bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The genomic signature of trait-associated variants
Authors: Kindt Alida S D , Navarro Pau , Semple Colin A M , Haley Chris S
Published: February 2013

Background

Genome-wide association studies have identified thousands of SNP variants associated with hundreds of phenotypes. For most associations the causal variants and the molecular mechanisms underlying pathogenesis remain unknown. Exploration of the underlying functional annotations of trait-associated loci has thrown some light on their potential roles in pathogenesis. However, there are some shortcomings of the methods used to date, which may undermine efforts to prioritize variants for further analyses. Here, we introduce and apply novel methods to rigorously identify annotation classes showing enrichment or depletion of trait-associated variants taking into account the underlying associations due to co-location of different functional annotations and linkage disequilibrium.

Results

We assessed enrichment and depletion of variants in publicly available annotation classes such as genic regions, regulatory features, measures of conservation, and patterns of histone modifications. We used logistic regression to build a multivariate model that identified the most influential functional annotations for trait-association status of genome-wide significant variants. SNPs associated with all of the enriched annotations were 8 times more likely to be trait-associated variants than SNPs annotated with none of them. Annotations associated with chromatin state together with prior knowledge of the existence of a local expression QTL (eQTL) were the most important factors in the final logistic regression model. Surprisingly, despite the widespread use of evolutionary conservation to prioritize variants for study we find only modest enrichment of trait-associated SNPs in conserved regions.

Conclusion

We established odds ratios of functional annotations that are more likely to contain significantly trait-associated SNPs, for the purpose of prioritizing GWAS hits for further studies. Additionally, we estimated the relative and combined influence of the different genomic annotations, which may facilitate future prioritization methods by adding substantial information.
Negative transcriptional control of ERBB2 gene by MBP-1 and HDAC1: diagnostic implications in breast cancer
Authors: Contino Flavia , Mazzarella Claudia , Ferro Arianna , Lo Presti Mariavera , Roz Elena , Lupo Carmelo , Perconti Giovanni , Giallongo Agata , Feo Salvatore
Published: February 2013

Background

The human ERBB2 gene is frequently amplified in breast tumors, and its high expression is associated with poor prognosis. We previously reported a significant inverse correlation between Myc promoter-binding protein-1 (MBP-1) and ERBB2 expression in primary breast invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC). MBP-1 is a transcriptional repressor of the c-MYC gene that acts by binding to the P2 promoter; only one other direct target of MBP-1, the COX2 gene, has been identified so far.

Methods

To gain new insights into the functional relationship linking MBP-1 and ERBB2 in breast cancer, we have investigated the effects of MBP-1 expression on endogenous ERBB2 transcript and protein levels, as well as on transcription promoter activity, by transient-transfection of SKBr3 cells. Reporter gene and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays were used to dissect the ERBB2 promoter and identify functional MBP-1 target sequences. We also investigated the relative expression of MBP-1 and HDAC1 in IDC and normal breast tissues by immunoblot analysis and immunohistochemistry.

Results

Transfection experiments and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays in SKBr3 cells indicated that MBP-1 negatively regulates the ERBB2 gene by binding to a genomic region between nucleotide −514 and −262 of the proximal promoter; consistent with this, a concomitant recruitment of HDAC1 and loss of acetylated histone H4 was observed. In addition, we found high expression of MBP-1 and HDAC1 in normal tissues and a statistically significant inverse correlation with ErbB2 expression in the paired tumor samples.

Conclusions

Altogether, our in vitro and in vivo data indicate that the ERBB2 gene is a novel MBP-1 target, and immunohistochemistry analysis of primary tumors suggests that the concomitant high expression of MBP-1 and HDAC1 may be considered a diagnostic marker of cancer progression for breast IDC.
Targeting of interleukin-13 receptor α2 for treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma induced by conditional deletion of TGF-β and PTEN signaling
Authors: Hall Bradford , Nakashima Hideyuki , Sun Zhi-Jun , Sato Yuki , Bian Yansong , Husain Syed R , Puri Raj K , Kulkarni Ashok B
Published: February 2013

Background

The sixth leading class of cancer worldwide is head and neck cancer, which typically arise within the squamous epithelium of the oral mucosa. Human head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is known to be difficult to treat and has only a 50% five-year survival rate. With HNSCC, novel therapeutics are needed along with a means of rapidly screening anti-cancer agents in vivo, such as mouse models.

Methods

In order to develop new animal models of cancer to test safety and efficacy of novel therapeutic agents for human HNSCC, tumors resembling clinical cases of human HNSCC were induced in the head and neck epithelium of a genetically engineered mouse model. This mouse model was generated by conditional deletion of two tumor suppressors, Transforming Growth Factor-β Receptor 1 (TGFβRI) and Phosphatase and Tensin homolog (PTEN), in the oral epithelium. We discovered that the tumors derived from these Tgfbr1/Pten double conditional knockout (2cKO) mice over-expressed IL-13Rα2, a high affinity receptor for IL-13 that can function as a tumor antigen. To demonstrate a proof-of-concept that targeted therapy against IL-13Rα2 expression would have any antitumor efficacy in this spontaneous tumor model, these mice were treated systemically with IL-13-PE, a recombinant immunotoxin consisting of IL-13 fused to the Pseudomonas exotoxin A.

Results

Tgfbr1/Pten 2cKO mice when treated with IL-13-PE displayed significantly increased survival when compared to the untreated control mice. The untreated mice exhibited weight loss, particularly with the rapid onset of tongue tumors, but the treated mice gained weight while on IL-13-PE therapy and showed no clinical signs of toxicity due to the immunotoxin. Expression of IL-13Rα2 in tumors was significantly decreased with IL-13-PE treatment as compared to the controls and the number of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) was also significantly reduced in the spleens of the IL-13-PE treated mice.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that the Tgfbr1/Pten 2cKO mouse model of human HNSCC is a useful model for assessing antitumor activity of new cancer therapeutic agents, and that IL-13-PE has therapeutic potential to treat human head and neck cancer.
Prognostic significance of miR-194 in endometrial cancer
Authors: Zhai Haiyan , Karaayvaz Mihriban , Dong Peixin , Sakuragi Noriaki , Ju Jingfang
Published: February 2013

Endometrial cancer (EC) is the leading malignant tumor occurring in the female genital tract and some subtypes are highly invasive and metastatic. miRNAs are small non-coding RNAs that have a broad impact on cancer progression. In particular, miR-194 regulates epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) by suppressing the expression of BMI-1 in EC. In this retrospective study, the clinical significance of miR-194 was investigated in archival EC specimens. We extracted total RNA from thirty-two EC samples and quantified the expression level of miR-194. We discovered that the expression level of miR-194 was significantly (P = 0.03) lower in type I EC patients with more advanced stage. In addition, patients with higher miR-194 levels have better prognosis than those with lower miR-194 levels (P = 0.0067; Cut-off value of miR-194 = 0.3). These results indicate that miR-194 has potential to serve as prognostic biomarker for EC patients.
The Influence of Varying Cell Sizes on the Tensile Behaviour of Open-Cell Foams
Authors: Sieber T. , Liedke T. , Mühlich U. , Ballani F.
Published: February 2013

The aim of this paper is to study the mechanical tensile properties of open-cell foam structures on the cell size variation by numerical simulations. For this purpose, random Laguerre tessellations were used, which allow the creation of foam structures with strongly varying cell sizes. First, a model was fitted to real open-cell foams based on x-ray computed tomography (XCT) scans by parameter optimization. Two more virtual foam models with different cell size variations were produced according to the first fitted one. Tensile properties of the model realizations were computed by finite-element analysis using beam elements. The numerical results were presented and discussed.
Thrombin inhibits osteoclast differentiation through a non-proteolytic mechanism
Authors: Sivagurunathan S , Pagel C N , Loh L H , Wijeyewickrema L C , Pike R N , Mackie E J
Published: February 2013

Thrombin stimulates expression of interleukin 6 and cyclooxygenase 2 by osteoblasts, both of which enhance osteoblast-mediated osteoclast differentiation by increasing the ratio of receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL) expression to that of osteoprotegerin (OPG) in osteoblasts. We hypothesised that thrombin would also increase this ratio and thereby stimulate osteoclast differentiation in mixed cultures of osteoblastic cells and osteoclast precursors. In primary mouse osteoblasts, but not in bone marrow stromal cells, thrombin increased the ratio of RANKL to OPG expression. Thrombin inhibited differentiation of osteoclasts, defined as tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)-positive cells with three or more nuclei, in mouse bone marrow cultures treated with osteoclastogenic hormones; this effect was not mediated by the major thrombin receptor, protease-activated receptor 1, nor did it require thrombin's proteolytic activity. Thrombin also caused a decrease in the number of TRAP-positive cells with fewer than three nuclei. Thrombin (active or inactive) also inhibited osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption, respectively, in cultures of mouse spleen cells and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells induced to undergo osteoclastogenesis by treatment with RANKL and macrophage colony-stimulating factor. Osteoclast differentiation in spleen cells was inhibited when they were exposed to thrombin from days 0 to 3 or 3 to 5 of culture but not days 5 to 7 when most fusion occurred. Thrombin inhibited expression of RANK by spleen cells. These observations indicate that, although thrombin stimulates production of osteoclastogenic factors by osteoblastic cells, it inhibits the early stages of RANKL-induced osteoclast differentiation through a direct effect on osteoclast precursors that does not require thrombin's proteolytic activity.
Potential Sources of Bisphenol A in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Duty Susan M. , Mendonca Kaitlin , Hauser Russ , Calafat Antonia M. , Ye Xiaoyun , Meeker John D. , Ackerman Robin , Cullinane Judi , Faller Josephine , Ringer Steven
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVES:

To determine whether nutritional intake and medical devices are bisphenol A (BPA) exposure sources among premature infants in the NICU.

METHODS:

Mothers and their premature infants cared for in the NICU for the past 3 days were recruited for this exposure assessment study. Forty-three mothers contributed 1 nutrition sample (breast milk or formula) to characterize the infant’s intake. Two urine samples (before and after feeding) were collected from each of 55 infants. Medical device use was categorized as “low” or “high” based on the number and invasiveness of devices used. BPA urinary concentrations used as a biomarker to estimate BPA exposure were measured by online solid-phase extraction, high performance liquid chromatography, isotope dilution, tandem mass spectrometry. Nonparametric equivalence tests, intraclass correlations, and hierarchical linear mixed-effects models were conducted.

RESULTS:

Breast milk and formula samples did not differ in total BPA concentration nor did infants’ median urinary concentration of total BPA before or after feedings. However, the median urinary total BPA concentration among infants who required the use of 4 or more medical devices in the past 3 days was significantly higher (36.6 µg/L) than among infants who required the use of 0 to 3 devices (13.9 µg/L). The calculated BPA exposures are lower than the US Environmental Protection Agency reference dose, but considerably higher (16- to 32-fold) than among infants or children from the general population.

CONCLUSIONS:

The number of medical devices used in the past 3 days, but not nutritional intake, was positively associated with exposure to BPA.
Acute HIV Infection in a Critically Ill 15-Year-Old Male
Authors: Dowshen Nadia , Pierce Virginia M. , Zanno Allison , Salazar-Austin Nicole , Ford Carol , Hodinka Richard L.
Published: February 2013

A 15-year-old previously healthy male presented with fever, vomiting, diarrhea, malaise, and altered mental status. In the emergency department, the patient appeared acutely ill, was febrile, tachycardic, hypotensive, and slow to respond to commands. He was quickly transferred to the ICU where initial evaluation revealed elevated white blood cell count and inflammatory markers, coagulopathy, abnormal liver function, and renal failure. Head computed tomography, cerebrospinal fluid studies, and blood cultures were negative. He was quickly stabilized with intravenous fluids and broad-spectrum antibiotics. When his mental status improved, the patient consented to HIV testing and was found to be negative using laboratory-based and rapid third-generation HIV type 1 (HIV-1)/HIV type 2 antibody assays. The specimen was subsequently shown to be positive for HIV by a newly licensed fourth-generation antigen/antibody test. HIV-1 Western blot performed on this sample was negative, but molecular testing for HIV-1 RNA 4 days later was positive and confirmed the screening result. The patient was later determined to have a viral load of 5 624 053 copies/mL and subsequently admitted to unprotected receptive anal intercourse 2 weeks before admission. This case demonstrates an atypically severe presentation of acute HIV infection with important lessons for pediatricians. It highlights the need to consider acute HIV infection in the differential diagnosis of the critically ill adolescent and for appropriate testing if acute infection is suspected. This case also illustrates the shortcomings of testing adolescents based only on reported risk and supports Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations for routine testing.
Childhood and Adolescent Television Viewing and Antisocial Behavior in Early Adulthood
Authors: Robertson Lindsay A. , McAnally Helena M. , Hancox Robert J.
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE:

To investigate whether excessive television viewing throughout childhood and adolescence is associated with increased antisocial behavior in early adulthood.

METHODS:

We assessed a birth cohort of 1037 individuals born in Dunedin, New Zealand, in 1972–1973, at regular intervals from birth to age 26 years. We used regression analysis to investigate the associations between television viewing hours from ages 5 to 15 years and criminal convictions, violent convictions, diagnosis of antisocial personality disorder, and aggressive personality traits in early adulthood.

RESULTS:

Young adults who had spent more time watching television during childhood and adolescence were significantly more likely to have a criminal conviction, a diagnosis of antisocial personality disorder, and more aggressive personality traits compared with those who viewed less television. The associations were statistically significant after controlling for sex IQ, socioeconomic status, previous antisocial behavior, and parental control. The associations were similar for both sexes, indicating that the relationship between television viewing and antisocial behavior is similar for male and female viewers.

CONCLUSIONS:

Excessive television viewing in childhood and adolescence is associated with increased antisocial behavior in early adulthood. The findings are consistent with a causal association and support the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendation that children should watch no more than 1 to 2 hours of television each day.
Detection of Neurologic Injury Using Vascular Reactivity Monitoring and Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein
Authors: Rhee Christopher J. , Kibler Kathleen K. , Brady Ken M. , Everett Allen D. , Graham Ernest M. , Andropoulos Dean B. , Easley R. Blaine
Published: February 2013

New noninvasive methods for monitoring cerebrovascular pressure reactivity coupled with a blood-based assay for brain-specific injury in preterm infants could allow early diagnosis of brain injury and set the stage for improved timing and effectiveness of interventions. Using an adaptation of near-infrared spectroscopy, we report a case of a very low birth weight infant undergoing hemoglobin volume index monitoring as a measure of cerebrovascular pressure reactivity. During the monitoring period, this infant demonstrated significant disturbances in cerebrovascular pressure reactivity that coincided with elevation of serum glial fibrillary acidic protein and new findings of brain injury on head ultrasound. This case report demonstrates the potential of emerging noninvasive monitoring methods to assist in both detection and therapeutic management to improve neurologic outcomes of the very low birth weight neonate.
A Semi-Implicit Approach for Integrated Reservoir and Surface Network Simulation
Authors: Liang Jialing , Rubin Barry
Published: February 2013

Conventionally, methods of coupling reservoirs and surface networks are categorized into implicit and explicit approaches. The term implicit coupling indicates the two simulators solve unknowns together, simultaneously or iteratively. While explicit coupling indicates the two simulators solve unknowns sequentially and exchange their boundary conditions at the last coupled time tn.

The explicit approach is straightforward to implement in existing reservoir and surface network models and is widely used. Explicit coupling does have drawbacks, however; as well rate and pressure oscillations are often observed.

In this paper, a new semi-implicit method for coupled simulation is presented. This technique stabilizes and improves the accuracy of the coupled model. The semi-implicit coupling overcomes the problems found in explicit coupling methods without requiring the complexity of a fully implicit coupled model.

The new approach predicts inflow performance relationship (IPR) curves at the next coupled time tn+1 by simultaneously conducting well tests for all wells in the reservoir before actually taking the required timestep. All wells first simultaneously flow to the next coupled time tn+1 with the well rates unchanged from the last coupled timestep. The timestep is rewound, and all well rates are reduced by a uniform fraction and then simultaneously flow again to tn+1. By extrapolating the resulting well pressures, the well’s shut-in pressures at time tn+1 are determined and thus straight line IPRs are produced. The new IPR curves better approximates each well’s drainage region at tn+1 and each well’s shut-in pressure at tn+1 which helps to stabilize the explicitly coupled model.

The new coupling technique normally does not require iteration between the reservoir and surface network and normally has the stability and accuracy characteristics of an implicitly coupled approach. Since the well tests already account for individual well drainage regions, explicit knowledge of the well drainage region is not required. Due to the stabilized IPR, the approach has also been found to reduce the overall computational time when compared with explicit coupling.

Applications of the new approach are presented which show significant improvements over explicit coupling in both stability and accuracy.
An integrated approach to water management in Kayseri: rainwater collection and use in an amusement park
Authors: Karakoçak B. B. , Yenigün O. , Toraman R. T.
Published: February 2013

Water management in urban areas of developing countries is a major environmental challenge for the future. Within the framework of the IWA Cities of the Future Programme, current water and wastewater management systems are investigated in Kayseri, Turkey, with the purpose of bringing water into the center of city life by a reformed pilot project. In order to assess both the quantity and dynamics of water to be utilized in the Kayseri Amusement Park, the US Environmental Protection Agency's (US EPA) Storm Water Management Model (SWMM) 5.0 was used. The obtained results demonstrated that after 3 years, 38,039 m3 of rainwater could be stored in the two proposed underground storage tanks. Forty three per cent of the water-ski lake with a volume of 90,000 m3 could be recharged with the stored rainwater.
Anthropometric indicators of mass and distribution of adipose tissue in the assessment of cardiovascular and diabetes risk in women
Authors: Rastovic Marina , Srdic-Galic Biljana , Stokic Edita , Sakac Dejan , Mikalacki Milena , Korovljev Darinka
Published: February 2013

Introduction. From the clinical and epidemiological point of view it is very
important to define easily measurable and simple anthropometric parameters of
mass and distribution of adipose tissue that will also be good predictors of
future complications of obesity. The aim of our study was to correlate
anthropometric indicators of mass and distribution of adipose tissue with the
risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. Material and
Methods. The study group consisted of 155 women aged 45.4?13.04y. The
anthropometric measurements were performed in order to assess adipose tissue
mass and its specific distribution. The 10-year risk of developing
cardiovascular diseases was assessed by using two score-systems: Framingham
and Prospective Cardiovascular Munster Study, while the 10-year risk of
development of diabetes was assessed by QDScore system. Results. According to
our results, the waist-to-stature ratio was the best predictor of
cardiovascular and diabetes risk (r=0.617-0.780; AUC=0.872). The estimated
cut-off value for the waist-to-stature ratio in cardiovascular and diabetes
risk prediction was 0.486. Apart from the waist-to-stature ratio, the body
mass index, body fat mass, waist circumference and indicators of upper
extremity adiposity also correlated strongly with the assessed risk. The
anthropometric indicators of lower body adiposity had no significant
diagnostic values. Conclusion. The waistto-stature ratio is the best
anthropometric indicator of cardiovascular and diabetes risk.
Pathophysiology of migraine: From molecular to personalized medicine
Authors: Kojic Zvezdana , Stojanovic Dobrica
Published: February 2013

Introduction. Understanding of migraine pathophysiology has substantially
improved over the last two decades. As a result, migraine is now mainly
considered to be a disorder of the brain, rather than one of the vasculature
or the meninges. Pathophysiology. Although it remains speculative how exactly
they relate to each other, the following three processes are important in
migraine: 1. Cortical spreading depression is a wave of intense
depolarization, it starts in the occipital lobe, propagates through the brain
and is followed by a period of suppressed activity. 2. Activation of the
trigemonovascular system causes the release of neuropeptides (e.g. calcitonin
gene-related peptide, substance P) from the peripheral trigeminal nerve
endings. These neuropeptides are thouglt to play a role in causing and
maintaing headache. 3. Sensitization of peripheral and central brain areas,
it is thought that pulsating quality of migraine headache is caused by a
process of peripheral sensitization. Cutaneous allodynia is a marker of
central sensitization. Link between Aura and Headache. The view that the aura
is caused by cortical spreading depression has become generally accepted, and
the same is true for the view that activation of the trigemonovascular system
underlies migraine headache. However, the relationship between the aura and
the activation of the trigemonovascular system and the start of headache
remains elusive. Genetics of Migraine. One of the most important aspects of
the pathophysiology of migraine is the hereditary nature of the disorder.
Conclusion. Identification of polymorphisms and genetic biomarkers should
help us to understand migraine pathophysiology better and thus enable the
development of specific, effective ?individually-tailored treatment? for each
particular migraine patient (personalized medicine).
Morbidity structure among prematurely born babies of the same gestational age from single and twin pregnancies
Authors: Dragicevic Marina , Velisavljev-Filipovic Gordana
Published: February 2013

Introduction. Premature infants, born before 37 completed weeks of gestation,
belong to the category of at-risk children. They have a lower survival rate
due to complex multifactorial diseases such as respiratory distress syndrome,
nosocomial sepsis, necrotizing enterocolitis, intracranial pathologies
(bleeding, ischemia, maldevelopment), retinopathy of prematurity, and
bronchopulmonary dysplasia which threaten survival and optimal
neurodevelopment. Multiple pregnancies are more often delivered before the
due date. Our objective was to determine the morbidity structure among
prematurely born twins compared to singletons of the same gestational age.
Material and Methods. The analysis included 60 prematurely born children (30
preterm twins and 30 singletons) who had been diagnosed with one or more
diseases: respiratory distress syndrome, intraventricular hemorrhage,
retinopathy, icterus, septicaemia, and other, with the exception of general
infections. Results. The most common diagnosis of preterm twins and
singletons was hyperbilirubinaemia (83.3%) and respiratory distress syndrome
(78.3%). Infections follow with 25% and intracranial hemorrhage with 21%.
Conclusion. According to statistical analyses, there is no significant
difference in incidence of morbidity among prematurely born singletons and
preterm twins.
Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) of vertebral column – an additional tool for evaluation of aggressiveness of vertebral haemangioma like lesion
Authors: Jeromel Miran , Podobnik Janez
Published: February 2013

Background. Most vertebral haemangioma are asymptomatic and discovered incidentally. Sometimes the symptomatic lesions present with radiological signs of aggressiveness and their appearance resemble other aggressive lesions (e.g. solitary plasmacytoma).

Case report. We present a patient with large symptomatic aggressive haemangioma like lesion in 12th thoracic vertebra in which a magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) was used to analyse fat content within the lesion. The lesion in affected vertebrae showed low fat content with 33% of fat fraction (%FF). The fat content in non-affected (1st lumbar) vertebra was as expected for patient’s age (68%). Based on MRS data, the lesion was characterized as an aggressive haemangioma. The diagnosis was confirmed with biopsy, performed during the treatment - percutaneous vertebroplasty.

Conclusions. The presented case shows that MRS can be used as an additional tool for evaluation of aggressiveness of vertebral haemangioma like lesions.
New cases of pathogens imported with ornamental fish
Authors: Sobecka Ewa , Łuczak Ewa , Marcinkiewicz Michał
Published: February 2013

The global trade in live ornamental fish carries with it the potential threat of unwanted movement of pathogens. The live ornamental fish, when released into the natural environment of their destination countries, may disseminate their parasites, threatening local fish and causing economic loss in fish aquaculture. This study was aimed to explain the reasons for deterioration of health and premature death of ornamental fish: Nannostomus spp. from Colombia and Symphysodon spp. Some specimens of Symphysodon aequifasciatus Pellegrin, 1904 were captured from their natural habitats in the Amazon River basin and shipped to Poland by air mail. The hybrids of Symphysodon spp. originated from an aquarium in Poland (shared with S. aequifasciatus). The third discus fish species, Symphysodon discus Heckel, 1840 came from a fish farm in Thailand and represents an Asian breeding line. All the studied fish were infected with pathogens. Nannostomus spp. housed a single parasite species on its skin, namely Artystone minima. This isopod species was not recorded in Poland and probably in Europe before. The examined fish of the genus Symphysodon yielded 13 pathogens. Five of them Philodina sp., Ichthyobodo necator, Hexamita symphysodonis, Sciadicleithrum variabilum and Eustrongylides sp. were not earlier recorded in this host species in Poland. The findings of Ichthyophonus hoferi and Myxobolus sp. are new host records for Symphysodon spp. fish. Hybrid fish and S. aequifasciatus are reported here as hosts of Entamoeba sp. for the first time.
Comparison Between Currently Used Blood Samples And New Saliva Dna Collection Method For Quality Of Genomic Dna And Genotyping
Authors: Aftenie Loredana Mariana , Franciuc Irina , Martinescu Alina , Honcea Adina
Published: February 2013

Obtaining blood biospecimens presents logistical and financial challenges. As a result, saliva biospecimen collection is becoming more frequent because of the ease of collection and lower cost. This article describes an assessment of two different methods for collecting samples: whole blood and whole saliva samples used further for DNA extraction and HLA genotyping in immunogenic disease on a group of patients registered at our Molecular Genetics Laboratory Faculty of Medicine “Ovidius” University Constanţa. Our data show that only 81% of the requested participants delivered a blood sample, whereas 19% delivered a saliva sample because they refuse the first sampling method. Analysis of purified genomic DNA by Nano Photometer and agarose gel electrophoresis revealed that blood and saliva samples resulted in DNA with the best quality. PCR analysis showed that DNA from 100% of the blood samples and 93% of the saliva samples could be subsequently amplified. Our study shows that the response rate of self-collection saliva samples had to be considering for the patients that have a low response rate of blood sampling. The quality of genomic DNA from saliva samples was comparable with blood samples as assessed by purity, concentration, yield and PCR amplification. We conclude that the use of saliva samples is a good alternative to blood samples to obtain genomic DNA of high quality and it will considerably increase the participant’s response rate for genetic studies.
The Incidence Of Hepatic Steatosis Recently Found In Patients With Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 Newly Discovered
Authors: Cojocaru Cristina , Circo E.
Published: February 2013

The nonalcoholic hepatic steatos is represents one of the most frequent disorders in patients with diabetes mellitus type 2. The obesity and especially the abdominal adipose tissue distribution represent factors of higher risk for nonalcoholic hepatic steatosis. The echographic examination and FirboScan are very important in identification of this disorder. The study consisted in analysis of the clinical and paraclinical results in order to identify the SHNA (The nonalcoholic hepatic steatosis) incidence. It must be mentioned the fact that the absence of the abdominal obesity and increased transaminases do not exclude SHNA(The nonalcoholic hepatic steatosis).
Mineral Concentrations in Bottled Water Products: Implications for Canadians’ Mineral Intakes
Authors: Bertinato Jesse , Taylor Jessica
Published: February 2013

Purpose: The popularity of bottled water products (BWPs) is growing in Canada. Concentrations of minerals with important implications for health were compared in different types of BWPs.

Methods: One sample of each brand and type of plain BWP (purified, remineralized, spring, mineral, and artesian), flavoured BWP, and nutrient-enriched BWP sold in major stores in Ottawa, Ontario, was purchased to allow determination of mineral concentrations by flame atomic absorption or emission spectroscopy. A total of 124 BWPs representing 37 brands were analyzed.

Results: In general, spring and mineral water contained higher amounts of magnesium and calcium than did purified, remineralized, artesian, flavoured, or nutrient-enriched water. Most plain BWPs contained little sodium and potassium, whereas 15% to 35% of flavoured and nutrient-enriched products had considerably higher concentrations. Only magnesium and calcium concentrations were highly correlated (r=0.76, p<0.001). Calculation of the percentage of Dietary Reference Intakes that could be supplied by each product revealed that, if they are consumed habitually, many products can contribute substantially to recommended intakes of these minerals.

Conclusions: Mineral concentrations in most types of BWP varied, but distinct differences between types of products were identified. Consumers should be aware of the mineral content of BWPs because some could influence intakes of certain minerals significantly.
Optimum Compressive Strength of Hardened Sandcrete Building Blocks with Steel Chips
Authors: Omoregie Alohan
Published: February 2013

The recycling of steel chips into an environmentally friendly, responsive, and profitable commodity in the manufacturing and construction industries is a huge and difficult challenge. Several strategies designed for the management and processing of this waste in developed countries have been largely unsuccessful in developing countries mainly due to its capital-intensive nature. To this end, this investigation attempts to provide an alternative solution to the recycling of this material by maximizing its utility value in the building construction industry. This is to establish their influence on the compressive strength of sandcrete hollow blocks and solid cubes with the aim of specifying the range percent of steel chips for the sandcrete optimum compressive strength value. This is particularly important for developing countries in sub-Saharan Africa, and even Latin America where most sandcrete blocks exhibit compressive strengths far below standard requirements. Percentages of steel chips relative to the weight of cement were varied and blended with the sand in an attempt to improve the sand grading parameters. The steel chips variations were one, two, three, four, five, ten and fifteen percent respectively. It was confirmed that the grading parameters were improved and there were significant increases in the compressive strength of the blocks and cube samples. The greatest improvement was noticed at four percent steel chips and sand combination. Using the plotted profile, the margin of steel chips additions for the optimum compressive strength was also established. It is recommended that steel chip sandcrete blocks are suitable for both internal load bearing, and non-load bearing walls, in areas where they are not subjected to moisture ingress. However, for external walls, and in areas where they are liable to moisture attack after laying, the surfaces should be well rendered. Below ground level, the surfaces should be coated with a water proofing agent like bitumen and cement containing waterproofing agents be used in the manufacture, laying, and rendering of steel chip sandcrete blocks.
Capacity Region of a New Bus Communication Model
Authors: Dai Bin , Vinck A. J. , Luo Yuan , Zhuang Zhuojun
Published: February 2013

In this paper, we study a new bus communication model, where two transmitters wish to send their corresponding private messages and a common message to a destination, while they also wish to send the common message to another receiver connected to the same wire. From an information-theoretical point of view, we first study a general case of this new model (with discrete memoryless channels). The capacity region composed of all achievable (R0,R1,R2) triples is determined for this general model, where R1 and R2 are the transmission rates of the private messages and R0 is the transmission rate of the common message. Then, the result is further explained via the Gaussian example. Finally, we give the capacity region for the new bus communication model with additive Gaussian noises and attenuation factors. This new bus communication model captures various communication scenarios, such as the bus systems in vehicles, and the bus type of communication channel in power line communication (PLC) networks.
Assessing Organ Doses from Paediatric CT Scans—A Novel Approach for an Epidemiology Study (the EPI-CT Study)
Authors: Thierry-Chef Isabelle , Dabin Jérémie , Friberg Eva , Hermen Johannes , Istad Tore , Jahnen Andreas , Krille Lucian , Lee Choonsik , Maccia Carlo , Nordenskjöld Arvid , Olerud Hilde , Rani Kaddour , Rehel Jean-Luc , Simon Steven , Struelens Lara , Kesminiene Ausrele
Published: February 2013

The increasing worldwide use of paediatric computed tomography (CT) has led to increasing concerns regarding the subsequent effects of exposure to radiation. In response to this concern, the international EPI-CT project was developed to study the risk of cancer in a large multi-country cohort. In radiation epidemiology, accurate estimates of organ-specific doses are essential. In EPI-CT, data collection is split into two time periods—before and after introduction of the Picture Archiving Communication System (PACS) introduced in the 1990s. Prior to PACS, only sparse information about scanner settings is available from radiology departments. Hence, a multi-level approach was developed to retrieve information from a questionnaire, surveys, scientific publications, and expert interviews. For the years after PACS was introduced, scanner settings will be extracted from Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) headers, a protocol for storing medical imaging data. Radiation fields and X-ray interactions within the body will be simulated using phantoms of various ages and Monte-Carlo-based radiation transport calculations. Individual organ doses will be estimated for each child using an accepted calculation strategy, scanner settings, and the radiation transport calculations. Comprehensive analyses of missing and uncertain dosimetry data will be conducted to provide uncertainty distributions of doses.
Immobilization of Ferrocene-Modified SNAP-Fusion Proteins
Authors: Wasserberg Dorothee , Uhlenheuer Dana , Neirynck Pauline , Cabanas-Danés Jordi , Schenkel Jan , Ravoo Bart , An Qi , Huskens Jurriaan , Milroy Lech-Gustav , Brunsveld Luc , Jonkheijm Pascal
Published: February 2013

The supramolecular assembly of proteins on surfaces has been investigated via the site-selective incorporation of a supramolecular moiety on proteins. To this end, fluorescent proteins have been site-selectively labeled with ferrocenes, as supramolecular guest moieties, via SNAP-tag technology. The assembly of guest-functionalized SNAP-fusion proteins on cyclodextrin- and cucurbit[7]uril-coated surfaces yielded stable monolayers. The binding of all ferrocene fusion proteins is specific as determined by surface plasmon resonance. Micropatterns of the fusion proteins, on patterned cyclodextrin and cucurbituril surfaces, have been visualized using fluorescence microscopy. The SNAP-fusion proteins were also immobilized on cyclodextrin vesicles. The supramolecular SNAP-tag labeling of proteins, thus, allows for the assembly of modified proteins via supramolecular host-guest interaction on different surfaces in a controlled manner. These findings extend the toolbox of fabricating supramolecular protein patterns on surfaces taking advantage of the high labeling efficiency of the SNAP-tag with versatile supramolecular moieties.
Experimental Study of Helical Shape Memory Alloy Actuators: Effects of Design and Operating Parameters on Thermal Transients and Stroke
Authors: Yates Shane , Kalamkarov Alexander
Published: February 2013

Shape memory alloy actuators’ strokes can be increased at the expense of recovery force via heat treatment to form compressed springs in their heat-activated, austenitic state. Although there are models to explain their behaviour, few investigations present experimental results for support or validation. The aim of the present paper is to determine via experimentation how certain parameters affect a helical shape memory alloy actuator’s outputs: its transformation times and stroke. These parameters include wire diameter, spring diameter, transition temperature, number of active turns, bias force and direct current magnitude. Six investigations were performed: one for each parameter manipulation. For repeatability and to observe thermo-mechanical training effects, the springs were cyclically activated. The resultant patterns were compared with results predicted from one-dimensional models to elucidate the findings. Generally, it was observed that the transformation times and strokes converged at changing stress levels; the convergence is likely the peak where the summation of elastic stroke and transformation stroke has reached its maximum. During cyclic loading, the actuators’ strokes decreased to a converged value, particularly at larger internal stresses; training should therefore be performed prior to the actuator’s implementation for continual use applications.
Heart Sound Biometric System Based on Marginal Spectrum Analysis
Authors: Zhao Zhidong , Shen Qinqin , Ren Fangqin
Published: February 2013

This work presents a heart sound biometric system based on marginal spectrum analysis, which is a new feature extraction technique for identification purposes. This heart sound identification system is comprised of signal acquisition, pre-processing, feature extraction, training, and identification. Experiments on the selection of the optimal values for the system parameters are conducted. The results indicate that the new spectrum coefficients result in a significant increase in the recognition rate of 94.40% compared with that of the traditional Fourier spectrum (84.32%) based on a database of 280 heart sounds from 40 participants.
ESI-MS/MS Identification of a Bradykinin-Potentiating Peptide from Amazon Bothrops atrox Snake Venom Using a Hybrid Qq-oaTOF Mass Spectrometer
Authors: Coutinho-Neto Antonio , Caldeira Cleópatra , Souza Gustavo , Zaqueo Kayena , Kayano Anderson , Silva Rodrigo , Zuliani Juliana , Soares Andreimar , Stábeli Rodrigo , Calderon Leonardo
Published: February 2013

A bradykinin-potentiating peptide (BPP) from Amazon Bothrops atrox venom with m/z 1384.7386 was identified and characterized by collision induced dissociation (CID) using an ESI-MS/MS spectra obtained in positive ion mode on a hybrid Qq-oaTOF mass spectrometer, Xevo G2 QTof MS (Waters, Manchester, UK). De novo peptide sequence analysis of the CID fragmentation spectra showed the amino acid sequence ZKWPRPGPEIPP, with a pyroglutamic acid and theoretical monoisotopic m/z 1384.7378, which is similar to experimental data, showing a mass accuracy of 0.6 ppm. The peptide is homologous to other BPP from Bothrops moojeni and was named as BPP-BAX12.
Classe moyenne kenyane et démocratie électorale
Authors: Maupeu Hervé
Published: February 2013

Résumé La culture matérielle de la classe moyenne kenyane permet de définir cette catégorie sociale et de cerner des indicateurs plus ou moins précis pour la repérer. Mais du point de vue de la vie politique, ses revendications se situent à un autre niveau. Fortement marquée par les épisodes électoraux et le débat constitutionnel, elle n’attend pas de l’État des services publics, mais seulement un environnement juridique propice à la gestion des risques liés à la propriété et surtout des risques sociaux (assurance maladie et assurance retraite essentiellement).
La lower middle class à Soweto
Authors: Escusa Élodie
Published: February 2013

Résumé La petite classe moyenne noire à Johannesbourg se définit elle-même par son pouvoir d’achat et les biens de consommation qu’elle possède. Ses pratiques de consommation sont étudiées en lien avec les institutions informelles de socialisation ou de solidarité communautaire qui les entourent, afin d’avoir une idée des réseaux sociaux des ménages rencontrés. Malgré le grand élan vers la consommation de masse, les traditions communautaires restent ancrées et les frontières sont visibles entre des groupes encore définis en termes raciaux en Afrique du Sud.
Le développement d'un index d'exposition de soi dans les médias sociaux : phase exploratoire d'identification des indicateurs constitutifs
Authors: Brodin Oliviane , Magnier Lise
Published: February 2013

Résumé Cet article a pour objet de clarifier le concept d’exposition de soi dans les médias sociaux. Il présente la première étape du développement d’un index d’exposition de soi sur la base d’une revue de littérature enrichie par une étude qualitative exploratoire. Les résultats montrent que l’exposition de soi est composée de deux sources constitutives, l’extimité relationnelle empathique et la visibilité de comparaison sociale dont les indicateurs respectifs sont identifiés.
Anatomie d'une unité mutine : le coup d'État de 1992 en Sierra Leone
Authors: Dwyer Maggie , Marcel Olivier
Published: February 2013

Résumé À partir de l’étude du coup d’État de 1992 en Sierra Leone, cet article examine la complexité des révoltes militaires internes. À partir d’entretiens et de conversations informelles avec les mutins, cet article donne un aperçu des dynamiques internes d’une unité dont les membres ont pris la décision extrêmement risquée d’attaquer leurs compagnons d’arme et la tête de l’État. Cette volonté d’exprimer leur mécontentement au plus haut niveau était, selon l’unité, une décision collective, mais les motivations différaient entre les officiers et les militaires du rang. Cet article montre en quoi les mutins ont maintenu une discipline au sein de l’unité, tout en déjouant la doctrine militaire et en se révoltant contre l’autorité supérieure. Outre l’examen des fonctionnements internes de ce groupe, cette recherche resitue l’unité dans son contexte au sein de l’armée de Sierra Leone. Une hiérarchie historiquement faible et un système de patronage ont certainement poussé les officiers subalternes et les militaires du rang à se révolter. Cette étude de cas montre le cocktail explosif que représente une unité militaire extrêmement solidaire aux niveaux les plus bas, mais déconnectée et mécontente de la hiérarchie militaire.
Can organisations learn without political leadership? The case of public sector reform among South African Home Affairs official
Authors: Wa Kabwe-Segatti Aurelia , Hoag Colin , Vigneswaran Darshan
Published: February 2013

Peut-il y avoir apprentissage organisationnel sans leadership politique ? Le cas de la réforme du ministère de l’Intérieur sud-africain Cet article traite de la transformation des « cultures institutionnelles » dans les administrations publiques. Cette dynamique est explorée dans le contexte des réformes des administrations publiques post-apartheid, et plus particulièrement de la gestion des migrations par le ministère de l’Intérieur sud-africain. L’article évalue les effets d’une réforme de nature politique destinée à inculquer un nouvel éthos de « service public » sur les perceptions et les pratiques des fonctionnaires. L’article conclut que les facteurs structurels n’expliquent que marginalement les difficultés rencontrées. C’est bien plutôt l’incapacité du leadership politique à pallier le manque d’un sens de mission commune et l’ensemble des effets non anticipés et contre-productifs de la réforme elle-même qui expliquent l’incapacité à amender les perceptions et les comportements des bureaucrates.