bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wing morphing control with shape memory alloy actuators
Authors: Bil Cees , Massey Kevin , Abdullah Ermira J
Published: February 2013

Aircraft morphing is referred to as the ability for an aircraft to change its geometry in flight. Formally, flaps, spoilers, and control devices are considered morphing, but in general, morphing in aerospace is associated with geometrical changes using smart materials such as shape memory alloys. Shape memory alloy is a material that changes shape under heating and produces force and deflections, which make it potential actuator for a wing morphing system. The motivation behind this study is the application to small-sized and medium-sized unmanned air vehicles and the potential to increase range or endurance for a given fuel load through improved lift-to-drag ratio. The camber line of an airfoil section, the predominant parameter affecting lift and drag, is changed by resistive heating of a shape memory alloy actuator and cooling in the surrounding air. Experiments were conducted under wind tunnel conditions to verify analysis and to investigate the effects of its application on the aerodynamic behavior of the wing. This study investigated three control methodologies: the conventional proportional–integral–derivative controller, proportional–integral–derivative with robust compensator, and proportional–integral–derivative with anti-windup compensator. The latter proved to have superior performance in achieving and maintaining a required level of morphing. In addition, the power required to the shape memory alloy actuators under aerodynamic load, and the effect of ambient temperature was also investigated.
Complications After Tendon Transfers in the Foot and Ankle Using Bioabsorbable Screws
Authors: Clanton Thomas O. , Betech Alex A. , Bott Aaron M. , Matheny Lauren M. , Hartline Braden , Hanson Travis W. , McGarvey William C.
Published: February 2013

Background:

Tendon transfers are commonly used for correction of pathology or deformity of the foot and ankle. Bioabsorbable implants have been developed as an alternative to metal interference screws. The purpose of this study was to document complications following tendon transfers of the foot and ankle using bioabsorbable poly-L-lactide interference screws.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review was used to identify patients in whom either of the 2 senior authors had performed a tendon transfer of the foot and ankle using a bioabsorbable interference screw between 1999 and 2005. A minimum of 6 months of follow-up was required for inclusion in the study. In all, 31 patients were identified who met the inclusion criteria with an average follow-up of 75 weeks. All screws were made of poly-L-lactide (PLLA).

Results:

Complications were identified in 12 (39%) of patients. All of the complications reported were known complications of the tendon transfer procedure itself, and were not directly related to the bioabsorbable screw.

Conclusions:

Based on these early results, PLLA implants appear safe and effective for tendon transfers of the foot and ankle. However, until long-term outcomes are available, judicious use of these implants is recommended.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case series.
Neuronal Rho GEFs in Synaptic Physiology and Behavior
Authors: Miller Megan B. , Yan Yan , Eipper Betty A. , Mains Richard E.
Published: February 2013

In the mammalian brain, the majority of excitatory synapses are housed in micron-sized dendritic protrusions called spines, which can undergo rapid changes in shape and number in response to increased or decreased synaptic activity. These dynamic alterations in dendritic spines require precise control of the actin cytoskeleton. Within spines, multidomain Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factors (Rho GEFs) coordinate activation of their target Rho GTPases by a variety of pathways. In this review, we focus on the handful of disease-related Rho GEFs (Kalirin; Trio; Tiam1; P-Rex1,2; RasGRF1,2; Collybistin) localized at synapses and known to affect electrophysiology, spine morphology, and animal behavior. The goal is to integrate structure/function studies with measurements of synaptic function and behavioral phenotypes in animal models.
Comorbidity of Allergic and Autoimmune Diseases Among Patients With ADHD
Authors: Chen Mu-Hong , Su Tung-Ping , Chen Ying-Sheue , Hsu Ju-Wei , Huang Kai-Lin , Chang Wen-Han , Chen Tzeng-Ji , Bai Ya-Mei
Published: February 2013

Objective: Patients with ADHD have been suggested to have increased risks of allergic diseases but without consistent results, and limited studies about the association between ADHD and autoimmune diseases were noted in the literature. Method: Utilizing the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database, ADHD patients were identified and compared with age- and gender-matched controls (1:4). Results: In all, 8,201 participants were identified as having ADHD, and an increased prevalence of allergic diseases, including asthma (odds ratio [OR] = 1.53), allergic rhinitis (OR = 1.59), atopic dermatitis (OR = 1.53), and urticaria (OR = 1.39), compared with the control group. Although the comorbidity of autoimmune diseases with ADHD was low, ADHD patients had a significantly greater prevalence of ankylosing spondylitis (OR = 2.78), ulcerative colitis (OR = 2.31), and autoimmune thyroid disease (OR = 2.53) than the controls. Conclusion: Our results supported the association between ADHD and allergic/autoimmune diseases. The further studies will be required to clarify the underlying mechanisms.
Agreement Among Categorical, Dimensional, and Impairment Criteria for ADHD and Common Comorbidities
Authors: Sprafkin Joyce , Steinberg Elizabeth A. , Gadow Kenneth D. , Drabick Deborah A. G.
Published: February 2013

Objective: To compare the results of categorically based versus dimensionally based scoring algorithms for a Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed.; DSM-IV)–referenced teacher rating scale for assessing ADHD and commonly co-occurring conditions and to determine their relative agreement with ratings of symptom-induced impairment. Method: Teachers completed Child and Adolescent Symptom Inventory–4R (CASI-4R) ratings for 1,092 youth (ages 6-18 years) referred to a child and adolescent psychiatry outpatient service. Caseness was determined according to DSM-IV symptom count (categorical model) and T-score (dimensional model) criteria. Results: Agreement between symptom count and T-score cutoffs was generally good (kappa ≥ 0.61) for ADHD-Inattentive, ADHD-Hyperactive-Impulsive, ADHD-Combined (except adolescent females), Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Conduct Disorder, but this was not the case for anxiety and depressive disorders where only 15% of kappas were good. Agreement of impairment cutoff with T-score and symptom count cutoffs ranged from poor to good. Conclusion: In general, although in many cases CASI-4R categorical and dimensional scoring algorithms generated similar results, there was considerable variability across disorders, age groups, scoring method, and in some cases, gender. Moreover, symptom counts and T-scores are not a proxy for assessing impairment suggesting that each scoring strategy likely provides unique information for clinical decision-making.
A survey of North American shelter practices relating to feline upper respiratory management
Authors: Spindel Miranda E , Slater Margaret R , Boothe Dawn
Published: February 2013

An internet-based survey was conducted to determine common strategies for control of feline upper respiratory infections (URI) in animal shelters. Two hundred and fifty-eight North American shelters responded, representing a spectrum of 57% private non-profit, 27% municipal and 16% combined private non-profit-municipal shelters. All but nine shelters reported having a regular relationship with a veterinarian, 53% had full-time veterinarians and 62% indicated full-time (non-veterinarian) medical staff. However, in 35% of facilities, non-medical shelter management staff determined what medication an individual cat could receive, with 5% of facilities making that decision without indicating the involvement of a veterinarian or technician. Ninety-one percent of shelters had an isolation area for clinically ill cats. The most commonly used antimicrobial was doxycycline (52%), followed by amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (33%). Shelters are using a wide range of prevention measures and therapeutics, leaving room for studying URI in different settings to improve understanding of optimal protocols.
Organizing, changing and learning: A sensemaking perspective on an ongoing ‘soap story’
Authors: Colville Ian , Hennestad Bjorn , Thoner Kristoffer
Published: February 2013

This article adopts a sensemaking perspective to explore changing and learning in an organization that has been making the same product for more than 175 years. Using an insider/outsider methodology, this case provides evidence of dynamic, ongoing processes of changing and learning across time, albeit without formal change intervention. We conclude that organizational becoming, learning and change are found in the juxtaposing of order and disorder, frames of past learning and cues of present action. This balance between the past and emerging present is advanced as a way of seeing organizational learning, which is sensitive to process and time.
Molecular network of chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by deep sequencing-based vitamin D receptor target genes
Authors: Satoh Jun-ichi , Tabunoki Hiroko
Published: February 2013

Background:

Vitamin D is a liposoluble vitamin essential for calcium metabolism. The ligand-bound vitamin D receptor (VDR), heterodimerized with retinoid X receptor, interacts with vitamin D response elements (VDREs) to regulate gene expression. Vitamin D deficiency due to insufficient sunlight exposure confers an increased risk for multiple sclerosis (MS).

Objective:

To study a protective role of vitamin D in multiple sclerosis (MS), it is important to characterize the global molecular network of VDR target genes (VDRTGs) in immune cells.

Methods:

We identified genome-wide VDRTGs collectively from two distinct chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by deep sequencing (ChIP-Seq) datasets of VDR-binding sites derived from calcitriol-treated human cells of B cell and monocyte origins. We mapped short reads of next generation sequencing (NGS) data on hg19 with Bowtie, detected the peaks with Model-based Analysis of ChIP-Seq (MACS), and identified genomic locations by GenomeJack, a novel genome viewer for NGS platforms.

Results:

We found 2997 stringent peaks distributed on protein-coding genes, chiefly located in the promoter and the intron on VDRE DR3 sequences. However, the corresponding transcriptome data verified calcitriol-induced upregulation of only a small set of VDRTGs. The molecular network of 1541 calcitriol-responsive VDRTGs showed a significant relationship with leukocyte transendothelial migration, Fcγ receptor-mediated phagocytosis, and transcriptional regulation by VDR, suggesting a pivotal role of genome-wide VDRTGs in immune regulation.

Conclusion:

These results suggest the working hypothesis that persistent deficiency of vitamin D might perturb the complex network of VDRTGs in immune cells, being responsible for induction of an autoimmune response causative for MS.
Microstructural evolution and mechanical properties of friction stir welded AA2017 with different initial microstructures
Authors: Mirjalili A , Aval H Jamshidi , Serajzadeh S , Kokabi AH
Published: February 2013

Residual stresses, local mechanical properties, and microstructural evolution in terms of grain structures and precipitation distribution have been studied in friction stir welding of AA2017 in T4 and T6 conditions. Microstructural studies including optical and electron microscopy were made to characterize the developed microstructures in different zones of the weldment. Furthermore, X-ray diffraction technique and digital image correlation technique were also utilized to assess residual stress and mechanical properties of the welded alloy. The results show that coarsening of semi-coherent plate-shaped precipitates and formation of incoherent spherical-shaped particles occur in heat affected and thermo-mechanical affected zones while a non-uniform grain size distribution is formed in the stir zone because of asymmetric distributions of strain rate and temperature. Moreover, the developed residual stresses in the welded samples significantly enhance the effect of subsequent natural aging.
‘Shadow publics’ in the news coverage of socio-political issues
Authors: Munshi Debashish , Kurian Priya , Fraser Rebecca , Rupar Verica
Published: February 2013

Coverage of contentious socio-political issues in the news media often involves the creation of ‘shadow publics’ that facilitate journalistic framing strategies. These publics are not easily identifiable but exert significant persuasive power by virtue of the authority ascribed to them. This article explores how the media create and legitimize certain shadow publics which then go on to influence public policy. The findings of the article come out of an examination of the extensive newspaper coverage of two highly debated issues – immigration and genetic modification – in New Zealand between 1998 and 2002. Although the coverage of the two issues was dramatically different, it was apparent that particular sections of the population were given greater voice over others in newspapers via the seemingly neutral yet strongly opinionated and influential shadow publics.
Relation between shielding effectiveness and tightness of electromagnetic shielding fabric
Authors: Liu Zhe , Wang Xiuchen
Published: February 2013

This article studies the relation between fabric tightness and shielding effectiveness (SE) of blended electromagnetic shielding fabric (BESF). The SE of different tightness BESFs is tested using a waveguide testing method. Experimental analyses show that the SE of BESF associates to the tightness linearly, the SEs of same tightness fabrics are consistent under same metal fiber contents, same weave types and different yarn linear densities condition, and the SEs of different type fabrics are inconsistent under same tightness, same metal fiber contents and same yarn densities condition. Moreover, a theory about the relation between the SE and the tightness determined by adjacent yarns states is proposed according to the electromagnetic theory. A number of computation equations about tightness boundary determination are given, which would provide reference for the BESF design, manufacture and testing.
Truth-Telling and Intellectual Activism
Authors: Collins Patricia Hill
Published: February 2013

Patricia Hill Collins, a feminist public intellectual, discusses the importance of speaking across multiple audiences.
Borders and Margins
Authors: Bylander Maryann , Maillard Emmanuel
Published: February 2013

Photographer Emmanuel Maillard and sociologist Maryann Bylander document the lives of Cambodian migrants in Thailand. Through photographs taken at border crossings, work sites, and living spaces, they highlight the ambivalence many migrants express about their experiences abroad.
Measuring Same-Sex Relationships
Authors: Bates Nancy , DeMaio Theresa J.
Published: February 2013

The last decade has seen dramatic changes in how U.S. society views and recognizes same-sex couples. U.S. Census Bureau employees, Nancy Bates and Theresa J. DeMaio, chronicle recent efforts taken by the Census Bureau to update and improve the measurement and counting of same-sex couples.
What They’re Watching
Authors: Cerulo Karen , Dill Bonnie Thornton , Gray Herman , Howard Judy , Scheff Thomas , Torpey John
Published: February 2013

A “list” of what six social scientists are watching on television and film.
Galvanic Vestibular Stimulation Improves Arm Position Sense in Spatial Neglect
Authors: Schmidt Lena , Keller Ingo , Utz Kathrin S. , Artinger Frank , Stumpf Oliver , Kerkhoff Georg
Published: February 2013

Background. Disturbed arm position sense (APS) is a frequent and debilitating condition in patients with hemiparesis after stroke. Patients with neglect, in particular, show a significantly impaired contralesional APS. Currently, there is no treatment available for this disorder. Galvanic vestibular stimulation (GVS) may ameliorate neglect and extinction by activating the thalamocortical network. Objective. The present study aimed to investigate the immediate effects and aftereffects (AEs; 20 minutes) of subsensory, bipolar GVS ( M = 0.6 mA current intensity) on APS in stroke patients with versus without spatial neglect and matched healthy controls. Methods. A novel optoelectronic arm position device was developed, enabling the precise measurement of the horizontal APS of both arms. In all, 10 healthy controls, 7 patients with left-sided hemiparesis and left-spatial neglect, and 15 patients with left hemiparesis but without neglect were tested. Horizontal APS was measured separately for both forearms under 4 experimental conditions (baseline without GVS, left-cathodal/right-anodal GVS, right-cathodal/left-anodal GVS, sham GVS). The immediate effects during GVS and the AEs 20 minutes after termination of GVS were examined. Results. Patients with neglect showed an impaired contralateral APS in contrast to patients without neglect and healthy controls. Left-cathodal/right-anodal GVS improved left APS significantly, which further improved into the normal range 20 minutes poststimulation. GVS had no effect in patients without neglect but right-cathodal/left-anodal GVS worsened left APS in healthy participants significantly. Conclusions. GVS can significantly improve the impaired APS in neglect. Multisession GVS can be tested to induce enduring therapeutic effects.
Numerical and experimental investigation of the hygrothermal response of timber frame walls with an exterior air barrier
Authors: Langmans Jelle , Klein Ralf , Roels Staf
Published: February 2013

Laboratory tests and numerical simulations to study the hygrothermal consequences of using an exterior air barrier in light-weight building envelopes are discussed. Full-scale test walls are placed between a vertical hot and coldbox, operating at controlled temperatures, humidity levels and total air pressures. The test walls are exposed to different boundary conditions during five consecutive measuring stages. Each test wall is provided with 18 thermocouples, 15 relative humidity, 3 heat flux and 1 pressure gauge sensor, covering the most important positions of the wall. In this way, the obtained results can be used as detailed validation data for heat, air and moisture (HAM)-models with a strong focus on natural and forced air convection. The main emphasis of this article is the evaluation of a numerical model with the current dataset. The model used is a modified version of DELPHIN 5 including a quasi-steady state airflow model with the ability to capture natural convection.
Dance, ageing and the mirror: Negotiating watchability
Authors: Coupland Justine
Published: February 2013

Bodily display and self-awareness are generally mediated by restrictive ideologies of youthful beauty. ‘How do I look?’ is therefore a salient question in terms of personal ageing. Dance makes bodies watchable, while ageing has been claimed to make bodies ‘unwatchable’. Ethnographic research conducted amongst a group of older dancers provides an opportunity to study these ideological tensions empirically, by analysing the discursive representations of older dancers and their teacher. ‘The mirror’ is a productive theme in the data, giving access to understandings of (un)watchability of more and less literal sorts. It proves to be the case that, while dance as a practice for older women remains fitfully tainted by culturally dominant ageist assumptions about the body and ageing, it also opens up far more emancipating ideologies. Older dancers’ articulation of these ideologies are suggestive of how embodied ageing can be reconstrued, well beyond dance contexts.
Precontextualization and the rhetoric of futurity: Foretelling Colin Powell’s UN address on NBC News
Authors: Oddo John
Published: February 2013

This article examines precontextualization: the rhetorical act of previewing and contextualizing a future discursive event. I examine how an NBC News broadcast selected verbal–visual representations of the past in order to enact a context for an upcoming discourse moment: Colin Powell’s 2003 United Nations (UN) address. The article draws on appraisal analysis (Martin and White, 2005), multimodal video analysis (Baldry and Thibault, 2005) and scholarship on the rhetoric of futurity (e.g. Dunmire, 2011). I show that the NBC journalists who precontextualized Powell’s address on the night before its delivery presented viewers with a supportive context for understanding Powell’s argument. By representing Saddam Hussein as deceptive and even deserving of future violence, the journalists essentially pre-confirmed arguments that Powell employed the next day. More importantly, because the news representations were presented as factual, they allowed viewers little space to consider alternative viewpoints – and little reason to question or resist the seemingly inexorable push for war.
Microbial dysbiosis and colon carcinogenesis: could colon cancer be considered a bacteria-related disease?
Authors: Sobhani Iradj , Amiot Aurelien , Le Baleur Yann , Levy Michael , Auriault Marie-Luce , Van Nhieu Jeanne Tran , Delchier Jean Charles
Published: February 2013

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is posing an increasingly important burden on the health care system, with western countries seeing a growing incidence of the disease. Except for germline DNA mutations which have been attributed to less than 5% of patients, little is known about the main causes of CRC. However, environment factors such as food, lifestyle and medication are now suspected to have a major influence on inducing cancers. Today, exhaustive quantitative and qualitative evaluation of all environmental factors is not possible. Various environment-induced diseases have been characterized based on colon microflora, also called microbiota, analyses. Growing data have shown specific changes in microflora (i.e. dysbiosis) in the stools of patients with colon cancer or those adherent to the colonic mucosa. Thus, it appears that microbiota may be considered a platform offering host and environment interactions for studying CRCs. The hypothesis that colon cancer might be a bacteria-related disease is suggested and perspectives are discussed.
Targeting B cells in the treatment of multiple sclerosis: recent advances and remaining challenges
Authors: Lehmann-Horn Klaus , Kronsbein Helena C. , Weber Martin S.
Published: February 2013

Recent years have substantially broadened our view on the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS). While earlier concepts focused predominantly on T lymphocytes as the key cell type to mediate inflammatory damage within central nervous system (CNS) lesions, emerging evidence suggests that B lymphocytes may play a comparably important role both as precursors of antibody-secreting plasma cells and as antigen-presenting cells (APCs) for the activation of T cells. With greater appreciation of this pathogenic B-cell function in MS, B-cell-directed therapies, and in particular B-cell-depleting monoclonal antibodies targeting the CD20 molecule, have gained enormous interest over recent years. Clinical trials demonstrated that anti-CD20 treatment, which depletes immature and mature B cells but spares CD20 negative plasma cells, rapidly reduces formation of new inflammatory CNS lesions. While these findings clearly corroborate a pathogenic contribution of B cells, recent experimental but also clinical findings indicate that not all B cells contribute in an equally pathogenic manner and that certain subsets may in contrast mediate anti-inflammatory effects. In this review, we summarize current findings in support of pathogenic B-cell function in MS, including the encouraging clinical data which derived from anti-CD20 MS trials. Further, we review novel findings suggestive of regulatory properties of B-cell subsets which may be collaterally abolished by pan-CD20 depletion. In conclusion, we aim to provide an outlook on how this currently differentiating concept of pro- and anti-inflammatory B-cell function could be harnessed to further improve safety and effectiveness of B-cell-directed therapeutic approaches in MS.
From Fantasy to Action
Authors: Duckworth Angela Lee , Kirby Teri A. , Gollwitzer Anton , Oettingen Gabriele
Published: February 2013

The current intervention tested whether a metacognitive self-regulatory strategy of goal pursuit can help economically disadvantaged children convert positive thoughts and images about their future into effective action. Mental contrasting with implementation intentions (MCII) entails mental contrasting a desired future with relevant obstacles of reality and forming implementation intentions (if–then plans) specifying when and where to overcome those obstacles. Seventy-seven 5th graders from an urban middle school were randomly assigned to learn either MCII or a Positive Thinking control strategy. Compared to children in the control condition, children taught how to apply MCII to their academic wishes and concerns significantly improved their report card grades (η2 = .07), attendance (η2 = .05), and conduct (η2 = .07). These findings suggest that MCII holds considerable promise for helping disadvantaged middle school children improve their academic performance.
Metazoan-like signaling in a unicellular receptor tyrosine kinase
Authors: Schultheiss Kira P , Craddock Barbara P , Tong Michael , Seeliger Markus , Miller W Todd
Published: February 2013

Background

Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are crucial components of signal transduction systems in multicellular animals. Surprisingly, numerous RTKs have been identified in the genomes of unicellular choanoflagellates and other protists. Here, we report the first biochemical study of a unicellular RTK, namely RTKB2 from Monosiga brevicollis.

Results

We cloned, expressed, and purified the RTKB2 kinase, and showed that it is enzymatically active. The activity of RTKB2 is controlled by autophosphorylation, as in metazoan RTKs. RTKB2 possesses six copies of a unique domain (designated RM2) in its C-terminal tail. An isolated RM2 domain (or a synthetic peptide derived from the RM2 sequence) served as a substrate for RTKB2 kinase. When phosphorylated, the RM2 domain bound to the Src homology 2 domain of MbSrc1 from M. brevicollis. NMR structural studies of the RM2 domain indicated that it is disordered in solution.

Conclusions

Our results are consistent with a model in which RTKB2 activation stimulates receptor autophosphorylation within the RM2 domains. This leads to recruitment of Src-like kinases (and potentially other M. brevicollis proteins) and further phosphorylation, which may serve to increase or dampen downstream signals. Thus, crucial features of signal transduction circuitry were established prior to the evolution of metazoans from their unicellular ancestors.
Semantic representation of monogenean haptoral Bar image annotation
Authors: Abu Arpah , Susan Lim Lee Hong , Sidhu Amandeep Singh , Dhillon Sarinder Kaur
Published: February 2013

Background

Digitised monogenean images are usually stored in file system directories in an unstructured manner. In this paper we propose a semantic representation of these images in the form of a Monogenean Haptoral Bar Image (MHBI) ontology, which are annotated with taxonomic classification, diagnostic hard part and image properties. The data we used are basically of the monogenean species found in fish, thus we built a simple Fish ontology to demonstrate how the host (fish) ontology can be linked to the MHBI ontology. This will enable linking of information from the monogenean ontology to the host species found in the fish ontology without changing the underlying schema for either of the ontologies.

Results

In this paper, we utilized the Taxonomic Data Working Group Life Sciences Identifier (TDWG LSID) vocabulary to represent our data and defined a new vocabulary which is specific for annotating monogenean haptoral bar images to develop the MHBI ontology and a merged MHBI-Fish ontologies. These ontologies are successfully evaluated using five criteria which are clarity, coherence, extendibility, ontology commitment and encoding bias.

Conclusions

In this paper, we show that unstructured data can be represented in a structured form using semantics. In the process, we have come up with a new vocabulary for annotating the monogenean images with textual information. The proposed monogenean image ontology will form the basis of a monogenean knowledge base to assist researchers in retrieving information for their analysis.
Insights into the evolution of Darwin’s finches from comparative analysis of the Geospiza magnirostris genome sequence
Authors: Rands Chris M , Darling Aaron , Fujita Matthew , Kong Lesheng , Webster Matthew T , Clabaut Céline , Emes Richard D , Heger Andreas , Meader Stephen , Hawkins Michael Brent , Eisen Michael B , Teiling Clotilde , Affourtit Jason , Boese Benjamin , Grant Peter R , Grant Barbara Rosemary , Eisen Jonathan A , Abzhanov Arhat , Ponting Chris P
Published: February 2013

Background

A classical example of repeated speciation coupled with ecological diversification is the evolution of 14 closely related species of Darwin’s (Galápagos) finches (Thraupidae, Passeriformes). Their adaptive radiation in the Galápagos archipelago took place in the last 2–3 million years and some of the molecular mechanisms that led to their diversification are now being elucidated. Here we report evolutionary analyses of genome of the large ground finch,Geospiza magnirostris.

Results

13,291 protein-coding genes were predicted from a 991.0 Mb G. magnirostrisgenome assembly. We then defined gene orthology relationships and constructed whole genome alignments between theG. magnirostrisand other vertebrate genomes. We estimate that 15% of genomic sequence is functionally constrained betweenG. magnirostrisand zebra finch. Genic evolutionary rate comparisons indicate that similar selective pressures acted along theG. magnirostrisand zebra finch lineages suggesting that historical effective population size values have been similar in both lineages. 21 otherwise highly conserved genes were identified that each show evidence for positive selection on amino acid changes in the Darwin's finch lineage. Two of these genes (Igf2randPou1f1) have been implicated in beak morphology changes in Darwin’s finches. Five of 47 genes showing evidence of positive selection in early passerine evolution have cilia related functions, and may be examples of adaptively evolving reproductive proteins.

Conclusions

These results provide insights into past evolutionary processes that have shapedG. magnirostrisgenes and its genome, and provide the necessary foundation upon which to build population genomics resources that will shed light on more contemporaneous adaptive and non-adaptive processes that have contributed to the evolution of the Darwin’s finches.
A synergistic interaction between transcription factors nuclear factor-κB and signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 promotes gastric cancer cell migration and invasion
Authors: Yoon Jiyeon , Cho Sung Jin , Ko Young San , Park Jinju , Shin Dong Hoon , Hwang In Chan , Han Sang Yeun , Nam Seon Young , Kim Min A , Chang Mee Soo , Lee Hye Seung , Kim Woo Ho , Lee Byung Lan
Published: February 2013

Background

The transcription factor nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) has been implicated in gastric cancer metastasis, but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. We investigated the role of the interaction between NF-κB and signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 (STAT3) in controlling metastatic potential of gastric cancer cells.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry for NF-κB p65 (RelA), phospho-Tyr705-STAT3 (pSTAT3), or matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) was performed on tissue array slides containing 255 gastric carcinoma specimens. NF-κB inhibition in SNU-638 and MKN1 gastric cancer cell lines were performed by transduction with a retroviral vector containing NF-κB repressor mutant of IκBα, and STAT3 was silenced by RNA interference. We also did luciferase reporter assay, double immunofluorescence staining and immunoblotting. Cell migration and invasion were determined by wound-healing assay and invasion assay, respectively.

Results

NF-κB and STAT3 were constitutively activated and were positively correlated (P = 0.038) in gastric cancer tissue specimens. In cell culture experiments, NF-κB inhibition reduced STAT3 expression and activation, whereas STAT3 silencing did not affect NF-κB activation. Moreover, both NF-κB inhibition and STAT3 silencing decreased gastric cancer cell migration and invasion in a synergistic manner. In addition, both NF-κB activation and STAT3 activation were positively correlated with MMP9 in gastric cancer tissues (P = 0.001 andP = 0.022, respectively), decreased E-cadherin expression and increased Snail and MMP9 expressions in cultured cells.

Conclusion

NF-κB and STAT3 are positively associated and synergistically contribute to the metastatic potential of gastric cancer cells. Thus, dual use of NF-κB and STAT3 inhibitors may enhance the efficacy of the anti-metastatic treatment of gastric cancer.
Multi-level modelling of the factors that influence the participation of disabled rural individuals in social medical insurance in China
Authors: Huang Ju , Pan Xi-Long , Li Ang
Published: February 2013

Background

The Second China National Sample Survey on Disability in 2006 showed that the participation rate of disabled Chinese rural individuals in social medical insurance participation was less than 30%. However, there has been limited number of studies on the influencing factors, especially contextual factors, affecting their participation in social medical insurance. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the factors influencing the participation of disabled rural individuals in social medical insurance, including contextual factors.

Methods

Based on data derived from the Second China National Sample Survey on Disability, chi-square test and two-level logistic regression model were used to analyze the influencing factors.

Results

The results showed that the disabled rural individuals in the New Rural Cooperative Medical System pilot counties who lived in communities with rehabilitation stations or with higher per capita income of villagers were more likely to participate in the social medical insurance. Meanwhile, those employed, with less severe disability degree or with less severe barriers in participation in society were more likely to participate in the social medical insurance.

Conclusions

Contextual factors including economic and policy contexts were important factors influencing their participation in social medical insurance before 2006 in China. Unemployment, severer disability degree and social isolation might also prevent them from gaining equal access to social medical insurance.
Molecular cloning and expression analyses of porcine MAP1LC3A in the granulosa cells of normal and miniature pig
Authors: Kim Sang H , Hwang Sue Y , Min Kwan S , Yoon Jong T
Published: February 2013

Background

The members of the microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain (MAP1LC) family, especially those of the LC3 family (MAP1LC3A, B, C), are known to induce autophagy upon localization onto the autophagosomal membrane. In this regard, LC3 can be utilized as a marker for the formation of autophagosomes during the process of autophagy. The aims of this study are to clone porcine MAP1LC3A, and analyze the pattern of its expression in the ovarian tissues of normal and miniature pig ovary in an attempt to understand the distinct mode of apoptosis between two strains.

Methods

Rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) were used to obtain the 5′ and 3′ ends of the porcine MAP1LC3A full length cDNA. Reverse-transcriptase-PCR (RT-PCR), real-time PCR, and western blot analysis were performed to examine the expression of porcine MAP1LC3A. The localization of MAP1LC3A in the ovary was determined by In situ Hybridization and Immunohistochemical staining.

Results

We cloned the full-length cDNA of porcine MAP1LC3A and identified an open reading frame of 980 bp encoding 121 amino acids. Based on its homology to known mammalian proteins (98%) this novel cDNA was designated as porcine MAP1LC3A and registered to the GenBank (Accession No. GU272221). We compared the expression of MAP1LC3A in the Graafian follicles of normal and miniature pigs by in situ hybridization at day 15 of the estrus cycle. While normal pigs showed a stronger expression of MAP1LC3A mRNA than miniature pigs in the theca cell area, the expression was lower in the granulosa cells. Immunofluorescence analysis of the MAP1LC3A fusion reporter protein showed the subcellular localization of porcine MAP1LC3A and ATG5 as a punctate pattern in the cytoplasm of porcine granulosa cells under stress conditions. In addition, the expressions of MAP1LC3A and ATG5 were higher in normal pigs than in miniature pigs both in the presence and absence of rapamycin.

Conclusions

The newly cloned porcine MAP1LC3A provides a novel autophagosomal marker in both normal and miniature pig. We demonstrated that the expression of MAP1LC3A in graafian follicle is distinct in normal and miniature pig, which may explain the unique folliculogenesis of miniature pigs.
Coronary artery involvement in pediatric Takayasu’s arteritis: Case report and literature review
Authors: Mohan Shaun , Poff Sarah , Torok Kathryn S
Published: February 2013

Takayasu’s arteritis (TA) is a form of chronic vasculitis that typically occurs in young adult Asian females, but it can also present in younger patients not fitting this classic profile. In these cases, the sequelae are generally similar to those found in adults. The disease predominantly affects the aorta and its primary branches. However, the coronary arteries are also affected in up to 20% of cases, which may precipitate myocardial infarction. Imaging of the coronary arteries therefore becomes critically important in the evaluation of a patient with possible Takayasu’s arteritis. We present a case of a pediatric patient with TA who had no symptoms of angina but who was found to have significant coronary artery involvement on diagnostic imaging. This necessitated tailoring of traditional management.
Biogenic synthesis and characterization of gold nanoparticles by Escherichia coli K12 and its heterogeneous catalysis in degradation of 4-nitrophenol
Authors: Srivastava Sarvesh Kumar , Yamada Ryosuke , Ogino Chiaki , Kondo Akihiko
Published: February 2013

Room-temperature extracellular biosynthesis of gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) was achieved usingEscherichia coliK12 cells without the addition of growth media, pH adjustments or inclusion of electron donors/stabilizing agents. The resulting nanoparticles were analysed by ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) spectrophotometry, atomic force microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Highly dispersed gold nanoplates were achieved in the order of around 50 nm. Further, the underlying mechanism was found to be controlled by certain extracellular membrane-bound proteins, which was confirmed by Fourier transformation-infrared spectroscopy and sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. We observed that certain membrane-bound peptides are responsible for reduction and subsequent stabilization of Au NPs (confirmed by zeta potential analysis). Upon de-activation of these proteins, no nanoparticle formation was observed. Also, we prepared a novel biocatalyst with Au NPs attached to the membrane-bound fraction ofE. coliK12 cells serving as an efficient heterogeneous catalyst in complete reduction of 4-nitrophenol in the presence of NaBH4which was studied with UV–vis spectroscopy. This is the first report on bacterial membrane-Au NP nanobiocomposite serving as an efficient heterogeneous catalyst in complete reduction of nitroaromatic pollutant in water.
High-density sub-100-nm peptide-gold nanoparticle complexes improve vaccine presentation by dendritic cells in vitro
Authors: Lin Adam Yuh , Lunsford Jessica , Bear Adham Sean , Young Joseph Keith , Eckels Phillip , Luo Laureen , Foster Aaron Edward , Drezek Rebekah Anna
Published: February 2013

Nanocarriers have been explored to improve the delivery of tumor antigens to dendritic cells (DCs). Gold nanoparticles are attractive nanocarriers because they are inert, non-toxic, and can be readily endocytosed by DCs. Here, we designed novel gold-based nanovaccines (AuNVs) using a simple self-assembling bottom-up conjugation method to generate high-peptide density delivery and effective immune responses with limited toxicity. AuNVs were synthesized using a self-assembling conjugation method and optimized using DC-to-splenocyte interferon-γ enzyme-linked immunosorbent spot assays. The AuNV design has shown successful peptide conjugation with approximately 90% yield while remaining smaller than 80 nm in diameter. DCs uptake AuNVs with minimal toxicity and are able to process the vaccine peptides on the particles to stimulate cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). These high-peptide density AuNVs can stimulate CTLs better than free peptides and have great potential as carriers for various vaccine types.
Description of plant tRNA-derived RNA fragments (tRFs) associated with argonaute and identification of their putative targets
Authors: Loss-Morais Guilherme , Waterhouse Peter M , Margis Rogerio
Published: February 2013

tRNA-derived RNA fragments (tRFs) are 19mer small RNAs that associate with Argonaute (AGO) proteins in humans. However, in plants, it is unknown if tRFs bind with AGO proteins. Here, using public deep sequencing libraries of immunoprecipitated Argonaute proteins (AGO-IP) and bioinformatics approaches, we identified the Arabidopsis thaliana AGO-IP tRFs. Moreover, using three degradome deep sequencing libraries, we identified four putative tRF targets. The expression pattern of tRFs, based on deep sequencing data, was also analyzed under abiotic and biotic stresses. The results obtained here represent a useful starting point for future studies on tRFs in plants.
Combined analysis of circulating β-endorphin with gene polymorphisms in OPRM1, CACNAD2 and ABCB1 reveals correlation with pain, opioid sensitivity and opioid-related side effects
Authors: Rhodin Annica , Grönbladh Alfhild , Ginya Harumi , Nilsson Kent W , Rosenblad Andreas , Zhou Qin , Enlund Mats , Hallberg Mathias , Gordh Torsten , Nyberg Fred
Published: February 2013

Background

Opioids are associated with wide inter-individual variability in the analgesic response and a narrow therapeutic index. This may be partly explained by the presence of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes encoding molecular entities involved in opioid metabolism and receptor activation. This paper describes the investigation of SNPs in three genes that have a functional impact on the opioid response: OPRM1, which codes for the μ-opioid receptor; ABCB1 for the ATP-binding cassette B1 transporter enzyme; and the calcium channel complex subunit CACNA2D2. The genotyping was combined with an analysis of plasma levels of the opioid peptide β-endorphin in 80 well-defined patients with chronic low back pain scheduled for spinal fusion surgery, and with differential sensitivity to the opioid analgesic remifentanil. This patient group was compared with 56 healthy controls.

Results

The plasma β-endorphin levels were significantly higher in controls than in pain patients.

A higher incidence of opioid-related side effects and sex differences was found in patients with the minor allele of the ABCB1 gene. Further, a correlation between increased opioid sensitivity and the major CACNA2D2 allele was confirmed. A tendency of a relationship between opioid sensitivity and the minor allele of OPRM1 was also found.

Conclusions

Although the sample cohort in this study was limited to 80 patients it appears that it was possible to observe significant correlations between polymorphism in relevant genes and various items related to pain sensitivity and opioid response. Of particular interest is the new finding of a correlation between increased opioid sensitivity and the major CACNA2D2 allele. These observations may open for improved strategies in the clinical treatment of chronic pain with opioids.
Systems chemistry: using thermodynamically controlled networks to assess molecular similarity
Authors: Saggiomo Vittorio , Hristova Yana R , Ludlow R Frederick , Otto Sijbren
Published: February 2013

Background

The assessment of molecular similarity is a key step in the drug discovery process that has thus far relied almost exclusively on computational approaches. We now report an experimental method for similarity assessment based on dynamic combinatorial chemistry.

Results

In order to assess molecular similarity directly in solution, a dynamic molecular network was used in a two-step process. First, a clustering analysis was employed to determine the network’s innate discriminatory ability. A classification algorithm was then trained to enable the classification of unknowns. The dynamic molecular network used in this work was able to identify thin amines and ammonium ions in a set of 25 different, closely related molecules. After training, it was also able to classify unknown molecules based on the presence or absence of an ethylamine group.

Conclusions

This is the first step in the development of molecular networks capable of predicting bioactivity based on an assessment of molecular similarity.
Using infrared eye-tracking to explore ordinal numerical processing in toddlers with Fragile X Syndrome
Authors: Owen Emily R , Baumgartner Heidi A , Rivera Susan M
Published: February 2013

Background

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common cause of inherited intellectual disability and non-idiopathic autism. Individuals with FXS present with a behavioral phenotype of specific and selective deficits in an array of cognitive skills. Disruption of number processing and arithmetic abilities in higher-functioning adults and female adolescents with FXS has been well established. Still, both numerical skills and developmentally antecedent cognitive processes have just begun to be investigated in toddlers with FXS. The goal of the current study was to assess how very young children with FXS respond to ordinal relationships among numerical magnitudes.

Methods

Infrared eye-tracking was used to explore infants’ novelty recognition during passive viewing of ordinal numerical sequences; t-tests were used to analyze group differences in looking time.

Results

Ordinal recognition of numerical magnitudes is significantly impaired in young toddlers with FXS.

Conclusions

This study is the first to experimentally evaluate early number sense and ordinal recognition in toddlers with FXS, and our findings reveal that ordinal recognition of numerical magnitudes is significantly impaired in young toddlers with FXS, suggesting that later arithmetic impairments associated with FXS may have their origins in a developmental impairment of this more basic aspect of numerical cognition.
Hybrid phenylthiazole and 1,3,5-triazine target cytosolic leucyl-tRNA synthetase for antifungal action as revealed by molecular docking studies
Authors: Singh Udaya Pratap , Bhat Hans Raj , Gahtori Prashant , Singh Ramendra K
Published: February 2013

Background

Leucyl-tRNA synthetase (LeuRS) is one of the essential enzymes belonging to the family of aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (aaRSs), which executes the translation of genetic code by catalyzing the specific attachment of amino acids to their cognate tRNAs. This process is very crucial for survival of micro-organism and thus the inhibition of LeuRS offered a novel and lucrative target for developing new antimicrobials.

Findings

Docking studies using hybrid phenylthiazole-1,3,5-triazine derivatives revealed that these molecules acted as probable inhibitors of candida albicans cytosolic leucyl-tRNA synthetase

Conclusion

The conjugates of phenylthiazole and 1,3,5-triazine can act as lead molecules towards the development of potential leucyl-tRNA synthetase inhibitors on the basis of molecular docking runs, which contribute to the possible mechanism of antifungal activity of these analogues.