bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Description of Sphingosinicella xenopeptidilytica sp. nov., a β-peptide-degrading species, and emended descriptions of the genus Sphingosinicella and the species Sphingosinicella microcystinivorans
Authors: Geueke Birgit , Busse Hans-Jürgen , Fleischmann Thomas , Kämpfer Peter , Kohler Hans-Peter E.
Published: January 2007

A Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium, strain 3-2W4T, was isolated from the aeration tank of a wastewater treatment plant in Zurich and was found to have the exceptional capacity to degrade syntheticβ-peptides. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis showed that strain 3-2W4Tis closely related toSphingosinicella microcystinivoransY2T, but DNA–DNA hybridization experiments between these two strains revealed that they belong to two different species. The two strains displayed different fingerprints after PCR analysis using the repetitive primers BOX, ERIC and REP. Strain 3-2W4Tdid not degrade microcystin, which is a characteristic trait ofSphingosinicella microcystinivoransY2T. LikeSphingosinicella microcystinivoransY2T, strain 3-2W4Thad the following characteristics: fatty acids comprising mainly C18 : 1ω7c, summed feature 3 (C16 : 1ω7cand/or iso-C15 : 02-OH) and C16 : 0, the presence of ubiquinone Q-10 andsym-homospermidine as the predominant polyamine compound. The polar lipid profiles of the two strains were almost identical, consisting of phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylmonomethylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol and sphingoglycolipid. Strain 3-2W4TandSphingosinicella microcystinivoransY2Tutilized theβ-peptides H-βhVal-βhAla-βhLeu-OH and H-βhAla-βhLeu-OH as sole carbon and energy sources and sharedβ-peptidyl aminopeptidase activity in common, which distinguishes them fromSphingomonasandSphingopyxistype strains. On the basis of these results, strain 3-2W4Trepresents a novel species of the genusSphingosinicella, for which the nameSphingosinicella xenopeptidilyticasp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is 3-2W4T(=DSM 17130T=CCUG 52537T). The descriptions of the genusSphingosinicellaand the speciesSphingosinicella microcystinivoransare emended.
Paenibacillus sabinae sp. nov., a nitrogen-fixing species isolated from the rhizosphere soils of shrubs
Authors: Ma Yuchao , Xia Zhiqiang , Liu Xuming , Chen Sanfeng
Published: January 2007

Five novel endospore-forming, nitrogen-fixing bacterial strains were isolated from the rhizosphere soils of plants of the speciesSabina squamata,Weigela floridaandZanthoxylum simulans. A phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that the five strains formed a distinct cluster within the genusPaenibacillus. These novel strains showed the highest levels (96.2–98.2 %) of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity withPaenibacillus azotofixans. However, the DNA–DNA relatedness between these novel strains andP. azotofixanswas 12.9–29.5 %. The DNA G+C contents of the five strains were found to be 51.9–52.9 mol%. Phenotypic analyses showed that a significant feature of the novel strains (differentiating them fromP. azotofixansand otherPaenibacillusspecies) is that all of them were unable to produce acid and gas from various carbohydrates such as glucose, sucrose, lactose and fructose. Anteiso-branched C15 : 0was the major fatty acid present in the novel type strain. On the basis of these data, the five novel strains represent a novel species of the genusPaenibacillus, for which the namePaenibacillus sabinaesp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is T27T(=CCBAU 10202T=DSM 17841T).
Demequina aestuarii gen. nov., sp. nov., a novel actinomycete of the suborder Micrococcineae, and reclassification of Cellulomonas fermentans Bagnara et al. 1985 as Actinotalea fermentans gen. nov., comb. nov.
Authors: Yi Hana , Schumann Peter , Chun Jongsik
Published: January 2007

An actinobacterial strain containing demethylmenaquinone DMK-9(H4) as the diagnostic isoprenoid quinone was isolated from a tidal flat sediment sample, from South Korea. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that strain JC2054Trepresents a distinct phyletic line within the suborderMicrococcineaeof the orderActinomycetales. The closest phylogenetic neighbour wasCellulomonas fermentans, with 94.7 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity. The novel isolate was strictly aerobic and slightly halophilic, with optimum growth occurring in 2–4 % (w/v) NaCl. Cells were non-motile, non-sporulating and rod-shaped. The peptidoglycan type was of the A-type of cross-linkage.l-ornithine was the diamino acid andd-glutamate represented the N-terminus of the interpeptide bridge. The predominant fatty acids were anteiso-branched and straight-chain fatty acids. The major polar lipids were phosphatidylinositol, diphosphatidylglycerol and an unknown phospholipid. The menaquinone composition ofC. fermentanswas determined to be MK-10(H4), MK-9(H4) and MK-8(H4) in the ratio 56 : 2 : 1. On the basis of the polyphasic evidence presented in this study, it is proposed that strain JC2054Tshould be classified as representing a novel genus and species of the suborderMicrococcineae, with the nameDemequina aestuariigen. nov., sp. nov. The type strain is JC2054T(=IMSNU 14027T=KCTC 9919T=JCM 12123T). In addition, it was clear from the phylogenetic analysis and chemotaxonomic data thatC. fermentansdoes not belong to the genusCellulomonasor any other recognized genera. Therefore,C. fermentansshould be reclassified as representing a novel genus, for which the nameActinotalea fermentansgen. nov., comb. nov. is proposed, with strain DSM 3133T(=ATCC 43279T=CFBP 4259T=CIP 103003T=NBRC 15517T=JCM 9966T=LMG 16154T) as the type strain.
The pharmacokinetics, CNS pharmacodynamics and adverse event profile of brivaracetam after single increasing oral doses in healthy males
Authors: Sargentini‐Maier Maria Laura , Rolan Paul , Connell John , Tytgat Dominique , Jacobs Tom , Pigeolet Etienne , Riethuisen Jean‐Michel , Stockis Armel
Published: January 2007

What is already known about this subject

• Brivaracetam is a new chemical entity structurally related to levetiracetam, displaying a markedly higher affinity for the binding site believed to be primarily involved in the antiepileptic effect of levetiracetam.

• Studies to evaluate the pharmacological profile of brivaracetam demonstrate an approximately 10‐fold higher potency than levetiracetam as well as a higher efficacy in models of epilepsy.

• If translated into therapeutic effects in humans, this would mean a greater decrease in seizure frequency and a higher number of responders and seizure‐free patients in refractory epileptic patients as seen with levetiracetam.

What this study adds

• This article reports the results of the first in human study with brivaracetam. Its pharmacokinetics and adverse events profile after single administration are evaluated, together with the effect of food on the former.

Aims

The objective of the study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetics (and how they are affected by food), CNS pharmacodynamics and the adverse event profile of brivaracetam after single increasing doses.

Methods

Healthy males (n = 27, divided into three alternating panels of nine subjects) received two different single oral doses of brivaracetam (10–1400 mg) and one dose of placebo during three periods of a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study. The effect of food on its pharmacokinetics was assessed using a standard two‐way crossover design in a further eight subjects who received two single oral doses of brivaracetam (150 mg) in the fasting state and after a high fat meal.

Results

Adverse events, none of which were serious, were mostly CNS‐related and included somnolence, dizziness, and decreased attention, alertness, and motor control. Their incidence, severity and duration were dose‐related. The maximum tolerated dose was established to be 1000 mg. Severe somnolence lasting 1 day occurred in one subject following 1400 mg. Brivaracetam was rapidly absorbed under fasting conditions, with a median tmax of approximately 1 h. Cmax was dose‐proportional from 10 to1400 mg, whereas AUC deviated from dose linearity above 600 mg. A high‐fat meal had no effect on AUC (point estimate 0.99, 90%CI: 0.92–1.07) but delayed tmax (3 h) and decreased Cmax (point estimate 0.72, 90%CI: 0.66–0.79).

Conclusions

Brivaracetam was well tolerated after increasing single doses that represent up to several times the expected therapeutic dose. Brivaracetam was found to have desirable pharmacokinetic properties. The most common adverse events were somnolence and dizziness.
Variability in non‐nucleoside reverse transcriptase and protease inhibitors concentrations among HIV‐infected adults in routine clinical practice
Authors: Moltó José , Blanco Asunción , Miranda Cristina , Miranda José , Puig Jordi , Valle Marta , DelaVarga Meritxell , Fumaz Carmina R. , Barbanoj Manuel José , Clotet Bonaventura
Published: January 2007

Aims

The objective of this study was to assess interindividual variability in plasma trough concentrations of non‐nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTI) and protease inhibitors (PI) among HIV‐infected adults in an outpatient routine clinical practice setting.

Methods

The study included 117 patients who attended our clinic for routine outpatient blood tests and who were receiving antiretroviral therapy which included NNRTI or PI. Patients were not informed that drug concentrations were going to be assessed until blood sampling. The time of the last antiretroviral treatment intake and blood sampling were recorded. Drug concentrations were considered optimal if they were above the proposed minimum effective concentration. In addition, efavirenz, nevirapine and atazanavir concentrations were considered potentially toxic if they were higher than 4.0 mg l−1, 6.0 mg l−1, and 0.85 mg l−1, respectively.

Results

Overall, interindividual variability in NNRTI and PI plasma concentrations was approximately 50%, and only 68.4% of the patients had drug concentrations within the proposed therapeutic range. Inappropriate adherence only explained 35% of subtherapeutic drug concentrations.

Conclusion

Interindividual variability in trough concentrations of NNRTI and PI among HIV‐infected adults is large in routine clinical practice, with drug concentrations being outside the therapeutic window in a significant proportion of patients. Therapeutic drug monitoring may be useful to guide antiretroviral therapy in clinical practice.
Effects of clarithromycin and grapefruit juice on the pharmacokinetics of glibenclamide
Authors: Lilja Jari J. , Niemi Mikko , Fredrikson Hanna , Neuvonen Pertti J.
Published: January 2007

What is already known about this subject

• Severe hypoglycaemia has been reported after concomitant use of clarithromycin and glibenclamide.

• Glibenclamide is a substrate for the transporters P‐glycoprotein and OATP2B1.

• Clarithromycin inhibits P‐glycoprotein and grapefruit juice inhibits OATP2B1.

What this study adds

• Clarithromycin increases the plasma concentration of glibenclamide.

• A pharmacokinetic interaction may explain reported hypoglycaemia during simultaneous administration of clarithromycin and glibenclamide.

• Grapefruit juice has no effect on the pharmacokinetics of glibenclamide.

Aims

Case reports suggest that clarithromycin can increase the glucose‐lowering effect of glibenclamide which is metabolized mainly by CYP2C9 and is a substrate for P‐glycoprotein and OATP2B1. Our objective was to evaluate whether the P‐glycoprotein inhibitor, clarithromycin, increases and the putative OATP2B1 inhibitor, grapefruit juice, decreases plasma concentrations of glibenclamide.

Methods

In a randomized three‐phase crossover study, 12 subjects ingested 250 mg clarithromycin or placebo twice daily or 200 ml grapefruit juice three times daily for 2 days. On day 3, they ingested 0.875 mg glibenclamide with sugar water or grapefruit juice. Concentrations of glibenclamide and clarithromycin in plasma, glucose in blood, and excretion of hydroxyglibenclamide into urine were measured up to 12 h.

Results

Clarithromycin increased the peak concentration (Cmax) of glibenclamide to 1.25‐fold (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.12, 1.40; P < 0.01) and the area under the plasma concentration‐time curve to 1.35‐fold (95% CI 1.21, 1.50; P < 0.01) compared with the placebo phase. The time to Cmax, the half‐life of glibenclamide, and the amount of hydroxyglibenclamide excreted into urine remained unaltered. Grapefruit juice did not change the pharmacokinetics of glibenclamide. Clarithromycin concentrations implied a good compliance. Blood glucose did not deviate between the phases.

Conclusions

Clarithromycin increased plasma concentrations of glibenclamide, possibly by inhibiting P‐glycoprotein in the intestinal wall. Although not seen with the present study design, clarithromycin may enhance the effect of glibenclamide by increasing plasma glibenclamide concentrations, which warrants close monitoring of blood glucose during their co‐administration. Grapefruit juice had no effect on glibenclamide pharmacokinetics.
Detection and follow‐up of fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 expression on bone marrow and circulating plasma cells by flow cytometry in patients with t(4;14) multiple myeloma
Authors: Chandesris M. O. , Soulier J. , Labaume S. , Crinquette A. , Repellini L. , Chemin K. , Malphettes M. , Fieschi C. , Asli B. , Uzunhan Y. , Fermand J. P. , Bories J. C. , Arnulf B.
Published: January 2007

The t(4;14)(p16;q32) translocation, found in 15% of multiple myeloma (MM) cases, indicates a poor prognosis. Plasma cells (PC) with t(4;14) ectopically express the fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3) tyrosine kinase receptor, which has potential transforming activity and may represent a therapeutic target. To detect FGFR3 protein expression, bone marrow (BM) aspirate from 200 consecutive newly diagnosed (n = 116) or relapsing (n = 74) MM patients was studied by flow cytometry (FC) using anti‐CD138 and anti‐FGFR3 antibodies. FC data was compared to real time quantitative‐polymerase chain reaction (RQ‐PCR) of the IGH‐MMSET and FGFR3 transcripts. An IGH‐MMSET transcript was found in 24/200 patients (12%). In 20 of these, FC detected CD138+/FGFR3+ cells. No expression of FGFR3 was detected in the 4 FGFR3− cases by RQ‐PCR. FGFR3 was never expressed on PC without t(4;14). Circulating PC (CPC) were detected in patients with (11/11) and patients without (13/41) t(4;14). In 2/8 t(4;14) cases studied longitudinally, coexisting FGFR3+ and FGFR3− CPC were observed. Fluorescent in situ hybridisation (FISH) analysis of the FGFR3− subclones showed deletion of the der(14) in one patient. In conclusion, as a supplemental method to RQ‐PCR or FISH, FC analysis of FGFR3 expression is a reliable and routinely available method for the detection and management of new therapeutic approaches of t(4;14) MM.
Effect of oesophagitis on proximal extent of gastro‐oesophageal reflux
Authors: Emerenziani S. , Cicala M. , Zhang X. , Ribolsi M. , Caviglia R. , Guarino M. P. L. , Sifrim D.
Published: January 2007

Abstract  Proximal oesophageal acid reflux is increased in gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) patients with oesophageal and extra‐oesophageal symptoms, the latter particularly in presence of oesophagitis. This study was aimed to assess the proximal extent of reflux, both acid and weakly acidic, in GORD patients with and without oesophagitis and to characterize, using an animal model of GORD, the relationship between acute oesophagitis and proximal extent of reflux. Proximal extent of reflux was evaluated during 24‐h pH‐impedance monitoring in 17 oesophagitis, 27 non‐erosive reflux disease (NERD) patients and 10 asymptomatic controls. In five adult cats, reflux events were simulated by intra‐oesophageal retrograde injection of a radiopaque solution. Proximal extent of simulated reflux was fluoroscopically assessed before and after inducing acute oesophagitis. The percentage of proximal reflux was 11% in controls, 22% in NERD and 38% in oesophagitis patients (P < 0.05 vs NERD). Weakly acidic reflux showed higher proximal extent in oesophagitis than in NERD patients but it was less proximally propagated than acid reflux. In cats, proximal reflux was significantly increased during acute oesophagitis. Oesophagitis patients show higher proximal extent of reflux, acid and weakly acidic, when compared with NERD patients and controls. In the experimental model, acute oesophagitis favours proximal migration of simulated reflux.
The value of Good Manufacturing Practice to a Blood Service in managing the delivery of quality
Authors: Slopecki A. , Smith K. , Moore S.
Published: January 2007

The delivery of ‘quality’ in transfusion medicine is addressed by considering how safe and efficacious blood, blood components, reagents, and services can be provided through the application of an effective quality assurance management system. The creation of such a system in the UK is reviewed through the development of the UK Guide to Good Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Practice from 1971 to the present. It provides simple practical guidance and standards. The UK experience shows how quality assurance has evolved, it is not offered as a model to be followed. The UK approach merged with that of the European Union from the early 1990s. The use of such a quality management system to support the application of licensing and accreditation standards relevant to the work of a modern Blood Service is considered, as are processes to learn about the effective and efficacious use of blood and blood components.
The utility of magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy for predicting insignificant prostate cancer: an initial analysis
Authors: Shukla‐Dave Amita , Hricak Hedvig , Kattan Michael W. , Pucar Darko , Kuroiwa Kentaro , Chen Hui‐Ni , Spector Jessica , Koutcher Jason A. , Zakian Kristen L. , Scardino Peter T.
Published: January 2007

OBJECTIVE

To design new models that combine clinical variables and biopsy data with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and MR spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) data, and assess their value in predicting the probability of insignificant prostate cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 220 patients (cT stage T1c or T2a, prostate‐specific antigen level <20 ng/mL, biopsy Gleason score 6) had MRI/MRSI before surgery and met the inclusion criteria for the study. The probability of insignificant cancer was recorded retrospectively and separately for MRI and combined MRI/MRSI on a 0–3 scale (0, definitely insignificant; − 3, definitely significant). Insignificant cancer was defined from surgical pathology as organ‐confined cancer of ≤ 0.5 cm3 with no poorly differentiated elements. The accuracy of predicting insignificant prostate cancer was assessed using areas under receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs), for previously reported clinical models and for newly generated MR models combining clinical variables, and biopsy data with MRI data (MRI model) and MRI/MRSI data (MRI/MRSI model).

RESULTS

At pathology, 41% of patients had insignificant cancer; both MRI (AUC 0.803) and MRI/MRSI (AUC 0.854) models incorporating clinical, biopsy and MR data performed significantly better than the basic (AUC 0.574) and more comprehensive medium (AUC 0.726) clinical models. The P values for the differences between the models were: base vs medium model, <0.001; base vs MRI model, <0.001; base vs MRI/MRSI model, <0.001; medium vs MRI model, <0.018; medium vs MRI/MRSI model, <0.001.

CONCLUSIONS

The new MRI and MRI/MRSI models performed better than the clinical models for predicting the probability of insignificant prostate cancer. After appropriate validation, the new MRI and MRI/MRSI models might help in counselling patients who are considering choosing deferred therapy.
Approximation of the Distribution of the Location Parameter in the Growth Curve Model
Authors: KOLLO TÕNU , ROOS ANU , VON ROSEN DIETRICH
Published: January 2007

Abstract.  In this paper an Edgeworth‐type approximation of order O(n−2) to the density of the estimator of the location parameter in the growth curve model has been derived. The approximation is a mixture of a normal and a Kotz‐type distribution, thus being an elliptical distribution. A condition for unimodality of the mixture was found and marginal distribution of a subvector of the mixture distribution was derived. Finally, a small example was given to demonstrate an application of the approximation.
What can Statistics Contribute to a Causal Understanding?
Authors: AALEN ODD O. , FRIGESSI ARNOLDO
Published: January 2007

Abstract. We discuss the concept of causality in a broad manner. The traditional attitude in statistics has been to shy away from the causality concept. In recent years, however, a more proactive attitude to the causality concept has developed among statisticians. On the one hand, there is the school of counterfactual causality directed towards forming a better basis for clinical trials and epidemiology. On the other hand, there is the mechanistic view of causality. These developments are discussed and set into a larger context, where the often ignored role of time is emphasized. An extension of path analysis to stochastic processes is briefly presented. Causality is furthermore discussed in relation to genetic studies and to the emerging field of systems biology. Statisticians should also relate to the philosophical content of causality, especially that found in the foundations of physics.
Universally‐Convergent Squared‐Operator Iteration Methods for Solitary Waves in General Nonlinear Wave Equations
Authors: Yang Jianke , Lakoba Taras I.
Published: January 2007

Three new iteration methods, namely the squared‐operator method, the modified squared‐operator method, and the power‐conserving squared‐operator method, for solitary waves in general scalar and vector nonlinear wave equations are proposed. These methods are based on iterating new differential equations whose linearization operators are squares of those for the original equations, together with acceleration techniques. The first two methods keep the propagation constants fixed, while the third method keeps the powers (or other arbitrary functionals) of the solution fixed. It is proved that all these methods are guaranteed to converge to any solitary wave (either ground state or not) as long as the initial condition is sufficiently close to the corresponding exact solution, and the time step in the iteration schemes is below a certain threshold value. Furthermore, these schemes are fast‐converging, highly accurate, and easy to implement. If the solitary wave exists only at isolated propagation constant values, the corresponding squared‐operator methods are developed as well. These methods are applied to various solitary wave problems of physical interest, such as higher‐gap vortex solitons in the two‐dimensional nonlinear Schrödinger equations with periodic potentials, and isolated solitons in Ginzburg–Landau equations, and some new types of solitary wave solutions are obtained. It is also demonstrated that the modified squared‐operator method delivers the best performance among the methods proposed in this article.
Kgtests: a simple Excel Macro program to detect signatures of population expansion using microsatellites
Authors: BİLGİN RAİT
Published: January 2007

A simple Microsoft Excel Macro application (kgtests) that performs the k and g tests for detecting population expansion is described. The application, being an Excel Macro, facilitates the ease of preparation of the input file and makes it possible to use the application in any machine that can run Excel.
Microsatellite loci for the progenetic trematode, Coitocaecum parvum (Opecoelidae)
Authors: LAGRUE CLÉMENT , WATERS JONATHAN M. , POULIN ROBERT , KEENEY DEVON B.
Published: January 2007

Nine polymorphic microsatellite loci were characterized from the freshwater trematode Coitocaecum parvum. This parasite can either reproduce sexually in the definitive host or produce eggs by selfing inside its second intermediate host. Two to 11 alleles per locus were detected in 24 trematode sporocysts and observed heterozygosities ranged from 0.04 to 0.96. These loci will be useful for identifying parasite genetic clones within hosts and testing for effects of relatedness on parasite life history strategy.
Docosahexaenoic acid stabilizes soluble amyloid‐β protofibrils and sustains amyloid‐β‐induced neurotoxicity in vitro
Authors: Johansson Ann‐Sofi , Garlind Anita , Berglind‐Dehlin Fredrik , Karlsson Göran , Edwards Katarina , Gellerfors Pär , Ekholm‐Pettersson Frida , Palmblad Jan , Lannfelt Lars
Published: January 2007

Enrichment of diet and culture media with the polyunsaturated fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid has been found to reduce the amyloid burden in mice and lower amyloid‐β (Aβ) levels in both mice and cultured cells. However, the direct interaction of polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as docosahexaenoic acid, with Aβ, and their effect on Aβ aggregation has not been explored in detail. Therefore, we have investigated the effect of docosahexaenoic acid, arachidonic acid and the saturated fatty acid arachidic acid on monomer oligomerization into protofibrils and protofibril fibrillization into fibrils in vitro, using size exclusion chromatography. The polyunsaturated fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid and arachidonic acid at micellar concentrations stabilized soluble Aβ42 wild‐type protofibrils, thereby hindering their conversion to insoluble fibrils. As a consequence, docosahexaenoic acid sustained amyloid‐β‐induced toxicity in PC12 cells over time, whereas Aβ without docosahexaenoic acid stabilization resulted in reduced toxicity, as Aβ formed fibrils. Arachidic acid had no effect on Aβ aggregation, and neither of the fatty acids had any protofibril‐stabilizing effect on Aβ42 harboring the Arctic mutation (AβE22G). Consequently, AβArctic‐induced toxicity could not be sustained using docosahexaenoic acid. These results provide new insights into the toxicity of different Aβ aggregates and how endogenous lipids can affect Aβ aggregation.
Role of the store‐operated calcium entry proteins Stim1 and Orai1 in muscarinic cholinergic receptor‐stimulated calcium oscillations in human embryonic kidney cells
Authors: Wedel Barbara , Boyles Rebecca R. , Putney James W. , Bird Gary S.
Published: January 2007

We have investigated the nature of the Ca2+ entry supporting [Ca2+]i oscillations in human embryonic kidney (HEK293) cells by examining the roles of recently described store‐operated Ca2+ entry proteins, Stim1 and Orai1. Knockdown of Stim1 by RNA interference (RNAi) reduced the frequency of [Ca2+]i oscillations in response to a low concentration of methacholine to the level seen in the absence of external Ca2+. However, knockdown of Stim1 did not block oscillations in canomical transient receptor potential 3 channel (TRPC3)‐expressing cells and did not affect Ca2+ entry in response to arachidonic acid. The effects of knockdown of Stim1 could be reversed by inhibiting Ca2+ extrusion with a high concentration of Gd3+, or by rescuing the knockdown by overexpression of Stim1. Similarly, knockdown of Orai1 abrogated [Ca2+]i oscillations, and this was reversed by use of high concentrations of Gd3+; however, knockdown of Orai1 did not affect arachidonic acid‐activated entry. RNAi targeting 34 members of the transient receptor potential (TRP) channel superfamily did not reveal a role for any of these channel proteins in store‐operated Ca2+ entry in HEK293 cells. These findings indicate that the Ca2+ entry supporting [Ca2+]i oscillations in HEK293 cells depends upon the Ca2+ sensor, Stim1, and calcium release‐activated Ca2+ channel protein, Orai1, and provide further support for our conclusion that it is the store‐operated mechanism that plays the major role in this pathway.
A Large-Scale Deforestation Experiment: Effects of Patch Area and Isolation on Amazon Birds
Authors: Ferraz Gonçalo , Nichols James D. , Hines James E. , Stouffer Philip C. , Bierregaard Richard O. , Lovejoy Thomas E.
Published: January 2007

As compared with extensive contiguous areas, small isolated habitat patches lack many species. Some species disappear after isolation; others are rarely found in any small patch, regardless of isolation. We used a 13-year data set of bird captures from a large landscape-manipulation experiment in a Brazilian Amazon forest to model the extinction-colonization dynamics of 55 species and tested basic predictions of island biogeography and metapopulation theory. From our models, we derived two metrics of species vulnerability to changes in isolation and patch area. We found a strong effect of area and a variable effect of isolation on the predicted patch occupancy by birds.
Highly Siderophile Element Constraints on Accretion and Differentiation of the Earth-Moon System
Authors: Day James M. D. , Pearson D. Graham , Taylor Lawrence A.
Published: January 2007

A new combined rhenium-osmium– and platinum-group element data set for basalts from the Moon establishes that the basalts have uniformly low abundances of highly siderophile elements. The data set indicates a lunar mantle with long-term, chondritic, highly siderophile element ratios, but with absolute abundances that are over 20 times lower than those in Earth's mantle. The results are consistent with silicate-metal equilibrium during a giant impact and core formation in both bodies, followed by post–core-formation late accretion that replenished their mantles with highly siderophile elements. The lunar mantle experienced late accretion that was similar in composition to that of Earth but volumetrically less than (∼0.02% lunar mass) and terminated earlier than for Earth.
Haploid Females in the Parasitic Wasp
Nasonia vitripennis
Authors: Beukeboom Leo W. , Kamping Albert , Louter Marina , Pijnacker Laas P. , Katju Vaishali , Ferree Patrick M. , Werren John H.
Published: January 2007

The insect order of Hymenoptera (ants, bees, sawflies, and wasps) consists almost entirely of haplodiploid species. Under haplodiploidy, males develop from unfertilized eggs and are haploid, whereas females develop from fertilized eggs and are diploid. Although diploid males commonly occur, haploid females have never been reported. In analyzing the phenomenon of gynandromorphism in the parasitoid wasp Nasonia vitripennis, we found a line that generates complete phenotypic females from unfertilized eggs. These females have ovaries, can lay eggs, and are haploid, as shown by cytological and flow cytometric analyses. The data show that diploidy is not necessary for female development.
Floral Gigantism in Rafflesiaceae
Authors: Davis Charles C. , Latvis Maribeth , Nickrent Daniel L. , Wurdack Kenneth J. , Baum David A.
Published: January 2007

Species of Rafflesiaceae possess the world's largest flowers (up to 1 meter in diameter), yet their precise evolutionary relationships have been elusive, hindering our understanding of the evolution of their extraordinary reproductive morphology. We present results of phylogenetic analyses of mitochondrial, nuclear, and plastid data showing that Rafflesiaceae are derived from within Euphorbiaceae, the spurge family. Most euphorbs produce minute flowers, suggesting that the enormous flowers of Rafflesiaceae evolved from ancestors with tiny flowers. Given the inferred phylogeny, we estimate that there was a circa 79-fold increase in flower diameter on the stem lineage of Rafflesiaceae, making this one of the most dramatic cases of size evolution reported for eukaryotes.
Ex Situ NMR in Highly Homogeneous Fields:
1
H Spectroscopy
Authors: Perlo Juan , Casanova Federico , Blümich Bernhard
Published: January 2007

Portable single-sided nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) magnets used for nondestructive studies of large samples are believed to generate inherently inhomogeneous magnetic fields. We demonstrated experimentally that the field of an open magnet can be shimmed to high homogeneity in a large volume external to the sensor. This technique allowed us to measure localized high-resolution proton spectra outside a portable open magnet with a spectral resolution of 0.25 part per million. The generation of these experimental conditions also simplifies the implementation of such powerful methodologies as multidimensional NMR spectroscopy and imaging.
Scientia Sinesis
Authors: Mullaney Thomas S.
Published: January 2007

A Cultural History of Modern Science in China
.
By Benjamin A. Elman
. Harvard University Press, Cambridge, MA, 2006. 324 pp. $35, £22.95, €32.30. ISBN 9780674023062.

The author presents the story of the emergence of modern science in China for a broad, nonspecialist audience.
Comparison of a SYBR Green I-Based Assay with a Histidine-Rich Protein II Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay for In Vitro Antimalarial Drug Efficacy Testing and Application to Clinical Isolates
Authors: Bacon David J. , Latour Christine , Lucas Carmen , Colina Olga , Ringwald Pascal , Picot Stéphane
Published: January 2007

In vitro drug susceptibility testing with the malaria parasite has been used to assess the antimalarial activities of new compounds and to monitor drug resistance in field isolates. We investigated the validity of a SYBR green I fluorescent-based assay under various culture conditions and compared the assay results to those of previously published histidine-rich protein II (HRPII) enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) methods. Reference strains of
Plasmodium falciparum
were cultured in vitro by using standard conditions in complete medium with and without phenol red before they were dispensed into 96-well plates predosed with chloroquine, mefloquine, or quinine. Following incubation, the culture supernatants were divided and the 50% inhibitory concentrations (IC
50
s) were determined by using a SYBR green I-based method and the HRPII capture ELISA method. There were no significant differences in IC
50
values when phenol red was included in the medium. The IC
50
s and the IC
90
s of the antimalarials tested by both methods were similar or identical for each of the reference strains. Fresh clinical isolates of
P. falciparum
collected from imported cases of malaria in Lyon, France, were tested for in vitro resistance to chloroquine and mefloquine by using the validated SYBR green I and HRPII ELISA methods. The SYBR green I-based method was able to calculate IC
50
and IC
90
values similar or identical to those calculated by the HRPII assay with fresh clinical samples without removal of white blood cells. The SYBR green I-based method for determination of drug sensitivity levels produced results comparable to those produced by other methods, showing that this method can be used routinely to conduct surveillance for drug resistance in
P. falciparum
with fresh or cultured parasites.
Mutagenesis and Repair in
Bacillus anthracis
: the Effect of Mutators
Authors: Zeibell Krystle , Aguila Sharon , Yan Shi Vivian , Chan Andrea , Yang Hanjing , Miller Jeffrey H.
Published: January 2007

We have generated mutator strains of
Bacillus anthracis
Sterne by using directed gene knockouts to investigate the effect of deleting genes involved in mismatch repair, oxidative repair, and maintaining triphosphate pools. The single-knockout strains are deleted for
mutS
,
mutY
,
mutM
, or
ndk
. We also made double-knockout strains that are
mutS ndk
or
mutY mutM
. We have measured the levels of mutations in the
rpoB
gene that lead to the Rif
r
phenotype and have examined the mutational specificity. In addition, we examined the mutational specificity of two mutagens, 5-azacytidine and
N
-methyl-
N
′-nitro-
N
-nitroso-guanidine. The
mutY
and
mutM
single knockouts are weak mutators by themselves, but the combination of
mutY mutM
results in very high mutation rates, all due to G:C → T:A transversions. The situation parallels that seen in
Escherichia coli
. Also,
mutS
knockouts are strong mutators and even stronger in the presence of a deletion of
ndk
. The number of sites in
rpoB
that can result in the Rif
r
phenotype by single-base substitution is more limited than in certain other bacteria, such as
E. coli
and
Deinococcus radiodurans
, although the average mutation rate per mutational site is roughly comparable. Hotspots at sites with virtually identical surrounding sequences are organism specific.
ON THE QUANTUM ANALOGUE OF THE BRST ALGEBRA
Authors: BENTALHA Z. , TAHIRI M.
Published: January 2007

Using the generalized graded differential algebra of Doebner–Tahiri and the left covariant differential calculus on su q(2) of Woronowicz, we could determine explicitly the quantum fields and their quantum BRST transformations. We have also derived the covariant derivative of the matter fields and the q-Bianchi identities.
LATE TIME FAILURE OF FRIEDMANN EQUATION
Authors: NOTARI ALESSIO
Published: January 2007

It is widely believed that the assumption of homogeneity is a good zeroth order approximation for the expansion of our Universe. We analyze the correction due to subhorizon inhomogeneous gravitational fields. While at early times this contribution (which may act as a negative pressure component) is perturbatively subdominant, we show that the perturbative series is likely to diverge at redshift of order 1, due to the growth of perturbations. So, the homogeneous Friedmann equation cannot be trusted at late times. We suggest that the puzzling observations of a present acceleration of the Universe, may just be due to the unjustified use of the Friedmann equation and not to the presence of a Dark Energy component. This would completely solve the coincidence problem.
REFINEMENTS IN EFFECTIVE POTENTIAL CALCULATIONS IN THE MSSM
Authors: ARGYROU M. , KATSIKATSOU A. , MALAMOS I.
Published: January 2007

The one-loop effective potential is a powerful tool in studying the electroweak symmetry breaking of supersymmetric theories, whose precise calculation may have important phenomenological consequences. In this work, we are correctly treating the contribution of the Higgs sector to the effective potential and refine the radiative corrections to the Higgs mixing parameter μ, which is known to affect greatly the supersymmetric spectrum. Working at the average stop scale to minimize the effect of the stop sector, we find additional corrections which can play a dominant role in the focus point region of the parameter space of the MSSM. The comparison of our results with those of the literature is discussed. We also discuss the gauge dependence of the effective potential and its effect on the μ parameter in analyses where this is determined from the one-loop minimization conditions of the effective potential.
CONSTRAINTS ON HOLOGRAPHIC DARK ENERGY MODELS USING THE DIFFERENTIAL AGES OF PASSIVELY EVOLVING GALAXIES
Authors: YI ZE-LONG , ZHANG TONG-JIE
Published: January 2007

Using the absolute ages of passively evolving galaxies observed at different redshifts, one can obtain the differential ages, the derivative of redshift z with respect to the cosmic time t (i.e. dz/dt). Thus, the Hubble parameter H(z) can be measured through the relation H(z) = -(dz/dt)/(1+z). By comparing the measured Hubble parameter at different redshifts with the theoretical one containing free cosmological parameters, one can constrain current cosmological models. In this paper, we use this method to present the constraint on a spatially flat Friedman–Robert–Walker universe with a matter component and a holographic dark energy component, in which the parameter c plays a significant role in this dark energy model. Firstly we consider three fixed values of c = 0.6, 1.0 and 1.4 in the fitting of data. If we set c free, the best fitting values are c = 0.26, Ωm0 = 0.16, h = 0.9998. It is shown that the holographic dark energy behaves like a quintom-type at the 1σ level. This result is consistent with some other independent cosmological constrains, which imply that c < 1.0 is favored. We also test the results derived from the differential ages using another independent method based on the lookback time to galaxy clusters and the age of the universe. It shows that our results are reliable.
TWO-DIMENSIONAL METRIC AND TETRAD GRAVITIES AS CONSTRAINED SECOND-ORDER SYSTEMS
Authors: GHALATI R. N. , KIRIUSHCHEVA N. , KUZMIN S. V.
Published: January 2007

Using the Gitman–Lyakhovich–Tyutin generalization of the Ostrogradsky method for analyzing singular systems, we consider the Hamiltonian formulation of metric and tetrad gravities in two-dimensional Riemannian spacetime treating them as constrained higher-derivative theories. The algebraic structure of the Poisson brackets of the constraints and the corresponding gauge transformations are investigated in both cases.
FERMION MASSES AND MIXING IN FOUR AND MORE DIMENSIONS
Authors: CHAMOUN N. , KHALIL S.
Published: January 2007

We give an overview of recent progress in the study of fermion mass and flavor mixing phenomena. Mass matrix ansatze are considered within the Standard Model (SM) and SUSY GUT's where some predictive frameworks based on SU(5) and SO(10) are reviewed. We describe a variety of schemes to construct quark mass matrices in extra dimensions focusing on four major classes: models with the SM residing on 3-brane, models with universal extra dimensions, models with split fermions and models with warped extra dimensions. We outline how realistic patterns of quark mass matrices could be derived from orbifold models in heterotic superstring theory. Finally, we address the fermion mass problem in intersecting D-branes scenarios, and present models with D6-branes able to give a good quantitatively description of quark masses and mixing. The role of flavor/CP violation problem as a probe of new physics is emphasized.
ACCELERATING UNIVERSE AS WINDOW FOR EXTRA DIMENSIONS
Authors: PANIGRAHI D. , CHATTERJEE S. , ZHANG Y. Z.
Published: January 2007

Homogeneous cosmological solutions are obtained in five-dimensional (5D) space–time assuming equations of state p = kρ and p1 = γρ where p is the isotropic 3-pressure and p1, that for the fifth dimension. Using different values for the constants k and γ many known solutions are rediscovered. Further the current acceleration of the universe has led us to investigate higher dimensional gravity theory, which is able to explain acceleration from a theoretical viewpoint without the need of introducing dark energy by hand. We also extend a recent work of Mohammedi where using a special form of the extra dimensional scale factor a new interpretation of the higher dimensional equations of motion is given and the concept of an effective 4D pressure is introduced. Interestingly the 5D matter field remains regular while the effective negative pressure is responsible for the inflation. Relaxing the assumptions of two equations of state we also present a class of solutions which provide early deceleration followed by a late acceleration in a unified manner. Relevant to point out that in this case our cosmology apparently mimics the well-known quintessence scenario fuelled by a generalized Chaplygin-type of fluid where a smooth transition from a dust dominated model to a de Sitter-like one takes place. Depending on the relative magnitude of the different constants appearing in our solutions we show that some of the cases are amenable to the desirable property of dimensional reduction.
COUPLINGS BETWEEN A COLLECTION OF BF MODELS AND A SET OF THREE-FORM GAUGE FIELDS
Authors: BIZDADEA CONSTANTIN , CIOROIANU EUGEN-MIHĂIŢĂ , SĂRARU SILVIU CONSTANTIN
Published: January 2007

Consistent interactions that can be added to a free, Abelian gauge theory comprising a collection of BF models and a set of three-form gauge fields are constructed from the deformation of the solution to the master equation based on specific cohomological techniques. Under the hypotheses of smooth, local, PT invariant, Lorentz covariant, and Poincaré invariant interactions, supplemented with the requirement on the preservation of the number of derivatives on each field with respect to the free theory, we obtain that the deformation procedure modifies the Lagrangian action, the gauge transformations as well as the accompanying algebra.
THE POLITICAL BEHAVIOR INTENTION IN INFORMATION SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT FROM MIS PROFESSIONALS' PERSPECTIVE: A STUDY BASED ON THE THEORY OF PLANNED BEHAVIOR
Authors: CHANG CHRISTINA LING-HSING
Published: January 2007

The purpose of this study is to analyze the major variables influencing the political behavior of MIS professionals in information system development (ISD). The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) is used to create the research model. We found that (1) Attitude, subjective norm, perceived political behavior control and perceived political efficacy have different effects on MIS professionals' intention with regard to political behavior in four scenarios; (2) Machiavellism significantly affects MIS professionals' attitudes, subjective norms, perceived political behavior control and perceived political efficacy in four scenarios; (3) As the types of power of MIS professionals are dynamic, no constant relationship exists between the types and the kinds of political behavior displayed in ISD.
Airway Surface Dehydration in Cystic Fibrosis: Pathogenesis and Therapy
Authors: Boucher Richard C.
Published: January 2007

Cystic fibrosis (CF) lung disease reflects the failure of airways defense against chronic bacterial infection. Studies of CF cultures, transgenic mice, and CF patients suggest that the initiating event in CF airways disease pathogenesis is reduced airway surface liquid (ASL) volume, i.e., dehydration. CF ASL volume regulation depends on a single extracellular signaling system, ATP, which renders CF airways more vulnerable to disease-causing insults (e.g., viruses) than are normal airways, which regulate ASL volume by dual ATP and adenosine signaling pathways. Clinical studies have explored the hypothesis that treating the dehydration of CF airways will be therapeutically beneficial. Inhaled hypertonic saline osmotically draws water onto airway surfaces, improves mucus clearance and pulmonary function, and reduces acute exacerbations in CF patients. Thus, rehydration therapies may slow the progression of CF lung disease in patients with established bacterial infection and may prevent the onset of CF lung disease if initiated early in life.
Cardiovascular Risks of Antiretroviral Therapies
Authors: Mondy Kristin , Tebas Pablo
Published: January 2007

The use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has resulted in sustained reductions in mortality from HIV infection. In recent years, HAART has also been associated with metabolic complications that may increase patients’ cardiovascular disease risk. Recent studies have begun to support a more complex interaction between HAART, HIV infection itself, and other traditional social and immunologic factors that may predispose patients to premature cardiovascular disease. Substantial progress has been made in the development of newer antiretroviral therapies that have a better metabolic profile with respect to dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, and lipodystrophy. Optimal selection of metabolically neutral antiretroviral therapies, together with aggressive management of other modifiable coronary risk factors, may improve cardiovascular disease risk in the long term.
Current Concepts in AIDS Pathogenesis: Insights from the SIV/Macaque Model
Authors: Lackner Andrew A. , Veazey Ronald S.
Published: January 2007

The pathogenesis of AIDS has proven to be quite complex and dynamic, with most of the critical events (e.g., transmission, CD4+T cell destruction) occurring in tissues that are not easily accessible for analysis. In addition, although the disease can progress over years, many critical events happen within the first few weeks of infection, when most patients are unaware that they are infected. The nonhuman primate model of AIDS has been used extensively to fill these gaps in our understanding of AIDS pathogenesis.