bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Newly identified aspects of tumor suppression by RB
Authors: Viatour Patrick , Sage Julien
Published: August 2011

The retinoblastoma (RB) tumor suppressor belongs to a cellular pathway that plays a crucial role in restricting the G1-S transition of the cell cycle in response to a large number of extracellular and intracellular cues. Research in the last decade has highlighted the complexity of regulatory networks that ensure proper cell cycle progression, and has also identified multiple cellular functions beyond cell cycle regulation for RB and its two family members, p107 and p130. Here we review some of the recent evidence pointing to a role of RB as a molecular adaptor at the crossroads of multiple pathways, ensuring cellular homeostasis in different contexts. In particular, we discuss the pro- and anti-tumorigenic roles of RB during the early stages of cancer, as well as the importance of the RB pathway in stem cells and cell fate decisions.
Down syndrome: searching for the genetic culprits
Authors: Lana-Elola Eva , Watson-Scales Sheona D. , Fisher Elizabeth M. C. , Tybulewicz Victor L. J.
Published: August 2011

Down syndrome (DS) is caused by trisomy of human chromosome 21 (Hsa21) and results in a large number of phenotypes, including learning difficulties, cardiac defects, distinguishing facial features and leukaemia. These are likely to result from an increased dosage of one or more of the ∼310 genes present on Hsa21. The identification of these dosage-sensitive genes has become a major focus in DS research because it is essential for a full understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying pathology, and might eventually lead to more effective therapy. The search for these dosage-sensitive genes is being carried out using both human and mouse genetics. Studies of humans with partial trisomy of Hsa21 have identified regions of this chromosome that contribute to different phenotypes. In addition, novel engineered mouse models are being used to map the location of dosage-sensitive genes, which, in a few cases, has led to the identification of individual genes that are causative for certain phenotypes. These studies have revealed a complex genetic interplay, showing that the diverse DS phenotypes are likely to be caused by increased copies of many genes, with individual genes contributing in different proportions to the variance in different aspects of the pathology.
Lung-specific loss of the laminin α3 subunit confers resistance to mechanical injury
Authors: Urich Daniela , Eisenberg Jessica L. , Hamill Kevin J. , Takawira Desire , Chiarella Sergio E. , Soberanes Saul , Gonzalez Angel , Koentgen Frank , Manghi Tomas , Hopkinson Susan B. , Misharin Alexander V. , Perlman Harris , Mutlu Gokhan M. , Budinger G. R. Scott , Jones Jonathan C. R.
Published: August 2011

Laminins are heterotrimeric glycoproteins of the extracellular matrix that are secreted by epithelial cells and which are crucial for the normal structure and function of the basement membrane. We have generated a mouse harboring a conditional knockout of α3 laminin (Lama3fl/fl), one of the main laminin subunits in the lung basement membrane. At 60 days after intratracheal treatment of adult Lama3fl/fl mice with an adenovirus encoding Cre recombinase (Ad-Cre), the protein abundance of α3 laminin in whole lung homogenates was more than 50% lower than that in control-treated mice, suggesting a relatively long half-life for the protein in the lung. Upon exposure to an injurious ventilation strategy (tidal volume of 35 ml per kg of body weight for 2 hours), the mice with a knockdown of the α3 laminin subunit had less severe injury, as shown by lung mechanics, histology, alveolar capillary permeability and survival when compared with Ad-Null-treated mice. Knockdown of the α3 laminin subunit resulted in evidence of lung inflammation. However, this did not account for their resistance to mechanical ventilation. Rather, the loss of α3 laminin was associated with a significant increase in the collagen content of the lungs. We conclude that the loss of α3 laminin in the alveolar epithelium results in an increase in lung collagen, which confers resistance to mechanical injury.
Chromosomal breaks during mitotic catastrophe trigger γH2AX–ATM–p53-mediated apoptosis
Authors: Imreh Gabriela , Norberg Helin Vakifahmetoglu , Imreh Stefan , Zhivotovsky Boris
Published: August 2011

Although the cause and outcome of mitotic catastrophe (MC) has been thoroughly investigated, precisely how the ensuing lethality is regulated during or following this process and what signals are involved remain unknown. Moreover, the mechanism of the decision of cell death modalities following MC is still not well characterised. We demonstrate here a crucial role of the γH2AX–ATM–p53 pathway in the regulation of the apoptotic outcome of MC resulting from cells entering mitosis with damaged DNA. In addition to p53 deficiency, the depletion of ATM (ataxia telangiectasia mutated), but not ATR (ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related protein), protected against apoptosis and shifted cell death towards necrosis. Activation of this pathway is triggered by the augmented chromosomal damage acquired during anaphase in doxorubicin-treated cells lacking 14-3-3σ (also known as epithelial cell marker protein-1 or stratifin). Moreover, cells that enter mitosis with damaged DNA encounter segregation problems because of their abnormal chromosomes, leading to defects in mitotic exit, and they therefore accumulate in G1 phase. These multi- or micronucleated cells are prevented from cycling again in a p53- and p21-dependent manner, and subsequently die. Because increased chromosomal damage resulting in extensive H2AX phosphorylation appears to be a direct cause of catastrophic mitosis, our results describe a mechanism that involves generation of additional DNA damage during MC to eliminate chromosomally unstable cells.
Activation of Src induces mitochondrial localisation of de2-7EGFR (EGFRvIII) in glioma cells: implications for glucose metabolism
Authors: Cvrljevic Anna N. , Akhavan David , Wu Min , Martinello Paul , Furnari Frank B. , Johnston Amelia J. , Guo Deliang , Pike Lisa , Cavenee Webster K. , Scott Andrew M. , Mischel Paul S. , Hoogenraad Nick J. , Johns Terrance G.
Published: August 2011

A common mutation of the epidermal growth factor receptor in glioma is the de2-7EGFR (or EGFRvIII). Glioma cells expressing de2-7EGFR contain an intracellular pool of receptor with high levels of mannose glycosylation, which is consistent with delayed processing. We now show that this delay occurs in the Golgi complex. Low levels of de2-7EGFR were also seen within the mitochondria. Src activation dramatically increased the amount of mitochondrial de2-7EGFR, whereas its pharmacological inhibition caused a significant reduction. Because de2-7EGFR is phosphorylated by Src at Y845, we generated glioma cells expressing a Y845F-modified de2-7EGFR. The de2-7EGFR(845F) mutant failed to show mitochondrial localisation, even when co-expressed with constitutive active Src. Low levels of glucose enhanced mitochondrial localisation of de2-7EGFR, and glioma cells expressing the receptor showed increased survival and proliferation under these conditions. Consistent with this, de2-7EGFR reduced glucose dependency by stimulating mitochondrial oxidative metabolism. Thus, the mitochondrial localisation of de2-7EGFR contributes to its tumorigenicity and might help to explain its resistance to some EGFR-targeted therapeutics.
RhoG is required for both FcγR- and CR3-mediated phagocytosis
Authors: Tzircotis George , Braga Vania M. M. , Caron Emmanuelle
Published: August 2011

Phagocytosis is a highly ordered process orchestrated by signalling through Rho GTPases to locally organise the actin cytoskeleton and drive particle uptake. Specific Rho family members that regulate phagocytosis are not known, as the majority of studies have relied on the use of dominant-negative mutants and/or toxins, which can inactivate multiple Rho GTPases. To identify the relevant GTPases for phagocytosis through the Fcγ receptor (FcγR) and complement receptor 3 (CR3), we depleted 20 Rho proteins individually in an RNA interference (RNAi) screen. We find that distinct GTPase subsets are required for actin polymerisation and uptake by macrophages: FcγR-dependent engulfment requires Cdc42 and Rac2 (but not Rac1), whereas CR3 requires RhoA. Surprisingly, RhoG is required for particle uptake through both FcγR and CR3. RhoG has been previously linked to Rac and Cdc42 signalling in different model systems, but not to RhoA. Interestingly, we find that RhoG is also recruited and activated at phagocytic cups downstream of FcγR and CR3, irrespective of their distinct actin structures and mechanisms of internalisation. Thus, the functional links between RhoG and RhoA downstream of CR3-dependent phagocytosis are new and unexpected. Our data suggest a broad role for RhoG in consolidating signals from multiple receptors during phagocytosis.
Scaffolding function of theChlamydomonasprocentriole protein CRC70, a member of the conserved Cep70 family
Authors: Shiratsuchi Gen , Kamiya Ritsu , Hirono Masafumi
Published: August 2011

Centriole duplication occurs once per cell cycle through the assembly of daughter centrioles on the side wall of pre-existing centrioles. Little is known about the molecules involved in the assembly of new centrioles. Here, we identify CRC70 as a Chlamydomonas protein with an important role in the accumulation of centriole proteins at the site of assembly. CRC70 contains a highly conserved ~50-amino-acid sequence shared by mammalian Cep70 and preferentially localizes to immature centrioles (the procentrioles). This localization is maintained in the mutant bld10, in which centriole formation is blocked before the assembly of centriolar microtubules. RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated knockdown of CRC70 produces flagella-less cells and inhibits the recruitment of other centriole components, such as SAS-6 and Bld10p to the centriole. Overexpression of CRC70 induces an accumulation of these proteins in discrete spots in the cytoplasm. Overexpression of EGFP-tagged CRC70 in mouse NIH3T3 cells causes the formation of structures apparently related to centrioles. These findings suggest that CRC70 is a member of a conserved protein family and functions as a scaffold for the assembly of the centriole precursor.
p38 MAPKs regulate the expression of genes in the dopamine synthesis pathway through phosphorylation of NR4A nuclear receptors
Authors: Sekine Yusuke , Takagahara Shuichi , Hatanaka Ryo , Watanabe Takeshi , Oguchi Haruka , Noguchi Takuya , Naguro Isao , Kobayashi Kazuto , Tsunoda Makoto , Funatsu Takashi , Nomura Hiroshi , Toyoda Takeshi , Matsuki Norio , Kuranaga Erina , Miura Masayuki , Takeda Kohsuke , Ichijo Hidenori
Published: August 2011

In Drosophila, the melanization reaction is an important defense mechanism against injury and invasion of microorganisms. Drosophila tyrosine hydroxylase (TH, also known as Pale) and dopa decarboxylase (Ddc), key enzymes in the dopamine synthesis pathway, underlie the melanin synthesis by providing the melanin precursors dopa and dopamine, respectively. It has been shown that expression of Drosophila TH and Ddc is induced in various physiological and pathological conditions, including bacterial challenge; however, the mechanism involved has not been fully elucidated. Here, we show that ectopic activation of p38 MAPK induces TH and Ddc expression, leading to upregulation of melanization in the Drosophila cuticle. This p38-dependent melanization was attenuated by knockdown of TH and Ddc, as well as by that of Drosophila HR38, a member of the NR4A family of nuclear receptors. In mammalian cells, p38 phosphorylated mammalian NR4As and Drosophila HR38 and potentiated these NR4As to transactivate a promoter containing NR4A-binding elements, with this transactivation being, at least in part, dependent on the phosphorylation. This suggests an evolutionarily conserved role for p38 MAPKs in the regulation of NR4As. Thus, p38-regulated gene induction through NR4As appears to function in the dopamine synthesis pathway and may be involved in immune and stress responses.
Selective inhibition of rRNA transcription downregulates E2F-1: a new p53-independent mechanism linking cell growth to cell proliferation
Authors: Donati Giulio , Brighenti Elisa , Vici Manuela , Mazzini Giuliano , Treré Davide , Montanaro Lorenzo , Derenzini Massimo
Published: August 2011

The tumour suppressor p53 negatively controls cell cycle progression in response to perturbed ribosome biogenesis in mammalian cells, thus coordinating growth with proliferation. Unlike mammalian cells, p53 is not involved in the growth control of proliferation in yeasts and flies. We investigated whether a p53-independent mechanism of response to inadequate ribosome biogenesis rate is also present in mammalian cells. We studied the effect of specific inhibition of rRNA synthesis on cell cycle progression in human cancer cell lines using the small-interfering RNA procedure to silence the POLR1A gene, which encodes the catalytic subunit of RNA polymerase I. We found that interference of POLR1A inhibited the synthesis of rRNA and hindered cell cycle progression in cells with inactivated p53, as a consequence of downregulation of the transcription factor E2F-1. Downregulation of E2F-1 was due to release of the ribosomal protein L11, which inactivated the E2F-1-stabilising function of the E3 ubiquitin protein ligase MDM2. These results demonstrated the existence of a p53-independent mechanism that links cell growth to cell proliferation in mammalian cells, and suggested that selective targeting of the RNA polymerase I transcription machinery might be advisable to hinder proliferation of p53-deficient cancer cells.
Immunobiology of naïve and genetically modified HLA-class-I-knockdown human embryonic stem cells
Authors: Deuse Tobias , Seifert Martina , Phillips Neil , Fire Andrew , Tyan Dolly , Kay Mark , Tsao Philip S. , Hua Xiaoqin , Velden Joachim , Eiermann Thomas , Volk Hans-Dieter , Reichenspurner Hermann , Robbins Robert C. , Schrepfer Sonja
Published: August 2011

Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) can serve as a universal cell source for emerging cell or tissue replacement strategies, but immune rejection of hESC derivatives remains an unsolved problem. Here, we sought to describe the mechanisms of rejection for naïve hESCs and upon HLA class I (HLA I) knockdown (hESCKD). hESCs were HLA I-positive but negative for HLA II and co-stimulatory molecules. Transplantation of naïve hESC into immunocompetent Balb/c mice induced substantial T helper cell 1 and 2 (Th1 and Th2) responses with rapid cell death, but hESCs survived in immunodeficient SCID-beige recipients. Histology revealed mainly macrophages and T cells, but only scattered natural killer (NK) cells. A surge of hESC-specific antibodies against hESC class I, but not class II antigens, was observed. Using HLA I RNA interference and intrabody technology, HLA I surface expression of hESCKD was 88%–99% reduced. T cell activation after hESCKD transplantation into Balb/c was significantly diminished, antibody production was substantially alleviated, the levels of graft-infiltrating immune cells were reduced and the survival of hESCKD was prolonged. Because of their very low expression of stimulatory NK ligands, NK-susceptibility of naïve hESCs and hESCKD was negligible. Thus, HLA I recognition by T cells seems to be the primary mechanism of hESC recognition, and T cells, macrophages and hESC-specific antibodies participate in hESC killing.
Regulation of in vitro diagnostics (IVDs) for use in clinical diagnostic laboratories: towards the light or dark in clinical laboratory testing?
Authors: Favaloro Emmanuel J. , Plebani Mario , Lippi Giuseppe
Published: August 2011

A revised framework for the regulation of in vitro diagnostic devices (IVDs) came into force in Australia on July 1, 2010 that aims to ‘ensure that public and personal health are adequately protected’, but which instead may lead to adverse outcomes in clinical diagnosis and management. The regulatory process aims to regulate all IVDs, including those used by clinical diagnostic laboratories, which are already subject to scrutiny as part of the current laboratory accreditation process. The IVD regulatory process initiated in Australia is similar to that used in Canada, but different to that currently operating in the USA and Europe. However, it is feasible that other countries will in time adopt a similar regulatory framework, given that many countries are involved in the development process. In this opinion paper, the regulatory process for IVDs across several geographies are outlined, as are some benefits and weaknesses of the new regulatory process now applied to Australia, as potentially planned for other regions of the world.
Synthesis of a 19-(O-carboxymethyl)oxime hapten of 7β-hydroxy-epiandrosterone
Authors: Ferroud Clotilde , Revial Gilbert , Ricco Christophe , Hennebert Olivier , Morfin Robert
Published: August 2011

In order to develop an immunoassay of 7β-hydroxy-epiandrosterone, a stereoselective synthesis of a specific hapten, 7β-hydroxy-19-oxo-androstan 19-(O-carboxymethyl)oxime (17), was performed. This synthesis was achieved in 16% overall yield starting from the well-known 3β-acetoxy-19-hydroxy-5-androsten-17-one (1). After coupling of the alkyl oxime moiety, an allylic oxidation of the C-7 carbon under mild conditions followed by two selective reductions established all the functionalities of the final compound 17.
Quadratic properties in group amalgams
Authors: Fine Benjamin , Rosenberger Aila , Rosenberger Gerhard
Published: August 2011

Lyndon in [Combinatorial Group Theory, Springer-Verlag, 1977] proved that in a free group F each solution set {x, y, z} of the quadratic equation x
2
y
2
z
2 = 1 generates a cyclic group. This theorem launched the whole theory of equations over free groups which led eventually to the solution of the Tarski conjectures. Since Lyndon's theorem can be phrased as a universal sentence, it is true in all fully residually free groups, if we replace cyclic by abelian. In the present paper we consider amalgams of groups which satisfy Lyndon's theorem. We prove that this property and several other related properties involving quadratic and quadratic-type equations are preserved under free products with malnormal amalgamated subgroups. The situation in HNN groups is more complicated.
Stabilizers of ℝ-trees with free isometric actions of FN
Authors: Kapovich Ilya , Lustig Martin
Published: August 2011

We prove that if T is an ℝ-tree with a minimal free isometric action of FN
, then the Out(FN
)-stabilizer of the projective class [T] is virtually cyclic.

For the special case where T = T
+(ϕ) is the forward limit tree of an atoroidal iwip element ϕ ∈ Out(FN
) this is a consequence of the results of Bestvina, Feighn and Handel [Geom. Funct. Anal. 7: 215–244, 1997], via very different methods.

We also derive a new proof of the Tits alternative for subgroups of Out(FN
) containing an iwip (not necessarily atoroidal): we prove that every such subgroup G ⩽ Out(FN
) is either virtually cyclic or contains a free subgroup of rank two. The general case of the Tits alternative for subgroups of Out(FN
) is due to Bestvina, Feighn and Handel.
On factorizations of finite groups with ℱ-hypercentral intersections of the factors
Authors: Guo Wenbin , Skiba Alexander N.
Published: August 2011

A chief factor H/K of a group G is called ℱ-central if [H/K](G/CG
(H/K)) ∈ ℱ. The product of all such normal subgroups of G, whose G-chief factors are ℱ-central in G, is called the ℱ-hypercentre of G and denoted by . The finite groups G with factorizations G = AB, where for some class of groups ℱ, are studied. Some known results about factorizations of groups are generalized.
A note on element centralizers in finite Coxeter groups
Authors: Konvalinka Matjaž , Pfeiffer Götz , Röver Claas E.
Published: August 2011

The normalizer NW
(WJ
) of a standard parabolic subgroup WJ
of a finite Coxeter group W splits over the parabolic subgroup with complement NJ
consisting of certain minimal length coset representatives of WJ
in W. In this note we show that (with the exception of a small number of cases arising from a situation in Coxeter groups of type Dn
) the centralizer CW
(w) of an element w ∈ W is in a similar way a semidirect product of the centralizer of w in a suitable small parabolic subgroup WJ
with complement isomorphic to the normalizer complement NJ
. Then we use this result to give a new short proof of Solomon's Character Formula and discuss its connection to MacMahon's master theorem.
Lattice-defined classes of finite groups with modular Sylow subgroups
Authors: Andreeva Siyka , Schmidt Roland , Toborg Imke
Published: August 2011

If L is a lattice, a group is called L-free if its subgroup lattice has no sublattice isomorphic to L. It is easy to see that for every sublattice L of L
10, the subgroup lattice of the dihedral group of order 8, the finite L-free groups form a lattice-defined class of groups with modular Sylow subgroups. In this paper we determine the structure of these groups for the two non-modular 8-element sublattices of L
10.
A case-free characterization of hyperbolic Coxeter systems
Authors: Edgar Tom
Published: August 2011

We provide a case-free characterization of hyperbolic Coxeter systems depending only on the Coxeter graph. Consequently, we uncover a case-free proof of the fact that every infinite, non-affine Coxeter system contains a standard parabolic subsystem that is a hyperbolic Coxeter system.
On the q-tensor square of a group
Authors: Bueno Ticianne P. , Rocco Noraí R.
Published: August 2011

We study the non-abelian tensor square modulo q of a group, where q is a non-negative integer, via an operator ν

q
in the class of groups. Structural properties and finiteness conditions of νq
(G) are investigated. We compute the non-abelian tensor square modulo q of cyclic groups and develop a theory for computing νq
(G) and some of its relevant sections for polycyclic groups G. This extends the existing theory from the case q = 0 to all non-negative integers q. Additionally, a table of examples is produced with the help of the GAP system.
Sulfate complexation of element 104, Rf, in H2SO4/HNO3mixed solution
Authors: Li Z. J. , Toyoshima A. , Asai M. , Tsukada K. , Sato T. K. , Sato N. , Kikuchi T. , Nagame Y. , Schädel M. , Pershina Valeria , Liang X. H. , et al.
Published: August 2011

The cation-exchange behavior of261Rf (T1/2= 78 s) produced in the248Cm(18O, 5n) reaction was studied on a “one-atom-at-a-time” scale in 0.15–0.69 M H2SO4/HNO3mixed solutions ([H+]=1.0 M) using an automated ion-exchange separation apparatus coupled with the detection system for alpha-spectroscopy (AIDA). It was found that adsorption probabilities ( decrease with an increase of [HSO4−], showing a successive formation of Rf sulfate complexes. Rf exhibits a weaker complex formation tendency compared to the lighter homologues Zr and Hf. This is in good agreement with theoretical predictions including relativistic effects.
Fatores determinantes da carga de trabalho em uma unidade básica de saúde
Authors: Silva Nilson Rogério da
Published: August 2011

As doenças decorrentes do exercício pro-fissional, sejam de ordem física ou emocional, têm apresentado aumento crescente na sociedade atual, nos diferentes segmentos laborativos, com projeção significativa junto aos profissionais da saúde como médicos, dentistas, enfermeiros, auxiliares de enfermagem e auxiliares administrativos envolvidos com a prestação de serviços nas unidades de saúde. Este estudo teve por objetivo conhecer a carga de trabalho e seus fatores determinantes, buscando identificar possíveis relações entre as condições de trabalho e o possível impacto para a saúde dos trabalhadores. Participaram da amostra 31 indivíduos: 12 médicos, 3 dentistas, 1 enfermeira, 9 auxiliares de enfermagem, 3 auxiliares odontológicos e 3 auxiliares administrativos de uma Unidade Básica de Saúde (UBS) no interior de São Paulo. Para a coleta dos dados foi elaborado um roteiro de entrevista estruturado e realizadas reuniões com os grupos específicos para uma descrição detalhada das atividades realizadas em cada setor e o levantamento de problemas e de características desejáveis. Os resultados indicam a presença de carga física, carga cognitiva e carga psíquica; processo de comunicação inadequado; equipamentos obsoletos; número excessivo de usuários e estrutura frágil para lidar com absenteísmo.
Os coletores de lixo urbano no município de Dourados (MS) e sua percepção sobre os riscos biológicos em seu processo de trabalho
Authors: Lazzari Michelly Angelina , Reis Cássia Barbosa
Published: August 2011

A coleta de lixo urbano apresenta vários riscos ocupacionais. O objetivo foi identificar os riscos biológicos a que estão expostos os coletores de lixo urbano de Dourados/MS. Foi feita uma pesquisa qualitativa, segundo o Discurso do Sujeito Coletivo de Lefévre e Lefévre. A população abrangeu 42 trabalhadores, lotados na empresa que presta serviços à Secretaria Municipal de Serviços Urbanos. A coleta de dados através de entrevistas ocorreu de setembro de 2005 a janeiro de 2006. As entrevistas duraram em média 40 minutos, foram realizadas no escritório da empresa, em horário de chegada dos funcionários, gravadas em fita K7 e transcritas. Os riscos biológicos, segundo os coletores, são acidentes com vidro, seringas, espinhos, mordida de cães e contato com substâncias do lixo. Os acidentes com perfurocortantes constituem porta-de-entrada para microorganismos como bactérias, vírus e fungos. A contaminação com vírus (HIV e Hepatites B e C) pode ocorrer através de acidentes com agulhas contaminadas descartadas nos resíduos. Concluímos que os riscos biológicos na coleta de lixo urbano podem diminuir com orientações à população.
Fatores associados à síndrome metabólica em trabalhadores administrativos de uma indústria de petróleo
Authors: Felipe-de-Melo Elizabeth Regina Torres , Silva Rita de Cássia Ribeiro da , Assis Ana Marlúcia Oliveira , Pinto Elisabete de Jesus
Published: August 2011

Estudo transversal com o objetivo de identificar os fatores associados à síndrome metabólica (SM) em trabalhadores administrativos de uma indústria de petróleo. Avaliou-se 1.387 trabalhadores, incluindo dados antropométricos, bioquímicos, estilo de vida, características demográficas e socioeconômicas. Determinou-se a SM segundo a I Diretriz Brasileira de Diagnóstico e Tratamento da Síndrome Metabólica. Os fatores associados à SM foram examinados por modelos de regressão logística univariado e multivariado. 15% dos trabalhadores apresentaram a SM. Na análise multivariada, o sexo (OR=3,4;IC 95% 2,1-5,5), a idade (OR=3,8;IC 95% 1,5-9,4) e o tabagismo (atual e passado) (OR=1,6;IC 95% 1,2-2,3), foram associados à SM. Conclui-se que a prevalência da SM nestes trabalhadores é elevada, especialmente em homens, tabagistas ou ex-tabagistas e com idade acima de 40 anos. Possivelmente, o maior valor deste diagnóstico foi possibilitar a identificação de trabalhadores com alterações metabólicas extremas, que justifiquem intervenções imediatas para redução dos fatores de risco identificados. Nesse sentido, ações que objetivam a promoção de estilo de vida saudável, poderão ser desenvolvidas pelas empresas, visando a contribuir para a melhoria das condições de saúde dos empregados.
A interface da saúde pública com a saúde dos oceanos: produção de doenças, impactos socioeconômicos e relações benéficas
Authors: Moura Jailson Fulgencio de , Cardozo Marcelo , Belo Mariana Soares da Silva Peixoto , Hacon Sandra , Siciliano Salvatore
Published: August 2011

Nas últimas décadas, as atividades humanas têm causado forte impacto sobre o ambiente marinho, provocando alterações no seu processo ecológico. A relação entre a saúde dos oceanos, as atividades antropogênicas e a saúde pública já é consenso, entretanto, seus mecanismos ainda estão sob os olhares da ciência. Essas relações incluem o foco sobre as mudanças climáticas, florações de algas tóxicas, contaminação microbiológica e química nas águas marinhas e bioinvasão de espécies exóticas. Além disso, existe a relação dos valores benéficos que os oceanos proporcionam à saúde e bem-estar da humanidade, tais como produtos naturais relevantes para a alimentação humana, o desenvolvimento da biomedicina, ou simplesmente, a satisfação humana derivada da recreação, esportes e outras interações dos seres humanos com os oceanos. A importância de se conhecer a relação entre saúde pública e a saúde dos oceanos dá-se, principalmente, devido ao crescente número de pessoas vivendo em zonas costeiras, nas regiões tropicais e subtropicais, tendo como pano de fundo as atividades antropogênicas produtoras de risco para a saúde do ambiente marinho, aumento da vulnerabilidade do homem, da biodiversidade e da iniquidade socioambiental.
Influence of Hydrocolloid Concentration, Salinity and Citric Acid Addition on Heat Transfer in the Ohmic Heating Process
Authors: Keshavarz Moraveji Mostafa , Ghaderi Emad , Davarnejad Reza
Published: August 2011

In this article, the effects of Ohmic heating process conditions on electrical conductivity and heat transfer were investigated. In order to study the Ohmic heating process, various hydrocolloid solutions containing starch in water with concentrations of 4–8% in the static cells were used. Temperature increments increased electrical conductivity of the solution, linearly. The concentration of dispersed solid particles in the solution caused a progressive trend in time-temperature curve for hydrocolloid solutions (with concentrations of 4, 5.5 and 8%) without electrolytes. The electrical conductivity was raised by increasing temperatures. In order to consider the salinity impact on electrical conductivity and the heating rate, sodium chloride (with concentrations of 1–0.25%) was added to the solution. It was observed that the salt addition to the system had a major effect on electrical conductivity and time-temperature curves. The pH level was modified with Citric acid addition, and the influence of pH level on the time-temperature curves and heating rates were investigated. The Citric acid addition had no on significant effect on the time-temperature curves.
Study of the Particle Separation Performance of a Dust-settling Hopper
Authors: Wu Bofu , Men Jinlai , Chen Jie
Published: August 2011

This paper presents a numerical study to predict the particle separation performance of a dust-settling hopper using computational fluid dynamics. The Euler-Lagrange approach was employed to analyze the particle separation efficiency and the outflow particle concentration of the dust-settling hopper under different inlet airflow velocities. The calculation results obtained reveal that the overall particle separation efficiency and the outflow particle concentration decrease with the increase of the inlet airflow velocity, and the particle grade efficiency increases with particle size. Since there is a paradox between the particle separation performance and the particle removal performance for a street vacuum sweeper, it is necessary to counter-balance the effects of the inlet airflow velocity on them. According to the simulation analysis, an appropriate inlet airflow velocity is provided for the design of the dust-settling hopper.
Effects of Cyclamen trochopteranthum on hepatic drug-metabolizing enzymes
Authors: Arslan Sevki , Ozgun Ozden , Celik Gurbet , Semiz Asli , Dusen Olcay , Mammadov Ramazan , Sen Alaattin
Published: August 2011

The modulatory effects of the Cyclamen trochopterantum tuber extract on
hepatic drug-metabolizing enzymes, including aniline 4-hydroxylase (A4H;
CYP2E1), ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase (EROD; CYP1A), methoxyresorufin
O-demethylase (MROD; CYP1A), caffeine N-demethylase (C3ND; CYP1A2)
aminopyrene N-demethylase (APND; CYP2C6), and erythromycin N-demethylase
(ERND; CYP3A1), were examined in vivo in rats. The activities of all of these
enzymes were induced by the cyclamen extract. In addition, Western-blot and
RT-PCR results clearly showed that CYP2E1, CYP1A1/CYP1A2 and CYP2C6 protein
and mRNA levels were substantially increased by four different doses of
cyclamen. Although, the CYP3A1 protein level was increased significantly, the
mRNA level was not changed. These results indicate that cyclamen tuber
extract might have a potential not only to inhibit and/or induce the
metabolism of certain co-administered drugs but also influence the
development of toxicity and carcinogenesis due to the induction of the
cytochrome P450-dependent drug-metabolizing enzymes.
Vasopressin modulates hypothalamo-pituitary activity by paracrine action during acute and chronic immobilization stress in rats
Authors: Lakic Iva , Vujovic P. , Jasnic N. , Djurasevic S. , Cvijic Gordana
Published: August 2011

The aim of the study was to examine changes in corticotropin releasing
hormone (CRH), vasopressin (VP), adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) as well as VP3
receptor protein concentration in the hypothalamus and the pituitary of rats
exposed to acute (3 h) and chronically repeated (3 h daily for 7 days)
immobilization stress. Our results show that, unlike the increase in ACTH,
there were no changes in serum VP despite the significant changes in this
hormone and its receptor concentrations in the hypothalamus and pituitary
(HP). This suggests that VP regulates HP activity by predominantly acting in
a paracrine manner under the examined stress condition.
Is cardiac venous anatomy a crucial factor in maximizing the response to cardiac resynchronisation therapy?
Authors: Putnik S. , Savic D. , Matkovic M. , Gluvic Z. , Lackovic Milena , Ilic G. , Milasinovic G.
Published: August 2011

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) restores the synchrony of the heart?s
contractions. The most critical issue in CRT implantation is the positioning
of the coronary sinus (CS) lead because not every region can be accessed due
to variations in coronary venous anatomy. The aim was to determine the
correlation between different CS lead positions and hemodynamic changes and
clinical outcome over time. Our study prospectively enrolled 51 patients with
conventional indications for CRT which was divided into three groups
according to the vein in which the left ventricle lead was placed during the
procedure (posterior, lateral, and anterior). The groups were compared by
baseline demographic characteristics, comorbidity, complications, new
hospitalizations as well as by hemodynamic parameters before and six months
after the procedure. After six months, all patients responded to CRT in the
lateral group, 66.7% patients in the posterior group and 50% in the anterior
group (p<0.01). Patients in the anterior group had a smaller decrease in NYHA
functional class compared to the posterior and the lateral groups (p<0.01).
The largest increase of preoperative ejection fraction value was in the
posterior group (68.7%) compared to the lateral (42.2%) and anterior groups
(19.8%) (p<0.01, A vs. P&L; P vs. A&L). In the anterior group there was a
smaller decrease of QRS complex compared to the posterior and lateral groups
(p< 0.05, A vs. P&L). Also there was a smaller decrease in the degree of
mitral regurgitation in the anterior group compared to the lateral and
posterior groups (p<0.05, A vs. P&L). One of the main determinants of CRT
response is the anatomy of CS tributaries, and therefore the position of the
LV lead is crucial in maximizing the effect of CRT.
Molecular identification and genetic relationships among coffee species (Coffea L.) inferred from ISSR and SRAP marker analyses
Authors: Mishra Kumar , Nishani Sandhyarani , Jayarama J
Published: August 2011

The identification and genetic relationships of 23 coffee species and one
coffee-related species Canthium diccocum were studied using ISSR and SRAP
markers. The average polymorphism information content of SRAP primers (0.81)
was lower than ISSR primers (0.86), whereas the average resolving power of
the SRAP primers (9.74) is higher than the ISSR primers (8.64). The genetic
similarity among the species ranged from 0.30 to 0.89 using ISSR and 0.11 to
0.90 using SRAP marker systems. Based on marker analysis, all twenty three
coffee species were clustered into two major groups. Both the markers
amplified species-specific fragments and are useful in genetic diversity
analysis of coffee.
Antibacterial activities of extracts from twelve Centaurea species from Turkey
Authors: Tekeli Yener , Zengin Gokhan , Aktumsek Abdurrahman , Sezgin Mehmet , Torlak Emrah
Published: August 2011

Members of the genus Centaurea (Asteraceae) have been used in traditional
plant-based medicine. The methanol extracts of twelve Centaurea species, of
which five are endemic to Turkey flora, were screened for antibacterial
activity against four bacteria (Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, Salmonella
enteritidis, Staphylococcus aureus). The antibacterial activity was evaluated
by the microdilution method and the minimum inhibition concentrations (MIC)
of the extracts were determined. C. cariensis subsp. microlepis exhibited an
antimicrobial effect on all tested microorganisms. The extracts from eight
Centaurea species (C. balsamita, C. calolepis, C. cariensis subsp.
maculiceps, C. cariensis subsp. microlepis, C. kotschyi var. kotschyi, C.
solstitialis subsp. solstitialis, C. urvillei subsp. urvillei and C. virgata)
possessed antibacterial activity against several of the tested
microorganisms.
Antimicrobial screening of selected flora of Pakistan
Authors: Zia-Ul-Haq M. , Ahmad Mansoor , Mehjabeen M , Jehan Noor , Ahmad Shakeel , Qayum Mughal , Marwat Khan
Published: August 2011

Ethanolic extracts of Ferula assafoetida resin, Grewia asiatica leaves,
Ipomoea hederacea seeds, Lepidium sativum seeds, Nigella sativa seeds and
Terminalia chebula fruits were tested in vitro for their antibacterial and
antifungal activities. The antibacterial study performed against eight
bacterial species viz., Escherichia coli, Citrobacter, Staphylococcus aureus,
Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi, Micrococcus luteus, Proteus
mirabilis and Bacillus subtilis indicated that the investigated plants have
potent activity against all the tested microorganisms. The antifungal
activity of these extracts was performed against nine fungal strains, viz.,
Aspergillus parasiticus, Aspergillus niger, Yersinia aldovae, Candida
albicans, Aspergillus effusus, Fusarium solani, Macrophomina phaseolina,
Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Trichophyton rubrum. The extracts showed
moderate as well as significant activity against the different fungal
strains.
Biochemical characterization of a sphingomonad isolate from the ascocarp of white truffle (Tuber magnatum Pico)
Authors: Pavic A. , Stankovic S. , Marjanovic Zaklina
Published: August 2011

Available information on bacteria that influence the economically important
white truffle (Tuber magnatum Pico) life cycle is scarce. From the ascocarp
of white truffle we isolated a strain TMG 022C, capable for growth in
nitrogendepleted conditions and assimilation of mannitol and trehalose.
According to 16S rDNA sequence phylogeny, the strain was closely related to
Sphingobium amiense. The strain had the ability to perform ammonification,
reduce nitrate and solubilize Ca3(PO4)2, produce chitinase, lipase,
phospholipase and ?-glucanase, but not cellulase, pectinase, protease and
siderophores. The results suggest that Sphingobium sp. TMG 022C could have an
influence on the Tuber magnatum life cycle through improved mycelium
nutrition and ascocarp decomposition.
Accumulation of Pb, Fe, Mn, Cu and Zn in plants and choice of hyperaccumulator plant in the industrial town of Vian, Iran
Authors: Lorestani B. , Cheraghi M. , Yousefi N.
Published: August 2011

Various industrial activities contribute heavy metals to the soil environment
directly or indirectly through the release of solid wastes, waste gases, and
wastewater. Phytoremediation can be potentially used to remedy
metal-contaminated sites. A major step towards the development of
phytoremediation of heavy metal-impacted soils is the discovery of the heavy
metal hyperaccumulation in plants. This study evaluated the potential of 7
species growing on a contaminated site in an industrial area. Several
established criteria to define a hyperaccumulator plant were applied. The
case study was represented by an industrial town in the Hamedan province in
the central-western part of Iran. This study showed that most of the sampled
species were able to grow in heavily metal-contaminated soils and were also
able to accumulate extraordinarily high concentrations of some metals such as
Pb, Fe, Mn, Cu and Zn. Based on the obtained results and using the most
common criteria, Camphorosma monospeliacum for Pb and Fe, and Salsola soda
and Circium arvense for Pb can be classified as hyperaccumulators and,
therefore, they have suitable potential for the phytoremediation of
contaminated soils.
Direct axillary shoot regeneration from the mature seed explant of the hairy vetch (Vicia villosa Roth)
Authors: Aasim Muhammad , Sahin-Demirbag Nurdan , Khawar Mahmood , Kendir Hayrettin , Özcan Sebahattin
Published: August 2011

The hairy vetch (Vicia villosa Roth) is a climbing, prostrate or trailing
legume grown as forage.It fixes atmospheric nitrogen, reduces soil erosion
and provides an instant mulch. Multiple axillary shoot regeneration from a
mature seed explant (zygotic embryo with two cotyledons) was obtained on MS
medium containing 0.05 - 1.6 mg/l TDZ with or without 0.10 mg/l IBA. The
frequency (%) of shoot regeneration ranged from 45.83-75.00% with a maximum
number of 28.6 shoots per explant on MS medium containing 0.20 mg/l TDZ-0.10
mg/l IBA. The mean shoot length decreased proportionately with each increase
in TDZ concentration irrespective of the IBA concentration in the culture
medium. However, comparing the two types of regeneration media, longer shoots
were recorded in the presence of IBA in the culture medium. Regenerated
shoots were pulse treated with 50 mg/l IBA for 5, 10 and 20 min for rooting.
Identification of recent factors that affect the formation of the upper tree line in eastern Serbia
Authors: Ducic V. , Milovanovic B. , Djurdjic S.
Published: August 2011

The recent climate changes, among others, have contributed to the change in
elevation of the upper tree line in high mountainous areas. At the same time,
direct anthropogenic impact on the fragile ecosystems of high mountains has
also been significant. The aim of this paper is to determine the actual
dynamics of the formation of upper tree line in eastern Serbia and to
identify the recent factors which condition it. The results obtained show
that preconditions have been accomplished for the upper tree line increase,
but this has not completely been confirmed by previous field researches.
Comparative analysis of the anatomical structure of heartwood and sapwood selected Gymnocladus canadensis Lam. trees in Srpska Crnja
Authors: Vilotic Dragica , Sijacic-Nikolic Mirjana , Miljkovic Danijela , Ocokoljic Mirjana , Rebic M.
Published: August 2011

This paper shows the results obtained from the study of the
macroscopic-microscopic structure (capillary system) in the growth stem of
Gymnocladus canadensis Lam. originating from North America, which grows in
?Muzljanski rit? in the area of Srpska Crnja. Gymnocladus canadensis Lam.
falls under the ring-porous species according to its porosity, with large
tracheas in its early zone. The early zone trachea lumens, contained in the
sapwood, reach dimensions of up to 160 ?m, while early zone trachea lumens in
the growth stem rings of the sapwood reach dimensions of up to 120 ?m.
Examination of the microscopic structure of this tree show good properties of
the tree.
On the diversity of leeches (Annelida: Hirudina) in the fresh waters of Kurdistan province, Iran
Authors: Salimi Behnam , Mobedi Iraj , Khiabanian Haghighi , Soltani Mehdi
Published: August 2011

Lotic and lentic environments, including basins, throughout Kurdistan
province, Iran, were surveyed for the presence of leeches from June 2009
until June 2010. In view of the geographical location of Iran, a very rich
fauna of leeches should be expected. For each of the species collected, the
new locality records are given, followed by the global pattern of
distribution. In addition, taxonomic notes are provided for some species. In
total seven species of leeches were found in this region. All species
repeated in the present paper are new and found in the fresh water fauna of
Kurdistan, Iran.
Cases of trunk segmental anomalies in the geophilomorph centipedes Clinopodes flavidus C.L. Koch and clinopodes trebevicensis (Verhoeff) (Chilopoda: Geophilomorpha)
Authors: Mitic B.M. , Makarov S.E. , Ilic B.S. , Stojanovic D.Z. , Curcic B.P.M.
Published: August 2011

We describe and analyze two examples of naturally occurring morphological
anomalies in the geophilomorph centipedes. Recorded abnormalities include a
supernumerary hemisclerite in an adult female specimen of Clinopodes flavidus
C.L. Koch, and an even number of leg-bearing segments in a subadult male
specimen of Clinopodes trebevicensis (Verhoeff). The morphological complexity
of these defects makes them hard to explain as the result of healing or
regeneration. They are most probably congenital and are interpreted as the
effects of perturbation of different morphogenetic processes occurring at
different phases of development of the segments in a given trunk region.
A contribution to the Encarsia and Eretmocerus (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae) species from the Arasbaran biosphere reserve and vicinity, northwestern Iran
Authors: Ghahari Hassan , Huang Jian , Abd-Rabou Shaaban
Published: August 2011

The fauna of the Encarsia and Eretmocerus species (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea:
Aphelinidae) from Arasbaran and its vicinity (Northwestern Iran) is studied
in this paper. A total of 16 Encarsia species, including E. acaudaleyrodis
Hayat, E. aleurochitonis (Mercet), E. aurantii (Howard), E. azimi Hayat, E.
berlesei (Howard), E. citrina (Craw), E. elegans (Masi), E. elongata
(Dozier), E. fasciata (Malenotti), E. formosa Gahan, E. inaron (Walker), E.
lounsburyi (Berlese and Paoli), E. lutea (Masi), E. luteola Howard, E. mineoi
Viggiani, E. perniciosi (Tower), and 4 Eretmocerus species (Eretmocerus
cadabae Viggiani, Eretmocerus mundus Mercet, Eretmocerus nikolskajae
Myartseva, Eretmocerus serius Silvestre) were collected.
Charophytes (Charophyta) in the Zasavica special nature reserve
Authors: Vesic Aleksandra , Blazencic Jelena , Stankovic M.
Published: August 2011

Floristic and taxonomic diversity, as well as studies of ecological
characteristic of Charophyta algae were carried out within the complex
biodiversity researches, in the Zasavica Special Nature Reserve. Nine species
were recorded: Chara globularis, C. contraria, C. vulgaris, Nitella
mucronata, N. capillaris, N. syncarpa, N. confervacea, Tolypella intricata
and T. prolifera. The most common charophyte habitats are shallow, often
ephemeral, ponds and puddles in diluvial forests and marshy meadow
depressions. Charophytes were also found in riparian areas of water flows,
springs and channels, in shallow water (0.1 to 1.2 m), neutral to alkaline
(pH 7.4-8.8), and on different substrates (silt, peat, bogland mold).
High fiber media as the most efficient substrates for Pleurotus florida culture
Authors: Jafarpour Mehrdad , Jalalizand Alireza , Eghbalsaied Shahin
Published: August 2011

Implementation of agricultural residues for oyster mushroom culture has been
accepted world-wide. In this study, we used wheat straw, barley straw, maize
stem residue, and lawn residue as substrates coupled with wheat bran, rice
bran and soybean powder as complements for the growth of P. florida. Wheat
and barley straws which contained a high fiber and C/N ratio had the best
growth period, fruiting body weight, yield, and biological efficiency.
Assessment of substrate and complement combinations indicated that the lowest
growth period was obtained from barley straw enriched with rice bran (24.67
day). However the highest fruiting body number (36.33), fruiting body weight
(31.17 g), yield (1039 g), and biological efficiency (207.8 %) belonged to
wheat straw complemented by either wheat or rice bran. In conclusion, the
highest fruiting body weight, yield, and biological efficiency was achieved
by implementation of composts in which high fiber substrates and complements
were combined.