bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender‐ and age‐related benefit of renal replacement therapy on health‐related quality of life
Authors: Kontodimopoulos Nick , Pappa Evelina , Niakas Dimitris
Published: March 2009

Objectives:  The aim of this study was to compare the health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) of end‐stage renal disease patients on renal replacement therapy with that of subjects of the same gender and similar age from the general population, in an attempt to determine patient subgroup that benefits more from the treatment.

Methods:  A cross‐sectional study involving haemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis and renal transplant patients (n = 874) was conducted with subjects providing socio‐demographic and disease‐related data, and completing the validated Greek Short Form‐36 (SF‐36) Health Survey. Patient‐specific z‐scores were calculated using mean SF‐36 scores and SD of age‐ and gender‐matched subgroups from the Greek norms.

Results:  Males and younger patients generally reported better HRQOL. However, z‐scores in these groups generally showed a larger health deficit, i.e. an increased divergence from the HRQOL of their age‐ and gender‐matched counterparts of the general population, compared with the health deficit observed in female and younger patients.

Conclusions:  Health‐related quality of life studies involving disease groups may sometimes be inconclusive if results are not compared with population norms, and particularly with subgroups matched for important demographic variables. Otherwise, as this study has shown, it is possible that important information may remain unrevealed.
Attraction of petrels to artificial lights in the Canary Islands: effects of the moon phase and age class
Authors: RODRÍGUEZ AIRAM , RODRÍGUEZ BENEHARO
Published: March 2009

The extent and intensity of artificial night lighting has increased with urban development worldwide. The resulting light pollution is responsible for mortality among many Procellariiformes species which show nocturnal activity on their breeding grounds. Here, we report light‐induced mortality of Procellariiformes during a 9‐year study (1998–2006) on Tenerife, the largest island of the Canary archipelago. A total of 9880 birds from nine species were found grounded, the majority being Cory’s Shearwaters Calonectris diomedea (93.4%). For this species the majority of grounded birds were fledglings (96.4%), which fall apparently while leaving their nesting colony for the first time; for the smaller species (storm‐petrels) adult birds were more often grounded than fledglings. For almost all species, grounding showed a seasonal pattern linked with their breeding cycle. Certain phases of the moon influenced grounding of Cory’s Shearwater, with the extent of grounding being reduced during phases of full moon. The percentage of fledglings attracted to lights in relation to the fledglings produced annually varied between species and years (0–1.3% for the Madeiran Storm‐petrel Oceanodroma castro; 41–71% for Cory’s Shearwater). Mean adult mortality rates also varied between species (from 0.4% for the European Storm‐petrel Hydrobates pelagicus and the Cory’s Shearwater, to 2.3% for the Manx Shearwater Puffinus puffinus). Here we show that light‐induced mortality rates are of concern, at least for petrels and small shearwaters. Thanks to efforts involving civil cooperation, 95% of grounded birds have been returned to the wild. To minimize the impact of artificial lights on petrels we recommend several conservation measures: continuing rescue campaigns, alteration of light signatures and reduction of light emissions during the fledging peaks. Furthermore, we recommend that a monitoring program for petrel populations be implemented, as well as further studies to assess the fate of released fledglings and continued research to address why petrels are attracted to lights.
How news content influences anti‐immigration attitudes: Germany, 1993–2005
Authors: BOOMGAARDEN HAJO G. , VLIEGENTHART RENS
Published: March 2009

Immigration is an increasingly important political issue in Western democracies and a crucial question relates to the antecedents of public attitudes towards immigrants. It is generally acknowledged that information relayed through the mass media plays a role in the formation of anti‐immigration attitudes. This study considers whether news coverage of immigrants and immigration issues relates to macro‐level dynamics of anti‐immigration attitudes. It further explores whether this relationship depends on variation in relevant real world contexts. The models simultaneously control for the effects of established contextual explanatory variables. Drawing on German monthly time‐series data and on ARIMA time‐series modeling techniques, it is shown that both the frequency and the tone of coverage of immigrant actors in the news significantly influence dynamics in anti‐immigration attitudes. The strength of the effect of the news, however, depends on contextual variation in immigration levels and the number of asylum seekers. Implications of these findings are discussed in the light of the increasing success of extreme right parties and growing opposition to further European integration.
The more, the better? Counterfactual evidence on the effect of compulsory voting on the consistency of party choice
Authors: SELB PETER , LACHAT ROMAIN
Published: March 2009

Compulsory voting (CV) undoubtedly raises electoral turnout. Yet does it also affect individual party choices and aggregate election outcomes? Previous studies have focused on partisan or ‘directional’ effects of CV in favour of, for example, social‐democratic or anti‐establishment parties. These effects are usually small, however. Using survey data from the Belgian General Elections Study, this article finds that CV primarily affects the consistency, rather than the direction, of party choices. In particular, the analyses suggest that CV compels a substantial share of uninterested and less knowledgeable voters to the polls. These voters, in turn, cast votes that are clearly less consistent with their own political preferences than those of the more informed and motivated voluntary voters. Claims that CV promotes equal representation of political interests are therefore questionable.
The Occurrence and Ape‐to‐Ape Transmission of the Entodiniomorphid Ciliate Troglodytella abrassarti in Captive Gorillas
Authors: MODRÝ DAVID , PETRŽELKOVÁ KLÁRA J. , POMAJBÍKOVÁ KATEŘINA , TOKIWA TOSHIHIRO , KŘÍŽEK JAROSLAV , IMAI SOICHI , VALLO PETER , PROFOUSOVÁ ILONA , ŠLAPETA JAN
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT. Entodiniomorphid ciliates are often present in the colons of wild apes. In captive apes the infection tends to gradually disappear, with the exception of Troglodytella abrassarti. We used fecal examinations to screen the gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) in European (Czech Republic, UK) and Australian Zoos to explore the ape‐to‐ape transmission pattern of T. abrassarti. Gorillas from two out of three European Zoos were positive for T. abrassarti, while gorillas from the Australian Zoo were negative. We documented a horizontal transmission of T. abrassarti to a non‐infected adult gorilla introduced into a Troglodytella‐positive group in the Prague Zoo and traced the origin of the ciliate infection to the Paignton Zoo (UK) using serial fecal examinations. During this study, two infant gorillas born in the Prague Zoo (CZ) first became positive for T. abrassarti at the age of 9 mo. Ciliate morphology and the sequencing of the small subunit rRNA gene and the internal transcribed spacer rDNA spacer region revealed that T. abrassarti affects both captive gorillas and chimpanzees. We conclude that zoo transport plays a major role in the distribution of T. abrassarti among captive gorillas.
Protein Targeting into Secondary Plastids1
Authors: BOLTE KATHRIN , BULLMANN LARS , HEMPEL FRANZISKA , BOZARTH ANDREW , ZAUNER STEFAN , MAIER UWE‐G.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT. Most of the coding capacity of primary plastids is reserved for expressing some central components of the photosynthesis machinery and the translation apparatus. Thus, for the bulk of biochemical and cell biological reactions performed within the primary plastids, many nucleus‐encoded components have to be transported posttranslationally into the organelle. The same is true for plastids surrounded by more than two membranes, where additional cellular compartments have to be supplied with nucleus‐encoded proteins, leading to a corresponding increase in complexity of topogenic signals, transport and sorting machineries. In this review, we summarize recent progress in elucidating protein transport across up to five plastid membranes in plastids evolved in secondary endosymbiosis. Current data indicate that the mechanisms for protein transport across multiple membranes have evolved by altering pre‐existing ones to new requirements in secondary plastids.
Aβ aggregation and possible implications in Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis
Authors: Bharadwaj Prashant R. , Dubey Ashok K. , Masters Colin L. , Martins Ralph N. , Macreadie Ian G.
Published: March 2009

Introduction

Amyloid Structure

Mechanism of Amyloid aggregation

Aβ: a natively unfolded protein?

Ambiguities in synthetic Ab studies

Formation of Amyloid plaques

Role of Ab in AD Pathogenesis

Conclusion

Amyloid β protein (Aβ) has been associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) because it is a major component of the extracellular plaque found in AD brains. Increased Aβ levels correlate with the cognitive decline observed in AD. Sporadic AD cases are thought to be chiefly associated with lack of Aβ clearance from the brain, unlike familial AD which shows increased Aβ production. Aβ aggregation leading to deposition is an essential event in AD. However, the factors involved in Aβ aggregation and accumulation in sporadic AD have not been completely characterized. This review summarizes studies that have examined the factors that affect Aβ aggregation and toxicity. By necessity these are studies that are performed with recombinant‐derived or chemically synthesized Aβ. The studies therefore are not done in animals but in cell culture, which includes neuronal cells, other mammalian cells and, in some cases, non‐mammalian cells that also appear susceptible to Aβ toxicity. An understanding of Aβ oligomerization may lead to better strategies to prevent AD.
Hydrogen sulfide and the vasculature: a novel vasculoprotective entity and regulator of nitric oxide bioavailability?
Authors: Whiteman Matthew , Moore Philip K.
Published: March 2009

Introduction

Reactive nitrogen species (RNS) in the heart and vasculature

(H2S) biosynthesis

H2S measurement, catabolism and removal

H2S in the heart and vasculature

Evidence for ‘cross‐talk’ between nitric oxide and H2S

Evidence for the formation of a novel intermediate between nitric oxide and H2S at physiological pH

Concluding remarks

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a well known and pungent toxic gas that has recently been shown to be synthesised in man from the amino acids cystathionine, homocysteine and cysteine by at least two distinct enzymes; cystathionine‐γ‐lyase and cystathionine‐β‐synthase. In the past few years, H2S has emerged as a novel and increasingly important mediator in the cardiovascular system but delineating the precise physiology and pathophysiology of H2S is proving to be complex and difficult to unravel with disparate findings reported with cell types, tissue types and animal species reported. Therefore, in this review we summarize the mechanisms by which H2S has been proposed to regulate blood pressure and cardiac function, discuss the mechanistic discrepancies reported in the literature as well as the therapeutic potential of H2S. We also examine the methods of H2S detection in biological fluids, processes for H2S removal and discuss the reported blood levels of H2S in man and animal models of cardiovascular pathology. We also highlight the complex interaction of H2S with nitric oxide in regulating cardiovascular function in health and disease.
Typical 2‐Cys peroxiredoxins – modulation by covalent transformations and noncovalent interactions
Authors: Aran Martin , Ferrero Diego S. , Pagano Eduardo , Wolosiuk Ricardo A.
Published: March 2009

2‐Cys peroxiredoxins are peroxidases devoid of prosthetic groups that mediate in the defence against oxidative stress and the peroxide activation of signaling pathways. This dual capacity relies on the high reactivity of the conserved peroxidatic and resolving cysteines, whose modification embraces not only the usual thiol–disulfide exchange but also higher oxidation states of the sulfur atom. These changes are part of a complex system wherein the cooperation with other post‐translational modifications – phosphorylation, acetylation – may function as major regulatory mechanisms of the quaternary structure. More importantly, modern proteomic approaches have identified the oxyacids at cysteine residues as novel protein targets for unsuspected post‐translational modifications, such as phosphorylation that yields the unusual sulfi(o)nic–phosphoryl anhydride. In this article, we review the biochemical attributes of 2‐Cys peroxiredoxins that, in combination with complementary studies of forward and reverse genetics, have generated stimulating molecular models to explain how this enzyme integrates into cell signaling in vivo.
ATP‐binding domain of heat shock protein 70 is essential for its effects on the inhibition of the release of the second mitochondria‐derived activator of caspase and apoptosis in C2C12 cells
Authors: Jiang Bimei , Wang Kangkai , Liang Pengfei , Xiao Weimin , Wang Haiyun , Xiao Xianzhong
Published: March 2009

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a well known oxidative stress inducer causing apoptosis of many cells. Previously, we have shown that heat shock pretreatment blocked the release of the second mitochondria‐derived activator of caspase (Smac) to the cytosol and inhibited apoptosis of C2C12 myoblast cells in response to H2O2. The present study aimed to elucidate the underlying mechanism by over‐expressing a major stress‐inducible protein, heat shock protein (HSP) 70, and characterizing the resulting cellular changes. We demonstrate that HSP70 over‐expression markedly inhibited the release of Smac and prevented the activation of caspases‐9 and ‐3 and apoptosis in C2C12 cells under H2O2 treatment. However, no direct interaction between HSP70 and Smac was observed by co‐immunoprecipitation. Mutational analysis demonstrated that the ATP‐binding domain of HSP70, rather than the peptide‐binding domain, was essential for these observed HSP functions. Taken together, our results provide evidence supporting the role of HSP70 in the protection of C2C12 cells from H2O2‐induced and Smac‐promoted apoptosis by preventing the release of Smac from mitochondria, thereby inhibiting activation of caspases‐9 and ‐3. This mechanism of HSP70 action is dependent on its ATP‐binding domain but independent of its interaction with Smac protein.
Retailers' choice of product variety and exclusive dealing under asymmetric information
Authors: Yehezkel Yaron
Published: March 2009

This article considers vertical relations between an upstream manufacturer and a downstream retailer that can independently obtain a low‐quality, discount substitute. The analysis reveals that under full information, the retailer offers both varieties if and only if it is optimal to do so under vertical integration. However, when the retailer is privately informed about demand, it offers both varieties even if under vertical integration it is profitable to offer only the manufacturer's product. If the manufacturer can impose exclusive dealing, then under asymmetric information it will do so and foreclose the low‐quality substitute even if under vertical integration it is profitable to offer both varieties.
Efficient partnership dissolution under buy‐sell clauses
Authors: de Frutos María‐Angeles , Kittsteiner Thomas
Published: March 2009

Buy‐sell clauses are commonly used contractual provisions to determine the terms of dissolution of partnerships. Under them, one party offers a price for the partnership and the other party chooses whether to sell her share or buy her partner's share at this price. We point out that the selection of the proposing partner is essential for the performance of the clause. Moreover, if partners negotiate for the advantage of being the chooser, then buy‐sell clauses result in an ex post efficient outcome. Such endogenous selection is consistent with how buy‐sell clauses are drafted in practice.
Single sourcing versus multiple sourcing
Authors: Inderst Roman
Published: March 2009

We show that in contrast to results in the extant literature, single sourcing may not be the optimal strategy of a buyer facing suppliers with strictly convex costs. As we argue, previous findings relied crucially on the joint assumption that, first, there is only a single buyer and that, second, procurement takes place in an auction organized by the buyer. Relaxing these restrictions, we obtain a richer set of results. In particular, we show that even in the original setting, where suppliers bid, committing to single sourcing is only optimal if the respective buyer controls a sufficiently large fraction of the whole procurement market.
The value of information and optimal organization
Authors: Severinov Sergei
Published: March 2009

The article addresses the issue of optimal organization of production. I compare three organizational forms: centralization (one agent produces different inputs), decentralization (each of two agents produces a different input and contracts directly with the principal), and delegation (two agents produce different inputs, the principal contracts with one of them only). The optimal organizational form depends on the degree of complementarity/substitutability between the inputs in the final use. The degree of complementarity/substitutability also determines whether delegation is payoff equivalent to the two‐agent mechanism from the point of view of the principal. In the context of delegation, I consider which of the two agents should serve as the primary contractor. I also address the issue of collusion between the agents in a decentralized organization and characterize the conditions under which a stake of collusion exists.
Optimal choice of characteristics for a nonexcludable good
Authors: Brocas Isabelle
Published: March 2009

In this model, a principal decides whether to produce one indivisible good and which characteristics it contains. Agents are differentiated along two substitutable dimensions: a vertical parameter that captures their valuation for the good, and a horizontal parameter that captures their disutility when the characteristics are distant from their preferred ones. When valuations are private information, the principal produces a good with characteristics more on the lines of the preferences of the agent with the lowest valuation. Under asymmetric information on the horizontal dimension, the principal biases the decision in favor of the agent who incurs the highest disutility.
Endothelium‐dependent vasodilatation and exercise hyperaemia in ageing humans: impact of acute ascorbic acid administration
Authors: Kirby Brett S. , Voyles Wyatt F. , Simpson Carrie B. , Carlson Rick E. , Schrage William G. , Dinenno Frank A.
Published: March 2009

Age‐related increases in oxidative stress impair endothelium‐dependent vasodilatation in humans, leading to the speculation that endothelial dysfunction contributes to impaired muscle blood flow and vascular control during exercise in older adults. We directly tested this hypothesis in 14 young (22 ± 1 years) and 14 healthy older men and women (65 ± 2 years). We measured forearm blood flow (FBF; Doppler ultrasound) and calculated vascular conductance (FVC) responses to single muscle contractions at 10, 20 and 40% maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) before and during ascorbic acid (AA) infusion, and we also determined the effects of AA on muscle blood flow during mild (10% MVC) continuous rhythmic handgrip exercise. For single contractions, the peak rapid hyperaemic responses to all contraction intensities were impaired ∼45% in the older adults (all P < 0.05), and AA infusion did not impact the responses in either age group. For the rhythmic exercise trial, FBF (∼28%) and FVC (∼31%) were lower (P= 0.06 and 0.05) in older versus young adults after 5 min of steady‐state exercise with saline. Subsequently, AA was infused via brachial artery catheter for 10 min during continued exercise. AA administration did not significantly influence FBF or FVC in young adults (1–3%; P= 0.24–0.59), whereas FBF increased 34 ± 7% in older adults at end‐exercise, and this was due to an increase in FVC (32 ± 7%; both P < 0.05). This increase in FBF and FVC during exercise in older adults was associated with improvements in vasodilator responses to acetylcholine (ACh; endothelium dependent) but not sodium nitroprusside (SNP; endothelium independent). AA had no effect on ACh or SNP responses in the young. We conclude that acute AA administration does not impact the observed age‐related impairment in the rapid hyperaemic response to brief muscle contractions in humans; however, it does significantly increase muscle blood flow during continuous dynamic exercise in older adults, and this is probably due (in part) to an improvement in endothelium‐dependent vasodilatation.
Neural and non‐neural control of skin blood flow during isometric handgrip exercise in the heat stressed human
Authors: Shibasaki Manabu , Rasmussen Peter , Secher Niels H. , Crandall Craig G.
Published: March 2009

During heat stress, isometric handgrip (IHG) exercise causes cutaneous vasoconstriction, but it remains controversial whether neural mechanisms are responsible for this observation. The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that cutaneous vasoconstriction during IHG exercise in heat stressed individuals occurs via a neural mechanism. An axillary nerve blockade was performed to block efferent nerve traffic to the left forearm in seven healthy subjects. Two intradermal microdialysis probes were placed within forearm skin of the blocked area. Forearm skin blood flow was measured by laser‐Doppler flowmetry over the microdialysis probes as well as from skin of the contralateral (unblocked) forearm. Cutaneous vascular conductance (CVC) was calculated from the ratio of skin blood flow to mean arterial pressure. Effectiveness of nerve blockade was verified by the absence of tactile sensation, as well as an absence of sweating and cutaneous vasodilatation during a whole‐body heat stress. Upon this confirmation, adenosine was perfused through one of the microdialysis probes to increase skin blood flow similar to that of the unblocked site. After internal temperature increased ∼0.7°C, subjects performed 2 min of IHG exercise at 35% of maximal voluntary contraction using the non‐blocked arm. IHG exercise significantly decreased CVC at the unblocked site (82.3 ± 5.7 to 70.9 ± 5.4%max, P= 0.005, means ±s.e.m.) and the adenosine treated site of the blocked arm (75.2 ± 7.2 to 68.3 ± 6.6%max, P= 0.005), whereas CVC was unchanged at the blocked site that did not receive adenosine (15.7 ± 2.8 to 13.7 ± 2.0%max, P= 0.10). Importantly, the reduction in CVC was greater at the unblocked site than at the adenosine treated site (11.4 ± 2.6 vs. 6.9 ± 1.6%max, respectively, P= 0.01). These findings suggest that neural and non‐neural mechanisms contribute to the reduction in forearm CVC during IHG exercise in heat stressed humans.
Design and Manufacture of Spiral Bevel Gears With Reduced Transmission Errors
Authors: Simon Vilmos V.
Published: March 2009

A method for the determination of the optimal polynomial functions for the conduction of machine-tool setting variations in pinion teeth finishing in order to reduce the transmission errors in spiral bevel gears is presented. Polynomial functions of order up to 5 are applied to conduct the variation in the cradle radial setting and in the cutting ratio in the process for pinion teeth generation. Two cases were investigated: In the first case, the coefficients of the polynomial functions are constant throughout the whole generation process of one pinion tooth-surface; in the second case, the coefficients are different for the generation of the pinion tooth-surface on the two sides of the initial contact point. The obtained results have shown that by the use of two different fifth-order polynomial functions for the variation in the cradle radial setting for the generation of the pinion tooth-surface on the two sides of the initial contact point, the maximum transmission error can be reduced by 81%. By the use of the optimal modified roll, this reduction is 61%. The obtained results have also shown that by the optimal variation in the cradle radial setting, the influence of misalignments inherent in the spiral bevel gear pair and of the transmitted torque on the increase in transmission errors can be considerably reduced.
Brx Mediates the Response of Lymphocytes to Osmotic Stress Through the Activation of NFAT5
Authors: Kino Tomoshige , Takatori Hiroaki , Manoli Irini , Wang Yonghong , Tiulpakov Anatoly , Blackman Marc R. , Su Yan A. , Chrousos George P. , DeCherney Alan H. , Segars James H.
Published: March 2009

The guanine nucleotide exchange factor Brx is essential for osmotic stress–mediated expression of
nfat5
in lymphocytes.
Dok-7 Activates the Muscle Receptor Kinase MuSK and Shapes Synapse Formation
Authors: Inoue Akane , Setoguchi Kiyoko , Matsubara Yosuke , Okada Kumiko , Sato Nozomi , Iwakura Yoichiro , Higuchi Osamu , Yamanashi Yuji
Published: March 2009

The cytoplasmic protein Dok-7 is required for the full activation of the receptor tyrosine kinase MuSK.
Right on Target
Authors: Hurtley Stella M.
Published: March 2009

Newly made proteins destined to be inserted into membranes trigger an RNA switch that promotes initiation of this process.
Changing the Program
Authors: Foley John F.
Published: March 2009

Mouse bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stem cells change the cytokine profile of macrophages during sepsis, leading to increased survival.
Intoxicating AMPylation
Authors: Hurtley Stella M.
Published: March 2009

A GI-active pathogen destroys intestinal cells, in part by improperly modifying a host signaling protein, causing loss of cell shape and contributing to cell death.
G Protein–Included Receptors in Plants
Authors: Ray L. Bryan
Published: March 2009

Receptors for the plant hormone abscisic acid have built-in G protein modules.
Escape Artists
Authors: Pickersgill Helen
Published: March 2009

A persistence factor similar to a eukaryotic kinase regulates bacterial dormancy and contributes to antibiotic resistance in
E. coli
.
Protein Kinase Activation Loop Autophosphorylation in Cis: Overcoming a Catch-22 Situation
Authors: Lochhead Pamela A.
Published: March 2009

The mechanisms by which kinases activate themselves are still emerging.
Wait for Me
Authors: Gough Nancy R.
Published: March 2009

DNA-containing organelles signal the nucleus when replication of their DNA is complete to coordinate DNA replication and the cell cycle.
Channeling Cortical Rhythm?
Authors: Adler Elizabeth M.
Published: March 2009

Ketamine inhibits HCN1 channels.
Multiple Pathways to Antifungal Immunity
Authors: Gough Nancy R.
Published: March 2009

The lectin receptor dectin-1 triggers three pathways that fine-tune cytokine secretion in response to exposure to fungi.
Grab Your Partner with Both Hands: Cytoskeletal Remodeling by Arp2/3 Signaling
Authors: Soderling Scott H.
Published: March 2009

Dimerization provides an additional layer of regulation to the activity of a family of actin-nucleating factors.
More Substance to Excitation
Authors: Foley John F.
Published: March 2009

The neuropeptide substance P activates the cation channel NALCN in a G protein–independent manner to evoke slow excitation of neurons.
Counting Centrosomes
Authors: Riddihough Guy
Published: March 2009

A DNA replication factor ensures that only two centrioles are formed during cell division in animal cells.
Working Memory and Dopamine
Authors: Stern Peter
Published: March 2009

Training of working memory alters brain biochemistry by changing the density of cortical dopamine receptors.
Porous Light
Authors: Wong Wei
Published: March 2009

Red light increases the proportion of stomata in plant leaves through a photoreceptor and an interacting transcription factor.
Death Fragment
Authors: Foley John F.
Published: March 2009

An amyloid precursor protein (APP)–derived protein binds to DR6 to trigger axonal degeneration and neuronal cell death in response to neurotrophic factor deprivation.
Both a Transcription Factor and a Phosphatase
Authors: Adler Elizabeth M.
Published: March 2009

The transcription factor Eya has a distinct role as a cytoplasmic phosphatase.
Nuclear Glutaredoxin Promotes Petals
Authors: Gough Nancy R.
Published: March 2009

The glutaredoxin ROXY1 controls petal formation by regulating the activity of transcription factors of the TGA family.
Differential Aging
Authors: Hines Pamela J.
Published: March 2009

A logic circuit involving microRNA and transcription factors ensures the timely demise of plant leaves.
Caloric Intake and Stress Relief?
Authors: Ray L. Bryan
Published: March 2009

The longevity factor SIRT1 influences protein stability by keeping heat shock factor 1 in its active state.
Chemoattractant Receptors and Leukocyte Recruitment: More Than Cell Migration
Authors: Borroni Elena Monica , Bonecchi Raffaella , Mantovani Alberto , Locati Massimo
Published: March 2009

Atypical “chemoattractant receptors” that do not signal through G proteins contribute to leukocyte recruitment through indirect mechanisms.
Jasmonate: Preventing the Maize Tassel from Getting in Touch with His Feminine Side
Authors: Browse John
Published: March 2009

Male identity in the maize tassel is controlled by jasmonate signaling.
Endogenous Antisense Increases p53
Authors: Gough Nancy R.
Published: March 2009

Expression of an antisense transcript that overlaps with the first exon of p53 increases the abundance of p53.
Encoding Hypertrophy Separately from Contraction
Authors: Gough Nancy R.
Published: March 2009

Autocrine endothelin-1 signaling triggers a calcium signal in the nuclear region that contributes to hypertrophy of heart cells.
BMPed into an Endocytic Sink Trap
Authors: Wong Wei
Published: March 2009

A regulator of bone morphogenetic protein switches from enhancing to inhibiting activity at high concentrations.
Oligomers of Dementia
Authors: Gough Nancy R.
Published: March 2009

Oligomerization of angiotensin II receptors contributes to Alzheimer’s disease.
Turning NF-κB On and Off
Authors: Wong Wei
Published: March 2009

Casein kinase 1α is both a signal enhancer and terminator for the activation of a transcription factor in lymphocytes.
Paternal Influences on Zygote Development
Authors: Hines Pamela J.
Published: March 2009

Transcripts of a cytoplasmic gene from sperm are translated after fertilization and control asymmetric zygotic division.
Immunological Balancing Act
Authors: Mueller Kristen
Published: March 2009

Suppressor T cells selectively differentiate into helper T cells in the mouse gut and thereby promote immune homeostasis.
Plugging In Motoneurons
Authors: Wong Wei
Published: March 2009

A Wnt ligand acting through a receptor tyrosine kinase restricts neuromuscular junctions to the central muscle zone.
Check Out the Checkpoint
Authors: Ray L. Bryan
Published: March 2009

Electron microscopy captures cell cycle checkpoint proteins in the act of inhibiting cell division in HeLa cells.
Measurement of Phosphorylated Extracellular Signal–Regulated Kinase 1 and 2 in an Undergraduate Teaching Laboratory with ALPHAscreen Technology
Authors: Hay Debbie L.
Published: March 2009

Students use a high-throughput assay to monitor cellular responses to receptor activation.
Unusual Class 1 Integron-Associated Gene Cassette Configuration Found in IncA/C Plasmids from
Salmonella enterica
Authors: Evershed Nick J. , Levings Renee S. , Wilson Neil L. , Djordjevic Steven P. , Hall Ruth M.
Published: March 2009

IncA/C plasmids carrying an unusual cassette configuration in a class 1 integron and five further shared resistance genes,
aacC4
,
aphA1
,
hph
,
sul2
, and
tetA
(D) were found in
Salmonella enterica
serovars Senftenberg and Ohio. A deletion formed using a short region of homology in the 5′ conserved segment and the orfF cassette created an array with only part of orfF followed by the
aadA2
cassette. The IncA/C plasmids were not recoverable by conjugation, but additional conjugative resistance plasmids were present in some strains.
P1A Recombinant β-Lactamase Prevents Emergence of Antimicrobial Resistance in Gut Microflora of Healthy Subjects during Intravenous Administration of Ampicillin
Authors: Tarkkanen Ann-Mari , Heinonen Tuula , Jõgi Rain , Mentula Silja , van der Rest Michel E. , Donskey Curtis J. , Kemppainen Tuomas , Gurbanov Konstantin , Nord Carl Erik
Published: March 2009

Ipsat P1A is a recombinant β-lactamase which degrades antibiotic residue in the gastrointestinal tract. In an open-label, single-center controlled trial, 36 healthy subjects were randomized to receive (i) ampicillin (1 g intravenously [i.v.] every 6 h [q6h]), (ii) oral P1A recombinant β-lactamase (8.2 mg q6h), or (iii) ampicillin (1 g i.v. q6h) in combination with oral P1A recombinant β-lactamase (8.2 mg q6h) for 5 days. Fecal samples were collected before treatment, during treatment (days 3 to 5), and at follow-up (day 12). The primary end points were (i) changes in gastrointestinal microflora (determined by temperature gradient gel electrophoresis [TGGE]) and (ii) emergence of bacterial resistance (determined by conventional microbiology and PCR of TEM β-lactamase genes). Thirty-five subjects completed the study. The mean similarity percentages of TGGE profiles between baseline and each treatment day sample were significantly lower for the ampicillin group than for the group receiving ampicillin plus P1A recombinant β-lactamase on days 3, 4, and 5 (
P
< 0.001). Compared with the ampicillin group, subjects receiving ampicillin plus P1A recombinant β-lactamase had significantly fewer ampicillin-resistant coliforms on days 3, 4, and 5 and at follow-up (
P
≤ 0.001) and fewer TEM β-lactamase genes on days 3, 4, and 5 (
P
< 0.02). P1A recombinant β-lactamase was safe and well tolerated. In healthy subjects, P1A recombinant β-lactamase prevents ampicillin-induced alterations in intestinal microflora, emergence of resistance, and the number of TEM genes.
Colorimetric High-Throughput Screen for Detection of Heme Crystallization Inhibitors
Authors: Rush Margaret A. , Baniecki Mary Lynn , Mazitschek Ralph , Cortese Joseph F. , Wiegand Roger , Clardy Jon , Wirth Dyann F.
Published: March 2009

Malaria infects 500 million people annually, a number that is likely to rise as drug resistance to currently used antimalarials increases. During its intraerythrocytic stage, the causative parasite,
Plasmodium falciparum
, metabolizes hemoglobin and releases toxic heme, which is neutralized by a parasite-specific crystallization mechanism to form hemozoin. Evidence suggests that chloroquine, the most successful antimalarial agent in history, acts by disrupting the formation of hemozoin. Here we describe the development of a 384-well microtiter plate screen to detect small molecules that can also disrupt heme crystallization. This assay, which is based on a colorimetric assay developed by Ncokazi and Egan (K. K. Ncokazi and T. J. Egan, Anal. Biochem.
338:
306-319, 2005), requires no parasites or parasite-derived reagents and no radioactive materials and is suitable for a high-throughput screening platform. The assay's reproducibility and large dynamic range are reflected by a
Z
factor of 0.74. A pilot screen of 16,000 small molecules belonging to diverse structural classes was conducted. The results of the target-based assay were compared with a whole-parasite viability assay of the same small molecules to identify small molecules active in both assays.
Preclinical Characterization of PF-00868554, a Potent Nonnucleoside Inhibitor of the Hepatitis C Virus RNA-Dependent RNA Polymerase
Authors: Shi Stephanie T. , Herlihy Koleen J. , Graham Joanne P. , Nonomiya Jim , Rahavendran Sadayappan V. , Skor Heather , Irvine Rebecca , Binford Susan , Tatlock John , Li Hui , Gonzalez Javier , Linton Angelica , Patick Amy K. , Lewis Cristina
Published: March 2009

PF-00868554 is a nonnucleoside inhibitor of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA polymerase, which exerts its inhibitory effect by binding to the thumb base domain of the protein. It is a potent and selective inhibitor, with a mean 50% inhibitory concentration of 0.019 μM against genotype 1 polymerases and a mean 50% effective concentration (EC
50
) of 0.075 μM against the genotype 1b-Con1 replicon. To determine the in vitro antiviral activity of PF-00868554 against various HCV strains, a panel of chimeric replicons was generated, in which polymerase sequences derived from genotype 1a and 1b clinical isolates were cloned into the 1b-Con1 subgenomic reporter replicon. Our results indicate that PF-00868554 has potent in vitro antiviral activity against a majority (95.8%) of genotype 1a and 1b replicons, with an overall mean EC
50
of 0.059 μM. PF-00868554 showed no cytotoxic effect in several human cell lines, up to the highest concentration evaluated (320 μM). Furthermore, the antiviral activity of PF-00868554 was retained in the presence of human serum proteins. An in vitro resistance study of PF-00868554 identified M423T as the predominant resistance mutation, resulting in a 761-fold reduction in susceptibility to PF-00868554 but no change in susceptibility to alpha interferon and a polymerase inhibitor that binds to a different region. PF-00868554 also showed good pharmacokinetic properties in preclinical animal species. Our results demonstrate that PF-00868554 has potent and broad-spectrum antiviral activity against genotype 1 HCV strains, supporting its use as an oral antiviral agent in HCV-infected patients.
In Vivo Selection of Reduced Susceptibility to Carbapenems in
Acinetobacter baumannii
Related to IS
Aba1
-Mediated Overexpression of the Natural
bla
OXA-66
Oxacillinase Gene
Authors: Figueiredo Samy , Poirel Laurent , Croize Jacques , Recule Christine , Nordmann Patrice
Published: March 2009

Two clonally related
Acinetobacter baumannii
isolates, A1 and A2, were obtained from the same patient. Isolate A2, selected after an imipenem-containing treatment, showed reduced susceptibility to carbapenems. This resistance pattern was related to insertion of the IS
Aba1
element upstream of the naturally occurring
bla
OXA-66
carbapenemase gene as demonstrated by sequencing, reverse transcription-PCR analysis, and inactivation of the
bla
OXA-66
gene.
Diversity of
Ehrlichia ruminantium
Major Antigenic Protein 1-2 in Field Isolates and Infected Sheep
Authors: Barbet Anthony F. , Byrom Barbara , Mahan Suman M.
Published: March 2009

Proteins expressed from the
map1
multigene family of
Ehrlichia ruminantium
are strongly recognized by immune T and B cells from infected animals or from animals that were infected and have recovered from heartwater disease (although still remaining infected carriers). Analogous multigene clusters also encode the immunodominant outer membrane proteins (OMPs) in other ehrlichial species. Recombinant protein analogs of the expressed genes and DNA vaccines based on the multigene clusters have been shown to induce protective immunity, although this was less effective in heterologous challenge situations, where the challenge strain major antigenic protein 1 (MAP1) sequence differed from the vaccine strain MAP1. Recent data for several ehrlichial species show differential expression of the OMPs in mammalian versus tick cell cultures and dominant expression of individual family members in each type of culture system. However, many genes in the clusters appear to be complete and functional and to generate mRNA transcripts. Recent data also suggest that there may be a low level of protein expression from many members of the multigene family, despite primary high-level expression from an individual member. A continuing puzzle, therefore, is the biological roles of the different members of these OMP multigene families. Complete genome sequences are now available for two geographically divergent strains of
E. ruminantium
(Caribbean and South Africa strains). Comparison of these sequences revealed amino acid sequence diversity in MAP1 (89% identity), which is known to confer protection in a mouse model and to be the multigene family member primarily expressed in mammalian cells. Surprisingly, however, the greatest sequence diversity (79% identity) was in the less-studied
map1-2
gene. We investigated here whether this
map1-2
diversity was a general feature of
E. ruminantium
in different cultured African strains and in organisms from infected sheep. Comparison of MAP1-2s revealed amino acid identities of 75 to 100% (mean of 86%), compared to 84 to 100% (mean of 89%) for MAP1s. Interestingly, MAP1-2s varied independently of MAP1s such that
E. ruminantium
strains with similar MAP1s had diverse MAP1-2s and vice versa. Different MAP1-2s were found in individual infected sheep. Different regions of a protein may be subjected to different evolutionary forces because of recombination and/or selection, which results in those regions not agreeing with a phylogeny deduced from the whole molecule. This appears to be true for both MAP1 and MAP1-2, where statistical likelihood methods detect heterogeneous evolutionary rates for segments of both molecules. Sera from infected cattle recognized a MAP1-2 variable-region peptide in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, but less strongly and consistently than a MAP1 peptide (MAP1B). Heterologous protective immunity may depend on recognition of a complex set of varying OMP epitopes.
Impacts of automation technology on quality of project deliverables in the Taiwanese construction industry
Authors: Yang Li-Ren
Published: March 2009

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impacts of automation technology on project deliverables from the perspectives of various stakeholders. To address the primary aim, a survey was conducted to determine correlations between quality of project deliverables and automation adoption at the phase and task levels. This study also explored the links between automation utilization and project deliverables in detail. A second survey was used to identify common characteristics associated with the project deliverable-leveraging tasks. The analyses suggest that the quality of project deliverables is significantly associated with automation usage in the front-end, design, procurement, and construction phases. In addition, degrees of automation used in executing the project deliverable-leveraging tasks may have a significant impact on the correctness and completeness of project deliverables. The results also indicate that information and data intensive, management-related, and work-procedure-related characteristics can positively influence the quality of project deliverables.
Alternative single-number indicator of longitudinal road unevenness
Authors: Kropáč Oldřich , Múčka Peter
Published: March 2009

For the full characterization of the longitudinal road unevenness based on the road elevation power spectral density (PSD), at least two independent indicators are necessary: the unevenness index and the waviness. Yet, for road management purposes, single-number unevenness indicators are still required and a number of such indicators have been proposed to date. The main problem of this issue consists in an adequate combination of the two mentioned indicators to obtain a single indicator whose application would fulfil the requirements, which are sometimes contradictory. The importance of the interaction coupling between the road and the travelling vehicle, in which the vehicle speed also plays a significant role, is emphasized. An alternative single-number indicator is proposed based on the equivalent vibration response effect, which the uneven road causes on the traversing vehicle. Other approaches to this problem are briefly discussed using comparative examples, including the indirect approach, a proposal for the modification of the international roughness index (IRI), and an assessment of the subjective rating methods.
Construction process technologies: a meta-analysis of Canadian research
Authors: Froese Thomas
Published: March 2009

As one component of a broader initiative to develop a roadmap for innovation in process technologies throughout the Canadian construction industry, a survey and meta-analysis of current research and developmental activity was conducted. Twenty-two researchers were surveyed, resulting in an inventory of more than 100 research project descriptions. This dataset was used to develop a series of roadmaps of the current research and development activity. The results show a number of high-quality research initiatives underway spanning a wide range of application areas, technologies, and innovation process phases. The recommendations focus primarily on the need to continue the roadmapping process. The study has identified some of the issues that should be addressed and provided elements of the framework for ongoing strategic planning — yet it provides only a modest incremental step toward establishing overall mechanisms to harness the ongoing research activity to drive effectively the innovation process throughout the Canadian construction industry.
A statistical practical methodology of statewide traffic pattern grouping and precision analysis
Authors: Bassan Shy
Published: March 2009

Traffic data in general and traffic volume in particular are collected to determine the use and performance of the roadway system. Due to budget limitations, traffic volume cannot be counted day by day for every roadway within the state. Therefore, the volume on roadways without automatic traffic recorders (ATRs) can be determined by taking portable short-duration counts and using adjustment factors to produce annual average daily traffic (AADT) at a specific location. This study presents a statistical practical methodology that develops traffic pattern groups (TPGs) by combining roadways with similar traffic characteristics such as volume, seasonal variation, and land use in Delaware, USA. Monthly seasonal adjustment factors and their coefficient of variance (FCV) are analyzed for each group. To meet the desired confidence level and precision intervals, the TPGs’ ATR inventory is examined such that the required sample size is determined by the critical month.
Caractérisation microstructurale des fibres naturelles pour des matériaux composites à base de ciment
Authors: Juarez Cesar , Fajardo Gerardo , Valdez Pedro
Published: March 2009

Le comportement mécanique des bétons renforcés de fibres naturelles dépend principalement de l’adhérence entre la fibre et la matrice de ciment. Cette adhérence a aussi une certaine influence sur le type d’endommagement de ces matériaux. Cette recherche a été menée sur des fibres naturelles de lecheguilla (Agave lecheguilla). Des essais chimiques, physiques et mécaniques tels que la détermination de la composition chimique, la morphologie, la porosité, l’absorption d’eau et les résistances à la traction et à la flexion ont été réalisés en utilisant ces fibres naturelles. Des observations à l’interface fibre–matrice de ciment ont aussi été effectuées à l’aide du stéréoscope pour évaluer l’effet du milieu alcalin et de différents rapports eau/ciment (E/C) sur la performance de mortier fibré. On a constaté que la résistance mécanique à la traction et à la flexion du matériau composite augmente, d’une part, avec l’augmentation de la longueur et, d’autre part, avec la diminution du volume de fibres utilisé. Le principal type de défaillance observée est l’arrachement des fibres. De plus, l’adhérence entre les fibres et la matrice de ciment est modifiée par les changements volumétriques et l’absorption d’eau relativement élevée. Néanmoins, cette adhérence peut être substantiellement améliorée en faisant un traitement superficiel des fibres à l’aide de solutions chimiques, comme le xylène, et en utilisant des faibles rapports E/C.