bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of density dependence on the detection of trends in unobserved life‐history stages
Authors: Shea K. , Wolf N. , Mangel M.
Published: July 2006

In many species, certain life‐history stages are difficult or impossible to observe directly, hampering management. Often more easily observed stages are monitored instead, but the extent to which various forms of uncertainty cloud our ability to discern trends in one critical life‐history stage by observing another is poorly studied. We develop a stochastic simulation model for threatened California coho salmonOncorhynchus kisutchto examine how well trends in one stage can be detected from observations of another. In particular, we use the model to examine the effect density dependence has on our ability to detect trends. We present a structural form for the transition between life‐history stages that encompasses the common functional forms: density independence, Beverton–Holt compensatory density dependence and Ricker‐type over‐compensation. In small populations, such density dependence is often ignored. However, it may in fact be extremely important, for example if population decline was caused by a decrease in carrying capacity. Our results show that density dependence in any life‐history transition significantly reduces the ability to detect trends in abundance; critical but inaccessible stages cannot generally be studied by monitoring more easily observed stages, especially if density dependence is present for any life‐cycle transition.
Toxicity mediated by soluble oligomers of β‐amyloid(1–42) on cholinergic SN56.B5.G4 cells
Authors: Heinitz Katrin , Beck Martin , Schliebs Reinhard , Perez‐Polo J. Regino
Published: July 2006

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by cholinergic dysfunction and progressive basal forebrain cell loss which has been assumed to be as a result of the extensive accumulation of β‐amyloid (Aβ). In addition to Aβ fibrillar assemblies, there are pre‐fibrillar forms that have been shown to be neurotoxic, although their role in cholinergic degeneration is still not known. Using the cholinergic cell line SN56.B5.G4, we investigated the effect of different Aβ(1–42) aggregates on cell viability. In our model, only soluble oligomeric but not fibrillar Aβ(1–42) forms induced toxicity in cholinergic cells. To determine whether the neurotoxicity of oligomeric Aβ(1–42) was caused by its oxidative potential, we performed microarray analysis of SN56.B5.G4 cells treated either with oligomeric Aβ(1–42) or H2O2. We showed that genes affected by Aβ(1–42) differed from those affected by non‐specific oxidative stress. Many of the genes affected by Aβ(1–42) were present in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), Golgi apparatus and/or otherwise involved in protein modification and degradation (chaperones, ATF6), indicating a possible role for ER‐mediated stress in Aβ‐mediated toxicity. Moreover, a number of genes, which are known to be involved in AD (clusterin, Slc18a3), were identified. This study provides important leads for the understanding of oligomeric Aβ(1–42) toxicity in cholinergic cells, which may account in part for cholinergic degeneration in AD.
Akt inhibits MLK3/JNK3 signaling by inactivating Rac1: a protective mechanism against ischemic brain injury
Authors: Zhang Quan‐Guang , Wang Xiao‐Tian , Han Dong , Yin Xiao‐Hui , Zhang Guang‐Yi , Xu Tian‐Le
Published: July 2006

The overall goal of this study was to determine the molecular basis by which mixed‐lineage kinase 3 (MLK3) kinase and its signaling pathways are negatively regulated by the pro‐survival Akt pathway in cerebral ischemia. We demonstrated that tyrosine phosphorylation of the phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) underlies the increased Akt‐Ser473 phosphorylation by orthovanadate. Co‐immunoprecipitation analysis revealed that endogenous Akt physically interacts with Rac1 in the hippocampal CA1 region, and this interaction is promoted on tyrosine phosphatase inhibition. The elevated Akt activation can deactivate MLK3 by phosphorylation at the Ser71 residue of Rac1, a small Rho family of guanidine triphosphatases required for MLK3 autophosphorylation. Subsequently, inhibition of c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase 3 (JNK3) results in decreased serine phosphorylation of 14‐3‐3, a cytoplasmic anchor of Bax, and prevents ischemia‐induced mitochondrial translocation of Bax, release of cytochrome c and activation of caspase 3. At the same time, the expression of Fas‐ligand decreases in the CA1 region after inhibition of c‐Jun activation. The neuroprotective effect of Akt activation is significant in the CA1 region after global cerebral ischemia. Our results suggest that the activation of the pro‐apoptotic MLK3/JNK3 cascade induced by ischemic stress can be suppressed through activation of the anti‐apoptotic phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase/Akt pathway, which provides a direct link between Akt and the family of stress‐activated kinases.
Hepatoma‐derived growth factor, a new trophic factor for motor neurons, is up‐regulated in the spinal cord of PQBP‐1 transgenic mice before onset of degeneration
Authors: Marubuchi Shigeki , Okuda Tomohiro , Tagawa Kazuhiko , Enokido Yasushi , Horiuchi Daisuke , Shimokawa Reiko , Tamura Takuya , Qi Mei‐Ling , Eishi Yoshinobu , Watabe Kazuhiko , Shibata Masao , Nakagawa Masaya , Okazawa Hitoshi
Published: July 2006

Hepatoma‐derived growth factor (HDGF) is a nuclear protein homologous to the high‐mobility group B1 family of proteins. It is known to be released from cells and to act as a trophic factor for dividing cells. In this study HDGF was increased in spinal motor neurons of a mouse model of motor neuron degeneration, polyglutamine‐tract‐binding protein‐1 (PQBP‐1) transgenic mice, before onset of degeneration. HDGF promoted neurite extension and survival of spinal motor neurons in primary culture. HDGF repressed cell death of motor neurons after facial nerve section in newborn rats in vivo. We also found a significant increase in p53 in spinal motor neurons of the transgenic mice. p53 bound to a sequence in the upstream of the HDGF gene in a gel mobility shift assay, and promoted gene expression through the cis‐element in chloramphenicol acetyl transfer (CAT) assay. Finally, we found that HDGF was increased in CSF of PQBP‐1 transgenic mice. Collectively, our results show that HDGF is a novel trophic factor for motor neurons and suggest that it might play a protective role against motor neuron degeneration in PQBP‐1 transgenic mice.
PSEUDULVELLA AMERICANA BELONGS TO THE ORDER CHAETOPELTIDALES (CLASS CHLOROPHYCEAE), EVIDENCE FROM ULTRASTRUCTURE AND SSU RDNA SEQUENCE DATA1
Authors: Sanchez‐Puerta M. Virginia , Leonardi Patricia I. , O'Kelly Charles J. , Cáceres Eduardo J.
Published: July 2006

The genus Pseudulvella Wille 1909 includes epiphytic, freshwater, or marine disk‐shaped green microalgae that form quadriflagellate zoospores. No ultrastructural or molecular studies have been conducted on the genus, and its evolutionary relationships remain unclear. The purpose of the present study is to describe the life history, ultrastructural features, and phylogenetic affiliations of Pseudulvella americana (Snow) Wille, the type species of the genus. Thalli of this microalga were prostrate and composed of radiating branched filaments that coalesced to form a disk. Vegetative cells had a pyrenoid encircled by starch plates and traversed by one or two convoluted cytoplasmic channels. They had well‐defined cell walls without plasmodesmata. Asexual reproduction was by means of tetraflagellate zoospores formed in numbers of two to eight from central cells of the thallus. The flagellar apparatus of zoospores was cruciate, with four basal bodies and four microtubular roots. The paired basal bodies lay directly opposite (DO) one another. The microtubular root system had a 5‐2‐5‐2 alternation pattern, where the “s” roots contained five microtubules in a four‐over‐one configuration. A tetralobate nonstriated distal fiber connected all four basal bodies. A wedge‐shaped proximal sheath subtended each of the basal bodies. The ultrastructural features of the zoospores were those of members of the order Chaetopeltidales. Phylogenetic analyses based on SSU rDNA placed P. americana sister to Chaetopeltis orbicularis in a well‐supported Chaetopeltidales clade. Such a combination of features confirmed that this alga is a member of the order Chaetopeltidales.
Decomposition Reactions in CaCu3Ti4O12 Ceramics
Authors: Adams Timothy B. , Sinclair Derek C. , West Anthony R.
Published: July 2006

CaCu3Ti4O12 (CCTO) ceramics sintered in air at 1115°C for 3 and 24 h have been heat treated in N2 at 1000°C. Surface layers develop on the outer regions of the ceramics, and a combination of X‐ray diffraction and analytical electron microscopy has been used to establish the phase content of the layers. A model to explain the formation of the surface layers is proposed based on decomposition of CCTO into a mixture of CaTiO3, TiO2, and Cu2O. The role of limited decomposition in the development of electrically inhomogeneous CCTO ceramics prepared at elevated temperatures in air is discussed.
A Comparison of Animal Jaws and Bite Mark Patterns*
Authors: Murmann Denise C. , Brumit Paula C. , Schrader Bruce A. , Senn David R.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: The purpose of this study was to compare the jaw shapes and bite mark patterns of wild and domestic animals to assist investigators in their analysis of animal bite marks. The analyses were made on 12 species in the Order Carnivora housed in the Mammalian Collection at the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago, Illinois. In addition to metric analysis, one skull from each species was photographed as a representative sample with an ABFO No. 2 scale in place. Bite patterns of the maxillary and mandibular dentition were documented using foamed polystyrene exemplars, which were also photographed. A total of 486 specimens were examined to analyze the jaw and bite mark patterns. A modified technique for measuring intercanine distances was developed to more accurately reflect the characteristics seen in animal bite marks. In it, three separate areas were measured on the canines, rather than just the cusp tip. This was to maximize the amount of information acquired from each skull, specifically to accommodate variances in the depth of bite injuries.
Examination of a “Velasco” Signature on an Oil Painting
Authors: Lines Sandra Ramsey
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: In September 2003, an investor bought an oil painting at auction in Denmark. The painting was signed “José Maria Velasco.” The investor attempted to sell the painting in the United States, but found that he needed confirmation that this was an authentic Velasco painting. The provenance of the painting was questionable because it came to Europe from Cuba without appropriate documentation including the date of its entry into the European market. If the signature was determined to be authentic, the painting would have an approximate value of 1 million dollars. Initial research on the life and works of the artist and a literature review resulted in the preparation of an “Art Worksheet.” Known signature specimens were obtained from reputable sources. A comparison of the known signatures with the questioned signature concluded the questioned signature was very probably not executed by José Maria Velasco.
Cerebral Hypoxia and Ischemia: The Forensic Point of View: A Review
Authors: Oechmichen Manfred , Meissner Christoph
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: In cases with suspected brain anoxia/ischemia and hypoxia/hypoxemia a neuropathological investigation should give additional information to elucidate the cause of death and its pathophysiological mechanisms. Primary ischemic brain damage is associated with morphological and biochemical alterations. While acute ischemic neuronal injury reveals axon sparing and selective neuronal lesions due to the release of large quantities of glutamate, late neuronal death is associated with antiapoptotic growth factors, and decreased expression of microtubule‐associated proteins and tubulin. On the morphological level ischemia can be detected by necrosis of neurons, proliferation of microglia, and astrocytes in vulnerable regions of the brain. In cases of permanent ischemia the so‐called pale nervous cell injury is observed, in cases of partial perfusion the so‐called dark nerve cell injury and apoptosis are detectable. In spite of the considerable advantages of recent research, presently there is no reliable qualitative marker to ascertain death due to acute hypoxic or ischemic events.
Beyond the Sphere of the English Facial Approximation Literature: Ramifications of German Papers on Western Method Concepts*
Authors: Stephan Carl N.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: In the English literature, facial approximation methods have been commonly classified into three types: “Russian,”“American,” or “Combination.” These categorizations are based on the protocols used, for example, whether methods use average soft‐tissue depths (American methods) or require face muscle construction (Russian methods). However, literature searches outside the usual realm of English publications reveal key papers that demonstrate that the Russian category above has been founded on distorted views. In reality, Russian methods are based on limited face muscle construction, with heavy reliance on modified average soft‐tissue depths. A closer inspection of the American method also reveals inconsistencies with the recognized classification scheme. This investigation thus demonstrates that all major methods of facial approximation depend on both face anatomy and average soft‐tissue depths, rendering common method classification schemes redundant. The best way forward appears to be for practitioners to describe the methods they use (including the weight each one gives to average soft‐tissue depths and deep face tissue construction) without placing them in any categorical classificatory group or giving them an ambiguous name. The state of this situation may need to be reviewed in the future in light of new research results and paradigms.
Relative Degradation of Nuclear and Mitochondrial DNA: An Experimental Approach*
Authors: Foran David R.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: Single copy nuclear loci often cannot be amplified from degraded remains, necessitating the analysis of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). The success in analyzing mtDNA is generally thought to result from its higher copy number in the cell; however, other factors, such as cellular location or molecular features, may be equally or more important in the superior preservation of mtDNA. To explore and compare mtDNA and nuclear DNA degradation, mouse tissues (muscle, liver, and brain) were allowed to degrade at different temperatures, and the relative degradation of a mitochondrial gene, a single copy nuclear gene, and a multi‐copy nuclear gene was assayed using real‐time polymerase chain reaction. The tissues were also homogenized, allowing the three loci to degrade in the same cellular environment. Gene copy number and cellular location both influence DNA recovery. In some instances, multi‐copy loci could be recovered when the single copy locus could not; however, the pattern of relative DNA degradation changed between whole and homogenized tissues. The overall results indicate that DNA degradation is influenced by multiple factors—including cellular location, chromatin structure, and transcriptional activity—factors that could be used to exploit loci for more robust forensic analysis from degraded biological material.
Development of a Human‐Specific Real‐Time PCR Assay for the Simultaneous Quantitation of Total Genomic and Male DNA*
Authors: Horsman Katie M. , Hickey Jeffrey A. , Cotton Robin W. , Landers James P. , Maddox Lewis O.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: A duplex real‐time quantitative PCR assay was developed for forensic DNA analysis, which provides simultaneous quantitation of total genomic human DNA and human male DNA. The assay utilizes two spectrally resolved fluorogenic probes in a 5′ nuclease (TaqMan™) assay. Within the range of organisms empirically tested and based upon theoretical specificity using National Center for Biotechnology Information GenBank sequences, primer and probe sequences were shown to be human specific, and the Y‐chromosome probe, male‐specific. A mixture‐challenge study resulted in accurate quantitation of 25 pg male DNA in a mixture of up to 1:5000 (male:female DNA). Additional experimental results include comparisons with the slot blot method and commercial real‐time PCR kits. The assay developed addresses the shortcomings of the traditional slot blot method as well as the commercial real‐time PCR kits. This method is shown to be specific, relatively simple, rapid, has low limits of detection, and consumes limited sample in addition to reporting both the male and total genomic DNA concentrations present.
Allelic Variation at ACTBP2 Microsatellite for Two Indian Tribal Groups
Authors: Ghosh Anu , Seshadri M.
Published: July 2006

POPULATION: Two tribal populations, Bison Horn Maria (N=49) and Muria (N=52) from Bastar district in Central India.
Distribution of GATA86C08, GATA158G03, D11S2001 Alleles in Chinese Population Sample
Authors: Long Bing , Wang Jing , Liu Zhiyong , Chen Guodi , Yu Lin , Luo Yang , Song Yanhua , Zhang Lin
Published: July 2006

POPULATIONS: Chinese.
Allele Frequencies for Three STR Loci D3S4551, D11S4465, and D18S973 in Chinese Population
Authors: Gao Shuang , Wu Wei , Yun Li Bing , Li Ying Bi , Zhang Lin , Jiang Shi , Wu Jin , Ye Yi , Luo Hai Bo , Hou Yi Ping
Published: July 2006

POPULATIONS: Chinese Han.
A five‐year life‐table analysis on wide neck ITI implants with prosthetic evaluation and radiographic analysis: results from a private practice
Authors: Bischof Mark , Nedir Rabah , Abi Najm Simon , Szmukler‐Moncler Serge , Samson Jacky
Published: July 2006

Abstract: This paper reports a 5‐year life‐table analysis on wide neck (WN) ITI implants placed in a private practice. In 212 patients, 263 implants were placed in the posterior region; 97% rehabilitated the molar area. Implants in the mandible and in the maxilla were 61.2% and 38.8%, respectively; the mean implant length was 9.7 and 8.9 mm, respectively. Eighty‐nine percent sites had both vestibular and buccal bone lamellae ≥1 mm, 9.1% had one of them <1 mm and 1.9% had both lamellae <1 mm. Sinus perforation during surgery occured in 52% of the maxillary implants. Prosthetic information was available for 249 implants; implants were involved in 157 single crowns (SC) and 80 fixed partial dentures (FPD). Radiographic analysis was performed on 102 implants that reached the 2‐year control, and crestal bone loss (CBL) was measured. Results showed that five implants failed; the 5‐year cumulative survival rate was 97.89%. The 1‐year survival rate based on 259 implants was 98.8% and the 2‐year survival rate based on 174 implants was 97.7%. In this 5‐year timeframe, 94.3% of the SCs and 96.2% of the FPDs were free of complication. The mean CBL at the mesial and distal sides was 0.71 and 0.60 mm, respectively; bone losses >1 and >2 mm were recorded for 29.7% and 2.5% of the sides, respectively. This mid‐term study showed that the WN ITI implants were highly predictable in private practice and that prosthetic complication in the molar area was an infrequent event.
Lymphedematous HIV‐associated Kaposi's sarcoma
Authors: Ramdial Pratistadevi K. , Chetty Runjan , Singh Bhugwan , Singh Rajendrakumar , Aboobaker Jamila
Published: July 2006

Background:  Advanced Kaposi's sarcoma is frequently associated with chronic lymphedema (cLO). The histopathological features of lymphedematous HIV‐associated KS (KS) are poorly documented and the co‐existence of fibroma‐like nodules in lymphedematous KS is under‐recognized. The aims of this study were to assess the clinicopathological spectrum and diagnostic difficulties associated with lymphedematous KS and to highlight the clinicopathological profile of fibroma‐like nodules. In addition, the pathogenesis of fibroma‐like nodules and cLO is revisited.

Materials and methods:  Prospective 17‐month clinicopathological study of all biopsies from patients with lymphedematous KS.

Results:  Seventy‐four biopsies, the majority from the lower limbs, from 41 patients were evaluated. Nineteen, 14, five and three patients had one, two, three or four biopsies each, respectively. In 14 biopsies, there was poor clinicopathological correlation of KS stage. Exclusive lesional KS (patch, plaque, nodule or lymphangioma‐like) was identified in 29 biopsies; 23 and eight biopsies demonstrated KS or fibroma‐like morphology and the adjacent dermis demonstrated cLO. There was variable intratumoral and peritumoral venous compression and lymphatic dilatation. Fourteen biopsies demonstrated cLO exclusively. Smaller fibroma‐like nodules lacked KS spindle cells, whereas >5 mm nodules demonstrated focal KS spindle cell proliferation and aggregation on extensive sectioning. The subcutis of 42 biopsies demonstrated variable fibrosis, hemosiderin deposits, lymphocytes, plasma cells, KS, interstitial granular material and pools of lymph fluid. Subcutaneous abscesses were identified in six biopsies. All biopsies had variable epidermal features of cLO.

Conclusions:  cLO influences clinicopathological correlation of KS stage and may also mask the presence of KS and the co‐existence of subcutaneous abscesses. Smaller fibroma‐like nodules are hypothesized to be a manifestation of cLO that have the potential to acquire the characteristics of KS. Lymphatic and venous obstruction, protein‐rich interstitial fluid, tissue hemosiderin and subcutaneous infection are hypothesized to play a combined role in the evolution and perpetuation of cLO.
Cutaneous marginal zone B‐cell lymphoma in the setting of fluoxetine therapy: a hypothesis regarding pathogenesis based on in vitro suppression of T‐cell‐proliferative response
Authors: Breza Thomas S. , Zheng Pan , Porcu Pierluigi , Magro Cynthia M.
Published: July 2006

Introduction:  Drugs may be an important cause of atypical lymphocytic infiltration. Oftentimes, these infiltrates are in the context of pseudolymphomata. We report a patient who developed lymphocytoma cutis temporally associated with initiation of fluoxetine therapy that later went on to develop cutaneous marginal zone B‐cell lymphoma. The response of peripheral blood lymphocytes to fluoxetine and other drugs was examined in an attempt to ascertain the potential role for drugs in the propagation of these infiltrates.

Materials and Methods:  Routine light microscopic analysis and phenotypic studies were performed on tissue obtained from a skin biopsy. Lymphocyte mitogenic studies were carried out using increasing concentrations of fluoxetine, bupropion, and two anticonvulsants.

Results:  An initial biopsy was consistent with lymphocytoma cutis. The patient stopped fluoxetine associated with lesional regression. The lesions recurred despite being off fluoxetine; a repeat biopsy was compatible with marginal zone lymphoma. Lymphocyte proliferation assays revealed a suppressive effect on T‐lymphocyte proliferation at physiologic concentrations. Other tested drugs did not have a similar suppressive effect.

Conclusion:  Fluoxetine may be associated with pseudolymphomata and marginal zone lymphoma. The inhibitory effects on T‐lymphocyte function and more specifically T‐suppressor function may lead to excessive antigen‐driven B‐cell proliferation.
Atypical nevi of the scalp in adolescents
Authors: Fabrizi Giujeppe , Pagliarello Calogero , Parente Paola , Massi Guido
Published: July 2006

Background:  A few reports in the literature point out that in special areas of the body, nevi can have peculiar pseudomelanomatous features. In our routine work, we have met few examples of atypical nevi with peculiar features on the scalp of teenagers. To evaluate the frequency and the biological behaviour of these lesions, we have conducted a complete survey on melanocytic lesions on the scalp in a significant group of patients.

Materials and methods:  Thirty‐nine nevi of the scalp were from adolescents (12–18 years), 160 from adults, and 30 from children below the age of 12 years.

Results:  About 10% of the melanocytic nevi of the scalp of adolescents have atypical cytological and architectural aspects that are different from those seen in Clark’s dysplastic nevus. The most striking features were the presence of large bizarrely shaped nests scattered disorderly along the junction with follicular involvement. Other findings were pagetoid spread of cells above the junction and the discohesive pattern of the melanocytes in the nests. Mild cytological atypia was present but less significant. Such distinctive aspects are not found in nevi of the same site in adults or younger children. The general pattern of these atypical nevi of the scalp of adolescents closely recalls that of the so‐called atypical nevi on special sites, i.e. nevi on mammary line, genitalia and body’s folds. Despite the architectural and cytological atypia, clinical follow‐up does not show any tendency to recur or proclivity to malignant behaviour.

Conclusions:  Despite their similarities with melanoma, the nevi with atypical features of the scalp of adolescents are probably an entirely benign entity, at least at the moment of their excision. However, although benign, the relationship of this peculiar group of nevi with melanomas developed in adulthood remains entirely unknown, and the complete excision with conservative margins seems a recommendable procedure.
Systemic vaccination prevents the total destruction of mucosal CD4 T cells during acute SIV challenge
Authors: Mattapallil Joseph J. , Hill Brenna , Douek Daniel C. , Roederer Mario
Published: July 2006

Background  Acute human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infections are accompanied by a systemic loss of memory CD4 T cells, with mucosal sites serving as a major site for viral replication, dissemination and CD4 T cell depletion. Protecting the mucosal CD4 T cell compartment thus is critical to contain HIV, and preserve the integrity of the mucosal immune system. The primary objective of this study was to determine if systemic vaccination with DNA/rAd‐5 encoding SIV‐mac239‐env, gag and pol could prevent the destruction of CD4 T cells in mucosal tissues.

Methods  Rhesus macaques were immunized with DNA/r‐Ad‐5 encoding SIV genes and compared with those immunized with sham vectors following high dose intravenous challenge with SIVmac251. SIV specific CD4 and CD8 T cell responses, cell associated viral loads and mucosal CD4 T cell dynamics were evaluated.

Results  Strong SIV specific immune responses were induced in mucosal tissues of vaccinated animals as compared with sham controls. These responses expanded rapidly following challenge suggesting a strong anamnestic response. Immune responses were associated with a decrease in cell associated viral loads, and a loss of fewer mucosal CD4 T cells. Approximately 25% of mucosal CD4 T cells were preserved in vaccinated animals as compared with <5% in sham controls. These results demonstrate that systemic immunization strategies can induce immune responses in mucosal tissues that can protect mucosal CD4 T cells from complete destruction following challenge.

Conclusions  Preservation of mucosal CD4 T cells can contribute to maintaining immune competence in mucosal tissues and provide a substantial immune benefit to the vaccinees.
Morphometric and hormonal changes during the Chimpanzee menstrual cycle
Authors: Machatschke Ivo H. , Dittami John , Wallner Bernard
Published: July 2006

Background  Sex steroids affect many peripheral tissue sites in female mammals. Receptors for these hormones have been found in skin, fat, and bone. In women, these tissues can show morphological changes during the menstrual cycle that may be directly related to steroid secretion.

Methods The present study was done on chimpanzees to document morphometric markers associated with these tissues (anogenital swelling volume, skin fold thickness as indicator of subcutaneous fat, bony diameters of mandible, wrist, and elbow) and to compare them with cyclic patterns of estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, gonadotropins, and prolactin.

Results  Swelling volume changed significantly over the menstrual cycle. All other morphometric parameters showed variation without statistical significance. Skin folds were thickest during the luteal phase. Bony diameters displayed similar but less distinctive changes. Testosterone correlated positively with diameter sites, inversely with subcutaneous fat. No relationships with either estradiol or progesterone were found. We assume that subcutaneous fat and morphometric bone parameters exhibit cycle‐dependent changes that may be caused by changes in steroid secretion.
Effects of three mydriatic drug regimens on pupil size in rhesus (Macaca mulatta) and African green monkeys (Chlorocebus aethiops)
Authors: Merrill N.L. , Burge R.
Published: July 2006

Background  Human mydriatric drug use in non‐human primates (NHPs) has been documented but not quantified and compared for effectiveness. The objective of this study was to determine which drug regimen provided the most effective and consistent mydriatic effect for ophthalmologic examinations and other procedures. Secondary objectives were to determine average time to maximum dilation and whether species differences existed.

Methods  Twelve rhesus and 12 African green monkeys were randomly assigned to one of six treatment combinations to test the mydriatic effects of three drug regimens: (1) tropicamide 1% (T); (2) tropicamide 1% and phenylephrine hydrochloride 2.5% (TP); and (3) tropicamide 1%, phenylephrine HCL 2.5% and cyclopentolate 1% (TPC). Left and right eyes of each monkey received a different drug regimen, depending on random assignment.

Results  TPC showed a significantly larger mydriatic response in both species than T alone. Average time to maximum dilation with all three drug regimens was 50–60 minutes. Rhesus had a larger response to the mydriatic drug regimens than the African green monkeys.

Conclusions  The TPC regimen had the largest and longest lasting mydriatic effect in both species.
Initiation of antiretroviral therapy during chronic SIV infection leads to rapid reduction in viral loads and the level of T‐cell immune response
Authors: Boyer Jean D. , Kumar Sanjeev , Robinson Tara , Parkinson Rose , Wu Ling , Lewis Mark , Watkins David I. , Weiner David B.
Published: July 2006

In the present era of increasing resistance of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) to antiviral drugs, exploration of adjunct therapies directed at immune responses in combination with antiretroviral drugs may be of value for the treatment of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. In this study, we designed a model for immune therapy using SIVmac251 infection in rhesus macaques. We explored the outcomes of primary infection on viral loads and the resulting T‐cell immune responses in primates. The SIV‐infected rhesus macaque model exhibited features similar to those observed in HIV‐1 infection of humans. Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) segregation with viral loads were found to associate with viral containment and hence the duration of the disease‐free latency period. Thus a better understanding of the relative roles of MHC class I allele in control of viral replication may provide important information for prophylactic or therapeutic vaccine designs. Mamu‐A01 is significantly associated with higher immune response and control of viral replication. This allele is frequent in rhesus macaques of Indian origin (22%). Interestingly, Mamu‐B01 (26% animals) was associated with lower immune responses and higher viral loads. Another allele, A08 was also predominantly present in 37% of the animals in this study. We observed higher viral replication in individual SIV‐infected rhesus monkeys that did not demonstrate strong cellular immune responses. The results are important for understanding SIV disease progression in different MHC Mamu alleles and also for improving the interpretation and quality of pre‐clinical studies in rhesus monkeys.
Gene expression profiling of gut mucosa and mesenteric lymph nodes in simian immunodeficiency virus‐infected macaques with divergent disease course
Authors: George M.D. , Verhoeven D. , McBride Z. , Dandekar S.
Published: July 2006

Background  Although the majority of drug‐naïve HIV‐infected patients develop acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), a small percentage remains asymptomatic without therapeutic intervention.

Methods  We have utilized the simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV)‐infected rhesus macaque model to gain insights into the molecular mechanisms of long‐term protection against simian AIDS.

Results  Chronically SIV‐infected macaques with disease progression had high viral loads and CD4+ T‐cell depletion in mucosal tissue and peripheral blood. These animals displayed pathologic changes in gut‐associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) and mesenteric lymph node that coincided with increased expression of genes associated with interferon induction, inflammation and immune activation. In contrast, the animal with long‐term asymptomatic infection suppressed viral replication and maintained CD4+ T cells in both GALT and peripheral blood while decreasing expression of genes involved in inflammation and immune activation.

Conclusions  Our findings suggest that reduced immune activation and effective repair and regeneration of mucosal tissues correlate with long‐term survival in SIV‐infected macaques.
A COMBINATION OF GLUTAMINASE AND pH CONTROL PREVENTS THE NONENZYMATIC CONVERSION OF l‐GLUTAMINE INTO l‐2‐PYRROLIDINE‐5‐CARBOXYLIC ACID IN FOOD PROCESSING
Authors: YOSHIMUNE KAZUAKI , ABE TAKURO , MORIGUCHI MITSUAKI
Published: July 2006

A strategy using Alicyclobacillus F‐62 glutaminase was established to minimize the nonenzymatic production of l‐2‐pyrrolidine‐5‐carboxylic acid (l‐pyroglutamic acid, savorless amino acid) and maximize the enzymatic production of l‐glutamic acid (savorous [umami] amino acid) from l‐glutamine in food‐protein processing. The nonenzymatic production rate of l‐pyroglutamic acid was influenced by pH and temperature, and decreased over a pH range of 4–6 at 30C. Under optimum conditions (30C and pH 5.0), the l‐glutamic and l‐pyroglutamic acids obtained from 1 mM l‐glutamine in the presence of glutaminase from Alicyclobacillus F‐62 were 0.96 and 0.03 mM, respectively. This novel method is useful for the efficient production of l‐glutamic acid during food‐protein processing.
MODELING AND OPTIMIZATION OF OSMOTIC DEHYDRATION OF BANANA FOLLOWED BY AIR DRYING
Authors: OLIVEIRA ISADORA M. , FERNANDES FABIANO A.N. , RODRIGUES SUELI , SOUSA PAULO H.M. , MAIA GERALDO A. , FIGUEIREDO RAIMUNDO W.
Published: July 2006

The process of osmotic dehydration followed by air drying was studied, modeled and optimized for the dehydration of bananas, which are an extremely perishable fruit unable to withstand freezing and, as such, need to be dried in order to preserve the fruit for later use. The mathematical model was validated with experimental data and the simulations show how the operating conditions affect the process. Process optimization was performed to obtain the best operating conditions that would reduce the total processing time. The results show the advantage of using moderate to high sucrose concentrations (55–65°Brix) for the osmotic solution, reduced pressure and the use of the osmotic treatment to reduce the total processing time of fruit drying.
CONJUGATE HEAT TRANSFER ASSOCIATED WITH A TURBULENT HOT AIR JET IMPINGING ON A CYLINDRICAL OBJECT
Authors: NITIN N. , GADIRAJU R.P. , KARWE M.V.
Published: July 2006

Numerical simulation of flow field and thermal transport processes for a turbulent jet impinging on the surface of a cylindrical object, e.g., hot dog, were carried out at different jet velocities. Numerical predictions for average surface heat transfer coefficient were compared with the experimental results obtained using a lumped mass approach for model aluminum cylinders. Results indicated good agreement between the numerical and experimental results over the range of jet velocities, i.e., 10–40 m/s. Further experiments were carried out with real beef hotdogs to obtain center point temperature–time history during hot air impingement baking process. The experimental data agreed well with the numerical predictions when the impinging jet temperature was below 100C.
THE EFFECT OF FERMENTATION ON CASSAVA STARCH MICROSTRUCTURE
Authors: MARCON M.J.A. , VIEIRA M.A. , SANTOS K. , DE SIMAS K.N. , DIAS DE MELLO CASTANHO AMBONI R. , AMANTE E.R.
Published: July 2006

The effect of glucose syrup addition on sour cassava starch fermentation was studied on cassava starch from three locations in Santa Catarina State (Brazil), following four treatments: traditional, 0.10, 0.25 and 0.50% of glucose syrup added to total cassava suspension volume. A glucose syrup concentration of 0.50% contributed to doubling fermentation yield. The objective of this work was to observe the effect of the cassava starch fermentation process on starch granule microstructure, as compared with industrial processing. Micrography was performed using a scanning electron microscope, at 2000× magnification. Fermentations with 0.50% glucose syrup presented the greatest effects on starch granule microstructure.
Properties of Alaska Pollock Skin Gelatin: A Comparison with Tilapia and Pork Skin Gelatins
Authors: Zhou Peng , Mulvaney Steven J. , Regenstein Joe M.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT:  The objective of this work was to compare the physiochemical and rheological properties of Alaska pollock skin gelatin (AG) to those obtained for tilapia and pork skin gelatins. Results were also obtained for some mixed gels containing AG and pork skin gelatin, or AG and tilapia gelatin. AG contained about 7% hydroxyproline (Hyp), which was lower than that of tilapia (∼11%) or pork skin gelatin (∼13%). Most of the protein fractions in AG were α chain, β chain, and other oligomers. The gel strength of AG was 98 gram‐force at 10 °C, and increased at a greater rate than other gelatins with decreasing temperature. The gel melting point of AG was the lowest with the oil‐drop method, while the viscosity of AG was the highest of the samples studied. The rheological properties of gelatins were determined using small amplitude oscillatory shear testing. G′ was nearly independent of frequency for most of the gelatin gels, but AG gels showed a slight dependence on G′ and a minimum in G″. G′ was found to be a power law function of concentration for all gelatins used: G′= k × Cn. In rheological measurements, AG also showed the lowest gel melting temperature and sharpest melting region. Increasing gelatin concentration resulted in a higher melting temperature and a broader melting region for all gelatin gels. For both the AG‐pork and AG‐tilapia mixed gels, the gel melting temperatures decreased and melting regions narrowed as the AG fraction was increased.
The Vacuole System Is a Significant Intracellular Pathway for Longitudinal Solute Transport in Basidiomycete Fungi
Authors: Darrah P. R. , Tlalka M. , Ashford A. , Watkinson S. C. , Fricker M. D.
Published: July 2006

Mycelial
fungi have a growth form which is unique among multicellular organisms.
The data presented here suggest that they have developed a unique
solution to internal solute translocation involving a complex, extended
vacuole. In all filamentous fungi examined, this extended vacuole forms
an interconnected network, dynamically linked by tubules, which has
been hypothesized to act as an internal distribution system. We have
tested this hypothesis directly by quantifying solute movement within
the organelle by photobleaching a fluorescent vacuolar marker.
Predictive simulation models were then used to determine the transport
characteristics over extended length scales. This modeling showed that
the vacuolar organelle forms a functionally important, bidirectional
diffusive transport pathway over distances of millimeters to
centimeters. Flux through the pathway is regulated by the dynamic
tubular connections involving homotypic fusion and fission. There is
also a strongly predicted interaction among vacuolar organization,
predicted diffusion transport distances, and the architecture of the
branching colony
margin.
Function of Ammonium Transporter A in the Initiation of Culmination of Development in
Dictyostelium discoideum
Authors: Singleton Charles K. , Kirsten Janet H. , Dinsmore Colin J.
Published: July 2006

The histidine kinase DhkC controls a phosphorelay involved in regulating the slug versus culmination choice during the multicellular developmental program of
Dictyostelium discoideum
. When the relay is active, slug migration is favored due to the activation of a cyclic AMP (cAMP) phosphodiesterase and the resultant lowering of the intracellular and extracellular levels of cAMP. Ammonia signaling represents one input into the DhkC phosphorelay, and previous studies indicated that the ammonium transporter C inhibits the relay in response to low ammonia levels. Evidence is presented that another member of the family of ammonium transporters, AmtA, also regulates the slug/culmination choice. Under standard conditions of development, the wild-type strain requires a transitional period of 2 to 3 h to go from fingers to culminants, with some slugs forming and migrating briefly prior to culmination. In contrast,
amtA
null cells, like cells that lack DhkC, possessed a transitional period of only 1 to 2 h and rarely formed slugs. Disruption of
amtA
in an
amtC
null strain overcame the slugger phenotype of that strain and restored its ability to culminate. Strains lacking AmtA were insensitive to the ability of ammonia to promote and prolong slug migration. These findings lead to the proposal that AmtA functions in ammonia sensing as an activator of the DhkC phosphorelay in response to perceived high ammonia levels.
TFIIA Plays a Role in the Response to Oxidative Stress
Authors: Kraemer Susan M. , Goldstrohm David A. , Berger Ann , Hankey Susan , Rovinsky Sherry A. , Scott Moye-Rowley W. , Stargell Laurie A.
Published: July 2006

To characterize the role of the general transcription factor TFIIA in the regulation of gene expression by RNA polymerase II, we examined the transcriptional profiles of TFIIA mutants of
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
using DNA microarrays. Whole-genome expression profiles were determined for three different mutants with mutations in the gene coding for the small subunit of TFIIA,
TOA2
. Depending on the particular mutant strain, approximately 11 to 27% of the expressed genes exhibit altered message levels. A search for common motifs in the upstream regions of the pool of genes decreased in all three mutants yielded the binding site for Yap1, the transcription factor that regulates the response to oxidative stress. Consistent with a TFIIA-Yap1 connection, the TFIIA mutants are unable to grow under conditions that require the oxidative stress response. Underexpression of Yap1-regulated genes in the TFIIA mutant strains is not the result of decreased expression of Yap1 protein, since immunoblot analysis indicates similar amounts of Yap1 in the wild-type and mutant strains. In addition, intracellular localization studies indicate that both the wild-type and mutant strains localize Yap1 indistinguishably in response to oxidative stress. As such, the decrease in transcription of Yap1-dependent genes in the TFIIA mutant strains appears to reflect a compromised interaction between Yap1 and TFIIA. This hypothesis is supported by the observations that Yap1 and TFIIA interact both in vivo and in vitro. Taken together, these studies demonstrate a dependence of Yap1 on TFIIA function and highlight a new role for TFIIA in the cellular mechanism of defense against reactive oxygen species.
Sequential Processing of a Mitochondrial Tandem Protein: Insights into Protein Import in
Schizosaccharomyces pombe
Authors: Khalimonchuk Oleh , Ott Martin , Funes Soledad , Ostermann Kai , Rödel Gerhard , Herrmann Johannes M.
Published: July 2006

The sequencing of the genome of
Schizosaccharomyces pombe
revealed
the presence of a number of genes encoding tandem proteins, some of
which are mitochondrial components. One of these proteins
(pre-Rsm22-Cox11) consists of a fusion of Rsm22, a component of the
mitochondrial ribosome, and Cox11, a factor required for copper
insertion into cytochrome oxidase. Since in
Saccharomyces
cerevisiae
, Cox11 is physically attached to the mitochondrial
ribosome, it was suggested that the tandem organization of Rsm22-Cox11
is used to covalently tie the mitochondrial ribosome to Cox11 in
S.
pombe
. We report here that pre-Rsm22-Cox11 is matured in two
subsequent processing events. First, the mitochondrial presequence is
removed. At a later stage of the import process, the Rsm22 and Cox11
domains are separated by cleavage of the mitochondrial processing
peptidase at an internal processing site. In vivo data obtained using a
tagged version of pre-Rsm22-Cox11 confirmed the proteolytic separation
of Cox11 from the Rsm22 domain. Hence, the tandem organization of
pre-Rsm22-Cox11 does not give rise to a persistent fusion protein but
rather might be used to increase the import efficiency of Cox11 and/or
to coordinate expression levels of Rsm22 and Cox11 in
S.
pombe
.
THE SYNTACTIC GRAPH OF A SOFIC SHIFT IS INVARIANT UNDER SHIFT EQUIVALENCE
Authors: BÉAL MARIE-PIERRE , FIORENZI FRANCESCA , PERRIN DOMINIQUE
Published: July 2006

We define a new invariant for shift equivalence of sofic shifts. This invariant, which we call the syntactic graph of a sofic shift, is the directed acyclic graph of characteristic groups of the non-null regular [Formula: see text]-classes of the syntactic semigroup of the shift.
SUBSPACES, FREE SUBGROUPS AND A THEOREM OF STALLINGS
Authors: BAUMSLAG GILBERT
Published: July 2006

There is a simple group-theoretic formula for the second integral homology group of a group. This is an abelian group and there is an analogous formula for another abelian group, which involves a normal subgroup N of a torsion-free nilpotent group G. Properties of this abelian group translate into properties of G/N. This approach allows one to give a simple purely group-theoretic proof of an old theorem of J. R. Stallings, namely that if Γ is a group, if H1(G,ℤ) is free abelian and if H2(G,ℤ) = 0, then any subset Y of G which is independent modulo the derived group of G, freely generates a free group. The ideas used admit to considerable generalization, yielding in particular, proofs of a number of theorems of U. Stammbach.
INTERACTION OF TWO SIMILAR PLANE DOUBLE LAYERS FOR CaCl2-TYPE ASYMMETRIC ELECTROLYTES AT POSITIVE SURFACE POTENTIAL
Authors: ZHANG SHIMIN
Published: July 2006

The interaction energies between two similar plane double layers for CaCl 2-type asymmetric electrolytes at positive surface potential are expanded in the power series at lower potential and smaller absolute value of integral constant as well as higher potential and larger absolute value of integral constant, respectively. When dimensionless surface potential y0 ≤ 20, the number of the series terms required to obtain the interaction energies with six significant digits are not more than eight if higher potential expressions are combined with lower potential expressions. The accurate numerical results are given and they can be used to check up the validity of approximate expressions that will be obtained. The present results are also fit for Na 2 SO 4-type asymmetric electrolytes at negative surface potential.