229 research outputs found
On the optical counterparts of radio transients and variables
No full textWe investigate the relation between the radio (Fr) and optical (Fo) flux densities of a variety of classes of radio transients and variables, with the aim of analysing whether this information can be used, in the future, to classify such events. Using flux density values between 1 and 10 GHz and the optical bands V and R, we build a sample with a total of 12 441 Fr and Fo measurements. The sample contains both Galactic objects, such as stellar sources and X-ray binaries, and extragalactic objects, such as gamma-ray bursts and quasars. By directly comparing the two parameters, it is already possible to distinguish between the Galactic and extragalactic populations. Although individual classes are harder to separate from the Fr - Fo parameter space to a high accuracy, and can only provide approximations, the basic approach provides an already useful foundation to develop a more accurate classification technique. In addition, we illustrate how example objects from different classes move in the parameter space as they evolve over time, offering a feature that could be used to reduce the confusion between classes. A small, blind test of the classification performance is also undertaken using a catalogue of VLA FIRST transient and variable sources, to demonstrate the advantages and current limitations of the approach.With more multiwavelength data becoming available in the future,we discuss other classification techniques which the Fr -Fo method could be combined with and potentially become an important part of an automatic radio transient classification system.</p
Impaired neural development in a zebrafish model for lowe syndrome
No full textLowe syndrome, which is characterized by defects in the central nervous system, eyes and kidneys, is caused by mutation of the phosphoinositide 5-phosphatase OCRL1. The mechanisms by which loss of OCRL1 leads to the phenotypic manifestations of Lowe syndrome are currently unclear, in part, owing to the lack of an animal model that recapitulates the disease phenotype. Here, we describe a zebrafish model for Lowe syndrome using stable and transient suppression of OCRL1 expression. Deficiency of OCRL1, which is enriched in the brain, leads to neurological defects similar to those reported in Lowe syndrome patients, namely increased susceptibility to heat-induced seizures and cystic brain lesions. In OCRL1-deficient embryos, Akt signalling is reduced and there is both increased apoptosis and reduced proliferation, most strikingly in the neural tissue. Rescue experiments indicate that catalytic activity and binding to the vesicle coat protein clathrin are essential for OCRL1 function in these processes. Our results indicate a novel role for OCRL1 in neural development, and support a model whereby dysregulation of phosphoinositide metabolism and clathrin-mediated membrane traffic leads to the neurological symptoms of Lowe syndrome. © The Author 2011. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved
Association between specific adipose tissue CD4+ T-cell populations and insulin resistance in obese individuals
No full textBACKGROUND & AIMS: An increased number of macrophages in adipose tissue is associated with insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction in obese people. However, little is known about other immune cells in adipose tissue from obese people, and whether they contribute to insulin resistance. We investigated the characteristics of T cells in adipose tissue from metabolically abnormal insulin-resistant obese (MAO) subjects, metabolically normal insulin-sensitive obese (MNO) subjects, and lean subjects. Insulin sensitivity was determined by using the hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp procedure. METHODS: We assessed plasma cytokine concentrations and subcutaneous adipose tissue CD4(+) T-cell populations in 9 lean, 12 MNO, and 13 MAO subjects. Skeletal muscle and liver samples were collected from 19 additional obese patients undergoing bariatric surgery to determine the presence of selected cytokine receptors. RESULTS: Adipose tissue from MAO subjects had 3- to 10-fold increases in numbers of CD4(+) T cells that produce interleukin (IL)-22 and IL-17 (a T-helper [Th] 17 and Th22 phenotype) compared with MNO and lean subjects. MAO subjects also had increased plasma concentrations of IL-22 and IL-6. Receptors for IL-17 and IL-22 were expressed in human liver and skeletal muscle samples. IL-17 and IL-22 inhibited uptake of glucose in skeletal muscle isolated from rats and reduced insulin sensitivity in cultured human hepatocytes. CONCLUSIONS: Adipose tissue from MAO individuals contains increased numbers of Th17 and Th22 cells, which produce cytokines that cause metabolic dysfunction in liver and muscle in vitro. Additional studies are needed to determine whether these alterations in adipose tissue T cells contribute to the pathogenesis of insulin resistance in obese people
Rosette morphology and winterhardiness or seed yield of double low strains of winter oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.)
No full text
Correlation between vernalisation requirements and winter-hardiness of double zero winter oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) lines
No full textCapture-based targated sequencing using a T cell control in myeloid malignancies and idiopathic cytopenias
No full textESPEN practical short micronutrient guideline.
No full textBackground
Trace elements and vitamins, named together micronutrients (MNs), are essential for human metabolism. The importance of MNs in common pathologies is recognized by recent research, with deficiencies significantly impacting the outcome.
Objective
This short version of the guideline aims to provide practical recommendations for clinical practice.
Methods
An extensive search of the literature was conducted in the databases Medline, PubMed, Cochrane, Google Scholar, and CINAHL for the initial guideline. The search focused on physiological data, historical evidence (for papers published before PubMed release in 1996), and observational and/or randomized trials. For each MN, the main functions, optimal analytical methods, impact of inflammation, potential toxicity, and provision during enteral or parenteral nutrition were addressed. The SOP wording was applied for strength of recommendations.
Results
The limited number of interventional trials prevented meta-analysis and led to a low level of evidence for most recommendations. The recommendations underwent a consensus process, which resulted in a percentage of agreement (%): strong consensus required of >90 % of votes. Altogether the guideline proposes 3 general recommendations and specific recommendations for the 26 MNs. Monitoring and management strategies are proposed.
Conclusion
This short version of the MN guideline should facilitate handling of the MNs in at-risk diseases, whilst offering practical advice on MN provision and monitoring during nutritional support.Depto. de MedicinaFac. de MedicinaTRUEpu
The dish of Paraskeva/Piatnica : in search of the pluvial symbol of the slavic goddess of rain
No full textOrthodox Saint Paraskevia/Piatnitza (Pietka), whose name can be translated as “Friday” - like many other Christian saints in different parts of the world, is a syncretic figure. Along with other saints whose names are derived from weekdays (Sunday, Wednesday), and with Mary the Mother of God, etc. Paraskevia replaced Mokosh (Mokoš), who originally was probably pan-Slavic deity venerated among the southern and eastern Slavs. Possibly, it is her image that ornaments traditional towels from northern Russia. Particularly in some 19th Century embroideries associated with her image, she is portrayed holding most likely a water (perhaps, symbolic of rain) dish or its emblem. That alleged water dish of Paraskevia/Piatnitza was used to reconstruct the vessel of Mokosh in the new image reconstruction of the latter. The proven pluvial (moistness) aspect of the reconstructed image of Mokosh is the most important feature of this only female deity in the Vladimir pantheon. With this fact a new area for research is opening, which earlier was regarded as a possibility only. Following the new developments associated with the theory of Great Mother Goddess, the author of this article presents her own new findings that might be useful for the study of the Slavic pantheon, and the goddess Mokosh, in particular
- …
