bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Endothelin-1-induced oxidative stress in DOCA-salt hypertension involves NADPH-oxidase-independent mechanisms
Authors: Callera Glaucia E. , Tostes Rita C. , Yogi Alvaro , Montezano Augusto C. I. , Touyz Rhian M. 
Published: January 2006

We have demonstrated recently [Callera, Touyz, Teixeira, Muscara, Carvalho, Fortes, Schiffrin and Tostes (2003) Hypertension 42, 811–817] that increased vascular oxidative stress in DOCA (deoxycorticosterone acetate)-salt rats is associated with activation of the ET (endothelin) system via ETA receptors. The exact source of ET-1-mediated oxidative stress remains unclear. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether ET-1 increases generation of ROS (reactive oxygen species) in DOCA-salt hypertension through NADPH-oxidase-dependent mechanisms. Xanthine oxidase, eNOS (endothelial nitric oxide synthase) and COX-2 (cyclo-oxygenase-2) were also examined as potential ET-1 sources of ROS as well as mitochondrial respiration. DOCA-salt and control UniNX (uninephrectomized) rats were treated with the ETA antagonist BMS182874 (40 mg·day−1·kg−1 of body weight) or vehicle. Plasma TBARS (thiobarbituric acid-reacting substances) were increased in DOCA-salt compared with UniNX rats. Activity of NADPH and xanthine oxidases in aorta, mesenteric arteries and heart was increased in DOCA-salt rats. BMS182874 decreased plasma TBARS levels without influencing NADPH and xanthine oxidase activities in DOCA-salt rats. Increased p22phox protein expression and increased p47phox membrane translocation in arteries from DOCA-salt by rats were not affected by BMS182874 treatment. Increased eNOS and COX-2 expression, also observed in aortas from DOCA-salt rats, was unaltered by BMS182874. Increased mitochondrial generation of ROS in DOCA-salt rats was normalized by BMS182874. ETA antagonism also increased the expression of mitochondrial MnSOD (manganese superoxide dismutase) in DOCA-salt rats. In conclusion, activation of NADPH oxidase does not seem to be the major source of oxidative stress induced by ET-1/ETA in DOCA-salt hypertension, which also appears to be independent of increased activation of xanthine oxidase or eNOS/COX-2 overexpression. Mitochondria may play a role in ET-1-driven oxidative stress, as evidenced by increased mitochondrial-derived ROS in this model of hypertension.
A single‐base change in the tyrosine kinase II domain of ovine FGFR3 causes hereditary chondrodysplasia in sheep
Authors: Beever J. E. , Smit M. A. , Meyers S. N. , Hadfield T. S. , Bottema C. , Albretsen J. , Cockett N. E. 
Published: January 2006

SummaryOvine hereditary chondrodysplasia, or spider lamb syndrome (SLS), is a genetic disorder that is characterized by severe skeletal abnormalities and has resulted in substantial economic losses for sheep producers. Here we demonstrate that a non‐synonymous T>A transversion in the highly conserved tyrosine kinase II domain of a positional candidate gene, fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3), is responsible for SLS. We also demonstrate that the mutant FGFR3 allele has an additive effect on long‐bone length, calling into question the long‐standing belief that SLS is inherited as a strict monogenic, Mendelian recessive trait. Instead, we suggest that SLS manifestation is determined primarily by the presence of the mutant FGFR3 allele, but it is also influenced by an animal's genetic background. In contrast to FGFR3 mutations causing dwarfism in humans, this single‐base change is the only known natural mutation of FGFR3 that results in a skeletal overgrowth phenotype in any species.
Psychometric evaluation of the Hendrich Fall Risk Model
Authors: Heinze Cornelia , Halfens Ruud J.G. , Roll Stephanie , Dassen Theo 
Published: January 2006

Aims.  The aim of this paper is to report a psychometric evaluation of the Hendrich Fall Risk Model.Background.  Thoroughly developed and tested instruments for assessment of fall risk are needed to identify patients at risk of falling, to enable the implementation of preventative measures.Method.  Data from 1977 patients/residents in 45 nursing homes and 7197 patients from 47 hospitals were evaluated in a cross‐sectional survey. The internal consistency of the Hendrich Fall Risk Model was examined using the Kuder–Richardson Test. The dimensions of the model were revealed by exploratory factor analysis and the Care Dependency Scale was used to investigate construct validity. Using Spearman Rho the sum of weighted items was correlated with the sum of unweighted items to obtain information about the practicability of a weighted total score. The study was carried out in 2003.Results.  The internal consistency of the model was not high (α = 0·54). Additionally, factor analysis showed that the model had more than one dimension. The correlation between the fall risk model and Care Dependency Scale was quite high for hospital patients and the total group (Spearman Rho = −0·71 or −0·76 respectively, P < 0·01) and medium for nursing home residents (Spearman Rho = −0·51, P < 0·01). The total scores of the weighted and unweighted items correlated highly (Spearman Rho = 0·96, P < 0·01).Conclusions.  The use of this risk model is not recommended for nursing homes. For hospitals, we advise the use of unweighted items.
Microstructure of pharyngeal tooth enameloid in the parrotfish Scarus rivulatus (Pisces: Scaridae)
Authors: CARR A. , KEMP A. , TIBBETTS I. , TRUSS R. , DRENNAN J. 
Published: January 2006

SummaryThe microstructure of parrotfish pharyngeal teeth was examined using scanning electron microscopy to infer possible mechanical properties of the dentition with respect to their function. Parrotfish tooth enameloid is formed from fluorapatite crystals grouped into bundles. In the upper and lower pharyngeal jaw, the majority of the crystal bundles are orientated either perpendicularly or vertically to the enameloid surface. The only exception is in the trailing apical enameloid in which the majority of bundles are orientated perpendicularly or horizontally to the trailing surface. A distinct transition occurs through the middle of the apex between the leading and trailing enameloid in teeth of the lower pharyngeal jaw. This transition appears less distinct in the teeth of the upper pharyngeal jaw. Enameloid microstructure indicates that shear forces predominate at the apex of the teeth. In the remainder of the enameloid, the microstructure indicates that wear is predominant, and the shear forces are of less importance.
An approach to the systematic distortion correction in aberration‐corrected HAADF images
Authors: SANCHEZ A. M. , GALINDO P. L. , KRET S. , FALKE M. , BEANLAND R. , GOODHEW P. J. 
Published: January 2006

SummarySystematic distortion has been analysed in high‐angle annular dark‐field (HAADF) images which may be caused by electrical interference. Strain mapping techniques have been applied to a strain‐free GaAs substrate in order to provide a broad analysis of the influence of this distortion on the determination of local strain in the heterostructure. We have developed a methodology for estimating the systematic distortion, and we correct the original images by using an algorithm that removes this systematic distortion.
On the accuracy of lattice‐distortion analysis directly from high‐resolution transmission electron micrographs
Authors: DU K. , PHILLIPP F. 
Published: January 2006

SummaryLattice‐distortion analysis from high‐resolution transmission electron micrographs offers a convenient and fast tool for direct measurement of strains in materials over a large area. In the present work, we have evaluated the accuracy of the strain measurement when the effects of the realistic experimental variables are explicitly taken into account by the use of image simulation techniques. These variables are focal setting and variation, local thickness and orientation of the sample, as well as misalignments of the sample and the incident beam. The evaluation reveals that consistency of image features and contrast within the micrographs is desired for the analysis to eliminate effects of the variations of local focus value and specimen thickness. After proper orientation of a crystalline specimen, the misorientation of the object will not notably influence the strain measurement even though a local bending may exist within the sample. However, the incident beam of the microscope needs to be aligned carefully as the beam misalignment may introduce a notable artefact around the interface region.
A simple and stable autofocusing protocol for long multidimensional live cell microscopy
Authors: WOLF F. , GELEY S. 
Published: January 2006

SummaryFocus maintenance is a challenging problem in multidimensional wide‐field microscopy. Most automated microscopes use software algorithms, which are applied to z‐sections of the object, to select for the plane with the best signal to noise ratio. When applied automatically in multidimensional imaging applications, autofocus routines significantly increase light exposure and can become cytotoxic if applied too frequently. In addition, automated focusing procedures can readily focus on unwanted high contrast objects. By labelling a defined position with a fluorescent marker, we were able to separate the focusing procedure from the actual image acquisition positions and therefore overcome some of the major drawbacks of routine autofocus procedures. To implement this method in a multidimensional acquisition experiment, we created a visual basic‐based program, which is run prior to each image acquisition. This technique allows tight control of focus whilst keeping light toxicity in live cell imaging experiments to a minimum.
Bitumen morphologies by phase‐detection atomic force microscopy
Authors: MASSON J‐F. , LEBLOND V. , MARGESON J. 
Published: January 2006

SummaryBitumen is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons for which microstructural knowledge is incomplete. In an effort to detail this microstructure, 13 bitumens were analysed by phase‐detection atomic force microscopy. Based on morphology, the bitumens could be classified into three distinct groups. One group showed fine domains down to 0.1 µm, another showed domains of about 1 µm, and a third group showed up to four different domains or phases of different sizes and shapes. No correlation was found between the atomic force microscopy morphology and the composition based on asphaltenes, polar aromatics, naphthene aromatics and saturates. A high correlation was found between the area of the ‘bee‐like’ structures and the vanadium and nickel content in bitumen, and between the atomic force microscopy groups and the average size of molecular planes made of fused aromatics. The morphology and the molecular arrangements in bitumen thus appear to be partly governed by the molecular planes and the polarity defined by metallic cations.
Aspects regarding measurement of thickness of intergranular glassy films
Authors: BHATTACHARYYA S. , SUBRAMANIAM A. , KOCH C. T. , RÜHLE M. 
Published: January 2006

SummaryMaterials such as Si3N4, SiC and SrTiO3 can have grain boundaries characterized by the presence of a thin intergranular amorphous film of nearly constant thickness, in some cases (e.g. Si3N4) almost independent of the orientation of the bounding grains, but dependent on the composition of the ceramic. Microscopy techniques such as high‐resolution lattice fringe imaging, Fresnel fringe imaging and diffuse dark field imaging have been applied to the study of intergranular glassy films. The theme of the current investigation is the use of Fresnel fringes and Fourier filtering for the measurement of the thickness of intergranular glassy films. Fresnel fringes hidden in high‐resolution micrographs can be used to objectively demarcate the glass–crystal interface and to measure the thickness of intergranular glassy films. Image line profiles obtained from Fourier filtering the high‐resolution micrographs can yield better estimates of the thickness. Using image simulation, various kinds of deviation from an ideal square‐well potential profile and their effects on the Fresnel image contrast are considered. A method is also put forth to objectively retrieve Fresnel fringe spacing data by Fourier filtering Fresnel contrast images. Difficulties arising from the use of the standard Fresnel fringe extrapolation technique are outlined and an alternative method for the measurement of the thickness of intergranular glassy films, based on zero‐defocus (in‐focus) Fresnel contrast images is suggested. The experimental work is from two ceramic systems: Lu‐Mg‐doped Si3N4 and SrTiO3 (stoichiometric and nonstoichiometric). Further, a comparison is made between the standard high‐resolution lattice fringe technique, the standard Fresnel fringe extrapolation technique and the methods of analyses introduced in the current work, to illustrate their utility and merits. Taking experimental difficulties into account, this work is intended to be a practical tool kit for the study of intergranular glassy films.
Analysis of protein phosphorylation: methods and strategies for studying kinases and substrates
Authors: Peck Scott C. 
Published: January 2006

SummaryProtein phosphorylation is a highly conserved mechanism for regulating protein function, being found in all prokaryotes and eukaryotes examined. Phosphorylation can alter protein activity or subcellular localization, target proteins for degradation and effect dynamic changes in protein complexes. In many cases, different kinases may be involved in each of these processes for a single protein, allowing a large degree of combinatorial regulation at the post‐translational level. Therefore, knowing which kinases are activated during a response and which proteins are substrates is integral to understanding the mechanistic regulation of a wide range of biological processes. In this paper, I will describe methods for monitoring kinase activity, investigating kinase–substrate specificity, examining phosphorylationin plantaand the determination of phosphorylation sites in a protein. In addition, strategic considerations for experimental design and variables will be discussed.
Transactivated and chemically inducible gene expression in plants
Authors: Moore Ian , Samalova Marketa , Kurup Smita 
Published: January 2006

SummarySeveral vector systems are available for tissue‐specific transactivation or chemical induction of transgene expression in plants. The choice facing researchers is which promoter system to commit to as this determines the range and characteristics of the expression resources available. The decision will not be the same for all species or applications. We present some general discussion on the use of these technologies and review in detail the properties in various (mainly angiosperm) species of the most promising: mGal4:VP16/UAS and pOp/LhG4 for transactivation, and the alc‐switch, GVE/VGE, GVG, pOp6/LhGR, and XVE systems for chemical induction.
Study of Fas (CD95) and FasL (CD178) polymorphisms in liver transplant recipients
Authors: Marín L. A. , Muro M. , Moya‐Quiles M. R. , Miras M. , Minguela A. , Bermejo J. , Sanchez‐Bueno F. , Parrilla P. , Alvarez‐López M. R. 
Published: January 2006

AbstractThe Fas receptor is capable of transducing apoptotic cell death upon interaction with their ligand (FasL). Recent studies suggest that the Fas/FasL system is involved both in graft rejection and in transplantation tolerance. In this study, we analyzed the effect of Fas and FasL polymorphisms in liver allograft outcome. Fas and FasL polymorphisms were analyzed in 151 primary liver graft recipients. The Fas (−670 A/G) and the FasL (IVS2nt −124 A/G and IVS3nt 169 T/delT) polymorphisms were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism. Fas −1377 G/A polymorphism was determined by allele‐specific amplification. Fas and FasL polymorphisms were not associated with acute and chronic rejection in liver transplant. In contrast, those recipients bearing the AA −670 Fas genotype showed significantly lower graft survival rate (S = 40%) than those bearing the GA genotype (S = 63.1%). These differences were detected from the first year post‐transplant. Multivariate analysis confirmed that the AA genotype increased the risk of liver graft loss. This work suggests for the first time a possible harmful effect of Fas −670 AA genotype on liver graft survival, whereas the Fas and FasL polymorphisms are not associated with acute or chronic rejection in liver graft recipients.
Identification and analysis of MHC class II DRB1 (Patr‐DRB1) alleles in chimpanzees
Authors: Bak E. J. , Ishii Y. , Omatsu T. , Kyuwa S. , Tetsuya T. , Hayasaka I. , Yoshikawa Y. 
Published: January 2006

AbstractThe MHC‐DRB1 gene is known to display the most extensive allelic polymorphisms among MHC class II genes. We attempted the selective identification of chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) DRB1 (Patr‐DRB1) alleles using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique in three steps: first, we performed Patr‐DRB1*02 lineage‐specific 8‐kb PCR for *02 lineage detection in each chimpanzee; second, we performed 620‐bp PCR for amplification of full‐length exon 2; and finally, we carried out an insert check using the pattern of microsatellite repeat length variability. In the genomic DNA of 23 chimpanzees, nine Patr‐DRB1 alleles containing two new alleles were detected. Our approach provides a relatively effective method of identifying Patr‐DRB1 alleles in individual chimpanzees and should also contribute to our understanding of the features of MHC molecules in non‐human primates.
HLA‐G levels in serum and plasma
Authors: Rudstein‐Svetlicky N. , Loewenthal R. , Horejsi V. , Gazit E. 
Published: January 2006

AbstractHLA‐G belongs to the non‐classical HLA class‐I family of genes presently designated as class‐Ib genes. There are four membrane‐bound (HLA‐G1 to ‐G4) and three soluble forms (HLA‐G5 to ‐G7) generated by alternative splicing of the primary transcript. HLA‐G in the soluble form is found in the plasma, amniotic fluid, and cord blood of healthy individuals. Quantitative determination suggested that HLA‐G levels are genetically controlled. While quantifying soluble HLA‐G by ELISA, we observed that when plasma and serum levels were measured for the same individual, HLA‐G plasma values were almost invariably higher than those from serum. Our results suggest that HLA‐G is trapped and/or consumed during clot formation. The amount trapped within the clot is variable and inconsistent. To obtain values which reflect the true biological levels, it is therefore recommended that HLA‐G should be determined in the plasma. If serum levels are determined, they should be compared with matched control sera. It should always be borne in mind that conclusions concerning sera levels might be erroneous, because the true plasma level of the protein can be significantly higher.
Effects of Constant Lightness, Darkness and Parachlorophenylalanine Treatment on Tail Regeneration in the Lizard Ophisops elegans macrodactylus: Macroscopic, Biochemical and Histological Changes
Authors: Turgut M. , Kaplan S. , Metin K. , Koca Y. B. , Soylu E. , ŞAhin B. , Ateşlier Z. B. B. , Başaloğlu H. K. 
Published: January 2006

SummaryA better understanding of regenerative growth is very important for the development of new potential strategies. Recently, the pineal secretory product melatonin was shown to stimulate the regeneration process. In this study, we carried out an experimental investigation of tail regeneration in young adult lizards, Ophisops elegans macrodactylus Berthold, 1842, addressing the role of melatonin on the regeneration process. Lizards were divided into three groups: constant light‐exposed control group (n = 13), constant dark‐exposed group (n = 15) and parachlorophenylalanine (p‐CPA) treatment group exposed to constant light (n = 15). Using a tail autotomy procedure, the effects of p‐CPA treatment on connective tissue together with neural tissue and vascular tissue in regenerating tail in lizards were investigated. p‐CPA (400 μg/kg body mass) was injected from day 0 to 30 days after autotomy. p‐CPA treatment produced a significant increase in the length of the regenerated tail compared with light‐exposed control and dark‐exposed lizards. Total collagen content was found to be higher in p‐CPA‐treated animals in comparison with other groups. Histologically, a higher percentage of connective tissue and vascular tissue and a lower percentage of neural tissue were found in the regenerated tails of the p‐CPA‐treated lizards. Importantly, the percentage of neural tissue in lizards in the dark‐exposed animals was higher than that in animals of both light‐exposed and p‐CPA treatment groups. Thus, it is clear that p‐CPA has a stimulatory influence on fibroblast collagen production and vascularization of the regenerated tail in the lizards. Furthermore, it seems that the neural regeneration process was markedly enhanced in lizards exposed to continuous darkness. Based on the results of our study, it is suggested that melatonin may be an active factor that speeds up the rate of tail regeneration in lacertilians.
Characterization and Pathogenicity of Rhizoctonia spp. from Onion in Amasya, Turkey
Authors: Erper I. , Karaca G. H. , Turkkan M. , Ozkoc I. 
Published: January 2006

AbstractForty‐two isolates of Rhizoctonia spp. were obtained from onion in Amasya, Turkey. Of these, 29% were Rhizoctonia solani (AG‐4), 69% were Waitea circinata var. zeae (Rhizoctonia zeae) and 2% were binucleate Rhizoctonia (AG‐B). Most of the isolates were recovered from rhizosphere soil. In pathogenicity tests on onion, R. solani AG‐4 caused the greatest disease severity, those of W. circinata var. zeae were moderately virulent but binucleate Rhizoctonia isolates were of low virulence. This is the first report of binucleate Rhizoctonia AG‐B and W. circinata var. zeae occurring on onion in Turkey.
Formation and Development of Pseudothecia of Venturia nashicola
Authors: Lian S. , Li B.‐H. , Xu X.‐M. 
Published: January 2006

AbstractConidia are believed to be the main source of primary inoculum for pear scab, caused by Venturia nashicola, in northern China. Experiments were conducted to investigate the development and potential role of V. nashicola ascospores in northern China. Leaves with pear scab lesions were collected from commercial orchards in November 2003 and 2004 to monitor pseudothecia formation under various environments. Pseudothecium production was shown to occur readily in northern China. The key requirement for pseudothecium production is the occurrence of rain during the winter and early spring, although the exact timing of these rain events appeared not to affect their development. Excess water may lead to the accelerated leaf decay and hence lead to production of fewer pseudothecia. More than 80% scabbed leaves, placed in a pear orchard, produced pseudothecia. Leaves with only non‐sporulating scab lesions in autumn were also able to produce a large number of pseudothecia. Both airborne ascospores and conidia of V. nashicola were caught in a pear orchard. Most ascospores were released by late‐May, a month after pear blossom. These results suggest that ascospores may play an important role in the early stage of pear scab epidemics in spring in northern China.