bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relatedness of Human and Animal
Clostridium difficile
PCR Ribotype 078 Isolates Determined on the Basis of Multilocus Variable-Number Tandem-Repeat Analysis and Tetracycline Resistance
Authors: Bakker D. , Corver J. , Harmanus C. , Goorhuis A. , Keessen E. C. , Fawley W. N. , Wilcox M. H. , Kuijper E. J.
Published: August 2010

Totals of 102 and 56
Clostridium difficile
type 078 strains of human and porcine origins, respectively, from four European countries were investigated by an optimized multilocus variable-number tandem-repeat analysis (MLVA) and for tetracycline susceptibility. Eighty-five percent of all isolates were genetically related, irrespective of human or porcine origin. Human strains were significantly more resistant to tetracycline than porcine strains. All tetracycline-resistant strains contained the Tn
916
-like transposon harboring the
tet
(M) gene. We conclude that strains from human and porcine origins are genetically related, irrespective of the country of origin. This may reflect a lack of diversity and/or common source.
Haemophilus influenzae
Outer Membrane Protein P6 Molecular Characterization May Not Differentiate All Strains of
H. Influenzae
from
H. haemolyticus
Authors: Chang Arthur , Adlowitz Diana G. , Yellamatty Edna , Pichichero Michael
Published: August 2010

Distinguishing nontypeable
Haemophilus influenzae
and
Haemophilus haemolyticus
isolates by outer membrane protein (OMP) P6 gene sequencing is complicated by sequence variants in isolates. Further testing using RapID NH and multilocus sequence analysis may not help identify some isolates. Translated OMP P6 gene sequences are not conserved among all isolates presumed to be
H. influenzae.
Evaluation of the Capilia TB Assay for Culture Confirmation of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Infections in Zambia and South Africa
Authors: Muyoyeta Monde , de Haas Petra E. W. , Mueller Dirk H. , van Helden Paul D. , Mwenge Lawrence , Schaap Ab , Kruger Clarissa , Gey van Pittius Nicolaas C. , Lawrence Katherine , Beyers Nulda , Godfrey-Faussett Peter , Ayles Helen
Published: August 2010

The performance and cost of the Capilia TB assay were evaluated for use in a resource-limited setting. The sensitivity and specificity were 99.6% and 99.5%, respectively. The incremental costs of the Capilia test were estimated to be $1.46 and $1.84 when the test was added to liquid and solid culture processes, respectively. These findings suggest that the Capilia TB assay represents a rapid, simple, and inexpensive
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
identification test that can be used in resource-limited settings.
Nuclear Localization of Tegument-Delivered pp71 in Human Cytomegalovirus-Infected Cells Is Facilitated by One or More Factors Present in Terminally Differentiated Fibroblasts
Authors: Penkert Rhiannon R. , Kalejta Robert F.
Published: August 2010

Herpesviral virions contain a tegument layer that consists primarily of viral proteins. The delivery of fully functional proteins to infected cells upon virion envelope fusion to the plasma membrane allows herpesviruses to modulate cellular activities prior to viral gene expression. Certain tegument proteins can also regulate viral processes. For example, the pp71 tegument protein encoded by the UL82 gene of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) stimulates viral immediate early (IE) gene expression and thus acts to initiate the productive lytic infectious cycle. In terminally differentiated fibroblasts infected with HCMV, tegument-delivered pp71 traffics to the nucleus and degrades the cellular transcriptional corepressor Daxx to initiate viral IE gene expression and lytic replication. However, when HCMV infects incompletely differentiated cells, tegument-delivered pp71 remains in the cytoplasm, allowing the nucleus-localized Daxx protein to silence viral IE gene expression and promote the establishment of a latent infection in certain cell types. We sought to determine whether undifferentiated cells block the trafficking of tegument-delivered pp71 to the nucleus or whether differentiated cells facilitate the nuclear transport of tegument-delivered pp71. Heterogenous cell fusion experiments demonstrated that tegument-delivered pp71 found in the cytoplasm of undifferentiated NT2 cells could be driven into the nucleus by one or more factors provided by fully differentiated fibroblasts. Our data raise the intriguing possibility that latency is the default program launched by HCMV upon viral entry into cells and that lytic infection is initiated only in certain (differentiated) cells that can facilitate the delivery of incoming pp71 to the nucleus.
Identification of Alpha Interferon-Induced Genes Associated with Antiviral Activity in Daudi Cells and Characterization of IFIT3 as a Novel Antiviral Gene
Authors: Schmeisser H. , Mejido J. , Balinsky C. A. , Morrow A. N. , Clark C. R. , Zhao T. , Zoon K. C.
Published: August 2010

A novel assay was developed for Daudi cells in which the antiviral (AV) and antiproliferative (AP) activities of interferon (IFN) can be measured simultaneously. Using this novel assay, conditions allowing IFN AV protection but no growth inhibition were identified and selected. Daudi cells were treated under these conditions, and gene expression microarray analyses were performed. The results of the analysis identified 25 genes associated with IFN-α AV activity. Upregulation of 23 IFN-induced genes was confirmed by using reverse transcription-PCR. Of 25 gene products, 17 were detected by Western blotting at 24 h. Of the 25 genes, 10 have not been previously linked to AV activity of IFN-α. The most upregulated gene was IFIT3 (for IFN-induced protein with tetratricopeptide repeats 3). The results from antibody neutralizing experiments suggested an association of the identified genes with IFN-α AV activity. This association was strengthened by results from IFIT3-small interfering RNA transfection experiments showing decreased expression of IFIT3 and a reduction in the AV activity induced by IFN-α. Overexpression of IFIT3 resulted in a decrease of virus titer. Transcription of AV genes after the treatment of cells with higher concentrations of IFN having an AP effect on Daudi cells suggested pleiotropic functions of identified gene products.
The Human Papillomavirus Type 16 E5 Oncoprotein Inhibits Epidermal Growth Factor Trafficking Independently of Endosome Acidification
Authors: Suprynowicz Frank A. , Krawczyk Ewa , Hebert Jess D. , Sudarshan Sawali R. , Simic Vera , Kamonjoh Christopher M. , Schlegel Richard
Published: August 2010

The human papillomavirus type 16 E5 oncoprotein (16E5) enhances acute, ligand-dependent activation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and concomitantly alkalinizes endosomes, presumably by binding to the 16-kDa “c” subunit of the V-ATPase proton pump (16K) and inhibiting V-ATPase function. However, the relationship between 16K binding, endosome alkalinization, and altered EGFR signaling remains unclear. Using an antibody that we generated against 16K, we found that 16E5 associated with only a small fraction of endogenous 16K in keratinocytes, suggesting that it was unlikely that E5 could significantly affect V-ATPase function by direct inhibition. Nevertheless, E5 inhibited the acidification of endosomes, as determined by a new assay using a biologically active, pH-sensitive fluorescent EGF conjugate. Since we also found that 16E5 did not alter cell surface EGF binding, the number of EGFRs on the cell surface, or the endocytosis of prebound EGF, we postulated that it might be blocking the fusion of early endosomes with acidified vesicles. Our studies with pH-sensitive and -insensitive fluorescent EGF conjugates and fluorescent dextran confirmed that E5 prevented endosome maturation (acidification and enlargement) by inhibiting endosome fusion. The E5-dependent defect in vesicle fusion was not due to detectable disruption of actin, tubulin, vimentin, or cytokeratin filaments, suggesting that membrane fusion was being directly affected rather than vesicle transport. Perhaps most importantly, while bafilomycin A1(like E5) binds to 16K and inhibits endosome acidification, it did not mimic the ability of E5 to inhibit endosome enlargement or the trafficking of EGF. Thus, 16E5 alters EGF endocytic trafficking via a pH-independent inhibition of vesicle fusion.
Mononucleosis and Antigen-Driven T Cell Responses Have Different Requirements for Interleukin-2 Signaling in Murine Gammaherpesvirus Infection
Authors: Molloy Michael , Zhang Weijun , Usherwood Edward
Published: August 2010

Interleukin-2 (IL-2) has been implicated as being necessary for the optimal formation of primary CD8+T cell responses against various pathogens. Here we have examined the role that IL-2 signaling plays in several aspects of a CD8+T cell response against murine gammaherpesvirus 68 (MHV-68). Exposure to MHV-68 causes a persistent infection, along with infectious mononucleosis, providing a model for studying these processes in mice. Our study indicates that CD25 is necessary for optimal expansion of the antigen-specific CD8+T cell response but not for the long-term memory response. Contrastingly, IL-2 signaling through CD25 is absolutely required for CD8+T cell mononucleosis.
Crystallographic Structure of Porcine Adenovirus Type 4 Fiber Head and Galectin Domains
Authors: Guardado-Calvo Pablo , Muñoz Eva M. , Llamas-Saiz Antonio L. , Fox Gavin C. , Kahn Richard , Curiel David T. , Glasgow Joel N. , van Raaij Mark J.
Published: August 2010

Adenovirus isolate NADC-1, a strain of porcine adenovirus type 4, has a fiber containing an N-terminal virus attachment region, shaft and head domains, and a C-terminal galectin domain connected to the head by an RGD-containing sequence. The crystal structure of the head domain is similar to previously solved adenovirus fiber head domains, but specific residues for binding the coxsackievirus and adenovirus receptor (CAR), CD46, or sialic acid are not conserved. The structure of the galectin domain reveals an interaction interface between its two carbohydrate recognition domains, locating both sugar binding sites face to face. Sequence evidence suggests other tandem-repeat galectins have the same arrangement. We show that the galectin domain binds carbohydrates containing lactose and
N
-acetyl-lactosamine units, and we present structures of the galectin domain with lactose,
N
-acetyl-lactosamine, 3-aminopropyl-lacto-
N
-neotetraose, and 2-aminoethyl-tri(
N
-acetyl-lactosamine), confirming the domain as a bona fide galectin domain.
Low-Dose Mucosal Simian Immunodeficiency Virus Infection Restricts Early Replication Kinetics and Transmitted Virus Variants in Rhesus Monkeys
Authors: Liu Jinyan , Keele Brandon F. , Li Hui , Keating Sheila , Norris Philip J. , Carville Angela , Mansfield Keith G. , Tomaras Georgia D. , Haynes Barton F. , Kolodkin-Gal Dror , Letvin Norman L. , Hahn Beatrice H. , Shaw George M. , Barouch Dan H.
Published: August 2010

Defining the earliest virologic events following human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) transmission may be critical for the design of vaccine strategies aimed at blocking acquisition of HIV-1 infection. In particular, the length of the eclipse phase and the number of transmitted virus variants may define the window in which a prophylactic vaccine must act. Here we show that the dose of the virus inoculum affects these key virologic parameters following intrarectal simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infection of rhesus monkeys. Low-dose SIV infection resulted in a lengthened eclipse phase, fewer transmitted virus variants, and decreased innate immune activation compared with these parameters in high-dose SIV infection. These data suggest a mechanism by which it may be considerably easier for a vaccine to protect against low-risk HIV-1 transmission than against high-risk HIV-1 transmission. These findings have implications for the design and interpretation of HIV-1 vaccine efficacy studies.
Characteristics of m-Plane InN Films Grown on ZnO Substrates at Room Temperature by Pulsed Laser Deposition
Authors: Shimomoto Kazuma , Kobayashi Atsushi , Mitamura Kazuya , Ueno Kohei , Ohta Jitsuo , Oshima Masaharu , Fujioka Hiroshi
Published: August 2010

We have grown single-crystal m-plane (1100) InN films on m-plane (1100) ZnO substrates at low substrate temperatures by the use of pulsed laser deposition. X-ray diffraction and electron back-scattered diffraction measurements have revealed that pure m-plane InN grows at substrate temperatures below 300 °C. The full width at half maximum values of the X-ray rocking curves for m-plane InN grown at room temperature (RT) are as low as 0.12 and 0.12° with X-ray incidence directions normal to [0001] and [1120], respectively. Grazing-incidence X-ray reflectivity measurements have revealed that interfacial layers of greater than 5 nm in thickness are formed in the samples grown at temperatures above 300 °C, while no interfacial layers are formed between InN and ZnO at RT. The suppression of interfacial reactions by reducing the growth temperature down to RT is probably the reason for the improvements in crystalline quality that are observed.
3,6-Diarylcarbazole Derivatives as a Host Material in Organic Electrophosphorescent Diodes
Authors: Muneuchi Kenji , Sasaki Masaomi , Sasabe Hiroyuki , Adachi Chihaya
Published: August 2010

We synthesized 3,6-diarylcarbazole (CBZ) derivatives and investigated their thin-film optical (i.e., absorption, fluorescence and phosphorescence) properties and electroluminescence characteristics. We fabricated phosphorescent organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) employing CBZ derivatives as the host and fac-tris(2-phenypyridine)iridium [Ir(ppy)3] as the guest at a doping concentration of 6 wt %. These devices exhibited maximum external quantum efficiencies (ηext) in the range 1 to 11%, depending on the host. In particular, the OLED with CBZ7 as the host exhibited the highest ηext of 11.2% and a maximum power conversion efficiency (ηenergy) of 25 lm/W.
Antiferroelectric Switching between Optically Isotropic and Birefringent B2 Phases of Bent-Shaped Molecules with High Tilt Angle of 45°
Authors: Lee Seng Kue , Kang Sungmin , Tokita Masatoshi , Watanabe Junji
Published: August 2010

We prepared a homologous series of bent-shaped molecules with a 1,3-naphthalene central core and long side wings in which one phenyl ring is attached to the classic one via ester linkage. These banana molecules form the B2 phase with a high tilt angle of approximately 45° in the wide temperature region and exhibit the field-induced transformation from racemic synclinic SmCSPA to homochiral anticlinic SmCAPA. The field induced anticlinic SmCAPA phase is optically isotropic because of the high tilt angle of around 45° and makes a high contrast in birefringence with the switched synclinic SmCSPF phase, suggesting potentiality as a new type of ferroelectric display mode.
Vertical Stand Transparent Light-Emitting Diode Architecture for High-Efficiency and High-Power Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Pan Chih-Chien , Koslow Ingrid , Sonoda Junichi , Ohta Hiroaki , Ha Jun-Seok , Nakamura Shuji , DenBaars Steven P.
Published: August 2010

Using a transparent ZnO vertical stand as a submount, a novel Light-emitting diode architecture, which is similar to conventional lighting bulbs, was proposed. The emission power of a blue LED based on c-plane (0001) bulk GaN was increased by 14.2 and 5.1% compared with those of conventional and suspended die packages, respectively. The output power and external quantum efficiency of LEDs respectively reached 31.7 mW and 57.1% at a forward current of 20 mA under direct current conditions. The high thermal conductivity and refractive index of the transparent submount simultaneously resulted in high current operation and high external efficiency.
Dynamic Behavior of Magnetic Alignment in Rotating Field for Magnetically Weak Particles
Authors: Yamaguchi Masuhiro , Ozawa Shun , Yamamoto Isao
Published: August 2010

The rotational diffusion equation was formulated and calculated for the rotating field method that yields a unidirectional alignment for magnetically weak particles. The distribution function and the order parameter were obtained as a function of time and rotation frequency. We determined the reasonable conditions of the strength, duration and rotation frequency of applied fields for obtaining unidirectional alignment by the rotating field method.
Composition Shift as a Function of Thickness in Fe3-δO4(001) Epitaxial Films
Authors: Minagawa Makoto , Yanagihara Hideto , Uwabo Kazuyuki , Kita Eiji , Mibu Ko
Published: August 2010

We report on a thickness-dependent composition shift and a valency change in B-site Fe in Fe3-δO4(001) epitaxial films prepared by ozone-assisted molecular beam epitaxy. Conversion electron Mössbauer spectroscopy (CEMS) measurements for locally inserted 57Fe-enriched probe layers showed that a pure γ-Fe2O3 film can be obtained only if the film is sufficiently thin, and that the composition shift occurs when the thickness increases. The resistivity of Fe3-δO4 films having different thicknesses exhibited a significant decrease with an increase in the thickness, consistent with the CEMS experiment. These results indicate that γ-Fe2O3 films do not preferably grow homoepitaxially and that careful control of the growth is necessary to apply γ-Fe2O3 films to spintronics devices.
Excitation Energy Transfer of Metastable Krypton Atoms in Kr–He–Xe Low Pressure Glow Discharge for Mercury-Free Lighting
Authors: Hwang Hyeon Seok , Baik Hong Koo , Park Ki Wan , Song Kie Moon , Lee Se Jong
Published: August 2010

The discharge of the gas mixture Kr–He–Xe was investigated as a source of vacuum ultraviolet for lighting purposes. The discharge characteristics of the Xe–He–Kr gas mixture were enhanced in comparison to those of Xe and a Xe–He gas mixture. The experimental results were evaluated by the infrared radiation from the positive column. The amount of infrared radiation under optimum conditions displayed higher efficiency than that of the He–Xe gas mixture, which results in the improved efficacy of lamp. This result was due to the emission properties that were improved by the potential energy transferred from the excited Kr to the Xe.
Zinc Plasma Emission from Zinc Oxide Ceramics under a Microwave Electric Field
Authors: Sonobe Taro , Mitani Tomohiko , Hachiya Kan , Shinohara Naoki , Ohgaki Hideaki
Published: August 2010

We studied the effects of microwave irradiation on ZnO ceramics under vacuum to clarify the emission of zinc and oxygen plasmas from ZnO, while simultaneously focusing on the material's optical properties. We observed the emission of zinc and oxygen plasmas during intense absorption of microwaves as well as the deposition of zinc and zinc oxide films. Absorption coefficient and photoluminescence spectra suggest that zinc and oxygen plasmas were produced from grain surfaces of ZnO by microwave irradiation under vacuum, a phenomenon which was observed in a previous study on TiO2[Jpn. J. Appl. Phys. 48 (2009) 116003].
Cowpea mosaicVirus: The Plant Virus–Based Biotechnology Workhorse
Authors: Sainsbury Frank , Cañizares M. Carmen , Lomonossoff George P.
Published: August 2010

In the 50 years since it was first described, Cowpea mosaic virus (CPMV) has become one of the most intensely studied plant viruses. Research in the past 15 to 20 years has shifted from studying the underlying genetics and structure of the virus to focusing on ways in which it can be exploited in biotechnology. This work led first to the use of virus particles to present peptides, then to the creation of a variety of replicating virus vectors and finally to the development of a highly efficient protein expression system that does not require viral replication. The circle has been completed by the use of the latter system to create empty particles for peptide presentation and other novel uses. The history of CPMV in biotechnology can be likened to an Ouroborus, an ancient symbol depicting a snake or dragon swallowing its own tail, thus forming a circle.
Companion Cropping to Manage Parasitic Plants
Authors: Pickett John A. , Hamilton Mary L. , Hooper Antony M. , Khan Zeyaur R. , Midega Charles A.O.
Published: August 2010

Parasitic plants, through a range of infestation strategies, can attack crop plants and thereby require management. Because such problems often occur in resource-poor farming systems, companion cropping to manage parasitic plants is an appropriate approach. Many examples of companion cropping for this purpose have been reported, but the use of cattle forage legumes in the genus Desmodium as intercrops has been shown to be particularly successful in controlling the parasitic witchweeds (Striga spp.) that afflict approximately one quarter of sub-Saharan African cereal production. Through the use of this example, the development of effective companion crops is described, together with developments toward widespread adoption and understanding the underlying mechanisms, both for sustainability and ensuring food security, and also for exploitation beyond the cropping systems described here.
Principles of Predicting Plant Virus Disease Epidemics
Authors: Jones Roger A.C. , Salam Moin U. , Maling Timothy J. , Diggle Arthur J. , Thackray Deborah J.
Published: August 2010

Predicting epidemics of plant virus disease constitutes a challenging undertaking due to the complexity of the three-cornered pathosystems (virus, vector, and host) involved and their interactions with the environment. A complicated nomenclature is used to describe virus epidemiological models. This review explains how the nomenclature evolved and provides a historical account of the development of such models. The process and steps involved in devising models that incorporate weather variables and data retrieval and are able to forecast plant virus epidemics effectively are explained. Their application to provide user-friendly, Internet-based decision support systems (DSSs) that determine when and where control measures are needed is described. Finally, case studies are provided of eight pathosystems representing different scenarios in which modeling approaches have been used with varying degrees of effectiveness to forecast virus epidemics in parts of the world with temperate, Mediterranean, subtropical, and tropical climates.
Plant Pathology: A Story About Biology
Authors: Gordon Thomas R. , Leveau Johan H.J.
Published: August 2010

Disease is a universal feature of life for multicellular organisms, and the study of disease has contributed to the establishment of key concepts in the biological sciences. This implies strong connections between plant pathology and basic biology, something that could perhaps be made more apparent to undergraduate students interested in the life sciences. To that end, we present an instructional narrative that begins with a simple question: Why are there diseases? Responses and follow-up questions can facilitate exploration of such topics as the evolution of parasitism, plant adaptations to parasitism, impacts of parasites on native plant communities, and ways in which human intervention can foster the emergence of aggressive plant pathogens. This approach may help to attract students who would not have found their way to plant pathology through traditional pathways. Packaging the narrative as a game may render it more interesting and accessible, particularly to a younger audience.
Microfibrils and fibrillin-1 induce integrin-mediated signaling, proliferation and migration in human endothelial cells
Authors: Mariko Boubacar , Ghandour Zeinab , Raveaud Stéphanie , Quentin Mickaël , Usson Yves , Verdetti Jean , Huber Philippe , Kielty Cay , Faury Gilles
Published: August 2010

Microfibrils are macromolecular complexes associated with elastin to form elastic fibers that endow extensible tissues, such as arteries, lungs, and skin, with elasticity property. Fibrillin-1, the main component of microfibrils, is a 350-kDa glycoprotein for which genetic haploinsufficiency in humans can lead to Marfan syndrome, a severe polyfeatured pathology including aortic aneurysms and dissections. Microfibrils and fibrillin-1 fragments mediate adhesion of several cell types, including endothelial cells, while fibrillin-1 additionally triggers lung and mesangial cell migration. However, fibrillin-1-induced intracellular signaling is unknown. We have studied the signaling events induced in human umbilical venous endothelial cells (HUVECs) by aortic microfibrils as well as recombinant fibrillin-1 Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD)-containing fragments PF9 and PF14. Aortic microfibrils and PF14, not PF9, substantially and dose dependently increased HUVEC cytoplasmic and nuclear calcium levels measured using the fluorescent dye Fluo-3. This effect of PF14 was confirmed in bovine aortic endothelial cells. PF14 action in HUVECs was mediated by αvβ3 and α5β1 integrins, phospholipase-C, inosital 1,4,5-trisphosphate, and mobilization of intracellular calcium stores, whereas membrane calcium channels were not or only slightly implicated, as shown in patch-clamp experiments. Finally, PF14 enhanced endothelial cell proliferation and migration. Hence, fibrillin-1 sequences may physiologically activate endothelial cells. Genetic fibrillin-1 deficiency could alter normal endothelial signaling and, since endothelium dysfunction is an important contributor to Marfan syndrome, participate in the arterial anomalies associated with this developmental disease.
Characterization of hTERT-immortalized osteoblast cell lines generated from wild-type and connexin43-null mouse calvaria
Authors: Thi Mia M. , Urban-Maldonado Marcia , Spray David C. , Suadicani Sylvia O.
Published: August 2010

The gap junction protein connexin43 (Cx43) has been proposed to play key roles in bone differentiation and mineralization, but underlying cellular mechanisms are not totally understood. To further explore roles of Cx43 in these processes, we immortalized calvarial osteoblasts from wild-type and Cx43-null mice using human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT). Osteoblastic (MOB) cell lines were generated from three individual wild-type and three individual Cx43-null mouse calvaria. Average population doubling times of the cell lines were higher than of the primary osteoblasts but did not greatly differ with regard to genotype. Modest to high level of Cx45 expression was detected in MOBs of both genotypes. Most of the cell lines expressed osteoblastic markers [Type I collagen, osteopontin, osteocalcin, parathyroid hormone/parathyroid hormone-related peptide receptor (PTH/PTHrP), periostin (OSF-2), osterix (Osx), runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), alkaline phosphatase (ALP)], and mineralization was comparable to that of primary osteoblasts. Two MOB cell lines from each genotype with most robust maintenance of osteoblast lineage markers were analyzed in greater detail, revealing that the Cx43-null cell lines showed a significant delay in early differentiation (up to 9 days in culture). Matrix mineralization was markedly delayed in one of the Cx43-null lines and slightly delayed in the other. These findings comparing new and very stable wild-type and Cx43-null osteoblastic cell lines define a role for Cx43 in early differentiation and mineralization stages of osteoblasts and further support the concept that Cx43 plays important role in the cellular processes associated with skeleton function.
Nicotine worsens the severity of nephropathy in diabetic mice: implications for the progression of kidney disease in smokers
Authors: Hua Ping , Feng Wenguang , Ji Shaonin , Raij Leopoldo , Jaimes Edgar A.
Published: August 2010

Epidemiological studies have established the role of cigarette smoking as a risk factor in the progression of chronic kidney disease, including diabetic nephropathy. We have previously reported that nicotine promotes mesangial cell proliferation and hypertrophy via activation of nonneuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and that nicotine worsens renal injury in a model of acute glomerulonephritis (Jaimes E, Tian RX, Raij L. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 292: H76–H82, 2007; Jaimes EA, Tian RX, Joshi M, Raij L. Am J Nephrol 29: 319–326, 2009). These studies were designed to test the hypothesis that nicotine worsens renal injury in db/db mice, a well-established model of diabetic nephropathy, and that reactive oxygen species play an important as mediators of these effects. For these studies, nicotine (100 μg/ml) was administered in the drinking water to control and db/db mice for 10 wk. Blood pressure was measured by the tail-cuff method, and urine was collected for proteinuria. At death, kidneys were collected for histology and molecular biology. The administration of nicotine did not result in significant changes in blood pressure or blood glucose and resulted in cotinine levels similar to those found in the plasma of smokers. In diabetic mice, the administration of nicotine significantly increased urinary protein excretion (1-fold), glomerular hypertrophy, and mesangial area (∼20%). These changes were accompanied by significant increases in NADPH oxidase 4 (∼30%) and increased nitrotyrosine and Akt expression. In vitro, we determined that nicotine has additive effects to high glucose on reactive oxygen species generation and Akt phosphorylation in human mesangial cells. These findings unveil novel mechanisms that may result in the development of novel strategies in the treatment and prevention of diabetic nephropathy in smokers.
The relationship between cardiac output and dynamic cerebral autoregulation in humans
Authors: Deegan B. M. , Devine E. R. , Geraghty M. C. , Jones E. , ÓLaighin G. , Serrador J. M.
Published: August 2010

Cerebral autoregulation adjusts cerebrovascular resistance in the face of changing perfusion pressures to maintain relatively constant flow. Results from several studies suggest that cardiac output may also play a role. We tested the hypothesis that cerebral blood flow would autoregulate independent of changes in cardiac output. Transient systemic hypotension was induced by thigh-cuff deflation in 19 healthy volunteers (7 women) in both supine and seated positions. Mean arterial pressure (Finapres), cerebral blood flow (transcranial Doppler) in the anterior (ACA) and middle cerebral artery (MCA), beat-by-beat cardiac output (echocardiography), and end-tidal Pco2 were measured. Autoregulation was assessed using the autoregulatory index (ARI) defined by Tiecks et al. (Tiecks FP, Lam AM, Aaslid R, Newell DW. Stroke 26: 1014–1019, 1995). Cerebral autoregulation was better in the supine position in both the ACA [supine ARI: 5.0 ± 0.21 (mean ± SE), seated ARI: 3.9 ± 0.4, P = 0.01] and MCA (supine ARI: 5.0 ± 0.2, seated ARI: 3.8 ± 0.3, P = 0.004). In contrast, cardiac output responses were not different between positions and did not correlate with cerebral blood flow ARIs. In addition, women had better autoregulation in the ACA ( P = 0.046), but not the MCA, despite having the same cardiac output response. These data demonstrate cardiac output does not appear to affect the dynamic cerebral autoregulatory response to sudden hypotension in healthy controls, regardless of posture. These results also highlight the importance of considering sex when studying cerebral autoregulation.
Coding of Stimuli by Ampullary Afferents inGnathonemus petersii
Authors: Engelmann J. , Gertz S. , Goulet J. , Schuh A. , von der Emde G.
Published: August 2010

Weakly electric fish use electroreception for both active and passive electrolocation and for electrocommunication. While both active and passive electrolocation systems are prominent in weakly electric Mormyriform fishes, knowledge of their passive electrolocation ability is still scarce. To better estimate the contribution of passive electric sensing to the orientation toward electric stimuli in weakly electric fishes, we investigated frequency tuning applying classical input-output characterization and stimulus reconstruction methods to reveal the encoding capabilities of ampullary receptor afferents. Ampullary receptor afferents were most sensitive (threshold: 40 μV/cm) at low frequencies (<10 Hz) and appear to be tuned to a mix of amplitude and slope of the input signals. The low-frequency tuning was corroborated by behavioral experiments, but behavioral thresholds were one order of magnitude higher. The integration of simultaneously recorded afferents of similar frequency-tuning resulted in strongly enhanced signal-to-noise ratios and increased mutual information rates but did not increase the range of frequencies detectable by the system. Theoretically the neuronal integration of input from receptors experiencing opposite polarities of a stimulus (left and right side of the fish) was shown to enhance encoding of such stimuli, including an increase of bandwidth. Covariance and coherence analysis showed that spiking of ampullary afferents is sufficiently explained by the spike-triggered average, i.e., receptors respond to a single linear feature of the stimulus. Our data support the notion of a division of labor of the active and passive electrosensory systems in weakly electric fishes based on frequency tuning. Future experiments will address the role of central convergence of ampullary input that we expect to lead to higher sensitivity and encoding power of the system.
Vascular Alterations and Sexual Function in Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Impens Ann Julie , Seibold James R.
Published: August 2010

Sexual dysfunction is common in systemic sclerosis (SSc). Male erectile dysfunction (MED) has been reported in around 80% of subjects and more than half of female patients fulfill criteria for diagnosis as female sexual arousal Disorder (FSAD). While some evidence supports a role for cavernosal fibrosis, abundant data suggest that MED is yet another clinical feature of SSc related to vasculopathy. The contribution of vasculopathy to the more complex issues of female sexual dysfunction is less clear. Inhibitors of Type V phosphodiesterase are effective in men with MED secondary to SSc. Limited study in women suggests inconsistent effects on behavior (frequency) but not on measures related to perfusion. Sexual activity is an important component of quality of life and an important domain for the caregiver to address; it is not clear that it warrants primary consideration as a consistent measure of scleroderma-related vasculopathy.
Mann Type Implicit Iteration Approximation for Multivalued Mappings in Banach Spaces
Authors: He Huimin , Liu Sanyang , Chen Rudong
Published: August 2010

Let "Equation missing" be a nonempty compact convex subset of a uniformly convex Banach space "Equation missing" and let"Equation missing" be a multivalued nonexpansive mapping. For the implicit iterates "Equation missing", "Equation missing", "Equation missing", "Equation missing". We proved that "Equation missing" converges strongly to a fixed point of "Equation missing" under some suitable conditions. Our results extended corresponding ones and revised a gap in the work of Panyanak (2007).
Persistent CSF Rhinorrhoea, Pneumocephalus, and Recurrent Meningitis Following Misdiagnosis of Olfactory Neuroblastoma
Authors: Barua Neil , Hilton David A. , Mukonoweshuro William , Khalil Hisham , Pobereskin Louis
Published: August 2010

A 41-year-old female patient was admitted with streptococcal meningitis on a background of 5-month history of CSF rhinorrhoea. Imaging revealed an extensive skull base lesion involving the sphenoid and ethmoid sinuses, the pituitary fossa with suprasellar extension and bony destruction. Histological examination of an endonasal transethmoidal biopsy suggested a diagnosis of olfactory neuroblastoma. A profuse CSF leak occurred and the patient developed coliform meningitis. A second endonasal endoscopic biopsy was undertaken which demonstrated the tumour to be a prolactinoma. Following endonasal repair of the CSF leak and lumbar drainage, she developed profound pneumocephalus. The patient underwent three further unsuccessful CSF leak repairs. Definitive control of the CSF leak was finally achieved through a transcranial approach with prolonged lumbar drainage. This case illustrates some of the potentially devastating complications which can occur as a consequence of complex skull base lesions. A multidisciplinary approach may be required to successfully manage such cases.
Internal Friction on AISI 304 Stainless Steels with Low Tensile Deformations at Temperatures between−50 and 20C
Authors: Santos T. F. A. , Andrade M. S.
Published: August 2010

Austenitic stainless steels specimens were deformed by tension in temperatures in the range of−50Cto 20Cand 0.03 to 0.12 true strain, in order to obtain different volumetric fractions ofε(hexagonal close packed) andα′(body centered cubic) strain induced martensites. The morphology, distribution and volumetric fractions of the martensites were characterized by metallography and dilatometry analysis and quantified by ferrite detector measurements. The damping behavior of specimens with different volumetric fractions of martensites was studied in an inverted torsion pendulum in the 40Cto 400Crange. Theε- andα′-martensites reversion was observed in the temperature range of 50C–200Cand 500C–800C, respectively, by dilatometry. Internal friction curves in function of temperature of the deformed samples presented internal friction peaks. The first internal friction peak is related to sum of the amount ofε- andα′-martensites. For low deformations it aligns around 130Cand it is related only to theε→γreverse transformation. The peak situated around 350Cincreases with the specimen degree of deformation and is, probably, related to the presence ofα′/γinterfaces, and deformed austenite.
Toll-Like Receptors in Hepatic Ischemia/Reperfusion and Transplantation
Authors: Evankovich John , Billiar Timothy , Tsung Allan
Published: August 2010

The family of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) function as pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs) that respond to a myriad of highly conserved ligands. These substrates include pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) for the recognition of invading pathogens, as well as damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) for the recognition of endogenous tissue injury. While the functions of TLRs are diverse, they have received much attention for their roles in ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury of the liver and other organs. The TLRs play central roles in sensing tissue damage and activating the innate immune system following I/R. Engagement of TLRs by endogenous DAMPs activates proinflammatory signaling pathways leading to the production of cytokines, chemokines and further release of endogenous danger signals. This paper focuses on the most recent findings regarding TLR family members in hepatic I/R injury and transplantation.
Comparison of Four Polymerase Chain Reaction Methods for the Rapid Detection of Human Fecal Pollution in Marine and Inland Waters
Authors: Bachoon Dave S. , Miller Cortney M. , Green Christen P. , Otero Ernesto
Published: August 2010

We compared the effectiveness of three PCR protocols for the detection ofBifidobacterium adolescentisand one PCR protocol for detectingBacteroidalesas indicators of human fecal pollution in environmental samples. Quantitative PCR indicated that a higher concentration ofB. adolescentisDNA was recovered from sewage samples on the 0.2 μm filters compared to the 0.45 μm filters, and there was no evidence of qPCR inhibitors in the DNA extracts. With the Matsuki method (1999),B. adolescentiswas detected only in undiluted sewage samples. The King method (2007) performed well and detectedB. adolescentisin all of the sewage dilutions (from undiluted to10−4). In contrast, the Bonjoch approach (2004) was effective at detectingB. adolescentisat lower dilutions (10−3) of sewage samples and it gave false positive results with some (3/8) pig fecal samples. Human-specificBacteroidales(HuBacs) were detected in the lower diluents of sewage samples but was positive in pig (6/8) and cattle fecal samples. PCR detection ofB. adolescentisin marine samples from Puerto Rico and freshwater samples from Georgia indicated that the PCR method of King et al. (2007) and the modified Layton method for HuBac were in agreement in detecting human fecal pollution in most sites.
Redox Responses in Patients with Sepsis: High Correlation of Thioredoxin-1 and Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor Plasma Levels
Authors: Brenner Thorsten , Rosenhagen Claudia , Steppan Jochen , Lichtenstern Christoph , Weitz Jürgen , Bruckner Thomas , Martin Eike O. , Hoffmann Ursula , Weigand Markus A. , Hofer Stefan
Published: August 2010

Background. Redox active substances (e.g., Thioredoxin-1, Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor) seem to be central hubs in the septic inflammatory process.Materials and Methods. Blood samples from patients with severe sepsis or septic shock (n=15) were collected at the time of sepsis diagnosis (t0), and 24 (t24) and 48 (t48) hours later; samples from healthy volunteers (n=18) were collected once; samples from postoperative patients (n=28) were taken one time immediately after surgery. In all patients, we measured plasma levels of IL-6, TRX1 and MIF.Results. The plasma levels of MIF and TRX1 were significantly elevated in patients with severe sepsis or septic shock. Furthermore, TRX1 and MIF plasma levels showed a strong correlation (t0:rsp=0.720,ρ=0.698/t24:rsp=0.771,ρ=0.949).Conclusions. Proinflammatory/~oxidative and anti-inflammatory/~oxidative agents show a high correlation in order to maintain a redox homeostasis and to avoid the harmful effects of an excessive inflammatory/oxidative response.
Health-Related Quality of Life of Children with Specific Language Impairment Aged 8–11
Authors: Arkkila E. , Räsänen P. , Roine R.P. , Sintonen H. , Saar V. , Vilkman E.
Published: August 2010

Objective: To evaluate, in a clinical sample of children with a diagnosis of specific language impairment (SLI), the health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Subjects and Methods: Fifty-five children, aged 8–11 years, filled out a generic HRQoL questionnaire, 17D, and another questionnaire about school and rehabilitation. The HRQoL comparison group was a sample of 244 typically developing schoolchildren. Results: Response rate was 86%. Of the respondents, 80% were male. The total 17D score of the subjects did not differ from that of controls. The 17D profiles of the groups differed on several dimensions, but significant differences emerged only on the dimensions concerning speech, where the study group was worse off, and sleep, where the controls reported more problems. Respondents with low verbal IQ reported more distress. The vast majority of respondents were in special education or received extra educational support and one-third were still having speech therapy. Conclusion: In this clinical sample, despite the persisting need for extra support, the overall well-being of children with SLI was at age level. Still, some differences existed, and HRQoL measurement may prove a good tool for professionals to find those children with SLI at risk for diminished well-being and for later problems.
Epigenome Mapping in Normal and Disease States
Authors: Maunakea Alika K. , Chepelev Iouri , Zhao Keji
Published: August 2010

Abstract:

Epigenomes are comprised, in part, of all genome-wide chromatin modifications, including DNA methylation and histone modifications. Unlike the genome, epigenomes are dynamic during development and differentiation to establish and maintain cell type–specific gene expression states that underlie cellular identity and function. Chromatin modifications are particularly labile, providing a mechanism for organisms to respond and adapt to environmental cues. Results from studies in animal models clearly demonstrate that epigenomic variability leads to phenotypic variability, including susceptibility to disease that is not recognized at the DNA sequence level. Thus, capturing epigenomic information is invaluable for comprehensively understanding development, differentiation, and disease. Herein, we provide a brief overview of epigenetic processes, how they are relevant to human health, and review studies using technologies that enable epigenome mapping. We conclude by describing feasible applications of epigenome mapping, focusing on epigenome-wide association studies (eGWAS), which have the potential to revolutionize current studies of human diseases and will likely promote the discovery of novel diagnostic, preventative, and treatment strategies.
Low Birth Weight, Preschool Education, and School Remediation
Authors: Temple Judy A. , Reynolds Arthur J. , Arteaga Irma
Published: August 2010

Studies have documented a strong relationship between low birth-weight status and adverse child outcomes such as poor school performance and need for special education services. Following a cohort of more than 1,300 low-income and predominately African American children in the Chicago Longitudinal Study, the authors investigate whether birth weight and family socioeconomic risk measured at the time of the child’s birth predicts placement into special education classes or grade retention in elementary school. Contrary to previous research, the authors find that low birth weight (<5.5 pounds) does not predict special education placement. Rather, these children (especially boys) are more likely to be retained in grade as an alternative approach in addressing poor school performance. Family socioeconomic risk at birth is a significant predictor of the need for remedial services. The authors also assess whether a high-quality preschool program offered at the ages between 3 and 4 can reduce the negative effects of low family socioeconomic status and birth weight on the need for special education and grade retention. Preschool participation in the Child—Parent Centers is found to reduce the likelihood of school remediation. The effects of preschool are greater for children from families with higher levels of socioeconomic disadvantage. The beneficial effects of preschool on special education placement are also larger for boys than for girls.
Anatomy of a Regional Conflict
Authors: Humphreys Bebbington Denise , Bebbington Anthony
Published: August 2010

In 2008, the Department of Tarija became the epicenter of national political struggles over political autonomy for lowland regions at odds with the Morales administration. In September, following a series of regional referenda on autonomy and a national recall election, citizen committees in Tarija mobilized urban-based sectors and organized a general strike against the central government. It is unhelpful to understand the strike as simply an act of political sabotage orchestrated by racist regional elites. The factors driving protest and interest in autonomy are varied and deeply related to patterns of hydrocarbons extraction in the department that have allowed for the mobilization of grievances and the cultivation of resource regionalism at departmental and intradepartmental scales. Alongside class and ethnicity, identities of place and region can be equally important in processes of mobilization, and the resonance of these spatialized identities is particularly important in resource-extraction peripheries.
Savina Cuéllar and Bolivia’s New Regionalism
Authors: Centellas Miguel
Published: August 2010

The social forces that brought Evo Morales to power reshaped the dynamics of politics in Bolivia. Although partly driven by ethnic or socioeconomic differences, regional movements have support beyond a narrow elite base and reflect changes in Bolivia’s political landscape stemming from 1990s political reforms, older historical legacies, and recent political developments. The June 2008 election of Savina Cuéllar, an indigenous woman, as prefect of Chuquisaca highlights the complex and evolving nature of political identities. Identities constructed on the basis of regional claims are as important as—and analytically distinct from—identities constructed on the basis of ethnicity or socioeconomic class and challenge our preconceptions of politics in contemporary Bolivia.
Social Control
Authors: Farthing Linda , Kohl Benjamin
Published: August 2010

When the indigenous coca grower Evo Morales was elected president in Bolivia in 2005, he promised to fundamentally change 25 years of the U.S.-funded and dictated “drug war.” The new policy values the coca leaf and relies on local organizations to control coca production within limits set by the government. A review of its successes and limitations to date suggests that Bolivia’s experience may offer lessons for drug control in other parts of the hemisphere.