bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of licochalcone A on thymic stromal lymphopoietin expression: Implications for asthma
Authors: Kim Sung-Ho , Yang Min , Xu Jian-Gang , Yu Xi , Qian Xue-Jiao
Published: July 2014

Asthma is a common chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the infiltration and accumulation of memory-like Th2 cells and eosinophils. Viral infection has emerged as the most common cause of severe episodes of asthma. For the treatment of bronchial asthma, the root of liquorice ( Glycyrrhiza glabra) has been used as a traditional medicine in the East and West. Licochalcone A is the predominant, characteristic chalcone in liquorice root. To determine whether licochalcone A possesses an anti-inflammatory effect, we tested its effect on the expression and production of thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) in BEAS 2B cells and primary bronchial epithelial cells. We found that polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly-IC)-induced TSLP expression was suppressed by treatment with licochalcone A in a dose- and time-dependent manner. We also found that poly-IC-induced mRNA expression of other proinflammatory mediators such as MCP-1, RANTES, and IL-8 was suppressed by licochalcone A. Furthermore, licochalcone A suppressed poly-IC-induced nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) nuclear translocation and DNA-binding activity by suppressing the Iκβ kinase (IKK) activity but not by direct phosphorylation of p65 at serine 276. Collectively, our findings suggest that licochalcone A suppresses poly-IC-induced TSLP expression and production by inhibiting the IKK/NF-κB signaling pathway, which might be involved in the pathogenesis of virus-exacerbated asthma. Further elucidation of the mechanisms underlying these observations can help develop therapeutic strategies for virally induced asthma.
Novel Totally Laparoscopic Endolumenal Rectal Resection With Transanal Natural Orifice Specimen Extraction (NOSE) Without Rectal Stump Opening
Authors: Kvasha Anton , Hadary Amram , Biswas Seema , Szvalb Sergio , Willenz Udi , Waksman Igor
Published: July 2014

Our group has recently described a novel technique for clean endolumenal bowel resection, in which abdominal and transanal approaches were used. In the current study, 2 modifications of this procedure were tested for feasibility in a porcine model. A laparoscopic approach to the peritoneal cavity was employed in rectal mobilization; this was followed by a transanal rectorectal intussusception and pull-through (IPT). IPT was established in a stepwise fashion. First, the proximal margin of resection was attached to the shaft of the anvil of an end-to-end circular stapler with a ligature around the rectum. Second, this complex was pulled transanally to produce IPT. Once IPT was established, a second ligature was placed around the rectum approximating the proximal and distal resection margins. This was followed by a purse string suture through 2 bowel walls, encircling the shaft of the anvil just proximal to the ligatures. The specimen was resected and extracted by making a full-thickness incision through the 2 bowel walls distal to the previously placed purse string suture and ligatures. The anastomosis was achieved by applying the stapler. The technique was found to be feasible. Peritoneal samples, collected after transanal specimen extraction, did not demonstrate bacterial growth. Although, this is a novel and evolving procedure, its minimally invasive nature, as well as aseptic bowel manipulation during endolumenal rectal resection, has the potential to limit the complications associated with abdominal wall incision and surgical site infection.
The efficacy of cetuximab in a tissue-engineered three-dimensional in vitro model of colorectal cancer
Authors: Magdeldin Tarig , López-Dávila Víctor , Villemant Cecile , Cameron Grant , Drake Rosemary , Cheema Umber , Loizidou Marilena
Published: July 2014

The preclinical development process of chemotherapeutic drugs is often carried out in two-dimensional monolayer cultures. However, a considerable amount of evidence demonstrates that two-dimensional cell culture does not accurately reflect the three-dimensional in vivo tumour microenvironment, specifically with regard to gene expression profiles, oxygen and nutrient gradients and pharmacokinetics. With this objective in mind, we have developed and established a physiologically relevant three-dimensional in vitro model of colorectal cancer based on the removal of interstitial fluid from collagen type I hydrogels. We employed the RAFT™ (Real Architecture For 3D Tissue) system for producing three-dimensional cultures to create a controlled reproducible, multiwell testing platform. Using the HT29 and HCT116 cell lines to model epidermal growth factor receptor expressing colorectal cancers, we characterized three-dimensional cell growth and morphology in addition to the anti-proliferative effects of the anti–epidermal growth factor receptor chemotherapeutic agent cetuximab in comparison to two-dimensional monolayer cultures. Cells proliferated well for 14 days in three-dimensional culture and formed well-defined cellular aggregates within the concentrated collagen matrix. Epidermal growth factor receptor expression levels revealed a twofold and threefold increase in three-dimensional cultures for both HT29 and HCT116 cells in comparison to two-dimensional monolayers, respectively ( p < 0.05; p < 0.01). Cetuximab efficacy was significantly lower in HT29 three-dimensional cultures in comparison to two-dimensional monolayers, whereas HCT116 cells in both two-dimension and three-dimension were non-responsive to treatment in agreement with their KRAS mutant status. In summary, these results confirm the use of a three-dimensional in vitro cancer model as a suitable drug-screening platform for in vitro pharmacological testing.
Size Matters Stature Is Related to Diagnoses of Depression in Young Military Men
Authors: Krupnik Valery , Cherkasova Mariya V.
Published: July 2014

Evolutionary theories suggest that depression has evolved as an adaptation to insurmountable adversity or defeat. One prediction stemming from these models is that individual attributes associated with defeat in a given social environment could be risk factors for depression. We hypothesized that in young military men, where physical prowess was important, short stature might constitute a risk of depression and that this risk would be specific to depression and not to other prevalent mental disorders such as anxiety. A preliminary analysis of the diagnostic profile of a sample of male military personnel treated for mental health indicates that men both shorter and taller than average by 1 standard deviation may be predisposed to higher rates of depressive but not anxiety disorders. Practical and theoretical implications of our findings are discussed.
‘Red Ruby’: an interactive web-based intervention for lifestyle modification on metabolic syndrome: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jahangiry Leila , Shojaeizadeh Davoud , Najafi Mahdi , Mohammad Kazem , Abbasalizad Farhangi Mahdieh , Montazeri Ali
Published: July 2014

Background

Although effectiveness of web-based interventions on lifestyle changes are recognized, the potential of such programs on metabolic syndrome has not been explored. We describe the protocol of a randomized controlled trial that aims to determine the feasibility, acceptability, usability, and effectiveness of interactive technology on lifestyle intervention in a population with metabolic syndrome.

Methods/design

This is a two-arm randomized controlled trial. The study includes 160 participants (n = 80 per arm) who will be recruited via online registration on the study website. The inclusion criteria are that they should have metabolic syndrome and have access to the Internet. All participants will receive information on dietary intake and physical activity through the study website. The intervention group will receive additional resources via the study website including interactive Healthy Heart Profile and calorie restricted diet tailored to the participants. The primary outcomes are feasibility, acceptability, usability, and the change in metabolic syndrome components. The secondary outcomes are comparing quality of life, physical activity and food intake among the study arms. The participants will be followed up to 6 months with data collection scheduled at baseline, 3 and 6 months.

Discussion

There is a need for developing and evaluating web-based interventions that target people with high risk for cardiovascular diseases. This study will therefore make an important contribution to this novel field of research and practice.

Trial registration

IRCT201111198132N1
Use of 1H-nuclear magnetic resonance to screen a set of biomarkers for monitoring metabolic disturbances in severe burn patients
Authors: Zhang Yong , Cai Bin , Jiang Hua , Yan Hong , Yang Hao , Peng Jin , Wang Wenyuan , Ma Siyuan , Wu Xiuwen , Peng Xi
Published: July 2014

Introduction

To establish a plasma metabolomics fingerprint spectrum for severe burn patients and to use it to identify a set of biomarkers that could be used for clinical monitoring.

Methods

Twenty-one severe burn patients and three healthy control individuals were enrolled in this study, and the plasma samples from patients and healthy individuals were collected for nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) measurements. The NMR spectra were analyzed using principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares (PLS) in order to establish the metabolomics fingerprint representing the changes in metabolism and to select the major biomarkers.

Results

NMR spectra of the plasma samples showed significant differences between burn patients and healthy individuals. Using metabolomics techniques, we found an Eigen-metabolome that consists of 12 metabolites, which are regulated by 103 enzymes in a global metabolic network. Among these metabolites, α-ketoisovaleric acid, 3-methylhistidine, and β-hydroxybutyric acid were the most important biomarkers that were significantly increased during the early stage of burn injury. These results suggest that the mitochondrial damage and carbohydrate, protein and fatty acid metabolism disturbances occur after burn injury. Our analysis also show that histone deacetylases, which are protein transcription suppressors, were remarkably increased and indicate that protein transcription was inhibited and anabolism was restrained during the early stage of burn injury.

Conclusions

Metabolomics techniques based on NMR can be used to monitor metabolism in severe burn patients. Our study demonstrates that integrated 1H-NMR metabolome and global metabolic network analysis is useful for visualizing complex metabolic disturbances after severe burn injury and may provide a new quantitative injury severity evaluation for future clinical use.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR-OCC-12002145. Registered 25 April 2012.
A signature of epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity and stromal activation in primary tumor modulates late recurrence in breast cancer independent of disease subtype
Authors: Cheng Qing , Chang Jeffrey T , Gwin William R , Zhu Jun , Ambs Stefan , Geradts Joseph , Lyerly H Kim
Published: July 2014

Introduction

Despite improvements in adjuvant therapy, late systemic recurrences remain a lethal consequence of both early- and late-stage breast cancer. A delayed recurrence is thought to arise from a state of tumor dormancy, but the mechanisms that govern tumor dormancy remain poorly understood.

Methods

To address the features of breast tumors associated with late recurrence, but not confounded by variations in systemic treatment, we compiled breast tumor gene expression data from 4,767 patients and established a discovery cohort consisting of 743 lymph node-negative patients who did not receive systemic neoadjuvant or adjuvant therapy. We interrogated the gene expression profiles of the 743 tumors and identified gene expression patterns that were associated with early and late disease recurrence among these patients. We applied this classification to a subset of 46 patients for whom expression data from microdissected tumor epithelium and stroma was available, and identified a distinct gene signature in the stroma and also a corresponding tumor epithelium signature that predicted disease recurrence in the discovery cohort. This tumor epithelium signature was then validated as a predictor for late disease recurrence in the entire cohort of 4,767 patients.

Results

We identified a novel 51-gene signature from microdissected tumor epithelium associated with late disease recurrence in breast cancer independent of the molecular disease subtype. This signature correlated with gene expression alterations in the adjacent tumor stroma and describes a process of epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) and tumor-stroma interactions.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that an EMT-related gene signature in the tumor epithelium is related to both stromal activation and escape from disease dormancy in breast cancer. The presence of a late recurrence gene signature in the primary tumor also suggests that intrinsic features of this tumor regulate the transition of disseminated tumor cells into a dormant phenotype with the ability to outgrowth as recurrent disease.
Tumor homologous recombination deficiency assays: another step closer to clinical application?
Authors: Stecklein Shane R , Sharma Priyanka
Published: July 2014

Inherited and acquired defects in homologous recombination, a phenotype termed ‘BRCAness’, may lend to therapeutic exploitation in breast cancer. To this end, development and clinical evaluation of platforms to identify signatures of BRCAness are of immense interest. In this issue of Breast Cancer Research, Vollebergh and colleagues report that a BRCA-like array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) genomic instability signature is associated with benefit from high-dose cyclophosphamide-thiotepa-carboplatin chemotherapy. We discuss the strengths and weaknesses of this study and consider the clinical significance and applicability of this aCGH BRCAness signature in the context of other existing homologous recombination deficiency detection platforms.
Cancer/stroma interplay via cyclooxygenase-2 and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase promotes breast cancer progression
Authors: Chen Jing-Yi , Li Chien-Feng , Kuo Cheng-Chin , Tsai Kelvin K , Hou Ming-Feng , Hung Wen-Chun
Published: July 2014

Introduction

Expression of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) in primary breast cancer increases tumor growth and metastasis. However, the clinical significance of stromal IDO and the regulation of stromal IDO are unclear.

Methods

Metabolomics and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were used to study the effect of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)-overexpressing breast cancer cells on IDO expression in co-cultured human breast fibroblasts. Biochemical inhibitors and short-hairpin RNA (shRNA) were used to clarify how prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) upregulates IDO expression. Associations of stromal IDO with clinicopathologic parameters were tested in tumor specimens. An orthotopic animal model was used to examine the effect of COX-2 and IDO inhibitors on tumor growth.

Results

Kynurenine, the metabolite generated by IDO, increases in the supernatant of fibroblasts co-cultured with COX-2-overexpressing breast cancer cells. PGE2 released by cancer cells upregulates IDO expression in fibroblasts through an EP4/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3)-dependent pathway. Conversely, fibroblast-secreted kynurenine promotes the formation of the E-cadherin/Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR)/S-phase kinase-associated protein 2 (Skp2) complex, resulting in degradation of E-cadherin to increase breast cancer invasiveness. The enhancement of motility of breast cancer cells induced by co-culture with fibroblasts is suppressed by the IDO inhibitor 1-methyl-tryptophan. Pathological analysis demonstrates that upregulation of stromal IDO is a poor prognosis factor and is associated with of COX-2 overexpression. Co-expression of cancer COX-2 and stromal IDO predicts a worse disease-free and metastasis-free survival. Finally, COX-2 and IDO inhibitors inhibit tumor growth in vivo.

Conclusion

Integration of metabolomics and molecular and pathological approaches reveals the interplay between cancer and stroma via COX-2, and IDO promotes tumor progression and predicts poor patient survival.
Nutritional status modulates box C/D snoRNP biogenesis by regulated subcellular relocalization of the R2TP complex
Authors: Kakihara Yoshito , Makhnevych Taras , Zhao Liang , Tang Weiwen , Houry Walid A
Published: July 2014

Background

Box C/D snoRNPs, which are typically composed of box C/D snoRNA and the four core protein components Nop1, Nop56, Nop58, and Snu13, play an essential role in the modification and processing of pre-ribosomal RNA. The highly conserved R2TP complex, comprising the proteins Rvb1, Rvb2, Tah1, and Pih1, has been shown to be required for box C/D snoRNP biogenesis and assembly; however, the molecular basis of R2TP chaperone-like activity is not yet known.

Results

Here, we describe an unexpected finding in which the activity of the R2TP complex is required for Nop58 protein stability and is controlled by the dynamic subcellular redistribution of the complex in response to growth conditions and nutrient availability. In growing cells, the complex localizes to the nucleus and interacts with box C/D snoRNPs. This interaction is significantly reduced in poorly growing cells as R2TP predominantly relocalizes to the cytoplasm. The R2TP-snoRNP interaction is mainly mediated by Pih1.

Conclusions

The R2TP complex exerts a novel regulation on box C/D snoRNP biogenesis that affects their assembly and consequently pre-rRNA maturation in response to different growth conditions.
Effects of CoQ10 Supplementation on Lipid Profiles and Glycemic Control in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: a randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Zahedi Hoda , Eghtesadi Shahryar , Seifirad Soroush , Rezaee Neshat , Shidfar Farzad , Heydari Iraj , Golestan Banafsheh , Jazayeri Shima
Published: July 2014

Background

Low grade inflammation and oxidative stress are the key factors in the pathogenesis and development of diabetes and its complications. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is known as an antioxidant and has a vital role in generation of cellular energy providing. This study was undertaken to evaluate the effects of CoQ10 supplementation on lipid profiles and glycemic controls in patients with diabetes.

Methods

Fifty patients with diabetes were randomly allocated into two groups to receive either 150 mg CoQ10 or placebo daily for 12 weeks. Before and after supplementation, fasting venous blood samples were collected and lipid profiles containing triglyceride, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and glycemic indices comprising of fasting plasma glucose (FPG), insulin and hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) were measured. Insulin resistance was calculated using HOMA-IR index.

Results

Forty patients completed the study. After intervention FPG and HbA1C were significantly lower in the CoQ10 group compared to the placebo group, but there were no significant differences in serum insulin and HOMA-IR between the two groups. Although total cholesterol did not change in the Q10 group after supplementation, triglyceride and HDL-C significantly decreased and LDL-C significantly increased in the CoQ10 group.

Conclusion

The present study showed that treatment with Q10 may improve glycemic control with no favorable effects on lipid profiles in type 2 patients with diabetes.

Trial registration

IRCT registry number: IRCT138806102394N1
Foxa1 and Foxa2 Regulate α-Cell Differentiation, Glucagon Biosynthesis, and Secretion
Authors: Heddad Masson Mounia , Poisson Caroline , Guérardel Audrey , Mamin Aline , Philippe Jacques , Gosmain Yvan
Published: July 2014

The Forkhead box A transcription factors are major regulators of glucose homeostasis. They show both distinct and redundant roles during pancreas development and in adult mouse β-cells. In vivo ablation studies have revealed critical implications of Foxa1 on glucagon biosynthesis and requirement of Foxa2 in α-cell terminal differentiation. In order to examine the respective role of these factors in mature α-cells, we used small interfering RNA (siRNA) directed against Foxa1 and Foxa2 in rat primary pancreatic α-cells and rodent α-cell lines leading to marked decreases in Foxa1 and Foxa2 mRNA levels and proteins. Both Foxa1 and Foxa2 control glucagon gene expression specifically through the G2 element. Although we found that Foxa2 controls the expression of the glucagon, MafB, Pou3f4, Pcsk2, Nkx2.2, Kir6.2, and Sur1 genes, Foxa1 only regulates glucagon gene expression. Interestingly, the Isl1 and Gipr genes were not controlled by either Foxa1 or Foxa2 alone but by their combination. Foxa1 and Foxa2 directly activate and bind the promoter region the Nkx2.2, Kir6.2 and Sur1, Gipr, Isl1, and Pou3f4 genes. We also demonstrated that glucagon secretion is affected by the combined effects of Foxa1 and Foxa2 but not by either one alone. Our results indicate that Foxa1 and Foxa2 control glucagon biosynthesis and secretion as well as α-cell differentiation with both common and unique target genes.
Neurokinin B Induces c-fos Transcription via Protein Kinase C and Activation of Serum Response Factor and Elk-1 in Immortalized GnRH Neurons
Authors: Glidewell-Kenney Christine A. , Trang Crystal , Shao Paul P. , Gutierrez-Reed Navarre , Uzo-Okereke Adaku M. , Coss Djurdjica , Mellon Pamela L.
Published: July 2014

Mutations in neurokinin B (NKB) and its receptor, NK3R, were identified in human patients with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, a disorder characterized by lack of puberty and infertility. Further studies have suggested that NKB acts at the level of the hypothalamus to control GnRH neuron activity, either directly or indirectly. We recently reported that treatment with senktide, a NK3R agonist, induced GnRH secretion and expression of c-fos mRNA in GT1-7 cells. Here, we map the responsive region in the murine c-fos promoter to between −400 and −200 bp, identify the signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) (−345) and serum response element (−310) sites as required for induction, a modulatory role for the Ets site (−318), and show that induction is protein kinase C dependent. Using gel shift and Gal4 assays, we further show that phosphorylation of Elk-1 leads to binding to DNA in complex with serum response factor at serum response element and Ets sites within the c-fos promoter. Thus, we determine molecular mechanisms involved in NKB regulation of c-fos induction, which may play a role in modulation of GnRH neuron activation.
Adipose Tissue μ-Crystallin Is a Thyroid Hormone-Binding Protein Associated With Systemic Insulin Sensitivity
Authors: Serrano Marta , Moreno Maria , Ortega Francisco José , Xifra Gemma , Ricart Wifredo , Moreno-Navarrete José María , Fernández-Real José Manuel
Published: July 2014

Background:

Circulating thyroid hormones have been described to be intrinsically associated with insulin sensitivity in healthy subjects. μ-Crystallin is a nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-dependent thyroid hormone-binding protein that has been shown to bind T3 in the cytoplasm. We aimed to study μ-Crystallin expression in adipose tissue and in muscle in association with insulin action and thyroid function.

Methods:

μ-Crystallin gene expression was studied in 81 visceral and 75 sc adipose tissue samples and in 26 muscle samples from a cohort of subjects with a wide spectrum of adiposity (cohort 1). μ-Crystallin was also evaluated in 30 morbidly obese subjects in whom insulin action was evaluated using euglycemic clamp (cohort 2) and in 22 sc adipose tissue samples obtained before and after bariatric surgery-induced weight loss (cohort 3). μ-Crystallin was also evaluated during differentiation of human adipocytes. μ-Crystallin was overexpressed in human sc adipocytes using lentiviruses.

Results:

μ-Crystallin gene expression was 2.6- to 3-fold higher in sc vs visceral adipose tissue in direct association with the expression of thyroid hormone receptor α 1 in cohort 1 and cohort 2. Visceral, but not sc, adipose tissue μ-Crystallin was positively associated with the serum T3/T4 ratio in cohort 1 and with insulin sensitivity in cohort 2. In fact, μ-Crystallin gene expression was significantly decreased in visceral adipose tissue (−43%) and in muscle (−26%) in subjects with impaired fasting glucose and type 2 diabetes. Weight loss did not result in significant sc adipose tissue μ-Crystallin changes. μ-Crystallin overexpression led to increased insulin-induced Ser473Akt phosphorylation in sc adipocytes. During differentiation of adipocytes, μ-Crystallin gene expression decreased in both visceral (P = .006) and sc (P = .003) adipocytes from obese subjects.

Conclusion:

Visceral, but not sc, adipose tissue μ-Crystallin is an adipose tissue factor linked to parameters of thyroid hormone action (T3/T4 ratio) and might mediate the interaction of thyroid function and insulin sensitivity.
5-Hydroxymethylcytosine Promotes Proliferation of Human Uterine Leiomyoma: A Biological Link to a New Epigenetic Modification in Benign Tumors
Authors: Navarro Antonia , Yin Ping , Ono Masanori , Monsivais Diana , Moravek Molly B. , Coon John S. , Dyson Matthew T. , Wei Jian-Jun , Bulun Serdar E.
Published: July 2014

Context:

Uterine leiomyoma, or fibroids, represent the most common benign tumors of the female reproductive tract. A newly discovered epigenetic modification, 5-hydroxymethylation (5-hmC), and its regulators, the TET (Ten Eleven Translocation) enzymes, were implicated in the pathology of malignant tumors; however, their roles in benign tumors, including uterine fibroids, remain unknown.

Objective:

To determine the role of 5-hmC and TET proteins in the pathogenesis of leiomyoma using human uterine leiomyoma and normal matched myometrial tissues and primary cells.

Design:

5-hmC levels were determined by ELISA and immunofluorescent staining in matched myometrial and leiomyoma tissues. TET expression was analyzed by quantitative RT-PCR and immunoblotting. TET1 or TET3 were silenced or inhibited by small interfering RNA or 2-hydroxyglutarate to study their effects on 5-hmC content and cell proliferation.

Results:

We demonstrated significantly higher 5-hmC levels in the genomic DNA of leiomyoma tissue compared to normal myometrial tissue. The increase in 5-hmC levels was associated with the up-regulation of TET1 or TET3 mRNA and protein expression in leiomyoma tissue. TET1 or TET3 knockdown significantly reduced 5-hmC levels in leiomyoma cells and decreased cell proliferation. Treatment with 2-hydroxyglutarate, a competitive TET enzyme inhibitor, significantly decreased both 5-hmC content and cell proliferation of leiomyoma cells.

Conclusion:

An epigenetic imbalance in the 5-hmC content of leiomyoma tissue, caused by up-regulation of the TET1 and TET3 enzymes, might lead to discovery of new therapeutic targets in leiomyoma.
Myelin-specific T helper 17 cells promote adult hippocampal neurogenesis through indirect mechanisms
Authors: Niebling Johannes , E. Rünker Annette , Schallenberg Sonja , Kretschmer Karsten , Kempermann Gerd
Published: July 2014

CD4+ T cells provide a neuro-immunological link in the regulation of adult hippocampal neurogenesis, but the exact mechanisms underlying enhanced neural precursor cell proliferation and the relative contribution of different T helper (Th) cell subsets have remained unclear. Here, we explored the proneurogenic potential of interleukin 17-producing T helper (Th17) cells, a developmentally and functionally distinct Th cell subset that is a key mediator of autoimmune neurodegeneration. We found that base-line proliferation of hippocampal precursor cells in a T cell-deficient mouse model of impaired hippocampal neurogenesis can be restored upon adoptive transfer with homogeneous Th17 populations enriched for myelin-reactive T cell receptors. In these experiments, enhanced proliferation was independent of direct interactions of infiltrating Th17 cells with precursor cells or neighboring cells in the hippocampal neurogenic niche. Complementary studies in immunocompetent mice identified several receptors for Th17 cell-derived cytokines with mRNA expression in hippocampal precursor cells and dentate gyrus tissue, suggesting that Th17 cell activity in peripheral lymphoid tissues might promote hippocampal neurogenesis through secreted cytokines.
Efficient Algorithms for Solving Several Problems in Teaching Programming
Authors: Дмитриев  , Dmitriev Vladislav
Published: July 2014

Both at school and at higher educational institutions the priority generally is given to standard mathematical problems, which in most cases seem

to have quite evident solutions. However some of these problems can be solved in more optimal ways, which are often not been found at all. Based

on a range of examples the paper considers how to seek and apply efficient algorithms when solving a specific class of problems in the course of

programming teaching. The algorithm efficiency is meant that the program (as far as the current problem specifications require) meets requirements

of minimal memory use and certain speed of algorithms. The author has successfully used the problems discussed in the paper for running the distant

programming competition among students of physical-mathematical and engineering profiles. Source codes for the programs discussed are indicated

in terms of C++ programming language.
Plotting a Trajectory for Modern Natural and Mathematical Education at Middle School
Authors: Цветкова  , Tsvetkova Marina
Published: July 2014

The paper presents methodological approaches to plotting various trajectories for teaching natural and mathematical disciplines with regard to schools

being granted the opportunity to plot educational routes at their own option.
Development of High School Students’ Research Potential in Full-time School
Authors: Макотрова  , Makotrova Galina
Published: July 2014

The paper presents ideas on how to develop research potential of upperclassmen, attending full-time school, based on ideological principles of recently

introduced Federal State Educational Standard. Special attention is given to methods, designed to realize ideas of subjectivity and subjectness in

developing senior high school students’ research qualities based on use of advanced information and communication technologies in the context of

close interrelation of class and extracurricular activities.
Paternal Postnatal Depression - a review
Authors: Tuszyńska-Bogucka Wioletta , Nawra Karolina
Published: July 2014

Objective. Among the factors responsible for the occurrence of paternal postnatal depression (PPD), the following are the most frequent: biological factors (mainly hormonal changes), psychological factors (mainly a specific personal profile, including neuroticism, perfectionism and obsessiveness, mental disorders and problems such as anxiety or mental disorders, marital coincidence of depression, a high level of stress experienced and lower quality of sexual life in the postpartum period), and finally – socioeconomic status (mainly poverty, young age of the spouse, his low level of education and structural problems in the family). However, it should be noticed that the subject of paternal postnatal depression is relatively rarely taken up in research or discussed in specialist magazines. Conclusions. However, due to the fact that postnatal depression, both in mothers and in fathers, greatly impacts the life of the child and the functioning of the family, it seems that this area of research is of crucial importance. The identification of risk factors of depression in new fathers may not only lead to a more profound understanding and description of the etiology and symptomatology of paternal postnatal depression, but also to distinguishing a risk group in order to provide it with professional prevention and therapeutic care.
The results of research aimed at identifying psychological predictors of impulsive and restrictive behaviours in a population of females suffering from anorexia or bulimia nervosa. (the author’s own research report)
Authors: Izydorczyk Bernadetta
Published: July 2014

Aim of the study

The results of research aimed at identifying psychological predictors of impulsive and restrictive behaviours in a population of females suffering from anorexia or bulimia.

Subject or material and methods

Eating Disorder Inventory (EDI) devised by D. Garner.
Clinical group:90 Polish females with bulimia and anorexia, A control group: 121 women, who exhibited no eating disorders.

Results

Analysis of the data gathered as a result of this research demonstrated that the females comprising the clinical sample, who exhibited symptoms of bulimia or anorexia displayed inappropriate levels of all emotional and cognitive characteristics. Statistically significant differences were observed between the clinical and control subjects in terms of the variables investigated in the study.

Discussion

The data analysis revealed that low interoceptive awareness proved to be a significant predictor of impulsive and restrictive behaviours in anorexia and bulimia. Perfectionism and body dissatisfaction were found to be significant determinants of restrictive behaviours. Where as, such variables as a tendency towards bulimia and body dissatisfaction emerged as predictive factors for the symptoms of bulimia and bulimia type anorexia.

Conclusions

Possibility that a psychological diagnosis of the emotional and cognitive characteristics displayed by females diagnosed with anorexia or bulimia nervosa is likely to facilitate the process of detecting the symptoms which are typical of the particular types of eating disorders, and thus it is a tool that can be useful at the initial stage of treatment, which involves establishing appropriate psychological interventions aimed at eliminating impulsive and restrictive behaviours developed in patients diagnosed with the aforementioned eating disorders
The Oxford-Liverpool Inventory of Feelings and Experiences (O-LIFE) schizotypy scale in psychiatry
Authors: Dembińska-Krajewska Daria , Rybakowski Janusz
Published: July 2014

The aim of this paper is to describe a schizotypy scale, the Oxford-Liverpool Inventory of Feelings and Experiences (O-LIFE), and its use in psychiatry. Schizotypy is a biologically determined personality phenomenon. Schizotypal disorder, as a diagnostic category in contemporary psychiatric classifications, has been included in schizophrenia spectrum disorders. This may reflect similarities in neurobiological and neuropsychological features between persons with schizotypy and patients with schizophrenia. However, schizotypal traits are also more marked in bipolar disorder (BD) compared with those in healthy subjects.
The O-LIFE was created by Claridge and his co-workers and consists of four dimensions: unusual experiences, cognitive disorganisation, introvertive anhedonia and impulsive nonconformity. Studies using O-LIFE in psychiatry, demonstrated a number of associations between the dimensions of the O-LIFE and the clinical features of schizophrenia, in mood disorders and in healthy persons. In patients with BD treated with lithium carbonate, worse effects of lithium were observed in subjects with high scores on the O-LIFE dimensions (particularly cognitive disorganisation). Recently, some molecular-genetic associations have also been shown between O-LIFE dimensions and polymorphisms of the dopaminergic system and circadian rhythm genes.
Polynomial-Time Approximation Schemes for Maximizing Gross Substitutes Utility Under Budget Constraints
Authors: Shioura Akiyoshi
Published: July 2014

We consider the maximization of a gross substitutes utility function under budget constraints. This problem naturally arises in applications such as exchange economies in mathematical economics and combinatorial auctions in (algorithmic) game theory. We show that this problem admits a polynomial-time approximation scheme (PTAS). More generally, we present a PTAS for maximizing a discrete concave function called an M♮-concave function under budget constraints. Our PTAS is based on rounding an optimal solution of a continuous relaxation problem, which is shown to be solvable in polynomial time by the ellipsoid method. We also consider the maximization of the sum of two M♮-concave functions under a single budget constraint. This problem is a generalization of the budgeted max-weight matroid intersection problem to the one with certain nonlinear objective functions. We show that this problem also admits a PTAS.
Production-Inventory Systems with Lost Sales and Compound Poisson Demands
Authors: Shi Jim (Junmin) , Katehakis Michael N. , Melamed Benjamin , Xia Yusen
Published: July 2014

This paper considers a continuous-review, single-product, production-inventory system with a constant replenishment rate, compound Poisson demands, and lost sales. Two objective functions that represent metrics of operational costs are considered: (1) the sum of the expected discounted inventory holding costs and lost-sales penalties, both over an infinite time horizon, given an initial inventory level; and (2) the long-run time average of the same costs. The goal is to minimize these cost metrics with respect to the replenishment rate. It is, however, not possible to obtain closed-form expressions for the aforementioned cost functions directly in terms of positive replenishment rate (PRR). To overcome this difficulty, we construct a bijection from the PRR space to the space of positive roots of Lundberg's fundamental equation, to be referred to as the Lundberg positive root (LPR) space. This transformation allows us to derive closed-form expressions for the aforementioned cost metrics with respect to the LPR variable, in lieu of the PRR variable. We then proceed to solve the optimization problem in the LPR space and, finally, recover the optimal replenishment rate from the optimal LPR variable via the inverse bijection. For the special cases of constant or loss-proportional penalty and exponentially distributed demand sizes, we obtain simpler explicit formulas for the optimal replenishment rate.
Management of dental fear, anxiety and phobia
Authors: Charon Richard , Charon Chris
Published: July 2014

Patients are often fearful, anxious or even phobic about visiting the dentist. This can be approached in a number of ways and patients should be assessed to find the most suitable option. If dental anxiety is managed, patient outcomes can be greatly improved
The selection and use of loupes in dentistry
Authors: Wynne Leanna
Published: July 2014

Loupes allow dentists, hygienists and therapists to see their working area in more detail than normal vision allows. There are several types of loupe, and a number of issues need to be considered when deciding which model to use
Increasing the health, activity and participation levels of people attending day centres
Authors: Hurley Michael V , Dudziec Magdalena , Kennedy Bernadette , Anderson Liezl , Jackson Iris , Koskela Sian , Gallagher William , Jones Fiona
Published: July 2014

Background:

Day centres can enable people with mild-to-moderate physical and mental health conditions to continue living at home, delaying their move into residential care. ‘Access to Wellbeing’ is a programme designed to help day centres improve service users’ health and participation in meaningful physical, mental and social activities. This paper documents the programme and people's experiences of its implementation.

Methods:

This study used a retrospective observational design, and studied a day centre that caters for 40 disabled and/or frail adults daily. The Access to Wellbeing programme development started with a structured assessment of the day centre to identify aspects of the environment and working practices that impeded physical activity. Service users were interviewed to understand their needs, abilities and interests, and establish meaningful activities to improve their health and wellbeing. Alterations to organisational structures, the physical environment and work practices were instigated to increase opportunities for physical activity and involvement. Shortly after implementation of the Access to Wellbeing programme in a day centre, semi-structured interviews were conducted with three day centre staff and three members of the community rehabilitation team exploring their experiences of the programme and its implementation.

Findings:

Despite staff's initial scepticism about the programme and concerns about their increased workload, and its effect on their relationship and interaction with service users, the programme was successfully implemented. The programme increased service users’ physical health and wellbeing, and satisfaction with the service, and improved staff motivation and job satisfaction. A committed team working together was the most important factor determining successful implementation. Few additional resources were required.

Conclusions:

A holistic programme that aims to improve meaningful activities can be implemented in day centres. These programmes can bring wide-ranging benefits to service users health, wellbeing and participation, and staff motivation job satisfaction and productivity.
Using programme theory to evaluate delivery of health services: A methodology accessible to clinicians
Authors: Schuurs Sarita , Amsters Delena , Bayliss Carey , Maugham Lucy , Mason Oliver , Slattery Peter
Published: July 2014

Background:

With healthcare providers experiencing increasing demand to evaluate clinical service delivery, it is necessary to explore evaluation methodologies that can accommodate the complexities and contextual factors in health-care systems and human systems in general. Methodologies must also be comprehensible to clinicians. Programme theory is one such methodology.

Content:

This paper presents a brief description of programme theory methodology and a case study of the use of this approach in a custom wheelchair seating service for people with spinal cord injury.

Conclusions:

Programme theory is a useful methodology for examining how a service operates and whether it achieves what it sets out to do. It is essential that clinicians challenge and test their assumptions about their services and act on information obtained in order to continuously improve service delivery.
The ‘Food First’ approach to malnutrition
Authors: Forbes Cathy
Published: July 2014

Malnutrition is a major problem in the UK and costs the health and social care budget billions each year. In Bedfordshire, the Food First team support care home staff to take simple steps to identify malnutrition and create practical, realistic care plans
Dual-Wavelength Y-Branch Distributed Bragg Reflector Diode Laser at 785 Nanometers for Shifted Excitation Raman Difference Spectroscopy
Authors: Maiwald Martin , Eppich Bernd , Fricke Jörg , Ginolas Arnim , Bugge Frank , Sumpf Bernd , Erbert Götz , Tränkle Günther
Published: July 2014

A dual-wavelength Y-branch distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) diode laser at 785 nm is presented as an excitation light source for shifted excitation Raman difference spectroscopy (SERDS). The monolithic device was realized with deeply etched surface DBR gratings using one-step epitaxy. An optical output power of 140 mW was obtained in continuous-wave (CW) operation for each laser cavity, with emission wavelengths of the device at 784.50 and 785.12 nm. A spectral width of the laser emission of 30 pm (0.5 cm−1), including 95% of optical power, was measured. The mean spectral distance of both excitation lines is 0.63 nm (10.2 cm−1) over the whole operating range. Raman experiments using polystyrene as the test sample and ambient light as the interference source were carried out and demonstrate the suitability of the dual-wavelength diode laser for SERDS.
Two-Dimensional Correlation Spectroscopy (2D-COS) Variable Selection for Near-Infrared Microscopy Discrimination of Meat and Bone Meal in Compound Feed
Authors: Lü Chengxu , Chen Longjian , Yang Zengling , Liu Xian , Han Lujia
Published: July 2014

This article presents a novel method for combining auto-peak and cross-peak information for sensitive variable selection in synchronous two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2D-COS). This variable selection method is then applied to the case of near-infrared (NIR) microscopy discrimination of meat and bone meal (MBM). This is of important practical value because MBM is currently banned in ruminate animal compound feed. For the 2D-COS analysis, a set of NIR spectroscopy data of compound feed samples (adulterated with varying concentrations of MBM) was pretreated using standard normal variate and detrending (SNVD) and then mapped to the 2D-COS synchronous matrix. For the auto-peak analysis, 12 main sensitive variables were identified at 6852, 6388, 6320, 5788, 5600, 5244, 4900, 4768, 4572, 4336, 4256, and 4192 cm−1. All these variables were assigned their specific spectral structure and chemical component. For the cross-peak analysis, these variables were divided into two groups, each group containing the six sensitive variables. This grouping resulted in a correlation between the spectral variables that was in accordance with the chemical-component content of the MBM and compound feed. These sensitive variables were then used to build a NIR microscopy discrimination model, which yielded a 97% correct classification. Moreover, this method detected the presence of MBM when its concentration was less than 1% in an adulterated compound feed sample. The concentration-dependent 2D-COS-based variable selection method developed in this study has the unique advantages of (1) introducing an interpretive aspect into variable selection, (2) substantially reducing the complexity of the computations, (3) enabling the transferability of the results to discriminant analysis, and (4) enabling the efficient compression of spectral data.
Robust Calibration Transfer in Noninvasive Ethanol Measurements, Part I: Mathematical Basis for Spectral Distortions in Fourier Transform Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-NIR)
Authors: Ridder Trent D. , Steeg Benjamin J. Ver , Price Glenn L.
Published: July 2014

Multivariate calibration transfer in spectroscopy is an active area of interest. Many current approaches rely on the measurement of a subset of calibration samples on each instrument produced, an approach that can be impractical in many applications. Furthermore, such methods attempt to model implicitly, rather than explicitly, interinstrument differences. In Part I of this work, a Fourier transform near-infrared spectroscopy (FT-NIR) system designed to perform noninvasive ethanol measurements is discussed. Optical distortions caused by self-apodization, shear, and off-axis detector field of view (FOV) are examined and equations describing their effects are given. The effects of shear and off-axis detector FOV are shown to yield nonlinear distortions of the amplitude and wavenumber axes of measured spectra that cannot be accommodated by typical wavenumber calibration procedures or background correction. The distortions forecast by these equations are verified using laboratory measurements, and an analysis of the spectral complexity caused by the distortions is presented. The theoretical and experimental aspects presented in Part I are incorporated into a new calibration transfer method whose benefits are illustrated in Part II using noninvasive alcohol measurements. Although this work discusses a specific FT-NIR instrument and application, the methods developed form a general framework for modeling the distortions of other types of optical spectrometers to improve instrument standardization and multivariate calibration transfer.