bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lower antibody response to Porphyromonas gingivalis associated with immunoglobulin G Fcγ receptor IIB polymorphism
Authors: Honma Y. , Sugita N. , Kobayashi T. , Abiko Y. , Yoshie H.
Published: August 2008

Background and Objective:  Human FcγRIIB is one of the receptors for immunoglobulin G (IgG) and suppresses the activation of B lymphocytes through cross‐linking with the B cell receptor via immune complexes. This function of FcγRIIB is essential for the negative regulation of antibody production. Our previous study has demonstrated the gene polymorphism FcγRIIB‐I232T to be associated with periodontitis. The polymorphism FcγRIIB‐232T has been reported to inhibit B‐cell antigen receptor signaling more effectively compared to FcγRIIB‐232I, while other groups concluded that FcγRIIB‐232T had no ability to inhibit activatory receptors. In this study, we examined whether FcγRIIB‐I232T polymorphism would change the IgG antibody response to the periodontopathic bacteria Porphyromonas gingivalis.

Material and Methods:  Forty‐seven patients with periodontitis were genotyped with the direct sequencing of genome DNA. Serum IgG and specific IgG subclass levels for the sonicate of P. gingivalis and the recombinant 40 kDa outer membrane protein (OMP) were determined.

Results:  No significant difference in the total IgG level and IgG response to P. gingivalis sonicate were observed between sera from FcγRIIB‐232T carriers and non‐carriers. The FcγRIIB‐232T carriers revealed a significantly lower IgG2 response to P. gingivalis 40 kDa OMP compared to non‐carriers (p = 0.04, Mann–Whitney U‐test). Lower responses of FcγRIIB‐232T carriers were also observed in specific IgG and IgG1 levels. The FcγRIIB‐232T carriers revealed a low level of IgG2 response to P. gingivalis 40 kDa OMP, even with a high average probing pocket depth.

Conclusion:  These results suggest that association of the FcγRIIB‐232T allele with periodontitis might be related to the lower levels of antibody response to P. gingivalis.
The Gαi and Gαq proteins mediate the effects of melatonin on steroid/thyroid hormone receptor transcriptional activity and breast cancer cell proliferation
Authors: Lai Ling , Yuan Lin , Chen Qi , Dong Chunmin , Mao Lulu , Rowan Brian , Frasch Tripp , Hill Steven M.
Published: August 2008

Abstract:  Melatonin, via its MT1 receptor, but not the MT2 receptor, can modulate the transcriptional activity of various nuclear receptors – estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and retinoic acid receptor alpha (RARα), but not ERβ– in MCF‐7, T47D, and ZR‐75‐1 human breast cancer cell lines. The anti‐proliferative and nuclear receptor modulatory actions of melatonin are mediated via the MT1 G protein‐coupled receptor expressed in human breast cancer cells. However, the specific G proteins and associated pathways involved in the nuclear receptor transcriptional regulation by melatonin are not yet clear. Upon activation, the MT1 receptor specifically couples to the Gαi2, Gαi3, Gαq, and Gαll proteins, and via activation of Gαi2 proteins, melatonin suppresses forskolin‐induced 3′,5′‐cyclic adenosine monophosphate production, while melatonin activation of Gαq, is able to inhibit phospholipid hydrolysis and ATP’s induction of inositol triphosphate production in MCF‐7 breast cancer cells. Employing dominant‐negative and dominant‐positive) forms of these G proteins, we demonstrate that Gαi2 proteins mediate the suppression of estrogen‐induced ERα transcriptional activity by melatonin, while the Gq protein mediates the enhancement of retinoid‐induced RARα transcriptional activity by melatonin. However, the growth‐inhibitory actions of melatonin are mediated via both Gαi2 and Gαq proteins.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Interleukin 1 Receptor Antagonist Gene Polymorphisms Are Not Risk Factors for Recurrent Pregnancy Loss: Evaluation of Couples
Authors: Levrant Seth , Coulam Carolyn B. , Jeyendran Rajasingam S.
Published: August 2008

Problem  The interleukin‐1 system has been implicated in pregnancy outcome. Fetal carriage of interleukin‐1 receptor antagonist (IL‐1Ra) specific alleles has been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes including spontaneous abortion and pre‐term labor. This study was undertaken to compare the frequency of IL‐1RN*2 alleles among both male and female partners of couples experiencing recurrent pregnancy loss with that of fertile control couples.

Method of study  Buccal swabs were obtained from 42 couples experiencing recurrent pregnancy loss and from 20 fertile control couples. DNA was extracted from the buccal swabs and analyzed for the presence of IL‐1RN variable number tandem repeat.

Results  No significant differences were found when the frequency of IL‐1RN*2 polymorphisms were compared between fertile control couples and couples experiencing recurrent pregnancy loss. Similar results were also obtained when comparing women or men respectively from each group.

Conclusion  IL‐1RN*2 allele is not a risk factor for recurrent pregnancy loss.
Analytic expressions for the surface brightness profile of gamma-ray burst afterglow images
Authors: Granot Jonathan
Published: August 2008

The exact profile of a gamma-ray burst afterglow image on the plane of the sky can provide important constraints on the underlying physics. In particular, it can test whether the magnetic field in the emitting shocked external medium decreases significantly with the distance behind the shock front, or remains roughly constant. Moreover, it enables more accurate measurements of the afterglow image size and the expected scintillation properties. In this work, analytic expressions are derived for the afterglow image in power-law segments (PLSs) of the afterglow synchrotron spectrum in which the emission originates from a very thin layer just behind the shock, while simple semi-analytic expressions are derived for the remaining PLSs in which the emission arises from the bulk of the shocked fluid. In all cases, the expressions are for a general power-law external density profile, and are convenient to use in afterglow studies.
Characteristics of Salmonella Contamination of Broilers and Slaughterhouses in the Region of Constantine (Algeria)
Authors: Elgroud R. , Zerdoumi F. , Benazzouz M. , Bouzitouna‐Bentchouala C. , Granier S. A. , Frémy S. , Brisabois A. , Dufour B. , Millemann Y.
Published: August 2008

The present study provides the first data about the prevalence of Salmonella contamination of broilers and slaughterhouses in the region of Constantine, Algeria. The serotypes and anti‐microbial resistance phenotypes of the isolates were determined, and risk factors contributing to the contamination were evaluated. A total of 2490 samples, 1800 originating from 30 broiler farms and 690 from 15 slaughterhouses, were taken during two periods: March 2005–June 2006 and September 2006–March 2007. Salmonella contamination concerned 37% of the broiler farms and 53% of the slaughterhouses. Among the 55 isolates recovered, 10 different serotypes were identified. The most frequently recovered serotypes in both slaughterhouses and breeder farms were S. Hadar (36%, n = 20), S. Virchow (16%, n = 9), S. Infantis (10.9%, n = 6), S. Albany (11%, n = 6) and S. Carnac (7%, n = 4). Isolates belonging to S. Heidelberg (2%, n = 1) and S. Rissen (2%, n = 1) were found only in farms, while those belonging to S. Typhimurium (9%, n = 5), S. Enteritidis (4%, n = 2) and S. Montevideo (2%, n = 1) were recovered only from slaughterhouses. Thirty‐nine isolates (80%) were resistant to at least one anti‐microbial and 51% were multi‐resistant, i.e. resistant to two or more anti‐microbial molecules. About 58% (n = 32) were resistant to streptomycin, 36% (n = 20) to tetracyclines, 27% (n = 15) to nalidixic acid, 13% (n = 7) to ofloxacin and one isolate to enrofloxacin. Finally, seven distinct anti‐microbial resistance profiles were identified. In parallel, four risk factors were found to be significantly associated with Salmonella contamination. Together with the huge spread of Salmonella in the broiler production chain in Constantine, Algeria, these risk factors highlight the hazards of the broiler channels, particularly linked to poor technical and hygiene practices.
X-ray Diffraction and Computation Yield the Structure of Alkanethiols on Gold(111)
Authors: Cossaro A. , Mazzarello R. , Rousseau R. , Casalis L. , Verdini A. , Kohlmeyer A. , Floreano L. , Scandolo S. , Morgante A. , Klein M. L. , Scoles G.
Published: August 2008

The structure of self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) of long-chain alkyl sulfides on gold(111) has been resolved by density functional theory–based molecular dynamics simulations and grazing incidence x-ray diffraction for hexanethiol and methylthiol. The analysis of molecular dynamics trajectories and the relative energies of possible SAM structures suggest a competition between SAM ordering, driven by the lateral van der Waals interaction between alkyl chains, and disordering of interfacial Au atoms, driven by the sulfur-gold interaction. We found that the sulfur atoms of the molecules bind at two distinct surface sites, and that the first gold surface layer contains gold atom vacancies (which are partially redistributed over different sites) as well as gold adatoms that are laterally bound to two sulfur atoms.
Tumor Regression in Cancer Patients by Very Low Doses of a T Cell–Engaging Antibody
Authors: Bargou Ralf , Leo Eugen , Zugmaier Gerhard , Klinger Matthias , Goebeler Mariele , Knop Stefan , Noppeney Richard , Viardot Andreas , Hess Georg , Schuler Martin , Einsele Hermann , Brandl Christian , Wolf Andreas , Kirchinger Petra , Klappers Petra , Schmidt Margit , Riethmüller Gert , Reinhardt Carsten , Baeuerle Patrick A. , Kufer Peter
Published: August 2008

Previous attempts have shown the potential of T cells in immunotherapy of cancer. Here, we report on the clinical activity of a bispecific antibody construct called blinatumomab, which has the potential to engage all cytotoxic T cells in patients for lysis of cancer cells. Doses as low as 0.005 milligrams per square meter per day in non–Hodgkin's lymphoma patients led to an elimination of target cells in blood. Partial and complete tumor regressions were first observed at a dose level of 0.015 milligrams, and all seven patients treated at a dose level of 0.06 milligrams experienced a tumor regression. Blinatumomab also led to clearance of tumor cells from bone marrow and liver. T cell–engaging antibodies appear to have therapeutic potential for the treatment of malignant diseases.
Graphoepitaxy of Self-Assembled Block Copolymers on Two-Dimensional Periodic Patterned Templates
Authors: Bita Ion , Yang Joel K. W. , Jung Yeon Sik , Ross Caroline A. , Thomas Edwin L. , Berggren Karl K.
Published: August 2008

Self-assembling materials are the building blocks of bottom-up nanofabrication processes, but they need to be templated to impose long-range order and eliminate defects. In this work, the self-assembly of a thin film of a spherical-morphology block copolymer is templated using an array of nanoscale topographical elements that act as surrogates for the minority domains of the block copolymer. The orientation and periodicity of the resulting array of spherical microdomains are governed by the commensurability between the block copolymer period and the template period and is accurately described by a free-energy model. This method, which forms high-spatial-frequency arrays using a lower-spatial-frequency template, will be useful in nanolithography applications such as the formation of high-density microelectronic structures.
Small CRISPR RNAs Guide Antiviral Defense in Prokaryotes
Authors: Brouns Stan J. J. , Jore Matthijs M. , Lundgren Magnus , Westra Edze R. , Slijkhuis Rik J. H. , Snijders Ambrosius P. L. , Dickman Mark J. , Makarova Kira S. , Koonin Eugene V. , van der Oost John
Published: August 2008

Prokaryotes acquire virus resistance by integrating short fragments of viral nucleic acid into clusters of regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPRs). Here we show how virus-derived sequences contained in CRISPRs are used by CRISPR-associated (Cas) proteins from the host to mediate an antiviral response that counteracts infection. After transcription of the CRISPR, a complex of Cas proteins termed Cascade cleaves a CRISPR RNA precursor in each repeat and retains the cleavage products containing the virus-derived sequence. Assisted by the helicase Cas3, these mature CRISPR RNAs then serve as small guide RNAs that enable Cascade to interfere with virus proliferation. Our results demonstrate that the formation of mature guide RNAs by the CRISPR RNA endonuclease subunit of Cascade is a mechanistic requirement for antiviral defense.
Clinical and Immunologic Features of an Atypical IntracranialMycobacterium aviumComplex (MAC) Infection Compared with Those of Pulmonary MAC Infections
Authors: Sadek Mouhannad , Yue Feng Yun , Lee Erika Yue , Gyenes Gabor , Jones R. Brad , Hoffstein Victor , Munoz David G. , Fong Ignatius , Ostrowski Mario
Published: August 2008

Members of theMycobacterium aviumcomplex (MAC) may cause chronic pulmonary infections in otherwise healthy elderly persons but rarely invade parts of the body outside of the lungs in immunocompetent hosts. We present a case of an isolated intracranial MAC infection in an apparently immunocompetent individual and review previous reports. We studied the T-cell and monocyte responses in healthy volunteers, individuals with a pulmonary MAC infection, and one individual with an isolated intracranial MAC infection. Genomic DNA from the individual with the brain MAC infection was studied for gamma interferon (IFN-γ) receptor mutations. Individuals with localized pulmonary MAC infections showed increased activation of monocytes and enhanced monocyte and T-cell tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) production in response to lipopolysaccharide and MAC antigens but defects in T-cell IFN-γ secretion. The individual with an intracranial MAC infection showed a lack of monocyte activation and deficiencies in both monocyte and T-cell TNF-α production and monocyte interleukin-12 (IL-12) production but had preserved T-cell IFN-γ production. Mutations or deletions in the IFN-γ receptor were not detected in the individual with the intracranial MAC infection. Our data suggest that distinct immune defects characterize two different manifestations of MAC infection. A relative defect in IFN-γ production in response to MAC may predispose an individual to localized but partially controlled lung disease, whereas defects leading to reduced IL-12 and TNF-α production may allow the dissemination of MAC. Further studies delineating the potential role of TNF-α in limiting the spread of MAC outside the lung are warranted.
In Vitro Natamycin Susceptibility of Ocular Isolates ofFusariumandAspergillusSpecies: Comparison of Commercially Formulated Natamycin Eye Drops to Pharmaceutical-Grade Powder
Authors: Lalitha P. , Vijaykumar R. , Prajna N. V. , Fothergill A. W.
Published: August 2008

The Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute susceptibility method prohibits the use of pharmacy preparations, but obtaining pure powders is difficult. The activity of natamycin against isolates ofAspergillusandFusariumspecies isolated from keratitis was assessed by using both powder and pharmacy eye drop preparations. Eye drop preparations may be a viable option for testing natamycin activity.
Binding STAT2 by the Acidic Domain of Human Cytomegalovirus IE1 Promotes Viral Growth and Is Negatively Regulated by SUMO
Authors: Huh Yong Ho , Kim Young Eui , Kim Eui Tae , Park Jung Jin , Song Moon Jung , Zhu Hua , Hayward Gary S. , Ahn Jin-Hyun
Published: August 2008

The human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) 72-kDa immediate-early 1 (IE1) protein is thought to modulate cellular antiviral functions impacting on promyelocytic leukemia (PML) nuclear bodies and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) signaling. IE1 consists of four distinct regions: an amino-terminal region required for nuclear localization, a large central hydrophobic region responsible for PML targeting and transactivation activity, an acidic domain, and a carboxyl-terminal chromatin tethering domain. We found that the acidic domain of IE1 is required for binding to STAT2. A mutant HCMV encoding IE1(Δ421-475) with the acidic domain deleted was generated. In mutant virus-infected cells, IE1(Δ421-475) failed to bind to STAT2. The growth of mutant virus was only slightly delayed at a high multiplicity of infection (MOI) but was severely impaired at a low MOI with low-level accumulation of viral proteins. When cells were pretreated with beta interferon, the mutant virus showed an additional 1,000-fold reduction in viral growth, even at a high MOI, compared to the wild type. The inhibition of STAT2 loading on the target promoter upon infection was markedly reduced with mutant virus. Furthermore, sumoylation of IE1 at this acidic domain was found to abolish the activity of IE1 to bind to STAT2 and repress the interferon-stimulated genes. Our results provide genetic evidence that IE1 binding to STAT2 requires the 55-amino-acid acidic domain and promotes viral growth by interfering with interferon signaling and demonstrate that this viral activity is negatively regulated by a cellular sumoylation pathway.
NF-κB Signaling Differentially Regulates Influenza Virus RNA Synthesis
Authors: Kumar Naveen , Xin Zhong-tao , Liang Yuhong , Ly Hinh , Liang Yuying
Published: August 2008

The NF-κB signaling pathway has previously been shown to be required for efficient influenza A virus replication, although the molecular mechanism is not well understood. In this study, we identified a specific step of the influenza virus life cycle that is influenced by NF-κB signaling by using two known NF-κB inhibitors and a variety of influenza virus-specific assays. The results of time course experiments suggest that the NF-κB inhibitors Bay11-7082 and ammonium pyrrolidinedithiocarbamate inhibited an early postentry step of viral infection, but they did not appear to affect the nucleocytoplasmic trafficking of the viral ribonucleoprotein complex. Instead, we found that the levels of influenza virus genomic RNA (vRNA), but not the corresponding cRNA or mRNA, were specifically reduced by the inhibitors in virus-infected cells, indicating that NF-κB signaling is intimately involved in the vRNA synthesis. Furthermore, we showed that the NF-κB inhibitors specifically diminished influenza virus RNA transcription from the cRNA promoter but not from the vRNA promoter in a reporter assay, a result which is consistent with data obtained from virus-infected cells. The overexpression of the p65 NF-κB molecule could not only eliminate the inhibition but also activate influenza virus RNA transcription from the cRNA promoter. Finally, using p65-specific small interfering RNA, we have shown that p65 knockdown reduced the levels of influenza virus replication and vRNA synthesis. In summary, we have provided evidence showing, for the first time, that the NF-κB host signaling pathway can differentially regulate influenza virus RNA synthesis, which may also offer some new perspectives into understanding the host regulation of RNA synthesis by other RNA viruses.
Detecting Small Changes and Additional Peptides in the Canine Parvovirus Capsid Structure
Authors: Nelson Christian D. S. , Minkkinen Eveliina , Bergkvist Magnus , Hoelzer Karin , Fisher Mathew , Bothner Brian , Parrish Colin R.
Published: August 2008

Parvovirus capsids are assembled from multiple forms of a single protein and are quite stable structurally. However, in order to infect cells, conformational plasticity of the capsid is required and this likely involves the exposure of structures that are buried within the structural models. The presence of functional asymmetry in the otherwise icosahedral capsid has also been proposed. Here we examined the protein composition of canine parvovirus capsids and evaluated their structural variation and permeability by protease sensitivity, spectrofluorometry, and negative staining electron microscopy. Additional protein forms identified included an apparent smaller variant of the virus protein 1 (VP1) and a small proportion of a cleaved form of VP2. Only a small percentage of the proteins in intact capsids were cleaved by any of the proteases tested. The capsid susceptibility to proteolysis varied with temperature but new cleavages were not revealed. No global change in the capsid structure was observed by analysis of Trp fluorescence when capsids were heated between 40°C and 60°C. However, increased polarity of empty capsids was indicated by bis-ANS binding, something not seen for DNA-containing capsids. Removal of calcium with EGTA or exposure to pHs as low as 5.0 had little effect on the structure, but at pH 4.0 changes were revealed by proteinase K digestion. Exposure of viral DNA to the external environment started above 50°C. Some negative stains showed increased permeability of empty capsids at higher temperatures, but no effects were seen after EGTA treatment.
The Vaccinia Virus Gene I2L Encodes a Membrane Protein with an Essential Role in Virion Entry
Authors: Nichols R. Jeremy , Stanitsa Eleni , Unger Bethany , Traktman Paula
Published: August 2008

The previously unstudied vaccinia virus gene I2L is conserved in all orthopoxviruses. We show here that the 8-kDa I2 protein is expressed at late times of infection, is tightly associated with membranes, and is encapsidated in mature virions. We have generated a recombinant virus in which I2 expression is dependent upon the inclusion of tetracycline in the culture medium. In the absence of I2, the biochemical events of the viral life cycle progress normally, and virion morphogenesis culminates in the production of mature virions. However, these virions show an ∼400-fold reduction in specific infectivity due to an inability to enter target cells. Several proteins that have been previously identified as components of an essential entry/fusion complex are present at reduced levels in I2-deficient virions, although other membrane proteins, core proteins, and DNA are encapsidated at normal levels. A preliminary structure/function analysis of I2 has been performed using a transient complementation assay: the C-terminal hydrophobic domain is essential for protein stability, and several regions within the N-terminal hydrophilic domain are essential for biological competency. I2 is thus yet another component of the poxvirus virion that is essential for the complex process of entry into target cells.
Possible Role for Cellular Karyopherins in Regulating Polyomavirus and Papillomavirus Capsid Assembly
Authors: Bird Gregory , O'Donnell Malinda , Moroianu Junona , Garcea Robert L.
Published: August 2008

Polyomavirus and papillomavirus (papovavirus) capsids are composed of 72 capsomeres of their major capsid proteins, VP1 and L1, respectively. After translation in the cytoplasm, L1 and VP1 pentamerize into capsomeres and are then imported into the nucleus using the cellular α and β karyopherins. Virion assembly only occurs in the nucleus, and cellular mechanisms exist to prevent premature capsid assembly in the cytosol. We have identified the karyopherin family of nuclear import factors as possible “chaperones” in preventing the cytoplasmic assembly of papovavirus capsomeres. Recombinant murine polyomavirus (mPy) VP1 and human papillomavirus type 11 (HPV11) L1 capsomeres bound the karyopherin heterodimer α2β1 in vitro in a nuclear localization signal (NLS)-dependent manner. Because the amino acid sequence comprising the NLS of VP1 and L1 overlaps the previously identified DNA binding domain, we examined the relationship between karyopherin and DNA binding of both mPy VP1 and HPV11 L1. Capsomeres of L1, but not VP1, bound by karyopherin α2β1 or β1 alone were unable to bind DNA. VP1 and L1 capsomeres could bind both karyopherin α2 and DNA simultaneously. Both VP1 and L1 capsomeres bound by karyopherin α2β1 were unable to assemble into capsids, as shown by in vitro assembly reactions. These results support a role for karyopherins as chaperones in the in vivo regulation of viral capsid assembly.
Monomeric Linear RNA of
Citrus Exocortis Viroid
Resulting from Processing In Vivo Has 5′-Phosphomonoester and 3′-Hydroxyl Termini: Implications for the RNase and RNA Ligase Involved in Replication
Authors: Gas María-Eugenia , Molina-Serrano Diego , Hernández Carmen , Flores Ricardo , Daròs José-Antonio
Published: August 2008

Members of the family
Pospiviroidae
, like
Citrus exocortis viroid
(CEVd), replicate through an RNA-based asymmetric rolling-circle mechanism in which oligomeric plus-strand [(+)] RNA intermediates are cleaved to monomeric linear (
ml
) RNA and then circularized. Here we show, by rapid amplification of 5′ and 3′ cDNA ends and in vitro ligation assays, that
ml
CEVd (+) RNA resulting from cleavage of a dimeric transcript transgenically expressed in
Arabidopsis thaliana
contains 5′-phosphomonoester and 3′-hydroxyl termini. The nature of these termini and the double-stranded structure previously proposed as the substrate for cleavage in vivo suggest that a type III RNase catalyzes cleavage and an RNA ligase distinct from tRNA ligase promotes circularization.
AN ANALYSIS OF CAUSES AND TREATMENT OUTCOME OF CHRONIC WRIST PAIN AFTER DISTAL RADIAL FRACTURES
Authors: Cheng H. S. , Hung L. K. , Ho P. C. , Wong J.
Published: August 2008

Healed distal radial fractures are frequently complicated by chronic wrist pain which is multifactorial and can be debilitating. An accurate delineation of the pathoanatomy is the key for successful treatment. This study reviewed 22 patients who had surgical treatment between 1997 and 2001 for chronic wrist pain after distal radial fracture. Four patterns of pathoanatomy were identified: (1) ulnar impaction caused by radial malunion and shortening; (2) ulnar styloid non-union; (3) triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) tears with or without distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) instability; and (4) intercarpal ligament injuries and chondral lesions. Surgical treatment directed towards identified abnormalities gave satisfactory outcome. At six months after surgery the mean functional score improved 36%, mean pain score decreased 50%, mean grip strength improved 25%, and 64% of patients returned to work.
CLINICAL RESULTS OF EARLY ACTIVE MOBILISATION AFTER FLEXOR TENDON REPAIR
Authors: Yen C. H. , Chan W. L. , Wong J. W. C. , Mak K. H.
Published: August 2008

Between 2005 and 2006, ten patients with flexor digitorum profundus zone II injuries were included. The mean age was 41 (19–84) years. One thumb, two index, four middle, one ring and two little fingers were injured. Repair method comprised four-strand core suture and 6-0 circumferential sutures. Post-operative rehabilitation included immediate active extension, progressive passive full flexion and active hold in dorsal block splint. Follow-up was four (three to seven) months. Grip strength, pinch strength, ROM was 90% (70%–90%), 90% (60%–110%) and 90% (80%–100%) of normal digit, respectively. Mayo wrist scores were five excellent, two good and three fair. All patients were satisfied. Compared with another group of ten patients with the same suture method and Kleinert splintage, grip strength, pinch strength and ROM were 50%, 40% and 40% of normal side, respectively. All differences between these two groups were statistically significant (p < 0.01) by paired samples T-test. There was no re-rupture.
REPAIR OF THE FLEXOR POLLICIS LONGUS TENDON IN INFANT
Authors: Zolotov Alexander S.
Published: August 2008

The author presents the case report of the rare for infant injury — the laceration of flexor pollicis longus tendon, which requires decisions on some complex questions relating to optimal tendon suture, suture material, type and duration of immobilisation, and the protocol for post-operative management.
RADIAL PERILUNATE TRANS-STYLOID TRANS-TRIQUETRUM FRACTURE DISLOCATION: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Suzuki Taku , Sato Kazuki , Nakamura Toshiyasu , Toyama Yoshiaki , Ikegami Hiroyasu
Published: August 2008

We present a rare case of radial perilunate trans-styloid fracture dislocation, in which the scaphoid invaginated radially into the fractured radial styloid.
MAINTAINING DATA DEPENDENCIES ACROSS BPEL PROCESS FRAGMENTS
Authors: KHALAF RANIA , KOPP OLIVER , LEYMANN FRANK
Published: August 2008

Continuous process improvement (CPI) may require a BPEL process to be split amongst different participants. In this paper, we enable splitting standard BPEL — without requiring any new middleware for the case of flat flows. The solution also supports splitting loops and scopes that have compensation and/or fault handlers. When splitting loops and scopes, we extend existing Web services standards and frameworks in a standard compliant manner in order to support the resulting split control (not data) between the fragments. Data dependencies, however, are handled directly using BPEL constructs placed in the fragments even for split loops and scopes.

We present a solution that uses a BPEL process, partition information, and results of data-flow analysis to produce a BPEL process for each participant. The collective behavior of these participant processes recreates the control and data flow of the non-split process. Previous work presented process splitting using a variant of BPEL where data flow is modeled explicitly using "data links". We reuse the control flow aspect from that work as well as the control flow aspect from our work on splitting loops and scopes, focusing in this paper on maintaining the data dependencies in standard BPEL.
EFFICIENT APPROACH FOR WEB SERVICES SELECTION WITH MULTI-QoS CONSTRAINTS
Authors: HUANG TAO , LI LEI , WEI JUN
Published: August 2008

With the increasing number of Web Services with similar or identical functionality, the non-functional properties of a Web Service will become more and more important. Hence, a choice needs to be made to determine which services are to participate in a given composite service. In general, multi-QoS constrained Web Services composition, with or without optimization, is a NP-complete problem on computational complexity that cannot be exactly solved in polynomial time. A lot of heuristics and approximation algorithms with polynomial- and pseudo-polynomial-time complexities have been designed to deal with this problem. However, these approaches suffer from excessive computational complexities that cannot be used for service composition in runtime. In this paper, we propose a efficient approach for multi-QoS constrained Web Services selection. Firstly, a user preference model was proposed to collect the user's preference. And then, a correlation model of candidate services are established in order to reduce the search space. Based on these two model, a heuristic algorithm is then proposed to find a feasible solution for multi-QoS constrained Web Services selection with high performance and high precision. The experimental results show that the proposed approach can achieve the expecting goal.
The First Fifty Years in Research
Authors: Ward Peter A.
Published: August 2008

It has been an honor for me to write the prefatory article for Volume 4 of the Annual Review of Pathology: Mechanisms of Disease. I decided to describe the first 50 years of my career in research, which started with my entry into medical school. I have tried to outline the numerous scientific mentors who played such an important role in my development as an independent scientific investigator. In general, I have tried to avoid mention in the text of the many, many colleagues who carried out the scientific work, as I would inevitably fail to cite many of them. Rather, I have cited what I think are my most important publications, which identify many of these scientific colleagues. I am now engaged nearly full-time in research and look forward to the next period of research progress.
Mechanical loading by fluid shear is sufficient to alter the cytoskeletal composition of osteoblastic cells
Authors: Jackson Wesley M. , Jaasma Michael J. , Tang Raymond Y. , Keaveny Tony M.
Published: August 2008

Many structural modifications have been observed as a part of the cellular response to mechanical loading in a variety of cell types. Although changes in morphology and cytoskeletal rearrangement have been widely reported, few studies have investigated the change in cytoskeletal composition. Measuring how the amounts of specific structural proteins in the cytoskeleton change in response to mechanical loading will help to elucidate cellular mechanisms of functional adaptation to the applied forces. Therefore, the overall hypothesis of this study was that osteoblasts would respond to fluid shear stress by altering the amount of specific cross-linking proteins in the composition of the cytoskeleton. Mouse osteoblats cell line MC3T3-E1 and human fetal osteoblasts (hFOB) were exposed to 2 Pa of steady fluid shear for 2 h in a parallel plate flow chamber, and then the amount of actin, vimentin, α-actinin, filamin, and talin in the cytoskeleton was measured using Western blot analyses. After mechanical loading, there was no change in the amount of actin monomers in the cytoskeleton, but the cross-linking proteins α-actinin and filamin that cofractionated with the cytoskeleton increased by 29% ( P < 0.01) and 18% ( P < 0.02), respectively. Localization of the cross-linking proteins by fluorescent microscopy revealed that they were more widely distributed throughout the cell after exposure to fluid shear. The amount of vimentin in the cytoskeleton also increased by 15% ( P < 0.01). These results indicate that osteoblasts responded to mechanical loading by altering the cytoskeletal composition, which included an increase in specific proteins that would likely enhance the mechanical resistance of the cytoskeleton.
Sympathetic cholinergic nerve contributes to increased muscle blood flow at the onset of voluntary static exercise in conscious cats
Authors: Komine Hidehiko , Matsukawa Kanji , Tsuchimochi Hirotsugu , Nakamoto Tomoko , Murata Jun
Published: August 2008

We examined whether a sympathetic cholinergic mechanism contributed to increased blood flow of the exercising muscle at the onset of voluntary static exercise in conscious cats. After six cats were operantly conditioned to perform static bar press exercise with a forelimb while maintaining a sitting posture, a Transonic or pulsed Doppler flow probe was implanted on the brachial artery of the exercising forelimb, and catheters were inserted into the left carotid artery and jugular vein. After the baseline brachial blood flow and vascular conductance decreased and became stable in progress of postoperative recovery, the static exercise experiments were started. Brachial blood flow and vascular conductance began to increase simultaneously with the onset of exercise. Their initial increases reached 52 ± 8% and 40 ± 6% at 3 s from the exercise onset, respectively. Both a sympathetic ganglionic blocker (hexamethonium bromide) and atropine sulfate or methyl nitrate blunted the increase in brachial vascular conductance at the onset of static exercise, whereas an inhibitor of nitric oxide synthesis ( Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester) did not alter the increase in brachial vascular resistance. Brachial blood flow and vascular conductance increased during natural grooming behavior with the forelimb in which the flow probe was implanted, whereas they decreased during grooming with the opposite forelimb and during eating behavior. Thus it is likely that the sympathetic cholinergic mechanism is capable of evoking muscle vasodilatation at the onset of voluntary static exercise in conscious cats.
K+channel inhibition modulates the biochemical and morphological differentiation of human placental cytotrophoblast cells in vitro
Authors: Williams J. L. R. , Fyfe G. K. , Sibley C. P. , Baker P. N. , Greenwood S. L.
Published: August 2008

Maintaining placental syncytiotrophoblast, a specialized multinucleated transport epithelium, is essential for normal human pregnancy. Syncytiotrophoblast continuously renews through differentiation and fusion of cytotrophoblast cells, under paracrine control by syncytiotrophoblast production of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). We hypothesized that K+channels participate in trophoblast syncytialization and hCG secretion in vitro. Two models of normal-term placenta were used: 1) isolated cytotrophoblast cells and 2) villous tissue in explant culture. Cells and explants were treated with K+channel modulators from 18 h, and day 3, onward, respectively. Culture medium was analyzed for hCG, to assess secretion, as well as for lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), to indicate cell/tissue integrity. hCG was also measured in cytotrophoblast cell lysates, indicating cellular production. Syncytialization of cytotrophoblast cells was assessed by immunofluorescent staining of desmosomes and nuclei. Over 18–66 h, mononucleate cells fused to form multinucleated syncytia, accompanied by a 28-fold rise in hCG secretion. 1 mM Ba2+stimulated cytotrophoblast cell hCG secretion at 66 h compared with control, whereas 5 mM tetraethylammonium (TEA) inhibited hCG secretion by >90%. 0.1–1 mM 4-aminopyridine (4-AP) reduced cytotrophoblast cell hCG secretion and elevated cellular hCG; without altering cellular integrity or syncytialization. In villous explants, hCG secretion was not altered by 1 mM Ba2+but inhibited by 5 mM 4-AP and 5/10 mM TEA, without affecting LDH release. Anandamide, pinacidil, and cromakalim were without effect in either model. In conclusion, 4-AP- and TEA-sensitive K+channels (e.g., voltage-gated and Ca2+-activated) regulate trophoblast hCG secretion in culture. If these K+channels participate in hCG secretion in situ, they may regulate trophoblast turnover in health and disease.
Development of the ACTH and corticosterone response to acute hypoxia in the neonatal rat
Authors: Bruder Eric D. , Taylor Jennifer K. , Kamer Kimberli J. , Raff Hershel
Published: August 2008

Acute episodes of severe hypoxia are among the most common stressors in neonates. An understanding of the development of the physiological response to acute hypoxia will help improve clinical interventions. The present study measured ACTH and corticosterone responses to acute, severe hypoxia (8% inspired O2 for 4 h) in neonatal rats at postnatal days (PD) 2, 5, and 8. Expression of specific hypothalamic, anterior pituitary, and adrenocortical mRNAs was assessed by real-time PCR, and expression of specific proteins in isolated adrenal mitochondria from adrenal zona fascisulata/reticularis was assessed by immunoblot analyses. Oxygen saturation, heart rate, and body temperature were also measured. Exposure to 8% O2 for as little as 1 h elicited an increase in plasma corticosterone in all age groups studied, with PD2 pups showing the greatest response (∼3 times greater than PD8 pups). Interestingly, the ACTH response to hypoxia was absent in PD2 pups, while plasma ACTH nearly tripled in PD8 pups. Analysis of adrenal mRNA expression revealed a hypoxia-induced increase in Ldlr mRNA at PD2, while both Ldlr and Star mRNA were increased at PD8. Acute hypoxia decreased arterial O2 saturation (SPo2) to ∼80% and also decreased body temperature by 5–6°C. The hypoxic thermal response may contribute to the ACTH and corticosterone response to decreases in oxygen. The present data describe a developmentally regulated, differential corticosterone response to acute hypoxia, shifting from ACTH independence in early life (PD2) to ACTH dependence less than 1 wk later (PD8).
Effects of Strontium on the Permeation and Gating Phenotype of Calcium Channels in Hair Cells
Authors: Rodriguez-Contreras Adrian , Lv Ping , Zhu Jun , Kim Hyo Jeong , Yamoah Ebenezer N.
Published: August 2008

To minimize the effects of Ca2+ buffering and signaling, this study sought to examine single Ca2+ channel properties using Sr2+ ions, which substitute well for Ca2+ but bind weakly to intracellular Ca2+ buffers. Two single-channel fluctuations were distinguished by their sensitivity to dihydropyridine agonist (L-type) and insensitivity toward dihydropyridine antagonist (non-L-type). The L- and non-L-type single channels were observed with single-channel conductances of 16 and 19 pS at 70 mM Sr2+ and 11 and 13 pS at 5 mM Sr2+, respectively. We obtained KD estimates of 5.2 and 1.9 mM for Sr2+ for L- and non-L-type channels, respectively. At Ca2+ concentration of ∼2 mM, the single-channel conductances of Sr2+ for the L-type channel was ∼1.5 and 4.0 pS for the non-L-type channels. Thus the limits of single-channel microdomain at the membrane potential of a hair cell (e.g., −65 mV) for Sr2+ ranges from 800 to 2,000 ion/ms, assuming an ECa of 100 mV. The channels are ≥4-fold more sensitive at the physiological concentration ranges than at concentrations >10 mM. Additionally, the channels have the propensity to dwell in the closed state at high concentrations of Sr2+, which is reflected in the time constant of the first latency distributions. It is concluded that the concentration of the permeant ion modulates the gating of hair cell Ca2+ channels. Finally, the closed state/s that is/are altered by high concentrations of Sr2+ may represent divalent ion-dependent inactivation of the L-type channel.
Live Neuron Morphology Automatically Reconstructed From Multiphoton and Confocal Imaging Data
Authors: Losavio Bradley E. , Liang Yong , Santamaría-Pang Alberto , Kakadiaris Ioannis A. , Colbert Costa M. , Saggau Peter
Published: August 2008

We have developed a fully automated procedure for extracting dendritic morphology from multiple three-dimensional image stacks produced by laser scanning microscopy. By eliminating human intervention, we ensure that the results are objective, quickly generated, and accurate. The software suite accounts for typical experimental conditions by reducing background noise, removing pipette artifacts, and aligning multiple overlapping image stacks. The output morphology is appropriate for simulation in compartmental simulation environments. In this report, we validate the utility of this procedure by comparing its performance on live neurons and test specimens with other fully and semiautomated reconstruction tools.
Ionic Conductivity and Phase Transition Behaviour in 4AgI‐(1‐x)PbI2‐2xCuI System
Authors: Hassan Mohammed , Rafiuddin
Published: August 2008

Samples of general formula 4AgI‐(1‐x)PbI2‐2xCuI, x = 0–0.4, have been prepared and investigated by XRD, DSC, and temperature‐dependent conductivity studies. X‐ray diffractograms showed the presence of binary system consisting of AgI and PbI2 in the sample x = 0. Cu‐substituted samples showed very similar diffractograms to that of the pure compound which indicates that no effect for the substitution on the nature of the binary system. DSC curves showed the presence of phase transition whose temperature increased with Cu+ ratio in the system. Ionic conductivity measurements confirmed the occurrence of the phase transition and showed that the high temperature phase is superionic conducting, whose conductivity increases with the increasing Cu+ amount in the system.
The Human G147D-Protein Phosphatase 1 Inhibitor-1 Polymorphism Is Not Associated with Altered Clinical Characteristics in Heart Failure
Authors: Chen Guoli , Zhou Xiaoyang , Pathak Anand , Dorn Gerald W. , Kranias Evangelia G.
Published: August 2008

Objectives: A human protein phosphatase inhibitor-1 polymorphism, G147D (c.440G>A, p.147G>D), has been previously demonstrated to blunt the contractile responses of cardiomyocytes to β-adrenergic agonists. The present study sought to examine whether the G147D inhibitor-1 polymorphism may be associated with specific clinical characteristics of heart failure carriers. Methods: Clinical information of 963 heart failure patients was analyzed according to race, inhibitor-1 genotype, treatment with β-blockers and mortality patterns. Results: The G147D inhibitor-1 genetic variant was found almost exclusively in black subjects and its frequency was similar between normals and heart failure patients, indicating that it was not a primary risk factor for developing heart failure. Comparison of the major cardiac functional parameters and transplant-free survival patterns between carrier and noncarrier patients did not reveal any significant differences. Furthermore, echocardiographic evaluation showed similar outcomes of β-blocker treatment between G147D carriers and noncarriers. Conclusions: The present findings indicate that the human inhibitor-1 G147D polymorphism, found almost exclusively in blacks, may act as a modifier rather than risk factor in heart failure development.
Improved Metabolic Control Results in Better Myogenic Response of Retinal Arterioles in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus Type 1
Authors: Blum M. , Kloos C. , Günther S. , Hunger-Dathe W. , Müller U.A.
Published: August 2008

Aims: The retina is protected against high blood pressure by the myogenic constriction of arterioles (the Bayliss effect). Hyperglycemia impairs this retinal autoregulation by endothelial dysfunction. The purpose of this prospective pilot study was to test whether improved metabolic control results in a measurable effect on the myogenic response of human retinal arterioles to acute increases in blood pressure. Methods: The Bayliss effect was measured in 25 patients with diabetes mellitus by the Retinal Vessel Analyzer (RVA), both before and after participation in a treatment and teaching program for intensified insulin therapy with the goal of improved metabolic control. After 12 months, 17 subjects still fulfilled the inclusion criteria and underwent an identical measurement. The Wilcoxon test was used for statistical analysis. Results: During the first session, a rise in mean arterial pressure (MAP) of 20.2 ± 8.6 mm Hg was followed by an arterial vasoconstriction of –3.2 ± 2.9%. The educational program resulted in a significant drop in HbA1c levels (9.4 ± 1.9 vs. 6.9 ± 0.98%). Eight subjects did not meet the inclusion criteria after 12 months. Seventeen subjects were remeasured and a rise in blood pressure of 19.5 ± 9.9 mm Hg in the second session was associated with a significantly improved arterial vasoconstriction of –5.9 ± 2.7% (session I vs. session II, p = 0.006). Conclusion: The myogenic response of the arterial wall in human retinal arterioles was significantly improved by the therapeutic intervention.
The Effect of Wavelet and Discrete Cosine Transform Compression of Digital Radiographs on the Detection of Subtle Proximal Caries
Authors: Schulze R.K.W. , Richter A. , d’Hoedt B.
Published: August 2008

The study compared diagnostic performances of 2 different image compression methods: JPEG (discrete cosine transform; Joint Photographic Experts Group compression standard) versus JPEG2000 (discrete wavelet transform), both at a compression ratio of 12:1, from the original uncompressed TIFF radiograph with respect to the detection of non-cavitated carious lesions. Therefore, 100 approximal surfaces of 50 tooth pairs were evaluated on the radiographs by 10 experienced observers using a 5-point confidence scale. Observations were carried out on a standardized viewing monitor under subdued light conditions. The proportion of diseased surfaces was balanced to approximately 50% to avoid bias. True caries status was assessed by serial ground sectioning and microscopic evaluation. A non-parametric receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed non-significant differences between the 3 image modalities, as computed from the critical ratios z not exceeding ±2 (JPEG/JPEG2000, z = –0.0339; TIFF/JPEG2000, z = 0.251;TIFF/JPEG, z = 0.914). The mean area beneath the curve was highest for TIFF (0.604) followed by JPEG2000 (0.593) and JPEG (0.591). Both intra-rater and inter-rater agreement were significantly higher for TIFF (ĸintra = 0.52; ĸinter = 0.40) and JPEG2000 images (ĸintra = 0.49; ĸinter = 0.38) than for JPEG images (ĸintra = 0.33; ĸinter = 0.35). Our results indicate that image compression with typical compression algorithms at rates yielding storage sizes of around 50 kB is sufficient even for the challenging task of radiographic detection of non-cavitated carious approximal lesions.