bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations of histone deacetylase‐2 and histone deacetylase‐3 genes with schizophrenia in a Chinese population
Authors: Han Hongzhi , Yu Yaqin , Shi Jieping , Yao Yan , Li Wenjun , Kong Ning , Wu Yanhua , Wang Chong , Wang Shibin , Meng Xiangfei , Kou Changgui
Published: July 2012

Introduction

To explore the association between histone deacetylase‐2 (HDAC2) and histone deacetylase‐3 (HDAC3) gene polymorphisms and schizophrenia.

Methods

A total of 208 family trios consisting of fathers, mothers and affected offspring with schizophrenia were recruited as our subjects. Four tag SNPs on HDAC2 (rs10499080, rs6568819, rs2499618 and rs13204445) and two tag SNPs on HDAC3 (rs11741808, rs2530223) genes were selected. The Mass ARRAY Assay Design software (Sequenom) was used to design amplification and allele specific extension primers. The Hardy‐Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) for genotypic distributions was tested using the chi‐square goodness‐of‐fit test. Allelic association for a single tag SNP was analyzed by using family‐based association tests including the haplotype‐based haplotype relative risk (HHRR) test and the transmission disequilibrium test (TDT).

Results

The genotypic distributions of HDAC2 SNPs rs6568819, rs2499618 and rs13204445 and HDAC3 SNPs rs11741808 and rs2530223 were all in Hardy‐Weinberg equilibrium (P > 0.05). HHRR analysis revealed no associations between the SNPs and schizophrenia (P > 0.05). In addition, the TDT did not show any significant associations between HDAC2 and HDAC3 SNPs and schizophrenia (P > 0.05).

Discussion

HDAC2 and HDAC3 might not be associated with schizophrenia in the Chinese population.
Lipid profile is associated with the incidence of cognitive dysfunction in viral cirrhotic patients: A data‐mining analysis
Authors: Taniguchi Eitaro , Kawaguchi Takumi , Sakata Masahiro , Itou Minoru , Oriishi Tetsuharu , Sata Michio
Published: July 2012

Aim:  Cognitive dysfunction (CD) is frequently observed in cirrhotic patients. However, the biochemical profiles associated with CD remain unclear. We investigated the biochemical profiles associated with the incidence of CD in cirrhotic patients by using multivariate analyses, including a decision‐tree algorithm.

Methods:  In this study, 27 viral cirrhotic patients were enrolled. All subjects underwent neuropsychiatric tests; two or more abnormal results were defined as CD. A logistic regression model was used for multivariate stepwise analysis. A decision‐tree algorithm was constructed, and the categorical differences based on the decision‐tree model were analyzed by χ2‐tests.

Results:  Multivariate stepwise analysis showed the levels of total bilirubin, triglycerides and free fatty acids (FFA) as independent bioparameters associated with the incidence of CD in cirrhotic patients. The decision‐tree algorithm showed that among patients with FFA of 514 mEq/L or more, 77.8% had CD. Meanwhile, among patients with FFA of less than 514 mEq/L and triglycerides of 106 mg/dL or more, 20.0% had CD. The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy for the incidence of CD using the lipid profile (FFA >514 mEq/L or triglycerides <106 mg/dL) were 85.7% (12/14), 61.5% (8/13) and 74.1% (20/27), respectively.

Conclusion:  The levels of total bilirubin, FFA and triglycerides are independently associated with the incidence of CD in cirrhotic patients. In addition, a decision‐tree algorithm revealed that FFA of more than 514 mEq/L or triglycerides of less than 106 mg/dL is a profile associated with the incidence of CD. Thus, this lipid profile could be a possible screening bioparameter for CD in cirrhotic patients.
Immigrants at Risk, Immigrants as Risk: Two Paragdims of Globalization
Authors: Marrujo Olivia Ruiz
Published: July 2012

Drawing largely on research on Mexican and Central American immigration to the United States, this article explores the relationship of risk to international undocumented migration, an association found with increasing regularity in public policy discussions, academic forums and the mass media. On the one hand, immigrants are seen as a population at risk, vulnerable to abuse by authorities and private citizens and to the possibility of death and injury by accidents. On the other hand, immigrants are presented as a risk to the economy, social integrity and cultural identity of society. It is argued that the complex and contradictory terms of the association, subsumed in these two positions, reflect contemporary debates about national and personal identity as well as inquiries into human nature intrinsic to this period of globalization.
“It’s Time to Pause and Reflect”: Museums and Human Rights
Authors: Orange Jennifer A. , Carter Jennifer J.
Published: July 2012

Abstract   As museum professionals become more aware of their institutional ability to promote the realization of human rights, so too are the missions, exhibitions, and programming initiatives of many museums around the globe responding to an evolving human rights culture. Here, we will briefly discuss the museum institution’s past relationship with the concept of rights, and identify some of its challenges in taking up a more activist role.
Sites of Memory: Argentina
Authors: Kamien Janet A.
Published: July 2012

Abstract   In the last 10 years or so, commemorative, archival, and educational spaces have been established all over Argentina, both to honor the victims of acts of state‐sponsored terrorism perpetrated in the “Dirty War” of the 1970s and 1980s, and to explore the complex history of this era. The author spent four months living and working in Buenos Aires as a Fulbright Scholar in 2011 and was able to visit a few of these important new spaces and speak to staff. This article attempts to review some of the successes and problems each site experiences in doing this difficult work. While national memorials differ in every time period and in every country, some similarities may be drawn, and each may have something important to teach us.
Vietnam: Activities Targeting Marginalized Women’s Groups for Gender Equality and Development
Authors: Bich Van Nguyen Thi
Published: July 2012

Abstract   The Vietnamese Women’s Museum (VWM) opened in 1995 with the mission to improve public knowledge of the historical and cultural heritage of Vietnamese women in the nation’s 54 ethnic community groups. The VWM aimed to be a center for cultural exchange with women from other nations with the goal of fostering “equality, development, and peace.” At the outset it honored the positive role played by women in general, and presented some typical individuals acclaimed for their contributions and sacrifices. After some visitor research, the museum is now using a gender‐specific approach, playing the role of social critic, reflecting contemporary life, and targeting marginalized women groups.
Museums of Malawi Case Study: Tackling HIV/AIDS by Creating Awareness of Rights and Cultural Practices
Authors: Gondwe Mike
Published: July 2012

The HIV/AIDS epidemic has greatly impacted the lives of many Malawians. In 2007, one million people in a population of 13 million were infected with the HIV virus. There are 91,000 cases of children living with HIV and over 550,000 orphans who lost their parents to this disease (UNAIDS 2008 Report on Global AIDS Epidemic). At the Museums of Malawi, many staff have died of HIV/AIDS‐related illnesses. The gravity of this matter prompted the Museums of Malawi to join hands with other stakeholders in a concerted effort to address the HIV/AIDS pandemic. The Museums of Malawi has found that the most significant reasons for HIV transmission are specific cultural beliefs and practices that abuse people’s rights, and that are as dangerous as the disease itself. The museum created activities that look at these beliefs in order to achieve behavioral change among youth and adults during the program.
The Peace Labyrinth: An Interactive Exhibition on Conflict Resolution
Authors: Friedberg Daniel , Alderoqui‐Pinus Diana
Published: July 2012

Abstract   Interactive exhibitions are a new medium for peace education in Israel. The Peace Labyrinth, based on a model developed by Peace Education Projects (PEP) for an exhibition in the Netherlands, is the first project of this type in Israel. The model was revised to suit the needs and the political and social situation in Israel, particularly in Jerusalem. The project is an initiative of the Jerusalem Foundation, in cooperation with the Olivestone Trust and the Bloomfield Science Museum Jerusalem. The article presents the theoretical, methodological, and practical considerations at play in adapting the original model for use in Israel and notes the insights gained for peace education and for the museum’s educational endeavors.
Bulk Resistance Evaluation of Anisotropic Conductive Adhesive Particles Considering the Current Bending Effect
Authors: Chen X. C. , Tao Bo , Yin Z. P.
Published: July 2012

Because it is difficult to accurately estimate the electric resistance of anisotropic conductive adhesive (ACA) joints, the ACA’s applications in high density packaging field have been greatly limited. The bulk resistance of particles is an essential part of the resistance of ACA joints. For the ACA using solid nickel (Ni) particles, because current flows along the spherical profile of the particles, the bulk resistance of these particles will be underestimated if the current bending effect is neglected. Here we propose a new method, which considers this current bending effect, to accurately evaluate the bulk resistance of Ni particles. First, a mathematical model to calculate the resistance of an arbitrary shaped resistor is deduced on the basis of electromagnetic theory. Second, a numerical model is introduced to calculate the potential distribution in the particles. Finally, the bulk resistance calculated by the new model is compared with the conventional methods. It is shown that the value obtained from this model is much higher than those calculated by other methods. Furthermore, the correlation studies between the bulk resistance and the particle’s diameter, the deformation degree, and the bonding force are carried out. And the results show that these three parameters influence significantly on the bulk resistance. In conclusion, to obtain accurate bulk resistance of ACA particles and make them stable and reliable, it is important to take the current bending effect into consideration and control the particle diameter and the bonding force properly.
Combustion Performance in a Semiclosed Cycle Gas Turbine for IGCC Fired With CO-Rich Syngas and Oxy-Recirculated Exhaust Streams
Authors: Hasegawa Takeharu
Published: July 2012

Our study found that burning a CO-rich gasified coal fuel, derived from an oxygen–CO2 blown gasifier, with oxygen under stoichiometric conditions in a closed cycle gas turbine produced a highly-efficient, oxy-fuel integrated coal gasification combined cycle (IGCC) power generation system with CO2 capture. We diluted stoichiometric combustion with recycled gas turbine exhaust and adjusted for given temperatures. Some of the exhaust was used to feed coal into the gasifier. In doing so, we found it necessary to minimize not only CO and H2 of unburned fuel constituents but also residual O2, not consumed in the gas turbine combustion process. In this study, we examined the emission characteristics of gasified-fueled stoichiometric combustion with oxygen through numerical analysis based on reaction kinetics. Furthermore, we investigated the reaction characteristics of reactant gases of CO, H2, and O2 remaining in the recirculating gas turbine exhaust using present numerical procedures. As a result, we were able to clarify that since fuel oxidation reaction is inhibited due to reasons of exhaust recirculation and lower oxygen partial pressure, CO oxidization is very sluggish and combustion reaction does not reach equilibrium at the combustor exit. In the case of a combustor exhaust temperature of 1573 K (1300 °C), we estimated that high CO exhaust emissions of about a few percent, in tens of milliseconds, corresponded to the combustion gas residence time in the gas turbine combustor. Combustion efficiency was estimated to reach only about 76%, which was a lower value compared to H2/O2-fired combustion while residual O2 in exhaust was 2.5 vol%, or five times as much as the equilibrium concentration. On the other hand, unburned constituents in an expansion turbine exhaust were slowed to oxidize in a heat recovery steam generator (HRSG) flue processing, and exhaust gases reached equilibrium conditions. In this regard, however, reaction heat in HRSG could not devote enough energy for combined cycle thermal efficiency, making advanced combustion technology necessary for achieving highly efficient, oxy-fuel IGCC.
Rotor Model Validation for an Active Magnetic Bearing Machining Spindle Using Mu-Synthesis Approach
Authors: Madden Ryan J. , Sawicki Jerzy T.
Published: July 2012

Model-based identification and μ-synthesis are employed for model updating of the rotor for a high-speed machining spindle supported on active magnetic bearings. The experimentally validated model is compared with a nominal engineering model to identify the unmodeled dynamics. The extracted missing dynamics from the nominal rotor model provides engineering insight into an effective model correction strategy. The corrected rotor model is validated by successful implementation of a number of μ-synthesized controllers, providing robust and stable levitation of the spindle over its entire operating speed range.
The Effects of Wet Compression and Blade Tip Water Injection on the Stability of a Transonic Compressor Rotor
Authors: Luo Mingcong , Zheng Qun , Sun Lanxin , Deng Qingfeng , Chen Jiyou , Wang Jie , Bhargava Rakesh K.
Published: July 2012

The rotor blade tip leakage flow and associated formation of the tip leakage vortex and interaction of the tip leakage vortex with the shockwave, particularly in the case of a transonic compressor rotor have significant impact on the compressor performance and its stability. Air injection upstream of the compressor rotor tip has been shown to improve compressor performance and enhance its stability. The air required for rotor blade tip injection is generally taken from the later stages of the compressor thus causing penalty on the gas turbine performance. In this study, effects of water injection at the rotor tip with and without the wet compression on the compressor performance and its stability have been examined. To achieve the stated objectives, the well tested transonic compressor rotor stage, NASA rotor stage 37, has been numerically simulated. The evaluation of results on various performance parameters, such as total pressure ratio, inlet flow capacity, and adiabatic efficiency combined with contours of total pressure losses, entropy, Mach number, and temperature including limiting streamlines, shows that the blade tip water injection could help in reducing low energy region downstream of the shockwave and strength of the tip leakage vortex with the compressor operating at its rotating stall boundary condition. The extent of reduction depends on the droplet size, injection flow rate, and its velocity. Furthermore, results show that combined case of the blade tip water injection and the wet compression could provide better stall margin enhancement than the blade tip water injection case.
Experimental Validation of Finite Element Models of Intact and Implanted Composite Hemipelvises Using Digital Image Correlation
Authors: Ghosh Rajesh , Gupta Sanjay , Dickinson Alexander , Browne Martin
Published: July 2012

A detailed understanding of the changes in load transfer due to implantation is necessary to identify potential failure mechanisms of orthopedic implants. Computational finite element (FE) models provide full field data on intact and implanted bone structures, but their validity must be assessed for clinical relevance. The aim of this study was to test the validity of FE predicted strain distributions for the intact and implanted pelvis using the digital image correlation (DIC) strain measurement technique. FE models of an in vitro hemipelvis test setup were produced, both intact and implanted with an acetabular cup. Strain predictions were compared to DIC and strain rosette measurements. Regression analysis indicated a strong linear relationship between the measured and predicted strains, with a high correlation coefficient (R = 0.956 intact, 0.938 implanted) and a low standard error of the estimate (SE = 69.53 με, 75.09 με). Moreover, close agreement between the strain rosette and DIC measurements improved confidence in the validity of the DIC technique. The FE model therefore was supported as a valid predictor of the measured strain distribution in the intact and implanted composite pelvis models, confirming its suitability for further computational investigations.
Porohyperviscoelastic Model Simultaneously Predicts Parenchymal Fluid Pressure and Reaction Force in Perfused Liver
Authors: Moran Emma C. , Raghunathan Smitha , Evans Douglas W. , Vavalle Nicholas A. , Sparks Jessica L. , LeRoith Tanya , Smith Thomas L.
Published: July 2012

Porohyperviscoelastic (PHVE) modeling gives a simplified continuum approximation of pore fluid behavior within the parenchyma of liver tissue. This modeling approach is particularly applicable to tissue engineering of artificial livers, where the inherent complexity of the engineered scaffolds prevents the use of computational fluid dynamics. The objectives of this study were to simultaneously predict the experimental parenchymal fluid pressure (PFP) and compression response in a PHVE liver model. The model PFP matched the experimental measurements (318 Pa) to within 1.5%. Linear regression of both phases of compression, ramp, and hold, demonstrated a strong correlation between the model and the experimental reaction force (p<0.5). The ability of this PVE model to accurately predict both fluid and solid behavior is important due to the highly vascularized nature of liver tissue and the mechanosensitivity of liver cells to solid matrix and fluid flow properties.
Physical phantom studies of helical cone‐beam CT with exact reconstruction
Authors: Tan Jun , Li H. Harold , Klein Eric , Li Hua , Parikh Parag , Yang Deshan
Published: July 2012

Purpose:

Onboard cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) connected to radiotherapy linear accelerators suffers CT number consistency and uniformity problems in addition to limited longitudinal coverage. Such problems have prevented CBCT from being fully utilized in many quantitative applications including tumor response evaluation and daily radiation dose computation. This paper presents a feasibility study on the helical CBCT scan with exact reconstruction that could be a potential solution.

Methods:

A Varian TrueBeam treatment machine was programmed in the research mode to accomplish helical scans that required synchronized gantry circular rotation and couch table linear motion. Two physical phantoms were scanned in both 360° and 720° helical trajectories. A Katsevich exact reconstruction algorithm was implemented and tested with digital phantom simulations. It was further optimized to account for mechanical instabilities of both gantry rotation and couch table motion from the physical phantom measurements. Preprocessing was employed to correct photon scattering, beam hardening, and bowtie filtration. The reconstructed images were compared to those reconstructed from the FDK approximate reconstruction algorithm using the same phantom projections. Comparisons have also been made with the clinical circular CBCT images and the diagnostic helical CT images of the same physical phantoms.

Results:

Satisfactory reconstruction results were obtained for the Katsevich algorithm in digital phantom study. Physical phantom results demonstrated that a 360° helical scan could provide up to 19 cm longitudinal coverage, which could be increased to 54 cm with a 720° helical scan. Image spatial resolution and soft tissue contrast were sufficient. The Q‐value, which combined the spatial frequency response (modulation transfer function) and the image noise, was calculated, and suggested that the Katsevich algorithm was superior to the FDK algorithm.

Conclusions:

A helical CBCT scan is useful to extend the longitudinal coverage. The Katsevich exact reconstruction algorithm could provide additional advantages in image qualities over the traditional FDK approximate algorithm. The combination of helical CBCT scan with exact reconstruction was proved feasible and would render CBCT more useful in image‐guided radiation therapy.
Hypoxia Triggers Meiotic Fate Acquisition in Maize
Authors: Kelliher Timothy , Walbot Virginia
Published: July 2012

Redox Status Incites Gametogenesis

Germ cells differ from somatic cells in their chromosomal complement, being haploid rather than diploid. In animals, the germ cells are generally produced by a separate lineage set aside early in development. Plants, however, lack a reserved germ cell lineage.
Kelliher and Walbot
(p.
345
; see the Perspective by

Whipple

) now show that, in maize, the key signal for germ cell production is hypoxia, which triggers differentiation of anther germ cells from a generalized field of progenitors. The specializing germ cells then induce differentiation of supportive somatic cells.
Diversity of Interaction Types and Ecological Community Stability
Authors: Mougi A. , Kondoh M.
Published: July 2012

Diversity of Interactions

The diversity in interactions that occur between different species—such as predation, competition, and mutualism—is a fundamental feature of natural ecological systems. Using a theoretical model,
Mougi and Kondoh
(p.
349
; see the Perspective by

Boyd

) show that the diversity of ecological relationship helps a biological community to be stable and thus may be key to the maintenance of biodiversity itself.
Comment on “Illusions Promote Mating Success in Great Bowerbirds”
Authors: Borgia Gerald , Coyle Brian J. , Keagy Jason
Published: July 2012

Kelley and Endler (Reports, 20 January 2012, p. 335) claim that male great bowerbirds construct a visual illusion, using display object gradients, that affects mating success. We argue that they provide inadequate statistical support for their hypothesis, inappropriately exclude important data, and do not consider other display traits that explain mating success. We propose a more plausible alternative hypothesis to explain display object patterns.
Life from a Rooted Perspective
What a Plant Knows: A Field Guide to the Senses.
Daniel Chamovitz. Scientific American/Farrar, Straus and Giroux, New York, 2012. 187 pp. $23. ISBN 9780374288730.
Authors: Eller Chelsie
Published: July 2012

Chamovitz provides an anti-sensationalist perspective on plants' abilities to sense and respond to their surroundings.
MANIACal Roots
Turing's Cathedral: The Origins of the Digital Universe.
George Dyson. Pantheon, New York, 2012. 443 pp. $29.95, C$34. ISBN 9780375422775. Allen Lane, London. £25. ISBN 9780713997507.
Authors: McCusker James P.
Published: July 2012

Dyson's discussion of the foundations of computer science and computer modeling highlights work at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton.
Modeling Human Disease
Authors: Gitler Aaron D. , Lehmann Ruth
Published: July 2012

The astonishing recent advances in the technology for determining DNA sequences have made personalized genomics a foreseeable reality for the doctor's office. This technology has started a whole new gold rush for human disease gene discovery and produced an onslaught of information that represents a new challenge in personalized medicine: connecting genotype to phenotype. Experimental organisms such as yeast, worms, fruit flies, zebrafish, and mice have long been critical for discovering the molecular mechanisms fundamental to life, thereby providing a shortcut to understanding human biology. The new developments allow these model organisms to also provide key insights into the association of specific genes with human disease.
Hedgehog Helper
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: July 2012

A chemokine receptor is required for Hedgehog-stimulated proliferation in endodermal cells.
Promoting Fibroblast Migration with mTORC2
Authors: Gough Nancy R.
Published: July 2012

Activation of the G protein Gα
12
leads to degradation of an inhibitor of mTORC2, which promotes cell migration.
Rapid Evolution of HIV-1 to Functional CD8
+
T Cell Responses in Humanized BLT Mice
Authors: Dudek Timothy E. , No Daniel C. , Seung Edward , Vrbanac Vladimir D. , Fadda Lena , Bhoumik Priyasma , Boutwell Christian L. , Power Karen A. , Gladden Adrianne D. , Battis Laura , Mellors Elizabeth F. , Tivey Trevor R. , Gao Xiaojiang , Altfeld Marcus , Luster Andrew D. , Tager Andrew M. , Allen Todd M.
Published: July 2012

Humanized BLT mice accurately develop human HIV-specific CD8
+
T cell responses capable of rapidly selecting for CTL escape mutations.
Migration of the Swine Influenza Virus δ-Cluster Hemagglutinin N-Linked Glycosylation Site from N142 to N144 Results in Loss of Antibody Cross-Reactivity
Authors: Hause Ben M. , Stine Douglas L. , Sheng Zizhang , Wang Zhao , Chakravarty Suvobrata , Simonson Randy R. , Li Feng
Published: July 2012

Routine antigenic characterization of swine influenza virus isolates in a high-throughput serum neutralization (HTSN) assay found that approximately 20% of isolates were not neutralized by a panel of reference antisera. Genetic analysis revealed that nearly all of the neutralization-resistant isolates possessed a seasonal human-lineage hemagglutinin (HA; δ cluster). Subsequent sequencing analysis of full-length HA identified a conserved N144 residue present only in neutralization-resistant strains. N144 lies in a predicted N-linked glycosylation consensus sequence, i.e., N-X-S/T (where X is any amino acid except for proline). Interestingly, neutralization-sensitive viruses all had predicted N-linked glycosylation sites at N137 or N142, with threonine (T) occupying position 144 of HA. Consistent with the HTSN assay, hemagglutination inhibition (HI) and serum neutralization (SN) assays demonstrated that migration of the potential N-linked glycosylation site from N137 or N142 to N144 resulted in a >8-fold decrease in titers. These results were further confirmed in a reverse genetics system where syngeneic viruses varying only by predicted N-glycosylation sites at either N142 or N144 exhibited distinct antigenic characteristics like those observed in field isolates. Molecular modeling of the hemagglutinin protein containing N142 or N144 in complex with a neutralizing antibody suggested that N144-induced potential glycosylation may sterically hinder access of antibodies to the hemagglutinin head domain, allowing viruses to escape neutralization. Since N-linked glycosylation at these sites has been implicated in genetic and antigenic evolution of human influenza A viruses, we conclude that the relocation of the hemagglutinin N-linked glycosylation site from N142 to N144 renders swine influenza virus δ-cluster viruses resistant to antibody-mediated neutralization.
Draft Genome Sequence of Herbaspirillum lusitanum P6-12, an Endophyte Isolated from Root Nodules of Phaseolus vulgaris
Authors: Weiss Vinícius Almir , Faoro Helisson , Tadra-Sfeir Michelle Zibbetti , Raittz Roberto Tadeu , de Souza Emanuel Maltempi , Monteiro Rose Adele , Cardoso Rodrigo Luis Alves , Wassem Roseli , Chubatsu Leda Satie , Huergo Luciano Fernandes , Müller-Santos Marcelo , Steffens Maria Berenice Reynaud , Rigo Liu Un , Pedrosa Fábio de Oliveira , Cruz Leonardo Magalhães
Published: July 2012

Herbaspirillum lusitanum
strain P6-12 (DSM 17154) is, so far, the only species of
Herbaspirillum
isolated from plant root nodules. Here we report a draft genome sequence of this organism.
Genome Sequence of Mycobacterium massiliense M18, Isolated from a Lymph Node Biopsy Specimen
Authors: Ngeow Yun Fong , Wong Yan Ling , Tan Joon Liang , Arumugam Ramitha , Wong Guat Jah , Ong Chia Sui , Ng Kee Peng , Choo Siew Woh
Published: July 2012

Mycobacterium massiliense
is a rapidly growing mycobacterial species. The pathogenicity of this subspecies is not well known. We report here the annotated genome sequence of
M. massiliense
strain M18, which was isolated from a lymph node biopsy specimen from a Malaysian patient suspected of having tuberculous cervical lymphadenitis.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Sulfur-Oxidizing Bacterium “Candidatus Sulfurovum sediminum” AR, Which Belongs to the Epsilonproteobacteria
Authors: Park Soo-Je , Ghai Rohit , Martín-Cuadrado Ana-Belén , Rodríguez-Valera Francisco , Jung Man-Young , Kim Jong-Geol , Rhee Sung-Keun
Published: July 2012

Sulfur-oxidizing bacteria are common microorganisms in a variety of sulfide-rich environments. They play important roles in the global sulfur cycle on earth. Here, we present a high-quality draft genome sequence of a sulfur-oxidizing bacterium, “
Candidatus
Sulfurovum sediminum” strain AR, which belongs to the class
Epsilonproteobacteria
and dominated an enrichment culture from a marine sediment collected off Svalbard, within the Arctic Circle. Its genome contains genes for sulfur oxidation and carbon fixation. The size of the draft genome is 2.12 Mb, and the G+C content is 39.4%.
Draft Genome Sequence of Arctic Marine Bacterium Pseudoalteromonas issachenkonii PAMC 22718
Authors: Park Ha Ju , Shin Seung Chul , Kim Dockyu
Published: July 2012

The psychrotolerant
Pseudoalteromonas issachenkonii
PAMC 22718 was isolated for its higher chitinase and protease activities from cold seawater in the Kara Sea, Arctic. Here, we present the draft genome sequence of PAMC 22718 to provide further information for the ecological function of the genus
Pseudoalteromonas
in a cold marine environment.
Genome Sequences of Two Thermophilic Bacillus licheniformis Strains, Efficient Producers of Platform Chemical 2,3-Butanediol
Authors: Li Lixiang , Su Fei , Wang Yu , Zhang Lijie , Liu Cuicui , Li Jingwen , Ma Cuiqing , Xu Ping
Published: July 2012

Both
Bacillus licheniformis
strains 10-1-A and 5-2-D are efficient producers of 2,3-butanediol. Here we present 4.3-Mb and 4.2-Mb assemblies of their genomes. The key genes for the regulation and metabolism of 2,3-butanediol production were annotated, which may provide further insights into the molecular mechanism for the production of 2,3-butanediol with high yield and productivity.
Disk Diffusion and MIC Quality Control Ranges for BC-3205 and BC-3781, Two Novel Pleuromutilin Antibiotics
Authors: Ross James E. , Sader Helio S. , Ivezic-Schoenfeld Zrinka , Paukner Susanne , Jones Ronald N.
Published: July 2012

MIC and disk diffusion quality control (QC) ranges were established for two new pleuromutilin antimicrobials (BC-3205 and BC-3781) in an eight-laboratory study performed according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute M23-A3 guidelines.
Staphylococcus aureus
ATCC 29213 and 25923,
Streptococcus pneumoniae
ATCC 49619, and
Haemophilus influenzae
ATCC 4927 strains were evaluated. The proposed QC ranges would aid clinical laboratories in testing these compounds following their development for treatment of respiratory and cutaneous infections.
Analysis of Borderline Oxacillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (BORSA) Strains Isolated in Tunisia
Authors: Maalej Senda Mezghani , Rhimi Faouzia Mahjoubi , Fines Marguerite , Mnif Basma , Leclercq Roland , Hammami Adnene
Published: July 2012

Twenty-three strains of
Staphylococcus aureus
with borderline resistance to oxacillin were studied. These strains were not detected by the cefoxitin test, tests for penicillin-binding protein 2a (PBP2a),
mecA
, and
mecA
LGA251
were negative, and the strains were genetically unrelated. To detect all strains resistant to oxacillin, laboratories should routinely test for both cefoxitin and oxacillin.
Targeting both rs12979860 and rs8099917 Polymorphisms with a Single-Tube High-Resolution Melting Assay for
IL28B
Genotyping
Authors: Poon Kok Siong , Ho Sherry Sze Yee , Tang Julian Wei-Tze , Chua Cui Wen , Chiu Lily , Koay Evelyn Siew-Chuan
Published: July 2012

A rapid, duplex, high-resolution melting interleukin-28B gene (
IL28B
) genotyping assay, targeting both rs12979860 and rs8099917 polymorphisms, was developed and validated using 30 DNA samples from healthy volunteers. A linkage study on 300 healthy Singaporeans showed variable haplotypes. When the assay was applied to plasma DNA from 50 hepatitis C virus genotype-1 (HCV-1)-infected patients, five compound heterozygous types were detected.
Moloney Leukemia Virus Type 10 Inhibits Reverse Transcription and Retrotransposition of Intracisternal A Particles
Authors: Lu Chunye , Luo Zeping , Jäger Stefanie , Krogan Nevan J. , Peterlin B. Matija
Published: July 2012

Moloney leukemia virus type 10 protein (MOV10) is an RNA helicase that is induced by type I interferon. It inhibits HIV replication at several steps of its replicative cycle. Of interest, MOV10 is a component of mRNA processing (P) bodies, which inhibit retrotransposition (RTP) of intracisternal A particles (IAP). In this report, we studied the effects of MOV10 on IAP RTP and its dependence on P bodies. Indeed, MOV10 inhibited IAP RTP. It decreased significantly not only the products of reverse transcriptase but also its endogenous activity. MOV10 also associated with IAP RNA. Furthermore, although it was found in IAP virus-like particles, it did not affect their incorporation of IAP RNA, primer tRNAPhe (phenylalanine tRNA), or IAP Gag. Concerning P bodies, the exogenously expressed MOV10 had no effect on their size and number, and the inhibition of IAP RTP persisted despite the depletion of their RCK subunit. Thus, by interfering with reverse transcription, MOV10 inhibits IAP RTP, and this inhibition is independent of P bodies.
Construction of a Gammaretrovirus with a Novel Tropism and Wild-Type Replication Kinetics Capable of Using Human APJ as Entry Receptor
Authors: Bahrami Shervin , Pagh Kristina , Ejegod Ditte , Duch Mogens , Tolstrup Martin , Pedersen Finn Skou
Published: July 2012

We have constructed a replication-competent gammaretrovirus (SL3-AP) capable of using the human G-protein-coupled receptor hAPJ as its entry receptor. The envelope protein of the virus was made by insertion of the 13-amino-acid peptide ligand for hAPJ, flanked by linker sequences, into one of the variable loops of the receptor binding domain of SL3-2, a murine leukemia virus (MLV) that uses the xenotropic-polytropic virus receptor Xpr1 and which has a host range limited to murine cells. This envelope protein can utilize hAPJ as well as murine Xpr1 for entry into host cells with equal efficiencies. In addition, the SL3-AP virus replicates in cells expressing either of its receptors, hAPJ and murine Xpr1, and causes resistance to superinfection and downregulation of hAPJ in infected cells. Thus, SL3-AP is the first example of a retargeted replication-competent retrovirus, with replication characteristics and receptor interference properties similar to those of natural isolates.
Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome postautologous peripheral stem cell transplantation for multiple myeloma
Authors: Zaman Shahriar Raj
Published: July 2012

This is a case of a 56-year-old lady with recent autologous peripheral stem cell transplantation for multiple myeloma. She was presented with a 48 h history of worsening headache, drowsiness, nausea/vomiting and some peripheral neurological symptoms. She developed status epilepticus, was intubated and transferred to  intensive care unit. After full investigation with a CT head, CT cerebral angiogram, MRI brain and cerebral angiogram, she was diagnosed with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) with the help of expert opinion, based on the clinical and radiological evidence. The MRI showed bilateral occipital signal changes suggestive of PRES. She was managed with nimodipine, phenytoin and clonazepam with good effect. Eventually extubated, she made good progress on the ward with no further seizure episodes. Functionally she did not appear to have any evidence of residual damage from the PRES. This case discusses PRES on a background of a haematological malignancy and its clinical features.
Mapping of thecss(chloroplast splicing suppressor) gene(s) to a recombinationally suppressed region of chromosome III inChlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Luo Liming , Lee Jaesung , Herrin David L.
Published: July 2012

In previous work, three suppressors of defective group I introns (7151, 71N1, 7120) were isolated from a mutant of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii that had a splicing-deficient chloroplast large subunit (LSU) rRNA intron. Genetic analysis indicated that the 7151 and 71N1 suppressor mutations each involved single nuclear loci, and that the 7151 mutation was dominant. Here we present genetic evidence that the 7120 suppressor also involves a single nuclear locus and that the mutation is dominant in vegetative diploids. Moreover, we have employed crosses with the S1D2 strain and molecular markers to map the 7120 and 71N1 suppressors. Based on an analysis of 800 progeny from 7120 × S1D2, the 7120 suppressor is located in a region of ∼400 kb on chromosome III that is devoid of recombination. The ∼400-kb region contains at least 72 genes, about one-third of which (i.e., 22) are predicted to be organelle targeted. Similar analysis of 71N1 × S1D2 using 400 progeny also pointed to the recombination-deficient region of chromosome III, raising the possibility that these mutations could affect the same gene. These efforts lay the foundation for identifying the css (chloroplast splicing suppressor) gene(s), which promotes splicing of multiple chloroplast group I introns.
A continental comparison indicates long-term effects of forest management on understory diversity in coniferous forests1This article is one of a selection of papers from the 7th International Conference on Disturbance Dynamics in Boreal Forests.
Authors: Schmiedinger Andreas , Kreyling Juergen , Steinbauer Manuel J. , Macdonald S. Ellen , Jentsch Anke , Beierkuhnlein Carl
Published: July 2012

Promotion of species diversity has become a major goal in forestry. This requires an understanding of the impacts of management disturbance on species diversity relative to natural drivers such as climatic or edaphic conditions on the relevant temporal scales, i.e., centuries. We examined the effects of long-term management disturbance on understory plant diversity in coniferous forests by comparing structure types (ages since disturbance) between regions with comparable abiotic settings but contrasting management history, i.e., management for centuries in central Europe versus the first logging in primary forests in western Canada. We systematically sampled three age classes after disturbance and compared their alpha diversity and species composition. The structure types (age classes) showed similar differences in alpha diversity in both landscapes, while the response of species compositions differed between the two. Fewer late-successional specialists occurred in the European landscape. Within the setting of our study, the structure types, which reflect the time since major forest management disturbance, affected understory species richness and composition at least as strongly as environmental conditions such as climate, soil, and tree layer diversity across the broad altitudinal gradients that we sampled. Our results suggest that forest management affects the diversity of coniferous forests, with management for centuries disadvantaging late-successional specialists. Furthermore, it appears that human action is becoming the major determinant of diversity of coniferous forests, emphasizing the need for sustainable management schemes.
R. V. Dingle Ostracod Collection: Natural History Museum, London
Authors: Dingle R. V. , Miller C. Giles , Jones Clive
Published: July 2012

Abstract. The collection was donated to the Natural History Museum (NHM) between 2009 and 2011 and consists of 2534 slides. It comprises mainly marine ostracods of Jurassic to Holocene age from southern Africa (and its adjacent oceans), Antarctica and New Zealand. There is also a small collection of Quaternary non-marine ostracods from southwestern Africa, two sets of DSDP/ODP ostracods from the Southern Ocean, and one set of Cape Roberts Drilling Project (CRDP) ostracods from Victoria Land, East Antarctica. The individual slides in this collection have been computer registered. Further details of these can be found by inputting seach criteria based on information given in the paper to the NHM’s on-line catalogue at http://www.nhm.ac.uk/research-curation/collections/departmental-collections/palaeontology-collections/search/index.php.
Desirable trends in mobile communication
Authors: Wolisz Adam
Published: July 2012

Accommodation of the predicted rapid growth of mobile data traffic is creating serious challenges. In this paper, we separate the notion of mobile data service and the data transport needed for the service. We argue that it is desirable and feasible to mitigate the traffic volume needed for achieving satisfactory services. In addition, we argue that traffic volume is not a proper measure reflecting the "transportation effort" in mobile communication. Various means to reduce this "transportation effort" and measures to quantify it are discussed in this paper. We conclude that more effort should be devoted to mitigation of the traffic growth as well as efficient traffic organization in contrast to accommodating the traffic explosion by purely blowing up the communication capacity.
Intraoperative Stem Cell Therapy
Authors: Coelho Mónica Beato , Cabral Joaquim M.S. , Karp Jeffrey M.
Published: July 2012

Stem cells hold significant promise for regeneration of tissue defects and disease-modifying therapies. Although numerous promising stem cell approaches are advancing in clinical trials, intraoperative stem cell therapies offer more immediate hope by integrating an autologous cell source with a well-established surgical intervention in a single procedure. Herein, the major developments in intraoperative stem cell approaches, from in vivo models to clinical studies, are reviewed, and the potential regenerative mechanisms and the roles of different cell populations in the regeneration process are discussed. Although intraoperative stem cell therapies have been shown to be safe and effective for several indications, there are still critical challenges to be tackled prior to adoption into the standard surgical armamentarium.
Molecular inflammation and adipose tissue matrix remodeling precede physiological adaptations to pregnancy
Authors: Resi Veronica , Basu Subhabrata , Haghiac Maricela , Presley Larraine , Minium Judi , Kaufman Bram , Bernard Steven , Catalano Patrick , Hauguel-de Mouzon Sylvie
Published: July 2012

Changes in adipose tissue metabolism are central to adaptation of whole body energy homeostasis to pregnancy. To gain insight into the molecular mechanisms supporting tissue remodeling, we have characterized the longitudinal changes of the adipose transcriptome in human pregnancy. Healthy nonobese women recruited pregravid were followed in early (8–12 wk) and in late (36–38 wk) pregnancy. Adipose tissue biopsies were obtained in the fasting state from the gluteal depot. The adipose transcriptome was examined via whole genome DNA microarray. Expression of immune-related genes and extracellular matrix components was measured using real-time RT-PCR. Adipose mass, adipocyte size, and cell number increased in late pregnancy compared with pregravid measurements ( P < 0.001) but remained unchanged in early pregnancy. The adipose transcriptome evolved during pregnancy with 10–15% of genes being differently expressed compared with pregravid. Functional gene cluster analysis revealed that the early molecular changes affected immune responses, angiogenesis, matrix remodeling, and lipid biosynthesis. Increased expression of macrophage markers (CD68, CD14, and the mannose-6 phosphate receptor) emphasized the recruitment of the immune network in both early and late pregnancy. The TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway was enhanced specifically in relation to inflammatory adipokines and chemokines genes. We conclude that early recruitment of metabolic and immune molecular networks precedes the appearance of pregnancy-related physiological changes in adipose tissue. This biphasic pattern suggests that physiological inflammation is an early step preceding the development of insulin resistance, which peaks in late pregnancy.
Vasopressin V1a receptor is required for nucleocytoplasmic transport of mineralocorticoid receptor
Authors: Hori Kahori , Nagai Takanori , Izumi Yuichiro , Kimura Miho , Hasuike Yukiko , Nakayama Yushi , Nanami Masayoshi , Tokuyama Masanori , Otaki Yoshinaga , Kuragano Takahiro , Kohda Yukimasa , Obinata Masuo , Kawahara Katsumasa , Tanoue Akito , Tomita Kimio , Nakanishi Takeshi , Nonoguchi Hiroshi
Published: July 2012

We previously reported that a deficiency in the vasopressin V1a receptor (V1aR) results in type 4 renal tubular acidosis, which suggests that vasopressin exerts direct effects on the physiological actions of aldosterone. We investigated the role of vasopressin for nucleocytoplasmic transport of mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) in the intercalated cells. Vasopressin V1aR-deficient (V1aR−/−) mice showed largely decreased expression of MR and 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11βHSD2) in the medulla of the kidney, which was partially ameliorated by fludrocortisone treatment. The incubation of IN-IC cells, an intercalated cell line established from temperature-sensitive SV40 large T antigen-expressing rats, with aldosterone or vasopressin increased the nuclear-to-cytoplasmic ratio of the MR from 11.2 to 47.2% and from 18.7 to 61.2%, respectively, in 30 min without any changes in MR expression from the whole cell extract. The immunohistochemistry analysis of the IN-IC cells revealed the nuclear accumulation of MRs after a 30-min incubation with aldosterone or vasopressin. These effects were accompanied by an increase in regulator of chromosome condensation-1 (RCC-1) due to aldosterone and a decrease in Ran GTPase-activating protein 1 (Ran Gap1) due to vasopressin. RNA interference against V1aR abolished the nuclear accumulation of MR induced by aldosterone or vasopressin. Vasopressin increased PKCα and -β1 expression, and aldosterone increased PKCδ and -ζ expression, but these effects were abolished with a V1aR knockdown. These results suggest that vasopressin directly regulates the nucleocytoplasmic transport of MRs via the V1aR in the intercalated cells of the collecting ducts.
Podocyte-specific knockout of myosin 1e disrupts glomerular filtration
Authors: Chase Sharon E. , Encina Christina V. , Stolzenburg Lindsay R. , Tatum Arthur H. , Holzman Lawrence B. , Krendel Mira
Published: July 2012

Myosin 1e (myo1e) is an actin-dependent molecular motor that plays an important role in kidney functions. Complete knockout of myo1e in mice and Myo1E mutations in humans are associated with nephrotic syndrome and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. In this paper, we tested the hypothesis that myo1e is necessary for normal functions of glomerular visceral epithelial cells (podocytes) using podocyte-targeted knockout of myo1e. Myo1e was selectively knocked out in podocytes using Cre-mediated recombination controlled by the podocin promoter. Myo1e loss from podocytes resulted in proteinuria, podocyte foot process effacement, and glomerular basement membrane disorganization. Our findings indicate that myo1e expression in podocytes is necessary for normal glomerular filtration and that podocyte defects are likely to represent the primary pathway leading to glomerular disease associated with Myo1E mutations.