bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insulin sensitivity and metabolic flexibility following exercise training among different obese insulin-resistant phenotypes
Authors: Malin Steven K. , Haus Jacob M. , Solomon Thomas P. J. , Blaszczak Alecia , Kashyap Sangeeta R. , Kirwan John P.
Published: September 2013

Impaired fasting glucose (IFG) blunts the reversal of impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) after exercise training. Metabolic inflexibility has been implicated in the etiology of insulin resistance; however, the efficacy of exercise on peripheral and hepatic insulin sensitivity or substrate utilization in adults with IFG, IGT, or IFG + IGT is unknown. Twenty-four older (66.7 ± 0.8 yr) obese (34.2 ± 0.9 kg/m2) adults were categorized as IFG ( n = 8), IGT ( n = 8), or IFG + IGT ( n = 8) according to a 75-g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Subjects underwent 12-wk of exercise (60 min/day for 5 days/wk at ∼85% HRmax) and were instructed to maintain a eucaloric diet. A euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp (40 mU·m2·min−1) with [6,6-2H]glucose was used to determine peripheral and hepatic insulin sensitivity. Nonoxidative glucose disposal and metabolic flexibility [insulin-stimulated respiratory quotient (RQ) minus fasting RQ] were also assessed. Glucose incremental area under the curve (iAUCOGTT) was calculated from the OGTT. Exercise increased clamp-derived peripheral and hepatic insulin sensitivity more in adults with IFG or IGT alone than with IFG + IGT ( P < 0.05). Exercise reduced glucose iAUCOGTT in IGT only ( P < 0.05), and the decrease in glucose iAUCOGTT was inversely correlated with the increase in peripheral but not hepatic insulin sensitivity ( P < 0.01). Increased clamp-derived peripheral insulin sensitivity was also correlated with enhanced metabolic flexibility, reduced fasting RQ, and higher nonoxidative glucose disposal ( P < 0.05). Adults with IFG + IGT had smaller gains in clamp-derived peripheral insulin sensitivity and metabolic flexibility, which was related to blunted improvements in postprandial glucose. Additional work is required to assess the molecular mechanism(s) by which chronic hyperglycemia modifies insulin sensitivity following exercise training.
Characterization andIn VivoBiological Performance of Biosilicate
Authors: Renno Ana Claudia M. , Bossini Paulo Sérgio , Crovace Murilo C. , Rodrigues Ana Candida M. , Zanotto Edgar Dutra , Parizotto Nivaldo Antonio
Published: September 2013

After an introduction showing the growing interest in glasses and glass-ceramics as biomaterials used for bone healing, we describe a new biomaterial named Biosilicate. Biosilicate is the designation of a group of fully crystallized glass-ceramics of the Na2O-CaO-SiO2-P2O5system. Severalin vitrotests have shown that Biosilicate is a very active biomaterial and that the HCA layer is formed in less than 24 hours of exposure to “simulated body fluid” (SBF) solution. Also,in vitrostudies with osteoblastic cells have shown that Biosilicate disks supported significantly larger areas of calcified matrix compared to 45S5 Bioglass, indicating that this bioactive glass-ceramic may promote enhancement ofin vitrobone-like tissue formation in osteogenic cell cultures. Finally, due to its special characteristics, Biosilicate has also been successfully tested in severalin vivostudies. These studies revealed that the material is biocompatible, presents excellent bioactive properties, and is effective to stimulate the deposition of newly formed bone in animal models. All these data highlight the huge potential of Biosilicate to be used in bone regeneration applications.
Application of Bioinformatics in Chronobiology Research
Authors: Lopes Robson da Silva , Resende Nathalia Maria , Honorio-França Adenilda Cristina , França Eduardo Luzía
Published: September 2013

Bioinformatics and other well‐established sciences, such as molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry, provide a scientific approach for the analysis of data generated through “omics” projects that may be used in studies of chronobiology. The results of studies that apply these techniques demonstrate how they significantly aided the understanding of chronobiology. However, bioinformatics tools alone cannot eliminate the need for an understanding of the field of research or the data to be considered, nor can such tools replace analysts and researchers. It is often necessary to conduct an evaluation of the results of a data mining effort to determine the degree of reliability. To this end, familiarity with the field of investigation is necessary. It is evident that the knowledge that has been accumulated through chronobiology and the use of tools derived from bioinformatics has contributed to the recognition and understanding of the patterns and biological rhythms found in living organisms. The current work aims to develop new and important applications in the near future through chronobiology research.
Restoring Esthetics after Anterior Tooth Loss for a Five-Year-Old Child: Natural Tooth Pontic Fiber Reinforced Prosthesis
Authors: Goel Dhirja , Goel Gaurav Kumar
Published: September 2013

The loss of anterior teeth can be hurtful to the patient both psychologically and socially. As the children are becoming more aware these days, they have also become conscious about their looks. Early loss of deciduous anterior teeth has a psychological effect on many children. In such young patients, paper replacement of the teeth can minimize these concerns. Many approaches have been described for this temporary replacement. This article describes the technique to use extracted natural teeth as pontics bonded to adjacent teeth with fiber reinforced resin. A fiber reinforced temporary replacement of missing teeth provides adequate strength and esthetic requirements in such cases.
Cyclic Bicytopenia in a Patient with Shapiro Syndrome
Authors: Roeker Lindsey E. , Gupta Vinay , Gonsalves Wilson I. , Wolanskyj Alexandra P. , Gangat Naseema
Published: September 2013

Shapiro syndrome and periodic hypothermia have been reported approximately fifty times in the literature. Shapiro syndrome is defined as the constellation of periodic hypothermia and hyperhidrosis along with agenesis of the corpus callosum by Shapiro et al. in 1969. Periodic hypothermia is a more broad diagnosis with a number of proposed mechanisms; it occurs in patients without structural brain abnormalities. Hematologic abnormalities beyond iron-deficiency anemia have not been documented in any of the reported cases of Shapiro syndrome or periodic hypothermia. Though accidental and therapeutic hypothermia have been associated with thrombocytopenia, this is, to our knowledge, the first reported case of periodic intrinsic hypothermia causing bicytopenia. In this report, we present the case of a patient with Shapiro syndrome who experienced cyclic bicytopenia mirroring hypothermic episodes. We address the differential diagnosis of bicytopenia, review the mechanisms proposed for cytopenias related to hypothermia, and propose possible mechanisms for the finding in this case.
Anti‐Inflammatory, Analgesic Evaluation and Molecular Docking Studies of N‐Phenyl Anthranilic Acid‐Based 1,3,4‐Oxadiazole Analogues
Authors: Bala Suman , Kamboj Sunil , Saini Vipin , Prasad D. N.
Published: September 2013

A novel series of N‐phenyl anthranilic acid‐based 1,3,4‐oxadiazoles were prepared (4a–h) and subjected to anti‐inflammatory, analgesic activity and molecular docking studies to target cyclooxygenase‐2 enzyme. 1,3,4‐Oxadiazole derivatives were screened for anti‐inflammatory activity in carrageenan‐induced rat paw edema and analgesic activity by tail immersion method. In synthesized compounds, the free carboxylic group, which is responsible for gastric side effects, was derivatized by heterocyclic 1,3,4‐oxadiazole bioactive core, which showed good interaction with COX‐2 receptor with good docking score. Among all the synthesized compounds, 4e and 4f have emerged out as potential COX‐2 inhibitors.
A Structured and Flexible Language for Physical Activity Assessment and Characterization
Authors: Silva Pedro , Andrade Maria Teresa , Carvalho Pedro , Mota Jorge
Published: September 2013

Developing more accurate assessments of physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB) is an important public health research priority. Assessing PA and SB is challenging in all segments of the population, but it is especially difficult in children due to cognitive limitations and more sporadic and intermittent activity patterns. Moreover, they are influenced by several factors including temporal-spatial constraints and social conditions. To accurately assess PA and SB, it is essential to clearly define methods for describing all these factors. The goal of this paper is to potentiate advances in the field by proposing a base ontology for characterizing physical activity, sedentary behavior, and the context in which it occurs. The ontology would establish a flexible base language to facilitate standardized descriptions of these behaviors for researchers and public health professionals.
A Sensitive and Selective Method for Determination of Aesculin in Cortex Fraxini by Liquid Chromatography Quadrupole Time-of-Flight Tandem Mass Spectrometry and Application in Pharmacokinetic Study
Authors: Li Yi , Guo Hui , Wu Yinying , Geng Qianqian , Dong Danfeng , Wu Huili , Li Enxiao
Published: September 2013

A rapid and sensitive method for determining aesculin of Cortex fraxini in rat was developed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) quadrupole time-of-flight (QTOF) tandem mass (MS/MS). Rat plasma was pretreated by fourfold methanol to remove plasma proteins. Chromatographic separation was performed on a reverse phase column. A tandem mass spectrometric detection with an electrospray ionization (ESI) interface was achieved using collision-induced dissociation (CID) under positive ionization mode. The MS/MS patterns monitored werem/z341.2716 →m/z179.1043 for aesculin andm/z248.3025 →m/z120.9130 for tinidazole (internal standard). The linear range was calculated to be 10.0–1500.0 ng/mL with a detection limit of 2.0 ng/mL. The inter- and intraday accuracy and precision were within ±7.0%. Pharmacokinetic study showed that aesculin was confirmed to be a one-compartment open model. The method is believed to have good linear range, high sensitivity and recoveries, and superior analytical efficiency. It will probably be an alternative for pharmacokinetic study of aesculin.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Novel Fluorinated 2‐Styrylchromones as Antibacterial Agents
Authors: Momin Mehbub , Ramjugernath Deresh , Chenia Hafizah , Koorbanally Neil A.
Published: September 2013

A range of fluorinated 2‐styrylchromones (5a–g) of which six were new (5a–f) were prepared in three steps using the Baker‐Venkataraman rearrangement along with two methoxylated derivatives (5h-i) and a methylenedioxy derivative (5j) and screened for their antibacterial activity using Gram‐positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, sciuri, and xylosus as well as Bacillus subtilis) and Gram‐negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumonia). The compounds were most effective against B. subtilis followed by S. aureus and a single strain of E. coli (ATCC 25922). Difluorination on the phenyl ring was shown to enhance antibacterial activity, and fluorine substitution at the 6 position was shown to be far superior to substitution at the 7 position. In comparison to tetracycline, the activity indices of the fluorinated styrylchromones ranged from 0.50 to 0.75 against B. subtilis. The crystal structure of 2′‐fluoro‐2‐styrylchromone is also presented, and the molecule was shown to be planar.
A Simulation Study of the Far-Infrared Absorption Spectra of HCl Diluted in Liquid Ar
Authors: Padilla A. , Pérez J.
Published: September 2013

The far-infrared absorption coefficient of HCl diluted in liquid Ar has been calculated by using a mixed classical-quantum stochastic simulation approach. The simulated spectra have been compared with the available experimental data at different thermodynamic conditions without using ad hoc fitting parameters. Despite the fact that some discrepancies can be observed in the high frequency side of the far-infrared bands, a reasonable agreement has been found between the theoretical and the experimental spectral profiles. Both, classical and quantum simulated line shapes were comparatively analyzed, determining the time scales involved in the rotational spectra.
Comparison of Two Impact Simulation Methods Used for Nonlinear Vibroimpact Systems with Rigid and Soft Impacts
Authors: Bazhenov V. A. , Pogorelova O. S. , Postnikova T. G.
Published: September 2013

This paper compares the use of two impact simulation methods for two-degree-of-freedom nonlinear vibroimpact systems with rigid and soft impacts. These methods are (I) impact simulation by boundary conditions with the use of Newton's restitution coefficient based on stereomechanic shock theory and (II) impact simulation by contact interaction force based on quasistatic Hertz's contact theory. It is
shown that both methods are applied and give the coinciding results for system with elastic rigid impact under periodic external loading. Loading curves built by parameter continuation method are confirming this result. Impact simulation by the second method is also fulfilled for vibroimpact system with rigid impact under random external loading. For vibroimpact system with soft impact, the simulation of impact by the second method gives a better result. The application of linear elastic force as contact one is possible too but the use of Hertz's contact force is more preferable. The authors consider that the impact simulation by Hertz contact interaction force gives good results for nonlinear vibroimpact systems with impacts of any kind if all limitations with Hertz's law used are observed.
Production of the Quinone-Methide Triterpene Maytenin byIn VitroAdventitious Roots ofPeritassa campestris(Cambess.) A.C.Sm. (Celastraceae) and Rapid Detection and Identification by APCI-IT-MS/MS
Authors: Paz Tiago Antunes , dos Santos Vânia A. F. F. M. , Inácio Marielle Cascaes , Pina Edieidia Souza , Pereira Ana Maria Soares , Furlan Maysa
Published: September 2013

Establishment of adventitious root cultures ofPeritassa campestris(Celastraceae) was achieved from seed cotyledons cultured in semisolid Woody Plant Medium (WPM) supplemented with 2% sucrose, 0.01% PVP, and 4.0 mg L−1IBA. Culture period on accumulation of biomass and quinone-methide triterpene maytenin in adventitious root were investigated. The accumulation of maytenin in these roots was compared with its accumulation in the roots of seedlings grown in a greenhouse (one year old). A rapid detection and identification of maytenin by direct injection into an atmospheric-pressure chemical ionization ion trap tandem mass spectrometer (APCI-IT-MS/MS) were performed without prior chromatographic separation.In vitro, the greatest accumulation of biomass occurred within 60 days of culture. The highest level of maytenin—972.11 μg·g−1dry weight—was detected at seven days of cultivation; this value was 5.55-fold higher than that found in the roots of seedlings grown in a greenhouse.
Visceral Arterial Aneurysms Complicating Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography
Authors: Gaduputi Vinaya , Tariq Hassan , Dev Anil
Published: September 2013

We report this case of a 74-year-old man with altered anatomy secondary to Billroth-II surgery who underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for choledocholithiasis and subsequently developed severe diffuse abdominal pain with drop in hemoglobin. Patient was found to have hemorrhagic shock requiring aggressive resuscitative measures. Patient was found to have large peripancreatic hematoma secondary to bleeding from gastroduodenal and superior pancreaticoduodenal artery pseudoaneurysms. Gastroduodenal artery aneurysm is the rarest of all the splanchnic artery aneurysms, and to our knowledge this is the only reported case of a gastroduodenal artery pseudoaneurysm complicating ERCP.
Risk of Cancer in Diabetes: The Effect of Metformin
Authors: Malek Mojtaba , Aghili Rokhsareh , Emami Zahra , Khamseh Mohammad E.
Published: September 2013

Cancer is the second cause of death. Association of diabetes as a growing and costly disease with cancer is a major health concern. Meanwhile, preexisting diabetes is associated with an increased risk of all-cause and cancer-specific mortalities. Presence of diabetes related comorbidities, poorer response to cancer treatment, and excess mortality related to diabetes are among the most important explanations. Although diabetes appear to be a risk factor for cancer and is associated with the mortality risk in cancer patients, several factors such as diabetes duration, multiple drug therapy, and the presence of diabetes comorbidities make the assessment of the effect of diabetes treatment on cancer risk and mortality difficult. Metformin is the drug of choice for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. The available evidence from basic science, clinical, and population-based research supports the anticancer effect of metformin. However, randomized controlled clinical trials do not provide enough evidence for a strong protective effect of metformin on cancer incidence or mortality. One of the most important limitations of these trials is the short duration of the followup. Further long-term randomized controlled clinical trials specifically designed to determine metformin effect on cancer risk are needed to provide the best answer to this challenge.
Noncrystalline Binder Based Composite Propellant
Authors: Abdullah Mohamed , Gholamian F. , Zarei A. R.
Published: September 2013

This study reports on propellants based on cross-linked HTPE binder plasticized with butyl nitroxyethylnitramine (BuNENA) as energetic material and HP 4000D as noncrystalline prepolymer. This binder was conducted with solid loading in the 85%. The results showed an improvement in processability, mechanical properties and burning rate. In addition, its propellant delivers (about 6 seconds) higher performance (specific impulse) than the best existing composite solid rocket propellant. Thermal analyses have performed by (DSC, TGA). The thermal curves have showed a low glass transition temperature () of propellant samples, and there was no sign of binder polymer crystallization at low temperatures (−50°C). Due to its high molecular weight and unsymmetrical or random molecule distributions, the polyether (HP 4000D) has been enhanced the mechanical properties of propellants binder polymer over a large range of temperatures [−50, 50°C]. The propellants described in this paper have presented high volumetric specific impulse (>500 s·gr·cc−1). These factors combined make BuNENA based composite propellant a potentially attractive alternative for a number of missions demanding composite solid propellants.
Ultimate Seismic Resistance Capacity for Long Span Lattice Structures under Vertical Ground Motions
Authors: Taniguchi Yoshiya
Published: September 2013

Seismic resistance capacities of frame structures have been discussed with equilibrium of energies among many researchers. The early one is the limit design presented by Housner, 1956; that is, frame structures should possess the plastic deformation ability equivalent to an earthquake input energy given by a velocity response spectrum. On such studies of response estimation by the energy equilibrium, the potential energy has been generally abandoned, since the effect of self-weight or fixed loads on the potential energy is negligible, while ordinary buildings usually sway in the horizontal direction. However, it could be said that the effect of gravity has to be considered for long span structures since the mass might be concerned with the vertical response. In this paper, as for ultimate seismic resistance capacity of long span structures, an estimation method considering the potential energy is discussed as for plane lattice beams and double-layer cylindrical lattice roofs. The method presented can be done with the information of static nonlinear behavior, natural periods, and velocity response spectrum of seismic motions; that is, any complicated nonlinear time history analysis is not required. The value estimated can be modified with the properties of strain energy absorption and the safety static factor.
Damped Algorithms for the Split Fixed Point and Equilibrium Problems
Authors: Zhu Li-Jun , Ren Minglun
Published: September 2013

The main purpose of this paper is to study the split fixed point and equilibrium problems which includes fixed point problems, equilibrium problems, and variational inequality problems as special cases. A damped algorithm is presented for solving this split common problem. Strong convergence analysis is shown.
The Multifaceted Aspects of Interstitial Lung Disease in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Cavagna Lorenzo , Monti Sara , Grosso Vittorio , Boffini Nicola , Scorletti Eva , Crepaldi Gloria , Caporali Roberto
Published: September 2013

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a relevant extra-articular manifestation of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) that may occur either in early stages or as a complication of long-standing disease. RA related ILD (RA-ILD) significantly influences thequoad vitamprognosis of these patients. Several histopathological patterns of RA-ILD have been described: usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) is the most frequent one, followed by nonspecific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP); other patterns are less commonly observed. Several factors have been associated with an increased risk of developing RA-ILD. The genetic background plays a fundamental but not sufficient role; smoking is an independent predictor of ILD, and a correlation with the presence of rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies has also been reported. Moreover, bothexnovooccurrence and progression of ILD have been related to drug therapies that are commonly prescribed in RA, such as methotrexate, leflunomide, anti-TNF alpha agents, and rituximab. A greater understanding of the disease process is necessary in order to improve the therapeutic approach to ILD and RA itself and to reduce the burden of this severe extra-articular manifestation.
Salmonella entericaSerotype Arizonae Meningitis in a Neonate
Authors: Lakew Wubishet , Girma Abayneh , Triche Elizabeth
Published: September 2013

Typhoidal and nontyphoidal salmonella infections are common causes of gastroenteritis in the community. However, salmonella only rarely causes invasive infections like meningitis. We report a 13-day-old female neonate with signs and symptoms of meningitis whose cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) culture showedSalmonella entericaserotype Arizonae that was sensitive to ceftriaxone. She presented with fever and failure to feed for 2 days. Despite prompt treatment with ampicillin, gentamicin, and ceftriaxone, she developed communicating hydrocephalus, frequent seizures, and coma that progressed to death after 2 weeks of hospitalization.Salmonella entericaserotype Arizonae is a rare cause of human infection known to leading to meningitis symptoms similar to those caused by other salmonella species. This is the first report of it as a cause of meningitis in a child under one month of age. Therefore, it should be included in the differential diagnosis of Gram-negative bacillary meningitis in immunocompromised children, neonates, and those with contacts with reptiles.
Metabolic Dysregulation of the Insulin–Glucose Axis and Risk of Obesity-Related Cancers in the Framingham Heart Study-Offspring Cohort (1971–2008)
Authors: Parekh Niyati , Lin Yong , Vadiveloo Maya , Hayes Richard B. , Lu-Yao Grace L.
Published: September 2013

Background: Obesity-related dysregulation of the insulin–glucose axis is hypothesized in carcinogenesis. We studied impaired fasting glucose (IFG) and other markers of insulin–glucose metabolism in the Framingham Heart Study-Offspring Cohort, which uniquely tracks these markers and cancer >37 years.

Methods: Participants were recruited between 1971 and 1975 and followed until 2008 (n = 4,615; mean age 66.8 years in 2008). Serum glucose, insulin, and hemoglobin A1c were determined from fasting blood in quart-annual exams. Lifestyle and demographic information was self-reported. HRs and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of cancer risk were computed using time-dependent survival analysis (SASv9.3), while accounting for temporal changes for relevant variables.

Results: We identified 787 obesity-related cancers, including 136 colorectal, 217 breast, and 219 prostate cancers. Absence versus presence of IFG 10 to 20 years and 20+ years before the event or last follow-up was associated with 44% (95% CI, 1.15–1.79) and 57% (95% CI, 1.17–2.11) increased risk of obesity-related cancers, respectively. When time-dependent variables were used, after adjusting for age, sex, smoking, alcohol, and body mass index, IFG was associated with a 27% increased risk of obesity-related cancer (HR = 1.27; CI, 1.1–1.5). Associations were stronger in smokers (HR = 1.41; CI, 1.13–1.76). Increased risk was noted among persons with higher insulin (HR = 1.47; CI, 1.15–1.88) and hemoglobin A1c (HR = 1.54; CI, 1.13–2.10) for the highest (≥5.73%) versus lowest (≤5.25%) category. A >2-fold increase in colorectal cancer risk was observed for all blood biomarkers of insulin–glucose metabolism, particularly with earlier IFG exposure. Nonsignificant increased risk of breast and prostate cancer was observed for blood biomarkers.

Conclusions: Earlier IFG exposure (>10 years before) increased obesity-related cancer risk, particularly for colorectal cancer.

Impact: Our study explicitly recognizes the importance of prolonged IFG exposure in identifying links between glucose dysregulation and obesity-related cancers. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(10); 1825–36. ©2013 AACR.
Thirteen-Year Vitreoretinal Surgical Outcomes of 5,097 Cases from a Tertiary Referral Center in Turkey
Authors: Teke Mehmet Yasin , Balikoglu-Yilmaz Melike , Yuksekkaya Pinar , Citirik Mehmet , Elgin Ufuk , Ozdal Pinar , Yenigun Sule , Sen Emine , Ozturk Faruk
Published: September 2013

A 13-year retrospective chart review of 5,097 consecutive cases that underwent pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) in a tertiary referral center in Turkey was performed. Age at onset, sex, laterality, associated systemic disease, pre- and postoperative visual acuities (VA), indications, type of surgery and outcomes of surgery were analyzed. The most common indications for vitreoretinal surgery (VRS) were rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (n = 1,802, 35.4%) and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (n = 1,505, 29.5%). The most common vitreoretinal technique combinations performed were PPV with encircling endolaser (EL) and phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation (33.0%), PPV with encircling EL (30.4%), and only PPV (7.0%). A statistically significant increase in the mean VA was noted at the first- (1.16 ± 0.44 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution, logMAR) and sixth-month (1.06 ± 0.61 logMAR) visits when compared to the preoperative VA (1.77 ± 0.58 logMAR; p < 0.001). Comparisons in the top surgical indications, techniques and outcomes for vitrectomy between the countries could be important for the development of subspecialization in VRS.
Type IV Pilus of Pseudomonasaeruginosa Confers Resistance to Antimicrobial Activities of the Pulmonary Surfactant Protein-A
Authors: Tan Rommel Max , Kuang Zhizhou , Hao Yonghua , Lau Gee W.
Published: September 2013

Pseudomonasaeruginosa(PA) is a Gram-negative bacterial pathogen commonly associated with chronic lung infections. Previously, we have identified several PA virulence factors that are important for resistance to the surfactant protein-A (SP-A), a pulmonary innate immunity protein that mediates bacterial opsonization and membrane permeabilization. In this study, we demonstrate that the type IV pilus (Tfp) is important in the resistance of PA to the antibacterial effects of SP-A. The Tfp-deficient mutant ΔpilA is severely attenuated in an acute pneumonia model of infection in the lungs of wild-type mice, but is virulent in the lungs of SP-A-/- mice. The ΔpilA bacteria are more susceptible to SP-A-mediated aggregation and opsonization. In addition, the integrity of the outer membranes of ΔpilA bacteria is compromised, rendering them more susceptible to SP-A-mediated membrane permeabilization. By comparing Tfp extension and retraction mutants, we demonstrate that the increased susceptibility of ΔpilA to SP-A-mediated opsonization requires the total absence of Tfp from PA cells. Finally, we provide evidence of increased expression of nonpilus adhesin OprH that may serve as an SP-A ligand, resulting in increased phagocytosis and preferential pulmonary clearance of ΔpilA.
The Intimate and the Immersive in Grids: Multichannel Sound Installations
Authors: Batchelor Peter
Published: September 2013

The author discusses his purpose-built visual and spatial environments that are designed to increase a listener's awareness of his or her sonic surroundings.
Plasticities and Ghosts: Relationships between Stimulus and Memory in Noisy Networks
Authors: Grant Jane , Matthias John
Published: September 2013

This paper examines aspects of neurological memory, rhythm and time within the works Ghost (Jane Grant) and Plasticity (Jane Grant, John Matthias, Nick Ryan and Kin).
Fragments of Extinction: Acoustic Biodiversity of Primary Rainforest Ecosystems
Authors: Monacchi David
Published: September 2013

This paper describes the conceptual origins and development of the author's ongoing environmental sound-art project Fragments of Extinction, which explores the eco-acoustic complexity of the remaining intact equatorial forests. Crossing boundaries between bioacoustics, acoustic ecology, electroacoustic technology and music composition, the project aims to reveal the ordered structures of nature's sonic habitats, define a possible model of compositional integration and make the outcome accessible to audiences to foster awareness on the current “sixth mass extinction.”
Move That Sound There: Exploring Sound in Space with a Markerless Gestural Interface
Authors: Fan Yuan-Yi , Minnen David
Published: September 2013

The authors describe an artistic exploration of sound in space enabled by real-time computer vision algorithms that provide hand shape and 3D hand-tracking information.
Flexible Audio Speakers for Composition and Art Practice
Authors: Rowland Jess
Published: September 2013

The author presents a creative and technical practice using flat flexible audio speaker surface arrays. These arrays can be formed to various environments, offer diverse design possibilities and allow for user interaction. This practice provides an alternative to traditional models of sound reproduction by considering how visual and physical material could be construed as sound itself. Taken as art material, these surface array systems open up unique possibilities for acoustic spaces, composition and sound interactivity.
The oldest herpetological collection in the world: the surviving amphibian and reptile specimens of the Museum of Ulisse Aldrovandi
Authors: Bauer Aaron M. , Ceregato Alessandro , Delfino Massimo
Published: September 2013

The natural history collection of the Bolognese polymath, encyclopedist, and natural philosopher Ulisse Aldrovandi (1522-1605) is regarded as the first museum in the modern sense of the term. It was intended as a resource for scholarship and a microcosm of the natural world, not simply a cabinet of curiosities. In addition to physical specimens, Aldrovandi’s zoological material included a large series of paintings of animals (Tavole di Animali) that were integral to the collection. Following Aldrovandi’s death, his collection was maintained by the terms of his will, but by the 19th century relatively little remained. We examined surviving herpetological components of the collection, comprising 19 specimens of ten species, as well as the corresponding paintings and associated archival material in the Museum of Palazzo Poggi, Museo di Zoologia, and Biblioteca Universitaria Bolognese in Bologna, Italy. Although the antiquity of some of these dried preparations is in question, many are documented in the Tavole di Animali and/or are mentioned in 17th century lists of the museum, verifying them as the oldest museum specimens of amphibians and reptiles in the world. Exotic species are best represented, including two specimens of Uromastyx aegyptia and several boid snakes – the first New World reptiles to be displayed in Europe. However, the Tavole di Animali suggest that the original collection was dominated by Italian taxa and that greater effort may have been made to conserve the more spectacular specimens. The Aldrovandi collection provides a tangible link to the dawn of modern herpetology in Renaissance Italy.
Rediscovery of the rare tree frog Hyla inframaculata Boulenger, 1882 (Anura: Hylidae), in Amazonian Brazil with notes on variation and distribution, and its generic allocation
Authors: Hoogmoed Marinus
Published: September 2013

Hyla (= Osteocephalus) inframaculata was described on the basis of one specimen collected more than 130 years ago in the neighbourhood of Santarém, Pará, Brazil. Only in 2001 three new specimens were collected in the Belo Monte area of the Xingu River, Pará, and ten more in late 2011 and 2012 in the same area. The distribution of the species seems to be restricted to “terra firme” (= not flooded) and temporarily flooded forest between the Tapajós and Xingu rivers, in a band south of the Amazon River. The new material deposited in MPEG is described, morphometric data for males, females and a half grown are provided and some conclusions in the literature are corrected. A new diagnosis is presented. The species seems to belong to the genus Dryaderces.
Derivatives, Money, Finance and Imperialism: A Response to Bryan and Rafferty
Authors: Norfield Tony
Published: September 2013

Abstract

This paper contributes to the debate on the role of financial derivatives for capitalism. It responds to Bryan and Rafferty’s defence of their analysis and their critique of my own. The paper argues that their analysis confuses what a financial derivative does, and mixes together different kinds of derivative – and non-derivative – that play very different roles. After detailing these points, the paper discusses the relationship between gold, money and derivatives, rejecting their notion that derivatives are some kind of new ‘commodity money’. An important theme absent from Bryan and Rafferty’s analysis is the relationship of financial trading and derivatives markets to parasitism in the imperialist world economy. To illustrate this, the paper notes advantages enjoyed by the major financial powers – the US and the UK – that are the main centres for the origination of derivatives and for derivatives trading.
Phase Space Parameterization of Rain: The Inadequacy of Gamma Distribution
Authors: Ignaccolo Massimiliano , De Michele Carlo
Published: September 2013

The authors test the adequacy of gamma distribution to describe the statistical variability of raindrop diameters in 1-min disdrometer data using the Kolmogorov–Smirnov goodness-of-fit test. The results do not support the use of this distribution, with a percentage of rejected cases that increases with the sample size. A different parameterization of the drop size distribution is proposed that does not require any particular functional form and is based on the adoption of statistical moments. The first three moments, namely the mean, standard deviation, and skewness, are sufficient to characterize the distribution of the drop diameter at the ground. These parameters, together with the drop count, form a 4-tuple, which fully describes the variability of the drop size distribution. The Cartesian product of this 4-tuple of parameters is the rainfall phase space. Using disdrometer data from 10 different locations, invariant, location-independent properties of rainfall are identified.
Anticoagulation inhibits tumor cell–mediated release of platelet angiogenic proteins and diminishes platelet angiogenic response
Authors: Battinelli Elisabeth M. , Markens Beth A. , Kulenthirarajan Rajesh A. , Machlus Kellie R. , Flaumenhaft Robert , Italiano Joseph E.
Published: September 2013

Key Points

Anticoagulants inhibit release of angiogenic proteins from platelets.
Horizontally acquired divergent O-antigen contributes to escape from cross-immunity in the classical bordetellae
Authors: Hester Sara E , Park Jihye , Goodfield Laura L , Feaga Heather A , Preston Andrew , Harvill Eric T
Published: September 2013

Background

Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) allows for rapid spread of genetic material between species, increasing genetic and phenotypic diversity. Although HGT contributes to adaptation and is widespread in many bacteria, others show little HGT. This study builds on previous work to analyze the evolutionary mechanisms contributing to variation within the locus encoding a prominent antigen of the classical bordetellae.

Results

We observed amongst classical bordetellae discrete regions of the lipopolysaccharide O-antigen locus with higher sequence diversity than the genome average. Regions of this locus had less than 50% sequence similarity, low dN/dS ratios and lower GC content compared to the genome average. Additionally, phylogenetic tree topologies based on genome-wide SNPs were incongruent with those based on genes within these variable regions, suggesting portions of the O-antigen locus may have been horizontally transferred. Furthermore, several predicted recombination breakpoints correspond with the ends of these variable regions. To examine the evolutionary forces that might have selected for this rare example of HGT in bordetellae, we compared in vitro and in vivo phenotypes associated with different O-antigen types. Antibodies against O1- and O2-serotypes were poorly cross-reactive, and did not efficiently kill or mediate clearance of alternative O-type bacteria, while a distinct and poorly immunogenic O-antigen offered no protection against colonization.

Conclusions

This study suggests that O-antigen variation was introduced to the classical bordetellae via HGT through recombination. Additionally, genetic variation may be maintained within the O-antigen locus because it can provide escape from immunity to different O-antigen types, potentially allowing for the circulation of different Bordetella strains within the same host population.
Defining the contribution of SNPs identified in asthma GWAS to clinical variables in asthmatic children
Authors: Tulah Asif S , Holloway John W , Sayers Ian
Published: September 2013

Background

Asthma genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified several asthma susceptibility genes with confidence; however the relative contribution of these genetic variants or single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to clinical endpoints (as opposed to disease diagnosis) remains largely unknown. Thus the aim of this study was to firstly bridge this gap in knowledge and secondly investigate whether these SNPs or those that are in linkage disequilibrium are likely to be functional candidates with respect to regulation of gene expression, using reported data from the ENCODE project.

Methods

Eleven of the key SNPs identified in eight loci from recent asthma GWAS were evaluated for association with asthma and clinical outcomes, including percent predicted FEV1, bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR) to methacholine, severity defined by British Thoracic Society steps and positive response to skin prick test, using the family based association test additive model in a well characterised UK cohort consisting of 370 families with at least two asthmatic children.

Results

GSDMB SNP rs2305480 (Ser311Pro) was associated with asthma diagnosis (p = 8.9×10-4), BHR (p = 8.2×10-4) and severity (p = 1.5×10-4) with supporting evidence from a second GSDMB SNP rs11078927 (intronic). SNPs evaluated in IL33, IL18R1, IL1RL1, SMAD3, IL2RB, PDE4D, CRB1 and RAD50 did not show association with any phenotype tested when corrected for multiple testing. Analysis using ENCODE data provides further insight into the functional relevance of these SNPs.

Conclusions

Our results provide further support for the role of GSDMB SNPs in determining multiple asthma related phenotypes in childhood asthma including associations with lung function and disease severity.
Vitamin D supplementation and mortality risk in chronic kidney disease: a meta-analysis of 20 observational studies
Authors: Zheng Zhenfeng , Shi Huilan , Jia Junya , Li Dong , Lin Shan
Published: September 2013

Background

Vitamin D insufficiency correlates with mortality risk among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The survival benefits of active vitamin D treatment have been assessed in patients with CKD not requiring dialysis and in patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) requiring dialysis.

Methods

MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrance Library, and article reference lists were searched for relevant observational trials. The quality of the studies was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) checklist. Pooled effects were calculated as hazard ratios (HR) using random-effects models.

Results

Twenty studies (11 prospective cohorts, 6 historical cohorts and 3 retrospective cohorts) were included in the meta-analysis., Participants receiving vitamin D had lower mortality compared to those with no treatment (adjusted case mixed baseline model: HR, 0.74; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.67-0.82; P <0.001; time-dependent Cox model: HR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.57-0.89; P <0.001). Participants that received calcitriol (HR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.50-0.79; P <0.001) and paricalcitol (HR, 0.43 95% CI, 0.29-0.63; P <0.001) had a lower cardiovascular mortality. Patients receiving paricalcitol had a survival advantage over those that received calcitriol (HR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.91-0.99; P <0.001).

Conclusions

Vitamin D treatment was associated with decreased risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with CKD not requiring dialysis and patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) requiring dialysis. There was a slight difference in survival depending on the type of vitamin D analogue. Well-designed randomized controlled trials are necessary to assess the survival benefits of vitamin D.
Detection of the GPI-anchorless prion protein fragment PrP226* in human brain
Authors: Dvorakova Eva , Vranac Tanja , Janouskova Olga , Černilec Maja , Koren Simon , Lukan Anja , Nováková Jana , Matej Radoslav , Holada Karel , Čurin Šerbec Vladka
Published: September 2013

Background

The accumulation of the misfolded forms of cellular prion protein, i.e. prions (PrPSc), in the brain is one of the crucial characteristics of fatal neurodegenerative disorders, called transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs). Cellular prion protein is normally linked to the cell surface by the glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor. There is accumulating evidence that the GPI-anchorless prion protein may act as an accelerator of formation and propagation of prions. In the TSE affected human brain we have previously discovered a novel GPI-anchorless prion protein fragment, named PrP226*, which ends with the tyrosine 226. This fragment can be labeled specifically by the monoclonal antibody V5B2.

Methods

We developed a DELFIA based assay for quick and sensitive detection of the PrP226* fragment in human brain tissue homogenates. By calculating the ratio between the signals of native (N) and denatured (D) samples applied to the assay we were able to observe significant difference between 24 TSE affected brains and 10 control brains. The presence of PrP226* in brain tissue was confirmed by western blot.

Results

Our results demonstrate that PrP226* is present in small quantities in healthy human brain, whereas in degenerated brain it accumulates in prion aggregates, proportionally to PrPSc. Samples with high D/N ratio generally comprised more proteinase K resistant PrP, while no correlation was found between the quantity of PrP226* and standard classification of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD).

Conclusions

In the present study we show that the PrP226* fragment accumulates in prion aggregates and after being released from them by a denaturation procedure, could serve as a proteinase K digestion independent biomarker for human TSEs. The PrP226* assay described in this paper offers a tool to follow and study this unique anchorless PrP fragment in various parts of human brain and possibly also in other tissues and body fluids.
Regular three-dimensional presentations improve in the identification of surgical liver anatomy – a randomized study
Authors: Müller-Stich Beat P , Löb Nicole , Wald Diana , Bruckner Thomas , Meinzer Hans-Peter , Kadmon Martina , Büchler Markus W , Fischer Lars
Published: September 2013

Background

Three-dimensional (3D) presentations enhance the understanding of complex anatomical structures. However, it has been shown that two dimensional (2D) “key views” of anatomical structures may suffice in order to improve spatial understanding. The impact of real 3D images (3Dr) visible only with 3D glasses has not been examined yet. Contrary to 3Dr, regular 3D images apply techniques such as shadows and different grades of transparency to create the impression of 3D.

This randomized study aimed to define the impact of both the addition of key views to CT images (2D+) and the use of 3Dr on the identification of liver anatomy in comparison with regular 3D presentations (3D).

Methods

A computer-based teaching module (TM) was used. Medical students were randomized to three groups (2D+ or 3Dr or 3D) and asked to answer 11 anatomical questions and 4 evaluative questions. Both 3D groups had animated models of the human liver available to them which could be moved in all directions.

Results

156 medical students (57.7% female) participated in this randomized trial. Students exposed to 3Dr and 3D performed significantly better than those exposed to 2D+ (p < 0.01, ANOVA). There were no significant differences between 3D and 3Dr and no significant gender differences (p > 0.1, t-test). Students randomized to 3D and 3Dr not only had significantly better results, but they also were significantly faster in answering the 11 anatomical questions when compared to students randomized to 2D+ (p < 0.03, ANOVA). Whether or not “key views” were used had no significant impact on the number of correct answers (p > 0.3, t-test).

Conclusion

This randomized trial confirms that regular 3D visualization improve the identification of liver anatomy.