bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Depression Among Last-Year High School Students in Vientiane, Capital City of Lao PDR
Authors: Phanthavong Pinkham , Naphayvong Philaysak , Reinharz Daniel
Published: June 2013

In spite of being a major public health issue, no data on depression in young people exist in Laos. Decision makers are therefore poorly equipped to define the degree of prioritization of this pathology among their preoccupations. This study aimed at estimating the prevalence of depression among last-year high schools students and exploring some of its determinants with a qualitative approach. The quantitative component was based on a survey of a representative sample consisting of 210 students studying in 30 schools in the capital city, Vientiane, using the Beck Depression Inventory validated in the Lao language. The qualitative component was based on interviews with 5 nondepressive and 5 depressive students. Clinical depression prevalence was 24%. Depressed students were aware of the effectiveness of available medication and its importance in controlling the disease. The other students had little knowledge about the disease and how to handle it.
Running in circles or moving along lines: Conceptualization of musical elements in sighted and blind children
Authors: Antović Mihailo , Bennett Austin , Turner Mark
Published: June 2013

In the present study, we address the perceptual basis for developing abstract concepts by investigating if there are any differences in the way sighted and blind 10-year-olds conceptualize some basic musical relations. Thirty-four sighted and nine blind US elementary school students (seven congenitally blind) were exposed to 10 diametrically-opposed musical stimuli (a high and low tone, a quick and slow succession of pitches, a major and minor chord, and so on) and asked to verbally describe what the first and what the second part of the sequence sounded like. Upon transcription, their verbalizations were classified into higher-order conceptual categories. Distributions of responses so grouped were then compared. Results support the theoretical position that metaphorization is the principal mechanism in conceptualizing musical elements, and suggest a preference for visuo-spatial descriptions of the sequences. While sighted children’s verbalizations seemed more referential and took less time to produce overall, the conceptual categories in the two groups reveal no differences. We suggest three possible explanations for this result: (1) the studied concepts might be more abstractly spatial, rather than visually-grounded, for both populations; (2) the concepts might derive from visuo-spatial stimulation for the sighted, and more generally embodied experience in the blind, which however produces the same linguistic output; (3) the concepts might be visuo-spatial in the sighted, and the blind could have adopted the terminology upon hearing it from the sighted, irrespective of their own sensory experience.
Creating and Using a Database on Holland’s Theory and Practical Tools
Authors: Foutch Haley , McHugh Elizabeth Ruff , Bertoch Sara C. , Reardon Robert C.
Published: June 2013

Holland’s RIASEC (Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional) career theory is generally recognized as one of the most important and influential in the field of career development and vocational psychology. We examined data that might verify such an observation, and we used bibliographic research tools to identify all of the publications from 1953 to 2011 on this theory. We categorized the number of citations into five areas: (a) application of the theory in practice, (b) research and practice directed to specific populations (e.g., K–12, age, occupation), (c) tools or instruments operationalizing the theory, (d) validity and efficacy of RIASEC theory, and (e) diverse populations studied in terms of ethnicity, disability, and status. We located a total of 1,970 reference citations to Holland’s theory and applications during the 58-year period, and this article describes the methods, findings, and implications of this research.
Reframing the Narrative of the Battered Women’s Movement
Authors: Arnold Gretchen , Ake Jami
Published: June 2013

Many claim that the battered women’s movement has been co-opted and depoliticized. We argue that this narrative of decline should be reframed as one of continual growth that has incorporated evolving feminist frameworks. We show how the movement’s first generation of activists has learned from its mistakes and continues to challenge systems that fail survivors of abuse. In addition, a second generation of activists, many of whom are minority women, has created new organizations and new ways to practice intersectionality. We conclude that each strand within the movement brings complementary strengths that can prepare it to meet future challenges.
Music-games: A case study of their impact
Authors: Cassidy Gianna G. , Paisley Anna M. J.M.
Published: June 2013

Music-games present a highly pervasive new platform to create, perform, appreciate and transmit music through peer and online communities (e.g., Peppler, Downton, Lindsay, & Hay, 2011). While learners are increasingly engaged with such digital music participation outside the classroom, evidence indicates learners are increasingly disengaged with formal music education (e.g., Abril & Gault, 2008; Dillon, 2003; Lamont & Maton, 2008). The challenge for music educators is to utilize digital music participation as a tool to create new opportunities to inspire and engage learners with music in formal and informal learning contexts (see Hargreaves, Marshall, & North, 2003). The music-game synergy presents a unique, yet relatively untapped, platform to investigate the processes and outcomes of both music and video game participation in a comprehensive context. On one hand, previous research highlights the power of music education to enrich intellectual, social and personal development (e.g., Hallam, 2010), while on the other a growing body of work highlights the educational potential of digital-games to scaffold and enrich learning (e.g., Wastiau, Kearney, & Van den Berghe, 2009). This warrants investigation of the potential of game-based technology to promote engagement with music, and the wider benefits of music-game participation in the lives of learners. In this light, we present a single exploratory case study of a learner’s encounter with Rock Band 3, addressing the learner’s attitudes toward music-games and the music-game experience. It is asserted that music-games are a valuable vehicle to connect formal and informal music participation in the 21st century, embodying fundamental musical concepts in gameplay and authenticating formal participation to the wider musical world of the learner.
The role of personalized medicine in metastatic colorectal cancer: an evolving landscape
Authors: Moorcraft Sing Yu , Smyth Elizabeth C. , Cunningham David
Published: June 2013

Advances in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer have led to an improvement in survival from 12 months with fluorouracil monotherapy to approximately 2 years. This is partly as a result of the addition of irinotecan and oxaliplatin, but is also due to the use of monoclonal antibodies against the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and antiangiogenic drugs such as bevacizumab. However, there are significant molecular differences between tumours which can affect both prognosis and response to treatment. Personalized medicine aims to tailor treatment according to the characteristics of the individual patient and is now a clinical reality as testing for KRAS mutations to guide treatment with the anti-EGFR monoclonal antibodies cetuximab and panitumumab is now part of routine clinical practice. However, not all patients who are KRAS wild type respond to anti-EGFR therapy and a validated biomarker for antiangiogenic therapy is still lacking. Therefore, other biomarkers are needed to assist with predicting response to both existing drugs as well as to drugs currently under investigation. This review summarizes the molecular biology of colorectal cancer, focusing on the genetic features that are currently most clinically relevant. Current and emerging biomarkers are reviewed along with their roles in selecting patients for targeted treatment with currently licensed therapies and drugs being evaluated in clinical trials. The value of predictive biomarkers of chemosensitivity and potential future treatment strategies are also discussed.
Multi-disciplinary approach for management of refractory benign occlusive esophageal strictures
Authors: Singhal Shashideep , Hasan Syed S. , Cohen Dan C. , Pfanner Timothy , Reznik Scott , Duddempudi Sushil
Published: June 2013

Background:

Benign occlusive esophageal strictures create substantial morbidity and have poor surgical outcomes. Various endoscopic techniques have been described to manage these strictures. The challenge remains to maintain adequate long-term esophageal patency and to limit the need for serial endoscopic dilations. Little has been reported regarding the management of these benign occlusive strictures.

Methods:

We report a case series describing the management of technically challenging benign occlusive esophageal strictures. Three patients with occlusive esophageal strictures of differing etiologies were treated using a variety of endoscopic methodologies.

Results:

The first patient sustained a caustic oropharyngeal injury resulting in a proximal esophageal stricture which was treated by using a combined antegrade retrograde dilation (CARD) with argon plasma coagulation (APC) and needle knife dissection resulting in the successful recanalization and patency of his stricture. A second patient developed an esophageal stricture following radiotherapy, and was treated with a CARD procedure and serial balloon dilations in combination with APC to successfully achieve esophageal luminal patency. The final patient acquired an occlusive esophageal stricture after treatment for thyroid cancer which was treated with endoscopic needle knife dissection followed by serial balloon dilations to successfully manage this stricture.

Conclusions:

Occlusive esophageal strictures pose a difficult challenge to gastroenterologists and little has been reported with regards to their endoscopic management. Using the CARD technique, needle knife dissection and APC, individually or in combination, luminal patency of occlusive esophageal strictures can be accomplished safely with good results.
A global model of avian influenza prediction in wild birds: the importance of northern regions
Authors: Herrick Keiko A , Huettmann Falk , Lindgren Michael A
Published: June 2013

Avian influenza virus (AIV) is enzootic to wild birds, which are its natural reservoir. The virus exhibits a large degree of genetic diversity and most of the isolated strains are of low pathogenicity to poultry. Although AIV is nearly ubiquitous in wild bird populations, highly pathogenic H5N1 subtypes in poultry have been the focus of most modeling efforts. To better understand viral ecology of AIV, a predictive model should 1) include wild birds, 2) include all isolated subtypes, and 3) cover the host’s natural range, unbounded by artificial country borders. As of this writing, there are few large-scale predictive models of AIV in wild birds. We used the Random Forests algorithm, an ensemble data-mining machine-learning method, to develop a global-scale predictive map of AIV, identify important predictors, and describe the environmental niche of AIV in wild bird populations. The model has an accuracy of 0.79 and identified northern areas as having the highest relative predicted risk of outbreak. The primary niche was described as regions of low annual rainfall and low temperatures. This study is the first global-scale model of low-pathogenicity avian influenza in wild birds and underscores the importance of largely unstudied northern regions in the persistence of AIV.
Current progress in dengue vaccines
Authors: Wan Shu-Wen , Lin Chiou-Feng , Wang Shuying , Chen Yu-Hung , Yeh Trai-Ming , Liu Hsiao-Sheng , Anderson Robert , Lin Yee-Shin
Published: June 2013

Dengue is one of the most important emerging vector-borne viral diseases. There are four serotypes of dengue viruses (DENV), each of which is capable of causing self-limited dengue fever (DF) or even life-threatening dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) and dengue shock syndrome (DSS). The major clinical manifestations of severe DENV disease are vascular leakage, thrombocytopenia, and hemorrhage, yet the detailed mechanisms are not fully resolved. Besides the direct effects of the virus, immunopathological aspects are also involved in the development of dengue symptoms. Although no licensed dengue vaccine is yet available, several vaccine candidates are under development, including live attenuated virus vaccines, live chimeric virus vaccines, inactivated virus vaccines, and live recombinant, DNA and subunit vaccines. The live attenuated virus vaccines and live chimeric virus vaccines are undergoing clinical evaluation. The other vaccine candidates have been evaluated in preclinical animal models or are being prepared for clinical trials. For the safety and efficacy of dengue vaccines, the immunopathogenic complications such as antibody-mediated enhancement and autoimmunity of dengue disease need to be considered.
Transcriptome analysis reveals unique C4-like photosynthesis and oil body formation in an arachidonic acid-rich microalga Myrmecia incisa Reisigl H4301
Authors: Ouyang Long-Ling , Chen Si-Hong , Li Yan , Zhou Zhi-Gang
Published: June 2013

Background

Arachidonic acid (ArA) is important for human health because it is one of the major components of mammalian brain membrane phospholipids. The interest in ArA inspired the search for a new sustainable source, and the green microalga Myrmecia incisa Reisigl H4301 has been found a potential ArA-producer due to a high content of intracellular ArA. To gain more molecular information about metabolism pathways, including the biosynthesis of ArA in the non-model microalga, a transcriptomic analysis was performed.

Results

The 454 pyrosequencing generated 371,740 high-quality reads, which were assembled into 51,908 unique sequences consisting of 22,749 contigs and 29,159 singletons. A total of 11,873 unique sequences were annotated through BLAST analysis, and 3,733 were assigned to Gene Ontology (GO) categories. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis uncovered a C4-like photosynthesis pathway in M. incisa. The biosynthesis pathways of lipid particularly those of ArA and triacylglycerol (TAG) were analyzed in detail, and TAG was proposed to be accumulated in oil bodies in the cytosol with the help of caleosin or oil globule-associated proteins. In addition, the carotenoid biosynthesis pathways are discussed.

Conclusion

This transcriptomic analysis of M. incisa enabled a global understanding of mechanisms involved in photosynthesis, de novo biosynthesis of ArA, metabolism of carotenoids, and accumulation of TAG in M. incisa. These findings provided a molecular basis for the research and possibly economic exploitation of this ArA-rich microalga.
Web-based visual analysis for high-throughput genomics
Authors: Goecks Jeremy , Eberhard Carl , Too Tomithy ,   The Galaxy Team, Nekrutenko Anton , Taylor James
Published: June 2013

Background

Visualization plays an essential role in genomics research by making it possible to observe correlations and trends in large datasets as well as communicate findings to others. Visual analysis, which combines visualization with analysis tools to enable seamless use of both approaches for scientific investigation, offers a powerful method for performing complex genomic analyses. However, there are numerous challenges that arise when creating rich, interactive Web-based visualizations/visual analysis applications for high-throughput genomics. These challenges include managing data flow from Web server to Web browser, integrating analysis tools and visualizations, and sharing visualizations with colleagues.

Results

We have created a platform that simplifies the creation of Web-based visualization/visual analysis applications for high-throughput genomics. This platform provides components that make it simple to efficiently query very large datasets, draw common representations of genomic data, integrate with analysis tools, and share or publish fully interactive visualizations. Using this platform, we have created a Circos-style genome-wide viewer, a generic scatter plot for correlation analysis, an interactive phylogenetic tree, a scalable genome browser for next-generation sequencing data, and an application for systematically exploring tool parameter spaces to find good parameter values. All visualizations are interactive and fully customizable. The platform is integrated with the Galaxy (http://galaxyproject.org) genomics workbench, making it easy to integrate new visual applications into Galaxy.

Conclusions

Visualization and visual analysis play an important role in high-throughput genomics experiments, and approaches are needed to make it easier to create applications for these activities. Our framework provides a foundation for creating Web-based visualizations and integrating them into Galaxy. Finally, the visualizations we have created using the framework are useful tools for high-throughput genomics experiments.
The histone deacetylase inhibitor SAHA acts in synergism with fenretinide and doxorubicin to control growth of rhabdoid tumor cells
Authors: Kerl Kornelius , Ries David , Unland Rebecca , Borchert Christiane , Moreno Natalia , Hasselblatt Martin , Jürgens Heribert , Kool Marcel , Görlich Dennis , Eveslage Maria , Jung Manfred , Meisterernst Michael , Frühwald Michael
Published: June 2013

Background

Rhabdoid tumors are highly aggressive malignancies affecting infants and very young children. In many instances these tumors are resistant to conventional type chemotherapy necessitating alternative approaches.

Methods

Proliferation assays (MTT), apoptosis (propidium iodide/annexin V) and cell cycle analysis (DAPI), RNA expression microarrays and western blots were used to identify synergism of the HDAC (histone deacetylase) inhibitor SAHA with fenretinide, tamoxifen and doxorubicin in rhabdoidtumor cell lines.

Results

HDAC1 and HDAC2 are overexpressed in primary rhabdoid tumors and rhabdoid tumor cell lines. Targeting HDACs in rhabdoid tumors induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. On the other hand HDAC inhibition induces deregulated gene programs (MYCC-, RB program and the stem cell program) in rhabdoid tumors. These programs are in general associated with cell cycle progression. Targeting these activated pro-proliferative genes by combined approaches of HDAC-inhibitors plus fenretinide, which inhibits cyclinD1, exhibit strong synergistic effects on induction of apoptosis. Furthermore, HDAC inhibition sensitizes rhabdoid tumor cell lines to cell death induced by chemotherapy.

Conclusion

Our data demonstrate that HDAC inhibitor treatment in combination with fenretinide or conventional chemotherapy is a promising tool for the treatment of chemoresistant rhabdoid tumors.
Video-assisted radiofrequency ablation for pleural disseminated non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Shen Yaxing , Zhong Ming , Jiang Wei , Fan Hong , Wang Hao , Wang Qun
Published: June 2013

Background

Clinically, some patients would have false-negative results in the diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with pleural dissemination, losing their chances of prolonged survival from surgery. Hence, this study aimed to clarify the benefit of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for NSCLC with malignant pleural dissemination that is detected during thoracoscopic lobectomy.

Methods

From July 2006, we started the application of RFA in combination with talc pleurodesis (R-TP) for pleural disseminated NSCLCs diagnosed by thoracoscopy. Patients who underwent TP alone (from December 30, 2005 to June 30, 2006) were retrospectively evaluated in compared with R-TP (from July 1, 2006 to June 30, 2008). Clinical features were collected and compared to identify the difference in clinical outcomes between R-TP and TP alone. After discharge (three months after surgery), tumor response to treatment was assessed, and follow-up results were recorded to determine the perioperative and mid-time survival difference between the two groups.

Results

In our study, the two groups were comparable in age, sex, performance status (PS) score, tumor location, and histological diagnosis. The incidence rate of intraoperative pleural dissemination was 5.98%, as diagnosed by video-assisted thoracoscopy. All the surgeries were completed without conversion to open thoracotomy. Except for the longer operation duration in the R-TP group (p < 0.001), there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of surgical features. Postoperatively, no mortality occurred in either group during hospital stay; however, two patients from the R-TP group developed complications (9.52%). The complete and partial remission rates in the R-TP group were 80% and 10%, respectively, and the stabilization rate was 10%. After the three-year follow-up, the overall survival (OS) rates of the R-TP and TP groups were 14.29% and 0%, respectively. The median survival and median tumor progression-free survival (PFS) periods were longer in the R-TP group than in the TP group (OS: 19 months versus 12.5 months, p = 0.045; PFS: 9.5 months versus 5.5 months, p = 0.028).

Conclusions

The introduction of RFA to TP offered survival benefits to pleural disseminated NSCLC patients, making it a potential alternative palliative treatment for local tumor. However, multicenter randomized controlled trials are required to confirm these findings.
Mitochondrial metabolism of sexual and asexual blood stages of the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: MacRae James I , Dixon Matthew WA , Dearnley Megan K , Chua Hwa H , Chambers Jennifer M , Kenny Shannon , Bottova Iveta , Tilley Leann , McConville Malcolm J
Published: June 2013

Background

The carbon metabolism of the blood stages of Plasmodium falciparum, comprising rapidly dividing asexual stages and non-dividing gametocytes, is thought to be highly streamlined, with glycolysis providing most of the cellular ATP. However, these parasitic stages express all the enzymes needed for a canonical mitochondrial tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, and it was recently proposed that they may catabolize glutamine via an atypical branched TCA cycle. Whether these stages catabolize glucose in the TCA cycle and what is the functional significance of mitochondrial metabolism remains unresolved.

Results

We reassessed the central carbon metabolism of P. falciparum asexual and sexual blood stages, by metabolically labeling each stage with 13C-glucose and 13C-glutamine, and analyzing isotopic enrichment in key pathways using mass spectrometry. In contrast to previous findings, we found that carbon skeletons derived from both glucose and glutamine are catabolized in a canonical oxidative TCA cycle in both the asexual and sexual blood stages. Flux of glucose carbon skeletons into the TCA cycle is low in the asexual blood stages, with glutamine providing most of the carbon skeletons, but increases dramatically in the gametocyte stages. Increased glucose catabolism in the gametocyte TCA cycle was associated with increased glucose uptake, suggesting that the energy requirements of this stage are high. Significantly, whereas chemical inhibition of the TCA cycle had little effect on the growth or viability of asexual stages, inhibition of the gametocyte TCA cycle led to arrested development and death.

Conclusions

Our metabolomics approach has allowed us to revise current models of P. falciparum carbon metabolism. In particular, we found that both asexual and sexual blood stages utilize a conventional TCA cycle to catabolize glucose and glutamine. Gametocyte differentiation is associated with a programmed remodeling of central carbon metabolism that may be required for parasite survival either before or after uptake by the mosquito vector. The increased sensitivity of gametocyte stages to TCA-cycle inhibitors provides a potential target for transmission-blocking drugs.
Molecular characterization of human adenovirus infection in Thailand, 2009–2012
Authors: Sriwanna Punsinee , Chieochansin Thaweesak , Vuthitanachot Chanpim , Vuthitanachot Viboonsuk , Theamboonlers Apiradee , Poovorawan Yong
Published: June 2013

Background

Human adenovirus (HAdV) can cause a wide spectrum of human diseases worldwide.

Methods

Using PCR and sequence analysis, we investigated HAdV infection prevalence in the Thai population for four years from January 2009 to December 2012. We collected Nasopharyngeal swab/aspirate (NP) specimens from patients in Bangkok, Khon Kaen, and Nakhon Si Thammarat province and fecal specimens only from Bangkok and Khon Kaen province.

Results

We observed HAdV infection in 1.04% (82/7,921) of NP samples and in 5.84% (76/1,301) of fecal specimens. HAdV-B3 (32%) and HAdV-C1 (31%) were the genotypes most commonly associated with NP specimens followed by HAdV-C2 (13%) and HAdV-C5 (12%). In fecal specimens, we found that 25% harbored HAdV-F41 followed by HAdV-C1 (18%), HAdV-C2 (16%), and HAdV-B3 (13%). Out of all population subsets, children below the age of 3 years were the most likely to be HAdV positive (63.29%). In addition, HAdV infection occurred throughout the year without a seasonal distribution pattern, although HAdV infection of NP samples peaked from January-April while HAdV infection peaked from January to March and then again from May to July in fecal samples.

Conclusions

This study has for the first time reported the HAdV infection rate in Thai NP and fecal specimens from 2009–2012. We observed that HAdV-B3 and HAdV-C1 were commonly found in NP specimens, and that HAdV-F41 was the most prevalence in fecal specimens in Thailand during the study period.
Purifying synthetic high-strength wastewater by microalgae chlorella vulgaris under various light emitting diode wavelengths and intensities
Authors: Ge Zhigang , Zhang Hui , Zhang Yuejin , Yan Cheng , Zhao Yongjun
Published: June 2013

The high-strength wastewater is now well known as a threat to the natural water since it is highly possible to arouse water eutrophication or algal blooms. The effects of various light emitting diode wavelengths and intensities on the microalgae biological wastewater treatment system was studied in this research. The various nutrient removals and economic efficiencies represented similar variation trends, and these variations under both high C and N loading treatments were similar too. The order for microalgae C. vulgaris reproduction in terms of dry weight and nutrient removal efficiency both were red > white > yellow > blue, under high carbon and nitrogen loading treatments, indicating that the red light was the optimum light wavelength. Furthermore, considering the optimal light intensity in terms of nutrient removal efficiency was 2500 and 2000 μmol/m2•s, while in terms of economic efficiency was 1000, 1500 and 2000 μmol/m2•s. Therefore, the optimum light intensity was found to be 2000 μmol/m2•s. In addition, the optimal experimental illumination time was determined as 120 h. The Chlorella vulgaris microalgae biological wastewater treatment system utilized in this research was able to purify the high-strength carbon and nitrogen wastewater effectively under optimum light wavelength and intensity.
Amoxicillin separation from pharmaceutical wastewater by high permeability polysulfone nanofiltration membrane
Authors: Derakhsheshpoor Reza , Homayoonfal Maryam , Akbari Ahmad , Mehrnia Mohammad Reza
Published: June 2013

In this study, high permeability flat sheet polysulfone nanofiltration membranes were prepared for amoxicillin (AMX) recovery from pharmaceutical wastewater. Membrane fabrication includes two steps: raw ultrafiltration membrane synthesis by phase inversion method and nanaofiltration membrane synthesis by surface photopolymerization. Raw ultrafiltration membranes were synthesized using different molecular weights of polyethylene glycol (PEG) as pore former and different coagulation bath temperatures (CBTs). The synthesized ultrafiltration membranes were modified using UV-assisted polymerization technique and their performance in the separation of AMX at different pHs, were studied. The results showed that the more irradiation time, the smaller surface pore size. Moreover, the membranes made with higher molecular weight of PEG and coagulation bath temperatures were more susceptible for UV-modification at these conditions; fabricated membranes had higher flux as well as relatively high AMX separation. Moreover, pH enhancement increased AMX rejection by 85%. The effect of irradiation on membrane surface morphology was studied by SEM surface images and the morphological effects of pore former and coagulation bath temperatures on membrane structure were confirmed by SEM cross section images. A fairly comprehensive discussion about the effects of PEG, coagulation bath temperature and irradiation time on membrane structure and AMX recovery performance was represented in this study.
Nutrition research in the first decade of 21st century in Iran: the necessity of road Map
Authors: Khoshnevisan Farnaz , Hajifaraji Majid , Salarkia Nahid , Aminpour Azadeh , Rassi Maryam , Abbassgholi Nargess , Tarighi Payam , Shakiba Madjid
Published: June 2013

Due to important role of nutrition research in understanding of relevant health subjects and lack of periodic situation analysis of nutrition articles in Iran, this study was conducted to assess nutrition publications in two time intervals of 2001–2005 and 2006–2010 in Farsi scientific journals. A title to title search was performed in all medical, basic science, agricultural and veterinary journals in a 10-year period. All the article titles were placed in techniques, foods, nutritional biochemistry and physiology, nutrition and health, and clinical nutrition subject headings based on Nutrition Abstracts and Reviews Series A (NARA) database. The publication type and the study design were also determined. Statistical analysis was carried out by chi square to test temporal changes. There were 2127 Farsi publications. The original articles consisted 98.1% of the articles. Interventional and survey articles composed 28.1% and 20.8% of the publication types, respectively. Researchers were mostly interested in descriptive articles. Regarding subject, nutrition and health, and clinical nutrition were of the first and second time period interests, respectively. In comparison between the two time periods, regarding subject heading, the proportion of nutrition and health publications showed a significant decline; while, the proportion of clinical nutrition publication showed a remarkable rise. The publication type, subject and study design of the article do not follow coordinated planning and policy making. Therefore, these researches are not efficient enough to solve nutritional problems in our community properly. Planning of the research priorities in the field of food and nutrition with the agreement and participation of all stakeholders is a necessity.
SMART: scalable and modular augmented reality template for rapid development of engineering visualization applications
Authors: Dong Suyang , Kamat Vineet R
Published: June 2013

Background

The visualization of civil infrastructure systems and processes is critical for the validation and communication of computer generated models to decision-makers. Augmented Reality (AR) visualization blends real-world information with graphical 3D models to create informative composite views that are difficult to create or replicate on the computer alone.

Methods

This paper presents a scalable and extensible mobile computing framework that allows users to readily create complex outdoor AR visual applications. The technical challenges of building this reusable framework from the software and hardware perspectives are described.

Results

SMART is a generic and loosely-coupled software computing framework for creating AR visual applications with accurate registration algorithms and visually credible occlusion effects. While SMART is independent of any specific hardware realization, ARMOR is built as a hardware implementation of SMART to test its algorithm correctness and its adaption to engineering applications. In particular, ARMOR is a modular mobile hardware platform designed for user position and orientation tracking, as well as augmented view display.

Conclusion

The framework has been validated in several case studies, including the visualization of underground utilities for excavator control and collision avoidance to demonstrate SMART’s rapid creation of complex AR visual applications.
Combining photogrammetry and robotic total stations to obtain dimensional measurements of temporary facilities in construction field
Authors: Siu Ming-Fung Francis , Lu Ming , AbouRizk Simaan
Published: June 2013

Background

Three-dimensional (3D) modeling and visualization of temporary site facilities is instrumental in revealing potential space conflicts and refining time and cost estimates. This research focuses on implementation of photo-based 3D modeling in a time-dependent, dynamically-changing context.

Methods

We propose a cost-effective modeling technique to obtain dynamic dimension measurements of a moving object. The methodology resulting from integrating photo-based 3D modeling and robotic total station tracking technologies better caters to the application needs of visualization and measurement in construction that are critical to operational safety and structural accuracy. The computational foundation of photogrammetry is first addressed then the modeling procedure and the system design described.

Results

In a module assembly yard, a rigging system being lifted by a mobile crane was identified as the moving object. The length and the length changes of twelve slings on a newly-engineered rigging system at different stateswere measured in order to ensure quality and safety.

Conclusion

The proposed technique relies on utilizing two robotic total stations and three cameras and provides a simple, safe and effective solution to monitor the dimensional changes of a temporary facility in the construction field.
Visualization of CCTV coverage in public building space using BIM technology
Authors: Chen Huan-Ting , Wu Si-Wei , Hsieh Shang-Hsien
Published: June 2013

Background

Nowadays, the use of Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) systems is effective for monitoring traffic, preventing crime, and ensuring safety in many public spaces. However, the effectiveness of CCTV coverage is often achieved through design experience and trial-and-error, instead of being evaluated and visualized using a robust approach.

Methods

Firstly, a method for simulating varifocal CCTV lenses in order to attain different fields of view was developed, allowing real CCTV views to be approximated by adjusting the parametric properties of simulated CCTV cameras in the 3D BIM model. Secondly, an API (Application Programming Interface) plug-in program for a commercially available BIM tool was developed to facilitate the parametric modeling of CCTV systems and the evaluation of the CCTV coverage.

Results

A complete BIM model of an MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) station was chosen as a case study to apply the developed approach to the examination of CCTV coverage. Finally, the overall coverage of the CCTV systems for the MRT station were demonstrated visually and studied in the station's BIM model.

Conclusions

This research has developed a robust visualization approach for evaluating the coverage of CCTV systems in public building spaces. The developed approach is based on Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology and is capable of simulating CCTV systems in a 3D virtual environment in order to evaluate the CCTV coverage.
Exploring the potential of the platelet membrane proteome as a source of peripheral biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Donovan Laura E , Dammer Eric B , Duong Duc M , Hanfelt John J , Levey Allan I , Seyfried Nicholas T , Lah James J
Published: June 2013

Introduction

Peripheral biomarkers to diagnose Alzheimer's disease (AD) have not been established. Given parallels between neuron and platelet biology, we hypothesized platelet membrane-associated protein changes may differentiate patients clinically defined with probable AD from noncognitive impaired controls.

Methods

Purified platelets, confirmed by flow cytometry were obtained from individuals before fractionation by ultracentrifugation. Following a comparison of individual membrane fractions by SDS-PAGE for general proteome uniformity, equal protein weight from the membrane fractions for five representative samples from AD and five samples from controls were pooled. AD and control protein pools were further divided into molecular weight regions by one-dimensional SDS-PAGE, prior to digestion in gel. Tryptic peptides were analyzed by reverse-phase liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Ionized peptide intensities were averaged for each identified protein in the two pools, thereby measuring relative protein abundance between the two membrane protein pools. Log2-transformed ratio (AD/control) of protein abundances fit a normal distribution, thereby permitting determination of significantly changed protein abundances in the AD pool.

Results

We report a comparative analysis of the membrane-enriched platelet proteome between patients with mild to moderate AD and cognitively normal, healthy subjects. A total of 144 proteins were determined significantly altered in the platelet membrane proteome from patients with probable AD. In particular, secretory (alpha) granule proteins were dramatically reduced in AD. Of these, we confirmed significant reduction of thrombospondin-1 (THBS1) in the AD platelet membrane proteome by immunoblotting. There was a high protein-protein connectivity of proteins in other pathways implicated by proteomic changes to the proteins that define secretory granules.

Conclusions

Depletion of secretory granule proteins is consistent with a preponderance of post-activated platelets in circulation in AD. Significantly changed pathways implicate additional AD-related defects in platelet glycoprotein synthesis, lipid homeostasis, amyloidogenic proteins, and regulators of protease activity, many of which may be useful plasma membrane-expressed markers for AD. This study highlights the utility of LC-MS/MS to quantify human platelet membrane proteins and suggests that platelets may serve as a source of blood-based biomarkers in neurodegenerative disease.
Introducing Dynamic Nonlinear Soil-Foundation-Structure Interaction Effects in Displacement-Based Seismic Design
Authors: Paolucci Roberto , Figini Raffaele , Petrini Lorenza
Published: June 2013

An iterative linear-equivalent procedure to take into account nonlinear soil-structure interaction effects in the displacement-based seismic design is presented for the case of shallow foundations. The procedure is based on the use of empirical curves to evaluate the stiffness degradation and the increase of damping ratio as a function of foundation rotation. Iterations are performed to ensure that admissible values of foundation rotations are complied with, in addition to the standard checks on structural displacements and drifts. Some examples of application of the approach to the design of bridge piers are provided. Design results are checked by means of nonlinear dynamic time-history analyses performed by a macro-element-based numerical tool, assuming nonlinear behavior of both structure and soil-foundation system.
A replication-dependent passive mechanism modulates DNA demethylation in mouse primordial germ cells
Authors: Ohno Rika , Nakayama Megumi , Naruse Chie , Okashita Naoki , Takano Osamu , Tachibana Makoto , Asano Masahide , Saitou Mitinori , Seki Yoshiyuki
Published: June 2013

Germline cells reprogramme extensive epigenetic modifications to ensure the cellular totipotency of subsequent generations and to prevent the accumulation of epimutations. Notably, primordial germ cells (PGCs) erase genome-wide DNA methylation and H3K9 dimethylation marks in a stepwise manner during migration and gonadal periods. In this study, we profiled DNA and histone methylation on transposable elements during PGC development, and examined the role of DNA replication in DNA demethylation in gonadal PGCs. CpGs in short interspersed nuclear elements (SINEs) B1 and B2 were substantially demethylated in migrating PGCs, whereas CpGs in long interspersed nuclear elements (LINEs), such as LINE-1, were resistant to early demethylation. By contrast, CpGs in both LINE-1 and SINEs were rapidly demethylated in gonadal PGCs. Four major modifiers of DNA and histone methylation, Dnmt3a, Dnmt3b, Glp and Uhrf1, were actively repressed at distinct stages of PGC development. DNMT1 was localised at replication foci in nascent PGCs, whereas the efficiency of recruitment of DNMT1 into replication foci was severely impaired in gonadal PGCs. Hairpin bisulphite sequencing analysis showed that strand-specific hemi-methylated CpGs on LINE-1 were predominant in gonadal PGCs. Furthermore, DNA demethylation in SINEs and LINE-1 was impaired in Cbx3-deficient PGCs, indicating abnormalities in G1 to S phase progression. We propose that PGCs employ active and passive mechanisms for efficient and widespread erasure of genomic DNA methylation.
An Equilibrium Model of Online Shopping Supply Chain Networks with Service Capacity Investment
Authors: Hu Yihong , Qiang Qiang
Published: June 2013

In this paper we propose an online shopping supply chain network model that includes manufacturers, e-tailers, express service providers, and consumers. Consumers purchase products from e-tailers that can be either delivered by the express service companies or picked up by the customers themselves at certain physical locations, depending on the consumers' preferences on time and cost. In addition, the express service companies can make investments to improve their service quality. We identify the network structure of the problem, derive the equilibrium conditions, and establish the finite-dimensional variational inequality formulation. Theoretical results and numerical examples are presented to provide some managerial insights of the model.
Canine parvovirus: where are we in the 21st Century?
Authors: Bird Louise , Tappin Simon
Published: June 2013

Canine parvovirus (CPV) is still a significant cause of viral enteritis in the dog and associated with high levels of mortality in untreated animals. Viral replication in the intestinal mucosa leads to melaenic and haemorrhagic diarrhoea, which results in hypovolaemic shock. This is followed by progressive sepsis as a result of intestinal bacterial translocation, and neutropenia secondary to viral replication within the bone marrow. Aggressive treatment with intravenous fluid therapy, anti-emetics and antibiosis leads to improvement and recovery in most cases. More aggressive treatment including early nutritional intervention and interferon can improve outcome. Vaccination is protective in the majority of cases, although vaccine failure can occur if there is interference by materially-derived antibodies.
Molecular Combing of DNA: Methods and Applications
Authors: Nazari Zeinab Esmail , Gurevich Leonid
Published: June 2013

First proposed in 1994, molecular combing of DNA is a technique that allowsadsorption and alignment of DNA on the surface with no need for prior modi-fication of the molecule. Since then, many variations of the original methodhave been devised and used in a wide range of applications from genomicstudies to nanoelectronics. While molecular combing has been applied in avariety of DNA-related studies, no comprehensive review has been publishedon different combing methods proposed so far. In this review, the underly-ing mechanisms of molecular combing of DNA are described followed bydiscussion of the main methods in molecular combing as well as its majorapplications in nanotechnology.
Dense Pattern of Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma, a Lesion Easily Confused With Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Rudzinski Erin R. , Teot Lisa A. , Anderson James R. , Moore Julie , Bridge Julia A. , Barr Frederic G. , Gastier-Foster Julie M. , Skapek Stephen X. , Hawkins Douglas S. , Parham David M.
Published: June 2013

Objectives:

To examine whether the frequency of fusion-negative alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMSn) increased coincident with changes in the definition of alveolar histology.

Methods:

We re-reviewed alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS) in the Children’s Oncology Group study D9803, comparing histopathology with fusion status.

Results:

Our review of 255 original ARMS cases (compared with a control group of 38 embryonal rhabdomyosarcomas [ERMS] cases) revealed that many had an ARMS-like densely cellular pattern with cytologic features and myogenin expression more typical of ERMS. Following re-review, 84 (33%) cases of original ARMS were rediagnosed as ERMS. All reclassified ERMS, including dense ERMS, were fusion negative, whereas 82% of confirmed ARMS cases were fusion positive. Total ARMS diagnoses returned to historic rates of 25% to 30% of all rhabdomyosarcomas, and ARMSn decreased from 37% to 18% of ARMS cases. The outcome of reclassified ERMS was similar to confirmed ERMS.

Conclusions:

To address the role of fusion status in risk stratification, pathologists should include both a histologic diagnosis and an evaluation of fusion status for all new ARMS diagnoses.
Successive B-Cell Lymphomas Mostly Reflect Recurrences Rather Than Unrelated Primary Lymphomas
Authors: Geurts-Giele Willemina R. R. , Wolvers-Tettero Ingrid L. M. , Dinjens Winand N. M. , Lam King H. , Langerak Anton W.
Published: June 2013

Objectives:

To address whether successive B-cell lymphomas, diagnosed within a 5- to 15-year interval, are recurrences or unrelated primary lymphomas.

Methods:

Immunoglobulin heavy and κ light chain gene rearrangements were studied using multiplex polymerase chain reaction fragment assays and sequence analysis in 61 patients.

Results:

Clonal patterns of the multiple lymphomas from 36 patients were determined and classified accordingly: 30 recurrences, 2 possible recurrences, 2 different clones with a common origin, and 2 unrelated primary lymphomas.

Conclusions:

Regardless of subtype, 89% to 94% of late B-cell lymphoma relapses were recurrences of the primary tumor. Therefore, routinely investigating the possible clonal relationship between successive lymphomas may not be warranted except for specific lymphoma subtypes such as diffuse large B-cell lymphomas.
Vengeance was his: The post-war cinema of Japan’s Shohei Imamura
Authors: Cardullo Robert
Published: June 2013

Outrageous, insightful and sensuous, the films of Shohei Imamura (1926–2006) are among the greatest glories of post-war Japanese cinema, yet Imamura remains largely unknown outside Japan. It is the explosive, at times anarchic quality of Imamura’s work that makes him appear
‘uncharacteristically Japanese’ when seen in the context of the films of Ozu, Mizoguchi or Kurosawa. Perhaps no other film-maker anywhere has so taken up Godard’s challenge to end the distinction between ‘documentary’ and ‘fiction’ films. Indeed, Imamura
has been referred to as the ‘cultural anthropologist’ of the Japanese cinema. Yet, if anything, Imamura’s films argue against an overly clinical approach to understanding Japan, as they often celebrate the irrational and instinctual aspects of Japanese culture. This article
is an overview of Imamura’s entire career, with emphasis on Vengeance Is Mine (1979), a complex, absorbing study of a cold-blooded killer and Imamura’s greatest commercial as well as critical success.