bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Case Report of Arcuate Uterus
Authors: Fatema K
Published: December 2011

A uterine malformation is the result of an abnormal development of the Mullerian duct(s) during embryogenesis. The arcuate uterus is a type of congenital uterine malformation where the uterine fundus displays a small midline indentation towards the uterine cavity. A 25 years old woman with history of two abortions was diagnosed as a case of arcuate uterus during her first caesarean section. With proper antenatal care and counseling she has been able to give birth to 2nd baby successfully. No correctable surgery was essential for her. The literature regarding the diagnosis, management, and reproductive outcomes for arcuate uterus is limited and conflicting. A woman with an arcuate uterus can carry a baby to full term pregnancy. However, this condition is associated with a higher risk for miscarriage and premature births. Arcuate uterus is usually managed similarly to septate uterus, and only selected patients who fulfill poor reproductive performance criteria are recommended for surgical correction. Key words: Arcuate uterus; Malformation; Mullerian duct. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/fmcj.v6i2.9213 FMCJ 2011; 6(2): 107-109
Reliability Assessment of Solder Joints in Power Electronic Modules by Crack Damage Model for Wind Turbine Applications
Authors: Kostandyan Erik E. , Sørensen John D.
Published: December 2011

Wind turbine reliability is an important issue for wind energy cost minimization, especially by reduction of operation and maintenance costs for critical components and by increasing wind turbine availability. To develop an optimal operation and maintenance plan for critical components, it is necessary to understand the physics of their failure and be able to develop reliability prediction models. Such a model is proposed in this paper for an IGBT power electronic module. IGBTs are critical components in wind turbine converter systems. These are multilayered devices where layers are soldered to each other and they operate at a thermal-power cycling environment. Temperature loadings affect the reliability of soldered joints by developing cracks and fatigue processes that eventually result in failure. Based on Miner’s rule a linear damage model that incorporates a crack development and propagation processes is discussed. A statistical analysis is performed for appropriate model parameter selection. Based on the proposed model, a layout for component life prediction with crack movement is described in details.
Identification of (−)(E)-N-[2(S)-Hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl) ethyl]ferulamide, a Natural Product Isolated from Croton Pullei: Theoretical and Experimental Analysis
Authors: Silva Silvana de O. , Peixoto Rosana N.S. , Silva José Rogério A. , Alves Cláudio N. , Guilhon Giselle M.S.P. , Santos Lourivaldo S. , Brasil Davi do S.B.
Published: December 2011

Ferulic acid (FA) and its derivatives (FADs) are known for a variety of biological activities, such as photo-protective agent, antioxidant, antiatherogenic and antiplasmodial activities. During structural definition of a FAD isolated from Croton pullei, the possibility of a heterologous series made this definition difficult. In this regard, computational simulations were performed using theoretical calculations at DFT level to predict Infrared (IR) and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) data. The IR and NMR 13C and 1H data were compared with the theoretical calculations performed for three structural possibilities of a heterologous series. The theoretical results were compared with the experimental data through linear regression in order to define the most probable structure and showed satisfactory values.
Ionic and Polyampholyte N-Isopropylacrylamide-Based Hydrogels Prepared in the Presence of Imprinting Ligands: Stimuli-Responsiveness and Adsorption/Release Properties
Authors: Lago Miguel A. , Grinberg Valerij Ya. , Burova Tatiana V. , Concheiro Angel , Alvarez-Lorenzo Carmen
Published: December 2011

The conformation of the imprinted pockets in stimulus-responsive networks can be notably altered when the stimulus causes a volume phase transition. Such a tunable affinity for the template molecule finds interesting applications in the biomedical and drug delivery fields. Nevertheless, the effect that the binding of the template causes on the stimuli-responsiveness of the network has barely been evaluated. In this work, the effect of two ionic drugs used as templates, namely propranolol hydrochloride and ibuprofen sodium, on the responsiveness of N-isopropylacrylamide-based hydrogels copolymerized with acrylic acid (AAc) and N-(3-aminopropyl) methacrylamide (APMA) and on their ability to rebind and to control the release of the template was evaluated. The degree of swelling and, in some cases, energetics (HS-DSC) of the transitions were monitored as a function of temperature, pH, and concentration of drug. Marked decrease in the transition temperature of the hydrogels, accompanied by notable changes in the transition width, was observed in physiological NaCl solutions and after the binding of the drug molecules, which reveals relevant changes in the domain structure of the hydrogels as the charged groups are shielded. The ability of the hydrogels to rebind propranolol or ibuprofen was quantified at both 4 and 37 °C and at two different drug concentrations, in the range of those that cause major changes in the network structure. Noticeable differences between hydrogels bearing AAc or APMA and between imprinted and non-imprinted networks were also observed during the release tests in NaCl solutions of various concentrations. Overall, the results obtained evidence the remarkable effect of the template molecules on the responsiveness of intelligent imprinted hydrogels.
Natural Products from the Lithistida: A Review of the Literature since 2000
Authors: Winder Priscilla L. , Pomponi Shirley A. , Wright Amy E.
Published: December 2011

Lithistid sponges are known to produce a diverse array of compounds ranging from polyketides, cyclic and linear peptides, alkaloids, pigments, lipids, and sterols. A majority of these structurally complex compounds have very potent and interesting biological activities. It has been a decade since a thorough review has been published that summarizes the literature on the natural products reported from this amazing sponge order. This review provides an update on the current taxonomic classification of the Lithistida, describes structures and biological activities of 131 new natural products, and discusses highlights from the total syntheses of 16 compounds from marine sponges of the Order Lithistida providing a compilation of the literature since the last review published in 2002.
Cembranoids from the Dongsha Atoll Soft Coral Lobophytum crassum
Authors: Lin Shih-Tseng , Wang Shang-Kwei , Duh Chang-Yih
Published: December 2011

Chemical investigation of the Dongsha Atoll soft coral Lobophytum crassum has afforded four new cembranoids, crassumols A–C (1–3) and 13-acetoxysarcophytoxide (4). The structures of these isolated compounds were elucidated by extensive NMR and HRESIMS experiments. The cytotoxicity and anti-HCMV (Human cytomegalovirus) activities of 1–4 were evaluated in vitro. Compound 4 exhibited cytotoxicity against A-549 (human lung carcinoma) cell line with an ED50 of 3.6 μg/mL.
Tetrodotoxin-Bupivacaine-Epinephrine Combinations for Prolonged Local Anesthesia
Authors: Berde Charles B. , Athiraman Umeshkumar , Yahalom Barak , Zurakowski David , Corfas Gabriel , Bognet Christina
Published: December 2011

Currently available local anesthetics have analgesic durations in humans generally less than 12 hours. Prolonged-duration local anesthetics will be useful for postoperative analgesia. Previous studies showed that in rats, combinations of tetrodotoxin (TTX) with bupivacaine had supra-additive effects on sciatic block durations. In those studies, epinephrine combined with TTX prolonged blocks more than 10-fold, while reducing systemic toxicity. TTX, formulated as Tectin, is in phase III clinical trials as an injectable systemic analgesic for chronic cancer pain. Here, we examine dose-duration relationships and sciatic nerve histology following local nerve blocks with combinations of Tectin with bupivacaine 0.25% (2.5 mg/mL) solutions, with or without epinephrine 5 µg/mL (1:200,000) in rats. Percutaneous sciatic blockade was performed in Sprague-Dawley rats, and intensity and duration of sensory blockade was tested blindly with different Tectin-bupivacaine-epinephrine combinations. Between-group comparisons were analyzed using ANOVA and post-hoc Sidak tests. Nerves were examined blindly for signs of injury. Blocks containing bupivacaine 0.25% with Tectin 10 µM and epinephrine 5 µg/mL were prolonged by roughly 3-fold compared to blocks with bupivacaine 0.25% plain (P < 0.001) or bupivacaine 0.25% with epinephrine 5 µg/mL (P < 0.001). Nerve histology was benign for all groups. Combinations of Tectin in bupivacaine 0.25% with epinephrine 5 µg/mL appear promising for prolonged duration of local anesthesia.
Impact Response of Aluminum Foam Sandwiches for Light-Weight Ship Structures
Authors: Crupi Vincenzo , Epasto Gabriella , Guglielmino Eugenio
Published: December 2011

The structures realized using sandwich technologies combine low weight with high energy absorbing capacity, so they are suitable for applications in the transport industry (automotive, aerospace, shipbuilding industry) where the “lightweight design” philosophy and the safety of vehicles are very important aspects. While sandwich structures with polymeric foams have been applied for many years, currently there is a considerable and growing interest in the use of sandwiches with aluminum foam core. The aim of this paper was the analysis of low-velocity impact response of AFS (aluminum foam sandwiches) panels and the investigation of their collapse modes. Low velocity impact tests were carried out by a drop test machine and a theoretical approach, based on the energy balance model, has been applied to investigate their impact behavior. The failure mode and the internal damage of the impacted AFS have also been investigated by a Computed Tomography (CT) system.
Formulation and in Vitro, ex Vivo and in Vivo Evaluation of Elastic Liposomes for Transdermal Delivery of Ketorolac Tromethamine
Authors: Nava Guadalupe , Piñón Elizabeth , Mendoza Luis , Mendoza Néstor , Quintanar David , Ganem Adriana
Published: December 2011

The objective of the current study was to formulate ketorolac tromethamine-loaded elastic liposomes and evaluate their in vitro drug release and their ex vivo and in vivo transdermal delivery. Ketorolac tromethamine (KT), which is a potent analgesic, was formulated in elastic liposomes using Tween 80 as an edge activator. The elastic vesicles were prepared by film hydration after optimizing the sonication time and number of extrusions. The vesicles exhibited an entrapment efficiency of 73 ± 11%, vesicle size of 127.8 ± 3.4 nm and a zeta potential of −12 mV. In vitro drug release was analyzed from liposomes and an aqueous solution, using Franz diffusion cells and a cellophane dialysis membrane with molecular weight cut-off of 8000 Da. Ex vivo permeation of KT across pig ear skin was studied using a Franz diffusion cell, with phosphate buffer (pH 7.4) at 32 °C as receptor solution. An in vivo drug permeation study was conducted on healthy human volunteers using a tape-stripping technique. The in vitro results showed (i) a delayed release when KT was included in elastic liposomes, compared to an aqueous solution of the drug; (ii) a flux of 0.278 mg/cm2h and a lag time of about 10 h for ex vivo permeation studies, which may indicate that KT remains in the skin (with the possibility of exerting a local effect) before reaching the receptor medium; (iii) a good correlation between the total amount permeated, the penetration distance (both determined by tape stripping) and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) measured during the in vivo permeation studies. Elastic liposomes have the potential to transport the drug through the skin, keep their size and drug charge, and release the drug into deep skin layers. Therefore, elastic liposomes hold promise for the effective topical delivery of KT.
CdTe and CdSe Quantum Dots Cytotoxicity: A Comparative Study on Microorganisms
Authors: Gomes Suzete A.O. , Vieira Cecilia Stahl , Almeida Diogo B. , Santos-Mallet Jacenir R. , Menna-Barreto Rubem F. S. , Cesar Carlos L. , Feder Denise
Published: December 2011

Quantum dots (QDs) are colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals of a few nanometers in diameter, being their size and shape controlled during the synthesis. They are synthesized from atoms of group II–VI or III–V of the periodic table, such as cadmium telluride (CdTe) or cadmium selenium (CdSe) forming nanoparticles with fluorescent characteristics superior to current fluorophores. The excellent optical characteristics of quantum dots make them applied widely in the field of life sciences. Cellular uptake of QDs, location and translocation as well as any biological consequence, such as cytotoxicity, stimulated a lot of scientific research in this area. Several studies pointed to the cytotoxic effect against micoorganisms. In this mini-review, we overviewed the synthesis and optical properties of QDs, and its advantages and bioapplications in the studies about microorganisms such as protozoa, bacteria, fungi and virus.
The Need and Potential of Biosensors to Detect Dioxins and Dioxin-Like Polychlorinated Biphenyls along the Milk, Eggs and Meat Food Chain
Authors: Chobtang Jeerasak , De Boer Imke J. M. , Hoogenboom Ron L. A. P. , Haasnoot Willem , Kijlstra Aize , Meerburg Bastiaan G.
Published: December 2011

Dioxins and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (DL-PCBs) are hazardous toxic, ubiquitous and persistent chemical compounds, which can enter the food chain and accumulate up to higher trophic levels. Their determination requires sophisticated methods, expensive facilities and instruments, well-trained personnel and expensive chemical reagents. Ideally, real-time monitoring using rapid detection methods should be applied to detect possible contamination along the food chain in order to prevent human exposure. Sensor technology may be promising in this respect. This review gives the state of the art for detecting possible contamination with dioxins and DL-PCBs along the food chain of animal-source foods. The main detection methods applied (i.e., high resolution gas-chromatography combined with high resolution mass-spectrometry (HRGC/HRMS) and the chemical activated luciferase gene expression method (CALUX bioassay)), each have their limitations. Biosensors for detecting dioxins and related compounds, although still under development, show potential to overcome these limitations. Immunosensors and biomimetic-based biosensors potentially offer increased selectivity and sensitivity for dioxin and DL-PCB detection, while whole cell-based biosensors present interpretable biological results. The main shortcoming of current biosensors, however, is their detection level: this may be insufficient as limits for dioxins and DL-PCBs for food and feedstuffs are in pg per gram level. In addition, these contaminants are normally present in fat, a difficult matrix for biosensor detection. Therefore, simple and efficient extraction and clean-up procedures are required which may enable biosensors to detect dioxins and DL-PCBs contamination along the food chain.
Predicted Effect of Direct Acting Antivirals in the Current HIV–HCV-Coinfected Population in Spain
Authors: Poveda Eva , Vispo Eugenia , Barreiro Pablo , de Mendoza Carmen , Labarga Pablo , Fernández-Montero José Vicente , Martin-Carbonero Luz , Soriano Vincent
Published: December 2011

Background

Direct acting antivirals (DAAs) against HCV are eagerly awaited for HIV–HCV-coinfected individuals. However, the activity of first generation drugs is limited to HCV genotype 1 and is lower in cirrhotics, subtype 1a infections, prior interferon (IFN)-α exposure or unfavourable IL28B alleles. Herein, we report the current profile of HIV–HCV-coinfected patients at our institution in an attempt to predict the effect of DAAs.

Methods

All HIV–HCV-coinfected patients seen at our HIV outpatient clinic in 2011 were identified. Information on serum HCV RNA, HCV genotype/subtype, plasma HIV RNA, prior IFN-α experience, liver fibrosis staging and IL28B alleles was recorded.

Results

A total of 424 HIV–HCV-coinfected patients were identified, of whom 174 (41%) were IFN-α-experienced. Mean serum HCV RNA was 6 log IU/ml. HCV genotype/ subtype distribution was 166 (39.1%) G1a, 93 (22%) G1b, 85 (20%) G4, 49 (11.5%) G3 and 1 (<1%) G2, and 30 (7%) were unclassified. Of note, 56% of G1a were prior IFN-α-experienced patients. Overall, 37% had advanced liver fibrosis (Metavir score estimates F3–F4). Finally, 70% harboured unfavourable IL28B alleles.

Conclusions

The current profile of HIV–HCV-coinfected patients in Spain is dominated by particularly difficult-to-treat individuals, such as those infected with G1a or G4 (59%), advanced liver fibrosis (37%) and unfavourable IL28B alleles (70%). A wide use of prior anti-HCV therapy in our region most likely has resulted in hepatitis C cure of more IFN-α susceptible individuals, with accumulation of a more refractory treatment population. Thus, the use of DAAs in HIV–HCV-coinfected patients will require particular expertise and their benefit might be lower than expected.
Observation of genotype C infected chronic hepatitis B patients in clinical practice
Authors: Aung Myo Nyein , Leowattana Wattana , Tangpukdee Noppadon , Kittitrakul Chatporn
Published: December 2011

Introduction: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotype C is prevalent in many areas of the world including Thailand and Southeast Asia. It is a strong risk for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by evidence. We aimed to describe the baseline clinical information of treatment naïve genotype C infected chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients and to describe the treatment response by surrogate outcome markers in genotype C infected CHB patients after one year of nucleos(t)ide analogues (NA) treatment Methodology:  Thirty-four genotype C CHB patients were studied at the Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Bangkok, including 12 patients treated with lamivudine, 11 with telbivudine, 8 with adefovir, and 3 with entecavir. Serum HBV DNA levels, serum alanine amino transferase ( ALT ) levels, HBeAg status, and alpha-feto protein (AFP) levels were recorded at the start and after twelve months of ongoing treatment. HBV genotyping was performed by line-probe assay. Results: About half of the patients (58.8%) were HBeAg positive. Mean HBV viral load was 6.53 + 1.15 log10 copies per ml at baseline and reduced to 3.63 + 1.3 log10 copies per ml after one year of NA treatment. Serum HBV DNA levels became undetectable in 47.1 % of the patients and serum ALT was normalized in 23.5 % of the patients. Conclusion: Most of the genotype C patients were aged above 40 years. More than half of the genotype C infected patients did not achieve virological response and biochemical remission. Among the CHB patients, genotype C infected patients are a high priority group for intervention.
Nitrostative stress status during seasonal and pdmH1N1 infection in Iraq
Authors: Al-Nimer Marwan S. M. , Mahmood Majid M , Khazaal Saba Saadoon
Published: December 2011

Introduction: Influenza A virus infection is associated with oxidative and nitrosative stress. This study aimed to assess nitrosative stress in pandemic H1N1 (pdmH1N1) and seasonal influenza A infected patients. Methodology: The study included the following subjects:  20 patients infected with seasonal (negative one-step probe RT-PCR) influenza and 12 patients infected with pdmH1N1 (positive, one-step probe RT-PCR) influenza during the 2009 pandemic in Iraq. Twenty healthy subjects served as controls. Serum nitric oxide using Greiss reagent and peroxynitrite were used to assess nitrosative stress status. Results: Serum nitric oxide and peroxynitrite are significantly increased in patients infected with seasonal and pdmH1N1 influenza compared with the levels in healthy subjects. Infected patients with seasonal influenza showed significantly higher numbers of serum nitrogen species than corresponding pdmH1N1 infected patients. The turnover process reflected by the peroxynitrite/nitric oxide ratio was 0.177, 0.313 and 0.214 in healthy subjects, seasonal and pdmH1N1infected patients respectively. Conclusions: Influenza A virus infection is associated with significant nitrosative stress activity which is more pronounced in seasonal than in pdmH1N1 infected patients. The determination of serum nitric oxide and peroxynitrite may serve as biochemical markers.
Nigeria’s dracunculiasis eradication triumph and the need for caution
Authors: Ojo Tokunbo B. , Ojo Kayode K
Published: December 2011

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Thymus × pseudogranatensis (Labiatae), a new hybrid from Sierra Nevada (Spain)
Authors: Vizoso María Teresa , Bruno Navarro Francisco , Lorite Juan
Published: December 2011

Thymus × pseudogranatensis Vizoso, F.B. Navarro & Lorite, a new spontaneous hybrid of Th. granatensis Boiss. subsp. granatensis and Th. zygis L. subsp. gracilis (Boiss.) R. Morales, collected in the dolomitic areas of Sierra Nevada (SE Spain), is described. Morphological characters of the new nothospecies are analysed and its distribution and ecology are discussed.
Effects of winding and straightening of medium and large diameter reinforcing bars manufactured in coils in their mechanical properties
Authors: Bairan J. M. , Marí A. R. , Ortega H. , Rosa J. C.
Published: December 2011

Reinforcing bars produced in coils offer important logistic and environmental advantages, for this reason there is a tendency to produce them in medium and larger diameters. Fabrication introduces complex load and temperature histories producing residual stresses. This paper presents an experimental and theoretical study of the incidence in the mechanical properties of reinforcing bars manufactured in coils, mainly in terms of ductility. Experimentation included phases of characterization of the core and crown regions of the bar, and comparison of straight bars and identical rolled bars straightened in laboratory conditions. Numerical study is based in a mixed-hardening constitutive model and allows considering the actual geometry of the bar as well as the high temperatures involved. The model identifies the origin and distribution of residual stresses and the main effects in the mechanical properties of the bars. Finally, recommendations are given regarding coil radius in order to control bar ductility.
Identification of Innate IL-5–Producing Cells and Their Role in Lung Eosinophil Regulation and Antitumor Immunity
Authors: Ikutani Masashi , Yanagibashi Tsutomu , Ogasawara Masaru , Tsuneyama Koichi , Yamamoto Seiji , Hattori Yuichi , Kouro Taku , Itakura Atsuko , Nagai Yoshinori , Takaki Satoshi , Takatsu Kiyoshi
Published: December 2011

IL-5 is involved in a number of immune responses such as helminth infection and allergy. IL-5 also plays roles in innate immunity by maintaining B-1 B cells and mucosal IgA production. However, the identity of IL-5–producing cells has not been unambiguously characterized. In this report, we describe the generation of an IL-5 reporter mouse and identify IL-5–producing non-T lymphoid cells that reside in the intestine, peritoneal cavity, and lungs in naive mice. They share many characteristics with natural helper cells, nuocytes, and Ih2 cells, including surface Ags and responsiveness to cytokines. However, these phenotypes do not completely overlap with any particular one of these cell types. Innate non-T IL-5–producing cells localized most abundantly in the lung and proliferated and upregulated IL-5 production in response to IL-25 and IL-33. IL-33 was more effective than IL-25. These cells contribute to maintaining sufficient numbers of lung eosinophils and are important for eosinophil recruitment mediated by IL-25 and IL-33. Given that eosinophils are shown to possess antitumor activity, we studied lung tumor metastasis and showed that innate IL-5–producing cells were increased in response to tumor invasion, and their regulation of eosinophils is critical to suppress tumor metastasis. Genetic blockade or neutralization of IL-5 impaired eosinophil recruitment into the lung and resulted in increased tumor metastasis. Conversely, exogenous IL-5 treatment resulted in suppressed tumor metastasis and augmented eosinophil infiltration. These newly identified innate IL-5–producing cells thus play a role in tumor surveillance through lung eosinophils and may contribute to development of novel immunotherapies for cancer.
Antigen-Specific Transfer of Functional Programmed Death Ligand 1 from Human APCs onto CD8+ T Cells via Trogocytosis
Authors: Gary Regina , Voelkl Simon , Palmisano Ralf , Ullrich Evelyn , Bosch Jacobus J. , Mackensen Andreas
Published: December 2011

Upon specific interaction with APCs, T cells capture membrane fragments and surface molecules in a process termed trogocytosis. In this study, we demonstrate that human Ag-specific CD8+ T cells acquire the coinhibitory molecule programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) from mature dendritic cells (mDC) and tumor cells in an Ag-specific manner. Immature dendritic cells were less effective in transferring surface molecules onto CD8+ T cells than mDCs. Interestingly, trogocytosis of PD-L1 requires cell–cell contact and cannot be induced by uptake of soluble proteins obtained from mDC lysates. The transfer process is impaired by inhibition of vacuolar ATPases in T cells as well as by fixation of dendritic cells. Of importance, CD8+ T cells that acquired PD-L1 complexes were able to induce apoptosis of neighboring programmed death 1–expressing CD8+ T cells. In summary, our data demonstrate that human CD8+ T cells take up functionally active PD-L1 from APCs in an Ag-specific fashion, leading to fratricide of programmed death 1–expressing, neighboring T cells. The transfer of functionally active coinhibitory molecules from APCs onto human CD8+ T cells could have a regulatory role in immune responses.
The Critical Role of Complement Alternative Pathway Regulator Factor H in Allergen-Induced Airway Hyperresponsiveness and Inflammation
Authors: Takeda Katsuyuki , Thurman Joshua M. , Tomlinson Stephen , Okamoto Masakazu , Shiraishi Yoshiki , Ferreira Viviana P. , Cortes Claudio , Pangburn Michael K. , Holers V. Michael , Gelfand Erwin W.
Published: December 2011

Activation of the alternative pathway of complement plays a critical role in the development of allergen-induced airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) and inflammation in mice. Endogenous factor H, a potent inhibitor of the alternative pathway, is increased in the airways of sensitized and challenged mice, but its role in regulating inflammation or AHR has been unknown. We found that blocking the tissue-binding function of factor H with a competitive antagonist increased complement activation and tissue inflammation after allergen challenge of sensitized mice. Conversely, administration of a fusion protein that contains the iC3b/C3d binding region of complement receptor 2 linked to the inhibitory region of factor H, a molecule directly targeting complement-activating surfaces, protected mice in both primary and secondary challenge models of AHR and lung inflammation. Thus, although endogenous factor H does play a role in limiting the development of AHR, strategies to deliver the complement-regulatory region of factor H specifically to the site of inflammation provide greater protection than that afforded by endogenous regulators. Such an agent may be an effective therapy for the treatment of asthma.
Recombinant MPT83 Derived fromMycobacterium tuberculosisInduces Cytokine Production and Upregulates the Function of Mouse Macrophages through TLR2
Authors: Chen Su-Ting , Li Jia-Yun , Zhang Yi , Gao Xiang , Cai Hong
Published: December 2011

TLR2 recognizes components of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and initiates APC activities that influence both innate and adaptive immunity. M. tuberculosis lipoproteins are an important class of TLR2 ligands. In this study, we focused on recombinant MPT83 (rMPT83) to determine its effects on mouse macrophages. We demonstrated that rMPT83 induced the production of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-12 p40 and that cytokine induction depended on activated MAPKs, because we observed the rapid phosphorylation of ERK1/2, p38, and JNK in macrophages. Additionally, neutralizing Abs against TLR2 significantly inhibited cytokine secretion and reduced or attenuated the rMPT83-induced activation of p38 and JNK in RAW264.7 cells, a mouse macrophage cell line. Furthermore, rMPT83-induced cytokine production was significantly lower in macrophages from TLR2−/− mice than in macrophages from wild-type mice. We further found that prolonged exposure (>24 h) of RAW264.7 cells or macrophages from wild-type and TLR2−/− mice to rMPT83 resulted in a significant enhancement of IFN-γ–induced MHC class II expression and an enhanced ability of macrophages to present the rMPT83 peptide to CD4+ T cells. These results indicated that rMPT83 is a TLR2 agonist that induces the production of cytokines by macrophages and upregulates macrophage function.
A Common Polymorphism in TLR3 Confers Natural Resistance to HIV-1 Infection
Authors: Sironi Manuela , Biasin Mara , Cagliani Rachele , Forni Diego , De Luca Mariacristina , Saulle Irma , Lo Caputo Sergio , Mazzotta Francesco , Macías Juan , Pineda Juan A. , Caruz Antonio , Clerici Mario
Published: December 2011

TLR3 recognizes dsRNA and activates antiviral immune responses through the production of inflammatory cytokines and type I IFNs. Genetic association studies have provided evidence concerning the role of a polymorphism in TLR3 (rs3775291, Leu412Phe) in viral infection susceptibility. We genotyped rs3775291 in a population of Spanish HIV-1–exposed seronegative (HESN) individuals who remain HIV seronegative despite repeated exposure through i.v. injection drug use (IDU-HESN individuals) as witnessed by their hepatitis C virus seropositivity. The frequency of individuals carrying at least one 412Phe allele was significantly higher in IDU-HESN individuals compared with that of a matched control sample (odds ratio for a dominant model = 1.87; 95% confidence interval, 1.06–3.34; p = 0.023). To replicate this finding, we analyzed a cohort of Italian, sexually HESN individuals. Similar results were obtained: the frequency of individuals carrying at least one 412Phe allele was significantly higher compared with that of a matched control sample (odds ratio, 1.79; 95% confidence interval, 1.05–3.08; p = 0.029). In vitro infection assays showed that in PBMCs carrying the 412Phe allele, HIV-1Ba-L replication was significantly reduced (p = 0.025) compared with that of Leu/Leu homozygous samples and was associated with a higher expression of factors suggestive of a state of immune activation (IL-6, CCL3, CD69). Similarly, stimulation of PBMCs with a TLR3 agonist indicated that the presence of the 412Phe allele results in a significantly increased expression of CD69 and higher production of proinflammatory cytokines including IL-6 and CCL3. The data of this study indicate that a common TLR3 allele confers immunologically mediated protection from HIV-1 and suggest the potential use of TLR3 triggering in HIV-1 immunotherapy.
Leukotriene E4 Activates Human Th2 Cells for Exaggerated Proinflammatory Cytokine Production in Response to Prostaglandin D2
Authors: Xue Luzheng , Barrow Anna , Fleming Vicki M. , Hunter Michael G. , Ogg Graham , Klenerman Paul , Pettipher Roy
Published: December 2011

PGD2 exerts a number of proinflammatory responses through a high-affinity interaction with chemoattractant receptor-homologous molecule expressed on Th2 cells (CRTH2) and has been detected at high concentrations at sites of allergic inflammation. Because cysteinyl leukotrienes (cysLTs) are also produced during the allergic response, we investigated the possibility that cysLTs may modulate the response of human Th2 cells to PGD2. PGD2 induced concentration-dependent Th2 cytokine production in the absence of TCR stimulation. Leukotrienes D4 and E4 (LTE4) also stimulated the cytokine production but were much less active than PGD2. However, when combined with PGD2, cysLTs caused a greater than additive enhancement of the response, with LTE4 being most effective in activating Th2 cells. LTE4 enhanced calcium mobilization in response to PGD2 in Th2 cells without affecting endogenous PGD2 production or CRTH2 receptor expression. The effect of LTE4 was inhibited by montelukast but not by the P2Y12 antagonist methylthioadenosine 5′-monophosphate. The enhancing effect was also evident with endogenous cysLTs produced from immunologically activated mast cells because inhibition of cysLT action by montelukast or cysLT synthesis by MK886, an inhibitor of 5-lipoxygenase–activating protein, reduced the response of Th2 cells to the levels produced by PGD2 alone. These findings reveal that cysLTs, in particular LTE4, have a significant proinflammatory impact on T cells and demonstrate their effects on Th2 cells are mediated by a montelukast-sensitive receptor.
Biochemical Bone Turnover Markers and Osteoporosis in Older Men: Where Are We?
Authors: Szulc Pawel
Published: December 2011

In men aged less than 60, the association of serum and urinary levels of biochemical bone turnover markers (BTMs) and bone mineral density (BMD) is weak or not significant. After this age, higher BTM levels are correlated weakly, but significantly, with lower BMD and faster bone loss. Limited data from the cohort studies suggest that BTM measurement does not improve the prediction of fragility fractures in older men in comparison with age, BMD, history of falls and fragility fractures. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) decreases bone resorption. During TRT, bone formation markers slightly increase (direct effect on osteoblasts), then decrease (slowdown of bone turnover). Bisphosphonates (alendronate, risedronate, ibandronate, zoledronate) induce a rapid decrease in bone resorption followed by a milder decrease in bone formation. In men receiving antiresorptive therapy for prostate cancer, zoledronate, denosumab and toremifene decrease significantly levels of bone resorption and bone formation markers. Teriparatide induced a rapid increase in serum concentrations of bone formation markers followed by an increase in bone resorption. We need more studies on the utility of BTM measurement for the improvement of the persistence and adherence to the anti-osteoporotic treatment in men.
Risk Factors for Infection with Coagulase-Negative Staphylococci in Newborns from the Neonatal Unit of a Brazilian University Hospital
Authors: De Oliveira Adilson , Sanches Patrícia , Lyra João C. , Bentlin Maria R. , Rugolo Ligia M.S.S. , De Lourdes Ribeiro De Souza Da Cunha Maria
Published: December 2011

Background

Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) are one of the most frequent causative agents of neonatal nosocomial infections, especially in premature and low-weight newborns. Risk factors for infection include extracellular polysaccharide production and consequent biofilm formation that permit adhesion to the smooth surface of catheters and other medical devices. The objective of this study was to identify CoNS strains isolated from 105 newborns admitted to the Neonatal Unit of our hospital, and to evaluate the association of biofilm production and host risk factors with the occurrence of infection.

Methods

CoNS isolates were identified and classified as significant or contaminant based on clinical and laboratory data of the newborn medical records. Perinatal risk factors for infection, neonatal clinical evolution, and antibiotic treatment were analysed. In addition, the presence of genes ( icaA, icaC and icaD) responsible for biofilm production in CoNS was investigated.

Results

Among the 130 CoNS strains studied, 66 (50.8%) were classified as clinically significant and 64 (49.2%) as contaminant. There was no difference in the detection of biofilm-specific genes between CoNS strains isolated from newborns with (81.8%) and without infection (84.3%), although 11 (91.7%) of the 12 children whose death was related to CoNS were infected with strains that were positive for these genes. Forty-five (83.3%) of the 54 newborns infected with CoNS were premature and 33 (61.1%) had a birth weight ≤ 1,500 g. Most newborns infected with CoNS had been submitted to invasive procedures, including catheter use (85.2%), parenteral nutrition (61.1%), and mechanical ventilation (57.4%). S. epidermidis was the most frequently isolated species (81.5%) and was more related to infection (86.3%) than to contamination (76.5%).

Conclusion

Most newborns infected with CoNS presented factors that contributed to the colonization and development of infection with these microorganisms, including a birth weight ≤ 1,500 g, catheter complications, use of a drain, and previous antibiotic treatment. The fact that most children who died of CoNS-related infection carried strains positive for biofilm-specific genes indicates the importance of this virulence factor for the outcome of staphylococcal infections.
Residual effects of one-time manure, crop residue and fertilizer amendments on a desurfaced soil
Authors: Larney Francis J. , Henry Janzen H. , Olson Andrew F.
Published: December 2011

Larney, F.J., Janzen, H.H. and Olson, A.F. 2011. Residual effectsof one-time manure, crop residue and fertilizer amendments on a desurfaced soil. Can. J. Soil Sci. 91: 1029–1043. Organic amendments are often used to mitigate the effects of soil degradation caused by erosion. In spring 1992, a desurfaced soil (∼15 cm depth mechanically removed to simulate erosion) received one-time applications of amendments (20 Mg ha−1dry wt), and was subsequently seeded annually to spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). By 2009, six treatments (fresh and old cattle manure, hog and poultry manure, alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) hay and straw+200 kg P ha−1) had cumulative yields which were not significantly different (−6.5 to −19.5%) from the topsoil check treatment (no topsoil removed, no amendment). Most (8 of 13) amendment treatments showed significant power function relationships between cumulative grain yield (expressed as a percent of topsoil check) and time while two (hog and poultry manure) were quadratic. Soil organic carbon (SOC) accrued on all treatments over time, increasing significantly from an average of 12.2 g kg−1in 1992 to 13.2 g kg−1(0–15 cm depth) in 2003. Residual amendment effects on total nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) were apparent 11.5 yr after application. Results demonstrated that while drastically disturbed soils may recover productivity in the absence of organic amendments (e.g., eroded check treatment), organic amendments play a residual role in their ongoing maintenance.
Life cycle assessment of corn stover production for cellulosic ethanol in Quebec
Authors: Whitman Thea , Yanni Sandra , Whalen Joann
Published: December 2011

Whitman, T., Yanni, S.F. and Whalen, J.K. 2011.Life cycle assessment of corn stover production for cellulosic ethanol in Quebec. Can. J. Soil Sci.91: 997–1012. The province of Quebec has a target of 5% ethanol (EtOH) content in fuel by 2012, which means the province will require about 400 million L of ethanol per year based on current consumption. Current research is focused on “second generation biofuels” such as cellulosic EtOH, which can be produced from agricultural by-products like corn stover. A life cycle assessment (LCA) evaluates the “cradle to gate” impact of corn stover feedstock production for cellulosic EtOH production in three corn-producing regions in Quebec for two impact categories: energy and greenhouse gas (GHG) impacts. The modelled system boundaries include in-field processes: corn stover production, collection, transport, soil organic carbon (SOC) loss, and N2O emissions, as well as background processes: herbicide, fertilizer, seed, and fuel production and transport. Sensitivity analyses vary the percentage of corn stover collected, contrast a multiple-pass with a one-pass stover-grain collection system, and compare mass, economic and system expansion allocation methods. Total energy impact is 931–1442 MJ t−1 dry stover collected under 15% stover collection, with stover harvest, transport, and field operationscontributing most strongly to the total impact. Total GHG emissions from corn stover production and transport of stover to the ethanol facility are320–488kg CO2e t−1 dry stover under 15% stover collection, with SOC loss, N2O emissions, and stover harvest contributing the most to the total impact. Sensitivity analysis reveals that the energy and GHG impacts of stover production are strongly influenced by the mass of stover collected, the use of a one-pass system, and the choice of allocation methods. Scaling-up results from the modelled system suggest that 100% of Quebec's EtOH targets could technically be supplied using corn stover feedstock, but this may come at the expense of GHG emissions and soil health.
Measuring unsaturated hydraulic conductivity (K(ψm)) of the F and H soil organic layers at small matric potential (ψm)
Authors: Wilske B. , Johnson E. A.
Published: December 2011

Wilske, B. and Johnson, E. A. 2011. Measuring unsaturated hydraulic conductivity (K(ψm)) of the F and H soil organic layers at small matric potential (ψm). Can. J. Soil Sci. 91: 965–968. K(ψm) of the soil organic layers is a key parameter to assess water redistribution in cold-climate forests. This study tested the twin suction disc apparatus (TSD) as a new method to measure K(ψm) of the F and H layers directly. We compared the results to two studies. One represents a large data base, the other used similar sample locations; but both derived K(ψm) from combining two methods, i.e., pressure plate measurements combined with the instantaneous profile technique or the constant head approach. The TSD data are consistent with previous results considering the large variability in K(ψm) from the combined methods. This suggests that the TSD method represents an alternative to determine K(ψm) of the soil organic layer.
Seasonal and diurnal variations of particulate nitrate and organic matter at the IfT research station Melpitz
Authors: Poulain L. , Spindler G. , Birmili W. , Plass-Dülmer C. , Wiedensohler A. , Herrmann H.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. Ammonium nitrate and several organic compounds such as dicarboxylic acids (e.g. succinic acid, glutaric acid), some Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAHs) or some n-alkanes are semi-volatile. The transition of these compounds between the gas and particulate phase may significantly change the aerosol particles radiative properties, the heterogeneous chemical properties, and, naturally, the total particulate mass concentration. To better assess these time-dependent effects, three intensive field experiments were conducted in 2008–2009 at the Central European EMEP research station Melpitz (Germany) using an Aerodyne Aerosol Mass Spectrometer (AMS). Data from all seasons highlight organic matter as being the most important particulate fraction of PM1 in summer (59%) while in winter, the nitrate fraction was more prevalent (34.4%). The diurnal variation of nitrate always showed the lowest concentration during the day while its concentration increased during the night. This night increase of nitrate concentration was higher in winter (ΔNO3− = 3.6 μg m−3) than in summer (ΔNO3− = 0.7 μg m−3). The variation in particulate nitrate was inherently linked to the gas-to-particle-phase equilibrium of ammonium nitrate and the dynamics of the atmosphere during day. The results of this study suggest that during summer nights, the condensation of HNO3 and NH3 on pre-existing particles represents the most prevalent source of nitrate, whereas during winter, nighttime chemistry is the predominant source of nitrate. During the summer 2008's campaign, a clear diurnal evolution in the oxidation state of the organic matter became evident (Organic Mass to Organic Carbon ratio (OM/OC) ranging from 1.65 during night to 1.80 during day and carbon oxidation state (OSc) from −0.66 to −0.4), which could be correlated to hydroxyl radical (OH) and ozone concentrations, indicating a photochemical transformation process. In summer, the organic particulate matter seemed to be heavily influenced by regional secondary formation and transformation processes, facilitated by photochemical production processes as well as a diurnal cycling of the substances between the gas and particulate phase. In winter, these processes were obviously less pronounced (OM/OC ranging from 1.60 to 1.67 and OSc from −0.8 to −0.7), so that organic matter apparently originated mainly from aged particles and long range transport.
Evaluation on the role of sulfuric acid in the mechanisms of new particle formation for Beijing case
Authors: Wang Z. B. , Hu M. , Yue D. L. , Zheng J. , Zhang R. Y. , Wiedensohler A. , Wu Z. J. , Nieminen T. , Boy M.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. New particle formation (NPF) is considered as an important mechanism for gas-to-particle transformation, and gaseous sulfuric acid is believed as a crucial precursor. Up to now few field-based studies on nucleation mechanisms and the role of sulfuric acid were conducted in China. In this study, simultaneously measurements of particle number size distributions and gaseous sulfuric acid concentrations were performed from July to September in 2008. Totally, 22 new particle formation events were observed during the entire 85 campaign days. The results show that in the case of both higher source and sink values, the result of the competition between source and sink is more likely the key limiting factor to determine the observation of NPF events in Beijing. The concentrations of gaseous sulfuric acid show good correlations with freshly nucleated particles (N3-6 and formation rates (J3 and J1.5. The power-law relationship between H2SO4 concentration and N3-6 or J is adopted to explore the nucleation mechanism. The exponents are showed a great range (from 1 to 7). More than half of the NPF events exhibit an exponent larger than 2.5. For these cases, the thermodynamic process works better than the activation or kinetic nucleation theories to explain the nucleation events in urban atmosphere of Beijing.
Commentary on using equivalent latitude in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere
Authors: Pan L. L. , Kunz A. , Homeyer C. R. , Munchak L. A. , Kinnison D. E. , Tilmes S.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. We discuss the use of potential vorticity (PV) based equivalent latitude (EqLat) and potential temperature (θ) coordinates in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere (UTLS) for chemical transport studies. The main objective is to provide a cautionary note on using EqLat–θ coordinates for aggregating chemical tracers in the UTLS. Several examples are used to show 3-D distributions of EqLat together with chemical constituents for a range of θ. We show that the use of PV–θ coordinates may not be suitable for several reasons when tropospheric processes are an important part of a study. Due to the different static stability structures between the stratosphere and troposphere, the use of θ as a vertical coordinate does not provide equal representations of the UT and LS. Since the θ surfaces are often quasi-vertical in the troposphere, the θ coordinate does not work well distinguishing the UT from the boundary layer. We further discuss the duality of PV/EqLat as a tracer versus as a coordinate variable. Using an example, we show that while PV/EqLat serves well as a transport tracer in the UTLS region, it may misrepresent the effect of transport when used as a coordinate to average chemical tracers. Overall, when choosing these coordinates, considerations need to be made not only based on the time scale of PV being a conservative tracer, but also the specific research questions to be addressed.