bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioinformatics Resources and Tools for Phage Display
Authors: Huang Jian , Ru Beibei , Dai Ping
Published: January 2011

Databases and computational tools for mimotopes have been an important part of phage display study. Five special databases and eighteen algorithms, programs and web servers and their applications are reviewed in this paper. Although these bioinformatics resources have been widely used to exclude target-unrelated peptides, characterize small molecules-protein interactions and map protein-protein interactions, a lot of problems are still waiting to be solved. With the improvement of these tools, they are expected to serve the phage display community better.
Schistosomicidal Activity of the Essential Oil of Ageratum conyzoides L. (Asteraceae) against Adult Schistosoma mansoni Worms
Authors: De Melo Nathalya I. , Magalhaes Lizandra G. , De Carvalho Carlos E. , Wakabayashi Kamila A. L. , De P. Aguiar Gabriela , Ramos Rafael C. , Mantovani Andre L. L. , Turatti Izabel C. C. , Rodrigues Vanderlei , Groppo Milton , Cunha Wilson R. , Veneziani Rodrigo C. S. , Crotti Antônio E. M.
Published: January 2011

The in vitro schistosomicidal effects of the essential oil of Ageratum conyzoides L. (Ac-EO) against adult worms of Schistosoma mansoni is reported in this paper. Concerning this activity, Ac-EO was considered to be active, but less effective than the positive control (praziquantel, PZQ) in terms of separation of coupled pairs, mortality, decrease in motor activity, and tegumental alterations. However, Ac-EO caused an interesting dose-dependent reduction in the number of eggs of S. mansoni. Precocene I (74.30%) and (E)-caryophyllene (14.23%) were identified as the two major constituents of Ac-EO. These compounds were tested individually and were found to be much less effective than Ac-EO and PZQ. A mixture of the two major compounds in a ratio similar to that found in the Ac-EO was also less effective than Ac-EO, thus revealing that there are no synergistic effects between these components. These results suggest that the essential oil of A. conyzoides is very promising for the development of new schistosomicidal agents.
Original Fluorescent Ligand-Based Assays Open New Perspectives in G-Protein Coupled Receptor Drug Screening
Authors: Cottet Martin , Faklaris Orestis , Zwier Jurriaan M. , Trinquet Eric , Pin Jean-Philippe , Durroux Thierry
Published: January 2011

The identification of new drugs exhibiting reduced adverse side-effects constitutes a great challenge for the next decade. Various steps are needed to screen for good ligand candidates and one of them is the evaluation of their binding properties. New strategies based on fluorescence measurement constitute excellent alternatives to the traditional radioactive assays. Less hazardous, faster and cheaper, these methods also exhibit very good sensitivity and can be used on various biological models such as heterologous expression systems or native tissues.
Wave Measurements Using GPS Velocity Signals
Authors: Doong Dong-Jiing , Lee Beng-Chun , Kao Chia Chuen
Published: January 2011

This study presents the idea of using GPS-output velocity signals to obtain wave measurement data. The application of the transformation from a velocity spectrum to a displacement spectrum in conjunction with the directional wave spectral theory are the core concepts in this study. Laboratory experiments were conducted to verify the accuracy of the inversed displacement of the surface of the sea. A GPS device was installed on a moored accelerometer buoy to verify the GPS-derived wave parameters. It was determined that loss or drifting of the GPS signal, as well as energy spikes occurring in the low frequency band led to erroneous measurements. Through the application of moving average skill and a process of frequency cut-off to the GPS output velocity, correlations between GPS-derived, and accelerometer buoy-measured significant wave heights and periods were both improved to 0.95. The GPS-derived one-dimensional and directional wave spectra were in agreement with the measurements. Despite the direction verification showing a 10° bias, this exercise still provided useful information with sufficient accuracy for a number of specific purposes. The results presented in this study indicate that using GPS output velocity is a reasonable alternative for the measurement of ocean waves.
Soil Water Surplus in Salado River Basin and Its Variability during the Last Forty Years (Buenos Aires Province, Argentina)
Authors: Scarpati Olga Eugenia , Spescha Liliana Beatriz , Lay Juan Alberto Forte , Capriolo Alberto Daniel
Published: January 2011

Soil water surplus and deficit occur frequently in Buenos Aires province in Argentina. This paper analyses the soil water surplus in a sub-area, the Salado River basin, in the period 1968–2008. This basin is divided in seven drainage areas, delimitated according to the National Water Resources. The series of soil water surplus data were adjusted by means of the theoretical normal cubic-root probability distribution, and the mean areal soil water surplus value of 300 mm was considered as a threshold above which floods can cause severe damage. An increase in the frequency of extreme events and in their tendency exists during the recent years, coherent with the increase of precipitation recorded in the region. The statistical significance of the results was assessed using the Mann Kendall and MAKESENS tests. The results showed a relevant temporal variability, but did not show significant tendencies.
The Psalter Benaki 34.3. An unpublished illuminated manuscript from the family 2400
Authors: Cutler Anthony , Weyl Carr Annemarie
Published: January 2011

REB 34 1976 France p. 281-323+8 pi.

A. Cutler and Annemarie Weyl Carr, The Psalter Benaki 34.3. — The 162 illuminations in this manuscript are shown to be a combination of large-scale miniatures closely related to those of the « Family 2400 » and a much larger group of pictures seemingly invented for the illustration of every psalm. A date of ca. 1180-90 is suggested as is an origin in Cyprus or Jerusalem where Barnabas, the painter and scribe, must have had access to a « motif book » from which he assembled many of his pictures.
Les plus anciennes représentations cappadociennes du costume épiscopal byzantin
Authors: Thierry Nicole
Published: January 2011

REB 34 1976 France p. 325-331+4 pi.

Nicole Thierry, Les plus anciennes représentations cappadociennes du costume episcopal byzantin. — Complétant son étude précédente sur les modifications du costume episcopal (REB 24, 1966, p. 308-315), l'auteur revient sur la description de l'omophorion ou étole episcopate. Les représentations anciennes se caractérisent par la simplicité et l'étroitesse de l'écharpe, sa disposition en courbe souple sur la poitrine et la retombée à gauche du pan terminal. En Cappadoce se rencontrent quatre représentations d'évêques qui se rapprochent des représentations primitives : à Saint- Jean de Çavuşin, dans deux églises de Gūllū dere et à Hagios Basilios. L'illustration comprend deux schémas et sept photographies.
La Vision d'Isaïe de Nicomédie
Authors: Stiernon Daniel
Published: January 2011

REB 35 1977 France p. 5-42

D. Stiernon, La Vision d'Isaïe de Nicomédie. — Une tradition hagiographique assez suspecte (BHG 1731, 1734) fait intervenir un saint Isaïe, reclus de Nicomédie, dans le mariage de Théophile et de Théodora (821 ?) et dans le rétablissement des images (842-843). De la vie de ce thaumaturge n'a été transmis, à partir du XIIe siècle, qu'un seul extrait (BHG 2208), relatif à l'efficacité posthume de la liturgie eucharistique, plus précisément de la célébration continue de quarante messes quotidiennes, réplique byzantine du trentain grégorien. Ce curieux document est introduit, édité, traduit et commenté.
Lettre au sultan Malik-shah rédigée par Michel Psellos
Authors: Gautier Paul
Published: January 2011

REB 35 1977 France p. 73-97

P. Gautier, Lettre au sultan Malik-shah rédigée par Michel Psellos. — Présentation et édition, précédée d'un résumé, d'une lettre dogmatique inédite envoyée par Michel Psellos au sultan au nom de l'empereur byzantin. De l'analyse du contenu il paraît ressortir que le destinataire de la lettre est le sultan seldjoucide Malik-shah (1073-1092) et que la lettre date de 1073 ou de 1074.
The Mosaic Panel of Constantine IX and Zoe in Saint Sophia
Authors: Oikonomidès Nicolas
Published: January 2011

REB 36 1978 France p. 219-232

N. Oikonomides, The Mosaic Panel of Constantine IX and Zoe in Saint Sophia. — This wellknown mosaic panel of the South Gallery of Saint Sophia was first made in order to commemorate a generous donation to the Church by Romanos III Argyros (1028-1034) and his wife Zoe. When Constantine IX Monomachos (1042-1055), Zoe's third husband, made a new and more important donation to Saint Sophia, the patriarch Michael Keroularios had the heads of the imperial couple and of the central figure of Christ as well as the accompanying inscriptions changed, in order to commemorate the new donation. Certain discrepancies in the preserved mosaic lead the author to the hypothesis that the « new » heads of Zoe and of Christ come from an earlier mosaic of similar dimensions, made before 1028, at a time when Zoe was young.
Chronologie et composition dans l'Histoire de Georges Pachymère
Authors: Failler Albert
Published: January 2011

REB 39 1981 France p. 145-249

A. Failler, Chronologie et composition dans l'Histoire de Georges Pachymère. — Dans cet article sont étudiés les procédés de composition qu'utilise l'auteur de l'Histoire et les problèmes de chronologie que soulève son ouvrage. La première partie de l'article, parue dans le tome 38 de la revue (1980, p. 5-103), est consacrée aux livres I-III. La seconde partie couvre la fin du livre III et les trois livres suivants (III, 23 - VI). Les événements rapportés par l'historien dans cette section de son ouvrage se rapportent aux années 1264-1282. La complexité du plan et la fréquence des retours en arrière ou des anticipations empêchent parfois d'aboutir à des solutions définitives et d'établir une chronologie sûre. En de nombreux cas, l'examen des données chronologiques contenues dans l'Histoire et leur confrontation avec les sources parallèles amènent l'auteur à proposer une chronologie nouvelle, fondée avant tout sur la critique interne.
Le typikon de la Théotokos Évergétis
Authors: Gautier Paul
Published: January 2011

REB 40 1982 France p. 5-101

P. Gautier, Le typikon de la Théotokos Évergétis. — Edition avec traduction et notes du typikon, ou règle monastique, du monastère byzantin placé sous le patronage de la Théotokos « Bienfaitrice ». De ce petit couvent, fondé en 1048 par un certain kyr Paul sur un bien patrimonial, à quelque trois kilomètres des remparts terrestres de Constantinople, hérita en 1054 un de ses premiers disciples, kyr Timothée, qui l'agrandit, l'embellit et le dota, vers 1065, d'une règle qui n'a été conservée que par un seul témoin, un magnifique manuscrit du 12e ou 13e siècle conservé à la Bibliothèque Nationale d'Athènes sous la cote 788.
Deux manuscrits pselliens : le Parisinus graecus 1182 et le Laurentianus graecus 57-40
Authors: Gautier Paul
Published: January 2011

REB 44 1986 France p. 45-110

P. Gautier, Deux manuscrits pselliens : le Parisinus graecus 1182 et le Laurentianus graecus 57-40. — La première et principale partie de l'article est consacrée à une étude paléographique et codicologique du Paris, gr. 1182, ainsi qu'à l'inventaire des textes qui y sont copiés et qui appartiennent presque exclusivement à Michel Psellos (traités et lettres). La seconde partie de l'article est consacrée à l'autre manuscrit important des œuvres de Psellos, le Laurent, gr. 57-40, et consiste surtout en un relevé des textes. Les deux manuscrits contiennent respectivement 521 et 309 textes, dont une bonne partie commune. L'article est complété par une Table des incipit et par une double Table de concordance pour les textes communs aux deux manuscrits.
Sur une épigramme byzantine contenue dans le Marcianus graecus 507
Authors: Antoniou Perséphone
Published: January 2011

REB 44 1986 France p. 229-231

Perséphone Antoniou, Sur une épigramme byzantine contenue dans le Marcianus graecus 507. — Édition et présentation d'une épigramme byzantine sur la thériaque, antidote contre les piqûres vénéneuses. Les quatre vers ont été écrits, vers la fin du 12e siècle, au bas de la page 77v du Marc. gr. 507 (coll. 293).
Byzantine ktetorika typika : a comparative study
Authors: Galatariotou Catia
Published: January 2011

REB 45 1987 France p. 77-138

Catia Galatariotou, Byzantine ktetorika typika : a comparative study. — The writer discusses the definition of the term ktetorikon typikon and presents a list of such documents. She observes that they fall into two broad categories ("aristocratic" and "non aristocratic" respectively), each containing clauses and through them revealing attitudes distinct from the other's. In dealing with the aristocratic typika the writer examines areas such as the motivations behind the foundation of monasteries, the attitudes towards the lay ephoros, administration and the individual monk. In the final section of the study the writer discusses aspects of the non aristocratic typika : their attitudes towards spirituality, the family, the lay world, administration, the hermit, the monk's moral state. The study ends by a brief look at typika as autobiographical documents.
Les évêchés suffragants d'Éphèse aux 5e-13e siècles
Authors: Culerrier Pascal
Published: January 2011

REB 45 1987 France p. 139-164

P. Culerrier, Les évêchés suffragants d'Éphèse aux 5e-13e siècles. — Cette étude menée à l'aide des listes conciliaires et synodales, des notices épiscopales et de la documentation littéraire et archéologique montre la vitalité de cet ensemble de près de 40 évêchés. Trois vagues de création de sièges comblant à peu près le vide laissé par les évêchés tombés en déshérence ont pu être distinguées : aux 6e-7e siècles, aux 11e- 12e siècles, après l'établissement de l'empire de Nicée. Ce réseau episcopal, d'une grande stabilité, n'est pas un réseau urbain, car bien des sièges ne sont que des bourgades ou des villages. Cet article se clôt sur le synode de 1230, dernier témoignage de l'importance de l'Église d'Éphèse avant le triomphe de Smyrne et le déclin du christianisme entraîné par la seconde conquête turque.
L'éloge de Nicolas III par Nicolas Mouzalon
Authors: Darrouzès Jean
Published: January 2011

REB 46 1988 France p. 5-53

J. Darrouzès, L'éloge de Nicolas III par Nicolas Mouzalon. — Futur patriarche de Constantinople, Mouzalon a laissé un éloge de Nicolas III, contenu dans le Scorialensis 265 (Y II 10) ; l'édition du texte est accompagnée d'une traduction française avec une introduction et des notes, qui relèvent principalement les traits historiques de ce discours estompés par des développements de rhétorique. C'est un témoignage unique sur la vie de ce patriarche.
Le texte de l'Histoire de Nicéphore Bryennios à la lumière d'un nouveau fragment
Authors: Failler Albert
Published: January 2011

REB 47 1989 France p. 239-250

A. Failler, Le texte de l'Histoire de Nicéphore Bryennios à la lumière d'un nouveau fragment. — Le Marcianus gr. 509 (f. 93v-94) contient la copie d'un court fragment de l'Histoire de Nicéphore Bryennios (éd. P. Gautier, p. 89*-1038). La majeure partie de cet extrait constitue par ailleurs un emprunt presque littéral à Skylitzès, que le Marcianus reproduit plus fidèlement que le seul manuscrit, aujourd'hui perdu, de l'Histoire de Nicéphore Bryennios. De l'examen des variantes on conclut que le Marcianus fournit, pour l'ensemble du passage, un texte meilleur que celui du manuscrit qui est à la base de l'édition.
Kinematics of stair ascent in healthy dogs
Authors: Millis D. L. , Headrick J. F. , Durant A. M.
Published: January 2011

Objective: The purpose of the study was to evaluate the kinematic characteristics of pelvic limb joints in orthopaedically normal dogs during stair ascent.

Design: Prospective study.

Procedure: Eight hound-type dogs were fitted with reflective spheres at palpable landmarks, including the tuber ischium, greater trochanter, cranial dorsal iliac spine, lateral epicondyle of the femur, lateral malleolus, and the base of the fifth metatarsal bone. Each dog was walked up a set of custom made stairs consisting of four steps and then trotted across a level test space. Data were recorded for the right and left pelvic limbs during ascent. Maximum and minimum joint angles and total joint motion were calculated for all joints and evaluated statistically.

Results: Pelvic limb joints had a greater total joint excursion during stair ascent. There was greater extension of the coxofemoral and tibiotarsal joints during ascent, whereas the stifle joint had less extension. Maximum flexion of the stifle and tarsal joints was significantly greater in stair ascent. There was not any significant difference between the right and left limbs.

Conclusions: All joints of the pelvic limb undergo a greater joint motion to ascend stairs.
Treatment of unilateral congenital flexural and torsional limb deformities with circular external skeletal fixation system in two calves
Authors: Ozak A. , Nisbet H. O. , Yardimci C.
Published: January 2011

Case description: Two calves with unilateral congenital flexural and torsional limb deformities below the hock joint of the left hindlimb were presented to Veterinary Teaching Hospital of the Ondokuz Mayis University. According to clinical, goniometric and radiological examinations, flexural (130°-40°) and torsional (90°-180°) deformities were diagnosed. Except for the limb deformities, both animals were otherwise completely healthy.

Treatment and outcome: In case 1, hock joint arthrodesis was performed using a circular external skeletal fixation system with four full rings 160 mm in diameter. In case 2, the deformity was corrected by fixation after transverse osteotomy at the level of the proximal metatarsals with four full rings 150 mm in diameter, and arthrodesis of the fetlock joint with three full rings 100 mm in diameter. According to clinical examinations and follow-up telephone interviews performed 15 and 24 weeks after discharge, functional use with slight lameness in case 1 and full functional use in case 2 had been achieved.

Clinical relevance: None of the previously reported cases of flexural deformity had radiographic signs similar to those of the calves in our report, and the deformities were not as severe as those reported here. To our knowledge, this is the first report of treatment of unilateral congenital flexural and torsional deformities in calves with a circular external skeletal fixation system.
New Drug Treatments for ADHD
Authors: McBurnett Keith , Weiss Nicholas
Published: January 2011

Several new treatments for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder have been developed in recent years. For the most part, new commercial products during this time have been reformulations of existing molecules differentiated by delivery systems, with the intent of extending the duration of effect, reducing the abuse liability, or otherwise adding features of potential clinical benefit.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Keith McBurnett, PhD; and Nicholas Weiss, MD, are with the Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco.
Address correspondence to: Keith McBurnett, PhD, UCSF-LPPI Room 140, 401 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94143; or e-mail: <A HREF="mailto:keithm@lppi.ucsf.edu</"TARGET="_new">keithm@lppi.ucsf.edu.
Dr. McBurnett has disclosed the following relevant financial relationships: Eli Lilly and Shire; Consultant; and Eli Lilly, Otsuka, and Shire: Contracted research. Dr. Weiss has disclosed no relevant financial relationships.

EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES
Describe key aspects of newer stimulant preparations, including their novel delivery systems and their low potential for abuse and diversion.
Identify the risks, benefits and indications for extended-release formulations of alpha-agonists in the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Describe several investigational agents for ADHD, including their rationale and novel mechanisms of action. 
Correction of Astigmatism After Cataract Surgery Using the Light Adjustable Lens: A 1-year Follow-up Pilot Study
Authors: Lichtinger Alejandro , Sandstedt Christopher A. , Schwartz Daniel M. , Chayet Arturo S.
Published: January 2011

PURPOSE:

The management of preoperative and residual astigmatism is critical to obtain optimized uncorrected visual acuity. The aim of this study was to determine whether residual astigmatism could be precisely corrected postoperatively using the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL, Calhoun Vision Inc) and to determine the stability of the adjusted refraction.

METHODS:

Ten eyes of 10 patients with cataract and corneal astigmatism between 1.00 and 2.00 diopters (D) were included. After standard phacoemulsification and implantation of the LAL, adjustment and lock-in procedures were completed. Before adjustment and 2 weeks, 6 months, and 1 year after lock-in, a full ophthalmic examination including uncorrected distance acuity (UDVA) and corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), autorefraction, and manifest refraction was performed.

RESULTS:

All surgeries, adjustments, and lock-in procedures were performed with no complications. All eyes achieved ±0.50 D of the targeted cylindrical adjustment. Mean spherical equivalent refraction was 0.03±0.84 D before adjustment and −0.06±0.25 D at final follow-up. The cylinder axis remained the same in 60% of eyes and all eyes were stable within 10° rotation at 12-month follow-up. Seven of 10 eyes achieved UDVA of 20/25 or better whereas all eyes achieved UDVA of 20/32 or better. Corrected distance visual acuity remained stable in all eyes.

CONCLUSIONS:

In this pilot study, the LAL proved to be an efficient, predictable, and stable method of managing astigmatism in cataract patients.
The Impact of Load Profile on the Grid-Interaction of Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) Systems in Low-Energy Dwellings
Authors: Baetens R , De Coninck R , Helsen L , Saelens D
Published: January 2011

A building integrated photovoltaic system (BIPV) system may produce the same amount of electricity as consumed in the building on a yearly base. The simultaneity of production and consumption however needs to be evaluated: the distribution grid is regarded as virtual storage and is loaded unconventionally or even overloaded. A detailed bottom-up modelling approach of the domestic load, thermal installations and the local generation of BIPV system may give more insight. The present paper aims at quantifying the impact of domestic load profiles on the grid-interaction of BIPV-equipped dwelling in a moderate Belgian climate wherefore the cover factor is defined. For a yearly electricity production that equals the yearly domestic demand, a cover factor of 0.42 is found if a classic heating system is installed, denoting that more than half of the produced electricity will be passed on to the grid and withdrawn on another moment. If a heat pump is used for space heating and domestic hot water, the cover factor decreases to 0.29.
Acceptance of Waste-Minimization Practices by Construction Management Students
Authors: Williams Mary Joan , Nobe MaryEllen C , Dunbar Brian H , Criswell Marvin E
Published: January 2011

The purpose of this study was to assess the acceptance of a model of construction and demolition waste-minimization practices by construction management senior students. This approach assumed students can informally influence construction industry opinions, making their decisions vital to future construction-management education standards. The capstone class of the bachelor's degree program of one of the foremost construction management programs in the country was the sample chosen to study. It was found that a majority of the students were knowledgeable about all of the practices and had favorable opinions based on that knowledge. Most had tried more than half of the practices on a limited basis and decided they would use the practices based on these trials. The largest part of the students did not have experience applying a good number of the practices; however, almost all of those with this experience would continue to use all the practices. Identifying successful trial and application experiences and asking students how they became involved in such experiences would be useful in the implementation of a school plan to increase acceptance.
Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin Interferes with Airway Tolerance by Suppressing the Generation of Antigen-Specific Regulatory T Cells
Authors: Lei Liying , Zhang Yanlu , Yao Weiguo , Kaplan Mark H. , Zhou Baohua
Published: January 2011

Thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) is an essential cytokine for the initiation and development of allergic inflammation. In this study, we have investigated the role of TSLP in the breakdown of immune tolerance and generation of inducible regulatory T cells (iTregs). Our results demonstrated that TSLP diverted airway tolerance against OVA to Th2 sensitization and inhibited the generation of OVA-specific iTregs. TSLP exerted a direct inhibitory effect on both human and mouse iTreg development in vitro. Low doses of TSLP were capable of inhibiting iTreg induction without significantly promoting Th2 development, indicating that these two functions of TSLP are separable. Moreover, the TSLP-mediated inhibition of iTreg generation was only partially dependent on IL-4 and Stat6, and was effective when TSLP was present for the first 24 h of T cell activation. These results define a novel role for TSLP in regulating the balance of airway tolerance and allergic inflammation.
STAT6 Expression in Multiple Cell Types Mediates the Cooperative Development of Allergic Airway Disease
Authors: Chapoval Svetlana P. , Dasgupta Preeta , Smith Elizabeth P. , DeTolla Louis J. , Lipsky Michael M. , Kelly-Welch Ann E. , Keegan Achsah D.
Published: January 2011

Th2 cells induce asthma through the secretion of cytokines. Two such cytokines, IL-4 and IL-13, are critical mediators of many features of this disease. They both share a common receptor subunit, IL-4Rα, and signal through the STAT6 pathway. STAT6−/− mice have impaired Th2 differentiation and reduced airway response to allergen. Transferred Th2 cells were not able to elicit eosinophilia in response to OVA in STAT6−/− mice. To clarify the role of STAT6 in allergic airway inflammation, we generated mouse bone marrow (BM) chimeras. We observed little to no eosinophilia in OVA-treated STAT6−/− mice even when STAT6+/+ BM or Th2 cells were provided. However, when Th2 cells were transferred to STAT6×Rag2−/− mice, we observed an eosinophilic response to OVA. Nevertheless, the expression of STAT6 on either BM-derived cells or lung resident cells enhanced the severity of OVA-induced eosinophilia. Moreover, when both the BM donor and recipient lacked lymphocytes, transferred Th2 cells were sufficient to induce the level of eosinophilia comparable with that of wild-type (WT) mice. The expression of STAT6 in BM-derived cells was more critical for the enhanced eosinophilic response. Furthermore, we found a significantly higher number of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ T cells (regulatory T cells [Tregs]) in PBS- and OVA-treated STAT6−/− mouse lungs compared with that in WT animals suggesting that STAT6 limits both naturally occurring and Ag-induced Tregs. Tregs obtained from either WT or STAT6−/− mice were equally efficient in suppressing CD4+ T cell proliferation in vitro. Taken together, our studies demonstrate multiple STAT6-dependent and -independent features of allergic inflammation, which may impact treatments targeting STAT6.
Mismatch Repair Proteins MSH2, MLH1, and EXO1 Are Important for Class-Switch Recombination Events Occurring in B Cells That Lack Nonhomologous End Joining
Authors: Eccleston Jennifer , Yan Catherine , Yuan Karen , Alt Frederick W. , Selsing Erik
Published: January 2011

In the absence of core nonhomologous end-joining (NHEJ) factors, Ab gene class-switch recombination (CSR) uses an alternative end-joining (A-EJ) pathway to recombine switch (S) region DNA breaks. Previous reports showing decreased S-junction microhomologies in MSH2-deficient mice and an exonuclease 1 (EXO1) role in yeast microhomology-mediated end joining suggest that mismatch repair (MMR) proteins might influence A-EJ–mediated CSR. We have directly investigated whether MMR proteins collectively or differentially influence the A-EJ mechanism of CSR by analyzing CSR in mice deficient in both XRCC4 and individual MMR proteins. We find CSR is reduced and that Igh locus chromosome breaks are reduced in the MMR/XRCC4 double-deficient B cells compared with B cells deficient in XRCC4 alone, suggesting MMR proteins function upstream of double-strand break formation to influence CSR efficiency in these cells. Our results show that MLH1, EXO1, and MSH2 are all important for efficient A-EJ–mediated CSR, and we propose that MMR proteins convert DNA nicks and point mutations into dsDNA breaks for both C-NHEJ and A-EJ pathways of CSR. We also find Mlh1-XRCC4− B cells have an increased frequency of direct S junctions, suggesting that MLH1 proteins may have additional functions that influence A-EJ–mediated CSR.
IL-1F5, -F6, -F8, and -F9: A Novel IL-1 Family Signaling System That Is Active in Psoriasis and Promotes Keratinocyte Antimicrobial Peptide Expression
Authors: Johnston Andrew , Xing Xianying , Guzman Andrew M. , Riblett MaryBeth , Loyd Candace M. , Ward Nicole L. , Wohn Christian , Prens Errol P. , Wang Frank , Maier Lisa E. , Kang Sewon , Voorhees John J. , Elder James T. , Gudjonsson Johann E.
Published: January 2011

IL-1F6, IL-1F8, and IL-1F9 and the IL-1R6(RP2) receptor antagonist IL-1F5 constitute a novel IL-1 signaling system that is poorly characterized in skin. To further characterize these cytokines in healthy and inflamed skin, we studied their expression in healthy control, uninvolved psoriasis, and psoriasis plaque skin using quantitative RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. Expression of IL-1F5, -1F6, -1F8, and -1F9 were increased 2 to 3 orders of magnitude in psoriasis plaque versus uninvolved psoriasis skin, which was supported immunohistologically. Moreover, treatment of psoriasis with etanercept led to significantly decreased IL-1F5, -1F6, -1F8, and -1F9 mRNAs, concomitant with clinical improvement. Similarly increased expression of IL-1F5, -1F6, -1F8, and -1F9 was seen in the involved skin of two mouse models of psoriasis. Suggestive of their importance in inflamed epithelia, IL-1α and TNF-α induced IL-1F5, -1F6, -1F8, and -1F9 transcript expression by normal human keratinocytes. Microarray analysis revealed that these cytokines induce the expression of antimicrobial peptides and matrix metalloproteinases by reconstituted human epidermis. In particular, IL-1F8 increased mRNA expression of human β-defensin (HBD)-2, HBD-3, and CAMP and protein secretion of HBD-2 and HBD-3. Collectively, our data suggest important roles for these novel cytokines in inflammatory skin diseases and identify these peptides as potential targets for antipsoriatic therapies.
Renal Transplantation with Kidneys Affected by Tumours
Authors: Khurram Muhammad Arslan , Sanni Aliu Oladipupo , Rix David , Talbot David
Published: January 2011

Renal transplantation confers improvement in quality of life and survival when compared to patients on dialysis. There is a universal shortage of organs, and efforts have been made to overcome this shortage by exploring new sources. One such area is the use of kidneys containing small tumours after resection of the neoplasm. This paper looks at the current evidence in the literature and reviews the feasibility of utilizing such a source.
The Endotoxin-Induced Neuroinflammation Model of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Tufekci Kemal Ugur , Genc Sermin , Genc Kursad
Published: January 2011

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra. Although the exact cause of the dopaminergic neurodegeneration remains elusive, recent postmortem and experimental studies have revealed an essential role for neuroinflammation that is initiated and driven by activated microglial and infiltrated peripheral immune cells and their neurotoxic products (such as proinflammatory cytokines, reactive oxygen species, and nitric oxide) in the pathogenesis of PD. A bacterial endotoxin-based experimental model of PD has been established, representing a purely inflammation-driven animal model for the induction of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurodegeneration. This model, by itself or together with genetic and toxin-based animal models, provides an important tool to delineate the precise mechanisms of neuroinflammation-mediated dopaminergic neuron loss. Here, we review the characteristics of this model and the contribution of neuroinflammatory processes, induced by thein vivoadministration of bacterial endotoxin, to neurodegeneration. Furthermore, we summarize the recent experimental therapeutic strategies targeting endotoxin-induced neuroinflammation to elicit neuroprotection in the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system. The potential of the endotoxin-based PD model in the development of an early-stage specific diagnostic biomarker is also emphasized.
Prevalence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in Taiwan: A Model for Strain Evolution Linked to Population Migration
Authors: Dou Horng-Yunn , Huang Shu-Chen , Su Ih-Jen
Published: January 2011

The global evolution and spread of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), one of the most successful bacterial pathogens, remain a mystery. Advances in molecular technology in the past decade now make it possible to understand MTB strain evolution and transmission in the context of human population migration. Taiwan is a relatively isolated island, serving as a mixing vessel over the past four centuries as colonization by different waves of ethnic groups occurred. By using mycobacterial tandem repeat sequences as genetic markers, the prevalence of MTB strains in Taiwan revealed an interesting association with historical migrations of different ethnic populations, thus providing a good model to explore the global evolution and spread of MTB.
Characterization of non-methane hydrocarbons in Asian summer monsoon outflow observed by the CARIBIC aircraft
Authors: Baker A. K. , Schuck T. J. , Slemr F. , van Velthoven P. , Zahn A. , Brenninkmeijer C. A. M.
Published: January 2011

Abstract. Between April and December 2008 the CARIBIC commercial aircraft conducted monthly measurement flights between Frankfurt, Germany and Chennai, India. These flights covered the period of the Asian summer monsoon (June–September), during which enhancements in a number of atmospheric species were observed in the upper troposphere over southwestern Asia. In addition to in situ measurements of trace gases and aerosols, whole air samples were collected during the flights, and these were subsequently analyzed for a suite of trace gases that included a number of C2–C8 non-methane hydrocarbons. Non-methane hydrocarbons are relatively short-lived compounds and the large enhancements in their mixing ratios in the upper troposphere over southwestern Asia during the monsoon, sometimes more than double their spring and fall means, provides qualitative evidence for the influence of convectively uplifted boundary layer air. The particularly large enhancements of the combustion tracers benzene and ethyne, along with the similarity of their ratios with carbon monoxide and emission ratios from the burning of household biofuels, indicate a strong influence of biofuel burning to NMHC emissions in this region. Conversely, the ratios of ethane and propane to carbon monoxide, along with the ratio between i-butane and n-butane, indicate a significant source of these compounds from the use of fossil fuels, and comparison to previous campaigns suggests that this source could be increasing. Photochemical aging patterns of NMHCs showed that the CARIBIC samples were collected in two distinctly different regions of the monsoon circulation: a southern region where air masses had been recently influenced by low level contact and a northern region, where air parcels had spent substantial time in transit in the upper troposphere before being probed. Estimates of age using ratios of individual NMHCs have ranges of 3–6 days in the south and 9–12 days in the north.
A very high-resolution (1 km×1 km) global fossil fuel CO2 emission inventory derived using a point source database and satellite observations of nighttime lights
Authors: Oda T. , Maksyutov S.
Published: January 2011

Abstract. Emissions of CO2 from fossil fuel combustion are a critical quantity that must be accurately given in established flux inversion frameworks. Work with emerging satellite-based inversions requires spatiotemporally-detailed inventories that permit analysis of regional natural sources and sinks. Conventional approaches for disaggregating national emissions beyond the country and city levels based on population distribution have certain difficulties in their application. We developed a global 1 km×1 km annual fossil fuel CO2 emission inventory for the years 1980–2007 by combining a worldwide point source database and satellite observations of the global nightlight distribution. In addition to estimating the national emissions using global energy consumption statistics, emissions from point sources were estimated separately and were spatially allocated to exact locations indicated by the point source database. Emissions from other sources were distributed using a special nightlight dataset that had fewer saturated pixels compared with regular nightlight datasets. The resulting spatial distributions differed in several ways from those derived using conventional population-based approaches. Because of the inherent characteristics of the nightlight distribution, source regions corresponding to human settlements and land transportation were well articulated. Our distributions showed good agreement with a high-resolution inventory across the US at spatial resolutions that were adequate for regional flux inversions. The inventory can be extended to the future using updated data, and is expected to be incorporated into models for operational flux inversions that use observational data from the Japanese Greenhouse Gases Observing SATellite (GOSAT).
On the aerosol weekly cycle spatiotemporal variability over Europe
Authors: Georgoulias A. K. , Kourtidis K. A.
Published: January 2011

Abstract. In this work, we focus on the spatial and temporal variability of the aerosol weekly cycle over Europe as these were recorded from TERRA MODIS and AQUA MODIS satellite instruments. Aerosol optical properties retrieved from MODIS TERRA (February 2000–February 2009) and AQUA (July 2002–December 2008) were used to produce an aerosol weekly cycle index. First, the general aerosol optical depth (AOD550 nm) weekly patterns were defined at a 1° × 1° resolution using the satellite-based index and six regions of interest were selected. To remove episodic dust transport events, two different aerosol flags, employing fine mode ratio (FMR550 nm) and AOD550 nm data, were applied diagnostically. A second spatial averaging method was then used for the investigation of the weekly variability and the statistical significance of the weekly cycle over each of the previously selected regions. Three major weekly cycle plumes are observed over Europe. A strong positive (higher values during midweek) weekly cycle plume appears over Central Europe, while a strong negative (higher values during weekend) weekly plume appears over the Iberian Peninsula and the North-eastern Europe. A weak but statistically significant negative plume is apparent over the Eastern Mediterranean. The temporal examination of the weekly cycles shows that in some areas there are seasonal differences in the sign of the weekly cycle. The aerosol weekly variability over different regions in Europe was examined in conjunction with the dominating synoptic wind patterns from the NCEP/NCAR reanalysis, showing that the seasonal weekly cycle plumes over regions situated in the eastern Europe and the Mediterranean Sea could be partly attributed to the westerly transport of continental aerosols.
Mesosphere-to-stratosphere descent of odd nitrogen in February–March 2009 after sudden stratospheric warming
Authors: Salmi S.-M. , Verronen P. T. , Thölix L. , Kyrölä E. , Backman L. , Karpechko A. Yu. , Seppälä A.
Published: January 2011

Abstract. We use the 3-D FinROSE chemistry transport model (CTM) and ACE-FTS (Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment Fourier Transform Spectrometer) observations to study the connection between atmospheric dynamics and NOx descent during early 2009 in the northern polar region. We force the model NOx at 80 km poleward of 60° N with ACE-FTS observations and then compare the model results with observations at lower altitudes. Low geomagnetic indices indicate absence of local NOx production in early 2009, which gives a good opportunity to study the effects of atmospheric transport on polar NOx. No in-situ production of NOx by energetic particle precipitation is therefore included. This is the first model study using ECMWF (The European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts) data up to 80 km and simulating the exceptional winter of 2009 with one of the strongest major sudden stratospheric warmings (SSW). The model results show a strong NOx descent in February–March 2009 from the upper mesosphere to the stratosphere after the major SSW. Both observations and model results suggest an increase of NOx to 150–200 ppb (i.e. by factor of 50) at 65 km due to the descent following the SSW. The model, however, underestimates the amount of NOx around 55 km by 40–60 ppb. The results also show that the chemical loss of NOx was insignificant i.e. NOx was mainly controlled by the dynamics. Both ACE-FTS observations and FinROSE show a decrease of ozone of 20–30% at 30–50 km after mid-February to mid-March. However, these changes are not related to the NOx descent, but are due to activation of the halogen chemistry.
Bacteria in the ECHAM5-HAM global climate model
Authors: Sesartic A. , Lohmann U. , Storelvmo T.
Published: January 2011

Abstract. Bacteria are the most active naturally occuring ice nuclei (IN) due to the ice nucleation active proteins on their surface, which serve as active sites for ice nucleation. Their potential impact on clouds and precipitation is not well known and needs to be investigated. Bacteria as a new aerosol species were introduced into the global climate model (GCM) ECHAM5-HAM. The inclusion of bacteria acting as IN in a GCM leads to only minor changes in cloud formation and precipitation on a global level, however, changes in the liquid water path and ice water path can be observed, specifically in the boreal regions where tundra and forests act as sources of bacteria.
Trends of HCl, ClONO 2 and HF column abundances from ground-based FTIR measurements in Kiruna (Sweden) in comparison with KASIMA model calculations
Authors: Kohlhepp R. , Barthlott S. , Blumenstock T. , Hase F. , Kaiser I. , Raffalski U. , Ruhnke R.
Published: January 2011

Abstract. Trends of hydrogen chloride (HCl), chlorine nitrate (ClONO2) and hydrogen fluoride (HF) column abundances above Kiruna (Northern Sweden, 67.84° N, 20.41° E) derived from nearly 14 years (1996–2009) of measurement and model data are presented. The measurements have been performed with a Bruker 120 HR (later Bruker 125 HR) Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer and the model used was KASIMA (KArlsruhe SImulation model of the Middle Atmosphere). To calculate the long-term trends, a linear function combined with an annual cycle was fitted to the data using a least squares method. The precision of the resulting trends was estimated with the so-called bootstrap resampling method. The relative trends were calculated on the basis of the linear fit result on 1 January 2000, 12:00 UTC. For hydrogen fluoride, both model and measurements show a positive trend that seems to decrease in the last few years. This suggests a stabilisation of the HF total column abundance. For the summer data (August to November), the FTIR trend of (+1.25 ± 0.28)%/yr agrees within errors with the KASIMA one of (+1.55 ± 0.11)%/yr. The trends determined for HCl and ClONO2 are significantly negative over the time period considered here. This corresponds to the expectations because the emission of their precursors (chlorofluorocarbons and hydrochlorofluorocarbons) has been restricted in the Montreal Protocol in 1987 and its amendments and adjustments. The relative trend for ClONO2 from the FTIR measurements amounts to (−3.28 ± 0.56)%/yr and the one for HCl to (−0.81± 0.23)%/yr. KASIMA simulates a weaker decrease: For ClONO2, the result is (−0.90 ± 0.10)%/yr and for HCl (−0.17± 0.06)%/yr. Part of the difference between measurement and model data can be explained by sampling and the stronger annual cycle indicated by the measurements. There is a factor of about four between the trends of HCl and ClONO2 above Kiruna for both measurement and model data. The absolute values of ClONO2 and HF calculated by KASIMA agree quite well with the FTIR measurements while KASIMA tends to underestimate the HCl column abundances.
Deep plant-derived carbon storage in Amazonian podzols
Authors: Montes C. R. , Lucas Y. , Pereira O. J. R. , Achard R. , Grimaldi M. , Melfi A. J.
Published: January 2011

Abstract. Equatorial podzols are soils characterized by thick sandy horizons overlying more clayey horizons. Organic matter produced in the topsoil is transferred in depth through the sandy horizons and accumulate at the transition, at a depth varying from 1 to more than 3 m, forming deep horizons rich in organic matter (Bh horizons). Although they cover great surfaces in the equatorial zone, these soils are still poorly known. Studying podzols from Amazonia, we found out that the deep Bh horizons in poorly drained podzol areas have a thickness higher than 1 m and store unexpected amounts of carbon. The average for the studied area was 66.7 ± 5.8 kgC m−2 for the deep Bh and 86.8 ± 7.1 kgC m−2 for the whole profile. Extrapolating to the podzol areas of the whole Amazonian basin has been possible thanks to digital maps, giving an order of magnitude around 13.6 ± 1.1 PgC, at least 12.3 PgC higher than previous estimates. This assessment should be refined by additional investigations, not only in Amazonia but in all equatorial areas where podzols have been identified. Because of the lack of knowledge on the quality and behaviour of the podzol organic matter, the question of the feedback between the climate and the equatorial podzol carbon cycle is open.