bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laryngocoele as an unusual complication of supracricoid partial laryngectomy: evaluation of 62 cases
Authors: Naiboglu B , Aslan I , Oysu C , Zer Toros S , Durmus R , Egeli E
Published: February 2010

Background:

This study sought to evaluate the incidence, aetiology, clinical features and treatment modalities for laryngocoele formation after supracricoid partial laryngectomy.

Methods:

The medical charts of 62 patients who had undergone supracricoid partial laryngectomy were reviewed.

Results:

Three patients developed laryngocoele, giving an incidence of 4.8 per cent. Two of these patients presented with a cervical mass, dyspnoea and fever. The mobility of the arytenoids was disturbed on the involved side. The third patient was admitted complaining only of a compressible cervical mass. In all patients, diagnosis was made by computed tomography scan. The transcervical surgical approach was preferred for resection.

Conclusion:

Laryngocoele can occur as a late complication of supracricoid partial laryngectomy. Remnants of the laryngeal ventricle may be the cause of laryngocoele formation. The integrity of the laryngeal ventricle in the resected specimen should be routinely checked in order to avoid this rare complication. Clinicians should be aware that, following supracricoid partial laryngectomy, a cervical mass presenting with dyspnoea and disturbance of arytenoid mobility does not always indicate tumour recurrence.
Relativistic filamentary equilibria
Authors: GEDALIN M. , SPITKOVSKY A. , MEDVEDEV M. , BALIKHIN M. , KRASNOSELSKIKH V. , VAIVADS A. , PERRI S.
Published: February 2010

Plasma filamentation is often encountered in collisionless shocks and inertial confinement fusion. We develop a general analytical description of the two-dimensional relativistic filamentary equilibrium and derive the conditions for existence of potential-free equilibria. A pseudopotential equation for the vector-potential is constructed for cold and relativistic Maxwellian distributions. The role of counter-streaming is explained. We present single current sheet and periodic current sheet solutions, and analyze the equilibria with electric potential. These solutions can be used to study linear and nonlinear evolution of the relativistic filamentation instability.
Schistosoma mansoni: signal transduction processes during the development of the reproductive organs
Authors: BECKMANN S. , QUACK T. , BURMEISTER C. , BURO C. , LONG T. , DISSOUS C. , GREVELDING C. G.
Published: February 2010

Among the topics of considerable interest concerning our understanding of the unusual biology of schistosomes is the sexual maturation of the female. The identification of genes coding for signal transduction proteins controlling essential steps of the pairing-dependent differentiation of the reproductive organs, vitellarium and ovary will help to substantiate our knowledge about this unique parasite. Furthermore, such signalling proteins could be potential targets to interfere with the development of this parasite to combat schistosomiasis since its pathology is caused by the eggs. This review summarises first post-genomic steps to elucidate the function of gonad-specific signalling molecules which were identified by homology-based cloning strategies, byin silicoidentification or by yeast two-hybrid interaction analyses, using a combination of novel techniques. These include thein vitroculture of adult schistosomes, their treatment with chemical inhibitors to block enzyme activity, the use of RNAi to silence gene function post-transcriptionally, and confocal laser scanning microscopy to study the morphological consequences of these experimental approaches. Finally, we propose a first model of protein networks that are active in the ovary regulating mitogenic activity and differentiation. Some of these molecules are also active in the testes of males, probably fulfilling similar roles as in the ovary.
Exploring perspectives of environmental best management practices in Thai agriculture: an application of Q-methodology
Authors: BUMBUDSANPHAROKE WIMOLPAT , MORAN DOMINIC , HALL CLARE
Published: February 2010

In Thailand, horticultural practices are a significant source of non-point source (NPS) pollution, and the government is considering best management practices (BMPs) as control measures for reducing agricultural NPS pollution to water. A prevailing assumption that farmers’ reactions to regulations will be homogenous is not based on underlying insights into attitudinal positions that may explain alternative behavioural responses. This paper uses Q-methodology to identify attitudinal discourses relating to BMP uptake. The approach combines the strengths of qualitative and quantitative research in order to explore subjectivity. The study is conducted with citrus growers in the Ping river basin, where farmers are facing increasing competition from alternative water uses. Four ‘discourses’ or viewpoints are identified, namely conservationist, traditionalist, disinterested and risk-averse. The different attitudes of these four groups are likely to be associated with distinctive behavioural reactions to the adoption of alternative policy instruments for pollution control. These discourses could usefully inform targeted policies for the control of NPS pollution from agriculture.
Deforestation and forest degradation as measures of Popa Mountain Park (Myanmar) effectiveness
Authors: HTUN NAING ZAW , MIZOUE NOBUYA , KAJISA TSUYOSHI , YOSHIDA SHIGEJIRO
Published: February 2010

The effectiveness of protected areas (PAs) has often been measured by comparing deforestation or land cover loss before and after PA establishment or within and outside the PA. Such evaluations ignore forest degradation or the decline in quality of the ecological values of the forest. Landsat image processing and geographical information systems were used to study forest cover changes in and around Popa Mountain Park (central Myanmar). Deforestation inside the Park was lower than outside the Park, but forest degradation, namely the net area that changed from dense forest to open forest, within the Park had grown at rates exceeding those outside the Park. The effectiveness of the PA was overestimated by adopting deforestation as the only indicator of conservation effectiveness. Forest degradation studies can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of PAs.
Multivalued action languages with constraints in CLP(FD)
Authors: DOVIER AGOSTINO , FORMISANO ANDREA , PONTELLI ENRICO
Published: February 2010

Action description languages, such asand ℬ (Gelfond and Lifschitz,Electronic Transactions on Artificial Intelligence, 1998, vol. 2, pp. 193—210), are expressive instruments introduced for formalizing planning domains and planning problem instances. The paper starts by proposing a methodology to encode an action language (with conditional effects and static causal laws), a slight variation of ℬ, usingConstraint Logic Programming over Finite Domains. The approach is then generalized to raise the use of constraints to the level of the action language itself. A prototype implementation has been developed, and the preliminary results are presented and discussed.
Structural results for free Araki–Woods factors and their continuous cores
Authors: Houdayer Cyril
Published: February 2010

We show that for any type III1free Araki–Woods factor$\mathcal{M}$=(HR, Ut)″ associated with an orthogonal representation(Ut)ofRon a separable real Hilbert spaceHR, the continuous coreM=$\mathcal{M}$⋊σRis a semisolid II∞factor, i.e. for any non-zero finite projectionq∈M, the II1factorqM qis semisolid. If the representation(Ut)is moreover assumed to be mixing, then we prove that the coreMis solid. As an application, we construct an example of a non-amenable solid II1factorNwith full fundamental group, i.e.$\mathcal{F}$(N) =R*+, which is not isomorphic to any interpolated free group factorL(Ft), for 1 <t≤ = +∞.
The special case of complicated grief in women at high risk for breast cancer
Authors: Wellisch David K. , Cohen Marie M.
Published: February 2010

Objective:

Exploration of complicated grief focusing on the relationship of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complicated grief in a population of women at high risk for developing breast cancer. Special reference is made to women who have experienced a material death.

Method:

We reflected on the clinical attributes of the Revlon UCLA High Risk Clinic population in terms of their own perceived risk of developing breast cancer. For part of our population, their perceived risk was coupled with their reactions to the loss of their mothers to breast cancer. We compared and contrasted this pattern of reactions to those described by Licihtenthal et al. (2004) in their developmental review of complicated grief as a distinct disorder.

Results:

We concluded that our population of women differed from Lichtenthal et al.'s (2004) model for complicated grief. Lichtenthal's group postulated that the key element of complicated grief involves the protracted nature of separation anxiety and distress and excludes PTSD. In our populations, the daughter with complicated grief experiences a combination of separation anxiety and a type of PTSD involving anxiety over the perceived certainty of her own future diagnosis of breast cancer. It was noteworthy that Lichtenthal's model population was composed of individuals caring for terminally ill spouses. Significantly, the spousal caretakers did not have an ongoing genetic link to their partners whereas our population is genetically linked. We postulate that this accounts for the unique presentation of complicated grief and PTSD in our population.

Significance of results:

We submit that this combination of complicated grief and PTSD requires a cognitive reframing of thier perceived inevitability of developing breast cancer and desensitization techniques to help high risk women pursue preventative health care rather than avoiding it.
Beyond communication: The development of a training program for hospital and hospice staff in the detection and management of psychological distress—Preliminary results
Authors: Jenkins Kate , Alberry Beccy , Daniel Jane , Dixie Laura , North Vivien , Patterson Lawrence , Pestell Sarah , North Nigel
Published: February 2010

Objective:

In the United Kingdom, a Four-Tier Model of Psychological Support has been recommended for all patients with cancer and their families. This model suggests that staff at Tier 2, such as nurses, doctors, and allied health professionals, should be proficient in screening for psychological distress and intervening with techniques such as psycho-education and problem solving. Research has suggested that although communication skills training is essential for staff working in cancer services, it does not necessarily improve the detection of specific psychological disorder or staff confidence in intervening with highly distressed patients. The objective was therefore to design a training program that addressed this deficit and was easily accessible to hospital staff.

Method:. A training package was developed to train staff in the recommended skills. A literature review of teaching modalities and the effectiveness of different formats was conducted. A four-session program was developed, to be administered by staff at Tiers 3 and 4 of the model, such as clinical psychologists and counsellors.

Results:

Over 3 years, 255 sets of data were collected from staff who attended the course. Precourse, postcourse, and 6-month follow-up data were collected through the use of confidence questionnaires, developed from the literature. The data show a significant improvement in staff confidence across all domains measured, including confidence in the detection and management of psychological distress (p =.0001).

Significance of results:

Although the results have limitations and the data are subjective, we can conclude that this course significantly improves staff confidence in dealing with psychological distress and that this increased confidence is maintained over a 6-month follow-up period.
Multiple evaluation of a hospital-based palliative care consultation team in a university hospital: Activities, patient outcome, and referring staff's view
Authors: Sasahara Tomoyo , Miyashita Mitsunori , Umeda Megumi , Higuchi Hitomi , Shinoda Junko , Kawa Masako , Kazuma Keiko
Published: February 2010

Objective:

Although the number of hospital-based palliative care consultation teams (PCCTs) is rapidly increasing in Japan, there is limited information available concerning the activities and usefulness of PCCT in the country. The aim of this study is to clarify the activities, patient outcome, and referring staff's view of an established PCCT in Japan.

Method:

This was a prospective study to follow patients referred to a PCCT for 28 days over a 1-year period. Patients were assessed by the Support Team Assessment Schedule–Japanese version (STAS-J) and EORTC QLQ C-30 at the time of referral and on days 7, 14, and 28. A staff survey was implemented using a questionnaire after each observation period.

Results:

Of 180 patients referred, 53 patients were eligible for the study. Although the median of the number of the reasons for referral was 1, the PCCT provided several kinds of support: pain management, 94%; emotional support for the patient, 49%; and emotional support for the family, 36%. On day 7 after referral, of the items of STAS-J and the EORTC QLQ C-30 subscales, only insomnia improved significant whereas “other physical symptoms” and constipation were significantly exacerbated. In the staff survey, of the 98 respondents, more than 90% considered the effect of the PCCT as “excellent” or “good” and were satisfied with the support provided.

Significance of results:

This study showed that the PCCT performed comprehensive assessments on referred patients and provided extra support. No patient's QOL 1 week after referral was improved with the exception of insomnia. Referring staff highly evaluated the activities of the PCCT. In the evaluation of PCCTs, further research about the variation of clinical activities of PCCTs, their applicability, and benefit is needed.
Do palliative patients and carers agree about patients' psychological functioning?
Authors: Robinson Julie Ann , Crawford Gregory Brian
Published: February 2010

Objective:

Palliative care clinicians and researchers often seek information about patients from informants. This research examines the extent of agreement between information from patients and family caregivers who were asked to serve as collateral sources of information about the patient.

Method:

Sixty-six patients with advanced cancer and their family caregivers participated in the study. Two measurement contexts were examined: Direct observation of patients' cognitive performance (Mini-Mental State Examination) was compared with carers' subjective reports about patients' everyday cognition (Cognitive Decline subscale of the Psychogeriatric Assessment Scale), and subjective reports about patient depression were compared between patients and carers who completed parallel forms of the same scale (Geriatric Depression Scale and Geriatric Depression Scale–Collateral Source, respectively). The relationship between patient-completed and carer-completed measures was examined in four ways: the correlation between total scores in the sample, agreement about the prevalence of impaired functioning and of specific symptoms in the sample, agreement concerning whether particular patients showed impaired functioning, and agreement about the presence or absence of a specific symptom for a particular patient.

Results:

Although most measures of agreement showed that information provided by patients and carers was related, the magnitude of discrepancies was substantial.

Significance of results:

There was no empirical justification for substituting information from a collateral source for information provided by the patient for any of the measures of agreement for either cognition or depression. The use of information from collateral sources is most appropriate when information from the patient is likely to be incomplete or inaccurate, when insight into caregivers' needs or understanding is sought, and when using a multi-informant approach to assessment.
Metabole Chirurgie: Kann der Diabetes mellitus Typ 2 chirurgisch behandelt werden?
Authors: Müller  , Nocito  , Schiesser
Published: February 2010

Der Diabetes mellitus Typ 2 stellt ein schwerwiegendes gesundheitsökonomisches Problem in der westlichen Welt dar. Übergewicht ist ein entscheidender Risikofaktor für das Auftreten eines Diabetes mellitus Typ 2. Nach bariatrischer Chirurgie (BMI >35 kg/m2) wurde bei einem Grossteil der Patienten bereits kurz postoperativ ein Verschwinden des Diabetes mellitus Typ 2 beobachtet. Zudem konnte gezeigt werden, dass die Magenbypassoperation die diabetesspezifische Letalität günstig beeinflusst. Diese Erkenntnisse eröffneten das Feld der metabolen Chirurgie. Die Beeinflussung des Glukosemetabolismus und damit des Diabetes mellitus Typ 2 durch operative Verfahren ist bislang erst in Kohorten mit kleinen Fallzahlen (Patienten mit BMI <35 kg/m2) klinisch untersucht worden. Die physiologischen Veränderungen und der Einfluss bariatrischer Operationen auf den Typ-2-Diabetes wurden einerseits in Tiermodellen und andererseits klinisch bei Patienten mit morbider Adipositas nach bariatrischer Chirurgie untersucht. Die Erkenntnisse, welche sowohl aus den tierexperimentellen Studien als auch aus den klinischen Beobachtungen hervorgegangen sind, können in Zukunft zu neuen Denkansätzen und therapeutischen Strategien führen.
Severe Ice Cover on Great Lakes During Winter 2008–2009
Authors: Wang Jia , Bai Xeuzhi , Leshkevich George , Colton Marie , Clites Anne , Lofgren Brent
Published: February 2010

The North American Great Lakes contain about 95% of the fresh surface water supply for the United States and 20% for the world. Nearly one eighth of the population of the United States and one third of the population of Canada live within their drainage basins. Because of this concentration of population, the ice cover that forms on the Great Lakes each winter and its year‐to‐year variability affect the regional economy [Niimi, 1982]. Ice cover also affects the lake's abiotic environment and ecosystems [Vanderploeg et al., 1992] in addition to influencing summer hypoxia, lake effect snow inland, water level variability, and the overall hydrologic cycle of the region [Assel et al., 2004].
Acting Locally, Thinking Globally: One Geology?
Authors: Jackson Ian
Published: February 2010

Geological survey organizations around the world are responsible for geological data for their own countries, but until recently those data had never been made accessible worldwide. This raised the question of whether we really do have a holistic understanding of the geology of our planet—one geology. OneGeology (http://www.onegeology.org) is a global venture created to increase the accessibility of geological map data and make them available on the Web. Geological survey organizations from 113 countries are currently participating in OneGeology, and to date more than 40 of those organizations are serving geological data to a dedicated Web map portal (see Figure 1).

Since its inception in February 2006, OneGeology has been extremely successful. A growing number of geological survey organizations are contributing data and through the project have developed the know‐how to do so; the initiative has raised the profile of and moved forward interoperability in the geosciences; scientists and educators around the world have made innovative use of the newly accessible data; and the initiative has received much positive publicity. The reason for the success of OneGeology since its inception lies in its three unifying goals: (1) to make existing geological map data Web accessible; (2) to transfer know‐how to the developing world; and (3) to accelerate the progress of an emerging geoscience data interchange standard. As a result of the publicity and media profile of the initiative, a fourth goal has been added: to use OneGeology to raise the public profile and understanding of geoscience.
Comment on “Developing and Implementing an Effective Public Outreach Program”
Authors: O'Neill Michael , Dobrowslki James , Gold Arthur , Blewett Thomas , Waskom Reagan
Published: February 2010

We commend and thank J. A. Harrison et al. for the feature article “Developing and implementing an effective public outreach program” (see Eos, 90(38), 333–334, 22 September 2009), which brought attention to a critical component of knowledge development, namely, effective outreach. We strongly support their recommendations. Here we offer additional suggestions and sources of programming resources that may assist young scientists interested in involving stakeholders in research and extension‐outreach programs.

Since 2001 the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), in partnership with land grant universities, has developed and implemented a national network of regionally integrated water quality research and outreach programs through the National Integrated Water Quality Program (NIWQP). Engaging young, research‐oriented faculty into these outreach programs has been a challenge and a priority of NIFA programs. Through its regional network, the NIWQP has developed standing teams of extension‐outreach professionals and researchers who can provide logistical support and leveraging funds for young faculty to identify and connect with stakeholders. Standing teams assist young investigators in planning/assessment methods to ensure that outreach activities address stakeholder needs and progress toward a set of defined outcomes or impacts.
Coastal Altimetry Progresses Toward Applications: Third Coastal Altimetry Workshop, European Space Agency; Frascati, Italy, 17–18 September 2009
Authors: Vignudelli Stefano , Benveniste Jérôme
Published: February 2010

Recognizing that coastal ocean observing systems would benefit from enhanced satellite altimetry, a first coastal altimetry workshop, held in Silver Spring, Md., in February 2008, charted the course to promote its use in the coastal zone (see W. H. Smith et al., Eos, 89(40), 380, 2008). A second workshop, hosted in Pisa, Italy, in November 2008, confirmed the rapid progress made in the field (see J. Benveniste and S. Vignudelli, Eos, 90(26), 225, 2009), especially by projects such as COASTALT (Development of Radar Altimetry Data Processing in the Coastal Zone), funded by the European Space Agency (ESA), and PISTACH (Prototype Innovant de Système de Traitement Pour les Applications Côtières et l'Hydrologie), funded by Centre National d'Études Spatiales (CNES), France.
Working Toward a Common Strategy for U.K. Sediment Transport Research: U.K. Sediment Initiative 2009: Developing Multidisciplinary Sediment Dynamics Research in a Strategic Context; Liverpool, United Kingdom, 27–29 April 2009
Authors: Souza Alejandro J. , Bell Paul S. , Amoudry Laurent
Published: February 2010

A workshop funded by the U.K. Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) brought together U.K.‐ based researchers, stakeholders, and policy makers with an interest in sediment processes to foster collaborative links and to help NERC theme leaders develop future Theme Action Plans (TAPs). This could be achieved only by identifying gaps in knowledge and prioritizing research needs toward formulating a U.K. sediment transport research strategy. More than 50 participants from NERC research and collaborative centers, U.K. higher education institution researchers, industry consultants, and government departments and agencies attended the workshop.

The workshop was divided into three parts. First, in an introduction, guest speakers discussed the importance of sediment transport from different perspectives. The speakers included Darius Campbell (U.K. Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs) on policy drivers, Richard Whitehouse (HR Wallingford, Ltd.) and David Lambkin (ABPMer, Ltd.) on industry needs, John Rees (NERC theme leader) on the NERC TAPs and possible funding opportunities, Alan Davies (University of Bangor) on the academic research perspective, and Chris Sherwood (U.S. Geological Survey) on international insight on large sediment transport projects and on developments of the U.S. National Community Sediment Transport Model project. Second, in a series of breakout sessions, participants considered the stakeholders' needs, the different dynamic areas of the coastal ocean, and the process time scales. Third, the workshop group discussed possible funding streams and ways to better formulate a concerted research plan for presentation to funding bodies.
Effects of Lightning in the Upper Atmosphere: AGU Chapman Conference on Effects of Thunderstorms and Lightning in the Upper Atmosphere; University Park, Pennsylvania, 10–14 May 2009
Authors: Sentman Davis D. , Pasko Victor P. , Morrill Jeff S.
Published: February 2010

The serendipitous observation in 1989 of electrical discharge in the high atmosphere induced by thundercloud lightning launched a new field of geophysical investigation. From this single unexpected observation sprang a vigorous and fertile new research field that simultaneously encompasses geophysical disciplines that are normally pursued independently, such as meteorology and lightning, plasma and gas discharge physics, atmospheric chemistry, ionospheric physics, and energetic particle physics.

Transient electrical discharge in the upper atmosphere spans the full range of altitudes between the tropopause and the ionosphere and takes a variety of forms that carry the whimsical names red sprites, blue jets, gigantic jets, elves (emissions of light and very low frequency perturbations from electromagnetic pulse sources), and sprite halos, collectively known as transient luminous events (TLEs). To date, TLEs have been observed from ground and airborne or space borne platforms above thunderstorm systems worldwide, and radio observations made concomitantly with optical observations have shown that they are produced by the transient far fields of thundercloud lightning. TLEs appear to be large‐scale (tens of kilometers in dimension), upper atmospheric versions of conventional gas discharge akin to weakly ionized, collision‐dominated systems found in laboratory discharge devices (millimeter‐centimeter dimensions), with characteristic energies of a few electron volts. The dominant physical processes have been identified as described by the familiar kinetic theory of the photochemistry of the upper atmosphere, but with electric field—driven electron impact ionization playing the role of photolysis or energetic precipitating particle—induced ionization.
AMD biofilms: using model communities to study microbial evolution and ecological complexity in nature
Authors: Denef Vincent J , Mueller Ryan S , Banfield Jillian F
Published: February 2010

Similar to virtually all components of natural environments, microbial systems are inherently complex and dynamic. Advances in cultivation-independent molecular methods have provided a route to study microbial consortia in their natural surroundings and to begin resolving the community structure, dominant metabolic processes and inter-organism interactions. However, the utility of these methods generally scales inversely with community complexity. By applying genomics-enabled methods to the study of natural microbial communities with reduced levels of species richness, a relatively comprehensive understanding of the metabolic networks and evolutionary processes within these communities can be attained. In such well-defined model systems, it is also possible to link emergent ecological patterns to their molecular and evolutionary underpinnings, facilitating construction of predictive ecosystem models. In this study, we review over a decade of research on one such system—acid mine drainage biofilm communities. We discuss the value and limitations of tractable model microbial communities in developing molecular methods for microbial ecology and in uncovering principles that may explain behavior in more complex systems.
Fine-scale evolution: genomic, phenotypic and ecological differentiation in two coexisting Salinibacter ruber strains
Authors: Peña Arantxa , Teeling Hanno , Huerta-Cepas Jaime , Santos Fernando , Yarza Pablo , Brito-Echeverría Jocelyn , Lucio Marianna , Schmitt-Kopplin Philippe , Meseguer Inmaculada , Schenowitz Chantal , Dossat Carole , Barbe Valerie , Dopazo Joaquín , Rosselló-Mora Ramon , Schüler Margarete , Glöckner Frank Oliver , Amann Rudolf , Gabaldón Toni , Antón Josefa
Published: February 2010

Genomic and metagenomic data indicate a high degree of genomic variation within microbial populations, although the ecological and evolutive meaning of this microdiversity remains unknown. Microevolution analyses, including genomic and experimental approaches, are so far very scarce for non-pathogenic bacteria. In this study, we compare the genomes, metabolomes and selected ecological traits of the strains M8 and M31 of the hyperhalophilic bacterium Salinibacter ruber that contain ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene and intergenic regions that are identical in sequence and were simultaneously isolated from a Mediterranean solar saltern. Comparative analyses indicate that S. ruber genomes present a mosaic structure with conserved and hypervariable regions (HVRs). The HVRs or genomic islands, are enriched in transposases, genes related to surface properties, strain-specific genes and highly divergent orthologous. However, the many indels outside the HVRs indicate that genome plasticity extends beyond them. Overall, 10% of the genes encoded in the M8 genome are absent from M31 and could stem from recent acquisitions. S. ruber genomes also harbor 34 genes located outside HVRs that are transcribed during standard growth and probably derive from lateral gene transfers with Archaea preceding the M8/M31 divergence. Metabolomic analyses, phage susceptibility and competition experiments indicate that these genomic differences cannot be considered neutral from an ecological perspective. The results point to the avoidance of competition by micro-niche adaptation and response to viral predation as putative major forces that drive microevolution within these Salinibacter strains. In addition, this work highlights the extent of bacterial functional diversity and environmental adaptation, beyond the resolution of the 16S rRNA and internal transcribed spacers regions.
Site and plant species are important determinants of the Methylobacterium community composition in the plant phyllosphere
Authors: Knief Claudia , Ramette Alban , Frances Lisa , Alonso-Blanco Carlos , Vorholt Julia A
Published: February 2010

The plant phyllosphere constitutes a habitat for numerous microorganisms; among them are members of the genus Methylobacterium. Owing to the ubiquitous occurrence of methylobacteria on plant leaves, they represent a suitable target for studying plant colonization patterns. The influence of the factor site, host plant species, time and the presence of other phyllosphere bacteria on Methylobacterium community composition and population size were evaluated in this study. Leaf samples were collected from Arabidopsis thaliana or Medicago truncatula plants and from the surrounding plant species at several sites. The abundance of cultivable Methylobacterium clearly correlated with the abundance of other phyllosphere bacteria, suggesting that methylobacteria constitute a considerable and rather stable fraction of the phyllosphere microbiota under varying environmental conditions. Automated ribosomal intergenic spacer analysis (ARISA) was applied to characterize the Methylobacterium community composition and showed the presence of similar communities on A. thaliana plants at most sites in 2 consecutive years of sampling. A substantial part of the observed variation in the community composition was explained by site and plant species, especially in the case of the plants collected at the Arabidopsis sites (50%). The dominating ARISA peaks that were detected on A. thaliana plants were found on other plant species grown at the same site, whereas some different peaks were detected on A. thaliana plants from other sites. This indicates that site-specific factors had a stronger impact on the Methylobacterium community composition than did plant-specific factors and that the Methylobacterium–plant association is not highly host plant species specific.
A Bacterial Enzyme Catalyzing Double Reduction of a β,δ-Diketo Ester with Unprecedented Stereoselectivity
Authors: Wu Xuri , Liu Nan , He Yunmian , Chen Yijun
Published: February 2010

Various ketoreductases exclusively participate in all common biological events, and they are a class of important biocatalysts for the production of chiral alcohols. While many types of ketoreductase have been extensively studied and their functions, properties and utilities have been well known, the capability of stereoselectively reducing two carbonyl groups in the same diketohexanoate ester molecule to form a dihydroxy product by a single ketoreductase has not been evidently characterized. Here we show that a unique and novel enzyme, diketoreductase, was cloned from Acinetobacter baylyi, heterogeneously expressed in Escherichia coli and purified to homogeneity. The diketoreductase is up to 78% homologous to bacterial 3-hydroxyacyl coenzyme-A reductases. However, recombinant diketoreductase does not reduce HMG-CoA, showing that the inference of function of enzymes like the diketoreductase based on sequence homology may be in error. The enzyme directly converts a β,δ-diketo ester to the corresponding dihydroxy ester. More remarkably, our results demonstrate that the recombinant enzyme possesses unprecedented stereoselectivity with both diastereomeric and enantiomeric excesses of greater than 99%. This new enzyme is of immediate value in developing a practical biocatalytic route to the side chains of statin drugs, such as Lipitor®.
Glucagon Treatment for Post‐Gastric Bypass Hypoglycemia
Authors: Halperin Florencia , Patti Mary E. , Goldfine Allison B.
Published: February 2010

Hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia is a recently described complication of Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (RYGB). We hypothesized that glucagon administration would help maintain normal postprandial plasma glucose concentrations by stimulating hepatic glucose output, and if so, represent a new therapeutic option for postbypass hypoglycemia. In this study, we compared the insulin and glycemic response to a mixed meal with and without concomitant glucagon infusion in a patient with severe recurrent hypoglycemia after RYGB. Although effective in transiently raising postprandial plasma glucose values, glucagon infusion was also associated with higher insulin concentrations, and failed to prevent symptomatic hypoglycemia. This case demonstrates that glucagon may have limited clinical utility in the treatment of post‐RYGB hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia.
Insulin and Hippocampus Activation in Response to Images of High‐Calorie Food in Normal Weight and Obese Adolescents
Authors: Wallner‐Liebmann Sandra , Koschutnig Karl , Reishofer Gernot , Sorantin Erich , Blaschitz Barbara , Kruschitz Renate , Unterrainer Human F. , Gasser Robert , Freytag Florian , Bauer‐Denk Carmen , Mangge Harald
Published: February 2010

Responsiveness to food cues, especially those associated with high‐calorie nutrients may be a factor underlying obesity. An increased motivational potency of foods appears to be mediated in part by the hippocampus. To clarify this, we investigated by means of 3‐T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) the activation of the hippocampus and associated brain structures in response to pictures of high‐calorie and low‐calorie foods in 12 obese and 12 normal‐weight adolescents. To investigate the relationship between neuronal activation patterns (e.g., hippocampus) to the caloric content of food images and plasma insulin levels, we performed a multiple regression analysis. Interestingly, a significant positive correlation between fasting plasma levels of insulin, waist circumference, and right hippocampal activation was seen after stimulation with high‐caloric food images. BMI values did not correlate significantly with the hippocampal activation. On the other hand, we found a significant negative correlation in response to high‐caloric food images and the plasma levels of insulin in the medial right gyrus frontalis superior and in the left thalamus. In summary, our data show that insulin is importantly involved in the central regulation of food intake. The significant positive relationship between hippocampal activation after stimulation with high‐caloric food images, plasma insulin levels, and waist circumference suggests a permissive role of insulin signaling pathways in the hippocampal control of eating behavior. Interestingly, only the waist circumference, as a main indicator of abdominal obesity, correlated significantly with the hippocampal activation patterns, and not the BMI.
Filamin associates with stress signalling kinases MKK7 and MKK4 and regulates JNK activation
Authors: Nakagawa Kentaro , Sugahara Misato , Yamasaki Tokiwa , Kajiho Hiroaki , Takahashi Shinya , Hirayama Jun , Minami Yasuhiro , Ohta Yasutaka , Watanabe Toshio , Hata Yutaka , Katada Toshiaki , Nishina Hiroshi
Published: February 2010

SAPK/JNK (stress-activated protein kinase/c-Jun N-terminal kinase) belongs to the MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) family and is important in many biological contexts. JNK activation is regulated by phosphorylation of specific tyrosine and threonine residues sequentially catalysed by MKK4 and MKK7, which are both dual-specificity MAPKKs (MAPK kinases). Previously, we reported that tyrosine-phosphorylation of JNK by MKK4 precedes threonine-phosphorylation by MKK7, and that both are required for synergistic JNK activation. In the present study, we identify the actin-binding protein-280 (Filamin A) as a presumed ‘binder’ protein that can bind to MKK7, as well as to MKK4, connecting them in close proximity. We show that Filamin family members A, B and C interact with MKK4 and MKK7, but not with JNK. Filamin A binds to an N-terminal region (residues 31–60) present in the MKK7γ and MKK7β splice isoforms, but cannot bind to MKK7α which lacks these amino acids. This same N-terminal region is crucial for the intracellular co-localization of MKK7γ with actin stress fibres and Filamin A. Experiments using Filamin-A-deletion mutants revealed that the MKK7-binding region of Filamin A differs from its MKK4-binding region, and that MKK7γ (but not MKK7α) can form a complex with Filamin A and MKK4. Finally, we used Filamin-A-deficient cells to show that Filamin A enhances MKK7 activation and is important for synergistic stress-induced JNK activation in vivo. Thus Filamin A is a novel member of the group of scaffold proteins whose function is to link two MAPKKs together and promote JNK activation.
Induced, selective proteolysis of MLK3 negatively regulates MLK3/JNK signalling
Authors: Liou Geou-Yarh , Zhang Hua , Miller Eva M. , Seibold Steve A. , Chen Weiqin , Gallo Kathleen A.
Published: February 2010

MLK3 (mixed lineage kinase 3) is a MAP3K [MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) kinase kinase] that activates multiple MAPK pathways, including the JNK (c-Jun N-terminal kinase) pathway. Immunoblotting of lysates from cells ectopically expressing active MLK3 revealed an additional immunoreactive band corresponding to a CTF (C-terminal fragment) of MLK3. In the present paper we provide evidence that MLK3 undergoes proteolysis to generate a stable CTF in response to different stimuli, including PMA and TNFα (tumour necrosis factor α). The cleavage site was deduced by Edman sequencing as between Gln251 and Pro252, which is within the kinase domain of MLK3. Based on our homology model of the kinase domain of MLK3, the region containing the cleavage site is predicted to reside on a flexible solvent-accessible loop. Site-directed mutagenesis studies revealed that Leu250 and Gln251 are required for recognition by the ‘MLK3 protease’, reminiscent of the substrate specificity of the coronavirus 3C and 3CL proteases. Whereas numerous mammalian protease inhibitors have no effect on MLK3 proteolysis, blockade of the proteasome through epoxomicin or MG132 abolishes PMA-induced production of the CTF of MLK3. This CTF is able to heterodimerize with full-length MLK3, and interact with the active form of the small GTPase Cdc42, resulting in diminished activation loop phosphorylation of MLK3 and reduced signalling to JNK. Thus this novel proteolytic processing of MLK3 may negatively control MLK3 signalling to JNK.
Transglutaminase-2: a new endostatin partner in the extracellular matrix of endothelial cells
Authors: Faye Clément , Inforzato Antonio , Bignon Marine , Hartmann Daniel J. , Muller Laurent , Ballut Lionel , Olsen Bjorn R. , Day Anthony J. , Ricard-Blum Sylvie
Published: February 2010

Endostatin, a C-terminal fragment of collagen XVIII, binds to TG-2 (transglutaminase-2) in a cation-dependent manner. Recombinant human endostatin binds to TG-2 with an affinity in the nanomolar range (Kd=6.8 nM). Enzymatic assays indicated that, in contrast with other extracellular matrix proteins, endostatin is not a glutaminyl substrate of TG-2 and is not cross-linked to itself by the enzyme. Two arginine residues of endostatin, Arg27 and Arg139, are crucial for its binding to TG-2. They are also involved in the binding to heparin [Sasaki, Larsson, Kreuger, Salmivirta, Claesson-Welsh, Lindahl, Hohenester and Timpl (1999) EMBO J. 18, 6240–6248], and to α5β1 and αvβ3 integrins [Faye, Moreau, Chautard, Jetne, Fukai, Ruggiero, Humphries, Olsen and Ricard-Blum (2009) J. Biol. Chem. 284, 22029–22040], suggesting that endostatin is not able to interact simultaneously with TG-2 and heparan sulfate, or with TG-2 and integrins. Inhibition experiments support the hypothesis that the GTP-binding site of TG-2 is a potential binding site for endostatin. Endostatin and TG-2 are co-localized in the extracellular matrix secreted by endothelial cells under hypoxia, which stimulates angiogenesis. This interaction, occurring in a cellular context, might participate in the concerted regulation of angiogenesis and tumorigenesis by the two proteins.
Structural and functional analysis of amino-terminal enhancer of split in androgen-receptor-driven transcription
Authors: Zhang Yiming , Gao Shen , Wang Zhengxin
Published: February 2010

We previously demonstrated that the Groucho protein AES (amino-terminal enhancer of split) functions as a co-repressor of the AR (androgen receptor). It physically interacts with the N-terminal domain of AR and inhibits AR-driven transcription, but the molecular mechanism of its action remained unclear. In the present paper we report that the AES protein contains one inhibitory domain, and one positive and one negative regulatory domain. The negative regulatory domain inhibits AES dimerization and AES-mediated inhibition of AR-driven transcription through an interaction with the inhibitory domain. The positive regulatory domain blocked this interaction and relieved the inhibitory effect. In addition, we discovered mechanisms by which AES regulates AR transcriptional activity, which included disruption of the interaction between the AR N-terminal and C-terminal domains, and inhibition of AR–DNA interaction. Although AES broadly inhibited the activity of androgen-dependent luciferase reporters in a transient transfection assay, it selectively regulated the expression of endogenous androgen-dependent genes in prostate cancer cells.
Proteolytic processing of anArabidopsismembrane-bound NAC transcription factor is triggered by cold-induced changes in membrane fluidity
Authors: Seo Pil Joon , Kim Mi Jung , Song Jin-Su , Kim Youn-Sung , Kim Hie-Joon , Park Chung-Mo
Published: February 2010

Changes in membrane fluidity are the earliest cellular events that occur in plant cells upon exposure to cold. This subsequently triggers physiological processes, such as calcium influx and reorganization of actin cytoskeletons, and induces expression of cold-responsive genes. The plasma-membrane-anchored NAC (NAM/ATAF/CUC) transcription factor NTL6 is of particular interest. Cold triggers proteolytic activation of the dormant NTL6 protein, which in turn elicits pathogen-resistance responses by inducing a small group of cold-inducible PR (pathogenesis-related) genes in Arabidopsis. In the present study, we show that proteolytic processing of NTL6 is regulated by cold-induced remodelling of membrane fluidity. NTL6 processing was stimulated rapidly by cold. The protein stability of NTL6 was also enhanced by cold. The effects of cold on NTL6 processing and protein stability were significantly reduced in cold-acclimatized plants, supporting the regulation of NTL6 processing by membrane fluidity. Consistent with this, although NTL6 processing was stimulated by pharmacological agents that reduce membrane fluidity and thus mimic cold, it was inhibited when plants were treated with a 18:3 unsaturated fatty acid, linolenic acid. In addition, the pattern of NTL6 processing was changed in Arabidopsis mutants with altered membrane lipid compositions. Assays employing chemicals that inhibit activities of the proteasome and proteases showed that NTL6 processing occurs via the regulated intramembrane proteolysis mechanism. Interestingly, a metalloprotease inhibitor blocked the NTL6 processing. These observations indicate that a metalloprotease activity is responsible for NTL6 processing in response to cold-induced changes in membrane fluidity.
Isolation and characterization of selective and potent human Fab inhibitors directed to the active-site region of the two-component NS2B–NS3 proteinase of West Nile virus
Authors: Shiryaev Sergey A. , Radichev Ilian A. , Ratnikov Boris I. , Aleshin Alexander E. , Gawlik Katarzyna , Stec Boguslaw , Frisch Christian , Knappik Achim , Strongin Alex Y.
Published: February 2010

There is a need to develop inhibitors of mosquito-borne flaviviruses, including WNV (West Nile virus). In the present paper, we describe a novel and efficient recombinant-antibody technology that led us to the isolation of inhibitory high-affinity human antibodies to the active-site region of a viral proteinase. As a proof-of-principal, we have successfully used this technology and the synthetic naive human combinatorial antibody library HuCAL GOLD® to isolate selective and potent function-blocking active-site-targeting antibodies to the two-component WNV NS (non-structural protein) 2B–NS3 serine proteinase, the only proteinase encoded by the flaviviral genome. First, we used the wild-type enzyme in antibody screens. Next, the positive antibody clones were counter-screened using an NS2B–NS3 mutant with a single mutation of the catalytically essential active-site histidine residue. The specificity of the antibodies to the active site was confirmed by substrate-cleavage reactions and also by using proteinase mutants with additional single amino-acid substitutions in the active-site region. The selected WNV antibodies did not recognize the structurally similar viral proteinases from Dengue virus type 2 and hepatitis C virus, and human serine proteinases. Because of their high selectivity and affinity, the identified human antibodies are attractive reagents for both further mutagenesis and structure-based optimization and, in addition, for studies of NS2B–NS3 activity. Conceptually, it is likely that the generic technology reported in the present paper will be useful for the generation of active-site-specific antibody probes for multiple enzymes.
Protein translocation through the Sec61/SecY channel
Authors: Cheng Zhiliang
Published: February 2010

Special codes are embedded in the primary sequence of newly synthesized proteins to determine their final destination. Protein translocation across biological membranes requires co-operation between the targeting and translocation machineries. A conserved membrane channel, the Sec61/SecY complex, mediates protein translocation across or integration into the endoplasmic reticulum membrane in eukaryotes and the plasma membrane in prokaryotes. A combination of recent biochemical and structural data provides novel insights into the mechanism of how the channel allows polypeptide movement into the exoplasmic space and the lipid bilayer.