bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Centralized and Decentralized Gatekeeping in an Open Online Collective
Authors: Shaw Aaron
Published: August 2012

This paper presents a study of gatekeeping in the U.S. political blog “Daily Kos.” Open online collectives like Daily Kos use relational mechanisms, such as gatekeeping, to manage organizational boundaries and filter the contributions of participants. However, neither prior theories of gatekeeping nor the existing analyses of open online collectives account for the character or implications of gatekeeping in the Daily Kos community. Using qualitative evidence as well as statistical analysis of a large sample of comment threads on the site from 2008, I argue that gatekeeping on Daily Kos takes centralized and decentralized forms, and that both modes depend critically on relational boundary work among site participants. Centralized gatekeeping proceeds through actions by high-status members of the community. Decentralized gatekeeping, by contrast, consists of more numerous and small-scale interactions between community members, who filter and moderate each other’s participation. Both forms of gatekeeping enhance the ability of site leaders and incumbent community members to regulate access to privileges and agenda-setting responsibilities on the site. These findings imply that the egalitarian ethos of open online collectives exists in tension with the mechanisms through which participation and status inequalities emerge among participants. How collectives engaged in mobilization and discursive production resolve this tension will shape the long-term impact of online participation and blogs on the political and public spheres.
A novel synthesis, characterization and application of an anionic Cr-complexed azo dye based on environmental considerations
Authors: Zarkogianni Maria , Coutouli-Argyropoulou Evdoxia , Samara Constantini , Anthemidis Aristidis , Nikolaidis Nikolaos , Tsatsaroni Eforia
Published: August 2012

A simplified novel one pot method of synthesis of a Cr-complex anionic azo dye and the subsequent minimization of the Cr-content in the final dye by ultrafiltration was carried out. Ultrafiltration allows the production of highly concentrated purified metal-complex dyes with drastically reduced free metal and electrolyte content.

All dyes were characterized by FT-IR, UV-Vis, NMR and their melting points. X-ray fluorescence analysis and atomic absorption measurements were performed for the determination of free and total Cr-content for the synthesized metal-complex dye before and after ultrafiltration.

All of the synthesized dyes (before and after ultrafiltration) were applied for the dyeing of wool and polyamide fibres, and colour measurements and fastness property tests were carried out. The wash and light fastness properties of the dyeings were excellent for the metal-complex dyes, but inferior for the non-metallized dye.
“Great Books” of Public Administration, 1990-2010
Authors: Kasdan David Oliver
Published: August 2012

Twenty years ago, Frank Sherwood attempted to identify the most influential book in public administration from 1940 to 1990. This article makes a modest attempt to recreate that study for the span of 1990 to 2010 with a striking difference in its results. Whereas Sherwood’s panel picked a book that was well liked and respected in the academic community, the current study produced a winning volume that was almost universally derided by the panel of public administration scholars. The study also revealed interesting side stories about the methodology for identifying influence, the state of academic publishing, and the future of books for the field public administration.
World Music Resources
Authors: Beegle Amy C.
Published: August 2012

Access to world music resources such as videos and sound recordings have increased with the advent of YouTube and the efforts of music educators working closely with ethnomusicologists to provide more detailed visual and audio information about various musical practices. This column discusses some world music resources available for music educators, including print, DVD, CD, and Internet sources.
The Myth of Objectivity
Authors: Boyle Karen
Published: August 2012

In this article, the editor of Everyday Pornography offers a response to Ronald Weitzer’s 2011 review of that book, addressing questions about objectivity, the framing of pornography as violence against women, the role of women’s testimony in debates about pornography, and research on porn’s consumers.
Blood pressure and plasma renin activity responses to different strategies to inhibit the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system during exercise
Authors: Williams Bryan , Baschiera Fabio , Lacy Peter S , Botha Jaco , Prescott Margaret F , Brunel Patrick
Published: August 2012

Objective:

The effect of two different strategies for renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) blockade; direct renin inhibition (DRI) versus angiotensin receptor blockade (ARB) on blood pressure (BP) and plasma renin activity (PRA) was compared during exercise.

Methods:

Hypertensive adults were randomised to aliskiren (300 mg once daily, n=33) or valsartan (320 mg once daily, n=35). BP and PRA were measured during treadmill exercise (Bruce protocol), at baseline, end of treatment (eight weeks), and after treatment withdrawal (48 hours after last dose).

Results:

After eight weeks treatment, Aliskiren inhibited PRA (>80%) at rest and during exercise, with inhibition remaining undiminished 48 hours after treatment withdrawal. In contrast, valsartan increased PRA at rest, and more-so during exercise (>400%). Angiotensin receptor blockade, as indicated by PRA increase, was reduced, 48 hours after valsartan treatment withdrawal, suggesting more sustained RAAS blockade with aliskiren. Despite divergent effects on PRA, similar exercise-induced changes in BP were seen. The primary outcome, the rise in systolic BP from rest to peak exercise (baseline to after treatment withdrawal) did not differ between treatments ( p=0.25).

Conclusion:

Measurement of PRA is a more sensitive index of RAAS blockade than the BP response during exercise. Furthermore, after treatment withdrawal, aliskiren provides more sustained RAAS inhibition than valsartan at rest and during exercise.
Naming and War in Modern Germany
Authors: Bruhn Anja , Huschka Denis , Wagner Gert G
Published: July 2012

AbstractThis paper analyzes naming behavior in Germany in the context of rapid social change. It begins with an overview of general developments in naming in Germany over the last one hundred years, based on data from the German Socio-Economic Panel Study (SOEP), which supplies us with almost 45,000 datasets. The paper focuses on the periods of World War II and the Cold War since we conclude that general developments in naming were disrupted by these two phenomena. Wartime brings accelerated social change in its wake and people react to this social change — often on an apparently individual level. Here, our findings are in accordance with established sociological theories.
A Note on Selected Names in James Hynes’s Academic Novel The Lecturer’s Tale
Authors: Nuessel Frank
Published: July 2012

AbstractThis note offers a brief discussion of selected names in the literary sub-genre commonly labeled the ‘academic novel,’ and exemplified in The Lecturer’s Tale by James Hynes. It defines the genre and enumerates its most common features. Because this note constitutes an overview of nomenclature in one specific academic novel, it is exemplary rather than comprehensive.
Mythic and Occultist Naming Strategies in Harry Potter
Authors: Compagnone Vanessa , Danesi Marcel
Published: July 2012

AbstractThis article looks at the names used in the seven bestselling Harry Potter novels by J. K. Rowling. The names reverberate with mythic and occultist meanings that complement the characterizations and that, arguably, even guide the narratives themselves: that is, the events in the stories are determinable in part by the names of the characters, which constitute metaphorical cues to the storylines. The naming patterns in the books, in effect, revive the mythic past for the contemporary world in ingenious ways.
Nicknames in Australian Secondary Schools: Insights into Nicknames and Adolescent Views of Self
Authors: Starks Donna , Leech Kerry-Taylor , Willoughby Louisa
Published: July 2012

AbstractAlthough it is widely known that language practices can significantly affect adolescent self-image, research studies on adolescent naming practices are surprisingly scarce. The only study to date on nicknames in Australia was undertaken by Chevalier (2006). Her study provides a comprehensive analysis of morphological and semantic features of names but makes no reference to adolescent language practices and their role in society. Our exploration of initial responses to questionnaire data administered to secondary students in Victoria and Queensland schools considers: (i) common adolescent nicknaming practices and (ii) attitudes of adolescents to nick-names used for others and towards nicknames. We end with suggestions for raising awareness of naming practices to promote cultural and linguistic sensitivity amongst high school students.
On the Translation of French-Canadian Family Names in English
Authors: Picard Marc
Published: July 2012

AbstractMany French-Canadian family names were altered when their bearers emigrated to various English-speaking areas of North America. As in the case of all the other foreign names that were anglicized for various social and linguistic reasons, different types of adaptive mechanisms were at work. The most common were purely orthographical in nature, ranging from the simple elimination of diacritics to the replacement of unfamiliar vowel and consonant sounds. Other surname modifications went beyond spelling changes and were dependent upon some notion of structural or semantic equivalence. Some were based solely on the fact that a French name sounded vaguely similar to an existing English surname while other non-orthographical substitutions involved translation. The object of this study will be to examine how this process affected French-Canadian surnames wherein this adaptive mechanism was particularly prevalent and diverse.
Effect of MHC and non-MHC donor/recipient genetic disparity on the outcome of allogeneic HCT
Authors: Warren Edus H. , Zhang Xinyi Cindy , Li Shuying , Fan Wenhong , Storer Barry E. , Chien Jason W. , Boeckh Michael J. , Zhao Lue Ping , Martin Paul J. , Hansen John A.
Published: August 2012

The outcome of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation is influenced by donor/recipient genetic disparity at loci both inside and outside the MHC on chromosome 6p. Although disparity at loci within the MHC is the most important risk factor for the development of severe GVHD, disparity at loci outside the MHC that encode minor histocompatibility (H) antigens can elicit GVHD and GVL activity in donor/recipient pairs who are otherwise genetically identical across the MHC. Minor H antigens are created by sequence and structural variations within the genome. The enormous variation that characterizes the human genome suggests that the total number of minor H loci is probably large and ensures that all donor/recipient pairs, despite selection for identity at the MHC, will be mismatched for many minor H antigens. In addition to mismatch at minor H loci, unrelated donor/recipient pairs exhibit genetic disparity at numerous loci within the MHC, particularly HLA-DP, despite selection for identity at HLA-A, -B, -C, and -DRB1. Disparity at HLA-DP exists in 80% of unrelated pairs and clearly influences the outcome of unrelated hematopoietic cell transplantation; the magnitude of this effect probably exceeds that associated with disparity at any locus outside the MHC.
Safety and pharmacokinetics of a novel recombinant fusion protein linking coagulation factor IX with albumin (rIX-FP) in hemophilia B patients
Authors: Santagostino Elena , Negrier Claude , Klamroth Robert , Tiede Andreas , Pabinger-Fasching Ingrid , Voigt Christine , Jacobs Iris , Morfini Massimo
Published: August 2012

A recombinant fusion protein linking coagulation factor IX (FIX) with human albumin (rIX-FP) has been developed to facilitate hemophilia B treatment by less frequent FIX dosing. This first-in-human dose-escalation trial in 25 previously treated subjects with hemophilia B (FIX ≤ 2 IU/dL) examined the safety and pharmacokinetics of 25, 50, and 75 IU/kg rIX-FP. Patients in the 50-IU/kg cohort underwent a comparative pharmacokinetics assessment with their previous FIX product (plasma-derived or recombinant). No allergic reactions or inhibitors were observed. Four mild, possibly treatment-related adverse events were reported. In the 50-IU/kg cohort (13 subjects), the mean half-life of rIX-FP was 92 hours, more than 5 times longer than the subjects' previous FIX product. After 25 or 50 IU/kg rIX-FP administration, the baseline-corrected mean FIX activity remained elevated at day 7 (7.4 IU/dL and 13.4 IU/dL, respectively) and day 14 (2.5 IU/dL and 5.5 IU/dL, respectively). The incremental recovery of rIX-FP was higher than both recombinant and plasma-derived FIX (1.4 vs 0.95 and 1.1 IU/dL per IU/kg, respectively). These results demonstrated both the safety and improved pharmacokinetics of rIX-FP, thus indicating this new product with extended half-life as possibly able to control and prevent bleeding with less frequent injection. The trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as no. NCT01233440.
Defective regulatory B-cell compartment in patients with immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Li Xiaojuan , Zhong Hui , Bao Weili , Boulad Nayla , Evangelista Jessie , Haider Muhammad Anis , Bussel James , Yazdanbakhsh Karina
Published: August 2012

B lymphocytes producing antiplatelet autoantibodies play a major role in autoimmune thrombocytopenia (ITP). However, certain B cells, including the human CD19+CD24hiCD38hi subpopulation, possess regulatory functions mediated partly by IL-10. In a cohort of chronic ITP patients with low platelet counts who consisted of patients off treatment, we found a lower frequency of CD19+CD24hiCD38hi in the peripheral compartment of nonsplenectomized patients (P = .03). IL-10 expression after activation was decreased in all ITP circulating CD19+ subpopulations (P < .03), and inhibition of monocyte TNF-α expression by activated B cells was reduced in patients with platelet numbers of < 50 × 109 cells/L (P = .001), indicating that regulatory B cells of patients with ITP are functionally impaired in their ability to dampen monocyte activation. Interestingly, in nonsplenectomized patients whose platelet counts were elevated after treatment with thrombopoietic agents, the frequency of CD19+CD24hiCD38hi B cells was increased compared with those before treatment (P = .02). Altogether, these data indicate a compromised regulatory B-cell com-partment as an additional defect in immune regulation in patients with chronic ITP that may be restored in responders to thrombopoietic treatment.
STAT3 mutations unify the pathogenesis of chronic lymphoproliferative disorders of NK cells and T-cell large granular lymphocyte leukemia
Authors: Jerez Andres , Clemente Michael J. , Makishima Hideki , Koskela Hanna , LeBlanc Francis , Peng Ng Kwok , Olson Thomas , Przychodzen Bartlomiej , Afable Manuel , Gomez-Segui Ines , Guinta Kathryn , Durkin Lisa , Hsi Eric D. , McGraw Kathy , Zhang Dan , Wlodarski Marcin W. , Porkka Kimmo , Sekeres Mikkael A. , List Alan , Mustjoki Satu , Loughran Thomas P. , Maciejewski Jaroslaw P.
Published: August 2012

Chronic lymphoproliferative disorders of natural killer cells (CLPD-NKs) and T-cell large granular lymphocytic leukemias (T-LGLs) are clonal lymphoproliferations arising from either natural killer cells or cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). We have investigated for distribution and functional significance of mutations in 50 CLPD-NKs and 120 T-LGL patients by direct sequencing, allele-specific PCR, and microarray analysis. STAT3 gene mutations are present in both T and NK diseases: approximately one-third of patients with each type of disorder convey these mutations. Mutations were found in exons 21 and 20, encoding the Src homology 2 domain. Patients with mutations are characterized by symptomatic disease (75%), history of multiple treatments, and a specific pattern of STAT3 activation and gene deregulation, including increased expression of genes activated by STAT3. Many of these features are also found in patients with wild-type STAT3, indicating that other mechanisms of STAT3 activation can be operative in these chronic lymphoproliferative disorders. Treatment with STAT3 inhibitors, both in wild-type and mutant cases, resulted in accelerated apoptosis. STAT3 mutations are frequent in large granular lymphocytes suggesting a similar molecular dysregulation in malignant chronic expansions of NK and CTL origin. STAT3 mutations may distinguish truly malignant lymphoproliferations involving T and NK cells from reactive expansions.
Effectiveness of genomic prediction on milk flow traits in dairy cattle
Authors: Gray Kent A , Cassady Joseph P , Huang Yijian , Maltecca Christian
Published: July 2012

Background

Milkability, primarily evaluated by measurements of milking speed and time, has an economic impact in milk production of dairy cattle. Recently the Italian Brown Swiss Breeders Association has included milking speed in genetic evaluations. The main objective of this study was to investigate the possibility of implementing genomic selection for milk flow traits in the Italian Brown Swiss population and thereby evaluate the potential of genomic selection for novel traits in medium-sized populations. Predicted breeding values and reliabilities based on genomic information were compared with those obtained from traditional breeding values.

Methods

Milk flow measures for total milking time, ascending time, time of plateau, descending time, average milk flow and maximum milk flow were collected on 37 213 Italian Brown Swiss cows. Breeding values for genotyped sires (n = 1351) were obtained from standard BLUP and genome-enhanced breeding value techniques utilizing two-stage and single-step methods. Reliabilities from a validation dataset were estimated and used to compare accuracies obtained from parental averages with genome-enhanced predictions.

Results

Genome-enhanced breeding values evaluated using two-stage methods had similar reliabilities with values ranging from 0.34 to 0.49 for the different traits. Across two-stage methods, the average increase in reliability from parental average was approximately 0.17 for all traits, with the exception of descending time, for which reliability increased to 0.11. Combining genomic and pedigree information in a single-step produced the largest increases in reliability over parent averages: 0.20, 0.24, 0.21, 0.14, 0.20 and 0.21 for total milking time, ascending time, time of plateau, descending time, average milk flow and maximum milk flow, respectively.

Conclusions

Using genomic models increased the accuracy of prediction compared to traditional BLUP methods. Our results show that, among the methods used to predict genome-enhanced breeding values, the single-step method was the most successful at increasing the reliability for most traits. The single-step method takes advantage of all the data available, including phenotypes from non-genotyped animals, and can easily be incorporated into current breeding evaluations.
Evidence for a divergence in function between two glucocorticoid receptors from a basal teleost
Authors: Li Yi , Sturm Armin , Cunningham Phil , Bury Nicolas R
Published: August 2012

Background

Duplicated glucocorticoid receptors (GR) are present in most teleost fish. The evolutionary advantage of retaining two GRs is unclear, as no subtype specific functional traits or physiological roles have been defined. To identify factors driving the retention of duplicate GRs in teleosts, the current study examined GRs in representatives of two basal ray-finned fish taxa that emerged either side of the teleost lineage whole genome duplication event (WGD) event, the acipenseriform, Acipenser ruthenus, (pre-WGD) and the osteoglossimorph, Pantodon buchholzi, (post-WGD).

Results

The study identified a single GR in A. ruthenus (ArGR) and two GRs in P. buchholzi (PbGR1 and PbGR2). Phylogenetic analyses showed that ArGR formed a distinct branch separate from the teleosts GRs. The teleost GR lineage was subdivded into two sublineages, each of which contained one of the two P. buchholzi GRs. ArGR, PbGR1 and PbGR2 all possess the unique 9 amino acid insert between the zinc-fingers of the DNA-binding domain that is present in one of the teleost GR lineages (GR1), but not the other (GR2). A splice variant of PbGR2 produces an isoform that lacked these 9 amino acids (PbGR2b). Cortisol stimulated transactivation activity of ArGR, PbGR2b and PbGR1 in vitro; with PbGR2b and PbGR1, the glucocorticoid 11-deoxycortisol was a more potent agonist than cortisol. The hormone sensitivity of PbGR2b and PbGR1 differed in the transactivation assay, with PbGR2b having lower EC50 values and greater fold induction.

Conclusions

The difference in transactivation activity sensitivity between duplicated GRs of P. buchholzi suggests potential functional differences between the paralogs emerged early in the teleost lineage. Given the pleiotropic nature of GR function in vertebrates, this finding is in accordance with the hypothesis that duplicated GRs were potentially retained through subfunctionalisation followed by gene sharing. A 9 amino acid insert in the DNA-binding domain emerged in basal ray-finned fish GRs. However, the presence of a PbGR2 splice variant that lacks this insert, as well as the loss of the exon encoding these amino acids in the genes encoding for other teleost GR2 suggests the selection of two receptors with different DNA-binding domain structures in teleosts.
Identification of a radiosensitivity signature using integrative metaanalysis of published microarray data for NCI-60 cancer cells
Authors: Kim Han Sang , Kim Sang Cheol , Kim Sun Jeong , Park Chan Hee , Jeung Hei-Cheul , Kim Yong Bae , Ahn Joong Bae , Chung Hyun Cheol , Rha Sun Young
Published: July 2012

Background

In the postgenome era, a prediction of response to treatment could lead to better dose selection for patients in radiotherapy. To identify a radiosensitive gene signature and elucidate related signaling pathways, four different microarray experiments were reanalyzed before radiotherapy.

Results

Radiosensitivity profiling data using clonogenic assay and gene expression profiling data from four published microarray platforms applied to NCI-60 cancer cell panel were used. The survival fraction at 2 Gy (SF2, range from 0 to 1) was calculated as a measure of radiosensitivity and a linear regression model was applied to identify genes or a gene set with a correlation between expression and radiosensitivity (SF2). Radiosensitivity signature genes were identified using significant analysis of microarrays (SAM) and gene set analysis was performed using a global test using linear regression model. Using the radiation-related signaling pathway and identified genes, a genetic network was generated. According to SAM, 31 genes were identified as common to all the microarray platforms and therefore a common radiosensitivity signature. In gene set analysis, functions in the cell cycle, DNA replication, and cell junction, including adherence and gap junctions were related to radiosensitivity. The integrin, VEGF, MAPK, p53, JAK-STAT and Wnt signaling pathways were overrepresented in radiosensitivity. Significant genes includingACTN1,CCND1,HCLS1,ITGB5,PFN2,PTPRC,RAB13, andWAS, which are adhesion-related molecules that were identified by both SAM and gene set analysis, and showed interaction in the genetic network with the integrin signaling pathway.

Conclusions

Integration of four different microarray experiments and gene selection using gene set analysis discovered possible target genes and pathways relevant to radiosensitivity. Our results suggested that the identified genes are candidates for radiosensitivity biomarkers and that integrin signaling via adhesion molecules could be a target for radiosensitization.
Storage conditions of intestinal microbiota matter in metagenomic analysis
Authors: Cardona Silvia , Eck Anat , Cassellas Montserrat , Gallart Milagros , Alastrue Carmen , Dore Joel , Azpiroz Fernando , Roca Joaquim , Guarner Francisco , Manichanh Chaysavanh
Published: July 2012

Background

The structure and function of human gut microbiota is currently inferred from metagenomic and metatranscriptomic analyses. Recovery of intact DNA and RNA is therefore a critical step in these studies. Here, we evaluated how different storage conditions of fecal samples affect the quality of extracted nucleic acids and the stability of their microbial communities.

Results

We assessed the quality of genomic DNA and total RNA by microcapillary electrophoresis and analyzed the bacterial community structure by pyrosequencing the 16S rRNA gene. DNA and RNA started to fragment when samples were kept at room temperature for more than 24 h. The use of RNAse inhibitors diminished RNA degradation but this protection was not consistent among individuals. DNA and RNA degradation also occurred when frozen samples were defrosted for a short period (1 h) before nucleic acid extraction. The same conditions that affected DNA and RNA integrity also altered the relative abundance of most taxa in the bacterial community analysis. In this case, intra-individual variability of microbial diversity was larger than inter-individual one.

Conclusions

Though this preliminary work explored a very limited number of parameters, the results suggest that storage conditions of fecal samples affect the integrity of DNA and RNA and the composition of their microbial community. For optimal preservation, stool samples should be kept at room temperature and brought at the laboratory within 24 h after collection or be stored immediately at −20°C in a home freezer and transported afterwards in a freezer pack to ensure that they do not defrost at any time. Mixing the samples with RNAse inhibitors outside the laboratory is not recommended since proper homogenization of the stool is difficult to monitor.
Pathogenic Mycobacterium bovis strains differ in their ability to modulate the proinflammatory activation phenotype of macrophages
Authors: Andrade Marcelle RM , Amaral Eduardo P , Ribeiro Simone CM , Almeida Fabricio M , Peres Tanara V , Lanes Verônica , D’Império-Lima Maria Regina , Lasunskaia Elena B
Published: August 2012

Background

Tuberculosis, caused byMycobacterium tuberculosisorMycobacterium bovis,remains one of the leading infectious diseases worldwide. The ability of mycobacteria to rapidly grow in host macrophages is a factor contributing to enhanced virulence of the bacteria and disease progression. Bactericidal functions of phagocytes are strictly dependent on activation status of these cells, regulated by the infecting agent and cytokines. Pathogenic mycobacteria can survive the hostile environment of the phagosome through interference with activation of bactericidal responses. To study the mechanisms employed by highly virulent mycobacteria to promote their intracellular survival, we investigated modulating effects of two pathogenicM. bovisisolates and a referenceM. tuberculosisH37Rv strain, differing in their ability to multiply in macrophages, on activation phenotypes of the cells primed with major cytokines regulating proinflammatory macrophage activity.

Results

Bone marrow- derived macrophages obtained from C57BL/6 mice were infected by mycobacteria after a period of cell incubation with or without treatment with IFN-γ, inducing proinflammatory type-1 macrophages (M1), or IL-10, inducing anti-inflammatory type-2 cells (M2). Phenotypic profiling of M1 and M2 was then evaluated. TheM. bovisstrain MP287/03 was able to grow more efficiently in the untreated macrophages, compared with the strains B2 or H37Rv. This strain induced weaker secretion of proinflammatory cytokines, coinciding with higher expression of M2 cell markers, mannose receptor (MR) and arginase-1 (Arg-1). Treatment of macrophages with IFN-γ and infection by the strains B2 and H37Rv synergistically induced M1 polarization, leading to high levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression, and reduced expression of the Arg-1. In contrast, the cells infected with the strain MP287/03 expressed high levels of Arg-1 which competed with iNOS for the common substrate arginine, leading to lower levels of NO production.

Conclusions

The data obtained demonstrated that the strain, characterized by increased growth in macrophages, down- modulated classical macrophage activation, through induction of an atypical mixed M1/M2 phenotype.
Comparison of freezing tolerance, compatible solutes and polyamines in geographically diverse collections of Thellungiella sp. and Arabidopsis thaliana accessions
Authors: Lee Yang Ping , Babakov Alexei , de Boer Bert , Zuther Ellen , Hincha Dirk K
Published: August 2012

Background

Thellungiellahas been proposed as an extremophile alternative toArabidopsisto investigate environmental stress tolerance. However,Arabidopsisaccessions show large natural variation in their freezing tolerance and here the tolerance ranges of collections of accessions in the two species were compared.

Results

Leaf freezing tolerance of 16Thellungiellaaccessions was assessed with an electrolyte leakage assay before and after 14 days of cold acclimation at 4°C. Soluble sugars (glucose, fructose, sucrose, raffinose) and free polyamines (putrescine, spermidine, spermine) were quantified by HPLC, proline photometrically. The ranges in nonacclimated freezing tolerance completely overlapped betweenArabidopsisandThellungiella. After cold acclimation, someThellungiellaaccessions were more freezing tolerant than anyArabidopsisaccessions. Acclimated freezing tolerance was correlated with sucrose levels in both species, but raffinose accumulation was lower inThellungiellaand only correlated with freezing tolerance inArabidopsis. The reverse was true for leaf proline contents. Polyamine levels were generally similar between the species. Only spermine content was higher in nonacclimatedThellungiellaplants, but decreased during acclimation and was negatively correlated with freezing tolerance.

Conclusion

Thellungiellais not an extremophile with regard to freezing tolerance, but some accessions significantly expand the range present inArabidopsis. The metabolite data indicate different metabolic adaptation strategies between the species.
Ganglion cysts of the cruciate ligaments: a series of 31 cases and review of the literature
Authors: Mao Yongtao , Dong Qirong , Wang Yi
Published: August 2012

Background

A case series for ganglion cyst of the cruciate ligament with MRI findings, clinical presentation, and management options along with review of literature is presented.

Methods

Of 8663 consecutive patients referred for knee MR imaging, 31 were diagnosed with ganglion cysts of the cruciate ligaments, including 21 men and 10 women of ages 12 to 73 years (mean: 37). A review of charts revealed that knee pain was the chief complaint in all cases. Arthroscopic debridement of ganglion cyst was performed in 11 patients.

Results

MRI proved to be a valuable tool in diagnosing and deciding management of these cases. All 11 patients who underwent arthroscopic treatment were symptom-free on a minimum follow-of one year.

Conclusion

Cyst formation associated with cruciate ligament of the knee is an infrequent cause of knee pain. MR imaging was important in confirming the cyst lesions and provided useful information prior to arthroscopy. Arthroscopic debridement of ganglion cyst produced excellent outcome without recurrence. This study describes the pertinent MRI and intraoperative findings of ganglion cyst.
Adsorption of β-galactosidase of Alicyclobacillus acidocaldarius on wild type and mutants spores of Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Sirec Teja , Strazzulli Andrea , Isticato Rachele , De Felice Maurilio , Moracci Marco , Ricca Ezio
Published: August 2012

Background

The Bacillus subtilis spore has long been used as a surface display system with potential applications in a variety of fields ranging from mucosal vaccine delivery, bioremediation and biocatalyst development. More recently, a non-recombinant approach of spore display has been proposed and heterologous proteins adsorbed on the spore surface. We used the well-characterized β-galactosidase from the thermoacidophilic bacterium Alicyclobacillus acidocaldarius as a model to study enzyme adsorption, to analyze whether and how spore-adsorption affects the properties of the enzyme and to improve the efficiency of the process.

Results

We report that purified β- galactosidase molecules were adsorbed to purified spores of a wild type strain of B. subtilis retaining ca. 50% of their enzymatic activity. Optimal pH and temperature of the enzyme were not altered by the presence of the spore, that protected the adsorbed β- galactosidase from exposure to acidic pH conditions. A collection of mutant strains of B. subtilis lacking a single or several spore coat proteins was compared to the isogenic parental strain for the adsorption efficiency. Mutants with an altered outermost spore layer (crust) were able to adsorb 60-80% of the enzyme, while mutants with a severely altered or totally lacking outer coat adsorbed 100% of the β- galactosidase molecules present in the adsorption reaction.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that the spore surface structures, the crust and the outer coat layer, have an negative effect on the adhesion of the β- galactosidase. Electrostatic forces, previously suggested as main determinants of spore adsorption, do not seem to play an essential role in the spore-β- galactosidase interaction. The analysis of mutants with altered spore surface has shown that the process of spore adsorption can be improved and has suggested that such improvement has to be based on a better understanding of the spore surface structure. Although the molecular details of spore adsorption have not been fully elucidated, the efficiency of the process and the pH-stability of the adsorbed molecules, together with the well documented robustness and safety of spores of B. subtilis, propose the spore as a novel, non-recombinant system for enzyme display.
Antibacterial activity of plasma from crocodile (Crocodylus siamensis) against pathogenic bacteria
Authors: Kommanee Jintana , Preecharram Sutthidech , Daduang Sakda , Temsiripong Yosapong , Dhiravisit Apisak , Yamada Yuzo , Thammasirirak Sompong
Published: July 2012

Background

The Siamese crocodile (Crocodylus siamensis) is a critically endangered species of freshwater crocodiles. Crocodilians live with opportunistic bacterial infection but normally suffer no adverse effects. They are not totally immune to microbial infection, but their resistance thereto is remarkably effective. In this study, crude and purified plasma extracted from the Siamese crocodile were examined for antibacterial activity against clinically isolated, human pathogenic bacterial strains and the related reference strains.

Methods

Crude plasma was prepared from whole blood of the Siamese crocodile by differential sedimentation. The crude plasma was examined for antibacterial activity by the liquid growth inhibition assay. The scanning electron microscopy was performed to confirm the effect of crude crocodile plasma on the cells of Salmonella typhi ATCC 11778. Effect of crude crocodile plasma on cell viability was tested by MTT assay. In addition, the plasma was purified by anion exchange column chromatography with DEAE-Toyopearl 650 M and the purified plasma was tested for antibacterial activity.

Results

Crude plasma was prepared from whole blood of the Siamese crocodile and exhibited substantial antibacterial activities of more than 40% growth inhibition against the six reference strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhi, Escherichia coli, Vibrio cholerae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus epidermidis, and the four clinical isolates of Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi, and Vibrio cholerae. Especially, more than 80% growth inhibition was found in the reference strains of Salmonella typhi, Vibrio cholerae, and Staphylococcus epidermidis and in the clinical isolates of Salmonella typhi and Vibrio cholerae. The effect of the crude plasma on bacterial cells of Salmonella typhi, a certain antibacterial material probably penetrates progressively into the cytoplasmic space, perturbing and damaging bacterial membranes. The effect of the crude plasma was not toxic by the yellow tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay using a macrophage-like cell, RAW 264.7. The pooled four fractions, designated as fractions D1-D4, were obtained by column chromatography, and only fraction D1 showed growth inhibition in the reference strains and the clinical, human pathogenic isolates.

Conclusions

The crude and purified plasma from the Siamese crocodile significantly showed antibacterial activity against pathogenic bacteria and reference strains by damage cell membrane of target bacterial cells. From the MTT assay, the Siamese crocodile plasma was not cytotoxic to the cells.
First-in-man application of a novel therapeutic cancer vaccine formulation with the capacity to induce multi-functional T cell responses in ovarian, breast and prostate cancer patients
Authors: Berinstein Neil L , Karkada Mohan , Morse Michael A , Nemunaitis John J , Chatta Gurkamal , Kaufman Howard , Odunsi Kunle , Nigam Rita , Sammatur Leeladhar , MacDonald Lisa D , Weir Genevieve M , Stanford Marianne M , Mansour Marc
Published: August 2012

Background

DepoVaxTM is a novel non-emulsion depot-forming vaccine platform with the capacity to significantly enhance the immunogenicity of peptide cancer antigens. Naturally processed HLA-A2 restricted peptides presented by breast, ovarian and prostate cancer cells were used as antigens to create a therapeutic cancer vaccine, DPX-0907.

Methods

A phase I clinical study was designed to examine the safety and immune activating potential of DPX-0907 in advanced stage breast, ovarian and prostate cancer patients. A total of 23 late stage cancer patients were recruited and were divided into two dose/volume cohorts in a three immunization protocol.

Results

DPX-0907 was shown to be safe with injection site reactions being the most commonly reported adverse event. All breast cancer patients (3/3), most of ovarian (5/6) and one third of prostate (3/9) cancer patients exhibited detectable immune responses, resulting in a 61% immunological response rate. Immune responses were generally observed in patients with better disease control after their last prior treatment. Antigen-specific responses were detected in 73% of immune responders (44% of evaluable patients) after the first vaccination. In 83% of immune responders (50% of evaluable patients), peptide-specific T cell responses were detected at ≥2 time points post vaccination with 64% of the responders (39% of evaluable patients) showing evidence of immune persistence. Immune monitoring also demonstrated the generation of antigen-specific T cell memory with the ability to secrete multiple Type 1 cytokines.

Conclusions

The novel DepoVax formulation promotes multifunctional effector memory responses to peptide-based tumor associated antigens. The data supports the capacity of DPX-0907 to elicit Type-1 biased immune responses, warranting further clinical development of the vaccine. This study underscores the importance of applying vaccines in clinical settings in which patients are more likely to be immune competent.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01095848
Influence of the ratio of gate length to drain-to-source distance on the electron mobility in AlGaN/AlN/GaN heterostructure field-effect transistors
Authors: Lv Yuanjie , Lin Zhaojun , Meng Lingguo , Luan Chongbiao , Cao Zhifang , Yu Yingxia , Feng Zhihong , Wang Zhanguo
Published: August 2012

Using measured capacitance-voltage curves with different gate lengths and current–voltage characteristics at low drain-to-source voltage for the AlGaN/AlN/GaN heterostructure field-effect transistors (HFETs) of different drain-to-source distances, we found that the dominant scattering mechanism in AlGaN/AlN/GaN HFETs is determined by the ratio of gate length to drain-to-source distance. For devices with small ratio (here, less than 1/2), polarization Coulomb field scattering dominates electron mobility. However, for devices with large ratio (here, more than 1/2), longitudinal optical (LO) phonon scattering and interface roughness scattering are dominant. The reason is closely related to polarization Coulomb field scattering.
Risk factors of brain metastases in completely resected pathological stage IIIA-N2 non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Ding Xiao , Dai Honghai , Hui Zhouguang , Ji Wei , Liang Jun , Lv Jima , Zhou Zongmei , Yin Weibo , He Jie , Wang Luhua
Published: July 2012

Background

Brain metastases (BM) is one of the most common failures of locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (LA-NSCLC) after combined-modality therapy. The outcome of trials on prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) has prompted us to identify the highest-risk subset most likely to benefit from PCI. Focusing on patients with completely resected pathological stage IIIA-N2 (pIIIA-N2) NSCLC, we aimed to assess risk factors of BM and to define the highest-risk subset.

Methods

Between 2003 and 2005, the records of 217 consecutive patients with pIIIA-N2 NSCLC in our institution were reviewed. The cumulative incidence of BM was estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method, and differences between the groups were analyzed using log-rank test. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was applied to assess risk factors of BM.

Results

Fifty-three (24.4 %) patients developed BM at some point during their clinical course. On multivariate analysis, non-squamous cell cancer (relative risk [RR]: 4.13, 95 % CI: 1.86–9.19; P = 0.001) and the ratio of metastatic to examined nodes or lymph node ratio (LNR) ≥ 30 % (RR: 3.33, 95 % CI: 1.79–6.18; P = 0.000) were found to be associated with an increased risk of BM. In patients with non-squamous cell cancer and LNR ≥ 30 %, the 5-year actuarial risk of BM was 57.3 %.

Conclusions

In NSCLC, patients with completely resected pIIIA-N2 non-squamous cell cancer and LNR ≥ 30 % are at the highest risk for BM, and are most likely to benefit from PCI. Further studies are warranted to investigate the effect of PCI on this subset of patients.
Sex differences in human adipose tissues – the biology of pear shape
Authors: Karastergiou Kalypso , Smith Steven R , Greenberg Andrew S , Fried Susan K
Published: August 2012

Women have more body fat than men, but in contrast to the deleterious metabolic consequences of the central obesity typical of men, the pear-shaped body fat distribution of many women is associated with lower cardiometabolic risk. To understand the mechanisms regulating adiposity and adipose tissue distribution in men and women, significant research attention has focused on comparing adipocyte morphological and metabolic properties, as well as the capacity of preadipocytes derived from different depots for proliferation and differentiation. Available evidence points to possible intrinsic, cell autonomous differences in preadipocytes and adipocytes, as well as modulatory roles for sex steroids, the microenvironment within each adipose tissue, and developmental factors. Gluteal-femoral adipose tissues of women may simply provide a safe lipid reservoir for excess energy, or they may directly regulate systemic metabolism via release of metabolic products or adipokines. We provide a brief overview of the relationship of fat distribution to metabolic health in men and women, and then focus on mechanisms underlying sex differences in adipose tissue biology.
Ontogeny of aerodynamics in Mallard ducks: comparative performance and developmental implications
Authors: Dial Terry R. , Tobalske Bret W. , Heers Ashley M.
Published: August 2012

Wing morphology correlates with flight performance and ecology among adult birds, yet the impact of wing development on aerodynamic capacity is not well understood. Recent work using chukar partridge (Alectoris chukar), a precocial flier, indicates that peak coefficients of lift and drag (CL, CD) and lift-to-drag ratio (CL:CD) increase throughout ontogeny and that these patterns correspond with changes in feather microstructure. To begin to place these results in a comparative context that includes variation in life-history strategy, we used a propeller and force-plate model to study aerodynamic force production across a developmental series of the altricial-flying mallard duck (Anas platyrhynchos). We observed the same trend in mallards as reported for chukar in that coefficients of vertical (CV) and horizontal force (CH) and CV:CH ratio increased with age, and that measures of gross-wing morphology (aspect ratio, camberporosity) in mallards did not account for intraspecific trends in force production. Rather, feather microstructure (feather unfurling, rachis width, feather asymmetry and barbule overlap) all were positively correlated with peak(CV:CH). Throughout ontogeny, mallard primary feathers became stiffer and less transmissive to air at both macroscale (between individual feathers) and microscale (between barbs/barbules/barbicels) levels. Differences between species were manifest primarily as heterochrony of aerodynamic force development. Chukar wings generated measureable aerodynamic forces early (<8 days), and improved gradually throughout a 100-day ontogenetic period. Mallard wings exhibited delayed aerodynamic force production until just prior to fledging (day 60), and showed dramatic improvement within a condensed two-week period. These differences in timing may be related to mechanisms of escape used by juveniles, with mallards swimming to safety and chukar flap-running up slopes to take refuge. Future comparative work should test whether the need for early onset of aerodynamic force production in the chukar, compared with delayed, but rapid, change in the mallard wing, leads to a limited repertoire of flight behavior in adult chukar compared with mallards.
Fast-Track Authority and International Trade Negotiations
Authors: Conconi Paola , Facchini Giovanni , Zanardi Maurizio
Published: August 2012

We develop a simple model of trade relations in which legislators with different stakes in import-competing and export industries decide whether to grant fast-track authority (FTA) to the president, giving up the power to amend international trade agreements. We show that strategic delegation motives are key to understanding FTA votes, which involve a decision between alternative country representatives: the executive or the majority in Congress. We then examine the determinants of all votes by US congressmen on FTA since the introduction of this institutional procedure in 1974. Our empirical analysis provides strong support for the predictions of the model. (JEL D72, F12, F13)
Formation of supramolecular structures in organic solvents
Authors: Kalagaev Ivan Yu. , Grinvald Iosif I.
Published: July 2012

The unusual interactions in organic liquids such as methane derivatives, arenes, and alkanes by the infrared (IR) method were revealed. The transformations of molecular shapes, arising from nonclassical hydrogen and dihydrogen bonds, as well as water factor provide the existence of supramolecular structures in organic fluids. The interpretation of the obtained results in terms of the quantum-chemical calculations has been suggested.