bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prediction of solubility on recombinant expression of Plasmodium falciparum erythrocyte membrane protein 1 domains in Escherichia coli
Authors: Ahuja Sanjay , Ahuja Satpal , Chen Qijun , Wahlgren Mats 
Published: June 2006

Abstract

Background
Cellular interactions elicited by Plasmodium falciparum erythrocyte membrane protein antigen 1 (PfEMP1) are brought about by multiple DBL (Duffy binding like), CIDR (cysteine-rich interdomain region) and C2 domain types. Elucidation of the functional and structural characteristics of these domains is contingent on the abundant availability of recombinant protein in a soluble form. A priori prediction of PfEMP1 domains of the 3D7 genome strain, most likely to be expressed in the soluble form in Escherichia coli was computed and proven experimentally.

Methods
A computational analysis correlating sequence-dependent features to likelihood for expression in soluble form was computed and predictions were validated by the colony filtration blot method for rapid identification of soluble protein expression in E. coli.

Results
Solubility predictions for all constituent PfEMP1 domains in the decreasing order of their probability to be expressed in a soluble form (% mean solubility) are as follows: ATS (56.7%) > CIDR1α (46.8%) > CIDR2β (42.9%) > DBL2-4γ (31.7%) > DBL2β + C2 (30.6%) > DBL1α (24.9%) > DBL2-7ε (23.1%) > DBL2-5δ (14.8%). The length of the domains does not correlate to their probability for successful expression in the soluble form. Immunoblot analysis probing for soluble protein confirmed the differential in solubility predictions.

Conclusion
The acidic terminal segment (ATS) and CIDR α/β domain types are suitable for recombinant expression in E. coli while all DBL subtypes (α, β, γ, δ, ε) are a poor choice for obtaining soluble protein on recombinant expression in E. coli. This study has relevance for researchers pursuing functional and structural studies on PfEMP1 domains.
Cytokine response to lipoprotein lipid loading in human monocyte-derived macrophages
Authors: Persson Jenny , Nilsson Jan , Lindholm Marie W 
Published: June 2006

Abstract

Background
Macrophage foam cell formation is a prominent feature of human atherosclerotic plaques, usually considered to be correlated to uptake of and inflammatory response to oxidized low density lipoproteins (OxLDL). However, there are alternative pathways for formation of macrophage foam cells and the effect of such lipid loading on macrophage function remains to be fully characterized. In the present study we investigated basal and inducible cytokine expression in primary human macrophages either loaded with triglycerides through incubation with very low density lipoproteins (VLDL) or with cholesterol through incubation with aggregated LDL (AgLDL). We then analyzed how foam cell lipid content affected secretion of three pro-inflammatory cytokines: interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and of one chemokine: interleukin-8 (IL-8), all of which are considered pro-inflammatory, pro-atherosclerotic, and are expressed by cells in atherosclerotic tissue.

Results
Formation of triglyceride-loaded foam cells resulted in a four-fold increase in basal IL-1β secretion, whereas cholesterol loading lacked significant effect on IL-1β secretion. In contrast, secretion of TNF-α and IL-6 decreased significantly following both cholesterol and triglyceride loading, with a similar trend for secretion of IL-8. Lipid loading did not affect cell viability or expression of caspase-3, and did not significantly affect macrophage ability to respond to stimulation with exogenous TNF-α.

Conclusion
Lipid loading of primary human macrophages resulted in altered cytokine secretion from cells, where effects were similar regardless of neutral lipid composition of cells. The exception was IL-1β, where triglyceride, but not cholesterol, lipid loading resulted in a stimulation of basal secretion of the cytokine. It is apparent that macrophage cytokine secretion is affected by lipid loading by lipoproteins other than OxLDL. As both VLDL and AgLDL have been found in the vessel wall, macrophage cytokine response to uptake of these lipoproteins may have a direct effect on atherosclerotic development in vivo. However, macrophage neutral lipid amount and composition did not affect cellular activation by exogenous TNF-α, making it likely that lipoprotein lipid loading can affect foam cell cytokine secretion during basal conditions but that the effects can be overruled by TNF-α during acute inflammation.
Liver metastases of neuroendocrine tumours; early reduction of tumour load to improve life expectancy
Authors: Veenendaal Liesbeth M , Rinkes Inne HM Borel , Lips Cornelis JM , van Hillegersberg Richard 
Published: June 2006

Abstract

Background
Neuroendocrine tumours frequently metastasize to the liver. Although generally slowly progressing, hepatic metastases are the major cause of carcinoid syndrome and ultimately lead to liver dysfunction, cardiac insufficiency and finally death.

Methods
A literature review was performed to define the optimal treatment strategy and work-up in patients with neuroendocrine hepatic metastases. Based on this, an algorithm for the management of these patients was established.

Results
Platelet serotonin and chromogranin A are useful biomarkers for detection and follow-up of neuroendocrine tumour. Helical computed tomography and somatostatin receptor scintigraphy are the most sensitive diagnostic modalities. Surgical debulking is an accepted approach for reducing hormonal symptoms and to establish better conditions for medical treatment, but is frequently impossible due to the extent of disease. A novel approach is the local ablation of tumour by thermal coagulation using therapies such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or laser induced thermotherapy (LITT). These techniques preserve normal liver tissue. There is a tendency to destroy metastases early in the course of disease, thereby postponing or eliminating the surgically untreatable stage. This can be combined with postoperative radioactive octreotide to eliminate small multiple metastases. In patients with extensive metastases who are not suitable for local destruction, systemic therapy by octreotide, 131I-MIBG treatment or targeted chemo- and radiotherapy should be attempted. A final option for selective patients is orthotopic liver transplantation.

Conclusion
Treatment for patients with neuroendocrine hepatic metastases must be tailored for each individual patient. When local ablative therapies are used early in the course of the disease, the occurrence of carcinoid syndrome with end stage hepatic disease can be postponed or prevented.
Distinct expression profiles of TGF-β1 signaling mediators in pathogenic SIVmac and non-pathogenic SIVagm infections
Authors: Ploquin Mickaël J-Y , Desoutter Jean-François , Santos Patricia R , Pandrea Ivona , Diop Ousmane M , Hosmalin Anne , Butor Cécile , Barre-Sinoussi Françoise , Müller-Trutwin Michaela C 
Published: June 2006

Abstract

Background
The generalized T-cell activation characterizing HIV-1 and SIVmac infections in humans and macaques (MACs) is not found in the non-pathogenic SIVagm infection in African green monkeys (AGMs). We have previously shown that TGF-β1, Foxp3 and IL-10 are induced very early after SIVagm infection. In SIVmac-infected MACs, plasma TGF-β1 induction persists during primary infection [1]. We raised the hypothesis that MACs are unable to respond to TGF-β1 and thus cannot resorb virus-driven inflammation. We therefore compared the very early expression dynamics of pro- and anti-inflammatory markers as well as of factors involved in the TGF-β1 signaling pathway in SIV-infected AGMs and MACs.

Methods
Levels of transcripts encoding for pro- and anti-inflammatory markers (tnf-α, ifn-γ, il-10, t-bet, gata-3) as well as for TGF-β1 signaling mediators (smad3, smad4, smad7) were followed by real time PCR in a prospective study enrolling 6 AGMs and 6 MACs.

Results
During primary SIVmac infection, up-regulations of tnf-α, ifn-γ and t-bet responses (days 1–16 p.i.) were stronger whereas il-10 response was delayed (4th week p.i.) compared to SIVagm infection. Up-regulation of smad7 (days 3–8 p.i.), a cellular mediator inhibiting the TGF-β1 signaling cascade, characterized SIV-infected MACs. In AGMs, we found increases of gata-3 but not t-bet, a longer lasting up-regulation of smad4 (days 1–21 p.i), a mediator enhancing TGF-β1 signaling, and no smad7 up-regulations.

Conclusion
Our data suggest that the inability to resorb virus-driven inflammation and activation during the pathogenic HIV-1/SIVmac infections is associated with an unresponsiveness to TGF-β1.
A comparative evaluation of pharmacy services in single and no pharmacy towns
Authors: Sunderland V Bruce , Burrows Suzanne D , Joyce Andrew W 
Published: June 2006

Abstract

Background
Recent attention has focused on access of communities to pharmacy services in rural areas. To increase access to pharmacy services in rural Western Australia some doctors have been granted a licence to dispense medication on the rationale that a pharmacy would not be economically viable in that community. However, there have been no studies conducted on whether a doctor dispensing service adequately provides a pharmacy service with respect to access and quality.

Method
Residents of seven single pharmacy towns and seven non-pharmacy rural towns were surveyed to evaluate pharmacy services delivered by a pharmacist and doctor. The towns were chosen to match closely on key demographic features, with an average population of 1,246 and 1,263 respectively. A random sample of 150 households from each town was sent the questionnaire on pharmacy services (1050 in each group). Data was also collected from the Health Insurance Commission (HIC) on dispensing locations for the residents of the two groups of towns.

Results
There was a significant difference in access to pharmacy services with 82.4% of participants from pharmacy towns accessing medications within their town compared to 51.3% of non-pharmacy town participants. The HIC data supported these trends with pharmacy town residents having relatively higher prescription rates within their town compared to non-pharmacy town residents where they were more likely to access prescriptions out of their town.

Conclusion
Pharmacy town participants were more satisfied with access to health and pharmacy services within their town. Continuation of the doctor dispensing policy requires a greater consideration of the pharmacy needs of rural residents.
Effect of Chest X-Rays on the Risk of Breast Cancer Among BRCA1/2 Mutation Carriers in the International BRCA1/2 Carrier Cohort Study: A Report from the EMBRACE, GENEPSO, GEO-HEBON, and IBCCS Collaborators’ Group
Authors: Andrieu Nadine , Easton Douglas F. , Chang-Claude Jenny , Rookus Matti A. , Brohet Richard , Cardis Elisabeth , Antoniou Antonis C. , Wagner Teresa , Simard Jacques , Evans Gareth , Peock Susan , Fricker Jean-Pierre , Nogues Catherine , Veer Laura Van't , Van Leeuwen Flora E. , Goldgar David E. 
Published: June 2006

Purpose Women who carry germline mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are at greatly increased risk of breast cancer (BC). Numerous studies have shown that moderate to high doses of ionizing radiation are a risk factor for BC. Because of the role of the BRCA proteins in DNA repair, we hypothesized that BRCA carriers might be more sensitive to ionizing radiation than women in the general population. Patients and Methods A retrospective cohort study of 1,601 female BRCA1/2 carriers was performed. Risk of breast cancer from exposure to chest x-rays, as assessed by questionnaire data, was analyzed using a weighted Cox proportional hazards model. Results In this cohort, any reported exposure to chest x-rays was associated with an increased risk of BC (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.54; P = .007). This risk was increased in carrier women aged 40 years and younger (HR = 1.97; P < .001) and in women born after 1949 (HR = 2.56; P < .001), particularly those exposed only before the age of 20 years (HR = 4.64; P < .001). Conclusion In our series of BRCA carriers, we detected a relatively large effect on BC risk with a level of radiation exposure that is at least an order of magnitude lower than in previously studied medical radiation–exposed cohorts. Although part of this increase may be attributable to recall bias, the observed patterns of risk in terms of age at exposure and attained age are consistent with those found in previous studies. If confirmed, the results have important implications for the use of x-ray imaging in young BRCA1/2 carriers.
Analysis of Combustion in a Small Homogeneous Charge Compression Assisted Ignition Engine
Authors: Ma H , Kar K , Stone R , Raine R , Thorwarth H 
Published: June 2006

Combustion analysis has been conducted on a small two-stroke glow ignition engine, which has similar combustion characteristics to homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) engines. Difficulties such as unknown ignition timing and the polytropic index have been addressed by combining both heat release and mass fraction burn analyses. Results for all operating conditions have shown good correlations between the two methods. The engine has been fuelled with a mixture of methanol, nitromethane, and lubrication oil. The effect of nitromethane on combustion is difficult to determine, since altering nitromethane content also changes the air-fuel ratio under the current experiment set-up. However, it is still possible to show that nitromethane shortens the combustion periods beyond the uncertainty created by the mixture strength and cycle-by-cycle variations. The results further show that a faster combustion does not necessarily give a higher indicative mean effective pressure (i.m.e.p.) in this engine. This is because the start of combustion can shift away from its optimum value when nitromethane is added. The initial combustion period is found to be between 10 and 30° CA (crank angle); the main combustion period is between 25 and 50° CA. These combustion periods are comparable to a traditional spark ignition engine. In a very rich mixture, the ‘hot’ glow plug has been found to change significantly the combustion characteristics. Further study would be recommended to elucidate the effect of glow plugs. Lastly, in the case of poor combustion, cycle-by-cycle analysis shows that a misfire or partial burn cycles are always followed by high i.m.e.p. and fast burn cycles.
The Tishchenko Reaction: A Classic and Practical Tool for Ester Synthesis
Authors: Seki Tsunetake , Nakajo Tetsuo , Onaka Makoto 
Published: June 2006

Abstract
This article reviews the Tishchenko reaction: 2 RCHO → RCOOCH2R (R = hydrogen, alkyl, and aryl), describing the reaction mechanisms, homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts developed for the reaction, a number of specific examples, and the utility of the reaction in the industrially large-scale production of ethyl acetate from acetaldehyde.
Singlet Oxygen Generation Photocatalyzed by TiO2 Particles and Its Contribution to Biomolecule Damage
Authors: Hirakawa Kazutaka , Hirano Toru 
Published: June 2006

Abstract
The study of near-infrared emission has shown that singlet oxygen (1O2) is generated via superoxide by the photocatalytic reaction of titanium dioxide (TiO2) dispersed in solvents. The 1O2 was deactivated on the TiO2 surface and could not oxidize nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, which has no affinity to the TiO2 surface. The generation of photocatalytic 1O2 was enhanced in the phospholipid membrane, and a water soluble protein acted as an effective scavenger of the generated 1O2. These findings suggest that 1O2 generated by TiO2 contributes to the phototoxic effect through the oxidation of the membrane protein.
Synthesis of a New Water Soluble 2,2-Bifunctionalized Spin Label and Its Application to Troponin C
Authors: Hirayama Tasuku , Taki Masayasu , Nakamura Motoyoshi , Arata Toshiaki , Yamamoto Yukio 
Published: June 2006

Abstract
A new water soluble 2,2-bifunctionalized spin label (2,2E-BSL) having pyrrolidine nitroxide moiety was synthesized starting from a nitro compound with two hydroxymethyl group converted to the linkers of the 2,2E-BSL, and was applied to label troponin C (TnC). Labeled TnC through two linkages were successfully isolated, and 2,2E-BSL was proved to be immobilized on TnC by EPR measurement.
Selective Hydrosilylation of 1-Alkynes Using Iridium Catalyst with Biphosphinine Ligand
Authors: Miyake Yoshihiro , Isomura Eigo , Iyoda Masahiko 
Published: June 2006

Abstract
The iridium-catalyzed hydrosilylation of alkynes in the presence of 4,4′,5,5′-tetramethylbiphosphinine (tmbp) has been explored. The hydrosilylation of alkynes in the presence of tmbp proceeds effectively to give β-(E)-vinylsilanes highly selectively in moderate to high yields, whereas a similar hydrosilylation in the absence of tmbp produces β-(Z)-vinylsilanes selectively. The stereoselectivity of these reactions suggests the importance of the electron-withdrawing properties of tmbp coordinated to iridium.
Amination of the Ortho C–H Bonds by the Cu(OAc)2-mediated Reaction of 2-Phenylpyridines with Anilines
Authors: Uemura Takeshi , Imoto Shinya , Chatani Naoto 
Published: June 2006

Abstract
The reaction of 2-phenylpyridines with anilines in the presence of Cu(OAc)2 as a promoter results in selective mono-amination of the ortho C–H bonds in 2-phenylpyridines to give amine derivatives in high yields per the conversion. This is the rare example of the functionalization of C–H bonds to C–N bonds.
Lead-free Accumulators for Renewable and Clean Energy Technologies
Authors: Ohzuku Tsutomu , Ariyoshi Kingo 
Published: June 2006

Abstract
Lead-free accumulators consisting of lithium aluminum manganese oxide (LAMO) and lithium titanium oxide (LTO) having spinel-framework structures are examined in 1 M LiBF4 acetonitrile. Results on zero-volt storage for 2 weeks, cycle tests at 1 mA cm−2 in voltages of 0 to 2.9 V for 20 cycles and then at 2 mA cm−2 in voltages of 2.0 to 2.9 V for 100 cycles, and rate-capability tests ranging from 0.3 to 16.7 mA cm−2 are presented and 12 V lead-free accumulators, in which 5 cells are connected in series, are proposed for renewable and clean energy technologies.
Thermolysis of Dialkyl Dithiophosphates in Porous Anodic Alumina Template: A Versatile Route to Produce Semiconductor Metal Sulfide Nanowires
Authors: Lou Wenjing , Chen Miao , Wang Xiaobo , Zhang Yanan , Liu Weimin 
Published: June 2006

Abstract
A facile and versatile method characterized by thermolysis of metal dialkyl dithiophosphates in porous anodic alumina templates was proposed for producing semiconductor metal sulfide nanowires. Highly crystalline nanowires of binary metal sulfide ME (M = Cd, Pb, or Zn) have been prepared and characterized by X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy (SAED, SEM, and TEM).
Functional Insights Gained from Structural Analyses of DNA Duplexes that Contain UV‐Damaged Photoproducts†
Authors: Park Chin‐Ju , Lee Joon‐Hwa , Choi Byong‐Seok 
Published: June 2006

AbstractUltraviolet photolesions endow DNA with distinct structural and dynamic properties. Biophysical studies of photoproduct‐containing DNA have shown that these lesions affect the mutagenic properties of DNA and damage recognition by DNA repair systems. Recently obtained high‐resolution co‐crystal structures of damaged DNA bound to either DNA polymerase or DNA repair enzymes have enriched our understanding of the mechanisms by which DNA lesions are bypassed or recognized by DNA metabolizing proteins. Here, we summarize the results of these structural studies and discuss their implications for DNA metabolism.
Primary Processes During the Light‐signal Transduction of Phototropin
Authors: Matsuoka Daisuke , Iwata Tatsuya , Zikihara Kazunori , Kandori Hideki , Tokutomi Satoru 
Published: June 2006

AbstractPhototropin is a blue‐light photoreceptor in plants that mediates phototropism, chloroplast relocation, stomata opening and leaf expansion. Phototropin molecule has two photoreceptive domains named LOV1 (light–oxygen–voltage) and LOV2 in the N‐terminus and a serine/threonine kinase domain in the C‐terminus, and acts as a blue light‐regulated kinase. Each LOV domain binds a flavin mononucleotide as a chromophore and undergoes unique cyclic reactions upon blue‐light absorption that comprises a cysteinyl‐flavin adduct formation through a triplet‐excited state and a successive adduct break to revert to the initial ground state. The molecular reactions underlying the photocycle are reviewed and one of the probable molecular schemes is presented. Adduct formation alters the secondary protein structure of the LOV domains. This structural change could be transferred to the linker between the kinase domain and involved in the photoregulation of the kinase activity. The structural changes as well as the oligomeric structures seem to differ between LOV1 and LOV2, which may explain the proposed roles of each domain in the photoregulation of the kinase activity. The photoregulation mechanism of phototropin kinase is reviewed and discussed in reference to the regulation mechanism of protein kinase A, which it resembles.
Copper (II) complexes of sterically hindered o-diphenol derivatives: synthesis, characterization and microbiological studies
Authors: Loginova Natalia , Koval’chuk Tat’yana , Zheldakova Rimma , Chernyavskaya Anna , Osipovich Nikolai , Glushonok Gennady , Polozov Henry , Sorokin Victor , Shadyro Oleg 
Published: June 2006

AbstractCu (II) complexes with the sterically hindered diphenol derivatives 3,5-di(tert-butyl)-1,2-benzenediol (I), 4,6-di(tert-butyl)-1,2,3-benzenetriol (II) and the sulfur-containing 4,6-di(tert-butyl)-3-(2-hydroxyethylsulfanyl)-1,2-benzenediol (III) and 2-[4,6-di(tert-butyl)-2,3-dihydroxyphenylsulfanyl]acetic acid (IV) have been synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, TG/DTA, FT-IR, ESR, XPS, XPD and conductivity measurements. Compounds I–III can coordinate in their singly deprotonated forms and act as bidentate ligands. These compounds yield Cu (II) complexes of the stoichiometry Cu(L)2, which have square planar geometry (g| > g⊥ > ge). Unlike them, compound IV behaves as a terdentate ligand, and its complex Cu(LIV)2 has distorted octahedral geometry. According to ESR data, only the Cu(LII)2 complex contains a very small amount of phenoxyl radicals. Antimicrobial activities of these ligands and their respective Cu (II) complexes have been determined with respect to Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, as well as on yeasts. Their phytotoxic properties against Chlorella vulgaris 157 were also examined.