bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Functional characterization of cellulases identified from the cow rumen fungus Neocallimastix patriciarum W5 by transcriptomic and secretomic analyses
Authors: Wang Tzi-Yuan , Chen Hsin-Liang , Lu Mei-Yeh J , Chen Yo-Chia , Sung Huang-Mo , Mao Chi-Tang , Cho Hsing-Yi , Ke Huei-Mien , Hwa Teh-Yang , Ruan Sz-Kai , Hung Kuo-Yen , Chen Chih-Kuan , Li Jeng-Yi , Wu Yueh-Chin , Chen Yu-Hsiang , Chou Shao-Pei , Tsai Ya-Wen , Chu Te-Chin , Shih Chun-Chieh A , Li Wen-Hsiung , Shih Ming-Che 
Published: August 2011

Abstract

Background

Neocallimastix patriciarum is one of the common anaerobic fungi in the digestive tracts of ruminants that can actively digest cellulosic materials, and its cellulases have great potential for hydrolyzing cellulosic feedstocks. Due to the difficulty in culture and lack of a genome database, it is not easy to gain a global understanding of the glycosyl hydrolases (GHs) produced by this anaerobic fungus.

Results
We have developed an efficient platform that uses a combination of transcriptomic and proteomic approaches to N. patriciarum to accelerate gene identification, enzyme classification and application in rice straw degradation. By conducting complementary studies of transcriptome (Roche 454 GS and Illumina GA IIx) and secretome (ESI-Trap LC-MS/MS), we identified 219 putative GH contigs and classified them into 25 GH families. The secretome analysis identified four major enzymes involved in rice straw degradation: β-glucosidase, endo-1,4-β-xylanase, xylanase B and Cel48A exoglucanase. From the sequences of assembled contigs, we cloned 19 putative cellulase genes, including the GH1, GH3, GH5, GH6, GH9, GH18, GH43 and GH48 gene families, which were highly expressed in N. patriciarum cultures grown on different feedstocks.

Conclusions
These GH genes were expressed in Pichia pastoris and/or Saccharomyces cerevisiae for functional characterization. At least five novel cellulases displayed cellulytic activity for glucose production. One β-glucosidase (W5-16143) and one exocellulase (W5-CAT26) showed strong activities and could potentially be developed into commercial enzymes.
Accuracy of 64-multidetector computed tomography in diagnosis of adnexal tumors
Authors: Gatreh-Samani Fatemeh , Tarzamni Mohammad Kazem , Olad-Sahebmadarek Elaheh , Dastranj Ali , Afrough Aimaz 
Published: August 2011

Abstract

Background
Adnexal cancers are in fifth place among the tumors with the highest mortality in the female population. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the accuracy of Multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) on a 64-multislice CT scanner in the detection and differentiation of adnexal masses stages.

Methods
During the present prospective study, 95 women with a primary diagnosis of ovarian mass in base of clinical examination and ultrasonographic findings underwent preoperative evaluation by a 64-slice MDCT with a section thickness of 0.6 mm, 50% overlap and reconstructed images. Afterward, results of MDCT were compared with surgical and histopathological findings, and the sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value and accuracy were determined.

Results
The mean age of patients was 48.63 ± 13.93 years. MDCT diagnosed 25 (26.3%) masses to be benign and 70 (73.7%) to be malignant (sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value and accuracy were 92.8%, 88.0%, 95.5%, 81.4% and 91.5% respectively). The sensitivity and specificity of MDCT in determining local extension was 72.2% and 93.4% respectively. And the sensitivity and specificity of MDCT in determining peritoneal seeding and liver extension was 81.8% and 93% respectively. Estimated stage was significantly agreed with the surgical (Cohen's Kappa (κ) = 0.891) and histopathological findings (κ = 0.858).

Conclusion
MDCT is a highly sensitive and specific diagnostic method in evaluation of adnexal masses and successfully stage the tumor in consistent with surgery and histopathology.
Dynamics of Executive Control and Motor Deficits in Parkinsonian Rats
Authors: Courtière Alain , Hardouin Jeanine , Burle Borís , Vidal Franck , Turle-Lorenzo Nathalie , Amalric Marianne , Hasbroucq Thierry 
Published: August 2011

While there is general agreement that in Parkinson's disease (PD), striatal dopamine (DA) depletion causes motor deficits, the origin of the associated cognitive impairments remains a matter of debate. The present study aimed to decipher the influence of a partial 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) lesion of striatal DA nerve terminals in rats performing a reaction time task previously used to assess cognitive deficits in PD patients. The effects of two behavioral manipulations—foreperiod duration and stimulus–response congruence—known to affect motor processes and executive control, respectively, were studied over 8 weeks postsurgery in control and lesion animals.Two weeks after surgery, the lesion abolished the effect of foreperiod, confirming the direct involvement of striatal DA in motor processes, but failed to alter the effect of congruence. During the following weeks, the effect of foreperiod was reinstated, indicating a recovery of lesion-induced motor symptoms. This recovery was accompanied by a progressive increase of the congruence effect, signaling an executive control deficit in lesion animals. This result provides the first evidence that 6-OHDA lesioned rats exhibit the same cognitive impairment as PD patients in this task. The deficit, however, built up progressively after the lesion and may result from adaptations mitigating lesion-induced motor deficits.
High allele frequency of the p.Q258X mutation and identification of a novel mis-splicing mutation in the STAR gene in Korean patients with congenital lipoid adrenal hyperplasia
Authors: Kim Jae-Min , Choi Jin-Ho , Lee Jung Hyun , Kim Gu-Hwan , Lee Beom Hee , Kim Hae Soon , Shin Jeh-Hoon , Shin Choong-Ho , Kim Chan Jong , Yu Jeesuk , Lee Dae-Yeol , Cho Won Kyoung , Suh Byung-Kyu , Lee Ji Eun , Chung Hye Rim , Yoo Han-Wook 
Published: August 2011

ObjectiveSteroidogenic acute regulatory (STAR) protein plays a crucial role in steroidogenesis, and mutations in the STAR gene cause congenital lipoid adrenal hyperplasia (CLAH). This study investigated the STAR mutation spectrum and functionally analyzed a novel STAR mutation in Korean patients with CLAH.MethodsMutation analysis of STAR was carried out in 25 unrelated Korean CLAH patients. A region of STAR comprising exons 4–7 was cloned from human genomic DNA into an expression vector, followed by site-directed mutagenesis and transient expression in COS7 cells. The splicing pattern was analyzed by in vitro transcription, and each transcript was functionally characterized by measuring pregnenolone production in COS7 cells cotransfected with the cholesterol side chain cleavage system.ResultsMutation p.Q258X was identified in 46 of 50 alleles (92%); mutation c.653C>T was detected in two alleles (4%); and mutations p.R182H and c.745–6_810del were found in one allele (2%). Reverse transcriptase-PCR products amplified from a patient heterozygous for compound c.653C>T and c.745–6_810del mutation revealed multiple alternatively spliced mRNAs. In vitro expression analysis of a minigene consisting of exons 4–7 containing the c.653C>T yielded two transcripts in which exon 6 or exons 5 and 6 were skipped. The encoded proteins exhibited defective pregnenolone-producing ability. The c.745–6_810del mutation led to full and partial intron retention.Conclusionsp.Q258X is the most common STAR mutation in Korea. A previously reported c.653C>T variant was found to cause aberrant splicing at the mRNA level, resulting in perturbation of STAR function. The c.745–6_810del mutation also resulted in aberrant splicing.
Psychological Status as a Function of Residual Scarring and Facial Asymmetry after Surgical Repair of Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Millar Keith , Bell Aileen , Bowman Adrian , Brown Denise , Lo Tsz-Wai , Siebert Paul , Simmons David , Ayoub Ashraf 
Published: August 2011

Objective Objective measure of scarring and three-dimensional (3D) facial asymmetry after surgical correction of unilateral cleft lip (UCL) and unilateral cleft lip (UCLP). It was hypothesized that the degree of scarring or asymmetry would be correlated with poorer psychological function. Design In a cross-sectional design, children underwent 3D imaging of the face and completed standardized assessments of self-esteem, depression, and state and trait anxiety. Parents rated children's adjustment with a standard scale. Setting Glasgow Dental School, School of Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences. Patients Fifty-one children aged 10 years with UCLP and 43 with UCL were recruited from the cohort treated with the surgical protocol of the CLEFTSIS managed clinical network in Scotland. Methods Objective assessment to determine the luminance and redness of the scar and facial asymmetry. Depression, anxiety, and a self-esteem assessment battery were used for the psychological analysis. Results Cleft cases showed superior psychological adjustment when compared with normative data. Prevalence of depression matched the population norm. The visibility of the scar (luminance ratio) was significantly correlated with lower self-esteem and higher trait anxiety in UCLP children ( P = .004). Similar but nonsignificant trends were seen in the UCL group. Parental ratings of poorer adjustment also correlated with greater luminance of the scar. Conclusions The objectively defined degree of postoperative cleft scarring was associated with subclinical symptoms of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
Comparative Assessment of Dental Arch Relationships Using Goslon Yardstick in Patients with Unilateral Complete Cleft Lip and Palate Using Dental Casts, Two-Dimensional Photos, and Three-Dimensional Images
Authors: Dogan Servet , Olmez Sultan , Semb Gunvor 
Published: August 2011

Objective Comparison of the use of two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) images for rating dental arch relationships. Materials and Methods The sample consists of pretreatment dental casts, 2D photographs, and 3D images of 70 patients with unilateral complete cleft lip and palate. Two experienced examiners used the Goslon Yardstick to rate dental arch relationships. The ratings were done three times for all groups. Weighted kappa statistics were used to evaluate intra- and interrater agreement and the agreement between the groups. Results Intra- and interexaminer agreement were high for all groups (between 0.86 and 0.96), indicating very good reproducibility. The mean Goslon scores ranged between 2.84 and 2.90. Conclusion 2D and 3D imaging of dental casts provides a valid alternative for actual study models for rating dental arch relationships.
On isomorphisms of some Köthe function F-spaces
Authors: Kholomenyuk Violetta , Mykhaylyuk Volodymyr , Popov Mikhail 
Published: August 2011

Abstract
We prove that if Köthe F-spaces X and Y on finite atomless measure spaces (ΩX; ΣX, µX) and (ΩY; ΣY; µY), respectively, with absolute continuous norms are isomorphic and have the property $\mathop {\lim }\limits_{\mu (A) \to 0} \left\| {\mu (A)^{ - 1} 1_A } \right\| = 0$ (for µ = µX and µ = µY, respectively) then the measure spaces (ΩX; ΣX; µX) and (ΩY; ΣY; µY) are isomorphic, up to some positive multiples. This theorem extends a result of A. Plichko and M. Popov concerning isomorphic classification of L
p(µ)-spaces for 0 < p < 1. We also provide a new class of F-spaces having no nonzero separable quotient space.
Air quality as respiratory health indicator — a critical review
Authors: Moshammer Hanns , Wallner Peter 
Published: August 2011

AbstractAs part of the European Public Health project IMCA II validity and practicability of “air pollution” as a respiratory health indicator were analyzed. The definitions of air quality as an indicator proposed by the WHO project ECOEHIS and by IMCA I were compared. The public availability of the necessary data was checked through access to web-based data-bases. Practicability and interpretation of the indicator were discussed with project partners and external experts. Air quality serves as a kind of benchmark for the good health-related environmental policy. In this sense, it is a relevant health indicator. Although air quality is not directly in the responsibility of health policy, its vital importance for the population’s health should not be neglected. In principle, data is available to calculate this IMCA indicator for any chosen area in Europe. The indicator is relevant and informative, but calculation and interpretation need input from local expert knowledge. The European health policy is well advised to take air quality into account. To that end, an interdisciplinary approach is warranted. The proposed definition of air quality as a (respiratory) health indicator is workable, but correct interpretation depends on expert and local knowledge.
Diagnostic Value of VIA Comparing with Conventional Pap Smear in the Detection of Colposcopic Biopsy Proved CIN
Authors: Hegde Divya , Shetty Harish , Shetty Prasanna K , Rai Supriya , Manjeera Lakshmi , Vyas Neetha , Hegde Adithi , Mallya Hema , Rajesh Aparna 
Published: August 2011

Aim: A study to assess the role of visual inspection with acetic acid VIA as an alternative to Pap smear in screening program for cervical cancer in low resource settings. Method: Two hundred and twenty five women in reproductive age group attending the Gynecology department at K.S Hegde Charitable Hospital were enrolled in the study. A Papanicolaou smear and visual inspection of the cervix with acetic acid was done. All women then underwent colposcopy using the video colposcope. All patients who tested positive on screening then underwent colposcopy guided biopsy. Pap smear of Low grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) and above was taken as abnormal. The statistical test used was chi square test and results were computed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 12.0. Results: Out of 225 patients, VIA was positive in 27(12%) patients and Pap smear was abnormal in 26(11.7%). There were 15 LSIL, 6 high Grade Squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) and 5 were squamous cell carcinoma. On biopsy, there were 15 mild dysplasia, 2 moderate dysplasia, 4 severe dysplasia and 3 squamous cancers. Pap smear had a sensitivity of 83%, specificity of 98%, and positive predictive value of 80 % and negative predictive value of 97.9%. VIA had a sensitivity of 70.8%, specificity of 95%, and positive predictive value of 62.9 % and negative predictive value of 96.5%. Conclusion: Since diagnostic values of VIA is comparable to Pap smear, and it performs well in detecting high grade lesion we conclude that VIA can be used as a screening modality for cervical cancer in low resource settings. Keywords: Cervical cancer in low resource settings, Pap smear- colposcopy, visual inspection with acetic acid DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njog.v6i1.5245 NJOG 2011; 6(1): 7-12
The Persistence of Myth: Written Authority in the Wake of New World Discovery
Authors: Olesen Jan 
Published: August 2011

Abstract:“The Persistence of Myth: Written Authority in the Wake of New World Discovery” examines how classical authorities continued to influence scientific knowledge in the early modern period in spite of the emergence of more experiential and empirical methods of cosmography. Demonstrating that experiential evidence from travel literature and material evidence from the burgeoning culture of collection often endorsed rather than displaced myth, the paper argues that the preservation of myth is not a facile protection of power relations but is representative of how material reality is inherently connected to and supported by mythical structures. The paper performs a temporal short circuit, suggesting not that an impoverished early modern science failed to understand the significance of empirical evidence but that the emerging discourse of science sought a mutually sympathetic relationship among art, myth, and empirical evidence.
Strange Notes from the LA Punk Underground: The Durability of Darby Crash and the Germs
Authors: Brown Peter Robert 
Published: August 2011

Abstract:This essay examines the durability of Darby Crash, lead singer of the Germs, one of Los Angeles's earliest punk bands. Crash committed suicide in 1980, but he and the Germs continue to fascinate those familiar with their music and story. This ongoing interest is the result of numerous factors, including the Germs' music, Crash's disturbing worldview and charisma, and our more general obsession with celebrity and death. After offering a brief account of Crash's life and his involvement with the Germs, I discuss his largely closeted queerness, one of the apparent reasons behind his suicide; I consider the idea of authenticity and its importance in the ideology of rock and punk. Then, I contextualize Crash in the culture of the United States and Los Angeles in the late 1970s.
Tear into the Guts: Whitman, Steinbeck, Springsteen, and the Durability of Lost Souls on the Road
Authors: Bellamy Brent 
Published: August 2011

Abstract: This article investigates the relationship between the concepts of freedom and confinement and the metaphor of “the road” in the works of three significant American cultural figures. A close analysis of the formal elements of the poetry of Walt Whitman, the novels of John Steinbeck, and the songs of Bruce Springsteen reveals a negation at the core of durability. These narratives pit characters, readers, and listeners against the ideology of freedom that structures road narratives and American durability. Whitman's version of the road is open and apparently available to all, whereas Steinbeck's version inverts these terms, making the road a place of oppression and confinement. Beginning to unveil these contradictions, Springsteen's music grasps the weight and emptiness of the road as a cultural signifier. Finally, the article argues that only through collective thought and action within and against the contradictions inherent in durability can we stop simply persisting and start living.
“I Will Never See a Black American President in My Lifetime”: Crisis in the Black American Masculine Narrative
Authors: Stewart Anthony 
Published: August 2011

Abstract: The election of Barack Obama could not help but alter what Charles Johnson calls the “black American narrative.” This paper focuses on the endurance of the black American masculine narrative over time, how it may have changed, and what might be at stake for its future in light of Obama's election. The black American masculine narrative brings with it different implications than those in play for “black America” (however defined) more generally, including the laws of unintended consequences that find some critics looking back nostalgically to the days of segregation. The paper considers whether or not “politician” might be added to the short list of potential career aspirations for African American men and whether or not such an addition would count as progress.
Physician‐diagnosed respiratory conditions and mental health symptoms 7–9 years following the World Trade Center disaster
Authors: Webber Mayris P. , Glaser Michelle S. , Weakley Jessica , Soo Jackie , Ye Fen , Zeig‐Owens Rachel , Weiden Michael D. , Nolan Anna , Aldrich Thomas K. , Kelly Kerry , Prezant David 
Published: August 2011

AbstractBackgroundThis study examines the prevalence of physician‐diagnosed respiratory conditions and mental health symptoms in firefighters and emergency medical service workers up to 9 years after rescue/recovery efforts at the World Trade Center (WTC).MethodsWe analyzed Fire Department of New York (FDNY) physician and self‐reported diagnoses by WTC exposure and quintiles of pulmonary function (FEV1% predicted). We used screening instruments to assess probable post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and probable depression.ResultsFDNY physicians most commonly diagnosed asthma (8.8%) and sinusitis (9.7%). The highest prevalence of physician‐diagnosed obstructive airway disease (OAD) was in the lowest FEV1% predicted quintile. Participants who arrived earliest on 9/11 were more likely to have physician‐diagnosed asthma (OR = 1.4). Seven percent had probable PTSD. 19.4% had probable depression.ConclusionsSelf‐reported and physician‐diagnosed respiratory conditions remain common, especially among those who arrived earliest at the WTC site. OAD was associated with the lowest pulmonary function. Since respiratory and mental health conditions remain prevalent, ongoing monitoring and treatment is important. Am. J. Ind. Med. 54:661–671, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mutation screening of the 3q29 microdeletion syndrome candidate genes DLG1 and PAK2 in schizophrenia
Authors: Carroll L.S. , Williams H.J. , Walters J. , Kirov G. , O'Donovan M.C. , Owen M.J. 
Published: August 2011

AbstractDeletion of chromosome 3q29, which is associated with mental retardation and autism, was recently identified as being present in excess or occurring de novo in schizophrenia cases, being present in approximately 1/1,000 cases and 1/40,000 unscreened controls. Of the ∼20 genes in the commonly deleted region two are prominent candidates for involvement in the behavioral features of the microdeletion syndrome: DLG1 and PAK2. We report the result of mutation screening of the entire protein coding sequence of both genes in a sample of 234 unrelated cases and 272 unrelated controls from the UK. We find no evidence for any amino acid changing genetic variants in PAK2. We observe several rare and singleton non‐synonymous genetic variations at DLG1, however there is no excess of these variants in cases when compared to controls. Our sample was underpowered to detect very rare or low‐penetrance disease relevant alleles in the studied genes. Therefore very rare, low‐to‐moderate penetrance protein coding mutations or non‐coding mutations at DLG1 and/or PAK2, or a nearby gene, may reproduce the behavioral characteristics of the 3q29 microdeletion. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Seven‐tesla magnetic resonance images of the substantia nigra in Parkinson disease
Authors: Kwon Dae‐Hyuk , Kim Jong‐Min , Oh Se‐Hong , Jeong Hye‐Jin , Park Sung‐Yeon , Oh Eung‐Seok , Chi Je‐Geun , Kim Young‐Bo , Jeon Beom S. , Cho Zang‐Hee 
Published: August 2011

AbstractObjective:To investigate anatomical changes in the substantia nigra (SN) of Parkinson disease (PD) patients with age‐matched controls by using ultra‐high field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).Methods:We performed 7T MRI in 10 PD and 10 age‐matched control subjects. Magnetic resonance images of the SN were obtained from a 3‐dimensional (3D) T2*‐weighted gradient echo sequence. Region of interest‐based 3D shape analysis was performed to quantitatively compare images from the 2 groups.Results:The boundary between the SN and crus cerebri was not smooth in PD subjects. Undulation in the lateral surface of the SN appeared more intense in the side contralateral to that with the more severe symptoms, and more prominent at the rostral level of the SN than at the intermediate or caudal levels. In addition to the lateral surface, there was a striking difference in the dorsomedial aspects of the SN between PD and control subjects. In control subjects, a brighter signal region was observed along the dorsomedial surface of the lateral portion of SN, whereas in PD subjects, this region was observed as a dark region containing a hypointense signal in T2*‐weighted images. The measurement of SN volumes, normalized to the intracranial volumes, showed higher values in PD subjects than in control subjects.Interpretation:This study demonstrates that 3D 7T MRI can definitively visualize anatomical alterations occurring in the SN of PD subjects. Further pathological studies are required to elucidate the nature of these anatomical alterations. Ann Neurol 2012;71:267–277