The RUNX1 gene encodes the alpha subunit of the core binding factor (CBF) and is a common target of genetic mutations in acute leukemia. We propose that RUNX1 is a gatekeeper gene, the disruption of which leads to the exodus of a subset of hematopoietic progenitors with increased self-renewal potential from the normal environmental controls of homeostasis. This pool of "escaped" cells is the targe

The runoff from real 3 cm thick sedum-moss roofs and from laboratory roof plots in southern Sweden is measured and analysed. Real rains and artificial storms are used for the analysis. The probability of high runoff is compared with the probability of high precipitation intensity. Intensity-duration-frequency curves for runoff are derived and it is found that the runoff of 1.5 year return period c

Background: Good glycaemic control is crucial in reducing the risk of diabetes-related complications. Despite the availability of evidence-based treatment guidelines, glycaemic control appears to remain suboptimal in most countries. Objectives: In this commentary we outline the extent to which diabetes guideline targets on HbA(1c) are being met in clinical practice and - where targets are being mi

This article deals with the dynamic behavior during filtration and wet pressing of compressible porous media. An equation is developed which permits the derivation of the time dependency of porosity and flow at varying locations in a medium subjected to hydraulic pressure and/or mechanical load. Furthermore, a numerical solution that allows the equation to be solved rapidly and with high accuracy

Recombinant adeno-associated viral vectors display efficient tropism for transduction of the dopamine neurons of the substantia nigra. Taking advantage of this unique property of recombinant adeno-associated viral vectors, we expressed wildtype and A53T mutated human alpha-synuclein in the nigrostriatal dopamine neurons of adult rats for up to 6 months. Cellular and axonal pathology, including alp

Vertebrate eyes are of the simple or camera type with a single optical system that creates an image on the retina in the back of the eye. There, the visual information is encoded as nervous signals by photoreceptors, processed by retinal neurons, and then sent to the brain via the optic nerve. Surprisingly at first sight, the retinal neurons are located between the lens and the light-sensitive par

Meristems continually supply new cells for post-embryonic plant development and coordinate the initiation of new organs, such as leaves and flowers. Meristem function is regulated by a large and interconnected dynamic system that includes transcription networks, intercellular protein signalling, polarized transport of hormones and a constantly changing cellular topology. Mathematical modelling, in

A fragment-based development of 3C-triazol-1-yl-O-galactopyranosyl aldoximes led to the discovery of highly selective and high affinity (K(d) down to 11 microm) small monosaccharide based inhibitors of galectin-3. Galectin-7, 8 N-terminal CRD, and 9 N-terminal CRD bound the inhibitors only weakly. The galectin-3 selectivity was hypothesized to stem from interaction of the aldoxime moiety with a si

Escherichia coli 83972 is a clinical asymptomatia bacteriuric isolate that is able to colonize the human urinary bladder without inducing an immune response. Here we demonstrate that one of the mechanisms by which this strain has become attenuated is through the mutation of its genes encoding type I and P fimbriae.

Background The European Randomized Study of Screening for Prostate Cancer was initiated in the early 1990s to evaluate the effect of screening with prostate-specific-antigen (PSA) testing on death rates from prostate cancer. Methods We identified 182,000 men between the ages of 50 and 74 years through registries in seven European countries for inclusion in our study. The men were randomly assigned

The 4th annual European League Against Rheumatism congress, held in Lisbon, 18–21 June 2003, had a record turnout of more than 8600 delegates and the abstract submissions increased to 2600. A heat wave and a somewhat substandard venue hampered some of the activities, notably the poster sessions. The scientific program was comprehensive and of a high class, and it was organized in 10–12 parallel se

The platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) ß receptor mediates mitogenic and chemotactic signals. Like other tyrosine kinase receptors, the PDGF ß receptor is negatively regulated by protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs). To explore whether T-cell PTP (TC-PTP) negatively regulates the PDGF ß receptor, we compared PDGF ß receptor tyrosine phosphorylation in wild-type and TC-PTP knockout (ko) mouse em

Background: Bisphosphonates are effective agents for the management of osteoporosis. Their low bioavailability and low potency necessitate frequent administration on an empty stomach, which may reduce compliance. Gastrointestinal intolerance limits maximal dosing. Although intermittent intravenous treatments have been used, the optimal doses and dosing interval have not been systematically explore