bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interleukin (IL)-4 Induces Leukocyte Infiltration In Vivo by an Indirect Mechanism
Authors: Ratthé Claude , Ennaciri Jamila , Garcês Gonçalves David M. , Chiasson Sonia , Girard Denis
Published: September 2009

Interleukin (IL)-4 is a cytokine known mainly for its anti-inflammatory activity. Using the in vivo murine air pouch model, we found that IL-4 significantly increased the number of leukocytes after 9 hours of treatment, consisting mainly of neutrophil (60%) and monocytic (40%) cell populations. Using an antibody array, we found that the expression of several analytes (predominantly CCL2) was increased by IL-4 before the arrival of leukocytes. The IL-4-induced expression of CCL-2 was confirmed by ELISA. Air pouch resident lining cells were harvested and were found to express IL-4Rα. CCL2 mRNA expression was monitored in lining cells, cells isolated from the air pouch skin, in RAW264.7 macrophage and in epithelial Mode-K cells and its expression was increased in response to IL-4 in all conditions. We conclude that IL-4 can attract leukocytes in vivo by an indirect mechanism involving the production of several analytes by, at least, resident cells.
The Response of Creatine Kinase Specific Activity in Rat Pituitary to Estrogenic Compounds and Vitamin D Less-Calcemic Analogs
Authors: Somjen D. , Mirsky N. , Tamir S. , Vaya J. , Posner G. H. , Kaye A. M.
Published: September 2009

We examined the response of rat female pituitary at different metabolic stages to treatments with estrogenic compounds and vitamin D analogs. Immature or ovariectomized (Ovx) female rats responded by increased creatine kinase specific activity (CK) to estradiol-17β(E2), genistein (G), daidzein (D), biochainin A (BA), quecertin (Qu), carboxy- G (cG), carboxy- BA (cBA), and raloxifene (Ral). The response was inhibited when Ral was injected together with the estrogens. CK was increased when hormones were injected daily into Ovx rats for 4 different time periods. Pretreatment with the less-calcemic vitamin D analogs JK 1624F2-2 (JKF) or QW 1624F2-2 (QW) followed by estrogenic injection resulted in increased response and sensitivity toE2and loss of inhibition ofE2by Ral. CK was also increased by feeding withE2or licorice or its components dose- and time- dependent in immature or Ovxrats. Diabetic female rats did not respond to increased doses ofE2. In conclusion, rat female pituitary is estrogens-responsive organ, suggesting to consider its response for HRT in postmenopausal women for both beneficial and hazardous aspects.
New Exact Solutions of the Brusselator Reaction Diffusion Model Using the Exp‐Function Method
Authors: Khani F. , Samadi F. , Hamedi-Nezhad S.
Published: September 2009

Firstly, using a series of transformations, the Brusselator reaction diffusion
model is reduced into a nonlinear reaction diffusion equation, and then through
using Exp‐function method, more new exact solutions are found which contain
soliton solutions. The suggested algorithm is quite efficient and is practically
well suited for use in these problems. The results show the reliability and
efficiency of the proposed method.
Genetic Programming and Standardization in Water Temperature Modelling
Authors: Arganis Maritza , Val Rafael , Prats Jordi , Rodríguez Katya , Domínguez Ramón , Dolz Josep
Published: September 2009

An application of Genetic Programming (an evolutionary computational tool) without and with standardization data is presented with the aim of modeling the behavior of the water temperature in a river in terms of meteorological variables that are easily measured, to explore their explanatory power and to emphasize the utility of the standardization of variables in order to reduce the effect of those with large variance. Recorded data corresponding to the water temperature behavior at the Ebro River, Spain, are used as analysis case, showing a performance improvement on the developed model when data are standardized. This improvement is reflected in a reduction of the mean square error. Finally, the models obtained in this document were applied to estimate the water temperature in 2004, in order to provide evidence about their applicability to forecasting purposes.
On Series Solutions for MHD Plane and Axisymmetric Flow Near a Stagnation Point
Authors: Abbasbandy S. , Hayat T.
Published: September 2009

This investigation presents a mathematical model describing the momentum, heat
and mass transfer characteristics of magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) flow and heat
generating/absorbing fluid near a stagnation point of an isothermal two‐dimensional
body of an axisymmetric body. The fluid is electrically conducting in the presence
of a uniform magnetic field. The series solution is obtained for the resulting coupled
nonlinear differential equation. Homotopy analysis method (HAM) is utilized in
obtaining the solution. Numerical values of the skin friction coefficient and the wall
heat transfer coefficient are also computed.
ArterioVenous Malformation within Jejunal Diverticulum: An Unusual Cause of Massive Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Authors: Lee Jeffrey K. , Carethers John M. , Ghosh Pradipta
Published: September 2009

Massive gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding can occur with multiple jejunal diverticulosis. However, significant bleeding in the setting of few diverticulae is very unusual and rare. We report a case of massive gastrointestinal bleeding from an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) within a jejunal diverticulum to underscore the significance of such coexisting pathologies. Mesenteric angiogram was chosen to help identify the source of bleeding and to offer an intervention. Despite endovascular coiling, emergent intestinal resection of the bleeding jejunal segment was warranted to ensure definitive treatment. However several reports have shown jejunal diverticulosis as a rare cause of massive GI bleeding. The coexistence of jejunal diverticulum and AVM is rare and massive bleeding from an acquired Dieulafoy-like AVM within a diverticulum has never previously been described. Awareness of Dieulafoy-like AVM within jejunoileal diverticulosis is useful in preventing delay in treatment.
Malignant Rhabdoid Tumour of the Liver in the Young Adult: Report of First Two Cases
Authors: Marzano Ettore , Lermite Emilie , Nobili Cinzia , Teyssedou Carlos , Bachellier Philippe , Arnaud Jean-Pierre , Pessaux Patrick
Published: September 2009

Few cases of malignant rhabdoid tumour (MRT) of the liver are reported in literature and
always in paediatric patients. We report the first two cases of young adults submitted to hepatic resection for MRT of the liver. A major liver resection was performed in both cases. The histology showed round or fusiform, loosely cohesive cells. The cytoplasm contained
abundant eosinophilic inclusions, which caused the nuclei to be located in eccentric locations, giving the characteristic rhabdoid appearance. The immunohistochemical study was performed, and characteristic lack of nuclear INI1 protein expression was found. In a case surgery was associated to chemoradiotherapy. One patient died at 48 months followup for tumour recurrence. The other is still alive at 25 months followup. MRTs are rare tumours of pediatric age with poor prognosis. Hypothetical less malignant
behaviour in the young adults could be supposed. Therefore an aggressive surgical and oncological treatment seems justified.
Monstrous Births and Medical Networks: Debates over Forensic Evidence, Generation Theory, and Obstetrical Authority in France, ca. 1780-1815
Authors: Quinlan Sean
Published: September 2009

In France between 1780 and 1815, doctors opened a broad correspondence with medical faculties and public officials about foetal anomalies ("monstrosities"). Institutional and legal reforms forced doctors to encounter monstrous births with greater frequency, and they responded by developing new ideas about heredity and embryology to explain malformations to public officials. Though doctors achieved consensus on pathogenesis, they struggled to apply these ideas in forensic cases, especially with doubtful sex. Medical networks simultaneously allowed doctors to explore obstetrical techniques, as licensing regulations forced practitioners into emotional encounters with child anomalies. Doctors thus developed a new ethics for treating monstrosities, viewing them as pathological specimens, forensic objects, and obstetrical tragedies.
The Mine and the Furnace: Francis Bacon, Thomas Russell, and Early Stuart Mining Culture
Authors: Pastorino Cesare
Published: September 2009

Notwithstanding Francis Bacon's praise for the philosophical role of the mechanical arts, historians have often downplayed Bacon's connections with actual artisans and entrepreneurs. Addressing the specific context of mining culture, this study proposes a rather different picture. The analysis of a famous mining metaphor in The Advancement of Learning shows us how Bacon's project of reform of knowledge could find an apt correspondence in civic and entrepreneurial values of his time. Also, Bacon had interesting and so far unexplored links with the early modern English mining enterprises, like the Company of Mineral and Battery Works, of which he was a shareholder. Moreover, Bacon's notes in a private notebook, Commentarius Solutus, and records of patents of invention, allow us to start grasping Bacon's connections with the metallurgist and entrepreneur Thomas Russell. Lastly, this paper argues that, to fully understand Bacon's links with the world of Stuart technicians and entrepreneurs, it is necessary to consider a different and insufficiently studied aspect of Bacon's interests, namely his work as patents referee while a Commissioner of Suits.
Multi-annual variation in female morph frequencies of the polymorphic damselfly, Nehalennia irene, at continental and regional scales
Authors: Iserbyt Arne , Bots Jessica , Ting Janice , Jvostov Felipe Pérez , Forbes Mark , Sherratt Thomas , Van Gossum Hans
Published: September 2009

Female-limited polymorphism occurs in different animal taxa but is particularly abundant among species of damselflies (Insecta: Odonata), most likely as a consequence of selection to avoid excessive male harassment. Recent work on the damselfly Nehalennia irene indicated that within year spatial variation in female morph frequencies was limited in nearby populations (i.e. intra-regional scale), but large at a continental scale. As anticipated, some of the observed variation in morph frequency was correlated with variation in the estimated degree of male harassment towards female morphs, measured by male density and operational sex ratio. Here, we extended earlier work by quantifying variation in morph frequency over two to three years, allowing us to elucidate how morph frequencies vary temporally at both intra-regional and continental scales (data for 8 populations over three years and for 33 populations over two years, respectively). Annual variation in morph frequencies was relatively high at the intra-regional scale, but was never large enough to obscure the underlying spatial pattern at the continental scale. At both geographic scales, male density and operational sex ratio were highly variable between years. The estimated degree of male harassment correlated with variation in morph frequency within some regions, but not all. Together, the observed natural variation in female morph frequencies may be partly explained by variation in male harassment, but it appears that a complete understanding will require considering the role of other environmental factors.
Prevalence of trypanosomes from Clarius batrachus (Linnaeus) of Purba Medinipur, West Bengal, India
Authors: Bag Sujoy , Bandyopadhyay Probir
Published: September 2009

Haemoflagellates of the genus Trypanosoma Gruby, 1843 are prevalent in fresh water fishes and are transmitted by leech. A total of 133 Clairus batrachus were examined for haemoflagelates. The fishes were collected from ponds and water bodies of Purba Medinipur district, West Bengal, India, from January, 2006 to July, 2007. The slides were prepared taking blood from both males (97) and females (36). It was found that only 19 out of 36 (52.78%) females and 31 out of 97 (31.95%) males were infected. Thus females were recorded with a higher prevalence of trypanosome infection than males. There was a significant difference (P<0.05) in the infection rate with trypanosomes in males and females.
Non-visual sensory physiology and magnetic orientation in the Blind Cave Salamander, Proteus anguinus (and some other cave-dwelling urodele species). Review and new results on light-sensitivity and non-visual orientation in subterranean urodeles (Amphibia)
Authors: Schlegel Peter , Steinfartz Sebastian , Bulog Boris
Published: September 2009

A review is given on several sensory systems that enable troglophile and troglobian urodele species to orient non-visually in their extreme hypogean habitat. A new sense was discovered allowing the animals to orient according to the Earth's magnetic field, which could serve as a basic and always available reference for general spatial orientation. Moreover, working with permanent magnetic field stimuli offers a very sensitive experimental method to discover the urodeles' thresholds for other sensory modalities such as light, sounds, and other stimuli, perhaps in competition or combination with the magnetic one. Proteus' audition as underwater hearing and light sensitivity due to its partly remaining sensory cells and/or skin sensitivity were studied. Excellent underwater hearing abilities had been demonstrated for Proteus with an acoustic behavioural method. The ability of sound pressure registration in Proteus is supposed to be attained by the tight anatomical junction between the ceiling of the oral cavity and the oval window. More generally, all non-visual sensory capabilities may facilitate certain behavioral strategies, compensating for missing visual orientation. Troglobians are more likely than others to own and regularly use the sensorial opportunities of a magnetic sense for spatial orientation. Compared to their epigean relatives, cave animals may have retained phylogenetically older sensorial properties, transformed or improved them, or finally acquired new ones which enabled them to successfully survive in dark habitats. Neighbor populations living on surface did not necessarily take advantage of these highly evolved sensory systems and orientation strategies of the troglobian species and may have lost them. E.g. Desmognathus ochrophaeus is partly adapted to cave life and exhibits good magnetic sensitivity, whereas, D. monticula and D. quadrimaculatus are epigean and, although living in rather dark places, did not demonstrate magnetic sensitivity when tested with our method.
Studies on Morphology and Thermomechanical Behavior of Polyethylene Glycol/1,8-Octanediol-modified Epoxy-organoclay Hybrid Nanocomposites
Authors: Chozhan C. Karikal , Elumalai P. , Alagar M.
Published: September 2009

Organoclay-filled polyethylene glycol (PEG)/1,8-octanediol (OCT)-modified epoxy matrices were developed. Epoxy systems modified with 10, 20, and 30 wt% of PEG/OCT were made by using diglycidyl ethers of bisphenol A epoxy resin and PEG/OCT with 4,4′-diaminodiphenylmethane as curing agent. The PEG/OCT-modified epoxy systems were further modified with 1, 3, and 5 wt% of organoclay. The thermal behavior of organoclay-filled PEG/OCT-modified epoxy matrices were characterized using differential scanning calorimeter, thermogravimetric analysis, and dynamic mechanical analysis. Mechanical properties were studied as per ASTM standards. Three percent organoclay-filled PEG-modified epoxy possesses high storage modulus (6240 MPa) compared to 3% organoclay-filled OCT-modified epoxy (5064 MPa). The values of impact strength for 3% organoclay filled PEG and OCT modified epoxy systems are 122 and 85.5 J/m, respectively. Homogeneous and heterogeneous morphology was ascertained from scanning electron microscope. From the X-ray diffraction analysis, it was observed that the absence of d001 reflections in organoclay-filled PEG/OCT-modified epoxy systems indicated the formation of exfoliated nanohybrids. The significant improvement in impact strength was achieved without any reduction in glass transition temperature (Tg) due to the addition of organoclay. Thermal stability with better char yield and improved impact strength were attained during the formation of nanocomposites due to the increment of organoclay in PEG/ OCT-modified epoxy systems.
Micromechanical Strength Modeling and Investigation of Stitch Density Effects on 3D Orthogonal Composites
Authors: Karkkainen Ryan L. , Tzeng Jerome T.
Published: September 2009

A 3D orthogonal woven S2-glass composite is investigated using finite element micromechanics to characterize the stiffness and the strength. The methods are applied to a targeted parametric investigation of the effects of stitch density on strength properties and potential benefits of through-thickness reinforcement, such as resistance to transverse shear and delamination, with some consequent loss of in-plane properties. Direct modeling of the exact microstructure from scanning electron microscope visualization provides a precise knowledge of the mechanics and the failure modes of the microstructure under various loading conditions. Modeling results are verified by comparison to experimental data. In-plane stiffness and strength are predicted with 90% or better accuracy. Transverse shear stiffness was less well predicted, but strength was still predicted within 86% accuracy.
Strengthening of Masonry Walls Using Hybrid-fiber Engineered Cementitious Composite
Authors: Lin V.W.J. , Quek S.T. , Nguyen M.P. , Maalej M.
Published: September 2009

In this article, the experimental results of hybrid-fiber engineered cementitious composite (HFECC)-strengthened masonry walls subjected to quasi-static out-of-plane loadings are reported. The aim is to assess the extent to which HFECC-strengthening systems can improve the out-of-plane resistance of unreinforced masonry walls. A total of 12 masonry panels were fabricated and tested in the laboratory under both patch load and uniformly distributed load. Test results showed significant improvement of HFECC-strengthened masonry wall’s performance against out-of-plane loadings. To provide design aid for such HFECC-strengthened masonry walls, simplified theoretical models were also developed to predict its out-of-plane ultimate load-carrying capacities based on the observed failure mechanisms. The theoretically predicted values compared favorably with experimental data.
The Biosocial Correlates of Neuropsychological Deficits: Results From the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health
Authors: Beaver Kevin M. , Vaughn Michael G. , DeLisi Matt , Higgins George E.
Published: September 2009

A body of empirical research has revealed that neuropsychological functioning is one of the most consistent predictors of antisocial behavior. It is somewhat surprising however that criminological research has been slow to examine the different factors that are implicated in the development of neuropsychological deficits. This study addresses this gap in the literature by examining the effects that a number of social and biological variables have on neuropsychological functioning. Analysis of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health) indicates that postnatal exposure to cigarette smoke, duration of breastfeeding, maternal involvement, and household income predicts variation in adolescent and adulthood levels of neuropsychological functioning. Implications of the findings are noted and discussed.
‘‘Intraventricular’’ Hemorrhage and Cystic Periventricular Leukomalacia in Preterm Infants: How Are They Related?
Authors: Kusters Cynthia D. J. , Chen Minghua L. , Follett Pamela L. , Dammann Olaf
Published: September 2009

Intraventricular hemorrhage and cystic periventricular leukomalacia are often co-occurring characteristics of brain damage in preterm infants. Using data from 1016 infants born before 30 completed weeks’ gestational age, we sought to clarify the relationship between severe intraventricular hemorrhage and cystic periventricular leukomalacia, with special emphasis on common antecedents and potential confounding. After comparing risk factors for intraventricular hemorrhage grades 1 through 4 and cystic periventricular leukomalacia, it appears the risk patterns for intraventricular hemorrhage grade 3, intraventricular hemorrhage grade 4, and cystic periventricular leukomalacia differ. The association between intraventricular hemorrhage grade 3 and cystic periventricular leukomalacia differs appreciably from the association between intraventricular hemorrhage grade 4 and cystic periventricular leukomalacia, supporting the notion that intraventricular hemorrhage grade 3 and intraventricular hemorrhage grade 4 are different entities. The presence of intraventricular hemorrhage grade 3 and intraventricular hemorrhage grade 4 increases the risk of cystic periventricular leukomalacia, even after adjusting for potential confounders. This raises the possibility that intraventricular hemorrhage grade 3 and intraventricular hemorrhage grade 4 cause cystic periventricular leukomalacia.
Performance at Exascale
Authors: Mohr Bernd , Müller Matthias S. , Nagel Wolfgang E.
Published: September 2009

Exascale systems will consist of complex configurations with a huge number of potentially heterogeneous components. Deep software hierarchies of large, complex software components will be required to make use of such systems. While the software layers are designed to be transparent, they are typically not transparent with respect to performance. This performance non-transparency will result in escalation of unforeseen problems to higher layers, including the application. Altogether this will require an integrated and collaborative approach to handling performance issues and correctly detecting and analyzing performance problems. Contributions to this integrated approach are required from areas such as system design, operating software, and programming models, as well as performance modeling, monitoring, and analysis.
Towards Exascale Distributed Data Management
Authors: Aloisio Giovanni , Fiore Sandro
Published: September 2009

“Exascale eScience infrastructures” will face important and critical challenges, both from computational and data perspectives. Increasingly complex and parallel scientific codes will lead to the production of a huge amount of data. The large volume of data and the time needed to locate, access, analyze and visualize data will greatly impact on the scientific productivity of scientists and researchers in several domains. Significant improvements in the data management field will increase research productivity in solving complex scientific problems. Next-generation eScience infrastructures will start from the assumption that exascale high-performance computing (HPC) applications (running on million of cores) will generate data at a very high rate (terabytes/s). Hundreds of exabytes of data (distributed across several centers) are expected, by 2020, to be available through heterogeneous storage resources for access, analysis, post-processing and other scientific activities.
Acute effects of tobacco smoke on human airway dendritic cellsin vivo
Authors: Lommatzsch M. , Bratke K. , Knappe T. , Bier A. , Dreschler K. , Kuepper M. , Stoll P. , Julius P. , Virchow J. C.
Published: September 2009

Airway dendritic cells (DCs) play a key role in smoke-related lung diseases; however, the acute effects of tobacco smoke on human airway DCsin vivoare unknown.

A total of 16 smokers underwent bronchoalveolar lavage at two time-points: directly after a 4-h period of nonsmoking (no smoke exposure); and directly after a 4-h period during which eight cigarettes were smoked (acute smoke exposure). Using flow cytometry, myeloid DCs (mDCs) and plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs), as well as function-associated surface molecules on mDCs, were analysed in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and in blood.

The numbers of macrophages, lymphocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils and pDCs were unchanged in BALF following acute smoke exposure, as compared to no smoke exposure. In contrast, there was a strong increase in mDC number in BALF and a concomitant decrease in mDC number in blood following acute smoke exposure. In addition, acute smoke exposure led to an increase in the expression of the surface molecules blood dendritic cell antigen 1 and 4 and a decrease in the expression of the lung homing receptor, CC chemokine receptor 5, on mDCs in BALF.

Acute tobacco smoke inhalation results in an immediate and selective recruitment of mDCs into human airways, which might reflect the very early reaction of the adaptive immune system to smoke exposure.
The Borg dyspnoea score: a relevant clinical marker of inspiratory muscle weakness in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Just N. , Bautin N. , Danel-Brunaud V. , Debroucker V. , Matran R. , Perez T.
Published: September 2009

The aim of the study was to determine whether the Borg dyspnoea scale could be a useful and simple marker to predict respiratory muscle weakness in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

From April 1997 to 2001, respiratory function was perfomed in 72 patients together with the Borg score in both the upright (uBorg) and supine (sBorg) positions.

Mean upright vital capacity (VC) was 81±24% predicted, sniff nasal inspiratory pressure (SNIP) was 55±26% pred, maximal inspiratory pressure (PI,max) was 57±26% pred and arterial carbon dioxide tension (Pa,CO2) was 41±6 mmHg. The mean Borg scores in the upright and supine positions were 1.7±1.5 and 2.2±2, respectively. A significant relationship between SNIP and uBorg (r = 0.4; p = 0.0007) and SNIP and sBorg (r = 0.58; p<0.0001) was observed. Upright VC, ΔVC (measured as the supine fall in VC as a percentage of seated VC),PI,maxandPa,CO2were significantly correlated with SNIP. A cut-off value of 3 on the sBorg scale provided the best sensitivity (80%) and specificity (78%) (area under the curve 0.8) to predict a SNIP ≤40 cmH2O, indicating severe inspiratory muscle weakness. Patients with a sBorg score ≥3 also exhibited significantly lower VC,PI,maxand twitch mouth pressure during cervical magnetic stimulation, and slightly higherPa,CO2(43.7±7versus39.2±5 mmHg; p = 0.05).

The Borg dyspnoea scale is a valuable noninvasive test for the prediction of inspiratory muscle weakness in ALS patients.
CASSIOPE: An expert system for conserved regions searches
Authors: Rascol Virginie Lopez , Levasseur Anthony , Chabrol Olivier , Grusea Simona , Gouret Philippe , Danchin Etienne GJ , Pontarotti Pierre
Published: September 2009

Background

Understanding genome evolution provides insight into biological mechanisms. For many years comparative genomics and analysis of conserved chromosomal regions have helped to unravel the mechanisms involved in genome evolution and their implications for the study of biological systems. Detection of conserved regions (descending from a common ancestor) not only helps clarify genome evolution but also makes it possible to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) and investigate gene function.

The identification and comparison of conserved regions on a genome scale is computationally intensive, making process automation essential. Three key requirements are necessary: consideration of phylogeny to identify orthologs between multiple species, frequent updating of the annotation and panel of compared genomes and computation of statistical tests to assess the significance of identified conserved gene clusters.

Results

We developed a modular system superimposed on a multi-agent framework, called CASSIOPE (Clever Agent System for Synteny Inheritance and Other Phenomena in Evolution). CASSIOPE automatically identifies statistically significant conserved regions between multiple genomes based on automated phylogenies and statistical testing. Conserved regions were searched for in 19 species and 1,561 hits were found. To our knowledge, CASSIOPE is the first system to date that integrates evolutionary biology-based concepts and fulfills all three key requirements stated above. All results are available at http://194.57.197.245/cassiopeWeb/displayCluster?clusterId=1

Conclusion

CASSIOPE makes it possible to study conserved regions from a chosen query genetic region and to infer conserved gene clusters based on phylogenies and statistical tests assessing the significance of these conserved regions.

Source code is freely available, please contact: Pierre.pontarotti@univ-provence.fr
Evolutionary conservation and changes in insect TRP channels
Authors: Matsuura Hironori , Sokabe Takaaki , Kohno Keigo , Tominaga Makoto , Kadowaki Tatsuhiko
Published: September 2009

Background

TRP (Transient Receptor Potential) channels respond to diverse stimuli and thus function as the primary integrators of varied sensory information. They are also activated by various compounds and secondary messengers to mediate cell-cell interactions as well as to detect changes in the local environment. Their physiological roles have been primarily characterized only in mice and fruit flies, and evolutionary studies are limited. To understand the evolution of insect TRP channels and the mechanisms of integrating sensory inputs in insects, we have identified and compared TRP channel genes in Drosophila melanogaster, Bombyx mori, Tribolium castaneum, Apis mellifera, Nasonia vitripennis, and Pediculus humanus genomes as part of genome sequencing efforts.

Results

All the insects examined have 2 TRPV, 1 TRPN, 1 TRPM, 3 TRPC, and 1 TRPML subfamily members, demonstrating that these channels have the ancient origins in insects. The common pattern also suggests that the mechanisms for detecting mechanical and visual stimuli and maintaining lysosomal functions may be evolutionarily well conserved in insects. However, a TRPP channel, the most ancient TRP channel, is missing in B. mori, A. mellifera, and N. vitripennis. Although P. humanus and D. melanogaster contain 4 TRPA subfamily members, the other insects have 5 TRPA subfamily members. T. castaneum, A. mellifera, and N. vitripennis contain TRPA5 channels, which have been specifically retained or gained in Coleoptera and Hymenoptera. Furthermore, TRPA1, which functions for thermotaxis in Drosophila, is missing in A. mellifera and N. vitripennis; however, they have other Hymenoptera-specific TRPA channels (AmHsTRPA and NvHsTRPA). NvHsTRPA expressed in HEK293 cells is activated by temperature increase, demonstrating that HsTRPAs function as novel thermal sensors in Hymenoptera.

Conclusion

The total number of insect TRP family members is 13-14, approximately half that of mammalian TRP family members. As shown for mammalian TRP channels, this may suggest that single TRP channels are responsible for integrating diverse sensory inputs to maintain the insect sensory systems. The above results demonstrate that there are both evolutionary conservation and changes in insect TRP channels. In particular, the evolutionary processes have been accelerated in the TRPA subfamily, indicating divergence in the mechanisms that insects use to detect environmental temperatures.
Comparative EST transcript profiling of peach fruits under different post-harvest conditions reveals candidate genes associated with peach fruit quality
Authors: Vizoso Paula , Meisel Lee A , Tittarelli Andrés , Latorre Mariano , Saba Juan , Caroca Rodrigo , Maldonado Jonathan , Cambiazo Veronica , Campos-Vargas Reinaldo , Gonzalez Mauricio , Orellana Ariel , Silva Herman
Published: September 2009

Background

Cold storage is used to inhibit peach fruit ripening during shipment to distant markets. However, this cold storage can negatively affect the quality of the fruit when it is ripened, resulting in disorders such as wooliness, browning or leathering. In order to understand the individual and combined biological effects that factors such as cold storage and ripening have on the fruit and fruit quality, we have taken a comparative EST transcript profiling approach to identify genes that are differentially expressed in response to these factors.

Results

We sequenced 50,625 Expressed Sequence Tags (ESTs) from peach mesocarp(Prunus persicaO'Henry variety) stored at four different postharvest conditions. A total of 10,830 Unigenes (4,169 contigs and 6,661 singletons) were formed by assembling these ESTs. Additionally, a collection of 614 full-length and 1,109 putative full-length cDNA clones within flanking loxP recombination sites was created.

Statistically analyzing the EST population, we have identified genes that are differentially expressed during ripening, in response to cold storage or the combined effects of cold storage and ripening. Pair-wise comparisons revealed 197 contigs with at least one significant difference in transcript abundance between at least two conditions. Gene expression profile analyses revealed that the contigs may be classified into 13 different clusters of gene expression patterns. These clusters include groups of contigs that increase or decrease transcript abundance during ripening, in response to cold or ripening plus cold.

Conclusion

These analyses have enabled us to statistically identify novel genes and gene clusters that are differentially expressed in response to post-harvest factors such as long-term cold storage, ripening or a combination of these two factors. These differentially expressed genes reveal the complex biological processes that are associated with these factors, as well as a large number of putative gene families that may participate differentially in these processes. In particular, these analyzes suggest that woolly fruits lack the increased boost of metabolic processes necessary for ripening. Additionally, these results suggest that the mitochondria and plastids play a major role in these processes. The EST sequences and full-length cDNA clones developed in this work, combined with the large population of differentially expressed genes may serve as useful tools and markers that will enable the scientific community to better define the molecular processes that affect fruit quality in response to post-harvest conditions and the organelles that participate in these processes.
Gene expression profiling of human alveolar macrophages infected by B. anthracisspores demonstrates TNF-α and NF-κb are key components of the innate immune response to the pathogen
Authors: Dozmorov Mikhail , Wu Wenxin , Chakrabarty Kaushik , Booth J Leland , Hurst Robert E , Coggeshall K Mark , Metcalf Jordan P
Published: September 2009

Background

Bacillus anthracis, the etiologic agent of anthrax, has recently been used as an agent of bioterrorism. The innate immune system initially appears to contain the pathogen at the site of entry. Because the human alveolar macrophage (HAM) plays a key role in lung innate immune responses, studying the HAM response to B. anthracis is important in understanding the pathogenesis of the pulmonary form of this disease.

Methods

In this paper, the transcriptional profile of B. anthracis spore-treated HAM was compared with that of mock-infected cells, and differentially expressed genes were identified by Affymetrix microarray analysis. A portion of the results were verified by Luminex protein analysis.

Results

The majority of genes modulated by spores were upregulated, and a lesser number were downregulated. The differentially expressed genes were subjected to Ingenuity Pathway analysis, the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) analysis, the Promoter Analysis and Interaction Network Toolset (PAINT) and Oncomine analysis. Among the upregulated genes, we identified a group of chemokine ligand, apoptosis, and, interestingly, keratin filament genes. Central hubs regulating the activated genes were TNF-α, NF-κB and their ligands/receptors. In addition to TNF-α, a broad range of cytokines was induced, and this was confirmed at the level of translation by Luminex multiplex protein analysis. PAINT analysis revealed that many of the genes affected by spores contain the binding site for c-Rel, a member of the NF-κB family of transcription factors. Other transcription regulatory elements contained in many of the upregulated genes were c-Myb, CP2, Barbie Box, E2F and CRE-BP1. However, many of the genes are poorly annotated, indicating that they represent novel functions. Four of the genes most highly regulated by spores have only previously been associated with head and neck and lung carcinomas.

Conclusion

The results demonstrate not only that TNF-α and NF-κb are key components of the innate immune response to the pathogen, but also that a large part of the mechanisms by which the alveolar macrophage responds to B. anthracis are still unknown as many of the genes involved are poorly annotated.
Pancreatic cancerrelated cachexia: influence on metabolism and correlation to weight loss and pulmonary function
Authors: Bachmann Jeannine , Ketterer Knut , Marsch Christiane , Fechtner Kerstin , Krakowski-Roosen Holger , Büchler Markus W , Friess Helmut , Martignoni Marc E
Published: September 2009

Background

Dramatic weight loss is an often underestimated symptom in pancreatic cancer patients. Cachexia- defined as an unintended loss of stable weight exceeding 10% – is present in up to 80% of patients with cancer of the upper gastrointestinal tract, and has a significant influence on survival. The aim of the study was to show the multiple systemic effects of cachexia in pancreatic cancer patients, in terms of resection rate, effects on pulmonary function, amount of fat and muscle tissue, as well as changes in laboratory parameters.

Methods

In patients with pancreatic cancer, clinical appearance was documented, including the amount of weight loss. Laboratory parameters and lung-function tests were evaluated, and the thickness of muscle and fat tissue was measured with computed tomography scans. Statistical analysis, including multivariate analysis, was performed using SPSS software. Survival curves were calculated using Kaplan-Meier analysis and the log-rank test. To test for significant differences between the examined groups we used Student's t-test and the Mann-Whitney U test. Significance was defined as p < 0.05.

Results

Of 198 patients with a ductal adenocarcinoma of the pancreas, 70% were suffering from weight loss when they presented for operation, and in 40% weight loss exceeded 10% of the stable weight. In patients with cachexia, metastases were diagnosed significantly more often (47% vs. 24%, P < 0.001), leading to a significantly reduced resection rate in these patients. Patients with cachexia had significantly reduced fat tissue amounts. Hence, dramatic weight loss in a patient with pancreatic cancer may be a hint of a more progressed or more aggressive tumour.

Conclusion

Pancreatic cancer patients with cachexia had a higher rate of more progressed tumour stages and a worse nutritional status. Furthermore, patients with cachexia had an impaired lung function and a reduction in fat tissue. Patients with pancreatic cancer and cachexia had significantly reduced survival. If weight loss exceeded 5% there was a significantly reduced resection rate to detect, but the changes were significantly more substantial if weight loss was 10% or more. We propose that a weight loss of 10% be defined as significant in pancreatic cancer.
Evaluating Active U: an internet-mediated physical activity program
Authors: Buis Lorraine R , Poulton Timothy A , Holleman Robert G , Sen Ananda , Resnick Paul J , Goodrich David E , Palma-Davis LaVaughn , Richardson Caroline R
Published: September 2009

Background

Engaging in regular physical activity can be challenging, particularly during the winter months. To promote physical activity at the University of Michigan during the winter months, an eight-week Internet-mediated program (Active U) was developed providing participants with an online physical activity log, goal setting, motivational emails, and optional team participation and competition.

Methods

This study is a program evaluation of Active U. Approximately 47,000 faculty, staff, and graduate students were invited to participate in the online Active U intervention in the winter of 2007. Participants were assigned a physical activity goal and were asked to record each physical activity episode into the activity log for eight weeks. Statistics for program reach, effectiveness, adoption, and implementation were calculated using the Re-Aim framework. Multilevel regression analyses were used to assess the decline in rates of data entry and goal attainment during the program, to assess the likelihood of joining a team by demographic characteristics, to test the association between various predictors and the number of weeks an individual met his or her goal, and to analyze server load.

Results

Overall, 7,483 individuals registered with the Active U website (≈16% of eligible), and 79% participated in the program by logging valid data at least once. Staff members, older participants, and those with a BMI < 25 were more likely to meet their weekly physical activity goals, and average rate of meeting goals was higher among participants who joined a competitive team compared to those who participated individually (IRR = 1.28, P < .001).

Conclusion

Internet-mediated physical activity interventions that focus on physical activity logging and goal setting while incorporating team competition may help a significant percentage of the target population maintain their physical activity during the winter months.
Road traffic noise and hypertension: results from a cross-sectional public health survey in southern Sweden
Authors: Bodin Theo , Albin Maria , Ardö Jonas , Stroh Emilie , Östergren Per-Olof , Björk Jonas
Published: September 2009

Background

Results from studies of road traffic noise and hypertension are heterogeneous with respect to effect size, effects among males and females and with respect to effects across age groups. Our objective was to further explore these associations.

Methods

The study used cross-sectional public health survey data from southern Sweden, including 24,238 adults (18 - 80 years old). We used a geographic information system (GIS) to assess the average road noise (LAeq 24 hr) at the current residential address. Effects on self-reported hypertension were estimated by logistic regression with adjustment for age, sex, BMI, alcohol intake, exercise, education, smoking and socioeconomic status.

Results

Modest exposure effects (OR ≈ 1.1) were generally noted in intermediate exposure categories (45 -64 dB(A)), and with no obvious trend. The effect was more pronounced at > 64 dB(A) (OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.04 - 2.02). Age modified the relative effect (p = 0.018). An effect was seen among middle-aged (40 - 59 years old) at noise levels 60 - 64 dB(A) (OR = 1.27, 95% CI 1.02 - 1.58)) and at > 64 dB(A) (OR = 1.91, 95% CI 1.19 - 3.06)). An effect was also indicated among younger adults but not among elderly. No apparent effect modification by gender, country of origin, disturbed sleep or strained economy was noted.

Conclusion

The study supports an association between road traffic noise at high average levels and self-reported hypertension in middle-aged. Future studies should use age group -specific relative effect models to account for differences in prevalence.
Comprehensive molecular etiology analysis of nonsyndromic hearing impairment from typical areas in China
Authors: Yuan Yongyi , You Yiwen , Huang Deliang , Cui Jinghong , Wang Yong , Wang Qiang , Yu Fei , Kang Dongyang , Yuan Huijun , Han Dongyi , Dai Pu
Published: September 2009

Background

Every year, 30,000 babies are born with congenital hearing impairment in China. The molecular etiology of hearing impairment in the Chinese population has not been investigated thoroughly. To provide appropriate genetic testing and counseling to families, we performed a comprehensive investigation of the molecular etiology of nonsyndromic deafness in two typical areas from northern and southern China.

Methods

A total of 284 unrelated school children with hearing loss who attended special education schools in China were enrolled in this study, 134 from Chifeng City in Inner Mongolia and the remaining 150 from Nangtong City in JiangSu Province. Screening was performed for GJB2, GJB3, GJB6, SLC26A4, 12S rRNA, and tRNA

ser(UCN)genes in this population. All patients with SLC26A4 mutations or variants were subjected to high-resolution temporal bone CT scan to verify the enlarged vestibular aqueduct.

Results

Mutations in the GJB2 gene accounted for 18.31% of the patients with nonsyndromic hearing loss, 1555A>G mutation in mitochondrial DNA accounted for 1.76%, and SLC26A4 mutations accounted for 13.73%. Almost 50% of the patients with nonsyndromic hearing loss in these typical Chinese areas carried GJB2 or SLC26A4 mutations. No significant differences in mutation spectrum or prevalence of GJB2 and SLC26A4 were found between the two areas.

Conclusion

In this Chinese population, 54.93% of cases with hearing loss were related to genetic factors. The GJB2 gene accounted for the etiology in about 18.31% of the patients with hearing loss, SLC26A4 accounted for about 13.73%, and mtDNA 1555A>G mutation accounted for 1.76%. Mutations in GJB3, GJB6, and mtDNA tRNA

ser(UCN)were not common in this Chinese cohort. Conventionally, screening is performed for GJB2, SLC26A4, and mitochondrial 12S rRNA in the Chinese deaf population.
Covariate balance in a Bayesian propensity score analysis of beta blocker therapy in heart failure patients
Authors: McCandless Lawrence C , Gustafson Paul , Austin Peter C , Levy Adrian R
Published: September 2009

Regression adjustment for the propensity score is a statistical method that reduces confounding from measured variables in observational data. A Bayesian propensity score analysis extends this idea by using simultaneous estimation of the propensity scores and the treatment effect. In this article, we conduct an empirical investigation of the performance of Bayesian propensity scores in the context of an observational study of the effectiveness of beta-blocker therapy in heart failure patients. We study the balancing properties of the estimated propensity scores. Traditional Frequentist propensity scores focus attention on balancing covariates that are strongly associated with treatment. In contrast, we demonstrate that Bayesian propensity scores can be used to balance the association between covariates and the outcome. This balancing property has the effect of reducing confounding bias because it reduces the degree to which covariates are outcome risk factors.