bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deletion of the Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products Reduces Glomerulosclerosis and Preserves Renal Function in the Diabetic OVE26 Mouse
Authors: Reiniger Nina , Lau Kai , McCalla Daren , Eby Bonnie , Cheng Bin , Lu Yan , Qu Wu , Quadri Nosirudeen , Ananthakrishnan Radha , Furmansky Maryana , Rosario Rosa , Song Fei , Rai Vivek , Weinberg Alan , Friedman Richard , Ramasamy Ravichandran , D'Agati Vivette , Schmidt Ann Marie
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVE

Previous studies showed that genetic deletion or pharmacological blockade of the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) prevents the early structural changes in the glomerulus associated with diabetic nephropathy. To overcome limitations of mouse models that lack the progressive glomerulosclerosis observed in humans, we studied the contribution of RAGE to diabetic nephropathy in the OVE26 type 1 mouse, a model of progressive glomerulosclerosis and decline of renal function.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We bred OVE26 mice with homozygous RAGE knockout (RKO) mice and examined structural changes associated with diabetic nephropathy and used inulin clearance studies and albumin:creatinine measurements to assess renal function. Transcriptional changes in the Tgf-β1 and plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 gene products were measured to investigate mechanisms underlying accumulation of mesangial matrix in OVE26 mice.

RESULTS

Deletion of RAGE in OVE26 mice reduced nephromegaly, mesangial sclerosis, cast formation, glomerular basement membrane thickening, podocyte effacement, and albuminuria. The significant 29% reduction in glomerular filtration rate observed in OVE26 mice was completely prevented by deletion of RAGE. Increased transcription of the genes for plasminogen activator inhibitor 1, Tgf-β1, Tgf-β–induced, and α1-(IV) collagen observed in OVE26 renal cortex was significantly reduced in OVE26 RKO kidney cortex. ROCK1 activity was significantly lower in OVE26 RKO compared with OVE26 kidney cortex.

CONCLUSIONS

These data provide compelling evidence for critical roles for RAGE in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy and suggest that strategies targeting RAGE in long-term diabetes may prevent loss of renal function.
Variation at the NFATC2 Locus Increases the Risk of Thiazolidinedione-Induced Edema in the Diabetes REduction Assessment with ramipril and rosiglitazone Medication (DREAM) Study
Authors: Bailey Swneke D. , Xie Changchun , Do Ron , Montpetit Alexandre , Diaz Rafael , Mohan Viswanathan , Keavney Bernard , Yusuf Salim , Gerstein Hertzel C. , Engert James C. , Anand Sonia ,   on behalf of the DREAM investigators
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVE

Thiazolidinediones are used to treat type 2 diabetes. Their use has been associated with peripheral edema and congestive heart failure—outcomes that may have a genetic etiology.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We genotyped 4,197 participants of the multiethnic DREAM (Diabetes REduction Assessment with ramipril and rosiglitazone Medication) trial with a 50k single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) array, which captures ∼2000 cardiovascular, inflammatory, and metabolic genes. We tested 32,088 SNPs for an association with edema among Europeans who received rosiglitazone (n = 965).

RESULTS

One SNP, rs6123045, in NFATC2 was significantly associated with edema (odds ratio 1.89 [95% CI 1.47–2.42]; P = 5.32 × 10−7, corrected P = 0.017). Homozygous individuals had the highest edema rate (hazard ratio 2.89, P = 4.22 × 10−4) when compared with individuals homozygous for the protective allele, with heterozygous individuals having an intermediate risk. The interaction between the SNP and rosiglitazone for edema was significant (P = 7.68 × 10−3). Six SNPs in NFATC2 were significant in both Europeans and Latin Americans (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Genetic variation at the NFATC2 locus contributes to edema among individuals who receive rosiglitazone.
A Prospective Study of Calcaneal Bone Mineral Density in Acute Charcot Osteoarthropathy
Authors: Petrova Nina L. , Edmonds Michael E.
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVE

To measure prospectively bone mineral density (BMD) of the Charcot and non-Charcot foot in 36 diabetic patients presenting with acute Charcot osteoarthropathy.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Calcaneal BMD was measured with quantitative ultrasound at presentation, at 3 months of casting, and at the time of the clinical resolution.

RESULTS

BMD of the Charcot foot was significantly reduced compared with BMD of the non-Charcot foot at presentation (P = 0.001), at 3 months of casting (P < 0.001), and at the time of clinical resolution (P < 0.001). Overall, from the time of presentation to the time of resolution there was a significant fall of BMD of the Charcot foot (P < 0.001) but not of the non-Charcot foot (P = 0.439).

CONCLUSIONS

Although the Charcot foot was treated with casting until clinical resolution, there was a significant fall of BMD only from presentation up until 3 months of casting.
Association Between Fine Particulate Matter and Diabetes Prevalence in the U.S.
Authors: Pearson John F. , Bachireddy Chethan , Shyamprasad Sangameswaran , Goldfine Allison B. , Brownstein John S.
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVE

Recent studies have drawn attention to the adverse effects of ambient air pollutants such as particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) on human health. We evaluated the association between PM2.5 exposure and diabetes prevalence in the U.S. and explored factors that may influence this relationship.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The relationship between PM2.5 levels and diagnosed diabetes prevalence in the U.S. was assessed by multivariate regression models at the county level using data obtained from both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for years 2004 and 2005. Covariates including obesity rates, population density, ethnicity, income, education, and health insurance were collected from the U.S. Census Bureau and the CDC.

RESULTS

Diabetes prevalence increases with increasing PM2.5 concentrations, with a 1% increase in diabetes prevalence seen with a 10 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5 exposure (2004: β = 0.77 [95% CI 0.39–1.25], P < 0.001; 2005: β = 0.81 [0.48–1.07], P < 0.001). This finding was confirmed for each study year in both univariate and multivariate models. The relationship remained consistent and significant when different estimates of PM2.5 exposure were used. Even for counties within guidelines for EPA PM2.5 exposure limits, those with the highest exposure showed a >20% increase in diabetes prevalence compared with that for those with the lowest levels of PM2.5, an association that persisted after controlling for diabetes risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest PM2.5 may contribute to increased diabetes prevalence in the adult U.S. population. These findings add to the growing evidence that air pollution is a risk factor for diabetes.
On the erosion due to inclined jets
Authors: Minatti Lorenzo , Paris Enio , Solari Luca
Published: July 2010

On the erosion due to inclined jets

Some preliminary experiments and studies regarding scour processes on a mobile bed caused by inclined jets issuing from a sluice gate are presented. Tests with submerged tailwater conditions have been carried out using different flow and geometric conditions. The investigated experimental conditions included different jet Froude numbers, inclinations and tailwater conditions. The bed configuration has been measured during the whole scour hole evolution process until the achievement of a dynamic steady state, where sediment motion was still possible even though it did not allow for any persistent change in the scour and ridge shapes anymore. On the basis of the observed sediment motion, two different patterns of flow seem to develop under the investigated conditions: one where the main flow remains attached to the bottom of the channel and another where it oscillates between the aforementioned configuration and a surface jet. Some relevant parameters have been identified and used to plot graphs showing their correlation and trends.
Effects of liquid pig manure fertilization on the density and species structure of Oribatida (Acari) and green forage yield in a lowland meadow in Poland
Authors: Wasińska-Graczyk Beata , Seniczak Stanisław , Graczyk Radomir
Published: July 2010

Effects of liquid pig manure fertilization on the density and species structure of Oribatida (Acari) and green forage yield in a lowland meadow in Poland

The effect of liquid pig manure fertilization, with or without the disinfectant VIT-TRA, on oribatid communities was investigated in a lowland meadow in Poland. The disinfectant was tested at 3 concentrations: 0.50% (fungicidal), 0.75% (bactericidal), and 3.00% (viricidal). Liquid pig manure without the disinfectant increased the green forage yield along with increasing doses of this fertilizer, while addition of disinfectants affected the yield in different ways. Low and medium doses of fertilizer (20 and 40 m3·ha-1) with fungicide slightly decreased the yield, while the high dose (60 m3·ha-1) usually increased it, as compared to the control. Low and medium doses of liquid pig manure, treated or not with disinfectants, decreased the abundance of oribatid mites. In contrast, the high dose increased their abundance, except for the plot with a high dose of viricide, where they were slightly less abundant than in the control. In the investigated meadow, Liebstadia humerata, Parachipteria bella and Scheloribates laevigatus were abundant, but reacted negatively to low and medium doses of liquid pig manure treated or not with disinfectants, and positively only to the high dose of fertilizer treated with fungicide and bactericide, as compared to the control plot.
Effects of salt stress on proline content, expression of delta-1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate synthetase, and activities of catalase and ascorbate peroxidase in transgenic tobacco plants
Authors: Razavizadeh Roya , Ehsanpour Ali
Published: July 2010

Effects of salt stress on proline content, expression of delta-1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate synthetase, and activities of catalase and ascorbate peroxidase in transgenic tobacco plants

In arid and semiarid regions, soil salinity limits crop production. Proline accumulation in transgenic plants results in increased stress tolerance, but the underlying mechanism was unclear. To elucidate it, effects of salt stress on the expression pattern of Δ1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate synthetase (P5CS), proline content, catalase (CAT), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activities were analyzed in transgenic tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum cv. Wisconsin). Transgenic tobacco plants containing CaMV 35S promoter and the P5CS gene from moth bean (Vigna aconitifolia), linked to the NPTII gene, were cultured in vitro with or without 300 mM NaCl. The expression pattern of P5CS was evaluated using semiquantitative RT-PCR (reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction). Time-course experiments showed an increase in proline content after 4 h of the treatment. The level of P5CS transcripts was increased significantly in leaves and roots of transgenic plants after 24 and 48 h of treatment. This rise in transcripts was concomitant with the highest increase in proline content. In addition, CAT and APX activities increased under salt stress, and their highest activities were observed after 24 and 48 h of NaCl treatment. These results suggest that P5CS is an inducible gene regulating the activities of CAT and APX and the accumulation of proline in plants subjected to salt stress.
Oribatid mites (Acari, Oribatida) of steppe vegetation on cape Tarhankut in Crimea (Ukraine)
Authors: Seniczak Stanisław , Kaczmarek Sławomir , Seniczak Anna
Published: July 2010

Oribatid mites (Acari, Oribatida) of steppe vegetation on cape Tarhankut in Crimea (Ukraine)

Oribatid mites were investigated in patches of steppe vegetation, dominated by esparto (Stipa sp.), other grasses, Artemisia caucasica, Sedum sp., mosses, or lichens, on cape Tarhankut in Crimea (Mediterranean climate). These mites were quite abundant and rich in species there, probably thanks to the fresh sea breeze and geographic expansion of species from the Mediterranean region, Central Asia, and Europe. They achieved the highest density in patches of steppe grasses other than esparto, but most species occurred in sedum patches. The most abundant was Tectocepheus velatus, especially in patches of steppe grasses other than esparto, and relatively abundant were Scutovertex sp. 1, Jacotella neonominata and Scheloribates laevigatus. In populations of these species the adults usually dominated, but their age structure greatly depended on vegetation type.
Vegetation structure and ecological characteristics of forest of North Andaman Islands (India)
Authors: Prasad P. , Sringeswara A. , Reddy C. , Kumari P. , Varalakshmi R. , Raza S. , Dutt C.
Published: July 2010

Vegetation structure and ecological characteristics of forest of North Andaman Islands (India)

In this study, 3-ha research plots were established, one each in evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous forests of North Andaman Islands. These 3 vegetation types were selected to study the structural aspects of plant diversity in forest communities. Our results showed high species richness and basal area in evergreen forest, high diversity in semi-evergreen forest, and high tree density (trees ha-1) in moist deciduous forest. At family level, the Anacardiaceae and Sterculiaceae dominated all the forest types, and were distributed throughout the North Andaman Islands. In the 3 forest communities, most species exhibited clumped spatial distribution, while random distribution ranked second. Tree girth class distribution revealed a decreasing number of trees with increasing girth class, indicating natural regeneration of these forest types. The species-area curve clearly reached a plateau at 3-ha area in respect of species number, supporting the adequacy of the large plot size selected in the present investigation. The study recorded a total of 136 tree species in the 3 forest communities and was higher than in many other tropical forest sites. The vegetation analysis of 3-ha plot in 3 different forest types substantially contributed data on North Andaman site potentiality, with reference to its species richness and diversity.
Effects of diflubenzuron and mancozeb on soil microarthropods: a long-term study
Authors: Adamski Zbigniew , Błoszyk Jerzy , Piosik Katarzyna , Tomczak Kamila
Published: July 2010

Effects of diflubenzuron and mancozeb on soil microarthropods: a long-term study

Soil microarthropods exposed to the pesticides mancozeb (240 mg per 1 m2) or diflubenzuron (7.2 mg of diflubenzuron per 1 m2) were studied for 6 months after a single application. The observed taxa included Collembola, Insecta, Myriapoda, and 4 groups of mites: Actinedida (=Prostigmata), Gamasina, Uropodina, and Oribatida. Their abundance in soil was subject to seasonal fluctuations, but for a majority of taxa no significant differences were noticed between the control and exposed plots. The total number of microarthropods was insignificantly lower in exposed groups. Myriapods were the only taxon that was close to extinction after a single exposure to diflubenzuron. These data prove that soil has some buffering capacity, and this fact should always be taken into consideration when estimating the risk for the environment. However, the situation may change if the application of pesticides is repeated.
Soil mites (Acari, Mesostigmata) from Szczeliniec Wielki in the Stołowe Mountains National Park (SW Poland)
Authors: Kamczyc Jacek , Gwiazdowicz Dariusz
Published: July 2010

Soil mites (Acari, Mesostigmata) from Szczeliniec Wielki in the Stołowe Mountains National Park (SW Poland)

The species composition of mesostigmatid mites in the soil and leaf litter was studied on the Szczeliniec Wielki plateau, which is spatially isolated from similar rocky habitats. A total of 1080 soil samples were taken from June 2004 to September 2005. The samples, including the organic horizon from the herb layer and litter from rock cracks, were collected using steel cylinders (area 40 cm2, depth 0-10 cm). They were generally dominated by Gamasellus montanus, Veigaia nemorensis, and Leptogamasus cristulifer. Rhodacaridae, Parasitidae and Veigaiidae were the most numerously represented families as regards to individuals. Among the 55 recorded mesostigmatid species, 13 species were new to the fauna of the Stołowe National Park. Thus the soil mesostigmatid fauna of the Szczeliniec Wielki plateau is generally poor and at an early stage of succession.
Clitellocephalus ophoni (Tuzet et Ormières, 1956) (Apicomplexa: Eugregarinida: Gregarinidae) recorded in Poland on strawberry seed beetle Harpalus (Ophonus) rufipes (De Geer, 1774) (Coleoptera: Carabidae)
Authors: Sienkiewicz Paweł , Lipa Jerzy
Published: July 2010

Clitellocephalus ophoni (Tuzet et Ormières, 1956) (Apicomplexa: Eugregarinida: Gregarinidae) recorded in Poland on strawberry seed beetle Harpalus (Ophonus) rufipes (De Geer, 1774) (Coleoptera: Carabidae)

The eugregarine Clitellocephalus ophoni (Tuzet et Ormières, 1956), originally recorded and described on the strawberry seed beetle Harpalus (Ophonus) rufipes (De Geer, 1774) collected in France, is now reported from the same host insect in Poland. It is a new protozoan species in Polish fauna. Out of 280 adult beetles collected in Poland, 21 were parasitized by gregarines, but only 3 by C. ophoni. A morphometric and morphological analysis of C. ophoni trophozoites and gamonts found in the digestive tract of host specimens in France and Poland indicated a significant similarity. The prevalence of C. ophoni is low (about 1%), but the community of gregarines with prevalence of 8% could be an important factor of environmental resistance.
Calculation of the viscosity of the liquid ternary Ag–Au–Sn system
Authors: Knott S. , Terzieff P.
Published: July 2010

The viscosity of the ternary Ag–Au–Sn system has been calculated using two different semi-empirical models which apply universal parameters valid for all metals. Experimental values of the integral enthalpy of mixing were used as inputs. The theoretical results are represented as iso-lines of the excess viscosity. Additional calculations based on a geometrical model fitted to the experimental viscosities of the binary systems were applied in order to discuss the physical significance of the results predicted for the ternary system.
Effect of annealing on formability and crystallographic textures of aluminium 5052 alloy sheets
Authors: Ravindran R. , Manonmani K. , Narayanasamy R.
Published: July 2010

In this work, forming and fracture limit diagrams have been experimentally evaluated for aluminium 5052 alloy sheet annealed at four different temperatures namely 200°C, 250°C, 300°C and 350°C. With the help of these diagrams, the safe range which avoids necking and fracture during forming of aluminium 5052 alloy sheets was examined and the effect of annealing temperature on this range and other parameters namely microstructure, tensile properties and formability parameters were studied. The forming limit diagrams of aluminium 5052 alloy sheets annealed under different temperatures were also examined with respect to the crystallographic texture point of view. The crystallographic textures were then correlated with normal anisotropy of the sheet metal. It was found that the formability of aluminium 5052 alloy annealed at 350°C possessed good formability, optimal texture and high normal anisotropy value.
The use of fly ash and basaltic pumice as additives in the productionof clay fired brick in Turkey
Authors: Binici Hanifi , Aksogan Orhan , Temiz Huseyin , Kaplan Hasan , Ulusoy Ahmet
Published: July 2010

The main objective of this study is to investigate the suitability of fly ash and basaltic pumice as additives in the production of high quality clay fired bricks. Clay bricks with/without additives were produced adding equal amounts of fly ash and basaltic pumice, separately and together, with the rates of 5, 10 and 20 wt.%. Each sample was fired at 700, 900 and 1 050°C for 8 h. Bulk density, harmful magnesia and lime, shrinkage, water absorption, compressive and flexural strength, freezing and thawing tests were carried out. The test results were compared with the standard values and they were found to be satisfactory. Finally, it was concluded that both fly ash and basaltic pumice were suitable admixtures and could be used efficiently in fired brick production.
Study of wear behaviour of ductile iron subjected to two step austempering
Authors: Kumari Ritha , Rao P. Prasad
Published: July 2010

An investigation was carried out to examine the influence of two step austempering on microstructural parameters and the wear behaviour of austempered ductile iron. Ductile iron was austenitised at 900°C for 30 min, and then austempered successively at two different temperatures. It was first austempered at 300°C for different durations from 2 min to 30 min and subsequently austempered at 400°C for 2 h, after which it was quenched to room temperature. Resulting microstructures were characterised through optical microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Mechanical properties were studied through hardness measurement and tensile testing. Wear studies were carried out using a pin-on-disc machine. Wear rate was found to decrease with increasing time at the first step temperature of 300°C. At short austempering times at 300°C, the amount of austenite was instrumental in improving the wear resistance through formation of deformation induced martensite. Wear rate was found to depend on yield strength, austenite content and its carbon content.
Alloys with thermal expansion matching to electrolyte materials for solid oxide fuel cells
Authors: Rodionov Yu. L. , Mogutnov B. M. , Shaposhnikov N. G. , Korms I. A. , Pozdnyakov V. A. , Mishanin S. V. , Malinov V. I.
Published: July 2010

The thermal expansion of the Fe-(30–40) wt.% Ni-(20–30) wt.% Co-(6–10) wt.% Cr alloys matches closely with yttria-stabilized zirconia, often used as electrolyte in solid oxide fuel cells. At the best fit, the difference in the thermal expansion coefficients does not exceed 0.7·10–6 K–1 in the range from room temperature to ~500°C. Significant mismatch begins above 600°C, but the internal stresses this mismatch might cause in the metallic component of the metal/ceramics junctions remain significantly below the yield strength up to the temperatures exceeding the starting temperature of relaxation processes by ~180–240°C. The above alloys are phase stable so that no phase transformations are expected at the cell operating temperatures. Their resistance to corrosion attacks in cathodic and anodic environments is comparable to ferritic steels containing 25–30% chromium. The transfer of chromium from the alloys containing 34% Ni, 30% Co and 6–14% Cr into the La0.6Sr0.4MnO4 cathode material occurs after 400–600 h heating at 900°C. Chromium penetrated to a depth of 20 μm at most.
Electromagnetic radiation during plastic deformation under unrestricted quasi-static compression in metals and alloys
Authors: Chauhan Vishal S. , Misra Ashok
Published: July 2010

Intermittent electromagnetic radiation (EMR) emissions from metals and alloys during deformation under unrestricted quasi-static compression are reported in this paper. The end surface conditions of the compressing platens, whether lubricated or unlubricated, influence the EMR emission characteristics. The EMR emissions under compression show shape anisotropy. The first EMR emission invariably occurs near the yield. The EMR emission characteristics are also influenced by the crystal structure. During axial compression, dead metal zones formed on the top and bottom portions of the specimens possibly generate a climbing motion of edge dislocations in the radially outward mid-regions. During the climbing motion, these edge dislocations form accelerated electric line dipoles and emit electromagnetic radiation. These EMR emissions can be used to evaluate the degree of damage in metallic components under compression.
Thermophysical properties of liquid tin–bismuth alloys
Authors: Plevachuk Yuriy , Sklyarchuk Vasyl , Gerbeth Gunter , Eckert Sven
Published: July 2010

Tin–bismuth alloys are under intense consideration as favourable lead-free solders for consumer electronics and telecommunications. The electrical and thermal conductivity, viscosity, surface tension and density were studied in a wide temperature range above the liquidus. The scaling relations have been proposed. A comparison with data available in literature is given.
Toughness increase of self compacting concrete reinforced with polypropylene short fibers
Authors: Melián G. , Barluenga G. , Hernández-Olivares F.
Published: July 2010

Increases in bending tests by the addition of low volume fractions of Polypropylene (PP) Short Fibers PP. These toughness increases are similar to those attained by Fiber Reinforced Concrete (FRC) referred elsewhere as Engineered Cementitious Composites (ECC), having some ductility and strain hardening in direct tensile and flexural tests. Concretes mixtures were manufactured using natural pozzolanic blended Portland cement, volcanic crushed coarse aggregates and fine sand from Sahara desert dunes (0-1 mm) from Canary Islands quarries and sand reservoirs, respectively, besides ordinary siliceous sand (0-4 mm) and fly ash from an anthracite-coal heat generator.
Application of resistograph to obtain the density and to differentiate wood species
Authors: Acuña Luis , Basterra L. Alfonso , Casado M. Milagrosa , López Gamaliel , Ramón-Cueto Gemma , Relea Enrique , Martínez Carlos , González Ana
Published: July 2010

This project offers a methodology for the analysis of resistographic profiles obtained from samples of wood and the extraction of precise data from these profiles.

Tests were conducted on healthy samples of wood from six different species, as well as on “old” wood in use as part of timber structures with an age of 80-120 years.

Based on the data collected using the resistograph, a series of variables was determined, and statistically analysed. An analysis of the data reveals the close relation between the resistographic variables and wood density (R2> 90%). Equally, in the case of healthy wood, an analysis of the defined variables permits the identification of the species of the sample with a very high probability and, therefore, its indirect resistance values.
Invariant NKT Cells Are Required for Antitumor Responses Induced by Host-Versus-Graft Responses
Authors: Saito Toshiki I. , Li Hao Wei , Sykes Megan
Published: July 2010

Based on clinical observations, we have previously shown in a murine model that recipient leukocyte infusion (RLI) induces a host-versus-graft reaction in mixed bone marrow chimeras and that rejection of donor cells leads to a specific antitumor response against recipient malignancies. This response is dependent on T cells and IFN-γ. We investigated the role of NKT cells (NKTs) in this phenomenon. Depletion of recipient NK1.1+ cells led to loss of an anti-tumor effect induced by RLI in mixed bone marrow chimeras. In recipients specifically lacking host invariant NKT cells (iNKTs), RLI did not induce an antitumor effect, indicating a critical role for recipient iNKTs. Conversely, specific activation of iNKTs enhanced the anti-tumor effect induced by RLI. Following RLI, recipient iNKTs, NK cells, dendritic cells (DCs), and CD8 T cells were activated. CD8 T cells were the major producers of IFN-γ. Lack of recipient iNKTs resulted in failure of activation of NK cells and DCs by RLI. Our studies demonstrate a central role for iNKTs in promoting RLI-induced anti-tumor effects and suggest that this pathway involved promotion of the activation of recipient NK cells and DCs.
SevereListeria monocytogenesInfection Induces Development of Monocytes with Distinct Phenotypic and Functional Features
Authors: Drevets Douglas A. , Schawang Jennifer E. , Mandava Vinay K. , Dillon Marilyn J. , Leenen Pieter J. M.
Published: July 2010

Monocytes perform diverse roles during infection with the facultative intracellular bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. They are essential as bactericidal cells in host defense but can also become Trojan horses transporting bacteria into the brain. To explain these contrasting roles, we characterized bone marrow (BM) monocytes in steady state and generated during lethal and sublethal L. monocytogenes infection. Ly-6ChighCD11b+ BM monocytes expressed high amounts of M-CSFR/CD115 in steady state and 72 h following sublethal infection. However, infection with increasing numbers of bacteria resulted in progressive loss of CD115 and strongly decreased CD115-encoding c-fms mRNA expression. Conversely, analysis of regulatory molecules showed de novo expression of the nonsignaling IL-1RII, CD121b, under the same conditions. Ly-6ChighCD11b+ monocytes in circulation also acquired a CD115neg/lowCD121bhigh phenotype during lethal infection. These BM monocytes showed upregulation of suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 and 3 and IL-1R–"associated kinase-M to a greater extent and/or earlier compared with cells from sublethal infection and showed decreased LPS-induced IL-6 production despite similar levels of surface TLR4 expression. BM monocytes from uninfected or sublethally infected mice bound and internalized very few L. monocytogenes in vitro. However, both functions were significantly increased in monocytes developing during lethal infection. Nonetheless, these cells did not produce reactive oxygen intermediates, suggesting an inability to kill L. monocytogenes. Together, these data show that systemic infections with lethal and sublethal amounts of bacteria differentially shape developing BM monocytes. This results in distinct phenotypic and functional properties consistent with being Trojan horses rather than bactericidal effector cells.
A 5′ Extended IFN-Stimulating Response Element Is Crucial for IFN-γ–Induced Tripartite Motif 22 Expression via Interaction with IFN Regulatory Factor-1
Authors: Gao Bo , Wang Yaxin , Xu Wei , Duan Zhijian , Xiong Sidong
Published: July 2010

Interferon-γ is crucial for the noncytopathic clearance of hepatitis B virus. In our previous study, we demonstrated that an IFN-γ–inducible molecule, tripartite motif (TRIM) 22, played an important role in antiviral immunity against hepatitis B virus. However, the molecular mechanism of TRIM22 induction by IFN-γ is still unclear. In this study, we identified a novel cis-element termed 5′ extended IFN-stimulating response element (5′ eISRE) that was crucial for IFN-γ inducibility of TRIM22 through transfection assays with luciferase reporter constructs and EMSAs. The 5′ eISRE consists of an ISRE-like motif (ACTTTCGTTTCTC) and a 6-bp sequence (AATTTA) upstream of it, and all three thymine triplets of this cis-element (AATTTAACTTTCGTTTCTC) were revealed to contribute to the IFN-γ inducibility of TRIM22 by site-directed mutagenesis. Further studies showed that upon IFN-γ stimulation, the 5′ eISRE could be bound by IFN regulatory factor-1 (IRF-1), but not by STAT1, as demonstrated by supershift analysis and an ELISA-based transcription factor assay. Moreover, overexpression of IRF-1 significantly induced TRIM22 expression, whereas silencing of IRF-1 with specific short interference RNA abolished IFN-γ–induced TRIM22 expression in HepG2 cells, indicating an IRF-1–dependent expression of TRIM22. Taken together, it was demonstrated in this study that a novel cis-element, 5′ eISRE, was crucial for the IFN-γ–induced transcriptional activity of the TRIM22 gene via interaction with IRF-1.
Cutting Edge: Rapamycin Augments Pathogen-Specific but Not Graft-Reactive CD8+ T Cell Responses
Authors: Ferrer Ivana R. , Wagener Maylene E. , Robertson Jennifer M. , Turner Alexa P. , Araki Koichi , Ahmed Rafi , Kirk Allan D. , Larsen Christian P. , Ford Mandy L.
Published: July 2010

Recent evidence demonstrating that exposure to rapamycin during viral infection increased the quantity and quality of Ag-specific T cells poses an intriguing paradox, because rapamycin is used in transplantation to dampen, rather than enhance, donor-reactive T cell responses. In this report, we compared the effects of rapamycin on the Ag-specific T cell response to a bacterial infection versus a transplant. Using a transgenic system in which the Ag and the responding T cell population were identical in both cases, we observed that treatment with rapamycin augmented the Ag-specific T cell response to a pathogen, whereas it failed to do so when the Ag was presented in the context of a transplant. These results suggest that the environment in which an Ag is presented alters the influence of rapamycin on Ag-specific T cell expansion and highlights a fundamental difference between Ag presented by an infectious agent as compared with an allograft.
TSH Isoforms: About a Case of Hypothyroidism in a Down's Syndrome Young Adult
Authors: Gauchez Anne-Sophie , Pizzo Magali , Alcaraz-Galvain Dany , Chikh Karim , Orgiazzi Jacques , Brabant Georg , Ronin Catherine , Charrié Anne
Published: July 2010

Background. For unknown reasons, the prevalence of thyroid autoimmune disorders is higher in patients with Down's syndrome than in the general population. The present case strongly supports a recent evaluation of propagating screening for thyroid disease in this group of patients to assure early diagnosis of hypothyroidism.Methods. In a 25-year-old man diagnosed with Down's syndrome, clinical manifestations of hypothyroidism were lacking, but profound biochemical abnormalities were found with particularly high levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Antigenic properties of TSH were characterized using a panel of anti-TSH antibodies.Results. Technical problems not infrequently associated with TSH measurements are convincingly ruled out. Antigenic characterization of the patient's circulating TSH revealed circulating forms of TSH different from pituitary TSH which closely resembled TSH recombinant human hormone.Conclusions. It appears counterintuitive that the bioactivity of TSH decreases in the hypothyroid state as higher bioactivity of TSH is anticipated in hypothyroidism promoted by an increased hypothalamic TRH drive. In contrast, diminished negative thyroid hormone feedback will enhance posttranslational glycosylation of TSH subunits and increase sialylation of the carbohydrate side chains. Both exert a negative effect on TSH bioactivity, only compensated by the very high levels of the hormone as in the present case.
Actinic lichen nitidus
Authors: Blalock Travis , Kannan Swatti , Davis Loretta
Published: July 2010

We present the case of a 29-year-old black female with an initial clinical and histopathologic diagnosis of actinic lichen nitidus. Three years later, she presented with scattered hyperpigmented macules with oval pink/viol­aceous plaques bilaterally on her forearms and on her neck, clinically consistent with actinic lichen planus. She was treated with topical steroids at each visit, with subsequent resolution of her lesions. In this report, we discuss the spectrum of actinic lichenoid dermatoses and of disease that presents even in the same patient.
Predominant sarcomatoid carcinoma of the lung concurrent with jejunal metastasis and leukocytosis
Authors: Jia Jun , Ren Jun , Gu Jin , Di Lijun , Song Guohong
Published: July 2010

Sarcomatoid carcinoma is an extremely rare biphasic tumor characterized by a combination of malignant epithelial and mesenchymal cells. Limited data on sarcomatoid carcinoma showed that most cases occurred with advanced local disease and metastasis, and paraneoplastic syndromes were rare. We present the case of a 63-year-old man with lung sarcomatoid carcinoma associated with jejunum metastasis and leukocytosis, and its clinical, macroscopic, and histopathological features. This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing paraneoplastic syndromes and metastasis of sarcomatoid carcinoma at diagnosis.
Sclerosing angiomatoid nodular transformation of the spleen masquerading as a sarcoma metastasis
Authors: Sitaraman Lalitha M , Linn John G , Matkowskyj Kristina A , Wayne Jeffrey D
Published: July 2010

We report a case of sclerosing angiomatoid nodular transformation (SANT) of the spleen presenting as an incidental splenic mass in a patient with a history of retroperitoneal spindle cell sarcoma. Imaging studies and preoperative fine needle biopsy failed to differentiate this lesion from other vascular splenic lesions or a metastatic focus of a prior sarcoma. The patient was treated with splenectomy, which has proved both diagnostic and therapeutic in this and other cases of SANT. Although histology can lead to the diagnosis of vascular tumor, immunohistochemistry is the only way to confirm the diagnosis of SANT. The etiology of SANT is unknown. SANT of the spleen is a benign lesion that does not recur after splenectomy.
Incomplete Markets And The Calculation Of Economic Loss
Authors: Romans J. Thomas , Floss Frederick G.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Life Insurance As An Offset To Economic Losses In Wrongful Death Cases: A Final Comment
Authors: Ciecka James E.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
The Meaning Of “Hedonic Damages” In Tort Litigation: A Note
Authors: Franz Wolfgang W.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
On The Necessity Of Estimating Expected Inflation In Determining The Value Of Lost Earnings: A Note
Authors: Harris William G.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Economic Loss In Wrongful Death–Including The Retirement Period
Authors: Young Shik C.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Predicting Educational Attainment For A Minor Child: Some Further Evidence
Authors: Gill Andrew M. , Foley Jack
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Calculating Net Discount Rates: It's Time To Recognize Structural Changes
Authors: Johnson Walter D. , Gelles Gregory M.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Worklife Estimates By Occupation
Authors: Richards Hugh , Solie Richard J.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
A Psychiatrist's Comment On “A Better Alternative To Hedonic Damages” And A Suggestion For A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Terman Stanley A.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Can Hedonic Damages Be Added To Other Damage Measures? A Reply To Dr. Stan Terman
Authors: Plummer James L.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Valuing Children in Litigation: Family and Individual Loss Assessment
Authors: Martin Gerald D.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Tenure, Discrimination, and the Courts
Authors: White Paul F.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Calculating The Income Loss Of A Small-Business Owner Who Suffers A Personal Injury: Does Profit Income Differ From Wage Income?
Authors: Soule Peter E.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
The Robin Hood Bias: A Study Of Biased Damage Awards
Authors: Becker Brian C.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
A Logit Model Of Labor Force Participation
Authors: Ciecka James , Donley Thomas
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Discounting Using The New Treasury EE Savings Bonds
Authors: Harris William G.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Predicting The Efficiency Effects Of Mergers
Authors: Hartman Raymond S.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Regarding The New Worklife Expectancy Tables
Authors: Gluck Andrew
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Response To Andrew Gluck Regarding The New Worklife Expectancy Tables
Authors: Corcione Frank P.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
The Value Of An Individual's Life To Whom?: A Comment
Authors: Ireland Thomas R.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
A 1996 Study Of “Prevailing Practice” In Forensic Economics
Authors: Brookshire Michael , Slesnick Frank
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Lending Discrimination Claims And The Issue Of Redlining: Analysis Of Lending Patterns For An Individual Institution
Authors: Holmes Andrew , Horvitz Paul
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Duration Of Employment In Employment Discrimination Cases
Authors: Hughes Melvin
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
The Below-Market Method: A Rejoinder to Professor Gilbert
Authors: Peláez Rolando F.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Special Problems With Value-Of-Life Estimates Based On Wage-Risk Studies In The Miller Survey: A Note
Authors: Staller Jerome M. , Sullivan Brian P. , Friedman Edward A.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
The Daubert Decision And Forensic Economics
Authors: Ireland Thomas R.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Economic Science And Hedonic Damage Analysis In Light Of Daubert V. Merrell Dow
Authors: Ireland Thomas R. , Johnson Walter D. , Taylor Paul C.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
The Expert Witness And The Law Of Evidence: Impeachment And The Forensic Economist
Authors: Townsend Jules A.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Predicate Studies and Regression Analysis: A Look at Dade County
Authors: Lunn John , Steen Todd P. , Bonnema Thomas
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
The Distributional Effects Of Using A Before-Tax Standard In Damage Awards: A Reply
Authors: Harris William G.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Net Discount Rate Determination: A Reply
Authors: Haydon Randall B. , Webb Samuel C.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Recoverable Damages For Wrongful Death In The States
Authors: Schap David , Valvo Deirdre K.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Determination Of Personal Consumption Expenditures In Fatal Accident Actions: A Note
Authors: Bruce Christopher
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Regarding Median Years To Retirement And Worklife Expectancy
Authors: Ciecka James , Donley Thomas , Goldman Jerry
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Regarding Median Years To Retirement And Worklife Expectancy: Reply To Ciecka, Donley And Goldman
Authors: Hunt Tamorah , Pickersgill Joyce , Rutemiller Herbert
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Calculating Net Discount Rates—It's Time To Recognize Structural Changes: A Comment And Extension
Authors: Horvath Philip A. , Sattler Edward L.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Databook on Nonfatal Injury; Incidence, Costs and Consequences
Authors: Vernarelli Michael J.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
An Inquiry Into The Status Of Our Organization's Name And Other Issues: A Triple Sonnet (Within A Reasonable Degree Of Economic And Poetic Certainty) On N.A.F.E.
Authors: Smith Manuel
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Why Inflation-Indexed Treasury Securities Are Not Well Suited For Discounting A Future Earning Stream
Authors: Jayne Kent A.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Patton-Nelson Personal Consumption Tables Updated
Authors: Lierman Walter K. , Patton Robert T. , Nelson David M.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
The Economic Framework Of Personal Injury/Wrongful Death Damages
Authors: Schieren George A.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
The Forensic Economist In The International Setting: A Comment
Authors: Salazar-Carrillo Jorge
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
The Forensic Economist In The International Setting: A Reply And New Findings
Authors: Weisskoff Richard
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Abstract Jury Verdicts In Drunken Driving Cases
Authors: Smith Stan V.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
U.S. Life Tables For 1990 By Sex, Race, And Education
Authors: Richards Hugh , Barry Ronald
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
A Statistical Methodology For Measuring Lost Profit Resulting From A Loss Of Customers*
Authors: Bonanomi Laura , Gaughan Patrick A. , Taylor Larry W.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Forecasting Earnings Losses Of The Disabled With The LPE Method
Authors: Corcione Frank P. , Thornton Robert J.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Economic Damages Due To Spinal Cord Injuries: Trends And Policy Implications
Authors: Huettner David A. , Alhajji Anas F.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
The Use Of “Reverse Regression” In Employment Discrimination Analysis
Authors: White Paul F. , Piette Michael J.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Worklife Estimates by Occupation: A Comment
Authors: Gaskins Rick R. , Taylor Paul C.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Worklife Estimates By Occupation: A Reply
Authors: Richards Hugh
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Supramonetary Values, The Value Of Life, And The Utility Theory Meanings Of Tort Recovery
Authors: Ireland Thomas R. , Gilbert Roy
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
It's About Time: The Forensic Economic Evaluation
Authors: Krueger Kurt V. , Albrecht Gary R. , Ward John O.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Household Services: Toward A More Comprehensive Measure
Authors: Tinari Frank D.
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Why Inflation-Indexed Securities Are Not Poorly Suited For Discounting A Future Earnings Stream
Authors: Ireland Thomas
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Science On Trial – The Clash of Medical Evidence and the Law in the Breast Implant Case
Authors: Slesnick Frank
Published: July 2010

No abstract available.
Comparison of a global-climate model to a cloud-system resolving model for the long-term response of thin stratocumulus clouds to preindustrial and present-day aerosol conditions
Authors: Lee S. S. , Penner J. E.
Published: July 2010

Abstract. The response of a case of thin, warm marine-boundary-layer (MBL) clouds to preindustrial (PI) and present-day (PD) conditions is simulated by a cloud-system resolving model (CSRM). Here, both the aerosol conditions and environmental conditions match those of a general circulation model (GCM). The environmental conditions are characterized by the initial condition and the large-scale forcings of humidity and temperature, as well as the surface fluxes. The response of the CSRM is compared to that simulated by the GCM. The percentage increase of liquid-water path (LWP) due to a change from the PI to PD conditions is ~3 times larger in the CSRM than that in the GCM due to the formation of cumulus clouds. The formation of cumulus clouds is controlled by a larger increase in the surface latent-heat (LH) flux in the PD environment than in the PI environment rather than by the change in aerosols. However, the aerosol increase from the PI to PD level determines the LWP response in the stratocumulus clouds, while the impacts of changes in environmental conditions are negligible for stratocumulus clouds. The conversion of cloud liquid to rain through autoconversion and accretion plays a negligible role in the CSRM in the response to aerosols, whereas it plays a role that is as important as condensation in the GCM. Also, it is notable that the explicit simulation of microphysics in the CSRM leads to a smaller LWP in the CSRM than that in the GCM using heavily parameterized microphysics for stratocumulus clouds. The smaller LWP in the CSRM is closer to an observed LWP than the LWP in the GCM for stratocumulus clouds. Supplementary simulations show that increasing aerosols increase the sensitivity of the cloud responses to the PI and PD environmental conditions. They also show that aerosol effects on clouds depend on the cloud type. The LWP of warm cumulus clouds is more sensitive to aerosols than that of stratocumulus clouds.