bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From preen secretions to plumage: the chemical trajectory of blue petrels' Halobaena caerulea social scent
Authors: Mardon Jérôme , Saunders Sandra M. , Bonadonna Francesco
Published: February 2011

Petrel seabirds heavily rely on their olfactory sense and are thus appropriate models for the study of avian chemical communication. The uropygial secretions of blue petrels Halobaena caerulea, for instance, have been shown to encapsulate elaborate sociochemical information including species, gender and identity. Yet, it is the plumage, and not preening secretions per se, which acts as the final substrate of avian scents. Importantly, the chemical relationship between secretions from the uropygial gland, located at the dorsal base of the tail, and plumage lipids has been considered in only a handful of studies which reported large qualitative differences. The emission process of avian scents, and the possible participation of the uropygial gland in particular, are therefore not elucidated. In the present study, we examine the early chemical trajectory of blue petrels' social chemosignals by comparing secretion and feather samples using Gas‐Chromatography Mass‐Spectrometry (GC/MS) and recently developed multivariate statistics. Our results indicate that (1) 85% of the feather lipids come from the uropygial secretions, (2) chemical differentiation between secretions and feather lipids includes qualitative and quantitative variations, which both have interesting implications for scent production, (3) the sociochemical information contained within the secretions (i.e. a sex‐specific signal and individual chemical signatures) are present in very conserved forms on the plumage. In the light of these results, it is apparent that the uropygial gland plays a critical role for chemical communication in petrels and possibly other avian groups.
Melanin‐based coloration is related to parasite intensity and cellular immune response in an urban free living bird: the feral pigeonColumba livia
Authors: Jacquin Lisa , Lenouvel P , Haussy C , Ducatez S , Gasparini J
Published: February 2011

Melanin‐based coloration is widespread among vertebrates, but the adaptive function of this trait remains poorly known. Recently, it has been shown that differently coloured individuals have different abilities to cope with parasites. This correlation between melanin‐based coloration and immunity could be explained by the pleiotropic effects of genes coding for melanin pigmentation on the immune system (‘genetic link’ hypothesis) but also because differently coloured individuals may exploit alternative habitats varying in parasite exposure, which leads to different development of the immune function (‘exposure’ hypothesis). As feral pigeonsColumba liviaare genetically polymorphic with respect to melanic coloration, they constitute an ideal model system to address such hypotheses. In this study, we showed that darker melanic individuals had a lower endoparasite intensity (reflecting host susceptibility) and had a greater cellular immune response to PHA injection than paler ones, whereas parasite prevalence (reflecting exposure to vectors) was similar between colorations. These results provide a correlative support of the ‘genetic link’ hypothesis: differently coloured individuals might be similarly exposed to parasites but darker ones might have a better ability to control the infection. This suggests that parasitism could play a crucial role in the maintenance of colour polymorphism in natural populations, which opens the interesting possibility that differently coloured individuals could be adapted to alternative environments varying in parasite diversity and exposure.
Blue, not UV, plumage color is important in satin bowerbird Ptilonorhynchus violaceus display
Authors: Savard Jean‐François , Keagy Jason , Borgia Gerald
Published: February 2011

Several studies have suggested that peak plumage reflectance in birds matches color preferences used in mate choice. We tested this hypothesis in adult satin bowerbird males that have a short‐wavelength saturated blue‐black plumage with a peak reflectance in the UV. We found that the chroma of the blue (405–480 nm), but not the peak reflecting UV (320–400 nm) portion of the male plumage spectrum was significantly correlated with male mating success. A plot of correlation coefficients between male mating success and plumage saturation showed a well‐defined peak in the blue. This suggests that: 1) blue plumage coloration is more important in mate choice than UV or other colors, and 2) that there is a mismatch between the peak reflectance of the plumage of male satin bowerbirds and the range of plumage wavelengths that are correlated with male mating success. This indicates that it is not safe to infer a role of UV or other colors in mate choice simply because of a peak in plumage reflectance.
Evidence for olfactory learning in procellariiform seabird chicks
Authors: Cunningham Gregory B. , Nevitt Gabrielle A.
Published: February 2011

Burrow nesting procellariiform seabirds use olfactory cues for both foraging and nest recognition. As chicks, burrow nesters develop in the dark, but are exposed to both prey‐related and individual‐specific scents through contact with their parents. This exposure suggests that chicks may have the opportunity to learn odours while still in the nest. In this study, we examined whether exposure to odourants during development might influence olfactory search behaviour expressed later in life. To test this idea, we exposed eggs of thin‐billed prions Pachyptila belcheri to a rosy‐scented novel odour (phenyl ethyl alcohol, PEA) or a control (water) just before hatching; chicks were then tested with these odours in a simple wind tunnel. Prior to fledging, subjects who had received pre‐exposure to PEA displayed head sweeps nearly twice as frequently as control birds did when presented with PEA. This study demonstrates that under natural rearing conditions, procellariiforms learn odour characteristics of their rearing environment in the nest.
Pygmy owl Glaucidium passerinum and the usage of ultraviolet cues of prey
Authors: Härmä Oskari , Kareksela Santtu , Siitari Heli , Suhonen Jukka
Published: February 2011

Birds rely mainly on their vision when foraging. Many diurnal raptors use ultraviolet (UV) vision and ultraviolet‐reflecting vole scent marks to find suitable hunting areas, whereas nocturnal owls seem to lack this ability. We studied if the diurnal pygmy owl Glaucidium passerinum that uses voles and birds as its food can detect vole scent marks using UV‐vision. We conducted a laboratory experiment with eleven owls. Each individual owl had four options to choose from: (1) scent marks with UV light, (2) scent marks without UV light, (3) clean arena with UV light and (4) clean arena without UV light. The owls scanned the scent mark arena more often in the presence of UV light than other arenas. However, owls did not spend more time above the UV arena. We suggest that pygmy owls can detect near UV and use UV to gain information about prey like other diurnal raptors.
Occurrence of extra‐pair paternity is connected to social male's MHC‐variability in the scarlet rosefinch Carpodacus erythrinus
Authors: Promerová Marta , Vinkler Michal , Bryja Josef , Poláková Radka , Schnitzer Jan , Munclinger Pavel , Albrecht Tomáš
Published: February 2011

Genes of the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) represent an essential component of the vertebrate acquired immune system. In the last decades, the role of MHC genes in mate choice has been subject of particular scientific interest. However, results of studies dealing with this topic in different species are equivocal and mechanisms conducting MHC‐based mate choice are still puzzling. We investigated the impact of MHC class I variability on within‐pair and extra‐pair fertilisation success in a wild population of a socially monogamous passerine bird with considerable rates of extra‐pair paternity, the scarlet rosefinch Carpodacus erythrinus. We found some support for the ‘good‐genes‐as‐heterozygosity model’, as social males of high MHC‐heterozygosity were cheated by their females less frequently than less MHC‐heterozygous males. However, cuckolding males were not more MHC‐heterozygous than the cheated social males, nor were extra‐pair young more MHC‐heterozygous than within‐pair young. We did not find any evidence for mating preferences according to the complementarity model.
Wrens on the edge: feeders predict Carolina wren Thryothorus ludovicianus abundance at the northern edge of their range
Authors: Job Jacob , Bednekoff Peter A.
Published: February 2011

The marked range shifts seen with global warming suggest that ranges are limited by temperature. Other findings, however, suggest winter survival is directly tied to food availability. We studied Carolina wrens Thryothorus ludovicianus at the northern edge of their range to understand the roles of temperature and food in limiting this species. We established 21 transects over 3 habitats (residential, city park, and rural) with varying degrees of human influence on temperature and food supply. The three habitat types showed variations in wren density, temperature, and feeder presence. While wren densities showed similar seasonal patterns in all habitats, significantly higher densities of birds were observed in the city park and residential habitats. Post‐winter densities of Carolina wrens were predicted by the presence of bird feeders, and not by January mean minimum temperatures. Our findings suggest the winter range limits for endotherms is more directly related to food supply, and only indirectly related to temperature. Therefore supplemental feeding and other changes in food supply may modify the range shifts predicted from temperature changes alone.
Loss of Wnt‐5α is associated with an invasive phenotype of extramammary Paget's disease
Authors: Xie Lining , Hayashida Sayaka , Furue Masutaka
Published: February 2011

Background: The Wnt (wingless‐type MMTV integration site) gene family encodes secretory signaling molecules that play a diverse biological role in the regulation of normal and pathological processes, including cell growth, differentiation and oncogenesis. However, the role of Wnt genes in the development of extramammary Paget's disease remains unknown.

Objective: To investigate the expression of Wnt‐1, Wnt‐5α and their downstream genes, β‐catenin and c‐Myc, in extramammary Paget's disease.

Methods: Paraffin‐embedded specimens of extramammary Paget's disease (33 specimens from 22 patients), including 7 specimens with dermal invasion and 4 with lymph node metastasis, were examined immunohistochemically for Wnt‐1, Wnt‐5α, β‐catenin and c‐Myc. Seven normal genital skin specimens served as controls.

Results: The expression levels of Wnt‐1 and β‐catenin in extramammary Paget's disease were significantly correlated with each other; however, their expression levels in the invasive extramammary Paget's disease were similar to those of wholly intraepithelial extramammary Paget's disease. Nuclear expression of c‐Myc was significantly higher in the invasive extramammary Paget's disease in comparison with intraepithelial extramammary Paget's disease. Interestingly, the expression of Wnt‐5α in invasive extramammary Paget's disease was significantly downregulated compared to wholly intraepithelial extramammary Paget's disease.

Conclusion: The Wnt‐1/β‐catenin pathway may not play an important role in the progression of extramammary Paget's disease. The loss of Wnt‐5α, however, may play a role in the invasiveness of extramammary Paget's disease.

Xie L, Hayashida S, Furue M. Loss of Wnt‐5α is associated with an invasive phenotype of extramammary Paget's disease.
Process‐based functions for seed retention on animals: a test of improved descriptions of dispersal using multiple data sets
Authors: Bullock James M. , Galsworthy Stephen J. , Manzano Pablo , Poschlod Peter , Eichberg Carsten , Walker Katherine , Wichmann Matthias C.
Published: February 2011

Studies of external seed transport on animals usually assume that the probability of detachment is constant, so that seed retention should show a simple exponential relationship with time. This assumption has not been tested explicitly, and may lead to inaccurate representation of long distance seed dispersal by animals. We test the assumption by comparing the fit to empirical data of simple, two‐parameter functions. Fifty‐two data sets were obtained from five published studies, describing seed retention of 32 plant species on sheep, cattle, deer, goats and mice. Model selection suggested a simple exponential function was adequate for data sets in which seed retention was followed for short periods ( <48 h). The data gathered over longer periods (49–219 days) were best described by the power exponential function, a form of the stretched exponential which allows a changing dropping rate. In these cases the power exponential showed that seed dropping rate decreased with time, suggesting that seeds vary in attachment, with some seeds becoming deeply buried or wound up in the animal's coat. Comparison of fitted parameters across all the data sets also confirmed that seeds with adhesive structures have lower dropping rates than those without. We conclude that the seed dropping rate often changes with time during external transport on animals and that the power exponential is an effective function to describe this change. We advise that, to analyse seed dropping rates adequately, retention should be measured over reasonable time periods – until most seeds are dropped – and both the simple and power exponential functions should be fitted to the resulting data. To increase its utility, we provide functions describing the seed dropping rate and the dispersal kernel resulting from the power exponential relationship.
All size classes of soil fauna and litter quality control the acceleration of litter decay in its home environment
Authors: Milcu Alexandru , Manning Pete
Published: February 2011

There is increasing evidence that litter decomposition is faster beneath the plant species it was derived from, an effect called home‐field advantage (HFA). Adaptation of soil biota to decompose the litter that they encounter most often has been proposed as the main mechanism to explain HFA. However, there is little direct evidence supporting this assumption and the contribution of different decomposer groups to the HFA is unknown. Furthermore, the large observed variation in the strength of the HFA may be linked to litter quality, with increasing HFA for more recalcitrant substrates. To test the relationship between HFA, litter quality and soil fauna, we performed a field litter bag experiment, with different mesh sizes and reciprocal litter transplants, across a successional gradient varying in litter quality inputs and soil fauna composition. The results show that the HFA was stronger in sites dominated by more recalcitrant litter inputs and provide evidence that a range of soil fauna size classes contribute to this effect. Our findings help explain the lack of HFA in ecosystems with simple litters and in studies where experimental artefacts (e.g. fine mesh sizes) affect the contribution from certain classes of soil fauna.
Evolutionary and organismic constraints on the relationship between spacer length and environmental conditions in clonal plants
Authors: Klimešová Jitka , Doležal Jiří , Sammul Marek
Published: February 2011

The rate of lateral spread of clonal plants is considered a plastic trait that responds directly to environmental conditions. However, this response is likely constrained by evolutionary history and other species attributes. Here we ask how the relationships between lateral spread and the distribution of herbaceous plant species in different environments are influenced by the type of spacer (epigeogenous versus hypogeogenous rhizome), its persistence (integrator versus splitter), and the height and phylogeny of the plant. Analysis of spacer length of 367 species from temperate to arctic Europe revealed that other plant characteristics modulate the relationship between spacer length and environmental conditions. While plants with epigeogenous rhizomes, which have usually shorter spacers than hypogeogenous rhizomes, were associated with illuminated habitats, plants with hypogeogenous rhizomes were associated with warm habitats. These relationships were also shown within the specific rhizome type, as within the group of species with epigeogenous rhizomes, those having short spacers were associated with more light. The trend toward long spacers in warm environment was detected within both epigeogenous and hypogeogenous rhizome bearing species. Splitters were found to be associated with wet, nutrient rich habitats irrespective of rhizome type. When plant height was accounted for by using the ratio of spacer length to plant height (L:H) instead of absolute spacer length, no relationship with environmental variables was found until phylogenetic relationships among the species were taken into account. This implies that overall variability in L:H ratio in the dataset masked trends common for different taxonomic groups. Future comparative studies relating particular clonal growth forms or individual traits to environmental conditions should consider the constraints arising from other growth characteristics and evolutionary history of the subject species.
Abnormal melatonin receptor 1B expression in osteoblasts from girls with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
Authors: Man Gene Chi‐Wai , Wong Jack Ho , Wang William Wei‐Jun , Sun Guang‐Quan , Yeung Benson Hiu‐Yan , Ng Tzi‐Bun , Lee Simon Kwong‐Man , Ng Bobby Kin‐Wah , Qiu Yong , Cheng Jack Chun‐Yiu
Published: February 2011

Abstract:  Melatonin signaling dysfunction has been associated with the etiology of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Genetic analysis has also associated the occurrence of AIS with the MT2 gene. Thus, we determined whether there is abnormality in the protein expression of melatonin receptors (MT) in AIS osteoblasts. In this study, we recruited 11 girls with severe AIS and eight normal subjects for intraoperative bone biopsies. MT1 and MT2 receptor protein expressions in the isolated osteoblasts were detected. Also, cell proliferation assay using different melatonin concentrations (0, 10−9, 10−5, 10−4 m) was carried out. The results showed that both MT1 and MT2 receptors are expressed in osteoblasts of the controls. While MT1 receptors were expressed in osteoblasts of all AIS subjects, osteoblasts of only 7 of 11 AIS showed expression of MT2 receptors. Melatonin stimulated control osteoblasts to proliferate. However, proliferation of AIS osteoblasts without expression of MT2 receptor, after treatment with melatonin, was minimal when compared with control and AIS osteoblasts with MT2 receptor expression. The proliferation of AIS osteoblasts with MT2 receptor was greater than those without. This is the first report demonstrating a difference between AIS and normal osteoblasts in the protein expression of MT2 receptor. The results suggest that there is a possible functional effect of MT2 receptor on osteoblast proliferation. AIS osteoblasts without expression of MT2 receptor showed the lowest percentage of viable cells after melatonin treatment. This possibly indicates the modulating role of melatonin through MT2 receptor on the proliferation of osteoblasts.
Mapping Insulin/GLUT4 Circuitry
Authors: Rowland Alexander F. , Fazakerley Daniel J. , James David E.
Published: February 2011

One of the most important metabolic actions of insulin is catalysing glucose uptake into skeletal muscle and adipose tissue. This is accomplished via activation of the phosphatidylinositol‐3‐kinase/Akt signalling pathway and subsequent translocation of GLUT4 from intracellular storage vesicles to the plasma membrane. As such, this represents an ideal system for studying the convergence of signal transduction and protein trafficking. The GLUT4 translocation process is complex, but can be dissected into at least four discrete trafficking steps. This raises the question as to which of these is the major regulated step in insulin‐stimulated GLUT4 translocation. Numerous molecules have been reported to regulate GLUT4 trafficking. However, with the exception of TBC1D4, the molecular details of these distal signalling arms of the insulin signalling network and how they modify distinct steps of GLUT4 trafficking have not been established. We discuss the need to adopt a more global approach to expand and deepen our understanding of the molecular processes underpinning this system. Strategies that facilitate the generation of detailed models of the entire insulin signalling network will enable us to identify the critical nodes that control GLUT4 traffic and decipher emergent properties of the system that are not currently apparent.
Uridine correlates with the concentration of fructosamine and HbA1c in children with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Dudzinska W
Published: February 2011

Aim:  Treating uridine as a product of UTP degradation and hypoxanthine as a degradation product of ATP, we assessed the concentration of uridine and hypoxanthine in the blood of children with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes. We also sought to define the relationship between indicators of the degree of metabolic control of diabetes (fructosamine, HbA1c) and the concentration of the tested catabolites.

Methods:  This study was carried out on 33 children aged 12.26 ± 4.49 with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes during their first hospitalization. The concentration of uridine and hypoxanthine was determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

Results:  The results showed significantly elevated levels of hypoxanthine and uridine in the blood. We further show that blood uridine level is associated with purine metabolism and hyperglycaemia, and we demonstrate a significant positive correlation between the concentration of uridine and (i) the percentage of HbA1c and (ii) fructosamine levels, which indicate the role of hyperglycaemia in the pathogenesis of pyrimidine nucleotide metabolism in type 1 diabetes prior to diagnosis.

Conclusion:  The results confirm the existence of a relationship between the degree of metabolic control of diabetes and pyrimidine metabolism. Presumably, the analysis of uridine could be used as an adjunct marker of the severity of diabetic complications in newly diagnosed patients.
Nonbacterial osteitis in children: data of a German Incidence Surveillance Study
Authors: Jansson Annette F , Grote Veit ,   for the ESPED Study Group
Published: February 2011

Aim:  To analyse the incidence, clinical presentation, laboratory and radiological findings, as well as diagnostic approaches and therapeutic procedures in paediatric patients suffering from nonbacterial osteitis.

Methods:  A nationwide incidence survey was conducted from 2006 to 2008 through monthly contacts with all German paediatric and paediatric–orthopaedic hospitals. Children with osteomyelitic bone lesions newly diagnosed as suffering from nonbacterial osteitis were identified. Cases were assessed using a questionnaire to be filled in by the treating physician containing information on time since first symptoms, associated diseases, diagnostic procedures, localization of lesions, complications, laboratory and histological results, and treatment.

Results:  Nonbacterial osteitis was newly reported in 148 children. The annual incidence was estimated at 0.4 per 100 000 children. Mean manifestation age was 11.4 years (SD 3.2); 99 children (67%) were girls. Palmoplantar pustulosis was observed in 8 (6%). Unifocal manifestations were seen in 50 (34%) patients. Of all patients with vertebral involvement (15%), 9% suffered from vertebral fractures. Bone biopsies were taken in 79 (53%) patients.

Conclusions:  Nonbacterial osteitis is an auto‐inflammatory disorder resulting in at least 60 new paediatric cases/year in Germany. Spinal lesions and complications are frequently observed, even at first diagnosis.
Acquired progressive hypotonia in infancy: consider compressive cervical myelopathy
Authors: Verbeek INE , Vollebregt A , Halbertsma FJ , van Lindert E , Andriessen P
Published: February 2011

This case report presents a rare cause of progressive hypotonia due to a congenital bony defect of the atlas in a 2‐month‐old girl. The patient was initially referred to the paediatric department with feeding problems. Within days after admission she developed progressive hypotonia and showed decreased reflexes of the upper extremities. Magnetic resonance imaging showed compressive myelopathy at the level of vertebra C1. After laminectomy of the C1‐vertebra the neurological symptoms resolved.

Conclusion:  Most anomalies of the vertebras are asymptomatic. Only symptomatic anomalies with compression and neurological symptoms need surgery.
Asymptomatic critical hypoglycaemia: a dangerous presentation of glycogen storage disease type Ib in infancy
Authors: Bock Dirk E , Rupar Charles A , Prasad Chitra
Published: February 2011

We report the case of a 3‐month‐old boy who presented with a 3‐day history of respiratory tract infection and poor feeding. He was incidentally found to have profound hypoglycaemia, high‐anion‐gap lactic acidosis, ketonuria, hyperlipidemia, hepatomegaly, growth failure and neutropenia. Glycogen storage disease type Ib (GSD Ib), an autosomal recessive metabolic defect of the microsomal transporter glucose‐6‐phosphate‐translocase, was suspected and confirmed by genetic testing. Treatment consisted of initial intravenous glucose and fluids to correct his lactic acidosis, followed by a strict dietary protocol consisting of soy‐based infant formula enriched with glucose polymers from cornstarch and overnight gastrostomy feeds.

Conclusions:  GSD I should be considered in all young children presenting with hypoglycaemia and lactic acidosis. Presence of neutropenia further confirms GSD Ib. Even critical hypoglycaemia can be clinically unapparent in affected children.
Hypotonic versus isotonic maintenance fluids in critically ill children: a multicenter prospective randomized study
Authors: Rey Corsino , Los‐Arcos Marta , Hernández Arturo , Sánchez Amelia , Díaz Juan‐José , López‐Herce Jesús
Published: February 2011

Aim:  Study the influence of hypotonic (HT) and isotonic (IT) maintenance fluids in the incidence of dysnatraemias in critically ill children.

Methods:  Prospective, randomized study conducted in three paediatric intensive care units (PICU). One hundred and twenty‐five children requiring maintenance fluid therapy were included: 62 received HT fluids (50–70 mmol/L tonicity) and 63 IT fluids (156 mmol/L tonicity). Age, weight, cause of admission, sodium and fluid intake, and diuresis were collected. Blood electrolytes were measured on admission, 12 and 24 h later.

Results:  Blood sodium levels at 12 h were 133.7 ± 2.7 mmol/L in HT group vs. 136.8 ± 3.5 mmol/L in IT group (p = 0.001). Adjusted for age, weight and sodium level at PICU admission, the blood sodium values of patients receiving HT fluids decrease by 3.22 mmol/L (CI: 4.29/2.15)(p = 0.000). Adjusted for age, weight and hyponatraemia incidence at admission, patients receiving HT fluids increased the risk of hyponatraemia by 5.8‐fold (CI: 2.4–14.0) during the study period (p = 0.000).

Conclusions:  Hypotonic maintenance fluids increase the incidence of hyponatraemia because they decrease blood sodium levels in normonatraemic patients. IT maintenance fluids do not increase the incidence of dysnatraemias and should be considered as the standard maintenance fluids.
Elevated thyroid‐stimulating hormone level in a euthyroid neonate caused by macro thyrotropin–IgG complex
Authors: Rix Mariane , Laurberg Peter , Porzig Christina , Kristensen Søren Risom
Published: February 2011

Elevated thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) was discovered by routine neonatal screening in a newborn with no clinical symptoms. Thyroid function tests were repeated and confirmed a high TSH value but normal total thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). However, the mother also had elevated serum TSH with normal levels of T4 and T3. The results suggested a transmitted maternal interfering factor, and no treatment was started while further investigation was performed. Gel filtration chromatography of serum from both the infant and the mother showed a peak TSH with molecular mass consistent with a TSH–IgG complex (macro‐TSH). TSH in the infant decreased to a normal level within 8 months in accordance with a normal rate of elimination of maternal IgG, whereas the TSH level of the mother remained high.

Conclusion:  This case suggests that interfering macro‐TSH should be considered in a euthyroid neonate with elevated serum TSH and normal T4 and T3 levels to avoid unnecessary treatment.
Early‐onset pure absence epilepsy: a distinct epileptic syndrome
Authors: Verrotti Alberto , Agostinelli Sergio , Olivieri Cristina , Chiarelli Francesco , Curatolo Paolo
Published: February 2011

Early‐onset pure absence epilepsy has not yet considered in the International League Against Epilepsy classification, but several reports have supported its existence as a distinct epileptic syndrome primarily manifesting with typical absences in early childhood. This review summarizes the current understanding on this epilepsy.

Conclusions:  Early‐onset pure absence epilepsy is a distinct epilepsy characterized by absences starting from a few months to 4 years of age, normal early psychomotor development, good antiepileptic drug seizure control and normal intellectual outcome.
A rare cause of recurrent stroke in childhood: left atrial rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Serdaroglu Gul , Yilmaz Sanem , Ulger Zulal , Gökce Sule , Tekgul Hasan , Gokben Sarenur
Published: February 2011

We present a case of recurrent stroke secondary to cardiac rhabdomyosarcoma. The detected prothrombotic mutations at the first attack had seemed to be the main cause, but the echocardiography performed at the recurrence revealed the actual underlying cause of stroke.

Conclusion:  The aetiological investigation into childhood stroke should absolutely include echocardiography regardless of the presence of other risk factors.
Direct Esthetic Restorations Based on Translucency and Opacity of Composite Resins
Authors: VILLARROEL MILKO , FAHL NEWTON , DE SOUSA ANDREA MARIA , DE OLIVEIRA OSMIR BATISTA
Published: February 2011

Light dynamics is a relevant phenomenon with respect to esthetic restorations, as incorrect analysis of the optical behavior of natural dentition may lead to potential clinical failures. The nature of incident light plays a major role in determining the amount of light transmission or reflection, and how an object is perceived depends on the nature of the light source. Natural teeth demonstrate translucency, opalescence, and fluorescence, all of which must be replicated by restorative materials in order to achieve clinical success. Translucency is the intermediary between complete opacity and complete transparency, making its analysis highly subjective. In nature, the translucency of dental enamel varies from tooth to tooth, and from individual to individual. Therefore, four important factors must be considered when appraising translucency. Presence or absence of color, thickness of the enamel, degree of translucency, and surface texture are essential components when determining translucency. State‐of‐the‐art resin composites provide varying shades and opacities that deliver a more faithful reproduction of the chromaticity and translucency/opacity of enamel and dentin. This enables the attainment of individualized and customized composite restorations. The objective of this article is to provide a review of the phenomena of translucency and opacity in the natural dentition and composite resins, under the scope of optics, and to describe how to implement these concepts in the clinical setting.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Choosing composite resins, based on optical properties alone, in order to mimic the properties of natural tooth structures, does not necessarily provide a satisfactory esthetic outcome. In many instances, failure ensues from incorrect analysis of the optical behaviors of the natural dentition as well as the improper use of restorative materials. Therefore, it is necessary to implement a technique that enables a restorative material to be utilized to its full potential to correctly replicate the natural teeth.

(J Esthet Restor Dent 23:73–88, 2011)
Investigation into the durability of washed rice straw for equine bedding and the repetitive use of washing water
Authors: KUROSAWA Akira , ENDO Daisuke , IKEDA Shuhei , SUKEMORI Seizi
Published: February 2011

The present experiment investigated durability during the repetitive use of washed rice straw, as bedding material, and washing water as a model study. Residual nitrogen levels, elasticity, and water suction rates for washed rice straw‐adhered urea were measured. In addition, outflow levels of nitrogen and mineral ions (Na+, NO2‐ + NO3‐, SO42−, PO43−, Cl‐) for washing water were measured to determine durability. Nitrogen levels of rice straw significantly (P < 0.05) decreased after two washings. There was no significant change in elasticity of repetitively used rice straw. Suction rates of rice straw after the second and third washings increased significantly (P < 0.05) compared to the first time. With regard to the number of washings, the mineral ion outflow level in the washing water for nitrogen, Na+, NO2‐ + NO3‐ and PO43− after each washing was not significant. However, nitrogen outflow level tended to decrease after the third washing. SO4‐ and Cl‐ did significantly decrease (P < 0.05) with the number of washings. In this study, it was considered that rice straw and washing water could be used repetitively three times. Furthermore, in order to maintain effluent standards, washing water from the first washing needs to be processed in a septic tank.
Constant transmission of mitochondrial DNA in intergeneric cloned embryos reconstructed from swamp buffalo fibroblasts and bovine ooplasm
Authors: SRIRATTANA Kanokwan , MATSUKAWA Kazutsugu , AKAGI Satoshi , TASAI Mariko , TAGAMI Takahiro , NIRASAWA Keijiro , NAGAI Takashi , KANAI Yukio , PARNPAI Rangsun , TAKEDA Kumiko
Published: February 2011

Although interspecies/intergeneric somatic cell nuclear transfer (iSCNT) has been proposed as a tool to produce offspring of endangered species, conflict between donor nucleus and recipient cytoplasm in iSCNT embryos has been identified as an impediment to implementation for agricultural production. To investigate the nuclear–mitochondrial interactions on the developmental potential of iSCNT embryos, we analyzed the mtDNA copy numbers in iSCNT embryos reconstructed with water buffalo (swamp type) fibroblasts and bovine enucleated oocytes (buffalo iSCNT). As controls, SCNT embryos were derived from bovine fibroblasts (bovine SCNT). Buffalo iSCNT and bovine SCNT embryos showed similar rates of cleavage and development to the 8‐cell stage (P > 0.05). However, buffalo iSCNT embryos did not develop beyond the 16‐cell stage. Both bovine and buffalo mtDNA content in buffalo iSCNT embryos was stable throughout the nuclear transfer process, and arrested at the 8‐ to 16‐cell stage (P > 0.05). In bovine SCNT embryos that developed to the blastocyst stage, mtDNA copy number was increased (P < 0.05). In conclusion, both the donor cell and recipient cytoplast mtDNAs of buffalo iSCNT embryos were identified and maintained through the iSCNT process until the 8–16‐cell stage. In addition, the copy number of mtDNA per embryo was a useful monitor to investigate nuclear–mitochondrial interactions.
Evaluation of the heat‐killed and dried cell preparation of Enterococcus faecalis against villous atrophy in early‐weaned mice and pigs
Authors: TSUKAHARA Takamitsu , YOSHIDA Yoko , TSUSHIMA Toshiki , WATANABE Takumi , MATSUBARA Noritaka , INOUE Ryo , USHIDA Kazunari
Published: February 2011

Early weaning induces villous atrophy in the small intestine (SI) of piglets. Oral administration of live lactic acid bacteria (LAB) can improve villous shortening. In this study, we evaluated the oral administration of a heat‐killed and dried cell preparation of Enterococcus faecalis (a LAB) strain EC‐12 against villous atrophy in early‐weaned mice (Experiment 1) and pigs (Experiments 2 and 3). Twelve 16‐days‐old mice were divided into two groups in Experiment 1: gavage of EC‐12 (10 mg/kg body weight (BW)/day), or control. On day 21, SI was collected. Eighteen 21‐day‐old pigs were divided into two groups in Experiment 2: gavage of EC‐12 (10 mg/kg BW/day), or control. After 10 days, the villous height of jejunum was measured. Six 21‐day‐old pigs were divided into two groups in Experiment 3: the basal diet supplemented with EC‐12 at 0.05%‐fed group, or the basal diet‐fed group. After 10 days, the villous height of jejunum was measured. The villous heights in SI were significantly higher by EC‐12 administration in all experiments. EC‐12 successfully improved the villous atrophy in the early‐weaned mice and pigs when EC‐12 was administered orally.
Oocytic expression of zona pellucida protein ZP4 in Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica)
Authors: SERIZAWA Mami , KINOSHITA Mihoko , RODLER Daniela , TSUKADA Akira , ONO Hiroko , YOSHIMURA Takashi , KANSAKU Norio , SASANAMI Tomohiro
Published: February 2011

The avian perivitelline layer, an extracellular matrix homologous to the zona pellucida (ZP) of mammalian oocytes, is composed mainly by zona pellucida gene family glycoproteins. Our previous studies in Japanese quail have demonstrated that the matrix's components, ZP3 and ZPD, are synthesized in ovarian granulosa cells. Another component, ZP1, is synthesized in the liver. Recently, we demonstrated that another minor constituent, ZP2 is produced in the oocytes of the immature follicles. In the present study, we report the isolation of complementary DNA encoding quail ZP4 and its expression and origin in the female birds. By ribonuclease protection assay and in situ hybridization, we demonstrated that ZP4 transcripts were transcribed in the oocytes of small white follicles. The expression level of ZP4 decreased dramatically during follicular development, and the highest expression was observed in the small white follicles. Western blot analysis using the specific antibody against ZP4 indicated that the immunoreactive 58.2 kDa protein was present in the lysates of the small white follicles. These results demonstrate for the first time that the avian ZP4 is expressed in the oocyte, and that the expression pattern of the gene is similar to that of ZP2.
Contribution of hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α to transcriptional regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor in bovine developing luteal cells
Authors: ZHANG Zhenghong , YIN Dingzhong , WANG Zhengchao
Published: February 2011

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐dependent angiogenesis is crucial for corpus leteum formation and their functional maintenance in mammalian ovaries. The present study was designed to test the hypothesis that hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF)‐1α‐mediated transcriptional activation contributes to the increased expression of VEGF gene in response to hypoxia in the bovine developing luteal cells (LCs). By real‐time RT‐PCR analysis, VEGF messenger RNA (mRNA) expression was found to significantly increase under hypoxia or treatment with desferrioxamine (DFX), cobalt chloride (CoCl2) or even N‐carbobenzoxyl‐L‐leucinyl‐L‐leucinyl‐L‐norvalinal (MG‐132), while these increased VEGF mRNA expressions could also be blocked by ferrous ammonium sulfate (FAS) or cis‐element oligodeoxynucleotide (dsODN) transfection under hypoxia. Further analysis also found that these changes of VEGF mRNA were consistent with HIF‐1α expression or HIF‐1 activity. Taken together, our results indicate that VEGF is transcriptionally activated by hypoxia through HIF‐1α‐mediated mechanisms in LCs. This hypoxia‐induced transcriptional activation may be one of the important mechanisms mediating the increase of VEGF expression in developing LCs during mammalian corpus leteum formation.
Changes in oxidative status in periparturient dairy cows in hot conditions
Authors: TANAKA Masahito , KAMIYA Yuko , SUZUKI Tomoyuki , NAKAI Yutaka
Published: February 2011

We investigated the changes in the plasma concentrations of oxidative stress markers in periparturient dairy cows in hot conditions. This study was performed on 10 cows from day −5 to day 10 after parturition. The experimental duration was divided into three periods: period 1 (5 days before parturition); period 2 (5 days after parturition); and period 3 (from day 6 to day 10 after parturition). The average rectal temperature in the cows during the experimental period was more than 39°C. Plasma aspartate aminotransferase activities in periods 2 and 3 were higher than that in period 1 (P < 0.05). Blood urea nitrogen concentration in period 3 was lower than those in periods 1 and 2 (P < 0.05). The total ascorbic acid concentration in the plasma in period 2 was greater than those in periods 1 and 3 (P < 0.05). Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) concentrations in periods 2 and 3 were greater than that in period 1 (P < 0.05). TBARS concentration was positively correlated with aspartate aminotransferase activity (P < 0.05). These results suggested that oxidative stress increased in cows after parturition under hot climatic conditions.
Dynamics in electron transfer protein complexes
Authors: Bashir Qamar , Scanu Sandra , Ubbink Marcellus
Published: February 2011

Electron transfer proteins transport electrons safely between large redox enzymes. The complexes formed by these proteins are among the most transient. The biological function requires, on the one hand, sufficient specificity of the interaction to allow for rapid and selective electron transfer, and, on the other hand, a fast turnover of the complex. Recent progress in the characterization of the nature of these complexes has demonstrated that the encounter state plays an important role. This state of initial binding is dominated by electrostatic interactions, and consists of an ensemble of orientations. Paramagnetic relaxation enhancement NMR and chemical shift perturbation analysis provide ways for the experimental characterisation of the encounter state. Several studies that have used these techniques have shown that the surface area sample in the encounter state can be limited to the immediate environment of the final, specific complex. The encounter complex can represent a large fraction and, in some small complexes, no specific binding is detected at all. It can be concluded that, in electron transfer protein complexes, a fine balance is sought between the low‐specificity encounter state and the high‐specificity productive complex to meet the opposing requirements of rapid electron transfer and a high turnover rate.
Expression of CYP2E1 increases oxidative stress and induces apoptosis of cardiomyocytes in transgenic mice
Authors: Zhang Wei , Lu Dan , Dong Wei , Zhang Li , Zhang Xiaojuan , Quan Xiongzhi , Ma Chunmei , Lian Hong , Zhang Lianfeng
Published: February 2011

Cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) is an effective generator of reactive oxygen species. Marked expression of CYP2E1 occurs in the heart and it is known to be regulated in the course of progression of myocardial ischemia and cardiomyopathy. We provide evidence that the expression of CYP2E1 is strongly up‐regulated in cTnTR141W transgenic mice with dilated cardiomyopathy. Heart tissue‐specific CYP2E1 transgenic mice were produced to study the effects of CYP2E1 overexpression on the heart. Increased mortality, chamber dilation and contractile dysfunction, as well as myocyte disarray, interstitial fibrosis, ultrastructural degeneration with myofibrillar disorganization and mitochondria damage, were observed in CYP2E1 transgenic mice and cTnTR141W transgenic mice. In addition, levels of H2O2 and malondialdehyde were increased and levels of glutathione and total antioxidant capability were strongly reduced in CYP2E1 transgenic mice and cTnTR141W transgenic mice. Myocyte apoptosis was significantly increased by 19‐fold in CYP2E1 transgenic mice and by 11‐fold in cTnTR141W transgenic mice, respectively, compared to wild‐type mice. Mitochondrial‐dependent apoptotic signal transduction events, such as cytochrome c release from mitochondria into the cytosol and the expression of cleaved (active) caspases 3 and 9, were significantly increased in CYP2E1 transgenic mice and cTnTR141W transgenic mice. These results demonstrate that CYP2E1 over‐expression produces apoptosis and that the up‐regulation of CYP2E1 in cTnTR141W transgenic mice also correlates with apoptosis in this model.
Surface‐enhanced vibrational spectroscopy for probing transient interactions of proteins with biomimetic interfaces: electric field effects on structure, dynamics and function of cytochrome c
Authors: Khoa Ly Hong , Sezer Murat , Wisitruangsakul Nattawadee , Feng Jiu‐Ju , Kranich Anja , Millo Diego , Weidinger Inez M. , Zebger Ingo , Murgida Daniel H. , Hildebrandt Peter
Published: February 2011

Most of the biochemical and biophysical processes of proteins take place at membranes, and are thus under the influence of strong local electric fields, which are likely to affect the structure as well as the reaction mechanism and dynamics. To analyse such electric field effects, biomimetic interfaces may be employed that consist of membrane models deposited on nanostructured metal electrodes. For such devices, surface‐enhanced resonance Raman and IR absorption spectroscopy are powerful techniques to disentangle the complex interfacial processes of proteins in terms of rotational diffusion, electron transfer, and protein and cofactor structural changes. The present article reviews the results obtained for the haem protein cytochrome c, which is widely used as a model protein for studying the various reaction steps of interfacial redox processes in general. In addition, it is shown that electric field effects may be functional for the natural redox processes of cytochrome c in the respiratory chain, as well as for the switch from the redox to the peroxidase function, one of the key events preceding apoptosis.
Transient interactions in metalloproteins
Authors: Díaz‐Moreno Irene , De la Rosa Miguel Á.
Published: February 2011

Accompanied by a podcast, listen now. Or listen in iTunes
Probing the reactivity of different forms of azurin by flavin photoreduction
Authors: Alagaratnam Sharmini , Meeuwenoord Nico J. , Navarro José A. , Hervás Manuel , De la Rosa Miguel A. , Hoffmann Maren , Einsle Oliver , Ubbink Marcellus , Canters Gerard W.
Published: February 2011

The reactivity of a variant of the blue copper protein, azurin from Pseudomonas aeruginosa, was investigated with laser flash photolysis and compared with the reactivity of the wild‐type (WT) protein. The variant was obtained by changing the Cu ligating His117 for a glycine. The mutation creates a gap in the ligand shell of the Cu that can be filled with external ligands or water molecules. The crystal structure of the H117G variant is reported. It shows that the immediate surrounding of the Cu site in the variant exhibits less rigidity than in the WT protein and that the loop containing the Cu ligands Cys112, His117 and Met121 in the WT protein has gained flexibility in the H117G variant. Flash photolysis experiments were performed with 5‐deazariboflavin and 8α‐imidazolyl‐(N‐propylyl)‐amino riboflavin as electron donors to probe the reactivity of WT and H117G azurin, and of H117G azurin for which the gap in the Cu co‐ordination shell was filled with imidazole. 8α‐Imidazolyl‐(N‐propylyl)‐amino riboflavin appears one to two orders less efficient as a photo‐flash reductant than 5‐deazariboflavin. The reactivity of the H117G variant in the absence of external ligands appears to be 2.5‐fold lower than the WT reactivity (second‐order rate constants of 51 ± 2 × 107 m−1·s−1 versus 21 ± 1 × 107 m−1·s−1), whereas the addition of imidazole restores reactivity to above the WT level (71 ± 4 × 107 m−1·s−1). The differences are discussed in terms of structural modifications and changes in reorganizational energy and electronic coupling.

Database
 Structural data are available in the Protein Data Bank under the accession number 3N2J.

Structured digital abstract

 Azurin binds to Azurin by x‐ray crystallography (View interaction)