bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein is Not Independently Associated with Peripheral Subclinical Atherosclerosis
Authors: Bo Mario , Corsinovi Laura , Brescianini Alessia , Sona Alessandro , Astengo Marco , Dumitrache Raluca , Maria Federica Ferrio , Pricop Larisa , Fonte Gianfranco
Published: October 2008

Objective

This study investigated whether high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels are independently associated with subclinical peripheral atherosclerosis.

Methods.

Clinical variables, cardiovascular (CV) risk factors, 10-year CV risk, the antebrachial Index (ABI), and the carotid intima—media thickness (cIMT) were determined in a sample of consecutive subjects free from previous CV disease, admitted for a first visit at a lipid clinic.

Results.

In the overall sample (320 subjects, mean age 63 years, 35.8% men), hs-CRP levels were associated with major CV risk factors, 10-year CV risk, lower ABI, and higher cIMT values. In a logistic model, after adjustment for significant covariates, the associations of hs-CRP levels with ABI and cIMT were no longer statistically significant.

Conclusions.

Among asymptomatic, moderate- to-high CV risk subjects, hs-CRP levels were associated with severity of peripheral atherosclerosis, but these associations were not independent of traditional CV risk factors, suggesting a limited predictive role of hs-CRP for subclinical atherosclerosis.
Effect of Cardiovascular Drugs on Adenosine Deaminase Activity
Authors: Kowalczyk Edward , Kopff Maria , Kowalski Jan , Kopff Anna , Mikhailidis Dimitri P. , Barylski Marcin , Banach Maciej
Published: October 2008

Objective: Adenosine deaminase catalyzes the conversion of adenosine and deoxyadenosine to inosine and deoxyinosine, respectively. Because raising adenosine concentration can affect several physiological processes we studied the effect of a selection of cardiological drugs on adenosine deaminase activity in red blood cells and rabbit plasma after 21 days administration. Methods and Results: We determined the activity of adenosine deaminase isoenzymes (ADA1 and ADA2). Simvastatin, aspirin, metoprolol, and isosorbide mononitrate significantly decreased plasma total adenosine activity (by 50%, 34%, 29%, and 19%, respectively; P < .05 to P < .001) mainly by decreasing the activity of ADA2. Conclusions: As a consequence of decreased ADA2 activity , the half-life of adenosine will be lengthened. This may, at least in part, explain some of the beneficial effects of analyzed drugs. Our results might be clinically relevant in patients with coronary artery disease, acute coronary syndromes, heart failure, or stroke where the investigated drugs are commonly used. However, our results should be confirmed in large studies in humans.
Sexual Harassment Victimization During Emerging Adulthood
Authors: Clodfelter Tammatha A. , Turner Michael G. , Hartman Jennifer L. , Kuhns Joseph B.
Published: October 2008

Sexual harassment of college students may lead to more serious forms of sexual assault. Few studies have investigated sexual harassment predictors framed within competing theoretical perspectives. In this study, the literature is extended by examining (a) three types of sexual harassment on a college campus, (b) the nature of reporting, and (c) whether routine activities and self-control theories effectively explain sexual harassment. Findings indicate that one fourth of the participants in the sample were sexually harassed, assaulted students are extremely unlikely to officially report incidents, and measures of routine activities theory are important predictors of sexual harassment. Prevention and education policies should focus on increased reporting to university authorities and helping students understand the situational contexts in which these behaviors are likely to occur.
Extruded Starch/PVA Composites: Water Resistance, Thermal Properties, and Morphology
Authors: Zou Guo-Xiang , Jin Ping-Qu , Xin Liang-Zou
Published: October 2008

Poor processability and strong hydrophilicity are the main disadvantages of starch/PVA (SP) composites. Thermoplastic SP composites are prepared by a single-screw extruder in this study. The influence of the formulation on the hydrophilicity of SP composites is studied by an orthogonal array and the analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results of ANOVA show that the water absorption (WA) of the SP composites with increasing amount of starch, but glycerol and citric acid (CA) are useful in decreasing the WA of the SP composites. Some interactions between the factors occur, the most important one being the interaction between WCA and WB. When the content of PVA is <30%, it shows good compatibility with starch, but the starch granules coalesce significantly according to the thermal analysis and SEM analysis. Increasing the amount of CA and borax can improve the mechanical properties of SP composites and decrease the WA of SP composites by cross-linking starch and PVA.
The views of patients with advanced cancer regarding participation in serial questionnaire studies
Authors: Shipman C , Hotopf M , Richardson A , Murray S , Koffman J , Harding R , Speck P , Higginson IJ
Published: October 2008

Longitudinal research helps to clarify changing needs and the timing of treatments and referral but is hampered by poor recruitment and retention of participants. We explored, using semi-structured interviews in a cross-sectional design, the views and preferences of patients with advanced cancer on taking part in planned longitudinal questionnaire-based research studies. Patients with advanced lung and colorectal cancer were recruited from outpatient clinics in a London hospital. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken to explore their views about taking part in a specific future questionnaire study and their preferences regarding format. In all, 20 of 47 patients initially identified were recruited. Their preferences for the planned questionnaire study were for face-to-face interviews undertaken at home from late morning onwards with recontact at a mean of 6 weeks. Fluctuating symptom control needs could result in unexpected admission to or discharge from hospital. Developing flexible and responsive recruitment procedures is vital to retain patient participation as more than one contact might be required to successfully conclude an interview.
Association of HPA axis genes with suicidal behaviour in schizophrenia
Authors: De Luca V. , Tharmalingam S. , Zai C. , Potapova N. , Strauss J. , Vincent J. , Kennedy JL
Published: October 2008

Family, adoption and twin studies show that genetics influences suicidal behaviour, but do not indicate specific susceptibility variants. Stress response is thought to be mediated by the corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH), which is known to be a regulator of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal pathway (HPA). Alterations in HPA system have been related to impulsivity, aggression and suicidal behaviour, common feature in schizophrenia. CRH is the hypothalamic factor that stimulates the pituitary gland. To search for markers conferring genetic susceptibility to suicide, we typed six HPA axis genes (CRH, CRHR1, CRHR2, CRHBP, MC2R, NC3R1) in a cohort of 231 subjects with schizophrenia in which 81 attempted suicide. The genotype analyses yielded significant association between CRH binding protein (CRHBP) and suicide attempt (P = 0.035). The genotype analysis for quantitative measures of suicidal behaviour showed no association. The interaction analysis showed a significant interaction between CRH receptor type 1 (CRHR1) and CRH binding protein (CRHBP) in influencing suicide attempt and the severity of suicidal behaviour. Current results show that genetic variation in HPA axis genes could be associated with suicidal behaviour in schizophrenia. This is to our knowledge the first study on suicidal behaviour investigating the interaction among the HPA axis genes.
Some Studies in Metal Matrix Composites Machining using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Gaitonde V.N. , Karnik S.R. , Davim J. Paulo
Published: October 2008

The present study establishes the relationship between cutting conditions and machinability characteristics during the turning of metal matrix composites (MMC). The investigation aims at determining the effects of cutting speed and feed rate on machining force, cutting power, and specific cutting force by developing second-order mathematical models using response surface methodology (RSM). Aluminum alloy reinforced with 20% of SiC particulates (A 356/20/SiCp-T6) were machined using a polycrystalline diamond (PCD) tool. The experiments have been planned as a full factorial design of experiments (FFD). The analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to check the adequacy of the mathematical models. The parametric analysis reveals that the machining force and cutting power increase with increase in feed rate while the specific cutting force decreases.
Mechanical and Microstructural Evaluation of Polymer Matrix Composites Filled with Recycled Industrial Waste
Authors: Diniz Melo José Daniel , Dos Santos Eylisson André
Published: October 2008

In this study, the influence of the addition of industrial waste of polyester and EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) on the mechanical properties of polyester resin was studied. Specimens were fabricated and tested for the evaluation of flexural properties and Charpy impact resistance. Properties of the filled materials were measured and compared to those of the plain resin. The effect of particle size and filler content was also investigated. Then, fracture surfaces were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results indicate reductions in flexural strength and strain to failure with the addition of particulate fillers. However, an increase of about 6% in impact resistance was observed in composites with 12.5 wt% of EVA.
Possible sources of urinary benzene among nonoccupationally exposed Japanese subjects
Authors: Suna Shigeru , Hirao Tomohiro , Asakawa Fumiyuki , Suzue Takeshi , Mannami Toshifumi , Jitsunari Famihiko
Published: October 2008

Unmetabolized benzene in urine (U-benzene) is known to be the best marker among the indices for the biological monitoring of occupational and environmental exposure to benzene. In this study, we determined the levels of U-benzene among Japanese university students exposed to benzene nonoccupationally and analyzed the relation between U-benzene levels and the possible factors responsible for environmental benzene exposure. In urinalysis, U-benzene concentration among 124 students was detected in the range from 18 (minimum detection limit) to 249 ng/l. The frequency distribution of U-benzene concentration peaked at 0–19 ng/l. Mean and median values of 40 and 20 ng/l for U-benzene concentration in nonoccupationally exposed subjects were lower than those in a previous study. Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis was performed to assess the potential sources of exposure to environmental benzene by analyzing the relation between U-benzene and personal, behavioral, and environmental factors. The results showed that only smoking habit ( P < 0.01) and residential house age ( P < 0.05) were independent determinants of U-benzene levels. In addition, U-benzene levels in relation to smoking and house age suggested that these factors could be associated with the synergistic elevation of U-benzene. The present study showed U-benzene levels among non-occupationally exposed Japanese subjects and revealed that the major exposure sources to benzene in the general environment were tobacco smoking and indoor air contamination.
ADRA2A polymorphism and smoking in a Turkish population
Authors: Karahalil B , Coskun E , Emerce E
Published: October 2008

Adrenoceptors (ARs) consist of nine subtypes, which are involved in a wide spectrum of physiological functions and are the site of action for a considerable percentage of currently prescribed therapeutics. All AR subtypes (except α1D) can be polymorphic because of the genetic variations in the coding and non-coding regions. Sixteen sequence variations were identified in α-adrenergic 2A (ADRA2A) gene. Among them, ADRA2A C1291G polymorphism is one of the most important polymorphisms, which plays a major role in regulating neurotransmitter release, blood pressure, lipolysis, insulin secretion, and platelet aggregation. A C–G transversion results in an MspI restriction fragment length polymorphism located at 1291 bp upstream of the origin of transcription. Because Medline search showed no study showing the allelic frequencies, and no information is available on inter-individual variability of ADRA2A C1291G polymorphism in Turkish population, we genotyped 203 healthy Turkish subjects. Because of large genetic variation of the polymorphism, we aimed to find out the distribution of C1291G polymorphism in Turkish population. Furthermore, we evaluated the possible association between the C1291G polymorphism in the ADRA2A receptor gene and smoking. The frequencies for the 1291C and 1291G alleles were 64% and 36%, respectively. The genotype frequencies for C1291C, C1291G, and G1291G were 35.5%, 57.6%, and 6.9%, respectively, in Turkish population. The allelic frequencies (1291C and 1291G) and G1291G homozygous variant genotype were similar to those reported in different Caucasian populations; however, C1291C and C1291G genotypes were different. We also observed that the frequency of the G allele was slightly higher in smoker subjects and lower among controls. The ADRA2A G allele may play a role in the predisposition to smoking. There is a need for expanding genotype and haplotype studies because of its importance in various physiological disorders and to confirm the association of this polymorphism with smoking.
Moldy environments and toxic pneumonitis
Authors: Rylander R , Fogelmark B , Ewaldsson B
Published: October 2008

Exposure to organic dusts might cause an acute reaction with influenza like symptoms (toxic pneumonitis). Although it is well known that endotoxin, which is often present in organic dusts, may cause this reaction, there is no information about fungal cell wall agents as causative agents. The capacity of different fungal cell wall agents to induce an acute inflammation was evaluated in animal inhalation experiments. Guinea pigs were exposed to an aerosol of endotoxin, molds, and different fungal cell wall agents (FCWA) in a continuous flow exposure chamber, and the number of free lung cells was determined 24 h thereafter. Endotoxin caused a dose-dependent increase in the number of neutrophils and macrophages. None of the other agents tested caused a neutrophil response. The results suggest that toxic pneumonitis in environments with organic dusts is caused by the presence of inhaled endotoxin. Although no effect from FCWA was found, it is well known that this inhalation under chronic conditions will cause lung disease, particularly granulomatous pneumonitis.
Understanding Native Women's Health
Authors: Palacios Janelle F. , Portillo Carmen J.
Published: October 2008

Purpose: Theoretical underpinnings of two theories are examined for their applicability in guiding practice and research when understanding Native American women's health outcomes. Method: Published studies testing two independent theories, historical trauma and weathering, are reviewed. Key theoretical concepts that are applicable in the study of Native women and understanding their intergenerational heritage of injustice and cultural context are discussed. Results: The authors infer underlying assumptions and definitions of both theories and present a hypothetical diagram blending both theories. Conclusion: By understanding historical legacies and the surrounding context, researchers and clinicians can develop knowledge to improve and enhance optimal health outcomes and life opportunities for Native women.
Ensuring the Enfranchisement of People With Disabilities
Authors: Ward Andrew , Baker Paul M. A. , Moon Nathan W.
Published: October 2008

In a representational democracy, the process of selecting people to represent the electorate is critical. To accomplish this goal, it is crucial that elections be fair and accurate reflections of the decisions of the voters. However, a significant and relatively unacknowledged constituency, people with disabilities, faces a variety of barriers to full participation in the U.S. electoral democracy. Recent research has provided evidence that how people with disabilities vote is just as important as the physical barriers they face when casting their votes. This article presents an overview of the literature addressing issues that affect how people with disabilities vote, with an especial focus on the role of election officials as both facilitators and inhibitors of voting by people with disabilities.
Oxidative Stress and Total Antioxidant Capacity in Diabetic and Nondiabetic Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients
Authors: Guldiken Baburhan , Demir Muzaffer , Guldiken Sibel , Turgut Nilda , Turgut Burhan , Tugrul Armagan
Published: October 2008

Free radical formation is the pivotal mechanism of neuronal injury of ischemic and reperfused brain tissue. In healthy individuals, antioxidant activity counterbalances free radical production, but in the case of ischemia, the balance between reactive oxygen species and antioxidant activity is shifted toward free radicals, causing oxidative stress. The aim of this study is to assess total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and oxidative stress in diabetic and nondiabetic acute stroke patients with 2 different stroke subtypes: large and small vessel disease stroke. Sixty-five acute ischemic stroke patients (29 diabetic and 36 nondiabetic) and 20 age-matched healthy control subjects were recruited in the study. Plasma TAC and nitric oxide (NO) metabolite levels (nitrite and nitrate) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The subtypes of stroke were defined according to Trial of Org 10172 in Acute Stroke Treatment criteria. The main findings of this study are that the TAC and NO levels were significantly higher in diabetic acute stroke patients than in nondiabetic patients and control cases ( P < .001 and P < .001, respectively). The TAC and NO levels were higher also in nondiabetic stroke patients than in controls, but the difference did not reach any significance. No difference was found between NO and TAC levels in large and small vessel stroke subtypes of diabetic and nondiabetic patients. The authors conclude that oxidative stress and counterbalancing antioxidant capacity are more pronounced in diabetic acute stroke patients than in nondiabetic acute stroke patients.
Expanding the Reach of Preventive Interventions
Authors: Feil Edward G. , Baggett Kathleen M. , Davis Betsy , Sheeber Lisa , Landry Susan , Carta Judith J. , Buzhardt Jay
Published: October 2008

There are major obstacles to the effective delivery of mental health services to poor families, particularly for those families in rural areas. The rise of Internet use, however, has created potentially new avenues for service delivery, which, when paired with the many recent advances in computer networking and multimedia technology, is fueling a demand for Internet delivery of mental health services. The authors report on the adaptation of a parenting program for delivery via the Internet, enhanced with participant-created videos of parent-infant interactions and weekly staff contact, which enable distal treatment providers to give feedback and make decisions informed by direct behavioral assessment. This Internet-based, parent-education intervention has the potential to promote healthy and protective parent-infant interactions in families who might not otherwise receive needed mental health services.
Sober Drag Queens, Digital Forests, and Bloated “Lesbians”
Authors: Fox Ragan
Published: October 2008

This essay focuses on how gay podcasters, or “Qpodders,” perform their identities in “soundscape” environments. Most of the “data” presented in the report take the form of poetry, dramatic monologue, and dramatic dialogue. Using creative reporting strategies, I chronicle how Qpodders record the ambient sounds of the scenes in which they are embedded; and, as a result, I argue that, within the context of a podcast, nonverbal sounds are poetic and narrate.
Treatment Experiences of Civilly Committed Sex Offenders
Authors: Levenson Jill S. , Prescott David S.
Published: October 2008

The purpose of the study was to elicit feedback from sex offenders about the components of treatment that they believed to be most helpful in preventing reoffense. A sample of civilly committed sex offenders from the Sand Ridge Civil Commitment Center in Wisconsin ( n = 44) was surveyed about their perceptions of treatment, including content, process, therapists, rules, and completion requirements. Clients were asked to rate the importance of treatment components to their recovery and to rate their satisfaction with the treatment they received for each component. Participants expressed fairly positive sentiments about their treatment experiences, though specific concerns were noted. There was an overall positive correlation between importance of and satisfaction with treatment, but ratings of importance were consistently higher than ratings of satisfaction. Implications for practice and future research are discussed.
Goethe in Palermo
Authors: Dodd Nigel
Published: October 2008

This paper considers substantive and methodological issues that are raised by the deployment of Goethe's notion of the Urphänomen in the work of Georg Simmel and Walter Benjamin. The paper is exploratory. I employ Goethe's idea, and his approach to empirical observation and theory more generally, to examine affinities and contrasts between the methodology of Simmel and Benjamin. Like Goethe, both Simmel and Benjamin make imaginative use of analogical reasoning, and their approaches resist conventional sociological classification as particular kinds of `theory'. Simmel and Benjamin are thinkers who seek to present their arguments in a mode which cannot be divorced from their substance. By comparing their approaches in relation to Goethe's idea, we can illuminate new aspects of Benjamin's historiography and Simmel's approach to societal and historical form.
The Economics—Sociology Divide
Authors: Graça João Carlos
Published: October 2008

The academic divide between economics and sociology suggested by Talcott Parsons in the 1930s is based on a fundamentally mischievous and incoherent reading of various authors from the tradition of political economy. The interpretations proposed by Parsons are criticized, and it is thereby concluded that this divide has inhibited more than propitiated the intellectual commerce within social sciences, although no doubt enhancing Parsons' academic position. At any rate, it has also assured an academic recognition for sociology, if in a subaltern- situation vis-à-vis economics. Further theoretical reformulations by Parsons are confirmation of previously mentioned incoherence and misunderstandings, without resolving them.
Creating an Optimal Language Learning Environment
Authors: Cheng Li-Rong Lilly
Published: October 2008

Understanding the family systems and structures of our diverse populations is one of the most important tasks of professionals in education. Children learn from their family, school, and community. They learn from their experiences by observing, talking, and interacting with their environment. Parents play a pivotal role in the education of their children. However, as illustrated by case studies that focus mostly on Asian families, cultural definitions and differences can create conflict between the family and educators—conflict that can end in tragedy. Creating a school-home educational relationship is crucial to the needs of the child. This article provides suggestions for creating and providing an optimal learning environment for children to help build a foundation for academic and life success.
The Acquisition of Mental Orthographic Representations for Reading and Spelling Development
Authors: Apel Kenn
Published: October 2008

Word-level reading and spelling skills support reading comprehension and writing composition. Accurate and fluent word-level reading and spelling are facilitated when individuals have clear mental orthographic representations (MOR) that permit them to quickly recognize and recall the visual representation of a word, freeing up memory and attentional resources for comprehending or composing text. It is interesting that the role MOR development plays in early literacy development has received minimal attention. This article, based on a presentation at the 2007 Katharine G. Butler Symposium on Child Language, first reviews the literature that supports a sequential view of MOR acquisition followed by recent findings that support MOR development as a unique and independently developing skill. A general overview of three investigations designed to determine the independence and contribution of MOR development to children’s acquisition of word-level literacy skills is provided. Suggestions for further research and initial clinical implications are made based on the results of the investigations and the current literature on MOR development.
Review: Treatment options for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Chitturi Shivakumar
Published: October 2008

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease comprises a range of disorders from steatosis and steatohepatitis through to cirrhosis. Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis can progress to cirrhosis and liver-related death. Therefore, managing this common disorder is becoming an important public health issue. Lifestyle measures are commonly suggested but robust data are lacking. Trials with antioxidants (vitamin E, betaine) as well as cytoprotectants (ursodeoxycholic acid) have been disappointing. While data for insulin sensitizers such as metformin are less conclusive, thiazolidinediones appear promising. However, not all patients respond to thiazolidinediones. Moreover, issues related to weight gain, cardiovascular risk need to be addressed. The use of endocannabinoid antagonists and insulin secretagogues are novel strategies to combat this disorder.
Hepatitis C virus association with peripheral blood B lymphocytes potentiates viral infection of liver-derived hepatoma cells
Authors: Stamataki Zania , Shannon-Lowe Claire , Shaw Jean , Mutimer David , Rickinson Alan B. , Gordon John , Adams David H. , Balfe Peter , McKeating Jane A.
Published: October 2008

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) primarily replicates within the liver, leading to hepatitis, fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Infection is also associated with B-cell abnormalities, suggesting an association of the virus with B cells. The infectious JFH-1 strain of HCV can bind primary and immortalized B cells but fails to establish productive infection. However, B cell–associated virus readily infects hepatoma cells, showing an enhanced infectivity compared with extracellular virus. B cells express the viral receptors CD81, SR-BI, and the C-type lectins DC-SIGN and L-SIGN. Antibodies specific for SR-BI and DC-SIGN/L-SIGN reduced B-cell transinfection, supporting a role for these molecules in B-cell association with HCV. Stimulation of B cells with CD40 ligand and interleukin-4 promoted their ability to transinfect hepatoma cells. B cell–associated virus is resistant to trypsin proteolysis and HCV-specific neutralizing antibodies, consistent with particle internalization. HCV promoted the adhesion of primary B cells to Huh-7 hepatomas, providing a mechanism for B-cell retention in the infected liver. In summary, B cells may provide a vehicle for HCV to persist and transmit to the liver.
The evolution of TEP1, an exceptionally polymorphic immunity gene in Anopheles gambiae
Authors: Obbard Darren J , Callister Deborah M , Jiggins Francis M , Soares Dinesh C , Yan Guiyun , Little Tom J
Published: October 2008

Background

Host-parasite coevolution can result in balancing selection, which maintains genetic variation in the susceptibility of hosts to parasites. It has been suggested that variation in a thioester-containing protein called TEP1 (AGAP010815) may alter the ability of Anopheles mosquitoes to transmit Plasmodium parasites, and high divergence between alleles of this gene suggests the possible action of long-term balancing selection. We studied whether TEP1 is a case of an ancient balanced polymorphism in an animal immune system.

Results

We found evidence that the high divergence between TEP1 alleles is the product of genetic exchange between TEP1 and other TEP loci, i.e. gene conversion. Additionally, some TEP1 alleles showed unexpectedly low variability.

Conclusion

The TEP1 gene appears to be a chimera produced from at least two other TEP loci, and the divergence between TEP1 alleles is probably not caused by long-term balancing selection, but is instead due to two independent gene conversion events from one of these other genes. Nevertheless, TEP1 still shows evidence of natural selection, in particular there appears to have been recent changes in the frequency of alleles that has diminished polymorphism within each allelic class. Although the selective force driving this dynamic was not identified, given that susceptibility to Plasmodium parasites is known to be associated with allelic variation in TEP1, these changes in allele frequencies could alter the vectoring capacity of populations.
Detecting the effects of selection at the population level in six bovine immune genes
Authors: Freeman Abigail R , Lynn David J , Murray Caitriona , Bradley Daniel G
Published: October 2008

Background

The capacity of a species or population to respond to and survive novel infectious disease challenge is one of the most significant selective forces shaping genetic diversity and the period following animal domestication was likely one of the most important in terms of newly emerging diseases. Inter-specific genome-wide comparison has suggested that genes, including cluster of differentiation 2 (CD2), ADP-ribosyltransferase 4 (ART4), tyrosine kinase binding protein (TYROBP) and interleukins IL2, IL5, IL13, may have undergone positive selection during the evolution of the bovine lineage. Past adaptive change implies that more recent variation may have also been subject to selective forces.

Results

In this paper, we re-sequence each of these genes in cattle cohorts from Europe, Africa and Asia to investigate patterns of polymorphism at the population level. Patterns of diversity are higher withinBos indicussuggesting different demographic history to that ofBos taurus. Significant coding polymorphism was observed within each of the cell-surface receptors. In particular, CD2 shows two divergent haplotypes defined by a series of six derived nonsynonymous substitutions that are significantly clustered on the extracellular surface of the protein and give significant values for Fay and Wu'sH, strongly suggesting a recent adaptive history. In contrast, the signaling molecules (especially IL13) display outlying allele frequency spectra which are consistent with the effects of selection, but display negligible coding polymorphism.

Conclusion

We present evidence suggestive of recent adaptive history in bovine immune genes; implying some correspondence between intra- and inter-specific signals of selection. Interestingly, three signaling molecules have negligible nonsynonymous variation but show outlying test statistics in contrast to three receptors, where it is protein sequence diversity that suggests selective history.
A comparative computational analysis of nonautonomous Helitron elements between maize and rice
Authors: Sweredoski Michael , DeRose-Wilson Leah , Gaut Brandon S
Published: October 2008

Background

Helitrons are DNA transposable elements that are proposed to replicate via a rolling circle mechanism. Non-autonomous helitron elements have captured gene fragments from many genes in maize (Zea mays ssp. mays) but only a handful of genes in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). This observation suggests very different histories for helitrons in these two species, but it is unclear which species contains helitrons that are more typical of plants.

Results

We performed computational searches to identify helitrons in maize and rice genomic sequence data. Using 12 previously identified helitrons as a seed set, we identified 23 helitrons in maize, five of which were polymorphic among a sample of inbred lines. Our total sample of maize helitrons contained fragments of 44 captured genes. Twenty-one of 35 of these helitrons did not cluster with other elements into closely related groups, suggesting substantial diversity in the maize element complement. We identified over 552 helitrons in the japonica rice genome. More than 70% of these were found in a collinear location in the indica rice genome, and 508 clustered as a single large subfamily. The japonica rice elements contained fragments of only 11 genes, a number similar to that in Arabidopsis. Given differences in gene capture between maize and rice, we examined sequence properties that could contribute to differences in capture rates, focusing on 3' palindromes that are hypothesized to play a role in transposition termination. The free energy of folding for maize helitrons were significantly lower than those in rice, but the direction of the difference differed from our prediction.

Conclusion

Maize helitrons are clearly unique relative to those of rice and Arabidopsis in the prevalence of gene capture, but the reasons for this difference remain elusive. Maize helitrons do not seem to be more polymorphic among individuals than those of Arabidopsis; they do not appear to be substantially older or younger than the helitrons in either species; and our analyses provided little evidence that the 3' hairpin plays a role.
Determination of the mimic epitope of the M-like protein adhesin in swine Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus
Authors: Fan Hongjie , Wang Yongshan , Tang Fuyu , Lu Chengping
Published: October 2008

Background

The M-like protein, also known as SzP, is expressed on the surface ofStreptococcus equisubsp. zooepidemicus(S. zooepidemicus). Previous studies demonstrated that SzP is similar to M protein of group AStreptococcusin the structure and characteristics of antiphagocytosis. The M protein is an adhesin that can bind to the host cells, however it is not known whether the SzP ofS. zooepidemicusalso functions as an adhesin. We conducted an investigation to determine SzP as an adhesin, and one SzP epitope was identified to be responsible for mediating binding to HEp-2 cells.

Methods

The gene encoding SzP was expressed inE. coli, and the purified recombinant SzP (rSzP) was recognized by rabbit anti-S. zooepidemicusantibodies using immunoblot. Furthermore, the adherence ofS. zooepidemicusto HEp-2 cells was inhibited by anti-rSzP antibodies in a dose-dependent manner. We employed a random 12-peptide phage display library for screening of immunodominant mimics of the SzP, which were recognized by an anti-SzP specific monoclonal antibody (mAb 2C8). Initial positive phage clones were identified by ELISA, followed by assays to determine the adherence-inhibiting ability of the peptide.

Results

Ten out of fourteen selected positive clones showed high reactivity that effectively inhibited the binding of mAb 2C8 to rSzP. The motif XSLSRX was highly conserved among six of the ten clones.

Conclusion

Collectively, our findings suggest that the motif XSLSRX may represent an immunodominant mimic epitope of the SzP ofS. zooepidemicusstrain ATCC 35246, and that the same epitope may be used to mediate SzP binding to HEp-2 cells.
Sulphur metabolism and cellulase gene expression are connected processes in the filamentous fungus Hypocrea jecorina (anamorph Trichoderma reesei)
Authors: Gremel Gabriela , Dorrer Marcel , Schmoll Monika
Published: October 2008

Background

Sulphur compounds like cysteine, methionine and S-adenosylmethionine are essential for the viability of most cells. Thus many organisms have developed a complex regulatory circuit that governs the expression of enzymes involved in sulphur assimilation and metabolism. In the filamentous fungus Hypocrea jecorina (anamorph Trichoderma reesei) little is known about the participants in this circuit.

Results

Analyses of proteins binding to the cellulase activating element (CAE) within the promotor of the cellobiohydrolase cbh2 gene led to the identification of a putative E3 ubiquitin ligase protein named LIMPET (LIM1), which is an orthologue of the sulphur regulators SCON-2 of Neurospora crassa and Met30p of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Transcription of lim1 is specifically up-regulated upon sulphur limitation and responds to cellulase inducing conditions. In addition, light dependent stimulation/shut down of cellulase gene transcription by methionine in the presence of sulphate was observed. Further, lim1 transcriptionally reacts to a switch from constant darkness to constant light and is subject to regulation by the light regulatory protein ENVOY. Thus lim1, despite its function in sulphur metabolite repression, responds both to light as well as sulphur- and carbon source. Upon growth on cellulose, the uptake of sulphate is dependent on the light status and essential for growth in light. Unlike other fungi, growth of H. jecorina is not inhibited by selenate under low sulphur conditions, suggesting altered regulation of sulphur metabolism. Phylogenetic analysis of the five sulphate permeases found in the genome of H. jecorina revealed that the predominantly mycelial sulphate permease is lacking, thus supporting this hypothesis.

Conclusion

Our data indicate that the significance of the sulphate/methionine-related signal with respect to cellulase gene expression is dependent on the light status and reaches beyond detection of sulphur availability.
The accuracy of symptoms, signs and diagnostic tests in the diagnosis of left ventricular dysfunction in primary care: A diagnostic accuracy systematic review
Authors: Madhok V , Falk G , Rogers A , Struthers AD , Sullivan FM , Fahey T
Published: October 2008

Background

To assess the accuracy of findings from the clinical history, symptoms, signs and diagnostic tests (ECG, CXR and natriuretic peptides) in relation to the diagnosis of left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) in a primary care setting.

Methods

Diagnostic accuracy systematic review, we searched Medline (1966 to March 2008), EMBASE (1988 to March 2008), Central, Cochrane and ZETOC using a diagnostic accuracy search filter. We included cross-sectional or cohort studies that assess the diagnostic utility of clinical history, symptoms, signs and diagnostic tests, against a reference standard of echocardiography. We calculated pooled positive and negative likelihood ratios and assessed heterogeneity using the I2 index.

Results

24 studies incorporating 10,710 patients were included. The median prevalence of LVSD was 29.9% (inter-quartile range 14% to 37%). No item from the clinical history or symptoms provided sufficient diagnostic information to "rule in" or "rule out" LVSD. Displaced apex beat shows a convincing diagnostic effect with a pooled positive likelihood ratio of 16.0 (8.2–30.9) but this finding occurs infrequently in patients. ECG was the most widely studied diagnostic test, the negative likelihood ratio ranging from 0.06 to 0.6. Natriuretic peptide results were strongly heterogeneous, with negative likelihood ratios ranging from 0.02 to 0.80.

Conclusion

Findings from the clinical history and examination are insufficient to "rule in" or "rule out" a diagnosis of LVSD in primary care settings. BNP and ECG measurement appear to have similar diagnostic utility and are most useful in "ruling out" LVSD with a normal test result when the probability of LVSD is in the intermediate range.
Restoration of tumor suppressor miR-34 inhibits human p53-mutant gastric cancer tumorspheres
Authors: Ji Qing , Hao Xinbao , Meng Yang , Zhang Min , DeSano Jeffrey , Fan Daiming , Xu Liang
Published: October 2008

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), some of which function as oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes, are involved in carcinogenesis via regulating cell proliferation and/or cell death. MicroRNA miR-34 was recently found to be a direct target of p53, functioning downstream of the p53 pathway as a tumor suppressor. miR-34 targets Notch, HMGA2, and Bcl-2, genes involved in the self-renewal and survival of cancer stem cells. The role of miR-34 in gastric cancer has not been reported previously. In this study, we examined the effects of miR-34 restoration on p53-mutant human gastric cancer cells and potential target gene expression.

Methods

Human gastric cancer cells were transfected with miR-34 mimics or infected with the lentiviral miR-34-MIF expression system, and validated by miR-34 reporter assay using Bcl-2 3'UTR reporter. Potential target gene expression was assessed by Western blot for proteins, and by quantitative real-time RT-PCR for mRNAs. The effects of miR-34 restoration were assessed by cell growth assay, cell cycle analysis, caspase-3 activation, and cytotoxicity assay, as well as by tumorsphere formation and growth.

Results

Human gastric cancer Kato III cells with miR-34 restoration reduced the expression of target genes Bcl-2, Notch, and HMGA2. Bcl-2 3'UTR reporter assay showed that the transfected miR-34s were functional and confirmed that Bcl-2 is a direct target of miR-34. Restoration of miR-34 chemosensitized Kato III cells with a high level of Bcl-2, but not MKN-45 cells with a low level of Bcl-2. miR-34 impaired cell growth, accumulated the cells in G1 phase, increased caspase-3 activation, and, more significantly, inhibited tumorsphere formation and growth.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that in p53-deficient human gastric cancer cells, restoration of functional miR-34 inhibits cell growth and induces chemosensitization and apoptosis, indicating that miR-34 may restore p53 function. Restoration of miR-34 inhibits tumorsphere formation and growth, which is reported to be correlated to the self-renewal of cancer stem cells. The mechanism of miR-34-mediated suppression of self-renewal appears to be related to the direct modulation of downstream targets Bcl-2, Notch, and HMGA2, indicating that miR-34 may be involved in gastric cancer stem cell self-renewal/differentiation decision-making. Our study suggests that restoration of the tumor suppressor miR-34 may provide a novel molecular therapy for p53-mutant gastric cancer.
Family caregiver quality of life in multiple sclerosis among Kuwaitis: a controlled study
Authors: Alshubaili Asmahan F , Ohaeri Jude U , Awadalla Abdel W , Mabrouk Asser A
Published: October 2008

Background

Research interest in the quality of life (QOL) of persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) has been spurred by the need to broaden outcome measures. Far less of this interest has been directed at the family caregivers, who bear most of the burden of care. The objectives of the study were: First, to compare the subjective QOL of family caregivers of persons with relapsing remitting and progressive MS, with those of a matched general population sample and caregivers of diabetes and psychiatric patients. Second, to assess the relationship of QOL with caregiver attitudes to MS and patient's variables.

Methods

Consecutive MS clinic attendees were assessed with the 26 – item WHOQOL Instrument, and for depression and disability. Similarly, caregivers independently rated their own QOL as well as their impression of patients' QOL and attitudes to patients' illness.

Results

The 170 caregivers, mean age 35.7 years, had no significant diagnostic differences in QOL domain scores and attitudes to MS. Caregivers had significantly lower QOL than the general population control group for five out of six domains and the general facet (P < 0.01), but higher QOL than the patients. When the scores were corrected for patients' depression and disability, caregivers had similar QOL with the general population group for four domains. Using corrected scores, MS caregivers had lower scores than diabetic and psychiatric caregivers in the physical, psychological and social relations domains. Majority expressed negative attitudes to MS. Caregiver QOL was more affected by their fear of having MS than their feelings about the illness and caregiving role. Caregiver attitudes had mostly no significant impact on their proxy ratings of patients' QOL. The significant predictor of caregivers' overall QOL was their impression of patients' QOL.

Conclusion

Caregivers need specific attention if they are less educated, unemployed, afraid of having MS and caring for patients with longer duration of illness and less education. In particular, attention to patients' depression and disability could improve caregivers' QOL. Caregivers need specific programs to address fear of having MS, negative attitudes to illness and their unmet needs.
A conserved acidic patch in the Myb domain is required for activation of an endogenous target gene and for chromatin binding
Authors: Ko Emily Ray , Ko Dennis , Chen Carolyn , Lipsick Joseph S
Published: October 2008

The c-Myb protein is a transcriptional regulator initially identified by homology to the v-Myb oncoprotein, and has since been implicated in human cancer. The most highly conserved portion of the c-Myb protein is the DNA-binding domain which consists of three imperfect repeats. Many other proteins contain one or more Myb-related domains, including a number of proteins that do not bind directly to DNA. We performed a phylogenetic analysis of diverse classes of Myb-related domains and discovered a highly conserved patch of acidic residues common to all Myb-related domains. These acidic residues are positioned in the first of three alpha-helices within each of the three repeats that comprise the c-Myb DNA-binding domain. Interestingly, these conserved acidic residues are present on a surface of the protein which is distinct from that which binds to DNA. Alanine mutagenesis revealed that the acidic patch of the third c-Myb repeat is essential for transcriptional activity, but neither for nuclear localization nor DNA-binding. Instead, these acidic residues are required for efficient chromatin binding and interaction with the histone H4 N-terminal tail.
Fast quantitative determination of microbial rhamnolipids from cultivation broths by ATR-FTIR Spectroscopy
Authors: Leitermann Frank , Syldatk Christoph , Hausmann Rudolf
Published: October 2008

Background

Vibrational spectroscopic techniques are becoming increasingly important and popular because they have the potential to provide rapid and convenient solutions to routine analytical problems. Using these techniques, a variety of substances can be characterized, identified and also quantified rapidly.

Results

The rapid ATR-FTIR (Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy)in timetechnique has been applied, which is suitable to quantify the concentrations of microbial rhamnolipids in a typical cultivation process. While the usually applied HPLC analysis requires an extensive and time consuming multi step extraction protocol for sample preparation, the ATR-FTIR-method allows the quantification of the rhamnolipids within 20 minutes. Accuracies between 0.5 g/l – 2.1 g/l for the different analytes were determined by cross validation of the calibration set. Even better accuracies between 0.28 g/l – 0.59 g/l were found for independent test samples of an arbitrarily selected cultivation.

Conclusion

ATR-FTIR was found to be suitable for the rapid analysis of rhamnolipids in a biotechnological process with good reproducibility in sample determination and sufficient accuracy. An improvement in accuracy through continuous expansion and validation of the reference spectra set seems very likely.