bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
StarD7 Gene Expression in Trophoblast Cells: Contribution of SF-1 and Wnt-β-Catenin Signaling
Authors: Rena Viviana , Flores-Martín Jésica , Angeletti Sofía , Panzetta-Dutari Graciela M. , Genti-Raimondi Susana
Published: May 2011

Steroidogenic acute regulatory protein-related lipid transfer domain containing 7 (StarD7) is a poorly characterized member of the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein-related lipid transfer proteins, up-regulated in JEG-3 cells, involved in intracellular transport and metabolism of lipids. Previous studies dealing with the mechanisms underlying the human StarD7 gene expression led us to define the cis-acting regulatory sequences in the StarD7 promoter using as a model JEG-3 cells. These include a functional T cell-specific transcription factor 4 (TCF4) site involved in Wnt-β-catenin signaling. To understand these mechanisms in more depth, we examined the steroidogenic factor 1 (SF-1) contribution to StarD7 expression. Cotransfection experiments in JEG-3 cells point out that the StarD7 promoter is activated by SF-1, and this effect is increased by forskolin. EMSA using JEG-3 nuclear proteins demonstrated that SF-1 binds to the StarD7 promoter. Additionally, chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis indicated that SF-1 and β-catenin are bound in vivo to the StarD7 promoter. Reporter gene assays in combination with mutations in the SF-1 and TCF4 binding sites revealed that the StarD7 promoter is synergistically activated by SF-1 and β-catenin and that the TCF4 binding site (−614/−608) plays an important role in this activation. SF-1 amino acid mutations involved in the physical interaction with β-catenin abolished this activation; thus demonstrating that the contact between the two proteins is necessary for an efficient StarD7 transcriptional induction. Finally, these data suggest that β-catenin could function as a bridge between SF-1 and TCF4 forming a ternary complex, which would stimulate StarD7 expression. The SF-1 and β-catenin pathway convergence on StarD7 expression may have important implications in the phospholipid uptake and transport, contributing to the normal trophoblast development.
The Extreme C-Terminal Region of Gαs Differentially Couples to the Luteinizing Hormone and β2-Adrenergic Receptors
Authors: DeMars Geneva , Fanelli Francesca , Puett David
Published: May 2011

The mechanisms of G protein coupling to G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) share general characteristics but may exhibit specific interactions unique for each GPCR/G protein partnership. The extreme C terminus (CT) of G protein α-subunits has been shown to be important for association with GPCR. Hypothesizing that the extreme CT of Gαs is an essential component of the molecular landscape of the GPCR, human LH receptor (LHR), and β2-adrenergic receptor (β2-AR), a model cell system was created for the expression and manipulation of Gαs subunits in LHR+ s49 ck cells that lack endogenous Gαs. On the basis of studies involving truncations, mutations, and chain extensions of Gαs, the CT was found to be necessary for LHR and β2-AR signaling. Some general similarities were found for the responses of the two receptors, but significant differences were also noted. Computational modeling was performed with a combination of comparative modeling, molecular dynamics simulations, and rigid body docking. The resulting models, focused on the Gαs CT, are supported by the experimental observations and are characterized by the interaction of the four extreme CT amino acid residues of Gαs with residues in LHR and β2-AR helix 3, (including R of the DRY motif), helix 6, and intracellular loop 2. This portion of Gαs recognizes the same regions of the two GPCR, although with differences in the details of selected interactions. The predicted longer cytosolic extensions of helices 5 and 6 of β2-AR are expected to contribute significantly to differences in Gαs recognition by the two receptors.
Posthumanities and Post-Textualities: ReadingThe Raw Shark TextsandWoman's World
Authors: Wurth Kiene Brillenburg
Published: May 2011

This essay explores how and why the “old” medium of paper has come to function as the matter of a “new” posthuman subjectivity in contemporary fiction (since 2005). Paper, paper-based writing, and the book have long been involved in the cultural construction of “humanness” and human consciousness. Some critics see the ascendancy of electronic media as the inevitable downfall of this culture of “humanness,” but experimental trends in recent fiction precisely point to an implication of paper matter in the construction of a subjectivity beyond the space of interiority and authenticity associated with a “human” selfhood. Selfhood, like text, here becomes assemblage: an assemblage of borrowed words. Focusing on Steven Hall's The Raw Shark Texts and Graham Rawle's Woman's World, I show how writing, text, and self are inextricably intertwined, and how this reinvigorates the contemporaneousness of the novel in the digital age.
Suturing the Wound: Derrida's “on Forgiveness” And Schlink'sThe Reader
Authors: Worthington Kim L.
Published: May 2011

This essay urges a reconsideration of Bernhard Schlink's The Reader and the familiar, if far from transparent, moral terminology of his admirers and detractors alike. It focuses on conceptions of forgiveness in particular, considering these through the lens of Jacques Derrida's essay “On Forgiveness”/“Le Siècle et le Pardon.” Derrida concedes his is a “mad” conception of forgiveness: “what there is to forgive must be, and must remain, unforgivable — such is the logical aporia.” He argues that losing sight of the impossible absolute (forgiveness that forgives the unforgivable) opens the rhetoric of “ordinary” forgiveness to personal and political abuse, to hypocrisy and calculation. Forgiveness might suture a wound, enabling healing and reconciliation, but its closure also ushers in, if not forgetting, an attenuation or weakening of the suffering of victims of unforgiveable crime and the silencing or appropriation of their voices.

Contra critics who argue that Schlink offers an exculpatory, because explanatory, portrayal of his Nazi protagonist and second-generation German narrator, I argue that The Reader exposes the potential for abuse that characterizes the rhetoric of “ordinary” forgiveness. Schlink does not excuse his Nazi perpetrator or invite forgiveness of her, but rather portrays a narrator invested — personally and politically — in the process of exculpation. Reading The Reader alongside Derrida's essay enables reexamination of critical responses to the novel, invites consideration of the invested nature of forgiveness and the “work of mourning” that is reconciliation, and points us towards a better understanding of Derrida's conception of “pure” forgiveness, possible (only) as impossible.
Premature adrenarche: novel lessons from early onset androgen excess
Authors: Idkowiak Jan , Lavery Gareth G , Dhir Vivek , Barrett Timothy G , Stewart Paul M , Krone Nils , Arlt Wiebke
Published: May 2011

Adrenarche reflects the maturation of the adrenal zona reticularis resulting in increased secretion of the adrenal androgen precursor DHEA and its sulphate ester DHEAS. Premature adrenarche (PA) is defined by increased levels of DHEA and DHEAS before the age of 8 years in girls and 9 years in boys and the concurrent presence of signs of androgen action including adult-type body odour, oily skin and hair and pubic hair growth. PA is distinct from precocious puberty, which manifests with the development of secondary sexual characteristics including testicular growth and breast development. Idiopathic PA (IPA) has long been considered an extreme of normal variation, but emerging evidence links IPA to an increased risk of developing the metabolic syndrome (MS) and thus ultimately cardiovascular morbidity. Areas of controversy include the question whether IPA in girls is associated with a higher rate of progression to the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and whether low birth weight increases the risk of developing IPA. The recent discoveries of two novel monogenic causes of early onset androgen excess, apparent cortisone reductase deficiency and apparent DHEA sulphotransferase deficiency, support the notion that PA may represent a forerunner condition for PCOS. Future research including carefully designed longitudinal studies is required to address the apparent link between early onset androgen excess and the development of insulin resistance and the MS.
Economic Impact of Clostridium difficile Infection in a Multihospital Cohort of Academic Health Centers
Authors: Pakyz Amy , Carroll Norman V. , Harpe Spencer E. , Oinonen Michael , Polk Ronald E.
Published: May 2011

Study Objective. To assess the economic impact of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) in a large multihospital cohort.

Design. Retrospective case‐control study.

Data Source. Administrative claims data from 45 academic medical centers.

Patients. A total of 10,857 patients who developed health care‐associated CDI and were discharged between April 1, 2002, and March 31, 2007 (cases); each case patient was matched by hospital, age, quarter and year of hospital discharge, and diagnosis related group to at least one control patient who did not develop health care‐associated CDI (19,214 controls).

Measurements and Main Results. Patients with health care‐associated CDI were identified by using a previously validated method combining the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification code for CDI with specific CDI drug therapy (oral or intravenous metronidazole, or oral vancomycin). Costs were determined from charges by using standardized cost:charges ratios and were adjusted for age, All Patient Refined‐Diagnosis Related Group (APR‐DRG) severity of illness level, race, and sex with use of multivariable linear regression. The adjusted mean cost for cases was significantly higher than that for controls ($55,769 vs $28,609), and adjusted mean length of stay was twice as long (21.1 vs 10.0 days). The interaction between CDI and APR‐DRG severity of illness level was significant; the effect of CDI on costs and length of stay decreased as severity of illness increased.

Conclusion. This large CDI economic evaluation confirms that health care‐associated cases of CDI are associated with significantly higher mean cost and longer length of stay than those of matched controls, with the greatest effect on costs at the lowest level of severity of illness.
Induction Treatment with Rabbit Antithymocyte Globulin versus Basiliximab in Renal Transplant Recipients with Planned Early Steroid Withdrawal
Authors: Martin Spencer T. , Roberts Keri L. , Malek Sayeed K. , Tullius Stefan G. , Vadivel Nidyanandh , De Serres Sacha , Grafals Monica , Elsanjak Abdelaziz , Filkins Beth Anne , Chandraker Anil , Gabardi Steven
Published: May 2011

Study Objective. To compare the safety and efficacy of rabbit antithymocyte globulin (r‐ATG) with basiliximab in renal transplant recipients for whom an early steroid withdrawal (ESW) regimen was planned.

Design. Single‐center, retrospective, cohort study.

Setting. Tertiary care medical center, including inpatient hospital stays and outpatient nephrology clinics.

Patients. Ninety‐nine consecutive adult recipients of living‐ or deceased‐donor renal transplants between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2007, in whom ESW was planned and who received either r‐ATG or basiliximab; patients receiving an extended‐criteria kidney donation or a donation after cardiac death were excluded.

Measurements and Main Results. All patients received mycophenolate mofetil and tacrolimus as maintenance therapy with planned ESW. Induction therapy was either r‐ATG 1.5 mg/kg/day for 4 days (68 patients) or basiliximab 20 mg on postoperative days 0 and 4 (31 patients). The primary composite end point of biopsy‐proven acute rejection (BPAR), graft loss, and death occurred in 6 patients (9%) and 9 patients (29%) in the r‐ATG and basiliximab groups at 1 year after transplantation, respectively (p=0.01), with rates of 7% (5/68 patients) and 26% (8/31 patients) for BPAR (p=0.02), 0% and 3% (1/31 patients) for graft loss (p=0.31), and 2% (1/68 patients) and 0% for patient death (p>0.99). Average time to first BPAR was significantly longer in the r‐ATG group (mean ± SD 151.4 ± 82.9 vs 53.6 ± 68.4 days, p<0.01). Kidney function at 12 months was similar between the two groups.

Conclusion. Rabbit‐ATG was associated with a lower frequency and delayed onset of BPAR compared with basiliximab in renal transplant recipients who received an ESW regimen.
Monotherapy or Combination Therapy? The Pseudomonas aeruginosa Conundrum
Authors: Traugott Kristi A. , Echevarria Kelly , Maxwell Pamela , Green Kay , Lewis James S.
Published: May 2011

The use of combination antibiotic therapy for severe pseudomonal infections is a standard practice in many hospitals; however, the data supporting its use are somewhat unclear. Possible benefits of combination therapy for Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections include in vitro antibiotic synergy, prevention of the emergence of bacterial resistance while receiving therapy, and improved adequacy of empiric therapy. Unfortunately, the potential disadvantages are also considerable, the most worrisome of which are drug toxicity and creation of multidrug‐resistant organisms in the environment. Many in vitro and animal studies have attempted to shed light on this clinically challenging issue; however, these studies have often yielded conflicting results and used different study methods, which limits the clinical utility of the results. Clinical studies have also attempted to clarify this issue, particularly in patients with serious pseudomonal infections such as bacteremia and ventilator‐associated pneumonia, but again, often resulted in conflicting conclusions. Thus, we performed a MEDLINE search (1950‐May 2010) of clinical and in vitro studies evaluating the use of antibiotic combination therapy and monotherapy for bacteremia and pneumonia due to P. aeruginosa. Although a clear answer still eludes this controversy, combination therapy for seriously ill patients suspected of having pseudomonal infection has been shown, with considerable evidence, to improve the likelihood of an active agent being included in the initial antibiotic regimen of these patients. The clinical status of the patient and true likelihood of encountering a multidrug‐resistant organism should be evaluated before deciding on empiric combination therapy. Future research may be able to better identify which patient populations might receive the most benefit from combination therapy rather than using combination therapy for everyone at risk for these infections.
Continuous‐Infusion Neuromuscular Blocking Agents in Critically Ill Neonates and Children
Authors: Johnson Peter N. , Miller Jamie , Gormley Andrew K.
Published: May 2011

Neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs) are often administered as a prolonged (> 24 hrs) continuous infusion in infants and children in the intensive care unit for a variety of reasons including facilitation of oxygenation and ventilation. No guidelines on the use of NMBAs in pediatric patients are available yet in the United States; however, pediatric guidelines are available in the United Kingdom. Based on a 2007 U.S. survey, the most commonly used nondepolarizing NMBAs for sustained neuromuscular blockade in critically ill children are pancuronium and vecuronium. Recent national drug shortages involving NMBAs have been reported for atracurium, cisatracurium, pancuronium, rocuronium, and vecuronium. Therefore, to explore alternative options for neuromuscular blockade, we conducted a literature search to identify articles evaluating prolonged use (> 24 hrs) of NMBAs administered by continuous infusion. The search was limited to English‐language articles in the MEDLINE (1950‐August 2010), EMBASE (1988‐August 2010), International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (1970‐August 2010), and Cochrane Library (1996‐August 2010) databases. Relevant abstracts, reference citations, and manufacturers' product information were also reviewed. A total of 13 reports representing 208 children were included in the analysis. Many of the reports described wide interpatient variability in dosing for the specific NMBAs evaluated. Selection of the most appropriate NMBA should be based on the patient's clinical status, potential adverse effects, and pharmacoeconomics. All patients receiving sustained neuromuscular blockade should be monitored routinely to ensure that dosing is appropriate in order to obtain the desired level of blockade. The goal is to use the lowest dose possible in an effort to limit adverse effects or prolonged blockade.
A Nurse-coordinated Model of Care versus Usual Care for Stage 3/4 Chronic Kidney Disease in the Community
Authors: Barrett Brendan J. , Garg Amit X. , Goeree Ron , Levin Adeera , Molzahn Anita , Rigatto Claudio , Singer Joel , Soltys George , Soroka Steven , Ayers Dieter , Parfrey Patrick S.
Published: May 2011

Background and objectives

It is unclear how to optimally care for chronic kidney disease (CKD). This study compares a new coordinated model to usual care for CKD.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

A randomized trial in nephrology clinics and the community included 474 patients with median estimated GFR (eGFR) 42 ml/min per 1.73 m2 identified by laboratory-based case finding compared care coordinated by a general practitioner (controls) with care by a nurse-coordinated team including a nephrologist (intervention) for a median (interquartile range [IQR]) of 742 days. 32% were diabetic, 60% had cardiovascular disease, and proteinuria was minimal. Guided by protocols, the intervention team targeted risk factors for adverse kidney and cardiovascular outcomes. Serial eGFR and clinical events were tracked.

Results

The average decline in eGFR over 20 months was −1.9 ml/min per 1.73 m2. eGFR declined by ≥4 ml/min per 1.73 m2 within 20 months in 28 (17%) intervention patients versus 23 (13.9%) control patients. Control of BP, LDL, and diabetes were comparable across groups. In the intervention group there was a trend to greater use of renin-angiotensin blockers and more use of statins in those with initial LDL >2.5 mmol/L. Treatment was rarely required for anemia, acidosis, or disordered mineral metabolism. Clinical events occurred in 5.2% per year.

Conclusions

Patients with stage 3/4 CKD identified through community laboratories largely had nonprogressive kidney disease but had cardiovascular risk. Over a median of 24 months, the nurse-coordinated team did not affect rate of GFR decline or control of most risk factors compared with usual care.
A coverage metric to evaluate tests for continuous-time dynamic systems
Authors: Skruch Paweł
Published: May 2011

We present a test quality measure that allows for quantifying the completeness of black-box tests for continuous-time dynamic systems. The measure is based on a state space model of the system under test. The metric has been called the state space coverage. The classical coverage metrics, such as statement, branch, and path coverage, are not appropriate for dynamic systems because such systems are defined by differential equations and usually have an infinite number of states. The objective of the paper is to develop a necessary foundation for the metric as well as to present guidance on its application to software systems that incorporate dynamic behavior. The purpose of the proposed solution is to better assure the test engineer that a given test set is sufficient and to indicate where additional testing is required. An application example is presented to illustrate theoretical analysis and mathematical formulation.
Gravettian environmental changes in a N — S transect of central Europe
Authors: Musil Rudolf
Published: May 2011

The area defined as the N — S transect of Central Europe encompasses Slovenia, Croatia, Hungary, southern Slovakia, northern Austria, Moravia and southern Poland. Physical and biological environmental analysis have been undertaken for the Gravettian period of the last glacial, between 31 and 22 ka cal BP. Mammal faunas have been recorded from different provinces, which have climatic differences. These climatic differences are reflected in the sediments, the plant cover and the fauna. Over the course of several warm and cold events from 31–22 ka the biodiversity of the individual provinces has remained roughly the same, but important quantitative changes have occurred in the individual faunas.
Syntaxonomy and Site Ecology of a Central Italy Forest Landscape
Authors: Tardella Federico , Vitanzi Alessandra , Sparvoli Daniele , Catorci Andrea
Published: May 2011

Syntaxonomy and Site Ecology of a Central Italy Forest Landscape

A phytosociological survey of a woodland located in the central part of Umbria (Central Italy) was carried out using the Braun-Blanquet method: 80 relevés were classified through cluster analysis. Nine forestsyntaxawere reported and three subassociations (Erico arboreae-Quercetum cerridis lathyretosum veneti, Aceri obtusati-Quercetum cerridis arbutetosum unedonisandCyclamino hederifolii-Quercetum ilicis quercetosum cerridis) were typified. Topographic data (altitude, aspect, slope, morphology) and pedological data (soil pH, texture and depth) were collected and a synecological analysis ofsyntaxawas performed. In order to understand the relation between environmental factors and plant communities, a Canonical Correspondence Analysis was run. The results showed soil parameters (pH, texture and depth) and altitude as the main ecological factors explaining the distribution of plant communities in the study area. The combination of topographic factors (aspect, morphology and slope angle) influences, by contrast revealed the distribution of forestsyntaxawithin homogeneous geo-pedological and bioclimatic conditions.
New Virgulid Cercaria (Trematoda, Lecithodendroidea) from the Mollusk Melanopsis praemorsa (Melanopsidae) from Azerbaijan Water Bodies. Morphology and Chaetotaxy of Cercaria agstaphensis 11
Authors: Manafov A.
Published: May 2011

New Virgulid Cercaria (Trematoda, Lecithodendroidea) from the Mollusk Melanopsis praemorsa (Melanopsidae) from Azerbaijan Water Bodies. Morphology and Chaetotaxy of Cercaria agstaphensis 11

An illustrated morphological description with chaetotaxy and differential diagnosis of the new form of virgulid cercaria — Cercaria agstaphensis 11 from freshwater prosobranchial mollusks Melanopsis praemorsa (Linnaeus, 1758) are given. Special attention is paid to the tegument armament, the structure of glandular apparatus, excretory system, digestive system, the structure of the sensory apparatus and other larval morphological characters.
Rove Beetles of the Genus Gyrophaena (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae) of Ukraine
Authors: Glotov S. , Petrenko A. , Mateleshko A.
Published: May 2011

Rove Beetles of the Genus Gyrophaena (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae) of Ukraine

Twenty species of the genus Gyrophaena Mannerheim, 1830, from Ukraine are reviewed. Of these, five species: G. joyi Wendeler, 1924; G. joyioides Wüsthoff, 1937; G. orientalis A. Strand, 1938; G. pseudonana A. Strand, 1939 and G. williamsi A. Strand, 1935, are recorded from Ukraine for the first time. Detailed morphological descriptions, data on bionomics and distribution are given for each species. A key to all subgenera and species of the genus Gyrophaena occurring in Ukraine is provided.
Social Behavior of Captive Black-Tailed Prairie Dogs (Mammalia, Rodentia) with Changing Numbers of Observers
Authors: Eltorai A. , Sussman R.
Published: May 2011

Social Behavior of Captive Black-Tailed Prairie Dogs (Mammalia, Rodentia) with Changing Numbers of Observers

Black-tailed prairie dogs Cynomys ludovicianus (Ord, 1815) are diurnal rodents that live in intricate cities. Their social complexity rivals that of some primates, and, in some respects, resembles the behavior of humans. Due to the rich variety of readily-observable, sophisticated behaviors such as coloniality, infanticide, anti-predator behaviors, "kin recognition", cooperation, conflict, and reproductive success, the black-tailed prairie dog is a wonderful model species for the study of behavior. Using a captive population, we were able to quantify the effects of observation on key social behaviors.
Charletonia stekolnikovi sp. n. (Acari, Erythraeidae) from Iran
Authors: Hakimitabar M. , Saboori A.
Published: May 2011

Charletonia stekolnikovi sp. n. (Acari, Erythraeidae) from Iran

Charletonia stekolnikovi sp. n. (Acari, Erythraeidae) is described and illustrated from herbaceous plants (off host) from Taleghan city, Tehran province, Iran.
New Species of Stilbus (Coleoptera, Clavicornia, Phalacridae) from the Late Eocene Rovno Amber
Authors: Lyubarsky G. , Perkovsky E.
Published: May 2011

New Species ofStilbus(Coleoptera, Clavicornia, Phalacridae) from the Late Eocene Rovno Amber

The first Eocene species ofStilbusSeidlitz, 1872,S. bedovoyiLyubarsky et Perkovsky, sp. n., is described from Late Eocene Rovno amber.S. bedovoyiis most similar toStilbus atomarius(Linnaeus) and differs from it by smaller body size, strong and large punctation of elytra, and broadly oval apex of elytra.
Uppermost Jurassic and lowermost Cretaceous dinocyst successions of Siberia, the Subarctic Urals and Russian Platform and their interregional correlation
Authors: Pestchevitskaya Ekaterina , Lebedeva Natalia , Ryabokon Alyona
Published: May 2011

Uppermost Jurassic and lowermost Cretaceous dinocyst successions of Siberia, the Subarctic Urals and Russian Platform and their interregional correlation

Uppermost Jurassic and lowermost Cretaceous dinocyst successions calibrated against ammonite and foraminiferal zones were studied in five sections from North Siberia, the Subarctic Urals and the Russian Platform. Together with analysis of published palynological material on additional contemporaneous sections from the Russian Platform, our research provides a reliable regional correlation. The obtained biostratigraphic results are compared to palynological data from different regions of Europe, America, Australia and Antarctica using the method of first/last appearances of selected key species and evolutionary trends of dinocyst floras. Four correlative levels are defined in the middle parts of the Volgian and Berriasian and near their tops providing interregional correlation of dinocyst successions. These levels range within 1-1.5 ammonite zones as the first/last appearances of some key species have minor stratigraphic shifts in different sections that may be related to migration processes or to a different understanding of the stratigraphic position of ammonite zones.
First record of the genus Bronnothyris (Brachiopoda: Megathyrididae) from the Oligocene of the Mainz Basin (Germany)
Authors: Bitner Maria , Kroh Andreas
Published: May 2011

First record of the genusBronnothyris(Brachiopoda: Megathyrididae) from the Oligocene of the Mainz Basin (Germany)

The genusBronnothyris, with the type speciesTerebratula bronniiRoemer, 1841, was erected for thoseArgyrothecaspecies that have septal flanges extended ventrally from the dorsal valve. Four other Late Cretaceous and one Early Paleocene species were attributed to this genus (i.e.Argyrotheca coniunctaSteinich, 1965,A. lacunosaSteinich, 1965,A. obstinataSteinich, 1965,A. stevensisNielsen, 1928 andA. rugicostaZelinskaya, 1975). After examination of Oligocene material from Waldböckelheim, Mainz Basin, Germany we transfer the speciesArgiope subradiataSandberger, 1862 into the genusBronnothyris. This new combination extends the stratigraphic range ofBronnothyrisinto the Oligocene.
A late Burdigalian bathyal mollusc fauna from the Vienna Basin (Slovakia)
Authors: Harzhauser Mathias , Mandic Oleg , Schlögl Jan
Published: May 2011

A late Burdigalian bathyal mollusc fauna from the Vienna Basin (Slovakia)

This is the first record of a bathyal mollusc fauna from the late Early Miocene of the Central Paratethys. The assemblage shows clear affinities to coeval faunas of the Turin Hills in the Mediterranean area and the Aquitaine Basin in France. The overall biostratigraphic value of the assemblage is hard to estimate due to the general very poor knowledge of Miocene bathyal faunas. Several species, however, are known from deep water deposits of the Middle Miocene Badenian stage as well. This implies Early Miocene roots of parts of the Middle Miocene deep water fauna and suggests a low turnover for bathyal mollusc communities at the Early-Middle Miocene boundary. The nassariid gastropodNassarius janschloegliHarzhauser nov. sp. and the naticid gastropodPolinices cerovaensisHarzhauser nov. sp. are introduced as new species.
Biostratigraphy and paleoecology of the Burdigalian-Serravallian sediments in Wadi Sudr (Gulf of Suez, Egypt): comparison with the Central Paratethys evolution
Authors: Ied Ibrahim , Holcová Katarína , Abd-Elshafy Ezzat
Published: May 2011

Biostratigraphy and paleoecology of the Burdigalian-Serravallian sediments in Wadi Sudr (Gulf of Suez, Egypt): comparison with the Central Paratethys evolution

Two main Miocene facies were recorded in the Gulf of Suez area: a deep marine and a coastal facies. The analysed sections in the Wadi Sudr area belong to the marine facies. The Lower Miocene (Burdigalian) is represented by coastal, shallow marine sediments, rich in coral, algae, gastropods and large pectinids followed by Langhian open marine sediments and Serravallian lagoonal carbonates. The open marine sediments contain well preserved planktonic and benthic foraminifers and abundant ostracods. The parts of the sections containing foraminifers have been correlated with three planktonic foraminiferal zones (Praeorbulina glomerosa Zone, Orbulina ZoneandGloborotalia praemenardii-Globorotalia peripherorondaZone). Two benthic ecozones were defined (Heterolepa dutemplei-Laevidentalina elegans ZoneandBolivina compressa-Elphidiumspp. Zone). Two cycles of sea-level changes can be distinguished and correlated with global sea-level cycles Bur5/Lan1 and Ser1. The first (Langhian) cycle culminated in open marine sublittoral to upper bathyal well aerated sediments. The second (Serravallian) cycle was shallower, littoral suboxic sediments were overlaid by euryhaline carbonates. The studied foraminifera-bearing sediments can be correlated with the lower and Middle Badenian of the Central Paratethys. Though the area of the Gulf of Suez and the Central Paratethys were situated in different climatic zones, and influenced by different tectonic events, the main paleoenvironmental events (sea-level changes, oxygen decrease, salinity changes) are comparable. This correspondence shows that the decisive factors triggering these events were global climatic events.
Upper Miocene Pannonian sediments from Belgrade (Serbia): new evidence and paleoenvironmental considerations
Authors: Rundić Ljupko , Ganić Meri , Knežević Slobodan , Soliman Ali
Published: May 2011

Upper Miocene Pannonian sediments from Belgrade (Serbia): new evidence and paleoenvironmental considerations

The Late Miocene sublittoral marls of the Pannonian Stage (the long-lived Lake Pannon) were studied. From neotectonic point of view, the investigated area represents a natural border between two different morphostructural domains: the Pannonian Basin to the north and the Peri-Pannonian Realm to the south. More than 20 mollusc and 34 ostracod species were identified which indicate the upper part of the Lower Pannonian and the lower part of the Middle Pannonian ("Serbian") predominantly. The identified dinoflagellate cyst assemblage (21 taxa) hinders assignment of the studied samples to a Pannonian substage but supports the high endemism of the Pannonian flora. The lithostratigraphical, paleontological, and paleoecological analyses indicate a mesohaline (8-16 ‰), sublittoral (<90 m deep) environment of the early Lake Pannon. The estimated stratigraphic range for the investigated deposits is 9.8-11.4 Ma.
Neotectonics, drainage pattern and geomorphology of the orogen-parallel Upper Enns Valley (Eastern Alps)
Authors: Keil Melanie , Neubauer Franz
Published: May 2011

Neotectonics, drainage pattern and geomorphology of the orogen-parallel Upper Enns Valley (Eastern Alps)

The geomorphology and neotectonics of the Upper Enns Valley (Austria) in the Eastern Alps reveal the formation of a fault-controlled orogen-parallel valley. In the study area, the Eastern Alps have been under surface uplift since Early Miocene times. Quaternary processes such as uplift and cyclic glaciations likely interfere with neotectonic activity as the Upper Enns Valley follows the Salzach-Enns-Mariazell-Puchberg (SEMP) fault. The geomorphologically different landscapes comprise three main tectonic units: (1) the Austroalpine crystalline basement exposed in the Niedere Tauern, (2) the Austroalpine Paleozoic units (Greywacke Zone) and (3) the Dachstein Plateau dominated by Triassic carbonate successions. The Upper Pleistocene Ramsau Conglomerate overlying the Greywacke Zone on the northern slope of the Upper Enns Valley is a crucial element to reconstruct the evolution of the valley. A new14C date (uncalibrated) indicates an age older than 53,300 years, outside of the analytical limit of the methods. Provenance analysis of the Ramsau Conglomerate shows the Niedere Tauern as a source region and consequently a post-early Late Pleistocene dissection of the landscape by the Upper Enns Valley. Paleosurfaces at elevations of about 1100 m on the northern and southern slopes of the Upper Enns Valley allow us to estimate surface uplift/incision of about 2.5 mm/yr. Regularly oriented outcrop-scale faults and joints of the Ramsau Conglomerate document Pleistocene to Holocene tectonic deformation, which is consistent with ongoing seismicity. Paleostress tensors deduced from slickensides and striae of pre-Cenozoic basement rocks indicate two stages of Late Cretaceous to Paleogene deformation independent of the SEMP fault; the Oligocene-Neogene evolution comprises NW-SE strike-slip compression followed by E-W compression and Late Pleistocene ca. E-W extension, the latter recorded in the Ramsau Conglomerate.
Physiology and biochemistry of leaf bleaching in prematurely aging maple (Acer saccharinum L.) trees: I. Hydrogen peroxide level, antioxidative responses and photosynthetic pigments
Authors: Užarević Zvonimir , Štolfa Ivna , Parađiković Nada , Cesar Vera , Lepeduš Hrvoje
Published: May 2011

Physiology and biochemistry of leaf bleaching in prematurely aging maple (Acer saccharinumL.) trees: I. Hydrogen peroxide level, antioxidative responses and photosynthetic pigments

Essential signaling processes such as changes in calcium mobilization, protein phosphorylation and gene expression are known to be modulated by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). A lot of silver maple trees in the city of Osijek (Croatia) were noticed to have bleached leaves by early summer as well as during the whole vegetation season. In this study we aimed to investigate the processes that regulate H2O2levels in healthy (green) and prematurely aged (bleached) leaves. For that purpose, photosynthetic performance and antioxidative response of green and bleached silver maple leaves were studied. Bleached leaves had higher hydrogen peroxide level, a three-fold level of total soluble proteins as well as a lower level of ascorbic acid. Concentrations of chlorophylla, chlorophyllb, total chlorophylls and total carotenoids as well as maximum quantum yield of photosystem II were lower in bleached leaves. This indicated their impaired photosynthetic performance. Further more, bleached leaves were characterized by lower specific activities of the main antioxidative enzymes, which influenced their reactive oxygen species scavenging capability. The higher level of H2O2content in bleached leaves as the consequence of reduced antioxidative enzyme specific activities as well as ascorbic acid level could be the reason for the down-regulation of photosynthetic performance and premature aging of those leaves.
Physiology and biochemistry of leaf bleaching in prematurely aging maple (Acer saccharinum L.) trees. II. Functional and molecular adjustment of PSII
Authors: Lepeduš Hrvoje , Begović Lidija , MlinarIć Selma , Šimić Domagoj , Štolfa Ivna , Parađiković Nada , Užarević Zvonimir , Jurković Vlatka , Cesar Vera
Published: May 2011

Physiology and biochemistry of leaf bleaching in prematurely aging maple (Acer saccharinumL.) trees. II. Functional and molecular adjustment of PSII

In the present study we aimed to investigate physiological and molecular mechanisms of photosynthetic performance decline in prematurely aged bleached leaves of silver maple (Acer saccharinumL.) trees. We usedin vivochlorophyllafluorescence measurement to analyze changes in PSII photochemistry, relative abundance of photosynthetic proteins (D1, LHCII, Cytfand Rubisco LSU), relations between chlorophylls and their precursor protochlorophyllide as well as elemental composition of the leaves. Decreases in Al, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Zn and an increase in S concentrations were found in bleached leaves in comparison to healthy green ones. The bleached leaves were visually expressing symptoms characteristic of Fe deficiency. Further, they had considerably decreased chlorophyll contents and protochlorophyllide contents, overall photosynthetic activity and relative abundance of major photosynthetic proteins. All the results indicate that modifications in the molecular organization of photosynthetic electron-transport chain components in bleached leaves led to functional adaptation of the PSII achieved by modifications of some reaction centres (RCs), turning them from active to dissipative. This provided efficient adaptation of bleached leaves to high-light induced oxidative damage during summer.
Cyanobacteria of the thermal spring at Pancharevo, Sofia, Bulgaria
Authors: Lukavský Jaromír , Furnadzhieva Sevdalina , Pilarski Plamen
Published: May 2011

Cyanobacteria of the thermal spring at Pancharevo, Sofia, Bulgaria

Eight taxa of cyanobacteria were identified in the thermal spring at Pancharevo (in the Sofia basin, Bulgaria). As well as the widespreadLyngbya thermalis, Phormidesmis molle(syn.Phormidium molle), Phormidium papyraceum, Phormidium coriumandMastigocladus laminosus, four species were identified for the first time in Bulgaria:Calothrix thermalis, Gloeocapsa gelatinosa, Leibleinia epiphyticaandSymploca thermalis.
Diversity and Distribution of the Dinoflagellates Brachidinium, Asterodinium and Microceratium (Brachidiniales, Dinophyceae) in the open Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Gómez Fernando
Published: May 2011

Diversity and Distribution of the DinoflagellatesBrachidinium, AsterodiniumandMicroceratium(Brachidiniales, Dinophyceae) in the open Mediterranean Sea

Brachidiniacean dinoflagellates have been investigated in the open waters of the Mediterranean Sea, along a transect from the south of France to the south of Cyprus (20 June-18 July 2008).BrachidiniumandKarenia papilionaceaoften co-occurred,B. capitatumpredominating in the surface waters. The highest abundance ofBrachidiniumwere found in the upper 25min the western Mediterranean with amaximum (24 cells L-1) at a depth of 5 m in the Balearic Sea.Asterodinium(up to 4 cells L-1) was recorded below of deep chlorophyll maxima. The genusMicroceratium, only known from the tropical Indo-Pacific region, is reported for the first time in the Mediterranean Sea.Microceratiumwas found below 100min the eastern Mediterranean Sea, with the highest abundance of 8 cells L-1at 125 m depth, in the Levantine Basin. This study also illustrates for the first time specimens under the division ofBrachidiniumandMicroceratium. This first occurrence ofMicroceratiumin the Mediterranean Sea should be considered an indicator of climate warming. However, it should not be considered a non-indigenous taxon.Microceratiumis the ‘tropical morphotype’, the adaptation of a local species (a life stage ofKarenia - Brachidinium - Asterodinium) to the tropical environmental conditions that prevail in summer in the open Mediterranean Sea.
Crescent sign on magnetic resonance angiography revealing incomplete stent apposition: correlation with diffusion-weighted changes in stent-mediated coil embolization of aneurysms
Authors: Heller Robert S. , Miele William R. , Do-Dai Daniel D. , Malek Adel M.
Published: May 2011

Object

Few data are available on how closely stents appose the luminal vessel wall in stent-mediated coil embolization of intracranial aneurysms and on the effect of incomplete stent apposition on procedural thromboembolic complications.

Methods

Postprocedural 3-T MR diffusion-weighted imaging and time-of-flight angiography were obtained in 58 patients undergoing stent-mediated coil embolization of aneurysms using the Enterprise closed-cell and Neuroform open-cell self-expanding intracranial microstents.

Results

A distinctive semilunar signal pattern, identified using 3-T MR angiography, represented flow outside the confines of the stent struts in patients in whom Enterprise but not Neuroform devices were used. This pattern, designated as the crescent sign, was confirmed to correspond to incomplete stent apposition by use of high-resolution angiographic flat-panel CT scanning revealing flow ingress into and egress out of the isolated luminal wedge. The presence of the crescent sign was seen in 18 of 33 Enterprise-treated but in 0 of 25 Neuroform-treated cases, and was more likely in stents delivered in the tortuous internal carotid artery (p = 0.034). The crescent sign was strongly predictive of ipsilateral postprocedural lesions seen on diffusion-weighted imaging in the entire population (OR 18, 95% CI 4.33–74.8; p < 0.0001). In the Enterprise stent subset, ipsilateral lesions were detected on diffusion-weighted imaging in 15 (45%) of 33 cases; the crescent sign was seen in 12 (80%) of 15 patients with ipsilateral lesions on diffusion-weighted imaging, but in only 6 of 18 patients without lesions (OR 8, 95% CI 1.61–39.6; p = 0.006).

Conclusions

Incomplete stent apposition is detectable on 3-T MR angiography as a crescent sign, and was found to be highly prevalent in Enterprise closed-cell design stents used to assist coil embolization of aneurysms. Incomplete stent apposition was also associated with periprocedural ipsilateral hyperintense lesions on diffusion-weighted imaging. These results identify an association between incomplete stent apposition and thromboembolic complications in stent-mediated coil embolization of intracranial aneurysms.
Nerve injury during the transpsoas approach for lumbar fusion
Authors: Houten John K. , Alexandre Lucien C. , Nasser Rani , Wollowick Adam L.
Published: May 2011

A lateral transpsoas approach to achieve interbody fusion in the lumbar spine using either the extreme lateral interbody fusion or direct lateral interbody fusion technique is an increasingly popular method to treat spinal disease. Dissection and dilation through the iliopsoas muscle places the lumbosacral plexus at risk for injury, but there is very limited information in the published literature about adverse clinical events resulting in postoperative motor deficits or reports of failure of electrophysiological monitoring to detect nerve injury. The authors present 2 cases of postoperative motor deficits following the transpsoas approach not detected by intraoperative monitoring, review the medical literature, and discuss strategies for complication avoidance.
Study on the Expression and Clinical Significances of Lewis y Antigen and Integrin αv, β3 in Epithelial Ovarian Tumors
Authors: Wang Yifei , Liu Juanjuan , Lin Bei , Wang Changzhi , Li Quanrong , Liu Shuice , Yan Limei , Zhang Shulan , Iwamori Masao
Published: May 2011

Objective: To detect the expression and clinical significances of Lewis y antigen and integrin αv, β3 in epithelial ovarian tumors, and to explore the expression correlation between Lewis y antigen and integrin αv, β3. Methods: Immunohistochemical staining was performed in 95 cases of epithelial ovarian cancer, 37 cases of borderline tumors, 20 cases of benign tumors, and 20 cases of normal ovarian tissue, for the detection of Lewis y antigen and integrin αv, β3 expressions, and to analyze the relationship between Lewis y antigen and integrin, and the relationship between clinical and pathological parameters of ovarian cancer. In addition, immunofluorescence double labeling was utilized to detect the expression correlation between Lewis y antigen and integrin αv, β3 in ovarian cancer. Results: In epithelial ovarian tumors, the expression rate of Lewis y antigen was 81.05%, significantly higher than that of borderline (51.53%) (P < 0.05) and benign (25%) (P < 0.01) tumors, and normal ovarian tissues (0) (P < 0.01). The expression rate of integrin αv, β3 in malignant epithelial ovarian tumors was 78.95% and 82.11%, respectively, significantly higher than that of the borderline (45.94%, 40.54%) (both P < 0.05), benign group (10.00%, 15.00%) (both P < 0.01) and normal ovary group (5%, 15%) (both P < 0.01). Conclusions: Lewis y and integrins αv, β3 are relevant to pelvic and abdominal diffusion and metastasis of ovarian cancer cells, suggesting that these two molecules mediate a boosting function for tumor metastasis.
In Vitro and In Vivo Antitumor Activity of Scutellaria barbate Extract on Murine Liver Cancer
Authors: Dai Zhi-Jun , Gao Jie , Li Zong-Fang , Ji Zong-Zheng , Kang Hua-Feng , Guan Hai-Tao , Diao Yan , Wang Bao-Feng , Wang Xi-Jing
Published: May 2011

In the present study, we investigated the in vitro and in vivo antitumor effects of crude extract of Scutellaria barbate (CE-SB) on mouse hepatoma H22 cells. The MTT assay was used to determine the growth inhibition of H22 cells in vitro. The in vivo therapeutic effects of CE-SB were determined using H22 tumor bearing mice. Besides, the body weight, tumor weight, thymus index and spleen index of H22 bearing mice were also measured. The tumor inhibitory rate (IR) was calculated according to the mean weight of tumor (MWT). The phagocytotic function of macrophages was examined by observing peritoneal macrophages phagocytize chicken RBC. The results showed that CE-SB could inhibit the growth of hepatoma H22 Cells in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, CE-SB could improve immune function of H22 tumor bearing mice. Together these results indicate that CE-SB has antitumor activity and seems to be safe and effective for the use of anti-tumor therapy.
Targeting Oncogenic Protein-Protein Interactions by Diversity Oriented Synthesis and Combinatorial Chemistry Approaches
Authors: Tzakos Andreas G. , Fokas Demosthenes , Johannes Charlie , Moussis Vassilios , Hatzimichael Eleftheria , Briasoulis Evangelos
Published: May 2011

We are currently witnessing a decline in the development of efficient new anticancer drugs, despite the salient efforts made on all fronts of cancer drug discovery. This trend presumably relates to the substantial heterogeneity and the inherent biological complexity of cancer, which hinder drug development success. Protein-protein interactions (PPIs) are key players in numerous cellular processes and aberrant interruption of this complex network provides a basis for various disease states, including cancer. Thus, it is now believed that cancer drug discovery, in addition to the design of single-targeted bioactive compounds, should also incorporate diversity-oriented synthesis (DOS) and other combinatorial strategies in order to exploit the ability of multi-functional scaffolds to modulate multiple protein-protein interactions (biological hubs). Throughout the review, we highlight the chemistry driven approaches to access diversity space for the discovery of small molecules that disrupt oncogenic PPIs, namely the p53-Mdm2, Bcl-2/Bcl-xL-BH3, Myc-Max, and p53-Mdmx/Mdm2 interactions.