bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Basic Science Review: Nitric Oxide—Releasing Prosthetic Materials
Authors: Varu Vinit N. , Tsihlis Nick D. , Kibbe Melina R.
Published: September 2008

Prosthetic devices that come into contact with blood ultimately fail secondary to thrombus formation. This limits the utility of a variety of materials used to surgically treat cardiovascular disease, including vascular grafts and stents, as well as sensors and catheters placed within the circulatory system. Moreover, systemic anticoagulation that is used to prevent malfunction of these devices has potential for serious complications. It is known that nitric oxide (NO) produced via the endothelium imparts thromboresistant properties to native blood vessels. Thus, if NO were delivered locally to the site of the prosthetic material, it has the potential to halt thrombus formation while limiting life-threatening side effects. This review serves to examine the variety of NO-releasing materials that have been created with the two different classes of NO donors, the diazeniumdiolates and S-nitrosothiols, and the clinical applications of these prosthetics for potential future use.
Ductile Cu–Al–Mn based shape memory alloys: General properties and applications
Authors: Sutou Y. , Omori T. , Kainuma R. , Ishida K.
Published: September 2008

Polycrystalline Cu–Al–Mn shape memory alloys (SMAs) with a low degree of order of the β (L21) phase show excellent ductility and exhibit shape memory (SM) properties such as superelasticity, the one way memory effect and the two way memory effect based on martensitic transformation. These SM properties can be greatly enhanced by controlling microstructural factors such as grain size and texture by thermomechanical treatments. In the present paper, the SM properties of ductile Cu–Al–Mn based SMAs and microstructure control to obtain excellent SM characteristics are reviewed. Furthermore, an example of the application of Cu–Al–Mn based SMAs to a guidewire for medical use is also presented.
Innovation in producing crane rail fishplate using Fe–Mn–Si–Cr based shape memory alloy
Authors: Maruyama T. , Kurita T. , Kozaki S. , Andou K. , Farjami S. , Kubo H.
Published: September 2008

An Fe–Mn–Si–Cr shape memory alloy is applied to make crane rail fishplates. The shape recovery of the reverse martensite transformation from hcp to fcc is utilised to connect finite lengths of rail. Rails connected by normal steel fishplates gradually become separated at the joint and can be damaged by broken flakes in the gap and dents during heavy duty operation of the crane. To eliminate such problems, a sufficient and controlled compressive stress is required at the joint to resist the stress responsible for creating the gap. A quantitative estimate of the load required to separate the joint has been made to calibrate the compressive stress yielded by the reverse martensite transformation of fishplates. An innovative joining technique that ensures adequate and controlled compressive stress at the joined parts has been developed using a Fe–Mn–Si–Cr shape memory alloy together with sophisticated materials design and installation techniques.
Relaxation mechanisms in martensitic NiTi(Cu): Internal friction measurements correlated to in situ TEM straining
Authors: Parlinska-Wojtan M. , Schäublin R. , Gotthardt R.
Published: September 2008

The microstructural origin of the internal friction response in B19’ martensitic NiTiCu polycrystals is investigated by in situ TEM straining experiments. Internal friction measurements showed that the transient contribution QTr−1, determined as a function of temperature in martensitic state, vanishes when the heating or cooling is stopped. In situ TEM experiments evidence defects moving across the martensitic variants along the microtwin boundaries. They are identified as partial dislocations (PDs). They move under applied stress as well as under temperature gradients. In the present study a correlation between their movement and the changes of QTr−1 is proposed. The QTr−1 is found to be sensitive to the density of PDs depinned from the martensite variant boundaries. Their movement appears to be a reversible process, as when stress is released the PDs return into the variant interface and consequently QTr−1 value drops.
Electrical and field emission properties of multiwalled carbon nanotube/epoxy composites
Authors: Zhao B. , Wang J. , Chen D. , Zhang Y. F.
Published: September 2008

The electrical and field emission properties of the epoxy composites containing 0·1–1 wt-% of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNT) were studied. Conductivity measurements show that the electrical percolation threshold concentration is between 0·1 and 0·5 wt-%. The 1 wt-% filled MWNT/epoxy thick film demonstrates an excellent field emission property with a low turn-on electric field and a high emission current density.
IRF8 regulates B-cell lineage specification, commitment, and differentiation
Authors: Wang Hongsheng , Lee Chang Hoon , Qi Chenfeng , Tailor Prafullakumar , Feng Jianxun , Abbasi Sadia , Atsumi Toru , Morse Herbert C.
Published: September 2008

PU.1, IKAROS, E2A, EBF, and PAX5 comprise a transcriptional network that orchestrates B-cell lineage specification, commitment, and differentiation. Here we identify interferon regulatory factor 8 (IRF8) as another component of this complex, and show that it also modulates lineage choice by hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). IRF8 binds directly to an IRF8/Ets consensus sequence located in promoter regions of Sfpi1 and Ebf1, which encode PU.1 and EBF, respectively, and is associated with transcriptional repression of Sfpi1 and transcriptional activation of Ebf1. Bone marrows of IRF8 knockout mice (IRF8−/−) had significantly reduced numbers of pre-pro-B cells and increased numbers of myeloid cells. Although HSCs of IRF8−/− mice failed to differentiate to B220+ B-lineage cells in vitro, the defect could be rescued by transfecting HSCs with wild-type but not with a signaling-deficient IRF8 mutant. In contrast, overexpression of IRF8 in HSC-differentiated progenitor cells resulted in growth inhibition and apoptosis. We also found that IRF8 was expressed at higher levels in pre-pro-B cells than more mature B cells in wild-type mice. Together, these results indicate that IRF8 modulates lineage choice by HSCs and is part of the transcriptional network governing B-cell lineage specification, commitment, and differentiation.
Down-regulation of the forkhead transcription factor Foxp1 is required for monocyte differentiation and macrophage function
Authors: Shi Can , Sakuma Masashi , Mooroka Toshifumi , Liscoe Alison , Gao Huiyun , Croce Kevin J. , Sharma Arjun , Kaplan David , Greaves David R. , Wang Yunmei , Simon Daniel I.
Published: September 2008

Down-regulation of the forkhead transcription factor Foxp1 by integrin engagement controls monocyte differentiation in vitro. To determine whether Foxp1 plays a critical role in monocyte differentiation and macrophage functions in vivo, we generated transgenic mice (macFoxp1tg) overexpressing human FOXP1 in monocyte/macrophage lineage cells using the CD68 promoter. Circulating blood monocytes from macFoxp1tg mice have reduced expression of the receptor for macrophage colony-stimulating factor (c-Fms/M-CSFR), impaired migratory capacity, and diminished accumulation as splenic macrophages. Macrophage functions, including cytokine production, phagocytosis, and respiratory burst were globally impaired in macFoxp1tg compared with wild-type cells. Osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption activity were also attenuated in macFoxp1tg mice. In models of chemical and bacterial peritonitis, macFoxp1tg mice exhibited reduced macrophage accumulation, bacterial clearance, and survival. Enforced overexpression of c-Fms/M-CSFR reversed the cytokine production and phagocytosis defects in macFoxp1tg macrophages, indicating that repression of c-fms/M-CSFR is likely the dominant mechanism responsible for Foxp1 action in monocyte differentiation and macrophage function. Taken together, these observations identify down-regulation of Foxp1 as critical for monocyte differentiation and macrophage functions in vivo.
Rituximab combined with chemotherapy and interferon in follicular lymphoma patients: results of the GELA-GOELAMS FL2000 study
Authors: Salles Gilles , Mounier Nicolas , de Guibert Sophie , Morschhauser Franck , Doyen Chantal , Rossi Jean-François , Haioun Corinne , Brice Pauline , Mahé Béatrice , Bouabdallah Reda , Audhuy Bruno , Ferme Christophe , Dartigeas Caroline , Feugier Pierre , Sebban Catherine , Xerri Luc , Foussard Charles
Published: September 2008

The FL2000 study was undertaken to evaluate the combination of the anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab with chemotherapy plus interferon in the first-line treatment of follicular lymphoma patients with a high tumor burden. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either 12 courses of the chemotherapy regimen CHVP (cyclophosphamide, adriamycin, etoposide, and prednisolone) plus interferon-α2a (CHVP+I arm) over 18 months or 6 courses of the same chemotherapy regimen combined with 6 infusions of 375 mg/m2 rituximab and interferon for the same time period (R-CHVP+I arm). After a median follow-up of 5 years, event-free survival estimates were, respectively, 37% (95% confidence interval [CI], 29%-44%) and 53% (95% CI, 45%-60%) in the CHVP+I and R-CHVP+I arm (P = .001). Five-year overall survival estimates were not statistically different in the CHVP+I (79%; 95% CI, 72%-84%) and R-CHVP+I (84%; 95% CI, 78%-84%) arms. In a multivariate regression analysis, event-free survival was significantly influenced by both the Follicular Lymphoma International Prognostic Index score (hazard ratio = 2.08; 95% CI, 1.6%-2.8%) and the treatment arm (hazard ratio = 0.59; 95% CI, 0.44%-0.78%). With a 5-year follow-up, the combination of rituximab with CHVP+I provides superior disease control in follicular lymphoma patients despite a shorter duration of chemotherapy. This study's clinical trial was registered at the National Institutes of Health website as no. NCT00136552.
FoxO3a regulates hematopoietic homeostasis through a negative feedback pathway in conditions of stress or aging
Authors: Miyamoto Kana , Miyamoto Takeshi , Kato Reiko , Yoshimura Akihiko , Motoyama Noboru , Suda Toshio
Published: September 2008

Stress or aging of tissue-specific stem cells is considered central to the decline of tissue homeostasis in the elderly, although little is known of molecular mechanisms underlying hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) aging and stress resistance. Here, we report that mice lacking the transcription factor forkhead box O3a (FoxO3a) develop neutrophilia associated with inhibition of the up-regulation of negative regulator of cell proliferation, Sprouty-related Ena/VASP homology 1 domain-containing proteins 2 (Spred2) and AKT and ERK activation, in HSCs during hematopoietic recovery following myelosuppressive stress conditions. Compared with aged wild-type mice, more severe neutrophilia was also observed in aged Foxo3a-deficient mice. AKT and ERK activation and inhibition of Spred2 were detected in HSCs from aged FoxO3a-deficient mice. Spred2-deficient mice also developed neutrophilia during hematopoietic recovery following myelosuppressive stress, indicating that FoxO3a plays a pivotal role in maintenance, integrity, and stress resistance of HSCs through negative feedback pathways for proliferation. This will provide new insight into the hematopoietic homeostasis in conditions of aging and stress.
CX3CL1/fractalkine is released from apoptotic lymphocytes to stimulate macrophage chemotaxis
Authors: Truman Lucy A. , Ford Catriona A. , Pasikowska Marta , Pound John D. , Wilkinson Sarah J. , Dumitriu Ingrid E. , Melville Lynsey , Melrose Lauren A. , Ogden Carol Anne , Nibbs Robert , Graham Gerard , Combadiere Christophe , Gregory Christopher D.
Published: September 2008

Cells undergoing apoptosis are efficiently located and engulfed by phagocytes. The mechanisms by which macrophages, the professional scavenging phagocytes of apoptotic cells, are attracted to sites of apoptosis are poorly defined. Here we show that CX3CL1/fractalkine, a chemokine and intercellular adhesion molecule, is released rapidly from apoptotic lymphocytes, via caspase- and Bcl-2-regulated mechanisms, to attract macrophages. Effective chemotaxis of macrophages to apoptotic lymphocytes is dependent on macrophage fractalkine receptor, CX3CR1. CX3CR1 deficiency caused diminished recruitment of macrophages to germinal centers of lymphoid follicles, sites of high-rate B-cell apoptosis. These results provide the first demonstration of chemokine/chemokine-receptor activity in the navigation of macrophages toward apoptotic cells and identify a mechanism by which macrophage infiltration of tissues containing apoptotic lymphocytes is achieved.
Essential role of Rap signal in pre-TCR–mediated β-selection checkpoint in αβ T-cell development
Authors: Kometani Kohei , Moriyama Masaki , Nakashima Yasuhiro , Katayama Yoshinori , Wang Shu-Fang , Yamasaki Sho , Saito Takashi , Hattori Masakazu , Minato Nagahiro
Published: September 2008

We demonstrate that lck promoter–driven conditional expression of transgenic SPA-1, a Rap GTPase-activation protein, causes a profound defect of αβ T-cell development at the CD4/CD8 double-negative (DN) stage due to enhanced cell death without affecting γδ T-cell development. The effect was specific to the DN stage, because CD4 promoter–driven SPA-1 expression hardly affected T-cell development. Rap1A17, a dominant-negative Rap mutant, interfered with the generation of double-positive (DP) cells from Rag2−/− fetal thymocytes in vitro in the presence of anti-CD3ϵ antibody and Notch ligand. Rap GTPases were activated in a DN cell line by the expression of self-oligomerizing CD3 (CD8:CD3ϵ chimera), which substituted autonomous pre–T-cell receptor (TCR) signal, inducing CD69 expression and CD25 down-regulation. Reciprocally, expression of C3G, a Rap guanine nucleotide exchange factor, in both normal and Rag2−/− DN cells markedly enhanced Notch-dependent generation and expansion of DP cells without additional anti-CD3ϵ antibody, thus bypassing pre-TCR. Defective αβ T-cell development in the conditional SPA-1–transgenic mice was restored completely by introducing a p53−/− mutation. These results suggest that endogenous Rap GTPases downstream of pre-TCR play an essential role in rescuing pre-T cells from the p53-mediated checkpoint response, thus allowing Notch-mediated expansion and differentiation.
Adoptive transfer of allogeneic tumor-specific T cells mediates effective regression of large tumors across major histocompatibility barriers
Authors: Boni Andrea , Muranski Pawel , Cassard Lydie , Wrzesinski Claudia , Paulos Chrystal M. , Palmer Douglas C. , Gattinoni Luca , Hinrichs Christian S. , Chan Chi-Chao , Rosenberg Steven A. , Restifo Nicholas P.
Published: September 2008

Graft-versus-tumor effects can be achieved after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation in patients with malignancies of the kidney or hematopoietic system but are often accompanied by severe graft-versus-host-disease (GVHD). We sought to maximize graft-versus-tumor while minimizing GVHD using tumor-specific allogeneic effector T cells rather than open-repertoire T cells. We transferred allogeneic CD8+ pmel-1 or CD4+ TRP-1 T cells specific for the melanoma-associated antigens, glycoprotein 100 (gp100) and tyrosinase-related protein-1 (TRP-1), respectively, into B16-melanoma–bearing mice. Mice receiving a preparative regimen of nonmyeloablating (5 Gy) total body irradiation experienced the rapid rejection of tumor-specific allogeneic lymphocytes with no impact on tumor growth. However, when mice were given more intense total body irradiation conditioning regimens combined with autologous bone marrow transplantation, adoptively transferred allogeneic tumor-specific T lymphocytes persisted at detectable levels for several weeks and mediated significant regression of large, vascularized tumors. We found that the risk of GVHD was low when tumor-specific T cells were transferred and significant toxicity was observed only when substantial numbers of open repertoire allogeneic naive T cells were mixed with the tumor-specific lymphocytes. Taken together, these data indicate that the use of tumor-specific allogeneic CD8+ T cells or CD4+ can result in significant antitumor effects in the absence of measurable GVHD.
Tele-assistance in chronic respiratory failure patients: a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Vitacca M. , Bianchi L. , Guerra A. , Fracchia C. , Spanevello A. , Balbi B. , Scalvini S.
Published: September 2008

Chronic respiratory patients requiring oxygen or home mechanical ventilation experience frequent exacerbations and hospitalisations with related costs. Strict monitoring and care have been recommended. The aim of the present study was to primarily evaluate reduction in hospitalisations and, secondly, exacerbations, general practitioner (GP) calls and related cost-effectiveness of tele-assistance (TA) for these patients.

A total of 240 patients (101 with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)) were randomised to two groups: an intervention group entered a 1-yr TA programme while controls received traditional care.

No anthropometric and clinical differences were found between groups both in baseline and in mortality (18% for TA, 23% for controls). Compared with controls, the TA group experienced significantly fewer hospitalisations (-36%), urgent GP calls (-65%) and acute exacerbations (-71%). Only COPD patients, as a separate group, had fewer hospitalisations, emergency room admissions, urgent GP calls or exacerbations. Each patient referred to staff a mean±sd36±25 times. After deduction of TA costs, the average overall cost for each patient was 33% less than that for usual care.

In chronic respiratory failure patients on oxygen or home mechanical ventilation, a nurse-centred tele-assistance prevents hospitalisations while it is cost-effective. The chronic obstructive pulmonary disease group seems to have a greater advantage from tele-assistance.
SQUAT: A web tool to mine human, murine and avian SAGE data
Authors: Leyritz Johan , Schicklin Stéphane , Blachon Sylvain , Keime Céline , Robardet Céline , Boulicaut Jean-François , Besson Jérémy , Pensa Ruggero G , Gandrillon Olivier
Published: September 2008

Background

There is an increasing need in transcriptome research for gene expression data and pattern warehouses. It is of importance to integrate in these warehouses both raw transcriptomic data, as well as some properties encoded in these data, like local patterns.

Description

We have developed an application called SQUAT (SAGE Querying and Analysis Tools) which is available at:http://bsmc.insa-lyon.fr/squat/. This database gives access to both raw SAGE data and patterns mined from these data, for three species (human, mouse and chicken). This database allows to make simple queries like "In which biological situations is my favorite gene expressed?" as well as much more complex queries like: ≪what are the genes that are frequently co-over-expressed with my gene of interest in given biological situations?≫. Connections with external web databases enrich biological interpretations, and enable sophisticated queries. To illustrate the power of SQUAT, we show and analyze the results of three different queries, one of which led to a biological hypothesis that was experimentally validated.

Conclusion

SQUAT is a user-friendly information retrieval platform, which aims at bringing some of the state-of-the-art mining tools to biologists.
Onset of meiosis in the chicken embryo; evidence of a role for retinoic acid
Authors: Smith Craig A , Roeszler Kelly N , Bowles Josephine , Koopman Peter , Sinclair Andrew H
Published: September 2008

Background

Meiosis in higher vertebrates shows a dramatic sexual dimorphism: germ cells enter meiosis and arrest at prophase I during embryogenesis in females, whereas in males they enter mitotic arrest during embryogenesis and enter meiosis only after birth. Here we report the molecular analysis of meiosis onset in the chicken model and provide evidence for conserved regulation by retinoic acid.

Results

Meiosis in the chicken embryo is initiated late in embryogenesis (day 15.5), relative to gonadal sex differentiation (from day 6). Meiotic germ cells are first detectable only in female gonads from day 15.5, correlating with the expression of the meiosis marker, SCP3. Gonads isolated from day 10.5 female embryos and grown in serum-free medium could still initiate meiosis at day 16.5, suggesting that this process is controlled by an endogenous clock in the germ cells themselves, and/or that germ cells are already committed to meiosis at the time of explantation. Early commitment is supported by the analysis of chicken STRA8, a pre-meiotic marker shown to be essential for meiosis in mouse. Chicken STRA8 is expressed female-specifically from embryonic day 12.5, preceding morphological evidence of meiosis at day 15.5. Previous studies have shown that, in the mouse embryo, female-specific induction of STRA8 and meiosis are triggered by retinoic acid. A comprehensive analysis of genes regulating retinoic acid metabolism in chicken embryos reveals dynamic expression in the gonads. In particular, the retinoic acid-synthesising enzyme, RALDH2, is expressed in the left ovarian cortex at the time of STRA8 up-regulation, prior to meiosis.

Conclusion

This study presents the first molecular analysis of meiosis onset in an avian embryo. Although aspects of avian meiosis differ from that of mammals, a role for retinoic acid may be conserved.
Tracking the evolution of a cold stress associated gene family in cold tolerant grasses
Authors: Sandve Simen R , Rudi Heidi , Asp Torben , Rognli Odd Arne
Published: September 2008

Background

Grasses are adapted to a wide range of climatic conditions. Species of the subfamily Pooideae, which includes wheat, barley and important forage grasses, have evolved extreme frost tolerance. A class of ice binding proteins that inhibit ice re-crystallisation, specific to the Pooideae subfamily lineage, have been identified in perennial ryegrass and wheat, and these proteins are thought to have evolved from a leucine-rich repeat phytosulfokine receptor kinase (LRR-PSR)-like ancestor gene. Even though the ice re-crystallisation inhibition function of these proteins has been studied extensivelyin vitro, little is known about the evolution of these genes on the molecular level.

Results

We identified 15 putative novel ice re-crystallisation inhibition (IRI)-like protein coding genes in perennial ryegrass, barley, and wheat. Using synonymous divergence estimates we reconstructed the evolution of the IRI-like gene family. We also explored the hypothesis that the IRI-domain has evolved through repeated motif expansion and investigated the evolutionary relationship between a LRR-domain containing IRI coding gene in carrot and the Pooideae IRI-like genes. Our analysis showed that the main expansion of the IRI-gene family happened ~36 million years ago (Mya). In addition to IRI-like paralogs, wheat contained several sequences that likely were products of polyploidisation events (homoeologs). Through sequence analysis we identified two short motifs in the riceLRR-PSRgene highly similar to the repeat motifs of the IRI-domain in cold tolerant grasses. Finally we show that the LRR-domain of carrot and grass IRI proteins both share homology to anArabidopsis thalianaLRR-trans membrane protein kinase (LRR-TPK).

Conclusion

The diverse IRI-like genes identified in this study tell a tale of a complex evolutionary history including birth of an ice binding domain, a burst of gene duplication events after cold tolerant grasses radiated from rice, protein domain structure differentiation between paralogs, and sub- and/or neofunctionalisation of IRI-like proteins. From our sequence analysis we provide evidence for IRI-domain evolution probably occurring through increased copy number of a repeated motif. Finally, we discuss the possibility of parallel evolution of LRR domain containing IRI proteins in carrot and grasses through two completely different molecular adaptations.
Gene expression profiling in hepatic tissue of newly weaned pigs fed pharmacological zinc and phytase supplemented diets
Authors: Martínez-Montemayor Michelle M , Hill Gretchen M , Raney Nancy E , Rilington Valencia D , Tempelman Robert J , Link Jane E , Wilkinson Christopher P , Ramos Antonio M , Ernst Catherine W
Published: September 2008

Background

Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace element. However, Zn bioavailability from commonly consumed plants may be reduced due to phytic acid. Zn supplementation has been used to treat diarrheal disease in children, and in the U.S. swine industry at pharmacological levels to promote growth and fecal consistency, but underlying mechanisms explaining these beneficial effects remain unknown. Moreover, adding supplemental phytase improves Zn bioavailability. Thus, we hypothesized that benefits of pharmacological Zn supplementation result from changes in gene expression that could be further affected by supplemental phytase. The goal of this study was to investigate the effects of feeding newly weaned pigs dietary Zn (150, 1,000, or 2,000 mg Zn/kg) as Zn oxide with or without phytase [500 phytase units (FTU)/kg] for 14 d on hepatic gene expression. Liver RNA from pigs fed 150, 1,000, or 2,000 mg Zn/kg, or 1,000 mg Zn/kg with phytase (n = 4 per treatment) was reverse transcribed and examined using the differential display reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction technique. Liver RNA from pigs fed 150 or 2,000 mg Zn/kg (n = 4 per treatment) was also evaluated using a 70-mer oligonucleotide microarray.

Results

Expressed sequence tags for 61 putatively differentially expressed transcripts were cloned and sequenced. In addition, interrogation of a 13,297 element oligonucleotide microarray revealed 650 annotated transcripts (FDR ≤ 0.05) affected by pharmacological Zn supplementation. Seven transcripts exhibiting differential expression in pigs fed pharmacological Zn with sequence similarities to genes encoding GLO1, PRDX4, ACY1, ORM1, CPB2, GSTM4, and HSP70.2 were selected for confirmation. Relative hepatic GLO1 (P < 0.0007), PRDX4 (P < 0.009) and ACY1 (P < 0.01) mRNA abundances were confirmed to be greater in pigs fed 1,000 (n = 8) and 2,000 (n = 8) mg Zn/kg than in pigs fed 150 (n = 7) mg Zn/kg. Relative hepatic HSP70.2 (P < 0.002) mRNA abundance was confirmed to be lower in pigs fed 2,000 mg Zn/kg than in pigs fed 150 or 1,000 mg Zn/kg.

Conclusion

Results suggest that feeding pharmacological Zn (1,000 or 2,000 mg Zn/kg) affects genes involved in reducing oxidative stress and in amino acid metabolism, which are essential for cell detoxification and proper cell function.
Development of genomic resources for Citrus clementina: Characterization of three deep-coverage BAC libraries and analysis of 46,000 BAC end sequences
Authors: Terol Javier , Naranjo M Angel , Ollitrault Patrick , Talon Manuel
Published: September 2008

Background

Citrus species constitute one of the major tree fruit crops of the subtropical regions with great economic importance. However, their peculiar reproductive characteristics, low genetic diversity and the long-term nature of tree breeding mostly impair citrus variety improvement. In woody plants, genomic science holds promise of improvements and in theCitrusgenera the development of genomic tools may be crucial for further crop improvements. In this work we report the characterization of three BAC libraries from Clementine (Citrus clementina), one of the most relevant citrus fresh fruit market cultivars, and the analyses of 46.000 BAC end sequences. Clementine is a diploid plant with an estimated haploid genome size of 367 Mb and 2n = 18 chromosomes, which makes feasible the use of genomics tools to boost genetic improvement.

Results

Three genomic BAC libraries ofCitrus clementinawere constructed throughEcoRI,MboI andHindIII digestions and 56,000 clones, representing an estimated genomic coverage of 19.5 haploid genome-equivalents, were picked. BAC end sequencing (BES) of 28,000 clones produced 28.1 Mb of genomic sequence that allowed the identification of the repetitive fraction (12.5% of the genome) and estimation of gene content (31,000 genes) of this species. BES analyses identified 3,800 SSRs and 6,617 putative SNPs. Comparative genomic studies showed that citrus gene homology and microsyntheny withPopulus trichocarpawas rather higher than withArabidopsis thaliana, a species phylogenetically closer to citrus.

Conclusion

In this work, we report the characterization of three BAC libraries fromC. clementina, and a new set of genomic resources that may be useful for isolation of genes underlying economically important traits, physical mapping and eventually crop improvement inCitrusspecies. In addition, BAC end sequencing has provided a first insight on the basic structure and organization of the citrus genome and has yielded valuable molecular markers for genetic mapping and cloning of genes of agricultural interest. Paired end sequences also may be very helpful for whole-genome sequencing programs.
Global identification of bursicon-regulated genes in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: An Shiheng , Wang Songjie , Gilbert Lawrence I , Beerntsen Brenda , Ellersieck Mark , Song Qisheng
Published: September 2008

Background

Bursicon is a heterodimer neuropeptide responsible for regulating cuticle sclerotization and wing expansion in several insect species. Recent studies indicate that the action of bursicon is mediated by a specific G protein-coupled receptor DLGR2 and the cAMP/PKA signaling pathway. However, little is known regarding the genes that are regulated by bursicon. The identification of bursicon-regulated genes is the focus of this investigation.

Results

We used DNA microarray analysis to identify bursicon-regulated genes in neck-ligated flies (Drosophila melanogaster)that received recombinant bursicon (r-bursicon). Fifty four genes were found to be regulated by bursicon 1 h post r-bursicon injection, 52 being up-regulated and 2 down-regulated while 33 genes were influenced by r-bursicon 3 h post-injection (24 up-regulated and 9 down-regulated genes). Analysis of these genes by inference from the fly databasehttp://flybase.bio.indiana.edurevealed that these genes encode proteins with diverse functions, including cell signaling, gene transcription, DNA/RNA binding, ion trafficking, proteolysis-peptidolysis, metabolism, cytoskeleton formation, immune response and cell-adhesion. Twenty eight genes randomly selected from the microarray-identified list were verified by real time PCR (qPCR) which supported the microarray data. Temporal response studies of 13 identified and verified genes by qPCR revealed that the temporal expression patterns of these genes are consistent with the microarray data.

Conclusion

Using r-bursicon, we identified 87 genes that are regulated by bursicon, 30 of which have no previously known function. Most importantly, all genes randomly selected from the microarray-identified list were verified by real time PCR. Temporal analysis of 13 verified genes revealed that the expression of these genes was indeed induced by bursicon and correlated well with the cuticle sclerotization process. The composite data suggest that these genes play important roles in regulating the cuticle sclerotization and wing expansion processes. The data obtained here will form the basis for future studies aimed at elucidating the exact mechanisms upstream from the secretion of bursicon and its binding to target cells.
A factor analytic investigation of the Tripartite model of affect in a clinical sample of young Australians
Authors: Buckby Joe A , Cotton Sue M , Cosgrave Elizabeth M , Killackey Eoin J , Yung Alison R
Published: September 2008

Background

The Mood and Anxiety Symptom Questionnaire (MASQ) was designed to specifically measure the Tripartite model of affect and is proposed to offer a delineation between the core components of anxiety and depression. Factor analytic data from adult clinical samples has shown mixed results; however no studies employing confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) have supported the predicted structure of distinct Depression, Anxiety and General Distress factors. The Tripartite model has not been validated in a clinical sample of older adolescents and young adults. The aim of the present study was to examine the validity of the Tripartite model using scale-level data from the MASQ and correlational and confirmatory factor analysis techniques.

Methods

137 young people (M = 17.78, SD = 2.63) referred to a specialist mental health service for adolescents and young adults completed the MASQ and diagnostic interview.

Results

All MASQ scales were highly inter-correlated, with the lowest correlation between the depression- and anxiety-specific scales (r = .59). This pattern of correlations was observed for all participants rating for an Axis-I disorder but not for participants without a current disorder (r = .18). Confirmatory factor analyses were conducted to evaluate the model fit of a number of solutions. The predicted Tripartite structure was not supported. A 2-factor model demonstrated superior model fit and parsimony compared to 1- or 3-factor models. These broad factors represented Depression and Anxiety and were highly correlated (r = .88).

Conclusion

The present data lend support to the notion that the Tripartite model does not adequately explain the relationship between anxiety and depression in all clinical populations. Indeed, in the present study this model was found to be inappropriate for a help-seeking community sample of older adolescents and young adults.
Shewanella oneidensis: a new and efficient System for Expression and Maturation of heterologous [Fe-Fe] Hydrogenase from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Sybirna Kateryna , Antoine Tatiana , Lindberg Pia , Fourmond Vincent , Rousset Marc , Méjean Vincent , Bottin Hervé
Published: September 2008

Background

The eukaryotic green alga, Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, produces H2 under anaerobic conditions, in a reaction catalysed by a [Fe-Fe] hydrogenase HydA1. For further biochemical and biophysical studies a suitable expression system of this enzyme should be found to overcome its weak expression in the host organism. Two heterologous expression systems used up to now have several advantages. However they are not free from some drawbacks. In this work we use bacterium Shewanella oneidensis as a new and efficient system for expression and maturation of HydA1 from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii.

Results

Based on codon usage bias and hydrogenase maturation ability, the bacterium S. oneidensis, which possesses putative [Fe-Fe] and [Ni-Fe] hydrogenase operons, was selected as the best potential host for C. reinhardtii [Fe-Fe] hydrogenase expression. Hydrogen formation by S. oneidensis strain AS52 (ΔhydAΔhyaB) transformed with a plasmid bearing CrHydA1 and grown in the presence of six different substrates for anaerobic respiration was determined. A significant increase in hydrogen evolution was observed for cells grown in the presence of trimethylamine oxide, dimethylsulfoxide and disodium thiosulfate, showing that the system of S. oneidensis is efficient for heterologous expression of algal [Fe-Fe] hydrogenase.

Conclusion

In the present work a new efficient system for heterologous expression and maturation of C. reinhardtii hydrogenase has been developed. HydA1 of C. reinhardtii was purified and shown to contain 6 Fe atoms/molecule of protein, as expected. Using DMSO, TMAO or thiosulfate as substrates for anaerobic respiration during the cell growth, 0.4 – 0.5 mg l-1(OD600 = 1) of catalytically active HydA1 was obtained with hydrogen evolution rate of ~700 μmol H2 mg-1 min-1.
Patient satisfaction and side effects in primary care: An observational study comparing homeopathy and conventional medicine
Authors: Marian Florica , Joost Kerstin , Saini Krishan D , von Ammon Klaus , Thurneysen André , Busato André
Published: September 2008

Background

This study is part of a nationwide evaluation of complementary medicine in Switzerland (Programme Evaluation of Complementary Medicine PEK) and was funded by the Swiss Federal Office of Public Health. The main objective of this study is to investigate patient satisfaction and perception of side effects in homeopathy compared with conventional care in a primary care setting.

Methods

We examined data from two cross-sectional studies conducted in 2002–2003. The first study was a physician questionnaire assessing structural characteristics of practices. The second study was conducted on four given days during a 12-month period in 2002/2003 using a physician and patient questionnaire at consultation and a patient questionnaire mailed to the patient one month later (including Europep questionnaire).

The participating physicians were all trained and licensed in conventional medicine. An additional qualification was required for medical doctors providing homeopathy (membership in the Swiss association of homeopathic physicians SVHA).

Results

A total of 6778 adult patients received the questionnaire and 3126 responded (46.1%). Statistically significant differences were found with respect to health status (higher percentage of chronic and severe conditions in the homeopathic group), perception of side effects (higher percentage of reported side effects in the conventional group) and patient satisfaction (higher percentage of satisfied patients in the homeopathic group).

Conclusion

Overall patient satisfaction was significantly higher in homeopathic than in conventional care. Homeopathic treatments were perceived as a low-risk therapy with two to three times fewer side effects than conventional care
Metabolic syndrome according to different definitions in a rapidly developing country of the African region
Authors: Kelliny Clara , William Julita , Riesen Walter , Paccaud Fred , Bovet Pascal
Published: September 2008

Aims

We examined, in a country of the African region, i) the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) according to three definitions (ATP, WHO and IDF); ii) the distribution of the MetS criteria; iii) the level of agreement between these three definitions and iv) we also examined these issues upon exclusion of people with diabetes.

Methods

We conducted an examination survey on a sample representative of the general population aged 25–64 years in the Seychelles (Indian Ocean, African region), attended by 1255 participants (participation rate of 80.3%).

Results

The prevalence of MetS increased markedly with age. According to the ATP, WHO and IDF definitions, the prevalence of MetS was, respectively, 24.0%, 25.0%, 25.1% in men and 32.2%, 24.6%, 35.4% in women. Approximately 80% of participants with diabetes also had MetS and the prevalence of MetS was approximately 7% lower upon exclusion of diabetic individuals. High blood pressure and adiposity were the criteria found most frequently among MetS holders irrespective of the MetS definitions. Among people with MetS based on any of the three definitions, 78% met both ATP and IDF criteria, 67% both WHO and IDF criteria, 54% both WHO and ATP criteria and only 37% met all three definitions.

Conclusion

We identified a high prevalence of MetS in this population in epidemiological transition. The prevalence of MetS decreased by approximately 32% upon exclusion of persons with diabetes. Because of limited agreement between the MetS definitions, the fairly similar proportions of MetS based on any of the three MetS definitions classified, to a substantial extent, different subjects as having MetS.
Significant improvements in self-reported gastrointestinal tolerability, quality of life, patient satisfaction, and adherence with lopinavir/ritonavir tablet formulation compared with soft gel capsules
Authors: Schrader Shannon , Chuck Susan K , Rahn Laurie W , Parekh Paras , Emrich Katherine G
Published: September 2008

Background

The tablet formulation of ritonavir-boosted lopinavir (LPV/r; Kaletra®) has many advantages over the soft gel capsule (SGC) formulation, including lower pill count, no refrigeration requirement, and no dietary restrictions. These advantages may help improve patient compliance and therefore increase adherence to treatment. However, there are limited data regarding patient preferences and only recently was the comparative efficacy and tolerability data of LPV/r SGC versus tablet formulation presented at an international conference. To address this deficit, we conducted a market research survey to assess potential tolerability benefits, patient satisfaction, changes in adherence, and formulation preference in patients switching from SGCs to the tablet formulation. Data from 332 patients who switched from LPV/r SGCs twice-daily (BID) to tablets BID and 41 patients who switched from LPV/r SGCs BID or once daily (QD) to tablets QD were analyzed.

Results

Switching from SGCs to a tablet formulation of LPV/r was associated with increased patient satisfaction, tolerability and self-reported adherence to treatment; gastrointestinal side effects were reduced. In addition, respondents indicated that they preferred the tablet formulation to the SGC.

Conclusion

The LPV/r tablet formulation provides HIV-infected patients with multiple benefits over the SGC in terms of tolerability and convenience. Additional assessments to further define the tolerability profile of the LPV/r tablet, including studies using once-daily dosing, are warranted.
Does neuregulin-1 play a role in Type A behavior? The cardiovascular risk in young Finns study
Authors: Service Helena M , Hintsanen Mirka , Hintsa Taina , Lehtimäki Terho , Raitakari Olli T , Viikari Jorma S , Keltikangas-Järvinen Liisa
Published: September 2008

Background

Neuregulin-1 proteins are related to physiological correlates of Type A in terms of cardiac reactivity. Furthermore, neuregulin-1 gene (NRG1) may play a role in cardiovascular disease such as atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease i.e. the suggested "outcomes" of Type A behavior. Therefore, NRG1 is hypothesized to be associated with Type A behavior.

Methods

The study examined whether Type A behavior pattern is associated with the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) SNP8NRG221533 of the NRG1. The subjects were 631 men and women participating in the population-based Cardiovascular Risk in Young Finns study in 1992 and 2001. Type A was self-assessed with the Framingham Type A Scale and reassessed nine years later.

Results

Type A was associated with NRG1 genotype. Carriers of genotype CC scored lower on Type A compared to the others.

Conclusion

Our study has pinpointed a SNP in NRG1 that predicts Type A behavior. As previous evidence suggests an association for NRG1 with beta-adrenergic stimulation, its role underlying Type A is discussed.
On the neural networks of empathy: A principal component analysis of an fMRI study
Authors: Nomi Jason S , Scherfeld Dag , Friederichs Skara , Schäfer Ralf , Franz Matthias , Wittsack Hans-Jörg , Azari Nina P , Missimer John , Seitz Rüdiger J
Published: September 2008

Background

Human emotional expressions serve an important communicatory role allowing the rapid transmission of valence information among individuals. We aimed at exploring the neural networks mediating the recognition of and empathy with human facial expressions of emotion.

Methods

A principal component analysis was applied to event-related functional magnetic imaging (fMRI) data of 14 right-handed healthy volunteers (29 +/- 6 years). During scanning, subjects viewed happy, sad and neutral face expressions in the following conditions: emotion recognition, empathizing with emotion, and a control condition of simple object detection. Functionally relevant principal components (PCs) were identified by planned comparisons at an alpha level of p < 0.001.

Results

Four PCs revealed significant differences in variance patterns of the conditions, thereby revealing distinct neural networks: mediating facial identification (PC 1), identification of an expressed emotion (PC 2), attention to an expressed emotion (PC 12), and sense of an emotional state (PC 27).

Conclusion

Our findings further the notion that the appraisal of human facial expressions involves multiple neural circuits that process highly differentiated cognitive aspects of emotion.
Recent advances in the investigation of curcuminoids
Authors: Itokawa Hideji , Shi Qian , Akiyama Toshiyuki , Morris-Natschke Susan L , Lee Kuo-Hsiung
Published: September 2008

More than 30 Curcuma species (Zingiberaceae) are found in Asia, where the rhizomes of these plants are used as both food and medicine, such as in traditional Chinese medicine. The plants are usually aromatic and carminative, and are used to treat indigestion, hepatitis, jaundice, diabetes, atherosclerosis and bacterial infections. Among the Curcuma species, C. longa, C. aromatica and C. xanthorrhiza are popular. The main constituents of Curcuma species are curcuminoids and bisabolane-type sesquiterpenes. Curcumin is the most important constituent among natural curcuminoids found in these plants. Published research has described the biological effects and chemistry of curcumin. Curcumin derivatives have been evaluated for bioactivity and structure-activity relationships (SAR). In this article, we review the literature between 1976 and mid-2008 on the anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-HIV, chemopreventive and anti-prostate cancer effects of curcuminoids. Recent studies on curcuminoids, particularly on curcumin, have discovered not only much on the therapeutic activities, but also on mechanisms of molecular biological action and major genomic effects.
Absence of Wolbachia endobacteria in the non-filariid nematodes Angiostrongylus cantonensis and A. costaricensis
Authors: Foster Jeremy M , Kumar Sanjay , Ford Louise , Johnston Kelly L , Ben Renata , Graeff-Teixeira Carlos , Taylor Mark J
Published: September 2008

The majority of filarial nematodes harbour Wolbachia endobacteria, including the major pathogenic species in humans, Onchocerca volvulus, Brugia malayi and Wuchereria bancrofti. These obligate endosymbionts have never been demonstrated unequivocally in any non-filariid nematode. However, a recent report described the detection by PCR of Wolbachia in the metastrongylid nematode, Angiostrongylus cantonensis (rat lungworm), a leading cause of eosinophilic meningitis in humans. To address the intriguing possibility of Wolbachia infection in nematode species distinct from the Family Onchocercidae, we used both PCR and immunohistochemistry to screen samples of A. cantonensis and A. costaricensis for the presence of this endosymbiont. We were unable to detect Wolbachia in either species using these methodologies. In addition, bioinformatic and phylogenetic analyses of the Wolbachia gene sequences reported previously from A. cantonensis indicate that they most likely result from contamination with DNA from arthropods and filarial nematodes. This study demonstrates the need for caution in relying solely on PCR for identification of new endosymbiont strains from invertebrate DNA samples.