bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Critical roles for mTORC2- and rapamycin-insensitive mTORC1-complexes in growth and survival of BCR-ABL-expressing leukemic cells
Authors: Carayol Nathalie , Vakana Eliza , Sassano Antonella , Kaur Surinder , Goussetis Dennis J. , Glaser Heather , Druker Brian J. , Donato Nicholas J. , Altman Jessica K. , Barr Sharon , Platanias Leonidas C.
Published: June 2010

mTOR-generated signals play critical roles in growth of leukemic cells by controlling mRNA translation of genes that promote mitogenic responses. Despite extensive work on the functional relevance of rapamycin-sensitive mTORC1 complexes, much less is known on the roles of rapamycin-insensitive (RI) complexes, including mTORC2 and RI-mTORC1, in BCR-ABL-leukemogenesis. We provide evidence for the presence of mTORC2 complexes in BCR-ABL-transformed cells and identify phosphorylation of 4E-BP1 on Thr37/46 and Ser65 as RI-mTORC1 signals in primary chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) cells. Our studies establish that a unique dual mTORC2/mTORC1 inhibitor, OSI-027, induces potent suppressive effects on primitive leukemic progenitors from CML patients and generates antileukemic responses in cells expressing the T315I-BCR-ABL mutation, which is refractory to all BCR-ABL kinase inhibitors currently in clinical use. Induction of apoptosis by OSI-027 appears to negatively correlate with induction of autophagy in some types of BCR-ABL transformed cells, as shown by the induction of autophagy during OSI-027-treatment and the potentiation of apoptosis by concomitant inhibition of such autophagy. Altogether, our studies establish critical roles for mTORC2 and RI-mTORC1 complexes in survival and growth of BCR-ABL cells and suggest that dual therapeutic targeting of such complexes may provide an approach to overcome leukemic cell resistance in CML and Ph+ ALL.
Chemical genetic strategy identifies histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) and HDAC2 as therapeutic targets in sickle cell disease
Authors: Bradner James E. , Mak Raymond , Tanguturi Shyam K. , Mazitschek Ralph , Haggarty Stephen J. , Ross Kenneth , Chang Cindy Y. , Bosco Jocelyn , West Nathan , Morse Elizabeth , Lin Katherine , Shen John Paul , Kwiatkowski Nicholas P. , Gheldof Nele , Dekker Job , DeAngelo Daniel J. , Carr Steven A. , Schreiber Stuart L. , Golub Todd R. , Ebert Benjamin L.
Published: June 2010

The worldwide burden of sickle cell disease is enormous, with over 200,000 infants born with the disease each year in Africa alone. Induction of fetal hemoglobin is a validated strategy to improve symptoms and complications of this disease. The development of targeted therapies has been limited by the absence of discrete druggable targets. We developed a unique bead-based strategy for the identification of inducers of fetal hemoglobin transcripts in primary human erythroid cells. A small-molecule screen of bioactive compounds identified remarkable class-associated activity among histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors. Using a chemical genetic strategy combining focused libraries of biased chemical probes and reverse genetics by RNA interference, we have identified HDAC1 and HDAC2 as molecular targets mediating fetal hemoglobin induction. Our findings suggest the potential of isoform-selective inhibitors of HDAC1 and HDAC2 for the treatment of sickle cell disease.
Nicotinic pharmacophore: The pyridine N of nicotine and carbonyl of acetylcholine hydrogen bond across a subunit interface to a backbone NH
Authors: Blum Angela P. , Lester Henry A. , Dougherty Dennis A.
Published: June 2010

Pharmacophore models for nicotinic agonists have been proposed for four decades. Central to these models is the presence of a cationic nitrogen and a hydrogen bond acceptor. It is now well-established that the cationic center makes an important cation-π interaction to a conserved tryptophan, but the donor to the proposed hydrogen bond acceptor has been more challenging to identify. A structure of nicotine bound to the acetylcholine binding protein predicted that the binding partner of the pharmacophore’s second component was a water molecule, which also hydrogen bonds to the backbone of the complementary subunit of the receptors. Here we use unnatural amino acid mutagenesis coupled with agonist analogs to examine whether such a hydrogen bond is functionally significant in the α4β2 neuronal nAChR, the receptor most associated with nicotine addiction. We find evidence for the hydrogen bond with the agonists nicotine, acetylcholine, carbamylcholine, and epibatidine. These data represent a completed nicotinic pharmacophore and offer insight into the design of new therapeutic agents that selectively target these receptors.
Mechanisms and implications of transcription blockage by guanine-rich DNA sequences
Authors: Belotserkovskii Boris P. , Liu Richard , Tornaletti Silvia , Krasilnikova Maria M. , Mirkin Sergei M. , Hanawalt Philip C.
Published: June 2010

Various DNA sequences that interfere with transcription due to their unusual structural properties have been implicated in the regulation of gene expression and with genomic instability. An important example is sequences containing G-rich homopurine-homopyrimidine stretches, for which unusual transcriptional behavior is implicated in regulation of immunogenesis and in other processes such as genomic translocations and telomere function. To elucidate the mechanism of the effect of these sequences on transcription we have studied T7 RNA polymerase transcription of G-rich sequences in vitro. We have shown that these sequences produce significant transcription blockage in an orientation-, length- and supercoiling-dependent manner. Based upon the effects of various sequence modifications, solution conditions, and ribonucleotide substitutions, we conclude that transcription blockage is due to formation of unusually stable RNA/DNA hybrids, which could be further exacerbated by triplex formation. These structures are likely responsible for transcription-dependent replication blockage by G-rich sequences in vivo.
Drosophila
polypyrimidine tract-binding protein is necessary for spermatid individualization
Authors: Robida Mark , Sridharan Vinod , Morgan Sheridan , Rao Timsi , Singh Ravinder
Published: June 2010

Although mammalian polypyrimidine tract-binding (PTB) protein functions in most or all cell types to regulate a wide spectrum of transcripts,
Drosophila PTB
encodes an abundant male germline-specific mRNA isoform (dmPTB) whose expression correlates with male fertility. The biological function of this isoform is unknown. Using selection–amplification, we show that mammalian and
Drosophila
PTB have similar RNA sequence preference, suggesting that cell-specific expression rather than unique RNA-binding properties account for the sex-specific function of dmPTB. We also show that the dmPTB protein isoform expressed in the male germline is by far the most abundant isoform, and reduction of its levels correlates with male sterility. Finally, we show that dmPTB expression is necessary for proper spermatid individualization, the terminal step necessary for production of motile sperm. Loss of dmPTB results in severe disruption of the actin cones of the spermatid individualization complex. This represents a cytological defect resulting from PTB loss. We discuss the basis for functional differences between mammalian and
Drosophila
PTB orthologs.
Influence of Magnetic Field on the Peristaltic Flow of a Viscous Fluid through a Finite‐Length Cylindrical Tube
Authors: Pandey S. K. , Tripathi Dharmendra
Published: June 2010

The paper presents an analytical investigation of the peristaltic transport of a viscous fluid under the influence of a magnetic field through a tube of finite length in a dimensionless form. The expressions of pressure gradient, volume flow rate, average volume flow rate and local wall shear stress have been obtained. The effects of the transverse magnetic field and electrical conductivity (i.e. the Hartmann number) on the mechanical efficiency of a peristaltic pump have also been studied. The reflux phenomenon is also investigated. It is concluded, on the basis of the pressure distribution along the tubular length and pumping efficiency, that if the transverse magnetic field and the electric conductivity increase, the pumping machinery exerts more pressure for pushing the fluid forward. There is a linear relation between the averaged flow rate and the pressure applied across one wavelength that can restrain the flow due to peristalsis. It is found that there is a particular value of the averaged flow rate corresponding to a particular pressure that does not depend on the Hartmann number. Naming these values ‘critical values’, it is concluded that the pressure required for checking the flow increases with the Hartmann number above the critical value and decreases with it below the critical value. It is also inferred that magneto‐hydrodynamic parameters make the fluid more prone to flow reversal. The conclusion applied to oesophageal swallowing reveals that normal water is easier to swallow than saline water. The latter is more prone to flow reversal. A significant difference between the propagation of the integral and non‐integral number of waves along the tube is that pressure peaks are identical in the former and different in the latter cases.
Curriculum reform in a globalised world: the discourses of cosmopolitanism and community
Authors: Camicia Steven P. , Franklin Barry M.
Published: June 2010

Under conditions of globalisation, the discourse of cosmopolitanism adds a new dimension to analysis of curriculum reform. We examine the meanings and contentions of curriculum as a regulatory function in rapidly changing, global communities. We examine cosmopolitanism and curriculum
through the lenses of two cosmopolitan discourses, neoliberal and democratic. This provides a theoretically complex snapshot of how the discourse of cosmopolitanism reflects different ideologies concerning community and curriculum reform. We support and conclude with a curriculum proposal
promoting a democratic cosmopolitan discourse that is culturally responsive, democratic, and socially just in the face of neoliberal globalisation.
Identification of an immediate Foxp3− precursor to Foxp3+ regulatory T cells in peripheral lymphoid organs of nonmanipulated mice
Authors: Schallenberg Sonja , Tsai Pei-Yun , Riewaldt Julia , Kretschmer Karsten
Published: June 2010

CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells (T reg cells) expressing the transcription factor Foxp3 can be induced from peripheral T cell receptor (TCR) transgenic CD4+CD25−Foxp3− T cells stimulated with noninflammatory dendritic cells presenting low amounts of agonist cognate antigen. However, limited evidence exists for extra-thymic T reg cell generation from non-TCR transgenic T cells in unmanipulated mice. We compared events early during agonist-driven generation of Foxp3+ TCR transgenic T cells to polyclonal CD4+ T cell populations in unmanipulated mice. We identified an interleukin-2– and phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase–dependent precommitted Foxp3− precursor to Foxp3+ T reg cells in peripheral lymphoid organs. Transforming growth factor β signaling played a minor role in the generation and subsequent differentiation of these T reg precursor cells.
Chlorhexidine Use in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: Results from a National Survey
Authors: Tamma Pranita D. , Aucott Susan W. , Milstone Aaron M.
Published: June 2010

Infection prevention guidelines do not endorse Chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) use in neonates who are less than 2 months old. A survey of US neonatology program directors revealed that most neonatal intensive care units use CHG, often with some restrictions. Prospective studies are needed to further address concerns regarding the safety of CHG in patients in the neonatal intensive care unit.
Spatiotemporally resolved Ar (1s5) metastable measurements in a streamer-like He/Ar atmospheric pressure plasma jet
Authors: Sands Brian L , Leiweke Robert J , Ganguly Biswa N
Published: June 2010

We have applied diode laser absorption spectroscopy to measure the line-integrated Ar (1s5) metastable column density in a streamer-like atmospheric pressure plasma jet with a 5% Ar to He gas flow driven by a 20 ns rise time, positive unipolar voltage pulse. The stability of this source enabled us to isolate Ar (1s5) production separately from the streamer head, a region of enhanced production near the anode, and renewed production in the residual streamer channel, which continued up to 1 µs after the discharge was initiated. Over the first 4 mm from the capillary tip, Ar (1s5) production was dominated by processes occurring behind the streamer head with a combined column density as high as 1012 cm−2. Where the residual streamer channel production was significant, the Ar (1s5) column density remained > 1011 cm−2 up to 10 µs after the discharge was initiated. This timescale is significantly longer than has been reported to date of He (23
S
1) measured in a pure He plasma jet and Ar (1s5) in a pure Ar plasma jet using different configurations. The longer effective lifetime of Ar (1s5) in the He/Ar plasma jet significantly extended the timescale for afterglow plasma chemistry.
Thin films of the Heusler alloys Cu2MnAl and Co2MnSi: recovery of ferromagnetism via solid-state crystallization from the x-ray amorphous state
Authors: Erb Denise , Nowak Gregor , Westerholt Kurt , Zabel Hartmut
Published: June 2010

X-ray amorphous thin films of the Heusler alloys Cu2MnAl and Co2MnSi have been prepared by magnetron sputter deposition at room temperature. In the amorphous state the Cu2MnAl phase is non-ferromagnetic; Co2MnSi is weakly ferromagnetic with a ferromagnetic Curie temperature of 170 K. By solid-state crystallization at high temperatures strong ferromagnetic order and high Curie temperatures are established in both alloys. The saturation magnetization of the Co2MnSi alloy reaches 5.1μB/f.u. at 4 K, corresponding to 100% of the theoretical value; for Cu2MnAl we obtain 2.8μB/f.u. at 4 K, which corresponds to 87.5% of the theoretical value. In samples of the Co2MnSi phase with optimum saturation magnetization Bragg reflections as indicators of a long-range chemical order are missing, whereas for the Cu2MnAl phase Bragg reflections confirm epitaxial quality and long-range L21 order.
Magnetic and magnetoelectric properties of as-deposited and annealed BaTiO3–CoFe2O4 nanocomposite thin films
Authors: Bai Feiming , Zhang Huaiwu , Li Jiefang , Viehland D
Published: June 2010

The magnetic and magnetoelectric (ME) properties of as-deposited and annealed BaTiO3–CoFe2O4 nanocomposite films with CoFe2O4 (CFO) nano-rods embedded in a BaTiO3 matrix have been studied and compared. The BaTiO3 phase in the as-deposited film changed from (0 0 1) preferred orientation to (1 0 0) orientation after annealing at 950 °C for 2 h. In the meantime, the magnetization increased dramatically from 200 to 380 emu cm−3. Distinct changes in magnetic contrast of the CFO nano-rods were observed by magnetic force microscopy under application of an electric field to the composite film. ME voltage coefficient as large as 4.9 × 10−9 s m−1 or 1.2 V Oe−1 cm−1 was estimated for the annealed film under 10 MV m−1, although the value was much lower for the as-deposited film. It is shown that higher ME effects can be found in films with good phase homogeneity, poly-domains and unrelaxed stress.
Broadband coupling transducers for magneto-inductive cables
Authors: Syms R R A , Solymar L , Young I R
Published: June 2010

A broadband resonant transducer capable of low-loss coupling between magneto-inductive (MI) waveguides and a real impedance is introduced. The transducer is an L–C circuit resonating at the resonant frequency of the elements forming the guide. However, the values of the components in the transducer are different, and chosen to obtain two separate nulls in reflection so that low reflection is obtained over a wide spectral range. The transducer can be incorporated into the MI waveguide itself, allowing a connection between a MI cable and a conventional system to be made as a simple splice. The design is confirmed using 2 m length of low-loss thin-film MI cables formed using copper-clad polyimide and operating near 100 MHz frequency.
Propane dissociation in a non-thermal high-pressure nitrogen plasma
Authors: Moreau N , Pasquiers S , Blin-Simiand N , Magne L , Jorand F , Postel C , Vacher J-R
Published: June 2010

The removal and the conversion processes of propane in N2/C3H8 mixtures (concentration of hydrocarbon molecules up to 5500 ppm) energized by a photo-triggered discharge (homogeneous plasma) are studied at 460 mbar total pressure, both experimentally and theoretically. A self-consistent 0D discharge and kinetic model is used to interpret chromatographic measurements of propane and some by-products' concentrations (hydrogen and hydrocarbons with two or three carbon atoms). It is suggested, from the comparison between measurements and model predictions, that quenching processes of nitrogen metastable states by C3H8 lead to the dissociation of the hydrocarbon molecule, and are the most important processes for the removal of propane. Such a result is obtained using the quenching coefficient value previously determined by Callear and Wood (1971 Trans. Faraday Soc.
67 272) for the
state, whereas the coefficient for collisions of the singlet states with C3H8 is estimated to be 3.0 × 10−10 cm3 s−1 in order to explain the measured propane disappearance in the N2/C3H8 mixture excited by the photo-triggered discharge. The hydrogen molecule is the measured most populated by-product and, also from the comparison between experimental results and model predictions, the most probable dissociation products of propane appear to be H2 and C3H6. The propene molecule is also efficiently dissociated by the quenching processes of N2 states, and probably leads to the production of hydrogen atoms and methyl radicals with equivalent probabilities. The kinetic model predicts that the carbon atom is distributed amongst numerous molecules, including HCN, CH4, C2H2, C2H4, C2H6 and C3H6.
Apparent vanishing of ferroelectricity in nanostructured BiScO3–PbTiO3
Authors: Amorín H , Jiménez R , Ricote J , Hungría T , Castro A , Algueró M
Published: June 2010

Nanostructured ceramics of high-temperature piezoelectric 0.375BiScO3–0.625PbTiO3 were prepared by spark plasma sintering of nanocrystalline powders obtained by mechanosynthesis. The macroscopic electrical properties were characterized on dense ceramics with decreasing average grain size down to 28 nm. Results indicate that the electric field is screened by the electrically insulating grain boundaries at the nanoscale, which needs to be considered when discussing size effects in ferroelectric polycrystalline materials. Moreover, the requirement of increasingly large electric fields to achieve a given polarization with the decrease in the grain size, together with the depletion of the dielectric anomaly associated with the ferroelectric transition until its disappearance, seems to be the result of grain boundary effects.
Alloy-fluctuation-induced exciton localization in high-Mg-content (0.27 ⩽ x ⩽ 0.55) wurtzite MgxZn1−xO epilayers
Authors: Liu Z L , Mei Z X , Wang R , Zhao J M , Liang H L , Guo Y , Kuznetsov A Yu , Du X L
Published: June 2010

Stokes shifts and near-band emission in high-Mg-content single-phase wurtzite Mg
x
Zn1−x
O (0.27 ⩽ x ⩽ 0.55) epilayers were investigated by photoluminescence (PL) and photoluminescence excitation combining laser and synchrotron excitation experiments. The observed Stokes shifts (e.g. 365 meV for the sample containing 55% Mg) as well as the ‘S-shaped’ temperature dependence of the maximum PL emissions were explained in terms of Mg compositional fluctuations in our sample resulting in exciton localization in potential traps and, consequently, suppression of non-radiative recombination making high-Mg-content MgZnO a good candidate for optical applications.
The Rsr1/Bud1 GTPase Interacts with Itself and the Cdc42 GTPase during Bud-Site Selection and Polarity Establishment in Budding Yeast
Authors: Kang Pil Jung , Béven Laure , Hariharan Seethalakshmi , Park Hay-Oak
Published: June 2010

Cell polarization occurs along a single axis that is generally determined in response to spatial cues. In budding yeast, the Rsr1 GTPase and its regulators direct the establishment of cell polarity at the proper cortical location in response to cell type–specific cues. Here we use a combination of in vivo and in vitro approaches to understand how Rsr1 polarization is established. We find that Rsr1 associates with itself in a spatially and temporally controlled manner. The homotypic interaction and localization of Rsr1 to the mother-bud neck and to the subsequent division site are dependent on its GDP-GTP exchange factor Bud5. Analyses of rsr1 mutants suggest that Bud5 recruits Rsr1 to these sites and promotes the homodimer formation. Rsr1 also exhibits heterotypic interaction with the Cdc42 GTPase in vivo. We show that the polybasic region of Rsr1 is necessary for the efficient homotypic and heterotypic interactions, selection of a proper growth site, and polarity establishment. Our findings thus suggest that dimerization of GTPases may be an efficient mechanism to set up cellular asymmetry.
Rhizobium rosettiformans sp. nov., isolated from a hexachlorocyclohexane dump site, and reclassification of Blastobacter aggregatus Hirsch and Müller 1986 as Rhizobium aggregatum comb. nov.
Authors: Kaur Jaspreet , Verma Mansi , Lal Rup
Published: June 2010

A Gram-negative, rod-shaped, motile, aerobic bacterial strain, W3T, was isolated from hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH)-contaminated groundwater from Lucknow, India, and its taxonomic position was determined using a polyphasic approach. Strain W3Tshared highest 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity of 97.8 % withRhizobium selenitireducensB1T, followed byRhizobium daejeonenseL61T(97.7 %),Rhizobium radiobacterATCC 19358T(97.5 %) andBlastobacter aggregatusIFAM 1003T(97.2 %). Strain W3Tformed a monophyletic clade withBlastobacter aggregatusIFAM 1003T( = DSM 1111T) in the cluster of species of the genusRhizobium. Phylogenetic analyses of strain W3TusingatpDandrecAgene sequences confirmed the phylogenetic arrangements obtained by using 16S rRNA gene sequences. Hence, the taxonomic characterization ofB. aggregatusDSM 1111Twas also undertaken. Strains W3TandB. aggregatusDSM 1111Tcontained summed feature 8 (18 : 1ω7cand/or 18 : 1ω6c; 65.4 and 70.8 %, respectively) as the major fatty acid, characteristic of the genusRhizobium. DNA–DNA relatedness of strain W3TwithRhizobium selenitireducensLMG 24075T,Rhizobium daejeonenseDSM 17795T,Rhizobium radiobacterDSM 30147TandB. aggregatusDSM 1111Twas 42, 34, 30 and 34 %, respectively. The DNA G+C contents of strain W3TandB. aggregatusDSM 1111Twere 62.3 and 62.7 mol%, respectively. AnifHgene encoding dinitrogenase reductase was detected in strain W3Tbut not inB. aggregatusDSM 1111T. Based on the results obtained by phylogenetic and chemotaxonomic analyses, phenotypic characterization and DNA–DNA hybridization, it is concluded that strain W3Trepresents a novel species of the genusRhizobium, for which the nameRhizobium rosettiformanssp. nov. is proposed (type strain W3T = CCM 7583T = MTCC 9454T). It is also proposed thatBlastobacter aggregatusHirsch and Müller 1986 be transferred to the genusRhizobiumasRhizobium aggregatumcomb. nov. (type strain IFAM 1003T = DSM 1111T = ATCC 43293T).
Nevskia terrae sp. nov., isolated from soil
Authors: Kim Soo-Jin , Weon Hang-Yeon , Kim Yi-Seul , Park In-Cheol , Son Jung-A , Kwon Soon-Wo
Published: June 2010

A Gram-negative bacterium, designated KIS13-15T, was isolated from soil in Korea. Cells were strictly aerobic rods and were motile with 1–3 subpolar flagella. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis revealed that strain KIS13-15T belonged to the order Xanthomonadales of the class Gammaproteobacteria and was closely related to Nevskia soli GR15-1T (97.9 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity) and Nevskia ramosa Soe1T (96.8 %). Strain KIS13-15T exhibited 38 and 29 % DNA–DNA relatedness with N. soli KACC 11703T and N. ramosa DSM 11499T, respectively. The major fatty acids (>10 % of the total) were C18 : 1ω7c (40.6 %) and C16 : 0 (12.4 %). The major isoprenoid quinone was ubiquinone 8. DNA G+C content was 67.3 mol%. The phenotypic characterization combined with 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis and DNA–DNA hybridization clearly classified strain KIS13-15T in a novel species of the genus Nevskia, for which the name Nevskia terrae sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is KIS13-15T ( = KACC 12736T  = JCM 15425T).
Bacillus luteolus sp. nov., a halotolerant bacterium isolated from a salt field
Authors: Shi Rong , Yin Min , Tang Shu-Kun , Lee Jae-Chan , Park Dong-Jin , Zhang Yun-Jiao , Kim Chang-Jin , Li Wen-Jun
Published: June 2010

A novel Gram-stain-positive, motile, strictly aerobic bacterium, designated YIM 93174T, was isolated from a salt field in Korea. Cells of this strain were rod-shaped and formed pale tangerine colonies and grew at pH 6.0–8.0 (optimal growth at pH 7.0), at 15–45 °C (optimum 28–37 °C) and at salinities of 0–10 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum 0–2 % NaCl). Some phenotypic characters allowed differentiation of strain YIM 93174T from its nearest phylogenetic relatives. Comparative 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis showed that strain YIM 93174T belongs to the genus Bacillus, exhibiting the highest level of sequence similarity with the type strain of Bacillus humi (95.7 %), followed by those of Bacillus alkalitelluris (94.9 %) and Bacillus litoralis (94.5 %). The major fatty acids were iso-C15 : 0, anteiso-C15 : 0 and iso-C16 : 0. The cell-wall peptidoglycan was of the A1γ type, containing meso-diaminopimelic acid as the diagnostic diamino acid. The genomic DNA G+C content was 36.9 mol% and the predominant respiratory quinone was MK-7. The major polar lipids of strain YIM 93174T were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylinositol mannoside and two unknown phospholipids. On the basis of the evidence from this polyphasic study, strain YIM 93174T represents a novel species of the genus Bacillus, for which the name Bacillus luteolus sp. nov. is proposed, with YIM 93174T ( = DSM 22388T  = KCTC 13210T  = CCTCC AA 208068T) as the type strain.
Alcanivorax pacificus sp. nov., isolated from a deep-sea pyrene-degrading consortium
Authors: Lai Qiliang , Wang Liping , Liu Yuhui , Fu Yuanyuan , Zhong Huanzi , Wang Baojiang , Chen Liang , Wang Jianning , Sun Fengqin , Shao Zongze
Published: June 2010

A taxonomic study was carried out on a novel bacterial strain, designated W11-5T, which was isolated from a pyrene-degrading consortium enriched from deep-sea sediment of the Pacific Ocean. The isolate was Gram-reaction-negative and oxidase- and catalase-positive. Growth was observed in 0.5–12 % (w/v) NaCl and at 10–42 °C. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, strain W11-5T was shown to belong to the genus Alcanivorax with a close relation to A. dieselolei B-5T (93.9 % 16S rRNA sequence similarity), A. balearicus MACL04T (93.1 %), A. hongdengensis A-11-3T (93.1 %), A. borkumensis SK2T (93.0 %), A. venustensis ISO4T (93.0 %) and A. jadensis T9T (92.9 %). Similarities between the gyrB gene sequences of W11-5T and other species of the genus Alcanivorax were between 76.8 and 80.8 %. The principal fatty acids were C12 : 0 3-OH (8.0 %), C16 : 0 (29.1 %) and C18 : 1ω7c (27.4 %). The G+C content of the chromosomal DNA was 60.8 mol%. Based on its morphology, physiology and fatty acid composition as well as the results of 16S rRNA and gyrB gene sequence analyses, strain W11-5T ( = MCCC 1A00474T  = CCTCC AB 208236T  = LMG 25514T) represents a novel species of the genus Alcanivorax, for which the name Alcanivorax pacificus sp. nov. is proposed.
Cosmetics: They Influence More Than Caucasian Female Facial Attractiveness
Authors: Nash Rebecca , Fieldman George , Hussey Trevor , Lévêque Jean‐Luc , Pineau Patricia
Published: June 2010

The study explored whether 4 Caucasian women would be evaluated differently on 4 social measures depending on whether they were presented with or without makeup. Participants—152 men and 171 women—were split into 2 groups and were presented with the women's facial photographs either with or without cosmetics. Women presented wearing cosmetics were perceived as healthier and more confident than when presented without. Participants also awarded women wearing makeup with a greater earning potential and with more prestigious jobs than the same women without cosmetics. The results suggest that women can successfully employ cosmetics to manipulate how they are assessed, which may be advantageous in social situations where women may be judged on their appearance, such as job interviews.
Epstein Barr virus inhibits the stimulatory effect of TLR7/8 and TLR9 agonists but not CD40 ligand in human B lymphocytes
Authors: Younesi Vahid , Nikzamir Haleh , Yousefi Mehdi , Khoshnoodi Jalal , Arjmand Mohammd , Rabbani Hodjatallah , Shokri Fazel
Published: June 2010

Viruses and other microorganisms express specific pathogen‐associated molecular patterns that are recognized by cell surface or endosome‐associated Toll‐like receptors (TLR). There are many examples of viruses that have developed strategies to modulate TLR signaling through the use of viral or cellular molecules. Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) has recently been found to display a complex interaction with TLR. The aim of this study was to asses the effect of EBV infection on proliferative capacity of TLR7/8 and 9 agonist and CD40 ligand (CD40L) in normal B lymphocytes. Our results demonstrate that EBV induces a significant inhibition in proliferative response to TLR7/8 (P < 0.004) and TLR9 (P < 0.000) agonists but not to CD40L stimulation in enriched human normal B lymphocytes. Similar inhibitory effect was also observed in B lymphocytes prestimulated with the TLR agonists, implying that the suppressive effect is not due to downregulation of TLR protein expression by EBV. EBV infection did not induce apoptosis and did not downregulate TLR7/8 mRNA expression in B lymphocytes. Our results suggest that EBV might be able to evade the immune system by modulation of the TLR signaling pathway.
Moxibustion activates host defense against herpes simplex virus type I through augmentation of cytokine production
Authors: Takayama Yuko , Itoi Manami , Hamahashi Takashi , Tsukamoto Noriyuki , Mori Kazuya , Morishita Daisuke , Wada Kumiko , Amagai Takashi
Published: June 2010

Moxibustion is a technique used in traditional oriental medicine, the aim of which is to cure and/or prevent illness by activating a person's ability for self‐healing. In this study, we assessed how moxibustion would affect the immune system and whether it would augment protective immunity. Mice were treated with moxibustion at Zusanli (ST36) acupoints; we analyzed mortality and cytokine activity in sera after infection with herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV‐1), and cytokine gene expression in the skin and the spleen without a virus challenge. Our study demonstrates that pretreatment of BALB/c mice with moxibustion resulted in a marked increase in the survival rate after infection with lethal doses of HSV‐1, and elevated serum levels of IL‐1β and IFN‐γ on days 1 and 6 post‐infection with HSV‐1. Semi‐quantitative RT‐PCR assay showed that moxibustion treatment augmented the expression of IL‐1α, IL‐1β, IL‐6, universal‐IFN‐α, MIP‐1α, and TNF‐α mRNA in the skin, and IL‐1α, IL‐1β, IL‐12p40, IL‐15, u‐IFN‐α, MIP‐1α, and TNF‐α mRNA in the spleen. Moreover, moxibustion induces augmentation of natural killer cell activity. Collectively, our study demonstrates that moxibustion activates protective responses against HSV‐1 infection through the activation of cytokine production including IFN, and of NK cells.
Efficacy of probiotic Lactobacillus GG on allergic sensitization and asthma in infants at risk
Authors: Rose M. A. , Stieglitz F. , Köksal A. , Schubert R. , Schulze J. , Zielen S.
Published: June 2010

Background
Probiotics are perceived to exert beneficial effects in the prevention and treatment of allergic diseases.

Objective
There are conflicting data from studies as to an impact on allergic sensitization and asthma.

Methods
Our prospective double‐blind study randomly assigned 131 children (6–24 months old) with at least two wheezing episodes and a first‐degree family history of atopic disease to 6 months of Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LGG, 1010 colony forming units) or placebo. Atopic dermatitis and asthma‐related events (e.g. need of inhalation, symptom‐free days) were documented throughout the intervention and 6‐month follow‐up. We determined IgE, a representative panel of specific IgE, eosinophils, eosinophilic cationic protein, and TGF‐β before, at the end of intervention, and after 6 months of follow‐up.

Results
There were no significant differences as to atopic dermatitis or asthma‐related events. In a subgroup with antecedent allergic sensitizations, asthmatic complaints were even slightly worse. We found fewer sensitizations towards aeroallergens after 6 months of LGG (P=0.027) and after 6 months of follow‐up (P=0.03). Supplementation was well‐tolerated and no severe adverse events occurred.

Conclusions
In young children with recurrent wheeze and an atopic family history, oral LGG had no clinical effect on atopic dermatitis or asthma‐related events, and only mild effects on allergic sensitization. This effect persisted 6 months after the cessation of the supplementation.

Cite this as: M. A. Rose, F. Stieglitz, A. Köksal, R. Schubert, J. Schulze and S. Zielen, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2010 (40) 1398–1405.
Plant patch structure modifies parasitoid assemblage richness of a specialist herbivore
Authors: FENOGLIO MARÍA S. , SALVO ADRIANA , VIDELA MARTÍN , VALLADARES GRACIELA R.
Published: June 2010

1. The spatial structure of plant patches has been shown to affect host–parasitoid interactions, but its influence on parasitoid diversity remains largely ignored. Here we tested the prediction that parasitoid species richness of the specialist leafminerLiriomyza commelinaeincreases in larger and less isolated patches of its host plantCommelina erecta. We also explored whether parasitoid abundance and body size affected the occurrence of parasitoid species in local assemblages.

2. A total of 893 naturally establishedC. erectapatches were sampled on 18 sites around Córdoba city (Argentina). Also, two experiments were performed by creating patches differing in the number of plants and the distance from a parasitoid source. For these tests, plants were infected with the miner in the laboratory prior to placement in the field.

3. Plant patch size, independently of host abundance, positively affected the number of parasitoid species in both survey observations and experimental data. However, plant patch isolation did not influence parasitoid species richness.

4. The probability of finding rare parasitoid species increased with patch size, whereas occupation of isolated patches was independent of dispersal abilities (body size) of parasitoid species.

5. Overall, the results highlight the importance of considering spatial aspects such as the size of plant patches in the study of parasitoid communities.
Antigen‐specific IgG antibodies in feather duvet lung
Authors: Koschel Dirk , Lützkendorf Lars , Wiedemann Bärbel , Höffken Gert
Published: June 2010

Eur J Clin Invest 2010; 40 (9): 797–802

Background  Feather duvet lung (FDL) is a rare subgroup of bird fancier’s lung (BFL). We were interested in determining antigen‐specific IgG antibodies in patients with FDL and comparing them with those with BFL.

Material and methods  Specific IgG antibodies against goose and duck feathers, analysed with an automated fluorimetric enzyme immunoassay, were measured in healthy subjects (group A, n = 30), in patients with FDL (group B, n = 10) and with BFL (group C, n = 35); typical specific IgG antibodies of BFL in groups B and C.

Results  An optimal threshold value for antibodies against goose or duck feathers to differentiate patients with either BFL or FDL from healthy subjects was determined at 10·85 mg L−1 for goose feathers and at 8·81 mg L−1 for duck feathers, respectively. Specific IgG antibodies against goose feathers were significantly higher in group B compared with group C. A ratio of specific IgG antibodies against goose feathers and budgerigar antigens with a threshold value of 0·91 could discriminate between patients with FDL and BFL with a specificity of 97% and a sensitivity of 90%.

Conclusions  We were able to demonstrate the significant difference in IgG antibodies in patients with FDL and BFL and their contribution to discriminate between these similar kinds of extrinsic allergic alveolitis.
Insect herbivore mortality is increased by competition with a hemiparasitic plant
Authors: Bass Katherine A. , John Elizabeth A. , Ewald Naomi C. , Hartley Sue E.
Published: June 2010

1. Individual plants are often simultaneously consumed by many different organisms and mediate important indirect interactions between their consumers, even when their consumers are phylogenetically distant and feed on different parts of the plant.

2. We examined the effects on two xylem feeders of sharing a plant host in greenhouse pot trials and outdoor mesocosms. The spittle bug Neophilaenus lineatus, which feeds on grass shoots, and a hemiparasitic angiosperm, Rhinanthus minor, which attaches to the roots, were added separately or together on grass host plants growing in pots or in model grassland swards.

3. We found strong asymmetric competition between the hemiparasite and the insect. In greenhouse experiments, sharing a grass host with R. minor significantly increased mortality of N. lineatus, but R. minor performance was unaffected.

4. Mortality of N. lineatus was also increased on swards containing R. minor in model communities grown in the field. R. minor was more sensitive to sharing a host with N. lineatus in these communities, and experienced a modest (non‐significant) reduction in flower production.

5. The hemiparasite was the stronger competitor for xylem resources, possibly because of its ability to extract resources from the plant roots, and because of its significant ability to appropriate the xylem stream via its strong transpirational pull.

6. We believe these are the first experiments to demonstrate competition between insect herbivores and hemiparasitic plants mediated via a shared host plant. The consequences for the invertebrate population were potentially highly significant and we propose that future research should further explore the role of this asymmetric relationship in structuring invertebrate communities.
Assessment of focal mechanisms of microseismic events computed from two three‐component receivers: application to the Arkema‐Vauvert field (France)
Authors: Godano M. , Gaucher E. , Bardainne T. , Regnier M. , Deschamps A. , Valette M.
Published: June 2010

We have developed a method that enables computing double‐couple focal mechanisms with only a few sensors. This method is based on a non‐linear inversion of the P, Sv and Sh amplitudes of microseismic events recorded on a set of sensors. The information brought by the focal mechanism enables determining the geometry of the rupture on the associated geological structure. It also provides a better estimate of the conventional source parameters. Full analysis has been performed on a data set of 15 microseismic events recorded in the brine production field of Vauvert. The microseismic monitoring network consisted of two permanent tools and one temporary borehole string. The majority of the focal mechanisms computed from both permanent tools are similar to those computed from the whole network. This result indicates that the double‐couple focal mechanism determination is reliable for both permanent 3C receivers in this field.
High‐grading bias: subtle problems with assessing power of selected subsets of loci for population assignment
Authors: WAPLES ROBIN S.
Published: June 2010

Recognition of the importance of cross‐validation (‘any technique or instance of assessing how the results of a statistical analysis will generalize to an independent dataset’; Wiktionary, en.wiktionary.org) is one reason that the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission requires all investment products to carry some variation of the disclaimer, ‘Past performance is no guarantee of future results.’ Even a cursory examination of financial behaviour, however, demonstrates that this warning is regularly ignored, even by those who understand what an independent dataset is. In the natural sciences, an analogue to predicting future returns for an investment strategy is predicting power of a particular algorithm to perform with new data. Once again, the key to developing an unbiased assessment of future performance is through testing with independent data—that is, data that were in no way involved in developing the method in the first place. A ‘gold‐standard’ approach to cross‐validation is to divide the data into two parts, one used to develop the algorithm, the other used to test its performance. Because this approach substantially reduces the sample size that can be used in constructing the algorithm, researchers often try other variations of cross‐validation to accomplish the same ends. As illustrated by Anderson in this issue of Molecular Ecology Resources, however, not all attempts at cross‐validation produce the desired result. Anderson used simulated data to evaluate performance of several software programs designed to identify subsets of loci that can be effective for assigning individuals to population of origin based on multilocus genetic data. Such programs are likely to become increasingly popular as researchers seek ways to streamline routine analyses by focusing on small sets of loci that contain most of the desired signal. Anderson found that although some of the programs made an attempt at cross‐validation, all failed to meet the ‘gold standard’ of using truly independent data and therefore produced overly optimistic assessments of power of the selected set of loci—a phenomenon known as ‘high grading bias.’
Cryptic diversity and patterns of host specificity in trematode flatworms
Authors: HAYWARD ALEXANDER
Published: June 2010

The widespread utilization of molecular markers has revealed that a broad spectrum of taxa contain sets of morphologically cryptic, but genetically distinct lineages (Bickfordet al.2007). The identification of cryptic taxa is important as an accurate appreciation of diversity is crucial for a proper understanding of evolutionary and ecological processes. An example is the study of host specificity in parasitic taxa, where an apparent generalist may be found to contain a complex of several more specific species (Smithet al.2006). Host specificity is a key life history trait that varies greatly among parasites (Poulin & Keeney 2007). While some can exploit a wide range of hosts, others are confined to just a single species. Access to additional hosts increases the resources available to a parasite. However, physiological or ecological constraints can restrict the extension of host range. Furthermore, there may be a trade‐off between relaxed specificity and performance: generalism can decrease a parasites ability to adapt to each individual host species, and increase exposure to competition from other parasites (Poulin 1998). Despite the central role that host specificity plays in parasite life history, relatively little is known about how host range is determined in natural systems, and data from field studies are required to evaluate among competing ideas. In this issue, an exciting paper byLockeet al.(2010)makes a valuable contribution toward the understanding of host specificity in an important group of trematode flatworms. Using molecular methods, Lockeet al.reveal an almost four‐fold increase in the appreciated diversity of their focal group. In combination with a large and elegant sampling design this allows them to accurately assess host specificity for each taxon, and thus draw key insights into the factors that control host range in a dominant parasite group.
Palmoplantar nonpustular psoriasiform dermatitis in a rhesus macaque
Authors: Piedras María José G. M. , García‐Cabezas Miguel Ángel , Sendagorta Elena , Miró‐Murillo Marta , Cavada Carmen
Published: June 2010

A case of psoriasiform dermatitis in an adult male rhesus macaque is reported. Appearing spontaneously, the condition presented the clinical and histopathological features of human palmoplantar nonpustular psoriasis. The animal developed multiple scaly plaques on his palms and soles, as well as nail hyperkeratosis and widening of the nail root. Microscopically, the skin lesions showed epidermal hyperkeratosis with multifocal parakeratosis, neutrophil microabscesses in the stratum corneum, a loss of granule cell layer under the microabscesses, acanthosis, and elongation of the rete ridges; the superficial dermis showed a dense inflammatory infiltrate containing lymphocytes, macrophages and neutrophils, as well as dilated and tortuous blood vessels. The lesions improved for 15 days after intramuscular corticosteroid depot therapy and worsened slightly afterwards. Later, a spontaneous, progressive remission coincided with the beginning of spring and lasted until the end of summer; the skin lesions practically disappeared during this period, and the nails looked nearly normal. During the next autumn and winter only nail hyperkeratosis was present. Serum analyses showed hyperproteinaemia and hyperglobulinaemia during the outbreak phase and normal values during remission. The clinical and histopathological features of this case, as well as its evolution, are compared with the three other reported cases of psoriasiform skin lesions in nonhuman primates. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of a definite palmoplantar nonpustular psoriasiform dermatitis in a rhesus macaque.
Serum phosphate and calcium concentrations are associated with reduced patient survival following kidney transplantation
Authors: Moore Jason , Tomson Charles R.V. , Tessa Savage M. , Borrows Richard , Ferro Charles J.
Published: June 2010

Moore J, Tomson CRV, Tessa Savage M, Borrows R, Ferro CJ. Serum phosphate and calcium concentrations are associated with reduced patient survival following kidney transplantation. Clin Transplant 2011: 25: 406–416. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  The impact of disordered mineral and bone metabolism following kidney transplantation is not well defined. We studied the association of serum phosphate and calcium concentrations, and surrogate measures of arterial stiffness (augmentation index: AIx and Timing of the reflected wave: Tr), with long‐term kidney transplant recipient and allograft survival. Prevalent adult renal transplant patients (n = 270) were prospectively studied over a median 88‐month follow‐up. Detailed demographic, clinical and laboratory data, in addition to both peripheral and central non‐invasive blood pressure measurements, were recorded. Higher serum phosphate and calcium levels were associated with increased all‐cause mortality (HR: 1.21; 95% CI 1.09,1.35, p < 0.001 and HR: 1.22; 95% CI 1.01,1.48; p < 0.04, respectively; adjusted Cox model) and death‐uncensored graft loss (p < 0.001 and p = 0.03, respectively). In addition, serum calcium and phosphate were associated with death‐censored graft loss on univariable analysis (p < 0.001 and p = 0.02, respectively), but did not retain significance on multivariable analysis. AIx and Tr were not associated with mortality or graft loss on multivariable analysis. This is the first report to demonstrate that both higher serum phosphate and calcium levels are associated with increased mortality in kidney transplant recipients. It highlights the need for randomized trials assessing current interventions available for improving disordered mineral–bone metabolism post transplantation.