bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gene expression in the cos region of the Streptomyces temperate actinophage øC31
Authors: Howet Christine W. , Smith Margaret C. M.
Published: June 2009

A transcription map of a 5.12 kb region containing the cos ends of actinophage øC31 was determined using RNA prepared from induced and uninduced cultures of the temperature-sensitive lysogen, Streptomyces coelicolor A3(2) (øC31cts1). In induced cultures, RNA synthesis was detected only late in the lytic cycle. A late operon initiated downstream of the int gene on the righthand end of the genome traversed the cos ends and extended at least 3.6 kb along the left-hand end. Shorter, possibly processed, mRNAs were also present. The map was superimposed on the DNA sequence of 2.8 kb of the region, part of which had been determined previously and part of which is presented here. The late-expressed transcripts contained a tRNAThr-like gene and four ORFs (1, 2, 3 and 5) detected on the basis of codon bias. Analysis of the putative protein products showed that one of the ORFs could encode a lysis protein and at least one may be involved in DNA maturation. Transcription mapping of RNA from uninduced cultures demonstrated a 620 nt transcript, xRNA 1, of ORF6. So far this is the only gene in øC31 found to be expressed right to left with respect to the standard map of øC31; its function during lysogenic growth could not be deduced from database searches.
Performance of three minimally invasive cardiac output monitoring systems
Authors: De Wilde R. B. P. , Geerts B. F. , Cui J. , Van Den Berg P. C. M. , Jansen J. R. C.
Published: June 2009

We evaluated cardiac output (CO) using three new methods – the auto‐calibrated FloTrac–Vigileo (COed), the non‐calibrated Modelflow (COmf ) pulse contour method and the ultra‐sound HemoSonic system (COhs) – with thermodilution (COtd) as the reference. In 13 postoperative cardiac surgical patients, 104 paired CO values were assessed before, during and after four interventions: (i) an increase of tidal volume by 50%; (ii) a 10 cm H2O increase in positive end‐expiratory pressure; (iii) passive leg raising and (iv) head up position. With the pooled data the difference (bias (2SD)) between COed and COtd, COmf and COtd and COhs and COtd was 0.33 (0.90), 0.30 (0.69) and −0.41 (1.11) l.min−1, respectively. Thus, Modelflow had the lowest mean squared error, suggesting that it had the best performance. COed significantly overestimates changes in cardiac output while COmf and COhs values are not significantly different from those of COtd. Directional changes in cardiac output by thermodilution were detected with a high score by all three methods.
Regional anaesthesia elastomeric pump performance after a single use and subsequent refill: a laboratory study
Authors: Grant C. R. K. , Fredrickson M. J.
Published: June 2009

Ambulatory local anaesthetic delivery systems are often limited by a short effective duration of infusion. Prolonging nerve blockade by substituting a new pump as recommended by the manufacturers, represents a substantial consumable item cost ($US300–500). We therefore evaluated the flow delivery performance of 31 single model elastomeric devices (all with a 2 ml.h−1 background and 5 ml every hour bolus capability) that had been filled, used in clinical practice and then refilled in the laboratory. For the second infusion, there was a pattern of over‐infusion (< 10 ml.h−1) in the first hour; however, all pumps depreciated to < 150% of predicted by the second hour. The subsequent performance of all pumps was not only within safe limits, but also predominantly within the range (background infusion ± 15%, bolus +10/−20%) specified by the manufacturer for primary infusion. We conclude that this elastomeric regional anaesthesia pump design performs satisfactorily after having been refilled following a single previous use.
CERBERUS, a novel U‐box protein containing WD‐40 repeats, is required for formation of the infection thread and nodule development in the legume–Rhizobium symbiosis
Authors: Yano Koji , Shibata Satoshi , Chen Wen‐Li , Sato Shusei , Kaneko Takakazu , Jurkiewicz Anna , Sandal Niels , Banba Mari , Imaizumi‐Anraku Haruko , Kojima Tomoko , Ohtomo Ryo , Szczyglowski Krzysztof , Stougaard Jens , Tabata Satoshi , Hayashi Makoto , Kouchi Hiroshi , Umehara Yosuke
Published: June 2009

Endosymbiotic infection of legume plants by Rhizobium bacteria is initiated through infection threads (ITs) which are initiated within and penetrate from root hairs and deliver the endosymbionts into nodule cells. Despite recent progress in understanding the mutual recognition and early symbiotic signaling cascades in host legumes, the molecular mechanisms underlying bacterial infection processes and successive nodule organogenesis are still poorly understood. We isolated a novel symbiotic mutant of Lotus japonicus, cerberus, which shows defects in IT formation and nodule organogenesis. Map‐based cloning of the causal gene allowed us to identify the CERBERUS gene, which encodes a novel protein containing a U‐box domain and WD‐40 repeats. CERBERUS expression was detected in the roots and nodules, and was enhanced after inoculation of Mesorhizobium loti. Strong expression was detected in developing nodule primordia and the infected zone of mature nodules. In cerberus mutants, Rhizobium colonized curled root hair tips, but hardly penetrated into root hair cells. The occasional ITs that were formed inside the root hair cells were mostly arrested within the epidermal cell layer. Nodule organogenesis was aborted prematurely, resulting in the formation of a large number of small bumps which contained no endosymbiotic bacteria. These phenotypic and genetic analyses, together with comparisons with other legume mutants with defects in IT formation, indicate that CERBERUS plays a critical role in the very early steps of IT formation as well as in growth and differentiation of nodules.
Identification of cis‐localization elements of the maize 10‐kDa δ‐zein and their use in targeting RNAs to specific cortical endoplasmic reticulum subdomains
Authors: Washida Haruhiko , Sugino Aya , Kaneko Sachiyo , Crofts Naoko , Sakulsingharoj Chotipa , Kim Dongwook , Choi Sang‐Bong , Hamada Shigeki , Ogawa Masahiro , Wang Changlin , Esen Asim , Higgins Thomas J.V. , Okita Thomas W.
Published: June 2009

The RNAs for the storage proteins of rice (Oryza sativa), prolamines and glutelins, which are stored as inclusions in the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and storage vacuoles, respectively, are targeted by specific cis‐localization elements to distinct subdomains of the cortical ER. Glutelin RNA has one or more cis‐localization elements (zip codes) at the 3′ end of the RNA, whereas prolamine has two cis‐elements; one located in the 5′ end of the coding sequence and a second residing in the 3′‐untranslated region (UTR). We had earlier demonstrated that the RNAs for the maize zeins (‘prolamine’ class) are localized to the spherical protein body ER (PB‐ER) in developing maize endosperm. As the PB‐ER localization of the 10‐kDa δ‐zein RNA is maintained in developing rice seeds, we determined the number and proximate location of their cis‐localization elements by expressing GFP fusions containing various zein RNA sequences in transgenic rice and analyzing their spatial distribution on the cortical ER by in situ RT‐PCR and confocal microscopy. Four putative cis‐localization elements were identified; three in the coding sequences and one in the 3′‐UTR. Two of these zip codes are required for restricted localization to the PB‐ER. Using RNA targeting determinants we show, by mis‐targeting the storage protein RNAs from their normal destination on the cortical ER, that the coded proteins are redirected from their normal site of deposition. Targeting of RNA to distinct cortical ER subdomains may be the underlying basis for the variable use of the ER lumen or storage vacuole as the final storage deposition site of storage proteins among flowering plant species.
Sensitivity of Turbutester and Accuhaler tester in asthmatic children and adolescents
Authors: Manuyakorn Wiparat , Direkwattanachai Chalerat , Benjaponpitak Suwat , Kamchaisatian Wasu , Sasisakulporn Cherapat , Teawsomboonkit Wanlapa
Published: June 2009

Background:  Dry powder inhalers (DPI) are alternative devices for delivering medication for treatment of asthma. The amount of drug delivery to the lungs is directly influenced by peak inspiratory flow rate (PIFR). A minimum PIFR of −30 L/min is needed for the Turbuhaler and Accuhaler.

Methods:  In order to evaluate the sensitivity of the Turbutester and Accuhaler tester in detecting the minimum and optimum PIFR for the Turbuhaler and Accuhaler in asthmatic children, PIFR was measured using the In‐Check Dial through the internal resistance of the Turbuhaler and Accuhaler and compared according to the child's ability to make a whistle sound via both testers.

Results:  A total of 259 asthmatic children were studied: 20 pre‐school children, aged 5–6 years; 174 school‐age children, aged 7–12 years; and 65 adolescents, aged 13–18 years. The sensitivity of the Turbutester and Accuhaler tester to detect optimum PIFR were 98.40% and 97.2%, respectively. In the comparison among age groups, the sensitivity of the Accuhaler tester to detect optimum or minimum PIFR for the Accuhaler was 95%, 97.7% and 95.4%, respectively. The sensitivity of the Turbutester to detect optimum PIFR for the Turbuhaler was 94.4%, 98.8% and 98.5%, respectively. The sensitivity of the Turbutester to detect minimum PIFR for the Turbuhaler was 94.7%, 100% and 100%, respectively. There were no significant differences in percentage of having optimum or minimum PIFR among asthma severity and current device usage in all age groups.

Conclusions:  Most children aged at least 5 years could generate enough PIFR to use dry powder inhaler devices. Both the Turbutester and Accuhaler tester were found to have high sensitivity in detecting optimum and minimum required PIFR.
Research Review: A new perspective on attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder: emotion dysregulation and trait models
Authors: Martel Michelle M.
Published: June 2009

Attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common example of developmental psychopathology that might be able to be better understood by taking an emotion regulation perspective. As discussed herein, emotion regulation is understood to consist of two component processes, emotion (e.g., positive and negative emotionality) and regulation (e.g., effortful and reactive forms of control), which interact with one another at the behavioral level. Review of work to date suggests that the heterogeneous behavioral category of ADHD may encompass two distinct kinds of inputs: inattentive ADHD symptoms may be primarily associated with breakdowns in the regulation side, whereas hyperactivity‐impulsive ADHD symptoms may be associated with breakdowns in the emotionality side. It is argued that breakdowns in control may be a signature for ADHD specifically, while increased negative emotionality may serve as non‐specific risk factors for disruptive behavior disorders, explaining their comorbidity. Increased understanding of the interrelations and interactions of component emotion regulation processes may elucidate developmental, sex, and neural mechanisms of ADHD and associated comorbid disruptive disorders.
Tripterine prevents endothelial barrier dysfunction by inhibiting endogenous peroxynitrite formation
Authors: Wu Feng , Han Min , Wilson John X
Published: June 2009

Background and purpose:  Tripterine is an inhibitor of heat shock protein 90 and an active component of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F., which is used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. We hypothesized that tripterine inhibits endogenous peroxynitrite formation and thereby prevents endothelial barrier dysfunction.

Experimental approach:  Effects of tripterine were investigated on endothelial barrier function, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phasphate (NADPH) oxidase activity, 3‐nitrotyrosine formation, protein phosphatase type 2A (PP2A) activity, activation of extracellular‐regulated kinase (ERK), c‐Jun terminal kinase (JNK) and Janus kinase (Jak2), and degradation of IκB in microvascular endothelial cells exposed to pro‐inflammatory stimulus [lipopolysaccharide (LPS) + interferon γ (IFNγ)] and on vascular permeability in air pouches of mice injected with LPS + IFNγ.

Key results:  LPS + IFNγ caused an increase in monolayer permeability, induction of iNOS and NADPH oxidase type 1 (Nox1) proteins, formation of superoxide, nitric oxide and 3‐nitrotyrosine, and increase in PP2A activity in endothelial cells. These effects of LPS + IFNγ were diminished by tripterine (50–200 nM). Further, LPS + IFNγ‐induced expression of iNOS and Nox1 was attenuated by the mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase 1/2 (MEK1/2) inhibitor PD98059, the JNK inhibitor SP600125, the Jak2 inhibitor AG490 and the NFκB inhibitor MG132, but not by the p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase inhibitor SB203580. LPS + IFNγ stimulated phosphorylation of ERK, JNK and Jak2, and degradation of IκB, but only Jak2 phosphorylation was sensitive to tripterine (50–200 nM). Further, tripterine diminished the increased vascular permeability in inflamed air pouches.

Conclusion and implications:  Our results indicate that, by preventing Jak2‐dependent induction of iNOS and Nox1, tripterine inhibits peroxynitrite precursor synthesis, attenuates the increased activity of PP2A and consequently protects endothelial barrier function.
Rapid Fluid Extraction with the Gambro Ultradiffuser®
Authors: Lynggaard Folmer , Nielsen Bent
Published: June 2009

Four patients were given fourteen treatments with the Gambro Ultradiffuser®. One hour of ultrafiltration without dialysate and with negative pressure on the dialysate side was followed by four hours of dialysis with negligible transmembrane pressure (TMP). Mean fluid removal was 2678 ml per ultrafiltration period and the mean ultrafiltration rate was 37 ml/min. During the dialysis period, TMP was about +30 mmHg giving an ultrafiltration rate of 4 ml/min. Pulse rate was unchanged. Hematocrit increased 3%, plasma protein increased 21% and plasma albumin increased 25%. Plasma values of potassium, sodium, urea, creatinine and osmolality were unchanged.

One patient experienced a reversible hearing loss during two ultrafiltration periods and two patients had severe, yet reversible, cardiac arrhythmias. One patient had hypertension during the ultrafiltration period. Rapid extraction of fluid up to 49 ml/min was possible. The mean mean arterial pressure was unchanged though it exhibited great variation and three patients developed side effects.
Intra‐Aortic Balloon Pumping: Theory and Practice Experience with 325 Patients
Authors: Igo Stephen R. , Hibbs C. Wayne , Trono Ruben , Fuqua John M. , Edmonds Charles H. , Leachman Catherine J. , Brewer M. Alan , Holub Daniel A. , Norman John C.
Published: June 2009

Intra‐aortic balloon pumping to support the failing circulation is now an accepted therapeutic modality. The device is simple. Insertion can be accomplished rapidly and efficiently in emergency rooms, coronary care units, cardiac catheterization suites and operating rooms, preoperatively, intraoperatively and postoperatively. The hemodynamic effects are immediate and predictable, and the accruing clinical results show increasing survival and hospital discharge rates. In these institutions, mechanical support of the circulation by this and more advanced methods has been formalized within the responsibility of a Circulatory Support Service.

The purpose of this Report is to summarize some observations and analyses which have been made during care of 325 consecutive postcardiotomy and/or postinfarction cardiogenic shock patients. Historical, theoretical, basic, and applied aspects and current results are included. Foremost are the straightforward concepts of considering the heart as a pump, the failing heart as a failing pump and intra‐aortic balloon pumping as a temporary intravascular, auxiliary pump, capable of stabilizing or reversing that failure if utilized early in its evolution.
Bioengineering Aspects of the Artificial Pancreas
Authors: Nałȩcz Maciej , Lewandowski Jan , Weryński Andrzej , Zawicki Ignacy
Published: June 2009

In this paper, results of work aimed at the development of artificial β‐cells are presented. An electrolytically driven pump is considered to be a proper device for insulin injection. The transient characteristics of the simplified version of such a pump make it suitable for application in open‐loop devices. Methods for electrical control of the injection rate of this pump for application in closed‐loop artificial β‐cells are given. An essential component of a closed‐loop artificial β‐cell is a glucose sensor. A modified version of the glucose sensor has been developed and its performance is described. Considerations of some control problems related to the artificial pancreas are briefly discussed.
Present Status of the Hemofiltration/Molecular Separation Artificial Kidney
Authors: Dorson William J. , Pizziconi Vincent B.
Published: June 2009

The hemofiltration/molecular separation (HFMS) artificial kidney concept, first proposed over a decade ago, involves continuous ultrafiltration from the blood stream followed by cleansing of the filtrate, with subsequent return to the body. Thus, the system is completely self‐contained and portable. During recent preclinical trials on nephrectomized canines, HFMS was better than hemodialysis (HD) in several important ways. First, the removal or clearance of middle molecules was better with 0.34 m2 HFMS than with 1 m2 HD. Significant phosphate clearance was achieved, and the removal rate for creatinine was the same as that for urea. This uniform clearance extends to even higher molecular weight solutes and could potentially result in improved patient response. It mimics the real kidney, whereas membrane‐limited dialysis undergoes a logarithmic decrease of clearance with molecular weight., This is due to the fact that solute transport through the membrane involves solution into its matrix followed by diffusion, and solute diffusivity decreases with molecular volume. In order to achieve this potential for hemofiltration‐based systems, however, there are stringent requirements on both the membrane and the plasma proteins allowed to accumulate on the membrane surface.
Dialysis/Hemofiltration in Schizophrenia: A Journey by Night and Cloud
Authors: Stephen Robert L. , Velick Sidney F. , Kablitz Carl , Grosser Bernard I.
Published: June 2009

Hypotheses for the etiology of schizophrenia are discussed and related to possible treatments utilizing artificial kidney systems. For hemofiltration particularly, a theoretical framework is presented for treatment planning. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of using rigid diagnostic criteria for patient selection.

Results are Reported on two “strict“ schizophrenic patients after a series of hemofiltration treatments. One patient showed no clinical improvement after seventeen treatments and died subsequently in a mountaineering accident. Though clinical improvement was noted in the second patient (22 treatments in four months), it is unjustifiable to attribute this solely to hemofiltration. Increased family and medical staff attention towards the patient is sufficient explanation for all changes noted in the patient's symptomatology. Chemical a‐nalyses so far have failed to detect any endorphins, normal or abnormal, in the hemofiltrates of either the two patients or two normal controls (sensitivity 30 pmol/L).
Biochemical, Hematological and Histological Changes in a Fulminant HeDatic Failure Rat Model for Ahificial Liver Assessment
Authors: Chirito Eduardo , Lister Colin , Chang Thomas M. S.
Published: June 2009

Galactosamine‐induced fulminant hepatic failure rats have been used as a model for statistical assessment of liver support systems. The present study Reports in detail the biochemical, hematological and histological changes in these animals. They have been used to study statistically the effects of ACAC charcoal hemoperfusion, cross‐circulation and liver perfusion on long‐term survival in fulminant hepatic failure.
The Microscopic Characterization of Multinucleated Giant Cells Formed on Polymeric Surfaces Perfused with Blood
Authors: White David C. , Trepman Elly , Kolobow Theodor , Shaffer D. Kent , Reddick Robert L. , Bowman Robert L.
Published: June 2009

Multinucleated, foreign body giant cells were formed by the fusion of blood monocytes on polymeric membranes perfused with blood during extended extracorporeal circulation. In the current study, heparinized blood, flowing in an arteriovenous shunt in a sheep, perfused polycarbonate, polypropylene and silicone rubber membranes of a recently developed bioartificial tissue culture system. The multinucleated giant cells were studied by light, scanning electron, and transmission electron microscopy, after membrane perfusion for periods of one to two weeks. The giant cells, which were the predominant cellular components of the blood‐polymer interface layer, contained from a few to more than one hundred nuclei and varied in diameter up to 400 μm. The cellular interaction with the three membrane types was similar, although fewer mono‐nuclear cells were observed adhering to the silicone rubber membrane. The presence or absence of mi‐cropores in the membranes had no effect on the formation of giant cells, nor did the presence of foreign tissue in culture behind the microporous membranes. High blood flow rates and chronic anticoa‐gulation with heparin permitted observation of this foreign body reaction of blood independent of thrombosis.
The Improving Hematologic Picture in Long‐Term Surviving Calves with Total Artificial Hearts
Authors: Kolff Jacob , Hershgold Edward J. , Hadfield Cathie , Olsen Donald B. , Lawson John , Kolff Willem J.
Published: June 2009

A coagulopathy asSociated with severe hemolysis was a limiting factor in obtaining long‐term survivors among calves with total artificial hearts in 1969. Conversion of design from sac‐type hearts to flexible diaphragm hearts, and from Silastico Dacron‐fibril intimas to smooth polyurethane intimas, resulted in an abatement of the coagulopathy.

In the most recent series of animals studied at this laboratory, platelet counts are normal and platelet survivals are half of normal. Plasma hemoglobins are normal. The coagulation system is still activated at specific loci within the total artificial heart, but is best compensated for in calves treated with antiplatelet drugs, having polyurethane hearts.
COMPARISON OF THREE DIFFERENT METHODS FOR THE ISOLATION OF BACTERIOCIN‐LIKE INHIBITORY SUBSTANCES FROMBIFIDOBACTERIUM INFANTISBCRC 14602
Authors: CHEIKHYOUSSEF AHMAD , POGORI NATASCHA , CHEN HAIQIN , ZHAO JIANXIN , TANG JIAN , CHEN WEI , ZHANG HAO
Published: June 2009

The objective of this research was to compare three different methods for the isolation of bacteriocin‐like inhibitory substances (BLIS) fromBifidobacterium infantisBCRC 14602 (Bioresource Collection and Research Center) for their ease of use and reliability. Ammonium sulfate with 80% saturation of the neutralized cell‐free supernatant resulted in 80% of total activity and a 4.56‐fold increase in specific activity. After dialysis, the specific activity increased 76‐fold, but total activity recovered decreased to 8%. In the second method, adsorption and desorption of the BLIS onto/from the producer cells, the adsorption of the BLIS to the producer cells was strongly affected by the pH of the culture broth whereby 100% adsorption to the killed cells occurred between pH 6.0 and 7.0. Desorption of BLIS from the producer cells was achieved at pH 1.5–2.0. This procedure increased the purification fold 120 times, which was the highest among the three methods studied with a specific activity of 31,605 AU/mg and a yield of 64%. In the adsorption and desorption of BLIS onto/from silicic acid, it was confirmed that the adsorption of the BLIS to silicic acid (5%) was strongly affected by the pH of the broth culture of which 100% adsorption occurred between pH 5.0 and 7.0, whereas at pH values below 5.0 and above 7.0, the adsorption ratio decreased to 67% and 45%, respectively. The best method in terms of purification fold and yield was the adsorption and desorption of BLIS onto/from silicic acid.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Very low amounts of published data exist on the isolation of bacteriocins or bacteriocin‐like inhibitory substances (BLIS) fromBifidobacteriumsp. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on a BLIS isolation fromBifidobacterium infantisBCRC 14602 (Bioresource Collection and Research Center) using different methods. The ability of the partially purified BLIS to inhibit the growth of gram‐negative bacteria, which cause food spoilage and foodborne diseases, makes the bacteriocins purified from bifidobacteria very useful in food safety applications. Further studies should focus on the isolation of the bacteriocins or BLIS of the selected bifidobacteria to evaluate their applications and roles in food preservation. The production of bacteriocins and BLIS can contribute to the elucidation of the mechanism used by bifidobacteria in host defense against potentially pathogenic bacteria dominating the gastrointestinal tract and to control the proliferation of harmful and pathogenic bacteria.
IDENTIFICATION OF PROTEINS INVOLVED IN INFECTIVITY AND ENTEROTOXIN PRODUCTION IN ENTEROBACTER SAKAZAKII
Authors: YANG JIELIN , WEI LIMING , GU MING , FANG XIAOMING , YANG PENYUAN
Published: June 2009

Enterobacter sakazakii is a gram‐negative rod bacterium that was formerly known as “yellow‐pigmented Enterobacter cloacae” until 1980. It is an emerging opportunistic pathogen associated with bacterial meningitis in immunocompromised neonates who ingested contaminated powdered infant formula. In several E. sakazakii‐related outbreaks and sporadic cases, powdered infant formula was epidemiologically or microbiologically established as the source of infection. The International Commission on Microbiological Specifications for Foods has ranked E. sakazakii as a “severe hazard for restricted populations.” However, the organism was isolated at very low levels from commercial powdered infant formula and dry environmental samples collected from infant formula factories. In most cases, the contamination did not exceed 1 cfu per 100 g.

Progress in understanding the epidemiology of E. sakazakii outbreaks and instituting effective control measures has been poor to date. To clarify the mechanisms involved in infectivity and enterotoxin production, we performed two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis (2‐DE) coupled with matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry and isotope‐coded affinity tags (ICATs)‐LC ‐MS to identify and quantify differences in protein expression between the E. sakazakii strains. We found 23 spots in 2‐DE and 37 proteins in ICAT analysis that were differentially expressed in E. sakazakii. These two methods gave us closely related but different information, suggesting that the two methods are complementary or at least supplementary.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Enterobacter sakazakii has been implicated in meningitis or enteritis with 20% to >50% mortality of infants who contract the disease. Our research has been used in verification of Enterobacter sakazakii isolated from infant formula and other milk and milk related foods. We have established standard maps of two Enterobacter sakazakii strains which were isolated from infant formula. Through appearance or absence of specific spots and their isoelectric point or molecular weight comparison, a two dimensional electrophoresis standard map can be developed and used as a powerful tool to differentiate Enterobacter sakazakii from other Enterobacteriaceae. This offers microbiologists powerful tools for Enterobacter sakazakii detection and provides more basic information to investigate the pathogenesis of Enterobacter sakazakii and contamination sources in infant formula production.
Relationship between In‐line Viscosity and Bostwick Measurement during Ketchup Production
Authors: McCarthy Kathryn L. , McCarthy Michael J.
Published: June 2009

ABSTRACT:  The Bostwick consistometer remains an integral part of assessing the consistency of tomato products in the factory. This work addresses the blending of tomato pastes, packed at different Bostwick readings, for use in tomato ketchup production. The objective of this study was to correlate in‐line viscosity measurements of 12 °Bx tomato concentrates to final product quality. Five blends of tomato concentrate were prepared by blending 2 pastes and diluting the mixture to a soluble solids level of 12 °Bx. In‐line viscometry measurements at process temperature were made using magnetic resonance viscometry. The resulting Herschel–Bulkley parameters were used to evaluate an apparent viscosity at a characteristic shear rate. The apparent viscosity and Bostwick measurement for the blends were correlated based on a gravity current flow analysis, yielding a coefficient of determination of over 0.99. Ketchup was made from the tomato concentrate blends at 3 levels of natural tomato soluble solids (NTSS). The ketchup Bostwick measurement was then correlated to the ratio of (η/ρ)−1/5 of the 12 °Bx tomato concentrate yielding coefficients of determination of 0.97, 0.97, and 0.91 for NTSS levels of 6%, 7%, and 7.8%, respectively. This study demonstrates that final product quality can be predicted from in‐line viscosity measurements of an intermediate product.
d‐Ribose, A Metabolic Substrate for Congestive Heart Failure
Authors: Wagner Susan , Herrick James , Shecterle Linda M. , St. Cyr John A.
Published: June 2009

The incidence of congestive heart failure continues to escalate worldwide, taxing health care systems. Current therapies focus on clinical management. Current accepted regimens have provided some success; however, most patients show progression of their disease. Because of this failure, research continues to explore therapies directed at stabilization of their disease and hopefully to improve the downward spiral. Publications have asserted that the failing heart is energy starved. d‐ribose, a naturally occurring pentose carbohydrate and a key component in the adenosine triphosphate (ATP) molecule, has demonstrated an ability to replenish ATP levels and improve diastolic dysfunction following myocardial ischemia, which has been shown to improve the clinical state of patients afflicted with congestive heart failure. d‐ribose may provide the necessary metabolic substrate to benefit this energy‐deficient state found in heart failure.
Modeling Electron-Phonon Nonequilibrium in Gold Films Using Boltzmann Transport Model
Authors: Pattamatta Arvind , Madnia Cyrus K.
Published: June 2009

Ultrashort-pulsed laser irradiation on metals creates a thermal nonequilibrium between electrons and the phonons. Previous computational studies used the two-temperature model and its variants to model this nonequilibrium. However, when the laser pulse duration is smaller than the relaxation time of the energy carriers or when the carriers’ mean free path is larger than the material dimension, these macroscopic models fail to capture the physics accurately. In this paper, the nonequilibrium between energy carriers is modeled via a numerical solution of the Boltzmann transport model (BTM) for electrons and phonons, which is applicable over a wide range of lengths and time scales. The BTM is solved using the discontinuous Galerkin finite element method for spatial discretization and the three-step Runge–Kutta temporal discretization. Temperature dependent electron-phonon coupling factor and electron heat capacity are used due to the strong electron-phonon nonequilibrium considered in this study. The results from the proposed model are compared with existing experimental studies on laser heating of macroscale materials. The model is then used to study laser heating of gold films, by varying parameters such as the film thickness, laser fluence, and pulse duration. It is found that the temporal evolution of electron and phonon temperatures in nanometer size gold films is very different from the macroscale films. For a given laser fluence and pulse duration, the peak electron temperature increases with a decrease in the thickness of the gold film. Both film thickness and laser fluence significantly affect the melting time. For a fluence of 1000 J/m2, and a pulse duration of 75 fs, gold films of thickness smaller than 100 nm melt before reaching electron-phonon equilibrium. However, for the film thickness of 2000 nm, even with the highest laser fluence examined, the electrons and phonons reach equilibrium and the gold film does not melt.
PEAK DETECTION IN MASS SPECTROMETRY BY GABOR FILTERS AND ENVELOPE ANALYSIS
Authors: NGUYEN NHA , HUANG HENG , ORAINTARA SOONTORN , VO AN
Published: June 2009

Mass Spectrometry (MS) is increasingly being used to discover diseases-related proteomic patterns. The peak detection step is one of the most important steps in the typical analysis of MS data. Recently, many new algorithms have been proposed to increase true position rate with low false discovery rate in peak detection. Most of them follow two approaches: one is the denoising approach and the other is the decomposing approach. In the previous studies, the decomposition of MS data method shows more potential than the first one. In this paper, we propose two novel methods, named GaborLocal and GaborEnvelop, both of which can detect more true peaks with a lower false discovery rate than previous methods. We employ the method of Gaussian local maxima to detect peaks, because it is robust to noise in signals. A new approach, peak rank, is defined for the first time to identify peaks instead of using the signal-to-noise ratio. Meanwhile, the Gabor filter is used to amplify important information and compress noise in the raw MS signal. Moreover, we also propose the envelope analysis to improve the quantification of peaks and remove more false peaks. The proposed methods have been performed on the real SELDI-TOF spectrum with known polypeptide positions. The experimental results demonstrate that our methods outperform other commonly used methods in the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve.
Chorioamnionitis, Postnatal Factors and Proinflammatory Response in the Pathogenetic Sequence of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Authors: Speer Christian P.
Published: June 2009

Pulmonary inflammation has a central role in the multifactorial and complex pathogenesis of bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Pre- and postnatal factors such as chorioamnionitis, oxygen toxicity, mechanical ventilation and postnatal infections can induce and perpetuate an injurious and complex inflammatory response in the airways and lung tissue of very immature infants. This inflammatory process is characterized by the accumulation of inflammatory cells and an arsenal of proinflammatory mediators such as cytokines, toxic oxygen radicals, lipid mediators and potent proteases. An imbalance between pro- and anti-inflammatory factors favoring the proinflammatory process can be considered as a hallmark of lung injury. In addition, impaired mechanisms of tissue remodeling and repair together with a subnormal generation of growth factors could affect alveolarization and vascular development with lifelong consequences for the infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia.
Autosomal Dominant von Willebrand Disease Type 2M
Authors: Hermans Cedric , Batlle Javier
Published: June 2009

von Willebrand disease (VWD) type 2M is a distinct entity and clearly differs from type 1. The genotype-phenotype correlation for cases with ristocetin cofactor activity (RCo)/antigen (Ag) ratios <0.60 is clear, whereas the von Willebrand factor (VWF):collagen binding (CB)/VWF:Ag ratio is normal in VWD 2M. Typical laboratory features of VWD type 2 M are decreased ristocetin-induced platelet aggregation in the presence of a normal or near normal VWF multimeric pattern on a low-resolution agarose gel, a poor response to desmopressin (DDAVP) of VWF:RCo, and a good response of both VWF:CB and VWF:Ag to DDAVP. The phenotypic definition of VWD type 2M may need to be more stringent and should be the subject of an international standardization initiative.
Successful Stereotactic Radiosurgery with the CyberKnife® of a Giant Arteriovenous Malformation of the Tongue: A Case Report
Authors: Saito Kenichi , Imate Yuji , Fukuda Teruyo , Kajiwara Koji , Ishihara Hideyuki , Suzuki Michiyasu , Sato Katsuro
Published: June 2009

We report a successful outcome for a large arteriovenous malformation (AVM) of the tongue treated with CyberKnife® (CK) image-based stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). A 56-year-old man presenting with a tongue AVM underwent ligation of the lingual artery and partial resection of the nidus. Sixteen years later, his pulsating submandibular mass had enlarged. An image study revealed a remarkable re-expansion of the nidus involving the tongue and the oral floor, with a volume of 130 ml. CK SRS was performed with 2 fractions. The prescribed marginal dose was 22 Gy. Thirty-four months after SRS, angiography demonstrated complete obliteration of the nidus without major adverse effects. We conclude that CK SRS may be suitable for the treatment of AVMs in the head and neck region.
Organ Crosstalk in Critically Ill Patients: Hemofiltration and Immunomodulation in Sepsis
Authors: Schefold Joerg C. , Hasper Dietrich , Jörres Achim
Published: June 2009

Despite substantial advances in our understanding of the pathogenesis of sepsis, the mortality of patients with severe sepsis/septic shock is unacceptably high. The potential role of extracorporeal therapies in the adjunctive treatment of sepsis is highly controversial. The present article reviews the current status of clinical research in this area. Conventional ‘renal dose’ continuous and discontinuous renal replacement technologies fail to achieve a biologically relevant reduction of target molecules. This may be accomplished by modified approaches, e.g. using high-dose protocols, high cut-off membranes, or (selective or unselective) adsorption techniques; however, their clinical value remains to be established by prospective studies using clinical end points.
Effect of Ethnicity on the Progression of Diabetic Kidney Disease Independent of Glycemic Control
Authors: Salifu Moro O. , Shah Syed , Iqbal Muhammad H. , Nabi Mushtaq , Hayat Amir , Whaley-Connell Adam T. , Sowers James R. , McFarlane Samy I.
Published: June 2009

Background/Aims: The prevalence of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) and risk of progression to end-stage renal disease is higher in African-Americans as compared to Caucasians. Whether the higher rate of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decline in African-Americans is mediated by poor glycemic control is unclear. Methods: We conducted a prospective study of 183 (African-American, n = 95; Caucasian, n = 88, mean age 66 ± 10 vs. 70 ± 11 years) patients with a diagnosis of DKD followed over a period of 12 months. eGFR (ml/min/1.73 m2) was calculated by MDRD formula and grouped into stage 1–2 (≥60 ml/min), stage 3 (30–60 ml/min) and stage 4 (<30 ml/min). In addition, glycosylated hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) was categorized into tertiles (<7, 7–8 and >8%) at each time point. Results:There were no significant differences in eGFR at any time point between African-American and Caucasian in any stage of CKD during this period. There were also no significant differences in eGFR at any time point in each category of HbA1c. Conclusions: Our data indicate that there were no ethnic differences in the rate of progression of DKD under equivalent glycemic control. Further research is needed to explore the mechanisms associated with higher prevalence and rapid progression of CKD in African-Americans compared to Caucasians.
Atherosclerotic Disease of the Proximal Aorta and the Risk of Vascular Events in a Population-Based Cohort
Authors: Russo Cesare , Jin Zhezhen , Rundek Tatjana , Homma Shunichi , Sacco Ralph L. , Di Tullio Marco R.
Published: June 2009

Background and Purpose—

Proximal aortic plaques are a risk factor for vascular embolic events. However, this association in the general population is unclear. We sought to assess whether proximal aortic plaques are associated with vascular events in a community-based cohort.

Methods—

Stroke-free subjects from the Aortic Plaques and Risk of Ischemic Stroke (APRIS) study were evaluated. Aortic arch and proximal descending aortic plaques were assessed by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). Vascular events (myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, vascular death) were prospectively recorded, and their association with aortic plaques was assessed.

Results—

209 subjects were studied (age 67.0±8.6 years). Aortic arch plaques were present in 130 subjects (62.2%), large plaques (≥4 mm) in 50 (23.9%). Descending aortic plaques were present in 126 subjects (60.9%), large plaques in 41 (19.8%). During a follow-up of 74.4±26.3 months, 29 events occurred (12 myocardial infarctions, 11 ischemic strokes, 6 vascular deaths). After adjustment for risk factors, large aortic arch plaques were not associated with combined vascular events (hazard ratio [HR] 1.03, 95% confidence intervals [CI] 0.35 to 3.02) or ischemic stroke (HR 0.59, 95% CI 0.10 to 3.39). Large descending aortic plaques were also not independently associated with vascular events (HR 1.99, 95% CI 0.52 to 7.69) or ischemic stroke (HR 1.43, 95% CI 0.27 to 7.48).

Conclusions—

In a population-based cohort, the incidental detection of plaques in the aortic arch or proximal descending aorta was not associated with future vascular events. Associated cofactors may affect the previously reported association between proximal aortic plaques and vascular events.
Nitric Oxide in Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-Induced Focal Angiogenesis and Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Activity in the Mouse Brain
Authors: Lee Chanhung Z. , Xue Zheng , Hao Qi , Yang Guo-Yuan , Young William L.
Published: June 2009

Background and Purpose—

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) can induce matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 activities and focal angiogenesis. We hypothesized that VEGF activation of cerebral MMP-9 would require nitric oxide participation.

Methods—

We compared the in vivo effects of: (1) N
G
-monomethyl-
l
-arginine, a nonspecific nitric oxide synthase inhibitor; (2) L-N
6
-(1-iminoethyl)lysine, an inducible nitric oxide synthase selective inhibitor; and (3) doxycycline, a known nonspecific inhibitor of MMP in the mouse brain, using in situ zymography and endothelial marker CD31. 3-nitrotyrosine was used as a surrogate for nitric oxide activity. Inflammatory cell markers CD68 and MPO were used to confirm leukocyte infiltration.

Results—

VEGF-stimulated MMP-9 activity expressed primarily around cerebral microvessels. N
G
-monomethyl-
l
-arginine suppressed cerebral angiogenesis (
P
<0.05), especially those microvessels associated with MMP-9 activation (
P
<0.02) induced by VEGF, comparable to the effect of doxycycline. L-N
6
-(1-iminoethyl)lysine showed similar inhibitory effects. 3-nitrotyrosine confirmed nitric oxide levels in the brain. Compared with the lacZ control, VEGF increased inflammatory cell infiltration, especially macrophages, in the induced brain angiogenic focuses.

Conclusions—

Inhibition of nitric oxide production decreased MMP-9 activity and focal angiogenesis in the VEGF-stimulated brain. Both specific and nonspecific inhibition of nitric oxide synthase resulted in similar reductions, suggesting that VEGF-stimulated cerebral MMP activity and angiogenesis are predominantly mediated through inducible nitric oxide synthase, a specific nitric oxide synthase isoform mediating inflammatory responses.
Heritability and Linkage Analysis for Carotid Intima-Media Thickness
Authors: Sacco Ralph L. , Blanton Susan H. , Slifer Susan , Beecham Ashley , Glover Khaleelah , Gardener Hannah , Wang Liyong , Sabala Edison , Juo Suh-Hang Hank , Rundek Tatjana
Published: June 2009

Background and Purpose—

The aim of this study was to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) for carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) a risk factor for stroke and cardiovascular disease.

Methods—

Probands were selected from Caribbean Hispanic subjects of the population-based Northern Manhattan Study. CIMT was measured by high-resolution B-mode ultrasound and expressed as the mean (IMTx) and mean of the maximum (IMTm). Variance components methodology was used to detect linkage using SOLAR and calculate locus-specific heritability. Ordered-subset Analysis was done based on history of hypertension and total cholesterol levels.

Results—

Among 100 Dominican families, 1390 subjects had CIMT measured (848 females; mean age 46.2 years). CIMT had a heritability of 0.65 after adjusting for age, age
2
, sex, cigarette pack-years, waist hip ratio, and BMI. Adjusted maximum multipoint LOD scores >2 were found on chromosomes 14q (D14S606) and 7p (D7S817). Linkage to chromosome 14q was significantly increased in a subset of families with the greatest history of hypertension (MLOD=4.12). The QTL on Ch14q accounted for 0.21 of the heritability of IMTm, and on Ch7p 0.27 of the heritability of BIFm.

Conclusions—

Several QTLs for CIMT were found on chromosomes 7p and 14q. The QTL on 14q replicates a suggestive linkage peak delimited in the Framingham Heart Study. These QTLs accounted for a substantial amount of trait heritability and warrant further fine mapping.