bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Taxonome: a software package for linking biological species data
Authors: Kluyver Thomas A. , Osborne Colin P.
Published: April 2013

Online databases of biological information offer tremendous potential for evolutionary and ecological discoveries, especially if data are combined in novel ways. However, the different names and varied spellings used for many species present major barriers to linking data. Taxonome is a software tool designed to solve this problem by quickly and reproducibly matching biological names to a given reference set. It is available both as a graphical user interface (GUI) for simple interactive use, and as a library for more advanced functionality with programs written in Python. Taxonome also includes functions to standardize distribution information to a well‐defined set of regions, such as the TDWG World Geographical Scheme for Recording Plant Distributions. In combination, these tools will help biologists to rapidly synthesize disparate datasets, and to investigate large‐scale patterns in species traits.
Plasmacytoid, conventional, and monocyte‐derived dendritic cells undergo a profound and convergent genetic reprogramming during their maturation
Authors: Manh Thien‐Phong Vu , Alexandre Yannick , Baranek Thomas , Crozat Karine , Dalod Marc
Published: April 2013

DCs express receptors sensing microbial, danger or cytokine signals, which when triggered in combination drive DC maturation and functional polarization. Maturation was proposed to result from a discrete number of modifications in conventional DCs (cDCs), in contrast to a cell‐fate conversion in plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs). cDC maturation is generally assessed by measuring cytokine production and membrane expression of MHC class II and co‐stimulation molecules. pDC maturation complexity was demonstrated by functional genomics. Here, pDCs and cDCs were shown to undergo profound and convergent changes in their gene expression programs in vivo during viral infection. This observation was generalized to other stimulation conditions and DC subsets, by public microarray data analyses, PCR confirmation of selected gene expression profiles, and gene regulatory sequence bioinformatics analyses. Thus, maturation is a complex process similarly reshaping all DC subsets, including through the induction of a core set of NF‐κB‐ or IFN‐stimulated genes irrespective of stimuli.
Adaptive reconfiguration of the human NK‐cell compartment in response to cytomegalovirus: A different perspective of the host‐pathogen interaction
Authors: Muntasell Aura , Vilches Carlos , Angulo Ana , López‐Botet Miguel
Published: April 2013

As discussed in this review, human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection in healthy individuals is associated with a variable and persistent increase of NK cells expressing the CD94/NKG2C activating receptor. The expansion of NKG2C+ NK cells reported in other infectious diseases is systematically associated with HCMV co‐infection. The functionally mature NKG2Cbright NK‐cell subset expanding in HCMV+ individuals displays inhibitory Ig‐like receptors (KIR and LILRB1) specific for self HLA class I, and low levels of NKp46 and NKp30 activating receptors. Such reconfiguration of the NK‐cell compartment appears particularly marked in immunocompromised patients and in children with symptomatic congenital infection, thus suggesting that its magnitude may be inversely related with the efficiency of the T‐cell‐mediated response. This effect of HCMV infection is reminiscent of the pattern of response of murine Ly49H+ NK cells against murine CMV (MCMV), and it has been hypothesized that a cognate interaction of the CD94/NKG2C receptor with HCMV‐infected cells may drive the expansion of the corresponding NK‐cell subset. Yet, the precise role of NKG2C+ cells in the control of HCMV infection, the molecular mechanisms underlying the NK‐cell compartment redistribution, as well as its putative influence in the response to other pathogens and tumors remain open issues.
Reactivity of Auranofin with Selenols and Thiols – Implications for the Anticancer Activity of Gold(I) Compounds
Authors: Di Sarra Francesca , Fresch Barbara , Bini Riccardo , Saielli Giacomo , Bagno Alessandro
Published: April 2013

The enzyme thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) is attracting much interest as a potential target for cancer therapy. The presence of a selenium atom in the catalytic site makes it sensitive to inhibition by electrophilic molecules, including the AuI complex auranofin [2,3,4,6‐tetra‐O‐acetyl‐1‐thio‐β‐D‐glucopyranosato‐S‐(triethylphosphane)gold]. The reactions between auranofin and models of thiol and selenol nucleophiles present in TrxR (PhSH and PhSeH) have been investigated in chloroform and methanol by means of 1H, 31P, and 77Se NMR spectroscopy. In chloroform, auranofin undergoes ligand substitution of the tetraacetylthioglucose moiety by a PhS or PhSe group. The reaction is reversible in both cases, but it is characterized by widely different equilibrium constants (ca. 1 for S and at least 103 for Se). In polar solvents, such as methanol, the reaction is more complex, and the phosphane moiety also undergoes ligand exchange. Some features have been clarified through the investigation of Et3PAuCl. The elementary processes involved have been characterized by DFT calculations.
Enhanced Electrochemiluminescence of TiO2 Nanoparticles Modified Electrode by Nafion Film and Its Application in Selective Detection of Dopamine
Authors: Tian Chun‐Yuan , Xu Jing‐Juan , Chen Hong‐Yuan
Published: April 2013

In this work, a simple and effective approach to obtain stable, nontoxic and strong electrochemiluminescence (ECL) interfaces is provided by coating TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) surfaces with Nafion. Unlike a decrease of the current resulting from the blocked diffusion usually displayed in electrochemical processes by Nafion coating, a Nafion/TiO2 NPs modified electrode not only shows a highly stable ECL, but also shows an 8‐fold increase of ECL intensity and a reduction of the overpotential of ca. 300 mV in the presence of K2S2O8 as co‐reactant, compared with those of bare TiO2 NPs modified electrodes. The roles of Nafion coating on TiO2 NPs in the ECL process are proposed to be twofold: to provide refuge for the free radicals and to enhance the electron‐hole recombination. Benefiting from its excellent ECL performance, the cationic exchange function of Nafion and the susceptible to being oxidized performance of dopamine (DA) by holes, the Nafion/TiO2 composite electrode could be used to sensitively and selectively detect DA with a detection limit of 1.0×10−11 M and a linear range of 1.0×10−11–6.0×10−7 M. The coexisting anionic species such as excess ascorbic acid show little interference on DA detection.
Lock‐in thermography as a tool for quality control of photovoltaic modules
Authors: Vetter Andreas , Fecher Frank , Adams Jens , Schaeffler Raymund , Theisen Jean‐Patrick , Brabec Christoph J. , Buerhop Claudia
Published: April 2013

In this short communication, we present a method which utilizes contactless ILIT (illuminated lock‐in thermography) measurement of a photovoltaic (PV) module and image postprocessing in order to calculate the peak power Pmpp of the module and to study the influence of local defects on the module performance. In total, 103 Copper‐Indium‐Gallium‐Diselenide (CIGS) modules were investigated and the results showed a good correlation (mean error less than 6%) between the calculated IR‐signal and the measured Pmpp. We performed our study on CIGS modules but the presented approach is not restricted to CIGS modules. The method provides a valuable tool for PV quality control.
Effect of processing methods on the chemical composition of Vitex doniana leaf and leaf products
Authors: Osum Frances I. , Okonkwo Thomas M. , Okafor Gabriel I.
Published: April 2013

Fresh leaves of Vitex doniana were subjected to different food processing methods such as drying, blanching and drying, fermentation of the leaf extract as well as blanching and fermentation of the leaf extract. The proximate composition, mineral and vitamin contents of the fresh and processed leaves were subsequently determined, using standard methods. The results shows that V. doniana leaf and products had the following ranges of proximate parameters: 0.07–17.29% protein, 1.85–6.33% fiber, 0.47–6.55% ash, 10.86–95.67% moisture, 0.05–1.29% fat, and 3.61–58.08% carbohydrate. The level of micronutrients detected were generally high and ranged as follows: minerals – Ca (13.38–59.50 mg/100 g), Fe (3.0–18.00 mg/100 g), Na (0.37–1.29 mg/100 g), and vitamins C (1.5–32.98 mg/100 g), A (54.6–3583.26 IU), E (3.11–53.36 mg/100 g), and B2 (0.01–9.63 mg/100 g). However, the various processing methods used led to significant (P < 0.05) decrease of micronutrients in the extracts, while it caused significant (P < 0.05) increase in the protein, fat, and ash content of the oven‐dried sample.
Nerve injury induces glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor (gdnf) expression in schwann cells through purinergic signaling and the pkc‐pkd pathway
Authors: Xu Pin , Rosen Kenneth M. , Hedstrom Kristian , Rey Osvaldo , Guha Sushovan , Hart Courtney , Corfas Gabriel
Published: April 2013

Upon peripheral nerve injury, specific molecular events, including increases in the expression of selected neurotrophic factors, are initiated to prepare the tissue for regeneration. However, the mechanisms underlying these events and the nature of the cells involved are poorly understood. We used the injury‐induced upregulation of glial cell‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) expression as a tool to gain insights into these processes. We found that both myelinating and nonmyelinating Schwann cells are responsible for the dramatic increase in GDNF expression after injury. We also demonstrate that the GDNF upregulation is mediated by a signaling cascade involving activation of Schwann cell purinergic receptors, followed by protein kinase C signaling which activates protein kinase D (PKD), which leads to increased GDNF transcription. Given the potent effects of GDNF on survival and repair of injured peripheral neurons, we propose that targeting these pathways may yield therapeutic tools to treat peripheral nerve injury and neuropathies.
Sh3tc2 deficiency affects neuregulin‐1/ErbB signaling
Authors: Gouttenoire Estelle Arnaud , Lupo Vincenzo , Calpena Eduardo , Bartesaghi Luca , Schüpfer Fanny , Médard Jean‐Jacques , Maurer Fabienne , Beckmann Jacques S. , Senderek Jan , Palau Francesc , Espinós Carmen , Chrast Roman
Published: April 2013

Mutations in SH3TC2 trigger autosomal recessive demyelinating Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth type 4C (CMT4C) neuropathy. Sh3tc2 is specifically expressed in Schwann cells and is necessary for proper myelination of peripheral axons. In line with the early onset of neuropathy observed in patients with CMT4C, our analyses of the murine model of CMT4C revealed that the myelinating properties of Sh3tc2‐deficient Schwann cells are affected at an early stage. This early phenotype is associated with changes in the canonical Nrg1/ErbB pathway involved in control of myelination. We demonstrated that Sh3tc2 interacts with ErbB2 and plays a role in the regulation of ErbB2 intracellular trafficking from the plasma membrane upon Nrg1 activation. Interestingly, both the loss of Sh3tc2 function in mice and the pathological mutations present in CMT4C patients affect ErbB2 internalization, potentially altering its downstream intracellular signaling pathways. Altogether, our results indicate that the molecular mechanism for the axonal size sensing is disturbed in Sh3tc2‐deficient myelinating Schwann cells, thus providing a novel insight into the pathophysiology of CMT4C neuropathy.
Longitude dependences of Saturn's ultraviolet aurora
Authors: Carbary J. F.
Published: April 2013

Based on periodicities in the kilometric radio emissions, the Saturn Longitude System 4 (SLS4) was used to organize the far ultraviolet (120–150 nm) aurora observed by the Ultraviolet Imaging Spectrograph on the Cassini spacecraft. Individual Ultraviolet Imaging Spectrograph pixels were projected onto the ionosphere of Saturn, transformed into the SLS4 north and SLS4 south longitude systems, accumulated over all over auroral observations from 2007 to early 2009, and binned into 1°×1° bins of colatitude. The intensity of the northern aurora showed little variation in its SLS4 north system, but the intensity of the southern aurora exhibited an enhancement of over ~10 kR between ~140–280° SLS4 south longitude. This enhancement may represent the auroral signature of a southern ionospheric vortex proposed in MHD models of Saturn's magnetosphere to explain its periodicities. The loci of the northern intensity peaks and the 3 kR boundaries varied little over 360° of longitude, while the equatorward boundary of the southern aurora varied by ~5° in SLS4 south longitude, reaching its most equatorward location of ~23° colatitude between 100° and 180° longitude. The polygonal centroids of the aurora in both north and south were consistent with offsets of no more than ~1° in both hemispheres.
Prediction of short‐duration transient surface heat flux using various analytical techniques
Authors: Peetala Ravi K. , Sahoo Niranjan , Kulkarni Vinayak
Published: April 2013

Transient surface heat flux prediction, from temperature signals using one‐dimensional heat conduction modeling, is the major objective of present investigation. The techniques reported in the literature based on spline ﬁtting (linear and cubic) and least square polynomial ﬁtting of temperature data are evaluated for prediction of surface heat flux through various analytical modeling. In addition, a Laplace‐based technique is also incorporated here to predict surface heat flux where the least square polynomial ﬁtting technique is used to discretize the temperature data. The temperature time histories obtained from an in‐house built, one‐dimensional ﬁnite volume computation solver, and experiments (i.e., shock tunnel testing and flight data) are considered for the performance assessment of these methods. Heat flux recovery from all the methods for smooth temperature signals is seen to be in good agreement with a reasonable accuracy of ±5%. However, it has been noticed that the spline based ﬁtting techniques supersede the polynomial‐based ﬁtting techniques for prediction of heat flux from discontinuous or noisy temperature signals. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heat Trans Asian Res; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/htj). DOI 10.1002/htj.21050
Low‐level laser therapy can produce increased aggressiveness of dysplastic and oral cancer cell lines by modulation of Akt/mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Sperandio Felipe F. , Giudice Fernanda S. , Corrêa Luciana , Pinto Décio S. , Hamblin Michael R. , de Sousa Suzana C.O.M.
Published: April 2013

Low‐level laser therapy (LLLT) is a non‐thermal phototherapy used in several medical applications, including wound healing, reduction of pain and amelioration of oral mucositis. Nevertheless, the effects of LLLT upon cancer or dysplastic cells have been so far poorly studied. Head and neck cancer patients receiving LLLT for oral mucositis, for example, might have remaining tumor cells that could be stimulated by LLLT. This study demonstrated that LLLT (GaAlAs – 660 nm or 780 nm, 40 mW, 2.05, 3.07 or 6.15 J/cm2) can modify oral dysplastic cells (DOK) and oral cancer cells (SCC9 and SCC25) growth by modulating the Akt/mTOR/CyclinD1 signaling pathway; LLLT significantly modified the expression of proteins related to progression and invasion in all the cell lines, and could aggravate oral cancer cellular behavior, increasing the expression of pAkt, pS6 and Cyclin D1 proteins and producing an aggressive Hsp90 isoform. Apoptosis was detected for SCC25 and was related to pAkt levels. (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Nonviral gene transfer strategies to promote bone regeneration
Authors: Im Gun‐Il
Published: April 2013

Despite the inherent ability of bone to regenerate itself, there are a number of clinical situations in which complete bone regeneration fails to occur. In view of shortcomings of conventional treatment, gene therapy may have a place in cases of critical‐size bone loss that cannot be properly treated with current medical or surgical treatment. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of gene therapy in general, nonviral techniques of gene transfer including physical and chemical methods, RNA‐based therapy, therapeutic genes to be transferred for bone regeneration, route of application including ex vivo application, and direct gene therapy approaches to regenerate bone. ©2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 101A:3009‐3018, 2013.
Secretion of growth factors from macrophages when cultured with microparticles
Authors: Bhat Archana , Wooten R. Mark , Jayasuriya Ambalangodage Champa
Published: April 2013

The aim of this study is to investigate the influence of macrophages on osteoblast (OB) performance and differentiation. In this regard, we studied the secretion of growth factors including bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) from before and after activation of macrophages. We also evaluated osteogenic markers in the co‐culture of macrophages and OBs. The macrophages were seeded on microparticles (MPs) based on chitosan (CS). Two types of MPs were fabricated including CS MPs and 10% calcium phosphate (CaHPO4)‐incorporated CS MPs. Macrophage seeded on MPs was activated using lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The expression of BMP‐2, BMP‐6, BMP‐7, and transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β) from macrophages seeded and cultured on hybrid MPs before and after activation of LPS at predetermined times was quantified using a quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). All of the above growth factors were expressed from MP–macrophage cultures before LPS activation. Osteogenic markers such as alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteocalcin (OCN), and collagen I (COL‐I) in the cultures of MP–OB–macrophage were quantified using a quantitative RT‐PCR at days 2, 4, and 7. We found an elevation of gene expression of ALP and COL‐1 in the co‐cultures of OB–macrophage on MPs compared to OB on MP cultures. These data suggest that macrophages enhance expression of osteogenic markers in OBs, and demonstrate the importance of the role of macrophages in bone regeneration. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 101A: 3170–3180, 2013.
Surface projections of titanium substrates increase antithrombotic endothelial function in response to shear stress
Authors: Jantzen Alexandra E. , Achneck Hardean E. , Truskey George A.
Published: April 2013

Despite the therapeutic benefits of both mechanical circulatory assist devices and nitinol stents with titanium (Ti) outer surfaces, problems remain with thrombosis at the blood‐contacting surface. Covering these surfaces with a layer of endothelium would mimic the native lining of the cardiovascular system, potentially decreasing thrombotic complications. Since surface topography is known to affect the phenotype of a seeded cell layer and since stents and ventricular assist devices exhibit surface protrusions, we tested the hypothesis that endothelial cells (ECs) have altered function on Ti surfaces with protrusions of 1.25, 3, and 5 μm height, compared with smooth Ti surfaces. ECs and nuclei were more aligned and ECs were more elongated on all patterned surfaces. Cell area was reduced on the 3 and 5 μm features. Expression of eNOS and COX2 was not altered by patterned surfaces, but expression of KLF‐2 was higher on 1.25 and 5 μm features. Nitric oxide production following exposure to flow was higher on the 5 μm features. These results show that some antithrombogenic functions of ECs are significantly enhanced for ECs cultured on surface protrusions, and no functions are diminished, informing the future design of implant surfaces for endothelialization. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 101A: 3181–3191, 2013.
New concept for a regenerative and resorbable prosthesis for tendon and ligament: Physicochemical and biological characterization of PLA‐braided biomaterial
Authors: Araque‐Monrós María C. , Gamboa‐Martínez Tatiana C. , Santos Luis Gil , Bernabé Sagrario Gironés , Pradas Manuel Monleón , Estellés Jorge Más
Published: April 2013

We present a concept for a new regenerative and resorbable prosthesis for tendon and ligament and characterize the physicomechanical and biological behavior of one of its components, a hollow braid made of poly‐lactide acid (PLA) which is the load‐bearing part of the prosthesis concept. The prosthesis consists of a braid, microparticles in its interior serving as cell carriers, and a surface non‐adherent coating, all these parts being made of biodegradable materials. The PLA braid has a nonlinear convex stress–strain behavior with a Young modulus of 1370 ± 90 MPa in the linear, stretched state, and after 12 months of hydrolytic degradation the modulus shows a reduction by a factor of four. Different disinfection methods were tested as to their efficiency in cleansing the braid and preparing it for cell culture. Fibroblasts of L929 line were grown on the PLA braid for 14 days, showing good adherence and proliferation. These studies validate the PLA braid for the intended purpose in the regenerative prosthesis concept. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 101A: 3228–3237, 2013.
Cardiac oxidative damage in mice following exposure to nanoparticulate titanium dioxide
Authors: Sheng Lei , Wang Xiaochun , Sang Xuezi , Ze Yuguan , Zhao Xiaoyang , Liu Dong , Gui Suxin , Sun Qingqing , Cheng Jie , Cheng Zhe , Hu Renping , Wang Ling , Hong Fashui
Published: April 2013

Nanoparticulate titanium dioxide (nano‐TiO2) is a widely used powerful nanoparticulate material with high stability, anticorrosion, and photocatalytic property. However, it is possible that during nano‐TiO2 exposure, there may be negative effects on cardiovascular system in intoxicated mice. The present study was therefore undertaken to determine nano‐TiO2‐induced oxidative stress and to determine whether nano‐TiO2 intoxication alters the antioxidant system in the mouse heart exposed to 2.5, 5, and 10 mg/kg body weight nano‐TiO2 for 90 consecutive days. The findings showed that long‐term exposure to nano‐TiO2 resulted in obvious titanium accumulation in heart, in turn led to sparse cardiac muscle fibers, inflammatory response, cell necrosis, and cardiac biochemical dysfunction. Nano‐TiO2 exposure promoted remarkably reactive oxygen species production such as superoxide radicals, hydrogen peroxide, and increased malondialdehyde, carbonyl and 8‐OHdG levels as degradation products of lipid, protein, and DNA peroxidation in heart. Furthermore, nano‐TiO2 exposure attenuated the activities of antioxidative enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase, ascorbate peroxidase, glutathione reductase, glutathione‐S‐transferase, and levels of antioxidants including ascorbic acid, glutathione, and thiol in heart. Therefore, TiO2 NPs exposure may impair cardiovascular system in mice, and attention should be aroused on the application of nano‐TiO2 and their potential long‐term exposure effects especially on human beings. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 101A: 3238–3246, 2013.
Impaired bone formation and increased osteoclastogenesis in mice lacking chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 5 (Ccl5)
Authors: Wintges Kristofer , Beil F Timo , Albers Joachim , Jeschke Anke , Schweizer Michaela , Claass Benjamin , Tiegs Gisa , Amling Michael , Schinke Thorsten
Published: April 2013

Chemokines play crucial roles in the recruitment of specific hematopoietic cell types, and some of them have been suggested to be involved in the regulation of bone remodeling. Because we have previously observed that chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (Ccl2) and Ccl5 are direct target genes of noncanonical Wnt signaling in osteoblasts, we analyzed the skeletal phenotypes of Ccl2-deficient and Ccl5-deficient mice. In line with previous studies, Ccl2-deficient mice display a moderate reduction of osteoclastogenesis at the age of 6 months. In contrast, 6-month-old Ccl5-deficient mice display osteopenia associated with decreased bone formation and increased osteoclastogenesis. Moreover, unlike in wild-type and Ccl2-deficient mice, large areas of their trabecular and endocortical bone surfaces are not covered by osteoblasts or bone-lining cells, and this is associated with a severe reduction of endosteal bone formation. Although this phenotype diminishes with age, it is important that we could further identify a reduced number of osteal macrophages in 6-month-old Ccl5-deficient mice, because this cell type has previously been reported to promote endosteal bone formation. Because Ccl5-deficient mice also display increased osteoclastogenesis, we finally addressed the question of whether osteal macrophages could differentiate into osteoclasts and/or secrete inhibitors of osteoclastogenesis. For that purpose we isolated these cells by CD11b affinity purification from calvarial cultures and characterized them ex vivo. Here we found that they are unable to differentiate into osteoblasts or osteoclasts, but that their conditioned medium mediates an antiosteoclastogenic effect, possibly caused by interleukin-18 (IL-18), an inhibitor of osteoclastogenesis expressed by osteal macrophages. Taken together, our data provide in vivo evidence supporting the previously suggested role of Ccl5 in bone remodeling. Moreover, to the best of our knowledge, Ccl5-deficient mice represent the first model with a spontaneous partial deficiency of osteal macrophages, a recently identified cell type, whose impact on bone remodeling is just beginning to be understood. © 2013 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Bone remodeling is regulated by inner ear vestibular signals
Authors: Vignaux Guillaume , Besnard Stéphane , Ndong Jean , Philoxène Bruno , Denise Pierre , Elefteriou Florent
Published: April 2013

Bone remodeling allows the conservation of normal bone mass despite constant changes in internal and external environments. The adaptation of the skeleton to these various stimuli leads credence to the notion that bone remodeling is a true homeostatic function, and as such is under the control of specific centers in the central nervous system (CNS). Hypothalamic and brainstem centers, as well as the sympathetic nervous system (SNS), have been identified as regulators of bone remodeling. However, the nature of the afferent CNS stimuli that may modulate CNS centers involved in the control of bone remodeling, with the exception of leptin, remains unclear. Based on the partial efficacy of exercise and mechanical stimulation regimens to prevent microgravity-induced bone loss and the known alterations in vestibular functions associated with space flights, we hypothesized that inner ear vestibular signals may contribute to the regulation of bone remodeling. Using an established model of bilateral vestibular lesions and microtomographic and histomorphometric bone analyses, we show here that induction of bilateral vestibular lesion in rats generates significant bone loss, which is restricted to weight-bearing bones and associated with a significant reduction in bone formation, as observed in rats under microgravity conditions. Importantly, this bone loss was not associated with reduced locomotor activity or metabolic abnormalities, was accompanied with molecular signs of increased sympathetic outflow, and could be prevented by the β-blocker propranolol. Collectively, these data suggest that the homeostatic process of bone remodeling has a vestibulosympathetic regulatory component and that vestibular system pathologies might be accompanied by bone fragility. © 2013 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
An analysis of skeletal development in osteoblast-specific and chondrocyte-specific runt-related transcription factor-2 (Runx2) knockout mice
Authors: Takarada Takeshi , Hinoi Eiichi , Nakazato Ryota , Ochi Hiroki , Xu Cheng , Tsuchikane Azusa , Takeda Shu , Karsenty Gerard , Abe Takaya , Kiyonari Hiroshi , Yoneda Yukio
Published: April 2013

Global gene deletion studies in mice and humans have established the pivotal role of runt related transcription factor-2 (Runx2) in both intramembranous and endochondral ossification processes during skeletogenesis. In this study, we for the first time generated mice carrying a conditional Runx2 allele with exon 4, which encodes the Runt domain, flanked by loxP sites. These mice were crossed with α1(I)-collagen-Cre or α1(II)-collagen-Cre transgenic mice to obtain osteoblast-specific or chondrocyte-specific Runx2 deficient mice, respectively. As seen in Runx2−/− mice, perinatal lethality was observed in α1(II)-Cre;Runx2flox/flox mice, but this was not the case in animals in which α1(I)-collagen-Cre was used to delete Runx2. When using double-staining with Alizarin red for mineralized matrix and Alcian blue for cartilaginous matrix, we observed previously that mineralization was totally absent at embryonic day 15.5 (E15.5) throughout the body in Runx2−/− mice, but was found in areas undergoing intramembranous ossification such as skull and clavicles in α1(II)-Cre;Runx2flox/flox mice. In newborn α1(II)-Cre;Runx2flox/flox mice, mineralization impairment was restricted to skeletal areas undergoing endochondral ossification including long bones and vertebrae. In contrast, no apparent skeletal abnormalities were seen in mutant embryo, newborn, and 3-week-old to 6-week old-mice in which Runx2 had been deleted with the α1(I)-collagen-Cre driver. These results suggest that Runx2 is absolutely required for endochondral ossification during embryonic and postnatal skeletogenesis, but that disrupting its expression in already committed osteoblasts as achieved here with the α1(I)-collagen-Cre driver does not affect overtly intramembranous and endochondral ossification. The Runx2 floxed allele established here is undoubtedly useful for investigating the role of Runx2 in particular cells. © 2013 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
An RNA-seq protocol to identify mRNA expression changes in mouse diaphyseal bone: Applications in mice with bone property alteringLrp5mutations
Authors: Ayturk Ugur M , Jacobsen Christina M , Christodoulou Danos C , Gorham Joshua , Seidman Jonathan G , Seidman Christine E , Robling Alexander G , Warman Matthew L
Published: April 2013

Loss-of-function and certain missense mutations in the Wnt coreceptor low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 5 (LRP5) significantly decrease or increase bone mass, respectively. These human skeletal phenotypes have been recapitulated in mice harboring Lrp5 knockout and knock-in mutations. We hypothesized that measuring mRNA expression in diaphyseal bone from mice with Lrp5 wild-type (Lrp5+/+), knockout (Lrp5–/–), and high bone mass (HBM)-causing (Lrp5p.A214V/+) knock-in alleles could identify genes and pathways that regulate or are regulated by LRP5 activity. We performed RNA-seq on pairs of tibial diaphyseal bones from four 16-week-old mice with each of the aforementioned genotypes. We then evaluated different methods for controlling for contaminating nonskeletal tissue (ie, blood, bone marrow, and skeletal muscle) in our data. These methods included predigestion of diaphyseal bone with collagenase and separate transcriptional profiling of blood, skeletal muscle, and bone marrow. We found that collagenase digestion reduced contamination, but also altered gene expression in the remaining cells. In contrast, in silico filtering of the diaphyseal bone RNA-seq data for highly expressed blood, skeletal muscle, and bone marrow transcripts significantly increased the correlation between RNA-seq data from an animal's right and left tibias and from animals with the same Lrp5 genotype. We conclude that reliable and reproducible RNA-seq data can be obtained from mouse diaphyseal bone and that lack of LRP5 has a more pronounced effect on gene expression than the HBM-causing LRP5 missense mutation. We identified 84 differentially expressed protein-coding transcripts between LRP5 “sufficient” (ie, Lrp5+/+ and Lrp5p.A214V/+) and “insufficient” (Lrp5–/–) diaphyseal bone, and far fewer differentially expressed genes between Lrp5p.A214V/+ and Lrp5+/+ diaphyseal bone. © 2013 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Skeletal health in long-duration astronauts: Nature, assessment, and management recommendations from the NASA bone summit
Authors: Orwoll Eric S , Adler Robert A , Amin Shreyasee , Binkley Neil , Lewiecki E Michael , Petak Steven M , Shapses Sue A , Sinaki Mehrsheed , Watts Nelson B , Sibonga Jean D
Published: April 2013

Concern about the risk of bone loss in astronauts as a result of prolonged exposure to microgravity prompted the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to convene a Bone Summit with a panel of experts at the Johnson Space Center to review the medical data and research evidence from astronauts who have had prolonged exposure to spaceflight. Data were reviewed from 35 astronauts who had served on spaceflight missions lasting between 120 and 180 days with attention focused on astronauts who (1) were repeat fliers on long-duration missions, (2) were users of an advanced resistive exercise device (ARED), (3) were scanned by quantitative computed tomography (QCT) at the hip, (4) had hip bone strength estimated by finite element modeling, or (5) had lost >10% of areal bone mineral density (aBMD) at the hip or lumbar spine as measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Because of the limitations of DXA in describing the effects of spaceflight on bone strength, the panel recommended that the U.S. space program use QCT and finite element modeling to further study the unique effects of spaceflight (and recovery) on bone health in order to better inform clinical decisions.
Electrochemical Behaviors of Glucose Oxidase Based on Biocatalytic Deposition of Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: He Yaping , Zheng Jianbin
Published: April 2013

Coupling nanotechnology with biocatalysis, a highly sensitive glucose biosensor for the study of electrochemical behaviors of glucose oxidase (GOx) was proposed by using monkshoodvine root–bark like carbon (MLC) as the platform for the biocatalytic deposition of AuNPs. The biosensor showed a linear range from 0.25 to 130 μM with a detection limit of 0.1 μM (S/N = 3) towards glucose and sensitivity of 3010 μA/mM. K value was calculated to be 67.4 μM. Furthermore, the proposed AuNPs/GOx–MLC modified pyrolytic graphite electrode (AuNPs/GOx–MLC/PGE) achieved direct electron transfer of GOx. Γ* was calculated to be 2.79 × 10−11 mol/cm2 and ks was 1.79 s−1. It also showed a remarkable electrocatalysis towards glucose.
An Expedient Stereoselective Synthesis of Spirocyclopropyl Oxindoles from Indolin‐2‐One/N‐Protected Indolin‐2‐Ones and Bromonitroalkenes
Authors: Roy Suparna , Chen Kwunmin
Published: April 2013

A direct and much simpler way was developed for the diastereoselective synthesis of spiro cyclopropan‐1,3′‐oxindoles from indolin‐2‐one/N‐protected indolin‐2‐ones and bromonitroalkene. The fused restrained cyclopropanes were obtained with high diastereomeric ratios (upto >99:1) and in reasonable to high isolated chemical yields (upto 94%).
A higher‐order method for determining quasi‐brittle tensile fracture parameters governing the release of slab avalanches and a new tool for in situ indexing
Authors: Borstad C. P. , McClung D. M.
Published: April 2013

The tensile fracture of heterogeneous earth materials such as snow, ice, and rocks can be characterized by two fracture parameters—the fracture toughness and the fracture process zone length. The latter length scale characterizes the zone of microcracking surrounding a crack tip in a heterogeneous material. For alpine snow, these two fracture parameters influence the release dimensions and thus destructive potential of slab avalanches. In general, it is difficult to determine these parameters concurrently, and most experimental methods are based on first‐order scaling laws that have considerable errors unless very large test specimens are used. Here we introduce a simple experimental method based on a higher‐order quasi‐brittle scaling law that has never been applied to snow nor any other geophysical material. We conducted hundreds of beam bending experiments using natural cohesive snow samples to produce the most comprehensive measurements to date of the tensile fracture toughness and effective process zone length of snow. We also adopt a new penetration resistance gauge to index the fracture toughness data, addressing a longstanding need for better proxy measurements to characterize snow structure. The peak penetration resistance met by a thin blade proved better than the bulk snow density for predicting fracture toughness, a finding that will improve field predictions and facilitate comparisons of results across studies. The tensile fracture process zone, previously a highly uncertain length scale related to avalanche fractures, is shown to be about 5–10 times the snow grain size, implying nonlinear fracture scaling for the majority of avalanches.
Synthesis of 2‐Amino 3‐Substituted Quinazolin‐4(3H)‐one Derivatives via Iodine‐Mediated Guanidinylation of Pbf‐Activated Thiourea
Authors: Li Jizhen , Mi Yuhua , He Jianghua , Luo Xuyang , Fan Erkang
Published: April 2013

2‐Amino 3‐substituted‐quinazolin‐4(3H)‐one derivatives were synthesized from Pbf‐isothiocyanate and methyl anthranilate. The construction of the guanidine‐containing quinazolinone heterocyclic skeleton was achieved using Pbf‐activated thiourea treated with primary amines via iodine‐mediated guanidinylation. The desired compounds were obtained after Pbf cleavage by trifluoroacetic acid.
Solvent‐Specific C―N Bond Formation: Synthesis of Novel Ninhydrin–Creatinine Heterocyclic Condensation Products
Authors: Penthala Narsimha Reddy , Yerramreddy Thirupathi Reddy , Parkin Sean , Crooks Peter A.
Published: April 2013

Novel ninhydrin–creatinine heterocyclic condensation products (3–5) were synthesized under different solvent conditions. The compound 2‐(2‐amino‐1‐methyl‐4‐oxo‐4,5‐dihydro‐1H‐imidazol‐5‐yl)‐2‐hydroxy‐1H‐ind‐ene‐1,3(2H)‐dione (3) was formed by reacting ninhydrin (1) with creatinine (2) in the presence of sodium acetate in acetic acid. The same reactants afforded the zwitterionic compound4when the reaction was carried out in water, and a novel oxadiazine ring system (product5) was generated when benzene was used as solvent.
Straightforward preparation of labeled potassium cyanate by ozonation and application to the synthesis of [13C] or [14C]ureidocarboxylic acids
Authors: Loreau Olivier , Marlière Philippe
Published: April 2013

The development of new efficient syntheses of labeled reagents is a great challenge. Avoidance of overcomplicated procedures, availability and cost of starting materials are important considerations in choosing the synthetic route. In this report, we describe a facile and rapid preparation of labeled cyanate by ozonation of cyanide, a basic precursor. The crude cyanate was used without purification for the synthesis of various [13C] or [14C]ureidocarboxylic acids (20‐68% yield from potassium cyanide). According to these results, cyanide ozonation may prove to be a promising alternative to traditional preparations of labeled cyanate.
Live cell fluorescence imaging for early expression and localization of RIB1 and RIB3 genes in Ashbya gossypii
Authors: Sengupta Sudeshna , Kaufmann Andreas , T. S. Chandra
Published: April 2013

Ashbya gossypii is a riboflavin overproducing filamentous fungus. RIB1 and RIB3 genes encode GTP‐cyclohydrolase II (GCH II) and DHBP synthase, respectively, the two rate limiting enzymes of the riboflavin biosynthetic pathway. The genes encoding yeast enhanced green fluorescent protein (yEGFP) and mCherry were fused with RIB1 and RIB3 genes, under their native promoters by PCR‐based gene tagging method for their early in vivo expression and cellular localization in A. gossypii. In the integrative transformants, the fusion proteins were expressed as cytoplasmic proteins from the germ bubble stage, in all the cells throughout the hypha. This was evident from the observation that mCherry fusion proteins were seen outside the vacuoles in the cytoplasm. The older matured cells of 14 h hyphae developed large vacuoles which showed green autofluorescence due to riboflavin. It is concluded that RIB1 and RIB3 genes are constitutively expressed in all the cells of this multicellular multinucleate fungus.
Identification of differentially expressed genes involved in laccase production in tropical white‐rot fungus Polyporus sp. PG15
Authors: Wang Jie , Zheng Xiaobing , Lin Shuoxin , Lin Junfang , Guo Liqiong , Chen Xiaoyang , Chen Qianting
Published: April 2013

Carbon sources and copper ion are the main influencing factors on the production of fungal laccase. To investigate the regulation of carbon source and copper ion in laccase production on the molecular level in tropical white‐rot fungus PG15, a comparative analysis of gene expression patterns was performed by cDNA‐amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) technique. Selective amplifications with 120 primer combinations allowed the identification of 92 differentially expressed transcript‐derived fragments (TDFs), ranging from 200 to 750 bp in size. The TDFs were from PG15 supplemented with different carbon sources and copper ion concentrations, majority of which downregulated laccase production. Twenty‐one fragments that matched the database were functionally annotated and analyzed according to the up‐ and downregulation patterns identified by cDNA‐AFLP. These fragments were probably involved in laccase production at the metabolism, signal transduction, transcription, or post‐translation levels. This study provides the first catalog of genes involved in laccase production, together with their putatively functional annotations. These data provide potential candidates for improving laccase production in fungi by marker‐assisted selection or genetic engineering.
PCR detection of ansA from marine bacteria and its sequence characteristics from Bacillus tequilensis NIOS4
Authors: Nayak Sagar , Porob Seema , Fernandes Areena , Meena Ram Murti , Ramaiah Nagappa
Published: April 2013

As many as 71 marine bacterial DNA extracts were PCR screened for L‐asparaginase (ansA), a key gene in anti‐cancer molecular‐searches. Over 62% (44) of them were positive for ansA gene. The positive cultures were from genera Bacillus and Staphylococcus. The ansA gene cloned from isolate NIOS4 belonging to recently described Bacillus tequilensis is 1099 bp in length with a 990 bp ORF coding for 329 amino acids. BLASTx analysis revealed this sequence to be 98% similar to earlier reported ansA sequence from B. subtilis (Accession no. NP390239.1). By comparing its deduced amino acid sequence with other bacterial asparaginase sequences six substitutions at positions 305(Thr), 313(Lys), 314(Leu), 315(Asp), 318(Arg), and 320(Gln) are observed. Key residues like Thr(12), Thr(85), Asp(86), Lys(156), and Phe(165) taking part in active‐site formation and imparting catalytic properties are conserved. The phylogenetic tree based of the ansA amino acid sequences revealed close relatedness of the NIOS4 ansA sequence with B. subtilis (Accession no. NP 390239.1). It's very close genetic resemblance to B. subtilis and conservation of certain key amino acid residues suggest it as a prospective candidate for evaluation and, production of L‐asparaginases.
Compatible fungi, suitable medium, and appropriate developmental stage essential for stable association of Dendrobium chrysanthum
Authors: Hajong Subarna , Kumaria Suman , Tandon Pramod
Published: April 2013

Establishment of symbiotic association at the appropriate developmental stage helped maintain continued growth which is vital for the long‐term ex vitro survival of the orchid. In the present study, symbiotic association was carried out using different developmental stages of Dendrobium chrysanthum and pathogenic Rhizoctonia isolates (obtained from orchids and non‐orchid hosts) in different culture media. Isolate 2162 supported highest symbiotic germination on OMA‐S (oat meal agar medium without nutrients + sucrose), whereas, stable symbiotic association with plantlets was obtained with isolate 4634 on OMA‐NC (oat meal agar medium + cellulose). Isolate Dc‐2S2 obtained from the host plant did not promote seed germination nor did it form association with protocorms or plantlets. This study, for the first time identifies a combination of compatible fungal isolate, suitable culture medium, and appropriate developmental stage at which symbiotic association in vitro can be deemed successful for the medicinally important orchid, D. chrysanthum.
In situ antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of naturally occurring caffeic acid, p‐coumaric acid and rutin, using food systems
Authors: Stojković Dejan , Petrović Jovana , Soković Marina , Glamočlija Jasmina , Kukić‐Marković Jelena , Petrović Silvana
Published: April 2013

Background

Three pure compounds that naturally occur in plants were of particular interest to our study regarding the possibility of using them as food preservatives: p‐coumaric acid (found in peanuts, tomatoes, carrots, garlic, wine, vinegar, etc.), caffeic acid (found in argan oil, oats, wheat, rice and olive oil) and rutin (found in asparagus, citrus fruits, berries, apple, apricot, asparagus, beef and beer). In the following study we investigated in situ antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of three pure compounds, namely caffeic acid, p‐coumaric acid and rutin, naturally occurring in plants.

Results

Two food systems were used in order to obtain information on how these compounds react in actual food systems rather than microbiological media. The results indicated good antioxidant activity in in situ food systems. For tested phenolic compounds it was further shown that they successively inhibited the development of the isolated food contaminant Staphylococcus aureus in chicken soup. Panelist found that organoleptic characteristics of chicken soup and pork meat improved after treatment with phenolics.

Conclusion

Our findings alone, along with the potential use of phenolic compounds that are widespread in nature, may imply their potential use as preservatives in the food industry. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Structure analysis and antimutagenic activity of a novel salt‐soluble polysaccharide from Auricularia polytricha
Authors: Zhou Jie , Chen Yun , Xin Mengting , Luo Qinyao , Gu Jialu , Zhao Mengtian , Xu Xiaolan , Lu Xuanqi , Song Guanglei
Published: April 2013

Background

Auricularia polytricha is known to be a highly nutritious foodstuff. We report here the purification, structure characterization and antimutagenic activity in vivo of a 0.9% NaCl solution‐soluble polysaccharide (SSP) from the mycelia of A. polytricha.

Results

Analysis by high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to a TSK‐G5000PWXL column and gel filtration chromatography on Sephacryl S‐400 HR indicated that SSP is homogeneous with an average molecular weight of about 9.30 × 105 Da. The structure of SSP was revealed by chemical methods, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Results indicated that SSP is a glucan consisting of a1,3‐β‐glucan, 1,6‐α‐glucan, 1,4‐α‐glucan and 1,3‐α‐glucan backbone with a single 1,6‐α‐d‐glucopyranosyl side‐branching unit on every nine residues, on average, along the main chain. Atomic force microscopy indicates the presence of macromolecular species in morphology and shows a clear association of prolate particle. Meanwhile, SSP was found to significantly preventing micronuclei in polychromatic erythrocytes and reticulocytes of mice (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

These results indicate that polysaccharide SSP from A. polytricha exhibits antimutagenic activity against the in vivo DNA‐damaging effect of the indirectly acting alkylating agent cyclophosphamide.© 2013 Society of Chemical Industry