bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non‐invasive monitoring of oxidative skin stress by ultraweak photon emission measurement. II: biological validation on ultraviolet A‐stressed skin
Authors: Hagens Ralf , Khabiri Faryar , Schreiner Volker , Wenck Horst , Wittern Klaus‐Peter , Duchstein Hans‐Jürgen , Mei Weiping
Published: October 2007

Background/purpose: Several physical or chemical environmental stressors generate reactive oxygen species, which trigger oxidation reactions of cells or tissues and thereby induce a correlated ultraweak photon emission (UPE) signal. The present study was designed to qualify and validate UPE measurement following ultraviolet (UV) excitation of porcine and human skin as an analytical method to assess the potency of topical antioxidants in vivo.

Methods: UPE of porcine skin in vitro and human skin in vivo following excitation with UVA was recorded using sensitive photomultiplier systems. For validation purposes, the effects of variation of extrinsic and intrinsic parameters encompassing skin thickness, humidity, temperature, pH, and composition of the surrounding atmosphere were assessed. Signals were analyzed with regard to overall signal intensity and spectral distribution. In two clinical trials enrolling 20 volunteers each, the effects of topical antioxidant treatment on UVA‐induced UPE were validated.

Results: Different stressors encompassing exposition to ozone, UVA irradiation, or even cigarette smoke induced UPE of skin. Critical parameters affecting the quality and quantity of the UPE signal were the spectral composition of the exciting UV light, skin temperature, skin humidity, and the O2 concentration of the surrounding atmosphere. Generally, UVA‐induced UPE decreased with increasing temperature, humidity, and O2 concentration. Skin pH had no significant effect on UPE with regard to signal quality and quantity over a pH range of 2.8–8.2. In a clinical study UPE measurement following UVA excitation could precisely reflect a dose‐dependent antioxidant effect of topically applied vitamin C and α‐glucosylrutin.

Conclusion: Our data indicate that UVA irradiation induces UPE especially in deeper (living) skin layers, where antioxidants must be active in order to interfere with accelerated skin ageing. Based on the clinical data, and with knowledge of modulating external variables, UPE measurement following UV excitation can be qualified as a reliable and valid method for the non‐invasive measurement of antioxidant efficacy on the skin.
Moving Mitochondria: Establishing Distribution of an Essential Organelle
Authors: Frederick Rebecca L. , Shaw Janet M.
Published: October 2007

Mitochondria form a dynamic network responsible for energy production, calcium homeostasis and cell signaling. Appropriate distribution of the mitochondrial network contributes to organelle function and is essential for cell survival. Highly polarized cells, including neurons and budding yeast, are particularly sensitive to defects in mitochondrial movement and have emerged as model systems for studying mechanisms that regulate organelle distribution. Mitochondria in multicellular eukaryotes move along microtubule tracks. Actin, the primary cytoskeletal component used for transport in yeast, has more subtle functions in other organisms. Kinesin, dynein and myosin isoforms drive motor‐based movement along cytoskeletal tracks. Milton and syntabulin have recently been identified as potential organelle‐specific adaptor molecules for microtubule‐based motors. Miro, a conserved GTPase, may function with Milton to regulate transport. In yeast, Mmr1p and Ypt11p, a Rab GTPase, are implicated in myosin V‐based mitochondrial movement. These potential adaptors could regulate motor activity and therefore determine individual organelle movements. Anchoring of stationary mitochondria also contributes to organelle retention at specific sites in the cell. Together, movement and anchoring ultimately determine mitochondrial distribution throughout the cell.
A Heparan Sulfate‐Facilitated and Raft‐Dependent Macropinocytosis of Eosinophil Cationic Protein
Authors: Fan Tan‐Chi , Chang Hao‐Teng , Chen I‐Wen , Wang Hsiu‐Yiu , Chang Margaret Dah‐Tsyr
Published: October 2007

Eosinophil cationic protein (ECP), a human RNAseA superfamily member, highly implicated in asthma pathology, is toxic to bronchial epithelial cells following its endocytosis. The mechanism by which ECP is internalized into cells is poorly understood. In this study, we show that cell surface‐bound heparan sulfate proteoglycans serve as the major receptor for ECP internalization. Removal of cell surface heparan sulfate by heparinases or reducing glycan sulfation by chlorate markedly decreased ECP binding to human bronchial epithelial Beas‐2B cells. In addition, ECP uptake and associated cytotoxicity were reduced in glycosaminoglycan‐defective cells compared with their wild‐type counterparts. Furthermore, pharmacological treatment combined with siRNA knockdown identified a clathrin‐ and caveolin‐independent endocytic pathway as the major route for ECP internalization. This pathway is regulated by Rac1 and ADP‐ribosylating factor 6 GTPases. It requires cholesterol, actin cytoskeleton rearrangement and phosphatidylinositol‐3‐kinase activities, and is compatible with the characteristics of raft‐dependent macropinocytosis. Thus, our results define the early events of ECP internalization and may have implications for novel therapeutic design for ECP‐associated diseases.
Trafficking of the bZIP Transmembrane Transcription Factor CREB‐H into Alternate Pathways of ERAD and Stress‐Regulated Intramembrane Proteolysis
Authors: Bailey Daniel , Barreca Cristina , O’Hare Peter
Published: October 2007

CREB‐H is an ATF6‐related, transmembrane transcription factor that, in response to endoplasmic reticulum (ER)‐associated stress, is cleaved by Golgi proteases and transported to the nucleus to effect appropriate adaptive responses. We characterize the ER processing and turnover of CREB‐H with results which have important implications for ER stress regulation and signalling. We show that CREB‐H is glycosylated and demonstrate that both the ER and nuclear forms of CREB‐H have short half‐lives. We also show that CREB‐H is subject to cycles of retrotranslocation, deglycosylation and degradation through the ER‐associated degradation (ERAD) pathway. Proteasome inhibition resulted in accumulation of a cytosolic intermediate but additionally, in contrast to inhibition of glycosylation, promoted specific cleavage of CREB‐H and nuclear transport of the N‐terminal‐truncated product. Our data indicate that under normal conditions CREB‐H is transported back from the ER to the cytosol, where it is subject to ERAD, but under conditions that repress proteasome function or promote load CREB‐H is diverted from this pathway instead undergoing cleavage and nuclear transport. Finally, we identify a cytoplasmic determinant involved in CREB‐H ER retention, deletion of which results in constitutive Golgi transport and corresponding cleavage. We present a model where cellular stresses may be sensed at different levels by different members of the basic and leucine zipper domain transmembrane proteins.
A vacuum technique to increase anterior thickness of athletic mouthguards to achieve a full‐balanced occlusion
Authors: Nakajima Kazunori , Takeda Tomotaka , Kawamura Shintaro , Shibusawa Mami , Nara Kazuhiko , Kaoru Naito , Ishigami Keiichi
Published: October 2007

Abstract –  A full‐balanced occlusion is essential for mouthguards. It has been reported that a balanced occlusion for upper and lower anterior teeth is essential for prevention of injuries occurring to the maxillary anterior teeth and alveolar bone caused by horizontal direct impact. The support of the mandibular teeth through the mouthguard is critical to prevent maxillary front tooth injury from a direct impact force. However, some vacuum mouthguard designs may not achieve a full‐balanced occlusion. For example, when a player has a malocclusion, an elongated molar or premolar tooth, an open bite, a large over jet or a maxillary protrusion. An improved vacuum fabrication method is necessary to obtain full balanced occlusion in these cases as opposed to conventional vacuum type single‐layer mouthguard technique.
Hypoplasminogenaemia, gingival swelling and ulceration
Authors: Scully C , Gokbuget A , Kurtulus I
Published: October 2007

This article reviews the evolution of the history related to an unusual type of generalized gingival swelling we first described in a single adult British patient; then recognized by us and others in small cohorts in Turkey; later found in several countries worldwide. We finally recognized it to represent the oral manifestations of plasminogen deficiency (hypoplasminogenaemia).
Oral biofilms, periodontitis, and pulmonary infections
Authors: Paju S , Scannapieco FA
Published: October 2007

Bacteria from the oral biofilms may be aspirated into the respiratory tract to influence the initiation and progression of systemic infectious conditions such as pneumonia. Oral bacteria, poor oral hygiene, and periodontitis seem to influence the incidence of pulmonary infections, especially nosocomial pneumonia episodes in high‐risk subjects. Improved oral hygiene has been shown to reduce the occurrence of nosocomial pneumonia, both in mechanically‐ventilated hospital patients and non‐ventilated nursing home residents. It appears that oral colonization by potential respiratory pathogens, possibly fostered by periodontitis, and possibly by bacteria specific to the oral cavity or to periodontal diseases contribute to pulmonary infections. Thus, oral hygiene will assume an even more important role in the care of high‐risk subjects – patients in the hospital intensive care and the elderly. The present paper critically reviews the recent literature on the effect of oral biofilms and periodontitis on pneumonia.
Mucosal graft‐vs‐host disease
Authors: Lew J , Smith JA
Published: October 2007

Graft‐vs‐host disease (GVHD) is a serious complication of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Indications for HSCT have greatly expanded, and more patients are undergoing HSCT today than ever before. In addition, the options for immunosuppressive therapy for both prevention and treatment of GVHD have also expanded. These changes have in turn altered the landscape of this disease. We have reviewed the current literature on this subject and presented an update on this disease with a particular emphasis on mucosal manifestations.
Necrobiotic xanthogranuloma with paraproteinemia; an atypical case
Authors: Ito Yoshiyuki , Nishimura Keisuke , Yamanaka Kei‐ichi , Hakamada Arata , Isoda Ken‐ichi , Kurokawa Ichiro , Mizutani Hitoshi
Published: October 2007

Necrobiotic xanthogranuloma (NXG) is a rare marker for paraproteinemia. An 86‐year‐old woman had a one year history of large red‐yellow to brown annular plaques involving all limbs. Biopsies showed a non‐palisading granuloma with numerous multinucleated giant cells showing prominent elastophagocytosis and extensive areas of necrobiosis throughout the entire dermis. Complete loss of elastic fibers was observed in the central atrophic area of an annular plaque. Small vascular thromboses were also present. Laboratory findings revealed paraproteinemia of IgG‐lambda type. Immunohistochemical staining detected the presence of roughly equal numbers of IgG‐lambda‐and IgG‐kappa‐staining plasma cells in the dermis. We diagnosed NXG with paraproteinemia with monoclonal gammopathy (IgG‐lambda type) of unknown significance.
Leg ulcer progression caused by topical anesthesia with EMLA® cream
Authors: Stahl Maren , Meyer Cora , Haas Ellen , Glaenz Thomas , Zutt Markus
Published: October 2007

While treating a 63‐year‐old woman with leg ulcerations, we observed an unusual phenomenon. A wound débridement was planned to remove adherent necrotic material.After topical anesthesia with a lidocaine‐prilocaine mixture (EMLA® cream) a hemorrhagic,livid margin area developed around the ulcer 90 minutes after application.The area turned necrotic over days and the center was débrid‐ed.

A more detailed history revealed that similar necrosis had occurred previously when EMLA® cream had been employed.We interpreted the current event,as well as the past episodes,as a pathological reaction of the small cutaneous blood vessels to EMLA® cream. The history also revealed an overlap connective tissue disease with microvascular impairment.

After exposure to the topical anesthetics, the pre‐damaged cutaneous blood vessels presumably produced a critical ischemia with subsequent necrosis. Based on this case, we recommend careful use of EMLA® cream with frequent monitoring for necrosis when treating patients with a known disorder of microcirculation.
HIV‐associated Kaposi sarcoma: pathogenesis and therapy
Authors: Potthoff Anja , Brockmeyer Norbert H.
Published: October 2007

While classical Kaposi sarcoma is a slowly progressing tumor, AIDS‐related Kaposi sarcoma is much more aggressive. After introduction of antiretroviral therapy and with the use of well‐ tolerated chemotherapeutic agents, complete remission of the tumor can be achieved. Local therapeutic options include excision,cryosurgery,radiation and alitretinoin gel.In 45 % of patients with more than 400/μl CD4+ lymphocytes,interferon‐alpha induces complete remission. New concepts of pathogenesis lead to therapeutic targets, such as inhibition of angiogenesis.
Osmosensing and signaling in the regulation of mammalian cell function
Authors: Schliess Freimut , Reinehr Roland , Häussinger Dieter
Published: October 2007

Volume changes of mammalian cells as induced by either anisoosmolarity or under isoosmotic conditions by hormones, substrates and oxidative stress critically contribute to the regulation of metabolism, gene expression and the susceptibility to stress. Osmosensing (i.e. the registration of cell volume) triggers signal transduction pathways towards effector sites (osmosignaling), which link alterations of cell volume to a functional outcome. This minireview summarizes recent progress in the understanding of how osmosensing and osmosignaling integrate into the overall context of growth factor signaling and the execution of apoptotic programs.
Structural and thermodynamic analyses of Escherichia coli RNase HI variant with quintuple thermostabilizing mutations
Authors: Haruki Mitsuru , Tanaka Masaki , Motegi Takehiko , Tadokoro Takashi , Koga Yuichi , Takano Kazufumi , Kanaya Shigenori
Published: October 2007

A combination of five thermostabilizing mutations, Gly23→Ala, His62→Pro, Val74→Leu, Lys95→Gly, and Asp134→His, has been shown to additively enhance the thermostability of Escherichia coli RNase HI [Akasako A, Haruki M, Oobatake M & Kanaya S (1995) Biochemistry34, 8115–8122]. In this study, we determined the crystal structure of the protein with these mutations (5H‐RNase HI) to analyze the effects of the mutations on the structure in detail. The structures of the mutation sites were almost identical to those of the mutant proteins to which the mutations were individually introduced, except for G23A, for which the structure of the single mutant protein is not available. Moreover, only slight changes in the backbone conformation of the protein were observed, and the interactions of the side chains were almost conserved. These results indicate that these mutations almost independently affect the protein structure, and are consistent with the fact that the thermostabiling effects of the mutations are cumulative. We also determined the protein stability curve describing the temperature dependence of the free energy of unfolding of 5H‐RNase HI to elucidate the thermostabilization mechanism. The maximal stability for 5H‐RNase HI was as high as that for the cysteine‐free variant of Thermus thermophilus RNase HI. In contrast, the heat capacity of unfolding for 5H‐RNase H was similar to that for E. coli RNase HI, which is considerably higher than that for T. thermophilus RNase HI. These results suggest that 5H‐RNase HI is stabilized, in part, by the thermostabilization mechanism adopted by T. thermophilus RNase HI.
Submitochondrial localization of 6‐N‐trimethyllysine dioxygenase − implications for carnitine biosynthesis
Authors: van Vlies Naomi , Ofman Rob , Wanders Ronald J. A. , Vaz Frédéric M.
Published: October 2007

The first enzyme of carnitine biosynthesis is the mitochondrial 6‐N‐trimethyllysine dioxygenase, which converts 6‐N‐trimethyllysine to 3‐hydroxy‐6‐N‐trimethyllysine. Using progressive membrane solubilization with digitonin and protease protection experiments, we show that this enzyme is localized in the mitochondrial matrix. Latency experiments with intact mitochondria showed that 3‐hydroxy‐6‐N‐trimethyllysine formation is limited by 6‐N‐trimethyllysine transport across the mitochondrial inner membrane. Because the subsequent carnitine biosynthesis enzymes are cytosolic, after production, 3‐hydroxy‐6‐N‐trimethyllysine must be transported out of the mitochondria by a putative mitochondrial 6‐N‐trimethyllysine/3‐hydroxy‐6‐N‐trimethyllysine transporter system. This transport system represents an additional step in carnitine biosynthesis that could have considerable implications for the regulation of carnitine biosynthesis.
Natriuretic peptides affect Pseudomonas aeruginosa and specifically modify lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis
Authors: Veron Wilfried , Lesouhaitier Olivier , Pennanec Xaviera , Rehel Karine , Leroux Philippe , Orange Nicole , Feuilloley Marc G. J.
Published: October 2007

Natriuretic peptides of various forms are present in animals and plants, and display structural similarities to cyclic antibacterial peptides. Pretreatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 with brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) or C‐type natriuretic peptide (CNP) increases bacterium‐induced glial cell necrosis. In eukaryotes, natriuretic peptides act through receptors coupled to cyclases. We observed that stable analogs of cAMP (dibutyryl cAMP) and cGMP (8‐bromo‐cGMP) mimicked the effect of brain natriuretic peptide and CNP on bacteria. Further evidence for the involvement of bacterial cyclases in the regulation of P. aeruginosa PAO1 cytotoxicity by natriuretic peptides is provided by the observed doubling of intrabacterial cAMP concentration after exposure to CNP. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) extracted from P. aeruginosa PAO1 treated with both dibutyryl cAMP and 8‐bromo‐cGMP induces higher levels of necrosis than LPS extracted from untreated bacteria. Capillary electrophoresis and MALDI‐TOF MS analysis have shown that differences in LPS toxicity are due to specific differences in the structure of the macromolecule. Using a strain deleted in the vfr gene, we showed that the Vfr protein is essential for the effect of natriuretic peptides on P. aeruginosa PAO1 virulence. These data support the hypothesis that P. aeruginosa has a cyclic nucleotide‐dependent natriuretic peptide sensor system that may affect virulence by activating the expression of Vfr and LPS biosynthesis.
Nck‐1 selectively modulates eIF2αSer51 phosphorylation by a subset of eIF2α‐kinases
Authors: Cardin Eric , Latreille Mathieu , Khoury Chamel , Greenwood Michael T. , Larose Louise
Published: October 2007

Phosphorylation of the α‐subunit of the eukaryotic initiation factor 2 (eIF2) on Ser51 is an early event associated with the down‐regulation of protein synthesis at the level of translation and initiation of a transcriptional program. This constitutes a potent mechanism to overcome various stress conditions. In mammals, four eIF2α‐kinases [PKR‐like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK), dsRNA‐activated protein kinase (PKR), heme regulated inhibitor (HRI) and general control nonderepressible‐2 (GCN2)], activated following specific stresses, have been shown to be involved in this process. In this article, we report that the ubiquitously expressed adaptor protein Nck, composed only of Src homology domains and classically implicated in cell signaling by activated plasma membrane receptor tyrosine kinases, modulates eIF2α‐kinase‐mediated eIF2αSer51 phosphorylation in a specific manner. Our results show that Nck not only prevents eIF2α phosphorylation upon PERK activation, as reported previously, but also reduces eIF2α phosphorylation in conditions leading to PKR and HRI activation. By contrast, the overexpression of Nck in mammalian cells fails to attenuate eIF2αSer51 phosphorylation in response to amino acid starvation, a stress well known to activate GCN2. This observation is further confirmed by showing that Nck fails to alter eIF2αSer51 phosphorylation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, for which the sole eIF2α‐kinase is Gcn2p. Our results suggest the existence of a novel mechanism that specifically modulates the phosphorylation of eIF2α on Ser51 under various stress conditions.
Interaction analysis of the heterotrimer formed by the phosphatase 2A catalytic subunit, α4 and the mammalian ortholog of yeast Tip41 (TIPRL)
Authors: Smetana Juliana H. C. , Zanchin Nilson I. T.
Published: October 2007

Type 2A serine/threonine phosphatases are part of the PPP subfamily that is formed by PP2A, PP4 and PP6, and participate in a variety of cellular processes including transcription, translation, regulation of the cell cycle, signal transduction and apoptosis. PP2A is found predominantly as a heterotrimer formed by the catalytic subunit (C) and by a regulatory (B, B′ or B′′) and a scaffolding (A) subunit. Yeast Tap42p and Tip41p are regulators of type 2A phosphatases, playing antagonistic roles in the target of rapamycin signaling pathway. α4 and target of rapamycin signaling pathway regulator‐like (TIPRL) are the respective mammalian orthologs of Tap42p and Tip41p. α4 has been characterized as an essential protein implicated in cell signaling, differentiation and survival; by contrast, the role of mammalian TIPRL is still poorly understood. In this study, a yeast two‐hybrid screen revealed that TIPRL interacts with the C‐terminal region of the catalytic subunits of PP2A, PP4 and PP6. Τhe TIPRL‐interacting region on the catalytic subunit was mapped to residues 210–309 and does not overlap with the α4‐binding region, as shown by yeast two‐hybrid and pull‐down assays using recombinant proteins. TIPRL and α4 can bind PP2Ac simultaneously, forming a stable ternary complex. Reverse two‐hybrid assays revealed that single amino acid substitutions on TIPRL including D71L, I136T, M196V and D198N can block its interaction with PP2Ac. TIPRL inhibits PP2Ac activity in vitro and forms a rapamycin‐insensitive complex with PP2Ac and α4 in human cells. These results suggest the existence of a novel PP2A heterotrimer (α4:PP2Ac:TIPRL) in mammalian cells.
Role of active‐site residues of dispersin B, a biofilm‐releasing β‐hexosaminidase from a periodontal pathogen, in substrate hydrolysis
Authors: Manuel Suba G. A. , Ragunath Chandran , Sait Hameetha B. R. , Izano Era A. , Kaplan Jeffrey B. , Ramasubbu Narayanan
Published: October 2007

Dispersin B (DspB), a family 20 β‐hexosaminidase from the oral pathogen Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, cleaves β(1,6)‐linked N‐acetylglucosamine polymer. In order to understand the substrate specificity of DspB, we have undertaken to characterize several conserved and nonconserved residues in the vicinity of the active site. The active sites of DspB and other family 20 hexosaminidases possess three highly conserved acidic residues, several aromatic residues and an arginine at subsite −1. These residues were mutated using site‐directed mutagenesis and characterized for their enzyme activity. Our results show that a highly conserved acid pair in β‐hexosaminidases D183 and E184, and E332 play a critical role in the hydrolysis of the substrates. pH activity profile analysis showed a shift to a higher pH (6.8) in the optimal activity for the E184Q mutant, suggesting that this residue might act as the acid/base catalyst. The reduction in kcat observed for Y187A and Y278A mutants suggests that the Y187 residue (unique to DspB) located on a loop might play a role in substrate specificity and be a part of subsite +1, whereas the hydrogen‐bond interaction between Y278A and the N‐acetyl group might help to stabilize the transition state. Mutation of W237 and W330 residues abolished hydrolytic activity completely suggesting that alteration at these positions might collapse the binding pocket for the N‐acetyl group. Mutation of the conserved R27 residue (to R27A or R27K) also caused significant reduction in kcat suggesting that R27 might be involved in stabilization of the transition state. From these results, we conclude that in DspB, and possibly in other structurally similar family 20 hydrolases, some residues at the active site assist in orienting the N‐acetyl group to participate in the substrate‐assisted mechanism, whereas other residues such as R27 and E332 assist in holding the terminal N‐acetylglucosamine during the hydrolysis.
Does Forest Fragmentation and Selective Logging Affect Seed Predators and Seed Predation Rates of Prunus africana (Rosaceae)?
Authors: Farwig Nina , Bleher Bärbel , von der Gönna Sabine , Böhning‐Gaese Katrin
Published: October 2007

Forest fragmentation and selective logging can influence the life cycle of tropical tree species at several levels, e.g., by lowering pollination, by limiting seed dispersal, and by increasing seed predation. Understanding human‐induced modifications in ecosystem processes such as seed predation is essential for conservation management of threatened species. We studied the impact of forest fragmentation and selective logging on seed predation of the endangered tree Prunus africana in the tropical rain forest of Kakamega, Kenya. We quantified the activity of seed predators in the main forest, forest fragments, and in sites of different logging intensity in the dry and rainy seasons of 2003 and 2006. Further, we performed predation experiments with single and groups of P. africana seeds in the same sites. We recorded a tendency toward higher activity of seed predators in the main forest compared to fragmented sites. Single seeds, in contrast to groups of seeds, had marginally significantly higher predation rates in intensively logged compared to moderately logged sites. Overall, predation rates showed little relationship to seed predator activity and were highly variable among years and seasons. Additional studies on seedling establishment and survival are needed to predict whether the endangered tree is able to maintain sustainable populations in Kakamega Forest. Only by studying all processes in the life cycle is it possible to develop sound management strategies for the species.
Effects of Forest Use on Aphyllophoraceous Fungal Community Structure in Sarawak, Malaysia
Authors: Yamashita Satoshi , Hattori Tsutomu , Kuniyasu Momose , Nakagawa Michiko , Aiba Masahiro , Nakashizuka Tohru
Published: October 2007

Aphyllophoraceous fungi are expected to reflect changes in the environmental conditions caused by forest use. To reveal the effects of forest uses on the fungal community structure, we performed a 3‐month survey of aphyllophoraceous species in five forest types (undisturbed primary forest, isolated patches of primary forest, old and young fallow forest, and rubber plantations) in Sarawak, Malaysia in 2005. We used a canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) to reveal the relationships between fungal community composition and the environmental variables (canopy openness, soil water potential, amount and composition of coarse woody debris, litter mass, basal area, plant species composition). A total of 155 samples from 67 species were collected during the study period. The fungal species density represented by the number of species in a transect differed significantly among forest types. The fungal species density increased significantly with increasing number of pieces of coarse woody debris (CWD), but decreased significantly with increasing the scores of second axis of principal component analysis (PCA) for plant species composition. In the CCA ordination, automatic forward selection revealed that only the number of pieces of CWD significantly affected the fungal species composition. The occurrences of Flabellophora licmophora, Coriolopsis retropicta, Microporus vernicipes, and Amauroderma subrugosum were positively correlated with the number of pieces of CWD. Our study clearly demonstrated that forest use negatively affected aphyllophoraceous fungal diversity and suggest that the quantity of CWD would be an important determinant of fungal diversity and composition.
Discovery of 21-cm absorption in a zabs = 2.289 damped Lyman α system towards TXS 0311+430: the first low spin temperature absorber at z > 1
Authors: York Brian A. , Kanekar Nissim , Ellison Sara L. , Pettini Max
Published: October 2007

We report the detection of H i 21-cm absorption from the z= 2.289 damped Lyman α system (DLA) towards TXS 0311+430 with the Green Bank Telescope. The 21-cm absorption has a velocity spread (between nulls) of ∼110 km s−1 and an integrated optical depth of . We also present new Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope 602-MHz imaging of the radio continuum. TXS 0311+430 is unresolved at this frequency, indicating that the covering factor of the DLA is likely to be high. Combining the integrated optical depth with the DLA H i column density of yields a spin temperature of Ts= (138 ± 36) K, assuming a covering factor of unity. This is the first case of a low spin temperature (<350 K) in a z > 1 DLA and is among the lowest temperatures ever measured in any DLA. Indeed, the Ts measured for this DLA is similar to values measured in the Milky Way and local disc galaxies. We also determine a lower limit (Si/H) ≳ 1/3 solar for the DLA metallicity, amongst the highest abundances measured in DLAs at any redshift. Based on low-redshift correlations, the low Ts, large 21-cm absorption width and high metallicity all suggest that the z∼ 2.289 DLA is likely to arise in a massive, luminous disc galaxy.
Healthy and Safe School Environment, Part II, Physical School Environment: Results From the School Health Policies and Programs Study 2006
Authors: Jones Sherry Everett , Axelrad Robert , Wattigney Wendy A.
Published: October 2007

Background: As society continues to focus on the importance of academic achievement, the physical environment of schools should be addressed as 1 of the critical factors that influence academic outcomes. The School Health Policies and Programs Study (SHPPS) 2006 provides, for the first time, a comprehensive look at the extent to which schools have health‐promoting physical school environment policies and programs.

Methods: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention conducts the SHPPS every 6 years. In 2006, computer‐assisted telephone interviews or self‐administered mail questionnaires were completed by state education agency personnel in all 50 states and the District of Columbia and among a nationally representative sample of school districts (n = 424). Computer‐assisted personal interviews were conducted with personnel in a nationally representative sample of elementary, middle, and high schools (n = 992).

Results: One third (35.4%) of districts and 51.4% of schools had an indoor air quality management program; 35.3% of districts had a school bus engine‐idling reduction program; most districts and schools had a policy or plan for how to use, label, store, dispose of, and reduce the use of hazardous materials; 24.5% of states required districts or schools to follow an integrated pest management program; and 13.4% of districts had a policy to include green design when building new school buildings or renovating existing buildings.

Conclusions: SHPPS 2006 results can guide education and health agency actions in developing and implementing evidence‐based tools, policies, programs, and interventions to ensure a safe and healthy physical school environment.
Family and Community Involvement in Schools: Results From the School Health Policies and Programs Study 2006
Authors: Michael Shannon , Dittus Patricia , Epstein Joyce
Published: October 2007

Background:  Family and community involvement in schools is linked strongly to improvements in the academic achievement of students, better school attendance, and improved school programs and quality.

Methods:  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention conducts the School Health Policies and Programs Study every 6 years. In 2006, computer‐assisted telephone interviews or self‐administered mail questionnaires were completed by state education agency personnel in all 50 states plus the District of Columbia and among a nationally representative sample of school districts (n = 461). Computer‐assisted personal interviews were conducted with personnel in a nationally representative sample of elementary, middle, and high schools (n = 1029) and with a nationally representative sample of teachers of required health education classes and courses (n = 912) and required physical education classes and courses (n = 1194).

Results:  Although family and community involvement in states, districts, and schools was limited, many states, districts, and schools collaborated with community groups and agencies to promote and support school health programs. More than half of districts and schools communicated information to families on school health program components. Teachers in 55.5% of required health education classes and courses and 30.8% of required physical education classes and courses gave students homework or projects that involved family members.

Conclusions:  Although family and community involvement occurred at all levels, many schools are not doing some of the fundamental things schools could do to increase family involvement. Improvements in family and community involvement can support school health programs in states, districts, schools, and classrooms nationwide.
Anticancer Activity of Selected Phenolic Compounds: QSAR Studies Using Ridge Regression and Neural Networks
Authors: Nandi Sisir , Vracko Marjan , Bagchi Manish C.
Published: October 2007

Phenol and its congeners are known to induce caspase‐mediated apoptosis activity and cytotoxicity on various cancer cell lines. Apoptosis, scavenging of radicals, antioxidant, and pro‐oxidant characteristics are primarily responsible for the antitumor activities of phenolic compounds. Quantitative structure–activity relationship studies on the cellular apoptosis and cytotoxicity of phenolic compounds have been investigated recently by Selassie and colleagues (J Med Chem;48:7234, 2005) wherein models were developed for various carcinogenic cell lines. These quantitative structure–activity relationship models are based on few experimentally obtained physicochemical parameters such as Verloop’s sterimol descriptor, hydrophobicity, Hammett electronic parameter, and octanol/water partition coefficient. The paper deals with structure–activity relationships of phenols and its derivatives for the development of predictive models from the standpoint of theoretical structural parameters and ridge regression methodology. The quantitative structure–activity relationship studies developed here for the caspase‐mediated apoptosis activity and cytotoxicity on murine leukemia cell line (L1210), human promylolytic cell line (HL‐60), human breast cancer cell line (MCF‐7), parenteral human acute lymphoblastic cells (CCRF‐CEM), and multidrug‐resistant subline of CCRF‐resistant to vinblastine (CEM/VLB) cells utilize physicochemical molecular descriptors calculated solely from the structure of phenolic compounds under investigation along with the descriptors used by Selassie and group. It is seen that such quantitative structure–activity relationships can provide a better quality predictive model for the phenolic compounds. The biological activities of the nine sets of phenolic compounds have been calculated based on ridge regression analysis that clearly gives a better significant correlation compared to the activities predicted by Selassie and co‐workers. Counter‐propagation artificial neural network studies have been introduced in the present investigation for a better understanding of multidimensional rational patterns in more complex data sets. The counter‐propagation artificial neural network studies were performed on the same data set and with the same descriptors as have been carried out in developing ridge regression models and the result of counter‐propagation neural network models produces very interesting findings in terms of leave‐one‐out test. Finally, an attempt has been made for a comparative study of the relative effectiveness of linear statistical methods versus nonlinear techniques, such as counter‐propagation neural networks in modeling structure–activity studies of the phenolic compounds.
The Languages of Vietnam: Mosaics and Expansions
Authors: Edmondson Jerold A. , Gregerson Kenneth J.
Published: October 2007

The languages of Vietnam reflect the historical migrations of prehistoric people groups as well as successive waves of cultural influence by world civilizations over many thousands of years. In addition to cultural spread, certain of Vietnam's ethnicities also constitutes social mosaics in the sense of Renfrew (2000), growing and flourishing in place. The linguistic fabric of the nation is woven of widely different strands, including Austroasiatic and Austronesian speech communities, Sino‐Tibetan and Kra‐Dai (Tai‐Kadai), as well as Hmong‐Mien. Despite the chaos of the last half century, national and international scholars, building on French studies of the nineteenth century, have been able to document language names, places, populations, and linguistic relationships to a degree never achieved in the past. The story of the peoples of Vietnam is a rich one that invites renewed understanding.
Auxiliary Selection
Authors: McFadden Thomas
Published: October 2007

Few syntactic phenomena are relevant to as many areas of linguistic theory as auxiliary selection – the alternation between auxiliaries in periphrastic constructions. Standing at the intersection between syntax, lexical and clausal semantics and morphology, it has been the subject of intense research since the late 1970s and has played a role in several important theoretical developments and debates. Auxiliary selection also poses a number of empirical questions. Even within a single language, the correct description of the alternation can be controversial, and the extensive cross‐linguistic variation has turned out to be rather difficult to characterize in a systematic way. In this article, I give a survey of how our understanding of auxiliary selection has developed, both on the empirical and the theoretical side. I also include a brief discussion of work on how patterns of selection arise and change over time.
Patterns in the Received Facial UV Exposure of School Children Measured at a Subtropical Latitude
Authors: Downs Nathan , Parisi Alfio
Published: October 2007

Polysulfone (PS) dosimeters have been employed to measure the erythemally effective UV exposure to the vertex, nose, cheek, chin and side facial sites of 45 volunteer high school students from Hervey Bay, Australia (25.3°S 152.9°E). The results of a series of 1 h outdoor sport trials (basketball and soccer) found the mean student facial exposure, determined as the arithmetic average of facial site exposures of unprotected students (no hat) to protected students (hat), varied from 140 ± 82 J m−2 (1σ) to 99 ± 33 J m−2 (1σ), respectively. All hourly student facial exposures recorded over the study period were found to exceed the National Health and Medical Research Council’s adopted safe daily limit of 30 J m−2. Facial exposure relative to the received ambient UV increased to the nose at higher (winter) solar zenith angles (SZAs) compared with lower (summer) SZA ranges for both protected and unprotected students. The protection offered by the broad‐brimmed hats was reduced significantly to the lower chin facial site at the higher SZA range, indicating that the style of hat used offers best protection in summer to the upper facial regions at most risk of receiving a high exposure when no hat protection is used. Variations to specific student facial exposure sites were measured between both basketball and soccer players. Variation in student facial exposure was further examined with respect to cloud cover and comparisons to manikin headform measurements were also made. The study results indicate that hats alone are not adequate forms of sun protection in a school environment. Schools aiming to achieve acceptable safe limits of facial exposure may need to further consider the effectiveness of hat protection with increasing SZA, cloud cover and head position relative to the sun that is specific to the scheduled outdoor activity.
High Level of Low‐density Lipoprotein Receptors Enhance Hypericin Uptake by U‐87 MG Cells in the Presence of LDL
Authors: Kascakova Slavka , Nadova Zuzana , Mateasik Anton , Mikes Jaromir , Huntosova Veronika , Refregiers Matthieu , Sureau Franck , Maurizot Jean‐Claude , Miskovsky Pavol , Jancura Daniel
Published: October 2007

The dependence of the uptake of hypericin (Hyp) by human glioma U‐87 MG cells on the level of expression of low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) receptors has been studied in this work. A special role of the LDL receptor‐pathway for Hyp delivery to U‐87 MG cells in the presence of LDL was revealed by the substantial increase of Hyp uptake in the situation, when the number of LDL receptors on the cell surface was elevated. Moreover, the colocalization experiments showed the lysosomal localization of Hyp following the uptake and that the concentration of Hyp in these organelles was enhanced in the cells with elevated number of LDL receptors when the incubation medium contained LDL. Both these findings suggest that LDL and LDL receptor‐pathway play an important role in the delivery and accumulation of Hyp into the cells.
The Influence of the Loop between Residues 223‐235 in Beetle Luciferase Bioluminescence Spectra: A Solvent Gate for the Active Site of pH‐Sensitive Luciferases
Authors: Viviani Vadim R. , Silva Neto Antonio J. , Arnoldi Frederico G. C. , Barbosa João A. R. G. , Ohmiya Yoshihiro
Published: October 2007

Beetle luciferases emit a wide range of bioluminescence colors, ranging from green to red. Firefly luciferases can shift the spectrum to red in response to pH and temperature changes, whereas click beetle and railroadworm luciferases do not. Despite many studies on firefly luciferases, the origin of pH‐sensitivity is far from being understood. Through comparative site‐directed mutagenesis and modeling studies, using the pH‐sensitive luciferases (Macrolampis and Cratomorphus distinctus fireflies) and the pH‐insensitive luciferases (Pyrearinus termitilluminans, Phrixotrix viviani and Phrixotrix hirtus) cloned by our group, here we show that substitutions dramatically affecting bioluminescence colors in both groups of luciferases are clustered in the loop between residues 223‐235 (Photinus pyralis sequence). The substitutions at positions 227, 228 and 229 (P. pyralis sequence) cause dramatic redshift and temporal shift in both groups of luciferases, indicating their involvement in labile interactions. Modeling studies showed that the residues Y227 and N229 are buried in the protein core, fixing the loop to other structural elements participating at the bottom of the luciferin binding site. Changes in pH and temperature (in firefly luciferases), as well as point mutations in this loop, may disrupt the interactions of these structural elements exposing the active site and modulating bioluminescence colors.
Development and validation of an approach to produce large‐scale quantities of CpG‐methylated plasmid DNA
Authors: Fletcher Bradley S.
Published: October 2007

The prokaryotic CpG‐specific DNA methylase from Spiroplasma, SssI methylase, has been extensively used to methylate plasmid DNA in vitro to investigate the effects of methylation in vertebrate systems. Currently available methods to produce CpG‐methylated plasmid DNA have certain limitations and cannot generate large quantities of methylated DNA without cost or problems of purity. Here we describe an approach in which the SssI methylase gene has been introduced into the Escherichia coli bacterial genome under the control of an inducible promoter. Plasmid DNA propagated in this bacterium under conditions which induce the methylase gene result in significant (> 90%) CpG methylation. Methylated DNA produced by this approach behaves similarly to methylated DNA produced in vitro using the purified methylase. The approach is scalable allowing for the production of milligram quantities of methylated plasmid DNA.
Mutant HbpR transcription activator isolation for 2‐chlorobiphenyl via green fluorescent protein‐based flow cytometry and cell sorting
Authors: Beggah Siham , Vogne Christelle , Zenaro Elena , Van Der Meer Jan Roelof
Published: October 2007

Mutants were produced in the A‐domain of HbpR, a protein belonging to the XylR family of σ54‐dependent transcription activators, with the purpose of changing its effector recognition specificity from 2‐hydroxybiphenyl (2‐HBP, the cognate effector) to 2‐chlorobiphenyl (2‐CBP). Mutations were introduced in the hbpR gene part for the A‐domain via error‐prone polymerase chain reaction, and assembled on a gene circuitry plasmid in Escherichia coli, permitting HbpR‐dependent induction of the enhanced green fluorescent protein (egfp). Cells with mutant HbpR proteins responsive to 2‐CBP were enriched and separated in a flow cytometry‐assisted cell‐sorting procedure. Some 70 mutants were isolated and the A‐domain mutations mapped. One of these had acquired true 2‐CBP recognition but reacted hypersensitively to 2‐HBP (20‐fold more than the wild type), whereas others had reduced sensitivity to 2‐HBP but a gain of 2‐CBP recognition. Sequencing showed that most mutants carried double or triple mutations in the A‐domain gene part, and were not located in previously recognized conserved residues within the XylR family members. Further selection from a new mutant pool prepared of the hypersensitive mutant did not result in increased 2‐CBP or reduced 2‐HBP recognition. Our data thus demonstrate that a one‐step in vitro ‘evolutionary’ adaptation of the HbpR protein can result in both enhancement and reduction of the native effector recognition.
Self and Attitude Strength Parallels: Focus on Accessibility
Authors: DeMarree Kenneth G. , Petty Richard E. , Briñol Pablo
Published: October 2007

Numerous parallels exist between the literatures on attitudes and the self, yet they are generally considered in isolation. In this paper, we focus on some parallels with respect to the concept of self‐strength – that is, aspects of self‐esteem and the self‐concept that impart the qualities of durability and impactfulness. Using research on attitude strength as our foundation, we first introduce some relevant strength variables such as accessibility, certainty, and ambivalence. Then, as a case study we review existing research on self‐view accessibility. Our review is organized based on parallel findings on attitude accessibility in order to demonstrate the utility of this approach. By considering research on attitude strength, we are able to organize, and in some cases reinterpret, previous self‐related findings, make new predictions regarding the self, and increase the precision of predictions. We believe that this approach can foster integration between the areas of attitudes and the self, advancing theory and research on both.
Religious Involvement and Perceived Social Support: Interactive Effects on Cardiovascular Reactivity to Laboratory Stressors
Authors: Chen Yung Y. , Contrada Richard J.
Published: October 2007

Religious involvement has been linked to reduced risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. This may reflect lower cardiovascular reactivity (CVR) among individuals high in religious involvement. The relationship between religious involvement and reactivity may overlap with the effects of other psychosocial factors. This study examined religious involvement, social support, and hostility in relation to CVR in the laboratory. Results showed an interactive effect of perceived social support and religious involvement on systolic blood pressure (SBP) reactivity. Participants reporting a high level of religious involvement showed lower SBP reactivity only when they also reported high levels of social support. These findings encourage further research on the unique and conjoint effects of religiousness and other psychosocial variables on CVR.