bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hypoxia promotes redifferentiation and suppresses markers of hypertrophy and degeneration in both healthy and osteoarthritic chondrocytes
Authors: Markway Brandon D , Cho Holly , Johnstone Brian
Published: August 2013

Introduction

Hypoxia is considered to be a positive influence on the healthy chondrocyte phenotype and cartilage matrix formation. However, hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA). Thus, we assessed whether healthy and OA chondrocytes have distinct responses to oxygen, particularly with regard to hypertrophy and degradation during redifferentiation.

Methods

Monolayer-expanded healthy and OA chondrocytes were redifferentiated for 14 days in pellet cultures under standard (20% oxygen) or hypoxic (2% oxygen) conditions. Cartilage matrix gene expression, matrix quality and quantity, degradative enzyme expression and HIF expression were measured.

Results

In hypoxia, both healthy and OA chondrocytes had higher human collagen type II, α1 gene (COL2A1), and aggrecan (ACAN) expression and sulfated glycosaminoglycan (sGAG) accumulation, concomitant with lower human collagen type X, α1 gene (COL10A1), and human collagen type I, α1 gene (COL1A1), expression and collagen I extracellular accumulation. OA chondrocytes had significantly lower sGAGs/DNA than healthy chondrocytes, but only in high oxygen conditions. Hypoxia also caused significantly greater sGAG retention and hyaluronic acid synthase 2 (HAS2) expression by OA chondrocytes. Both healthy and OA chondrocytes had significantly lower expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) MMP1, MMP2, MMP3 and MMP13 in hypoxia and less active MMP2 enzyme, consistent with lower MMP14 expression. However, aggrecanase (ADAMTS4 and ADAMTS5) expression was significantly lowered by hypoxia only in healthy cells, and COL10A1 and MMP13 remained significantly higher in OA chondrocytes than in healthy chondrocytes in hypoxic conditions. HIF-1α and HIF-2α had similar expression profiles in healthy and OA cells, increasing to maximal levels early in hypoxia and decreasing over time.

Conclusions

Hypoxic culture of human chondrocytes has long been acknowledged to result in increased matrix accumulation, but still little is known of its effects on catabolism. We show herein that the increased expression of matrix proteins, combined with decreased expression of numerous degradative enzymes by hypoxia, minimizes but does not abolish differences between redifferentiated healthy and OA chondrocytes. Hypoxia-induced HIF expression is associated with hypertrophic marker and degradative enzyme downregulation and increased measures of redifferentiation in both healthy and OA chondrocytes. Therefore, though HIFs may be involved in the pathogenesis of OA, conditions that promote HIF expression in vitro promote matrix accumulation and decrease degradation and hypertrophy, even in cells from OA joints.
Social regulation of maternal traits in nest-founding bumble bee (Bombus terrestris) queens
Authors: Woodard S. Hollis , Bloch Guy , Band Mark R. , Robinson Gene E.
Published: August 2013

During the nest-founding phase of the bumble bee colony cycle, queens undergo striking changes in maternal care behavior. Early in the founding phase, prior to the emergence of workers in the nest, queens are reproductive and also provision and feed their offspring. However, later in the founding phase, queens reduce their feeding of larvae and become specialized on reproduction. This transition is synchronized with the emergence of workers in the colony, who assume the task of feeding their siblings. Using a social manipulation experiment with the bumble bee Bombus terrestris, we tested the hypothesis that workers regulate the transition from feeding brood to specialization on reproduction in nest-founding bumble bee queens. Consistent with this hypothesis, we found that early-stage nest-founding queens with workers prematurely added to their nests reduce their brood-feeding behavior and increase egg laying, and likewise, late-stage nest-founding queens increase their brood-feeding behavior and decrease egg-laying when workers are removed from their nests. Further, brood-feeding and egg-laying behaviors were negatively correlated. We used Agilent microarrays designed from B. terrestris brain expressed sequenced tags (ESTs) to explore a second hypothesis, that workers alter brain gene expression in nest-founding queens. We found evidence that brain gene expression in nest-founding queens is altered by the presence of workers, with the effect being much stronger in late-stage founding queens. This study provides new insights into how the transition from feeding brood to specialization on reproduction in queen bumble bees is regulated during the nest initiation phase of the colony cycle.
Auditory sensitivity of larval zebrafish (Danio rerio) measured using a behavioral prepulse inhibition assay
Authors: Bhandiwad Ashwin A. , Zeddies David G. , Raible David W. , Rubel Edwin W. , Sisneros Joseph A.
Published: August 2013

Zebrafish (Danio rerio) have become a valuable model for investigating the molecular genetics and development of the inner ear in vertebrates. In this study, we employed a prepulse inhibition (PPI) paradigm to assess hearing in larval wild-type (AB) zebrafish during early development at 5–6 days post-fertilization (d.p.f.). We measured the PPI of the acoustic startle response in zebrafish using a 1-dimensional shaker that simulated the particle motion component of sound along the fish's dorsoventral axis. The thresholds to startle-inducing stimuli were determined in 5–6 d.p.f. zebrafish, and their hearing sensitivity was then characterized using the thresholds of prepulse tone stimuli (90–1200 Hz) that inhibited the acoustic startle response to a reliable startle stimulus (820 Hz at 20 dB re. 1 m s−2). Hearing thresholds were defined as the minimum prepulse tone level required to significantly reduce the startle response probability compared with the baseline (no-prepulse) condition. Larval zebrafish showed greatest auditory sensitivity from 90 to 310 Hz with corresponding mean thresholds of −19 to −10 dB re. 1 m s−2, respectively. Hearing thresholds of prepulse tones were considerably lower than previously predicted by startle response assays. The PPI assay was also used to investigate the relative contribution of the lateral line to the detection of acoustic stimuli. After aminoglycoside-induced neuromast hair-cell ablation, we found no difference in PPI thresholds between treated and control fish. We propose that this PPI assay can be used to screen for novel zebrafish hearing mutants and to investigate the ontogeny of hearing in zebrafish and other fishes.
Hibernation physiology, freezing adaptation and extreme freeze tolerance in a northern population of the wood frog
Authors: Costanzo Jon P. , do Amaral M. Clara F. , Rosendale Andrew J. , Lee Richard E.
Published: August 2013

We investigated hibernation physiology and freeze tolerance in a population of the wood frog, Rana sylvatica, indigenous to Interior Alaska, USA, near the northernmost limit of the species' range. Winter acclimatization responses included a 233% increase in the hepatic glycogen depot that was subsidized by fat body and skeletal muscle catabolism, and a rise in plasma osmolality that reflected accrual of urea (to 106±10 μmol ml−1) and an unidentified solute (to ~73 μmol ml−1). In contrast, frogs from a cool-temperate population (southern Ohio, USA) amassed much less glycogen, had a lower uremia (28±5 μmol ml−1) and apparently lacked the unidentified solute. Alaskan frogs survived freezing at temperatures as low as −16°C, some 10–13°C below those tolerated by southern conspecifics, and endured a 2-month bout of freezing at −4°C. The profound freeze tolerance is presumably due to their high levels of organic osmolytes and bound water, which limits ice formation. Adaptive responses to freezing (−2.5°C for 48 h) and subsequent thawing (4°C) included synthesis of the cryoprotectants urea and glucose, and dehydration of certain tissues. Alaskan frogs differed from Ohioan frogs in retaining a substantial reserve capacity for glucose synthesis, accumulating high levels of cryoprotectants in brain tissue, and remaining hyperglycemic long after thawing. The northern phenotype also incurred less stress during freezing/thawing, as indicated by limited cryohemolysis and lactate accumulation. Post-glacial colonization of high latitudes by R. sylvatica required a substantial increase in freeze tolerance that was at least partly achieved by enhancing their cryoprotectant system.
Complex Formation of Etodolac with Hydrotalcite in Methanol
Authors: Hayashi Aki , Yoshida Keisuke , Nakayama Hirokazu
Published: August 2013

Etodolac (2-[(1RS)-1,8-diethyl-1,3,4,9-tetrahydropyrano[3,4-b]indol-1-yl]acetic acid) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with a bitter taste. It is slightly soluble in water. Hydrotalcite is a carbonate-type MgAl-layered double hydroxide (CO3-LDH) that is used as an antacid. A complex of etodolac with hydrotalcite was synthesized in methanol via an ion-exchange reaction. The carboxy groups of etodolac were exchanged with carbonate ions in the interlayer region of CO3-LDH. Ion exchange was confirmed by IR and 13C CP/MAS NMR spectra. The complex of nitrate-type LDH (NO3-LDH) was obtained in a mixed solvent composed of equal volumes of methanol or ethanol, and water. The complex had an interlayer distance of 2.20 nm, and a bilayer structure of etodolac in the interlayer region of the complex was observed. The uptake amount increased to 3.0 mmol per gram of CO3-LDH depending on the concentration of etodolac, reaction temperature, and reaction time. The etodolac in the interlayer region of the complex was completely released after 120 min in phosphate buffer. The release of etodolac occurred through exchange with phosphate ions. Thus, the bitterness of etodolac can be suppressed by coating it with LDH.
Edith (1869-1938) and Florence (1870-1932) Stoney, two Irish sisters and their contribution to radiology during the World War I
Authors: Guy Jean M
Published: August 2013

Edith and Florence Stoney, two sisters born in Dublin and working in London, responded to the summons of suffragists and offered themselves for medical service in World War I. Each had a strong scientific background and experience that they were able to use in setting up and running radiological services in Belgium, France, Serbia and Macedonia. The British War Office was reluctant to employ women doctors but the work Florence and her colleagues achieved persuaded Sir Alfred Keogh that Florence should be the first woman doctor to be employed in a military hospital in England.
The Protestant medical missions to China: the introduction of Western medicine with vaccination
Authors: Fu Louis
Published: August 2013

Modern medicine in China began with the arrival of Anglo-American Protestant missionaries in the early 19th century. Conditions were vastly different from the times of the Jesuits in Peking during the 17th and 18th centuries, when the priests enjoyed the endorsement of the Court and high officials. Faced with hostile and xenophobic officialdom and populace, surgeons of the British East India Company in collaboration with missionaries took the initiative. In 1805 Dr Alexander Pearson (1780-1874) introduced smallpox vaccination in Macao and Canton. Reverend Dr Robert Morrison (1782-1834) of the London Missionary Society with another East India Company Surgeon, Dr John Livingstone (1829) opened a dispensary for the poor in Macao in 1820. These pioneers paved the way for later Anglo-American medical missionaries who revolutionized medical practice in China.
The protestant medical missions to China: Dr Thomas Richardson Colledge (1796-1879) and the founding of the Macao Ophthalmic Hospital
Authors: Fu Louis
Published: August 2013

A surgeon of the British East India Company, Dr Thomas Richardson Colledge, founded the Macao Ophthalmic Hospital in 1827. This was not only the first Western hospital ever opened in China for the purpose of bringing modern medicine to the Chinese but also the precursor of similar efforts of later medical missions in China. The gratifying results of this institute proved that employing Western medicine was an effective way to introduce Christianity to China and to open her door to the outside world. Though not a missionary himself, Colledge is rightfully regarded as the originator of medical missionaries to China.
Mutational analysis of the yeast RNA helicase Sub2p reveals conserved domains required for growth, mRNA export, and genomic stability
Authors: Saguez Cyril , Gonzales Fernando A. , Schmid Manfred , Bøggild Andreas , Latrick Chrysa M. , Malagon Francisco , Putnam Andrea , Sanderson Lee , Jankowsky Eckhard , Brodersen Ditlev E. , Jensen Torben Heick
Published: August 2013

Sub2p/UAP56 is a highly conserved DEAD-box RNA helicase involved in the packaging and nuclear export of mRNA/protein particles (mRNPs). In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Sub2p is recruited to active chromatin by the pentameric THO complex and incorporated into the larger transcription–export (TREX) complex. Sub2p also plays a role in the maintenance of genome integrity as its inactivation causes severe transcription-dependent recombination of DNA. Despite the central role of Sub2p in early mRNP biology, little is known about its function. Here, we report the presence of an N-terminal motif (NTM) conserved specifically in the Sub2p branch of RNA helicases. Mutation of the NTM causes nuclear accumulation of poly(A)+ RNA and impaired growth without affecting core helicase functions. Thus, the NTM functions as an autonomous unit. Moreover, two sub2 mutants, that are deficient in ATP binding, act in a trans-dominant negative fashion for growth and induce high recombination rates in vivo. Although wild-type Sub2p is prevented access to transcribed loci in such a background, this does not mechanistically explain the phenotype.
Feeding and ecomorphology of three clupeoids in the N Aegean Sea
Authors: KARACHLE P. K. , STERGIOU K. I.
Published: August 2013

The present study examines the feeding habits of anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus), sardine (Sardina pilchardus) and round sardinella (Sardinella aurita). The results are combined with previously published information on feeding-related morphological features (i.e. mouth area, intestine length and tail area) in order to explore morphological affinities between species and the effect of ecomorphology on their co-existence. These species were mainly zooplanktivorous and no dietary differences were found with sex and season. Anchovy preyed mainly on Crustacea larvae, whereas sardine and round sardinella on Copepoda. In the majority of cases (>90%), the individual fractional trophic level of all species ranged between 3.0 and 3.5, classifying them as omnivores with preference to animals. The feeding-related morphological features differed between anchovy and the two other species, whereas only intestine length differed between sardine and round sardinella. The fact that round sardinella’s diet and morphology show a greater resemblance to those of sardine, further support the hypothesis that is a particulate feeder as sardine. Hence the three species tend to exploit the same food resources differently throughout the year. Thus, they make best use of the environment and its resources, in order to avoid competition and achieve optimum feeding conditions throughout their life cycles
First record of the polychaetous annelid Diopatra micrura Pires et al., 2010 in the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: ARIAS A. , PAXTON H.
Published: August 2013

Until now the only recognised species of the onuphid genus Diopatra in the Mediterranean Sea was D. neapolitana. This paper reports the presence of another species, D. micrura, in the western Mediterranean, occurring in shallow waters along the coasts of southeastern Spain.
Bottom trawl fishery discards in the Black Sea coast of Turkey
Authors: CEYLAN Y. , ŞAHİN C. , KALAYCI F.
Published: August 2013

The purpose of this study is to determine the amount of bycatch and discardfish caught by bottom trawlers used in the Black Sea coasts of Turkey anddiscard changes depending on the depth. The study was conducted during theSeptember 2009 – April 2010 fishing season. Twenty-one bottom trawleroperations were sampled and the catch composition was determined. A total of 26species were caught, which included 22 species of fish, 2 species of arthropods,1 species of gastropods and 1 species of bivalves. Two of these were targetspecies (Mullusbarbatus, Merlangius merlangus), while 25 species werediscarded including trash fish and specimens below the legal size. A total of2142.76 kg of biomass was caught during the operations, of which 53.99 % bycatch.The weighted discard rate was determined as 42.06% and two different groupswere identified in discards (T1: 10-57 m, T2: 72-118 m) based on the depth. Significantdifferences were identified between these depth groups (p<0.05). It was determined that the biomass (kg h-1),the evenness index (J) (p<0.05),the average species number and the species richness (D) (p<0.01) of the discards showed significant differences, but thatthe difference between species diversity (H) was negligible. No difference wasfound (p>0.05) between theecological parameters of landings.
What’s on the (publication fee) menu, who pays the bill and what should be the venue?
Authors: TSIKLIRAS A. C. , STERGIOU K. I.
Published: August 2013

We address the cost of access to knowledge and its ethical implications in ‘true’, ‘pseudo’ and ‘hybrid’ OA journals.
Flowering of the seagrass Posidonia oceanica in NW Mediterranean: is there a link with solar activity?
Authors: MONTEFALCONE M. , GIOVANNETTI E. , MORRI C. , PEIRANO A. , BIANCHI C. N.
Published: August 2013

Time series on the leaf biometry and rhizome production of the endemic Mediterranean seagrass Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile were investigated in a meadow of the Ligurian Sea (NW Mediterranean) in order to assess changes in the plant growth during a massive flowering event occurred in 2003, in coincidence with the warmest summer temperatures recorded in the last centuries. P. oceanica exhibited the highest values of leaf surface area during the flowering year and the highest values of rhizome production in the previous year. The years immediately following the flowering event were characterized by a decrease in both parameters. Comparison of the years of massive flowering events reported in the literature at the whole Mediterranean-wide spatial scale with the historical series (spanning the last 50 years) of the air temperature and of the sunspot number suggested that intense solar activity, and not warmer temperature per se, was likely to be the main trigger of massive flowering events in Posidonia oceanica.
Asimilación fonética anticipatoria de las consonantes nasales en los vocablos polacos y españoles
Authors: Urbanik-Pęk Weronika
Published: August 2013

REGRESSIVE ASSIMILATION OF NASALS IN POLISH AND SPANISH SOUND SYSTEMS

The article concerns the phenomenon of regressive assimilation of nasals in Polish and Spanish sound systems. The basic information is followed by the description of the examples of the assimilations which involve the change of place of articulation in respective languages. The author shows the differences in the articulation of particular sounds and emphasizes the peculiarity of Polish in which the hard and soft and voiced and voiceless classifications of consonants can be observed. Polish also uses nasal vowels whose phonetic realization is similar to that of nasal consonants.
Deep-vein thrombosis after resection of musculoskeletal tumours of the lower limb
Authors: Yamaguchi T. , Matsumine A. , Niimi R. , Nakamura T. , Matsubara T. , Asanuma K. , Hasegawa M. , Sudo A.
Published: August 2013

The aim of this study was to define the incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and risk factors for the development of deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) after the resection of a musculoskeletal tumour. A total of 94 patients who underwent resection of a musculoskeletal tumour between January 2003 and December 2005 were prospectively studied. There were 42 men and 52 women with a mean age of 54.4 years (18 to 86). All patients wore intermittent pneumatic compression devices and graduated compression stockings. Ultrasound examination of the lower limbs was conducted to screen for DVT between the fifth and ninth post-operative days.

DVT was detected in 21 patients (22%). Of these, two were symptomatic (2%). One patient (1%) had a fatal pulmonary embolism. Patients aged ≥ 70 years had an increased risk of DVT (p = 0.004).

The overall incidence of DVT (both symptomatic and asymptomatic) after resection of a musculoskeletal tumour with mechanical prophylaxis was high. It seems that both mechanical and anticoagulant prophylaxis is needed to prevent VTE in patients who have undergone the resection of a musculoskeletal tumour.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1280–4.
The effect of synovectomy on bleeding and clinical outcomes for total knee replacement
Authors: Zhaoning X. , Xu Y. , Shaoqi T. , Baiqiang H. , Kang S.
Published: August 2013

A total of 187 patients with primary osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee undergoing total knee replacement (TKR) were randomly divided into two groups, one of which underwent synovectomy. The patients and assessors were blinded to the randomisation both before and after surgery. The duration of surgery, hospitalisation period, concealed bleeding, drainage volume, blood transfusion rate and range of movement of the knee at three days after the operation were analysed. Patients were followed up at four weeks and 12 months after their operation, and a visual analogue score (VAS) for pain, Knee Society score (KSS) and a patellar ballottement test were compared between the groups.

The mean amount of concealed bleeding was higher in the synovectomy group compared with the control group (1.24 l (0.08 to 3.28) vs 1.03 l (0.16 to 2.94); p = 0.042), as was the mean drainage volume (0.90 l (0.35 to 1.81) vs 0.81 (0.25 to 1.65); p = 0.030). The mean operating time was also higher in the synovectomy group compared with the controls (1.50 hours (1.34 to 1.75) vs 1.41 hours (1.21 to 1.79); p = 0.006). There were no significant differences in blood transfusion rate (p = 0.882), hospital stay (p = 0.805) or range of movement of the knee (p = 0.413) between the two groups. At four weeks and 12 months post-operatively there were no statistically significant differences in any of the measured parameters. We concluded that synovectomy confers no clinical advantages in TKR for primary OA while subjecting patients to higher levels of bleeding and longer operating times.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1197–200.
The effect of the posterior slope of the tibial plateau osteotomy with a rotational error on tibial component malalignment in total knee replacement
Authors: Tsukeoka T. , Tsuneizumi Y. , Lee T. H.
Published: August 2013

We performed a CT-based computer simulation study to determine how the relationship between any inbuilt posterior slope in the proximal tibial osteotomy and cutting jig rotational orientation errors affect tibial component alignment in total knee replacement. Four different posterior slopes (3°, 5°, 7° and 10°), each with a rotational error of 5°, 10°, 15°, 20°, 25° or 30°, were simulated. Tibial cutting block malalignment of 20° of external rotation can produce varus malalignment of 2.4° and 3.5° with a 7° and a 10° sloped cutting jig, respectively. Care must be taken in orientating the cutting jig in the sagittal plane when making a posterior sloped proximal tibial osteotomy in total knee replacement.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1201–3.
Dopamine Regulates Two Classes of Primate Prefrontal Neurons That Represent Sensory Signals
Authors: Jacob Simon N. , Ott Torben , Nieder Andreas
Published: August 2013

The lateral prefrontal cortex (PFC), a hub of higher-level cognitive processing, is strongly modulated by midbrain dopamine (DA) neurons. The cellular mechanisms have been comprehensively studied in the context of short-term memory, but little is known about how DA regulates sensory inputs to PFC that precede and give rise to such memory activity. By preparing recipient cortical circuits for incoming signals, DA could be a powerful determinant of downstream cognitive processing. Here, we tested the hypothesis that prefrontal DA regulates the representation of sensory signals that are required for perceptual decisions. In rhesus monkeys trained to report the presence or absence of visual stimuli at varying levels of contrast, we simultaneously recorded extracellular single-unit activity and applied DA to the immediate vicinity of the neurons by micro-iontophoresis. We found that DA modulation of prefrontal neurons is not uniform but tailored to specialized neuronal classes. In one population of neurons, DA suppressed activity with high temporal precision but preserved signal/noise ratio. Neurons in this group had short visual response latencies and comprised all recorded narrow-spiking, putative interneurons. In a distinct population, DA increased excitability and enhanced signal/noise ratio by reducing response variability. These neurons had longer visual response latencies and were composed exclusively of broad-spiking, putative pyramidal neurons. By gating sensory inputs to PFC and subsequently strengthening the representation of sensory signals, DA might play an important role in shaping how the PFC initiates appropriate behavior in response to changes in the sensory environment.
Target-Specific Vulnerability of Excitatory Synapses Leads to Deficits in Associative Memory in a Model of Intellectual Disorder
Authors: Houbaert Xander , Zhang Chun-Lei , Gambino Frédéric , Lepleux Marilyn , Deshors Melissa , Normand Elisabeth , Levet Florian , Ramos Mariana , Billuart Pierre , Chelly Jamel , Herzog Etienne , Humeau Yann
Published: August 2013

Intellectual disorders (IDs) have been regularly associated with morphological and functional deficits at glutamatergic synapses in both humans and rodents. How these synaptic deficits may lead to the variety of learning and memory deficits defining ID is still unknown. Here we studied the functional and behavioral consequences of the ID geneil1rapl1deficiency in mice and reported thatil1rapl1constitutive deletion alters cued fear memory formation. Combinedin vivoandin vitroapproaches allowed us to unveil a causal relationship between a marked inhibitory/excitatory (I/E) imbalance in dedicated amygdala neuronal subcircuits and behavioral deficits. Cell-targeted recordings further demonstrated a morpho-functional impact of the mutation at thalamic projections contacting principal cells, whereas the same afferents on interneurons are unaffected by the lack of Il1rapl1. We thus propose that excitatory synapses have a heterogeneous vulnerability toil1rapl1gene constitutive mutation and that alteration of a subset of excitatory synapses in neuronal circuits is sufficient to generate permanent cognitive deficits.
Paired Associative Stimulation Enforces the Communication between Interconnected Areas
Authors: Veniero Domenica , Ponzo Viviana , Koch Giacomo
Published: August 2013

Paired associative stimulation (PAS) protocols induce forms of spike-timing-dependent-plasticity (STDP) when paired pulses are repeatedly applied with different timing over interconnected cortical areas such as the posterior parietal cortex (PPC) and the primary motor cortex (M1). However, the assessment of PAS effects is usually limited to M1 through recording of motor-evoked potential (MEP) amplitude. Here, by combining transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) with EEG we aimed at investigating PAS effects over both areas (PPC, M1) and the modulation induced on their connectivity in humans. In different PAS conditions, PPC preceded or followed M1 TMS by 5 ms. We found that TMS-evoked potentials (TEPs) changed differently according to the long-term depression (LTD) or potentiation (LTP) after-effect assessed by MEPs, but did not vary at PPC level. Moreover, there was no change in local oscillatory power. However, there was a remarkable increase of coherence between the PPC and the M1 areas. When the PAS protocol induced LTD as revealed by MEPs, there was a specific increase of the coherence between PPC and M1 within the beta band. On the contrary, when PAS induced LTP, the coherence crucially increased in the alpha band. The same LTP results were confirmed when rotating the stimulating coil in M1 during the PAS protocol. In conclusion, we report new evidence that opposite STDP-like effects induced by corticocortical PAS are associated with increased communication between involved brain areas and that antithetic forms of STDP-like after-effects result in distinct cortical rhythms connectivity changes.
MHCI Requires MEF2 Transcription Factors to Negatively Regulate Synapse Density during Development and in Disease
Authors: Elmer Bradford M. , Estes Myka L. , Barrow Stephanie L. , McAllister A. Kimberley
Published: August 2013

Major histocompatibility complex class I (MHCI) molecules negatively regulate cortical connections and are implicated in neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorders and schizophrenia. However, the mechanisms that mediate these effects are unknown. Here, we report a novel MHCI signaling pathway that requires the myocyte enhancer factor 2 (MEF2) transcription factors. In young rat cortical neurons, MHCI regulates MEF2 in an activity-dependent manner and requires calcineurin-mediated activation of MEF2 to limit synapse density. Manipulating MEF2 alone alters synaptic strength and GluA1 content, but not synapse density, implicating activity-dependent MEF2 activation as critical for MHCI signaling. The MHCI-MEF2 pathway identified here also mediates the effects of a mouse model of maternal immune activation (MIA) on connectivity in offspring. MHCI and MEF2 levels are higher, and synapse density is lower, on neurons from MIA offspring. Most important, dysregulation of MHCI and MEF2 is required for the MIA-induced reduction in neural connectivity. These results identify a previously unknown MHCI-calcineurin-MEF2 signaling pathway that regulates the establishment of cortical connections and mediates synaptic defects caused by MIA, a risk factor for autism spectrum disorders and schizophrenia.
Prenatal Exposure to Nicotine Stimulates Neurogenesis of Orexigenic Peptide-Expressing Neurons in Hypothalamus and Amygdala
Authors: Chang Guo-Qing , Karatayev Olga , Leibowitz Sarah F.
Published: August 2013

Animal and clinical studies show that gestational exposure to nicotine increases the propensity of offspring to consume nicotine, but the precise mechanism mediating this behavioral phenomenon is unclear. The present study in Sprague Dawley rats examined the possibility that the orexigenic peptide systems, enkephalin (ENK) and orexin (OX), which are stimulated by nicotine in adult animals and promote consummatory behavior, may be similarly responsive to nicotine's stimulatory effectin uterowhile having long-term behavioral consequences. The results demonstrated that nicotine exposure during gestation at low doses (0.75 or 1.5 mg/kg/d) significantly increased mRNA levels and density of neurons that express ENK in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus and central nucleus of the amygdala, OX, and another orexigenic peptide, melanin-concentrating hormone, in the perifornical lateral hypothalamus in preweanling offspring. These effects persisted in the absence of nicotine, at least until puberty. Colabeling of the cell proliferation marker BrdU with the neuronal marker NeuN and peptides revealed a marked stimulatory effect of prenatal nicotine on neurogenesis, but not gliogenesis, and also on the number of newly generated neurons expressing ENK, OX, or melanin-concentrating hormone. During adolescence, offspring also exhibited significant behavioral changes, increased consumption of nicotine and other substances of abuse, ethanol and a fat-rich diet, with no changes in chow and water intake or body weight. These findings reveal a marked sensitivity during gestation of the orexigenic peptide neurons to low nicotine doses that may increase the offspring's propensity to overconsume substances of abuse during adolescence.
The Role of Weapons in the Second Indochina War
Authors: Loicano Martin
Published: August 2013

This article examines attempts by the Second Republic of Vietnam (RVN) to call attention to perceived and real quantitative and qualitative disparities of weapons between their forces and those of their enemies. It also looks at the way Chinese, Democratic Republic of Vietnam, and US propaganda efforts complicated these attempts. Sài Gòn’s leaders tried and failed to gain additional military aid, to use weapons to improve their relations with the Southern Vietnamese public, and to redress what they saw as inaccurate information about their own military strength and that of their enemies.
Cell-type-specific regulation of genes involved in testicular lipid metabolism: fatty acid-binding proteins, diacylglycerol acyltransferases, and perilipin 2
Authors: Oresti Gerardo M , García-López Jesús , Aveldaño Marta I , del Mazo Jesús
Published: August 2013

Male germ cell differentiation entails the synthesis and remodeling of membrane polar lipids and the formation of triacylglycerols (TAGs). This requires fatty acid-binding proteins (FABPs) for intracellular fatty acid traffic, a diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT) to catalyze the final step of TAG biosynthesis, and a TAG storage mode. We examined the expression of genes encoding five members of the FABP family and two DGAT proteins, as well as the lipid droplet protein perilipin 2 (PLIN2), during mouse testis development and in specific cells from seminiferous epithelium.Fabp5expression was distinctive of Sertoli cells and consequently was higher in prepubertal than in adult testis. The expression ofFabp3increased in testis during postnatal development, associated with the functional differentiation of interstitial cells, but was low in germ cells.Fabp9, together withFabp12, was prominently expressed in the latter. Their transcripts increased from spermatocytes to spermatids and, interestingly, were highest in spermatid-derived residual bodies (RB). Both Sertoli and germ cells, which produce neutral lipids and store them in lipid droplets, expressedPlin2. Yet, whileDgat1was detected in Sertoli cells,Dgat2accumulated in germ cells with a similar pattern of expression asFabp9. These results correlated with polyunsaturated fatty acid-rich TAG levels also increasing with mouse germ cell differentiation highest in RB, connecting DGAT2 with the biosynthesis of such TAGs. The age- and germ cell type-associated increases inFabp9,Dgat2, andPlin2levels are thus functionally related in the last stages of germ cell differentiation.
Working Hours and Cardiovascular Disease in Korean Workers: A Case‐control Study
Authors: Jeong Inchul , Rhie Jeongbae , Kim Inah , Ryu Innshil , Jung Pil Kyun , Park Yoo Seok , Lim Yong‐Su , Kim Hyoung‐Ryoul , Park Shin‐Goo , Im Hyoung‐June , Lee Mi‐Young , Won Jong‐Uk
Published: August 2013

Working Hours and Cardiovascular Disease in Korean Workers: A Case‐control Study: Inchul JEONG, et al. Graduate School of Public Health, Yonsei University, Republic of Korea—

Objectives

Long working hours can negatively impact a worker's health. The objective of this study was to examine the association between working hours and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and compare the degree of risk based on CVD subtypes in Korean workers.

Methods

This study was a case‐control study of the patients registered in the Occupational Cardiovascular Diseases Surveillance 2010. The cases included 348 patients diagnosed with a CVD (123 cerebral infarction, 69 intracerebral hemorrhage, 57 subarachnoid hemorrhage, 99 acute myocardial infarction). Controls were 769 participants with no history of CVDs matched for gender, age, type of occupation, and region. Participants' working hours in the previous week and the average working hours over the past three months were assessed to examine short‐term and long‐term effects.

Results

After adjusting for confounding factors, the odds ratios (ORs) for CVDs in the short‐term were 2.66 (95% Confidence interval (CI) :1.78−3.99) for working ≤40 hours, 1.85 (95% CI: 1.22−2.81) for working 50.1−60 hours and 4.23 (95% CI: 2.81−6.39) for working >60 hours compared with the 40.1−50‐hour working group. The ORs in the long‐term were 2.90 (95% CI: 1.86−4.52) for working ≤40 hours, 1.73 (95% CI: 1.03−2.90) for working 48.1−52 hours and 3.46 (95% CI: 2.38−5.03) for working >52 hours compared with the 40.1−48‐hour working group.

Conclusions

Long working hours are related to an increased risk of CVDs, and the degree of risk differs based on CVD subtype. Short working hours are also related to an increased risk for CVDs. More prospective studies targeting specific disease risks are required.
Efficacy of Guided Bone Regeneration Using Composite Bone Graft and Resorbable Collagen Membrane in Seibert's Class I Ridge Defects: Radiological Evaluation
Authors: Pushparajan Saravanan , Thiagarajan Ramakrishnan , Namasi Ambalavanan , Emmadi Pamela , Saravanan Harshini
Published: August 2013

The purpose of the study was to evaluate radiologically the efficacy of guided bone regeneration using composite bone graft (autogenous bone graft and anorganic bovine bone graft [Bio-Oss]) along with resorbable collagen membrane (BioMend Extend) in the augmentation of Seibert's class I ridge defects in maxilla. Bone width was evaluated using computerized tomography at day 0 and at day 180 at 2 mm, 4 mm, and 6 mm from the crest. There was a statistically significant increase in bone width between day 0 and day 180 at 2 mm, 4 mm, and 6 mm from the crest. The results of the study demonstrated an increase in bone width of Seibert's class I ridge defects in the maxilla of the study patients.
Review of Current Literature
Authors: Rutkowski James L.
Published: August 2013

Ewers R, Lambrecht JT. Oral Implants Bioactivating Concepts. Hanover Park, Ill: Quintessence Publishing Co, Ltd; 2013.
Early respiratory evaluation should be carried out systematically in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Taveira Fernanda Machado , Teixeira Antônio Lúcio , Domingues Renan Barros
Published: August 2013

The present study aimed at evaluating respiratory parameters in multiple sclerosis (MS). The sample comprised 30 patients with MS diagnosis and 30 healthy subjects, matched by gender and age. Neurological assessment, expanded disability status scale (EDSS), manovacuometry, and peak flow (PEF) were performed. Patients with MS had lower values of maximum inspiratory (MIP) and expiratory (MEP) pressures and PEF compared to healthy controls. It was shown that respiratory impairment may be present in MS patients with low functional disability by EDSS. The data suggest that manovacuometry and PEF determination should be carried out systematically in patients with MS, and may be a reliable tool for the early detection of respiratory impairment allowing early respiratory rehabilitation.
Monitoring respiratory muscle strength assists in early diagnosis of respiratory dysfunction as opposed to the isolated use of pulmonary function evaluation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Fregonezi Guilherme , Araújo Palomma Russelly Saldanha , Macêdo Tathiana Lindemberg Ferreira , Dourado Junior Mario Emilio , Resqueti Vanessa Regiane , Andrade Armele de Fátima Dornelas de
Published: August 2013

ObjectiveIt was study the relationship between respiratory muscle strength and forced vital capacity (FVC) in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) versus healthy subjects.MethodsPulmonary function and respiratory muscle strength [maximal inspiratory (PImax), maximal expiratory (PEmax) and sniff nasal inspiratory pressure (SNIP)] were assessed in patients with ALS and healthy subjects, matched using cutoffs established in the literature for impaired pulmonary function and respiratory muscle weakness.ResultsTwenty-eight ALS patients and 28 healthy subjects were studied. We found sensitivity and specificity for PImax, PEmax and SNIP of 75/58%, 81/67% and 75/67%. The Receiver Operating Characteristic curve (ROC curve) indicated that the variables PImax, PEmax and SNIP can identify differences in respiratory muscle strength between ALS and healthy individuals at 0.89, 0.9 and 0.82, respectively. A positive correlation was recorded between FVC (%) versus SNIP, PImax and PEmax.ConclusionIn ALS, monitoring respiratory muscle strength assists in early diagnosis of respiratory dysfunction as opposed to the isolated use of FVC.
Higher mortality rate is associated with advanced age and periodic lateralized epileptiform discharges in patients with refractory status epilepticus
Authors: Liberalesso Paulo Breno Noronha , Garzon Eliana , Yacubian Elza M.T. , Sakamoto Américo C.
Published: August 2013

ObjectiveTo evaluate clinical data, electroencephalogram, etiology, classification, treatment, morbidity, and mortality in acute refractory status epilepticus.MethodsFifteen patients, mean age of 41.3 years-old, six males, with refractory status epilepticus, were retrospectively studied. All of them were followed by serial electroencephalogram or continuous electroencephalographic monitoring.ResultsThe most common comorbidity was hypertension. Seven (46.7%) patients were diagnosed with previous symptomatic focal epilepsy. More than one etiology was identified in 40.0% of the cases. Status epilepticus partial complex was the most common (n=14, 93.3%), and discrete seizures were the most observed initial ictal pattern. Continuous intravenous midazolam was used in nine (60.0%) patients and continuous thiopental in three (20.0%). Nine (60.0%) participants died, one (6.6%) had neurological sequelae, and five (33.3%) presented no neurological sequelae.ConclusionsHigher mortality rate was associated with advanced age and periodic lateralized epileptiform discharges. Midazolam proved to be a safe drug. The refractory status epilepticus is related to high mortality.
Heterotaxy syndrome: a case report
Authors: Carneiro Daniel de Souza , Arantes Jamil Hussein de , Souza Gustavo Veloso de , Barreto Aline Santos , Cardoso Mychaell Luciano , Gontijo Flávia
Published: August 2013

The present report describes the findings at chest computed tomography angiography of a 28-year-old female patient with heterotaxy syndrome. This syndrome consists of a variety of anomalies of position and morphology of thoracoabdominal organs which do not follow the situs solitus or situs inversus arrangement. Imaging studies play a fundamental role in the individualization of the approach to the patient.
In-signifiances d'acéphale
Authors: Surya Michel
Published: August 2013

L'article se propose de discuter la lecture de Bataille entreprise par Blanchot dans La Communauté inavouable, en prenant pour point de repère et de tension l'épisode Acéphale. On y spécule, ainsi, sur des notions comme celles de communauté, communisme, amitié, sacrifice.
O touro confrontado: o homem ébrio
Authors: Marmande Francis
Published: August 2013

Abordando especialmente os anos 1930-1940, o texto ensaia uma aproximação do contexto de produção da obra de Georges Bataille sem perder de vista seu aspecto multifacetado. Filosofia, literatura, política, moral, sociologia, nenhum caminho demasiado direto pode alcançar o que ela tem de essencial, em sua dimensão a um só tempo sagrada, louca, erótica, malévola, provocadora.
Interação genótipo-ambiente para características sob efeito maternal na raça Nelore nos estados do Maranhão, Mato Grosso e Pará
Authors: Nepomuceno Leandro Lopes , Lira Thaymisson Santos de , Lopes Fernando Brito , Lôbo Raysildo Barbosa , Ferreira Jorge Luís
Published: August 2013

Objetivou-se analisar a interação genótipo-ambiente sobre os pesos aos 120 e 210 dias de bovinos da raça Nelore, criados a pasto, nos Estados do Maranhão, Mato Grosso e Pará. O estudo foi realizado utilizando-se de dados de campo da raça Nelore cedidos pelo Programa de Melhoramento Genético da Raça Nelore (PMGRN-ANCP), totalizando 37.032 animais registrados desde 1993 a 2010. As estimativas médias e desvios padrão para pesos padronizados aos 120 dias (P120), e aos 210 dias (P210) de idade para os estados do MA, MT e PA foram de 123,43±17,06; 133,91±19,62; 130,07±16,03kg (P120), 181,83±34,15; 194,73±28,52; 189,76±23,45kg (P210), respectivamente. As correlações genéticas entre os desempenhos das progênies de um mesmo reprodutor nos diferentes estados variaram de 0,42 (Maranhão-Mato Grosso), 0,38 (Maranhão-Para) a 0,70 (Mato Grosso-Para) para P120; de 0,49 (Maranhão-Mato Grosso), 0,13 (Maranhão-Para) a 0,40 (Mato Grosso-Para) para P210. As menores correlações genéticas, em ambas as características estudadas, foram observadas entre Maranhão e Pará, estados com condições de ambiente mais contrastante. Estes resultados denotam a existência de interação genótipo-ambiente, tanto no peso aos 120 dias quanto no peso aos 210 dias de idade, o que influenciou diretamente a predição do valor genético dos reprodutores, resultando em classificação diferente de um mesmo touro em cada estado. Portanto, faz-se necessário mais bem estudar inclusão desta interação nos modelos de avaliação genética dos animais, pois a seleção e reprodução do melhor touro apresentarão impactos econômicos distintos em cada estado e influenciará a tomada de decisão dos criadores.
Determination of the force systems produced by different configurations of tear drop orthodontic loops
Authors: Thiesen Guilherme , Shimizu Roberto Hideo , Valle Caio Vinicius Martins do , Valle-Corotti Karyna Martins do , Pereira Jefferson Ricardo , Conti Paulo Cesar Rodrigues
Published: August 2013

OBJECTIVE: To determine the mechanical characteristics of teardrop loop with and without helix fabricated using different metal alloy compositions (stainless steel and beta-titanium), submitted to different intensities of bends preactivation (0º and 40º), and with different cross-sectional dimension of the wire used to build these loops (0.017 x 0.025-in and 0.019 x 0.025-in). METHODS: Eighty loops used to close spaces were submitted to mechanical tests. The magnitudes of horizontal force, the moment/force ratio, and the load/deflection ratio produced by the specimens were quantified. Loops were submitted to a total activation of 5.0 mm and the values were registered for each 1.0 mm of activation. For statistic data analysis, a analysis of variance was performed and a Tukey's Multiple Comparison test was used as supplement, considering a 5% level of significance. RESULTS: In general, teardrop loops with helix produced lower magnitudes of horizontal force and load/deflection ratio, and higher moment/force ratio than teardrop loops without helix. Among all analyzed variables, metal alloy composition presented greater influence in the horizontal force and in the load/deflection ratio. The moment/force ratio showed to be more influenced by the preactivation of loops for space closure.