bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Upper mantle structure of southern Africa from Rayleigh wave tomography
Authors: Li Aibing , Burke Kevin
Published: October 2006

Rayleigh wave phase velocities in southern Africa have been obtained at 18 periods from 20 to 167 s using a two‐plane wave method. These phase velocities are utilized in subsequent inversions to solve for shear wave structure in the crust and upper mantle of southern Africa. A fast lithosphere lid is imaged beneath most parts of southern Africa. The lid thickness is estimated on the basis of the variation of shear wave velocity with depth and ranges from ∼80 km beneath the Namaqua‐Natal belt to 180 ± 20 km beneath the Kaapvaal craton. Relative low velocities are observed under the Cape Fold Belt and beneath the tectonic border regions in the shallow upper mantle. The Bushveld Complex is relatively slower than its surroundings above 100 km, probably because of high iron content that resulted from an intracratonic intrusion at 2.05 Ga. A relative low‐velocity zone (LVZ) is observed at the depths of 160–260 km across southern Africa with an average velocity of ∼4.5 km/s. This layer, although not absolutely slow, is ∼4% slower than the fast lithosphere above it. The velocity reduction in this layer varies from 4.8% at the edges of the Kaapvaal craton to 1.5% at its center. Such a large velocity reduction and a strong lateral variation in the LVZ cannot be totally attributed to compositional and petrologic effects. Our preferred interpretation is that the LVZ is largely caused by high temperature. It is probably associated with sublithospheric mantle convection and should make contributions to supporting the high elevation of southern Africa.
Oyashio seasonal intensification and its effect on subsurface temperature variation off the Sanriku coast
Authors: Isoguchi Osamu , Kawamura Hiroshi
Published: October 2006

The Oyashio seasonal intensification and its effect on subsurface temperature fields off the Sanriku coast are investigated, based on indices of the Oyashio current. These indices include altimeter‐based eddy drifting velocities (EDV) and tide gauge sea levels at Petropavlovsk‐Kamchatsky (PK), where the Oyashio upstream region is located. The annual cycles of EDV, the PK sea levels and the Sverdrup transport for the range of 40–50°N (SV) show similar seasonal features that have (1) maximums in early winter and (2) small secondary local peaks in early summer. These indicate that the Oyashio seasonal variation is mainly governed by the Sverdrup dynamics. The early winter intensification recognized as the general Oyashio seasonal variation involves a large and rapid change from late autumn to early winter, which is roughly explained by the southward shift of westerlies. Its onset timing, which undergoes large year‐to‐year variability, is indeed determined by the timing of the southward migration of the westerly jet. The early summer intensification can also be explained by a barotoropic response to the intraseasonal evolution of atmospheric circulation in the Baiu (rainy) season, which is observed characteristically in East Asia and East Siberia. The seasonal cycle of subsurface temperatures off the Sanriku coast, where the Oyashio water meets the Kuroshio water, shows (1) a minimum in April and (2) a secondary local minimum in July. The cooling cycle is qualitatively explained by lateral heat advection by the Oyashio current.
Effects of chronic treatment with statins and fenofibrate on rat skeletal muscle: a biochemical, histological and electrophysiological study
Authors: Pierno S , Didonna M P , Cippone V , De Luca A , Pisoni M , Frigeri A , Nicchia G P , Svelto M , Chiesa G , Sirtori C , Scanziani E , Rizzo C , De Vito D , Conte Camerino D
Published: October 2006

Background and purpose:

Skeletal muscle injury by hypolipidemic drugs is not fully understood. An extensive analysis of the effect of chronic treatment with fluvastatin (5 mgkg‐1 and 20 mgkg‐1), atorvastatin (10 mgkg‐1) and fenofibrate (60 mgkg‐1) on rat skeletal muscle was undertaken.

Experimental approach:

Myoglobinemia as sign of muscle damage was measured by enzymatic assay. Histological and immunohistochemical techniques were used to estimate muscle integrity and the presence of aquaporin‐4, a protein controlling water homeostasis. Electrophysiological evaluation of muscle Cl‐ conductance (gCl) and mechanical threshold (MT) for contraction, index of intracellular calcium homeostasis, was performed by the two‐intracellular microelectrodes technique.

Key results:

Fluvastatin (20 mgkg‐1) increased myoglobinemia. The lower dose of fluvastatin did not modify myoglobinemia, but reduced urinary electrolytes, suggesting direct effects on renal function. Atorvastatin also increased myoglobinemia, with slight effects on urinary parameters. No treatment caused any histological damage to muscle or modification in the number of fibres expressing aquaporin‐4. Either fluvastatin (at both doses) or atorvastatin reduced sarcolemma gCl and changed MT. Both statins produced slight effects on total cholesterol, suggesting that the observed modifications occur independently of HMGCoA‐reductase inhibition. Fenofibrate increased myoglobinemia and decreased muscle gCl, whereas it did not change the MT, suggesting a different mechanism of action from the statins.

Conclusions and Implications

This study identifies muscle gCl and MT as early targets of drugs action that may contribute to milder symptoms of myotoxicity, such as muscle cramps, while the increase of myoglobinemia is a later phenomenon.

British Journal of Pharmacology (2006) 149, 909–919. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0706917
Characterization of a selective and potent antagonist of human P2X7receptors, AZ11645373
Authors: Stokes L , Jiang L‐H , Alcaraz L , Bent J , Bowers K , Fagura M , Furber M , Mortimore M , Lawson M , Theaker J , Laurent C , Braddock M , Surprenant A
Published: October 2006

Background and purpose:

The ATP‐gated P2X7receptor has been shown to play a role in several inflammatory processes, making it an attractive target for anti‐inflammatory drug discovery. We have recently identified a novel set of cyclic imide compounds that inhibited P2X7receptor‐mediated dye uptake in human macrophage THP‐1 cells. In this study the actions and selectivity of one of these compounds, AZ11645373, were characterized.

Experimental approach:

We measured membrane currents, calcium influx, and YOPRO‐1 uptake from HEK cells expressing individual P2X receptors, and YOPRO1 uptake and interleukin‐1β release from THP‐1 cells in response to ATP and the ATP analogue benzoylbenzoyl ATP (BzATP).

Key results:

AZ11645373 up to 10 μM, had no agonist or antagonist actions on membrane currents due to P2X receptor activation at human P2X1, rat P2X2, human P2X3, rat P2X2/3, human P2X4, or human P2X5receptors expressed in HEK cells. AZ11645373 inhibited human P2X7receptor responses in HEK cells in a non‐surmountable manner withKBvalues ranging from 5 ‐ 20 nM, with mean values not significantly different between assays.KBvalues were not altered by removing extracellular calcium and magnesium. ATP‐evoked IL‐1β release from lipopolysaccharide‐activated THP‐1 cells was inhibited by AZ11645373, IC50= 90 nM. AZ11645373 was > 500‐fold less effective at inhibiting rat P2X7receptor‐mediated currents with less than 50% inhibition occurring at 10 μM.

Conclusions and implications:

AZ11645373 is a highly selective and potent antagonist at human but not rat P2X7receptors and will have much practical value in studies of human cells.

British Journal of Pharmacology(2006)149, 880–887. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0706933
Mitochondria, the calcium uniporter, and reperfusion‐induced ventricular fibrillation
Authors: Clements‐Jewery H
Published: October 2006

The role of the mitochondria, and in particular the calcium (Ca) uniporter, in mediating reperfusion‐induced arrhythmias is a novel investigative area. This commentary assesses the importance of a new article on this topic, published in this issue of the journal. Ventricular arrhythmogenesis remains an important area of research in the search of novel targets. The article by García‐Rivas et al in this issue represents a possible novel focus for investigation.

British Journal of Pharmacology (2006) 149, 811–813. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0706934
Species and response dependent differences in the effects of MAPK inhibitors on P2X7receptor function
Authors: Michel A D , Thompson K M , Simon J , Boyfield I , Fonfria E , Humphrey P P A
Published: October 2006

Background:

Recent studies have implicated the mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) in cellular permeability changes following P2X7receptor activation in native tissues. In this study we have further studied the effect of MAPK inhibitors on recombinant and native P2X7receptors.

Experimental Approach:

The MAPK inhibitors SB‐203580, SB‐202190 and SB‐242235 were examined in HEK293 cells expressing recombinant P2X7receptors and in THP‐1 cells expressing native human P2X7receptors using a range of experimental approaches.

Key results:

At human recombinant P2X7receptors, SB‐203580 and SB‐202190 were weak, non‐competitive inhibitors (pIC50= 4.8 ‐ 6.4) of ethidium accumulation stimulated by 2’‐ & 3’‐O‐(4benzoylbenzoyl)‐ATP (BzATP) but SB‐242235 (0.1‐10μM) had no effect. SB‐203580 and SB‐202190 had no effect on rat or mouse recombinant P2X7receptors and studies with chimeric P2X7receptors suggested that SB‐203580 was only effective in chimeras containing the N‐terminal 255aa of the human P2X7receptor. SB‐203580 did not consistently affect BzATP‐mediated increases in cell calcium levels and, in electrophysiological studies, it slightly decreased responses to 30μM BzATP but potentiated responses to 100μM BzATP. In THP1 cells, SB‐203580 modestly inhibited BzATP‐stimulated ethidium accumulation (pIC505.7 – <5) but SB‐202190 had no effect. Finally, SB‐203580 did not block BzATP‐stimulated interleukin‐1β release in THP‐1 cells.

Conclusions:

This study confirms that high concentrations of SB‐203580 and SB‐202190 can block human P2X7receptor‐mediated increases in cellular ethidium accumulation but suggest this is not related to MAPK inhibition. Overall, the data cast doubt on a general role of MAPK in mediating P2X7receptor mediated changes in cellular permeability.

British Journal of Pharmacology(2006)149, 948–957. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0706938
6
MeV
heavy ion beam probe on the Large Helical Device
Authors: Ido T. , Shimizu A. , Nishiura M. , Nishizawa A. , Katoh S. , Tsukada K. , Yokota M. , Ogawa H. , Inoue T. , Hamada Y. ,   LHD Experimental Group, Crowley T. P.
Published: October 2006

A heavy ion beam probe (HIBP) has been installed on the Large Helical Device (LHD). A MeV-range beam is required for the LHD-HIBP. The probing beam is accelerated up to 6 MeV by use of a tandem accelerator. A new energy analyzer with tandem electrodes has also been developed to analyze such a high energy beam. As a result, a secondary beam can be detected and its energy successfully analyzed. It is verified, in principle, that the potential profile can be measured using the HIBP.
MyoD inhibits Fstl1 and Utrn expression by inducing transcription of miR-206
Authors: Rosenberg Miriam I. , Georges Sara A. , Asawachaicharn Amy , Analau Erwin , Tapscott Stephen J.
Published: October 2006

Terminal differentiation of distinct cell types requires the transcriptional activation of differentiation-specific genes and the suppression of genes associated with the precursor cell. For example, the expression of utrophin (Utrn) is suppressed during skeletal muscle differentiation, and it is replaced at the sarcolemma by the related dystrophin protein. The MyoD transcription factor directly activates the expression of a large number of skeletal muscle genes, but also suppresses the expression of many genes. To characterize a mechanism of MyoD-mediated suppression of gene expression, we investigated two genes that are suppressed in fibroblasts converted to skeletal muscle by MyoD, follistatin-like 1 (Fstl1) and Utrn. MyoD directly activates the expression of a muscle-specific microRNA (miRNA), miR-206, which targets sequences in the Fstl1 and Utrn RNA, and these sequences are sufficient to suppress gene expression in the presence of miR-206. These findings demonstrate that MyoD, in addition to activating muscle-specific genes, induces miRNAs that repress gene expression during skeletal muscle differentiation.
Promyelocytic leukemia nuclear bodies behave as DNA damage sensors whose response to DNA double-strand breaks is regulated by NBS1 and the kinases ATM, Chk2, and ATR
Authors: Dellaire Graham , Ching Reagan W. , Ahmed Kashif , Jalali Farid , Tse Kenneth C.K. , Bristow Robert G. , Bazett-Jones David P.
Published: October 2006

The promyelocytic leukemia (PML) nuclear body (NB) is a dynamic subnuclear compartment that is implicated in tumor suppression, as well as in the transcription, replication, and repair of DNA. PML NB number can change during the cell cycle, increasing in S phase and in response to cellular stress, including DNA damage. Although topological changes in chromatin after DNA damage may affect the integrity of PML NBs, the molecular or structural basis for an increase in PML NB number has not been elucidated. We demonstrate that after DNA double-strand break induction, the increase in PML NB number is based on a biophysical process, as well as ongoing cell cycle progression and DNA repair. PML NBs increase in number by a supramolecular fission mechanism similar to that observed in S-phase cells, and which is delayed or inhibited by the loss of function of NBS1, ATM, Chk2, and ATR kinase. Therefore, an increase in PML NB number is an intrinsic element of the cellular response to DNA damage.
Embryonic cortical neural stem cells migrate ventrally and persist as postnatal striatal stem cells
Authors: Willaime-Morawek Sandrine , Seaberg Raewyn M. , Batista Claudia , Labbé Etienne , Attisano Liliana , Gorski Jessica A. , Jones Kevin R. , Kam Angela , Morshead Cindi M. , van der Kooy Derek
Published: October 2006

Embryonic cortical neural stem cells apparently have a transient existence, as they do not persist in the adult cortex. We sought to determine the fate of embryonic cortical stem cells by following Emx1IREScre; LacZ/EGFP double-transgenic murine cells from midgestation into adulthood. Lineage tracing in combination with direct cell labeling and time-lapse video microscopy demonstrated that Emx1-lineage embryonic cortical stem cells migrate ventrally into the striatal germinal zone (GZ) perinatally and intermingle with striatal stem cells. Upon integration into the striatal GZ, cortical stem cells down-regulate Emx1 and up-regulate Dlx2, which is a homeobox gene characteristic of the developing striatum and striatal neural stem cells. This demonstrates the existence of a novel dorsal-to-ventral migration of neural stem cells in the perinatal forebrain.
Changes of Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Obese Children Effects of Inpatient and Outpatient Interventions
Authors: Reinehr Thomas , de Sousa Gideon , Wabitsch Martin
Published: October 2006

Objective:

The aim of the study was to compare the benefits of 2 different therapeutic approaches on cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF) in obese children and adolescents.

Methods:

We analyzed the changes of weight status (as standard deviation score‐body mass index [SDS‐BMI]), blood pressure, lipids, and insulin levels in obese children (age range, 10‐14 years) during a 1‐year outpatient intervention based on lifestyle changes (group A, n = 124) and during a 6‐week inpatient intervention program with dietary restriction and exercise therapy (group B, n = 119). In addition, we studied these parameters in 65 obese children without intervention for 1 year (control group).

Results:

Age, degree of overweight, sex, and CVRF did not differ significantly between the control group and the intervention groups at baseline. During the observation period, CVRF did not change in the control group, whereas SDS‐BMI slightly increased (+0.1 SDS‐BMI). The SDS‐BMI decreased significantly (P < 0.001) in group A (SDS‐BMI, −0.40) and comparably in group B (SDS‐BMI, −0.43). The decreases of total (P < 0.001) and low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol levels (P = 0.049) were significantly greater in group B, whereas triglyceride (P = 0.040) and insulin (P = 0.006) levels decreased significantly and were more pronounced in group A. High‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol level increased significantly (P < 0.001) only in group A. Blood pressure decreased significantly (P < 0.01) and comparably in both intervention groups (A and B).

Conclusions:

In contrast to obese children without intervention, CVRF improved in obese children with intervention. The 6‐week inpatient intervention led to a significant greater decrease of total and low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol levels as compared with the 1‐year outpatient intervention, although the outpatient intervention yielded a significantly greater improvement in insulin, triglycerides, and high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol levels.
Growth and Change in Blood Haemoglobin Concentration Among Underweight Malawian Infants Receiving Fortified Spreads for 12 Weeks
Authors: Kuusipalo Heli , Maleta Kenneth , Briend André , Manary Mark , Ashorn Per
Published: October 2006

Objective:

Fortified spreads (FSs) have proven effective in the rehabilitation of severely malnourished children. We examined acceptability, growth and change in blood haemoglobin (Hb) concentration among moderately underweight ambulatory infants given FS.

Methods:

This was a randomised, controlled, parallel‐group, investigator‐blind clinical trial in rural Malawi. Six‐ to 17‐month‐old underweight infants (weight for age <−2), whose weight was greater than 5.5 kg and weight‐for‐height z score greater than −3 received for 12 weeks at home 1 of 8 food supplementation schemes: nothing, 5, 25, 50, or 75 g/day milk‐based FS or 25, 50, or 75 g/day soy‐based FS. Outcome measures included change in weight, length and blood Hb concentration.

Results:

A total of 126 infants started and 125 completed the intervention. All infants accepted the spread well, and no intolerance was recorded. Average weight and length gains were higher among infants receiving daily 25 to 75 g FS than among those receiving only 0 to 5 g FS. Mean Hb concentration remained unchanged among unsupplemented controls but increased by 10 to 17 g/L among infants receiving any FS. All average gains were largest among infants receiving 50 g of FS daily: mean difference (95% confidence interval) in the 12‐week gain between infants in 50 g milk‐based FS group and the unsupplemented group was 290 g (range, −130 to 700 g), 0.9 cm (range, −0.3 to 2.2 cm), and 17 g/L (range, 0 to 34 g/L) for weight, length and blood Hb concentration, respectively. In soy‐ vs milk‐based FS groups, average outcomes were comparable.

Conclusions:

Supplementation with 25 to 75 g/day of highly fortified spread is feasible and may promote growth and alleviate anaemia among moderately malnourished infants. Further trials should test this hypothesis.
PrP genotypes of atypical scrapie cases in Great Britain
Authors: Saunders G. C. , Cawthraw S. , Mountjoy S. J. , Hope J. , Windl O.
Published: October 2006

Great Britain and elsewhere have detected atypical scrapie infection in sheep with PrP genotypes thought to be genetically resistant to the classical form of scrapie. DNA sequencing of the PrP gene of British atypical scrapie cases (n=69), classical scrapie cases (n=59) and scrapie-free controls (n=138) was undertaken to identify whether PrP variants, other than the three well-characterized polymorphic codons, influenced susceptibility to atypical scrapie infection. Four non-synonymous changes, M112T, M137T, L141F and P241S, were detected that are most probably associated with the A136R154Q171 haplotype. Only the PrP variant containing a phenylalanine residue at amino acid position 141 was found to be associated more commonly with the atypical scrapie cases. In addition to the single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with the ARQ allele, two out of nine atypical scrapie cases with the ARR/ARR genotype were found to contain a 24 bp insertion, leading to an additional octapeptide repeat. In terms of PrP genetics, one classification of the GB scrapie cases examined in this study would place animals carrying any homozygous or heterozygous combination of ARR, AHQ or AF141RQ alleles, or any one of these alleles when paired with ARQ, as being susceptible to atypical scrapie infection, and animals heterozygous or homozygous for VRQ or homozygous for ARQ as being susceptible to classical scrapie disease. The AHQ PrP allele was associated with the highest incidence of atypical scrapie (263 per 100 000 alleles), whilst VRQ was associated with the lowest incidence (10 per 100 000 alleles).
Identification of the cleavage sites of sapovirus open reading frame 1 polyprotein
Authors: Oka Tomoichiro , Yamamoto Mami , Katayama Kazuhiko , Hansman Grant S. , Ogawa Satoko , Miyamura Tatsuo , Takeda Naokazu
Published: October 2006

Sapovirus (SaV), a member of the familyCaliciviridae, is a causative agent of acute gastroenteritis in humans and swine and is currently divided into five genogroups, GI–GV. The proteolytic processing of the SaV open reading frame 1 (ORF1) polyprotein with a human GII SaV Mc10 strain has recently been determined and the products are arranged in the following order: NH2–p11–p28–p35 (NTPase)–p32–p14 (VPg)–p70 (Pro–Pol)–p60 (VP1)–COOH. The cleavage site between p14 (VPg) and p70 (Pro–Pol) was identified as E1055/A1056by N-terminal amino acid sequencing. To identify other cleavage sites, a series of GII SaV Mc10 full-length clones containing disrupted potential cleavage sites in the ORF1 polyprotein were constructed and used to generate linear DNA templates forin vitrocoupled transcription–translation. The translation products were analysed by SDS-PAGE or by immunoprecipitation with region-specific antibodies. N-terminal amino acid sequencing withEscherichia coli-expressed recombinant proteins was also used to identify the cleavage site between p32 and p14. These approaches enabled identification of the six cleavage sites of the Mc10 ORF1 polyprotein as E69/G70, Q325/G326, Q666/G667, E940/A941, E1055/A1056and E1722/G1723. The alignment of the SaV full-length ORF1 amino acid sequences indicated that the dipeptides used for the cleavage sites were either E or Q at the P1 position and A, G or S at the P1′ position, which were conserved in the GI, GII, GIII, GIV and GV SaV ORF1 polyprotein.
Patterns of PrPCWD accumulation during the course of chronic wasting disease infection in orally inoculated mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus)
Authors: Fox Karen A. , Jewell Jean E. , Williams Elizabeth S. , Miller Michael W.
Published: October 2006

Patterns of abnormal prion protein (PrP) accumulation during the course of chronic wasting disease (CWD) infection were studied and the distribution and timing of disease-associated PrP (PrPCWD) deposition and lesions in 19 mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) 90–785 days after oral inoculation were described. PrPCWD deposition occurred relatively rapidly and widely in lymphoid tissues, later in central and peripheral nervous tissues and sporadically in a variety of tissues and organs in terminal disease stages. Development of spongiform encephalopathy lagged behind PrPCWD deposition in the central nervous system (CNS), but occurred in the same neuroanatomical locations. PrPCWD deposition in the lymphatic and nervous systems tended to be consistent and progressive in specific organs and tissues. Locations of PrPCWD deposition were similar between deer of two PrP genotypes (225SS and 225SF), but the time course differed between genotypes: in 225SF deer, PrPCWD accumulated more slowly in lymphatic tissues than in 225SS animals, but that disparity was small in comparison to the disparity between genotypes in timing of deposition in CNS tissue. These data confirm retropharyngeal lymph node and medulla oblongata at the level of the obex as early sites of PrPCWD accumulation in mule deer with CWD. Data on the relative time frames for and genetic influences on PrPCWD accumulation may also offer insights about epidemic dynamics and potential control strategies.
Lymphoid follicles of the ileal Peyer's patch of lambs express low levels of PrP, as demonstrated by quantitative real-time RT-PCR on microdissected tissue compartments, in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry
Authors: Austbø Lars , Espenes Arild , Olsaker Ingrid , Press Charles McL. , Skretting Grethe
Published: October 2006

The expression level of normal cellular prion protein (PrPC) is thought to influence the transmission of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) from the peripheral entry site to the site of pathological changes in the central nervous system. In many TSEs, the clinical disease is preceded by a period in which the agent accumulates in lymphoid organs, particularly in association with follicular dendritic cells of lymphoid follicles. As the probable route of entry of the TSE agent is via the gut, the expression profile of PrP was examined in well-developed gut-associated lymphoid tissue of lambs, the ileal Peyer's patch, by laser microdissection and real-time RT-PCR. Lymphoid follicles were found to have very low levels of expression, whilst highest levels were detected in the outer submucosa and the muscular layer. These findings were supported byin situhybridization and immunohistochemistry, which showed specific labelling in nerve cells in ganglia of the submucosal (Meissner's) and myenteric (Auerbach's) plexi of the enteric nervous system. Based on the assumption that potential sites for conversion to the scrapie-related prion protein (PrPSc) should display high levels of expression of PrPC, this study suggests that the accumulation of PrPScin the lymphoid follicles of the Peyer's patch is not preceded by PrP conversion in the same tissue compartment.
Papillomavirus in healthy skin of Australian animals
Authors: Antonsson Annika , McMillan Nigel A. J.
Published: October 2006

Papillomaviruses are a group of ubiquitous viruses that are often found in normal skin of humans, as well as a range of different vertebrates. In this study, swab samples collected from the healthy skin of 225 Australian animals from 54 species were analysed for the presence of papillomavirus DNA with the general skin papillomavirus primer pair FAP59/FAP64. A total of five putative and potential new animal papillomavirus types were identified from three different animal species. The papillomaviruses were detected in one monotreme and two marsupial species: three from koalas, and one each from an Eastern grey kangaroo and an echidna. The papillomavirus prevalence in the three species was 14 % (10/72) in koalas, 20 % (1/5) in echidnas and 4 % (1/23) in Eastern grey kangaroos. Phylogenetic analysis was performed on the putative koala papillomavirus type that could be cloned and it appears in the phylogenetic tree as a novel putative papillomavirus genus. The data extend the range of species infected by papillomaviruses to the most primitive mammals: the monotremes and the marsupials.
Dual topology of the processed hepatitis C virus protein NS4B is influenced by the NS5A protein
Authors: Lundin Marika , Lindström Hannah , Grönwall Caroline , Persson Mats A. A.
Published: October 2006

Among the least-known hepatitis C virus proteins is the non-structural protein 4B (NS4B). It localizes to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane and induces membrane changes, resulting in a membranous web that is reported to be the locale for virus replication. A model was presented previously for the topology of recombinant HCV NS4B of the 1a genotype based onin vitrodata. In this model, the N-terminal tail of a considerable fraction of the NS4B molecules was translocated into the ER lumen via a post-translational process, giving the protein a dual transmembrane topology. It is now reported that translocation of the N terminus also occurs for processed NS4B expressed in cells in the context of the polyprotein. In the presence of NS5A, however, a lower degree of translocation was observed, which may indicate that NS5A influences the topology of NS4B.In vitroexpression studies of NS4B from all major genotypes demonstrated that translocation of the N terminus to the ER lumen is conserved across genotypes. This clearly suggests an important function for this feature. Furthermore, when disrupting a previously reported amphipathic helix (AH) in the N terminus of NS4B, translocation was inhibited. As a disrupted AH also abolished the ability of NS4B to rearrange membranes, these data indicate for the first time an association between translocation of the N terminus and membrane rearrangement. Finally, the present experiments also confirm the predicted location of the first luminal loop to be around aa 112.
Identification of a genomic subgroup of BK polyomavirus spread in European populations
Authors: Ikegaya Hiroshi , Saukko Pekka J. , Tertti Risto , Metsärinne Kaj P. , Carr Michael J. , Crowley Brendan , Sakurada Koichi , Zheng Huai-Ying , Kitamura Tadaichi , Yogo Yoshiaki
Published: October 2006

BK polyomavirus(BKV) is highly prevalent in the human population, infecting children without obvious symptoms and persisting in the kidney in a latent state. In immunosuppressed patients, BKV is reactivated and excreted in urine. BKV isolates worldwide are classified into four serologically distinct subtypes, I–IV, with subtype I being the most frequently detected. Furthermore, subtype I is subdivided into subgroups based on genomic variations. In this study, the distribution patterns of the subtypes and subgroups of BKV were compared among four patient populations with various immunosuppressive states and of various ethnic backgrounds: (A) Finnish renal-transplant recipients; (B) Irish/English haematopoietic stem-cell transplant recipients with and without haemorrhagic cystitis; (C) Japanese renal-transplant recipients; and (D) Japanese bone-marrow transplant recipients. The typing sequences (287 bp) of BKV in population A were determined in this study; those in populations B–D have been reported previously. These sequences were subjected to phylogenetic and single nucleotide polymorphism analyses. Based on the results of these analyses, the BKV isolates in the four patient populations were classified into subtypes and subgroups. The incidence of subtype IV varied significantly among patient populations. Furthermore, the incidence of subgroup Ib-2 within subtype I was high in populations A and B, whereas that of Ic was high in populations C and D (P<0.01). These results suggest that subgroup Ib-2 is widespread among Europeans, whereas Ic is unique to north-east Asians. Furthermore, a phylogenetic analysis based on complete BKV DNA sequences supported the hypothesis that there is geographical separation of European and Asian BKV strains.
Molecular phylogenetics of an aquatic plant lineage, Potamogetonaceae
Authors: Lindqvist Charlotte , De Laet Jan , Haynes Robert R. , Aagesen Lone , Keener Brian R. , Albert Victor A.
Published: October 2006

Like most aquatic plants, the pondweeds (Potamogetonaceae) are among the most phenotypically reduced and plastic of all angiosperms. As such, hypotheses of structural homology present difficulties for morphological phylogenetic reconstruction. We used non‐coding nuclear and plastid DNA data to address Potamogetonaceae relationships and accompanying issues in character evolution and biogeography. Genera currently assigned to Potamogetonaceae, plusZannichellia, formed a strongly supported monophyletic group.PotamogetonandStuckenia(Potamogetonsubg.Coleogeton) were both resolved as monophyletic. WithinPotamogetonproper, two major clades followed the traditional split between broad‐ and narrow‐leaved species, with the latter condition optimized as basal. Heterophylly (submerged plus floating leaves) has evolved several times, and the ancestral distribution forPotamogetonappears to be Northern Hemispheric. Our phylogenetic results have provided a useful genetic framework from which to interpret morphological, cytological and biogeographical evolution.

© The Willi Hennig Society 2006.
Genetic instability on chromosome 17 in the epithelium of non‐polypoid colorectal carcinomas compared to polypoid lesions
Authors: Ogawa Taishi , Yoshida Tsutomu , Tsuruta Tomoko , Saigenji Katsunori , Okayasu Isao
Published: October 2006

Early colorectal carcinomas (submucosal invasive adenocarcinomas) can be classified into polypoid growth carcinoma (PG‐Ca) and non‐polypoid growth carcinoma (NPG‐Ca) types, the latter transforming more rapidly to advanced carcinoma. Previously, we indicated that stromal genetic instability might contribute to tumorigenesis of both sporadic and ulcerative colitis‐associated colorectal adenocarcinomas. In the present study, we analyzed genetic instability of both epithelial and surrounding stromal components in PG‐Ca and NPG‐Ca. In 99 colorectal submucosal invasive adenocarcinomas, epithelial and stromal genetic instability was analyzed with National Cancer Institute standard microsatellite markers, chromosome 17 (Chr.17) markers and tumor suppressor gene‐related markers, using a combination of the laser‐captured microdissection and GeneScan approaches. Immunohistochemical analysis was carried out for hMLH1, hMSH2, MGMT and p53. In addition, we investigated methylation of the hMLH1 and MGMT promoters. The frequencies of epithelial microsatellite instability (MSI) with Chr.17 markers were significantly higher in NPG‐Ca (33.3%) compared to PG‐Ca (10.4%), particularly with D17S579 and D17S796. For loss of heterozygosity, only D17S786 showed a significant difference. The frequencies of stromal MSI with all markers were 31.7% and 25.9% in NPG‐Ca and PG‐Ca, respectively, but D17S579 and TP53 showed higher MSI in NPG‐Ca than PG‐Ca. Immunohistochemically, p53 protein expression in PG‐Ca was significantly higher in loss of heterozygosity‐positive cases with altered Chr.17 markers overall, especially the D17S796 marker, compared to cases without genetic instability. These results suggest that epithelial and stromal MSI of Chr.17 markers contributes more to carcinogenesis in NPG‐Ca, whereas stromal genetic instability might be necessary for the development of both types of colorectal carcinoma. (Cancer Sci 2006; 97: 1335–1342)
Plant community and landscape patterns of a floodplain wetland in Maputaland, Northern KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa
Authors: Patrick Marian J. , Ellery William N.
Published: October 2006

The lower Mkuze River floodplain is located east of the Lebombo Mountains on the Maputaland Coastal Plain in northern KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa. The vegetation ecology of the floodplain was examined using the hierarchical framework described by landscape ecology theory. The smallest spatial scale to which the vegetation of the floodplain was described was the relatively homogeneous units of plant communities. From a landscape ecology perspective this level of analysis is referred to as the grain. Six plant communities were identified using two‐way indicator species analysis (TWINSPAN) classification. The distribution of these plant communities were correlated to an underlying inundation‐sedimentation gradient using the ordination technique, detrended correspondence analysis (DCA). This correlation provided a useful foundation for the examination of ecological processes and phenomena at the next higher, spatially coarser level within the landscape hierarchy, namely the reference level. This reference level was described by three functional types delimited by differing flooding and sedimentation regimes. The use of landscape ecology theory guided the interpretation of results by explicitly recognizing the importance of spatial heterogeneity, hierarchical organization and dynamics, and proved invaluable in developing process‐based understanding of the vegetation ecology of the lower Mkuze River floodplain.
Paraoxonase and arylesterase activities in coronary artery disease
Authors: Gur M. , Aslan M. , Yildiz A. , Demirbag R. , Yilmaz R. , Selek S. , Erel O. , Ozdogru I.
Published: October 2006

Background  Paraoxonase‐1 is an enzyme with three activities which are inversely related to cardiovascular diseases. Accordingly, the aim of the study was to investigate the paraoxonase, arylesterase activities and oxidative/anti‐oxidative status in coronary artery disease (CAD) and their correlation with the extent of CAD.

Materials and methods  Study populations of 193 patients with angiographically documented CAD, 83 patients with normal coronary angiograms (NCAD) and 55 healthy volunteers were included in the study. The patients with CAD were divided into three categories according to the number of diseased coronaries. Also, a Gensini score was calculated for each patient. Serum paraoxonase and arylesterase activities were measured spectrophotometrically. Oxidative and anti‐oxidative status was evaluated by measuring serum lipid hydroperoxide (LOOH), total anti‐oxidant status (TAS) and free sulfhydryl groups (–SH = total thiol). Lipid parameters were determined by routine laboratory methods.

Results  Serum paraoxonase and arylesterase activities, TAS and –SH levels were lower in the CAD group compared with the NCAD group and control group (P < 0·05, all). Serum LOOH levels of the CAD group were greater than those in both the control and NCAD groups (P < 0·05). The major decreases in paraoxonase, arylesterase activities, –SH and TAS levels and the major increase in LOOH levels were observed in the 3‐vessels disease group. In multiple linear regression analysis, the Gensini score was independently correlated with paraoxonase activity (β = −0·469, P < 0·001), –SH levels (β = −0·232, P < 0·001), HDL levels and history of diabetes.

Conclusions  Both paraoxonase activity and –SH levels are independently associated with the presence and extent of CAD. Reduced paraoxonase activity and –SH levels may play a role in the severity of coronary atherosclerosis.
Protein biomarkers associated with acute renal failure and chronic kidney disease
Authors: Perco P. , Pleban C. , Kainz A. , Lukas A. , Mayer G. , Mayer B. , Oberbauer R.
Published: October 2006

Acute renal failure (ARF) as well as chronic kidney disease (CKD) are currently categorized according to serum creatinine concentrations. Serum creatinine, however, has shortcomings because of its low predictive values. The need for novel markers for the early diagnosis and prognosis of renal diseases is imminent, particularly for markers reflecting intrinsic organ injury in stages when glomerular filtration is not impaired. This review summarizes protein markers discussed in the context of ARF as well as CKD, and provides an overview on currently available discovery results following ‘omics’ techniques. The identified set of candidate marker proteins is discussed in their cellular and functional context. The systematic review of proteomics and genomics studies revealed 56 genes to be associated with acute or chronic kidney disease. Context analysis, i.e. correlation of biological processes and molecular functions of reported kidney markers, revealed that 15 genes on the candidate list were assigned to the most significant ontology groups: immunity and defence. Other significantly enriched groups were cell communication (14 genes), signal transduction (22 genes) and apoptosis (seven genes). Among 24 candidate protein markers, nine proteins were also identified by gene expression studies. Next generation candidate marker proteins with improved diagnostic and prognostic values for kidney diseases will be derived from whole genome scans and protemics approaches. Prospective validation still remains elusive for all proposed candidates.
Comparison of cervical and blood T‐cell responses to human papillomavirus‐16 in women with human papillomavirus‐associated cervical intraepithelial neoplasia
Authors: Passmore Jo‐Ann S. , Milner Michelle , Denny Lynnette , Sampson Candice , Marais Dianne J. , Allan Bruce , Gumbi Pam P. , Hitzeroth Inga I. , Rybicki Edward P. , Williamson Anna‐Lise
Published: October 2006

Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are obligate epithelial pathogens and typically cause localized mucosal infections. We therefore hypothesized that T‐cell responses to HPV antigens would be greater at sites of pathology than in the blood. Focusing on HPV‐16 because of its association with cervical cancer, the magnitude of HPV‐specific T‐cell responses at the cervix was compared with those in the peripheral blood by intracellular cytokine staining following direct ex vivo stimulation with both virus‐like particles assembled from the major capsid protein L1, and the major HPV oncoprotein, E7. We show that both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells from the cervix responded to the HPV‐16 antigens and that interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) production was HPV type‐specific. Comparing HPV‐specific T‐cell IFN‐γ responses at the cervix with those in the blood, we found that while CD4+ and CD8+ T‐cell responses to L1 were significantly correlated between compartments (P = 0·02 and P = 0·05, respectively), IFN‐γ responses in both T‐cell subsets were significantly greater in magnitude at the cervix than in peripheral blood (P = 0·02 and P = 0·003, respectively). In contrast, both CD4+ and CD8+ T‐cell IFN‐γ responses to E7 were of similar magnitude in both compartments and CD8+ responses were significantly correlated between these distinct immunological compartments (P = 0·04). We therefore show that inflammatory T‐cell responses against L1 (but not E7) demonstrate clear compartmental bias and the magnitude of these responses do reflect local viral replication but that correlation of HPV‐specific responses between compartments indicates their linkage.
Moisture diffusivity in pears: experimental determination and derivation of a mathematical prediction model
Authors: Guiné Raquel P.F.
Published: October 2006

In the present work the dependence of moisture diffusivity on pear composition (in particular, water and sugar concentrations) was examined from the drying rate data measured experimentally. A model for predicting diffusivity that accounts for the effects of three variables (temperature, moisture content and sugar concentration) was then developed, and compared with the model presented by Zogzas and Maroulis (Drying Technology 1996;14:1543), which accounts only for the influence of temperature and moisture concentration. It was observed that the value for the activation energy predicted by the model that includes the influence of the sugar concentration is higher, showing that the amount of sugar present influences the diffusion of moisture through the pear. From the results obtained it was possible to conclude that at constant temperature the diffusivity is increased for higher water contents and lower sugar concentrations. Furthermore, it was possible to observe that higher temperatures have a much more pronounced influence on the diffusivity, compared with lower temperatures.
Measurement and manipulation of aroma delivery allows control of perceived fruit flavour in low‐ and regular‐fat milks
Authors: Shojaei Zahra A. , Linforth Rob S.T. , Hort Joanne , Hollowood Tracey , Taylor Andrew J.
Published: October 2006

To investigate the relationship between aroma delivery and perception, low‐fat (LF) (0.1 g per 100 mL) and regular‐fat (RF) (3.6 g per 100 mL) milk samples were prepared with the same amount of ethyl hexanoate. Sensory analysis was carried out using around ninety panellists (four replicates each) and simultaneous in vivo aroma delivery was measured for every sample. Panellists rated the fruity flavour intensity higher in LF samples using a paired comparison method (P < 0.0001, one‐tailed test). In vivo delivery was expressed as the ratio between the maximum breath concentrations (Imax), measured in the LF and RF samples (i.e. Imax LF milk/Imax RF milk), to remove person‐to‐person variation. The sensory results were in accordance with differences in aroma delivery, with LF samples delivering nearly twice as much ethyl hexanoate as RF samples. Aroma content in LF samples was adjusted so that aroma delivery in vivo was the same for both LF and RF samples. In this case, panellists could not differentiate the samples, showing a good correlation between aroma delivery and perception.
Preparation of sausage from spent duck – an acceptability study
Authors: Bhattacharyya Debashis , Sinhamahapatra Mita , Biswas Subhasish
Published: October 2006

A study was conducted to compare the quality of chicken and duck sausages (in natural and artificial casings) prepared from broiler, spent hen and duck. Emulsions were analyzed for pH, moisture, protein, fat, total plate count (TPC), total psychrophilic count (TPSC) and emulsion stability; and cooked sausages were analyzed for pH, moisture, fat, protein, cooking yield, TPC, TPSC, thiobarbituric acid (TBA) values and sensory qualities. Sausages prepared from broiler meat showed significantly higher moisture content, emulsion stability and cooking yield. Fat content was significantly highest in duck sausage. TPC, TPSC, TBA values and sensory qualities of all the sausages were within the acceptable level up to 14th day of refrigerated storage. Sausages stuffed in natural casing were preferred by consumers. Despite the comparative differences among these sausages, spent duck meat can be used for nutritionally sound and acceptable sausage as the parameters are within the range of standard values.
Bacteriological quality of sheep meat in Mhow town of India
Authors: Yadav Mahendra Mohan , Tale Sham , Sharda Rakesh , Sharma Varsha , Tiwari Sheela , Garg Umesh K.
Published: October 2006

The purpose of this study was to investigate bacterial load in ready‐to‐sale sheep meat with special reference to Salmonella. Samples were collected from 100 sheep carcasses from retail meat shops in domestic markets. On carcasses, where bacterial counts were obtained, the mean of the log10 aerobic plate count was 7.26 cfu g−1, and that of total coliform count and total Escherichia coli count was 4.11 log10 cfu g−1 and 3.03 log10 cfu g−1, respectively. All the samples (100) were found positive for coliforms, 49.0% were positive for E. coli and 3.0% were positive for Salmonella. The isolates were serotyped as Salmonella infantis having antigenic structure 6, 7: r: 1, 5. Antibiogram revealed highest (100.0%) sensitivity towards amikacin, ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, chloramphenicol, colistin sulphate, gentamicin and nalidixic acid followed by cefuroxime and tetracycline (66.67% each) and cotrimoxazole (33.33%). All the strains were resistant to ampicillin.
Developing a Quality Index grading tool for hybrid striped bass (Morone saxatilis × Morone chrysops) based on the Quality Index Method
Authors: Nielsen Durita , Green David
Published: October 2006

A Quality Index Method (QIM) scheme was developed for hybrid striped bass (Morone saxatilis × M. chrysops). The new scheme is a convenient way to estimate storage time and remaining shelf life of fresh hybrid striped bass stored in ice. It consists of eight descriptors resulting in a total allowable score or Quality Index (QI) of fourteen points. Partial least squares regression (PLSR) was used to separate the effects of storage time and origin of fish. The calculated QI related linearly with storage days (QI = 0.483 × days in ice + 1.568, r2 = 0.934). Storage time of unknown samples can be predicted from this relationship with a prediction error of ±1.2 days. Using Quantitative Descriptive Analysis (QDA), the maximum shelf life of fresh hybrid striped bass was determined to be 14 days in ice.