bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chondroprotective effects and mechanisms of resveratrol in advanced glycation end products-stimulated chondrocytes
Authors: Liu Feng-Cheng , Hung Li-Feng , Wu Wan-Lin , Chang Deh-Ming , Huang Chuan-Yueh , Lai Jenn-Haung , Ho Ling-Jun
Published: September 2010

Introduction

Accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in joints contributes to the pathogenesis of cartilage damage in osteoarthritis (OA). We aim to explore the potential chondroprotective effects of resveratrol on AGEs-stimulated porcine chondrocytes and cartilage explants.

Methods

Chondrocytes were isolated from pig joints. Activation of the IκB kinase (IKK)-IκBα-nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)-activator protein-1 (AP-1) pathways was assessed by electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA), Western blot and transfection assay. The levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS)-NO and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)-prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) were measured by Western blot, Griess reaction or ELISA. The expression and enzyme activity of matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13) were determined by real time RT/PCR and gelatin zymography, respectively.

Results

We show that AGEs-induced expression of iNOS and COX-2 and production of NO and PGE2 were suppressed by resveratrol. Such effects of resveratrol were likely mediated through inhibiting IKK-IκBα-NF-κB and JNK/ERK-AP-1 signaling pathways induced by AGEs. By targeting these critical signaling pathways, resveratrol decreased AGEs-stimulated expression and activity of MMP-13 and prevented AGEs-mediated destruction of collagen II. Histochemistry analysis further confirms that resveratrol could prevent AGEs-induced degradation of proteoglycan and aggrecan in cartilage explants.

Conclusions

The present study reveals not only the effects and mechanisms regarding how resveratrol may protect cartilage from AGEs-mediated damage but also the potential therapeutic benefit of resveratrol in the treatment of OA.
Interleukin-10 gene down-expression in circulating mononuclear cells during infusion of drotrecogin-α activated: a pilot study
Authors: Lavaux Thomas , Bilbault Pascal , Launoy Anne , Gaub Marie-Pierre , Oudet Pierre , Schneider Francis
Published: September 2010

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to investigate the gene expression of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) in circulating mononuclear cells harvested from septic shock patients on drotrecogin-α activated (DAA) in order to determine whether this treatment has any effect on the inflammation phase.

Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study in two intensive care departments. Blood samples were collected at inclusion (T1) and 36 hours later (T2) to measure plasma cytokines and the changes in intracellular TNF-α, IL-10 and IFN-γ mRNA expressions using the real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Thirty-two septic shock patients were included: 16 with DAA at 24 μg/kg/h for 96 hours (DAA+) and 16 control (DAA-) eligible but contraindicated for DAA because of low platelet count.

Results

The basal characteristics were similar in both groups: mortality (50%), plasma cytokine concentrations, and baseline IFN-γ, TNF-α and IL-10 mRNA expressions (DAA+ vs. DAA-). At T2, there was a significant IFN-γ gene down-regulation in DAA+ but not in DAA- patients (-0.34 (-0.62; +1.54) vs. +1.41 (+0.35; +5.87), P = 0.008). In survivors, DAA administration was associated with a down-expression of both IFN-γ (-0.65 (-0.93; 0.48) vs. +0.7 (-0.04; +1.26), P = 0.01) and IL-10 (-0.78 (-0.92; -0.6) vs. -0.18 (-0.68; +0.46), P = 0.038). In the non-survivors, DAA infusion was associated with IL-10 over-expression when compared with survivors (+0.54 (-0.35; +11.52) vs. -0.78 (-0.92; -0.6), P < 0.001).

Conclusions

In this study, lack of IL-10 gene down-expression despite a 36-hour infusion of DAA is an ominous sign in septic shock patients suggesting that DAA is not able to reverse the outcome. Our results suggest that DAA can decrease the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines in septic shock patients. IL-10 or IFN-γ gene down-expression could represent markers of DAA response.
Medulloblastoma Comprises Four Distinct Molecular Variants
Authors: Northcott Paul A. , Korshunov Andrey , Witt Hendrik , Hielscher Thomas , Eberhart Charles G. , Mack Stephen , Bouffet Eric , Clifford Steven C. , Hawkins Cynthia E. , French Pim , Rutka James T. , Pfister Stefan , Taylor Michael D.
Published: September 2010

Purpose

Recent genomic approaches have suggested the existence of multiple distinct subtypes of medulloblastoma. We studied a large cohort of medulloblastomas to determine how many subgroups of the disease exist, how they differ, and the extent of overlap between subgroups.

Methods

We determined gene expression profiles and DNA copy number aberrations for 103 primary medulloblastomas. Bioinformatic tools were used for class discovery of medulloblastoma subgroups based on the most informative genes in the data set. Immunohistochemistry for subgroup-specific signature genes was used to determine subgroup affiliation for 294 nonoverlapping medulloblastomas on two independent tissue microarrays.

Results

Multiple unsupervised analyses of transcriptional profiles identified the following four distinct, nonoverlapping molecular variants: WNT, SHH, group C, and group D. Supervised analysis of these four subgroups revealed significant subgroup-specific demographics, histology, metastatic status, and DNA copy number aberrations. Immunohistochemistry for DKK1 (WNT), SFRP1 (SHH), NPR3 (group C), and KCNA1 (group D) could reliably and uniquely classify formalin-fixed medulloblastomas in approximately 98% of patients. Group C patients (NPR3-positive tumors) exhibited a significantly diminished progression-free and overall survival irrespective of their metastatic status.

Conclusion

Our integrative genomics approach to a large cohort of medulloblastomas has identified four disparate subgroups with distinct demographics, clinical presentation, transcriptional profiles, genetic abnormalities, and clinical outcome. Medulloblastomas can be reliably assigned to subgroups through immunohistochemistry, thereby making medulloblastoma subclassification widely available. Future research on medulloblastoma and the development of clinical trials should take into consideration these four distinct types of medulloblastoma.
Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology Training for Health Professionals: A Position Statement
Authors: Hayes-Lattin Brandon , Mathews-Bradshaw Beth , Siegel Stuart
Published: September 2010

We outline here the essential elements of training for health care professionals who work with adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients with cancer. Research is emerging that a number of cancers manifest themselves differently in the AYA population, both in terms of biology and treatment response. In addition, there are a number of issues uniquely experienced by the AYA population that are critical for health care professionals working within AYA oncology (AYAO) to understand. The LIVESTRONG Young Adult Alliance, a Lance Armstrong Foundation program and a result of the Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology Progress Review Group cosponsored by the Lance Armstrong Foundation and the National Cancer Institute, assembled a group of experts representing relevant medical, psychosocial, and advocacy disciplines to create a blueprint for the training and development of health care professionals caring for AYA patients with cancer. The Alliance recommends that all health care professionals working in AYAO receive training that provides expertise in the following three critical areas: AYA-specific medical knowledge; care delivery specific to AYAs relative to pediatric and older adult populations; and competency in application and delivery of AYA-specific practical knowledge. These three areas should form the foundation for curricula and programs designed to train health care professionals caring for AYAO patients.
Using Facebook to Teach Rhetorical Analysis
Authors: Fife Jane Mathison
Published: September 2010

This article describes an assignment that involves students in an exploration of the rhetorical practices common in Facebook, making use of rhetorical savvy that they have—but generally are not aware of—to teach the often-challenging skill of rhetorical analysis. The class discusses articles about Facebook use and redefines traditional Aristotelian rhetorical concepts in the context of the visually rich and collage-like texts that are Facebook profiles. Students take their cues from an anthropologist's analysis of identity representation on dorm doors to explore rhetorical practices of exaggeration also discernable in Facebook profiles. Students and teacher note features from Facebook pages that suggest tendencies to be popular versus being an individual or signs of addiction to the networking tool. This assignment that brings academic analysis to bear on non-academic literacy practices like the construction of Facebook profiles encourages students to reflect critically on daily activities that involve more complex rhetorical skills than they might otherwise notice. In addition to making students' often-tacit rhetorical knowledge explicit, breaking down the usual division between school and non-school rhetorics in this exploration of Facebook helps to educate teachers about their students' digital literacy practices.
Clinical dashboards: do they actually work in practice? Three-year experience with the Maternity Dashboard
Authors: Chandraharan Edwin
Published: September 2010

Clinical governance refers to a system or a framework through which National Health Service (NHS) organizations are accountable for continuously improving the quality of their services and safeguarding high standards of care, by creating an environment in which clinical excellence will flourish. Various ‘dashboards’ or ‘score cards’ are currently being promoted with an intention of improving patient care and outcomes. It is believed that a closer observation of selected parameters, on a regular basis, may facilitate timely action, thereby avoiding adverse incidents. It is, therefore, hoped that such ‘dashboards’ or ‘score cards’ may also help clinicians, managers, trust boards, commissioners and patients to identify areas of good clinical practice and also to recognize areas that require improvement.
Brucellosis-Induced Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia Treated with Rituximab
Authors: Bourantas Lambros K , Pappas Georgios , Kapsali Eleni , Gougopoulou Dora , Papamichail Dimitrios , Bourantas Konstantinos L
Published: September 2010

Objective:

To present a case of brucellosis-induced severe autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) that was refractory to traditional corticosteroid treatment and eventually treated with rituximab apart from antibiotic therapy and to discuss the potential role of rituximab in similar cases of AIHA triggered by an underlying reversible cause.

Case Summary:

A 79-year-old woman was diagnosed with severe AIHA (reticulocyte count 21.5%, hemoglobin 6 g/dL). Initial treatment with prednisone in a regional hospital was not efficacious. Brucellosis was diagnosed by serology; the disease was further complicated by hepatic and splenic granulomatous involvement and sacral bone localization. Due to the severity of AIHA as demonstrated by reticulocyte count and hemoglobin levels, the initial unresponsiveness to corticosteroid therapy, the potential of the underlying infectious cause to relapse along with AIHA, and the localization of the pathogen in a focal site (bone involvement) that could act as a constant AIHA trigger, the patient was treated aggressively with rituximab, apart from the typical antimicrobial therapy.

Discussion:

Brucellosis can induce autoimmunity and mimic primary hematologic diseases. We reviewed reports on the unique forms of Brucella-induced hemolysis available in the literature. Massive hemolysis, though, is rare, and in the case of a pathogen such as brucellosis, one cannot ignore the potential for infection relapse accompanied by hemolysis relapse. Cases refractory to corticosteroids are typically treated with invasive amputative procedures such as splenectomy. However, in cases where an underlying therapeutically reversible cause of infection can be identified, the proven short-term efficacy and safety profile of rituximab can be of significance.

Conclusions:

Novel therapeutic approaches with molecular agents such as rituximab may assist in treatment of considerably severe infectious pathogen-induced autoimmune hemolytic anemia that is refractory to first-line therapy.
GABAergic Inhibition Sharpens the Frequency Tuning and Enhances Phase Locking in Chicken Nucleus Magnocellularis Neurons
Authors: Fukui Iwao , Burger R. Michael , Ohmori Harunori , Rubel Edwin W
Published: September 2010

GABAergic modulation of activity in avian cochlear nucleus neurons has been studied extensivelyin vitro. However, how this modulation actually influences processingin vivois not known. We investigated responses of chicken nucleus magnocellularis (NM) neurons to sound while pharmacologically manipulating the inhibitory input from the superior olivary nucleus (SON). SON receives excitatory inputs from nucleus angularis (NA) and nucleus laminaris (NL), and provides GABAergic inputs to NM, NA, NL, and putatively to the contralateral SON. Results from single-unit extracellular recordings from 2 to 4 weeks posthatch chickens show that firing rates of auditory nerve fibers increased monotonically with sound intensity, while that of NM neurons saturated or even decreased at moderate or loud sound levels. Blocking GABAergic input with local application of TTX into the SON induced an increase in firing rate of ipsilateral NM, while that of the contralateral NM decreased at high sound levels. Moreover, local application of bicuculline to NM also increased the firing rate of NM neurons at high sound levels, reduced phase locking, and broadened the frequency-tuning properties of NM neurons. Following application of DNQX, clear evidence of inhibition was observed. Furthermore, the inhibition was tuned to a broader frequency range than the excitatory response areas. We conclude that GABAergic inhibition from SON has at least three physiological influences on the activity of NM neurons: it regulates the firing activity of NM units in a sound-level-dependent manner; it improves phase selectivity; and it sharpens frequency tuning of NM neuronal responses.
Early B-Cell Factors Are Required for Specifying Multiple Retinal Cell Types and Subtypes from Postmitotic Precursors
Authors: Jin Kangxin , Jiang Haisong , Mo Zeqian , Xiang Mengqing
Published: September 2010

The establishment of functional retinal circuits in the mammalian retina depends critically on the proper generation and assembly of six classes of neurons, five of which consist of two or more subtypes that differ in morphologies, physiological properties, and/or sublaminar positions. How these diverse neuronal types and subtypes arise during retinogenesis still remains largely to be defined at the molecular level. Here we show that all four family members of the early B-cell factor (Ebf) helix-loop-helix transcription factors are similarly expressed during mouse retinogenesis in several neuronal types and subtypes including ganglion, amacrine, bipolar, and horizontal cells, and that their expression in ganglion cells depends on the ganglion cell specification factor Brn3b. Misexpressed Ebfs bias retinal precursors toward the fates of non-AII glycinergic amacrine, type 2 OFF-cone bipolar and horizontal cells, whereas a dominant-negative Ebf suppresses the differentiation of these cells as well as ganglion cells. Reducing Ebf1 expression by RNA interference (RNAi) leads to an inhibitory effect similar to that of the dominant-negative Ebf, effectively neutralizes the promotive effect of wild-type Ebf1, but has no impact on the promotive effect of an RNAi-resistant Ebf1. These data indicate that Ebfs are both necessary and sufficient for specifying non-AII glycinergic amacrine, type 2 OFF-cone bipolar and horizontal cells, whereas they are only necessary but not sufficient for specifying ganglion cells; and further suggest that Ebfs may coordinate and cooperate with other retinogenic factors to ensure proper specification and differentiation of diverse retinal cell types and subtypes.
Multivesicular Release Differentiates the Reliability of Synaptic Transmission between the Visual Cortex and the Somatosensory Cortex
Authors: Huang Chao-Hua , Bao Jin , Sakaba Takeshi
Published: September 2010

Neurons in layer 4 (L4) of the cortex play an important role in transferring signals from thalamus to other layers of the cortex. Understanding the fundamental properties of synaptic transmission between L4 neurons helps us gain a clear picture of how the neuronal network in L4 cooperates to process sensory information. In the present study, we have determined the underlying parameters that govern synaptic strength, such as quantal size, size of readily releasable vesicle pool, and release probability (Pr) of excitatory synaptic connections within L4 of the visual cortex (V1) and the somatosensory cortex (S1) in mice. Although only a single vesicle is released per release site under physiological conditions at V1 synapses, multivesicular release (MVR) is observed at S1 synapses. In addition, we observed a saturation of postsynaptic receptors at S1 synapses. Other synaptic properties are similar in both cortices. Dynamic clamp experiments suggest that higher Pr and MVR at S1 synapses lower the requirement of the number of synaptic inputs to generate postsynaptic action potentials. In addition, the slower decay of synaptic current and the intrinsic membrane properties of the postsynaptic neuron also contribute to the reliable transmission between S1 neurons.
NMDA-Mediated Ca2+Influx Drives Aberrant Ryanodine Receptor Activation in Dendrites of Young Alzheimer's Disease Mice
Authors: Goussakov Ivan , Miller Megan B. , Stutzmann Grace E.
Published: September 2010

Deficits in synaptic function, particularly through NMDA receptors (NMDARs), are linked to late-stage cognitive impairments in Alzheimer's disease (AD). At earlier disease stages, however, there is evidence for altered endoplasmic reticulum (ER) calcium signaling in human cases and in neurons from AD mouse models. Despite the fundamental importance of calcium to synaptic function, neither the extent of ER calcium dysregulation in dendrites nor its interaction with synaptic function in AD pathophysiology is known. Identifying the mechanisms underlying early synaptic calcium dysregulation in AD pathogenesis is likely a key component to understanding, and thereby preventing, the synapse loss and downstream cognitive impairments. Using two-photon calcium imaging, flash photolysis of caged glutamate, and patch-clamp electrophysiology in cortical brain slices, we examined interactions between synaptically and ER-evoked calcium release at glutamatergic synapses in young AD transgenic mice. We found increased ryanodine receptor-evoked calcium signals within dendritic spine heads, dendritic processes, and the soma of pyramidal neurons from 3xTg-AD and TAS/TPM AD mice relative to NonTg controls. In addition, synaptically evoked postsynaptic calcium responses were larger in the AD strains, as were calcium signals generated from NMDAR activation. However, calcium responses triggered by back-propagating action potentials were not different. Concurrent activation of ryanodine receptors (RyRs) with either synaptic or NMDAR stimulation generated a supra-additive calcium response in the AD strains, suggesting an aberrant calcium-induced calcium release (CICR) effect within spines and dendrites. We propose thatpresenilin-linked disruptions in RyR signaling and subsequent CICR via NMDAR-mediated calcium influx alters synaptic function and serves as an early pathogenic factor in AD.
Incentive Learning Underlying Cocaine-Seeking Requires mGluR5 Receptors Located on Dopamine D1 Receptor-Expressing Neurons
Authors: Novak Martin , Halbout Briac , O'Connor Eoin C. , Rodriguez Parkitna Jan , Su Tian , Chai Minqiang , Crombag Hans S. , Bilbao Ainhoa , Spanagel Rainer , Stephens David N. , Schütz Günther , Engblom David
Published: September 2010

Understanding the psychobiological basis of relapse remains a challenge in developing therapies for drug addiction. Relapse in cocaine addiction often occurs following exposure to environmental stimuli previously associated with drug taking. The metabotropic glutamate receptor, mGluR5, is potentially important in this respect; it plays a central role in several forms of striatal synaptic plasticity proposed to underpin associative learning and memory processes that enable drug-paired stimuli to acquire incentive motivational properties and trigger relapse. Using cell type-specific RNA interference, we have generated a novel mouse line with a selective knock-down of mGluR5 in dopamine D1 receptor-expressing neurons. Although mutant mice self-administer cocaine, we show that reinstatement of cocaine-seeking induced by a cocaine-paired stimulus is impaired. By examining different aspects of associative learning in the mutant mice, we identify deficits in specific incentive learning processes that enable a reward-paired stimulus to directly reinforce behavior and to become attractive, thus eliciting approach toward it. Our findings show that glutamate signaling through mGluR5 located on dopamine D1 receptor-expressing neurons is necessary for incentive learning processes that contribute to cue-induced reinstatement of cocaine-seeking and which may underpin relapse in drug addiction.
Delays Conferred by Escalating Costs Modulate Dopamine Release to Rewards But Not Their Predictors
Authors: Wanat Matthew J. , Kuhnen Camelia M. , Phillips Paul E. M.
Published: September 2010

Efficient reward seeking is essential for survival and invariably requires overcoming costs, such as physical effort and delay, which are constantly changing in natural settings. Dopamine transmission has been implicated in decisions weighing the benefits and costs of obtaining a reward, but it is still unclear how dynamically changing effort and delay costs affect dopamine signaling to rewards and related stimuli. Using fast-scan cyclic voltammetry, we examined phasic dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens (NAcc) core and shell during reward-seeking behavior in rats. To manipulate the effort and time needed to earn a reward, we used instrumental tasks in which the response requirements (number of lever presses) were either fixed throughout a behavioral session [fixed ratio (FR)] or systematically increased from trial to trial [progressive ratio (PR)]. Dopamine release evoked by cues denoting reward availability was no different between these conditions, indicating insensitivity to escalating effort or delay costs. In contrast, dopamine release to reward delivery in both the NAcc core and shell increased in PR, but not in FR, sessions. This enhancement of reward-evoked dopamine signaling was also observed in sessions in which the response requirement was fixed but the delay to reward delivery increased, yoked to corresponding trials in PR sessions. These findings suggest that delay, and not effort, was principally responsible for the increased reward-evoked dopamine release in PR sessions. Together, these data demonstrate that NAcc dopamine release to rewards and their predictors are dissociable and differentially regulated by the delays conferred under escalating costs.
Chronic Intermittent Hypoxia Induces NMDA Receptor-Dependent Plasticity and Suppresses Nitric Oxide Signaling in the Mouse Hypothalamic Paraventricular Nucleus
Authors: Coleman Christal G. , Wang Gang , Park Laibaik , Anrather Josef , Delagrammatikas George J. , Chan June , Zhou Joan , Iadecola Costantino , Pickel Virginia M.
Published: September 2010

Chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) is a concomitant of sleep apnea that produces a slowly developing chemosensory-dependent blood pressure elevation ascribed in part to NMDA receptor-dependent plasticity and reduced nitric oxide (NO) signaling in the carotid body. The hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) is responsive to hypoxic stress and also contains neurons that express NMDA receptors and neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS). We tested the hypothesis that extended (35 d) CIH results in a decrease in the surface/synaptic availability of the essential NMDA NR1 subunit in nNOS-containing neurons and NMDA-induced NO production in the PVN of mice. As compared with controls, the 35 d CIH-exposed mice showed a significant increase in blood pressure and an increased density of NR1 immunogold particles located in the cytoplasm of nNOS-containing dendrites. Neither of these between-group differences was seen after 14 d, even though there was already a reduction in the NR1 plasmalemmal density at this time point. Patch-clamp recording of PVN neurons in slices showed a significant reduction in NMDA currents after either 14 or 35 d exposure to CIH compared with sham controls. In contrast, NO production, as measured by the NO-sensitive fluorescent dye 4-amino-5-methylamino-2′,7′-difluorofluorescein, was suppressed only in the 35 d CIH group. We conclude that CIH produces a reduction in the surface/synaptic targeting of NR1 in nNOS neurons and decreases NMDA receptor-mediated currents in the PVN before the emergence of hypertension, the development of which may be enabled by suppression of NO signaling in this brain region.
Employee and Employer Support for Workplace‐based Smoking Cessation: Results from an International Survey
Authors: Halpern Michael T. , Taylor Humphrey
Published: September 2010

Employee and Employer Support for Workplace‐based Smoking Cessation: Results from an International Survey: Michael T. Halpern,et al. Division of Health Services and Social Policy Research, RTI International, USA

Objectives

Workplace smoking cessation programs can increase smoking cessation rates, improve employee health, reduce exposure to second‐hand smoke, and decrease costs. To assist with the development of such programs, we conducted a Global Workplace Smoking Survey to collect information on workplace attitudes towards smoking cessation programs.

Methods

Data were collected from 1,403 employers (smoking and non‐smoking) and 3,525 smoking employees participating in surveys in 14 countries in Asia, Europe, and South America in 2007. Results were weighted to ensure that they were representative of smokers and employers at companies with the specified number of employees.

Results

More than two‐thirds of employers (69%) but less than half of employees (48%) indicated that their company should help employees with smoking cessation. Approximately two‐thirds of employees and 81% of employers overall felt that smoke‐free policies encourage cessation, but fewer individuals from Europe (vs. from Asia or South America) agreed with this. In companies with a smoke‐free policy, 76% of employees and 80% of employers felt that their policy had been somewhat, very, or extremely effective in motivating employees to quit or reduce smoking. Employers and employees differed substantially regarding appropriate methods for encouraging cessation, with more employees favouring financial incentives and more employers favouring education.

Conclusions

Both employees and employers value smoke‐free workplace programs and workplace cessation support activities, although many would like their companies to offer more support. These results will be useful for organizations exploring means of facilitating smoking cessation amongst employees.
Scorpion stings in Turkey: epidemiological and clinical aspects between the years 1995 and 2004
Authors: Cesaretli Yıldırım , Ozkan Ozcan
Published: September 2010

The most important health-threatening scorpions found in Turkey are; Androctonus crassicauda, Leiurus quinquestriatus, Mesobuthus gibbosus and M. eupeus species, all of which belong to the Buthidae family. The epidemiological and clinical findings of scorpion stings in Turkey were evaluated between the years 1995 and 2004 based on data recorded in the National Poison Information Center (NPIC). A total of 930 cases were recorded. The cases mostly occurred in the month of July. The gender distribution was 50.22% female and 45.48% male. It was shown that the 20-29 age group presented more scorpion stings. Most of the stings occurred in Central Anatolia and Marmara regions of Turkey. Patients at the hospital showed signs of localized (pain, hyperemia, edema and numbness) and systemic effects (hyperthermia, nausea and vomiting, tachycardia, shivering and lethargy) but no lethality was notified. According to records, 33% of the poisoned patients were treated with antivenin in healthcare facilities.
Volume do recipiente, adubação e sua forma de mistura ao substrato no crescimento inicial de Peltophorum dubium (sprengel) taubert em viveiro
Authors: Brachtvogel Elizeu Luiz , Malavasi Ubirajara Contro
Published: September 2010

O ensaio comparou três volumes de recipientes, três tipos de adubação e duas formas de mistura do fertilizante ao substrato, no crescimento inicial de plântulas de Peltophorum dubium (Sprengel) Taubert (canafístula) em viveiro, num esquema fatorial 3 x 3 x 2. Foram utilizados tubetes de 100 e 180 cm³ preenchidos com substrato comercial e sacos plásticos de 10 x 15 cm cheios com mistura de solo e vermiculita em partes iguais, fertilizados com fertilizante de liberação lenta (FLL) nas dosagens de 1,75 e 3,5 kg m-3 e com formulação NPK a 1,0 kg m-3 de substrato. As formas de misturas adotadas foram aquelas com base por metro cúbico de substrato ou individualmente para cada recipiente. Na análise destrutiva realizada 12 semanas após a emergência, avaliaram-se o número de folhas, a altura da planta, o diâmetro do coleto e as massas secas da parte aérea, o sistema radicular e o total. Os resultados indicaram que a redução no volume do recipiente causou diminuição na massa seca, diâmetro e altura. O número de folhas, a massa seca da parte aérea e a massa seca total foram semelhantes nas plântulas sob fertilização com NPK, independentemente do volume do recipiente, o que não ocorreu naquelas sob FLL, onde esse parâmetro diminuiu com o volume do recipiente. O cálculo do índice de Dickson após 12 semanas indicou valores superiores em mudas com a forma de mistura convencional em relação à individual e maior naquelas sob fertilização com NPK, em comparação com as sob FLL.
Some New Radiolarian Species and Genus from Upper Permian in Guangxi Province, South China
Authors: Wu Jun , Feng Qinglai , Gui Biwen , Liu Guichun
Published: September 2010

A well-preserved highly diverse radiolarian fauna was discovered from the Upper Permian Dalong Formation in Guangxi, South China. A new genus and 19 species are described in this paper. Zhuangodiscus n. gen. belongs to the Family Relindellidae Kozur and Möstler. The 19 species include eight new species (Albaillella bialata, Neoalbaillella camarata, Neoalbaillella cephalota, Zhuangodiscus biacanthus, Zhuangodiscus orthacanthus, Zhuangodiscus pentacanthus, Tetratormentum nandanensis, Octatormentum yaoi) and 11 undetermined species. A new radiolarian assemblage, Neoalbaillella camarata Assemblage is proposed, which is located at the upper part of Neoalbaillella optima Assemblage Zone, corresponds well with the Albaillella yaoi Zone.
Antiquity and Evolution of Prosternal Horns in Baridine Weevils (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
Authors: Davis Steven R. , Engel Michael S.
Published: September 2010

Among weevils of the subfamily Baridinae (548 extant genera and ca. 9,000 species), unique prosternal horns and associated sheaths have evolved independently multiple times. These structures are utilized in a unique form of male-male aggression in which males push, rather than overturn as in most other horned beetles, their competitor. Herein we report the first fossils of male Baridinae exhibiting such prosternal horns. Two males recovered from the middle Eocene Green River Formation in northwestern Colorado serve to provide a minimum age (at ca. 47 million years old) for both the origin of horns and its associated form of male-male combat in Baridinae.
A New and Open CoiledValvata(Gastropoda) from the Pliocene Koobi Fora Formation of the Turkana Basin, Northern Kenya
Authors: Scholz Henning , Glaubrecht Matthias
Published: September 2010

New field collections allow the study and description ofValvata juliaenew species from the Pliocene upper Burgi Member of the Koobi Fora Formation of Kenya. The shell morphology of this species varies from trochospiral to planispiral to open coiled. The species is restricted to a short stratigraphic interval.Valvata juliaeis considered as an invader of the Turkana Basin during a lacustrine transgression event. The open coiling of the species is interpreted as an ecophenotypic response to a high level of environmental stress caused by lake level fluctuations and emergence of delta systems. These environmental conditions broughtValvata juliaeto extinction soon after it invaded the Turkana Basin.
Thinking outside the channel: modeling nitrogen cycling in networked river ecosystems
Authors: Helton Ashley M , Poole Geoffrey C , Meyer Judy L , Wollheim Wilfred M , Peterson Bruce J , Mulholland Patrick J , Bernhardt Emily S , Stanford Jack A , Arango Clay , Ashkenas Linda R , Cooper Lee W , Dodds Walter K , Gregory Stanley V , Hall Robert O , Hamilton Stephen K , Johnson Sherri L , McDowell William H , Potter Jody D , Tank Jennifer L , Thomas Suzanne M , Valett H Maurice , Webster Jackson R , Zeglin Lydia
Published: September 2010

Agricultural and urban development alters nitrogen and other biogeochemical cycles in rivers worldwide. Because such biogeochemical processes cannot be measured empirically across whole river networks, simulation models are critical tools for understanding river‐network biogeochemistry. However, limitations inherent in current models restrict our ability to simulate biogeochemical dynamics among diverse river networks. We illustrate these limitations using a river‐network model to scale up in situ measures of nitrogen cycling in eight catchments spanning various geophysical and land‐use conditions. Our model results provide evidence that catchment characteristics typically excluded from models may control river‐network biogeochemistry. Based on our findings, we identify important components of a revised strategy for simulating biogeochemical dynamics in river networks, including approaches to modeling terrestrial–aquatic linkages, hydrologic exchanges between the channel, floodplain/riparian complex, and subsurface waters, and interactions between coupled biogeochemical cycles.
Investigation of Human Testis Protein Heterogeneity Using 2‐Dimensional Electrophoresis
Authors: Guo Xuejiang , Zhao Chun , Wang Fuqiang , Zhu Yefei , Cui Yugui , Zhou Zuomin , Huo Ran , Sha Jiahao
Published: September 2010

ABSTRACT: The testis is the male gonad responsible for spermatogenesis and male hormone secretion. The complicated processes of spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis determine the complexity of protein expression control in the testis. In this study, the heterogeneity of human testis proteins was investigated using 2‐dimensional gel electrophoresis. A total of 847 protein spots corresponding to 462 unique proteins were identified successfully by mass spectrometry. Notable heterogeneity was evidenced by the presence of more than 1 spot with different molecular weight and/or Isoelectric point values for each of 180 different proteins. Analysis of the detected peptides of these proteins indicated that this heterogeneity was partly the result of alternative splicing and/or proteolysis. SP_PIR_Keywords analysis suggested that alternative initiation sites and various forms of posttranslational modification may also contribute toward this heterogeneity. Using Pro‐Q Diamond phosphostain, 68 spots representing 52 proteins were stained, confirming the presence of phosphorylated forms of these proteins in the human testis. These data were used to establish a proteome reference database, which can be accessed over the Internet (http:reprod.njmu.edu.cn2d). This database provides an initial reference map of the human testis and serves as a useful resource for comparative proteomics studies of the human testis under normal and pathological states. The abundant protein heterogeneity observed in this study and further investigation of its biological significance will contribute toward understanding protein expression regulation in the human testis and will generate insight into the molecular mechanism of spermatogenesis.
Bicarbonate‐Dependent Serine/Threonine Protein Dephosphorylation in Capacitating Boar Spermatozoa
Authors: Alnagar Fahima A. , Brennan Paul , Brewis Ian A.
Published: September 2010

ABSTRACT: This study investigates the dynamics of serine/threonine (S/T) protein phosphorylation in sperm incubated under capacitating (C) conditions using the boar as a model system. For the first time, this approach has identified multiple dephosphorylation events that occur in a bicarbonate‐dependent fashion. Different phospho‐(S/T) kinase substrate antibodies were used, and dephosphorylation of 5 S/T phosphoproteins was observed in C sperm compared with noncapacitated (N) cells. Specifically, dephosphorylation of 96‐, 90‐, 64‐, and 55‐kd proteins was detected by immunoblotting using 2 phospho‐Akt substrate antibodies and a phosphoprotein kinase A substrate antibody. In addition, dephosphorylation of a 105‐kd protein was detected using a phospho‐ATM/ATR substrate antibody. In contrast, no dephosphorylation was observed using a phosphoprotein kinase C substrate antibody, and increased tyrosine phosphorylation of 32‐ and 20‐kd proteins was detected in C compared with N sperm. Immunolocalization experiments revealed subtle changes in the pattern expression as well as a reduction of phosphorylation in C sperm. Whereas sperm incubated in N medium containing dibutyryl cAMP (dbcAMP) and 3‐isobutyl‐1‐methylxanthine (IBMX) did not show protein dephosphorylation, incubation in C medium with dbcAMP/IBMX showed dephosphorylation as well as increased phosphorylation of other proteins (p68, p51, and p29). Finally, calyculin A, a phosphatase inhibitor, prevented dephosphorylation of p96, p90, p64, and p55 but not p105. Based on these data, we propose 2 pathways of protein dephosphorylation that are active during capacitation and independent of cAMP. Together, this provides direct evidence for more complex S/T phosphorylation dynamics than has been previously described for sperm undergoing capacitation.
Small Variations in Crucial Steps of TUNEL Assay Coupled to Flow Cytometry Greatly Affect Measures of Sperm DNA Fragmentation
Authors: Muratori Monica , Tamburrino Lara , Tocci Valentina , Costantino Antonietta , Marchiani Sara , Giachini Claudia , Laface Ilaria , Krausz Csilla , Meriggiola Maria Cristina , Forti Gianni , Baldi Elisabetta
Published: September 2010

ABSTRACT: Techniques for assessing sperm DNA damage are numerous and various. There are 2 main types of assay: direct and indirect. The former directly detects the amount of sperm DNA damage, whereas the latter reveals the effects of an exogenous insult on sperm chromatin. In addition, even considering the same type of technique, different strategies to reveal or quantify sperm DNA damage, or both, are used. Finally, these techniques, except for sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA), lack standardized protocols to which all users can adhere to minimize interlaboratory variations. In this study, we investigated the effects of some of the many ways the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase–mediated fluorescein–dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay is performed when measuring sperm DNA fragmentation by flow cytometry. In addition, by using an established procedure, we determined the precision of the technique by calculating intra‐assay coefficients of variation (CVs). We found that concentration of the fixative, the time of storage of fixed samples, the fluorochrome used to label DNA breaks, and the method used to analyze flow cytometric data all greatly affect the measures of sperm DNA fragmentation. In particular, we found that treatment with paraformaldehyde produced additional damage in most samples, suggesting that TUNEL also can be considered an indirect assay when performed in semen samples treated with such a fixative reagent. We also showed that 2 different methods used to analyze data yielded results that, albeit correlating, were different and associated differently to semen quality. On the contrary, the TUNEL assay, as measured here, showed low intraassay CVs, resulting in a quite precise technique when performed in established conditions.
Amelioration of Penile Fibrosis: Myth or Reality
Authors: El‐Sakka Ahmed I. , Yassin Aksam A.
Published: September 2010

ABSTRACT: Several changes have been reported to occur in the cavernosal tissue and tunica albuginea with aging. The atherosclerosis of the penis that occurs with aging causes a decrease in penile oxygen tension. A reduction in the number of smooth muscle cells (SMCs) has been demonstrated in relation to this change in oxygen tension. Changes in the ratio of penile collagen have also been observed and could explain the decrease in penile elasticity and compliance with aging. Chronic ischemia is therefore associated with fibrosis but also with nitric oxide–cGMP reduction. The sensitivity of the α‐adrenoceptors on the SMCs increases with aging. Furthermore, androgen deprivation produces penile tissue atrophy, alterations in dorsal nerve structure, alterations in endothelial morphology, reductions in trabecular SM content, increases in deposition of extracellular matrix, and increases in accumulation of adipocytes in the subtunical region of the corpus cavernosum. All of these modifications can explain the prevalence of erectile dysfunction with aging. The aim of this review is to address the underlying etiology of corporal fibrosis, especially aging, cavernosal nerve damage, androgen deprivation, and tunical fibrosis. Finally, we will address the proposed amelioration and reversal of fibrosis in terms of correcting, at least partially, the relative SMC loss that occurs with aging, diabetes, or cavernosal nerve damage and its impact on prevention of erectile dysfunction–associated cavernosal fibrosis.
Glucocorticoid Suppresses Steroidogenesis in Rat Progenitor Leydig Cells
Authors: Xiao Ye‐Chen , Huang Ya‐Dong , Hardy Dianne O. , Li Xiao‐Kun , Ge Ren‐Shan
Published: September 2010

ABSTRACT: Glucocorticoid (GC) inhibits testosterone production in adult Leydig cells by the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). However, whether GC affects the development of Leydig cells is unclear. The goal of the present study is to investigate the effects of GC on steroidogenesis of rat progenitor Leydig cells (PLCs) in vitro. Dexamethasone (DEX) inhibited androsterone (AO) production in PLCs. The GR antagonist RU38486 reversed the DEX‐induced inhibition of AO, whereas the mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist RU28318 did not. RU38486 also reversed DEX‐induced reductions in steady‐state mRNA levels of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (Star) and 3β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 (Hsd3b1). Steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) protein expression and 3β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3βHSD) enzyme activity were affected similarly. These results show that GCs inhibit steroidogenesis of PLCs by suppression of StAR and 3βHSD via a GR‐mediated mechanism.
Electrophoretically deposited nanosized hydroxyapatite coatings on 316LVM stainless steel for orthopaedic implants
Authors: Mihailovic Marija , Pataric Aleksandra , Gulisija Zvonko , Veljovic Djordje , Janackovic Djordje
Published: September 2010

Hydroxyapatite is widely used bioceramic material in implant coatings
research because of its bioactive behavior when being deposited onto the
metallic implant and compatibility to the human bones composition. The
coating of nanosized hydroxyapatite was electrophoretically deposited on
blasted surface of stainless steel 316LVM samples at constant voltage, for
different deposition times and subsequently sintered in both, vacuum and
argon atmosphere, at 1040?C and 1000?C, respectively. Although sintering
temperatures needed to achieve highly dense coatings can cause HAp coating
phase changes, the possibility to obtain a bioactive coating on 316LVM
substrate, without the coatings phase changes due to the nature of the used
stoichiometric nanostructured hydroxyapatite is presented in this work. The
thermal stability of the used HAp powder was assessed by DTA-TG analyses over
the temperature range of 23?C-1000?C, i.e. at the or nearby experimental
sintering temperature. The microstructure characterization was accomplished
using SEM, while phase composition was determined using XRD.
Impact of Physical Inactivity on Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue Metabolism in Healthy Young Male Offspring of Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Højbjerre Lise , Sonne Mette Paulli , Alibegovic Amra Ciric , Dela Flemming , Vaag Allan , Meldgaard Jens Bruun , Christensen Karl Bang , Stallknecht Bente
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE

Physical inactivity is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes and may be more detrimental in first-degree relative (FDR) subjects, unmasking underlying defects of metabolism. Using a positive family history of type 2 diabetes as a marker of increased genetic risk, the aim of this study was to investigate the impact of physical inactivity on adipose tissue (AT) metabolism in FDR subjects.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 13 FDR and 20 control (CON) subjects participated in the study. All were studied before and after 10 days of bed rest using the glucose clamp technique combined with measurements of glucose uptake, lipolysis, and lactate release from subcutaneous abdominal (SCAAT) and femoral (SCFAT) adipose tissue by the microdialysis technique. Additionally, mRNA expression of lipases was determined in biopsies from SCAAT.

RESULTS

Before bed rest, the FDR subjects revealed significantly increased glucose uptake in SCAAT. Furthermore, mRNA expression of lipases was significantly decreased in the SCAAT of FDR subjects. Bed rest significantly decreased lipolysis and tended to increase glucose uptake in the SCFAT of both CON and FDR subjects. In response to bed rest, SCAAT glucose uptake significantly increased in CON subjects but not in FDR subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

FDR subjects exhibit an abnormal AT metabolism including increased glucose uptake prior to bed rest. However, the differences between FDR and CON subjects in AT metabolism were attenuated during bed rest due to relatively more adverse changes in CON subjects compared with FDR subjects. Physical inactivity per se is not more deleterious in FDR subjects as compared with CON subjects with respect to derangements in AT metabolism.