bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Hymenoptera Genome Database
Authors: Elsik Christine , Munoz-Torres Monica , Reese Justin , Childers Christopher , Bennett Anna , Sundaram Jaideep , Vile Donald
Published: November 2010

The Hymenoptera Genome Database (HGD) is an informatics resource supporting genomics of hymenopteran insect species. This relational database implements open-source software and components providing access to curated data contributed by an extensive, active research community. HGD includes the genome sequences and annotation data of honey bee _Apis mellifera_ and its pathogens ("http://BeeBase.org":BeeBase.org) the parasitoid wasp Nasonia vitripennis ("http://NasoniaBase.org":NasoniaBase.org) and a portal to the genomes of six species of ants. Together, these species cover approximately 200 MY in the phylogeny of Hymenoptera, allowing to leverage genetic, genome sequence, and gene expression data, as well as the biological knowledge of related model organisms. The availability of resources across an order greatly facilitates comparative genomics and enhances our understanding of the biology of agriculturally important Hymenoptera species through genomics. HGD has supported research contributions from an extensive community from almost 80 institutions in 14 countries. Community annotation efforts are made possible thanks to a remote connection to a Chado database by Apollo Genome Annotation client software. Curated data at HGD includes predicted and annotated gene sets supported with evidence tracks such as ESTs/cDNAs, small RNA sequences and GC composition domains. Data at HGD can be queried using genome browsers and / or BLAST/PSI-BLAST servers, and it may also be downloaded to perform local searches. We encourage the public to access and contribute data to HGD at "http://HymenopteraGenome.org":HymenopteraGenome.org.This poster contains material included in an article accepted for publication in Nucl. Acids Res.©: 2011. The Database Issue. Published by Oxford University Press.
Structures of two cell wall‐associated polysaccharides of a Streptococcus mitis biovar 1 strain
Authors: Bergström Niklas , Jansson Per‐Erik , Kilian Mogens , Skov Sørensen Uffe B.
Published: November 2010

The cell wall of Streptococcus mitis biovar 1 strain SK137 contains the C‐polysaccharide known as the common antigen of a closely related species Streptococcus pneumoniae, and a teichoic acid‐like polysaccharide with a unique structure. The two polysaccharides are different entities and could be partially separated by gel chromatography. The structures of the two polysaccharides were determined by chemical methods and by NMR spectroscopy. The teichoic acid‐like polymer has a heptasaccharide phosphate repeating unit with the following structure:

The structure neither contains ribitol nor glycerol phosphate as classical teichoic acids do, thus we have used the expression teichoic acid‐like for this polysaccharide. The following structure of the C‐polysaccharide repeating unit was established:

where AAT is 2‐acetamido‐4‐amino‐2,4,6‐trideoxy‐d‐galactose. It has a carbohydrate backbone identical to that of one of the two structures of C‐polysaccharide previously identified in S. pneumoniae. C‐polysaccharide of S. mitis is characterized by the presence, in each repeating unit, of two residues of phosphocholine and both galactosamine residues in the N‐acetylated form. Immunochemical analysis showed that C‐polysaccharide constitutes the Lancefield group O antigen. Studies using mAbs directed against the backbone and against the phosphocholine moiety of the C‐polysaccharide revealed several different patterns of these epitopes among 95 S. mitis and Streptococcus oralis strains tested and the exclusive presence of the group O antigen in the majority of S. mitis biovar 1 strains.
Development of calibration algorithms for selected water content reflectometry probes for burned and non-burned organic soils of Alaska
Authors: Bourgeau-Chavez Laura L. , Garwood Gordon C. , Riordan Kevin , Koziol Benjamin W. , Slawski James
Published: November 2010

Water content reflectometry is a method used by many commercial manufacturers of affordable sensors to electronically estimate soil moisture content. Field‐deployable and handheld water content reflectometry probes were used in a variety of organic soil‐profile types in Alaska. These probes were calibrated using 65 organic soil samples harvested from these burned and unburned, primarily moss‐dominated sites in the boreal forest. Probe output was compared with gravimetrically measured volumetric moisture content, to produce calibration algorithms for surface‐down‐inserted handheld probes in specific soil‐profile types, as well as field‐deployable horizontally inserted probes in specific organic soil horizons. General organic algorithms for each probe type were also developed. Calibrations are statistically compared to determine their suitability. The resulting calibrations showed good agreement with in situ validation and varied from the default mineral‐soil‐based calibrations by 20% or more. These results are of particular interest to researchers measuring soil moisture content with water content reflectometry probes in soils with high organic content.
Optimal management of Pinus pinaster in Galicia (Spain) under risk of fire
Authors: Pasalodos-Tato María , Pukkala Timo , Rojo Alboreca Alberto
Published: November 2010

Pinus pinaster is the most important conifer in Galicia in terms of volume and production, occurs mainly in plantations. Forest fires are the main threat to forest plantations, affecting optimal stand management. The aim of this study was to develop management prescriptions for P. pinaster based on growth and yield models and optimisations. The objective function was soil expectation value, calculated taking the expected fire losses into account. Fire risk was assumed to consist of two components, probability of occurrence and damage. As the main cause of forest fires in Galicia is arson, the manager cannot significantly influence fire occurrence, which was assumed to be exogenous. Salvage was treated as an endogenous factor depending on the management schedule followed in the stand. Optimisations were done for different initial stands, timber assortments, discount rates and probabilities of fire occurrence. Based on the optimisation results, regression models were developed for the optimal rotation length as well as the timing and intensity of thinnings. The results show that when fire risk is partly endogenous, optimal rotation lengths become shorter with increasing probability of fire occurrence, and optimal thinning becomes heavier and earlier. However, without a price reduction for burned timber, the optimal rotation length increases with increasing probability of fire.
Meteorological conditions and wildfire-related houseloss in Australia
Authors: Blanchi Raphaele , Lucas Chris , Leonard Justin , Finkele Klara
Published: November 2010

Wildland fires or bushfires occurring under very severe weather conditions are likely to be destructive to infrastructure. This paper reports an analysis of the statistical relationship between house loss and the fire weather under which it occurred. A dataset was derived from 54 bushfires that occurred in Australia between 1957 and 2009, which resulted in the destruction of 8256 houses. The dataset was statistically compared with relevant local meteorological conditions, and a standardised calculation of the McArthur Forest Fire Danger Index (FFDI) applied. The analysis highlights how house loss statistics in Australia are dominated by a few iconic events that have occurred during very intense fire weather with the majority of losses occurring on days when the FFDI exceeds 100. Virtually all of the house loss has occurred above the 99.5th percentile level in the distribution of daily FFDI for each of the regions considered. Regulatory tools will need to focus on the most appropriate fire weather potential of a local area in order to ensure that infrastructure is adequately designed. In Australia, little house loss has occurred on days where the FFDI did not exceed 50, suggesting that historic building practices may be maintained in regions where this level is not likely to be exceeded.
Chemical mimics with systemic efficacy.
Authors: Mor A.
Published: November 2010

Host-derived cationic antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and their synthetic variants are widely regarded as a potential source of future therapeutic agents against a broad range of pathogens. This is due to a remarkable set of advantageous properties, ranging from molecular simplicity that readily allows for time- and cost-efficient establishment of structure-activity relationships, to an essentially non-specific multitargeted mode of action, which significantly limits the capacity of pathogens to develop efficient resistance mechanisms. Nevertheless, difficult challenges need to be overcome as we move towards their eventual use in therapeutics, including improved bioavailability, toxicity and production costs. To address these issues, an increasingly rich variety of strategies for improving AMP properties are currently available for designing chemical mimics that reproduce the most critical biophysical characteristics of AMPs. In this chapter, I review the main strategies for the de novo design of AMP mimics that have generated systemically active lead compounds and showed promise for therapeutic development. Conceptually, the known designs can be distinguished on the basis of backbone rigidity. Thus, aft er a brief discussion of recent advances on representative approaches used to generate relatively stiffantimicrobial structures, this chapter focuses on the acyl-lysyl approach, which allows the design of structurally bendable molecules that none the less can selectively target a variety of microbial cells.
Structural studies of antimicrobial peptides provide insight into their mechanisms of action.
Authors: Wang G. S.
Published: November 2010

This chapter reviews structural studies of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), with a focus on human defensins and cathelicidins. Also discussed are the major steps for structural determination of AMPs by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, including bacterial expression and purification, sample preparations, data collection, sequential signal assignments, structure calculations, validation and coordinate deposition. A variety of three-dimensional structures (α-helices, β-strands, αβ-fold and non-αβ structures) have been discovered for AMPs, which can induce similar biophysical consequences in membranes such as positive curvature or lipid domain formation. Therefore, it is the amphipathic surface, not polypeptide backbone scaffolds, that is essential for the antimicrobial activity of AMPs. A proper presentation of side chains (e.g. cationic and hydrophobic) on the surface of AMPs determines not only membrane perturbation potential, but also other biological functions. Reduction in hydrophobicity is a fundamental strategy to improve peptide selectivity. Structures of AMPs in complex with membranes or non-membrane targets also form the foundation for engineering a new generation of antimicrobials that will supplement or replace traditional resistant antibiotics.
Role of vitamin D in the enhancement of antimicrobial peptide gene expression.
Authors: White J. H. , Bitton A. J.
Published: November 2010

1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25D), the hormonally active form of vitamin D, was initially identified as a key regulator of calcium homeostasis. 1,25D signals through the nuclear vitamin D receptor, a ligandregulated transcription factor. More recent studies have revealed that 1,25D regulates a number of physiological processes, including innate immunity. The innate immune system is responsible for rapid, non-specific host responses to pathogenic infection. Unlike adaptive immunity, innate immune responses do not confer lasting protection on the host. 1,25D induces the expression of LL-37 and hBD-2, antimicrobial peptides that serve as vanguards of innate immune responses. Antimicrobial peptides are small proteins with antibiotic properties that can also acts as signalling molecules to modulate specific responses such as wound healing and cytokine induction. This chapter focuses on the gene regulatory activity of 1,25D, with an emphasis on its role in the potentiation of innate immune responses and the promotion of antimicrobial peptide expression.
The properties and design concepts of photonic directional couplers made of photonic crystal slabs
Authors: Huang Chih-Hsien , Wu Jing-Nuo , Lee Po-Yi , Hsieh Wen-Feng , Cheng Szu-Cheng
Published: November 2010

The properties and design concepts of air-defect symmetric and asymmetric directional couplers (DCs) made of photonic crystal slabs (PCSs) are investigated by the tight-binding theory. We give criteria in both cases for determining the specific frequency, named as the decoupling point, at which the even (-like) and odd (-like) parities of eigenmodes should switch. Two dispersion curves will cross in symmetric DCs but not in asymmetric DCs because eigenfrequencies of isolated photonic waveguides (PCWs) are different in asymmetric DCs. In the dielectric-rod PCS, the decoupling point of the DC is located almost at the same wave vector as a two-dimensional (2D) DC with only a blue shift in its frequency. Therefore, 2D simulation can give a primary result in designing a dielectric-rod DC. On reducing the radius of the defect rods, the increase in coupling coefficients leads to a faster group velocity and a longer coupling length. On the other hand, the dispersion curves of the air-hole PCS DC are no longer parallel to those of the 2D DC so that performing a 3D simulation is necessary in designing an air-hole PCS DC with enlarged air holes. Moreover, the dispersion curve of the single PCW is no longer located at the centre of the curves of the symmetric DC and the group velocity may become negative which is not observed in the dielectric-rod PCS. The simulation results indicate that the coupling length of an air-defect DC can be achieved as short as 5 lattice constants, which is much smaller than that made of dielectric defects in air-hole PCS DCs.
Design, fabrication and physical analysis of TiN/AlN deep UV photodiodes
Authors: Barkad H A , Soltani A , Mattalah M , Gerbedoen J-C , Rousseau M , De Jaeger J-C , BenMoussa A , Mortet V , Haenen K , Benbakhti B , Moreau M , Dupuis R , Ougazzaden A
Published: November 2010

Deep-ultraviolet solar-blind photodiodes based on high-quality AlN films grown on sapphire substrates with a metal–semiconductor–metal configuration were simulated and fabricated. The Schottky contact is based on TiN metallization. The material is characterized by the micro-Raman spectroscopy and x-ray diffraction technique. The detector presents an extremely low dark current of 100 fA at −100 V dc bias for large device area as high as 3.1 mm2. It also exhibits a rejection ratio between 180 and 300 nm of three orders of magnitude with a very sharp cut-off wavelength at 203 nm (∼6.1 eV). The simulation to optimize the photodiode topology is based on a 2D energy-balance model using the COMSOL® software. Simulation performed for different spacing for a given bias between electrodes show that a compromise must be found between the dark current and the responsivity for the optimization of the device performance. The measurement results are in good agreement with the model predictions.
Brilliant blue, green and orange–red emission band on Tm3+-, Tb3+- and Eu3+-doped ZrO2 nanocrystals
Authors: Romero V H , De la Rosa E , López-Luke T , Salas P , Angeles-Chavez C
Published: November 2010

Tm3+-, Tb3+- and Eu3+-doped ZrO2 nanocrystals were prepared by a facile precipitation method with a hydrothermal process. Structural characterization showed a crystallite size ranging from 30 to 40 nm, and monoclinic and tetragonal zirconia phases were observed depending on the dopant concentration. The monoclinic phase was dominant for 0.5 mol% of Tb3+ and Eu3+, and the tetragonal phase was 100% stabilized for 2 mol% of Tm3+ and Tb3+. The structure of emission bands associated with Eu3+ confirms the substitution of Zr4+ located at C1 and D2h symmetry sites for the monoclinic and tetragonal phases. The emission of three primary colours, red, green and blue, was obtained from Eu3+, Tb3+ and Tm3+, respectively, which makes this nanophosphor an excellent candidate for use in photonics applications. The emitted signal was analysed as a function of ion concentration and the optimum concentration was determined.
Improving plasma resistance and lowering roughness in an ArF photoresist by adding a chemical reaction inhibitor
Authors: Jinnai Butsurin , Uesugi Takuji , Koyama Koji , Kato Keisuke , Yasuda Atsushi , Maeda Shinichi , Momose Hikaru , Samukawa Seiji
Published: November 2010

Major challenges associated with 193 nm lithography using an ArF photoresist are low plasma resistance and roughness formation in the ArF photoresist during plasma processes. We have previously found decisive factors affecting the plasma resistance and roughness formation in an ArF photoresist: plasma resistance is determined by UV/VUV radiation, and roughness formation is dominated by chemical reactions. In this study, based on our findings on the interaction between plasma radiation species and ArF photoresist polymers, we proposed an ArF photoresist with a chemical reaction inhibitor, which can trap reactive species from the plasma, and characterized the performances of the resultant ArF photoresist through neutral beam experiments. Hindered amine light stabilizers, i.e. 4-hydroxy-2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-1-piperidinyloxy (HO-TEMPO), were used as the chemical reaction inhibitor. Etching rates of the ArF photoresist films were not dependent on the HO-TEMPO content in the irradiations without chemical reactions or under UV/VUV radiation. However, in the irradiation with chemical reactions, the etching rates of the ArF photoresist films decreased as the HO-TEMPO content increased. In addition, the surface roughness decreased with the increase in the additive amount of chemical reaction inhibitor. According to FTIR analysis, a chemical reaction inhibitor can inhibit the chemical reactions in ArF photoresist films through plasma radicals. These results indicate that a chemical reaction inhibitor is effective against chemical reactions, resulting in improved plasma resistance and less roughness in an ArF photoresist. These results also support our suggested mechanism of plasma resistance and roughness formation in an ArF photoresist.
Stress-dependent band gap shift and quenching of defects in Al-doped ZnO films
Authors: Sharma Bhupendra K , Khare Neeraj
Published: November 2010

Al-doped ZnO (AZO) films were deposited on quartz substrates by the ultrasonically assisted chemical vapour deposition technique. The undoped ZnO film was found to be subjected to a stress which increases initially up to 3% Al doping, and then a slight decrease was observed for 5% Al doping. The band gap of AZO shows a blue shift up to 3% of Al doping as compared with the undoped ZnO. The blue shift in the band gap of the AZO films cannot be understood in the framework of Burstein–Moss shift and has been attributed to an increase in the stress present in the film. The photoluminescence spectrum of the undoped ZnO film shows a wide peak in the visible region which is suppressed with a small red shift after Al doping in the ZnO film. A detailed analysis of photoluminescence of ZnO and AZO films indicates suppression of zinc interstitials (Zni) and oxygen vacancies (VO) and creation of oxygen interstitial (Oi) defects after Al doping in ZnO films. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy study also reveals suppression of oxygen vacancy related defects after Al doping in the ZnO film. The presence of Al in the ZnO matrix seems to change the defect equilibria leading to a suppression of Zni and VO and enhancement of Oi defects. The suppression of Zni defects is correlated with the increase in stress in Al-doped ZnO films.
Prognostic value of serial B‐type natriuretic peptide measurement in asymptomatic organic mitral regurgitation
Authors: Klaar Ursula , Gabriel Harald , Bergler‐Klein Jutta , Pernicka Elisabeth , Heger Maria , Mascherbauer Julia , Rosenhek Raphael , Binder Thomas , Maurer Gerald , Baumgartner Helmut
Published: November 2010

Aims

Optimal timing of surgery is crucial in mitral regurgitation (MR) to avoid excess mortality and morbidity. The role of brain‐type natriuretic peptide (BNP) in this setting remains controversial. We evaluated the value of serial BNP measurements for early prediction of deterioration in asymptomatic MR.

Methods and results

Eighty‐seven consecutive asymptomatic patients with severe organic MR, normal left ventricular (LV) function (ejection fraction ≥60%, end‐systolic diameter index <26 mm/m2), systolic pulmonary artery pressure (sPAP) <50 mmHg, and no atrial fibrillation underwent clinical assessment, echocardiography, and measurement of BNP and N‐terminal pro‐BNP (NT‐proBNP) at 6‐month intervals. The primary endpoint was the development of symptoms and/or LV dysfunction. The secondary endpoint was the occurrence of atrial fibrillation or sPAP ≥50 mmHg. Over a mean follow‐up of 786 ± 454 days, 20 patients reached the primary endpoint and 5, the secondary endpoint. By univariate analysis, age, BNP, NT‐proBNP, and sPAP were significant predictors of reaching the primary endpoint during the 6 months following testing, whereas LV function and dimensions were not. By multivariate analysis, only BNP (P = 0.03) and sPAP (P = 0.04) remained independent predictors. When secondary endpoints were additionally considered, results remained unchanged. Receiver operator curve analysis yielded AUC‐values of 0.90, 0.84, and 0.80 for BNP, NT‐proBNP, and sPAP, but 0.60 and 0.57 for left ventricular ejection fraction and end‐systolic diameter. The negative predictive value for normal neurohormone levels and sPAP was high (98–100%). A BNP of 145 pg/mL had a positive predictive value of 36%.

Conclusion

Brain natriuretic peptide and NT‐proBNP independently predict outcome in asymptomatic MR. Serial measurements may help to improve timing of surgery. Low plasma levels with their high negative predictive values appear to be particularly helpful by identifying low‐risk individuals.
Novel σ
B regulation modules of Gram-positive bacteria involve the use of complex hybrid histidine kinases
Authors: de Been Mark , Francke Christof , Siezen Roland J. , Abee Tjakko
Published: November 2010

A common bacterial strategy to cope with stressful conditions is the activation of alternative sigma factors that control specific regulons enabling targeted responses. In the human pathogen Bacillus cereus, activation of the major stress-responsive sigma factor σ
B is controlled by a signalling route that involves the multi-sensor hybrid histidine kinase RsbK. RsbK-type kinases are not restricted to the B. cereus group, but occur in a wide variety of other bacterial species, including members of the the low-GC Gram-positive genera Geobacillus and Paenibacillus as well as the high-GC actinobacteria. Genome context and protein sequence analyses of 118 RsbK homologues revealed extreme variability in N-terminal sensory as well as C-terminal regulatory domains and suggested that RsbK-type kinases are subject to complex fine-tuning systems, including sensitization and desensitization via methylation and demethylation within the helical domain preceding the H-box. The RsbK-mediated stress-responsive sigma factor activation mechanism that has evolved in B. cereus and the other species differs markedly from the extensively studied and highly conserved RsbRST-mediated σ
B activation route found in Bacillus subtilis and other low-GC Gram-positive bacteria. Implications for future research on sigma factor control mechanisms are presented and current knowledge gaps are briefly discussed.
A perspective on positive relationships between genetic diversity and abundance in fishes
Authors: UTTER FRED , SEEB JAMES
Published: November 2010

Given over 90 combined years in academic and professional activities related to genetics and fishery management (FU 57, JS 36—see Waples et al. 2008), we are pleased to provide an invited perspective generated by the interesting and useful article of McCusker & Bentzen (2010). These authors reaffirm the apparent signature of neutrality of mitochondrial and microsatellite markers through an exhaustive analysis of archived genotypic data for 105 marine and freshwater fishes. They note that their conclusions are consistent with earlier and less comprehensive analyses and that they do not exclude the operation of some selective activity (e.g. genetic ‘draft’), which may be overwhelmed by Ne‐related stochastic processes. Here, we provide a complementary focus, recalling relevant issues related to neutrality and selection in applications of molecular variations in fishery management.
The Breakdown of the Spanish Urban Growth Model: Social and Territorial Effects of the Global Crisis
Authors: GARCÍA MARISOL
Published: November 2010

The present global crisis has manifested itself in Spain with special force, but what is happening today has its roots in the recent economic and urban growth model. Whereas much has been written on the economic weakness of a model heavily based on the construction industry, little attention has been given to the internal regulations, policies, social and cultural factors in which the Spanish urban growth model was embedded. The question insufficiently addressed by current debates is therefore: to what extent is Spain's current crisis the result of its urban economic and social growth model? In this essay I argue that the crisis in the Spanish urban growth model reveals a particular interaction of globalizing forces with national and local processes, characterized both by specific structures of economic incentives and path‐dependent cultural traits. The combination of these factors goes some way towards an explanation of the housing bubble. This specific combination of factors, however, makes the outlook for the aftermath of the housing bubble in Spain different from that experienced in the United States.

La crise mondiale actuelle a fortement affecté l’Espagne, mais ce qui se passe aujourd’hui tient au récent modèle de croissance économique et urbaine. Alors qu’on a beaucoup écrit sur la faiblesse économique d’un modèle fondé largement sur le secteur du bâtiment, on ne s’est guère intéressé aux réglementations internes, politiques publiques ou facteurs socio‐culturels dans lesquels s’inscrit le modèle de croissance urbaine espagnole. La question que les débats actuels n’abordent que trop peu est donc : dans quelle mesure la crise que connaît l’Espagne résulte‐t‐elle de son modèle de croissance socio‐économique urbaine? Il est affirmé ici que la crise de ce modèle révèle une interaction particulière des forces mondialisatrices avec les processus nationaux et locaux, caractérisés les uns comme les autres par des structures spécifiques d’incitations économiques et par des traits culturels tributaires de chemins de dépendance. La combinaison de ces facteurs participe à une explication de la bulle du logement. Concernant ce phénomène, l’association spécifique des facteurs étudiés permet d’envisager des répercussions différentes pour l’Espagne comparée aux États‐Unis.
Conflicting attitudes and scepticism towards online shopping: the role of experience
Authors: Soopramanien Didier
Published: November 2010

Researchers typically study how levels of risk perception about online shopping affect whether and how consumers use the channel to buy products. In this paper, we propose to study how different types of attitudes towards online shopping are formed when consumers consider both the benefit and the risk of using the Internet to do their shopping. We consider the possibility that general types of attitudes are formed when consumers' perception of the risk and the benefit of using online shopping conflict. We pay particular attention to the concept of online shopping scepticism where consumers may fully realize the benefit of using the Internet to do their shopping, but also express a certain level of concern about the risk of using that channel. In the risk literature, researchers have shown that experience and increased exposure to a particular technology usually involves the accumulation of more and better knowledge that in turn may lead to a reduction in the perception of the risks involved. In this research, we also explore the role of experience in the context of consumers' intention to use online shopping. More specifically, we postulate that online shopping experience has a direct effect as well as an indirect effect on the intention to use online shopping. Experience with online shopping directly increases the consumer's intention to use the Internet to buy products but it also reduces the degree of scepticism and risk aversion, and that in turn, also increases the intention to use online shopping.
Endothelin antagonism as an active principle for glaucoma therapy
Authors: Rosenthal Rita , Fromm Michael
Published: November 2010

Endothelin, the most potent vasoactive peptide known to date, has been suggested to play a potential role in the pathogenesis of open‐angle glaucoma. Open‐angle glaucoma is the most common optic nerve head neuropathy and is associated with a loss of retinal ganglion cells and visual field damage. Although an increased intraocular pressure is a major risk factor for glaucomatous optic neuropathy, other factors such as a reduced ocular blood flow play an important role for appearance of the disease. Thus, treatment of glaucoma is focused on lowering of intraocular pressure and preventing the occurrence or progression of glaucomatous optic neuropathy. Endothelin participates in the regulation of intraocular pressure by an effect on trabecular outflow, the main route for aqueous humour outflow from the eye. Trabecular outflow is modulated by trabecular meshwork contractility which is affected by endothelin. In addition to the effects of endothelin in the anterior part of the eye, the vasoconstrictor causes a decrease in ocular blood flow followed by pathological changes in the retina and the optic nerve head which is assumed to contribute to the degeneration of retinal ganglion cells. In sum, inhibition of endothelin signalling leads to lowering of intraocular pressure and exerts neuroprotective effects. Thus, endothelin antagonism in the eye represents a promising approach for pharmacological treatment of glaucoma.
Characterization of the metabolism of fenretinide by human liver microsomes, cytochrome P450 enzymes and UDP‐glucuronosyltransferases
Authors: Illingworth NA , Boddy AV , Daly AK , Veal GJ
Published: November 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSEFenretinide (4‐HPR) is a retinoic acid analogue, currently used in clinical trials in oncology. Metabolism of 4‐HPR is of particular interest due to production of the active metabolite 4′‐oxo 4‐HPR and the clinical challenge of obtaining consistent 4‐HPR plasma concentrations in patients. Here, we assessed the enzymes involved in various 4‐HPR metabolic pathways.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACHEnzymes involved in 4‐HPR metabolism were characterized using human liver microsomes (HLM), supersomes over‐expressing individual human cytochrome P450s (CYPs), uridine 5′‐diphospho‐glucoronosyl transferases (UGTs) and CYP2C8 variants expressed inEscherichia coli. Samples were analysed by high‐performance liquid chromatography and liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry assays and kinetic parameters for metabolite formation determined. Incubations were also carried out with inhibitors of CYPs and methylation enzymes.

KEY RESULTSHLM were found to predominantly produce 4′‐oxo 4‐HPR, with an additional polar metabolite, 4′‐hydroxy 4‐HPR (4′‐OH 4‐HPR), produced by individual CYPs. CYPs 2C8, 3A4 and 3A5 were found to metabolize 4‐HPR, with metabolite formation prevented by inhibitors of CYP3A4 and CYP2C8. Differences in metabolism to 4′‐OH 4‐HPR were observed with 2C8 variants, CYP2C8*4 exhibited a significantly lowerVmaxvalue compared with *1. Conversely, a significantly higherVmaxvalue for CYP2C8*4 versus *1 was observed in terms of 4′‐oxo formation. In terms of 4‐HPR glucuronidation, UGTs 1A1, 1A3 and 1A6 produced the 4‐HPR glucuronide metabolite.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONSThe enzymes involved in 4‐HPR metabolism have been characterized. The CYP2C8 isoform was found to have a significant effect on oxidative metabolism and may be of clinical relevance.
Purine receptor‐mediated endocannabinoid production and retrograde synaptic signalling in the cerebellar cortex
Authors: Kovacs Flora E. , Illes Peter , Szabo Bela
Published: November 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSEPresynaptic CB1cannabinoid receptors can be activated by endogenous cannabinoids (endocannabinoids) synthesized by postsynaptic neurones. The hypothesis of the present work was that activation of calcium‐permeable transmitter‐gated ion channels in postsynaptic neurones, specifically of P2X purine receptors, can lead to endocannabinoid production and retrograde synaptic signalling.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACHGABAergic inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) were recorded with patch‐clamp techniques in Purkinje cells in mouse cerebellar slices. Purine receptors on Purkinje cells were activated by pressure ejection of ATP from a pipette.

KEY RESULTSATP evoked an inward current in Purkinje cells, most likely due to P2X receptor activation. The ATP‐evoked currents were accompanied by currents via voltage‐gated calcium channels. ATP suppressed electrical stimulation‐evoked IPSCs and miniature IPSCs (mIPSCs) recorded in the presence of tetrodotoxin, and these effects were prevented by the CB1antagonist rimonabant and the calcium chelator BAPTA (applied into the Purkinje cell). ATP also suppressed mIPSCs when voltage‐gated calcium channels were blocked by cadmium, and intracellular calcium stores were depleted by thapsigargin. However, ATP failed to suppress mIPSCs when the extracellular calcium concentration was zero.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONSATP elicits CB1receptor‐dependent retrograde synaptic suppression, which is probably mediated by an endocannabinod released by the postsynaptic neurone. An increase in intracellular calcium concentration in the postsynaptic neurone is necessary for this retrograde signalling. We propose that ATP increases the calcium concentration by two mechanisms: calcium enters into the neurone via the P2X receptor ion channel and the ATP‐evoked depolarization triggers voltage‐gated calcium channels.
Impaired extinction of fear and maintained amygdala‐hippocampal theta synchrony in a mouse model of temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Lesting Jörg , Geiger Matthias , Narayanan Rajeevan T. , Pape Hans‐Christian , Seidenbecher Thomas
Published: November 2010

Purpose:  The relationship between epilepsy and fear has received much attention. However, seizure‐modulated fear and physiologic or structural correlates have not been examined systematically, and the underlying basics of network levels remain unclear to date. Therefore, this project was set up to characterize the neurophysiologic basis of seizure‐related fear and the contribution of the amygdala‐hippocampus system.

Methods:  The experimental strategy was composed of the following steps: (1) use of the mouse pilocarpine model of temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE); (2) behavioral analyses of anxiety states in the elevated plus maze test, light–dark avoidance test, and Pavlovian fear conditioning; and (3) probing neurophysiologic activity patterns in amygdala‐hippocampal circuits in freely behaving mice.

Results:  Our results displayed no significant differences in basic anxiety levels comparing mice that developed spontaneous recurrent seizures (SRS) and controls. Furthermore, conditioned fear memory retrieval was not influenced in SRS mice. However, during fear memory extinction, SRS mice showed an extended freezing behavior and a maintained amygdala‐hippocampal theta frequency synchronization compared to controls.

Discussion:  These results indicate specific alterations in conditioned fear behavior and related neurophysiologic activities in the amygdala‐hippocampal network contributing to impaired fear memory extinction in mice with TLE. Clinically, the nonextinguished fear memories may well contribute to the experience of fear in patients with TLE.
HLA‐B*1511 is a risk factor for carbamazepine‐induced Stevens‐Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis in Japanese patients
Authors: Kaniwa Nahoko , Saito Yoshiro , Aihara Michiko , Matsunaga Kayoko , Tohkin Masahiro , Kurose Kouichi , Furuya Hirokazu , Takahashi Yukitoshi , Muramatsu Masaaki , Kinoshita Shigeru , Abe Masamichi , Ikeda Hiroko , Kashiwagi Mariko , Song Yixuan , Ueta Mayumi , Sotozono Chie , Ikezawa Zenro , Hasegawa Ryuichi ,   for the JSAR research group
Published: November 2010

Stevens‐Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are rare but life‐threatening severe cutaneous adverse reactions. Recently, strong associations of HLA‐B*1502 with carbamazepine‐induced SJS/TEN have been found in Han Chinese patients. These associations have been confirmed in several Asian populations, excluding Japanese. SJS patients carrying HLA‐B*1508, HLA‐B*1511, or HLA‐B*1521, which are members of the HLA‐B75 type along with HLA‐B*1502, were detected in studies in India and Thailand. In the current study, we genotyped the HLA‐B locus from 14 Japanese typical and atypical SJS/TEN patients in whom carbamazepine was considered to be involved in the onset of adverse reactions. Although there were no HLA‐B*1502 carriers, four patients had HLA‐B*1511. Our data suggest that HLA‐B*1511, a member of HLA‐B75, is a risk factor for carbamazepine‐induced SJS/TEN in Japanese.
Systemic Hyperthermia Masks the Neuroprotective Effects of MK‐801, but not Rosiglitazone in Brain Ischaemia
Authors: Nategh Mohsen , Shaveisi Kaveh , Shabanzadeh Alireza P. , Sadr Seyed Sh. , Parviz Mohsen , Ghabaei Mojdeh
Published: November 2010

Abstract:  The use of neuroprotective agents has been under investigation for the treatment of ischaemic brain stroke. In this study, we examined the effects of rosiglitazone and MK‐801, two potential neuroprotectants, on thromboembloic focal stroke in hyperthermic rats. The animals were assigned into groups of rosiglitazone, MK‐801 and control, all under both normothermic and hyperthermic conditions. A focal ischaemia was induced by injection of preformed clot into the origin of the middle cerebral artery. The animals were assessed by measuring infarct size and brain oedema and also evaluating neurological deficit and seizure activity. Rosiglitazone improved infarct volume and neurological deficit in both normo‐ (36%) and hyperthermic (63%) animals; but MK‐801 only improved normothermic animals. Our results do not support the use of MK‐801 in hyperthermic conditions of brain stroke but suggest that rosiglitazone may preserve its efficiency even in hyperthermia.
Vacuum Erection Devices Revisited: its Emerging Role in the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction and Early Penile Rehabilitation Following Prostate Cancer Therapy
Authors: Pahlajani Geetu , Raina Rupesh , Jones Stephen , Ali Marwan , Zippe Craig
Published: November 2010

Introduction

Vacuum erection devices (VEDs) are becoming first-line therapies for the treatment of erectile dysfunction and preservation (rehabilitation) of erectile function following treatment for prostate cancer. Currently, there is limited efficacy of the use of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors in elderly patients, or patients with moderate to severe diabetes, hypertension, and coronary artery disease.

Aim

The article aims to study the role of VED in patients following prostate cancer therapy.

Results

Alternative therapies such as VED have emerged as one of the primary options for patients refractory to oral therapy. VED has also been successfully used in combination treatment with oral therapy and penile injections. More recently, there has been interest in the use of VED in early intervention protocols to encourage corporeal rehabilitation and prevention of postradical prostatectomy veno-occlusive dysfunction. This is evident by the preservation of penile length and girth that is seen with early use of the VED following radical prostatectomy. There are ongoing studies to help preserve penile length and girth with early use of VED following prostate brachytherapy and external beam radiation for prostate cancer. Recently, there has also been interest in the use of VED to help maintain penile length following surgical correction of Peyronie’s disease and to increase penile size prior to implantation of the penile prosthesis.

Conclusion

VEDs can be one of the options for penile rehabilitation after prostate cancer therapy.
Mortality attributable to pandemic influenza A (H1N1) 2009 in San Luis Potosí, Mexico
Authors: Comas‐García Andreu , García‐Sepúlveda Christian A. , Méndez‐de Lira José J. , Aranda‐Romo Saray , Hernández‐Salinas Alba E. , Noyola Daniel E.
Published: November 2010

Please cite this paper as: Comas‐García et al. (2011) Mortality attributable to pandemic influenza A (H1N1) 2009 in San Luis Potosí, Mexico. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses 5(2), 76–82.

Background  Acute respiratory infections are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Starting in 2009, pandemic influenza A(H1N1) 2009 virus has become one of the leading respiratory pathogens worldwide. However, the overall impact of this virus as a cause of mortality has not been clearly defined.

Objectives  To determine the impact of pandemic influenza A(H1N1) 2009 on mortality in a Mexican population.

Methods  We assessed the impact of pandemic influenza virus on mortality during the first and second outbreaks in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, and compared it to mortality associated with seasonal influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) during the previous winter seasons.

Results  We estimated that, on average, 8·1% of all deaths that occurred during the 2003–2009 seasons were attributable to influenza and RSV. During the first pandemic influenza A(H1N1) 2009 outbreak, there was an increase in mortality in persons 5–59 years of age, but not during the second outbreak (Fall of 2009). Overall, pandemic influenza A (H1N1) 2009 outbreaks had similar effects on mortality to those associated with seasonal influenza virus epidemics.

Conclusions  The impact of influenza A(H1N1) 2009 virus on mortality during the first year of the pandemic was similar to that observed for seasonal influenza. The establishment of real‐time surveillance systems capable of integrating virological, morbidity, and mortality data may result in the timely identification of outbreaks so as to allow for the institution of appropriate control measures to reduce the impact of emerging pathogens on the population.
Calcium Lactate Effect on the Shelf Life of Osmotically Dehydrated Guavas
Authors: Pereira Leila M. , Carmello‐Guerreiro Sandra M. , Junqueira Valéria C. A. , Ferrari Cristhiane C. , Hubinger Miriam D.
Published: November 2010

Abstract: The effect of calcium lactate on osmodehydrated guavas in sucrose and maltose solutions was monitored during storage under passive modified atmosphere for 24 d at 5 °C. Sample texture and color characteristics, microbial spoilage, sensory acceptance, structural changes, and gas composition inside the packages were periodically evaluated. Calcium lactate inhibited microbial growth on guavas, with yeast and mold counts in the order of 102CFU/g throughout storage. The calcium salt reduced respiration rate of guava products, showing O2and CO2concentrations around 18% and 3% inside the packages. A firming effect on fruit texture, with up to 5 and 2 times higher stress and strain at failure values and tissue structure preservation could also be attributed to calcium lactate use. However, fruits treated with calcium lactate, osmodehydrated in maltose and sucrose solutions, showed sensory acceptance scores below the acceptability limit (4.5) after 13 and 17 d of storage, respectively.
Processing of Soft Hispanic Cheese (“Queso Fresco”) Using Thermo‐Sonicated Milk: A Study of Physicochemical Characteristics and Storage Life
Authors: Bermúdez‐Aguirre Daniela , Barbosa‐Cánovas Gustavo V.
Published: November 2010

Abstract:  Queso fresco is a handmade cheese consumed in Latin America and some regions of the United States. However, deficient milk processing has affected its microbial quality and it has an extremely short shelf life and low yield. The objective of this work was to process queso fresco using thermo‐sonicated milk; physicochemical parameters were evaluated, including microbial quality during storage (4 °C). An ultrasonic processor (UP400S, 400 W, 24 kHz, 120 μm) was used to sonicate raw milk. Seven milk systems (500 mL each) were evaluated: 1 untreated, and 6 treated at 63 °C/30 min; 63 °C/10 min + sonication; 63 °C/30 min + sonication; 72 °C/15 s; 72 °C/15 s + sonication; and 72 °C/1 min + sonication. A conventional cheese‐making process was followed for all systems. The effect of sonication on milk was quite noticeable. Curdling times were reduced considerably, cheese yield (20.6%) was almost doubled, and luminosity of cheese was increased (L*). Textural properties and microstructure images matched very well. Queso fresco processed at 63 °C/120 μm/30 min had the best quality. After storage for 23 d at 4 °C mesophilic count was just 4 log; psychrophilic count, 3.5 log; and enterobacteria count, 3 log. The pH and color remained almost constant and a minor degree of syneresis was observed at end of storage. Due to microstructural rearrangement of the milk components such as fat globules and casein micelles, cheese yield was doubled compared to the traditional handmade product. Shelf life was extended considerably and the product had higher quality.

Practical Application:  Ultrasound seems to be a viable option for pasteurization of milk and may provide dairy products with specific characteristics. This is an inexpensive and easy nonthermal technology that is affordable for small cheese manufacturers and offers other benefits such as a microbiological safe product, better quality parameters for consumers, and higher cheese yield.
Effect of Thermal Processing on the Degradation, Isomerization, and Bioaccessibility of Lycopene in Tomato Pulp
Authors: Colle Ines , Lemmens Lien , Van Buggenhout Sandy , Van Loey Ann , Hendrickx Marc
Published: November 2010

Abstract:  Thermal processing affects the nutritional value of food products. The nutritional value is not only determined by the content but also by the bioaccessibility of nutrients. The present study was performed to gain detailed insight into the influence of thermal processing on the degradation, isomerization, and bioaccessibility of lycopene isomers in tomato pulp, without adding any other ingredient. The bioaccessibility, which is defined as the fraction of the nutrient that can be released from the food matrix, was measured using an in vitro method. The results demonstrated the rather high thermal stability of lycopene. Although a treatment at 140 °C induced isomerization, the contribution of cis‐lycopene to the total lycopene content remained small. Results also confirmed that thermal processing as such can improve the in vitro bioaccessibility of lycopene in tomato pulp, but the improvement was only significant upon treatments at temperatures of 130 and 140 °C. At such intense process conditions, one should be aware of the negative effect on other quality and nutrient parameters. Possibilities of thermal processing as such to improve the nutritional value of tomato pulp (without the addition of other ingredients) thus looks rather limited.