bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing a Strategy for the Spatial Localisation and Autonomous Release of Silver Nanoparticles within Smart Implants
Authors: Newton Laura A. A. , Leslie Ray , Davis James
Published: August 2011

The prevalence of antibiotic resistance has increased during the last few years and is viewed as a growing problem which has fuelled copious amounts of research on the development of new antibacterial agents. Silver is well recognized as possessing antibacterial activity, and so by harnessing these properties and incorporating silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) within microdevices, possessing microfluidic channels has much promise. Progress in developing these types of systems has been limited due to the technological difficulties involved in controlling the inclusion of these nanoparticles within the devices. This work provides an insight into a novel electrochemical interaction that can enable not only the localisation of silver within such structures but also enables the smart release of AgNPs.
Thyroid Hormone and the Neuroglia: Both Source and Target
Authors: Mohácsik Petra , Zeöld Anikó , Bianco Antonio C. , Gereben Balázs
Published: August 2011

Thyroid hormone plays a crucial role in the development and function of the nervous system. In order to bind to its nuclear receptor and regulate gene transcription thyroxine needs to be activated in the brain. This activation occurs via conversion of thyroxine to T3, which is catalyzed by the type 2 iodothyronine deiodinase (D2) in glial cells, in astrocytes, and tanycytes in the mediobasal hypothalamus. We discuss how thyroid hormone affects glial cell function followed by an overview on the fine-tuned regulation of T3 generation by D2 in different glial subtypes. Recent evidence on the direct paracrine impact of glial D2 on neuronal gene expression underlines the importance of glial-neuronal interaction in thyroid hormone regulation as a major regulatory pathway in the brain in health and disease.
High-Level Language Production in Parkinson's Disease: A Review
Authors: Altmann Lori J. P. , Troche Michelle S.
Published: August 2011

This paper discusses impairments of high-level, complex language production in Parkinson's disease (PD), defined as sentence and discourse production, and situates these impairments within the framework of current psycholinguistic theories of language production. The paper comprises three major sections, an overview of the effects of PD on the brain and cognition, a review of the literature on language production in PD, and a discussion of the stages of the language production process that are impaired in PD. Overall, the literature converges on a few common characteristics of language production in PD: reduced information content, impaired grammaticality, disrupted fluency, and reduced syntactic complexity. Many studies also document the strong impact of differences in cognitive ability on language production. Based on the data, PD affects all stages of language production including conceptualization and functional and positional processing. Furthermore, impairments at all stages appear to be exacerbated by impairments in cognitive abilities.
Electrodeposition and Corrosion Resistance Properties of Zn-Ni/TiO2Nano composite Coatings
Authors: Praveen B. M. , Venkatesha T. V.
Published: August 2011

Nano sized TiO2particles were prepared by sol-gel method. TiO2nano particles were dispersed in zinc-nickel sulphate electrolyte and thin film of Zn-Ni-TiO2composite was generated by electrodeposition on mild steel plates. The effect of TiO2on the corrosion behavior and hardness of the composite coatings was investigated. The film was tested for its corrosion resistance property using electrochemical, weight loss, and salt spray methods. The paper revealed higher resistance of composite coating to corrosion. Microhardness of the composite coating was determined. Scanning electron microscope images and X-ray diffraction patterns of coating revealed its fine-grain nature. Average crystalline size of the composite coating was calculated. The anticorrosion mechanism of the composite coating was also discussed.
Bioconversion of Agricultural Waste to Ethanol by SSF Using Recombinant Cellulase fromClostridium thermocellum
Authors: Mutreja Ruchi , Das Debasish , Goyal Dinesh , Goyal Arun
Published: August 2011

The effect of different pretreatment methods, temperature, and enzyme concentration on ethanol production from 8 lignocellulosic agrowaste by simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) using recombinant cellulase andSaccharomyces cerevisiaewere studied. Recombinant cellulase was isolated fromE. coliBL21 cells transformed with CtLic26A-Cel5-CBM11 full-length gene fromClostridium thermocellumand produced in both batch and fed-batch processes. The maximum cell OD and specific activity in batch mode were 1.6 and 1.91 U/mg, respectively, whereas in the fed-batch mode, maximum cell OD and specific activity were 3.8 and 3.5 U/mg, respectively, displaying a 2-fold increase. Eight substrates,Syzygium cumini(jamun),Azadirachta indica(neem),Saracens indica(asoka),bambusa dendrocalmus(bamboo),Populas nigra(poplar),Achnatherum hymenoides(wild grass),Eucalyptus marginata(eucalyptus), andMangifera indica(mango), were subjected to SSF. Of three pretreatments, acid, alkali, and steam explosion, acid pretreatmentSyzygium cumini(Jamun) at 30°C gave maximum ethanol yield of 1.42 g/L.
High Throughput ELISAs to Measure a Unique Glycan on Transferrin in Cerebrospinal Fluid: A Possible Extension toward Alzheimer′s Disease Biomarker Development
Authors: Shirotani Keiro , Futakawa Satoshi , Nara Kiyomitsu , Hoshi Kyoka , Saito Toshie , Tohyama Yuriko , Kitazume Shinobu , Yuasa Tatsuhiko , Miyajima Masakazu , Arai Hajime , Kuno Atsushi , Narimatsu Hisashi , Hashimoto Yasuhiro
Published: August 2011

We have established high‐throughput lectin‐antibody ELISAs to measure different glycans on transferrin (Tf) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) using lectins and an anti‐transferrin antibody (TfAb). Lectin blot and precipitation analysis of CSF revealed that PVL (Psathyrella velutina lectin) bound an unique N‐acetylglucosamine‐terminated N‐glycans on “CSF‐type” Tf whereas SSA (Sambucus sieboldiana agglutinin) bound α2,6‐N‐acetylneuraminic acid‐terminated N‐glycans on “serum‐type” Tf. PVL‐TfAb ELISA of 0.5 μL CSF samples detected “CSF‐type” Tf but not “serum‐type” Tf whereas SSA‐TfAb ELISA detected “serum‐type” Tf but not “CSF‐type” Tf, demonstrating the specificity of the lectin‐TfAb ELISAs. In idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH), a senile dementia associated with ventriculomegaly, amounts of the SSA‐reactive Tf were significantly higher than in non‐iNPH patients, indicating that Tf glycan analysis by the high‐throughput lectin‐TfAb ELISAs could become practical diagnostic tools for iNPH. The lectin‐antibody ELISAs of CSF proteins might be useful for diagnosis of the other neurological diseases.
Alterations along the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Thyroid Axis of the Zebrafish (Danio rerio) after Exposure to Propylthiouracil
Authors: Schmidt Florian , Braunbeck Thomas
Published: August 2011

In the past, various approaches have been developed to detect adverse effects of pollutants on the thyroid of vertebrates, most of these with special emphasis on the South African clawed frog,Xenopus laevis. Although fish are primarily affected by thyroid-disrupting chemicals, studies into alterations of the thyroid of fish are scarce. Therefore, effects of the reference compound propylthiouracil on histopathology of the thyroid axis were analyzed in a modified early life-stage test with zebrafish (Danio rerio) exposed to propylthiouracil. The test substance induced dose-dependent alterations of thyroidal tissue concomitant with increases in the number of surrounding blood vessels. Despite this massive proliferation of the thyroid, zebrafish were not able to maintain thyroxin concentrations. The pituitary was affected displaying significant alterations in thyroid-stimulating hormone cell counts. Quantitative evaluation of pituitary surface areas revealed a dose-dependent increase of adenohypophyseal tissue. Distinct histopathological effects may contribute to a more easy identification and interpretation of alterations induced by thyroid-disrupting chemicals.
Electrochromism and Swelling of Polypyrrole Membranes: An Electrochemical and Ellipsometric Study
Authors: Zerbino J. O. , Sustersic M. G. , Falivene C. , Avaca N. , Maltz A.
Published: August 2011

The growth of polypyrrole (Ppy) layers on gold electrodes in nearly neutral pH solutions is analysed using “in situ” voltametric and ellipsometric techniques. Different film structures are obtained depending on the potentiodynamic programme and the composition of the electrolyte. More compact dodecylsulphate-(DS) doped Ppy layers were grown at 1.2 V versus RHE than those obtained by applying a higher potential. The more compact layers correspond to the growth of an oxidised Ppy/DS layer that shows low pseudo capacity behaviour. After dipping, the doped Ppy/DS film in KCl solution-significant variations in optical indices and thickness are detected as a function of the applied potential. Higher electrochromism as well as decrease in film thickness after cathodisation is achieved. The optical indices and the thickness of the Ppy layer formed under different applied potential/time programmes are estimated.
Interactions of Aging, Overload, and Creatine Supplementation in Rat Plantaris Muscle
Authors: Schuenke Mark D. , Brooks Naomi E. , Hikida Robert S.
Published: August 2011

Attenuation of age-related sarcopenia by creatine supplementation has been equivocal. In this study, plantaris muscles of young (Y; 5m) and aging (A; 24m) Fisher 344 rats underwent four weeks of either control (C), creatine supplementation (Cr), surgical overload (O), or overload plus creatine (OCr). Creatine alone had no effect on muscle fiber cross-sectional area (CSA) or heat shock protein (HSP70) and increased myonuclear domain (MND) only in young rats. Overload increased CSA and HSP70 content in I and IIA fibers, regardless of age, and MND in IIA fibers of YO rats. CSA and MND increased in all fast fibers of YOCr, and CSA increased in I and IIA fibers of AOCr. OCR did not alter HSP70, regardless of age. MND did not change in aging rats, regardless of treatment. These data indicate creatine alone had no significant effect. Creatine with overload produced no additional hypertrophy relative to overload alone and attenuated overload-induced HSP70 expression.
Connecting Cerebral White Matter Lesions and Hypertensive Target Organ Damage
Authors: Sierra Cristina , López-Soto Alfons , Coca Antonio
Published: August 2011

Chronic hypertension leads to concomitant remodeling of the cardiac and vascular systems and various organs, especially the brain, kidney, and retina. The brain is an early target of organ damage due to high blood pressure, which is the major modifiable risk factor for stroke and small vessel disease. Stroke is the second leading cause of death and the number one cause of disability worldwide and over 80% of strokes occur in the elderly. Preclinical hypertensive lesions in most target organs are clearly identified: left ventricular hypertrophy for the heart, microalbuminuria for the kidney, fundus abnormalities for the eye, and intima-media thickness and pulse wave velocity for the vessels. However, early hypertensive brain damage is not fully studied due to difficulties in access and the expense of techniques. After age, hypertension is the most-important risk factor for cerebral white matter lesions, which are an important prognostic factor for stroke, cognitive impairment, dementia, and death. Studies have shown an association between white matter lesions and a number of extracranial systems affected by high BP and also suggest that correct antihypertensive treatment could slow white matter lesions progression. There is strong evidence that cerebral white matter lesions in hypertensive patients should be considered a silent early marker of brain damage.
The Monogenean Parasite Fauna of Cichlids: A Potential Tool for Host Biogeography
Authors: Pariselle Antoine , Boeger Walter A. , Snoeks Jos , Bilong Bilong Charles F. , Morand Serge , Vanhove Maarten P. M.
Published: August 2011

We discuss geographical distribution and phylogeny of Dactylogyridea (Monogenea) parasitizing Cichlidae to elucidate their hosts' history. Although mesoparasitic Monogenea (Enterogyrusspp.) show typical vicariant distribution, ectoparasitic representatives from different continents are not considered sister taxa, hence their distribution cannot result from vicariance alone. Because of the close host-parasite relationship, this might indicate that present-day cichlid distribution may also reflect dispersal through coastal or brackish waters. Loss of ectoparasites during transoceanic migration, followed by lateral transfer from other fish families might explain extant host-parasite associations. Because of its mesoparasitic nature, hence not subject to salinity variations of the host's environment,Enterogyruscould have survived marine migrations, intolerable for ectoparasites. Host-switches and salinity transitions may be invoked to explain the pattern revealed by a preliminary morphological phylogeny of monogenean genera from Cichlidae and other selected Monogenea genera, rendering the parasite distribution explicable under both vicariance and dispersal. Testable hypotheses are put forward in this parasitological approach to cichlid biogeography. Along with more comprehensive in-depth morphological phylogeny, comparison with molecular data, clarifying dactylogyridean evolution on different continents and from various fish families, and providing temporal information on host-parasite history, are needed to discriminate between the possible scenarios.
Associations between Ambulatory Blood Pressure Parameters and Cerebral White Matter Lesions
Authors: Sierra Cristina
Published: August 2011

Silent cerebral white matter lesions (WMLs) are a common finding on magnetic resonance imaging of the brain in the elderly. However, in patients with hypertension, WMLs tend to occur earlier in life and appear to be more severe. There is a body of evidence that supports the idea that WMLs in asymptomatic hypertensive patients should be considered a silent early marker of brain damage. It is known that ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) correlates more closely with hypertension-related organ damage than office blood pressure. This paper focuses on the associations between blood pressure parameters obtained by 24-hour ABMP and cerebral WMLs.
Keratinase Production by ThreeBacillusspp. Using Feather Meal and Whole Feather as Substrate in a Submerged Fermentation
Authors: Mazotto Ana Maria , Coelho Rosalie Reed Rodrigues , Cedrola Sabrina Martins Lage , de Lima Marcos Fábio , Couri Sonia , Paraguai de Souza Edilma , Vermelho Alane Beatriz
Published: August 2011

ThreeBacillusspecies (B. subtilisLFB-FIOCRUZ 1270,B. subtilisLFB-FIOCRUZ 1273, andB. licheniformisLFB-FIOCRUZ 1274), isolated from the poultry industry, were evaluated for keratinase production using feathers or feather meal as the sole carbon and nitrogen sources in a submerged fermentation. The threeBacillusspp. produced extracellular keratinases and peptidases after 7 days. Feather meal was the best substrate for keratinase and peptidase production inB. subtilis1273, with 412 U/mL and 463 U/ml. The three strains were able to degrade feather meal (62–75%) and feather (40–95%) producing 3.9–4.4 mg/ml of soluble protein in feather meal medium and 1.9–3.3 mg/ml when feather medium was used. The three strains produced serine peptidases with keratinase and gelatinase activity.B. subtilis1273 was the strain which exhibited the highest enzymatic activity.
Assessment of Health-Related Quality of Life: The Cinderella of Peritoneal Dialysis?
Authors: Moreiras-Plaza Mercedes , Blanco-García Raquel , Cossio-Aranibar Cinthya Raquel , Rodriguez-Goyanes Gloria
Published: August 2011

The studies of quality of life (QoL) are becoming increasingly interesting in clinical setting because their findings have implications for making decisions on resource allocation and health policies. The assessment of health-related QoL is especially directed to patients with chronic illnesses that cause progressive deterioration and limitations, and consume the bulk of financial resources for health. Among these chronic kidney disease and, more specifically the renal replacement therapy, is an important condition. Due to the diagnostic and therapeutic advances, we see a gradual increase both in the number of the dialysis population and its age, which leads to a growing interest in the study of these patients' QoL, as evidenced by more than one thousand articles published on this subject.
Debittering of Protein Hydrolysates byLactobacillusLBL-4 Aminopeptidase
Authors: Tchorbanov Bozhidar , Marinova Margarita , Grozeva Lydia
Published: August 2011

Yoghurt strainLactobacillusLBL-4 cultivated for 8–10 h at pH ~6.0 was investigated as a considerable food-grade source of intracellular aminopeptidase. Cell-free extract manifesting >200 AP U/l was obtained from cells harvested from 1 L culture media. Subtilisin-induced hydrolysates of casein, soybean isolate, andScenedesmuscell protein with degree of hydrolysis 20–22% incubated at 45∘C for 10 h by 10 AP U/g peptides caused an enlarging of DH up to 40–42%, 46–48%, and 38–40% respectively. The DH increased rapidly during the first 4 h, but gel chromatography studies on BioGel P-2 showed significant changes occurred during 4–10 h of enzyme action when the DH increased gradually. After the digestion, the remained AP activity can be recovered by ultrafiltration (yield 40–50%).Scenedesmusprotein hydrolysate with DH 20% was inoculated byLactobacillusLBL-4 cells, and after 72 h cultivation the DH reached 32%. The protein hydrolysates (DH above 40%) obtained from casein and soybean isolate (highQvalue) demonstrated a negligible bitterness whileScenedesmusprotein hydrolysates (lowQvalue) after both treatments were free of bitterness.
Perceived Changes in Communication as an Effect of STN Surgery in Parkinson's Disease: A Qualitative Interview Study
Authors: Ahlberg Emilia , Laakso Katja , Hartelius Lena
Published: August 2011

The aim of the present study was to explore four individuals' perspective of the way their speech and communication changed as a result of subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation treatment for Parkinson's disease. Interviews of two men and two women were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Three themes emerged as a result of the analysis. The first theme included sub-themes describing both increased and unexpected communication difficulties such as a more vulnerable speech function, re-emerging stuttering and cognitive difficulties affecting communication. The second theme comprised strategies to improve communication, using different speech techniques and communicative support, as well as trying to achieve changes in medical and stimulation parameters. The third theme included descriptions of mixed feelings surrounding the surgery. Participants described the surgery as an unavoidable dramatic change, associated both with improved quality of life but also uncertainty and lack of information, particularly regarding speech and communication changes. Despite negative effects on speech, the individuals were generally very pleased with the surgical outcome. More information before surgery regarding possible side effects on speech, meeting with a previously treated patient and possibly voice and speech therapy before or after surgery are suggested to facilitate the adjustment to the new speech conditions.
Nucleotide Excision Repair inCaenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Lans Hannes , Vermeulen Wim
Published: August 2011

Nucleotide excision repair (NER) plays an essential role in many organisms across life domains to preserve and faithfully transmit DNA to the next generation. In humans, NER is essential to prevent DNA damage-induced mutation accumulation and cell death leading to cancer and aging. NER is a versatile DNA repair pathway that repairs many types of DNA damage which distort the DNA helix, such as those induced by solar UV light. A detailed molecular model of the NER pathway has emerged fromin vitroand live cell experiments, particularly using model systems such as bacteria, yeast, and mammalian cell cultures. In recent years, the versatility of the nematodeC. elegansto study DNA damage response (DDR) mechanisms including NER has become increasingly clear. In particular,C. elegansseems to be a convenient tool to study NER during the UV responsein vivo, to analyze this process in the context of a developing and multicellular organism, and to perform genetic screening. Here, we will discuss current knowledge gained from the use ofC. elegansto study NER and the response to UV-induced DNA damage.
The Age-Dependent Contribution of Aortic Incident and Reflected Pressure Waves to Central Blood Pressure in African-Americans
Authors: Kamran Haroon , Lazar Jason M. , Patel Rinkesh , Maraj IIir , Berman Heather , Salciccioli Louis
Published: August 2011

Aging is associated with increased central aortic systolic pressure (CSP) and pulse pressure which are predictive of cardiovascular events. Mechanisms implicated for higher central pressures include a higher forward incident pressure wave (P1), higher augmented pressure (AP), and shorter reflected wave round trip travel time (Tr). African-Americans (AA) have more frequent and deleterious blood pressure elevation. Using applanation tonometry, we studied the association of age and CSP with P1 and AP in 900 AA subjects. Data showed that in subjects ≤50 years old, CSP was mediated by AP but not P1 or Tr, whereas in those >50, CSP was mediated by both AP and P1 and to a lesser extent by Tr. Predictive models were significant () for both age groups. In conclusion, wave reflection is the primary determinant of CSP in younger AA, while in older subjects, CSP is mediated by both the magnitude and timing of wave reflection as well as aortic impedance.
Acute Kidney Injury in ADPKD Patients with Pneumonia
Authors: Franco Palacios Carlos , Keddis Mira T. , Qin Dingxin , Zand Ladan , Li Guangxi , Wang Xiangling , Cartin-Ceba Rodrigo , Hartman Robert P. , Qian Qi
Published: August 2011

Background. In animal models, polycystic kidneys are susceptible to acute kidney injury (AKI). We examined the occurrence of AKI in a cohort of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) and non-ADPKD patients with acute pneumonia.Design. All ADPKD patients admitted to Mayo Clinic Rochester for pneumonia from January 1990 to April 2010 were examined. Sixty-three patients had lobar infiltration and consolidation on chest X-ray. After excluding patients on dialysis, with organ transplantation, and on chronic immunosuppression, 24 remaining ADPKD patients were enrolled. Twenty-three of the 24 were matched with 92 (1 : 4 ratio) non-ADPKD pneumonia patients based on their baseline eGFR. AKI was defined as serum creatinine elevation ≥0.3 mg/dL.Results. Sixteen of the 23 ADPKD patients (69.6%) and 36 of the 92 (39.1%) non-ADPKD patients developed AKI,P=0.008. In both groups, those who developed AKI had a lower baseline eGFR (41.1±5.00versus58.7±11.8in ADPKD and40.2±3.65versus51.8±2.24 mL/min/1.73 m2in the non-ADPKD group), more intensive care unit admissions, and longer hospital stays. AKI was associated with a reduced survival in both groups.Conclusions. Patients with ADPKD admitted for acute pneumonia had more frequent episodes of AKI than non-ADPKD patients with comparable kidney function.
A Solid Binding Matrix/Mimic Receptor-Based Sensor System for Trace Level Determination of Iron Using Potential Measurements
Authors: Kamel Ayman H. , Moreira Felismina T. C. , Silva Tamara I. , Sales M. Goreti F.
Published: August 2011

Iron(II)-(1,10-phenanthroline) complex imprinted membrane was prepared by ionic imprinting technology. In the first step, Fe(II) established a coordination linkage with 1,10-phenanthroline and functional monomer 2-vinylpyridine (2-VP). Next, the complex was copolymerized with ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) as a crosslinker in the presence of benzoyl peroxide (BPO) as an initiator. Potentiometric chemical sensors were designed by dispersing the iron(II)-imprinted polymer particles in 2-nitrophenyloctyl ether (o-NPOE) plasticizer and then embedded in poly vinyl chloride (PVC) matrix. The sensors showed a Nernstian response for [Fe(phen)3]2+with limit of detection 3.15 ng mL−1and a Nernstian slope of 35.7 mV per decade.
Prognosis of Thyroid Cancer Related to Pregnancy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Alves Gustavo Vasconcelos , Santin Ana Paula , Furlanetto Tania Weber
Published: August 2011

Differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) is the second most common cancer in pregnancy. Its management is a challenge for both doctors and patients, and the best timing for surgery is unclear. A systematic review evaluating the prognosis of DTC in pregnant patients was conducted. After reviewing 401 unique citations and 54 full texts, 4 studies that compared the prognosis of patients with DTC related to pregnancy (DTC diagnosed during pregnancy or within 12 months after childbirth) or not were included. In two studies the primary outcome was overall survival, in one study the primary outcomes were recurrent disease and death related to thyroid cancer, and in one study the primary outcome was recurrent or persistent disease. In the first two studies, there was no difference in overall survival in patients with pregnancy-related DTC, when compared with matched controls; in one study, there was no difference in death caused by DTC nor recurrence in DTC related to pregnancy. Nevertheless, in a recent retrospective study, a higher rate of recurrent or persistent DTC was observed in patients with DTC related to pregnancy. There are not many studies on which to base treatment decisions in pregnant patients with DTC.
Arsenic Biotransformation as a Cancer Promoting Factor by Inducing DNA Damage and Disruption of Repair Mechanisms
Authors: Martinez Victor D. , Vucic Emily A. , Adonis Marta , Gil Lionel , Lam Wan L.
Published: August 2011

Chronic exposure to arsenic in drinking water poses a major global health concern. Populations exposed to high concentrations of arsenic-contaminated drinking water suffer serious health consequences, including alarming cancer incidence and death rates. Arsenic is biotransformed through sequential addition of methyl groups, acquired from s-adenosylmethionine (SAM). Metabolism of arsenic generates a variety of genotoxic and cytotoxic species, damaging DNA directly and indirectly, through the generation of reactive oxidative species and induction of DNA adducts, strand breaks and cross links, and inhibition of the DNA repair process itself. Since SAM is the methyl group donor used by DNA methyltransferases to maintain normal epigenetic patterns in all human cells, arsenic is also postulated to affect maintenance of normal DNA methylation patterns, chromatin structure, and genomic stability. The biological processes underlying the cancer promoting factors of arsenic metabolism, related to DNA damage and repair, will be discussed here.
Enzyme-Catalyzed Oxidation of 17β-Estradiol Using Immobilized Laccase fromTrametes versicolor
Authors: Cardinal-Watkins Chantale , Nicell Jim A.
Published: August 2011

Many natural and synthetic estrogens are amenable to oxidation through the catalytic action of oxidative enzymes such as the fungal laccaseTrametes versicolor. This study focused on characterizing the conversion of estradiol (E2) using laccase that had been immobilized by covalent bonding onto silica beads contained in a bench-scale continuous-flow packed bed reactor. Conversion of E2accomplished in the reactor declined when the temperature of the system was changed from room temperature to just above freezing at pH 5 as a result of a reduced rate of reaction rather than inactivation of the enzyme. Similarly, conversion increased when the system was brought to warmer temperatures. E2conversion increased when the pH of the influent to the immobilized laccase reactor was changed from pH 7 to pH 5, but longer-term experiments showed that the enzyme is more stable at pH 7. Results also showed that the immobilized laccase maintained its activity when treating a constant supply of aqueous E2at a low mean residence time over a 12-hour period and when treating a constant supply of aqueous E2at a high mean residence time over a period of 9 days.
Looking for the Mechanism of Action of Thyroid Hormone
Authors: Tata Jamshed R.
Published: August 2011

The mechanisms of action of thyroid hormone (TH), characterized by multiple physiological activities, proposed over the last 80 years are a reflection of the progression of our knowledge about eukaryotic signalling processes. The cumulative knowledge gained raises the question as to what is so special about the action of this hormone. The discovery in the 1980s that TH receptors belong to the family of nuclear transcription factors that regulate the expression of hormonal target genes was an important milestone. TH receptors are highly organized within the chromatin structure, which itself is modified by several chromosomal and nonchromosomal factors, in the presence and absence of the hormone. Recently, some investigators have suggested that TH acts via both genomic and nongenomic mechanisms and introduced the concept of networking within cellular complexes. While one cannot as yet precisely describe the mechanism of thyroid hormone action, I will attempt here to point out the present thinking and future directions to achieve this goal in the light of the historical background.
Shut-In? Impact of Chronic Conditions on Community Participation Restriction among Older Adults
Authors: Theis Kristina A. , Furner Sylvia E.
Published: August 2011

Community participation may be especially important for older adults, who are often at risk for unwanted declines in participation. We estimated the prevalence of community participation restriction (PR) due to perceived environmental barriers among older adults (≥50 years) and compared the impact among those with selected chronic conditions. Individuals with low-prevalence conditions reported high community PR (9.1–20.4%), while those with highly prevalent conditions (e.g., arthritis) had relatively low community PR (5.1–10.0%) but represented the greatest absolute numbers of condition-associated burden (>1 million). Across all conditions, more than half of those with community PR reported being restricted “always or often.” Community PR most often resulted from modifiable environmental barriers. Promising targets to reduce community PR among adults ≥50 years with chronic conditions, particularly arthritis, include building design, sidewalks/curbs, crowd control, and interventions that improve the built environment.
Improvement of Phytase Activity by a New Saccharomyces cerevisiae Strain Using Statistical Optimization
Authors: Ries Edi Franciele , Alves Macedo Gabriela
Published: August 2011

Using statistical optimization, we enhanced the activity of phytase by a new Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain cultured in mineral medium. Concentrations of carbon source and inducer of phytase production were optimized using a 22 full factorial CCD and response surface methodology (RSM). Urea was fixed as nitrogen source in culture medium (0.15%, w/v). The culture medium consisting of 2.5% sucrose and 0.5% sodium phytate optimally supported the maximum phytase activity. In addition, we found that culture of the yeast at 35°C with shaking at 150 rpm supports maximum phytase production. The validity of this model was verified by culturing the organisms in flasks on a shaker. Using the optimized media and growth conditions, we obtained a 10-fold improvement in the production of phytase by S. cerevisiae.
Medical and Psychological Risk Factors for Incident Hypertension in Type 1 Diabetic African-Americans
Authors: Roy Monique S. , Janal Malvin N. , Roy Alec
Published: August 2011

Objective. To determine risk factors for the development of hypertension among African-Americans living with type 1 diabetes.Methods. African-Americans with type 1 diabetes (n= 483) participated in a 6-year followup. At both baseline and followup blood pressure was measured twice in both sitting and standing positions using a standard protocol. Patients had a structured clinical interview, ocular examination, retinal photographs, and blood and urine assays and completed the Hostility and Direction of Hostility Questionnaire (HDHQ) and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI).Results. Of the 280 diabetic patients with no hypertension at baseline, 82 (29.3%) subsequently developed hypertension over the 6-year followup. Baseline older age, longer duration of diabetes, family history of hypertension, greater mean arterial blood pressure, overt proteinuria, increasing retinopathy severity, peripheral neuropathy, smoking, and higher hostility scores were significantly associated with the development of hypertension. Multivariate analyses showed that higher hostility scores and overt proteinuria were significantly and independently associated with the development of hypertension in this population.Conclusions. The development of hypertension in African-Americans living with type 1 diabetes appears to be multifactorial and includes both medical (overt proteinuria) as well as psychological (high hostility) risk factors.
The Impact of Bioactive Lipids on Cardiovascular Development
Authors: Kleger Alexander , Liebau Stefan , Lin Qiong , von Wichert Götz , Seufferlein Thomas
Published: August 2011

Lysophospholipids comprise a group of bioactive molecules with multiple biological functions. The cardinal members of this signalling molecule group are sphingosylphosphorylcholine (SPC), lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), and sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) which are, at least in part, homologous to each other. Bioactive lipids usually act via G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), but can also function as direct intracellular messengers. Recently, it became evident that bioactive lipids play a role during cellular differentiation development. SPC induces mesodermal differentiation of mouse ES cells and differentiation of promyelocytic leukemia cells, by a mechanism being critically dependent on MEK-ERK signalling. LPA stimulates the clonal expansion of neurospheres from neural stem/progenitor cells and induces c-fos via activation of mitogen- and stress-activated protein kinase 1 (MSK1) in ES cells. S1P acts on hematopoietic progenitor cells as a chemotactic factor and has also been found to be critical for cardiac and skeletal muscle regeneration. Furthermore, S1P promotes cardiogenesis and similarly activates Erk signalling in mouse ES cells. Interestingly, S1P may also act to maintain human stem cell pluripotency. Both LPA and S1P positively regulate the proliferative capacity of murine ES cells. In this paper we will focus on the differential and developmental impact of lysophospholipids on cardiovascular development.
Immobilization of a Commercial Lipase from Penicillium camembertii (Lipase G) by Different Strategies
Authors: Mendes Adriano A. , Freitas Larissa , de Carvalho Ana Karine F. , de Oliveira Pedro C. , de Castro Heizir F.
Published: August 2011

The objective of this work was to select the most suitable procedure to immobilize lipase from Penicillium camembertii (Lipase G). Different techniques and supports were evaluated, including physical adsorption on hydrophobic supports octyl-agarose, poly(hydroxybutyrate) and Amberlite resin XAD-4; ionic adsorption on the anionic exchange resin MANAE-agarose and covalent attachment on glyoxyl-agarose, MANAE-agarose cross-linked with glutaraldehyde, MANAE-agarose-glutaraldehyde, and epoxy-silica-polyvinyl alcohol composite. Among the tested protocols, the highest hydrolytic activity (128.2 ± 8.10 IU·g−1 of support) was achieved when the lipase was immobilized on epoxy-SiO2-PVA using hexane as coupling medium. Lipase immobilized by ionic adsorption on MANAE-agarose also gave satisfactory result, attaining 55.6 ± 2.60 IU·g−1 of support. In this procedure, the maximum loading of immobilized enzyme was 9.3 mg·g−1 of gel, and the highest activity (68.8 ± 2.70 IU·g−1 of support) was obtained when 20 mg of protein·g−1 was offered. Immobilization carried out in aqueous medium by physical adsorption on hydrophobic supports and covalent attachment on MANAE-agarose-glutaraldehyde and glyoxyl-agarose was shown to be unfeasible for Lipase G. Thermal stability tests revealed that the immobilized derivative on epoxy-SiO2-PVA composite using hexane as coupling medium had a slight higher thermal stability than the free lipase.
Application of Microarray-Based Comparative Genomic Hybridization in Prenatal and Postnatal Settings: Three Case Reports
Authors: Liu Jing , Bernier Francois , Lauzon Julie , Lowry R. Brian , Chernos Judy
Published: August 2011

Microarray-based comparative genomic hybridization (array CGH) is a newly emerged molecular cytogenetic technique for rapid evaluation of the entire genome with sub-megabase resolution. It allows for the comprehensive investigation of thousands and millions of genomic loci at once and therefore enables the efficient detection of DNA copy number variations (a.k.a, cryptic genomic imbalances). The development and the clinical application of array CGH have revolutionized the diagnostic process in patients and has provided a clue to many unidentified or unexplained diseases which are suspected to have a genetic cause. In this paper, we present three clinical cases in both prenatal and postnatal settings. Among all, array CGH played a major discovery role to reveal the cryptic and/or complex nature of chromosome arrangements. By identifying the genetic causes responsible for the clinical observation in patients, array CGH has provided accurate diagnosis and appropriate clinical management in a timely and efficient manner.
Coessential Abelianization Morphisms in the Category of Groups
Authors: Oancea D.
Published: August 2011

An epimorphism ϕ: G → H of groups, where G has rank n, is called coessential if every (ordered) generating n-tuple of H can be lifted along ϕ to a generating n-tuple for G. We discuss this property in the context of the category of groups, and establish a criterion for such a group G to have the property that its abelianization epimorphism G → G/[G, G], where [G,G] is the commutator subgroup, is coessential. We give an example of a family of 2-generator groups whose abelianization epimorphism is not coessential. This family also provides counterexamples to the generalized Andrews–Curtis conjecture.
Master curves for the stress tensor invariants in stationary states of static granular beds. Implications for the thermodynamic phase space
Authors: Pugnaloni Luis Ariel , Damas José , Zuriguel Iker , Maza Diego
Published: August 2011

We prepare static granular beds under gravity in different stationary states by tapping the system with pulsed excitations of controlled amplitude and duration. The macroscopic state---defined by the ensemble of static configurations explored by the system tap after tap---for a given tap intensity and duration is studied in terms of volume, $V$, and force moment tensor, $\Sigma$. In a previous paper [Pugnaloni et al., Phys. Rev. E  82, 050301(R) (2010)], we reported evidence supporting that such macroscopic states cannot be fully described by using only $V$ or $\Sigma$, apart from the number of particles $N$. In this work, we present an analysis of the fluctuations of these variables that indicates that $V$ and $\Sigma$ may be sufficient to define the macroscopic states. Moreover, we show that only one of the invariants of $\Sigma$ is necessary, since each component of $\Sigma$ falls onto a master curve when plotted as a function of $\rm{Tr}(\Sigma)$. This  implies that these granular assemblies have a common shape for the stress tensor, even though it does not correspond to the hydrostatic type. Although most results are obtained by molecular dynamics simulations, we present supporting experimental results.Received: 11 May 2011, Accepted: 15 July 2011; Edited by: J-C. Géminard; Reviewed by: B. Tighe, Instituut-Lorentz, Universiteit Leiden, Netherlands; DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.4279/PIP.030004Cite as: L. A. Pugnaloni, J. Damas, I. Zuriguel, D. Maza, Papers in Physics 3, 030004 (2011)
Estimating the direct and indirect effects of secondary organic aerosols using ECHAM5-HAM
Authors: O'Donnell D. , Tsigaridis K. , Feichter J.
Published: August 2011

Abstract. Secondary organic aerosol (SOA) has been introduced into the global climate-aerosol model ECHAM5/HAM. The SOA module handles aerosols originating from both biogenic and anthropogenic sources. The model simulates the emission of precursor gases, their chemical conversion into condensable gases, the partitioning of semi-volatile condenable species into the gas and aerosol phases. As ECHAM5/HAM is a size-resolved model, a new method that permits the calculation of partitioning of semi-volatile species between different size classes is introduced. We compare results of modelled organic aerosol concentrations against measurements from extensive measurement networks in Europe and the United States, running the model with and without SOA. We also compare modelled aerosol optical depth against measurements from the AERONET network of grond stations. We find that SOA improves agreement between model and measurements in both organic aerosol mass and aerosol optical depth, but does not fully correct the low bias that is present in the model for both of these quantities. Although many models now include SOA, any overall estimate of the direct and indirect effects of these aerosols is still lacking. This paper makes a first step in that direction. The model is applied to estimate the direct and indirect effects of SOA under simulated year 2000 conditions. The modelled SOA spatial distribution indicates that SOA is likely to be an important source of free and upper tropospheric aerosol. We find a negative shortwave (SW) forcing from the direct effect, amounting to −0.31 Wm−2 on the global annual mean. In contrast, the model indicates a positive indirect effect of SOA of +0.23 Wm−2, arising from the enlargement of particles due to condensation of SOA, together with an enhanced coagulation sink of small particles. In the longwave, model results are a direct effect of +0.02 Wm−2 and an indirect effect of −0.03 Wm−2.
Atmospheric chemistry of carboxylic acids: microbial implication versus photochemistry
Authors: Vaïtilingom M. , Charbouillot T. , Deguillaume L. , Maisonobe R. , Parazols M. , Amato P. , Sancelme M. , Delort A.-M.
Published: August 2011

Abstract. The objective of this work was to compare experimentally the contribution of photochemistry vs. microbial activity to the degradation of carboxylic acids present in cloud water. For this, we selected 17 strains representative of the microflora existing in real clouds and worked on two distinct artificial cloud media that reproduce marine and continental cloud chemical composition. Photodegradation experiments with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) as a source of hydroxyl radicals were performed under the same microcosm conditions using two irradiation systems. Biodegradation and photodegradation rates of acetate, formate, oxalate and succinate were measured on both media at 5 °C and 17 °C and were shown to be on the same order of magnitude (around 10−10–10−11 M s−1). The chemical composition (marine or continental origin) had little influence on photodegradation and biodegradation rates while the temperature shift from 17 °C to 5 °C decreased biodegradation rates of a factor 2 to 5. In order to test other photochemical scenarios, theoretical photodegradation rates were calculated considering hydroxyl (OH) radical concentration values in cloud water estimated by cloud chemistry modelling studies and available reaction rate constants of carboxylic compounds with both hydroxyl and nitrate radicals. Considering high OH concentration ([OH] = 1 × 10−12 M) led to no significant contribution of microbial activity in the destruction of carboxylic acids. On the contrary, for lower OH concentration (at noon, [OH] = 1 × 10−14 M), microorganisms could efficiently compete with photochemistry and in similar contributions than the ones estimated by our experimental approach. Combining these two approaches (experimental and theoretical), our results led to the following conclusions: oxalate was only photodegraded; the photodegradation of formate was usually more efficient than its biodegradation; the biodegradation of acetate and succinate seemed to exceed their photodegradation.
Environmental control on the variability of DMS and DMSP in the Mauritanian upwelling region
Authors: Zindler C. , Peeken I. , Marandino C. A. , Bange H. W.
Published: August 2011

Abstract. Dimethylsulfide (DMS) and dissolved and particulate dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSPd, DMSPp) were measured in sea surface layer along the Mauritanian coast, Northwest Africa, during the upwelling season in February 2008. DMS, DMSPd and DMSPp surface concentrations of up to 10 nmol L−1, 15 nmol L−1 and 990 nmol L−1, respectively, were measured. The maximum DMSPp concentration is the highest reported from upwelling regions so far and indicates that the Mauritanian upwelling is a hot spot of DMSP and, thus, DMS production. Dinoflagellates were responsible for the DMS production. Other phytoplankton groups seemed to have only a minor or no influence on the DMS and DMSP production. Decreasing nitrogen (i.e. increasing nitrogen limitation) most likely triggered a switch from high DMSP production to high DMS production. It seems that both nitrogen limitation and the intensive solar radiation in the tropics induced stress in DMSP producing algae and activated their antioxidant system. Our results underline the importance of coastal upwelling regions as ecosystems with a pronounced temporal and spatial variability which result in high DMSP and DMS production.
A formação do profesor de Inglês nas grades curriculares anual e semestral do Curso de Letras da UFG
Authors: Pessoa Rosane Rocha , Yasbec Sebba Maria Aparecida , Araújo Gomes Valdirene Maria de
Published: August 2011

Em decorrência de mudanças na grade curricular do Curso de Letras daUniversidade Federal de Goiás em 2004, realizou-se esta pesquisa com oobjetivo de comparar o conhecimento linguístico e o teórico-profissionalde alunos de inglês nas grades curriculares anual e semestral com base napercepção de professores e alunos. Os resultados evidenciam que os professoresacreditam que o conhecimento linguístico e teórico-profissional dos alunosestá um pouco melhor na grade semestral, ao passo que os dados dos alunosevidenciam que esse conhecimento é similar nas duas grades.
Orobanche mayeri (Suess. & Ronniger) Bertsch & F. Bertsch – a species new to Poland
Authors: Piwowarczyk Renata
Published: August 2011

Two new localities of Orobanche mayeri (Suess. & Ronniger) Bertsch & F. Bertsch, one of the rarest representatives of the family Orobanchaceae in Europe, are reported from southern Poland. The species was recorded in the Pieniny Mts (Central Western Carpathians) in July 2009. The hosts, abundance and habitat preferences at the new localities are described and a supplemented map of the distribution in Europe and Poland is given.