bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Forty Five Years Female Patient with Sclerosteosis
Authors: Ahmed Shamim , Kader Md Abdul , Ahmed Quazi Mamtaz Uddin , Shahin Abu , Azad Md Abul Kalam , Banik Jayanta , Mojumdar Shoayb Momen , Rahman Mohammad Ferdous Ur , Ara Rowsan , Haq Syed Atiqul
Published: July 2010

Sclerosteosis is a rare autosomal recessive disorder, characterized by progressive, generalized bony overgrowth of thecalvarium and mandible with cranial nerve entrapment and raised intracranial pressure, and abnormalities of thedigits. Due to narrowing of the foramina of the cranial nerves, facial nerve palsy, hearing loss and atrophy of the opticnerves can occur. It is clinically and radiologically very similar to van Buchem disease, both of which shows generalizedhyperostosis and sclerosis leading to a markedly thickened and sclerotic skull, with mandible, ribs, clavicles and alsolong bones. Van Buchem disease is differentiated from sclerosteosis by the absence of hand malformations and alarge stature. Here we describe a case of a 45 years-old-female presented with progressive enlargement of right sideof mandible, continuous pain in the right side of the face, right sided lower motor type of facial palsy, bilateral sensoryneural type of hearing loss along with polydactyly and syndactyly. The final diagnosis of sclerosteosis was made byclinical features and radiological findings and exclusion of other causes of hyperosteosis. The particular interest of thispaper is to present a case of sclerosteosis, and to demonstrate the differences between that entity and other sclerosingdiseases of bone.Keywords: Sclerosteosis; van Buchem disease; HyperosteosisDOI: 10.3329/jom.v11i2.5477J MEDICINE 2010; 11 : 207-211
Correlation of Air Quality Data to Ultrafine Particles (UFP) Concentration and Size Distribution in Ambient Air
Authors: Kwasny Felicitas , Madl Pierre , Hofmann Werner
Published: July 2010

This study monitored ultrafine particles (UFP) concurrent with environmental air quality data, investigating whether already existing instrumentation used by environmental authorities can provide reference values for estimating UFP concentrations. Of particular interest was the relation of UFP to PM10 (particulate matter) and nitrogen oxides (NOx, NO2) in ambient air. Existing PM measurement methods alone did not correspond exactly enough with the actual particle number, but we observed a link between NOx and NO2 to UFP concentration. The combined data could act as proxy-indicator for authorities in estimating particle number concentrations, but cannot replace UFP monitoring.
YKL-40—A Protein in the Field of Translational Medicine: A Role as a Biomarker in Cancer Patients?
Authors: Schultz Nicolai A. , Johansen Julia S.
Published: July 2010

YKL-40 is a 40 kDa glycoprotein produced by cancer cells, inflammatory cells and stem cells. It probably has a role in cell proliferation and differentiation, inflammation, protection against apoptosis, stimulation of angiogenesis, and regulation of extracellular tissue remodelling. Plasma levels of YKL-40 are often elevated in patients with localized or advanced cancer compared to age-matched healthy subjects. Several studies have demonstrated that high plasma YKL-40 is an independent prognostic biomarker of short survival in patients with different types of cancer. However, there is not yet sufficient data to support determination of plasma YKL-40 outside research projects as a biomarker for screening of gastrointestinal cancer and determination of treatment response and poor prognosis before or during treatment and follow-up. Plasma YKL-40 is also elevated in patients with other diseases than cancer, e.g., severe infections, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic obstructive lung disease, asthma, liver fibrosis and rheumatoid arthritis. Co-morbidity should therefore always be considered in patients with cancer, since other sources than cancer cells can increase plasma YKL-40 levels. Future focused translational research projects combining basic and clinical research are needed in a joint effort to answer questions of the complex function and regulation of YKL-40 and the question if plasma YKL-40 is a clinical useful biomarker in patients with cancer.
Recyclable Nanostructured Catalytic Systems in Modern Environmentally Friendly Organic Synthesis
Authors: Beletskaya Irina , Tyurin Vladimir
Published: July 2010

Modern chemical synthesis makes heavy use of different types of catalytic systems: homogeneous, heterogeneous and nano-sized. The latter – nano-sized catalysts – have given rise in the 21st century to a rapidly developing area of research encompassing several prospects and opportunities for new technologies. Catalytic reactions ensure high regio- and stereoselectivity of chemical transformations, as well as better yields and milder reaction conditions. In recent years several novel catalytic systems were developed for selective formation of carbon-heteroatom and carbon-carbon bonds. This review presents the achievements of our team in our studies on various types of catalysts containing metal nanoparticles: palladium-containing diblock copolymer micelles; soluble palladium-containing polymers; metallides on a support; polymeric metal salts and oxides; and, in addition, metal-free organic catalysts based on soluble polymers acting as nanoreactors. Representative examples are given and discussed in light of possible applications to solve important problems in modern organic synthesis.
A New High-Performance Liquid Chromatographic Method for the Determination and Distribution of Linalool in Michelia alba
Authors: Xia En-Qin , Song Yang , Ai Xu-Xia , Guo Ya-Jun , Xu Xiang-Rong , Li Hua-Bin
Published: July 2010

A new high-performance liquid chromatographic method with photodiode array detection was established for the determination of linalool in the plant Michelia alba. Linalool was extracted from the plant sample with the aid of ultrasound, and was analyzed on a Waters RP C18 column (4.6 × 150 mm, 5 μm) using an acetonitrile and water (55:45, v/v) mobile phase at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min. The column temperature was set at 25 ºC, and the detection wavelength was 210 nm. The linear range of the method was 5–200 μg/mL with a correlation coefficient of 0.9975. The recovery was 92–112%, and the relative standard deviation was 1.85% (n = 9). The present method has been used to study the distribution of linalool in the plant Michelia alba. The plant samples include flowers, leaves and tender twigs. Furthermore, leaves included samples in their tender, grown-up and fallen phases, and flowers included samples in their juvenile, middle and whitening phases. The concentrations of linalool in different parts of the plant were 0.21–0.65%, 1.63–4.89% and 0.43% for leaves, flowers and tender twigs, respectively. The results showed that all the plant materials contained relative high concentration of linalool, and juvenile phase flowers contained the highest concentration of linalool. Notably, the fallen leaves also contained high concentrations of linalool, which could be a potential resource of this compound. The results obtained are very helpful for the potential full utilization of this plant.
Dietary Polyphenols and Obesity
Authors: Meydani Mohsen , Hasan Syeda T.
Published: July 2010

The prevalence of overweight and obesity and their associated metabolic disorders are considered a major threat to the public’s health. While several diet and exercise programs are available for weight loss and prevention of weight regain, progress is often slow and disappointing. Recently, natural bioactive phytochemicals present in foods have been discovered for their potential health benefit effects on the prevention of chronic disorders such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, inflammatory and metabolic diseases including obesity.Polyphenols are a class of naturally-occurring phytochemicals, of which some such as catechins, anthocynines, resveratrol and curcumin have been shown to modulate physiological and molecular pathways that are involved in energy metabolism, adiposity, and obesity. The potential in vivo, beneficial effects of these polyphenols on adiposity and obesity as complementary agents in the up-regulation of energy expenditure have emerged by investigating these compounds in cell cultures, animal models of obesity and in some human clinical and epidemiological studies. In this brief review, the efficacy of the above-named polyphenols and their potential efficacy to modulate obesity and some associated disorders are discussed.
Therapeutic Potential of Non-Psychotropic Cannabidiol in Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Hayakawa Kazuhide , Mishima Kenichi , Fujiwara Michihiro
Published: July 2010

Cannabis contains the psychoactive component delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta9-THC), and the non-psychoactive components cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol, and cannabigerol. It is well-known that delta9-THC and other cannabinoid CB1 receptor agonists are neuroprotective during global and focal ischemic injury. Additionally, delta9-THC also mediates psychological effects through the activation of the CB1 receptor in the central nervous system. In addition to the CB1 receptor agonists, cannabis also contains therapeutically active components which are CB1 receptor independent. Of the CB1 receptor-independent cannabis, the most important is CBD. In the past five years, an increasing number of publications have focused on the discovery of the anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and neuroprotective effects of CBD. In particular, CBD exerts positive pharmacological effects in ischemic stroke and other chronic diseases, including Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and rheumatoid arthritis. The cerebroprotective action of CBD is CB1 receptor-independent, long-lasting, and has potent anti-oxidant activity. Importantly, CBD use does not lead to tolerance. In this review, we will discuss the therapeutic possibility of CBD as a cerebroprotective agent, highlighting recent pharmacological advances, novel mechanisms, and therapeutic time window of CBD in ischemic stroke.
No One Dresses Accidentally: A Research Synthesis on Intentional Occupational Performance
Authors: Crabtree Jeffrey L.
Published: July 2010

The fields of philosophy, psychology, and neuroscience have differing but comparable perspectives on intention. Taken together, these perspectives help explain intentional occupational performance. This rich body of research and theory also offers insight into the critical role of intention in the therapeutic use of occupation. This synthesis examines these perspectives of intention as they relate to the concept of occupational performance and discusses the implications of intention for the therapeutic use of occupation, which ultimately include the need for occupational therapists to renew their professional focus on occupation as their single level of intervention.
Cardosoa, a new genus of the subtribe Anisopappinae (Athroismeae, Asteraceae)
Authors: Ortiz Santiago
Published: July 2010

The new genus Cardosoa of the subtribe Anisopappinae (Athroismeae, Asteraceae) is described for the species Anisopappus athanasioides from the Angola Plateau. The diagnostic morphological characteristics of the new genus are discussed, and contrasted to those in Anisopappus its putative sister genus. The main distinguishing features of Cardosoa in Athroismeae are its inflorescence morphology, the bilabiate marginal florets, and shallowly zygomorphic disc florets.
Two new South American species of Croton (Euphorbiaceae) and their phylogenetic affinities
Authors: Riina Ricarda , Berry Paul E.
Published: July 2010

Two rarely collected species of Croton from South America are des cribed and illustrated. Croton chimboracensis P.E. Berry & Riina is localized in western Andean Ecuador and is sister to Croton sect. Adenophyllum Griseb. Croton abonari Riina & P.E. Berry is known from a single location in Amazonian Brazil; it resembles both C. sampatik Müll. Arg. and members of Croton sect. Cuneati (G.L. Webster) Riina & P.E. Berry, but C. abonari can be easily distinguished from both groups by distinctive morphological characters
Inhibition of Glyceraldehyde-3-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Activity by Antibodies Present in the Cerebrospinal Fluid of Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Kölln Johanna , Zhang Yiping , Thai Gaby , Demetriou Michael , Hermanowicz Neal , Duquette Pierre , van den Noort Stanley , Qin Yufen
Published: July 2010

We have previously shown that B cells and Abs reactive with GAPDH and antitriosephosphate isomerase (TPI) are present in lesions and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in multiple sclerosis (MS). In the current study, we studied the effect of anti-GAPDH and anti-TPI CSF IgG on the glycolytic enzyme activity of GAPDH and TPI after exposure to intrathecal IgG from 10 patients with MS and 34 patients with other neurologic diseases. The degree of inhibition of GAPDH activity by CSF anti-GAPDH IgG in the seven MS samples tested varied from 13 to 98%, which seemed to correlate with the percentage of anti-GAPDH IgG in the CSF IgG (1–45%). Inhibition of GAPDH activity (18 and 23%) by CSF IgG was seen in two of the 34 patients with other neurologic diseases, corresponding to the low percentage of CSF anti-GAPDH IgG (1 and 8%). In addition, depletion of anti-GAPDH IgG from CSF IgG, using immobilized GAPDH, removed the inhibitory effect of the IgG on GAPDH. No inhibition of GAPDH activity was seen with CSF samples not containing anti-GAPDH IgG. No inhibition of TPI activity was seen with any purified CSF IgG sample. These findings demonstrate an increased percentage of anti-GAPDH Abs in the CSF of patients with MS that can inhibit GAPDH glycolytic enzyme activity and may contribute to neuroaxonal degeneration.
Heterogeneity among Viral Antigen-Specific CD4+ T Cells and Their De Novo Recruitment during Persistent Polyomavirus Infection
Authors: Lin Eugene , Kemball Christopher C. , Hadley Annette , Wilson Jarad J. , Hofstetter Amelia R. , Pack Christopher D. , Lukacher Aron E.
Published: July 2010

Virus-specific CD4+ T cells optimize antiviral responses by providing help for antiviral humoral responses and CD8+ T cell differentiation. Although CD4+ T cell responses to viral infections that undergo complete clearance have been studied extensively, less is known about virus-specific CD4+ T cell responses to viruses that persistently infect their hosts. Using a mouse polyomavirus (MPyV) infection model, we previously demonstrated that CD4+ T cells are essential for recruiting naive MPyV-specific CD8+ T cells in persistently infected mice. In this study, we defined two dominant MPyV-specific CD4+ T cell populations, one directed toward an epitope derived from the nonstructural large T Ag and the other from the major viral capsid protein of MPyV. These MPyV-specific CD4+ T cells vary in terms of their magnitude, functional profile, and phenotype during acute and persistent phases of infection. Using a minimally myeloablative-mixed bone marrow chimerism approach, we further show that naive virus-specific CD4+ T cells, like anti-MPyV CD8+ T cells, are primed de novo during persistent virus infection. In summary, these findings reveal quantitative and qualitative differences in the CD4+ T cell response to a persistent virus infection and demonstrate that naive antiviral CD4+ T cells are recruited during chronic polyomavirus infection.
Inflammasome Activation by Adenylate Cyclase Toxin Directs Th17 Responses and Protection against Bordetella pertussis
Authors: Dunne Aisling , Ross Pádraig J. , Pospisilova Eva , Masin Jiri , Meaney Aoife , Sutton Caroline E. , Iwakura Yoichiro , Tschopp Jurg , Sebo Peter , Mills Kingston H. G.
Published: July 2010

Inflammasome-mediated IL-1β production is central to the innate immune defects that give rise to certain autoinflammatory diseases and may also be associated with the generation of IL-17–producing CD4+ T (Th17) cells that mediate autoimmunity. However, the role of the inflammasome in driving adaptive immunity to infection has not been addressed. In this article, we demonstrate that inflammasome-mediated IL-1β plays a critical role in promoting Ag-specific Th17 cells and in generating protective immunity against Bordetella pertussis infection. Using a murine respiratory challenge model, we demonstrated that the course of B. pertussis infection was significantly exacerbated in IL-1R type I-defective (IL-1RI−/−) mice. We found that adenylate cyclase toxin (CyaA), a key virulence factor secreted by B. pertussis, induced robust IL-1β production by dendritic cells through activation of caspase-1 and the NALP3-containing inflammasome complex. Using mutant toxins, we demonstrate that CyaA-mediated activation of caspase-1 was not dependent on adenylate cyclase enzyme activity but was dependent on the pore-forming capacity of CyaA. In addition, CyaA promoted the induction of Ag-specific Th17 cells in wild-type but not IL-1RI−/− mice. Furthermore, the bacterial load was enhanced in IL-17–defective mice. Our findings demonstrate that CyaA, a virulence factor from B. pertussis, promotes innate IL-1β production via activation of the NALP3 inflammasome and, thereby, polarizes T cell responses toward the Th17 subtype. In addition to its known role in subverting host immunity, our findings suggest that CyaA can promote IL-1β–mediated Th17 cells, which promote clearance of the bacteria from the respiratory tract.
NF-κB RelA Subunit Is Crucial for Early IFN-β Expression and Resistance to RNA Virus Replication
Authors: Wang Junmei , Basagoudanavar Suresh H. , Wang Xingyu , Hopewell Emily , Albrecht Randy , García-Sastre Adolfo , Balachandran Siddharth , Beg Amer A.
Published: July 2010

RNA virus infection results in expression of type 1 IFNs, especially IFN-α/β, which play a crucial role in host antivirus responses. Type 1 IFNs are induced in a cell type-specific manner through TLR and RIG-I–like receptor pathways, both of which activate IFN regulatory factors (IRFs) and NF-κB transcription factors. Although NF-κB activation and association with the IFN-β promoter after RNA virus infection is well documented, our previous work showed that, surprisingly, NF-κB is not essential for IFN-β gene expression. Thus, the actual function of NF-κB in IFN-β expression and virus replication is not clear. In this study, we found Newcastle disease virus and vesicular stomatitis virus replication is enhanced in mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) lacking the NF-κB RelA subunit. Increased virus replication was traced to a specific requirement for RelA in early virus-induced IFN-β expression. At these time points, when IFN-β expression is ~100-fold less than peak levels, impaired IFN-β production delayed IFN-induced gene expression, resulting in increased virus replication in RelA−/− MEFs. Importantly, our results show that RelA requirement is crucial only when IRF3 activation is low. Thus, high levels of activated IRF3 expression are sufficient for induction of IFN-β in RelA−/− MEFs, transcriptional synergism with the coactivator CREB-binding protein, and rescue of susceptibility to virus. Together, these findings indicate that NF-κB RelA is not crucial for regulating overall IFN-β production, as previously believed; instead, RelA is specifically required only during a key early phase after virus infection, which substantially impacts the host response to virus infection.
CD8+ T Cell Responses following Replication-Defective Adenovirus Serotype 5 Immunization Are Dependent on CD11c+ Dendritic Cells but Show Redundancy in Their Requirement of TLR and Nucleotide-Binding Oligomerization Domain-Like Receptor Signaling
Authors: Lindsay Ross W. B. , Darrah Patricia A. , Quinn Kylie M. , Wille-Reece Ulrike , Mattei Lisa M. , Iwasaki Akiko , Kasturi Sudhir P. , Pulendran Bali , Gall Jason G. D. , Spies A. Gregory , Seder Robert A.
Published: July 2010

Replication-defective adenovirus serotype 5 (rAd5) is the most potent recombinant vector for eliciting CD8 T cell responses in humans. In this study, the innate mechanisms that influence T cell responses following rAd5 immunization were assessed in mice. Using rAd5 expressing enhanced GFP (eGFP-rAd5), we show that rAd5 transfects CD11c+ dendritic cells (DCs) in draining lymph nodes in vivo following s.c. or i.m. immunization. Among distinct DC subsets, eGFP expression was highest in CD11c+CD8−B220− with a lower frequency detected in CD11c+CD8+B220− and CD11c+B220+ plasmacytoid DCs. CD11c+ DCs but not CD11c− cells from mice immunized with rAd5 encoding the SIINFEKL peptide induced proliferation of naive OT-I CD8 T cells. Furthermore, CD11c+CD8+B220− was the most potent DC subset for eliciting naive OT-I CD8 T cell proliferation. Of note, mice with pre-existing immunity to rAd5 had a substantial decrease in eGFP expression in DCs, which was associated with ~2-fold decrease in Th1 and complete inhibition of CD8 responses. Thus, pre-existing rAd5 immunity has a greater influence on CD8 compared with CD4 T cell responses. In terms of how innate cytokines and signaling pathways influenced T cell immunity following rAd5 immunization, we show that the magnitude and quality of CD8 T cell responses are partially dependent on MyD88 but independent of IL-12, type I IFN, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein, nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor protein 3, and IL-1. Taken together, these data demonstrate a critical role for CD11c+ DCs for CD8 responses but striking redundancy for innate cytokines and signaling by TLR and nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor pathways.
Antibodies to HLA-E in Nonalloimmunized Males: Pattern of HLA-Ia Reactivity of Anti–HLA-E–Positive Sera
Authors: Ravindranath Mepur H. , Kaneku Hugo , El-Awar Nadim , Morales-Buenrostro Luis E. , Terasaki Paul I.
Published: July 2010

Natural anti-HLA Abs found in sera of healthy nonalloimmunized males recognize HLA-Ia alleles parallel to those recognized by anti–HLA-E mAbs (MEM-E/02/06/07). Therefore, some of the HLA-Ia Abs seen in healthy males could be due to anti–HLA-E Abs cross-reacting with HLA-Ia. If anti–HLA-E Abs occur in healthy nonalloimmunized males, it can be assessed whether they evoke HLA-Ia reactivity as do mouse HLA-E mAbs. IgG and IgM Abs to HLA-E and HLA-Ia alleles are identified in sera of healthy males using microbeads coated with recombinant denatured HLA-E or a panel of rHLA-Ia alleles. The pattern of allelic recognition is comparable to that of anti–HLA-E mAbs. Sixty-six percent of the sera with HLA-E IgG have a high level of HLA-Ia IgG, whereas 70% of those with no anti–HLA-E Abs have no HLA-Ia Abs. HLA-E IgM/IgG ratios of sera are divided into four groups: IgMLow/IgGLow, IgMHigh/IgGLow, IgMHigh/IgGHigh, and IgMLow/IgGHigh. These groups correspond to anti–HLA-Ia IgM/IgG ratio groups. When HLA-E IgM and IgG are absent or present in males, the IgM or IgG of HLA-Ia are similarly absent or present. The mean fluorescent intensity of HLA-Ia Abs correlates with that of anti–HLA-E Abs. Most importantly, HLA-E and HLA-Ia reactivities of the sera are inhibited by the shared, but cryptic, peptide sequences 117AYDGKDY123 and 137DTAAQIS143. Therefore, Abs to the H chain of HLA-E may be responsible for some of the HLA-Ia allele reactivity of the natural HLA-Ia Ab in human sera. Absence of any anti–HLA-Ia Abs in 112 nonvegans and the presence of the same in vegans suggest that dietary meat proteins might not have induced the natural allo-HLA Abs.
Candida albicans Dampens Host Defense by Downregulating IL-17 Production
Authors: Cheng Shih-Chin , van de Veerdonk Frank , Smeekens Sanne , Joosten Leo A. B. , van der Meer Jos W. M. , Kullberg Bart-Jan , Netea Mihai G.
Published: July 2010

IL-17 is one of the key cytokines that stimulate host defense during a Candida infection. Several studies have demonstrated the capacity of Candida albicans to induce a Th17 response. Surprisingly, experiments employing live C. ablicans demonstrated a specific downregulation of host IL-17 secretion in human blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). By avoiding the direct contact of live C. albicans and PBMCs, we demonstrate that this inhibition effect is mediated by a soluble factor released by live C. albicans. However, this effect is due neither to the releasing of C. albicans pathogen-associated molecular patterns nor to the alteration of different Th cell subtypes. Rather, we found that live C. albicans shifts tryptophan metabolism by inhibiting IDO expression away from kynurenines and toward 5-hydroxytryptophan metabolites. In addition, we show that these latter 5-hydroxytryptophan metabolites inhibit IL-17 production. In conclusion, live C. albicans inhibits host Th17 responses by modulatory effects on tryptophan metabolism.
Tc17 Cells Are Capable of Mediating Immunity to Vaccinia Virus by Acquisition of a Cytotoxic Phenotype
Authors: Yeh Norman , Glosson Nicole L. , Wang Nan , Guindon Lynette , McKinley Carl , Hamada Hiromasa , Li Qingsheng , Dutton Richard W. , Shrikant Protul , Zhou Baohua , Brutkiewicz Randy R. , Blum Janice S. , Kaplan Mark H.
Published: July 2010

CD8 T cells can acquire cytokine-secreting phenotypes paralleling cytokine production from Th cells. IL-17–secreting CD8 T cells, termed Tc17 cells, were shown to promote inflammation and mediate immunity to influenza. However, most reports observed a lack of cytotoxic activity by Tc17 cells. In this study, we explored the anti-viral activity of Tc17 cells using a vaccinia virus (VV) infection model. Tc17 cells expanded during VV infection, and TCR transgenic Tc17 cells were capable of clearing recombinant VV infection. In vivo, adoptively transferred Tc17 cells lost the IL-17–secreting phenotype, even in the absence of stimulation, but they did not acquire IFN-γ–secreting potential unless stimulated with a virus-encoded Ag. However, examination of cells following infection demonstrated that these cells acquired cytotoxic potential in vivo, even in the absence of IFN-γ. Cytotoxic potential correlated with Fasl expression, and the cytotoxic activity of postinfection Tc17 cells was partially blocked by the addition of anti-FasL. Thus, Tc17 cells mediate VV clearance through expression of specific molecules associated with cytotoxicity but independent of an acquired Tc1 phenotype.
Peripheral 4-1BB Signaling Negatively Regulates NK Cell Development through IFN-γ
Authors: Choi Beom K. , Kim Young H. , Kim Chang H. , Kim Moon S. , Kim Kwang H. , Oh Ho S. , Lee Myoung J. , Lee Don K. , Vinay Dass S. , Kwon Byoung S.
Published: July 2010

Stimulation of 4-1BB (CD137) was shown to produce strong anticancer effects in vivo. In contrast, 4-1BB–deficient (4-1BB−/−) B6 mice are remarkably resistant to tumor growth. We set out to determine the mechanisms involved in these seemingly contradictory observations. We found that the therapeutic effects of 4-1BB triggering were mainly dependent on CD8+ T cells and partially on NK cells, whereas CD8+ T and NK cells were equally needed to suppress tumor growth in 4-1BB−/− mice. Cellular analysis showed that the frequency and number of NK cells in the spleen and bone marrow were decreased by 4-1BB triggering but were increased in the absence of 4-1BB signaling in tumor-challenged mice. The 4-1BB–mediated downregulation of NK cell development was primarily dependent on IFN-γ, which was produced by peripheral CD8+ T and NK cells. The suppression of NK cell development by 4-1BB–mediated IFN-γ production occurred in the bone marrow. As 4-1BB signaling increased in the periphery, more CD8+ T cells but fewer NK cells contributed to the antitumor immunity. As 4-1BB signaling decreased, more NK cells participated in the antitumor immunity. We conclude that 4-1BB signaling results in a shift of the dominant type of immune cell in antitumor immunity from the innate NK cell to the adaptive CD8+ T cell and that the level of IFN-γ is critical for this 4-1BB–mediated shift.
TNF, but Not IL-6 and IL-17, Is Crucial for the Development of T Cell-Independent Psoriasis-Like Dermatitis in Il1rn−/− Mice
Authors: Nakajima Akiko , Matsuki Taizo , Komine Mayumi , Asahina Akihiko , Horai Reiko , Nakae Susumu , Ishigame Harumichi , Kakuta Shigeru , Saijo Shinobu , Iwakura Yoichiro
Published: July 2010

IL-1 is a proinflammatory cytokine consisting of two molecular species, IL-1α and IL-1β, and IL-1R antagonist (gene: Il1rn) is the endogenous suppressor. Il1rn−/− mice spontaneously develop autoimmune diseases, such as arthritis and aortitis, and a dermatitis that histologically resembles human psoriasis. The pathogenic mechanisms underlying this dermatitis, however, remain to be elucidated. In this study, we demonstrated that the production of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines was enhanced at the site of inflammation. The development of dermatitis was completely suppressed in Tnfsf1a−/− but not in Il6−/− mice, similar to that observed in arthritis and aortitis. However, IL-17 deficiency did not affect the development of dermatitis at all, in clear contrast to that of arthritis and aortitis. Different from arthritis and aortitis, adoptive transfer of Il1rn−/− T cells did not induce dermatitis in the recipient SCID mice and skin lesions developed in Il1rn−/− SCID mice, indicating that T cells are not involved in the development of skin lesions. In support for this, bone marrow cell transplantation experiments showed that TNF produced by skin residential cells, but not bone marrow cell-derived cells, was important for the development of dermatitis. Furthermore, we showed that IL-1 directly enhanced TNF and chemokine expression in keratinocytes. These observations suggest that excess IL-1 signaling directly activates keratinocytes to produce TNF and chemokines, resulting in the development of psoriasis-like skin lesions without the involvement of autoimmunity in Il1rn−/− mice.
Human Complement Factor H Binds to Outer Membrane Protein Rck of Salmonella
Authors: Ho Derek K. , Jarva Hanna , Meri Seppo
Published: July 2010

Serum resistance, or resistance to complement-mediated killing, is a key virulence property of microbial pathogens. Rck is a 17-kDa outer membrane protein encoded on the virulence plasmid of Salmonella enterica serovars Typhimurium and Enteritidis. When expressed in either Escherichia coli or S. enterica Typhimurium, Rck confers serum resistance independent of LPS length. Recently, the Rck homolog from Yersinia enterocolitica, Ail, has been shown to bind the complement regulatory protein factor H (fH). Based on these observations, we hypothesized that Rck may also possess this ability. Using both flow cytometery and direct binding analysis, we demonstrate that Rck expressed in E. coli binds fH. We observed fH binding to Rck from human serum and also using the purified protein. Expression of Rck protected bacteria from alternative pathway-mediated killing and was associated with a reduction in C3b, Bb, and membrane attack complex deposition. fH bound to Rck promoted C3b cleavage in the presence of factor I. Binding was specific and mediated by two regions in fH, the short consensus repeats 5–7 and 19 to 20. These results suggest that fH recruitment by Rck is functional and can protect a normally serum-sensitive heterologous host against complement attack. Binding and exploitation of fH may thus contribute to Rck-mediated serum resistance.
Restricting access to publications from funded research
Authors: Manikandan S , Vani N Isai
Published: July 2010

India is becoming one of the hubs of clinical research. Commensurate with these advances, the government funding for biomedical research in thrust areas is also increasing. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Department of Science and Technology (DST) are some of the government organizations which provide financial support for various research projects. The results of the funded research projects are published in various international journals. Most of these journals have an access to paid subscribers only. Hence it is unethical to use the research grants from government (people's money) and not allow the scientific community free access to the results of the study. To tackle such issues, these agencies should sign the Berlin declaration and create open access repositories. A public access policy should be formulated and listed in JULIET. The funding bodies in India should also join Pubmed Central (PMC) to form PMC India so that every investigator who has received grants would submit the full text of the paper published from his study and these can be made freely accessible to everyone. Universities and research institutions should also develop institutional open access repositories. The public access policy has definitive advantages and should be implemented.
Tricuspid endocarditis in hyper-IgE syndrome
Authors: Gupta S , Mittal A , Gupta S , Jagdish
Published: July 2010

Hyper-IgE syndrome is a congenitally acquired primary immune deficiency condition. We report a case of possible hyper-IgE syndrome who presented with multiple cold skin abscesses and chest infection due to Staphylococcus aureus and hyper-IgE findings. Patient also had tricuspid valve acute bacterial endocarditis with purulent pericarditis which is very rare. This case is presented to highlight that early diagnosis and treatment in such cases decreases the mortality and morbidity in phagocytic disorders.
Immunoglobulin G4-associated cholangitis mimicking cholangiocarcinoma in a young boy
Authors: Miglani RK , Murthy D , Bhat R , Kumar AKV
Published: July 2010

Autoimmune pancreatitis is a rare form of chronic pancreatitis, which commonly mimics pancreatic carcinoma. Immunoglobulin G4-associated cholangitis (IAC) is a rare type of autoimmune pancreatitis associated with bile duct involvement, which can present with or without pancreatic involvement. Usually, the bile duct involvement is in the form of multiple intra-and extra-hepatic strictures mimicking primary sclerosing cholangitis. Rarely, there can be an isolated stricture which mimics cholangiocarcinoma. Differentiating these from cholangiocarcinoma, though extremely difficult, is of critical importance since it can be treated without surgical intervention. Most cases with rare presentation mimicking cholangiocarcinoma have been reported in elderly patients. We present one such rare presentation of autoimmune pancreatitis in a young 13-year-old patient in whom hepaticojejunostomy was done for a hilar stricture, which later turned out to be related to IAC. To our knowledge this is the first reported case of its kind from India.
Cycloheximide speeds the porcine oocyte nuclear kinetics and retains embryonic developmental potential in the presence of gonadotrophins
Authors: Sun X -L. , Ma W -Z. , Zhu Y -B. , Wu Z -H. , An L. , Chu D -P , Clapper J A , Li Y. , Tian J -H.
Published: July 2010

Animal embryo engineering requires large amounts of synchronized mature oocytes in vitro. However, porcine cumulus-oocyte complexes aspirated from 3-8 mm follicles are at different germinal vesicle stages. They reach metaphase II stages asynchronously when cultured in vitro. In this study, we examined the effects of pretreatment with or without cycloheximide (CHX), equine chorionic gonadotrophin (eCG), human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG), and their combinations on meiotic synchronization and the developmental competence of porcine oocytes in vitro following electrical activation. The COCs were pretreated for 12 h with either control medium (TCM 199), CHX (TCM 199 + CHX), eCG/hCG (TCM 199 + eCG/hCG) or eCG/hCG + CHX (TCM 199 + CHX + eCG/hCG), and then cultured for up to 32 h with TCM199 + eCG/hCG. After 12 h pretreatment, the rates of germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) were lower (P < 0.05) in the CHX (8.4%) and eCG/hCG + CHX (1.5%) groups compared with control (55.4%) and eCG/hCG (27.2%) groups. After removal of CHX and culture for an additional 12 h in vitro, the majority of the oocytes were synchronized at the GVBD stage in CHX (75.6%) and eCG/hCG + CHX (65.0%) groups. At additional 32 h of culture, the rate of oocytes in metaphase II in eCG/hCG + CHX group (68.3%) was significantly (P < 0.05) higher than the eCG/hCG group (54.8%), but did not differ from other groups (control: 61.3%, CHX: 58.8%). After electrical activation, the cleavage and blastocyst formation rates in the CHX group (80.3%; 19.5%) were significantly (P < 0.05) lower than those in the control group (95.5%; 45.3%), while no difference was found between eCG/hCG + CHX (82.2%; 34.4%) and control groups. Our data, hence, demonstrate pretreatment with CHX hastened nuclear kinetics of porcine oocytes cultured in vitro; however, embryo development potential was retained only when gonadotrophins is present in the in vitro maturation (IVM) medium. Thus, CHX should be used in the two-step culture systems in combination with gonadotrophins. Key words: Oocyte meiosis, synchronization, cycloheximide, embryo development, pig
Utilization of canola seed fractions for ruminants: effect of canola fibre-protein and can-sugar inclusion in dehydrated alfalfa pellets on palatability and lactation performance of dairy cows
Authors: Heendeniya R G , Christensen D A , Maenz D D , McKinnon J J , Yu P.
Published: July 2010

This research evaluated the effect of fibre-protein and can-sugar additions to dehydrated alfalfa pellets on feed acceptance, lactation performance, dry matter intake and apparent dry matter digestibility of dairy cows compared with a standard (pure) alfalfa pellet. The results showed that a two:one ratio of fibre-protein to can-sugar mixture can be added at 150 g kg-1 to a standard alfalfa pellet without affecting the palatability and lactation performance of dairy cows, when the alfalfa pellets are included at 50 g kg-1 (as fed basis) of a total mixed ration (TMR). Key words: Canola fractions, fibre-protein, can-sugar, palatability, lactation performances, dairy cows
An in silico study of the genes for the isoflavonoid pathway enzymes in soybean reveals novel expressed homologues
Authors: Livingstone J M , Seguin P. , Strömvik M V
Published: July 2010

Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] is an important source of isoflavones used by the nutraceutical industry. The soybean genome (2n = 40, 975 Mb) has recently been sequenced, and over a million (redundant) gene tags (expressed sequence tags, ESTs) are available in public databases. Using bioinformatics, we investigated five key enzymes of the isoflavonoid pathway (i.e., chalcone isomerase, isoflavone synthase, 2-hydroxyisoflavanone dehydratase, isoflavanone-7-O-glycosyltransferase, and isoflavone-7-O-glucoside-6′′-O-malonyltransferase) to gain a better understanding of which gene homologues are expressed. Contiguous sequences (contigs) were assembled from EST data to represent the specific genes and were subsequently used to predict and verify known and novel gene homologues in the recently released chromosome-based assembly of the soybean genome. Novel transcripts for 2-hydroxyisoflavanone dehydratase and isoflavone-7-O-glucosyltransferase were discovered in these data and in silico expression profiles are presented for all the genes identified in the isoflavonoid pathway. Key words: Soybean, expressed sequence tag, isoflavonoid, gene expression, homologues
Effect of salinity on seasonal community patterns of Mediterranean temporary wetland crustaceans: A mesocosm study
Authors: Waterkeyn Aline , Vanschoenwinkel Bram , Grillas Patrick , Brendoncka Luc
Published: July 2010

In a large‐scale outdoor mesocosm experiment we studied the effects of salinity on successional patterns, diversity, and relative abundances of Camargue (southern France) temporary pool crustaceans. Eighty mesocosms were inoculated with a mixed resting egg bank and exposed to four different salinity treatments (0.5, 1.0, 2.5, and 5.0 g L−1) for a period of 7 months. Salinity significantly altered crustacean communities hatching from the resting egg bank through a number of direct and indirect effects. Salinity had a significant negative effect on the establishment of large branchiopods and copepods. Both richness and density of cladocerans, especially chydorids, were positively related to salinity, possibly due to the absence of biotic interactions with large branchiopods at the highest salinity values. We hypothesize that the salinity‐mediated presence of the large branchiopod keystone group can shift the whole wetland regime from a zooplankton‐rich clear‐water state to a zooplankton‐poor turbid state. Crustacean succession was significantly altered by salinity, by slowing down development rates, population growth or maturation rates of some species. This suggests that in addition to salinity changes, any alteration of wetland hydroperiod (e.g., through aridification or inappropriate water management) could have a synergistic effect on community structure and diversity of invertebrate communities, including some keystone species.
Manual Ability Classification System for Children With Cerebral Palsy in a School Setting and Its Relationship to Home Self-Care Activities
Authors: Kuijper M. A. , van der Wilden G. J. , Ketelaar M. , Gorter J. W.
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVE. Our aim in this study was to investigate the relationship between (a) the manual abilities of children with cerebral palsy (CP), assessed with the Manual Ability Classification System (MACS) in a school rehabilitation setting, and (b) the children’s performance of self-care activities at home, assessed with the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI). In addition, we assessed the interobserver reliability of the MACS.

METHOD. Sixty-one children with CP were included (mean age = 10.3 yr, range = 5–14). The MACS was classified by 2 independent raters. The PEDI was scored in a structured interview.

RESULTS. The Spearman correlation coefficient between the MACS and the self-care domain of the PEDI Caregiver Assistance Scale was high and statistically significant (r = .72). The interobserver reliability of the MACS was good (weighted κ = .86).

CONCLUSION. The MACS is a reliable instrument in a school environment and is related to the performance of daily life self-care activities at home.
Novel SO2 spectral evaluation scheme using the 360–390 nm wavelength range
Authors: Bobrowski N. , Kern C. , Platt U. , Hörmann C. , Wagner T.
Published: July 2010

Abstract. Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (DOAS) is a well established spectroscopic method to determine trace gases in the atmosphere. During the last decade, passive DOAS, which uses solar radiation scattered in the atmosphere as a light source, has become a standard tool to determine SO2 column densities and emission fluxes from volcanoes and other large sources by ground based as well as satellite measurements. For the determination of SO2 column densities, the structured absorption of the molecule in the 300–330 nm region (due to the A1B1 ← X1A1 transition) is used. However, there are several problems limiting the accuracy of the technique in this particular application. Here we propose to use an alternative wavelength region (360–390 nm) due to the spin-forbidden a3B2 ← X1A1 transition for the DOAS evaluation of SO2 in conditions where high SO2 column densities prevail. We show this range to have considerable advantages in such cases, in particular when the particle content of the plume is high and when measurements are performed at large distances from the area of interest.
Impacts of exotic mangrove forests and mangrove deforestation on carbon remineralization and ecosystem functioning in marine sediments
Authors: Sweetman A. K. , Middelburg J. J. , Berle A. M. , Bernardino A. F. , Schander C. , Demopoulos A. W. J. , Smith C. R.
Published: July 2010

Abstract. To evaluate how mangrove invasion and removal can modify short-term benthic carbon cycling and ecosystem functioning, we used stable-isotopically labeled algae as a deliberate tracer to quantify benthic respiration and C-flow over 48 h through macrofauna and bacteria in sediments collected from (1) an invasive mangrove forest, (2) deforested mangrove sites 2 and 6 years after removal of above-sediment mangrove biomass, and (3) two mangrove-free control sites in the Hawaiian coastal zone. Sediment oxygen consumption (SOC) rates averaged over each 48 h investigation were significantly greater in the mangrove and mangrove removal site experiments than in controls and were significantly correlated with total benthic (macrofauna and bacteria) biomass and sedimentary mangrove biomass (SMB). Bacteria dominated short-term C-processing of added microalgal-C and benthic biomass in sediments from the invasive mangrove forest habitat and in the 6-yr removal site. In contrast, macrofauna were the most important agents in the short-term processing of microalgal-C in sediments from the 2-yr mangrove removal site and control sites. However, mean faunal abundance and C-uptake rates in sediments from both removal sites were significantly higher than in control cores, which collectively suggest that community structure and short-term C-cycling dynamics of sediments in habitats where mangroves have been cleared can remain fundamentally different from un-invaded mudflat sediments for at least 6-yrs following above-sediment mangrove removal. In summary, invasion by mangroves can lead to dramatic shifts in benthic ecosystem function, with sediment metabolism, benthic community structure and short-term C-remineralization dynamics being affected for years following invader removal.
Primatology between feelings and science: a personal experience perspective
Authors: Vitale Augusto
Published: July 2010

The aim of this article is to discuss some aspects of the relationship between feelings and primatological science, and how this relationship can influence this particular scientific practice. This point of view is based on the author's personal experience. A sentimental reason to study primatology in the first place will be discussed, and then the existence of a bond between the observer and the observed will be presented as a possible by‐product of primatology. The following question is whether a sentimental attitude toward primates is detrimental for good science or is, alternatively, actually leading to better primatological science. As an example, the practice of naming individual monkeys is considered. It is argued that naming monkeys can help by characterizing individuality, and this is likely to improve planning of behavioural observations and welfare of captive individuals. The relationship between the researcher and study subject in biomedical studies is discussed in terms of hierarchy of moral status. Finally, primatology is not unique in the existence of bonds between the observer and the observed, at least from the point of view of the observer. However, primatology is unique because, more than in other cases, it gives greater opportunity for reasoning about different factors surrounding “doing science with animals.” This is most probably owing to the phylogenetic closeness primatologists have with their study subjects. Among the different factors involved in making science using animals, the sentimental bond developing between the researcher and study animal can be very influential. Am. J. Primatol. 73:214–219, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.