bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wide Variability in the Time Required for Immunotoxins to Kill B Lineage Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Cells: Implications for Trial Design
Authors: Müller Fabian , Cunningham Tyler , Liu Xiu Fen , Wayne Alan S. , Pastan Ira
Published: April 2016

Purpose: Recombinant immunotoxins (rITs) targeting CD22 are highly active in hairy cell leukemia, but less so in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). This study aims to understand the variable activity of an rIT against ALL toward improving responses in clinical application.

Experimental Design: We determined in vitro activity of rITs by WST-8 assays and the time needed to kill ALL cell lines and patient-derived ALL blasts by flow cytometry. The findings were translated into two systemic ALL xenograft models. Differences in time needed to kill KOPN-8 cells for distinct rITs were addressed biochemically.

Results: In vitro activity (IC50) of anti-CD22 rIT varied 210-fold from 0.02 to 4.6 ng/mL. Activity also varied greatly depending on the time ALL cells were exposed to immunotoxin from < 30 minutes to > 4 days. For KOPN-8, the difference in exposure time was related to intracellular rIT processing. We showed in newly developed ALL xenograft models, where immunotoxins have a short half-life, that the needed exposure time in vitro predicted the responses in vivo. By replacing bolus dose with small doses at frequent intervals or with continuous infusion, responses were substantially improved. We confirmed exposure time variability on patient-derived ALL samples and showed a correlation between exposure time needed to reach maximal cytotoxicity in vitro and their clinical response.

Conclusions: The exposure time needed for rITs targeting CD22 to kill ALL cells varies widely. Our results suggest that ALL patients would have a better response rate to anti-CD22 immunotoxins if treated by continuous infusion rather than by bolus injections. Clin Cancer Res; 22(19); 4913–22. ©2016 AACR.
The Discovery and Characterization of K-756, a Novel Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway Inhibitor Targeting Tankyrase
Authors: Okada-Iwasaki Ryoko , Takahashi Yuichi , Watanabe Yasuo , Ishida Hiroshi , Saito Jun-ichi , Nakai Ryuichiro , Asai Akira
Published: April 2016

The Wnt/β-catenin pathway is a well-known oncogenic pathway. Its suppression has long been considered as an important challenge in treating cancer patients. Among colon cancer patients in particular, most patients carry an adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) mutation that leads to an aberration of Wnt/β-catenin pathway. To discover the small molecule inhibitors of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, we conducted high-throughput screening in APC-mutant colon cancer DLD-1 cells using a transcriptional reporter assay, which identified a selective Wnt/β-catenin pathway inhibitor, K-756. K-756 stabilizes Axin and reduces active β-catenin, and inhibits the genes downstream of endogenous Wnt/β-catenin. We subsequently identified that K-756 is a tankyrase (TNKS) inhibitor. TNKS, which belongs to the PARP family, poly-ADP ribosylates Axin and promotes Axin degradation via the proteasome pathway. K-756 binds to the induced pocket of TNKS and inhibits its enzyme activity. Moreover, PARP family enzyme assays showed that K-756 is a selective TNKS inhibitor. K-756 inhibited the cell growth of APC-mutant colorectal cancer COLO 320DM and SW403 cells by inhibiting the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. An in vivo study showed that the oral administration of K-756 inhibited the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in colon cancer xenografts in mice. To further explore the therapeutic potential of K-756, we also evaluated the effects of K-756 in non–small cell lung cancer cells. Although a single treatment of K-756 did not induce antiproliferative activity, when K-756 was combined with an EGFR inhibitor (gefitinib), it showed a strong synergistic effect. Therefore, K-756, a novel selective TNKS inhibitor, could be a leading compound in the development of anticancer agents. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(7); 1525–34. ©2016 AACR.
Verapamil Inhibits the Pelvic Pressure Increase Corresponding to Flow Perfusion in the Porcine Percutaneous Renal Puncture Model
Authors: Shao Yi , Wei Haibin , Sha Minglei , Sun Feng , Lu Jun , Xia Shujie
Published: April 2016

Purpose: To estimate the effects of verapamil on pelvic pressure and investigate the possible systemic side effects in the porcine model during the procedure of increasing perfusion rates. Materials and Methods: In the experimental group, the pelvic pressure was recorded with increasing perfusion rates of the renal pelvis (0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 14 and 20 ml/min) in response to intraluminal administration of increasing concentrations of verapamil (0, 0.1, 1, 10 and 100 µg/ml) in isotonic saline. In the isotonic saline group, the pressure flow study was also done by increasing perfusion rates of the renal pelvis per animal using isotonic saline without verapamil. Results: Perfusion with 1, 10 and 100 µg/ml verapamil caused a decrease in pelvic pressure as a response to increasing flow rates, whereas perfusion with 0.1 µg/ml verapamil did not obviously inhibit the increase of pelvic pressure at all perfusion rates compared with other concentrations. Importantly, the mean systolic blood pressure and mean heart rate were stable despite the increase of flow rates and verapamil concentrations. In the isotonic saline group, perfusion with isotonic saline resulted in an increase in the pelvic pressure with an increase in flow rates each time. Conclusions: Endoluminal administration of verapamil reduces pelvic pressure significantly without any untoward systemic cardiovascular side effects.
The Effect of Testicular Torsion Duration on Testicular Steroidogenesis in the Rat Model
Authors: Kurt Omer , Yazici Cenk Murat , Gevher Fetullah , Balci Huriye , Yitik Ali , Ozkara Hamdi
Published: April 2016

Background: Testicular torsion is an emergency condition in which spermatogenesis may be irreversibly damaged. There have been controversial results about the effect of testicular torsion on steroidogenesis. We aimed at investigating the effect of testicular torsion on steroidogenesis. Material and Methods: A total of 40 adult male rats were divided into 4 groups. Left testicles were removed in all groups. Right testicles were torsioned and remained in the torsion position for 1, 3 and 5 h in study groups, whereas no torsion was performed in control. Serum luteinizing hormone (LH) and total testosterone (TT) levels were measured on the 3rd and 30th days of surgery and orchiectomy was performed on the 30th day of testicular torsion for histopathological evaluation. Results: TT levels of study groups were significantly lower than that of the control group on the 3rd day of torsion. LH of study groups was higher than that of the control group, but the difference was significant only in the 5 h-torsion group. The total number of Leydig cells increased in 1- and 3-h groups, whereas it decreased in the 5-hour group. Conclusion: Testosterone production and Leydig cell functions significantly decreased after 5 h torsion in the rat model. The duration of torsion less than 5 h yielded partial dysfunction on steroidogenesis.
Benign Cystic Mesothelioma Misdiagnosed as Peritoneal Carcinomatosis
Authors: Shin Hyun Deok , Kim Suk Bae
Published: April 2016

Benign cystic mesothelioma (BCM) is a rare benign disease that forms multicystic masses in the abdomen, pelvis, and retroperitoneum. It occurs predominantly in young to middle-aged women. The majority of cases were associated with a history of abdominal or pelvic operation, a history of endometriosis, and pelvic inflammatory disease. We present a unique case of BCM which is different to the previous cases. The patient was a 52-year-old man showing features of peritoneal carcinomatosis accompanied by ascites on abdominal computed tomography scans. We herein report a case of BCM misdiagnosed with peritoneal carcinomatosis.
Gastric Perforation by Ingested Rabbit Bone Fragment
Authors: Gambaracci Giulio , Mecarini Eleonora , Franceschini Maria Silvia , Scialpi Michele
Published: April 2016

The majority of accidentally ingested foreign bodies is excreted from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract without any complications. Sometimes sharp foreign bodies – like chicken and fish bones – can lead to intestinal perforation and may present insidiously with a wide range of symptoms and, consequently, different diagnoses. We report the case of a 59-year-old woman presenting with fever and a 1-month history of vague abdominal pain. Computed tomography (CT) showed the presence of a hyperdense linear image close to the gastric antrum surrounded by a fluid collection and free peritoneal air. At laparotomy, a 4-cm rabbit bone fragment covered in inflamed tissue was detected next to a gastric wall perforation. Rabbit bone fragment ingestion, even if rarely reported, should not be underestimated as a possible cause of GI tract perforation.
Homocysteine in Renal Injury
Authors: Long Yanjun , Nie Jing
Published: April 2016

Background: Homocysteine (Hcy) is an intermediate of methionine metabolism. Hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) can result from a deficiency in the enzymes or vitamin cofactors required for Hcy metabolism. Patients with renal disease tend to be hyperhomocysteinemic, particularly as renal function declines, although the underlying cause of HHcy in renal disease is not entirely understood. Summary: HHcy is considered a risk or pathogenic factor in the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) as well as the cardiovascular complications. Key Messages: In this review, we summarize both clinical and experimental findings that reveal the contribution of Hcy as a pathogenic factor to the development of CKD. In addition, we discuss several important mechanisms mediating the pathogenic action of Hcy in the kidney, such as local oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, inflammation and hypomethylation.
Different Prognostic Significance of Cardiac Troponin at Presentation and Peak Cardiac Troponin in Patients with Non-ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Siasos Gerasimos , Lazaros George , Oikonomou Evangelos , Zografos Theodoros , Athanasiou Dimitris , Vavuranakis Manolis , Antonopoulos Alexis , Tsigkou Vasiliki , Stefanadis Christodoulos , Papavassiliou Athanasios G. , Tousoulis Dimitris
Published: April 2016

Objectives: Non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) is one of the most common manifestations of acute coronary syndromes (ACS). We evaluated the prognostic role of cardiac troponin I (cTnI) at presentation and peak cardiac troponin I in patients with NSTEMI. Methods: We consecutively enrolled 215 subjects presenting with NSTEMI. Subjects were followed up for 1 year. cTnI at presentation and the peak value of cTnI were measured. The primary end point was defined as cardiovascular death, readmission to hospital with heart failure and new ACS. Results: The subjects who presented the primary end point (49 subjects) had significantly increased values of peak cTnI compared to subjects free of cardiovascular events [7.19 (2.97-21.32) vs. 4.09 (1.18-11.85) ng/l; p = 0.002]. Nevertheless, cTnI at presentation did not differ between subjects who presented the primary end point and those free of events (p = 0.39). Multivariate Cox regression analysis after adjustment for confounders revealed by the univariate analysis showed that for an increase in peak cTnI from 1 to 10 ng/l, there is a 60% anticipated increase in the relative risk to present the primary end point (p = 0.04). Conclusion: These findings documented the different prognostic significance of cTnI at presentation and peak cTnI in patients presenting with NSTEMI, and highlighted the importance of monitoring the levels of cTnI in this high-risk population.
Deficiency of Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Non-Receptor Type 2 in Intestinal Epithelial Cells Has No Appreciable Impact on Dextran Sulphate Sodium Colitis Severity But Promotes Wound Healing
Authors: Kasper Stephanie H. , Spalinger Marianne R. , Leonardi Irina , Gerstgrasser Alexandra , Raselli Tina , Gottier Claudia , Atrott Kirstin , Frey-Wagner Isabelle , Fischbeck-Terhalle Anne , Rogler Gerhard , Scharl Michael
Published: April 2016

Background/Aims: The protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor type 2 (PTPN2) is known to mediate susceptibility to inflammatory bowel diseases. Cell culture experiments suggest that PTPN2 influences barrier function, autophagy and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. PTPN2 knockout mice die a few weeks after birth due to systemic inflammation, emphasizing the importance of this phosphatase in inflammatory processes. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of PTPN2 in colon epithelial cells by performing dextran sulphate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in PTPN2xVilCre mice. Methods: Acute colitis was induced by administering 2.5 or 2% DSS for 7 days and chronic colitis by 4 cycles of treatment using 1% DSS. Body weight of mice was measured regularly and colonoscopy was done at the end of the experiments. Mice were sacrificed afterwards and colon specimens were obtained for H&E staining. For analysis of wound healing, mechanical wounds were introduced during endoscopy and wound closure assessed by daily colonoscopy. Results: Although colonoscopy and weight development suggested changes in colitis severity, the lack of any influence of PTPN2 deficiency on histological scoring for inflammation severity after acute or chronic DSS colitis indicates that colitis severity is not influenced by epithelial-specific loss of PTPN2. Chronic colitis induced the development of aberrant crypt foci more frequently in PTPN2xVilCre mice compared to their wild type littermates. On the other hand, loss of PTPN2-induced enhanced epithelial cell proliferation and promoted wound closure. Conclusions: Loss of PTPN2 in intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) has no significant influence on inflammation in DSS colitis. Obviously, loss of PTPN2 in IECs can be compensated in vivo, thereby suppressing a phenotype. This lack of a colitis-phenotype might be due to enhanced epithelial cell proliferation and subsequent increased wound-healing capacity of the epithelial layer.
Cytomegalovirus-Infected Primary Endothelial Cells Trigger NKG2C+ Natural Killer Cells
Authors: Djaoud Zakia , Riou Raphaëlle , Gavlovsky Pierre-Jean , Mehlal Souad , Bressollette Céline , Gérard Nathalie , Gagne Katia , Charreau Béatrice , Retière Christelle
Published: April 2016

Among innate cells, natural killer (NK) cells play a crucial role in the defense against cytomegalovirus (CMV). In some individuals, CMV infection induces the expansion of NKG2C+ NK cells that persist after control of the infection. We have previously shown that KIR2DL+ NK cells, in contrast to NKG2C+ NK cells, contribute to controlling CMV infection using a CMV-infected monocyte-derived dendritic cell (MDDC) model. However, the nature of CMV-infected cells contributing to the expansion of the NKG2C+ NK cell subset remains unclear. To gain more insight into this question, we investigated the contribution of NKG2C+ NK cell activation by CMV-infected primary human aortic endothelial cells (EC) isolated from kidney transplant donors, which constitutively express the human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-E molecule. Here, we show that, although classic HLA class I expression was drastically downregulated, nonclassic HLA-E expression was maintained in CMV-infected EC. By comparing HLA expression patterns in CMV-infected EC, fibroblasts and MDDC, we demonstrate a cell-dependent modulation of HLA-E expression by CMV infection. NKG2C+ NK cell degranulation was significantly triggered by CMV-infected EC regardless of the nature of the HLA-E allele product. EC, predominantly present in vessels, may constitute a privileged site for CMV infection that drives a ‘memory' NKG2C+ NK cell subset.
Surface Electromyography Reliably Records Electrophysiologically Evoked Internal Anal Sphincter Activity: A More Minimally Invasive Approach for Monitoring Extrinsic Innervation
Authors: Kauff Daniel W. , Wachter Nicolas , Heimann Axel , Krüger Thilo B. , Hoffmann Klaus-Peter , Lang Hauke , Kneist Werner
Published: April 2016

Background: Even in the case of minimally invasive pelvic surgery, sparing of the autonomic nerve supply is a prerequisite for maintaining anal sphincter function. Internal anal sphincter (IAS) innervation could be electrophysiologically identified based on processed electromyographic (EMG) recordings with conventional bipolar needle electrodes (NE). This experimental study aimed for the development of a minimally invasive approach via intra-anal surface EMG for recordings of evoked IAS activity. Methods: Six male pigs underwent nerve-sparing low anterior rectal resection. Electric autonomic nerve stimulations were performed under online-processed EMG of the IAS. EMG recordings were simultaneously carried out with conventional bipolar NE as the reference method and newly developed intra-anal surface electrodes (SE) in different designs. Results: In all experiments, the IAS activity could be continuously visualized via EMG recordings based on NE and SE. The median number of bipolar electric stimulations per animal was 27 (range 5-52). The neurostimulations resulted in significant EMG amplitude increases for both recording types [NE: median 3.0 µV (interquartile range, IQR 2.8-3.5) before stimulation vs. 7.1 µV (IQR 3.9-13.8) during stimulation, p < 0.001; SE: median 3.6 µV (IQR 3.1-4.3) before stimulation vs. 6.8 µV (IQR 4.8-10.3) during stimulation, p < 0.001]. Conclusions: Intra-anal SE enabled reliable EMG of electrophysiologically evoked IAS activity similar to the conventional recording via NE. The transfer of the method to access platforms for transanal total mesorectal excision or robotics may offer a practical more minimally invasive approach for monitoring extrinsic innervation.
Well-Differentiated Grade 2, Type 3 Gastrointestinal Neuroendocrine Tumour with Bilateral Metastatic Ovarian Involvement: Report of an Unusual Case
Authors: Manneh Ray , Castellano Daniel , Caso Oscar , Loinaz Carmelo , Jiménez Jesús , Estenoz Juana , Calatayud Maria , Sepúlveda Juan M. , García-Carbonero Rocio
Published: April 2016

Treatment of metastatic gastric neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) is challenging. In oligometastatic cases, surgical resection is recommended whenever possible. Somatostatin analogues have been used to decrease gastrin levels, and available evidence suggests that these drugs can also reduce recurrences. Here we present a highly unusual case involving a patient with a well-differentiated grade 2, type 3 gastric NET with exclusive metastatic bilateral ovarian involvement. To our knowledge, this is the first such case reported in the literature, as the cause of ovarian involvement is usually due to local invasion rather than metastasis. We believe this case is of interest not only due to the unusual presentation, but also because it makes us consider adjuvant treatment with somatostatin analogues in patients with low-grade tumours and a positive postoperative octreoscan.
Decrease of Tocilizumab Dose in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Pilot Study
Authors: Fechtenbaum Marie , Lasselin-Boyard Pauline , Salomon Sarah , Jelin Germain , Millot Florence , Grados Franck , Fardellone Patrice , Goëb Vincent
Published: April 2016

Background: The efficacy and safety of tocilizumab (TCZ) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are well demonstrated. Doses of 4 and 8 mg/kg are used intravenously. The objective of our study was to report the efficacy and safety for a set of patients who had an 8 mg/kg doze of TCZ and for another set who had this treatment first at a dose of 8 followed by 4 mg/kg. Methods: All RA patients treated with TCZ in a University Hospital Centre Department of Rheumatology between January 2010 and December 2014 were included. Sixty-three patients received TCZ at a dose of 8 mg/kg and 19 patients received this treatment first receiving a dose of 8 mg/kg decreased to 4 mg/kg. The demographic characteristics, the clinical response and adverse events were reported. Results: At the end of follow-up, 48% of patients were in clinical remission defined by disease activity score based on 28 joints with an erythrocyte sedimentation rate <2.6 in the 8 mg/kg group and 74% of patients in the 8-4 mg/kg. The rates of severe infections were 4.8 per 100 patients-years (PY) in the 8 mg/kg group and 2.9 per 100 PY in the 8 then 4 mg/kg. The infections were mainly pulmonary, ENT and skin infections. Conclusion: Our study reported the efficacy and safety of the TCZ in patients with RA in ‘real life' with the dose of 8 mg/kg or 8 then 4 mg/kg.
Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Cancer Patients: A Prospective Questionnaire-Based Study in an Oncological Outpatient Clinic
Authors: König Julia , Geschwill Kristina , Lang Andreas , Tauchert Felix K. , Hofheinz Ralf-Dieter , Kripp Melanie
Published: April 2016

Background: A questionnaire-based prospective study was conducted to evaluate the current use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in a hemato-oncological outpatient clinic. Methods: A multiple-choice questionnaire was designed to assess the use of CAM in a hemato-oncological outpatient clinic. It consisted of questions on sociodemographic and general patient data, and of different kind of questions concerning the use of CAM, including disclosure rates to oncologists and general physicians. The data was analyzed with SAS and a p-value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: 46 out of 251 patients (18%) indicated to use CAM. 62 out of all patients (25%) discussed the topic with their general physician or oncologist. Praying or nutritional supplements were the most often used type of CAM. 95 of all participating patients found that the use of CAM could be helpful. Conclusions: The findings of our monocentric study in an outpatient setting do not support the relatively high percentage of CAM users described in the current literature. Nevertheless, CAM needs to be defined more clearly, in order to increase the patients' awareness of CAM.
Comparative Cytogenetic Analysis of Spontaneous Abortions in Recurrent and Sporadic Pregnancy Losses
Authors: Nikitina Tatiana V. , Sazhenova Elena A. , Tolmacheva Ekaterina N. , Sukhanova Natalia N. , Kashevarova Anna A. , Skryabin Nikolay A. , Vasilyev Stanislav A. , Nemtseva Tatiana N. , Yuriev Sergey Y. , Lebedev Igor N.
Published: April 2016

Background: The majority of miscarriages are sporadic; however, 1-5% of couples experience recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). Approximately 50-60% of miscarriages result from chromosomal abnormalities. Currently, there are conflicting reports regarding the rates of chromosomal abnormalities between recurrent and sporadic pregnancy losses. Methods: A retrospective comparative cytogenetic analysis of 442 RPL and 466 sporadic abortions (SA) was performed. Maternal age and medical background were evaluated, and chromosomal abnormality rates were compared between groups. Results: The frequency of embryos with abnormal karyotypes was significantly higher in SA compared to RPL (56.7 and 46.6%, respectively), and abortions from women under 30 years of age were the main contributor to this difference. An age-dependent increase in the abnormal karyotype rate was observed in two groups of women - those with SA [53.0 and 70.1% for younger and older (≥35-year-old) mothers, respectively] and those with idiopathic RPL without any concomitant reproductive pathology (46.5 and 78.4% for younger and older mothers) - but not in the group of women with RPL associated with concomitant reproductive pathology. The incidence of recurrent abnormal karyotypes in subsequent miscarriages was significantly higher than random probability (odds ratio = 22.75). Conclusion: Our findings highlight the variability in the risk of aneuploidy in recurrent abortion.
Manual de catalogação de filmes da biblioteca da ECA
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Comunicações e Artes, Macambyra Marina
Published: April 2016

Este manual foi elaborado com o objetivo de divulga para o público interessado a experiência acumulada pela Biblioteca da Escola de Comunicações e Artes da USP (ECA/USP) no tratamento da informação em acervos de imagens em movimento. Sua origem é o manual interno da seção responsável pelo tratamento dos documentos audiovisuais da Biblioteca, cujas soluções aqui são apresentadas de forma a serem compreendidas por qualquer bibliotecário que esteja em busca de informações sobre o assunto. Foram eliminados os detalhes de carater administrativo que só tem sentido na instituição de origem. Para enriquecer o trabalho com reflexões que ultrapassam a rotina local de trabalho, foram acrescentadas comparações da metodologia da ECA com padrões internacionais.
A Metodologia AMMI: com aplicação ao melhoramento genético
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz (ESALQ), Dias Carlos Tadeu dos Santos , Hongyu Kuang ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz (ESALQ), Araújo Lúcio Borges de ,   Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Silva Maria Joseane Cruz da ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz (ESALQ), Peña Marisol García ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz (ESALQ), Araújo Mirian Fernandes Carvalho ,   Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Rodrigues Paulo Canas ,   Universidade Federal da Bahia, Faria Priscila Neves ,   Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Alarcón Sergio Arciniegas ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz (ESALQ)
Published: April 2016

Os capítulos podem ser lidos de forma independente. O primeiro é introdutório, focalizando a interação genótipo por ambiente e o enfoque estatístico, apresentando o modelo AMMI, o gráfico Biplot e validação cruzada. O capítulo 2 cobre a distribuição empírica dos autovalores da matriz de interação, utilizando reamostragem bootstrap. O capítulo 3 discute a divergência genética utilizando reamostragem bootstrap e análise de agrupamento. O capítulo 4 trás e aplica um método de correção de autovalores viesados e mostra a eficiência da correção. O capítulo 5 apresenta um teste para confirmar a contribuição de genótipos e ambientes para a interação. O capítulo 6 trata da imputação simples e múltipla para observações ausentes na matriz de interação. O capítulo 7 trás os modelos AMMI bivariados utilizando a análise de procrustes. O capítulo 8 cobre o modelo AMMI no estudo da interação entre QTL e ambiente. O capítulo 9 contém a generalização dos modelos AMMI para três fatores com uso dos modelos PARAFAC e TUCKER, gráficos Joint plot e Triplot. Salientamos que os resultados apresentados aqui foram obtidos pelos autores e portanto, a notação algébrica pode não seguir o mesmo padrão em cada capítulo.
A report of hailstorm damage to two species of freshwater sponge (Demospongiae: Haplosclerida: Spongillidae) populations of West Bengal, India
Authors: Mukherjee Soumalya , Ray Mitali , Ray Sajal
Published: April 2016

Selected freshwater bodies in Jagaddal of North 24 Parganas in West Bengal, India are inhabited by two species of sponge, Eunapius carteri (Bowerbank, 1863) and Spongilla alba (Carter, 1849) (Porifera: Demospongiae: Spongillidae). Most of these wetlands are perennial ponds without a history of aquaculture and toxin contamination. On 22 March 2014, the entire area of Jagaddal experienced an unprecedented hailstorm associated with a sharp decline of environmental temperature from 35 0C to 21 0C within 10–15 minutes. The hailstorm associated with torrential rain lasted for about 30 minutes. The natural habitat of the sponge was visited after six hours of the hailstorm in open day light conditions. During the field investigation, we recorded large-scale damage to the populations of E. carteri and S. alba. Macroscopic observation revealed that the fragmentation of body masses were also associated with cellular disintegration of the external surface. Sponge cells were experimentally dissociated from the sponge fragments and subjected to dye exclusion assay. A vital dye (trypan blue) exclusion assay of sponge fragments confirmed a high degree of mortality of the cells of E. carteri and S. alba. Hailstorm associated with the decline of environmental temperature down to 21 0C resulted in the mass destruction of these two species of sponges in their natural habitat. Any unprecedented and acute change in the climatic and hydrological parameter may lead to physiological adversity in the freshwater sponge. Subsequently, recovery from cold shock and mechanical stresses was overcome and a regeneration of sponge specimens was recorded within a period of around six months from the date of the hailstorm.
Occurrence of Trissolcus jatrophae Rajmohana et al. 2011 (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae) in Pune City, India
Authors: Nerlekar Ashish N. , Rajmohana K.
Published: April 2016

Trissolcus jatrophae Rajmohana et al. 2011, a parasitoid wasp has been observed to parasitize hemipteran eggs laid on Jatropha nana Dalzell & Gibson (Euphorbiaceae) growing in Pune city, Maharashtra. In the present communication, this wasp has been reported for the first time on a new host plant species, and the occurrence of this wasp also forms a new distributional record.
Sighting of Red-breasted Parakeet Psittacula alexandri (Linnaeus, 1758) (Psittaciformes: Psittaculidae) from Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
Authors: John Linda , Gopalan Sujith V. , Priyanka S. , Laladhas Krishna Panicker
Published: April 2016

Red-breasted Parakeet is one among the most widespread parakeets of the world.  The ‘Near Threatened’ bird has been in pet trade for long and is already known as a feral bird from major cities in India.  The biodiversity of India has been threatened by many alien invasive species and some have been of a serious threat to native species pushing them to extinction.  Though Red-breasted Parakeet with a limited population in many of the cities is of no immediate threat, an increase in population can be of serious threat to native bird species.  In this paper, we report the new sighting of Red-breasted Parakeet from Vellayani-Punjakari wetlands, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala and discuss the possible threats this particular species can impart to the native bird diversity.
Butterflies of Garhwal, Uttarakhand, western Himalaya, India
Authors: Singh Arun P. , Sondhi Sanjay
Published: April 2016

Thirty percent of butterfly species that occur in India are found in the Garhwal region of the western Himalaya, which comprise six districts of Uttarakhand State with five major vegetation types lying between the catchments of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers.  The annotated checklist compiled here for this region comprises 407 species and takes into account all the species recorded since 1899, when the first list of 323 species was prepared by Mackinnon & de Nicéville on the ‘butterflies of Mussoorie and its adjacent areas’.  Over a 20 year period (1986–1990; 2000–June 2015) the present authors maintained detailed notes and were able personally to record 349 species.  This information is presented in a checklist, together with details of the month, year and site of each record, relative abundance, Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 (IWPA) status, as well as references of earlier records made by other authors in Garhwal for those species that the authors were not able to record themselves.  Forty-nine species recorded in the region have been placed under various schedules of IWPA; only one species, the Golden Emperor Dilipa morgiana Westwood, is listed in Schedule I Part IV, the others being mainly included under Schedule II Part II.  The paper also discusses new range extensions and significant records (past and present), identifies major biotic factors that threaten butterfly diversity in Garhwal, and suggests the scope for butterfly ecotourism in the state as an option for long term conservation.
Oxygraphis delavayi Franchet (Ranunculaceae): a new generic record for Arunachal Pradesh and a new species record for India
Authors: Tiwari Umeshkumar L.
Published: April 2016

Oxygraphis delavayi Franch. (Ranunculaceae) is an endemic plant species occurring in China.  It is reported here for the first time from India.  A detailed description, herbarium image and relevant notes are provided for its collection and identification.
Effectivness of the GnRH analogue deslorelin as a reversible contraceptive in a neotropical primate, the Common Marmoset Callithrix Jacchus (Mammalia: Primates: Callitrichidae)
Authors: Rosenfield Derek A. , Viau P. , Oliveira C. A. , Pizzutto Cristiane Schilbach
Published: April 2016

Deslorelin is a synthetic GnRH analogue, which is being used as a contraceptive in animals by acting as a gonadal suppressant.  The product Suprelorin (Virbac, Australia) contains deslorelin as a biocompatible, slow release subcutaneous implant. The continuous release of deslorelin provokes a down-regulation of GnRH receptors, and subsequently, inhibition of the synthesis and release of the gonadotropins FSH and LH, necessary for gonadal activities.  The intention of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a subcutaneous deslorelin acetate implant (2,35mg) in suppressing ovarian cyclic activity and inhibiting ovulation in captive Common Marmoset Callithrix jacchus, and investigate the reversibility of the treatment.  Two experimental groups were formed, group deslorelin (D) with three couples and control group (C) with two couples.  To monitor the effect of the implants, hormones indicating ovarian cyclic activity were monitored non-invasively by enzyme immunoassay (fecal monoclonal antibody anti-progesterone CL 425).  Fecal samples were collected three times a week from all females during three trial phases (phase I: month 1,2,3 and 4; phase II: month: 5,6 and 7 and phase III: month 8,9 and 10).  In contrast to expectations the results of this trial indicated that there was no suppression of the ovarian cyclic activity, nor inhibition of the ovulation after the application of the implants.  The outcome of our trial can possibly be explained by the fact that the dosage of 2.35mg of deslorelin is not effective in C. jacchus.  We confirmed significant changes (p<0.05) of P4 metabolites from phase I to phase II due to the treatment after the implantation of the GnRH analogue Deslorelin.  The employed non-invasive fecal progesterone monitoring could be biologically validated and proved to be efficient in the detection of ovarian cyclic activity in this neotropical primate species, C. jacchus.
Practices and attitudes of Indian catch-and-release anglers: identifying opportunities for advancing the management of recreational fisheries
Authors: Gupta Nishikant , Bower Shannon D. , Cooke Steven J. , Danylchuk Andy J. , Raghavan Rajeev
Published: April 2016

Recreational fishing, a popular leisure activity, can potentially support conservation of species and provide socio-economic benefits to local economies.  Nonetheless, there are ecological concerns regarding this pastime, especially in developing economies such as India where little information is available concerning impacts on fish populations.  An online survey targeting recreational anglers practicing catch-and-release (C&R) in India (n=200) revealed 25 states/union territories as prime angling locations, with Mahseer (Tor spp.) constituting the main target species group (53%).  Angling season (28%) and pristine river surroundings (14%) were stated as major factors important for angling, while overfishing (31%) and the use of illegal fishing techniques were highlighted as chief threats to fish species.  Respondents were in favour of strictly adhering to C&R guidelines (23%), controlling illegal fishing techniques and pollution (18%) and spreading awareness and education among local stakeholders (18%) to protect fish.  Over 75% of respondents were also willing to contribute both their time and money to conservation initiatives focusing on key sport fish.  With anglers targeting multiple fishing locations throughout India, there is a need for consistent governance structures and policy instruments to support the development of sustainable recreational fisheries while minimising conflict with other stakeholder groups.  The impacts of C&R fisheries interactions on individuals and populations (especially for threatened species) need to be studied in the Indian context.  Direct participation by recreational anglers in C&R research could strengthen broader conservation and management initiatives throughout the country by increasing stewardship.
A preliminary checklist of spiders (Araneae: Arachnida) in Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Western Ghats, India
Authors: Adarsh C. K. , Nameer P. O.
Published: April 2016

A preliminary study was conducted to document spider diversity in Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Idukki District, Kerala State in southern India.  The study was conducted from October to November 2012.  A total of 101 species of spiders belonging to 65 genera from 29 families were identified from the sanctuary.  This accounted for 6.98% of Indian spider species, 17.81% of Indian spider genera and 48.33% of the spider families of India.  The dominant families were Lycosidae (11 species) and Araneidae (10).  Two endemic genera of Indian spiders such as Annandaliella and Neoheterophrictus were found at Chinnar, each representing one species each, and belonging to the family Theraphosidae.  A guild structure analysis of the spiders revealed seven feeding guilds such as orb weavers, stalkers, ground runners, foliage runners, sheet web builders, space web builders and ambushers.
Metabolic Characterization of a Rare Genetic Variation Within
APOC3
and Its Lipoprotein Lipase–Independent Effects
Authors: Drenos Fotios , Davey Smith George , Ala-Korpela Mika , Kettunen Johannes , Würtz Peter , Soininen Pasi , Kangas Antti J. , Dale Caroline , Lawlor Debbie A. , Gaunt Tom R. , Casas Juan-Pablo , Timpson Nicholas J.
Published: April 2016

Background—

Plasma triglyceride levels have been implicated in atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease. Apolipoprotein C-III (APOC3) plays a key role in the hydrolysis of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins to remnant particles by lipoprotein lipase (LPL) and their uptake by the liver. A rare variant in
APOC3
(rs138326449) has been associated with triglyceride, very low–density lipoprotein, and high-density lipoprotein levels, as well as risk of coronary heart disease. We aimed to characterize the impact of this locus across a broad set of mainly lipids-focused metabolic measures.

Methods and Results—

A high-throughput serum nuclear magnetic resonance metabolomics platform was used to quantify 225 metabolic measures in 13 285 participants from 2 European population cohorts. We analyzed the effect of the
APOC3
variant on the metabolic measures and used the common
LPL
(rs12678919) polymorphism to test for LPL-independent effects. Eighty-one metabolic measures showed evidence of association with
APOC3
(rs138326449). In addition to previously reported triglyceride and high-density lipoprotein associations, the variant was also associated with very low–density lipoprotein and high-density lipoprotein composition measures, other cholesterol measures, and fatty acids. Comparison of the
APOC3
and
LPL
associations revealed that
APOC3
association results for medium and very large very low–density lipoprotein composition are unlikely to be solely predictable by the action of APOC3 through LPL.

Conclusions—

We characterized the effects of the rare
APOC3
(rs138326449) loss of function mutation in lipoprotein metabolism, as well as the effects of
LPL
(rs12678919). Our results improve our understanding of the role of
APOC3
in triglyceride metabolism, its
LPL
independent action, and the complex and correlated nature of human metabolites.
Patients With Coronary Endothelial Dysfunction Have Impaired Cholesterol Efflux Capacity and Reduced HDL Particle Concentration
Authors: Monette Jeffrey S. , Hutchins Patrick M. , Ronsein Graziella E. , Wimberger Jake , Irwin Angela D. , Tang Chongren , Sara Jaskanwal D. , Shao Baohai , Vaisar Tomas , Lerman Amir , Heinecke Jay W.
Published: April 2016

Rationale:

Coronary endothelial dysfunction (ED)—an early marker of atherosclerosis—increases the risk of cardiovascular events.

Objective:

We tested the hypothesis that cholesterol efflux capacity and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) particle concentration predict coronary ED better than HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C).

Methods and Results:

We studied 80 subjects with nonobstructive (<30% stenosis) coronary artery disease. ED was defined as <50% change in coronary blood flow in response to intracoronary infusions of acetylcholine during diagnostic coronary angiography. Cholesterol efflux capacity and HDL particle concentration (HDL-P
IMA
) were assessed with validated assays. Cholesterol efflux capacity and HDL-P
IMA
were both strong, inverse predictors of ED (
P
<0.001 and 0.005, respectively). In contrast, HDL-C and other traditional lipid risk factors did not differ significantly between control and ED subjects. Large HDL particles were markedly decreased in ED subjects (33%;
P
=0.005). After correction for HDL-C, both efflux capacity and HDL-P
IMA
remained significant predictors of ED status. HDL-P
IMA
explained cholesterol efflux capacity more effectively than HDL-C (
r
=0.54 and 0.36, respectively). The efflux capacities of isolated HDL and serum HDL correlated strongly (
r
=0.49).

Conclusions:

Cholesterol efflux capacity and HDL-P
IMA
are reduced in subjects with coronary ED, independently of HDL-C. Alterations in HDL-P
IMA
and HDL itself account for a much larger fraction of the variation in cholesterol efflux capacity than does HDL-C. A selective decrease in large HDL particles may contribute to impaired cholesterol efflux capacity in ED subjects. These observations support a role for HDL size, concentration, and function as markers—and perhaps mediators—of coronary atherosclerosis in humans.
Akkermansia Muciniphila
Protects Against Atherosclerosis by Preventing Metabolic Endotoxemia-Induced Inflammation in
Apoe
−/−
Mice
Authors: Li Jin , Lin Shaoqiang , Vanhoutte Paul M. , Woo Connie W. , Xu Aimin
Published: April 2016

Background—

Altered composition of the gut microbiota is involved in both the onset and progression of obesity and diabetes mellitus. However, the link between gut microbiota and obesity-related cardiovascular complications has not been explored. The present study was designed to investigate the role of
Akkermansia muciniphila
, a mucin-degrading bacterium with beneficial effects on metabolism, in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E–deficient (
Apoe
−/−
) mice.

Methods and Results—

Apoe
−/−
mice on normal chow diet or a Western diet were treated with
A muciniphila
by daily oral gavage for 8 weeks, followed by histological evaluations of atherosclerotic lesion in aorta. Real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis demonstrated that the fecal abundance of
A muciniphila
was significantly reduced by Western diet. Replenishment with
A muciniphila
reversed Western diet–induced exacerbation of atherosclerotic lesion formation without affecting hypercholesterolemia.
A muciniphila
prevented Western diet–induced inflammation in both the circulation and local atherosclerotic lesion, as evidenced by reduced macrophage infiltration and expression of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines. These changes were accompanied by a marked attenuation in metabolic endotoxemia.
A muciniphila
–mediated reduction in circulating endotoxin level could be attributed to the induction of intestinal expression of the tight junction proteins (zona occuldens protein-1 and occludin), thereby reversing Western diet–induced increases in gut permeability. Long-term infusion of endotoxin to
Apoe
−/−
mice reversed the protective effect of
A muciniphila
against atherosclerosis.

Conclusion—

A muciniphila
attenuates atherosclerotic lesions by ameliorating metabolic endotoxemia-induced inflammation through restoration of the gut barrier.
Chronic Blockade of the Androgen Receptor Abolishes Age-Dependent Increases in Blood Pressure in Female Growth-Restricted Rats
Authors: Dasinger John Henry , Intapad Suttira , Rudsenske Benjamin R. , Davis Gwendolyn K. , Newsome Ashley D. , Alexander Barbara T.
Published: April 2016

Intrauterine growth restriction induced via placental insufficiency programs a significant increase in blood pressure at 12 months of age in female growth-restricted rats that is associated with early cessation of estrous cyclicity, indicative of premature reproductive senescence. In addition, female growth-restricted rats at 12 months of age exhibit a significant increase in circulating testosterone with no change in circulating estradiol. Testosterone is positively associated with blood pressure after menopause in women. Thus, we tested the hypothesis that androgen receptor blockade would abolish the significant increase in blood pressure that develops with age in female growth-restricted rats. Mean arterial pressure was measured in animals pretreated with and without the androgen receptor antagonist, flutamide (8 mg/kg/day, SC for 2 weeks). Flutamide abolished the significant increase in blood pressure in growth-restricted rats relative to control at 12 months of age. To examine the mechanism(s) by which androgens contribute to increased blood pressure in growth-restricted rats, blood pressure was assessed in rats untreated or treated with enalapril (250 mg/L for 2 weeks). Enalapril eliminated the increase in blood pressure in growth-restricted relative to vehicle- and flutamide-treated controls. Furthermore, the increase in medullary angiotensin type 1 receptor mRNA expression was abolished in flutamide-treated growth-restricted relative to untreated counterparts and controls; cortical angiotensin-converting enzyme mRNA expression was reduced in flutamide-treated growth-restricted versus untreated counterparts. Thus, these data indicate that androgens, via activation of the renin–angiotensin system, are important mediators of increased blood pressure that develops by 12 months of age in female growth-restricted rats.
Do Grade Weights Promote More Advanced Course-Taking?
Authors: Klopfenstein Kristin , Lively Kit
Published: April 2016

When calculating class rank, high schools often give additional weight to grades earned in College Board Advanced Placement (AP) courses as an incentive for students to take hard courses. This paper examines changes in student course-taking behavior after an increase in AP grade weights at Texas high schools. We find that raising the magnitude of the AP grade weight in schools already using weights has a small impact that is limited to white students who are not eligible for free or reduced-price lunch (FRPL). When schools introduce grade weights for the first time, the impact is large and widespread with the probability of taking an AP course increasing by 3 to 12 percent and the number of AP courses taken increasing by 0.13 to 0.95 standard deviations. Impacts are largest among students who are not FRPL eligible.
First in the Class? Age and the Education Production Function
Authors: Cascio Elizabeth U. , Schanzenbach Diane Whitmore
Published: April 2016

We estimate the effects of relative age in kindergarten using data from an experiment where children of the same age were randomly assigned to different kindergarten classmates. We exploit the resulting experimental variation in relative age in conjunction with variation in expected kindergarten entry age based on birthdate to account for negative selection of some of the older school entrants. We find that, holding constant own age, having older classmates on average improves educational outcomes, increasing test scores up to eight years after kindergarten, and raising the probability of taking a college-entry exam. These findings suggest that delaying kindergarten entry, or so-called academic “redshirting,” does not harm other children—and may in fact benefit them—consistent with positive spillovers from higher-scoring or better-behaved peers.