bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CACNA1HM1549V Mutant Calcium Channel Causes Autonomous Aldosterone Production in HAC15 Cells and Is Inhibited by Mibefradil
Authors: Reimer Esther N. , Walenda Gudrun , Seidel Eric , Scholl Ute I.
Published: June 2016

We recently demonstrated that a recurrent gain-of-function mutation in a T-type calcium channel, CACNA1HM1549V, causes a novel Mendelian disorder featuring early-onset primary aldosteronism and hypertension. This variant was found independently in five families. CACNA1HM1549V leads to impaired channel inactivation and activation at more hyperpolarized potentials, inferred to cause increased calcium entry. We here aimed to study the effect of this variant on aldosterone production. We heterologously expressed empty vector, CACNA1HWT and CACNA1HM1549V in the aldosterone-producing adrenocortical cancer cell line H295R and its subclone HAC15. Transfection rates, expression levels, and subcellular distribution of the channel were similar between CACNA1HWT and CACNA1HM1549V. We measured aldosterone production by an ELISA and CYP11B2 (aldosterone synthase) expression by real-time PCR. In unstimulated cells, transfection of CACNA1HWT led to a 2-fold increase in aldosterone levels compared with vector-transfected cells. Expression of CACNA1HM1549V caused a 7-fold increase in aldosterone levels. Treatment with angiotensin II or increased extracellular potassium levels further stimulated aldosterone production in both CACNA1HWT- and CACNA1HM1549V-transfected cells. Similar results were obtained for CYP11B2 expression. Inhibition of CACNA1H channels with the T-type calcium channel blocker Mibefradil completely abrogated the effects of CACNA1HWT and CACNA1HM1549V on CYP11B2 expression. These results directly link CACNA1HM1549V to increased aldosterone production. They suggest that calcium channel blockers may be beneficial in the treatment of a subset of patients with primary aldosteronism. Such blockers could target CACNA1H or both CACNA1H and the L-type calcium channel CACNA1D that is also expressed in the adrenal gland and mutated in patients with primary aldosteronism.
Palliative Care in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Vanopdenbosch Ludo J. , Oliver David J. , Kass Joseph S.
Published: June 2016

Collaboration between the neurologist and palliative care team in the care of patients with severe demyelinating disease can result in improved patient care, and discussion of the complex ethical issues that arise when a patient expresses a wish to die may be rewarding for both patients and caregivers.
Symptom Management and Lifestyle Modifications in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Coyle Patricia K.
Published: June 2016

Purpose of Review:

This article reviews the rationale and approach to symptom management and lifestyle modifications in multiple sclerosis (MS).

Recent Findings:

MS symptoms are important to treat because they affect quality of life and daily activity. Appreciation of cluster symptoms (where one symptom contributes to another), changes over time, and multimodality therapeutic approaches are guiding optimized symptom management. Equally important are lifestyle modifications that enhance central nervous system reserve and function. These modifications are the foundation for a health maintenance, wellness, and vascular risk factor control program.

Symptom management and lifestyle modifications are important therapeutic targets to improve the lives of patients with MS.
Medicaid Expansion: A Tale of Two Governors
Authors: Flagg Robin
Published: June 2016

This is a study of why two seemingly similar governors made divergent decisions on expanding Medicaid under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA). Performing a case study of Governors John Kasich (OH) and Scott Walker (WI), I explore the roles played by electoral pressures, political party, governor's ideology, the state's policy heritage, stakeholder advocacy, and the economy in each governor's decision about whether to expand Medicaid. Electoral pressure was the most significant factor for both governors. I demonstrate that even Walker succumbed to state electoral pressures and expanded Medicaid, albeit in a manner unique to Wisconsin. He did this despite his emphatic national rhetoric rejecting Obamacare and expansion. Additionally, existing state political institutions drove each governor to decide in a manner unique to his state: previous Medicaid decisions in Wisconsin and direct democracy in Ohio provided additional pressures and divergent starting points. The remaining factors served less as a driving force behind the decision and more as a frame to justify the decision ex post facto. Case studies allow for a more complex view of how political pressures fit together; differences can be explained and expanded, and an enhanced understanding of political processes can be gleaned.
Mice with missense and nonsense NF1 mutations display divergent phenotypes compared to NF1 patients
Authors: Li Kairong , Turner Ashley N. , Chen Min , Brosius Stephanie N. , Schoeb Trenton R. , Messiaen Ludwine M. , Bedwell David M. , Zinn Kurt R. , Anastasaki Corina , Gutmann David H. , Korf Bruce R. , Kesterson Robert A.
Published: June 2016

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a common genetic disorder characterized by the occurrence of nerve sheath tumors and considerable clinical heterogeneity. Some translational studies have been limited by the lack of animal models assessing patient-specific mutations. In order to test therapeutic approaches that may restore function to the mutated gene or gene product, we developed mice harboring NF1 patient-specific mutations including a nonsense mutation (c.2041C>T; p.Arg681*) and a missense mutation (c.2542G>C; p.Gly848Arg). The latter are associated with the development of multiple plexiform neurofibromas along spinal nerve roots. We demonstrate that the human nonsense NF1Arg681* and missense NF1Gly848Arg mutations have different effects in the mouse on neurofibromin expression and each recapitulates unique aspects of the NF1 phenotype, depending upon the genetic context when assessed in the homozygous state or when paired with a conditional knockout allele. Whereas the missense Nf1Gly848Arg mutation fails to produce an overt phenotype in the mouse, animals homozygous for the nonsense Nf1Arg681* mutation are not viable. Mice with one Nf1Arg681*allele in combination with a conditional floxed Nf1 allele and the DhhCre transgene (Nf14F/Arg681*; DhhCre) display disorganized nonmyelinating axons and neurofibromas along the spinal column, which leads to compression of the spinal cord and paralysis. This model will be valuable for novel preclinical testing of nonsense suppression therapies using drugs to target in-frame point mutations that create premature termination codons in patients with NF1.
Ttll9
−/− mice sperm flagella show shortening of doublet 7, reduction of doublet 5 polyglutamylation and a stall in beating
Authors: Konno Alu , Ikegami Koji , Konishi Yoshiyuki , Yang Hyun-Jeong , Abe Manabu , Yamazaki Maya , Sakimura Kenji , Yao Ikuko , Shiba Kogiku , Inaba Kazuo , Setou Mitsutoshi
Published: June 2016

Nine outer doublet microtubules in axonemes of flagella and cilia are heterogeneous in structure and biochemical properties. In mammalian sperm flagella, one of the factors to generate the heterogeneity is tubulin polyglutamylation, although the importance of the heterogeneous modification is unclear. Here, we show that a tubulin polyglutamylase Ttll9 deficiency (Ttll9−/−) causes a unique set of phenotypes related to doublet heterogeneity. Ttll9−/− sperm axonemes had frequent loss of a doublet and reduced polyglutamylation. Intriguingly, the doublet loss selectively occurred at the distal region of doublet 7, and reduced polyglutamylation was observed preferentially on doublet 5. Ttll9−/− spermatozoa showed aberrant flagellar beating, characterized by frequent stalls after anti-hook bending. This abnormal motility could be attributed to the reduction of polyglutamylation on doublet 5, which probably occurred at a position involved in the switching of bending. These results indicate that mammalian Ttll9 plays essential roles in maintaining the normal structure and beating pattern of sperm flagella by establishing normal heterogeneous polyglutamylation patterns.
Active learning in the lecture theatre using 3D printed objects
Authors: Smith David P.
Published: June 2016

The ability to conceptualize 3D shapes is central to understanding biological processes. The concept that the structure of a biological molecule leads to function is a core principle of the biochemical field. Visualisation of biological molecules often involves vocal explanations or the use of two dimensional slides and video presentations. A deeper understanding of these molecules can however be obtained by the handling of objects. 3D printed biological molecules can be used as active learning tools to stimulate engagement in large group lectures. These models can be used to build upon initial core knowledge which can be delivered in either a flipped form or a more didactic manner. Within the teaching session the students are able to learn by handling, rotating and viewing the objects to gain an appreciation, for example, of an enzyme’s active site or the difference between the major and minor groove of DNA. Models and other artefacts can be handled in small groups within a lecture theatre and act as a focal point to generate conversation. Through the approach presented here core knowledge is first established and then supplemented with high level problem solving through a "Think-Pair-Share" cooperative learning strategy. The teaching delivery was adjusted based around experiential learning activities by moving the object from mental cognition and into the physical environment. This approach led to students being able to better visualise biological molecules and a positive engagement in the lecture. The use of objects in teaching allows the lecturer to create interactive sessions that both challenge and enable the student.
What’s Your Identification Strategy? Innovation in Corporate Finance Research
Authors: Bowen Donald E. , Frésard Laurent , Taillard Jérôme P.
Published: June 2016

We study the diffusion of techniques designed to identify causal relationships in corporate finance research. We estimate that the diffusion started in the mid-1990s, lagged 20 years compared to economics, and is now used in the majority of corporate finance articles. Consistent with recent theories of technology diffusion, the adoption varies across researchers based on individuals’ expected net benefits of adoption. Younger scholars, holders of PhDs in economics, and those working at top institutions adopt faster. Adoption is accelerated through networks of colleagues and alumni and is also facilitated by straddlers who cross over from economics to finance. Our findings highlight new forces that explain the diffusion of innovation and shape the norms of academic research.

This paper was accepted by Gustavo Manso, finance.
Making extended duties a reality
Authors: Metcalf Robyn
Published: June 2016

At the Dentistry Show 2016, Glenys Bridges and Alison Steadward hosted ‘How to make extended duties an asset for patient care’ – a Dental Nursing sponsored session within the Dental Nurses Forum. Robyn Metcalf reports
Risky business
Authors: Kelly Robert
Published: June 2016

Robert Kelly untangles the complexities of waste and dangerous goods management
Physicochemical Characteristics and Antioxidant Activities of Cookies with Red Raspberry (Rubus crataegifolius)
Authors: Yun Kyung Mi , Chung Ha Sook
Published: June 2016

Red raspberry (Rubus crataegifolius) is a well-known fruit with excellent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-cancer resources containing bioactive phenolic acids, terpenoids, glucosinolates, and glycosides. The aim of our study is to investigate the effect of red raspberry cookies on quality characteristics and antioxidant activities. Cookies were prepared adding different concentrations of red raspberry powder (0, 5, 10, 20, 30, and 50% to the flour weight). The bulk density, pH, spread ratio, loss rate, leavening rate, color, hardness of dough, and cookies were investigated. As a result, the pH of the dough, leavening and loss rate, and L- and b-value of the cookies are significantly decreased with increasing levels of red raspberry powder (p <0.05). On the other hand, spread ratio, a-value, and brix of the cookies are significantly increased with increasing levels of red raspberry powder (p <0.05). Total phenol compounds and FRAP assay are significantly increased with increasing levels of red raspberry powder (p <0.05). Based on the overall observation, red raspberry cookies with 10-20% Rubus crataegifolius powder is recommended to take advantage of its functional properties with consumer acceptability.
Laser alloying of bearing steel with boron and self-lubricating addition
Authors: Kotkowiak Mateusz , Piasecki Adam , Kulka Michał
Published: June 2016

100CrMnSi6-4 bearing steel has been widely used for many applications, e.g. rolling bearings which work in difficult operating conditions. Therefore, this steel has to be characterized by special properties such as high wear resistance and high hardness. In this study laser-boriding was applied to improve these properties. Laser alloying was conducted as the two step process with two different types of alloying material: amorphous boron only and amorphous boron with addition of calcium fluoride CaF2. At first, the surface was coated with paste including alloying material. Second step of the process consisted in laser re-melting. The surface of sample, coated with the paste, was irradiated by the laser beam. In this study, TRUMPF TLF 2600 Turbo CO2 laser was used. The microstructure, microhardness and wear resistance of both laser-borided layer and laser-borided layer with the addition of calcium fluoride were investigated. The layer, alloyed with boron and CaF2, was characterized by higher wear resistance than the layer after laser boriding only.
Microstructure, phase composition and corrosion resistance of Ni2O3 coatings produced using laser alloying method
Authors: Bartkowska Aneta , Przestacki Damian , Chwalczuk Tadeusz
Published: June 2016

The paper presents the studies' results of microstructure, microhardness, cohesion, phase composition and the corrosion resistance analysis of C45 steel after laser alloying with nickel oxide (Ni2O3). The aim of the laser alloying was to obtain the surface layer with new properties through covering C45 steel by precoat containing modifying compound, and then remelting this precoat using laser beam. As a result of this process the surface layer consisting of remelted zone and heat affected zone was obtained. In the remelted zone an increased amount of modifying elements was observed. It was also found that the surface layer formed during the laser alloying with Ni2O3 was characterized by good corrosion resistance. This property has changed depending on the thickness of the applied precoat. It was observed that the thickness increase of nickel oxides precoat improves corrosion resistance of produced coatings.
Simulationsgestützte Optimierung von Gleitzustandsreglern für hydraulische Wegeventile
Authors: Krimpmann Christoph , Makarow Artemi , Bertram Torsten , Glowatzky Ingo , Schoppel Georg , Lausch Horst
Published: June 2016

Dieser Beitrag betrachtet den Entwurf von Gleitzustandsreglern für hydraulische Wegeventile. Ausgehend von der Motivation,
die Komplexität der gegenwärtig verwendeten Regler zu reduzieren, wird ein Ansatz basierend auf der Gleitzustandsregelung
zweiter Ordnung diskutiert. Typischerweise erfolgt die Parametrisierung der Regler im Kontext hydraulischer Systeme durch
Evolutionäre Optimierungen, die eine Vielzahl von zeitaufwändigen Experimenten am realen System durchführen. Dieser
Beitrag verfolgt ein simulationsgestütztes Vorgehen. Für das hydraulische Wegeventil wird ein physikalisch motiviertes
Streckenmodell vorgestellt, anhand dessen in der Simulation die Regler parametrisiert werden. Der Vergleich zwischen den
simulierten und real gemessenen Sprungantworten zeigt eine hohe Übereinstimmung und ein Verlust an Regelgüte ist beim
Übergang von der Simulation zum realen System nicht erkennbar. Im Vergleich zu anderen Verfahren kann somit gezeigt
werden, dass durch Verwendung von Simulationsmodellen für Wegeventile die Inbetriebnahmezeiten deutlich reduziert werden
können.
Ein neuer Ansatz zur Verfügbarkeitsanalyse von Sicherheitseinrichtungen
Authors: Leifeld Thomas , Schlegel Jan , Zhang Ping
Published: June 2016

Die Erstellung des Markovmodells einer komplexen Sicherheitseinrichtung unter Berücksichtigung von
Instandhaltungsmaßnahmen zu festgelegten Zeitpunkten ist komplex und schränkt den möglichen Detailierungsgrad
ein. Probabilistische Boolesche Netzwerke (PBN) werden als kompakte lineare Darstellung für stochastische Automaten mit
deterministischen Übergängen eingeführt. Für diese wird dann eine neue Methode entwickelt, mit welcher das Modell eines
komplexen Systems mit einfachen Eingaben automatisch erstellt werden kann.
On the Rejectability of the Subjective Expected Utility Theory
Authors: Grabiszewski Konrad
Published: June 2016

State space, a key element of the Subjective Expected Utility (SEU) theory, is not observable. This implies that, in order to test the SEU theory, it is necessary to assume some state space. Consequently, if the SEU theory is rejected, then it is appropriate to conduct a robustness check; that is, to search for a different state space and a probability over that state space which together do not lead to the rejection of the SEU theory. To find such state space and probability means to SEU-rationalize the agent’s behavior. I show how to conduct the process of SEU-rationalization and determine when an SEU-rationalization is possible.
Two rare halophyte species: Aster tripolium L. and Plantago maritima L. on the Baltic coast in Poland – their resources, distribution and implications for conservation management
Authors: Lazarus Magdalena , Wszałek-Rożek Katarzyna
Published: June 2016

The paper presents the results of geobotanical studies on the distribution and resources of Aster tripolium L. and Plantago maritima L, two rare halophytes in Poland. The research was conducted in northern Poland, along the Baltic coast in 2013. The present distribution of the two species was compared with historical data and general trends of and threats to these two species were examined. In total, 33 sites of A. tripolium and 18 of P. maritima were found in the research area. The resources of both species have been perceptibly depleting during last 150 years, which is mostly due to human agencies (e.g. habitat devastation caused by growing urban areas and the change in management and/or habitat condition). In order to preserve both species, it may be necessary to start an ex situ conservation program.
Evaluation of Control Strategies in Activated Sludge Process for Biological Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Vivekanandan B. , Seshagiri Rao A.
Published: June 2016

In this paper, benchmark simulation model no.1 (BSM1) of an activated sludge process is used to evaluate various control strategies. Control configurations such as feedback control and feed-forward plus feedback (FF-FB) control are applied and compared with respect to effluent discharge requirements under specified constraints and operating costs. Feed-forward control is incorporated in the PI control configuration for preventing the influent loading disturbance affecting the process. No case studies of BSM1 model have been reported in the literature for the Indian wastewater. In this work, the dynamic simulation of an activated sludge process is performed using the data collected from the sewage treatment plant, located in India. The influent load data are collected during the dry weather period. The influent fractionation is carried out using the activated sludge model no.1 (ASM1). The results of the dynamic simulation indicate that FF-FB control of the activated sludge process is more effective than feedback control in meeting the constraints, especially effluent ammonia concentration which is considered as very important. From the comparison of performance evaluation criteria, it is observed that FF-FB control has achieved almost the same operating costs as with feedback control.
Nano-mupirocin: enabling the parenteral activity of mupirocin
Authors: Cern Ahuva , Michael-Gayego Ayelet , Bavli Yaelle , Koren Erez , Goldblum Amiram , Moses Allon E. , Xiong Yan Q. , Barenholz Yechezkel
Published: June 2016

Mupirocin is an antibiotic having a unique mode of action, not shared by any other therapeutically available antibiotic. However, due to its rapid elimination following injection and high protein binding, current therapeutic use is limited to topical administration. Computational methods have identified mupirocin as a good candidate for delivery via long-circulating nano-liposomes. Formulating mupirocin in such liposomes to form Nano-mupirocin protects the drug in the circulation, enabling therapeutic efficacy. This was demonstrated using two different animal models that served as a proof of concept: the mice necrotizing fasciitis and rabbit endocarditis models. In both animal models, mupirocin administered intravenously (IV) lacked therapeutic efficacy, while the Nano-mupirocin administered IV was efficacious. In both mice and rabbits the pharmacokinetic (PK) profile following IV injection of Nano-mupirocin showed significantly greater AUC and elimination half-life of Nano-mupirocin compared to the free drug. In addition, in mice we also demonstrated significant drug distribution into the disease site. These PK profiles may explain Nano-mupirocin’s superior therapeutic efficacy. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating that systemic activity of mupirocin is feasible. Therefore, Nano-mupirocin can be considered a novel and unique parenteral antibiotic candidate drug.
Projected effects of climate change on the carbon stocks of European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) forests in Zala County, Hungary
Authors: Somogyi Zoltán
Published: June 2016

Recent studies suggest that climate change will lead to the local extinction of many tree species from large areas during this century, affecting the functioning and ecosystem services of many forests. This study reports on projected carbon losses due to the assumed local climate change-driven extinction of European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) from Zala County, South-Western Hungary, where the species grows at the xeric limit of its distribution. The losses were calculated as a difference between carbon stocks in climate change scenarios assuming an exponentially increasing forest decline over time, and those in a baseline scenario assuming no climate change. In the climate change scenarios, three different sets of forest management adaptation measures were studied: (1) only harvesting damaged stands, (2) additionally salvaging dead trees that died due to climate change, and (3) replacing, at an increasing rate over time, beech with sessile oak (Quercus petraea Matt. Lieb.) after final harvest. Projections were made using the open access carbon accounting model CASMOFOR based on modeling or assuming effects of climate change on mortality, tree growth, root-to-shoot ratio and decomposition rates. Results demonstrate that, if beech disappears from the region as projected by the end of the century, over 80% of above-ground biomass carbon, and over 60% of the carbon stocks of all pools (excluding soils) of the forests will be lost by 2100. Such emission rates on large areas may have a discernible positive feedback on climate change, and can only partially be offset by the forest management adaptation measures.
Test of airborne laser scanning ability to refine and streamline growing stock estimations by yield tables in different stand structures
Authors: Kulla Ladislav , Sačkov Ivan , Juriš Miroslav
Published: June 2016

Even if stand inventories based on growth tables have been widely discussed over the last years, this method of forest mensuration is still widely applied due to favourable ratio between costs and achievable precision of stand growing stock estimation. The aim of the study was to verify the potential of airborne laser scanning data (ALS) for direct estimation of mean stand height and mean stand density (stocking) as fundamental inputs for forest mensuration based on yield tables. The material from two reference plots with substantially different stand structure was processed by REFLEX software, and confronted with the results of the precise terrestrial inventory. The number of detected tree tops decreased from 100% in the case of super-dominant trees to 30% and 5% in the case of supressed trees at the homogeneous and heterogeneous plot, respectively. The correlation of ALS heights with terrestrially measured heights was R = 0.88 at the homogenous plot, and R = 0.77 at the heterogeneous plot. The tendency to underestimate dominant and to overestimate suppressed trees was revealed at both plots, but was more pronounced at the heterogeneous one. Nevertheless we justified that the mean ALS height calculated from the heights of the detected trees represented the biometric mean stand height linked to the stem with the mean basal area quite well. The stocking estimated by REFLEX software according to delineated crowns´ area was also closer to the real value of stocking than the one obtained by the routine mensuration procedure. The results indicate promising potential of the ALS data processed by REFLEX software to rationalise forest mensuration based on yield tables in even-aged forest structures.
2,5-Disubstituted 1,3,4-oxadiazole derivatives of chromeno[4,3-b]pyridine: synthesis and study of antimicrobial potency
Authors: Jadhav Ghanshyam R. , Deshmukh Dattatray G. , Medhane Vijay J. , Gaikwad Vishwas B. , Bholay Avinash D.
Published: June 2016

A convenient synthesis of 1,3,4-oxadiazole containing derivatives of chromeno[4,3-b]pyridine (6a–e, 8a–e and 9a–e) starting from 4-hydroxycoumarin is presented. The synthesized compounds were screened for in vitro antimicrobial activity against representative bacterial and fungal species. The MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration) of the synthesized compounds ranges between 5 and 15 μg/mL, which is comparable with MIC of standard drugs. Compounds 6c, 8c–e, 9c and 9e have the highest potency for certain bacteria and fungi.
Individual precocity, temporal persistence, and task-specialization of hygienic bees from selected colonies of Apis mellifera
Authors: Scannapieco Alejandra C. , Lanzavecchia Silvia B. , Parreño María A. , Liendo María C. , Cladera Jorge L. , Spivak Marla , Palacio María A.
Published: June 2016

Hygienic behaviour is a complex trait that gives Apis mellifera L. resistance against brood diseases. Variability in the expression of hygienic behaviour is evidenced at the colony-level and is explained by the proportion and propensity of individual worker bees that engage in hygienic activities. We investigated the temporal performance and the dynamics of task-specialisation of individual bees over time, both in selected hygienic (H) and non-hygienic (NH) colonies. Then we evaluated the impact of these behavioural aspects on the colony performance. Bees that perform hygienic behaviour (hygienic bees) in our H colonies were more persistent in the hygienic activities throughout the days of the investigation. Such bees were more efficient in the removal of pin-killed brood than hygienic bees in the NH colonies. Hygienic bees in the H colonies were also specialist in the sub-tasks involved in the detection of odour stimulus from dead brood and continued to perform these activities throughout the days of the investigation (temporal persistence). Age-distribution of hygienic bees in the H colonies was asymmetrical, with a larger proportion of these bees performing hygienic activities early in life. At a colony-level, H showed higher efficiency compared to the NH colonies. The present results highlight the fact that individual behaviour may influence the collective dynamics of the hygienic behaviour in honeybee colonies. The results also note that the selection for highly hygienic colonies would result in changes in individual bees that improve the performance of the behaviour at the colony level. The relevance of task-partitioning and age-specialisation of hygienic bees on social immunity is discussed.
First identification of nanoparticles on thorax, abdomen and wings of the worker bee Apis dorsata Fabricius
Authors: Bhattacharyya Atanu , Viraktamath Shashidhar , Hatjina Fani , Bhattacharyya Santanu , Rajankar Bhaktibhavana , Patra Amitava
Published: June 2016

The presence of nanoparticles on the body of the honeybee Apis dorsata Fabricius, was investigated for the first time to better understand the bee’s behaviour. These have been observed by using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and confirmed by Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). Our study clearly denotes that the Indian rock honey bee Apis dorsata possess calcium silicate and calcium phosphate nanoparticles on its body surface of 5-50 nm in diameter. In particular, the nanoparticles on the abdomen and thorax of A. dorsata have an average diameter of about 10 nanometers and they are smaller than those found on wings of the same bees which are about 20 nanometers. The nanoparticles found are different of the ones previously observed on honey bees or other insects. The origin and role of these natural nanoparticles on the body of the Indian rock bee need to be to be further investigated; more research in the subject might raise important aspects in relation to the conservation of these unique pollinators.
Phylogenetic analysis of the honeybee Sacbrood virus
Authors: Li You , Zeng Zhi Jiang , Wang Zi Long
Published: June 2016

Sacbrood virus (SBV) is one of the most common and harmful viruses to honeybees. It causes failure to pupate and death during larval stage, in adult bees it has an influence on their behavior and even shortens their life-span. In this study, we analyzed the phylogenetic relationships among the SBV isolates from all around the world, with from both Apis cerana and Apis mellifera. Phylogenetic trees were constructed based on three types of nucleotide sequences: complete genome sequence, VP1 gene and SB1-2 fragment of SBV. Moreover, genome recombination analysis was performed to assess the effect of genome recombination on the evolutionary relationship of some SBV isolates. The phylogenetic trees showed that although all the SBV isolates form two major groups, these two groups were not formed strictly according to their host specificity or geographical origin. These results indicate that both host specificity and geographic origin decide the genetic diversity of SBV strains.
The antioxidant defense system of Varroa destructor mites facilitates the infestation of Apis mellifera
Authors: Dmochowska-Ślęzak Kamila , Dmitryjuk Małgorzata , Zaobidna Ewa , Żółtowska Krystyna
Published: June 2016

Varroa destructor is a parasitic mite of the Western honey bee. The activity of five antioxidant enzymes of V. destructor were analysed. Glutathione content and total antioxidant status was also evaluated. Our results suggest that antioxidant enzymes constitute the main line of defense against ROS in V. destructor, whereas low-molecular-weight antioxidants play a limited role in the antioxidant system of mites.
Prognostic Value of Epicardial Fat Thickness as a Biomarker of Increased Inflammatory. Status in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Opincariu Diana , Mester András , Dobra Mihaela , Rat Nora , Hodas Roxana , Morariu Mirabela
Published: June 2016

Introduction: The prognostic value of epicardial fat thickness (EFT) and inflammatory biomarkers such as hs-CRP have not been fully investigated in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). The study aim was to assess the correlation between the EFT, the persistence of elevated circulating levels of hs-CRP at 7 ± 2 days after an AMI and the amplitude of the left ventricular (LV) remodeling, in patients with type 2 DM. Methods: The study included 98 patients (45 with type 2 DM and 43 with no DM): Group 1 included 22 low-to-intermediate risk patients (hsCRP <3 mg/l) and Group 2 had 23 high-risk, (hsCRP >3 mg/l) patients. EFT, LV function and remodeling were assessed at baseline and at six months after AMI in both groups. Results: In the diabetic population, the EFT was significantly higher in patients who developed ventricular remodeling as compared with those who did not (8.02 ± 1.80 mm vs. 6.65 ± 2.17 mm, p = 0.02) and significantly correlated with the circulating levels of hs-CRP (r = 0.6251, p <0.0001). The levels of circulating hs-CRP, at baseline, significantly correlated with the RI at six months (r = 0.39, p <0.001). Also, in the diabetic population, the epicardial fat thickness was significantly higher in patients who developed ventricular remodeling as compared with those who did not (8.02 ± 1.80 mm vs. 6.65 ± 2.17 mm, p = 0.02). The epicardial adipose tissue thickness significantly correlated with the circulating levels of hs-CRP (r = 0.6251, p <0.0001), while in the non-diabetic population, EFT was not significantly higher in patients who developed ventricular remodeling as compared with those who did not (71.38 ± 9.09 vs. 67.4 ± 10.17, p = 0.23). Multivariate analysis identified the hs-CRP values (OR: 4.09, p = 0.03) and the EFT (OR: 6.11, p = 0.01) as significant independent predictors for LV remodeling in diabetic population. Conclusions: A larger EFT is associated with a more severe remodeling and impairment of ventricular function in patients with type 2 DM and AMI.
Götterdämmerung over total least squares
Authors: Malissiovas G. , Neitzel F. , Petrovic S.
Published: June 2016

The traditional way of solving non-linear least
squares (LS) problems in Geodesy includes a linearization
of the functional model and iterative solution of a nonlinear
equation system. Direct solutions for a class of nonlinear
adjustment problems have been presented by the
mathematical community since the 1980s, based on total
least squares (TLS) algorithms and involving the use of singular
value decomposition (SVD). However, direct LS solutions
for this class of problems have been developed in
the past also by geodesists. In this contributionwe attempt
to establish a systematic approach for direct solutions of
non-linear LS problems from a "geodetic" point of view.
Therefore, four non-linear adjustment problems are investigated:
the fit of a straight line to given points in 2D and in
3D, the fit of a plane in 3D and the 2D symmetric similarity
transformation of coordinates. For all these problems a direct
LS solution is derived using the same methodology by
transforming the problem to the solution of a quadratic or
cubic algebraic equation. Furthermore, by applying TLS all
these four problems can be transformed to solving the respective
characteristic eigenvalue equations. It is demonstrated
that the algebraic equations obtained in this way
are identical with those resulting from the LS approach. As
a by-product of this research two novel approaches are presented
for the TLS solutions of fitting a straight line to 3D
and the 2D similarity transformation of coordinates. The
derived direct solutions of the four considered problems
are illustrated on examples from the literature and also numerically
compared to published iterative solutions.
Modeling of the Trajectory of the Level Fluctuations in Lake Naroch
Authors: Kirvel Ivan , Volchak Alexander , Parfomuk Sergey
Published: June 2016

As a result of the conducted investigations of the level fluctuations in lake naroch the initial data are divided into 3 components: a polynomial regression that makes it possible to find out an independent on time law of trajectory, a periodic component of sinusoidal type and a residual sequence of independent random quantities. Modeling of the trajectory fluctuations is based on the deterministic part, consisting of the regression of the 8th order and periodic component, and also the random part, consisting of independent equally distributed quantities. Using this model it can be modeled the trajectory of the level fluctuations in lake naroch. The modeled trajectory by 200 years long demonstrated the probability of exceeding of maximum annual level, equal 1 per cent.
Assessment of Bank Erosion, Accretion and Channel Shifting Using Remote Sensing and GIS: Case Study – Lower Course of the Bosna River
Authors: Lovric Novica , Tosic Radislav
Published: June 2016

River bank erosion, accretion and lateral channel migration are the most important geomorphological processes, which attract a great deal of attention from river engineering scientist over the last century. in the presented study, we assessed how the river’s shape and position have changed during 1958-2013 period using remote sensing and GIS. We have identified that the total area of bank erosion during given period equalled 8.3430 km2, of which 3.2593 km2 were on the left bank and 5.0837 km2 on the right bank. The total area of bank accretion from 1958 to 2013 equalled 10.7074 km2, of which 5.4115 km2 was on the left bank and 5.2958 km2 on the right bank. The Bosna riverbed average movement in the period 1958-2013 was established in the amount of 132.4 m. During this period, the average lateral channel migration was 2.5 m per year. The data presented here are significant for practical issues such as predicting channel migration rates for engineering and planning purposes, soil and water management.
The Effects of Subchronic Methionine Overload Administered Alone or Simultaneously with L-cysteine or N-acetyl-L-cysteine on Body Weight, Homocysteine Levels and Biochemical Parameters in the Blood of Male Wistar Rats
Authors: Micovic Zarko , Stamenkovic Aleksandra , Nikolic Tamara , Stojanovic Marija , Scepanovic Ljiljana , Hadzibegovic Adi , Obrenovic Radmila , Vujosevic Ivana , Stankovic Sanja , Djuric Marko , Jakovljevic Biljana , Djuric Dragan
Published: June 2016

Hyperhomocysteinemia (HHC), both basal and after methionine load, may occur due to genetic disorders or deficiencies of nutrients that affect the remethylation or trans-sulphuration pathways during methionine metabolism. HHC is involved in the pathogenesis of many illnesses as a result of its prooxidative effect and its impairment of antioxidative protection. The aim was to examine the effects of subchronic methionine overload on the body weight and standard biochemical parameters in rat serum and to examine whether simultaneous subchronic intraperotoneal administration of methionine alone or together with L-cysteine or N-acetyl-cysteine resulted in a change in the body weight and biochemical parameters in the rat serum. The research was conducted during a three-week period (male Wistar albino rats, n=36, body weight of approximately 160 g, age of 15-20 days), and the animals were divided into a control group and three experimental groups of 8-10 animals each: a) control group (0.9% sodium chloride 0.1-0.2 ml/day); b) methionine (0.8 mmol/kg/bw/day) (MET group); c) methionine (0.8 mmol/kg/bw/day) + L-cysteine (7 mg/kg/bw/day) (L-cys+MET group); and d) methionine (0.8 mmol/kg/bw/day) + N-acetyl-L-cysteine (50 mg/kg/bw/day) (NAC+MET group). In addition to the body weight monitoring, the levels of total homocysteine and the standard biochemical parameters in blood samples (plasma or serum) were determined. The results indicated that monitoring the homocysteine levels and standard biochemical parameters in blood could be used for analysis and could provide an excellent guideline for distinguishing between toxic and non-toxic doses of methionine intake, which may be meaningful for clinical applications.
Pneumothorax Related to Mechanical Ventilation: Silent Enemy
Authors: Mojsic Branislav , Mandras Ana , Sujica Maja , Vasiljevic Sladjana
Published: June 2016

Pneumothorax is well known and described complication in intensive care unit patients (ICU). Incidence of this complication is higher in patients with underlying pathology. As it can be occult, it is of the most importance to think of it in patients on mechanical ventilation. In this case report we well present ventilator-related pneumothorax in infant: clinical presentation, diagnosis and management
The Prevalence of Alcohol Consumption by Adolescents in Serbia and Its Correlation with Sociodemographic Factors – A National Survey
Authors: Radovanovic Snezana , Vasiljevic Dragan , Kocic Sanja , Radevic Svetlana , Milosavljević Mirjana , Mihailovic Nataša
Published: June 2016

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of alcohol consumption among adolescents in Serbia and its association with sociodemographic characteristics. This paper is based on data from a national health survey of the population of Serbia in 2013 (no data for Kosovo and Metohija), conducted by the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Serbia. For the purposes of this study, data on households and individuals over 15 years of age were used; thus, the final sample for analysis included 858 patients (aged 15 to 19 years). Researchers used demographic characteristics (age, gender, type of home, region) and socio-economic characteristics (income per household member, the index of well-being, self-assessment of health, cigarette smoking, tendency towards psychological and physical violence) as the independent variables. A χ2 test was applied to test the differences in the frequencies of categorical variables. The correlations between alcohol consumption, as the dependent variable, and the independent variables (mentioned above) were tested by logistic regression. All results less than or equal to 5% probability (p ≤ 0.05) were considered statistically significant. The prevalence of alcohol consumption among adolescents in Serbia is 51.6%. Alcohol consumption is significantly associated with sex, type of home and the index of well-being (p < 0.05). The prevalence of alcohol consumption is higher in males (57.1%), in adolescents who come from urban areas (59.3%) and in adolescents who, according to the index of well-being, belong to the wealthiest financial category (23.9%).
Plants from The Genus Daphne: A Review of its Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, Biological and Pharmacological Activity
Authors: Sovrlić Miroslav M. , Manojlović Nedeljko T.
Published: June 2016

Plants have an important role in maintaining people’s health and improving the quality of human life. They are an important component of people’s diet, but they are also used in other spheres of human life as a therapeutic resources, ingredients of cosmetic products, paints and others. The Daphne genus belongs to family Thymeleaceae which includes 44 families with approximately 500 herbal species. The plant species of the genus Daphne are used in the traditional medicine in China and tropical part of Africa for the treatment of various conditions. Previous studies showed significant biological potential of these species as a source of pharmacologically active compounds. This indicates that this genus possess a broad spectrum of biological activity including antimicrobial, antioxidant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, anti-ulcerogenic, abortive, hypocholesterolemic and hemostatic effects. Additionally, Daphne plants are the source of valuable bioactive phytochemicals such as coumarins, flavonoids, lignans, steroids and different classes of terpenes. Different parts of the Daphne plants contain specific bioactive metabolites and can represent a source of new, natural, pharmacologically active compounds, which may potentially be used in pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries.
Comparison of Biometric Values and Intraocular Lens Power Calculations Obtained by Ultrasound and Optical Biometry
Authors: Cvetkovic Aleksandra , Sreckovic Suncica , Petrovic Marko
Published: June 2016

This study sought to compare the biometric values and intraocular lens (IOL) power obtained by standard ultrasound and optical biometry.

We examined 29 eyes in preparation for cataract surgery. None of the patients had refractive surgery or corneal anomaly. In all patients, the horizontal and vertical refractive power of the cornea was determined using a keratometer (Bausch&Lomb). The axial length of the eye was determined via A-scan ultrasound (BVI-compact-V-plus) using Hollady’s formula. The IOL power and complete biometric measurements were obtained via an IOL Master-500-Zeiss using the Hollady-2 formula. All obtained values were compared and analysed using the statistical program SPSS 20.

The average age of treated patients was 71.21±1.68 years. In 16 patients with dense cataracts (55.17%), it was not possible to determine the IOL power by optical biometry. Optical biometry obtained significantly increased axial length values of 24.04±0.29 mm compared with those obtained with ultrasound biometry (23.89±0.28 mm, p=0.003). The mean refractive cornea power values of the horizontal meridian measured using a keratometer (42.50±0.47 D) and an IOL Master (42.69±0.49 D) were not statistically different (p=0.187). The mean values of the refractive cornea power of the vertical meridian obtained using a keratometer (42.62±0.48D) and an IOL Master (43.36±0.51 D) exhibited a statistically significant difference (p=0.000). The keratometer obtained statistically significant lower mean values of corneal refractive power (42.73±0.32 D) compared with those obtained with optical biometry (43.22±0.35 D, p=0.000). Ultrasound biometry obtained significantly increased the mean values of IOL power (20.19±0.48D) compared with those obtained with optical biometry (19.71±0.48 D, p=0.018).

The large number of patients who receive an operation for dense cataracts indicate the need for representation of both biometric methods in our clinical practice.
RAB2A controls MT1‐MMP endocytic and E‐cadherin polarized Golgi trafficking to promote invasive breast cancer programs
Authors: Kajiho Hiroaki , Kajiho Yuko , Frittoli Emanuela , Confalonieri Stefano , Bertalot Giovanni , Viale Giuseppe , Di Fiore Pier Paolo , Oldani Amanda , Garre Massimiliano , Beznoussenko Galina V , Palamidessi Andrea , Vecchi Manuela , Chavrier Philippe , Perez Frank , Scita Giorgio
Published: June 2016

The mechanisms of tumor cell dissemination and the contribution of membrane trafficking in this process are poorly understood. Through a functional siRNA screening of human RAB GTPases, we found that RAB2A, a protein essential for ER‐to‐Golgi transport, is critical in promoting proteolytic activity and 3D invasiveness of breast cancer (BC) cell lines. Remarkably, RAB2A is amplified and elevated in human BC and is a powerful and independent predictor of disease recurrence in BC patients. Mechanistically, RAB2A acts at two independent trafficking steps. Firstly, by interacting with VPS39, a key component of the late endosomal HOPS complex, it controls post‐endocytic trafficking of membrane‐bound MT1‐MMP, an essential metalloprotease for matrix remodeling and invasion. Secondly, it further regulates Golgi transport of E‐cadherin, ultimately controlling junctional stability, cell compaction, and tumor invasiveness. Thus, RAB2A is a novel trafficking determinant essential for regulation of a mesenchymal invasive program of BC dissemination.