bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deterrence of feeding and oviposition responses of adult Heliothis virescens by some compounds bitter‐tasting to humans
Authors: Ramaswamy S. B. , Cohen N. E. , Hanson F. E.
Published: April 2011

Some compounds that are bitter‐tasting to humans, both alkaloidal (quinine, quinidine, atropine, caffeine) and non‐alkaloidal (denatonium benzoate, sucrose octaacetate, naringin), deterred feeding and oviposition by Heliothis virescens (F.) in laboratory and field cage experiments. Preliminary electrophysiological studies of gustatory sensilla on the ovipositor of H. virescens provided evidence of 3 neurons, one of which is responsive to sucrose. Preliminary indications are that responses of this neuron may be inhibited by quinine and denatonium benzoate.
Effect of experience on in‐flight orientation to host‐associated cues in the generalist parasitoid Lysiphlebus testaceipes
Authors: Grasswitz T. R. , Paine T. D.
Published: April 2011

The effect of experience on the responsiveness of the aphidiid parasitoid Lysiphlebus testaceipes (Cresson) (Hymenoptera: Aphidiidae) to host‐associated cues was investigated using a wind‐tunnel bioassay. Naive females were able to discriminate between uninfested wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and wheat infested with Schizaphis graminum (Rondani) (Homoptera: Aphididae), but oviposition experience significantly increased the parasitoid's propensity to respond to aphid‐infested plants with upwind, targeted flight. The behavioural change associated with such experience was acquired rapidly (within five minutes) and persisted for at least 24 h. The parasitoid could be successfully conditioned to associate a novel odour with the presence of hosts, suggesting that the increase in response to aphid‐infested plants which occurs as a result of experience is probably due to associative learning of olfactory cues from the plant‐aphid complex.
Pheromone monitoring in the field using single sensillum recording
Authors: Van der Pers J. N. C. , Minks A. K.
Published: April 2011

In order to obtain direct information of stimulus dynamics perceived by a male moth under field conditions a portable device was constructed which enables continuous recording of responses from individual pheromone receptors. The device is suitable for tip recording by means of micro‐knives as well as for recording with tungsten electrodes making it applicable for a wide range of insects. A micro thermistor air velocity sensor is placed within 2 mm from the preparation to record the momentary air flow. The signal conditioning electronic circuits are battery powered, and the signals can be stored on a portable tape recorder. Field recordings were made from individual male antennal pheromone receptors of Aegeria myopaeformis and Adoxophyes orana. In all recordings the instantaneous firing frequency of the receptor cells was strongly modulated by the air velocity. Analysis of the data may provide information about the average pheromone concentration and the fine structure of pheromone plumes under various conditions.
Effects of agroecosystem diversification on natural enemies of soybean herbivores
Authors: Tonhasca Athayde
Published: April 2011

This study evaluated the effects of agroecosystem diversification through no‐tillage and strip intercropping on the abundance of natural enemies of soybean (Glycine max Merrill) herbivores. Twenty‐four plots (289 m2 each) were arranged in a randomized complete block design for a 3 by 2 factorial experiment. Factors were cropping systems (corn monoculture, soybean monoculture, and strip intercropping of corn and soybean) and tillage systems (no‐tillage and conventional tillage). Natural enemies were sampled during 1988, 1989 and 1990 by sweep net, suction net (D‐Vac), pitfall traps and quadrat samples. Analyses of variance indicated that of 15 taxa analyzed, most foliage‐inhabiting natural enemies were significantly more abundant in intercropping than in monoculture plots, whereas soil‐inhabiting natural enemies had higher numbers in no‐tillage plots than conventional tillage plots. Therefore, the results support the theory of greater abundance of natural enemies in more complex agroecosystems. Better environmental conditions in diversified treatments was the possible reason for these results. Corn in intercropping plots provided shade, reduced wind speed, alternate food, and possibly higher humidity and lower temperatures for soybean natural enemies. A similar effect was likely caused by the stubble and weeds in no‐tillage plots.
The genetic basis of host range in Heliothis virescens: larval survival and growth
Authors: Sheck A. L. , Gould F.
Published: April 2011

Larval feeding was assayed in a generalist caterpillar (Heliothis virescens (F.)), a specialist caterpillar (Heliothis subflexa (Gn.)), their F1 hybrids and a backcross with H.s. to gain a preliminary understanding of the genetic basis of host use in H.v. Plants used in these experiments were tobacco (Nicotiana tabaccum), cotton (Gossypium hirsutum), soybean (Glycine max) (hosts of H.v.) and ground cherry (Physalis pubescens) (host of H.s.).

A feeding study of H.v., H.s. and their reciprocal hybrids showed that, after the first eight days of feeding, H.v. had its highest survival and weight gain on soybean and had lowest survival and weight gain on its non‐host, Physalis. H.s. had its highest survival and weight gain on its host plant, Physalis, and performed very poorly on the three non‐host plants. The two F1 hybrids were SV0 (offspring of H.s. female and H.v. male) and VS0 (offspring of H.v. female and H.s. male). The hybrids did not differ from each other, indicating no sex linkage or maternal effects, except that VS0 had greater weight gain on tobacco than did SV0. The hybrids, unlike their parents, survived well on all four host plants and their weight gain was intermediate on all four host plants.

In a separate experiment the VS0 hybrid was mated to the specialist to produce the VS1 backcross. In contrast to the F1, the backcross had significantly lower survival than the generalist on soybean, cotton, tobacco and weight gain was lower on soybean, cotton and tobacco but higher on Physalis. Survival and weight gain on cotton and tobacco were inherited as partially dominant traits; on Physalis there was overdominance for survival and complete dominance for weight gain; on soybean both survival and weight gain were additive. Survival on cotton, Physalis, soybean and tobacco and weight gain on Physalis could not be completely explained by a model that included only dominance and additive effects. These traits may be influenced by epistatic and/or environmental effects.
The responses of Praon spp. parasitoids to aphid sex pheromone components in the field
Authors: Hardie Jim , Hick Alastair J. , Höller Carsten , Mann Judy , Merritt Lynda , Nottingham Stephen F. , Powell Wilf , Wadhams Lester J. , Witthinrich Jan , Wright Ann F.
Published: April 2011

In autumn 1991, aphid parasitoids of the genus Praon (Hymenoptera; Braconidae) were caught in water traps with lures containing synthetic aphid sex pheromone components at three sites in England and one in Germany. At two of the English sites and at the German site, the traps were placed in winter cereal fields whilst the third English site was in woodland. Three species were caught, P. volucre, P. dorsale and P. abjectum. Those caught in cereal fields were almost entirely P. volucre, whilst P. dorsale dominated at the woodland site. Of the known aphid sex pheromone components, the most effective lure was the (+)‐(4aS,7S,7aR)‐nepetalactone. Nepetalactone traps placed at the woodland site in spring and summer caught few Praon females, and attraction may be confined to the autumn, when sexual female aphids are present in the field. Male parasitoids did not respond to the aphid pheromones at any time, although they were caught in suction traps operated at the woodland site during the autumn. At the cereal sites height had a significant influence on the efficiency of the pheromone traps, those placed just above the crop canopy being most effective. There was no evidence that any other genus of parasitoid responded to aphid sex pheromones at these sites.
Body temperature and thermoregulation of Antheraea assama larvae
Authors: Bardoloi Sunayan , Hazarika Lakshmi K.
Published: April 2011

Activity patterns and body temperature (Tb) and its maintenance were investigated in the 5th instar larvae of Antheraea assama Westwood (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae). These larvae thermoregulate by finding and utilizing favourable microenvironments and by restricting their activities to suitable times of the day. Further convective cooling, facilitated by a raised posture also serves to ameliorate Tb. Regression analysis suggests that environmental temperature is the major determinant of Tb along with solar radiation (SR) and wind (W).
Induction and termination of diapause in Orius predatory bugs
Authors: van den Meiracker R. A. F.
Published: April 2011

Photoperiodic induction of reproductive diapause at 18 °C was investigated in four Orius [Heteroptera: Anthocoridae] species. Orius insidiosus (Say) displayed a long‐day response with a critical photoperiod between L11:D13 and L12:D12. Diapause in this species was terminated rapidly when the temperature and/or the daylength were increased. Orius majusculus (Reuter) also displayed a long‐day response. The critical photoperiod fell between L14:D10 and L16:D8. Diapause in this species was not terminated within 14 days when both temperature and daylength were increased. In Orius albidipennis (Reuter) no diapause could be induced at photoperiods varying from L8:D16 to L16:D8. In Orius tristicolor (White) a high proportion of diapause was found at all photoperiods tested.

The effect of temperature on photoperiodic induction of diapause was studied in O. insidiosus at L10:D14. Diapause occurred at 18 °C, 21 °C and 25 °C, but not at 30 °C. Again, diapause was terminated rapidly after transfer to 25 °C/L16:D8. Exposing only the nymphal instars 1–5 to short daylength was not enough to induce diapause in the whole population of O. majusculus. Orius predatory bugs are used as biocontrol agents against western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande) [Thysanoptera: Thripidael, in greenhouses. The consequences of photoperiodic induction of diapause for the success of early season releases of Orius are discussed.
Continuous rearing of the maize stem borer Busseola fusca on an artificial diet
Authors: Onyango F. O. , Ochieng‘‐Odero J. P. R.
Published: April 2011

Busseola fusca (Fuller) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a major pest of maize and sorghum in many countries of tropical Africa. Hitherto, research on this important pest has been hampered by the occurrence of a six‐month long diapause in the last larval stage and the lack of an artificial diet for rearing the insect in the laboratory. Incorporating 4 to 8‐week‐old sorghum powder in a nutritionally adequate diet and rearing larvae individually in vials at ambient laboratory conditions (25–30 °C, 50–80% r.h., and L12: D12) have made it possible to rear 15 successive non‐diapausing generations of B. fusca capable of producing between 35 to 40 healthy pupae/litre of diet and upto 70% pupation without loss of vigour or reproductive capacity. Five to six generations were completed per year and the overall mean developmental period (egg‐egg) was 68 days (egg 6, larval 45, pre‐pupal 1, pupal 14 and pre‐oviposition 2 days). Larval period lasted 70 days in the first generation compared to 32.3 days in the fifteenth generation. Average fecundity increased from 158.0 to 394.6 eggs per female with a concomitant increase of egg hatch from 44.8 to 79.6% in the first and fifteenth generation, respectively.
Toxicity and repellency of some biorational insecticides to Bemisia argentifolii on tomato plants
Authors: Liu Tong‐Xian , Stansly Philip A.
Published: April 2011

A mineral oil, an insecticidal soap, and a plant‐derived surfactant were compared with a broad‐spectrum pyrethroid for residual toxicity and repellency to silverleaf whitefly, Bemisia argentifolii Bellows & Perring (Homoptera: Aleyrodidae) on tomatoes (Lycopersicum esculentum Miller, cv. Lanai) under greenhouse and laboratory conditions. The materials tested were: Sunspray oil (a mineral oil), M‐Pede (an insecticidal soap), Nicotiana gossei extract (a sucrose ester surfactant), Garlic Barrier (repellency only), and the pyrethroid bifenthrin (Brigade 10WP), with water as a control. For toxicity studies, whiteflies were confined on leaves which had been dipped in solutions of 0.5 ×, 1 × and 2 × field rate concentrations. Insecticide residues were compared when the leaves were wet and dry. Adult mortalities were greatest with bifenthrin and Sunspray oil, followed by M‐Pede, N. gossei extract and water. Mortality from dry residue of lower rates of bifenthrin and Sunspray oil was greater than mortality from wet residues, whereas M‐Pede lost all activity upon drying. Dual and multiple choice tests for repellency were carried out in the greenhouse or laboratory by spraying plants or individual leaves to runoff with 1 × field concentrations. Bifenthrin and Sunspray oil repelled B. argentifolii adults for up to 7 and 5 days, respectively, followed by M‐Pede and extract of N. gossei, whereas Garlic Barrier was not significantly different from the water control in all tests. Numbers of whitefly eggs were significantly reduced on bifenthrin and Sunspray oil‐treated leaves, whereas egg numbers in other treatments were not different from water. Sunspray oil as a dip proved to be at least as effective as the synthetic pyrethroid for whitefly control. A multiple‐choice leaf‐wheel proved to be a useful device to quickly evaluate repellent effects of several different insecticides to whitefly.
Precedence of the first male sperm in successive matings in the Hymenoptera Diadromus pulchellus
Authors: Agoze Mona El , Poirié Marylène , Périquet Georges
Published: April 2011

In most insect species where double matings occur, sperm from the second male preferentially fertilize subsequent eggs. However, we demonstrate here that, as already shown for some other hymenopteran species, this is not the case in the ichneumonid wasp Diadromus pulchellus (Wesmeal): sperm from the first male usually father all the female progeny. This precedence of the first male sperm is also observed in double matings involving an haploid male and a diploid sterile male, whichever is the first mating male. We discuss the consequences of this phenomenon from an evolutionary point of view.
Flight initiation by Prostephanus truncatus in relation to time of day, temperature, relative humidity and starvation
Authors: Fadamiro Henry Y. , Wyatt Tristram D.
Published: April 2011

Studies were carried out in the laboratory on the influences of time of day, temperature, relative humidity and starvation on flight initiation by Prostephanus truncatus (Horn) (Coleoptera: Bostrichidae). Flight occurred throughout the 12 h photophase and at the beginning of the scotophase but peaked at 2–0 h before darkness. Temperature exerted a significant effect on flight. The frequency of flight take‐off increased with temperature over the range 20–30 °C but declined sharply at 35 °C. Flight activity increased with starvation up to a maximum at 2 days after which it began to decline.
MicroRNA‐155 targets the SKI gene in human melanoma cell lines
Authors: Levati Lauretta , Pagani Elena , Romani Sveva , Castiglia Daniele , Piccinni Eugenia , Covaciu Claudia , Caporaso Patrizia , Bondanza Sergio , Antonetti Francesca R. , Bonmassar Enzo , Martelli Fabio , Alvino Ester , D’Atri Stefania
Published: April 2011

The SKI protein is a transcriptional coregulator over‐expressed in melanoma. Experimentally induced down‐regulation of SKI inhibits melanoma cell growth in vitro and in vivo. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) negatively modulate gene expression and have been implicated in oncogenesis. We previously showed that microRNA‐155 (miR‐155) is down‐regulated in melanoma cells as compared with normal melanocytes and that its ectopic expression impairs proliferation and induces apoptosis. Here, we investigated whether miR‐155 could mediate melanoma growth inhibition via SKI gene silencing. Luciferase reporter assays demonstrated that miR‐155 interacted with SKI 3′UTR and impaired gene expression. Transfection of melanoma cells with miR‐155 reduced SKI levels, while inhibition of endogenous miR‐155 up‐regulated SKI expression. Specifically designed small interfering RNAs reduced SKI expression and inhibited proliferation. However, melanoma cells over‐expressing a 3′UTR‐deleted SKI were still susceptible to the antiproliferative effect of miR‐155. Our data demonstrate for the first time that SKI is a target of miR‐155 in melanoma. However, impairment of SKI expression is not the leading mechanism involved in the growth‐suppressive effect of miR‐155 found in this malignancy.
SECURE COMMUNICATION BASED ON A HYBRID OF CHAOS AND ICA ENCRYPTIONS
Authors: CHEN WEI CHING , YUAN JOHN
Published: April 2011

Chaos and independent component analysis (ICA) encryptions are two novel schemes for secure communications. In this paper, a new scheme combining chaos and ICA techniques is proposed to enhance the security level during communication. In this scheme, a master chaotic system is embedded at the transmitter. The message signal is mixed with a chaotic signal and a Gaussian white noise into two mixed signals and then transmitted to the receiver through the public channels. A signal for synchronization is transmitted through another public channel to the receiver where a slave chaotic system is embedded to reproduce the chaotic signal. A modified ICA is used to recover the message signal at the receiver. Since only two of the three transmitted signals contain the information of message signal, a hacker would not be able to retrieve the message signal by using ICA even though all the transmitted signals are intercepted. Spectrum analyses are used to prove that the message signal can be securely hidden under this scheme.
A NEW METHOD FOR GENERATING A NEW INTEGRABLE SYSTEM
Authors: GUO XIURONG
Published: April 2011

With the help of the known Lie algebra given by Zhang,2a new higher-dimensional Lie algebra G is obtained by generalizing the commutative operations in the Lie algebras. Using a subalgebra [Formula: see text] of a loop algebra [Formula: see text] which corresponds to the Lie algebra G, a new heat-conduction equation hierarchy with some constrained conditions, is obtained. We again consider the constrained conditions as new evolution equations, the new scheme for generating soliton equations are given. Then we use the loop algebra [Formula: see text] to further establish an isospectral problem and derive an extending integrable model of the above heat-condition hierarchy, we also obtain a corresponding extending constrained condition which is thought as a type of evolution equations.
EFFECT OF LASER ON THE NONPARABOLICITY OF THE CONDUCTION BAND AND HYDROGENIC IMPURITY STATES IN A SEMICONDUCTOR QUANTUM WELL
Authors: REUBEN A. MERWYN JASPER D. , NITHIANANTHI P. , MOHAN C. RAJA , JAYAKUMAR K.
Published: April 2011

The effect of laser on the nonparabolicity of the conduction band for hydrogenic donor states like 1s, 2s, 2p± and 2p0 in a GaAs/Al x Ga 1-x As quantum well have been computed in a finite barrier model using variational principle in the effective mass approximation. The limiting values of the ground state and few excited state binding energies for a laser dressed-donor have been obtained. The results are presented and discussed.
THERMODYNAMICS OF A SUPERCONDUCTOR WITH 2-PARTICLE AND 4-PARTICLE ATTRACTION IN THE STRONG COUPLING LIMIT
Authors: MAĆKOWIAK JAN , BARAN DOMINIK
Published: April 2011

The thermodynamics of a superconductor, with pairing and quartet-binding BCS-type attractions V BCS and V, is investigated in the strong-coupling limit. The coupled equations for the gap parameters ΔG, Δg, corresponding to both potentials, are solved and the thermodynamic functions are computed for varying coupling constant g0 of the quartet attraction V. Some untypical thermal properties of tin, mercury, and high-Tc superconductors, which have not been fully explained by theory, are found to agree with this strong-coupling thermodynamics. Sufficiently strong V eliminates the BCS pairing potential and the conducting fermions behave as if they were interacting only via V. The structure of the condensate at T = 0 is studied and shown to consist almost exclusively of Cooper pairs if g0 ≤ 0.2G0 (G0 denoting the coupling constant of V BCS ), whereas if g0 > 2G0, all fermions merge into quartets.
Highlights from ACM SIGSPATIAL GIS 2010
Authors: El Abbadi Amr , Mokbel Mohamed F.
Published: April 2011

ACM GIS 2010 was the eighteenth event of a series of conferences, symposia, and workshops that began in 1993 with the mission of bringing together researchers, developers, users, and practitioners carrying out research and development of novel systems based on geo-spatial data and knowledge. The conference fosters interdisciplinary discussions and research in all aspects of Geographic Information Systems and Science (GIS) and provides a forum for original research contributions covering all conceptual, design, and implementation aspects of GIS ranging from applications, user interface considerations, and visualization to storage management, indexing, and algorithmic issues.
HPDGIS 2010 workshop report
Authors: Wang Shaowen , Wilkins-Diehr Nancy , Padmanabhan Anand , Shi Xuan , Vatsavai Ranga Raju , Zhang Jianting
Published: April 2011

The increasingly computational and data intensive nature of geospatial problem solving and the requirement to provide collaborative support across numerous fields, necessitates the use of high performance computing and distributed systems which have emerged as prominent elements in the landscape of computing and information technologies. The inaugural ACM SIGSPATIAL HPDGIS workshop was hence launched to bring together researchers and practitioners to map out the fundamental research areas centered on synergistic advances in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial analysis, high performance computing, and distributed systems.
Impacts of Sewage Sludge in Tropical Soil: A Case Study in Brazil
Authors: Bettiol Wagner , Ghini Raquel
Published: April 2011

A long-term assay was conducted to evaluate the environmental impacts of agriculture use of sewage sludge on a tropical soil. This paper describes and discusses the results obtained by applying a interdisciplinary approach and the valuable insights gained. Experimental site was located in Jaguariúna (SP, Brazil). Multiyear comparison was developed with the application of sewage sludge obtained from wastewater treatment plants at Barueri (domestic and industrial sewage) and Franca (domestic sewage), São Paulo State. The treatments were control, mineral fertilization, and sewage sludge applied based on the N concentration that provides the same amount of N as in the mineral fertilization recommended for corn crop, two, four, and eight times the N recommended dosage. The results obtained indicated that the amount of sewage sludge used in agricultural areas must be calculated based on the N crop needs, and annual application must be avoided to prevent overapplications.
A Review of Fire Interactions and Mass Fires
Authors: Finney Mark A. , McAllister Sara S.
Published: April 2011

The character of a wildland fire can change dramatically in the presence of another nearby fire. Understanding and predicting the changes in behavior due to fire‐fire interactions cannot only be life‐saving to those on the ground, but also be used to better control a prescribed fire to meet objectives. In discontinuous fuel types, such interactions may elicit fire spread where none otherwise existed. Fire‐fire interactions occur naturally when spot fires start ahead of the main fire and when separate fire events converge in one location. Interactions can be created intentionally during prescribed fires by using spatial ignition patterns. Mass fires are among the most extreme examples of interactive behavior. This paper presents a review of the detailed effects of fire‐fire interaction in terms of merging or coalescence criteria, burning rates, flame dimensions, flame temperature, indraft velocity, pulsation, and convection column dynamics. Though relevant in many situations, these changes in fire behavior have yet to be included in any operational‐fire models or decision support systems.
Acral Lentiginous Melanoma: A Case Control Study and Guidelines Update
Authors: Kosmidis Christoforos , Efthimiadis Christoforos , Anthimidis Georgios , Grigoriou Marios , Vasiliadou Kalliopi , Ioannidou Georgia , Makedou Fotini , Baka Sofia
Published: April 2011

Background. Malignant melanoma incidence is increasing dramatically. We report herein a case of the rarest acral lentiginous type.Case Report. A 58-year-old man presented with a melanoma resembling lesion over the sole of his right foot, measuring 15–20 mm in diameter. An excisional biopsy with a narrow (2 mm) margin of surrounding skin was obtained. Histological findings were consistent with a diagnosis of acral lentiginous melanoma. Sentinel lymph node biopsy was also performed and micrometastases were not identified in frozen-section examination. According to the AJCC system, the tumor stage was IB (T2aN0M0). A wide local excision of the biopsy scar with a margin of 2 cm was performed. A split-thickness thick skin graft was used to reconstruct the excisional defect. During an 18-month followup, no local or distant recurrence has been observed. This paper aims to extract an updated rational approach to the management of this disease out of an enormous body of knowledge.
The Management of Classical Hodgkin's Lymphoma: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Richardson S. E. , McNamara C.
Published: April 2011

The management of classical Hodgkin's lymphoma (CHL) is a success story of modern multi-agent haemato-oncology. Prior to the middle of the twentieth century CHL was fatal in the majority of cases. Introduction of single agent radiotherapy (RT) demonstrated for the first time that these patients could be cured. Developments in chemotherapy including the mechlorethamine, vincristine, procarbazine and prednisolone (MOPP) and Adriamycin, bleomycin, vinblastine and dacarbazine (ABVD) regimens have resulted in cure rates of over 80%. Even in relapse, CHL patients can be salvaged with high dose chemotherapy and autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (ASCT). Challenges remain, however, in finding new strategies to manage the small number of patients who continue to relapse or progress. In addition, the young age of many Hodgkin's patients forces difficult decisions in balancing the benefit of early disease control against the survival disadvantage of late toxicity. In this article we aim to summarise past trials, define the current standard of care and appraise future developments in the management of CHL.
Retroaortic Left Renal Vein in a Case of Left Adrenal Adenoma: Radiological Findings
Authors: Dilli Alper , Ayaz Umit Yasar , Karabacak Osman Raif , Hekimoglu Baki
Published: April 2011

It is important to diagnose retroaortic left renal vein (RLRV) before a probable retroperitoneal surgery in a case of a suspicious adrenal mass. Our purpose is to present the ultrasonography (US), computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in a case of left adrenal adenoma with a coincidental RLRV and to discuss the clinical importance of their imaging. Abdominal and scrotal US, abdominal CT and MRI were performed for a 50-year-old male patient who was referred with continuous abdominal pain, intractable hypertension, high levels of blood cortisol and proteinuria. On US, a hypoechoic solid mass measuring4×3 cm in the left adrenal location and coincidental RLRV, besides multiple renal cysts, hepatomegaly, left-sided varicocele, and small-sized left testis were detected. CT and MRI also revealed the mass in the left adrenal gland which was consistent with adenoma. With CT and MRI, presence of RLRV was also verified.
Pharmacological Modulation of Dopamine Receptor D2-Mediated Transmission Alters the Metabolic Phenotype of Diet Induced Obese and Diet Resistant C57Bl6 Mice
Authors: de Leeuw van Weenen J. E. , Parlevliet E. T. , Schröder-van der Elst J. P. , van den Berg S. A. , Willems van Dijk K. , Romijn J. A. , Pijl H.
Published: April 2011

High fat feeding induces a variety of obese and lean phenotypes in inbred rodents. Compared to Diet Resistant (DR) rodents, Diet Induced Obese (DIO) rodents are insulin resistant and have a reduced dopamine receptor D2 (DRD2) mediated tone. We hypothesized that this differing dopaminergic tone contributes to the distinct metabolic profiles of these animals. C57Bl6 mice were classified as DIO or DR based on their weight gain during 10 weeks of high fat feeding. Subsequently DIO mice were treated with the DRD2 agonist bromocriptine and DR mice with the DRD2 antagonist haloperidol for 2 weeks. Compared to DR mice, the bodyweight of DIO mice was higher and their insulin sensitivity decreased. Haloperidol treatment reduced the voluntary activity and energy expenditure of DR mice and induced insulin resistance in these mice. Conversely, bromocriptine treatment tended to reduce bodyweight and voluntary activity, and reinforce insulin action in DIO mice. These results show that DRD2 activation partly redirects high fat diet induced metabolic anomalies in obesity-prone mice. Conversely, blocking DRD2 induces an adverse metabolic profile in mice that are inherently resistant to the deleterious effects of high fat food. This suggests that dopaminergic neurotransmission is involved in the control of metabolic phenotype.
Combination Radioimmunotherapy and Chemoimmunotherapy Involving Different or the Same Targets Improves Therapy of Human Pancreatic Carcinoma Xenograft Models
Authors: Sharkey Robert M. , Karacay Habibe , Govindan Serengulam V. , Goldenberg David M.
Published: April 2011

Chemoimmunotherapy with antibody–drug conjugates (ADC) is emerging as a promising therapy for solid tumors, whereas radioimmunotherapy (RAIT) of solid tumors has been relatively ineffective because of their resistance to radiation. We developed antibody–SN-38 conjugates that have significant antitumor activity in xenograft models at nontoxic doses. The goal of this study was to determine if an ADC could be combined with RAIT to enhance efficacy without a commensurate increase in host toxicity. Nude mice bearing human pancreatic cancer xenografts (Capan-1 and BxPC-3) were treated with a single dose of 90Y-labeled antimucin antibody (hPAM4; clivatuzumab tetraxetan) alone or in combination with an anti-Trop-2–SN-38 conjugate, typically administered twice weekly over 4 weeks. The combination, even at RAIT's maximum tolerated dose, controlled tumor progression and cured established xenografts significantly better than the individual treatments without appreciable toxicity. The ADC could be started 1 week after or up to 2 weeks before RAIT with similar enhanced responses, but delaying RAIT for 2 weeks after the ADC was less effective. A nonspecific ADC provided additional benefit over using free drug (irinotecan), but the response was enhanced with the specific ADC. When targeting Capan-1 with ample mucin, hPAM4 could be used as the RAIT and the ADC agent without losing effectiveness, but in BxPC-3 with less mucin, targeting of different antigens was preferred. These studies show the feasibility of combining ADC and RAIT for improved efficacy without increased toxicity. Mol Cancer Ther; 10(6); 1072–81. ©2011 AACR.
Linezolid-Resistant Enterococci in Greece: Epidemiological Characteristics
Authors: Spiliopoulou Iris , Damani Anthi , Chini Vassiliki , Zerva Loukia , Kolonitsiou Fevronia , Anastassiou Evangelos D. , Petinaki Efthimia
Published: April 2011

Background: 14 linezolid-resistant enterococci (6 Enterococcus faecium and 8 Enterococcus faecalis) collected during 2009 from patients hospitalized in intensive care units of different Greek hospitals were investigated. Methods: The mechanism of resistance to linezolid was determined by sequencing analysis of the domain V of 23S rDNA, while the clonal relatedness was defined by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis and multilocus sequence typing. Results: All linezolid-resistant enterococci carried the G2576T mutation. E. faecium belonged to the international epidemic clones ST16, ST17, ST203 and ST65, while all E. faecalis strains belonged to the ST28 clone. Conclusions: The spread of common linezolid-resistant enterococcal clones in intensive care units located in different areas of Greece emphasizes the importance of application of infection control measures to prevent the spread of such strains.
Intriguing Aspects of the Monsoon Low-Level Jet over Peninsular India Revealed by High-Resolution GPS Radiosonde Observations
Authors: Roja Raman M. , Venkat Ratnam M. , Rajeevan M. , Jagannadha Rao V. V. M. , Bhaskara Rao S. Vijaya
Published: April 2011

The strong cross-equatorial flow in the lower troposphere, widely known as the monsoon low-level jet (MLLJ), plays an important role in the Indian summer monsoon (ISM) rainfall during June–September. Using high-resolution GPS radiosonde observations over Gadanki (13.5°N, 79.2°E), some new aspects of MLLJ have been reported. In the present study it is found that, on average, the MLLJ exists at 710 hPa over southeastern peninsular India, rather than at 850 hPa as reported by earlier studies. It is observed that the ECMWF Re-Analysis (ERA)-Interim data provide better results on the spatial, temporal, and vertical variation of MLLJ. Further, the characteristics of the MLLJ during the active and break spells of ISM are also investigated; higher MLLJ core height and intensity are found during active phases of the Indian monsoon. This study emphasizes the use of high-resolution measurements for studying monsoon dynamics in detail.
Stochastic variation of transcript abundance in C57BL/6J mice
Authors: Vedell Peter T , Svenson Karen L , Churchill Gary A
Published: April 2011

Background

Transcripts can exhibit significant variation in tissue samples from inbred laboratory mice. We have designed and carried out a microarray experiment to examine transcript variation across samples from adipose, heart, kidney, and liver tissues of C57BL/6J mice and to partition variation into within-mouse and between-mouse components. Within-mouse variance captures variation due to heterogeneity of gene expression within tissues, RNA-extraction, and array processing. Between-mouse variance reflects differences in transcript abundance between genetically identical mice.

Results

The nature and extent of transcript variation differs across tissues. Adipose has the largest total variance and the largest within-mouse variance. Liver has the smallest total variance, but it has the most between-mouse variance. Genes with high variability can be classified into groups with correlated patterns of expression that are enriched for specific biological functions. Variation between mice is associated with circadian rhythm, growth hormone signaling, immune response, androgen regulation, lipid metabolism, and the extracellular matrix. Genes showing correlated patterns of within-mouse variation are also associated with biological functions that largely reflect heterogeneity of cell types within tissues.

Conclusions

Genetically identical mice can experience different individual outcomes for medically important traits. Variation in gene expression observed between genetically identical mice can identify functional classes of genes that are likely to vary in the absence of experimental perturbations, can inform experimental design decisions, and provides a baseline for the interpretation of gene expression data in interventional studies. The extent of transcript variation among genetically identical mice underscores the importance of stochastic and micro-environmental factors and their phenotypic consequences.
A high-resolution linkage map for comparative genome analysis and QTL fine mapping in Asian seabass, Lates calcarifer
Authors: Wang Chun Ming , Bai Zhi Yi , He Xiao Ping , Lin Grace , Xia Jun Hong , Sun Fei , Lo Loong Chueng , Feng Felicia , Zhu Ze Yuan , Yue Gen Hua
Published: April 2011

Background

High density linkage maps are essential for comparative analysis of synteny, fine mapping of quantitative trait loci (QTL), searching for candidate genes and facilitating genome sequence assembly. However, in most foodfish species, marker density is still low. We previously reported a first generation linkage map with 240 DNA markers and its application to preliminarily map QTL for growth traits in Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer). Here, we report a high-resolution linkage map with 790 microsatellites and SNPs, comparative analysis of synteny, fine-mapping of QTL and the identification of potential candidate genes for growth traits.

Results

A second generation linkage map of Asian seabass was developed with 790 microsatellite and SNP markers. The map spanned a genetic length of 2411.5 cM, with an average intermarker distance of 3.4 cM or 1.1 Mb. This high density map allowed for comparison of the map withTetraodon nigroviridisgenome, which revealed 16 synteny regions between the two species. Moreover, by employing this map we refined QTL to regions of 1.4 and 0.2 cM (or 400 and 50 kb) in linkage groups 2 and 3 in a population containing 380 progeny; potential candidate genes for growth traits in QTL regions were further identified using comparative genome analysis, whose effects on growth traits were investigated. Interestingly, a QTL cluster atLca371underlying growth traits of Asian seabass showed similarity to the cathepsin D gene of human, which is related to cancer and Alzheimer's disease.

Conclusions

We constructed a high resolution linkage map, carried out comparative mapping, refined the positions of QTL, identified candidate genes for growth traits and analyzed their effects on growth. Our study developed a framework that will be indispensable for further identification of genes and analysis of molecular variation within the refined QTL to enhance understanding of the molecular basis of growth and speed up genetic improvement of growth performance, and it also provides critical resource for future genome sequence assembly and comparative genomics studies on the evolution of fish genomes.
Simple flow cytometric detection of haemozoin containing leukocytes and erythrocytes for research on diagnosis, immunology and drug sensitivity testing
Authors: Frita Rosangela , Rebelo Maria , Pamplona Ana , Vigario Ana M , Mota Maria M , Grobusch Martin P , Hänscheid Thomas
Published: April 2011

Background

Malaria pigment (haemozoin, Hz) has been the focus of diverse research efforts. However, identification of Hz-containing leukocytes or parasitized erythrocytes is usually based on microscopy, with inherent limitations. Flow cytometric detection of depolarized Side-Scatter is more accurate and its adaptation to common bench top flow cytometers might allow several applications. These can range from the ex-vivo and in-vitro detection and functional analysis of Hz-containing leukocytes to the detection of parasitized Red-Blood-Cells (pRBCs) to assess antimalarial activity.

Methods

A standard benchtop flow cytometer was adapted to detect depolarized Side-Scatter. Synthetic and Plasmodium falciparum Hz were incubated with whole blood and PBMCs to detect Hz-containing leukocytes and CD16 expression on monocytes. C5BL/6 mice were infected with Plasmodium berghei ANKA or P. berghei NK65 and Hz-containing leukocytes were analysed using CD11b and Gr1 expression. Parasitized RBC from infected mice were identified using anti-Ter119 and SYBR green I and were analysed for depolarized Side Scatter. A highly depolarizing RBC population was monitored in an in-vitro culture incubated with chloroquine or quinine.

Results

A flow cytometer can be easily adapted to detect depolarized Side-Scatter and thus, intracellular Hz. The detection and counting of Hz containing leukocytes in fresh human or mouse blood, as well as in leukocytes from in-vitro experiments was rapid and easy. Analysis of CD14/CD16 and CD11b/Gr1 monocyte expression in human or mouse blood, in a mixed populations of Hz-containing and non-containing monocytes, appears to show distinct patterns in both types of cells. Hz-containing pRBC and different maturation stages could be detected in blood from infected mice. The analysis of a highly depolarizing population that contained mature pRBC allowed to assess the effect of chloroquine and quinine after only 2 and 4 hours, respectively.

Conclusions

A simple modification of a flow cytometer allows for rapid and reliable detection and quantification of Hz-containing leukocytes and the analysis of differential surface marker expression in the same sample of Hz-containing versus non-Hz-containing leukocytes. Importantly, it distinguishes different maturation stages of parasitized RBC and may be the basis of a rapid no-added-reagent drug sensitivity assay.
Shock-induced breaking of the nanowire with the dependence of crystallographic orientation and strain rate
Authors: Wang Fenying , Gao Yajun , Zhu Tiemin , Zhao Jianwei
Published: April 2011

The failure of the metallic nanowire has raised concerns due to its applied reliability in nanoelectromechanical system. In this article, the breaking failure is studied for the [100], [110], and [111] single-crystal copper nanowires at different strain rates. The statistical breaking position distributions of the nanowires have been investigated to give the effects of strain rate and crystallographic orientation on micro-atomic fluctuation in the symmetric stretching of the nanowires. When the strain rate is less than 0.26% ps-1, macro-breaking position distributions exhibit the anisotropy of micro-atomic fluctuation. However, when the strain rate is larger than 3.54% ps-1, the anisotropy is not obvious because of strong symmetric shocks.
Discriminating lymphomas and reactive lymphadenopathy in lymph node biopsies by gene expression profiling
Authors: Loi To Ha , Campain Anna , Bryant Adam , Molloy Tim J , Lutherborrow Mark , Turner Jennifer , Yang Yee Hwa Jean , Ma David DF
Published: April 2011

Background

Diagnostic accuracy of lymphoma, a heterogeneous cancer, is essential for patient management. Several ancillary tests including immunophenotyping, and sometimes cytogenetics and PCR are required to aid histological diagnosis. In this proof of principle study, gene expression microarray was evaluated as a single platform test in the differential diagnosis of common lymphoma subtypes and reactive lymphadenopathy (RL) in lymph node biopsies.

Methods

116 lymph node biopsies diagnosed as RL, classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL), diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) or follicular lymphoma (FL) were assayed by mRNA microarray. Three supervised classification strategies (global multi-class, local binary-class and global binary-class classifications) using diagonal linear discriminant analysis was performed on training sets of array data and the classification error rates calculated by leave one out cross-validation. The independent error rate was then evaluated by testing the identified gene classifiers on an independent (test) set of array data.

Results

The binary classifications provided prediction accuracies, between a subtype of interest and the remaining samples, of 88.5%, 82.8%, 82.8% and 80.0% for FL, cHL, DLBCL, and RL respectively. Identified gene classifiers include LIM domain only-2 (LMO2), Chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 22 (CCL22) and Cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor-3 (CDK3) specifically for FL, cHL and DLBCL subtypes respectively.

Conclusions

This study highlights the ability of gene expression profiling to distinguish lymphoma from reactive conditions and classify the major subtypes of lymphoma in a diagnostic setting. A cost-effective single platform "mini-chip" assay could, in principle, be developed to aid the quick diagnosis of lymph node biopsies with the potential to incorporate other pathological entities into such an assay.
Exotic diseases of dogs and cats at risk of importation to Ireland
Authors: Goodfellow Mark , Shaw Susan
Published: April 2011

Changes in legislation that facilitate movement of companion animals within the European Union will expose those animals to microbial and parasitic organisms currently exotic to Ireland. This paper reviewed information on the exotic diseases most likely to be introduced to Ireland by travelling dogs and cats: rabies, leishmaniosis, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis and dirofilariosis.
Genetic variation of TLR4 influences immunoendocrine stress response: an observational study in cardiac surgical patients
Authors: Koch Alexander , Hamann Lutz , Schott Matthias , Boehm Olaf , Grotemeyer Dirk , Kurt Muhammed , Schwenke Carsten , Schumann Ralf R , Bornstein Stefan R , Zacharowski Kai
Published: April 2011

Introduction

Systemic inflammation (for example, following surgery) involves Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling and leads to an endocrine stress response. This study aims to investigate a possible influence of TLR2 and TLR4 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on perioperative adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol regulation in serum of cardiac surgical patients. To investigate the link to systemic inflammation in this context, we additionally measured 10 different cytokines in the serum.

Methods

A total of 338 patients admitted for elective cardiac surgery were included in this prospective observational clinical cohort study. Genomic DNA of patients was screened for TLR2 and TLR4 SNPs. Serum concentrations of ACTH, cortisol, interferon (IFN)-γ, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) were determined before surgery, immediately post surgery and on the first postoperative day.

Results

Thirteen patients were identified as TLR2 SNP carriers, 51 as TLR4 SNP carriers and 274 patients as non-carriers. Basal levels of ACTH, cortisol and cytokines did not differ among groups. In all three groups a significant, transient perioperative rise of cortisol could be observed. However, only in the non-carrier group this was accompanied by a significant ACTH rise. TLR4 SNP carriers had significant lower ACTH levels compared to non-carriers (mean (95% confidence intervals)) non-carriers: 201.9 (187.7 to 216.1) pg/ml; TLR4 SNP carriers: 149.9 (118.4 to 181.5) pg/ml; TLR2 SNP carriers: 176.4 ((110.5 to 242.3) pg/ml). Compared to non-carriers, TLR4 SNP carriers showed significant lower serum IL-8, IL-10 and GM-CSF peaks (mean (95% confidence intervals)): IL-8: non-carriers: 42.6 (36.7 to 48.5) pg/ml, TLR4 SNP carriers: 23.7 (10.7 to 36.8) pg/ml; IL-10: non-carriers: 83.8 (70.3 to 97.4) pg/ml, TLR4 SNP carriers: 54.2 (24.1 to 84.2) pg/ml; GM-CSF: non-carriers: 33.0 (27.8 to 38.3) pg/ml, TLR4 SNP carriers: 20.2 (8.6 to 31.8) pg/ml). No significant changes over time or between the groups were found for the other cytokines.

Conclusions

Regulation of the immunoendocrine stress response during systemic inflammation is influenced by the presence of a TLR4 SNP. Cardiac surgical patients carrying this genotype showed decreased serum concentrations of ACTH, IL-8, IL-10 and GM-CSF. This finding might have impact on interpreting previous and designing future trials on diagnosing and modulating immunoendocrine dysregulation (for example, adrenal insufficiency) during systemic inflammation and sepsis.