bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rodent Whisker Barrerls: Windows Into Cerebral Cortical Function
Authors: Simons DJ
Published: December 2017

The rodent somatosensory cortex contains readily identifiable neuronal networks related to individual facial whiskers. Knowledge of how these circuits "work" can provide a bridge between understanding the biophysical properties of individual neurons and the large-scale framework of linked cortical columns that comprises the cortical representation of the tactile environment.
From Genetically Altered Mice to Integrative Physiology
Authors: Gassmann Max , Hennet Thierry
Published: December 2017

Transgenic and gene-targeted mice permit the study of the function(s) of the single gene(s) in a whole organism, thereby relating molecular biology and integrative physiology. To demonstrate the potential of transgenic models, we present in this review some physiologically relevant information obtained from genetically engineered mice.
Unraveling the Mystery of Goldblatt Hypertension
Authors: Navar L. Gabriel , Zou Lixian , Von Thun Annette , Tarng Wang Chi , Imig John D. , Mitchell Kenneth D.
Published: December 2017

In hypertension caused by unilateral renal artery stenosis, the nonstenotic kidney becomes renin depleted but fails to prevent hypertension. The nonstenotic kidney mysteriously develops elevated intrarenal angiotensin II (ANG II) content. Rats chronically infused with ANG II exhibit a similar hypertensive process. The augmentation of intrarenal ANG II is due to receptor-mediated internalization and continued ANG II formation, which provide a hypertensinogenic stimulus.
Toward Multifactorial Hypothalamic Regulation of Anterior Pituitary Hormone Secretion
Authors: Crowley W. R.
Published: December 2017

The hypothalamus regulates the secretion of anterior pituitary hormones via release of releasing hormones into the hypophysial portal vasculature. Additional neuromessengers act at the pituitary to modulate responses to the hypothalamic hormones. For example, neuropeptide Y enhances the effect of gonadotropin-releasing hormone and the response to the prolactin-inhibiting hormone dopamine.
Renal Transport of Urate in Humans
Authors: Roch-Ramel Françoise , Guisan Barbara
Published: December 2017

The theory of the “four-component model” of urate excretion in humans is reevaluated, considering that a decrease in urate excretion induced by drugs like pyrazinamide or by endogenous compounds like lactate and ketone bodies might be a result of stimulation of urate reabsorption and not, as previously considered, of inhibition of urate secretion.
Stimulation of Glucose Transport by Hypoxia: Signals and Mechanisms
Authors: Behrooz Alireza , Ismail-Beigi Faramarz
Published: December 2017

Glucose transport is acutely stimulated by hypoxia through enhanced GLUT-1 and GLUT-4 glucose transporter function. GLUT-1 expression is also stimulated by hypoxia or azide. Moreover, hypoxia per se, acting through hypoxia-inducible factor 1, enhances GLUT-1 transcription. GLUT-1 is the first gene whose transcription is dually stimulated in response to hypoxia and inhibition of oxidative phosphorylation.
Vascular Structure Determines Pulmonary Blood Flow Distribution
Authors: Hlastala Michael P. , Glenny Robb W.
Published: December 2017

Scientific knowledge develops through the evolution of new concepts. This process is usually driven by new methodologies that provide observations not previously available. Understanding of pulmonary blood flow determinants advanced significantly in the 1960s and is now changing rapidly again, because of increased spatial resolution of regional pulmonary blood flow measurements.
Adhesion Molecules: The Path to a New Understanding of Acute Inflammation
Authors: Walzog Barbara , Gaehtgens Peter
Published: December 2017

About 100 years after the definition of the basic principles of inflammation, the identification of the underlying molecular mechanisms provides a new understanding of the inflammatory response. The specificity and diversity of the adhesion molecules involved in leukocyte extravasation account for the ordered leukocyte recruitment and activation in inflammation.
Mast Cell-Nerve Interactions
Authors: Bauer Omri , Razin Ehud
Published: December 2017

Mutual associations between nerves and mast cells have been observed in normal conditions and in pathological ones such as human irritable bowel syndrome, atopic dermatitis, interstitial cystitis, and more. Here we review the recent literature in this field, putting emphasis on the enteric, skin, and urinary systems, and the pathophysiological implications of this interaction in them.
Tryptophan-Free Diets: A Physiological Tool to Study Brain Serotonin Function
Authors: Fadda F.
Published: December 2017

Tryptophan-free diets produce a specific reduction of brain serotonin synthesis and release. This method for lowering neural serotonin function has been extensively used in both laboratory animals and humans to study the role of serotonin in a variety of behaviors, such as aggressiveness, sleep, sexual behavior, anxiety, mood, memory, and so forth.
Toward an Integrative Concept of Control of Total Body Sodium
Authors: Reinhardt H. Wolfgang , Seeliger Erdmann
Published: December 2017

Total body sodium (TBSodium) is a major determinant of body water and arterial pressure. Several observations, in particular that of a “sodium memory,” indicate that TBSodium is a controlled variable. Various regulatory elements are involved, e.g., the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, atrial receptors, and renal arterial pressure. Balance studies in dogs provide new insights into their contributions to TBSodium control.
Propagation of Cell Death During Myocardial Reperfusion
Authors: Garcia-Dorado David , Ruiz-Meana Marisol
Published: December 2017

During myocardial reperfusion, increased cytosolic Ca2+ concentration may cause hypercontracture and cell death. Hypercontracture can propagate to adjacent cells by a gap junction-dependent mechanism. This propagation explains infarct geometry and increases the final extent of necrosis. Its prevention may represent a new therapeutic strategy for treating patients with myocardial infarction.
UTP as an Extracellular Signaling Molecule
Authors: Lazarowski Eduardo R. , Boucher Richard C.
Published: December 2017

In addition to their central role in many biochemical processes, uridine nucleotides are important extracellular signaling molecules that regulate a broad spectrum of cell functions via activation of P2Y2, P2Y4, and P2Y6 receptors. Cellular release of UTP provides a mechanism for autocrine control of calcium- or protein kinase C–dependent processes.
Ion Channels and Transporters on the Move
Authors: Schwab Albrecht
Published: December 2017

Cell migration plays a crucial role in a variety of (patho)physiological processes such as immune defense, wound healing, and formation of tumor metastases. Detailed models have been developed to describe cytoskeletal mechanisms of migration. However, evidence is accumulating that the activity of ion channels and transporters is also required for optimal cell locomotion.
An Autocrine/Paracrine Mechanism Triggered by Myocardial Stretch Induces Changes in Contractility
Authors: Cingolani Horacio E. , Pérez Néstor G. , Camilión de Hurtado María C.
Published: December 2017

An autocrine/paracrine mechanism is triggered by stretching the myocardium. This mechanism involves release of angiotensin II, release/increased formation of endothelin, activation of the Na+/H+ exchanger, increase in intracellular Na+, and the increase in the Ca2+ transient that underlies the slow force response to stretch. The autocrine/paracrine mechanism could explain how changes in afterload alter cardiac contractility.
Stimulus-Secretion Coupling and Mitochondrial Metabolism in Steroid-Secreting Cells
Authors: Spät András , Pitter János G. , Rohács Tibor , Szabadkai György
Published: December 2017

Ca2+signal in high-Ca2+perimitochondrial microdomains is amplified within the mitochondrial matrix and activates Ca2+-dependent dehydrogenases. In steroid-secreting cells, small cytoplasmic Ca2+signals may also augment mitochondrial Ca2+concentration. The ensuing formation of NADH and NADPH may have an essential role in supporting the increased steroid secretion.
Mechanisms of Surfactant Exocytosis in Alveolar Type II Cells In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Dietl Paul , Haller Thomas , Mair Norbert , Frick Manfred
Published: December 2017

Surfactant secretion must be regulated to maintain a low surface tension in the lung during various conditions such as exercise. In vitro studies reveal a slow, unique exocytotic process at the interface of stimulated and constitutive exocytosis. The exocytotic mechanisms and sites of regulation in vivo, however, are still poorly understood.
Troponin I Isoforms and Chimeras: Tuning the Molecular Switch of Cardiac Contraction
Authors: Westfall Margaret V. , Metzger Joseph M.
Published: December 2017

Troponin I, a key myofilament protein, plays a critical role in regulating force generation in striated muscle by acting as a Ca2+-dependent molecular switch. Domains contributing to the functional properties of troponin I have recently been defined in intact myofilaments of adult cardiac myocytes. This has been attained using gene transfer of chimeras derived from two troponin I isoforms expressed during cardiac development.
Of Mice and Worms: Novel Insights Into ClC-2 Anion Channel Physiology
Authors: Strange Kevin
Published: December 2017

ClC anion channels are found in all major groups of organisms. Recent studies in nematodes and mice suggest that the function and regulation of ClC-2 have been conserved over vast evolutionary time spans. These studies illustrate the experimental advantages of using genomically defined nonmammalian model organisms for characterizing ClC channel functional genomics.
Is there a Mind? Electrophysiology of Unconscious Patients
Authors: Kotchoubey Boris , Lang Simone , Bostanov Vladimir , Birbaumer Niels
Published: December 2017

Event related brain potentials (ERPs) provide information about cortical processing in severe neurological patients whose cognitive abilities cannot be expressed in their behavior. In coma, ERPs contribute to the prediction of the outcome. In a vegetative state, ERPs uncover the functional state of cortical processes. The significance of ERPs in the neurophysiological study of consciousness is discussed.
Current Concepts of the Immunological Function of the Thymus
Authors: Miller J. F. A. P. , Osoba David
Published: December 2017

J. F. A. P. Miller and David Osoba, “Current Concepts of the Immunological Function of the Thymus,” Page 472, lines 9–11, should read:

Discriminant spleen assays performed in thymectomized mice reconstituted with spleen cells showed that the restoration of immunological capacity was attributable to donor cells (136).
Brown Fat and Thermogenesis
Authors: Smith Robert Emrie , Horwitz Barbara A.
Published: December 2017

Robert Emrie Smith and Barbara A. Horwitz, “Brown Fat and Thermogenesis”

See PDF for Table
Stimulus-response coupling in neurohypophysial peptide target cells
Authors: Jard S. , Bockaert J.
Published: December 2017

Recent data on the effects of neurohypophysial peptides at the cellular level are discussed with respect to the two basic processes involved in peptide hormone action--i.e., specific recognition of the information contained in the hormonal molecule and the transformation of this information into a stimulus leading to the final biological response. Four main aspects of this general problem are considered. A. Hormone-Receptor Interaction: Recent contributions in this field concern partial analysis of the three-dimensional conformation of oxytocin and vasopressin moleculal cells of the mammalian kidney. Conformational analysis of oxytocin and vasopressin molecules leads to the conclusion that, in solution, these peptides probably have a compact and highly stabilized three-dimensional configuration. Models have been proposed that provide a valuable clue to the interpretation of structure-activity relationships among natural hormones and many structural analogues. Binding studies with tritiated oxytocin and vasopressin have permitted determination of the kinetic parameters of hormone-receptor interaction in amphibian epithelial cells and mammalian kidney. B. Stimulus Generation: The nature of the primary stimulus generated by hormone-receptor interaction is still unknown. In the epithelial target cells of the amphibian skin and bladder and of the mammalian kidney, one of the first consequences of hormone-receptor interaction is the activation of membrane-bound adenylate cyclase. Analysis of the correlations between hormonal binding and adenylate cyclase activation suggests that activation is a function of receptor occupation rather than of the number of hormonal molecules interacting with the receptor per unit of time. On medullary adenylate cyclase of pig kidney, the relation between receptor occupancy and enzyme activation was found to be complex and nonlinear. The effects of several agents (calcium, nucleotides) on receptor occupancy and adenylate cyclase activation have been described. In mammalian uterus and other smooth muscle target cells, there is no evidence for direct involvement of cyclic AMP in the contractile response to oxytocin and other neurohypophysial peptides.
Neurophysiology of locomotor automatism
Authors: Shik M. L. , Orlovsky G. N.
Published: December 2017

It had long been known that the decapitated cock can cross a yard. During the last century an automatic mechanism controlling stepping movements has also been found in other vertebrates. The system controlling locomotion has many features similar to these systems controlling other natural movements: respiration (28), micturition (98), scratching (154), mastication (33), etc. Today we know that there are spinal automatisms for each limb generating its stepping movements. Activity of these automatisms depends essentially on the afferent inflow from the moving limbs. There also is interaction of the limbs during locomotion that promotes their coordination. The existence of two descending systems with different functions in the control of locomotion (Fig. 1) also can be considered as an established fact. Activity of a number of neurons involved in the control of locomotion has been studied directly during locomotion in decorticate, thalamic, and mesencephalic cats. To explain the experimental data at hand, several hypotheses of organization of the spinal automatism of stepping have been forwarded: a chain-reflex hypothesis, a hypothesis of two reciprocal half-centers, and a ring hypothesis (Fig. 2). Although general features of the system controlling locomotion are more or less clear, many questions are not yet answered. It is unknown what relative contributions to motoneuronal activity are made by proprioceptive reflexes versus influences from the automatism of stepping. Furthermore the structure of the spinal stepping automatism is not known. It is not clear if the spinal stepping automatisms of the forelimbs are as potent as those of the hindlimbs. The descending system responsible for activation of the spinal automatism of stepping has not yet been identified in direct experiments. The inputs and outputs of the subthalamic and midbrain "locomotor" regions have not been found, and we know almost nothing about intrinsic interaction of neurons in these regions. The role of inhibitory thalamic influences is scarcely known. Finally, we have no data concerning the influence of either cortical (42, 186) or visual mechanisms in locomotor control.
Anion selectivity in biological systems
Authors: Wright E. M. , Diamond J. M.
Published: December 2017

As background for appreciating the still-unsolved problems of monovalent anion selectivity, we summarize the facts and intepretations that seem reasonably well established. In section II we saw that specific effects of monovalent anions on biological and physical systems define qualitative patterns, in that only certain sequences of anion effects are observed. For example, the 4 halides can be permitted on paper as 4! = 24 sequences, yet only 5 of these sequences have been observed in nature as potency sequences. In addition, there are quantitative regularities in anion potency that permit the construction of so-called empirical selectivity isotherms (Figs. 4 and 13). That is, a given potency sequence is found to be associated with only a certain modest range of selectivity ratios. The sequences and isotherms apply to effects with a nonequilibrium component (e.g., permeability and conductance sequences) as well as to purely equilibrium effects. Since students of cation selectivity have had difficulty accepting this conclusion, we discuss the reasons why it is not as paradoxical as it at first seems. In sections III and IV we develop four theoretical models to account for the observed anion potency sequences as sequences of equilibrium binding energies. Two of these models involve calculation of electrostatic binding energies between anions and monopolar or dipolar cationic sites, assuming anions as well as sites to be rigid and nonpolarizable. The other two models use thermochemically measured binding energies between anions and thealkali cations or occasionally alkaline-earth cations, which in fact approximate rigid, nonpolarizable spheres. All four models consider the anion selectivity pattern of a given cationic site to be determined by anion differences in the balance between hydration energies and ion-site binding energies. Site differences in anion selectivity pattern are attributed to site differences in radius, charge, coordination number, or dipole length. These models succeed in predicting all five observed selectivity sequences of the halides. The models predict in addition the possible existence of two further halide sequences that arise from very strong sites and that have not yet been observed in nature. For polyatomic anions the predictions agree approximately but not completely with observations. Thyroidlike systems, which greatly prefer iodide over other halides,re interpreted as having the weakest sites. Site hydration is predicted to affect the magnitude but not the sequence of potency ratios. For the thyroidlike systems, observed potency ratios are smaller than would be expected if anions were completely dehydrated at biological sites.
Diffusion and Chemical Reaction in Pulmonary Gas Exchange
Authors: Wagner P. D.
Published: December 2017

P. D. Wagner, “Diffusion and Chemical Reaction in Pulmonary Gas Exchange,” vol. 57, no. 2, April 1977, p. 262: in Equation 1 the negative sign preceding Dx should be ignored and the last sentence of the second paragraph (“The negative sign …”) should be deleted; in the last paragraph the units for agrx are ml gas/100 ml tissue per mmHg rather than ml gas/100 ml blood per mmHg.
Intracellular pH
Authors: Roos Albert , Boron Walter F.
Published: December 2017

Albert Roos and Walter F. Boron, “Intracellular pH,” vol. 61, no. 2, April 1981, p. 308: The constant R in Equations 14 and 16 should be M, M being defined as PHA/PA. The constant R' in Equations 15 and 17 should be N, N being defined as PB/PHB. The constant R in the definitions of α, β, ɣ, and δ is the gas constant. The expression [H+]i + K in the denominator of the right-hand side of Equation 15 should be [H+]o + K.
High-frequency ventilation
Authors: Drazen J. M. , Kamm R. D. , Slutsky A. S.
Published: December 2017

Complete physiological understanding of HFV requires knowledge of four general classes of information: 1) the distribution of airflow within the lung over a wide range of frequencies and VT (sect. IVA), 2) an understanding of the basic mechanisms whereby the local airflows lead to gas transport (sect. IVB), 3) a computational or theoretical model in which transport mechanisms are cast in such a form that they can be used to predict overall gas transport rates (sect. IVC), and 4) an experimental data base (sect. VI) that can be compared to model predictions. When compared with available experimental data, it becomes clear that none of the proposed models adequately describes all the experimental findings. Although the model of Kamm et al. is the only one capable of simulating the transition from small to large VT (as compared to dead-space volume), it fails to predict the gas transport observed experimentally with VT less than equipment dead space. The Fredberg model is not capable of predicting the observed tendency for VT to be a more important determinant of gas exchange than is frequency. The remaining models predict a greater influence of VT than frequency on gas transport (consistent with experimental observations) but in their current form cannot simulate the additional gas exchange associated with VT in excess of the dead-space volume nor the decreased efficacy of HFV above certain critical frequencies observed in both animals and humans. Thus all of these models are probably inadequate in detail. One important aspect of these various models is that some are based on transport experiments done in appropriately scaled physical models, whereas others are entirely theoretical. The experimental models are probably most useful in the prediction of pulmonary gas transport rates, whereas the physical models are of greater value in identifying the specific transport mechanism(s) responsible for gas exchange. However, both classes require a knowledge of the factors governing the distribution of airflow under the circumstances of study as well as requiring detail about lung anatomy and airway physical properties. Only when such factors are fully understood and incorporated into a general description of gas exchange by HFV will it be possible to predict or explain all experimental or clinical findings.
Role of cholecystokinin and opioid peptides in control of food intake
Authors: Baile C. A. , McLaughlin C. L. , Della-Fera M. A.
Published: December 2017

Of the many factors that influence food intake, there is strong evidence that opioid and CCK peptides, which stimulate feeding and elicit satiety, respectively, are important components that may act in concert to regulate energy balance. Cholecystokinin peptides have been isolated in both the brain and gastrointestinal tract, and changes in concentration in the brain and in plasma have been shown to vary with feeding. Peripherally injected CCK has been shown to elicit satiety in many species, including humans, an effect that may be mediated in the CNS via the vagus. In several species, most notably the sheep, direct injection into the CSF potently decreases food intake. Questions remaining regarding the role of CCK peptides in eliciting satiety include the sites and mechanisms of action. It is unknown whether CCK acts directly on receptors, indirectly on some other parameter, or as a neurotransmitter. Although opioid peptides have also been localized in portions of both the periphery and brain, a specific physiological role for their presence has not yet been determined. Opioid peptides from three families--endorphins, enkephalins, and dynorphins--have been shown to stimulate feeding in various species. They have been active at several opioid receptor types in the CNS, but there is limited evidence to suggest they affect food intake when administered peripherally. In contrast, peripheral injection of opiate antagonists has effectively decreased food intake, an observation that led to the original hypothesis that opioids were involved in the hunger component in the control of food intake and that excess concentrations might be involved in the development of obesity. An increasing body of evidence supports the concept that opioid and CCK peptides may interact to control food intake, but the evidence is more suggestive than conclusive.
Developmental and functional adaptation of contractile proteins in cardiac and skeletal muscles
Authors: Swynghedauw B.
Published: December 2017

The goal of this review is to summarize our knowledge of the plasticity of striated muscles in terms of contractile proteins. During development or when the working conditions are changed, the intrinsic physiological properties of both cardiac and skeletal muscles are modified. These modifications generally adapt the muscle to the new environmental requirements. One of the best examples is compensatory overload obtained in fast skeletal muscle by synergistic tenotomy and in a fast ventricle, such as in rats, by aortic banding. In both cases, after a few weeks the initial speed of shortening for the unloaded muscle drops, whereas the maximum tension developed remains unchanged. Heat measurements show that efficiency (i.e., g work/mol ATP) is improved at the fiber level. The fast skeletal muscle becomes slow, fatigue resistant, and then more adapted to endurance. For the ventricle as a whole to become slow is beneficial only if one contraction is considered; however, it is detrimental in terms of cardiac output and leads finally to failure. This adaptational process is partly explained by quantitative and qualitative changes in contractile proteins. Protein synthesis is rapidly enhanced and muscles hypertrophy, which in turn multiplies the contractile units and for the cardiac cylinder normalizes the wall stress. In the meantime the structure and, for myosin, the biological activity of several contractile proteins are modified. These modifications are very unlikely to be posttranscriptional and are in fact explained by several isoform shifts. In both tissues, for example, the expression of the gene coding for a fast myosin (MHCf in skeletal muscle, alpha-MHC in ventricles) is repressed and that of the gene coding for a slow myosin (beta-MHC in both tissues) is stimulated. This is accompanied by a coordinated increase in synthesis of other contractile proteins and, in skeletal muscle only, by isoform shifts of myosin light chains and of the TM-TN regulatory system. Other changes are less well understood. During development it has recently been discovered that three different MHCs (MHCemb, MHCneo, and MHCf) appear sequentially in fast skeletal muscle, which explains, for example, several contradictions of immunological cross-reactions. Currently, however, the functional significance of this finding is unknown, and the well-known decrease of shortening velocity observed in cardiac and skeletal muscles during fetal life is unexplained in terms of contractile proteins.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Cytokine regulation of the macrophage (M phi) system studied using the colony stimulating factor-1-deficient op/op mouse
Authors: Wiktor-Jedrzejczak W. , Gordon S.
Published: December 2017

The macrophage (M phi) lineage is more complex than other myeloid lineages of hematopoietic cells and includes strikingly different end cells such as Kupffer cells, alveolar M phi, histiocytes, serosal M phi, synovial type A cells, microglia, osteoclasts, and possibly dendritic cells. These cells are formed under the influence of primary M phi growth factors such as colony stimulating factor (CSF)-1, granulocyte-M phi (GM)-CSF, and interleukin-3. The dissection of the system has been greatly facilitated by discovery of the osteopetrotic op/op mouse, which has a spontaneous knockout of the gene for CSF-1 and possesses generalized but differential deficiency of various local subpopulations of M phi. Studies using this model indicate that the M phi lineage is split into CSF-1-dependent and CSF-1-independent cells that are largely independently regulated. These contribute variably to different local populations and have largely, but not totally, overlapping functions. Both CSF-1 and GM-CSF are responsible for transition of cells of the M phi lineage from bone marrow to blood, and from blood to tissues, and have a critical extramedullary role. Regulation of the M phi system by CSF-1 is complex, with some local populations dependent on circulating CSF-1 and some supported exclusively by locally produced CSF-1. Colony stimulating factor-1-dependent M phi are not required for the generation of a specific immune response. Instead, most likely they play a regulatory role in various tissue reactions including responses to bacterial infection, neoplasia, and atherosclerosis. A hypothetical major role of CSF-1-independent M phi is to collaborate with lymphocytes in mounting an immune response. These issues need further exploration using animals with knockouts of genes for other M phi growth and activation factors and their receptors.
Neural control of renal function
Authors: DiBona G. F. , Kopp U. C.
Published: December 2017

The renal nerves are the communication link between the central nervous system and the kidney. In response to multiple peripheral and central inputs, efferent renal sympathetic nerve activity is altered so as to convey information to the major structural and functional components of the kidney, the vessels, glomeruli, and tubules, each of which is innervated. At the level of each of these individual components, information transfer occurs via interaction of the neurotransmitter released at the sympathetic nerve terminal-neuroeffector junction with specific postjunctional receptors coupled to defined intracellular signaling and effector systems. In response to normal physiological stimuli, changes in efferent renal sympathetic nerve activity contribute importantly to homeostatic regulation of renal blood flow, glomerular filtration rate, renal tubular epithelial cell solute and water transport, and hormonal release. Afferent input from sensory receptors located in the kidney participates in this reflex control system via renorenal reflexes that enable total renal function to be self-regulated and balanced between the two kidneys. In pathophysiological conditions, abnormal regulation of efferent renal sympathetic nerve activity contributes significantly to the associated abnormalities of renal function which, in turn, are of importance in the pathogenesis of the disease.
Components Involved in Peroxisome Import, Biogenesis, Proliferation, Turnover, and Movement
Authors: SUBRAMANI SURESH
Published: December 2017

Subramani, Suresh. Components Involved in Peroxisome Import, Biogenesis, Proliferation, Turnover, and Movement. Physiol. Rev. 78: 171–188, 1998. — In the decade that has elapsed since the discovery of the first peroxisomal targeting signal (PTS), considerable information has been obtained regarding the mechanism of protein import into peroxisomes. The PTSs responsible for the import of matrix and membrane proteins to peroxisomes, the receptors for several of these PTSs, and docking proteins for the PTS1 and PTS2 receptors are known. Many peroxins involved in peroxisomal protein import and biogenesis have been characterized genetically and biochemically. These studies have revealed important new insights regarding the mechanism of protein translocation across the peroxisomal membrane, the conservation of PEX genes through evolution, the role of peroxins in fatal human peroxisomal disorders, and the biogenesis of the organelle. It is clear that peroxisomal protein import and biogenesis have many features unique to this organelle alone. More recent studies on peroxisome degradation, division, and movement highlight newer aspects of the biology of this organelle that promise to be just as exciting and interesting as import and biogenesis.
Adult Cortical Dynamics
Authors: GILBERT CHARLES D.
Published: December 2017

Gilbert, Charles D. Adult Cortical Dynamics. Physiol. Rev. 78: 467–485, 1998. — There are many influences on our perception of local features. What we see is not strictly a reflection of the physical characteristics of a scene but instead is highly dependent on the processes by which our brain attempts to interpret the scene. As a result, our percepts are shaped by the context within which local features are presented, by our previous visual experiences, operating over a wide range of time scales, and by our expectation of what is before us. The substrate for these influences is likely to be found in the lateral interactions operating within individual areas of the cerebral cortex and in the feedback from higher to lower order cortical areas. Even at early stages in the visual pathway, cells are far more flexible in their functional properties than previously thought. It had long been assumed that cells in primary visual cortex had fixed properties, passing along the product of a stereotyped operation to the next stage in the visual pathway. Any plasticity dependent on visual experience was thought to be restricted to a period early in the life of the animal, the critical period. Furthermore, the assembly of contours and surfaces into unified percepts was assumed to take place at high levels in the visual pathway, whereas the receptive fields of cells in primary visual cortex represented very small windows on the visual scene. These concepts of spatial integration and plasticity have been radically modified in the past few years. The emerging view is that even at the earliest stages in the cortical processing of visual information, cells are highly mutable in their functional properties and are capable of integrating information over a much larger part of visual space than originally believed.
Tissue-Specific Bcl-2 Protein Partners in Apoptosis: An Ovarian Paradigm
Authors: Hsu Sheau Yu , Hsueh Aaron J. W.
Published: December 2017

Apoptosis is an essential physiological process by which multicellular organisms eliminate superfluous cells. An expanding family of Bcl-2 proteins plays a pivotal role in the decision step of apoptosis, and the differential expression of Bcl-2 members and their binding proteins allows the regulation of apoptosis in a tissue-specific manner mediated by diverse extra- and intracellular signals. The Bcl-2 proteins can be divided into three subgroups: 1) antiapoptotic proteins with multiple Bcl-2 homology (BH) domains and a transmembrane region, 2) proapoptotic proteins with the same structure but missing the BH4 domain, and 3) proapoptotic ligands with only the BH3 domain. In the mammalian ovary, a high rate of follicular cell apoptosis continues during reproductive life. With the use of the yeast two-hybrid system, the characterization of ovarian Bcl-2 genes serves as a paradigm to understand apoptosis regulation in a tissue-specific manner. We identified Mcl-1 as the main ovarian antiapoptotic Bcl-2 protein, the novel Bok (Bcl-2-related ovarian killer) as the proapoptotic protein, as well as BOD (Bcl-2-related ovarian death agonist) and BAD as the proapoptotic ligands. The activity of the proapoptotic ligand BAD is regulated by upstream follicle survival factors through its binding to constitutively expressed 14–3-3 or hormone-induced P11. In contrast, the channel-forming Mcl-1 and Bok regulate cytochrome crelease and, together with the recently discovered Diva/Boo, control downstream apoptosis-activating factor (Apaf)-1 homologs and caspases. Elucidation of the role of Bcl-2 members and their interacting proteins in the tissue-specific regulation of apoptosis could facilitate an understanding of normal physiology and allow the development of new therapeutic approaches for pathological states.
Development of Specific Connectivity Between Premotor Neurons and Motoneurons in the Brain Stem and Spinal Cord
Authors: Glover Joel C.
Published: December 2017

Astounding progress has been made during the past decade in understanding the general principles governing the development of the nervous system. An area of prime physiological interest that is being elucidated is how the neural circuitry that governs movement is established. The concerted application of molecular biological, anatomical, and electrophysiological techniques to this problem is yielding gratifying insight into how motoneuron, interneuron, and sensory neuron identities are determined, how these different neuron types establish specific axonal projections, and how they recognize and synapse upon each other in patterns that enable the nervous system to exercise precise control over skeletal musculature. This review is an attempt to convey to the physiologist some of the exciting discoveries that have been made, within a context that is intended to link molecular mechanism to behavioral realization. The focus is restricted to the development of monosynaptic connections onto skeletal motoneurons. Principal topics include the inductive mechanisms that pattern the placement and differentiation of motoneurons, Ia sensory afferents, and premotor interneurons; the molecular guidance mechanisms that pattern the projection of premotor axons in the brain stem and spinal cord; and the precision with which initial synaptic connections onto motoneurons are established, with emphasis on the relative roles played by cellular recognition versus electrical activity. It is hoped that this review will provide a guide to understanding both the existing literature and the advances that await this rapidly developing topic.
Retinoids in Embryonal Development
Authors: Ross Sharon A. , McCaffery Peter J. , Drager Ursula C. , De Luca Luigi M.
Published: December 2017

The key role of vitamin A in embryonal development is reviewed. Special emphasis is given to the physiological action of retinoids, as evident from the retinoid ligand knockout models. Retinoid metabolism in embryonic tissues and teratogenic consequences of retinoid administration at high doses are presented. Physiological and pharmacological actions of retinoids are outlined and explained on the basis of their interactions as ligands of the nuclear retinoid receptors. Immediate target genes and the retinoid response elements of their promoters are summarized. The fundamental role of homeobox genes in embryonal development and the actions of retinoids on their expression are discussed. The similarity of the effects of retinoid ligand knockouts to effects of compound retinoid receptor knockouts on embryogenesis is presented. Although much remains to be clarified, the emerging landscape offers exciting views for future research.
Tell El-Amarna, 2007–8
Authors: Kemp Barry
Published: December 2017

This report on the 2007–8 seasons at Tell el-Amarna summarises continued work on the Stone Village, South Tombs Cemetery, the desert GPS survey, and the study of the Christian remains around the tomb of Panehsy (no. 6). As an experiment to complement the surveys, a 3D laser scanner was used for landscape studies at several points. No building repair work was undertaken. Post-excavation work covered charcoal, human bones (involving a larger team from the University of Arkansas), small finds, carved block and statue fragments from the Great Palace, Kom el-Nana, and el-Mangara (many in the SCA magazine at el-Ashmunein), animal bones and pottery from grid 12 and from the cemetery. Experiments were continued into the manufacturing process of faience.
A Garland of Determinatives*
Authors: Spalinger Anthony J.
Published: December 2017

A discussion of the use of various determinatives attached to foreign places has become an ongoing topic of research. The following study concentrates upon the city and foreign-land determinatives and their changing use from the Middle Kingdom onwards. Special attention is given to alterations at the close of the Eighteenth Dynasty, as well as the common use of the throw-stick determinative. Differing hieratic and hieroglyphic usages are also covered. This analysis focuses upon the concept of ‘foreignness’ as it pertains to towns and cities located at the periphery of Egypt in the north-east.
The Delta Survey: Minufiyeh Province, 2008–9*
Authors: Rowland Joanne , Edinborough Kevan , Phillipps Rebecca , El-Senussi Ashraf
Published: December 2017

This fieldwork report presents the results of the ground survey phase of fieldwork of the Minufiyeh Archaeological Survey during the 2008 and 2009 seasons. These seasons also saw the continuation of investigations into the cemetery and Sacred Falcon Necropolis at the Quesna archaeological area and into the archaeological remains at Kom el-Ahmar, Minuf. The 2008 season saw the first visit of the ground survey to the region between el-Khatatbah and Kafr Dawud, west of the Rosetta branch of the Nile, as well as further investigation into sites across the province and the continuation of the drill core survey. In 2009 the ground survey returned to the desert edge in the vicinity of el-Khatatbah for a focussed survey investigating early encampments and settlements along the desert edge.
Social Relationships in Predynastic Burials
Authors: Stevenson Alice
Published: December 2017

Of all Ancient Egyptian eras, it has been the Predynastic (primarily the fourth millennium BC) that has received the greatest attention from anthropologically derived models of mortuary behaviour. Following an overview of developments in mortuary archaeology, this article aims to contribute to the discussion of alternative social models of Predynastic mortuary remains. In particular, it aims to challenge the overriding assumption that burial form and content is a reflection or correlate of individual status or identity, or that it simply forms an index for social ranking. Rather, it is argued that these contexts may additionally reveal aspects of the relationships between people, objects, and places. In doing so, it is possible to consider some of the ideological aspects of Predynastic burials in addition to the social-economic aspects that are more often discussed.
Trapezius placement of implanted ports: understanding the procedure
Authors: Hill Steve
Published: December 2017

Totally implantable vascular access devices (TIVADs) are indicated for intermittent long-term intravenous access. It is widely accepted within medical literature that TIVADs are associated with statistically significant lower infection rates than other central venous access devices. Typical sites for implantation are on the anterior chest wall, using the internal jugular, axillary, cephalic or a subclavian vein. This article follows on from a previous discussion of the benefits of this approach, which illustrated and examined clinical outcomes of trapezius-placement versus anterior chest wall placed ports, for patients with metastatic subcutaneous disease on the anterior chest wall. The procedure provides a unique challenge for the clinician. This article focuses on the process of trapezius port implantation, providing an illustrative guide to understand the procedure. Trapezius port placement is a viable option for patients for whom routine sites are excluded and who require long-term intermittent vascular access.
Latest developments
Authors: Bayram Liz , Webb Penny
Published: December 2017

Send your letters, news stories or latest developments to: The Editor, Child Care, St Jude's Church, Dulwich Road, Herne Hill, London, SE24 0PB email: childcare@markallengroup.com
Sectional fixed appliance therapy in the mixed dentition
Authors: Rao Ashwin , YM Karuna , Tiwari Shweta , Krishnan Radha , Sivadas Sonia , Khare Mansi
Published: December 2017

Abstract: There are many common dental malocclusions seen in the mixed dentition, such as premature loss of, or retained, deciduous teeth, submerged molars, supernumerary teeth, midline diastema, crossbites, increased overjet, open bites, ectopic eruptions and crowding. In properly selected cases, like dental anterior crossbites or unerupted incisors, interceptive orthodontic treatment not only improves function and aesthetics, but also achieves a relatively stable outcome, even after the removal of the appliance. A removable appliance can be a mode of interceptive orthodontic treatment. The success of the interceptive treatment using a removable appliance, however, depends upon patient compliance. In this regard, use of a sectional fixed appliance is gaining in popularity. This paper discusses four case scenarios of malocclusion in the mixed dentition managed using sectional fixed therapy.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: The sectional fixed appliance is versatile, easy to use and well tolerated by patients. When used correctly, it gives a more controlled approach to tooth movement in all three dimensions and a more predictable outcome.
The immune system: basis of so much health and disease: 6. cytokines
Authors: Scully Crispian , Georgakopoulou Eleni A , Hassona Yazan
Published: December 2017

Abstract: The immune system is the body's primary defence mechanism against infections, and disturbances in the system can cause disease if the system fails in defence functions (in immunocompromised people), or if the activity is detrimental to the host (as in auto-immune and auto-inflammatory states). A healthy immune system is also essential to normal health of dental and oral tissues. This series presents the basics for the understanding of the immune system; this article covers the cytokines.

Clinical Relevance: Modern dental clinicians need a basic understanding of the immune system as it underlies health and disease.
A case of five mandibular incisors
Authors: Natarajan Madhumitha , Rao Bharath , Urala Arun S
Published: December 2017

Abstract: Supernumeraries in the mandible is a rare phenomenon with a prevalence of 1% and varied aetiology. An additional mandibular incisor is a common clinical finding. Diagnosis is purely by clinical evaluation and a decision to extract or retain such teeth is critical in treatment planning. This is a case report of a 14-year-old female patient with forwardly placed front teeth. Intra-oral examination revealed a lingually erupting mandibular incisor. Diagnosis of the mandibular incisor supernumerary and its management will be discussed.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Differentiating a supplemental incisor can be quite challenging.
Two resin-bonded bridges – 30 years on
Authors: Fisher FJ
Published: December 2017

Abstract: A clinical comment on two resin-bonded bridges placed 30 years ago, now still in place with notes suggesting how this success was achieved.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: The long-term outcome of conservative restorations is of importance.
Understanding the importance of play in a child's development
Authors: Mathieson Kay H.
Published: December 2017

Parents may misunderstand or misinterpret play actions and responses if they do not have access to appropriate information. Health visitors and early years practitioners are well placed to engage with families and help them recognise the significance of play behaviour, and to better understand the world from the child's perspective. They are involved directly with families and can enable parents' to understand the value, benefits and importance of play on their child's development.