bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of exposure measurement error in air pollution epidemiology: effect of error type in time-series studies
Authors: Goldman Gretchen T , Mulholland James A , Russell Armistead G , Strickland Matthew J , Klein Mitchel , Waller Lance A , Tolbert Paige E
Published: June 2011

Background

Two distinctly different types of measurement error are Berkson and classical. Impacts of measurement error in epidemiologic studies of ambient air pollution are expected to depend on error type. We characterize measurement error due to instrument imprecision and spatial variability as multiplicative (i.e. additive on the log scale) and model it over a range of error types to assess impacts on risk ratio estimates both on a per measurement unit basis and on a per interquartile range (IQR) basis in a time-series study in Atlanta.

Methods

Daily measures of twelve ambient air pollutants were analyzed: NO2, NOx, O3, SO2, CO, PM10 mass, PM2.5 mass, and PM2.5 components sulfate, nitrate, ammonium, elemental carbon and organic carbon. Semivariogram analysis was applied to assess spatial variability. Error due to this spatial variability was added to a reference pollutant time-series on the log scale using Monte Carlo simulations. Each of these time-series was exponentiated and introduced to a Poisson generalized linear model of cardiovascular disease emergency department visits.

Results

Measurement error resulted in reduced statistical significance for the risk ratio estimates for all amounts (corresponding to different pollutants) and types of error. When modelled as classical-type error, risk ratios were attenuated, particularly for primary air pollutants, with average attenuation in risk ratios on a per unit of measurement basis ranging from 18% to 92% and on an IQR basis ranging from 18% to 86%. When modelled as Berkson-type error, risk ratios per unit of measurement were biased away from the null hypothesis by 2% to 31%, whereas risk ratios per IQR were attenuated (i.e. biased toward the null) by 5% to 34%. For CO modelled error amount, a range of error types were simulated and effects on risk ratio bias and significance were observed.

Conclusions

For multiplicative error, both the amount and type of measurement error impact health effect estimates in air pollution epidemiology. By modelling instrument imprecision and spatial variability as different error types, we estimate direction and magnitude of the effects of error over a range of error types.
In vitro antimicrobial activity of ten medicinal plants against clinical isolates of oral cancer cases
Authors: Panghal Manju , Kaushal Vivek , Yadav Jaya P
Published: June 2011

Background

Suppression of immune system in treated cancer patients may lead to secondary infections that obviate the need of antibiotics. In the present study, an attempt was made to understand the occurrence of secondary infections in immuno-suppressed patients along with herbal control of these infections with the following objectives to: (a) isolate the microbial species from the treated oral cancer patients along with the estimation of absolute neutrophile counts of patients (b) assess the in vitro antimicrobial activity medicinal plants against the above clinical isolates.

Methods

Blood and oral swab cultures were taken from 40 oral cancer patients undergoing treatment in the radiotherapy unit of Regional Cancer Institute, Pt. B.D.S. Health University,

Rohtak, Haryana. Clinical isolates were identified by following general microbiological, staining and biochemical methods. The absolute neutrophile counts were done by following the standard methods. The medicinal plants selected for antimicrobial activity analysis were Asphodelus tenuifolius Cav., Asparagus racemosus Willd., Balanites aegyptiaca L., Cestrum diurnum L., Cordia dichotoma G. Forst, Eclipta alba L., Murraya koenigii (L.) Spreng. , Pedalium murex L., Ricinus communis L. and Trigonella foenum graecum L. The antimicrobial efficacy of medicinal plants was evaluated by modified Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. MIC and MFC were investigated by serial two fold microbroth dilution method.

Results

Prevalent bacterial pathogens isolated were Staphylococcus aureus (23.2%), Escherichia coli (15.62%), Staphylococcus epidermidis (12.5%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (9.37%), Klebsiella pneumonia (7.81%), Proteus mirabilis (3.6%), Proteus vulgaris (4.2%) and the fungal pathogens were Candida albicans (14.6%), Aspergillus fumigatus (9.37%). Out of 40 cases, 35 (87.5%) were observed as neutropenic. Eight medicinal plants (A. tenuifolius, A. racemosus, B. aegyptiaca, E. alba, M. koenigii, P. murex R. communis and T. foenum graecum) showed significant antimicrobial activity (P < .05) against most of the isolates. The MIC and MFC values were ranged from 31 to 500 μg/ml. P. aeruginosa was observed highest susceptible bacteria (46.6%) on the basis of susceptible index.

Conclusion

It can be concluded that treated oral cancer patients were neutropenic and prone to secondary infection of microbes. The medicinal plant can prove as effective antimicrobial agent to check the secondary infections in treated cancer patients.
The shrinking projection method for solving generalized equilibrium problems and common fixed points for asymptotically quasi-ϕ-nonexpansive mappings
Authors: Saewan Siwaporn , Kumam Poom
Published: June 2011

In this article, we introduce a new hybrid projection iterative scheme based on the shrinking projection method for finding a common element of the set of solutions of the generalized mixed equilibrium problems and the set of common fixed points for a pair of asymptotically quasi-ϕ-nonexpansive mappings in Banach spaces and set of variational inequalities for an α-inverse strongly monotone mapping. The results obtained in this article improve and extend the recent ones announced by Matsushita and Takahashi (Fixed Point Theory Appl. 2004(1):37-47, 2004), Qin et al. (Appl. Math. Comput. 215:3874-3883, 2010), Chang et al. (Nonlinear Anal. 73:2260-2270, 2010), Kamraksa and Wangkeeree (J. Nonlinear Anal. Optim.: Theory Appl. 1(1):55-69, 2010) and many others.

AMS Subject Classification: 47H05, 47H09, 47J25, 65J15.
NS4A protein as a marker of HCV history suggests that different HCV genotypes originally evolved from genotype 1b
Authors: Sarwar Muhammad T , Kausar Humera , Ijaz Bushra , Ahmad Waqar , Ansar Muhammad , Sumrin Aleena , Ashfaq Usman A , Asad Sultan , Gull Sana , Shahid Imran , Hassan Sajida
Published: June 2011

Background

The 9.6 kb long RNA genome of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is under the control of RNA dependent RNA polymerase, an error-prone enzyme, for its transcription and replication. A high rate of mutation has been found to be associated with RNA viruses like HCV. Based on genetic variability, HCV has been classified into 6 different major genotypes and 11 different subtypes. However this classification system does not provide significant information about the origin of the virus, primarily due to high mutation rate at nucleotide level. HCV genome codes for a single polyprotein of about 3011 amino acids which is processed into structural and non-structural proteins inside host cell by viral and cellular proteases.

Results

We have identified a conserved NS4A protein sequence for HCV genotype 3a reported from four different continents of the world i.e. Europe, America, Australia and Asia. We investigated 346 sequences and compared amino acid composition of NS4A protein of different HCV genotypes through Multiple Sequence Alignment and observed amino acid substitutions C22, V29, V30, V38, Q46 and Q47 in NS4A protein of genotype 1b. Furthermore, we observed C22 and V30 as more consistent members of NS4A protein of genotype 1a. Similarly Q46 and Q47 in genotype 5, V29, V30, Q46 and Q47 in genotype 4, C22, Q46 and Q47 in genotype 6, C22, V38, Q46 and Q47 in genotype 3 and C22 in genotype 2 as more consistent members of NS4A protein of these genotypes. So the different amino acids that were introduced as substitutions in NS4A protein of genotype 1 subtype 1b have been retained as consistent members of the NS4A protein of other known genotypes.

Conclusion

These observations indicate that NS4A protein of different HCV genotypes originally evolved from NS4A protein of genotype 1 subtype 1b, which in turn indicate that HCV genotype 1 subtype 1b established itself earlier in human population and all other known genotypes evolved later as a result of mutations in HCV genotype 1b. These results were further confirmed through phylogenetic analysis by constructing phylogenetic tree using NS4A protein as a phylogenetic marker.
Individually integrated traditional chinese medicine approach in the management of knee osteoarthritis: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yuelong Cao , Hongsheng Zhan , Jian Pang , Feiyue Li , Shaojian Xu , Jinghua Gao , Zhanwang Xu , Gang Li , Ting Liu , Chaoqing Guo , Yinyu Shi
Published: June 2011

Background

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is considered a major public health issue causing chronic disability worldwide with the increasing number of aging people. In China and increasingly worldwide, many sufferers with knee OA are using complementary and alternative medicine including herbal drug, herbal patch, acupuncture and Tuina etc., to alleviate their symptoms. However, evidence gathered from systematic reviews or randomized controlled trials (RCT) has only validated acupuncture for the management of osteoarthritic pain. Moreover, such Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) methods above are commonly used in an integrative way. This trial is aimed to compare the efficacy of an individually integrated TCM approach in the management of knee OA with other single treatments as parallel randomized controls.

Methods/design

Five teaching hospitals will participate in this randomized controlled trial. 500 participants, 100 in each hospital, will be randomly assigned to receive oral administration of a Chinese herbal drug (counter osteophytes capsule), topical use of a Chinese herbal patch (Fufnag Zijin patch), acupuncture, Tuina and the individually integrated TCM approach. The individually integrated TCM approach consists of basic treatment of oral counter osteophytes capsule, variable use of Tuina, acupuncture and a herbal patch based on the severity of the patient's symptoms.

The interventions are given for a period of 4 weeks. The primary outcome measure is the self-reported total score using the Western Ontario McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). Secondary outcome measures include patient and investigator global assessment of response to treatment, patient and investigator global assessment of OA condition, WOMAC pain, stiffness, and physical function subscales, short-form 36 (SF-36) and TCM assessment of OA condition measured by syndromes questionnaire. Mixed models and sensitivity analysis will be used for the statistical analysis.

Discussion

The trial is designed to test the hypothesis that an individually integrated TCM approach is more effective than four treatment modalities used separately. The major limitation of this study is lack of placebo control and of double blinding.

Trial Registration

Chinese Cochrane Center ChiCTR-TRC-00000176
Sodium arsenite and hyperthermia modulate cisplatin-DNA damage responses and enhance platinum accumulation in murine metastatic ovarian cancer xenograft after hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC)
Authors: Muenyi Clarisse S , States Vanessa A , Masters Joshua H , Fan Teresa W , Helm C William , States J Christopher
Published: June 2011

Background

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the leading cause of gynecologic cancer death in the USA. Recurrence rates are high after front-line therapy and most patients eventually die from platinum (Pt) - resistant disease. Cisplatin resistance is associated with increased nucleotide excision repair (NER), decreased mismatch repair (MMR) and decreased platinum uptake. The objective of this study is to investigate how a novel combination of sodium arsenite (NaAsO2) and hyperthermia (43°C) affect mechanisms of cisplatin resistance in ovarian cancer.

Methods

We established a murine model of metastatic EOC by intraperitoneal injection of A2780/CP70 human ovarian cancer cells into nude mice. We developed a murine hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy model to treat the mice. Mice with peritoneal metastasis were perfused for 1 h with 3 mg/kg cisplatin ± 26 mg/kg NaAsO2 at 37 or 43°C. Tumors and tissues were collected at 0 and 24 h after treatment.

Results

Western blot analysis of p53 and key NER proteins (ERCC1, XPC and XPA) and MMR protein (MSH2) suggested that cisplatin induced p53, XPC and XPA and suppressed MSH2 consistent with resistant phenotype. Hyperthermia suppressed cisplatin-induced XPC and prevented the induction of XPA by cisplatin, but it had no effect on Pt uptake or retention in tumors. NaAsO2 prevented XPC induction by cisplatin; it maintained higher levels of MSH2 in tumors and enhanced initial accumulation of Pt in tumors. Combined NaAsO2 and hyperthermia decreased cisplatin-induced XPC 24 h after perfusion, maintained higher levels of MSH2 in tumors and significantly increased initial accumulation of Pt in tumors. ERCC1 levels were generally low except for NaAsO2 co-treatment with cisplatin. Systemic Pt and arsenic accumulation for all treatment conditions were in the order: kidney > liver = spleen > heart > brain and liver > kidney = spleen > heart > brain respectively. Metal levels generally decreased in systemic tissues within 24 h after treatment.

Conclusion

NaAsO2 and/or hyperthermia have the potential to sensitize tumors to cisplatin by inhibiting NER, maintaining functional MMR and enhancing tumor platinum uptake.
Visceral adiposity, insulin resistance and cancer risk
Authors: Donohoe Claire L , Doyle Suzanne L , Reynolds John V
Published: June 2011

Background

There is a well established link between obesity and cancer. Emerging research is characterising this relationship further and delineating the specific role of excess visceral adiposity, as opposed to simple obesity, in promoting tumorigenesis. This review summarises the evidence from an epidemiological and pathophysiological perspective.

Methods

Relevant medical literature was identified from searches of PubMed and references cited in appropriate articles identified. Selection of articles was based on peer review, journal and relevance.

Results

Numerous epidemiological studies consistently identify increased risk of developing carcinoma in the obese. Adipose tissue, particularly viscerally located fat, is metabolically active and exerts systemic endocrine effects. Putative pathophysiological mechanisms linking obesity and carcinogenesis include the paracrine effects of adipose tissue and systemic alterations associated with obesity. Systemic changes in the obese state include chronic inflammation and alterations in adipokines and sex steroids. Insulin and the insulin-like growth factor axis influence tumorigenesis and also have a complex relationship with adiposity. There is evidence to suggest that insulin and the IGF axis play an important role in mediating obesity associated malignancy.

Conclusions

There is much evidence to support a role for obesity in cancer progression, however further research is warranted to determine the specific effect of excess visceral adipose tissue on tumorigenesis. Investigation of the potential mechanisms underpinning the association, including the role of insulin and the IGF axis, will improve understanding of the obesity and cancer link and may uncover targets for intervention.
Technical Advance: Langerhans cells derived from a human cell line in a full-thickness skin equivalent undergo allergen-induced maturation and migration
Authors: Ouwehand Krista , Spiekstra Sander W , Waaijman Taco , Scheper Rik J , de Gruijl Tanja D , Gibbs Susan
Published: June 2011

In this report, the construction of a functional, immunocompetent, full-thickness skin equivalent (SE) is described, consisting of an epidermal compartment containing keratinocytes, melanocytes, and human LCs derived from the MUTZ-3 cell line (MUTZ-LC) and a fibroblast-populated dermal compartment. The CD1a+Langerin+HLA-DR+ MUTZ-LCs populate the entire epidermis at a similar density to that found in native skin. Exposure of the SE to subtoxic concentrations of the allergens NiSO4 and resorcinol resulted in LC migration out of the epidermis toward the fibroblast-populated dermal compartment. A significant dose-dependent up-regulation of the DC maturation-related CCR7 and IL-1β transcripts and of CD83 at the protein level upon epidermal exposure to both allergens was observed, indicative of maturation and migration of the epidermally incorporated LC. We have thus successfully developed a reproducible and functional full-thickness SE model containing epidermal MUTZ-LC. This model offers an alternative to animal testing for identifying potential chemical sensitizers and for skin-based vaccination strategies and provides a unique research tool to study human LC biology in situ under controlled in vitro conditions.
Designing a secure data communications system for automatic train control
Authors: Bantin C C , Siu J
Published: June 2011

The communication-based train control systems for the urban rail environment rely on accurate and secure communications between the system components, which typically include computers on-board the trains, along the wayside and in a control centre. Radio links are used for the mobile train-to-wayside communications, and these links are interconnected to the control system through an Ethernet fibre optic backbone. The radio links, however, are vulnerable to unwanted intrusion and potential security attacks. The challenge for the network designer is to put in place sufficient controls and operating practices that the train control system is not just secure from operational disruptions but is also secured against deliberate attack by malicious intruders. The data communication system (DCS) is implemented using straightforward principles such as commercial off-the-shelf equipment, open standards, stand-alone network operation, and compliance to relevant network security and communication standards. To meet the challenge of securing such a network, a strict assessment process is employed to identify and classify the possible threats, assess the potential harm they can cause, and determine what levels of protection are required and what residual risk there is to safety and operational integrity. The Thales ComTracTM DCS network design is robust, provides the full operational availability needed by the train operators, and above all is secure.
Effects of wire-bottom caging on heart rate, activity and body temperature in telemetry-implanted rats
Authors: Girai Marta , García-Olmo Dolores C , Kramer Klaas
Published: June 2011

Some experimental procedures are associated with placement of animals in wire-bottom cages. The goal of this study was to evaluate stress-related physiological parameters (heart rate [HR], body temperature [BT], locomotor activity [LA], body weight [BW] and food consumption) in rats under two housing conditions, namely in wire-bottom cages and in bedding-bottom cages. Telemetry devices were surgically implanted in male Sprague-Dawley rats. HR, BT and LA were recorded at 5 min intervals. Analysis under each housing condition was performed from 16:00 to 08:00 h of the following day (4 h light, 12 h dark). During almost all of the light phase, the HR of rats housed in wire-bottom cages remained high (371 ± 35 bpm; mean ± SD; n = 6) and was significantly different from that of rats housed in bedding-bottom cages (340 ± 29 bpm; n = 6; P < 0.001; Student's t-test). In general, BT was similar under the two housing conditions. However, when rats were in wire-bottom cages, BT tended to fluctuate more widely during the dark phase. LA decreased when animals were housed in wire-bottom cages, in particular during the dark phase. Moreover, there was a significant difference with respect to the gain in BW: BW of rats housed in bedding-bottom cages increased 12 ± 2 g, whereas that of rats in wire-bottom cages decreased by 2 ± 3 g ( P < 0.001). Our results demonstrate that housing rats in wire-bottom cages overnight leads to immediate alterations of HR, BW and LA, which might be related to a stress response.
An Integrin α4β7•IgG Heterodimeric Chimera Binds to MAdCAM-1 on High Endothelial Venules in Gut-Associated Lymphoid Tissue
Authors: Hoshino Hitomi , Kobayashi Motohiro , Mitoma Junya , Sato Yoshiko , Fukuda Minoru , Nakayama Jun
Published: June 2011

Lymphocyte homing is regulated by a multistep process mediated by sequential adhesive interactions between circulating lymphocytes and high endothelial venules (HEVs). In gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT), the initial interactive step, “tethering and rolling,” is partly mediated by integrin α4β7 expressed on GALT-homing lymphocytes and its ligand MAdCAM-1, which is exclusively expressed on HEVs in GALT. To probe functional MAdCAM-1 in tissue sections, we developed a soluble integrin α4β7 heterodimeric IgG chimera by joining the extracellular region of mouse integrin α4 and β7 subunits to a human IgG Fc domain. Western blot analysis revealed that co-transfection of HEK 293T cells with expression vectors encoding integrin α4•IgG and β7•IgG results in the formation of α4β7•IgG heterodimeric chimeras. This complex preferentially binds to CHO cells expressing MAdCAM-1 and, to a lesser extent, to cells expressing VCAM-1, but not to cells expressing ICAM-1. Moreover, α4β7•IgG specifically binds to HEVs in GALT in situ in a divalent cation–dependent fashion and inhibits lymphocyte binding to HEVs in GALT. These findings indicate that α4β7•IgG can be used as a probe for functional MAdCAM-1 expressed on HEVs in GALT and could potentially serve as an anti-inflammatory drug inhibiting GALT-specific lymphocyte migration.
Syndecan-1 and Syndecan-4 Are Independent Indicators in Breast Carcinoma
Authors: Lendorf Maria E. , Manon-Jensen Tina , Kronqvist Pauliina , Multhaupt Hinke A. B. , Couchman John R.
Published: June 2011

Syndecan proteoglycans may be key regulators of tumor invasion and metastasis because this four-member family of transmembrane receptors regulates cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation. Their expression can also serve as prognostic markers. In breast carcinomas, syndecan-1 overexpression correlates with poor prognosis and aggressive phenotype. Syndecan-4 is expressed in most breast carcinoma cell lines, but its role in malignancy is unclear. A possible relationship between syndecan-1 and syndecan-4 expression and established prognostic factors in breast carcinomas was examined. Duplicate samples of 114 benign and malignant breast disease cases were stained for the two syndecans. Clinicopathological information was available for all cases. Syndecan-1 was detected in 72.8% of cases, with significant association between its expression and histological tumor type ( p<0.05) and high grade tumors ( p<0.05). Syndecan-4 was expressed in 66.7% of cases; expression correlated significantly with positive estrogen ( p<0.01) and progesterone ( p<0.01) receptor status. Independent expression of the two syndecans was noted from an analysis of single and double positive cases. There was a statistical relationship between syndecan-1 presence in high-grade tumors and absence of syndecan-4, whereas syndecan-4 presence in cases positive for estrogen and progesterone receptor associated with syndecan-1 absence. These syndecans may, therefore, have distinct roles in regulating breast carcinoma cell behavior.
Differential Distribution of Posttranslationally Modified Microtubules in Osteoclasts
Authors: Akisaka Toshitaka , Yoshida Hisaho , Takigawa Toshiya
Published: June 2011

The differential distribution of microtubules in osteoclasts in culture was examined by using antibodies against acetylated, tyrosinated, or detyrosinated tubulins. Tyrosinated tubulin was found throughout the cytoplasmic microtubules in all cells examined. An expanding protrusion that contained tyrosinated tubulin but none of the detyrosinated or acetylated form was seen in the immature osteoclasts. Detyrosinated or acetylated tubulin was detectable in the peripheral cytoplasm of the mature osteoclasts displaying the loss of the expanding protrusion. Although most of the microtubules were derived from the centrosome, noncentrosomal microtubules were distributed in the expanding protrusion, which was predominantly positive for tyrosinated tubulin. By tracing single microtubules, the authors found that their growing ends were always rich in tyrosinated tubulin subunits. End binding protein 1 bound preferentially to the microtubule ends. Both acetylated and tyrosinated microtubules were shown to be closely associated with podosomes. Microtubules appeared to grow over or into the podosomes; in addition, the growing ends of single microtubules could be observed to target the podosomes. Moreover, a microtubule-associated histone deacetylase 6 was localized in the podosomes of the osteoclast. On the basis of these results, the authors conclude that posttranslational modifications of microtubules may correlate with characteristic changes in podosome dynamics in osteoclasts.
Different Patterns of Mast Cells Distinguish Diffuse from Encapsulated Neurofibromas in Patients with Neurofibromatosis 1
Authors: Tucker Tracy , Riccardi Vincent M. , Sutcliffe Margaret , Vielkind Juergen , Wechsler Janine , Wolkenstein Pierre , Friedman Jan M.
Published: June 2011

Multiple neurofibromas are cardinal features of neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1). Several different types of NF1-associated neurofibromas occur, each distinct in terms of pathological details, clinical presentation, and natural history. Mast cells are present in most neurofibromas and have been shown to be critical to the origin and progression of neurofibromas in both human NF1 and relevant mouse models. In this investigation, the authors determined whether mast cell involvement is the same for all types of NF1-associated neurofibromas. They examined the density and distribution of mast cells within 49 NF1-associated neurofibromas classified histopathologically as diffuse or encapsulated on the basis of the presence or absence of the perineurium or its constituent cells. They made two observations: (1) Diffuse neurofibromas had significantly higher densities of mast cells than did encapsulated neurofibromas, and (2) mast cells were evenly distributed throughout diffuse neurofibromas but were primarily restricted to the periphery of encapsulated neurofibromas. The differences in mast cell density and distribution differentiate the two basic types of NF1-associated neurofibromas, suggesting that the pathogenesis of diffuse and encapsulated neurofibromas may be significantly different.
The Open Microcirculation in Human Spleens
Authors: Steiniger Birte , Bette Michael , Schwarzbach Hans
Published: June 2011

It has long been debated whether the red pulp of human spleens harbors an open or a closed microcirculation or both. To solve this issue, the authors differentially stained the endothelium in red pulp arterial microvessels and in venous sinuses using brightfield and fluorescence immunohistology with reagents against CD34 and CD141. Three-dimensional models of red pulp arterial microvessels and sinuses were derived from serial double-stained paraffin sections with the help of license-free open-access software. In each model, arterial microvascular ends were traced and verified by reference to the original serial sections. In total, 142 ends were analyzed in the specimens of three individuals. None of these ends was connected to a sinus, suggesting that the human splenic red pulp harbors an entirely open circulatory system. Thus, the spleen is the only human organ where blood passes through spaces not lined by endothelia or other barrier-forming cells.
The inflammatory changes of adipose tissue in late pregnant mice
Authors: Zhang Lingyun , Sugiyama Takashi , Murabayashi Nao , Umekawa Takashi , Ma Ning , Kamimoto Yuki , Ogawa Yoshihiro , Sagawa Norimasa
Published: June 2011

The infiltration of classically activated macrophages (M1) and alternatively activated macrophages (M2) in subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and parametrial adipose tissue (PAT) was analyzed to investigate whether local inflammatory change in adipose tissue occurs in late pregnancy. C57BL/6N female mice at 6 weeks of age were fed a normal chow diet for 4 weeks prior to mating at 10 weeks of age and were sampled on day 17 of pregnancy. The serum levels of adipokines and biochemical markers were measured using ELISA and enzymatic methods. The identification of M1 and M2 was analyzed by double immunofluorescence with anti-F4/80 and anti-CD11c antibodies. The gene expression of adipokines in adipose tissues was analyzed by quantitative RT-PCR. The pregnant group showed adipocyte hypertrophy, higher macrophage infiltration, and higher M1/M2 in both SAT and PAT compared with the non-pregnant (NP) group. Serum levels of free fatty acids, tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), interleukin 6 (IL6), and IL10 were higher, and serum levels of adiponectin were lower in the pregnant group than those in the NP group. The gene expressions of CD68, Itgax, CCR2, TNFα, and PAI1 in SAT during pregnancy were significantly higher than those in the NP group, as were the gene expressions of CD68, Emrl, Itgax, MCP1, TNFα, IL6, PAI1, adiponectin, and IL10 in PAT. These results suggest that the low-grade inflammation of adipose tissue indicated by increased macrophage infiltration occurs in late normal pregnancy.
Structural and Magnetic Properties of La0.7Sr0.3Mn1-xNixO3 (x=0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4)
Authors: Creel Thomas F. , Yang Jinbo B. , Kahveci Mehmet , Lamsal Jagat , Malik Satish K. , Quezado S. , Benapfl B. W. , Blackstead H. , Pringle O. A. , Yelon William B. , James William J.
Published: June 2011

We have studied the structural and magnetic properties of La0.7Sr0.3Mn1-xNixO3 (x=0.05, 0.10, 0.20, 0.30, and 0.40) perovskites using x-ray and neutron diffraction and magnetic measurements. To our knowledge, there exists no neutron diffraction data available for this group of perovskite compositions. Neutron (λ = 1.479Å) and x-ray (λ = 1.5481Å; Cu Kα) powder diffraction indicate that for x ≥ 0.1 all samples are two-phase with a rhombohedral perovskite structure (space group R-3c) and a small amount of NiO (space group Fm3m). Neutron diffraction data for the perovskite phase at 12K and 300K show ferromagnetic ordering for x ≤ 0.2 and antiferromagnetic ordering for x = 0.4. However, for x = 0.3, neutron diffraction data at 12K show coexisting ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic ordering while at 300K no magnetic ordering is found. Magnetic measurements indicate that the Curie temperature decreases with increasing Ni content. The NiO phase for all samples was found to have antiferromagnetic ordering at 12K and 300K. The magnetic measurements are consistent with the neutron diffraction data and together indicate long-range magnetic ordering for samples at low temperature and transitions from ferromagnetic to paramagnetic to antiferromagnetic ordering for samples at room temperature.
Genetic Control of Interspecific‐Derived and Juvenile Resistance in Lentil to Colletotrichum truncatum
Authors: Vail S. , Vandenberg A.
Published: June 2011

Anthracnose, caused by Colletotrichum truncatum (Ct), is a major disease of lentil (Lens culinaris ssp. culinaris Medik.; Lcc) on the Canadian prairies. Resistance to the more virulent race Ct0 of the pathogen is extremely rare within the Lcc gene pool; partial resistance to race Ct0 in Lcc breaks down as the plant progresses through the adult phase (AP). Resistance was introgressed from Lens ervoides (Le) and the F1 and F2 generations of two introgression populations assessed for resistance when inoculated separately with both races of Ct. One population was tested with race Ct0 at both the juvenile phase (JP) and AP. F2:3 families were also tested for race Ct0 resistance. Resistance from Le to both races of Ct appears to be due to the same gene(s) or tightly linked genes. Different models for genetic control of resistance between populations are observed depending on whether the interspecific line is crossed into a susceptible or partially resistant Lcc background; however, duplicate recessive epistasis seems to control susceptibility in the susceptible background and when juvenile resistance is not a factor. Significant differences between phases were evident for more than a third of the F2s tested, supporting different resistance gene action based on growth phase; resistance in the JP seemed to be due to dominant and recessive epistasis. Results suggest genetic control of juvenile resistance in combination with interspecific‐derived resistance is complex.
Coexistence in Maize: Effect on Pollen‐Mediated Gene Flow by Conventional Maize Border Rows Edging Genetically Modified Maize Fields
Authors: Rühl Gerhard , Hommel Bernd , Hüsken Alexandra , Mastel Klaus , Schiemann Joachim , Wehling Peter , Langhof Maren
Published: June 2011

In addition to or as substitution for a regulated isolation distance, conventional maize (Zea mays L.) border rows at the genetically modified (GM) maize field edge are considered as feasible measure to ensure coexistence between GM and conventional or organic maize. Therefore, we examined the effectiveness of 9‐m‐ and 18‐m‐wide non‐GM maize borders at the GM maize field edge on outcrossing rates into a neighboring non‐GM maize field. One field experiment each was conducted in 2008 at three sites in Germany using a field orientation representing a worst‐case scenario concerning wind direction. In each case, the distance between GM and non‐GM maize fields was 51 m. At two sites, sizes of GM and non‐GM maize fields were 0.8 ha, respectively, and at the third site 0.5 ha (GM) and 0.3 ha (non‐GM). The GM percentages of individual samples taken at recipient field depths between 0 and 90 m were quantified by real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Overall, no pollen‐mediated gene flow reducing effect of border rows was observed in the present study, although synchrony of anthesis between GM maize and border row maize was given at each site. Calculated GM contents of the total non‐GM fields harvest were always below the European Union labeling threshold of 0.9%. In consequence, planting 9‐m‐ or 18‐m‐wide conventional maize border rows at the GM field edge is no reliable coexistence measure, at least if combined with an isolation distance.
Field‐Based Measurement of Ammonia Volatilization Following Foliar Applications of Urea to Putting Green Turf
Authors: Stiegler J. Chris , Richardson Michael D. , Karcher Douglas E. , Roberts Trenton L. , Norman Richard J.
Published: June 2011

Data are lacking in the quantification of N loss mechanisms associated with foliar fertilizer applications that are common to golf course and putting green turfgrass management. This study was conducted to measure ammonia (NH3) volatilization after application of foliar N (as urea) to creeping bentgrass [Agrostis stolonifera L. var. palustris (Huds.) Farw. cv. Penn A1] and hybrid bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. × C. transvaalensis Burtt Davy cv. Tifeagle] putting greens in Fayetteville, AR. Urea was spray‐applied monthly, May through September, at rates of 0.5 and 1.25 g N m−2. Ammonia (NH3) volatilization, over a 24 h period, was measured via boric acid trapping within closed, static diffusion chambers. Month of year and N rate significantly affected the amount of N volatilized from the turfgrass canopy. Measured NH3 volatilization was consistently low each year for both species, with average annual NH3 volatilization of 0.35% and 2.55% from creeping bentgrass and hybrid bermudagrass, respectively. A trapping efficiency study was conducted and revealed that 35 to 50% of evolved NH3–N was directly absorbed by plant tissue enclosed within the chambers. While it was determined that the NH3 trapping methodology used here could not account for all of the NH3 volatilized, data from this study does support the conclusion that foliar N (as urea) applications to putting green turf can be made to actively growing plant tissue throughout the season without concern for substantial N loss via NH3 volatilization.
Grass Pea as a Nitrogen Source for Continuous No‐Till Winter Wheat
Authors: Rao Srinivas C. , Northup Brian K.
Published: June 2011

Sources and methods of use of organic nitrogen (N) in the southern Great Plains (SGP) need testing to find alternatives to increasingly expensive inorganic fertilizer. We examined the function of grass pea (Lathyrus sativus L.), a cool‐season pulse, as a preplant N source for continuous, no‐till winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The study was conducted in central Oklahoma (35°40'N, 98°00' W, elevation 414 masl) from 2004 to 2008, on three replicate blocks of four experimental plots (6 by 10 m). Inoculated grass pea seed (‘AC‐Greenfix’) was sown during late summer fallow (mid‐August) in one randomly chosen plot per block (75 kg ha−1, 60‐cm rows; 75% germination). Three additional plots per block mimicked summer fallow with 0 (control), 40, or 80 kg N ha−1 inorganic fertilizer applied. All treatments were repeated on the same plots throughout the study. Samples were collected from grass pea plots at flowering in early October to define aboveground biomass and analyzed for N concentration and digestibility. Aboveground biomass of grass pea was shredded with a flail mower and left on the soil surface, fertilizer treatments were applied, and wheat (‘Jagger’) was sown (100 kg ha−1, 20‐cm rows). Aboveground wheat biomass was collected at three growth stages (elongation, flowering, physiological maturity) and analyzed for N concentration. Grass pea aboveground biomass contained enough N to meet the needs of wheat at planting in only 1 yr. Wheat biomass and amounts of N in wheat aboveground biomass in response to grass pea were intermediate between the 0 and 40 kg applied N ha−1, as was yield and N accumulated in wheat grain. Therefore, grass pea was not effective as a preplant source of N for continuous no‐till winter wheat in the SGP. Additional research is required to define factors that limit the function of grass pea as a source of N for continuous no‐till winter wheat and its potential function in other crop rotations.
Carbohydrate and Nitrogen Reserves Relative to Regrowth Dynamics of ‘Tifton 85’ Bermudagrass as Affected by Nitrogen Fertilization
Authors: Alderman P. D. , Boote K. J. , Sollenberger L. E. , Coleman S. W.
Published: June 2011

Carbohydrate and N reserves are important for perennial grass regrowth after defoliation. The objective of this study was to quantify the effects of N fertilization on dynamics of reserve accumulation and utilization for regrowth of a C4 perennial grass. A field study was conducted at Gainesville, FL, on established ‘Tifton 85’ bermudagrass (Cynodon spp.) in 2006 and 2007. Treatments were N rates of 0, 45, 90, and 135 kg N ha−1 regrowth period−1. Total nonstructural carbohydrate (TNC) and N concentrations, leaf area index (LAI), and canopy carbon exchange rate (CER) were measured weekly during 28‐d regrowth periods. Stem and rhizome TNC concentrations decreased with increasing N rate, ranging from 20 to 80 mg g−1 for stem and 45 to 145 mg g−1 for rhizome, and followed quadratic time trends, with minima between 7 and 14 d of regrowth, suggesting reserve utilization up to 2 wk after defoliation. Leaf, stem, rhizome, and root N concentrations increased with N rate. Leaf and stem N concentrations followed quadratic time trends, with maxima between 7 and 14 d of regrowth, and ranged from 15 to 50 mg g−1 for leaf and 10 to 40 mg g−1 for stem. Rhizome N concentrations were constant throughout regrowth. Canopy CER and LAI followed logistic time trends within each 28‐d regrowth period, with upper asymptotes raised by increased N rate. Nitrogen fertilization increased TNC reserve utilization, LAI, and canopy CER, thereby increasing shoot regrowth at rates up to 90 kg N ha−1 period−1.
A Ds Insertional Mutant of a Barley miR172 Gene Results in Indeterminate Spikelet Development
Authors: Brown Ryan H. , Bregitzer Phil
Published: June 2011

A simple, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and agarose gel‐based system was used to efficiently detect barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) lines with novel transpositions of a modified maize (Zea mays L.) Ds element. One line contained a Ds insertion in a gene critical to barley spike development which appears to be a regulatory component of the ABC model of floral development. This model, elucidated based on studies of dicots, is widely conserved and function of key genes–such as AP2–have been demonstrated in monocots such as rice (Oryza sativa L.) and maize, but significant differences in orthologous gene function exist. This report describes the generation of a Ds‐insertional mutant of a putative barley ortholog of miR172. The miR172 family of microRNAs (miRNAs) includes a member shown to control the expression of AP2 and AP2‐like orthologs during floral development. The Ds‐miR172 mutant contains a 3.6 kb insertion in the mature miRNA sequence, thus abolishing function, and the associated floral abnormalities are consistent with the failure to properly regulate the barley AP2 ortholog. Ds‐miR172 mutants show abnormal spikelet development, including the conversion of glumes to partially developed florets in apical regions of spikes. Basal regions of the spike show an abnormal branching phenotype resulting from indeterminate spikelet meristem development, with each branch consisting of multiple, abnormal spikelets and other floral organs in place of a single spikelet. This phenotype is similar to ts4 in maize, the only other known mutation affecting a miR172 ortholog.
Identification of Tobacco Haploids on the Basis of Transgenic Overexpression of PAP1 from Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Lewis Ramsey S. , Rose Cara
Published: June 2011

Haploid plants have utility in plant breeding for several purposes. In tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) gynogenic haploids can be produced from seed due to parthenogenesis. For practical use, a system is needed to identify infrequent haploid plants at the seed or seedling stage. Interspecific hybridization with N. africana is presently used to isolate gynogenic tobacco haploids because a suitable dominant seedling marker does not currently exist for N. tabacum. Here we investigated the utility of a purple seedling trait conferred by overexpression of the Arabidopsis gene, PAP1, to identify gynogenic haploids produced from seed. Two tobacco cultivars were crossed as females with a genetic stock homozygous at two 35S:PAP1 transgene loci. Gynogenic haploids were recognized as green seedlings among purple F1 hybrid seedlings. The average frequency of gynogenic haploidy using this system was f = 0.00027. For comparison, the same cultivars were also hybridized as females with N. africana. The average frequency of gynogenic haploidy using this system was approximately seven times higher than that observed for the 35S:PAP1 system. Having a dominant seedling marker for N. tabacum may permit development of genetic stocks that contribute to an increased predisposition for haploid formation via parthenogenesis. In addition, the 35S:PAP1 genetic marker may have utility for identifying androgenic haploids from seed for the purpose of rapidly generating alloplasmic lines of tobacco.
Rumen‐Degradable Protein in Roll‐Conditioned or Macerated Legume Hays and Silages Estimated by In Situ Kinetics vs. Alternative Methods
Authors: Grabber J. H. , Coblentz W. K. , Broderick G. A.
Published: June 2011

Alternatives to the in situ method for estimating rumen‐degradable protein (RDP) in diverse forage legumes should be validated. In this study, RDP in roll‐conditioned or macerated silages and hays of Medicago, Lotus, and Trifolium species with differing polyphenol compositions were estimated from in situ degradation kinetics, a rumen microbial inhibitor in vitro assay, a 10‐h in situ incubation, the Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System, and a 16‐h in vitro Streptomyces griseus protease digestion. Forage species, conditioning, and conservation methods influenced RDP estimates. In situ kinetic RDP could be ranked or in some cases accurately predicted by other RDP methods, but the protease method performed poorly for macerated forages.
Doubled Haploids in Tropical Maize: I. Effects of Inducers and Source Germplasm on in vivo Haploid Induction Rates
Authors: Prigge Vanessa , Sánchez Ciro , Dhillon Baldev S. , Schipprack Wolfgang , Araus José Luis , Bänziger Marianne , Melchinger Albrecht E.
Published: June 2011

The adoption of the doubled haploid (DH) technology in tropical maize (Zea mays L.) breeding programs is lagging behind that of temperate programs due to a lack of tropical haploid inducers and reliable information on the performance of temperate inducers under nontemperate conditions. The objective of this study was to determine the in vivo haploid induction ability of three temperate inducers crossed to a diverse set of tropical maize source germplasm under tropical conditions. Three experiments were conducted employing inducers as male parents to pollinate 120 source germplasm in three environments in Mexico. Haploid induction rates (HIR) obtained under field conditions were determined with two different haploid identification systems. Highly significant genotypic differences were detected among inducers and source germplasm for HIR but no interactions were observed between the two factors. Mean HIR under tropical conditions were similar to those reported for evaluations under temperate conditions indicating that temperate inducers can be employed for initiation of DH breeding programs in the tropics. Misclassification of diploids as haploids resulted in inflated HIR, particularly in highly variable source germplasm such as landraces or when expression of the identification marker was weak. We conclude that induction of haploidy is not a limiting factor for DH line production in tropical maize, but there is a need for the development of well‐adapted tropical inducers.
Elevated Growing Degree Days Influence Transition Stage Timing During Cotton Fiber Development Resulting in Increased Fiber‐Bundle Strength
Authors: Hinchliffe Doug J. , Meredith William R. , Delhom Christopher D. , Thibodeaux Devron P. , Fang David D.
Published: June 2011

Growing degree days required for cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) growth and development were recorded for four growing seasons and compared with fiber‐quality measurements and gene expression data indicative of different stages of fiber development. Fiber‐bundle strength differences between the Upland cotton near‐isogenic lines MD 52ne and MD 90ne were observed using immature and mature fibers collected at different time points of development stages. Previously characterized fiber‐bundle‐strength differences between the near‐isogenic lines, known as a result of early entrance into the transition stage of fiber development, were present as early as 20 d postanthesis and persisted to boll opening and fiber maturity. The onset of transition stage was correlated with the accumulated degree day heat units from the day of anthesis in both cotton lines in all seasons. Fiber‐quality measurements obtained over multiple growing seasons indicated that an earlier entrance into the transition stage of fiber development resulted in increased fiber‐bundle strength. These data suggest that the identification of genes associated with early entrance into the transition stage can be used to temporally manipulate fiber development and improve fiber quality.