bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Analysis of Avian Influenza Virus Diversity in Poultry and Humans during a Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A (H7N7) Virus Outbreak
Authors: Jonges Marcel , Bataille Arnaud , Enserink Remko , Meijer Adam , Fouchier Ron A. M. , Stegeman Arjan , Koch Guus , Koopmans Marion
Published: August 2011

Although increasing data have become available that link human adaptation with specific molecular changes in nonhuman influenza viruses, the molecular changes of these viruses during a large highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAI) outbreak in poultry along with avian-to-human transmission have never been documented. By comprehensive virologic analysis of combined veterinary and human samples obtained during a large HPAI A (H7N7) outbreak in the Netherlands in 2003, we mapped the acquisition of human adaptation markers to identify the public health risk associated with an HPAI outbreak in poultry. Full-length hemagglutinin (HA), neuraminidase (NA), and PB2 sequencing of A (H7N7) viruses obtained from 45 human cases showed amino acid variations at different codons in HA (
n
=20), NA (
n
=23), and PB2 (
n
=23). Identification of the avian sources of human virus infections based on 232 farm sequences demonstrated that for each gene about 50% of the variation was already present in poultry. Polygenic accumulation and farm-to-farm spread of known virulence and human adaptation markers in A (H7N7) virus-infected poultry occurred prior to farm-to-human transmission. These include the independent emergence of HA A143T mutants, accumulation of four NA mutations, and farm-to-farm spread of virus variants harboring mammalian host determinants D701N and S714I in PB2. This implies that HPAI viruses with pandemic potential can emerge directly from poultry. Since the public health risk of an avian influenza virus outbreak in poultry can rapidly change, we recommend virologic monitoring for human adaptation markers among poultry as well as among humans during the course of an outbreak in poultry.
Molecular Epidemiology of Human Coronavirus OC43 Reveals Evolution of Different Genotypes over Time and Recent Emergence of a Novel Genotype due to Natural Recombination
Authors: Lau Susanna K. P. , Lee Paul , Tsang Alan K. L. , Yip Cyril C. Y. , Tse Herman , Lee Rodney A. , So Lok-Yee , Lau Yu-Lung , Chan Kwok-Hung , Woo Patrick C. Y. , Yuen Kwok-Yung
Published: August 2011

Although human coronavirus OC43-OC43 (HCoV-OC43) is the coronavirus most commonly associated with human infections, little is known about its molecular epidemiology and evolution. We conducted a molecular epidemiology study to investigate different genotypes and potential recombination in HCoV-OC43. Twenty-nine HCoV-OC43 strains from nasopharyngeal aspirates, collected from 2004 to 2011, were subjected to RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), spike, and nucleocapsid gene analysis. Phylogenetic analysis showed at least three distinct clusters of HCoV-OC43, although 10 unusual strains displayed incongruent phylogenetic positions between RdRp and spike genes. This suggested the presence of four HCoV-OC43 genotypes (A to D), with genotype D most likely arising from recombination. The complete genome sequencing of two genotype C and D strains and bootscan analysis showed recombination events between genotypes B and C in the generation of genotype D. Of the 29 strains, none belonged to the more ancient genotype A, 5 from 2004 belonged to genotype B, 15 from 2004 to 2006 belonged to genotype C, and 1 from 2004 and all 8 from 2008 to 2011 belonged to the recombinant genotype D. Molecular clock analysis using spike and nucleocapsid genes dated the most recent common ancestor of all genotypes to the 1950s, genotype B and C to the 1980s, genotype B to the 1990s, and genotype C to the late 1990s to early 2000s, while the recombinant genotype D strains were detected as early as 2004. This represents the first study to describe natural recombination in HCoV-OC43 and the evolution of different genotypes over time, leading to the emergence of novel genotype D, which is associated with pneumonia in our elderly population.
Upregulation of BST-2/Tetherin by HIV Infection
In Vivo
Authors: Homann Stefanie , Smith Davey , Little Susan , Richman Douglas , Guatelli John
Published: August 2011

The interferon-inducible antiviral factor BST-2 prevents several enveloped viruses, including HIV, from escaping infected cells. The HIV protein Vpu antagonizes this host defense. Little is known about the expression of BST-2 during HIV infection
in vivo
and whether it can be modulated to the host's advantage. We studied the expression of BST-2 on blood cells from HIV-infected patients during the acute and chronic phases of disease as well as after antiretroviral treatment (ART). The expression of BST-2 was increased on mononuclear leukocytes, including CD4-positive T lymphocytes from HIV-positive patients, compared to that on cells of uninfected controls. The expression of BST-2 was highest during acute infection and decreased to levels similar to those of uninfected individuals after ART. Treatment of primary blood mononuclear cells
in vitro
with alpha interferon or with Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists increased the expression of BST-2 to levels similar to those found during infection
in vivo
. The interferon-induced levels were sufficient to overcome the Vpu protein
in vitro
, reducing the release of wild-type HIV. These data show that BST-2 is upregulated during HIV infection, consistent with its role as an interferon-stimulated gene. The data further suggest that this upregulation is sufficient to saturate the activity of Vpu and inhibit wild-type HIV.
A Panel of IgG1 b12 Variants with Selectively Diminished or Enhanced Affinity for Fcγ Receptors To Define the Role of Effector Functions in Protection against HIV
Authors: Moldt Brian , Schultz Niccole , Dunlop D. Cameron , Alpert Michael D. , Harvey Jackson D. , Evans David T. , Poignard Pascal , Hessell Ann J. , Burton Dennis R.
Published: August 2011

Passive transfer of neutralizing antibodies is effective in protecting rhesus macaques against simian/human immunodeficiency virus (SHIV) challenge. In addition to neutralization, effector functions of the crystallizable fragment (Fc) of antibodies are involved in antibody-mediated protection against a number of viruses. We recently showed that interaction between the Fc fragment of the broadly neutralizing antibody IgG1 b12 and cellular Fcγ receptors (FcγRs) plays an important role in protection against SHIV infection in rhesus macaques. The specific nature of this Fc-dependent protection is largely unknown. To investigate, we generated a panel of 11 IgG1 b12 antibody variants with selectively diminished or enhanced affinity for the two main activating FcγRs, FcγRIIa and FcγRIIIa. All 11 antibody variants bind gp120 and neutralize virus as effectively as does wild-type b12. Binding studies using monomeric (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA] and surface plasmon resonance [SPR]) and cellularly expressed Fcγ receptors show decreased (up to 5-fold) and increased (up to 90-fold) binding to FcγRIIa and FcγRIIIa with this newly generated panel of antibodies. In addition, there was generally a good correlation between b12 variant affinity for Fcγ receptor and variant function in antibody-dependent cell-mediated virus inhibition (ADCVI), phagocytosis, NK cell activation assays, and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) assays. In future studies, these b12 variants will enable the investigation of the protective role of individual FcγRs in HIV infection.
Norovirus RNA-Dependent RNA Polymerase Is Phosphorylated by an Important Survival Kinase, Akt
Authors: Eden John-Sebastian , Sharpe Laura J. , White Peter A. , Brown Andrew J.
Published: August 2011

Viruses commonly use host cell survival mechanisms to their own advantage. We show that Akt, an important signaling kinase involved in cell survival, phosphorylates the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) from norovirus, the major cause of gastroenteritis outbreaks worldwide. The Akt phosphorylation of RdRp appears to be a feature unique to the more prevalent norovirus genotypes such as GII.4 and GII.b. This phosphorylation event occurs at a residue (Thr33) located at the interface where the RdRp finger and thumb domains interact and decreasesde novoactivity of the polymerase. This finding provides fresh insights into virus-host cell interactions.
Compensation by the E138K Mutation in HIV-1 Reverse Transcriptase for Deficits in Viral Replication Capacity and Enzyme Processivity Associated with the M184I/V Mutations
Authors: Xu Hong-Tao , Asahchop Eugene L. , Oliveira Maureen , Quashie Peter K. , Quan Yudong , Brenner Bluma G. , Wainberg Mark A.
Published: August 2011

Recently, several phase 3 clinical trials (ECHO and THRIVE) showed that E138K and M184I were the most frequent mutations to emerge in patients who failed therapy with rilpivirine (RPV) together with two nucleos(t)ide reverse transcriptase inhibitors, emtricitabine (FTC) and tenofovir (TDF). To investigate the basis for the copresence of E138K and M184I, we generated recombinant mutated and wild-type (WT) reverse transcriptase (RT) enzymes and HIV-1NL4-3infectious clones. Drug susceptibilities were determined in cord blood mononuclear cells (CBMCs). Structural modeling was performed to analyze any impact on deoxynucleoside triphosphate (dNTP) binding. The results of phenotyping showed that viruses containing both the E138K and M184V mutations were more resistant to each of FTC, 3TC, and ETR than viruses containing E138K and M184I. Viruses with E138K displayed only modest resistance to ETR, little resistance to efavirenz (EFV), and no resistance to either FTC or 3TC. E138K restored viral replication capacity (RC) in the presence of M184I/V, and this was confirmed in cell-free RT processivity assays. RT enzymes containing E138K, E138K/184I, or E138K/184V exhibited higher processivity than WT RT at low dNTP concentrations. Steady-state kinetic analysis demonstrated that the E138K mutation resulted in decreasedKms for dNTPs. In contrast, M184I/V resulted in an increasedKmfor dNTPs compared to those for WT RT. These results indicate that the E138K mutation compensates for both the deficit in dNTP usage and impairment in replication capacity by M184I/V. Structural modeling shows that the addition of E138K to M184I/V promotes tighter dNTP binding.
Effects of job strain on fatigue: cross-sectional and prospective views of the job content questionnaire and effort–reward imbalance in the GAZEL cohort
Authors: Sembajwe Grace , Wahrendorf Morten , Siegrist Johannes , Sitta Remi , Zins Marie , Goldberg Marcel , Berkman Lisa
Published: August 2011

Objectives

The objectives this study were (1) to investigate correlations between measures of psychosocial workplace stress as measured in separate years by the Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ) and Effort–Reward Imbalance (ERI) scales; (2) to establish a valid measure of psychosocial job stress with its components (by identifying the individual and interactive associations of job stress components) and (3) to use the component measures to assess the risk of psychosocial strain at work on fatigue.

Methods

The JCQ and ERI from the annual survey of the GAZEL cohort established in 1989 initially with 20 624 respondents were used to investigate the associations of workplace stress on mental and physical fatigue in two separate years (1998 and 2006). First, the JCQ measures from separate years (1997 and 1999) were combined to create a measure for the same year as ERI (1998). The new measure was validated for internal and external consistency. Using logistic regression, the subcomponents of stress (upper tertiles of psychological demands, physical demands, decision latitude, social support, effort, reward, ERI and overcommitment) were tested for associations with the highest reporting of mental and physical fatigue.

Results

By combining JCQ responses from 1997 to 1999, we were able to increase the amount of information available on psychosocial factors in 1998. Psychometric properties of the workplace stress scales also showed expected factor loadings. Workplace psychosocial factors had greater associations with fatigue among men than women. Although psychosocial factors became less predictive of fatigue at 8 years of follow-up, associations between fatigue and psychosocial components (overcommitment, social support and rewards) remained significant.

Conclusions

These analyses continue to validate the various subcomponents scales of workplace stress as measured by the JCQ and effort–reward imbalance model in GAZEL. They also highlight the importance of psychosocial work factors in the experience of overall fatigue even after an 8-year follow-up.
NMR and MS study of the formation of β-d-glucopyranosylamine uronic acid in aqueous solution
Authors: Ghadban Ali , Albertin Luca , Condamine Eric , Mounguengui Rédéo W. Moussavou , Heyraud Alain
Published: August 2011

The products of the reaction of d-glucuronic acid with various combinations of ammonia and volatile ammonium salts in water were studied by NMR and MS spectroscopy. For long reaction times (~24 h), the expected products β-d-glucopyranosylamine uronic acid and ammonium N-(β-d-glucopyranosyluronic acid)carbamate were obtained in good-to-high yield, whereas seven intermediate species were identified in samples taken at earlier reaction times. 1H–1H homonuclear and 1H–13C heteronuclear correlation experiments enabled a complete assignment of the 1H and 13C NMR spectra of the starting and final compounds, and a partial assignment of the peaks of intermediate species. Based on these results, a 1H NMR protocol for the quantification of the different compounds taking part in the reaction was developed, which was used to monitor the evolution of the composition of an early reaction sample redissolved in D2O. It was thus established that two of the observed intermediate species are actually the α anomer of the main products, whereas the others are precursors to the formation of α/β-d-glucopyranosylamine uronic acid and ammonium N-(α/β-d-glucopyranosyluronic acid)carbamate. The correct assignments for the 1H and 13C spectra of d-glucuronic acid in D2O are also reported.
3,3′-N,N′-Bis(amino)-2,2′-bipyridine — An unusually methylation-resistant amine
Authors: Chisholm Danielle M. , McDonald Robert , McIndoe J. Scott
Published: August 2011

Methylation of aromatic amino groups is usually straightforward, but the formation of two intramolecular hydrogen bonds in 3,3′-N,N′-bis(amino)-2,2′-bipyridine and (or) the potential for ring methylation prevents the clean tetramethylation of this molecule. Numerous attempts to make 3,3′-N,N′-bis(dimethylamino)-2,2′-bipyridine produced only complex mixtures of variously methylated products, and the only isolated molecule was 3,3′-N,N′-bis(methylamino)-2,2′-bipyridine, for which an X-ray crystal structure was obtained.
Synthesis of a glycodendrimer incorporating multiple mannosides on a glucoside core
Authors: Wang Chao , Sanders Brian , Baker David C.
Published: August 2011

The synthesis of a glycodendrimer by incorporating repetitive mannoside units onto a glucoside core was carried out to multivalently probe fundamental carbohydrate–protein interactions. The dendritic structure was constructed by a modified procedure that utilized multiple glycosylations between a thioether glycosyl donor and five elongated spacer arms of a glycosyl acceptor. The completed dendrimer bears a full carbohydrate structure, and thus should find its potential application in the study of mannose–lectin interactions.
Preparation and photocatalytic activity of TiO2 nanocomposites coated with monolayer-protected gold clusters
Authors: Amaratunga Piyadarsha , Lee Myeongsoon , Kim Junhyung , Lee Dongil
Published: August 2011

We report the preparation and photocatalytic activity of TiO2 nanocomposites modified with monolayer-protected gold clusters (MPCs). Highly monodisperse tiopronin-coated MPCs with core diameters of 2.2 ± 0.2 nm were pre-prepared and then anchored onto a TiO2 surface using the bifunctional tiopronin linker. In this method, the gold core size was preserved after calcination at 260 °C as well as the anchoring process, and the gold loading on TiO2 could be precisely controlled by the experimental condition. The photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine 590 (Rh-590) was carried out with thus prepared MPC–TiO2 composites. Mechanistic study of the photocatalytic reactions revealed that the degradation of Rh-590 occurs via the oxidative pathway by photogenerated holes. The photocatalytic activity of the MPC–TiO2 composites was found to increase significantly upon calcination at 260 °C, whereas the size of gold particles remained at their initial size. The photocatalytic activity of the composites, however, drastically decreased when the composites were calcined at 400 °C. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis of the calcined composites was conducted to understand the vastly different calcination results. A significant amount of oxidized sulfur remained in the composites after calcination at 400 °C, which appears to be responsible for the drastic decrease in the photocatalytic activity.
Automated analysis of synthesized oligorutin and oligoesculin by laccase
Authors: Anthoni Julie , Chebil Latifa , Lionneton Frederic , Magdalou Jacques , Humeau Catherine , Ghoul Mohamed
Published: August 2011

The polymerization of phenolic species is an interesting way to generate derivatives with new or improved properties. The structural analysis of these compounds is complex and requires specific analytical techniques. The size exclusion chromatography coupled with an UV detector (SEC-UV) and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization coupled with a time-of-flight detector (MALDI-TOF) analyses are two methods used to investigate the masses of biopolymers. To analyse the oligomers of rutin and esculin synthesized by the laccase from Trametes versicolor , these two techniques were used and coupled with an automated platform. The conditions of detection by MALDI-TOF were optimized. The parallel synthesis, the preparation of sample, the SEC analysis, and the MALDI spotting were realized automatically on a Chemspeed platform. The MALDI-TOF technique enables the detection of oligomers up to pentamer and nonamer, whereas the SEC-UV permits the detection of about 17-mer for rutin and esculin. The molecular mass distribution is underestimated by MALDI-TOF analysis compared with SEC-UV, but comes to the determination of absolute masses. So these two techniques would be combined to explore the masses and the oligomer distributions.
Extracting environmentally driven growth trends from diameter increment series based on a multiplicative decomposition model
Authors: Yue Chaofang , Kohnle Ulrich , Hanewinkel Marc , Klädtke Joachim
Published: August 2011

The study developed a conceptual framework for partitioning the components of diameter increment to potentially detect the influence of environmental changes. This process consisted of two steps. First, a multiplicative decomposition diameter increment model was introduced to evaluate the influence of ageing, site quality, competition status, and thinning effects on individual tree growth. Second, generalized additive models were applied to identify the nonlinear dynamic of growth trends caused by environmental changes. The conceptual framework was then applied to Norway spruce ( Picea abies (L.) Karst.) growing in southwest Germany. The database consisted primarily of tree ring series collected from trees cut from long-term experimental stands. Also, stand-level data were available from periodical remeasurements of these plots. The developed analytical technique effectively removed non-environment-related effects (ageing, site quality, and stand dynamic) from the growth signal provided in the diameter increment series. Growth trends deducted from estimates based on either nonlinear least squares, generalized nonlinear least squares, or nonlinear mixed-effects approaches displayed quite similar patterns. In general, the trend in diameter increment showed a long-term increase from the 1920s into the 1990s with a midterm depression in the 1940s that was followed by a significant decrease in the recent past.
Comparison of different methods for fitting nonlinear mixed forest models and for making predictions
Authors: Yang Yuqing , Huang Shongming
Published: August 2011

Nonlinear mixed models have become popular in forestry applications, and various methods have been proposed for fitting such models. However, it is difficult or even confusing to choose which method to use, and there is not much relevant information available, especially in the forestry context. The main objective of this study was to compare three commonly used methods for fitting nonlinear mixed models: the first-order, the first-order conditional expectation, and the adaptive Gaussian quadrature methods. Both the maximum likelihood and restricted maximum likelihood parameter estimation techniques were evaluated. Three types of data common in forestry were used for model fitting and model application. It was found that the first-order conditional expectation method provided more accurate and precise predictions for two models developed from data with more observations per subject. For one model developed on data with fewer observations per subject, the first-order method provided better model predictions. All three models fitted by the first-order method produced some biologically unrealistic predictions, and the problem was more obvious on the data with fewer observations per subject. For all three models fitted by the first-order and first-order conditional expectation methods, the maximum likelihood and restricted maximum likelihood fits and the resulting model predictions were very close.
Feasibility of using red pigment producing fungi to stain wood for decorative applications
Authors: Robinson Sara C. , Tudor Daniela , Cooper Paul A.
Published: August 2011

This research investigated the use of red pigment producing fungi in controlled inoculation into woody substrates for decorative applications. Two Fusarium species isolated from red-stained wood and two strains of Arthrographis cuboidea capable of producing red stain in culture were inoculated onto sugar maple ( Acer saccharum Marsh.), incubated for 6–14 weeks, and evaluated for their ability to produce a high-saturation, penetrating stain. Both Fusarium species failed to produce significant pigmentation either externally or internally. Both strains of A. cuboidea produced high amounts of surface and penetrating red stain within a moderate incubation period (over 80% of the wood samples stained by 10 weeks of incubation) but were capable of doing so only under sterile or semisterile conditions. Production of red stain did not differ between A. cuboidea isolates except at 6 and 8 weeks where isolate ELS-1 had significantly higher internal red stain. It was also found that an increase in incubation time for A. cuboidea past 8 weeks led to increasing amounts of blue pigment on external wood surfaces. The findings indicate that A. cuboidea is suitable for production of red pigmentation on decorative wood applications only if utilized under sterile or semisterile conditions and incubation is halted before blue pigment begins to form.
Gap dynamics in aspen stands of the Clay Belt of northwestern Quebec following a forest tent caterpillar outbreak
Authors: Moulinier Julien , Lorenzetti François , Bergeron Yves
Published: August 2011

Forest tent caterpillar (FTC; Malacosoma disstria Hübner) outbreaks represent an important natural disturbance in broadleaf-dominated stands; however, their effects on forest gap dynamics are not well understood. To describe such effects on canopy gaps and tree recruitment patterns, we investigated 20 trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) dominated stands defoliated severely over 0 to 3 years during the last outbreak (1998–2003) in the northwestern Clay Belt of Quebec. Results show that canopy opening more than tripled (12.3%–43.7%) from 0 to 3 years of severe defoliation, and mean gap size was more than 12 times greater (7.2–87.5 m2) over the same gradient. Regeneration patterns suggest that aspen recruitment is not sufficient to completely restore closed canopies in stands defoliated 0, 1, and 2 years, whereas it should be sufficient in stands defoliated 3 years, where large gaps allow trembling aspen establishment. Our results clearly indicate that FTC outbreaks represent an important factor of gap formation in trembling aspen stands. At the stand level, gaps create uneven stand structures, and at the landscape level, FTC defoliation duration creates a large range of even to uneven stand structures.
A model of gas mixing into single-entrance tree cavities during wildland fires
Authors: Bova A.S. , Bohrer G. , Dickinson M.B.
Published: August 2011

The level of protection to fauna provided by tree cavities during wildland fires is not well understood. Here we present a model for estimating the transport of combustion gases into cylindrical, single-entrance cavities during exposures caused by different wildland fire scenarios. In these shelters, the entrance occurs near the top of the cavity. This empirical model was developed from a suite of numerical experiments using the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s Fire Dynamics Simulator, which spanned a range of entrance diameters, wind speeds, gas temperatures, and vertical angles of incidence. To evaluate the model’s predictions, it was used to replicate, with great accuracy, a time series of carbon monoxide (CO) concentrations in a controlled experiment where a fabricated cylindrical cavity was exposed to combustion products. The time constant for cavity filling is proportional to the ratio of cavity volume to entrance area. Hot gases lead to significant stratification within the cavity during exposures. To demonstrate the model’s potential use in predicting faunal exposures in the context of land management, we show that the model can be used to estimate dosage within red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis Vieillot, 1809) cavities without requiring temporally detailed, local measurements of wind speed and combustion product concentrations.
Adaptations to nitrogen form: comparing inorganic nitrogen and amino acid availability and uptake by four temperate forest plants
Authors: Metcalfe R.J. , Nault J. , Hawkins B.J.
Published: August 2011

There are few examinations of the relative availability and plant uptake of inorganic N and amino acid N in temperate forest regions. We determined the availability of amino acid N and inorganic N in soils under two shrub species ( Vaccinium ovalifolium Sm. versus Rubus spectabilis Pursh) on three sites near Jordan River, British Columbia, over a growing season. We compared biomass production of the two shrubs and two conifers ( Picea sitchensis (Bong.) Carr. and Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco var. menziesii) when given inorganic N (20:80 or 80:20 NH4+–NO3–) or organic N (glycine and glutamic acid) and assessed short-term uptake (24 h) of 15N-labelled NH4+, NO3–, glycine, or glutamic acid by the four species. Water-extracted soil concentrations of NH4+ were up to 1.5 times greater than NO3– averaged across sites. Concentrations of amino acid N and inorganic N were similar on soils under Rubus , but the amino acid N to inorganic N ratio was up to 2.4:1 in soils under Vaccinium . Soils dominated by Rubus had up to twice the NO3–-N and two thirds the amino acid N concentrations of soils dominated by Vaccinium, averaged across sites and Rubus had relatively high short-term 15NO3– uptake. The dry biomass of conifers was approximately four times greater when supplied mainly with NH4+ compared with NO3–, but biomass of the two shrub species was similar in both inorganic N treatments. All plants had comparable rates of short-term 15N uptake from amino acids and inorganic N, suggesting that amino acids could contribute to the N nutrition of these temperate species; however, dry biomass of all four species grown with amino acids was less than one half that of plants grown with inorganic N.
CRITICAL TEMPERATURES OF THE ISING MODEL ON THE BETHE LATTICE FOR ARBITRARY VALUES OF SPIN
Authors: JURČIŠINOVÁ E. , JURČIŠIN M.
Published: August 2011

Using the method of recursion relations an exact solution of classical Ising models with arbitrary value of spin on the Bethe lattice with arbitrary coordination number is presented. Expressions for the spontaneous magnetization, for the magnetic moments of arbitrary orders, for the susceptibility, for the free energy, and for the specific heat are found as functions of quantities which are determined by the recursion relations. The behavior of the spontaneous magnetization for the Ising model on the Bethe lattice is investigated for systems with spin values up to s = 5 for various coordination numbers and the corresponding critical temperatures are determined. An approximate formula for determining the positions of the critical temperatures for arbitrary high values of the spin variable is found and discussed. It is shown that this formula allows one to determine the full structure of the critical temperatures with very high precision.
OSCILLATORY WAVES IN DISCRETE SCALAR CONSERVATION LAWS
Authors: HERRMANN MICHAEL
Published: August 2011

We study Hamiltonian difference schemes for scalar conservation laws with monotone flux function and establish the existence of a three-parameter family of periodic traveling waves (wavetrains). The proof is based on an integral equation for the dual wave profile and employs constrained maximization as well as the invariance properties of a gradient flow. We also discuss the approximation of wavetrains and present some numerical results.
ON THE ASYMPTOTIC THEORY FROM MICROSCOPIC TO MACROSCOPIC GROWING TISSUE MODELS: AN OVERVIEW WITH PERSPECTIVES
Authors: BELLOMO N. , BELLOUQUID A. , NIETO J. , SOLER J.
Published: August 2011

This paper proposes a review and critical analysis of the asymptotic limit methods focused on the derivation of macroscopic equations for a class of equations modeling complex multicellular systems by methods of the kinetic theory for active particles. Cellular interactions generate both modification of biological functions and proliferative/destructive events. The asymptotic analysis deals with suitable parabolic, hyperbolic, and mixed limits. The review includes the derivation of the classical Keller–Segel model and flux limited models that prevent non-physical blow up of solutions.
hp-DGFEM FOR KOLMOGOROV–FOKKER–PLANCK EQUATIONS OF MULTIVARIATE LÉVY PROCESSES
Authors: MARAZZINA DANIELE , REICHMANN OLEG , SCHWAB CHRISTOPH
Published: August 2011

We analyze the discretization of nonlocal degenerate integrodifferential equations arising as so-called forward equations for jump-diffusion processes. Such equations arise in option pricing problems when the stochastic dynamics of the markets is modeled by Lévy driven stochastic volatility models. Well-posedness of the arising equations is addressed. We develop and analyze stable discretization schemes, in particular the discontinuous Galerkin Finite Element Methods (DG-FEM). In the DG-FEM, a new regularization of hypersingular integrals in the Dirichlet form of the pure jump part of infinite variation processes is proposed, allowing in particular a stable DG discretization of hypersingular integral operators. Robustness of the stabilized discretization with respect to various degeneracies in the characteristic triple of the stochastic process is proved. We provide in particular an hp-error analysis of the DG-FEM. Numerical experiments for model equations confirm the theoretical results.
Iodine doping of substituted μ-carbido iron diphthalocyanines
Authors: Zanotti Gloria , Notarantonio Sara , Paoletti Anna Maria , Pennesi Giovanna , Rossi Gentilina
Published: August 2011

Hemi and amphi-substituted μ-carbido iron diphthalocyanine having general formula (t- bu ) 4PcFe-C-FePc and (t- bu ) 4PcFe-C-FePc (t- bu )4 have been oxidized with I2. The oxidized compounds have been characterized and their physicochemical properties have been studied; the results obtained lead to assign them the formula [(t- Bu ) 4PcFe-C-FePc ] (I5)0.66 and [[(t- Bu ) 4PcFe ]2 C ]] (I5)0.66 respectively. The conduction properties, related to the role played by the pushing groups inserted in the peripheral macrocycles, are discussed. Moreover, an effective purification method for improving the yield and purity of iron tetra-tert-butyl phthalocyanine is described, the difficulty being able to obtain this precursor with a high purity grade.
Late Aptian to Turonian stratigraphy of the eastern Arabian Plate – depositional sequences and lithostratigraphic nomenclature
Authors: van Buchem F. S. P. , Simmons M. D. , Droste H. J. , Davies R. B.
Published: August 2011

This stratigraphic article summarizes a number of observations on the mid-Cretaceous stratigraphy of Arabia made during the 2nd Arabian Plate Geology Workshop held in Abu Dhabi in January 2010. These observations pertain to the lithostratigraphic nomenclature applied on the eastern Arabian Plate and its relationship to mid-Cretaceous (Late Aptian–Turonian) depositional systems and sequences recognized plate-wide. It appears that several of the commonly applied lithostratigraphic terms are diachronous as a result of (i) plate-wide migration of carbonate and siliciclastic facies belts; (ii) the occurrence of intra-shelf basins at different times and locations; (iii) differential preservation beneath erosional unconformities; and (iv) simple differences in usage across political boundaries. A plate-wide sequence stratigraphic scheme is thus a powerful tool for regional correlation and mapping, and for reconciling lithostratigraphic differences.

The studied interval can be subdivided into two primary sedimentary systems that differ in lithology, depositional geometries and dominant faunal assemblages. First, latest Aptian- and Albian-aged systems, which are characterized by volumetrically significant Arabian Shield-derived siliciclastics (both sandstones and claystones) that alternate with carbonate beds. The carbonate beds thicken up-section and have generally very low-angle, muddy ramp depositional geometries. Organic-rich basinal facies are found only in the Kazhdumi Basin in SW Iran at this time. The faunal composition of the carbonates is dominated by benthic foraminifera (notably orbitolinids). Within this succession three third-order depositional sequences are distinguished (MFS K90, K100 and K110). Secondly, Cenomanian–early Turonian-aged sedimentary systems are characterized by a marked reduction in siliciclastic influx, the development of carbonate platform to intra-shelf basin topography and deposition of basinal source rocks. Rudists are the dominant component of grainy, high-energy platform margin/barrier facies, and are also present in the platform top sediments. Within this succession three Cenomanian sequences can be correlated clearly at the scale of the plate (MFS K120, K130 and K140), whereas the number of sequences in the Turonian interval is less well known owing to significant local erosion and/or non-deposition during a period of tectonic instability.

Applying this robust sequence stratigraphic framework in combination with a synthesis of biostratigraphic age calibration demonstrates the diachronous character of the Mauddud, Safaniya, Ahmadi and Mishrif formations and equivalents from the southern to the northern part of the Arabian Plate.
Loss-of-function and gain-of-function phenotypes of stomatocytosis mutant RhAG F65S
Authors: Stewart Andrew K. , Shmukler Boris E. , Vandorpe David H. , Rivera Alicia , Heneghan John F. , Li Xiaojin , Hsu Ann , Karpatkin Margaret , O'Neill Allison F. , Bauer Daniel E. , Heeney Matthew M. , John Kathryn , Kuypers Frans A. , Gallagher Patrick G. , Lux Samuel E. , Brugnara Carlo , Westhoff Connie M. , Alper Seth L.
Published: August 2011

Four patients with overhydrated cation leak stomatocytosis (OHSt) exhibited the heterozygous RhAG missense mutation F65S. OHSt erythrocytes were osmotically fragile, with elevated Na and decreased K contents and increased cation channel-like activity. Xenopus oocytes expressing wild-type RhAG and RhAG F65S exhibited increased ouabain and bumetanide-resistant uptake of Li+ and 86Rb+, with secondarily increased 86Rb+ influx sensitive to ouabain and to bumetanide. Increased RhAG-associated 14C-methylammonium (MA) influx was severely reduced in RhAG F65S-expressing oocytes. RhAG-associated influxes of Li+, 86Rb+, and 14C-MA were pharmacologically distinct, and Li+ uptakes associated with RhAG and RhAG F65S were differentially inhibited by NH4+ and Gd3+. RhAG-expressing oocytes were acidified and depolarized by 5 mM bath NH3/NH4+, but alkalinized and depolarized by subsequent bath exposure to 5 mM methylammonium chloride (MA/MA+). RhAG F65S-expressing oocytes exhibited near-wild-type responses to NH4Cl, but MA/MA+ elicited attenuated alkalinization and strong hyperpolarization. Expression of RhAG or RhAG F65S increased steady-state cation currents unaltered by bath Li+ substitution or bath addition of 5 mM NH4Cl or MA/MA+. These oocyte studies suggest that 1) RhAG expression increases oocyte transport of NH3/NH4+ and MA/MA+; 2) RhAG F65S exhibits gain-of-function phenotypes of increased cation conductance/permeability, and loss-of-function phenotypes of decreased and modified MA/MA+ transport, and decreased NH3/NH4+-associated depolarization; and 3) RhAG transports NH3/NH4+ and MA/MA+ by distinct mechanisms, and/or the substrates elicit distinct cellular responses. Thus, RhAG F65S is a loss-of-function mutation for amine transport. The altered oocyte intracellular pH, membrane potential, and currents associated with RhAG or RhAG F65S expression may reflect distinct transport mechanisms.
The common hepatic branch of the vagus is not required to mediate the glycemic and food intake suppressive effects of glucagon-like-peptide-1
Authors: Hayes Matthew R. , Kanoski Scott E. , De Jonghe Bart C. , Leichner Theresa M. , Alhadeff Amber L. , Fortin Samantha M. , Arnold Myrtha , Langhans Wolfgang , Grill Harvey J.
Published: August 2011

The incretin and food intake suppressive effects of intraperitoneally administered glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) involve activation of GLP-1 receptors (GLP-1R) expressed on vagal afferent fiber terminals. Central nervous system processing of GLP-1R-driven vagal afferents results in satiation signaling and enhanced insulin secretion from pancreatic-projecting vagal efferents. As the vast majority of endogenous GLP-1 is released from intestinal l-cells following ingestion, it stands to reason that paracrine GLP-1 signaling, activating adjacent GLP-1R expressed on vagal afferent fibers of gastrointestinal origin, contributes to glycemic and food intake control. However, systemic GLP-1R-mediated control of glycemia is currently attributed to endocrine action involving GLP-1R expressed in the hepatoportal bed on terminals of the common hepatic branch of the vagus (CHB). Here, we examine the hypothesis that activation of GLP-1R expressed on the CHB is not required for GLP-1's glycemic and intake suppressive effects, but rather paracrine signaling on non-CHB vagal afferents is required to mediate GLP-1's effects. Selective CHB ablation (CHBX), complete subdiaphragmatic vagal deafferentation (SDA), and surgical control rats received an oral glucose tolerance test (2.0 g glucose/kg) 10 min after an intraperitoneal injection of the GLP-1R antagonist, exendin-(9–39) (Ex-9; 0.5 mg/kg) or vehicle. CHBX and control rats showed comparable increases in blood glucose following blockade of GLP-1R by Ex-9, whereas SDA rats failed to show a GLP-1R-mediated incretin response. Furthermore, GLP-1(7–36) (0.5 mg/kg ip) produced a comparable suppression of 1-h 25% glucose intake in both CHBX and control rats, whereas intake suppression in SDA rats was blunted. These findings support the hypothesis that systemic GLP-1R mediation of glycemic control and food intake suppression involves paracrine-like signaling on GLP-1R expressed on vagal afferent fibers of gastrointestinal origin but does not require the CHB.
Chronic tempol treatment attenuates the renal hemodynamic effects induced by a heme oxygenase inhibitor in streptozotocin diabetic rats
Authors: Rodriguez Francisca , Lopez Bernardo , Perez Cayetano , Fenoy Francisco J. , Hernandez Isabel , Stec David E. , Volti Giovanni Li , Salom Miguel G.
Published: August 2011

Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is induced by oxidative stress and plays an important role in protecting the kidney from oxidant-mediated damage in the streptozotocin (STZ) rat model of type-1 diabetes mellitus (DM-1). HO-derived metabolites, presumably carbon monoxide (CO), mediate vasodilatory influences in the renal circulation, particularly in conditions linked to elevated HO-1 protein expression or diminished nitric oxide (NO) levels. We tested the hypothesis that diabetes increases oxidative stress and induces HO-1 protein expression, which contributes to regulate renal hemodynamics in conditions of low NO bioavailability. Two weeks after the induction of diabetes with STZ (65 mg/kg iv), Sprague-Dawley rats exhibited higher renal HO-1 protein expression, hyperglycemia, and elevated renal nitrotyrosine levels than control normoglycemic animals. In anesthetized diabetic rats, renal vascular resistance (RVR) was increased, and in vivo cortical NO levels were reduced ( P < 0.05) compared with control animals. Acute administration of the HO inhibitor Stannous mesoporphyrin (SnMP; 40 μmol/kg iv) did not alter renal hemodynamics in control rats, but greatly decreased glomerular filtration rate and renal blood flow, markedly increasing RVR in hyperglycemic diabetic rats. Chronic oral treatment with the SOD mimetic tempol prevented the elevation of nitrotyrosine, the HO-1 protein induction, and the increases in RVR induced by SnMP in the diabetic group, without altering basal NO concentrations or RVR. Increasing concentrations of a CO donor (CO-releasing molecule-A1) on pressurized renal interlobar arteries elicited a comparable relaxation in vessels taken from control or diabetic animals. These results suggest that oxidative stress-induced HO-1 exerts vasodilatory actions that partially maintain renal hemodynamics in uncontrolled DM-1.
Modulation of outer medullary NaCl transport and oxygenation by nitric oxide and superoxide
Authors: Edwards Aurélie , Layton Anita T.
Published: August 2011

We expanded our region-based model of water and solute exchanges in the rat outer medulla to incorporate the transport of nitric oxide (NO) and superoxide (O2−) and to examine the impact of NO-O2− interactions on medullary thick ascending limb (mTAL) NaCl reabsorption and oxygen (O2) consumption, under both physiological and pathological conditions. Our results suggest that NaCl transport and the concentrating capacity of the outer medulla are substantially modulated by basal levels of NO and O2−. Moreover, the effect of each solute on NaCl reabsorption cannot be considered in isolation, given the feedback loops resulting from three-way interactions between O2, NO, and O2−. Notwithstanding vasoactive effects, our model predicts that in the absence of O2−-mediated stimulation of NaCl active transport, the outer medullary concentrating capacity (evaluated as the collecting duct fluid osmolality at the outer-inner medullary junction) would be ∼40% lower. Conversely, without NO-induced inhibition of NaCl active transport, the outer medullary concentrating capacity would increase by ∼70%, but only if that anaerobic metabolism can provide up to half the maximal energy requirements of the outer medulla. The model suggests that in addition to scavenging NO, O2− modulates NO levels indirectly via its stimulation of mTAL metabolism, leading to reduction of O2 as a substrate for NO. When O2− levels are raised 10-fold, as in hypertensive animals, mTAL NaCl reabsorption is significantly enhanced, even as the inefficient use of O2 exacerbates hypoxia in the outer medulla. Conversely, an increase in tubular and vascular flows is predicted to substantially reduce mTAL NaCl reabsorption. In conclusion, our model suggests that the complex interactions between NO, O2−, and O2 significantly impact the O2 balance and NaCl reabsorption in the outer medulla.
Role of AT1receptor-mediated salt retention in angiotensin II-dependent hypertension
Authors: Crowley Steven D. , Zhang Jiandong , Herrera Maria , Griffiths Robert , Ruiz Phillip , Coffman Thomas M.
Published: August 2011

Activation of type 1 angiotensin II (AT1) receptors in the kidney promotes blood pressure elevation and target organ damage, but whether renal AT1receptors influence the level of hypertension by stimulating sodium retention or by raising systemic vascular resistance has not been established. In the current studies, we used a kidney cross-transplantation strategy to determine whether increased sodium reabsorption by AT1receptors in the kidney mediates the chronic hypertensive response to angiotensin II. We found this to be true. In addition, we also identified a second, nontrivial component of blood pressure elevation induced by activation of renal AT1receptors that is sodium-independent. As the kidney has the capacity to limit the transmission of elevated systemic blood pressure into the renal microcirculation, prior studies struggled to clearly discriminate the relative contributions of blood pressure elevation vs. activation of AT1receptors to hypertensive kidney injury. In our model, we found that rapid surges in blood pressure, which may overcome the kidney's capacity to prevent perturbations in renal hemodynamics, correlate closely with kidney damage in hypertension. Moreover, maximal kidney injury in hypertension may require activation of a pool of nonrenal, systemic AT1receptors. These studies provide insight into precise mechanisms through which AT1receptor blockade influences the progression of hypertensive kidney disease.
Strain differences in the neural, behavioral, and molecular correlates of sweet and salty taste in naive, ethanol- and sucrose-exposed P and NP rats
Authors: Coleman Jamison , Williams Ashley , Phan Tam-Hao T. , Mummalaneni Shobha , Melone Pamela , Ren ZuoJun , Zhou Huiping , Mahavadi Sunila , Murthy Karnam S. , Katsumata Tadayoshi , DeSimone John A. , Lyall Vijay
Published: August 2011

Strain differences between naive, sucrose- and ethanol-exposed alcohol-preferring (P) and alcohol-nonpreferring (NP) rats were investigated in their consumption of ethanol, sucrose, and NaCl; chorda tympani (CT) nerve responses to sweet and salty stimuli; and gene expression in the anterior tongue of T1R3 and TRPV1/TRPV1t. Preference for 5% ethanol and 10% sucrose, CT responses to sweet stimuli, and T1R3 expression were greater in naive P rats than NP rats. The enhancement of the CT response to 0.5 M sucrose in the presence of varying ethanol concentrations (0.5–40%) in naive P rats was higher and shifted to lower ethanol concentrations than NP rats. Chronic ingestion of 5% sucrose or 5% ethanol decreased T1R3 mRNA in NP and P rats. Naive P rats also demonstrated bigger CT responses to NaCl+benzamil and greater TRPV1/TRPV1t expression. TRPV1t agonists produced biphasic effects on NaCl+benzamil CT responses, enhancing the response at low concentrations and inhibiting it at high concentrations. The concentration of a TRPV1/TRPV1t agonist (Maillard reacted peptides conjugated with galacturonic acid) that produced a maximum enhancement in the NaCl+benzamil CT response induced a decrease in NaCl intake and preference in P rats. In naive P rats and NP rats exposed to 5% ethanol in a no-choice paradigm, the biphasic TRPV1t agonist vs. NaCl+benzamil CT response profiles were higher and shifted to lower agonist concentrations than in naive NP rats. TRPV1/TRPV1t mRNA expression increased in NP rats but not in P rats exposed to 5% ethanol in a no-choice paradigm. We conclude that P and NP rats differ in T1R3 and TRPV1/TRPV1t expression and neural and behavioral responses to sweet and salty stimuli and to chronic sucrose and ethanol exposure.