bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Longitudinal MRI contrast enhanced monitoring of early tumour development with manganese chloride (MnCl2) and superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIOs) in a CT1258 based in vivo model of prostate cancer
Authors: Sterenczak Katharina A , Meier Martin , Glage Silke , Meyer Matthias , Willenbrock Saskia , Wefstaedt Patrick , Dorsch Martina , Bullerdiek Jörn , Escobar Hugo Murua , Hedrich Hans , Nolte Ingo 
Published: July 2012

AbstractBackgroundCell lines represent a key tool in cancer research allowing the generation of neoplasias which resemble initial tumours inin-vivoanimal models. The characterisation of early tumour development is of major interest in order to evaluate the efficacy of therapeutic agents. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) basedin-vivocharacterisation allows visualisation and characterisation of tumour development in early stages prior to manual palpation. Contrast agents for MRI such as superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIOs) and manganese chloride (MnCl2) represent powerful tools for thein-vivocharacterisation of early stage tumours. In this experimental study, we labelled prostate cancer cells with MnCl2or SPIOsin vitroand used 1 T MRI for tracing labelled cellsin-vitroand 7 T MRI for tracking in anin-vivoanimal model.MethodsLabelling of prostate cancer cells CT1258 was establishedin-vitrowith MnCl2and SPIOs.In-vitrodetection of labelled cells in an agar phantom was carried out through 1 T MRI whilein-vivodetection was performed using 7 T MRI after subcutaneous (s.c.) injection of labelled cells into NOD-Scid mice (n = 20). The animals were scanned in regular intervals until euthanization. The respective tumour volumes were analysed and corresponding tumour masses were subjected to histologic examination.ResultsMnCl2in-vitrolabelling resulted in no significant metabolic effects on proliferation and cell vitality.In-vitrodetection-limit accounted 105cells for MnCl2as well as for SPIOs labelling.In-vivo7 T MRI scans allowed detection of 103and 104cells.In-vivoMnCl2labelled cells were detectable from days 4–16 while SPIO labelling allowed detection until 4 days after s.c. injection. MnCl2labelled cells were highly tumourigenic in NOD-Scid mice and the tumour volume development was characterised in a time dependent manner. The amount of injected cells correlated with tumour size development and disease progression. Histological analysis of the induced tumour masses demonstrated characteristic morphologies of prostate adenocarcinoma.ConclusionsTo the best of our knowledge, this is the first study reporting directin-vitroMnCl2labelling and 7 T basedin-vivoMRI tracing of cancer cells in a model of prostate cancer. MnCl2labelling was found to be suitable forin-vivotracing allowing long detection periods. The labelled cells kept their highly tumourigenic potentialin-vivo.Tumour volume development was visualised prior to manual palpation allowing tumour characterisation in early stages of the disease.
Pediatricians’ assessments of caries risk and need for a dental evaluation in preschool aged children
Authors: Long C Marshall , Quinonez Rocio B , Beil Heather A , Close Kelly , Myers Larry P , Vann William F , Rozier R Gary 
Published: July 2012

AbstractBackgroundRisk-based prioritization of dental referrals during well-child visits might improve dental access for infants and toddlers. This study identifies pediatrician-assessed risk factors for early childhood caries (ECC) and their association with the need for a dentist’s evaluation.MethodsA priority oral health risk assessment and referral tool (PORRT) for children<36 months was developed collaboratively by physicians and dentists and used by 10 pediatricians during well-child visits. PORRT documented behavioral, clinical, and child health risks for ECC. Pediatricians also assessed overall ECC risk on an 11-point scale and determined the need for a dental evaluation. Logistic regression models calculated the odds for evaluation need for each risk factor and according to a 3-level risk classification.ResultsIn total 1,288 PORRT forms were completed; 6.8% of children were identified as needing a dentist evaluation. Behavioral risk factors were prevalent but not strong predictors of the need for an evaluation. The child’s overall caries risk was the strongest predictor of the need for an evaluation. Cavitated (OR = 17.5; 95% CI = 8.08, 37.97) and non-cavitated (OR = 6.9; 95% CI = 4.47, 10.82) lesions were the strongest predictors when the caries risk scale was excluded from the analysis. Few patients (6.3%) were classified as high risk, but their probability of needing an evaluation was only 0.36.ConclusionsLow referral rates for children with disease and prior to disease onset but at elevated risk, indicate interventions are needed to help improve the dental referral rates of physicians.
Development of an optimized tetracycline-inducible expression system to increase the accumulation of interleukin-10 in tobacco BY-2 suspension cells
Authors: Bortesi Luisa , Rademacher Thomas , Schiermeyer Andreas , Schuster Flora , Pezzotti Mario , Schillberg Stefan 
Published: July 2012

AbstractBackgroundPlant cell suspension cultures can be used for the production of valuable pharmaceutical and industrial proteins. When the recombinant protein is secreted into the culture medium, restricting expression to a defined growth phase can improve both the quality and quantity of the recovered product by minimizing proteolytic activity. Temporal restriction is also useful for recombinant proteins whose constitutive expression affects cell growth and viability, such as viral interleukin-10 (vIL-10).ResultsWe have developed a novel, tetracycline-inducible system suitable for tobacco BY-2 suspension cells which increases the yields of vIL-10. The new system is based on a binary vector that is easier to handle than conventional vectors, contains an enhanced inducible promoter and 5′-UTR to improve yields, and incorporates a constitutively-expressed visible marker gene to allow the rapid and straightforward selection of the most promising transformed clones. Stable transformation of BY-2 cells with this vector, without extensive optimization of the induction conditions, led to a 3.5 fold increase in vIL-10 levels compared to constitutive expression in the same host.ConclusionsWe have developed an effective and straightforward molecular farming platform technology that improves both the quality and the quantity of recombinant proteins produced in plant cells, particularly those whose constitutive expression has a negative impact on plant growth and development. Although we tested the platform using vIL-10 produced in BY-2 cells, it can be applied to other host/product combinations and is also useful for basic research requiring strictly controlled transgene expression.
NF-κB p65 repression by the sesquiterpene lactone, Helenalin, contributes to the induction of autophagy cell death
Authors: Lim Chuan Bian , Fu Pan You , Ky Nung , Zhu Hong Shuang , Feng XiaoLing , Li Jinming , Srinivasan Kandhadayar Gopalan , Hamza Mohamed Sabry , Zhao Yan 
Published: July 2012

Abstract

Background
Numerous studies have demonstrated that autophagy plays a vital role in maintaining cellular homeostasis. Interestingly, several anticancer agents were found to exert their anticancer effects by triggering autophagy. Emerging data suggest that autophagy represents a novel mechanism that can be exploited for therapeutic benefit. Pharmacologically active natural compounds such as those from marine, terrestrial plants and animals represent a promising resource for novel anticancer drugs. There are several prominent examples from the past proving the success of natural products and derivatives exhibiting anticancer activity. Helenalin, a sesquiterpene lactone has been demonstrated to have potent anti-inflammatory and antitumor activity. Albeit previous studies demonstrating helenalin’s multi modal action on cellular proliferative and apoptosis, the mechanisms underlying its action are largely unexplained.

Methods
To deduce the mechanistic action of helenalin, cancer cells were treated with the drug at various concentrations and time intervals. Using western blot, FACS analysis, overexpression and knockdown studies, cellular signaling pathways were interrogated focusing on apoptosis and autophagy markers.

Results
We show here that helenalin induces sub-G1 arrest, apoptosis, caspase cleavage and increases the levels of the autophagic markers. Suppression of caspase cleavage by the pan caspase inhibitor, Z-VAD-fmk, suppressed induction of LC3-B and Atg12 and reduced autophagic cell death, indicating caspase activity was essential for autophagic cell death induced by helenalin. Additionally, helenalin suppressed NF-κB p65 expression in a dose and time dependent manner. Exogenous overexpression of p65 was accompanied by reduced levels of cell death whereas siRNA mediated suppression led to augmented levels of caspase cleavage, autophagic cell death markers and increased cell death.

Conclusions
Taken together, these results show that helenalin mediated autophagic cell death entails inhibition of NF-κB p65, thus providing a promising approach for the treatment of cancers with aberrant activation of the NF-κB pathway.
Enhanced photoluminescence of multilayer Ge quantum dots on Si(001) substrates by increased overgrowth temperature
Authors: Liu Zhi , Cheng Buwen , Hu Weixuan , Su Shaojian , Li Chuanbo , Wang Qiming 
Published: July 2012

Abstract
Four-bilayer Ge quantum dots (QDs) with Si spacers were grown on Si(001) substrates by ultrahigh vacuum chemical vapor deposition. In three samples, all Ge QDs were grown at 520 °C, while Si spacers were grown at various temperatures (520 °C, 550 °C, and 580 °C). Enhancement and redshift of room temperature photoluminescence (PL) were observed from the samples in which Si spacers were grown at a higher temperature. The enhancement of PL is explained by higher effective electrons capturing in the larger size Ge QDs. Quantum confinement of the Ge QDs is responsible for the redshift of PL spectra. The Ge QDs’ size and content were investigated by atomic force microscopy and Raman scattering measurements.
Long lasting complete molecular remission after suspending dasatinib treatment in chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Gadó Klára , Matolcsy András , Csomor Judit , Kicsi Dóra , Bödör Csaba , Domján Gyula 
Published: July 2012

Abstract
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors specific for BCR-ABL, were a major breakthrough in CML therapy. Second generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors (dasatinib, nilotinib) are indicated for imatinib resistant and intolerant patients. Present guidelines recommend continuous drug dosing for maintaining remission. There is no available data concerning the optimal duration of dasatinib therapy. We report the case of an imatinib intolerant patient who succeeded a complete molecular remission with dasatinib. Dasatinib was stopped bacause of intolerance, but complete molecular remission was sustained for one year and minor molecular remission for 27 months after discontinuation of dasatinib.
Induction of Bcl-3 by acute binge alcohol results in Toll-like receptor 4/LPS tolerance
Authors: Bala Shashi , Tang Alexander , Catalano Donna , Petrasek Jan , Taha Odette , Kodys Karen , Szabo Gyongyi 
Published: July 2012

Abstract
Induction of TLR4/LPS tolerance by acute binge alcohol introduces a new aspect of the complex biological effects of this commonly used substance.
Acute alcohol binge results in immunosuppression and impaired production of proinflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α. TNF-α production is induced by LPS, a TLR4 ligand, and is tightly regulated at various levels of the signaling cascade, including the NF-κB transcription factor. Here, we hypothesized that acute alcohol induces TLR4/LPS tolerance via Bcl-3, a nuclear protein and member of the NF-κB family. We found that acute alcohol pretreatment resulted in the same attenuating effect as LPS pretreatment on TLR4-induced TNF-α production in human monocytes and murine RAW 264.7 macrophages. Acute alcohol-induced Bcl-3 expression and IP studies revealed increased association of Bcl-3 with NF-κB p50 homodimers in alcohol-treated macrophages and in mice. ChIP assays revealed increased occupancy of Bcl-3 and p50 at the promoter region of TNF-α in alcohol-pretreated cells. To confirm that the Bcl-3–p50 complex regulates transcription/production of TNF-α during acute alcohol exposure, we inhibited Bcl-3 expression using a targeted siRNA. Bcl-3 knockdown prevented the alcohol-induced inhibition of TNF-α mRNA and protein production. In a mouse model of binge alcohol, an increase in Bcl-3 and a concomitant decrease in TNF-α but no change in IL-10 production were found in mice that received alcohol followed by LPS challenge. In summary, our novel data suggest that acute alcohol treatment in vitro and in vivo induces molecular signatures of TLR4/LPS tolerance through the induction of Bcl-3, a negative regulator of TNF-α transcription via its association with NF-κB p50/p50 dimers.
Mapping estimated deep drainage in the lower Namoi Valley using a chloride mass balance model and EM34 data
Authors: Woodforth A. , Triantafilis J. , Cupitt J. , Malik R. S. , Subasinghe R. , Ahmed M. F. , Huckel A. I. , Geering H. 
Published: July 2012

The Murray Darling Basin accounts for half of all water used for irrigation in Australia. However, improvements in water use efficiency (WUE) are required, owing to increasing demands on water (e.g., environmental flows). This requires data on the spatial distribution of soil-hydrological properties, such as deep drainage (DD). Measuring DD using lysimeters, although accurate, is site-specific. Alternatively, estimates are commonly made using chloride mass balance (CMB) models. Gaining this information across a large area is still problematic due to the prohibitive cost of drilling, sampling, and laboratory analysis. Ancillary data, obtained from electromagnetic (EM) instruments, have been used to add value to a limited number of DD estimates. We evaluated the use of a hierarchical spatial regression technique to map the estimated DD using a steady state CMB model coupled to EM34 measurements. We first compared a standard least squares and a stepwise multiple linear regression model. The former includes the use of EM34 signal data in the horizontal (EM34-10H, EM34-20H, and EM34-40H) and vertical (EM34-10V, EM34-20V, and EM34-40V) dipoles, as well as two trend surface variables (scaled easting and northing). The latter model only includes a statistically significant ancillary variable (EM34-10H) and a trend surface parameter (scaled northing), and we use this to estimate DD across the lower Namoi Valley. EM34 data available on a 1 km grid proved useful for mapping DD on a reconnaissance level, with the results closely related to the physiography. In particular, large DD estimates are associated with the prior stream channels. Conversely, smaller DD estimates characterize the agriculturally significant clay plain which is used extensively for irrigated cotton production. The map of estimated DD will allow improved siting of dams and irrigation fields, as well as indicate where more efficient cropping or irrigation systems can be implemented to increase WUE.
Locomotion on a slope in leaf-cutter ants: metabolic energy use, behavioural adaptations and the implications for route selection on hilly terrain
Authors: Holt Natalie C. , Askew Graham N. 
Published: July 2012

SUMMARYThe metabolic cost of the negotiation of obstacles, and the influence that this has on route selection, are important determinants of an animal's locomotor behaviour. We determined the gross metabolic cost of locomotion on slopes of different gradients, ranging from –90 to +90 deg, in leaf-cutter ants (Acromyrmex octospinosus) in a closed-circuit respirometry system. Ants were able to select their preferred speed for each gradient. The gross metabolic energy expenditure per unit distance travelled on the slope (Cpath) was calculated from the rate of CO2 production and the speed of locomotion. These data were used to predict the optimal slopes for minimising the vertical cost of locomotion and vertical journey time. The gross rate of CO2 production was approximately constant (1.7 ml g–1 h–1) and was not significantly affected by slope. Ants moderated their speed with slope (P&lt;0.05), travelling the fastest during level locomotion (2.0±0.1 cm s–1, N=20) and increasingly slowly with increased gradient (both on an incline and a decline). Cpath varied significantly with slope, being lowest during level locomotion (646.0±51.2 J kg–1 m–1) and increasing with increasing gradient. These results suggest that ants adapt their locomotor behaviour to keep metabolic rate constant despite changing mechanical demands. It is predicted that when undertaking a journey involving vertical displacement that ants will select routes with a gradient of between 51 and 57 deg during ascent and with a gradient of between –45 and –51 deg during descent, in order to minimise both vertical journey time and vertical cost of locomotion.
Analytical methods for the geometric optics of thermal vision illustrated with four species of pitvipers
Authors: Bakken George S. , Colayori Samantha E. , Duong Taihung 
Published: July 2012

SUMMARYThe pitviper facial pit is a pinhole camera-like sensory organ consisting of a flask-shaped cavity divided into two chambers by a suspended membrane. Neurophysiological studies and simplified optical models suggest that facial pits detect thermal radiation and form an image that is combined with visual input in the optic tectum to form a single multispectral image. External pit anatomy varies markedly among taxonomic groups. However, optical function depends on unknown internal anatomy. Therefore, we developed methods for relating anatomy to optical performance. To illustrate, we constructed detailed anatomical models of the internal anatomy of the facial pits of four individuals of four pitviper species using X-ray tomography sections of fresh material. We used these models to define the point spread function, i.e. the distribution of radiation from a point source over the pit membrane, for each species. We then used optical physics, heat transfer physics and computational image processing to define the thermal image formed on the pit membrane for each species. Our computed pit membrane images are consistent with behavioral observations if the sensitivity of membrane receptors equals the most sensitive (ca. 0.001°C) laboratory estimates. Vignetting (variation in optical aperture size with view angle) and differences between body and environmental temperatures can create temperature variation across the membrane that greatly exceeds image temperature contrasts, potentially impairing imaging. Spread functions plotted versus source point azimuth and elevation show distinct patterns that suggest new research directions into the relationships among the optical anatomy, ecology, behavior and sensory neurophysiology of pitvipers.
Insulin signalling in mushroom body neurons regulates feeding behaviour inDrosophilalarvae
Authors: Zhao Xiao Li , Campos Ana Regina 
Published: July 2012

SUMMARYWhereas the pivotal role of insulin signalling in cell division, growth and differentiation is well documented, its role in the regulation of neuronal function and behaviour has recently become the focus of intense investigation. The simple organization of the Drosophila larval brain and the availability of genetic tools to impair the function of insulin receptor signalling in a spatially specific manner makes Drosophila an attractive model to investigate the role of the insulin pathway in specific behaviours. Here, we show that impairment of insulin signalling in the mushroom body neurons, a structure involved in associative learning, impairs feeding behaviour in the Drosophila larva.
Pupil light reflex in the Atlantic brief squid, Lolliguncula brevis
Authors: McCormick Lillian R. , Cohen Jonathan H. 
Published: July 2012

SUMMARY
Coleoid behavioral ecology is highly visual and requires an eye capable of forming images in a variety of photic conditions. A variable pupil aperture is one feature that contributes to this visual flexibility in most coleoids, although pupil responses have yet to be quantitatively documented for squid. The pupil light reflex (PLR) of the Atlantic brief squid, Lolliguncula brevis, was analyzed by directly exposing one eye of individual squid to light stimuli of varying irradiance and imaging the reflex, while simultaneously recording from the opposite, indirectly stimulated eye to determine whether the constriction was consensual between eyes. A PLR was measured in L. brevis, with an asymmetrical constriction observed under increasing irradiance levels that was not consensual between eyes, although a response of some level was observed in both eyes. Response thresholds ranged between 12.56 and 12.66 log photons cm–2 s–1. The PLR was rapid and dependent upon the stimulus irradiance, achieving half-maximum constriction within 0.49–1.2 s. The spectral responsivity of the PLR was analyzed by measuring the magnitude of the reflex in the eye directly stimulated by light of equal quantal intensity at wavelengths from 410 to 632 nm. The responsivity curve showed a maximum at 500 nm, indicating the eye is especially well suited for vision at twilight. These results, when considered in the context of the ambient light characteristics, show that the PLR of L. brevis contributes to a dynamic visual system capable of adjusting to the highly variable composition of light in its estuarine habitat.
Characterization of a β-adrenergic-like octopamine receptor from the rice stem borer (Chilo suppressalis)
Authors: Wu Shun-Fan , Yao Yao , Huang Jia , Ye Gong-Yin 
Published: July 2012

SUMMARY
Octopamine, the invertebrate counterpart of adrenaline and noradrenaline, plays a key role in regulation of many physiological and behavioral processes in insects. It modulates these functions through binding to specific octopamine receptors, which are typical rhodopsin-like G-protein coupled receptors. A cDNA encoding a seven-transmembrane receptor was cloned from the nerve cord of the rice stem borer, Chilo suppressalis, viz. CsOA2B2, which shares high sequence similarity to CG6989, a Drosophila β-adrenergic-like octopamine receptor (DmOctβ2R). We generated an HEK-293 cell line that stably expresses CsOA2B2 in order to examine the functional and pharmacological properties of this receptor. Activation of CsOA2B2 by octopamine increased the production of cAMP in a dose-dependent manner (EC50=2.33 nmol l–1), with a maximum response at 100 nmol l–1. Tyramine also activated the receptor but with much less potency than octopamine. Dopamine and serotonin had marginal effects on cAMP production. Using a series of known agonists and antagonists for octopamine receptors, we observed a rather unique pharmacological profile for CsOA2B2 through measurements of cAMP. The rank order of potency of the agonists was naphazoline &gt; clonidine. The activated effect of octopamine is abolished by co-incubation with phentolamine, mianserin or chlorpromazine. Using in vivo pharmacology, CsOA2B2 antagonists mianserin and phentolamine impaired the motor ability of individual rice stem borers. The results of the present study are important for a better functional understanding of this receptor as well as for practical applications in the development of environmentally sustainable pesticides.