in the left kidney of two coatis. The liver had homogeneous texture and was in the cranial abdomen under the rib cage. The gallbladder, rounded and filled with anechoic content was visualized in all coatis, to the right of the midline. The spleen was identified in the left cranial abdomen following the greater curvature of the stomach. The parenchyma was homogeneous and hyperechogenic compared to the liver and kidney cortex. The stomach was in the cranial abdomen, limited cranially by the liver and caudo-laterally by the spleen. The left adrenal glands of five coatis were seen in the cranial pole of the left kidney showing hypoechogenic parenchyma without distinction of cortex and medulla. The pancreas was visualized in only two coatis. The left ovary (0.92 cm x 0.56 cm) was visualized on a single coati in the caudal pole of the kidney. The uterus, right adrenal, right ovary and intestines were not visualized.

Conclusions

Ultrasound examination of the abdomen of coatis may be accomplished by following the recommendations for dogs and cats. It is possible to evaluate the anatomical and topographical relationships of the abdominal organs together with the knowledge of the peculiarities of parenchymal echogenicity and echotexture of the viscera.
Structures in solid state and solution of dimethoxy curcuminoids: regioselective bromination and chlorination
Authors: Galer Petra , Golobič Amalija , Koller Jože , Košmrlj Berta , Šket Boris
Published: June 2013

Background

Several papers described the structure of curcumin and some other derivatives in solid and in solution. In the crystal structure of curcumin, the enol H atom is located symmetrically between both oxygen atoms of the enolone fragment with an O···O distance of 2.455 Å, which is characteristic for symmetrical H-bonds. In the solution, the geometry of the enolone fragment is attributed to the inherent disorder of the local environment, which solvates one of the basic sites better than the other, stabilizing one tautomer over the other. In this paper, how the position of methoxy groups in dimethoxy curcuminoids influence the conformation of molecules and how the halogen atoms change it when they are bonded at α-position in keto-enol part of molecules is described.

Results

Six isomers of dimethoxy curcuminoids were prepared. Conformations in solid state, which were determined by X-ray single crystallography and1H MAS and13C CPMAS NMR measurements, depend on the position of methoxy groups in curcuminoid molecules. In solution, a fast equilibrium between both keto-enol forms exists. A theoretical calculation finding shows that the position of methoxy groups changes the energy of HOMO and LUMO. An efficient protocol for the highly regioselective bromination and chlorination leading to α-halogenated product has been developed. All α-halogenated compounds are present mainly incisketo-enol form.

Conclusions

The structures in solid state of dimethoxy curcuminoids depend on the position of methoxy groups. The NMR data of crystalline solid samples of 3,4-diOCH3derivative, XRD measurements and X-ray structures lead us to the conclusion that polymorphism exists in solids. The same conclusion can be done for 3,5-diOCH3derivative. In solution, dimethoxy curcuminoids are present in the forms that can be described as the coexistence of two equivalent tautomers being in fast equilibrium. The position of methoxy groups has a small influence on the enolic hydrogen bond. Theoretical calculations show that the energy gap between HOMO and LUMO depend on the position of methoxy groups and are lower in solution. Chlorination and bromination on α-position of 1,3-diketone moiety do not change the preferential form being cis keto-enol as in parent compounds.
Implementing a court diversion and liaison scheme in a remand prison by systematic screening of new receptions: a 6 year participatory action research study of 20,084 consecutive male remands
Authors: McInerney Clare , Davoren Mary , Flynn Grainne , Mullins Diane , Fitzpatrick Mary , Caddow Martin , Caddow Fintan , Quigley Sean , Black Fergal , Kennedy Harry G , O’Neill Conor
Published: June 2013

Background

A mental health needs assessment in the Irish prison population confirmed findings from other jurisdictions showing high prevalence of severe mental illness, including psychosis amongst those newly committed. We implemented a participatory action research approach in order to provide an integrated mental health prison in-reach and court liaison service for this population.

Results

Following extensive consultation, a two stage screening process was developed which was supplemented by an inter-agency referral management system. During the six years 2006–2011, all 20,084 new remands to the main remand prison serving 58% of the national population were screened. Following the first stage screen, 3,195 received a comprehensive psychiatric assessment. Of these 561 (2.8%) had symptoms of psychosis – corresponding to the prior research finding – and 572 were diverted from the criminal justice system to mental health services (89 to a secure forensic hospital, 164 to community mental health hospitals and 319 to other community mental health services).

Conclusions

We have shown that it is possible to match research findings in clinical practice by systematic screening, to sustain this over a long period and to achieve consistent levels of diversion from the criminal justice system to appropriate mental health services. The sustained and consistent performance of the model used is likely to reflect the use of participatory action research both to find the most effective model and to achieve wide ownership and cooperation with the model of care.
The association and predictive value analysis of metabolic syndrome on diastolic heart failure in patients at high risk for coronary artery disease
Authors: Tang Zi-Hui , Zeng Fangfang , Li Zhongtao , Si Yibing , Zhou Linuo
Published: June 2013

Background

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effect and predictive value of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components on diastolic heart failure (DHF) in patients at high risk for coronary artery disease (CAD).

Materials and methods

We enrolled 261 patients with normal left ventricular ejection fraction (≥50%) who were scheduled to undergo coronary angiography for suspected myocardial ischemia. They were categorized into three groups (non-MetS, pre-MetS and MetS) based on the number of MetS criteria. Echocardiography was used to assess left ventricular (LV) diastolic function. The association between MetS and DHF was assessed by multivariate logistic regression (MLR) analysis (non-DHF patients as reference group) after controlling for confounders. The predictive performance of the MetS severity score (MSS) was evaluated using the area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC).

Results

A tendency toward increased DHF prevalence with increasing MSS was found (p < 0.001). MLR analysis showed that in patients with an MSS of 1, the odds ratio (OR) of DHF was 1.60 (95% confidence interval-CI, 1.19–2.16; p = 0.02) compared to non-DHF patients; in patients with MSS ≥4, the OR was 6.61 (95% CI, 4.90–8.90; p < 0.001) compared to non-DHF patients. MSSs strongly predicted DHF (AUC = 0.73, 95% CI, 0.66–0.78, p < 0.001). MLR with MetS components as binary variables showed that blood pressure (BP) and triglycerides (TGs) were significantly associated with DHF (P = 0.001 and 0.043, respectively).

Conclusion

Our findings signify that MetS and its components of BP or TG were associated with DHF in high-risk CAD patients. DHF prevalence tends to increase with increasing MSS that has a high value in predicting DHF in high-risk CAD patients.
Rice genes involved in phytosiderophore biosynthesis are synchronously regulated during the early stages of iron deficiency in roots
Authors: Itai Reiko Nakanishi , Ogo Yuko , Kobayashi Takanori , Nakanishi Hiromi , Nishizawa Naoko K
Published: June 2013

Background

The rice transcription factors IDEF1, IDEF2, and OsIRO2 have been identified as key regulators of the genes that control iron (Fe) uptake, including the biosynthesis of mugineic acid-family phytosiderophores (MAs). To clarify the onset of Fe deficiency, changes in gene expression were examined by microarray analysis using rice roots at 3, 6, 9, 12, 24, and 36 h after the onset of Fe-deficiency treatment.

Results

More than 1000 genes were found to be upregulated over a time course of 36 h. Expression of MAs-biosynthetic genes, OsIRO2, and the Fe3+–MAs complex transporter OsYSL15 was upregulated at the 24 h and 36 h time points. Moreover, these genes showed very similar patterns of expression changes, but their expression patterns were completely different from those of a metallothionein gene (OsIDS1) and the Fe2+-transporter genes OsIRT1 and OsIRT2. OsIDS1 expression was upregulated by the 6 h time point. The early induction of OsIDS1 expression was distinct from the other Fe-deficiency-inducible genes investigated and suggested a functional relationship with heavy-metal homeostasis during the early stages of Fe deficiency.

Conclusions

We showed that many genes related to MAs biosynthesis and transports were regulated by a distinct mechanism in roots. Furthermore, differences in expression changes and timing in response to Fe deficiency implied that different combinations of gene regulation mechanisms control the initial responses to Fe deficiency.
Osteonecrosis of the Jaw and Oral Health–Related Quality of Life After Adjuvant Zoledronic Acid: An Adjuvant Zoledronic Acid to Reduce Recurrence Trial Subprotocol (BIG01/04)
Authors: Rathbone Emma J. , Brown Janet E. , Marshall Helen C. , Collinson Michelle , Liversedge Victoria , Murden Geraldine A. , Cameron David , Bell Richard , Spensley Saiqa , Agrawal Rajiv , Jyothirmayi Rema , Chakraborti Prabir , Yuille Frances , Coleman Robert E.
Published: June 2013

Purpose

In patients with early breast cancer, adjuvant zoledronic acid (zoledronate) may reduce recurrence and improve survival. However, zoledronate is associated with the occasional development of osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). We report on the frequency of ONJ and investigate oral health–related quality of life (Oral-QoL) in a large randomized trial (Adjuvant Zoledronic Acid to Reduce Recurrence [AZURE]).

Patients and Methods

Three thousand three hundred sixty women with stage II or III breast cancer were randomly assigned to receive standard adjuvant systemic therapy alone or with zoledronate administered at a dose of 4 mg for 19 doses over 5 years. All potential occurrences of ONJ were reported as serious adverse events and centrally reviewed. Additionally, we invited 486 study participants to complete the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14) to assess Oral-QoL around the time the patients completed 5 years on study. Multivariable linear regression was used to calculate mean scores and 95% CIs in addition to identifying independent prognostic factors.

Results

With a median follow-up time of 73.9 months (interquartile range, 60.7 to 84.2 months), 33 possible cases of ONJ were reported, all in the zoledronate-treated patients. Twenty-six cases were confirmed as being consistent with a diagnosis of ONJ, representing a cumulative incidence of 2.1% (95% CI, 0.9% to 3.3%) in the zoledronate arm. Three hundred sixty-two patients (74%) returned the OHIP-14 questionnaire. Neither the prevalence nor severity of impacts on Oral-QoL differed significantly between zoledronate patients and control patients.

Conclusion

Adjuvant zoledronate used in the intensive schedule studied in the AZURE trial is associated with a low incidence of ONJ but does not seem to adversely affect Oral-QoL.
Yeast Upf1 CH domain interacts with Rps26 of the 40S ribosomal subunit
Authors: Min Ei Ei , Roy Bijoyita , Amrani Nadia , He Feng , Jacobson Allan
Published: June 2013

The central nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) regulator, Upf1, selectively targets nonsense-containing mRNAs for rapid degradation. In yeast, Upf1 preferentially associates with mRNAs that are NMD substrates, but the mechanism of its selective retention on these mRNAs has yet to be elucidated. Previously, we demonstrated that Upf1 associates with 40S ribosomal subunits. Here, we define more precisely the nature of this association using conventional and affinity-based purification of ribosomal subunits, and a two-hybrid screen to identify Upf1-interacting ribosomal proteins. Upf1 coimmunoprecipitates specifically with epitope-tagged 40S ribosomal subunits, and Upf1 association with high-salt washed or puromycin-released 40S subunits was found to occur without simultaneous eRF1, eRF3, Upf2, or Upf3 association. Two-hybrid analyses and in vitro binding assays identified a specific interaction between Upf1 and Rps26. Using mutations in domains ofUPF1known to be crucial for its function, we found that Upf1:40S association is modulated by ATP, and Upf1:Rps26 interaction is dependent on the N-terminal Upf1 CH domain. The specific association of Upf1 with the 40S subunit is consistent with the notion that this RNA helicase not only triggers rapid decay of nonsense-containing mRNAs, but may also have an important role in dissociation of the premature termination complex.
Analytical Representation Of ZED-2 Reactor Geometry by Means of The R-Function Method
Authors: Altiparmakov D.
Published: June 2013

The R-function method is applied to model the geometry of the critical facility ZED-2 as an illustrative example. Each material region is represented by a real, continuous and differentiable function of spatial coordinates that is referred to as the domain function. Instead of using particular functions for individual elements, a single function is constructed to represent all spatial domains that contain the same material, for instance all fuel pins, etc. Owing to continuity and differentiability, the domain functions can be used to construct a basis for approximate solution of the related boundary-value problems. A study of the approximation ability of the domain functions is carried out using the two-group spatial neutron flux distribution in the ZED-2 facility as a model problem. The least squares method is used to determine the unknown coefficients by minimizing the discrepancy between the reference MCNP solution and a power series of domain functions. The results show that a modest number of terms in the series is able to produce a good approximation of the neutron flux distribution specified on a mesh grid of 500 x 500 points.
Exemplary Centers and Musical Elsewheres: On Authenticity and Autonomy in Indonesian Indie Music
Authors: Luvaas Brent
Published: June 2013

Otentitas dan otonomi adalah dua kepentingan yang mendasar bagi musisi indie di seluruh dunia. Artikel ini membahas bagaimana pengaruh dua kepentingan tersebut terhadap sound dan style musik indie di Indonesia, sebuah tempat yang berjarak ribuan mil dari tempat asal musik indie. Artikel ini menguji upaya musisi indie Indonesia untuk menunjukkan otentitas dan otonomi dengan pendekatan satu dari dua strategi: (1) menunjukkan kontinuitas selarah dan estetis antara gerakan indie asing yang dianggap “otentik,” dan beberapa keragaman lokal mereka, dan (2) mendiversikasi secara radikal pengaruh-pengaruh genre supaya membuatnya mustahil dalam menempatkan sebuah band pada kategori manapun selain “indie.”
Elevating the Underground: Claiming a Space for Indie Music among Bali’s Many Soundworlds
Authors: Moore Rebekah E.
Published: June 2013

Di Denpasar, Bali, penduduk yang memiliki latar belakang etnis, bahasa, agama, pekerjaan, dan preferensi musik yang berbeda, dipaksa untuk tinggal berdekatan dalam suatu area oleh prospek pekerjaan mereka. Sejalan dengan itu, lingkungan perkotaan mendorong “soundworld” yang berbeda untuk berbagi ruang geografis yang padat penduduknya. Artikel ini akan menyelidiki musik indie sebagai intersubjektivitas sonic-sosial yang unik (“soundworld”). Disandingkan dengan musik tradisional, soundworld indie mengungkapkan disonansi dan kongruensi dalam praktek dan nilai musik di Bali. Keterlibatan musik indie ini berfungsi sebagai tindakan utama untuk menyatukan sekelompok individu yang hubungan social mereka terputus, untuk menciptakan ruang yang elektif, lokal, dan berkelanjutan.
“Dance to Your Roots”: Genre Fusions in the Music of Indonesia’s Krakatau
Authors: Harnish David , Wallach Jeremy
Published: June 2013

Artikel ini, berdasarkan wawancara dan interaksi selama 15 tahun dengan anggota Group Band Krakatau—suatu fusi group band jazz/etnik yang unik di Jawa Barat, Indonesia—meneliti karir dan pengembangan musik mereka. Kami menyoroti secara khusus pernyataan-pernyataan tentang falsafah musik dan pendekatan mereka dari pemimpinnya, Dwiki Dharmawan dan pemain bas Pra Budidharma, salah seorang pendiri group band itu. Suatu analisa dari dua buah komposisi lagu instrumental Krakatau menunjukkan bahwa group band itu berakar dari komposisi dan improvisasi jazz elektrik dengan suatu komitmen mengetrapkan instrumentasi, timbre dan pagelaran tradisional Sunda.
Musical Genre and Hybridity in Indonesia: Simponi Kecapi and Campur Sari
Authors: Sutton R. Anderson
Published: June 2013

Artikel ini membahas proses dan hasil hibriditas dalam musik dan hubungannya dengan pembentukan genre musik di Indonesia masa postkolonial. Pembahasan awal mengenai teori hibriditas dipakai sebagai kerangka untuk fokus pada dua genre hibrida yang memiliki perbedaan besar dalam hal keadaan penciptaan, sasaran pendengar, keberadaannya di media, dan tingkat keluwesannya. Yang pertama adalah “simponi kecapi” dari Sulawesi Selatan, sebuah kesenian rekayasa yang memakai kombinasi berbagai alat khas daerah (kecapi, suling, gendang) dengan inspirasi dari orkes barat; yang kedua adalah “campur sari” dari Jawa Tengah, sebuah genre yang lebih lentur dan lebih laku di pasaran, yang menggabungkan alat gamelan dengan elektone (keyboard synthesizer) dan gitar listrik.