bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Transcriptome profiling of low temperature-treated cassava apical shoots showed dynamic responses of tropical plant to cold stress
Authors: An Dong , Yang Jun , Zhang Peng 
Published: February 2012

Abstract

Background
Cassava is an important tropical root crop adapted to a wide range of environmental stimuli such as drought and acid soils. Nevertheless, it is an extremely cold-sensitive tropical species. Thus far, there is limited information about gene regulation and signalling pathways related to the cold stress response in cassava. The development of microarray technology has accelerated the study of global transcription profiling under certain conditions.

Results
A 60-mer oligonucleotide microarray representing 20,840 genes was used to perform transcriptome profiling in apical shoots of cassava subjected to cold at 7°C for 0, 4 and 9 h. A total of 508 transcripts were identified as early cold-responsive genes in which 319 sequences had functional descriptions when aligned with Arabidopsis proteins. Gene ontology annotation analysis identified many cold-relevant categories, including 'Response to abiotic and biotic stimulus', 'Response to stress', 'Transcription factor activity', and 'Chloroplast'. Various stress-associated genes with a wide range of biological functions were found, such as signal transduction components (e.g., MAP kinase 4), transcription factors (TFs, e.g., RAP2.11), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging enzymes (e.g., catalase 2), as well as photosynthesis-related genes (e.g., PsaL). Seventeen major TF families including many well-studied members (e.g., AP2-EREBP) were also involved in the early response to cold stress. Meanwhile, KEGG pathway analysis uncovered many important pathways, such as 'Plant hormone signal transduction' and 'Starch and sucrose metabolism'. Furthermore, the expression changes of 32 genes under cold and other abiotic stress conditions were validated by real-time RT-PCR. Importantly, most of the tested stress-responsive genes were primarily expressed in mature leaves, stem cambia, and fibrous roots rather than apical buds and young leaves. As a response to cold stress in cassava, an increase in transcripts and enzyme activities of ROS scavenging genes and the accumulation of total soluble sugars (including sucrose and glucose) were also detected.

Conclusions
The dynamic expression changes reflect the integrative controlling and transcriptome regulation of the networks in the cold stress response of cassava. The biological processes involved in the signal perception and physiological response might shed light on the molecular mechanisms related to cold tolerance in tropical plants and provide useful candidate genes for genetic improvement.
Non-hispanic whites have higher risk for pulmonary impairment from pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Pasipanodya Jotam G , Vecino Edgar , Miller Thaddeus L , Munguia Guadalupe , Drewyer Gerry , Fernandez Michel , Slocum Philip , Weis Stephen E 
Published: February 2012

Abstract

Background
Disparities in outcomes associated with race and ethnicity are well documented for many diseases and patient populations. Tuberculosis (TB) disproportionately affects economically disadvantaged, racial and ethnic minority populations. Pulmonary impairment after tuberculosis (PIAT) contributes heavily to the societal burden of TB. Individual impacts associated with PIAT may vary by race/ethnicity or socioeconomic status.

Methods
We analyzed the pulmonary function of 320 prospectively identified patients with pulmonary tuberculosis who had completed at least 20 weeks standard anti-TB regimes by directly observed therapy. We compared frequency and severity of spirometry-defined PIAT in groups stratified by demographics, pulmonary risk factors, and race/ethnicity, and examined clinical correlates to pulmonary function deficits.

Results
Pulmonary impairment after tuberculosis was identified in 71% of non-Hispanic Whites, 58% of non-Hispanic Blacks, 49% of Asians and 32% of Hispanics (p < 0.001). Predictors for PIAT varied between race/ethnicity. PIAT was evenly distributed across all levels of socioeconomic status suggesting that PIAT and socioeconomic status are not related. PIAT and its severity were significantly associated with abnormal chest x-ray, p < 0.0001. There was no association between race/ethnicity and time to beginning TB treatment, p = 0.978.

Conclusions
Despite controlling for cigarette smoking, socioeconomic status and time to beginning TB treatment, non-Hispanic White race/ethnicity remained an independent predictor for disproportionately frequent and severe pulmonary impairment after tuberculosis relative to other race/ethnic groups. Since race/ethnicity was self reported and that race is not a biological construct: these findings must be interpreted with caution. However, because race/ethnicity is a proxy for several other unmeasured host, pathogen or environment factors that may contribute to disparate health outcomes, these results are meant to suggest hypotheses for further research.
Using CF11 cellulose columns to inexpensively and effectively remove human DNA from Plasmodium falciparum-infected whole blood samples
Authors: Venkatesan Meera , Amaratunga Chanaki , Campino Susana , Auburn Sarah , Koch Oliver , Lim Pharath , Uk Sambunny , Socheat Duong , Kwiatkowski Dominic P , Fairhurst Rick M , Plowe Christopher V 
Published: February 2012

Abstract

Background
Genome and transcriptome studies of Plasmodium nucleic acids obtained from parasitized whole blood are greatly improved by depletion of human DNA or enrichment of parasite DNA prior to next-generation sequencing and microarray hybridization. The most effective method currently used is a two-step procedure to deplete leukocytes: centrifugation using density gradient media followed by filtration through expensive, commercially available columns. This method is not easily implemented in field studies that collect hundreds of samples and simultaneously process samples for multiple laboratory analyses. Inexpensive syringes, hand-packed with CF11 cellulose powder, were recently shown to improve ex vivo cultivation of Plasmodium vivax obtained from parasitized whole blood. This study was undertaken to determine whether CF11 columns could be adapted to isolate Plasmodium falciparum DNA from parasitized whole blood and achieve current quantity and purity requirements for Illumina sequencing.

Methods
The CF11 procedure was compared with the current two-step standard of leukocyte depletion using parasitized red blood cells cultured in vitro and parasitized blood obtained ex vivo from Cambodian patients with malaria. Procedural variations in centrifugation and column size were tested, along with a range of blood volumes and parasite densities.

Results
CF11 filtration reliably produces 500 nanograms of DNA with less than 50% human DNA contamination, which is comparable to that obtained by the two-step method and falls within the current quality control requirements for Illumina sequencing. In addition, a centrifuge-free version of the CF11 filtration method to isolate P. falciparum DNA at remote and minimally equipped field sites in malaria-endemic areas was validated.

Conclusions
CF11 filtration is a cost-effective, scalable, one-step approach to remove human DNA from P. falciparum-infected whole blood samples.
An improved single-step lysis protocol to measure luciferase bioluminescence in Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Hasenkamp Sandra , Wong Eleanor H , Horrocks Paul 
Published: February 2012

Abstract
This report describes the optimization and evaluation of a simple single-step lysis protocol to measure luciferase bioluminescence from genetically modified Plasmodium falciparum. This protocol utilizes a modified commercial buffer to improve speed of assay and consistency in the bioluminescence signal measured by reducing the manipulation steps required to release the cytoplasmic fraction. The utility of this improved assay protocol is demonstrated in typical assays that explore absolute and temporal gene expression activity.
Isolated displaced non-union of a triquetral body fracture: a case report
Authors: Rasoli Sonia , Ricks Matthew , Packer Greg 
Published: February 2012

Abstract

Introduction
Fractures of the body of the triquetral bone are the second most common carpal fractures, and these fractures can be missed on plain X-ray. Although non-union of triquetral body fractures is very rare, such cases are associated with considerable morbidity and reduction in functional activity.

Case presentation
We report the case of a 29-year-old Caucasian British man who sustained an isolated displaced triquetral body fracture that resulted in non-union, who was treated surgically. We describe an original operative management for this debilitating injury. An open reduction and internal fixation using double headed compression screws was performed, without bone grafting, and with early immobilization of the wrist.

Conclusions
We propose this novel approach and advocate early clinical suspicion of triquetral body fractures in patients with a history of fall on an outstretched hand and ulnar sided wrist pain. We recommend evaluation using computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging scanning.
Differential regulation of intracellular factors mediating cell cycle, DNA repair and inflammation following exposure to silver nanoparticles in human cells
Authors: AshaRani PV , Sethu Swaminathan , Lim Hui Kheng , Balaji Ganapathy , Valiyaveettil Suresh , Hande M Prakash 
Published: February 2012

Background
Investigating the cellular and molecular signatures in eukaryotic cells following exposure to nanoparticles will further our understanding on the mechanisms mediating nanoparticle induced effects. This study illustrates the molecular effects of silver nanoparticles (Ag-np) in normal human lung cells, IMR-90 and human brain cancer cells, U251 with emphasis on gene expression, induction of inflammatory mediators and the interaction of Ag-np with cytosolic proteins.

Results
We report that silver nanoparticles are capable of adsorbing cytosolic proteins on their surface that may influence the function of intracellular factors. Gene and protein expression profiles of Ag-np exposed cells revealed up regulation of many DNA damage response genes such as Gadd 45 in both the cell types and ATR in cancer cells. Moreover, down regulation of genes necessary for cell cycle progression (cyclin B and cyclin E) and DNA damage response/repair (XRCC1 and 3, FEN1, RAD51C, RPA1) was observed in both the cell lines. Double strand DNA damage was observed in a dose dependant manner as evidenced in γH2AX foci assay. There was a down regulation of p53 and PCNA in treated cells. Cancer cells in particular showed a concentration dependant increase in phosphorylated p53 accompanied by the cleavage of caspase 3 and PARP. Our results demonstrate the involvement of NFκB and MAP kinase pathway in response to Ag-np exposure. Up regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukins (IL-8, IL-6), macrophage colony stimulating factor, macrophage inflammatory protein in fibroblasts following Ag-np exposure were also observed.

Conclusion
In summary, Ag-np can modulate gene expression and protein functions in IMR-90 cells and U251 cells, leading to defective DNA repair, proliferation arrest and inflammatory response. The observed changes could also be due to its capability to adsorb cytosolic proteins on its surface.
Evidence summaries: the evolution of a rapid review approach
Authors: Khangura Sara , Konnyu Kristin , Cushman Rob , Grimshaw Jeremy , Moher David 
Published: February 2012

Abstract

Background
Rapid reviews have emerged as a streamlined approach to synthesizing evidence - typically for informing emergent decisions faced by decision makers in health care settings. Although there is growing use of rapid review 'methods', and proliferation of rapid review products, there is a dearth of published literature on rapid review methodology. This paper outlines our experience with rapidly producing, publishing and disseminating evidence summaries in the context of our Knowledge to Action (KTA) research program.

Methods
The KTA research program is a two-year project designed to develop and assess the impact of a regional knowledge infrastructure that supports evidence-informed decision making by regional managers and stakeholders. As part of this program, we have developed evidence summaries - our form of rapid review - which have come to be a flagship component of this project. Our eight-step approach for producing evidence summaries has been developed iteratively, based on evidence (where available), experience and knowledge user feedback. The aim of our evidence summary approach is to deliver quality evidence that is both timely and user-friendly.

Results
From November 2009 to March 2011 we have produced 11 evidence summaries on a diverse range of questions identified by our knowledge users. Topic areas have included questions of clinical effectiveness to questions on health systems and/or health services. Knowledge users have reported evidence summaries to be of high value in informing their decisions and initiatives. We continue to experiment with incorporating more of the established methods of systematic reviews, while maintaining our capacity to deliver a final product in a timely manner.

Conclusions
The evolution of the KTA rapid review evidence summaries has been a positive one. We have developed an approach that appears to be addressing a need by knowledge users for timely, user-friendly, and trustworthy evidence and have transparently reported these methods here for the wider rapid review and scientific community.
Tannic Acid Down-Regulates the Angiotensin Type 1 Receptor Through a MAPK-Dependent Mechanism
Authors: Yesudas Rekha , Gumaste Upendra , Snyder Russell , Thekkumkara Thomas 
Published: February 2012

AbstractIn the present study, we investigated the effects of tannic acid (TA), a hydrolysable polyphenol, on angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT1R) expression in continuously passaged rat liver epithelial cells. Under normal conditions, exposure of cells to TA resulted in the down-regulation of AT1R-specific binding in concentrations ranging from 12.5–100 μg/ml (7.34–58.78 μm) over a time period of 2–24 h with no change in receptor affinity to angiotensin II (AngII). The inhibitory effect of TA on AT1R was specific and reversible. In TA-treated cells, we observed a significant reduction in AngII-mediated intracellular calcium signaling, a finding consistent with receptor down-regulation. Under similar conditions, TA down-regulated AT1R mRNA expression without changing the rate of mRNA degradation, suggesting that TA's effect is mediated through transcriptional inhibition. Cells expressing recombinant AT1R without the native promoter show no change in receptor expression, whereas a pCAT reporter construct possessing the rat AT1R promoter was significantly reduced in activity. Furthermore, TA induced the phosphorylation of MAPK p42/p44. Pretreatment of the cells with a MAPK kinase (MEK)-specific inhibitor PD98059 prevented TA-induced MAPK phosphorylation and down-regulation of the AT1R. Moreover, there was no reduction in AngII-mediated intracellular calcium release upon MEK inhibition, suggesting that TA's observed inhibitory effect is mediated through MEK/MAPK signaling. Our findings demonstrate, for the first time, that TA inhibits AT1R gene expression and cellular response, suggesting the observed protective effects of dietary polyphenols on cardiovascular conditions may be, in part, through inhibition of AT1R expression.
Assessment of Workplace Air Concentrations of Indium Dust in an Indium‐recycling Plant
Authors: Miyauchi Hiroyuki , Minozoe Aoi , Tanaka Shigeru , Tanaka Akiyo , Hirata Miyuki , Nakaza Masahiro , Arito Heihachiro , Eitaki Yoko , Nakano Makiko , Omae Kazuyuki 
Published: February 2012

Assessment of Workplace Air Concentrations of Indium Dust in an Indium‐recycling Plant: Hiroyuki MIYAUCHI, et al. The Association of Industrial Health—ObjectivesSuspended indium dust in an indium‐recycling plant was quantified, in order to improve the work environment and to reduce workers' exposure to the dust.MethodsAssessment of indium dust in the workplace air by multipoint area sampling and personal breathing zone sampling was conducted twice in 2004 and 2008.ResultsIn 2004, all recycling processes except for purity analysis were classified into control class III according to the 2004 Notification. Two out of 5 workers were exposed to total dust with indium concentrations exceeding the ACGIH's TLV‐TWA of 0.1 mg In/m3. In 2008, the indium‐contaminated workplace air was improved by local exhaust ventilation systems installed in some processes, resulting in control class I. According to the 2010 Technical Guideline, however, all the processes were classified into stage II or III, indicating that the first assessment value or Measurement B‐based concentrations exceeded the acceptable exposure concentration limit of 0.0003 mg In/m3of respirabe dust. Exposure of almost all the workers to indium dust was below the TLV‐TWA.ConclusionsThe first field survey showed that almost all workplaces were classified into control class III, and that some workers were exposed to dust with indium concentrations exceeding the TLV‐TWA. It was found in the second survey that workplace air contamination was improved by the local exhaust ventilation system, but was not reduced sufficiently to a level that meets the new Guideline.
Preparation of Protonated Titanate Nanotube Films with an Extremely Large Wetting Contrast
Authors: Lai Y. K. , Tang Y. X. , Gong D. G. , Gong J. J. , Chen Y. C. , Lin C. J. , Chen Z. 
Published: February 2012

ABSTRACTA facile anodic electrophoretic deposition (EPD) process has been developed to prepare thin uniform films consisting of titanate nanotubes (TNTs) that were synthesized by a hydrothermal approach. Such an EPD process offers easy control in the film thickness and the adhesion to the substrate was found to be strong. The chemical composition and structure of the products have been characterized by HRTEM, FESEM, XRD and TG/DTA. It was found that the functionalization of TNTs plays a key role on the electrolyte stability and the successful formation of a uniform TNT film with good adhesion. The as-prepared TNT films show exceptional superhydrophilic behavior with ultra-fast spreading, while it converts to superhydrophobicity yet with high adhesion after 1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorooctyl-triethoxysilane modification. This study provides an interesting method to prepare films with extremely high wettability contrast that are useful for producing different kinds of functional materials.
Curcumin Inhibits Thrombin‐Stimulated Connective Tissue Growth Factor (CTGF/CCN2) Production Through c‐Jun NH2‐Terminal Kinase Suppression in Human Gingival Fibroblasts
Authors: Chen Yi‐Wen , Yang Wan‐Hsien , Wong Man‐Ying , Chang Hao‐Hueng , Yen‐Ping Kuo Mark 
Published: February 2012

Background: Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2), associated with multiple human fibrotic diseases, is overexpressed in the tissue of gingival overgrowth. Although surgical excision is the current treatment modality for gingival overgrowth, the recurrent rate is high despite proper recall programs. Thrombin plays a key role in wound repair, remodeling, and fibrosis after injury and exerts profibrotic effects by activating protease‐activated receptors (PARs). Curcumin [1,7‐bis(4‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxyphenyl)‐1,6‐heptadiene‐3,5‐dione] is a natural plant phenolic compound that possesses both anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This study investigates the signaling pathway of thrombin‐induced CCN2 expression and inhibition of CCN2 expression by curcumin.Methods: The signaling pathway of thrombin‐induced CCN2 expression in human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) was studied using Western blot analysis. The CCN2 mRNA level was determined by quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction.Results: Thrombin induced CCN2 expression in HGFs by activating PAR1. Pretreatment with antioxidant N‐acetyl‐l‐cysteine, apoptosis signal‐regulating kinase 1 (ASK1) inhibitor thioredoxin, and c‐Jun NH2‐terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitor SP600125 (anthra[1,9‐cd]pyrazol‐6(2H)‐one) significantly reduced thrombin‐induced CCN2 expression in HGFs. Curcumin dose dependently inhibited thrombin‐induced CCN2 expression through JNK suppression in HGFs.Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that thrombin‐induced CCN2 expression may occur through PAR1, reactive oxygen species, ASK1, and JNK signaling in HGFs. Curcumin could effectively inhibit CCN2 expression through JNK suppression. These signaling events are important for wound healing and fibrosis. Additional research, including animal studies, is required to confirm the inhibiting role of curcumin in the development of gingival overgrowth.
DISCUSSION OF The Impact of Mandatory IFRS Adoption on Accounting Quality: Evidence from Australia
Authors: Elias Nabil 
Published: February 2012

ABSTRACT
Studying the impact of mandatory IFRS adoption on accounting quality in Australia provides a point of reference for comparison to other IFRS-adopting countries. It could also guide the process of transition for countries considering IFRS adoption. Similar to previous research, Chua et al. (2012) use earnings management, early loss recognition, and value relevance to surrogate accounting quality. The study concludes that there is accounting quality improvement as a result of less earnings management, early loss recognition, and increased value relevance. Although the reasons for the results are unexplored, this conclusion, similar to other prior research, is based on disputable interpretations that greater conservatism and lower earnings management reflect higher accounting quality.
Preparation of Zn1–

x
Mn
x
O nanoparticles by a simple “green” method and photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation
Authors: Barjasteh-Moghaddam Mohammad , Habibi-Yangjeh Aziz 
Published: February 2012

Abstract
A simple “green” method was applied for preparation of Zn1 –

x
Mn
x
O nanoparticles (x = 0, 0.025, 0.05, 0.075, 0.15 and 0.20) in water by refluxing for 2 h at about 90 °C. This method is mild and highly efficient involving no templates, surfactants or additives; therefore, it is very promising for low-cost and large-scale production. Powder X-ray diffraction patterns demonstrate that the nanoparticles have the same crystal structure, and loading of Mn2+ ions does not change the structure of ZnO. Scanning electron microscopy images show that the nanoparticles are mainly spherical. UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectra of the samples demonstrate increasing visible light absorption with mole fraction of Mn2+ ions. Photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue on the nanoparticles was evaluated under visible light irradiation. Among the prepared nanoparticles, Zn0.95Mn0.05O has the highest photocatalytic activity. Moreover, effects of refluxing time and calcination temperature on photocatalytic activity were investigated.
High temperature workability behaviour of a modified P92 steel
Authors: Carsí Manuel , Peñalba Félix , Rieiro Ignacio , Ruano Oscar A. 
Published: February 2012

Abstract
The high temperature forming behaviour of a modified P92, type 9 % Cr, steel is studied by means of torsion tests. The data obtained from these tests allowed correlation of the number of turns to failure, a measure of ductility, as a function of strain rate and temperature. In addition, the data were correlated by the Garofalo equation with a stress exponent of 4.78 and an activation energy of 390 kJ mol– 1. This equation was used to predict the formability behaviour for the rolling process and also to determine the maximum forming efficiency and stability of the steel. A temperature of 1 140 °C is found to give the optimum forming temperature.