bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of Saiga Horn Using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Mikulíková Kateřina , Romanov Oleg , Miksik Ivan , Eckhardt Adam , Pataridis Statis , Sedláková Pavla
Published: May 2012

The saiga horns have been investigated the using of modern analytic methods. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with mass-spectrometric (MS and MS/MS) detection and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) were used. It could be concluded that basic proteins of the saiga horns are keratins and collagen. The basic representation protein in all samples is keratin type I microfibrillar (from sheep), keratin type II microfibrillar (from sheep), collagen type I (α1) (from bovine) and collagen type I (α2) (from bovine). Free amino acids we determined in all samples are nontreated by enzyme.
Freezing of Oocytes and Its Effect on the Displacement of the Meiotic Spindle: Short Communication
Authors: Konc János , Kanyo Katalin , Kriston Rita , Zeke József , Cseh Sándor
Published: May 2012

Our investigations focused on spindle dynamics/displacement in frozen-thawed human oocytes. In each oocyte, prior to freezing and after thawing and culturing, the presence/location of the spindle was determined with the Polscope technique. A total of 259 oocytes have been thawed with a survival rate of 81.1%. From the 210 survived oocytes, 165 were fertilized (78.6%) and 89.1% of them cleaved. A total of 143 embryos were transferred into 63 patients resulting in 11 clinical pregnancies (17.5%), 7 of which resulted in live birth of 8 babies (1 twin pregnancy). We were able to detect the spindle in 221 of 259 oocytes (85.3%). After thawing and culturing the oocytes, we were able to visualize the spindle in 177 of 210 oocytes (84.3%). In 83 of these 177 oocytes, the spindle was observed to be in the same location as it was before cryopreservation (46.9%). However, in 94 of these 177 oocytes (53.1%), the spindle reformed in a different position/location relative to the polar body. Our results show that after thawing and culture in half of the spindle-positive oocytes the spindle was detected in a new location, indicating that the spindle and the polar body move relative to each other.
Interannual Variation in Root Production in Grasslands Affected by Artificially Modified Amount of Rainfall
Authors: Fiala Karel , Tůma Ivan , Holub Petr
Published: May 2012

The effect of different amounts of rainfall on the below-ground plant biomass was studied in three grassland ecosystems. Responses of the lowland (dryFestucagrassland), highland (wetCirsiumgrassland), and mountain (Nardusgrassland) grasslands were studied during five years (2006–2010). A field experiment based on rainout shelters and gravity irrigation simulated three climate scenarios: rainfall reduced by 50% (dry), rainfall increased by 50% (wet), and the natural rainfall of the current growing season (ambient). The interannual variation in root increment and total below-ground biomass reflected the experimentally manipulated amount of precipitation and also the amount of current rainfall of individual years. The effect of year on these below-ground parameters was found significant in all studied grasslands. In comparison with dryFestucagrassland, better adapted to drought, submontane wetCirsiumgrassland was more sensitive to the different water inputs forming rather lower amount of below-ground plant matter at reduced precipitation.
Implementing Best Practices and Validation of Cryopreservation Techniques for Microorganisms
Authors: Smith David , Ryan Matthew
Published: May 2012

Authentic, well preserved living organisms are basic elements for research in the life sciences and biotechnology. They are grown and utilized in laboratories around the world and are key to many research programmes, industrial processes and training courses. They are vouchers for publications and must be available for confirmation of results, further study or reinvestigation when new technologies become available. These biological resources must be maintained without change in biological resource collections. In order to achieve best practice in the maintenance and provision of biological materials for industry, research and education the appropriate standards must be followed. Cryopreservation is often the best preservation method available to achieve these aims, allowing long term, stable storage of important microorganisms. To promulgate best practice the Organisation for Economic Development and Co-operation (OECD published the best practice guidelines for BRCs. The OECD best practice consolidated the efforts of the UK National Culture Collections, the European Common Access to Biological Resources and Information (CABRI) project consortium and the World Federation for Culture Collections. The paper discusses quality management options and reviews cryopreservation of fungi, describing how the reproducibility and quality of the technique is maintained in order to retain the full potential of fungi.
Quantification of Sunscreen Ethylhexyl Triazone in Topical Skin-Care Products by Normal-Phase TLC/Densitometry
Authors: Sobanska Anna W. , Pyzowski Jaroslaw
Published: May 2012

Ethylhexyl triazone (ET) was separated from other sunscreens such as avobenzone, octocrylene, octyl methoxycinnamate, and diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate and from parabens by normal-phase HPTLC on silica gel 60 as stationary phase. Two mobile phases were particularly effective: (A) cyclohexane-diethyl ether 1 : 1 (v/v) and (B) cyclohexane-diethyl ether-acetone 15 : 1 : 2 (v/v/v) since apart from ET analysis they facilitated separation and quantification of other sunscreens present in the formulations. Densitometric scanning was performed at 300 nm. Calibration curves for ET were nonlinear (second-degree polynomials), withR> 0.998. For both mobile phases limits of detection (LOD) were 0.03 and limits of quantification (LOQ) 0.1 μg spot−1. Both methods were validated.
Effect of NPK Fertilizer on Chemical Composition of Pumpkin (Cucurbita pepoLinn.) Seeds
Authors: Oloyede F. M. , Obisesan I. O. , Agbaje G. O. , Obuotor E. M.
Published: May 2012

An investigation of the proximate composition and antioxidant profile of pumpkin seeds obtained from different levels of NPK 15 : 15 : 15 compound fertilizer application at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria was carried out. Pumpkin seeds were grown in 2010 for two cropping seasons (May to August and August to November), and the following fertilizer rates were applied: 0, 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 kg/ha. Standard analytical methods were used to determine protein, crude fibre, ash, fat, carbohydrate, antioxidant activities, phenol, flavonoid, proanthocyanidin, and anthocyanin. The highest concentrations of the proximate and antioxidants analysed were found from the seeds of control and those treated with lower NPK rates. The mean protein, ash, crude fibre, and carbohydrate values of pumpkin seeds at zero to 100 kg NPK/ha were 27%, 1.56%, 0.56%, and 11.7% respectively. At these same levels of fertilizer, pumpkin seed oil yield was 59%. Antioxidant activities ranged from 89.9 to 90.4% while total phenol was 47 mg/100 g. Except for carbohydrate, the % concentration of nutrients and antioxidants in pumpkin seeds was significantly (P=0.05) depressed with fertilizer rates above 100 g/ha.
Occurrence of the Foramen of Vesalius and Its Morphometry Relevant to Clinical Consideration
Authors: Chaisuksunt Vipavadee , Kwathai Lanaprai , Namonta Kritsana , Rungruang Thanaporn , Apinhasmit Wandee , Chompoopong Supin
Published: May 2012

All 377 dry skulls were examined for the occurrence and morphometry of the foramen of Vesalius (FV) both in the middle cranial fossa and at the extracranial view of the skull base. There were 25.9% and 10.9% of FV found at the extracranial view of the skull base and in the middle cranial fossa, respectively. Total patent FV were 16.1% (11.9% unilaterally and 4.2% bilaterally). Most FV were found in male and on the left side. Comparatively, FV at the extracranial view of the skull base had a larger maximum diameter. The distance between FV and the foramen ovale (FO) was as short as2.05±1.09 mm measured at the extracranial view of the skull base. In conclusion, although the existence of FV is inconstant, its occurrence could not be negligible. The proximity of FV to FO should remind neurosurgeons to be cautious when performing the surgical approach through FO.
Viral Infection in Renal Transplant Recipients
Authors: Cukuranovic Jovana , Ugrenovic Sladjana , Jovanovic Ivan , Visnjic Milan , Stefanovic Vladisav
Published: May 2012

Viruses are among the most common causes of opportunistic infection after transplantation. The risk for viral infection is a function of the specific virus encountered, the intensity of immune suppression used to prevent graft rejection, and other host factors governing susceptibility. Although cytomegalovirus is the most common opportunistic pathogen seen in transplant recipients, numerous other viruses have also affected outcomes. In some cases, preventive measures such as pretransplant screening, prophylactic antiviral therapy, or posttransplant viral monitoring may limit the impact of these infections. Recent advances in laboratory monitoring and antiviral therapy have improved outcomes. Studies of viral latency, reactivation, and the cellular effects of viral infection will provide clues for future strategies in prevention and treatment of viral infections. This paper will summarize the major viral infections seen following transplant and discuss strategies for prevention and management of these potential pathogens.
New Insights in the Sugarcane Transcriptome Responding to Drought Stress as Revealed by Supersage
Authors: Kido Éderson Akio , Ferreira Neto José Ribamar Costa , Silva Roberta Lane de Oliveira , Pandolfi Valesca , Guimarães Ana Carolina Ribeiro , Veiga Daniela Truffi , Chabregas Sabrina Moutinho , Crovella Sérgio , Benko-Iseppon Ana Maria
Published: May 2012

In the scope of the present work, four SuperSAGE libraries have been generated, using bulked root tissues from four drought-tolerant accessions as compared with four bulked sensitive genotypes, aiming to generate a panel of differentially expressed stress-responsive genes. Both groups were submitted to 24 hours of water deficit stress. The SuperSAGE libraries produced 8,787,315 tags (26 bp) that, after exclusion of singlets, allowed the identification of 205,975 unitags. Most relevant BlastN matches comprised 567,420 tags, regarding 75,404 unitags with 164,860 different ESTs. To optimize the annotation efficiency, the Gene Ontology (GO) categorization was carried out for 186,191 ESTs (BlastN against Uniprot-SwissProt), permitting the categorization of 118,208 ESTs (63.5%). In an attempt to elect a group of the best tags to be validated by RTqPCR, the GO categorization of the tag-related ESTs allowed thein silicoidentification of 213 upregulated unitags responding basically to abiotic stresses, from which 145 presented no hits after BlastN analysis, probably concerning new genes still uncovered in previous studies. The present report analyzes the sugarcane transcriptome under drought stress, using a combination of high-throughput transcriptome profiling by SuperSAGE with the Solexa sequencing technology, allowing the identification of potential target genes during the stress response.
Serotonin Receptors in Hippocampus
Authors: Berumen Laura Cristina , Rodríguez Angelina , Miledi Ricardo , García-Alcocer Guadalupe
Published: May 2012

Serotonin is an ancient molecular signal and a recognized neurotransmitter brainwide distributed with particular presence in hippocampus. Almost all serotonin receptor subtypes are expressed in hippocampus, which implicates an intricate modulating system, considering that they can be localized as autosynaptic, presynaptic, and postsynaptic receptors, even colocalized within the same cell and being target of homo- and heterodimerization. Neurons and glia, including immune cells, integrate a functional network that uses several serotonin receptors to regulate their roles in this particular part of the limbic system.
Age of First Suicide Attempt in Men and Women: An Admixture Analysis
Authors: Blasco-Fontecilla Hilario , Alegria Analucia A. , Delgado-Gomez David , Legido-Gil Teresa , Saiz-Ruiz Jeronimo , Oquendo Maria A. , Baca-Garcia Enrique
Published: May 2012

Objectives. To define different subgroups of suicide attempters according to age at onset of suicide attempts.Methods. Participants were 229 suicide attempters (147 females; 82 males) admitted to a general hospital in Madrid, Spain. We used admixture analysis to determine the best-fitting model for the age at onset of suicide attempts separated by sex.Results. The best fitted model for the age at onset of suicide attempts was a mixture of two gaussian distributions. Females showed an earlier age at onset of suicide attempts in both Gaussian distributions (mean ± S.D.) (26.98 ± 5.69 and 47.98 ± 14.13) than males (32.77 ± 8.11 and 61.31 ± 14.61). Early-onset female attempters were more likely to show borderline personality disorder than late-onset female attempters (OR = 11.11; 95% CI = 2.43–50.0).Conclusions. Age at onset of suicide attempts characterizes different subpopulations of suicide attempters.
Effect of Aspirin on Cell Growth of Human MG-63 Osteosarcoma Line
Authors: De Luna-Bertos E. , Ramos-Torrecillas J. , García-Martínez O. , Díaz-Rodríguez L. , Ruiz C.
Published: May 2012

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used in bone tissue repair treatment for their pharmacological action. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of aspirin, on osteoblast growth, using MG63 cell line as osteoblast model. MTT spectrophotometry results showed that 20, 100, and 1000 μM aspirin doses have an inhibitory effect on growth. Cell cycle analysis revealed that aspirin doses of 100 and 1000 μM arrest the cell cycle in phase GO/G1. Parallel apoptosis/necrosis studies showed no changes in comparison to control cells after treatment with 1 or 10 μM aspirin but a significantly increased percentage of cells in apoptosis at doses of 20, 100, and 1000 μM. We highlight that treatment of osteoblast-like cells with 1000 μM aspirin increased not only the percentage of cells in apoptosis but also the percentage of necrotic cells, which was not observed in aspirin treatments at lower doses.
Leptin Regulates Proliferation and Apoptosis in Human Prostate
Authors: Leze Eduardo , Alves-Pereira Jorge Luiz , Colli Sicilia , Cavalcante Fernanda Silveira , José Sampaio Francisco , da Fonte Ramos Cristiane
Published: May 2012

This paper aimed to evaluate the leptin role on the cellular proliferation and the expression of fibroblast growth factor 2, aromatase enzyme, and apoptotic genes in the human prostate tissue.Methods. Fifteen samples of hyperplasic prostate tissue were divided in four symmetric parts maintained in RPMI medium supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum, 1 ng/mL of gentamicin, and added with 50 ng/mL leptin (L) or not (C). After 3 hours of incubation, gene expression was evaluated by real time RT-PCR. Cellular proliferation was evaluated by immunohistochemistry for PCNA.Results. The leptin treatment led to an increase cellular proliferation (C=21.8±0.5;L=64.8±0.9;P<0.0001) and in the expression of Bax (C=0.4±0.1;L=0.9±0.2;P<0.05) while Bcl-2 (C=19.9±5.6;L=5.6±1.8;P<0.05), Bcl-x (C=0.2±0.06;L=0.07±0.02;P<0.05), and aromatase expressions (C=1.9±0.6;L=0.4±0.1;P<0.04) were significantly reduced.Conclusion. Leptin has an important role in maintaining the physiological growth of the prostate since it stimulates both cellular proliferation and apoptosis, with the decrement in the aromatase gene expression.
Biomarker Identification for Prostate Cancer and Lymph Node Metastasis from Microarray Data and Protein Interaction Network Using Gene Prioritization Method
Authors: Arias Carlos Roberto , Yeh Hsiang-Yuan , Soo Von-Wun
Published: May 2012

Finding a genetic disease-related gene is not a trivial task. Therefore, computational methods are needed to present clues to the biomedical community to explore genes that are more likely to be related to a specific disease as biomarker. We present biomarker identification problem using gene prioritization method called gene prioritization from microarray data based on shortest paths, extended with structural and biological properties and edge flux using voting scheme (GP-MIDAS-VXEF). The method is based on finding relevant interactions on protein interaction networks, then scoring the genes using shortest paths and topological analysis, integrating the results using a voting scheme and a biological boosting. We applied two experiments, one is prostate primary and normal samples and the other is prostate primary tumor with and without lymph nodes metastasis. We used 137 truly prostate cancer genes as benchmark. In the first experiment, GP-MIDAS-VXEF outperforms all the other state-of-the-art methods in the benchmark by retrieving the truest related genes from the candidate set in the top 50 scores found. We applied the same technique to infer the significant biomarkers in prostate cancer with lymph nodes metastasis which is not established well.
Characterization of Mononucleated Human Peripheral Blood Cells
Authors: Ab Kadir Ruzanna , Zainal Ariffin Shahrul Hisham , Megat Abdul Wahab Rohaya , Kermani Shabnam , Senafi Sahidan
Published: May 2012

Unspecialized cells that can renew themselves and give rise to multiple differentiated cell types are termed stem cells. The objective of this study was to characterize and investigate, through molecular and biochemical analyses, the stemness of cells derived from isolated mononucleated cells that originated from peripheral blood. The isolated mononucleated cells were separated according to their physical characteristics (adherent and suspension), after 4 to 7 days into a 14-day culturing period in complete medium. Our results revealed that adherent and suspension cells were positive for mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) and hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) markers, respectively. Differentiation of adherent cells into osteoblasts was associated with expression of theOPNgene and increasing ALP enzyme activity, while differentiation of suspension cells into osteoclasts was associated with expression of theTRAPgene and increasing TRAP enzyme activity. In conclusion, molecular and biochemical analyses showed that mononucleated cells consist of MSC (adherent) and HSC (suspension), and both cell types are able to differentiate into specialized cells from their respective lineage: osteoblast (MSC) and osteoclast (HSC).
Morphometric Analysis of Nonsclerosed Glomeruli Size and Connective Tissue Content during the Aging Process
Authors: Stojanović Vesna R. , Jovanović Ivan D. , Ugrenović Sladjana Z. , Vasović Ljiljana P. , Živković Vladimir S. , Jocić Miodrag V. , Kundalić Braca K. , Pavlović Miljana N.
Published: May 2012

Number of sclerotic glomeruli increases during the aging process. Consequently, majority of remained nonsclerosed glomeruli become hypertrophic and some of them sclerotic, too. The aim of this study was to quantify the size and connective tissue content of nonsclerosed glomeruli and to evaluate the percentage of hypertrophic ones in examined human cases during the aging. Material was right kidney's tissue of 30 cadavers obtained during routine autopsies. Cadavers were without previously diagnosed kidney disease, diabetes, hypertension, or any other systemic disease. Tissue specimens were routinely prepared for histological and morphometric analysis. Images of the histological slices were analyzed and captured under 400x magnification with digital camera. Further they were morphometrically and statistically analyzed with ImageJ and NCSS-PASS software. Multiple and linear regression of obtained morphometric parameters showed significant increase of glomerular connective tissue area and percentage. Cluster analysis showed the presence of two types of glomeruli. Second type was characterized with significantly larger size, connective tissue content, and significantly lower cellularity, in relation to the first type. Such glomeruli might be considered as hypertrophic. First type of glomeruli was predominant in younger cases, while second type of glomeruli was predominant in cases older than 55 years.
Effect of Atmospheric Pollutants on the Air Quality in Tunisia
Authors: Bouchlaghem Karim , Nsom Blaise
Published: May 2012

This paper presents the evolution of Saharan dust advection when the PM10 (particles with an aerodynamic diameter below 10 μm) concentration exceeds standard limits in different Tunisian sites. Meteorological and concentration data (from 2004 to 2010) obtained from several monitoring stations and in situ measurements were used to identify African dust change in seasonal occurrence, their source origin, and their impact on surface PM10 concentrations. We pointed out that the Saharan dust contribution caused frequently the surpassing of the maximum number of days in excess of EU standard limits as well as of the maximum yearly average in the Mediterranean Tunisian coasts. The maximum daily concentration reaches 439 μg/m3during the Saharan events. The decrease in particulate levels recorded at the end of each event is due to the injection of European air masses and rainfalls. Primary pollutants peaks were much higher in winter than in summer which can be explained on the basis of the lower ventilation and mixing.
Examining the Aftereffects of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans: A Qualitative Study of Faculty and Staff Perceptions
Authors: Burnham Joy J. , Hooper Lisa M.
Published: May 2012

Researchers have reported how Hurricane Katrina has affected teachers who work with Kindergarten to Grade 12 (K-12), yet little is known about how the natural disaster has affected other important K-12 faculty and staff (e.g., coaches, librarians, school counselors, and cafeteria workers). Missing from the literature is the impact that this natural disaster has had on these formal (school counselors) and informal (coaches, librarians) helpers of K-12 students. Using a focus group methodology, the authors examined the aftereffects of Hurricane Katrina on 12 school employees in New Orleans, Louisiana, 18 months after the hurricane. Informed by qualitative content analysis, three emergent themes were identified: emotion-focused aftereffects, positive coping, and worry and fear. The implications for future research and promoting hope in mental health counseling are discussed.
Accumulation of Aluminium and Physiological Status of Tree Foliage in the Vicinity of a Large Aluminium Smelter
Authors: Wannaz E. D. , Rodriguez J. H. , Wolfsberger T. , Carreras H. A. , Pignata M. L. , Fangmeier A. , Franzaring J.
Published: May 2012

A pollution gradient was observed in tree foliage sampled in the vicinity of a large aluminium production facility in Patagonia (Argentina). Leaves ofEucalyptus rostrata, and Populus hybridusand different needle ages ofPinusspec. were collected and concentrations of aluminium (Al) and sulphur (S) as well as physiological parameters (chlorophyll and lipid oxidation products) were analyzed. Al and S concentrations indicate a steep pollution gradient in the study showing a relationship with the physiological parameters in particular membrane lipid oxidation products. The present study confirms that aluminium smelting results in high Al and sulphur deposition in the study area, and therefore further studies should be carried out taking into account potentially adverse effects of these compounds on human and ecosystem health.
Alzheimer’s Disease and Risk of Hip Fracture: A Meta-Analysis Study
Authors: Zhao Yan , Shen Liang , Ji Hong-Fang
Published: May 2012

Background. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia in the elderly population. Growing evidence supports that AD patients are at high risk for hip fracture, but the issue remains questionable. The purpose of the present study is to perform a meta-analysis to explore the association between AD and risk of hip fracture. Considering that bone mineral density (BMD) acts as a strong predictor of bone fracture, we also studied the hip BMD in AD patients.Methods. We searched all publications in Medline, SciVerse Scopus, and Cochrane Library published up to January 2012 about the association between AD and hip fracture or hip BMD.Results. There are 9 studies included in the meta-analysis. The results indicate that AD patients are at higher risk for hip fracture (OR and 95% CI fixed: ES = 2.58, 95% CI = [2.03, 3.14]; dichotomous data: summary OR = 1.80, 95% CI = [1.54, 2.11]) than healthy controls. Further meta-analysis showed that AD patients have a lower hip BMD (summary SMD = −1.12, 95% CI = [−1.34, −0.90]) than healthy controls.Conclusions. It was found that in comparison with healthy controls AD patients are at higher risk for hip fracture and have lower hip BMD.
Preparation andIn VitroEvaluation of Tacrolimus-Loaded Ethosomes
Authors: Li Guiling , Fan Chao , Li Xinru , Fan Yating , Wang Xiaoning , Li Mei , Liu Yan
Published: May 2012

The main objective of the present work was to prepare and assess dermal delivery of tacrolimus-loaded ethosomes versus classic liposomes. Both delivery systems were characterized for particle size, polydispersity index, and entrapment efficiency (EE), by dynamic laser diffraction and ultrafiltration or dialysis methods, respectively. The results indicated that presence of ethanol in the formulations affected the particle size. In addition, ultrafiltration method was selected to determine EE due to relatively short period as compared with dialysis method. Ethosomes exhibited a significant higher EE and amount of drug in dermis in contrast to classic liposomes suggesting that ethosomes with higher entrapment capacity prompted more amount of tacrolimus to permeate through stratum corneum and reach the target of atopic dermatitis (AD). Physical stability was very well for tacrolimus-loaded ethosomes under storage condition (4°C). Our results demonstrated that the ethosomal system might be a promising candidate for dermal delivery of tacrolimus for AD.
Fabrication of a Porous Fiber Cladding Material Using Microsphere Templating for Improved Response Time with Fiber Optic Sensor Arrays
Authors: Henning Paul E. , Rigo M. Veronica , Geissinger Peter
Published: May 2012

A highly porous optical-fiber cladding was developed for evanescent-wave fiber sensors, which contains sensor molecules, maintains guiding conditions in the optical fiber, and is suitable for sensing in aqueous environments. To make the cladding material (a poly(ethylene) glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) polymer) highly porous, a microsphere templating strategy was employed. The resulting pore network increases transport of the target analyte to the sensor molecules located in the cladding, which improves the sensor response time. This was demonstrated using fluorescein-based pH sensor molecules, which were covalently attached to the cladding material. Scanning electron microscopy was used to examine the structure of the templated polymer and the large network of interconnected pores. Fluorescence measurements showed a tenfold improvement in the response time for the templated polymer and a reliable pH response over a pH range of five to nine with an estimated accuracy of 0.08 pH units.
Segmentation of the Breast Skin and Its Influence in the Simulation of the Breast Compression during an X-Ray Mammography
Authors: Solves Llorens J. A. , Rupérez M. J. , Monserrat C. , Feliu E. , García M. , Lloret M.
Published: May 2012

A novel method of skin segmentation is presented aimed to obtain as many pixels belonging to the real skin as possible. This method is validated by experts in radiology. In addition, a biomechanical model of the breast, which considers the skin segmented in this way, is constructed to study the influence of considering real skin in the simulation of the breast compression during an X-ray mammography. The reaction forces of the plates are obtained and compared with the reaction forces obtained using classical methods that model the skin as a 2D membranes that cover all the breast. The results of this work show that, in most of the cases, the method of skin segmentation is accurate and that real skin should be considered in the simulation of the breast compression during the X-ray mammographies.
Production of Gymnemic Acid Depends on Medium, Explants, PGRs, Color Lights, Temperature, Photoperiod, and Sucrose Sources in Batch Culture ofGymnema sylvestre
Authors: Ahmed A. Bakrudeen Ali , Rao A. S. , Rao M. V. , Taha Rosna Mat
Published: May 2012

Gymnema sylvestre(R.Br.) is an important diabetic medicinal plant which yields pharmaceutically active compounds called gymnemic acid (GA). The present study describes callus induction and the subsequent batch culture optimization and GA quantification determined by linearity, precision, accuracy, and recovery. Best callus induction of GA was noticed in MS medium combined with 2,4-D (1.5 mg/L) and KN (0.5 mg/L). Evaluation and isolation of GA from the calluses derived from different plant parts, namely, leaf, stem and petioles have been done in the present case for the first time. Factors such as light, temperature, sucrose, and photoperiod were studied to observe their effect on GA production. Temperature conditions completely inhibited GA production. Out of the different sucrose concentrations tested, the highest yield (35.4 mg/g d.w) was found at 5% sucrose followed by 12 h photoperiod (26.86 mg/g d.w). Maximum GA production (58.28 mg/g d.w) was observed in blue light. The results showed that physical and chemical factors greatly influence the production of GA in callus cultures ofG. sylvestre. The factors optimized forin vitroproduction of GA during the present study can successfully be employed for their large-scale production in bioreactors.
Comparison of Thunderstorm Simulations from WRF-NMM and WRF-ARW Models over East Indian Region
Authors: Litta A. J. , Mary Ididcula Sumam , Mohanty U. C. , Kiran Prasad S.
Published: May 2012

The thunderstorms are typical mesoscale systems dominated by intense convection. Mesoscale models are essential for the accurate prediction of such high-impact weather events. In the present study, an attempt has been made to compare the simulated results of three thunderstorm events using NMM and ARW model core of WRF system and validated the model results with observations. Both models performed well in capturing stability indices which are indicators of severe convective activity. Comparison of model-simulated radar reflectivity imageries with observations revealed that NMM model has simulated well the propagation of the squall line, while the squall line movement was slow in ARW. From the model-simulated spatial plots of cloud top temperature, we can see that NMM model has better captured the genesis, intensification, and propagation of thunder squall than ARW model. The statistical analysis of rainfall indicates the better performance of NMM than ARW. Comparison of model-simulated thunderstorm affected parameters with that of the observed showed that NMM has performed better than ARW in capturing the sharp rise in humidity and drop in temperature. This suggests that NMM model has the potential to provide unique and valuable information for severe thunderstorm forecasters over east Indian region.
Aerosol Pollution from Small Combustors in a Village
Authors: Zwozdziak A. , Samek L. , Sowka I. , Furman L. , Skrętowicz M.
Published: May 2012

Urban air pollution is widely recognized. Recently, there have been a few projects that examined air quality in rural areas (e.g., AUPHEP project in Austria, WOODUSE project in Denmark). Here we present the results within the International Cooperation Project RER/2/005 targeted at studying the effect of local combustion processes to air quality in the village of Brzezina in the countryside north-west of Wroclaw (south western Poland). We identified the potential emission sources and quantified their contributions. The ambient aerosol monitoring (PM10and elemental concentrations) was performed during 4 measurement cycles, in summer 2009, 2010 and in winter 2010, 2011. Some receptor modeling techniques, factor analysis-multiple linear regression analysis (FA-MLRA) and potential source localization function (PSLF), have been used. Different types of fuel burning along with domestic refuse resulted in an increased concentration of PM10particle mass, but also by an increased in various other compounds (As, Pb, Zn). Local combustion sources contributed up to 80% to PM10mass in winter. The effect of other sources was small, from 6 to 20%, dependently on the season. Both PM10and elemental concentrations in the rural settlement were comparable to concentrations at urban sites in summer and were much higher in winter, which can pose asignificant health risk to its inhabitants.
Abrogation of BRAFV600E-induced senescence by PI3K pathway activation contributes to melanomagenesis
Authors: Vredeveld Liesbeth C.W. , Possik Patricia A. , Smit Marjon A. , Meissl Katrin , Michaloglou Chrysiis , Horlings Hugo M. , Ajouaou Abderrahim , Kortman Pim C. , Dankort David , McMahon Martin , Mooi Wolter J. , Peeper Daniel S.
Published: May 2012

Human melanocytic nevi (moles) are benign lesions harboring activated oncogenes, including BRAF. Although this oncogene initially acts mitogenically, eventually, oncogene-induced senescence (OIS) ensues. Nevi can infrequently progress to melanomas, but the mechanistic relationship with OIS is unclear. We show here that PTEN depletion abrogates BRAFV600E-induced senescence in human fibroblasts and melanocytes. Correspondingly, in established murine BRAFV600E-driven nevi, acute shRNA-mediated depletion of PTEN prompted tumor progression. Furthermore, genetic analysis of laser-guided microdissected human contiguous nevus–melanoma specimens recurrently revealed identical mutations in BRAF or NRAS in adjacent benign and malignant melanocytes. The PI3K pathway was often activated through either decreased PTEN or increased AKT3 expression in melanomas relative to their adjacent nevi. Pharmacologic PI3K inhibition in melanoma cells suppressed proliferation and induced the senescence-associated tumor suppressor p15INK4B. This treatment also eliminated subpopulations resistant to targeted BRAFV600E inhibition. Our findings suggest that a significant proportion of melanomas arise from nevi. Furthermore, these results demonstrate that PI3K pathway activation serves as a rate-limiting event in this setting, acting at least in part by abrogating OIS. The reactivation of senescence features and elimination of cells refractory to BRAFV600E inhibition by PI3K inhibition warrants further investigation into the therapeutic potential of simultaneously targeting these pathways in melanoma.
Triplexator: Detecting nucleic acid triple helices in genomic and transcriptomic data
Authors: Buske Fabian A. , Bauer Denis C. , Mattick John S. , Bailey Timothy L.
Published: May 2012

Double-stranded DNA is able to form triple-helical structures by accommodating a third nucleotide strand in its major groove. This sequence-specific process offers a potent mechanism for targeting genomic loci of interest that is of great value for biotechnological and gene-therapeutic applications. It is likely that nature has leveraged this addressing system for gene regulation, because computational studies have uncovered an abundance of putative triplex target sites in various genomes, with enrichment particularly in gene promoters. However, to draw a more complete picture of the in vivo role of triplexes, not only the putative targets but also the sequences acting as the third strand and their capability to pair with the predicted target sites need to be studied. Here we present Triplexator, the first computational framework that integrates all aspects of triplex formation, and showcase its potential by discussing research examples for which the different aspects of triplex formation are important. We find that chromatin-associated RNAs have a significantly higher fraction of sequence features able to form triplexes than expected at random, suggesting their involvement in gene regulation. We furthermore identify hundreds of human genes that contain sequence features in their promoter predicted to be able to form a triplex with a target within the same promoter, suggesting the involvement of triplexes in feedback-based gene regulation. With focus on biotechnological applications, we screen mammalian genomes for high-affinity triplex target sites that can be used to target genomic loci specifically and find that triplex formation offers a resolution of ∼1300 nt.
Epithelial–mesenchymal transition and mesenchymal–epithelial transition are essential for the acquisition of stem cell properties in hTERT‐immortalised oral epithelial cells
Authors: Qiao Bin , Gopalan Vinod , Chen Zhifeng , Smith Robert Anthony , Tao Qian , Lam Alfred King‐yin
Published: May 2012

Background information

Evidence has shown that mesenchymal–epithelial transition (MET) and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) are linked to stem cell properties. We currently lack a model showing how the occurrence of MET and EMT in immortalised cells influences the maintenance of stem cell properties. Thus, we established a project aiming to investigate the roles of EMT and MET in the acquisition of stem cell properties in immortalised oral epithelial cells.

Results

In this study, a retroviral transfection vector (pLXSN–hTERT) was used to immortalise oral epithelial cells by insertion of the hTERT gene (hTERT+–oral mucosal epithelial cell line [OME]). The protein and RNA expression of EMT transcriptional factors (Snail, Slug and Twist), their downstream markers (E‐cadherin and N‐cadherin) and embryonic stem cell markers (OCT4, Nanog and Sox2) were studied by reverse transcription PCR and Western blots in these cells. Some EMT markers were detected at both mRNA and protein levels. Adipocytes and bone cells were noted in the multi‐differentiation assay, showing that the immortal cells underwent EMT. The differentiation assay for hTERT+–OME cells revealed the recovery of epithelial phenotypes, implicating the presence of MET. The stem cell properties were confirmed by the detection of appropriate markers. Altered expression of α‐tubulin and γ‐tubulin in both two‐dimensional‐cultured (without serum) and three‐dimensional‐cultured hTERT+–OME spheroids indicated the re‐programming of cytoskeleton proteins which is attributed to MET processes in hTERT+–OME cells.

Conclusions

EMT and MET are essential for hTERT‐immortalised cells to maintain their epithelial stem cell properties.
The effect of hypoxia on ventilation frequency in startled common soleSolea solea
Authors: Cannas M. , Domenici P. , Lefrançois C.
Published: May 2012

Ventilation frequency (FV) in motionless common soleSolea soleawas measured before and after a startling stimulus in normoxia and in hypoxia (15% air saturation). Startling reducedFVin normoxia (from mean ±s.e.41 ± 3·3 beats min−1to near zero,i.e. 2·0 ± 1·8 beats min−1) and in hypoxia (from mean ±s.e.80 ± 4·4 to 58·8 ± 12·9 beats min−1). It is suggested that the maintenance of highFVin hypoxia may increase the probability of detection by predators compared to normoxia.
Maximum sustainable speed, energetics and swimming kinematics of a tropical carangid fish, the green jack Caranx caballus
Authors: Dickson K. A. , Donley J. M. , Hansen M. W. , Peters J. A.
Published: May 2012

Maximum sustained swimming speeds, swimming energetics and swimming kinematics were measured in the green jack Caranx caballus (Teleostei: Carangidae) using a 41 l temperature‐controlled, Brett‐type swimming‐tunnel respirometer. In individual C. caballus [mean ±s.d. of 22·1 ± 2·2 cm fork length (LF), 190 ± 61 g, n = 11] at 27·2 ± 0·7° C, mean critical speed (Ucrit) was 102·5 ± 13·7 cm s−1 or 4·6 ± 0·9 LF s−1. The maximum speed that was maintained for a 30 min period while swimming steadily using the slow, oxidative locomotor muscle (Umax,c) was 99·4 ± 14·4 cm s−1 or 4·5 ± 0·9 LF s−1. Oxygen consumption rate (M in mg O2 min−1) increased with swimming speed and with fish mass, but mass‐specific M (mg O2 kg−1 h−1) as a function of relative speed (LF s−1) did not vary significantly with fish size. Mean standard metabolic rate (RS) was 170 ± 38 mg O2 kg−1 h−1, and the mean ratio of M at Umax,c to RS, an estimate of factorial aerobic scope, was 3·6 ± 1·0. The optimal speed (Uopt), at which the gross cost of transport was a minimum of 2·14 J kg−1 m−1, was 3·8 LF s−1. In a subset of the fish studied (19·7–22·7 cm LF, 106–164 g, n = 5), the swimming kinematic variables of tailbeat frequency, yaw and stride length all increased significantly with swimming speed but not fish size, whereas tailbeat amplitude varied significantly with speed, fish mass and LF. The mean propulsive wavelength was 86·7 ± 5·6 %LF or 73·7 ± 5·2 %LT. Mean ±s.d. yaw and tailbeat amplitude values, calculated from lateral displacement of each intervertebral joint during a complete tailbeat cycle in three C. caballus (19·7, 21·6 and 22·7 cm LF; 23·4, 25·3 and 26·4 cm LT), were 4·6 ± 0·1 and 17·1 ± 2·2 %LT, respectively. Overall, the sustained swimming performance, energetics, kinematics, lateral displacement and intervertebral bending angles measured in C. caballus were similar to those of other active ectothermic fishes that have been studied, and C. caballus was more similar to the chub mackerel Scomber japonicus than to the kawakawa tuna Euthynnus affinis.
Does spatial variation in egg thiamine and fatty‐acid concentration of Lake Michigan lake trout Salvelinus namaycush lead to differential early mortality syndrome and yolk oedema mortality in offspring?
Authors: Czesny S. J. , Rinchard J. , Lee B.‐J. , Dabrowski K. , Dettmers J. M. , Cao Y.
Published: May 2012

Individual variation in fatty‐acid and thiamine concentrations were determined in lake trout Salvelinus namaycush eggs collected at two spawning grounds in Lake Michigan. A suite of predictor variables, including spawning location, egg fatty‐acid and thiamine concentrations, were used to attempt to explain cause‐and‐effect in early life stage mortality among S. namaycush families. Lipid and fatty‐acid composition of S. namaycush eggs differed between spawning locations. Salvelinus namaycush offspring from south‐western Lake Michigan were affected by a high occurrence of yolk oedema, whereas a higher frequency of early mortality syndrome (EMS) was observed among offspring from the north‐western part of the lake. Random‐forest regressions revealed location as the most influential predictor of yolk oedema mortality, whereas thiamine level in eggs was the strongest predictor of EMS‐related mortality. Several polyunsaturated fatty acids were also found to be predictors of both mortalities. There is evidence of spatial variability in egg fatty‐acid concentration among S. namaycush in Lake Michigan that, together with diminished thiamine concentration, contribute to low survival of S. namaycush progeny.
Assessment of vegetation structure and human impacts in the protected area ofAlédjo (Togo)
Authors: Wala Kperkouma , Woegan Agbélessessi Y. , Borozi Wiyao , Dourma Marra , Atato Abalo , Batawila Komlan , Akpagana Koffi
Published: May 2012

Protected areas constitute strategy for biodiversity conservation. Unfortunately, these sanctuaries of biodiversity are submitted to a high human pressure inTogo. This study carried out in theAlédjo protected area, aimed to make an analysis of various forms of human footprints and their impact on its plant resources. Methodological approach was based on forest inventory completed by inquiries. Ninety‐four wooded species belonging to 35 families were counted. Floristic data analysis showed that seven species:Isoberlinia dokaCraib &Stapf,Daniellia oliveri(Rolfe)Hutch. &Dalz.,Berlinia grandiflora(Vahl)Hutch. &Dalz.,Pterocarpus erinaceusPoir.,Zanha golungensisHiern,Khaya senegalensis(Desv.)A.Juss.,Pentadesma butyraceaSabine was prominent. Five vegetation types were identified: riparian forests, dry forests, open forests, savanna woodlands, tree/shrub savannas with variable structural characteristics. The diversity indices in these plant communities are well significant and indicate a good distribution of species in the area. Several human activities such as fuel wood, fruits and medicinal plants gathering, carbonization, pasture were found within the protected area. Local authorities and associations are involved in the management of the protected area, but the participation of local populations needs to be improved.
Historical range and movements of the Elephants in Babile Elephant Sanctuary, Ethiopia
Authors: Demeke Yirmed , Renfree Marilyn B. , Short Roger V.
Published: May 2012

A study on historical range and movement patterns of the African savannah elephants (Loxodonta africana africana) in Ethiopia was made from December 2004 to November 2008. Babile Elephant Sanctuary is one of the strongholds of elephants in the country, where it now supports approximately 27% of the elephant population in Ethiopia. Elephant movement routes and ranges were identified based on interviews of local people and by tracking the animals in the field. Elephants of the Sanctuary were categorized into two distinctive groups or clans based on their movement patterns and their associations to each other. Three major valleys, namely Gobele, Erer and Dakata, were crossed by elephants. Elephants in the population had an estimated annual range of 3014 km2. Of this, 85.7% (2583 km2) was inside the Sanctuary and 14.3% (430 km2) outside but adjacent to the Sanctuary. Elephant use outside of the Sanctuary included three different areas: Upper Erer Valley (8 km2), Upper Gobele Valley (48 km2) and west of Gobele Valley (374 km2). The extent of range varied seasonally. During the wet season, elephant range was restricted to Erer Valley and its tributaries (1266 km2 and a density of approximately 0.25 animal km−2), or 42% smaller than the dry season range (1417 km2, 0.23 elephant km−2). Range use was smallest (332 km2) in October to November and from April to May. During the dry season, elephants were found in two distinctive groups, one using Gobele Valley and the other Erer Valley.
First‐degree relatives of patients with early‐onset gastric carcinoma show even at young ages a high prevalence of advanced OLGA/OLGIM stages and dysplasia
Authors: Marcos‐Pinto R. , Carneiro F. , Dinis‐Ribeiro M. , Wen X. , Lopes C. , Figueiredo C. , Machado J. C. , Ferreira R. M. , Reis C. A. , Ferreira J. , Pedroto I. , Areias J.
Published: May 2012

Background

First‐degree relatives (FDRs) of early‐onset gastric carcinoma (EOGC) patients are at increased risk of cancer development. OLGA/OLGIM (Operative Link on Gastritis/Intestinal Metaplasia Assessment) classifications have been proposed for the identification of individuals at high risk of gastric cancer development.

Aim

To estimate the prevalence and severity of premalignant conditions and lesions in FDRs of EOGC patients.

Methods

A case–control study was conducted encompassing 103 FDRs of EOGC patients (cases) and 101 age‐ and gender‐matched controls, all submitted to upper GI endoscopy and OLGA and OLGIM used for staging as well as modified versions with exclusion of the biopsies from incisura angularis in the analysis.

Results

Helicobacter pylori infection was present in 82% of cases (P = 0.001). Atrophy was present in 70% of cases (OLGA stages I–IV). High‐risk stages (III–IV) were identified only in cases (19%) (P < 0.001). Dysplasia was diagnosed only in cases (n = 7, P = 0.007). The application of OLGIM, modified OLGA and modified OLGIM classifications led to downgrade of stages in comparison with the original OLGA classification (27%, 15% and 30% respectively). In all classification systems, dysplastic lesions clustered (86%) in high‐risk stages.

Conclusions

FDRs of EOGC patients have, even at young ages, a high prevalence of H. pylori infection, high‐risk OLGA and OLGIM stages and dysplasia. These patients should undergo accurate endoscopic observation with at least four biopsies in antrum and corpus to allow adequate staging and follow‐up of premalignant conditions and lesions scored in high‐risk stages, in accordance with international guidelines recently proposed.