bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Optimized K-Harmonic Means Algorithm Combined with Modified Particle Swarm Optimization and Cuckoo Search Algorithm
Authors: Bouyer Asgarali
Published: August 2016

Among the data clustering algorithms, k-means (KM) algorithm is one of the most popular clustering techniques due to its simplicity and efficiency. However, k-means is sensitive to initial centers and it has the local optima problem. K-harmonic-means (KHM) clustering algorithm solves the initialization problem of k-means algorithm, but it also has local optima problem. In this paper, we develop a new algorithm for solving this problem based on an improved version of particle swarm optimization (IPSO) algorithm and KHM clustering. In the proposed algorithm, IPSO is equipped with Cuckoo Search algorithm and two new concepts used in PSO in order to improve the efficiency, fast convergence and escape from local optima. IPSO updates positions of particles based on a combination of global worst, global best with personal worst and personal best to dynamically be used in each iteration of the IPSO. The experimental result on five real-world datasets and two artificial datasets confirms that this improved version is superior to k-harmonic means and regular PSO algorithm. The results of the simulation show that the new algorithm is able to create promising solutions with fast convergence, high accuracy and correctness while markedly improving the processing time.
Intra-seasonal Variability of Ball Speed and Coordination of Two Team-Handball Throwing Techniques in Elite Male Adolescent Players.
Authors: Serrien B. , Clijsen R. , Anders S. , Goossens M. , Baeyens J-P.
Published: August 2016

In sports biomechanics and motor control, a thorough study of coordination variability is important to understanding how the human movement system is organized. From a more applied sport science perspective, knowledge about performance variability is essential regarding the evaluation of true sport specific effects of any intervention. While there are many reports of intervention studies in team-handball, no description of the amount of normal variability is available. This study investigated variability of two important throwing techniques in team-handball within elite junior players over a 4-month period during a competitive season. To evaluate ball speed variability, the intra-individual coefficient of variation was calculated. The 95th percentile of ball speed variability over all players was 7%, which can be used as an effect size estimate in future research. For coordination variability, a qualitative description based on the output of neural networks was used. All participants presented multiple coordination patterns, representing multi-stability on a month-to-month timescale and switched between stable states without the manipulation of any control variable. Some limitations in the methodology and applications of neural networks in the present study and in biomechanics and motor control in general are highlighted. When more researchers adopt these methodologies, a more coherent framework for their application can emerge.
Predictive models of the 2015 Rugby World Cup: accuracy and application
Authors: O’Donoghue P. , Ball D. , Eustace J. , McFarlan B. , Nisotaki M.
Published: August 2016

The current investigation compared 12 models of outcomes of international rugby union matches and then used the most accurate model to investigate performances within the 2015 Rugby World Cup. The underlying linear regression models were used within a simulation package that introduced random variability about performance evidenced by the residual distribution of the regression analyses. Each model was used within 10,000 simulations of the 2015 Rugby World Cup from which match outcome and team progression statistics were recorded. The most accurate model with respect to the actual 2015 tournament was developed using data from all seven previous tournaments rather than restricting cases to the most recent three tournaments. The model was more accurate when the data used violated the assumptions of linear regression rather than transforming variables to satisfy the assumptions. The model included World ranking points as a predictor variable and was more accurate than corresponding models that represented relative home advantage as well. The most accurate model used separate models for the pool and knockout stage matches although the 9 models that separating these match types were less accurate on average than when the two match types were considered together. This model was used to investigate properties of the 2015 Rugby World Cup. The tournament disadvantaged three teams in the World’s top 5 who were drawn in the same pool. Teams ranked in the World’s top 7 did not perform as well as predicted while teams ranked 16th and below performed better than predicted suggesting that the strength in depth in international rugby union is increasing. There was a small effect of having additional recovery days from the previous match compared to the opponents which was worth 4.1 points. The information produced by this research should be considered by those design tournaments such as the Rugby World Cup.
Computer Science in Sport – Research and Practice: A book review
Authors: Stuart Morgan
Published: August 2016

Sports informatics and computer science in sport are perhaps the most exciting and fast-moving disciplines across all of sports science. The tremendous parallel growth in digital technology, non-invasive sensor devices, computer vision and machine learning have empowered sports analytics in ways perhaps never seen before. This growth provides great challenges for new entrants and seasoned veterans of sports analytics alike. Keeping pace with new technological innovations requires a thorough and systematic understanding of many diverse topics from computer programming, to database design, machine learning algorithms and sensor technology. Nevertheless, as quickly as the state of the art technology changes, the foundation skills and knowledge about computer science in sport are lasting. Furthermore, resources for students and practitioners across this range of areas are scarce, and the new-release textbook Computer Science in Sport: Research and Practice edited by Professor Arnold Baca, provides much of the foundation knowledge required for working in sports informatics. This is certainly a comprehensive text that will be a valuable resource for many readers.
Changes in physical properties of sandy soil after long-term compost treatment
Authors: Aranyos József Tibor , Tomócsik Attila , Makádi Marianna , Mészáros József , Blaskó Lajos
Published: August 2016

Studying the long-term effect of composted sewage sludge application on chemical, physical and biological properties of soil, an experiment was established in 2003 at the Research Institute of Nyíregyháza in Hungary. The applied compost was prepared from sewage sludge (40%), straw (25%), bentonite (5%) and rhyolite (30%). The compost was ploughed into the 0-25 cm soil layer every 3rd year in the following amounts: 0, 9, 18 and 27 Mg ha−1 of dry matter. As expected, the compost application improved the structure of sandy soil, which is related with an increase in the organic matter content of soil. The infiltration into soil was improved significantly, reducing the water erosion under simulated high intensity rainfall. The soil compaction level was reduced in the first year after compost re-treatment. In accordance with the decrease in bulk density, the air permeability of soil increased tendentially. However, in the second year the positive effects of compost application were observed only in the plots treated with the highest compost dose because of quick degradation of the organic matter. According to the results, the sewage sludge compost seems to be an effective soil improving material for acidic sandy soils, but the beneficial effect of application lasts only for two years.
Correlative study of peripheral ATP1A1 gene expression level to anxiety severity score on major depressive disorder patients
Authors: Zhao Jingjie , Guo Xu , Du Yi , Han Yu , Wang Yongzhi , Li Li , Qian Jialin , Li Mingzhen , Wu Huijuan , Golden Teresa , Wu Ning
Published: August 2016

Background:

Major depressive disorder (MDD) frequently co-occurs with other psychiatric problems. Our previous study showed that ATP1A1 gene expression level was significantly decreased in MDD patients. This research explores the potential correlations between the ATP1A1 expression level reduction and MDD patients’ clinical manifestation.

Methods:

All participant patients were diagnosed by Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders – 4th edition (DSM-IV). Hamilton rating scale for depression (HAM-D) and anxiety (HAM-A) were applied to group patients into different categories. ATP1A1 expression level was measured by reverse transcript real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Results:

ATP1A1 expression levels of all MDD subgroups showed significant reduction compared to the control group (p<0.01). Further, the trend of ATP1A1 expression level reduction is significantly related to MDD patients’ HAM-A scores (p<0.01). However, there was no significance between ATP1A1 level and HAM-D scores (p>0.05).

Conclusions:

ATP1A1 expression level reduction is related to MDD anxiety score, which may be an explanation for the clinical manifestations and the underlining physiological mechanisms.
Biochemical fingerprint and pharmacological applications ofBarleria noctifloraL.f. leaves
Authors: Alagar Yadav Sangilimuthu , Ramalingam Sathishkumar , Jebamalairaj Anitha , Subban Ravi , Sundaram Karpagavalli Mennakshi
Published: August 2016

Background

Antioxidant and antihistamine agents fromBarleria noctifloraL.f. as natural source due to the existing modern medicine give various adverse effects to overcome these problems with natural products.

Methods

B. noctifloraleaves extract was fractionated with column chromatography; the homogenized fractions were monitored with thin layer chromatography (TLC) and characterized by using UV–visible, FT-IR,1H NMR,13C NMR and mass spectrometry spectral studies. The volatile phytoconstituents ofB. noctifloraextract were analysed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Phytoconstituents fromB. noctifloraleaves extract were screened for their antioxidant and antihistamine potentialin vitro(2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity, 2,2′-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiozoline-6-sulfonic acid radical decolouration assay, nitric oxide radical scavenging activity, superoxide radical scavenging activity and hydrogen peroxide radical scavenging activity) andin silico(molecular docking), respectively.

Results

Antioxidant and antihistamine barlerinoside has been isolated and characterized from the leaves ofB. noctifloraL.f. Barlerinoside revealed their free-radical scavenging ability on OH−, OH•, NO−, O2−and H2O2radicals and found high percentage inhibition against OH−radical at the IC50value of 50.45±2.52  µg. The methanol (MeOH) extract ofB. noctifloraleaves contains cyclotene; N,N-dimethylglycine; tetrahydrocyclopenta [1,3] dioxin-4-one; phenol, 2-methoxy-; benzofuran, 2-methyl-; 1,4:3,6-dianhydro-α-d-glucopyranose; 2-methoxy-4-vinylphenol; 1,3;2,5-dimethylene-l-rhamnitol; levoglucosan and bicyclo[2.2.2]oct-7-ene-2,5-dione as being the major compounds. Among phytoconstituents present in the extract, the hexestrol; 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, bis(2-methylpropyl) ester; 1-(3,6,6-trimethyl-1,6,7,7a-tetrahydrocyclopenta[c]pyran-1-yl) ethanone; megastigmatrienone; furan interacted with histamine H1receptor and bind at GLU-177 and ASP-178 with high binding energy score −13.95, −13.41, −12.56, −12.03, and −11.72 kcal/mol, respectively, and the expected hydrolysed products of compound-1a and compound-1b from barlerinoside showed −8.91 and −8.68 kcal/mol binding energy against the histamine H1receptor. This showed that the active ligands exactly bind with active binding site of the protein.

Conclusions

We can conclude that isolated barlerinoside fromB. noctfloraL.f. has potent antioxidant activity against synthetic free radicals and antihistamine activity against histamine H1receptor.
Characterization of a New Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus Isolates Found in Hippeastrum hybridum (Hort.) Plants in Poland
Authors: Berniak Hanna
Published: August 2016

Two Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) isolates H1 and H2 found in Hippeastrum hybridum plants were characterized based on biological, serological, and molecular properties. Virus isolates showed differences in symptom expression – H1 isolate displayed severe necrotic spots and patterns, whereas mild mosaic symptoms were observed on H2-infected H. hybridum plants. Both TSWV isolates showed comparable reactivity with TSWV-specific antibodies and they induced similar symptoms on herbaceous indicator plants, but some differences between these isolates were detected at the nucleotide sequence level of genomic S and M ssRNAs segment fragments. The nucleotide sequences encoding nucleocapsid (N) and nonstructural (NSs and NSm) proteins showed 98.2%, 97.5%, and 96.5% identity, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis of N and NSs sequences conducted for tested isolates and 31 TSWV isolates included for comparison revealed that H1 and H2 isolates fell into the same cluster and they were grouped together with isolates found previously in different vegetables, ornamentals, and weeds. When NSm ORF was analyzed, the tested isolates formed a separate cluster: H1 isolate showed the highest affinity with TSWV isolates infecting chrysanthemum and pepper plants, whereas H2 isolate was most closely related to other virus isolates found in sweet pepper and tomatoes. These results indicate that both isolates were reassortants between different virus isolates, and represented two novel genetic patterns of TSWV.
Reinforcing Wooden Composite with Glass Fiber Fabric - Manufacturing Technology as a Factor Limiting Mechanical Properties and Reliability
Authors: Deskiewicz Adam , Kowalik Michał , Milewicz Michał , Matyjewski Marek , Perz Rafał
Published: August 2016

This paper investigates the strength and reliability of the wooden composites reinforced with glass fiber for the skateboard application. Three different methods of glass-fiber reinforcement have been used to prepare totally 94 samples, including control trial. Two lamination methods have been utilized: vacuum and HPL (High Pressure Lamination). Conducted analysis allowed to determine preferred production technique.
Investigation of Lubrication Properties of Petroleum Fuel and Biohydrocarbon Blends
Authors: Gawron Bartosz , Karp Grażyna
Published: August 2016

The paper covers issues regarding lubricity of petroleum fuels used in piston and turbine engines, containing hydrocarbon biocomponents. Basing on available literature it can be said that the most prospective fuel components are biohydrocarbons. The paper describes effect of biohydrocarbons included in aviation fuel and diesel fuel on lubricity of such blends. The analysis covers two processes for obtaining biohydrocarbons, the HVO and the Fischer-Tropsch process. Due to problems with actual products acquiring, biohydrocarbons models representing chemically the actual ones from specific process. Lubricity testing was carried out according to standard test methods.
Newborn Screening for Thyroid-stimulating Hormone as an Indicator for Assessment of Iodine Status in the Republic of Macedonia
Authors: Anastasovska Violeta , Kocova Mirjana
Published: August 2016

Background:Iodine deficiency is associated with goiter and impaired brain function leading to cretinism. An increased frequency of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) measurements above 5 mIU/L on newborn screening points toward an impaired iodine status of the population.

Methods:A 13-year retrospective analysis was performed in 228,266 newborns participating in the national thyroid newborn screening program. The TSH concentration was measured in dry blood spots collected by heel stick on filter paper, 48 hours after birth, using fluoroimmunometric DELFIA method.

Results:Out of 236,378 live-born infants, 228,266 (96.6%) have been screened for TSH, of which 198,213 (86.8%) were retrospectively evaluated for TSH levels above 5 mIU/L. Neonates with congenital hypothyroidism, prematurity, and low birth weight were excluded from the evaluation, as well as the inadequately sampled neonates (13.2%). A national prevalence of 3.08% newborns (n=6,105) with TSH > 5 mIU/L was found. Higher percentages were noted in two regions of the country, indicating possible mild iodine deficiency in these regions and shifting the overall average to above 3%.

Conclusions:Our results indicate overall iodine sufficiency in the Macedonian population. Additional assessment of the iodine intake in the regions with suspected mild iodine deficiency is needed to prevent suboptimal cognitive and psychomotor outcomes.
Interpretation of thyroid glands in a group of healthy children: real-time ultrasonography elastography study
Authors: Yurttutan Nursel , Gungor Gulay , Bilal Nagihan , Kizildag Betul , Baykara Murat , Sarica Mehmet Akif
Published: August 2016

Background:

This study aimed to determine the strain index (SI) of normal thyroid parenchyma in a group of healthy children, using ultrasound elastography (USE).

Methods:

The participants consisted of 54 healthy children. The USE of the normal thyroid parenchyma was performed by using the Hitachi Hi VisionPreirus model ultrasonography (US) device. By following sinusoidal waves at the base of the screen, regular and slight compressions and decompressions were made by the transducer. After the regular sinusoidal waves were acquired, standard region of interest (ROI) circles were used to measure the SI values of the thyroid glands by placing one ROI on a superficial part of the normal thyroid gland parenchyma and the other on the adjacent soft tissue at the same depth (within 10-mm proximity). Three measurements were obtained for each (right and left) thyroid gland, and the mean value was used for statistics.

Results:

The mean SI value of normal thyroid glands was 0.54±0.38 for the whole group. There was no statistically significant difference between girls and boys on the basis of age, weight, height, BMI (body mass index), and thyroid SI values (p=0.15, p=0.18, p=0.12, p=0.31, and p=0.96, respectively). No correlation was found between thyroid gland SI values and each of the following variables: age (r=0.22, p=0.15), gender (r=0.007, p=0.96), and BMI (r=0.26, p=0.09).

Conclusions:

The study determined the normal elasticity values of thyroid glands in healthy children. Such information can serve as a baseline from which thyroid diseases can be examined.
Operational Thinking and Its Application in Operational Design
Authors: Spišák Ján
Published: August 2016

Operational thinking is a significant aspect of the military decision-making process, applied by military commanders and their staffs. For a sound resolution of military problems, they are required to think creatively about the application of operational art. The deficiency of operational thinking may not only lead to unwanted risks and unintentional losses in operations; it can also thwart the chances for expected and decisive success. The purpose of the paper is to discuss the very elementary ideas of operational thinking that commanders and operational planners must deal with, to visualize and design feasible military approaches for the conduct of operations. Rather than strict official definitions there are introduced possible content, procedures and guidelines that must be taken into consideration to define and solve complex and ill-structured military problems.
Investigations of Wind Shear Distribution on the Baltic Shore of Latvia
Authors: Bezrukovs V. , Zacepins A. , Bezrukovs Vl. , Komashilovs V.
Published: August 2016

The paper presents a review of wind parameter measurement complexes and investigation methods used for potential wind energy evaluation. Based on results of long-term investigations of wind shear distribution regularities are shown up to 160 m height on the Baltic Sea shore. Distribution of potential wind energy in Latvia is shown as a map and table of average and average cubic wind speed values. Database of wind parameter measurements is available at a public website.
Influence of Voltage Dips on the Operation of Brushless Exciter System of Synchronous Machines
Authors: Fedotov A. , Leonov A. , Vagapov G. , Mutule A.
Published: August 2016

This paper presents a mathematical model with continuous variables for brushless exciter system of synchronous machines, containing the thyristor elements. Discrete Laplace transform is used for transition from a mathematical model of a system with variable structure in continuous variables to equation finite difference with permanent structure. Then inverse transition is made to a mathematical model in continuous variables with permanent structure.
Impact of the Former Salaspils Nuclear Reactor on the Surrounding Territory
Authors: Riekstina D. , Berzins J. , Krasta T. , Kizane G. , Rudzitis J.
Published: August 2016

The paper presents results of the long-term environment radioactivity monitoring in the vicinity of the decommissioned Salaspils Nuclear Reactor. Data include Cs-137 contamination levels of soils, H-3 concentration in ground waters, as well as gross beta activity of sewage and rainwater drainage of SNR. Special attention is devoted to the radioactive pollution of water due to leakage from the special wastewater basin detected in December 2014.
Contralateral risk reducing mastectomy in Non-BRCA-Mutated patients
Authors: Falco Giuseppe , Rocco Nicola , Bordoni Daniele , Marano Luigi , Accurso Antonello , Buccelli Claudio , Di Lorenzo Pierpaolo , Capasso Emanuele , Policino Fabio , Niola Massimo , Ferrari Guglielmo
Published: August 2016

The use of contralateral risk reducing mastectomy (CRRM) is indicated in women affected by breast cancer, who are at high risk of developing a contralateral breast cancer, particularly women with genetic mutation of BRCA1, BRCA2 and P53. However we should consider that the genes described above account for only 20-30% of the excess familiar risk. What is contralaterally indicated when genetic assessment results negative for mutation in a young patient with unilateral breast cancer? Is it ethically correct to remove a contralateral “healthy” breast? CRRM rates continue to rise all over the world although CRRM seems not to improve overall survival in women with unilateral sporadic breast cancer. The decision to pursue CRRM as part of treatment in women who have a low-to-moderate risk of developing a secondary cancer in the contralateral breast should consider both breast cancer individual-features and patients preferences, but should be not supported by the surgeon and avoided as first approach with the exception of women highly worried about cancer. Prospective studies are needed to identify cohorts of patients most likely to benefit from CRRM.
Stochastic simulation and robust design optimization of integrated photonic filters
Authors: Weng Tsui-Wei , Melati Daniele , Melloni Andrea , Daniel Luca
Published: August 2016

Manufacturing variations are becoming an unavoidable issue in modern fabrication processes; therefore, it is crucial to be able to include stochastic uncertainties in the design phase. In this paper, integrated photonic coupled ring resonator filters are considered as an example of significant interest. The sparsity structure in photonic circuits is exploited to construct a sparse combined generalized polynomial chaos model, which is then used to analyze related statistics and perform robust design optimization. Simulation results show that the optimized circuits are more robust to fabrication process variations and achieve a reduction of 11%–35% in the mean square errors of the 3 dB bandwidth compared to unoptimized nominal designs.
The Role of Accountability Arrangements in Social Innovations: Evidence from the UK and Slovakia
Authors: Nemec Juraj , Orviska Marta , Lawson Colin
Published: August 2016

Our research focuses on selected accountability mechanisms in the two countries. In Slovakia these are the Supreme Audit Office (SAO) and the Ombudsman. In the UK, at the national level we chose the Committee of Public Accounts (PAC), the National Audit Office (NAO) and the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) and on the local level the relatively recently introduced local government system of Scrutiny and Overview.

The goal of our article is to assess the potential contribution of these accountability arrangements to the anchoring of social innovation in the public sector. The theory anticipates that accountability institutions such as the SAO and Ombudsman may create feedback loops supporting public innovations. We undertook detailed checks on the concrete situation in the Slovak Republic and in the UK. On the basis of the comprehensive set of data reviewed, including reports, interviews and more generally available information, we can confidently conclude that while in Slovakia such a feedback loop barely functions, in the UK it does function on a limited but still significant scale. In the last part we provide selected arguments why the Slovak situation is less positive.
Effective Legal Protection against the Excessive Length of Administrative Decision-Making: The Cases of Slovenia and Croatia
Authors: Sever Tina , Đanić Ana , Kovać Polonca
Published: August 2016

In administrative matters, the parties usually have a right of access to the court and to a fair trial within a reasonable time limit, as defined by constitutions, only after the exhaustion of appeals. Judicial review is performed in a majority of states by a specialised administrative court in accordance with Articles 6 and 13 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). Based on a comparative research analysis of supranational and national normative law and European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) case law, this paper provides insight into the extent to which administrative matters can be reviewed in administrative disputes as well as into the legal remedies available to the parties, especially when the authorities violate time limits, focusing on the compliance of the regulation in Slovenia and Croatia with the ECHR standards. The paper also illustrates a comparative perspective of regulation in other European countries, namely Austria and Estonia. Our findings show the importance of the awareness of the necessary interplay between acts on administrative procedure and acts on administrative disputes for an effective realisation of the parties’ rights and the public interest, with administrative justice ensuring a safety net by guaranteeing an effective legal remedy.
Detection of gastric Helicobacter spp. in stool samples of dogs with gastritis
Authors: Jankowski M. , Spużak J. , Kubiak K. , Glińska-Suchocka K. , Biernat M.
Published: August 2016

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and identify the species of gastric Helicobacter in the stool of dogs with gastritis. The study was carried out on thirty dogs of different breeds, of both genders and of various ages, diagnosed with gastritis. Helicobacter spp. was detected in stool samples using the nested-PCR method. Helicobacter bacteria were identified in stool samples from seven (23.3%) dogs. Helicobacter heilmannii was found to be the most common species of gastric Helicobacter. Helicobacter salomonis was identified much less frequently, while Helicobacter felis, Helicobacter pylori and Helicobacter bizzozeronii were not detected in any of the samples.
Production and characterization of egg yolk antibody (IgY) against recombinant VP8-S2 antigen
Authors: Nasiri K. , Nassiri M.R. , Tahmoorespur M. , Haghparast A. , Zibaee S.
Published: August 2016

Bovine Rotavirus and Bovine Coronavirus are the most important causes of diarrhea in newborn calves and in some other species such as pigs and sheep. VP8 subunit of rotavirus is the major determinant of the viral infectivity and neutralization. Spike glycoprotein of coronavirus is responsible for induction of neutralizing antibody response. Studies showed that immunoglobulin of egg yolk (IgY) from immunized hens has been identified to be a convenient source for specific antibodies for using in immunotherapy and immunodiagnostic to limit the infections.

In this study, chimeric VP8-S2 gene was designed using by computational techniques. The chimeric VP8-S2 gene was cloned and sub-cloned into pGH and pET32a (+) vectors. Then, recombinant pET32a-VP8-S2 vector was transferred into E. coli BL21 CodonPlus (DE3). The expressed protein was purified by Ni-NTA chromatography column. Hens were immunized with the purified VP8-S2 protein three times. IgY was purified from egg yolks using polyethylene glycol precipitation method. Activity and specificity of anti-VP8-S2 IgY were detected by dot-blotting, Western-blotting and indirect ELISA.

We obtained anti-VP8-S2 IgY by immunizing hens with the recombinant VP8-S2 protein. The anti-VP8-S2 IgY was showed to bind specifically to the chimeric VP8-S2 protein by dot-blotting, Western-blotting analyses and indirect ELISA. The result of this study indicated that such construction can be useful to investigate as candidates for development of detection methods for simultaneous diagnosis of both infections. Specific IgY against the recombinant VP8-S2 could be recommended as a candidate for passive immunization against bovine rotavirus and bovine coronavirus.
Effect of neonatal or adult heat acclimation on plasma fT3 level, testicular thyroid receptors expression in male rats and testicular steroidogenesis in vitro in response to triiodothyronine treatment
Authors: Kurowicka B. , Chrusciel M. , Zmijewska A. , Kotwica G.
Published: August 2016

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of heat acclimation of neonatal and adult rats on their testes response toin vitrotreatment with triiodothyronine (T3). Four groups of rats were housed from birth as: 1) control (CR) at 20°C for 90 days, 2) neonatal heat-acclimated (NHA) at 34°C for 90 days, 3) adult heat-acclimated (AHA) at 20°C for 45 days followed by 45 days at 34°C and 4) de-acclimated (DA) at 34°C for 45 days followed by 45 days at 20°C. Blood plasma and both testes were harvested from 90-day old rats. Testicular slices were then submitted toin vitrotreatment with T3 (100 ng/ml) for 8 h. Plasma fT3 level was lower in AHA, NHA and DA groups than in CR group. Basal thyroid hormone receptor α1 (Thra1) expression was higher in testes of NHA and DA and β1 receptor (Thrb1) in DA ratsvs.other groups. In thein vitroexperiment, T3: 1) decreasedThra1expression in all groups andThrb1in DA group, 2) increasedStarexpression in CR, NHA and DA groups, andHsd17b3expression in NHA group, 3) decreased the expression ofCyp11a1in NHA and DA groups, andCyp19a1in all the groups, 4) did not affect the activity of steroidogenic enzymes and steroid secretion (A4, T, E2) in all the groups. These results indicate, that heat acclimation of rats, depending on their age, mainly affects the testicular expression of steroidogenic enzymes in response to short-lasting treatment with T3.
Influence of various carbohydrate sources on postprandial glucose, insulin and NEFA concentrations in obese cats
Authors: Mori A. , Ueda K. , Lee P. , Oda H. , Ishioka K. , Sako T.
Published: August 2016

Carbohydrate is an important source of energy, which can significantly affect postprandial blood glucose and insulin levels in cats. In healthy animals, this is not a big concern; however, in obese and diabetic animals, this is an important detail. In the present study, the impact of four different carbohydrate sources (glucose, maltose, corn starch, and trehalose) on short-term post-prandial serum glucose, insulin, and non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) concentrations was investigated with four obese cats. Each of the carbohydrate sources was added to a commercial wet food diet for feeding the animals. A significant difference was observed in postprandial glucose, insulin, and NEFA area under the curve (AUC) values between each carbohydrate source in obese cats. Furthermore, glucose and maltose induced the highest postprandial glucose and insulin AUC values, whereas trehalose induced the lowest postprandial glucose and insulin AUC value amongst all carbohydrate sources, respectively, in obese cats. However, trehalose has a higher risk of inducing side effects, such as diarrhea, as compared to other carbohydrate sources. As such, different carbohydrate sources appear to have a very significant impact on post-prandial glycemia and subsequent insulin requirement levels in obese cats. These results might be useful when selecting a prescription diet for obese or diabetic cats. In addition, maltose appears to be capable of inducing experimentally evoked postprandial hyperglycemia in obese cats, which may serve as a good tool for use to check the impact and effectiveness of newly developed oral hypoglycemic drugs or supplements for cats in future experiments.
Understory Changes in Fraxinus excelsior Stands in Response to Dieback in Latvia
Authors: Pušpure Ilze , Laiviņš Māris , Matisons Roberts , Gaitnieks Tālis
Published: August 2016

Intense dieback of Fraxinus excelsior L. has been causing rapid changes in advance growth of trees and understory shrub growth of the affected stands. In this study, changes in composition and density of understory were studied in 15 permanent plots (each 235.6 m2), repeatedly sampled in 2005, 2010, and 2015. Within each plot, the number and average height of understory individuals were determined. The successional changes in understory were assessed by Detrended Correspondence Analysis. In total, 11 advance growth and 20 undergrowth species were recorded. A significant increase in the density of understory was observed only in 2015, mainly due to understorey growth of Corylus avellana L., Padus avium Mill., and Lonicera xylosteum L. Regarding advanced growth, the highest density was observed for Ulmus glabra Huds., F. excelsior and Acer platanoides L.; the density of A. platanoides and F. excelsior increased particularly in the period from 2010–2015. The observed successional changes suggested individuality of development of the affected stands according to the composition of the remaining and neighbouring canopy trees.
Bedeutung der Frühstücksmahlzeit für die Regulation des Körpergewichts und das kardiometabolische Risiko
Authors: Bosy-Westphal Anja , Nas Alessa , Hägele Franziska
Published: August 2016

Epidemiologische Studien finden einen Zusammenhang zwischen dem Weglassen der Frühstücksmahlzeit und dem Risiko für Adipositas, Typ-2-Diabetes und kardiovaskuläre Erkrankungen. Randomisierte kontrollierte Studien lassen dagegen Zweifel an der kausalen Bedeutung des Frühstücks. Studien mit kontrollierter Energiezufuhr liefern demgegenüber wichtige Hinweise auf zugrunde liegende Mechanismen für die Dysregulation der Energiebilanz und des Stoffwechsels.
Experimental measurements of U24Py nanocluster behavior in aqueous solution
Authors: Flynn Shannon L. , Szymanowski Jennifer E. S. , Dembowski Mateusz , Burns Peter C. , Fein Jeremy B.
Published: August 2016

Uranyl peroxide nanoclusters may impact the mobility and partitioning of uranium at contaminated sites and could be used in the isolation of uranium during the reprocessing of nuclear waste. Their behavior in aqueous systems must be better understood to predict the environmental fate of uranyl peroxide nanoclusters and for their use in engineered systems. The aqueous stability of only one uranyl peroxide nanocluster, U60 (K16Li44[UO2(O2)OH]60), has been studied to date [Flynn, S. L., Szymanowski, J. E. S., Gao, Y., Liu, T., Burns, P. C., Fein, J. B.: Experimental measurements of U60 nanocluster stability in aqueous solution. Geochemica et Cosmochimica Acta 156, 94–105 (2015)]. In this study, we measured the aqueous stability of a second uranyl peroxide nanocluster, U24Py (Na30[(UO2)24(O2)24(HP2O7)6(H2P2O7)6]), in batch systems as a function of time, pH, and nanocluster concentration, and then compared the aqueous behavior of U24Py to U60 to determine whether the size and morphology differences result in differences in their aqueous behaviors. Systems containing U24Py nanoclusters took over 30 days to achieve steady-state concentrations of monomeric U, Na, and P, illustrating slower reaction kinetics than parallel U60 systems. Furthermore, U24Py exhibited lower stability in solution than U60, with an average of 72% of the total mass in each nanocluster suspension being associated with the U24Py nanocluster, whereas 97% was associated with the U60 nanocluster in parallel experiments [Flynn, S. L., Szymanowski, J. E. S., Gao, Y., Liu, T., Burns, P. C., Fein, J. B.: Experimental measurements of U60 nanocluster stability in aqueous solution. Geochemica et Cosmochimica Acta 156, 94–105 (2015)]. The measurements from the batch experiments were used to calculate ion activity product (IAP) values for the reaction between the U24Py nanocluster and its constituent monomeric aqueous species. The IAP values, calculated assuming the activity of the U24Py nanocluster is equal to its concentration in solution, exhibit a significantly lower nanocluster concentration dependence than those IAP values calculated assuming an activity of 1 for the nanocluster. The inclusion of a deprotonation reaction for U24Py minimizes the pH dependence of the calculated IAP values. The modeling results suggest that the U24Py nanocluster experiences sequential deprotonation. Taken together, the results indicate that the aqueous behavior of the U24Py nanocluster, like that of U60, is best described as that of an aqueous complex.
Belief propagation in genotype-phenotype networks
Authors: Moharil Janhavi , May Paul , Gaile Daniel P. , Blair Rachael Hageman
Published: August 2016

Graphical models have proven to be a valuable tool for connecting genotypes and phenotypes. Structural learning of phenotype-genotype networks has received considerable attention in the post-genome era. In recent years, a dozen different methods have emerged for network inference, which leverage natural variation that arises in certain genetic populations. The structure of the network itself can be used to form hypotheses based on the inferred direct and indirect network relationships, but represents a premature endpoint to the graphical analyses. In this work, we extend this endpoint. We examine the unexplored problem of perturbing a given network structure, and quantifying the system-wide effects on the network in a node-wise manner. The perturbation is achieved through the setting of values of phenotype node(s), which may reflect an inhibition or activation, and propagating this information through the entire network. We leverage belief propagation methods in Conditional Gaussian Bayesian Networks (CG-BNs), in order to absorb and propagate phenotypic evidence through the network. We show that the modeling assumptions adopted for genotype-phenotype networks represent an important sub-class of CG-BNs, which possess properties that ensure exact inference in the propagation scheme. The system-wide effects of the perturbation are quantified in a node-wise manner through the comparison of perturbed and unperturbed marginal distributions using a symmetric Kullback-Leibler divergence. Applications to kidney and skin cancer expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) data from different
Serum insulin-like growth factor-1 and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 levels in patients with chronic hepatitis B / Kronik hepatit B hastalarında serum insülin benzeri büyüme faktörü 1 (IGF-1) ve insülin benzeri büyüme faktörü bağlayıcı protein 3 (IGFBP-3) düzeyleri
Authors: Ulusoy Cemalettin , Haklar Goncagül , Kızıltaş Şafak , İmeryüz Neşe , Yaman Ali
Published: August 2016

Objective: Decreased serum insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and insulin like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) levels have been found in patients with chronic liver disease of different etiologies, but these factors have not been studied extensively in patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV)-induced chronic liver disease.

Methods: We have investigated serum IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 levels in 40 patients with chronic HBV and 40 patients with HBV-induced cirrhosis. According to Child-Pugh classification cirrhotic patients were divided into three groups. Forty age-and sex-matched healthy subjects served as controls. IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 levels were measured by immunochemiluminescence. The results were compared with those for serum albumin, total bilirubin, transaminase activity, and with prothrombin time.

Results: IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 levels were significantly lower in patients with cirrhosis than in those with chronic HBV and in controls (p<0.001). In chronic HBV patients, IGFBP-3 levels were significantly lower than in controls (p=0.013). IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 levels were significantly lower in cirrhotic patients with Child-Pugh stage B and Child-Pugh stage C compared with Child-Pugh stage A (for IGF-1 p=0.037 and p<0.001, for IGFBP-3 p=0.036 and p<0.001, respectively). In patients with Child-Pugh stage C significantly IGF-1 levels were lower than in patients with Child-Pugh stage B (p=0.003). IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 levels were positively correlated with serum albumin concentrations and negatively correlated with serum total bilirubin and prothrombin time concentrations in cirrhotic patients. IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 levels in chronic HBV patients were negatively correlated with serum transaminases.

Conclusion: We conclude that serum levels of IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 may be useful markers for liver dysfunction in patients with HBV-induced chronic liver disease.
A short guideline on chronic kidney disease for medical laboratory practice / Kronik böbrek hastalığında tıbbi laboratuvar uygulamaları için kısa kılavuz
Authors: Abuşoğlu Sedat , Aydın İlknur , Bakar Funda , Bekdemir Tan , Gülbahar Özlem , İşlekel Hüray , Özarda Yeşim , Pektaş Macit , Pir Kamil , Portakal Oytun , Serdar Muhittin , Turhan Turan , Yüce Doğan , Zengi Oğuzhan
Published: August 2016

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is asymptomatic in the early stage. Kidney function might be lost 90% when the symptoms are overt. However, in case of early detection, progression of the disease can be prevented or delayed. If not detected it results in end stage renal disease. Therefore, the level of awareness about CKD should be increased. The role of medical laboratory is utmost important for the diagnosis and staging of CKD. In this paper, the main tasks of the laboratory specialists are described and the outlines are as follows.

• Creatinine assays should be traceable to internationally recognised reference materials and methods, specifically isotope dilution mass spectrometry.

• When reporting the creatinine result, eGFR should also be reported in adult (>18 years) population. A warning expression should be included in the report form if eGFR result is <60 mL/min/1.73 m2.

• eGFR values should be expressed quantitatively up to 90 mL/min/1.73 m2 by CKD-EPI equation. Above 90 mL/ min/1.73 m2, eGFR values can be expressed quantitatively or >90 mL/min/1.73 m2.

• eGFR equations of the adult population should not be used for pediatric population. Different equations utilizing also patient height should be used. The enzymatic creatinine assay should be preferred. eGFR based on cystatin C can be used for confirmation in the pediatric population.

• Cystatin C measurements, at least when eGFR based on creatinine is not reliable and for confirmation should be encouraged.

• Proteinuria or albuminuria values should be measured in spot samples and reported in proportion to creatinine.
LIMT is a novel metastasis inhibiting lncRNA suppressed by EGF and downregulated in aggressive breast cancer
Authors: Sas‐Chen Aldema , Aure Miriam R , Leibovich Limor , Carvalho Silvia , Enuka Yehoshua , Körner Cindy , Polycarpou‐Schwarz Maria , Lavi Sara , Nevo Nava , Kuznetsov Yuri , Yuan Justin , Azuaje Francisco ,   Oslo Breast Cancer Research Consortium (OSBREAC), Ulitsky Igor , Diederichs Sven , Wiemann Stefan , Yakhini Zohar , Kristensen Vessela N , Børresen‐Dale Anne‐Lise , Yarden Yosef
Published: August 2016

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging as regulators of gene expression in pathogenesis, including cancer. Recently, lncRNAs have been implicated in progression of specific subtypes of breast cancer. One aggressive, basal‐like subtype associates with increased EGFR signaling, while another, the HER2‐enriched subtype, engages a kin of EGFR. Based on the premise that EGFR‐regulated lncRNAs might control the aggressiveness of basal‐like tumors, we identified multiple EGFR‐inducible lncRNAs in basal‐like normal cells and overlaid them with the transcriptomes of over 3,000 breast cancer patients. This led to the identification of 11 prognostic lncRNAs. Functional analyses of this group uncovered LINC01089 (here renamed LncRNA Inhibiting Metastasis; LIMT), a highly conserved lncRNA, which is depleted in basal‐like and in HER2‐positive tumors, and the low expression of which predicts poor patient prognosis. Interestingly, EGF rapidly downregulates LIMT expression by enhancing histone deacetylation at the respective promoter. We also find that LIMT inhibits extracellular matrix invasion of mammary cells in vitro and tumor metastasis in vivo. In conclusion, lncRNAs dynamically regulated by growth factors might act as novel drivers of cancer progression and serve as prognostic biomarkers.
MANAGEMENT OF ENDOCRINE DISEASE: The effect of vitamin D supplementation on glycaemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Krul-Poel Yvonne H M , ter Wee Marieke M , Lips Paul , Simsek Suat
Published: August 2016

Objective

Epidemiologic studies suggest that vitamin D status plays a role in glycaemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes. However, intervention studies yielded inconsistent results. The aim of this study is to systematically review the effect of vitamin D supplementation on glycaemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

Systematic review and meta-analysis. We searched Medline, Embase and the Cochrane Library for RCTs examining the effect of vitamin D supplementation on glycaemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes. A random-effects model meta-analysis was performed to obtain a summarized outcome of vitamin D supplementation on HbA1c, fasting glucose and homeostasis model assessment – insulin resistance (HOMA-IR).

Results

Twenty-three RCTs were included in this systematic review representing a total of 1797 patients with type 2 diabetes. Mean (± s.d.) change in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D varied from 1.8 ± 10.2 nmol/L to 80.1 ± 54.0 nmol/L. Nineteen studies included HbA1c as outcome variable. Combining these studies no significant effect in change of HbA1c was seen after vitamin D intervention compared with placebo. A significant effect of vitamin D supplementation was seen on fasting glucose in a subgroup of studies (n = 4) with a mean baseline HbA1c ≥ 8% (64 mmol/mol) (standardized difference in means: 0.36; 95% CI: 0.12–0.61, P = 0.003).

Conclusions

Current evidence of RCTs does not support short-term vitamin D supplementation in a heterogeneous population with type 2 diabetes. However, in patients with poorly controlled diabetes, a favourable effect of vitamin D is seen on fasting glucose.
Genetics of primary hyperaldosteronism
Authors: Dutta Ravi Kumar , Söderkvist Peter , Gimm Oliver
Published: August 2016

Hypertension is a common medical condition and affects approximately 20% of the population in developed countries. Primary aldosteronism is the most common form of secondary hypertension and affects 8–13% of patients with hypertension. The two most common causes of primary aldosteronism are aldosterone-producing adenoma and bilateral adrenal hyperplasia. Familial hyperaldosteronism types I, II and III are the known genetic syndromes, in which both adrenal glands produce excessive amounts of aldosterone. However, only a minority of patients with primary aldosteronism have one of these syndromes. Several novel susceptibility genes have been found to be mutated in aldosterone-producing adenomas:KCNJ5,ATP1A1,ATP2B3,CTNNB1, CACNA1D, CACNA1HandARMC5. This review describes the genes currently known to be responsible for primary aldosteronism, discusses the origin of aldosterone-producing adenomas and considers the future clinical implications based on these novel insights.