bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of sulfuric acid-assisted glycerol pretreatment of sugarcane bagasse
Authors: Martín Carlos , Puls Jürgen , Schreiber Andreas , Saake Bodo
Published: February 2013

A combined pretreatment of sugarcane bagasse with glycerol and sulfuric acid was investigated based on a central composite rotatable experimental design. The following factors were varied: temperature (150–199°C), time (0.69–2.3 h), H2SO4 concentration (0.0–1.1%), and glycerol concentration (55.4–79.6%). Xylans and lignin were considerably solubilized during pretreatment. Xylan solubilization, ranging between 6% and 94%, increased significantly with the increase of temperature, time, and H2SO4 concentration and dropped with the increase of glycerol amount. Glycerol restricted the solubilization and full hydrolysis of xylans and the degradation of xylose. Lignin solubilization (20.6–49.4%) increased with the increase of all the experimental factors. Cellulose recovery, which was generally high, increased with the increasing of glycerol concentration and declined at high levels of the other factors. Recoveries above 97% were achieved at low H2SO4 concentration and high glycerol load, whereas the lowest value (83.4%) was achieved in the longest-lasting experiment. The models based on the experimental results predicted the maximal lignin solubilization at 187.7°C, 2.3 h, 79.6% glycerol, and 0.64% H2SO4, whereas the highest yield of enzymatic hydrolysis can be expected at 194.1°C, 1.67 h, 79.6% glycerol, and 1.1% H2SO4. The optimal conditions were confirmed in control experiments. The synergistic effect of sulfuric acid and glycerol on the enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose was demonstrated.
Emotional Connotations of Diatonic Modes
Authors: Temperley David , Tan Daphne
Published: February 2013

In this experiment, participants (nonmusicians) heard pairs of melodies and had to judge which of the two melodies was happier. Each pair consisted of a single melody presented in two different diatonic modes (Lydian, Ionian, Mixolydian, Dorian, Aeolian, or Phrygian) with a constant tonic of C; all pairs of modes were used. The results suggest that modes imply increasing happiness as scale-degrees are raised, with the exception of Lydian, which is less happy than Ionian. Overall, the results are best explained by familiarity: Ionian (major mode), the most common mode in both classical and popular music, is the happiest, and happiness declines with increasing distance from Ionian. However, familiarity does not entirely explain our results. Familiarity predicts that Mixolydian would be happier than Lydian (since they are equally similar to Ionian, and Mixolydian is much more common in popular music); but for almost half of our participants, the reverse was true. This suggests that the “sharpness” of a mode also affects its perceived happiness, either due to pitch height or to the position of the scale relative to the tonic on the “line of fifths”; we favor the latter explanation.
The Effect of Timbre and Loudness on Melody Segregation
Authors: Marozeau Jeremy , Innes-Brown Hamish , Blamey Peter J.
Published: February 2013

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of three acoustic parameters on the difficulty of segregating a simple 4-note melody from a background of interleaved distractor notes. Melody segregation difficulty ratings were recorded while three acoustic parameters of the distractor notes were varied separately: intensity, temporal envelope, and spectral envelope. Statistical analyses revealed a significant effect of music training on difficulty rating judgments. For participants with music training, loudness was the most efficient perceptual cue, and no difference was found between the dimensions of timbre influenced by temporal and spectral envelope. For the group of listeners with less music training, both loudness and spectral envelope were the most efficient cues. We speculate that the difference between musicians and nonmusicians may be due to differences in processing the stimuli: musicians may process harmonic sound sequences using brain networks specialized for music, whereas nonmusicians may use speech networks.
Mental Practice in Music Memorization: An Ecological-Empirical Study
Authors: Bernardi Nicolò Francesco , Schories Alexander , Jabusch Hans-Christian , Colombo Barbara , Altenmüller Eckart
Published: February 2013

The present study aims to systematically describe mental practice (MP) in music memorization, with regard to individual differences in the use of different MP strategies and their performance outcomes. Sixteen pianists were studied while they memorized piano pieces. Each subject memorized two pieces, either via MP or physical practice (PP). In order to keep the setting as ecologically valid as possible within the experimental setup, we allowed subjects to freely apply their preferred MP strategies with the exception of physically playing a real piano. Practice and performances were video documented and expert rated; practice strategies were reported in researcher-developed questionnaires. The use of MP alone led to successful music learning. MP combined with PP produced results that were indistinguishable from those following PP alone. Pitch imagery and structural analysis were associated with better post-MP performance. Results are discussed in the frame of expert memory theory (Chase & Simon, 1973; Chaffin, Logan, & Begosh, 2009) and practical implications for musicians are provided.
Systematic Distortions in Musicians’ Reproduction of Cyclic Three-Interval Rhythms
Authors: Repp Bruno H. , London Justin , Keller Peter E.
Published: February 2013

In a classic study, Fraisse (1956) demonstrated that sequences of four sounds defining three different interval durations exhibit characteristic distortions in reproduction: The two more similar intervals tend to be assimilated to each other, resulting in a rhythm containing just two interval durations. The present study examined whether highly trained musicians (including percussionists) are able to perform such rhythms accurately in a synchronization-continuation tapping paradigm. Eleven rhythms, a subset of those used by Fraisse, were presented cyclically at his original tempo and also at a slower tempo. The musicians produced significant rhythm distortions, though they were smaller than those observed by Fraisse and not always assimilative. They were relatively larger at the fast than at the slow tempo and occurred in both synchronization and continuation. In contrast to Fraisse’s data, the most variably reproduced target rhythm was the one in which the two longer intervals were identical. The pattern of distortions suggested attraction towards ideal rhythms in which all three interval durations are different, representing metrical categories with nominally simple interval ratios (some permutation of 1:2:3) that were probably activated by the cyclic presentation of the rhythms. However, these attractors themselves seemed to be somewhat distorted, perhaps reflecting the simultaneous presence of a nonmetrical attractor that differentiated two interval categories regardless of ratio, as observed by Fraisse.
A Review of Music and Emotion Studies: Approaches, Emotion Models, and Stimuli
Authors: Eerola Tuomas , Vuoskoski Jonna K.
Published: February 2013

The field of music and emotion research has grown rapidly and diversified during the last decade. This has led to a certain degree of confusion and inconsistency between competing notions of emotions, data, and results. The present review of 251 studies describes the focus of prevalent research approaches, methods, and models of emotion, and documents the types of musical stimuli used over the past twenty years. Although self-report approaches to emotions are the most common way of dealing with music and emotions, using multiple approaches is becoming increasingly popular. A large majority (70%) of the studies employed variants of the discrete or the dimensional emotion models. A large proportion of stimuli rely on a relatively modest amount of familiar classical examples. The evident shortcomings of these prevalent patterns in music and emotion studies are highlighted, and concrete plans of action for future studies are suggested.
Short stature in two siblings heterozygous for a novel bioinactive GH mutant (GH-P59S) suggesting that the mutant also affects secretion of the wild-type GH
Authors: Petkovic Vibor , Miletta Maria Consolata , Boot Annemieke M , Losekoot Monique , Flück Christa E , Pandey Amit V , Eblé Andrée , Wit Jan Maarten , Mullis Primus E
Published: February 2013

Objective

Short stature caused by biologically inactive GH is clinically characterized by lack of GH action despite normal-high secretion of GH, pathologically low IGF1 concentrations and marked catch-up growth on GH replacement therapy.

Design and methods

Adopted siblings (girl and a boy) of unknown family history were referred for assessment of short stature (−4.5 and −5.6 SDS) at the age of 10 and 8.1 years respectively. They had delayed bone ages (6.8 and 4.5 years), normal GH peaks at stimulation tests, and severely reduced IGF1 concentrations (−3.5 and −4.0 SDS). Genetic analysis of theGH1gene showed a heterozygous P59S mutation at position involved in binding to GH receptor (GHR).

Results

Isoelectric focusing analysis of secreted GH in patient serum revealed the presence of higher GH-P59S peak compared with that of wt-GH. Furthermore, computational simulation of GH-P59S binding to GHR suggested problems in correct binding of the mutant to the GHR.In vitroGHR binding studies revealed reduced binding affinity of GH-P59S for GHR (IC50, 30 ng/ml) when compared with the wt-GH (IC50, 11.8 ng/ml) while a significantly decreased ability of the mutant to activate the Jak2/Stat5 signaling pathway was observed at physiological concentrations of 25–100 ng/ml.

Conclusions

The clinical and biochemical data of our patients support the diagnosis of partial bioinactive GH syndrome. The higher amount of GH-P59S secreted in their circulation combined with its impact on the wt-GH function on GHR binding and signaling may alter GHR responsiveness to wt-GH and could ultimately explain severe short stature found in our patients.
Prospective evaluation of thyroid imaging reporting and data system on 4550 nodules with and without elastography
Authors: Russ Gilles , Royer Bénédicte , Bigorgne Claude , Rouxel Agnès , Bienvenu-Perrard Marie , Leenhardt Laurence
Published: February 2013

Objective

To evaluate prospectively the diagnostic accuracy of the thyroid imaging reporting and data system (TI-RADS) and its interobserver agreement and to estimate the reduction of indications of fine-needle aspiration biopsies (FNABs).

Design

A prospective comparative study was designed.

Methods

In 2 years, 4550 nodules in 3543 patients were prospectively scored using a flowchart and a six-point scale and then submitted to US-FNAB. Results were read according to the Bethesda system. Histopathological results were available for 263 cases after surgery. Sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value (NPV) and positive predictive value, and accuracy were calculated for the gray-scale score, elastography, and a combination of both methods. Interobserver agreement was calculated using the kappa statistic. The reduction in the number of FNABs was estimated.

Results

When compared with cytopathological results, sensitivity, specificity, NPV, and accuracy were 95.7, 61, 99.7, and 62% for the TI-RADS gray-scale score; 74.2, 91.1, 98, and 90% for elastography; and 98.5, 44.7, 99.8, and 48.3% for a combination of both methods respectively. When compared with histopathological results, the sensitivity of the gray-scale score, elastography, and a combination of both methods were 93.2, 41.9, and 96.7% respectively. Interobserver agreement for the six-point scale and the recommendation for biopsy were substantial (κ value=0.72 and 0.76 respectively). The reduction in the number of FNABs was estimated to be 33.8%.

Conclusion

The TI-RADS score has high sensitivity and NPV for the diagnosis of thyroid carcinoma. A hard nodule should always be considered as suspicious for malignancy but elastography cannot be used alone. Combination of elastography with gray-scale can be used to improve sensitivity or specificity. Interobserver agreement and decrease in unnecessary biopsies are significant.
Five novel mutations in the SCNN1A gene causing autosomal recessive pseudohypoaldosteronism type 1
Authors: Welzel Maik , Akin Leyla , Büscher Anja , Güran Tülay , P Hauffa Berthold , Högler Wolfgang , Leonards Julia , Karges Beate , Kentrup Heiner , Kirel Birgul , Senses Emine Esin Yalinbas , Tekin Neslihan , Holterhus Paul-Martin , Riepe Felix G
Published: February 2013

Background

Pseudohypoaldosteronism type 1 (PHA1) is a monogenic disease caused by mutations in the genes encoding the human mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) or the α (SCNN1A), β (SCNN1B) or γ (SCNN1G) subunit of the epithelial Na+ channel (ENaC). While autosomal dominant mutation of the MR cause renal PHA1, autosomal recessive mutations of the ENaC lead to systemic PHA1. In the latter, affected children suffer from neonatal onset of multi-organ salt loss and often exhibit cystic fibrosis-like pulmonary symptoms.

Objective

We searched for underlying mutations in seven unrelated children with systemic PHA1, all offsprings of healthy consanguineous parents.

Methods and results

Amplification of the SCNN1A gene and sequencing of all 13 coding exons unraveled mutations in all of our patients. We found five novel homozygous mutations (c.587_588insC in two patients, c.1342_1343insTACA, c.742delG, c.189C>A, c.1361-2A>G) and one known mutation (c.1474C>T) leading to truncation of the αENaC protein. All parents were asymptomatic heterozygous carriers of the respective mutations, confirming the autosomal recessive mode of inheritance. Five out of seven patients exhibited pulmonary symptoms in the neonatal period.

Conclusion

The α subunit is essential for ENaC function and mutations truncating the pore-forming part of the protein leading to systemic PHA1. Based on current knowledge, the pulmonary phenotype cannot be satisfactorily predicted.
Expressions of miRNAs in papillary thyroid carcinoma and their associations with the BRAFV600E mutation
Authors: Huang Yongbo , Liao Denghui , Pan Lingxiao , Ye Runyi , Li Xiaoxi , Wang Shenming , Ye Caisheng , Chen Liuhua
Published: February 2013

Objective

Alterations in microRNA (miRNA) expression have been described in thyroid tumors, suggesting a role for miRNAs in thyroid carcinogenesis. BRAFV600E is the most frequently identified genetic alteration in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). We investigated the link between BRAFV600E status and the expression of miRNAs in PTC and analyzed the associations of these factors with clinicopathological characteristics.

Design and methods

Prospective study of patients who underwent thyroid surgery between October 8, 2008 and November 1, 2010. BRAFV600E status was determined by mutant allele-specific amplification PCR and direct sequencing of exon 15 of the BRAF gene in 69 PTC tissues and 69 respective paracancerous normal thyroid tissues. Initially, miRNA expression was analyzed in 12 PTC tissues and three associated paracancerous tissues using a miRNA microarray. miRNAs differentially expressed between BRAFV600E-positive and -negative PTC tissues were then validated by real-time quantitative PCR on 69 PTC tissues and 69 paracancerous tissues. We also explored the associations between BRAFV600E status or differential miRNA expression and clinicopathological characteristics.

Results

The mutation rate of BRAFV600E in PTC was 47.8%. Twelve miRNAs were upregulated and six were downregulated in PTC tissues, among which miR-15a, 15a*, 34a*, 34b*, 551b, 873, 876-3p, and 1274a were first identified. miR-21* and 203 were significantly dysregulated (P<0.05) in PTC tissues with BRAFV600E. Additionally, there were significant associations (P<0.05) between BRAFV600E and a higher tumor–node–metastasis staging (III/IV), and between miR-21* over-expression and lymph node metastasis.

Conclusions

We identified two miRNAs that are differentially expressed in PTC tissues with BRAFV600E and revealed their associations with clinicopathological features. These findings may lead to the development of a potential diagnostic biomarker or prognostic indicator of PTC.
High penetrance of pheochromocytoma in multiple endocrine neoplasia 2 caused by germ line RET codon 634 mutation in Japanese patients
Authors: Imai Tsuneo , Uchino Shinya , Okamoto Takahiro , Suzuki Shinichi , Kosugi Shinji , Kikumori Toyone , Sakurai Akihiro , _ _
Published: February 2013

Objective

The precise penetrance of pheochromocytoma (PHEO) in multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2) has not been reported in a large cohort. In this study, we aimed to clarify the codon-specific penetrance of PHEO in MEN2.

Design

We established a study group designated the ‘MEN Consortium of Japan’ in 2008 and asked physicians and surgeons to provide clinical and genetic information on patients they had treated up to 2011.

Methods

Data were collected on patients identified as carriers of the RET mutation or diagnosed with medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) and/or PHEO with family history from 52 institutions all over Japan.

Results

Of 493 registered MEN2 patients, RET mutation data were available for 390. Of these, 144developed PHEOs, while 246 did not. The penetrance of PHEO was 25% by age 30 years, 52% by age 50 years, and 88% by age 77 years in RET mutation carriers with a codon 634 mutation. All patients with a codon 918 mutation (MEN2B) developed PHEO by age 56 years. Less than 32%penetrance of PHEO was seen in patients with mutations at codons other than 634 and 918.

Conclusions

Most patients with a codon 634 mutation develop PHEOs as well as MTC during their lifetime.
Response to GH treatment in adult GH deficiency is predicted by gender, age, and IGF1 SDS but not by stimulated GH-peak
Authors: Feldt-Rasmussen Ulla , Brabant Georg , Maiter Dominique , Jonsson Björn , Toogood Andy , Koltowska-Haggstrom Maria , Rasmussen Aase Krogh , Buchfelder Michael , Saller Bernhard , Biller Beverly M K
Published: February 2013

Objective

We studied whether the severity of GH deficiency (GHD) defined as i) GH-peak on stimulation tests (insulin tolerance test (ITT), arginine, and glucagon), ii) number of additional pituitary deficits, or iii) baseline IGF1 SDS could impact the response to GH treatment. We further explored whether iv) IGF1 SDS after 24 months of GH replacement or v) ΔIGF1 SDS from baseline to 24 months was related to the phenotypic response to GH treatment.

Design, patients, and measurements

The patient cohort (n=1752; 50% women) was obtained from KIMS (Pfizer International Metabolic Database). The patients were divided into three groups of approximately equal size (tertiles) according to the stimulated GH-peak values and baseline IGF1 SDS and were studied at baseline, 12, and 24 months of GH therapy.

Results

Lower baseline IGF1 SDS predicted better response in weight, BMI, total cholesterol, and triglycerides, while IGF1 SDS after 24 months was associated with reduction in waist/hip ratio, total cholesterol, and improved quality of life (QoL). Age-correlated negatively with the response in body weight, BMI, waist, IGF1 SDS, and total and LDL-cholesterol.

Response in weight and BMI was greater in men than in women, whereas women showed greater improvement in QoL than men. Patients with more severe GHD as assessed by lower GH-peaks and more pituitary hormone deficiencies had a greater increase in IGF1 SDS. The increase in IGF1 SDS was associated with a reduction in waist/hip ratio and an increase in weight, BMI, and triglycerides. There was no correlation with other lipids, blood pressure, or glucose.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that baseline and 24 months, IGF1 and its degree of increase during GH replacement were more important than stimulated peak GH to predict the phenotypic response.
Role of site-specific DNA demethylation in TNFα-induced MMP9 expression in keratinocytes
Authors: Ling Li , Ren Meng , Yang Chuan , Lao Guojuan , Chen Lihong , Luo Hengcong , Feng Zhimei , Yan Li
Published: February 2013

Inappropriately high expression of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) in the late stage of diabetic foot ulcers suppresses wound healing. The underlying mechanisms are not completely understood. Site-specific demethylation was reported to function in the regulation of genes, causing persistent high expression of target genes. Therefore, this study was designed to determine whether site-specific DNA demethylation was a key regulatory component ofMMP9expression in diabetic wound healing, and to further verify the crucial CpG site(s). Human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT) cells were exposed to tumor necrosis factor a (TNFα), and changes inMMP9expression and DNA methylation status were detected. We found TNFα treatment increased endogenousMMP9expression in HaCaT cells and decreased the DNA methylation percentage at the −36 bp promoter site in a time-dependent manner. Bisulfite sequencing PCR revealed differentially demethylated CpG sites in the human MMP9 promoter region, but only the change at the −36 bp site was statistically significant. Dual-luciferase reporter assays showed that the promoter with only the −36 bp site demethylated had slightly higher transcriptional activity than the promoter with all other sites except the −36 bp site demethylated. Our results demonstrate that site-specific DNA demethylation plays an important role inMMP9expression in TNFα-stimulated keratinocytes. The −36 bp site in theMMP9gene promoter is crucial to this effect, but other CpG sites may exert synergistic effects. Collectively, these data may contribute to the future development of novel therapeutic strategies to treat diabetic foot ulcers and prevent gangrene and amputation.
IGFBP5 mediates high glucose-induced cardiac fibroblast activation
Authors: Song Seung Eun , Kim Yong-Woon , Kim Jong-Yeon , Lee Dong Hyup , Kim Jae-Ryong , Park So-Young
Published: February 2013

This study examined whether IGF-binding protein 5 (IGFBP5) is involved in the high glucose-induced deteriorating effects in cardiac cells. Cardiac fibroblasts and cardiomyocytes were isolated from the hearts of 1- to 3-day-old Sprague Dawley rats. Treatment of fibroblasts with 25 mM glucose increased the number of cells and the mRNA levels of collagen III, matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2), andMMP9. High glucose increased ERK1/2 activity, and the ERK1/2 inhibitor PD98059 suppressed high glucose-mediated fibroblast proliferation and increased collagen III mRNA levels. Whereas high glucose increased both mRNA and protein levels of IGFBP5 in fibroblasts, high glucose did not affect IGFBP5 protein levels in cardiomyocytes. The high glucose-induced increase in IGFBP5 protein levels was inhibited by PD98059 in fibroblasts. While recombinant IGFBP5 increased ERK phosphorylation, cell proliferation, and the mRNA levels of collagen III,MMP2, andMMP9in fibroblasts, IGFBP5 increased c-Jun N-terminal kinase phosphorylation and induced apoptosis in cardiomyocytes. The knockdown of IGFBP5 inhibited high glucose-induced cell proliferation and collagen III mRNA levels in fibroblasts. Although high glucose increased IGF1 levels, IGF1 did not increase IGFBP5 levels in fibroblasts. The hearts of Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima Fatty rats and the cardiac fibroblasts of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats showed increased IGFBP5 expression. These results suggest that IGFBP5 mediates high glucose-induced profibrotic effects in cardiac fibroblasts.
The sorting of proglucagon to secretory granules is mediated by carboxypeptidase E and intrinsic sorting signals
Authors: McGirr Rebecca , Guizzetti Leonardo , Dhanvantari Savita
Published: February 2013

Proglucagon is expressed in pancreatic alpha cells, intestinal L cells and brainstem neurons. Tissue-specific processing of proglucagon yields the peptide hormones glucagon in the alpha cell and glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 and GLP-2 in L cells. Both glucagon and GLP-1 are secreted in response to nutritional status and are critical for regulating glycaemia. The sorting of proglucagon to the dense-core secretory granules of the regulated secretory pathway is essential for the appropriate secretion of glucagon and GLP-1. We examined the roles of carboxypeptidase E (CPE), a prohormone sorting receptor, the processing enzymes PC1/3 and PC2 and putative intrinsic sorting signals in proglucagon sorting. In Neuro 2a cells that lacked CPE, PC1/3 and PC2, proglucagon co-localised with the Golgi marker p115 as determined by quantitative immunofluorescence microscopy. Expression of CPE, but not of PC1/3 or PC2, enhanced proglucagon sorting to granules. siRNA-mediated knockdown ofCPEdisrupted regulated secretion of glucagon from pancreatic-derived alphaTC1–6 cells, but not of GLP-1 from intestinal cell-derived GLUTag cells. Mutation of the PC cleavage site K70R71, the dibasic R17R18 site within glucagon or the alpha-helix of glucagon, all significantly affected the sub-cellular localisation of proglucagon. Protein modelling revealed that alpha helices corresponding to glucagon, GLP-1 and GLP-2, are arranged within a disordered structure, suggesting some flexibility in the sorting mechanism. We conclude that there are multiple mechanisms for sorting proglucagon to the regulated secretory pathway, including a role for CPE in pancreatic alpha cells, initial cleavage at K70R71 and multiple sorting signals.
Melanocortin receptor accessory proteins in adrenal gland physiology and beyond
Authors: Novoselova T V , Jackson D , Campbell D C , Clark A J L , Chan L F
Published: February 2013

The melanocortin receptor (MCR) family consists of five G-protein-coupled receptors (MC1R–MC5R) with diverse physiological roles. MC1R controls pigmentation, MC2R is a critical component of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, MC3R and MC4R have a vital role in energy homeostasis and MC5R is involved in exocrine function. The melanocortin receptor accessory protein (MRAP) and its paralogue MRAP2 are small single-pass transmembrane proteins that have been shown to regulate MCR expression and function. In the adrenal gland, MRAP is an essential accessory factor for the functional expression of the MC2R/ACTH receptor. The importance of MRAP in adrenal gland physiology is demonstrated by the clinical condition familial glucocorticoid deficiency, where inactivating MRAP mutations account for ∼20% of cases. MRAP is highly expressed in both the zona fasciculata and the undifferentiated zone. Expression in the undifferentiated zone suggests that MRAP could also be important in adrenal cell differentiation and/or maintenance. In contrast, the role of adrenal MRAP2, which is highly expressed in the foetal gland, is unclear. The expression of MRAPs outside the adrenal gland is suggestive of a wider physiological purpose, beyond MC2R-mediated adrenal steroidogenesis.In vitro, MRAPs have been shown to reduce surface expression and signalling of all the other MCRs (MC1,3,4,5R). MRAP2 is predominantly expressed in the hypothalamus, a site that also expresses a high level of MC3R and MC4R. This raises the intriguing possibility of a CNS role for the MRAPs.
Calcium influx in mammalian eggs
Authors: Wang Chunmin , Machaty Zoltan
Published: February 2013

Calcium (Ca2+) signals are involved in the regulation of oocyte maturation and play a critical role during fertilization. In the egg, Ca2+is stored in the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum and a signal is generated when the stored Ca2+is released through specialized channels in the membrane of the endoplasmic reticulum to elevate the free Ca2+concentration in the cytoplasm. Extracellular Ca2+is also important, indicated by the fact that the mobilization of luminal Ca2+is typically followed by Ca2+entry across the plasma membrane. The transmembrane Ca2+flux replenishes the endoplasmic reticulum, and thus, it is essential to sustain prolonged Ca2+signals. It also seems to be responsible for the stimulation of important signaling cascades required for complete egg activation. Characterization of the pathway that mediates Ca2+entry implies that its major components include STIM1, a protein that senses the filling status of the stores, and ORAI1, a channel protein located in the plasma membrane. Defining the mechanism and functions of Ca2+entry will not only lead to a better understanding of egg physiology but may also help improving the efficiency of a number of assisted reproductive technologies.
Distinguishing Lyme From Septic Knee Monoarthritis in Lyme Disease–Endemic Areas
Authors: Deanehan Julia K. , Kimia Amir A. , Tan Tanny Sharman P. , Milewski Matthew D. , Talusan Paul G. , Smith Brian G. , Nigrovic Lise E.
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE:

Because Lyme and septic arthritis may present similarly, we sought to identify children with knee monoarthritis at low risk for septic arthritis who may not require arthrocentesis.

METHODS:

We performed a retrospective study of children with knee monoarthritis presenting to 1 of 2 pediatric centers, both located in Lyme disease–endemic areas. Septic arthritis was defined by a positive result on synovial fluid culture or synovial fluid pleocytosis with a positive blood culture result. Lyme arthritis was defined as a positive Lyme serologic result or physician-documented erythema migrans rash. All other children were considered to have other inflammatory arthritis. A clinical prediction model was derived by using recursive partitioning to identify children at low risk for septic arthritis, and the model was then externally validated.

RESULTS:

We identified 673 patients with knee monoarthritis; 19 (3%) had septic arthritis, 341 (51%) had Lyme arthritis, and 313 (46%) had other inflammatory arthritis. The following predictors of knee septic arthritis were identified: peripheral blood absolute neutrophil count ≥10 × 103 cells per mm3 and an erythrocyte sedimentation rate ≥40 mm/hour. In the validation population, no child with a absolute neutrophil count <10 × 103 cells per mm3 and an erythrocyte sedimentation rate <40 mm/hour had septic arthritis (sensitivity: 6 of 6 [100%], 95% confidence interval [CI]: 54–100; specificity: 87 of 160 [54%], 95% CI: 46–62). Overall, none of the 19 children with septic arthritis were classified as low risk (10%, 95% CI: 0–17).

CONCLUSIONS:

Laboratory criteria can be used to identify children with knee monoarthritis at low risk for septic arthritis who may not require diagnostic arthrocentesis.
Anatomo-radiographic description of the axial skeleton of the crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous)
Authors: Barisson Janaína D. , Louro Cristiane H. , Dias Sheila J.T. , Jojima Flávio S. , Ferreira Murilo S. , Oliveira Fabrício S.
Published: February 2013

The aim of this study was to describe the axial skeleton of a wild Brazilian carnivorous, the crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous). Five specimens of crab-eating fox were previously unfrozen for radiographic exams and their bones went through dissection and chemical maceration. This animal presents seven cervical vertebrae, and from the third on, they become shorter and wider than the other ones e the spinous process was makeable from the fifth cervical vertebrae on. There are thirteen thoracic vertebrae and the spinous process of the lumbar vertebrae, which are seven, decreases from the fifth on. The sacrum is formed by two vertebrae and there are twenty or twenty one caudal vertebrae. It can be concluded that the crab-eating fox axial skeleton is similar to that of the domestic dog.
Aspectos hematológicos de caprinos (Capra hircus) da raça Canindé criados no Rio Grande do Norte
Authors: Oliveira Maria G.C. , Nunes Talyta L. , Paiva Ariana L.C. , Bezerra Thayse C.G. , Fernandes Naftali S. , Vale André M. , Barrêto Júnior Raimundo A. , Paula Valéria V.
Published: February 2013

Objetivou-se com este trabalho estudar o perfil hematológico de caprinos (Capra hircus) da raça Canindé, criados no Estado do Rio Grande do Norte, como também a busca de valores de referência que se adequem à nossa região. Foram coletadas amostras sanguíneas de 58 animais clinicamente sadios, distribuídos em 4 grupos (machos acima de 5 meses, fêmeas gestantes, fêmeas não gestantes e filhotes até 4 meses de idade). A partir de única amostra de sangue de cada animal foram realizados o eritrograma (contagem de hemácias, hematócrito, hemoglobina, volume corpuscular médio e concentração de hemoglobina corpuscular média) e o leucograma (contagem total e diferencial de leucócitos). Os dados obtidos foram avaliados por meio do teste de Tukey para variáveis paramétricas e Kruskal-Wallis seguido pelo teste de Dunn para não paramétricos em nível de significância de (p<0.05). Os resultados apontam para existência de maiores quantidades de He nos machos adultos e fêmeas não gestantes, diferente do que ocorre com o VCM; já com relação ao leucograma temos que os eosinófilos mostram-se mais elevados nas fêmeas adultas e os monócitos se elevam quando na presença da gestação. Os valores deste trabalho podem servir de referência para raça Canindé, tornando possível futuras interpretações para os parâmetros verificados, além de subsidiar novos estudos em animais hígidos ou doentes. Mostra a necessidade de pesquisas que evidenciem as condições semiáridas de manejo e alimentação, bem como a avaliação dos fatores de variação, sobre constituintes do sangue, que levem em conta o sexo, a idade e estado fisiológico dos animais.
Parâmetros hemogasométricos e equilíbrio ácido-básico de cabritos nascidos de partos normais
Authors: Camargo Diogo G. , Yanaka Rodrigo , Bovino Fernanda , Bregadioli Thales , Mendes Luiz C.N. , Peiró Juliana R. , Feitosa Francisco L.F.
Published: February 2013

A adaptação à vida extra-uterina é período crítico para o recém-nascido. Inúmeras alterações ocorrem em diferentes sistemas e órgãos, incluindo a função respiratória e o equilíbrio ácido-básico. O presente trabalho objetivou constatar a ocorrência de acidose em cabritos recém-nascidos e obter parâmetros gasométricos e ácido-básicos dos mesmos, até as 24 horas de vida. Para tanto, foram utilizados 33 cabritos, sem distinção de sexo. Amostras sanguíneas foram colhidas por venopunção jugular, imediatamente após o nascimento, aos cinco, dez e 15 minutos, e às 24 horas de vida, para determinação do pH, pressão parcial de oxigênio (pO2), pressão parcial de dióxido de carbono (pCO2), dióxido de carbono total (TCO2), concentração de bicarbonato (HCO3), excesso de bases (BE) e a saturação de oxigênio (sO2) utilizando-se analisador portátil de gases sanguíneos. Observaram-se diferenças significativas entre os momentos nos valores gasométricos dos cabritos em todas as variáveis estudadas. Os cabritos recém-nascidos apresentaram acidose respiratória no período pós-parto imediato, normalizando-se às 24 horas de vida.
Identificação do nicho de progenitores mesenquimais no fígado de embriões e fetos caninos: uma fonte de células-tronco para terapia celular
Authors: Martins Daniele S. , Wenceslau Cristiane V. , Vieira Eduardo , Franciolli André Luis R. , Ambrósio Carlos E. , Carvalho Ana F. , Miglino Maria A.
Published: February 2013

As células-tronco (CT) derivadas dos tecidos fetais (TF) foram as mais recentes descobertas entre as CT, e ultimamente tem demonstrado amplo potencial terapêutico, dentre os TF o fígado fetal (FF) apresenta grande potencial terapêutico. Este órgão durante o período fetal em mamíferos é um nicho hematopoético transitório, sendo o principal órgão responsável pela hematopoese no feto, além de contribuir com a formação do nicho definitivo na medula óssea adulta, portanto pode ser considerado um nicho de células-tronco mesenquimais (CTM) e progenitores. No entanto, pouco se sabe sobre a localização destas células no FF, desta forma o presente estudo visa identificar o nicho de CTM e progenitores em FF de cães, a fim de contribuir com as técnicas de isolamento e extração celular. Em conjunto foi realizada a verificação da expressão do fator de transcrição Oct-3/4 e da proteína delta polimerase do DNA (PCNA). Para a análise foram utilizados cinco embriões e 11 fetos caninos com idades gestacionais variando de 25-60 dias. Os resultados elucidaram a partir de 25 dias de gestação o FF apresentou-se volumoso e composto por todas as estruturas típicas, dentre elas a tríade portal, ductos biliares e ramos das artérias hepáticas. Com 30 dias de gestação foram identificados os primeiros sitos de progenitores mesenquimais (PM) enquanto que aos 60 dias os nichos estavam completamente formados com localização semelhante ao fígado adulto (FA). No entanto, células imunopositivas para Oct-3/4 não foram identificadas; sendo assim, destacamos que o FF é uma fonte de PM, apresentando-se como uma alternativa para a utilização terapêutica, bem como para os estudos da biologia do desenvolvimento das CTM e progenitores.
Efeito da idade e sexo sobre a concentração sérica de eritropoietina em equinos da raça Árabe
Authors: Fonteque Joandes Henrique , Kohayagawa Aguemi , Saito Mere Erika , Teixeira Andrey Borges , Watanabe Marcos Jun , Thomassian Armen
Published: February 2013

A EPO é um fator de crescimento glicoprotéico sintetizado pelas células adjacentes aos túbulos proximais renais regulada via mecanismo de "feed back" envolvendo a tensão de oxigênio tissular. Na baixa tensão de oxigênio arterial, a produção de EPO aumenta causando uma maior produção de eritrócitos na medula óssea. Devido ao pouco conhecimento da concentração de EPO sérica em equinos e a ausência de trabalhos sobre o efeito da idade e sexo sobre a sua concentração o trabalho teve como objetivo comparar a concentração sérica de eritropoietina em equinos da raça Árabe de sexos e idades diferentes. Foram utilizados 31 equinos da raça Árabe, com idades de seis a 12 meses (jovens) e acima de 24 meses (adultos), sendo 13 machos (seis jovens e sete adultos) e 18 fêmeas (oito jovens e 10 adultas), clinicamente sadios. As amostras de sangue foram colhidas por venipunção jugular e o soro armazenado até o momento do processamento. A concentração sérica de eritropoetina foi determinada pelo método de radioimunoensaio (RIA) utilizando kit comercial (EPO Trac TM125I RIA, Diagnostic Systems Laboratories, Webster, Texas, USA). Para análise estatística dos dados utilizou-se o Teste t de Student ao nível de 5% de significância (P<0,05). Não foram observadas diferenças significativas (P<0,05) quando se compararam os animais divididos entre sexos e as idades de seis a 12 meses (jovens) e acima de 24 meses (adultos). Conclui-se que a concentração de eritropoietina em equinos da raça Árabe independe do sexo e idade, e pode ser utilizada como valores de referência, porém ressalta-se a necessidade da obtenção de valores de referência para cada laboratório.
Monitoramento de parâmetros laboratoriais em gatos sem raça definida durante o período neonatal
Authors: Lourenço Maria Lucia G. , Takahira Regina K. , Machado Luiz Henrique A. , Moutinho Flávio Q. , Ferreira Helena , Balieiro Júlio César C. , Machado Luciana P. , Fonteque Joandes H.
Published: February 2013

O objetivo do presente estudo foi à monitoração dos parâmetros laboratoriais como hemograma, enzimas hepáticas alanina aminotransferase (ALT) e gama-glutamiltransferase (GGT), glicemia e proteinograma sérico, e avaliar o efeito da idade em gatos sem raça definida durante a fase neonatal. Vinte gatos machos e fêmeas foram utilizados a partir do terceiro dia de vida até o 38º dia de idade. As amostras de sangue foram colhidas semanalmente e as análises laboratoriais (hemograma, enzimas hepáticas, glicemia e proteinograma sérico) realizadas no 3º, 10º, 17º, 24º, 31º e 38º dia de idade. Os resultados exibiram efeito significativo da idade sobre a contagem total de eritrócitos, concentração de hemoglobina, volume globular, volume corpuscular médio, concentração de hemoglobina corpuscular média, leucócitos totais, neutrófilos, eosinófilos e basófilos. Nenhum efeito foi observado em células como linfócitos, monócitos ou na concentração sérica de glicose. A análise das modificações ocorridas nos parâmetros laboratoriais durante a fase neonatal reflete o desenvolvimento fisiológico do filhote e contribui para o conhecimento do processo adaptativo em gatos neonatos durante o primeiro mês de vida, sendo útil para a avaliação clínica, diagnóstico e tratamento das doenças neonatais.
Ultrastructure of the epithelium lining of cauda epididymidis in mongrel dogs
Authors: Schimming Bruno C. , Pinheiro Patrícia F.F. , Vicentini Carlos A. , Domeniconi Raquel F.
Published: February 2013

The epithelium lining of cauda epididymidis in mongrel dogs was examined by transmission electron microscopy. The epididymal epithelium is pseudostratified with stereocilia and is composed predominantly of principal and clear cells. Therefore, exist basal and apical cells. The principal and clear cells show features suggesting that they may be preferentially involved in absorptive and secretive functions. These results are compared with previously published data on the cauda epididymidis of other mammalian species, in order to understand the significance of the epididymis in sperm maturation.
Efeito do sítio de venopunção nos parâmetros hematológicos em tigre-d'água-americano, Trachemys scripta elegans
Authors: Medeiros Nina C. , Locatelli-Dittrich Rosangela , Schmidt Elizabeth M.S. , Alvares Alessandra A.A. , Patrício Lia L. , Lange Rogério R. , Souza Rodrigo A.M. de
Published: February 2013

O objetivo do presente estudo foi realizar a comparação entre dois sítios de coleta sanguínea em 24 exemplares de tigre-d'água-americano (Trachemys scripta elegans) oriundos de um criadouro comercial, localizado no município de Antonina, litoral do Paraná, Brasil. Os animais foram submetidos a contenção física e as venopunções foram realizadas no seio supraocciptal e na veia coccígea dorsal. As amostras heparinizadas foram identificadas e refrigeradas para posterior análise laboratorial. A contagem total de eritrócitos e leucócitos foi realizada pela técnica de hemocitometria. O hematócrito (Ht) e a hemoglobina (Hb) foram determinados pelo método de microhematócrito e cianometahemoglobina, respectivamente. A proteína plasmática total (PPT) foi determinada por refratometria e a contagem diferencial de leucócitos foi realizada através da técnica de Shilling. Houve diferença significativa no número de leucócitos e no valor da proteína plasmática total, e em ambos os casos os valores encontrados nas amostras provenientes da veia coccígea dorsal foram inferiores. A diferença encontrada no número de leucócitos provavelmente foi devido à contaminação por linfa, que também justifica o menor valor na concentração da proteína plasmática total. Conclui-se que é mais indicada a venopunção no seio supraocciptal quando comparado a veia coccígea dorsal.
Aspectos morfométricos do timo em gatos domésticos (Felis domesticus)
Authors: Barroso Camila E. , Agreste Fernanda R. , Silva Luana C.S. , Bombonato Pedro P. , Cogliati Bruno
Published: February 2013

O timo é um órgão linfático primário que desenvolve sua atividade em organismos jovens. Apesar de sua função ser responsável por mecanismos fundamentais na aquisição das defesas e conseqüentes respostas orgânicas, ela ainda não está totalmente esclarecida, nem tampouco as bases morfológicas que respondem por tais funções, como o processo de desenvolvimento e involução do órgão. Objetivou-se analisar e caracterizar os aspectos morfológicos do timo, tais como seu tamanho e volume, e aspectos histológicos do timo em gatos, correlacionando o sexo e o desenvolvimento etário. Doze timos provenientes de fetos de gatos domésticos (Felis domesticus) sem raça definida (SRD), machos e fêmeas, separados em três grupos etários. O timo apresentou-se com uma coloração rosa-pálida e com duas porções, a torácica e a cervical, sendo que cada uma delas possuía um lobo direito e um lobo esquerdo em sua maioria. A porção torácica localizava-se em região de mediastino cranial, entre os pulmões e à base do coração. E a porção cervical estendia-se além das costelas em sentido cranial, estando localizada ventralmente à traqueia. A estrutura celular do timo demonstrou-se organizada com a presença de agregados concêntricos, os chamados corpúsculos tímicos, formados por células epiteliais, sustentada por uma cápsula de tecido conjuntivo de onde partiam septos que ao penetrar no órgão dividia-o em lóbulos. Ocorreram variações significativas quanto à lobação e as dimensões do timo entre indivíduos da mesma faixa etária, e entre sexos diferentes. Os valores relativos ao comprimento, espessura e largura, de maneira geral, apresentaram aumento, em conformidade ao desenvolvimento dos animais, mas com diferenças entre os sexos.
Avaliação eletrocardiográfica de equinos após exercício de polo (baixo handicap)
Authors: Bello Camila A.O. , Dumont Cinthia B.S. , Souza Thaís C. , Palma Joana M. , Lima Eduardo M.M. , Godoy Roberta F. , P. Neto Glaucia B. , Meryonne Moreira
Published: February 2013

A eletrocardiografia pode ser usada para quantificar o treinamento e o desempenho atlético. Pode ainda avaliar a função cardíaca sob efeito do exercício identificando a influência de anomalias cardíacas, assim como os efeitos deletérios do esforço frente à função cardíaca. Considerando a complexidade do esforço físico inerente a cavalos em competições de polo, juntamente com a carência de relatos na literatura sobre a demanda cardíaca resultante. O objetivo deste estudo foi o de identificar e avaliar eletrocardiograficamente os efeitos cardíacos do exercício de polo em equinos de forma a subsidiar dados para a compreensão da demanda fisiológica cardíaca desta modalidade. Foram avaliados 27 equinos praticante de polo em repouso e entre cinco e dez minutos após o exercício. Os resultados obtidos demonstraram que as alterações observadas na duração e amplitude da onda P e duração do intervalo PR e QT foram consideradas fisiológicas em resposta ao aumento da frequência cardíaca. A onda P difásica encontrada em repouso representou hipertrofia atrial e quando bífida representou diferentes pontos de ativação do nó sinoatrial. Como esperado o complexo QRS não sofreu alterações consideráveis entre os dois momentos. O supradesnível do segmento ST e as variações da onda T observadas após o exercício poderiam representar efeito adverso ao miocárdio, entretanto estudos analisando múltiplos fatores são necessários para confirmar esta associação e definir sua real causa. O aumento do QTc sugeriu fadiga miocárdica leve representando alta demanda cardíaca para esta modalidade. O escore cardíaco demonstrou que estes animais estavam dentro do padrão de adaptação cardíaca para um cavalo atleta. A rápida recuperação cardíaca demonstrou bom condicionamento atlético. O marca-passo atrial mutável foi um achado normal encontrado nos equinos de polo. Foi observada baixa incidência de alterações no ritmo cardíaco.
Gross morphology of rhea oropharyngeal cavity
Authors: Rodrigues Marcio N. , Tivane Catarina N. , Carvalho Rafael C. , Oliveira Gleidson B. , Silva Roberto S.B. , Ambrosio Carlos E. , Oliveira Moacir F. , Miglino Maria A.
Published: February 2013

The rhea (Rhea americana americana) is an american bird belonging to Ratite's family. Studies related to its morphology are still scarce. This study aims to describe the macroscopic structures of the oropharyngeal cavity. Five heads (2 to 6 months old) formalin preserved were anatomically dissected to expose the oropharynx. The oropharynx of the rhea was "bell-shaped" composed by the maxillary and mandibular rhamphotheca. The roof and floor presented two distinct regions different in colour of the mucosa. The rostral region was pale pink contrasting to grey coloured caudal region. The median longitudinal ridge extended rostrally from the apex of the choana to the tip of the beak in the roof and it is clearly more prominent and rigid than the homolog in the floor that appeared thin and stretched merely along the rostral portion of the regio interramalis. The floor was formed by the interramal region, (regio interramalis) tongue and laryngeal mound containing glove-shaped glottis. This study confirmed the basic morphology of the oropharinx of the rhea. However, important morphological information not previously described is highlighted and contradictory information present in the literature is clarified.