bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large scale interaction analysis predicts that the Gerbera hybrida floral E function is provided both by general and specialized proteins
Authors: Ruokolainen Satu , Ng Yan Peng , Albert Victor A , Elomaa Paula , Teeri Teemu H
Published: June 2010

Background

The ornamental plant Gerbera hybrida bears complex inflorescences with morphologically distinct floral morphs that are specific to the sunflower family Asteraceae. We have previously characterized several MADS box genes that regulate floral development in Gerbera. To study further their behavior in higher order complex formation according to the quartet model, we performed yeast two- and three-hybrid analysis with fourteen Gerbera MADS domain proteins to analyze their protein-protein interaction potential.

Results

The exhaustive pairwise interaction analysis showed significant differences in the interaction capacity of different Gerbera MADS domain proteins compared to other model plants. Of particular interest in these assays was the behavior of SEP-like proteins, known as GRCDs in Gerbera. The previously described GRCD1 and GRCD2 proteins, which are specific regulators involved in stamen and carpel development, respectively, showed very limited pairwise interactions, whereas the related GRCD4 and GRCD5 factors displayed hub-like positions in the interaction map. We propose GRCD4 and GRCD5 to provide a redundant and general E function in Gerbera, comparable to the SEP proteins in Arabidopsis. Based on the pairwise interaction data, combinations of MADS domain proteins were further subjected to yeast three-hybrid assays. Gerbera B function proteins showed active behavior in ternary complexes. All Gerbera SEP-like proteins with the exception of GRCD1 were excellent partners for B function proteins, further implicating the unique role of GRCD1 as a whorl- and flower-type specific C function partner.

Conclusions

Gerbera MADS domain proteins exhibit both conserved and derived behavior in higher order protein complex formation. This protein-protein interaction data can be used to classify and compare Gerbera MADS domain proteins to those of Arabidopsis and Petunia. Combined with our reverse genetic studies of Gerbera, these results reinforce the roles of different genes in the floral development of Gerbera. Building up the elaborate capitulum of Gerbera calls for modifications and added complexity in MADS domain protein behavior compared to the more simple flowers of, e.g., Arabidopsis.
Molecular understanding of sterically controlled compound release through an engineered channel protein (FhuA)
Authors: Güven Arcan , Fioroni Marco , Hauer Bernhard , Schwaneberg Ulrich
Published: June 2010

Background

Recently we reported a nanocontainer based reduction triggered release system through an engineered transmembrane channel (FhuA Δ1-160; Onaca et al., 2008). Compound fluxes within the FhuA Δ1-160 channel protein are controlled sterically through labeled lysine residues (label: 3-(2-pyridyldithio)propionic-acid-N-hydroxysuccinimide-ester). Quantifying the sterical contribution of each labeled lysine would open up an opportunity for designing compound specific drug release systems.

Results

In total, 12 FhuA Δ1-160 variants were generated to gain insights on sterically controlled compound fluxes: Subset A) six FhuA Δ1-160 variants in which one of the six lysines in the interior of FhuA Δ1-160 was substituted to alanine and Subset B) six FhuA Δ1-160 variants in which only one lysine inside the barrel was not changed to alanine. Translocation efficiencies were quantified with the colorimetric TMB (3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine) detection system employing horseradish peroxidase (HRP). Investigation of the six subset A variants identified position K556A as sterically important. The K556A substitution increases TMB diffusion from 15 to 97 [nM]/s and reaches nearly the TMB diffusion value of the unlabeled FhuA Δ1-160 (102 [nM]/s). The prominent role of position K556 is confirmed by the corresponding subset B variant which contains only the K556 lysine in the interior of the barrel. Pyridyl labeling of K556 reduces TMB translocation to 16 [nM]/s reaching nearly background levels in liposomes (13 [nM]/s). A first B-factor analysis based on MD simulations confirmed that position K556 is the least fluctuating lysine among the six in the channel interior of FhuA Δ1-160 and therefore well suited for controlling compound fluxes through steric hindrance.

Conclusions

A FhuA Δ1-160 based reduction triggered release system has been shown to control the compound flux by the presence of only one inner channel sterical hindrance based on 3-(2-pyridyldithio)propionic-acid labeling (amino acid position K556). As a consequence, the release kinetic can be modulated by introducing an opportune number of hindrances. The FhuA Δ1-160 channel embedded in liposomes can be advanced to a universal and compound independent release system which allows a size selective compound release through rationally re-engineered channels.
Association of ABO blood groups with Chikungunya virus
Authors: Kumar Naresh CVM , Nadimpalli Mahathi , Vardhan Vishnu R , Gopal Sai DVR
Published: June 2010

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) an emerging arboviral infection of public health concern belongs to the genus Alphavirus, family Togaviridae. Blood group antigens are generally known to act as receptors for various etiological agents. The studies defining the relationship between blood groups and CHIKV is limited and hence it is necessary to study these parameters in detail. In the present study 1500 subjects were enrolled and demographic data (Age, Gender, Blood group, CHIKV infection status, and CHIKV infection confirmation mode) was collected from them. The risk of acquiring CHIKV disease and its association with factors such as blood group, age and gender was analyzed statistically. The data of this study showed a possible association between blood group, age and gender of the study population with CHIKV infection. It is observed that CHIKV infections were higher in individuals with Rh positive blood group when compared to their Rh negative counterparts.CHIKV infections were found to be higher in Rh positive individuals of AB and A blood groups than that of Rh negative counterparts. Results also indicated that infections were higher in adults belonging to the age group > 30 years and also higher in males as compared to females enrolled in this study. These data present further evidence for the association of the blood groups, age and gender to susceptibility to CHIKV infection. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings. This is the second study showing the possible association of blood groups with chikungunya.
Mycoplasmoses of ruminants in France: recent data from the national surveillance network
Authors: Chazel Myriam , Tardy Florence , Le Grand Dominique , Calavas Didier , Poumarat François
Published: June 2010

Background

Ruminant mycoplasmoses are important diseases worldwide and several are listed by the World Organization for Animal Health to be of major economic significance. In France the distribution of mycoplasmal species isolated from clinical samples collected from diseased animals upon veterinary request, is monitored by a network known as VIGIMYC (for VIGIlance to MYCoplasmoses of ruminants). The veterinary diagnostic laboratories collaborating with VIGIMYC are responsible for isolating the mycoplasmas while identification of the isolates is centralized by the French Food Safety Agency (AFSSA) in Lyon. The VIGIMYC framework can also be used for specific surveys and one example, on the prevalence of M. bovis in bovine respiratory diseases, is presented here.

Results

Between 2003 and 2008, 34 laboratories were involved in the network and 1904 mycoplasma isolates, originating from the main ruminant-breeding areas, were identified. For cattle, the high prevalence of M. bovis in bronchopneumonia, notably in young animals, was confirmed by VIGIMYC and an associated specific survey, whereas the non-emergence of species such as M. alkalescens and M. canis was also demonstrated. The etiological agent of bovine contagious pleuropneumonia was never isolated. The principal mycoplasmosis in goats was contagious agalactia with M. mycoides subsp. capri as main agent. Ovine mycoplasmoses, most of which were associated with pneumonia in lambs, were infrequently reported. One exception was ovine contagious agalactia (due to M. agalactiae) that has recently re-emerged in the Pyrénées where it had been endemic for years and was also reported in Corsica, which was previously considered free.

Conclusions

Although VIGIMYC is a passive network and somewhat biased as regards sample collection and processing, it has provided, in this study, an overview of the main mycoplasmoses of ruminants in France. The French epidemiological situation is compared to those existing elsewhere in the world.
Apremilast, a novel PDE4 inhibitor, inhibits spontaneous production of tumour necrosis factor-alpha from human rheumatoid synovial cells and ameliorates experimental arthritis
Authors: McCann Fiona E , Palfreeman Andrew C , Andrews Melanie , Perocheau Dany P , Inglis Julia J , Schafer Peter , Feldmann Marc , Williams Richard O , Brennan Fionula M
Published: June 2010

Introduction

Type 4 phosphodiesterases (PDE4) play an important role in immune cells through the hydrolysis of the second messenger, cAMP. Inhibition of PDE4 has previously been shown to suppress immune and inflammatory responses, demonstrating PDE4 to be a valid therapeutic target for immune-mediated pathologies. We assessed the anti-inflammatory effects of a novel PDE4 inhibitor, apremilast, in human synovial cells from rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, as well as two murine models of arthritis.

Methods

Cells liberated from tissue excised from arthritic joints of RA patients were cultured in the presence of increasing concentrations of apremilast for 48 hours and spontaneous tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) production was analysed in culture supernatants by ELISA. In addition, arthritis was induced in BALB/c and DBA/1 mice by passive transfer of anti-type II collagen mAb and immunisation with type II collagen, respectively. Mice with established arthritis received 5 or 25 mg/kg apremilast and disease severity was monitored relative to mice receiving vehicle alone. At the end of the study, paws were removed and processed for histopathological assessment. Behavioural effects of apremilast, relative to rolipram, were assessed in naïve DBA/1 mice using an automated activity monitor (LABORAS).

Results

Apremilast dose dependently inhibited spontaneous release of TNFα from human rheumatoid synovial membrane cultures. Furthermore, apremilast significantly reduced clinical score in both murine models of arthritis over a ten day treatment period and maintained a healthy joint architecture in a dose-dependent manner. Importantly, unlike rolipram, apremilast demonstrated no adverse behavioural effects in naïve mice.

Conclusions

Apremilast is an orally available PDE4 inhibitor that reduces TNFα production from human synovial cells and significantly suppresses experimental arthritis. Apremilast appears to be a potential new agent for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
New insights into the pathogenesis of glucocorticoid-induced avascular necrosis: microarray analysis of gene expression in a rat model
Authors: Kerachian Mohammad Amin , Cournoyer Denis , Harvey Edward J , Chow Terry Y , Bégin Louis R , Nahal Ayoub , Séguin Chantal
Published: June 2010

Introduction

Avascular necrosis of the femoral head (ANFH) occurs variably after exposure to corticosteroids. Microvascular thrombosis is a common pathological finding. Since systemic thrombophilia is only weakly linked with ANFH, we propose that microvascular vessel pathology may be more related to local endothelial dysfunction and femoral head apoptosis. Corticosteroid effects on the endothelium and resultant apoptosis have been reported. We hypothesize that corticosteroids contribute to a differential gene expression in the femoral head in rats with early ANFH.

Methods

Besides bone marrow necrosis, which is a common sign in ANFH and reported in the early stages, we include the presence of apoptosis in this study as a criterion for diagnosing early disease. Forty Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats were randomized to either a corticosteroid-treated group or an age-matched control group for six months. After sacrifice, the femoral heads were examined for ANFH. Total mRNA was extracted from femoral heads. Affymetrix exon array (Santa Clara, CA, USA) was performed on 15 selected RNA samples. Validation methods included RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry (IHC).

Results

Although rat exon array demonstrated a significant upregulation of 51 genes (corticosteroid(+)/ANFH(+) VS control), alpha-2-macroglobulin (A2M) gene was particularly over-expressed. Results were validated by RT-PCR and IHC. Importantly, A2M is known to share vascular, osteogenic and cartilage functions relevant for ANFH.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that corticosteroid-induced ANFH in rats might be mediated by A2M. Investigation of A2M as a potential marker, and a treatment target, for early ANFH should be carried out.
Innate immune processes are sufficient for driving silicosis in mice
Authors: Beamer Celine A , Migliaccio Christopher T , Jessop Forrest , Trapkus Melanie , Yuan Dorothy , Holian Andrij
Published: June 2010

Although silica-induced fibrosis and inflammation occurs independently of T, B, NK T, and NK cells, lymphocytes regulate inflammation via modulation of the Nlrp3 inflammasome.

The lung is constantly exposed to potentially pathogenic particles and microorganisms. It has become evident recently that not only innate but also adaptive immune responses to particulates, such as SiO2 entering the respiratory tract, are complex and dynamic events. Although the cellular mechanisms and anatomical consequences involved in the development of silicosis have been studied extensively, they still remain poorly understood. Based on their capacity for immune regulation, lymphocytes may play a key role in the respiratory response to environmental challenge by SiO2. The objective of this study was to characterize the impact of SiO2 exposure on respiratory immune processes, with particular emphasis on evaluating the importance of lymphocytes in the murine silicosis model. Therefore, lymphopenic mice, including NK-deficient, Rag1−/−, or a combination (Rag1−/− NK-depleted), were used and demonstrated that SiO2-induced fibrosis and inflammation can occur independently of T, B, NK T, and NK cells. Studies in Rag1−/− mice suggest further that lymphocytes may participate in the regulation of SiO2-induced inflammation through modulation of the Nalp3 inflammasome. This observation may have clinical relevance in the treatment of inflammatory and fibrotic lung diseases that are refractory or respond suboptimally to current therapeutics.
Buccal pumping mechanics ofXenopus laevistadpoles: effects of biotic and abiotic factors
Authors: Ryerson William G. , Deban Stephen M.
Published: June 2010

Biotic factors such as body size and shape have long been known to influence kinematics in vertebrates. Movement in aquatic organisms can also be strongly affected by abiotic factors such as the viscosity of the medium. We examined the effects of both biotic factors and abiotic factors on buccal pumping kinematics in Xenopus tadpoles using high-speed imaging of an ontogenetic series of tadpoles combined with experimental manipulation of the medium over a 10-fold range of viscosity. We found influences of both biotic and abiotic factors on tadpole movements; absolute velocities and excursions of the jaws and hyoid were greater in higher viscosity fluid but durations of movements were unaffected. Smaller tadpoles have relatively wider heads and more robust hyoid muscles used in buccal expansion and compression. Lever arm ratios were found to be constant at all sizes; therefore, smaller tadpoles have relatively higher resolved muscle forces and, like tadpoles in more viscous medium, displayed higher absolute velocities of jaw and hyoid movements. Nonetheless, small tadpoles drew in water at lower Reynolds numbers (Re) than predicted by kinematics, due to negative allometry of the buccal pump. Finally, tadpoles transitioned from a flow regime dominated by viscous forces (Re=2) to an intermediate regime (Re=106).
Adrenergic control of swimbladder deflation in the zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Dumbarton Tristan C. , Stoyek Matthew , Croll Roger P. , Smith Frank M.
Published: June 2010

Many teleosts actively regulate buoyancy by adjusting gas volume in the swimbladder. In physostomous fishes such as the zebrafish, a connection is maintained between the swimbladder and the oesophagus via the pneumatic duct for the inflation and deflation of this organ. Here we investigated the role of adrenergic stimulation of swimbladder wall musculature in deflation of the swimbladder. Noradrenaline (NA), the sympathetic neurotransmitter (dosage 10−6 to 10−5 mol l−1), doubled the force of smooth muscle contraction in isolated tissue rings from the anterior chamber, caused a doubling of pressure in this chamber in situ, and evoked gas expulsion through the pneumatic duct, deflating the swimbladder to approximately 85% of the pre-NA volume. These effects were mediated by β-adrenergic receptors, representing a novel role for these receptors in vertebrates. No effects of adrenergic stimulation were detected in the posterior chamber. In a detailed examination of the musculature and innervation of the swimbladder to determine the anatomical substrate for these functional results, we found that the anterior chamber contained an extensive ventral band of smooth muscle with fibres organized into putative motor units, richly innervated by tyrosine hydroxylase-positive axons. Additionally, a novel arrangement of folds in the lumenal connective tissue in the wall of the anterior chamber was described that may permit small changes in muscle length to cause large changes in effective wall distensibility and hence chamber volume. Taken together, these data strongly suggest that deflation of the zebrafish swimbladder occurs primarily by β-adrenergically mediated contraction of smooth muscle in the anterior chamber and is under the control of the sympathetic limb of the autonomic nervous system.
Effects of nutritional condition on spring migration: do migrants use resource availability to keep pace with a changing world?
Authors: Bridge Eli S. , Kelly Jeffrey F. , Bjornen Paul E. , Curry Claire M. , Crawford Priscilla H. C. , Paritte Jacqueline M.
Published: June 2010

Because of their reliance on temporally predictable resources across large spatial scales, migratory birds may be especially vulnerable to anthropogenic climate and land-use changes. Although some long-distance migrants appear unable to adjust to phenological shifts on their wintering grounds, several short- and medium-distance migrants appear to have altered the timing and/or distance of their yearly movements to compensate for the environmental effects of global warming. Which environmental cues are responsible for stimulating these adjustments is an unanswered question, although most studies have focused on weather conditions. Here, we present a novel field experiment that demonstrates that an alternative cue, food availability, may be a crucial link between local conditions on the wintering grounds and the timing of spring departure. When we provided dark-eyed juncos (Junco hyemalis) with an abundant food supply in early spring, we observed an advance in migration, especially among individuals that increased their mass and fat stores in response to the treatment. This finding indicates a simple mechanism by which short-distance migrants may calibrate their migration behavior such that arrival on the breeding grounds and initiation of reproduction are in sync with resource availability.
Northern gannets anticipate the spatio–temporal occurrence of their prey
Authors: Pettex E. , Bonadonna F. , Enstipp M. R. , Siorat F. , Grémillet D.
Published: June 2010

Seabirds, as other marine top predators, are often assumed to forage in an unpredictable environment. We challenge this concept and test the hypothesis that breeding Northern gannets (Morus bassanus) anticipate the spatio–temporal occurrence of their prey in the English Channel. We analyzed 23 foraging tracks of Northern gannets breeding on Rouzic Island (Brittany) that were recorded using GPS loggers during 2 consecutive years. All birds commuted between the breeding colony and foraging areas located at a mean distance of 85 km and 72 km (in 2005 and 2006, respectively) from the colony. Mean linearity indices of the outbound and inbound trips were between 0.83 and 0.87, approaching a beeline path to and from the foraging area. Additional parameters (flight speed, and number and duration of stopovers at sea) for the outbound and inbound trip were not statistically different, indicating that birds are capable of locating these feeding areas in the absence of visual clues, and to pin-point their breeding site when returning from the sea. Our bearing choice analysis also revealed that gannets anticipate the general direction of their foraging area during the first 30 min and the first 10 km of the trip. These results strongly suggest that birds anticipate prey location, rather than head into a random direction until encountering a profitable area. Further investigations are necessary to identify the mechanisms involved in seabird resource localization, such as sensorial abilities, memory effects, public information or a combination of these factors.
Cold-acclimation-induced non-shivering thermogenesis in birds is associated with upregulation of avian UCP but not with innate uncoupling or altered ATP efficiency
Authors: Teulier Loïc , Rouanet Jean-Louis , Letexier Dominique , Romestaing Caroline , Belouze Maud , Rey Benjamin , Duchamp Claude , Roussel Damien
Published: June 2010

Despite their lack of brown adipose tissue, some bird species develop regulatory non-shivering thermogenesis (NST) of skeletal muscle origin in response to cold acclimation. Mechanisms involved in avian NST are still unclear but may involve reduced energetic coupling in skeletal muscle mitochondria through the expression of an avian homologue of mammalian uncoupling proteins. The aim of this work was to investigate whether the expression of avian uncoupling protein (avUCP) would correlate with the capacity for cold-induced muscle NST. Various levels of cold acclimation were obtained by rearing 1-week-old ducklings (Cairina moschata) for 4 weeks at three different ambient temperatures (25°C, 11°C or 4°C). Muscle NST was measured by simultaneous recordings of metabolic rate and electromyographic activity (gastrocnemius muscle) at ambient temperatures (Ta) ranging from 27°C to −5°C. The expression of avUCP gene and mitochondrial bioenergetics were also determined in gastrocnemius muscle. Results showed that muscle NST capacity depends on the Ta at which ducklings were acclimated, i.e. the lower the rearing temperature, the higher the capacity for NST. This increased metabolic heat production occurred in parallel with an upregulation of avUCP, which was not associated with a change in mitochondrial membrane conductance. The intensity of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation also increased in proportion with the harshness of cold, while the efficiency of ATP generation was equally effective in all three acclimation temperatures. In the absence of mitochondrial uncoupling, these data indicate a clear link between avUCP expression and the capacity of ducklings to adjust their muscular aerobic activity to cold exposure.
Better LATE Than Nothing: Some Comments on Deaton (2009) and Heckman and Urzua (2009)
Authors: Imbens Guido W
Published: June 2010

Two recent papers, Deaton (2009) and Heckman and Urzua (2009), argue against what they see as an excessive and inappropriate use of experimental and quasi-experimental methods in empirical work in economics in the last decade. They specifically question the increased use of instrumental variables and natural experiments in labor economics and of randomized experiments in development economics. In these comments, I will make the case that this move toward shoring up the internal validity of estimates, and toward clarifying the description of the population these estimates are relevant for, has been important and beneficial in increasing the credibility of empirical work in economics. I also address some other concerns raised by the Deaton and Heckman–Urzua papers. (JEL C21, C31)
Evaluation of a multiplex assay for adipokine concentrations in obese children
Authors: Martos-Moreno Gabriel Á. , Burgos-Ramos Emma , Canelles Sandra , Argente Jesús , Barrios Vicente
Published: June 2010

Background: Multiplexed bead immunoassays allow simultaneous measurement of adipokines and other hormones in small serum samples, although a validation of this technique with classical methods has not been fully established. The purpose of this pilot study was to compare the characteristics of a multiplexed bead immunoassay obesity panel for insulin and various adipokines with classical methods.

Methods: A multiplexed bead immunoassay was performed using serum from 20 obese children at baseline and after reducing their body mass index, and in 25 controls. Insulin, adiponectin, leptin, resistin, tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 measured by multiplexed bead immunoassay were compared with results obtained from commercial immunoassays. Correlation, sensitivity, recovery, linearity, performance and imprecision were established for each analyte.

Results: The correlation between methods was acceptable for adiponectin, leptin, and insulin with coefficients of 0.75–0.89 (p<0.001). Correlation was weak for resistin (0.54, p<0.001) and poor (r<0.30) for tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6. However, Bland-Altman analysis indicated agreement for insulin methods (bias=–0.07), avoiding direct comparison with other analytes (bias>1.25). The imprecision was similar for both methods (<13%). Multiplexed immunoassay had a broader dynamic range than classical methods (4.94 times). The magnitude of the changes in serum concentrations after weight loss was comparable with both methods for adiponectin, leptin, insulin and resistin, resulting in similar statistical significance. Changes in tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 were detected by classical immunoassays only (p<0.05).

Conclusions: This study demonstrates that multiplexed bead immunoassay is more cost effective for measurement of adipokines present in relatively large amounts, diminishing inter-assay variations and reducing the sample volume.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:1439–46.
The semantic role of the wh-element and subject position in Spanish and Catalan
Authors: Adli Aria
Published: June 2010

This work presents experimental results on the position of the subject in
Contact-induced changes in cliticization and word order: the Cimbrian dialect of Luserna as a case study
Authors: Kolmer Agnes
Published: June 2010

Which properties of a cliticization system can be borrowed relatively easily and which ones are harder to adapt due to external influence? This article examines the contact situation of the Cimbrian dialect spoken in Luserna as a starting point for a discussion of this question. It presents new data on a German variety which has been exposed to intensive contact with Italian and its local varieties over several generations. The article shows that certain peculiarities of the Cimbrian cliticization system result on the one hand from word order changes and on the other hand from the imitation and integration of the model language’s strategies for mapping information structure onto sentence form.
Atlantic Sturgeon Vessel-Strike Mortalities in the Delaware Estuary
Authors: Brown J. Jed , Murphy Gregory W.
Published: June 2010

The Atlantic Sturgeon Status Review Team has recommended that the Secretary of Commerce list the New York Bight distinct population segment of Atlantic sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrinchus oxyrinchus), which includes the Delaware River and Hudson River populations, as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act. Between 2005 and 2008, a total of 28 Atlantic sturgeon mortalities were reported in the Delaware Estuary. Sixty-one percent of the mortalities reported were of adult size and 50% of the mortalities resulted from apparent vessel strikes. The remainder of the mortalities were too decomposed to ascertain the cause of death, but the majority were likely the result of vessel strikes. For small remnant populations of Atlantic sturgeon, such as that in the Delaware River, the loss of just a few individuals per year due to anthropogenic sources of mortality, such as vessel strikes, may continue to hamper restoration efforts. An-egg-per-recruit analysis demonstrated that vessel-strike mortalities could be detrimental to the population if more than 2.5% of the female sturgeon are killed annually. We report on our observations of vessel-strike mortalities in the Delaware Estuary, discuss the possible implications for the Delaware River population, and recommend further research.

Resumen

El grupo de trabajo que revisa el estado del esturión del Atlántico recomendó que la Secretaría de Comercio enliste al segmento distintivo de la población de esturión del Atlántico (Acipenser oxyrinchus oxyrinchus) que habita en la Bahía de Nueva York, la cual incluye a las poblaciones de los ríos Delaware y Hudson, como especie amenazada dentro del Acta Federal de Especies en Peligro. Entre 2005 y 2008, se reportó un total de 28 esturiónes muertos en el estuario Delaware. Sesenta y un porciento de dichos animales eran de talla adulta y 50% de las mortalidades parecen haber sido resultado de colisiones con embarcaciones. El resto de los individuos muertos se encontraban en un estado de descomposición tan avanzado que no fue posible determinar la causa de muerte, sin embargo la mayoría de ellos muy probablemente perecieron como resultado de una colisión. Para las pocas poblaciones remanentes del esturión del Atlántico, como aquellas que habitan el río Delaware, la pérdida anual de algunos pocos individuos por mortalidad antropogénica, como la provocada por las colisiones con embarcaciones, pueden entorpecer los esfuerzos de restauración. Mediante un análisis de huevos por recluta se demostró que las mortalidades causadas por impacto con embarcaciones pueden ir en detrimento de la población, si perecen más de 2.5 por ciento de las hembras por año. En la presente contribución reportamos nuestras observaciones sobre la mortalidad de esturiones el estuario Delaware causadas por colisión con embarcaciones, se discuten las posibles implicaciones para la población del río Delaware y se recomiendan futuras líneas de investigación.
Systemic miRNA-195 Differentiates Breast Cancer from Other Malignancies and Is a Potential Biomarker for Detecting Noninvasive and Early Stage Disease
Authors: Heneghan Helen M. , Miller Nicola , Kelly Ronan , Newell John , Kerin Michael J.
Published: June 2010

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Describe the site-specific dysregulation of some miRNAs and explain their potential as non-invasive biomarkers for diagnosis, prognostication, or markers of treatment response.Cite the characteristics reflected by circulating miR-195 and explain how elevated levels could be used as a breast tumor marker.

CME This article is available for continuing medical education credit at CME.TheOncologist.com

Purpose.

The potential of microRNAs (miRNAs) as novel tumor markers has been the focus of recent scrutiny because of their tissue specificity, stability, and association with clinicopathological parameters. Data have emerged documenting altered systemic miRNA expression across a spectrum of cancers; however, it remains uncertain as to whether circulating miRNAs are tumor specific. Our aim was to assess a panel of cancer-associated miRNAs in the circulation of patients with various malignancies, to determine whether these “oncomirs” were tumor specific, and thus to establish whether systemic miRNA analysis has utility in cancer diagnosis.

Patients and Methods.

Whole blood samples were prospectively collected from preoperative cancer patients (breast, prostate, colon, and renal cancer and melanoma; n = 163) and healthy age- and sex-matched controls (n = 63). Total RNA was isolated, and a panel of seven miRNAs was quantified by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction in each sample.

Results.

Differential expression of the general oncomirs let 7a, miR-10b, and miR-155, was observed in the majority of cancer patients in a nonspecific manner. Significantly, elevated circulating miR-195 was found to be breast cancer specific and could differentiate breast cancer from other cancers and from controls with a sensitivity of 88% at a specificity of 91%. A combination of three circulating miRNAs, including miR-195, further enhanced the discriminative power of this test for breast cancer to 94%.

Conclusion.

These findings suggest that individual cancers display specific systemic miRNA profiles, which could aid in discriminating among cancer types. This finding is of notable clinical consequence because it illustrates the potential of systemic miRNAs as sensitive, specific, noninvasive cancer biomarkers.
Review of the performance of full-scale MBR plants: design, operation and on-site experimental data
Authors: Pattanayak S.K. , Chang S. , Theodoulou M. , Mahendraker V.
Published: June 2010

The membrane bioreactor (MBR) process has become an effective alternative wastewater treatment technology that produces effluent with excellent quality. Globally, a wide range of municipal and industrial MBR plants are in operation, varying both in size and complexity. The objective of this investigation was to develop a better understanding of the long term performance of MBR plants. To achieve this objective, eight full-scale municipal MBR plants were examined. The methodology included a review of plant design parameters, pre-treatment system, biological operation, membrane operation, disinfection system and nutrient removal system. In addition, on-site tests were done on permeate, final effluent and mixed liquor to understand MBR performance.
Removal of organic compounds of real textile dyeing wastewater by pilot scale combination process of anoxic baffled reactor-hybrid membrane bioreactor
Authors: Yan Z. S. , Wang S. H. , Kang X. K. , Ma Y.
Published: June 2010

A pilot-scale combination process of anoxic baffled reactor -hybrid membrane bioreactor for the real textile dyeing wastewater treatment was investigated. Anoxic baffled reactor as a hydrolysis process pre-treatment was performed well, which achieved 35.6 % COD removal efficiency when hydraulic retention time (HRT) was 16 h. The total COD removal efficiency of the combined process was 83.8 %. GC-MS analysis results demonstrated that the main component of raw influent was alkanes including 13 types. After hydrolysis process, the types of alkanes decreased to 5. In subsequent aerobic treatment phase, alkanes of supernatant of HMBR increased to 19, but total organic compounds category decreased to 24. New intermediate CholestaN-3β-ol production demonstrated that some complicated structures or large molecules substances in raw wastewater could be decomposed. GC-MS quantitative analysis results further showed that some toxic and hazardous substances, such as toluene, styrene, 1,2-dichlorobenzene were still in the final effluent. However toxic compounds e.g. phenols could be removed in the subsequent aerobic process. Therefore, most organic pollutants could be removed using the combined process. There were still some amounts of toxic compounds present in the final effluent.
Effect of coagulation and PAC pretreatment on the fouling of MF and UF
Authors: Nie L. , Chu H. Q. , Dong B. Z. , Liu Z.
Published: June 2010

The water samples were fractionated by PES ultrafiltration (UF) membranes with molecular weight cutoffs (MWCOs) of 10kDa□30kDa and PVDF UF membrane with MWCOs of 100kDa, and these permeates were filtrated by PVDF UF membrane with MWCOs of 150kDa and CA microfiltration (MF) membrane with a 0.1μm pore size, as to investigate influence of nature organic matter (NOM) with different MWCOs on flux. The results demonstrated that NOM larger than 30kDa accounting for 15% of total organic matter resulted in 86% of flux decline for MF and 54% for UF, respectively. It was shown that coagulation removed the NOM larger than 100kDa that resulted in over 40% of flux decline. As a result, in spite of removing only 10% of NOM, coagulation enhanced flux substantially. Powdered active carbon (PAC) removed NOM smaller than 30kDa that showed little contribution to flux decline. Therefore, PAC removed 76% of NOM but showed little contribution to enhance flux. It can be concluded that the effect of pretreatment on enhancing flux can not be depended on amounts of NOM removed but on its contribution to flux decline.
Seawater desalination with memstill technology - a sustainable solution for the industry
Authors: Dotremont C. , Kregersman B. , Sih R. , Lai K. C. , Koh K. , Seah H.
Published: June 2010

Membrane Distillation may be applied over several different configurations to carry out seawater desalination. Using a microporous non-selective hydrophobic membrane, a finite air gap, and a cool surface in a particular arrangement, heat transfer may be employed to drive the transport of only water vapour across the membrane. Several limitations in conventional Membrane Distillation platforms dramatically reduce the viability of this water purification technology, namely low transmembrane fluxes, high thermal energy requirements, and low freshwater recovery rates. Keppel Seghers, through the logical application of system integration expertise, has succeeded in systematically removing these limitations during the development of Memstill technology. Memstill technology is a proprietary application of Membrane Distillation in an ideal counter-current flow configuration which allows for highly efficient recovery of heat within the desalination process. The recovery of heat within the Memstill process allows desalination to be driven with a minimal heat input. As such, Memstill desalination may be conducted using waste heat sources that would otherwise be rejected to the atmosphere. In addition, the efficient recovery of heat from the outlet stream of Memstill implies that it may be discharged at significantly lower temperatures than conventional thermal Membrane Distillation platforms. Keppel Seghers has conducted three previous pilot trials of Memstill technology, and is prepared to design, build, own and operate a Memstill demonstration plant with a freshwater production capacity of about 100 m3/day on a petroleum refinery in Singapore. This work will be carried out with the support of PUB.
Pilot Study of a Low-Pressure Membrane System Treating Surface Water of the Qiantang River
Authors: Han X. , Liu C. , Sellerberg W. , Wachinski A.
Published: June 2010

To meet increasingly stringent drinking water regulations and to accommodate worsening water quality due to pollution, a large water company in southeast China evaluated hollow fiber membrane technology to upgrade one of its water treatment plants. Pilot studies using a Pall microfiltration (MF) unit were performed to provide information for the process design of the plant. Low-pressure membranes (microfiltration and ultrafiltration) were determined to be cost-effective and reliable technology to integrate into the existing treatment plant.

The results of the pilot studies indicate that pretreatment had a strong impact on membrane performance. Three different pretreatment trains were tested. The treatment train consisting of coagulation – sedimentation – GAC filter proved to be the most effective based on the rate of increase in trans-membrane pressure (TMP). Water quality monitoring at the various points of the treatment train indicated excellent removal of fecal coliforms and oxidized (iron and manganese) by MF, and NH3 reduction via nitrification in GAC filters. These data demonstrated that low-pressure microfiltration membrane can be effectively integrated with traditional treatment processes to provide high quality water regardless of raw water quality.
On the Efficiency of New Designed Flow Distributor for Large Diameter Membranes
Authors: Couturier S. , Marteil Ph. , Bréant Ph. , Suty H.
Published: June 2010

According a consortium of membranes manufacturers, it appears that 16 inches is the optimum diameter for membrane design in view of the tradeoff between cost savings and the additional risk and diminishing return associated with even larger modules and vessels. To increase the water productivity per membrane, some manufacturers provide new designed flow distributor (replacing common Anti-Telescoping Device) which allows working at very high flux. In this study, efficiency of such device is evaluated by following hydraulic and rejection performances of two 16 inch membranes installed in a potable water plant (surface water). In this work and in operating conditions applied (22 and 30 lmh), no influence of the specific flow distributor was observed.
Studies on Fouling and its Prevention in MBRs
Authors: Siembida B. , Cornel P. , Krause S. , Zimmermann B.
Published: June 2010

Investigations of fouling alleviation and permeability decline in membrane bioreactors (MBR) were carried out at two pilot plants. On the one hand, the minimization of membrane fouling via adding abrasive granulates into activated sludge (submerged operated membrane) was tested. On the other hand, the impact of truly soluble compounds released into the liquid phase of activated sludge on fouling behavior was investigated.

The first research into the impact of mechanical cleaning via adding granulates showed the unwanted formation of fouling layers was reduced as a result of abrasion processes. With this method continuous sustainable operation was achieved, without chemical cleaning and, at the same time, reaching very high flux levels up to 40 L/(m2·h) over more than 500 days (>16 months).

The investigation of the effect of truly soluble compounds on membrane fouling showed that the permeability decline during 145 days of operation resulted predominantly from wastewater or activated sludge matter larger than 0.04 μm.
Australian and New Zealand Biosolids Partnership: Collaboration for more effective biosolids management
Authors: Speers Andrew , Gale Allen , Penney Nancy
Published: June 2010

This paper describes an international biosolids management initiative, known as the Australian and New Zealand Biosolids Partnership (ANZBP). The ANZBP - known formerly as the Australasian Biosolids Partnership – comprises 33 members dedicated to promoting the sustainable management of biosolids across the two nations. Two critical research projects are described, each of which contributes to the ANZBP goal of promoting the sustainable management of biosolids. The first is a review of community attitudes to biosolids management, the outcomes of which will be used to refine communication tools and methods of community consultation and which will provide input to policy development over time. The second is a review of regulations in place in Australia and New Zealand carried out to identify inconsistencies and improvements that could be made. An outcome of this initiative is potentially the development of a best practice manual. The relationship of the two projects to a sustainability framework adopted by the ANZBP is also described, as is the relationship of the two projects to each other.
Improving Anaerobic Digester Performance: Lessons Learnt from Digester Clean-out Operations
Authors: Ohandja D.-G. , Gove L. , Edwards M. , Callan J. , Voulvoulis N.
Published: June 2010

The increasingly higher costs of fossil fuel are pushing water companies to seek alternative sources of energy such as methane from anaerobic digestion of sludges. Anaerobic digestion can be hindered by several factors including accumulation of grit and rag inside the digester. Periodical clean-out of anaerobic digesters is a common practice in the Water Industry, but very little is known on the nature of the solid material in digester contents. This paper presents the composition of grit removed from a mesophilic anaerobic digester during clean-out operations. Grit and rag accounted for 40% of digester effective capacity but it was impossible to determine the nature of the constituents in the rag due to the large size of debris. However, grit analysis showed that 64% was of inorganic nature while 36 % was organic. It was found that fine grit particles (size between 425 and 1180 μm) represented the largest proportion, accounting for 67% of the total weight of grit. Accumulation of fine grit material could be attributed to inefficient degritting of digester feed, incomplete mixing of the digester content, as well as precipitation of heavy metals inside the digester. Fe3O4 was the main inorganic compound in the grit accounting for 66% of the inorganic fraction of the grit, unsurprisingly as this site uses iron salts for phosphorus removal. These results suggest that optimistaion of chemical dosage in secondary treatment and adequate screening of the digester feed could substantially improve the performance of mesophilic anaerobic digesters.
Benefits from Benchmarking - An Austrian Case Study
Authors: Neunteufel Roman , Perfler Reinhard , Mayr Ernest , Theuretzbacher-Fritz Heimo , Kölbl Jörg
Published: June 2010

The aim is to figure out the benefits of Benchmarking in the water supply sector. A survey was launched among the participants of the Austrian metric benchmarking project to answer specific questions from the perspective of the participating water supply utilities. The result was clearly positive. It shows that the expectations of the utilities were largely met. But also from the consumer's point of view the participation of supply utilities in benchmarking projects is to be seen as a benefit. Last but not least benchmarking is an important issue related to public relations of the entire water supply sector. If utilities are willing to trust in the method of benchmarking and to actively implement measures leading to improvements, benchmarking is creating benefits for all stakeholders.
Predictors of Internal Medicine Resident Satisfaction with Teaching by Attendings
Authors: Guarino Cassandra M , Pham Chung , Quiter Elaine , Escarce Jose J
Published: June 2010

This study identifies factors that predict internal medicine resident satisfaction with the quality of teaching by attendings. A key issue facing educators is whether high-quality instruction can be maintained in an environment in which attending physicians have many competing demands placed on their time. A national survey of clinical third-year internal medicine residents in 125 academically affiliated generally medical training programs was conducted. Univariate analyses describe the characteristics of the sample, and multivariate analyses evaluate the factors associated with resident satisfaction with teaching. The response rate was 64.1% (n=1354). Positive factors relating to satisfaction with teaching on inpatient ward rotations included: number of patients seen during rounds, attendings were fulltime, attending did clinical teaching during bedside work rounds, attending gave spontaneous and prepared presentations, and attendings were reached soon when needed. Negative factors included: number of residents in a ward team, number of patients admitted on overnight call, attendings seemed rushed and eager to finish rounds, and attendings were temporarily called away during rounds. Positive factors relating to satisfaction with teaching in continuity clinics included: residents being female and amount of time spent on talking to or examining patients. Negative factors included: amount of time spent on paperwork or routine work, attending changed residents decisions, attendings were difficult to reach, and attendings were temporarily called away during teaching. Different clinic settings also affected satisfaction. This study identifies several factors associated with internal medicine residents satisfaction with teaching and highlights mutable factors that faculty may consider changing to improve education and satisfaction.