bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HIERARCHICAL Li4Ti5O12 MICROSPHERES AS A HIGH POWER ANODE MATERIAL FOR LITHIUM ION BATTERIES
Authors: LUO HONGJUN , LI HONGSEN , SHEN LAIFA , NIE PING , WANG JIE , WANG XIAOYAN , ZHANG XIAOGANG
Published: August 2013

In this paper, hierarchical Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 microspheres were successfully synthesized in a large scale via a facile hydrothermal route. X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy were used to characterize the obtained Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 microspheres and the results indicate that the monodispersed Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 microspheres with ca. 2 μm in diameter was assembled by well-crystalline nanoparticles. Electrochemical analysis indicated that the Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 microspheres have superior rate capability and cycling performance. At the charge–discharge rate of 0.2, 1, 2, 5, 10 and 20 C, the discharge capacities of Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 microspheres are 169.2, 163.5, 158.3, 136.4, 117.6 and 94.3 mAh g−1, respectively. Excellent capacity retention of 98.7% was achieved after 100 cycles at 1 C rate and it can still maintained 91% even at high rate of 10 C.
FACILE TEMPLATE-FREE SYNTHESIS AND APPLICATIONS OF SnO2 NANOSPHERES IN LITHIUM ION BATTERIES
Authors: WU QIONG , JIAO LIFANG , LIU YONGCHANG , ZHAO YANPING , DU JUAN , WANG YIJING , YUAN HUATANG
Published: August 2013

In this paper, SnO 2 nanospheres have been synthesized via a surfactant-free solvothermal reaction followed by a heat treatment. CV results demonstrate that the formation of Li 2 O is partially reversible. Moreover, electrochemical measurements indicate the preferable electrochemical properties of SnO 2 nanospheres.
Loss of CCR5 results in glucose intolerance in diet-induced obese mice
Authors: Kennedy Arion , Webb Corey D. , Hill Andrea A. , Gruen Marnie L. , Jackson Laurel G. , Hasty Alyssa H.
Published: August 2013

Macrophage and T cell infiltration into metabolic tissues contributes to obesity-associated inflammation and insulin resistance (IR). C-C chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5), expressed on macrophages and T cells, plays a critical role in the recruitment and activation of proinflammatory M1 and TH1 immune cells to tissues and is elevated in adipose tissue (AT) and liver of obese humans and mice. Thus, we hypothesized that deficiency of CCR5 would protect against diet-induced inflammation and IR. CCR5-deficient (CCR5−/−) mice and C57BL/6 (WT) controls were fed 10% low-fat (LF) or 60% high-fat (HF) diets for 16 wk. HF feeding increased adiposity, blood glucose, and plasma insulin levels equally in both genotypes. Opposing our hypothesis, HF-fed CCR5−/− mice were significantly more glucose intolerant than WT mice. In AT, there was a significant reduction in the M1-associated gene CD11c, whereas M2 associated genes were not different between genotypes. In addition, HF feeding caused a twofold increase in CD4+ T cells in the AT of CCR5−/− compared with WT mice. In liver and muscle, no differences in immune cell infiltration or inflammatory cytokine expression were detected. However, in AT and muscle, there was a mild reduction in insulin-induced phosphorylation of AKT and IRβ in CCR5−/− compared with WT mice. These findings suggest that whereas CCR5 plays a minor role in regulating immune cell infiltration and inflammation in metabolic tissues, deficiency of CCR5 impairs systemic glucose tolerance as well as AT and muscle insulin signaling.
Role of stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 in skeletal muscle function and metabolism
Authors: Stamatikos Alexis D. , Paton Chad M.
Published: August 2013

Stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 (SCD1) converts saturated fatty acids (SFA) into monounsaturated fatty acids and is necessary for proper liver, adipose tissue, and skeletal muscle lipid metabolism. While there is a wealth of information regarding SCD1 expression in the liver, research on its effect in skeletal muscle is scarce. Furthermore, the majority of information about its role is derived from global knockout mice, which are known to be hypermetabolic and fail to accumulate SCD1's substrate, SFA. We now know that SCD1 expression is important in regulating lipid bilayer fluidity, increasing triglyceride formation, and enabling lipogenesis and may protect against SFA-induced lipotoxicity. Exercise has been shown to increase SCD1 expression, which may contribute to an increase in intramyocellular triglyceride at the expense of free fatty acids and diacylglycerol. This review is intended to define the role of SCD1 in skeletal muscle and discuss the potential benefits of its activity in the context of lipid metabolism, insulin sensitivity, exercise training, and obesity.
Cyclin-dependent kinase 5 modulates STAT3 and androgen receptor activation through phosphorylation of Ser727 on STAT3 in prostate cancer cells
Authors: Hsu Fu-Ning , Chen Mei-Chih , Lin Kuan-Chia , Peng Yu-Ting , Li Pei-Chi , Lin Eugene , Chiang Ming-Ching , Hsieh Jer-Tsong , Lin Ho
Published: August 2013

Cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) is known to regulate prostate cancer metastasis. Our previous results indicated that Cdk5 activates androgen receptor (AR) and supports prostate cancer growth. We also found that STAT3 is a target of Cdk5 in promoting thyroid cancer cell growth, whereas STAT3 may play a role as a regulator to AR activation under cytokine control. In this study, we investigated the regulation of Cdk5 and its activator p35 on STAT3/AR signaling in prostate cancer cells. Our results show that Cdk5 biochemically interacts with STAT3 and that this interaction depends on Cdk5 activation in prostate cancer cells. The phosphorylation of STAT3 at Ser727 (p-Ser727-STAT3) is regulated by Cdk5 in cells and xenograft tumors. The mutant of STAT3 S727A reduces its interaction with Cdk5. We further show that the nuclear distribution of p-Ser727-STAT3 and the expression of STAT3-regulated genes ( junB, c-fos, c-myc, and survivin) are regulated by Cdk5 activation. STAT3 mutant does not further decrease cell proliferation upon Cdk5 inhibition, which implies that the role of STAT3 regulated by Cdk5 correlates to cell proliferation control. Interestingly, Cdk5 may regulate the interaction between STAT3 and AR through phosphorylation of Ser727-STAT3 and therefore upregulate AR protein stability and transactivation. Correspondingly, clinical evidence shows that the level of p-Ser727-STAT3 is significantly correlated with Gleason score and the levels of upstream regulators (Cdk5 and p35) as well as downstream protein (AR). In conclusion, this study demonstrates that Cdk5 regulates STAT3 activation through Ser727 phosphorylation and further promotes AR activation by protein-protein interaction in prostate cancer cells.
Systems genetics of hepatocellular damage in vivo and in vitro: identification of a critical network on chromosome 11 in mouse
Authors: Liebe Roman , Hall Rabea A. , Williams Robert W. , Dooley Steven , Lammert Frank
Published: August 2013

Quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping is a powerful method to find modifier loci that influence disease risk and progression without prior knowledge of underlying genetic mechanisms. The aim of this study is to identify gene loci that contribute to individual differences in liver fibrosis following chronic liver damage. For this purpose, we carried out a mapping study across a panel of 21 BXD recombinant inbred strains using primary hepatocytes challenged with transforming growth factor (TGF)-β for 48 h. We identified a 6 Mb interval on chromosome 11 that is a major modifier of TGF-β-induced hepatocyte injury. Corresponding in vivo genetic analysis of fibrosis after chronic hepatotoxic injury by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4ip for 6 wk) highlighted the same locus. Expression QTL (eQTL) analysis in liver tissues in the BXD family identified six polymorphisms in this region that are associated with strong cis eQTLs and that correlate well with gene expression in liver after both 6 wk CCl4treatment and acute ethanol damage of the liver. Within this interval we rank two genes containing coding sequence variants as strong candidates that may modulate the severity of liver fibrosis: 1) the extracellular proteinase inhibitor gene Expi (also known as Wdnm1 or Wfdc18) and 2) musashi RNA-binding protein 2 ( Msi2). The powerful combination of experimental, genetics, and bioinformatics methods, as well as combined in vitro and in vivo approaches can be used to define QTLs, genes, and even candidate sequence variants linked to hepatotoxicity and fibrosis.
Haploinsufficiency of osterix in chondrocytes impairs skeletal growth in mice
Authors: Cheng Shaohong , Xing Weirong , Zhou Xin , Mohan Subburaman
Published: August 2013

Osterix ( Osx) is essential for both intramembranous or endochondral bone formation. Osteoblast-specific ablation of Osx using Col1α1-Cre resulted in osteopenia, because of impaired osteoblast differentiation in adult mice. Since Osx is also known to be expressed in chondrocytes, we evaluated the role of Osx expressed in chondrocytes by examining the skeletal phenotype of mice with conditional disruption of Osx in Col2α1-expressing chondrocytes. Surprisingly, Cre-positive mice that were homozygous for Osx floxed alleles died after birth. Alcian blue and alizarin red staining revealed that the lengths of skeleton, femur, and vertebrae were reduced by 21, 26, and 14% ( P < 0.01), respectively, in the knockout (KO) compared with wild-type mice. To determine if haploid insufficiency of Osx in chondrocytes influenced postnatal skeletal growth, we compared skeletal phenotype of floxed heterozygous mice that were Cre-positive or Cre-negative. Body length was reduced by 8% ( P < 0.001), and areal BMD of total body, femur, and tibia was reduced by 5, 7, and 8% ( P < 0.05), respectively, in mice with conditional disruption of one allele of Osx in chondrocytes. Micro-CT showed reduced cortical volumetric bone mineral density and trabecular bone volume to total volume in the femurs of Osxflox/+; col2α1-Cre mice. Histological analysis revealed that the impairment of longitudinal growth was associated with disrupted growth plates in the Osxflox/+; col2α1-Cre mice. Primary chondrocytes isolated from KO embryos showed reduced expression of chondral ossification markers but elevated expression of chondrogenesis markers. Our findings indicate that Osx expressed in chondrocytes regulates bone growth in part by regulating chondrocyte hypertrophy.
Employing the Waves to Measure Longitudinal Residual Stresses in Different Depths of a Stainless Steel Welded Plate
Authors: Javadi Yashar , Hloch Sergej
Published: August 2013

Ultrasonic stress measurement is based on the acoustoelasticity law which presents the relationship between the stress and acoustic wave velocity in engineering materials. The technique uses longitudinal critically refracted () waves that travel parallel to the material surface. The wave is a bulk longitudinal wave that propagates within an effective depth underneath the surface while the penetration depth of a wave depends on its frequency. It is possible to measure the residual stress in different depths by employing different frequencies of the waves. This paper evaluates welding residual stresses in different depths of a plate made of austenitic stainless steel (304L). The penetration depths are accurately measured for the waves produced by 1 MHz, 2 MHz, 4 MHz, and 5 MHz transducers. Residual stresses through the thickness of the plate are then evaluated by employing four different series of transducers. It has been concluded that the method is nondestructive, easy and fast, portable, readily available, and low cost and bulk measuring technique which can be accurately employed in through-thickness stress measurement of austenitic stainless steels.
Carboxyl-Terminal Modulator Protein Positively Regulates Akt Phosphorylation and Acts as an Oncogenic Driver in Breast Cancer
Authors: Liu Yu-Peng , Liao Wen-Chi , Ger Luo-Ping , Chen Jiun-Chin , Hsu Tai-I , Lee Yu-Cheng , Chang Hong-Tai , Chen Yu-Chia , Jan Yi-Hua , Lee Kuen-Haur , Zeng Yu-Hao , Hsiao Michael , Lu Pei-Jung
Published: August 2013

Akt activation has been implicated broadly in tumorigenesis, but the basis for its dysregulation in cancer cells is incompletely understood. In this study, we sought to clarify a regulatory role for the Akt-binding carboxy-terminal modulator protein (CTMP), which has been controversial. In evaluating CTMP expression in paired normal–tumor specimens of 198 patients with breast cancer, we found that CTMP was upregulated in breast tumors, where it was associated with poor patient survival. Notably, CTMP expression also correlated positively with Akt phosphorylation in breast cancer clinical specimens and cell lines. Furthermore, ectopic expression of CTMP promoted cell proliferation and enhanced the tumorigenic properties of estrogen-dependent breast cancer cells. This effect was correlated with increased sensitivity to insulin-induced Akt phosphorylation, which is mediated primarily by the phosphoinositide 3-kinase–Akt pathway. In contrast, short hairpin RNA-mediated silencing of endogenous CTMP decreased the proliferation of estrogen-dependent or estrogen-independent breast cancer cells. Mechanistic investigations defined the N-terminal domain of CTMP at amino acids 1 to 64 as responsible for Akt binding. Taken together, our results firmly corroborate the concept that CTMP promotes Akt phosphorylation and functions as an oncogenic molecule in breast cancer. Cancer Res; 73(20); 6194–205. ©2013 AACR.
Notch1 Is Required for Kras-Induced Lung Adenocarcinoma and Controls Tumor Cell Survival via p53
Authors: Licciulli Silvia , Avila Jacqueline L. , Hanlon Linda , Troutman Scott , Cesaroni Matteo , Kota Smitha , Keith Brian , Simon M. Celeste , Puré Ellen , Radtke Fred , Capobianco Anthony J. , Kissil Joseph L.
Published: August 2013

The Notch pathway has been implicated in a number of malignancies with different roles that are cell- and tissue-type dependent. Notch1 is a putative oncogene in non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and activation of the pathway represents a negative prognostic factor. To establish the role of Notch1 in lung adenocarcinoma, we directly assessed its requirement in Kras-induced tumorigenesis in vivo using an autochthonous model of lung adenocarcinoma with concomitant expression of oncogenic Kras and deletion of Notch1. We found that Notch1 function is required for tumor initiation via suppression of p53-mediated apoptosis through the regulation of p53 stability. These findings implicate Notch1 as a critical effector in Kras-driven lung adenocarcinoma and as a regulator of p53 at a posttranslational level. Moreover, our study provides new insights to explain, at a molecular level, the correlation between Notch1 activity and poor prognosis in patients with NSCLC carrying wild-type p53. This information is critical for design and implementation of new therapeutic strategies in this cohort of patients representing 50% of NSCLC cases. Cancer Res; 73(19); 5974–84. ©2013 AACR.
Prophylactic Intravesical Chemotherapy to Prevent Bladder Tumors after Nephroureterectomy for Primary Upper Urinary Tract Urothelial Carcinomas: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Fang Dong , Li Xue-Song , Xiong Geng-Yan , Yao Lin , He Zhi-Song , Zhou Li-Qun
Published: August 2013

Introduction: Intravesical recurrence after treatment of primary upper urinary tract urothelial carcinomas (UUT-UCs) is common. While intravesical instillation is widely used to prevent recurrence after transurethral resection for primary bladder tumors, there is still no consensus on the prophylactic capability of intravesical chemotherapy in preventing bladder tumor recurrence after surgery for UUT-UCs. Methods: A meta-analysis of the published results of clinical trials was performed to compare radical surgery alone or surgery plus postoperative intravesical chemotherapy. The primary end point was to determine the percentage of patients with recurrence in the different groups. Results: Our study includes five trials with recurrence information on 614 patients. During follow-up, 55 of 268 (20.5%) patients who received postoperative instillation had bladder recurrence compared to 127 of 346 (36.7%) patients who had no adjuvant treatment - a decrease of 41% in the odds of recurrence with chemotherapy (odds ratio 0.48, 95% confidence interval 0.33-0.69, p = 0.0001). No serious adverse events were reported. Subgroup analyses were temporarily unavailable. Conclusions: Postoperative intravesical chemotherapy significantly decreases the risk of bladder recurrence after nephroureterectomy for primary UUT-UCs. Postoperative intravesical instillation is considered the treatment of choice after nephroureterectomy.
Triple Therapy for Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Nonresponders in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Impact of Different Photodynamic Therapy Parameters
Authors: Veritti Daniele , Lanzetta Paolo
Published: August 2013

Purpose: To evaluate the safety and exploratory efficacy of triple therapy (TT) with single-session intravitreal ranibizumab, modified juxtascleral triamcinolone, and photodynamic therapy (PDT) in exudative age-related macular degeneration non-responder to anti-vascular endothelial growth factor. Methods: Thirty consecutive eyes were included. The first 10 eyes (cohort 1) enrolled received same-day TT with reduced-fluence/reduced-irradiance PDT, 10 eyes (cohort 2) received same-day TT with reduced-fluence/standard irradiance PDT, the last 10 eyes (cohort 3) received same-day TT with standard fluence/standard irradiance PDT. Results: All patients completed the 6-month follow-up. Mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at baseline was 1.1 (cohort 1), 0.9 (cohort 2) and 1.1 (cohort 3) logMAR. After 6 months, mean BCVA change was -0.15 (not significant), -0.13 (not significant) and 0.29 (p < 0.05) logMAR, respectively. Among eyes treated with standard fluence/standard irradiance PDT, 2 showed choroidal ischemia. Conclusions: The combination of modified juxtascleral triamcinolone, reduced-fluence PDT, and ranibizumab appears as a safe treatment option.
Management of Caesarean Scar Pregnancies Using an Intrauterine or Abdominal Approach Based on the Myometrial Thickness between the Gestational Mass and the Bladder Wall
Authors: Shao Ming-Jun , Hu Mei-Xu , Xu Xiao-Jiu , Zhang Lin , Hu Min
Published: August 2013

Aim: To describe our experience with various interventions for caesarean scar pregnancies (CSPs) based on the myometrial thickness between the gestational mass and the bladder. Methods: All patients were initially administered methotrexate. Then, the appropriate therapies hysteroscopy alone or combined with uterine artery embolization (group A) and direct laparoscopy alone or combined with laparoscopic uterine artery occlusion (group B) was selected based on the myometrial thickness between the gestational mass and the bladder. Results: The uteri of all 53 patients with CSPs were conserved; no conversion to laparotomy or blood transfusion was required. Uterine rupture occurred in one case during surgery in group A. The operative time in group B was longer than group A (42 ± 18 vs. 80 ± 33 min; p = 0.022). The two groups were also similar with respect to other characteristics (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Myometrial thickness should be considered during the management of CSPs. Surgical approaches in the treatment of CSPs using 2-mm boundaries may yield an optimal clinical outcome.
The Association between n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Levels in Erythrocytes and the Risk of Rheumatoid Arthritis in Korean Women
Authors: Lee Ae Li , Park Yongsoon
Published: August 2013

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is one of the most common autoimmune diseases that result in chronic inflammation of the joints. n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have been suggested to play a role in the pathogenesis and clinical course of RA. The purpose of the present study was to investigate whether erythrocyte levels of n-3 PUFA are associated with an increased risk of RA and whether this could potentially serve as an indicator of RA disease activity in Korean women. Methods: A total of 100 female RA patients and 100 healthy women were enrolled into this study. Erythrocyte fatty acid composition and RA disease activity were evaluated in all patients. Results: Erythrocyte levels of α-linolenic acid (ALA; 18:3n3), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; 20:5n3), and the omega-3 index [EPA + docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)] were significantly lower in RA patients than in healthy controls. Multivariable-adjusted regression analysis showed that the levels of ALA, EPA, and the ratio of EPA to arachidonic acid were negatively associated with the risk of RA after adjusting for body weight and smoking status. Additionally, the concentration of prostaglandin E2 was significantly decreased with increased levels of erythrocyte DHA among RA patients. Conclusions: Erythrocyte levels of EPA and ALA were negatively associated with the risk of RA in Korean women, which may be related to eicosanoid metabolism.
Hepatitis and Lupus-Like Syndrome during Infliximab Therapy for Psoriasis
Authors: Riad Hassan , Abu Shaikha Samya , Al Ansari Hamda , Al Naama Khalifa , Al Sada Hussein , Al Mansoori Mariam
Published: August 2013

Biologics are very useful medications that changed the lives of many patients in the last decade. However, we still do not know about the long-term side effects of these drugs. Infliximab is an anti-TNF chimeric antibody widely used and approved for the treatment of many diseases. Lupus-like syndrome and hepatitis are among the uncommon side effects of infliximab. Most of the written literature was published for cases of rheumatology and gastroenterology. We report here a case of both hepatitis and lupus-like syndrome that occurred sequentially in the same patient and compare our finding with two case reports of the same side effects, drug and disease.
Genesis 1-11 from an Indonesian Perspective: A New Commentary by Gerrit Singgih
Authors: Hoekema Alle G.
Published: August 2013

Abstract

This article reflects on the relevance of the work of the Indonesian theologian Gerrit Singgih, a prominent contextual theologian and scholar in the field of the Old Testament. The article provides brief information about his work in general, mainly written in the Indonesian language, and then gives several examples of how Singgih deals with Genesis 1-11 in his recent commentary, From Eden to Babel. This commentary is both a scholarly work and at the same time a clear example of a contextual approach; it reveals that Singgih shows a preference for the universal aspects of the Old Testament. A few critical comments form the conclusion of this contribution.
A Hermeneutical Challenge in the Fight against hiv and aids in the Johane Marange Apostolic Church
Authors: Nenge Richard Tafara
Published: August 2013

Abstract

This paper addresses the unique religious beliefs and practices of a prominent church in Zimbabwe, the Johane Marange Apostolic church. The Johane Marange Apostolic Church resists internationally accepted biomedical practices and social-cultural interventions in the fight against hiv and aids. The church resists these practices and interventions primarily because of its traditional Biblical interpretation. This paper argues that the church’s rejection of biomedicine and its promotion of deleterious marriage practices hamper Zimbabwe’s fight against aids. It advocates for a paradigm shift in the religious beliefs and practices of the Johane Marange Apostolic church including the valuing of girls’ and women’s education as part of the solution to overcome aids.
Understanding Convective Extreme Precipitation Scaling Using Observations and an Entraining Plume Model
Authors: Loriaux Jessica M. , Lenderink Geert , De Roode Stephan R. , Siebesma A. Pier
Published: August 2013

Previously observed twice-Clausius–Clapeyron (2CC) scaling for extreme precipitation at hourly time scales has led to discussions about its origin. The robustness of this scaling is assessed by analyzing a subhourly dataset of 10-min resolution over the Netherlands. The results confirm the validity of the previously found 2CC scaling for extreme convective precipitation.

Using a simple entraining plume model, an idealized deep convective environmental temperature profile is perturbed to analyze extreme precipitation scaling from a frequently used relation based on the column condensation rate. The plume model simulates a steady precipitation increase that is greater than Clausius–Clapeyron scaling (super-CC scaling). Precipitation intensity increase is shown to be controlled by a flux of moisture through the cloud base and in-cloud lateral moisture convergence. Decomposition of this scaling relation into a dominant thermodynamic and additional dynamic component allows for better understanding of the scaling and demonstrates the importance of vertical velocity in both dynamic and thermodynamic scaling. Furthermore, systematically increasing the environmental stability by adjusting the temperature perturbations from constant to moist adiabatic increase reveals a dependence of the scaling on the change in environmental stability. As the perturbations become increasingly close to moist adiabatic, the scaling found by the entraining plume model decreases to CC scaling. Thus, atmospheric stability changes, which are expected to be dependent on the latitude, may well play a key role in the behavior of precipitation extremes in the future climate.
The Optimal State for Gravity Currents in Shear
Authors: Bryan George H. , Rotunno Richard
Published: August 2013

This study examines the lifting of sheared environmental air by gravity currents, focusing primarily on the theoretical “optimal state” in which near-surface flow is turned into a vertically oriented jet. Theoretical models are presented from multiple perspectives, including the vorticity perspective that was first presented by Rotunno, Klemp, and Weisman and a flow-force balance perspective based on conservation of mass and momentum. The latter approach reveals a constraint on the depth of the environmental shear layer relative to the depth of the cold pool. Based on these control-volume constraints, a numerical solution for steady, inviscid, isentropic flow is obtained that shows how the cold-pool interface has a slightly concave shape and is nearly (although not strictly) vertical. Then, by initializing a time-dependent numerical model with a stagnant cold pool in an environment with low-level shear, it is shown that a statistically steady flow can be maintained with all the important elements of the analytic solution. Most notably, the front-relative flow is negligible behind the surface gust front at all levels, the interface of the cold pool maintains a predominantly vertical structure, and the net generation of vorticity by buoyancy within a control volume closely matches the horizontal flux of environmental vorticity on the side of the control volume. Sensitivity simulations confirm that the constraints identified by the analytic study must be met for the optimal state to be realized and that lifting of near-surface environmental air is optimized when a vertically oriented jet is created and maintained.
Discriminating Environmental Conditions for Significant Warm Sector and Boundary Tornadoes in Parts of the Great Plains
Authors: Boustead Joshua M. , Mayes Barbara E. , Gargan William , Leighton Jared L. , Phillips George , Schumacher Philip N.
Published: August 2013

Using system-relative composites, based on a dataset of significant tornadoes and null supercell events, environmental conditions associated with occurrences of significant tornadoes near discernible surface boundaries were compared to nontornadic boundary supercells, and warm sector significant tornadoes to nontornadic warm sector supercells, for a portion of the Great Plains. Results indicated that significant boundary tornadoes were associated with the exit region of a 300-hPa jet maximum, while null boundary events were in closer proximity to the 300-hPa jet entrance region. The differences at 300 hPa led to significant differences at the surface, as the null composite indicated deformation and confluence into the surface boundary and enhanced frontogenesis, while this was not present in the boundary significant tornado composite. Significant synoptic differences also were noted between the warm sector tornadoes and the warm sector null events. The warm sector significant tornadoes were associated with a much stronger, negatively tilted synoptic storm system, with the composite tornado in the 300-hPa jet exit region and downstream of increasing values of absolute vorticity. Additional thermodynamic and kinematic parameters pertaining to low-level moisture and environmental winds appeared to be important in distinguishing boundary and warm sector significant tornadoes from nontornadic supercell events. Statistical comparisons between boundary and warm sector significant tornado events showed significant differences in the climatology of their length, width, and date and time of occurrence.
Neonatal infections in Saudi Arabia: association with C-reactive protein, CRP -286 (C>T>A) gene polymorphism and IgG antibodies
Authors: Nasr Amre , Allam Gamal , Al-Zahrani Ali , Alsulaimani Adnan
Published: August 2013

Background

C-reactive protein (CRP) is a nonspecific, acute-phase protein that rises in response to infectious and non-infectious inflammatory processes. Infections are the single largest cause of neonatal deaths globally.

The primary aim of this study is to examine the association between CRP gene polymorphism and serum levels of CRP in correlation with early onset sepsis (EOS) infection in newborns living in Taif city, Saudi Arabia. The second aim is to examine the relationship between specific IgG/IgG subclasses and early onset sepsis (EOS) infection among these newborns.

Methods

Staphylococcus aureus(S. aureus) is one of the most common organisms related to sepsis infection in the newborn at King Abdel Aziz Specialist Hospital (KAASH). This study was conducted in Taif city, at KAASH’s neonatal intensive care unit between March and August 2012. Neonates were consecutively enrolled onto the study having met our inclusion criteria (as per our research protocol).

The CRP concentration level was analysed using NycoCard® CRP Single Test.CRP -286 (C>T>A) Apolymorphisms were analyzed using Pyrosequencing technology forCRPgenotyping. IgG subclasses were analysed in the study population using ELISA.

Result

Logistic regression analyses showed that the AA and AC genotypes were negatively associated amongst EOS neonates compared to suspected neonates. The frequency of CC and CT were significantly associated with the EOS neonates compared to the suspected group. The levels of specific IgG1, IgG2 and IgG3 antibodies were significantly lower amongst EOS compared to the suspected group.

Conclusions

Taken together, theCRP-286 (C>T>A) Agenotype polymorphism and specific IgG antibodies isotype levels can contribute to a reduced risk of EOS. Furthermore, CRP has a potential use in detecting EOS in neonates, which may mean earlier detection and management of EOS and subsequently better clinical outcome.
AtCTF7 is required for establishment of sister chromatid cohesion and association of cohesin with chromatin during meiosis in Arabidopsis
Authors: Singh Dipesh K , Andreuzza Sebastien , Panoli Aneesh P , Siddiqi Imran
Published: August 2013

Background

The establishment of sister chromatid cohesion followed by its controlled release at the metaphase to anaphase transition is necessary for faithful segregation of chromosomes in mitosis and meiosis. Cohesion is established by the action of Ctf7/Eco1 on the cohesin complex during DNA replication following loading of cohesin onto chromatin by the Scc2-Scc4 complex. Ctf7 is also required for sister chromatid cohesion during repair of DNA double strand breaks. Ctf7 contains an acetyltransferase domain and a zinc finger motif and acetylates conserved lysine residues in the Smc3 subunit of cohesin. In Arabidopsis CTF7 is encoded by a single gene and mutations in AtCTF7 cause embryo lethality indicating that the gene is essential.

Results

To study the function of Ctf7 in plants and to determine its role in sister chromatid cohesion, we constructed a conditional allele of AtCTF7 in Arabidopsis using an inducible RNA interference (RNAi) strategy, so as to avoid the embryo lethality caused by mutations in AtCTF7. We found that induction of RNAi against AtCTF7 caused severe inhibition and defects in growth during vegetative and reproductive stages as well as sterility. AtCTF7-RNAi plants displayed chromosome fragmentation and loss of sister chromatid cohesion during meiosis. Immunostaining for the cohesion subunit AtSCC3 showed a marked reduction in association of cohesin with chromatin during meiosis in AtCTF7-RNAi plants.

Conclusions

We find that AtCTF7 is essential for sister chromatid cohesion during meiosis in Arabidopsis and is required for association of cohesin with chromatin in prophase of meiosis.
Association between interleukin 1β and interleukin 10 concentrations: a cross-sectional study in young adolescents in Taiwan
Authors: Chang Jung-Su , Chang Chun-Chao , Chien Eve Yiwen , Lin Sean S-H , Cheng-Shiuan Tsai , Bai Chyi-Huey , Chao Kuo-Ching
Published: August 2013

Background

In adults, low circulating interleukin 10 (IL10) has been associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes. However, studies investigating IL10 in overweight and obese children have yielded conflicting results. The aim of this study was to investigate factors associated with serum IL10 concentration in young Chinese adolescents.

Methods

Young adolescents (n=325) ages 13.33±1.10 years were recruited into the cross-sectional study from 2010 to 2011. Parameters of obesity, individual components of MetS, iron status and serum IL10 were evaluated.

Results

Compared with their normal weight counterparts, overweight adolescents had lower serum IL10 but higher TNFα, nitric oxide (NO) and IL1β concentrations (all p<0.05). Obese adolescents had increased IL1β but decreased hepcidin concentration compared with normal weight (p<0.01 and p<0.05; respectively). A strong inverse relationship (p<0.0001) was found between IL10 and pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNFα and IL1β). Multivariate linear regression analysis showed serum IL1β was significantly correlated with IL10 (β=−0.156, p<0.0001). When overweight and obese adolescents were assessed separately from normal weight, only IL1β was inversely associated with serum IL10 (β=−0.231, p=0.0009). The association between IL10 and IL1β was weaker in adolescents with normal weight (β=−0.157, p=0.0002), after adjusting for gender, TNFα, IFNγ and NO.

Conclusions

Our study confirmed that low IL10 concentration is associated with overweight and obesity in young adolescents. We also demonstrated for the first time that pro-inflammatory cytokine IL1β is independently associated with IL10. A decline in IL10 concentration in overweight and obese adolescents may further contribute to the IL1β-mediated inflammatory environment associated with obesity.
Impact of a referral management “gateway” on the quality of referral letters; a retrospective time series cross sectional review
Authors: Xiang Ally , Smith Helen , Hine Paul , Mason Katy , Lanza Stefania , Cave Anna , Sergeant Jonathan , Nicholson Zoe , Devlin Peter
Published: August 2013

Background

Referral management centres (RMC) for elective referrals are designed to facilitate the primary to secondary care referral path, by improving quality of referrals and easing pressures on finite secondary care services, without inadvertently compromising patient care.

This study aimed to evaluate whether the introduction of a RMC which includes triage and feedback improved the quality of elective outpatient referral letters.

Methods

Retrospective, time-series, cross-sectional review involving 47 general practices in one primary care trust (PCT) in South-East England. Comparison of a random sample of referral letters at baseline (n = 301) and after seven months of referral management (n = 280). Letters were assessed for inclusion of four core pieces of information which are used locally to monitor referral quality (blood pressure, body mass index, past medical history, medication history) and against research-based quality criteria for referral letters (provision of clinical information and clarity of reason for referral).

Results

Following introduction of the RMC, the proportion of letters containing each of the core items increased compared to baseline. Statistically significant increases in the recording of ‘past medical history’ (from 71% to 84%, p < 0.001) and ‘medication history’ (78% to 87%, p = 0.006) were observed. Forty four percent of letters met the research-based quality criteria at baseline but there was no significant change in quality of referral letters judged on these criteria across the two time periods.

Conclusion

Introduction of RMC has improved the inclusion of past medical history and medication history in referral letters, but not other measures of quality. In approximately half of letters there remains room for further improvement.
Effects of lifestyle changes including specific dietary intervention and physical activity in the management of patients with chronic hepatitis C - a randomized trial
Authors: Rusu Emilia , Jinga Mariana , Enache Georgiana , Rusu Florin , Dragomir Andreea Diana , Ancuta Ioan , Draguţ Ramona , Parpala Cristina , Nan Raluca , Sima Irina , Ateia Simona , Stoica Victor , Cheţa Dan Mircea , Radulian Gabriela
Published: August 2013

Background

In patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC), obesity is involved in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance, fatty liver disease and progression of fibrosis. The objective of this study was to compare a normoglucidic low-calorie diet (NGLCD) with a low-fat diet (LFD) among participants with CHC. Aimed to measure the impact of dietary changes in reduction of insulin resistance, obesity but also in steatosis and fibrosis.

Methods

Randomized, controlled trial in three medical centers with assessments at baseline, 6 months and 12 months. Participants were patients over 35 years with chronic hepatitis C (n = 120) with BMI over 25 kg/m2. We evaluated the effects of NGLCD vs. LFD in weight management and metabolic improvement. The primary endpoint was to measure the impact of dietary changes through nutritional intervention in reversibility of insulin resistance, obesity, steatosis, and fibrosis. We performed anthropometric measurements, fasting glucose profile, serum lipids, liver profile, blood count at baseline, 6 and 12 months. Steatosis was evaluated using ultrasonographic criteria. Liver fibrosis was non-invasively assessed.

Results

After 6 and 12 months of intervention, both groups had a significant decrease in caloric consumption. At 6 months, weight loss was greater in the NGLCD group (−5.02 ± 3.43 kg vs. −4.1 ± 2.6 kg; p = 0.002) compared to the LFD group. At 1-year, however, weight loss was similar in both groups (−3.9 ± 3.3 kg vs. −3.1 ± 2.6 kg; p = 0.139). At 12 months, fasting plasma glucose, fasting plasma insulin, and HOMA-IR had significant improvements in both groups. With both diets aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) decreased with significant differences; also there were significant improvements in AST/ALT ratio, Forns fibrosis index. The two diets were associated with reduction of both the prevalence and the severity of steatosis (all p < 0.001). At 12 months, total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, triglycerides improved in both groups (all p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The present study establishes the benefits of low-calorie diet and low-fat diet in management of patients with hepatitis C regarding improvement of insulin resistance, steatosis and also fibrosis.

Overweight or obese patients with CHC undergoing a lifestyle intervention (specific dietary intervention and physical activity) for 1-year had significant improvements in body weight, lipid and hepatic profile.

Trial registration

PNCI2-3343/41008/2007
Cucurbitacin covalent bonding to cysteine thiols: the filamentous-actin severing protein Cofilin1 as an exemplary target
Authors: Gabrielsen Mads , Schuldt Maike , Munro June , Borucka Dagmara , Cameron Jenifer , Baugh Mark , Mleczak Andrzej , Lilla Sergio , Morrice Nicholas , Olson Michael F
Published: August 2013

Background

Cucurbitacins are a class of triterpenoid natural compounds with potent bioactivities that led to their use as traditional remedies, and which continue to attract considerable attention as chemical biology tools and potential therapeutics. One obvious target is the actin-cytoskeleton; treatment with cucurbitacins results in cytoskeletal rearrangements that impact upon motility and cell morphology.

Findings

Cucurbitacin reacted with protein cysteine thiols as well as dithiothreitol, and we propose that the cucurbitacin mechanism of action is through broad protein thiol modifications that could result in inhibition of numerous protein targets. An example of such a target protein is Cofilin1, whose filamentous actin severing activity is inhibited by cucurbitacin conjugation.

Conclusions

The implications of these results are that cucurbitacins are unlikely to be improved for selectivity by medicinal chemistry and that their use as chemical biology probes to analyse the role of specific signalling pathways should be undertaken with caution.
Electroacupuncture for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy: study protocol for a pilot multicentre randomized, patient-assessor-blinded, controlled trial
Authors: Kim Joo-Hee , Kim Eun-Jung , Seo Byung-Kwan , Lee Sanghun , Lee Seunghoon , Jung So-Young , Lee Min-Hee , Kim Ae-Ran , Park Hyo-Ju , Shin Mi-Suk , Choi Sun-Mi
Published: August 2013

Background

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is the main dose-limiting side effect of neurotoxic chemotherapeutic agents. CIPN can lead not only to loss of physical function, difficulties in activities of daily living (ADLs), and decreased quality of life, but also to dose reduction, delay or even cessation of treatment. Currently, there are few proven effective treatments for CIPN. This randomized controlled clinical trial is designed to evaluate the effects and safety of electroacupuncture (EA) for patients with CIPN.

Methods/design

This is a multicenter, two-armed, parallel-design, patient-assessor-blinded, randomized, sham-controlled clinical trial. Forty eligible patients with CIPN will be randomized in a ratio of 1:1 to the EA or sham EA arms. During the treatment phase, patients will undergo eight sessions ofverumEA or sham EA twice weekly for four weeks, and then will be followed-up for eight weeks. Electrical stimulation in the EA group will consist of a mixed frequency of 2/120 Hz and 80% of bearable intensity. Sham EA will be applied to non-acupoints, with shallow needle insertion and no current. All outcomes and analyses of results will be assessed by researchers blinded to treatment allocation. The effects of EA on CIPN will be evaluated according to both subjective and objective outcome measures. The primary outcome measure will be the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) quality of life questionnaire to assess CIPN (QLQ-CIPN20). The secondary outcome measures will be the results on the numerical rating scale, the Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test, the nerve conduction study, and the EORTC QLQ-C30, as well as the patient’s global impression of change and adverse events. Safety will be assessed at each visit.

Discussion

The results of this on-going study will provide clinical evidence for the effects and safety of EA for CIPN compared with sham EA.

Trial registration

Clinical Research Information Service:KCT0000506
Survey of bluetongue virus infection in free-ranging wild ruminants in Switzerland
Authors: Casaubon Julien , Chaignat Valérie , Vogt Hans-Rudolf , Michel Adam O , Thür Barbara , Ryser-Degiorgis Marie-Pierre
Published: August 2013

Background

In 2006, bluetongue virus serotype 8 (BTV-8) was detected for the first time in central Europe. Measures to control the infection in livestock were implemented in Switzerland but the question was raised whether free-ranging wildlife could be a maintenance host for BTV-8. Furthermore Toggenburg orbivirus (TOV), considered as a potential 25th BTV serotype, was detected in 2007 in domestic goats in Switzerland and wild ruminants were considered a potential source of infection. To assess prevalences of BTV-8 and TOV infections in wildlife, we conducted a serological and virological survey in red deer, roe deer, Alpine chamois and Alpine ibex between 2009 and 2011. Because samples originating from wildlife carcasses are often of poor quality, we also documented the influence of hemolysis on test results, and evaluated the usefulness of confirmatory tests.

Results

Ten out of 1,898 animals (0.5%, 95% confidence interval 0.3-1.0%) had detectable antibodies against BTV-8 and BTV-8 RNA was found in two chamois and one roe deer (0.3%, 0.1-0.8%). Seroprevalence was highest among red deer, and the majority of positive wild animals were sampled close to areas where outbreaks had been reported in livestock. Most samples were hemolytic and the range of the optical density percentage values obtained in the screening test increased with increasing hemolysis. Confirmatory tests significantly increased specificity of the testing procedure and proved to be applicable even on poor quality samples. Nearly all samples confirmed as positive had an optical density percentage value greater than 50% in the ELISA screening.

Conclusions

Prevalence of BTV-8 infection was low, and none of the tested animals were positive for TOV. Currently, wild ruminants are apparently not a reservoir for these viruses in Switzerland. However, we report for the first time BTV-8 RNA in Alpine chamois. This animal was found at high altitude and far from a domestic outbreak, which suggests that the virus could spread into/through the Alps. Regarding testing procedures, hemolysis did not significantly affect test results but confirmatory tests proved to be necessary to obtain reliable prevalence estimates. The cut-off value recommended by the manufacturer for the screening test was applicable for wildlife samples.
Severe hyperkalemia following colon diversion surgery in a patient undergoing chronic hemodialysis: a case report
Authors: Kononowa Nina , Dickenmann Michael J , Kim Min Jeong
Published: August 2013

Introduction

Potassium (K+) homeostasis in healthy subjects is maintained mainly by urinary excretion of K+. In patients with end-stage renal disease, the intestinal tract might assume an accessory K+ excretory role in the face of declining renal excretory function. Here, we report the case of a patient with end-stage renal disease who developed severe hyperkalemia following colon diversion surgery.

Case presentation

A 56-year-old Caucasian woman undergoing hemodialysis experienced ischemic colitis, leading to ileocecal resection and a temporary ileostomy. She made a good recovery and her dietary intake improved. However, her pre-dialysis serum K+ level three weeks later was 7.2mmol/L, which was much higher than her previous level (range 4.9 to 6.1mmol/L). Despite dietary restriction of K+ and use of oral cation-exchange resin and low K+ dialysate, her serum K+ level remained high (6.1 to 8.3mmol/L). Six months later, her bowel continuity was restored and her serum K+ decreased to the previous level. Her fecal K+ concentration before and after stoma reversal showed a marked difference: 23mmol/L before and 60mmol/L after.

Conclusions

We assume that the severe hyperkalemia seen in our patient was caused by reduced colonic K+ secretion due to the colon diversion. Our patient’s case demonstrates the importance of colonic K+ secretion for the maintenance of K+ homeostasis in patients with end-stage renal disease.