bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk factors for nipple involvement in breast cancer patients
Authors: KARANIKOLIC Aleksandar , KATIC Vuka , PESIC Miomir , DJORDJEVIC Nebojsa , FILIPOVIC Sladjana , ILIC Ratko
Published: August 2010

Introduction: A clinically normal‐appearing nipple in patients with breast cancer may contain unsuspected neoplastic cells. Preservation of a nipple containing occult malignancy could potentially increase local recurrence rates and affect disease‐free survival. Consequently, patients considered for breast conservation operations with nipple preservation must be carefully selected.

Methods: Information available on 382 patients diagnosed and treated with breast cancer at the Clinical Center Nis from 2000 to 2003 were retrospectively reviewed. Multivariate hazard analyses was used to assess the association between potential risk factors of cancerous nipple involvement.

Results: The frequency of nipple involvement was 12.04%. Nearly half of the patients had disease stage III and IV. Most patients, 29 (63.04%), had a tumor to nipple distance of less then 2 cm. Twenty‐five patients (54.34%) had more then four positive axillary nodes. A central/overlap tumor location was present in 28 (60.87%) patients. Cox multivariate analysis of prognostic factors showed that Stage III (RH 4.79 (1.50–14.68, 1.50–14.72);P= 0.008), central/overlap tumor location (RH 3.28 (0.90–11.20);P= 0.078) and nuclear grade III or greater (RH 2.26 (0.79 to 6.65);P= 0.065) had a statistically significant effect on malign nipple involvement.

Conclusions: The multivariable model used in this study showed a significant association between stage, centrally located tumors and nuclear grade III or greater in predicting the risk of cancerous nipple involvement. Preoperative magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography scan examinations are recommended for treatment planning of breast cancer, in particular nipple preserving surgery in patients with central/overlap tumor localization and with a tumor to nipple distance of less than 2 cm.
Odontoid fracture in multiple myelomas
Authors: KASHYAP Rajesh , KUMAR Raj
Published: August 2010

Fracture of the odontoid process as the primary presentation of multiple myelomas is rare. The management of this condition in an elderly patient presents a great challenge. We report a 60‐year‐old man who presented with fracture of the odontoid process of the C 2 vertebra with multiple myelomas.
Sunitinib malate in the treatment of renal cell carcinoma and gastrointestinal stromal tumor: Recommendations for patient management*
Authors: DESAI Jayesh , GURNEY Howard , PAVLAKIS Nick , McARTHUR Grant A , DAVIS Ian D
Published: August 2010

Sunitinib malate (SU011248, Sutent®[Pfizer]) is an oral multitargeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor with efficacy against renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST). Sunitinib has been approved by various regulatory authorities for treatment of advanced RCC and unresectable and/or malignant GIST following failure of imatinib mesylate treatment due to resistance or intolerance. Sunitinib is generally well tolerated, with most side‐effects being mild to moderate. The most common adverse events are lethargy, diarrhea, stomatitis, hand–foot syndrome and hypertension. Uncommon but important adverse effects are hypothyroidism and hematological toxicity (neutropenia and thrombocytopenia), which require monitoring. Caution is recommended when using concurrent inhibitors or inducers of CYP3A4. The frequency and severity of side‐effects often correlates with increased drug exposure. In clinical trials, side‐effects seldom led to treatment discontinuation. This paper summarizes the published literature and provides recommendations for patient assessments and management of treatment‐related side‐effects.
Effect of Waterlase laser retrograde root‐end cavity preparation on the integrity of root apices of extracted teeth as demonstrated by light microscopy
Authors: Wallace James A.
Published: August 2010

Most endodontists use ultrasonic instruments for retrograde root‐end cavity preparations even though they have been found to produce cracks. In this laboratory study, thirty‐six randomly chosen roots had root‐end cavity preparations made with the Waterlase laser and only one questionable intra‐canal crack was found. It was concluded that the Waterlase laser when used to make endodontic root‐end cavity preparations produces either no cracks, or a very low percentage (2.8%) of cracks.
Determination of the minimum inhibitory concentration of four medicaments used as intracanal medication
Authors: Pallotta Raul C. , Ribeiro Mariangela S. , De Lima Machado Manoel E.
Published: August 2010

The aim of this study was to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of iodoform, calcium hydroxide, IKI (iodine potassium iodine) and CFC (ciprofloxacin, Flagyl (metronidazole) and calcium hydroxide) required to kill S. aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus faecalis and B. fragilis. In the experiment, medicaments were added to bacterial species into test tubes, in 10 different concentrations. The MIC was the lowest concentration of the drug at which bacterial growth could not be observed. In this investigation, CFC was the most effective medicament against all bacteria. All drugs were able to eliminate E. faecalis and B. fragilis, while IKI was not effective against S. aureus. IKI and calcium hydroxide were not able to eliminate P. aeruginosa as well.
Psychosocial interventions as adjunct therapy for patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review
Authors: DISSANAYAKE Rukmal Kumari , BERTOUCH James V.
Published: August 2010

Aim:  To identify the psychological interventions for which there is consistent, high quality evidence of efficacy in the treatment of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Method:  A computer‐aided search and manual screening of identified papers was conducted. Randomised controlled trials published in English in peer‐reviewed journals, assessing the use of psychological interventions in adult patients with RA were included.

Results:  Thirty‐four papers published between 1981 and 2009 encompassing 31 studies with 2021 patients were included. There is consistent supportive evidence for the efficacy of disclosure therapy (four studies) and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) with maintenance therapy (five studies). There is supportive evidence for improvement with CBT of greater than 6 weeks duration (six studies) in the short‐term but conflicting evidence for its long‐term efficacy. There is some evidence for improvement with biofeedback‐based interventions (two studies). There is conflicting evidence for the benefits of counselling (three studies), psychotherapy (two studies) mindfulness and meditation (two studies), and CBT of less than 6 weeks duration (six studies). There is limited evidence regarding relaxation therapy (two studies). Methodological limitations of the reviewed literature included failure of allocation concealment, blinding and conduction of intention‐to‐treat analysis, as well as the heterogeneity and choice of outcome measures.

Conclusions:  This review shows consistent supportive evidence for the use of disclosure therapy, and CBT with maintenance therapy as adjunct therapies in patients with RA. It also highlights methodological limitations in the current literature and the need for future research in this area.
Prevalence and predictors of osteoporosis in an urban Sri Lankan population
Authors: KARUNANAYAKE Aranjan Lionel , PINIDIYAPATHIRAGE Mohitha Janani , WICKREMASINGHE Ananda Rajitha
Published: August 2010

Aim:  To determine the prevalence of osteoporosis in both women and men and to determine the association between osteoporosis and selected risk factors among a sample of urban Sri Lankan adults.

Methods:  The population aged 35–64 years residing in 22 Grama Niladhari divisions, the smallest administrative units in the country, of the Medical Officer of Health area Ragama, Sri Lanka, was identified using the electoral list and stratified into three age groups (n = 3012). A random sample was obtained from each stratum and selected individuals were invited to participate in the study (n = 1100). A structured, interviewer‐administered questionnaire was used to collect information on demographic data and details of risk factors. Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured using a peripheral dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan in 700 subjects (64%). A BMD < −2.5 was considered as osteoporosis. Although peripheral DEXA is less sensitive and specific compared to central DEXA it was used in this study as it is less costly and easily transportable.

Results:  Of the 700 subjects who consented to participate in the study, 60% (n = 421) were females. In subjects < 50 years, 9% of women and 3% of men had osteoporosis. In subjects ≥ 50 years, 27% of women and 7% of men had osteoporosis. Female sex (odds ratio [OR] 12.0), smoking (OR 5.5), age > 50 years (OR 3.1), low BMI (OR 3.1) and low level of education (OR 1.7) were positively associated with osteoporosis.

Conclusions:  Female sex, age, BMI, smoking and level of education were significant predictors of osteoporosis. The prevalence of osteoporosis increased in both women and men after 50 years.
Pharmacokinetics of amikacin in plasma and selected body fluids of healthy horses after a single intravenous dose
Authors: PINTO N. , SCHUMACHER J. , TAINTOR J. , DEGRAVES F. , DURAN S. , BOOTHE D.
Published: August 2010

Reasons for performing study:No studies have determined the pharmacokinetics of low‐dose amikacin in the mature horse.

Objectives:To determine if a single i.v. dose of amikacin (10 mg/kg bwt) will reach therapeutic concentrations in plasma, synovial, peritoneal and interstitial fluid of mature horses (n = 6).

Methods:Drug concentrations of amikacin were measured across time in mature horses (n = 6); plasma, synovial, peritoneal and interstitial fluid were collected after a single i.v. dose of amikacin (10 mg/kg bwt).

Results:The mean ± s.d. of selected parameters were: extrapolated plasma concentration of amikacin at time zero 144 ± 21.8 µg/ml; extrapolated plasma concentration for the elimination phase 67.8 ± 7.44 µg/ml, area under the curve 139 ± 34.0 µg*h/ml, elimination half‐life 1.34 ± 0.408 h, total body clearance 1.25 ± 0.281 ml/min/kg bwt; and mean residence time (MRT) 1.81 ± 0.561 h. At 24 h, the plasma concentration of amikacin for all horses was below the minimum detectable concentration for the assay. Selected parameters in synovial and peritoneal fluid were maximum concentration (Cmax) 19.7 ± 7.14 µg/ml and 21.4 ± 4.39 µg/ml and time to maximum concentration 65 ± 12.2 min and 115 ± 12.2 min, respectively. Amikacin in the interstitial fluid reached a mean peak concentration of 12.7 ± 5.34 µg/ml and after 24 h the mean concentration was 3.31 ± 1.69 µg/ml. Based on a minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 4 µg/ml, the mean Cmax : MIC ratio was 16.9 ± 1.80 in plasma, 4.95 ± 1.78 in synovial fluid, 5.36 ± 1.10 in peritoneal fluid and 3.18 ± 1.33 in interstitial fluid.

Conclusions:Amikacin dosed at 10 mg/kg bwt i.v. once a day in mature horses is anticipated to be effective for treatment of infection caused by most Gram‐negative bacteria.

Potential relevance:Low dose amikacin (10 mg/kg bwt) administered once a day in mature horses may be efficacious against susceptible microorganisms.
A Multiobjective Adaptive Controller for Magnetic Bearing Systems
Authors: Sahinkaya M. Necip , Abulrub Abdul-Hadi G. , Burrows Clifford R. , Keogh Patrick S.
Published: September 2010

The paper considers three issues in flexible rotor and magnetic bearing systems, namely, the control of rotor vibration, control of transmitted forces, and prevention of rotor contact with auxiliary bearings. An adaptive multiobjective optimization method is developed to tackle these issues simultaneously using a modified recursive adaptive controller. The proposed method involves automatic tuning of the weighting parameters in accordance with performance specifications. A two-stage weighting strategy is implemented, involving base weightings, calculated from a singular value decomposition of the system’s receptance matrices, and two adjustable weighting parameters to shift the balance between the three objective functions. The receptance matrices are functions of rotational speed and they are estimated in situ. The whole process does not require prior knowledge of the system parameters. Real-time implementation of the proposed controller is explained and tested by using an experimental flexible rotor magnetic bearing system. The rotor displacements were measured relative to the base frame using four pairs of eddy current displacement transducers. System stability is ensured through local PID controllers. The proposed adaptive controller is implemented in parallel, and the effectiveness of the weighting parameters in changing the balance between the transmitted forces and rotor vibrations is demonstrated experimentally.
Degradation behavior of release layers for nanoimprint lithography formed on atomically flat Si(111) terraces
Authors: Kuwabara Kosuke , Miyauchi Akihiro , Sugimura Hiroyuki
Published: September 2010

A release layer for nanoimprint lithography was formed on atomically flat Si(111) terraces to investigate its surface morphology and degradation behavior due to imprinting. The adhesive nature between the layers and a polystyrene colloid probe was also evaluated. Three types of release layers (silicone, fluoro-oligomer, and perfluoropolyether) were formed on mildly oxidized Si(111) substrates that retained a flat terrace structure. All the layers were sufficiently thin and uniform to show the flat terrace structure of the Si(111) substrates. These release layers showed different degradation behaviors toward thermal nanoimprint lithography and UV-photocure nanoimprint lithography cycles as elucidated by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, and adhesion force measurements. The perfluoropolyether exhibited better durability against nanoimprint cycles due to the presence of free molecules not bound to the surface. This study includes a detailed discussion of the degradation mechanisms of the release layers.
Differential Phenotypic Diversity among Epidemic-Spanning
Salmonella enterica
Serovar Enteritidis Isolates from Humans or Animals
Authors: Yim Lucía , Betancor Laura , Martinez Arací , Giossa Gerardo , Bryant Clare , Maskell Duncan , Chabalgoity Jose A.
Published: August 2010

Nontyphoidal salmonellae are major causes of food-borne disease worldwide. In Uruguay,
Salmonella enterica
serovar Enteritidis was the most commonly isolated serovar throughout the last decade, with a marked epidemic period between 1995 and 2004. In a previous study, we conducted comparative genomics of 29 epidemic-spanning
S.
Enteritidis field isolates, and here we evaluated the pathogenic potential of the same set of isolates using several phenotypic assays. The sample included 15 isolates from human gastroenteritis, 5 from invasive disease, and 9 from nonhuman sources. Contrary to the genetic homogeneity previously observed, we found great phenotypic variability among these isolates. One-third of them were defective in at least one assay, namely, 10 isolates were defective in motility, 8 in invasion of Caco-2 cells, and 10 in survival in egg albumen. Twelve isolates were tested for invasiveness in 3-day-old chickens, and five of these were significantly less invasive than the reference strain. The two oldest preepidemic isolates were reduced in fitness in all assays, providing a plausible explanation for the previous negligible incidence of
S.
Enteritidis in Uruguay and supporting the view that the introduction or emergence of a more virulent strain was responsible for the marked rise of this serovar. Further, we found differences in fitness among the isolates which depended on the source of isolation. A total of 1 out of 14 isolates from human gastroenteritis, but 6 out of 13 isolates from other sources, was impaired in at least two assays, suggesting enhanced fitness among strains able to cause intestinal disease in humans.
Diversity and Abundance of Zoonotic Pathogens and Indicators in Manures of Feedlot Cattle in Australia
Authors: Klein Marcus , Brown Leearna , Tucker Robyn W. , Ashbolt Nicholas J. , Stuetz Richard M. , Roser David J.
Published: August 2010

The occurrence of 10 pathogens and three fecal indicators was assessed by quantitative PCR in manures of Australian feedlot cattle. Most samples tested positive for one or more pathogens. For the dominant pathogens
Campylobacter jejuni
,
Listeria monocytogenes
,
Giardia
spp.,
Cryptosporidium
spp., and
eaeA
-positive
Escherichia coli
, 10
2
to 10
7
genome copies g
−1
(dry weight) manure were recovered.
Quantification of Nitrogen Reductase and Nitrite Reductase Genes in Soil of Thinned and Clear-Cut Douglas-Fir Stands by Using Real-Time PCR
Authors: Levy-Booth David J. , Winder Richard S.
Published: August 2010

The abundance of
nifH
,
nirS
, and
nirK
gene fragments involved in nitrogen (N) fixation and denitrification in thinned second-growth Douglas-fir (
Pseudotsuga menziesii
subsp.
menziesii
[Mirb.] Franco) forest soil was investigated by using quantitative real-time PCR. Prokaryotic N cycling is an important aspect of N availability in forest soil. The abundance of universal
nifH
,
Azotobacter
sp.-specific
nifH
(
nifH-
g1),
nirS
, and
nirK
gene fragments in unthinned control and 30, 90, and 100% thinning treatments were compared at two long-term research sites on Vancouver Island, Canada. The soil was analyzed for organic matter (OM), total carbon (C), total N, NH
4
-N, NO
3
-N, and phosphorus (P). The soil horizon accounted for the greatest variation in nutrient status, followed by the site location. The 30% thinning treatment was associated with significantly greater
nifH
-g1 abundance than the control treatment in one site; at the same site,
nirS
in the mineral soil horizon was significantly reduced by thinning. The abundance of
nirS
genes significantly correlated with the abundance of
nirK
genes. In addition, significant correlations were observed between
nifH
-g1 abundance and C and N in the organic horizon and between
nirS
and
nirK
and N in the mineral horizon. Overall, no clear influence of tree thinning on
nifH
,
nirS
, and
nirK
was observed. However, soil OM, C, and N were found to significantly influence N-cycling gene abundance.
Comparative Genomic Characterization of
Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae
Authors: Xu Zhuofei , Chen Xiabing , Li Lu , Li Tingting , Wang Shengyue , Chen Huanchun , Zhou Rui
Published: August 2010

The Gram-negative bacterium
Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae
is the etiologic agent of porcine contagious pleuropneumoniae, a lethal respiratory infectious disease causing great economic losses in the swine industry worldwide. In order to better interpret the genetic background of serotypic diversity, nine genomes of
A. pleuropneumoniae
reference strains of serovars 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, 10, 11, 12, and 13 were sequenced by using rapid high-throughput approach. Based on 12 genomes of corresponding serovar reference strains including three publicly available complete genomes (serovars 3, 5b, and 7) of this bacterium, we performed a comprehensive analysis of comparative genomics and first reported a global genomic characterization for this pathogen. Clustering of 26,012 predicted protein-coding genes showed that the pan genome of
A. pleuropneumoniae
consists of 3,303 gene clusters, which contain 1,709 core genome genes, 822 distributed genes, and 772 strain-specific genes. The genome components involved in the biogenesis of capsular polysaccharide and lipopolysaccharide O antigen relative to serovar diversity were compared, and their genetic diversity was depicted. Our findings shed more light on genomic features associated with serovar diversity of
A. pleuropneumoniae
and provide broader insight into both pathogenesis research and clinical/epidemiological application against the severe disease caused by this swine pathogen.
Loss of Compartmentalization of σ
E
Activity Need Not Prevent Formation of Spores by
Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Chary Vasant K. , Xenopoulos Panagiotis , Eldar Avigdor , Piggot Patrick J.
Published: August 2010

Compartmentalization of the activities of RNA polymerase sigma factors is a hallmark of formation of spores by
Bacillus subtilis
. It is initiated soon after the asymmetrically located sporulation division takes place with the activation of σ
F
in the smaller cell, the prespore. σ
F
then directs a signal via the membrane protease SpoIIGA to activate σ
E
in the larger mother cell by processing of pro-σ
E
. Here, we show that σ
E
can be activated in the prespore with little effect on sporulation efficiency, implying that complete compartmentalization of σ
E
activity is not essential for spore formation. σ
E
activity in the prespore can be obtained by inducing transcription in the prespore of
spoIIGA
or of
sigE
*, which encodes a constitutively active form of σ
E
, but not of
spoIIGB
, which encodes pro-σ
E
. We infer that σ
E
compartmentalization is partially attributed to a competition between the compartments for the activation signaling protein SpoIIR. Normally, SpoIIGA is predominantly located in the mother cell and as a consequence confines σ
E
activation to it. In addition, we find that CsfB, previously shown to inhibit σ
G
, is independently inhibiting σ
E
activity in the prespore. CsfB thus appears to serve a gatekeeper function in blocking the action of two sigma factors in the prespore: it prevents σ
G
from becoming active before completion of engulfment and helps prevent σ
E
from becoming active at all.
Molecular and Catalytic Properties of the Aldehyde Dehydrogenase of
Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus
, a Quinoheme Protein Containing Pyrroloquinoline Quinone, Cytochrome
b
, and Cytochrome
c
Authors: Gómez-Manzo S. , Chavez-Pacheco J. L. , Contreras-Zentella M. , Sosa-Torres M. E. , Arreguín-Espinosa R. , Pérez de la Mora M. , Membrillo-Hernández J. , Escamilla J. E.
Published: August 2010

Several aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) complexes have been purified from the membranes of acetic acid bacteria. The enzyme structures and the chemical nature of the prosthetic groups associated with these enzymes remain a matter of debate. We report here on the molecular and catalytic properties of the membrane-bound ALDH complex of the diazotrophic bacterium
Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus
. The purified ALDH complex is a heterodimer comprising two subunits of 79.7 and 50 kDa, respectively. Reversed-phase high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy led us to demonstrate, for the first time, the unequivocal presence of a pyrroloquinoline quinone prosthetic group associated with an ALDH complex from acetic acid bacteria. In addition, heme
b
was detected by UV-visible light (UV-Vis) spectroscopy and confirmed by reversed-phase HPLC. The smaller subunit bears three cytochromes
c
. Aliphatic aldehydes, but not formaldehyde, were suitable substrates. Using ferricyanide as an electron acceptor, the enzyme showed an optimum pH of 3.5 that shifted to pH 7.0 when phenazine methosulfate plus 2,6-dichlorophenolindophenol were the electron acceptors. Acetaldehyde did not reduce measurable levels of the cytochrome
b
and
c
centers; however, the dithionite-reduced hemes were conveniently oxidized by ubiquinone-1; this finding suggests that cytochrome
b
and the cytochromes
c
constitute an intramolecular redox sequence that delivers electrons to the membrane ubiquinone.
A Periplasmic LolA Derivative with a Lethal Disulfide Bond Activates the Cpx Stress Response System
Authors: Tao Kazuyuki , Watanabe Shoji , Narita Shin-ichiro , Tokuda Hajime
Published: August 2010

LolA accommodates the acyl chains of lipoproteins in its hydrophobic cavity and shuttles between the inner and outer membranes through the hydrophilic periplasm to place lipoproteins in the outer membrane. The LolA(I93C/F140C) derivative, in which Cys replaces Ile at position 93 and Phe at position 140, strongly inhibited growth in the absence of a reducing agent because of the lethal intramolecular disulfide bond between the two Cys residues. Expression of I93C/F140C was found to activate the Cpx two-component system, which responds to cell envelope stress. The inhibition of growth by I93C/F140C was partly suppressed by overproduction of LolCDE, which is an ATP-binding cassette transporter and mediates the transfer of lipoproteins from the inner membrane to LolA. A substantial portion of the oxidized form, but not the reduced one, of I93C/F140C expressed on LolCDE overproduction was recovered in the membrane fraction, whereas wild-type LolA was localized in the periplasm even when LolCDE was overproduced. Moreover, LolCDE overproduction stabilized I93C/F140C and therefore caused an increase in its level. Taken together, these results indicate that oxidized I93C/F140C stably binds to LolCDE, which causes strong envelope stress.
Complete Genome Sequence of
Methanothermobacter marburgensis
, a Methanoarchaeon Model Organism
Authors: Liesegang Heiko , Kaster Anne-Kristin , Wiezer Arnim , Goenrich Meike , Wollherr Antje , Seedorf Henning , Gottschalk Gerhard , Thauer Rudolf K.
Published: August 2010

The circular genome sequence of the chemolithoautotrophic euryarchaeon
Methanothermobacter marburgensis
, with 1,639,135 bp, was determined and compared with that of
Methanothermobacter thermautotrophicus
. The genomes of the two model methanogens differ substantially in protein coding sequences, in insertion sequence (IS)-like elements, and in clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) loci.
Complete Genome Sequence of
Mycoplasma hyorhinis
Strain HUB-1
Authors: Liu Wei , Fang Liurong , Li Sha , Li Qiang , Zhou Zhemin , Feng Zhixin , Luo Rui , Shao Guoqing , Wang Lei , Chen Huanchun , Xiao Shaobo
Published: August 2010

Mycoplasma hyorhinis
is generally considered a swine pathogen yet is most commonly found infecting laboratory cell lines. An increasing body of evidence suggests that chronic infections with
M. hyorhinis
may cause oncogenic transformation. Here, we announce the complete genome sequence of
M. hyorhinis
strain HUB-1.
RFLP analysis of rRNA intergenic spacer regions of 23 isolates of the entomopathogenPaecilomyces farinosus
Authors: Chew J. S. K. , Strongman D. B. , MacKay R. M.
Published: September 2010

Genetic relationships between 23 eastern Canadian isolates of the entomopathogen Paecilomyces farinosus (Holm ex S.F. Gray) Brown & Smith were investigated by comparison of DNA fragments produced by restriction enzyme digestion of polymerase chain reaction amplified ribosomal RNA intergenic spacer regions. The variation observed was limited to 40% or less of these regions. All P. farinosus isolates were very dissimilar to isolates of the entomopathogens Beauveria bassiana (Bals.) Vuill. and Paecilomyces fumosoroseus (Wize) Brown & Smith. Seventeen P. farinosus isolates from six different hosts and diverse habitats yielded identical or nearly identical results. Two groups, each with three isolates from two different hosts, were distinct from the main group of isolates. Each of the three P. farinosus groups included some isolates that produced synnemata and some that did not, indicating multiple evolutionary losses of the ability to produce this sporulation structure. We conclude that eastern Canadian P. farinosus, while genetically and phenotypically variable, is not composed largely of strains with strict ecological requirements. Key words: entomopathogenic fungus, population biology, RFLP, ribosomal RNA intergenic spacer.
Comparison of RAPD technique and somatic incompatibility tests for the identification ofPhlebiopsis giganteastrains
Authors: Roy Geneviève , Cormier Martine , Dessureault Michel , Hamelin Richard C.
Published: September 2010

Somatic incompatibility assays and random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis were assessed and compared for use in monitoring the survival of introduced strains of Phlebiopsis gigantea, a fungal biocontrol agent used against Heterobasidion annosum root rot. Overall there was concordance between the two methods. All incompatible strains exhibited different RAPD profiles whilst compatible ones, with two exceptions, had the same RAPD profile. Somatic incompatibility tests and RAPD profiles generated by three primers, from which 11 markers were retained, could distinguish field-tested strains from among 60 strains from a population collected in Quebec and Ontario. Furthermore, both methods allowed us to clearly demonstrate the presence of inoculated strains 1 year after treatment. The combined use of these techniques provides a valuable tool for discriminating between different P. gigantea strains and conducting epidemiological studies. Key words: Heterobasidion annosum, vegetative incompatibility, random amplified polymorphic DNA, biological control, Pinus resinosa.
Perception of neighbouring plants by rhizomes and roots: morphological manifestations of a clonal plant
Authors: Huber-Sannwald Elisabeth , Caldwell Martyn M. , Pyke David A.
Published: September 2010

A previous study showed that clonal morphology of the rhizomatous grass Elymus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus (Scibner & J.G. Smith Gould) was influenced more by neighbouring root systems than by the local distribution of nutrients. In this study we determine whether individual rhizomes or roots of E. lanceolatus perceive neighbouring root systems and how this is manifested in morphological responses of E. lanceolatus clones. Elymus lanceolatus was grown in the same bin with Pseudoroegneria spicata (Pursh) A. Love or Agropyron desertorum (Fisch. ex Link) Schult. plants. Elymus lanceolatus was separated from its neighbours by different barriers. The barriers allowed either only E. lanceolatus roots; only a single E. lanceolatus primary rhizome; or both roots and rhizomes to contact the neighbour root system. When only a single E. lanceolatus primary rhizome with potentially developing branching rhizomes made contact with the neighbour, the clonal structure of E. lanceolatus was modified more with P. spicata as the neighbour than with A. desertorum. With root contact of E. lanceolatus alone there was a similar effect with the neighbouring plants, but there was a more marked inhibitory effect on E. lanceolatus clonal growth with P. spicata than with A. desertorum, compared with the treatment with only a single rhizome in contact with the neighbour. Root resource competition in the unconstrained treatment (roots and rhizomes) between neighbouring plant and E. lanceolatus was more apparent with A. desertorum than with P. spicata. This study is one of the first to document that rhizome and root contact of a clonal plant with its neighbours may induce different clonal responses depending on the species of neighbour. Key words: Agropyron desertorum, clonal morphology, Elymus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus, plant interference, plant contact, Pseudoroegneria spicata, rhizome structure, root systems.
Taxonomy of the Carex straminea complex (Cyperaceae)
Authors: Rothrock P. E. , Reznicek A. A. , Ganion L. R.
Published: September 2010

The Carex straminea complex (section Ovales) consists of five species limited to hydric communities of eastern North America. Based upon gross morphology and perigynium structure, these species are closely aligned with the Carex albolutescens complex but not the western species Carex feta. An SEM investigation of the micromorphology of achene and style epidermis from 15 species of Carex section Ovales demonstrated much interspecific variation. As a result, these data could not confirm the relationship between the C. straminea complex and the C. albolutescens complex but did support the delimitation of section Ovales. Numerical analysis showed that characters of the inflorescence and perigynium are satisfactory for separating C. straminea from Carex hormathodes, a species limited to the Atlantic coast. Likewise, characters of inflorescence, pistillate scale, and perigynium could clearly separate the geographically widespread Carex alata from the Florida endemic species Carex vexans. A fifth and relatively distinctive species, Carex suberecta, was found to have a narrow ecological preference for fens and a distribution limited to the upper Midwest, with outlying populations in western Virginia. Putative natural hybrids are documented between Carex scoparia and Carex longii and some species in the C. straminea complex. Key words: Carex, Cyperaceae, section Ovales, taxonomy, SEM, biogeography, hybrid.
Further observations on the type subgenus ofPyramimonas(Prasinophyceae), with particular reference to a new species,P.chlorina, and the flagellar apparatus ofP.propulsa
Authors: Sym Stuart D. , Pienaar Richard N.
Published: September 2010

A new quadriflagellate species of Pyramimonas isolated from South African inshore waters is described. It has ultrastructural features most consistent with the subgenus Pyramimonas McFadden. The flagellar apparatus of this organism is basically of the 3-1 type, but a unique structure, which may be considered a homologue of the R2-associated fiber found in Pterosperma cristatum, is associated with the 1s root. It thus could be construed as an alternate primitive form of the genus to Pyramimonas mucifera Sym & Pienaar. The flagellar apparatus of Pyramimonas propulsa Moestrup & Hill has surprising differences to that of Pyramimonas octopus Moestrup. Hori, & Kristiansen, particularly with regard to the microtubular roots and the distal fibrillar bands. Features of these two species, together with those extracted from the literature, show a considerable overlap between the subgenera Pyramimonas and Punctatae but, ironically, it is considered inappropriate at this time to combine the two subgenera because of anomalies exhibited by the new species. Key words: flagellar apparatus, Pyramimonas subgen. et gen., P. chlorina sp.nov., P. longicauda, ultrastructure.
Cesium-137 monitoring using lichens from Macedonia, northern Greece
Authors: Sawidis Thomas , Heinrich Georg , Chettri Mukesh K.
Published: September 2010

137Cs content in lichens collected from Macedonia, Greece, was measured at regular intervals during the last decade following the Chernobyl reactor accident. An increase in 137Cs concentration was observed for about 2–3 years after the accident. Later a gradual decrease was detected which depended on the biotopes and the collected species. Higher 137Cs amounts were observed in epilithic lichens compared with epigeic or epiphytic lichens. Furthermore, such foliose or crustose lichens as Parmelia sulcata, Xanthoria parietina, Xanthoria calcicola, and Xanthoparmelia somloensis were more contaminated than filamentose lichens at the same biotope. Among filamentose or fruticose species, those with large surface area to biomass ratio (e.g., Usnea sp.) also showed greater accumulation capacity. From the studied biotopes. Mount Vermion presented the highest values and even 10 years after the Chernobyl accident could be characterized as a "hot" biotope. The high 137Cs activities found in lichens 10 years after Chernobyl suggest that these primitive plants are suitable and inexpensive biological detectors of the fallout pattern. Key words: 137Cs, lichens, radionuclides, Chernobyl.
NUMERICAL VALIDATION OF A FIBER-REINFORCED HYPERELASTIC CONSTITUTIVE MODEL FOR HUMAN INTERVERTEBRAL DISC ANNULUS FIBROSUS
Authors: PENG XIONGQI , WANG YU , GUO ZAOYANG , SHI SHAOQING
Published: September 2010

This paper validates a constitutive model for human intervertebral disc annulus fibrosus via numerical simulations on a lumber spine motion segment. This anisotropic hyperelastic fiber-reinforced constitutive model was previously developed by the authors. Based on three-dimensional (3D) lumbar spine segments that are constructed from CT scanning images, a detailed and anatomically accurate human lumbar spine finite element (FE) model for L3–L4 motion segment is developed. The FE model includes vertebral bodies, intervertebral disc, and various ligaments. Numerical simulations are carried out by using commercial CAE software package ABAQUS/Standard. The loading cases considered in the numerical analysis are set to be consistent with sets-up of cadaveric specimen testing available in the literature. Numerical results such as load–displacement curves and nucleus pressure are compared with experimental data. Simulation results show good consistency with cadaveric experimental data, and have good biomechanical fidelity. The constitutive model can be used for human intervertebral disc modeling and biomechanical analysis of human spine column.
cGMP-dependent protein kinase and the regulation of vascular smooth muscle cell gene expression: possible involvement of Elk-1 sumoylation
Authors: Choi ChungSik , Sellak Hassan , Brown Felricia M. , Lincoln Thomas M.
Published: August 2010

Although the regulation of smooth muscle cell (SMC) gene expression by cGMP-dependent protein kinase (PKG) is now recognized, the mechanisms underlying these effects are not fully understood. In this study, we report that PKG-I stimulates myocardin/serum response factor (SRF)-dependent gene expression in vascular SMCs. The expression of PKG in PKG-deficient cells enhanced myocardin-induced SM22 promoter activity in a concentration-dependent fashion. However, neither SRF nor myocardin expression was affected. To investigate alternative mechanisms, we examined whether PKG affects the phosphorylation of E26-like protein-1 (Elk-1), a SRF/myocardin transcription antagonist. The activation of PKG caused an increase in a higher molecular mass form of phospho-Elk-1 that was determined to be small ubiquitin-related modifier (sumo)ylated Elk-1. PKG increased Elk-1 sumoylation twofold compared with the PKG-deficient cells, and Elk-1 sumoylation was reduced using dominant-negative sumo-conjugating enzyme, DN-Ubc9, confirming PKG-dependent sumoylation of phospho-Elk-1 in vascular SMCs. In addition, PKG stimulated Elk-1 sumoylation in COS-7 cells overexpressing Elk-1, sumo-1, and PKG-I. The increased expression of PKG in vascular SMCs inhibited Elk-1 binding to SMC-specific promoters, SM22 and smooth muscle myosin heavy chain, as measured by EMSA and chromatin immunoprecipitation assay, and PKG suppressed the Elk-1 inhibition of SM22 reporter gene expression. Taken together, these data suggest that PKG-I decreases Elk-1 activity by sumo modification of Elk-1, thereby increasing myocardin-SRF activity on SMC-specific gene expression.
Sox17 modulates Wnt3A/β-catenin-mediated transcriptional activation of the Lef-1 promoter
Authors: Liu Xiaoming , Luo Meihui , Xie Weiliang , Wells James M. , Goodheart Michael J. , Engelhardt John F.
Published: August 2010

Wnt/β-catenin-dependent activation of lymphoid enhancer factor 1 (Lef-1) plays an important role in numerous developmental processes. In this context, transcription of the Lef-1 gene is increased by Wnt-mediated TCF4/β-catenin activation on the Lef-1 promoter through mechanisms that remain poorly defined. In mouse airway submucosal gland progenitor cells, Wnt3A transiently induces Lef-1 gene expression, and this process is required for epithelial cell proliferation and glandular morphogenesis. In the present study, we sought to identify additional candidate transcriptional regulators of the Lef-1 gene during glandular morphogenesis. To this end, we found that Sox17 expression is dramatically downregulated in early glandular progenitor cells that induce Lef-1 expression. Wnt stimulation of undifferentiated primary airway epithelial cells induced similar changes in Sox17 and Lef-1 expression. Reporter assays revealed that ectopic expression of Sox17 suppresses Wnt3A/β-catenin activation of the Lef-1 promoter in cell lines. EMSA and ChIP analyses defined several Sox17- and TCF4-binding sites that collaborate in transcriptional control of the Lef-1 promoter. More specifically, Sox17 bound to four sites in the Lef-1 promoter, either directly or indirectly through TCF complexes. The DNA- or β-catenin-binding domains of Sox17 controlled context-specific binding of Sox17/TCF complexes on the Lef-1 promoter. Combinatorial site-directed mutagenesis of Sox17- or TCF-binding sites in the Lef-1 promoter demonstrated that these sites control Wnt/β-catenin-mediated induction and/or repression. These findings demonstrate for the first time that Sox17 can directly regulate Wnt/β-catenin-dependent transcription of the Lef-1 promoter and reveal new context-dependent binding sites in the Lef-1 promoter that facilitate protein-protein interactions between Sox17 and TCF4.
Acute ischemic injury to the renal microvasculature in human kidney transplantation
Authors: Snoeijs Maarten G. , Vink Hans , Voesten Niek , Christiaans Maarten H. , Daemen Jan-Willem H. , Peppelenbosch Arnoud G. , Tordoir Jan H. , Peutz-Kootstra Carine J. , Buurman Wim A. , Schurink Geert Willem H. , van Heurn L. W. Ernest
Published: September 2010

Increased understanding of the pathophysiology of ischemic acute kidney injury in renal transplantation may lead to novel therapies that improve early graft function. Therefore, we studied the renal microcirculation in ischemically injured kidneys from donors after cardiac death (DCD) and in living donor kidneys with minimal ischemia. During transplant surgery, peritubular capillaries were visualized by sidestream darkfield imaging. Despite a profound reduction in creatinine clearance, total renovascular resistance of DCD kidneys was similar to that of living donor kidneys. In contrast, renal microvascular perfusion in the early reperfusion period was 42% lower in DCD kidneys compared with living donor kidneys, which was accounted for by smaller blood vessel diameters in DCD kidneys. Furthermore, DCD kidneys were characterized by smaller red blood cell exclusion zones in peritubular capillaries and by greater production of syndecan-1 and heparan sulfate (main constituents of the endothelial glycocalyx) compared with living donor kidneys, providing strong evidence for glycocalyx degradation in these kidneys. We conclude that renal ischemia and reperfusion is associated with reduced capillary blood flow and loss of glycocalyx integrity. These findings form the basis for development of novel interventions to prevent ischemic acute kidney injury.
Suppression by Ghrelin ofPorphyromonas gingivalis-Induced Constitutive Nitric Oxide Synthase S-Nitrosylation and Apoptosis in Salivary Gland Acinar Cells
Authors: Slomiany Bronislaw L. , Slomiany Amalia
Published: September 2010

Oral mucosal inflammatory responses to periodontopathic bacterium,P. gingivalis, and its key virulence factor, LPS, are characterized by a massive rise in epithelial cell apoptosis and the disturbances in NO signaling pathways. Here, we report that the LPS-induced enhancement in rat sublingual salivary gland acinar cell apoptosis and NO generation was associated with the suppression in constitutive nitric oxide synthase (cNOS) activity and a marked increase in the activity of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). We demonstrate that the detrimental effect of the LPS on cNOS was manifested by the enzyme protein S-nitrosylation, that was susceptible to inhibition by iNOS inhibitor, 1400 W. Further, we show that a peptide hormone, ghrelin, countered the LPS-induced changes in apoptosis and cNOS activity. This effect of ghrelin was reflected in the decrease in cNOS S-nitrosylation and the increase in phosphorylation. Our findings imply thatP. gingivalis-induced disturbances in the acinar cell NO signaling pathways result from upregulation in iNOS-derived NO that causes cNOS S-nitrosylation that interferes with its activation through phosphorylation. We also show that ghrelin protection againstP. gingivalis-induced disturbances involves cNOS activation associated with a decrease in its S-nitrosylation and the increase in phosphorylation.
Using the Transcription Factor Inhibitor of DNA Binding 1 to Selectively Target Endothelial Progenitor Cells Offers Novel Strategies to Inhibit Tumor Angiogenesis and Growth
Authors: Mellick Albert S. , Plummer Prue N. , Nolan Daniel J. , Gao Dingcheng , Bambino Kathryn , Hahn Mary , Catena Raul , Turner Vivian , McDonnell Kevin , Benezra Robert , Brink Robert , Swarbrick Alexander , Mittal Vivek
Published: September 2010

Tumor angiogenesis is essential for malignant growth and metastasis. Bone marrow (BM)–derived endothelial progenitor cells (EPC) contribute to angiogenesis-mediated tumor growth. EPC ablation can reduce tumor growth; however, the lack of a marker that can track EPCs from the BM to tumor neovasculature has impeded progress in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying EPC biology. Here, we report the use of transgenic mouse and lentiviral models to monitor the BM-derived compartment of the tumor stroma; this approach exploits the selectivity of the transcription factor inhibitor of DNA binding 1 (Id1) for EPCs to track EPCs in the BM, blood, and tumor stroma, as well as mature EPCs. Acute ablation of BM-derived EPCs using Id1-directed delivery of a suicide gene reduced circulating EPCs and yielded significant defects in angiogenesis-mediated tumor growth. Additionally, use of the Id1 proximal promoter to express microRNA-30–based short hairpin RNA inhibited the expression of critical EPC-intrinsic factors, confirming that signaling through vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 is required for EPC-mediated tumor biology. By exploiting the selectivity of Id1 gene expression in EPCs, our results establish a strategy to track and target EPCs in vivo, clarifying the significant role that EPCs play in BM-mediated tumor angiogenesis. Cancer Res; 70(18); 7273–82. ©2010 AACR.
The Promise of MicroRNA Replacement Therapy
Authors: Bader Andreas G. , Brown David , Winkler Matthew
Published: September 2010

MicroRNAs (miRNA), a class of natural RNA-interfering agents, have recently been identified as attractive targets for therapeutic intervention. The rationale for developing miRNA therapeutics is based on the premise that aberrantly expressed miRNAs play key roles in the development of human disease, and that correcting these miRNA deficiencies by either antagonizing or restoring miRNA function may provide a therapeutic benefit. Although miRNA antagonists are conceptually similar to other inhibitory therapies, restoring the function of a miRNA by miRNA replacement is a less well characterized approach. Here, we discuss the specific properties of miRNA replacement and review recent examples that explored the therapeutic delivery of miRNA mimics in animal models of cancer. Cancer Res; 70(18); 7027–30. ©2010 AACR.
The Prison of the Future? An Evaluation of an Innovative Prison Design in the Netherlands
Authors: Kenis Patrick , Kruyen Peter M. , Baaijens Joan , Barneveld Peter
Published: August 2010

In this article, the authors present an evaluation of a new high-tech jail in the Netherlands. The prison is build around a number of significant innovations, such as inmates staying in six-person cells, inmates wearing electronic wristbands to track their movements, and guards being equipped with handheld devices to monitor trouble. According to the public authorities, the prison is seen as the future of correctional facilities: cheap and efficient, while at the same time not coddling criminals or violating their fundamental rights. The subject of the present study is employee effectiveness and safety in this new type of prison.
Nonfatal Violence-Related and Accident-Related Injuries Among Jail Inmates in the United States
Authors: Sung Hung-En
Published: August 2010

Traumatic injuries undermine the physical well-being of jail inmates and could complicate their reentry process. This study assessed the prevalence, nature, and risk factors of violence- and accident-related injuries among jail inmates in the United States. Data from the 2002 Survey of Inmates in Local Jails ( N = 6,982) were analyzed. Findings showed that injury as a health problem posed an urgent challenge to jail administration and was associated with an identified set of risks, many of them susceptible to preventive interventions. Unlike many preexisting health conditions, injury can be proactively controlled by jail authorities and its negative effects can be successfully reduced with community partnerships.