bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antibodies to a Novel Leptospiral Protein, LruC, in the Eye Fluids and Sera of Horses with Leptospira-Associated Uveitis
Authors: Verma Ashutosh , Matsunaga James , Artiushin Sergey , Pinne Marija , Houwers Dirk J. , Haake David A. , Stevenson Brian , Timoney John F.
Published: January 2012

Screening of an expression library ofLeptospira interroganswith eye fluids from uveitic horses resulted in identification of a novel protein, LruC. LruC is located in the inner leaflet of the leptospiral outer membrane, and anlruCgene was detected in all tested pathogenicL. interrogansstrains. LruC-specific antibody levels were significantly higher in eye fluids and sera of uveitic horses than healthy horses. These findings suggest that LruC may play a role in equine leptospiral uveitis.
Monitoring of Peptide-Specific and Gamma Interferon-Productive T Cells in Patients with Active and Convalescent Tuberculosis Using an Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Spot Assay
Authors: Yang Fang-Fang , Tu Zhi-Quan , Fang Yi-Min , Li Yan , Peng Yi , Dong Tao , Wang Cong , Lin Shu-Xian , Zhan Neng-Yong , Ma Zhi-Ming , Feng Yong-Zhong , Tan Shou-Yong , Lai Xiao-Min
Published: January 2012

To establish a high-efficiency gamma interferon-specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent spot assay (IFN-γ ELISPOT assay) for detection of tuberculosis (TB), peptides (E6, E7, and C14) and peptide mixtures (E6 plus E7 and E6 plus E7 plus C14) were used to monitor peripheral blood (PBL) samples from patients with pulmonary TB (PTB), as well as control samples. The positive detection rates of the five IFN-γ ELISPOT assays were 78.38%, 74.86%, 55.83%, 90.43%, and 91.51%, respectively, and there were similar detection rates between the two combined peptide mixture IFN-γ ELISPOT assays and the tuberculin skin test (TST) (90.62% versus 95.59%). No significant difference was found between the detection rates of the two combined peptide mixture IFN-γ ELISPOT assays and the T-SPOT.TB assay for 86 patients with PTB (P> 0.05), but the median number of spot-forming cells/106cells (SFP value) for positive results was higher by the former than by the latter assay (P< 0.05). In contrast, the 29.93% positive detection rate and median SFP value of 482 by the two combined peptide mixture IFN-γ ELISPOT assays were significantly higher than the corresponding values of 14.29% and 152 by T-SPOT.TB assay for the same 147 community donors (P< 0.05). For nine PTB patients tracked, the SFP value of 7 for the two peptide mixture IFN-γ ELISPOT assays began to decrease from the second month after regular treatment. A relatively low, almost normal, SFP level was reached and maintained after the third or fourth month. Two in-house IFN-γ ELISPOT assays and the T-SPOT.TB assay could reduce the false-positive and false-negative detection rates of TST and sputum acid-fast staining. Therefore, these two combined peptide mixture IFN-γ ELISPOT assays have a potential advantage, beyond their greater specificity and sensitivity, for use in screening and detection of active TB infection (TBI) and latent TB infection (LTBI) in China.
Evaluation of Gamma Interferon (IFN-γ)-Induced Protein 10 Responses for Detection of Cattle Infected with Mycobacterium bovis: Comparisons to IFN-γ Responses
Authors: Waters W. R. , Thacker T. C. , Nonnecke B. J. , Palmer M. V. , Schiller I. , Oesch B. , Vordermeier H. M. , Silva E. , Estes D. M.
Published: January 2012

Gamma interferon (IFN-γ)-induced protein 10 (IP-10) has recently shown promise as a diagnostic biomarker ofMycobacterium tuberculosisinfection of humans. The aim of the current study was to compare IP-10 and IFN-γ responses uponMycobacterium bovisinfection in cattle by using archived samples from two aerosol inoculation studies. In the first study (104CFUM. bovisby aerosol,n= 7),M. bovispurified protein derivative (PPDb)-specific IP-10 and IFN-γ gene expression was detected as early as 29 days after challenge. PPDb-specific IP-10 and IFN-γ mRNA responses followed a similar pattern of expression over the course of this study and were highly correlated (r= 0.87). In the second study (105CFUM. bovisby aerosol,n= 5), IP-10 and IFN-γ (protein) responses to mycobacterial antigens were compared following challenge. IFN-γ responses to mycobacterial antigens were detected at 29 days after challenge and were sustained during the remainder of the study. IFN-γ responses to mycobacterial antigens exceeded corresponding responses in nonstimulated cultures. IP-10 responses to mycobacterial antigens exceeded preinfection responses at 7, 29, and 63 days after challenge. In contrast to IFN-γ responses, IP-10 responses to mycobacterial antigens generally did not exceed the respective responses in nonstimulated cultures. IP-10 responses to medium alone and to mycobacterial antigens followed a similar pattern of response. Correlations between IP-10 and IFN-γ (protein) responses were modest (r≈ 0.50 to 0.65). Taken together, these findings do not support the use of IP-10 protein as a biomarker for bovine tuberculosis using the current testing protocol and reagents; however, mRNA-based assays may be considered for further analysis.
Complete Genome Sequence of Strain 1860, a Crenarchaeon of the Genus Pyrobaculum Able To Grow with Various Electron Acceptors
Authors: Mardanov Andrey V. , Gumerov Vadim M. , Slobodkina Galina B. , Beletsky Alexey V. , Bonch-Osmolovskaya Elizaveta A. , Ravin Nikolai V. , Skryabin Konstantin G.
Published: January 2012

Strain 1860, a novel member of the genus
Pyrobaculum
, is a hyperthermophilic organotrophic crenarchaeon growing anaerobically with various electron acceptors. The complete genome sequence reveals genes for several membrane-bound oxidoreductases, the Embden-Meyerhof and Entner-Doudoroff pathways for glucose metabolism, the tricarboxylic acid cycle, the glyoxylate cycle, and the dicarboxylate/4-hydroxybutyrate cycle.
Draft Genome Sequence of Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobium Mesorhizobium amorphae, Isolated from Zinc-Lead Mine Tailings
Authors: Hao Xiuli , Lin Yanbing , Johnstone Laurel , Baltrus David A. , Miller Susan J. , Wei Gehong , Rensing Christopher
Published: January 2012

Here, we describe the draft genome sequence of
Mesorhizobium amorphae
strain CCNWGS0123, isolated from nodules of
Robinia pseudoacacia
growing on zinc-lead mine tailings. A large number of metal(loid) resistance genes, as well as genes reported to promote plant growth, were identified, presenting a great future potential for aiding phytoremediation in metal(loid)-contaminated soil.
Genome Sequence of Corynebacterium glutamicum ATCC 14067, Which Provides Insight into Amino Acid Biosynthesis in Coryneform Bacteria
Authors: Lv Yangyong , Liao Juanjun , Wu Zhanhong , Han Shuangyan , Lin Ying , Zheng Suiping
Published: January 2012

We report the genome sequence of
Corynebacterium glutamicum
ATCC 14067 (once named
Brevibacterium flavum
), which is useful for taxonomy research and further molecular breeding in amino acid production. Preliminary comparison with those of the reported coryneform strains revealed some notable differences that might be related to the difficulties in molecular manipulation.
Draft Genome Sequences of the Biocontrol Bacterium Mitsuaria sp. Strain H24L5A
Authors: Rong Xiaoqing , Gurel Fulya Baysal , Meulia Tea , McSpadden Gardener Brian B.
Published: January 2012

Mitsuaria
sp. strain H24L5A is a plant-associated bacterium with proven capacities to suppress plant pathogens. Here, we report the draft genome sequences and automatic annotation of H24L5A. Comparative genomic analysis indicates H24L5A's similarity to the
Leptothrix
and
Methylibium
species, as well as several genes potentially contributing to its biocontrol activities.
Time Course of Prion Seeding Activity in Cerebrospinal Fluid of Scrapie-Infected Hamsters after Intratongue and Intracerebral Inoculations
Authors: Orrù Christina D. , Hughson Andrew G. , Race Brent , Raymond Gregory J. , Caughey Byron
Published: January 2012

To assess prospects for early diagnosis of prion disease based on prion seeding activity in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), we measured the activity over time in scrapie-infected hamsters by
r
eal-
t
ime
qu
aking-
i
nduced
c
onversion (RT-QuIC). After intracerebral inoculation, activity appeared in CSF within 1 day and plateaued weeks before the onset of clinical signs. However, after intratongue inoculation, activity first appeared in CSF with the onset of clinical signs, well after higher-level accumulation of seeding activity in brain.
Comparative Study Using Phenotypic, Genotypic, and Proteomics Methods for Identification of Coagulase-Negative Staphylococci
Authors: Loonen Anne J. M. , Jansz Arjan R. , Bergland Jeandery N. B. , Valkenburg Marion , Wolffs Petra F. G. , van den Brule Adriaan J. C.
Published: January 2012

Five methods were compared to determine the most accurate method for identification of coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) (
n
= 142 strains). Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) showed the best results for rapid and accurate CoNS differentiation (99.3% of strains correctly identified). An alternative to this approach could be Vitek2 combined with partial
tuf
gene sequencing (100% of strains correctly identified when both methods are performed simultaneously).
Characterization of the RNA Silencing Suppression Activity of the Ebola Virus VP35 Protein in Plants and Mammalian Cells
Authors: Zhu Yali , Cherukuri Nil Celebi , Jackel Jamie N. , Wu Zetang , Crary Monica , Buckley Kenneth J. , Bisaro David M. , Parris Deborah S.
Published: January 2012

Ebola virus (EBOV) causes a lethal hemorrhagic fever for which there is no approved effective treatment or prevention strategy. EBOV VP35 is a virulence factor that blocks innate antiviral host responses, including the induction of and response to alpha/beta interferon. VP35 is also an RNA silencing suppressor (RSS). By inhibiting microRNA-directed silencing, mammalian virus RSSs have the capacity to alter the cellular environment to benefit replication. A reporter gene containing specific microRNA target sequences was used to demonstrate that prior expression of wild-type VP35 was able to block establishment of microRNA silencing in mammalian cells. In addition, wild-type VP35 C-terminal domain (CTD) protein fusions were shown to bind small interfering RNA (siRNA). Analysis of mutant proteins demonstrated that reporter activity in RSS assays did not correlate with their ability to antagonize double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)-activated protein kinase R (PKR) or bind siRNA. The results suggest that enhanced reporter activity in the presence of VP35 is a composite of nonspecific translational enhancement and silencing suppression. Moreover, most of the specific RSS activity in mammalian cells is RNA binding independent, consistent with VP35's proposed role in sequestering one or more silencing complex proteins. To examine RSS activity in a system without interferon, VP35 was tested in well-characterized plant silencing suppression assays. VP35 was shown to possess potent plant RSS activity, and the activities of mutant proteins correlated strongly, but not exclusively, with RNA binding ability. The results suggest the importance of VP35-protein interactions in blocking silencing in a system (mammalian) that cannot amplify dsRNA.
Beyond Anchoring: the Expanding Role of the Hendra Virus Fusion Protein Transmembrane Domain in Protein Folding, Stability, and Function
Authors: Smith Everett Clinton , Culler Megan R. , Hellman Lance M. , Fried Michael G. , Creamer Trevor P. , Dutch Rebecca Ellis
Published: January 2012

While work with viral fusion proteins has demonstrated that the transmembrane domain (TMD) can affect protein folding, stability, and membrane fusion promotion, the mechanism(s) remains poorly understood. TMDs could play a role in fusion promotion through direct TMD-TMD interactions, and we have recently shown that isolated TMDs from three paramyxovirus fusion (F) proteins interact as trimers using sedimentation equilibrium (SE) analysis (E. C. Smith, et al., submitted for publication). Immediately N-terminal to the TMD is heptad repeat B (HRB), which plays critical roles in fusion. Interestingly, addition of HRB decreased the stability of the trimeric TMD-TMD interactions. This result, combined with previous findings that HRB forms a trimeric coiled coil in the prefusion form of the whole protein though HRB peptides fail to stably associate in isolation, suggests that the trimeric TMD-TMD interactions work in concert with elements in the F ectodomain head to stabilize a weak HRB interaction. Thus, changes in TMD-TMD interactions could be important in regulating F triggering and refolding. Alanine insertions between the TMD and HRB demonstrated that spacing between these two regions is important for protein stability while not affecting TMD-TMD interactions. Additional mutagenesis of the C-terminal end of the TMD suggests that β-branched residues within the TMD play a role in membrane fusion, potentially through modulation of TMD-TMD interactions. Our results support a model whereby the C-terminal end of the Hendra virus F TMD is an important regulator of TMD-TMD interactions and show that these interactions help hold HRB in place prior to the triggering of membrane fusion.
Residues in the Hendra Virus Fusion Protein Transmembrane Domain Are Critical for Endocytic Recycling
Authors: Popa Andreea , Carter James R. , Smith Stacy E. , Hellman Lance , Fried Michael G. , Dutch Rebecca Ellis
Published: January 2012

Hendra virus is a highly pathogenic paramyxovirus classified as a biosafety level four agent. The fusion (F) protein of Hendra virus is critical for promoting viral entry and cell-to-cell fusion. To be fusogenically active, Hendra virus F must undergo endocytic recycling and cleavage by the endosomal/lysosomal protease cathepsin L, but the route of Hendra virus F following internalization and the recycling signals involved are poorly understood. We examined the intracellular distribution of Hendra virus F following endocytosis and showed that it is primarily present in Rab5- and Rab4-positive endosomal compartments, suggesting that cathepsin L cleavage occurs in early endosomes. Hendra virus F transmembrane domain (TMD) residues S490 and Y498 were found to be important for correct Hendra virus F recycling, with the hydroxyl group of S490 and the aromatic ring of Y498 important for this process. In addition, changes in association of isolated Hendra virus F TMDs correlated with alterations to Hendra virus F recycling, suggesting that appropriate TMD interactions play an important role in endocytic trafficking.
Wild-Type Measles Virus with the Hemagglutinin Protein of the Edmonston Vaccine Strain Retains Wild-Type Tropism in Macaques
Authors: Takeuchi Kaoru , Nagata Noriyo , Kato Sei-ich , Ami Yasushi , Suzaki Yuriko , Suzuki Tadaki , Sato Yuko , Tsunetsugu-Yokota Yasuko , Mori Kazuyasu , Van Nguyen Nguyen , Kimura Hideki , Nagata Kyosuke
Published: January 2012

A major difference between vaccine and wild-type strains of measles virus (MV)
in vitro
is the wider cell specificity of vaccine strains, resulting from the receptor usage of the hemagglutinin (H) protein. Wild-type H proteins recognize the signaling lymphocyte activation molecule (SLAM) (CD150), which is expressed on certain cells of the immune system, whereas vaccine H proteins recognize CD46, which is ubiquitously expressed on all nucleated human and monkey cells, in addition to SLAM. To examine the effect of the H protein on the tropism and attenuation of MV, we generated enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP)-expressing recombinant wild-type MV strains bearing the Edmonston vaccine H protein (MV-EdH) and compared them to EGFP-expressing wild-type MV strains.
In vitro
, MV-EdH replicated in SLAM
+
as well as CD46
+
cells, including primary cell cultures from cynomolgus monkey tissues, whereas the wild-type MV replicated only in SLAM
+
cells. However, in macaques, both wild-type MV and MV-EdH strains infected lymphoid and respiratory organs, and widespread infection of MV-EdH was not observed. Flow cytometric analysis indicated that SLAM
+
lymphocyte cells were infected preferentially with both strains. Interestingly, EGFP expression of MV-EdH in tissues and lymphocytes was significantly weaker than that of the wild-type MV. Taken together, these results indicate that the CD46-binding activity of the vaccine H protein is important for determining the cell specificity of MV
in vitro
but not the tropism
in vivo
. They also suggest that the vaccine H protein attenuates MV growth
in vivo
.
A Human Antibody Recognizing a Conserved Epitope of H5 Hemagglutinin Broadly Neutralizes Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N1 Viruses
Authors: Hu Hongxing , Voss Jarrod , Zhang Guoliang , Buchy Philippi , Zuo Teng , Wang Lulan , Wang Feng , Zhou Fan , Wang Guiqing , Tsai Cheguo , Calder Lesley , Gamblin Steve J. , Zhang Linqi , Deubel Vincent , Zhou Boping , Skehel John J. , Zhou Paul
Published: January 2012

Influenza A virus infection is a persistent threat to public health worldwide due to its ability to evade immune surveillance through rapid genetic drift and shift. Current vaccines against influenza A virus provide immunity to viral isolates that are similar to vaccine strains. High-affinity neutralizing antibodies against conserved epitopes could provide immunity to diverse influenza virus strains and protection against future pandemic viruses. In this study, by using a highly sensitive H5N1 pseudotype-based neutralization assay to screen human monoclonal antibodies produced by memory B cells from an H5N1-infected individual and molecular cloning techniques, we developed three fully human monoclonal antibodies. Among them, antibody 65C6 exhibited potent neutralization activity against all H5 clades and subclades except for subclade 7.2 and prophylactic and therapeutic efficacy against highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 viruses in mice. Studies on hemagglutinin (HA)-antibody complexes by electron microscopy and epitope mapping indicate that antibody 65C6 binds to a conformational epitope comprising amino acid residues at positions 118, 121, 161, 164, and 167 (according to mature H5 numbering) on the tip of the membrane-distal globular domain of HA. Thus, we conclude that antibody 65C6 recognizes a neutralization epitope in the globular head of HA that is conserved among almost all divergent H5N1 influenza stains.
Detection of Murine Leukemia Virus in the Epstein-Barr Virus-Positive Human B-Cell Line JY, Using a Computational RNA-Seq-Based Exogenous Agent Detection Pipeline, PARSES
Authors: Lin Zhen , Puetter Adriane , Coco Joseph , Xu Guorong , Strong Michael J. , Wang Xia , Fewell Claire , Baddoo Melody , Taylor Christopher , Flemington Erik K.
Published: January 2012

Many cell lines commonly used for biological studies have been found to harbor exogenous agents such as the human tumor viruses Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and human papillomavirus. Nevertheless, broad-based, unbiased approaches to globally assess the presence of ectopic organisms within cell model systems have not previously been available. We reasoned that high-throughput sequencing should provide unparalleled insights into the microbiomes of tissue culture cell systems. Here we have used our RNA-seq analysis pipeline, PARSES (Pipeline for Analysis of RNA-Seq Exogenous Sequences), to investigate the presence of ectopic organisms within two EBV-positive B-cell lines commonly used by EBV researchers. Sequencing data sets from both the Akata and JY B-cell lines were found to contain reads for EBV, and the JY data set was found to also contain reads from the murine leukemia virus (MuLV). Further investigation revealed that MuLV transcription in JY cells is highly active. We also identified a number of MuLV alternative splicing events, and we uncovered evidence of APOBEC3G (apolipoprotein B mRNA-editing enzyme, catalytic polypeptide-like 3G)-dependent DNA editing. Finally, reverse transcription-PCR analysis showed the presence of MuLV in three other human B-cell lines (DG75, Ramos, and P3HR1 Cl.13) commonly used by investigators in the Epstein-Barr virus field. We believe that a thorough examination of tissue culture microbiomes using RNA-seq/PARSES-like approaches is critical for the appropriate utilization of these systems in biological studies.
Genome Sequence of a Highly Prevalent Porcine Partetravirus in Mainland China
Authors: Li Bin , Ma Junjie , Xiao Shaobo , Wen Libin , Ni Yanxiu , Zhang Xuehan , Fang Liurong , He Kongwang
Published: January 2012

Partetravirus is a novel defined genus of animal parvoviruses. Here, we first report the genome sequence of porcine partetravirus strain JSNJ62, which is highly prevalent in mainland China. It will help in understanding the epidemiology and molecular characteristics of the porcine partetravirus.
Farmers' confidence in vaccinating badgers against bovine tuberculosis
Authors: Enticott G. , Maye D. , Ilbery B. , Fisher R. , Kirwan J.
Published: January 2012

This paper examines UK farmers' levels of confidence in vaccinating badgers against bovine tuberculosis (bTB) and their trust in the Government's ability to deal with bTB. In 2010, a badger vaccine based on the BCG vaccine was licensed following field trials and used as part of the UK Government's Badger Vaccination Deployment Project. A stratified random sample of cattle farmers in five different locations of England was surveyed using a telephone survey to elicit their views of badger vaccination. The survey provided a total of 341 responses with a response rate of 80 per cent. Results suggest that the farmers are cautious about badger vaccination, appearing to be neither overly confident nor unconfident in it. However, the farmers did not reveal high levels of trust in the Government to manage bTB policy or badger vaccination. There were no differences in the levels of confidence or trust between farms that were under bTB restrictions at the time of the survey and those that were not or between farms with historically high levels of bTB. Analysis of principal components suggests that 33 per cent of the farmers accepted badger vaccination, but that acceptance is dependent on the wider social and political environment.
Impact of a high‐phosphorus diet on the sonographic and CT appearance of kidneys in degus, and possible concurrence with dental problems
Authors: Gumpenberger M. , Jeklova E. , Skoric M. , Hauptman K. , Stehlik L. , Dengg S. , Jekl V.
Published: January 2012

The main aim of this study was to investigate the impact of pelleted diet of different mineral composition on the sonographic and CT appearance of kidneys in degus (Octodon degus). A total of 35 animals were randomly divided into five groups, fed diets containing different calcium and phosphorus contents (13.5 g/kg calcium and 6.3 g/kg phosphorus, or 9.1 g/kg calcium and 9.5 g/kg phosphorus) and given different amounts of exposure to UV light. Endoscopic examination of the oral cavity as well as renal ultrasonography and CT was performed four times at four‐month intervals throughout the study. After 14 months of feeding an experimental diet, all degus were euthanased and subsequently all kidneys were collected for histopathological examination. Animals fed a diet with high dietary phosphate and improper calcium to phosphorus ratio showed severe nephrocalcinosis. Ultrasonographic and CT kidney abnormalities presented as hyperechogenicity and hyperdensity (interpreted as nephrocalcinosis), respectively. The most striking changes were seen at the corticomedullary zone. Ultrasonography and CT correlated in all cases with histopathological findings. Dental disease developed quickly in groups fed diets with an improper calcium and phosphorus content, with obvious apical and coronal elongation of all the teeth. A possible influence of UV light access could not be proved in this study.
ANTI-HYPERON POLARIZATION IN pA AND Σ-A COLLISIONS AND INTRINSIC ANTIDIQUARK STATE IN INCIDENT BARYON
Authors: NODA HUJIO , TASHIRO TSUTOMU , NAKARIKI SHIN-ICHI
Published: January 2012

We discuss the relation between the polarization of inclusively produced (anti)hyperons and the incident baryon states in the framework of the constituent quark–diquark cascade model. We assume that there is an intrinsic diquark–antidiquark state in the incident baryon, in which the intrinsic diquark immediately fragments into a non-leading baryon and the antidiquark behaves as a valence constituent. It is also assumed that the valence (anti)diquark in the incident nucleon tends to combine selectively with a spin-down sea quark and, on the other hand, the spin-up valence quark in the projectile is chosen by a sea (anti)diquark in preference to the spin-down valence quark. It is found that the incident spin-1/2 baryon is mainly composed of a spin-0 valence diquark and a valence quark, and contains an intrinsic diquark–antidiquark state with a probability of about 7%.
Synthesis and structural characterization of a magnesium phthalocyanine(3–) anion
Authors: Wong Edwin W.Y. , Leznoff Daniel B.
Published: January 2012

The reduction of magnesium phthalocyanine (MgPc) with 2.2 equivalents of potassium graphite in 1,2-dimethoxyethane (DME) gives [K2(DME)4]PcMg(OH)(1) in 67% yield. Compound 1 was structurally characterized using single crystal X-ray crystallography and was found to be a monomeric, heterometallic complex consisting of a μ3-OH ligand that bridges a [MgIIPc3-]- anion to two potassium cations solvated by four DME molecules. An absorption spectrum of 1 confirms the Pc ligand is singly reduced and has a 3–charge. The solid-state structure of 1 does not indicate breaking of the aromaticity of the Pc ligand. Compound 1 is only the second Pc3- complex and the first reduced MgPc to be isolated and structurally characterized.
Picosecond and femtosecond optical nonlinearities of novel corroles
Authors: Hamad Syed , Tewari Surya P. , Giribabu L. , Rao S. Venugopal
Published: January 2012

We present our results from the experimental and modeling studies of picosecond (ps) and femtosecond (fs) nonlinearities of two novel corroles (a) tritolyl corrole (TTC) (b) triphenyl corrole (TPC) using the Z-scan technique. Both open and closed aperture Z-scan curves were recorded with ~2 ps/~40 fs laser pulses at a wavelength of 800 nm and nonlinear optical coefficients were extracted for both studies. Both the molecules possessed negative nonlinear refractive index (n2) as revealed by signature of the closed aperture data in both (ps and fs) time domains. Picosecond nonlinear absorption data of TPC obtained at a concentration of 5 × 10-4 M demonstrated complex behavior with switching from reverse saturable absorption (RSA) within saturable absorption (SA) at lower peak intensities to RSA at higher peak intensities. TTC data recorded at the similar concentration exhibited saturable absorption (SA) type of behavior at lower peak intensities to switching from RSA with in SA at higher peak intensities. At a concentration of 2.5 × 10-4 M, the ps open aperture data at higher peak intensities illustrated effective three-photon absorption (3PA) for both the molecules. We also report the picosecond spectral dependent Z-scan studies performed at 680 nm, 700 nm, and 740 nm. Nonlinear absorption and refraction of both the samples at these three wavelengths were studied in detail. Femtosecond nonlinear absorption data of TPC and TTC demonstrated the behavior of saturable absorption (SA) at a concentration of 1 × 10-3 M. Solvent contribution to the nonlinearity was also identified. We have also evaluated the sign and magnitude of third order nonlinearity. We discuss the nonlinear optical performance of these organic molecules.
Regulation of acid-base transporters by reactive oxygen species following mitochondrial fragmentation
Authors: Johnson David , Allman Erik , Nehrke Keith
Published: January 2012

Mitochondrial morphology is determined by the balance between the opposing processes of fission and fusion, each of which is regulated by a distinct set of proteins. Abnormalities in mitochondrial dynamics have been associated with a variety of diseases, including neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and dominant optic atrophy. Although the genetic determinants of fission and fusion are well recognized, less is known about the mechanism(s) whereby altered morphology contributes to the underlying pathophysiology of these disease states. Previous work from our laboratory identified a role for mitochondrial dynamics in intracellular pH homeostasis in both mammalian cell culture and in the genetic model organism Caenorhabditis elegans . Here we show that the acidification seen in mutant animals that have lost the ability to fuse their mitochondrial inner membrane occurs through a reactive oxygen species (ROS)-dependent mechanism and can be suppressed through the use of pharmacological antioxidants targeted specifically at the mitochondrial matrix. Physiological approaches examining the activity of endogenous mammalian acid-base transport proteins in rat liver Clone 9 cells support the idea that ROS signaling to sodium-proton exchangers contributes to acidification. Because maintaining pH homeostasis is essential for cell function and viability, the results of this work provide new insight into the pathophysiology associated with the loss of inner mitochondrial membrane fusion.
Induction of heme oxygenase-1 shifts the balance from proinjury to prosurvival in the placentas of pregnant rats with reduced uterine perfusion pressure
Authors: George Eric M. , Arany Istvan
Published: January 2012

Placental hypoxia/ischemia has been implicated as a central factor in the development of preeclampsia. One particularly useful animal model to study the impact of placental ischemia is the reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP) model. We have previously demonstrated that RUPP animals exhibit elevated placental oxidative stress, which plays an important role in the development of the associated maternal hypertension. Recently, we have demonstrated that cobalt protoporphyrin (CoPP)-mediated induction of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) attenuates RUPP-induced oxidative stress and consequent hypertension. However, signaling pathways that are involved in this process are virtually unknown. Here, we show that placentas from RUPP animals exhibit increased phosphorylation of JNK, STAT1, STAT3, and p52shc with a concomitant increase in caspase-3 activation and depletion of intracellular ATP. Treatment with CoPP decreased RUPP-induced phosphorylation of JNK and STAT1, while it increased phosphorylation of ERK and STAT3, leading to decreased caspase-3 activation and restoration of intracellular ATP content. Our data imply that RUPP induces oxidative stress and the consequent injurious state by increasing phosphorylation of mediators of injury (STAT1, JNK) and, to a lesser extent, survival (STAT3, p52shc) in placentas of pregnant rats. HO-1 induction shifts this balance to a prosurvival phenotype by augmenting phosphorylation of the prosurvival ERK and STAT3, while suppressing phosphorylation of JNK and STAT1. This attenuates the resulting injury, as indicated by caspase-3 activation and ATP depletion. These results demonstrate a novel therapeutic activity of HO-1 induction in placental cell survival during ischemia and support the HO-1 pathway as a promising therapeutic target for the management of preeclampsia.
Mice with targeted disruption of the acyl-CoA binding protein display attenuated urine concentrating ability and diminished renal aquaporin-3 abundance
Authors: Langaa Stine , Bloksgaard Maria , Bek Signe , Neess Ditte , Nørregaard Rikke , Hansen Pernille B. L. , Marcher Ann Britt , Frøkiær Jørgen , Mandrup Susanne , Jensen Boye L.
Published: January 2012

The acyl-CoA binding protein (ACBP) is a small intracellular protein that specifically binds and transports medium to long-chain acyl-CoA esters. Previous studies have shown that ACBP is ubiquitously expressed but found at particularly high levels in lipogenic cell types as well as in many epithelial cells. Here we show that ACBP is widely expressed in human and mouse kidney epithelium, with the highest expression in the proximal convoluted tubules. To elucidate the role of ACBP in the renal epithelium, mice with targeted disruption of the ACBP gene (ACBP−/−) were used to study water and NaCl balance as well as urine concentrating ability in metabolic cages. Food intake and urinary excretion of Na+and K+did not differ between ACBP−/−and+/+mice. Interestingly, however, water intake and diuresis were significantly higher at baseline in ACBP−/−mice compared with that of+/+mice. Subsequent to 20-h water deprivation, ACBP−/−mice exhibited increased diuresis, reduced urine osmolality, elevated hematocrit, and higher relative weight loss compared with+/+mice. There were no significant differences in plasma concentrations of renin, corticosterone, and aldosterone between mice of the two genotypes. After water deprivation, renal medullary interstitial fluid osmolality and concentrations of Na+, K+, and urea did not differ between genotypes and cAMP excretion was similar. Renal aquaporin-1 (AQP1), -2, and -4 protein abundances did not differ between water-deprived+/+and ACBP−/−mice; however, ACBP−/−mice displayed increased apical targeting of pS256-AQP2. AQP3 abundance was lower in ACBP−/−mice than in+/+control animals. Thus we conclude that ACBP is necessary for intact urine concentrating ability. Our data suggest that the deficiency in urine concentrating ability in the ACBP−/−may be caused by reduced AQP3, leading to impaired efflux over the basolateral membrane of the collecting duct.
Analysis and Finite Element Approximation of a Nonlinear Stationary Stokes Problem Arising in Glaciology
Authors: Jouvet Guillaume , Rappaz Jacques
Published: January 2012

The aim of this paper is to study a nonlinear stationary Stokes problem with mixed boundary conditions that describes the ice velocity and pressure fields of grounded glaciers under Glen's flow law. Using convex analysis arguments, we prove the existence and the uniqueness of a weak solution. A finite element method is applied with approximation spaces that satisfy the inf-sup condition, and a priori error estimates are established by using a quasinorm technique. Several algorithms (including Newton's method) are proposed to solve the
nonlinearity of the Stokes problem and are proved to be convergent. Our results are supported by numerical convergence studies.
Developmental Origins of Type 2 Diabetes in Aboriginal Youth in Canada: It Is More Than Diet and Exercise
Authors: Millar Kyle , Dean Heather J.
Published: January 2012

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is classically viewed as a disease of adults caused by poor nutrition, physical inactivity, and obesity. However, with increasing awareness of the heterogeneity of T2DM, new risk factors are being identified that add complexity. Some of these new risk factors have been identified in Canadian people with Aboriginal Oji-Cree heritage, a group that demonstrates one of the highest rates of T2DM in the world. This high prevalence may be due to the rapid change, over the past 50 years, away from their traditional way of life on the land. Another environmental change is the increased rate of pregnancies complicated by obesity, gestational diabetes, or T2DM, resulting in more children being exposed to an abnormal intrauterine environment. Furthermore, the Oji-Cree of central Canada possesses the unique HNF-1αG319S polymorphism associated with reduced insulin secretion. We propose that intrauterine exposure to maternal obesity and T2DM, associated with the HNF-1αG319S polymorphism, results in fetal programming that accelerates the progression of early-onset T2DM. This paper describes the evolution of T2DM in children with a focus on the Oji-Cree people over the past 25 years and the unique prenatal and postnatal gene-environment interaction causing early-onset T2DM.
Metal Toxicity at the Synapse: Presynaptic, Postsynaptic, and Long-Term Effects
Authors: Sadiq Sanah , Ghazala Zena , Chowdhury Arnab , Büsselberg Dietrich
Published: January 2012

Metal neurotoxicity is a global health concern. This paper summarizes the evidence for metal interactions with synaptic transmission and synaptic plasticity.Presynapticallymetal ions modulate neurotransmitter release through their interaction with synaptic vesicles, ion channels, and the metabolism of neurotransmitters (NT). Many metals (e.g., , , and ) also interact with intracellular signaling pathways.Postsynaptically, processes associated with the binding of NT to their receptors, activation of channels, and degradation of NT are altered by metals. , , , , , , , , and methylmercury modulate NMDA, AMPA/kainate, and/or GABA receptors activity. , , , and also impairsynaptic plasticityby targeting molecules such as CaM, PKC, and NOS as well as the transcription machinery involved in the maintenance of synaptic plasticity. The multiple effects of metals might occur simultaneously and are based on the specific metal species, metal concentrations, and the types of neurons involved.
Will Preoperative Atrophy and Fatty Degeneration of the Shoulder Muscles Improve after Rotator Cuff Repair in Patients with Massive Rotator Cuff Tears?
Authors: Yamaguchi Hiroshi , Suenaga Naoki , Oizumi Naomi , Hosokawa Yoshihiro , Kanaya Fuminori
Published: January 2012

Recently, retear rate after repair for massive cuff tear have been improved through devised suture techniques. However, reported retear rate is relevant to preoperative atrophy and fatty degeneration. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether preoperative atrophy and fatty degeneration of rotator cuff muscles improve by successful repair. Twenty-four patients with massive rotator cuff tear were evaluated on the recovery of atrophy and fatty degeneration of supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscle after surgery. Atrophy was classified by the occupation ratio and fatty degeneration by modified Goutallier's classification. Both were assessed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before and after the operation. When the cuff was well repaired, improvement of the atrophy and fatty degeneration were observed in a half and a one-fourth of the cases, respectively. In retear cases, however, atrophy and fatty degeneration became worse. Improvement of atrophy and fatty degeneration of the rotator cuff muscles may be expected in the cases with successful achievement of rotator cuff repair for large and massive tear.
Survey ofLegionellaSpecies Found in Thai Soil
Authors: Travis Tatiana C. , Brown Ellen W. , Peruski Leonard F. , Siludjai Duangkamon , Jorakate Possawat , Salika Prasert , Yang Genyan , Kozak Natalia A. , Kodani Maja , Warner Agnes K. , Lucas Claressa E. , Thurman Kathleen A. , Winchell Jonas M. , Thamthitiwat Somsak , Fields Barry S.
Published: January 2012

Members of the Gram-negative genusLegionellaare typically found in freshwater environments, with the exception ofL. longbeachae, which is present in composts and potting mixes. When contaminated aerosols are inhaled, legionellosis may result, typically as either the more serious pneumonia Legionnaires’ disease or the less severe flu-like illness Pontiac fever. It is presumed that all species of the genusLegionellaare capable of causing disease in humans. As a followup to a prior clinical study of legionellosis in rural Thailand, indigenous soil samples were collected proximal to cases’ homes and workplaces and tested for the presence of legionellae by culture. We obtained 115 isolates from 22/39 soil samples and used sequence-based methods to identify 12 known species ofLegionellarepresented by 87 isolates.
Classic Dissection of Thoracic Aorta Complicated by Ascending Aortic Intramural Hematoma: Promt Diagnosis and Successful Endovascular Repair
Authors: Rackauskas Gediminas , Mataciunas Mindaugas , Misonis Nerijus , Zakarkaite Diana , Gutauskas Marijus , Bilkis Valdas , Tamosiunas Algirdas Edvardas , Serpytis Pranas , Laucevicius Aleksandras
Published: January 2012

We reported a case of 68-year-old man, with a previous history of hypertension. Patient was admitted to our institution for evaluation of a severe, constant, tearing anterior chest pain radiated to the neck with suspicion of acute aortic dissection. A multidetector computed tomography scan of thorax and abdomen demonstrated a dissection starting from the middle part of aortic arch and extending downward to the descending aorta till the middle part of the thoracic aorta. The dissection was classified as Stanford A, De Bakey I. Surgical treatment of patient was started with bypass graft from the right common carotid artery to the left common carotid with subsequent revascularization of left subclavian artery. Lower parts of above-mentioned arteries were ligated. At the second stage an emergent prosthetic stent-graft was placed distally from the truncus brachiocephalicus up to the proximal part of the descending aorta. We reported a case report to present diagnostic and possible interventional treatment for patient with acute aortic type A dissection.
Regulation of Ribosomal RNA Production by RNA Polymerase I: Does Elongation Come First?
Authors: Albert Benjamin , Perez-Fernandez Jorge , Léger-Silvestre Isabelle , Gadal Olivier
Published: January 2012

Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) production represents the most active transcription in the cell. Synthesis of the large rRNA precursors (35–47S) can be achieved by up to 150 RNA polymerase I (Pol I) enzymes simultaneously transcribing each rRNA gene. In this paper, we present recent advances made in understanding the regulatory mechanisms that control elongation. Built-in Pol I elongation factors, such as Rpa34/Rpa49 in budding yeast and PAF53/CAST in humans, are instrumental to the extremely high rate of rRNA production per gene. rRNA elongation mechanisms are intrinsically linked to chromatin structure and to the higher-order organization of the rRNA genes (rDNA). Factors such as Hmo1 in yeast and UBF1 in humans are key players in rDNA chromatin structurein vivo. Finally, elongation factors known to regulate messengers RNA production by RNA polymerase II are also involved in rRNA production and work cooperatively with Rpa49in vivo.
Assessment of DNA Damage after Photodynamic Therapy Using a Metallophthalocyanine Photosensitizer
Authors: El-Hussein A. , Harith M. , Abrahamse H.
Published: January 2012

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a chemotherapeutic approach that utilizes a bifunctional reagent, a photosensitizer (PS) that localizes to the target tissue relative to the surrounding tissue and is toxic when exposed to laser light. PDT rapidly induces cell death, inflammatory and immune reactions, and damage of the microvasculature. DNA damage results from a variety of factors including UV-light, X-rays, ionizing radiation, toxins, chemicals, or reactive oxygen species. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of PDT as well as the influence of presensitization leading to the adaptive response (AR) on the integrity of DNA. Lung (A549), breast (MCF-7), and esophageal (SNO) cancer cells and Zn sulfophthalocyanine as PS with irradiation conditions of 10 J/cm2at 636 nm were used. Subcellular localization of PS, cell morphology, and viability after PDT and DNA damage were determined. A significant decrease in viability and marked DNA damage was observed in all 3 cancer cell types in response to PDT while the adaptive response was demonstrated to significantly decrease the effectiveness of the PDT.
Earthing: Health Implications of Reconnecting the Human Body to the Earth's Surface Electrons
Authors: Chevalier Gaétan , Sinatra Stephen T. , Oschman James L. , Sokal Karol , Sokal Pawel
Published: January 2012

Environmental medicine generally addresses environmental factors with a negative impact on human health. However, emerging scientific research has revealed a surprisingly positive and overlooked environmental factor on health: direct physical contact with the vast supply of electrons on the surface of the Earth. Modern lifestyle separates humans from such contact. The research suggests that this disconnect may be a major contributor to physiological dysfunction and unwellness. Reconnection with the Earth's electrons has been found to promote intriguing physiological changes and subjective reports of well-being. Earthing (or grounding) refers to the discovery of benefits—including better sleep and reduced pain—from walking barefoot outside or sitting, working, or sleeping indoors connected to conductive systems that transfer the Earth's electrons from the ground into the body. This paper reviews the earthing research and the potential of earthing as a simple and easily accessed global modality of significant clinical importance.
A Fast Algorithm of Moore‐Penrose Inverse for the Loewner‐Type Matrix
Authors: Tong QiuJuan , Liu SanYang , Lu Quan
Published: January 2012

In this paper, we present a fast algorithm of Moore‐Penrose inverse for m × n Loewner‐type matrix with full column rank by forming a special block matrix and studying its inverse. Its computation complexity is O(mn) + O(n2), but it is O(mn2) + O(n3) by using .
Perspectives of Pulmonologists on the 2009-2010 H1N1 Vaccination Effort
Authors: Clark Sarah J. , Cowan Anne E. , Wortley Pascale M.
Published: January 2012

Persons with high-risk conditions such as asthma were a target group for H1N1 vaccine recommendations. We conducted a mailed survey of a national sample of pulmonologists to understand their participation in the 2009-2010 H1N1 vaccine campaign. The response rate was 59%. The majority of pulmonologists strongly recommended H1N1 vaccine for children (73%) and adults aged 25–64 years (51%). Only 60% of respondents administered H1N1 vaccine in their practice compared to 87% who offered seasonal influenza vaccine. Other than vaccine supply, respondents who provided H1N1 vaccine reported few logistical problems. Two-thirds of respondents would be very likely to vaccinate during a future influenza pandemic; this rate was higher among those who provided H1N1 vaccine and/or seasonal flu vaccine. In total, the H1N1 vaccine-related experiences of pulmonologists seemed to be positive. However, additional efforts are needed to increase participation in future pandemic vaccination campaigns.
Cell Death Pathways as Therapeutic Targets in Rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Fulda Simone
Published: January 2012

Resistance of rhabdomyosarcoma to current therapies remains one of the key issues in pediatric oncology. Since the success of most cytotoxic therapies in the treatment of cancer, for example, chemotherapy, depends on intact signaling pathways that mediate programmed cell death (apoptosis), defects in apoptosis programs in cancer cells may result in resistance. Evasion of apoptosis in rhabdomyosarcoma may be caused by defects in the expression or function of critical mediators of apoptosis or in aberrant expression of antiapoptotic proteins. Therefore, the identification of the molecular mechanisms that confer primary or acquired resistance to apoptosis in rhabdomyosarcoma presents a critical step for the rational development of molecular targeted drugs. This approach will likely open novel perspectives for the treatment of rhabdomyosarcoma.
Separation ofcis- andtrans-Asarone fromAcorus tatarinowiiby Preparative Gas Chromatography
Authors: Zuo H. L. , Yang F. Q. , Zhang X. M. , Xia Z. N.
Published: January 2012

A preparative gas chromatography (pGC) method was developed for the separation of isomers (cis- andtrans-asarone) from essential oil ofAcorus tatarinowii. The oil was primarily fractionated by silica gel chromatography using different ratios of petroleum ether and ethyl acetate as gradient elution solvents. And then the fraction that contains mixture of the isomers was further separated by pGC. The compounds were separated on a stainless steel column packed with 10% OV-101 (3 m × 6 mm, i.d.), and then the effluent was split into two gas flows. One percent of the effluent passed to the flame ionization detector (FID) for detection and the remaining 99% was directed to the fraction collector. Two isomers were collected after 90 single injections (5 uL) with the yield of 178 mg and 82 mg, respectively. Furthermore, the structures of the obtained compounds were identified ascis- andtrans-asarone by1H- and13C-NMR spectra, respectively.