bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparison of Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Biphasic Insulin Aspart 30, 50, 70 and Pure Insulin Aspart: A Randomized, Quadruple Crossover Study
Authors: Thorisdottir Rannveig Linda , Parkner Tina , Chen Jian‐Wen , Ejskjær Niels , Christiansen Jens Sandahl
Published: January 2009

Abstract:  The purpose of this study was to evaluate pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles of pure insulin aspart and three different formulations of insulin aspart and protaminated insulin aspart: biphasic insulin aspart 30 (BIAsp30), biphasic insulin aspart 50 (BIAsp50) and biphasic insulin aspart 70 (BIAsp70). Nineteen type 1 diabetes patients received individually identical doses of the four different insulin aspart preparations on 4 separate days in this randomized crossover study. Having achieved overnight stable blood glucose control by intravenous infusions of human insulin, one of the trial insulins was injected subcutaneously and a standard meal was given in the morning. Plasma glucose and serum insulin aspart were recorded the following 12 hr. During the first 4 hr after injection with the trial insulin, the area under the curve for levels of insulin aspart (AUCins) was significantly higher during insulin aspart treatment as compared to the other three insulin treatments, followed by BIAsp70, BIAsp50 and BIAsp30 (P < 0.05). Over the last 4 hr, the AUCins for BIAsp30 was significantly higher as compared to the other insulin preparations (P < 0.05). By contrast, during the initial 4 hr, the area under the curve for levels of glucose (AUCglu) was highest after injection with BIAsp30 compared to the other three treatments (P < 0.05), while during the last 4 hr the highest AUCglu was seen following insulin aspart (P < 0.05). We conclude that when insulin aspart is pure or formulated with protamine in three different ratios, the pharmacokinetic profiles are readily distinguishable. These differences in pharmacokinetics are reflected in the pharmacodynamic profiles.
Effects of Rutin on Lipid Profile in Hypercholesterolaemic Rats
Authors: Ziaee Amir , Zamansoltani Farzaneh , Nassiri‐Asl Marjan , Abbasi Esmail
Published: January 2009

Abstract: Rutin (3, 3′, 4′, 5, 7‐pentahydrohyflavone‐3‐rhamnoglucoside) is a flavonoid of the flavonol type. Rutin is found in many plants and is also an important dietary constituent of food and plant‐based beverages. Rutin has several pharmacological properties including antioxidant and cardioprotective activities. Also, it was identified that rutin is the major low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) antioxidant compound of mulberry in anin vitrostudy. The effects of rutin were tested by using it as a supplement in a high‐cholesterol diet. Male rats were fed a high‐cholesterol diet (1 ml/100 g) for 4 weeks with rutin (10 or 100 mg/kg) or rutin 100 mg/kg and lovastatin supplementation to study the hypocholesterolaemic effects of rutin on plasma lipid levels, hepatic enzyme activity, and liver tissue. Feeding the animals a high‐cholesterol diet resulted in marked hypercholesterolaemia and increased the serum level of LDL cholesterol (LDL‐C). Rutin (at 100 mg/kg) alone or in combination with lovastatin significantly reduced the levels of total cholesterol, and LDL‐C and also markedly decreased liver enzymes and weight in animals with a high‐cholesterol diet. Our findings show that 100 mg/kg of rutin alone or with lovastatin supplementation lowered liver weight and enzymes as well as plasma total cholesterol and LDL. The hepatic histopathological results reflect the correlation of rutin and lovastatin combination with both liver weight and the levels of plasma total cholesterol and LDL‐C. These results indicate that rutin in combination with lovastatin has increased anti‐hypercholesterolaemic effects in an animal model.
Curcumin Protects PC12 Cells from Corticosterone‐Induced Cytotoxicity: Possible Involvement of the ERK1/2 Pathway
Authors: Gao Min , Zhou Hong , Li Xuejun
Published: January 2009

Abstract:  Antiglucocorticoid therapy in depressed patients is effective, which indicates that glucocorticoids play a key role in the occurrence of depression. Our previous work demonstrated the efficacy of curcumin in treating depression in rat and mouse models. We characterized the protective effects of curcumin against corticosterone‐induced cytotoxicity in PC12 cells and explored the mechanisms of these protective effects in association with the phosphorylation and expression of ERK1/2 in PC12 cells. MTT assay showed that curcumin significantly protected PC12 cells from corticosterone‐induced cytotoxicity. Curcumin at concentrations from 10−8 to 10−6 M rescued PC12 cells from corticosterone‐induced cytotoxicity. Cell viability was increased more than 20% with curcumin treatment. Western blot analysis showed that corticosterone increased ERK1/2 phosphorylation in PC12 cells and curcumin 10−9 M to 10−6 M significantly inhibited corticosterone‐induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation in PC12 cells in a dose‐dependent manner. These results suggest that curcumin is able to protect PC12 cells which may be associated with inhibition of ERK phosphorylation.
Safety, Tolerability and Pharmacokinetics of TAS‐108, a Novel Anti‐Oestrogen, in Healthy Post‐Menopausal Japanese Women: A Phase I Single Oral Dose Study
Authors: Kumagai Yuji , Fujita Tomoe , Ozaki Machiko , Yokota Shin‐ichi , Maeda Mika , Shida Mizue , Otani Yoshio , Yamaya Hidetoshi , Tsuruta Hideo
Published: January 2009

Abstract: TAS‐108 is a novel steroidal anti‐oestrogen, expected to be useful for the treatment of breast cancer. The present study was conducted to investigate the safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of TAS‐108 following the administration at a single oral dose of 40 mg to up to 120 mg in 12 post‐menopausal women and the effect of food on the pharmacokinetics of the drug. All adverse events were mild and involved transient symptoms that resolved without therapeutic intervention. TAS‐108 was readily absorbed and plasma levels of TAS‐108 steadily declined, apparently in a multi‐exponential manner. Cmax and AUC0‐12 were proportionally increased with increasing dose of TAS‐108. The Cmax and AUC0‐t of TAS‐108 and its metabolite, deEt‐TAS‐108, were significantly increased to approximately 150% when TAS‐108 was administered after a meal. Food did not affect the elimination half‐life of TAS‐108 or its metabolites. In this escalating dose‐study of TAS‐108, the drug was well tolerated by healthy post‐menopausal Japanese women. The pharmacokinetics of TAS‐108 indicated dose proportionality, and its bioavailability was significantly increased by food intake.
Analysis of the Arabidopsis Floral Proteome: Detection of over 2 000 Proteins and Evidence for Posttranslational Modifications
Authors: Feng Baomin , Li Lianchao , Zhou Xiaofan , Stanley Bruce , Ma Hong
Published: January 2009

The proteome of the Arabidopsis flower has not been extensively studied previously. Here, we report a proteomic analysis of the wild type Arabidopsis flower. Using both two‐dimensional electrophoresis/mass spectrometry (2‐DGE/MS) and multi‐dimensional protein identification technology (MudPIT) approaches, we identified 2 446 proteins. Although a single experiment or analysis uncovered only a subset of the proteins we identified, a combination of multiple experiments and analyses facilitated the detection of a greater number of proteins. When proteins are grouped according to RNA expression levels revealed by microarray experiments, we found that proteins encoded by genes with relatively high levels of expression were detected with greater frequencies. On the other hand, at the level of the individual gene/protein, there was not a good correlation between protein spot intensity and microarray values. We also obtained strong evidence for post‐translational modification from 2‐DGE and MudPIT data. We detected proteins that are annotated to function in protein synthesis, folding, modification, and degradation, as well as the presence of regulatory proteins such as transcription factors and protein kinases. Finally, sequence and evolutionary analysis of genes for active methyl group metabolisms suggests that these genes are highly conserved. Our results allow the formulation of hypotheses regarding post‐translational regulation of proteins in the flower, providing new understanding about Arabidopsis flower development and physiology.
How Getting into College Led Me to Study the History of Getting into College
Authors: Wechsler Harold S.
Published: January 2009

I decided to study the history of American higher education shortly after May 1, 1968. Early that morning, over a thousand New York City police officers had cleared the Columbia University campus of demonstrators and the occupants of five university buildings. Upwards of 800 were arrested; perhaps the same number of students, faculty, and police needed medical attention. The next afternoon, the leaders of Students for a Democratic Society (SDS) gathered on the balcony of the Columbia Law School building, looking at over a thousand demonstrators protesting the police action. The images of the police action initiated by the Columbia administration still haunt me. But so does the triumph of “manipulatory democracy” practiced by SDS members.
Increasing Fish Oil Levels in Commercial Diets Influences Hematological and Immunological Responses of Channel Catfish, Ictalurus punctatus
Authors: Yildirim‐Aksoy Mediha , Lim Chhorn , Shelby Richard , Klesius Phillip H
Published: January 2009

Growth performance, immune responses and disease resistance were studied in juvenile channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, fed a commercial diet (35.3% crude protein and 5.6% lipid) supplemented with menhaden fish oil at levels of 0, 3, 6, and 9% for 15 wk. Dietary fish oil levels did not significantly influence growth performance of catfish. Fatty acid compositions of whole‐body and liver reflected dietary fatty acid composition. No differences were found in hematological values, except that fish fed the 9% fish oil diet had significantly lower hematocrit. The resistance of erythrocytes to hemolysis in hypotonic solutions increased with increasing fish oil levels and the highest resistance was seen with the 9% fish oil diet. Fish fed 6 and 9% added fish oil diets had significantly higher serum protein levels than that of control fish. Serum lysozyme activity of fish fed 3 and 6% added fish oil diet was significantly higher than that of the control. Complement activity and chemotaxis ratio significantly decreased in fish fed diets with 6 or 9% added fish oil. The 3% added fish oil diet, however, had significantly highest natural hemolytic complement activity. Mortality from Edwardsiella ictaluri 14 d postchallenge and antibody titers to E. ictaluridid not differ among treatments.
Effects of Feeding Levels on Growth Response, Body Composition, and Energy Expenditure in Blackspot Seabream, Pagellus bogaraveo, Juveniles
Authors: De Almeida Ozório Rodrigo Otávio , Andrade Carlos , Freitas Andrade Timóteo Viriato Manuel , Castanheira da Conceição Luís Eugénio , Pinheiro Valente Luisa Maria
Published: January 2009

Although reported as a slow growing species, to date information regarding nutritional dynamics of blackspot seabream, Pagellus bogaraveo, is limited, especially during ongrowing phase. This study determined the effects of different feeding levels on growth response, body composition, and energy expenditure of blackspot seabream juveniles (initial weight = 64 g). Fish were allocated in nine indoor tanks (15 fish per tank) and fed a basal diet twice daily at increasing levels (2.5, 3.3, and 4.1 g feed/kg0.8/d) for 138 d. Growth response decreased with decreasing feeding levels, but only at 2.5 g feed/kg0.8/d (P < 0.001). Differences in growth rates were positively correlated with body lipid content (r2 = 0.90). Net protein utilization decreased with each increase in feeding level. The energy requirement for zero growth (maintenance) and the estimated energy loss on starvation were calculated as 22.6 and 17.9 kJ/kg0.8/d, respectively. The energy cost for protein and lipid gain was calculated as 3.8 and 1.4 kJ/kJ energy deposited, respectively. This study suggested that blackspot seabream may grow slower than the other close‐related species because of its higher demand of dietary protein energy in favor of lipid deposition.
Effects of Carbohydrate‐Rich Alternative Feedstuffs on Growth, Survival, Body Composition, Hematology, and Nonspecific Immune Response of Black Pacu, Colossoma macropomum, and Red Pacu, Piaractus brachypomus
Authors: Lochmann Rebecca , Chen Ruguang , Chu‐Koo Fred W. , Camargo William N. , Kohler Christopher C. , Kasper Craig
Published: January 2009

To facilitate economical culture of black pacu, Colossoma macropomum, and red pacu, Piaractus brachypomus, in the Amazon region of South America, we assessed locally available alternative energy sources for practical diets. We tested the effects of control diets (containing wheat products) versus diets with different Amazonian feedstuffs (yucca, Manihot sculenta, plantain, Musa paradisiaca, or pijuayo, Bactris gasipaes) on the performance of the pacus in three feeding trials. Black pacu (22.5 ± 0.03 g; Trial 1) or red pacu (2.56 ± 0.01 g; Trial 2) were fed diets containing 30% wheat bran (control) or cooked or uncooked yucca, plantain, or pijuayo for 12 wk. In Trial 3, larger black pacu (86.9 ± 6.4 g) were grown to market size in 24 wk on similar diets. Weight gain, feed conversion, survival, alternative complement activity, and lysozyme were similar among diets. Hepatosomatic index, liver glycogen, and dry matter were affected by diet in Trials 1 and 2, but effects were not consistent among trials. In Trial 3, protein efficiency ratio was lower in fish fed the diet containing wheat middlings. However, relative to wheat bran or wheat middlings, all feedstuffs tested were effective energy sources for juvenile black pacu and red pacu.
The Value of a Net‐Cage as a Fish Aggregating Device in Southern California
Authors: Oakes Christopher T. , Pondella Daniel J.
Published: January 2009

There is an urgent need for primary data that can be used to quantify the value of marine aquaculture facilities that also describe influences on the surrounding natural ecosystem and its wild fish communities. Divers completed 360 transect replicates below a net‐cage and at nearby and distant rocky reefs off Catalina Island, California, estimating the species abundance and size class of all conspicuous fishes in the water column. We observed 10,234 fishes aggregating below the net‐cage with a mean annual density of 142 (SE ± 30) per 100 m2 and diversity H′ 2.29. At the adjacent reference reef, we counted 8452 fishes with a mean annual density of 117 (SE ± 20) and H′ 1.45 and at Reference Reef 2, located 500 m away, there were 8958 fishes with a density of 124 (SE ± 20) and H′ 1.13. The total density of fishes was the same between the study sites (ANOVA; P = 0.24); however, the spatial density of fishes in the water column was different between the net‐cage and reference reefs. Additionally, the density of juvenile fish was significantly lower at the net‐cage (ANOVA; P = 0.02), while the density of subadult and adult fishes was higher (ANOVA; P = 0.03). Feeding guild analysis ranked the net‐cage highest (3507), while Reference Reef 1 (2149), and Reference Reef 2 (2241), had lower values, a relationship often found between artificial and natural reefs. This suggests the importance of available trophic resources to the adult population of wild fishes, and has implications in the artificial reef attraction–production debate. The results of this study not only reproduce a pattern of fish attraction to net‐cages in the marine environment reported in previous studies but also demonstrate a relative habitat value compared in both time and space, of the fish community at a net‐cage compared with vibrant kelp bed communities.
Evaluation of Digestible Energy and Protein for Growth and Nitrogen Retention in Juvenile Florida Pompano, Trachinotus carolinus
Authors: Riche Marty
Published: January 2009

Juvenile Florida pompano (6.3 ± 0.50 g) were fed 1 of 12 diets formulated with an array of crude protein (340, 380, 420, 480, or 500 g/kg diet) and crude lipid (60, 100, 120, 160, or 180 g/kg diet) levels and estimated digestible protein to digestible energy (DP/DE) of 18.9–26.8 mg/kJ. In a second trial, apparent protein and energy digestibilities were empirically determined and coefficients used to calculate actual digestibilities. Digestible energy (DE) intake was 4.2–13.0 kJ/fish/d, and digestible protein (DP) intake was 0.13–0.32 g/fish/d. Average daily gain increased as a function of both DP and energy. Growth increased with increasing DP in all diets containing 24.0 mg/kJ DP/DE or greater until a plateau at 366 g DP/kg. Nitrogen gain was also a function of both DP and DE. Increasing energy at constant protein improved protein utilization. DP to maximize growth and nitrogen gain was between 356 and 366 g/kg. DE to attain maximum growth in juvenile Florida pompano is at least 15.4 MJ/kg with a DP/DE between 23.8 and 25.1 mg/kJ.
Effects of Dietary Administration of Probiotic Halomonas sp. B12 on the Intestinal Microflora, Immunological Parameters, and Midgut Histological Structure of Shrimp, Fenneropenaeus chinensis
Authors: Zhang Ling , Mai Kangsen , Tan Beiping , Ai Qinghui , Qi Chengzhen , Xu Wei , Zhang Wenbing , Liufu Zhiguo , Wang Xiaojie , Ma Hongming
Published: January 2009

The experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of oral administration of probiotic Halomonas sp. B12 (previously isolated from the intestine of Fenneropenaeus chinensis) on the intestinal microflora, immunological parameters, and midgut histological structure of F. chinensis. Shrimp (initial weight: 4.00 ± 0.10 g) were fed diets containing Halomonas sp. B12 at 0 (control), 3.68 × 107 (T1), and 7.18 × 1010 (T2) colony‐forming units per gram for 6 wk, respectively. The results showed that the total bacterial counts significantly increased (P < 0.05) with supplementation of dietary probiotic B12. However, Vibrio spp. counts significantly decreased (P < 0.05) in the intestine of shrimp with increasing dietary probiotic B12. Hemocyte counts in the shrimp fed the diets supplemented with probiotic B12 were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than the control group. Both phenoloxidase (PO) activity in plasma and hemocyte lysate supernatant were higher in the shrimp fed diets supplemented with probiotic B12 compared with the control group. No significant difference was found in PO activity in plasma between the T1 and the control (P > 0.05). PO activity in plasma was higher in T2 than that in T1. Cumulative shrimp mortality after 10‐d white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) challenge test significantly decreased with increasing dietary probiotic B12 (P < 0.05). No significant difference was found between T1 and control in cumulative shrimp mortality after challenge test (P > 0.05). The oral administration of probiotic B12 to F. chinensis was beneficial to protect the integrity of shrimp intestinal mucosal layer. In summary, even though the low dose (T1) had some effects on bacterial counts and immunological parameters, only the high dose (T2) significantly increased the resistance of the shrimp to WSSV.
Long‐term Effects of Passive Integrated Transponder Tagging on the Growth of Olive Flounder, Paralichthys olivaceus
Authors: Lee Jinhwan , Park In‐Seok , Cho Sung Hwoan
Published: January 2009

Abstract.—

The effects of passive integrated transponder (PIT) tagging on the growth and survival of olive flounder, Paralichthys olivaceus (initial average mass ± SD: 502 g ± 14.3), were examined for 8 mo. Tag readability in relation to implant position (eyed‐side muscle, blind‐side muscle, and peritoneal cavity) was also documented. The overall weight gain of fish tagged in the eyed‐side muscle (444 g) was significantly less than control and tagged fish in the blind‐side muscle and peritoneal cavity, which showed 470–488 g of weight gain (KW, P < 0.001, N= 78, df = 3). Specific growth rates (%/d) did not differ significantly (P > 0.05) among control, blind‐side muscle, and peritoneal cavity groups. No significant (P > 0.05) difference in survival rate was found between treatment and control. The readability of PIT tags in all implanted positions was 100%. The average time spent tagging at each position was less than 30 sec. These results show that PIT tagging of olive flounder weighing approximately 500 g in the blind‐side muscle and peritoneal cavity is feasible and reliable with fewer negative effects on growth than observed on the eyed‐side muscle site trial.
An Invariant Surface Patch on the TRIM5α PRYSPRY Domain Is Required for Retroviral Restriction but Dispensable for Capsid Binding
Authors: Sebastian Sarah , Grütter Christian , de Castillia Caterina Strambio , Pertel Thomas , Olivari Silvia , Grütter Markus G. , Luban Jeremy
Published: January 2009

TRIM5α is a retrovirus restriction factor in the host cell cytoplasm that blocks infection before provirus establishment. Restriction activity requires capsid (CA)-specific recognition by the PRYSPRY domain of TRIM5α. To better understand the restriction mechanism, nine charge-cluster-to-triple-alanine mutants in the TRIM5α PRYSPRY domain were assessed for CA-specific restriction activity. Five mutants distributed along the TRIM5α PRYSPRY primary sequence disrupted restriction activity against N-tropic murine leukemia virus and equine infectious anemia virus. Modeling of the TRIM5α PRYSPRY domain based on the crystal structures of PRYSPRY-19q13.4.1, GUSTAVUS, and TRIM21 identified a surface patch where disruptive mutants clustered. All mutants in this patch retained CA-binding activity, a reticular distribution in the cytoplasm, and steady-state protein levels comparable to those of the wild type. Residues in the essential patch are conserved in TRIM5α orthologues and in closely related paralogues. The same surface patch in the TRIM18 and TRIM20 PRYSPRY domains is the site of mutants causing Opitz syndrome and familial Mediterranean fever. These results indicate that, in addition to CA-specific binding, the PRYSPRY domain possesses a second function, possibly binding of a cofactor, that is essential for retroviral restriction activity by TRIM5α.
Macrophages in Vaginal but Not Intestinal Mucosa Are Monocyte-Like and Permissive to Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Infection
Authors: Shen Ruizhong , Richter Holly E. , Clements Ronald H. , Novak Lea , Huff Kayci , Bimczok Diane , Sankaran-Walters Sumathi , Dandekar Satya , Clapham Paul R. , Smythies Lesley E. , Smith Phillip D.
Published: January 2009

Mucosal surfaces play a major role in human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) transmission and pathogenesis, and yet the role of lamina propria macrophages in mucosal HIV-1 infection has received little investigative attention. We report here that vaginal and intestinal macrophages display distinct phenotype and HIV-1 permissiveness profiles. Vaginal macrophages expressed the innate response receptors CD14, CD89, CD16, CD32, and CD64 and the HIV-1 receptor/coreceptors CD4, CCR5, and CXCR4, similar to monocytes. Consistent with this phenotype, green fluorescent protein-tagged R5 HIV-1 entered macrophages in explanted vaginal mucosa as early as 30 min after inoculation of virus onto the epithelium, and purified vaginal macrophages supported substantial levels of HIV-1 replication by a panel of highly macrophage-tropic R5 viruses. In sharp contrast, intestinal macrophages expressed no detectable, or very low levels of, innate response receptors and HIV-1 receptor/coreceptors and did not support HIV-1 replication, although virus occasionally entered macrophages in intestinal tissue explants. Thus, vaginal, but not intestinal, macrophages are monocyte-like and permissive to R5 HIV-1 after the virus has translocated across the epithelium. These findings suggest that genital and gut macrophages have different roles in mucosal HIV-1 pathogenesis and that vaginal macrophages play a previously underappreciated but potentially important role in mucosal HIV-1 infection in the female genital tract.
Blocking Interhost Transmission of Influenza Virus by Vaccination in the Guinea Pig Model
Authors: Lowen Anice C. , Steel John , Mubareka Samira , Carnero Elena , García-Sastre Adolfo , Palese Peter
Published: January 2009

Interventions aimed at preventing viral spread have the potential to effectively control influenza virus in all age groups, thereby reducing the burden of influenza illness. For this reason, we have examined the efficacy of vaccination in blocking the transmission of influenza viruses between guinea pigs. Three modes of immunization were compared: (i) natural infection; (ii) intramuscular administration of whole, inactivated influenza virus in 2 doses; and (iii) intranasal inoculation with live attenuated influenza virus in 2 doses. The ability of each immunization method to block the spread of a homologous (A/Panama/2007/99) H3N2 subtype and a heterologous (A/Wisconsin/67/05) H3N2 subtype influenza virus was tested. We found that previous infection through a natural route provided sterilizing immunity against both homologous and heterologous challenges; thus, no transmission to or from previously infected animals was observed. Vaccination with an inactivated influenza virus vaccine, in contrast, did not prevent guinea pigs from becoming infected upon challenge with either virus. Thus, both intranasal inoculation and exposure to an acutely infected guinea pig led to the infection of vaccinated animals. Vaccination with inactivated virus did, however, reduce viral load upon challenge and decrease the number of secondary transmission events from vaccinated animals to naïve cage mates. Vaccination with a live attenuated virus was found to be more efficacious than vaccination with inactivated virus, resulting in sterilizing immunity against homologous challenge and full protection against the transmission of the homologous and heterologous viruses to naïve contacts. In conclusion, we have shown that the guinea pig model can be used to test influenza virus vaccines and that the efficiency of transmission is a valuable readout when vaccine efficacy is evaluated.
Biochemical, Biophysical, and Mutational Analyses of Subunit Interactions of the Human Cytomegalovirus Nuclear Egress Complex
Authors: Sam My D. , Evans Brady T. , Coen Donald M. , Hogle James M.
Published: January 2009

Nuclear egress, the trafficking of herpesvirus nucleocapsids from the nucleus to the cytoplasm, involves two conserved viral proteins that form a complex at the nuclear envelope, referred to as the nuclear egress complex. In human cytomegalovirus, these two proteins are called UL50 and UL53. To study UL50 and UL53 in molecular detail, these proteins were expressed in bacteria and purified. To obtain highly expressed, pure proteins, it was necessary to truncate both constructs based on sequence conservation and predicted secondary structural elements. Size exclusion chromatography and analytical ultracentrifugation studies indicated that the truncated form of UL50 is a monomer in solution, that the truncated form of UL53 is a homodimer, and that, when mixed, the two proteins form a heterodimer. To identify residues of UL53 crucial for homodimerization and for heterodimerization with UL50, we constructed and expressed mutant forms of UL53 containing alanine substitutions in a predicted helix. Isothermal titration calorimetry was used to measure the binding affinities of the UL53 mutants to UL50. UL53 residues, the replacement of which reduced binding to UL50, form a surface on one face of the predicted helix. Moreover, most of the substitutions that reduce UL53-UL50 interactions also reduced homodimerization. Substitutions that reduced the interaction between UL50 and UL53 in vitro also reduced colocalization of full-length UL50 and UL53 at the nuclear rim in transfected cells. These results demonstrate direct protein-protein interactions between these proteins that are likely to be mediated by a helix, and they have implications for understanding nuclear egress and for drug discovery.
The late Quaternary history of Hall Land, northwest Greenland
Authors: England John
Published: January 2009

The last ice limit on Hall Land, northwest Greenland, is marked by the Newman and Petermann moraines, which were deposited 40–60 km beyond the present ice margins in Newman Bay and Petermann Fiord, respectively. These moraines flank the eastern and western coasts of Hall Land but do not extend into its intervening central plain. As a result of glacioisostatic depression at this time, a full glacial sea transgressed the entire central plain via a narrow estuary located between the Newman Moraine and the northern plateau of Hall Land. The limit of this full glacial sea is isostatically tilted from 116 m asl on the adjacent coast of Ellesmere Island to 150 m asl on the southwest extremity of the central plain, where it reaches its apex. Pervasive marine silts cover the central plain and laterally thicken towards the Newman and Petermann moraines. Because of the height of the full glacial sea, these moraines were deposited in a submarine environment and mark the grounded margins of ice shelves floating in Hall Basin and Newman Bay.Twenty-seven samples of marine pelecypods from the proximal and distal sides of these moraines were 14C dated. Distal to the moraines the limit of the full glacial sea is dated by in situ shells that range from 8200 to > 33 000 BP. During this interval relative sea level remained stable and the ice load was apparently in isostatic equilibrium. Initial emergence (unloading) throughout the full glacial sea (~8200 BP) coincides with the initial penetration of the sea inside the Newman Moraine dated at 7965 BP and inside the Petermann Moraine at 8280 and 8295 BP.This research concludes that (1) there was no Nares Strait ice ridge during the last glaciation, (2) ice retreat of only 40–60 km can cause 140–150 m of emergence, and (3) the deglaciation of northwest Greenland began at 8000 and not 10 000 BP. This research confirms that the relative sea-level curves from the adjacent coast of Ellesmere Island were isostatically dominated by the Greenland Ice Sheet.
REDISTRIBUTION OF A DOPANT DURING ANNEALING OF RADIATION DEFECTS IN A MULTILAYER STRUCTURE BY LASER SCANS FOR PRODUCTION OF AN IMPLANTED-JUNCTION RECTIFIER
Authors: PANKRATOV E. L.
Published: January 2009

In this paper, we analyze dopant redistribution in a multilayer structure during laser scan annealing of radiation defects for the production of an implanted-junction rectifier, taking account of the temperature dependence of the diffusion coefficient. It is shown that inhomogeneity of the structure leads to increase in the sharpness of the implanted-junction rectifier and the homogeneity of the dopant distribution in the doped area. Some conditions on properties of the considered multilayer structure, which correspond to increase in the sharpness and the homogeneity, are determined.
INTERSUBBAND TRANSITIONS IN COUPLED QUANTUM WELLS UNDER AN INTENSE LASER FIELD
Authors: GUDWANI MONICA , PRASAD VINOD , JHA PRADEEP KUMAR , MOHAN MAN
Published: January 2009

We consider the electrons bound in the conduction band of a double quantum well interacting with a strong monochromatic electromagnetic field in the terahertz (THz) region. Using a variant of the stationary perturbation theory, we have obtained the quasienergies and Floquet eigenvectors. The main features of power broadening and the dynamic Stark shift are retained. The sensitivity to the field parameters, such as intensity and frequency of the electric field on the state populations, can be used in various optical semiconductor device applications.
INDIRECT MEASUREMENT OF Zn-DOPED In2S3 NANOFILMS' SPECIFIC HEAT CAPACITY
Authors: LAZZEZ S. , BEN MAHMOUD K. BOUBAKER , AMLOUK M.
Published: January 2009

ZnIn 2 S 4 nanofilms were grown on In 2 S 3 substrates. The band gap of ZnIn 2 S 4 barriers was approximately 2.8 eV at room temperature. The morphology and structure of the obtained nanofilms were already investigated via transmission electron microscope (TEM), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction analyses.1,2 In this paper, thermal analyses are performed via a photothermal technique, which has been used to indirectly evaluate the specific heat capacity of the obtained Zn -doped nanofilms. The yielded value for an optimal zinc-to-indium ratio, x (0.33), at the mean room temperature (T∞ = 301 K ), was Cs ≈ 411.5 J K -1 kg -1.
ELECTRIC-FIELD-INDUCED NANOSTRUCTURING OF METALLIC THIN FILMS
Authors: KUMAR PRASHANT , KRISHNA M. GHANASHYAM , BHATTACHARYA A. K.
Published: January 2009

The nanostructuring of thin Ni and In films by postdeposition electric field treatment is presented. Electric-field-induced nanostructuring effects, such as organization into an array of nanoparticles, formation of nanowires and transition from amorphous to nanocrystalline states, are demonstrated. It is further shown that the nanostructures can be manipulated by simply changing the direction of the applied field. Control parameters include separation of field probes (2–5 mm), duration (20–60 s) and direction of the field applied, and thickness (10–100 nm). High fields cause field-induced emission in the films. It is observed that while the microstructural reconstruction of the surfaces can be manipulated, the amorphous–crystalline transition is irreversible.
DISPERSION OF SINGLE-WALLED CARBON NANOTUBES IN WATER USING FLUOROPHORE-TAGGED POLYPEPTIDE
Authors: NURMAWATI M. H. , HOH H. Y. , LAKSHMINARAYANAN R. , VALIYAVEETTIL S.
Published: January 2009

Polyaspartic acid (PAsp) was tagged with rhodamine isothiocyanate (Rhod) or phenyl isothiocyanate (PITC) and used for adsorption on single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) to facilitate homogenous dispersion of SWNTs in water. Results from UV-vis, FTIR-spectroscopic and Raman-spectroscopic studies and fluorescence measurements show considerable interaction between SWNTs and fluorophores immobilized on PAsp. The images from atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy also indicate the presence of adsorbed polymers on the surface of SWNTs. The results suggest that the PITC-tagged PAsp is the most effective compound among the three compounds investigated for dispersing and debundling SWNTs in aqueous solutions, and the aqueous solutions are stable for months.
INFLUENCE OF THE PILLAR SHAPE ON THE BAND BROADENING IN PRESSURE-DRIVEN AND ELECTRO-OSMOSIS-DRIVEN ORDERED 2D POROUS CHROMATOGRAPHIC COLUMNS
Authors: DE WILDE DAAN , WEYNS GERT , SMETS NICO , DECONINCK JOHAN , GZIL PIOTR , DESMET GERT
Published: January 2009

A newly developed computational fluid dynamics method for simulating chromatographic adsorption is presented. This well-validated software package takes adsorption reactions as well as internal porosity into account to explain differences caused by the design and flow regime. Focusing on the band broadening in perfectly ordered 2D chromatographic columns, it is found that the method used for forcing the fluid through the column has a significant influence. Electro-osmosis-driven (ED) flows have a slight advantage (i.e. produce less band broadening) over pressure-driven (PD) flows. This is explained by the way the flow passes through a tortuous pore structure with changing pore size. Furthermore, this behavior does not change when the shape of the pillars is changed. Only for hexagon-like shapes is there a slight gain in performance for ED flows based on a bigger recuperation mechanism typical of ED flows in undulating pore spaces. When concentrating on the effect of the pillar, a better performance is obtained for more elongated shapes compared to more compact shapes like cylinders, as they pack in a more uniform pore space. It is also observed that the uniformity of the fluid field is the most important factor when comparing different shapes or systems. Heterogeneity in the velocity field inevitably leads to an increase of the band broadening.
Inside risksU.S. election after-math
Authors: Neumann Peter G.
Published: January 2009

Recounting problems still associated with election integrity, transparency, and accountability.
Point/CounterpointNetwork neutrality nuances
Authors: van Schewick Barbara , Farber David
Published: January 2009

A discussion of divergent paths to unrestricted access of content and applications via the Internet.
PuzzledWill my algorithm terminate?
Authors: Winkler Peter
Published: January 2009

Welcome to three new challenging mathematical puzzles. Solutions to the first two will be published next month; the third is as yet unsolved. In them all, I concentrate on algorithm termination, outlining some simple procedures and asking whether they always terminate or might possibly run forever.
Protecting browsers from DNS rebinding attacks
Authors: Jackson Collin , Barth Adam , Bortz Andrew , Shao Weidong , Boneh Dan
Published: January 2009

DNS rebinding attacks subvert the same-origin policy of browsers, converting them into open network proxies. Using DNS rebinding, an attacker can circumvent organizational and personal firewalls, send spam email, and defraud pay-per-click advertisers. We evaluate the cost effectiveness of mounting DNS rebinding attacks, finding that an attacker requires less than $100 to hijack 100,000 IP addresses. We analyze defenses to DNS rebinding attacks, including improvements to the classic “DNS pinning,” and recommend changes to browser plug-ins, firewalls, and Web servers. Our defenses have been adopted by plug-in vendors and by a number of open-source firewall implementations.
Item pricing for revenue maximization
Authors: Balcan Maria-Florina , Blum Avrim , Mansour Yishay
Published: January 2009

In this note we report recent results on item pricing for revenue maximization in the presence of buyers with complex, unknown preferences. We focus on two important classes of settings: buyers with general valuations for the case of items in unlimited supply, and buyers with subadditive valuations for the case of items in limited supply.
The complexity of forecast testing
Authors: Fortnow Lance , Vohra Rakesh V.
Published: January 2009

Consider a weather forecaster predicting the probability of rain for the next day. We consider tests that given a finite sequence of forecast predictions and outcomes will either pass or fail the forecaster. It is known that any test which passes a forecaster who knows the distribution of nature can also be probabilistically passed by a forecaster with no knowledge of future events. This note summarizes and examines the computational complexity of such forecasters.
Manipulation-resistant recommender systems through influence limits
Authors: Resnick Paul , Sami Rahul
Published: January 2009

In this letter, we outline a new approach to modeling, analyzing, and combating manipulative attacks on recommender systems.
Strategic network formation with structural holes
Authors: Kleinberg Jon , Suri Siddharth , Tardos Éva , Wexler Tom
Published: January 2009

In this paper we briefly summarize the sociological theory of structural holes, which asserts that people benefit from acting as bridges between groups of people who do not otherwise interact. We then summarize recent work on modeling this phenomenon using network formation games. We conclude by providing open questions in the study and modeling of structural holes.
Reflections on the TCP macroscopic model
Authors: Mathis Matthew
Published: January 2009

The current Internet fairness paradigm mandates that all protocols have equivalent response to packet loss and other congestion signals, allowing relatively simple network devices to attain a weak form of fairness by sending uniform signals to all ows. Our paper[1], which recently received the ACM SIGCOMM Test of Time Award, modeled the reference Additive-Increase-Multiplicative-Decrease algorithm used by TCP. However, in many parts of the Internet ISPs are choosing to explicitly control customer traffic, because the traditional paradigm does not sufficiently enforce fair- ness in a number of increasingly common situations. This editorial note takes the position we should embrace this paradigm shift, which will eventually move the responsibility for capacity allocation from the end-systems to the network itself. This paradigm shift might eventually eliminate the requirement that all protocols be TCP-Friendly".
A break in the clouds
Authors: Vaquero Luis M. , Rodero-Merino Luis , Caceres Juan , Lindner Maik
Published: January 2009

This paper discusses the concept of Cloud Computing to achieve a complete definition of what a Cloud is, using the main characteristics typically associated with this paradigm in the literature. More than 20 definitions have been studied allowing for the extraction of a consensus definition as well as a minimum definition containing the essential characteristics. This paper pays much attention to the Grid paradigm, as it is often confused with Cloud technologies. We also describe the relationships and distinctions between the Grid and Cloud approaches.
The cost of a cloud
Authors: Greenberg Albert , Hamilton James , Maltz David A. , Patel Parveen
Published: January 2009

The data centers used to create cloud services represent a significant investment in capital outlay and ongoing costs. Accordingly, we first examine the costs of cloud service data centers today. The cost breakdown reveals the importance of optimizing work completed per dollar invested. Unfortunately, the resources inside the data centers often operate at low utilization due to resource stranding and fragmentation. To attack this first problem, we propose (1) increasing network agility, and (2) providing appropriate incentives to shape resource consumption. Second, we note that cloud service providers are building out geo-distributed networks of data centers. Geo-diversity lowers latency to users and increases reliability in the presence of an outage taking out an entire site. However, without appropriate design and management, these geo-diverse data center networks can raise the cost of providing service. Moreover, leveraging geo-diversity requires services be designed to benefit from it. To attack this problem, we propose (1) joint optimization of network and data center resources, and (2) new systems and mechanisms for geo-distributing state.
Development and Etiology of Disruptive and Delinquent Behavior
Authors: Loeber Rolf , Burke Jeffrey D. , Pardini Dustin A.
Published: January 2009

This review examines the development and etiology of disruptive behavior [symptoms of oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), conduct disorder (CD), and psychopathic features] and delinquency (particularly violence). We address selected key developmental issues, including (a) to what extent negative emotional ODD symptoms are associated with later internalizing disorders, (b) whether psychopathic features provide added predictive utility beyond traditional disruptive behaviors, and (c) the role of oppositional behavior and conduct problems in the development of violence. This review also focuses on the causes of ODD, CD, psychopathic features, and delinquency and explores the extent to which the causes of disruptive and delinquent behavior are the same. We examine the degree to which risk and promotive factors change with age and whether promotive factors buffer the impact of risk factors. Finally, we explore the question of whether there are developmental shifts in children's exposure to risk and promotive factors.
Long-Term Bird Assemblage Trends in Areas of High and Low Human Population Density
Authors: Barrett Kyle , Romagosa Christina M. , Williams Matthew I.
Published: January 2009

Urban areas are expanding globally, and the impact of high human population density (HHPD) on bird species richness remains unresolved. Studies primarily focus on species richness along an urban-to-rural gradient; however, some studies have analyzed larger-scale patterns and found results that contrast with those obtained at smaller scales. To move the discussion beyond static species richness patterns, we analyzed the effect of HHPD on bird assemblage dynamics (year-to-year extinction probability, turnover, changes in species richness) across the United States over a 25-year period. We found that bird assemblages in both high and low human population density areas changed significantly over the period of record. Specifically, bird assemblages increased in species richness on average. Assemblage change in areas of HHPD was not significantly different from assemblage change in areas with LHPD. These results suggest that human population density alone does not alter the persistence of avian assemblage patterns.
The Difference in p53 Mutations between Cancers of the Upper and Lower Gastrointestinal Tract
Authors: Oki Eiji , Zhao Yan , Yoshida Rintaro , Egashira Akinori , Ohgaki Kippei , Morita Masaru , Kakeji Yoshihiro , Maehara Yoshihiko
Published: January 2009

Background:p53 gene mutations have been reported in over half of all human cancers and they appear to occur in the early stage of cancer, thus indicating the important role that such mutations may play in the carcinogenesis of the digestive tract. This study investigated the differences in p53 abnormalities between cancers of the upper and lower gastrointestinal tract. Materials and Methods: The DNA of 354 specimens of gastrointestinal cancer (esophagus 85, stomach 112, colon 157) was extracted and then p53 gene mutations were investigated by direct sequencing; the loss of heterozygosity was also synchronously analyzed in all cases. Results: (1) p53 gene mutation: p53 gene mutations were found in 41 samples (48.2%) in the esophagus, 18 samples (16.0%) in the stomach and 36 samples (22.9%) in the colon. p53 mutations were more frequently identified in well-differentiated cancers and a close correlation was recognized between p53 mutations and loss of heterozygosity. (2) Mutation spectrum: the ratio of transversion was 43.9% in esophagus, 33.3% in stomach and 25.0% in the colon tumors. Reciprocally, the ratio of transition was 31.7, 66.7, and 72.2%, respectively. Discussion: The frequency of p53 transversion mutations was extremely high in the upper digestive tract, whereas transition mutations were more frequently observed in the lower digestive tract. The investigation of the spectrum of mutations in p53 is therefore expected to lead to a better understanding of the agents responsible for inducing cancer.
Metabolic Journey to Healthy Longevity
Authors: Barbieri Michelangela , Boccardi Virginia , Papa Michela , Paolisso Giuseppe
Published: January 2009

Background: The process of aging is associated with progressive remodeling. The age-dependent remodeling process mainly affects anthropometrics and endocrine function, which subsequently impact metabolic factors. In some individuals, e.g., the very select group of healthy centenarians, the remodeling process is successful. The reasons why centenarians are able to reach the extreme limits of human life span are still largely unknown; however, several studies in humans have shown that longevity is associated with a significant improvement in glucose handling – mainly, a rise in insulin sensitivity and a decline in plasma insulin-like growth factor I levels. Conclusions: Caloric restriction seems to be the best positive modulator of metabolism to achieve longevity. Other specific metabolic adaptations, even those genetically induced, might also play a role in the health of centenarians.