bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Innovative Anti-Seismic Systems for Civil and Industrial Structures: New Achievements of ENEA
Authors: Forni M. , Martelli A. , Poggianti A. , Spadoni B. , Venturi G. , Bortolotti C. , Cesari G. F. , Sobrero E. , Welponer A. , De Canio G. , Antonucci R. , Marioni A. , Battaini M.
Published: May 2010

As described at previous ASME-PVP Conferences, large efforts have been devoted by the Italian Agency for New Technology, Energy and the Environment (ENEA), with the cooperation of several further members of the Italian Working Group on Seismic Isolation (GLIS), to the development, validation and application of innovative anti-seismic (IAS) techniques since 1988. Considered have been base and floor seismic isolation systems, energy dissipation systems consisting of various types of passive devices (elastic-plastic, viscous, visco-elastic and electro-inductive dampers), hydraulic coupling systems using innovative shock transmitters, systems formed by shape memory alloy devices and more recently, semi-active control systems of vibrations. New activities at ENEA, which are in progress in the framework of both international and national collaborations, concern the development of new IAS systems of the aforesaid kinds to be applied to: • civil structures (bridges, viaducts and buildings of various types) and industrial plants, in both cases to be constructed or seismically retrofitted; • cultural heritage to be restored or reconstructed, or masterpieces to be seismically protected. This paper focuses on the progress of the studies concerning the first kind of structures (SPIDER, SPACE, ALGA-DECS and ISI Projects), while that for cultural heritage has been dealt with in a separate paper presented at this Conference. In addition, some new projects involving ENEA, which were recently proposed to the European Commission and Italian Ministry for the Environment, are mentioned. The ENEA activities being performed for the above-mentioned projects take advantage of the collaboration of the Universities of Bologna and Ancona and “Studio Antonucci” consulting office. The most recent results of the numerical and experimental studies confirm the adequacy and benefits of the proposed systems for the construction or retrofit the various types of considered structures. Finally, it is worthwhile stressing that two further separate papers presented at this Conference deal with the main features and results of the 7th International Seminar on Seismic Isolation, Passive Energy Dissipation and Active Control of Vibrations of Structures (Assisi, Italy, October 2–5, 2001), which was organized by GLIS with the support of ENEA, and the series of films on the IAS techniques which have been produced in the framework of the MUSICA Project.
Development and Application of Innovative Anti-Seismic Systems for the Protection of Cultural Heritage: New Achievements of ENEA
Authors: Indirli M. , Forni M. , Martelli A. , Spadoni B. , Dusi A. , Alessandri C. , Bertocchi A. , Cami R. , Baratta A. , Procaccio A. , Carpani B. , Clemente P. , Mucciarella M.
Published: May 2010

As described in detail at previous ASME-PVP Conferences and also reminded by separate papers presented this year, large efforts have been devoted by the Italian Agency for New Technology, Energy and the Environment (ENEA), with the cooperation of several further members of the Italian Working Group on Seismic Isolation (GLIS), to the development, validation and application of innovative anti-seismic (IAS) techniques since 1988. To date, considered have been base and floor seismic isolation (SI), energy dissipation through various types of passive devices, hydraulic coupling by means of innovative shock transmitters, systems formed by shape memory alloy devices and more recently, semi-active control of vibrations. New activities at ENEA, which are in progress in the framework of both international and national collaborations, concern the development of new IAS techniques of the aforesaid kinds to be applied to: • civil structures and industrial plants; • cultural heritage structures (CUHESs) to be restored or reconstructed, or masterpieces to be seismically protected. Progress of the work performed for civil and industrial structures has been separately presented at this Conference, while this paper deals with the new development, validation and application activities concerning the IAS techniques applicable to the seismic protection of CUHESs, to which particular attention has been devoted by ENEA for several years. The ongoing activities for CUHESs are being performed in the framework of: • PROSEESM, a national project which foresees pilot applications of the IAS techniques to the restoration of CUHESs damaged by the 1997–98 Marche and Umbria earthquakes; • a feasibilily study for the reconstruction in the original site, with SI and the original masonry materials, of Mevale di Visso, a village in the Marche Region destroyed by the aforesaid event; • a study for the design and application of an innovative three-dimensional SI system for seismic and ambient vibration protection of a roman ship excavated at Ercolano, near Naples.
Model of Transmission Tower-Pile-Soil Dynamic Interaction Under Earthquake: In-Plane
Authors: Li Hong-Nan , Xiao Shi-Yun , Wang Su-Yan
Published: May 2010

In this paper, the mechanical model of Soil-Pile-Structure interaction of transmission tower-cable system in in-plane is presented and the corresponding equations of motion are derived, in which the nonlinear characteristics of soil is included in the dynamic time history analysis. The computer program for the system is complied and used to calculate the earthquake response of an actual transmission tower. The results of numerical calculation are compared with and without considering soil-pile-structure interactions, which show that the dynamic interaction should be taken into account in the soft foundation.
Development of Damper for Vibration Control of Detached Houses
Authors: Shimoda Ikuo , Shiki Kazuaki , Tanaka Go
Published: May 2010

By using a damper at the relation story for detached houses, the damping effects for compression side decrease. The reason is that the compressive force is dissipated by deformation, for example, by bending in case of using a brace. So that, the damper was developed that exercise efforts in the tensile direction only, with automatic stroke return. By using this damper, the design for the brace become easier because the action of the tensile force is the only consideration. The damper uses Binghum Material with the unique physical property. It allows the energy dissipation and the self restoration to operate as one without a complex mechanism. The real scaled damper was designed applicable to detached houses. It has rated reaction force of 20kN and maximum stroke of 50mm. And the loading test was performed two patterns. One was only the damper in the static and the dynamic condition, another was steel frame with the damper. The results showed that this damper has made possible easier design for the brace, construction and the highly effective for the vibration control of detached houses.
Seismic Isolation Design Code for Highway Bridges
Authors: Kawashima Kazuhiko , Unjoh Shigeki
Published: May 2010

This paper presents the seismic isolation design code for highway bridges. This is based on the 1996 Design Specifications for Highway Bridges, Part. V: Seismic Design, issued by the Japan Road Association in December 1996. This paper focuses on the outlines of the seismic isolation design code including the seismic design basic principles, design ground motion, and seismic isolation design.
Fundamental Study of Active Mass Damper for Improving Livability of Houses Against Traffic Vibration: Substantiation Test
Authors: Hasegawa Osamu , Okabe Jyunji , Higashida Toyohiko , Matsumoto Yukito
Published: May 2010

In Japan, there are many houses built in limited space as well as in close proximity to causeways and railroads, due mainly to concentration of population in the cities in recent years. Slender structures and especially 3-story houses are susceptible to vibration induced by external forces such as traffic. This effect often creates an uncomfortable environment for habitation. Because houses often have a complex geometry, it is difficult to establish the vibration characteristics of a structure. Furthermore, the response characteristics of a house will change with environmental conditions. A prototype Active Mass Damper (AMD) has been developed to address some of these issues. This has been tested in an exhibition house in Tokyo. It uses two AMD’s of 1,725N mass each for both X-axis and Y-axis. Both AMD’s are applied in X and Y directions and are installed at RooF level, they are controlled by Direct Displacement Feedback (DDFB). The test showed that the AMD could dramatically reduce vibration. Of particular note was reduction about 6dB to 8dB (L10) in the first mode of vibration even though the house mass is double the prototype target weight. Also, vibration was dramatically decreased by the AMD on 3rd floor of the house. Vibration level and comfort are important criteria for this kind of system.
Seismic Proving Test of Ultimate Piping Strength: Ultimate Strength Test
Authors: Suzuki Kenichi , Abe H. , Suzuki Kohei
Published: May 2010

The proving test of a large-scale piping system with a piping bore of 200A (8B) and made from carbon steel material was conducted to assure the safety margin of the current and new design codes for piping. Two test models were used, one for the design method confirmation test and one for the ultimate strength test. The design method confirmation test model reflected the structural features and vibration characteristics of piping systems. For the ultimate strength test, the piping system was modified by adding one more mass and removing one horizontal support. The original seismic wave to the input seismic wave was selected to be the “S2” seismic wave for a PWR building. The time-pitch and the excitation level were then modified to meet the test conditions. For the ultimate strength test, a series of tests was initiated at a pseudo-elastic design stress level of about 9 times the current allowable primary stress limit (3Sm) for the “S2” seismic wave, and repeated until the occurrence of piping failure due to through-wall fatigue cracking was obtained during Run 5 of seismic shaking. Pre-test and post-test analyses were performed. The post-test analysis results, which assessed certain differences of actual input acceleration, damping ratio, mass distribution and fatigue damage, compare well with the ultimate strength test results of elasto-plastic global response, local strain and the number of runs to piping failure.
Component Test of the Full Scale MFPS Base Isolator
Authors: Tsai C. S. , Chiang Tsu-Cheng , Chen Bo-Jen , Chen Mei-Jou
Published: May 2010

In recent years, there have been more and more engineering applications of the base isolation to enhance the seismic resistibility of the existing structures. The elastomeric base isolator and the sliding base isolator are the most popular types in the engineering applications. In this paper, the experimental results for the component test of the full scale multiple friction pendulum system (MFPS) have been introduced. The MFPS base isolator is a base isolator which possesses characteristics of the elastomeric and sliding type base isolators. The effectiveness of the device in reducing the seismic response of structures during earthquakes has been confirmed from the experimental results of the shaking table tests. In order to test the mechanical behavior of a full scale MFPS base isolator, the component tests of the device subjected axial loads of 500 tons, 900 tons and horizontally cyclic loadings have been executed. The experimental results show that the MFPS base isolator has a very stable mechanical behavior under many cycles of loadings. Hence, the durability of the MFPS base isolator can be proved from these experimental results.
Stepping Back; Moving Forward
Authors: Hanson Brooks
Published: May 2010

The controversial e-mails related to climate change, plus reported errors in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reports, have spurred a dangerous deterioration in the rational relation between science and society. One U.S. senator has called 17 prominent climate scientists criminals, and pundits have suggested that climate scientists should commit suicide. Fourteen U.S. states have filed lawsuits opposing the federal regulation of greenhouse gas emissions, some asserting that “climate change science is a conspiracy.” South Dakota even resolved that there are other “astrological” forcings on climate. Scientists have been barraged by hateful e-mails. The debate has become polarized, and the distrust of scientists and their findings extends well beyond climate science. What can be done to repair society's trust in science? A broader perspective is needed on all sides.
Peering Over a Cliff at the Poststimulus World
Authors: Kaiser Jocelyn
Published: May 2010

When last year's 2-year stimulus grants run out in 2011, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) could end up with the lowest grant funding rates in its history. Last week, in his first budget defense as NIH director before a House of Representatives Appropriations subcommittee, Francis Collins was asked about the poststimulus problem.
Report Seeks Expansion in a Time of Belt-Tightening
Authors: Mervis Jeffrey
Published: May 2010

A new report that urges the U.S. government to spend billions more on graduate education while scolding universities for not doing enough to attract and mentor the students who would earn those degrees flies in the face of current fiscal realities.
Computer Kid Makes Good
Authors: Pennisi Elizabeth
Published: May 2010

Everyone involved in the Neandertal sequencing project at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology stresses the teamwork involved in sequencing the Neandertal genome. And yet Richard "Ed" Green, the postdoctoral fellow in charge, still stands out.
Unraveling a Riddle in Plain Sight
Authors: Stone Richard
Published: May 2010

Amateur archaeologist Frédérique Darragon has spent 12 years documenting hundreds of mysterious towers in Southwest China—and winning over skeptical academics.
Rapid Emergence of Protease Inhibitor Resistance in Hepatitis C Virus
Authors: Rong Libin , Dahari Harel , Ribeiro Ruy M. , Perelson Alan S.
Published: May 2010

Computational modeling suggests that the rapid emergence of resistance to drugs against hepatitis C virus is a result of preexisting resistant virus and potent suppression of wild-type virus.
Delayed Addition of Glucocorticoids Selectively Suppresses Cytokine Production in Stimulated Human Whole Blood
Authors: Horton Devin L. , Remick Daniel G.
Published: May 2010

Glucocorticoids (GC) are potent drugs proven to effectively treat inflammatory diseases, although patients typically begin therapy after the onset of symptoms. Clinical studies with cytokine inhibitors prove that these mediators drive inflammatory responses in diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease. Despite the clear sequence of cytokine-induced inflammation followed by effective GC treatment, most basic science investigations have examined the ability of GC to prevent an inflammatory response rather than halt its progression. The current studies used the Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) agonist palmitoyl3-cysteine-serine-lysine4(PAM) or the TLR4 agonist lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to stimulate human whole blood and determine whether postponing the addition of the GC dexamethasone (DEX) limits its ability to decrease cytokine production. Twenty-four hours after stimulation, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, and IL-8 levels were measured, in addition to the cytokine inhibitors IL-1 soluble receptor II (SRII), IL-1 receptor antagonist, and TNF SRII. LPS rapidly induced all of the proinflammatory mediators over 24 h while failing to induce any of the cytokine inhibitors. PAM stimulation also induced IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8. Concomitant addition of DEX plus LPS or PAM significantly suppressed all cytokine levels. Delaying the addition of DEX until 6 h after LPS stimulation failed to decrease TNF or IL-6. In contrast, delayed DEX addition significantly suppressed PAM-induced IL-1β, IL-6, or IL-8 and also suppressed LPS-induced IL-1β and IL-8. Our results show that cytokines which typically increase in concentration between 6 and 24 h after stimulation were significantly suppressed by the addition of DEX 6 h after stimulation.
Oropharyngeal Colonization of HIV-Infected Outpatients in Taiwan by Yeast Pathogens
Authors: Yang Yun-Liang , Hung Chien-Ching , Wang An-Huei , Tseng Fan-Chen , Leaw Shiang Ning , Tseng Yu-Tzu , Su Chia-Li , Chen Hui-Ting , Lauderdale Tsai-Ling , Lo Hsiu-Jung
Published: May 2010

Among 234 isolates comprising 26 different
Candida
species colonizing the oropharynx of 181 (54.3% of 399 surveyed) HIV-infected outpatients, 27 (11.7%) were fluconazole resistant. Antibacterial treatment was associated with increased rates of yeast colonization, while antiretroviral therapy and pneumococcal vaccination protected patients from yeast colonization.
First Report of Bloodstream Infection Caused by
Pseudomonas fulva
Authors: Seok Yoonmi , Shin Heebong , Lee Yangsoon , Cho Injoo , Na Sungwon , Yong Dongeun , Jeong Seok Hoon , Lee Kyungwon
Published: May 2010

Pseudomonas fulva
has not yet been isolated from humans as a pathogen. Herein, we report the first case of
P. fulva
bacteremia in a patient hospitalized due to trauma. The species was identified using biochemical and molecular genetic analyses of the 16S rRNA,
gyrB
,
rpoB
, and
rpoD
genes.
Pseudo-Outbreak of
Cupriavidus pauculus
Infection at an Outpatient Clinic Related to Rinsing Culturette Swabs in Tap Water
Authors: Balada-Llasat Joan-Miquel , Elkins Camille , Swyers Lettie , Bannerman Tammy , Pancholi Preeti
Published: May 2010

Cupriavidus pauculus
is a water microorganism rarely isolated from clinical specimens. We describe a pseudo-outbreak in which multiple strains that were associated with moistening of culturette swabs with tap water were isolated from a single clinic before collecting the patient specimen.
Downregulation of CDKN1A in Adult T-Cell Leukemia/Lymphoma despite Overexpression of CDKN1A in Human T-Lymphotropic Virus 1-Infected Cell Lines
Authors: Watanabe Masaaki , Nakahata Shingo , Hamasaki Makoto , Saito Yusuke , Kawano Yohei , Hidaka Tomonori , Yamashita Kiyoshi , Umeki Kazumi , Taki Tomohiko , Taniwaki Masafumi , Okayama Akihiko , Morishita Kazuhiro
Published: May 2010

Human T-lymphotropic virus 1 (HTLV-1) causes an aggressive malignancy of T lymphocytes called adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL), and expression of HTLV-1 Tax influences cell survival, proliferation, and genomic stability in the infected T lymphocytes. Cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1A (CDKN1A/p21
waf1/Cip1
) is upregulated by Tax, without perturbation of cell cycle control. During an analysis of the gene expression profiles of ATLL cells, we found very low expression of
CDKN1A
in ATLL-derived cell lines and ATLL cells from patient samples, and epigenetic abnormalities including promoter methylation are one of the mechanisms for the low
CDKN1A
expression in ATLL cells. Three HTLV-1-infected cell lines showed high levels of expression of both
CDKN1A
and
Tax
, but expression of
CDKN1A
was detected in only two of six ATLL-derived cell lines. In both the HTLV-1-infected and ATLL cell lines, we found that activated Akt phosphorylates CDKN1A at threonine 145 (T145), leading to cytoplasmic localization of CDKNIA. In HTLV-1-infected cell lines, cytoplasmic CDKN1A did not inhibit the cell cycle after UV irradiation; however, following treatment with LY294002, a PI3K inhibitor, CDKN1A was dephosphorylated and relocalized to the nucleus, resulting in suppression of the cell cycle. In the ATLL cell lines, treatment with LY294002 did not inhibit the cell cycle but induced apoptosis with the cytoplasmic localization. Therefore, the low
CDKN1A
expression in ATLL cells may be a key player in ATLL leukemogenesis, and the abnormal genomic methylation may influence the expression of not only HTLV-1
Tax
but also
CDKN1A
during long-term development of ATLL from the HTLV-1-infected T lymphocytes.
Multiple Vaccine-Elicited Nonneutralizing Antienvelope Antibody Activities Contribute to Protective Efficacy by Reducing both Acute and Chronic Viremia following Simian/Human Immunodeficiency Virus SHIV89.6PChallenge in Rhesus Macaques
Authors: Xiao Peng , Zhao Jun , Patterson L. Jean , Brocca-Cofano Egidio , Venzon David , Kozlowski Pamela A. , Hidajat Rachmat , Demberg Thorsten , Robert-Guroff Marjorie
Published: May 2010

We have shown that following priming with replicating adenovirus type 5 host range mutant (Ad5hr)-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) recombinants, boosting with gp140 envelope protein enhances acute-phase protection against intravenous simian/human immunodeficiency virus (SHIV)89.6Pchallenge compared to results with priming and no boosting or boosting with an HIV polypeptide representing the CD4 binding site of gp120. We retrospectively analyzed antibodies in sera and rectal secretions from these same macaques, investigating the hypothesis that vaccine-elicited nonneutralizing antibodies contributed to the better protection. Compared to other immunized groups or controls, the gp140-boosted group exhibited significantly greater antibody activities mediating antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and antibody-dependent cell-mediated viral inhibition (ADCVI) in sera and transcytosis inhibition in rectal secretions. ADCC and ADCVI activities were directly correlated with antibody avidity, suggesting the importance of antibody maturation for functionality. Both ADCVI and percent ADCC killing prechallenge were significantly correlated with reduced acute viremia. The latter, as well as postchallenge ADCVI and ADCC, was also significantly correlated with reduced chronic viremia. We have previously demonstrated induction by the prime/boost regimen of mucosal antibodies that inhibit transcytosis of SIV across an intact epithelial cell layer. Here, antibody in rectal secretions was significantly correlated with transcytosis inhibition. Importantly, the transcytosis specific activity (percent inhibition/total secretory IgA and IgG) was strongly correlated with reduced chronic viremia, suggesting that mucosal antibody may help control cell-to-cell viral spread during the course of infection. Overall, the replicating Ad5hr-HIV/SIV priming/gp140 protein boosting approach elicited strong systemic and mucosal antibodies with multiple functional activities associated with control of both acute and chronic viremia.
Forensic DNA databases: genetic testing as a societal choice
Authors: Patyn Annemie , Dierickx Kris
Published: May 2010

In this brief report, the authors argue that while a lot of concerns about forensic DNA databases have been raised using arguments from biomedical ethics, these databases are used in a complete different context from other biomedical tools. Because they are used in the struggle against crime, the decision to create or store a genetic profile cannot be left to the individual. Instead, this decision is made by officials of a society. These decisions have to be based on a policy that is the concretisation of some of society's most fundamental ideas about its own nature and function. Individuals wanting to influence these decisions have to try to influence this policy, within the bounds of a state's own self-concept. This article is an attempt to reorient the discussion about forensic DNA databases from a biomedical debate to a more political–philosophical one.
Occupational exposure to solvents and risk of lymphoma subtypes: results from the Epilymph case–control study
Authors: Cocco P , t'Mannetje A , Fadda D , Melis M , Becker N , de Sanjosé S , Foretova L , Mareckova J , Staines A , Kleefeld S , Maynadié M , Nieters A , Brennan P , Boffetta P
Published: May 2010

Background

Several studies have suggested an association between occupational exposure to solvents and lymphoma risk. However, findings are inconsistent and the role of specific chemicals is not known.

Objective

To investigate the role of occupational exposure to organic solvents in the aetiology of B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (B-NHL) and its major subtypes, as well as Hodgkin's lymphoma and T-cell lymphoma.

Methods

2348 lymphoma cases and 2462 controls participated in a case–control study in six European countries. A subset of cases were reviewed by a panel of pathologists to ensure diagnostic consistency. Exposure to solvents was assessed by industrial hygienists and occupational experts based on a detailed occupational questionnaire.

Results

Risk of follicular lymphoma significantly increased with three independent metrics of exposure to benzene, toluene and xylene (BTX) (combined p=4×10−7) and to styrene (p=1×10−5), and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) risk increased with exposure to solvents overall (p=4×10−6), BTX (p=5×10−5), gasoline (p=8×10−5) and other solvents (p=2×10−6). Risk of B-NHL for ever exposure to solvents was not elevated (OR=1.1, 95% CI 1.0 to 1.3), and that for CLL and follicular lymphoma was 1.3 (95% CI 1.1 to 1.6) and 1.3 (95% CI 1.0 to 1.7), respectively. Exposure to benzene accounted, at least partially, for the association observed with CLL risk. Hodgkin's lymphoma and T-cell lymphoma did not show an association with solvent exposure.

Conclusion

This analysis of a large European dataset confirms a role of occupational exposure to solvents in the aetiology of B-NHL, and particularly, CLL. It is suggested that benzene is most likely to be implicated, but we cannot exclude the possibility of a role for other solvents in relation to other lymphoma subtypes, such as follicular lymphoma. No association with risk of T-cell lymphoma and Hodgkin's lymphoma was shown.
Prevalence of burnout syndrome among medical residents: experience of a developing country
Authors: Ashkar Khalil , Romani Maya , Musharrafieh Umayya , Chaaya Monique
Published: May 2010

Background

It has been well established that burnout, defined as emotional exhaustion (EE), de-personalisation (DP), and a ‘decreased sense of personal accomplishment (PA) due to work related stress’, is prevalent to a great extent among medical residents. This has been implicated in the delivery of suboptimal patient care. Residents in developing countries work under difficult working and social conditions and therefore examining burnout is important when addressing quality of care and working conditions.

Objectives

The objectives of the study were to assess the point prevalence of burnout among residents in Lebanon and investigate some of the work and non-work related factors associated with burnout.

Methods

A cross sectional study of all medical residents was carried out in two major hospitals in the capital city. A total of 155 residents responded, representing all specialities. Maslach Burnout Inventory for Health Services Workers (MBI-HSS) was used. Burnout in three domains was dichotomised into high versus not high burnout.

Results

The prevalence of burnout was high in all the domains with the highest in the domain of emotional exhaustion (67.7%). 80% of the sample had a high level of burnout in at least one domain. Being female, experiencing a major stress, working for more than 80 h per week, and having more than eight calls per month increased the odds of burnout in at least one domain.

Conclusions

The high burnout level calls for action. This could be addressed by re-examining workload and other working conditions of residents as well as attending to their psychological wellbeing. The limitations of the study are also discussed.
Purine metabolism in Neisseria gonorrhoeae: the requirement for hypoxanthine
Authors: Morse Stephen A. , Bartenstein Lynne
Published: May 2010

Strains isolated from disseminated gonococcal infections often require hypoxanthine for growth. The biochemical bases for the requirement for hypoxanthine in strains isolated from both disseminated (Ile−Val−Arg−Hyx−Ura−phenotype) and non-disseminated (Hyx−phenotype) infections were compared. The requirement for hypoxanthine was dependent upon the composition of the growth medium. In a complete defined medium, hypoxanthine was replaced by a mixture of adenine and guanine but not by either purine alone. The addition of adenine alone inhibited gonococcal growth. This inhibition was reversed by the addition of guanine and most likely resulted from an inhibition of de novo purine biosynthesis. In a histidine-free medium, adenine replaced the hypoxanthine requirement in Ile−Val−Arg−Hyx−Ura− strains. Adenine did not replace the hypoxanthine requirement in Hyx− strains. The Ile−Val−Arg−Hyx−Ura− strains exhibited a markedly reduced rate of de novo purine biosynthesis while Hyx− strains were blocked in this pathway. In vivo concentrations of purines are important factors which may limit the intracellular or extracellular growth of these strains.
Morphogenesis and wall chemistry of the yeast, "intermediate," and hyphal phases of the dimorphic fungus, Mycotypha poitrasii
Authors: Cole Garry T. , Sekiya Takashi , Kasai Reiko , Nozawa Yoshinori
Published: May 2010

When Mycotypha poitrasii(Zygomycetes) is grown under standard conditions in liquid culture containing 1% polypeptone, 0.5% yeast extract, and variable glucose concentrations (0–6%), it displays mycelial–yeast conversion. "Intermediate" cells, isolated from cultures containing 2% glucose, are considered to represent a developmental phase in the process of morphogenesis. Distinct differences in the morphology and wall chemistry of the intermediate cells were demonstrated when compared to the yeast and hyphal forms. It is suggested that the trends evident from these comparative analyses reflect relationships between the alterations in cell wall chemistry and morphogenetic aspects of dimorphism.
Nutrient-limited yeast growth in Candida albicans: effect on yeast-mycelial transition
Authors: Bell William M. , Chaffin W. LaJean
Published: May 2010

The yeast-mycelial transition in Candida albicans can be induced from yeast cells grown on minimal defined medium only in stationary phase. This study examined the inducibility of cultures in which growth was limited by the availability of the nutrients, glucose, NH4Cl, or galactose. The results showed that neither stationary phase nor cell cycle stage alone was a sufficient condition to support subsequent germ tube formation. In addition, final cell concentration alone was not a factor in inducibility. When a hundredfold decrease in growth was obtained by limiting any of the nutrients, a loss in inducibility was observed. However, the loss of inducibility differed with the limiting nutrient. Galactose, NH4Cl, and glucose-limited cultures showed respectively 15, 30, and 80% loss of inducibility. Thus the effect was associated with both carbon/energy and nitrogen-limited cells; however, glucose appeared to have a specific effect. These observations suggest that the metabolic state of the stationary phase yeast cell was an important factor in the subsequent ability to respond to conditions inducing germ tube formation.
Isolation and preliminary characterization of herpes Channel Catfish virus DNA
Authors: Robin Jean , Rodrigue Alice
Published: May 2010

The DNA of Channel Catfish virus (CCV) was selectively extracted from infected cells with a 5% solution of sodium deoxycholate, deproteinized using sodium sarcosinate and pronase, and purified by phenol extraction followed by equilibrium density gradient centrifugation in a cesium chloride solution. CCV DNA displays a buoyant density of 1.715 g/cm3 in such a solution, as would be expected from a duplex DNA containing 56.1% of guanine plus cytosine. As estimated from both its sedimentation coefficient and length in the electron microscope, CCV DNA is a linear duplex molecule of approximately 85 × 106 daltons.
Immunofluorescence of Aeromonas hydrophila as measured by fluorescence photometric microscopy
Authors: Fliermans C. B. , Hazen T. C.
Published: May 2010

Strain-specific fluorescent antibodies were prepared for three isolates of Aeromonas hydrophila. These antisera were reacted with 255 other A. hydrophila isolates, and their immunofluorescence was measured quantitatively by photometric fluorescence microscopy. Only 27.5% of the isolates reacted with the prepared antisera which indicated that other undetected serogroups are present. Statistical analyses indicated that the A. hydrophila isolated from aquatic habitats were distinct from the other isolates as measured by immunofluorescence.
Effects of lipids, fatty acids, and other detergents on bacterial utilization of hexadecane
Authors: Breuil Colette , Kushner Donn J.
Published: May 2010

Fatty acids, lipids, and detergents affected hexadecane utilization by Acinetobaeter lwoffi and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Long-chain fatty acids (palmitic, oleic, and stearic) stimulated hexadecane utilization, as did triglycerides (tripalmitin, trioctanoin, trilaurin, and olive oil), lecithin, lysolecithin, hexadecanol, and wax esters (palmityl palmitate and palmityl stearate). Hexadecane in turn stimulated the utilization of tripalmitin for growth by A. lwoffi. Propionic acid caused diauxic growth, apparently being utilized before hexadecane. Isobutyric acid was not used for growth and inhibited hexadecane utilization. Caprylic and lauric acids, octan-2-ol, and phenethyl alcohol inhibited hexadecane utilization. The detergents Triton X-100, Brij 35, and FL-70 were not themselves used for growth, but stimulated growth on hexadecane.In A. lwoffi, palmitic acid suppressed diauxic growth on a mixture of ethanol and hexadecane if added while ethanol was being oxidized, but not if added subsequently. Lecithin also suppressed diauxic growth, but Triton X-100 did not, though it shortened the lag period before hexadecane utilization.Washed suspensions of cells grown on ethanol or hexadecane could not oxidize hexadecane unless Triton X-100 was also added. Then hexadecane-grown cells oxidized hexadecane about 3 times as fast as ethanol-grown cells. The results suggest that fatty acids and other lipids stimulate growth on hexadecane partly, but not solely, by acting as emulsifying agents. They may also act as inducers of enzymes necessary for hexadecane breakdown, or they may be incorporated into cell membranes and change their properties so that hexadecane can more readily enter the cells.
Microfilaments and cytoplasmic microtubules in cell division cycle mutants of Schizosaccharomyces pombe
Authors: Streiblová E. , Girbardt M.
Published: May 2010

The occurrence of axial cytoplasmic microtubules (25 nm in diameter) and of microfilaments (7 nm in diameter) associated in bundles just below the plasma membrane of the yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe is described. Both types of cytoplasmic filamentous structures were present in the cell division cycle mutant cdc 12–112 of this fungus incubated for 6 h at the restrictive temperature of 35 °C. Microtubules and microfilaments probably function in septum formation and (or) in the volume-related control of the terminal phenotype of the mutant.
Diagnosis of rotavirus, adenovirus, and herpesvirus infections by immune electron microscopy using a serum-in-agar diffusion method
Authors: Lamontagne L. , Marsolais G. , Marois P. , Assaf R.
Published: May 2010

The sensitivity of immune electron microscopy (IEM) for the detection and identification of bovine rotavirus, infectious bovine rhinotracheitis virus (IBR), and canine adenovirus has been studied by using the serum-in-agar (SIA) method in which a specific antiserum has been incorporated in agar.In comparison with standard electron microscopy, in which the viral suspensions are used undiluted, this method permits the detection of viral particles either isolated or in aggregates contained in suspensions diluted up to 100 times in the case of rotavirus and adenovirus, and up to 10 times for the herpesvirus suspensions.
The constitutive nature of alkaline phosphatase in rumen bacteria
Authors: Forsberg C. W. , Cheng K.-J.
Published: May 2010

Alkaline phosphatase (APase) activity of Megasphaera elsdenii was enhanced by PO42− limitation in batch culture; however, six other species of rumen bacteria tested showed no increase in APase activity under these conditions. Alkaline phosphatase was produced by the mixed rumen microflora even though the inorganic phosphorus concentration was as high as 10 mM. The APase activity of the bacterial fraction from rumen fluid was not increased during incubation in a phosphorus-free culture medium. Since bacteria may account for greater than 80% of the APase activity in the rumen, this would suggest that the bulk of the APase activity in the rumen is synthesized constitutively. The bacterium responsible for most of the APase activity probably is Bacteroides ruminicola.
Dynamique des populations planctoniques et bactériennes au cours d'une production expérimentale de phytoplancton marin naturel. II. Structure et physiologie des populations et leurs interactions
Authors: Lelong P. P. , Bianchi M. A. , Martin Y. P.
Published: May 2010

During the spring, an experiment was conducted on the production of natural phytoplankton in a continuous flow layout of large capacity, and an analysis was made of the simultaneous evolution of microplanktonic populations (taxonomic composition, diversity, class ranges, and energetic charge) and of bacterial populations (structure, diversity, dominances, and catabolic potentialities).Oligotrophic initial conditions were characterized by a poor (0.22 μg of chlorophyll a/L) and diversified (pigment diversity = 4.5) phytoplankton with nanoplanktonic dominance associated with several benthic type diatoms. Bacterial flora, in which pseudomonads were dominant (54.5%), were also diversified (Shannon index [Formula: see text]). Metabolic potentialities of these bacterial communities were several. Enrichment of the milieu caused the selection and development of a small number of algal species dominated by the diatoms Skeletonema costatum (64 × 106/L)and Chaetoceros (3.2 × 106/L) leading to a paucispecific population with a large biomass, a pigment diversity of 1.97, and a chlorophyll a concentration of 25.08 μg/L. The bacterial community then became diversified [Formula: see text] and, although pseudomonads remained dominant (62%), a larger use of organic micromolecules was noted.The establishment of this phytoplanktonic community was followed by a zooplanktonic development in which larger species succeeded smaller ones (ciliates, tintinnides, rotifers, and copepods) corresponding to the global increase of the phytobiomass. Although this system appeared to be in a phase of relative stability, a decrease in the energetic charge showed a disturbance in the physiological state of the planktonic populations. These phenomena led to the vanishing of the diatom's dominance (Chaetoceros, and then S. costatum) and its replacement by nanoplankton (123 × 106 cells/L) and dinoflagellates (300 00 cells/L). A modification in the organic wealth of the milieu with the addition of a particular complex material that was not or little degraded caused deep disturbances in the bacterial populations. Their diversity reached a very low level ([Formula: see text] to 2.25) with a proliferation of vibrions (up to 74%) well equipped with exoenzymes, but more restricted in their nutritional versatility (marked preference for organic macromolecules).During the final phase of experimentation, despite a change in qualitative composition and a more important biomass, microplanktonic and bacterial populations returned to a diversified state nearing that of the initial conditions (pigment diversity = 3.2; [Formula: see text]). [Journal translation]
Menadione reductase from Clostridium tyrobutyricum
Authors: Petitdemange H. , Marczak R. , Raval G. , Gay R.
Published: May 2010

Menadione reductase (EC 1.6.99.2) has been purified 67-fold from Clostridium tyrobutyricum extracts. The molecular weight was found to be 60 000 and the prosthetic group was identified as FMN on the basis of the enzymatic analysis data. The binding of FMN to the menadione dehydrogenase apoenzyme was relatively weak with an apparent Km value of 2.5 × 10−6 M.The enzyme exhibited group substrate specificity for compounds with a quinoid structure; naphthoquinones and benzoquinones without long carbon chain substituents were the most active. The reactivity of the enzyme with vitamin K1, coenzyme Q6, and cytochrome c was negligible and, with 2,6-dichlorophenol indophenol, relatively low.It was shown that the enzymatic reduction of menadione with the participation of either NADH or NADPH takes place by a "Ping-Pong" mechanism. The enzyme catalyzed the oxidation of NADH and NADPH at equal rates and was inhibited by dicumarol and p-chloromercuribenzoate.
Helical growth and macrofiber formation of Bacillus subtilis 168 autolytic enzyme deficient mutants
Authors: Fein Jared E.
Published: May 2010

Two poorly lytic, chain-forming mutants of Bacillus subtilis 168, strains FJ3 and FJ6, each 90–95% deficient in the production of N-acetylmuramoyl-L-alanine amidase and endo-β-N-acetylglucosaminidase, grew helically under a variety of cultural conditions. The structures formed ranged in complexity from double-stranded helices to complex aggregates of entangled and interwoven single chains and multistranded helical fibers. Factors favoring this type of helical growth were investigated. Occasional tight single-stranded corkscrewlike forms were detected in the mutant cultures. Two other poorly lytic mutant strains of Bacillus were also found to have helical growth capacity. These results have been interpreted as support for the recently proposed (1976) tension restricted helical growth model of Mendelson.
Metabolism of amphetamines by Mycobacterium smegmatis
Authors: Coutts Ronald T. , Foster Brian C.
Published: May 2010

Amphetamine and five N-alkylated homologues were readily metabolized by Mycobacterium smegmatis and the products obtained were identified by gas–liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. The N-alkyl substituent had a considerable influence on the degree and mechanism of biotransformation. With the exception of the N-isopropyl derivative, all of the N-alkylated homologues were dealkylated to amphetamine which was then conjugated to the N-acetyl derivative. The degree of N-oxygenation of these substrates was significantly different from that observed in mammalian and fungal systems where four products are generally recovered. Mycobacterium smegmatis N-oxygenation of amphetamine did not occur, whereas all N-alkylated amphetamines were converted to the corresponding nitrones or, in the case of methamphetamine, to 1-phenyl-2-propanone oxime. No other N-oxygenated products were isolated. Mycobacterium smegmatis metabolism of 1-phenyl-2-propanone oxime, N-hydroxyamphetamine. N-hydroxy-N-(n-propyl)amphetamine, and the nitrone, α-methyl-N-(n-propylidene) benzeneethanamine N-oxide, was also studied. Some hydrolysis of the oxime to 1-phenyl-2-propanone was observed. The other three substrates were metabolized to amphetamine and N-acetylamphetamine.
Methanethiol: a morphogenetic factor produced from L-methionine by Phomopsis viticola Sacc.
Authors: Pezet R. , Pont V.
Published: May 2010

Phomopsis viticola produces methanethiol on a synthetic medium enriched with L-methionine (MMGS). The growth rate is comparable, during 12 days of culture, to that on the same medium without L-methionine (MGS). Only sterile bodies are formed on MMGS and no pycnidia appeared. The morphogenetic effect of MMGS medium is attached to the volatile methanethiol produced from L-methionine introduced into the medium. This volatile product is identified using several different methods of analysis. The roles of the reactive sulfhydryl groups and of the metabolism of elemental sulfur of P. viticola in the differentiation processes are discussed.
Cooperation between herpes simplex virus specific α protein and host cell RNA polymerase II in the transcription of viral deoxypyrimidine kinase
Authors: Leung Wai-Choi
Published: May 2010

A cistron specific enzyme-forming capacity method was used to study the control of herpes simplex virus (HSV) specific deoxypyrimidine kinase (dPyK) mRNA synthesis. In this assay, the α (or immediately early) protein was required to effect the transcription of dPyK mRNA. However, the dPyK mRNA synthesis was sensitive to α-amanitin in α-amanitin sensitive cells and resistant to α-amanitin in α-amanitin resistant cells. The effective dose range of α-amanitin used and the genetic lesion in α-amanitin resistant cells suggested that cellular DNA-dependent RNA polymerase II was also involved in the transcription of dPyK. This study suggests that two components, the HSV α protein and the cellular RNA polymerase II, were required for dPyK mRNA synthesis.
Pyridine nucleotide levels and ratios in Aspergillus niger
Authors: Führer L. , Kubicek C. P. , Röhr M.
Published: May 2010

A reliable method for the extraction and assay of pyridine nucleotides (NAD, NADH, NADP, and NADPH) in filamentous fungi is presented. The method is applied to a study of the physiology of citric acid accumulation by Aspergillus niger. The measurement of "catabolic reduction charge" (NADH/(NAD + NADH)) and "anabolic reduction charge" (NADPH/(NADP + NADPH)) as a means of characterizing the metabolic state is discussed.
A streptomycete antagonist to Phellinus weirii, Fomes annosus, and Phytophthora cinnamomi
Authors: Rose Sharon L. , Li Ching-Yan , Hutchins Anita Stiebrs
Published: May 2010

An actinomycete isolated from the rhizoplane of nitrogen-fixing nodules of Ceanothus velutinus was identified as a variety of Streptomyces griseoloalbus. Streptomyces griseoloalbus is a strong antagonist to three destructive root pathogens, Phellinus weirii, Fomes annosus, and Phytophthora cinnamomi, inhibiting all three on several culture media and preventing establishment of F. annosus on hemlock wood disks. The stability and longevity of the antimicrobial substance produced by it, its consistent effect on the pathogens on all substrates, its ability to colonize wood, and its ability to grow at 10 °C suggest biological control possibilities for this organism in the Pacific Northwest.
Synthesis of DNA by Micrococcus luteus is resistant to 6-(p-hydroxyphenylazo)uracil
Authors: Tittle Thomas V. , Mayo John A. , Spitzer Wendy Pollock
Published: May 2010

The DNA synthesis inhibitor 6-(p-hydroxyphenylazo)uracil (HPUra), at concentrations ranging from 0.2 to 2000 μM, had essentially no effect on DNA synthesis in Micrococcus luteus strain ML-1. Seven other M. luteus strains were unaffected by 200 μM HPUra. In vitro DNA synthesis in toluene-treated M. luteus strain ML-1 was resistant to both HPUra and reduced HPUra.
Antigenic analysis of Pasteurella multocida (serotype 1) by crossed immunoelectrophoresis: characterization of cytoplasmic and cell envelope associated antigens
Authors: Bhasin J. L. , Lapointe-Shaw L.
Published: May 2010

The application of crossed immunoelectrophoresis to the analysis of a reference cytoplasm and cell envelope preparation from Pasteurella multocida serotype 1 revealed antigenic complexity not previously found. At least 55 cytoplasmic and 19 cell envelope antigens were clearly distinguished. Variation of anticytoplasm immunoglobulin concentration was a major determining factor in resolving the maximum array of cytoplasmic antigens.The use of intermediate gel modification of crossed immunoelectrophoresis permitted the recognition of antibodies in the preimmune rabbit serum against a number of cytoplasmic antigens and a single cell envelope antigen. This technique also demonstrated that reference cytoplasm obtained by 105 000 × g centrifugation of sonically disrupted pasteurellae and repeatedly washed reference cell envelope preparation contained antigens of either origin in amounts sufficient to elicit antibody responses in the host. Antisera to whole cells in the intermediate gel indicated that formalin killed P. multocida were capable of eliciting immune responses to both reference systems.