bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HAb18G/CD147 cell-cell contacts confer resistance of a HEK293 subpopulation to anoikis in an E-cadherin-dependent manner
Authors: Ma Xiao-Kui , Wang Li , Li Yu , Yang Xiang-Ming , Zhao Pu , HaoTang  , Zhu Ping , Li Ling , Chen Zhi-Nan
Published: April 2010

Background

Acquisition of resistance to "anoikis" facilitates the survival of cells under independent matrix-deficient conditions, such as cells in tumor progression and the production of suspension culture cells for biomedical engineering. There is evidence suggesting that CD147, an adhesion molecule associated with survival of cells in tumor metastasis and cell-cell contacts, plays an important role in resistance to anoikis. However, information regarding the functions of CD147 in mediating cell-cell contacts and anoikis-resistance remains limited and even self-contradictory.

Results

An anoikis-resistant clone (HEK293ar), derived from anoikis-sensitive parental Human Embryonic Kidney 293 cells, survived anoikis by the formation of cell-cell contacts. The expression of HAb18G/CD147 (a member of the CD147 family) was upregulated and the protein was located at cell-cell junctions. Upregulation of HAb18G/CD147 in suspended HEK293ar cells suppressed anoikis by mediating the formation of cell-cell adhesions. Anoikis resistance in HEK293ar cells also required E-cadherin-mediated cell-cell contacts. Knock-down of HAb18G/CD147 and E-cadherin inhibited cell-cell contacts formation and increased anoikis sensitivity respectively. When HAb18G/CD147 was downregulated, E-cadherin expression in HEK293ar cells was significantly suppressed; however, knockdown of E-cadherin by E-cadherin siRNA or blocking of E-cadherin binding activity with a specific antibody and EDTA had no significant effect on HAb18G/CD147 expression. Finally, pretreatment with LY294002, a phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K/AKT) inhibitor, disrupted cell-cell contacts and decreased cell number, but this was not the case in cells treated with the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) inhibitor PD98059.

Conclusions

Our results provide new evidence that HAb18G/CD147-mediated cell-cell contact confers anoikis resistance in an E-cadherin-dependent manner; and cell-cell contact mediated resistance to anoikis implicates PI3K pathway in a highly relevant cell model (HEK293ar). Understanding of the role of HAb18G/CD147 cell-cell contacts in anoikis resistance may help in understanding the survival of cells in anchorage-independent growth, such as cells in tumor metastasis and suspension culture produced for biomedical engineering. Our results also contribute to a better understanding of the biology of HEK293 cell spheroids, a major workhorse for producing human therapeutic agents and viral vaccines.
A genome-wide survey of sRNAs in the symbiotic nitrogen-fixing alpha-proteobacterium Sinorhizobium meliloti
Authors: Schlüter Jan-Philip , Reinkensmeier Jan , Daschkey Svenja , Evguenieva-Hackenberg Elena , Janssen Stefan , Jänicke Sebastian , Becker Jörg D , Giegerich Robert , Becker Anke
Published: April 2010

Background

Small untranslated RNAs (sRNAs) are widespread regulators of gene expression in bacteria. This study reports on a comprehensive screen for sRNAs in the symbiotic nitrogen-fixing alpha-proteobacteriumSinorhizobium melilotiapplying deep sequencing of cDNAs and microarray hybridizations.

Results

A total of 1,125 sRNA candidates that were classified as trans-encoded sRNAs (173), cis-encoded antisense sRNAs (117), mRNA leader transcripts (379), and sense sRNAs overlapping coding regions (456) were identified in a size range of 50 to 348 nucleotides. Among these were transcripts corresponding to 82 previously reported sRNA candidates. Enrichment for RNAs with primary 5'-ends prior to sequencing of cDNAs suggested transcriptional start sites corresponding to 466 predicted sRNA regions. The consensus σ70promoter motif CTTGAC-N17-CTATAT was found upstream of 101 sRNA candidates. Expression patterns derived from microarray hybridizations provided further information on conditions of expression of a number of sRNA candidates. Furthermore, GenBank, EMBL, DDBJ, PDB, and Rfam databases were searched for homologs of the sRNA candidates identified in this study. Searching Rfam family models with over 1,000 sRNA candidates, re-discovered only those sequences fromS. melilotialready known and stored in Rfam, whereas BLAST searches suggested a number of homologs in related alpha-proteobacteria.

Conclusions

The screening data suggests that inS. melilotiabout 3% of the genes encode trans-encoded sRNAs and about 2% antisense transcripts. Thus, this first comprehensive screen for sRNAs applying deep sequencing in an alpha-proteobacterium shows that sRNAs also occur in high number in this group of bacteria.
The complete genome of Zunongwangia profunda SM-A87 reveals its adaptation to the deep-sea environment and ecological role in sedimentary organic nitrogen degradation
Authors: Qin Qi-Long , Zhang Xi-Ying , Wang Xu-Min , Liu Gui-Ming , Chen Xiu-Lan , Xie Bin-Bin , Dang Hong-Yue , Zhou Bai-Cheng , Yu Jun , Zhang Yu-Zhong
Published: April 2010

Background

Zunongwangia profunda SM-A87, which was isolated from deep-sea sediment, is an aerobic, gram-negative bacterium that represents a new genus of Flavobacteriaceae. This is the first sequenced genome of a deep-sea bacterium from the phylum Bacteroidetes.

Results

The Z. profunda SM-A87 genome has a single 5 128 187-bp circular chromosome with no extrachromosomal elements and harbors 4 653 predicted protein-coding genes. SM-A87 produces a large amount of capsular polysaccharides and possesses two polysaccharide biosynthesis gene clusters. It has a total of 130 peptidases, 61 of which have signal peptides. In addition to extracellular peptidases, SM-A87 also has various extracellular enzymes for carbohydrate, lipid and DNA degradation. These extracellular enzymes suggest that the bacterium is able to hydrolyze organic materials in the sediment, especially carbohydrates and proteinaceous organic nitrogen. There are two clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats in the genome, but their spacers do not match any sequences in the public sequence databases. SM-A87 is a moderate halophile. Our protein isoelectric point analysis indicates that extracellular proteins have lower predicted isoelectric points than intracellular proteins. SM-A87 accumulates organic osmolytes in the cell, so its extracelluar proteins are more halophilic than its intracellular proteins.

Conclusion

Here, we present the first complete genome of a deep-sea sedimentary bacterium from the phylum Bacteroidetes. The genome analysis shows that SM-A87 has some common features of deep-sea bacteria, as well as an important capacity to hydrolyze sedimentary organic nitrogen.
Production of enterodiol from defatted flaxseeds through biotransformation by human intestinal bacteria
Authors: Wang Cheng-Zhi , Ma Xiao-Qing , Yang Dong-Hui , Guo Zhi-Rong , Liu Gui-Rong , Zhao Ge-Xin , Tang Jie , Zhang Ya-Nan , Ma Miao , Cai Shao-Qing , Ku Bao-Shan , Liu Shu-Lin
Published: April 2010

Background

The effects of enterolignans, e.g., enterodiol (END) and particularly its oxidation product, enterolactone (ENL), on prevention of hormone-dependent diseases, such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, hyperlipemia, breast cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer and menopausal syndrome, have attracted much attention. To date, the main way to obtain END and ENL is chemical synthesis, which is expensive and inevitably leads to environmental pollution. To explore a more economic and eco-friendly production method, we explored biotransformation of enterolignans from precursors contained in defatted flaxseeds by human intestinal bacteria.

Results

We cultured fecal specimens from healthy young adults in media containing defatted flaxseeds and detected END from the culture supernatant. Following selection through successive subcultures of the fecal microbiota with defatted flaxseeds as the only carbon source, we obtained a bacterial consortium, designated as END-49, which contained the smallest number of bacterial types still capable of metabolizing defatted flaxseeds to produce END. Based on analysis with pulsed field gel electrophoresis, END-49 was found to consist of five genomically distinct bacterial lineages, designated Group I-V, with Group I strains dominating the culture. None of the individual Group I-V strains produced END, demonstrating that the biotransformation of substrates in defatted flaxseeds into END is a joint work by different members of the END-49 bacterial consortium. Interestingly, Group I strains produced secoisolariciresinol, an important intermediate of END production; 16S rRNA analysis of one Group I strain established its close relatedness with Klebsiella. Genomic analysis is under way to identify all members in END-49 involved in the biotransformation and the actual pathway leading to END-production.

Conclusion

Biotransformation is a very economic, efficient and environmentally friendly way of mass-producing enterodiol from defatted flaxseeds.
Role of nitric oxide in Salmonella typhimurium-mediated cancer cell killing
Authors: Barak Yoram , Schreiber Frank , Thorne Steve H , Contag Christopher H , deBeer Dirk , Matin A
Published: April 2010

Background

Bacterial targeting of tumours is an important anti-cancer strategy. We previously showed that strain SL7838 of Salmonella typhimurium targets and kills cancer cells. Whether NO generation by the bacteria has a role in SL7838 lethality to cancer cells is explored. This bacterium has the mechanism for generating NO, but also for decomposing it.

Methods

Mechanism underlying Salmonella typhimurium tumour therapy was investigated through in vitro and in vivo studies. NO measurements were conducted either by chemical assays (in vitro) or using Biosensors (in vivo). Cancer cells cytotoxic assay were done by using MTS. Bacterial cell survival and tumour burden were determined using molecular imaging techniques.

Results

SL7838 generated nitric oxide (NO) in anaerobic cell suspensions, inside infected cancer cells in vitro and in implanted 4T1 tumours in live mice, the last, as measured using microsensors. Thus, under these conditions, the NO generating pathway is more active than the decomposition pathway. The latter was eliminated, in strain SL7842, by the deletion of hmp- and norV genes, making SL7842 more proficient at generating NO than SL7838. SL7842 killed cancer cells more effectively than SL7838 in vitro, and this was dependent on nitrate availability. This strain was also ca. 100% more effective in treating implanted 4T1 mouse tumours than SL7838.

Conclusions

NO generation capability is important in the killing of cancer cells by Salmonella strains.
Docosahexaenoic acid has influence on action potentials and transient outward potassium currents of ventricular myocytes
Authors: Wang Ru-xing , Li Xiao-rong , Guo Tao , Sun Li-ping , Guo Su-xia , Yang Zhen-Yu , Yang Xiang-Jun , Jiang Wen-ping
Published: April 2010

Background

There are many reports about the anti-arrhythmic effects of ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, however, the mechanisms are still not completely delineated. The purpose of this study was to investigate the characteristics of action potentials and transient outward potassium currents (Ito) of Sprague-Dawley rat ventricular myocytes and the effects of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on action potentials and Ito.

Methods

The calcium-tolerant rat ventricular myocytes were isolated by enzyme digestion. Action potentials and Itoof epicardial, mid-cardial and endocardial ventricular myocytes were recorded by whole-cell patch clamp technique.

Results

1.Action potential durations (APDs) were prolonged from epicardial to endocardial ventricular myocytes (P< 0.05).2.Itocurrent densities were decreased from epicardial to endocardial ventricular myocytes, which were 59.50 ± 15.99 pA/pF, 29.15 ± 5.53 pA/pF, and 12.29 ± 3.62 pA/pF, respectively at +70 mV test potential (P< 0.05).3.APDs were gradually prolonged with the increase of DHA concentrations from 1 μmol/L to 100 μmol/L, however, APDs changes were not significant as DHA concentrations were in the range of 0 μmol/L to 1 μmol/L.4.Itocurrents were gradually reduced with the increase of DHA concentrations from 1 μmol/L to 100 μmol/L, and its half-inhibited concentration was 5.3 μmol/L. The results showed that there were regional differences in the distribution of action potentials and Itoin rat epicardial, mid-cardial and endocardial ventricular myocytes. APDs were prolonged and Itocurrent densities were gradually reduced with the increase of DHA concentrations.

Conclusion

The anti-arrhythmia mechanisms of DHA are complex, however, the effects of DHA on action potentials and Itomay be one of the important causes.
Functioning and health in patients with cancer on home-parenteral nutrition: a qualitative study
Authors: Mueller Martin , Lohmann Stefanie , Thul Paul , Weimann Arved , Grill Eva
Published: April 2010

Background

Malnutrition is a common problem in patients with cancer. One possible strategy to prevent malnutrition and further deterioration is to administer home-parenteral nutrition (HPN). While the effect on survival is still not clear, HPN presumably improves functioning and quality of life. Thus, patients' experiences concerning functioning and quality of life need to be considered when deciding on the provision of HPN. Currently used quality of life measures hardly reflect patients' perspectives and experiences. The objective of our study was to investigate the perspectives of patients with cancer on their experience of functioning and health in relation to HPN in order to get an item pool to develop a comprehensive measure to assess the impact of HPN in this population.

Methods

We conducted a series of qualitative semi-structured interviews. The interviews were analysed to identify categories of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) addressed by patients' statements. Patients were consecutively included in the study until an additional patient did not yield any new information.

Results

We extracted 94 different ICF-categories from 16 interviews representing patient-relevant aspects of functioning and health (32 categories from the ICF component 'Body Functions', 10 from 'Body Structures', 32 from 'Activities & Participation', 18 from 'Environmental Factors'). About 8% of the concepts derived from the interviews could not be linked to specific ICF categories because they were either too general, disease-specific or pertained to 'Personal Factors'. Patients referred to 22 different aspects of functioning improving due to HPN; mainly activities of daily living, mobility, sleep and emotional functions.

Conclusions

The ICF proved to be a satisfactory framework to standardize the response of patients with cancer on HPN. For most aspects reported by the patients, a matching concept and ICF category could be found. The development of categories of the component 'Personal Factors' should be promoted to close the existing gap when analyzing interviews using the ICF. The identification and standardization of concepts derived from individual interviews was the first step towards creating new measures based on patients' preferences and experiences which both catch the most relevant aspects of functioning and are sensitive enough to monitor change associated to an intervention such as HPN in a vulnerable population with cancer.
Advanced moderately differentiated neuroendocrine carcinoma of the rectum with favorable prognosis by postoperative chemoradiation
Authors: Nojima Hiroyuki , Seike Kazuhiro , Kosugi Chihiro , Shida Takashi , Koda Keiji , Oda Kenji , Kamata Shigeyuki , Ishikura Hiroshi , Miyazaki Masaru
Published: April 2010

Rectal neuroendocrine carcinoma is rare with poor prognosis. We report herein a case of advanced moderately differentiated neuroendocrine carcinoma of the rectum with relatively favorable prognosis treated by postoperative adjuvant chemoradiation therapy. A 58-year-old Japanese female was referred and colonofiberscopy revealed an easy-bleeding irregular tumor in the lower rectum, which was pathologically diagnosed as a neuroendocrine carcinoma. Surgical treatment consisted of abdominoperineal resection and lymph node dissection. The tumor invaded deeply into perirectal tissues, and 9 of 11 lymph node metastases were observed. Immunohistochemically, chromogranin A showed diffuse and strong staining, and the MIB-1 labeling index was 18.3 ± 5.6, supporting the high proliferation of the tumor. Some nucleus of the tumor showed positive staining for p21/WAF1. A total dose of 46 Gy of radiotherapy was delivered with 800 mg of daily oral doxifluridine. At 5 years post-surgery, the patient demonstrated no clinical evidence of intrapelvic recurrence or distant metastases.
Postmastectomy locoregional recurrence and recurrence-free survival in breast cancer patients
Authors: Kheradmand Ali Arab , Ranjbarnovin Neda , Khazaeipour Zahra
Published: April 2010

Background

One essential outcome after breast cancer treatment is recurrence of the disease. Treatment decision is based on assessment of prognostic factors of breast cancer recurrence. This study was to investigate the prognostic factors for postmastectomy locoregional recurrence (LRR) and survival in those patients.

Methods

114 patients undergoing mastectomy and adjuvant radiotherapy in Cancer Institute of Tehran University of Medical Sciences were retrospectively reviewed between 1996 and 2008. All cases were followed up after initial treatment of patients with breast cancer via regular visit (annually) for discovering the LRR. Cumulative recurrence free survival (RFS) was determined using the Kaplan-Meier method, with univariate comparisons between groups through the log-rank test. The Cox proportional hazards model was used for multivariate analysis.

Result

The median follow up time was 84 months (range 2-140). Twenty-three (20.2%) patients developed LRR. Cumulative RFS rate at 2.5 years and 5 years were 86% (95%CI, 81-91) and 82.5% (95%CI, 77-87) respectively. Mean RFS was 116.50 ± 4.43 months (range, 107.82 - 125.12 months, 95%CI). At univariate and multivariate analysis, factors had not any influence on the LRR.

Conclusion

Despite use of adjuvant therapies during the study, we found a LRR rate after mastectomy of 20.2%. Therefore, for patients with LRR without evidence of distant disease, aggressive multimodality therapy is warranted.
Case-control study of disease determinants for non-typhoidal Salmonella infections among Michigan children
Authors: Younus Muhammad , Wilkins Melinda J , Davies Herbert D , Rahbar Mohammad H , Funk Julie , Nguyen Chau , Siddiqi Azfar-E A , Cho Seongbeom , Saeed Mahdi
Published: April 2010

Background

Infections withSalmonellaserotypes continue to be a significant global public health problem. In addition to contaminated foods, several other sources contribute to infections withSalmonellaserotypes. We have assessed the role of socioeconomic factors, exposure to food, and environmental sources in the etiology of non-typhoidalSalmonellainfections in Michigan children.

Findings

A case-control study among Michigan children aged ≤ 10 years was conducted. A total of 123 cases of children with laboratory-confirmedSalmonellainfections and 139 control children, who had not experienced symptoms of gastrointestinal illness during the month prior to the interviews, were enrolled. The cases and controls were matched on age-category (<1 year, 2-<6 years and 6-10 years). Data on socioeconomic status, food intake, and environmental exposures, were collected on the queried case and control subjects. After adjusting for race and household-income the final regression multivariable model revealed thatSalmonellainfections were significantly associated with attendance of a daycare center (adjusted matched odds ratio = 5.00, 95% CI: 1.51 - 16.58), contact with cats (MOR = 2.53, 95% CI: 1.14 - 5.88), and contact with reptiles (MOR = 7.90, 95% CI: 1.52 - 41.01), during the 3 days prior to the onset of child's illness.

Conclusions

Study results suggest that exposure to environmental sources may play an important role in sporadic infections withSalmonellaserotypes in children. Additional efforts are needed to educate parents and caretakers about the risk ofSalmonellatransmission to children from these sources.
The role of calcium signaling in phagocytosis
Authors: Nunes Paula , Demaurex Nicolas
Published: April 2010

This review focuses on the sequence of cellular events leading to calcium signals critical for phagosome maturation.

Immune cells kill microbes by engulfing them in a membrane-enclosed compartment, the phagosome. Phagocytosis is initiated when foreign particles bind to receptors on the membrane of phagocytes. The best-studied phagocytic receptors, those for Igs (FcγR) and for complement proteins (CR), activate PLC and PLD, resulting in the intracellular production of the Ca2+-mobilizing second messengers InsP3 and S1P, respectively. The ensuing release of Ca2+ from the ER activates SOCE channels in the plasma and/or phagosomal membrane, leading to sustained or oscillatory elevations in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration. Cytosolic Ca2+ elevations are required for efficient ingestion of foreign particles by some, but not all, phagocytic receptors and stringently control the subsequent steps involved in the maturation of phagosomes. Ca2+ is required for the solubilization of the actin meshwork that surrounds nascent phagosomes, for the fusion of phagosomes with granules containing lytic enzymes, and for the assembly and activation of the superoxide-generating NADPH oxidase complex. Furthermore, Ca2+ entry only occurs at physiological voltages and therefore, requires the activity of proton channels that counteract the depolarizing action of the phagocytic oxidase. The molecules that mediate Ca2+ ion flux across the phagosomal membrane are still unknown but likely include the ubiquitous SOCE channels and possibly other types of Ca2+ channels such as LGCC and VGCC. Understanding the molecular basis of the Ca2+ signals that control phagocytosis might provide new, therapeutic tools against pathogens that subvert phagocytic killing.
The myeloid 7/4-antigen defines recently generated inflammatory macrophages and is synonymous with Ly-6B
Authors: Rosas Marcela , Thomas Benjamin , Stacey Martin , Gordon Siamon , Taylor Philip R
Published: April 2010

The murine Ly-6B (7/4) alloantigen is differentially expressed by macrophages during the resolution phase of the inflammatory response and is a marker of macrophage turn-over.

This study aimed to identify the inflammation-associated 7/4-antigen, which is highly expressed on neutrophils, inflammatory monocytes, some activated macrophages, as well as on bone marrow myeloid-restricted progenitors. The high expression on inflammatory cells is suggestive of a role in inflammation and makes the 7/4-antigen a potential target for the manipulation of inflammatory cells. Consistent with this, the 7/4-antibody mediates specific depletion of 7/4-expressing neutrophils and monocytes. We have identified the 7/4-antigen as a 25- to 30-kDa GPI-anchored glycoprotein synonymous with the Ly-6B.2 alloantigen. We characterized the expression of Ly-6B during the inflammatory reaction induced by zymosan. During the later stages of an experimental, acute, self-resolving inflammatory response, we found that Ly-6B is differentially expressed on macrophages. Ly-6B-expressing macrophages also express more MHCII, CIITA, CCR2, Ly-6C, and CD62L than the Ly-6B-negative macrophages, which in turn, express more of the resident tissue macrophage marker SIGN-R1 and higher CD11b and F4/80. Ly-6B-expressing macrophages incorporate more BrdU than their Ly-6B-negative contemporaries when fed during the resolution phase of the acute inflammatory response. Thus, Ly-6B expression on mature macrophages defines a subset of recently generated inflammatory macrophages that retain monocytic markers and is hence a surrogate marker of macrophage turnover in inflammatory lesions. The definition of the 7/4:Ly-6B antigen will allow further characterization and specific modulation of Ly-6B-expressing cells in vivo.
Functional heterogeneity and differential priming of circulating neutrophils in human experimental endotoxemia
Authors: Pillay Janesh , Ramakers Bart P , Kamp Vera M , Loi Adele Lo Tam , Lam Siu W , Hietbrink Falco , Leenen Luke P , Tool Anton T , Pickkers Peter , Koenderman Leo
Published: April 2010

Systemic inflammation results in release of refractory neutrophils which can cause susceptibility to infections and activates differentiated neutrophils, which can mediate tissue damage.

Neutrophils play an important role in host defense. However, deregulation of neutrophils contributes to tissue damage in severe systemic inflammation. In contrast to complications mediated by an overactive neutrophil compartment, severe systemic inflammation is a risk factor for development of immune suppression and as a result, infectious complications. The role of neutrophils in this clinical paradox is poorly understood, and in this study, we tested whether this paradox could be explained by distinct neutrophil subsets and their functionality. We studied the circulating neutrophil compartment immediately after induction of systemic inflammation by administering 2 ng/kg Escherichia coli LPS i.v. to healthy volunteers. Neutrophils were phenotyped by expression of membrane receptors visualized by flow cytometry, capacity to interact with fluorescently labeled microbes, and activation of the NADPH-oxidase by oxidation of Amplex Red and dihydrorhodamine. After induction of systemic inflammation, expression of membrane receptors on neutrophils, such as CXCR1 and -2 (IL-8Rs), C5aR, FcγRII, and TLR4, was decreased. Neutrophils were also refractory to fMLF-induced up-regulation of membrane receptors, and suppression of antimicrobial function was shown by decreased interaction with Staphylococcus epidermis. Simultaneously, activation of circulating neutrophils was demonstrated by a threefold increase in release of ROS. The paradoxical phenotype can be explained by the selective priming of the respiratory burst. In contrast, newly released, CD16dim banded neutrophils display decreased antimicrobial function. We conclude that systemic inflammation leads to a functionally heterogeneous neutrophil compartment, in which newly released refractory neutrophils can cause susceptibility to infections, and activated, differentiated neutrophils can mediate tissue damage.
Tethering of Ficolin-1 to cell surfaces through recognition of sialic acid by the fibrinogen-like domain
Authors: Honoré Christian , Rørvig Sara , Hummelshøj Tina , Skjoedt Mikkel-Ole , Borregaard Niels , Garred Peter
Published: April 2010

Molecular mechanism behind Ficolin-1 association with leukocytes.

Three Ficolins have been identified in humans: Ficolin-1 (M-Ficolin), Ficolin-2 (L-Ficolin), and Ficolin-3 (H-Ficolin). Ficolin-1 is the least-described of the Ficolins and is expressed by monocytes, granulocytes, and in the lungs. Ficolin-1 is found circulating at low concentrations in serum but is regarded primarily as a secretory molecule that exerts its function locally in inflamed tissues. Ficolin-1 has been reported on the surface of monocytes and granulocytes and was suggested originally to function as a phagocytic receptor. However, the molecule does not contain any obvious transmembrane domain, and no binding partners have been identified. To gain further insight in the physiological role of Ficolin-1, we sought to identify the molecular mechanism responsible for the membrane association of Ficolin-1 to monocytes and granulocytes. We demonstrate that expression of Ficolin-1 on the cell surface is restricted to monocytes and granulocytes. Ficolin-1 is tethered to the cell surface of these cells through its fibrinogen-like domain, and the ligand involved in the binding of Ficolin-1 is shown to be sialic acid. Moreover, rFicolin-1 bound activated but not resting T lymphocytes. Together, these results demonstrate a novel self-recognition mechanism of leukocytes mediated by the fibrinogen-like domain of Ficolin-1.
Gonadotrophin-independent precocious puberty in an eight-year-old boy due to ectopic human chorionic gonadotrophin from the central nervous system
Authors: Marshall G A , McMahon S K , Nicholls W , Pretorius C J , Ungerer J P J
Published: April 2010

We present the case of an eight-year-old boy with advanced isosexual precocity associated with an elevated serum total-beta human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) and markedly elevated serum total testosterone. Radiological investigation discovered a lesion in the left thalamus and no peripheral tumour. Serum:cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) HCG ratio was approximately 1:1, consistent with a central nervous system source of HCG, with thalamic germinoma strongly suspected. Consent was not obtained for biopsy of the lesion. The patient underwent multiagent chemotherapy with return of serum HCG to normal. We discuss mechanisms of HCG-mediated sexual precocity in both boys and girls and the importance of CSF HCG.
Postprandial bone turnover is independent of calories above 250 kcal
Authors: Elnenaei Manal O , Musto Rebecca , Alaghband-Zadeh Jamshid , Moniz Caje , Le Roux Carel W
Published: April 2010

Background

The mechanisms causing bone turnover after food intake have not yet been elucidated. Several gut hormones are secreted in the postprandial phase, proportional to meal calorie content, and possibly one or more of these could influence bone turnover. The aim of this study was to investigate bone turnover in proportion to graded-calorie and fixed calcium containing meals.

Methods

A group of healthy volunteers were given six meals with calories varying from 250 to 3000 kcal on different occasions. All the meals contained 500 mg of calcium. C-telopeptide type I collagen (CTX) was measured before and 180 min after each meal.

Results

All meals significantly reduced CTX between 35.8 ± 5.6% and 44.8 ± 3.8%. No significant difference in CTX was however apparent for the different calorie containing meals. Observed differences suggest a trend to greater CTX suppression with lower protein and higher fat content of meals.

Conclusion

Changes in CTX are not proportional to calorie contents when the meals contain 500 mg of calcium. Further studies should now determine whether patients with increased bone resorption would benefit from multiple small meals to slow down the rate of bone loss.
Placental development during early pregnancy in sheep: vascular growth and expression of angiogenic factors in maternal placenta
Authors: Grazul-Bilska Anna T , Borowicz Pawel P , Johnson Mary Lynn , Minten Megan A , Bilski Jerzy J , Wroblewski Robert , Redmer Dale A , Reynolds Lawrence P
Published: April 2010

Placental vascular development (angiogenesis) is critical for placental function and thus for normal embryonic/fetal growth and development. Specific environmental factors or use of assisted reproductive techniques may result in poor placental angiogenesis, which may contribute to embryonic losses and/or fetal growth retardation. Uterine tissues were collected on days 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, and 30 after mating and on day 10 after estrus (nonpregnant controls) to determine vascular development and expression of several factors involved in the regulation of angiogenesis in the endometrium. Compared with controls, several measurements of endometrial vascularity increased (P<0.001) including vascular labeling index (LI; proportion of proliferating cells), the tissue area occupied by capillaries, area per capillary (capillary size), total capillary circumference per unit of tissue area, and expression of factor VIII (marker of endothelial cells), but capillary number decreased (P<0.001). Compared with controls, mRNA for placental growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor receptors, angiopoietins (ANGPT) 1 and 2, ANGPT receptorTEK, endothelial nitric oxide synthase, and hypoxia-inducible factor 1α increased (P<0.05) during early pregnancy. Vascular LI was positively correlated (P<0.05) with several measurements of vascularity and with mRNA expression of angiogenic factors. These data indicate that endometrial angiogenesis, manifested by increased vascularity and increased expression of several factors involved in the regulation of angiogenesis, is initiated very early in pregnancy. This more complete description of early placental angiogenesis may provide the foundation for determining whether placental vascular development is altered in compromised pregnancies.
Temperature Variation in Energy Absorption System Functionalized by Nanomaterials
Authors: Qiao Yu , Sun Zhongyuan , Lu Weiyi , Han Aijie
Published: April 2010

The thermal effect on the nanofluidic behaviors in a nanoporous silica gel is investigated experimentally. When a nanoporous silica gel is modified by silyl groups, its surface becomes hydrophobic. A sufficiently high external pressure must be applied to overcome the capillary effect; otherwise liquid infiltration could not occur. The formation and the disappearance of a solid–liquid interface are employed for energy storage or dissipation. When the hydrophobic surface of nanoporous silica gel is decomposed at various temperatures, the organic surface layers can be deactivated. As a result, the degree of hydrophobicity, which can be measured by the liquid infiltration pressure, is lowered. The infiltration and defiltration behaviors of liquid are dependent on the controlled by the decomposition-treatment temperature.
Fabrication of Permalloy Particles by Pulsed Laser Ablation in Water and Tween 80 Aqueous Solution
Authors: Yan Zijie , Bao Ruqiang , Dinu Cerasela Z , Chrisey Douglas B
Published: April 2010

Permalloy particles were fabricated by pulsed excimer laser ablation in distilled water and Tween 80 aqueous solution with the same laser parameters. Nearly spherical particles and irregular and porous fragments were obtained in water due to rapid condensation and growth of the laser ablated clusters. The products obtained in Tween 80 aqueous solution contained well-shaped spheres but some were laser sintered together via laser-particle interactions. Holes or pits were observed on the surface of some particles, which we consider were caused by laser induced bubbles in the liquid. Our results demonstrate the rich environment ablation in liquids can be for novel particle formation.
Co-morbidades e mortalidade de pacientes com doença renal: atendimento terceirizado de nefrologia
Authors: Oliveira Fernanda Celedonio de , Alves Maria Dalva Santos , Bezerra Aline Pontes
Published: April 2010

OBJETIVOS: Identificar as causas de co-morbidades e mortalidade de pacientes com insuficiência renal aguda atendidos na Clínica SARA no ano de 2007; analisar as variáveis pessoais, as co-morbidades e os fatores de risco para mortalidade desses pacientes. MÉTODOS: Estudo descritivo, retrospectivo, quantitativo, abrangendo 232 portadores de insuficiência renal aguda (IRA), em terapia hemodialítica no ano de e, os dados foram coletados através dos prontuários desses pacientes. RESULTADOS: Do total de 232 pacientes, 140 (60,3%) pacientes eram do sexo masculino; houve predominância de pacientes com idade entre 61 a 80 anos (37%) e o atendimento, na maioria das vezes, foi em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva (66,4%). Dentre as causas de internamento, houve predominância das IRA (87,9%). CONCLUSÃO: Destacam-se, entre as co-morbidades, a insuficiência, infecção respiratória, a hipertensão arterial sistêmica e sepse. As principais causas de óbitos foram a insuficiência respiratória e a sepse.
Incidência de insuficiência renal aguda na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Neonatal de um hospital paulista
Authors: Ferraz Renato Ribeiro Nogueira , Deus Rogério Barbosa de
Published: April 2010

OBJETIVOS: Verificar a incidência de insuficiência renal aguda (IRA) como motivo de admissão de pacientes na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Neonatal (UTIN) de um hospital paulista, e o uso da classificação de RIFLE na alocação destes pacientes. MÉTODOS: Levantamento de prontuários no período de 04 a 25/04/2008. RESULTADOS: Das 19 admissões de neonatos por diagnósticos diversos, 10% foram geradas por IRA (RIFLE), sendo os pacientes encaminhados à programas de diálise. CONCLUSÃO: Este levantamento realizado, com um número reduzido de indivíduos, demonstrou que a IRA representou 10% das causas de internação primária em UTIN. Maior tempo de observação seria importante para avaliar a progressão para IRA dos outros diagnósticos. Trabalhos com maior número de indivíduos e maior tempo de observação seriam importantes para se obter a real incidência desta complicação como causa de internação em UTIN.
Qualidade de Vida: comparação entre diálise peritoneal automatizada e hemodiálise
Authors: Arenas Valquiria Greco , Barros Luciene Fátima Neves Monteiro , Lemos Francine Barros , Martins Milton Arruda , David-Neto Elias
Published: April 2010

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a Qualidade de Vida relacionada à saúde em pacientes submetidos à Diálise Peritoneal Automatizada (DPA) e Hemodiálise em um centro de diálise satélite no Município de São Paulo. MÉTODOS: Este estudo observacional transversal, incluiu 101 pacientes com idade entre 18-75 anos, em terapia há mais de 90 dias e que compreenderam o questionário. RESULTADOS: O grupo em Hemodiálise (n=79) estava em terapia há mais tempo (p=0.001) e tinha albumina sérica maior (p<0.001) comparado ao grupo em DPA (n=22). Os escores do SF-36 foram semelhantes em várias dimensões, exceto pelo escore de Aspectos Físicos que foi maior nos pacientes em Hemodiálise (p=0.03). Não houveram interações significativas entre SF-36 e as demais variáveis que explicassem esta diferença. CONCLUSÃO: A Qualidade de Vida foi semelhante entre as modalidades, porém o escore de Aspectos Físicos foi menor para pacientes em Diálise Peritoneal Automatizada.
Metodologia para implantação de um sistema de gestão da qualidade em um centro de diálise
Authors: Lima Glauce Oliveira , Cruz Regina de Fátima de Almeida , Vale Sílvia Regina Moreira , Carneiro Érika Cristina Ribeiro de Lima
Published: April 2010

O estudo apresenta a metodologia utilizada para implantar um Sistema de Gestão da Qualidade em um Centro de Diálise em São Luís-MA. Houve aplicação de um questionário fundamentado na legislação vigente nos Serviços de Enfermagem, Médico, Farmácia, Nutrição, Estação de tratamento d'água, Almoxarifado, Higienização, Manutenção e Segurança do Trabalho, resultando em um diagnóstico situacional. A partir deste diagnóstico, foi geradoo um plano de ação para tratar as não-conformidades identificadas e propor iniciativas de ações preventivas seguindo as diretrizes constantes em documentos elaborados pelo Comitê da Qualidade. A experiência de implantar essa metodologia desenvolveu uma disciplina e organização no serviço que possibilitou a identificação e gerenciamento dos seus processos, planejamento e padronização de procedimentos, controle de documentos e registros, além incentivar a análise crítica dos resultados objetivando promover a melhoria de desempenho dos processos.
Pioneiros da ecologia política agrária contemporânea
Authors: Nascimento Humberto Miranda
Published: April 2010

O presente artigo tem por objetivo apresentar os pioneiros dos estudos materialistas sobre ecologia política agrária contemporânea. É feita uma análise das contribuições da Escola Russa de Estudos do Solo e de referências mais recentes aos escritos de Marx e Liebig. Nas considerações finais, enfatiza-se a necessidade de desenvolver a abordagem da Ecologia Política Agrária como maneira mais apropriada de entender a relação entre sistemas agrários, formações sociais e ecossistemas específicos em áreas rurais.
Safety of Beauveria bassiana (Bals.) Vuill. to Gallus domesticus L.
Authors: Haas-Costa Jucelaine , Alves Luis Francisco Angeli , Daros Alaxsandra Aparecida
Published: April 2010

Beauveria bassiana, an important insect pathogen was used to evaluate its effect on the feeding, behavior, histology of the digestory system and anatomy of Gallus domesticus. The fungus (strain Unioeste 4) was administrated orally treated with chicken food. Chicken feces were collected, and the birds observed for 28 days. Also, were evaluated the weight of the birds, as well as any sign of intoxication or pathological modification. Tissue samples were withdrawn to test lesions with the optic microscope. There was 100% of survival of the birds, and no behavior alteration or external lesion was found. The test group presented the highest weight gain (1383.9±54.4g). Viable conidia were observed in the feces until 24 h after feeding the fungus, indicating that there was no germination inside the digestory system. No tissue lesion was observed, providing overwhelming evidence for the safety of B. bassiana to non-target organism G. domesticus.
Nitrogen Dynamics at the Groundwater–Surface Water Interface of a Degraded Urban Stream
Authors: Mayer Paul M. , Groffman Peter M. , Striz Elise A. , Kaushal Sujay S.
Published: April 2010

Few studies have quantified the impact of urbanization on the biogeochemistry of streams at the groundwater–surface water interface, a zone that may be critical for managing nitrogen transformations. We investigated the groundwater ecosystem of Minebank Run, a geomorphically degraded urban stream near Baltimore, Maryland in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Our objectives were to identify the spatial and temporal extent of chemical, microbial, and hydrological factors known to influence denitrification, a microbial process that removes nitrate nitrogen (NO3−). Measurements of denitrification enzyme activity confirmed that subsurface sediments at Minebank Run, especially those with high concentrations of organic carbon, have the capacity to denitrify NO3−Levels of NO3−in groundwater were lower where more dissolved organic carbon (DOC) was available, suggesting that denitrification and removal of NO3−in groundwater were limited by DOC availability. Groundwater NO3−was highest when groundwater levels were highest, which, in turn, corresponded to high oxidation–reduction potential (ORP), indicative of high groundwater–surface water exchange. Stream flow patterns controlled stream bank and bed infiltration and, subsequently, dictated groundwater levels. Declines in water levels likely increased subsurface mixing, which led to low ORP conditions that sustained NO3−removal via denitrification. The groundwater–surface water interface is a zone of active nitrogen transformation. Management efforts that increase DOC availability to denitrifiers, reduce stream‐flow velocity and flashiness, and increase groundwater residence time will likely improve the nitrogen removal capacity of urban stream channels.
Disposal of Coal Combustion Residues in Terrestrial Systems: Contamination and Risk Management
Authors: Dellantonio Alex , Fitz Walter J. , Repmann Frank , Wenzel Walter W.
Published: April 2010

The world's ever‐growing energy demand will lead to the installation of new coal‐fired power plants. At least part of the coal combustion residue (CCR) generated in the coming years will be disposed of, adding to the large number of CCR disposal sites generated in the past and reinforcing the need for sound assessment and management of associated risks. Physical and chemical composition of CCR varies considerably depending on the quality of the feed coal, the combustion technology, fraction considered, and the method of disposal. Related risk pathways include (i) aerial routes, i.e., dust resuspension (CrVI), emanation of radioactivity (Rn associated with U and Th series), and Hg volatilization threatening animal and human health; (ii) phytoaccumulation (B, Se, Mo, As) and plant toxicity (B) with subsequent effects on animals (e.g., Mo‐induced hypocuprosis, As and Se toxicity) and humans (e.g., selenosis; food chain); and (iii) effluent discharge and percolation to groundwater and rivers (suspended solids, unfavorable pH, high Se, B, Hg, and AsIII concentrations). Recent and projected changes of CCR composition due to emerging clean coal technologies require close monitoring as the concentration of volatile elements such as Hg and Se, solubility (Hg, Cd, Cu) and volatilization (Hg, NH3) of some pollutants are likely to increase because of higher retention in certain fractions of CCRs and concurrent changes in pH (e.g., by mineral carbonation) and NH3 content. These changes require additional research efforts to explore the implications for CCR quality, use, and management of risk associated with disposal sites.
Soil and Groundwater Nitrogen Response to Invasion by an Exotic Nitrogen‐Fixing Shrub
Authors: Goldstein Christine L. , Williard Karl W. J. , Schoonover Jon E. , Baer Sara G. , Groninger John W. , Snyder Jennie M.
Published: April 2010

Autumn‐olive (Elaeagnus umbellataThunb.) is an invasive, exotic shrub that has become naturalized in the eastern United States and can fix nitrogen (N) via a symbiotic relationship with the actinomyceteFrankiaFixed N could potentially influence nutrient cycling rates and N leaching into soil water and groundwater. In situ net N mineralization, net nitrification, and net ammonification rates, as well as soil water and groundwater nitrate N (NO3–N) and ammonium N (NH4–N) concentrations, were measured under autumn‐olive–dominated and herbaceous open field areas in southern Illinois. Soil net N mineralization and net nitrification rates were higher under autumn‐olive compared with open field (p< 0.05) and could be driven, in part, by the relatively low C/N ratio (11.41 ± 0.29) of autumn‐olive foliage and subsequent litter. Autumn‐olive stands also had greater soil water NO3–N (p= 0.003), but soil water NH4–N concentrations were similar between autumn‐olive and open field. Groundwater NO3–N and NH4–N concentrations were similar beneath both types of vegetation. Groundwater NO3–N concentrations did not reflect patterns in soil N mineralization and soil water NO3–N most likely due to a weak hydrologic connection between soil water and groundwater. The increased N levels in soil and soil water indicate that abandoned agroecosystems invaded by autumn‐olive may be net sources of N to adjacent terrestrial and aquatic systems rather than net sinks.
Remote Sensing–Based Time‐Series Analysis of Cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum L.) Phenology
Authors: Clinton Nicholas E. , Potter Christopher , Crabtree Bob , Genovese Vanessa , Gross Peggy , Gong Peng
Published: April 2010

The western United States is under invasion from cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum L.), an annual grass that alters the pattern of phenology in the ecosystems it infests. This study was conducted to investigate methods for monitoring this invasion. As a result of its annual phenology, cheatgrass is not only an extremely competitive invader, it is also detectible from time series of remotely sensed data. Using the MODerate resolution imaging spectro‐radiometer (MODIS) normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and spatially interpolated precipitation data, we fit splines to monthly observations to generate time series of NDVI and precipitation from 2001 to 2005 in the state of Utah. We generated a variety of existing metrics of phenology and developed several metrics to describe the relationship between the NDVI and the precipitation time series. These metrics not only describe the pattern of response to precipitation in ecosystems of various infestation levels, but they are predictive of cheatgrass infestation. We tested several popular data mining algorithms to investigate the predictive ability of the time series–based metrics. Our results show that presence–absence can be predicted with 90% accuracy, and four categorical levels of infestation can be predicted with 71% accuracy. The results show that time series–based metrics are effective in prediction of cheatgrass abundance levels, are more effective than metrics based only on NDVI, and provide more information that existing approaches to cheatgrass mapping using phenology. These results are important for designing strategies to monitor ecosystem health over long periods of time at a landscape scale.