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Articles 1 - 29 of 29
Full-Text Articles in Medicine and Health Sciences
Unfolded Protein Response In Cancer: The Physician's Perspective, Xuemei Li, Kezhong Zhang, Zihai Li
Unfolded Protein Response In Cancer: The Physician's Perspective, Xuemei Li, Kezhong Zhang, Zihai Li
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
The unfolded protein response (UPR) is a cascade of intracellular stress signaling events in response to an accumulation of unfolded or misfolded proteins in the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Cancer cells are often exposed to hypoxia, nutrient starvation, oxidative stress and other metabolic dysregulation that cause ER stress and activation of the UPR. Depending on the duration and degree of ER stress, the UPR can provide either survival signals by activating adaptive and antiapoptotic pathways, or death signals by inducing cell death programs. Sustained induction or repression of UPR pharmacologically may thus have beneficial and therapeutic …
Cloudaligner: A Fast And Full-Featured Mapreduce Based Tool For Sequence Mapping, Tung Nguyen, Weisong Shi, Douglas Ruden
Cloudaligner: A Fast And Full-Featured Mapreduce Based Tool For Sequence Mapping, Tung Nguyen, Weisong Shi, Douglas Ruden
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Background
Research in genetics has developed rapidly recently due to the aid of next generation sequencing (NGS). However, massively-parallel NGS produces enormous amounts of data, which leads to storage, compatibility, scalability, and performance issues. The Cloud Computing and MapReduce framework, which utilizes hundreds or thousands of shared computers to map sequencing reads quickly and efficiently to reference genome sequences, appears to be a very promising solution for these issues. Consequently, it has been adopted by many organizations recently, and the initial results are very promising. However, since these are only initial steps toward this trend, the developed software does …
A Supermatrix Analysis Of Genomic, Morphological, And Paleontological Data From Crown Cetacea, Jonathan H. Geisler, Michael R. Mcgowen, Guang Yang, John Gatesy
A Supermatrix Analysis Of Genomic, Morphological, And Paleontological Data From Crown Cetacea, Jonathan H. Geisler, Michael R. Mcgowen, Guang Yang, John Gatesy
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Background
Cetacea (dolphins, porpoises, and whales) is a clade of aquatic species that includes the most massive, deepest diving, and largest brained mammals. Understanding the temporal pattern of diversification in the group as well as the evolution of cetacean anatomy and behavior requires a robust and well-resolved phylogenetic hypothesis. Although a large body of molecular data has accumulated over the past 20 years, DNA sequences of cetaceans have not been directly integrated with the rich, cetacean fossil record to reconcile discrepancies among molecular and morphological characters.
Results
We combined new nuclear DNA sequences, including segments of six genes (~2800 …
Chemotherapy-Induced Cognitive Impairment Is Associated With Decreases In Cell Proliferation And Histone Modifications, Teresita L. Briones, Julie Woods
Chemotherapy-Induced Cognitive Impairment Is Associated With Decreases In Cell Proliferation And Histone Modifications, Teresita L. Briones, Julie Woods
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Background
In this study, we examined the effects of cyclophosphamide, methothrexate, and 5-Fluorouracil (CMF) drug combination on various aspects of learning and memory. We also examined the effects of CMF on cell proliferation and chromatin remodeling as possible underlying mechanisms to explain chemotherapy-associated cognitive dysfunction. Twenty-four adult female Wistar rats were included in the study and had minimitter implantation for continuous activity monitoring two weeks before the chemotherapy regimen was started. Once baseline activity data were collected, rats were randomly assigned to receive either CMF or saline injections given intraperitoneally. Treatments were given once a week for a total …
Unilateral Thalamic Infarction Presenting As Vertical Gaze Palsy: A Case Report, Muhib Khan, Christos Sidiropoulos, Panayiotis Mitsias
Unilateral Thalamic Infarction Presenting As Vertical Gaze Palsy: A Case Report, Muhib Khan, Christos Sidiropoulos, Panayiotis Mitsias
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Introduction
Vertical gaze palsy is a recognized manifestation of midbrain lesions. It rarely is a consequence of unilateral thalamic infarction.
Case presentation
We report the case of a 48-year-old African-American woman who presented to our facility with vertical gaze palsy and evidence of left medial thalamic infarct on diffusion-weighted imaging without coexisting midbrain ischemia. The etiology of infarct was determined to be small vessel disease after extensive investigation.
Conclusions
This report suggests a possible role of the thalamus as a vertical gaze control center. Clinicoradiological studies are needed to further define the role of the thalamus in vertical gaze …
Lack Of An Association Of Mir-938 Snp In Iddm10 With Human Type 1 Diabetes, Xiaofan Mi, Hongzhi He, Yangxin Deng, Abert M. Levin, Jin-Xiong She, Qing-Sheng Mi, Li Zhou
Lack Of An Association Of Mir-938 Snp In Iddm10 With Human Type 1 Diabetes, Xiaofan Mi, Hongzhi He, Yangxin Deng, Abert M. Levin, Jin-Xiong She, Qing-Sheng Mi, Li Zhou
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a newly discovered type of small non-protein coding RNA that function in the inhibition of effective mRNA translation, and may serve as susceptibility genes for various disease developments. The SNP rs12416605, located in human type 1 diabetes IDDM10 locus, changes the seeding sequence (UGU[G/A]CCC) of miRNA miR-938 and potentially alters miR-938 targets, including IL-16 and IL-17A. In an attempt to test whether miR-938 may be a susceptibility gene for IDDM10, we assessed the possible association of the miR-938 SNP with T1D in an American Caucasian cohort of 622 patients and 723 healthy controls by TaqMan assay. …
Combination Of Dasatinib And Curcumin Eliminates Chemo-Resistant Colon Cancer Cells, Jyoti Nautiyal, Shailender S. Kanwar, Yingjie Yu, Adhip Pn Majumdar
Combination Of Dasatinib And Curcumin Eliminates Chemo-Resistant Colon Cancer Cells, Jyoti Nautiyal, Shailender S. Kanwar, Yingjie Yu, Adhip Pn Majumdar
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Metastatic colorectal cancer remains a serious health concern with poor patient survival. Although 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) or 5-FU plus oxaliplatin (FOLFOX) is the standard therapy for colorectal cancer, it has met with limited success. Recurrence of the tumor after chemotherapy could partly be explained by the enrichment of the chemo-resistant sub-population of cancer stem cells (CSCs) that possess the ability for self-renewal and differentiation into different lineages in the tumor. Therefore development of therapeutic strategies that target CSCs for successful treatment of this malignancy is warranted. The current investigation was undertaken to examine the effectiveness of the combination therapy of …
Event-Related Potential Studies Of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Critical Review And Synthesis, Arash Javanbakht, Israel Liberzon, Alireza Amirsadri, Klevest Gjini, Nash N. Boutros
Event-Related Potential Studies Of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Critical Review And Synthesis, Arash Javanbakht, Israel Liberzon, Alireza Amirsadri, Klevest Gjini, Nash N. Boutros
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Despite the sparseness of the currently available data, there is accumulating evidence of information processing impairment in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Studies of event-related potentials (ERPs) are the main tool in real time examination of information processing. In this paper, we sought to critically review the ERP evidence of information processing abnormalities in patients with PTSD. We also examined the evidence supporting the existence of a relationship between ERP abnormalities and symptom profiles or severity in PTSD patients. An extensive Medline search was performed. Keywords included PTSD or post-traumatic stress disorder, electrophysiology or EEG, electrophysiology, P50, P100, N100, P2, …
Activating Mutation In Met Oncogene In Familial Colorectal Cancer, Deborah W. Neklason, Michelle W. Done, Nykole R. Sargent, Ann G. Schwartz, Hoda Anton-Culver, Constance A. Griffin, Dennis J. Ahnen, Joellen M. Schildkraut, Gail E. Tomlinson, Louise C. Strong, Alexander R. Miller, Jill E. Stopfer, Randall W. Burt
Activating Mutation In Met Oncogene In Familial Colorectal Cancer, Deborah W. Neklason, Michelle W. Done, Nykole R. Sargent, Ann G. Schwartz, Hoda Anton-Culver, Constance A. Griffin, Dennis J. Ahnen, Joellen M. Schildkraut, Gail E. Tomlinson, Louise C. Strong, Alexander R. Miller, Jill E. Stopfer, Randall W. Burt
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Background
In developed countries, the lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC) is 5%, and it is the second leading cause of death from cancer. The presence of family history is a well established risk factor with 25-35% of CRCs attributable to inherited and/or familial factors. The highly penetrant inherited colon cancer syndromes account for approximately 5%, leaving greater than 20% without clear genetic definition. Familial colorectal cancer has been linked to chromosome 7q31 by multiple affected relative pair studies. The MET proto-oncogene which resides in this chromosomal region is considered a candidate for genetic susceptibility.
Methods
MET exons …
High-Frequency Ultrasound For Intraoperative Margin Assessments In Breast Conservation Surgery: A Feasibility Study, Timothy E. Doyle, Rachel E. Factor, Christina L. Ellefson, Kristina M. Sorensen, Brady J. Ambrose, Jeffrey B. Goodrich, Vern P. Hart, Scott C. Jensen, Hemang Patel, Leigh A. Neumayer
High-Frequency Ultrasound For Intraoperative Margin Assessments In Breast Conservation Surgery: A Feasibility Study, Timothy E. Doyle, Rachel E. Factor, Christina L. Ellefson, Kristina M. Sorensen, Brady J. Ambrose, Jeffrey B. Goodrich, Vern P. Hart, Scott C. Jensen, Hemang Patel, Leigh A. Neumayer
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Background
In addition to breast imaging, ultrasound offers the potential for characterizing and distinguishing between benign and malignant breast tissues due to their different microstructures and material properties. The aim of this study was to determine if high-frequency ultrasound (20-80 MHz) can provide pathology sensitive measurements for the ex vivo detection of cancer in margins during breast conservation surgery.
Methods
Ultrasonic tests were performed on resected margins and other tissues obtained from 17 patients, resulting in 34 specimens that were classified into 15 pathology categories. Pulse-echo and through-transmission measurements were acquired from a total of 57 sites on the …
Rhodococcus Equi Venous Catheter Infection: A Case Report And Review Of The Literature, Rosalinda Guerrero, Ashish Bhargava, Zeina Nahleh
Rhodococcus Equi Venous Catheter Infection: A Case Report And Review Of The Literature, Rosalinda Guerrero, Ashish Bhargava, Zeina Nahleh
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Introduction
Rhodococcus equi is an animal pathogen that was initially isolated from horses and is being increasingly reported as a cause of infection in humans with impaired cellular immunity. However, this pathogen is underestimated as a challenging antagonist and is frequently considered to be a mere contaminant despite the potential for life-threatening infections. Most case reports have occurred in immunocompromised patients who have received organ transplants (for example kidney, heart, bone marrow) or those with human immunodeficiency virus infection. Infections often manifest as pulmonary involvement or soft tissue abscesses. Bacteremia related to R. equi infections of tunneled central venous …
Spatial-Temporal Analysis Of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma In The Nci-Seer Nhl Case-Control Study, David C. Wheeler, Anneclaire J. De Roos, James R. Cerhan, Lindsay M. Morton, Richard Severson, Wendy Cozen, Mary H. Ward
Spatial-Temporal Analysis Of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma In The Nci-Seer Nhl Case-Control Study, David C. Wheeler, Anneclaire J. De Roos, James R. Cerhan, Lindsay M. Morton, Richard Severson, Wendy Cozen, Mary H. Ward
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Background
Exploring spatial-temporal patterns of disease incidence through cluster analysis identifies areas of significantly elevated or decreased risk, providing potential clues about disease risk factors. Little is known about the etiology of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), or the latency period that might be relevant for environmental exposures, and there are no published spatial-temporal cluster studies of NHL.
Methods
We conducted a population-based case-control study of NHL in four National Cancer Institute (NCI)-Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) centers: Detroit, Iowa, Los Angeles, and Seattle during 1998-2000. Using 20-year residential histories, we used generalized additive models adjusted for known risk factors …
Rad6b Acts Downstream Of Wnt Signaling To Stabilize Β-Catenin: Implications For A Novel Wnt/Β-Catenin Target, Brigitte Gerard, Larry Tait, Pratima Nangia-Makker, Malathy Pv Shekhar
Rad6b Acts Downstream Of Wnt Signaling To Stabilize Β-Catenin: Implications For A Novel Wnt/Β-Catenin Target, Brigitte Gerard, Larry Tait, Pratima Nangia-Makker, Malathy Pv Shekhar
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Background
Aberrant Wnt/β-catenin signaling is associated with breast cancer even though genetic mutations in Wnt signaling components are rare. We have previously demonstrated that Rad6B, an ubiquitin conjugating enzyme, stabilizes β-catenin via polyubiqutin modifications that render β-catenin insensitive to proteasomal degradation. Rad6B is a transcriptional target of β-catenin, creating a positive feedback loop between Rad6B expression and β-catenin activation.
Methods
To isolate subpopulations expressing high or low Rad6B levels, we transfected MDA-MB-231 or WS-15 human breast cancer cells with ZsGreen fluorescent reporter vector in which the expression of ZsGreen was placed under the control of Rad6B promoter. ZsGreenhigh …
Clue: A Randomized Comparative Effectiveness Trial Of Iv Nicardipine Versus Labetalol Use In The Emergency Department, W Peacock, Joseph Varon, Brigitte M. Baumann, Pierre Borczuk, Chad M. Cannon, Abhinav Chandra, David M. Cline, Deborah Diercks, Brian Hiestand, A Hsu, Preeti Jois-Bilowich, Brian Kaminski, Philip Levy, Richard M. Nowak, Jon W. Schrock
Clue: A Randomized Comparative Effectiveness Trial Of Iv Nicardipine Versus Labetalol Use In The Emergency Department, W Peacock, Joseph Varon, Brigitte M. Baumann, Pierre Borczuk, Chad M. Cannon, Abhinav Chandra, David M. Cline, Deborah Diercks, Brian Hiestand, A Hsu, Preeti Jois-Bilowich, Brian Kaminski, Philip Levy, Richard M. Nowak, Jon W. Schrock
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Introduction
Our purpose was to compare the safety and efficacy of food and drug administration (FDA) recommended dosing of IV nicardipine versus IV labetalol for the management of acute hypertension.
Methods
Multicenter randomized clinical trial. Eligible patients had 2 systolic blood pressure (SBP) measures ≥180 mmHg and no contraindications to nicardipine or labetalol. Before randomization, the physician specified a target SBP ± 20 mmHg (the target range: TR). The primary endpoint was the percent of subjects meeting TR during the initial 30 minutes of treatment.
Results
Of 226 randomized patients, 110 received nicardipine and 116 labetalol. End organ damage …
Integrating An Internet-Mediated Walking Program Into Family Medicine Clinical Practice: A Pilot Feasibility Study, David E. Goodrich, Lorraine R. Buis, Adrienne W. Janney, Megan D. Ditty, Christine W. Krause, Kai Zheng, Ananda Sen, Victor J. Strecher, Michael L. Hess, John D. Piette, Caroline R. Richardson
Integrating An Internet-Mediated Walking Program Into Family Medicine Clinical Practice: A Pilot Feasibility Study, David E. Goodrich, Lorraine R. Buis, Adrienne W. Janney, Megan D. Ditty, Christine W. Krause, Kai Zheng, Ananda Sen, Victor J. Strecher, Michael L. Hess, John D. Piette, Caroline R. Richardson
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Background
Regular participation in physical activity can prevent many chronic health conditions. Computerized self-management programs are effective clinical tools to support patient participation in physical activity. This pilot study sought to develop and evaluate an online interface for primary care providers to refer patients to an Internet-mediated walking program called Stepping Up to Health (SUH) and to monitor participant progress in the program.
Methods
In Phase I of the study, we recruited six pairs of physicians and medical assistants from two family practice clinics to assist with the design of a clinical interface. During Phase II, providers used the …
Fetal Erap2 Variation Is Associated With Preeclampsia In African Americans In A Case-Control Study, Lori D. Hill, Dashaunda D. Hilliard, Timothy P. York, Sindhu Srinivas, Juan P. Kusanovic, Ricardo Gomez, Michal A. Elovitz, Roberto Romero, Jerome F. Strauss Iii
Fetal Erap2 Variation Is Associated With Preeclampsia In African Americans In A Case-Control Study, Lori D. Hill, Dashaunda D. Hilliard, Timothy P. York, Sindhu Srinivas, Juan P. Kusanovic, Ricardo Gomez, Michal A. Elovitz, Roberto Romero, Jerome F. Strauss Iii
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Background
Preeclampsia affects 3-8% of pregnancies and is a major cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. This complex disorder is characterized by alterations in the immune and vascular systems and involves multiple organs. There is strong evidence for a genetic contribution to preeclampsia. Two different single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidase 2 (ERAP2) gene were recently reported to be associated with increased risk for preeclampsia in two different populations. ERAP2 is expressed in placental tissue and it is involved in immune responses, inflammation, and blood pressure regulation; making it is an attractive preeclampsia …
Regional Expression Of Hoxa4 Along The Aorta And Its Potential Role In Human Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms, John H. Lillvis, Robert Erdman, Charles M. Schworer, Alicia Golden, Kimberly Derr, Zoran Gatalica, Laura A. Cox, Jianbin Shen, Richard S. Vander Heide, Guy M. Lenk, Leigh Hlavaty, Li Li, James R. Elmore, David P. Franklin, John L. Gray, Robert P. Garvin, David J. Carey, Wayne D. Lancaster, Gerard Tromp, Helena Kuivaniemi
Regional Expression Of Hoxa4 Along The Aorta And Its Potential Role In Human Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms, John H. Lillvis, Robert Erdman, Charles M. Schworer, Alicia Golden, Kimberly Derr, Zoran Gatalica, Laura A. Cox, Jianbin Shen, Richard S. Vander Heide, Guy M. Lenk, Leigh Hlavaty, Li Li, James R. Elmore, David P. Franklin, John L. Gray, Robert P. Garvin, David J. Carey, Wayne D. Lancaster, Gerard Tromp, Helena Kuivaniemi
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Background
The infrarenal abdominal aorta exhibits increased disease susceptibility relative to other aortic regions. Allograft studies exchanging thoracic and abdominal segments showed that regional susceptibility is maintained regardless of location, suggesting substantial roles for embryological origin, tissue composition and site-specific gene expression.
Results
We analyzed gene expression with microarrays in baboon aortas, and found that members of the HOX gene family exhibited spatial expression differences. HOXA4 was chosen for further study, since it had decreased expression in the abdominal compared to the thoracic aorta. Western blot analysis from 24 human aortas demonstrated significantly higher HOXA4 protein levels in thoracic …
Histone Deacetylases (Hdacs) In Xpc Gene Silencing And Bladder Cancer, Xiaoxin S. Xu, Le Wang, Judith Abrams, Gan Wang
Histone Deacetylases (Hdacs) In Xpc Gene Silencing And Bladder Cancer, Xiaoxin S. Xu, Le Wang, Judith Abrams, Gan Wang
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Bladder cancer is one of the most common malignancies and causes hundreds of thousands of deaths worldwide each year. Bladder cancer is strongly associated with exposure to environmental carcinogens. It is believed that DNA damage generated by environmental carcinogens and their metabolites causes development of bladder cancer. Nucleotide excision repair (NER) is the major DNA repair pathway for repairing bulk DNA damage generated by most environmental carcinogens, and XPC is a DNA damage recognition protein required for initiation of the NER process. Recent studies demonstrate reduced levels of XPC protein in tumors for a majority of bladder cancer patients. …
The Prevalence Of Waterpipe Tobacco Smoking Among The General And Specific Populations: A Systematic Review, Elie A. Akl, Sameer K. Gunukula, Sohaib Aleem, Rawad Obeid, Philippe Jaoude, Roland Honeine, Jihad Irani
The Prevalence Of Waterpipe Tobacco Smoking Among The General And Specific Populations: A Systematic Review, Elie A. Akl, Sameer K. Gunukula, Sohaib Aleem, Rawad Obeid, Philippe Jaoude, Roland Honeine, Jihad Irani
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Background
The objective of this study was to systematically review the medical literature for the prevalence of waterpipe tobacco use among the general and specific populations.
Methods
We electronically searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the ISI the Web of Science. We selected studies using a two-stage duplicate and independent screening process. We included cohort studies and cross sectional studies assessing the prevalence of use of waterpipe in either the general population or a specific population of interest. Two reviewers used a standardized and pilot tested form to collect data from each eligible study using a duplicate and independent screening process. …
A Protein Network-Guided Screen For Cell Cycle Regulators In Drosophila, Stephen T. Guest, Jingkai Yu, Dongmei Liu, Julie A. Hines, Maria A. Kashat, Russell L. Finley Jr
A Protein Network-Guided Screen For Cell Cycle Regulators In Drosophila, Stephen T. Guest, Jingkai Yu, Dongmei Liu, Julie A. Hines, Maria A. Kashat, Russell L. Finley Jr
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Background
Large-scale RNAi-based screens are playing a critical role in defining sets of genes that regulate specific cellular processes. Numerous screens have been completed and in some cases more than one screen has examined the same cellular process, enabling a direct comparison of the genes identified in separate screens. Surprisingly, the overlap observed between the results of similar screens is low, suggesting that RNAi screens have relatively high levels of false positives, false negatives, or both.
Results
We re-examined genes that were identified in two previous RNAi-based cell cycle screens to identify potential false positives and false negatives. We …
Phylogeny And Adaptive Evolution Of The Brain-Development Gene Microcephalin (Mcph1) In Cetaceans, Michael R. Mcgowen, Stephen H. Montgomery, Clay Clark, John Gatesy
Phylogeny And Adaptive Evolution Of The Brain-Development Gene Microcephalin (Mcph1) In Cetaceans, Michael R. Mcgowen, Stephen H. Montgomery, Clay Clark, John Gatesy
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Background
Representatives of Cetacea have the greatest absolute brain size among animals, and the largest relative brain size aside from humans. Despite this, genes implicated in the evolution of large brain size in primates have yet to be surveyed in cetaceans.
Results
We sequenced ~1240 basepairs of the brain development gene microcephalin (MCPH1) in 38 cetacean species. Alignments of these data and a published complete sequence from Tursiops truncatus with primate MCPH1 were utilized in phylogenetic analyses and to estimate ω (rate of nonsynonymous substitution/rate of synonymous substitution) using site and branch models of molecular evolution. We also tested …
The Pax Gene Eyegone Facilitates Repression Of Eye Development In Tribolium, Nazanin Zarinkamar, Xiaoyun Yang, Riyue Bao, Frank Friedrich, Rolf Beutel, Markus Friedrich
The Pax Gene Eyegone Facilitates Repression Of Eye Development In Tribolium, Nazanin Zarinkamar, Xiaoyun Yang, Riyue Bao, Frank Friedrich, Rolf Beutel, Markus Friedrich
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Background
The Pax transcription factor gene eyegone (eyg) participates in many developmental processes in Drosophila, including the Notch signaling activated postembryonic growth of the eye primordium, global development of the adult head and the development of the antenna. In contrast to other Pax genes, the functional conservation of eyg in species other than Drosophila has not yet been explored.
Results
We investigated the role of eyg during the postembryonic development of the red flour beetle Tribolium castaneum. Our results indicate conserved roles in antennal but not in eye development. Besides segmentation defects in the antenna, Tribolium eyg knockdown animals …
Bio::Phylo-Phyloinformatic Analysis Using Perl, Rutger A. Vos, Jason Caravas, Klaas Hartmann, Mark A. Jensen, Chase Miller
Bio::Phylo-Phyloinformatic Analysis Using Perl, Rutger A. Vos, Jason Caravas, Klaas Hartmann, Mark A. Jensen, Chase Miller
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Background
Phyloinformatic analyses involve large amounts of data and metadata of complex structure. Collecting, processing, analyzing, visualizing and summarizing these data and metadata should be done in steps that can be automated and reproduced. This requires flexible, modular toolkits that can represent, manipulate and persist phylogenetic data and metadata as objects with programmable interfaces.
Results
This paper presents Bio::Phylo, a Perl5 toolkit for phyloinformatic analysis. It implements classes and methods that are compatible with the well-known BioPerl toolkit, but is independent from it (making it easy to install) and features a richer API and a data model that is …
International Conference On Advances In Radiation Oncology (Icaro): Outcomes Of An Iaea Meeting, Eeva K. Salminen, Krystyna Kiel, Geoffrey S. Ibbott, Michael C. Joiner, Eduardo Rosenblatt, Eduardo Zubizarreta, Jan Wondergem, Ahmed Meghzifene
International Conference On Advances In Radiation Oncology (Icaro): Outcomes Of An Iaea Meeting, Eeva K. Salminen, Krystyna Kiel, Geoffrey S. Ibbott, Michael C. Joiner, Eduardo Rosenblatt, Eduardo Zubizarreta, Jan Wondergem, Ahmed Meghzifene
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
The IAEA held the International Conference on Advances in Radiation Oncology (ICARO) in Vienna on 27-29 April 2009. The Conference dealt with the issues and requirements posed by the transition from conventional radiotherapy to advanced modern technologies, including staffing, training, treatment planning and delivery, quality assurance (QA) and the optimal use of available resources. The current role of advanced technologies (defined as 3-dimensional and/or image guided treatment with photons or particles) in current clinical practice and future scenarios were discussed.
ICARO was organized by the IAEA at the request of the Member States and co-sponsored and supported by other …
Cytogenetic Analysis Of An Exposed-Referent Study: Perchloroethylene-Exposed Dry Cleaners Compared To Unexposed Laundry Workers, James D. Tucker, Karen J. Sorensen, Avima M. Ruder, Lauralynn Mckernan, Christy L. Forrester, Mary Butler
Cytogenetic Analysis Of An Exposed-Referent Study: Perchloroethylene-Exposed Dry Cleaners Compared To Unexposed Laundry Workers, James D. Tucker, Karen J. Sorensen, Avima M. Ruder, Lauralynn Mckernan, Christy L. Forrester, Mary Butler
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Background
Significant numbers of people are exposed to tetrachloroethylene (perchloroethylene, PCE) every year, including workers in the dry cleaning industry. Adverse health effects have been associated with PCE exposure. However, investigations of possible cumulative cytogenetic damage resulting from PCE exposure are lacking.
Methods
Eighteen dry cleaning workers and 18 laundry workers (unexposed controls) provided a peripheral blood sample for cytogenetic analysis by whole chromosome painting. Pre-shift exhaled air on these same participants was collected and analyzed for PCE levels. The laundry workers were matched to the dry cleaners on race, age, and smoking status. The relationships between levels of …
The Cns Microvascular Pericyte: Pericyte-Astrocyte Crosstalk In The Regulation Of Tissue Survival, Drew Bonkowski, Vladimir Katyshev, Roumen D. Balabanov, Andre Borisov, Paula Dore-Duffy
The Cns Microvascular Pericyte: Pericyte-Astrocyte Crosstalk In The Regulation Of Tissue Survival, Drew Bonkowski, Vladimir Katyshev, Roumen D. Balabanov, Andre Borisov, Paula Dore-Duffy
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
The French scientist Charles Benjamin Rouget identified the pericyte nearly 140 years ago. Since that time the role of the pericyte in vascular function has been difficult to elucidate. It was not until the development of techniques to isolate and culture pericytes that scientists have begun to understand the true impact of this unique cell in the maintenance of tissue homeostasis. In the brain the pericyte is an integral cellular component of the blood-brain barrier and, together with other cells of the neurovascular unit (endothelial cells, astrocytes and neurons) the pericyte makes fine-tuned regulatory adjustments and adaptations to promote …
Cathepsin B: A Potential Prognostic Marker For Inflammatory Breast Cancer, Mohamed A. Nouh, Mona M. Mohamed, Mohamed El-Shinawi, Mohamed A. Shaalan, Dora Cavallo-Medved, Hussein M. Khaled, Bonnie F. Sloane
Cathepsin B: A Potential Prognostic Marker For Inflammatory Breast Cancer, Mohamed A. Nouh, Mona M. Mohamed, Mohamed El-Shinawi, Mohamed A. Shaalan, Dora Cavallo-Medved, Hussein M. Khaled, Bonnie F. Sloane
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Background
Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is the most aggressive form of breast cancer. In non-IBC, the cysteine protease cathepsin B (CTSB) is known to be involved in cancer progression and invasion; however, very little is known about its role in IBC.
Methods
In this study, we enrolled 23 IBC and 27 non-IBC patients. All patient tissues used for analysis were from untreated patients. Using immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting, we assessed the levels of expression of CTSB in IBC versus non-IBC patient tissues. Previously, we found that CTSB is localized to caveolar membrane microdomains in cancer cell lines including IBC, and …
Analysis Of Positional Candidate Genes In The Aaa1 Susceptibility Locus For Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms On Chromosome 19, John H. Lillvis, Yoshiki Kyo, Gerard Tromp, Guy M. Lenk, Ming Li, Qing Lu, Robert P. Igo Jr, Natzi Sakalihasan, Robert E. Ferrell, Charles M. Schworer, Zoran Gatalica, Susan Land, Helena Kuivaniemi
Analysis Of Positional Candidate Genes In The Aaa1 Susceptibility Locus For Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms On Chromosome 19, John H. Lillvis, Yoshiki Kyo, Gerard Tromp, Guy M. Lenk, Ming Li, Qing Lu, Robert P. Igo Jr, Natzi Sakalihasan, Robert E. Ferrell, Charles M. Schworer, Zoran Gatalica, Susan Land, Helena Kuivaniemi
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Background
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a complex disorder with multiple genetic risk factors. Using affected relative pair linkage analysis, we previously identified an AAA susceptibility locus on chromosome 19q13. This locus has been designated as the AAA1 susceptibility locus in the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) database.
Methods
Nine candidate genes were selected from the AAA1 locus based on their function, as well as mRNA expression levels in the aorta. A sample of 394 cases and 419 controls was genotyped for 41 SNPs located in or around the selected nine candidate genes using the Illumina GoldenGate platform. …
Inhibition Of Cathepsin B Activity Attenuates Extracellular Matrix Degradation And Inflammatory Breast Cancer Invasion, Bernadette C. Victor, Arulselvi Anbalagan, Mona M. Mohamed, Bonnie F. Sloane, Dora Cavallo-Medved
Inhibition Of Cathepsin B Activity Attenuates Extracellular Matrix Degradation And Inflammatory Breast Cancer Invasion, Bernadette C. Victor, Arulselvi Anbalagan, Mona M. Mohamed, Bonnie F. Sloane, Dora Cavallo-Medved
Wayne State University Associated BioMed Central Scholarship
Abstract
Introduction
Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is an aggressive, metastatic and highly angiogenic form of locally advanced breast cancer with a relatively poor three-year survival rate. Breast cancer invasion has been linked to proteolytic activity at the tumor cell surface. Here we explored a role for active cathepsin B on the cell surface in the invasiveness of IBC.
Methods
We examined expression of the cysteine protease cathepsin B and the serine protease urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA), its receptor uPAR and caveolin-1 in two IBC cell lines: SUM149 and SUM190. We utilized a live cell proteolysis assay to localize in real …