bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Automated quantification of quantum‐dot‐labelled epidermal growth factor receptor internalization via multiscale image segmentation
Authors: KRIETE A. , PAPAZOGLOU E. , EDRISSI B. , PAIS H. , POURREZAEI K. 
Published: May 2006

SummaryThe ability to monitor epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFr) internalization specifically, and cellular protein concentrations and activation states in general, has been recently improved by the use of appropriately functionalized quantum dots (QDs), as a result of the long‐lasting fluorescence, brightness and multicolour of these nanoparticles. However, important quantitative information about locational proteomics is based on the analysis of the properties of many cells and cell cultures on a per‐cell basis, rather than tracking individual events within one cell. Moreover, relative positional information is often gained from traditional staining protocols of distinct cellular compartments that are prone to noise, fading and low contrast. We apply a novel multiscale image segmentation based on region growing to classify automatically objects in fixed cell preparations and to define regional zones in all cells prior to QD concentration measures. This allows rapid quantitative description of EGFr internalization as it changes with incubation time. The capabilities realizable by simultaneous application of confocal imaging and functionalized QDs in conjunction with advanced image analysis are a prerequisite for automated and multiplexed cytomics assays.
Quantitative in situ assay of salicylic acid in tobacco leaves using a genetically modified biosensor strain of Acinetobacter sp. ADP1
Authors: Huang Wei E. , Huang Linfeng , Preston Gail M. , Naylor Martin , Carr John P. , Li Yanhong , Singer Andrew C. , Whiteley Andrew S. , Wang Hui 
Published: May 2006

SummarySalicylic acid (SA) plays important roles in plants, most notably in the induction of systemic acquired resistance (SAR) against pathogens. A non‐destructive in situ assay for SA would provide new insights into the functions of SA in SAR and other SA‐regulated phenomena. We assessed a genetically engineered strain of Acinetobacter sp. ADP1, which proportionally produces bioluminescence in response to salicylates including SA and methylsalicylate, as a reporter for salicylate accumulation in the apoplast of plant leaves. SA was measured quantitatively in situ in NN genotype tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L. cv Xanthi‐nc) leaves inoculated with tobacco mosaic virus (TMV). The biosensor revealed accumulation of apoplastic SA before the visible appearance of hypersensitive response (HR) lesions. When the biosensor was infiltrated into TMV‐inoculated leaves displaying HR lesions at 90 and 168 h post‐inoculation, salicylate accumulation was detected predominantly in tissues surrounding the lesions and in veins adjacent to HR lesions. These images are consistent with previous data demonstrating that SA accumulation occurs prior to and following the onset of visible HR lesions. We also used the biosensor to observe apoplastic SA accumulation in tobacco leaves inoculated with virulent and HR‐eliciting strains of the bacterial plant pathogen Pseudomonas syringae. The work demonstrates that the Acinetobacter sp. ADP1 biosensor is a useful new tool to non‐destructively assay salicylates in situ and to map their spatial distribution in plant tissues.
Resistance in introduced populations of a freshwater snail to native range parasites
Authors: Emblidge Fromme A. , Dybdahl M. F. 
Published: May 2006

Abstract
Introduced species provide an opportunity to examine responses to novel ecological conditions, in particular to the absence of co-evolved enemies. Introduced populations could evolve lower investment in resistance or could down-regulate their immune system as a plastic response to enemy absence. The response might have consequences for the success of introduced species. Assuming a trade-off between resistance and traits related to demographic success, an evolved change or reallocation from resistance could increase the chances of invasions. On the other hand, introduced populations could have increased resistance as a correlate of greater vigour and competitive ability among successful invaders [Sampling Bias hypothesis (SBH)]. These hypotheses make different predictions about investment in resistance in introduced populations. Using a New Zealand clonal snail (Potamopyrgus antipodarum), we examined the resistance of three introduced genotypes (one from the US and two from Europe) to several populations of a native range parasite (Microphallus sp.). One genotype (Euro A) was resistant to all native range parasite populations, consistent with the SBH. However, two remaining genotypes (Euro C and US 1) were less susceptible to parasite populations that were allopatric to their source populations. Furthermore, resistance of one genotype (US 1) collected from the introduced range was indistinguishable from its resistance when collected from the range of the parasite. Hence, there was no evidence for decreased resistance in the absence of native enemies, which is inconsistent with hypotheses that envision reduced allocation to resistance or a trade-off between competitive ability and resistance.
Yield Responsiveness in Two‐ and Six‐Rowed Barley Grown in Contrasting Nitrogen Environments
Authors: Arisnabarreta S. , Miralles D. J. 
Published: May 2006

AbstractTwo‐ and six‐rowed barley with different intrinsic ability to produce tillers and kernels per ear, would differ in responsiveness to nitrogen availability with environmental improvements. Two field experiments were carried out to elucidate how nitrogen supply (N40 and N150) affects yield and its components in two‐ and six‐rowed barley. High nitrogen increased aboveground dry matter at anthesis, by improving cumulative solar radiation intercepted by the crop, determining an increased dry‐matter production at maturity without changes in harvest index. In both barley types, variations in grain yield were explained by changes in kernels per unit land area rather than by differences in the average kernel weight. However, changes in the number of kernels were due to variations in the number of ears per m2 in two‐rowed barley and the number of kernels per ear in six‐rowed barley. Ears per unit area showed a greater responsiveness in two‐ than in six‐rowed barley due to a higher nitrogen supply treatment, associated with their intrinsic higher tillering capacity, while the number of kernels per ear was more responsive in six‐ than in two‐rowed types. The fact that responses to nitrogen by the number of kernels per unit land area in two‐ and six‐rowed barley is better explained by different yield sub‐components, allows the speculation that the critical period for yield determination would differ between barley types.
Testing anticellulite products
Authors: Rona C. , Carrera M. , Berardesca E. 
Published: May 2006

SynopsisCellulite represents the most common lipodystrophic disease. It affects more likely women than men and it usually develops in particular anatomic sites such as lateral thighs and buttocks. In these areas skin resembles ‘orange peel’ surface. The pathophysiological aspects of cellulite are still not clear. Many predisposing factors seem to influence cellulite onset, including gender, heredity, race, body weight and age. Hormones and impairment of both microvascular and lymphatic circulation are considered the most important etiological factors. The evaluation of cellulite is based principally on clinical observation, thigh circumference measurements, body mass index and thermography but for testing anticellulite products, more objective and non‐invasive methods of evaluation are requested.
Cellulite and its treatment
Authors: Rawlings A. V. 
Published: May 2006

SynopsisThe presence of cellulite is an aesthetically unacceptable cosmetic problem for most post‐adolescent women. It is largely observed in the gluteal‐fermoral regions with its ‘orange‐peel’ or ‘cottage cheese’ appearance. It is not specific to overweight women although increased adipogenicity will exacerbate the condition. It is a complex problem involving the microcirculatory system and lymphatics, the extracellular matrix and the presence of excess subcutaneous fat that bulges into the dermis. It has been described as a normal condition that maximizes subcutaneous fat retention to ensure adequate caloric availability for pregnancy and lactation. Differences in the fibrous septae architecture that compartmentalize the adipose tissue have recently been reported in women with cellulite compared with men. Weight loss has been reported to improve the cellulite severity by surface topography measures although in obese subject's skin dimpling does not seem to change appreciably. However, histological analysis suggests that fat globules retract out of the dermis with weight loss. Cellulite has been treated with massage which decreases tissue oedema but it is also likely to have its effects at the cellular level by stimulating fibroblast (and keratinocyte) activity while decreasing adipocyte activity. In addition to massage, effective topical creams with a variety of agents were used to ameliorate the condition. Nevertheless, only a few studies are reported in the scientific literature. Xanthines, botanicals, fragrances and ligands for the retinoid and peroxisomal proliferator‐activated receptors appear to be giving some benefit. Reducing adipogenesis and increasing thermogenesis appear to be primary routes and also improving the microcirculation and collagen synthesis. Many agents are being investigated for weight management in the supplement industry [hydroxycitrate, epigallocatechin gallate, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), etc.] and some of these agents seem to be beneficial for the treatment of cellulite. In fact, CLA was proven to ameliorate the signs of cellulite. One product, Cellasene, containing a variety of botanicals and polyunsaturated fatty acids also appears to provide some relief from these symptoms. Although more work is needed, clearly these treatments do improve the appearance of skin in subjects with cellulite. It is quite possible, however, that synergies between both oral and topical routes may be the best intervention to ameliorate the signs and symptoms of cellulite.
Efficacy of a multifunctional plant complex in the treatment of the so‐called ‘cellulite’: clinical and instrumental evaluation
Authors: Distante F. , Bacci P. A. , Carrera M. 
Published: May 2006

Synopsis‘Cellulite’ or more correctly oedemateous fibrosclerotic panniculopathy, or local lipodystrophy, is a common aesthetic problem for many women, visually characterized by the orange peel or dimpled look of the skin, mainly on the buttocks and thighs. The cause of cellulite is still a matter of debate. It is currently considered an endocrine‐metabolic microcirculatory disorder that causes interstitial matrix alterations and structural changes in subcutaneous adipose tissue. The first step in cellulite treatment is stimulation of microcirculation and the removal of accumulated fluids and toxic elements. This can improve the interstitial matrix basal regulation, fibroblast activity and decrease interstitial oedema, with subsequent increase in lipolysis and a better oxygen and nutrition of the adipose tissue. In this paper are reported two trials aimed at evaluating clinically and instrumentally the effects of different orally administered multifunctional plant extracts‐based formulations in the treatment of cellulite compared with a placebo.
Cellulite histopathology and related mechanobiology
Authors: Quatresooz P. , Xhauflaire‐Uhoda E. , Piérard‐Franchimont C. , Piérard G. E. 
Published: May 2006

SynopsisCellulite, sometimes called gynoid lipodystrophy, is much more prevalent in women than in men. There are glaring discrepancies regarding the microanatomical descriptions of this condition in the literature. A lumpy aspect of the dermo‐hypodermal interface is often cited, but it appears to represent a gender‐linked characteristic of the thighs and buttocks without being a specific sign of cellulite. Incipient cellulite recognized by a discrete padded look or ‘orange peel’ aspect appears correlated with the presence of a network of focally enlarged fibrosclerotic strands partitioning the hypodermis and serving as a physiological buttress limiting the outpouching of fat lobules on pinching the skin. These connective tissue structures might represent a hormonal‐dependent reactive process to sustained mechanical tensions caused by the adipocyte lobules. Full blown cellulite is recognized by a lumpy‐bumpy and dimpled skin surface. It likely represents subjugation of the hypertrophic response of the hypodermal connective tissue strands when their resistance is overcome by progressive fat accumulation. In these cases, histological aspects reminiscent of striae distensae are identified within the hypodermal connective tissue strands. The mechanical properties of skin involved by cellulite process are altered, but may tend to resume to normal under treatment. These functional changes influence the mechanobiology of connective tissue cells, in particular the Factor XIIIa‐positive dermal dendrocytes.
Isolation and characterization of 15 polymorphic microsatellite markers for the devastating dry rot fungus, Serpula lacrymans
Authors: HÖGBERG N. , SVEGÅRDEN I. B. , KAUSERUD H. 
Published: May 2006

AbstractFifteen polymorphic microsatellite markers were developed from microsatellite‐enriched DNA libraries of the devastating dry rot fungus, Serpula lacrymans. The loci exhibited two to four alleles per locus and the expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.13 to 0.47. The codominant markers, described here for this fungus, will permit further studies in population genetics and phylogeography of this economically highly important species.
Composition and implications of diverse lipids in New Zealand Geothermal sinters
Authors: PANCOST R. D. , PRESSLEY S. , COLEMAN J. M. , TALBOT H. M. , KELLY S. P. , FARRIMOND P. , SCHOUTEN S. , BENNING L. , MOUNTAIN B. W. 
Published: May 2006

ABSTRACTMicrobial adaptations associated with extreme growth environments, including high temperatures and low pH, are of interest to astrobiologists and origin of life researchers. As part of a survey of microbial lipids present in terrestrial geothermal settings, we examined four silica sinters associated with three different hot spring areas of the Taupo Volcanic Zone (TVZ), New Zealand. Dominant bacterial lipids include free fatty acids, 1,2‐diacylglycerophospholipids, 1,2‐di‐O‐alkylglycerols, 1‐O‐alkylglycerols, wax esters, alkanols, alkan‐1,2‐diols and various hopanoids, whereas dominant archaeal lipids include both archaeol and glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers. Although many of these compounds occur in other settings, in the TVZ sinters their distributions (with high abundances of β‐OH fatty acids and high‐molecular‐weight (> C18) fatty acyl components) and carbon isotopic compositions (ranging from −40 to +4, with up to 25 variability in a single sample) are unusual. In addition, we have identified a range of unusual compounds, including novel macrocyclic diethers and hopanoids. The distributions of these compounds differ among the study sites, suggesting that, where preserved in ancient sinters, they could serve as an important tool in studying past hydrothermal environments.
Microbial fuel cell energy from an ocean cold seep
Authors: REIMERS C. E. , GIRGUIS P. , STECHER H. A. , TENDER L. M. , RYCKELYNCK N. , WHALING P. 
Published: May 2006

ABSTRACTBenthic microbial fuel cells are devices that generate modest levels of electrical power in seafloor environments by a mechanism analogous to the coupled biogeochemical reactions that transfer electrons from organic carbon through redox intermediates to oxygen. Two benthic microbial fuel cells were deployed at a deep‐ocean cold seep within Monterey Canyon, California, and were monitored for 125 days. Their anodes consisted of single graphite rods that were placed within microbial mat patches of the seep, while the cathodes consisted of carbon‐fibre/titanium wire brushes attached to graphite plates suspended ∼0.5 m above the sediment. Power records demonstrated a maximal sustained power density of 34 mW·m−2 of anode surface area, equating to 1100 mW m−2 of seafloor. Molecular phylogenetic analyses of microbial biofilms that formed on the electrode surfaces revealed changes in microbial community composition along the anode as a function of sediment depth and surrounding geochemistry. Near the sediment surface (20–29 cm depth), the anodic biofilm was dominated by micro‐organisms closely related to Desulfuromonas acetoxidans. At horizons 46–55 and 70–76 cm below the sediment–water interface, clone libraries showed more diverse populations, with increasing representation of δ‐proteobacteria such as Desulfocapsa and Syntrophus, as well as ɛ‐proteobacteria. Genes from phylotypes related to Pseudomonas dominated the cathode clone library. These results confound ascribing a single electron transport role performed by only a few members of the microbial community to explain energy harvesting from marine sediments. In addition, the microbial fuel cells exhibited slowly decreasing current attributable to a combination of anode passivation and sulfide mass transport limitation. Electron micrographs of fuel cell anodes and laboratory experiments confirmed that sulfide oxidation products can build up on anode surfaces and impede electron transfer. Thus, while cold seeps have the potential to provide more power than neighbouring ocean sediments, the limits of mass transport as well as the proclivity for passivation must be considered when developing new benthic microbial fuel cell designs to meet specific power requirements.
Are environmental conditions recorded by the organic matrices associated with precipitated calcium carbonate in cyanobacterial microbialites?
Authors: GAUTRET P. , DE WIT R. , CAMOIN G. , GOLUBIC S. 
Published: May 2006

ABSTRACTThe amino acid composition of organic matrices associated with calcium carbonate precipitates in microbialites built by different Phormidium species (cyanobacteria) has been compared for samples recovered in lagoonal settings from two regions of the Southern Tropical Pacific separated by more than 4000 km: New Caledonia (Nouméa lagoon) and French Polynesia (Tikehau atoll). Calcium carbonate precipitation in these microbial structures was observed mainly in the interior of the domes and clearly separated from the photosynthetically active surface layer. This study focuses on the hydrolysable amino acid composition of the associated organic matrices that are typically rich in cysteine, leucine, alanine and arginine in New Caledonia, whereas they are particularly rich in dicarboxylic amino acids in French Polynesia. This striking difference is seemingly related to different environmental conditions that characterize the two reef settings. The high cysteine content suggests an origin from metallothioneins produced by the cyanobacteria and/or by epiphytic diatoms that were observed on the top layer, as the result of the input of metals from terrestrial origin in the Nouméa lagoon. In addition, we analysed the bulk organic matter of the photosynthetically active surface layer and of the interior of the domes. The former showed remarkable variations of amino acid composition throughout the year 2001, which may potentially reflect the impact of climatological events (e.g. cyclones) and/or a much stronger seasonality in New Caledonia than in French Polynesia. Although the mechanisms behind the differences remain elusive, our study clearly shows that environmental conditions can be reflected by amino acid compositions, particularly for the organic matrices associated with carbonate precipitates.
Characteristics of Frail Older Adult Drivers
Authors: Carr David B. , Flood Kellie L. , Steger‐May Karen , Schechtman Kenneth B. , Binder Ellen F. 
Published: May 2006

OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of driving in older adults with mild to moderate physical frailty and to compare characteristics of current frail older adult drivers with those of former drivers in the sample.DESIGN: Retrospective study of frail older adults enrolled in randomized trials of exercise and hormone replacement therapy.SETTING: Urban, academic medical center.PARTICIPANTS: One hundred eighty‐three sedentary community‐dwelling men and women aged 75 and older with mild to moderate physical frailty, as defined by two of the following three criteria: modified Physical Performance Test (PPT) score between 18 and 32, peak oxygen uptake (VO2) between 10 and 18 mL/kg per minute, and self‐report of difficulty or assistance with one activity of daily living (ADL) or two instrumental ADLs. Participants were classified as current or former drivers.MEASUREMENTS: Demographic characteristics, medical diagnoses, medication use, modified PPT score, and psychometric tests.RESULTS: The majority (85%) of the participants were drivers. Former drivers were more likely to be older, be female, reside in congregate independent living for the elderly, have a higher incidence of arthritis and congestive heart failure, take sedating medications, have lower total ADL scores, have lower VO2 peak scores, and have more impairment on tests of cognition and physical strength, although only age, type of residence, and grip strength were independent predictors of driving cessation in the regression analysis.CONCLUSION: Despite the presence of physical frailty, many older adults choose to continue to drive. Further studies are needed to better understand the driving behaviors of frail older adults and explore opportunities for optimizing driving abilities.
Ultraviolet B radiation suppresses Langerhans cell migration in the dermis by down‐regulation of α4 integrin
Authors: Hamakawa Motoko , Sugihara Akira , Okamoto Hiroyuki , Horio Takeshi 
Published: May 2006

Background/Purpose: Ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation affects the migration and function of epidermal Langerhans cells (LC) and causes immunosuppression of contact hypersensitivity. It is known that LC leaves the epidermis after exposure to UVB. To know the behavior of LC in the dermis after UVB radiation, we studied the effect of UVB radiation on the expression of integrin families on freshly isolated or cultured murine LC. We also examined whether UVB radiation affects the migration of LC to secondary lymphoid tissue chemokine (SLC/6Ckine).Methods: Integrin expressions of murine LC cultured in epidermal cell suspension were analyzed using flowcytometry. We used murine LC sorted flowcytometrically for binding assay to extracellular matrix and for migration assay to chemokine. Skin explant assay and immnohistochemical staining for ‘cords formation’ were performed as previously described.Results: Twenty and 40 mJ/cm2 of UVB radiation down‐regulated the expression of α4 integrin on 24 h‐cultured LC, but not that of α6, β1, or β4 integrin. The number of cultured LC adhered to fibronectin, a ligand for α4 integrin, was decreased after UVB irradiation, while that to laminin, a ligand for α6 integrin, was not influenced. UVB radiation reduced the number of migrating LC to SLC. Furthermore, skin sheet explant experiments showed that UVB radiation inhibited the ‘cords’ formation in dermal vessels of the 48 h‐cultured skin.Conclusions: These data suggest that UVB radiation may suppress the migration of LC from the dermis to lymphatic vessels. UVB radiation may downregulate the adherence of LC to dermal fibronectin and migration to SLC, and consequently suppress the migration of LC from the UVB‐irradiated dermis to lymphatics.