bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Manipulation of the Anoxic Metabolism in Escherichia coli by ArcB Deletion Variants in the ArcBA Two-Component System
Authors: Bidart Gonzalo N. , Ruiz Jimena A. , de Almeida Alejandra , Méndez Beatriz S. , Nikel Pablo I.
Published: October 2012

Bioprocesses conducted under conditions with restricted O
2
supply are increasingly exploited for the synthesis of reduced biochemicals using different biocatalysts. The model facultative anaerobe
Escherichia coli
has elaborate sensing and signal transduction mechanisms for redox control in response to the availability of O
2
and other electron acceptors. The ArcBA two-component system consists of ArcB, a membrane-associated sensor kinase, and ArcA, the cognate response regulator. The tripartite hybrid kinase ArcB possesses a transmembrane, a PAS, a primary transmitter (H1), a receiver (D1), and a phosphotransfer (H2) domain. Metabolic fluxes were compared under anoxic conditions in a wild-type
E. coli
strain, its Δ
arcB
derivative, and two partial
arcB
deletion mutants in which ArcB lacked either the H1 domain or the PAS-H1-D1 domains. These analyses revealed that elimination of different segments in ArcB determines a distinctive distribution of
d
-glucose catabolic fluxes, different from that observed in the Δ
arcB
background. Metabolite profiles, enzyme activity levels, and gene expression patterns were also investigated in these strains. Relevant alterations were observed at the P-enol-pyruvate/pyruvate and acetyl coenzyme A metabolic nodes, and the formation of reduced fermentation metabolites, such as succinate,
d
-lactate, and ethanol, was favored in the mutant strains to different extents compared to the wild-type strain. These phenotypic traits were associated with altered levels of the enzymatic activities operating at these nodes, as well as with elevated NADH/NAD
+
ratios. Thus, targeted modification of global regulators to obtain different metabolic flux distributions under anoxic conditions is emerging as an attractive tool for metabolic engineering purposes.
Ethanol Production and Maximum Cell Growth Are Highly Correlated with Membrane Lipid Composition during Fermentation as Determined by Lipidomic Analysis of 22 Saccharomyces cerevisiae Strains
Authors: Henderson Clark M. , Lozada-Contreras Michelle , Jiranek Vladimir , Longo Marjorie L. , Block David E.
Published: October 2012

Optimizing ethanol yield during fermentation is important for efficient production of fuel alcohol, as well as wine and other alcoholic beverages. However, increasing ethanol concentrations during fermentation can create problems that result in arrested or sluggish sugar-to-ethanol conversion. The fundamental cellular basis for these problem fermentations, however, is not well understood. Small-scale fermentations were performed in a synthetic grape must using 22 industrialSaccharomyces cerevisiaestrains (primarily wine strains) with various degrees of ethanol tolerance to assess the correlation between lipid composition and fermentation kinetic parameters. Lipids were extracted at several fermentation time points representing different growth phases of the yeast to quantitatively analyze phospholipids and ergosterol utilizing atmospheric pressure ionization-mass spectrometry methods. Lipid profiling of individual fermentations indicated that yeast lipid class profiles do not shift dramatically in composition over the course of fermentation. Multivariate statistical analysis of the data was performed using partial least-squares linear regression modeling to correlate lipid composition data with fermentation kinetic data. The results indicate a strong correlation (R2= 0.91) between the overall lipid composition and the final ethanol concentration (wt/wt), an indicator of strain ethanol tolerance. One potential component of ethanol tolerance, the maximum yeast cell concentration, was also found to be a strong function of lipid composition (R2= 0.97). Specifically, strains unable to complete fermentation were associated with high phosphatidylinositol levels early in fermentation. Yeast strains that achieved the highest cell densities and ethanol concentrations were positively correlated with phosphatidylcholine species similar to those known to decrease the perturbing effects of ethanol in model membrane systems.
Increasing the Heme-Dependent Respiratory Efficiency of Lactococcus lactis by Inhibition of Lactate Dehydrogenase
Authors: Arioli Stefania , Zambelli Daniele , Guglielmetti Simone , De Noni Ivano , Pedersen Martin B. , Pedersen Per Dedenroth , Dal Bello Fabio , Mora Diego
Published: October 2012

The discovery of heme-induced respiration in
Lactococcus lactis
has radically improved the industrial processes used for the biomass production of this species. Here, we show that inhibition of the lactate dehydrogenase activity of
L. lactis
during growth under respiration-permissive conditions can stimulate aerobic respiration, thereby increasing not only growth efficiency but also the robustness of this organism.
NeuroBactrus, a Novel, Highly Effective, and Environmentally Friendly Recombinant Baculovirus Insecticide
Authors: Shim Hee Jin , Choi Jae Young , Wang Yong , Tao Xue Ying , Liu Qin , Roh Jong Yul , Kim Jae Su , Kim Woo Jin , Woo Soo Dong , Jin Byung Rae , Je Yeon Ho
Published: October 2012

A novel recombinant baculovirus, NeuroBactrus, was constructed to develop an improved baculovirus insecticide with additional beneficial properties, such as a higher insecticidal activity and improved recovery, compared to wild-type baculovirus. For the construction of NeuroBactrus, the
Bacillus thuringiensis
crystal protein gene (here termed
cry1-5
) was introduced into the
Autographa californica
nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV) genome by fusion of the polyhedrin–
cry1-5
–polyhedrin genes under the control of the polyhedrin promoter. In the opposite direction, an insect-specific neurotoxin gene,
AaIT
, from
Androctonus australis
was introduced under the control of an early promoter from
Cotesia plutellae
bracovirus by fusion of a partial fragment of
orf603
. The polyhedrin–Cry1-5–polyhedrin fusion protein expressed by the NeuroBactrus was not only occluded into the polyhedra, but it was also activated by treatment with trypsin, resulting in an ∼65-kDa active toxin. In addition, quantitative PCR revealed that the neurotoxin was expressed from the early phase of infection. NeuroBactrus showed a high level of insecticidal activity against
Plutella xylostella
larvae and a significant reduction in the median lethal time against
Spodoptera exigua
larvae compared to those of wild-type AcMNPV. Rerecombinant mutants derived from NeuroBactrus in which
AaIT
and/or
cry1-5
were deleted were generated by serial passages
in vitro
. Expression of the foreign proteins (
B. thuringiensis
toxin and AaIT) was continuously reduced during the serial passage of the NeuroBactrus. Moreover, polyhedra collected from
S. exigua
larvae infected with the serially passaged NeuroBactrus showed insecticidal activity similar to that of wild-type AcMNPV. These results suggested that NeuroBactrus could be recovered to wild-type AcMNPV through serial passaging.
Intracellular NADPH Levels Affect the Oligomeric State of the Glucose 6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase
Authors: Saliola Michele , Tramonti Angela , Lanini Claudio , Cialfi Samantha , De Biase Daniela , Falcone Claudio
Published: October 2012

In the yeast
Kluyveromyces lactis
, glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) is detected as two differently migrating forms on native polyacrylamide gels. The pivotal metabolic role of G6PDH in
K. lactis
led us to investigate the mechanism controlling the two activities in respiratory and fermentative mutant strains. An extensive analysis of these mutants showed that the NAD
+
(H)/NADP
+
(H)-dependent cytosolic alcohol (ADH) and aldehyde (ALD) dehydrogenase balance affects the expression of the G6PDH activity pattern. Under fermentative/ethanol growth conditions, the concomitant activation of ADH and ALD activities led to cytosolic accumulation of NADPH, triggering an alteration in the oligomeric state of the G6PDH caused by displacement/release of the structural NADP
+
bound to each subunit of the enzyme. The new oligomeric G6PDH form with faster-migrating properties increases as a consequence of intracellular redox unbalance/NADPH accumulation, which inhibits G6PDH activity
in vivo
. The appearance of a new G6PDH-specific activity band, following incubation of
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
and human cellular extracts with NADP
+
, also suggests that a regulatory mechanism of this activity through NADPH accumulation is highly conserved among eukaryotes.
Metal Resistance and Lithoautotrophy in the Extreme Thermoacidophile Metallosphaera sedula
Authors: Maezato Yukari , Johnson Tyler , McCarthy Samuel , Dana Karl , Blum Paul
Published: October 2012

Archaea such asMetallosphaera sedulaare thermophilic lithoautotrophs that occupy unusually acidic and metal-rich environments. These traits are thought to underlie their industrial importance for bioleaching of base and precious metals. In this study, a genetic approach was taken to investigate the specific relationship between metal resistance and lithoautotrophy during biotransformation of the primary copper ore, chalcopyrite (CuFeS2). In this study, a genetic system was developed forM. sedulato investigate parameters that limit bioleaching of chalcopyrite. The functional role of theM. sedula copRTAoperon was demonstrated by cross-species complementation of a copper-sensitiveSulfolobus solfataricus copRmutant. Inactivation of the gene encoding theM. sedulacopper efflux protein,copA, using targeted recombination compromised metal resistance and eliminated chalcopyrite bioleaching. In contrast, a spontaneousM. sedulamutant (CuR1) with elevated metal resistance transformed chalcopyrite at an accelerated rate without affecting chemoheterotrophic growth. Proteomic analysis of CuR1 identified pleiotropic changes, including altered abundance of transport proteins having AAA-ATPase motifs. Addition of the insoluble carbonate mineral witherite (BaCO3) further stimulated chalcopyrite lithotrophy, indicating that carbon was a limiting factor. Since both mineral types were actively colonized, enhanced metal leaching may arise from the cooperative exchange of energy and carbon between surface-adhered populations. Genetic approaches provide a new means of improving the efficiency of metal bioleaching by enhancing the mechanistic understanding of thermophilic lithoautotrophy.
Gateway Role for rRNA Precursors in Ribosome Assembly
Authors: Gutgsell Nancy S. , Jain Chaitanya
Published: October 2012

In
Escherichia coli
, rRNAs are initially transcribed with precursor sequences, which are subsequently removed through processing reactions. To investigate the role of precursor sequences, we analyzed ribosome assembly in strains containing mutations in the processing RNases. We observed that defects in 23S rRNA processing resulted in an accumulation of ribosomal subunits and caused a significant delay in ribosome assembly. These observations suggest that precursor residues in 23S rRNA control ribosome assembly and could be serving a regulatory role to couple ribosome assembly to rRNA processing. The possible mechanisms through which rRNA processing and ribosome assembly could be linked are discussed.
An Archaeal Histone Is Required for Transformation of Thermococcus kodakarensis
Authors: Čuboňová Lubomira , Katano Masahiro , Kanai Tamotsu , Atomi Haruyuki , Reeve John N. , Santangelo Thomas J.
Published: October 2012

Archaeal histones wrap DNA into complexes, designated archaeal nucleosomes, that resemble the tetrasome core of a eukaryotic nucleosome. Therefore, all DNA interactions
in vivo
in
Thermococcus kodakarensis
, the most genetically versatile model species for archaeal research, must occur in the context of a histone-bound genome. Here we report the construction and properties of
T. kodakarensis
strains that have TK1413 or TK2289 deleted, the genes that encode HTkA and HTkB, respectively, the two archaeal histones present in this archaeon. All attempts to generate a strain with both TK1413 and TK2289 deleted were unsuccessful, arguing that a histone-mediated event(s) in
T. kodakarensis
is essential. The HTkA and HTkB amino acid sequences are 84% identical (56 of 67 residues) and 94% similar (63 of 67 residues), but despite this homology and their apparent redundancy in terms of supporting viability, the absence of HTkA and HTkB resulted in differences in growth and in quantitative and qualitative differences in genome transcription. A most surprising result was that the deletion of TK1413 (Δ
htkA
) resulted in a
T. kodakarensis
strain that was no longer amenable to transformation, whereas the deletion of TK2289 (Δ
htkB
) had no detrimental effects on transformation. Potential roles for the archaeal histones in regulating gene expression and for HTkA in DNA uptake and recombination are discussed.
Transcriptional Regulation of the CmeABC Multidrug Efflux Pump and the KatA Catalase by CosR in Campylobacter jejuni
Authors: Hwang Sunyoung , Zhang Qijing , Ryu Sangryeol , Jeon Byeonghwa
Published: October 2012

CosR is an essential response regulator in
Campylobacter jejuni
, a major food-borne pathogen causing enteritis worldwide. A transcriptomic analysis performed in this study discovered 93 genes whose transcriptional levels were changed >2-fold due to the repression of CosR expression by antisense peptide nucleic acid. The identified CosR-regulated genes are involved in various cellular functions, such as energy production, protein synthesis and folding, flagellum biogenesis, and lipid metabolism. Interestingly, 17 of the 93 CosR-regulated genes (18.3%) are predicted essential genes, indicating that CosR may participate in the regulation of vital biological processes in
C. jejuni
. In particular, CosR knockdown increased the transcriptional levels of
cmeA
,
cmeB
, and
cmeC
genes, whose protein product (CmeABC) is an important determinant conferring multidrug resistance in
Campylobacter
. Negative regulation of
cmeABC
by CosR was verified by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and P

cmeABC

::
lacZ
assay. The results of electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSAs) and DNase I footprinting assays demonstrated that CosR directly binds to the
cmeABC
promoter. Another notable finding is that CosR regulates the transcription of
katA
, the sole catalase gene in
C. jejuni
. Further characterization with qRT-PCR, the catalase enzyme assay, EMSA, and DNase I footprinting assays successfully demonstrated that CosR affects the
katA
transcription and the catalase activity by direct interactions with the
katA
promoter. The findings in this study clearly demonstrated that CosR regulates resistance mechanisms in
C. jejuni
by controlling the expression of genes involved in oxidative stress defense and extrusion of toxic compounds out of the cell.
ArcA and AppY Antagonize IscR Repression of Hydrogenase-1 Expression under Anaerobic Conditions, Revealing a Novel Mode of O
2
Regulation of Gene Expression in Escherichia coli
Authors: Nesbit A. D. , Fleischhacker A. S. , Teter S. J. , Kiley P. J.
Published: October 2012

Transcription of the
Escherichia coli
hydrogenase-1 operon (
hyaABCDEF
) is increased by the transcription factors ArcA and AppY under anaerobic growth conditions. However, IscR, which represses transcription of the
hyaA
promoter (P

hyaA

) under aerobic conditions, was not known to repress transcription of this promoter under anaerobic conditions. Here, we report that ArcA and AppY increase P

hyaA

expression under anaerobic conditions by antagonizing IscR binding at P

hyaA

, since IscR repression is observed when either ArcA or AppY is eliminated. The ability of ArcA and AppY to act as antirepressors of IscR repression of P

hyaA

depended on IscR levels, suggesting that IscR competes with ArcA and/or AppY for binding. In support of this competition model, electrophoretic mobility shift assays and DNase I footprinting showed that the ArcA and IscR binding sites overlap and that binding of ArcA and IscR is mutually exclusive. Unexpectedly, IscR with a C92A mutation (IscR-C92A), which mimics the clusterless form of the protein that is present predominantly under aerobic conditions, was a better repressor under anaerobic conditions of both P

hyaA

and a constitutive promoter containing the IscR binding site from P

hyaA

than wild-type IscR, which is predominantly in the [2Fe-2S] form under anaerobic conditions. This observation could not be explained by differences in DNA binding affinities or IscR levels, so we conclude that [2Fe-2S]-IscR is a weaker repressor of P

hyaA

than clusterless IscR. In sum, a combination of ArcA and AppY antirepression of IscR function, lower levels of IscR, and weak repression by [2Fe-2S]-IscR leads to increased P

hyaA

expression under anaerobic conditions.
Level of phosphohistone H3 among various types of human cancers
Authors: Sun Amy , Zhou Wei , Lunceford Jared , Strack Peter , Dauffenbach Lisa M , Kerfoot Christopher A
Published: October 2012

Objectives

Anti-phosphorylated histone H3 (pHH3) antibodies specifically detect the core protein histone H3 only when phosphorylated at serine 10 (Ser10) or serine 28 (Ser28). Measurement of pHH3 levels can be used for quantifying mitosis and the effectiveness of mitotic inhibitors in early drug development. However, data on the expression level of pHH3 (Ser10) and pHH3 (Ser28) among different cancers are limited. This study was designed to investigate the expression levels of pHH3 across different types of cancers, using uniform techniques and assay platforms in a single laboratory.

Design

Retrospective study.

Setting

Single laboratory.

Specimens

Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded various human cancer specimens were provided by Mosaic Laboratories Tissue Bank.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Using immunohistochemistry, pHH3 levels were measured using both pHH3 (Ser10) and (Ser28) antibodies among 10 human melanoma and 10 ovarian tumour samples. The samples were reviewed blindly by two reviewers. pHH3 (Ser10) was then selected to measure the pHH3 levels in cancers of breast, colorectal, oesophageal, gastric, head and neck and lung (n=5 for each cancer).

Results

The pHH3 (Ser10) expression was higher than pHH3 (Ser28) in both melanoma and ovarian cancers (p<0.01), with the mean (SD) levels of 1.28% (0.47%) for Ser10 and 0.53% (0.44%) for Ser28 among melanoma and 3.47% (3.51%) for Ser10 and 0.62% (0.68%) for Ser28 among ovarian cancers, respectively. No statistically significant differences were observed among different cancer types tested for pHH3 using Ser10 (p=0.197). No reviewer effect was identified.

Conclusions

The pHH3 Ser10 was significantly higher than Ser28 and may serve as the more robust of two pHH3 assays for measuring mitotic index.
Effects of myocardial fibrosis assessed by MRI on dynamic left ventricular outflow tract obstruction in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: a retrospective database analysis
Authors: Biagini Elena , Lorenzini Massimiliano , Olivotto Iacopo , Rocchi Guido , Lovato Luigi , Lai Francesco , Rosmini Stefania , Pazzi Chiara , Pasquale Ferdinando , Reggiani Maria Letizia Bacchi , Fattori Rossella , Rapezzi Claudio
Published: October 2012

Background

While implications of myocardial fibrosis on left ventricular (LV) function at rest have been studied in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), the pathophysiological consequences on dynamic LV outflow tract (LVOT) gradient have so far not been investigated in detail.

Objective

To evaluate the influence of myocardial fibrosis, detected by MRI as late-gadolinium enhancement (LGE), on LVOT gradient in HCM.

Design

Retrospective database analysis.

Setting

A single Italian cardiomyopathies referral centre.

Patients

Seventy-six HCM patients with normal ejection fraction at rest.

Interventions

Patients underwent cardiac MR and performed bicycle exercise echocardiogram within a month.

Results

LGE was present in 54 patients (71%), ranging from 0.2% to 32.4% of LV mass. There was a weak correlation between the amount of fibrosis and LVOT gradient variation during exercise in the overall population (r=−0.243, p=0.034) and a stronger correlation in patients with obstructive HCM at rest (r=−0.524, p=0.021). Patients with an LVOT gradient increase ≥50 mm Hg during exercise had a significantly lesser extent of fibrosis than those with an increase <50 mm Hg (0.7% (IQR 0–2.4) vs 3.2% (IQR 0.2–7.4), p=0.006). The extent of fibrosis was significantly lower among the highest quartiles of LVOT gradient increase (p=0.009).

Conclusions

In patients with HCM and normal ejection fraction at rest, myocardial fibrosis was associated with a lower increase in LVOT gradient during exercise, probably due to a lesser degree of myocardial contractility recruitment. This negative association was more evident in patients with an obstructive form at rest.
Expression of prostaglandin E receptor subtype EP4 in conjunctival epithelium of patients with ocular surface disorders: case-control study
Authors: Ueta Mayumi , Sotozono Chie , Yamada Keiko , Yokoi Norihiko , Inatomi Tsutomu , Kinoshita Shigeru
Published: October 2012

Objectives

To confirm the downregulation of PTGER4 mRNA in the conjunctiva of Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN) and ocular cicatricial pemphigoid (OCP) patients and to examine the expression of its EP4 protein in the conjunctival epithelium of patients with various ocular surface disorders.

Design

Case-control study.

Setting and participants

We performed quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) analysis ofPTGER4mRNA in conjunctival tissue sections from patients with SJS/TEN and OCP to confirm the downregulation ofPTGER4mRNA expression. We also analysed EP4 immunohistologically in other ocular surface disorders. Conjunctival tissues were obtained from patients undergoing surgical reconstruction of the ocular surface due to chemical eye burns, subacute SJS/TEN or chronic SJS/TEN, chronic OCP, severe graft versus host disease (GVHD) and from patients with Mooren's ulcers treated by resection of the inflammatory conjunctiva.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The expression ofPTGER4mRNA and EP4 protein assessed by quantitative RT-PCR assay and immunohistological methods.

Results

PTGER4mRNA was significantly lower in conjunctival tissues from SJS and OCP patients than in the control conjunctivochalasis samples. EP4 protein was detected in conjunctival epithelium from patients with chemical eye burn and in control conjunctival epithelium from patients with conjunctivochalasis. Its expression varied in conjunctival epithelium from patients with Mooren's ulcer. We did not detect EP4 immunoreactivity in conjunctival epithelium from patients with subacute SJS/TEN, severe GVHD, chronic SJS/TEN or OCP.

Conclusions

The strong downregulation of EP4 expression in conjunctival epithelium from patients with OCP or SJS/TEN may be attributable to ocular surface inflammation.
Prevalence of respiratory symptoms at two time points in a population of children in Manchester—a cohort study
Authors: Linehan Mary F , Niven Robert M , Baxter David N , Morris Julie A , Frank Timothy L
Published: October 2012

Objective

Although the prevalence of asthma and atopy has been noted to have increased in recent decades, patterns of asthma prevalence have, traditionally, been difficult to track. Most reports on trends in childhood asthma have been cross-sectional measuring the prevalence in cohorts of similar aged children at different time points. The aim of this paper is to report on the prevalence of symptoms in the same cohort at two separate time points.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Community-based study, Central Manchester.

Participants

MANCAS1, study n=5086, participation n=2414. MANCAS2, study n=6338, participation n=1608. Children born in a hospital in Manchester within specified dates and still living or attending a school in Central Manchester were eligible for inclusion. Children on an ‘at-risk’ register or living with short-term carers were excluded.

Outcome measures

Data on respiratory symptoms were collected at two separate time points using parent completed questionnaires.

Results

Response rate for MANCAS1 was 47.5% and 25.4% for MANCAS2. There were 801 individuals for whom a response to both studies was received. There was a significant reduction in the prevalence of night cough (29.5% vs 18.3%, McNemar <0.01) and antibiotic use for respiratory infections (9.1% vs 4.3%, McNemar <0.01) between the two study time points. The prevalence of hay fever/eczema increased (41.6% vs 46.9%, McNemar <0.01) between the two studies. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of wheeze, exercise-induced wheeze or asthma medication.

Conclusions

Although this report of respiratory symptom prevalence in the same population at two time points over a 7-year period shows a constant burden of asthma symptoms, there is some suggestion of variability in asthma symptom prevalence within the cohort as the children matured while the burden of allergy symptoms increased.
The effect of smoking on health-related quality of life in lung cancer patients: a systematic review
Authors: Rowland Christine , Eiser Christine , Rowe Richard , Danson Sarah
Published: October 2012

Introduction

Given poor survival rates for lung cancer, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is very important. Smoking is prevalent among those diagnosed with lung cancer, and continued smoking is associated with compromised HRQoL in other patient groups.

Aims

A systematic review was conducted to determine: (i) differences in HRQoL between lung cancer patients who smoke compared with those who quit or never smoked and (ii) changes in HRQoL in patients who continue to smoke after diagnosis compared with those who quit or never smoked.

Method

Scopus, Medline, PubMed, PsychINFO and Web of Knowledge from January 1995 to June 2010 were searched. The included studies were assessed and given a score for quality.

Results

Eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Four studies showed that lung cancer patients who smoked report impaired HRQoL compared with those who never smoked or had quit. Smokers reported significantly lower HRQoL than former smokers, who in turn reported lower HRQoL than never smokers. This finding remained consistent over time.

Conclusions

When taking account of methodological quality, smoking is associated with poorer HRQoL in lung cancer patients. These results suggest that programmes are needed to address the specific support needs of this group and promote HRQoL during their final months. Longitudinal research is necessary to further understand the association between smoking and HRQoL.
Looking back: a genetic retrospective study of Brazilian Orf virus isolates
Authors: Abrahão J. S. , Borges I. A. , Mazur C. , Lobato Z. I. P. , Ferreira P. C. P. , Bonjardim C. A. , Trindade G. S. , Kroon E. G.
Published: October 2012

Orf virus (ORFV), the prototype of the genus Parapoxvirus, is the aetiological agent of contagious ecthyma (CE), a pustular dermatitis that afflicts domestic and wild small ruminants. CE is one of the most widespread poxvirus diseases in the world, causing public health impacts. Outbreaks of ORFV have been observed in all geographical regions of Brazil, affecting ovine and caprine herds. The origins, epidemiology and identity of Brazilian ORFVs are unknown, and no comparative or phylogenetic studies of these viruses have been performed. In the present study, we revisited CE outbreaks which occurred until 32 years ago, and we assessed, genetically, five viral isolates. We performed the sequencing and analysis of the three ORFV molecular markers: B2L gene, virus interferon resistance gene (VIR) and the vascular endothelial growth factor gene. Nucleotide and amino acid analysis of the analysed genes demonstrated that Brazilian ORFVs do not form a unique cluster, and presented more similarity to other worldwide ORFV samples than with each other. These data raise the questions of whether there are different worldwide ORFVs circulating in Brazil, or if all the Brazilian ORFV samples are of the same virus taken at distinct time points.
DARK ENERGY MODELS AND LAWS OF THERMODYNAMICS IN BIANCHI I MODEL
Authors: SHARIF M. , SALEEM RABIA
Published: October 2012

This paper is devoted to check validity of the laws of thermodynamics for locally rotationally symmetric (LRS) Bianchi type I (BI) universe model which is filled with combination of dark matter and dark energy (DE). We take two types of DE models, i.e. generalized holographic DE (HDE) and generalized Ricci DE (RDE). It is proved that the first and generalized second law of thermodynamics (GSLT) are valid on the apparent horizon for both the models. Further, we take fixed radius L of the apparent horizon with original holographic or RDE. We conclude that the first and GSLT do not hold on the horizon of fixed radius L for both the models.
DYNAMICAL SYMMETRY BREAKING IN A MINIMAL 3-3-1 MODEL
Authors: DOFF A. , NATALE A. A.
Published: October 2012

The gauge symmetry breaking in some versions of 3-3-1 models can be implemented dynamically because at the scale of a few TeVs the U(1)X coupling constant becomes strong. In this work, we consider the dynamical symmetry breaking in a minimal SU(3) TC × SU(3)L × U(1)X model, where we propose a new scheme to cancel the chiral anomalies, including two-index symmetric (6) technifermions, which incorporates naturally the walking behavior in the Technicolor (TC) sector. The composite scalar content of the model is minimal and all the symmetry breaking is implemented by a multiplet of technifermions. The choice of TC representations not only provides the anomaly cancelation with a walking behavior, but is crucial to promote the model's full dynamical symmetry breaking. We consider the dynamical generation of technigluon masses and, depending on the 3-3-1 symmetry breaking scale (μ331), we verify that the technigluon mass is strongly linked to the Z′ mass scale, for instance, if μ331 = 1 TeV , we have MZ′ > 1 TeV only if M TG < 350 GeV .
SCALING BEHAVIOR OF THE GROUND-STATE FIDELITY IN THE LIPKIN–MESHKOV–GLICK MODEL
Authors: LEUNG CHING-YEE , YU WING CHI , KWOK HO-MAN , GU SHI-JIAN , LIN HAI-QING
Published: October 2012

In this paper, we study the scaling behavior of the ground-state logarithmic fidelity in the Lipkin–Meshkov–Glick (LMG) model. We find that the logarithmic fidelity shows a different scaling behavior in different phases of the model. It is an extensive quantity in the model's symmetry-broken phase while it behaves intensively in the polarized phase. Moreover, we also find that the logarithmic fidelity shows a singular behavior around the vicinity of the critical point and the critical exponent of the correlation length is also obtained numerically.
TUNABLE OUTPUT OF SECOND HARMONIC GENERATIONS IN PHOTONIC QUANTUM WELL STRUCTURES MADE OF NONLINEAR MATERIAL
Authors: ZHAO LI-MING , ZHOU YUN-SONG , ZHAO JING
Published: October 2012

We have studied multiple wavelength second harmonic generation (SHG) in one-dimensional multiple photonic quantum-wells (PQWs) structure made of linear and nonlinear material. The numerical simulations show that the devised sample can achieve simultaneously multiple wavelength SHG with nearly identical conversion efficiency by the modulation of both the linear and nonlinear optical coefficient. The fundamental wave frequencies are aimed at the defect states by modulating the linear optical coefficient. The optimal arrangement of the polarization directions of the ferroelectric domains in multiple PQWs are determined by simulated annealing method. By tuning the polarization directions of the domains, the conversion efficiencies of "forward" and "backward" for multiple wavelength SHG can be flexibly modulated.
SOME OPEN POINTS IN NONEXTENSIVE STATISTICAL MECHANICS
Authors: TSALLIS CONSTANTINO
Published: October 2012

We present and discuss a list of some interesting points that are currently open in nonextensive statistical mechanics. Their analytical, numerical, experimental or observational advancement would naturally be very welcome.
UNIVERSALITY OF FIRST AND SECOND ORDER PHASE TRANSITION IN SOLAR ACTIVITY: EVIDENCE FOR NONEXTENSIVE TSALLIS STATISTICS
Authors: KARAKATSANIS L. P. , PAVLOS G. P. , SFIRIS D. S.
Published: October 2012

In this work, we present the coexistence of self-organized criticality (SOC) and low-dimensional chaos at solar activity with results obtained by using the intermittent turbulence theory, the nonextensive q-statistics of Tsallis as well as the singular value decomposition analysis. Particularly, we show the independent dynamics of sunspot system related to the convection zone of sun and the solar flare system related to the lower solar atmosphere. However, both systems reveal nonequilibrium phase transition process from a high-dimensional intermittent turbulence state with SOC profile to a low-dimensional and chaotic intermittent turbulence state. The high-dimensional SOC state in both dynamical systems underlying the sunspot and solar flare signal is related with low q-values and low Flatness values (F) while the low-dimensional chaotic state is related with higher q-values and Flatness F-values. The higher q- and F-values reveal strong character of long-range correlations corresponding to system-wide global process while the lower q- and F-values reveal scale invariant local avalanche process. Also, the high-dimensional SOC state corresponds to second order nonequilibrium critical phase transition process while the low-dimensional chaotic state corresponds to first order nonequilibrium phase transition process. Finally, for both dynamics underlying sunspot index and solar flare, at both states of phase transition process, the multiscale and multifractal character was found to exist but with different profile or strength.
THIN FILMS: INCREASING THE COMPLEXITY OF THE MODEL
Authors: SOPHOCLEOUS C. , LEACH P. G. L.
Published: October 2012

Thin films arise in a variety of contexts. They can be between two solid surfaces in the form of a lubricant or with one surface solid and the other free as in water or oil on a road. When the surface tension is a dominant feature of the physics behind the motion, the governing evolution of partial differential equation is nonlinear and of the fourth order in the spatial derivatives. A particular form proposed by King [2001] invites generalization to create a class of equations of higher order. We examine some of the properties of this class in terms of symmetry and singularity and see that there are some open questions which require investigation using different methodologies.
BIVARIATE FRACTAL INTERPOLATION SURFACES: THEORY AND APPLICATIONS
Authors: DRAKOPOULOS VASSILEIOS , MANOUSOPOULOS POLYCHRONIS
Published: October 2012

We consider the theory and applications of bivariate fractal interpolation surfaces constructed as attractors of iterated function systems. Specifically, such kind of surfaces constructed on rectangular domains have been used to demonstrate their efficiency in computer graphics and image processing. The methodology followed is based on the labeling used for the vertices of the rectangular domain rather than on the constraints satisfied by the contractivity factors or the boundary data.
CONNECTIVITY MAPPING OF HUMAN BRAIN BY PHASE BASED EVOLUTION MAP APPROACH
Authors: ZHANG H. , BENZ H. L. , THAKOR N. V. , BEZERIANOS A.
Published: October 2012

Electrocorticography (ECoG) is recorded directly on the exposed surface of cortex, and directional connectivity mapping of ECoG signal was proved essential in the definition of epileptogenic zones, and besides, could also be one kind of command source for Brain-Machine Interface (BMI) controlling. In this study, brain connectivity was evaluated and represented by directionality index, which was computed by phase based evolution map approach (EMA). In simulation study, directionality index and its short time correction were compared. The result showed that corrected algorithm had smaller variance and was more reasonable in cascade signal ensembles study. We applied this method to hand movement related human ECoG data, the primary motor cortex is found to have higher driving during the hand open-close movement onset than the baseline. By the experiments, the method could be further used to explore the alteration of information transfer and neural circuits during movement and could be the source for BMI tasks.
DECOMPRESSION EFFECT OF PARTIAL CAPITATE SHORTENING FOR KIENBOCK'S DISEASE: A BIOMECHANICAL STUDY
Authors: Kataoka Toshiyuki , Moritomo Hisao , Omokawa Shohei , Iida Akio , Wada Takuro , Aoki Mitsuhiro
Published: October 2012

Although capitate shortening for Kienbock's disease decompresses the radiolunate joint, the distal carpal row migrates proximally postoperatively and the carpal alignment subsequently collapses. We hypothesised that partial capitate shortening, in which only the lunate facet of the capitate is shortened and the scaphocapitate joint is preserved, could achieve adequate decompression without carpal collapse. Using 11 cadavers, we measured the intra-articular pressure with an axial load on the radioscaphoid, radiolunate and ulnocarpal joints before and after resection. We also investigated whether the decompression effect is related to the presence of the lunohamate articulation. After resection, the radioscaphoid joint mean pressure was significantly increased by an average of 39%, the radiolunate joint mean pressure was significantly decreased by an average of 53% and the ulnocarpal joint mean pressure was unchanged. The radiolunate joint mean pressure significantly decreased irrespective of the lunohamate articulation status.
RADIOGRAPHIC SIGNS OF STATIC CARPAL INSTABILITY WITH DISTAL END RADIUS FRACTURES: IS CURRENT TREATMENT ADEQUATE?
Authors: Bunker D. L. J. , Pappas G. , Moradi P. , Dowd M. B.
Published: October 2012

Patients presenting with distal end radius fractures may have concomitant carpal instability due to disruption of the scapholunate ligament. This study examined the incidence of static radiographic signs of carpal instability in patients with distal radial fractures before and after fracture treatment. We performed a retrospective radiographic study of 141 patients presenting to Central Middlesex Hospital, London between January 2002–May 2004 with distal end radius fractures. We used abnormal scapholunate angle as the primary indicator of possible carpal dissociation. Abnormal scapholunate angles were noted in 39% of patients at presentation and 35% of patients after treatment with no statistically significant intra-patient variability. Persistent static radiographic signs of carpal instability are high in this subset of patients. The long-term morbidity of persistent wrist instability may be avoided by early radiological diagnosis with clinical correlation to identify carpal ligament injuries and initiate treatment that addresses both the bony and ligamentous components of the injury.
HYPERVENTILATION PROVOKES SYMPTOMS OF CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME
Authors: Aslam U. , Afzal S. , Syed Shakir
Published: October 2012

Hyperventilation causes respiratory alkalosis. The nervous system is more excitable in alkalosis. This phenomenon can be observed as paraesthesia in fingers and toes as well as around the lips in anxious patients breathing rapidly. We wanted to test this phenomenon on already irritable nerves like the median nerve in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).

We deployed 50 patients who came in to the day case unit for carpal tunnel decompression with electro-physiologically proven diagnosis. We devised a test whereby patients were made to hyperventilate under prescribed conditions and repeated Phalen's test and Tinel's sign for comparison. These were compared with a control group chosen randomly among hospital staff. 86% patients had a positive result which was just behind Phalen's test in sensitivity. It was also 100% specific as there were no false positives.

Hyperventilation is a phenomenon which provokes carpal tunnel syndrome. Its clinical value remains to be seen due to cumbersome method and probable patient non-compliance but it is a new discovery. It may be useful in other irritable-nerve-syndromes as a test to add to our available armament. It may be an additional factor or a primary reason for nocturnal paraesthesias in CTS patients.
CLINICAL OUTCOMES OF HOOK OF HAMATE FRACTURES AND USEFULNESS OF THE HOOK OF HAMATE PULL TEST
Authors: Shimizu Hiroyuki , Beppu Moroe , Matsusita Kazuhiko , Arai Takeshi , Naito Toshihito
Published: October 2012

We report the usefulness of hook of hamate pull test (HHPT), described by Wright et al. in 2010, along with therapeutic outcomes of hook of hamate fractures. Eleven patients (two with fresh fractures and nine with nonunion) were studied. The fractures were diagnosed with HHPT for recently encountered 4 patients and a definitive diagnosis was made by a carpal canal view and a computed tomography (CT) scan. Treatment involved cast immobilization for one fresh fracture case, and bone fragment removal immediately over the hook for ten others. HHPT was positive in all the four cases. Union was achieved by conservative treatment, and hypothenar pain disappeared after surgery. Patients returned to work/sports two months postoperatively. HHPT was useful for diagnosing both fresh fractures and nonunion. If HHPT is positive, CT should be performed even if the fracture is obscure on a carpal canal view.
OSSIFIED MEDIAN NERVE SCHWANNOMA: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Ikeda Kazuo , Osamura Naoki , Kasashima Satomi
Published: October 2012

A case of ossified median nerve schwannoma in the left arm, first noticed about 40 years ago is examined. Although calcification of old schwannoma is sometimes seen, new bone formation in a schwannoma is extremely rare. Since there was a strong adhesion between the tumour and the median nerve in this case, the tumour could not be enucleated easily. The tumour was excised under a surgical microscopy without any neurological deficit.
PHALANGES DEFORMITY ASSOCIATED WITH NEUROFIBROMATOSIS-1: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Hagiwara Hiroyoshi , Hagiwara Suguru , Ajiki Takashi , Hoshino Yuichi
Published: October 2012

We present a case of phalangeal deformity in a 17-year-old boy. The deformity was caused by a neurofibroma associated with neurofibromatosis type 1, affecting the left ring finger. The mass was surgically resected. Recurrence had not occurred at three-year follow-up.
VOLAR DISLOCATION AND HOOK FRACTURE OF THE HAMATE: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Simunovic F. , Jurk V. , Stark G. B. , Torio-Padron N.
Published: October 2012

A rare case of isolated traumatic hamate dislocation combined with fracture of the hamate hook is reported. Plain X-rays revealed a volar dislocation of the hamate, but computed tomography was necessary to recognise the fracture of the hamate hook. The injury was successfully treated with open reduction and internal fixation with Kirschner wires. Five weeks after the operation the Kirschner wires were removed and rehabilitation was started. At five months follow-up, the patient had minimal pain and he had resumed working. However, his grip strength was 50% compared to the uninjured side. Cone-beam computed tomography, a novel imaging modality in hand surgery, was successfully used during follow-up. We conclude that computed tomography is essential in emergency preoperative planning in this type of uncommon injuries in order to diagnose concomitant bony lesions which can otherwise be overlooked. Alternative treatment options are discussed, and literature is reviewed.
CORRECTIVE OSTEOTOMY AND LOCAL BONE GRAFTING FOR EXTRA-ARTICULAR MALUNION OF THE PROXIMAL PHALANX
Authors: Capo John T. , Shamian Ben , Lim Philip K.
Published: October 2012

Corrective osteotomies are often utilised to treat finger deformities that may occur due to a phalangeal malunion. Rotational or angular malalignment, in addition to shortening of the digit may negatively affect hand function and be aesthetically displeasing. Thorough preoperative examination of the malunion and its associated deformities is crucial in determining the type of osteotomy technique to be used. Osteotomies can create bony defects that need to be filled with bone graft or some type of graft substitute. We describe an opening wedge osteotomy with local cancellous bone graft combined with dual plating to treat a dorsal angular deformity in a proximal phalangeal malunion.
MODIFIED SINGLE-INCISION DISTAL BICEPS TENDON REPAIR USING THREE SUTURE ANCHORS: SURGICAL TECHNIQUE
Authors: Ro Du Hyun , Baek Goo Hyun , Gong Hyun Sik
Published: October 2012

Complete distal biceps tendon rupture causes a considerable loss of supination and flexion strength, and thus, surgical repair is indicated in active individuals. To reduce the risk of injury to the radial nerve in the confined space where the distal biceps inserts into the radius, several surgical methods have been reported, such as, pull out sutures, two-incision techniques, and the use of suture anchors. Here, we describe our modified single-incision distal biceps tendon repair technique using three suture anchors, which widens the bone-tendon contact surface and simplifies tensioning of the tendon attachment.
SIZE DISCREPANCY IN VESSELS DURING MICROVASCULAR ANASTOMOSIS: TWO TECHNIQUES TO OVERCOME THIS PROBLEM
Authors: Turker Tolga , Tsai Tsu-Min , Thirkannad Sunil
Published: October 2012

The problem of size discrepancy between vessels during microvascular procedures is well known. Inability to successfully overcome this problem can lead to turbulent flow at the anastomotic site with consequent thrombosis. Various techniques have been described to overcome this problem. We describe two techniques that have been used for over two decades in our institution. Both these techniques enable the surgeon to overcome far more significant size mismatches than other available techniques while still allowing for end-to-end anastomosis.
USE OF CONTINUOUS HORIZONTAL MATTRESS SUTURE TECHNIQUE IN END-TO-SIDE MICROSURGICAL ANASTOMOSIS
Authors: Başar Hakan , Erol Bülent , Tetik Cihangir
Published: October 2012

Purpose: The aim of our study was to improve the new suturing method which increases the success rate of end to side microsurgical anastomosis.

Methods: Thirty-six Sprague-Dawrey rats were randomly divided into three groups that consist of 12 rats in closed envelope method. The end-to-side microsurgical anastomosis procedures were applied by the same surgeon between left main carotid artey and left external jugular vein. The surgical evaluations were performed with anastomosis duration, leakage evaluation, vessels patency, aneurysm improvement and histological assesment.

Results: End-to-side anastomosis, which was applied with Continuous Horizontal Mattress suture, gave significantly better results in terms of leakage, anastomosis openness, aneurysm and histologic assesment. Also anastomosis duration of Continuous Horizontal suture was significantly faster than Simple Intermittent suture.

Discussion: Our study revealed that the Continuous Horizontal Mattress suture technique had the advantages of providing uninterrupted vessel flow in a shorter time, and minimal intraluminal suture material, which increase thrombosis risk. Also 'sac-mouth' effect of Continuous suture technique was prevented by Horizontal Mattress technique.
ARTHROSCOPIC DIRECT REPAIR FOR RADIAL TEAR OF THE TRIANGULAR FIBROCARTILAGE COMPLEX
Authors: Cho Chul-Hyun , Lee Young-Kuk , Sin Hong-Kwan
Published: October 2012

Although various repair techniques for Palmer type 1B lesions of the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) have been introduced, arthroscopic repair techniques for Palmer type 1D lesions are still being honed. Until recently, inside-out techniques have commonly been used to repair radial tears of the TFCC. However, that technique has the disadvantages of a requirement for an extra skin incision, pain resulting from prominent subcutaneous suture knot stacks, and peripheral nerve injury. We describe an all-arthroscopic direct-repair technique using a suture hook with 2–0 polydioxanone that is relatively simple and safe and is thus a useful alternative for radial tears of the TFCC.