bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
T3DB: an integrated database for bacterial type III secretion system
Authors: Wang Yejun , Huang He , Sun Ming’an , Zhang Qing , Guo Dianjing
Published: April 2012

Background

Type III Secretion System (T3SS), which plays important roles in pathogenesis or symbiosis, is widely expressed in a variety of gram negative bacteria. However, lack of unique nomenclature for T3SS genes has hindered T3SS related research. It is necessary to set up a knowledgebase integrating T3SS-related research data to facilitate the communication between different research groups interested in different bacteria.

Description

A T3SS-related Database (T3DB) was developed. T3DB serves as an integrated platform for sequence collection, function annotation, and ortholog classification for T3SS related apparatus, effector, chaperone and regulatory genes. The collection of T3SS-containing bacteria, T3SS-related genes, function annotation, and the ortholog information were all manually curated from literature. BPBAac, a highly efficient T3SS effector prediction tool, was also implemented.

Conclusions

T3DB is the first systematic platform integrating well-annotated T3SS-related gene and protein information to facilitate T3SS and bacterial pathogenecity related research. The newly constructed T3 ortholog clusters may faciliate effective communication between different research groups and will promote de novo discoveries. Besides, the manually-curated high-quality effector and chaperone data are useful for feature analysis and evolutionary studies of these important proteins.
Recurrent 6th nerve palsy in a child following different live attenuated vaccines: case report
Authors: Cheng Daryl R , Crawford Nigel W , Hayman Michael , Buckley Christopher , Buttery Jim P
Published: April 2012

Background

Recurrent benign 6thnerve palsy in the paediatric age group is uncommon, but has been described following viral and bacterial infections. It has also been temporally associated with immunization, but has not been previously described following two different live attenuated vaccines.

Case presentation

A case is presented of a 12 month old Caucasian boy with recurrent benign 6thnerve palsy followingmeasles-mumps-rubellaand varicella vaccines, given on separate occasions with complete recovery following each episode. No alternate underlying etiology was identified despite extensive investigations and review.

Conclusions

The majority of benign 6th nerve palsies do not have a sinister cause and have an excellent prognosis, with recovery expected in most cases. The exact pathophysiology is unknown, although hypotheses including autoimmune mechanisms and direct viral invasion could explain the pathophysiology behind immunization related nerve palsies. It is important to rule out other aetiologies with thorough history, physical examination and investigations. There is limited information in the literature regarding the safety of a repeat dose of a live vaccine in this setting. Future immunizations should be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Polymorphisms in the mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation chain genes as prognostic markers for colorectal cancer
Authors: Lascorz Jesus , Bevier Melanie , Schönfels Witigo V , Kalthoff Holger , Aselmann Heiko , Beckmann Jan , Egberts Jan , Buch Stephan , Becker Thomas , Schreiber Stefan , Hampe Jochen , Hemminki Kari , Försti Asta , Schafmayer Clemens
Published: April 2012

Background

Currently, the TNM classification of malignant tumours based on clinicopathological staging remains the standard for colorectal cancer (CRC) prognostication. Recently, we identified the mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation chain as a consistently overrepresented category in the published gene expression profiling (GEP) studies on CRC prognosis.

Methods

We evaluated associations of putative regulatory single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes from the oxidative phosphorylation chain with survival and disease prognosis in 613 CRC patients from Northern Germany (PopGen cohort).

Results

Two SNPs in the 3′ untranslated region of UQCRB (complex III), rs7836698 and rs10504961, were associated with overall survival (HR = 0.52, 95% CI 0.32–0.85 and HR = 0.64, 95% CI 0.42–0.99, for TT carriers). These associations were restricted to the group of patients with cancer located in the colon (HR = 0.42, 95% CI 0.22–0.82 and HR = 0.46, 95% CI 0.25–0.83). Multivariate analysis indicated that both markers might act as independent prognostic markers. Additionally, the TT carriers were ~2 times more likely to develop tumours in the colon than in the rectum. Two SNPs in COX6B1 (complex IV) were associated with lymph node metastasis in a dominant model (rs6510502, OR = 1.75, 95% CI 1.20–2.57; rs10420252, OR = 1.68, 95% CI 1.11–2.53); rs6510502 was associated also with distant metastasis (OR = 1.67, 95% CI 1.09–2.56 in a dominant model).

Conclusions

This is the first report suggesting that markers in genes from the mitochondrial oxidative chain might be prognostic factors for CRC. Additional studies replicating the presented findings are needed.
Prevalence and impact of disability in women who had recently given birth in the UK
Authors: Šumilo Dana , Kurinczuk Jennifer J , Redshaw Maggie E , Gray Ron
Published: April 2012

Background

Maternity services should take into account the needs of all women, including those related to disability. No reliable information, however, exists on the extent and characteristics of disability in this population in the UK. This brief report provides an overview of the prevalence of disability in women giving birth in the UK as measured by the presence of a limiting longstanding illness (LLI). The demographic, socio-economic, lifestyle and pregnancy related characteristics and child health outcomes are summarised to inform maternity and postnatal care service planning, and policy development.

Methods

Secondary analysis of data on 18,231 mother-child pairs from the nationally representative UK Millennium Cohort Study. The baseline interviews with families were carried out in 2001-2002. The LLI prevalence in women who had recently delivered was estimated, and relevant characteristics and differences in outcomes compared using descriptive statistics taking into account the study design and non-response.

Results

9.4% (95% CI 8.7-10.0) of women who had recently given birth reported having an LLI. Musculoskeletal, respiratory and mental disorders accounted for most of the health problems. A significantly higher proportion of women with an LLI received means-tested financial benefits, had no educational qualifications and suffered from intimate partner violence compared to women who did not have an LLI (49.3% vs 35.3%, 20.4% vs 15.0%, 6.0% vs 3.3%, respectively). They were also more likely to smoke throughout pregnancy than women without an LLI (29.2% vs 20.8%), have a preterm birth (10.9% vs 6.8%) and be lone parents (19.5% vs 13.9%). Only 25.6% of children of mothers with an LLI were breastfed for more than three months compared to 33.4% of infants of mothers who did not have an LLI. At the age of seven years, 12.0% of children of mothers with an LLI had an activity limiting health problem themselves compared to 6.2% of children of mothers without an LLI.

Conclusions

Disability in women who had recently delivered is relatively common. It is associated with social and economic inequalities and worse pregnancy and child related outcomes. Apart from condition-specific support during and after pregnancy, disabled women may require extra help from health professionals to quit smoking, continue breastfeeding, and reduce intimate partner violence.
Prospective multi-center study of oncologic outcomes of robot-assisted partial nephrectomy for pT1 renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Kyllo Rachel L , Tanagho Youssef S , Kaouk Jihad H , Stifelman Michael D , Rogers Craig G , Hillyer Shahab P , Sukumar Shyam S , Nepple Kenneth G , Bhayani Sam B
Published: April 2012

Background

Partial nephrectomy has been increasingly recommended over radical nephrectomy for the management of small renal masses based on improved renal functional outcomes without sacrifice of oncologic effectiveness. Robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) has been introduced in an effort to offer another minimally invasive option for nephron-sparing surgery. However, reports of RAPN have been limited to short-term perioperative outcomes. The goal of this study is to report and evaluate the initial oncologic outcomes of RAPN. Utilizing prospectively obtained data on RAPN performed by four surgeons at four separate tertiary care centers, we selected patients with unilateral, localized, non-familial, pathologically-confirmed pT1 renal cell carcinoma and a minimum post-operative follow-up of 12 months.

Methods

Utilizing prospectively obtained data on RAPN performed by four surgeons at four separate tertiary care centers, we selected patients with unilateral, localized, non-familial, pathologically-confirmed pT1 renal cell carcinoma and a minimum post-operative follow-up of 12 months. Survival analysis (disease-free, cancer-specific, and overall survival) was performed, and Kaplan-Meier curves were generated.

Results

RAPN was performed in 124 patients with a median tumor size of 3.0 cm (IQR 2.2-4.2 cm). Median follow-up was 29 months (range 12-46 months). Positive parenchymal surgical margins occurred in two patients (1.6 %), both of whom were recurrence-free at 30 and 34 months after surgery. The three-year Kaplan-Meier estimated disease-free survival was 94.9 %, cancer-specific survival was 99.1 %, and overall survival was 97.3 %.

Conclusions

In our cohort of patients with small renal carcinomas who were followed for a median of 29 months, recurrence and survival outcomes were similar to those reported for open and laparoscopic partial nephrectomy. Further long-term outcomes will be needed to definitively claim that RAPN is oncologically equivalent to other surgical approaches.
Clinical capabilities of graduates of an outcomes-based integrated medical program
Authors: Scicluna Helen A , Grimm Michael C , O’Sullivan Anthony J , Harris Peter , Pilotto Louis S , Jones Philip D , McNeil H Patrick
Published: April 2012

Background

The University of New South Wales (UNSW) Faculty of Medicine replaced its old content-based curriculum with an innovative new 6-year undergraduate entry outcomes-based integrated program in 2004. This paper is an initial evaluation of the perceived and assessed clinical capabilities of recent graduates of the new outcomes-based integrated medical program compared to benchmarks from traditional content-based or process-based programs.

Method

Self-perceived capability in a range of clinical tasks and assessment of medical education as preparation for hospital practice were evaluated in recent graduates after 3 months working as junior doctors. Responses of the 2009 graduates of the UNSW’s new outcomes-based integrated medical education program were compared to those of the 2007 graduates of UNSW’s previous content-based program, to published data from other Australian medical schools, and to hospital-based supervisor evaluations of their clinical competence.

Results

Three months into internship, graduates from UNSW’s new outcomes-based integrated program rated themselves to have good clinical and procedural skills, with ratings that indicated significantly greater capability than graduates of the previous UNSW content-based program. New program graduates rated themselves significantly more prepared for hospital practice in the confidence (reflective practice), prevention (social aspects of health), interpersonal skills (communication), and collaboration (teamwork) subscales than old program students, and significantly better or equivalent to published benchmarks of graduates from other Australian medical schools. Clinical supervisors rated new program graduates highly capable for teamwork, reflective practice and communication.

Conclusions

Medical students from an outcomes-based integrated program graduate with excellent self-rated and supervisor-evaluated capabilities in a range of clinically-relevant outcomes. The program-wide curriculum reform at UNSW has had a major impact in developing capabilities in new graduates that are important for 21st century medical practice.
Myxobacteria: natural pharmaceutical factories
Authors: Diez Juana , Martinez Javier P , Mestres Jordi , Sasse Florenz , Frank Ronald , Meyerhans Andreas
Published: April 2012

Myxobacteria are amongst the top producers of natural products. The diversity and unique structural properties of their secondary metabolites is what make these social microbes highly attractive for drug discovery. Screening of products derived from these bacteria has revealed a puzzling amount of hits against infectious and non-infectious human diseases. Preying mainly on other bacteria and fungi, why would these ancient hunters manufacture compounds beneficial for us? The answer may be the targeting of shared processes and structural features conserved throughout evolution.
Association of the genetic variants of luteinizing hormone, luteinizing hormone receptor and polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Liu Nana , Ma Yanmin , Wang Shuyu , Zhang Xiaowei , Zhang Qiufang , Zhang Xue , Fu Li , Qiao Jie
Published: April 2012

Background

High circulating luteinizing hormone (LH) level is a typical biochemical feature of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) whose pathophysiology is still unclear. Certain mutations of LH and LH receptor (LHR) may lead to changes in bioactivity of these hormones. The aim of this study was determine the role of the LH and LHR polymorphisms in the pathogenesis of PCOS using a genetic approach.

Methods

315 PCOS women and 212 controls were screened for the gene variants of LH G1052A and LHR rs61996318 polymorphisms by polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP).

Results

PCOS patients had significantly more A allele frequency of LH G1052A mutations than controls (p=0.001). Within PCOS group, carriers of LH 1052A allele had lower LH (p=0.05) and higher fasting glucose levels (p=0.04). No subjects were identified with LHR rs61996318 polymorphisms. A new LHR single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) was found without clear association with PCOS.

Conclusions

Results suggested LH G1052A mutation might influence PCOS susceptibility and phenotypes.
Trehalose treatment suppresses inflammation, oxidative stress, and vasospasm induced by experimental subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Echigo Ryosuke , Shimohata Nobuyuki , Karatsu Kensuke , Yano Fumiko , Kayasuga-Kariya Yuko , Fujisawa Ayano , Ohto Takayo , Kita Yoshihiro , Nakamura Motonao , Suzuki Shigeki , Mochizuki Manabu , Shimizu Takao , Chung Ung-il , Sasaki Nobuo
Published: April 2012

Background

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) frequently results in several complications, including cerebral vasospasm, associated with high mortality. Although cerebral vasospasm is a major cause of brain damages after SAH, other factors such as inflammatory responses and oxidative stress also contribute to high mortality after SAH. Trehalose is a non-reducing disaccharide in which two glucose units are linked by α,α-1,1-glycosidic bond, and has been shown to induce tolerance to a variety of stressors in numerous organisms. In the present study, we investigated the effect of trehalose on cerebral vasospasm, inflammatory responses, and oxidative stress induced by bloodin vitroandin vivo.

Methods

Enzyme immunoassay for eicosanoids, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and endothelin-1, and western blotting analysis for cyclooxygenase-2, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and inhibitor of NF-κB were examined in macrophage-like cells treated with hemolysate. After treatment with hemolysate and hydrogen peroxide, the levels of lipid peroxide and amounts of arachidonic acid release were also analyzed. Three hours after the onset of experimental SAH, 18 Japanese White rabbits received an injection of saline, trehalose, or maltose into the cisterna magna. Angiographic and histological analyses of the basilar arteries were performed. In a separate study, the femoral arteries from 60 rats were exposed to fresh autologous blood. At 1, 3, 5, 7, 10, and 20 days after treatment, cryosections prepared from the femoral arteries were histologically analyzed.

Results

When cells were treated with hemolysate, trehalose inhibited the production of several inflammatory mediators and degradation of the inhibitor of NF-κB and also suppressed the lipid peroxidation, the reactive oxygen species-induced arachidonic acid releasein vitro. In the rabbit model, trehalose produced an inhibitory effect on vasospasm after the onset of experimental SAH, while maltose had only a moderate effect. When the rat femoral arteries exposed to blood were investigated for 20 days, histological analysis revealed that trehalose suppressed vasospasm, inflammatory response, and lipid peroxidation.

Conclusions

These data suggest that trehalose has suppressive effects on several pathological events after SAH, including vasospasm, inflammatory responses, and lipid peroxidation. Trehalose may be a new therapeutic approach for treatment of complications after SAH.
Ultra-long Pt nanolawns supported on TiO2-coated carbon fibers as 3D hybrid catalyst for methanol oxidation
Authors: Shen Yu-Lin , Chen Shih-Yun , Song Jenn-Ming , Chen In-Gann
Published: April 2012

In this study, TiO2thin film photocatalyst on carbon fibers was used to synthesize ultra-long single crystalline Pt nanowires via a simple photoreduction route (thermally activated photoreduction). It also acted as a co-catalytic material with Pt. Taking advantage of the high-aspect ratio of the Pt nanostructure as well as the excellent catalytic activity of TiO2, this hybrid structure has the great potential as the active anode in direct methanol fuel cells. The electrochemical results indicate that TiO2is capable of transforming CO-like poisoning species on the Pt surface during methanol oxidation and contributes to a high CO tolerance of this Pt nanowire/TiO2hybrid structure.
Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus nonstructural protein 2 contributes to NF-κB activation
Authors: Fang Ying , Fang Liurong , Wang Yang , Lei Yingying , Luo Rui , Wang Dang , Chen Huanchun , Xiao Shaobo
Published: April 2012

Background

Nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) is an inducible transcription factor that plays a key role in inflammation and immune responses, as well as in the regulation of cell proliferation and survival. Previous studies by our group and others have demonstrated that porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) infection could activate NF-κB in MARC-145 cells and alveolar macrophages. The nucleocapsid (N) protein was identified as an NF-κB activator among the structural proteins encoded by PRRSV; however, it remains unclear whether the nonstructural proteins (Nsps) contribute to NF-κB activation. In this study, we identified which Nsps can activate NF-κB and investigated the potential mechanism(s) by which they act.

Results

By screening the individual Nsps of PRRSV strain WUH3, Nsp2 exhibited great potential to activate NF-κB in MARC-145 and HeLa cells. Overexpression of Nsp2 induced IκBα degradation and nuclear translocation of NF-κB. Furthermore, Nsp2 also induced NF-κB-dependent inflammatory factors, including interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, COX-2, and RANTES. Compared with the Nsp2 of the classical PRRSV strain, the Nsp2 of highly pathogenic PRRSV (HP-PRRSV) strains that possess a 30 amino acid (aa) deletion in Nsp2 displayed greater NF-κB activation. However, the 30-aa deletion was demonstrated to not be associated with NF-κB activation. Further functional domain analyses revealed that the hypervariable region (HV) of Nsp2 was essential for NF-κB activation.

Conclusions

Taken together, these data indicate that PRRSV Nsp2 is a multifunctional protein participating in the modulation of host inflammatory response, which suggests an important role of Nsp2 in pathogenesis and disease outcomes.
Cytotoxicity and cellular uptake of tri-block copolymer nanoparticles with different size and surface characteristics
Authors: Bhattacharjee Sourav , Ershov Dmitry , Fytianos Kleanthis , van der Gucht Jasper , Alink Gerrit M , Rietjens Ivonne M C M , Marcelis Antonius T M , Zuilhof Han
Published: April 2012

Background

Polymer nanoparticles (PNP) are becoming increasingly important in nanomedicine and food-based applications. Size and surface characteristics are often considered to be important factors in the cellular interactions of these PNP, although systematic investigations on the role of surface properties on cellular interactions and toxicity of PNP are scarce.

Results

Fluorescent, monodisperse tri-block copolymer nanoparticles with different sizes (45 and 90 nm) and surface charges (positive and negative) were synthesized, characterized and studied for uptake and cytotoxicity in NR8383 and Caco-2 cells. All types of PNP were taken up by the cells. The positive smaller PNP45(45 nm) showed a higher cytotoxicity compared to the positive bigger PNP90(90 nm) particles including reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, ATP depletion and TNF-α release. The negative PNP did not show any cytotoxic effect. Reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), uncoupling of the electron transfer chain in mitochondria and the resulting ATP depletion, induction of ROS and oxidative stress may all play a role in the possible mode of action for the cytotoxicity of these PNP. The role of receptor-mediated endocytosis in the intracellular uptake of different PNP was studied by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Involvement of size and charge in the cellular uptake of PNP by clathrin (for positive PNP), caveolin (for negative PNP) and mannose receptors (for hydroxylated PNP) were found with smaller PNP45showing stronger interactions with the receptors than bigger PNP90.

Conclusions

The size and surface characteristics of polymer nanoparticles (PNP; 45 and 90 nm with different surface charges) play a crucial role in cellular uptake. Specific interactions with cell membrane-bound receptors (clathrin, caveolin and mannose) leading to cellular internalization were observed to depend on size and surface properties of the different PNP. These properties of the nanoparticles also dominate their cytotoxicity, which was analyzed for many factors. The effective reduction in the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), uncoupling of the electron transfer chain in mitochondria and resulting ATP depletion, induction of ROS and oxidative stress likely all play a role in the mechanisms behind the cytotoxicity of these PNP.
Diversity of use and local knowledge of wild edible plant resources in Nepal
Authors: Uprety Yadav , Poudel Ram C , Shrestha Krishna K , Rajbhandary Sangeeta , Tiwari Narendra N , Shrestha Uttam B , Asselin Hugo
Published: April 2012

Background

Wild edible plants (WEP) provide staple and supplement foods, as well as cash income to local communities, thus favouring food security. However, WEP are largely ignored in land use planning and implementation, economic development, and biodiversity conservation. Moreover, WEP-related traditional knowledge is rapidly eroding. Therefore, we designed this study to fulfill a part of the knowledge gap by providing data on diversity, traditional knowledge, economic potential, and conservation value of WEP from Nepal.

Methods

The information was collected through focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Percentage of general utility of the plants among the study communities was evaluated using the Chi-square (χ2) test of homogeneity. High priority species were identified after consultation with the local stakeholders followed by scoring based on defined criteria. Pairwise ranking was used to assess ethnoecological knowledge to identify the threats to WEP.

Results

We documented 81 species belonging to Angiosperms (74), Pteridophytes (5), and Fungi (2). Most of the species were used as fruits (44 species) followed by vegetables (36). Almost half of the species (47%) were also used for purposes other than food. From the species with market value (37% of the total), 10 were identified as high priority species. Pairwise ranking revealed that WEP are threatened mostly by habitat destruction, land-use change and over-harvesting. Some of these plants are crop wild relatives and could thus be used for crop improvement. Interestingly, our study also revealed that young people who spend most of the time in the forest as herdsmen are particularly knowledgeable of wild fruit plants.

Conclusion

We provide empirical evidence from a relatively large area of Nepal about diversity and status of WEP, as well as methodological insights about the proper knowledge holders to consult. Regarding the unique and important knowledge they have on WEP, young people should be included when recruiting participants to ethnobotanical studies or to any type of consultation about WEP. The habit of using wild edible plants is still alive and is a traditional culinary practice that demonstrates rich traditional knowledge of local people. WEP were found to be important for livelihood as well as showing great potential for crop improvement. Priority species should be promoted for income generation activities through sustainable collection and trade. Communities should engage in minimizing the threats to these valuable resources.
Effects of Coptis extract combined with chemotherapeutic agents on ROS production, multidrug resistance, and cell growth in A549 human lung cancer cells
Authors: He Chengwei , Rong Rong , Liu Jing , Wan Jianbo , Zhou Keyuan , Kang Jing X
Published: April 2012

Background

Non–small cell lung cancer is associated with high expression of multidrug resistance (MDR) proteins and low production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Coptis extract (COP), a Chinese medicinal herb, and its major constituent, berberine (BER), have anticancer properties. This study aims to investigate the effects of COP and BER combined with chemotherapeutic agents, including fluorouracil (5-FU), camptothecin (CPT), and paclitaxel (TAX), on cell proliferation, ROS production, and MDR in A549 human non-small cell lung cancer cells.

Methods

A549 cells were treated with different doses of COP and BER, combined with 5-FU, CPT, and TAX. Cell viability was measured by an XTT (2,3-bis-(2-methoxy-4- nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-2 H-tetrazolium-5-carboxanilide) assay. Intracellular ROS levels were determined by measuring the oxidative conversion of cell permeable 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescein diacetate to fluorescent dichlorofluorescein. MDR of A549 cells was assessed by rhodamine 123 retention assay.

Results

Both COP and BER significantly inhibited A549 cell growth in a dose-dependent manner. Combinations of COP or BER with chemotherapeutic agents (5-FU, CPT, and TAX) exhibited a stronger inhibitory effect on A549 cell growth. In addition, COP and BER increased ROS production and reduced MDR in A549 cells.

Conclusion

As potential adjuvants to chemotherapy for non–small cell lung cancer, COP and BER increase ROS production, reduce MDR, and enhance the inhibitory effects of chemotherapeutic agents on A549 cell growth.
Relationship between vitamin B12, folate and homocysteine levels and H. Pylori infection in patients with functional dyspepsia: A cross-section study
Authors: Rasool Shahid , Abid Shahab , Iqbal Mohammad Perwaiz , Mehboobali Naseema , Haider Ghulam , Jafri Wasim
Published: April 2012

Background

H. pylori infection has been associated with many micronutrient deficiencies. There is a dearth of data from communities with nutritional deficiencies and high prevalence of H. pylori infection. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of H. pylori infection on serum levels of vitamin B12, folate and homocysteine in patients with functional dyspepsia (FD).

Methods

One hundred and thirty-two patients with FD undergoing gastroscopy were enrolled. The serum was analyzed for B12, folate and homocysteine levels before gastroscopy. H. pylori infection was diagnosed by histopathological examination of gastric biopsies and urea breath test. An independent sample t-test and the Mann–Whitney test were used to compare mean serum concentrations of biomarkers between H. pylori- positive and H. pylori- negative groups of patients. A Chi-square test was performed to assess the differences among proportions, while Spearman’s rho was used for correlation analysis between levels of B12 and homocysteine.

Results

The mean age of the group was 40.3 ± 11.5 (19–72) years. Folate deficiency was seen in 43 (34.6%), B12 deficiency in 30 (23.1%) and hyperhomocysteinemia in 60 (46.2%) patients. H. pylori was present in 80 (61.5%) patients with FD while it was absent in 50 (38.5%). Mean serum levels of B12, folate and homocysteine in the H. pylori- positive group of patients were not significantly different from the levels in the H. pylori- negative group (357 ± 170 vs. 313 ± 136 pg/mL; p = 0.13), (4.35 ± 1.89 vs. 4.42 ± 1.93 ng/mL; p = 0.84); (15.88 ± 8.97 vs. 16.62 ± 7.82 μmol/L; p = 0.24); respectively.

B12 deficiency (≤200 pg/mL) was 23.8% in the H. pylori- positive patients versus 22.0% in the H. pylori- negative patients. Folate deficiency (≤3.5 ng/mL) was 33.8% in the H. pylori- positive group versus 36% in the H. pylori- negative group. Hyperhomocysteinemia (>15 μmol/L) was present in 46.2% of H. pylori- positive patients compared to 44% in the H. pylori- negative group. Correlation analysis indicated that serum B12 levels were inversely associated with serum levels of homocysteine in patients with FD (rho = −0.192; p = 0.028).

Conclusions

This study demonstrated an inverse relationship between serum levels of B12 and homocysteine in patients with FD. Moreover, no impact of the presence of H. pylori was found on B12, folate and homocysteine levels in such patients.
Clinical applications of mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Wang Shihua , Qu Xuebin , Zhao Robert Chunhua
Published: April 2012

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) have generated a great amount of enthusiasm over the past decade as a novel therapeutic paradigm for a variety of diseases. Currently, MSC based clinical trials have been conducted for at least 12 kinds of pathological conditions, with many completed trials demonstrating the safety and efficacy. This review provides an overview of the recent clinical findings related to MSC therapeutic effects. Roles of MSCs in clinical trials conducted to treat graft-versus-host-disease (GVHD) and cardiovascular diseases are highlighted. Clinical application of MSC are mainly attributed to their important four biological properties- the ability to home to sites of inflammation following tissue injury when injected intravenously; to differentiate into various cell types; to secrete multiple bioactive molecules capable of stimulating recovery of injured cells and inhibiting inflammation and to perform immunomodulatory functions. Here, we will discuss these four properties. Moreover, the issues surrounding clinical grade MSCs and principles for MSC therapeutic approaches are also addressed on the transition of MSCs therapy from bench side to bedside.
Editorial: Orchestration of macrophage polarization by polyamines
Authors: Gobert Alain P , Wilson Keith T
Published: April 2012

Discussion on the impact of endogenous polyamines on macrophage function after stimulation with IL-4 or LPS.
Actin stress fibers – assembly, dynamics and biological roles
Authors: Tojkander Sari , Gateva Gergana , Lappalainen Pekka
Published: April 2012

Actin filaments assemble into diverse protrusive and contractile structures to provide force for a number of vital cellular processes. Stress fibers are contractile actomyosin bundles found in many cultured non-muscle cells, where they have a central role in cell adhesion and morphogenesis. Focal-adhesion-anchored stress fibers also have an important role in mechanotransduction. In animal tissues, stress fibers are especially abundant in endothelial cells, myofibroblasts and epithelial cells. Importantly, recent live-cell imaging studies have provided new information regarding the mechanisms of stress fiber assembly and how their contractility is regulated in cells. In addition, these studies might elucidate the general mechanisms by which contractile actomyosin arrays, including muscle cell myofibrils and cytokinetic contractile ring, can be generated in cells. In this Commentary, we discuss recent findings concerning the physiological roles of stress fibers and the mechanism by which these structures are generated in cells.
The Preparation of Palladium Nanoparticles
Authors: Cookson James
Published: April 2012

Palladium nanoparticles are of great importance as catalytic materials, as well as for a number of other applications such as hydrogen storage and sensing. Their synthesis has been wi dely studied and interest in their properties is growing. Here the synthesis of palladium nanoparticles by chemical and electrochemical methods using a variety of stabilisers including organic ligands, salts/surfactants, polymers and dendrimers is reviewed and their potential benefits in catalytic applications are introduced.
Up-scaling surface runoff from plot to catchment scale
Authors: Alaoui A. , Spiess P. , Beyeler M. , Weingartner R.
Published: April 2012

The main aims of this study were to identify and characterize the flow processes at the plot scale, and to up-scale these processes at the catchment scale by Terrain Analysis, using Digital Elevation Models (TauDEMs) based on in-situ sprinkling experiments. To calibrate the TauDEM-based method at the plot scale, in-situ sprinkling experiments were carried out on two plot scales (16 m2 divided into 16 plots of 1 m2 on various slopes). The marked differences in the textural and structural porosities between forest and grassland soil appear to control runoff processes. While grassland soils were characterized by a variable subsurface flow depending mainly on field slope, deep percolation was mainly found in forest soils. In addition, the map of flow directions also shows that two factors play an important role: on the one hand, the spatial sequence of the areas with a predisposition to surface runoff, and on the other, the tortuosity and length of channels that enhance the cumulative water volume in the target outlets. When based on sprinkling experiments, the TauDEM-based method provides more quantitative information on the dynamic of flow at the catchment scale. Furthermore, additional investigations are needed to validate the calculations of flow at a larger scale.
Modelling the impacts of climate change on upland catchments in southwest Scotland using MIKE SHE and the UKCP09 probabilistic projections
Authors: Thompson J. R.
Published: April 2012

Hydrological models of three upland sub-catchments of Loch Dee, southwest Scotland, are calibrated and validated against observed discharge. Perturbed precipitation and potential evapotranspiration (PET) are generated from UKCIP09 projections for Low, Medium and High emissions scenarios for the 2050s and 2080s for probability levels between 10 and 90%. Annual and monthly PET increases for all scenarios. Central estimates of increases in annual PET are up to 10.7 (2050s) and 15.8% (2080s). Precipitation becomes more seasonal, increasing in winter and decreasing in summer for all but the extreme probability levels. Annual precipitation declines for the lowest (up to 30%) probability levels and increases thereafter (up to 5.8% for the 2050s and 10.3% for the 2080s at the 50% level). Changes in discharge are driven by those for precipitation. Although there is uncertainty in changes in annual discharge, most scenarios increase winter discharges (2050s: up to 24.2%; 2080s: up to 50.9% at the 50% level) and reduce summer flows (2050s: up to 34.2%, 2080s: up to 48.7% at the 50% level). Potential impacts include enhanced winter flooding and lower summer reservoir levels with implications for hydropower. Greater seasonality in discharge may impact fisheries and ongoing recovery from surface water acidification.
Natural organic matter export from boreal catchments (the Salaca River basin, Latvia) and its influencing factors
Authors: Klavins Maris , Kokorite Ilga , Eglite Linda , Rodinov Valery
Published: April 2012

A noteworthy increase in the organic matter concentration and export, as well as water colour, in the catchments of the Salaca River has been observed during the last decades. This study investigates factors behind this increase: the impact of climate, land use and human loading changes on the concentrations and export of the organic matter in the Salaca River/Lake Burtnieks catchments. Proportion of wetlands in the river basin, type of land use, and runoff regime can be considered as the main factors influencing the organic carbon loadings. Despite a steady overall tendency of increase, considerable oscillations of organic matter loadings influenced by the changes in the river discharge regime were observed for extended periods of time.
The influence of drained peat soils on diffuse nitrogen pollution of surface water
Authors: Vassiljev Anatoli , Blinova Irina
Published: April 2012

Eutrophication caused by excess nutrient loads is the main problem for Estonian surface waters. Even after the drastic decrease in the application of mineral fertilizers at the beginning of the 1990s, the concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus in many rivers remained at undesirable and unexpectedly high levels. The investigation showed that drained peat soils are an important source of nitrogen export to the surface waters. Runoff of nitrogen from drained peat soils is, on average, 1.5-fold higher than from agricultural lands in Estonia.
Downscaling extreme short-term regional climate model precipitation for urban hydrological applications
Authors: Olsson Jonas , Willén Ulrika , Kawamura Akira
Published: April 2012

Urban hydrological climate change impact assessment requires an assessment of how short-term local precipitation extremes, e.g. expressed as intensity-duration-frequency (IDF) curves, are expected to change in the future. This cannot be done on the basis of regional climate model (RCM) results directly, mainly because of the models' coarse spatial grid and resolution-dependent limitations in process descriptions. In this paper, a stochastic model for downscaling short-term precipitation from RCM grid scale to local (i.e. point) scale is formulated and tested using data from Stockholm, Sweden. In principle, additional RCM variables characterising the weather situation are used to convert from grid box average to local precipitation, and estimate the probability of occurrence in an arbitrary point. Finally, local time series are stochastically simulated and IDF curves derived. The results of the application in Stockholm suggest that: (1) observed IDF-curves may be effectively reproduced by the model; and (2) the future increase of local-scale short-term precipitation extremes may be higher than the predicted increase of short-term extremes on the RCM grid scale.
Temporal variation of spring flood in rivers of the Baltic States
Authors: Reihan Alvina , Kriauciuniene Jurate , Meilutyte-Barauskiene Diana , Kolcova Tatjana
Published: April 2012

Extreme floods can be caused by various combinations of hydrological and meteorological factors and river basin conditions that have not been observed for a long time. Long-term observational series permit estimation of both the frequency and variation of spring floods – the key issues of protection systems. Fortunately, Baltic States have a long-term record of hydrological data for the last 80 years. In this research, spring flood parameters (maximum discharge, height of maximum discharge and its timing) for the Baltic countries were assessed for four periods (1922–2008, 1941–2008, 1961–2008 and 1991–2008). In total, 70 hydrological data series of spring flood parameters were used. To detect trends in time series for these periods, the Mann–Kendall test and the nonparametric Sen's method for the magnitude of the trend were used. The index flood method was used to estimate the maximum discharge in ungauged catchments. The results showed that maximum discharges and heights of spring floods decreased over a longer period. Spring flood peaks took place on earlier dates. Only some significant trends of maximum discharges and their timing were found in the last time period (1991–2008). All these changes could be caused by the increasing ambient temperature and precipitation in the later decades.
Impact of the shale mine on the River Purtse hydrological regime in north-east Estonia
Authors: Vaht Riina , Sepp Mait , Luud Aarne
Published: April 2012

The present paper studies long-term (1923–2005) changes in the hydrological regime of the medium (100–1,000 km2) river of the Ordovician oil shale field of north-east Estonia. The changing regime in the heavily mined catchments is contrasted with a morphologically similar reference catchment (River Keila) where there has been no mining activity. The Gumbel Method and Rodionov Regime Shifts Algorithm (STARS) were used to study high- and low-water changes of the mining area. The study shows that mine water has no significant impact on the River Purtse annual run-off; however, it has influence on the low water period and minimum flow values, increasing the amount of run-off. Mine water discharge can affect the course of the run-off during the high water period and high water season peaks. Therefore, in terms of the river maximum flows return period, there are no major differences between the mining and natural catchments.
Antielastase, antiurease and antioxidant activities of some 3,13-monohydroxy eicosanoic acid isomers
Authors: Sokmen Bilgin , Onar Celik , Yusufoglu Ayse , Yanardag Refiye
Published: April 2012

A series of some 3-13 monohydroxy eicosanoic acid isomers were evaluated for
their antielastase, antiurease and antioxidant activities for the first time
in this study. All the test compounds exhibited antielastase, antiurease and
antioxidant activities. According to the obtained results the hydroxy
eicosanoic acid isomers locating in the middle and close to the middle of
the chain showed higher antielastase, antiurease and antioxidant activities
rather than that of the other isomers. Therefore, 3-13 monohydroxy
eicosanoic acid isomers can be used in agriculture, pharmacy and cosmetic
industries due to their excellent antielastase, antiurease and antioxidant
activities.
DMS - basis for increasing of green distributed generation penetration in distribution networks
Authors: Strezoski Vladimir , Popovic Dragan , Bekut Dusko , Svenda Goran
Published: April 2012

Modern (electric power) distribution utilities are faced with high
penetration of distributed (electric) generation. Renewable generation is of
prime interest. Within this generation, the green one incorporating solar
(photovoltaic) and wind generation is the most important. Consequently, the
following two imperatives are established in modern distribution utilities:
1) absorption of as much of available (connected to network) green generation
as possible and 2) increasing of the limit of green distributed generation
penetration. This generation is a significant basis of Smart Distribution
Grid Concept. Distributed generation transfers passive distribution network
into active one. The active distribution network analysis, control, operation
management and planning become significantly complex. This complexity
radically hinders the achievement of two above stated imperatives referring
to the distributed generation penetration. This paper proves that
Distribution Management System is a unique powerful system that integrates
all tools necessary for surpassing main difficulties in the achievement of
the both imperatives. The proof is obtained by the elaboration of a set of
power applications (mathematical calculations) integrated in the Distribution
Management System. The most important power applications, which deal with
voltage / reactive power control, are specially stressed.
Smart grids concept in electrical distribution system
Authors: Popovic Zeljko , Radmilovic Bratislava , Gacic Vladan
Published: April 2012

This paper defines key business processes in electrical distribution systems
and key elements and priority components that should be (re)defined in these
processes in order to enable the goals of smart grids concept to be fulfilled
in the cost effective way. Activities undertaken in the Power Distribution
Company of ?Elektrovojvodina? (Serbia), which provide the basis for
fulfilling the Smart Grids goals and thus enable full implementation of smart
grids concept are presented in details.
Role of executive agencies for energy efficiency with a view on activities of Serbian Energy Efficiency Agency
Authors: Kovacic Bojan
Published: April 2012

Many countries, particularly in Europe, have executive energy efficiency
agencies at national, regional and local levels that are organized in
different ways. For all of them, it is common that there are existing
strategic needs in their countries for enhancement of conditions and measures
for rational use of energy and fuels. Serbian Energy Efficiency Agency was
established in 2002 within the reform of the energy sector in Serbia and its
current status was defined in 2004 by the Energy Law. It contributes to the
improvement of social responsibility towards energy in all structures of the
state and society, by proposing energy efficiency incentives, promoting
importance of energy efficiency, as well as by managing energy efficiency and
renewable energy programs and projects.
Applicability assessment of central and solar hot water systems integration in Serbia
Authors: Kljajic Miroslav , Petrovic Jovan
Published: April 2012

Energy systems for consumers? supply with sanitary hot water (SHW) can be
considered as a separate category of the system with many similar functions,
performances and integral elements. This similarity of energy systems for SHW
supply and the way in which they are used enable systemic planning, proposing
and undertaking measures for improvements and advancements. This is possible
not only by the reconstruction and modernization of existing technological
solutions but also by their replacement with new, modern and more efficient
solutions. The basic idea and the aim of this paper is the development of a
concept for integrated and upgraded system of SHW supply for different types
of buildings from residential to more complex buildings intended for
different purposes. The analysis is based on the application of a systemic
approach adapted to the conditions in urban communities and includes only
modern but commercial technologies. This paper presents the results of a net
energy analysis of integrated central and solar hot water supply system and
compares it with the conventional sanitary hot water system in the City of
Novi Sad, Serbia. The proposed methodology is demonstrated through a
simulation example. It is shown that 23% reduction in the total system?s
costs can be achieved as compared to the existing solution. Also, the
methodology is applied to a residential block as a unit and obtained results
indicate that investments in the development and construction of integrated
systems are justified.