bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inflation Dynamics When Inflation Is Near Zero
Authors: FUHRER JEFFREY C. , OLIVEI GIOVANNI P. , TOOTELL GEOFFREY M. B.
Published: February 2012

We discuss the likely evolution of U.S. inflation in the near and medium terms on the basis of (i) past U.S. experience with very low levels of inflation, (ii) the most recent Japanese experience with negative inflation, and (iii) some preliminary U.S. micro evidence on downward nominal wage rigidity. Our findings question the view that stable long‐run inflation expectations and downward nominal wage rigidity will necessarily provide sufficient support to prices to avoid further declines in inflation. We show that an inflation model fitted on Japanese data over the past 20 years, which accounts for both short‐ and long‐run inflation expectations, matches the recent U.S. inflation experience quite well. While the model indicates that U.S. inflation might be subject to a lower bound, it does not rule out a prolonged period of low inflation or even mild deflation going forward. In addition, micro‐level data on wages suggest no obvious downward rigidity in the firm's wage bill, downward rigidity in individual wages notwithstanding. As a consequence, downward nominal wage rigidity may not be enough to offset deflationary pressures in the current situation.
Selective Atrial Vagal Denervation Guided by Evoked Vagal Reflex to Treat Refractory Vasovagal Syncope
Authors: LIANG ZHAO , JIAYOU ZHANG , ZONGGUI WU , DENING LIAO
Published: February 2012

A 57‐year‐old woman with refractory vasovagal syncope and a sinus pause of 6.8 seconds during tilt‐table test accepted the suggestion of atrial vagal denervation. Radiofrequency pulses were delivered on positive vagal reflex sites according to the standard of heart rate (HR) drop ≥20% after high frequency stimulation (HFS). The endpoint of inexistence of HR decrease at repeating HFS was achieved in 18 sites. No syncope attacked during 12 months and three tilt‐table tests performed at 1, 6, and 12 months were negative. Extensive ablation on atrial endocardium for vagal denervation is suggested to be efficient in cardioinhibition type of VVS.

(PACE 2012;1–5)
Usefulness of Live/Real Time Three‐Dimensional Transesophageal Echocardiography in the Assessment of Severe Mitral Annuloplasty Ring Dehiscence
Authors: Piatkowski Radoslaw , Janusz Kochanowski , Scislo Piotr , Opolski Grzegorz
Published: February 2012

We present the case of a 47‐year‐old patient presented with a 2‐month history of progressive dyspnea after an annuloplasty ring implantation for severe ischemic mitral regurgitation. The value and practical application of threedimensional transesophageal echocardiography in visualization of the severe mitral annuloplasty ring dehiscence is discussed.
The Challenges of Qualitatively Coding Ancient Texts
Authors: Slingerland Edward , Chudek Maciej
Published: February 2012

We respond to several important and valid concerns about our study (“The Prevalence of Folk Dualism in Early China,”Cognitive Science 35: 997–1007) by Klein and Klein, defending our interpretation of our data. We also argue that, despite the undeniable challenges involved in qualitatively coding texts from ancient cultures, the standard tools used throughout the cognitive sciences—large quantities of data, coders as blind to the hypothesis as possible, intercoder reliability measures, and statistical analysis—allow the noise of randomly distributed interpretative differences to be distinguished from the signal of genuine historical patterns.
Usefulness of CT Angiography for Therapeutic Decision Making in Thrombolyzing Intubated Patients with Suspected Basilar Artery Thrombosis
Authors: Ng Kay W.P. , Venketasubramanian N. , Yeo Leonard L.L. , Ahmad Aftab , Loh Pei K. , Seet Raymond C.S. , Teoh Hock L. , Chan Bernard P.L. , Sharma Vijay K.
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) due to basilar artery thrombosis (BAT) causes high mortality and severe disability. Early neurological assessment and timely thrombolysis might improve outcome. BAT is difficult to diagnose due to wide spectrum of presentation and decreased conscious level. Emergency physicians often intubate BAT patients with airway compromise before arrival of stroke neurologist. We evaluated role of computerized tomography (CT) angiography (CTA) of brain and cervical arteries in early diagnosis of acute BAT in intubated patients and facilitating decision for thrombolysis.

METHODS

Consecutive AIS patients presenting between 2007 and 2009 within 6 hours of symptom onset, with sudden deterioration in conscious level and intubation before assessment by neurologist, were included. All patients underwent brain CT and CTA. Outcomes were assessed at 3 months.

RESULTS

Thrombolytic therapy, mainly intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (IV‐TPA), was administered to 161 (8.4%) of 1,917 AIS patients during the study period. Acute BAT contributed 10.9% of our cohort. CTA was performed in 152 (94.4%) patients and the rest were excluded due to their impaired renal functions. Five patients (3 males, mean age 72 years) presenting with acute obtundation and airway compromise were intubated, sedated, and paralyzed before assessment by neurologist. CTA showed BAT in all. IV‐TPA was initiated at 213 ± 59 minutes in 4 patients while 1 received intraarterial thrombolysis at 13 hours. There was no intracranial hemorrhage. Mean length of hospital stay was 11.8 days. Despite severe stroke at presentation, good functional recovery at 3 months (modified Rankin scale [mRS] 1) occurred in 2 patients; mRS 4 in 1, and 2 died.

CONCLUSION

In patients with BAT, intubated before assessment by neurologist, CTA might help in confirming the diagnosis and facilitating therapeutic decision making for initiating thrombolysis.
Leukoencephalopathies in Mitochondrial Disorders: Clinical and MRI Findings
Authors: Finsterer Josef , Zarrouk Mahjoub Sinda
Published: February 2012

The second most frequently affected organ in mitochondrial disorders (MIDs) is the central nervous system (CNS). One of the most frequent CNS abnormalities on imaging is the affection of the white matter (WMLs) for which the term, leukoencephalopathies in mitochondrial disorders (LEM), is proposed. The morphology of LEM on imaging is quite variable even within the same type of MID and the same family. LEM can be a subtle or prominent feature on imaging and may go along with or without clinical neurologic or neuropsychological manifestations. WMLs are most likely due to the underlying metabolic defect of the respiratory chain or concomitant oxidative stress, resulting in neuronal death and replacement of neurons by glial cells. WMLs in MIDs frequently give rise to misinterpretation, particularly if the mitochondrial defect is not evident in organs other than the CNS or if the presence of WMLs does not induce consideration of a MID as a differential. The diagnosis of a LEM requires the diagnosis of an MID, the detection of WMLs on imaging, and the exclusion of all possible differentials. Because the presence of LEM has an impact on the prognosis of an MID, all MID patients should undergo cerebral imaging even in the absence of clinical CNS manifestations.
The novel, orally bioavailable HSP90 inhibitor NVP‐HSP990 induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in multiple myeloma cells and acts synergistically with melphalan by increased cleavage of caspases
Authors: Lamottke Britta , Kaiser Martin , Mieth Maren , Heider Ulrike , Gao Zhenhai , Nikolova Zariana , Jensen Michael R. , Sterz Jan , von Metzler Ivana , Sezer Orhan
Published: February 2012

Heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) binds and stabilizes numerous proteins and kinases essential for myeloma cell survival and proliferation. We and others have recently demonstrated that inhibition of HSP90 by small molecular mass inhibitors induces cell death in multiple myeloma (MM). However, some of the HSP90 inhibitors involved in early clinical trials have shown limited antitumor activity and unfavorable toxicity profiles. Here, we analyzed the effects of the novel, orally bioavailable HSP90 inhibitor NVP‐HSP990 on MM cell proliferation and survival. The inhibitor led to a significant reduction in myeloma cell viability and induced G2 cell cycle arrest, degradation of caspase‐8 and caspase‐3, and induction of apoptosis. Inhibition of the HSP90 ATPase activity was accompanied by the degradation of MM phospho‐Akt and phospho‐ERK1/2 and upregulation of Hsp70. Exposure of MM cells to a combination of NVP‐HSP990 and either melphalan or histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors caused synergistic inhibition of viability, increased induction of apoptosis, and was able to overcome the primary resistance of the cell line RPMI‐8226 to HSP90 inhibition. Combined incubation with melphalan and NVP‐HSP990 led to synergistically increased cleavage of caspase‐2, caspase‐9, and caspase‐3. These data demonstrate promising activity for NVP‐HSP990 as single agent or combination treatment in MM and provide a rationale for clinical trials.
How graphic novels support reading comprehension strategy development in children
Authors: Brenna Beverley
Published: February 2012

This qualitative case study explored the relationship between comprehension strategies and graphic novels in one Grade 4 classroom, utilising children as informants. The primary research questions related to children's applications of metacognitive reading comprehension strategies as well as the potential for graphic novels to support the students’ development as readers. Findings demonstrated that the children were able to apply two types of strategies to their reading of graphic novels: ‘keys’ that supported form‐specific comprehension strategies and ‘master keys’ that supported more general comprehension strategies that could be applied to other types of texts. Student preferences for graphic novels aligned with their preferences for reading narrative novels and non‐fiction, and did not align with preferences regarding comics or cartoons. Student preferences for reading graphic novels increased throughout the study. Fluent student responses to graphic novels through process drama were identified. Implications of the study involve the employment of graphic novels to support metacognitive strategies for reading and writing as well as to facilitate process drama.
Biopsychosocial Model of Hypersexuality in Adolescent Girls With Bipolar Disorder: Strategies for Intervention
Authors: Basco Monica Ramirez , Celis‐de Hoyos Cintly E.
Published: February 2012

TOPIC:  Engagement in high‐risk behaviors, impaired judgment, and hypersexuality present unique health challenges to adolescent girls with bipolar disorder (BD). Behavioral management of sexuality does not routinely fall under the purview of psychiatric care, but requires preventive measures.

PURPOSE:  This paper presents a biopsychosocial model of hypersexuality in girls with BD, describes factors that lead to high‐risk sexual behaviors, and provides a framework for cognitive–behavioral intervention.

SOURCES USED:  The study used a review of empirically based clinical and research literature.

CONCLUSIONS:  Sexual health education, improved treatment adherence, symptom monitoring, interpersonal skills training, parental involvement, and clinician education can improve hypersexual behavior in girls with BD.
Using evolutionary tools to facilitate the prediction and prevention of host‐based differentiation in biological control: a review and perspective
Authors: Vorsino A.E. , Wieczorek A.M. , Wright M.G. , Messing R.H.
Published: February 2012

The unprecedented success of biological control (biocontrol) agents led some of the proponents of this technology to promote its use as a panacea for all pest problems. Following an accumulation of non‐target host interactions, because of generalist or new association introductions, techniques to help ensure classical biocontrol agent's success and reduce non‐target interactions were implemented. Even with these new measures in place, public and scientific mistrust and lack of consistency has resulted in increased regulation of biocontrol introductions. This has likely decreased the probability of effective, sustainable control measures being expeditiously implemented. With the current apprehension concerning the safety of biocontrol, we should incorporate the processes (adaptation, selection, etc.) and theoretical concepts of evolutionary biology to predict and enhance the effectiveness of biocontrol. The microevolutionary perspective that involves mutation, drift, selection and gene flow may be a crucial consideration in the realm of biocontrol. Here, we discuss how and why spatial and evolutionary models should be implemented into future risk assessment analyses of potential biocontrol agents. We suggest that it is necessary to re‐assess the approach that has developed over the past approximately 100 years of sustained releases and illuminate them in the context of an evolutionary timescale.
Diversity management in Australia: a mosaic of concepts, practice and rhetoric
Authors: Kramar Robin
Published: February 2012

Diversity management is a term that has become increasingly popular and well established in organisations in Australia. However, it is a term which has no single definition. This article examines the variety of concepts, processes and models of diversity management in the international context. It also examines the practice of diversity management in Australia and highlights the inconsistencies present in the operation of diversity management in private and public sector organisations. The final section explores some of the challenges and future research directions for diversity management.
Managing work health and safety: recent developments and future directions
Authors: Gallagher Clare , Underhill Elsa
Published: February 2012

Effective management of occupational health and safety (OHS) continues to pose a challenge to many organisations. While significant advancement has occurred in knowledge about traditional workplace risks, organisational and labour market changes have created new risks, psychosocial risks are more prevalent, and the trend towards the adoption ofOHSmanagement systems has produced only mixed results. These issues are the focus of this review of recent developments in workplace health and safety. We argue there is a need for organisations to refocus systematically on a collaborative approach to identifying and controlling workplace risks, and on improving the integration ofOHSinto broader systems and every day management to better meet existing and futureOHSchallenges.
A Sunyaev–Zel'dovich take on cluster radio haloes – I. Global scaling and bi-modality using Planck data
Authors: Basu Kaustuv
Published: February 2012

Giant radio haloes in galaxy clusters are the primary evidence for the existence of relativistic particles (cosmic rays) and magnetic fields over Mpc scales. Observational tests for the different theoretical models explaining their powering mechanism have so far been obtained through X-ray selection of clusters, e.g. by comparing cluster X-ray luminosities with radio halo power. Here we present the first global scaling relations between radio halo power and integrated Sunyaev–Zel'dovich (SZ) effect measurements, using the Planck all-sky cluster catalogue and published radio data. The correlation agrees well with previous scaling measurements based on X-ray data and offers a more direct probe into the mass dependence inside radio haloes. However, we find no strong indication for a bi-modal cluster population split between radio halo and radio-quiet objects. We discuss the possible causes for this apparent lack of bi-modality and compare the observed slope of the radio–SZ correlation with competing theoretical models of radio halo origin.
Characteristic Features of Stem Cells in Glioblastomas: From Cellular Biology to Genetics
Authors: Knights Mark J. , Kyle Stuart , Ismail Azzam
Published: February 2012

Glioblastoma is the most common type of primary brain tumor in adults and is among the most lethal and least successfully treated solid tumors. Recently, research into the area of stem cells in brain tumors has gained momentum. However, due to the relatively new and novel hypothesis that a subpopulation of cancer cells in each malignancy has the potential for tumor initiation and repopulation, the data in this area of research are still in its infancy. This review article is aimed at attempting to bring together research carried out so far in order to build an understanding of glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs). Initially, we consider GSCs at a morphological and cellular level, and then discuss important cell markers, signaling pathways and genetics. Furthermore, we highlight the difficulties associated with what some of the evidence indicates and what collectively the studies contribute to further defining the interpretation of GSCs.
On Teams: Unifying Themes and the Way Ahead
Authors: Tannenbaum Scott I. , Mathieu John E. , Salas Eduardo , Cohen Debra
Published: February 2012

The commentaries to our focal article were both interesting and stimulating. As we generally agreed with the major points raised in the commentaries, we use this response to frame an on-going tension point or challenge regarding team definitions, highlight a few unifying themes that weave through our initial article and the commentaries, and discuss the transition from research to informed practice. The past few decades have been exciting times for team researchers and practitioners, and the time is ripe for new energies and approaches.
How many elephants can you fit into a conservation area
Authors: Scheiter Simon , Higgins Steven I.
Published: February 2012

The African elephant is the largest extant terrestrial mammal and a reminder of the Pleistocene megafauna. Their survival is, however, dependent on conservation areas. In some conservation areas, rapidly growing elephant populations have led conservation biologists to ask, how many elephants can these areas support? The debate is polarized by arguments for large populations for economic, social, or ethical reasons and arguments for smaller populations that avoid biodiversity loss. We use a novel dynamic modeling approach to assess how climate change‐induced vegetation change may influence the capacity of a conservation area to support large herbivores. The model projects that elephant densities and fire have substantial impacts on vegetation under current climatic conditions. Under future conditions, the capacity to support elephants increases due to CO2‐induced increases in woody plant productivity. We conclude that sustainable management in conservation areas needs to be conditioned on the effects of climate change on vegetation.
Silver‐coated endotracheal tube versus non‐coated endotracheal tube for preventing ventilator‐associated pneumonia among adults: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Li Xiao , Yuan Qiang , Wang Li , Du Liang , Deng Lijing
Published: February 2012

Objective: To compare the effects of using silver‐coated endotracheal tube (ETT) versus non‐coated ETT on the incidence of ventilator‐associated pneumonia (VAP) and mortality in adult patients.

Method: We searched MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and the Chinese Biomedical Literature Database from inception to June 30, 2011. We also retrieved the reference lists of included studies and reviews. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing silver‐coated ETTs versus non‐coated ETTs were included. We pooled the results using a random‐effect model and conducted subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses to address the heterogeneity between studies.

Results: We identified two eligible RCTs with a total of 1630 participants. The studies were of high quality according to Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing risk of bias. Compared with non‐coated ETTs, silver‐coated ETTs resulted in lower incidence of VAP (RR=0.64, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.96), device‐related adverse events (RR=0.53, 95% CI 0.32 to 0.88), and microbiologic burden (≥10,000 CFU/mL: 0.64, 0.48 to 0.86; ≥100,000 CFU/mL: 0.62, 0.43 to 0.89). However, there was no significant difference in total mortality (RR=1.14, 95% CI 0.99 to 1.30).

Conclusion: The limited evidence from meta‐analysis of two RCTs showed that using silver‐coated ETTs reduced the incidence of VAP, microbiologic burden, and device‐related adverse events among adult patients. Additional rigorous randomized trials are needed to confirm these findings.
Ultrastructural localization of tubulin and actin in polyethylene glycol‐embedded rat seminiferous epithelium by immunogold staining
Authors: Wolosewick J. J. , de Mey J. , Meininger V.
Published: February 2012

The polyethylene glycol (PEG) method for immunofluorescence localization of cytoskeletal antigens has been extended to the ultrastructural level using glutaraldehyde‐fixed tissues and immunogold staining. Semithin sections of fixed tissue embedded in polyethylene glycol are divested of the PEG, exposed to purified antibodies (e.g., antiactin, antitubulin) and anti‐IgG‐colloidal gold. The sections may be processed by dehydration and critical‐point drying, or reembedment in hydrophilic substances. Tubulin is demonstrated in the mitotic spindles of dividing spermatogonia, manchettes, axonemes and centrioles of developing spermatids, and in the Sertoli cell cytoplasm; actin localization is demonstrated in the myoid cells of the tunica propria, and smooth muscle cells of arterioles in the interstitial tissue. The results demonstrate the applicability and versatility of PEG embedding for immunocytochemistry.
Human B‐like lymphoblastoid cell lines obtained by long‐term culture of normal spleen leukocytes
Authors: Lombard Y. , Hartmann D. , Coupin G. , Benezra R. , Poindron P.
Published: February 2012

B‐like lymphoblastoid cell lines were obtained by long‐term culture of human spleen leukocytes in RPMI 1640 medium containing human plasma fraction instead of whole foetal calf serum. These cell lines, which did not form E‐rosettes had membrane immunoglobulins, and expressed Epstein‐Barr virus antigens. Most synthesized intracytoplasmic immunoglobulins and were shown to be diploid and to remain so after subcultures. All produced interferon upon induction with Sendai virus.
A family of small nucleoplasmic RNAs with common structural features
Authors: Jacob M. , Lazar E. , Haendler B. , Gallinaro H. , Krol A. , Branlant C.
Published: February 2012

The four small nucleoplasmic RNAs designated as U1, U2, U4 and U5 RNA have a common structural domain or domain A. It is characterized by the presence of consensus sequence Pu‐A‐(U)5‐G‐Pup in a free single‐stranded region and of the sequence Py‐N‐Py‐Gp in the top loop of a hairpin located at the 3′ end of the free region. Domain A is likely to be involved in a function common to the four small RNAs. Other domains possibly involved in the specific function of U1 and U5 RNAs are also presented. Several molecular forms of a same U RNA may be found in a same cellular type. These variant U RNAs are particularly numerous for U5 RNA. The possible origin of such new molecular forms is discussed in relation to multigene families for U RNAs. U1, U2, U4 and U5 RNAs are capped (with trimethylguanosine) and the consensus sequence for their 6 first nucleotides is A‐(Py)5p. Thus, their 5′ end resembles that of premessenger RNA, also capped (with monomethylguanosine) and bearing A‐(Py)5p. Both classes of RNA are synthesized by RNA polymerase B, but the presence of a “TATA box” upstream of the capsite has not yet been demonstrated for U RNA genes. U1, U2, U4 and U5 RNAs bear a sequence C‐Py‐Pu at their 3′ end or very close to it. This trinucleotide might be part of a site of post‐transcriptional cleavage of U RNA precursors.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Effects of an extract of human brain containing growth factor activity on the proliferation of human vascular endothelial cells in primary culture
Authors: Klein‐Soyer C. , Stierle A. , Bouderbala B. , Cazenave J. P.
Published: February 2012

Lesions of vascular human EC play an important role in the development of thrombi and atherosclerosis. The factors which control the repair of vascular lesions are not well known. In addition, they are difficult to study because vascular EC from large vessels are fastidious cells to grow in tissue culture. We have investigated some of the factors that may be important in human umbilical vein EC growth in primary culture. Because of reported species differences in EC culture, we have decided to culture human EC only in the presence of biological culture reagents of human origin. Human umbilical vein EC, at low seed density, can be grown to confluency on a human FN matrix or on human ECM providing the medium is supplemented with a high concentration (30%) of human serum. The optimal proliferation of EC (even when seeded at clonal density) is obtained if HBE is added. HBE cannot completely replace serum, but EC proliferate to a similar extent whether they are grown on FN or on ECM in the presence of 30% human serum of 10% human serum plus HBE. Thus, HBE contains a growth factor activity for human EC which stimulates cell growth and DNA replication. Further work is needed to purify HBE and to compare it to other endothelial cell growth factors isolated from bovine brain and bovine eye.
MP26 in the bovine lens: a post‐embedding immunocytochemical study
Authors: Vallon O. , Dunia I. , Favard‐Sereno C. , Hoebeke J. , Benedetti E. L.
Published: February 2012

Gold immunolabeling of bovine lens tissue embedded in Lowicryl K4M, using a polyclonal antibody specific for a major component of lens fiber plasma membrane of 26 K molecular weight, shows that this constituent is absent from the epithelial cell plasma membrane and associated only with the junctional and non‐junctional domains of the lens fiber plasma membrane.
The compaction pattern of the chromatin of trypanosomes
Authors: Hecker H. , Gander E. S.
Published: February 2012

Protozoa of the family Trypanosomatidae are pathogenic agents of human and animal diseases. Fine structure, compaction pattern, and histone content of the soluble chromatin were investigated in procyclic forms of Trypanosoma cruzi (Chagas disease, S. America) and T. brucei brucei (Nagana disease, Africa) in comparison with rat liver chromatin. At low ionic strength chromatin was present as nucleosome filaments. Condensation into compact fibers (solenoid) was complete for rat chromatin at 100 mM salt concentration while chromatin of T. cruzi showed less condensation (tangle formation), and that of T.b. brucei did barely condense under identical experimental conditions. In general, the nucleosomes of trypanosomes, especially T.b. brucei, seemed to be less regularly arranged than those of the higher eukaryote. Addition of histone H1‐containing fractions of rat liver chromatin increased the compaction of T. cruzi chromatin but had no influence on T.b. brucei chromatin. SDS‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed histone H1 and the 4 core histones in rat liver chromatin. Neither in T. cruzi nor T.b. brucei were proteins identical to rat histone H1 present. Differences existed also in molecular weight of core histones between rat and trypanosomes, as well as between T. cruzi and T.b. brucei. These differences might explain species‐specific differences in the fine structural organization and compaction pattern of the chromatin of the rat, T. cruzi, and T.b. brucei.
The mitoribosomes
Authors: Curgy J. J.
Published: February 2012

So great an interest in numerous laboratories toward the understanding of the mitoribosome structures and functions comes from at least the two following considerations: a) in the field of the biogenesis of mitochondria, the mitoribosome is a biological key structure, on which synthesis of fundamental mitochondrial elements depends; b) from a phylogenetic point of view questions about the ancestral origin of mitochondrial genomes remain open. Mitoribosomes resemble other ribosomes in their fundamental properties. They are constituted of two subunits containing RNA and proteins. They function according to the same overall mechanism, using initiator tRNA, aminoacyl‐tRNA and factors for initiation and elongation to translate mRNA. Mitoribosomes have been observed in situ and their composition has been established by ultrastructural cytochemistry. They are preferentially associated with the inner mitochondrial membrane and are occasionally aligned in “mitopolysomes”. Mitoribosomes have been isolated, obtained whole or dissociated into subunits. Frequently, fine morphological details permit to distinguish the mitoribosomes from their cytoplasmic counterparts. The diversity found in various physico‐chemical properties (S coefficient, molecular weight, buoyant density, RNA/protein ratio, RNA and protein characteristics) of mitoribosomes indicates that this class of ribosomes is the more heterogeneous. Small and large mrRNA from various organisms showed frequent homologies and conserved basic secondary structures (these similarities depending on the organism) in defined RNA regions, when compared with their counterpart molecules in other ribosomes from various origins. These regions are probably involved in the maintenance of fundamental active conformation. Post‐transcriptional oligoadenylation of 3′‐termini of the small and large mrRNA in mammals appears to be a general phenomenon. Methylated nucleotides in large and small mrRNA are rare, but their presence seems to constitute an important feature, for they have been phylogenetically conserved and are located in regions of the mrRNA molecules which show a high degree of primary sequence conservation. One unique feature of the mitoribosomes of animal and fungal cells is the absence of 5 S and 5.8 S rRNA molecules. But a well‐established exception to the general absence of 5 S RNA is the presence of this RNA molecule in mitoribosomes extracted from higher plants.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Cytochemical localization of acid phosphatase and trimetaphosphatase activities in Kurloff cells
Authors: Tiffon Y. , Buat M. L. , Landemore G. , Izard J.
Published: February 2012

After stimulation of guinea pigs with estradiol to increase their Kurloff cell number, spleen imprints were prepared in order to detect non‐specific acid phosphatase (AcPase) activity by light microscopic cytochemistry using naphthol AS‐BI phosphate as substrate and pararosanilin or fast garnet GBC as coupler. For ultracytochemistry, Kurloff cells were prepared from spleens by filtration through a homogeneizer screen followed by repeated centrifugation. AcPase and trimetaphosphatase activities were tested using beta‐glycerophosphate, cytidine‐5′‐monophosphate and inorganic trimetaphosphate as substrates. Significant enzymatic activities were demonstrated with all the substrates used in the cytoplasmic inclusion body of the Kurloff cells.
Evidence for selective transport of two brush‐border glycoproteins from endoplasmic reticulum to Golgi complex in rabbit enterocytes
Authors: Gorvel J. P. , Massey D. , Rigal A. , Maroux S.
Published: February 2012

In vivo pulse‐chase labeling of rabbit jejunum loops was used in conjunction with subcellular fractionation and quantitative immunoprecipitation to compare the intracellular transport kinetics of aminopeptidase with that of a 140 kDa brush‐border antigen not belonging to the hydrolase class. As judged by the maturation kinetics of Asn‐linked glycans, these glycoproteins were found to be transported from the endoplasmic reticulum into the Golgi apparatus at different rates (t1/2 = 25–50 min). The transport from the Golgi complex to the brush‐border was rapid and seemed to occur at the same rate for both glycoproteins. In keeping with these kinetic data, the steady‐state levels of aminopeptidase and the 140 kDa antigen in the Golgi complex were low, although that of aminopeptidase was significantly higher.
Uptake and release of calcium by isolated egg cortices of the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus
Authors: Payan P. , Girard J. P. , Sardet C. , Whitaker M. , Zimmerberg J.
Published: February 2012

Isolated cortices from sea urchin eggs accumulate calcium in a non‐mitochondrial store at a rate dependent on ATP and enhanced by oxalate. Calcium efflux is increased by ionomycin and by A23187 which has been used as a parthenogenetic agent, but not by weak base (NH4Cl). Accumulated calcium is partially released by 1,4,5 inositol triphosphate.
Redistribution of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors on human fibroblasts induced by regulatory ligands
Authors: Raposo G. , Dunia I. , Marullo S. , André C. , Guillet J. G. , Strosberg A. D. , Benedetti E. L. , Hoebeke J.
Published: February 2012

Distribution of the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor on human fibroblasts was determined by immunofluorescence and immunoperoxidase staining using the anti‐muscarinic receptor antibody M‐35b. The receptor appeared to be randomly distributed on the cell surface in 1‐ or 2‐day nonconfluent cultures. Brief exposure to 0.1 mM carbamylcholine (15 min to 1 hr) induced receptor accumulation in several restricted domains of the cell surface. This process was associated with sequestration into uncoated vesicles. Random receptor distribution was restored by incubation in ligand‐free medium for 4 hr after carbamylcholine treatment, and vesicular profiles were no longer detectable. When incubation with the agonist was prolonged (3 hr at 37 degrees C), endocytotic ‘smooth vesicles’ fused and formed multivesicular structures presumably implicated in receptor down‐regulation. Conversely, when nonconfluent cells were exposed to the muscarinic antagonist atropine, receptor redistribution was revealed, leading to the formation of clusters where receptor accumulated. Muscarinic receptor redistribution induced by atropine therefore does not involve the sequestration process seen in carbamylcholine‐treated cells.
Dihydrocytochalasin B promotes adipose conversion of 3T3 cells
Authors: Pairault J. , Lasnier F.
Published: February 2012

Differentiation of preadipose 3T3‐F442A cells into adipose cells is accelerated by the addition of dihydrocytochalasin B. The effect of the drug on 3T3‐C2 cells is more marked: these cells are practically unable to differentiate in the absence of H2CB but a long‐term exposure to the drug enables the cells to accumulate lipid droplets in medium supplemented with fetal calf serum and insulin. During their differentiation under these conditions the 3T3‐C2 cells develop markers typical of adipose cells: glycerophosphate dehydrogenase, ATP‐citrate lyase, fatty acid synthetase and glycerophosphate acyltransferase.
Calbindin‐D28K and the peptidergic neuroendocrine system in rat gut: an immunohistochemical study
Authors: Resibois Anne , Vienne Georges , Pochet Roland
Published: February 2012

Calbindin‐D28K was immunohistochemically localized in myenteric and submucosal plexuses throughout the rat intestine. Calbindin‐D28K immunoreactivity was found in about half of myenteric neurons and in more than 90% of submucosal neurons. Calbindin‐D28K was also observed in nerve processes running inside ganglia, muscle layers and lamina propria. No correlation could be established between the presence of calbindin‐D28K and the distribution of neuropeptides localized in this study (VIP, enkephalin, somatostatin and substance P). In addition, some endocrine‐like cells of the ileum were calbindin‐D28K‐positive. Half of these endocrine cells also contained neurotensin but none of the other neuropeptides investigated.
Occurrence and morphology of tumors induced in nude mice transplanted with chrysotile‐transformed rat pleural mesothelial cells
Authors: Fleury‐Feith J. , Nebut M. , Saint‐Étienne L. , Laurent P. , Pinchon M.C. , Kheuang L. , Renier A. , Jaurand M.C.
Published: February 2012

Rat pleural mesothelial cells treated in vitro with chrysotile fibers have been successfully transplanted into nude mice. Three cultures (1 untreated, 2 treated) were injected at passage 75; a fourth culture was obtained from a mesothelioma induced in rat by chrysotile fibers. Overall, tumors grew in each series, but the delay between cell injection and tumor formation was 22 wk with untreated cells whereas only 1 or 2 wk were needed with treated cells, and 1 wk with cells from in vivo‐induced mesothelioma. Pathological study by light and electron microscopy of tumors is reported here nd showed the mesothelial nature of the cells. Comparison between the ultrastructure of the injected cells and tumor cells indicated that the morphology of injected cells was retained in tumors even if the delay in tumor formation was long. These results suggest that this model is useful for investigating mesothelial cell transformation resulting from in vitro or in vivo exposure to certain carcinogens.
In vitro differentiated HT 29‐D4 clonal cell line generates leakproof and electrically active monolayers when cultured in porous‐bottom culture dishes
Authors: Fantini Jacques , Verrier Bernard , Marvaldi Jacques , Mauchamp Jean
Published: February 2012

HT 29‐D4 is a clonal cell line, derived from the human colon adenocarcinoma cell line HT 29, which can be induced to differentiate into enterocyte‐like cells by replacing glucose with galactose in the culture medium (Fantini et al. [1986], J. Cell Sci. 83, 235–249). Both undifferentiated and differentiated HT 29‐D4 cells have been successfully grown to confluency in Costar Transwell permeable chambers. Only HT 29‐D4 cells grown in glucose‐free, galactose‐containing medium were able to form leakproof monolayers, as demonstrated by their ability to prevent diffusion of serum proteins. These monolayers consist of highly polarized epithelial‐like cells with a well organized apical brush border.

Transepithelial electrical parameters have been measured under sterile conditions for both types of monolayer. Only HT 29‐D4 monolayers cultured in glucose‐free, galactose‐containing medium were electrically active, with a transepithelial resistance R = 172 ± 46 Ω·cm2, a potential difference PD = 0.35 ± 0.05 mV, apical negative and a short‐circuit current Isc = 2.0 ± 0.4 μA·cm −2. Apical addition of amphotericin B induced a rapid and considerable increase in Isa and PD, which was abolished by basal ouabain.

In contrast, HT 29‐D4 cells grown in glucose‐containing medium did not generate any potential difference (PD = 0 mV) and their resistance was very low (R = 34.1 ± 0.9 Ω·cm2).

It is concluded from these studies that HT 29‐D4 cells grown in glucose‐free, galactose‐containing medium acquire functional characteristics of epithelia, compared to HT 29‐D4 cells grown in glucose‐containing medium. This unique clonal model system would be of a great interest in studies focused on the mehanisms involved in the establishment of an electrically active epithelial monolayer.
Vasopressin‐induced transfer via light vesicles of receptors and water channels from basolateral to apical membrane of toad bladder
Authors: Eggena Patrick , Chien‐Ling MA
Published: February 2012

Toad bladder epithelial cells were homogenized and fractionated by Percoll density‐gradient centrifugation. Binding of tritium‐labeled vasopressin ([3H]AVP) was measured in surface membranes (SM), microsomes (M), and a 100,000 g (60‐min) micrsomal supernatant fraction (S). More than two‐thirds of the total receptors were in S. Receptors in SM — but not in S — were tightly coupled to G‐protein as suggested by inhibition of [3H]AVP binding by GTP. GTP‐sensitivity of [3H]AVP binding was not altered by vasotocin (AVT) stimulation, although the distribution of receptors shifted from SM to S.

Intact bladders, exposed on the serosal side to 1‐desamino, 7‐lysine‐(4‐azidobenzoyl), 8‐arginine vasotocin (d7‐N3‐AVT) in the presence of UV light, exhibited a persistent hydroosmotic response compared to controls stimulated with photoaffinity analog in the dark. Cell fractions from the irradiated bladders showed a reduction in [3H]AVP binding in SM and S.

Intact bladders, exposed on the mucosal side to d7‐N3‐AVT in the presence of UV light (while stimulated from the serosal side with AVP) exhibited a decrease in [3H]AVP binding in SM compared to controls without d7‐N3‐AVT.

These findings suggest the following working hypothesis for the hydroosmotic action of vasopressin: (1) Vasopressin binds to receptors at the basolateral membrane, which is water‐permeable in the unstimulated state; (2) The hormone‐receptor complex is endocytosed and, together with other components of the basolateral membrane containing “water channels”, appears in “light vesicles”; (3) These light vesicles (and/or similar vesicles in a cytoplasmic reservoir) move to the apical membrane where they fuse with the water‐impermeable apical membrane and thereby render the rate‐limiting barrier permeable to water.
Exocytotic events unrelated to regulation of water permeability in amphibian tight epithelia: effects of oxytocin, PMA and insulin on membrane capacitance, water and Na+ transport
Authors: Erlij David , Aelvoet Isabelle , Van Driessche Willy
Published: February 2012

We measured the effects of oxytocin on capacitance and hydroosmotic water flow in the urinary bladder of the toad Bufo marinus and the skins of Rana pipiens and Rana temporaria. Oxytocin increased capacitance in all these tissues but stimulated hydroosmotic water flow only in the urinary bladder. We also measured the effects of oxytocin and PMA on the capacitance and hydroosmotic water flow of the toad urinary bladder. Both agents produced increases in membrane capacitance that were additive, however, PMA produced a stimulation of water flow that was only a fraction of that caused by oxytocin. Comparison of the effects of PMA and insulin in toad urinary bladder showed that in contrast with PMA, insulin did not increase membrane capacitance in this tissue. Moreover, insulin stimulated Isc in the urinary bladder while PMA produced an inhibition of variable magnitude. These results suggest that: (1) oxytocin can promote the fusion with the apical membrane of cytoplasmic membranes with or without water channels; (2) oxytocin and PMA stimulate the fusion with the apical membrane of cytoplasmic membranes originating in different pools; membranes in each pool have different water permeabilities and their insertion is controlled by different signals; (3) PMA and insulin act through different mechanisms in the toad urinary bladder.
76 and 14 kDa polypeptides, two major components released from amphibian urinary bladder epithelium. Localization and potential role
Authors: Dassouli A. , Gobin R. , Grossetete J. , Rouchon M. , Ripoche P. , Chevalier J.
Published: February 2012

Several experimental conditions such as antidiuretic hormone (ADH) challenge, apical treatment with phorbol myristate acetate (PMA), and mechanical stretching of the tissue are known to increase the insertion of intramembrane particle aggregates and/or granule exocytosis at the apical border of epithelial cells of amphibian urinary bladders. A constant release of 2 peptides of 76 and 14 kDa apparent molecular mass, respectively, was associated with these treatments. The localization of these 2 polypeptides was assessed by immunofluorescence and electron microscopy immunocytochemistry using fluorescent, peroxidase, and colloidal gold probes. The 76 kDa polypeptide appeared to be associated with the cell coat and with the granule content which is released at the apical cell surface. The 14 kDa peptide was also found in the cell coat, and postembedding immunocytochemistry indicates its presence in cytoplasmic subapical vesicles (aggrephores and/or granules).

The migration of these 76 and 14 kDa polypeptides in SDS‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis was modified neither by a treatment at 90°C, nor by the presence or absence of calcium in the medium. Treatment with EGTA did not modify the fluorescence emission of the two peptides and, consequently, they are probably not among the major calcium binding proteins.

The addition to the mucosal medium of the stretch extract or of antibodies raised against the 76 and 14 kDa peptides did not modify ADH‐induced water permeability. However, a significant decrease of the hydrosmotic response to ADH occurred in subsequent stimulation‐washout cycles when the anti‐14 kDa peptide antiserum was applied to the mucosal bath. When the bladders were incubated with a stretch extract, we observed a slight alteration of the short‐circuit current (Isc), an increase of the basal Na+ transport, and a decrease of the maximal Isc in response to ADH. The 76 kDa protein, released in the apical medium, could play a protective role in the cellular plasma membrane and could participate in the formation of the thick cell coat lining the apical membrane of the granular cells. The 14 kDa protein might be one of the proteins associated with the aggregates, but further studies will be necessary to clarify its exact role in the ADH‐induced permeability modifications observed in amphibian urinary bladders.
Decreased biosynthesis of actin and cellular fibronectin during adipose conversion of 3T3‐F442A cells. Reorganization of the cytoarchitecture and extracellular matrix fibronectin
Authors: Antras Jocelyne , Hilliou Françoise , Redziniak Gérard , Pairault Jacques
Published: February 2012

Differentiation of 3T3‐F442A cells was accompanied by changes in cell morphology, decreased synthesis and assembly of actin and fibronectin. The network of microfilament stress fibers detected with NBD‐phallacidin was altered during adipose conversion of 3T3‐F442A cells. Parallel to this, the disappearance of fibrillar bundles of extracellular matrix fibronectin was observed by immunofluorescence staining. The pericellular fibronectin content, detected by immunoblotting, strongly diminished during the differentiation process. An altered rate of biosynthesis of both proteins was also measured by [35S]‐methionine pulse‐labeling and immunoprecipitation. A 4–5‐fold decrease in cellular fibronectin synthesis was observed in adipocytes compared to control preadipocytes. Conversely, non‐differentiating 3T3‐C2 control cells did not reorganize either the cytoskeletal architecture or the extracellular matrix fibronectin in the resting state. These results suggest that the decreased rate of biosynthesis of cell‐associated fibronectin is correlated with that of actin. Moreover, both events can essentially be ascribed to differentiation.
Motility processes in Acantharia. II. A Ca2+ dependent system of contractile 2–4 nm filaments isolated from demembranated myonemes
Authors: Febvre Jean , Febvre‐Chevalier Colette
Published: February 2012

Myonemes of the acantharians are contractile ribbon‐like organelles. As previously shown, their motility is based on the coiling mechanism of double‐twisted 2–4 nm nonactin filaments [14]. Myonemes have been isolated and manipulated in vitro. After demembranation, the contraction takes place when the Ca2+ concentration is above 10−7 M, whereas relaxation occurs below this threshold concentration. The response to Ca2+ ions is an on/off mechanism. Both contraction and relaxation can be induced repeatedly without fatigue phenomena. Other divalent cations such as Sr2+, Ba2+, Ma2+, CO2+, and La3+ can replace Ca2+ in inducing contraction of the demembranated myonemes although with less efficiency. Contraction and relaxation are ATP‐independent and calmodulin is not involved in this in vitro motility process. The myoneme is a strongly resistant structure which is capable of contracting and relaxing under various extreme conditions which indicates very stable proteins and resistant functions.