bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential Mechanisms for Racial and Ethnic Differences in Antimüllerian Hormone and Ovarian Reserve
Authors: Tal Reshef , Seifer David B.
Published: November 2013

Accumulating evidence suggests that reproductive potential and function may be different across racial and ethnic groups. Racial differences have been demonstrated in pubertal timing, infertility, outcomes after assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment, and reproductive aging. Recently, racial differences have also been described in serum antimüllerian hormone (AMH), a sensitive biomarker of ovarian reserve, supporting the notion that ovarian reserve differs between racial/ethnic groups. The existence of such racial/ethnic differences in ovarian reserve, as reflected by AMH, may have important clinical implications for reproductive endocrinologists. However, the mechanisms which may underlie such racial differences in ovarian reserve are unclear. Various genetic factors and environmental factors such as obesity, smoking, and vitamin D deficiency which have been shown to correlate with serum AMH levels and also display significant racial/ethnic variations are discussed in this review. Improving our understanding of racial differences in ovarian reserve and their underlying causes may be essential for infertility treatment in minority women and lead to better reproductive planning, improved treatment outcomes, and timely interventions which may prolong reproductive lifespan in these women.
Performance Analysis of a Kitting Process as a Paired Queue
Authors: De Cuypere E. , De Turck K. , Fiems D.
Published: November 2013

Nowadays, customers request more variation in a company’s product assortment leading to an increased amount of parts moving around on the shop floor. To cope with this tendency, a kitting process can be implemented. Kitting is the operation of collecting the necessary parts for a given end product in a specific container, called a kit, prior to arriving at an assembly unit. As kitting performance is critical to the overall cost and performance of the manufacturing system, this paper analyses a two-part kitting process as a Markovian model. In particular, kitting is studied as a paired queue, thereby accounting for stochastic part arrivals, and kit assembly times. Using sparse matrix techniques, we assess the impact of kitting interruptions, bursty part arrivals and phase-type distributed kit assembly times on the behaviour of the part buffers. Finally, a cost-profit analysis of kitting processes is conducted and an approximation for a two-part kitting process is established.
Thrust Reduction of Magnetic Levitation Vehicle Driven by Long Stator Linear Synchronous Motor
Authors: Tseng Wan-Tsun
Published: November 2013

The propulsion technology of long stator linear synchronous motors is used to drive high-speed maglev trains. The linear synchronous motor stator is divided into sections placed on guideway. The electric power supplies to stator sections in which the train just passes in change-step mode for long-distance operation. However, a thrust drop will be caused by change-step machinery for driving magnetic vehicle. According to the train speed and vehicle data, the change-step mode has three types of operation, namely premature commutation, simultaneous commutation, and late commutation. Each type of operation has a different thrust drop which can be affected by several parameters such as jerk, running speed, motor section length, and vehicle data. This paper focuses on determining the thrust drop of the change-step mode. The study results of this paper can be used to improve the operation system of high-speed maglev trains.
Robust Adaptive Switching Fault-Tolerant Control of a Class of Uncertain Systems against Actuator Faults
Authors: Jin Xiao-Zheng
Published: November 2013

This paper deals with the fault-tolerant control (FTC) problem for a class of linear time-invariant systems with time-varying actuator faults and uncertainties. For more general consideration, the faults and uncertainties are supposed to depend on the states of systems and unknown constant bounds. For the sake of eliminating the effects of such state-dependent faults and uncertainties automatically, a switching control strategy which is formulated by a sign function is designed to configure controller based on system’s states. And some adjustable control parameters are updated via designing adaptive laws. Based on the information from switching function and the adaptive estimation mechanism, the robust adaptive controllers are constructed to compensate for the effects of faults and uncertainties. Through Lyapunov functions and adaptive schemes, the asymptotic stability of the resulting adaptive FTC uncertain system can be achieved. The effectiveness of the proposed design is illustrated via a rocket fairing structural-acoustic model.
A Naturally Derived Small Molecule Disrupts Ligand-Dependent and Ligand-Independent Androgen Receptor Signaling in Human Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Amin Karishma S. , Jagadeesh Shankar , Baishya Gakul , Rao Paruchuri G. , Barua Nabin C. , Bhattacharya Samir , Banerjee Partha P.
Published: November 2013

Continued reliance on androgen receptor (AR) signaling is a hallmark of prostate cancer, including the development of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), making it an attractive therapeutic target for prostate cancer treatment. Mahanine is a novel carbazole alkaloid derived from the leaves of Murraya koenigii, commonly known as the curry leaf plant, which grows widely across East-Asia. We show here that mahanine possesses the ability to inhibit ligand-dependent and -independent AR transactivation, leading to a prominent decline in AR target gene expression. Mahanine treatment causes a time- and dose-dependent decline in AR protein levels, including truncated AR splice variants, in a panel of androgen-responsive and -independent prostate cancer cells. The decrease in AR levels induced by mahanine occurs posttranslationally by proteasomal degradation, without any change in the AR gene expression. Mahanine treatment induces an outward movement of the AR from the nucleus to the cytoplasm, leading to an initial increase in cytoplasmic AR levels, followed by a gradual decline in the AR levels in both cellular compartments. Ligand-induced AR phosphorylation at Ser-81, a phospho-site associated with prostate cancer cell growth and AR transactivity, is greatly diminished in the presence of mahanine. The decline in AR phosphorylation at Ser-81 by mahanine occurs via the inactivation of mitotic kinase CDK1. Collectively, our data demonstrate that mahanine strongly disrupts AR signaling and inhibits the growth of androgen-dependent and -independent prostate cancer cells, thereby implicating a therapeutic role of mahanine in prostate cancer treatment. Mol Cancer Ther; 13(2); 341–52. ©2013 AACR.
Cholesterol Esterification as a Mediator of Proliferation of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells and Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells during Atherogenesis
Authors: Mulas Maria Franca , Maxia Antonio , Dessì Sandra , Mandas Antonella
Published: November 2013

Background/Aims: We determined growth rates, cholesterol esterification and mRNA levels for caveolin-1 (Cav-1), neutral cholesterol esters hydrolase (n-CEH) and ATP-binding cassette transporter (ABCA-1), in quiescent and growth-stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and intimal vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) from blood and primary atherosclerotic plaques, respectively. These cells were cultured in the presence or absence of the mTOR inhibitor 40-O-(2-hydroxyethyl) rapamycin (RAD). Methods: The rate of cell proliferation was determined by 3H-thymidine incorporation into DNA and that of lipid metabolism by utilizing 14C-acetate and 14C-oleate as precursors. Lipid deposit in the vascular cells was evaluated by Oil Red O staining and lipid mass by thin layer chromatography-linked enzymatic assay. Results: Growth stimulation of PBMCs and VSMCs caused a rapid increase in intracellular cholesterol esterification and an accumulation of cholesterol esters (CEs) accompanied by a reduction of free cholesterol (FC) and Cav-1, ABCA-1 and n-CEH mRNAs. RAD reduced intracellular lipid accumulation in growth-stimulated cells and also increased expression of Cav-1, n-CEH and ABCA-1 genes. Conclusion: Collectively, these data provide evidence that the determination of CEs in PBMCs may be an easy prescreening test to identify subjects at risk for vascular proliferative disease and that FC, CE, Cav-1, n-CEH and ABCA-1 may be suitable targets for antiproliferative therapies.
Genesis of Heterotopia in BCNU Model of Cortical Dysplasia, Detected by Means of in utero Electroporation
Authors: Moroni Ramona Frida , Inverardi Francesca , Regondi Maria Cristina , Pennacchio Paolo , Spreafico Roberto , Frassoni Carolina
Published: November 2013

Derangements of cortical development can cause a wide spectrum of malformations, generally termed ‘cortical dysplasia' (CD), which are frequently associated with drug-resistant epilepsy and other neurological and mental disorders. 1,3-Bis-chloroethyl-nitrosurea (BCNU)-treated rats represent a model of CD due to the presence of histological alterations similar to those observed in human CD. BCNU is an alkylating agent that, administered at embryonic day 15 (E15), causes the loss of many cells destined to cortical layers; this results in cortical thinning but also in histological alterations imputable to migration defects, such as laminar disorganization and cortical and periventricular heterotopia. In the present study we investigated the genesis of heterotopia in BCNU-treated rats by labeling cortical ventricular zone (VZ) cells with a green fluorescent protein (GFP) expression vector by means of in utero electroporation. Here, we compared the migratory pattern and subsequent distribution of the GFP-labeled cells in the developing somatosensory cortex of control and BCNU-treated animals. To this aim, we investigated the expression of a panel of developmental marker genes which identified radial glia cells (Pax6), intermediate precursors cells (Tbr2), and postmitotic neurons destined to infragranular (Tbr1) or supragranular layers (Satb2). The VZ of BCNU-treated rats appeared disorganized since E18 and at E21 the embryos showed an altered migratory pattern: migration of superficial layers appeared delayed, with a number of migrating cells in the intermediate zone and some neurons destined to superficial layers arrested in the VZ, thus forming periventricular heterotopia. Moreover, neurons that reached their correct position did not extend their axons through the corpus callosum in the contralateral hemisphere as in the control, but toward the ipsilateral cingulated cortex. Our analysis sheds light on how a malformed cortex develops after a temporally discrete environmental insult.
Release From Glomerular Overload by the Addition of Low-dose Thiazide in Patients With Angiotensin Receptor Blocker-Resistant Hypertension
Authors: Hasegawa Hajime , Tayama Yosuke , Takayanagi Kaori , Asakura Juko , Nakamura Toru , Kawashima Kenji , Shimizu Taisuke , Iwashita Takatsugu , Ogawa Tomonari , Matsuda Akihiko , Mitarai Tetsuya
Published: November 2013

Background/Aims: This multicenter, prospective, observational study assessed the renoprotective effects of losartan/thiazide combination therapy in terms of lowering the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Methods: Adult patients with angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB)-resistant essential hypertension (n = 104) were enrolled and switched to combination therapy with losartan (50 mg/day) and hydrochlorothiazide (12.5 mg/day). Results: eGFR values declined significantly during the first 3 months, and changes in eGFR were assessed according to tertiles of the eGFR decrease ratio at 3 months. Only the high eGFR decrease (1st tertile) group showed significantly greater decreases in baseline eGFR and albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) during the first 3 months. Additionally, the assessment according to tertiles of the baseline eGFR showed a signifcant decrease in eGFR and ACR during the first 3 months in the high baseline eGFR (1st tertile) group, but not in the moderate (2nd tertile) and low baseline eGFR (3rd tertile) groups. Conclusion: The present results revealed that losartan/thiazide combination therapy attenuated glomerular overload, indicating that this therapy may provide glomerular protection in patients with an elevated GFR without causing prolonged damage to renal function.
Comparison of Microneedle Fractional Radiofrequency Therapy with Intradermal Botulinum Toxin A Injection for Periorbital Rejuvenation
Authors: Jeon In Kyung , Chang Sung Eun , Park Gyeong-Hun , Roh Mi Ryung
Published: November 2013

Background: For periorbital rejuvenation, injection of botulinum toxin A (BoNT/A) is known to improve both static as well as dynamic wrinkles. A microneedle fractional radiofrequency (MFR) device was recently developed and is a novel and promising tool. Objective: This study compares the effects of these two treatment modalities on periorbital static wrinkles and lines. Methods: Twelve healthy women aged 20-59 years with periorbital wrinkles participated in this study. Each patient received one session of intradermal injection of BoNT/A on the left periorbital area and three sessions of MFR on the right. Clinical improvement, skin elasticity and subjective satisfaction were evaluated at every visit (baseline, 3, 6 and 18 weeks). Results: BoNT/A injection showed superior effects at 3 and 6 weeks. However, the MFR device showed better improvement at 18 weeks. In skin biopsies, the expression of procollagen 3 and elastin was increased on the MFR side compared to the untreated skin and the BoNT/A injection side. The patient satisfaction surveys at 3 weeks showed better satisfaction on the BoNT/A treatment side compared to the MFR treatment side. At 18 weeks, there were no significant differences in patient satisfaction between the two sides. Conclusion: BoNT/A injection rapidly improved periorbital wrinkles, but the effect decreased up to week 18. Compared to BoNT/A injection, MFR therapy showed gradual and long-term improvement in periorbital rejuvenation.
Temperamental and Genetic Predictors of Suicide Attempt and Self-Mutilation
Authors: Dell'Osso Liliana , Mandelli Laura , Carlini Marina , Bouanani Siham , Rotondo Alessandro , Conversano Ciro , Serretti Alessandro , Marazziti Donatella
Published: November 2013

Background and Aims: Literature findings mainly support the notion that suicide attempts (SA) and self-mutilating behavior (SMB) are distinct behaviors, although they may share common psychopathological features. In the present paper we aimed to identify behavioral phenotypes in patients with SA, SMB, or both (SAM) and to analyze the association with candidate genes. Methods: One hundred forty-two inpatients with a history of SA (n = 86), SMB (n = 22), and SAM (n = 39) were included in this study. Subjects were evaluated using the Tridimensional Personality Questionnaire (TPQ) and the Buss-Durkee Hostility Inventory (BDHI). Polymorphisms within serotonin transporter (SLC6A4, HTTLPR), catechol-O-methyl transferase (COMT, Val158Met), and tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH, 218C>A) were also analyzed. Results: Principal component factor analysis including the BDHI and TPQ produced 3 factors that could classify the 3 groups of patients with good sensitivity. However, only the ‘pure suicidal' factor had a sufficient positive predictive value. This factor was characterized by high levels of persistence (PS) and, to a lower extent, reward dependence. The distribution of genotypes was not different across patient groups for all polymorphisms, but the SS genotype of HTTLPR was significantly associated with the ‘self-mutilation' factor, characterized by high levels of hostile traits, novelty seeking, and harm avoidance. Conclusion: The results of the present study suggest that different and overlapping temperamental traits in suicidal and self-mutilating patients are present, although only high levels of PS could predict SA repetition. Finally, HTTLPR may mediate the risk for SMB through modulation of some temperamental traits.
Four new troglobiotic species of the genus Megalothorax Willem, 1900 (Collembola: Neelipleona) from the Carpathian Mountains (Slovakia, Romania)
Authors: Papáč Vladimír , Kováč Ľubomír
Published: November 2013

Four new species of Megalothorax Willem, 1900 are described and illustrated: M. tatrensis sp. nov., M. carpaticus sp. nov., M. hipmani sp. nov. from caves in Slovakia and M. draco sp. nov. from the Drǎcoaia Cave in western Romania. The species represent troglobiotic forms exhibiting different level of troglomorphy involving such features as larger body, elongated foot complex, antennae, mucro and body chaetae. The most pronounced troglomorphy is observed in M. hipmani sp. nov. and M. draco sp. nov. Species descriptions are completed with comparative tables of chaetotaxy of antennae and legs. Diagnostic table for all congeners and dichotomous identification key to the world species are provided. Distribution records of other Megalothorax species in Slovakia are added.
Neoliomera moana, a new cavernicolous species of xanthid crab from the Marquesas Islands (Crustacea: Decapoda: Brachyura)
Authors: POUPIN JOSEPH , STARMER JOHN
Published: November 2013

A new crab Liomerinae, Neoliomera moana sp. nov., is described from the Marquesas Islands, based on three specimens collected by hand at the entrance of submarine caves at depths of 6–28 m. Within the genus the new species belongs to a group of six species that have the carapace cristate on the anterolateral margins. It can be recognized by the presence of a double crest on the upper margin of the palm of chela and by its colour pattern, with about twenty red spots on the dorsal surface of the carapace. This new species is considered has a potential endemic form to the Marquesas Islands.
The genus Asuridia Hampson, 1900 in Taiwan, with descriptions of two new species (Erebidae, Arctiinae, Lithosiini)
Authors: WU SHIPHER , FU CHIEN-MING
Published: November 2013

The lithosiine genus Asuridia Hampson, 1900 comprises seven described species from the Oriental region (Hampson 1900; Inoue 1988; Inoue and Kishida 1992; Fang 2000; Dubatolov et al. 2012). Its closest relative has been proposed to be Disasuridia Fang, 1991, based on the presence of a medial spur and absence of large cornuti on the aedeagus (Chang 1991; Kirti et al. 2013; the presence of spinose patches on the manica may be diagnostic for Asuridia). In Taiwan, only one endemic species, A. rubripennis Inoue, 1988, has been reported. However, the taxonomy of Asuridia remains incompletely understood, and we here review the Taiwanese fauna and describe two new species from Taiwan. Terminology in this paper follows Dubatolov et al. (2012), and institutional acronyms are as follows: BMNH, The Natural History Museum, London; ESRI, Taiwan Endemic Species Research Institute, Jiji, Nantou; NMNS National Museum of Natural Science, Taichung; NSYSU, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung; TFB, Taiwan Forestry Bureau, Taipei; TFRI, Insect Collection, Taiwan Forestry Research Institute, Taipei. Terminology in this paper follows Dubatolov et al. (2012).
Synoptic Typing and Precursors of Heavy Warm-Season Precipitation Events at Montreal, Québec
Authors: Milrad Shawn M. , Atallah Eyad H. , Gyakum John R. , Dookhie Giselle
Published: November 2013

A precipitation climatology is compiled for warm-season events at Montreal, Québec, Canada, using 6-h precipitation data. A total of 1663 events are recorded and partitioned into three intensity categories (heavy, moderate, and light), based on percentile ranges. Heavy (top 10%) precipitation events (n = 166) are partitioned into four types, using a unique manual synoptic typing based on the divergence of Q-vector components. Type A is related to cyclones and strong synoptic-scale quasigeostrophic (QG) forcing for ascent, with high-θe air being advected into the Montreal region from the south. Types B and C are dominated by frontogenesis (mesoscale QG forcing for ascent). Specifically, type B events are warm frontal and feature a near-surface temperature inversion, while type C events are cold frontal and associated with the largest-amplitude synoptic-scale precursors of any type. Finally, type D events are associated with little synoptic or mesoscale QG forcing for ascent and, thus, are deemed to be convective events triggered by weak shortwave vorticity maxima moving through a long-wave ridge environment, in the presence of an anomalously warm, humid, and unstable air mass that is conducive to convection. In general, types A and B feature the strongest dynamical forcing for ascent, while types C and D feature the lowest atmospheric stability. Systematic higher precipitation amounts are not preferential to any event type, although a handful of the largest warm-season precipitation events appear to be slow-moving type C (stationary front) cases.
An Examination of Preservice Teachers’ Intentions to Pursue Careers in Special Education
Authors: Zhang Dake , Wang Qiu , Losinski Mickey , Katsiyannis Antonis
Published: November 2013

An understanding of one’s intention to pursue a career related to special education is crucial yet there is limited research in this area. This study examined factors that influence teacher candidates’ intention to pursue a career in special education by surveying 214 preservice teachers. Data were analyzed using path analysis to capture the complex relationships. Results revealed that interest/commitment and outcome expectations of the special education careers were the two most important predictors of preservice teachers’ intention to work in special education–related careers. Special education teaching efficacy only has an indirect effect on their special education career intention via two mediator variables (i.e., special education outcome expectations and career interest/commitment to children with special needs). Preservice teachers’ personal and work experiences with individuals requiring special services directly influence their interest and commitment to serving individuals with special needs, and thus indirectly impact their intention to pursue a special education career.
In vitro synergistic activity of colistin with tigecycline or β-lactam antibiotic/β-lactamase inhibitor combinations against carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Karaoglan Ilkay , Zer Yasemin , Bosnak Vuslat Kecik , Mete Ayse Ozlem , Namıduru Mustafa
Published: November 2013

Objective

Nosocomial infection caused by carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii is a worldwide problem and treatment options remain controversial. This study investigated the in vitro effect of various antibiotic combinations against carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii strains.

Methods

Antibiotic susceptibility of A. baumannii strains was analysed. In vitro synergistic efficacy of colistin combined with tigecycline, cefoperazone/sulbactam or piperacillin/tazobactam was tested against carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii strains. Synergy studies were performed using an eplisometer test-strip method.

Results

Of the 50 carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii strains tested, 96% were susceptible to colistin and 64% were susceptible to tigecycline. Colistin–tigecycline, colistin–cefoperazone/sulbactam and colistin–piperacillin/tazobactam combinations were found to have synergistic effects against six (12%), two (4%), and one (2%), respectively, of the strains tested.

Conclusions

Colistin combined with tigecycline, cefoperazone/sulbactam or piperacillin/tazobactam revealed synergistic effects in some carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii strains. These results, together with the shortage of treatment options and the risk of developing resistance to colistin, suggest that clinicians should use colistin combined with other antibiotics or β-lactamase inhibitors when treating carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii infection.
Diagnosis of multiple primary lung cancer: A systematic review
Authors: Xue Xinying , Liu Yuxia , Pan Lei , Wang Yong , Wang Kaifei , Zhang Mingyue , Wang Peilan , Wang Jianxin
Published: November 2013

A substantial percentage (8%) of all newly diagnosed cancer cases are in patients with previous tumours, with a similar trend in lung cancer. Cases of multiple primary lung cancer (MPLC) are increasing worldwide, due to improved diagnostic and surveillance mechanisms and the ageing population. Diagnosis of MPLC is complicated by difficulties in distinguishing it from lung cancer metastasis. Clinicopathological assessment, diagnosis and management have evolved, but remain severely limited by the lack of robust and dependable molecular markers for the differential diagnosis of metastasis and MPLC. This systematic review evaluates diagnostic criteria for MPLC, and the subsequent management and success rates. The incorporation of molecular biology techniques into the diagnostic process for MPLC is also discussed.
Rhabdomyolysis in an HIV-infected patient following coronary angiography: case report and literature review
Authors: Sbrana Francesco , Coceani Michele , Iapoce Riccardo , Petersen Christina , Rovai Daniele
Published: November 2013

Rhabdomyolysis is a rare, but possible, complication of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART). We report a unique case of an HIV-positive patient on cART who came to our attention for suspected ischaemic heart disease. Coronary angiography was carried out and complicated in the following days by rhabdomyolysis. We discuss the possible links between rhabdomyolysis, iodinated contrast media and HAART.
Muscle Quality in Older Adults
Authors: Straight Chad R. , Brady Anne O. , Evans Ellen M.
Published: November 2013

The population of older adults in the United States is steadily growing and identifying factors that contribute to healthy aging is a public health priority. Changes in body composition are a hallmark of the aging process and have been implicated in the loss of physical function among older adults. In particular, age-related declines in muscle strength and power occur at a faster rate than the loss of muscle mass (sarcopenia), and this suggests a decrease in muscle quality of older adults. Muscle quality has traditionally been defined as muscle function (strength or power) per unit of muscle size (mass or cross-sectional area) and a growing body of literature suggests that lower body muscle quality may be critical for maintaining functional independence with age. However, the literature regarding the definition of muscle quality and its relationship with health outcomes in older adults has not been adequately reviewed. Thus, the aim of this report is to highlight the contemporary literature regarding age-related changes in muscle quality and its relationship with health outcomes in community-dwelling older adults.
A novel and essential role for FcγRIIa in cancer cell–induced platelet activation
Authors: Mitrugno Annachiara , Williams David , Kerrigan Steven W. , Moran Niamh
Published: November 2013

Key Points

The immune receptor FcγRIIa is a key mediator of tumor cell activation of platelets in the circulation. Secretion of adenosine 5′-diphosphate from dense granules is the primary response of platelets to activation by tumor cells.
Genome wide gene-expression analysis of facultative reproductive diapause in the two-spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae
Authors: Bryon Astrid , Wybouw Nicky , Dermauw Wannes , Tirry Luc , Van Leeuwen Thomas
Published: November 2013

Background

Diapause or developmental arrest, is one of the major adaptations that allows mites and insects to survive unfavorable conditions. Diapause evokes a number of physiological, morphological and molecular modifications. In general, diapause is characterized by a suppression of the metabolism, change in behavior, increased stress tolerance and often by the synthesis of cryoprotectants. At the molecular level, diapause is less studied but characterized by a complex and regulated change in gene-expression. The spider mite Tetranychus urticae is a serious polyphagous pest that exhibits a reproductive facultative diapause, which allows it to survive winter conditions. Diapausing mites turn deeply orange in color, stop feeding and do not lay eggs.

Results

We investigated essential physiological processes in diapausing mites by studying genome-wide expression changes, using a custom built microarray. Analysis of this dataset showed that a remarkable number, 11% of the total number of predicted T. urticae genes, were differentially expressed. Gene Ontology analysis revealed that many metabolic pathways were affected in diapausing females. Genes related to digestion and detoxification, cryoprotection, carotenoid synthesis and the organization of the cytoskeleton were profoundly influenced by the state of diapause. Furthermore, we identified and analyzed an unique class of putative antifreeze proteins that were highly upregulated in diapausing females. We also further confirmed the involvement of horizontally transferred carotenoid synthesis genes in diapause and different color morphs of T. urticae.

Conclusions

This study offers the first in-depth analysis of genome-wide gene-expression patterns related to diapause in a member of the Chelicerata, and further adds to our understanding of the overall strategies of diapause in arthropods.
Prioritizing genes responsible for host resistance to influenza using network approaches
Authors: Bao Suying , Zhou Xueya , Zhang Liangcai , Zhou Jie , To Kelvin Kai-Wang , Wang Binbin , Wang Liqiu , Zhang Xuegong , Song You-Qiang
Published: November 2013

Background

The genetic make-up of humans and other mammals (such as mice) affects their resistance to influenza virus infection. Considering the complexity and moral issues associated with experiments on human subjects, we have only acquired partial knowledge regarding the underlying molecular mechanisms. Although influenza resistance in inbred mice has been mapped to several quantitative trait loci (QTLs), which have greatly narrowed down the search for host resistance genes, only few underlying genes have been identified.

Results

To prioritize a list of promising candidates for future functional investigation, we applied network-based approaches to leverage the information of known resistance genes and the expression profiles contrasting susceptible and resistant mouse strains. The significance of top-ranked genes was supported by different lines of evidence from independent genetic associations, QTL studies, RNA interference (RNAi) screenings, and gene expression analysis. Further data mining on the prioritized genes revealed the functions of two pathways mediated by tumor necrosis factor (TNF): apoptosis and TNF receptor-2 signaling pathways. We suggested that the delicate balance between TNF’s pro-survival and apoptotic effects may affect hosts’ conditions after influenza virus infection.

Conclusions

This study considerably cuts down the list of candidate genes responsible for host resistance to influenza and proposed novel pathways and mechanisms. Our study also demonstrated the efficacy of network-based methods in prioritizing genes for complex traits.
Conjugative transfer of an IncA/C plasmid-borne blaCMY-2gene through genetic re-arrangements with an IncX1 plasmid
Authors: Wiesner Magdalena , Fernández-Mora Marcos , Cevallos Miguel A , Zavala-Alvarado Crispín , Zaidi Mussaret B , Calva Edmundo , Silva Claudia
Published: November 2013

Background

Our observation that in the Mexican Salmonella Typhimurium population none of the ST19 and ST213 strains harbored both the Salmonella virulence plasmid (pSTV) and the prevalent IncA/C plasmid (pA/C) led us to hypothesize that restriction to horizontal transfer of these plasmids existed. We designed a conjugation scheme using ST213 strain YU39 as donor of the bla
CMY-2 gene (conferring resistance to ceftriaxone; CRO) carried by pA/C, and two E. coli lab strains (DH5α and HB101) and two Typhimurium ST19 strains (SO1 and LT2) carrying pSTV as recipients. The aim of this study was to determine if the genetic background of the different recipient strains affected the transfer frequencies of pA/C.

Results

YU39 was able to transfer CRO resistance, via a novel conjugative mechanism, to all the recipient strains although at low frequencies (10-7 to 10-10). The presence of pSTV in the recipients had little effect on the conjugation frequency. The analysis of the transconjugants showed that three different phenomena were occurring associated to the transfer of bla
CMY-2: 1) the co-integration of pA/C and pX1; 2) the transposition of the CMY region from pA/C to pX1; or 3) the rearrangement of pA/C. In addition, the co-lateral mobilization of a small (5 kb) ColE1-like plasmid was observed. The transconjugant plasmids involving pX1 re-arrangements (either via co-integration or ISEcp1-mediated transposition) obtained the capacity to conjugate at very high levels, similar to those found for pX1 (10-1). Two versions of the region containing bla
CMY-2 were found to transpose to pX1: the large version was inserted into an intergenic region located where the “genetic load” operons are frequently inserted into pX1, while the short version was inserted into the stbDE operon involved in plasmid addiction system. This is the first study to report the acquisition of an extended spectrum cephalosporin (ESC)-resistance gene by an IncX1 plasmid.

Conclusions

We showed that the transfer of the YU39 bla
CMY-2 gene harbored on a non- conjugative pA/C requires the machinery of a highly conjugative pX1 plasmid. Our experiments demonstrate the complex interactions a single strain can exploit to contend with the challenge of horizontal transfer and antibiotic selective pressure.
Barriers in participant recruitment of diverse ethnicities in the state of Kuwait
Authors: Tariq Sufia , Goddard Catharine A , Elkum Naser
Published: November 2013

Background

High rejection rates of subject recruitments for research studies have been reported in immigrants in many countries. However, the barriers in recruiting members of the expatriate population in Kuwait have not yet been investigated. This study was therefore designed to identify barriers in recruiting expatriates for research studies in the state of Kuwait.

Methods

A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted on expatriate subject’s aged 18 years and older living in Kuwait. Difference between groups of continuous independent variables was analyzed using the t-test. Different categories such as ethnicity and gender were compared using the chi-square test.

Results

3460 (85.1%) participants were recruited and 617 (14.2%) refused to participate in the study while 2530 (38%) calls were unreachable from the total of 6607 calls placed. Younger subjects (mean age 41.1 years) were more hesitant to be part of the study compared to older participants. The rejections among South Asians was (41.8%), Arabs (32.6%), Southeast Asians (18.9%) while the others (6.6%) category was least to refuse among all the nationalities. Gender was not significantly associated with refusal.

Conclusion

There is an acute lack of appropriate recording of the problems faced while recruiting the participants. The findings suggest important messages for the decision makers in the area of expatriate recruitments, to understand the challenge and design new strategies to overcome the problem of recruitment in the state of Kuwait for research studies.
Neonatal outcomes after the transfer of vitrified blastocysts: closed versus open vitrification system
Authors: Chen Yuan , Zheng Xiaoying , Yan Jie , Qiao Jie , Liu Ping
Published: November 2013

Background

Increasing evidence indicates that closed vitrification has been successfully used in the cryopreservation of human oocytes and embryos. Little information is available regarding the neonatal outcome of closed blastocysts vitrification. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of blastocyst vitrification using a high-security closed vitrification system compared with an open vitrification system.

Methods

A total of 332 vitrified-warmed blastocyst transfer cycles between April 2010 and May 2012 were analyzed retrospectively. The post-thaw survival rate, implantation rate, clinical pregnancy rate, live birth rate, and neonatal outcome were recorded.

Results

There were no significant differences between the open vitrification group and the close vitrification group regarding the post-thaw survival rate (98% versus 95.8%), clinical pregnancy rate (47.6% versus 42.2%), implantation rate (42.9% versus 35.6%), and live birth rate (39.8% versus 32.1%). In total, 332 warming cycles produced 131 healthy babies. There were no significant differences in the mean gestational age, the birth weight, and the birth length between the two groups. No adverse neonatal outcomes were observed in the children born after the transfer of closed vitrified blastocysts compared with the transfer of open vitrified blastocysts.

Conclusions

These data suggest that blastocyst vitrification using a closed vitrification device seems safe and effective with results comparable to those obtained through open vitrification.
Age-associated telomere shortening in mouse oocytes
Authors: Yamada-Fukunaga Tomoko , Yamada Mitsutoshi , Hamatani Toshio , Chikazawa Nana , Ogawa Seiji , Akutsu Hidenori , Miura Takumi , Miyado Kenji , Tarín Juan J , Kuji Naoaki , Umezawa Akihiro , Yoshimura Yasunori
Published: November 2013

Background

Oocytes may undergo two types of aging. The first is induced by exposure to an aged ovarian microenvironment before being ovulated, known as ‘reproductive or maternal aging’, and the second by either a prolonged stay in the oviduct before fertilization or in vitro aging prior to insemination, known as ‘postovulatory aging’. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these aging processes remain to be elucidated. As telomere shortening in cultured somatic cells triggers replicative senescence, telomere shortening in oocytes during reproductive and postovulatory aging may predict developmental competence. This study aimed to ascertain the mechanisms underlying altered telomere biology in mouse oocytes during reproductive and postovulatory aging.

Methods

We studied Tert expression patterns, telomerase activity, cytosolic reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and telomere length in fresh oocytes from young versus reproductively-aged female mice retrieved from oviducts at 14 h post-human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), in vivo or in vitro postovulatory-aged mouse oocytes at 23 h post-hCG. Oocytes were collected from super-ovulated C57BL/6 J mice of 6–8 weeks or 42–48 weeks of age. mRNA and protein expressions of the Tert gene were quantified using real-time quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (Q-PCR) and immunochemistry. Telomerase activity was measured by a telomeric repeat amplification protocol assay, while telomere length was measured by Q-PCR and quantitative fluorescence in situ hybridization analyses.

Results

The abundance of Tert expression in oocytes significantly decreased during reproductive and postovulatory aging. Immunofluorescent staining clearly demonstrated an altered pattern and intensity of TERT protein expression in oocytes during reproductive aging. Furthermore, relative telomerase activity (RTA) in oocytes from reproductively-aged females was significantly lower than that in oocytes from young females. In contrast, RTA in postovulatory-aged oocytes was similar to that in fresh oocytes. Oocytes from reproductively-aged females and postovulatory-aged oocytes showed higher ROS levels than oocytes from young females. Relative telomere length (RTL) was remarkably shorter in oocytes from reproductively-aged females compared to oocytes from young females. However, postovulatory aging had no significant effect on RTL of oocytes.

Conclusions

Long-term adverse effects of low telomerase activity and increased ROS exposure are likely associated with telomere shortening in oocytes from reproductively-aged female mice.
Differential immunomodulatory effects by Tripterygium wilfordii Hook f-derived refined extract PG27 and its purified component PG490 (triptolide) in human peripheral blood T cells: potential therapeutics for arthritis and possible mechanisms explaining in part Chinese herbal theory “Junn-Chenn-Zuou-SS”
Authors: Ho Ling-Jun , Chang Wen-Liang , Chen Ann , Chao Ping , Lai Jenn-Haung
Published: November 2013

Background

For thousands of years, it remains unclear why Chinese prefer complex herbal remedy and seldom try to purify it. One of the reasons is that they believe Chinese herbs compared to Western drugs are relatively less toxic and better tolerated. The so called “Junn-Chenn-Zuou-SS” theory illustrates a concept of coordinated effects from a combination of different Chinese herbs. PG27, a refined extract from a well-known Chinese antirheumatic herb Tripterygium wilfordii Hook f (TwHf), is effective in attenuating transplantation rejection and extending survival of cardiac xenografts.

Methods

Experiments were conducted in human primary T lymphocytes isolated from buffy coat. The activities of the inhibitor of kappaB alpha kinase-inhibitor of kappaB alpha-nuclear factor kappaB (IKK-IκBα-NF-κB) and mitogen activated protein kinase-activator protein-1 (MAPK-AP-1) signaling pathways were determined via electrophoretic mobility shift assays, immunoprecipitation kinase assays, Western blots, and transfection assays.

Results

We showed that PG27 inhibited IKKα-IκBα-NF-κB and MAPK-AP-1 signaling pathways; however, IKKβ activity was less susceptible to inhibition by PG27. In contrast, the purified component of TwHf, PG490 (triptolide), reduced both MAPK-AP-1 and IKK-IκBα-NF-κB signaling pathways, including both IKKα and IKKβ, with similar potency. By means of high performance liquid chromatography analysis, it was estimated that PG490 constituted 1.27 ± 0.06% of the total PG27 content. Further analysis demonstrated that compared to PG490 alone, PG27 that contained an equal amount of PG490 was less toxic and less immunosuppressive, suggesting the presence of cytoprotective ingredient(s) in the non-PG490 components of PG27.

Conclusions

In addition to demonstrating the immunomodulatory capacity of PG27 as the potential therapeutics for arthritis and prevention of transplantation rejection, the differential regulatory effects and mechanisms by PG27 and PG490 further support in part a possibly-existing Chinese herbal theory “Junn-Chenn-Zuou-SS”.
Dramatically enhanced non-Ohmic properties and maximum stored energy density in ceramic-metal nanocomposites: CaCu3Ti4O12/Au nanoparticles
Authors: Tuichai Wattana , Somjid Saowalak , Putasaeng Bundit , Yamwong Teerapon , Chompoosor Apiwat , Thongbai Prasit , Amornkitbamrung Vittaya , Maensiri Santi
Published: November 2013

Non-Ohmic and dielectric properties of a novel CaCu3Ti4O12/Au nanocomposite were investigated. Introduction of 2.5 vol.% Au nanoparticles in CaCu3Ti4O12 ceramics significantly reduced the loss tangent while its dielectric permittivity remained unchanged. The non-Ohmic properties of CaCu3Ti4O12/Au (2.5 vol.%) were dramatically improved. A nonlinear coefficient of ≈ 17.7 and breakdown electric field strength of 1.25 × 104 V/m were observed. The maximum stored energy density was found to be 25.8 kJ/m3, which is higher than that of pure CaCu3Ti4O12 by a factor of 8. Au addition at higher concentrations resulted in degradation of dielectric and non-Ohmic properties, which is described well by percolation theory.
Oscillation results for second-order nonlinear neutral differential equations
Authors: Li Tongxing , Rogovchenko Yuriy V , Zhang Chenghui
Published: November 2013

We obtain several oscillation criteria for a class of second-order nonlinear neutral differential equations. New theorems extend a number of related results reported in the literature and can be used in cases where known theorems fail to apply. Two illustrative examples are provided.

MSC:34K11.
Recurrence risk after Ivor Lewis oesophagectomy for cancer
Authors: du Rieu Mael Chalret , Filleron Thomas , Beluchon Benoit , Humeau Marine , Julio Charles-Henri , Bloom Eric , Ghouti Laurent , Kirzin Sylvain , Portier Guillaume , Pradère Bernard , Carrère Nicolas
Published: November 2013

Objective

The aim of this study was to analyze the profile of tumor recurrence for patients operated on for cancer of oesophagogastric junction or oesophagus by Ivor-Lewis oesophagectomy.

Methods

Patients undergoing potentially curative Ivor-Lewis oesophageal resection between January 1999 to December 2008 at a single center institution were retrospectively analyzed. Their clinical records, details of surgical procedure, postoperative course, pathological findings, recurrence and long term survival were reviewed retrospectively. Univariate and multivariate survival analyses were performed.

Results

One hundred and twenty patients were analyzed. Fifty three patients (44%) presented recurrence during median follow-up of 58 months. Five-year relapse free survival (RFS) rate was 51% (95%CI = [46; 65%]). On multivariate analysis, pT stage > 2 (HR = 2.42, 95%CI = [1.22; 4.79] p = 0.011), positive lymph node status (HR = 3.69; 95% CI = [1.53; 8.96] p = 0.004) and lymph node ratio > 0.2 (HR = 2.57; 95%CI = [1.38; 4.76] p = 0.003) were associated with a poorer RFS and their combination was correlated to relapse risk. Moreover, preoperative tumor stenosis was associated with an increased risk of local recurrence (HR = 3.46; 95% CI = [1.38; 8.70] p = 0.008) whereas poor or undifferentiated tumor was associated with an increased risk of distant recurrence (HR = 3.32; 95% CI = [1.03; 10.04] p = 0.044).

Conclusion

pT stage > 2, positive lymph node status and lymph node ratio > 0.2 are independent prognostic factors of recurrence after Ivor-Lewis surgery for cancer. Their combination is correlated with an increasing risk of recurrence that may argue favorably, in addition with preoperative tumor stenosis assessment, for adjuvant treatment or reinforced follow-up.