bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inoculated mammary carcinoma-associated fibroblasts: contribution to hormone independent tumor growth
Authors: Fabris Victoria T , Sahores Ana , Vanzulli Silvia I , Colombo Lucas , Molinolo Alfredo A , Lanari Claudia , Lamb Caroline A
Published: June 2010

Background

Increasing evidence has underscored the role of carcinoma associated fibroblasts (CAF) in tumor growth. However, there are controversial data regarding the persistence of inoculated CAF within the tumors. We have developed a model in which murine metastatic ductal mammary carcinomas expressing estrogen and progesterone receptors transit through different stages of hormone dependency. Hormone dependent (HD) tumors grow only in the presence of progestins, whereas hormone independent (HI) variants grow without hormone supply. We demonstrated previously that CAF from HI tumors (CAF-HI) express high levels of FGF-2 and that FGF-2 induced HD tumor growth in vivo. Our main goal was to investigate whether inoculated CAF-HI combined with purified epithelial (EPI) HD cells can induce HD tumor growth.

Methods

Purified EPI cells of HD and HI tumors were inoculated alone, or together with CAF-HI, into female BALB/c mice and tumor growth was evaluated. In another set of experiments, purified EPI-HI alone or combined with CAF-HI or CAF-HI-GFP were inoculated into BALB/c or BALB/c-GFP mice. We assessed whether inoculated CAF-HI persisted within the tumors by analyzing inoculated or host CAF in frozen sections of tumors growing in BALB/c or BALB/c-GFP mice. The same model was used to evaluate early stages of tumor development and animals were euthanized at 2, 7, 12 and 17 days after EPI-HI or EPI-HI+CAF-HI inoculation. In angiogenesis studies, tumor vessels were quantified 5 days after intradermal inoculation.

Results

We found that admixed CAF-HI failed to induce epithelial HD tumor growth, but instead, enhanced HI tumor growth (p < 0.001). Moreover, inoculated CAF-HI did not persist within the tumors. Immunofluorescence studies showed that inoculated CAF-HI disappeared after 13 days. We studied the mechanisms by which CAF-HI increased HI tumor growth, and found a significant increase in angiogenesis (p < 0.05) in the co-injected mice at early time points.

Conclusions

Inoculated CAF-HI do not persist within the tumor mass although they play a role during the first stages of tumor formation promoting angiogenesis. This angiogenic environment is unable to replace the hormone requirement of HD tumors that still need the hormone to recruit the stroma from the host.
Robustness of the healthcare utilization results from the Rotavirus Efficacy and Safety Trial (REST) evaluating the human-bovine (WC3) reassortant pentavalent rotavirus vaccine (RV5)
Authors: Itzler Robbin , Koch Gary , Matson David O , Gothefors Leif , Van Damme Pierre , DiNubile Mark J , Heaton Penny M
Published: June 2010

Background

The Rotavirus Efficacy and Safety Trial was a placebo-controlled Phase III study that evaluated the safety and efficacy of a three-dose pentavalent rotavirus vaccine (RV5) including its effect on healthcare utilization for rotavirus gastroenteritis (RVGE). The per-protocol (PP) analyses, which counted events occurring 14 days after dose 3 among infants without protocol violations, have already been published. This paper evaluates the consistency of the healthcare utilization results based on the modified intention to treat (MITT) analyses with the PP analyses. The MITT analyses include all infants receiving at least one dose of vaccine or placebo and follow-up begins after dose 1. The paper also explores the consistency of the results for different subgroups of the study population with different types of surveillance.

Methods

Data on healthcare utilization for acute gastroenteritis were collected via telephone interviews after administration of the first dose. Parents were either contacted every 6 weeks or every 2 weeks depending on the substudy in which they were enrolled. Those contacted every 2 weeks were also asked to complete symptom diaries. Poisson regression was used to evaluate the effect of RV5 on the rates of RVGE-associated healthcare encounters in all of the analyses.

Results

In the first 2 years after vaccination, RV5 reduced the combined rate of hospitalizations and emergency department (ED) visits 88.9% (95% CI: 84.9, 91.9) for all RVGE regardless of serotype in the MITT analysis compared with a 94.5% (95% CI: 91.2, 96.6) reduction based on the G1-G4 PP analysis. By type of surveillance, the rate reductions for the G1-G4 PP analysis were 91.0% (95% CI: 81.7, 95.5) and 95.9% (95% CI: 92.2, 97.8) among parents contacted every 2 weeks (number evaluable = 4,451) and every 6 weeks (number evaluable = 52,683) respectively.

Conclusions

Our analyses demonstrated that the effect of RV5 on reducing the rate of hospitalizations and ED visits based on the MITT analyses were generally consistent with the PP analyses. The rate of events for subgroups with different intensities of surveillance differed but the effect of RV5 on the relative rate reductions were consistent with the results that have already been published.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00090233
Compliance with herpes zoster vaccination in young and adult individuals in two regions of Italy
Authors: Parlato Antonino , Spica Vincenzo Romano , Ciccozzi Massimo , Farchi Francesca , Gallè Francesca , Di Onofrio Valeria , Franco Elisabetta , Liguori Giorgio
Published: June 2010

Background

The purpose of this work was to explore the knowledge and acceptance of Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV)-Herpes Zoster (HZ) vaccination in the general Italian population, where the HZ vaccine has not yet been distributed, using a prevalence study of subjects from two regions in Italy.

Methods

A group of 3,173 individuals were interviewed using a questionnaire. The youngest age group (≤ 20 year) was composed of students interviewed at university. The middle age group (21-40 years) and the older age group (≥ 41 years) were interviewed by general practitioners in their office.

Results

In both regions, the majority of subjects had been infected with varicella, and only 165 (5.2%) subjects reported receiving the VZV vaccination. Regarding HZ, 2,749 (86.6%) individuals stated that they knew of the virus and 2,233 (70%) were willing to be vaccinated against HZ. The majority of people willing to be vaccinated were in the middle and older age groups (36.6% and 44.7%, respectively).

Conclusion

Compliance versus vaccination results were satisfactory and probably, with the upcoming availability of the HZ vaccine in Italy, adults will be favourably disposed towards vaccination.
A novel anti-virulence gene revealed by proteomic analysis in Shigella flexneri 2a
Authors: Zhao Ge , Zhu Li , Feng Erling , Cao Xiaoyu , Shang Na , Liu Xiankai , Liao Xiang , Ying Tianyi , Wang Jie , Chen Huipeng , Wang Hengliang
Published: June 2010

Background

Shigella flexneri is a gram-negative, facultative pathogen that causes the majority of communicable bacterial dysenteries in developing countries. The virulence factors of S. flexneri have been shown to be produced at 37 degrees C but not at 30 degrees C. To discover potential, novel virulence-related proteins of S. flexneri, we performed differential in-gel electrophoresis (DIGE) analysis to measure changes in the expression profile that are induced by a temperature increase.

Results

The ArgT protein was dramatically down-regulated at 37 degrees C. In contrast, the ArgT from the non-pathogenic E. coli did not show this differential expression as in S. flexneri, which suggested that argT might be a potential anti-virulence gene. Competitive invasion assays in HeLa cells and in BALB/c mice with argT mutants were performed, and the results indicated that the over-expression of ArgTY225D would attenuate the virulence of S. flexneri. A comparative proteomic analysis was subsequently performed to investigate the effects of ArgT in S. flexneri at the molecular level. We show that HtrA is differentially expressed among different derivative strains.

Conclusion

Gene argT is a novel anti-virulence gene that may interfere with the virulence of S. flexneri via the transport of specific amino acids or by affecting the expression of the virulence factor, HtrA.
Small molecule screening in zebrafish: an in vivo approach to identifying new chemical tools and drug leads
Authors: Taylor Kerrie L , Grant Nicola J , Temperley Nicholas D , Patton E Elizabeth
Published: June 2010

In the past two decades, zebrafish genetic screens have identified a wealth of mutations that have been essential to the understanding of development and disease biology. More recently, chemical screens in zebrafish have identified small molecules that can modulate specific developmental and behavioural processes. Zebrafish are a unique vertebrate system in which to study chemical genetic systems, identify drug leads, and explore new applications for known drugs. Here, we discuss some of the advantages of using zebrafish in chemical biology, and describe some important and creative examples of small molecule screening, drug discovery and target identification.
Pearsonema (syn Capillaria) plica associated cystitis in a Fennoscandian arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus: a case report
Authors: Fernández-Aguilar Xavier , Mattsson Roland , Meijer Tomas , Osterman-Lind Eva , Gavier-Widén Dolores
Published: June 2010

The bladderwormPearsonema (syn Capillaria) plicaaffects domestic dogs and wild carnivores worldwide. A high prevalence in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) has been reported in many European countries.P. plicainhabits the lower urinary tract and is considered to be of low pathogenic significance in dogs mostly causing asymptomatic infections. However, a higher level of pathogenicity has been reported in foxes. A severe cystitis associated with numerous bladderworms was found in a captive arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus) originating from the endangered Fennoscandian arctic fox population. To our knowledge this is the first description ofP. plicainfection in an arctic fox.
Is there an association between PEPFAR funding and improvement in national health indicators in Africa? A retrospective study
Authors: Duber Herbert C , Coates Thomas J , Szekeras Greg , Kaji Amy H , Lewis Roger J
Published: June 2010

Background

The US President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) was reauthorized in June 2008 with a three‐fold increase in funds, and a broader, more explicit mandate to improve health in the low‐ and middle‐income countries that it funded. However, the ability of a disease‐specific, or vertical, programme to have a spill‐over effect and improve health outcomes has been questioned. In this study, we sought to examine associations between being designated as a PEPFAR focus country (and receiving increased PEPFAR funding) and non‐HIV‐specific health outcomes in the World Health Organization (WHO) Africa Region, the area most affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of publicly available health outcomes data published by the World Health Organization was performed for all countries in the WHO Africa Region. Fractional changes in health indicators between 2000 and 2006 were calculated, and PEPFAR focus and non‐focus countries were then compared.

Results

Overall, countries in the WHO Africa Region showed a small worsening in health outcomes status when all indicators were analyzed together and weighted equally. However, more health indicators improved than worsened over this six‐year period. A comparison of PEPFAR focus and non‐focus countries found no significant difference in the fractional change among 13 of 14 health indicators during the study period.

Conclusions

This study suggests that vertical programmes, even one that is the scale of PEPFAR, may have little or no impact on health outcomes not explicitly targeted.
AGAP2 regulates retrograde transport between early endosomes and the TGN
Authors: Shiba Yoko , Römer Winfried , Mardones Gonzalo A. , Burgos Patricia V. , Lamaze Christophe , Johannes Ludger
Published: June 2010

The retrograde transport route links early endosomes and the TGN. Several endogenous and exogenous cargo proteins use this pathway, one of which is the well-explored bacterial Shiga toxin. ADP-ribosylation factors (Arfs) are ~20 kDa GTP-binding proteins that are required for protein traffic at the level of the Golgi complex and early endosomes. In this study, we expressed mutants and protein fragments that bind to Arf-GTP to show that Arf1, but not Arf6 is required for transport of Shiga toxin from early endosomes to the TGN. We depleted six Arf1-specific ARF-GTPase-activating proteins and identified AGAP2 as a crucial regulator of retrograde transport for Shiga toxin, cholera toxin and the endogenous proteins TGN46 and mannose 6-phosphate receptor. In AGAP2-depleted cells, Shiga toxin accumulates in transferrin-receptor-positive early endosomes, suggesting that AGAP2 functions in the very early steps of retrograde sorting. A number of other intracellular trafficking pathways are not affected under these conditions. These results establish that Arf1 and AGAP2 have key trafficking functions at the interface between early endosomes and the TGN.
Some important aspects of thermal elastohydrodynamic lubrication
Authors: Kumar P , Anuradha P , Khonsari M M
Published: June 2010

Thermal effect in elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) has been the subject of study for the last four decades; however, some important aspects related to the physical behaviour of the lubricant in response to pressure, temperature, and shear rate remain largely neglected. This paper presents a brief review of the thermal EHL literature and sheds light on the importance of accurate characterization of the lubricant properties such as viscosity, density, rheology, and thermal conductivity. Full thermal EHL line contact simulations under steady-state and transient conditions show that using the ambient value of thermal expansivity, which has been the usual trend, may overestimate the central film thickness and introduce unrealistic features in transient EHL characteristics. Also, it is demonstrated that the most extensively used rheological equation – the sinh law – for characterizing the behaviour of shear-thinning lubricants underestimates the effect of viscous heating on EHL traction and film thickness.
Integrated kinematic and dynamic designs for variable-speed plate cam mechanisms
Authors: Yan H-S , Yeh C-C
Published: June 2010

This work presents a systematic approach to improve the kinematic and dynamic characteristics of plate cam mechanisms by using the Bezier curve as the input speed trajectory. The analytical models of kinematic and dynamic designs for a variable-speed plate cam mechanism are derived first. Speed trajectories of the cam are obtained by employing the Bezier curve. Then, an approach to integrate kinematic and dynamic designs for motion adaptation and to reduce the input torque at the same time based on multi-objective optimization is proposed. Two examples are provided for the design models to illustrate the design process. Finally, an experimental set-up is established, and the data of related characteristics is measured to verify the proposed design for variable-speed plate cam mechanisms.
Dynamics of a High-Speed Rail Vehicle Negotiating Curves at Unsteady Crosswind
Authors: Thomas D , Diedrichs B , Berg M , Stichel S
Published: June 2010

Rail vehicles in everyday operation experience large lateral influences from curves and track imperfections, yielding large suspension deflections and displacements of the carbody relative to the track. Aerodynamic loads caused by crosswind may deteriorate the conditions that can result in vehicle overturning. This study investigates the influence of crosswind on a high-speed rail vehicle negotiating a curve. A multi-body simulation model of a high-speed rail vehicle is subjected to unsteady aerodynamic loads. The vehicle response is studied for different gusts, and variations of some vehicle parameters are performed.
Materials for Heavy Haul Solid Wheels: New Experiences
Authors: Diener M , Ghidini A
Published: June 2010

Shelling and spalling are typical defects that represent a significant cost for heavy haul industry. In order to reduce the effects of shelling and spalling, LucchiniRS proposes new criteria for designing materials. Traditional and innovative materials used for heavy haul solid wheels are discussed, with particular attention to their metallurgical, mechanical, fatigue, and fracture toughness characteristics, according to these new criteria. Two new maps were presented for a better understanding of the material's behaviour in general and the rolling contact fatigue resistance in particular. The feedback from service collected until now, mainly in terms of total wheel life, is presented for standard and innovative steel grades for solid wheels in heavy haul.
Derailment Risk Due to Coupler Jack-Knifing under Longitudinal Buff Force
Authors: Chen D
Published: June 2010

Numerous rail accidents occurred in recent years in Canada due to coupler jack-knifing under longitudinal in-train buff force. Interaction between coupler jack-knifing and transformed lateral force under a buff force shows an unstable and positive feedback. Mathematical analysis and case studies demonstrate the mechanical and track conditions, and operational misconducts as well, that led to such jack-knifing and derailments. Defences against this risky lateral jack-knifing are evaluated. Association of American Railroads Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices (AAR MSRP) Chapter II requirements on coupler angles, transformed lateral force, and safety check condition of cars on a 175 m radius (10°) curve with 890 kN (200 kips) in-train pull force are discussed.
Implementation of Distributed Power and Friction Control to Minimize the Stress State and Maximize Velocity in Canadian Pacific's Heavy Haul/Heavy Grade Operations
Authors: Roney M , Bell S , Paradise S , Oldknow K , Igwemezie J
Published: June 2010

Canadian Pacific (CP) has taken a systems approach to minimizing the stress state and maximizing velocity in high-tonnage, heavy haul western Canada mainline operations. Recognizing the interaction between wheel-rail contact mechanics, train handling, and track geometry, CP has tested and implemented a number of advanced technologies that leverage current knowledge, systems, products, and equipment in each of these areas. This includes implementation of distributed locomotive power configurations based on sophisticated track/train interaction modelling, as well as the state-of-the-art top of rail and gauge face friction control. Together, these technologies have resulted in reductions in damaging lateral forces, rail wear, and fastening system fatigue, as well as increases in velocity and network capacity. This article presents the theory, implementation, and verification of distributed power, fine tuning curve superelevation and friction control technologies within the practical operating conditions of British Columbia.
Real-Time Train Rescheduling in Junction Areas
Authors: Chen L , Schmid F , Dasigi M , Ning B , Roberts C , Tang T
Published: June 2010

On main line railways, sections with junctions are usually heavily used because of the converging flows of trains from different origins. In the event of disturbances, even a minor delay to one train can cause long consequential delays for following trains, because of conflicts in the junction areas and because, normally, less recovery time and margin time are allocated where trains travel through bottleneck sections. Depending on the performance regime, train rescheduling can be an effective method to decrease the overall delay and any penalty payment. The authors of this article propose a decision support methodology for real-time train rescheduling in junction areas, based on a mathematical approach that optimizes an objective function. Their Junction Rescheduling Model (JRM) solves certain types of junction rescheduling problems by using an improved differential evolution algorithm for JRM that achieves near optimal solutions. They also present a statistical evaluation of the algorithm performance compared with the first-come-first-served strategy, based on the Monte-Carlo simulation methodology.
Development of a Model-Based Roentgen Stereophotogrammetric Analysis System to Measure Polyethylene Wear in Unicompartmental Arthroplasty
Authors: Simpson D J , Kendrick B J L , Kaptein B L , Price A J , Murray D W , Gill H S
Published: June 2010

One of the most important causes of failure in unicompartmental knee replacement (UKR) is polyethylene wear. The aim of this study was to develop and assess a novel Roentgen stereophotogrammetric analysis (RSA)-based method for the measurement of linear wear suitable for UKR.

Model-based RSA was used to estimate the linear wear of polyethylene bearings in UKR. A phantom was used to validate the method using in vitro measured bearing thicknesses and the linear wear of ten control bearings was estimated in vivo. Computer aided design (CAD) models for the UKRs were used in the model-based RSA system.

There was no statistically significant difference between the estimated and measured bearing thicknesses using the CAD models ( p = 0.386). The precision of the linear wear measurement, expressed as the standard deviation of the difference between the estimated and measured bearing thickness was 0.163 mm. The bias (mean difference) was 0.030 mm.

The use of RSA to measure in vivo wear in a UKR has been shown to be accurate in a phantom, and has been verified with in vivo measured controls. The technique does not require surgical implantation of marker balls and can be used retrospectively.
A mathematical model to evaluate wear depth of an aluminium alloy reinforced with a silicon carbide particle composite using finite element analysis
Authors: Rao R N , Murthy K M
Published: June 2010

In the present study, an attempt is made to synthesize an aluminium alloy—silicon carbide (SiC) particle composite using a liquid metallurgy route and to characterize the composites in terms of sliding wear behaviour and numerical simulation by finite element analysis. The sliding wear behaviour was studied using a pin-on-disc apparatus with the composite pin sliding against an EN32 steel counter surface at different applied loads and sliding speed. The experimental results for the aluminium alloy—SiC particle composite were validated using a mathematical model. A wear equation was used to predict the steady-state wear rates. It is based on an exponential transient wear volume equation and Archard's equation. An algorithm for the finite element model to simulate wear tests was also developed. The predicted results were in good agreement with the experimental values.
Captivate Your Students' Minds: Developing Interactive Tutorials to Support the Teaching of Spreadsheet Modeling Skills
Authors: Leon Linda , Seal Kala Chand , Przasnyski Zbigniew H.
Published: June 2010

Kolb's experiential theory of learning, later modified by McCarthy to develop the 4MAT model, shows that active experimentation is a large part of learning for all types of learners. We use the 4MAT model as the theoretical underpinning to explore and develop some illustrative interactive tutorials to support the teaching of OR/MS spreadsheet modeling. Due to a much shallower learning curve on the new generation of screen capture technology, the design and creation of such spreadsheet support modules can now realistically be done by individual faculty in a reasonable amount of time. Three levels of interactivity are used in the modules to match the learning stages of the 4MAT model. We discuss implementation issues with current screen capture software and the benefits and limitations of this approach for supporting the teaching of spreadsheet modeling in OR/MS.
Glucose Meter Performance Criteria for Tight Glycemic Control Estimated by Simulation Modeling
Authors: Karon Brad S , Boyd James C , Klee George G
Published: June 2010

Background: Glucose meter analytical performance criteria required for safe and effective management of patients on tight glycemic control (TGC) are not currently defined. We used simulation modeling to relate glucose meter performance characteristics to insulin dosing errors during TGC.

Methods: We used 29 920 glucose values from patients on TGC at 1 institution to represent the expected distribution of glucose values during TGC, and we used 2 different simulation models to relate glucose meter analytical performance to insulin dosing error using these 29 920 initial glucose values and assuming 10%, 15%, or 20% total allowable error (TEa) criteria.

Results: One-category insulin dosing errors were common under all error conditions. Two-category insulin dosing errors occurred more frequently when either 20% or 15% TEa was assumed compared with 10% total error. Dosing errors of 3 or more categories, those most likely to result in hypoglycemia and thus patient harm, occurred infrequently under all error conditions with the exception of 20% TEa.

Conclusions: Glucose meter technologies that operate within a 15% total allowable error tolerance are unlikely to produce large (≥3-category) insulin dosing errors during TGC. Increasing performance to 10% TEa should reduce the frequency of 2-category insulin dosing errors, although additional studies are necessary to determine the clinical impact of such errors during TGC. Current criteria that allow 20% total allowable error in glucose meters may not be optimal for patient management during TGC.
Evolving Narratives About Childhood Sexual Abuse: Challenging the Dominance of the Victim and Survivor Paradigm
Authors: Hunter Sally V.
Published: June 2010

This research project explored the ongoing process of constructing a narrative, following childhood sexual abuse. Twenty‐two men and women aged 25–70 were interviewed about their childhood sexual experiences with adults using narrative inquiry methodology. These experiences occurred in different social and historical contexts, when the theoretical understandings and treatment of the issue of child sexual abuse were significantly different from the present. Many factors made disclosure even more difficult then than it is now including: respect for authority; rigid gender roles; the taboo surrounding sexual issues; lack of supportive adults; and lack of language to describe what was happening. Participants told four differing narratives about their experiences: narratives of silence; narratives of ongoing suffering; narratives of transformation; and narratives of transcendence. These narratives were examined in relation to the changing social and historical context and the current dominance of the victim and survivor paradigm in the child sexual abuse literature.
Nonparametric Bayesian Variable Selection With Applications to Multiple Quantitative Trait Loci Mapping With Epistasis and Gene–Environment Interaction
Authors: Zou Fei , Huang Hanwen , Lee Seunggeun , Hoeschele Ina
Published: June 2010

The joint action of multiple genes is an important source of variation for complex traits and human diseases. However, mapping genes with epistatic effects and gene–environment interactions is a difficult problem because of relatively small sample sizes and very large parameter spaces for quantitative trait locus models that include such interactions. Here we present a nonparametric Bayesian method to map multiple quantitative trait loci (QTL) by considering epistatic and gene–environment interactions. The proposed method is not restricted to pairwise interactions among genes, as is typically done in parametric QTL analysis. Rather than modeling each main and interaction term explicitly, our nonparametric Bayesian method measures the importance of each QTL, irrespective of whether it is mostly due to a main effect or due to some interaction effect(s), via an unspecified function of the genotypes at all candidate QTL. A Gaussian process prior is assigned to this unknown function. In addition to the candidate QTL, nongenetic factors and covariates, such as age, gender, and environmental conditions, can also be included in the unspecified function. The importance of each genetic factor (QTL) and each nongenetic factor/covariate included in the function is estimated by a single hyperparameter, which enters the covariance function and captures any main or interaction effect associated with a given factor/covariate. An initial evaluation of the performance of the proposed method is obtained via analysis of simulated and real data.
Natural Diversity in Flowering Responses ofArabidopsis thalianaCaused by Variation in a Tandem Gene Array
Authors: Rosloski Sarah Marie , Jali Sathya Sheela , Balasubramanian Sureshkumar , Weigel Detlef , Grbic Vojislava
Published: June 2010

Tandemly arrayed genes that belong to gene families characterize genomes of many organisms. Gene duplication and subsequent relaxation of selection can lead to the establishment of paralogous cluster members that may evolve along different trajectories. Here, we report on the structural variation in MADS AFFECTING FLOWERING 2 (MAF2) gene, one member of the tandemly duplicated cluster of MADS-box-containing transcription factors in Arabidopsis thaliana. The altered gene structure at the MAF2 locus is present as a moderate-frequency polymorphism in Arabidopsis and leads to the extensive diversity in transcript patterns due to alternative splicing. Rearrangements at the MAF2 locus are associated with an early flowering phenotype in BC5 lines. The lack of suppression of flowering time in a MAF2-insertion line expressing the MAF2-specific artificial miRNA suggests that these MAF2 variants are behaving as loss-of-function alleles. The variation in gene architecture is also associated with segregation distortion, which may have facilitated the spread and the establishment of the corresponding alleles throughout the Eurasian range of the A. thaliana population.
Infertility and Male Mating Behavior Deficits Associated With Pde1c in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Morton David B , Clemens-Grisham Rachel , Hazelett Dennis J , Vermehren-Schmaedick Anke
Published: June 2010

Pde1c is a calcium/calmodulin-regulated, dual-specificity cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase. We have used a transposon insertion line to investigate the physiological function of Pde1c in Drosophila melanogaster and to show that the insertion leads to male sterility and male mating behavior defects that include reduced copulation rates. Sterility appears to be primarily due to elimination of sperm from the female reproductive system. The male mating behavior defects were fully rescued by expression of exogenous Pde1c under the control of either a Pde1c or a pan-neuronal promoter, whereas the sterility could be only partially rescued by expression of exogenous Pde1c under the control of these promoters. We also show that Pde1c has a male-specific expression pattern in the CNS with an increased number of Pde1c-expressing neurons in the abdominal ganglion in males.
Bap170, a Subunit of the Drosophila PBAP Chromatin Remodeling Complex, Negatively Regulates the EGFR Signaling
Authors: Rendina Rosaria , Strangi Agostino , Avallone Bice , Giordano Ennio
Published: June 2010

BAP and PBAP constitute the two different forms of the Drosophila melanogaster Brahma chromatin remodelers. A common multisubunit core, containing the Brahma ATPase, can associate either with Osa to form the BAP complex or with Bap170, Bap180, and Sayp to constitute the PBAP complex. Although required for many biological processes, recent genetic analyses revealed that one role of the BAP complex during Drosophila wing development is the proper regulation of EGFR target genes. Here, we show that Bap170, a distinctive subunit of the PBAP complex, participates instead in the negative regulation of EGFR signaling. In adults, loss of Bap170 generates phenotypes similar to the defects induced by hyperactivation of the EGFR pathway, such as overrecruitment of cone and photoreceptor cells and formation extra veins. In genetic interactions, bap170 mutations suppress the loss of veins and photoreceptors caused by mutations affecting the activity of the EGFR pathway. Our results suggest a dual requirement of the PBAP complex: for transcriptional repression of rhomboid and for efficient expression of argos. Interestingly, genetic evidence also indicates that Bap170-mediated repression of rho is inhibited by EGFR signaling, suggesting a scenario of mutual antagonism between EGFR signaling and PBAP function.
Writing Shi Ji into world literature on Burton Watson’s translation
Authors: Li Xiuying , Wang Rongpei
Published: June 2010

This paper examines two English translations of the Chinese classic Shi Ji in America, Records of the Grand Historian by Burton Watson and The Grand Scribe’s Records by William H. Nienhauser, Jr., with a view to testing Lefevere’s proposal that translation needs to be studied in connection with patronage, ideology and poetics in the context of Chinese-English translation. Discrepancies at the textual, linguistic/stylistic and cultural levels are highlighted to account for the influence of different approaches, namely the “literary” vs. the “scholarly”, on the translation proper, and to explain the influence of “patronage, ideology and poetics” on translation as particularly seen in these two projects.
Correlation Between Surface Hydrophilicity and Osteoblastic Differentiation on Microgrooved Titanium Substrata
Authors: Lee Suk-Won , Lee Myung-Hyun , Oh Namsik , Park Jung-Ae , Leesungbok Richard , Ahn Su-Jin
Published: June 2010

Surface microgrooves and acid etching on titanium (Ti) have been proposed to enhance various cell behaviors. In this study, surface hydrophilicity, protein adsorption, and alkaline phosphatase activity of osteoblasts were analyzed and compared between microgrooved Ti, Ti with microgrooves and further acid etching, smooth Ti, and acid-etched smooth Ti. Correlations between the results of each experiment were analyzed using Pearson's correlation analysis, and the influential factor on alkaline phosphatase activity was determined using multiple stepwise regression analysis. Among groups, the Ti substrata with microgrooves and subsequent acid etching showed significantly greater surface hydrophilicity and alkaline phosphatase activity compared with smooth Ti, whereas the Ti substrata with only microgrooves showed the greatest protein adsorption. Multiple stepwise regression analysis determined the surface hydrophilicity of Ti as the influential factor on alkaline phosphatase activity. This study indicates that surface microgrooves and acid etching on Ti substrata enhance surface hydrophilicity, leading to increased alkaline phosphatase activity.
Four-Year Treatment and Radiographic Outcomes of 1-Piece Implants Used in Immediate Function: A Prospective Study in a Single Private Practice
Authors: Hahn Jack A.
Published: June 2010

The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate treatment outcomes of 1-piece implants (NobelDirect and NobelPerfect, Nobel Biocare AB, Gothenberg, Sweden) in routine private clinical practice. Forty-seven implants placed in 30 subjects demonstrated a cumulative survival rate of 97.9% with stable marginal bone levels after 4 years of loading.
Diel variation in abundance and size of the seabob shrimp Xiphopenaeus kroyeri (Crustacea, Penaeoidea) in the Ubatuba region, Southeastern Brazil
Authors: Simões Sabrina M. , Costa Rogerio C. , Fransozo Adilson , Castilho Antonio L.
Published: June 2010

The objective of the present study was to analyze diel variation in the abundance and size of the seabob shrimp Xiphopenaeus kroyeri in the Ubatuba region, state of São Paulo, during the year 2000. In each season of the year, collections were made in the day and at night on 9 transects at depths ranging from 2 to 40 m. The estimated shrimp amount was of 28,878 individuals. Although the catch rate was higher during the day (15,853 shrimp), this did not differ significantly from the catch at night (13,025). The catch rate was higher in daytime on most transects, but was higher at night at locations where fine and very fine sand predominated. The majority of juveniles were caught during the day. The mean size (CL) was 14.43 ± 4.02 mm for day and 14.82 ± 4.28 mm for night samples, and the difference was significant (Student's t-test, df = 2, 429, t = 2.27, p = 0.02). The largest individuals were caught during the night. None of the three models that have been proposed in the literature to account for differences in the diurnal catch pattern of penaeid species can be applied to X. kroyeri. Our results provide evidence that sediment type not only influenced the catch rate in the analyzed periods, but also determined which models might fit the behavior of this species.
Spatial-temporal distribution of fire-protected savanna physiognomies in Southeastern Brazil
Authors: Pinheiro Marcelo H.O. , Azevedo Thiago S. de , Monteiro Reinaldo
Published: June 2010

The analysis of the influence of edaphic finer textures, as a facilitating factor for the expansion of forest formations in the absence of fire, was possible thanks to rare characteristics found in a savanna fragment located in the State of São Paulo, Brazil. The total suppression of fire for over four decades, and the occurrence of two savanna physiognomies, cerrado sensu stricto and cerradão, allowed the conduction of this study based on the hypothesis that cerradão, a physiognomy of forest aspect consisting of fire-sensitive tree and shrubs species, is favored by fire absence and higher soil hydric retention capacity. Edaphic samples were collected from a regular grid of 200 m² for the production of isopletic maps of the distribution of clay, fine sand, coarse sand and silt edaphic textures by the geostatistic method of ordinary kriging. Changes in the areas occupied by both savanna physiognomies, defined on the basis of aerial photographs taken over a period of 43 years, were assessed through mean variation rates. Besides corroborating the hypothesis of edaphic hydric retention as a facilitating factor for the expansion of forest physiognomies in savanna areas, we were able to infer the positive influence of higher precipitation on the increase in cerradão expansion rates.
Understanding the mechanisms of glutamine action in critically ill patients
Authors: Oliveira Gisele P. , Dias Cristina M. , Pelosi Paolo , Rocco Patricia R.M.
Published: June 2010

Glutamine (Gln) is an important energy source and has been used as a supplementary energy substrate. Furthermore, Gln is an essential component for numerous metabolic functions, including acid-base homeostasis, gluconeogenesis, nitrogen transport and synthesis of proteins and nucleic acids. Therefore, glutamine plays a significant role in cell homeostasis and organ metabolism. This article aims to review the mechanisms of glutamine action during severe illnesses. In critically ill patients, the increase in mortality was associated with a decreased plasma Gln concentration. During catabolic stress, Gln consumption rate exceeds the supply, and both plasma and skeletal muscle pools of free Gln are severely reduced. The dose and route of Gln administration clearly influence its effectiveness: high-dose parenteral appears to be more beneficial than low-dose enteral administration. Experimental studies reported that Gln may protect cells, tissues, and whole organisms from stress and injury through the following mechanisms: attenuation of NF (nuclear factor)-kB activation, a balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, reduction in neutrophil accumulation, improvement in intestinal integrity and immune cell function, and enhanced of heat shock protein expression. In conclusion, high-doses of parenteral Gln (>0.50 g/kg/day) demonstrate a greater potential to benefit in critically ill patients, although Gln pathophysiological mechanisms requires elucidation.
Model of wetland development of the Amapá coast during the late Holocene
Authors: Guimarães José T.F. , Cohen Marcelo C.L. , França Marlon C. , Lara Rúben J. , Behling Hermann
Published: June 2010

The modern vegetation types, sedimentary sequences, pollen records and radiocarbon dating obtained from three sediment cores from Calçoene Coastal Plain were used to provide a palaeoecological history during the late Holocene of Amapá coastal wetland according to flood regime, sea-level and climatic changes. Based on these records, four phases of vegetation development are presented and they probably reflect the interaction between the flow energy to the sediment accumulation and the brackish/freshwater influence in the vegetation. This work suggests interchanges among time periods characterized by marine and fluvial influence. The longitudinal profile did not reveal the occurrence of mangrove in the sediment deposited around 2100 yr B.P. During the second phase, the mud progressively filled the depressions and tidal channels. The mangrove probably started its development on the channel edge, and the herbaceous field on the elevated sectors. The third phase is characterized by the interruption of mangrove development and the increase of "várzea" vegetation that may be due to the decrease in porewater salinity related to a decrease in marine water influence. The last phase is represented by the mangrove and "várzea" increase. The correlation between current patterns of geobotanical unit distribution and palaeovegetation indicates that mangrove and "várzea" forests are migrating over the herbaceous field on the topographically highest part of the studied coast, which can be related to a relative sea-level rise.
Malária em mulheres de idade de 10 a 49 anos, segundo o SIVEP- Malária, Manaus, Amazonas, 2003-2006
Authors: Almeida Lesliane Balbino de , Barbosa Maria das Graças Vale , Martinez-Espinosa Flor Ernestina
Published: June 2010

INTRODUÇÃO: O Sistema de Informação de Vigilância Epidemiológica SIVEP-Malária é um sistema de informação onde são notificados os casos de malária diagnosticados no Brasil, desde 2003. Este estudo analisou os casos de malária notificados em mulheres de 10 a 49 anos de idade, segundo a presença ou ausência de gestação no período de 2003-2006. MÉTODOS: Foi solicitado à Fundação de Vigilância em Saúde, a autorização para avaliação dos dados. RESULTADOS: Foram analisados 13.308 casos notificados no período, sendo 815 (6,1%) registrados em gestantes. Houve diminuição gradativa do número absoluto de casos entre gestantes e não gestantes. Em relação à espécie, 14,3% dos casos notificados foram causadas pelo Plasmodium falciparum; 85% pelo Plasmodium vivax e 0,6% pela associação dos dois. A frequência da infecção por Plasmodium falciparum foi maior entre gestantes que não gestantes (p>0,05). Embora a maior parte dos casos residam na zona leste da cidade, a zona oeste apareceu como o local de provável infecção em 39% dos casos. Observou-se picos endêmicos de malária entre as não gestantes nos meses de julho e agosto dos quatro anos analisados. CONCLUSÕES: Os dados mostram que o SIVEP-Malária é importante ferramenta para o conhecimento da distribuição da malária que deve ser usado para controle da endemia. Entretanto, os dados dos primeiros anos de funcionamento tiveram sua qualidade comprometida por falhas no preenchimento, usando o campo de notificação gravidez como exemplo.
Acidente por Rhopalurus agamemnon (Koch, 1839) (Scorpiones, Buthidae)
Authors: Brandão Reuber Albuquerque , Françoso Renata Dias
Published: June 2010

Acidentes escorpiônicos constituem um sério problema de saúde pública no Brasil. Rhopalurus agamemnon é um grande escorpião do bioma Cerrado, muito abundante em diversas localidades do Brasil Central. A espécie utiliza ambientes campestres e savânicos, sendo comum no interior de cupinzeiros. Entretanto, desaparece de locais onde o cerrado é removido. Os acidentes relatados apresentam sintomas de envenenamentos moderados, mas são baseados em identificações discutíveis. Aqui apresentamos o relato de um acidente seguramente causado por esta espécie. Concluímos que os poucos relatos disponíveis não permitem avaliar a gravidade dos acidentes e o eventual risco deste escorpião para a saúde pública.
Aplicação de ácido giberélico (GA3) e anatomia da epiderme foliar visando à detecção de variantes somaclonais de bananeira Musa sp. Colla cv. Prata-anã (Musaceae)
Authors: Silva Janaína de Oliveira Costa , Lacerda Guilherme Araújo , Castro Evaristo Mauro de , Chalfun-Júnior Antonio , Paiva Luciano Vilela , Oliveira Cynthia de
Published: June 2010

A micropropagação de indivíduos do gênero Musa vem sendo aplicada em larga escala para obtenção de mudas de qualidade fitossanitária. O cultivo in vitro pode levar a ocorrência de variação somaclonal que pode acarretar em prejuízos aos produtores. Atualmente, a diferenciação das plantas variantes somaclonais é possível somente quando as mesmas encontram-se em condições de campo, mediante crescimento exagerado, conhecido como gigantismo. Mutantes para a produção de giberelina apresentaram fenótipo anão e esta mutação já foi revertida com a aplicação de ácido giberélico exógeno. A anatomia de plântulas cultivadas in vitro e ex vitro fornece informações que podem auxiliar na melhoria das técnicas de micropropagação e na sua seleção precoce. Objetivou-se verificar a diferenciação das estruturas anatômica entre plantas normais e variantes somaclonais. Para tal, utilizaram-se folhas de 'Prata-anã' cultivadas in vitro, em fase de aclimatização e no campo após a constatação da variação somaclonal. Secções paradérmicas foram realizadas para avaliação do complexo estomático. Secções transversais foram realizadas para medições da espessura das faces adaxial e abaxial da epiderme, medições dos parênquimas clorofilianos e da nervura central. Os resultados permitiram verificar diferenças estruturais das plantas ao longo das fases de cultivo. Foi possível também determinar marcadores anatômicos baseados no diâmetro da nervura central e na hipoderme inferior que permiti distinguir as plantas normais das variantes somaclonais.
O fenômeno da acomodação familiar em pais/mães de pacientes com transtorno obsessivo-compulsivo
Authors: Amazonas Maria Cristina Lopes de Almeida , Arcoverde Renata Lopes , Caldas Marcus Túlio , Silva Renata Raimundo da
Published: June 2010

Um dos fenômenos mais frequentes nas famílias de pacientes com Transtorno Obsessivo-Compulsivo é a acomodação familiar: participação nos rituais do paciente e modificações na rotina, contribuindo para o desencadeamento e a manutenção dos sintomas. Nesta pesquisa, verificou-se o grau de acomodação familiar apresentado por doze mães e dois pais, selecionados por meio da aplicação da Medida de Criticismo Percebido aos pacientes. Os familiares responderam à Escala de Acomodação Familiar. Os resultados foram analisados em torno de quatro temáticas: 1) participação nos rituais obsessivo-compulsivos do(a) paciente; 2) modificações na rotina familiar; 3) desgaste na família; 4) grau de perturbação do(a) paciente quando não atendido(a) em suas solicitações. De 70 respostas, 78,6% afirmaram a participação nos rituais obsessivo-compulsivos; de 56 respostas, 78,6% disseram haver modificações na rotina familiar; 100,0% das respostas indicaram desgaste na família e 83,3% mostraram que o paciente perturba os familiares quando não é atendido em suas solicitações.