bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
OBSERVATION OF SINGLE TOP QUARK PRODUCTION AT THE TEVATRON COLLIDER
Authors: HEINSON A. P.
Published: March 2010

On March 4, 2009, the DØ and CDF collaborations at Fermilab's Tevatron Collider submitted papers to Physical Review Letters announcing observation of single top quark production.1,2 This review paper describes the successful searches carried out independently by the two collaborations, allowing the reader to see the similarities and differences that led to the simultaneous discoveries. Both collaborations measured a cross section [Formula: see text] consistent with the standard model prediction at 5.0 standard deviation significance, and set a lower limit on the quark mixing matrix element |Vtb| without assuming matrix unitarity with three quark generations.
COLEMAN–DE LUCCIA TUNNELING AND THE GIBBONS–HAWKING TEMPERATURE
Authors: HENRY TYE S.-H. , WOHNS DANIEL , ZHANG YANG
Published: March 2010

We study Coleman–de Luccia tunneling in some detail. We show that, for a single scalar field potential with a true and a false vacuum, there are four types of tunneling, depending on the properties of the potential. A general tunneling process involves a combination of thermal (Gibbons–Hawking temperature) fluctuation part way up the barrier followed by quantum tunneling. The thin-wall approximation is a special limit of the case (of only quantum tunneling) where inside the nucleation bubble is the true vacuum while the outside reaches the false vacuum. Hawking–Moss tunneling is the (only thermal fluctuation) limit of the case where the inside of the bubble does not reach the true vacuum at the moment of its creation, and the outside is cut off by the de Sitter horizon before it reaches the false vacuum. A typical tunneling process is a combination of thermal and quantum tunnelings. We estimate the tunneling rate for this case and find that the corrections to the Hawking–Moss formula can be large. In all cases, we see that the Euclidean action of the bounce decreases rapidly as the vacuum energy density increases, signaling that the tunneling is not exponentially suppressed. This phenomenon may be interpreted as a finite temperature effect due to the Gibbons–Hawking temperature of the de Sitter space. As an application, we discuss the implication of this tunneling property to the cosmic landscape.
SLAVNOV–TAYLOR IDENTITIES
Authors: SLAVNOV ANDREI A.
Published: March 2010

Slavnov–Taylor identities: relations between Green functions, which provide the gauge invariance of the quantum theory including non-Abelian gauge fields.
Food Safety: What Can We Learn From Genomics?
Authors: Begley M , Hill Colin
Published: March 2010

The entire genome sequences of numerous foodborne pathogens have been determined, and genome sequencing projects of many others are currently underway. The resulting sequence information will permit detailed bioinformatic analyses and provide direction for subsequent functional analyses. Genomics-driven studies will have many applications in food safety, such as assisting with the development of tools for the rapid detection and identification of pathogens and helping to provide insights into their evolution, biology, and ecological fitness. These studies will also aid in elucidating the mechanisms employed by pathogens as they adapt to the variety of conditions encountered throughout their life cycle, from the food-processing environment to in vivo during infection. It is anticipated that genomics will aid in the development of novel preventative and control strategies, which in turn will ultimately lead to a safer food supply.
Functional Oligosaccharides: Application and Manufacture
Authors: Rastall R.A.
Published: March 2010

Oligosaccharides are attracting increasing interest as prebiotic functional food ingredients. They can be extracted or obtained by enzymatic hydrolysis from a variety of biomass sources or synthesized from simple oligosaccharides by enzymatic transfer reactions. The major prebiotic oligosaccharides on the market are inulin, fructo-oligosaccharides, and galacto-oligosaccharides. They have been evaluated using a range of in vitro and in vivo methods, although there is a need for more large-scale human trials using modern microbiological methods. Prebiotics are being studied for their effects on gut health and well being and specific clinical conditions, including colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), acute infections, and mineral absorption. Developing understanding of the functional ecology of the human gut is influencing current thinking on what a prebiotic might achieve and is providing new targets for prebiotic intervention.
Anthocyanins: Natural Colorants with Health-Promoting Properties
Authors: He Jian , Giusti M. Monica
Published: March 2010

Anthocyanins are flavonoids in fruits and vegetables that render them vivid red to blue. To date, there have been more than 635 anthocyanins identified in nature, featuring six common aglycones and various types of glycosylations and acylations. Dietary consumption of anthocyanins is high compared to other flavonoids, owing to their wide distribution in plant materials. Based upon many cell-line studies, animal models, and human clinical trials, it has been suggested that anthocyanins possess anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic activity, cardiovascular disease prevention, obesity control, and diabetes alleviation properties, all of which are more or less associated with their potent antioxidant property. Evidence suggests that absorption of anthocyanins occurs in the stomach and small intestine. Epithelial tissue uptake seems to be highly efficient, yet transportation into circulation, tissue distribution, and urine excretion are very limited. The bioactivity of bioavailable anthocyanins should be a focus of future research regarding their putative health-promoting effects.
Crosslinking Food Proteins for Improved Functionality
Authors: Buchert Johanna , Ercili Cura Dilek , Ma Hairan , Gasparetti Chiara , Monogioudi Evanthia , Faccio Greta , Mattinen Maija , Boer Harry , Partanen Riitta , Selinheimo Emilia , Lantto Raija , Kruus Kristiina
Published: March 2010

Different possibilities for protein crosslinking are examined in this review, with special emphasis on enzymatic crosslinking and its impact on food structure. Among potential enzymes for protein crosslinking are transglutaminase (TG) and various oxidative enzymes. Crosslinking enzymes can be applied in cereal, dairy, meat, and fish processing to improve the texture of the product. Most of the current commercial applications are based on TG. The reaction mechanisms of the crosslinking enzymes differ, which in turn results in different technological properties.
Water-Solids Interactions: Deliquescence
Authors: Mauer Lisa J. , Taylor Lynne S.
Published: March 2010

Deliquescence is a first order phase transition from solid to solution that occurs at a relative humidity (RH) that is characteristic to the solid ingredient. In blends containing more than one component with deliquescent behavior, the RH of the solid-solution transition will be lowered, leading to some level of dissolution at relatively low RH conditions. Dissolution arising as a result of deliquescence will impact the chemical and physical stability of complex food systems. Because chemical reactions occur much more readily in solution, deliquescence will enhance the degradation of labile food ingredients. RH fluctuations will lead to cycles of deliquescence and efflorescence (crystallization), which will contribute to particle agglomeration and caking. This review addresses the phenomenon of deliquescence, the significance of deliquescence to the food industry, measurement techniques, the kinetics and thermodynamics of deliquescence, the behavior of mixtures of deliquescent salts (including phase diagrams and thermodynamics of binary systems), and consequences of deliquescence on chemical and physical stability of powdered food and nutritional ingredient blends.
Phage and Their Lysins as Biocontrol Agents for Food Safety Applications
Authors: Cof fey Brid , Mills Susan , Coffey Aidan , McAuliffe Olivia , Ross R. Paul
Published: March 2010

Bacteriophage (phage) are bacterial viruses and are considered to be the most widely distributed and diverse natural biological entities. Soon after their discovery, bacteriophage were found to have antimicrobial properties that were exploited in many early anti-infection trials. However, the subsequent discovery of antibiotics led to a decline in the popularity of bacteriophage in much of the Western world, although work continued in the former Soviet Union and Eastern Europe. As a result of the emergence of antibiotic resistance in a number of bacterial pathogens, focus has been redirected back to bacteriophage and bacteriophage lysins as a means of pathogen control. Although bacteriophage have certain limitations, significant progress has been made toward their applications in food and has resulted in the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approving the use of a bacteriophage-based additive for the control of Listeria monocytogenes contamination. Furthermore, a number of animal studies have revealed the potential of bacteriophage for the control of various foodborne pathogens within the animal gastrointestinal tract and to subsequently decrease the likelihood of foodborne outbreaks. From a biopreservative perspective, phage have a number of key properties, including relative stability during storage, an ability to self-replicate, and a nontoxic nature. The purpose of this review is to highlight the recent developments in the use of phages and their lysins for biocontrol and to address their potential future applications.
An Update on the Health Effects of Tomato Lycopene
Authors: Story Erica N. , Kopec Rachel E. , Schwartz Steven J. , Harris G. Keith
Published: March 2010

Lycopene is a non-provitamin A carotenoid that is responsible for the red to pink colors seen in tomatoes, pink grapefruit, and other foods. Processed tomato products are the primary dietary lycopene source in the United States. Unlike many other natural compounds, lycopene is generally stable to processing when present in the plant tissue matrix. Recently, lycopene has also been studied in relation to its potential health effects. Although promising data from epidemiological, as well as cell culture and animal, studies suggest that lycopene and the consumption of lycopene containing foods may affect cancer or cardiovascular disease risk, more clinical trial data is needed to support this hypothesis. In addition, future studies are required to understand the mechanism(s) whereby lycopene or its metabolites are proven to possess biological activity in humans.
Functional Genomics for Food Fermentation Processes
Authors: Smid E.J. , Hugenholtz J.
Published: March 2010

This review describes recent scientific and technological drivers of food fermentation research. In addition, a number of practical implications of the results of this development will be highlighted. The first part of the manuscript elaborates on the message that genome sequence information gives us an unprecedented view on the biodiversity of microbes in food fermentation. This information can be made applicable for tailoring relevant characteristics of food products through fermentation. The second part deals with the integration of genome sequence data into metabolic models and the use of these models for a number of topics that are relevant for food fermentation processes. The final part will be about metagenomics approaches to reveal the complexity and understand the functionality of undefined complex microbial consortia used in a diverse range of food fermentation processes.
Transient hypoxia induces ERK-dependent anti-apoptotic cell survival in endothelial cells
Authors: Härtel F. V. , Holl M. , Arshad M. , Aslam M. , Gündüz D. , Weyand M. , Micoogullari M. , Abdallah Y. , Piper H. M. , Noll T.
Published: March 2010

Ischemia-induced apoptosis of endothelial cells may contribute to tissue injury, organ failure, and transplantation rejection. However, little is known about survival mechanisms capable to counteract endothelial apoptosis. This study investigated the potential role of an endogenous anti-apoptotic response elicited by transient hypoxia, capable to avert ongoing apoptosis in endothelial cells. Experiments were carried out in three different types of cultured endothelial cells (human umbilical vein, pig aorta, and from rat coronary microvasculature). As a pro-apoptotic challenge endothelial cells were cultured in serum-free medium and subjected to hypoxia for 2 h. We found that transient hypoxia reduced caspase 3 activation within 1 h of hypoxia. Accordingly, the number of apoptotic cells was reduced after 24 h of reoxygenation. This was true for all three cell types analyzed. Analysis of Akt and mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathways revealed that hypoxia induced a transient activation of ERK 2 but not of Akt. ERK 2 phosphorylation preceded the phosphorylation of pro-apoptotic molecule Bad at Ser112, an inhibitory phosphorylation site specific for ERK. The protective effects of hypoxia regarding Bad phosphorylation, caspase 3 activation, and apoptosis were abolished by MEK 1/2 inhibitors, PD98059 or UO126, as well as by antisense oligonucleotides directed against ERK 1/2. Furthermore, inhibition of this pathway inhibited hypoxia-induced increase in mitochondrial membrane potential. The present study demonstrates that transient hypoxia induces a novel survival mechanism that protects endothelial cells against apoptosis. This endogenous process involves MEK/ERK-mediated inhibition of the pro-apoptotic molecule Bad and caspase 3.
ZO-1 is involved in trophoblastic cell differentiation in human placenta
Authors: Pidoux Guillaume , Gerbaud Pascale , Gnidehou Sédami , Grynberg Michael , Geneau Graziello , Guibourdenche Jean , Carette Diane , Cronier Laurent , Evain-Brion Danièle , Malassiné André , Frendo Jean-Louis
Published: March 2010

Trophoblastic cell-cell fusion is an essential event required during human placental development. Several membrane proteins have been described to be directly involved in this process, including connexin 43 (Cx43), syncytin 1 (Herv-W env), and syncytin 2 (Herv-FRD env glycoprotein). Recently, zona occludens (ZO) proteins (peripheral membrane proteins associated with tight junctions, adherens junctions, and gap junctions) were shown to be involved in mouse placental development. Moreover, zona occludens 1 (ZO-1) was localized mainly at the intercellular boundaries between human trophoblastic cells. Therefore the role of ZO-1 in the dynamic process of human trophoblastic cell-cell fusion was investigated using primary trophoblastic cells in culture. In vitro as in situ, ZO-1 was localized mainly at the intercellular boundaries between trophoblastic cells where its expression substantially decreased during differentiation and during fusion. At the same time, Cx43 was localized at the interface of trophoblastic cells and its expression increased during differentiation. To determine a functional role for ZO-1 during trophoblast differentiation, small interfering RNA (siRNA) was used to knock down ZO-1 expression. Cytotrophoblasts treated with ZO-1 siRNA fused poorly, but interestingly, decreased Cx43 expression without altering the functionality of trophoblastic cell-cell communication as measured by relative permeability time constant determined using gap-FRAP experiments. Because kinetics of Cx43 and ZO-1 proteins show a mirror image, a potential association of these two proteins was investigated. By using coimmunoprecipitation experiments, a physical interaction between ZO-1 and Cx43 was demonstrated. These results demonstrate that a decrease in ZO-1 expression reduces human trophoblast cell-cell fusion and differentiation.
Interleukin-7 mediates glucose utilization in lymphocytes through transcriptional regulation of the hexokinase II gene
Authors: Chehtane Mounir , Khaled Annette R.
Published: March 2010

The cytokine interleukin-7 (IL-7) has essential growth activities that maintain the homeostatic balance of the immune system. Little is known of the mechanism by which IL-7 signaling regulates metabolic activity in support of its vital function in lymphocytes. We observed that IL-7 deprivation caused a rapid decline in the metabolism of glucose that was attributable to loss of intracellular glucose retention. To identify the transducer of the IL-7 metabolic signal, we examined the expression of three important regulators of glucose metabolism, the glucose transporter GLUT-1 and two glycolytic enzymes, hexokinase II (HXKII) and phosphofructokinase-1 (PFK-1), using an IL-7-dependent T-cell line and primary lymphocytes. We found that in lymphocytes deprived of IL-7 loss of glucose uptake correlated with decreased expression of HXKII. Readdition of IL-7 to cytokine-deprived lymphocytes restored the transcription of the HXKII gene within 2 h, but not that of GLUT-1 or PFK-1. IL-7-mediated increases in HXKII, but not GLUT-1 or PFK-1, were also observed at the protein level. Inhibition of HXKII with 3-bromopyruvate or specific small-interfering RNA decreased glucose utilization, as well as ATP levels, in the presence of IL-7, whereas overexpression of HXKII, but not GLUT-1, restored glucose retention and increased ATP levels in the absence of IL-7. We conclude that IL-7 controls glucose utilization by regulating the gene expression of HXKII, suggesting a mechanism by which IL-7 supports bioenergetics that control cell fate decisions in lymphocytes.
Noninvasive stool-based detection of infant gastrointestinal development using gene expression profiles from exfoliated epithelial cells
Authors: Chapkin Robert S. , Zhao Chen , Ivanov Ivan , Davidson Laurie A. , Goldsby Jennifer S. , Lupton Joanne R. , Mathai Rose Ann , Monaco Marcia H. , Rai Deshanie , Russell W. Michael , Donovan Sharon M. , Dougherty Edward R.
Published: March 2010

We have developed a novel molecular methodology that utilizes stool samples containing intact sloughed epithelial cells to quantify intestinal gene expression profiles in the developing human neonate. Since nutrition exerts a major role in regulating neonatal intestinal development and function, our goal was to identify gene sets (combinations) that are differentially regulated in response to infant feeding. For this purpose, fecal mRNA was isolated from exclusively breast-fed ( n = 12) and formula-fed ( n = 10) infants at 3 mo of age. Linear discriminant analysis was successfully used to identify the single genes and the two- to three-gene combinations that best distinguish the feeding groups. In addition, putative “master” regulatory genes were identified using coefficient of determination analysis. These results support our premise that mRNA isolated from stool has value in terms of characterizing the epigenetic mechanisms underlying the developmentally regulated transcriptional activation/repression of genes known to modulate gastrointestinal function. As larger data sets become available, this methodology can be extended to validation and, ultimately, identification of the main nutritional components that modulate intestinal maturation and function.
PAI-1 plays a protective role in CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis in mice: role of hepatocyte division
Authors: von Montfort Claudia , Beier Juliane I. , Kaiser J. Phillip , Guo Luping , Joshi-Barve Swati , Pritchard Michele T. , States J. Christopher , Arteel Gavin E.
Published: March 2010

Plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) is an acute phase protein that has been shown to play a role in experimental fibrosis caused by bile duct ligation (BDL) in mice. However, its role in more severe models of hepatic fibrosis (e.g., carbon tetrachloride; CCl4) has not been determined and is important for extrapolation to human disease. Wild-type or PAI-1 knockout mice were administered CCl4(1 ml/kg body wt ip) 2×/wk for 4 wk. Plasma (e.g., transaminase activity) and histological (e.g., Sirius red staining) indexes of liver damage and fibrosis were evaluated. Proliferation and apoptosis were assessed by PCNA and TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) staining, respectively, as well as by indexes of cell cycle (e.g., p53, cyclin D1). In contrast to previous studies with BDL, hepatic fibrosis was enhanced in PAI-1−/−mice after chronic CCl4administration. Indeed, all indexes of liver damage were elevated in PAI-1−/−mice compared with wild-type mice. This enhanced liver damage correlated with impaired hepatocyte proliferation. A similar effect on proliferation was observed after one bolus dose of CCl4, without concomitant increases in liver damage. Under these conditions, a decrease in phospho-p38, coupled with elevated p53 protein, was observed; these results suggest impaired proliferation and a potential G1/S cell cycle arrest in PAI-1−/−mice. These data suggest that PAI-1 may play multiple roles in chronic liver diseases, both protective and damaging, the latter mediated by its influence on inflammation and fibrosis and the former via helping maintain hepatocyte division after an injury.
Effects of photoperiod on daily locomotor activity, energy expenditure, and feeding behavior in a seasonal mammal
Authors: Warner Amy , Jethwa Preeti H. , Wyse Catherine A. , I'Anson Helen , Brameld John M. , Ebling Francis J. P.
Published: March 2010

The objective of this study was to determine whether the previously observed effects of photoperiod on body weight in Siberian hamsters were due to changes in the daily patterns of locomotor activity, energy expenditure, and/or feeding behavior. Adult males were monitored through a seasonal cycle using an automated comprehensive laboratory animal monitoring system (CLAMS). Exposure to a short-day photoperiod (SD; 8:16-h light-dark cycle) induced a significant decline in body weight, and oxygen consumption (V̇o2), carbon dioxide production (V̇co2), and heat production all decreased reaching a nadir by 16 wk of SD. Clear daily rhythms in locomotor activity, V̇o2, and V̇co2 were observed at the start of the study, but these all progressively diminished after prolonged exposure to SD. Rhythms in feeding behavior were also detected initially, reflecting an increase in meal frequency but not duration during the dark phase. This rhythm was lost by 8 wk of SD exposure such that food intake was relatively constant across dark and light phases. After 18 wk in SD, hamsters were transferred to a long-day photoperiod (LD; 16:8-h light-dark cycle), which induced significant weight gain. This was associated with an increase in energy intake within 2 wk, while V̇o2, V̇co2, and heat production all increased back to basal levels. Rhythmicity was reestablished within 4 wk of reexposure to long days. These results demonstrate that photoperiod impacts on body weight via complex changes in locomotor activity, energy expenditure, and feeding behavior, with a striking loss of daily rhythms during SD exposure.
Effect of maternal undernutrition on vascular expression of micro and messenger RNA in newborn and aging offspring
Authors: Khorram O. , Han G. , Bagherpour R. , Magee T. R. , Desai M. , Ross M. G. , Chaudhri A. A. , Toloubeydokhti T. , Pearce W. J.
Published: March 2010

The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that maternal undernutrition (MUN) alters offspring vascular expression of micro-RNAs (miRNAs), which, in turn, could regulate the expression of a host of genes involved with angiogenesis and extracellular matrix remodeling. The expression of miRNA and mRNA in the same aortic specimens in 1-day-old (P1) and 12-mo-old offspring aortas of dams, which had 50% food restriction from gestation day 10 to term, was determined by specific rat miRNA and DNA arrays. MUN significantly downregulated the expression of miRNAs 29c, 183, and 422b in the P1 group and 200a, 129, 215, and 200b in the 12-mo group, and upregulated the expression of miRNA 189 in the P1 group and 337 in the 12-mo group. The predicted target genes of the miRNAs altered in the two age groups fell into the categories of: 1) structural genes, such as collagen, elastin, and enzymes involved in ECM remodeling; and 2) angiogenic factors. MUN primarily altered the expression of mRNAs in the functional category of cell cycle/mitosis in the P1 group and anatomic structure and apoptosis in the 12-mo age group. Several of the predicted target genes of miRNAs altered in response to MUN were identified by the DNA array including integrin-β1 in the P1 aortas and stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 in the 12-mo age groups. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that MUN modulation of offspring gene expression may be mediated in part by a miRNA mechanism.
Maternal protein restriction leads to hyperresponsiveness to stress and salt-sensitive hypertension in male offspring
Authors: Augustyniak Robert A. , Singh Karan , Zeldes Daniel , Singh Melissa , Rossi Noreen F.
Published: March 2010

Low birth weight humans often exhibit hypertension during adulthood. Studying the offspring of rat dams fed a maternal low-protein diet is one model frequently used to study the mechanisms of low birth weight-related hypertension. It remains unclear whether this model replicates key clinical findings of hypertension and increased blood pressure responsiveness to stress or high-salt diet. We measured blood pressure via radiotelemetry in 13-wk-old male offspring of maternal normal- and low-protein dams. Neither group exhibited hypertension at baseline; however, 1 h of restraint was accompanied by a significantly greater blood pressure response in low-protein compared with normal-protein offspring. To enhance the effect of a high-salt diet on blood pressure, normal- and low-protein offspring underwent right uninephrectomy, while controls underwent sham surgery. After 5 weeks on a high-salt diet (4% NaCl), mean arterial pressure in the Low-Protein+Sham offspring was elevated by 6 ± 2 mmHg ( P < 0.05 vs. baseline), while it remained unchanged in the normal-protein offspring. In the two uninephrectomized groups, blood pressure increased further, but was of similar magnitude. Glomerular filtration rate in the low-protein uninephrectomized offspring was 50% less than that in normal-protein offspring with intact kidneys. These data indicate that, while male low-protein offspring are not hypertensive during young adulthood, their blood pressure is hyperresponsive to restraint stress and is salt sensitive, and their glomerular filtration rate is more sensitive to hypertension-causing insults. Collectively, these may predispose for the development of hypertension later in life.
Metabolomic study of the LDL receptor null mouse fed a high-fat diet reveals profound perturbations in choline metabolism that are shared with ApoE null mice
Authors: Cheng Kian-Kai , Benson G. Martin , Grimsditch David C. , Reid David G. , Connor Susan C. , Griffin Julian L.
Published: March 2010

Failure to express or expression of dysfunctional low-density lipoprotein receptors (LDLR) causes familial hypercholesterolemia in humans, a disease characterized by elevated blood cholesterol concentrations, xanthomas, and coronary heart disease, providing compelling evidence that high blood cholesterol concentrations cause atherosclerosis. In this study, we used 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to examine the metabolic profiles of plasma and urine from the LDLR knockout mice. Consistent with previous studies, these mice developed hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis when fed a high-fat/cholesterol/cholate-containing diet. In addition, multivariate statistical analysis of the metabolomic data highlighted significant differences in tricarboxylic acid cycle and fatty acid metabolism, as a result of high-fat/cholesterol diet feeding. Our metabolomic study also demonstrates that the effect of high-fat/cholesterol/cholate diet, LDLR gene deficiency, and the diet-genotype interaction caused a significant perturbation in choline metabolism, notably the choline oxidation pathway. Specifically, the loss in the LDLR caused a marked reduction in the urinary excretion of betaine and dimethylglycine, especially when the mice are fed a high-fat/cholesterol/cholate diet. Furthermore, as we demonstrate that these metabolic changes are comparable with those detected in ApoE knockout mice fed the same high-fat/cholesterol/cholate diet they may be useful for monitoring the onset of atherosclerosis across animal models.
Modeling and Performance Analyses of Hybrid Cellular and Broadcasting Networks
Authors: Unger Peter , Kürner Thomas
Published: March 2010

Mobile communication services are getting more and more important and, in particular, multimedia services have attracted the interest of the users. Mobile TV is one of the most demanded candidates. Powerful and efficient communication systems are needed, which provide high capacities, especially at the downlink. Furthermore, interactivity is essential for supporting the user needs and to extend the service offering. As one possible solution to meet the mentioned requirements, we consider the combination of the cellular network UMTS and the mobile broadcast network DVB-H, which form a hybrid network. We investigate the performance of hybrid networks and develop a system model, which describes the hybrid network and the load switching between both networks. One of the contributions is the definition of the switching bound concept, which represents an efficient tool to assess the necessity and the feasibility of hybrid networks and the amount of load switching. The performance indicators cell load and grade of service are analyzed by using theoretical and realistic scenarios.
Evaluation of Pigeon Pea Lines for Biological Soil Decompaction
Authors: Godoy Rodolfo , Bacchi Osny Oliveira Santos , Moreira Fernando Almeida , Reichardt Klaus
Published: March 2010

Soil decompaction is generally achieved through mechanical cultivation practices; however biological processes can significantly add to this process through root growth, development, and later senescence. This study was carried out in Piracicaba, SP, Brazil and had the purpose of selecting, among forty one pure pigeon pea lines, the most efficient genotypes that promote soil decompaction by roots penetrating compacted soil layers. Utilizing artificially compacted 30 mm high soil blocks, in a series of experiments, these lines were compared to the cultivar Fava Larga taken as a standard. Three lines were preliminarily selected out of the initial group, and afterwards, in more detailed screenings by monitoring soil resistance to penetration and also evaluating the behavior of Tanzania grass plants seeded after pigeon pea, two of them, g5-94 and g8-95, were selected as possessing the most fit root system to penetrate compacted soil layers.
Well-Differentiated Extraskeletal Osteosarcoma Arising from the Retroperitoneum That Recurred as Anaplastic Spindle Cell Sarcoma
Authors: Arai Hiromasa , Rino Yasushi , Nishii Teppei , Yukawa Norio , Wada Nobuyuki , Oshiro Hisashi , Ishida Tsuyoshi , Nakaigawa Noboru , Masuda Munetaka
Published: March 2010

Extraskeletal osteosarcoma is an uncommon high-grade malignant soft tissue sarcoma. Well-differentiated extraskeletal osteosarcoma is thought to have a better prognosis than classical extraskeletal osteosarcoma, but dedifferentiation after recurrence has also been reported. We present a case of a primary retroperitoneal extraskeletal osteosarcoma in a 62-year-old Japanese woman. Abdominal CT revealed a large mass with diffuse calcification in the right retroperitoneal space and tumor resection was performed. The histopathological diagnosis was well-differentiated retroperitoneal extraskeletal osteosarcoma. She was followed up by CT every 6 months without adjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy for 31 months until anaplastic high-grade spindle cell sarcoma recurred in the retroperitoneum. Our case is the seventh reported description of well-differentiated extraskeletal sarcoma, and the first to arise in the retroperitoneum and recur as an entirely dedifferentiated spindle cell sarcoma.
Successful Peripheral Blood Stem Cells Collection in Imatinib Pretreated and Nilotinib-Treated Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Patient
Authors: Vokurka Samuel , Koza Vladimir , Lysak Daniel , Karas Michal , Dvorak Pavel , Jindra Pavel , Hrabetova Marcela , Vozobulova Vera
Published: March 2010

We report a case of a successful mobilization and harvest of the peripheral blood stem cells (PBSCs) in imatinib-pretreated and nilotinib treated 52-year-old woman diagnosed with Philadelphia chromosome-positive and BCR-ABL (b2a2) positive chronic phase CML in 2/2002. She failed interferon-alfa and imatinib treatment. She achieved her first complete molecular remission after 16 months of nilotinib treatment and later on was mobilized with filgrastim at a dose of 10 ug/kg/day applied subcutaneously once daily. The total number of2.98×106CD34+ cells/kg was harvested on the fourth day of the mobilization. The autologous graft of the stem cells was cryopreserved and tested for the residual disease: the FISH revealed negative results and the RT-PCR was positive (BCR-ABL/ABL ratio 0,0017 in RQ-PCR). To our knowledge, this is the first report of successful PBSC harvest in a patient significantly pretreated with imatinib and nilotinib.
Surgical Incision Induces Anxiety-Like Behavior and Amygdala Sensitization: Effects of Morphine and Gabapentin
Authors: Li Chang-Qi , Zhang Jian-Wei , Dai Ru-Ping , Wang Juan , Luo Xue-Gang , Zhou Xin-Fu
Published: March 2010

The role of affective dimension in the postoperative pain is still poorly understood. The present study investigated the development of anxiety-like behavior and amygdala sensitization in incisional pain. Using hind-paw incision model in rats, we showed that surgical incision induced the anxiety-like behavior as determined by elevated plus-maze and open-field tests. Intraperitoneal (IP) morphine administration reversed mechanical allodynia and anxiety-like behavior in a dose-dependent manner. Gabapentin also partially reduced incision-evoked mechanical allodynia and anxiety-like behavior in a dose-dependent manner. After incision, the expression of phosphorylated cAMP response elements (CRE-) binding protein (p-CREB) was transiently upregulated in the central and basolateral nuclei in the bilateral amygdala. The upregulation of p-CREB was inhibited by morphine and gabapentin. The present study suggested that surgical incision could induce anxiety and amygdala sensitization that can be inhibited by morphine and gabapentin. Thus treatment of surgery-induced affective disturbances by morphine and gabapentin may be a potential important adjunct therapy in the postoperative pain management.
Temozolomide-Induced Myelodysplasia
Authors: Natelson Ethan A. , Pyatt David
Published: March 2010

A patient who had received temozolomide (TMZ) as a single agent in treatment of malignant glioma developed therapy-induced myelodysplasia (T-MDS). TMZ is an orally active imidazotetrazine which methylates guanine residues in DNA, ultimately causing single and double-strand DNA breaks leading to apoptotic cell death. TMZ does not chemically cross-link DNA and is considered a nonclassical alkylating agent, similar in structure and activity to dacarbazine. Observations on this patient, and on similarly treated others, suggest that the cumulative dose threshold (CDT) for TMZ that predisposes to T-MDS and which may potentially lead to acute myeloid leukemia (T-AML) is around 18000 to 20000 mg/sq m. Although the incidence of T-MDS and the predisposing CDT of TMZ may differ from that of other potentially leukemogenic compounds currently and formerly used as chemotherapeutic agents, all alkylating agents, including TMZ, should be considered potentially leukemogenic when administered long term.
Extraosseous Osteosarcoma of the Esophagus: A Case Report
Authors: Wegner Rodney E. , McGrath Kevin M. , Luketich James D. , Friedland David M.
Published: March 2010

Extraosseous osteosarcoma (EOO) is a malignant mesenchymal neoplasm that is located in the soft tissues without direct attachment to the skeletal system and that produces osteoid, bone, or chondroid material. EOO is an extremely rare disease, accounting for only 1% of soft tissue sarcomas, and typically presents in either an extremity or the retroperitoneum. This paper presents the case of a 45-year-old Caucasian male with extraosseous osteosarcoma of the esophagus.
Inflammation and Hypersensitivity in the Context of the Sensory Functions of Axonal Membranes: What Are the Molecular Mechanisms?
Authors: Sauer Susanne K. , Reeh Peter W.
Published: March 2010

Background: The axonal membrane of unmyelinated sensory nerve fibers is well equipped with different molecular transducer molecules that establish specific sensitivities, the capacity for sensitization by inflammation and generation of ectopic action potentials that contribute to spinal sensitization, leading to projected pain, allodynia and hyperalgesia. Methods: We studied the sensory properties of unmyelinated axons in the midnerve by measuring stimulated neuropeptide release, recording from primary afferents and eliciting projected pain by stimulation of a surgically exposed superficial radial nerve in a conscious human subject. Results: Capsaicin (TRPV1) receptor channels are expressed along the axonal membrane and respond to acidic, thermal and capsaicin stimulation with a graded and calcium-dependent calcitonin gene-related peptide release. These responses can be facilitated by bradykinin or prostaglandin, indicating functional BK and EP receptors along the axonal membrane. Sensitizing effects are lost in preparations from TRPV1 knockout mice. In the isolated vagus nerve, representing visceral innervation, the endovanilloid/endocannabinoid anandamide induced or sensitized calcitonin gene-related peptide release by activation of TRPV1. Our electrophysiological recordings revealed ectopic generation of action potentials. Intact unmyelinated axons showed sensory capacities that resembled those of their individual cutaneous nociceptive terminals, with respect to noxious heat sensitivity. In the human subject, noxious heat stimulation of the exposed skin nerve evoked intense burning pain sensation in the innervation territory. Conclusion: Different lines of evidence indicate that nociceptive axons exhibit essential parts of the signal transduction and spike generation machinery. When amplified (e.g. by inflammatory mediators), this axonal sensitivity may become a source of neuropathic pain.
Pharmacology of Inflammatory Pain: Local Alteration in Receptors and Mediators
Authors: Holzer Peter , Holzer-Petsche Ulrike
Published: March 2010

Background: Inflammation is commonly associated with hyperalgesia. Ideally, this change should abate once inflammation is resolved, but this is not necessarily the case because phenotypic changes in the tissue can persist, as appears to be the case in post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome. Basically, all primary afferent neurons supplying the gut can be sensitized in response to pro-inflammatory mediators, and the mechanisms whereby hypersensitivity is initiated and maintained are, thus, of prime therapeutic interest. Experimental and Clinical Findings: There is a multitude of molecular nocisensors that can be responsible for the hypersensitivity of afferent neurons. These entities include: (i) receptors and sensors at the peripheral terminals of afferent neurons that are relevant to stimulus transduction, (ii) ion channels that govern the excitability and conduction properties of afferent neurons, and (iii) transmitters and transmitter receptors that mediate communication between primary afferents and second-order neurons in the spinal cord and brainstem. Persistent increases in the sensory gain may result from changes in the expression of transmitters, receptors or ion channels; changes in the subunit composition and biophysical properties of receptors and ion channels; or changes in the structure, connectivity and survival of afferent neurons. Particular therapeutic potential is attributed to targets that are selectively expressed by afferent neurons and whose number and function are altered in abdominal hypersensitivity. Conclusion: Emerging targets of therapeutic relevance include distinct members of the transient receptor potential (TRP) channel family (TRPV1, TRPV4, TRPA1), acid-sensing ion channels, protease-activated receptors, corticotropin-releasing factor receptors and sensory neuron-specific sodium channels.
Pharmacology of Visceral Pain: Central Factors
Authors: Aziz Q. , Botha C. , Willert R.
Published: March 2010

Clinically, pain can be sub-classified into superficial, neuropathic and deep pain. Deep pain as a result of stimulation to structures such as the viscera is the most poorly understood and notoriously difficult to treat. The dorsal horn of the spinal cord is the gateway to conscious nociception and it is at this point in the pain processing pathway that the peripheral afferent input can be enhanced or inhibited by several mechanisms, the most important being central sensitisation. Long-term potentiation, another mechanism, can also be elicited in the spinal cord. Here nociceptor activity and/or peripheral tissue inflammation produces long-term changes in synaptic efficacy in the dorsal horns. This plays a major role in the generation of acute post-operative and post-traumatic pain, migraine and neuropathic pain. Behavioural consequences of central sensitisation can even be readily detected in human psychophysical experiments. Another importantmechanism is ‘wind-up’, a form of homosynaptic activity-dependent plasticity characterised by a progressive increase in action potential output from dorsal horn neurones. There is an extensive body of literature which has highlighted the importance of central sensitisation. This review examines some of the most significant recent findings with regards to future pharmacology. As we are beginning to understand some of the mechanisms of central sensitisation and its importance in visceral pain, novel receptor sites have been identified, offering exciting possibilities with regards to future pharmacological development not only to visceral pain, but for pain management as a whole.
Does Stress Influence Inflammatory Bowel Disease? The Clinical Data
Authors: Rampton David
Published: March 2010

There is increasing evidence that psychological stress and associated mood disorders are linked with, and can adversely affect the course of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Of 11 longitudinal studies of the effects of stress or depression on the course of IBD, most suggested that stress worsened IBD, the rest giving either negative or inconclusive results. If stress does have an adverse effect on the natural history of IBD, then measures which reduce stress should help symptoms and activity of IBD. Unfortunately, because of methodological difficulties inherent in undertaking appropriately targeted and blinded trials, good data about the effects on IBD of interventions aimed to ameliorate stress and mood disorders are limited. Emerging trial evidence supports the suggestion that psychologically orientated therapy may ameliorate IBD-associated mood disorders, but there is no strong data yet to indicate that stress management has a beneficial effect on the activity or course of IBD. More rigorous assessments are needed of the relation between psychological state and activity of IBD, and of the potential benefits of stress-reducing measures in IBD.
The Role of Pathogenic Microbes and Commensal Bacteria in Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Collins Stephen , Verdu Elena , Denou Emmanuel , Bercik Premsyl
Published: March 2010

Background: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) reflects several pathogenetic entities including a subgroup with low-grade colonic inflammation. We propose that pathogenic bacteria act as triggers and that disturbances of commensal bacteria maintain low-grade inflammation, that in turn leads to dysfunction in the gut or brain. Methods: Studies were performed in mice under specific pathogen-free conditions. Visceral pain was assessed by the visceromotor response and motility was assessed by in vivo fluoroscopy and in vitro by muscle contractility. Brain chemistry was assessed by in situ hybridization and behavior by standard tests. The microbiota was monitored using 16s-based RT-PCR and DGGE. Results: Mice transiently infected with the nematode Trichinella spiralis exhibited changes in motility and in visceral perception that persisted for up to 6 weeks post-infection. This was accompanied by alterations in the microbiota and an upregulation of cyclooxygenase-2 which could be reversed by treatment with anti-inflammatory agents or selected probiotics. To investigate the contribution of the microbiota, we treated mice with oral antibiotics and monitored visceral perception and behavior. Antibiotic therapy produced substantial changes in the microbiota, a small increment in inflammatory activity and an increase in substance P or pain perception. Oral, but not systemic antibiotic treatment, produced changes in brain chemistry and an increase in anxiety-like behavior. Conclusion: These studies provide proof of concept that pathogenic microbes can induce persistent gut dysfunction and that changes in microbial composition of the gut can maintain gut dysfunction as well as induce behavioral changes reminiscent of the psychiatric comorbidity that occurs in up to 60% of irritable bowel syndrome patients.
Bacterial Flora in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Marteau Philippe
Published: March 2010

The pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) involves an interaction between host susceptibility (which is partly genetically determined), mucosal immunity and the intestinal milieu. Micro-organisms have physiological effects on mucosal structure, epithelial turnover, the intestinal immune cells and, thus, on many intestinal functions. Toll-like receptors and nucleotide oligomerisation-binding domain proteins in host cells recognise specific bacterial molecules and modify the immune response. Human studies have repeatedly shown that the microbiota of patients with IBD differs from that of controls and is unstable, both in the intestinal lumen and at the surface of the mucosa. A single pathogen has not been identified, but potentially pro-inflammatory micro-organisms have been found in samples from IBD patients more often than from healthy controls. These include Mycobacterium paratuberculosis, and enteroadherent and invasive Escherichia coli in Crohn’s disease (CD). Ecological descriptions of the microbiota present in patients with IBD (either in the faeces or adherent to the mucosa) have repeatedly reported a decrease in usually dominant bacteria, especially those from the dominant phylum Firmicutes. A decrease in the biodiversity of Firmicutes has been observed in CD, while a recent study has shown that a decrease in Firmicutes, especially Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, was associated with CD and the post-operative recurrence of CD lesions in the ileum. Taken together, these results suggest that dysbiosis, or an imbalance within the (dominant) intestinal microbiota, may favour IBD.