bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
UV-resist, Water-repellent Breathable Fabric as Protective Textiles
Authors: De P. , Sankhe M. D. , Chaudhari S. S. , Mathur M. R.
Published: May 2005

The demand for healthy lifestyles and comfort drives researchers to explore newer techniques to impart more functional properties in textiles. An attempt has been made to produce UV-resist, breathable fabrics for use in the cold regions of India as high-altitude fabrics. For UV-resist property, a dispersion of benzotrizol-type derivative and a silicone-based product are taken and perfluoro-alkyl-type fluorocarbon-based compound and fluorocarbon resin-type compound are used as water-repellent finishes. To estimate the performance of each finish on the fabric, these chemicals are applied separately with different concentrations. The finished fabrics are evaluated for their functional properties. It is found that the benzotriozol derivative for UV-resist and the fluorocarbon resin-type compound for water-repellent finish give best results. Both chemicals are applied sequentially and show good wash fastness.
Studies on Test Methods used to Measure Water Vapor Transmission of Fabrics by DSC and Conventional Dish Techniques
Authors: Indushekar R. , Awasthi Punam , Gupta R. K. , Kotresh T. M.
Published: May 2005

The water vapor transmission of a wide range of base fabrics used in extreme cold weather protective clothing has been evaluated using the conventional dish and MDSC techniques. The results generated from the two methods are compared. The studies reveal that the two techniques cannot be compared directly due to different test conditions, although few samples exhibited good correlation. Further, the study examines and analyzes the effect of constructional parameters of the base fabric on water vapor transfer, factors that are often used as surrogate indicators of clothing comfort affecting the combat efficiency of soldiers.
Research on Evaluating the Indices of Dynamic Fabric Heat and Moisture Comfort
Authors: Li Chuang , Wang Li-Ping , Ren Rong-Ming
Published: May 2005

Based on the microenvironment theory, this article introduces a new type of fabric microenvironment testing instrument to measure the dynamic changes of vapor pressure, temperature, and heat flux under simulated human body sweating conditions. According to the curves measured, heat and moisture ratio (HMR) and coefficient R are calculated to evaluate the heat and moisture transmitting property of fabrics. It has been proved that these two indices could effectively distinguish the fabric heat and moisture comfort in latent and apparent sweating conditions.
Effects of mycophenolate mofetil on key pattern of coronary restenosis: a cascade of in vitro and ex vivo models
Authors: Voisard Rainer , Viola Sandra , Kaspar Verena , Weber Christian M , von Müller Lutz , Baur Regine , Gastrock-Balitsch Iris , Hombach Vinzenz
Published: May 2005

Background

Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), the prodrug of mycophenolic acid (MPA), is a rationally designed immunosuppressive drug. The current study investigates the effect of MMF on key pattern of restenosis in a cascade of in vitro and ex vivo models.

Methods

Part I of the study investigated in northern blot and cytoflow studies the effect of MMF (50, 100, 150, 200, 250, and 300 μg/mL) on TNF-α induced expression of intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) in human coronary endothelial cells (HCAEC) and human coronary medial smooth muscle cells (HCMSMC). Part II of the study applied a human coronary 3D model of leukocyte attack, the 3DLA-model. HCAEC and HCMSMC were cultured on both sides of a polycarbonate filters, mimicking the internal elastic membrane. Leukocyte attack (LA) was carried out by adding human monocytes (MC) on the endothelial side. The effect of MMF (50 μg/mL) on adhesion and chemotaxis (0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 24 h after LA) and the effect on proliferation of co-cultured HCMSMC (24 h after LA) was studied. In part III of the study a porcine coronary organ culture model of restenosis (POC-model) was used. After ex vivo ballooning MMF (50 μg/mL) was added to the cultures for a period of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 days. The effect on reactive cell proliferation and neointimal thickening was studied at day 7 and day 28 after ballooning.

Results

Expression of ICAM-1 in northern blot and cytoflow studies was neither clearly inhibited nor stimulated after administration of MMF in the clinical relevant concentration of 50 μg/mL. In the 3DLA-model 50 μg/mL of MMF caused a significant antiproliferative effect (p < 0.001) in co-cultured HCMSMC but had no effect on MC-adhesion and MC-chemotaxis. In the ex vivo POC-model neighter reactive cell proliferation at day 7 nor neointimal hyperplasia at day 28 were significantly inhibited by MMF (50 μg/mL).

Conclusion

Thus, the data demonstrate a significant antiproliferative effect of clinical relevant levels of MMF (50 μg/mL) in the 3DLA-model. The antiproliferative effect was a direct antiproliferative effect that was not triggered via reduced expression of ICAM-1 or via an inhibition of MC-adhesion and chemotaxis. Probably due to technical limitations (as e.g. the missing of perfusion) the antiproliferative effect of MMF (50 μg/mL) could not be reproduced in the coronary organ culture model. A cascade of focused in vitro and ex vivo models may help to gather informations on drug effects before large experimental studies are initiated.
GPs' perspectives of type 2 diabetes patients' adherence to treatment: A qualitative analysis of barriers and solutions
Authors: Wens Johan , Vermeire Etienne , Van Royen Paul , Sabbe Bernard , Denekens Joke
Published: May 2005

Background

The problem of poor compliance/adherence to prescribed treatments is very complex. Health professionals are rarely being asked how they handle the patient's (poor) therapy compliance/adherence. In this study, we examine explicitly the physicians' expectations of their diabetes patients' compliance/adherence. The objectives of our study were: (1) to elicit problems physicians encounter with type 2 diabetes patients' adherence to treatment recommendations; (2) to search for solutions and (3) to discover escape mechanisms in case of frustration.

Methods

In a descriptive qualitative study, we explored the thoughts and feelings of general practitioners (GPs) on patients' compliance/adherence. Forty interested GPs could be recruited for focus group participation. Five open ended questions were derived on the one hand from a similar qualitative study on compliance/adherence in patients living with type 2 diabetes and on the other hand from the results of a comprehensive review of recent literature on compliance/adherence. A well-trained diabetes nurse guided the GPs through the focus group sessions while an observer was attentive for non-verbal communication and interactions between participants. All focus groups were audio taped and transcribed for content analysis. Two researchers independently performed the initial coding. A first draft with results was sent to all participants for agreement on content and comprehensiveness.

Results

General practitioners experience problems with the patient's deficient knowledge and the fact they minimize the consequences of having and living with diabetes. It appears that great confidence in modern medical science does not stimulate many changes in life style. Doctors tend to be frustrated because their patients do not achieve the common Evidence Based Medicine (EBM) objectives, i.e. on health behavior and metabolic control. Relevant solutions, derived from qualitative studies, for better compliance/adherence seem to be communication, tailored and shared care. GPs felt that a structured consultation and follow-up in a multidisciplinary team might help to increase compliance/adherence. It was recognized that the GP's efforts do not always meet the patients' health expectations. This initiates GPs' frustration and leads to a paternalistic attitude, which may induce anxiety in the patient. GPs often assume that the best methods to increase compliance/adherence are shocking the patients, putting pressure on them and threatening to refer them to hospital.

Conclusion

GPs identified a number of problems with compliance/adherence and suggested solutions to improve it. GPs need communication skills to cope with patients' expectations and evidence based goals in a tailored approach to diabetes care.
Molecular mapping of periodontal tissues using infrared microspectroscopy
Authors: Hynes Allan , Scott David A , Man Angela , Singer David L , Sowa Michael G , Liu Kan-Zhi
Published: May 2005

Background

Chronic periodontitis is an inflammatory disease of the supporting structures of the teeth. Infrared microspectroscopy has the potential to simultaneously monitor multiple disease markers, including cellular infiltration and collagen catabolism, and hence differentiate diseased and healthy tissues. Therefore, our aim was to establish an infrared microspectroscopy methodology with which to analyze and interpret molecular maps defining pathogenic processes in periodontal tissues.

Methods

Specific key cellular and connective tissue components were identified by infrared microspectroscopy and using a chemical imaging method.

Results

Higher densities of DNA, total protein and lipid were revealed in epithelial tissue, compared to the lower percentage of these components in connective tissue. Collagen-specific tissue mapping by infrared microspectroscopy revealed much higher levels of collagen deposition in the connective tissues compared to that in the epithelium, as would be expected. Thus inflammatory events such as cellular infiltration and collagen deposition and catabolism can be identified by infrared microspectroscopy.

Conclusion

These results suggest that infrared microspectroscopy may represent a simple, reagent-free, multi-dimensional tool with which to examine periodontal disease etiology using entirely unprocessed tissue sections.
Race and satisfaction in general OB/GYN clinics
Authors: Rohrer James E , Lund Jon D , Goldfarb Susan
Published: May 2005

Background

The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that racial differences in satisfaction can be found among OB/GYN patients on a US naval base.

Methods

Cross-sectional surveys assessing satisfaction with services were obtained from 838 patients who were seen in one of the two general OB/GYN clinics (455 in the base hospital clinic and 391 in a satellite clinic). Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to identify subgroups of patients who were not very satisfied with care received.

Results

When the patients seen in the base hospital were analyzed separately, Asian respondents had significantly lower odds of being very satisfied relative to non-Hispanic white respondents (AOR = .33, p < .01).

Conclusion

Asian patients may be less satisfied than others when treated at a larger facility. Patients treated at a satellite clinic tended to be more satisfied than patients seen at the base hospital.
Relationship between maternal obesity and infant feeding-interactions
Authors: Rising Russell , Lifshitz Fima
Published: May 2005

Background

There are no data regarding the relationship between maternal adiposity and interaction and feeding of infants and possible contribution to childhood obesity. In this study we determined the relationship between maternal body weight and composition and infant feeding patterns and maternal-infant interaction during 24-hour metabolic rate measurements in the Enhanced Metabolic Testing Activity Chamber (EMTAC).

Methods

The amount of time four obese (BMI = 33.5 ± 5.3 kg/m2) and three normal weight (BMI = 23.1 ± 0.6 kg/m2) biological mothers, spent feeding and interacting with their infants, along with what they ingested, was recorded during 24-hour metabolic rate measurements in the EMTAC. The seven infants were 4.9 ± 0.7 months, 69 ± 3 cm, 7.5 ± 0.8 kg, 26 ± 3 % fat and 29 ± 25 percentile for weight for length. Energy and macronutrient intake (kcal/kg) were assessed. Maternal body composition was determined by air displacement plethysmorgraphy and that of the infants by skin-fold thicknesses. Pearson correlations and independent t-tests were utilized for statistical analysis (p < 0.05).

Results

Infants born to obese biological mothers consumed more energy (87.6 ± 18.9 vs. 68.1 ± 17.3) and energy as carbohydrate (25 ± 6 vs.16 ± 3; p < 0.05) than their normal weight counterparts. Most of the increased intake was due to complementary feedings. Twenty-four hour infant energy intake increased with both greater maternal body weight (r = 0.73;p < 0.06) and percent body fat. Furthermore, obese biological mothers spent less total time interacting (570 ± 13 vs. 381 ± 30 minutes) and feeding (298 ± 32 vs.176 ± 22 minutes) (p < 0.05) their infants than their normal weight counterparts. Twenty-four hour interaction time negatively correlated with both maternal body weight (r = -0.98; p < 0.01) and percent body fat (r = -0.92; p < 0.01). Moreover, infants of obese mothers slept more (783 ± 38 vs. 682 ± 32 minutes; p < 0.05) than their normal weight counterparts. However, there were no differences in total 24-hour energy expenditure, resting and sleeping metabolic rates (kcal/kg) for infants born to obese and normal weight biological mothers.

Conclusion

Greater maternal body weight and percent body fat were associated with greater infant energy intakes. These infants were fed less frequently and consumed more carbohydrates in a shorter period of time as compared to infants from normal weight biological mothers. These variations in feeding patterns may predispose certain infants to obesity.
Lifetime environmental tobacco smoke exposure and the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Eisner Mark D , Balmes John , Katz Patricia P , Trupin Laura , Yelin Edward H , Blanc Paul D
Published: May 2005

Background

Exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), which contains potent respiratory irritants, may lead to chronic airway inflammation and obstruction. Although ETS exposure appears to cause asthma in children and adults, its role in causing COPD has received limited attention in epidemiologic studies.

Methods

Using data from a population-based sample of 2,113 U.S. adults aged 55 to 75 years, we examined the association between lifetime ETS exposure and the risk of developing COPD.

Participants were recruited from all 48 contiguous U.S. states by random digit dialing. Lifetime ETS exposure was ascertained by structured telephone interview. We used a standard epidemiologic approach to define COPD based on a self-reported physician diagnosis of chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or COPD.

Results

Higher cumulative lifetime home and work exposure were associated with a greater risk of COPD. The highest quartile of lifetime home ETS exposure was associated with a greater risk of COPD, controlling for age, sex, race, personal smoking history, educational attainment, marital status, and occupational exposure to vapors, gas, dusts, or fumes during the longest held job (OR 1.55; 95% CI 1.09 to 2.21). The highest quartile of lifetime workplace ETS exposure was also related to a greater risk of COPD (OR 1.36; 95% CI 1.002 to 1.84). The population attributable fraction was 11% for the highest quartile of home ETS exposure and 7% for work exposure.

Conclusion

ETS exposure may be an important cause of COPD. Consequently, public policies aimed at preventing public smoking may reduce the burden of COPD-related death and disability, both by reducing direct smoking and ETS exposure.
Aquaporins in development – a review
Authors: Liu Huishu , Wintour E Marelyn
Published: May 2005

Water homeostasis during fetal development is of crucial physiologic importance. It depends upon maternal fetal fluid exchange at the placenta and fetal membranes, and some exchange between fetus and amniotic fluid can occur across the skin before full keratinization. Lungs only grow and develop normally with fluid secretion, and there is evidence that cerebral spinal fluid formation is important in normal brain development. The aquaporins are a growing family of molecular water channels, the ontogeny of which is starting to be explored. One question that is of particular importance is how well does the rodent (mouse, rat) fetus serve as a model for long-gestation mammals such as sheep and human? This is particularly important for organs such as the lung and the kidney, whose development before birth is very much less in rodents than in the long-gestation species.
Culture of skeletal myoblasts from human donors aged over 40 years: dynamics of cell growth and expression of differentiation markers
Authors: Baj Andreina , Bettaccini Alessia A , Casalone Rosario , Sala Andrea , Cherubino Paolo , Toniolo Antonio Q
Published: May 2005

Background

Local myogenesis, neoangiogenesis and homing of progenitor cells from the bone marrow appear to contribute to repair of the infarcted myocardium. Implantation into heart tissues of autologous skeletal myoblasts has been associated with improved contractile function in animal models and in humans with acute myocardial ischemia. Since heart infarction is most prevalent in individuals of over 40 years of age, we tested whether culture methods available in our laboratory were adequate to obtain sufficient numbers of differentiated skeletal myoblasts from muscle biopsy specimens obtained from patients aged 41 to 91.

Methods and results

No matter of donor age, differentiated skeletal muscle cells could be produced in vitro in amounts adequate for cellular therapy (≥300 millions). Using desmin as a cytoplasmic marker, about 50% cultured cells were differentiated along myogenic lineages and expressed proteins proper of skeletal muscle (myosin type I and II, actin, actinin, spectrin and dystrophin). Cytogenetic alterations were not detected in cultured muscle cells that had undergone at least 10 population doublings. Molecular methods employed for the screening of persistent viral infections evidenced that HCV failed to replicate in muscle cells cultured from one patient with chronic HCV infection.

Conclusion

The proposed culture methods appear to hold promise for aged patients not only in the field of cardiovascular medicine, but also in the urologic and orthopedic fields.
Neuropeptide Control of Fluid Balance in Insects
Authors: COAST GEOFFREY M. , GARSIDE CHRISTOPHER S.
Published: May 2005

Abstract: This minireview considers various aspects of the control of hydromineral balance in insects with particular reference to the control of diuresis and natriuresis in mosquitoes, with new information on the diuretic peptides of Anopheles gambiae.
Dopaminergic Inhibition of Reproduction in Teleost Fishes: Ecophysiological and Evolutionary Implications
Authors: DUFOUR S , WELTZIEN F‐A , SEBERT M‐E , LE BELLE N , VIDAL B , VERNIER P , PASQUALINI C
Published: May 2005

Abstract: In many teleosts, dopamine (DA) exerts direct inhibitory control on gonadotropes, counteracting the stimulatory effect of gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) on gonadotropin release. This dual control by GnRH and DA has been demonstrated in various adult teleosts and has major implications for aquaculture. Because of its unique life cycle, the European eel has provided a powerful model for demonstrating the key role of DA in the control of puberty. Data from tetrapods suggest that the inhibitory role of DA on reproduction is not restricted to the teleosts. Thus, DA inhibitory control could represent an ancient evolutionary component in the neuroendocrine regulation of reproduction that may have been differentially maintained throughout vertebrate evolution. The intensity of DA inhibition, its main site of action, and its involvement in the control of puberty, seasonal reproduction, ovulation, spermiation, or even sex change may differ among classes of vertebrates, as well as within smaller phylogenetic units such as teleosts or mammals. An inhibitory role for DA has been reported also in some invertebrates, indicating that neuronal DA pathways may have been recruited in various groups of metazoa to participate in the control of reproduction. In addition to the incontestable GnRH neurons, the recruitment of DA neurons for the neuroendocrine control of reproduction provides an additional brain pathway for the integration of various species‐specific, internal, and environmental cues. In teleosts, the plasticity of the DA neuroendocrine role may have contributed to their large diversity of biological cycles and to their successful adaptation to various environments.
Trends in the Evolution of the Proenkephalin and Prodynorphin Genes in Gnathostomes
Authors: KHALAP ASHLEY , BAGROSKY BRIAN , LECAUDE STEPHANIE , YOUSON JOHN , DANIELSON PHILLIP , DORES ROBERT M.
Published: May 2005

Abstract: The opioid/orphanin gene family provides a model system for analyzing the outcomes of genome duplication events. Recent studies on the proenkephalin gene provide additional evidence that the organizational plan for this gene has been conserved throughout the extensive radiation of the gnathostome vertebrates. However, an analysis of the amino acid sequence of proenkephalin from the zebrafish, Danio rerio, suggests that novel forms of this opioid precursor may be evolving in teleosts. Analyses of sarcopterygian prodynorphin sequences revealed a proenkephalin signature in prodynorphin. Current studies on the opioid/orphanin gene family point to the duplication events that shaped this family occurring prior to the radiation of the gnathostomes.
Parathyroid Glands in Calcium Regulation and Human Disease
Authors: ÅKERSTRÖM GÖRAN , HELLMAN PER , HESSMAN OLA , SEGERSTEN ULRIKA , WESTIN GUNNAR
Published: May 2005

Abstract: In humans and other land‐living vertebrates, the parathyroids are known to have an overall regulatory role with action as a thermostat in the systemic calcium homeostasis to ensure tight regulation of serum calcium concentrations and appropriate skeletal mineralization. Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is an 84‐amino‐acid peptide, synthesized and released by parathyroid chief cells in response to hypocalcemia. PTH mobilizes calcium by increasing calcium resorption from bone and by raising calcium reabsorption in the proximal kidney tubule. Treatment with active vitamin D can increase vitamin D receptor expression, inhibit growth of parathyroid tumors, and reduce PTH levels in patients with hyperparathyroidism (HPT). Newly developed vitamin D analogues with reduced calcemic effects and with more pronounced antiproliferative effect may provide new favorable treatment for reversal of HPT.
Bioinformatic Analysis of Peptide Precursor Proteins
Authors: BAGGERMAN G. , LIU F , WETS G. , SCHOOFS L
Published: May 2005

Abstract: Neuropeptides are among the most important signal molecules in animals. Traditional identification of peptide hormones through peptide purification is a tedious and time‐consuming process. With the advent of the genome sequencing projects, putative peptide precursor can be mined from the genome. However, because bioactive peptides are usually quite short in length and because the active core of a peptide is often limited to only a few amino acids, using the BLAST search engine to identify neuropeptide precursors in the genome is difficult and sometimes impossible. To overcome these shortcomings, we subject the entire set of all known Drosophila melanogaster peptide precursor sequences to motif‐finding algorithms in search of a motif that is common for all prepropeptides and that could be used in the search for new peptide precursors.
Urotensin II: Ancient Hormone with New Functions in Vertebrate Body Fluid Regulation
Authors: BALMENT R.J , SONG W , ASHTON N
Published: May 2005

Abstract: Urotensin II (UII), described in many fish species, is secreted by the caudal neurosecretory system, a unique fish neuroendocrine structure. We have examined UII secretion and its control in euryhaline fish, supporting a proposed role in osmoregulation. However, it is now apparent that UII is present in other vertebrates, including mammals. The 12‐amino‐acid peptide has been highly conserved and the key cyclic region is common from fish to humans. Our UII radioimmunoassay for flounder, directed to this cyclic region, has shown circulating UII levels in humans and rats comparable with those in fish. In mammals, UII cardiovascular effects vary between species, with vasoconstriction only evident in specific vascular beds. The kidney expresses UII receptors and responds to UII administration by a reduction in glomerular filtration rate, urine flow, and excretion of the major ions. Interestingly, plasma levels of UII are chronically elevated in rat models of hypertension. These observations imply an unforeseen role for this ancient fish hormone in the physiological and perhaps pathophysiological regulation of body fluids in higher vertebrates, including humans.
Vitellogenesis in the Red Crab, Charybdis feriatus: Contributions from Small Vitellogenin Transcripts (CfVg) and Farnesoic Acid Stimulation of CfVg Expression
Authors: CHAN SIU‐MING , MAK ABBY S. C. , CHOI CHI LUNG , MA TRACY H. T. , HUI JEROME H. L. , TIU SHIRLEY H. K.
Published: May 2005

Abstract: During reproductive maturation of the female red crab, Charybdis feriatus, the oocytes rapidly accumulate 110‐ and 78‐kDa major polypeptides. Although the hepatopancreas expresses a high level of vitellogenin (CfVg) mRNA, tissue proteins and secreted proteins of the hepatopancreas consist of only small polypeptides. In addition to the 8.0‐kb transcripts, many smaller mRNAs specific to the CfVg gene can be detected. These results suggest that the hepatopancreas also produces smaller CfVg transcripts for small CfVg subunits. Using an RT‐PCR cloning approach, a population of the small cDNA clones were isolated. Determining the DNA sequence of these clones revealed that these transcripts were most likely the result of alternative splicing and/or alternative expression of the CfVg gene. In vitro treatment of the hepatopancreas fragments with low levels of farnesoic acid stimulated the expression of CfVg.
Identification of 26RFa from Frog Brain: A Novel Hypothalamic Neuropeptide with Orexigenic Activity in Mammals
Authors: CHARTREL NICOLAS , BRUZZONE FEDERICA , DUJARDIN CYNTHIA , LEPRINCE JEROME , TOLLEMER HELENE , ANOUAR YOUSSEF , VALLARINO MAURO , COSTENTIN JEAN , VAUDRY HUBERT
Published: May 2005

Abstract: In the present study, we report the identification, in the frog brain, of a novel neuropeptide, termed 26RFa, that belongs to the RFamide peptide family. The cDNAs encoding the precursors for 26RFa have been characterized in human and rats. In rats, prepro‐26RFa mRNA is expressed exclusively in two hypothalamic nuclei involved in the control of feeding behavior. Intracerebroventricular injection of 26RFa in mice induced a dose‐dependent increase in food consumption. Taken together, these data indicate that 26RFa is a novel neuropeptide that may have important biological functions in vertebrates.
Expansion of the Superfamily of G‐Protein‐Coupled Receptors in Chordates
Authors: FREDRIKSSON ROBERT , LAGERSTRÖM MALIN C. , SCHIÖTH HELGI B.
Published: May 2005

Abstract: We have used sequence hidden Markov models to identify and classify all G‐protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) from 13 eukaryotic genomes. We found that the 5 main families found in mammals are present before the divergence of nematodes. We also found that several classes of GPCRs are not present within the vertebrate lineage, whereas they are present in several other taxa. The superfamily of GPCRs has a very dynamic gene repertoire, as evidenced by the several lineage‐specific expansions of various families of GPCRs that we found. Further, the number of GPCRs has gradually increased with increased complexity of the organism.
In Situ Hybridization Localization of TRH Precursor and TRH Receptor mRNAs in the Brain and Pituitary of Xenopus laevis
Authors: GALAS L , BIDAUD I , BULANT M , JENKS B G , OUWENS D T W M , JÉGOU S , LADRAM A , ROUBOS E W , NICOLAS P , TONON M C , VAUDRY H
Published: May 2005

Abstract: We examined the distribution of the mRNAs encoding proTRH and the three TRH receptor subtypes (xTRHR1, xTRHR2, and xTRHR3) in the Xenopus laevis CNS and pituitary. A positive correlation was generally observed between the expression patterns of proTRH and xTRHR mRNAs. xTRHRs were widely expressed in the telencephalon and diencephalon, where two or even three xTRHR mRNAs were often simultaneously observed within the same brain structures. In the pituitary, xTRHR2 was selectively expressed in the distal lobe, and xTRHR3 was found exclusively in the intermediate lobe of white background‐adapted animals, indicating that, in amphibians, the effect of TRH on α‐melanotropin (α‐MSH) secretion from melanotrope cells is mediated through the novel receptor subtype xTRHR3.
Adipokinetic Hormone and the Immune Responses of Locusts to Infection
Authors: GOLDSWORTHY G J , OPOKU‐WARE K , MULLEN L M
Published: May 2005

Abstract: Injections of Bacillus, or of blastospores from the entomopathogenic fungus, Metarhizium anisopliae, activate the prophenoloxidase (PPO) cascade, and coinjection of adipokinetic hormone‐I (AKH) enhances and prolongs these responses. When injected concurrently with an immunizing dose of live bacteria, AKH suppresses the appearance of antimicrobial activity and, after a short delay, increases the growth of bacteria within the hemocoel. Injections of live Escherichia coli or Pseudomonas aeruginosa into locusts fail to activate PPO in the hemolymph, even when coinjected with AKH. The coinjection of bacteria and hormone is rarely lethal to the locust. However, if locusts are injected with AKH when they are infected with Metarhizium, they die more rapidly than if no AKH is administered.
siRNA Produced by Recombinant Dicer Mediates Efficient Gene Silencing in Islet Cells
Authors: HÄGERKVIST ROBERT , MOKHTARI DARIUSH , MYERS JASON W. , TENGHOLM ANDERS , WELSH NILS
Published: May 2005

Abstract: RNA interference (RNAi) is emerging as a powerful and convenient tool for studying gene function and genetic variation. RNAi is mediated by 21‐ to 23‐nucleotide‐long, small interfering RNAs (siRNA) produced from larger double‐stranded RNAs in vivo by the RNase III family enzyme Dicer. To overcome the problems associated with the use of predesigned synthetic siRNA molecules, a novel method utilizing the in vitro activity of recombinant Dicer has been developed recently. In nonislet cells, it has been demonstrated that a pool of siRNA, generated by Dicer from in vitro transcribed dsRNA (d‐siRNA), mediates convenient, efficient, and reproducible gene silencing in various cell types. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of d‐siRNA to silence endogenous gene expression in pancreatic islet cells. We observed that liposomal transfection mediates efficient transport of siRNA in up to 90% of dispersed islet cells and that d‐siRNA mediates almost complete and nontoxic silencing of an endogenous mRNA, the messenger coding for the nonreceptor tyrosine kinase c‐Abl. The approach described here using d‐siRNA provides an important tool for elucidating gene function in further studies of pancreatic islets and diabetes pathophysiology.
Amphibian Pheromones and Endocrine Control of Their Secretion
Authors: KIKUYAMA SAKAE , NAKADA TOMOAKI , TOYODA FUMIYO , IWATA TAKEO , YAMAMOTO KAZUTOSHI , CONLON J MICHAEL
Published: May 2005

Abstract: Amphibian sex pheromones of 3 urodele (Cynops pyrrhogaster, C. ensicauda, and Plethodon jordani) and 1 anuran (Litoria splendida) species have been isolated and characterized and found to be either small peptides or larger proteins. Each pheromone secreted by the male acts on conspecific females. Endocrine control of pheromone secretion has been best studied in Cynops. The C. pyrrhogaster pheromone, sodefrin, and the C. ensicauda pheromone, silefrin, are generated from their precursor proteins. The sodefrin and silefrin precursor mRNA levels in the abdominal gland of the cloaca are elevated by prolactin and androgen. An increase in the level of both immunoassayable pheromones caused by treatment with these hormones has also been demonstrated. Receptors for both of these hormones have been localized in the abdominal gland. The discharge of sodefrin into the water is elicited by arginine vasotocin. The responsiveness of the female vomeronasal epithelial cells to sodefrin, as estimated by electro‐olfactography, is enhanced markedly by a combination of prolactin and estrogen. Sodefrin elevates intracellular calcium levels in vomeronasal epithelial cells. The population of the sodefrin‐responsive cells increases during the breeding period.
Signal Transduction in Rana Melanotrope Cells: Mechanism of Action of Neurotensin on Secretory and Electrical Activities
Authors: LOUISET ESTELLE , BELMEGUENAI AMOR , DESRUES LAURENCE , LEPRINCE JERÔME , TONON MARIE‐CHRISTINE , VAUDRY HUBERT
Published: May 2005

Abstract: The pars intermedia of the frog (Rana esculenta) pituitary, which is composed of a single population of endocrine cells, the melanotrophs, is a very suitable model to study the mode of action of hypophysiotropic neuropeptides. We have recently characterized neurotensin (NT) in Rana esculenta and found that synthetic frog NT (fNT) stimulates the electrical and secretory activities of melanotrophs. By combining biochemical, pharmacological, microfluorimetric, and electrophysiological approaches, we observed that NT stimulates inositol‐trisphosphate production that provokes Ca2+ release from intracellular stores. The resulting increase in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]c) activates the secretion of α‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone (α‐MSH), stimulates Ca2+‐dependent protein kinase (PKC) activity, and provokes a depolarizing chloride efflux. PKC reduces the amplitude, whereas membrane depolarization increases the frequency of L‐ and N‐type Ca2+ currents underlain by the action potential discharge. The complex regulatory processes exerted by NT on Ca2+ signaling likely generate discrete variations in the [Ca2+]c at various distances from secretory vesicles, contributing to the fine‐tuning of α‐MSH secretion.
Analysis of Rab18 and a New Golgin in the Secretory Pathway
Authors: MALAGÓN M.M , CRUZ D , VÁZQUEZ‐MARTÍNEZ R , PEINADO J R , ANOUAR Y , TONON M.C , VAUDRY H , GRACIA‐NAVARRO F , CASTAÑO J P
Published: May 2005

Abstract: Two new amphibian genes have been isolated and characterized from frog melanotropes, and the level of expression of these genes is related to the secretory status of the cells. Both genes, Rab18 and a novel member of the golgin family of proteins, are ubiquitously expressed in endocrine and nonendocrine tissues, and their corresponding proteins appear to show intracellular distributions associated with discrete vesicular and tubular structures, respectively, suggesting that they may play relevant roles in the regulation of the secretory pathway.
Expression of Neuropeptide Y Family Peptides in the Brain and Gut during Stages of the Life Cycle of a Parasitic Lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) and a Nonparasitic Lamprey (Ichthyomyzon gagei)
Authors: MONTPETIT COLIN J. , CHATALOV VITALI , YUK JIMMY , RASARATNAM INDRA , YOUSON JOHN H.
Published: May 2005

Abstract: The long‐term objective of our research is to show that internal factors may be key to triggering metamorphosis and directing the life history types in lampreys (parasitism versus nonparasitism). Since neuropeptide Y family peptides are key players in the endocrine‐mediated feeding and reproductive events in mammals, a role for these peptides in the control of feeding behavior and development can be predicted for lampreys. We have investigated the expression pattern of these peptides in the brain and in the gut during different stages of the life cycle of the parasitic lamprey, Petromyzon marinus, and the nonparasitic lamprey, Ichthyomyzon gagei. We provide a description of the cloning and sequencing of P. marinus and I. gagei cDNA for neuropeptide Y (NPY), peptide tyrosine‐tyrosine (PYY), and peptide methionine‐tyrosine (PMY). Using sequence‐specific primers, the mRNA expression patterns for these peptides in brain and gut of larval (ammocoete) and adult (juvenile, prespawning) lampreys were examined by semiquantitative RT‐PCR. The observations extend a potential role of neuropeptide Y family peptides in the modulation of feeding behavior and reproductive maturity in lampreys.
Fluid Balance in Ruminants: Adaptation to External and Internal Challenges
Authors: OLSSON KERSTIN
Published: May 2005

Abstract: Ruminants are widespread in hot, arid regions. This demands adaptation to large circadian temperature fluctuations and recurrent periods of food and water shortage. Pregnancy and lactation add to the demands on the adaptive mechanisms due to the greater need for food, water, and electrolytes. The blood volume increases to meet the requirements of the fetoplacental unit and the mammary glands. Unlike urine, the milk cannot be concentrated by antidiuretic hormone (vasopressin). During water deprivation, lactating animals therefore become dehydrated more rapidly than nonlactating animals. Nevertheless, desert‐adapted lactating ruminants endure frequent periods of water deprivation without incurring bad health. For the offspring living in hot and dry conditions, it is an advantage that the milk is not concentrated, even if the mother has a high antidiuretic hormone concentration to enable her to concentrate the urine. Since ruminants are prey, they need to drink rapidly when they get access to water. The forestomach allows the animals to store water in the reticulorumen. There is no danger of water intoxication even if they drink to satisfaction in a couple of minutes after having lost as much as 30% of their body weight.
Stress Hormones in Mammals and Birds: Comparative Aspects Regarding Metabolism, Excretion, and Noninvasive Measurement in Fecal Samples
Authors: PALME R , RETTENBACHER S , TOUMA C , EL‐BAHR S M , MÖSTL E
Published: May 2005

Abstract: A multitude of endocrine mechanisms are involved in coping with challenges. Front‐line hormones to overcome stressful situations are glucocorticoids (GCs) and catecholamines (CAs). These hormones are usually determined in plasma samples as parameters of adrenal activity and thus of disturbance. GCs (and CAs) are extensively metabolized and excreted afterwards. Therefore, the concentration of GCs (or their metabolites) can be measured in various body fluids or excreta. Above all, fecal samples offer the advantages of easy collection and a feedback‐free sampling procedure. However, large differences exist among species regarding the route and time course of excretion, as well as the types of metabolites formed. Based on information gained from radiometabolism studies (reviewed in this paper), we recently developed and successfully validated different enzyme immunoassays that enable the noninvasive measurement of groups of cortisol or corticosterone metabolites in animal feces. The determination of these metabolites in fecal samples can be used as a powerful tool to monitor GC production in various species of domestic, wildlife, and laboratory animals.
Neuronal, Neurohormonal, and Autocrine Control of Xenopus Melanotrope Cell Activity
Authors: ROUBOS ERIC W. , SCHEENEN WIM J. J. M. , JENKS BRUCE G.
Published: May 2005

Abstract: Amphibian pituitary melanotropes are used to investigate principles of neuroendocrine translation of neural input into hormonal output. Here, the steps in this translation process are outlined for the melanotrope cell of Xenopus laevis, with attention to external stimuli, neurochemical messengers, receptor dynamics, second‐messenger pathways, and control of the melanotrope secretory process. Emphasis is on the pathways that neurochemical messengers follow to reach the melanotrope. The inhibitory messengers, dopamine, γ‐aminobutyric acid, and neuropeptide Y, act on the cells by synaptic input from the suprachiasmatic nucleus, whereas the locus coeruleus and raphe nucleus synaptically stimulate the cells via noradrenaline and serotonin, respectively. Autoexcitatory actions are exerted by acetylcholine, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and the calcium‐sensing receptor. At least six messengers released from the pituitary neural lobe stimulate melanotropes in a neurohormonal way: corticotropin‐releasing hormone, thyrotropin‐releasing hormone, BDNF, urocortin, mesotocin, and vasotocin. They all are produced by the magnocellular nucleus and coexist in various combinations in two types of neurohemal axon terminal. Most of the relevant receptors of the melanotropes have been elucidated. Apparently, the neural lobe has a dominant role in activating melanotrope secretory activity. The intracellular mechanisms translating the various inputs into cellular activities like biosynthesis and secretion constitute the adenylyl cyclase‐cAMP pathway and Ca2+ in the form of periodic changes of the intracellular Ca2+ concentration, known as Ca2+ oscillations. It is proposed that the pattern of these oscillations encodes specific regulatory information and that it is set by first messengers that control, for example, via G proteins and cAMP‐related events, specific ion channel‐mediated events in the membrane of the melanotrope cell.
Prolactin: Fishy Tales of Its Primary Regulator and Function
Authors: SAKAMOTO TATSUYA , ODA AIKO , NARITA KENJI , TAKAHASHI HIDEYA , ODA TAKUJI , FUJIWARA JUN , GODO WAICHIRO
Published: May 2005

Abstract: Prolactin (PRL) is an important regulator of multiple biological functions, and the control of PRL expression integrates a wide spectrum of molecules throughout vertebrates. PRL‐releasing peptide (PrRP) seems to be an essential stimulator of PRL transcription and secretion in teleost pituitary and peripheral organs. In the amphibious euryhaline mudskipper, the localization of mRNA levels of PrRP and PRL as well as their regulation during acclimation to different environments are closely related. The presence of PrRP‐PRL axes in the peripheral organs might suggest an ancient history of this axis prior to the evolution of the hypothalamus‐pituitary, and it is possible that the PrRP is an original and primary regulator of PRL. In the euryhaline fishes, the permeability of gut of seawater‐acclimated fish is generally greater than that of the freshwater (FW)‐acclimated fish. The modification in the epithelial cell renewal system may play an important role in regulation of the permeability. PRL induces the cell proliferation during FW acclimation, whereas cortisol stimulates both cell proliferation and apoptosis. Indeed, a large proportion of the various actions of PRL seem to be associated directly or indirectly with cell proliferation and/or apoptosis, which might be a primary function of PRL.
The Diapause of Gypsy Moth, Lymantria dispar (L.) (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae)
Authors: ATAY‐KADIRI ZINEB , BENHSAIN NOUFISSA
Published: May 2005

Abstract: Lymantria dispar undergoes a prolonged obligatory pharate first instar larval diapause. Little information is available on the endocrine regulation of this diapause. The purpose of the present paper was to obtain information on ecdysteroid titers during the initial, middle, and terminal phases of diapause. We also investigated the effect of exogenous ecdysterone on diapause interruption. Ecdysteroid titers, measured by radioimmunoassay, were higher in diapausing eggs. Furthermore, exogenous ecdysterone did not prevent diapause. Ecdysteroids seem to play a role in the induction and maintenance of the pharate first instar larval diapause, with a drop in the ecdysteroid titer being essential for diapause termination.
Immunoexpression of Androgen Receptors in the Reproductive Tract of the Stallion
Authors: BILINSKA B. , HEJMEJ A , GANCARCZYK M , SADOWSKA J
Published: May 2005

Abstract: The objective of this study was to visualize androgen receptors (ARs) in the testis, epididymis, and prostate of the stallion by means of immunohistochemistry. Nuclear immunostaining was found in all somatic cells in the testis—Leydig, Sertoli, and peritubular myoid cells; in both types of epithelial cells of the epididymis; and in the secretory cells of the prostate. These results indicate that ARs are distributed throughout the reproductive tract cells of the stallion.
The Phylogenetic Relationship of the Glutamate and Pheromone G‐Protein‐Coupled Receptors in Different Vertebrate Species
Authors: BJARNADÓTTIR THORA K. , SCHIÖTH HELGI B. , FREDRIKSSON ROBERT
Published: May 2005

Abstract: Searches in genomic databases for human, mouse, zebrafish, and pufferfish genes resulted in the identification of more than 180 protein predictions belonging to the glutamate family of G‐protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs). Comparison of data sets from the different species showed that most of the receptor subgroups that form the glutamate family are present in both mammalian and bony fish lineage. This finding indicates that these groups share a phylogenetically ancient origin. The present study also shows that the pheromone‐receptor subgroup has undergone independent expansions in three of the four species, leaving the human genome completely deprived of all pheromone receptors.
In Vivo and In Vitro Exposures of Carp and Carp Tissues to Graded Concentrations of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals
Authors: BOTTERO S , CEVASCO A , MONTEVERDE M , PEDEMONTE F , BERTOLOTTI R , VIGANÒ L , MANDICH A , MASSARI A
Published: May 2005

Abstract: The objective of this study was to correlate morphological and biochemical parameters of reproductive activity in fish exposed to graded concentrations of endocrine disrupting chemicals. Two‐year‐old carps were exposed for two weeks to graded concentrations of ethynyl‐estradiol, tamoxifen, and flutamide. For each chemical, morphological alterations of the gonads and liver were described according to biomarker and sex steroid levels. In parallel, isolated follicular cells (FCs) and testis fragments were incubated in the presence or absence of carp pituitary homogenate and 25‐hydroxycholesterol. Media were analyzed for sex steroid level evaluations.
Divergent Stress Coping Styles in Juvenile Brown Trout (Salmo trutta)
Authors: BRELIN DANIEL , PETERSSON ERIK , WINBERG SVANTE
Published: May 2005

Abstract: Two distinct stress coping styles, proactive and reactive, have been stated in various animal studies. This divergence in coping has also been indicated in salmonid fish. Here, we test the hypothesis that divergent stress coping styles are identifiable in a sea‐ranched brown trout population. To that end, we used a series of tests on individual juvenile brown trout, with each test including a common key aspect of the two different coping styles. Using a clustering method (SAS: PROC FASTCLUS), two groups that clearly differed both in blood chemistry (noradrenalin and adrenalin levels) following confinement and in behavior during hypoxia were identified.
Bradykinin Receptors in the Zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: BROMÉE TORUN , CONLON J MICHAEL , LARHAMMAR DAN
Published: May 2005

Abstract: Ligand interactions of a zebrafish bradykinin (BK) receptor expressed in vitro were characterized by measuring inositol phosphate accumulation. The ligands were analogues of zebrafish BK. Substitutions of Arg1, Gly4, Ser6, Pro7, Leu8, and Arg9 caused greatly reduced potency and maximum response. The Pro3 to Ala analogue had higher potency, but lower maximum response. These and other differences show that the zebrafish BK receptor has a ligand‐interaction profile that is distinct from mammalian B1 and B2 receptors and from the previously characterized BK receptor in trout stomach. The results increase our understanding of the evolution of BK receptors and their ligands.
Opioid Peptides, CRF, and Urocortin in Cerebrospinal Fluid‐Contacting Neurons in Xenopus laevis
Authors: CALLE MARINELLA , CLAASSEN ILSE E. W. M. , VEENING JAN G. , KOZICZ TAMAS , ROUBOS ERIC W. , BARENDREGT HENK P.
Published: May 2005

Abstract: The presence of the opioids, β‐endorphin, met‐enkephalin, and endomorphin, and of corticotropin‐releasing factor (CRF) and the CRF family member, urocortin (Ucn), is described in cerebrospinal fluid‐contacting neurons in the brain of the amphibian, Xenopus laevis.