bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Objective and non‐invasive evaluation of photorejuvenation effect with intense pulsed light treatment in Asian skin
Authors: Shin J‐W , Lee D‐H , Choi S‐Y , Na J‐I , Park K‐C , Youn S‐W , Huh C‐H
Published: July 2010

Background  Intense pulsed light (IPL) has been widely used for photorejuvenation. Although previous literature has shown clinical effectiveness of IPL treatments on cutaneous photoaging, the associated changes in the biophysical properties of the skin following IPL treatments have not been fully elucidated.

Objective  The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in skin biophysical properties in patients with photoaging after IPL treatments, using non‐invasive, objective skin measuring devices.

Patients and methods  A total of 26 Korean women with facial dyschromias underwent three sessions of IPL treatment at 4‐week intervals. Outcome assessments included standardized photography, global evaluation by blinded investigators, patients’ self‐assessment and objective measurements of colour (Mexameter MX18, Chromatometer), elasticity (Cutometer), roughness (Visiometer), sebum (Sebumeter) and skin hydration (Corneometer).

Results  Intense pulsed light treatments produced a 15% decrease in the size of representative pigmented lesions (P < 0.05). Patients’ self‐assessment revealed that 84% and 58% of subjects considered their pigmented lesions and wrinkles were improved respectively. Objective colorimetric measurement demonstrated significant improvements following IPL treatments that were most remarkable after one session of IPL. Moreover, skin elasticity showed significant improvements at the end of the study. Skin wrinkles as measured using Visiometer showed a mild improvement without statistical significance. Sebum secretion and water content of skin remained unchanged.

Conclusions  Intense pulsed light provided significant improvement in the appearance of facial pigmented lesions in Korean patients. These effects appeared to be more remarkable in improving pigmentation, skin tone and elasticity.
Molecular traits controlling host range and adaptation to plants in Ralstonia solanacearum
Authors: Genin Stéphane
Published: July 2010

Ralstonia solanacearum is regarded as one of the world’s most important bacterial plant pathogens because of its aggressiveness, large host range, broad geographical distribution and long persistence in soil and water environments. This root pathogen is an attractive model to investigate the question of host adaptation as it exhibits a remarkably broad host range, being able to infect numerous plant species belonging to different botanical families. Several effector proteins transiting through the type III secretion system have been shown to restrict or extend specifically the host range of the bacterium. Recent investigations on the mechanisms that coordinate changes in gene expression during the passage between saprophytism and life within host tissues have allowed the identification of other molecular determinants implicated in the adaptation of R. solanacearum to its hosts and pathogenesis. Among these determinants are genes involved in chemotaxis, secondary metabolic pathways and the detoxification of various antimicrobial compounds, and genes directing the biosynthesis of phytohormones or adherence factors. The regulation of many of these genes is coordinated by the master pathogenicity regulator HrpG. These hrpG‐dependent genes control major steps during the interaction with plant cells, and probably determine the ecological behaviour of the microorganism, being required for the establishment of pathogenesis or mutualism.
The use of FLP‐mediated recombination for the functional analysis of an effector gene family in the biotrophic smut fungus Ustilago maydis
Authors: Khrunyk Yuliya , Münch Karin , Schipper Kerstin , Lupas Andrei N. , Kahmann Regine
Published: July 2010

Featured paper: See Editorial p877
The role of a maternity waiting area (MWA) in reducing maternal mortality and stillbirths in high‐risk women in rural Ethiopia
Authors: Kelly J , Kohls E , Poovan P , Schiffer R , Redito A , Winter H , MacArthur C
Published: July 2010

Please cite this paper as: Kelly J, Kohls E, Poovan P, Schiffer R, Redito A, Winter H, MacArthur C. The role of a maternity waiting area (MWA) in reducing maternal mortality and stillbirths in high‐risk women in rural Ethiopia. BJOG 2010;117:1377–1383.

Objective  To describe maternal mortality and stillbirth rates among women admitted via a maternity waiting area (MWA) and women admitted directly to the same hospital (non‐MWA) over a 22‐year period.

Design  Retrospective cohort study.

Setting  Hospital in rural Ethiopia, which provided comprehensive emergency obstetric care and has an established MWA.

Population  All women admitted for delivery between 1987 and 2008.

Methods  Data on maternal deaths, stillbirths, caesarean section and uterine rupture were abstracted from routine hospital records. Sociodemographic characteristics, antenatal care and other data were collected for 2008 only. Rates and 95% confidence intervals were calculated for maternal mortality and stillbirth.

Main outcome measures  Maternal mortality and stillbirth.

Results  There were 24 148 deliveries over the study period, 6805 admitted via MWA and 17 343 admitted directly. Maternal mortality was 89.9 per 100 000 live births (95% CI, 41.1–195.2) for MWA women and 1333.1 per 100 000 live births (95% CI, 1156.2–1536.7) for non‐MWA women; stillbirth rates were 17.6 per 1000 births (95% CI, 14.8–21.0) and 191.2 per 1000 births (95% CI, 185.4–197.1), respectively; 38.5% of MWA women were delivered by caesarean section compared with 20.3% of non‐MWA women, and none had uterine rupture, compared with 5.8% in the non‐MWA group. For the 1714 women admitted in 2008, relatively small differences in sociodemographic characteristics, distance and antenatal care uptake were found between groups.

Conclusions  Maternal mortality and stillbirth rates were substantially lower in women admitted via MWA. It is likely that at least part of this difference is accounted for by the timely and appropriate obstetric management of women using this facility.
Fetoscopic laser coagulation for severe twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome: factors influencing perinatal outcome, learning curve of the procedure and lessons for new centres
Authors: Morris RK , Selman TJ , Harbidge A , Martin WL , Kilby MD
Published: July 2010

Please cite this paper as: Morris R, Selman T, Harbidge A, Martin W, Kilby M. Fetoscopic laser coagulation for severe twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome: factors influencing perinatal outcome, learning curve of the procedure and lessons for new centres. BJOG 2010;117:1350–1357.

Objective  To evaluate the effects of operator experience on perinatal outcome in a single centre.

Design  Prospective consecutive cohort study.

Setting  Regional tertiary referral Fetal Medicine Centre in the UK.

Population  Pregnant women with monochorionic twin pregnancies complicated by severe twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) (at ≤26 completed weeks of gestatiuon) treated by fetoscopic laser coagulation (FLC) between October 2004 and November 2009.

Methods  Pregnancy characteristics and outcomes were collected. Logistic regression analysis was employed to determine the effect of a priori defined variables on outcome.

Main outcome measure  Perinatal survival (survival to 28 days or beyond) for one or more twins.

Results  There were 164 consecutive sets of monochorionic twins. The median gestational age (GA) at FLC was 20.4 weeks (interquartile range 18–22.1 weeks), the median interval from FLC to delivery was 88.5 days (interquartile range 53–101 days) and the median GA at delivery was 33.2 weeks (interquartile range 29.7–34.9 weeks). The overall survival was 62%; perinatal survival of one or more twins was 85%. These outcomes improved after about 61 procedures were performed, and after about 3.4 years of experience. Univariate logistic regression analysis indicated that Quintero stage‐IV disease decreased (OR 0.26; 95% CI 0.10–0.69) and prolongation of GA at delivery increased the survival of the twins (OR 1.34; 95% CI 1.12–1.60) (P < 0.01). Increasing experience of the procedure by operator led to a significant increase in perinatal survival (P < 0.01; OR 4.59; 95% CI 1.84–11.44). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that only GA at delivery increased survival overall (OR 1.34; 95% CI 1.12–1.60; P = 0.01).

Conclusions  These data indicate that both relatively large numbers treated and experience with FLC minimises any adverse outcome in monochorionic pregnancies with severe TTTS.
INCREASED CONCENTRATIONS OF GLYCINE IN HYPOXANTHINE‐GUANINE PHOSPHORIBOSYLTRANSFERASE‐DEFICIENT MOUSE NEUROBLASTOMA CELLS1
Authors: Skaper S. D. , Seegmiller J. E.
Published: July 2010

—The intracellular concentrations of a number of amino acids were compared in a parental line of mouse neuroblastoma cells, a line selected for gross deficiency of the enzyme hypoxanthine‐guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HGPRT) and in a revertant line containing the enzyme selected from the deficient line. Most prominent was the increased concentration of free glycine and to a lesser extent glutamic acid in enzyme‐deficient cells. The increase in glycine was eliminated after restoration of the HGPRT activity.
SUBCELLULAR DISTRIBUTION OF d‐AMINO ACID OXIDASE AND CATALASE IN RAT BRAIN
Authors: Gaunt G. L. , de Duve C.
Published: July 2010

—Rat brain d‐amino acid oxidase was found to be confined to the hindbrain, distributed more or less equally between cerebellum and medulla. Histochemical staining showed the enzyme to be localized largely in the molecular layer of the cerebellum. After fractionation by means of several distinct density gradient centrifugation procedures exploiting differences in sedimentation coefficient or in density or in both, the enzyme was found to be entirely or almost entirely associated with cytoplasmic particles with a median diameter of the order of 0·2 μm, and a median equilibrium density in aqueous sucrose of 1·18. Comparison with the behavior of cytochrome oxidase and of N‐acetyl‐β‐glucosaminidase indicates that these particles are not mitochondria and are unlikely to be lysosomes. They also differ significantly from the bulk of the catalase‐containing particles, which on an average appear to be somewhat smaller. The possibility that they might contain some catalase activity, and thereby qualify as ‘peroxisomes’, can however not be excluded. In any case, they differ profoundly from the peroxisomes of liver or kidney.
CONTROL OF PYRUVATE AND β‐HYDROXYBUTYRATE UTILIZATION IN RAT BRAIN MITOCHONDRIA AND ITS RELEVANCE TO PHENYLKETONURIA AND MAPLE SYRUP URINE DISEASE
Authors: Land J. M. , Mowbray J. , Clark J. B.
Published: July 2010

—The effects of the amino acids (phenylalanine, valine, leucine and isoleucine) which accumulate in phenylketonuria (PKU) and maple syrup urine disease (MSUD), and their analogue α‐keto acids (phenylpyruvate, α‐keto isovalerate, α‐keto isocaproate, α‐keto‐β‐Me valerate) have been studied on rat brain mitochondrial respiration. Both phenylpyruvate and α‐keto isocaproate specifically inhibited the oxidation of pyruvate plus malate and β‐hydroxybutyrate plus malate by rat brain mitochondria in the presence of ADP. However, no inhibitory effects of similar concentrations of phenylpyruvate or α‐keto isocaproate were observed on the isolated semipurified pyruvate or β‐hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenases from rat brain mitochondria. The transport of pyruvate and β‐hydroxybutyrate across the brain mitochondrial membrane was studied by both uptake and exchange of radioactively labelled substrates. Both these processes were inhibited by phenylpyruvate and α‐ketoisocaproate. The results are interpreted as providing evidence for both pyruvate and β‐hydroxybutyrate translocases across the brain mitochondrial membrane, and that the inhibition of these systems by phenylpyruvate and α‐keto isocaproate may be important lesions in phenylketonuria and maple syrup urine disease respectively.
Acylation of Rat Brain Myelin Proteolipid Protein with Different Fatty Acids
Authors: Bizzozero Oscar A. , McGarry James F. , Lees Marjorie B.
Published: July 2010

Abstract: The acylation of rat brain proteolipid protein (PLP) with tritiated palmitic, oleic, and myristic acids was studied in vivo and in vitro and compared with the acylation of lipids. Twenty‐four hours after intracranial injection of [3H]myristic acid, only 16% of the PLP‐bound label appeared as myristic acid, with 66% as palmitic, 9% as stearic, and 6% as oleic acid, whereas >63% of the label in total or myelin phospholipid was in the form of myristic acid. In contrast, after labelling with [3H]palmitic or oleic acids, 75% and 86%, respectively, of the radioactivity in PLP remained in the original form. When brain tissue slices were incubated for short periods of time, the incorporation of palmitic and oleic acids into PLP exceeded that of myristic acid by a factor of 8. In both systems and with all precursors studied, the label associated with PLP was shown to be in ester linkage. The results suggest a preferential acylation of PLP with palmitic and oleic acids as compared with myristic acid. This is consistent with the fatty acid composition of the isolated PLP.
Changes in Insulin Binding to Developing Embryonic Chick Neural Retina Cells
Authors: Peterson Scott W. , Kyriakis John M. , Hausman Robert E.
Published: July 2010

Abstract: Specific cell surface insulin binding to embryonic chick neural retina cells has been demonstrated in vivo. Kinetics of insulin binding as well as hormonal specificity were similar to those reported for other vertebrate cells and tissues, both neural and nonneural. When surface insulin binding to retinal cells was studied as a function of embryonic age, a developmental relationship was observed. Scatchard analysis revealed that the number of cell surface insulin receptors decreased approximately 75% between days 10 and 16 of embryonic development. Receptor affinities remained fairly constant for this period.
Neuropeptide‐Metabolizing Peptidases in Neuro‐2a Neuroblastoma and C6 Glioma Cells
Authors: Del Bel Elaine A. , Gambarini Angelo G. , Martins Antonio R.
Published: July 2010

Abstract: Mouse Neuro‐2a neuroblastoma and rat C6 glioma cloned cells were screened for neuropeptide‐metabolizing peptidases using a kininase bioassay combined with a time‐course bradykinin‐product analysis, and a fluorimetnc assay for prolyl endopeptidase. The complementary peptide products Arg1→ Phe5/Ser6→ Arg9 and Arg1→ Pro7/Phe8‐Arg9 were released during bradykinin (Arg1‐Pro2‐Pro3‐Gly4‐Phe5‐Ser6‐Pro7‐Phe8‐Arg9) inactivation by homogenates of Neuro‐2a and C6 cells. The 1:1 stoichiometry of the complementary fragments and their high yields, at 10% bradykinin inactivation, demonstrated the sites of hydrolysis. The initial rate of Phe5‐Ser6 bond cleavage was six‐fold higher than that of the Pro7‐Phe8 bond. These sites of cleavage can be attributed to enzymes similar to endqpeptidase A (Phe5‐Ser6) and prolyl endopeptidase (Pro7‐Phe8) on the basis of the specificity and sensitivity to inhibitors of the kininase activity in Neuro‐2a and C6 cell homogenates. Kininase and prolyl endopeptidase specific activities (fmol/min/cell) were 10.5 and 12.4 for Neuro‐2a, and 1.5 and 2 for C6 homogenate, respectively. The recovery of kininase activity was 2.2‐fold higher in the particulate than in the soluble (105,000 g for 1 h) neuronal fraction, whereas the amount of prolyl endopeptidase activity was about the same in both fractions. Kininase and prolyl endopeptidase activities in C6 cells were recovered mostly in the soluble fraction. Prolyl endopeptidase specific activity decreased 10‐fold in serum‐starved Neuro‐2a cultured cells, with no change in activity in similarly treated C6 cells. In contrast, kininase specific activity in both cell types was essentially unaffected on serum‐deprivationinduced differentiation.
Elevated Levels of Retinal Neurofilament mRNA Accompany Optic Nerve Regeneration
Authors: Tesser Paul , Jones Paul S. , Schechter Nisson
Published: July 2010

Abstract RNA isolated from goldfish retinas before and during optic nerve regeneration, when translated in vitro, directed the synthesis of neurofilament proteins that are normally found in high levels in the optic nerve. The major neurofilament proteins of the goldfish optic nerve comprise a group of four isoelectric variants of molecular weight 58,000 (58K) which we have identified previously as ON1‐ON4. The levels of ON1 and ON2 within the optic nerve had been shown to decrease shortly after optic nerve crush and then increase to precrush levels during the regeneration process. Employing two‐dimensional electrophoretic analysis of in vitro translation products and immunoprecipitations with antibodies specific for the ON proteins and an anti‐intermediate filament monoclonal antibody, we show that ON1 and ON2 are encoded by mRNA synthesized in the retinas. The synthesis of ON3 and ON4 by retina RNA was undetected. This confirms data from previous ex vivo experiments that indicated that ON1 and ON2 are of neuronal origin whereas ON3 and ON4 are nonneuronal. ON1 and ON2 synthesis increases dramatically during optic nerve regeneration to levels 10‐ and 30‐fold over precrush levels, respectively. In addition to ON, and ON2, the synthesis of a previously unidentified 52K protein is observed at relatively high levels 20 and 32 days after optic nerve crush, but is unobserved before regeneration. Thus, optic nerve regeneration can be correlated with specific changes in intermediate filament gene expression within the retina.
Changes of Neurotransmitter Systems in Chronic Relapsing Experimental Allergic Encephalomyelitis in Rat Brain and Spinal Cord
Authors: Krenger Werner , Honegger Conrad Georg , Feurer Camille , Cammisuli Salvatore
Published: July 2010

Abstract Catecholamine and indoleamine neurotransmitters, together with some of their precursors and metabolites, were determined using HPLC in three brain and two spinal cord regions of Lewis rats with chronic relapsing allergic encephalomyelitis and of control rats injected with complete Freund's adjuvant. Three attacks and two recovery phases were investigated. Changes are found mainly in the spinal cord. In the lumbosacral region both 5‐hydroxytryptamine and noradrenaline are reduced during the entire course of the disease, whereas in the craniothoracal region 5‐hydroxytryptamine is unchanged and only noradrenaline is reduced during the attacks, returning to normal during the first recovery. The precursors tyrosine and tryptophan are greatly elevated during the first two attacks in both regions. The 5‐hydroxytryptamine turnover marker 5‐hydroxyindoleacetic acid is increased in the first attack in both regions, then it decreases in the later stages, indicating destruction of nerve fibers. On the fourth and seventh days after inoculation values are generally not significantly different from controls in all regions. The possible correlation of neurochemical results with neurological signs is discussed.
Polyphosphoinositides as a Probable Source of Brain Free Fatty Acids Accumulated at the Onset of Ischemia
Authors: Ikeda Masuhiro , Yoshida Shinichi , Busto Raul , Santiso Mercedes , Ginsberg Myron D.
Published: July 2010

The quantitative relationship between phos‐phoinositides and free fatty acids (FFAs) in brain ischemia was studied by measuring contents of individual fatty acids in phosphatidylinositol 4,5‐bisphosphate (PIP2), phosphatidylinositol 4‐phosphate (PIP), phosphatidylinositol (PI), phosphatidic acid (PA), diacylglycerol (DAG), and the FFA pool. Various periods of complete ischemia (1, 3, 10, and 30 min) were produced by decapitation. Ischemia of 1‐3 min caused rapid decreases in PIP2 and PIP content together with preferential production of stearic and arachidonic acids in the DAG and FFA pools. The decrement in levels of these fatty acid residues in polyphosphoinositides was sufficient to account for their increment in levels in the enlarged DAG and FFA pools. After 10 min of ischemia, levels of PIP2, PIP, and DAG approached plateau values, but levels of all FFAs continued to increase. The increases in content of DAG and FFAs at later ischemic periods could not be accounted for by the decreases in content of PIP2 and PIP. PI and PA levels showed only transient and subtle changes. These results indicate that, at the onset of ischemia, phosphodiesteric cleavage of PIP2 and PIP and subsequent deacylation by lipases are primarily responsible for the preferential increase in levels of free stearic and arachidonic acids and that, later, hydrolysis of other phospholipids plays a major role in the continuous accumulation of FFAs.
Biochemical Changes in Central Nervous System Membranes in Experimental Allergic Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Salvati Serafina , D'Urso Donatella , Devirgiliis Laura Conti , Crescenzi Giovanni Serlupi
Published: July 2010

Biochemical and morphological studies of myelin subtractions were undertaken on Lewis rats during the early stage of the development of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE). Myelin subfractions, obtained by sucrose density gradient centrifugation at 10 days post‐induction, were subjected to sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and assayed for 2′:3′‐cyclic nucleotide 3′‐phosphodiesterase (CNPase) activity. Aliquots were processed for electron microscopic analysis. When comparing the myelin sub‐fractions of EAE‐affected animals with those of controls, differences were observed only in the light fractions, i.e., a decrease in the specific activity of CNPase and in the percentage of basic proteins relative to the total proteins of the fraction. This decrease was also evident in the basic protein/proteolipid protein ratio which is frequently used in the literature. In addition, electron microscopic observations demonstrated strong differences in the morphology of the same fraction. These findings suggest that the light fraction is the most sensitive in the early stages of the disease and must play a key role in demyelinating processes.
Activation of Glutamate Apodecarboxylase by Succinic Semialdehyde and Pyridoxamine 5′‐Phosphate
Authors: Porter Terence G. , Martin Sandra B. , Martin David L.
Published: July 2010

Abstract: Glutamate apodecarboxylase was activated by incubation with succinic semialdehyde and pyridoxamine 5′‐phosphate. Activation required both compounds and was highly selective for succinic semialdehyde. Of 18 analogs tested, only glyoxylate, pyruvate, oxaloacetate, and 2‐oxoglutarate activated the apoenzyme significantly, but much higher concentrations of these compounds than of succinic semialdehyde were required. In the presence of pyridoxamine 5′‐phosphate, the concentration of succinic semialdehyde giving half‐maximal activation of apoenzyme was 7 μM. In contrast, the Ki for succinic semialdehyde as a competitive inhibitor of glutamate de‐carboxylation was 1.2 mM, indicating that apoenzyme with bound pyridoxamine 5′‐phosphate has a much higher affinity for succinic semialdehyde than does holoenzyme. The concentration of pyridoxamine 5′‐phosphate giving half‐maximal activation was 17 μM, which is more than an order of magnitude greater than the corresponding value for pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate.
Dephosphorylation of Neurofilaments by Exogenous Phosphatases Has No Effect on Reassembly of Subunits
Authors: Georges Elias , Lefebvre Suzie , Mushynski Walter E.
Published: July 2010

Abstract: Exhaustive in vitro dephosphorylation of porcine neurofilaments (NFs) by alkaline or acid phospha‐tase did not cause a dissociation of the 210–kD (NF‐H), 160–kD (NF‐M), or 70–kD (NF‐L) subunits and had no effect on the reassembly of NFs from urea or guanidine solution. Electron microscopy revealed that the NFs reassembled from isolated or dephosphorylated subunits had similar morphologies. Phosphatase treatment caused significant increases in the mobilities of NF‐M and NF‐H on sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, suggesting that the subunits underwent marked conformational changes after dephosphorylation. Chemical phosphate analysis showed that as isolated NF‐H, NF‐M, and NF‐L contained about 22, 11, and 3 mol phosphate/mol polypeptide, respectively. The corresponding values for the three subunits from alkaline phosphatase‐treated NFs were about 8, 6, and 2 mol phosphate/mol polypeptide, respectively. These results indicate the occurrence of a class of phosphate moieties that is not accessible to exogenous phosphatases.
Mechanism of Apparent Transcription Inhibition by Methyl Mercury in Cerebellar Neurons
Authors: Sarafian Theodore , Verity M. Anthony
Published: July 2010

Abstract: We have investigated the mechanism of inhibition of RNA synthesis by methyl mercury (MeHg) in isolated neonatal rat cerebellar cells. Each of the three component steps involved in the incorporation of exogenous [3H]uridine into cellular RNA was examined separately in whole‐cell and/or subcellular preparations. Nuclear RNA polymerase activity was measured in preparations containing both free nuclei and whole cells. Incorporation of [3H]UTP into nuclear RNA was found to be unimpaired at concentrations of MeHg that inhibited whole‐cell incorporation of [3H]uridine by > 75%. Cellular uptake of [3H]uridine was assayed in cerebellar cells treated with KCN to deplete ATP levels and block subsequent phosphorylation reactions of transported uridine. Uptake activity under these conditions was unaffected by MeHg. Measurement of intracellular phosphorylation of [3H]uridine indicated that inhibition of this activity closely paralleled that of RNA synthesis. Quantitation of individual uridine nucleotides by polyethyleneimine‐cellulose TLC revealed reduced levels of UTP and UDP whereas levels of UMP were elevated, suggesting that impairment of phosphorylation was not the result of cellular ATP depletion but, more likely, a direct effect on phosphouridine kinase enzymes. This mechanism of MeHg‐induced inhibition of RNA synthesis was confirmed by assays of uridine phosphorylation using cell‐free extracts in which exogenous ATP was supplied.
Studies on Analogues of Succinic Semialdehyde as Substrates for Succinate Semialdehyde Dehydrogenase from Rat Brain
Authors: Manzocchi Ada , Biondi Pierantonio , Secch Camillo , Santaniello Enzo
Published: July 2010

The methyl ester of succinic semialdehyde (SSA) was examined as a substrate for succinate semialdehyde dehydrogenase (SSADH) from rat brain. It was found that the ester can be oxidized by the enzyme. Values of Km for SSA‐Me were higher than for those for SSA, and for this substrate the enzyme showed a substrate‐dependent inhibition. This finding suggests that the carboxylate group of SSA is not essential in the process of inhibition of SSADH by the substrate. Cyclopropyl analogues of SSA, cis‐ and trans‐1‐formyl‐cyclopropan‐2‐carboxylic acids, were also individually tested as substrates of SSADH. Only the trans isomer was found to be oxidized to the corresponding dicarboxylic acid; it inhibited the enzyme in the same range of concentrations as SSA. The above data suggest that, as for γ‐aminobutyric acid, SSA is present in an unfolded, transoid conformation at the active site of SSADH.
Isolation and Characterization of a Novel cDNA Which Identifies Both Neural‐Specific and Ubiquitously Expressed GSα mRNAs
Authors: Habecker Beth A. , Martin Jennifer M. , Nathanson Neil M.
Published: July 2010

Abstract: Heterotrimeric G proteins consisting of α, β, and γ subunits couple sensory, hormone, and neurotransmit‐ ter receptors to intracellular and transmembrane effectors. Several splicing variants of the Gs (the G protein that stimulates adenylyl cyclase) α subunit (GSα) have been described. Some of these couple receptors to stimulation of adenylyl cyclase and Ca2+ channels, whereas others encode truncated proteins whose functions are not currently defined. We describe a 1321N1 human astrocytoma cDNA clone for a novel GSα isoform isolated from astrocytoma cells (Gastro) that is identical to GSα‐1 with the exception of a novel 5’ sequence extending into the previously described exon 1 of GSα, a single base change, and an alternative polyadenylation site. Analysis by northern blotting and reverse transcription/PCR confirms the presence of an mRNA corresponding to this cDNA in astrocytoma cells. Additional northern analysis indicates that Gastro recognizes two novel GSα mRNAs in the rat: a 2.0‐kb mRNA expressed only in neural and neuroendocrine tissues and a 1.8‐kb mRNA that is ubiquitously expressed. Functional analysis of Gastro is complicated by the apparent insertion of alphoid satellite DNA into the transcription unit. The resulting cDNA encodes a truncated protein that may be translated from the methionine in exon 2 as previously described.
Cholinergic Neuron‐Specific Expression of the Human Choline Acetyltransferase Gene Is Controlled by Silencer Elements
Authors: Li Yi‐Ping , Baskin Fred , Davis Richard , Hersh Louis B.
Published: July 2010

Abstract: Choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) is specifically expressed in Cholinergic neurons. To identify control mechanisms regulating the cell‐specific expression of the gene encoding ChAT, transient expression of the luciferase gene driven by human ChAT gene 5’ flanking sequences was compared in cholinergic and noncholinergic cell lines. Analysis of the gene indicated the presence of two regulatory elements with selective silencing activity. These elements, located between nucleotides −2043 to −3347 and nucleotides −3347 to −6550, act cooperatively to repress promoter activity > 10‐fold in a human adrenergic neuroblastoma cell line, SHSY5Y, and a human osteosarcoma cell line, 143 TK, while exhibiting less than a two‐fold effect in Cholinergic cell lines. Deletion of either nucleotides −2043 to −3347 or nucleotides −3348 to −6550 reduced cell‐specific repression by approximately half. Such differential repression appears to be responsible for the selective expression of the ChAT component of the Cholinergic phenotype.
Modulation of nerve growth factor‐induced activation of MAP kinase in PC12 cells by inhibitors of nitric oxide synthase
Authors: Kalisch Bettina E. , Demeris C. Shaun , Ishak Margaret , Rylett R. Jane
Published: July 2010

Nerve growth factor (NGF) increases expression of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) isozymes leading to enhanced production of nitric oxide (NO). NOS inhibitors attenuate NGF‐mediated increases in cholinergic gene expression and neurite outgrowth. Mechanisms underlying this are unknown, but the mitogen‐activated protein (MAP) kinase pathway plays an important role in NGF signaling. Like NGF, NO donors activate Ras leading to phosphorylation of MAP kinase. The present study investigated the role of NO in NGF‐mediated activation of MAP kinase in PC12 cells. Cells were treated with 50 ng/mL NGF to establish the temporal pattern for rapid and sustained activation phases of MAP kinase kinase (MEK)‐1/2 and p42/p44‐MAP kinase. Subsequently, cells were pretreated with NOS inhibitors Nω‐nitro‐L‐arginine methylester and s‐methylisothiourea and exposed to NGF for up to 24 h. NGF‐induced activation of MEK‐1/2 and p42/p44‐MAP kinase was not dependent on NO, but sustained phosphorylation of MAP kinase was modulated by NO. This modulation did not occur at the level of Ras‐Raf‐MEK signaling or require activation of cGMP/PKG pathway. NOS inhibitors did not affect NGF‐mediated phosphorylation of MEK. Expression of constitutively active‐MEKK1 in cells led to phosphorylation of p42/p44‐MAP kinase and robust neurite outgrowth; constitutively active‐MKK1 also caused differentiation with neurite extension. NOS inhibitor treatment of cells expressing constitutively active kinases did not affect MAP kinase activation, but neurite outgrowth was attenuated. NOS inhibitors did not alter NGF‐mediated nuclear translocation of phospho‐MAP kinase, but phosphorylated kinases disappeared more rapidly from NOS inhibitor‐treated cells suggesting greater phosphatase activity and termination of sustained activation of MAP kinase.
A missense mutation (L166P) in DJ‐1, linked to familial Parkinson's disease, confers reduced protein stability and impairs homo‐oligomerization
Authors: Moore Darren J. , Zhang Li , Dawson Ted M. , Dawson Valina L.
Published: July 2010

The identification of genetic mutations responsible for rare familial forms of Parkinson's disease (PD) have provided tremendous insight into the molecular pathogenesis of this disorder. Mutations in the DJ‐1 gene cause autosomal recessive early onset PD in two European families. A Dutch kindred displays a large homozygous genomic deletion encompassing exons 1–5 of the DJ‐1 gene, whereas an Italian kindred harbors a single homozygous L166P missense mutation. A homozygous M26I missense mutation was also recently reported in an Ashkenazi Jewish patient with early onset PD. Mutations in DJ‐1 are predicted to be loss of function. The recent determination of the crystal structure of human DJ‐1 demonstrates that it exists in a homo‐dimeric form in vitro, whereas the L166P mutant exists only as a monomer. Here, we examine the in vivo effects of the pathogenic L166P and M26I mutations on the properties of DJ‐1 in cell culture. We report that the L166P mutation confers markedly reduced protein stability to DJ‐1, which results from enhanced degradation by the 20S/26S proteasome but not from a loss of mRNA expression. Furthermore, the L166P mutant protein exhibits an impaired ability to self‐interact to form homo‐oligomers. In contrast, the M26I mutation does not appear to adversely affect either protein stability, turnover by the proteasome, or the capacity of DJ‐1 to form homo‐oligomers. These properties of the L166P mutation may contribute to the loss of normal DJ‐1 function and are likely to be the underlying cause of early onset PD in affected members of the Italian kindred.
Differential enantioselective effects of pentyl‐4‐yn‐valproate on spatial learning in the rat, and neurite outgrowth and cyclin D3 expression in vitro
Authors: D. O'Loinsigh Eamon , Gherardini Lisa M. , Gallagher Helen C. , Foley Andrew G. , Murphy Keith J. , Regan Ciaran M.
Published: July 2010

Previously, we demonstrated the racemic form of the valproate (VPA) analogue, 2‐n‐pentyl‐4‐pentynoic acid ([±]pentyl‐4‐yn‐VPA), to be neuritogenic in vitro and to enhance cognition in vivo. To determine the enantioselectivity of these effects, the racemate and purified enantiomers of [±]pentyl‐4‐yn‐VPA (84 mg/kg, i.p.) were administered to rodents 20 min prior to multi‐session water maze training. The racemate and R‐enantiomer significantly reduced escape latencies during water maze learning and enhanced its recall in a probe trial 3 days later. In contrast, S‐pentyl‐4‐yn‐VPA did not influence these behavioural parameters. The enantiomer‐specific effects of [±]pentyl‐4‐yn‐VPA were further discriminated in vitro using neuro 2A neuroblastoma and C6 glioma cell lines. In neuro 2A, the S‐enantiomer induced profound neurite outgrowth at concentrations up to 0.5 mm, with the R‐enantiomer and racemate being less neuritogenic. Immunoblot analysis of cyclin D3 expression in C6 glioma indicated the racemate and S‐pentyl‐4‐yn‐VPA to induce dose‐dependent up‐regulation of this protein, similar to that associated with G1‐phase cell cycle arrest mediated by VPA, whereas R‐pentyl‐4‐yn‐VPA was without effect. These results indicate that the cognition‐enhancing effects of pentyl‐4‐yn‐VPA are due to the actions of the R‐enantiomer, and that cyclin D3 up‐regulation and associated anti‐proliferative and pro‐differentiative actions are predominantly associated with the S‐enantiomer.
Some Experiments on the Overdyeing of Nylon
Authors: O‘briain C. D. , Peters R. H.
Published: July 2010

Rate‐of‐dyeing curves have been measured for nylon dyed under very acid conditions (pH ca. 1.5). The curve falls into two parts; in the initial stages the uptake is rapid, and this is followed by a slow increase in dye concentration which does not reach a maximum. By stripping the dye from the fibre and redyeing under conditions of high pH, the number of free amine ends has been estimated. From the results it has been shown that during the second part of the rate‐of‐dyeing curves hydrolysis occurs, giving an increased number of amine groups. The amount of dye taken up at the low pH values is, how‐ ever, far in excess of that required to saturate the amine group and must be accounted for by “amide group” dyeing. Viscosities have also been used to confirm the hydrolysis.

The picture of the dyeing process at low pH is, therefore, initial absorption of dye on to sites provided by the peptide groups either as the free dye acid or by absorption of the hydrogen ions in the dyebath followed by the dye anion. Simultaneous with the absorption is a slow but definite hydrolysis of the nylon molecules with consequent degradation of the fibre.
A Study of Certain Natural Dyes I‐The Adsorption of Brazilwood and Logwood Colouring Matters by Fibres
Authors: Arshid F. M. , Desai J. N. , Duff D. J. , Giles C. H. , Jain S. K. , Macnral I. R.
Published: July 2010

The adsorption properties of hæmatein, the colouring matter from logwood, and its leueo compound, haEmatoxylin, together with brazilein, the colouring matter from brazilwood, have been studied on several types of fibre. Brazilein and haEmatein are weak acids and are adsorbed by wool or nylon appreciably only from acid solutions, probably by hydrogen bonding between the fibre and the undissociated hæmatein or brazilein molecules, as well as by acid‐base combination with the charged amino groups in the fibre. Very high adsorption values observed at about pH 1.0 may be indicative of some hydrolytic breakdown of the fibre. In solutions less acid than about pH 7 adsorption is very low on account of the mutual repulsion between the colouring matter anions and the negatively charged fibre.

HaEmatoxylin is a tetrahydric phenol and has the very unusual property, in a single substance, of appreciable substantivity for cellulose as well as for cellulose acetate, nylon, and protein fibres. A study of the apparent heat of adsorption, of the nature of the isotherms, and of the affinities leads to the conclusion that its adsorption by cellulose acetate, nylon, and wool is most probably attributable to the formation of hydrogen bonds with the fibre, those formed by nylon and wool being stronger than those formed by cellulose acetate.

The adsorption by cellulose, studied by the same means, appears to be of a different nature and to be attributable to weaker forces, probably van der Waals attraction. Since hæmatoxylin, with four strong hydrogen‐bonding groups, does not seem to form hydrogen bonds with cellulose in water, it is unlikely that any dyes can do so, and their adsorption may therefore be due to physical attraction and not to hydrogen bonding.

Some evidence is given that hæmatoxylin may act as a cross‐linking agent between the peptide groups in the molecular chains of proteins.

Analytical methods for the colouring matters are evaluated. Refractometry was used in determining the adsorption of haEmatoxylin. A simple and effective method of packing loose fibres for adsorption tests is described.
Bleaching Jute with Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Chatterjee H. , Pal K. B.
Published: July 2010

A single‐bath process of bleaching jute with hydrogen peroxide is described with particular reference to loss of weight, lignin, and breaking strength as well as the colour of the bleached material and the composition of the residual lignin. The influence of variablesndashe.g. reaction temperature, time, bleach concentration, liquor ratio, pH, bleachability with peroxide compared with chloritendashhas been studied.

Jute may be bleached white with peroxide with only a small loss of lignin, and the composition of its residual lignin remains more or less unchanged. It is believed that the point of attack by peroxide is a phenolic hydroxyl group and that the colour change is mainly due to an unknown structural modification of native lignin. A one‐volume bath of peroxide containing a stabiliser under alkaline conditions, and a 1% solution of acidified chlorite at a liquor ratio of 10: 1 and a temperature of 60–70d̀c., are suitable for bleaching jute. In both cases over 70% of the yarn strength can be maintained in the fully wet condition. The tendency of the bleached material to become yellow on storage is much less pronounced with peroxide than with hypochlorite or chlorite. The quality of such a yarn is unimpaired by long storage.
Measurement of Damage in Wool Materials IV—A Modification of the Krais‐Markert‐Viertel (K.M.V.) Test— The Supercontraction of Keratin Fibres in Solutions of Caustic Potash
Authors: Bell J. W. , Veldsman D. P. , Whewell C. S.
Published: July 2010

Dimensional changes of wool fibres when immersed in 20% caustic potash solution are studied and data are given showing the effects of various chemical pretreatments on the supercontraction and the time of recovery from supercontraction.
The Dyeing of Wool by Solvent‐assisted Processes
Authors: Beal W. , Dickinson K. , Bellhouse E.
Published: July 2010

The influence of solvents, in particular benzyl alcohol, on the normal processes of wool dyeing and printing is reviewed in detail. The significance of the effect and the methods of utilising it are discussed. Consideration is given to the practical and commercial aspects of solvent‐assisted techniques for dyeing and printing wool.
The Interaction between some Acid Wool Dyes and Nonyl Phenol‐Ethylene Oxide Derivatives
Authors: Craven B. R. , Datyner A.
Published: July 2010

Acid wool dyes show individual differences in behaviour towards non‐ionic surfactants. Dyeing experiments and spectrophotometric measurements indicate that the degree of interaction between dyes and non‐ionic surfactants of the nonyl phenol—ethylene oxide type increases with the hydrophobic nature of the dye.
The Interaction between some Acid Wool Dyes and Nonylphenol–Ethylene Oxide Derivatives
Authors: Craven B. R. , Datyner A.
Published: July 2010

Determination of the apparent mean particle size of dye–surfactant complexes by means of diffusion measurements suggests that the extent of interaction between acid wool dyes and non‐ionic surfactants of of the nonylphenol–ethylene oxide type increases with the hydrophobic nature of the dye.
The Chemistry of the Reaction between Tetrakis(hydroxymethyl)phosphonium Chloride and Keratin
Authors: Jenkins A. D. , Wolfram L. J.
Published: July 2010

The chemistry of the reaction between tetrakis(hydroxymethyl)phosphonium chlorlde (thpc) and keratin has been investigated by analytical techniques, by studies of changes in mechanical properties of the fibre, and by means of setting and dyeing experiments. It is concluded that predominant reduction of disulphide binds to thiols occurs and that this is followed, under more drastic conditions, by the formation of thiazolidine‐4‐carboxylic acid. Covalent linking of phosphorus‐containing moieties to keratin does not occur.
The Identification of Disperse Dyes on Secondary Cellulose Acetate
Authors: Haigh D.
Published: July 2010

The detailed results are presented of the behaviour of ninety‐nine disperse dyes, applied to secondary cellulose acetate, when subjected to examination under ultraviolet radiation, diazotisation and development, reduction, oxidation, and spotting with acids and alkali. They have enabled charts to be formulated which facilitate the identification of many of the dyes examined.
Thin‐layer Chromatography and its Application to Dyes
Authors: Rettie G. H. , Haynes C. G.
Published: July 2010

Joint Meeting of the Huddersfield Region and the Huddersfield Section of the Royal Institute of Chemistry, held at the Queen Hotel, Huddersfield, on 18th February 1964, Dr. G. Sheldrick in the chair

The technique of thin‐layer chromatography is described in its practical aspects, with details of the apparatus required, selection of adsorbent and preparation of thin layers, methods of development, and choice of solvent. Brief details are given of the application of thin‐layer chromatography to the characterisation of the main classes of dyes: qualitative and quantitative aspects are considered. The use of the technique for the study and control of reactions is also discussed. The advantages of thin‐layer chromatography over other chromatographic techniques are summarised.
The Dyeing Properties of Monoazo Dyes Derived from Substituted 2‐Aminobenzothiazole‐3N‐oxides
Authors: Nishida K. , Nishimura S. , Haruna E. , Kumano I. , Hotuta T.
Published: July 2010

The preparation of new monoazo dyes from substituted 2‐aminobenzothiazole‐3N‐oxides and the dyeing properties of these dyes are reported.
The Principles of Colour Television
Authors: GREEN T.
Published: July 2010

The basic principles of colour television are explained.
Care‐labelling of Textiles
Authors: Beath W. R. , Hill F. R. , Sage W. Le
Published: July 2010

The paper covers: (1) early attempts at care‐labelling and their limitations; (2) current objectives of care‐labelling for international use; (3) present position of care‐labelling. The relative merits of existing systems throughout the world in relation to textiles, detergent products, domestic appliances and also the implications for ‘coin‐op’ and commercial laundering and dry cleaning; (4) implications of care‐labelling to the dyeing and finishing industry.
The Action of Reduced and Unreduced Sulphur Dyes on the Oxidation of Cellulose by Hypochlorite
Authors: Shenai V. A. , Rao R. K.
Published: July 2010

The effect of reduced and unreduced sulphur dyes an the oxidation of cellulose by hypochlorite, at different pH values, has been investigated in terms of the amount of oxygen consumed by the respective dyeings and of the physical and chemical properties of the oxidised dyeings. Thionol Ultra Green B, which was earlier shown [6] to be a protective dye in the photochemical degradation of cotton, has been found to be active when present in the reduced state during the oxidation of cellulose by hypochlorite
II ‐ Replacement of One Dye Class by Another
Authors: DUFF DAVID G. , McKINNON HECTOR
Published: July 2010

The technique described in Part I has been extended to cover the replacement, in a range of colours, of three levelling acid dyes by both three 1:2 metal‐complex or similar dyes, and by three reactive dyes. The replacement dyeings obtained were all acceptable commercial matches and showed much improved wet fastness properties.
The Use of Di‐isocyanates and their Bisulphite Adducts to Shrink‐resist Wool
Authors: GUISE G. BRUCE
Published: July 2010

The use of low‐molecular‐weight di‐isocyanates to shrink‐resist wool has been re‐examined. If steam cured for long periods low application levels would shrink‐resist wool, but, except for DDI, a di‐isocyanate (mol. wt. 600) derived from dimerized C18 unsaturated fatty acids (General Mills), their use was impractical owing to the firm fabric handle or toxic vapours. The bisulphite adducts of low‐molecular‐weight di‐isocyanates, apart from that of DDI, did not shrink‐resist wool. The finish imparted by DDI or its bisulphite adducts had better stability to thermal‐and photo‐degradation than that with polyether polyisocyanates or their bisulphite adducts. The use of other ‘dimer acid’ derivatives to shrink‐resist wool was also examined.
The Significance of Theoretical Results in the Dyeing of Acrilan 16 with Basic Dyes from an Anhydrous Perchloroethylene Dyebath
Authors: DODD G. S. , INGAMELLS W.
Published: July 2010

Theoretical principles used in an investigation of the mechanism of carrier dyeing and the plasticization of acrylic fibres have been applied successfully to the dyeing of Acrilan 16 with basic dyes from an anhydrous solvent dyebath. Part I deals with the selection of plasticizing agents and Part II describes the dyeing procedure and properties of the resulting basic dyeings.