bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consensus Amplification and Novel Multiplex Sequencing Method for S Segment Species Identification of 47 Viruses of the
Orthobunyavirus
,
Phlebovirus
, and
Nairovirus
Genera of the Family
Bunyaviridae
Authors: Lambert Amy J. , Lanciotti Robert S.
Published: June 2009

A reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) assay was designed, according to previously determined and newly derived genetic data, to target S genomic segments of 47 viruses, including 29 arthropod-borne human pathogens, of the family
Bunyaviridae
. The analytical sensitivity of the presented assay was evaluated through its application to RNAs extracted from quantitated dilutions of bunyaviruses of interest. Additionally, the assay's analytical specificity was determined through the evaluation of RNAs extracted from selected bunyaviruses and other representative arthropod-borne viruses isolated from a diverse group of host species and temporal and geographic origins. After RT-PCR amplification, DNAs amplified from bunyaviruses of interest were subjected to a novel multiplex sequencing method to confirm bunyavirus positivity and provide preliminary, species-level S segment identification. It is our goal that this assay will be used as a tool for identification and characterization of emergent arthropod-borne bunyavirus isolates of medical import as well as related viruses of the family
Bunyaviridae
that have not been associated with human illness.
Multiple-Locus Variable-Number Tandem-Repeat Analysis of
Salmonella enterica
Serovar Typhi
Authors: Octavia Sophie , Lan Ruiting
Published: June 2009

Multilocus variable-number tandem repeats (VNTRs) are widely used as molecular markers to differentiate isolates of homogenous pathogenic clones. We explored the genomes of
Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhi strains CT18 and Ty2 for potential VNTRs. Among the 43 potential VNTRs screened, 2 were found to be polymorphic. Together with seven polymorphic VNTRs from previous studies, they were used to type 73 global serovar Typhi isolates. A total of 70 multilocus VNTR analysis (MLVA) profiles were found, distinguishing all except three pairs of isolates into individual profiles. The discriminatory power was 0.999. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the MLVA profiles can be divided into seven clusters. However, except for the closely related isolates, the relationships derived were in conflict with those inferred from single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) typing using 38 SNPs done previously. We concluded that MLVA can resolve the relationships only among closely related isolates. A combination of SNP typing and MLVA typing offers the best approach for local and global epidemiology and the evolutionary analysis of serovar Typhi. We suggest that seven of the nine most polymorphic VNTRs be used as a standardized typing scheme for epidemiological typing.
Reliable Means of Diagnosis and Serovar Determination of Blood-Borne
Salmonella
Strains: Quick PCR Amplification of Unique Genomic Loci by Novel Primer Sets
Authors: Nagarajan Arvindhan Govindasamy , Karnam Guruswamy , Lahiri Amit , Allam Uday Sankar , Chakravortty Dipshikha
Published: June 2009

Typhoid fever is becoming an ever increasing threat in the developing countries. We have improved considerably upon the existing PCR-based diagnosis method by designing primers against a region that is unique to
Salmonella enterica
subsp.
enterica
serovar Typhi and
Salmonella enterica
subsp.
enterica
serovar Paratyphi A, corresponding to the STY0312 gene in
S
. Typhi and its homolog SPA2476 in
S
. Paratyphi A. An additional set of primers amplify another region in
S
. Typhi CT18 and
S
. Typhi Ty2 corresponding to the region between genes STY0313 to STY0316 but which is absent in
S
. Paratyphi A. The possibility of a false-negative result arising due to mutation in hypervariable genes has been reduced by targeting a gene unique to typhoidal
Salmonella
serovars as a diagnostic marker. The amplified region has been tested for genomic stability by amplifying the region from clinical isolates of patients from various geographical locations in India, thereby showing that this region is potentially stable. These set of primers can also differentiate between
S
. Typhi CT18,
S
. Typhi Ty2, and
S
. Paratyphi A, which have stable deletions in this specific locus. The PCR assay designed in this study has a sensitivity of 95% compared to the Widal test which has a sensitivity of only 63%. As observed, in certain cases, the PCR assay was more sensitive than the blood culture test was, as the PCR-based detection could also detect dead bacteria.
Performance of Human Papillomavirus DNA and mRNA Testing Strategies for Women with and without Cervical Neoplasia
Authors: Tropé Ameli , Sjøborg Katrine , Eskild Anne , Cuschieri Kate , Eriksen Tormod , Thoresen Steinar , Steinbakk Martin , Laurak Vigdis , Jonassen Christine M. , Westerhagen Unni , Jacobsen Morten B. , Lie Agnes Kathrine
Published: June 2009

In the present study we investigated the cross-sectional positivity for DNA and E6/E7 mRNA from high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) types in 643 women with high-grade cervical neoplasia (135 cases of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 [CIN2], 495 cases of CIN3/adenocarcinoma in situ [ACIS], and 13 cases of invasive carcinoma) and in 736 women with normal cytology by using the Amplicor and PreTect HPV-Proofer assays. In addition, genotyping was performed using Linear Array for women with normal cytology and a positive HPV test and in all women with histologically confirmed CIN2+. In women with normal cytology, 8.3% (61/736) were Amplicor positive and 3.3% (24/736) were PreTect HPV-Proofer positive (
P
< 0.001). Concordant results between the Amplicor and PreTect HPV-Proofer tests were present in 90.3% (665/736). In women with CIN2+ lesions 96.4% (620/643) were positive by Amplicor, 98.4% (633/643) by linear array, and 64.1% (412/643) by PreTect HPV-Proofer. Concordant results for the three HPV assays were present in 63.8%. The genotype profile detected by linear array and PreTect HPV-Proofer showed substantial agreement for HPV types 16, 18, 33, and 45. HPV type 16 and/or 18 was detected in 58.8% (378/643) of the women with high-grade neoplasia. Detection of E6/E7 mRNA by PreTect HPV-Proofer increased with severity of the cervical lesion. Detection of HPV DNA, however, was not associated with histology grade. In conclusion, the detection of HPV varied according to the assay used, and the concordance between the tests was poor. Our results indicate that mRNA testing may be a biomarker for progression of cervical neoplasia, but the optimal genotype mix remains to be determined.
Rescue of Bacteriophage T7 DNA Polymerase of Low Processivity by Suppressor Mutations Affecting Gene 3 Endonuclease
Authors: Lee Seung-Joo , Chowdhury Kajal , Tabor Stanley , Richardson Charles C.
Published: June 2009

The DNA polymerase encoded by gene 5 (gp5) of bacteriophage T7 has low processivity, dissociating after the incorporation of a few nucleotides. Upon binding to its processivity factor,
Escherichia coli
thioredoxin (Trx), the processivity is increased to approximately 800 nucleotides per binding event. Several interactions between gp5/Trx and DNA are required for processive DNA synthesis. A basic region in T7 DNA polymerase (residues K587, K589, R590, and R591) is located in proximity to the 5′ overhang of the template strand. Replacement of these residues with asparagines results in a threefold reduction of the polymerization activity on primed M13 single-stranded DNA. The altered gp5/Trx exhibits a 10-fold reduction in its ability to support growth of T7 phage lacking gene 5. However, T7 phages that grow at a similar rate provided with either wild-type or altered polymerase emerge. Most of the suppressor phages contain genetic changes in or around the coding region for gene 3, an endonuclease. Altered gene 3 proteins derived from suppressor strains show reduced catalytic activity and are inefficient in complementing growth of T7 phage lacking gene 3. Results from this study reveal that defects in processivity of DNA polymerase can be suppressed by reducing endonuclease activity.
Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells Are a Site of Murine Cytomegalovirus Latency and Reactivation
Authors: Seckert Christof K. , Renzaho Angélique , Tervo Hanna-Mari , Krause Claudia , Deegen Petra , Kühnapfel Birgit , Reddehase Matthias J. , Grzimek Natascha K. A.
Published: June 2009

Latent cytomegalovirus (CMV) is frequently transmitted by organ transplantation, and its reactivation under conditions of immunosuppressive prophylaxis against graft rejection by host-versus-graft disease bears a risk of graft failure due to viral pathogenesis. CMV is the most common cause of infection following liver transplantation. Although hematopoietic cells of the myeloid lineage are a recognized source of latent CMV, the cellular sites of latency in the liver are not comprehensively typed. Here we have used the BALB/c mouse model of murine CMV infection to identify latently infected hepatic cell types. We performed sex-mismatched bone marrow transplantation with male donors and female recipients to generate latently infected sex chromosome chimeras, allowing us to distinguish between Y-chromosome (gene
sry
or
tdy
)-positive donor-derived hematopoietic descendants and Y-chromosome-negative cells of recipients' tissues. The viral genome was found to localize primarily to
sry
-negative CD11b
−
CD11c
−
CD31
+
CD146
+
cells lacking major histocompatibility complex class II antigen (MHC-II) but expressing murine L-SIGN. This cell surface phenotype is typical of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs). Notably,
sry
-positive CD146
+
cells were distinguished by the expression of MHC-II and did not harbor latent viral DNA. In this model, the frequency of latently infected cells was found to be 1 to 2 per 10
4
LSECs, with an average copy number of 9 (range, 4 to 17) viral genomes. Ex vivo-isolated, latently infected LSECs expressed the viral genes
m123/ie1
and
M122/ie3
but not
M11
2
-
M
1
13/e1
,
M55/gB
, or
M86/MCP
. Importantly, in an LSEC transfer model, infectious virus reactivated from recipients' tissue explants with an incidence of one reactivation per 1,000 viral-genome-carrying LSECs. These findings identified LSECs as the main cellular site of murine CMV latency and reactivation in the liver.
Maternal occupational exposure to solvents and congenital malformations: a prospective study in the general population
Authors: Garlantézec R , Monfort C , Rouget F , Cordier S
Published: June 2009

Objective:

To study the relations between maternal occupational exposure to solvents during pregnancy and the risk of congenital malformations.

Methods:

A prospective population-based cohort, specifically designed to study the impact of maternal exposure to solvents on the risk of congenital malformations, began in 2002 in three districts of Brittany (France). 3421 pregnant women were recruited until the end of 2005 by physicians before 19 weeks of gestation and followed through birth. Information on pregnancy outcomes was obtained from the hospital. Occupational exposure to solvents at the beginning of pregnancy was assessed from the women’s self-reported occupational exposures at inclusion and from a job-exposure matrix (JEM). Sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, medical history, diseases during pregnancy were obtained at inclusion and from hospital records. Analyses were restricted to working women (n = 3005). Logistic regressions were used to adjust for potential confounders.

Results:

30.2% of the working women declared regular exposure to at least one product that may contain solvents. 21.3% of them were classified at least in the medium exposure category using the JEM. Occupations mainly classified as exposed by both assessment methods were hairdressers, nurses’ aides, nurses and chemists/biologists. Significant associations were found between major congenital malformations and maternal occupational exposure to solvents, assessed by both self-report odds ratio (OR = 2.48, 95% CI 1.4 to 4.4 for regular exposure vs no exposure) and the JEM (OR = 3.48, 95% CI 1.4 to 8.4 for highest level of exposure vs no exposure). A significant dose–response trend was observed with both assessment methods. Several subgroups of major malformations were associated with maternal exposure to solvents (oral clefts, urinary malformations and male genital malformations).

Conclusion:

This study provides further evidence of an association between exposure to solvents during pregnancy and the risk of major malformations.
NONCOMMUTATIVE QUANTUM MECHANICS AND QUANTUM COSMOLOGY
Authors: BASTOS CATARINA , BERTOLAMI ORFEU , DIAS NUNO COSTA , PRATA JOÃO NUNO
Published: June 2009

We present a phase-space noncommutative version of quantum mechanics and apply this extension to Quantum Cosmology. We motivate this type of noncommutative algebra through the gravitational quantum well (GQW) where the noncommutativity between momenta is shown to be relevant. We also discuss some qualitative features of the GQW such as the Berry phase. In the context of quantum cosmology we consider a Kantowski-Sachs cosmological model and obtain the Wheeler-DeWitt (WDW) equation for the noncommutative system through the ADM formalism and a suitable Seiberg-Witten (SW) map. The WDW equation is explicitly dependent on the noncommutative parameters, θ and η. We obtain numerical solutions of the noncommutative WDW equation for different values of the noncommutative parameters. We conclude that the noncommutativity in the momenta sector leads to a damped wave function implying that this type of noncommmutativity can be relevant for a selection of possible initial states for the universe.
RELATIONAL SPACETIME, MODEL CATEGORIES AND QUANTUM GRAVITY
Authors: CRANE LOUIS
Published: June 2009

We propose a mathematically concrete way of modelling the suggestion that in quantum gravity the spacetime manifold disappears. We replace the underlying point set topological space with several apparently different models, which are actually related by pairs of adjoint functors from rational homotopy theory. One is a discrete approximation to the causal null path space derived from the multiple images in the spacetime theory of gravitational lensing, described as an object in the model category of differential graded Lie algebras. Another of our models appears as a thickening of spacetime, which we interpret as a formulation of relational geometry. This model is produced from the finite dimensional differential graded algebra of differential forms which can be transmitted out of a finite region consistent with the Bekenstein bound by another functor, called geometric realisation. The thickening of spacetime, which we propose as a version of relational spacetime, has a surprizingly rich structure. Information which would make up a spin bundle over spacetime is contained in it, making it possible to include fermionic fields in a geometric state sum over it. Avenues toward constructing an actual quantum theory of gravity on our models are given a preliminary exploration.
CATEGORIFIED NONCOMMUTATIVE MANIFOLDS
Authors: MARTINS R. A. DAWE
Published: June 2009

We construct a noncommutative geometry with generalised 'tangent bundle' from Fell bundle C*-categories (E) beginning by replacing pair groupoid objects (points) with objects in E. This provides a categorification of a certain class of real spectral triples where the Dirac operator D is constructed from morphisms in a category. Applications for physics include quantization via the tangent groupoid and new constraints on D finite (the fermion mass matrix).
EMERGENT GRAVITY AND GAUGE THEORY FROM MATRIX MODELS
Authors: STEINACKER HAROLD
Published: June 2009

Matrix models of Yang-Mills type induce an effective gravity theory on 4-dimensional branes, which are considered as models for dynamical space-time. We review recent progress in the understanding of this emergent gravity. The metric is not fundamental but arises effectively in the semi-classical limit, along with nonabelian gauge fields. This leads to a mechanism which could resolve the cosmological constant problem.
U(2) GAUGE THEORY ON NONCOMMUTATIVE GEOMETRY
Authors: ZET G.
Published: June 2009

We develop a model of gauge theory with U (2) as local symmetry group over a noncommutative space-time. The integral of the action is written considering a gauge field coupled with a Higgs multiplet. The gauge fields are calculated up to the second order in the noncommutativity parameter using the equations of motion and Seiberg-Witten map. The solutions are determined order by order supposing that in zeroth-order they have a general relativistic analog form. The Wu-Yang ansatz for the gauge fields is used to solve the field equations. Some comments on the quantization of the electrical and magnetical charges are also given, with a comparison between commutative and noncommutative cases.
COMPLEX NETWORK-BASED ANALYSIS OF AIR TEMPERATURE DATA IN CHINA
Authors: WANG JIANBO , YANG HUIJIE
Published: June 2009

Air temperature records in 34 cities of China are used to construct an area relation network. A new strategy to construct relation networks is proposed. The areas are clustered into mainly four modules, which may behave differently in disaster occurrences and may be helpful in compilations of accident emergency program of anti-disasters.
FUNCTIONAL ASSESSMENT OF A CAMERA PHONE-BASED WAYFINDING SYSTEM OPERATED BY BLIND AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED USERS
Authors: COUGHLAN JAMES , MANDUCHI ROBERTO
Published: June 2009

We describe a wayfinding system for blind and visually impaired persons that uses a camera phone to determine the user's location with respect to color markers, posted at locations of interest (such as offices), which are automatically detected by the phone. The color marker signs are specially designed to be detected in real time in cluttered environments using computer vision software running on the phone; a novel segmentation algorithm quickly locates the borders of the color marker in each image, which allows the system to calculate how far the marker is from the phone. We present a model of how the user's scanning strategy (i.e. how he/she pans the phone left and right to find color markers) affects the system's ability to detect color markers given the limitations imposed by motion blur, which is always a possibility whenever a camera is in motion. Finally, we describe experiments with our system tested by blind and visually impaired volunteers, demonstrating their ability to reliably use the system to find locations designated by color markers in a variety of indoor and outdoor environments, and elucidating which search strategies were most effective for users.
A WEARABLE DOCUMENT READER FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED: DEWARPING AND SEGMENTATION
Authors: KEEFER ROBERT , KAKUMANU PRAVEEN , BOURBAKIS NIKOLAOS
Published: June 2009

While reading devices for the visually impaired have been available for many years, they are often expensive and difficult to use. The image processing required to enable the reading task is a composition of several important sub-tasks, such as image capture, image stabilization, image enhancement and page-curl dewarping region segmentation, regions grouping, and word recognition In this paper we deal with some of these sub-tasks in an effort to prototype a device (Tyflos-reader) that will read a document for a person with a visual impairment and respond to voice commands for control. Initial experimental results on a set of textbook and newspaper pages are also presented.
EISENSTEIN POLYNOMIALS ASSOCIATED TO BINARY CODES
Authors: OURA MANABU
Published: June 2009

The Eisenstein polynomial is the weighted sum of the weight enumerators of all classes of Type II codes of fixed length. In this note, we investigate the ring generated by Eisenstein polynomials in genus 2.
ELLIPTIC CURVES RELATED TO CYCLIC CUBIC EXTENSIONS
Authors: KOZUMA RINTARO
Published: June 2009

The aim of this paper is to study certain family of elliptic curves [Formula: see text] defined over a number field F arising from hyperplane sections of some cubic surface [Formula: see text] associated to a cyclic cubic extension K/F. We show that each [Formula: see text] admits a 3-isogeny ϕ over F and the dual Selmer group [Formula: see text] is bounded by a kind of unit/class groups attached to K/F. This is proven via certain rational function on the elliptic curve [Formula: see text] with nice property. We also prove that the Shafarevich–Tate group [Formula: see text] coincides with a class group of K as a special case.
THE MARKOV SPECTRA FOR COCOMPACT FUCHSIAN GROUPS
Authors: VULAKH L. YA.
Published: June 2009

Applying the Klein model D2 of the hyperbolic plane and identifying the geodesics in D2 with their poles in the projective plane, the author has developed a method for finding the discrete part of the Markov spectrum for Fuchsian groups. It is applicable mostly to non-cocompact groups. In the present paper, this method is extended to cocompact Fuchsian groups. For a group with signature (0;2,2,2,3), the complete description of the discrete part of the Markov spectrum is obtained. The result obtained leads to the complete description of the Markov and Lagrange spectra for the imaginary quadratic field with discriminant -20.
Polarized epithelial cells secrete matriptase as a consequence of zymogen activation and HAI-1-mediated inhibition
Authors: Wang Jehng-Kang , Lee Ming-Shyue , Tseng I-Chu , Chou Feng-Pai , Chen Ya-Wen , Fulton Amy , Lee Herng-Sheng , Chen Cheng-Jueng , Johnson Michael D. , Lin Chen-Yong
Published: June 2009

Matriptase, a transmembrane serine protease, is broadly expressed by, and crucial for the integrity of, the epithelium. Matriptase is synthesized as a zymogen and undergoes autoactivation to become an active protease that is immediately inhibited by, and forms complexes with, hepatocyte growth factor activator inhibitor (HAI-1). To investigate where matriptase is activated and how it is secreted in vivo, we determined the expression and activation status of matriptase in seminal fluid and urine and the distribution and subcellular localization of the protease in the prostate and kidney. The in vivo studies revealed that while the latent matriptase is localized at the basolateral surface of the ductal epithelial cells of both organs, only matriptase-HAI-1 complexes and not latent matriptase are detected in the body fluids, suggesting that activation, inhibition, and transcytosis of matriptase would have to occur for the secretion of matriptase. These complicated processes involved in the in vivo secretion were also observed in polarized Caco-2 intestinal epithelial cells. The cells target latent matriptase to the basolateral plasma membrane where activation, inhibition, and secretion of matriptase appear to take place. However, a proportion of matriptase-HAI-1 complexes, but not the latent matriptase, appears to undergo transcytosis to the apical plasma membrane for secretion. When epithelial cells lose their polarity, they secrete both latent and activated matriptase. Although most epithelial cells retain very low levels of matriptase-HAI-1 complex by rapidly secreting the complex, gastric chief cells may activate matriptase and store matriptase-HAI-1 complexes in the pepsinogen-secretory granules, suggesting an intracellular activation and regulated secretion in these cells. Taken together, while zymogen activation and closely coupled HAI-1-mediated inhibition are common features for matriptase regulation, the cellular location of matriptase activation and inhibition, and the secretory route for matriptase-HAI-1 complex may vary along with the functional divergence of different epithelial cells.
Involvement of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase in cAMP- and cGMP-induced duodenal epithelial CFTR activation in mice
Authors: Tuo Biguang , Wen Guorong , Zhang Yalin , Liu Xuemei , Wang Xue , Liu Xiaoqiang , Dong Hui
Published: June 2009

Although phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) is essential for several cellular signal transductions, its role in the regulation of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) activity in intestinal epithelial cells is poorly understood. Therefore, the possible involvement of PI3K in the regulation of cAMP- and cGMP-induced duodenal epithelial CFTR activation was investigated in the present study. Forskolin and 8-bromoguanosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate (8-Br-cGMP) markedly stimulated duodenal mucosal HCO3− secretion and short-circuit current ( Isc) in CFTR wild-type mice, which was significantly inhibited by CFTRinh-172, a highly potent and specific CFTR inhibitor. Forskolin and 8-Br-cGMP failed to stimulate duodenal HCO3− secretion and Isc in CFTR knockout mice. Moreover, forskolin- and 8-Br-cGMP-stimulated duodenal HCO3− secretion and Isc were significantly reduced by wortmannin and LY294002, two selective PI3K inhibitors that are structurally and mechanistically different. Forskolin and 8-Br-cGMP induced CFTR phosphorylation and shifted CFTR proteins to the plasma membrane of duodenal epithelial cells, which were inhibited by wortmannin and LY294002. Forskolin and 8-Br-cGMP not only increased the activity of PI3K but also induced the phosphorylation of Akt, a signaling molecule downstream of PI3K, which were again inhibited by wortmannin and LY294002. Together, our results obtained from functional, biochemical, and morphological studies demonstrate that PI3K pathway plays an important role in the regulation of cAMP- and cGMP-induced duodenal epithelial CFTR channel activity and intracellular trafficking.
Effects of prior heavy exercise on heterogeneity of muscle deoxygenation kinetics during subsequent heavy exercise
Authors: Saitoh Tadashi , Ferreira Leonardo F. , Barstow Thomas J. , Poole David C. , Ooue Anna , Kondo Narihiko , Koga Shunsaku
Published: June 2009

We investigated the effects of prior heavy exercise on the spatial heterogeneity of muscle deoxygenation kinetics and the relationship to the pulmonary O2 uptake (pV̇o2) kinetics during subsequent heavy exercise. Seven healthy men completed two 6-min bouts of heavy work rate cycling exercise, separated by 6 min of unloaded exercise. The changes in the concentration of deoxyhemoglobin/myoglobin (Δdeoxy-[Hb+Mb]) were assessed simultaneously at 10 different sites on the rectus femoris muscle using multichannel near-infrared spectroscopy. Prior exercise had no effect on either the time constant or the amplitude of the primary component pV̇o2, whereas it reduced the amplitude of the slow component (SC). ΔDeoxy-[Hb+Mb] across all 10 sites for bout 2 displayed a shorter time delay (mean and SD for subjects: 13.5 ± 1.3 vs. 9.3 ± 1.4 s; P < 0.01) and slower primary component time constant (τ: 9.3 ± 1.3 vs. 17.8 ± 1.0 s; P < 0.01) compared with bout 1. Prior exercise significantly reduced both the intersite coefficient of variation (CV) of the τ of Δdeoxy-[Hb+Mb] (26.6 ± 11.8 vs. 13.7 ± 5.6%; P < 0.01) and the point-by-point heterogeneity [root mean square error (RMSE)] during the primary component in the second bout. However, neither the change in the CV for τ nor RMSE of Δdeoxy-[Hb+Mb] correlated with the reduction in the SC in pV̇o2 kinetics during subsequent heavy exercise. In conclusion, prior exercise reduced the spatial heterogeneity of the primary component of muscle deoxygenation kinetics. This effect was not correlated with alterations in the pV̇o2 response during subsequent heavy exercise.
Role of FTY720 on M1 and M2 macrophages, lymphocytes, and chemokines in \batchmode \documentclass[fleqn,10pt,legalpaper]{article} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amsmath} \pagestyle{empty} \begin{document} \({5}/{6}\) \end{document} nephrectomized rats
Authors: Schaier Matthias , Vorwalder Stefanie , Sommerer Claudia , Dikow Ralf , Hug Friederike , Gross Marie-Luise , Waldherr Rüdiger , Zeier Martin
Published: June 2009

Renal injury is accompanied by the presence of infiltrating inflammatory cells in the glomerulus and tubulointerstitium. FTY720 modifies lymphocyte migration into injured tissues by lymphocyte sequestration to secondary lymphoid organs. The purpose of this study was to examine the potential of FTY720 to influence the inflammatory response in a nonimmunological model of renal failure. Sham-operated and [Formula: see text] nephrectomized (SNX) Sprague-Dawley rats received two different doses of FTY720 or vehicle orally for 14 wk. Treatment with FTY720 reduced glomerular and tubulointerstitial damage in SNX rats but failed to stabilize creatinine clearance. The increase in gene expression of chemokine receptors CCR1, CCR2, and CCR5 in kidneys of vehicle-treated SNX rats was significantly attenuated by high-dose FTY720. Treatment with high-dose FTY720 tended to normalize RANTES and MCP-1 renal gene expression. FTY720 affected not only glomerular and tubulointerstitial lymphocytes, but M1 and M2 phenotype macrophages were also reduced. FTY720 significantly reduced key mediators of renal inflammation and fibrosis. FTY720 also decreased immunoregulation of M2 macrophages, which are beneficial for tissue remodeling and repair.
ADAM17 upregulation in human renal disease: a role in modulating TGF-α availability?
Authors: Melenhorst W. B. , Visser L. , Timmer A. , van den Heuvel M. C. , Stegeman C. A. , van Goor H.
Published: June 2009

A disintegrin and metalloproteinase (ADAM)17 sheds growth factors from the cell membrane, including epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) ligand transforming growth factor (TGF)-α. In mice, angiotensin II infusion induces renal fibrosis via ADAM17-mediated TGF-α shedding and subsequent EGFR activation. Pharmacological ADAM17 inhibition reduced renal fibrotic lesions and improved renal function, positioning ADAM17 as a promising target of intervention in renal disease. We studied ADAM17 expression in the human kidney. ADAM17 mRNA was constitutively expressed in normal adult kidneys, with highest expression in distal tubules. In human renal disease, ADAM17 was de novo expressed in proximal tubules, peritubular capillaries, and glomerular mesangium and upregulated in podocytes. Glomerular mesangial and endothelial ADAM17 were associated with mesangial matrix expansion, focal glomerulosclerosis, and glomerular macrophage infiltration ( P < 0.01). Peritubular capillary and proximal tubular ADAM17 were associated with interstitial fibrosis and interstitial macrophage infiltration ( P < 0.05). Both glomerular and interstitial ADAM17 were associated with decreased renal function ( P < 0.05). In renal fibrosis, ADAM17 colocalized with TGF-α. Moreover, in cultured human podocytes and proximal tubular cells, pharmacological ADAM17 inhibition reduced constitutive TGF-α shedding by 78% ( P < 0.005) and 100% ( P < 0.05), respectively, and phorbol ester-induced TGF-α shedding by 84% ( P < 0.005) and 92% ( P = 0.005), respectively. Finally, ADAM17 inhibition reduced cellular proliferation. In conclusion, the ADAM17 expression pattern and its role in shedding TGF-α from cultured human kidney cells suggest a role in the development of fibrosis. Since EGFR signaling is implicated in renal fibrosis, targeting ADAM17 to reduce availability of EGFR ligand TGF-α may represent a promising way of intervention in human renal disease.
Interleukin-8 is essential for normal urothelial cell survival
Authors: Tseng-Rogenski Stephanie , Liebert Monica
Published: June 2009

Interleukin-8 (IL-8; CXCL8) has been shown to play a role in multiple cellular processes. Here, we report an additional role of IL-8 as a growth and essential survival factor for normal human urothelial cells. Supplementing exogenous recombinant human IL-8 to normal urothelial cells promoted cell growth through the Akt pathway. Inhibition of IL-8 expression by small inhibitory RNA (siRNA) caused normal urothelial cells to die. Addition of recombinant human IL-8 rescued the normal urothelial cells treated with IL-8 siRNA. This rescue effect could be blocked by antibodies to the IL-8 receptor CXCR1 but not by CXCR2, suggesting that normal urothelial cells normally have IL-8 autocrine or paracrine activity for survival and growth mediated by CXCR1. IL-8 mRNA levels were lower in samples from patients with interstitial cystitis, a urinary bladder disorder associated with urothelial cell dysfunction and/or loss. Taken together, these results suggest that IL-8 is an important normal urothelial growth factor and is necessary for normal urothelial cell survival in vitro and in vivo. Lower IL-8 expression levels in the urinary bladder may contribute to pathophysiology of interstitial cystitis.
Physics Features of TRU‐Fueled VHTRs
Authors: Lewis Tom G. , Tsvetkov Pavel V.
Published: June 2009

The current waste management strategy for spent nuclear fuel (SNF) mandated by the US Congress is the disposal of high‐level waste (HLW) in a geological repository at Yucca Mountain. Ongoing efforts on closed‐fuel cycle options and difficulties in opening and safeguarding such a repository have led to investigations of alternative waste management strategies. One potential strategy for the US fuel cycle would be to make use of fuel loadings containing high concentrations of transuranic (TRU) nuclides in the next‐generation reactors. The use of such fuels would not only increase fuel supply but could also potentially facilitate prolonged operation modes (via fertile additives) on a single fuel loading. The idea is to approach autonomous operation on a single fuel loading that would allow marketing power units as nuclear batteries for worldwide deployment. Studies have already shown that high‐temperature gas‐cooled reactors (HTGRs) and their Generation IV (GEN IV) extensions, very‐high‐temperature reactors (VHTRs), have encouraging performance characteristics. This paper is focused on possible physics features of TRU‐fueled VHTRs. One of the objectives of a 3‐year U.S. DOE NERI project was to show that TRU‐fueled VHTRs have the possibility of prolonged operation on a single fuel loading. A 3D temperature distribution was developed based on conceivable operation conditions of the 600 MWth VHTR design. Results of extensive criticality and depletion calculations with varying fuel loadings showed that VHTRs are capable for autonomous operation and HLW waste reduction when loaded with TRU fuel.
A New Iterative Method for Common Fixed Points of a Finite Family of Nonexpansive Mappings
Authors: Imnang Suwicha , Suantai Suthep
Published: June 2009

Let X be a real uniformly convex Banach space and C a closed convex nonempty subset of X. Let be a finite family of nonexpansive self‐mappings of C. For a given x1 ∈ C, let {xn} and , i = 1, 2, …, r, be sequences defined
, where for all j ∈ {1, 2, …, r}, n ∈ ℕ and i = 1, 2, …, j. In this paper, weak and strong convergence theorems of the sequence {xn} to a common fixed point of a finite family of nonexpansive mappings Ti  (i = 1, 2, …, r) are established under some certain control conditions.
Isolation and Structural Analysis In Vivo of Newly Synthesized Fructooligosaccharides in Onion Bulbs Tissues (Allium cepa L.) during Storage
Authors: Fujishima Masaki , Furuyama Kensuke , Ishihiro Yojiro , Onodera Shuichi , Fukushi Eri , Benkeblia Noureddine , Shiomi Norio
Published: June 2009

Fructooligosaccharides are involved in physiological activities and quality attributes of onion bulbs. This work describes structures of newly synthesized oligosaccharides formed by fructose moieties in onion bulb tissues during storage. Onion bulbs were stored for four weeks at 10. HPAEC-PAD analysis showed that saccharide 1 was eluted after 1-kestose while saccharide 2 was eluted after nystose . Saccharides 1 and 2 have R-sucrose values of 1.55 and 2.15 by HPAEC, a reducing terminal, a reducing sugar-to-fructose ratio of 0.5 and 0.3, and a degree of polymerization of 2 and 3 by TOF-MS, respectively. GLC analysis of the methyl derivatives and NMR measurement of the saccharides confirmed the presence of two different structures: the structure of saccharide 1 is composed by two fructose moieties and linked by linkage and was identified as inulobiose [-D-fructofuranosyl---D-fructopyranose]. The structure of saccharide 2 consists of three units of fructose linked by linkage and was identified as inulotriose [-D-fructofuranosyl---D-fructofuranosyl---D-fructopyranose]. The spectra also showed that 70 to 80% of the terminal fructose residue of the two saccharides is of pyranosyl form, while 20 to 30% is of furanosyl form. This finding demonstrated that these newly produced saccharides, catalyzed by onion-purified 6G-FFT, were synthesized by the action of 1-FFT fructosyltransfer from 1-kestose to free fructopyranose yielding inulobiose and sucrose, while elongation of fructofuranosyl units occurs at this transferred fructofuranosyl residue to produce inulooligosaccharide having an additional unit of fructofuranose.
Common Fixed Point Theorems in Menger Probabilistic Quasimetric Spaces
Authors: Sedghi Shaban , Žikić-Došenović Tatjana , Shobe Nabi
Published: June 2009

We consider complete Menger probabilistic quasimetric space and prove common fixed point theorems for weakly compatible maps in this space.
Cumulative Gains Model Quality Metric
Authors: Brandenburger Thomas , Furth Alfred
Published: June 2009

This paper proposes a more comprehensive look at the ideas of KS and Area Under the Curve (AUC) of a cumulative
gains chart to develop a model quality statistic which can be used agnostically to evaluate the quality of a wide range of
models in a standardized fashion. It can be either used holistically on the entire range of the model or at a given decision
threshold of the model. Further it can be extended into the model learning process.
On the Generalized Hyers‐Ulam‐Rassias Stability of Quadratic Functional Equations
Authors: Gordji M. Eshaghi , Khodaei H.
Published: June 2009

We achieve the general solution and the generalized Hyers‐Ulam‐Rassias and Ulam‐Gavruta‐Rassias stabilities for quadratic functional equations f(ax + by) + f(ax − by) = (b(a + b)/2)f(x + y) + (b(a + b)/2)f(x − y) + (2a2 − ab − b2)f(x) + (b2 − ab)f(y) where a, b are nonzero fixed integers with b ≠ ±a, −3a, and f(ax + by) + f(ax − by) = 2a2f(x) + 2b2f(y) for fixed integers a, b with a, b ≠ 0 and a ± b ≠ 0.
Telestroke: Scientific Results
Authors: Audebert Heinrich J. , Schwamm Lee
Published: June 2009

Telestroke is the application of telemedicine in stroke care. Hence, teleconsultation means the performance of consultation by a remotely located expert through the use of high-quality videoconferencing. Remote evaluation of stroke patients via telemedicine is increasingly utilized, particularly in neurologically underserved areas. It is usually based on video examination and evaluations of brain scans via teleradiology. Scientific analyses have demonstrated the reliability of neurological assessments via videoconference. Teleradiology using electronically transmitted original imaging data is potentially equivalent to onsite assessment. Telemedicine consultation including video examination and teleradiology improves accuracy of acute stroke treatment decisions compared to telephone-based consultation. Telemedicine is already frequently used to extend the benefits of intravenous thrombolysis to patients in nonspecialized hospitals. Beyond thrombolysis, telemedicine can be used for immediate decision making in acute stroke, e.g. for triage of patients who might benefit from interventional treatments not available at the referring hospital. However, improved clinical outcomes of stroke patients have only been investigated and shown when telemedicine was combined with the Stroke Unit concept based on specialized stroke wards and organized stroke care. More scientific evaluation is needed in the fields of cost effectiveness, quality management and implementation of further technological innovations. There are still insufficient data about the use of telemedicine in stroke prevention, rehabilitation and post-stroke care.
Adolescent Changes in the Homeostatic and Circadian Regulation of Sleep
Authors: Hagenauer M.H. , Perryman J.I. , Lee T.M. , Carskadon M.A.
Published: June 2009

Sleep deprivation among adolescents is epidemic. We argue that this sleep deprivation is due in part to pubertal changes in the homeostatic and circadian regulation of sleep. These changes promote a delayed sleep phase that is exacerbated by evening light exposure and incompatible with aspects of modern society, notably early school start times. In this review of human and animal literature, we demonstrate that delayed sleep phase during puberty is likely a common phenomenon in mammals, not specific to human adolescents, and we provide insight into the mechanisms underlying this phenomenon.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma – Epidemiological Trends and Risk Factors
Authors: Schütte Kerstin , Bornschein Jan , Malfertheiner Peter
Published: June 2009

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide with about 600,000 patients dying from the disease annually. In 70–90%, HCC develops on the background of chronic liver cirrhosis or inflammation. Risk factors and etiologies vary among geographical regions. In regions with a high incidence the majority of cases are related to HBV and HCV hepatitis. In developed countries, in addition to virus-related HCC, high consumption of alcohol as well as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease often in the context of metabolic syndromes are the prevalent causes. Improvement in clinical management of patients with liver cirrhosis and the control of related complications are the key for the rising incidence of HCC. This review gives an overview on epidemiological trends and risk factors and their mechanisms involved in the hepatocarcinogenesis. Knowledge of these factors will help to improve current concepts for prevention, screening and treatment of this disease.
Hepatocellular Cancer: Optimal Strategies for Screening and Surveillance
Authors: Cabibbo Giuseppe , Craxì Antonio
Published: June 2009

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a challenging malignancy of global importance and is associated with a high rate of mortality. Individuals with chronic viral hepatitis and other forms of liver disease are at risk for developing HCC. The stage of cancer dictates the therapeutic choice, making early detection a primary objective. Many observational studies have reported that HCC is diagnosed at an earlier stage in patients who received surveillance. The guidelines of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases suggest that surveillance should be performed using ultrasonography at an interval of every 6–12 months. This interval is based upon mainly observational data and the expected growth rates of HCC. Patients with abnormal screening tests require additional investigation using computed tomography scanning, magnetic resonance imaging, or liver biopsy. Although the optimal methods of screening and the cost-effectiveness of surveillance for HCC remain to be established, systematic screening still offers the best hope for early diagnosis, treatment eligibility, and improved survival.
Local Ablative Therapies in HCC: Percutaneous Ethanol Injection and Radiofrequency Ablation
Authors: Mahnken Andreas H. , Bruners Philipp , Günther Rolf W.
Published: June 2009

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary hepatic malignancy. Surgery and transarterial chemoembolization have for many years dominated the local treatment of HCC. The introduction of image-guided percutaneous techniques for local tumor ablation changed the treatment of liver cancer. Percutaneous ethanol injection (PEI) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) have both successfully been employed in the treatment of HCC. In current guidelines both techniques are recommended as standard therapy in limited liver cancer. From the current literature both techniques have to be considered safe and effective in the treatment of HCC. Several randomized trials showed RFA to be superior to PEI for treating small HCC. Moreover, several studies analyzed survival after PEI or RFA in comparison with surgery, proving interventional therapy to be a serious competitor of resection. With introduction of combined interventional therapies including transarterial chemoembolization, PEI and RFA survival was improved further. In this article, we provide an insight into the technical basics of PEI and RFA and review the clinical results and indications of these interventional techniques in the treatment of HCC.
Transcatheter Chemoembolization of Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Current Knowledge and Future Directions
Authors: Maleux Geert , van Malenstein Hannah , Vandecaveye Vincent , Heye Sam , Vaninbroukx Johan , Nevens Frederik , Verslype Chris
Published: June 2009

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is considered the gold standard for the treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with a preserved liver function and in the absence of clear extrahepatic tumor spread. This review article deals with the radiological and clinical workup, the interventional technique of chemoembolization for HCC and gives an overview of the common as well as some rare and dramatic complications of TACE. Finally, some new trends and advances in clinical research with regard to the interventional management of HCC are discussed.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Liver Cirrhosis: Assessment of the Liver Function after Yttrium-90 Radioembolization with Resin Microspheres or after CT-Guided High-Dose-Rate Brachytherapy
Authors: Rühl Ricarda , Seidensticker Max , Peters Nils , Mohnike Konrad , Bornschein Jan , Schütte Kerstin , Amthauer Holger , Malfertheiner Peter , Pech Maciej , Ricke Jens
Published: June 2009

Purpose: To identify changes of liver function after single-fraction irradiation or yttrium-90 radioembolization (90Y-RE) of hepatocellular carcinoma associated with liver cirrhosis on the basis of laboratory data. Methods and Materials: 24 patients with primary liver carcinoma and liver cirrhosis classified Child-Pugh A or B were treated either by image-guided high-dose-rate brachytherapy (HDR-BT) (12 patients) or by 90Y-RE (12 patients). The following laboratory parameters were assessed 1 day before and 3 days, 6 weeks and 3 months after the intervention: total bilirubin and γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGTP) as parameters of detoxification function, albumin and cholinesterase (ChE) as direct synthesis parameters, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (AP) as indicators of liver tissue damage. Preinterventional values were taken as baseline, following values were calculated as percentage changes from the baseline value. Statistical analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon-matched pairs test, comparing postinterventional with preinterventional values. Differences were considered statistically significant with a p value <0.05. Results: In all patients the median bilirubin, ALT, AP and albumin values remained within normal limits at any time of follow-up. AST levels in the RE group and GGTP in both groups have been already elevated over a normal range before the intervention, and in both groups both parameters showed a slight increase after interventions. ChE activity was lowered already in the baseline values and showed a further decrease 3 days after BT as well as 3 days and 6 weeks after RE, with final reconstitution to baseline values. All liver function test parameters showed mild changes shortly after radiation therapy but floating laboratory values recovering within 12 weeks to baseline values. Radiation or RE-induced liver disease was recorded in no patient. Conclusions: Liver function parameters show only mild changes shortly after intervention with recovery within 6–12 weeks to baseline values.