bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of different clonal complexes and diverse amino acid substitutions in penicillin-binding protein 2 (PBP2) associated with borderline oxacillin resistance in Canadian Staphylococcus aureus isolates
Authors: Nadarajah Jeya , Lee Mark J. S. , Louie Lisa , Jacob Latha , Simor Andrew E. , Louie Marie , McGavin Martin J.
Published: November 2006

Borderline oxacillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (BORSA) exhibit oxacillin MIC values of 1–8 μg ml−1, but lack mecA, which encodes the low-affinity penicillin-binding protein (PBP)2a. The relationship of the BORSA phenotype with specific genetic backgrounds was assessed, as well as amino acid sequence variation in the normal PBP2. Among 38 BORSA, 26 had a common PFGE profile of genomic DNA, and were multilocus sequence type (ST)25. The other isolates were genetically diverse. Complete pbp2 sequences were determined for three BORSA, corresponding to ST25, ST1 and ST47, which were selected on the basis of lacking blaZ-encoded β-lactamase. The essential transpeptidase-domain-encoding segment of pbp2 was also sequenced from seven additional ST25 isolates. Amino acid substitutions occurred in the transpeptidase domain of all BORSA, irrespective of clonal type. A Gln629→Pro substitution was common to all ST25 BORSA, but most could be distinguished from one another by additional unique substitutions in the transpeptidase domain. The ST1 and ST47 isolates also possessed unique substitutions in the transpeptidase domain. Plasmid-mediated expression of pbp2 from an ST25 or ST1 isolate in S. aureus RN6390 increased its oxacillin MIC from 0.25 to 4 μg ml−1, while pbp2 from a susceptible strain, ATCC 25923, had no effect. Therefore, different amino acid substitutions in PBP2 of diverse BORSA lineages contribute to borderline resistance. The predominant ST25 lineage was not related to any of the five clonal complexes that contain meticillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), suggesting that ST25 cannot readily acquire mecA-mediated resistance.
Recovery of interfering and β-lactamase-producing bacteria from group A β-haemolytic streptococci carriers and non-carriers
Authors: Brook Itzhak , Gober Alan E.
Published: November 2006

The purpose of this study was to compare the frequency of recovery of aerobic and anaerobic organisms with interfering capability against group A β-haemolytic streptococci (GABHS) and β-lactamase-producing bacteria (BLPB) from the tonsils of GABHS carriers and non-carriers. The presence of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria capable of such interference in vitro was evaluated in cultures obtained from the tonsils of 20 healthy children who were non-GABHS carriers and 20 who were GABHS carriers, and also from 20 children who were asymptomatic after completing a course of penicillin for acute GABHS pharyngo-tonsillitis (PT) and were non-GABHS carriers and 20 who were GABHS carriers. In healthy children, 32 interfering isolates were recovered from 16 non-GABHS carriers (1.6 per child) and 13 were isolated from 7 GABHS carriers (0.65 per child) (P<0.001). In children who had suffered acute GABHS PT, 26 interfering organisms were recovered from 15 non-GABHS carriers (1.3 per child) and 8 were isolated from 5 GABHS carriers (0.4 per child) (P<0.005). In healthy children, 13 BLPB were recovered from 5 non-GABHS carriers and 13 were isolated from 6 GABHS carriers. In children who had suffered acute GABHS PT, 14 BLPB were recovered from 5 (25 %) non-GABHS carriers and 32 were isolated from 17 (85 %) GABHS carriers (P<0.05). It was demonstrated in this study that there was a higher rate of recovery of aerobic and anaerobic organisms capable of interfering with GABHS in non-GABHS carriers than in GABHS carriers. This was observed in all GABHS non-carriers and included healthy children as well as those recently treated for symptomatic GABHS PT with penicillin that failed to eradicate GABHS. A higher rate of recovery of BLPB was observed only in GABHS carriers who were treated with penicillin for GABHS PT.
Syringolin A, a new plant elicitor from the phytopathogenic bacterium Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae, inhibits the proliferation of neuroblastoma and ovarian cancer cells and induces apoptosis
Authors: Coleman C. S. , Rocetes J. P. , Park D. J. , Wallick C. J. , Warn‐Cramer B. J. , Michel K. , Dudler R. , Bachmann A. S.
Published: November 2006

Abstract.  Syringolin A is a new plant elicitor produced by the plant pathogen Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae. The goal of this study was to investigate whether syringolin A exhibits anti‐proliferative properties in cancer cells. The treatment of human neuroblastoma (NB) cells (SK‐N‐SH and LAN‐1) and human ovarian cancer cells (SKOV3) with syringolin A (0–100 µm) inhibited cell proliferation in a dose‐dependent manner. The IC50 (50% inhibition) for each cell line ranged between 20 µm and 25 µm. In SK‐N‐SH cells, the treatment with 20 µm syringolin A led to a rapid (24 h) increase of the apoptosis‐associated tumour suppressor protein p53. In addition, we found that the treatment of SK‐N‐SH cells caused severe morphological changes after 48 h such as rounding of cells and loss of adherence, both conditions observed during apoptosis. The induction of apoptosis by syringolin A was confirmed by both poly (ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP) cleavage and annexin V assay. Taken together, we show for the first time that the natural product syringolin A exhibits anti‐proliferative activity and induces apoptosis. Syringolin A and structurally modified syringolin A derivatives may serve as new lead compounds for the development of novel anticancer drugs.
Animal Transboundary Diseases: European Union and Asian Network of Veterinary Research Cooperation for Quality Livestock Production
Authors: Ahmed J. S. , Alp H. , Aksin M. , Seitzer U.
Published: November 2006

Transboundary animal diseases (TADs) constitute a global threat that afflict livestock. They are characterized by the suddenness, acuteness, the rapidity with which they can spread in susceptible livestock populations and the widespread nature of the losses that they can produce. The havoc they play renders individual farmers and private veterinary services relatively powerless to take effective action. As TADs do not recognize national borders, there is a great demand for regional cooperation which must be put into a global term. From the epidemiological point of view, the prospects for eradication of a disease with minimal production losses and other costs are best, if the disease can be recognized early where it is localized and then a disease control programme be quickly implemented.
Foot and Mouth Disease, Rinderpest, Peste des Petits Ruminants and Avian Influenza in the Erbil, Dohuk, and Sulaimania Governorates of Iraq
Authors: Dosky A. M. , Ahmed B. D. , Seitzer U. , Ahmed J.
Published: November 2006

Foot and mouth disease (FMD) outbreaks in the northern part of Iraq have been reported. The outbreaks in 1998/1999 were due to type O virus and the disease was associated with significant mortalities especially in young calves and lambs. Furthermore, 10 FMD‐like incidents in cattle were reported in 2002 in the three northern governorates. However, these cases were not associated with mortalities and the disease remained localized in the primary foci. Type A virus was isolated from the tested samples, which appears to belong to a genetic lineage within the Iran‐96 topotype. A peste des petits ruminants (PPR) outbreak was reported on 27 July, 1998 in Faida, a border town between Ninevah and Dohuk governorates in Iraq. The disease was also reported from four villages: Azadi, Kherpe Sufla, Beibinava and Kendala Sur in northern Iraq. Outbreaks of PPR were also reported in the Aqre region of Dohuk and in Erbil and Sulaimania governorates. Although this disease had been suspected in the central and northern governorates for several years, and was known to be present in neighbouring countries, this was the first official report of PPR in the country and caused great concern. Two human cases of avian influenza (AI) were recorded in the Sulaimania Governorate in January 2006 and the virus was identified as H5N1 by the WHO collaborating laboratory in the United Kingdom. Based on clinical symptoms a number of cases were recorded in February, 2006 in Misan in South Iraq. However, further tests revealed that all these cases were not due to AI.
Effects of psychoeducation for depression on help‐seeking willingness: Biological attribution versus destigmatization
Authors: HAN DER‐YAN , CHEN SUE‐HUEI , HWANG KWANG‐KUO , WEI HAI‐LANG
Published: November 2006

Abstract  Existing literature shows that the level of biological attribution and stigma of depression influences willingness to seek help. However, no study has used experimental methods to explore the question whether increasing biological attribution and decreasing blameworthy attitude towards depression will enhance willingness to seek help. In so doing, 299 college students were randomly assigned to biological, destigmatization, combined, and control groups. The measures included the Biological Attribution Scale, Psychological Blame Scale, and Help‐Seeking Willingness Scale. The data were analyzed by a 2 × 2 ancova (with or without biological attribution education × with or without destigmatization education) on willingness to seek professional help which was assessed 2 weeks later, with adjusting for help‐seeking willingness at baseline. Results showed that biological education had a significant main effect to elevate help‐seeking willingness, but destigmatization education did not. In addition, no interaction effect existed between the two independent variables. The authors suggested that biological education makes people legitimize depression as a disease entity, so that it would be a practical approach to increase people’s motivation to solve their emotional afflictions, especially in societies that emphasize emotional constraints. In contrast, although destigmatization information reduces people’s negative appraisals to the depressed individuals, it does not go a step further to increase people’s motivation to seek professional help. Further studies are needed to clarify the mechanisms of educational effects.
Carcinosarcoma of the ureter: Report of a case with unusual histology and review of the literature
Authors: DARKO ANGELA , DAS KASTURI , BHALLA RAHULDEV S , HELLER DEBRA
Published: November 2006

Abstract  Carcinosarcomas of the ureter are rare biphasic neoplasms, with distinct malignant epithelial and mesenchymal components. To the authors’ knowledge there have been only 12 cases reported in the literature. Primary cartilaginous tumors of the ureter are also rare tumors. Thus far there has been a single case report of an extraskeletal mesenchymal chondrosarcoma of the ureter in the German literature. Herein a unique case is reported of ureteral carcinosarcoma in an 81‐year‐old woman presenting with gross hematuria in which the sarcomatous component had extraskeletal mesenchymal chondrosarcomatous differentiation. This is thought to be the first reported case of a carcinosarcoma with such a differentiation in the sarcomatous component.
Intrathecal glutamate promotes glycinergic neuronal activity and inhibits the micturition reflex in urethane‐anesthetized rats
Authors: ASHITOMI KATSUHIRO , SUGAYA KIMIO , MIYAZATO MINORU , NISHIJIMA SAORI , OGAWA YOSHIHIDE
Published: November 2006

Objectives: In order to clarify the role of glutamate in the micturition reflex and in glutamatergic and glycinergic neuronal activity, we examined the effects of intrathecal (IT) injection of glutamate or MK‐801 (an N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor antagonist) on bladder activity and on the glutamate and glycine levels in the lumbosacral cord of female rats with or without acute lower thoracic spinal cord injury (SCI).

Methods: Under urethane anesthesia, isovolumetric cystometry was performed in rats with or without SCI before and after IT injection of glutamate or MK‐801 at the lumbosacral cord level. The glutamate and glycine levels of the whole lumbosacral cord were measured after IT injection of glutamate or MK‐801 in both groups.

Results: In intact rats, IT glutamate (100 µg) prolonged the interval between bladder contractions and decreased the amplitude of contractions. IT MK‐801 (3–100 µg) also prolonged the interval between bladder contractions and decreased the amplitude in intact rats. In SCI rats, cystometry demonstrated the disappearance of bladder contractions, and the glycine level in the lumbosacral cord was elevated. In intact rats, IT glutamate (0.3–100 µg) increased the glycine level in the lumbosacral cord. On the other hand, IT MK‐801 (3–100 µg) decreased both glutamate and glycine levels in intact and SCI rats.

Conclusions: These results suggest that glutamatergic neurons have stimulatory projections to both glutamatergic and glycinergic neurons in the lumbosacral cord, and that glutamatergic neurons inhibit the micturition reflex by stimulating glycinergic neurons.
Quirky Subjects in Old French*
Authors: Mathieu Eric
Published: November 2006

Abstract. The aim of this paper is to show that Old French makes great use of quirky subjects. Dubbed ‘impersonal constructions’ in the traditional literature, such structures typically involve an empty subject position that a dative or accusative comes to fill. This, I show, very much resembles the operation called Stylistic Fronting which is clearly available in Old French. The hypothesis put forward is that Stylistically Fronted elements and oblique subjects target TopP+, a special Topic position above TP. Many examples are introduced showing that oblique preverbal elements are true subjects and thatprois thus not the subject of impersonal constructions in Old French. The paper also argues that in Old French, tense rather than agreement is responsible for the licensing of nominative case.
Headache Attributed to Infection: Observations on the IHS Classification (ICHD-II)
Authors: Marchioni E , Tavazzi E , Bono G , Minoli L , Bastianello S , Sinforiani E , Sances G , Tinelli C , Nappi G
Published: November 2006

The aim of this study was to revise some topics in the chapter ‘Headache attributed to infections’ in the last International Headache Society (IHS) classification. The authors searched for original studies and reviews about headache associated with infections. A checklist was submitted to 15 neurologists to quantify the relevance, comprehensibility and coherence between definitions, criteria and comments for each paragraph. The following paragraphs were fully discussed: (1) headache attributed to lymphocytic meningitis. This topic, being rather heterogeneous, should be divided into different subgroups; (2) headache attributed to HIV/AIDS. Distinctive features are not specified and diagnostic criteria are rather confusing; and (3) chronic post-infection headache. Diagnostic criteria should be reconsidered as the symptom ‘pain’ is not the main diagnostic criterion. The authors propose the revision of three paragraphs of the new IHS classification to better define the most likely headache profile in specific CNS infections. The authors also underline the need to plan further ad hoc prospective studies.
Constrained Labour: Maternal Employment When Children Have Disabilities
Authors: Gordon Meg , Rosenman Linda , Cuskelly Monica
Published: November 2006

Background  This study compared the workforce participation levels of mothers with and without dependent children with disabilities to provide recent data that could be considered representative of the range of families with dependent children with disabilities.

Method  Secondary cross‐sectional data from a representative Australian household survey were used and subject to quantitative analysis.

Results  Significantly lower levels of workforce participation were found among mothers of children with disabilities compared with mothers without children with disabilities. There was no evidence of a lesser desire to work. Mother's partnership status and having a child with a severe/profound activity limitation each impacted on the nature of the differences in level of workforce participation.

Conclusions  The results raise concerns about the particularly low levels of part‐time work among some mothers of children with disabilities, and about the impact of having a child with severe/profound activity limitations. Questions are raised about the impact of sole parent status in combination with having a child with a disability.
Disentangling gaze shifts from preparatory ERP effects during spatial attention
Authors: Kennett Steffan , Van Velzen José , Eimer Martin , Driver Jon
Published: November 2006

After a cue directing attention to one side, anterior event‐related potentials (ERPs) show contralateral negativity (anterior directing attention negativity, ADAN). It is unclear whether ADAN effects are contaminated by contralateral negativity arising from residual gaze shifts. Conversely, it is possible that ADAN‐related potentials contaminate the horizontal electrooculogram (HEOG), via volume conduction. To evaluate these possibilities, we used high‐resolution infrared eye tracking while recording EEG and HEOG in a cued spatial‐attention task. We found that, after conventional ERP and HEOG preprocessing exclusions, small but systematic residual gaze shifts in the cued direction can remain, as revealed by the infrared measure. Nevertheless, by using this measure for more stringent exclusion of small gaze shifts, we confirmed that reliable ADAN components remain for preparatory spatial attention in the absence of any systematic gaze shifts toward the cued side.
Developing a Monitoring Program for Invertebrates: Guidelines and a Case Study
Authors: ROHR JASON R. , MAHAN CAROLYN G. , KIM KE CHUNG
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Invertebrates provide the majority of ecosystem services; thus, it is important that they be inventoried, monitored, and protected. Nevertheless, inventories, monitoring, and management generally focus on vertebrates and flowering plants. Consequently, there are few guidelines or case studies for invertebrates. We present a procedure for developing a monitoring program for species‐rich invertebrates that entails (1) characterizing the community; (2) identifying surrogates for biodiversity; and (3) establishing efficient methods to monitor surrogates and any ecologically important or sensitive taxa. We used these procedures, biodiversity‐based statistical advances, and a survey of arthropods to develop a monitoring plan for the forests of Shenandoah National Park, Virginia (U.S.A.). Our case study revealed that mixed hardwood and hemlock forests had significantly different compositions of arthropods in their soil and understory strata. Of the 10 orders tested Coleoptera and Hymenoptera were the only two to pass most of the five surrogate tests, and their combination improved predictions of overall arthropod diversity. Because arthropods represent the majority of macroscopic species in most ecosystems, the ability of this assemblage to predict overall arthropod diversity makes it a powerful surrogate. Of the 11 collecting methods used, the beat‐sheet method was the most efficient for monitoring this surrogate assemblage. To complement this coarse‐filter approach to monitoring at‐risk, invasive, or other important taxa (fine filter), we used ordination analyses to match 66 taxa with the methods that most effectively sampled them. Our methods serve as a model for developing an invertebrate monitoring plan and should facilitate linking such monitoring with ecosystem functions and management.
POLYPHASIC STUDY OF ANTARCTIC CYANOBACTERIAL STRAINS1
Authors: Taton Arnaud , Grubisic Stana , Ertz Damien , Hodgson Dominic A. , Piccardi Raffaella , Biondi Natascia , Tredici Mario R. , Mainini Mariangela , Losi Daniele , Marinelli Flavia , Wilmotte Annick
Published: November 2006

We isolated 59 strains of cyanobacteria from the benthic microbial mats of 23 Antarctic lakes, from five locations in two regions, in order to characterize their morphological and genotypic diversity. On the basis of their morphology, the cyanobacteria were assigned to 12 species that included four Antarctic endemic taxa. Sequences of the ribosomal RNA gene were determined for 56 strains. In general, the strains closely related at the 16S rRNA gene level belonged to the same morphospecies. Nevertheless, divergences were observed concerning the diversity in terms of species richness, novelty, and geographical distribution. For the 56 strains, 21 operational taxonomic units (OTUs, defined as groups of partial 16S rRNA gene sequences with more than 97.5% similarity) were found, including nine novel and three exclusively Antarctic OTUs. Sequences of Petalonema cf. involvens and Chondrocystis sp. were determined for the first time. The internally transcribed spacer (ITS) between the 16S and the 23S rRNA genes was sequenced for 33 strains, and similar groupings were observed with the 16S rRNA gene and the ITS, even when the strains were derived from different lakes and regions. In addition, 48 strains were screened for antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities, and 17 strains were bioactive against the gram‐positive Staphylococcus aureus, or the fungi Aspergillus fumigatus and Cryptococcus neoformans. The bioactivities were not in coincidence with the phylogenetic relationships, but rather were specific to certain strains.
ACHNANTHIDIUM DOLOMITICUM SP. NOV. (BACILLARIOPHYTA) FROM OLIGOTROPHIC MOUNTAIN SPRINGS AND LAKES FED BY DOLOMITE AQUIFERS1
Authors: Cantonati Marco , Lange‐Bertalot Horst
Published: November 2006

A new benthic freshwater diatom, Achnanthidium dolomiticum sp. nov., was identified from light and scanning electron micrographs. The most characteristic morphological features are a narrow, but distinctive fascia; a filiform raphe with narrowly spaced central ends and a very narrow and straight axial area on the raphe valve; a convex‐shaped rapheless valve; the length/width ratio; and valve outline. The new species, has been found so far to be mainly epiphytic on bryophytes and aquatic vascular plants in carbonate springs and lakes of the Italian Alps. The environmental preferences of the new species, as assessed by the comparative analysis of these sites, appear to be quite distinctive. These freshwater habitats are fed by drainage basins dominated by dolomite lithology with medium mineralization, are oligotrophic, and are affected by seasonal desiccation.
A Mile‐Wide Gap: The Evolution of Hispanic Political Emergence in the Deep South*
Authors: Bullock Charles S. , Hood M. V.
Published: November 2006

Objective. Prior to the 1990s, the size of the Hispanic population in the Deep South was negligible. Since that time, states in this region have experienced an explosive growth in members of this ethnic group.

Methods. Georgia and the Carolinas are among five states that maintain registration and turnout files by ethnicity. We make use of these political data in conjunction with demographic information from the Census to create a snapshot of Hispanic political emergence in the southeast.

Results. A sizable gap exists between the size of the Hispanic population in the southeast and levels of political participation on the part of Latinos. Much of the explanation for this observation centers on the fact that the bulk of recent migration to the region has been by Hispanics who are not U.S. citizens. Participation rates among Hispanic citizens, however, were also found to lag behind those of other racial groups in the region.

Conclusions. Although it is likely that Hispanics will become a sizable political force in the Deep South, it should be noted that the gulf between latent political influence and actual political power may take quite some time to close.
The Portfolio Choices of Hispanic Couples*
Authors: Cobb‐Clark Deborah A. , Hildebrand Vincent A.
Published: November 2006

Objectives. The objective of this article is to assess the overall wealth level and portfolio choices of Hispanic families.

Methods. We use Survey of Income and Program Participation (SIPP) data to first estimate the determinants of net worth. Conditioning on overall wealth levels, we then estimate a model of asset portfolios.

Results. Our results reveal that Hispanic couples as a group are less wealthy than otherwise similar white couples, although there is substantial variation across Hispanic‐origin groups. Accounting for these wealth disparities, Hispanic couples hold less financial wealth, but more real estate and business equity than do white couples.

Conclusions. Much of the disparity in portfolio choices of Hispanics as a group relative to whites appears to stem from the fact that they are less wealthy. At the same time, it is important to separately analyze the wealth position of distinct Hispanic‐origin groups.
Substrate Ablation in Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: PAPPONE CARLO , SANTINELLI VINCENZO
Published: November 2006

From the time catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) was first reported, of the two dominant approaches for AF ablation, only pulmonary vein (PV) isolation has been modified, while circumferential pulmonary vein ablation (CPVA) as performed by our group in Milan has remained substantially unmodified. In fact, PV isolation as initially performed by Haissaguerre et al. has undergone rapid evolution toward substrate modification with significantly higher success rates without major complications. Modification of such technique was due to modification of the substrate. It is now evident that substrate modification is indeed crucial for curing AF particularly in patients with long‐lasting or permanent AF. Indeed, to achieve good outcomes, any ablation technique should simultaneously include elimination of all triggers associated with modification of both anatomic and autonomic substrate, as we started to do many years ago by performing CPVA.
Can Mapping and Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation Be Guided by Frequency Analysis of Fibrillatory Waves?
Authors: LIN YENN‐JIANG , TAI CHING‐TAI , CHEN SHIH‐ANN
Published: November 2006

Conventional atrial fibrillation (AF) mapping is limited by the interpretation of the varied and complex time‐domain signals throughout the atria. Frequency‐domain signals provide a feasible method to analyze the temporal and regional distribution of atrial activation during AF. This helps us learn more about the mechanisms of AF. The maintenance of AF, whether paroxysmal or persistent, depends on rapid activities in part of the atrium. These AF sources activate atria at very high frequencies and result in fibrillatory conductions. This article focuses on the regional frequency distribution and the spectral morphology in different types of AF. In patients with paroxysmal AF from pulmonary veins, the highest frequency drivers are located around the arrhythmogenic vein with a left atrium (LA)‐to‐right atrium (RA) frequency gradient. Conversely, in patients with paroxysmal AF from superior vena cava and persistent AF, the LA‐to‐RA frequency gradient may not be evident. As the figure demonstrates, the ablation strategy guided by frequency analysis may be a better way for finding the critical substrate for the maintenance of AF.
Langerhans cell density and high‐grade vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia in women with human immunodeficiency virus infection
Authors: Taube Janis M. , Nichols Andrew D. , Bornman Lynette S. , Bornman Daniel M. , Jackson Jay Brooks
Published: November 2006

Background:  Decreased numbers of Langerhans cells (LCs) in the cervix of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐infected women are believed to contribute to the progression of human papilloma virus (HPV)‐related squamous intraepithelial lesions. However, this impairment of local immunity has not been well studied in the vulva. The objective of this study was to compare the S100+ LC density in high‐grade vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN) in HIV‐positive and HIV‐negative women.

Methods:  HIV‐positive and HIV‐negative patients with high‐grade VIN, 48 (55%) and 40 (45%), respectively, were identified by retrospective chart review. Smoking status of patients was noted. The mean LC count per high‐power field (HPF) was determined using S100 immunohistochemical staining. In situ hybridization was performed to detect HPV DNA types 16 and 18.

Results:  Mean S100+ LC counts for HIV‐positive and HIV‐negative patients were 5.82 and 9.86 per HPF, respectively (p = 0.0026). LC counts in HIV‐positive and HIV‐negative patients were compared between smoking and nonsmoking groups (HIV‐positive p = 0.4812, HIV‐negative p = 0.2821).

Conclusions:  HIV‐positive patients with high‐grade VIN had significantly lower LC counts compared with HIV‐negative patients. This suggests that local vulvar immunity as evaluated by S100+ LCs is impaired in HIV‐positive women, possibly contributing to the progression of HPV‐related vulvar lesions.
Huntingtin inclusion bodies are iron‐dependent centers of oxidative events
Authors: Firdaus Wance J. J. , Wyttenbach Andreas , Giuliano Paola , Kretz‐Remy Carole , Currie R. William , Arrigo André‐Patrick
Published: November 2006

Recently, we reported that the transient expression of huntingtin exon1 polypeptide containing polyglutamine tracts of various sizes (httEx1‐polyQ) in cell models of Huntington disease generated an oxidative stress whose intensity was CAG repeat expansion‐dependent. Here, we have analyzed the intracellular localization of the oxidative events generated by the httEx1‐polyQ polypeptides. Analysis of live COS‐7 cells as well as neuronal SK‐N‐SH and PC12 cells incubated with hydroethidine or dichlorofluorescein diacetate revealed oxidation of these probes at the level of the inclusion bodies formed by httEx1‐polyQ polypeptides. The intensity and frequency of the oxidative events among the inclusions were CAG repeat expansion‐dependent. Electron microscopic analysis of cell sections revealed the presence of oxidation‐dependent morphologic alterations in the vicinity of httEx1‐polyQ inclusion bodies. Moreover, a high level of oxidized proteins was recovered in partially purified inclusions. We also report that the iron chelator deferroxamine altered the structure, localization and oxidative potential of httEx1‐polyQ inclusion bodies. Hence, despite the fact that the formation of inclusion bodies may represent a defense reaction of the cell to eliminate httEx1 mutant polypeptide, this phenomenon appears inherent to the generation of iron‐dependent oxidative events that can be deleterious to the cell.
Sequencing‐based analysis of the HLA‐DPB1 polymorphism in Nu ethnic group of south‐west China
Authors: Hu W. , Wang J. , Wang B. , Lu J. , Li H. , Zhang J. , Cun Y. , Tang W. , Xiao C.
Published: November 2006

In the present study, DNA typing for HLA‐DPB1 was performed using polymerase chain reaction–sequencing‐based typing method in 72 randomly selected Nu ethnic individuals inhabiting the Yunnan province of south‐west China. Among the 12 detected DPB1 alleles, the most frequent was DPB1*1301, with the percentage of 20.83%, followed by DPB1*0501 (19.44%), DPB1*040101 (16.67%) and DPB1*2801 (9.72%). The allele DPB1*1501 was found for the first time in the Chinese population. Neighbour‐joining showed that the Nu ethnic minority belonged to East Asian cluster and was most closely related to Lisu, being consistent with the historical records. In addition, the results obtained in this study will also provide useful information on organ transplantation, forensic investigations and disease association studies.
New method to stimulate the onset of Bombus terrestris (Hymenoptera: Apidae) rearing: Using worker helpers in the presence of frozen pupae
Authors: KWON Yong Jung , THAN Kyi Kyi , SUH Sang Jae
Published: November 2006

The failure of bumblebee queens to enthusiastically start a colony under laboratory conditions may be due to lack of oviposition during an experiment, a long delay in oviposition from the termination of hibernation, and failure to rear a large first brood. In the present study, the use of frozen male pupae to start the colony with the assistance of bumblebee workers rather than fresh, young, male pupae was investigated under controlled room temperature and humidity conditions. The period of initiation of the colony decreased with an increase in the number of worker helpers from one to six. The period was as short as 3.9 days in the presence of six worker helpers. Second and third broods also started earlier with the help of workers. The rate of first worker production per egg cup was double that of the normal method (i.e. without worker helpers). Egg eating behavior of the queen was not found in the first brood if more than two workers helped the development of the larvae. Four worker helpers were found to be sufficient, as they could produce 100% colony foundation and 91.46% first worker production colonies. This study showed that using frozen old pupae is a good stimulator for colony foundation in the presence of four bumblebee worker helpers.
The Quest for Remyelination: A New Role for Neurotrophins and Their Receptors
Authors: Rosenberg Sheila S. , Ng Benjamin K. , Chan Jonah R.
Published: November 2006

The formation of myelin is dependent on a reciprocal and intimate relationship between neurons and the myelin‐forming glia. Recently, the neurotrophin family of growth factors has been shown to regulate the complex cell–cell interactions that control myelination. Neurotrophins and their receptors influence myelin formation via two distinct mechanisms, either by acting on the neurons, changing the axonal signals that control myelination, or by acting directly on the myelin‐forming glia. In this review, we will discuss research highlighting the ability of neurotrophins to both promote and inhibit the myelination process. As reflected in the work presented here, these effects are dependent on a delicate balance of which neurotrophins are expressed, and what receptors are activated. Additionally, we examine an emerging model in which the growth factors that promote the early survival and differentiation of particular sets of neurons later play important roles as key regulators in glial development. Characterizing the temporal expression and the cellular targets of neurotrophins, both during development and after injury, represents a pivotal step in developing a greater understanding of the myelination process, contributing to the development of effective treatments for demyelinating conditions. We conclude this review by discussing the potential for neurotrophins as therapeutics in the quest for remyelination.
Turbulent Heat Transfer in an Enclosure With a Horizontal Permeable Plate in the Middle
Authors: Braga Edimilson J. , de Lemos Marcelo J. S.
Published: November 2006

Turbulent natural convection in a vertical two-dimensional square cavity, isothermally heated from below and cooled at the upper surface, is numerically analyzed using the finite volume method. The enclosure has a thin horizontal porous obstruction, made of a highly porous material and extremely permeable, located at the cavity midheight. Governing equations are written in terms of primitive variables and are recast into a general form. For empty cavities, no discrepancies result for the Nusselt number when laminar and turbulent model solutions are compared for Rayleigh numbers up to 107. Also, in general the porous obstruction decreases the heat transfer across the heated walls showing overall lower Nusselt numbers when compared with those without the porous obstruction. However, the presence of a porous plate in the cavity seems to force an earlier separation from laminar to turbulence model solutions due to higher generation rates of turbulent kinetic energy into the porous matrix.
The Role of Turbulence Models for Predicting a Thermal Stratification
Authors: Choi Seok-Ki , Kim Seong-O
Published: November 2006

A numerical study of the evaluation of turbulence models for predicting the thermal stratification phenomenon is presented. The tested models are the elliptic blending turbulence model (EBM), the two-layer model, the shear stress transport model (SST), and the elliptic relaxation model (V2-f). These four turbulence models are applied to the prediction of a thermal stratification in an upper plenum of a liquid metal reactor experimented at the Japan Nuclear Cooperation (JNC). The EBM and V2-f models predict properly the steep gradient of the temperature at the interface of the cold and hot regions that is observed in the experimental data, and the EBM and V2-f models have the capability of predicting the temporal oscillation of the temperature. The two-layer and SST models predict the diffusive temperature gradient at the interface of a thermal stratification and fail to predict a temporal oscillation of the temperature. In general, the EBM predicts best the thermal stratification phenomenon in the upper plenum of the liquid metal reactor.
Characterization of fluorine-modified organosilicate glass
Authors: Liu Chi-Wen , Wang Ying-Lang , Juang Yungder , JangJean Shiuh-Ko , Lee Wen-His
Published: November 2006

In this study, fluorine-modified organosilicate glass (F-OSG) films were deposited by using a plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition technique on 3MS∕O2∕SiF4 mixtures to change deposition temperatures. The films were characterized by using reflectometer data, Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy, and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The authors found that film deposition rates and fluorine contents in the F-OSG films decreased while the deposition temperature increased; moreover, negative apparent activation energies for film deposition were also observed, suggesting a deposition process dominated by surface adsorption/desorption reactions. In addition, the authors also investigated the effects of Si–C and Si–F bonding on the dielectric breakdown and leakage mechanism of the F-OSG films. They found that high and two-step breakdown voltage of the F-OSG films relative to that of the OSG films can be highlighted as a consequence of the structural change accompanied by the incorporation of fluorine, and hence the leakage current behavior of F-OSG in low field conduction is well explained by the Schottky emission.
Vapor phase reactions in polymerization plasma for divinylsiloxane-bis-benzocyclobutene film deposition
Authors: Kinoshita Keizo , Nakano Akinori , Kawahara Jun , Kunimi Nobutaka , Hayashi Yoshihiro , Kiso Osamu , Saito Naoaki , Nakamura Keiji , Kikkawa Takamaro
Published: November 2006

Vapor phase reactions in plasma polymerization of divinylsiloxane-bis-benzocyclobutene (DVS-BCB) low-k film depositions on 300mm wafers were studied using mass spectrometry, in situ Fourier transform infrared, and a surface wave probe. Polymerization via Diels-Alder cycloaddition reaction was identified by the detection of the benzocyclohexene group. Hydrogen addition and methyl group desorption were also detected in DVS-BCB monomer and related large molecules. The dielectric constant k of plasma polymerized DVS-BCB with a plasma source power range up to 250W was close to ∼2.7 of thermally polymerized DVS-BCB, and increased gradually over 250W. The electron density at 250W was about 1.5×1010cm−3. The increase of the k value at higher power was explained by the decrease of both large molecular species via multistep dissociation and incorporation of silica components into the polymer. It was found that the reduction of electron density as well as precursor residence time is important for the plasma polymerization process to prevent the excess dissociation of the precursor.
Influence of background gas pressure charging potential and target distance on the spot size ablated by single pulsed electron beam
Authors: Aga Roberto S. , Cox Chase , Ueda Akira , Jackson Enrique , Collins W. E. , Mu Richard
Published: November 2006

The area of spot ablated by single pulsed electron beam has been measured as a function of pulsed electron deposition (PED) parameters. These parameters are background gas pressure, charging potential and target distance. A 50 nm thick film of silver on glass is used as ablation target in order to create a clear spot that can be measured. The spot area is found to reflect the power density of the pulsed electron beam and it can be varied by adjusting the PED parameters. These results are useful in the application of PED for material fabrication.
New design for indentation measurement using fiber Bragg grating
Authors: Chen Jun , Kahrizi Mojtaba
Published: November 2006

A new methodology to characterize mechanical properties of materials using a fiber Bragg grating is reported. A theory for the new technique to measure indentation is developed and experimental results performed by the technique are reported. The measurement range, displacement sensitivity, penetration depth, and forces against the fiber and the sample are analyzed. The load-depth curve of a typical indentation measurement was obtained. The technique has dual sensing abilities for applied force and the corresponding displacement, and it is shown that the method can be used as an instrument to characterize material surfaces. The dynamic measurement, small size sensing, simple measurement configuration, linear responsive behavior, and easy interpretation are some of the characteristics of this design.
Efficiency of time-reversed acoustics for nonlinear damage detection in solids
Authors: Gliozzi Antonio S. , Griffa Michele , Scalerandi Marco
Published: November 2006

Time-reversed acoustics (TRA) has been developed in the last few years as a powerful tool for several applications, based on the theoretical properties emerging from the time reversal invariance of the wave equation. TRA is expected to be a good basis for the development of imaging techniques in the field of nondestructive evaluation. For this purpose, however, data processing is necessary to discriminate between images due to defects (in general nonlinear scatterers) and images due to linear inclusions, boundaries, etc. We propose here an approach based on the filtering of the time signals. The image of the scatterer is obtained through numerical simulations of the back propagation in a fictitious reference specimen. We validate the approach using the inversion of synthetic data. We also estimate the robustness of the procedure in the presence of constraints that can occur in any experimental procedure.
Gaussian beams and Legendre polynomials as invariants of the time reversal operator for a large rigid cylinder
Authors: Aubry Alexandre , de Rosny Julien , Minonzio Jean-Gabriel , Prada Claire , Fink Mathias
Published: November 2006

The DORT method (French acronym for decomposition of the time reversal operator) is an active remote sensing technique using an array of antennas for the detection and localization of scatterers. This method is based on the singular value decomposition of the interelement response matrix. In this paper an analytical expression of the singular vectors due to the reflection from a large rigid cylinder is provided. Depending on the array aperture, two asymptotic regimes are described. It is shown that the singular vectors correspond to Hermite-Gaussian modes for large apertures and Legendre polynomials for small ones. Using perturbation theory, the corresponding singular values are deduced. Theoretical predictions are in good agreement with experimental results.
Borrelia burgdorferi
Spirochetes That Harbor Only a Portion of the lp28-1 Plasmid Elicit Antibody Responses Detectable with the C
6
Test for Lyme Disease
Authors: Embers Monica E. , Wormser Gary P. , Schwartz Ira , Martin Dale S. , Philipp Mario T.
Published: November 2006

Detection of antibody to C
6
, a peptide that reproduces the sequence of the sixth invariable region within the central domain of the VlsE protein of
Borrelia burgdorferi
, is used currently for the serologic diagnosis of Lyme disease in humans.
B. burgdorferi
isolates taken from infected humans can be categorized into specific genetic subtypes (designated RST1, -2, and -3) by restriction fragment length polymorphisms in the 16S to 23S rRNA spacer sequence. Many of these, usually categorized as RST2, retain only segments of the linear plasmid lp28-1, which encodes VlsE. The VlsE genetic region is retained, but altered expression of this molecule could affect diagnosis by the C
6
enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Serum samples from patients infected with each of the three genotypes and from mice infected with three RST2 isolates were tested with the C
6
ELISA. Such isolates elicited marked C
6
responses in infected mice. The sensitivity of C
6
antibody detection in patients infected with RST2 spirochetes was statistically indistinguishable from detection of RST1 and RST3 infections. These findings demonstrate that diagnosis by C
6
ELISA remains effective for infection with all
B. burgdorferi
genotypes, including those with incomplete lp28-1 plasmids.
Crystal Structure and Mechanism of TraM2, a Second Quorum-Sensing Antiactivator of
Agrobacterium tumefaciens
Strain A6
Authors: Chen Guozhou , Wang Chao , Fuqua Clay , Zhang Lian-Hui , Chen Lingling
Published: November 2006

Quorum sensing is a community behavior that bacteria utilize to coordinate a variety of population density-dependent biological functions. In
Agrobacterium tumefaciens
, quorum sensing regulates the replication and conjugative transfer of the tumor-inducing (Ti) plasmid from pathogenic strains to nonpathogenic derivatives. Most of the quorum-sensing regulatory proteins are encoded within the Ti plasmid. Among these, TraR is a LuxR-type transcription factor playing a key role as the quorum-sensing signal receptor, and TraM is an antiactivator that antagonizes TraR through the formation of a stable oligomeric complex. Recently, a second TraM homologue called TraM2, not encoded on the Ti plasmid of
A. tumefaciens
A6, was identified, in addition to a copy on the Ti plasmid. In this report, we have characterized TraM2 and its interaction with TraR and solved its crystal structure to 2.1 Å. Like TraM, TraM2 folds into a helical bundle and exists as homodimer. TraM2 forms a stable complex (

K
d

= 8.6 nM) with TraR in a 1:1 binding ratio, a weaker affinity than that of TraM for TraR. Structural analysis and biochemical studies suggest that protein stability may account for the difference between TraM2 and TraM in their binding affinities to TraR and provide a structural basis for L54 in promoting structural stability of TraM.
Fast DNA Serotyping of
Escherichia coli
by Use of an Oligonucleotide Microarray
Authors: Ballmer Karin , Korczak Bozena M. , Kuhnert Peter , Slickers Peter , Ehricht Ralf , Hächler Herbert
Published: November 2006

Classical antibody-based serotyping of
Escherichia coli
is an important method in diagnostic microbiology for epidemiological purposes, as well as for a rough virulence assessment. However, serotyping is so tedious that its use is restricted to a few reference laboratories. To improve this situation we developed and validated a genetic approach for serotyping based on the microarray technology. The genes encoding the O-antigen flippase (
wzx
) and the O-antigen polymerase (
wzy
) were selected as target sequences for the O antigen, whereas
fliC
and related genes, which code for the flagellar monomer, were chosen as representatives for the H phenotype. Starting with a detailed bioinformatic analysis and oligonucleotide design, an ArrayTube-based assay was established: a fast and robust DNA extraction method was coupled with a site-specific, linear multiplex labeling procedure and hybridization analysis of the biotinylated amplicons. The microarray contained oligonucleotide DNA probes, each in duplicate, representing 24 of the epidemiologically most relevant of the over 180 known O antigens (O antigens 4, 6 to 9, 15, 26, 52, 53, 55, 79, 86, 91, 101, 103, 104, 111, 113, 114, 121, 128, 145, 157, and 172) as well as 47 of the 53 different H antigens (H antigens 1 to 12, 14 to 16, 18 to 21, 23 to 34, 37 to 43, 45, 46, 48, 49, 51 to 54, and 56). Evaluation of the microarray with a set of defined strains representing all O and H serotypes covered revealed that it has a high sensitivity and a high specificity. All of the conventionally typed 24 O groups and all of the 47 H serotypes were correctly identified. Moreover, strains which were nonmotile or nontypeable by previous serotyping assays yielded unequivocal results with the novel ArrayTube assay, which proved to be a valuable alternative to classical serotyping, allowing processing of single colonies within a single working day.