bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Context of Body Art
Authors: Clerici Renata , Meggiolaro Silvia
Published: November 2011

The present study analyses factors associated with the propensity for piercing and tattooing among adolescents, from a survey conducted in 2007 in high schools in the Veneto Region (Northeast Italy). After some descriptive analyses, multinomial logistic regression models were applied to identify what predicts the practice of, interest in, or indifference to piercing and tattooing. Results show gender differences in the approach to body modification: For girls, body art is considered a mainstream activity involving younger cohorts; piercing and tattooing become a way of increasing their own body satisfaction. For boys, factors connected with the propensity for these practices are a low cultural background and the importance given to physical appearance. For both boys and girls, a significant aspect in defining attitudes toward body art practices is the values system: Values such as enjoyment, beauty, and youth, are found to be closely connected with a high propensity for these practices.
Using Models in Writing Instruction
Authors: Abbuhl Rebekha
Published: November 2011

Models are commonly employed in both first (L1) and second language (L2) writing classrooms; however, questions remain concerning the role of this inductive technique in students’ genre learning. The study reported here examines the effect of two instructional techniques (models and models combined with explicit instruction) on the ability of three groups of writers (native speakers of English, higher proficiency nonnative speakers, and lower proficiency nonnative speakers) to produce a specially constructed essay type. Using a controlled/posttest design with stimulated recall data, the study found that those students receiving models were outperformed on Essay 1, Essay 2 (1 week later), and a Quiz (1 month later) by those students who received models in combination with explicit instruction. Implications for L2 writing instruction are discussed.
Active vaccination with Dickkopf-1 induces protective and therapeutic antitumor immunity in murine multiple myeloma
Authors: Qian Jianfei , Zheng Yuhuan , Zheng Chengyun , Wang Lijuan , Qin Hong , Hong Sungyoul , Li Haiyan , Lu Yong , He Jin , Yang Jing , Neelapu Sattva , Kwak Larry W. , Hou Jian , Yi Qing
Published: November 2011

Dickkopf-1 (DKK1), broadly expressed in myeloma cells but highly restricted in normal tissues, together with its functional roles as an osteoblast formation inhibitor, may be an ideal target for immunotherapy in myeloma. Our previous studies have shown that DKK1 (peptide)–specific CTLs can effectively lyse primary myeloma cells in vitro. The goal of this study was to examine whether DKK1 can be used as a tumor vaccine to elicit DKK1-specific immunity that can control myeloma growth or even eradicate established myeloma in vivo. We used DKK1-DNA vaccine in the murine MOPC-21 myeloma model, and the results clearly showed that active vaccination using the DKK1 vaccine not only was able to protect mice from developing myeloma, but it was also therapeutic against established myeloma. Furthermore, the addition of CpG as an adjuvant, or injection of B7H1-blocking or OX40-agonist Abs, further enhanced the therapeutic effects of the vaccine. Mechanistic studies revealed that DKK1 vaccine elicited a strong DKK1- and tumor-specific CD4+ and CD8+ immune responses, and treatment with B7H1 or OX40 Abs significantly reduced the numbers of IL-10–expressing and Foxp3+ regulatory T cells in vaccinated mice. Thus, our studies provide strong rationale for targeting DKK1 for immunotherapy of myeloma patients.
Cattle remain immunocompetent during the acute phase of foot-and-mouth disease virus infection
Authors: Windsor Miriam A , Carr B Veronica , Bankowski Bartomiej , Gibson Debi , Reid Elizabeth , Hamblin Pip , Gubbins Simon , Juleff Nicholas , Charleston Bryan
Published: November 2011

Infection of cattle with foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) results in the development of long-term protective antibody responses. In contrast, inactivated antigen vaccines fail to induce long-term protective immunity. Differences between susceptible species have also been observed during infection with FMDV, with cattle often developing persistent infections whilst pigs develop more severe symptoms and excrete higher levels of virus. This study examined the early immune response to FMDV in naïve cattle after in-contact challenge. Cattle exposed to FMDV were found to be viraemic and produced neutralising antibody, consistent with previous reports. In contrast to previous studies in pigs these cattle did not develop leucopenia, and the proliferative responses of peripheral blood mononuclear cells to either mitogen or third party antigen were not suppressed. Low levels of type 1 interferon and IL-10 were detected in the circulation. Taken together, these results suggest that there was no generalised immunosuppression during the acute phase of FMDV infection in cattle.
Immunobiotic lactic acid bacteria beneficially regulate immune response triggered by poly(I:C) in porcine intestinal epithelial cells
Authors: Hosoya Shoichi , Villena Julio , Shimazu Tomoyuki , Tohno Masanori , Fujie Hitomi , Chiba Eriko , Shimosato Takeshi , Aso Hisashi , Suda Yoshihito , Kawai Yasushi , Saito Tadao , Alvarez Susana , Ikegami Shuji , Itoh Hiroyuki , Kitazawa Haruki
Published: November 2011

This study analyzed the functional expression of TLR3 in various gastrointestinal tissues from adult swine and shows that TLR3 is expressed preferentially in intestinal epithelial cells (IEC), CD172a+CD11R1high and CD4+ cells from ileal Peyer's patches. We characterized the inflammatory immune response triggered by TLR3 activation in a clonal porcine intestinal epitheliocyte cell line (PIE cells) and in PIE-immune cell co-cultures, and demonstrated that these systems are valuable tools to study in vitro the immune response triggered by TLR3 on IEC and the interaction between IEC and immune cells. In addition, we selected an immunobiotic lactic acid bacteria strain, Lactobacillus casei MEP221106, able to beneficially regulate the anti-viral immune response triggered by poly(I:C) stimulation in PIE cells. Moreover, we deepened our understanding of the possible mechanisms of immunobiotic action by demonstrating that L. casei MEP221106 modulates the interaction between IEC and immune cells during the generation of a TLR3-mediated immune response.
Accelerated evolution of 3'avian FOXE1 genes, and thyroid and feather specific expression of chicken FoxE1
Authors: Yaklichkin Sergey Yu , Darnell Diana K , Pier Maricela V , Antin Parker B , Hannenhalli Sridhar
Published: November 2011

Background

The forkhead transcription factor gene E1 (FOXE1) plays an important role in regulation of thyroid development, palate formation and hair morphogenesis in mammals. However, avian FOXE1 genes have not been characterized and as such, codon evolution of FOXE1 orthologs in a broader evolutionary context of mammals and birds is not known.

Results

In this study we identified the avian FOXE1 gene in chicken, turkey and zebra finch, all of which consist of a single exon. Chicken and zebra finch FOXE1 are uniquely located on the sex-determining Z chromosome. In situ hybridization shows that chicken FOXE1 is specifically expressed in the developing thyroid. Its expression is initiated at the placode stage and is maintained during the stages of vesicle formation and follicle primordia. Based on this expression pattern, we propose that avian FOXE1 may be involved in regulating the evagination and morphogenesis of thyroid. Chicken FOXE1 is also expressed in growing feathers. Sequence analysis identified two microdeletions in the avian FOXE1 genes, corresponding to the loss of a transferable repression domain and an engrailed homology motif 1 (Eh1) C-terminal to the forkhead domain. The avian FOXE1 proteins exhibit a significant sequence divergence of the C-terminus compared to those of amphibian and mammalian FOXE1. The codon evolution analysis (dN/dS) of FOXE1 shows a significantly increased dN/dS ratio in the avian lineages, consistent with either a relaxed purifying selection or positive selection on a few residues in avian FOXE1 evolution. Further site specific analysis indicates that while relaxed purifying selection is likely to be a predominant cause of accelerated evolution at the 3'-region of avian FOXE1, a few residues might have evolved under positive selection.

Conclusions

We have identified three avian FOXE1 genes based on synteny and sequence similarity as well as characterized the expression pattern of the chicken FOXE1 gene during development. Our evolutionary analyses suggest that while a relaxed purifying selection is likely to be the dominant force driving accelerated evolution of avian FOXE1 genes, a few residues may have evolved adaptively. This study provides a basis for future genetic and comparative biochemical studies of FOXE1.
FastCloning: a highly simplified, purification-free, sequence- and ligation-independent PCR cloning method
Authors: Li Chaokun , Wen Aiyun , Shen Benchang , Lu Jia , Huang Yao , Chang Yongchang
Published: November 2011

Background

Although a variety of methods and expensive kits are available, molecular cloning can be a time-consuming and frustrating process.

Results

Here we report a highly simplified, reliable, and efficient PCR-based cloning technique to insert any DNA fragment into a plasmid vector or into a gene (cDNA) in a vector at any desired position. With this method, the vector and insert are PCR amplified separately, with only 18 cycles, using a high fidelity DNA polymerase. The amplified insert has the ends with ~16-base overlapping with the ends of the amplified vector. After DpnI digestion of the mixture of the amplified vector and insert to eliminate the DNA templates used in PCR reactions, the mixture is directly transformed into competent E. coli cells to obtain the desired clones. This technique has many advantages over other cloning methods. First, it does not need gel purification of the PCR product or linearized vector. Second, there is no need of any cloning kit or specialized enzyme for cloning. Furthermore, with reduced number of PCR cycles, it also decreases the chance of random mutations. In addition, this method is highly effective and reproducible. Finally, since this cloning method is also sequence independent, we demonstrated that it can be used for chimera construction, insertion, and multiple mutations spanning a stretch of DNA up to 120 bp.

Conclusion

Our FastCloning technique provides a very simple, effective, reliable, and versatile tool for molecular cloning, chimera construction, insertion of any DNA sequences of interest and also for multiple mutations in a short stretch of a cDNA.
Brain microvascular pericytes are immunoactive in culture: cytokine, chemokine, nitric oxide, and LRP-1 expression in response to lipopolysaccharide
Authors: Kovac Andrej , Erickson Michelle A , Banks William A
Published: November 2011

Background

Brain microvascular pericytes are important constituents of the neurovascular unit. These cells are physically the closest cells to the microvascular endothelial cells in brain capillaries. They significantly contribute to the induction and maintenance of the barrier functions of the blood-brain barrier. However, very little is known about their immune activities or their roles in neuroinflammation. Here, we focused on the immunological profile of brain pericytes in culture in the quiescent and immune-challenged state by studying their production of immune mediators such as nitric oxide (NO), cytokines, and chemokines. We also examined the effects of immune challenge on pericyte expression of low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein-1 (LRP-1), a protein involved in the processing of amyloid precursor protein and the brain-to-blood efflux of amyloid-β peptide.

Methods

Supernatants were collected from primary cultures of mouse brain pericytes. Release of nitric oxide (NO) was measured by the Griess reaction and the level of S-nitrosylation of pericyte proteins measured with a modified "biotin-switch" method. Specific mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway inhibitors were used to determine involvement of these pathways on NO production. Cytokines and chemokines were analyzed by multianalyte technology. The expression of both subunits of LRP-1 was analyzed by western blot.

Results

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced release of NO by pericytes in a dose-dependent manner that was mediated through MAPK pathways. Nitrative stress resulted in S-nitrosylation of cellular proteins. Eighteen of twenty-three cytokines measured were released constitutively by pericytes or with stimulation by LPS, including interleukin (IL)-12, IL-13, IL-9, IL-10, granulocyte-colony stimulating factor, granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor, eotaxin, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand (CCL)-3, and CCL-4. Pericyte expressions of both subunits of LRP-1 were upregulated by LPS.

Conclusions

Our results show that cultured mouse brain microvascular pericytes secrete cytokines, chemokines, and nitric oxide and respond to the innate immune system stimulator LPS. These immune properties of pericytes are likely important in their communication within the neurovascular unit and provide a mechanism by which they participate in neuroinflammatory processes in brain infections and neurodegenerative diseases.
Origin and consequences of brain Toll-like receptor 4 pathway stimulation in an experimental model of depression
Authors: Gárate Iciar , García-Bueno Borja , Madrigal José LM , Bravo Lidia , Berrocoso Esther , Caso Javier R , Micó Juan A , Leza Juan C
Published: November 2011

Background

There is a pressing need to identify novel pathophysiological pathways relevant to depression that can help to reveal targets for the development of new medications. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4) has a regulatory role in the brain's response to stress. Psychological stress may compromise the intestinal barrier, and increased gastrointestinal permeability with translocation of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from Gram-negative bacteria may play a role in the pathophysiology of major depression.

Methods

Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to chronic mild stress (CMS) or CMS+intestinal antibiotic decontamination (CMS+ATB) protocols. Levels of components of the TLR-4 signaling pathway, of LPS and of different inflammatory, oxidative/nitrosative and anti-inflammatory mediators were measured by RT-PCR, western blot and/or ELISA in brain prefrontal cortex. Behavioral despair was studied using Porsolt's test.

Results

CMS increased levels of TLR-4 and its co-receptor MD-2 in brain as well as LPS and LPS-binding protein in plasma. In addition, CMS also increased interleukin (IL)-1β, COX-2, PGE2 and lipid peroxidation levels and reduced levels of the anti-inflammatory prostaglandin 15d-PGJ2 in brain tissue. Intestinal decontamination reduced brain levels of the pro-inflammatory parameters and increased 15d-PGJ2, however this did not affect depressive-like behavior induced by CMS.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that LPS from bacterial translocation is responsible, at least in part, for the TLR-4 activation found in brain after CMS, which leads to release of inflammatory mediators in the CNS. The use of Gram-negative antibiotics offers a potential therapeutic approach for the adjuvant treatment of depression.
Successful treatment for acute aortic dissection in pregnancy-bentall procedure concomitant with cesarean section
Authors: Guo Changfa , Xu Demin , Wang Chunsheng
Published: November 2011

Acute aortic type A dissection is a life-threatening disease that requires immediate surgical intervention. When dissection occurs during pregnancy, it is of high risk for both the mother and the fetus. In this study, we reported two cases of acute aortic dissection in late pregnancy at 28 weeks and 32 weeks of gestation respectively. After the two patients underwent a cesarean section and delivered a baby, we performed composite graft replacement of the aortic valve, aortic root and ascending aorta, with re-implantation of the coronary arteries into the graft (Bentall procedure) instead of repairing the arch with deep hypothermia and circulation arrest. Both mothers and children survived and recovered well.
Mutational screening of the USH2A gene in Spanish USH patients reveals 23 novel pathogenic mutations
Authors: Garcia-Garcia Gema , Aparisi Maria J , Jaijo Teresa , Rodrigo Regina , Leon Ana M , Avila-Fernandez Almudena , Blanco-Kelly Fiona , Bernal Sara , Navarro Rafael , Diaz-Llopis Manuel , Baiget Montserrat , Ayuso Carmen , Millan Jose M , Aller Elena
Published: November 2011

Background

Usher Syndrome type II (USH2) is an autosomal recessive disorder, characterized by moderate to severe hearing impairment and retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Among the three genes implicated, mutations in the USH2A gene account for 74-90% of the USH2 cases.

Methods

To identify the genetic cause of the disease and determine the frequency of USH2A mutations in a cohort of 88 unrelated USH Spanish patients, we carried out a mutation screening of the 72 coding exons of this gene by direct sequencing. Moreover, we performed functional minigene studies for those changes that were predicted to affect splicing.

Results

As a result, a total of 144 DNA sequence variants were identified. Based upon previous studies, allele frequencies, segregation analysis, bioinformatics' predictions and in vitro experiments, 37 variants (23 of them novel) were classified as pathogenic mutations.

Conclusions

This report provide a wide spectrum of USH2A mutations and clinical features, including atypical Usher syndrome phenotypes resembling Usher syndrome type I. Considering only the patients clearly diagnosed with Usher syndrome type II, and results obtained in this and previous studies, we can state that mutations in USH2A are responsible for 76.1% of USH2 disease in patients of Spanish origin.
Male gender predicts mortality in a large cohort of patients receiving antiretroviral therapy in Uganda
Authors: Mills Edward J , Bakanda Celestin , Birungi Josephine , Chan Keith , Hogg Robert S , Ford Nathan , Nachega Jean B , Cooper Curtis L
Published: November 2011

Background

Because men in Africa are less likely to access HIV/AIDS care than women, we aimed to determine if men have differing outcomes from women across a nationally representative sample of adult patients receiving combination antiretroviral therapy in Uganda.

Methods

We estimated survival distributions for adult male and female patients using Kaplan‐Meier, and constructed multivariable regressions to model associations of baseline variables with mortality. We assessed person‐years of life lost up to age 55 by sex. To minimize the impact of patient attrition, we assumed a weighted 30% mortality rate among those lost to follow up.

Results

We included data from 22,315 adults receiving antiretroviral therapy. At baseline, men tended to be older, had lower CD4 baseline values, more advanced disease, had pulmonary tuberculosis and had received less treatment follow up (all at p < 0.001). Loss to follow up differed between men and women (7.5 versus 5.9%, p < 0.001). Over the period of study, men had a significantly increased risk of death compared with female patients (adjusted hazard ratio 1.43, 95% CI 1.31‐1.57, p < 0.001). The crude mortality rate for males differed importantly from females (43.9, 95% CI 40.7‐47.0/1000 person‐years versus 26.9, 95% CI 25.4‐28.5/1000 person years, p < 0.001). The probability of survival was 91.2% among males and 94.1% among females at 12 months. Person‐years of life lost was lower for females than males (689.7 versus 995.9 per 1000 person‐years, respectively).

Conclusions

In order to maximize the benefits of antiretroviral therapy, treatment programmes need to be gender sensitive to the specific needs of both women and men. Particular efforts are needed to enroll men earlier into care.
Postcardiac arrest syndrome: from immediate resuscitation to long-term outcome
Authors: Mongardon Nicolas , Dumas Florence , Ricome Sylvie , Grimaldi David , Hissem Tarik , Pène Frédéric , Cariou Alain
Published: November 2011

The prognosis for postcardiac arrest patients remains very bleak, not only because of anoxic-ischemic neurological damage, but also because of the "postcardiac arrest syndrome," a phenomenon often severe enough to cause death before any neurological evaluation. This syndrome includes all clinical and biological manifestations related to the phenomenon of global ischemia-reperfusion triggered by cardiac arrest and return of spontaneous circulation. The main component of the postcardiac arrest syndrome is an early but severe cardiocirculatory dysfunction that may lead to multiple organ failure and death.

Cardiovascular support relies on conventional medical and mechanical treatment of circulatory failure. Hemodynamic stabilization is a major objective to limit secondary brain insult. When the cause of cardiac arrest is related to myocardial infarction, percutaneous coronary revascularization is associated with improved prognosis; early angiographic exploration should then be discussed when there is no obvious extracardiac cause. Therapeutic hypothermia is now the cornerstone of postanoxic cerebral protection. Its widespread use is clearly recommended, with a favorable risk-benefit ratio in selected population. Neuroprotection also is based on the prevention of secondary cerebral damages, pending the results of ongoing therapeutic evaluations regarding the potential efficiency of new therapeutic drugs.
The combined influence of multiple sex and growth hormones on risk of postmenopausal breast cancer: a nested case-control study
Authors: Tworoger Shelley S , Rosner Bernard A , Willett Walter C , Hankinson Susan E
Published: November 2011

Introduction

Sex and growth hormones are positively associated with postmenopausal breast cancer risk. However, few studies have evaluated the influence of multiple hormones simultaneously.

Methods

We considered the roles of estrone, estradiol, estrone sulfate, testosterone, androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), DHEA sulfate and prolactin and, secondarily, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and c-peptide in postmenopausal breast cancer risk among 265 cases and 541 controls in the prospective Nurses' Health Study. We created several hormone scores, including ranking women by the number of hormones above the age- and batch-adjusted geometric mean and weighting hormone values by their individual associations with breast cancer risk.

Results

Women in the top versus bottom quintile of individual estrogen or androgen levels had approximately a doubling of postmenopausal breast cancer risk. Having seven or eight compared to zero hormones above the geometric mean level was associated with total (RR = 2.7, 95% CI = 1.3 to 5.7, P trend < 0.001) and estrogen receptor (ER)-positive (RR = 3.4, 95% CI = 1.3 to 9.4, P trend < 0.001) breast cancer risk. When comparing the top versus bottom quintiles of the score weighted by individual hormone associations, the RR for total breast cancer was 3.0 (95% CI = 1.8 to 5.0, P trend < 0.001) and the RR for ER-positive disease was 3.9 (95% CI = 2.0 to 7.5, P trend < 0.001). The risk further increased when IGF-1 and c-peptide were included in the scores. The results did not change with adjustment for body mass index.

Conclusions

Overall, the results of our study suggest that multiple hormones with high circulating levels substantially increase the risk of breast cancer, particularly ER-positive disease. Additional research should consider the potential impact of developing risk prediction scores that incorporate multiple hormones.
A new technique for first-arrival picking of refracted seismic data based on digital image segmentation
Authors: Mousa Wail A. , Al-Shuhail Abdullatif A. , Al-Lehyani Ayman
Published: November 2011

We introduce a new method for first-arrival picking based on digital color-image segmentation of energy ratios of refracted seismic data. The method uses a new color-image segmentation scheme based on projection onto convex sets (POCS). The POCS requires a reference color for the first break and one iteration to segment the first-break amplitudes from other arrivals. We tested the segmentation method on synthetic seismic data sets with various amounts of additive Gaussian noise. The proposed method gives similar performance to a modified version of Coppens’ method for traces with high signal-to-noise ratio and medium-to-large offsets. Finally, we applied our method and used as well the modified first-arrival picking method based on Coppens’ method to pick the first arrivals on four real data sets, where both were compared to the first breaks that were picked manually and then interpolated. Based on an assessment error of a 20-ms window with respect to manual picks that are interpolated, we find that our method gives comparable performance to Coppens’ method, depending on the data difficulty of picking first arrivals. Therefore, we believe that our proposed method is a good new addition to the existing methods of first-arrival picking.
Ectopic Lipid Accumulation and Reduced Glucose Tolerance in Elderly Adults Are Accompanied by Altered Skeletal Muscle Mitochondrial Activity
Authors: Johannsen Darcy L. , Conley Kevin E. , Bajpeyi Sudip , Punyanitya Mark , Gallagher Dympna , Zhang Zhengyu , Covington Jeffrey , Smith Steven R. , Ravussin Eric
Published: November 2011

Context:

Aging is associated with insulin resistance and unfavorable changes in body composition including increased fat accumulation, particularly in visceral and ectopic depots. Recent studies suggest that skeletal muscle mitochondrial activity may underlie some age-associated metabolic abnormalities.

Objective:

Our objective was to measure mitochondrial capacity and coupling of the vastus lateralis muscle in elderly and young adults using novel in vivo approaches and relate mitochondrial activity to metabolic characteristics.

Design:

This was a cross-sectional study.

Participants and Intervention:

Fourteen sedentary young (seven males and seven females, 20–34 yr of age) and 15 sedentary elderly (seven males and eight females, 70–84 yr of age) nonobese subjects selected for similar body weight underwent measures of body composition by magnetic resonance imaging and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, oral glucose tolerance, and in vivo mitochondrial activity by 31P magnetic resonance and optical spectroscopy. Muscle biopsy was carried out in the same muscle to measure mitochondrial content, antioxidant activity, fiber type, and markers of mitochondrial biogenesis.

Results:

Elderly volunteers had reduced mitochondrial capacity (P = 0.05) and a trend for decreased coupling efficiency (P = 0.08) despite similar mitochondrial content and fiber type distribution. This was accompanied by greater whole-body oxidative stress (P = 0.007), less skeletal muscle mass (P < 0.001), more adipose tissue in all depots (P ≤ 0.002) except intramyocellular (P = 0.72), and lower glucose tolerance (P = 0.07).

Conclusions:

Elderly adults show evidence of altered mitochondrial activity along with increased adiposity, oxidative stress, and reduced glucose tolerance, independent of obesity. We propose that mild uncoupling may be induced secondary to age-associated oxidative stress as a mechanism to dissipate the proton-motive force and protect against further reactive oxygen species production and damage.
Dual pathway spindle assembly increases both the speed and the fidelity of mitosis
Authors: Kaseda Kuniyoshi , McAinsh Andrew D. , Cross Robert A.
Published: November 2011

Roughly half of all animal somatic cell spindles assemble by the classical prophase pathway, in which the centrosomes separate ahead of nuclear envelope breakdown (NEBD). The remainder assemble by the prometaphase pathway, in which the centrosomes separate following NEBD. Why cells use dual pathway spindle assembly is unclear. Here, by examining the timing of NEBD relative to the onset of Eg5-mEGFP loading to centrosomes, we show that a time window of 9.2 ± 2.9 min is available for Eg5-driven prophase centrosome separation ahead of NEBD, and that those cells that succeed in separating their centrosomes within this window subsequently show >3-fold fewer chromosome segregation errors and a somewhat faster mitosis. A longer time window would allow more cells to complete prophase centrosome separation and further reduce segregation errors, but at the expense of a slower mitosis. Our data reveal dual pathway mitosis in a new light, as a substantive strategy that increases both the speed and the fidelity of mitosis.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal spores host bacteria that affect nutrient biodynamics and biocontrol of soil-borne plant pathogens
Authors: Cruz Andre Freire , Ishii Takaaki
Published: November 2011

The aim of this research was to isolate and characterize bacteria from spores of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). We designated these bacteria ‘probable endobacteria’ (PE). Three bacterial strains were isolated from approximately 500 spores of Gigaspora margarita (Becker and Hall) using a hypodermic needle (diameter, 200 μm). The bacteria were identified by morphological methods and on the basis of ribosomal gene sequences as Bacillus sp. (KTCIGM01), Bacillus thuringiensis (KTCIGM02), and Paenibacillus rhizospherae (KTCIGM03). We evaluated the effect of these probable endobacteria on antagonistic activity to the soil-borne plant pathogens (SBPPs) Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lactucae MAFF 744088, Rosellinia necatrix, Rhizoctonia solani MAFF 237426, and Pythium ultimum NBRC 100123. We also tested whether these probable endobacteria affected phosphorus solubilization, ethylene production, nitrogenase activity (NA), and stimulation of AMF hyphal growth. In addition, fresh samples of spores and hyphae were photographed using an in situ scanning electron microscope (SEM) (Quanta 250FEG; FEI Co., Japan). Bacterial aggregates (BAs), structures similar to biofilms, could be detected on the surface of hyphae and spores. We demonstrate that using extraction with an ultrathin needle, it is possible to isolate AMF-associated bacterial species that are likely derived from inside the fungal spores.
Culture parameters for stable expansion, genetic modification and germline transmission of rat pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Blair Kathryn , Leitch Harry G. , Mansfield William , Dumeau Charles-Étienne , Humphreys Peter , Smith Austin G.
Published: November 2011

The ability of cultured pluripotent cells to contribute to the germline of chimaeric animals is essential to their utility for genetic manipulation. In the three years since rat embryonic stem (ES) cells were first reported the anticipated proliferation of genetically modified rat models from this new resource has not been realised. Culture instability, karyotypic anomalies, and strain variation are postulated to contribute to poor germline colonisation capacity. The resolution of these issues is essential to bring pluripotent cell-based genetic manipulation technology in the rat to the level of efficiency achieved in the mouse. Recent reports have described various alternative methods to maintain rat ES cells that include provision of additional small molecules and selective passaging methods. In contrast, we report that euploid, germline competent rat ES and embryonic germ (EG) cell lines can be maintained by simple adherent culture methods in defined medium supplemented with the original two inhibitors (2i) of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (ERK1/2) cascade and of glycogen synthase kinase 3, in combination with the cytokine leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF). We demonstrate genetic modification, clonal expansion and transmission through the germline of rat ES and EG cell lines. We also describe a marked preference for full-term chimaera contribution when SD strain blastocysts are used as recipients for either DA or SD pluripotent stem cells.
Klysimplexins U–X, Eunicellin-Based Diterpenoids from the Cultured Soft Coral Klyxum simplex
Authors: Chen Bo-Wei , Huang Chiung-Yao , Wen Zhi-Hong , Su Jui-Hsin , Wang Wei-Hsien , Sung Ping-Jyun , Wu Yang-Chang , Sheu Jyh-Horng
Published: November 2011

New eunicellin-based diterpenoids, klysimplexins U–X (1–4), were isolated from a cultured soft coral Klyxum simplex. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic methods, particularly in 1D and 2D NMR experiments. The absolute configuration of 2 was determined by Mosher’s method. Compounds 1 and 2 are the first example of 4-oxygenated eunicellin-type diterpenes isolated from soft corals of this genus.
The effect of hematocrit on the results of measurements using glucose meters based on different techniques
Authors: Solnica Bogdan , Skupien Jan , Kusnierz-Cabala Beata , Slowinska-Solnica Krystyna , Witek Przemyslaw , Cempa Agnieszka , Malecki Maciej T.
Published: November 2011

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of hematocrit (HCT) on glucose meter assays based on different measurement techniques.

This paper studied glucose meters utilizing the glucose dehydrogenase reaction and four measurement techniques: colorimetry (HemoCue), reflectometry (Accu-Chek Active), amperometry (Optium Xido) and coulometry (Optium Omega). The EDTA venous blood samples HCT were modified by adding or removing defined aliquots of plasma. Glucose concentration was measured using each meter in 27 batches of blood samples, with HCT ranging from 20% to 60% in 10% increments. The data were analyzed using repeated measures models and a linear random effects model.

A significant relationship between HCT and glucose reading in all meters was found and, for all meters except Optium Xido, there was a significant modification of this relationship by glucose level. The relative decrease in glucose concentration per 1% increase of the HCT value varied from 0.30% for Optium Omega in samples with glucose concentrations <5.55 mmol/L to 1.37% for Optium Xido in the same stratum (p<0.0001). The 5% glucose meter error (the ADA recommendation) was reached in the <5.55 mmol/L stratum after HCT change by 3.9%–16.7%.

There is a significant continuous effect of HCT on measurement accuracy of glucose meters across its wide range of values and glucose concentrations. The most sensitive to the HCT interference was the system utilizing amperometric technique (Optium Xido) followed by the one with reflectometric technique (Accu-Chek Active), while the systems with the coulometric technique (Optium Omega) or colorimetric measurements in whole blood haemolysate (HemoCue) were less sensitive.
Reproductive function in men affected by X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy/adrenomyeloneuropathy
Authors: Stradomska T J , Kubalska J , Janas R , Tylki-Szymańska A
Published: November 2011

Background

X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD) is the most frequent, severely neurodegenerative, clinically heterogeneous peroxisomal disorder, the signs of which are a consequence of myelin, adrenal cortex, and testes impairment.

Objective

We studied testosterone, LH, and FSH levels in X-ALD/adrenomyeloneuropathy (AMN) patients. We evaluate the ability to procreate of these patients by analysis of pedigree and family screening by detection of very long-chain fatty acid (VLCFA) levels.

Subject and methods

Seventeen patients with X-ALD/AMN (16 with AMN and one asymptomatic) aged 24–48 (mean±s.d., 34.7±5.9) years, were identified based on the clinical picture, magnetic resonance imaging, and the presence of increased serum VLCFA levels. Nine X-ALD/AMN patients' daughters, mean ages ±s.d.=7.7±3.8 years, were identified as heterozygote by elevated VLCFA levels.

Serum VLCFA levels were determined as ester derivatives by a gas chromatography method. Serum testosterone, LH, and FSH levels in X-ALD/AMN patients were detected by IRMAs.

Results

Serum testosterone levels were at the lowest levels of normal range but serum LH and FSH concentrations were increased in 57.1 and in 42.9% of X-ALD/AMN patients respectively. Among the 11 investigated of X-ALD/AMN married adult men, nine had produced offspring, a total of 13 children. All patients' daughters showed elevated serum VLCFA at heterozygote levels.

Conclusion

In this study, we report that in a group of X-ALD/AMN married adult men, we did not find a significant decrease in fertility compared with the Polish population (18.2 vs 15%).
High-dose mitotane strategy in adrenocortical carcinoma: prospective analysis of plasma mitotane measurement during the first 3 months of follow-up
Authors: Mauclère-Denost Sophie , Leboulleux Sophie , Borget Isabelle , Paci Angelo , Young Jacques , Al Ghuzlan Abir , Deandreis Desiree , Drouard Laurence , Tabarin Antoine , Chanson Philippe , Schlumberger Martin , Baudin Eric
Published: November 2011

Background

The benefit-to-risk ratio of a high-dose strategy at the initiation of mitotane treatment of adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) remains unknown.

Methods

To evaluate the performance of a high-dose strategy, defined as the highest tolerated dose administered within 2 weeks and maintenance therapy over 4 weeks, we conducted a single-center, prospective study with two main objectives: to evaluate the percentage of patients who achieve a plasma mitotane level above 14 mg/l and to evaluate the tolerance of mitotane within the first 3 months of treatment. Plasma mitotane levels were measured monthly using HPLC.

Results

Twenty-two patients with ACC were prospectively enrolled. The high-dose mitotane strategy (4 g/day or more in all patients, with a median of 6 g/day within 2 weeks) enabled to reach the therapeutic threshold of >14 mg/l at 1, 2, or 3 months in 6/22 patients (27%), 7/22 patients (32%), and 7/22 patients (32%) respectively. In total, a therapeutic plasma mitotane level was reached in 14 out of 22 patients (63.6%) during the first 3 months in ten patients, and after 3 months in four patients. Grade 3–4 neurological or hematological toxicities were observed in three patients (13.6%).

Conclusion

Employing a high-dose strategy at the time of mitotane initiation enabled therapeutic plasma levels of mitotane to be reached within 1 month in 27% of the total group of patients. If this strategy is adopted, we suggest that mitotane dose is readjusted according to plasma mitotane levels at 1 or/and 2 months and patient tolerance.
Primary adrenal angiosarcoma and functioning adrenocortical adenoma: an exceptional combined tumor
Authors: Lepoutre-Lussey Charlotte , Rousseau Audrey , Al Ghuzlan Abir , Amar Laurence , Hignette Chantal , Cioffi Angela , Zinzindohoué Franck , Leboulleux Sophie , Plouin Pierre-François
Published: November 2011

Context

Primary adrenal angiosarcoma is an extremely rare neoplasm, as are combined tumors within a given adrenal lesion.

Clinical presentation and intervention

A 35-year-old man presented with hypokalemic hypertension leading to the discovery of a 6 cm diameter malignant-appearing right adrenal tumor. The lesion displayed marked 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose uptake on positron emission tomography scanning. Endocrine investigations revealed secretion of both cortisol and aldosterone by the neoplasm. The entire right adrenal gland along with the periadrenal fat tissue was removed during laparoscopic surgery.

Results

Histological examination revealed two intermingled tumor cell proliferations, namely an angiosarcoma and an adrenocortical adenoma. An extensive post-operative search revealed no other primary tumor site, nor metastases. The lesion was then considered to be a primary adrenal angiosarcoma combined with a secreting adrenocortical adenoma. The patient received four cycles of chemotherapy (adriamycin/ifosfamide). At 2-year follow-up, he is alive and well, with no sign of relapse.

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of an adrenal neoplasm combining a primary angiosarcoma and a functioning adrenocortical adenoma.
Diverse Tumor Pathology due to Distinctive Patterns of JAK/STAT Pathway Activation Caused by Different Drosophila polyhomeotic Alleles
Authors: Feng Siqian , Thomas Steffi , Wang Jian
Published: November 2011

Drosophila polyhomeotic (ph) is one of the important polycomb group genes that is linked to human cancer. In the mosaic eye imaginal discs, while phdel, a null allele, causes only non-autonomous overgrowth, ph505, a hypomorphic allele, causes both autonomous and non-autonomous overgrowth. These allele-specific phenotypes stem from the different sensitivities of ph mutant cells to the Upd homologs that they secrete.
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus on surfaces of an Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Ferreira Adriano Menis , Andrade Denise de , Rigotti Marcelo Alessandro , Almeida Margarete Teresa Gottardo de
Published: November 2011

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the presence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in areas close to patients in a General Intensive Care Unit. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study, in which microbiological samples were collected from five surfaces (left / right bed siderails, bed crank, table, buttons on the infusion pump, and cotton gowns) from each of ten patient rooms, totaling 63 samples. To collect samples, the Petri FilmTM Staph Express Count System 3M TM was used to screen for methicillin resistance, with the Mueller-Hinton agar supplemented with 4% sodium chloride and 6 µg / ml of oxacillin. Descriptive analysis was conducted to determine the frequency (n) and percentage (%) of contamination of environmental surfaces. RESULTS: Of 48 samples positive for Staphylococcus aureus, 29 (60.4%) were resistant to methicillin. The incidence on the siderails and bed cranks, table, buttons on the infusion pumps and aprons were, respectively, 55.5%, 57.1%, 57.1%, 60.0% and 75.0%. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that the surfaces around the patient constitute a major threat, as they represent secondary reservoirs of MRSA.
Artes de curar e modos de viver na geografia do cangaço
Authors: Oliveira Iranilson Buriti de
Published: November 2011

Discute as práticas de cura, especificamente remédios e ervas, utilizadas pelos cangaceiros do Nordeste brasileiro, na virada do século XIX para o XX. Na análise, recorre-se aos pressupostos teórico-metodológicos da nova história cultural e dos estudos culturais, em diálogo com Michel de Certeau e Stuart Hall, entre outros. Problematiza o modo como os cangaceiros recorriam, em seu cotidiano, a mezinhas, chás, orações a santos católicos, além de produtos da farmacopeia regional, para alcançar a cura e o bem-estar do corpo. Observa como os espaços de cura são recriados e os saberes populares, subjetivados na geografia do cangaço.
Crise não epiléptica psicogênica: história e crítica de um conceito
Authors: Kurcgant Daniela , Ayres José Ricardo de Carvalho Mesquita
Published: November 2011

Discute o desenvolvimento do conhecimento psiquiátrico sobre a crise não epiléptica psicogênica (CNEP), buscando iluminar os pressupostos epistemológicos do conceito e suas implicações práticas. Em sua definição atual, crises ou ataques recorrentes são manifestações comportamentais semelhantes às da epilepsia, mas que dela diferem por não serem consequentes de descargas elétricas cerebrais anormais, podendo ter origem psicogênica. Em direção inversa da metafísica, investiga-se a emergência histórica do conceito de CNEP nos últimos quarenta anos. Conceitos de comorbidade psiquiátrica, abuso e dissociação foram discutidos devido a sua participação na trajetória conceitual de CNEP.
Hydrogels as biomimetic mineralisation scaffolds
Authors: Munro Natasha H. , McGrath Kathryn M.
Published: November 2011

Biominerals are exquisite materials displaying a diversity of length scales and structural patterns. Formed by biological organisms, their physicochemical properties often show little correlation with their mineral cousins. The hierarchical structure results in, for example, superior ageing, durability and strength compared with the constituent components. Inherently, biominerals are hybrid materials made from organic and inorganic components. Nacre for example is formed from calcium carbonate, chitin and proteins. Analysis of biominerals and their mechanism of formation allow determination of the relative importance of each component. This leads to the formulation of synthetic strategies and enable materials scientists to develop biomimetic materials with new properties. A major component of many biominerals is a three-dimensional organic insoluble matrix. This matrix can be replicated synthetically using hydrogels. Acting as the mineralisation scaffold, and hydrogels, which are porous, allow diffusion of mineralisation solutions and/or gases in and out of the scaffold, are typically biocompatible thereby enabling the formation of intimately interpenetrated composite materials to be synthesized. In this review, the current state of knowledge in this area is summarized and literature pertaining to the use of hydrogels as substrates and scaffolds to form organic/inorganic composites is discussed. The use of the resulting materials as implantable and injectable hybrid materials for medical applications is also discussed.
Controlled preparation of drug-exchange phase loaded polymeric fibres
Authors: Sofokleous Panagiotis , Chang Ming-Wei , Ge Ba Yin , Edirisinghe Mohan , Stride Eleanor
Published: November 2011

Encapsulation of materials in fibres with a well-controlled size distribution is an important application of the electrospinning technique. This study investigates the effect of key parameters of the coaxial electrospinning process including flow rate, applied voltage and polymer concentration on the efficient encapsulation and size distribution of perfluorohexane (PFH) in polymethylsilsesquioxane (PMSQ) microfibres. Perfluorohexane can be exchanged for a drug via a simple diffusion-controlled process. By altering the polymer concentration and processing parameters, PMSQ microfibres with different diameters, PFH core size and core-to-core distance were obtained. It was found that PFH-encapsulated fibres with a diameter between 8 and 15 μm can be prepared when the PMSQ concentration is kept between 55–70 wt%. The PFH regions (cores) encapsulated in the fibre are uniformly distributed and of size 5–14 μm. The core-to-core distance significantly increased from 4 μm to 22 μm when the applied voltage was increased from 8 kV to 11 kV. These results indicate a potential strategy for controlling fibre diameter, core size and core-to-core distance by using coaxial electrospinning as the forming procedure and thus this work will help to advance biomedical engineering applications, for example, drug delivery, scaffolding for tissue engineering and wound dressing.
Modelling a low-carbon city
Authors: Menichetti Dario , van Vuren Tom
Published: November 2011

In a Middle Eastern environment typified by very rapid development growth, a strong emphasis on use of the car, low fuel costs, an evolving public transport system, an extremely aggressive climate and a complex socio-economic framework, Masdar City in Abu Dhabi aspires to become of one of the most sustainable cities in the world. Gaining from the experience in Masdar City, this paper explores and highlights the general requirements and challenges in developing a modelling system to assist with the sustainable planning and implementation of an integrated virtually carbon dioxide-neutral transport system, which includes the option of an innovative electric transport system such as personal rapid transit (PRT). The paper identifies travel demand and supply characteristics to be considered and explains the specific modelling requirements compared with more conventional situations. Key considerations are the quantification of demand patterns, determination of public transport and PRT patronage, the integration between external and internal systems and verification of the performance of all system components.