bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Lignocellulose-Derived Inhibitors on Growth of and Ethanol Production by Growth-Arrested
Corynebacterium glutamicum
R
Authors: Sakai Shinsuke , Tsuchida Yoshiki , Okino Shohei , Ichihashi Osamu , Kawaguchi Hideo , Watanabe Takashi , Inui Masayuki , Yukawa Hideaki
Published: February 2007

In cellulosic ethanol production, pretreatment of a biomass to facilitate enzymatic hydrolysis inevitably yields fermentation inhibitors such as organic acids, furans, and phenols. With representative inhibitors included in the medium at various concentrations, individually or in various combinations, ethanol production by
Corynebacterium glutamicum
R under growth-arrested conditions was investigated. In the presence of various inhibitors, the 62 to 100% ethanol productivity retained by the
C. glutamicum
R-dependent method far exceeded that retained by previously reported methods.
Localized Tufts of Fibrils onStaphylococcus epidermidisNCTC 11047 Are Comprised of the Accumulation-Associated Protein
Authors: Banner Miriam A. , Cunniffe John G. , Macintosh Robin L. , Foster Timothy J. , Rohde Holger , Mack Dietrich , Hoyes Emmy , Derrick Jeremy , Upton Mathew , Handley Pauline S.
Published: February 2007

Staphylococcus epidermidisis both a human skin commensal and an opportunistic pathogen, causing infections linked to implanted medical devices. This paper describes localized tufts of fibrillar appendages on a subpopulation (25%) of wild-type (WT)S. epidermidisNCTC 11047 cells. The fibrils (122.2 ± 10.8 nm long) are usually in a lateral position on the cells. Fibrillar (Fib+) and nonfibrillar (Fib−) subpopulations were separated (enriched) by 34 sequential partitions of WT cells between a buffer phase and a hexadecane phase. Following enrichment, hydrophobic cells from the hexadecane phase comprised 70% Fib+cells and the less hydrophobic cells from the buffer phase entirely comprised Fib−cells. The Fib+and Fib−subpopulations did not revert on subculture (34 times) on solid medium. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of cell surface proteins from WT, Fib+, and Fib−cells revealed two high-molecular-mass proteins (280 kDa and 230 kDa) on the WT and Fib+cells that were absent from the Fib−cells. Amino acid sequencing revealed that fragments of both the 280- and 230-kDa proteins had 100% identity to theaccumulation-associatedprotein (Aap). Aap is known to cause biofilm formation if it is truncated by loss of the terminal A domain. Immunogold staining with anti-Aap antibodies labeled tuft fibrils of the WT and Fib+cells but not the cell surface of Fib−cells. The tufts were labeled with N-terminally directed antibodies (anti-A domain), showing that the fibrillar Aap was not truncated on the cell surface. Thus, the presence of full-length Aap correlated with the low biofilm-forming abilities of both WT and Fib+S. epidermidisNCTC 11047 populations. Reverse transcription-PCR showed thataapwas transcribed in both Fib+and Fib−cells. We therefore propose that full-length Aap is expressed on cells ofS. epidermidisNCTC 11047 as tufts of short fibrils and that fibril expression is regulated at a posttranscriptional level.
Translocation of α-Synuclein Expressed in
Escherichia coli
Authors: Ren Guoping , Wang Xi , Hao Shufeng , Hu Hongyu , Wang Chih-chen
Published: February 2007

α-Synuclein is a major component of Lewy bodies in Parkinson's disease. Although no signal sequence is apparent, α-synuclein expressed in
Escherichia coli
is mostly located in the periplasm. The possibilities that α-synuclein translocated into the periplasm across the inner membrane by the SecA or the Tat targeting route identified in bacteria and that α-synuclein was released through MscL were excluded. The signal recognition particle-dependent pathway is involved in the translocation of α-synuclein. The C-terminal 99-to-140 portion of the α-synuclein molecule plays a signal-like role for its translocation into the periplasm, cooperating with the central 61-to-95 section. The N-terminal 1-to-60 region is not required for this translocation.
Initial Steps of Colicin E1 Import across the Outer Membrane of
Escherichia coli
Authors: Masi Muriel , Vuong Phu , Humbard Matthew , Malone Karen , Misra Rajeev
Published: February 2007

Data suggest a two-receptor model for colicin E1 (ColE1) translocation across the outer membrane of
Escherichia coli
. ColE1 initially binds to the vitamin B
12
receptor BtuB and then translocates through the TolC channel-tunnel, presumably in a mostly unfolded state. Here, we studied the early events in the import of ColE1. Using in vivo approaches, we show that ColE1 is cleaved when added to whole cells. This cleavage requires the presence of the receptor BtuB and the protease OmpT, but not that of TolC. Strains expressing OmpT cleaved ColE1 at K84 and K95 in the N-terminal translocation domain, leading to the removal of the TolQA box, which is essential for ColE1's cytotoxicity. Supported by additional in vivo data, this suggests that a function of OmpT is to degrade colicin at the cell surface and thus protect sensitive
E. coli
cells from infection by E colicins. A genetic strategy for isolating
tolC
mutations that confer resistance to ColE1, without affecting other TolC functions, is also described. We provide further in vivo evidence of the multistep interaction between TolC and ColE1 by using cross-linking followed by copurification via histidine-tagged TolC. First, secondary binding of ColE1 to TolC is dependent on primary binding to BtuB. Second, alterations to a residue in the TolC channel interfere with the translocation of ColE1 across the TolC pore rather than with the binding of ColE1 to TolC. In contrast, a substitution at a residue exposed on the cell surface abolishes both binding and translocation of ColE1.
Expression of the
bviIR
and
cepIR
Quorum-Sensing Systems of
Burkholderia vietnamiensis
Authors: Malott Rebecca J. , Sokol Pamela A.
Published: February 2007

Burkholderia vietnamiensis
has both the
cepIR
quorum-sensing system that is widely distributed among the
Burkholderia cepacia
complex (BCC) and the
bviIR
system. Comparison of the expression of
cepI
,
cepR
,
bviI
, and
bviR-luxCDABE
fusions in
B. vietnamiensis
G4 and the G4
cepR
and
bviR
mutants determined that the expression of
bviI
requires both a functional cognate regulator, BviR, and functional CepR. The
cepIR
system, however, is not regulated by BviR. Unlike the
cepIR
genes in other BCC species, the
cepIR
genes are not autoregulated in G4.
N-
Acyl-homoserine lactone (AHL) production profiles in G4
cepI
,
cepR
,
bviI
, and
bviR
mutants confirmed the regulatory organization of the G4 quorum-sensing systems. The regulatory network in strain PC259 is similar to that in G4, except that CepR positively regulates
cepI
and negatively regulates
cepR
. AHL production and the
bviI
expression levels in seven
B. vietnamiensis
isolates were compared. All strains produced
N-
octanoyl-homoserine lactone and
N-
hexanoyl-homoserine lactone; however, only one of four clinical strains but all three environmental strains produced the BviI synthase product,
N-
decanoyl-homoserine lactone (DHL). The three strains that did not produce DHL expressed
bviR
but not
bviI
. Heterologous expression of
bviR
restored DHL production in these strains. The
bviIR
loci of the non-DHL-producing strains were sequenced to confirm that
bviR
encodes a functional transcriptional regulator. Lack of expression of G4
bviI
in these three strains indicated that an additional regulatory element may be involved in the regulation of
bviIR
expression in certain strains of
B. vietnamiensis
.
Essentiality of Ribosomal and Transcription Antitermination Proteins Analyzed by Systematic Gene Replacement in
Escherichia coli
Authors: Bubunenko Mikhail , Baker Teresa , Court Donald L.
Published: February 2007

We describe here details of the method we used to identify and distinguish essential from nonessential genes on the bacterial
Escherichia coli
chromosome. Three key features characterize our method: high-efficiency recombination, precise replacement of just the open reading frame of a chromosomal gene, and the presence of naturally occurring duplications within the bacterial genome. We targeted genes encoding functions critical for processes of transcription and translation. Proteins from three complexes were evaluated to determine if they were essential to the cell by deleting their individual genes. The transcription elongation Nus proteins and termination factor Rho, which are involved in rRNA antitermination, the ribosomal proteins of the small 30S ribosome subunit, and minor ribosome-associated proteins were analyzed. It was concluded that four of the five bacterial transcription antitermination proteins are essential, while all four of the minor ribosome-associated proteins examined (RMF, SRA, YfiA, and YhbH), unlike most ribosomal proteins, are dispensable. Interestingly, although most 30S ribosomal proteins were essential, the knockouts of six ribosomal protein genes,
rpsF
(S6),
rpsI
(S9),
rpsM
(S13),
rpsO
(S15),
rpsQ
(S17), and
rpsT
(S20), were viable.
IntDOT Interactions with Core- and Arm-Type Sites of the Conjugative Transposon CTnDOT
Authors: DiChiara Jeanne M. , Mattis Aras N. , Gardner Jeffrey F.
Published: February 2007

CTnDOT is a
Bacteroides
conjugative transposon (CTn) that has facilitated the spread of antibiotic resistances among bacteria in the human gut in recent years. Although the integrase encoded by CTnDOT (IntDOT) carries the C-terminal set of conserved amino acids that is characteristic of the tyrosine family of recombinases, the reaction it catalyzes involves a novel step that creates a short region of heterology at the joined ends of the element during recombination. Also, in contrast to tyrosine recombinases, IntDOT catalyzes a reaction that is not site specific. To determine what types of contacts IntDOT makes with the DNA during excision and integration, we first developed an agarose gel-based assay for CTnDOT recombination, which facilitated the purification of the native IntDOT protein. The partially purified IntDOT was then used for DNase I footprinting analysis of the integration site
attDOT
and the excision sites
attL
and
attR
. Our results indicate that CTnDOT has five or six arm sites that are likely to be involved in forming higher-order nucleoprotein complexes necessary for synapsis. In addition, there are four core sites that flank the sites of strand exchange during recombination. Thus, despite the fact that the reaction catalyzed by IntDOT appears to be different from that typically catalyzed by tyrosine recombinases, the protein-DNA interactions required for higher-order structures and recombination appear to be similar.
Microarray Analysis of Transposon Insertion Mutations inBacillus anthracis: Global Identification of Genes Required for Sporulation and Germination
Authors: Day William A. , Rasmussen Suzanne L. , Carpenter Beth M. , Peterson Scott N. , Friedlander Arthur M.
Published: February 2007

A transposon site hybridization (TraSH) assay was developed for functional analysis of theBacillus anthracisgenome using a mini-Tn10transposon which permitted analysis of 82% of this pathogen's genes. The system, used to identify genes required for generation of infectious anthrax spores, spore germination, and optimal growth on rich medium, was predictive of the contributions of two conserved hypothetical genes for the phenotypes examined.
Diagnosis of Human Metapneumovirus Infection in Immunosuppressed Lung Transplant Recipients and Children Evaluated for Pertussis
Authors: Dare Ryan , Sanghavi Sonali , Bullotta Arlene , Keightley Maria-Cristina , St. George Kirsten , Wadowsky Robert M. , Paterson David L. , McCurry Kenneth R. , Reinhart Todd A. , Husain Shahid , Rinaldo Charles R.
Published: February 2007

Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a recently discovered paramyxovirus that is known to cause respiratory tract infections in children and immunocompromised individuals. Given the difficulties of identifying hMPV by conventional culture, molecular techniques could improve the detection of this virus in clinical specimens. In this study, we developed a real-time reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) assay designed to detect the four genetic lineages of hMPV. This assay and a commercial real-time nucleic acid sequence-based amplification (NASBA) assay (bioMérieux, Durham, NC) were used to determine the prevalence of hMPV in 114 immunosuppressed asymptomatic and symptomatic lung transplant recipients and 232 pediatric patients who were being evaluated for pertussis. hMPV was detected in 4.3% of the immunosuppressed lung transplant recipients and in 9.9% of children evaluated for pertussis. Both RT-PCR and NASBA assays were efficient in detection of hMPV infection in respiratory specimens. Even though hMPV was detected in a small number of the lung transplant recipients, it was still the most prevalent etiologic agent detected in patients with respiratory symptoms. In both of these diverse patient populations, hMPV infection was the most frequent viral respiratory tract infection identified. Given our findings, infection with hMPV infection should be determined as part of the differential diagnosis of respiratory illnesses.
NON-LINEAR INTERACTION OF TWO INTENSE FIELDS WITH A THREE-LEVEL ATOMIC SYSTEM
Authors: ANSARI N. A. , JOVANOSKI Z. , SIDHU H. S. , TOWERS I.
Published: February 2007

The interaction between two intense fields with a closed three-level atomic system in the cascade configuration is considered. We derive the steady-state expressions for the field-induced susceptibilities which are valid for all field strengths for the two fields. In particular, we show that each field influences the steady-state susceptibility and absorption experienced by the other field.
Endothelin-1 and pancreatic islet vasculature: studies in vivo and on isolated, vascularly perfused pancreatic islets
Authors: Lai En Yin , Persson A. Erik G. , Bodin Birgitta , Källskog Örjan , Andersson Arne , Pettersson Ulrika , Hansell Peter , Jansson Leif
Published: February 2007

Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is a potent endothelium-derived vasoconstrictor, which also stimulates insulin release. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether exogenously administered ET-1 affected pancreatic islet blood flow in vivo in rats and the islet arteriolar reactivity in vitro in mice. Furthermore, we aimed to determine the ET-receptor subtype that was involved in such responses. When applying a microsphere technique for measurements of islet blood perfusion in vivo, we found that ET-1 (5 nmol/kg) consistently and markedly decreased total pancreatic and especially islet blood flow, despite having only minor effects on blood pressure. Neither endothelin A (ETA) receptor (BQ-123) nor endothelin-B (ETB) receptor (BQ-788) antagonists, alone or in combination, could prevent this reduction in blood flow. To avoid confounding interactions in vivo, we also examined the arteriolar vascular reactivity in isolated, perfused mouse islets. In the latter preparation, we demonstrated a dose-dependent constriction in response to ET-1. Administration of BQ-123 prevented this, whereas BQ-788 induced a right shift in the response. In conclusion, the pancreatic islet vasculature is highly sensitive to exogenous ET-1, which mediates its effect mainly through ETAreceptors.
Endogenous RGS proteins modulate SA and AV nodal functions in isolated heart: implications for sick sinus syndrome and AV block
Authors: Fu Ying , Huang Xinyan , Piao Lin , Lopatin Anatoli N. , Neubig Richard R.
Published: February 2007

G protein-coupled receptors play a pivotal role in regulating cardiac automaticity. Their function is controlled by regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins acting as GTPase-activating proteins for Gα subunits to suppress Gαiand Gαqsignaling. Using knock-in mice in which Gαi2-RGS binding and negative regulation are disrupted by a genomic Gαi2G184S (GS) point mutation, we recently (Fu Y, Huang X, Zhong H, Mortensen RM, D'Alecy LG, Neubig RR. Circ Res 98: 659–666, 2006) showed that endogenous RGS proteins suppress muscarinic receptor-mediated bradycardia. To determine whether this was due to direct regulation of cardiac pacemakers or to alterations in the central nervous system or vascular responses, we examined isolated, perfused hearts. Isoproterenol-stimulated beating rates of heterozygote (+/GS) and homozygote (GS/GS) hearts were significantly more sensitive to inhibition by carbachol than were those of wild type (+/+). Even greater effects were seen in the absence of isoproterenol; the potency of muscarinic-mediated bradycardia was enhanced fivefold in GS/GS and twofold in +/GS hearts compared with +/+. A1-adenosine receptor-mediated bradycardia was unaffected. In addition to effects on the sinoatrial node, +/GS and GS/GS hearts show significantly increased carbachol-induced third-degree atrioventricular (AV) block. Atrial pacing studies demonstrated an increased PR interval and AV effective refractory period in GS/GS hearts compared with +/+. Thus loss of the inhibitory action of endogenous RGS proteins on Gαi2potentiates muscarinic inhibition of cardiac automaticity and conduction. The severe carbachol-induced sinus bradycardia in Gαi2G184S mice suggests a possible role for alterations of Gαi2or RGS proteins in sick sinus syndrome and pathological AV block.
Refractory Anaemia with Excess of Blasts in Transformation Re-Evaluated with the WHO Criteria: Identification of Subgroups with Different Survival
Authors: Breccia Massimo , Latagliata Roberto , Carmosino Ida , Gentilini Fabiana , D’Elia Gianna Maria , Levi Anna , Natalino Fiammetta , Frustaci Annamaria , De Cuia Maria Rosaria , Alimena Giuliana
Published: January 2007

One of the major changes suggested by the World Health Organization (WHO) classification with respect to the French-American-British (FAB) proposal for myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) was to lower the bone marrow (BM) blast count from 30 to 20%, thus eliminating the refractory anaemia with excess of blasts in transformation (RAEB-t) category. However, a general consensus has not been reached, and several authors still retain RAEB-t as an MDS sub-entity. We re-evaluated our series of 74 patients classified as RAEB-t according to the FAB criteria by stratifying them into two subsets: patients with at least 5% peripheral blast (PB) cells but with BM blasts <20% (group I) and patients with BM blastosis between 20 and 30% and PBs <5% (group II). We found differences among the two groups regarding sex, haematological parameters at presentation (white blood cell and neutrophil counts, haemoglobin level) and frequency of infectious episodes during the course of disease. We did not find differences as to the frequency of acute myeloid leukaemia transformation, but a significant difference was evidenced as to survival (9.3 vs. 16 months in group I vs. group II, respectively; p = 0.02). Furthermore, at our institution, we compared the RAEB-t group I patients who, based on >5% PBs, should be included in the RAEB-II category according to the WHO criteria, with a group of 98 patients who were diagnosed as RAEB-II according to the WHO criteria. The findings showed that the aggregation of these two subsets appeared inappropriate, because patients of the two groups showed different clinical features and rates of acute transformation. In conclusion, the RAEB-t entity according to the FAB criteria, although including heterogeneous clinical patient subsets, should more likely be considered as an advanced stage of MDS, rather than a true acute myeloid leukaemia.
Long-Term Presence of HBV in the Sera of Chronic Hepatitis B Patients with HBsAg Seroclearance
Authors: Arase Yasuji , Suzuki Fumitaka , Suzuki Yoshiyuki , Saitoh Satoshi , Kobayashi Masahiro , Akuta Norio , Someya Takashi , Hosaka Tetsuya , Sezaki Hitomi , Sato Junko , Kobayashi Mariko , Ikeda Kenji , Kumada Hiromitsu
Published: January 2007

Objects: The aim of this study was to elucidate the presence of serum hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA at a prolonged time after seroclearance of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). Methods: Seventy Japanese patients who had been observed for >5 years after HBsAg seroclearance were included in this study. Anti-HBs, anti-HBe and anti-HBc antibodies were measured 0, 5 and 10 years after HBsAg seroclearance. Serum HBV DNA was measured using nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) at 0, 5 and 10 years after HBsAg seroclearance. The PCR detection of serum HBV DNA using the X gene and core gene primers was done. The HBV DNA was regarded as positive when PCR detection of HBV DNA using either or both the X gene and core gene primers was positive. A multivariate regression analysis was used to assess the factors contributing to the positivity of serum HBV DNA 5 years after HBsAg seroclearance: the factors examined included age, gender, histological findings, HBV genotype, aminotransferase, total protein and interferon administration. Results: The titers of 200-fold diluted serum anti-HBc were 6.5 ± 4.0 at 0 year after HBsAg seroclearance, 1.8 ± 1.4 at 5 years and 0.9 ± 0.7 at 10 years. The titers of 200-fold diluted serum anti-HBc decreased 5 and 10 years after HBsAg seroclearance with statistical significance. The positive rate of HBV DNA by the nested PCR was 71.4% (50/70) at 0 year after HBsAg seroclearance, 21.4% (15/70) at 5 years and 14.3% (3/21) at 10 years. However, there were no significant factors contributing to the positivity of serum HBV DNA 5 years after HBsAg seroclearance. Conclusion: Our results suggest that serum HBV DNA disappears with an incidence of 10–20% 5 and 10 years after HBsAg seroclearance.
Morphological Characterization of Hantavirus HV114 by Electron Microscopy
Authors: Xu Fangling , Yang Zhanqiu , Wang Lina , Lee Yao-Ling , Yang Chi-Chiang , Xiao Shu-Yuan , Xiao Hong , Wen Li
Published: January 2007

Objective: This study was sought to investigate the propagation and morphogenesis of a new strain of hantavirus, HV114. Methods: The urine of patient with epidemic hemorrhagic fever was inoculated to Vero E6 cells for the virus isolation. Electron microscopy was used to observe the isolated virus, HV114 and the variation of infected Vero E6 cells. Results: According to our observations, the size (90–120 nm) of HV114 is smaller than that reported previously as 110– 160 nm. While ribosome-like particles associated with virions originating from rodent hantaviruses were not observed in HV114, virion budding was exhibited. It suggests that the dumbbell-shaped particles may generated from the process of virion budding. The budding processes suggest that there are several sites for HV114 assembly and maturation, including the host endoplasmic reticulum-Golgi compartment and the host plasma membranes. Conclusions: The HV114 isolated from the urine of the patient is differed from other hantaviruses which were isolated from rat organs. HV114 might undergo changes during the viral transmission process from rodents to humans.
G1862T Mutation among Hepatitis B Virus-Infected Individuals: Association with Viral Genotypes and Disease Outcome in Kolkata, Eastern India
Authors: Chandra Partha K. , Banerjee Arup , Datta Sibnarayan , Chakravarty Runu
Published: January 2007

Objective: To study the prevalence of G1862T mutation in hepatitis B virus (HBV) isolates among Eastern Indian patients and its relationship with genotypes, HBeAg status and disease manifestation. Methods: HBV DNA was isolated from patients, amplified by nested PCR and sequenced directly. Results: Of the 102 patients, 32 were HBeAg positive and 70 HBeAg negative; 55, 24 and 23 isolates were infected with genotypes D, A and C, respectively. G1862T was detected in 18 samples, 15 (83%) of them belonged to genotype A (subgenotype HBV/A1), 3 (17%) to genotype D. This mutation was more frequent in HBeAg-negative than in HBeAg-positive patients (21 vs. 9%), whereas in HBV/A1 it was as common in HBeAg-positive as in HBeAg-negative patients and significantly associated with T1762/A1764 mutation. The mean viral load was lower in patients with G1862T mutation. Furthermore, this mutation was common in various clinical outcomes. Conclusion: In our community, G1862T mutation was predominantly found in HBV/A1 isolates irrespective of HBeAg status. Moreover this mutation could not be correlated to the clinical outcome. These findings indicate that the G1862T mutation is probably a part of the natural variability of HBV/A1.
Full-Length Sequences of Two Hepatitis E Virus Isolates Representing an Eastern China-Indigenous Subgroup of Genotype 4
Authors: Koike Masami , Takahashi Kazuaki , Mishiro Shunji , Matsui Atsushi , Inao Mie , Nagoshi Sumiko , Ohno Akihiko , Mochida Satoshi , Fujiwara Kenji
Published: January 2007

Although the majority of hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections in Japan are ‘domestic’ due to the presence of indigenous strains, there are still ‘imported’ cases as well. Among 83 patients with non-A, non-B and non-C acute liver diseases admitted to Saitama Medical University Hospital, 7 (8.4%) were positive for serum HEV-RNA, of whom 2 had a recent history of traveling to China, one to Xian and another to Shanghai. We determined the full-genome sequences of HEV from these 2 patients (isolate names are JKO-ChiSai98c and JYI-ChiSai01c, genotype 4 in both) for phylogenetic analyses. Initially, when compared only to the 13 full-genome sequences of genotype 4 so far reported, our 2 isolates were thought to be novel strains because they showed a significant genetic difference from the sequences known to date. However, when we included a set of short sequences (150 nt) recently reported from China in the comparison, we found that our 2 isolates represent a subgroup of genotype 4, which seems to be restricted to eastern China. In conclusion, the 2 HEV isolates reported here could serve as full-genome prototypes for an eastern China-indigenous subgroup of the genotype 4 HEV.
Is Inflammation the Link between Atherosclerosis and Vascular Calcification in Chronic Kidney Disease?
Authors: Tsirpanlis George
Published: January 2007

Atherosclerosis and vascular calcification often co-exist in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Although the former has been recently recognized as an active inflammatory process, atherosclerosis-related calcification of the intima is still viewed as a passive epiphenomenon. Recent experimental data showed that ossification of the internal vascular wall might also be an active inflammatory process interrelated to atherosclerosis. Factors like RANKL (receptor activator of nuclear factor ĸB ligand), RANK and osteoprotegerin modulate vascular calcification and at the same time are involved in the process of atherosclerosis. Moreover, basic calcium phosphate crystals could interact with and activate monocytes-macrophages that produce proinflammatory cytokines capable of initiating – via endothelial activation and leukocyte adhesion – the atherosclerotic process. Thus, vascular calcification might be an active player and not simply an epiphenomenon in atherosclerosis. Should the above-mentioned data be confirmed in future studies, calcification of the internal vascular wall and atherosclerosis might be viewed and treated as tightly interconnected and linked by inflammation processes in CKD patients.
Mechanisms of Vibration-Induced Nystagmus in Normal Subjects and Patients with Vestibular Neuritis
Authors: Park HongJu , Shin JungEun , Shim DaeBo
Published: January 2007

It has been reported that vibration applied either on the mastoid or on the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscles induces nystagmus in normal subjects or patients after unilateral vestibular neuritis (VN). The aims of the study were to characterize vibration-induced nystagmus (VIN) in normal and patient groups and to propose the mechanism of VIN. We recorded eye movements during unilateral 100-Hz vibration on the mastoid bone and SCM muscles in 22 normal subjects and 19 patients with unilateral VN. In normal subjects, the direction of slow-phase velocity (SPV) tended to be toward the vibrated side. Vibration on the right/left SCM muscles induced mean SPV of 1.7°/s, –1.9°/s toward the stimulated side in all normal subjects. Vibration on the right/left mastoid bone induced mean SPV of 1.5°/s, –0.4°/s toward the stimulated side in most of the normal subjects. Positive value means SPV to the right side. This directional preponderance to the vibrated side was statistically significant. Among the patients with VN, the slow phase of the VIN was directed towards the lesioned side, irrespective of whether vibration was applied on the lesioned or intact side. Vibration on the right/left mastoid bone induced mean SPV of –10.4°/s, –10.8°/s toward the lesioned side. Vibration on the right/left SCM induced mean SPV of –7.9°/s, –10.5°/s toward the lesioned side. The amplitude of SPV showed a significant correlation with the unilateral weakness of caloric test. Our results suggest that the proprioceptive stimulation plays a major role in producing VIN in normal subjects, while VIN is generated mostly by the vestibular stimulation in patients with unilateral VN, which helps us localize the lesion side. Vibration tests on the SCM muscles as well as on the mastoid are recommended and our hypothetic mechanisms of VIN are presented.
Post-Marketing Surveillance of the Safety of Levofloxacin in Japan
Authors: Yamaguchi Hiroki , Kawai Hitomi , Matsumoto Takuyuki , Yokoyama Hiroo , Nakayasu Toshio , Komiya Masahiro , Shimada Jingoro
Published: January 2007

Background: Central nervous system reactions to new quinolones, such as convulsions due to interaction with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), have attracted increased attention in Japan. Methods: The safety of levofloxacin (LVX) was investigated in Japan by post-marketing surveillance and reviewing spontaneous reports. Results: Post-marketing surveillance was performed in 16,117 patients between 1994 and 1996. The incidence of adverse reactions was 1.3% (203/16,117), being comparable with that for ofloxacin or that shown by phase II/III studies. Among 4,977 patients receiving concomitant NSAID treatment, the overall incidence of adverse reactions and the incidence of neurological reactions (including convulsions) did not significantly differ from those in patients without anti-inflammatory therapy. Review of the spontaneous reports on convulsions showed that patients with nephropathy, patients over 75 years and patients with a history of convulsive diseases were more likely to develop convulsions during LVX therapy. Conclusion: LVX should be used cautiously in patients with the above risk factors.
Quality of Life in Patients with Oesophageal and Gastric Cancer: An Overview
Authors: Conroy Thierry , Marchal Frédéric , Blazeby Jane M.
Published: January 2007

An accurate assessment of health-related quality of life (QoL) in patients with oesophageal or gastric cancer (OGC) is essential to inform clinical decisions by providing insights into patients’ experiences of the impact of the disease and its treatments on physical, social and emotional health. Robust QoL questionnaires have been developed and validated in the past decade to measure the QoL of OGC patients. Baseline QoL variables are also prognostic for survival in patients with oesophageal cancer or metastatic gastric cancer. This article reviews the impact of surgery and reconstructive techniques, as well as of adjuvant and palliative treatments on the QoL of patients with OGC.
Effects of α-Lipoic Acid on the Plasma Levels of Asymmetric Dimethylarginine in Diabetic End-Stage Renal Disease Patients on Hemodialysis: A Pilot Study
Authors: Chang Jai Won , Lee Eun Kyoung , Kim Tae Hee , Min Won Ki , Chun Sail , Lee Ki-Up , Kim Soon Bae , Park Jung Sik
Published: January 2007

Background/Aim: Endothelial dysfunction due to reduced nitric oxide (NO) availability precedes the development of atherosclerosis. Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), an endogenous inhibitor of NO synthase, is not only a cause of endothelial dysfunction, but also a predictor of the cardiovascular outcome in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients on hemodialysis (HD). α-Lipoic acid (ALA), a strong antioxidant, increases NO-mediated vasodilation in diabetic patients. We investigated whether ALA could decrease the plasma level of ADMA in diabetic ESRD patients on HD. Methods: Fifty patients undergoing HD three times per week were randomized to a treatment group receiving ALA 600 mg/day for 12 weeks or a control group. We measured the plasma levels of cholesterol, albumin, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, oxidized low-density lipoprotein, hemoglobin A1c, and ADMA in both groups at baseline and at 12 weeks. Results: In the control group, the levels of total cholesterol, serum albumin, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, oxidized low-density lipoprotein, hemoglobin A1c, and ADMA did not change. In the treatment group, the plasma levels of ADMA decreased significantly from a median of 1.68 (range 0.45–3.78) µM to a median of 1.31 (range 0.25–3.19) µM (p = 0.001). Conclusion: Considering that ADMA is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular outcome in ESRD patients, ALA may have the potential of a beneficial effect in them, in part by decreasing the plasma level of ADMA.
Multiple Target Deep Brain Stimulation for Multiple Sclerosis Related and Poststroke Holmes’ Tremor
Authors: Lim Daniel A. , Khandhar Suketu M. , Heath Susan , Ostrem Jill L. , Ringel Nancy , Starr Philip
Published: January 2007

Background: The results from thalamic deep brain stimulation (DBS) for atypical tremor syndromes including tremor from multiple sclerosis (MS) and stroke are often disappointing. Three recent case reports have suggested that simultaneous stimulation of multiple thalamic targets can result in sustained improvement in such cases. Methods: We analyzed the effectiveness of multiple target DBS in one patient with MS-related tremor and another with poststroke Holmes’ tremor. Results: In the patient with MS tremor, we implanted bilateral ventralis intermedius (V.im.) and ventralis oralis anterior (V.o.a.) thalamic electrodes; this patient had significant tremor improvement with stimulation of either V.im. or V.o.a. targets; however, we did not observe additive effects with simultaneous stimulation. In our patient with a poststroke Holmes’ tremor, we implanted DBS electrodes in unilateral V.im., V.o.a., and the globus pallidus internus (Gpi); this patient had moderate tremor reduction with Gpi stimulation alone; neither V.im. nor V.o.a. stimulation provided additional benefit. Conclusion: In one patient with MS tremor, simultaneous V.im. and V.o.a. stimulation was not superior to V.im. or V.o.a. stimulation alone. In one case of Holmes’ tremor, Gpi stimulation was a useful alternative to thalamic stimulation.
Modifications of Phleum pratense Grass Pollen Allergens following Artificial Exposure to Gaseous Air Pollutants (O3, NO2, SO2)
Authors: Rogerieux F. , Godfrin D. , Sénéchal H. , Motta A.C. , Marlière M. , Peltre G. , Lacroix G.
Published: January 2007

Background: Air pollution is frequently proposed as a potential cause of the increased incidence of allergy in industrialised countries. Our objective was to investigate the impact of the major gaseous air pollutants on grass pollen allergens. Methods: Timothy grass pollen was exposed to ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and sulphur dioxide (SO2) alone or in combination. Allergen contents were analysed by 2-dimensional immunoblot using grass pollen-sensitive patient sera. Results: For O3-treated pollen, immunoblotting showed an acidification of allergens Phl p 1b, Phl p 4, Phl p 5 and Phl p 6 and an IgE recognition decrease in Phl p 1, Phl p 2, Phl p 6 and Phl p 13. NO2 exposure induced a decrease in Phl p 2, Phl p 5b and Phl p 6 recognition, and SO2 treatment induced a decrease in Phl p 2, Phl p 6 and Phl p 13 recognition. Moreover, samples treated with a mix of NO2/O3 or NO2/SO2 showed a higher decrease in allergen content, compared with samples treated with only one pollutant. The O3 acidification was also observed with the NO2/O3 mix. Conclusion: Exposure of pollen to gaseous pollutants induced a decrease in allergen detection in pollen extracts. This decrease could be due to a mechanical loss of allergens from the altered pollen grains and/or post-translational modifications affecting allergen recognition by IgE.
Latex Allergy within a Cohort of Not-at-Risk Subjects with Respiratory Symptoms: Prevalence of Latex Sensitization and Assessment of Diagnostic Tools
Authors: Mari Adriano , Scala Enrico , D’Ambrosio Claudio , Breiteneder Heimo , Wagner Stefan
Published: January 2007

Background: Immunoglobluin E (IgE)-mediated hypersensitivity to natural rubber latex (NRL) is a major problem in allergy practice. Currently, the use of skin prick tests (SPTs) with latex extracts and specific IgE detection for the diagnosis of NRL allergy in suspected patients is directed to identification of risk factors. Many cases of NRL allergy remain undiagnosed due to misreporting of symptoms by the patients or lack of proper questions asked by the physician. Materials and Methods: A total of 6,126 subjects referred for respiratory symptoms underwent SPTs with NRL. Positive subjects were resurveyed for exposure to NRL, and specific IgE for NRL extracts and recombinant molecules was determined. Immunoblots of NRL extracts were performed to identify IgE patterns. Results: Forty-six of 3,930 sensitized subjects had a positive SPT with NRL, displaying a prevalence of NRL sensitization of 0.75% for the general and 1.2% for the sensitized population. Eleven out of 46 (23.9%) subjects could be defined as NRL asymptomatic, whereas 35 (76.1%) developed symptoms upon exposure to NRL. Specific IgE to NRL was detected for 22 (75.86%) of 29 tested sera. Seventeen out of 22 (77%) sera displayed specific IgE to recombinant allergens with most reactions to Hev b 5, Hev b 6.01 and Hev b 6.02. Immunoblots of NRL extract fractions with patients’ sera showed heterogeneous patterns. Conclusions: SPTs with NRL extract should be routinely performed in patients with respiratory symptoms. Hev b 5, Hev b 6.01 and Hev b 6.02 are the most important allergens, but further characterization of NRL extracts is needed to identify novel allergens and to clarify the role of crossreactive carbohydrate determinants.
Influence of Local Treatments with Capsaicin or Allyl Isothiocyanate in the Sensitization Phase of a Fluorescein-Isothiocyanate-Induced Contact Sensitivity Model
Authors: Maruyama Takashi , Iizuka Hiromi , Tobisawa Yuki , Shiba Takahiro , Matsuda Tomoko , Kurohane Kohta , Imai Yasuyuki
Published: January 2007

Background: In fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-induced contact hypersensitivity models, dibutyl phthalate has been empirically used as a solvent ingredient. We have demonstrated that dibutyl phthalate has an adjuvant effect through the facilitation of trafficking FITC-presenting dendritic cells (DC) from the skin to draining lymph nodes. Here we investigated the effects of local pretreatment with substances that are capable of desensitizing sensory neurons in the sensitization phase. Methods: Local pretreatment of BALB/c mice with capsaicin (epicutaneous), allyl isothiocyanate (epicutaneous) or a truncated form of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP8–37; intradermal) was performed before contact sensitization to FITC. The ear swelling test was employed to monitor sensitization. The appearance of FITC-presenting CD11c-positive cells in the draining lymph nodes was detected by flow cytometry. Cytokine production in local lymph node cell cultures was determined by ELISA. Results: The ear swelling response was reduced in mice pretreated with capsaicin or allyl isothiocyanate. DC trafficking and maturation (based on the levels of costimulators CD80 and CD86) were inhibited. Interleukin-4 production by local lymph nodes was suppressed with allyl isothiocyanate but not with capsaicin. Pretreatment with CGRP8–37 suppressed sensitization to FITC. Conclusions: Local pretreatment with substances that are capable of desensitizing sensory neurons through the respective transient receptor potential channels suppressed skin sensitization to FITC in a mouse model. This was associated with reduced trafficking and maturation of FITC-presenting DC. A CGRP antagonist also suppressed the sensitization to FITC, suggesting the possible involvement of sensory neurons in sensitization.
The Malassezia Sympodialis Allergen Mala s 11 Induces Human Dendritic Cell Maturation, in Contrast to Its Human Homologue Manganese Superoxide Dismutase
Authors: Vilhelmsson Monica , Johansson Catharina , Jacobsson-Ekman Gunilla , Crameri Reto , Zargari Arezou , Scheynius Annika
Published: January 2007

Background: Recently, we identified a major Malassezia sympodialis allergen, Mala s 11, which displays a high degree of DNA sequence homology to human manganese superoxide dismutase (hMnSOD). In atopic eczema patients sensitized to M. sympodialis, hMnSOD can elicit eczematous reactions and positive skin prick tests, suggesting cross- reactivity to Mala s 11 based on molecular mimicry. The objective of the current study was to compare the influence of Mala s 11 and hMnSOD on human dendritic antigen-presenting cells. Methods: Monocyte-derived dendritic cells (MDDCs) from healthy blood donors were co-cultured with recombinant Mala s 11 (rMala s 11), recombinant hMnSOD (rhMnSOD), lipopolysaccharide or cultured in medium alone. Phenotypic changes were analysed using flow cytometry and allogeneic lymphocyte proliferation assays. Cytokine release into culture supernatants was investigated using cytometric bead array. Results: Whereas rhMnSOD did not affect the MDDC phenotype, rMala s 11 up-regulated the maturation marker CD83, the co-stimulatory molecules CD40, CD80, CD86 and HLA-DR to a similar extent as lipopolysaccharide. Furthermore, rMala s 11, but not rhMnSOD, induced significantly higher levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and IL-12p70 in the culture supernatants at 24 h in comparison with MDDCs cultured in medium alone. Finally, MDDCs pre-incubated with rMala s 11 induced a significantly higher proliferation of allogeneic CD14-depleted peripheral blood monocytes than MDDCs pre-incubated with rhMnSOD. Conclusion: Our results suggest that Mala s 11, but not hMnSOD, affects the immune response of healthy individuals through dendritic cell maturation and cytokine release. This indicates that dendritic cells possess the ability to distinguish between Mala s 11 and its human homologue MnSOD.
Breeding traits of Hermann's tortoise Testudo hermanni hermanni in two western populations
Authors: Bertolero Albert , Nougarède Jean Pierre , Cheylan Marc , Marín Aurelio
Published: February 2007

Over a period of two years we used radiology to investigate breeding traits
in females of two western populations of the threatened Hermann's tortoise
Testudo hermanni hermanni. The main purpose of the study was to see if
reproductive traits – clutch size, clutch frequency, annual egg production
and egg width – varied between populations in Corsica (France) and the Ebro
Delta (Spain), and if these traits were affected by female body size and
amounts of spring rainfall. All the breeding traits analysed were greater in
the Corsican population than in the Ebro Delta population. These differences
were also significant when we used female body size as a covariable. In both
populations the amount of spring rainfall affected breeding traits but not
clutch size. Nevertheless, only in the Corsican population did clutch
frequency, annual egg production and egg width increase significantly in the
year with a wet spring. Contrary to the predictions of Optimal Propagule
Size theory, we found that egg size and clutch size increased with female
size, and that both variables were independent. On the other hand, clutch
frequency was not related to female body size. Thus, in the Hermann's
tortoise, as clutch size did not change between years and clutch frequency
was independent of female size, all females are able to increase their
reproductive output in years with favourable conditions by increasing their
clutch frequency. Nevertheless, other factors besides female size and
rainfall may influence in a highly complex way variability in breeding
traits among populations.
The impacts of selective logging on three sympatric species of Leptodactylus in a Central Guyana rainforest
Authors: Ernst Raffael , Konrad Tillmann , Linsenmair K. Eduard , Rödel Mark-Oliver
Published: February 2007

Selective logging has the potential to significantly alter environmental
conditions experienced by both larval and adult amphibians and, therefore,
may affect the population viability of particular species. In this study we
evaluated the impacts of selective logging on the occurrence, larval
development, and survival of three sympatric foam nest-constructing
Leptodactylus species in a central Guyanan rainforest. The occurrence and
abundance of adults differed among species and between habitat complexes.
Species-habitat associations appeared to be linked to species-specific
reproductive habitat requirements. The response of tadpoles to
logging-related habitat alterations varied among species. Experiments on one
of the focal species showed that tadpole development and growth depend on
larval residence time within foam nests, and on environmental factors
related to solar exposure and temperature of aquatic habitats. Tadpoles that
were reared in foam nests over extended periods of time showed significant
decrease in body mass. Tadpoles reared under exposed conditions developed
more slowly than those reared under shaded conditions. Likewise, larval
growth decelerated in the former. Larval survival differed among species and
between habitats. Species-specific responses to disturbance-related
environmental changes indicate that simplified generalizations that do not
take into account species-specific variation are problematic. We, therefore,
argue that sound conservation strategies for this group of amphibians would
benefit by moving from generalizations to species specific
recommendations.
Bergmann's rule and the Italian Hermann's tortoises (Testudo hermanni): latitudinal variations of size and shape
Authors: Sacchi Roberto , Pupin Fabio , Rosa Daniele Pellitteri , Fasola Mauro
Published: February 2007

We used geometric morphometric analysis to investigate latitudinal variation
in size and shape of carapace and plastron of 111 Testudo hermanni hermanni
(60 males and 51 females) collected in 6 different Italian regions. Basing
on a sample of 14 landmarks for carapace and 18 landmarks for plastron, we
showed that the size and shape of both sexes changed according to a
North-South cline following the Bergmann's rule, tortoises of Northern Italy
being 1.1-1.2 larger than that of Southern Italy. Shape variation was higher
in carapace probably because sexual selection in this species acts stronger
on plastron than on carapace shape.
The nematode community in cyanobacterial biofilms in the river Llobregat, Spain
Authors: Muñoz Isabel , Gaudes Ainhoa , Sabater Sergi , Vilalta Elisabet
Published: February 2007

The aim of our study was to understand the role of the nematode community in a cyanobacterial-dominated biofilm located in the river Llobregat, NE Spain. This biofilm was mainly composed of oscillatorial species and diatoms. Fractions of these mats can become detached from the substrata and become free-floating, dispersing downstream and acquiring different structural and physiological properties. Both cyanobacterial biofilms, attached and free-floating, were compared with another benthic biofilm that occurred in the reach of the river that was studied. The nematode diversity was restricted, and was dominated by Chromadorita leuckarti, Diplogaster rivalis, Plectus parvus, Neotobrilus diversipapillatus, Monhystera spp., Dorylaimus sp. and Mononchus sp. Nematode density and biomass were significantly greater in the free-floating biofilm (maximum values of 752 ind/cm2 and 171.3 μgC/cm2). Different trophic and sexual strategies were observed. The free-floating biofilm showed higher abundances of juveniles and a high proportion of gravid females. A positive correlation was observed between cyanobacterial density and the abundance of juveniles or adults of the commonest nematode species, indicating their potential as food resources.