bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microbial Risk Markers for Childhood Caries in Pediatricians’ Offices
Authors: Kanasi E. , Johansson I. , Lu S.C. , Kressin N.R. , Nunn M.E. , Kent R. , Tanner A.C.R.
Published: February 2010

Dental caries in pre-school children has significant public health and health disparity implications. To determine microbial risk markers for this infection, this study aimed to compare the microbiota of children with early childhood caries with that of caries-free children. Plaque samples from incisors, molars, and the tongue from 195 children attending pediatricians’ offices were assayed by 74 DNA probes and by PCR to Streptococcus mutans. Caries-associated factors included visible plaque, child age, race, and snacking habits. Species were detected more frequently from tooth than tongue samples. Lactobacillus gasseri (p < 0.01), Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus vaginalis, and S. mutans with Streptococcus sobrinus (all p < 0.05) were positively associated with caries. By multifactorial analysis, the probiotic Lactobacillus acidophilus was negatively associated with caries. Prevotella nigrescens was the only species (p < 0.05) significantly associated with caries by the ‘false discovery’ rate. Analysis of the data suggests that selected Lactobacillus species, in addition to mutans streptococci, are risk markers for early childhood caries.
Up-regulation of the Apo/Fas (CD95) complex on neutrophils harvested during cardiac surgery: distinct findings in patients operated on with or without the use of cardiopulmonary bypass
Authors: Kunes Pavel , Mandak Jiri , Harrer Jan , Kolackova Martina , Andrys Ctirad , Holicka Monika , Krejsek Jan
Published: February 2010

Aims: In a group of patients undergoing cardiac surgery performed both with (“on-pump”) and without the use (“offpump”) of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), we studied the changes of neutrophil membrane apoptosis-inducing complex Apo/Fas.

Methods: Expression of Apo/Fas (CD95) on leukocytes was evaluated by flow cytometry.

Results: In “on-pump” patients, we found an increase in the expression of CD95 median intensity fluorescence (MFI) on granulocytes from a baseline level median=56, (Q 1=45.5, Q3=64) to a median=88, (Q1=62, Q 3=109.5; p<0.01) at the 3rd postoperative day and median=74, (Q1=63, Q3=84.5; p<0.01) at the 7th postoperative day. In “off-pump” patients, granulocyte CD95 MFI was median=55, (Q1=51, Q3=84) before surgery. The significant increase was found on the 3rd postoperative day only; median=90, (Q 1=66; Q3=98; p<0.05). A similar pattern in the CD95 expression was also found if percentage changes of granulocyte CD95 MFI were followed. Moreover, the significantly increased Apo/Fas expression expressed as a percentage change of CD95 MFI was found in “on-pump” patients compared to “off-pump” patients, both at the 3rd postoperative day (p<0.05) and at the 7th postoperative day (p<0.01).

Conclusions: This is the first direct evidence of increasing densities of the Apo/Fas complex on neutrophils in cardiac surgical patients.
The Null-Space-based Behavioral Control for Mobile Robots with Velocity Actuator Saturations
Authors: Arrichiello Filippo , Chiaverini Stefano , Indiveri Giovanni , Pedone Paola
Published: February 2010

In this paper we present the application of the Null-Space-based Behavioral (NSB) approach to the motion control of mobile robots with velocity saturated actuators. The NSB is a behavior-based robot control approach that uses a hierarchical organization of the tasks to guarantee that they are executed according to a desired priority: it uses a projection technique to avoid that, in the absence of actuator saturations, low-priority tasks could influence higher-priority tasks. The main contribution of this paper is the extension of the NSB approach to the case where actuator velocity saturation bounds are explicitly taken into account. The proposed solution dynamically scales task velocity commands so that the hierarchy of task priorities is preserved in spite of actuator velocity saturations. The approach has been validated on two specific case studies. In the first case, the NSB elaborates the motion directives for a single mobile robot that has to reach a target while avoiding a point obstacle1 in this case, the mission is composed of two tasks. In the second case, the NSB elaborates the motion directives for a team of six mobile robots that has orates the motion directives for a team of six mobile robots that has to entrap and escort a target1 in this case the mission is composed of four tasks. The approach is validated by numerical simulations and by experiments with real mobile robots.
Off-axis Crashworthiness Characteristic of Woven Glass/Epoxy Composite Box Structures
Authors: Ghasemnejad H. , Hadavinia H.
Published: February 2010

This study investigates the influence of off-axis loading on the fracture mechanism and specific energy absorption (SEA) of glass/epoxy twill/weave composite box structures. In this regard, the off-axis angles of 5°, 10°, 20°, and 30° of loading direction with respect to the composite box axis is studied experimentally under quasi-static crushing process. At the off-axis angle of 5°, the crushing process behavior is similar to that of the axial crushing and fracture mechanisms, such as bundle fracture and interlaminar crack propagation in Mode-II are observed. These are characteristic of brittle fracture crushing mode. For crushing at an off-axis angle of 10°, additional interwall crack propagation at one side of the box is also found. This increases the energy absorbing capability of glass/epoxy composite box at this angle. The sidewall crack is a mixed-mode crack. To characterize this crack, the mixed-mode interlaminar fracture toughness, G I/IIC, is measured using asymmetric double cantilever beam (ADCB) test method. For other angles, the non-symmetrical fracture mechanisms are found at four sides of the composite boxes. The arriving of sustained crushing stage is delayed by increasing the off-axis crushing angle. Owing to this fact, the energy absorbing capability is reduced by increasing the off-axis loading angle. An analytical solution is proposed to predict the mean force of axial crushing in brittle fracture crushing mode. The off-axis crushing process of composite boxes is also simulated by finite element software LS-DYNA and the results are verified with the relevant experimental results.
Prediction of Mechanical Properties of Mica-filled Epoxy Composite Using Various Mechanical Models
Authors: Firoozian P. , Akil Hazizan Md. , Abdul Khalil H.P.S.
Published: February 2010

This paper reports an investigation on the prediction of tensile properties of mica-filled epoxy composites. Various mechanical models were used to predict the tensile properties of mica-filled epoxy composites at several mica concentrations (5-30 vol%). The tensile properties of mica-filled epoxy at various mica contents were determined experimentally and modeled using Nielsen, Nicolais-Narkis, Verbeek, Halpin-Tsai, Guth, and Novak models. It was found that the tensile modulus of epoxy increases with increasing mica content, whereas the elongation at break and tensile strength decrease. Predictions, which have been offered by the models on tensile strength, elongation at break, and Young’s modulus, are in good agreement with experimental data over the range of mica contents studied. The Halpin-Tsai model shows best agreement in predicting the Young’s modulus (accuracy > 93 %), and Novak curve fitting shows best prediction for elongation at break (accuracy > 99%) for mica-filled composites. In the case of tensile strength, good agreement with Nicolais-Narkis models (accuracy > 99%) was obtained.
Silica-Styrene-Butadiene Rubber Filled Hybrid Composites: Experimental Characterization and Modeling
Authors: Vinay Kumar Singh  , Prakash Chandra Gope
Published: February 2010

The mechanical behavior of epoxy matrix composites filled with nanosized silica particles and styrene-butadiene rubber is discussed. Scanning electron microscopy analysis and tensile test carried out at different crosshead speeds on the silica-styrene-butadiene rubber epoxy nanocomposites indicated the absence of particle aggregation and a reinforcing effect in terms of increased elastic modulus, yield, and ultimate strength. The results of wear test in pin-on-disc mode and hardness test on Rockwell R scale showed that the nanosized silica particles could improve the wear resistance of the epoxy matrix even though the content of the filler is at a relatively low level (1.0-2.0 wt%). This makes it possible to develop novel type of epoxy-based material with improved wear resistance for various applications. About 40-70% increase in impact strength has been noticed due to addition of 0.5-1.5 wt% of styrene-butadiene rubber in 1.0 wt% silica-filled epoxy composite. A good correlation between mechanical properties and weight contents of the filler materials, hardness and ultimate strength, and hardness and wear rate has been observed.
Therapeutic Environment and Outcomes in a U.K. Domestic Violence Perpetrator Program
Authors: Bowen Erica
Published: February 2010

This study examines the extent to which variations in program delivery affect the therapeutic environment and whether the therapeutic environment is associated with psychological and behavioral outcomes in a domestic violence perpetrator program. Seventy-seven offenders and 31 probation group tutors participated. It was found that groups with longer sessions were perceived more favorably by offenders than those with shorter sessions. A positive correlation was identified between group organization and offender attendance. No association between the therapeutic environment and posttreatment alleged reoffending within an 11-month follow-up period was identified. A supportive leader style was positively associated with the extent of clinically significant change identified on a range of psychological measures. These findings suggest that profeminist programs may exert a meaningful therapeutic effect.
Hernia Uterine Inguinale and Seminoma in Persistent Müllerian Duct Syndrome
Authors: Chiang Chao-Yan , Tsai Jen-Wei , Wang Hua-Pin , Sung Ya-Zhu , Chang Li-Ching
Published: February 2010

Persistent Müllerian duct syndrome (PMDS) with seminoma, hernia uterine inguinale, and transverse testicular ectopia is rare. A 41-year-old phenotypic man with 46 XY karyotype was admitted with nonpainful bulging mass in the left inguinoscrotal region. Two distinct masses were identified by sonography and computed tomography. No testis was apparent on the right side. Excisional specimens revealed seminoma and scrotal uterus. Histopathology of seminoma showed enhanced CD117 immunohistochemical staining. The other inguinal mass was consistent with uterine tissue and was associated with the vas deferens in its lateral aspect. Radiation therapy was performed after the orchiectomy and scrotal hysterectomy. The patient remains free of recurrence after 1-year follow-up assessment. The presence of a unilateral inguinal hernia with a large mass associated with a contralateral nonpalpable testis indicates the presence of PMDS with hernia uterine inguinale and transverse testicular ectopia.
Inverse p16 and p63 Expression in Small Cell Carcinoma and High-Grade Urothelial Cell Carcinoma of the Urinary Bladder
Authors: Buza Natalia , Cohen Paul J. , Pei Hui  , Parkash Vinita
Published: February 2010

Small cell carcinoma (SmCC) of the urinary bladder is a rare, highly aggressive neoplasm. The diagnosis is usually made on morphologic grounds, with the help of immunohistochemistry to document neuroendocrine differentiation. However, neuroendocrine markers generally have low sensitivity, ranging between 30-70%. Recent studies have reported p16 over-expression in SmCC of the lung, suggesting that p16 immunohistochemistry may be useful in the diagnosis of bladder SmCC. This is the first study to analyze the usefulness of p16 in the distinction of small cell and high grade urothelial cell carcinoma (HG-UCC). Fourteen cases of SmCCs and sixteen cases of HG-UCC of the bladder were stained with p16, p63, cytokeratin 20 (CK20), cytokeratin 7 (CK7), chromogranin (Chr), synaptophysin (Syn), and CD56. P16 expression was significantly higher in SmCCs (92.8%) when compared to HG-UCCs (43.7%). P63 and CK20, on the other hand, were positive in the majority of HG-UCCs (81.3% and 50%, respectively), while only 14.3% of SmCCs showed focal immunoreactivity with CK20. The sensitivity of the traditional neuroendocrine markers was low, ranging between 28.6% (Chr) and 71.4% (CD56) in SmCCs. P16 positivity in the absence of p63 and CK20 is highly characteristic of SmCC, while p63 and CK20 positivity with or without p16 expression is typical of HG-UCC.
Public Engagement and the Impact of Fairness Perceptions on Decision Favorability and Acceptance
Authors: Besley John C.
Published: February 2010

Drawing on the social-psychological theory about justice, the current study uses survey data collected during a public engagement process related to nuclear energy to test the relative impact of perceptions about the fairness of outcomes, decision procedures, and interpersonal treatment in predicting both perceived favorability of a decision and willingness to accept a decision. Media use, interpersonal discussion, competence, and risk perceptions (worry) are used as control variables alongside standard demographics in hierarchical ordinary least squares regression models. The study finds that believing one receives a fair outcome is associated with decision favorability, while all forms of fairness perceptions are associated with acceptance. The implication is that perceptions about both outcome and nonoutcome forms of fairness are important to consider when assessing public engagement.
Infection Control and the Home Care Environment
Authors: Kenneley Irena L.
Published: February 2010

Introduction: The epidemiology of multidrug-resistant organisms is changing as evidenced by a shift to the community. Hospitalized patients are admitted to home health care with multidrug-resistant organisms. Numerous states have reported an increased incidence of community-acquired infections caused by multidrug-resistant organisms where reportedly no exposure to antibiotics or health care in the 3 months before symptom onset occurred. Method: A cohort research design with four separate home care agencies and a total of 127 nurses’ bags were cultured. Conclusions: The present study hypothesizes that the implementation of infection prevention and control strategies including education and training on proper hand hygiene and appropriate decontamination of high-touch surfaces (nurses’ bags) will interrupt the chain of transmission. Hand hygiene practices and environmental disinfection methods differ for Clostridium difficile than for other multidrug-resistant organisms, underscoring the need for addressing environmental factors. If present, implications for routine care and cleaning of nurses’ bags and specific changes in hand hygiene practices before and after home care visits are necessary.
Japan’s Political Tsunami: What’s Media Got to Do with It?
Authors: McCargo Duncan , Hyon-Suk Lee
Published: February 2010

This article reviews media-related aspects of the 2009 Japanese lower house elections, which saw the historic defeat of the long-ruling Liberal Democratic Party by the Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ). Drawing mainly on Internet sources and on interviews with politicians and political journalists, the authors argue that the DPJ relied primarily on conventional media strategies and made only limited use of new media in their campaign. If the DPJ hopes permanently to transform Japan’s political landscape, the party will need to prioritize the reform of outdated election campaign legislation and abolish “closed shop” reporters’ clubs.
Vascular endothelial growth factor stimulates protein kinase CβII expression in chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells
Authors: Abrams Simon T. , Brown Benjamin R. B. , Zuzel Mirko , Slupsky Joseph R.
Published: February 2010

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a malignant disease of mature B lymphocytes. We have previously shown that a characteristic feature of CLL cells are high levels of expression and activity of protein kinase CβII (PKCβII), and that this might influence disease progression by modulating signaling in response to B-cell receptor engagement. The aim of the present work was to investigate the factors involved in stimulating PKCβII expression in CLL cells. Here we show that the activation of PKCβII in CLL cells stimulated with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) can drive expression of the gene for PKCβ, PRKCB1. We found that this effect of VEGF on PRKCB1 transcription is paralleled by high expression of PKCβII protein and therefore probably contributes to the malignant phenotype of CLL cells. Taken together, the data presented in this study demonstrate that VEGF, in addition to its role in providing prosurvival signals, also plays a role in overexpression of PKCβII, an enzyme with a specific pathophysiologic role in CLL.
CD160 signaling mediates PI3K-dependent survival and growth signals in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Liu Feng-Ting , Giustiniani Jerome , Farren Timothy , Jia Li , Bensussan Armand , Gribben John G. , Agrawal Samir G.
Published: February 2010

B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) expresses CD160, a glycosylphosphatidylinositol-linked receptor found on normal natural killer (NK) and T cells, but not B cells. CD160 is a multifunctional molecule in normal lymphocytes, but its role in CLL biology is unknown. In vitro, CLL cells undergo rapid spontaneous apoptosis, which CD160 activation protected against—mean cell viability increased from 67% to 79% (P < .001). This was associated with up-regulation of Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, and Mcl-1, but not Bax. As expected from these changes in Bcl-2/Bax and Bcl-xL/Bax ratios, CD160 triggering reduced mitochondrial membrane potential collapse and cytochrome c release. CD160 stimulation also induced DNA synthesis, cell cycle progression, and proliferation. B-cell antigen receptor (BCR)–induced CLL proliferation was generally greater than with CD160, but marked variation was seen. Both BCR and CD160 signaling led to CLL secretion of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and IL-8, although CD160 induced greater increases of IL-6 (51-fold) and IL-8 (15-fold). Survival and activation signals mediated by CD160 showed dose-dependent suppression by phosphoinositide-3 kinase (PI3K) inhibitors. Thus, in vitro, CLL cells can use the CD160 pathway for survival and activation, mimicking CD160 signaling in normal NK and CD8+ T cells. Establishing the pathophysiologic relevance of these findings may reveal new therapeutic targets.
Malignant malaria and microangiopathies: merging mechanisms
Authors: López José A.
Published: February 2010

In this issue of Blood, Bridges and colleagues report that Plasmodium falciparum–infected erythrocytes are able to attach to the endothelial surface by binding platelet-decorated VWF strands in a CD36-dependent fashion, revealing a new mechanism for erythrocyte cytoadherence in malaria.1
Potentials 'R'Us web-server for protein energy estimations with coarse-grained knowledge-based potentials
Authors: Feng Yaping , Kloczkowski Andrzej , Jernigan Robert L
Published: February 2010

Background

Knowledge-based potentials have been widely used in the last 20 years for fold recognition, protein structure prediction from amino acid sequence, ligand binding, protein design, and many other purposes. However generally these are not readily accessible online.

Results

Our new knowledge-based potential server makes available many of these potentials for easy use to automatically compute the energies of protein structures or models supplied. Our web server for protein energy estimation uses four-body potentials, short-range potentials, and 23 different two-body potentials. Users can select potentials according to their needs and preferences. Files containing the coordinates of protein atoms in the PDB format can be uploaded as input. The results will be returned to the user's email address.

Conclusions

Our Potentials 'R'Us server is an easily accessible, freely available tool with a web interface that collects all existing and future protein coarse-grained potentials and computes energies of multiple structural models.
Transcriptomic changes arising during light-induced sporulation in Physarum polycephalum
Authors: Barrantes Israel , Glockner Gernot , Meyer Sonja , Marwan Wolfgang
Published: February 2010

Background

Physarum polycephalum is a free-living amoebozoan protist displaying a complex life cycle, including alternation between single- and multinucleate stages through sporulation, a simple form of cell differentiation. Sporulation in Physarum can be experimentally induced by several external factors, and Physarum displays many biochemical features typical for metazoan cells, including metazoan-type signaling pathways, which makes this organism a model to study cell cycle, cell differentiation and cellular reprogramming.

Results

In order to identify the genes associated to the light-induced sporulation in Physarum, especially those related to signal transduction, we isolated RNA before and after photoinduction from sporulation- competent cells, and used these RNAs to synthesize cDNAs, which were then analyzed using the 454 sequencing technology. We obtained 16,669 cDNAs that were annotated at every computational level. 13,169 transcripts included hit count data, from which 2,772 displayed significant differential expression (upregulated: 1,623; downregulated: 1,149). Transcripts with valid annotations and significant differential expression were later integrated into putative networks using interaction information from orthologs.

Conclusions

Gene ontology analysis suggested that most significantly downregulated genes are linked to DNA repair, cell division, inhibition of cell migration, and calcium release, while highly upregulated genes were involved in cell death, cell polarization, maintenance of integrity, and differentiation. In addition, cell death- associated transcripts were overrepresented between the upregulated transcripts. These changes are associated to a network of actin-binding proteins encoded by genes that are differentially regulated before and after light induction.
Genomic sequencing and analyses of Lymantria xylina multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus
Authors: Nai Yu-Shin , Wu Chih-Yu , Wang Tai-Chuan , Chen Yun-Ru , Lau Wei-Hong , Lo Chu-Fang , Tsai Meng-Feng , Wang Chung-Hsiung
Published: February 2010

Background

Outbreaks of the casuarina moth, Lymantria xylina Swinehoe (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae), which is a very important forest pest in Taiwan, have occurred every five to 10 years. This moth has expanded its range of host plants to include more than 65 species of broadleaf trees. LyxyMNPV (L. xylina multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus) is highly virulent to the casuarina moth and has been investigated as a possible biopesticide for controlling this moth. LdMNPV-like virus has also been isolated from Lymantria xylin a larvae but LyxyMNPV was more virulent than LdMNPV-like virus both in NTU-LY and IPLB-LD-652Y cell lines. To better understand LyxyMNPV, the nucleotide sequence of the LyxyMNPV DNA genome was determined and analysed.

Results

The genome of LyxyMNPV consists of 156,344 bases, has a G+C content of 53.4% and contains 157 putative open reading frames (ORFs). The gene content and gene order of LyxyMNPV were similar to those of LdMNPV, with 151 ORFs identified as homologous to those reported in the LdMNPV genome. Two genes (Lyxy49 and Lyxy123) were homologous to other baculoviruses, and four unique LyxyMNPV ORFs (Lyxy11, Lyxy19, Lyxy130 and Lyxy131) were identified in the LyxyMNPV genome, including a gag-like gene that was not reported in baculoviruses. LdMNPV contains 23 ORFs that are absent in LyxyMNPV. Readily identifiable homologues of the gene host range factor-1 (hrf-1), which appears to be involved in the susceptibility of L. dispar to NPV infection, were not present in LyxyMNPV. Additionally, two putative odv-e27 homologues were identified in LyxyMNPV. The LyxyMNPV genome encoded 14 bro genes compared with 16 in LdMNPV, which occupied more than 8% of the LyxyMNPV genome. Thirteen homologous regions (hr s) were identified containing 48 repeated sequences composed of 30-bp imperfect palindromes. However, they differed in the relative positions, number of repeats and orientation in the genome compared to LdMNPV.

Conclusion

The gene parity plot analysis, percent identity of the gene homologues and a phylogenetic analysis suggested that LyxyMNPV is a Group II NPV that is most closely related to LdMNPV but with a highly distinct genomic organisation.
Staphylococcus aureus sigma B-dependent emergence of small-colony variants and biofilm production following exposure to Pseudomonas aeruginosa 4-hydroxy-2-heptylquinoline-N- oxide
Authors: Mitchell Gabriel , Séguin David Lalonde , Asselin Ann-Elise , Déziel Eric , Cantin André M , Frost Eric H , Michaud Sophie , Malouin François
Published: February 2010

Background

Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are often found together in the airways of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. It was previously shown that the P. aeruginosa exoproduct 4-hydroxy-2-heptylquinoline-N- oxide (HQNO) suppresses the growth of S. aureus and provokes the emergence of small-colony variants (SCVs). The presence of S. aureus SCVs as well as biofilms have both been associated with chronic infections in CF.

Results

We demonstrated that HQNO stimulates S. aureus to form a biofilm in association with the formation of SCVs. The emergence of SCVs and biofilm production under HQNO exposure was shown to be dependent on the activity of the stress- and colonization-related alternative sigma factor B (SigB). Analysis of gene expression revealed that exposure of a prototypical S. aureus strain to HQNO activates SigB, which was leading to an increase in the expression of the fibronectin-binding protein A and the biofilm-associated sarA genes. Conversely, the quorum sensing accessory gene regulator (agr) system and the α-hemolysin gene were repressed by HQNO. Experiments using culture supernatants from P. aeruginosa PAO1 and a double chamber co-culture model confirmed that P. aeruginosa stimulates biofilm formation and activates SigB in a S. aureus strain isolated from a CF patient. Furthermore, the supernatant from P. aeruginosa mutants unable to produce HQNO induced the production of biofilms by S. aureus to a lesser extent than the wild-type strain only in a S. aureus SigB-functional background.

Conclusions

These results suggest that S. aureus responds to HQNO from P. aeruginosa by forming SCVs and biofilms through SigB activation, a phenomenon that may contribute to the establishment of chronic infections in CF patients.
Genetic adaptation of Streptococcus mutans during biofilm formation on different types of surfaces
Authors: Shemesh Moshe , Tam Avshalom , Aharoni Reuven , Steinberg Doron
Published: February 2010

Background

Adhesion and successful colonization of bacteria onto solid surfaces play a key role in biofilm formation. The initial adhesion and the colonization of bacteria may differ between the various types of surfaces found in oral cavity. Therefore, it is conceivable that diverse biofilms are developed on those various surfaces. The aim of the study was to investigate the molecular modifications occurring during in vitro biofilm development of Streptococcus mutans UA159 on several different dental surfaces.

Results

Growth analysis of the immobilized bacterial populations generated on the different surfaces shows that the bacteria constructed a more confluent and thick biofilms on a hydroxyapatite surface compared to the other tested surfaces. Using DNA-microarray technology we identified the differentially expressed genes of S. mutans, reflecting the physiological state of biofilms formed on the different biomaterials tested. Eight selected genes were further analyzed by real time RT-PCR. To further determine the impact of the tested material surfaces on the physiology of the bacteria, we tested the secretion of AI-2 signal by S. mutans embedded on those biofilms. Comparative transcriptome analyses indicated on changes in the S. mutans genome in biofilms formed onto different types of surfaces and enabled us to identify genes most differentially expressed on those surfaces. In addition, the levels of autoinducer-2 in biofilms from the various tested surfaces were different.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that gene expression of S. mutans differs in biofilms formed on tested surfaces, which manifest the physiological state of bacteria influenced by the type of surface material they accumulate onto. Moreover, the stressful circumstances of adjustment to the surface may persist in the bacteria enhancing intercellular signaling and surface dependent biofilm formation.
Hfq affects mRNA levels independently of degradation
Authors: Le Derout Jacques , Boni Irina V , Régnier Philippe , Hajnsdorf Eliane
Published: February 2010

Background

The bacterial Lsm protein, Hfq, is an RNA chaperone involved in many reactions related to RNA metabolism, such as replication and stability, control of small RNA activity and polyadenylation. Despite this wide spectrum of known functions, the global role of Hfq is almost certainly undervalued; its capacity to bind DNA and to interact with many other proteins are only now beginning to be taken into account.

Results

The role of Hfq in the maturation and degradation of the rpsO mRNA of E. coli was investigated in vivo. The data revealed a decrease in rpsO mRNA abundance concomitant to an increase in its stability when Hfq is absent. This indicates that the change in mRNA levels in hfq mutants does not result from its modification of RNA stability. Moreover, a series of independent experiments have revealed that the decrease in mRNA level is not a consequence of a reduction of translation efficiency and that Hfq is not directly implicated in translational control of rpsO expression. Reduced steady-state mRNA levels in the absence of Hfq were also shown for rpsT, rpsB and rpsB-tsf, but not for lpp, pnp or tRNA transcripts. The abundance of chimeric transcripts rpsO-lacZ and rpsB-lacZ, whose expression was driven by rpsO and rpsB promoters, respectively, was also lower in the hfq null-mutants, while the β-galactosidase yield remained about the same as in the parent wild-type strain.

Conclusions

The data obtained suggest that alteration of rpsO, rpsT and rpsB-tsf transcript levels observed under conditions of Hfq deficiency is not caused by the post-transcriptional events, such as mRNA destabilization or changes in translation control, and may rather result from changes in transcriptional activity. So far, how Hfq affects transcription remains unclear. We propose that one of the likely mechanisms of Hfq-mediated modulation of transcription might operate early in the elongation step, when interaction of Hfq with a nascent transcript would help to overcome transcription pauses and to prevent preliminary transcript release.
Evaluation of health promotion in schools: a realistic evaluation approach using mixed methods
Authors: Pommier Jeanine , Guével Marie-Renée , Jourdan Didier
Published: February 2010

Background

Schools are key settings for health promotion (HP) but the development of suitable approaches for evaluating HP in schools is still a major topic of discussion. This article presents a research protocol of a program developed to evaluate HP. After reviewing HP evaluation issues, the various possible approaches are analyzed and the importance of a realistic evaluation framework and a mixed methods (MM) design are demonstrated.

Methods/Design

The design is based on a systemic approach to evaluation, taking into account the mechanisms, context and outcomes, as defined in realistic evaluation, adjusted to our own French context using an MM approach. The characteristics of the design are illustrated through the evaluation of a nationwide HP program in French primary schools designed to enhance children's social, emotional and physical health by improving teachers' HP practices and promoting a healthy school environment. An embedded MM design is used in which a qualitative data set plays a supportive, secondary role in a study based primarily on a different quantitative data set. The way the qualitative and quantitative approaches are combined through the entire evaluation framework is detailed.

Discussion

This study is a contribution towards the development of suitable approaches for evaluating HP programs in schools. The systemic approach of the evaluation carried out in this research is appropriate since it takes account of the limitations of traditional evaluation approaches and considers suggestions made by the HP research community.
The evaluation of a Taiwanese training program in smoking cessation and the trainees' adherence to a practice guideline
Authors: Guo Fei-Ran , Hung Ling-Yu , Chang Chih-Jen , Leung Kai-Kuen , Chen Ching-Yu
Published: February 2010

Background

The Taiwanese government began reimbursement for smoking cessation in 2002. Certification from a training program was required for physicians who wanted reimbursement. The program certified 6,009 physicians till 2007. The objective of this study is to evaluate the short- and long term efficacy of the training program.

Methods

For short term evaluation, all trainees in 2007 were recruited. For long term evaluation, computer randomly selected 2,000 trainees who received training from 2002 to 2006 were recruited. Course satisfaction, knowledge, confidence in providing smoking cessation services and the adherence to a practice guideline were evaluated by questionnaires.

Results

Trainees reported high satisfaction with the training program. There was significant difference between pre- and post-test scores in knowledge. Confidence in providing services was lower in the long term evaluation compared to short term evaluation. For adherence to a practice guideline, 86% asked the status of smoking, 88% advised the smokers to quit, 76% assessed the smoker's willingness to quit, 59% assisted the smokers to quit, and 60% arranged follow-up visits for smokers. The incentive of reimbursement was the most significant factor affecting confidence and adherence.

Conclusions

The training program was satisfactory and effective. Adherence to a practice guideline in our study was better than studies without physician training in other countries.
Immunohistochemical detection of transgene expression in the brain using small epitope tags
Authors: Lobbestael Evy , Reumers Veerle , Ibrahimi Abdelilah , Paesen Kirsten , Thiry Irina , Gijsbers Rik , Van den Haute Chris , Debyser Zeger , Baekelandt Veerle , Taymans Jean-Marc
Published: February 2010

Background

In vivo overexpression of proteins is a powerful approach to study their biological function, generate disease models or evaluate gene therapy approaches. In order to investigate an exogenously expressed protein, specific and sensitive detection is essential. Unfortunately, antibodies that allow histological detection of the protein of interest are not always readily available. The use of an epitope tag fused to the protein can circumvent this problem as well as provide the possibility to discriminate endogenous from overexpressed proteins. In order to minimize impact on the bioactivity and biodistribution of the overexpressed protein, preference is given to small tags.

Results

In the present study, we evaluated several small epitope tags together with corresponding anti-tag antibodies for the detection of overexpressed proteins in rat brain, using eGFP as a reference. We generated several lentiviral vectors encoding eGFP with different N-terminally fused small epitope tags (AU1, flag, 3flag, HA, myc and V5). After confirmation of their functionality in cell culture, we injected these lentiviral vectors stereotactically into the striatum of rats and prepared paraformaldehyde fixed floating sections for immunohistochemical analysis. Using multiple antibodies and antibody dilutions per epitope tag, we extensively assessed the efficiency of several anti-tag antibodies for chromogenic immunohistochemical detection of the epitope tagged eGFPs by determining the proportion of immunoreactivity detected by anti-tag antibodies compared to anti-GFP antibody. Using fluorescence immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy, we also quantified the proportion of eGFP-positive cells detected by anti-tag antibodies. Our results show that all the examined small epitope tags could be detected by anti-tag antibodies both in cell extracts as well as in vivo, although to varying degrees depending on the tag and antibody used. Using the presented protocol, V5/anti-V5 and HA/HA11 tag/antibody combinations provided the most sensitive detection in brain tissue. We confirmed the applicability of these optimized in vivo tag detection conditions for a difficult to detect protein, firefly luciferase (fLuc), using lentiviral vector constructs expressing V5 tagged and 3flag tagged fLuc protein.

Conclusions

We show here that several small epitope tags are useful for immunohistochemical detection of exogenous proteins in vivo. Our study also provides a generic methodology which is broadly applicable for the detection of overexpressed transgenes in mammalian brain tissue.
Dissecting the roles of DR4, DR5 and c-FLIP in the regulation of Geranylgeranyltransferase I inhibition-mediated augmentation of TRAIL-induced apoptosis
Authors: Chen Shuzhen , Fu Lei , Raja Shruti M , Yue Ping , Khuri Fadlo R , Sun Shi-Yong
Published: February 2010

Background

Geranylgeranyltransferase I (GGTase I) has emerged as a cancer therapeutic target. Accordingly, small molecules that inhibit GGTase I have been developed and exhibit encouraging anticancer activity in preclinical studies. However, their underlying anticancer mechanisms remain unclear. Here we have demonstrated a novel mechanism by which GGTase I inhibition modulates apoptosis.

Results

The GGTase I inhibitor GGTI-298 induced apoptosis and augmented tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL)-induced apoptosis in human lung cancer cells. GGTI-298 induced DR4 and DR5 expression and reduced c-FLIP levels. Enforced c-FLIP expression or DR5 knockdown attenuated apoptosis induced by GGTI-298 and TRAIL combination. Surprisingly, DR4 knockdown sensitized cancer cells to GGTI298/TRAIL-induced apoptosis. The combination of GGTI-298 and TRAIL was more effective than each single agent in decreasing the levels of IκBα and p-Akt, implying that GGTI298/TRAIL activates NF-κB and inhibits Akt. Interestingly, knockdown of DR5, but not DR4, prevented GGTI298/TRAIL-induced IκBα and p-Akt reduction, suggesting that DR5 mediates reduction of IκBα and p-Akt induced by GGTI298/TRAIL. In contrast, DR4 knockdown further facilitated GGTI298/TRAIL-induced p-Akt reduction.

Conclusions

Both DR5 induction and c-FLIP downregulation contribute to GGTI-298-mediated augmentation of TRAIL-induced apoptosis. Moreover, DR4 appears to play an opposite role to DR5 in regulation of GGTI/TRAIL-induced apoptotic signaling.
Characterization of transgene expression in adenoviral vector-based HIV-1 vaccine candidates
Authors: Takahashi Marie-Noëlle , Rolling Judith A , Owen Katherine E
Published: February 2010

Recombinant adenovirus vectors have been extensively used in gene therapy clinical studies. More recently, the capability of inducing potent cell-mediated and humoral immunity has made these vectors equally attractive candidates for prophylactic or therapeutic vaccine applications. Merck and Co., Inc., developed HIV-1 vaccine candidates based on adenovirus serotype 5 (Ad5) vectors in which the E1 gene, a critical component for adenovirus replication, was replaced by the cytomegalovirus immediate/early promoter, followed by mutated versions of the HIV-1 gag, pol or nef genes (constructs referred to as MRKAd5gag, MRKAd5pol and MRKAd5nef, respectively). Vaccine performance was evaluated in vitro in a novel assay that measures the level of transgene expression in non-permissive A549 cells. Various combinations of vectors were studied. The results indicate that the vaccine induces a dose-dependent expression of the HIV-1 transgenes in vitro. Furthermore, the gag, pol, and nef transgenes are expressed differentially in A549 cells in an MOI-dependent and formulation-dependent manner, yielding an unexpected enhancement of protein expression in trivalent vs. monovalent formulations. Our data suggest that the presence of additional virus in multivalent formulations increases individual transgene expression in A549 cells, even when the amount of DNA encoding the gene of interest remains constant. This enhancement appears to be controlled at the transcriptional level and related to both the total amount of virus and the combination of transgenes present in the formulation.
Antibody dependent enhancement of frog virus 3 infection
Authors: Eaton Heather E , Penny Emily , Brunetti Craig R
Published: February 2010

Background

Viruses included in the family Iridoviridae are large, icosahedral, dsDNA viruses that are subdivided into 5 genera. Frog virus 3 (FV3) is the type species of the genus Ranavirus and the best studied iridovirus at the molecular level. Typically, antibodies directed against a virus act to neutralize the virus and limit infection. Antibody dependent enhancement occurs when viral antibodies enhance infectivity of the virus rather than neutralize it.

Results

Here we show that anti-FV3 serum present at the time of FV3 infection enhances infectivity of the virus in two non-immune teleost cell lines. We found that antibody dependent enhancement of FV3 was dependent on the Fc portion of anti-FV3 antibodies but not related to complement. Furthermore, the presence of anti-FV3 serum during an FV3 infection in a non-immune mammalian cell line resulted in neutralization of the virus. Our results suggest that a cell surface receptor specific to teleost cell lines is responsible for the enhancement.

Conclusions

This report represents the first evidence of antibody dependent enhancement in iridoviruses. The data suggests that anti-FV3 serum can either neutralize or enhance viral infection and that enhancement is related to a novel antibody dependent enhancement pathway found in teleosts that is Fc dependent.
Method for analysing multi-path power flow transmissions
Authors: Ciobotaru T , Frunzeti D , Rus I , Jäntschi L
Published: February 2010

This paper presents a method for fast calculation of the ratios and overall efficiency of epicyclic gearboxes applying a general method used for multi-path power flow transmissions. The method may be used as a first estimate for deriving conclusions regarding the manner in which the power is transmitted in multi-path power flow transmissions and has immediate application in tracking down of the situation of closed loop power circulation. In addition, the method presented has direct applicability for the analysis of epicyclic gearboxes, as well as for tracked vehicles’ transmissions with multi-path power transmission, during the steering of the vehicle.
Transducers for the determination of the pressure and shear stress distribution at the stump—socket interface of trans-tibial amputees
Authors: Abu Osman N A , Spence W D , Solomonidis S E , Paul J P , Weir A M
Published: February 2010

Recent developments in prosthetic socket design have created renewed interest in monitoring the stress distribution at the socket—residual limb interface. Although a few devices for measuring pressure can be found in the literature, none are capable of measuring reliably in areas of high curvature, such as the important area at the patellar tendon bar. Furthermore, few devices can record shear stress, thought to be critical in causing tissue damage. In order to address these issues two new transducers have been designed and evaluated. One design allows the simultaneous recording of the normal and shear stresses at various points of the socket walls, while the other is capable of measuring the three components of the force applied on the patellar tendon. The latter design incorporates a feature that permits displacement of the patellar tendon bar, in order to study the effect of various amounts of indentation of the tendon on the stress distribution around the residual limb. Both transducers were calibrated using dead weights and special jigs to ensure accurate loading conditions. Under laboratory bench conditions the normal—shear force transducer showed: 2.03 per cent full scale output (FSO) hysteresis error for shear stress direction, 1.65 per cent FSO for normal direction; 99.56 per cent FSO overall accuracy for shear direction, and within 99.64 per cent FSO for normal direction; and for the patellar tendon transducer 1.53 per cent FSO hysteresis error for shear direction, 1.85 per cent FSO for shear stress direction; 99.65 per cent FSO overall accuracy for shear direction, and 99.58 per cent FSO for normal direction. During an amputee walking trial the transducers showed 92 per cent to 97 per cent repeatability. The two new transducers were used in conjunction with two other types of transducers, previously designed at the University of Strathclyde, in a series of tests on ten trans-tibial amputees. Sample results for walking activities and a summary of maximum stresses recorded are presented.
Performance, combustion, and emissions characteristics of a single-cylinder compression ignition engine operated on ethanol—biodiesel blended fuels
Authors: Banapurmath N R , Tewari P G
Published: February 2010

Fossil fuels such as oil, gas, and coal have driven the world's economies since the industrial revolution and have released carbon emissions in the process. About 26 billion tons of carbon dioxide are produced every year and this is still increasing. The 1997 Kyoto agreement is the world's only attempt to regulate carbon emissions. Diesel engines have been widely used as the major propulsion power sources because of their simple, robust construction coupled with high thermal efficiency and specific power output with high fuel economy. However, diesel engines are the major contributors of various types of air pollutants such as carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NO x), particulate matter (PM), and other harmful compounds. The reduction in engine emissions is a major research objective in the engine development because of increasing concern for the environment pollution and more stringent government regulation on exhaust emissions. It is difficult to reduce PM and NO x simultaneously owing to the trade-off between PM and NO x [1]
Fatal accidental fall from height in infants and children: a study from South Delhi
Authors: Behera C , Rautji Ravi , Dogra T D
Published: February 2010

One hundred and seventy-four deaths of infants and children due to accidental fall from height received from South Delhi for autopsy were studied during the 10-year period from January 1998 to December 2007 at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi. Data were analysed with regard to age, sex, location of fall, height of fall, pattern of injury, cause of death and seasonal variation. These cases represented approximately 22.56% of all deaths due to a fall from height and 1.31% of all medicolegal autopsies conducted during the period. There were 106 male (60.9%) and 68 female (39.1%) victims. Age-specific rate of fall showed that the highest rate was in toddlers (39.65%), followed by 26.43% each in preschool children and school-going children and the least in infants (7.47%). The head and face was the most frequently injured body region (93.67%) and the skull was the commonest bone fractured (59.19%). The most common cause of death was head injury (84.48%). Major fall sites in decreasing order of frequency were rooftop (38.50%), balcony (24.13%), household furniture (21.26%), staircase (6.89%), window (4.59%), wall (1.72%), rickshaw/bicycle (1.15%) and tree (0.57%). Most fatalities due to a fall from height were reported in the rainy season.