bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distinct colonization patterns and cDNA-AFLP transcriptome profiles in compatible and incompatible interactions between melon and different races of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. melonis
Authors: Sestili Sara , Polverari Annalisa , Luongo Laura , Ferrarini Alberto , Scotton Michele , Hussain Jamshaid , Delledonne Massimo , Ficcadenti Nadia , Belisario Alessandra
Published: February 2011

Background

Fusarium oxysporumf. sp.melonisSnyd. & Hans. (FOM) causes Fusarium wilt, the most important infectious disease of melon (Cucumis meloL.). The four known races of this pathogen can be distinguished only by infection on appropriate cultivars. No molecular tools are available that can discriminate among the races, and the molecular basis of compatibility and disease progression are poorly understood. Resistance to races 1 and 2 is controlled by a single dominant gene, whereas only partial polygenic resistance to race 1,2 has been described. We carried out a large-scale cDNA-AFLP analysis to identify host genes potentially related to resistance and susceptibility as well as fungal genes associated with the infection process. At the same time, a systematic reisolation procedure on infected stems allowed us to monitor fungal colonization in compatible and incompatible host-pathogen combinations.

Results

Melon plants (cv. CharentaisFom-2), which are susceptible to race 1,2 and resistant to race 1, were artificially infected with a race 1 strain of FOM or one of two race 1,2 w strains. Host colonization of stems was assessed at 1, 2, 4, 8, 14, 16, 18 and 21 days post inoculation (dpi), and the fungus was reisolated from infected plants. Markedly different colonization patterns were observed in compatible and incompatible host-pathogen combinations. Five time points from the symptomless early stage (2 dpi) to obvious wilting symptoms (21 dpi) were considered for cDNA-AFLP analysis. After successful sequencing of 627 transcript-derived fragments (TDFs) differentially expressed in infected plants, homology searching retrieved 305 melon transcripts, 195 FOM transcripts expressedin plantaand 127 orphan TDFs. RNA samples from FOM colonies of the three strains grownin vitrowere also included in the analysis to facilitate the detection ofin planta-specific transcripts and to identify TDFs differentially expressed among races/strains.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that resistance against FOM in melon involves only limited transcriptional changes, and that wilting symptoms could derive, at least partially, from an active plant response.

We discuss the pathogen-derived transcripts expressedin plantaduring the infection process and potentially related to virulence functions, as well as transcripts that are differentially expressed between the two FOM races grownin vitro. These transcripts provide candidate sequences that can be further tested for their ability to distinguish between races.

Sequence data from this article have been deposited in GenBank, Accession Numbers: HO867279-HO867981.
Comparative tissue transcriptomics reveal prompt inter-organ communication in response to local bacterial kidney infection
Authors: Boekel Jorrit , Källskog Örjan , Rydén-Aulin Monica , Rhen Mikael , Richter-Dahlfors Agneta
Published: February 2011

Background

Mucosal infections elicit inflammatory responses via regulated signaling pathways. Infection outcome depends strongly on early events occurring immediately when bacteria start interacting with cells in the mucosal membrane. Hitherto reported transcription profiles on host-pathogen interactions are strongly biased towardsin vitrostudies. To detail the localin vivogenetic response to infection, we here profiled host gene expression in a recent experimental model that assures high spatial and temporal control of uropathogenicEscherichia coli(UPEC) infection within the kidney of a live rat.

Results

Transcriptional profiling of tissue biopsies from UPEC-infected kidney tissue revealed 59 differentially expressed genes 8 h post-infection. Their relevance for the infection process was supported by a Gene Ontology (GO) analysis. Early differential expression at 3 h and 5 h post-infection was of low statistical significance, which correlated to the low degree of infection. Comparative transcriptomics analysis of the 8 h data set and online available studies of early local infection and inflammation defined a core of 80 genes constituting a "General tissue response to early local bacterial infections". Among these, 25% were annotated as interferon-γ (IFN-γ) regulated. Subsequent experimental analyses confirmed a systemic increase of IFN-γ in rats with an ongoing local kidney infection, correlating to splenic, rather than renalIfnginduction and suggested this inter-organ communication to be mediated by interleukin (IL)-23. The use of comparative transcriptomics allowed expansion of the statistical data handling, whereby relevant data could also be extracted from the 5 h data set. Out of the 31 differentially expressed core genes, some represented specific 5 h responses, illustrating the value of comparative transcriptomics when studying the dynamic nature of gene regulation in response to infections.

Conclusion

Our hypothesis-free approach identified components of infection-associated multi-cellular tissue responses and demonstrated how a comparative analysis allows retrieval of relevant information from lower-quality data sets. The data further define marked representation of IFN-γ responsive genes and a prompt inter-organ communication as a hallmark of an early local tissue response to infection.
Role of a Fur homolog in iron metabolism in Nitrosomonas europaea
Authors: Vajrala Neeraja , Sayavedra-Soto Luis A , Bottomley Peter J , Arp Daniel J
Published: February 2011

Background

In response to environmental iron concentrations, many bacteria coordinately regulate transcription of genes involved in iron acquisition via the ferric uptake regulation (Fur) system. The genome of Nitrosomonas europaea, an ammonia-oxidizing bacterium, carries three genes (NE0616, NE0730 and NE1722) encoding proteins belonging to Fur family.

Results

Of the three N. europaea fur homologs, only the Fur homolog encoded by gene NE0616 complemented the Escherichia coli H1780 fur mutant. A N. europaea fur:kanP mutant strain was created by insertion of kanamycin-resistance cassette in the promoter region of NE0616 fur homolog. The total cellular iron contents of the fur:kanP mutant strain increased by 1.5-fold compared to wild type when grown in Fe-replete media. Relative to the wild type, the fur:kanP mutant exhibited increased sensitivity to iron at or above 500 μM concentrations. Unlike the wild type, the fur:kanP mutant was capable of utilizing iron-bound ferrioxamine without any lag phase and showed over expression of several outer membrane TonB-dependent receptor proteins irrespective of Fe availability.

Conclusions

Our studies have clearly indicated a role in Fe regulation by the Fur protein encoded by N. europaea NE0616 gene. Additional studies are required to fully delineate role of this fur homolog.
In-hospital outcome of patients with culture-confirmed tuberculous pleurisy: clinical impact of pulmonary involvement
Authors: Shu Chin-Chung , Wang Jann-Tay , Wang Jann-Yuan , Lee Li-Na , Yu Chong-Jen
Published: February 2011

Background

Outcomes for hospitalized patients with tuberculous pleurisy (TP) have rarely been reported, and whether or not pulmonary involvement affects outcomes is uncertain. This study aimed to analyze the in-hospital mortality rate of culture-confirmed TP with an emphasis on the clinical impact of pulmonary involvement.

Methods

Patients who were hospitalized for pleural effusion (PE) of unconfirmed diagnosis and finally diagnosed as TP were identified. We classified them according to the disease extent: isolated pleurisy (isolated pleurisy group) and pleurisy with pulmonary involvement (pleuro-pulmonary group).

Results

Among the 205 patients hospitalized before the diagnosis was established, 51 (24.9%) belonged to the isolated pleurisy group. Compared to the pleuro-pulmonary group, patients in the isolated pleurisy group were younger, had fewer underlying co-morbidities, and presented more frequently with fever and chest pain. Fewer patients in the isolated pleurisy group had hypoalbuminemia (< 3.5 g/dL) and anemia. The two groups were similar with regards to PE analysis, resistance pattern, and timing of anti-tuberculous treatment. Patients who had a typical pathology of TP on pleural biopsy received anti-tuberculous treatment earlier than those who did not, and were all alive at discharge. The isolated pleurisy group had a lower in-hospital mortality rate, a shorter length of hospital stay and better short-term survival. In addition, the presence of underlying comorbidities and not receiving anti-tuberculous treatment were associated with a higher in-hospital mortality rate.

Conclusion

In culture-confirmed tuberculous pleurisy, those with pulmonary involvement were associated with a higher in-hospital mortality rate. A typical pathology for TP on pleura biopsy was associated with a better outcome.
Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T polymorphism in patients with lung cancer in a Korean population
Authors: Cui Lian-Hua , Shin Min-Ho , Kim Hee Nam , Song Hye-Rim , Piao Jin-Mei , Kweon Sun-Seog , Choi Jin-Su , Yun Woo-Jun , Kim Young-Chul , Oh In-Jae , Kim Kyu-Sik
Published: February 2011

Background

This study was designed to investigate an association between methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T polymorphism and the risk of lung cancer in a Korean population.

Methods

We conducted a large-scale, case-control study involving 3938 patients with newly diagnosed lung cancer and 1700 healthy controls. Genotyping was performed with peripheral blood DNA for MTHFR C677T polymorphisms. Statistical significance was estimated by logistic regression analysis.

Results

The MTHFR C677T frequencies of CC, CT, and TT genotypes were 34.5%, 48.5%, and 17% among lung cancer patients, and 31.8%, 50.7%, and 17.5% in the controls, respectively. The MTHFR 677CT and TT genotype showed a weak protection against lung cancer compared with the homozygous CC genotype, although the results did not reach statistical significance. The age- and gender-adjusted odds ratio (OR) of overall lung cancer was 0.90 (95% confidence interval (CI), 0.77-1.04) for MTHFR 677 CT and 0.88 (95% CI, 0.71-1.07) for MTHFR 677TT. However, after stratification analysis by histological type, the MTHFR 677CT genotype showed a significantly decreased risk for squamous cell carcinoma (age- and gender-adjusted OR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.64-0.96). The combination of 677 TT homozygous with 677 CT heterozygous also appeared to have a protection effect on the risk of squamous cell carcinoma. We observed no significant interaction between the MTHFR C677T polymorphism and age and gender or smoking habit.

Conclusions

This is the first reported study focusing on the association between MTHFR C677T polymorphisms and the risk of lung cancer in a Korean population. The T allele was found to provide a weak protective association with lung squamous cell carcinoma.
A p53-independent role for the MDM2 antagonist Nutlin-3 in DNA damage response initiation
Authors: Valentine Jane M , Kumar Sonia , Moumen Abdeladim
Published: February 2011

Background

The mammalian DNA-damage response (DDR) has evolved to protect genome stability and maximize cell survival following DNA-damage. One of the key regulators of the DDR is p53, itself tightly regulated by MDM2. Following double-strand DNA breaks (DSBs), mediators including ATM are recruited to the site of DNA-damage. Subsequent phosphorylation of p53 by ATM and ATM-induced CHK2 results in p53 stabilization, ultimately intensifying transcription of p53-responsive genes involved in DNA repair, cell-cycle checkpoint control and apoptosis.

Methods

In the current study, we investigated the stabilization and activation of p53 and associated DDR proteins in response to treatment of human colorectal cancer cells (HCT116p53+/+) with the MDM2 antagonist, Nutlin-3.

Results

Using immunoblotting, Nutlin-3 was observed to stabilize p53, and activate p53 target proteins. Unexpectedly, Nutlin-3 also mediated phosphorylation of p53 at key DNA-damage-specific serine residues (Ser15, 20 and 37). Furthermore, Nutlin-3 induced activation of CHK2 and ATM - proteins required for DNA-damage-dependent phosphorylation and activation of p53, and the phosphorylation of BRCA1 and H2AX - proteins known to be activated specifically in response to DNA damage. Indeed, using immunofluorescent labeling, Nutlin-3 was seen to induce formation of γH2AX foci, an early hallmark of the DDR. Moreover, Nutlin-3 induced phosphorylation of key DDR proteins, initiated cell cycle arrest and led to formation of γH2AX foci in cells lacking p53, whilst γH2AX foci were also noted in MDM2-deficient cells.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first solid evidence showing a secondary role for Nutlin-3 as a DDR triggering agent, independent of p53 status, and unrelated to its role as an MDM2 antagonist.
Spontaneous hyaline cartilage regeneration can be induced in an osteochondral defect created in the femoral condyle using a novel double-network hydrogel
Authors: Yokota Masashi , Yasuda Kazunori , Kitamura Nobuto , Arakaki Kazunobu , Onodera Shin , Kurokawa Takayuki , Gong Jian-Ping
Published: February 2011

Background

Functional repair of articular osteochondral defects remains a major challenge not only in the field of knee surgery but also in tissue regeneration medicine. The purpose is to clarify whether the spontaneous hyaline cartilage regeneration can be induced in a large osteochondral defect created in the femoral condyle by means of implanting a novel double-network (DN) gel at the bottom of the defect.

Methods

Twenty-five mature rabbits were used in this study. In the bilateral knees of each animal, we created an osteochondral defect having a diameter of 2.4-mm in the medial condyle. Then, in 21 rabbits, we implanted a DN gel plug into a right knee defect so that a vacant space of 1.5-mm depth (in Group I), 2.5-mm depth (in Group II), or 3.5-mm depth (in Group III) was left. In the left knee, we did not apply any treatment to the defect to obtain the control data. All the rabbits were sacrificed at 4 weeks, and the gross and histological evaluations were performed. The remaining 4 rabbits underwent the same treatment as used in Group II, and real-time PCR analysis was performed at 4 weeks.

Results

The defect in Group II was filled with a sufficient volume of the hyaline cartilage tissue rich in proteoglycan and type-2 collagen. The Wayne's gross appearance and histology scores showed that Group II was significantly greater than Group I, III, and Control (p < 0.012). The relative expression level of type-2 collagen, aggrecan, and SOX9 mRNAs was significantly greater in Group II than in the control group (p < 0.023).

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that spontaneous hyaline cartilage regeneration can be induced in vivo in an osteochondral defect created in the femoral condyle by means of implanting the DN gel plug at the bottom of the defect so that an approximately 2-mm deep vacant space was intentionally left in the defect. This fact has prompted us to propose an innovative strategy without cell culture to repair osteochondral lesions in the femoral condyle.
Effects of Green Tea Catechins and Theanine on Preventing Influenza Infection among Healthcare Workers: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Matsumoto Keiji , Yamada Hiroshi , Takuma Norikata , Niino Hitoshi , Sagesaka Yuko M
Published: February 2011

Background

Experimental studies have revealed that green tea catechins and theanine prevent influenza infection, while the clinical evidence has been inconclusive. This study was conducted to determine whether taking green tea catechins and theanine can clinically prevent influenza infection.

Methods

Design, Setting, and Participants: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 200 healthcare workers conducted for 5 months from November 9, 2009 to April 8, 2010 in three healthcare facilities for the elderly in Higashimurayama, Japan.

Interventions: The catechin/theanine group received capsules including green tea catechins (378 mg/day) and theanine (210 mg/day). The control group received placebo.

Main Outcome Measures: The primary outcome was the incidence of clinically defined influenza infection. Secondary outcomes were (1) laboratory-confirmed influenza with viral antigen measured by immunochromatographic assay and (2) the time for which the patient was free from clinically defined influenza infection, i.e., the period between the start of intervention and the first diagnosis of influenza infection, based on clinically defined influenza infection.

Results

Eligible healthcare workers (n = 197) were enrolled and randomly assigned to an intervention; 98 were allocated to receive catechin/theanine capsules and 99 to placebo. The incidence of clinically defined influenza infection was significantly lower in the catechin/theanine group (4 participants; 4.1%) compared with the placebo group (13 participants; 13.1%) (adjusted OR, 0.25; 95% CI, 0.07 to 0.76, P = 0.022). The incidence of laboratory-confirmed influenza infection was also lower in the catechin/theanine group (1 participant; 1.0%) than in the placebo group (5 participants; 5.1%), but this difference was not significant (adjusted OR, 0.17; 95% CI, 0.01 to 1.10; P = 0.112). The time for which the patient was free from clinically defined influenza infection was significantly different between the two groups (adjusted HR, 0.27; 95% CI, 0.09 to 0.84; P = 0.023).

Conclusions

Among healthcare workers for the elderly, taking green tea catechins and theanine may be effective prophylaxis for influenza infection.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials (NCT): NCT01008020
Pro-inflammatory cytokine/chemokine production by reovirus treated melanoma cells is PKR/NF-κB mediated and supports innate and adaptive anti-tumour immune priming
Authors: Steele Lynette , Errington Fiona , Prestwich Robin , Ilett Elizabeth , Harrington Kevin , Pandha Hardev , Coffey Matt , Selby Peter , Vile Richard , Melcher Alan
Published: February 2011

Background

As well as inducing direct oncolysis, reovirus treatment of melanoma is associated with activation of innate and adaptive anti-tumour immune responses.

Results

Here we characterise the effects of conditioned media from reovirus-infected, dying human melanoma cells (reoTCM), in the absence of live virus, to address the immune bystander potential of reovirus therapy. In addition to RANTES, IL-8, MIP-1α and MIP-1β, reovirus-infected melanoma cells secreted eotaxin, IP-10 and the type 1 interferon IFN-β. To address the mechanisms responsible for the inflammatory composition of reoTCM, we show that IL-8 and IFN-β secretion by reovirus-infected melanoma cells was associated with activation of NF-κB and decreased by pre-treatment with small molecule inhibitors of NF-κB and PKR; specific siRNA-mediated knockdown further confirmed a role for PKR. This pro-inflammatory milieu induced a chemotactic response in isolated natural killer (NK) cells, dendritic cells (DC) and anti-melanoma cytotoxic T cells (CTL). Following culture in reoTCM, NK cells upregulated CD69 expression and acquired greater lytic potential against tumour targets. Furthermore, melanoma cell-loaded DC cultured in reoTCM were more effective at priming adaptive anti-tumour immunity.

Conclusions

These data demonstrate that the PKR- and NF-κB-dependent induction of pro-inflammatory molecules that accompanies reovirus-mediated killing can recruit and activate innate and adaptive effector cells, thus potentially altering the tumour microenvironment to support bystander immune-mediated therapy as well as direct viral oncolysis.
Nanoscaled carborane ruthenium(II)-arene complex inducing lung cancer cells apoptosis
Authors: Zhang Gen , Wu Chunhui , Ye Hongde , Yan Hong , Wang Xuemei
Published: February 2011

Background

The new ruthenium(II)-arene complex, which bearing a carborane unit, ruthenium and ferrocenyl functional groups, has a novel versatile synthetic chemistry and unique properties of the respective material at the nanoscale level. The ruthenium(II)-arene complex shows significant cytotoxicity to cancer cells and tumor-inhibiting properties. However, ruthenium(II)-arene complex of mechanism of anticancer activity are scarcely explored. Therefore, it is necessary to explore ruthenium(II)-arene complex mechanism of anticancer activity for application in this area.

Results

In this study, the ruthenium(II)-arene complex could significantly induce apoptosis in human lung cancer HCC827 cell line. At the concentration range of 5 μM-100 μM, ruthenium(II)-arene complex had obvious cell cytotoxicity effect on HCC827 cells with IC50 values ranging 19.6 ± 5.3 μM. Additionally, our observations demonstrate that the ruthenium(II)-arene complex can readily induce apoptosis in HCC827 cells, as evidenced by Annexin-V-FITC, nuclear fragmentation as well as DNA fragmentation. Treatment of HCC827 cells with the ruthenium(II)-arene complex resulted in dose-dependent cell apoptosis as indicated by high cleaved Caspase-8,9 ratio. Besides ruthenium(II)-arene complex caused a rapid induction of cleaved Caspase-3 activity and stimulated proteolytic cleavage of poly-(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusion

In this study, the ruthenium(II)-arene complex could significantly induce apoptosis in human lung cancer HCC827 cell line. Treatment of HCC827 cells with the ruthenium(II)-arene complex resulted in dose-dependent cell apoptosis as indicated by high cleaved Caspase-8,9 ratio. Besides ruthenium(II)-arene complex caused a rapid induction of cleaved Caspase-3 activity and stimulated proteolytic cleavage of poly-(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) in vitro and in vivo. Our results suggest that ruthenium(II)-arene complex could be a candidate for further evaluation as a chemotherapeutic agent for human cancers, especially lung cancer.
Mono- and bi-functional arenethiols as surfactants for gold nanoparticles: synthesis and characterization
Authors: Vitale Floriana , Fratoddi Ilaria , Battocchio Chiara , Piscopiello Emanuela , Tapfer Leander , Russo Maria Vittoria , Polzonetti Giovanni , Giannini Cinzia
Published: February 2011

Stable gold nanoparticles stabilized by different mono and bi-functional arenethiols, namely, benzylthiol and 1,4-benzenedimethanethiol, have been prepared by using a modified Brust's two-phase synthesis. The size, shape, and crystalline structure of the gold nanoparticles have been determined by high-resolution electron microscopy and full-pattern X-ray powder diffraction analyses. Nanocrystals diameters have been tuned in the range 2 ÷ 9 nm by a proper variation of Au/S molar ratio. The chemical composition of gold nanoparticles and their interaction with thiols have been investigated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. In particular, the formation of networks has been observed with interconnected gold nanoparticles containing 1,4-benzenedimethanethiol as ligand.
Advanced materials nanocharacterization
Authors: Giannazzo Filippo , Eyben Pierre , Baranowski Jacek , Camassel Jean , Lányi Stefan
Published: February 2011

This special issue of Nanoscale Research Letters contains scientific contributions presented at the Symposium D "Multidimensional Electrical and Chemical Characterization at the Nanometer-scale of Organic and Inorganic Semiconductors" of the E-MRS Fall Meeting 2010, which was held in Warsaw, Poland from 13th to 17th September, 2010.
Fabrication of ordered nanoporous anodic alumina prepatterned by mold-assisted chemical etching
Authors: Lai Kuan-Liang , Hon Min-Hsiung , Leu Ing-Chi
Published: February 2011

In this article, a simple and cost-effective method to create patterned nanoindentations on Al surface via mold-assisted chemical etching process is demonstrated. This report shows the reaction-diffusion method which formed nanoscale shallow etch pits by the absorption/liberation behaviors of chemical etchant in poly(dimethylsiloxane) stamp. During subsequent anodization, it was possible to obtain the ordered nanopore arrays with 277 nm pitch that were guided by the prepatterned etch pits. The prepatterned etch pits obtained can guide the growth of AAO nanopores during anodization and facilitate the preparation of ordered nanopore arrays.
Spinal Toll like Receptor 3 is Involved in Chronic Pancreatitis-Induced Mechanical Allodynia of Rat
Authors: Qian Nian-Song , Liao Yong-Hui , Feng Quan-Xing , Tang Yu , Dou Ke-Feng , Tao Kai-Shan
Published: February 2011

Background:

Mechanisms underlying pain in chronic pancreatitis (CP) are incompletely understood. Our previous data showed that astrocytes were actively involved. However, it was unclear how astrocytic activation was induced in CP conditions. In the present study, we hypothesized that toll-like receptors (TLRs) were involved in astrocytic activation and pain behavior in CP-induced pain.

Results:

To test our hypothesis, we first investigated the changes of TLR2-4 in the rat CP model induced by intrapancreatic infusion of trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS). Western blot showed that after TNBS infusion, TLR3, but not TLR2 or TLR4, was increased gradually and maintained at a very high level for up to 5 w, which correlated with the changing course of mechanical allodynia. Double immunostaining suggested that TLR3 was highly expressed on astrocytes. Infusion with TLR3 antisense oligodeoxynucleotide (ASO) dose-dependently attenuated CP-induced allodynia. CP-induced astrocytic activation in the spinal cord was also significantly suppressed by TLR3 ASO. Furthermore, real-time PCR showed that IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6 and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) were significantly increased in spinal cord of pancreatic rats. In addition, TLR3 ASO significantly attenuated CP-induced up-regulation of IL-1β and MCP-1.

Conclusions:

These results suggest a probable “TLR3-astrocytes-IL-1β/MCP-1“ pathway as a positive feedback loop in the spinal dorsal horn in CP conditions. TLR3-mediated neuroimmune interactions could be new targets for treating persistent pain in CP patients.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Reduced immunomodulation potential of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells induced CCR4+CCR6+Th/Treg cell subset imbalance in ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Wu Yanfeng , Ren Mingliang , Yang Rui , Liang Xinjun , Ma Yuanchen , Tang Yong , Huang Lin , Ye Jichao , Chen Keng , Wang Peng , Shen Huiyong
Published: February 2011

Introduction

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic autoimmune disease, and the precise pathogenesis is largely unknown at present. Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) with immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory potential and Th17/Treg cells with a reciprocal relationship regulated by BMSCs have been reported to be involved in some autoimmune disorders. Here we studied the biological and immunological characteristics of BMSCs, the frequency and phenotype of CCR4+CCR6+ Th/Treg cells and their interaction in vitro in AS.

Methods

The biological and immunomodulation characteristics of BMSCs were examined by induced multiple-differentiation and two-way mixed peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) reactions or after stimulation with phytohemagglutinin, respectively. The interactions of BMSCs and PBMCs were detected with a direct-contact co-culturing system. CCR4+CCR6+ Th/Treg cells and surface markers of BMSCs were assayed using flow cytometry.

Results

The AS-BMSCs at active stage showed normal proliferation, cell viability, surface markers and multiple differentiation characteristics, but significantly reduced immunomodulation potential (decreased 68 ± 14%); the frequencies of Treg and Fox-P3+ cells in AS-PBMCs decreased, while CCR4+CCR6+ Th cells increased, compared with healthy donors. Moreover, the AS-BMSCs induced imbalance in the ratio of CCR4+CCR6+ Th/Treg cells by reducing Treg/PBMCs and increasing CCR4+CCR6+ Th/PBMCs, and also reduced Fox-P3+ cells when co-cultured with PBMCs. Correlation analysis showed that the immunomodulation potential of BMSCs has significant negative correlations with the ratio of CCR4+CCR6+ Th to Treg cells in peripheral blood.

Conclusions

The immunomodulation potential of BMSCs is reduced and the ratio of CCR4+CCR6+ Th/Treg cells is imbalanced in AS. The BMSCs with reduced immunomodulation potential may play a novel role in AS pathogenesis by inducing CCR4+CCR6+ Th/Treg cell imbalance.
A Comparison of Analytical and Data Preprocessing Methods for Spectral Fingerprinting
Authors: Luthria Devanand L. , Mukhopadhyay Sudarsan , Lin Long-Ze , Harnly James M.
Published: February 2011

Spectral fingerprinting, as a method of discriminating between plant cultivars and growing treatments for a common set of broccoli samples, was compared for six analytical instruments. Spectra were acquired for finely powdered solid samples using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and Fourier transform near-infrared (NIR) spectrometry. Spectra were also acquired for unfractionated aqueous methanol extracts of the powders using molecular absorption in the ultraviolet (UV) and visible (VIS) regions and mass spectrometry with negative (MS-) and positive (MS+) ionization. The spectra were analyzed using nested one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and principal component analysis (PCA) to statistically evaluate the quality of discrimination. All six methods showed statistically significant differences between the cultivars and treatments. The significance of the statistical tests was improved by the judicious selection of spectral regions (IR and NIR), masses (MS+ and MS-), and derivatives (IR, NIR, UV, and VIS).
Depth-Profiling by Confocal Raman Microscopy (CRM): Data Correction by Numerical Techniques
Authors: Tomba J. Pablo , Eliçab Guillermo E. , de la Paz Miguel María , Perez Claudio J.
Published: February 2011

The data obtained in confocal Raman microscopy (CRM) depth profiling experiments with dry optics are subjected to significant distortions, including an artificial compression of the depth scale, due to the combined influence of diffraction, refraction, and instrumental effects that operate on the measurement. This work explores the use of (1) regularized deconvolution and (2) the application of simple rescaling of the depth scale as methodologies to obtain an improved, more precise, confocal response. The deconvolution scheme is based on a simple predictive model for depth resolution and the use of regularization techniques to minimize the dramatic oscillations in the recovered response typical of problem inversion. That scheme is first evaluated using computer simulations on situations that reproduce smooth and sharp sample transitions between two materials and finally it is applied to correct genuine experimental data, obtained in this case from a sharp transition (planar interface) between two polymeric materials. It is shown that the methodology recovers very well most of the lost profile features in all the analyzed situations. The use of simple rescaling appears to be only useful for correcting smooth transitions, particularly those extended over distances larger than those spanned by the operative depth resolution, which limits the strategy to the study of profiles near the sample surface. However, through computer simulations, it is shown that the use of water immersion objectives may help to reduce optical distortions and to expand the application window of this simple methodology, which could be useful, for instance, to safely monitor Fickean sorption/desorption of penetrants in polymer films/coatings in a nearly noninvasive way.
Dependence of Surface-Enhanced Infrared Absorption (SEIRA) Enhancement and Spectral Quality on the Choice of Underlying Substrate: A Closer Look at Silver (Ag) Films Prepared by Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD)
Authors: Killian Michelle M. , Villa-Aleman Eliel , Sun Zhelin , Crittenden Scott , Leverette Chad L.
Published: February 2011

Silver (Ag) films of varying thickness were simultaneously deposited using physical vapor deposition (PVD) onto six infrared (IR) substrates (BaF2, CaF2, Ge, AMTIR, KRS-5, and ZnSe) in order to correlate the morphology of the deposited film with optimal SEIRA response and spectral band symmetry and quality. Significant differences were observed in the surface morphology of the deposited silver films, the degree of enhancement provided, and the spectral appearance of para-nitrobenzoic acid (PNBA) cast films for each silver-coated substrate. These differences were attributed to each substrate's chemical properties, which dictate the morphology of the Ag film and ultimately determine the spectral appearance of the adsorbed analyte and the magnitude of SEIRA enhancement. Routine SEIRA enhancement factors (EFs) for all substrates were between 5 and 150. For single-step Ag depositions, the following ranking identifies the greatest SEIRA enhancement factor and the maximum absorption of the 1345 cm−1 spectral marker of PNBA at the optimal silver thickness for each substrate: BaF2 (EF = 85 ± 19, 0.059 A, 10 nm Ag) > CaF2 (EF = 75 ± 30, 0.052 A, 10 nm Ag) > Ge (EF = 45 ± 8, 0.019 A, 5 nm Ag) > AMTIR (EF = 38 ± 8, 0.024 A, 15 nm Ag) > KRS-5 (EF = 24 ± 1, 0.015 A, 12 nm Ag) > ZnSe (EF = 9 ± 5, 0.008 A, 8 nm Ag). A two-step deposition provides 59% larger EFs than single-step depositions of Ag on CaF2. A maximum EF of 147 was calculated for a cast film of PNBA (surface coverage = 341 ng/cm2) on a 10 nm two-step Ag film on CaF2 (0.102 A, 1345 cm−1 symmetric NO2 stretching band). The morphology of the two-step Ag film has smaller particles and greater particle density than the single-step Ag film.
Multisensor-Koordinatenmesstechnik zur Erfassung dimensioneller Messgrößen
Authors: Wiedenhöfer Thomas
Published: February 2011

Die Anforderungen an die Koordinatenmesstechnik haben in den letzten beiden Jahrzehnten rasant zugenommen. Die Messobjekte sind bei steigender Anzahl an Prüfmerkmalen zunehmend komplexer, die Taktzyklen kürzer, und die zu prüfenden Toleranzen enger geworden. Die Messaufgaben können häufig nicht mehr mit nur einem Messgerät bzw. Sensorprinzip allein bewältigt werden. Mit Multisensor-Koordinatenmessgeräten wird eine höhere Flexibilität erreicht. Messungen mit mehreren Sensoren können in einem Messablauf durchgeführt werden. Zeit und Kosten werden gespart, und die Messunsicherheit wird reduziert. Multisensor-Koordinatenmessgeräte haben deshalb heute eine weite Verbreitung im industriellen Messwesen erreicht.
Vitamin D absorption: consequences of gastric bypass surgery
Authors: Aarts Edo , van Groningen Lenneke , Horst Ronald , Telting Darryl , van Sorge Adriaan , Janssen Ignace , de Boer Hans
Published: February 2011

Background

Severe vitamin D deficiency is a common finding in morbid obesity, and the incidence increases markedly after RYGB. Normalization of vitamin D levels after RYGB is difficult to achieve because the degree of surgery-induced malabsorption is not known.

Objective

To develop a test that quantifies the changes in intestinal cholecalciferol absorption induced by Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery.

Methods

Absorption characteristics of cholecalciferol were studied in 14 morbidly obese, premenopausal women before and 4 weeks after laparoscopic RYGB. Serum cholecalciferol levels were measured at baseline and 1, 2, 3, and 14 days after a single oral dose of 50 000 IU solubilized cholecalciferol.

Results

Peak serum cholecalciferol levels were observed on day 1 in all patients. They were 26.6±3.7% lower after RYGB (P=0.02). Inter-individual variability was high.

Conclusion

Peak cholecalciferol levels are reduced by about 25% after RYGB. Further analysis suggested that the timing of sampling in the current study was not optimal. This might have caused an underestimation of the true decrease in cholecalciferol absorption induced by RYGB.
Transcriptional sexual dimorphism during preimplantation embryo development and its consequences for developmental competence and adult health and disease
Authors: Bermejo-Alvarez P , Rizos D , Lonergan P , Gutierrez-Adan A
Published: February 2011

In adult tissues, sexual dimorphism is largely attributed to sex hormone effects, although there is increasing evidence for a major role of sex chromosome dosage. During preimplantation development, male and female embryos can display phenotypic differences that can only be attributed to the transcriptional differences resulting from their different sex chromosome complements. Thus, all expressed Y-linked genes and those X-linked genes that totally or partially escape X-chromosome inactivation at each specific developmental stage display transcriptional sexual dimorphism. Furthermore, these differentially expressed sex chromosome transcripts can regulate the transcription of autosomal genes, leading to a large transcriptional sexual dimorphism. The sex-dependent transcriptional differences may affect several molecular pathways such as glucose metabolism, DNA methylation and epigenetic regulation, and protein metabolism. These molecular differences may have developmental consequences, including sex-selective embryo loss and sex-specific epigenetic responses to environmental hazards, leading to long-term effects. This review discusses transcriptional sexual dimorphism in preimplantation embryos, its consequences on sex ratio biases and on the developmental origin of health and disease, and its significance for transcriptional studies and adult sexual dimorphism.
Consequences of conceptus exposure to colony-stimulating factor 2 on survival, elongation, interferon-τ secretion, and gene expression
Authors: Loureiro Barbara , Block Jeremy , Favoreto Mauricio G , Carambula Silvia , Pennington Kathleen A , Ealy Alan D , Hansen Peter J
Published: February 2011

Exposure of bovine conceptuses to colony-stimulating factor 2 (CSF2) from days 5 to 7 of development can increase the percentage of transferred conceptuses that develop to term. The purpose of this experiment was to understand the mechanism by which CSF2 increases embryonic and fetal survival. Conceptuses were produced in vitro in the presence or absence of 10 ng/ml CSF2 from days 5 to 7 after insemination, transferred into cows, and flushed from the uterus at day 15 of pregnancy. There was a tendency (P=0.07) for the proportion of cows with a recovered conceptus to be greater for those receiving a CSF2-treated conceptus (35% for control versus 66% for CSF2). Antiviral activity in uterine flushings, a measure of the amount of interferon-τ (IFNT2) secreted by the conceptus, tended to be greater for cows receiving CSF2-treated conceptuses than for cows receiving control conceptuses. This difference approached significance when only cows with detectable antiviral activity were considered (P=0.07). In addition, CSF2 increased mRNA for IFNT2 (P=0.08) and keratin 18 (P<0.05) in extraembryonic membranes. Among a subset of filamentous conceptuses that were analyzed by microarray hybridization, there was no effect of CSF2 on gene expression in the embryonic disc or extraembryonic membranes. Results suggest that the increase in calving rate caused by CSF2 treatment involves, in part, more extensive development of extraembryonic membranes and capacity of the conceptus to secrete IFNT2 at day 15 of pregnancy.
Rhabdoviruses in Two Species of Drosophila: Vertical Transmission and a Recent Sweep
Authors: Longdon Ben , Wilfert Lena , Obbard Darren J , Jiggins Francis M
Published: February 2011

Insects are host to a diverse range of vertically transmitted micro-organisms, but while their bacterial symbionts are well-studied, little is known about their vertically transmitted viruses. We have found that two sigma viruses (Rhabdoviridae) recently discovered in Drosophila affinis and Drosophila obscura are both vertically transmitted. As is the case for the sigma virus of Drosophila melanogaster, we find that both males and females can transmit these viruses to their offspring. Males transmit lower viral titers through sperm than females transmit through eggs, and a lower proportion of their offspring become infected. In natural populations of D. obscura in the United Kingdom, we found that 39% of flies were infected and that the viral population shows clear evidence of a recent expansion, with extremely low genetic diversity and a large excess of rare polymorphisms. Using sequence data we estimate that the virus has swept across the United Kingdom within the past ∼11 years, during which time the viral population size doubled approximately every 9 months. Using simulations based on our lab estimates of transmission rates, we show that the biparental mode of transmission allows the virus to invade and rapidly spread through populations at rates consistent with those measured in the field. Therefore, as predicted by our simulations, the virus has undergone an extremely rapid and recent increase in population size. In light of this and earlier studies of a related virus in D. melanogaster, we conclude that vertically transmitted rhabdoviruses may be common in insects and that these host–parasite interactions can be highly dynamic.
Children With Medical Complexity: An Emerging Population for Clinical and Research Initiatives
Authors: Cohen Eyal , Kuo Dennis Z. , Agrawal Rishi , Berry Jay G. , Bhagat Santi K. M. , Simon Tamara D. , Srivastava Rajendu
Published: February 2011

Children with medical complexity (CMC) have medical fragility and intensive care needs that are not easily met by existing health care models. CMC may have a congenital or acquired multisystem disease, a severe neurologic condition with marked functional impairment, and/or technology dependence for activities of daily living. Although these children are at risk of poor health and family outcomes, there are few well-characterized clinical initiatives and research efforts devoted to improving their care. In this article, we present a definitional framework of CMC that consists of substantial family-identified service needs, characteristic chronic and severe conditions, functional limitations, and high health care use. We explore the diversity of existing care models and apply the principles of the chronic care model to address the clinical needs of CMC. Finally, we suggest a research agenda that uses a uniform definition to accurately describe the population and to evaluate outcomes from the perspectives of the child, the family, and the broader health care system.
Timing of Excess Weight Gain in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC)
Authors: Hughes Adrienne R. , Sherriff Andrea , Lawlor Debbie A. , Ness Andrew R. , Reilly John J.
Published: February 2011

OBJECTIVES:

To test the hypothesis that most excess weight gain occurs by school entry in a large sample of English children, and to determine when the greatest gain in excess weight occurred between birth and 15 years.

METHODS:

Longitudinal data were collected annually from birth to 15 years in 625 children. Weight and BMI at each time point were expressed relative to UK 1990 growth reference as z scores. Excess weight gain was calculated as the group increase in weight and BMI z scores between specific time periods.

RESULTS:

Weight z score did not increase from birth to 5 years (mean difference: 0.04 [95% confidence interval (CI): −0.03–0.12] P = .30) but increased from 5 to 9 years (mean difference: 0.19 [95% CI: 0.14–0.23] P < .001). BMI z score increased from 7 to 9 years (mean difference: 0.22 [95% CI: 0.18–0.26] P < .001), with no evidence of a large increase before 7 years and after 9 years.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our results do not support the hypothesis that most excess weight gain occurs in early childhood in contemporary English children. Excess weight gain was substantial in mid-childhood, with more gradual increases in early childhood and adolescence, which indicates that interventions to prevent excess weight should focus on school-aged children and adolescents as well as the preschool years.
Longitudinal Validation of the Test for Respiratory and Asthma Control in Kids in Pediatric Practices
Authors: Chipps Bradley , Zeiger Robert S. , Murphy Kevin , Mellon Michael , Schatz Michael , Kosinski Mark , Lampl Kathy , Ramachandran Sulabha
Published: February 2011

OBJECTIVE:

The 5-item, caregiver-completed Test for Respiratory and Asthma Control in Kids (TRACK) was developed and validated primarily in asthma-specialist practices to monitor respiratory control in preschool-aged children. This longitudinal study in children treated by pediatricians evaluated the responsiveness of TRACK to changes in respiratory- and asthma-control status over time and further assessed TRACK's reliability and validity.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Caregivers of children younger than 5 years with symptoms consistent with asthma within the past year (N = 438) completed TRACK at 2 clinic visits separated by 4 to 6 weeks. Physicians were blinded to caregiver assessment, completed a guidelines-based respiratory-control survey at both visits, and were asked whether the visit resulted in a change in therapy. Responsiveness of TRACK to change in respiratory-control status over time was evaluated; reliability and discriminant validity were assessed.

RESULTS:

Mean changes in TRACK scores from the initial to follow-up visits differed in the expected direction in subsets of children whose clinical status improved, remained unchanged, or worsened based on physicians' and caregivers' assessments (P < .001). Mean TRACK scores also differed significantly (P < .001) across patient subsets, with lower scores (indicating poorer control) in children classified as very poorly controlled, in those who required a step-up in therapy, and in those who had 4 or more episodes or attacks of wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath per week in the past 3 months.

CONCLUSIONS:

The present study extends the validity and reliability of TRACK by demonstrating its responsiveness to change in respiratory-control status over time in preschool-aged children with symptoms consistent with asthma.
Randomized Controlled Trial of Cephalexin Versus Clindamycin for Uncomplicated Pediatric Skin Infections
Authors: Chen Aaron E. , Carroll Karen C. , Diener-West Marie , Ross Tracy , Ordun Joyce , Goldstein Mitchell A. , Kulkarni Gaurav , Cantey J. B. , Siberry George K.
Published: February 2011

OBJECTIVE:

To compare clindamycin and cephalexin for treatment of uncomplicated skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) caused predominantly by community-associated (CA) methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). We hypothesized that clindamycin would be superior to cephalexin (an antibiotic without MRSA activity) for treatment of these infections.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Patients aged 6 months to 18 years with uncomplicated SSTIs not requiring hospitalization were enrolled September 2006 through May 2009. Eligible patients were randomly assigned to 7 days of cephalexin or clindamycin; primary and secondary outcomes were clinical improvement at 48 to 72 hours and resolution at 7 days. Cultures were obtained and tested for antimicrobial susceptibilities, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis type, and Panton-Valentine leukocidin status.

RESULTS:

Of 200 enrolled patients, 69% had MRSA cultured from wounds. Most MRSA were USA300 or subtypes, positive for Panton-Valentine leukocidin, and clindamycin susceptible, consistent with CA-MRSA. Spontaneous drainage occurred or a drainage procedure was performed in 97% of subjects. By 48 to 72 hours, 94% of subjects in the cephalexin arm and 97% in the clindamycin arm were improved (P = .50). By 7 days, all subjects were improved, with complete resolution in 97% in the cephalexin arm and 94% in the clindamycin arm (P = .33). Fevers and age less than 1 year, but not initial erythema > 5 cm, were associated with early treatment failures, regardless of antibiotic used.

CONCLUSIONS:

There is no significant difference between cephalexin and clindamycin for treatment of uncomplicated pediatric SSTIs caused predominantly by CA-MRSA. Close follow-up and fastidious wound care of appropriately drained, uncomplicated SSTIs are likely more important than initial antibiotic choice.