bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Career Advancement for Tourism and Hospitality Academics: Publish, Network, Study, and Plan
Authors: Weber Karin , Ladkin Adele
Published: August 2008

In recent years there has been considerable growth in the number of undergraduate and graduate tourism and hospitality programs at universities around the world. Consequently, the demand for qualified people to fill academic positions in the field is increasing. Despite much research on the demands and expectations of skills from the industry on tourism and hospitality graduates, little is known about who is teaching these graduates, their backgrounds, and strategies they employ to advance their careers. This article reports on the findings of an Internet survey of 342 tourism and hospitality academics from around the world on various aspects related to career development. The importance these academics place on select career strategies in general and for their personal career advancement is assessed, and differences in perception based on gender, seniority, and time of entry into academia are examined. Insights into academics'satisfaction with their career advancement and career barriers are also provided.
What Works in Policing?
Authors: McCabe James E.
Published: August 2008

This research reports the relationship between serious crime, drug arrests, and nuisance abatement seizures in New York between the years 1995 and 2001. Over the last decade, New York City experienced a dramatic decrease in crime. One of the more prominent explanations of this crime decrease is a variant of the “Broken Windows” theory posited by James Q. Wilson and George L. Kelling in 1982. This research tests this theory in that it uses drug arrests and nuisance abatement closings as a proxy for “broken windows” and FBI Part I Index crimes as a measure of serious crime. The results of the analyses showed that the rate of marijuana arrest and the closing of drug locations through nuisance abatement statutes are inversely related to the crime rate, and that the rate of controlled substance arrest is directly related to crime rate.
A Java-based tool for the design of classification microarrays
Authors: Meng Da , Broschat Shira L , Call Douglas R
Published: August 2008

Background

Classification microarrays are used for purposes such as identifying strains of bacteria and determining genetic relationships to understand the epidemiology of an infectious disease. For these cases, mixed microarrays, which are composed of DNA from more than one organism, are more effective than conventional microarrays composed of DNA from a single organism. Selection of probes is a key factor in designing successful mixed microarrays because redundant sequences are inefficient and limited representation of diversity can restrict application of the microarray. We have developed a Java-based software tool, called PLASMID, for use in selecting the minimum set of probe sequences needed to classify different groups of plasmids or bacteria.

Results

The software program was successfully applied to several different sets of data. The utility of PLASMID was illustrated using existing mixed-plasmid microarray data as well as data from a virtual mixed-genome microarray constructed from different strains of Streptococcus. Moreover, use of data from expression microarray experiments demonstrated the generality of PLASMID.

Conclusion

In this paper we describe a new software tool for selecting a set of probes for a classification microarray. While the tool was developed for the design of mixed microarrays–and mixed-plasmid microarrays in particular–it can also be used to design expression arrays. The user can choose from several clustering methods (including hierarchical, non-hierarchical, and a model-based genetic algorithm), several probe ranking methods, and several different display methods. A novel approach is used for probe redundancy reduction, and probe selection is accomplished via stepwise discriminant analysis. Data can be entered in different formats (including Excel and comma-delimited text), and dendrogram, heat map, and scatter plot images can be saved in several different formats (including jpeg and tiff). Weights generated using stepwise discriminant analysis can be stored for analysis of subsequent experimental data. Additionally, PLASMID can be used to construct virtual microarrays with genomes from public databases, which can then be used to identify an optimal set of probes.
Dynamic expression of Dab2 in the mouse embryonic central nervous system
Authors: Cheung Kwok-Kuen , Mok Samuel C , Rezaie Payam , Chan Wood Yee
Published: August 2008

Background

Dab2, one of two mammalian orthologs ofDrosophila Disabled, has been shown to be involved in cell positioning and formation of visceral endoderm during mouse embryogenesis, but its role in neuronal development is not yet fully understood. In this report, we have examined the localization of the Dab2 protein in the mouse embryonic central nervous system (CNS) at different developmental stages.

Results

Dab2 protein was transiently expressed in rhombomeres 5 and 6 of the developing hindbrain between E8.5 and E11.5, and in the floor plate of the neural tube from E9.5 to E12.5, following which it was no longer detectable within these regions. Dab2 protein was also identified within circumventricular organs including the choroid plexus, subcommissural organ and pineal gland during their early development. While Dab2 was still strongly expressed in the adult choroid plexus, immunoreactivity within the subcommissural organ and pineal gland was lost after birth. In addition, Dab2 was transiently expressed within a subpopulation of Iba1-positive mononuclear phagocytes (including presumed microglial progenitors) within the neural tube from E10.0 and was lost by E14.5. Dab2 was separately localized to Iba1 positive cells from E9.5 and subsequently to F4/80 positive cells (mature macrophage/myeloid-derived dendritic cells) positioned outside the neural tube from E12.5 onwards, implicating Dab2 expression in early cells of the mononuclear phagocyte lineage. Dab2 did not co-localize with the pan-neuronal marker PGP9.5 at any developmental stage, suggesting that Dab2 positive cells in the developing CNS are unlikely to be differentiating neurons.

Conclusion

This is the first study to demonstrate the dynamic spatiotemporal expression of Dab2 protein within the CNS during development.
Regional differences in HIV prevalence among drug users in China: potential for future spread of HIV?
Authors: Kretzschmar Mirjam , Zhang Weidong , Mikolajczyk Rafael T , Wang Lan , Sun Xinhua , Kraemer Alexander , Lv Fan
Published: August 2008

Background

Drug use and in particular injecting drug use has been at the forefront of the explosive spread of HIV in general populations in many countries in Asia. There is concern that also in China increased HIV incidence in drug users might spark off a generalized epidemic in the wider population. Close monitoring of HIV incidence and risk factors in drug users is therefore important to be able to target interventions effectively. Second generation surveillance was launched to assess HIV prevalence and risk behaviours jointly with the purpose of describing trends and predicting future developments. To assess whether these goals were fulfilled among drug users in China we provide an analysis of risk factors for HIV infection and of regional differences in HIV prevalence.

Methods

We analysed data collected in 2005 in 21 drug user second generation surveillance sentinel sites from 14 provinces in China. We used random effects logistic regression to test for risk factors for HIV infection and regional differences.

Results

The overall HIV-1 antibody prevalence was 5.4% (279/5128); 4.9% among injecting drug users (IDU) not sharing needles and 3.7% among non-injecting drug users. We found substantial heterogeneity among the surveillance sites with prevalence rates ranging between 0% and 54%. HIV status was strongly affected by the regional prevalence of HIV. Risk behaviours were highly prevalent in regions where HIV prevalence is still low. The distribution of duration of drug use in different sites indicated different stages of the drug use epidemics.

Conclusion

]Regional differences in HIV prevalence in China reflect different stages of the drug use and HIV epidemics rather than differences in risk behaviours. Therefore, outbreaks of HIV among drug users in regions where prevalence is still low can be expected in the future. However, methodological limitations of surveillance embedded into routine systems limit the usability of existing data. More standardized approaches to data collection in secondary generation HIV surveillance are necessary to better understand regional differences in risk behaviour and prevalence and to design targeted intervention for those regions at risk of experiencing outbreaks.
Melasma and its association with different types of nevi in women: A case-control study
Authors: Adalatkhah Hassan , Sadeghi-bazargani Homayoun , Amini-sani Nayereh , Zeynizadeh Somayeh
Published: August 2008

Background

Very little is known about possible association of nevi and melasma. The study objective was to determine if there is an association between melasma and existence of different kinds of nevi.

Methods

In a case-control study, 120 female melasma patients referred to dermatology clinic of Ardabil and 120 patients referred to other specialty clinics who lacked melasma were enrolled after matching for age. Number of different types of nevi including lentigines and melanocytic nevi were compared between case and control group patients. Data were entered into the computer and analyzed by SPSS 13 statistical software.

Results

Mean number of lentigines was 25.5 in melasma group compared to 8 in control group(P < 0.01). Mean number of melanocytic nevi was 13.2 in cases compared to 2.8 in control group(P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that existence of freckles, lentigines and more than three melanocytic nevi were positively related to developing melasma. The chance of melasma increased up to 23 times for patients having more than three melanocytic nevi. Congenital nevi were observed among 10% both in case and control groups. Campbell de morgan angiomas were seen among 26 patients(21.8%) in case group compared to 6 patients(5%) in control group.

Conclusion

Existence of lentigines and melanocytic nevi increases chance of having melasma
Level set segmentation of bovine corpora lutea in ex situ ovarian ultrasound images
Authors: Rusnell Brennan J , Pierson Roger A , Singh Jaswant , Adams Gregg P , Eramian Mark G
Published: August 2008

Background

The objective of this study was to investigate the viability of level set image segmentation methods for the detection of corpora lutea (corpus luteum, CL) boundaries in ultrasonographic ovarian images. It was hypothesized that bovine CL boundaries could be located within 1–2 mm by a level set image segmentation methodology.

Methods

Level set methods embed a 2D contour in a 3D surface and evolve that surface over time according to an image-dependent speed function. A speed function suitable for segmentation of CL's in ovarian ultrasound images was developed. An initial contour was manually placed and contour evolution was allowed to proceed until the rate of change of the area was sufficiently small. The method was tested on ovarian ultrasonographic images (n = 8) obtained ex situ. A expert in ovarian ultrasound interpretation delineated CL boundaries manually to serve as a "ground truth". Accuracy of the level set segmentation algorithm was determined by comparing semi-automatically determined contours with ground truth contours using the mean absolute difference (MAD), root mean squared difference (RMSD), Hausdorff distance (HD), sensitivity, and specificity metrics.

Results and discussion

The mean MAD was 0.87 mm (sigma = 0.36 mm), RMSD was 1.1 mm (sigma = 0.47 mm), and HD was 3.4 mm (sigma = 2.0 mm) indicating that, on average, boundaries were accurate within 1–2 mm, however, deviations in excess of 3 mm from the ground truth were observed indicating under- or over-expansion of the contour. Mean sensitivity and specificity were 0.814 (sigma = 0.171) and 0.990 (sigma = 0.00786), respectively, indicating that CLs were consistently undersegmented but rarely did the contour interior include pixels that were judged by the human expert not to be part of the CL. It was observed that in localities where gradient magnitudes within the CL were strong due to high contrast speckle, contour expansion stopped too early.

Conclusion

The hypothesis that level set segmentation can be accurate to within 1–2 mm on average was supported, although there can be some greater deviation. The method was robust to boundary leakage as evidenced by the high specificity. It was concluded that the technique is promising and that a suitable data set of human ovarian images should be obtained to conduct further studies.
Highly specific inhibition of leukaemia virus membrane fusion by interaction of peptide antagonists with a conserved region of the coiled coil of envelope
Authors: Lamb Daniel , Schüttelkopf Alexander W , van Aalten Daan MF , Brighty David W
Published: August 2008

Background

Human T-cell leukaemia virus (HTLV-1) and bovine leukaemia virus (BLV) entry into cells is mediated by envelope glycoprotein catalyzed membrane fusion and is achieved by folding of the transmembrane glycoprotein (TM) from a rod-like pre-hairpin intermediate to a trimer-of-hairpins. For HTLV-1 and for several virus groups this process is sensitive to inhibition by peptides that mimic the C-terminal α-helical region of the trimer-of-hairpins.

Results

We now show that amino acids that are conserved between BLV and HTLV-1 TM tend to map to the hydrophobic groove of the central triple-stranded coiled coil and to the leash and C-terminal α-helical region (LHR) of the trimer-of-hairpins. Remarkably, despite this conservation, BLV envelope was profoundly resistant to inhibition by HTLV-1-derived LHR-mimetics. Conversely, a BLV LHR-mimetic peptide antagonized BLV envelope-mediated membrane fusion but failed to inhibit HTLV-1-induced fusion. Notably, conserved leucine residues are critical to the inhibitory activity of the BLV LHR-based peptides. Homology modeling indicated that hydrophobic residues in the BLV LHR likely make direct contact with a pocket at the membrane-proximal end of the core coiled-coil and disruption of these interactions severely impaired the activity of the BLV inhibitor. Finally, the structural predictions assisted the design of a more potent antagonist of BLV membrane fusion.

Conclusion

A conserved region of the HTLV-1 and BLV coiled coil is a target for peptide inhibitors of envelope-mediated membrane fusion and HTLV-1 entry. Nevertheless, the LHR-based inhibitors are highly specific to the virus from which the peptide was derived. We provide a model structure for the BLV LHR and coiled coil, which will facilitate comparative analysis of leukaemia virus TM function and may provide information of value in the development of improved, therapeutically relevant, antagonists of HTLV-1 entry into cells.
Heavily glycosylated, highly fit SIVMne variants continue to diversify and undergo selection after transmission to a new host and they elicit early antibody dependent cellular responses but delayed neutralizing antibody responses
Authors: Eastman Dawnnica , Piantadosi Anne , Wu Xueling , Forthal Donald N , Landucci Gary , Kimata Jason T , Overbaugh Julie
Published: August 2008

Background

Lentiviruses such as human and simian immunodeficiency viruses (HIV and SIV) undergo continual evolution in the host. Previous studies showed that the late-stage variants of SIV that evolve in one host replicate to significantly higher levels when transmitted to a new host. However, it is unknown whether HIVs or SIVs that have higher replication fitness are more genetically stable upon transmission to a new host. To begin to address this, we analyzed the envelope sequence variation of viruses that evolved in animals infected with variants of SIVMne that had been cloned from an index animal at different stages of infection.

Results

We found that there was more evolution of envelope sequences from animals infected with the late-stage, highly replicating variants than in animals infected with the early-stage, lower replicating variant, despite the fact that the late virus had already diversified considerably from the early virus in the first host, prior to transmission. Many of the changes led to the addition or shift in potential-glycosylation sites-, and surprisingly, these changes emerged in some cases prior to the detection of neutralizing antibody responses, suggesting that other selection mechanisms may be important in driving virus evolution. Interestingly, these changes occurred after the development of antibody whose anti-viral function is dependent on Fc-Fcγ receptor interactions.

Conclusion

SIV variants that had achieved high replication fitness and escape from neutralizing antibodies in one host continued to evolve upon transmission to a new host. Selection for viral variants with glycosylation and other envelope changes may have been driven by both neutralizing and Fcγ receptor-mediated antibody activities.
Spike-in validation of an Illumina-specific variance-stabilizing transformation
Authors: Dunning Mark J , Ritchie Matthew E , Barbosa-Morais Nuno L , Tavaré Simon , Lynch Andy G
Published: August 2008

Background

Variance-stabilizing techniques have been used for some time in the analysis of gene expression microarray data. A new adaptation, the variance-stabilizing transformation (VST), has recently been developed to take advantage of the unique features of Illumina BeadArrays. VST has been shown to perform well in comparison with the widely-used approach of taking a log2 transformation, but has not been validated on a spike-in experiment. We apply VST to the data from a recently published spike-in experiment and compare it both to a regular log2 analysis and a recently recommended analysis that can be applied if all raw data are available.

Findings

VST provides more power to detect differentially expressed genes than a log2 transformation. However, the gain in power is roughly the same as utilizing the raw data from an experiment and weighting observations accordingly. VST is still advantageous when large changes in expression are anticipated, while a weighted log2 approach performs better for smaller changes.

Conclusion

VST can be recommended for summarized Illumina data regardless of which Illumina pre-processing options have been used. However, using the raw data is still encouraged whenever possible.
Discovering and verifying DNA polymorphisms in a mung bean [V. radiata(L.) R. Wilczek] collection by EcoTILLING and sequencing
Authors: Barkley Noelle A , Wang Ming L , Gillaspie Athey G , Dean Rob E , Pederson Gary A , Jenkins Tracie M
Published: August 2008

Background

Vigna radiata, which is classified in the family Fabaceae, is an important economic crop and a dietary staple in many developing countries. The species radiata can be further subdivided into varieties of which the variety sublobata is currently acknowledged as the putative progenitor of radiata. EcoTILLING was employed to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and small insertions/deletions (INDELS) in a collection of Vigna radiata accessions.

Findings

A total of 157 DNA polymorphisms in the collection were produced from ten primer sets when using V. radiata var. sublobata as the reference. The majority of polymorphisms detected were found in putative introns. The banding patterns varied from simple to complex as the number of DNA polymorphisms between two pooled samples increased. Numerous SNPs and INDELS ranging from 4–24 and 1–6, respectively, were detected in all fragments when pooling V. radiata var. sublobata with V. radiata var. radiata. On the other hand, when accessions of V. radiata var. radiata were mixed together and digested with CEL I relatively few SNPs and no INDELS were detected.

Conclusion

EcoTILLING was utilized to identify polymorphisms in a collection of mung bean, which previously showed limited molecular genetic diversity and limited morphological diversity in the flowers and pod descriptors. Overall, EcoTILLING proved to be a powerful genetic analysis tool providing the rapid identification of naturally occurring variation.
Lactogenic differentiation of HC11 cells is not accompanied by downregulation of AP-2 transcription factor genes
Authors: Jäger Richard , Pappas Leontios , Schorle Hubert
Published: August 2008

Background

During pregnancy the mammary epithelium undergoes a complex developmental process which culminates in the generation of the milk-secreting epithelium. Secretory epithelial cells display lactogenic differentiation which is characterized by the expression of milk protein genes, such as beta-casein or whey acidic protein (WAP). Transcription factors AP-2alpha and AP-2gamma are downregulated during lactation, and their overexpression in transgenic mice impaired the secretory differentiation of the mammary epithelium, resulting in lactation failure. To explore whether the downregulation of AP-2alpha and AP-2gamma is of functional significance for lactogenic differentiation, we analyzed the expression of the AP-2 family members during the lactogenic differentiation of HC11 mammary epithelial cells in vitro. Differentiation of HC11 cells was induced following established protocols by applying the lactogenic hormones prolactin, dexamethasone and insulin.

Findings

HC11 cells express all AP-2 family members except AP-2delta. Using RT-PCR we could not detect a downregulation of any of these genes during the lactogenic differentiation of HC11 cells in vitro. This finding was confirmed for AP-2alpha and AP-2gamma using Northern analysis. Differentiating HC11 cells displayed lower expression levels of milk protein genes than mammary glands of mid-pregnant or lactating mice.

Conclusion

The extent of lactogenic differentiation of HC11 cells in vitro is limited compared to mammary epithelium undergoing secretory differentiation in vivo. Downregulation of AP-2 transcription factor genes is not required for lactogenic differentiation of HC11 cells but may functionally be involved in aspects of lactogenic differentiation in vivo that are not reflected by the HC11 system.
Amyloid-beta peptide degradation in cell cultures by mycoplasma contaminants
Authors: Zhao Haitian , Dreses-Werringloer Ute , Davies Peter , Marambaud Philippe
Published: August 2008

Background

Cell cultures have become an indispensable tool in Alzheimer's disease research for studying amyloid-β (Aβ) metabolism. It is estimated that up to 35% of cell cultures in current use are infected with various mycoplasma species. In contrast with common bacterial and fungal infections, contaminations of cell cultures with mycoplasmas represent a challenging issue in terms of detectability and prevention. Mycoplasmas are the smallest and simplest self-replicating bacteria and the consequences of an infection for the host cells are variable, ranging from no apparent effect to induction of apoptosis.

Findings

Here we present evidence that mycoplasmas from a cell culture contamination are able to efficiently and rapidly degrade extracellular Aβ. As a result, we observed no accumulation of Aβ in the conditioned medium of mycoplasma-positive cells stably transfected with the amyloid-β precursor protein (APP). Importantly, eradication of the mycoplasma contaminant – identified as M. hyorhinis – by treatments with a quinolone-based antibiotic, restored extracellular Aβ accumulation in the APP-transfected cells.

Conclusion

These data show that mycoplasmas degrade Aβ and thus may represent a significant source of variability when comparing extracellular Aβ levels in different cell lines. On the basis of these results, we recommend assessment of mycoplasma contaminations prior to extracellular Aβ level measurements in cultured cells.
Statistical analysis of post mortem DNA damage-derived miscoding lesions in Neandertal mitochondrial DNA
Authors: Vives Sergi , Gilbert M Thomas , Arenas Conchita , Gigli Elena , Lao Oscar , Lalueza-Fox Carles
Published: August 2008

Background

We have analysed the distribution of post mortem DNA damage derived miscoding lesions from the datasets of seven published Neandertal specimens that have extensive cloned sequence coverage over the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) hypervariable region 1 (HVS1). The analysis was restricted to C→T and G→A miscoding lesions (the predominant manifestation of post mortem damage) that are seen at a frequency of more than one clone among sequences from a single PCR, but do not represent the true endogenous sequence.

Findings

The data indicates an extreme bias towards C→T over G→A miscoding lesions (observed ratio of 67:2 compared to an expected ratio of 7:2), implying that the mtDNA Light strand molecule suffers proportionally more damage-derived miscoding lesions than the Heavy strand.

Conclusion

The clustering of Cs in the Light strand as opposed to the singleton pattern of Cs in the Heavy strand could explain the observed bias, a phenomenon that could be further tested with non-PCR based approaches. The characterization of the HVS1 hotspots will be of use to future Neandertal mtDNA studies, with specific regards to assessing the authenticity of new positions previously unknown to be polymorphic.
Development and application of a microarray meter tool to optimize microarray experiments
Authors: Rouse Richard JD , Field Katrine , Lapira Jennifer , Lee Allen , Wick Ivan , Eckhardt Colleen , Bhasker C Ramana , Soverchia Laura , Hardiman Gary
Published: August 2008

Background

Successful microarray experimentation requires a complex interplay between the slide chemistry, the printing pins, the nucleic acid probes and targets, and the hybridization milieu. Optimization of these parameters and a careful evaluation of emerging slide chemistries are a prerequisite to any large scale array fabrication effort. We have developed a 'microarray meter' tool which assesses the inherent variations associated with microarray measurement prior to embarking on large scale projects.

Findings

The microarray meter consists of nucleic acid targets (reference and dynamic range control) and probe components. Different plate designs containing identical probe material were formulated to accommodate different robotic and pin designs. We examined the variability in probe quality and quantity (as judged by the amount of DNA printed and remaining post-hybridization) using three robots equipped with capillary printing pins.

Discussion

The generation of microarray data with minimal variation requires consistent quality control of the (DNA microarray) manufacturing and experimental processes. Spot reproducibility is a measure primarily of the variations associated with printing. The microarray meter assesses array quality by measuring the DNA content for every feature. It provides a post-hybridization analysis of array quality by scoring probe performance using three metrics, a) a measure of variability in the signal intensities, b) a measure of the signal dynamic range and c) a measure of variability of the spot morphologies.
Fisher: a program for the detection of H/ACA snoRNAs using MFE secondary structure prediction and comparative genomics – assessment and update
Authors: Freyhult Eva , Edvardsson Sverker , Tamas Ivica , Moulton Vincent , Poole Anthony M
Published: August 2008

Background

The H/ACA family of small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) plays a central role in guiding the pseudouridylation of ribosomal RNA (rRNA). In an effort to systematically identify the complete set of rRNA-modifying H/ACA snoRNAs from the genome sequence of the budding yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, we developed a program – Fisher – and previously presented several candidate snoRNAs based on our analysis [1].

Findings

In this report, we provide a brief update of this work, which was aborted after the publication of experimentally-identified snoRNAs [2] identical to candidates we had identified bioinformatically using Fisher. Our motivation for revisiting this work is to report on the status of the candidate snoRNAs described in [1], and secondly, to report that a modified version of Fisher together with the available multiple yeast genome sequences was able to correctly identify several H/ACA snoRNAs for modification sites not identified by the snoGPS program [3]. While we are no longer developing Fisher, we briefly consider the merits of the Fisher algorithm relative to snoGPS, which may be of use for workers considering pursuing a similar search strategy for the identification of small RNAs. The modified source code for Fisher is made available as supplementary material.

Conclusion

Our results confirm the validity of using minimum free energy (MFE) secondary structure prediction to guide comparative genomic screening for RNA families with few sequence constraints.
Different media and supplements modulate the clonogenic and expansion properties of rabbit bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Lapi Simone , Nocchi Francesca , Lamanna Roberta , Passeri Simona , Iorio Mariacarla , Paolicchi Aldo , Urciuoli Patrizia , Coli Alessandra , Abramo Francesca , Miragliotta Vincenzo , Giannessi Elisabetta , Stornelli Maria Rita , Vanacore Renato , Stampacchia Giulia , Pisani Guido , Borghetti Luciano , Scatena Fabrizio
Published: August 2008

Background -

Rabbits provide an excellent model for many animal and human diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, for the development of new vaccines in wound healing management and in the field of tissue engineering of tendon, cartilage, bone and skin.

The study presented herein aims to investigate the biological properties of bone marrow rabbit MSCs cultured in different conditions, in order to provide a basis for their clinical applications in veterinary medicine.

Findings -

MSCs were isolated from 5 New Zealand rabbits. Fold increase, CFU number, doubling time, differentiation ability and immunophenotype were analyzed.

With the plating density of 10 cells/cm2 the fold increase was significantly lower with DMEM-20%FCS and MSCs growth was significantly higher with αMEM-hEGF. The highest clonogenic ability was found at 100 cell/cm2 with MSCBM and at 10 cell/cm2 with M199. Both at 10 and 100 cells/cm2, in αMEM medium, the highest CFU increase was obtained by adding bFGF. Supplementing culture media with 10%FCS-10%HS determined a significant increase of CFU.

Conclusion -

Our data suggest that different progenitor cells with differential sensitivity to media, sera and growth factors exist and the choice of culture conditions has to be carefully considered for MSC management.
The complete chloroplast genome sequence of Brachypodium distachyon: sequence comparison and phylogenetic analysis of eight grass plastomes
Authors: Bortiri Esteban , Coleman-Derr Devin , Lazo Gerard R , Anderson Olin D , Gu Yong Q
Published: August 2008

Background

Wheat, barley, and rye, of tribe Triticeae in the Poaceae, are among the most important crops worldwide but they present many challenges to genomics-aided crop improvement.Brachypodium distachyon, a close relative of those cereals has recently emerged as a model for grass functional genomics. Sequencing of the nuclear and organelle genomes ofBrachypodiumis one of the first steps towards making this species available as a tool for researchers interested in cereals biology.

Findings

The chloroplast genome ofBrachypodium distachyonwas sequenced by a combinational approach using BAC end and shotgun sequences derived from a selected BAC containing the entire chloroplast genome. Comparative analysis indicated that the chloroplast genome is conserved in gene number and organization with respect to those of other cereals. However, severalBrachypodiumgenes evolve at a faster rate than those in other grasses. Sequence analysis reveals that rice and wheat have a ~2.1 kb deletion in their plastid genomes and this deletion must have occurred independently in both species.

Conclusion

We demonstrate that BAC libraries can be used to sequence plastid, and likely other organellar, genomes. As expected, theBrachypodiumchloroplast genome is very similar to those of other sequenced grasses. The phylogenetic analyses and the pattern of insertions and deletions in the chloroplast genome confirmed thatBrachypodiumis a close relative of the tribe Triticeae. Nevertheless, we show that some large indels can arise multiple times and may confound phylogenetic reconstruction.
Regulation of STAT pathways and IRF1 during human dendritic cell maturation by TNF-α and PGE2
Authors: Hu Yang , Park-Min Kyung-Hyun , Yarilina Anna , Ivashkiv Lionel B
Published: August 2008

Maturation of dendritic cells (DCs) by TLR ligands induces expression of IFN-β and autocrine activation of IFN-inducible Stat1-dependent genes important for DC function. In this study, we analyzed the regulation of STAT signaling during maturation of human DCs by TNF-α and PGE2, which induced maturation of human DCs comparably with LPS but did not induce detectable IFN-β production or Stat1 tyrosine phosphorylation. Consistent with these results, TNF-α and PGE2 did not induce Stat1 DNA binding to a standard Stat1-binding oligonucleotide. Instead, TNF-α and PGE2 increased Stat1 serine phosphorylation and Stat4 tyrosine phosphorylation and activated expression of the NF-κB and Stat1 target gene IFN regulatory factor 1 (IRF1), which contributes to IFN responses. TNF-α and PGE2 induced a complex that bound an oligonucleotide derived from the IRF1 promoter that contains a STAT-binding sequence embedded in a larger palindromic sequence, and this complex was recognized by Stat1 antibodies. These results suggest that TNF-α and PGE2 activate STAT-mediated components of human DC maturation by alternative pathways to the IFN-β-mediated autocrine loop used by TLRs.
Insights into mechanisms behind arteriogenesis: what does the future hold?
Authors: van Oostrom Melany C , van Oostrom Olivia , Quax Paul H A , Verhaar Marianne C , Hoefer Imo E
Published: August 2008

Arteriogenesis, the enlargement of collateral vessels, seems a promising new target to improve blood flow to ischemic regions in patients suffering from cardiovascular conditions. With the growing knowledge of the mechanisms involved in arteriogenesis and the factors that influence the process, an increasing number of clinical trials are being performed to stimulate arteriogenesis, providing more insight in therapeutic opportunities for arteriogenesis. The expression of growth factors and the cooperation of surrounding and infiltrating cells seem to be essential in orchestrating the complex processes during arteriogenesis. In this review, we will discuss the regulating mechanisms of arteriogenesis, including the role of growth factors and different cell types and their implementation in a clinical setting. Furthermore, individual differences in the arteriogenic response will be considered, in light of the effect this will have on the success of therapeutic strategies to improve blood flow to ischemic tissue.
Estimating interval shear-wave splitting from multicomponent virtual shear check shots
Authors: Bakulin Andrey , Mateeva Albena
Published: August 2008

Measuring shear-wave splitting from vertical seismic profiling (VSP) data can benefit fracture and stress characterization as well as seismic processing and interpretation. The classic approach to measuring azimuthal anisotropy at depth involves layer stripping. Its inherent weakness is the need to measure and undo overburden effects before arriving at an anisotropy estimate at depth. That task is challenging when the overburden is complex and varies quickly with depth. Moreover, VSP receivers are rarely present all the way from the surface to the target. That necessitates the use of simplistic assumptions about the uninstrumented part of the overburden that limit the quality of the result. We propose a new technique for measuring shear-wave splitting at depth that does not require any knowledge of the overburden. It is based on a multicomponent version of the virtual source method in which each two-component (2-C) VSP receiver is turned into a 2-C shear source and recorded at deeper geophones. The resulting virtual data set is affected only by the properties of the medium between the receivers. A simple Alford rotation transforms the data set into fast and slow shear virtual check shots from which shear-wave splitting can be measured easily and accurately under arbitrarily complex overburden.
Memory and the Brain
Authors: Davies W. G.
Published: August 2008

Memory is an attractive theme, and one on which it is important that just views should prevail. It seems, however, that there is too much inexactness in the views which are commonly entertained about memory. It is generally supposed to be a repository, or something analogous to a tablet, which receives or retains impressions. Now, these notions, when the facts of the case are minutely investigated, fall short, in many respects, of the truth. This may be partly accounted for by the difficulty which, at first, invariably exists to find words to express mental operations, for men, at the outset, are forced to use, in an analogical sense, words already associated with physical phenomena, in order to designate those of mind. When, therefore, we speak of memory as a receptacle of impressions, after the manner of a tablet, we may perhaps mean no more than this, that there is some kind of analogy between memory and a tablet. Allowing that there is truth in what is here stated, it nevertheless seems that the words which are usually chosen to describe the phenomena of memory, are intended to convey the idea that knowledge exists in the mind in a latent condition, that it resides there even when it is not manifest in the form of consciousness or cognition, and to deny this will be deemed a grave error by some, and, indeed, present a paradoxical air to all. But let us examine the facts of the case.
Some Remarks on the Ulster Revival, so named, of 1859
Authors: Mac Cormac Henry
Published: August 2008

An eye-witness of this remarkable phenomenon, the Ulster Revival of 1859, I should wish to dilate, yet a little, upon it, ere the period for doing so passes entirely away. The agitation which it engendered still lingers somewhat. And as like causes produce like effects, more revivals may perhaps be anticipated, when the seeds so profusely scattered shall experience with time the requisite development.
On the Means of Extending the Public Asylum System; a Sequel
Authors: Robertson C. L.
Published: August 2008

In the ‘Journal of Mental Science’ for January, 1866, I published a paper containing a few remarks ‘On the several means of providing for the yearly increase of Pauper Lunatics.’
The Pathology of Aphasia
Authors: Robertson Alexander
Published: August 2008

To the students of mind in its healthy as well as in its diseased condition, the doctrine that certain portions of the brain are associated with particular mental powers is necessarily one of engrossing interest. Until lately, however, the facts advanced in support of the existence of this association have been so inadequate, that the majority of thinkers have regarded the doctrine itself, maintained as it has been with so much zeal by Gall and his followers, to be little more than a theory, no doubt probable enough, but deficient in that solid basis of proof which alone could warrant its acceptance on any higher ground. But it has recently been confidently asserted that evidence is at last forthcoming that the organ of one faculty, the faculty of articulate language, has now been discovered. Still, the alleged discovery, though it were established, would give only qualified support to the phrenological view just referred to, as, contrary to all preconceived notions derived from the bilateral symmetry of the brain, the supposed organ is declared to be situated on its left side alone. Conclusions of so weighty moment evidently require that the validity of their premises should be thoroughly tested; and it is in the hope that I may be able in some degree to show how far they are trustworthy, that I have ventured to bring the facts and considerations embodied in the following paper under the notice of this Society.
A Comparative Examination of the Laws of Lunacy in Europe
Authors: Mundy Baron J.
Published: August 2008

Mr. President and Gentlemen—Allow me before I go into my subject to thank you for the kindness you have displayed to me in electing me a honorary member of your Association, and much more so as it is perhaps to-day for the last time that I shall have the honour to address you before my retirement from this branch of science.
French Psychological Literature
Authors: Sibbald John
Published: August 2008

Pathology of the Brain in Cholera.—Dr. E. Mesnet devotes a paper to the consideration of the cerebral lesions observed in this disease. With the first period of the disease, that of prostration and enfeeblement, are associated functional disorders of the ganglionic nervous system; with the second, or reactive period, are associated those cerebral complications to which Mesnet directs our attention. In the cases of three persons who were seized with choleraic symptoms, while under the influence of alcoholic intoxication, the algidity and cyanotic symptoms did not come on. But about the tenth day of the disease a condition undistinguishable from delirium tremens made its appearance, and, after continuing three days, gave place to convalescence, which was inaugurated by an abundant and apparently critical perspiration. In general, he says, the discord between the nervous functions of animal life and those connected with relational existence is very striking. “There is nothing more affecting than the appearance of the asphyxie stage of collapse when the patient is in continual movement, when his features and skin are corpse-like, and visceral innervation appears to be extinguished, when all organic functions appear to have ceased, and when, nevertheless, his intellect is preserved and he can converse with us up to the last moment. The mind has no longer its natural vivacity; the con ceptions are languid; the memory requires to be stimulated; but when the patient is roused and the attention fixed, correct answers are obtained to questions put. The semi-comatose condition in which he is found is not the coma of cerebral disease, but a sort of drowsiness, which results from the general exhaustion of organic life. The benumbed condition of the senses is, in part, the cause of slowness of cerebral action; less sensitive to external stimuli, they transmit imperfect impressions, which are followed by obscure sensation. The hearing is almost lost, vision enfeebled, and sensi bility in general obtuse. As soon as the collapse begins to pass off, and reaction supervenes, the intellectual faculties recover from the torpidity to which we have referred, and the patient, who is more or less aware of his condition, becomes conscious of what is going on around him, and directs a restless attention to it.
Observations on Puerperal Insanity
Authors: Boyd Robert
Published: August 2008

In the Somerset County Lunatic Asylum, during twenty years, ending 1st March, 1868, sixty-three cases of puerperal insanity came under my care, being 4·6 per cent of females admitted in that period, not including re-admissions. I have drawn up a summary of these cases to lay before the present meeting of the Medico-Psychological Association.
Two Cases of Rheumatic Insanity
Authors: Clouston T. S.
Published: August 2008

C. M., admitted January 17th, 1870, æt. 24. Married; wife of sailor; can read and write; Church of England; from Whitehaven.
A Further Note on the Alleged Increase of Lunacy
Authors: Robertson C. Lockhart
Published: August 2008

At the Second Quarterly Meeting of the Medico-Psychological Association (January 28th, 1869), I read a paper on The Alleged Increase of Lunacy. I there observed that the alleged increase of lunacy is a frequent theme of discussion in the public press, as also a subject of anxious enquiry in society, and that there is hardly a Board-room of any county asylum in which the question is not raised with the practical intent of determining the amount of provision to be made for the care and treatment of the insane poor, and I added that, in order to satisfy such enquiries on the part of the Visitors of the Hayward's Heath Asylum, I had recently endeavoured to see if our existing statistical records afford any means of solving this pressing question, Is lunacy on the increase in our generation? Moreover, considering the opportunity of the second quarterly meeting of the Medico-Psychological Association, for scientific discussion, might fitly be used for the farther sifting of this important State question, I then submitted to its critical examination the figures and results with which my enquiry into the alleged increase of lunacy had furnished me. These results, which were worked out in a series of carefully compiled tables, I may thus briefly sum up:—1.—Total Numbers of the Insane.
Madness in Animals
Authors: Lindsay W. Lauder
Published: August 2008

If the term insanity, as applied to man, is one that it is difficult, if not impossible, accurately to define;—if human insanity includes a great number of the most diverse mental and bodily conditions or phenomena,—the term madness, as applied to other animals, is still more vague and unsatisfactory in its definition, and animal madness includes a much more heterogeneous group of the most opposite kinds of maladies. While the said term madness has been borrowed by veterinarians from human medicine, it is evidently regarded in a different signification when applied to other animals than man. So much so, that while the character of the mental phenomena in certain diseases of the lower animals must be, and is, admitted by all veterinarians, they deny, nevertheless, their parallelism to those of insanity in man, on the ground that animals have not sound minds, and cannot, therefore, possess unsound ones! Such a belief merely illustrates the utter ignorance and prejudice regarding the mental constitution of animals, which appear to be characteristic of veterinarians as a class.
Feigned Attempts at Suicide
Authors: Nicolson David
Published: August 2008

That our convict prisons should be the theatres upon whose stage are enacted day by day a varied round of farces and burlesques of a more or less tragical significance, is a thought whose development may be interesting, or simply amusing, according to the direction in which our fancy for the time being leads us.
Our Over-crowded Lunatic Asylums
Authors: Williams S. W. D.
Published: August 2008

We have it on the word of Justinian, that “by the law of nature all men were born free.” Yet the Blue Book of the Commissioners in Lunacy, recently published, shows that 36,871 Englishmen are deprived of their liberty, and confined in lunatic asylums. And if we compare these numbers with those in the Report for 1869 it will be found that during the year 1870 the insane of all classes have increased in number by 2,042, or 174 private and 1,868 pauper patients. This increase is not exceptional, but has been going on for many years.