bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Activation and Induction of NUR77/NURR1 in Corticotrophs by CRH/cAMP: Involvement of Calcium, Protein Kinase A, and MAPK Pathways
Authors: Kovalovsky Damián , Refojo Damián , Liberman Ana Clara , Hochbaum Daniel , Pereda Marcelo Paez , Coso Omar A. , Stalla Günter K. , Holsboer Florian , Arzt Eduardo
Published: January 2014

Nur factors are critical for proopiomelanocortin (POMC) induction by CRH in corticotrophs, but the pathways linking CRH to Nur are unknown. In this study we show that in AtT-20 corticotrophs CRH and cAMP induce Nur77 and Nurr1 expression and transcription at the NurRE site by protein kinase A (PKA) and calcium-dependent and -independent mechanisms. Calcium pathways depend on calmodulin kinase II (CAMKII) activity, and calcium-independent pathways are accounted for in part by MAPK activation (Rap1/B-Raf/MAPK-ERK kinase/ERK1/2), demonstrated by the use of molecular and pharmacological tools. AtT-20 corticotrophs express B-Raf, as do other cells in which cAMP stimulates MAPK. CRH/cAMP stimulated ERK2 activity and increased transcriptional activity of a Gal4-Elk1 protein, which was blocked by overexpression of dominant negative mutants and kinase inhibitors and stimulated by expression of B-Raf. The MAPK kinase inhibitors did not affect Nur77 and Nurr1 mRNA induction but blocked CRH or cAMP-stimulated Nur transcriptional activity. Moreover, MAPK stimulated phosphorylation and transactivation of Nur77. The functional impact of these pathways was confirmed at the POMC promoter. In conclusion, in AtT-20 corticotrophs the CRH/cAMP signaling that leads to Nur77/Nurr1 mRNA induction and transcriptional activation, and thus POMC expression, is dependent on protein kinase A and involves calcium/calmodulin kinase II (Nur induction/activation) and MAPK calcium-dependent and -independent (Nur phosphorylation-activation) pathways.
Thyroid Hormone Receptor β (THRB) Is a Major Target Gene for Micro-RNAs Deregulated in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma (PTC)
Authors: Jazdzewski Krystian , Boguslawska Joanna , Jendrzejewski Jaroslaw , Liyanarachchi Sandya , Pachucki Janusz , Wardyn Kazimierz A. , Nauman Alicja , de la Chapelle Albert
Published: January 2014

Context:

Loss of the thyroid hormone receptor is common in tumors. In mouse models, a truncated THRB gene leads to thyroid cancer. Previously, we observed up-regulation of the expression of eight micro-RNAs (miR) in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) tumors.

Objective:

Our objective was to determine whether THRB might be inhibited by miR up-regulated in PTC.

Design:

The potential binding of miR to the 3′-untranslated region of THRB was analyzed in silico. Direct inhibition by miR binding to the cloned 3′-untranslated region of THRB was evaluated using luciferase assays. Inhibition of endogenous THRB and its target genes (DIO1 and APP) was examined in cell lines transfected by pre-miR. The impact on thyroid hormone response elements (TRE) was evaluated in promoter assays. Correlations between the expression of THRB and miR was evaluated in 13 PTC tumor/normal tissue pairs.

Results:

THRB contains binding sites for the top seven miR up-regulated in PTC (P = 0.0000002). Direct interaction with THRB was shown for miR-21 and miR-146a. We observed lower levels of THRB transcripts in cell lines transfected with miR-21, −146a, and −221 (down-regulation of 37–48%; P < 0.0001), but not with miR-181a. THRB protein was suppressed down to 10–28% by each of four miR. Concomitant expression of DIO1 and APP was affected (down-regulation of 32–66%, P < 0.0034 and up-regulation of 48–57%, P < 0.0002, respectively). All four miR affected TRE activity in promoter assays. Down-regulation of luciferase occurred after transfection with pTRE-TK-Luc construct and each of four miR. The analysis of tumor/normal tissue pairs revealed down-regulation of THRB in 11 of 13 pairs (1.3- to 9.1-fold), and up-regulation of miR-21, −146a, −181a, and −221 in almost all pairs.

Conclusions:

MiR up-regulated in PTC tumors directly inhibit the expression of THRB, an important tumor suppressor gene.
Action of Metformin on the Insulin-Signaling Pathway and on Glucose Transport in Human Granulosa Cells
Authors: Rice Suman , Pellatt Laura , Bryan Stacey , Whitehead Saffron Ann , Mason Helen Diane
Published: January 2014

Context:

Hyperinsulinemia in polycystic ovary syndrome is widely treated with the insulin sensitizer metformin, which, in addition to its systemic effects, directly affects the ovarian insulin-stimulated steroidogenesis pathway.

Objective:

Our aim was to investigate the interaction of metformin with the other insulin-stimulated ovarian pathway, namely that leading to glucose uptake.

Design:

Human granulosa-luteal cells were cultured with metformin (10−7m), insulin (10 ng/ml) or metformin and insulin (Met + Ins) combined. Insulin receptor (IR) involvement was assessed by culture with an (anti)-insulin receptor (IR) antibody.

Main Outcome Measures:

The effect of metformin on insulin-receptor substrate proteins 1 and 2 (IRS-1 and -2) mRNA and protein expression was determined. The KGN granulosa-cell line was used to investigate the effect of insulin and metformin on Akt activation and glucose transporter-4 (Glut-4) expression. Glut-4 translocation from the cytosol to the membrane was determined in cytoplasmic and membrane-enriched fractions of protein lysates.

Results:

IRS-1 mRNA and protein increased with all treatments. In contrast, basal IRS-2 mRNA levels were barely detectable, but transcription was up-regulated by metformin. The anti-IR antibody reduced treatment-stimulated IRS-1 to basal levels and IRS-2 expression to an even greater extent than IRS-1, showing greater dependence on the IR than IRS-1. Metformin in the presence of insulin activated Akt and this was dependent on phosphoinositide-3 kinase, as was translocation of Glut-4 to the membrane. Metformin was able to substantially enhance the insulin-stimulated translocation of Glut-4 transporters from the cytosol to the membrane.

Conclusion:

This net increase in Glut-4 transporters in the plasma membrane has the potential to increase glucose uptake and metabolism by granulosa cells of the insulin-resistant polycystic ovary, thereby facilitating follicle growth.
Comparative Analysis of the Course of Business Cycles and Thermodynamic Cycles
Authors: Włodarczyk Julia
Published: January 2014

Mainstream economics tends to perceive economic systems in a mechanistic way, which makes it impossible to grasp the notion of the irreversibility of real economic process­es and thus encourages referring to the achievements of thermodynamics.Although economic equivalents of thermodynamic quantities have been discussed for more than a hundred years, a sig­nificant development of thermodynamic techniques of modeling economic phenomena, that could complement standard econometric methods, has not been observed.It seems that a comparative analysis of the course of thermodynamic and business cycles could enhance the understand­ing of the mechanisms underlying business cycles, especially in the context of mutual rela­tions between economy and its environment.The aim of this article is to discuss some simi­larities and differences between economic and thermodynamic systems (heat engines and heat pumps). In particular, the problem of performing positive or negative work by an economy is considered and illustrated by the analysis of statistical data referring to the American and Polish economies.
Immunohistological Localization of Endogenous Unlabeled Stem Cells in Wounded Skin
Authors: Hong Song , Alapure Bhagwat V. , Lu Yan , Tian Haibin , Wang Quansheng
Published: January 2014

Various types of endogenous stem cells (SCs) participate in wound healing in the skin at different anatomical locations. SCs need to be identified through multiple markers, and this is usually performed using flow cytometry. However, immunohistological identification of endogenous stem cells in the skin at different anatomical locations by co-staining multiple SC markers has been seldom explored. We examined the immunohistological localization of four major types of SCs in wounded skin by co-staining for their multiple markers. Hematopoietic SCs were co-stained for Sca1 and CD45; mesenchymal SCs for Sca1, CD29, and CD106; adipose SCs for CD34, CD90, and CD105; and endothelial progenitor cells and their differentiated counterparts were co-stained for CD34, Tie2, and von Willebrand factor. We found Sca1+CD45+ SCs in the epidermis, dermis and hypodermis of wounded skin. Sca1+CD29+ and Sca1+CD106+ mesenchymal SCs, CD34+CD105+, CD34+CD90+, and CD90+CD105+ adipose SCs, as well as CD34+Tie2+ endothelial progenitor cells were also located in the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis. This study demonstrates the feasibility of using immunohistological staining to determine the location of SCs in wounded skin and the intracellular distribution of their molecular markers.
Rem2 Is an Activity-Dependent Negative Regulator of Dendritic ComplexityIn Vivo
Authors: Ghiretti Amy E. , Moore Anna R. , Brenner Rebecca G. , Chen Liang-Fu , West Anne E. , Lau Nelson C. , Van Hooser Stephen D. , Paradis Suzanne
Published: January 2014

A key feature of the CNS is structural plasticity, the ability of neurons to alter their morphology and connectivity in response to sensory experience and other changes in the environment. How this structural plasticity is achieved at the molecular level is not well understood. We provide evidence that changes in sensory experience simultaneously trigger multiple signaling pathways that either promote or restrict growth of the dendritic arbor; structural plasticity is achieved through a balance of these opposing signals. Specifically, we have uncovered a novel, activity-dependent signaling pathway that restricts dendritic arborization. We demonstrate that the GTPase Rem2 is regulated at the transcriptional level by calcium influx through L-VGCCs and inhibits dendritic arborization in cultured rat cortical neurons and in theXenopus laevistadpole visual system. Thus, our results demonstrate that changes in neuronal activity initiate competing signaling pathways that positively and negatively regulate the growth of the dendritic arbor. It is the balance of these opposing signals that leads to proper dendritic morphology.
Medial Septum-Diagonal Band of Broca (MSDB) GABAergic Regulation of Hippocampal Acetylcholine Efflux Is Dependent on Cognitive Demands
Authors: Roland Jessica J. , Stewart Amanda L. , Janke Kellie L. , Gielow Matthew R. , Kostek John A. , Savage Lisa M. , Servatius Richard J. , Pang Kevin C.H.
Published: January 2014

The septohippocampal pathway contains cholinergic, GABAergic, and glutamatergic projections and has an established role in learning, memory, and hippocampal theta rhythm. Both GABAergic and cholinergic neurons in the medial septum-diagonal band of Broca (MSDB) have been associated with spatial memory, but the relationship between the two neuronal populations is not fully understood. The present study investigated the effect of selective GABAergic MSDB lesions on hippocampal acetylcholine (ACh) efflux and spatial memory during tasks that varied in memory demand. Male Sprague Dawley rats were given GABAergic lesions of the MSDB using GAT1-saporin (GAT1-SAP) and examined on spontaneous exploration (Experiment 1) and non-matching to position without (NMTP; Experiment 2) and with a delay (DNMTP; Experiment 3), while concurrently usingin vivomicrodialysis to measure hippocampal ACh efflux. Intraseptal GAT1-SAP treatment did not alter baseline or behaviorally stimulated hippocampal ACh efflux or maze exploration (Experiment 1). Moreover, GAT1-SAP did not alter evoked hippocampal ACh efflux related to NMTP nor did it impair working memory in NMTP (Experiment 2). In contrast, both ACh efflux and performance in DNMTP were impaired by intraseptal GAT1-SAP. Thus, GABAergic MSDB neurons are important for spatial working memory and modulate hippocampal ACh efflux under conditions of high memory load. The relationship between the septohippocampal cholinergic and GABAergic systems and working memory will be discussed.
Hippocampal Long-Term Potentiation Is Disrupted during Expression and Extinction But Is Restored after Reinstatement of Morphine Place Preference
Authors: Portugal George S. , Al-Hasani Ream , Fakira Amanda K. , Gonzalez -Romero Jose L. , Melyan Zare , McCall Jordan G. , Bruchas Michael R. , Morón Jose A.
Published: January 2014

Learned associations between environmental cues and morphine use play an important role in the maintenance and/or relapse of opioid addiction. Although previous studies suggest that context-dependent morphine treatment alters glutamatergic transmission and synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus, their role in morphine conditioned place preference (CPP) and reinstatement remains unknown. We investigated changes in synaptic plasticity and NMDAR expression in the hippocampus after the expression, extinction, and reinstatement of morphine CPP. Here we report that morphine CPP is associated with increased basal synaptic transmission, impaired hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP), and increased synaptic expression of the NR1 and NR2b NMDAR subunits. Changes in synaptic plasticity, synaptic NR1 and NR2b expression, and morphine CPP were absent when morphine was not paired with a specific context. Furthermore, hippocampal LTP was impaired and synaptic NR2b expression was increased after extinction of morphine CPP, indicating that these alterations in plasticity may be involved in the mechanisms underlying the learning of drug–environment associations. After extinction of morphine CPP, a priming dose of morphine was sufficient to reinstate morphine CPP and was associated with LTP that was indistinguishable from saline control groups. In contrast, morphine CPP extinguished mice that received a saline priming dose did not show CPP and had disrupted hippocampal LTP. Finally, we found that reinstatement of morphine CPP was prevented by the selective blockade of the NR2b subunit in the hippocampus. Together, these data suggest that alterations in synaptic plasticity and glutamatergic transmission play an important role in the reinstatement of morphine CPP.
α2δ3 Is Essential for Normal Structure and Function of Auditory Nerve Synapses and Is a Novel Candidate for Auditory Processing Disorders
Authors: Pirone Antonella , Kurt Simone , Zuccotti Annalisa , Rüttiger Lukas , Pilz Peter , Brown David H. , Franz Christoph , Schweizer Michaela , Rust Marco B. , Rübsamen Rudolf , Friauf Eckhard , Knipper Marlies , Engel Jutta
Published: January 2014

The auxiliary subunit α2δ3 modulates the expression and function of voltage-gated calcium channels. Here we show that α2δ3 mRNA is expressed in spiral ganglion neurons and auditory brainstem nuclei and that the protein is required for normal acoustic responses. Genetic deletion of α2δ3 led to impaired auditory processing, with reduced acoustic startle and distorted auditory brainstem responses. α2δ3−/−mice learned to discriminate pure tones, but they failed to discriminate temporally structured amplitude-modulated tones. Light and electron microscopy analyses revealed reduced levels of presynaptic Ca2+channels and smaller auditory nerve fiber terminals contacting cochlear nucleus bushy cells. Juxtacellularin vivorecordings of sound-evoked activity in α2δ3−/−mice demonstrated impaired transmission at these synapses. Together, our results identify a novel role for the α2δ3 auxiliary subunit in the structure and function of specific synapses in the mammalian auditory pathway and in auditory processing disorders.
SIP30 Is Required for Neuropathic Pain-Evoked Aversion in Rats
Authors: Han Mei , Xiao Xiao , Yang Yan , Huang Ru-Yi , Cao Hong , Zhao Zhi-Qi , Zhang Yu-Qiu
Published: January 2014

SIP30 (SNAP25 interacting protein of 30) is a SNAP25 interaction protein of 30 kDa that functions in neurotransmitter release. Using a chronic constriction injury (CCI) model of neuropathic pain, we profiled gene expression in the rat spinal cord and brain and identifiedsip30, which was upregulated after CCI. Here, we show that CCI induced a bilateral increase of SIP30 in the rostral anterior cingulate cortex (rACC), a key brain region that has been implicated in pain affect. We put rats in a chamber with one half painted white (light area) and the other half painted black (dark area), and measured neuropathic pain-evoked place escape/avoidance paradigm (PEAP) to quantify the level of negative emotion evoked by painful stimuli using a Von Frey hair. Inhibition of CCI-mediated induction of SIP30 by intra-rACC injection of shRNA targeting the ratsip30gene reduced PEAP. Interestingly, knockdown of SIP30 did not affect CCI-induced evoked pain such as heat hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia. Neither did it affect general learning and memory. CCI-induced upregulation of SIP30 was correlated with activation of ERK, PKA, and CREB in the rACC. Intra-rACC administration of PKA or ERK inhibitors suppressed CCI-induced SIP30 upregulation and blocked the induction of PEAP. Additionally, knockdown of SIP30 suppressed the frequency of mEPSCs and increased paired-pulse ratios in rACC slices and decreased extracellular glutamate concentrations. Together, our results highlight SIP30 as a target of PKA and ERK in the rACC to mediate neuropathic pain-evoked negative emotion via modulation of glutamate release and excitatory synaptic transmission.
Electrical Stimulation of Motor Cortex in the Uninjured Hemisphere after Chronic Unilateral Injury Promotes Recovery of Skilled Locomotion through Ipsilateral Control
Authors: Carmel Jason B. , Kimura Hiroki , Martin John H.
Published: January 2014

Partial injury to the corticospinal tract (CST) causes sprouting of intact axons at their targets, and this sprouting correlates with functional improvement. Electrical stimulation of motor cortex augments sprouting of intact CST axons and promotes functional recovery when applied soon after injury. We hypothesized that electrical stimulation of motor cortex in the intact hemisphere after chronic lesion of the CST in the other hemisphere would restore function through ipsilateral control. To test motor skill, rats were trained and tested to walk on a horizontal ladder with irregularly spaced rungs. Eight weeks after injury, produced by pyramidal tract transection, half of the rats received forelimb motor cortex stimulation of the intact hemisphere. Rats with injury and stimulation had significantly improved forelimb control compared with rats with injury alone and achieved a level of proficiency similar to uninjured rats. To test whether recovery of forelimb function was attributable to ipsilateral control, we selectively inactivated the stimulated motor cortex using the GABA agonist muscimol. The dose of muscimol we used produces strong contralateral but no ipsilateral impairments in naive rats. In rats with injury and stimulation, but not those with injury alone, inactivation caused worsening of forelimb function; the initial deficit was reinstated. These results demonstrate that electrical stimulation can promote recovery of motor function when applied late after injury and that motor control can be exerted from the ipsilateral motor cortex. These results suggest that the uninjured motor cortex could be targeted for brain stimulation in people with large unilateral CST lesions.
Organized Labor and Democratization in Southeast Asia
Authors: Neureiter Michael
Published: January 2014

This study argues that well organized labor movements and increasing labor mobilization played a crucial role in the democratic transitions in Indonesia in 1998 and the Philippines in 1986. In contrast, the presence of less active and less organized labor unions in Malaysia, Myanmar, and Singapore appears to be an important reason for the durability of authoritarianism in those countries.
Heat Generated During Seating of Dental Implant Fixtures
Authors: Flanagan Dennis
Published: January 2014

Frictional heat can be generated during seating of dental implants into a drill-prepared osteotomy. This in vitro study tested the heat generated by implant seating in dense bovine mandible ramus. A thermocouple was placed approximately 0.5 mm from the rim of the osteotomy during seating of each dental implant. Four diameters of implants were tested. The average temperature increases were 0.075°C for the 5.7-mm-diameter implant, 0.97°C for the 4.7-mm-diameter implant, 1.4°C for the 3.7-mm-diameter implant, and 8.6°C for the 2.5-mm-diameter implant. The results showed that heat was indeed generated and a small temperature rise occurred, apparently by the friction of the implant surface against the fresh-cut bone surface. Bone is a poor thermal conductor. The titanium of the implant and the steel of the handpiece are much better heat conductors. Titanium may be 70 times more heat conductive than bone. The larger diameter and displacement implant may act as a heat sink to draw away any heat produced from the friction of seating the implant at the bone-implant interface. The peak temperature duration was momentary, and not measured, but this was approximately less than 1 second. Except for the 2.5-mm-diameter implants, the temperature rises and durations were found to be below those previously deemed to be detrimental, so no clinically significant osseous damage would be expected during dental implant fixture seating of standard and large-diameter-sized implants. A 2.5-mm implant may generate detrimental heat during seating in nonvital bone, but this may be clinically insignificant in vital bone. The surface area and thermal conductivity are important factors in removing generated heat transfer at the bone-implant interface. The F value as determined by analysis of variance was 69.22, and the P value was less than .0001, demonstrating significant differences between the groups considered as a whole.
Adaptacao e validacao do WHODAS 2.0 em utentes com dor musculoesqueletica
Authors: Silva Carla , Coleta Ines , Silva Anabela G , Amaro Antonio , Alvarelhao Joaquim , Queiros Alexandra , Rocha Nelson
Published: January 2014

OBJETIVO Validar a versão em português do World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS 2.0). MÉTODOS A versão original de 36 itens do WHODAS 2.0, administrada por entrevista, foi traduzida para o português de acordo com orientações internacionais e testada em nove participantes da população em geral. A versão em português foi administrada em 204 pacientes com patologia musculoesquelética. Foram coletados os dados sociodemográficos e de saúde dos pacientes, assim como o número de locais onde apresentavam dor e sua intensidade. O WHODAS 2.0 foi novamente administrado por um segundo entrevistador, um a três dias após a primeira entrevista, para avaliar a confiabilidade interavaliadores. A validade de constructo foi avaliada quanto a: capacidade do WHODAS 2.0 para diferenciar participantes com diferentes locais com dor e associação entre o WHODAS 2.0 e a intensidade da dor. A consistência interna também foi avaliada. RESULTADOS A versão portuguesa do WHODAS 2.0 teve fácil compreensão, apresentou boa consistência interna (α = 0,84) e confiabilidade interavaliadores (CCI = 0,95). Mostrou ser capaz de detectar diferenças estatisticamente significativas entre indivíduos com diferente número de locais com dor (p < 0,01) e indicar que maior incapacidade está associada à maior intensidade da dor (r = 0,44, p < 0,01), indicando validade de constructo. CONCLUSÕES A versão portuguesa do WHODAS 2.0 mostrou-se confiável e válida quando utilizada em pacientes com dor associada à patologia musculoesquelética.
Tele-asistencia y tele-alarma para adultos mayores: experiencias preliminares en Mexico
Authors: Giraldo-Rodriguez Liliana , Torres-Castro Sara , Martinez-Ramirez David , Gutierrez-Robledo Luis Miguel , Perez-Cuevas Ricardo
Published: January 2014

OBJETIVO Analizar el efecto de un programa piloto de tele-asistencia y tele-alarma en la autopercepción del estado de salud de los adultos mayores y conocer la satisfacción y aceptación del programa. METODOS Estudio transversal que incluyó entrevistas a 378 adultos mayores, 294 cuidadores/familiares y 53 profesionales de la salud, realizado en la Ciudad de México en 2010. Variables sociodemográficas, de autopercepción del estado de salud, satisfacción y aceptación del programa se obtuvieron por medio de cuestionario estandarizado. Se realizó análisis descriptivo y se utilizaron pruebas no paramétricas. RESULTADOS Se observaron efectos significativos en la autopercepción del estado de salud, 6,17 (DE 17,9 p < 0,05) puntos por encima de la media. El programa tuvo una buena aceptación por parte de los adultos mayores, de sus cuidadores familiares y de los profesionales de la salud. CONCLUSIONES El programa contribuye a mantener o mejorar la calidad de vida, permite la atención preventiva y es un medio ideal para dar apoyo psicosocial a los adultos mayores.
Impact Factor of the journal or citation to the articles for evaluating the curriculum vita of a researcher
Authors: Sathian Brijesh , Sreedharan Jayadevan , Banerjee Indrajit , Roy Bedanta , Chandrasekharan Nishida
Published: January 2014

"Some scientists "published research article" will be having lots of "citations" but it might not be published in a "high impact factor journal". There is no value for these scientists?DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/nje.v3i4.9497
Outcome of Surgical Decompression in Simple Degenerative Lumbar Canal Stenosis
Authors: Paudel Byapak , Chhabra Harvinder Singh , Pradhan Rabindra Lal , Arora Mohit
Published: January 2014

Introduction: A sensory or motor deficit occurs in about half of patients with symptomatic lumbar canal stenosis. There is no study evaluating neurologically deficient patients with simple degenerative lumbar canal stenosis using validated measures and there are no consensus about outcome predictor of surgical decompression is available in literature. Only one study assessed outcome of patients with neurological deficit but it had not excluded either patients with comorbid conditions that affect outcome or those with lumbar canal stenosis secondary to spondylolisthesis and scoliosis. The aim of this study was to assess overall result and to compare the surgically treated patients of simple degenerative lumbar canal stenosis using validated outcome measures like Oswestry Disability Scale (ODS), Neurogenic Claudication Score (NCS), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Satisfaction, this study also aimed to find outcome predictor of surgical decompression. Methods: This was a retrospective comparative study with homogenous cohorts with control of comorbid conditions that affect outcome. Each cohort ( Those with neurological deficit and without neurological deficit) had 11 patients who had adequate decompression with laminectomy and foraminotomies. Outcome was evaluated using validated ODS, NCS, VAS and Satisfaction in overall and also evaluated by each section of ODS, NCS with appropriate statistical analysis of both cohorts. Results: Neurologically deficient patients had more back pain, tingling, numbness, weakness and heaviness preoperatively. In neurologically deficient patients there was a trend to have poorer outcome, but overall recovery rate was higher than neurologically normal patients. Sensory deficit did not recover. The index surgery may not have effect on sitting and sleeping in both cohorts and may not have effect on lifting in neurologically normal patients and may not have effect on social life in neurological deficient patients. Additionally the index surgery may not have effect in relieving symptoms of numbness, tingling and heaviness and weakness in neurologically normal patients and may not have effect on standing in both cohorts. Recovery according to VAS was higher in neurologically normal patients. Preoperative NCS and preoperative heaviness and weakness severity contributed up to 43 % in ODS recovery rate. Conclusion: Overall there is a trend to have poorer outcome in neurologically deficient patients though recovery rate is better than neurologically normal patients. Recovery in term of VAS is better in neurologically normal patients. Preoperative NCS and preoperative heaviness and weakness severity score predict or contribute up to 43 % in ODS recovery rate. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/noaj.v3i2.9512   NOAJ July-December 2013, Vol 3, Issue 2, 2-9
Traumatic Spondyloptosis Causing Complete Transaction of Spinal Cord
Authors: Yadav Abhay , Sharma Sashmit
Published: January 2014

Traumatic spondyloptosis is a rare presentation and is usually due to very high energy trauma. It is accompanied with cord injury, mostly complete transaction of the cord. In managing such cases special consideration should be given to soft tissues, surrounding structures and organs in the traumatized area. We present a case of traumatic spondyloptosis of D12/L1 in a middle aged gentleman with complete cord transaction. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/noaj.v3i2.9527   NOAJ July-December 2013, Vol 3, Issue 2, 38-40
Oxygen Embolism During Surgical Lavage of Chronic Osteomyelitis of Femur with Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Rai Rem Kumar , Joshi Amit , Thapa Bishnu Babu , Magar Sushil Rana , Sah Dev Narayan
Published: January 2014

Hydrogen peroxide, an over the counter irrigation solution used in infected and dirty wounds, has been reported mainly in the anesthesia literature to have life threatening complications. We report a case of near fatal gas embolism during an orthopedic procedure of irrigating the wound of a 30 year old female with chronic osteomyelitis of the femur using hydrogen peroxide solution. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/noaj.v3i2.9528   NOAJ July-December 2013, Vol 3, Issue 2, 41-43
In vitro Root Culture : An Alternative Source of Bioactives in the Rare Aphrodisiac Herb Chlorophytum borivilianum Sant et Fern
Authors: Basu Sautrik , Jha Timir Baran
Published: January 2014

Chlorophytum borivilianum is a rare, near-endemic high value root crop. The fasciculated roots of the plant have the potential to synthesize valuable bioactives having aphrodisiac, anti stress and immuno modulatory properties. The present investigation describes an alternative protocol for the development of a stable, fast growing, non-transformed root culture system in C. borivilianum and the simultaneous quantitative analysis of total steroidal saponins, amino acids and sugars. Liquid MS fortified with various concentrations and combinations of BA (0.44 - 8.8 µM), Kn (0.23 µM) and NAA (0.27 - 5.4 µM) was effectively used for the development of root culture system. High performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) was used for quantification and comparative analysis of bioactives from in vitro and in vivo grown tuberous roots. D. O. I.  http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ptcb.v23i2.17505 Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 23(2): 133-146, 2013  (December)
Induction of Somatic Embryogenesis in Vulnerable Medicinal Plant Hedychium spicatum Buch-Ham ex Smith
Authors: Giri Dinesh , Tamta Sushma
Published: January 2014

This protocol has been developed for somatic embryogenesis in Hedychium spicatum. Simultaneously, a method has also been developed for the production of synthetic seeds by using somatic embryos. Direct somatic embryos were developed on cotyledon explants of zygotic embryos on MS supplemented with high concentration of NAA (20.0 µM). Induction of secondary embryogenesis was best in 2,4-D supplemented medium fortified with activated charcoal. Germination of somatic embryos was enhanced by using GA3. Besides this, round and semi-hard beads of somatic embryos (synthetic seeds) could be produced by using 2% Na-alginate and 100 mM calcium chloride and more than 30% germination of synthetic seeds was achieved in MS. Well acclimated plants produced via somatic embryogenesis and/or synthetic seeds were transferred to field where more than 60% survived. This simple study enabled us to obtain a number of plantlets throughout the year each cycle requiring a short period of time. Besides propagation, this study provided an ex situ method for conservation of this vulnerable Himalayan species.D. O. I.http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ptcb.v23i2.17506Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 23(2): 147-155, 2013  (December)
Factors Affecting the Selection of Callus Cell Lines and the Preparation of the Cell Suspension Culture of Artemisia annua L.
Authors: Jin Chng Song , Keng Chan Lai
Published: January 2014

Artemisinin, an important antimalarial drug against multidrug resistant strains of Plasmodium, can be produced in Artemisia annua L. Field production of artemisinin is affected by environmental condition and geographical location. In vitro production via cell suspension culture is an alternative mode and cell line selection is important to ensure sustainable production of biomass and artemisinin. Callus cell lines were derived from the leaf explants of five A. annua clones grown in two different locations in Vietnam. Thirty-four callus cell lines with consistent growth index (GI) were selected from these five clones and were categorized into fast (GI > 20), intermediate (GI 15 - 20) and slow (GI < 15) growing groups. The selected lines were found to have different morphology in term of colour and texture. The callus texture did affect the cell growth of A. annua in which the friable callus type showed faster, consistent and sustainable cell biomass production.D. O. I.http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ptcb.v23i2.17507Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 23(2): 157-163, 2013  (December)
In vitro Mass Propagation of Artemisia (Artemisia annua L.) cv: Anamed
Authors: Hailu Tilahun , Abera Balcha , Mariam Gabra
Published: January 2014

An efficient in vitro propagation protocol was developed for anamed (A-3) cultivar of Artemisia annua. Two and 1.5% concentration of NaOCl treatment for 10 and 20 min were found to be optimum for sterilization of shoot tip and nodal explants, respectively. Maximum percentage (98.75 ± 2.50) shoot induction was observed from nodal explants cultured on MS supplemented with 0.8 mg/l BAP + 0.1 mg/l IBA  followed by 82.50 ± 2.88% from shoot tip explants on the same medium with 0.8 mg/l TDZ for shoot tip explants. The highest number of shoots (8.05 ± 0.66/explant) was regenerated on MS + 1 mg/l BAP + 0.1 mg/l IBA. Best rooting with mean values of 18.25 ± 0.95/explant root number and root length (6.35 ± 0.10 cm) was recorded on 1/2 MS + 0.5 mg/l IBA. Up on acclimation and transplanting, 80% survival efficiency was observed on the soil mix ratio of  2 : 1 : 1 (decomposed coffee husk, forest soil and sand, respectively). The developed regeneration protocol enables a large scale commercial production and a possible system towards the genetic improvement of this crop. D. O. I. http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ptcb.v23i2.17518 Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 23(2): 165-176, 2013  (December)
Genetic Diversity Analysis of Eighteen Tea (Camellia sinensis L.) Clones of Bangladesh Through RAPD
Authors: Boonerjee Shefali , Islam M. Nurul , Hoque M. I. , Sarker R. H.
Published: January 2014

Using 20 decamer random primers molecular characterization of 18 tea (Camellia sinensis L.) clones of Bangladesh was made. All the primers showed significant amplification in PCR analysis. A total of 755 bands was produced in all the 18 tea clones with an average of 37.75 RAPD bands per primer. Among all the bands 97.41% were polymorphic in nature. The molecular size of the amplified DNA fragments ranged from 250 to 5000 bp. Ten unique bands were amplified from the genome of the 18 tea clones. The values of pairwise genetic distance ranged from 24.0 to 59.0 indicating the presence of a wide range of genetic diversity. The highest genetic distance 59 was found between the clone BT16 and BT2, whereas the lowest (24.0) between BT18 and BT5. The dendrogram based on Neis genetic distance was constructed using un-weighted Pair Group of Arithmetic Mean (UPGMA) segregating the 18 tea clones into two major clusters: BT9 and BT13 in cluster 1 and the remainder of 16 clones in cluster 2. Cluster 2 is further sub-divided into many sub-clusters. Cluster analysis revealed that while the genotype BT5 is closely related to BT18,  BT1 and BT2 showed similarity with BT8. Genotypes BT1 and BT13 were widely diverse genetically. D. O. I. http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ptcb.v23i2.175010 Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 23(2): 189-199, 2013  (December)
In vitro Morphogenesis of Arabian Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.)
Authors: Azad Md. Abul Kalam , Arefin Hasnatul , Hossain Md. Amzad
Published: January 2014

After inoculation of young leaves of date palm offshoot required about six months to complete the morphogenesis process. Fourteen weeks were required for embryogenic callus formation under continuous dark condition and nine weeks for shoot initiation (under 16/8 h light/dark). The highest number of explants (80%) produced callus in modified MS containing 5 mg/l 2,4-D + 2 mg/l 2ip. Sixty per cent of explants produced callus in the modified medium containing 5 mg/l 2,4-D + 5 mg/l NAA. while only 50 per cent of the explants formed callus in the same medium when supplemented with only 5 mg/l 2,4-D. The induced calli were transferred to modified MS for shoot proliferation. A combination of two cytokines showed better performance than single ones in shoot induction. The highest percentage (70) of shoot developed in modified MS containing 2 mg/l BAP + 1 mg/l Kn. Forty per cent shoot induction was found in the same medium supplemented with 2 mg/l of BAP. Thirty per cent shoot formed in MS containing 1 mg/l of Kn. The shoots were subcultured at three- four week intervals throughout culture duration. D. O. I. http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ptcb.v23i2.17522 Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 23(2): 211-219, 2013  (December)
In vitro Axillary Shoot Regeneration and Direct Protocorm-like Body Induction from Axenic Shoot Tips of Doritis pulcherrima Lindl.
Authors: Mondal Tustu , Aditya Sumana , Banerjee Nirmalya
Published: January 2014

An efficient protocol for in vitro propagation of an important ornamental terrestrial orchid, Doritis pulcherima Lindl. through axillary shoot and direct protocorm-like body (PLB) formation from shoot tip explants derived from six- month-old axenic seedlings has been described. Shoot tips were cultured on modified nutrient medium of Knudsons C supplemented with 0.1% peptone and combination of various concentrations of NAA and BAP. The effect of NAA and BAP on axillary shoot formation, protocorm-like body induction and root regeneration from the explants was significant. The highest frequency of axillary shoot formation was recorded in the medium containing 2 mg/l BAP and the PLB production was higher in the medium containing 2 mg/l NAA. A higher concentration of BAP showed inhibitory effects on the axillary shoot formation and PLB induction. Efficient root regeneration was observed in low concentration of NAA. However, the profuse root formation was common in the PGR free medium. Rooted plantlets were hardened successfully through the stepwise acclimation protocol and platelets were finally established in the potting mixture containing small pieces of dead tree bark of mango, charcoal pieces and broken bricks in 1 : 2 : 1 ratio. D. O. I. http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ptcb.v23i2.17526 Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 23(2): 251-261, 2013  (December)
Les inscriptions de Bāb Manṣūr al-‛Ilǧ : déchiffrement et traduction
Authors: Daaïf Lahcen
Published: January 2014

[fr] La ville de Meknès s’identifie presque à un seul monument : la porte de Bāb Manṣūr al-‛Ilǧ qui fut édifiée par Mawlāy Ismā‛īl puis rénovée et orneée par son fils Mawlāy ‛Abd Allāh. Cet article s’emploie à retracer, dans leurs contextes historiques respectifs, les deux étapes-clés de la construction de cette porte, en s’attardant aussi bien sur sa présentation architecturale que sur sa description épigraphique. Il propose le déchiffrement intégral de l’inscription située sur la partie supérieure de sa facade extérieure, et par suite une nouvelle traduction, le tout illustré avec des planches.
Saladino y las campañas ayyubíes en el Magreb
Authors: Baadj Amar
Published: January 2014

Este artículo trata sobre la conquista de Libia y Túnez por Saladino (Salah al-Din) y los Ayyubíes en las décadas de 1170 y 1180. En primer lugar se presenta una reconstrucción de las campanas dirigidas por los mamelucos ayyubíes Sharaf al-Din Qaraqush e Ibn Qaratikin en Libia y de la guerra entre los almohades y los Ayyubíes en Ifriqiya (Túnez) basada en fuentes primarias relevantes. A continuación se estudia en qué medida Saladino fue el responsable de estas expediciones militares y, finalmente, se discute el motivo de dichas expediciones. Se llega a la conclusión de que Saladino y sus emires invadieron el Magreb con el fin de controlar los puntos septentrionales de los ejes oriental y central de las rutas comerciales que cruzaban el Sahara y con esto lograr tener acceso al oro de África Occidental que pasaba a lo largo de estas rutas. Esto ocurrió en un momento en que había una gran escasez de metales preciosos en Egipto y Saladino necesitaba efectivo para pagar sus guerras con los cruzados en Palestina.
Ausente pero siempre presente: reflexiones sobre el secreto en la tradición šī‛i y en el misticismo sunní
Authors: Ebstein Michael
Published: January 2014

Este artículo analiza el ḥadīṯ que se encuentra tanto en las fuentes šī‛íes como sunníes que retrata al creyente ideal como un hombre escondido que elige practicar su religión apartado de los ojos de los otros. Según el autor, esta tradición tiene su origen en las luchas político-religiosas (fintas) del siglo II/VIII, que propiciaron una actitud piadosa de retiro de la sociedad y no participación en tiempos de lucha civil. En las versiones šī‛íes del ḥadīṯ el elemento de secreto, taqiyya, se anade a la descripción del creyente ideal. Estos motivos habrán de desempenar un papel importante en movimientos místicos como el de malāmatiyya. Aunque el esoterismo šī‛í y el misticismo sunní incorporaron hadices similares a su elaboración del santo escondido, la tradición šī‛í contribuyó particularmente al desarrollo de este tema tanto en términos ético-psicológicos como esotéricos.
Taqiyya, niyya y el islam de los moriscos
Authors: Bernabé-Pons Luis F.
Published: January 2014

La afirmación de que los moriscos conocieron e hicieron uso del concepto islámico de taqiyya se ha convertido casi en una obligación para todos aquellos que se acercan a las circunstancias de sus vidas de criptomusulmanes. Sin embargo, ese término no se encuentra en toda la producción escrita de los moriscos, por más que desde la fetua del muftí de Orán tienen unas claves para desarrollar su religión en un entorno hostil. Sin negar que los moriscos acudieron al disimulo para su seguridad, el objetivo de este trabajo es plantear por un lado que el concepto de niyya es más ajustado para explicar el modo en que los moriscos desarrollaban su creencia y su culto y, por otro, que los hispanomusulmanes se vieron impelidos, ya desde época mudéjar, a hacer lo que otros a su alrededor también hacían.
Le corps de ville à Brest : composition, fonctionnement et rôles (1750-1790)
Authors: Baron Bruno
Published: January 2014

Dans la seconde moitié du xviiie siècle, la ville de Brest est administrée par un corps de ville qui comprend deux entités : le corps en exercice (maire, échevins, procureur syndic, conseillers) et l’ancien corps (membres ayant quitté le corps en exercice).L’histoire de cette institution est assez récente car la première véritable organisation municipale n’apparaît qu’à la fin du xvie siècle et connaît jusqu’en 1750 quelques modifications et ajustements.L’élément essentiel de cette administration est le maire, sur qui repose la majeure partie du travail. De la nature et de la motivation de cet individu dépend le dynamisme influé à la cité du Ponant. Il est aidé ponctuellement dans sa tâche par neuf autres officiers municipaux, qui sont cooptés à la différence du maire qui lui, est élu par une assemblée générale.Ces édiles forment un groupe d’élites municipales. Cependant, si les carrières et les promotions semblent importantes au sein du corps de ville, ces personnages demeurent en retrait des nombreuses autorités nobiliaires présentes à Brest et ne peuvent rivaliser dans leurs actions avec le pouvoir des militaires qui constituent la véritable élite sociale.
La pluriactivité dans le port de Dieppe : Hôtes-vendeurs et guerre de course à la fin du Moyen Âge
Authors: Lardin Philippe
Published: January 2014

La pêche aux harengs était une activité de base pour l’économie de Dieppe Elle ne durait que cinq à six semaines par an au Moyen Âge. Pendant le reste de l’année, les marins comme les marchands de ce poisson devaient rechercher ailleurs de quoi subvenir à leur existence. Parmi les professionnels concernés par cette question se trouvaient les hôtes. Ces derniers s’occupaient, pour le compte des pêcheurs, des formalités administratives nécessaires au déchargement de leurs prises. Au fil du temps, leur position d’intermédiaires les avaient conduits à étendre considérablement le spectre de leurs activités. Ils pouvaient participer à toutes sortes d’opérations économiques ou politiques. Certains étaient aussi marchands de poisson, de vin, de sel et de fer, d’autres encore aubergistes, armateurs, merciers, sauniers, etc. Souvent, ils avaient placé leur capital dans des rentes et jouaient un rôle important dans l’administration fiscale et municipale. Quant aux pêcheurs, leurs possibilités étaient plus étroites. Aussi, profitant du climat d’insécurité que faisait régner la guerre de Cent Ans, beaucoup firent de la guerre de course un complément de ressources appréciable.
La pluralité des activités, une forme de réactivité commerciale
Authors: Bochaca Michel
Published: January 2014

Les activités commerciales de Thomas de Bondié, bourgeois et marchand de Bordeaux, sont éclairées par une centaine d’actes notariés concentrés entre avril 1505 et décembre 1506. Tout en développant ses propres affaires, il affrète les navires sur lesquels le pastel d’importants marchands de Toulouse est expédié vers l’Angleterre et la Flandre. Lorsque l’occasion se présente Thomas de Bondié n’hésite pas à se lancer dans des opérations sortant de l’ordinaire, tant par les produits traités que par les routes commerciales empruntées. Pour ce marchand, comme pour beaucoup d’autres de son époque, la pluralité des activités constitue une forme de réactivité commerciale et d’adaptation aux opportunités du marché.
Les groupes d’intérêts et la gestion des risques dans le commerce maritime et la pêche des anciens Pays-Bas, vers 1480-1560
Authors: Sicking Louis
Published: January 2014

Le duché de Brabant et les comtés de Flandre, Hollande et Zélande étaient considérés comme le centre névralgique des Pays-Bas aux xve-xvie siècles : la majorité de la population y habitait, le degré d’urbanisation y était le plus élevé et la production industrielle et artistique y était concentrée. De véritables sociétés maritimes s’y étaient également développées. Les administrations régionales de ces provinces côtières et les administrations locales des villes littorales faisaient pression sur le gouvernement central afin que leurs intérêts soient défendus. Il s’agissait tout particulièrement du commerce maritime et de la pêche, deux activités qui étaient mises en danger par la guerre, la course et la piraterie. Ces menaces furent quasi permanentes pendant les guerres entre les Valois et les Habsbourg, seulement interrompues épisodiquement entre 1521 et 1559, et eurent de graves conséquences sur la pêche et le commerce maritime. Pour y obvier, des groupes d’intérêts ont souvent essayé d’influencer les autorités régionales et centrales afin de les sensibiliser à la défense de leurs intérêts. L’article propose une analyse comparative de leurs initiatives afin de mettre en évidence leurs stratégies de résorption des risques.