bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Membrane and Core Periplasmic Agrobacterium tumefaciens Virulence Type IV Secretion System Components Localize to Multiple Sites around the Bacterial Perimeter during Lateral Attachment to Plant Cells
Authors: Aguilar Julieta , Cameron Todd A. , Zupan John , Zambryski Patricia
Published: October 2011

Type IV secretion systems (T4SS) transfer DNA and/or proteins into recipient cells. Here we performed immunofluorescence deconvolution microscopy to localize the assembled T4SS by detection of its native components VirB1, VirB2, VirB4, VirB5, VirB7, VirB8, VirB9, VirB10, and VirB11 in the C58 nopaline strain of
Agrobacterium tumefaciens
, following induction of virulence (
vir
) gene expression. These different proteins represent T4SS components spanning the inner membrane, periplasm, or outer membrane. Native VirB2, VirB5, VirB7, and VirB8 were also localized in the
A. tumefaciens
octopine strain A348. Quantitative analyses of the localization of all the above Vir proteins in nopaline and octopine strains revealed multiple foci in single optical sections in over 80% and 70% of the bacterial cells, respectively. Green fluorescent protein (GFP)-VirB8 expression following
vir
induction was used to monitor bacterial binding to live host plant cells; bacteria bind predominantly along their lengths, with few bacteria binding via their poles or subpoles.
vir
-induced attachment-defective bacteria or bacteria without the Ti plasmid do not bind to plant cells. These data support a model where multiple
vir-
T4SS around the perimeter of the bacterium maximize effective contact with the host to facilitate efficient transfer of DNA and protein substrates.

IMPORTANCE
Transfer of DNA and/or proteins to host cells through multiprotein type IV secretion system (T4SS) complexes that span the bacterial cell envelope is critical to bacterial pathogenesis. Early reports suggested that T4SS components localized at the cell poles. Now, higher-resolution deconvolution fluorescence microscopy reveals that all structural components of the
Agrobacterium tumefaciens vir
-T4SS, as well as its transported protein substrates, localize to multiple foci around the cell perimeter. These results lead to a new model of
A. tumefaciens
attachment to a plant cell, where
A. tumefaciens
takes advantage of the multiple
vir-
T4SS along its length to make intimate lateral contact with plant cells and thereby effectively transfer DNA and/or proteins through the
vir-
T4SS. The T4SS of
A. tumefaciens
is among the best-studied T4SS, and the majority of its components are highly conserved in different pathogenic bacterial species. Thus, the results presented can be applied to a broad range of pathogens that utilize T4SS.
Chlamydia infection, pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy and infertility: cross-national study
Authors: Bender Nicole , Herrmann Björn , Andersen Berit , Hocking Jane S , van Bergen Jan , Morgan Jane , van den Broek Ingrid VF , Zwahlen Marcel , Low Nicola
Published: October 2011

Objectives

To describe, using routine data in selected countries, chlamydia control activities and rates of chlamydia infection, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), ectopic pregnancy and infertility and to compare trends in chlamydia positivity with rates of PID and ectopic pregnancy.

Methods

Cross-national comparison including national data from Australia, Denmark, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Sweden and Switzerland. Routine data sources about chlamydia diagnosis and testing and International Classification of Disease-10 coded diagnoses of PID, ectopic pregnancy and infertility in women aged 15–39 years from 1999 to 2008 were described. Trends over time and relevant associations were examined using Poisson regression.

Results

Opportunistic chlamydia testing was recommended in all countries except Switzerland, but target groups differed. Rates of chlamydia testing were highest in New Zealand. Chlamydia positivity was similar in all countries with available data (Denmark, New Zealand and Sweden) and increased over time. Increasing chlamydia positivity rates were associated with decreasing PID rates in Denmark and Sweden and with decreasing ectopic pregnancy rates in Denmark, New Zealand and Sweden. Ectopic pregnancy rates appeared to increase over time in 15–19-year-olds in several countries. Trends in infertility diagnoses were very variable.

Conclusions

The intensity of recommendations about chlamydia control varied between countries but was not consistently related to levels of chlamydia diagnosis or testing. Relationships between levels of chlamydia infection and complication rates between or within countries over time were not straightforward. Development and validation of indicators of chlamydia-related morbidity that can be compared across countries and over time should be pursued.
Extensive Air Showers and Hadronic Interactions at High Energy
Authors: Engel Ralph , Heck Dieter , Pierog Tanguy
Published: October 2011

At energies greater than 1015 eV, cosmic-ray particles can be measured only indirectly by detecting the extensive showers of secondary particles they create in the Earth's atmosphere. A detailed simulation of these particle showers is needed to reconstruct the properties of the primary particles. Key to understanding extensive air showers is the modeling of hadronic multiparticle production at energies from the particle-production threshold up to 1020 eV—far beyond the reach of man-made accelerators. In this article, we introduce the relation between extensive air showers and hadronic interactions at high energy. We review air shower predictions of commonly used interaction models and discuss their uncertainties. Finally, we illustrate the importance of accelerator measurements for air shower simulation and, complementarily, the information that can be obtained from air showers on particle production.
The arterial depressor response to chronic low-dose angiotensin II infusion in female rats is estrogen dependent
Authors: Sampson Amanda K. , Hilliard Lucinda M. , Moritz Karen M. , Thomas Merlin C. , Tikellis Chris , Widdop Robert E. , Denton Kate M.
Published: October 2011

The complex role of the renin-angiotensin-system (RAS) in arterial pressure regulation has been well documented. Recently, we demonstrated that chronic low-dose angiotensin II (ANG II) infusion decreases arterial pressure in female rats via an AT2R-mediated mechanism. Estrogen can differentially regulate components of the RAS and is known to influence arterial pressure regulation. We hypothesized that AT2R-mediated depressor effects evident in females were estrogen dependent and thus would be abolished by ovariectomy and restored by estrogen replacement. Female Sprague-Dawley rats underwent ovariectomy or sham surgery and were treated with 17β-estradiol or placebo. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) was measured via telemetry in response to a 2-wk infusion of ANG II (50 ng·kg−1·min−1 sc) or saline. MAP significantly decreased in females treated with ANG II (−10 ± 2 mmHg), a response that was abolished by ovariectomy (+4 ± 2 mmHg) and restored with estrogen replacement (−6 ± 2 mmHg). Cardiac and renal gene expression of components of the RAS was differentially regulated by estrogen, such that overall, estrogen shifted the balance of the RAS toward the vasodilatory axis. In conclusion, estrogen-dependent mechanisms offset the vasopressor actions of ANG II by enhancing RAS vasodilator pathways in females. This highlights the potential for these vasodilator pathways as therapeutic targets, particularly in women.
Microvascular disease precedes the decline in renal function in the streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat
Authors: Maric-Bilkan Christine , Flynn Elizabeth R. , Chade Alejandro R.
Published: October 2011

Diabetic nephropathy is a progressive and generalized vasculopathic condition associated with abnormal angiogenesis. We aim to determine whether changes in renal microvascular (MV) density correlate with and play a role in the progressive deterioration of renal function in diabetes. We hypothesize that MV changes represent the early steps of renal injury that worsen as diabetes progresses, initiating a vicious circle that leads to irreversible renal injury. Male nondiabetic (ND) or streptozotocin-induced diabetic (D) Sprague-Dawley rats were followed for 4 or 12 wk. Renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) were measured by PAH and 125I-[iothalamate], respectively. Renal MV density was quantified ex vivo using three-dimensional micro computed tomography and JG-12 immunoreactivity. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels (ELISA) and expression of VEGF receptors and factors involved in MV remodeling were quantified in renal tissue by Western blotting. Finally, renal morphology was investigated by histology. Four weeks of diabetes was associated with increased GFR, accompanied by a 34% reduction in renal MV density and augmented renal VEGF levels. However, at 12 wk, while GFR remained similarly elevated, reduction of MV density was more pronounced (75%) and associated with increased MV remodeling, renal fibrosis, but unchanged renal VEGF compared with ND at 12 wk. The damage, loss, and subsequent remodeling of the renal MV architecture in the diabetic kidney may represent the initiating events of progressive renal injury. This study suggests a novel concept of MV disease as an early instigator of diabetic kidney disease that may precede and likely promote the decline in renal function.
The first decade of using multiphoton microscopy for high-power kidney imaging
Authors: Peti-Peterdi János , Burford James L. , Hackl Matthias J.
Published: October 2011

In this review, we highlight the major scientific breakthroughs in kidney research achieved using multiphoton microscopy (MPM) and summarize the milestones in the technological development of kidney MPM during the past 10 years. Since more and more renal laboratories invest in MPM worldwide, we discuss future directions and provide practical, useful tips and examples for the application of this still-emerging optical sectioning technology. Advantages of using MPM in various kidney preparations that range from freshly dissected individual glomeruli or the whole kidney in vitro to MPM of the intact mouse and rat kidney in vivo are reviewed. Potential combinations of MPM with micromanipulation techniques including microperfusion and micropuncture are also included. However, we emphasize the most advanced and complex, quantitative in vivo imaging applications as the ultimate use of MPM since the true mandate of this technology is to look inside intact organs in live animals and humans.
Enhanced propriospinal excitation from hand muscles to wrist flexors during reach-to-grasp in humans
Authors: Giboin Louis-Solal , Lackmy-Vallée Alexandra , Burke David , Marchand-Pauvert Véronique
Published: October 2011

In humans, propriospinal neurons located at midcervical levels receive peripheral and corticospinal inputs and probably participate in the control of grip tasks, but their role in reaching movements, as observed in cats and primates, is still an open question. The effect of ulnar nerve stimulation on flexor carpi radialis (FCR) motor evoked potential (MEP) was tested during reaching tasks and tonic wrist flexion. Significant MEP facilitation was observed at the end of reach during reach-to-grasp but not during grasp, reach-to-point, or tonic contractions. MEP facilitation occurred at a longer interstimulus interval than expected for convergence of corticospinal and afferent volleys at motoneuron level and was not paralleled by a change in the H-reflex. These findings suggest convergence of the two volleys at propriospinal level. Ulnar-induced MEP facilitation was observed when conditioning stimuli were at 0.75 motor response threshold (MT), but not 1 MT. This favors an increased excitability of propriospinal neurons rather than depression of their feedback inhibition, as has been observed during tonic power grip tasks. It is suggested that the ulnar-induced facilitation of FCR MEP during reach may be due to descending activation of propriospinal neurons, assisting the early recruitment of large motoneurons for rapid movement. Because the feedback inhibitory control is still open, this excitation can be truncated by cutaneous inputs from the palmar side of the hand during grasp, thus assisting movement termination. It is concluded that the feedforward activation of propriospinal neurons and their feedback control may be involved in the internal model, motor planning, and online adjustments for reach-to-grasp movements in humans.
Hypothalamic gene expression profile indicates a reduction in G protein signaling in the Wfs1 mutant mice
Authors: Kõks Sulev , Soomets Ursel , Plaas Mario , Terasmaa Anton , Noormets Klari , Tillmann Vallo , Vasar Eero , Fernandes Cathy , Schalkwyk Leonard C.
Published: October 2011

The Wfs1 gene codes for a protein with unknown function, but deficiency in this protein results in a range of neuropsychiatric and neuroendocrine syndromes. In the present study we aimed to find the functional networks influenced by Wfs1 in the hypothalamus. We performed gene expression profiling (Mouse Gene 1.0 ST Arrays) in Wfs1-deficient mice; 305 genes were differentially expressed with nominal P value < 0.01. FDR (false discovery rate)-adjusted P values were significant (0.007) only for two genes: C4b (t=9.66) and Wfs1 ( t = −9.03). However, several genes related to G protein signaling were very close to the FDR-adjusted significance level, such as Rgs4 (regulator of G protein signaling 4) that was downregulated (−0.34, t = −5.4) in Wfs1-deficient mice. Changes in Rgs4 and C4b expression were confirmed by QRT-PCR. In humans, Rgs4 is in the locus for bipolar disease (BPD), and its expression is downregulated in BPD. C4b is a gene related to the neurodegenerative diseases. Functional analysis including the entire data set revealed significant alterations in the canonical pathway “G protein-coupled receptor signaling.” The gene expression profile in the hypothalami of the Wfs1 mutant mice was significantly similar to the profiles of following biological functions: psychological disorders, bipolar disorder, mood disorder. In conclusion, hypothalamic gene expression profile resembles with some molecular pathways functionally related to the clinical syndromes in the Wolfram syndrome patients.
Single Coronary Artery with Anomalous Rising of the Right Coronary Artery: A Rare Coronary Anomaly Diagnosed by 256-Multidetector Computed Tomography
Authors: Gitsioudis Gitsios , Giannitsis Evangelos , Hosch Waldemar , Kauczor Hans U. , Katus Hugo A. , Korosoglou Grigorios
Published: October 2011

Herein we report the diagnostic potential of cardiac computed tomography (cCT) to delineate the origin and course of an anomalous right coronary artery (RCA) originating from the midpart of the left anterior descended artery (LAD) in an adult with no other form of congenital heart disease. The patient was referred to our institution due to exertional dyspnea and suspected coronary artery disease. The patient underwent X-ray coronary angiography, and no high grade lesions were observed in the left coronary vessels. In the course of the mid-left-anterior-descending artery (LAD), an anomalous side branch coursing away from the left circumflex coronary artery (LCX) was observed, while a right coronary ostium could not be depicted. cCT confirmed the absence of a right coronary ostium, and the vessel originating from the mid LAD was identified as an anomalous RCA, which coursed anterior of the aorta and the pulmonary trunk.
Nontrivial Periodic Solutions for Nonlinear Second‐Order Difference Equations
Authors: He Tieshan , Lu Yimin , Lei Youfa , Yang Fengjian
Published: October 2011

This paper is concerned with the existence of nontrivial periodic solutions and positive periodic solutions to a nonlinear second‐order difference equation. Under some conditions concerning the first positive eigenvalue of the linear equation corresponding to the nonlinear second‐order equation, we establish the existence results by using the topological degree and fixed point index theories.
The Potential Role of Probiotics in the Management of Childhood Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Critchfield J. William , van Hemert Saskia , Ash Michael , Mulder Linda , Ashwood Paul
Published: October 2011

Gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunction has been reported in a substantial number of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Activation of the mucosal immune response and the presence of abnormal gut microbiota are repeatedly observed in these children. In children with ASD, the presence of GI dysfunction is often associated with increased irritability, tantrums, aggressive behaviour, and sleep disturbances. Moreover, modulating gut bacteria with short-term antibiotic treatment can lead to temporary improvement in behavioral symptoms in some individuals with ASD. Probiotics can influence microbiota composition and intestinal barrier function and alter mucosal immune responses. The administration of probiotic bacteria to address changes in the microbiota might, therefore, be a useful novel therapeutic tool with which to restore normal gut microbiota, reduce inflammation, restore epithelial barrier function, and potentially ameliorate behavioural symptoms associated with some children with ASD. In this review of the literature, support emerges for the clinical testing of probiotics in ASD, especially in the context of addressing GI symptoms.
Majorization for A Subclass of β-Spiral Functions of Order α Involving a Generalized Linear Operator
Authors: Abubaker Afaf A. Ali , Darus Maslina , Breaz Daniel
Published: October 2011

Motivated by Carlson-Shaffer linear operator, we define here a new generalized linear operator. Using this operator, we define a class of analytic functions in the unit disk U. For this class, a majorization problem of analytic functions is discussed.
Prediction of Surface Roughness in End Milling Process Using Intelligent Systems: A Comparative Study
Authors: Sharkawy Abdel Badie
Published: October 2011

A study is presented to model surface roughness in end milling process. Three types of intelligent networks have been considered. They are (i) radial basis function neural networks (RBFNs), (ii) adaptive neurofuzzy inference systems (ANFISs), and (iii) genetically evolved fuzzy inference systems (G‐FISs). The machining parameters, namely, the spindle speed, feed rate, and depth of cut have been used as inputs to model the workpiece surface roughness. The goal is to get the best prediction accuracy. The procedure is illustrated using experimental data of end milling 6061 aluminum alloy. The three networks have been trained using experimental training data. After training, they have been examined using another set of data, that is, validation data. Results are compared with previously published results. It is concluded that ANFIS networks may suffer the local minima problem, and genetic tuning of fuzzy networks cannot insure perfect optimality unless suitable parameter setting (population size, number of generations etc.) and tuning range for the FIS, parameters are used which can be hardly satisfied. It is shown that the RBFN model has the best performance (prediction accuracy) in this particular case.
Structural Concrete Prepared with Coarse Recycled Concrete Aggregate: From Investigation to Design
Authors: Corinaldesi Valeria
Published: October 2011

An investigation of mechanical behaviour and elastic properties of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) is presented. RACs were prepared by using a coarse aggregate fraction made of recycled concrete coming from a recycling plant in which rubble from concrete structure demolition is collected and suitably treated. Several concrete mixtures were prepared by using either the only virgin aggregates (as reference) or 30% coarse recycled aggregate replacing gravel and by using two different kinds of cement. Different water-to-cement ratios were adopted ranging from 0.40 to 0.60. Concrete workability was always in the range 190–200 mm. Concrete compressive strength, elastic modulus, and drying shrinkage were evaluated. Results obtained showed that structural concrete up to C32/40 strength class can be manufactured with RAC. Moreover, results obtained from experimentation were discussed in order to obtain useful information for RAC structure design, particularly in terms of elastic modulus and drying shrinkage prediction.
Brown Tumor as a Result of Hyperparathyroidism in an End-Stage Renal Disease Patient
Authors: Jakubowski Jesse M. , Velez Ines , McClure Shawn A.
Published: October 2011

A 49-year-old male with known history of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) presents with an intraoral exophytic mass of the right mandible. This lesion was given a histologic diagnosis of a Brown tumor.Purpose. To allow physicians to include this lesion in a differential diagnosis when evaluating patients with primary, secondary, or tertiary hyperparathyroidism.
A Knowledge Management and Decision Support Model for Enterprises
Authors: Ribino Patrizia , Augello Agnese , Lo Re Giuseppe , Gaglio Salvatore
Published: October 2011

We propose a novel knowledge management system (KMS) for enterprises. Our system exploits two different approaches for knowledge representation and reasoning: a document-based approach based on data-driven creation of a semantic space and an ontology-based model. Furthermore, we provide an expert system capable of supporting the enterprise decisional processes and a semantic engine which performs intelligent search on the enterprise knowledge bases. The decision support process exploits the Bayesian networks model to improve business planning process when performed under uncertainty.
On Certain Class of Analytic Functions Related to Cho‐Kwon‐Srivastava Operator
Authors: Ghanim F. , Darus M.
Published: October 2011

Motivated by a multiplier transformation and some subclasses of meromorphic functions which were defined by means of the Hadamard product of the Cho‐Kwon‐Srivastava operator, we define here a similar transformation by means of the Ghanim and Darus operator. A class related to this transformation will be introduced and the properties will be discussed.
Time‐Periodic Solution of the Weakly Dissipative Camassa‐Holm Equation
Authors: Shen Chunyu
Published: October 2011

This paper is concerned with time‐periodic solution of the weakly dissipative Camassa‐Holm equation with a periodic boundary condition. The existence and uniqueness of a time periodic solution is presented.
Comparing the Neuropsychiatric Profile of Patients with Alzheimer Disease Who Present Spared versus Impaired Executive Functioning
Authors: Gleichgerrcht Ezequiel , Chade Anabel , Torralva Teresa , Roca María , Manes Facundo
Published: October 2011

Background. A “dysexecutive” group of patients with Alzheimer disease (AD) has been previously identified, and these patients have been found to present higher frequency of psychiatric symptoms and more pronounced functional impact. This study aimed at evaluating the frequency of neuropsychiatric symptoms in patients with early AD who present with impaired executive functioning.Methods. Thirty patients with early AD diagnosis were divided into a spared (SEF) and an impaired (IEF) executive functioning group according to their performance scores on neuropsychological tests. Their closest relatives or caregivers completed the Cambridge behavioral inventory (CBI), which assesses behavioral symptoms grouped into 13 categories.Results. A significant difference was exclusively found between SEF and IEF in terms of the frequency of stereotypies and repetitive motor behavior (U=60.5,P=.024).Conclusions. The presence of stereotypies could be associated with a dysexecutive profile in AD patients. These results shed light on the role of frontal circuitry in the expression of motor symptoms in AD and prompt for further research that will contribute to the differential diagnosis both of different subtypes of AD and other types of dementia.
Use of Flexible Cystoscopy to Insert a Foley Catheter over a Guide Wire in Spinal Cord Injury Patients: Special Precautions to be Observed
Authors: Vaidyanathan Subramanian , Soni Bakul , Singh Gurpreet , Hughes Peter , Oo Tun
Published: October 2011

When urethral catheterisation is difficult or impossible in spinal cord injury patients, flexible cystoscopy and urethral catheterisation over a guide wire can be performed on the bedside, thus obviating the need for emergency suprapubic cystostomy. Spinal cord injury patients, who undergo flexible cystoscopy and urethral catheterisation over a guide wire, may develop potentially serious complications. (1) Persons with lesion above T-6 are susceptible to develop autonomic dysreflexia during cystoscopy and urethral catheterisation over a guide wire; nifedipine 5–10 milligrams may be administered sublingually just prior to the procedure to prevent autonomic dysreflexia. (2) Spinal cord injury patients are at increased risk for getting urine infections as compared to able-bodied individuals. Therefore, antibiotics should be given to patients who get haematuria or urethral bleeding following urethral catheterisation over a guide wire. (3) Some spinal cord injury patients may have a small capacity bladder; in these patients, the guide wire, which is introduced into the urinary bladder, may fold upon itself with the tip of guide wire entering the urethra. If this complication is not recognised and a catheter is inserted over the guide wire, the Foley catheter will then be misplaced in urethra despite using cystoscopy and guide wire.
Assessment of Procalcitonin to Predict Outcome in Hypothermia-Treated Patients after Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Stammet Pascal , Devaux Yvan , Azuaje Francisco , Werer Christophe , Lorang Christiane , Gilson Georges , Max Martin
Published: October 2011

Objective. Determine the potential of procalcitonin (PCT) to predict neurological outcome after hypothermia treatment following cardiac arrest.Methods. Retrospective analysis of patient data over a 2-year period. Mortality and neurological outcome of survivors were determined 6 months after cardiac arrest using the Cerebral Performance Category (CPC) score.Results. Data from 53 consecutive patients were analyzed. Median age was 63 (54–71) and 79% were male. Twenty-seven patients had good outcome (CPC ≤ 2) whereas 26 had severe neurological sequelae or died (CPC 3–5). At 48 h, after regaining normothermia, PCT was significantly higher in patients with bad outcome compared to those with good outcome: 3.38 (1.10–24.48) versus 0.28 (0–0.75) ng/mL (). PCT values correlated with bad neurological outcome (, ) and predicted outcome with an area under the curve of 0.84 (95% CI 0.73–0.96). A cutoff point of 1 ng/mL provided a sensitivity of 85% and a specificity of 81%. Above a PCT level of 16 ng/mL, no patient regained consciousness. PCT provided an additive value over simplified acute physiology score II.Conclusions. PCT might be an ancillary marker for outcome prediction after cardiac arrest treated by induced hypothermia.
Osteopontin Alleles Are Associated with Clinical Characteristics in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Trivedi Tarak , Franek Beverly S. , Green Stephanie L. , Kariuki Silvia N. , Kumabe Marissa , Mikolaitis Rachel A. , Jolly Meenakshi , Utset Tammy O. , Niewold Timothy B.
Published: October 2011

Variants of the osteopontin (OPN) gene have been associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) susceptibility and cytokine profiles in SLE patients. It is not known whether these alleles are associated with specific clinical phenotypes in SLE. We studied 252 well‐characterized SLE patients from a multiethnic cohort, genotyping the rs11730582, rs28357094, rs6532040, and rs9138 SNPs in the OPN gene. Ancestry informative markers were used to control for genetic ancestry. The SLE‐risk allele rs9138C in the 3′ UTR region was associated with photosensitivity in lupus patients across all ancestral backgrounds (meta‐analysis OR = 3.2, 95% CI = 1.6–6.5, P = 1.0 × 10−3). Additionally, the promoter variant rs11730582C demonstrated suggestive evidence for association with two hematologic traits: thrombocytopenia (OR = 2.1, P = 0.023) and hemolytic anemia (OR = 2.6, P = 0.036). These clinical associations with SNPs in the promoter and 3′ UTR regions align with previously reported SLE‐susceptibility SNPs in OPN and suggest potential roles for these variants in antibody‐mediated cytopenias and skin inflammation in SLE.
Cellulose-Based Bio- and Nanocomposites: A Review
Authors: Kalia Susheel , Dufresne Alain , Cherian Bibin Mathew , Kaith B. S. , Avérous Luc , Njuguna James , Nassiopoulos Elias
Published: October 2011

Cellulose macro- and nanofibers have gained increasing attention due to the high strength and stiffness, biodegradability and renewability, and their production and application in development of composites. Application of cellulose nanofibers for the development of composites is a relatively new research area. Cellulose macro- and nanofibers can be used as reinforcement in composite materials because of enhanced mechanical, thermal, and biodegradation properties of composites. Cellulose fibers are hydrophilic in nature, so it becomes necessary to increase their surface roughness for the development of composites with enhanced properties. In the present paper, we have reviewed the surface modification of cellulose fibers by various methods. Processing methods, properties, and various applications of nanocellulose and cellulosic composites are also discussed in this paper.
Cortical Plasticity during Motor Learning and Recovery after Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Hosp Jonas A. , Luft Andreas R.
Published: October 2011

The motor system has the ability to adapt to environmental constraints and injury to itself. This adaptation is often referred to as a form of plasticity allowing for livelong acquisition of new movements and for recovery after stroke. We are not sure whether learning and recovery work via same or similar neural mechanisms. But, all these processes require widespread changes within the matrix of the brain. Here, basic mechanisms of these adaptations on the level of cortical circuitry and networks are reviewed. We focus on the motor cortices because their role in learning and recovery has been investigated more thoroughly than other brain regions.
Patient Characteristics Associated with HCV Treatment Adherence, Treatment Completion, and Sustained Virologic Response in HIV Coinfected Patients
Authors: Wagner Glenn , Chan Osilla Karen , Garnett Jeffrey , Ghosh-Dastidar Bonnie , Bhatti Laveeza , Goetz Matthew Bidwell , Witt Mallory
Published: October 2011

Background. Hepatitis C (HCV) treatment efficacy among HIV patients is limited by poor treatment adherence and tolerance, but few studies have examined the psychosocial determinants of treatment adherence and outcomes.Methods. Chart abstracted and survey data were collected on 72 HIV patients who had received pegylated interferon and ribavirin to assess correlates of treatment adherence, completion, and sustained virologic response (SVR).Results. Nearly half (46%) the sample had active psychiatric problems and 13% had illicit drug use at treatment onset; 28% reported <100% treatment adherence, 38% did not complete treatment (mostly due to virologic nonresponse), and intent to treat SVR rate was 49%. Having a psychiatric diagnosis was associated with nonadherence, while better HCV adherence was associated with both treatment completion and SVR.Conclusions. Good mental health may be an indicator of HCV treatment adherence readiness, which is in turn associated with treatment completion and response, but further research is needed with new HCV treatments emerging.
On the Convolution Equation Related to the Diamond Klein‐Gordon Operator
Authors: Liangprom Amphon , Nonlaopon Kamsing
Published: October 2011

We study the distribution for m ≥ 0, where is the diamond Klein‐Gordon operator iterated k times, δ is the Dirac delta
distribution, x = (x1, x2 … , xn) is a variable in ℝn, and α = (α1, α2, …, αn) is a
constant. In particular, we study the application of for solving the solution of some convolution equation. We find that the types of solution of such convolution
equation, such as the ordinary function and the singular distribution, depend on the relationship between k and M.
Self-Reported Disability in Adults with Severe Obesity
Authors: Kyrou I. , Osei-Assibey G. , Williams N. , Thomas R. , Halder L. , Taheri S. , Saravanan P. , Kumar S.
Published: October 2011

Self-reported disability in performing daily life activities was assessed in adults with severe obesity (BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2) using the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ). 262 participants were recruited into three BMI groups: Group I: 35–39.99 kg/m2; Group II: 40–44.99 kg/m2; Group III: ≥45.0 kg/m2. Progressively increasing HAQ scores were documented with higher BMI; Group I HAQ score: 0.125 (median) (range: 0–1.75); Group II HAQ score: 0.375 (0–2.5); Group III HAQ score: 0.75 (0–2.65) (Group III versus IIP<0.001; Group III versus IP<0.001; Group II versus IP=0.004). HAQ score strongly correlated with BMI and age. Nearly three-fourths of the study participants reported some degree of disability (HAQ score > 0). The prevalence of this degree of disability increased with increasing BMI and age. It also correlated to type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and clinical depression, but not to gender. Our data suggest that severe obesity is associated with self-reported disability in performing common daily life activities, with increasing degree of disability as BMI increases over 35 kg/m2. Functional assessment is crucial in obesity management, and establishing the disability profiles of obese patients is integral to both meet the specific healthcare needs of individuals and develop evidence-based public health programs, interventions, and priorities.
Effects of Theophylline on Anesthetized Malignant Hyperthermia‐Susceptible Pigs
Authors: Fiege Marko , Weisshorn Ralf , Kolodzie Kerstin , Wappler Frank , Gerbershagen Mark U.
Published: October 2011

Background. Theophylline was shown to induce contracture development in porcine malignant hyperthermia (MH) susceptible (MHS) skeletal muscles in vitro. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the in vivo effects of theophylline in MHS and MH normal (MHN) swine. Methods. MH‐trigger‐free general anesthesia was performed in MHS and MHN swine. Theophylline was administered intravenously in cumulative doses up to 93.5 mg·kg−1. The clinical occurrence of MH was defined by changes of central‐venous pCO2, central‐venous pH, and body core temperature. Results. Theophylline induced comparable clinical alterations in the anesthetized MHS and MHN swine, especially in regard to hemodynamic data. No pig developed hypermetabolism and/or MH according to defined criteria. All animals died with tachycardia followed by ventricular fibrillation. Conclusions. The cumulative theophylline doses used in this study were much higher than doses used therapeutically in humans, as demonstrated by measured blood concentrations. Theophylline is thus not a trigger of MH in genetically determined swine.
ELISA-Based Measurement of Antibody Responses and PCR-Based Detection Profiles Can Distinguish between Active Infection and Early Clearance ofBorrelia burgdorferi
Authors: Lazarus John J. , McCarter Akisha L. , Neifer-Sadhwani Kari , Wooten R. Mark
Published: October 2011

Borrelia burgdorferiis a spirochetal bacterium that causes Lyme disease. These studies address whether current research methods using either ELISA to detect seroconversion toB. burgdorferiantigens or PCR quantification of bacterial DNA within tissues can accurately distinguish between a productive infection versus aB. burgdorferiexposure that is rapidly cleared by the innate responses. Mice receiving even minimal doses of liveB. burgdorferiproduced significantly moreB. burgdorferi-specific IgM and IgG than groups receiving large inocula of heat-killed bacteria. Additionally, sera from mice injected with varied doses of killedB. burgdorferirecognized unique borrelial antigens compared to mice infected with liveB. burgdorferi. Intradermal injection of killedB. burgdorferiresulted in rapid DNA clearance from skin, whereas DNA was consistently detected in skin inoculated with viableB. burgdorferi. These data indicate that both ELISA-based serological analyses and PCR-based methods of assessingB. burgdorferiinfection clearly distinguish between an established infection with live bacteria and exposure to large numbers of bacteria that are promptly cleared by the innate responses.
Mechanisms of Alcohol-Induced Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Organ Injuries
Authors: Ji Cheng
Published: October 2011

Alcohol is readily distributed throughout the body in the blood stream and crosses biological membranes, which affect virtually all biological processes inside the cell. Excessive alcohol consumption induces numerous pathological stress responses, part of which is endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response. ER stress, a condition under which unfolded/misfolded protein accumulates in the ER, contributes to alcoholic disorders of major organs such as liver, pancreas, heart, and brain. Potential mechanisms that trigger the alcoholic ER stress response are directly or indirectly related to alcohol metabolism, which includes toxic acetaldehyde and homocysteine, oxidative stress, perturbations of calcium or iron homeostasis, alterations of S-adenosylmethionine to S-adenosylhomocysteine ratio, and abnormal epigenetic modifications. Interruption of the ER stress triggers is anticipated to have therapeutic benefits for alcoholic disorders.
Enhanced HMGB1 Expression May Contribute to Th17 Cells Activation in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Shi Yan , Sandoghchian Shotorbani Siamak , Su Zhaoliang , Liu Yanfang , Tong Jia , Zheng Dong , Chen Jianguo , Liu Yingzhao , Xu Yan , Jiao Zhijun , Wang Shengjun , Lu Liwei , Huang Xinxiang , Xu Huaxi
Published: October 2011

Rheumatoid arthritis(RA) is a common autoimmune disease associated with Th17 cells, but what about the effect of high-mobility group box chromosomal protein 1 (HMGB1) and the relationship between Th17-associated factors and HMGB1 in RA remains unknown. In the present study, we investigated the mRNA levels of HMGB1, RORγt, and IL-17 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients with rheumatoid arthritis by quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR), and the concentrations of HMGB1, IL-17, and IL-23 in plasma were detected by ELISA. And then, the effect of HMGB1 on Th17 cells differentiation was analyzedin vitro.Our clinical studies showed that the mRNAs of HMGB1, RORγt, and IL-17 in patients were higher than that in health control (P<0.05), especially in active RA patients (P<0.05). The plasma HMGB1, IL-17, and IL-23 in RA patients were also higher than that in health control (P<0.05); there was a positive correlation between the expression levels of HMGB1 and the amount of CRP, ERS, and RF in plasma.In vitro, the IL-17-produced CD4+T cells were increased with 100 ng/mL rHMGB1 for 12h, which indicated that the increased HMGB1 might contribute to Th17 cells activation in RA patients.
Estimation of Abbreviated Cyclosporine A Area under the Concentration-Time Curve in Allogenic Stem Cell Transplantation after Oral Administration
Authors: ELjebari Hanene , Ben Fradj Nadia , Salouage Issam , Gaies Emna , Trabelsi Sameh , Jebabli Nadia , Lakhal Mohamed , Ben Othman Tarek , Kouz Anis
Published: October 2011

Measurements of Cyclosporine (CsA) systemic exposure permit its dose adjustment in allogenic stem cell transplantation recipients to prevent graft-versus-host disease. CsA LSSs were developed and validated from 60 ASCT patients via multiple linear regressions. All whole-blood samples were analyzed by fluorescence polarization immunoassay (FPIA-Axym). The 10 models that have used CsA concentrations at a single time point did not have a good fit with AUC0–12(). and were the time points that correlated best with AUC0–12 h, were respectively 0.848, and 0.897. The LSS equation with the best predictive performance (bias, precision and number of samples) utilized three sampling concentrations was AUC0–12 h. Optimal LSSs equations which limited to those utilizing three timed concentrations taken within 4 hours post-dose developed from ASCT recipient's patients yielded a low bias <5% ranged from 1.27% to 2.68% and good precision <15% ranged from 9.60% and 11.02%. We propose an LSS model with equation AUC0–12 hfor a practical reason. Bias and precision for this model are respectively 2.68% and 11.02%.
Effect of Periodontal Therapy on Crevicular Fluid Interleukin-6 and Interleukin-8 Levels in Chronic Periodontitis
Authors: Goutoudi Paschalina , Diza Evdoxia , Arvanitidou Malamatenia
Published: October 2011

Purpose. The aim of this study was to analyse the levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of patients with chronic periodontitis prior to and following surgical and/or nonsurgical periodontal therapy for a period of 32 weeks.Methods. GCF samples were obtained from 24 nondiseased and 72 diseased sites of 12 periodontal patients prior to as well as at 6, 16, and 32 weeks following non-surgical and surgical periodontal therapy. IL-6 and IL-8 levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).Results. Periodontal treatment improved all clinical parameters. Both treatment modalities resulted in similar IL-6 as well as IL-8 levels. Mean IL-6 and IL-8 concentrations were significantly higher in non-diseased compared to diseased sites and increased significantly following treatment in diseased sites. Mean total amounts of IL-6 and IL-8 (TAIL-6, TAIL-8) did not differ significantly between diseased and nondiseased sites, while following therapy TAIL-8 levels decreased significantly.Conclusions. The data suggest that periodontal therapy reduced the levels of IL-8 in GCF. However, a strong relationship between IL-6, IL-8 amounts in GCF and periodontal destruction and inflammation was not found.
Acupuncture as Treatment of Hot Flashes and the Possible Role of Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide
Authors: Spetz Holm Anna-Clara E. , Frisk Jessica , Hammar Mats L.
Published: October 2011

The mechanisms behind hot flashes in menopausal women are not fully understood. The flashes in women are probably preceded by and actually initiated by a sudden downward shift in the set point for the core body temperature in the thermoregulatory center that is affected by sex steroids,β-endorphins, and other central neurotransmitters. Treatments that influence these factors may be expected to reduce hot flashes. Since therapy with sex steroids for hot flashes has appeared to cause a number of side effects and risks and women with hot flashes and breast cancer as well as men with prostate cancer and hot flashes are prevented from sex steroid therapy there is a great need for alternative therapies. Acupuncture affecting the opioid system has been suggested as an alternative treatment option for hot flashes in menopausal women and castrated men. The heat loss during hot flashes may be mediated by the potent vasodilator and sweat gland activator calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) the concentration of which increases in plasma during flashes in menopausal women and, according to one study, in castrated men with flushes. There is also evidence for connections between the opioid system and the release of CGRP. In this paper we discuss acupuncture as a treatment alternative for hot flashes and the role of CGRP in this context.
Bromodomain-Containing Protein 4: A Dynamic Regulator of Breast Cancer Metastasis through Modulation of the Extracellular Matrix
Authors: Alsarraj Jude , Hunter Kent W.
Published: October 2011

Metastasis is an extremely complex process that accounts for most cancer-related deaths. Malignant primary tumors can be removed surgically, but the cells that migrate, invade, and proliferate at distant organs are often the cells that prove most difficult to target therapeutically. There is growing evidence that host factors outside of the primary tumors are of major importance in the development of metastasis. Recently, we have shown that the bromodomain-containing protein 4 or bromodomain 4 (Brd4) functions as an inherited susceptibility gene for breast cancer progression and metastasis. In this paper, we will discuss that host genetic background on which a tumor arises can significantly alter the biology of the subsequent metastatic disease, and we will focus on the role ofBrd4in regulating metastasis susceptibility.
Advanced Signal Processing and Command Synthesis for Memory‐Limited Complex Systems
Authors: Toma Cristian
Published: October 2011

This paper presents advanced signal processing methods and command synthesis for memory‐limited complex systems. For accurate measurements performed on limited time interval, some specific methods should be added. For signal processing, a robust filtering and sampling procedure performed on a specific working interval is required, so as the influence of low‐amplitude and high‐frequency fluctuations to be diminished. This study shows that such a signal processing method for the case of memory‐limited complex systems requires the use of certain differentiation/integration procedures performed by oscillating systems, so as robust results suitable for efficient command synthesis to be available. A brief comparison with uncertainty aspects in modern physics (where quantum aspects can be considered as features of complex systems) is also presented.
Reliability in One-Repetition Maximum Performance in People with Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Buckley Thomas A. , Hass Christopher J.
Published: October 2011

Strength training is an effective modality to improve muscular strength and functional performance in people with Parkinson's disease (PWP). One-repetition maximum (1-RM) is the gold standard assessment of strength; however, PWP suffer from day-to-day variations in symptom severity and performance characteristics, potentially adversely affecting the reliability of 1-RM performance. Herein, we assessed the reliability of 1-RM in PWP. Forty-six participants completed two sessions of 1-RM testing of knee extension, knee flexion, chest press, and biceps curl at least 72 hours apart. Significantly differences between testing sessions were identified for knee extension (P< 0.001), knee flexion (P= 0.042), and biceps curl (P= 0.001); however, high reliability (ICC > 0.90) was also identified between sessions. Interestingly, almost third of subjects failed to perform better on the second testing session. These findings suggest that 1-RM testing can be safely performed in PWP and that disease-related daily variability may influence 1-RM performance.