bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A microarray gene analysis of peripheral whole blood in normal adult male rats after long-term GH gene therapy
Authors: Qin Ying , Tian Ya-Ping
Published: January 2010

The main aims of this study were to determine the effects of GH gene abuse/misuse in normal animals and to discover genes that could be used as candidate biomarkers for the detection of GH gene therapy abuse/misuse in humans. We determined the global gene expression profile of peripheral whole blood from normal adult male rats after long-term GH gene therapy using CapitalBio 27 K Rat Genome Oligo Arrays. Sixty one genes were found to be differentially expressed in GH gene-treated rats 24 weeks after receiving GH gene therapy, at a two-fold higher or lower level compared to the empty vector group (p < 0.05). These genes were mainly associated with angiogenesis, oncogenesis, apoptosis, immune networks, signaling pathways, general metabolism, type I diabetes mellitus, carbon fixation, cell adhesion molecules, and cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction. The results imply that exogenous GH gene expression in normal subjects is likely to induce cellular changes in the metabolism, signal pathways and immunity. A real-time qRT-PCR analysis of a selection of the genes confirmed the microarray data. Eight differently expressed genes were selected as candidate biomarkers from among these 61 genes. These 8 showed five-fold higher or lower expression levels after the GH gene transduction (p < 0.05). They were then validated in real-time PCR experiments using 15 single-treated blood samples and 10 control blood samples. In summary, we detected the gene expression profiles of rat peripheral whole blood after long-term GH gene therapy and screened eight genes as candidate biomarkers based on the microarray data. This will contribute to an increased mechanistic understanding of the effects of chronic GH gene therapy abuse/misuse in normal subjects.
Pseudopecoelus sosoae sp. nov. and P. sewelli (Digenea, Opecoelidae) from the deep-sea fish Neoscombrops pacificus (Perciformes, Acropomatidae) off New Caledonia
Authors: Bray Rodney , Justine Jean-Lou
Published: February 2010

Pseudopecoelus sosoae sp. nov. and P. sewelli Bray, 1990 are described from the rare fish Neoscombrops pacificus from the deep-sea (about 200–400 m) off Nouméa, New Caledonia, the southernmost report of this fish species. A visual key based on 12 characters is presented, which shows that P. sosoae is distinguished from the most similar species (P. vulgaris, P. elongatus, P. priacanthi, P. akamachi and P. sphyraenae) by its very large eggs, elongate body and unlobed gonads. P. sewelli has a similar shape, but much smaller eggs and lobed gonads.
Digenean trematodes of Seriolella porosa (Pisces, Centrolophidae) in San Matías Gulf, Argentina
Authors: Guagliardo Silvia , Schwerdt Carla , Martorelli Sergio , Galeano Noelia , Tanzola Ruben
Published: February 2010

Seriolella porosa (Silver warehou) is an important fish resource in the Argentine Sea. No previous studies have been carried out to date on its parasite fauna. The present study aims to (i) identify the digenean trematodes that parasitize Silver warehou, (ii) estimate parasite frequency and abundance, and (iii) establish their relationship with fish size and sex. A total of 100 specimens of S. porosa from San Matías Gulf, Argentina were examined between September and October 2006. Host size and sex were determined. Parasites extracted from the stomach lumen were fixed, conserved in 5% formalin, and stained with Langeron’s hydrochloric carmine. The following parameters were also determined: dispersion coefficient, prevalence, intensity, and parasite abundance. Differences in parasitism were assessed using non-parametric tests. Four adult digenean species were found in the stomach, namely Lecithocladium cristatum, Aponurus laguncula, Elytrophalloides oatesi and Gonocerca cf. phycidis. L. cristatum was not only dominant but also the most prevalent and abundant species. None of the digeneans showed interspecific association with each other and therefore they might follow different patterns of colonization (i.e., different intermediate hosts, seasonal and/or spatial distribution of the infective stages). Significant differences were observed among the digeneans analyzed in respect to the sex of the host. Results from this study show that Silver warehou plays a key role as a final host of a significant number of digeneans in the ecosystem. This study is the first step in an attempt to further determine the larval stages in intermediate hosts in San Matías Gulf.
Redescription of Monodontella giraffae Yorke et Maplestone, 1926 (Nematoda, Ancylostomatidae) from a giraffe, Giraffa camelopardalis, from Zoo in China, with a discussion on the taxonomic status of Monodontella
Authors: Ming Zhu , Zhang Li , Zhang Luping
Published: February 2010

Monodontella giraffae Yorke et Maplestone, 1926 was collected from the biliary duct of liver of a dead giraffe, Giraffa camelopardalis (Linnaeus) from the Tianjin Zoo, Tianjin, China. A redescription of this species was made using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The lateral alae and the detailed structures of the spicules and genital cone were observed for the first time by SEM. The taxonomic status of the genus is discussed.
Introgression of distant mitochondria into the genome of Gyrodactylus salaris: Nuclear and mitochondrial markers are necessary to identify parasite strains
Authors: Ziętara Marek , Rokicka Magdalena , Stojanovski Stojmir , Lumme Jaakko
Published: February 2010

Novel combinations of mitochondrial DNA (CO1) and internal transcribed spacers of nuclear ribosomal DNA (ITS) were detected among Gyrodactylus parasites on brown trout (Salmo trutta L.), rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum)), and Ohrid trout (Salmo letnica (Karaman)) from salmonid farms in Poland and Macedonia. Some clones differed from standard ITS only by ≤ 4 nucleotides, but they belonged to a mtDNA clade that differed from the Northern European lineages of G. salaris by d MCL = 0.266 ± 0.108 (maximum composite likelihood distance). The divergence of d MCL = 0.013 ± 0.005 within the alien mtDNA clade suggested introgression from an unknown maternal ancestor into the G. salaris Malmberg genome 137 to 57 kyr ago (or, less probably, repeated introgression). A comparable modern hybrid was detected based on permanently heterozygous ITS (28 bp/1264 = 2.2%) in a clone that is widespread throughout Finnish rainbow trout farms. This was a F1 hybrid of maternal G. pomeraniae Kuusela, Ziętara et Lumme (on roach, Rutilus rutilus (L.)) and G. lavareti Malmberg (on whitefish, Coregonus lavaretus (L.)). The mtDNA of the parental species differed by d MCL = 0.290 ± 0.130. The observations emphasize that both nuclear and maternally-inherited DNA markers are necessary to characterize sexually-produced lineages or clones of Gyrodactylus. The hybridization events demonstrated predict incongruence of mitochondrial vs. nuclear gene trees, i.e., reticulate evolution in species trees.
Femoroacetabular Impingement in a Running Athlete
Authors: Ames Peter S. , Heikes Christie S.
Published: January 2010

A 40-year-old man was referred to physical therapy by his primary care physician for a chief complaint of proximal left groin/quadriceps pain, which had been present for the past 3 months after initiating a running program. In addition to initiating a physical therapy treatment plan, the referring physician was consulted to discuss possible diagnostic imaging, primarily due to the worsening symptoms and loss of hip range of motion. Radiographic evaluation, including frog leg lateral and anterior-posterior pelvic views, demonstrated decreased femoral head-neck offset, with prominence of the femoral head-neck junction. The patient then underwent magnetic resonance imaging, which demonstrated some prominence of the anterolateral femoral head-neck junction. The patient was referred to an orthopaedic surgeon and subsequently underwent a proximal femoral osteoplasty with labral repair. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2010;40(2):120. doi:10.2519/jospt.2010.0402
Enchondroma in a Running Athlete With Persistent Mid-Thigh Pain
Authors: Pappas Evangelos , Zazulak Bohdanna T. , Katz Lee D.
Published: January 2010

The patient was a 22-year-old male who developed right mid-thigh pain after increasing his running mileage in a short period. Anterior-posterior and lateral radiographs of the femur were completed and interpreted as normal, and the patient was diagnosed with a muscle strain. Three months later the patient was seen by a sports medicine physician because of persistent right mid-thigh pain with running. Repeat radiographs revealed periosteal thickening of the medial cortex of the right femur consisten with a stress reaction and subtle irregular calcifications in the central diaphysis of the femur. The patient was diagnosed with a femoral shaft stress fracture and referred for magnetic resonance imaging, which revealed a lobular lesion occupying the marrow space of the femoral diaphysis that measure approximately 6.5 cm in the craniocaudal dimension. The patient was diagnosed with an echondroma of the distal femoral shaft. After pursuing a non-surgical course of care, the patient opted for surgical intervention based on continued pain and a desire to return to athletic activities. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2010;40(2):121. doi:10.2519/jospt.2010.0403
Distinct Hip and Rearfoot Kinematics in Female Runners With a History of Tibial Stress Fracture
Authors: Milner Clare E. , Hamill Joseph , Davis Irene S.
Published: January 2010

Study Design

Cross-sectional controlled laboratory study.

Objectives

To investigate the kinematics of the hip, knee, and rearfoot in the frontal and transverse planes in female distance runners with a history of tibial stress fracture.

Background

Tibial stress fractures are a common overuse injury in runners, accounting for up to half of all stress fractures. Abnormal kinematics of the lower extremity may contribute to abnormal musculoskeletal load distributions, leading to an increased risk of stress fractures.

Methods

Thirty female runners with a history of tibial stress fracture were compared to 30 age-matched and weekly-running-distance-matched control subjects with no previous lower extremity bony injuries. Kinematic and kinetic data were collected using a motion capture system and a force platform, respectively, as subjects ran in the laboratory. Selected variables of interest were compared between the groups using a multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA).

Results

Peak hip adduction and peak rearfoot eversion angles were greater in the stress fracture group compared to the control group. Peak knee adduction and knee internal rotation angles and all joint angles at impact peak were similar between the groups.

Conclusion

Runners with a previous tibial stress fracture exhibited greater peak hip adduction and rearfoot eversion angles during the stance phase of running compared to healthy controls. A consequence of these mechanics may be altered load distribution within the lower extremity, predisposing individuals to stress fracture. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2010;40(2):59–66. doi:10.2519/jospt.2010.3024
Time Line for Noncopers to Pass Return-to-Sports Criteria After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Hartigan Erin H. , Axe Michael J. , Snyder-Mackler Lynn
Published: January 2010

Study Design

Randomized clinical trial.

Objectives

Determine effective interventions for improving readiness to return to sports post-operatively in patients with complete, unilateral, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture who do not compensate well after the injury (noncopers). Specifically, we compared the effects of 2 preoperative interventions on quadriceps strength and functional outcomes.

Background

The percentage of athletes who return to sports after ACL reconstruction varies considerably, possibly due to differential responses after acute ACL rupture and different management. Prognostic data for noncopers following ACL reconstruction is absent in the literature.

Methods

Forty noncopers were randomly assigned to receive either progressive quadriceps strength-training exercises (STR group) or perturbation training in conjunction with strength-training exercises (PERT group) for 10 preoperative rehabilitation sessions. Postoperative rehabilitation was similar between groups. Data on quadriceps strength indices [(involved limb/uninvolved limb force) × 100], 4 hop score indices, and 2 self-report questionnaires were collected preoperatively and 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Mann-Whitney U tests were used to compare functional differences between the groups. Chi-square tests were used to compare frequencies of passing functional criteria and reasons for differences in performance between groups postoperatively.

Results

Functional outcomes were not different between groups, except a greater number of patients in the PERT group achieved global rating scores (current knee function expressed as a percentage of overall knee function prior to injury) necessary to pass return-to-sports criteria 6 and 12 months after surgery. Mean scores for each functional outcome met return-to-sports criteria 6 and 12 months postoperatively. Frequency counts of individual data, however, indicated that 5% of noncopers passed RTS criteria at 3, 48% at 6, and 78% at 12 months after surgery.

Conclusion

Functional outcomes suggest that a subgroup of noncopers require additional supervised rehabilitation to pass stringent criteria to return to sports.

Level of Evidence

Therapy, level 2b. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2010;40(3):141–154. doi:10.2519/jospt.2010.3168
Translating the Body: Towards an Erotics of Translation
Authors: West Kevin
Published: February 2010

By seeking the impossible goal of full understanding, the translator as a maximally engaged reader seeks the plenitude of another's words as a surrogate of the elusive Other. Translation as at once a physical, mental, and emotional attempt fully to understand another's utterances thus constitutes a process of complete engagement characterized by the desire for knowledge. Such desire can be deemed erotic inasmuch as it hopes to dissolve the customary separation of minds and attain oneness of understanding. A particular moment in the English translation of Umberto Eco's Il nome della rosa involving the translation of a description of an erotic body part introduces the erotics of translation more broadly. Evidence from the translation journals of Eco's translator William Weaver, as well as Eco's own remarks on translation, are brought to bear. Thereafter discussion moves into more theoretical material, including George Steiner's key observations on translational erotics, and finally addressing three further ‘moments’: a linguistic appropriation of Georges Bataille's erotism, Augustine's account of language acquisition, and the matter of the bodily translation of the biblical Enoch.
Heavy Metals in Soil and Crops of an Intensively Farmed Area: A Case Study in Yucheng City, Shandong Province, China
Authors: Jia Lin , Wang Wuyi , Li Yonghua , Yang Linsheng
Published: February 2010

Yucheng City is located in northwestern Shandong Province, China, and is situated on the Huang-Huai-Hai Plain, the largest alluvial plain in China. In this study, 86 surface soil samples were collected in Yucheng City and analyzed for cation exchange capacity (CEC), soil organic matter (SOM), pH, available phosphorus (avail. P), phosphorus (P), aluminum (Al), and iron (Fe). These soils were also analyzed for ‘total’ chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), arsenic (As), mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb), together with 92 wheat samples and 37 corn samples. There was no obvious heavy metal contamination in the soil and irrigation water. But the long-term accumulation of heavy metals in soil has lead to an increase of Ni, As, Hg and Pb concentrations in some of wheat and corn samples and Cd in wheat samples. Because of the numerous sources of soil heavy metals and the lower level of heavy metal in irrigation water, there is no significant relation between soil heavy metal concentrations and irrigation water concentrations. Cr, Ni were mainly from the indigenous clay minerals according to multivariate analysis. Little contribution to soil heavy metal contents from agricultural fertilizer use was found and the local anomalies of As, Cd, Hg, Pb in wheat and corn grain are attributed to the interactive effects of irrigation and fertilizer used. Aerial Hg, however may also be the source of Hg for soil, wheat and corn.
Natural Occurrence of 2′,5′-Linked Heteronucleotides in Marine Sponges
Authors: Lopp Annika , Reintamm Tönu , Kuusksalu Anne , Tammiste Indrek , Pihlak Arno , Kelve Merike
Published: February 2010

2′,5′-oligoadenylate synthetases (OAS) as a component of mammalian interferon-induced antiviral enzymatic system catalyze the oligomerization of cellular ATP into 2′,5′-linked oligoadenylates (2-5A). Though vertebrate OASs have been characterized as 2′-nucleotidyl transferases under in vitro conditions, the natural occurrence of 2′,5′-oligonucleotides other than 2-5A has never been demonstrated. Here we have demonstrated that OASs from the marine sponges Thenea muricata and Chondrilla nucula are able to catalyze in vivo synthesis of 2-5A as well as the synthesis of a series 2′,5′-linked heteronucleotides which accompanied high levels of 2′,5′-diadenylates. In dephosphorylated perchloric acid extracts of the sponges, these heteronucleotides were identified as A2′p5′G, A2′p5′U, A2′p5′C, G2′p5′A and G2′p5′U. The natural occurrence of 2′-adenylated NAD+ was also detected. In vitro assays demonstrated that besides ATP, GTP was a good substrate for the sponge OAS, especially for OAS from C. nucula. Pyrimidine nucleotides UTP and CTP were also used as substrates for oligomerization, giving 2′,5′-linked homo-oligomers. These data refer to the substrate specificity of sponge OASs that is remarkably different from that of vertebrate OASs. Further studies of OASs from sponges may help to elucidate evolutionary and functional aspects of OASs as proteins of the nucleotidyltransferase family.
Energy Renovation of Buildings Utilizing the U-value Meter, a New Heat Loss Measuring Device
Authors: Sørensen Lars Schiøtt
Published: February 2010

A new device with the ability to measure heat loss from building facades is proposed. Yet to be commercially developed, the U-value Meter can be used as stand-alone apparatus, or in combination with thermographic-equipment. The U-value meter complements thermographs, which only reproduce surface temperature and not the heat loss distribution. There is need for a device that measures the heat loss in a quantitative manner. Convective as well as radiative heat losses are captured and measured with a five-layer thermal system. Heat losses are measured in the SI-unit W/m2K. The aim is to achieve more cost-effective building renovation, and provide a means to check the fulfillment of Building Regulation requirements with respect to stated U-values (heat transmission coefficients). In this way it should be possible to greatly reduce energy consumption of buildings.
Conceptualizing the Creative Tourist Class: Technology, Mobility, and Tourism Experiences
Authors: Gretzel Ulrike , Jamal Tazim
Published: February 2010

Increasing mobilities and an ever greater amount of technologies that support creativity have led to the emergence of a so-called Creative Class in our postmodern society. Creative Class members have distinctive experiences that blur the boundaries between everyday and touristic life. These experiences challenge conventional typologies of the tourist experience and have tremendous implications for tourism research and practice. In this article we discuss first what the Creative Class is, what experiences it has, and how it uses emerging technologies to create, mediate, and reconstruct these experiences. A special emphasis is placed on the relationship the Creative Class has with technology, in particular consumer-generated media. The discussion draws on literature from different fields, stressing the need for an interdisciplinary perspective to analyze and understand the phenomenon. Next, the article proposes that there is indeed an emergence of a creative tourist class with distinct tourism experiences. We then argue that these insights call for a new conceptualization of tourism experiences in general. A tourism experience sphere is presented and described that seeks to overcome some of the limitations of our current conceptualization and understanding of tourists' experiences. The sphere represents a multidimensional space enabling combinations of experience aspects and dimensions (these are illustrative items and not meant to be an exhaustive categorization). The article closes with an agenda for future research regarding tourism experiences, creative tourists, tourism product development, and tourism marketing.
First Report of CTX-M-14 Producing Clinical Isolates of Salmonella serovar Typhimurium from Egypt.
Authors: AbdelGhani Sameh M.M. , Moland Ellen Smith , Black Jennifer A. , Hanson Nancy D. , Goering Richard V. , Amine Magdy A. , Saafan Amal E. , Gaafar Maha , Younan Mariam , Thomson Kenneth S.
Published: February 2010

Three pediatric isolates of Salmonella serovar Typhimurium from Egypt were reported asCTX-M-14 ESBL producers. Two of the 3 isolates (68 and 111) were 85% related by PFGE;however both were distinct from isolate 94. All three isolates produced multiple clavulanate sensitive β-lactamase bands on IEF with pIs of 7.9 and 5.4 (all isolates), while pI 8.2 enzyme was produced by isolate 94 and pI 7.4 enzyme by isolate 111. The pI 7.9 enzyme was transferable by conjugation and conferred a CTX-M ESBL phenotype. PCR and sequencing identified the CTX-M gene as CTX-M-14. Genes for OXA-1 and SHV-12 were also identified by sequencing. To our knowledge this is the first report of CTX-M-producing Salmonella in Egypt.
Prevalence, Awareness, Treatment, and Control of Hypertension in Romania: Results of the SEPHAR Study
Authors: Dorobantu M. , Darabont R. O. , Badila E. , Ghiorghe S.
Published: February 2010

East European countries have reported high prevalence of Arterial Hypertension (AHT). In order to investigate the data for Romania, we firstly performed a national survey—the Study for the Evaluation of Prevalence of Hypertension and Cardiovascular Risk in Adult Population in Romania (SEPHAR). A representative population was selected using stratified proportional sampling, including 2017 adult subjects,≥18years old. The general prevalence of AHT was 44,92%, higher in men (50,17%) than in women (41,11%) (P<.0001) and predominant in rural areas (49,47%) in comparison to the urban ones (41,58%) (P<.02). AHT awareness attended 44,26%, rising with age, significantly lower in men (34,58%) than in women (52,8%) (P<.0006). We have found a 38,85% proportion of treated hypertensive persons, worse for men (30,11%) then for women (46,56%) (P<.003). The rate of AHT control was 19,88%, with no significant differences between gender. In conclusion, we estimated for Romania a high prevalence of AHT, a level of awareness and treatment lower than in many European countries and a rate of treatment control at the inferior limit of the European average. Males, characterized by a higher prevalence of AHT, were also less aware and less treated than women.
Smart Microcapsules Encapsulating Reconfigurable Carbon Nanotube Cores
Authors: Choi Won San , Yang Hye Min , Koo Hye Young , Lee Ha‐Jin , Lee Young Boo , Bae Tae Sung , Jeon Il Cheol
Published: February 2010

The encapsulation of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to form a reconfigurable conglomerate within iron oxide microcapsules is demonstrated. The individual CNTs conglomerate and form a core inside the capsule upon exposure to high temperature, while they scatter when subjected to mild sonication at low pH. The assembly/disassembly of CNTs within the capsule was reversible and could be repeated by alternate heating and sonication. Also, the fabrication protocol could be used for the generation of various multifunctional hollow structures. To test the feasibility of using the capsules in real applications, the capacity of the capsules as a heavy metal ion remover was explored. The resulting capsules showed an excellent ability to remove lead and chromium ions. In addition, desorption of the metal ions adsorbed on the CNTs could be induced by exposure to low pH. Thus, encapsulated CNTs might be a recyclable, environmentally friendly agent for the removal of heavy metal ions.
Colloidal‐Crystal‐Assisted Patterning of Crystalline Materials
Authors: Li Cheng , Qi Limin
Published: February 2010

Colloidal crystals have shown great potential as versatile templates for the fabrication of patterned micro‐ and nanostructures with complex architectures and novel properties. The patterning of functional crystalline materials in two and three dimensions is essential to the realization of their applications in many technologically important fields. This article highlights some recent progress in the fabrication of 2D and 3D patterned crystalline materials with the assistance of colloidal crystals. By combining a bioinspired synthetic strategy based on a transient amorphous phase with a colloidal‐crystal templating method, unique 3D ordered macroporous (3DOM) calcite single crystals can be created. Moreover, patterned arrays of regular ZnO nanopillars with controlled size, shape, and orientation can be fabricated via a facile wet chemical approach by using masks derived from monolayer colloidal crystals (MCC).
The effect on energy expenditure of walking on gradients or carrying burdens
Authors: Kramer Patricia Ann
Published: February 2010

The effectiveness of people walking while carrying burdens and/or on gradients has been of interest to anthropologists for some time. No empirical equation exists, however, to assess the energetic expenditure of individuals traveling downhill with burdens and whether or not all people increase their energetic expenditure over unburdened level travel when carrying relatively light burdens (<20% of body mass) remains unclear. To begin to rectify this lacunae, gait parameters, physiological variables, and the energetic expenditure of 11 adults were assessed as they walked with burdens of 5 and 10 kg on a level treadmill and while they walked unburdened on gradients ±8 and ±16%. These data were then compared to predictive equations and data available from the literature. Velocity and body mass were combined with gradient and burden mass, where appropriate, as independent covariates to create predictive equations, which explained >80% of the variation in energetic expenditure. These new equations are appropriate for predicting energetic expenditure in people carrying burdens of <20% of total body mass or walking up and downhill at gradients of <20%. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Improved network performance via antagonism: From synthetic rescues to multi‐drug combinations
Authors: Motter Adilson E.
Published: February 2010

Recent research shows that a faulty or sub‐optimally operating metabolic network can often be rescued by the targeted removal of enzyme‐coding genes – the exact opposite of what traditional gene therapy would suggest. Predictions go as far as to assert that certain gene knockouts can restore the growth of otherwise nonviable gene‐deficient cells. Many questions follow from this discovery: What are the underlying mechanisms? How generalizable is this effect? What are the potential applications? Here, I approach these questions from the perspective of compensatory perturbations on networks. Relations are drawn between such synthetic rescues and naturally occurring cascades of reaction inactivation, as well as their analogs in physical and other biological networks. I specially discuss how rescue interactions can lead to the rational design of antagonistic drug combinations that select against resistance and how they can illuminate medical research on cancer, antibiotics, and metabolic diseases.

 

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Mechanisms in dominant parkinsonism: The toxic triangle of LRRK2, α‐synuclein, and tau
Authors: Taymans Jean‐Marc , Cookson Mark R.
Published: February 2010

Parkinson's disease (PD) is generally sporadic but a number of genetic diseases have parkinsonism as a clinical feature. Two dominant genes, α‐synuclein (SNCA) and leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2), are important for understanding inherited and sporadic PD. SNCA is a major component of pathologic inclusions termed Lewy bodies found in PD. LRRK2 is found in a significant proportion of PD cases. These two proteins may be linked as most LRRK2 PD cases have SNCA‐positive Lewy bodies. Mutations in both proteins are associated with toxic effects in model systems although mechanisms are unclear. LRRK2 is an intracellular signaling protein possessing both GTPase and kinase activities that may contribute to pathogenicity. A third protein, tau, is implicated as a risk factor for PD. We discuss the potential relationship between these genes and suggest a model for PD pathogenesis where LRRK2 is upstream of pathogenic effects through SNCA, tau, or both proteins.
Versatile Stamps in Microcontact Printing: Transferring Inks by Molecular Recognition and from Ink Reservoirs
Authors: Xu Huaping , Huskens Jurriaan
Published: February 2010

Microcontact printing is a heavily used surface modification method in materials and life science applications. This concept article focuses on the development of versatile stamps for microcontact printing that can be used to bind and release inks through molecular recognition or through an ink reservoir, the latter being used for the transfer of heavy inks, such as biomolecules and particles. Conceptually, such stamp properties can be introduced at the stamp surface or by changing the bulk stamp material; both lines of research will be reviewed here. Examples include supramolecular stamps with affinity properties, polymer‐layer‐grafted PDMS stamps, and porous multilayer‐grafted PDMS stamps for the first case, and hydrogel stamps and porous stamps made by phase‐separation micromolding for the second. Potential directions for future advancement of this field are also discussed.
Bimetallic Au–Ni Nanoparticles Embedded in SiO2 Nanospheres: Synergetic Catalysis in Hydrolytic Dehydrogenation of Ammonia Borane
Authors: Jiang Hai‐Long , Umegaki Tetsuo , Akita Tomoki , Zhang Xin‐Bo , Haruta Masatake , Xu Qiang
Published: February 2010

Gold–nickel nanoparticles (NPs) of 3–4 nm diameter embedded in silica nanospheres of around 15 nm have been prepared by using [Au(en)2Cl3] and [Ni(NH3)6Cl2] as precursors in a NP‐5/cyclohexane reversed‐micelle system, and by in situ reduction in an aqueous solution of NaBH4/NH3BH3. Compared with monometallic Au@SiO2 and Ni@SiO2, the as‐synthesized Au–Ni@SiO2 catalyst shows higher catalytic activity and better durability in the hydrolysis of ammonia borane, generating a nearly stoichiometric amount of hydrogen. During the generation of H2, the synergy effect between gold and nickel is apparent: The nickel species stabilizes the gold NPs and the existence of gold helps to improve the catalytic activity and durability of the nickel NPs.
Kinetic and Equilibrium Studies of Chromium(III) Removal by Macroporous Ion Exchanger Amberlyst‐15 (H+)
Authors: Mustafa S. , Shah K. H. , Naeem A. , Waseem M. , Ahmad T. , Sarfraz S. , Irshad M.
Published: February 2010

Chromium(III) sorption on macroporous strong cation exchanger Amberlyst‐15 (H+) was studied as a function of time and temperature. The rate constant values for chromium(III) sorption were calculated both for film and particle diffusion processes. The temperature was found to have a positive effect on both the diffusional processes. From the rate constant values, the energy of activation was calculated using the well‐known Arrhenius equation. The high values of energy of activation confirmed the film diffusional nature of the process. Equilibrium data were explained with the help of Langmuir equation. Various thermodynamic parameters (ΔH⊖, ΔS⊖ and ΔG⊖) from chromium(III) exchange on the resin were calculated. The ΔG⊖ values were found to be negative while both the ΔH⊖ and ΔS⊖ were positive.
Novel Coumarin‐based Fluorescent Probe for Selective Detection of Bisulfite Anion in Water
Authors: Chen Kangyu , Guo Yuan , Lu Zhenhuan , Yang Bingqin , Shi Zhen
Published: February 2010

Coumarins and its analogues have been widely used as chromophore in design of fluorescent probe, while less coumarin‐based fluorescent probe was reported for detection of anion in water. In this article, coumarin‐based fluorescent probes with salicylaldehyde functionality as recognition unit have been developed for selective detection of bisulfite anions in water. Four novel fluorescent probes were synthesized from 4‐haloresorcinol in three steps. The chemoprobe exhibited selective response to bisulfite over other anions. Moreover, the detection mechanism was studied. Upon bisulfite added, the fluorescent intensity of the probes was enhanced highly due to the nucleophilic addition reaction of formyl group with bisulfite anion.
Determination of Diethylstilbestrol in Aquatic Products by High Performance Liquid Chromatography with Fluorescence Detection
Authors: Xu Yingjiang , Geng Jinpei , Zhang Xiuzhen , Zhang Shijuan , Tian Xiuhui , Liu Huihui
Published: February 2010

A sensitive method for the determination of diethylstilbestrol (DES) in aquatic products by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) using a fluorescence detector (FLD) was developed. By means of sulfonation in concentrated sulfuric acid and hydrolysis, DES was converted into a reaction product that can emit fluorescence and determined by HPLC. For the first time, HPLC with FLD was applied to the determination of DES and sensitivity comparable to that of LC‐MS gained. The limit of detection was 0.1 µg·kg−1, and the recoveries were above 86% with relative standard deviations less than 6.2%. The proposed method was successfully applied to the determination of DES in aquatic products.
Physical Properties of Water Near a Gold Surface: A Nanorheological Analysis
Authors: Soares David Mendez , Tenan Mário Alberto , Gomide Andreza Barbosa , Gomes Wyllerson Evaristo
Published: February 2010

Water at room temperature is not simply a medium for which uniform properties can always be assumed. Water close to solid hydrophobic or hydrophilic surfaces has elasticity, which is measured by monitoring the quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) resonant frequency and resistance. Small additions of salt are shown to modify this elasticity. Furthermore, near the hydrophobic QCM gold electrode, undersaturated aqueous NaCl solutions present a high concentration of ion pairs, which is confirmed by atomic force microscopy through force versus distance measurements.
Utilizing a novel root companding transform technique to reduce PAPR in OFDM systems
Authors: Chang Po‐Hao , Jeng Shiann‐Shiun , Chen Jia‐Ming
Published: February 2010

One major defect in orthogonal frequency division multiplexing systems is the high peak‐to‐average power ratio (PAPR) at the transmitter. The linear nonsymmetrical transform (LNST) technique, one of the companding transform (CT) techniques for PAPR reduction, offers excellent performance, but requires additional side information. In this paper, a new ‘root CT’ technique without additional side information is proposed, and it can reach a good trade‐off between the PAPR reduction and the bit error rate (BER). The theoretical analysis of the proposed root technique is also derived. The simulation results show that the proposed root CT technique can achieve more efficient PAPR reduction and better power spectrum density than those of the LNST technique. The BER of the proposed CT technique without additional side information is close to that of the LNST technique with additional side information when the AWGN or multipath fading channels are considered. Furthermore, the simulation results also demonstrate that the proposed technique offers better performance than that of the µ‐law technique over the AWGN and multipath fading channels. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diurnal patterns of blowing sand
Authors: Stout John E.
Published: February 2010

The diurnal pattern of blowing sand results from a complex process that involves an interaction between solar heating, thermal instability, atmospheric turbulence, wind strength, and surface threshold conditions. During the day, solar heating produces thermal instability, which enhances the convective mixing of high momentum winds from the upper levels of the atmosphere to the surface layer. The sun also dries the sand surface so that the critical threshold is as low as possible. Thus, in the afternoon, the combination of strong turbulent winds and a low surface threshold increases the likelihood that winds may intermittently exceed the critical threshold of the surface to produce bursts of blowing sand. Here an attempt has been made to explore this dynamic aeolian process using a new method for monitoring the diurnal pattern of blowing sand. This technique involves detecting blowing sand with a piezoelectric saltation sensor to determine the relative proportion of time that blowing sand is detected for a given ‘time of day’. Measurements taken over a seven‐month period on the high plains of the Llano Estacado of West Texas and eastern New Mexico suggest that sand movement tends to occur more frequently during daylight hours with a peak in aeolian activity occurring in the afternoon between 14:00 and 15:00 Local Standard Time (LST). Published in 2010 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tidal channel meander formation by depositional rather than erosional processes: examples from the prograding Skagit River Delta (Washington, USA)
Authors: Hood W. Gregory
Published: February 2010

Channel meander dynamics in fluvial systems and many tidal systems result from erosion of concave banks coupled with sediment deposition on convex bars. However, geographic information system (GIS) analysis of historical aerial photographs of the Skagit Delta marshes provides examples of an alternative meander forming process in a rapidly prograding river delta: deposition‐dominated tidal channel meander formation through a developmental sequence beginning with sandbar formation at the confluence of a blind tidal channel and delta distributary, proceeding to sandbar colonization and stabilization by marsh vegetation to form a marsh island opposite the blind tidal channel outlet, followed by narrowing of the gap between the island and mainland marsh, closure of one half of the gap to join the marsh island to the mainland, and formation of an approximately right‐angle blind tidal channel meander bend in the remaining half of the gap. Topographic signatures analogous to fluvial meander scroll bars accompany these planform changes. Parallel sequences of marsh ridges and swales indicate locations of historical distributary shoreline levees adjacent to filled former island/mainland gaps. Additionally, the location of marsh islands within delta distributaries is not random; islands are disproportionately associated with blind tidal channel/distributary confluences. Furthermore, blind tidal channel outlet width is positively correlated with the size of the marsh island that forms at the outlet, and the time until island fusion with mainland marsh. These observations suggest confluence hydrodynamics favor sandbar/marsh island development. The transition from confluence sandbar to tidal channel meander can take as little as 10 years, but more typically occurs over several decades. This depositional blind tidal channel meander formation process is part of a larger scale systemic depositional process of delta progradation that includes distributary elongation, gradient reduction, flow‐switching, shoaling, and narrowing. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A comparative study of high‐order variable‐property segregated algorithms for unsteady low Mach number flows
Authors: Knikker R.
Published: February 2010

In this paper, five different algorithms are presented for the simulation of low Mach flows with large temperature variations, based on second‐order central‐difference or fourth‐order compact spatial discretization and a pressure projection‐type method. A semi‐implicit three‐step Runge–Kutta/Crank–Nicolson or second‐order iterative scheme is used for time integration. The different algorithms solve the coupled set of governing scalar equations in a decoupled segregate manner. In the first algorithm, a temperature equation is solved and density is calculated from the equation of state, while the second algorithm advances the density using the differential form of the equation of state. The third algorithm solves the continuity equation and the fourth algorithm solves both the continuity and enthalpy equation in conservative form. An iterative decoupled algorithm is also proposed, which allows the computation of the fully coupled solution. All five algorithms solve the momentum equation in conservative form and use a constant‐ or variable‐coefficient Poisson equation for the pressure. The efficiency of the fourth‐order compact scheme and the performances of the decoupling algorithms are demonstrated in three flow problems with large temperature variations: non‐Boussinesq natural convection, channel flow instability, flame–vortex interaction. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
It's Never Too Early To Ask Questions
Authors: Hacker Jörg Hinrich
Published: February 2010

Synthetic biology is a new field, but the opportunities and risks need to enter public debate now
Mir-17-5P Promotes Migration of Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells Through the P38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase-Heat Shock Protein 27 Pathway
Authors: Yang Fu , Yin Yixuan , Wang Fang , Wang Yuqi , Zhang Ling , Tang Ying , Sun Shuhan
Published: February 2010

miR-17-5p is overexpressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but the specific regulatory mechanisms of miR-17-5p in HCC remain unknown. We investigated the molecular basis of miR-17-5p as an oncogene in human HCC cell lines. Our

in vivo

and

in vitro

data indicate that miR-17-5p up-regulates the migration and proliferation of HCC cells. Interestingly, proteomic and western blotting assays revealed that miR-17-5p significantly activates the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase MAPK pathway and increases the phosphorylation of heat shock protein 27 (HSP27). Our results also suggest that E2F1-dependent down-regulation of Wip1 regulates miR-17-5p-p38-HSP27 signaling. Furthermore, suppression of HSP27 expression by small interfering RNA or the p38 MAPK pathway-specific inhibitor SB203580 decreases the migration of HCC cells overexpressing miR-17-5p but does not reduce their proliferation. Finally, we show that miR-17-5p expression correlates well with HSP27 status in primary human HCC tissues with metastasis.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest that the p38 MAPK pathway plays a crucial role in miR-17-5p-induced phosphorylation of HSP27 and, as a consequence, phosphorylated HSP27 enhances the migration of HCC cells. Our data highlight an important role of miR-17-5p in the proliferation and migration of HCC cells and support the potential application of miR-17-5p in HCC therapy. (Hepatology 2010;)
Nonobese Population in A Developing Country Has A High Prevalence of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver and Significant Liver Disease
Authors: Das Kausik , Das Kshaunish , Mukherjee Partha S. , Ghosh Alip , Ghosh Sumantra , Mridha Asit R. , Dhibar Tapan , Bhattacharya Bhaskar , Bhattacharya Dilip , Manna Byomkesh , Dhali Gopal K. , Santra Amal , Chowdhury Abhijit
Published: February 2010

There is a paucity of community-based epidemiological data on nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) among nonaffluent populations in developing countries. Available studies are radiological and/or biochemical and lack histological assessment, limiting their strength. We conducted a prospective epidemiological study comprising a 1:3 subsample of all adult (>18 years) inhabitants of a rural administrative unit of West Bengal, India. Subjects positive for hepatitis B virus and/or hepatitis C virus infection and consuming any amount of alcohol were excluded. Diagnosis of NAFL was by dual radiological screening protocol consisting of ultrasonographic and computed tomographic examination of the liver. Transient elastographic examination and liver biopsy were performed in a subset to identify significant liver disease. The risk factors of having NAFL were analyzed. A total of 1,911 individuals were analyzed, 7% of whom were overweight and 11% of whom had abdominal obesity. The prevalence of NAFL, NAFL with elevated alanine aminotransferase, and cryptogenic cirrhosis was 8.7%, 2.3%, and 0.2%, respectively. Seventy-five percent of NAFL subjects had a body mass index (BMI) <25 kg/m2, and 54% were neither overweight nor had abdominal obesity. The subjects with the highest risk of having NAFL were those with a BMI >25 kg/m2 (odds ratio 4.3, 95% confidence interval 1.6-11.5). Abdominal obesity, dysglycemia (fasting plasma glucose >100 mg/dL or elevated homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance), and higher income were the other risk factors. Even having a normal BMI (18.5-24.9 kg/m2) was associated with a 2-fold increased risk of NAFL versus those with a BMI <18.5 kg/m2.

Conclusion:

There is a significant prevalence of NAFL and potentially significant liver disease, including cryptogenic cirrhosis, in this predominantly nonobese, nonaffluent population in a developing country. NAFL will be a major determinant of future liver disease burden in countries of the developing world. (Hepatology 2010)
Durability of Peginterferon Alfa-2B Treatment at 5 Years in Patients With Hepatitis B E Antigen–Positive Chronic Hepatitis B
Authors: Wong Vincent Wai-Sun , Wong Grace Lai-Hung , Yan Kenneth Kar-Lung , Chim Angel Mei-Ling , Chan Hoi-Yun , Tse Chi-Hang , Choi Paul Cheung-Lung , Chan Anthony Wing-Hung , Sung Joseph Jao-Yiu , Chan Henry Lik-Yuen
Published: February 2010

Approximately 30%-40% of patients with hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-positive chronic hepatitis B treated with peginterferon and/or lamivudine achieve HBeAg seroconversion 6 months after the end of treatment. The durability and long-term effect of treatment are unknown. In this study, 85 HBeAg-positive patients who received peginterferon alfa-2b 1.5 μg/kg/week for 32 weeks and lamivudine 100 mg/day for 52 or 104 weeks were prospectively followed for 6.1 ± 1.7 years posttreatment. Twenty-five (29%) patients had virologic response (HBeAg seroconversion and HBV DNA <10,000 copies/mL) at 5 years. The rate of HBeAg seroconversion rose progressively from 37% at the end of treatment to 60% at 5 years. Twenty-seven (32%) and 11 (13%) patients had undetectable HBV DNA (<100 copies/mL) at the end of peginterferon treatment and at 5 years, respectively. Two (2.4%) patients achieved hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) seroclearance at 2.6 and 84 months posttreatment. Among virologic responders at the end of treatment, 82% and 57% and sustained HBeAg seroconversion and virologic response at 5 years. End-of-treatment serum quantitative HBsAg was significantly lower in patients with sustained virologic response at 5 years (median 1,431 IU/mL versus 2,689 IU/mL [

P

= 0.041]). At the last follow-up, the liver stiffness measurement by transient elastography was 5.8 ± 2.7 kPa. Only two patients had liver stiffness suggestive of advanced fibrosis. Week 16 HBV DNA, end-of-treatment HBeAg seroconversion, and undetectable HBV DNA were independent factors associated with virologic response at 5 years. The duration of concomitant lamivudine treatment had no impact on any long-term response.

Conclusion:

Peginterferon has high durability in HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B patients with end-of-treatment virologic response. (Hepatology 2010;)