bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptive Fixation in Two-Locus Models of Stabilizing Selection and Genetic Drift
Authors: Wollstein Andreas , Stephan Wolfgang
Published: August 2014

The relationship between quantitative genetics and population genetics has been studied for nearly a century, almost since the existence of these two disciplines. Here we ask to what extent quantitative genetic models in which selection is assumed to operate on a polygenic trait predict adaptive fixations that may lead to footprints in the genome (selective sweeps). We study two-locus models of stabilizing selection (with and without genetic drift) by simulations and analytically. For symmetric viability selection we find that ∼16% of the trajectories may lead to fixation if the initial allele frequencies are sampled from the neutral site-frequency spectrum and the effect sizes are uniformly distributed. However, if the population is preadapted when it undergoes an environmental change (i.e., sits in one of the equilibria of the model), the fixation probability decreases dramatically. In other two-locus models with general viabilities or an optimum shift, the proportion of adaptive fixations may increase to >24%. Similarly, genetic drift leads to a higher probability of fixation. The predictions of alternative quantitative genetics models, initial conditions, and effect-size distributions are also discussed.
Mode of Obstetrical Delivery and Type 1 Diabetes: A Sibling Design Study
Authors: Khashan Ali S. , Kenny Louise C. , Lundholm Cecilia , Kearney Patricia M. , Gong Tong , Almqvist Catarina
Published: August 2014

OBJECTIVES:

We investigated the association between cesarean section (CS) and type 1 diabetes (T1D), and if the association remains after accounting for familial confounding by using a sibling-control design.

METHODS:

We conducted a population-based cohort study of all singleton live births in Sweden between 1982 and 2009, followed by sibling-control analyses. T1D diagnoses were identified from the Swedish National Patient Register. Mode of delivery was categorized into unassisted vaginal delivery (reference group), instrumental vaginal delivery (IVD), emergency CS, and elective CS. The statistical analysis was conducted in 2 steps: firstly log-linear Poisson regression with aggregated person-years by using the full cohort; secondly, conditional logistic regression for sibling-control analyses. The sibling analysis included siblings who were discordant for both mode of delivery and T1D.

RESULTS:

In the cohort analyses (N = 2 638 083), there was an increased risk of childhood T1D among children born by elective CS (adjusted relative risk [RR] = 1.15 [95% confidence interval: 1.06–1.25]) and IVD (RR=1.14 [1.06–1.23]) but not emergency CS (RR = 1.02 [0.95–1.11]) when compared with children born by unassisted vaginal birth. However, the effect of elective CS and IVD on childhood T1D almost disappeared and became nonsignificant in the sibling-control analyses.

CONCLUSIONS:

The present findings suggest a small association between elective CS and IVD and T1D. The sibling-control results, however, suggest that these findings are not consistent with causal effects of mode of delivery on T1D and may be due to familial confounders such as genetic susceptibility and environmental factors.
ADEQUAÇÃO DOS MODELOS DE LANGMUIR E FREUNDLICH NA ADSORÇÃO DE COBRE EM SOLO ARGILOSO DO SUL DO BRASIL
Authors: Suszek Gonçalves Morgana , Bettin João Paulo , Santos da Silva Junior Luiz Carlos , Sampaio Silvio Cesar , Dal Bosco Tatiane Cristina
Published: August 2014

Os estudos da capacidade de adsorção de metais pesados em um solo podem ser empregados para avaliar a contribuição deste na contaminação de águas superficiais e subterrâneas. Este trabalho teve por objetivo estudar a adequação dos modelos de Langmuir e de Freundlich para descrever a adsorção de cobre em Latossolo Vermelho Distrófico úmbrico de textura argilosa. Para determinação da capacidade de adsorção de cobre no solo, utilizou-se 2,000g de solo adicionados de 10 mL de CaCl2 0,01 mol L-1 e 10 mL de soluções de CuCl2 em diferentes concentrações. A capacidade máxima de adsorção de cobre no solo, determinada pelo modelo de Langmuir, foi de 2,95 mg g-1. Além disso, os resultados demonstraram que o modelo de Freundlich apresentou melhor ajuste aos dados experimentais, simulando adequadamente a adsorção do cobre no solo em estudo.
USO DE DROGAS E DESEMPENHO ESCOLAR ENTRE JOVENS E ADOLESCENTES DO ENSINO MÉDIO DE UMA ESCOLA PÚBLICA DE PIRES DO RIO – GO
Authors: D'Orazio Wilcker Pereira Silva , Carvalho Solange Aline de , Lima Thiago Henrique de , Borges Asafy Abrahão Teixeira , Picoli Marcielly Cirstina , Marques Anna Carolina de Lima , Santos Káryta Franciele Gomes dos , Oliveira Jéssica Ferreira de , Gregório Elisângela de Sousa , Resende Paula Silva , Alves Maria Aparecida Salustiano Borges , Gonçalves Randys Caldeira , Malafaia Guilherme
Published: August 2014

Este estudo teve como objetivo estimar a prevalência do uso de drogas por discentes de uma escola da rede estadual de Pires do Rio, Goiás, associando-a ao desempenho escolar dos mesmos. Participaram da pesquisa 371 discentes do ensino médio, com idade entre 14 e 34 anos, dos turnos matutino e noturno que responderam a um questionário anônimo coletivamente em sala de aula. As drogas mais consumidas, alguma vez na vida, foram: álcool (95,8%), tabaco (46,1%), maconha (3,5%), solventes (4%), cocaína (4%) e crack (0,5%). A partir deste estudo, foi possível perceber que os índices de reprovação apresentados, nos períodos investigados, foi elevado, quando associado aos discentes que já tiveram contato com algum tipo de droga, o que reforça a hipótese de que o uso de tais substâncias pode interferir no desempenho escolar dos alunos. Considera-se necessário a implantação de políticas de intervenção contra o uso de drogas, a fim de minimizar o problema.
O DESIGN CENTRADO NO HUMANO NA ATUAL PESQUISA BRASILEIRA - UMA ANÁLISE ATRAVÉS DAS PERSPECTIVAS DE KLAUS KRIPPENDORFF E DA IDEO
Authors: Chaves Iana Garófalo , Bittencourt João Paulo , Taralli Cibele Haddad
Published: August 2014

O presente artigo possui como objetivo relacionar o discurso de design centrado no humano (DCH) apresentado na literatura de Klaus Krippendorff com os métodos propostos pela empresa IDEO, e analisar quais e como esses métodos vem sendo empregados na pesquisa em design no Brasil, através de artigos publicados nas duas ultimas edições do congresso P&D. A pesquisa é um estudo bibliográfico de caráter comparativo, que utiliza-se da análise do discurso. Desse modo, é possível observar que os métodos do DCH estão mais presentes nas fases inicial e intermediária das pesquisas, denotando a necessidade de um maior desenvolvimento de tais métodos na fase final dos estudos.
A VIDA NO LIXO: UM ESTUDO DE CASO SOBRE OS CATADORES DE MATERIAIS RECICLÁVEIS NO MUNICÍPIO DE IPAMERI, GO
Authors: Gonçalves Cleber Vaz , Malafaia Guilherme , Castro André Luis da Silva , Veiga Bruno Gonzaga Agapito da
Published: August 2014

O lixo ainda é um dos grandes problemas sócio-ambientais brasileiros. Nas unidades de destinação final de resíduos sem qualquer tipo de controle estão as condições de trabalho de uma parcela da população cada vez mais crescente e pouco reconhecida. Os catadores de materiais recicláveis são hoje objeto de inúmeras políticas públicas de inclusão social, mas que não tem o devido alcance nacional, sobretudo em pequenos municípios. Nesse contexto, essa pesquisa buscou identificar o perfil e condições de trabalho de catadores de material reciclável no município de Ipameri (GO), revelando que a situação local não é diferente de outras cidades brasileiras, mas o reconhecimento por parte do poder público pode vir a ser tardio em relação às grandes cidades onde o problema é mais aparente.
Increased Neutrophil Elastase and Proteinase 3 and Augmented NETosis Are Closely Associated With β-Cell Autoimmunity in Patients With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Wang Yudong , Xiao Yang , Zhong Ling , Ye Dewei , Zhang Jialiang , Tu Yiting , Bornstein Stefan R. , Zhou Zhiguang , Lam Karen S.L. , Xu Aimin
Published: August 2014

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease resulting from the self-destruction of insulin-producing β-cells. Reduced neutrophil counts have been observed in patients with T1D. However, the pathological roles of neutrophils in the development of T1D remain unknown. Here we show that circulating protein levels and enzymatic activities of neutrophil elastase (NE) and proteinase 3 (PR3), both of which are neutrophil serine proteases stored in neutrophil primary granules, were markedly elevated in patients with T1D, especially those with disease duration of less than 1 year. Furthermore, circulating NE and PR3 levels increased progressively with the increase of the positive numbers and titers of the autoantibodies against β-cell antigens. An obvious elevation of NE and PR3 was detected even in those autoantibody-negative patients. Increased NE and PR3 in T1D patients are closely associated with elevated formation of neutrophil extracellular traps. By contrast, the circulating levels of α1-antitrypsin, an endogenous inhibitor of neutrophil serine proteases, are decreased in T1D patients. These findings support an early role of neutrophil activation and augmented neutrophil serine proteases activities in the pathogenesis of β-cell autoimmunity and also suggest that circulating NE and PR3 may serve as sensitive biomarkers for the diagnosis of T1D.
Cognitive Function and the Risk for Diabetes Among Young Men
Authors: Twig Gilad , Gluzman Israel , Tirosh Amir , Gerstein Hertzel C. , Yaniv Gal , Afek Arnon , Derazne Estela , Tzur Dorit , Karasik Avraham , Gordon Barak , Fruchter Eyal , Lubin Gadi , Rudich Assaf , Cukierman-Yaffe Tali
Published: August 2014

OBJECTIVE

Diabetes is a risk factor for an accelerated rate of cognitive decline and dementia. However, the relationship between cognitive function and the subsequent development of diabetes is unclear.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We conducted a historical-prospective cohort study merging data collected at premilitary recruitment assessment with information collected at the Staff Periodic Examination Center of the Israeli Army Medical Corps. Included were men aged 25 years or older without a history of diabetes at the beginning of follow-up with available data regarding their general intelligence score (GIS), a comprehensive measure of cognitive function, at age 17 years.

RESULTS

Among 35,500 men followed for a median of 5.5 years, 770 new cases of diabetes were diagnosed. After adjustment for age, participants in the lowest GIS category had a 2.6-fold greater risk for developing diabetes compared with those in the highest GIS category. In multivariable analysis adjusted for age, BMI, fasting plasma glucose, sociogenetic variables, and lifestyle risk factors, those in the lowest GIS category had a twofold greater risk for incident diabetes when compared with the highest GIS category (hazard ratio 2.1 [95% CI 1.5–3.1]; P < 0.001). Additionally, participants in the lowest GIS category developed diabetes at a mean age of 39.5 ± 4.7 years and those in the highest GIS group at a mean age of 41.5 ± 5.1 years (P for comparison 0.042).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that in addition to a potential causal link between diabetes and enhanced cognitive decline, lower cognitive function at late adolescence is independently associated with an elevated risk for future diabetes.
Conceptual Model of the Long-Term Socio-Ecological Research Platform of Engure Ecoregion, Latvia
Authors: Melecis Viesturs , Kļaviņš Māris , Laiviņš Māris , Rūsiņa Solvita , Spriņģe Gunta , Vīksne Jānis , Krišjāne Zaiga , Strāķe Solvita
Published: August 2014

The article discusses the results of the national project aimed at elaboration of a conceptual integrated model of the Engure LT(S)ER (Long-Term Socio-Ecological Research) platform of Latvia. The platform represents the drainage basin of costal Lake Engure (644 km2) together with the coastal marine zone of the Gulf of Rîga. The core zone of the ecoregion is the Lake Engure Nature Park (LENP), which is a Ramsar site. The conceptual model is a slightly modified version based on the DPSIR (Drivers-Pressures-States-Impacts-Responses) concept. The socioecological system was spatially demarcated and drivers were subdivided in two groups - external and local ones. The Engure ecoregion was subdivided into seven zones or sub-regions mostly demarcated by natural geological and geographical barriers. Each zone has a specific set of drivers and pressures as well as a specific ecosystem structure and elements of biodiversity. Analysis of the governing drivers and pressures was performed separately for each sub-region during three time periods: 19th century - beginning of 20th century, period of Soviet occupation (1940-1991), and period after restoration of independence of Latvia (1991 - up to now). Characteristics of the state of ecosystems and biodiversity are given. Responses of the socioeconomic component of the socio-ecological system are represented mainly by external factors to the ecoregion, including environmental legislation and funding necessary for research and ecological management. Two alternative scenarios of the development of the Engure ecoregion are discussed: (i) depopulation and land abandonment, and (ii) intensification of agriculture, small-scale industry and building construction. In both cases the present state of ecosystems and the structure of species diversity would be subjected to significant change. Sustainable development of the ecoregion can be provided only by implementation of certain environmental management measures accompanied by long-term socio-ecological research and ecological monitoring.
Dynamic Modeling for Environmental Processes: A Case Study of Lake Engure
Authors: Zariņš Mārcis , Blumberga Andra , Klaviņš Māris , Melecis Viesturs
Published: August 2014

This focus of the study was on system dynamic models that could be useful for modelling environmental processes in Lake Engure. The paper considers the system dynamic model development principles, the most important elements and structure. The aim of the study was to describe possible methods of ecosystem process modelling that allow to represent the actual state of ecosystems and provide opportunities to predict further processes. The methods of ecosystem modelling considered in the paper reveal interactive factors of anthropogenic and environmental processes that influence changes in ecosystems. System dynamic models indicate not only interactions between various factors in the environment but also the most important driving forces. These models are based on flowchart and algorithm systems, which represent changes using mathematical functions in a graphic or tabular form. In the case study of Lake Engure, connections between factors that influence ecosystems in the study area were identified. Specialised software, PowerSim Studio Academic 9.0, was used for modelling. The model consists of qualitative and multifactor data of Lake Engure ecosystems, such as water chemical, physical and hydrological parameters, biological, ornithological and other data collected in the study area. Development of this modelling method will make it possible to evaluate the impact of various processes on biological diversity changes in the study area and to identify the most important problems. Furthermore, this method could improve environmental management practice in the surrounding municipalities, and it will also be possible to make similar models of ecosystem quality in other regions.
Impact of eutrophication and climate change on Cd and other trace metal dynamic in the Gulf of Riga, Baltic Sea
Authors: Aigars Juris , Poikāne Rita , Jurgensone Iveta , Jansons Mintauts
Published: August 2014

The ability of Cd and other trace metals to be incorporated in living phytoplankton cells has been widely used to explain its dynamic in marine ecosystem. However, the discrepancy between results from water column studies and those from studies in sediments remain unexplained. This strongly suggests a need for study with a more interconnected approach in identification of the main governing factors of trace element dynamics. Therefore, we conducted this study, which linked sedimentary records of trace elements with particular emphasis on Cd with available supporting information from sediments and water column. The concentrations of Cu, Mn, Cd and Cr in sediments of the Gulf of Riga exhibited significant (P < 0.01) positive relationships, while concentrations of Al and Ni had significant (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05, respectively) negative correlation with concentrations of TC. Concentrations of Zn, Pb and Fe in sediments did not exhibit significant correlation with concentrations of total carbon (TC). The vertical profiles of concentrations of several elements indicated that their accumulation patterns in sediments have changed substantially over time in respect to that of TC. The magnitude of change varied substantially from retaining positive correlation but changing element ratio value, in case of Cd, to complete shift from positive correlation to negative, in case of Zn and Cu.
Current trends in formats and coordinate transformations of geospatial data — based on MyGeoData Converter
Authors: Orlik Antonin , Orlikova Lucie
Published: August 2014

With the rise in the number of applications using geospatial data and the number of GIS applications, the number of people who come into contact with geospatial data is increasing, too. Despite many attempts to introduce standardized formats in this area, they are often ignored by software developers as well as the users themselves for various reasons. When creating or exporting geographical data, users choose the format with regard to the software they use, or for which the data are intended. Users then have to deal with conversion of data formats, and considering its use also the issue of their transformation to the appropriate spatial reference system. This work presents findings related to this issue, obtained from several years of operation of an online service for the conversion and transformation of geographical data which is heavily used by users from all over the world. It presents statistics of individual formats use and spatial reference systems of geospatial data use from the point of view of both input and output data. The results, besides other things, are shown in the form of a pie chart map in which various needs of users from a variety of countries can be seen. The results of this work can be used especially by developers of applications which use geospatial data; it will allow them to quickly understand current user needs.
Analysis on spatial distribution characteristics and geographical factors of Chinese National Geoparks
Authors: Wang Fang , Zhang Xiaolei , Yang Zhaoping , Luan Fuming , Xiong Heigang , Wang Zhaoguo , Shi Hui
Published: August 2014

This study presents the Pearson correlation analyses of the various factors influencing the Chinese National Geoparks. The aim of this contribution is to offer insights on the Chinese National Geoparks by describing its relations with geoheritage and their intrinsic linkages with geological, climatic controls. The results suggest that: 1) Geomorphologic landscape and palaeontology National Geoparks contribute to 81.65% of Chinese National Geoparks. 2) The NNI of geoparks is 0.97 and it belongs to causal distributional patternwhose regional distributional characteristics may be best characterized as’ dispersion in overall and aggregation in local’. 3) Spatial distribution of National Geoparks is wide. The geographic imbalance in their distribution across regions and types of National Geoparks is obvious, with 13 clustered belts, including Tianshan-Altaishan Mountain, Lesser Higgnan-Changbai, Western Bohai Sea, Taihangshan Mountain, Shandong, Qilianshan-Qinling Mountain, Annulus Tibetan Plateau, Dabashan Mountain, Dabieshan Mountain, Chongqing-Western Hunan, Nanling Mountain, Wuyishan Mountain, Southeastern Coastal, of which the National Geoparks number is 180, accounting for 82.57%. 4) Spatial distribution of National Geoparks coincide with latitudinal tectonic zone and longitude tectonic zone of geological structure features, which is consistent with the areas around the Pacific Rim of volcanic tectonic zones. The coupling relationships are obvious between the spatial distributional pattern and the natural and geological conditions.
The climate of Carpathian Region in the 20th century based on the original and modified Holdridge life zone system
Authors: Szelepcsényi Zoltán , Breuer Hajnalka , Sümegi Pál
Published: August 2014

The Holdridge life zone system has already been used a number of times for analysing the effects of climate change on vegetation. But a criticism against the method was formulated that it cannot interpret the ecotones (e.g. forest steppe). Thus, in this paper transitional life zones were also determined in the model. Then, both the original and modified life zone systems were applied for the climatic fields of database CRU TS 1.2. Life zone maps were defined in the Carpathian Region (43.5–50.5° N, 15.5–28° E) for each of five 20-year periods between 1901 and 2000. We estimated correctness of the result maps with another vegetation map using Cohen’s Kappa statistic. Finally, temporal changes in horizontal and vertical distribution of life zones were investigated. The coverage of boreal region decreased with 59.46% during the last century, while the warm temperate region became almost two and a half larger (257.36%). The mean centres of those life zones, which were not related to mountains, shifted northward during the investigation period. In case of the most abundant life zone types, the average distribution elevation increased. Using the modified model, the potential distribution of forest steppe could be also identified.
Control of Glycosylation-Related Genes by DNA Methylation: the Intriguing Case of the B3GALT5 Gene and Its Distinct Promoters
Authors: Trinchera Marco , Zulueta Aida , Caretti Anna , Dall'Olio Fabio
Published: August 2014

Glycosylation is a metabolic pathway consisting of the enzymatic modification of proteins and lipids through the stepwise addition of sugars that gives rise to glycoconjugates. To determine the full complement of glycoconjugates that cells produce (the glycome), a variety of genes are involved, many of which are regulated by DNA methylation. The aim of the present review is to briefly describe some relevant examples of glycosylation-related genes whose DNA methylation has been implicated in their regulation and to focus on the intriguing case of a glycosyltransferase gene (B3GALT5). Aberrant promoter methylation is frequently at the basis of their modulation in cancer, but in the case of B3GALT5, at least two promoters are involved in regulation, and a complex interplay is reported to occur between transcription factors, chromatin remodelling and DNA methylation of typical CpG islands or even of other CpG dinucleotides. Transcription of the B3GALT5 gene underwent a particular evolutionary fate, so that promoter hypermethylation, acting on one transcript, and hypomethylation of other sequences, acting on the other, cooperate on one gene to obtain full cancer-associated silencing. The findings may also help in unravelling the complex origin of serum CA19.9 antigen circulating in some patients.
Toll-Like Receptor 9 Agonists for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Melisi Davide , Frizziero Melissa , Tamburrino Anna , Zanotto Marco , Carbone Carmine , Piro Geny , Tortora Giampaolo
Published: August 2014

The immune system has acquired increasing importance as a key player in cancer maintenance and growth. Thus, modulating anti-tumor immune mediators has become an attractive strategy for cancer treatment. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) have gradually emerged as potential targets of newer immunotherapies. TLR-9 is preferentially expressed on endosome membranes of B-cells and plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) and is known for its ability to stimulate specific immune reactions through the activation of inflammation-like innate responses. Several synthetic CpG oligonucleotides (ODNs) have been developed as TLR-9 agonists with the aim of enhancing cancer immune surveillance. In many preclinical models, CpG ODNs were found to suppress tumor growth and proliferation both in monotherapy and in addition to chemotherapies or target therapies. TLR-9 agonists have been also tested in several clinical trials in patients with solid tumors. These agents showed good tolerability and usually met activity endpoints in early phase trials. However, they have not yet been demonstrated to significantly impact survival, neither as single agent treatments, nor in combination with chemotherapies or cancer vaccines. Further investigations in larger prospective studies are required.
Regulation of Endoplasmic Reticulum-Associated Protein Degradation (ERAD) by Ubiquitin
Authors: Lemus Leticia , Goder Veit
Published: August 2014

Quality control of protein folding inside the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) includes chaperone-mediated assistance in folding and the selective targeting of terminally misfolded species to a pathway called ER-associated protein degradation, or simply ERAD. Once selected for ERAD, substrates will be transported (back) into the cytosol, a step called retrotranslocation. Although still ill defined, retrotranslocation likely involves a protein conducting channel that is in part formed by specific membrane-embedded E3 ubiquitin ligases. Early during retrotranslocation, reversible self-ubiquitination of these ligases is thought to aid in initiation of substrate transfer across the membrane. Once being at least partially exposed to the cytosol, substrates will become ubiquitinated on the cytosolic side of the ER membrane by the same E3 ubiquitin ligases. Ubiquitin on substrates was originally thought to be a permanent modification that (1) promotes late steps of retrotranslocation by recruiting the energy-providing ATPase Cdc48p/p97 via binding to its associated adaptor proteins and that (2) serves to target substrates to the proteasome. Recently it became evident, however, that the poly-ubiquitin chains (PUCs) on ERAD substrates are often subject to extensive remodeling, or processing, at several stages during ERAD. This review recapitulates the current knowledge and recent findings about PUC processing on ERAD substrates and ubiquitination of ERAD machinery components and discusses their functional consequences.
Discovery in Genetic Skin Disease: The Impact of High Throughput Genetic Technologies
Authors: Maruthappu Thiviyani , Scott Claire , Kelsell David
Published: August 2014

The last decade has seen considerable advances in our understanding of the genetic basis of skin disease, as a consequence of high throughput sequencing technologies including next generation sequencing and whole exome sequencing. We have now determined the genes underlying several monogenic diseases, such as harlequin ichthyosis, Olmsted syndrome, and exfoliative ichthyosis, which have provided unique insights into the structure and function of the skin. In addition, through genome wide association studies we now have an understanding of how low penetrance variants contribute to inflammatory skin diseases such as psoriasis vulgaris and atopic dermatitis, and how they contribute to underlying pathophysiological disease processes. In this review we discuss strategies used to unravel the genes underlying both monogenic and complex trait skin diseases in the last 10 years and the implications on mechanistic studies, diagnostics, and therapeutics.
On the Modeling of Solar-Powered Wireless Sensor Nodes
Authors: Bader Sebastian , Ma Xinyu , Oelmann Bengt
Published: August 2014

Solar energy harvesting allows for wireless sensor networks to be operated over extended periods of time. In order to select an appropriate harvesting architecture and dimension for its components, an effective method for the comparison of system implementations is required. System simulations have the capability to accomplish this in an accurate and efficient manner. In this paper, we evaluate the existing work on solar energy harvesting architectures and common methods for their modeling. An analysis of the existing approaches demonstrates a mismatch between the requirement of the task to be both accurate and efficient and the proposed modeling methods, which are either accurate or efficient. As a result, we propose a data-driven modeling method based on artificial neural networks for further evaluation by the research community. Preliminary results of an initial investigation demonstrate the capability of this method to accurately capture the behavior of a solar energy harvesting architecture, while providing a time-efficient model generation procedure based on system-level data.
Prebiotic RNA Synthesis by Montmorillonite Catalysis
Authors: Jheeta Sohan , Joshi Prakash
Published: August 2014

This review summarizes our recent findings on the role of mineral salts in prebiotic RNA synthesis, which is catalyzed by montmorillonite clay minerals. The clay minerals not only catalyze the synthesis of RNA but also facilitate homochiral selection. Preliminary data of these findings have been presented at the “Horizontal Gene Transfer and the Last Universal Common Ancestor (LUCA)” conference at the Open University, Milton Keynes, UK, 5–6 September 2013. The objective of this meeting was to recognize the significance of RNA in LUCA. We believe that the prebiotic RNA synthesis from its monomers must have been a simple process. As a first step, it may have required activation of the 5'-end of the mononucleotide with a leaving group, e.g., imidazole in our model reaction (Figure 1). Wide ranges of activating groups are produced from HCN under plausible prebiotic Earth conditions. The final step is clay mineral catalysis in the presence of mineral salts to facilitate selective production of functional RNA. Both the clay minerals and mineral salts would have been abundant on early Earth. We have demonstrated that while montmorillonite (pH 7) produced only dimers from its monomers in water, addition of sodium chloride (1 M) enhanced the chain length multifold, as detected by HPLC. The effect of monovalent cations on RNA synthesis was of the following order: Li+ > Na+ > K+. A similar effect was observed with the anions, enhancing catalysis in the following order: Cl− > Br− > I−. The montmorillonite-catalyzed RNA synthesis was not affected by hydrophobic or hydrophilic interactions. We thus show that prebiotic synthesis of RNA from its monomers was a simple process requiring only clay minerals and a small amount of salt.
On The Relationship between Suspended Solids of Different Size, the Observed Boundary Flux and Rejection Values for Membranes Treating a Civil Wastewater Stream
Authors: Stoller Marco , Pulido Javier , Palma Luca
Published: August 2014

Membrane fouling is one of the main issues in membrane processes, leading to a progressive decrease of permeability. High fouling rates strongly reduce the productivity of the membrane plant, and negatively affect the surviving rate of the membrane modules, especially when real wastewater is treated. On the other hand, since selectivity must meet certain target requirements, fouling may lead to unexpected selectivity improvements due to the formation of an additional superficial layer formed of foulants and that act like a selective secondary membrane layer. In this case, a certain amount of fouling may be profitable to the point where selectivity targets were reached and productivity is not significantly affected. In this work, the secondary clarifier of a step sludge recirculation bioreactor treating municipal wastewater was replaced by a membrane unit, aiming at recovering return sludge and producing purified water. Fouling issues of such a system were checked by boundary flux measurements. A simple model for the description of the observed productivity and selectivity values as a function of membrane fouling is proposed.
Carbon Partitioning in Green Algae (Chlorophyta) and the Enolase Enzyme
Authors: Polle Jürgen , Neofotis Peter , Huang Andy , Chang William , Sury Kiran , Wiech Eliza
Published: August 2014

The exact mechanisms underlying the distribution of fixed carbon within photoautotrophic cells, also referred to as carbon partitioning, and the subcellular localization of many enzymes involved in carbon metabolism are still unknown. In contrast to the majority of investigated green algae, higher plants have multiple isoforms of the glycolytic enolase enzyme, which are differentially regulated in higher plants. Here we report on the number of gene copies coding for the enolase in several genomes of species spanning the major classes of green algae. Our genomic analysis of several green algae revealed the presence of only one gene coding for a glycolytic enolase [EC 4.2.1.11]. Our predicted cytosolic localization would require export of organic carbon from the plastid to provide substrate for the enolase and subsequent re-import of organic carbon back into the plastids. Further, our comparative sequence study of the enolase and its 3D-structure prediction may suggest that the N-terminal extension found in green algal enolases could be involved in regulation of the enolase activity. In summary, we propose that the enolase represents one of the crucial regulatory bottlenecks in carbon partitioning in green algae.
Maslinic Acid, a Natural Phytoalexin-Type Triterpene from Olives — A Promising Nutraceutical?
Authors: Lozano-Mena Glòria , Sánchez-González Marta , Juan M. , Planas Joana
Published: August 2014

Maslinic acid is a pentacyclic triterpene found in a variety of natural sources, ranging from herbal remedies used in traditional Asian medicine to edible vegetables and fruits present in the Mediterranean diet. In recent years, several studies have proved that maslinic acid exerts a wide range of biological activities, i.e. antitumor, antidiabetic, antioxidant, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, antiparasitic and growth-stimulating. Experimental models used for the assessment of maslinic acid effects include established cell lines, which have been often used to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action, and also animal models of different disorders, which have confirmed the effects of the triterpene in vivo. Overall, and supported by the lack of adverse effects in mice, the results provide evidence of the potential of maslinic acid as a nutraceutical, not only for health promotion, but also as a therapeutic adjuvant in the treatment of several disorders.
Active Components with Inhibitory Activities on IFN-γ/STAT1 and IL-6/STAT3 Signaling Pathways from Caulis Trachelospermi
Authors: Liu Xiao-Ting , Wang Zhe-Xing , Yang Yu , Wang Lin , Sun Ruo-Feng , Zhao Yi-Min , Yu Neng-Jiang
Published: August 2014

Initial investigation for new active herbal extract with inhibiting activity on JAK/STAT signaling pathway revealed that the extract of Caulis Trachelospermi, which was separated by 80% alcohol extraction and subsequent HP-20 macroporous resin column chromatography, was founded to strongly inhibit IFN-γ-induced STAT1-responsive luciferase activity (IFN-γ/STAT1) with IC50 value of 2.43 μg/mL as well as inhibiting IL-6-induced STAT3-responsive luciferase activity (IL-6/STAT3) with IC50 value of 1.38 μg/mL. Subsequent study on its active components led to the isolation and identification of two new dibenzylbutyrolactone lignans named 4-demethyltraxillaside (1) and nortrachelogenin 4-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (2), together with six known compounds. The lignan compounds 1–4 together with other lignan compounds isolated in previous study were tested the activities on IFN-γ/STAT1 and IL-6/STAT3 pathways. The following result showed that the main components trachelogenin and arctigenin had corresponding activities on IFN-γ/STAT1 pathway with IC50 values of 3.14 μM and 9.46 μM as well as trachelogenin, arctigenin and matairesinol strongly inhibiting IL-6/STAT3 pathway with IC50 values of 3.63 μM, 6.47 μM and 2.92 μM, respectively.
A Thermally Annealed Mach-Zehnder Interferometer for High Temperature Measurement
Authors: Feng Zhongyao , Li Jiacheng , Qiao Xueguang , Li Ling , Yang Hangzhou , Hu Manli
Published: August 2014

An in-fiber Mach-Zehnder interferometer (MZI) for high temperature measurement is proposed and experimentally demonstrated. The device is constructed of a piece of thin-core fiber (TCF) sandwiched between two short sections of multimode fiber (MMF), i.e., a MMF-TCF-MMF structure. A well-defined interference spectrum is obtained owing to the core-mismatch, and the interference dips are sensitive to the ambient temperature. The experimental results show that the proposed interferometer is capable of high temperature measurement up to 875 °C with a sensitivity of 92 pm/°C over repeated measurements. The explored wavelength drop point may limit the measurement range, which can be improved by repeated thermal annealing.
Dual-Element Transducer with Phase-Inversion for Wide Depth of Field in High-Frequency Ultrasound Imaging
Authors: Jeong Jong
Published: August 2014

In high frequency ultrasound imaging (HFUI), the quality of focusing is deeply related to the length of the depth of field (DOF). In this paper, a phase-inversion technique implemented by a dual-element transducer is proposed to enlarge the DOF. The performance of the proposed method was numerically demonstrated by using the ultrasound simulation program called Field-II. A simulated dual-element transducer was composed of a disc- and an annular-type elements, and its aperture was concavely shaped to have a confocal point at 6 mm. The area of each element was identical in order to provide same intensity at the focal point. The outer diameters of the inner and the outer elements were 2.1 mm and 3 mm, respectively. The center frequency of each element was 40 MHz and the f-number (focal depth/aperture size) was two. When two input signals with 0° and 180° phases were applied to inner and outer elements simultaneously, a multi-focal zone was generated in the axial direction. The total −6 dB DOF, i.e., sum of two −6 dB DOFs in the near and far field lobes, was 40% longer than that of the conventional single element transducer. The signal to noise ratio (SNR) was increased by about two times, especially in the far field. The point and cyst phantom simulation were conducted and their results were identical to that of the beam pattern simulation. Thus, the proposed scheme may be a potential method to improve the DOF and SNR in HFUI.
New Developments in the Treatment of Pediatric Allergic Rhinitis and Conjunctivitis
Authors: Lierl Michelle B.
Published: August 2014

The primary care physician is the first line of treatment for allergic rhinitis, which affects approximately one-fourth of children in the United States. There is an increasing trend toward self-management by patients or parents due to high-deductible insurance plans and the over-the-counter availability of allergy medications. The primary care physician can offer guidance on appropriate selection of medications and potential adverse effects. Vitamin D deficiency has been proposed as a potential contributing factor in patients with allergic diseases, and studies are underway to determine whether supplementation with vitamin D is helpful for these conditions. Sublingual immunotherapy has recently received US Food and Drug Administration approval for grass and ragweed allergens; many children will be interested in this alternative to allergy shots. The relative advantages and disadvantages of sublingual vs subcutaneous immunotherapy are discussed.

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2014;43(8):e192–e200.]
Reconstruction of Neglected Patellar Tendon Ruptures Using the Quadriceps Graft
Authors: Gomes João Luiz Ellera , de Oliveira Alves Jairo André , Zimmermann José Mauro
Published: August 2014

Several techniques using different grafts have been described for reconstruction of the patellar tendon after a neglected rupture. Retraction of the quadriceps tendon may compromise repair integrity due to progressive stretching of the graft. The authors present a surgical technique using the central one-third of the quadriceps tendon. This is supported by the fact that the resistance to traction of this segment of the quadriceps tendon equals that of a double-looped semitendinosus graft and that the harvesting of this specific graft promotes muscle inhibition, thus protecting the reconstruction during the recovery period. [
Orthopedics
. 2014; 37(8):527–529.]
Hypomethylation at the Regulatory T Cell–Specific Demethylated Region in CD25hi T Cells Is Decoupled from FOXP3 Expression at the Inflamed Site in Childhood Arthritis
Authors: Bending David , Pesenacker Anne M. , Ursu Simona , Wu Qiong , Lom Hannah , Thirugnanabalan Balathas , Wedderburn Lucy R.
Published: August 2014

The maintenance of FOXP3 expression in CD25hi regulatory T cells (Tregs) is crucial to the control of inflammation and essential for successful Treg transfer therapies. Coexpression of CD25 and FOXP3 in combination with a hypomethylated region within the FOXP3 gene, called the Treg-specific demethylated region (TSDR), is considered the hallmark of stable Tregs. The TSDR is an epigenetic motif that is important for stable FOXP3 expression and is used as a biomarker to measure Treg lineage commitment. In this study, we report that, unlike in peripheral blood, CD4+ T cell expression of CD25 and FOXP3 is frequently dissociated at the inflamed site in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, which led us to question the stability of human Tregs in chronic inflammatory environments. We describe a novel CD4+CD127loCD25hi human T cell population that exhibits extensive TSDR and promoter demethylation in the absence of stable FOXP3 expression. This population expresses high levels of CTLA-4 and can suppress T conventional cell proliferation in vitro. These data collectively suggest that this population may represent a chronically activated FOXP3lo Treg population. We show that these cells have defects in IL-2 signaling and reduced expression of a deubiquitinase important for FOXP3 stability. Clinically, the proportions of these cells within the CD25hi T cell subset are increased in patients with the more severe courses of disease. Our study demonstrates, therefore, that hypomethylation at the TSDR can be decoupled from FOXP3 expression in human T cells and that environment-specific breakdown in FOXP3 stability may compromise the resolution of inflammation in juvenile idiopathic arthritis.
Relationship between Urinary Concentrations of Nine Water-soluble Vitamins and their Vitamin Intakes in Japanese Adult Males
Authors: Shibata Katsumi , Hirose Junko , Fukuwatari Tsutomu
Published: August 2014

Excess water-soluble vitamins are thought to be eliminated in the urine. We have reported a strong relationship between water-soluble vitamin intake and urinary excretion in females. The relationship, however, is not well understood in males. In the present experiment, 10 Japanese male subjects were given a standard Japanese diet for the first week. The subjects remained on the same diet, and a synthesized water-soluble vitamin mixture containing one time the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) for Japanese was given for the second week, three times the DRIs for the third week, and six times the DRIs for the fourth week. Twenty-four-hour urine samples were collected each week. Urinary excretion levels for seven of the nine water-soluble vitamin levels, excluding vitamin B12 and folate, increased linearly and sharply in a dose-dependent manner. These results suggest that measuring urinary water-soluble vitamins can be good nutritional markers for assessing vitamin intakes in humans.
Feeding of Young Children During Diarrhea: Caregivers' Intended Practices and Perceptions
Authors: Pantenburg Birte , Ochoa Theresa J. , Ecker Lucie , Ruiz Joaquim
Published: August 2014

Childhood diarrhea is an important cause of malnutrition, which can be worsened when caretakers limit nutritional support. We queried 390 caregivers and their children in a peri-urban community in Lima, Peru regarding general perceptions of feeding and feeding practices during diarrhea. Overall, 22.1% of caregivers perceived feeding during diarrhea to be harmful. At baseline, 71.9% of caregivers would discontinue normal feeding or give less food. Most would withhold milk, eggs, and meats. Approximately 40% of caregivers would withhold vegetables and fruits. A pilot educational intervention was performed to improve feeding during diarrhea. At follow-up survey 3 months later, none of the caregivers would recommend withholding food. Only 23.2% would recommend discontinuing normal feeding and 1.8% perceived food to be damaging. Misperceptions of the role of feeding during diarrhea pose a significant health risk for children, but a simple educational intervention might have a major impact on these perceptions and practices.
Inadequacy of IgM Antibody Tests for Diagnosis of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
Authors: McQuiston Jennifer H. , Wiedeman Caleb , Singleton Joseph , Carpenter L. Rand , McElroy Kristina , Mosites Emily , Chung Ida , Kato Cecilia , Morris Kevin , Moncayo Abelardo C. , Porter Susan , Dunn John
Published: August 2014

Among 13 suspected Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) cases identified through an enhanced surveillance program in Tennessee, antibodies to Rickettsia rickettsii were detected in 10 (77%) patients using a standard indirect immunofluorescent antibody (IFA) assay. Immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies were observed for 6 of 13 patients (46%) without a corresponding development of IgG, and for 3 of 10 patients (30%) at least 1 year post-onset. However, recent infection with a spotted fever group rickettsiae could not be confirmed for any patient, based on a lack of rising antibody titers in properly timed acute and convalescent serologic specimens, and negative findings by polymerase chain reaction testing. Case definitions used in national surveillance programs lack specificity and may capture cases that do not represent current rickettsial infections. Use of IgM antibodies should be reconsidered as a basis for diagnosis and public health reporting of RMSF and other spotted fever group rickettsiae in the United States.