bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A probabilistic indirect adaptive control for systems with input‐dependent noise
Authors: Herzallah Randa
Published: July 2010

A probabilistic indirect adaptive controller is proposed for the general nonlinear multivariate class of discrete time system. The proposed probabilistic framework incorporates input–dependent noise prediction parameters in the derivation of the optimal control law. Moreover, because noise can be nonstationary in practice, the proposed adaptive control algorithm provides an elegant method for estimating and tracking the noise. For illustration purposes, the developed method is applied to the affine class of nonlinear multivariate discrete time systems and the desired result is obtained: the optimal control law is determined by solving a cubic equation and the distribution of the tracking error is shown to be Gaussian with zero mean. The efficiency of the proposed scheme is demonstrated numerically through the simulation of an affine nonlinear system. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The use of multiple reference points in risky decision making
Authors: Koop Gregory J. , Johnson Joseph G.
Published: July 2010

Among psychologists and economists, prospect theory continues to be one of the most popular models of decision making. The theory's key property is reference dependence; specifically, how an individual's perception of loss or gain is dependent upon their starting point (i.e., the status quo). Although prospect theory is widely accepted, other authors have sought the inclusion of reference points besides the status quo. Initially these extensions focused on the importance of single reference points such as goals. More recently, authors have explained choice data by including multiple reference points within the value function. Multiple‐reference‐point theories generally assume that many choice situations possess an implicit or explicit goal, or point an individual will strive to obtain, and/or a minimum requirement (i.e., a “lower bound”) above which an individual will strive to stay. In two experiments, we present evidence that individuals can utilize the minimum requirement, status quo, and goal within a single risky decision task. Participants most often chose to maximize their chance of reaching reference points even when that decision was riskier, resulted in lower expected value, resulted in lower expected utility, or ran contrary to the predictions of prospect theory. Furthermore, salience and uncertainty moderated the use of goals and minimum requirements as reference points. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Insulin resistance at the crossroads of metabolic syndrome: Systemic analysis using microarrays
Authors: Kim Eunjung
Published: July 2010

Recently, it has been suggested that insulin resistance is a better predictor of metabolic syndrome than obesity. Numerous studies have been conducted to identify insulin resistance susceptibility genes in various model systems. This review focuses on recent findings in microarray analyses, which have indicated that (i) in the liver, genes involved in lipid synthesis and gluconeogenesis are increased in an animal model of insulin resistance that leads into liver steatosis and hyperglycemia; (ii) in adipose tissues, genes involved in fatty acid synthesis and adipogenesis are down‐regulated both in insulin‐resistant humans and in animals; and (iii) in muscle, overall gene expression, including genes involved in fatty acid oxidation and biosynthesis, is either decreased or unresponsive compared to that of insulin‐sensitive control human subjects or animals. Considering the multifaceted effects of insulin resistance in various tissues, aiming at multi‐targets rather than a single target will be a more promising strategy for the prevention or treatment of insulin resistance.
Melanocortin‐1 receptor‐targeting with radiolabeled cyclic α‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone analogs for melanoma imaging
Authors: Raposinho Paula D. , Correia João D. G. , Oliveira Maria Cristina , Santos Isabel
Published: July 2010

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer known for its high aggressiveness, early dissemination of metastases, and poor prognosis once metastasized. Thus, early diagnosis of melanoma is a key issue for increasing patient survival. The overexpression of melanocortin‐1 receptors (MC1R) in isolated melanoma cells and melanoma tissues led to the radiolabeling of several linear and cyclic MC analogs for melanoma imaging or therapy. Cyclization of α‐melanocyte stimulating hormone (α‐MSH) peptides has been successfully used to improve binding affinity and in vivo stability of peptides. Herein, we describe the different peptide cyclization strategies recently reported for radiolabeled α‐MSH analogs and discuss how such strategies affect MC1R binding affinity, pharmacokinetic profile, and MC1R‐melanoma imaging. This review also highlights how the nature of the radiometal and labeling approach influence those properties. Among the cyclized α‐MSH peptides reported, 99mTc/111In‐labeled metal‐cyclized and lactam bridge–cyclized peptides displayed the highest melanoma and lowest renal uptake values in B16/F1 melanoma‐bearing mice and became the most promising tools to be further explored as potential melanoma imaging probes. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 94: 820–829, 2010.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
The story of DNase II: A stifled death‐wish leads to self‐harm
Authors: Crow Yanick J.
Published: July 2010

DNase II is an endonuclease which plays a fundamental role in the degradation of DNA from both apoptotic cells, and nuclei extruded from red blood cells during erythropoiesis: important tasks, considering that everyday 108–109 cells undergo apoptosis, and 1011 red blood cells are produced in the adult human. The DNase II‐null mouse demonstrates embryonic lethality due to type I interferon‐mediated erythroid precursor cell death triggered by undegraded nucleic acids. However, the mechanisms leading to such cytotoxicity are poorly understood. A study in the current issue of the European Journal of Immunology investigates the role of the death ligand TRAIL in this process. Although TRAIL is shown to be dispensable for the interferon‐induced apoptosis of erythroid cells in DNAse II−/− embryos, the authors have developed a useful strategy for further exploring this question in future studies. Interestingly, earlier studies by the same group showed that crossing the DNase II‐null mouse with a mouse deficient for the type I interferon receptor can rescue the lethal anaemia observed in the DNase II‐null embryos, but only at the cost of developing autoimmunity.
A mediational model of self‐esteem and social problem‐solving in anorexia nervosa
Authors: Paterson Gillian , Power Kevin , Collin Paula , Greirson David , Yellowlees Alex , Park Katy
Published: July 2010

Objective

Poor problem‐solving and low self‐esteem are frequently cited as significant factors in the development and maintenance of anorexia nervosa. The current study examines the multi‐dimensional elements of these measures and postulates a model whereby self‐esteem mediates the relationship between social problems‐solving and anorexic pathology and considers the implications of this pathway.

Method

Fifty‐five inpatients with a diagnosis of anorexia nervosa and 50 non‐clinical controls completed three standardised multi‐dimensional questionnaires pertaining to social problem‐solving, self‐esteem and eating pathology.

Results

Significant differences were yielded between clinical and non‐clinical samples on all measures. Within the clinical group, elements of social problem‐solving most significant to anorexic pathology were positive problem orientation, negative problem orientation and avoidance. Components of self‐esteem most significant to anorexic pathology were eating, weight and shape concern but not eating restraint. The mediational model was upheld with social problem‐solving impacting on anorexic pathology through the existence of low self‐esteem.

Conclusion

Problem orientation, that is, the cognitive processes of social problem‐solving appear to be more significant than problem‐solving methods in individuals with anorexia nervosa. Negative perceptions of eating, weight and shape appear to impact on low self‐esteem but level of restriction does not. Finally, results indicate that self‐esteem is a significant factor in the development and execution of positive or negative social problem‐solving in individuals with anorexia nervosa by mediating the relationship between those two variables. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Diffusion tensor imaging discriminates between glioblastoma and cerebral metastases in vivo
Authors: Byrnes Tiernan J. D. , Barrick Thomas R. , Bell B. Anthony , Clark Chris A.
Published: July 2010

In a prospective study, patients with a radiologically proven brain tumour underwent diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) prior to definitive diagnosis and treatment. Twenty‐eight patients with a histologically proven glioblastoma or metastasis were included in the study. Following the definition of regions of interest, DTI metrics [mean diffusivity (MD) and fractional anisotropy (FA)] were calculated for the tumour volume and the surrounding region of peritumoral oedema. These metrics were then subjected to logistic regression to investigate their ability to discriminate between glioblastomas and cerebral metastases. A cross‐validation was performed to investigate the ability of the model to predict tumour. The logistic regression analysis correctly distinguished glioblastoma in 15 of 16 cases (93.8%) and metastasis in 11 of 12 cases (91.7%). Cross‐validation resulted in the model correctly predicting 14 of 16 (87.5%) glioblastomas and 10 of 12 (83.3%) metastases studied. MD was significantly higher (p = 0.02) and FA was significantly lower (p = 0.04) within the oedema surrounding metastases than within the oedema around glioblastomas. MD was significantly higher (p = 0.02) within the tumour volume of the glioblastomas. Our results demonstrate that, when DTI metrics from the tumour volume and surrounding peritumoral oedema are studied in combination, glioblastoma can be reliably discriminated from cerebral metastases. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Protein–protein binding affinities by pulse proteolysis: Application to TEM‐1/BLIP protein complexes
Authors: Hanes Melinda S. , Ratcliff Kathleen , Marqusee Susan , Handel Tracy M.
Published: July 2010

Efficient methods for quantifying dissociation constants have become increasingly important for high‐throughput mutagenesis studies in the postgenomic era. However, experimentally determining binding affinity is often laborious, requires large amounts of purified protein, and utilizes specialized equipment. Recently, pulse proteolysis has been shown to be a robust and simple method to determine the dissociation constants for a protein–ligand pair based on the increase in thermodynamic stability upon ligand binding. Here, we extend this technique to determine binding affinities for a protein–protein complex involving the β‐lactamase TEM‐1 and various β‐lactamase inhibitor protein (BLIP) mutants. Interaction with BLIP results in an increase in the denaturation curve midpoint, Cm, of TEM‐1, which correlates with the rank order of binding affinities for several BLIP mutants. Hence, pulse proteolysis is a simple, effective method to assay for mutations that modulate binding affinity in protein–protein complexes. From a small set (n = 4) of TEM‐1/BLIP mutant complexes, a linear relationship between energy of stabilization (dissociation constant) and ΔCm was observed. From this “calibration curve,” accurate dissociation constants for two additional BLIP mutants were calculated directly from proteolysis‐derived ΔCm values. Therefore, in addition to qualitative information, armed with knowledge of the dissociation constants from the WT protein and a limited number of mutants, accurate quantitation of binding affinities can be determined for additional mutants from pulse proteolysis. Minimal sample requirements and the suitability of impure protein preparations are important advantages that make pulse proteolysis a powerful tool for high‐throughput mutagenesis binding studies.
N‐terminal domain of the V‐ATPase a2‐subunit displays integral membrane protein properties
Authors: Merkulova Maria , McKee Mary , Dip Phat Vinh , Grüber Gerhard , Marshansky Vladimir
Published: July 2010

V‐ATPase is a multisubunit membrane complex that functions as nanomotor coupling ATP hydrolysis with proton translocation across biological membranes. Recently, we uncovered details of the mechanism of interaction between the N‐terminal tail of the V‐ATPase a2‐subunit isoform (a2N1–402) and ARNO, a GTP/GDP exchange factor for Arf‐family small GTPases. Here, we describe the development of two methods for preparation of the a2N1–402 recombinant protein in milligram quantities sufficient for further biochemical, biophysical, and structural studies. We found two alternative amphiphilic chemicals that were required for protein stability and solubility during purification: (i) non‐detergent sulfobetaine NDSB‐256 and (ii) zwitterionic detergent FOS‐CHOLINE®12 (FC‐12). Moreover, the other factors including mild alkaline pH, the presence of reducing agents and the absence of salt were beneficial for stabilization and solubilization of the protein. A preparation of a2N1–402 in NDSB‐256 was successfully used in pull‐down and BIAcore™ protein–protein interaction experiments with ARNO, whereas the purity and quality of the second preparation in FC‐12 was validated by size‐exclusion chromatography and CD spectroscopy. Surprisingly, the detergent requirement for stabilization and solubilization of a2N1–402 and its cosedimentation with liposomes were different from peripheral domains of other transmembrane proteins. Thus, our data suggest that in contrast to current models, so called “cytosolic” tail of the a2‐subunit might actually be embedded into and/or closely associated with membrane phospholipids even in the absence of any obvious predicted transmembrane segments. We propose that a2N1–402 should be categorized as an integral monotopic domain of the a2‐subunit isoform of the V‐ATPase.
A filamentous phage display system for N‐linked glycoproteins
Authors: Çelik Eda , Fisher Adam C. , Guarino Cassandra , Mansell Thomas J. , DeLisa Matthew P.
Published: July 2010

We have developed a filamentous phage display system for the detection of asparagine‐linked glycoproteins in Escherichia coli that carry a plasmid encoding the protein glycosylation locus (pgl) from Campylobacter jejuni. In our assay, fusion of target glycoproteins to the minor phage coat protein g3p results in the display of glycans on phage. The glyco‐epitope displayed on phage is the product of biosynthetic enzymes encoded by the C. jejuni pgl pathway and minimally requires three essential factors: a pathway for oligosaccharide biosynthesis, a functional oligosaccharyltransferase, and an acceptor protein with a D/E‐X1‐N‐X2‐S/T motif. Glycosylated phages could be recovered by lectin chromatography with enrichment factors as high as 2 × 105 per round of panning and these enriched phages retained their infectivity after panning. Using this assay, we show that desired glyco‐phenotypes can be reliably selected by panning phage‐displayed glycoprotein libraries on lectins that are specific for the glycan. For instance, we used our phage selection to identify permissible residues in the −2 position of the bacterial consensus acceptor site sequence. Taken together, our results demonstrate that a genotype–phenotype link can be established between the phage‐associated glyco‐epitope and the phagemid‐encoded genes for any of the three essential components of the glycosylation process. Thus, we anticipate that our phage display system can be used to isolate interesting variants in any step of the glycosylation process, thereby making it an invaluable tool for genetic analysis of protein glycosylation and for glycoengineering in E. coli cells.
Cerebral folate deficiency
Authors: Hyland Keith , Shoffner John , Heales Simon J.
Published: July 2010

Cerebral folate deficiency (CFD) is defined as any neurological syndrome associated with a low cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) concentration of 5‐methyltetrahydrofolate (5MTHF) in the presence of normal peripheral folate status. CFD has a wide clinical presentation, with reported signs and symptoms generally beginning at around 4 months of age with irritability and sleep disturbances. These can be followed by psychomotor retardation, dyskinesia, cerebellar ataxia and spastic diplegia. Other signs may include deceleration of head growth, visual disturbances and sensorineural hearing loss. Identification of CFD is achieved by determining 5MTHF concentration in CSF. Once identified, CFD can in many cases be treated by administering oral folinic acid. Supplementation with folic acid is contraindicated and, if used, may exacerbate the CSF 5MTHF deficiency. Generation of autoantibodies against the folate receptor required to transport 5MTHF into CSF and mutations in the folate receptor 1 (FOLR1) gene have been reported to be causes of CFD. However, other mechanisms are probably also involved, as CFD has been reported in Aicardi‐Goutiere's and Rett syndromes and in mitochondriopathies. Several metabolic conditions and a number of widely used drugs can also lead to a decrease in the concentration of CSF 5MTHF, and these should be considered in the differential diagnosis if a low concentration of 5MTHF is found following CSF analysis.
Angiography suite concept for an interdisciplinary centre for cardiovascular interventions
Authors: Teichgräber Ulf K. M. , Wintzer Christian , Hamm Bernd
Published: July 2010

A permanently mounted angiography suite in an operating room (OR) is considered to be a hybrid OR. However, regular use for angiographic interventions is restricted with this setup. We introduce an alternative use of space for the efficient utilisation of an angiographic suite outside the surgical unit. This concept includes three scenarios that describe a modification of the catheter suite according to the specific clinical demands by adapting the workflow.
Experiences in Common: Slavery and “Freedom” in the Process of Rio de Janeiro’s Working-Class Formation (1850–1910)
Authors: Mattos Marcelo Badaró
Published: July 2010

The present article is based on research into the process of working-class formation in Rio de Janeiro in the period between the end of the nineteenth century and the early years of the twentieth. It explores the significant shared experiences of workers subjected to slavery and “free” workers in the process of working-class formation, and aims to demonstrate that the history of that process in Brazil began while slavery still existed, and that through shared work and life experience in Rio de Janeiro, as in other Brazilian cities where slavery was strong during the nineteenth century, enslaved and “free” workers shared forms of organization and struggle, founding common values and expectations that were to have a central importance in later periods of class formation.
Transnational Experts in Social Reform, 1840–1880
Authors: Leonards Chris , Randeraad Nico
Published: July 2010

Who were the people at the cutting edge of social reform in Europe between 1840 and 1880, and how were they connected? This article proposes a method to locate a transnational community of experts involved in social reform and focuses on the ways in which these experts shared and spread their knowledge across borders. After a discussion of the concepts of social reform, transnationalization, and transfer, we show how we built a database of visitors to social reform congresses in the period 1840–1880, and explain how we extracted a core group of experts from this database. This “congress elite” is the focus of the second part of this article, in which we discuss their travels, congress visits, publications, correspondence, and membership of learned and professional organizations. We argue that individual members of our elite, leaning on the prestige of their international contacts, shaped reform debates in their home countries. We conclude by calling for further research into the influence that the transnational elite were able to exert on concrete social reforms in different national frameworks in order to assess to what extent they can be regarded as an “epistemic community in the making”.
A Brave New World: The Left, Social Engineering, and Eugenics in Twentieth-Century Europe
Authors: Lucassen Leo
Published: July 2010

This article compares theories and social policies of social democrats and other representatives of the left-wing political spectrum in six European countries to explain why, in certain countries such as Sweden, Norway, and Switzerland, weak social groups became the target of illiberal and negative eugenic policy, especially isolation and sterilization, while elsewhere left-wing politicians and theorists were far less radical. One striking feature that emerges is the difference between acommunitarian-organicand aclass-boundform of socialism. Following Zygmunt Bauman, Michel Foucault, and James C. Scott, the article discerns a first variant of citizenship that is conditional and intended only for those with the right social attitude. Eugenics was perfectly consistent with such a view, since it offered a diagnosis and at the same time a cure. Prominent representatives of this approach were the Webbs in Britain and the Myrdals in Sweden. Such an organic-medical approach was less likely, however, in a more class-dependent variant of socialism embedded in a strong civil society. As long as social democrats and other leftist politicians believed social problems such as inequality and poverty were caused primarily by an unjust capitalist system, there was little cause for a eugenicist solution.
Systems parasitology: effects of Fasciola hepatica on the neurochemical profile in the rat brain
Authors: Saric Jasmina , Li Jia V , Utzinger Jürg , Wang Yulan , Keiser Jennifer , Dirnhofer Stephan , Beckonert Olaf , Sharabiani Mansour T A , Fonville Judith M , Nicholson Jeremy K , Holmes Elaine
Published: July 2010

We characterize the integrated response of a rat host to the liver fluke Fasciola hepatica using a combination of 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic profiles (liver, kidney, intestine, brain, spleen, plasma, urine, feces) and multiplex cytokine markers of systemic inflammation. Multivariate mathematical models were built to describe the main features of the infection at the systems level. In addition to the expected modulation of hepatic choline and energy metabolism, we found significant perturbations of the nucleotide balance in the brain, together with increased plasma IL‐13, suggesting a shift toward modulation of immune reactions to minimize inflammatory damage, which may favor the co‐existence of the parasite in the host. Subsequent analysis of brain extracts from other trematode infection models (i.e. Schistosoma mansoni, and Echinostoma caproni) did not elicit a change in neural nucleotide levels, indicating that the neural effects of F. hepatica infection are specific. We propose that the topographically extended response to invasion of the host as characterized by the modulated global metabolic phenotype is stratified across several bio‐organizational levels and reflects the direct manipulation of host–nucleotide balance.
τ Self‐Association: Stabilization with a Chemical Cross‐Linker and Modulation by Phosphorylation and Oxidation State
Authors: Guttmann Rodney P. , Erickson Anna C. , Johnson Gail V. W.
Published: July 2010

Abstract: τ is a major component of paired helical filaments found in the neurofibrillary tangles of Alzheimer's diseased brain. However, the mechanism or mechanisms responsible for the association of τ to form these aggregates remains unknown. In this study, the role of intermolecular disulfide bonds in the formation of higher order oligomers of bovine τ and the human recombinant τ isoform T3 was examined using the chemical cross‐linking agent disuccinimidylsuberate (DSS). In addition, the role of phosphorylation and oxidation state on the in vitro self‐association of τ was studied using this experimental model. Stabilization of τ‐τ interactions with DSS indicated that intermolecular disulfide bonds probably play a predominant role in dimer formation, but the formation of higher order oligomers of τ cannot be attributed to these bonds alone. τ‐τ interactions were significantly decreased either by blocking Cys residues or by exposing the τ to a reducing (nitrogen and dithiothreitol), instead of an oxidizing, environment. τ self‐association was also significantly decreased by prior phosphorylation with calcium/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II. Phosphorylation by cyclic AMP‐dependent protein kinase or dephosphorylation by alkaline phosphatase did not alter τ self‐assembly. These data suggest a role for several factors that may modulate τ self‐association in vivo.
Experiments and simulation on diffusion and activation of codoped with arsenic and phosphorous germanium
Authors: Tsouroutas P. , Tsoukalas D. , Bracht H.
Published: July 2010

We report arsenic and phosphorus diffusion experiments and activation related phenomena in codoped germanium substrates utilizing conventional thermal annealing. Chemical profiles were obtained by secondary ion mass spectroscopy, sheet resistance was estimated by the Van der Pauw method. Our study covers the temperature range from 600 to 750 °C. We accurately described the dopant profiles with a quadratic dependence of the dopants diffusion coefficient on the free electron concentration. In our simulations we considered the dopant pile-up near the surface and dopant loss owing to outdiffusion during the annealing. Although the double donor codoping technique exhibited no advantage over monodoping with P concerning the level of activation and junction depth, it was interesting to observe the different diffusion behavior of the two dopants. Whereas the diffusion of As indicates a retardation under codoping the diffusion of P remains either unaffected or is slightly enhanced by codoping. The activation level of the codoped samples remains lower compared to the respective monodoped samples, except for the highest annealing temperature.
Kinetic Monte Carlo simulations of anisotropic Si(100) etching: Modeling the chemical origins of characteristic etch morphologies
Authors: Gupta Ankush , Aldinger Brandon S. , Faggin Marc F. , Hines Melissa A.
Published: July 2010

An atomistic, chemically realistic, kinetic Monte Carlo simulator of anisotropic Si(100) etching was developed. Surface silicon atoms were classified on the basis of their local structure, and all atoms of each class were etched with the same rate. A wide variety of morphologies, including rough, striped, and hillocked, was observed. General reactivity trends were correlated with specific morphological features. The production of long rows of unstrained dihydride species, recently observed in NH4F (aq) etching of Si(100), could only be explained by the rapid etching of dihydrides that are adjacent to (strained) monohydrides—so-called “α-dihydrides.” Some etch kinetics promoted the formation of {111}-microfaceted pyramidal hillocks, similar in structure to those observed experimentally during Si(100) etching. Pyramid formation was intrinsic to the etch kinetics. In contrast with previously postulated mechanisms of pyramid formation, no masking agent (e.g., impurity, gas bubble) was required. Pyramid formation was explained in terms of the slow etch rate of the {111} sides, {110} edges, and the dihydride species that terminated the apex of the pyramid. As a result, slow etching of Si(111) surfaces was a necessary, but insufficient, criterion for microfacet formation on Si(100) surfaces.
Hydrostatic pressure decreases the proton mobility in the hydrated BaZr0.9Y0.1O3 proton conductor
Authors: Chen Qianli , Braun Artur , Ovalle Alejandro , Savaniu Cristian-Daniel , Graule Thomas , Bagdassarov Nikolai
Published: July 2010

Impedance spectroscopy on the hydrated proton conductor BaZr0.9Y0.1O3 at high temperatures shows that the bulk proton conductivity activation energy Eb scales with the strain parameter ε, as achieved by hydrostatic pressures up to 2 GPa, suggesting that large lattices favor proton diffusivity. At high temperature, Eb increases upon pressure by 40%. The grain boundary activation energy Eg is around twice as Eb, indicating higher proton mobility in grain boundaries as a result of pressure induced sintering. An expanded lattice with strain parameter ε>1 should have lower Eb, suggesting that thin films expansive tensile strain could have larger proton conductivity.
Plasmon-enhanced microalgal growth in miniphotobioreactors
Authors: Torkamani S. , Wani S. N. , Tang Y. J. , Sureshkumar R.
Published: July 2010

Photoactivity of green microalgae is nonmonotonic across the electromagnetic spectrum. Experiments on Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (green alga) and Cyanothece 51142 (green-blue alga) show that wavelength specific backscattering in the blue region of the spectrum from Ag nanoparticles, caused by localized surface plasmon resonance, can promote algal growth by more than 30%. The wavelength and light flux of the backscattered field can be controlled by varying the geometric features and/or concentration of the nanoparticles.
The Myosin Motor Domain of Fungal Chitin Synthase V Is Dispensable for Vesicle Motility but Required for Virulence of the Maize PathogenUstilago maydis
Authors: Treitschke Steffi , Doehlemann Gunther , Schuster Martin , Steinberg Gero
Published: July 2010

Class V chitin synthases are fungal virulence factors required for plant infection. They consist of a myosin motor domain fused to a membrane-spanning chitin synthase region that participates in fungal cell wall formation. The function of the motor domain is unknown, but it might deliver the myosin chitin synthase-attached vesicles to the growth region. Here, we analyze the importance of both domains in Mcs1, the chitin synthase V of the maize smut fungus Ustilago maydis. By quantitative analysis of disease symptoms, tissue colonization, and single-cell morphogenic parameters, we demonstrate that both domains are required for fungal virulence. Fungi carrying mutations in the chitin synthase domain are rapidly recognized and killed by the plant, whereas fungi carrying a deletion of the motor domain show alterations in cell wall composition but can invade host tissue and cause a moderate plant response. We also show that Mcs1-bound vesicles exhibit long-range movement for up to 20 μm at a velocity of ~1.75 μm/s. Apical Mcs1 localization depends on F-actin and the motor domain, whereas Mcs1 motility requires microtubules and persists when the Mcs1 motor domain is deleted. Our results suggest that the myosin motor domain of ChsV supports exocytosis but not long-range delivery of transport vesicles.
Treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus with epratuzumab
Authors: Traczewski Pawel , Rudnicka Lidia
Published: July 2010

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a prototypic autoimmune disease characterized by abnormalities in the activity of B‐cells and T‐cells. A novel specific treatment for autoimmune diseases is B‐cell depletion with monoclonal antibodies. Epratuzumab is a monoclonal antibody that targets CD22 antigen on B‐cells. Initial phase II and two terminated early phase III studies suggest that treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus with this immunomodulatory agent is effective, well tolerated and significantly improves the patient's quality of life. In vitro studies and clinical trials with non‐Hodgkin lymphoma patients indicate epratuzumab can potentially serve as a complementary drug in combination therapy with another inhibitor of B‐cell activity, rituximab, which is a monoclonal anti‐CD20 antibody.
Feeling Vulnerable? Indirect Risk Cues Differently Influence How Two Marsupials Respond to Novel Dingo Urine
Authors: Parsons Michael H. , Blumstein Daniel T.
Published: July 2010

In Tasmania, introduced predators are becoming more common. How Tasmanian prey respond to novel predator cues is of particular interest for their survival and management. Prey response to predator scents may depend on whether predator and prey share an evolutionary history and may be influenced by indirect risk cues such as perceived shelter or safety in the environment. To simultaneously explore the effects of indirect and direct risk cues (predator scent) on free‐living Tasmanian pademelons (Thylogale billardierii) and brush tail possums (Trichosurus vulpecula), we placed dingo (Canis lupus dingo) urine scents inside and outside a 25 ‐m2 selective feeding enclosure to mimic a heterogeneous risk landscape. Despite the lack of a historical relationship between dingoes and Tasmanian fauna, pademelons and possums demonstrated flight and vigilance when confronted with the novel scent outside the enclosure. According to our index of deterrence, number of successful entries/approaches, both species were deterred. However, responses inside the safe enclosure differed according to species. For instance, pademelons made more approaches/entries into the enclosure and fled more following approaches to scent marks both inside and outside the enclosure. In comparison, possums only exhibited similar responses outside the enclosure, and there was no effect of stimulus inside the safe compound. Our findings suggest that small animals may be pre‐adapted to avoid some predators they have not previously been in contact with, and that brush tail possums are more likely to respond to predation cues when exposed and vulnerable. Ultimately, the cumulative effects of direct and indirect risk cues may either increase or reduce a repellent response.
Proteomic approaches to oxidative protein modifications implicated in the mechanism of aging
Authors: Toda Tosifusa , Nakamura Megumi , Morisawa Hiraku , Hirota Mikako , Nishigaki Ryuichi , Yoshimi Yoji
Published: July 2010

Accumulation of oxidatively modified proteins is widely observed in aged animal tissues. Protein carbonyls are mostly derived from lysine, arginine, proline and threonine residues under oxidative conditions. Many groups have investigated carbonylated proteins since a convenient immunochemical procedure was established for detecting dinitrophenyl derivatives of carbonyls and applied to proteomic research. An alternative method of tagging with biotin or fluorescent dyes has been also introduced to proteomic analysis of protein carbonyls. Nitrotyrosine was primarily identified as a biomarker of cellular damage and inflammation under nitrosative stress. Nitrated proteins have been subsequently detected in aged animal tissues and Alzheimer's disease affected brains by Western blotting, and identified by mass spectrometry. Protein s‐thiolation, a mixed‐derivatization of cysteine (Cys) by conjugation of low‐molecular‐weight thiol compounds, is recognized as protecting functional proteins from more serious damage. A method of biotin labeling has been used in proteomics for tracing protein s‐thiolation. Among all kinds of amino acid residues, methionine (Met) is the most susceptible to reactive oxygen species, and Met oxidation seems to occur in ordinary cellular circumstances because most cells contain Met sulfoxide reductases, which might prevent serious cellular damage. In proteomic analysis, Met sulfoxide‐containing peptides are generally observed as 16‐Da‐high mass peaks in peptide mass fingerprinting. A modified procedure of two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis, in which proteins are kept under non‐oxidative conditions throughout the procedure, is appropriate for the estimation of the Met sulfoxide level of each protein in aged animal tissues and cells to evaluate the pathophysiological significance of Met oxidation in the mechanism of aging. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2010; 10 (Suppl. 1): S25–S31.
SUBCELLULAR DISTRIBUTION AND SOME PROPERTIES OF ACETYL‐COENZYME A HYDROLASE IN THE BRAIN
Authors: Matsuda T. , Yoshida H.
Published: July 2010

—The detailed subcellular distribution and some properties of acetyl‐CoA hydrolase were studied in the rat brain. The brain homogenate (S1) hydrolysed acetyl‐CoA at a rate of approx 2·3 nmol/min/mg of protein at 37°C. The total activity of acetyl‐CoA hydrolase was distributed in the following order: soluble > mitochondrial > microsomal, synaptosomal > myelin fraction. The order of the specific activity of the enzyme was: soluble, microsomal > mitochondrial > synaptosomal > myelin fraction. The synaptic vesicle fraction (D) had relatively high specific activity among the intraterminal particulate fractions, having two or three times higher specific activity than that of the synaptic cytoplasmic membrane fraction (F or G). Attempts to de‐occlude acetyl‐CoA hydrolase in the particulate fraction showed that only the enzyme activity in the myelin fraction was increased markedly by the treatment with ether or Triton X‐100. Lineweaver‐Burk plots gave straight lines for each subcellular fraction and apparent Km values for acetyl‐CoA were between 0·1 and 0·2 mM. Neither diisopropyl fluorophosphate nor physostigmine at the concentration of 0·1 mm inhibited the enzyme activity.
Evidence for Specific Polypeptide Chain Folding in Myelin Basic Protein from Reactions Between Fragments of the Protein and Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Alvord Ellsworth C. , Hruby Sarka , Martenson Russell E. , Deibler Gladys E. , Law Mona J.
Published: July 2010

Abstract: The specificities of two monoclonal IgM antibodies (18.25 and 21.14.2) evoked in mice with guinea pig myelin basic protein were examined and interpreted in terms of a specific folding of the protein's polypeptide chain. Studies with guinea pig and rabbit myelin basic protein fragments showed that a region encompassing the central Phe‐Phe (87–88) sequence is obligatory, but not sufficient, for reactivity with antibody 18.25. Appreciable reactivity was observed for rabbit peptides 22–95 and 45–151, and lower, but significant, reactivity was shown by peptide 32–95. Only very weak reactivity was seen with peptide 44–95. No reactivity was observed with peptide 1–95 after its lysine residues were acetylated, acetamidinated, orguanidinated. These results have been interpreted in terms of a polypeptide chain folding that creates an epitope within sequence Val‐Val‐His‐Phe‐Phe‐Lys‐Asn‐Ile‐Val (84–92). The specific conformation of this epitope, which includes probably the Lys‐89 and possibly the Asn‐90 and Val‐92 side chains, could be formed by the association of sequence 84–92 with either sequence Ile‐Leu‐Asp‐Ser‐Ile‐Gly‐Arg‐Phe‐Phe (37–45) or with sequence Val‐Leu‐Ser‐Arg‐Phe (108–112) to form p‐sheet structures essentially identical with those that appear to be present in the intact BP [Martenson R. E. J. Neurochem. 46, 1612–1622 (1986)]. The second monoclonal antibody, no. 21.14.2, reacts only with guinea pig myelin basic protein and fragments containing the species‐restricted sequence Arg‐Ala‐Asp‐Tyr‐Lys‐Ser‐Lys (129–135). The smallest available fragment that displayed full reactivity was peptide 22–164; peptides 45–167, 89–167, and 119–167, on the other hand, were only about one‐fourth as reactive as the intact protein. These results suggest that sequence 22–44 constitutes a region in peptide 22–164 and in the intact protein which stabilizes sequence 129–135 in the appropriate antibody‐binding conformation.
Human Retinas Synthesize and Release Acetylcholine
Authors: Hutchins James B. , Hollyfield Joe G.
Published: July 2010

Human retinas have the capacity to synthesize and release [3H]acetylcholine ([3H]ACh) after an incubation in [3H]choline ([3H]Ch). Synthesis of [3H]Ch by retinal homogenates was determined using either high‐voltage paper electrophoresis (HVPE) or a two‐step enzymatic/extraction assay for separating [3H]ACh from pH]Ch. The enzymatic/extraction assay is shown to be accurate over a wide range of concentrations (10‐6‐10‐12M). Homogenates of human retina synthesize [3H]ACh from [3H]Ch. We find an approximate Km of 50 μM and a Vmax of about 20 nmol/mg protein/h (at 37°C) for the synthesis of labeled ACh by retinal homogenates. Human retinas also release [3H]ACh after a pulse of [3H]Ch. Release of labeled transmitter is stimulated by potassium depolarization. The potassium‐stimulated release is partially blocked by magnesium or cobalt ions. Release data were analyzed by both the enzymatic/extraction assay and HVPE; the results are qualitatively identical in both cases. The data reported here provide additional evidence for cholinergic neurotransmission in the human retina.
Role of Thapsigargin‐Sensitive Intracellular Ca2+ Pools in Secretion Induced by Muscarinic Agonists in Porcine Adrenal Chromaffin Cells
Authors: Xu Yanping , Duarte Emilia P. , Forsberg Erik J.
Published: July 2010

Abstract: The role of inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate [Ins(1,4,5)P3]‐sensitive Ca2+ pools in secretion, induced by muscarinic agonists in porcine adrenal chromaffin cells, was studied. Activation of muscarinic receptors, as in other species, was found to increase inositol phosphate production including that of Ins(1,4,5)P3. Treatment of cells with thapsigargin, which is known to deplete Ins(1,4,5)P3‐sensitive Ca2+ pools, eliminated the initial transient component of increases in the cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]in) induced by the muscarinic agonist, methacholine, in both the presence and the absence of extracellular Ca2+. Thapsigargin treatment also decreased methacholine‐induced secretion by about 30% in the presence of extracellular Ca2+ and essentially eliminated secretion that occurred independently of extracellular Ca2+ (which was about 30% of the secretory response that occurred in the presence of extracellular Ca2+). Thapsigargin itself had no effect on inositol phosphate production. These results indicate that about 30% of muscarinic agonist‐induced secretion is mediated by the release of Ca2+ from Ins(1,4,5)P3‐ and thapsigargin‐sensitive intracellular Ca2+ pools. These results also suggest that Ca2+ influx activated by muscarinic agonists is not due to depletion of intracellular Ca2+ pools, as prior depletion of these pools had no effect on the portion of the methacholine‐induced secretory response and [Ca2+]in signal that was dependent on extracellular Ca2+.
Foetal Distribution and Metabolism of N‐Nitrosodiethylamine in Mice
Authors: Brittebo Eva B. , Lindgren Arne , Tjalve Hans
Published: July 2010

Abstract:In pregnant NMRI mice, low‐temperature autoradiography was used to study the distribution of N‐14C‐nitrosodiethylamine in foetal tissues, and autoradiography with heated tape‐sections was used to trace nonvolatile metabolites. Autoradiography with14C‐acetate was used to distinguish the part of the radioactivity which upon the degradation of N‐14C‐nitrosodiethylamine may be incorporated in the normal metabolism of the tissues. The results indicated that the non‐metabolized N‐nitrosodiethylamine passed to the foetuses with an even distribution in most foetal tissues on all the studied days of gestation (day 12, 14, 16 and 18). The autoradiographic results further indicated a metabolism of the substance in the mucosa of the foetal bronchial tree and in the foetal liver on day 18 of gestation, but not in earlier stages of pregnancy. This was substantiated by studiesin vitro, which showed a marked capacity of the 18 day old foetal lung and liver (in contrast to tissues from 16 day old foetuses) to form14CO2from the N‐14C‐nitrosodiethylamine. Since the lung and liver are target tissues for the transplacental carcinogenesis of N‐nitrosodiethylamine in NMRI mice, a causal relationship between metabolic ability and carcinogenesis may exist in these tissues.
High School Inspection by the University of Wisconsin, 1877–1931
Authors: Gough Robert J.
Published: July 2010

During the decades around the beginning of the twentieth century, public universities in the United States commonly employed a “certificate system” to establish eligibility for undergraduate admittance. “Certification” meant that between 1877 and 1931 representatives of the University of Wisconsin inspected high schools and had face-to-face interaction with pupils, teachers, and administrators. If they found a school's facilities, curriculum, and teaching to be satisfactory, graduates—with the endorsement of their principal—could enter the University as freshmen without further examination. This process of certification by inspection was part of a broader dialogue between Wisconsin high schools and the state university. The principal inspector during the 1920s, Thomas Lloyd-Jones, brought together strands of both administrative and pedagogical Progressivism, while insisting on the importance of academic subjects in the high school curriculum. By encouraging closer articulation between secondary schools and colleges, it was a central component of what educational historian Mark VanOverbeke has described as a more “stratified and standardized educational system” that developed in the United States between 1870 and 1910.
A methodological framework of preparing economic evidence for selection of medicines in the Chinese setting
Authors: Sun Xin , Faunce Thomas Alured
Published: July 2010

Medicines are becoming a major component of health expenditure in China. Selection of effective and cost‐effective medicines represents an important effort to improve medicines use. A guideline on cost‐effectiveness studies has been available in China. This guideline, however, fails to be a practical tool to prepare and critically appraise economic evidence. This article discusses, in the Chinese context, the approach to integrating economic component into the medicines selection, and elaborates the methods of producing economic evidence, including conducing economic reviews and primary economic studies.
The demography of space occupancy: measuring plant colonization and survival probabilities using repeated pin‐point measurements
Authors: Damgaard Christian , Merlin Amandine , Mesléard François , Bonis Anne
Published: July 2010

1. The study of plant demography has long been an important component of plant ecological studies. However, in plant communities, e.g. grasslands, where individual plants are not easily distinguished and often vary in size, a convenient method of describing the demography and its ecological consequences has been lacking.

2. The aim of this study was to discuss the potential for using the change in the probability of space occupancy as a measure of ecological success in plant population biology. This will be done by demonstrating how the change in the probability of space occupancy depends on the processes of colonization and survival, and demonstrating how colonization and survival probabilities may be estimated from repeated pin‐point recordings at the same pin‐position. Furthermore, it will be demonstrated how to calculate the sensitivity and elasticity of the change in the probability of space occupancy to colonization and survival probabilities.

3. The method is applied to a case of repeated pin‐point data of the perennial grassBrachypodium phoenicoïdesthat underwent different grazing regimes from 2001 to 2008 on xero‐halophytic grasslands.

4. It was demonstrated that grazing affected both plant survival and colonization probabilities so that the estimated colonization and survival probabilities ofB. phoenicoïdeswere highest in the non‐grazed regime. Furthermore, using the calculated elasticity of the change in space occupancy, we found that survival was more important than colonization events in determining the ecological success ofB. phoenicoïdesin the non‐grazed regime, whereas colonization events were more important than survival in the grazed regime.

5. Synthesis and applications. We expect that the relatively simple method may be widely used on existing and future repeated pin‐point recordings from the same pin‐position and, consequently, that plant demographic questions may be addressed with larger precision in plant communities where individual plants are not easily distinguished.