RESUMEN
We suggest a quantitative and objective notion of emergence. Our proposal uses algorithmic information theory as a basis for an objective framework in which a bit string encodes observational data. A plurality of drops in the Kolmogorov structure function of such a string is seen as the hallmark of emergence. Our definition offers some theoretical results, in addition to extending the notions of coarse-graining and boundary conditions. Finally, we confront our proposal with applications to dynamical systems and thermodynamics.
RESUMEN
Human complement component C2 is a critical factor of the classical complement pathway. Here we provide a method for the production of recombinant human C2 (rhC2) protein for research purposes. The human complement component C2 (hC2) is cloned from a human cDNA library by polymerase chain reaction and inserted in a mammalian expression vector (Martini et al., BMC Immunol 11:43, 2010). Transient transfection is utilized to express hC2 in a mammalian cell line, and the expressed C2 is harvested from the conditioned media. rhC2 is purified from the conditioned media by sequential steps of cation exchange and affinity column chromatography. The purified hC2 is characterized for protein purity, stability, and enzymatic activity. The recombinant hC2 activity is tested in a complement activation ELISA assay that measures classical, alternative, and lectin complement pathway activity in C2-depleted serum.
Asunto(s)
Complemento C2/biosíntesis , Complemento C2/genética , Expresión Génica , Proteínas Recombinantes , Línea Celular , Cromatografía Líquida de Alta Presión , Complemento C2/química , Complemento C2/aislamiento & purificación , Electroforesis en Gel de Poliacrilamida , Ensayo de Inmunoadsorción Enzimática , HumanosRESUMEN
In this short communication, UV/Vis was used as an analytical tool for the quantification of lignin concentrations in aqueous mediums. A significant correlation was determined between absorbance and concentration of lignin in solution. For this study, lignin was produced from different types of biomasses (willow, aspen, softwood, canary grass and hemp) using steam processes. Quantification was performed at 212, 225, 237, 270, 280 and 287 nm. UV-Vis quantification of lignin was found suitable for different types of biomass making this a timesaving analytical system that could lead to uses as Process Analytical Tool (PAT) in biorefineries utilizing steam processes or comparable approaches.
Asunto(s)
Lignina/análisis , Espectrofotometría Ultravioleta/métodos , Vapor , Biomasa , Calibración , Polisacáridos/análisis , SolubilidadRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Complement C2 deficiency is the most common genetically determined complete complement deficiency and is associated with a number of diseases. Most prominent are the associations with recurrent serious infections in young children and the development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in adults. The links with these diseases reflect the important role complement C2 plays in both innate immunity and immune tolerance. Infusions with normal fresh frozen plasma for the treatment of associated disease have demonstrated therapeutic effects but so far protein replacement therapy has not been evaluated. RESULTS: Human complement C2 was cloned and expressed in a mammalian cell line. The purity of recombinant human C2 (rhC2) was greater than 95% and it was characterized for stability and activity. It was sensitive to C1s cleavage and restored classical complement pathway activity in C2-deficient serum both in a complement activation ELISA and a hemolytic assay. Furthermore, rhC2 could increase C3 fragment deposition on the human pathogen Streptococcus pneumoniae in C2-deficient serum to levels equal to those with normal serum. CONCLUSIONS: Taken together these data suggest that recombinant human C2 can restore classical complement pathway activity and may serve as a potential therapeutic for recurring bacterial infections or SLE in C2-deficient patients.