bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Successful Retention Program for Suspended Students
Authors: Dill Anna L. , Gilbert Jerome A. , Hill Jennifer P. , Minchew Sue S. , Sempier Tracie A.
Published: October 2010

Traditionally at Mississippi State University (MSU), students who are placed on academic suspension are required to stay out of school one regular semester. As an alternative, the university designed a program for early readmission for suspended students who agree to follow the requirements outlined in the Learning Skills Support Program (LSSP). This program requires students to enroll in a specified learning skills course, to meet frequently with the program coordinator and their advisor, and to maintain a 2.0 GPA for the semester of participation. The purpose of the study was to determine the success of the LSSP participants in completing the LSSP requirements and to compare the retention of the LSSP participants with the nonparticipant suspended students. The LSSP has successfully enhanced the academic performance of its participants and aided in the retention of at-risk students. Since its inception, 75% of the LSSP students have successfully completed the program, maintaining a minimum 2.0 GPA. In addition, 65% of the LSSP participants returned to school the semester following participation compared to 22% of the nonparticipant suspended students.
Associations among Peer Relationships, Academic Achievement, and Persistence in College
Authors: Goguen Lisa M. Swenson , Hiester Marnie A. , Nordstrom Alicia H.
Published: October 2010

Developmental theory describes the central importance of peer relationships in the lives of young adults (e.g., Erikson, 1963). In this study we tested the importance of peer relationships to academic outcomes. First-year undergraduates completed a self-report survey to indicate the number and closeness of their friendships. We compared these variables to academic outcomes, including grade point averages (GPA) and persistence throughout the first college year. Having trust in, sharing common interests with, and the extent of conflict with a new college friend was associated with GPA and persistence to the second college year. Results are discussed in the context of assisting students in the transition into college.
Influence of the secondary electron emission on the characteristics of radio frequency plasmas
Authors: Bojarov Aleksandar , Radmilovic-Radjenovic Marija , Savic Marija
Published: October 2010

In this paper the influence of secondary emission on the characteristics of
RF plasmas has been studied. An asymmetrical dual-frequency capacitively
coupled plasma reactor has been modeled with one dimensional PIC/MCC
(Particle in Cell with Implemented Monte Carlo Collisions) code. The main
feature of the modeling code represents the realistic model of the
ion-induced secondary electron emission. Secondary emission of electrons is
one of the important processes that effects the characteristics of rf
plasmas. For modeling the secondary yield per ion, we have used equations
proposed by Phelps and Petrovic (Plasma Sources Sci. Technol. 8 (1999)
R21-R44) for differently treated metal surfaces. In the model, the energy
dependence of the yields per ion for differently treated metal surfaces has
been implemented. Results are compared for yields for the so called ?dirty?
and ?clean? surfaces, and the spatial profiles of charged particles and ion
energy distributions were observed. The simulation results indicate that the
plasma characteristics are greatly affected by the ion-induced secondary
emission, changing the overall parameters of dual-frequency capacitively
coupled plasma reactors especially in applications as etching devices.
Conclusion is that an exact model of the secondary electron emission should
be included, as to ensure better agreement between simulation and experiment.
Disruption of Hepatocyte Growth Factor/c-Met Signaling Enhances Pancreatic β-Cell Death and Accelerates the Onset of Diabetes
Authors: Mellado-Gil Jose , Rosa Taylor C. , Demirci Cem , Gonzalez-Pertusa Jose A. , Velazquez-Garcia Silvia , Ernst Sara , Valle Shelley , Vasavada Rupangi C. , Stewart Andrew F. , Alonso Laura C. , Garcia-Ocaña Adolfo
Published: October 2010

OBJECTIVE

To determine the role of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/c-Met on β-cell survival in diabetogenic conditions in vivo and in response to cytokines in vitro.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We generated pancreas-specific c-Met-null (PancMet KO) mice and characterized their response to diabetes induced by multiple low-dose streptozotocin (MLDS) administration. We also analyzed the effect of HGF/c-Met signaling in vitro on cytokine-induced β-cell death in mouse and human islets, specifically examining the role of nuclear factor (NF)-κB.

RESULTS

Islets exposed in vitro to cytokines or from MLDS-treated mice displayed significantly increased HGF and c-Met levels, suggesting a potential role for HGF/c-Met in β-cell survival against diabetogenic agents. Adult PancMet KO mice displayed normal glucose and β-cell homeostasis, indicating that pancreatic c-Met loss is not detrimental for β-cell growth and function under basal conditions. However, PancMet KO mice were more susceptible to MLDS-induced diabetes. They displayed higher blood glucose levels, marked hypoinsulinemia, and reduced β-cell mass compared with wild-type littermates. PancMet KO mice showed enhanced intraislet infiltration, islet nitric oxide (NO) and chemokine production, and β-cell apoptosis. c-Met-null β-cells were more sensitive to cytokine-induced cell death in vitro, an effect mediated by NF-κB activation and NO production. Conversely, HGF treatment decreased p65/NF-κB activation and fully protected mouse and, more important, human β-cells against cytokines.

CONCLUSIONS

These results show that HGF/c-Met is critical for β-cell survival by attenuating NF-κB signaling and suggest that activation of the HGF/c-Met signaling pathway represents a novel strategy for enhancing β-cell protection.
β-Cell Dysfunctional ERAD/Ubiquitin/Proteasome System in Type 2 Diabetes Mediated by Islet Amyloid Polypeptide–Induced UCH-L1 Deficiency
Authors: Costes Safia , Huang Chang-jiang , Gurlo Tatyana , Daval Marie , Matveyenko Aleksey V. , Rizza Robert A. , Butler Alexandra E. , Butler Peter C.
Published: October 2010

OBJECTIVE

The islet in type 2 diabetes is characterized by β-cell apoptosis, β-cell endoplasmic reticulum stress, and islet amyloid deposits derived from islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP). Toxic oligomers of IAPP form intracellularly in β-cells in humans with type 2 diabetes, suggesting impaired clearance of misfolded proteins. In this study, we investigated whether human-IAPP (h-IAPP) disrupts the endoplasmic reticulum–associated degradation/ubiquitin/proteasome system.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We used pancreatic tissue from humans with and without type 2 diabetes, isolated islets from h-IAPP transgenic rats, isolated human islets, and INS 832/13 cells transduced with adenoviruses expressing either h-IAPP or a comparable expression of rodent-IAPP. Immunofluorescence and Western blotting were used to detect polyubiquitinated proteins and ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCH-L1) protein levels. Proteasome activity was measured in isolated rat and human islets. UCH-L1 was knocked down by small-interfering RNA in INS 832/13 cells and apoptosis was evaluated.

RESULTS

We report accumulation of polyubiquinated proteins and UCH-L1 deficiency in β-cells of humans with type 2 diabetes. These findings were reproduced by expression of oligomeric h-IAPP but not soluble rat-IAPP. Downregulation of UCH-L1 expression and activity to reproduce that caused by h-IAPP in β-cells induced endoplasmic reticulum stress leading to apoptosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that defective protein degradation in β-cells in type 2 diabetes can, at least in part, be attributed to misfolded h-IAPP leading to UCH-L1 deficiency, which in turn further compromises β-cell viability.
Congenital Hyperinsulinism and Glucose Hypersensitivity in Homozygous and Heterozygous Carriers of Kir6.2 (KCNJ11) Mutation V290M Mutation
Authors: Loechner Karen J. , Akrouh Alejandro , Kurata Harley T. , Dionisi-Vici Carlo , Maiorana Arianna , Pizzoferro Milena , Rufini Vittoria , de Ville de Goyet Jean , Colombo Carlo , Barbetti Fabrizio , Koster Joseph C. , Nichols Colin G.
Published: October 2010

OBJECTIVE

The ATP-sensitive K+ channel (KATP) controls insulin secretion from the islet. Gain- or loss-of-function mutations in channel subunits underlie human neonatal diabetes and congenital hyperinsulinism (HI), respectively. In this study, we sought to identify the mechanistic basis of KATP-induced HI in two probands and to characterize the clinical course.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We analyzed HI in two probands and characterized the course of clinical treatment in each, as well as properties of mutant KATP channels expressed in COSm6 cells using Rb efflux and patch-clamp methods.

RESULTS

We identified mutation V290M in the pore-forming Kir6.2 subunit in each proband. In vitro expression in COSm6 cells supports the mutation resulting in an inactivating phenotype, which leads to significantly reduced activity in intact cells when expressed homomerically, and to a lesser extent when expressed heteromerically with wild-type subunits. In one heterozygous proband, a fluoro-DOPA scan revealed a causal focal lesion, indicating uniparental disomy with loss of heterozygosity. In a second family, the proband, homozygous for the mutation, was diagnosed with severe diazoxide–unresponsive hypersinsulinism at 2 weeks of age. The patient continues to be treated successfully with octreotide and amlodipine. The parents and a male sibling are heterozygous carriers without overt clinical HI. Interestingly, both the mother and the sibling exhibit evidence of abnormally enhanced glucose tolerance.

CONCLUSIONS

V290M results in inactivating KATP channels that underlie HI. Homozygous individuals may be managed medically, without pancreatectomy. Heterozygous carriers also show evidence of enhanced glucose sensitivity, consistent with incomplete loss of KATP channel activity.
mt-Nd2aModifies Resistance Against Autoimmune Type 1 Diabetes in NOD Mice at the Level of the Pancreatic β-Cell
Authors: Chen Jing , Gusdon Aaron M. , Piganelli Jon , Leiter Edward H. , Mathews Clayton E.
Published: October 2010

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the mitochondrial gene for NADH dehydrogenase 2 (mt-Nd2) can modulate susceptibility to type 1 diabetes in NOD mice.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

NOD/ShiLtJ mice conplastic for the alloxan resistant (ALR)/Lt-derived mt-Nd2a allele (NOD.mtALR) were created and compared with standard NOD (carrying the mt-Nd2c allele) for susceptibility to spontaneous autoimmune diabetes, or to diabetes elicited by reciprocal adoptive splenic leukocyte transfers, as well as by adoptive transfer of diabetogenic T-cell clones. β-Cell lines derived from either the NOD (NIT-1) or the NOD.mtALR (NIT-4) were also created to compare their susceptibility to cytolysis by diabetogenic CD8+ T-cells in vitro.

RESULTS

NOD mice differing at this single SNP developed spontaneous or adoptively transferred diabetes at comparable rates and percentages. However, conplastic mice with the mt-Nd2a allele exhibited resistance to transfer of diabetes by the CD4+ T-cell clone BDC 2.5 as well as the CD8+ AI4 T-cell clones from T-cell receptor transgenic animals. NIT-4 cells with mt-Nd2a were also more resistant to AI4-mediated destruction in vitro than NIT-1 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Conplastic introduction into NOD mice of a variant mt-Nd2 allele alone was not sufficient to prevent spontaneous autoimmune diabetes. Subtle nonhematopoietic type 1 diabetes resistance was observed during adoptive transfer experiments with T-cell clones. This study confirms that genetic polymorphisms in mitochondria can modulate β-cell sensitivity to autoimmune T-cell effectors.
Impact of Positive Family History and Genetic Risk Variants on the Incidence of Diabetes
Authors: Uusitupa Matti I. , Stančáková Alena , Peltonen Markku , Eriksson Johan G. , Lindström Jaana , Aunola Sirkka , Ilanne-Parikka Pirjo , Keinänen-Kiukaanniemi Sirkka , Tuomilehto Jaakko , Laakso Markku
Published: October 2010

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate the influence of positive family history (FH+) of diabetes and 19 known genetic risk loci on the effectiveness of lifestyle changes and their predictive value on the incidence of type 2 diabetes in the Finnish Diabetes Prevention Study (DPS).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 522 subjects with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) were randomized into the control (n = 257) and intervention (n = 265) groups. The mean follow-up was 6.2 years (median 7 years), and the lifestyle intervention, aimed at weight reduction, healthy diet, and increased physical activity, lasted for 4 years (range 1–6 years). An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and assessment of basic clinical variables were performed annually.

RESULTS

The effect of intervention on the incidence of diabetes was almost similar in subjects with FH+ compared with subjects with a negative family history (FH−) of diabetes during the entire follow-up. In the Cox model, including FH, genetic risk SNPs, and randomization group, and adjusted for the effects of age, sex, BMI, and study center, only lifestyle intervention had a significant effect (hazard ratio 0.55, 95% CI 0.41–0.75, P < 0.001) on the incidence of diabetes. Further analyses showed that in addition to the baseline glucose and insulin values, 1-year changes in 2-h glucose and 2-h insulin achieved by lifestyle intervention had a significant effect on the incidence of diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

These results emphasize the effectiveness of lifestyle intervention in reducing the risk of diabetes in high-risk individuals independently of genetic or familial risk of type 2 diabetes.
Low HDL Cholesterol, Metformin Use, and Cancer Risk in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Yang Xilin , So Wing Yee , Ma Ronald C.W. , Kong Alice P.S. , Lee Heung Man , Yu Linda W.L. , Chow Chun-Chung , Ozaki Risa , Ko Gary T.C. , Chan Juliana C.N.
Published: October 2010

OBJECTIVE

The AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway is a master regulator in energy metabolism and may be related to cancer. In type 2 diabetes, low HDL cholesterol predicts cancer, whereas metformin usage is associated with reduced cancer risk. Both metformin and apolipoprotein A1 activate the AMPK signaling pathway. We hypothesize that the anticancer effects of metformin may be particularly evident in type 2 diabetic patients with low HDL cholesterol.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In a consecutive cohort of 2,658 Chinese type 2 diabetic patients enrolled in the study between 1996 and 2005, who were free of cancer and not using metformin at enrollment or during 2.5 years before enrollment and who were followed until 2005, we measured biological interactions for cancer risk using relative excess risk as a result of interaction (RERI) and attributable proportion (AP) as a result of interaction. A statistically significant RERI >0 or AP >0 indicates biological interaction.

RESULTS

During 13,808 person-years of follow-up (median 5.51 years), 129 patients developed cancer. HDL cholesterol <1.0 mmol/L was associated with increased cancer risk among those who did not use metformin, but the association was not significant among those who did. Use of metformin was associated with reduced cancer risk in patients with HDL cholesterol <1.0 mmol/L and, to a lesser extent, in patients with HDL cholesterol ≥1.0 mmol/L. HDL cholesterol <1.0 mmol/L plus nonuse of metformin was associated with an adjusted hazard ratio of 5.75 (95% CI 3.03–10.90) compared with HDL cholesterol ≥1.0 mmol/L plus use of metformin, with a significant interaction (AP 0.44 [95% CI 0.11–0.78]).

CONCLUSIONS

The anticancer effect of metformin was most evident in type 2 diabetic patients with low HDL cholesterol.
Genetic diversity of Avena strigosa Schreb. ecotypes on the basis of isoenzyme markers
Authors: Kubiak Katarzyna
Published: October 2010

Genetic diversity of Avena strigosa Schreb. ecotypes on the basis of isoenzyme markers

Genetic diversity was analyzed in 19 ecotypes of the diploid oat A. strigosa originating from various geographical regions of the world. Six isoenzyme systems (AAT, ACP, EST, LAP, MDH, PX) were studied and 16 loci were identified. Only two loci (Est4 and Mdh2) were polymorphic. Ecotypes were characterized by the percentage of polymorphic loci (P=3.3%), the mean number of alleles per locus (A=1.04) and intrapopulation diversity (HS=0.013). Total genetic diversity (HT=0.07) and interpopulation diversity (DST=0.057) were examined as well. The value of the coefficient of gene differentiation (GST=0.821) indicated that diversity among populations was an important contributor to total variability. Genetic similarity between A. strigosa populations was very high (IN=0.94). Cluster analysis did not demonstrate strongly differentiated groups among the ecotypes examined.
A simple technique of random leaf collecting for biometric studies in a tree stand
Authors: Żółkoś Katarzyna , Meissner Włodzimierz
Published: October 2010

A simple technique of random leaf collecting for biometric studies in a tree stand

The method reflects proportions in the number of leaves of different sizes and shapes, which appear in a tree stand. The study was carried out during autumn leaf fall, in about a hundred years old tree stand, dominated by beech. Leaves were collected three times, altogether with assessment of foliage density. For all gathered leaves, the width and length were measured and the data were statistically analyzed. Differences among all three samples were significant, which indicates different size of falling leaves in the following periods. Thus, only the research carried on at the end of leaves falling allows collecting a sample which represents proportions among leaves of different sizes in the tree stand.
New data on the distribution of dwarf ephemeral wetland vascular plant species and communities in western and north-western Poland
Authors: Popiela Agnieszka , Prajs Bożena , Łysko Andrzej
Published: October 2010

New data on the distribution of dwarf ephemeral wetland vascular plant species and communities in western and north-western Poland

New phytosociological data are provided on Eleocharito-Caricetum bohemicae occurring on the easternmost range border in Central Europe. The distribution maps of selected character species of Eleocharito-Caricetum in Central Europe are presented.
Man-made habitats - hotspots of evolutionary game between grass, fungus and fly
Authors: Lembicz Marlena , Olejniczak Paweł , Olszanowski Ziemowit , Górzyńska Karolina , Leuchtmann Adrian
Published: October 2010

Man-made habitats - hotspots of evolutionary game between grass, fungus and fly

The origin and effects of an evolutionary game between species from three different kingdoms (plants, fungi and animals) are presented. We provide scientific evidence that the interaction discovered in man-made habitats leads to an early stage of coevolution. The grass Puccinellia distans was observed to rapidly spread in new man-made habitats, while at the same time, it was colonised by the fungus Epichloë typhina. The invasion of infected grasses is accompanied by alterations in life histories of both species: P. distans developed features promoting long-distance spreading, whereas E. typhina changed its life cycle by forming sexual structures for the second time, later in the vegetative season. This enables the fungus to make use of the late shoots of the grass for sexual reproduction, even though it cannot be completed because the vector of spermatia necessary for fertilisation, female Botanophila flies, is not present at that time. This indicates that such uncoordinated evolutionary processes had taken place before interactions between organisms became so specialised that it is difficult to presume they were the result of natural selection. Moreover, these processes could have been initiated in man-made habitats that, in particular circumstances, can become coevolutionary hotspots.
Sobralia abadorum (Orchidaceae) - a new orchid species from Peru
Authors: Szlachetko Dariusz , Dudek Magdalena , Górniak Marcin , Mytnik-Ejsmont Joanna , Fernandez Ricardo
Published: October 2010

Sobralia abadorum (Orchidaceae) - a new orchid species from Peru

Sobralia Ruiz & Pav. is one of the largest genus in Orchidaceae. It comprises about 150 species distributed from Mexico to Bolivia. In this paper, a new species of Sobralia from Peru, S. abadorum, is described and illustrated. Its taxonomic affinity is briefly discussed. An analysis of ITS sequences indicates an isolate position of this new species.
A Photovoltaic Device Using an Electrolyte Containing Photosynthetic Reaction Centers
Authors: Takshi Arash , Madden John D.W. , Mahmoudzadeh Ali , Saer Rafael , Beatty J. Thomas
Published: October 2010

The performance of bio-photovoltaic devices with a monolayer of the immobilized photosynthetic reaction center (RC) is generally low because of weak light absorption and poor charge transfer between the RC and the electrode. In this paper, a new bio-photovoltaic device is described in which the RC is dissolved in the electrolyte of an electrochemical cell. The charges generated by the illuminated RC are transferred to electrodes via mediators. The difference between the reaction rates of two types of mediator at the electrode surfaces determines the direction of the photocurrent in the device. Experimental results show that the magnitude of the photocurrent is proportional to the incident light intensity, and the current increases nonlinearly with an increase in the RC concentration in the electrolyte. With further optimization this approach should lead to devices with improved light absorption.
3,5-Di(-O-acetyl)-3′,4′,7-tri[-O-(2-O-acetylethyl)]quercetin
Authors: Liu Yufa , Zhang Liwei
Published: October 2010

A new quercetin derivative, 3,5-di(-O-acetyl)-3′,4′,7-tri[-O-(2-O-acetylethyl)]­quercetin, was synthesized. The structure of the target compound was characterized by IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and MS.
Synthesis of Oligodeoxynucleotides Using Fully Protected Deoxynucleoside 3′-Phosphoramidite Building Blocks and Base Recognition of Oligodeoxynucleotides Incorporating N3-Cyano-Ethylthymine
Authors: Tsunoda Hirosuke , Kudo Tomomi , Ohkubo Akihiro , Seio Kohji , Sekine Mitsuo
Published: October 2010

Oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) synthesis, which avoids the formation of side products, is of great importance to biochemistry-based technology development. One side reaction of ODN synthesis is the cyanoethylation of the nucleobases. We suppressed this reaction by synthesizing ODNs using fully protected deoxynucleoside 3′-phosphoramidite building blocks, where the remaining reactive nucleobase residues were completely protected with acyl-, diacyl-, and acyl-oxyethylene-type groups. The detailed analysis of cyanoethylation at the nucleobase site showed that N3-protection of the thymine base efficiently suppressed the Michael addition of acrylonitrile. An ODN incorporating N3-cyanoethylthymine was synthesized using the phosphoramidite method, and primer extension reactions involving this ODN template were examined. As a result, the modified thymine produced has been proven to serve as a chain terminator.
Synthesis of a Highly Luminescent Three-Dimensional Pyrene Dye Based on the Spirobifluorene Skeleton
Authors: Sumi Kentaro , Konishi Gen-ichi
Published: October 2010

We have synthesized a highly luminescent (log e > 5.0, F > 0.9) pyrene dye based on a spirobifluorene skeleton [2,2′,7,7′-tetrakis(7-tert-butyl-1-pyrenyl)-9,9′-spirobi[9H-fluorene; 4-PySBF]. The use of spirobifluorene prevents fluorescence quenching by intramolecular energy transfer and/or electron transfer among the chromophores in the excited state. The emission spectra of 4-PySBF exhibited a red shift of 20 nm in comparison to a model compound [9,9′-dioctyl-2,7-bis(7-tert-butyl-1-pyrenyl)-9H-fluorene; 2-PyF], but its UV-Vis spectrum remained unchanged.
Design and Implementation of a Digital Angular Rate Sensor
Authors: Wu Li-Feng , Peng Zhen , Zhang Fu-Xue
Published: October 2010

With the aim of detecting the attitude of a rotating carrier, the paper presents a novel, digital angular rate sensor. The sensor consists of micro-sensing elements (gyroscope and accelerometer), signal processing circuit and micro-processor (DSP2812). The sensor has the feature of detecting three angular rates of a rotating carrier at the same time. The key techniques of the sensor, including sensing construction, sensing principles, and signal processing circuit design are presented. The test results show that the sensor can sense rolling, pitch and yaw angular rate at the same time and the measurement error of yaw (or pitch) angular rate and rolling rate of the rotating carrier is less than 0.5%.
Sustainability, Food Security, and Development Aid after the Food Crisis: Assessing Aid Strategies across Donor Contexts
Authors: Essex Jamey
Published: October 2010

The most recent global food crisis has forced development agencies in the global North to rethink the nexus between agricultural development, food aid, and food security, and how development assistance strategies can enhance food security to more effectively respond to or prevent such crises in the future. Central to this rethinking is the concept of sustainability, though the term has shifting and imprecise meanings across different institutional and strategic contexts. Analyzing the strategic response of major state and multilateral development agencies to the global food crisis, this paper examines the diverse and slippery meanings and uses of sustainability in the post-crisis development assistance architecture.
Bilateral Collaboration in Municipal Water and Wastewater Services in Finland
Authors: Kurki Vuokko O. , S. Katko Tapio , Pietilä Pekka E.
Published: October 2010

Several forms of supra-municipal cooperation between water and wastewater utilities have evolved in Finland since the 1950s: bilateral contract-based, municipal federations or authorities operating on a wholesale basis as well as supra-municipal companies. These may take care of community water supply or sewerage, or both. This paper explores and analyzes the most common form of cooperation: contracts for water and wastewater services between neighboring municipalities. The extent of contractual cooperation until 2006 was explored by an inquiry sent to bigger water and wastewater utilities (n = 233 replies; 88 %). Compared to a study performed in 1975, the number of bilateral contracts had tripled. The study also included interviews targeting nine selected cases. We examined also the centralization of wastewater treatment when small plants are closed down and wastewater is directed to larger plants. Centralization has led to the construction of transfer sewers; the paper also explores their evolution from 1995 to 2015. Contrary to common arguments, contractual cooperation proved rather easy to manage and should be seen as a serious option for other tighter forms of supra-municipal cooperation that are also increasing.
The Use of Blast Furnace Slag for Removal of Phosphorus from Wastewater in Sweden—A Review
Authors: Johansson Westholm Lena
Published: October 2010

Research on Phosphorus (P) removal capacity by blast furnace slags (BFS) has been undertaken in Sweden for the last decade. Both laboratory experiments and field trials have been carried out. While laboratory investigations revealed that BFS has a high P-sorption capacity (95–100%), P removal in field trials was much lower, ranging from 40 to 53%. In addition, a number of problems have been observed in BFS field testing including clogging, sulfuric odor and environmental (regulatory) concerns about possible leaching of heavy metals from the slag. In spite of these problems, and questioning by the environmental regulatory authorities, research continues to provide evidence that BFS can be regarded as a suitable filter media, and attempts have also been undertaken in order to further improve the P-removal capacity of this adsorbing material.
Development and characterization of microsatellite loci in Taihangia rupestris (Rosaceae), a rare cliff herb
Authors: Wang Hong‐Wei , Zhang Bing , Wang Zhao‐Shan , Cheng Yue‐Qin , Ye Yong‐Zhong
Published: October 2010

• Premise of the study: Microsatellite primers were developed for the rare Taihangia rupestris (Rosaceae) to evaluate genetic diversity, population genetic structure, mating system, and demographic events of this species.

• Methods and Results: Ten primer sets were developed using an enriched genomic library and were successfully amplified in T. rupestris var. ciliata and T. rupestris var. rupestris. The number of alleles per locus ranged from 2 to 21; the observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.300 to 0.950 and from 0.328 to 0.956, respectively, in the two varieties.

• Conclusions: The markers described here will be useful for studies of genetic variation, genetic structure, and mating systems of T. rupestris, which are important for the future conservation of this rare species.
Evaluation of Novel Phosphoramidate ProTides of the 2′-Fluoro Derivatives of a Potent Anti-Varicella Zoster Virus Bicyclic Nucleoside Analogue
Authors: Derudas Marco , Quintiliani Maurizio , Brancale Andrea , Andrei Graciela , Snoeck Robert , Balzarini Jan , McGuigan Christopher
Published: October 2010

Background:

Recently, the synthesis and antiviral activity of a series of 2′-fluoro derivatives of the most potent anti-varicella zoster virus (VZV) agent reported to date, the bicyclic nucleoside analogue Cf1743, have been reported.

Methods:

Here, we present molecular modelling studies for the interaction of these compounds with VZV-encoded thymidine kinase (TK) and we report the synthesis of a series of phosphoramidate ProTides of these compounds designed to bypass the nucleoside kinase dependence of the parent nucleoside analogues.

Results:

The phosphoramidate prodrugs were equally effective as their parent compounds against VZV in cell culture, but lost antiviral potency against TK-deficient VZV strains.

Conclusions:

ProTide-based kinase bypass is not successful in this case.
Antiviral therapy for hepatitis B in special populations
Authors: Zhang Fu-Kui , Liu Dian-Gang , Jia Ji-Dong
Published: October 2010

There has been much progress in antiviral therapy for chronic hepatitis B; however, antiviral therapy for hepatitis B in special populations is still very challenging. Here, we review antiviral therapy for hepatitis B in special populations, including children and pregnant patients, patients with hepatitis-B-related cirrhosis, patients with acute hepatitis B and chronic hepatitis B surface antigen carriers who receive immunosuppressive or cytotoxic therapy. Major advances have been made in antiviral therapy for hepatitis B in these special populations because of recent increasing availability of oral nucleoside/nucleotide analogues that are well-tolerated and highly effective; however, the findings are mostly based on small uncontrolled short-term studies. More well-designed clinical studies on antiviral therapy for hepatitis B in these special populations are urgently needed to obtain more evidence-based high-quality data.
Amino acid substitutions in core and NS5A regions of the HCV genome can predict virological decrease with pegylated interferon plus ribavirin therapy
Authors: Kitamura Shosuke , Tsuge Masataka , Hatakeyama Tsuyoshi , Abe Hiromi , Imamura Michio , Mori Nami , Saneto Hiromi , Kawaoka Tomokazu , Mitsui Fukiko , Hiraga Nobuhiko , Takaki Shintaro , Kawakami Yoshiiku , Aikata Hiroshi , Takahashi Shoichi , Ohishi Waka , Ochi Hidenori , Hayes C Nelson , Chayama Kazuaki
Published: October 2010

Background

The current standard therapy for chronic hepatitis C is pegylated interferon (PEG-IFN) plus ribavirin (RBV) combination therapy. Recently, it has been reported that amino acid (aa) substitutions in the core region, as well as the IFN-sensitivity-determining region (ISDR), were predictive of non-virological response (NVR), sustained virological response (SVR) and early virological response. Despite the importance of these two predictive factors for combination therapy, their interaction is poorly understood.

Methods

A total of 117 patients who were treated with PEG-IFN-α2b plus RBV combination therapy were selected for participation in this study. We determined the aa sequences in the core region and ISDR by direct sequencing and analysed them along with clinical data to indentify predictive factors for therapeutic response.

Results

The aa sequences in the core region and γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (GTP) levels were associated with SVR and NVR, but aa sequences in the ISDR were not. However, substitutions at both aa 70 and aa 91 in the core region without substitutions in the ISDR and higher levels of γ-GTP were independent predictive factors for NVR. Wild-type aa 70 and aa 91 in the core region, higher platelet counts and lower levels of γ-GTP were independent predictive factors for SVR.

Conclusions

These results indicate that analyses of aa substitutions in both the core region and the ISDR are useful for predicting the effectiveness of combination therapy, and could help to avoid therapy exposure for patients who have a low probability of SVR.
Concilier, organiser, renoncer : quel genre d'arrangements ?
Authors: Pailhé Ariane , Solaz Anne
Published: October 2010

Résumé Au-delà du débat virulent dans les milieux féministes sur l’utilisation du terme de conciliation, cet article établit un bilan de l’articulation famille-travail. Les arrangements entre famille et travail continuent à reposer majoritairement sur les femmes, de plus en plus au cours du cycle de vie. Les nouvelles organisations du travail et la segmentation du marché du travail entretiennent cette division sexuée. Les employeurs peuvent contribuer à limiter les tensions entre travail et vie familiale, notamment en permettant une organisation du travail plus souple. Mais, quelle que soit leur situation familiale, les travailleurs ne bénéficient pas du même soutien de la part de leurs entreprises : de fortes inégalités selon les secteurs et les types d’emploi persistent.
Les limites des politiques publiques de soutien à la paternité
Authors: Boyer Danielle , Céroux Benoît
Published: October 2010

Résumé Il s’agit ici de mettre au jour les paradoxes contemporains de la définition sociale de la paternité au regard des modèles prescriptifs de son exercice et des discours portés par les pères sur leur expérience paternelle. La paternité qui s’en dégage semble davantage circonscrite à un acte volontaire plus qu’à une injonction sociale à l’investissement paternel, et les pères n’ont pas tous la même volonté de s’investir auprès de l’enfant. En ce sens, il s’agirait d’une paternité d’intention, que des obstacles de tous ordres empêcheraient certains de rendre effectives. La norme de l’adulte travailleur contribue ainsi sans doute à renforcer l’assignation des hommes dans la sphère professionnelle.
De la conciliation à la resilience : 40 ans d'évolution lexicale aux États-Unis
Authors: Ollier-Malaterre Ariane
Published: October 2010

Résumé Alors que la question de la “conciliation” commence à peine à être prise en compte par les entreprises françaises, les employeurs américains développent ces pratiques depuis près de quarante ans. Le choix par les gestionnaires de ressources humaines et les chercheurs du vocabulaire employé pour les désigner, de « work-family » à « work-life », puis à « résilience », reflète à la fois une compréhension plus fine de la question au fil du temps, et les stratégies déployées pour surmonter les obstacles. La perception de cette question comme étant un problème de femmes restreignait l’usage des pratiques proposées par les employeurs et pénalisait les utilisatrices. L’absorption de la conciliation dans le lexique de la santé, du bien-être et de la résilience tente de contourner les stéréotypes liés au genre et pourrait de ce fait assurer une meilleure efficacité des pratiques.
Allaiter et travailler : puisqu'on vous dit que c'est possible
Authors: Bardon Hugues
Published: October 2010

Résumé Le discours de promotion de l’allaitement maternel semble avoir évolué depuis une vingtaine d’années, affirmant aujourd’hui la compatibilité entre cette pratique et une activité professionnelle. Cependant, à y regarder de plus près, cette évolution n’est en réalité que purement rhétorique, s’articulant notamment autour de la notion de conciliation, entre maternité et vie professionnelle. Un travail de déconstruction de l’argumentaire qui y est développé montre qu’il vise et énonce parfois même clairement une réduction, voire l’arrêt, de l’activité professionnelle des femmes au profit du maintien inconditionnel de l’allaitement. L’analyse de ces discours révèle l’existence d’une formation discursive prescriptive d’un ensemble de conduites et de comportements normalisés et dresse un modèle de mères, en jouant sur des ressorts tels que la culpabilité pour s’assurer l’adhésion de celles-ci.
TLR-Activated Dendritic Cells Enhance the Response of Aged Naive CD4 T Cells via an IL-6–Dependent Mechanism
Authors: Jones Stephen C. , Brahmakshatriya Vinayak , Huston Gail , Dibble John , Swain Susan L.
Published: October 2010

The most effective immunological adjuvants contain microbial products, such as TLR agonists, which bind to conserved pathogen recognition receptors. These activate dendritic cells (DCs) to become highly effective APCs. We assessed whether TLR ligand-treated DCs can enhance the otherwise defective response of aged naive CD4 T cells. In vivo administration of CpG, polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid, and Pam3CSK4 in combination with Ag resulted in the increased expression of costimulatory molecules and MHC class II by DCs, increased serum levels of the inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and RANTES, and increased cognate CD4 T cell responses in young and aged mice. We show that, in vitro, preactivation of DCs by TLR ligands makes them more efficient APCs for aged naive CD4 T cells. After T–DC interaction, there are enhanced production of inflammatory cytokines, particularly IL-6, and greater expansion of the aged T cells, resulting from increased proliferation and greater effector survival with increased levels of Bcl-2. TLR preactivation of both bone marrow-derived and ex vivo DCs improved responses. IL-6 produced by the activated DCs during cognate T cell interaction was necessary for enhanced aged CD4 T cell expansion and survival. These studies suggest that some age-associated immune defects may be overcome by targeted activation of APCs by TLR ligands.
EBV Latent Membrane Protein 1 Is a Negative Regulator of TLR9
Authors: Fathallah Ikbal , Parroche Peggy , Gruffat Henri , Zannetti Claudia , Johansson Hanna , Yue Jiping , Manet Evelyn , Tommasino Massimo , Sylla Bakary S. , Hasan Uzma A.
Published: October 2010

EBV infects most of the human population and is associated with a number of human diseases including cancers. Moreover, evasion of the immune system and chronic infection is an essential step for EBV-associated diseases. In this paper, we show that EBV can alter the regulation and expression of TLRs, the key effector molecules of the innate immune response. EBV infection of human primary B cells resulted in the inhibition of TLR9 functionality. Stimulation of TLR9 on primary B cells led to the production of IL-6, TNF-α, and IgG, which was inhibited in cells infected with EBV. The virus exerts its inhibitory function by decreasing TLR9 mRNA and protein levels. This event was observed at early time points after EBV infection of primary cells, as well as in an immortalized lymphoblastoid cell line. We determined that the EBV oncoprotein latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1) is a strong inhibitor of TLR9 transcription. Overexpression of LMP1 in B cells reduced TLR9 promoter activity, mRNA, and protein levels. LMP1 mutants altered in activating the NF-κB pathway prevented TLR9 promoter deregulation. Blocking the NF-κB pathway recovered TLR9 promoter activity. Mutating the NF-κB cis element on the TLR9 promoter restored luciferase transcription in the presence of LMP1. Finally, deletion of the LMP1 gene in the EBV genome abolished the ability of the virus to induce TLR9 downregulation. Our study describes a mechanism used by EBV to suppress the host immune response by deregulating the TLR9 transcript through LMP1-mediated NF-κB activation.
Lymphocyte Development RequiresS-nitrosoglutathione Reductase
Authors: Yang Zhiyong , Wang Zhi-En , Doulias Paschalis-Thomas , Wei Wei , Ischiropoulos Harry , Locksley Richard M. , Liu Limin
Published: October 2010

NO is critical to immunity, but its role in the development of the immune system is unknown. In this study, we show that S-nitrosoglutathione reductase (GSNOR), a protein key to the control of protein S-nitrosylation, is important for the development of lymphocytes. Genetic deletion of GSNOR in mice results in significant decrease in both T and B lymphocytes in the periphery. In thymus, GSNOR deficiency causes excessive protein S-nitrosylation, increases apoptosis, and reduces the number of CD4 single-positive thymocytes. Lymphopenia and increase in S-nitrosylation and apoptosis in GSNOR-deficient mice are largely abolished by genetic deletion of inducible NO synthase. Furthermore, the protection of lymphocyte development by GSNOR is apparently intrinsic to hematopoietic cells. Thus, GSNOR, likely through regulation of S-nitrosylation and apoptosis, physiologically plays a protective role in the development of the immune system.
Galectin-3 Exerts Cytokine-Like Regulatory Actions through the JAK–STAT Pathway
Authors: Jeon Sae-Bom , Yoon Hee Jung , Chang Chi Young , Koh Han Seok , Jeon Seong-Ho , Park Eun Jung
Published: October 2010

Galectin-3, a β-galactoside–binding lectin, has been proposed to have multifaceted functions in various pathophysiological conditions. However, the characteristics of galectin-3 and its molecular mechanisms of action are still largely unknown. In this study, we show that galectin-3 exerts cytokine-like regulatory actions in rat and mouse brain-resident immune cells. Both the expression of galectin-3 and its secretion into the extracellular compartment were significantly enhanced in glia under IFN-γ–stimulated, inflamed conditions. After exposure to galectin-3, glial cells produced high levels of proinflammatory mediators and exhibited activated properties. Notably, within minutes after exposure to galectin-3, JAK2 and STAT1, STAT3, and STAT5 showed considerable enhancement of tyrosine phosphorylation; thereafter, downstream events of STAT signaling were also significantly enhanced. Treatment of the cells with pharmacological inhibitors of JAK2 reduced the galectin-3–stimulated increases of inflammatory mediators. Using IFN-γ receptor 1–deficient mice, we further found that IFN-γR 1 might be required for galectin-3–dependent activation of the JAK–STAT cascade. However, galectin-3 significantly induced phosphorylation of STATs in glial cells from IFN-γ–deficient mice, suggesting that IFN-γ does not mediate activation of STATs. Collectively, our findings suggest that galectin-3 acts as an endogenous danger signaling molecule under pathological conditions in the brain, providing a potential explanation for the molecular basis of galectin-3–associated pathological events.
Tripartite-Motif Protein 30 Negatively Regulates NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation by Modulating Reactive Oxygen Species Production
Authors: Hu Yu , Mao Kairui , Zeng Yan , Chen Shuzhen , Tao Zhiyun , Yang Chen , Sun Shuhui , Wu Xiaodong , Meng Guangxun , Sun Bing
Published: November 2010

The NLR family, pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is critical for caspase-1 activation and the proteolytic processing of pro–IL-1β. However, the mechanism that regulates NLRP3 inflammasome activation remains unclear. In this paper, we demonstrate that tripartite-motif protein 30 (TRIM30) negatively regulates NLRP3 inflammasome activation. After stimulation with ATP, an agonist of the NLRP3 inflammasome, knockdown of TRIM30 enhanced caspase-1 activation and increased production of IL-1β in both J774 cells and bone marrow-derived macrophages. Similarly with ATP, knockdown of TRIM30 increased caspase-1 activation and IL-1β production triggered by other NLRP3 inflammasome agonists, including nigericin, monosodium urate, and silica. Production of reactive oxygen species was increased in TRIM30 knockdown cells, and its increase was required for enhanced NLRP3 inflammasome activation, because antioxidant treatment blocked excess IL-1β production. Conversely, overexpression of TRIM30 attenuated reactive oxygen species production and NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Finally, in a crystal-induced NLRP3 inflammasome-dependent peritonitis model, monosodium urate-induced neutrophil flux and IL-1β production was reduced significantly in TRIM30 transgenic mice as compared with that in their nontransgenic littermates. Taken together, our results indicate that TRIM30 is a negative regulator of NLRP3 inflammasome activation and provide insights into the role of TRIM30 in maintaining inflammatory responses.
Methyl Gallate Exhibits Potent Antitumor Activities by Inhibiting Tumor Infiltration of CD4+CD25+ Regulatory T Cells
Authors: Lee Heekyung , Lee Hyojung , Kwon Youngjoo , Lee Jun-Ho , Kim Jinju , Shin Min-Kyu , Kim Sung-Hoon , Bae Hyunsu
Published: November 2010

CD4+CD25+ regulatory T (Treg) cells play crucial roles in the host response to tumors. Increasing evidence supports the existence of elevated numbers of Treg cells in solid tumors and hematologic malignancies. In this study, the effects of methyl gallate on Treg cells were examined. Methyl gallate inhibited Treg cell-suppressive effects on effector CD4+ T cells and Treg migration toward tumor environment. The expression of Treg surface markers including CTLA-4, CCR4, CXCR4, and glucocorticoid-induced TNFR was significantly suppressed upon methyl gallate treatment. Furthermore, forkhead box P3 (Foxp3) expression was also significantly decreased by methyl gallate, suggesting that the suppressive effects of methyl gallate on Treg were medicated by decrease of Treg-specific transcription factor Foxp3. In tumor-bearing hosts, methyl gallate treatment substantially reduced tumor growth and prolonged the survival rate. In contrast, nu/nu mice did not show decreased tumor progression in response to methyl gallate. In addition, in tumor-bearing Treg-depleted mice, tumor growth and the survival rates were not changed by methyl gallate treatment, strongly suggesting that the main therapeutic target of methyl gallate in tumor suppression was related to modulation of the CD4+CD25+ Treg cell functions. In the spleen of tumor-bearing mice, methyl gallate treatment induced a significant decrease in the CD4+CD25+Foxp3high Treg cell population. Especially, the number of tumor-infiltrating CD25+Foxp3high Treg cells was significantly lower in methyl gallate-treated mice. These results suggest that methyl gallate can be used to reverse immune suppression and as a potentially useful adjunct for enhancing the efficacy of immune-based cancer therapy.