bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of oral exposure to fenitrothion and 3-methyl-4-nitrophenol on splenic cell populations and histopathological alterations in spleen in Wistar rats
Authors: Li Q  , Kobayashi Maiko , Inagaki Hirofumi , Hirata Yukiyo , Sato Shigeru , Ishizaki Masamichi , Okamura Ai , Dong Wang  , Nakajima Tamie , Kamijima Michihiro , Kawada Tomoyuki
Published: July 2010

Fenitrothion (FNT) is used throughout the world as an insecticide in agriculture. To investigate the effect of FNT on the splenocytes and the underlying mechanism, FNT and its main metabolite, 3-methyl-4-nitrophenol (MNP), were administered orally to Wistar rats in daily doses of 0, 5 and 10 mg/kg, 4-5 days/week for 9 weeks. Splenocytes were harvested from control and exposed rats, and the following cell phenotypes were quantified by flow cytometry: (1) B cells (PE-CD45RA), (2) T cells (FITC-CD3), (3) T cell subsets (PE-CD4 and PerCPCD8), (4) natural killer (NK) cells (FITC-CD161a), (5) macrophages (FITC-CD11b), and (6) granulocyte (PE-granulocyte). Body weight, weight of the spleen, and histopathological alterations of spleens were also examined. The percentage of splenic CD8+ T cells and the ratio of CD8/CD4 in the group receiving 10 mg/kg FNT, and the percentages of splenic CD3+ and CD8+ T cells in the group receiving 10 mg/kg MNP were significantly decreased compared with those in the controls. FNT exposure also significantly decreased the weight of the spleen and body weight. In addition, apoptotic lymphocytes in spleen were observed in FNT-exposed rats under transmission electron microscope. However, FNT and MNP exposures did not affect splenic NK cells, B cells, macrophages, and granulocytes. The above findings indicate that FNT and MNP may selectively affect splenic T cells in rats.
Initial Development and Validation of the Global Citizenship Scale
Authors: Morais Duarte B. , Ogden Anthony C.
Published: July 2010

The purpose of this article is to report on the initial development of a theoretically grounded and empirically validated scale to measure global citizenship. The methodology employed is multi-faceted, including two expert face validity trials, extensive exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses with multiple datasets, and a series of three small-group interviews utilizing nominal group technique to verify the scope of the global citizenship construct. The findings provide support for a three-dimensional Global Citizenship Scale that encompasses social responsibility, global competence, and global civic engagement. Global competence and global civic engagement are both strong dimensions of global citizenship, and each has three reliable subdimensions that add further refinement to the construct. Social responsibility proves to be a dimension of global citizenship with a less clearly defined structure. The Global Citizenship Scale and its conceptual framework have important implications for education abroad outcomes research and practice.
Early Colonic Perineurioma: A Report of 11 Cases
Authors: Groisman Gabriel , Amar Mary , Alona Meir
Published: July 2010

Colonic perineurioma has been depicted as characterized by a mucosal proliferation of monomorphic spindle perineurial cells leading to an evident separation, distortion, and entrapment of colonic crypts. The authors, however, believe that a sizable subset of the cases differ in that they display only a limited perineurial proliferation leading to only mild crypt separation without crypt entrapment. This morphological variant (early perineurioma) has not yet been documented. The authors herein present the clinicopathological and immunohistochemical features of 11 cases. Polyp size ranged from 2 to 4 mm, and 8 (73%) were located in the sigmoid. Histologically, they revealed small, frequently noncontiguous nests or bundles of uniform round to oval cells, causing slight separation of parallel or mildly distorted crypts, which displayed a serrated/hyperplastic architecture in 8 (73%) cases. Immunostaining for perineurial markers showed strong expression for claudin-1, GLUT-1, and collagen type IV and weak reactivity for epithelial membrane antigen. In conclusion, early perineurioma is a morphological variant of colonic perineurioma in which the perineurial proliferation is limited and consequently more difficult to recognize. Using perineurial markers is helpful in reaching an accurate diagnosis.
Impact of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors Administration Prior to Acute Ischemic Stroke Onset on In-Hospital Mortality
Authors: Hassan Yahaya , Aziz Noorizan Abd , Al-Jabi Samah W. , Looi Irene , Zyoud Sa'ed H.
Published: July 2010

Introduction: Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) have shown promising results in decreasing the incidence and the severity of ischemic stroke in populations at risk and in improving ischemic stroke outcomes. Objectives: The objectives of this study were to investigate the impact of ACEI use before ischemic stroke onset on in-hospital mortality and to identify the independent predictors of in-hospital mortality among patients with ischemic stroke. Methods and Materials: A retrospective cohort study of all patients with acute ischemic stroke attending the hospital from June 1, 2008 to November 30, 2008 was performed. Data were collected from medical records and included demographic information, diagnostic information, risk factors, previous ACEI use, and vital discharge status. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 15 was used for data analysis. Results: A total of 327 patients with acute ischemic stroke were studied, of which 119 (36.4%) had documented previous ACEI use. During the study period, 52 (15.9%) of the patients with acute ischemic stroke died in hospital. In-hospital mortality was significantly lower among patients who were on ACEI before the attack (P = 0.002). The independent predictors for in-hospital mortality among patients with ischemic stroke were age ≥65 years (P < .001), the presence of diabetes mellitus (P = .012), renal impairment (P = .002), and heart failure (P = .001). Moreover, prior use of ACEI was an independent predictor for survival after ischemic stroke attack (P < .001). Conclusion: This study provides evidence that the prophylactic administration of ACEI before ischemic stroke may be a potential life-saving strategy. Furthermore, knowledge of in-hospital mortality predictors is necessary to improve survival rate after acute stroke.
The Impact of a Non-adhesive Floating Installation Method on Emissions and Indoor Concentrations of VOCs
Authors: Dong Hee Choi  , Dong Hwa Kang  , Sun Sook Kim  , Myoung Souk Yeo  , Kwang Woo Kim
Published: July 2010

The effects of using a non-adhesive floating method for the installation of wallpaper and plywood flooring on emissions and indoor concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in full-scale test rooms were investigated. The emissions of VOCs from the wallpaper, plywood flooring, adhesives and composite materials were measured in a small-scale chamber. Toluene was the major VOC detected from the adhesives for both the wallpaper and plywood flooring. The thin and porous characteristics of wallpaper allowed a rapid emission of toluene from the adhesive applied on the wall composite materials; whereas, the thick and complex composition of the plywood flooring appeared to slow down the emission of toluene. The thickness and diffusion characteristics of the finishing materials can affect the appearance and emissions from the adhesive applied.
Deep vein thrombosis in major trauma
Authors: Matharu Gulraj S , Porter Keith M
Published: July 2010

Major trauma patients are at increased risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Certain injuries may be associated with an increased DVT risk, though definitive evidence regarding specific risk factors is lacking. The role of mechanical thromboprophylaxis in major trauma remains unclear and these methods are often contraindicated in lower limb injuries. Low molecular weight heparin is effective in reducing DVT frequency in major trauma with acceptable haemorrhagic complications. Evidence regarding the efficacy of thromboprophylaxis specifically in major trauma patients is lacking. However, recently published guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence appear to make recommendations based on findings in other patient populations rather than using the best available evidence in major trauma patients. Future studies must identify specific DVT risk factors in major trauma to allow accurate risk stratification, determine the time period patients remain at increased DVT risk and establish the role of combined thromboprophylaxis.
Virtual Fieldwork Using Access Grid
Authors: Fielding Nigel
Published: July 2010

This article discusses the use of Access Grid (AG)—a form of video teleconferencing delivered over computer networks—to perform fieldwork. Interviews and group discussions were conducted with students and criminal court judges at sites remote from the fieldworker. A concept of ‘‘engagement’’ was used to identify distinctive interactional features and provide a first insight into the AG as a fieldwork medium.
Is There a Connection Between Diabetes and Psychological Dysfunction?
Authors: Terre Lisa
Published: July 2010

This review discusses evidence-based perspectives on the relationship between diabetes and psychological distress. Future directions for inquiry and clinical management also are addressed.
Unusual Presentation of Bizarre Parosteal Osteochondromatous Lesion of the Second Toe (Nora’s Lesion)
Authors: Singh Roop , Jain Mantu , Siwach Ramchander , Rajesh Kumar Rohilla  , Kaur Kiranpreet
Published: July 2010

Bizarre parosteal osteochondromatous proliferation (BPOP) of bone is a rare benign neoplasm. This report presents the first case of BPOP associated with gangrenous changes and ulceration after remaining symptomless for 20 years. The authors hypothesize that the cause of gangrene may be attributed either to vascular occlusion due to pressure, trauma, or malignant transformation of the lesion. Although local excision of the tumor is the treatment of choice, the authors resorted to ray excision, as gangrenous changes and ulceration were present and there was the possibility of malignant change.
Effect of Mo on microstructure and mechanical properties of bulk nanocrystalline Fe3Al materials prepared by aluminothermic reaction
Authors: La P Q , Lu X F , Yang Y , Wei Y P , Zhao Y , Cheng C J
Published: July 2010

Bulk nanocrystalline Fe3Al based materials with 5, 10 and 15 wt-Mo were prepared by aluminothermic reaction. The microstructure and mechanical properties of the materials were investigated. It was shown that the materials consisted of a nanocrystalline matrix phase that was composed of Fe, Al and Mo and a little Al2O3 contamination phase. The nanocrystalline phase had a disordered bcc crystal structure. Average grain sizes of the nanocrystalline phase of the materials with 5, 10 and 15 wt-Mo were 19, 31 and 24 nm respectively and that of the material with 5 wt-Mo was the smallest. The materials with 10 and 15 wt-Mo exhibited brittle behaviour in compression, whereas the material with 5 wt-Mo had a large plastic deformation. The material with 5 wt-Mo had the highest bending strength and the lowest compressive yield strength.
Micrometre scale residual stress measurement in fusion boundary of dissimilar steel welded joints using nanoindenter system
Authors: Huang Y M , Li Y , He K , Pan C X
Published: July 2010

In the present paper, an approach for measuring the micrometre scale residual stress around the fusion boundary in dissimilar steel welded joints was introduced. An as welded joint and a post-weld heat treated joint were examined using a nanoindenter system. The results revealed that a compressive residual stress existed around the fusion boundary in a range 200 μm extending to the overheated heat affected zone (HAZ) and 300 μm to the weld metal, and the compressive stresses were reduced after post-weld heat treatment. The maximum compressive stress occurred in the fusion boundary and then dramatically decreased in the adjacent HAZ base metal and weld metal. In comparison with the regular approaches for macrometre scale measurement, the nanoindentation has the advantages of high resolution and precision for effectively evaluating the residual stresses in a narrow region. The measuring error was analysed.
Alternatively activated macrophages inhibit T-cell proliferation by Stat6-dependent expression of PD-L2
Authors: Huber Silke , Hoffmann Reinhard , Muskens Femke , Voehringer David
Published: July 2010

Alternatively activated macrophages (AAM) accumulate in tissues during Th2-associated immune responses like helminth infections and allergic disorders. These cells differentiate in response to interleukin 4 (IL-4)/IL-13–mediated activation of Stat6 and possess potent inhibitory activity against T cells. The molecular mechanism that leads to T-cell suppression remains unclear and could involve soluble factors or inhibitory ligands. Microarray analysis revealed that the inhibitory ligand, programmed death ligand 2 (PD-L2) was strongly induced by IL-4 in macrophages from wild-type but not Stat6-deficient mice. PD-L2 expression correlated with other established markers for AAM-like Relm-α/Fizz1, arginase1, or Ym1 and thereby serves as useful surface marker to identify and isolate AAM from tissues. Antibodies against PD-L2 blocked the inhibitory activity of AAM and retroviral expression of PD-L2 in macrophages from Stat6−/− mice was sufficient to inhibit T-cell proliferation, which demonstrates that PD-L2 mediates potent and nonredundant inhibition of T cells independently of other Stat6-regulated genes. Infection of conditional IL-4/IL-13–deficient mice with the helminth Nippostrongylus brasiliensis further showed that PD-L2 expression was dependent on IL-4/IL-13 from Th2 cells. In vivo blockade of PD-L2 during N brasiliensis infection caused an enhanced Th2 response in the lung, indicating that AAM inhibit Th2 cells by expression of PD-L2.
Antiphospholipid-associated thrombocytopenia or autoimmune hemolytic anemia in patients with or without definite primary antiphospholipid syndrome according to the Sapporo revised classification criteria: a 6-year follow-up study
Authors: Comellas-Kirkerup Lucía , Hernández-Molina Gabriela , Cabral Antonio R.
Published: July 2010

The updated Sapporo classification criteria for antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) only include thrombosis or pregnancy morbidity as clinical criteria. To test this notion, we studied 55 patients (80% women) with hematologic manifestations. All fulfilled the laboratory criteria for primary APS. Thirty-five patients (64%) had thrombocytopenia, 14 (25%) had autoimmune hemolytic anemia, and 6 (11%) had both. Twenty-five patients (22 women, 88%) also fulfilled one clinical criterion for APS after a median follow-up of 13.2 years (range, 1.45-37 years), whereas the remaining 30 patients (22 women, 73%) have not had any thrombotic event nor pregnancy morbidity after a median follow-up of 5.4 years (range, 0.12-24 years). No patient developed systemic lupus erythematosus during follow-up. The hematologic manifestation was asynchronous with the APS onset in 84% of patients. The response to treatment was similar regardless of the APS status. Patients with definite APS were more frequently positive for the lupus anticoagulant (63%) than lupus anticoagulant-positive patients without APS (30%; odds ratio, 3.5; 95% confidence interval, 1.07-11.4; P < .02). Anticardiolipin or anti–β2-glycoprotein-I antibodies were highly prevalent among the study groups. Our study suggests that, depending upon their antiphospholipid profile, patients with hemocytopenias appear to comprise a peculiar subset of patients with APS; some develop thrombotic and/or obstetric APS whereas others continue with hematologic APS.
Conservation of ParaHox genes' function in patterning of the digestive tract of the marine gastropod Gibbula varia
Authors: Samadi Leyli , Steiner Gerhard
Published: July 2010

Background

Presence of all three ParaHox genes has been described in deuterostomes and lophotrochozoans, but to date one of these three genes, Xlox has not been reported from any ecdysozoan taxa and both Xlox and Gsx are absent in nematodes. There is evidence that the ParaHox genes were ancestrally a single chromosomal cluster. Colinear expression of the ParaHox genes in anterior, middle, and posterior tissues of several species studied so far suggest that these genes may be responsible for axial patterning of the digestive tract. So far, there are no data on expression of these genes in molluscs.

Results

We isolated the complete coding sequences of the three Gibbula varia ParaHox genes, and then tested their expression in larval and postlarval development. In Gibbula varia, the ParaHox genes participate in patterning of the digestive tract and are expressed in some cells of the neuroectoderm. The expression of these genes coincides with the gradual formation of the gut in the larva. Gva-Gsx patterns potential neural precursors of cerebral ganglia as well as of the apical sensory organ. During larval development this gene is involved in the formation of the mouth and during postlarval development it is expressed in the precursor cells involved in secretion of the radula, the odontoblasts. Gva-Xolx and Gva-Cdx are involved in gut patterning in the middle and posterior parts of digestive tract, respectively. Both genes are expressed in some ventral neuroectodermal cells; however the expression of Gva-Cdx fades in later larval stages while the expression of Gva-Xolx in these cells persists.

Conclusions

In Gibbula varia the ParaHox genes are expressed during anterior-posterior patterning of the digestive system. This colinearity is not easy to spot during early larval stages because the differentiated endothelial cells within the yolk permanently migrate to their destinations in the gut. After torsion, Gsx patterns the mouth and foregut, Xlox the midgut gland or digestive gland, and Cdx the hindgut. ParaHox genes of Gibbula are also expressed during specification of cerebral and ventral neuroectodermal cells. Our results provide additional support for the ancestral complexity of Gsx expression and its ancestral role in mouth patterning in protostomes, which was secondarily lost or simplified in some species.
High variability in a mating type linked region in the dry rot fungus Serpula lacrymans caused by frequency-dependent selection?
Authors: Engh Ingeborg Bjorvand , Skrede Inger , Sætre Glenn-Peter , Kauserud Håvard
Published: July 2010

Background

The mating type loci that govern the mating process in fungi are thought to be influenced by negative frequency-dependent selection due to rare allele advantage. In this study we used a mating type linked DNA marker as a proxy to indirectly study the allelic richness and geographic distribution of mating types of one mating type locus (MAT A) in worldwide populations of the dry rot fungus Serpula lacrymans. This fungus, which causes serious destruction to wooden constructions in temperate regions worldwide, has recently expanded its geographic range with a concomitant genetic bottleneck.

Results

High allelic richness and molecular variation was detected in the mating type linked marker as compared to other presumably neutral markers. Comparable amounts of genetic variation appeared in the mating type linked marker in populations from nature and buildings, which contrast the pattern observed with neutral genetic markers where natural populations were far more variable. Some geographic structuring of the allelic variation in the mating type linked marker appeared, but far less than that observed with neutral markers. In founder populations of S. lacrymans, alleles co-occurring in heterokaryotic individuals were more divergent than expected by chance, which agrees with the expectation for populations where few mating alleles exists. The analyzed DNA marker displays trans-species polymorphism wherein some alleles from the closely related species S. himantoides are more similar to those of S. lacrymans than other alleles from S. himantoides.

Conclusions

Our results support the idea that strong negative frequency-dependent selection maintains high levels of genetic variation in MAT-linked genomic regions, even in recently bottlenecked populations of S. lacrymans.
Analysis of expressed sequence tags from Prunus mume flower and fruit and development of simple sequence repeat markers
Authors: Li Xiaoying , Shangguan Lingfei , Song Changnian , Wang Chen , Gao Zhihong , Yu Huaping , Fang Jinggui
Published: July 2010

Background

Expressed Sequence Tag (EST) has been a cost-effective tool in molecular biology and represents an abundant valuable resource for genome annotation, gene expression, and comparative genomics in plants.

Results

In this study, we constructed a cDNA library of Prunus mume flower and fruit, sequenced 10,123 clones of the library, and obtained 8,656 expressed sequence tag (EST) sequences with high quality. The ESTs were assembled into 4,473 unigenes composed of 1,492 contigs and 2,981 singletons and that have been deposited in NCBI (accession IDs: GW868575 - GW873047), among which 1,294 unique ESTs were with known or putative functions. Furthermore, we found 1,233 putative simple sequence repeats (SSRs) in the P. mume unigene dataset. We randomly tested 42 pairs of PCR primers flanking potential SSRs, and 14 pairs were identified as true-to-type SSR loci and could amplify polymorphic bands from 20 individual plants of P. mume. We further used the 14 EST-SSR primer pairs to test the transferability on peach and plum. The result showed that nearly 89% of the primer pairs produced target PCR bands in the two species. A high level of marker polymorphism was observed in the plum species (65%) and low in the peach (46%), and the clustering analysis of the three species indicated that these SSR markers were useful in the evaluation of genetic relationships and diversity between and within the Prunus species.

Conclusions

We have constructed the first cDNA library of P. mume flower and fruit, and our data provide sets of molecular biology resources for P. mume and other Prunus species. These resources will be useful for further study such as genome annotation, new gene discovery, gene functional analysis, molecular breeding, evolution and comparative genomics between Prunus species.
Sequencing, annotation, and comparative genome analysis of the gerbil-adapted Helicobacter pylori strain B8
Authors: Farnbacher Max , Jahns Thomas , Willrodt Dirk , Daniel Rolf , Haas Rainer , Goesmann Alexander , Kurtz Stefan , Rieder Gabriele
Published: July 2010

Background

The Mongolian gerbils are a good model to mimic the Helicobacter pylori-associated pathogenesis of the human stomach. In the current study the gerbil-adapted strain B8 was completely sequenced, annotated and compared to previous genomes, including the 73 supercontigs of the parental strain B128.

Results

The complete genome of H. pylori B8 was manually curated gene by gene, to assign as much function as possible. It consists of a circular chromosome of 1,673,997 bp and of a small plasmid of 6,032 bp carrying nine putative genes. The chromosome contains 1,711 coding sequences, 293 of which are strain-specific, coding mainly for hypothetical proteins, and a large plasticity zone containing a putative type-IV-secretion system and coding sequences with unknown function. The cag-pathogenicity island is rearranged such that the cag A-gene is located 13,730 bp downstream of the inverted gene cluster cag B-cag 1. Directly adjacent to the cag A-gene, there are four hypothetical genes and one variable gene with a different codon usage compared to the rest of the H. pylori B8-genome. This indicates that these coding sequences might be acquired via horizontal gene transfer.

The genome comparison of strain B8 to its parental strain B128 delivers 425 unique B8-proteins. Due to the fact that strain B128 was not fully sequenced and only automatically annotated, only 12 of these proteins are definitive singletons that might have been acquired during the gerbil-adaptation process of strain B128.

Conclusion

Our sequence data and its analysis provide new insight into the high genetic diversity of H. pylori-strains. We have shown that the gerbil-adapted strain B8 has the potential to build, possibly by a high rate of mutation and recombination, a dynamic pool of genetic variants (e.g. fragmented genes and repetitive regions) required for the adaptation-processes. We hypothesize that these variants are essential for the colonization and persistence of strain B8 in the gerbil stomach during inflammation.
Deep sequencing discovery of novel and conserved microRNAs in trifoliate orange (Citrus trifoliata)
Authors: Song Changnian , Wang Chen , Zhang Changqing , Korir Nicholas Kibet , Yu Huaping , Ma Zhengqiang , Fang Jinggui
Published: July 2010

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a critical role in post-transcriptional gene regulation and have been shown to control many genes involved in various biological and metabolic processes. There have been extensive studies to discover miRNAs and analyze their functions in model plant species, such as Arabidopsis and rice. Deep sequencing technologies have facilitated identification of species-specific or lowly expressed as well as conserved or highly expressed miRNAs in plants.

Results

In this research, we used Solexa sequencing to discover new microRNAs in trifoliate orange (Citrus trifoliata) which is an important rootstock of citrus. A total of 13,106,753 reads representing 4,876,395 distinct sequences were obtained from a short RNA library generated from small RNA extracted from C. trifoliata flower and fruit tissues. Based on sequence similarity and hairpin structure prediction, we found that 156,639 reads representing 63 sequences from 42 highly conserved miRNA families, have perfect matches to known miRNAs. We also identified 10 novel miRNA candidates whose precursors were all potentially generated from citrus ESTs. In addition, five miRNA* sequences were also sequenced. These sequences had not been earlier described in other plant species and accumulation of the 10 novel miRNAs were confirmed by qRT-PCR analysis. Potential target genes were predicted for most conserved and novel miRNAs. Moreover, four target genes including one encoding IRX12 copper ion binding/oxidoreductase and three genes encoding NB-LRR disease resistance protein have been experimentally verified by detection of the miRNA-mediated mRNA cleavage in C. trifoliata.

Conclusion

Deep sequencing of short RNAs from C. trifoliata flowers and fruits identified 10 new potential miRNAs and 42 highly conserved miRNA families, indicating that specific miRNAs exist in C. trifoliata. These results show that regulatory miRNAs exist in agronomically important trifoliate orange and may play an important role in citrus growth, development, and response to disease.
New adhesin functions of surface-exposed pneumococcal proteins
Authors: Frolet Cécile , Beniazza Meryam , Roux Laure , Gallet Benoit , Noirclerc-Savoye Marjolaine , Vernet Thierry , Di Guilmi Anne Marie
Published: July 2010

Background

Streptococcus pneumoniae is a widely distributed commensal Gram-positive bacteria of the upper respiratory tract. Pneumococcal colonization can progress to invasive disease, and thus become lethal, reason why antibiotics and vaccines are designed to limit the dramatic effects of the bacteria in such cases. As a consequence, pneumococcus has developed efficient antibiotic resistance, and the use of vaccines covering a limited number of serotypes such as Pneumovax® and Prevnar® results in the expansion of non-covered serotypes. Pneumococcal surface proteins represent challenging candidates for the development of new therapeutic targets against the bacteria. Despite the number of described virulence factors, we believe that the majority of them remain to be characterized. This is the reason why pneumococcus invasion processes are still largely unknown.

Results

Availability of genome sequences facilitated the identification of pneumococcal surface proteins bearing characteristic motifs such as choline-binding proteins (Cbp) and peptidoglycan binding (LPXTG) proteins. We designed a medium throughput approach to systematically test for interactions between these pneumococcal surface proteins and host proteins (extracellular matrix proteins, circulating proteins or immunity related proteins). We cloned, expressed and purified 28 pneumococcal surface proteins. Interactions were tested in a solid phase assay, which led to the identification of 23 protein-protein interactions among which 20 are new.

Conclusions

We conclude that whether peptidoglycan binding proteins do not appear to be major adhesins, most of the choline-binding proteins interact with host proteins (elastin and C reactive proteins are the major Cbp partners). These newly identified interactions open the way to a better understanding of host-pneumococcal interactions.
The structural and photosynthetic characteristics of the exposed peduncle of wheat (Triticum aestivumL.): an important photosynthate source for grain-filling
Authors: Kong Lingan , Wang Fahong , Feng Bo , Li Shengdong , Si Jisheng , Zhang Bin
Published: July 2010

Background

In wheat (Triticum aestivum L), the flag leaf has been thought of as the main source of assimilates for grain growth, whereas the peduncle has commonly been thought of as a transporting organ. The photosynthetic characteristics of the exposed peduncle have therefore been neglected. In this study, we investigated the anatomical traits of the exposed peduncle during wheat grain ontogenesis, and we compared the exposed peduncle to the flag leaf with respect to chloroplast ultrastructure, photosystem II (PSII) quantum yield, and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPCase; EC 4.1.1.31) activity.

Results

Transmission electron microscope observations showed well-developed chloroplasts with numerous granum stacks at grain-filling stages 1, 2 and 3 in both the flag leaf and the exposed peduncle. In the exposed peduncle, the membranes constituting the thylakoids were very distinct and plentiful, but in the flag leaf, there was a sharp breakdown at stage 4 and complete disintegration of the thylakoid membranes at stage 5. PSII quantum yield assays revealed that the photosynthetic efficiency remained constant at stages 1, 2 and 3 and then declined in both organs. However, the decline occurred more dramatically in the flag leaf than in the exposed peduncle. An enzyme assay showed that at stages 1 and 2 the PEPCase activity was lower in the exposed peduncle than in the flag leaf; but at stages 3, 4 and 5 the value was higher in the exposed peduncle, with a particularly significant difference observed at stage 5. Subjecting the exposed part of the peduncle to darkness following anthesis reduced the rate of grain growth.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the exposed peduncle is a photosynthetically active organ that produces photosynthates and thereby makes a crucial contribution to grain growth, particularly during the late stages of grain-filling.
Identification of the family of aquaporin genes and their expression in upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutumL.)
Authors: Park Wonkeun , Scheffler Brian E , Bauer Philip J , Campbell B Todd
Published: July 2010

Background

Cotton (Gossypium spp.) is produced in over 30 countries and represents the most important natural fiber in the world. One of the primary factors affecting both the quantity and quality of cotton production is water. A major facilitator of water movement through cell membranes of cotton and other plants are the aquaporin proteins. Aquaporin proteins are present as diverse forms in plants, where they function as transport systems for water and other small molecules. The plant aquaporins belong to the large major intrinsic protein (MIP) family. In higher plants, they consist of five subfamilies including plasma membrane intrinsic proteins (PIP), tonoplast intrinsic proteins (TIP), NOD26-like intrinsic proteins (NIP), small basic intrinsic proteins (SIP), and the recently discovered X intrinsic proteins (XIP). Although a great deal is known about aquaporins in plants, very little is known in cotton.

Results

From a molecular cloning effort, together with a bioinformatic homology search, 71 upland cotton (G. hirsutum) aquaporin genes were identified. The cotton aquaporins consist of 28 PIP and 23 TIP members with high sequence similarity. We also identified 12 NIP and 7 SIP members that showed more divergence. In addition, one XIP member was identified that formed a distinct 5th subfamily. To explore the physiological roles of these aquaporin genes in cotton, expression analyses were performed for a select set of aquaporin genes from each subfamily using semi-quantitative reverse transcription (RT)-PCR. Our results suggest that many cotton aquaporin genes have high sequence similarity and diverse roles as evidenced by analysis of sequences and their expression.

Conclusion

This study presents a comprehensive identification of 71 cotton aquaporin genes. Phylogenetic analysis of amino acid sequences divided the large and highly similar multi-gene family into the known 5 aquaporin subfamilies. Together with expression and bioinformatic analyses, our results support the idea that the genes identified in this study represent an important genetic resource providing potential targets to modify the water use properties of cotton.
High prevalence of fecal carriage of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae in a pediatric unit in Madagascar
Authors: Andriatahina Todisoa , Randrianirina Frédérique , Hariniana Eliosa Ratsima , Talarmin Antoine , Raobijaona Honoré , Buisson Yves , Richard Vincent
Published: July 2010

Background

Extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacteriaceae have spread worldwide but there are few reports on carriage in hospitals in low-income countries. ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-PE) have been increasingly isolated from nosocomial infections in Antananarivo, Madagascar.

Methods

we conducted a prevalence survey in a pediatric unit from March to April 2008 Patient rectal swabs were sampled on the first and the last day of hospitalization. Medical staff and environment were also sampled. Rectal and environmental swabs were immediately plated onto Drigalski agar supplemented with 3 mg/liter of ceftriaxon.

Results

Fecal carriage was detected in 21.2% of 244 infants on admission and 57.1% of 154 on discharge, after more than 48 hours of hospitalization (p < 0.001). The species most frequently detected on admission were Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae (36.9%), whereas, on discharge, K. pneumoniae was the species most frequently detected (52.7%). ESBL-associated resistances were related to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (91.3%), gentamicin (76.1%), ciprofloxacin (50.0%), but not to amikacin and imipenem. The increased prevalence of carriage during hospitalization was related to standard antimicrobial therapy.

Conclusion

The significant emergence of multidrug-resistant enteric pathogens in Malagasy hospitals poses a serious health threat requiring the implementation of surveillance and control measures for nosocomial infections.
MicroRNA-221 and microRNA-222 regulate gastric carcinoma cell proliferation and radioresistance by targeting PTEN
Authors: Chun-zhi Zhang , Lei Han , An-ling Zhang , Yan-chao Fu , Xiao Yue , Guang-xiu Wang , Zhi-fan Jia , Pei-yu Pu , Qing-yu Zhang , Chun-sheng Kang
Published: July 2010

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can function as either oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes via regulation of cell proliferation and/or apoptosis. MiR-221 and miR-222 were discovered to induce cell growth and cell cycle progression via direct targeting of p27 and p57 in various human malignancies. However, the roles of miR-221 and miR-222 have not been reported in human gastric cancer. In this study, we examined the impact of miR-221 and miR-222 on human gastric cancer cells, and identified target genes for miR-221 and miR-222 that might mediate their biology.

Methods

The human gastric cancer cell line SGC7901 was transfected with AS-miR-221/222 or transduced with pMSCV-miR-221/222 to knockdown or restore expression of miR-221 and miR-222, respectively. The effects of miR-221 and miR-222 were then assessed by cell viability, cell cycle analysis, apoptosis, transwell, and clonogenic assay. Potential target genes were identified by Western blot and luciferase reporter assay.

Results

Upregulation of miR-221 and miR-222 induced the malignant phenotype of SGC7901 cells, whereas knockdown of miR-221 and miR-222 reversed this phenotype via induction of PTEN expression. In addition, knockdonwn of miR-221 and miR-222 inhibited cell growth and invasion and increased the radiosensitivity of SGC7901 cells. Notably, the seed sequence of miR-221 and miR-222 matched the 3'UTR of PTEN, and introducing a PTEN cDNA without the 3'UTR into SGC7901 cells abrogated the miR-221 and miR-222-induced malignant phenotype. PTEN-3'UTR luciferase reporter assay confirmed PTEN as a direct target of miR-221 and miR-222.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate that miR-221 and miR-222 regulate radiosensitivity, and cell growth and invasion of SGC7901 cells, possibly via direct modulation of PTEN expression. Our study suggests that inhibition of miR-221 and miR-222 might form a novel therapeutic strategy for human gastric cancer.
Is the Scottish population living dangerously? Prevalence of multiple risk factors: the Scottish Health Survey 2003
Authors: Lawder Richard , Harding Oliver , Stockton Diane , Fischbacher Colin , Brewster David H , Chalmers Jim , Finlayson Alan , Conway David I
Published: July 2010

Background

Risk factors are often considered individually, we aimed to investigate the prevalence of combinations of multiple behavioural risk factors and their association with socioeconomic determinants.

Methods

Multinomial logistic regression was used to model the associations between socioeconomic factors and multiple risk factors from data in the Scottish Health Survey 2003. Prevalence of five key risk - smoking, alcohol, diet, overweight/obesity, and physical inactivity, and their risk in relation to demographic, individual and area socioeconomic factors were assessed.

Results

Full data were available on 6,574 subjects (80.7% of the survey sample). Nearly the whole adult population (97.5%) reported to have at least one behavioural risk factor; while 55% have three or more risk factors; and nearly 20% have four or all five risk factors. The most important determinants for having four or five multiple risk factors were low educational attainment which conferred over a 3-fold increased risk compared to high education; and residence in the most deprived communities (relative to least deprived) which had greater than 3-fold increased risk.

Conclusions

The prevalence of multiple behavioural risk factors was high and the prevalence of absence of all risk factors very low. These behavioural patterns were strongly associated with poorer socioeconomic circumstances. Policy to address factors needs to be joined up and better consider underlying socioeconomic circumstances.
Co-occurrence of outlet impingement syndrome of the shoulder and restricted range of motion in the thoracic spine - a prospective study with ultrasound-based motion analysis
Authors: Theisen Christina , van Wagensveld Ad , Timmesfeld Nina , Efe Turgay , Heyse Thomas J , Fuchs-Winkelmann Susanne , Schofer Markus D
Published: July 2010

Background

Shoulder complaints, and especially the outlet-impingement syndrome, are a common condition. Among other things, poor posture has been discussed as a cause. A correlation between impingement syndrome and restricted mobility of the thoracic spine (T) has been described earlier, but there has been no motion analysis of the thoracic spine to show these correlations. In the present prospective study, we intended to find out whether there is a significant difference in the thoracic sagittal range of motion (ROM) between patients with a shoulder outlet impingement syndrome and a group of patients who had no shoulder pathology. Secondly, we wanted to clarify whether Ott's sign correlates with ultrasound topometric measurements.

Methods

Two sex- and age-matched groups (2 × n = 39) underwent a clinical and an ultrasound topometric examination. The postures examined were sitting up straight, sitting in maximal flexion and sitting in maximal extension. The disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) score (obtained by means of a self-assessment questionnaire) and the Constant score were calculated. Lengthening and shortening of the dorsal projections of the spine in functional positions was measured by tape with Ott's sign.

Results

On examination of the thoracic kyphosis in the erect seated posture there were no significant differences between the two groups (p = 0.66). With ultrasound topometric measurement it was possible to show a significantly restricted segmental mobility of the thoracic spine in the study group compared with the control group (p = 0.01). An in-depth look at the mobility of the subsegments T1-4, T5-8 and T9-12 revealed that differences between the groups in the mobility in the lower two sections of the thoracic spine were significant (T5-8: p = 0.03; T9-12: p = 0.02). The study group had an average Constant score of 35.1 points and the control group, 85.5 (p < 0.001). On the DASH score the patient group reached 34.2 points and the control group, 1.4 (p < 0.001). The results of Ott's sign differed significantly between the two collectives (p = 0.0018), but showed a weak correlation with the ultrasound topometric measurements (study group flexion/extension: r = 0.36/0.43, control group flexion/extension: r = 0.29/0.26).

Conclusion

The mobility of the thoracic spine should receive more attention in the diagnosis and therapy of patients with shoulder outlet impingement syndrome.
Effects of rituximab in two patients with dysferlin-deficient muscular dystrophy
Authors: Lerario Alberto , Cogiamanian Filippo , Marchesi Chiara , Belicchi Marzia , Bresolin Nereo , Porretti Laura , Torrente Yvan
Published: July 2010

Background

The administration of rituximab (RTX)in vivoresults in B-cell depletion, but evidence for multiple mechanisms of action have been reported. Surprisingly, B cell depletion produced a response in patients with polymyositis, which is characterized as a T cell-mediated autoimmune disorder with biopsy findings similar to Miyoshi myopathy (MM). Indeed, in dysferlinopathies, there is evidence of immune system involvement including the presence of muscle inflammation and a down regulation of the complement inhibitory factor, CD55.

Methods

Two patients were treated with four weekly infusions of RTX 375 mg/m2. To measure the improvement in muscle strength after treatment, the isometric hand grip maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) was measured by load cell four times during treatment, and again after one year. In order to assess the reproducibility of our grip assessment, we determined the hand MVC analysis in 16 healthy subjects. Moreover, we measured the number of B cells present in patients by flow cytometric analysis during the course of treatment.

Results

The analysis of B cell number during the course of treatment showed that CD20- and CD19-positive cells were depleted to 0-0.01%. The decrease in B cells was followed by an improvement in the mobility of the pelvic and shoulder girdles as shown by the MRC%. The MVC values of both patients began at values lower than normal whereas during treatment patients had improved percentage of muscle strength. The strength peak in both patients coincided with the minimum B cell values. There were no severe adverse events associated with an infusion of RTX.

Conclusion

We consider the increase in muscle strength observed in both treated patients to be a consequence of their treatment with RTX. To our knowledge, these are the first cases of increased muscle strength in patients with MM. Furthermore, the results of this study indicate that B cell depletion with RTX may be useful in the treatment of patients affected by MM, suggesting a possible role for B cells in the pathophysiology of this muscle disorder.
The role of gaping behaviour in habitat partitioning between coexisting intertidal mussels
Authors: Nicastro Katy R , Zardi Gerardo I , McQuaid Christopher D , Stephens Linda , Radloff Sarah , Blatch Gregory L
Published: July 2010

Background

Environmental heterogeneity plays a major role in invasion and coexistence dynamics. Habitat segregation between introduced species and their native competitors is usually described in terms of different physiological and behavioural abilities. However little attention has been paid to the effects of behaviour in habitat partitioning among invertebrates, partially because their behavioural repertoires, especially marine benthic taxa, are extremely limited. This study investigates the effect of gaping behaviour on habitat segregation of the two dominant mussel species living in South Africa, the invasive Mytilus galloprovincialis and the indigenous Perna perna. These two species show partial habitat segregation on the south coast of South Africa, the lower and upper areas of the mussel zone are dominated by P. perna and M. galloprovincialis respectively, with overlap in the middle zone. During emergence, intertidal mussels will either keep the valves closed, minimizing water loss and undergoing anaerobic metabolism, or will periodically open the valves maintaining a more efficient aerobic metabolism but increasing the risk of desiccation.

Results

Our results show that, when air exposed, the two species adopt clearly different behaviours. M. galloprovincialis keeps the shell valves closed, while P. perna periodically gapes. Gaping behaviour increased water loss in the indigenous species, and consequently the risk of desiccation. The indigenous species expressed significantly higher levels of stress protein (Hsp70) than M. galloprovincialis under field conditions and suffered significantly higher mortality rates when exposed to air in the laboratory. In general, no intra-specific differences were observed in relation to intertidal height. The absence of gaping minimises water loss but exposes the invasive species to other stresses, probably related to anoxic respiration.

Conclusions

Gaping affects tolerance to desiccation, thus influencing the vertical zonation of the two species. Valve closure exposes the invasive species to higher stress and associated energy demands, but it minimizes water loss, allowing this species to dominate the upper mussel zone, where the gaping indigenous P. perna cannot survive. Thus even very simple behaviour can influence the outcome of interactions between indigenous and invasive species.