bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transfer RNA gene arrangement and codon usage in vertebrate mitochondrial genomes: a new insight into gene order conservation
Authors: Satoh Takashi P , Sato Yukuto , Masuyama Naoharu , Miya Masaki , Nishida Mutsumi
Published: August 2010

Background

Mitochondrial (mt) gene arrangement has been highly conserved among vertebrates from jawless fishes to mammals for more than 500 million years. It remains unclear, however, whether such long-term persistence is a consequence of some constraints on the gene order.

Results

Based on the analysis of codon usage and tRNA gene positions, we suggest that tRNA gene order of the typical vertebrate mt-genomes may be important for their translational efficiency. The vertebrate mt-genome encodes 2 rRNA, 22 tRNA, and 13 transmembrane proteins consisting mainly of hydrophobic domains. We found that the tRNA genes specifying the hydrophobic residues were positioned close to the control region (CR), where the transcription efficiency is estimated to be relatively high. Using 47 vertebrate mt-genome sequences representing jawless fishes to mammals, we further found a correlation between codon usage and tRNA gene positions, implying that highly-used tRNA genes are located close to the CR. In addition, an analysis considering the asymmetric nature of mtDNA replication suggested that the tRNA loci that remain in single-strand for a longer time tend to have more guanine and thymine not suffering deamination mutations in their anticodon sites.

Conclusions

Our analyses imply the existence of translational constraint acting on the vertebrate mt-gene arrangement. Such translational constraint, together with the deamination-related constraint, may have contributed to long-term maintenance of gene order.
Transcriptional profiling of root-knot nematode induced feeding sites in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) using a soybean genome array
Authors: Das Sayan , Ehlers Jeffrey D , Close Timothy J , Roberts Philip A
Published: August 2010

Background

The locusRkconfers resistance against several species of root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp., RKN) in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata). Based on histological and reactive oxygen species (ROS) profiles,Rkconfers a delayed but strong resistance mechanism without a hypersensitive reaction-mediated cell death process, which allows nematode development but blocks reproduction.

Results

Responses toM. incognitainfection in roots of resistant genotype CB46 and a susceptible near-isogenic line (null-Rk) were investigated using a soybean Affymetrix GeneChip expression array at 3 and 9 days post-inoculation (dpi). At 9 dpi 552 genes were differentially expressed in incompatible interactions (infected resistant tissue compared with non-infected resistant tissue) and 1,060 genes were differentially expressed in compatible interactions (infected susceptible tissue compared with non-infected susceptible tissue). At 3 dpi the differentially expressed genes were 746 for the incompatible and 623 for the compatible interactions. When expression between infected resistant and susceptible genotypes was compared, 638 and 197 genes were differentially expressed at 9 and 3 dpi, respectively.

Conclusions

In comparing the differentially expressed genes in response to nematode infection, a greater number and proportion of genes were down-regulated in the resistant than in the susceptible genotype, whereas more genes were up-regulated in the susceptible than in the resistant genotype. Gene ontology based functional categorization revealed that the typical defense response was partially suppressed in resistant roots, even at 9 dpi, allowing nematode juvenile development. Differences in ROS concentrations, induction of toxins and other defense related genes seem to play a role in this unique resistance mechanism.
DNA methylation status of nuclear-encoded mitochondrial genes underlies the tissue-dependent mitochondrial functions
Authors: Takasugi Masaki , Yagi Shintaro , Hirabayashi Keiji , Shiota Kunio
Published: August 2010

Background

Mitochondria are semi-autonomous, semi-self-replicating organelles harboring their own DNA (mitochondrial DNA, mtDNA), and their dysregulation is involved in the development of various diseases. While mtDNA does not generally undergo epigenetic modifications, almost all mitochondrial proteins are encoded by nuclear DNA. However, the epigenetic regulation of nuclear-encoded mitochondrial genes (nuclear mt genes) has not been comprehensively analyzed.

Results

We analyzed the DNA methylation status of 899 nuclear mt genes in the liver, brain, and heart tissues of mouse, and identified 636 nuclear mt genes carrying tissue-dependent and differentially methylated regions (T-DMRs). These nuclar mt genes are involved in various mitochondrial functions and they also include genes related to human diseases. T-DMRs regulate the expression of nuclear mt genes. Nuclear mt genes with tissue-specific hypomethylated T-DMRs were characterized by enrichment of the target genes of specific transcription factors such as FOXA2 in the liver, and CEBPA and STAT1 in the brain.

Conclusions

A substantial proportion of nuclear mt genes contained T-DMRs, and the DNA methylation status of numerous T-DMRs should underlie tissue-dependent mitochondrial functions.
Growth status and menarcheal age among adolescent school girls in Wannune, Benue State, Nigeria
Authors: Goon Daniel T , Toriola Abel L , Uever Jonathan , Wuam Sarah , Toriola Olutoyin M
Published: August 2010

Background

Menarcheal age is a sensitive indicator of environmental conditions during childhood. The aim of study is to determine the age at menarche and growth status in adolescents in a rural area of Tarka, Wannune, Nigeria.

Methods

Data on 722 female students (aged 12-18 years) were collected in February 2009. Height and weight were measured. Body mass index (BMI; kg m-2) was used as an index of relative weight.

Results

Mean and median menarcheal age calculated by probit analysis were 13.02 (SD 3.0) (95% CI: 13.02-13.07), and age 13.00 (SD 2.8) (95% CI: 12.98-13.04), respectively. Girls who reach menarche are significantly heavier and taller with higher BMIs than those of their pre-menarcheal peers.

Conclusion

The age of menarche is probably still declining in Nigeria. Although BMI is an important factor in the onset of menstruation, some other unmeasured environmental variables may be implicated in this population.
The opportunities for and obstacles against prevention: the example of Germany in the areas of tobacco and alcohol
Authors: Walter Ulla , Suhrcke Marc , Gerlich Miriam G , Boluarte Till A
Published: August 2010

Background

Recent years have seen a growing research and policy interest in prevention in many developed countries. However, the actual efforts and resources devoted to prevention appear to have lagged well behind the lip service paid to the topic.

Discussion

We review the evidence on the considerable existing scope for health gains from prevention as well as for greater prevention policy efforts in Germany. We also discuss the barriers to "more and better" prevention and provide modest suggestions about how some of the obstacles could be overcome.

In Germany, there are substantial health gains to be reaped from the implementation of evidence-based, cost-effective preventive interventions and policies. Barriers to more prevention include social, historical, political, legal and economic factors. While there is sufficient evidence to scale up prevention efforts in some public health domains in Germany, in general there is a comparative shortage of research on non-clinical preventive interventions. Some of the existing barriers in Germany are at least in principle amenable to change, provided sufficient political will exists. More research on prevention by itself is no panacea, but could help facilitate more policy action. In particular, there is an economic efficiency-based case for public funding and promotion of research on non-clinical preventive interventions, in Germany and beyond, to confront the peculiar challenges that set this research apart from its clinical counterpart.
Chaperone expression profiles correlate with distinct physiological states of Plasmodium falciparum in malaria patients
Authors: Pallavi Rani , Acharya Pragyan , Chandran Syama , Daily Johanna P , Tatu Utpal
Published: August 2010

Background

Molecular chaperones have been shown to be important in the growth of the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum and inhibition of chaperone function by pharmacological agents has been shown to abrogate parasite growth. A recent study has demonstrated that clinical isolates of the parasite have distinct physiological states, one of which resembles environmental stress response showing up-regulation of specific molecular chaperones.

Methods

Chaperone networks operational in the distinct physiological clusters in clinical malaria parasites were constructed using cytoscape by utilizing their clinical expression profiles.

Results

Molecular chaperones show distinct profiles in the previously defined physiologically distinct states. Further, expression profiles of the chaperones from different cellular compartments correlate with specific patient clusters. While cluster 1 parasites, representing a starvation response, show up-regulation of organellar chaperones, cluster 2 parasites, which resemble active growth based on glycolysis, show up-regulation of cytoplasmic chaperones. Interestingly, cytoplasmic Hsp90 and its co-chaperones, previously implicated as drug targets in malaria, cluster in the same group. Detailed analysis of chaperone expression in the patient cluster 2 reveals up-regulation of the entire Hsp90-dependent pro-survival circuitries. In addition, cluster 2 also shows up-regulation of Plasmodium export element (PEXEL)-containing Hsp40s thought to have regulatory and host remodeling roles in the infected erythrocyte.

Conclusion

In all, this study demonstrates an intimate involvement of parasite-encoded chaperones, PfHsp90 in particular, in defining pathogenesis of malaria.
RNAi phenotype profiling of kinases identifies potential therapeutic targets in Ewing's sarcoma
Authors: Arora Shilpi , Gonzales Irma M , Hagelstrom R Tanner , Beaudry Christian , Choudhary Ashish , Sima Chao , Tibes Raoul , Mousses Spyro , Azorsa David O
Published: August 2010

Background

Ewing's sarcomas are aggressive musculoskeletal tumors occurring most frequently in the long and flat bones as a solitary lesion mostly during the teen-age years of life. With current treatments, significant number of patients relapse and survival is poor for those with metastatic disease. As part of novel target discovery in Ewing's sarcoma, we applied RNAi mediated phenotypic profiling to identify kinase targets involved in growth and survival of Ewing's sarcoma cells.

Results

Four Ewing's sarcoma cell lines TC-32, TC-71, SK-ES-1 and RD-ES were tested in high throughput-RNAi screens using a siRNA library targeting 572 kinases. Knockdown of 25 siRNAs reduced the growth of all four Ewing's sarcoma cell lines in replicate screens. Of these, 16 siRNA were specific and reduced proliferation of Ewing's sarcoma cells as compared to normal fibroblasts. Secondary validation and preliminary mechanistic studies highlighted the kinases STK10 and TNK2 as having important roles in growth and survival of Ewing's sarcoma cells. Furthermore, knockdown of STK10 and TNK2 by siRNA showed increased apoptosis.

Conclusion

In summary, RNAi-based phenotypic profiling proved to be a powerful gene target discovery strategy, leading to successful identification and validation of STK10 and TNK2 as two novel potential therapeutic targets for Ewing's sarcoma.
Axon fasciculation in the developing olfactory nerve
Authors: Miller Alexandra M , Maurer Lydia R , Zou Dong-Jing , Firestein Stuart , Greer Charles A
Published: August 2010

Olfactory sensory neuron (OSN) axons exit the olfactory epithelium (OE) and extend toward the olfactory bulb (OB) where they coalesce into glomeruli. Each OSN expresses only 1 of approximately 1,200 odor receptors (ORs). OSNs expressing the same OR are distributed in restricted zones of the OE. However, within a zone, the OSNs expressing a specific OR are not contiguous - distribution appears stochastic. Upon reaching the OB the OSN axons expressing the same OR reproducibly coalesce into two to three glomeruli. While ORs appear necessary for appropriate convergence of axons, a variety of adhesion associated molecules and activity-dependent mechanisms are also implicated. Recent data suggest pre-target OSN axon sorting may influence glomerular convergence. Here, using regional and OR-specific markers, we addressed the spatio-temporal properties associated with the onset of homotypic fasciculation in embryonic mice and assessed the degree to which subpopulations of axons remain segregated as they extend toward the nascent OB. We show that immediately upon crossing the basal lamina, axons uniformly turn sharply, usually at an approximately 90° angle toward the OB. Molecularly defined subpopulations of axons show evidence of spatial segregation within the nascent nerve by embryonic day 12, within 48 hours of the first OSN axons crossing the basal lamina, but at least 72 hours before synapse formation in the developing OB. Homotypic fasciculation of OSN axons expressing the same OR appears to be a hierarchical process. While regional segregation occurs in the mesenchyme, the final convergence of OR-specific subpopulations does not occur until the axons reach the inner nerve layer of the OB.
Calcified amorphous tumor of the heart in an adult female: a case report
Authors: Gupta Ruchika , Hote Milind , Ray Ruma
Published: August 2010

Introduction

Cardiac calcified amorphous tumor is a rare, non-neoplastic intra-cavity cardiac mass composed of calcium deposits in a background of amorphous degenerating fibrinous material. Only a few cases of this rare lesion have been reported in the available literature. Clinico-pathological differentiation of this lesion from calcified atrial myxoma, calcified thrombi or other cardiac neoplasms is extremely difficult; hence pathologic examination is the mainstay of diagnosis. To the best of our knowledge this entity has not been reported in the Indian literature.

Case presentation

A 40-year-old woman of Indian origin presented with progressive dyspnea, fatigue and cough. She was diagnosed as having a calcified right atrial mass. The mass was excised. Histologic examination revealed the mass to be composed of amorphous eosinophilic fibrin with dense calcification. No myxomatous tissue was seen and a final diagnosis of calcified amorphous tumor of the heart was rendered.

Conclusions

Calcified amorphous tumor is a rare cardiac lesion with an excellent outcome following complete surgical removal. Since clinico-radiologic differentiation from other cardiac masses is not possible in most cases, histopathological examination is the only modality for diagnosis. Hence, histopathologists should be aware of this rare entity in the differential diagnoses of cardiac mass.
Fructose-1,6-Bisphosphatase Regulates Glucose-Stimulated Insulin Secretion of Mouse Pancreatic β-Cells
Authors: Zhang Ye , Xie Zhifang , Zhou Guangdi , Zhang Hai , Lu Jian , Zhang Weiping J.
Published: August 2010

Pancreatic β-cells can precisely sense glucose stimulation and accordingly adjust their insulin secretion. Fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase (FBPase) is a gluconeogenic enzyme, but its physiological significance in β-cells is not established. Here we determined its physiological role in regulating glucose sensing and insulin secretion of β-cells. Considerable FBPase mRNA was detected in normal mouse islets and β-cell lines, although their protein levels appeared to be quite low. Down-regulation of FBP1 in MIN6 cells by small interfering RNA could enhance the glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS), whereas FBP1-overexpressing MIN6 cells exhibited decreased GSIS. Inhibition of FBPase activity in islet β-cells by its specific inhibitor MB05032 led to significant increase of their glucose utilization and cellular ATP to ADP ratios and consequently enhanced GSIS in vitro. Pretreatment of mice with the MB05032 prodrug MB06322 could potentiate GSIS in vivo and improve their glucose tolerance. Therefore, FBPase plays an important role in regulating glucose sensing and insulin secretion of β-cells and serves a promising target for diabetes treatment.
The Immune Signaling Molecule 4-1BB Stimulation Reduces Adiposity, Insulin Resistance, and Hepatosteatosis in Obese Mice
Authors: Kim Chu-Sook , Tu Thai Hien , Kawada Teruo , Kim Byung-Sam , Yu Rina
Published: August 2010

Immune cells (e.g. macrophages and T cells) in adipose tissue play a crucial role in the development of obesity-induced inflammation and metabolic disorders. Here we report findings suggesting that the immune signaling molecule 4-1BB/CD137 is a novel target for treatment of obesity and metabolic disorders. 4-1BB stimulation with agonistic antibody reduced body weight and adiposity and markedly improved glucose intolerance and hepatosteatosis in diet-induced obese mice and genetically obese/diabetic mice. Increases in lymphoid T cell expansion/activation and adipose/hepatic CD8+ T cell recruitment were evident in the anti-4-1BB antibody-treated obese mice. Glycolysis, β-oxidation, and oxygen consumption rates also increased in the treated mice. These findings suggest that 4-1BB-stimulation accompanied by CD8+ T cell expansion/activation enhances glucose/lipid metabolism, leading to increased energy expenditure. Manipulation of 4-1BB may provide a unique immunological strategy against obesity and metabolic disorders.
Magmas, a Gene Newly Identified as Overexpressed in Human and Mouse ACTH-Secreting Pituitary Adenomas, Protects Pituitary Cells from Apoptotic Stimuli
Authors: Tagliati Federico , Gentilin Erica , Buratto Mattia , Molè Daniela , degli Uberti Ettore Ciro , Zatelli Maria Chiara
Published: August 2010

Pituitary tumors are mostly benign, being locally invasive in 5–35% of cases. Deregulation of several genes has been suggested as a possible alteration underlying the development and progression of pituitary tumors. We here report the identification of a cDNA, corresponding to Magmas gene (mitochondria-associated protein involved in granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor signal transduction), which is highly expressed in two different ACTH-secreting mouse pituitary adenoma cell lines as compared with normal pituitary as well as in two thirds of 64 examined pituitary adenomas as compared with human normal pituitary. Tim 16, the mitochondrial protein encoded by Magmas, was indeed expressed in a mouse ACTH-secreting pituitary adenoma cell line, AtT-20 D16v-F2 cells, in a subcellular compartment likely corresponding to mitochondria. Magmas silencing determined a reduced rate of DNA synthesis, an accumulation in G1 phase, and a concomitant decrease in S phase in At-T20 D16v-F2 cells. Moreover, Magmas-silenced cells displayed basal caspase 3/7 activity and DNA fragmentation levels similar to control cells, which both increased under proapoptotic stimuli. Our data demonstrate that Magmas is overexpressed in mouse and human ACTH-secreting pituitary adenomas. Moreover, our results show that Magmas protects pituitary cells from apoptosis, suggesting its possible involvement in neoplastic transformation.
The T3 Receptor β1 Isoform Regulates UCP1 and D2 Deiodinase in Rat Brown Adipocytes
Authors: Martinez de Mena Raquel , Scanlan Thomas S. , Obregon Maria-Jesus
Published: August 2010

Brown adipose tissue (BAT) thermogenesis increases when uncoupling protein-1 (UCP1) is activated adrenergically and requires T3. In humans, UCP1 activation in BAT seems involved in body weight maintenance. BAT type 2 deiodinase (D2) increases in response to adrenergic agents, producing the T3 required for UCP1 expression. T3 actions are mediated by thyroid hormone nuclear T3 receptors (TR), TRα and TRβ. Studies in mice suggest that TRβ is required for UCP1 induction, whereas TRα regulates body temperature and adrenergic sensitivity. In the present study, we compare the effects of T3vs. specific TRβ1 and TRα1 agonists [GC-1 and CO23] on the adrenergic induction of UCP1 and D2 in cultured rat brown adipocytes. T3 and GC-1 produced similar increases on UCP1, whereas CO23 increased UCP1 only at high doses (50 nm). GC-1 at low doses (0.2–10 nm) was less potent than T3, increasing the adrenergic stimulation of D2 activity and mRNA. At higher doses, GC-1 further stimulated whereas T3 inhibited D2 activity but not D2 mRNA, suggesting posttranscriptional effects. CO23 had no effect on D2 activity but increased D2 mRNA. T3, GC-1, or CO23 by themselves did not increase UCP1 or D2 mRNA. High T3 doses shortened D2 half-life and increased D2 turnover via proteasome, whereas GC-1 did not change D2 stability. The α1- and α2-adrenergic D2 responses increased using high T3 doses. In summary, T3 increases the adrenergic stimulation of UCP1 and D2 expression mostly via the TRβ1 isoform, and in brown adipocytes, D2 is protected from degradation by the action of T3 on TRβ1.
Weight Regain after a Diet-Induced Loss Is Predicted by Higher Baseline Leptin and Lower Ghrelin Plasma Levels
Authors: Crujeiras Ana B. , Goyenechea Estíbaliz , Abete Itziar , Lage Mary , Carreira Marcos C. , Martínez J. Alfredo , Casanueva Felipe F.
Published: August 2010

Context: Appetite-related hormones may play an important role in weight regain after obesity therapy.

Objective: Our objective was to investigate the potential involvement of ghrelin, leptin, and insulin plasma levels in weight regain after a therapeutic hypocaloric diet.

Design: A group of obese/overweight volunteers (49 women and 55 men; 35 ± 7 yr; 30.7 ± 2.4 kg/m2) followed an 8-wk hypocaloric diet (−30% energy expenditure) and were evaluated again 32 wk after treatment. Body weight as well as plasma fasting ghrelin, leptin, and insulin concentrations were measured at three points (wk 0, 8, and 32).

Results: After the 8-wk hypocaloric diet, the average weight loss was −5.0 ± 2.2% (P < 0.001). Plasma leptin and insulin concentrations decreased significantly, whereas ghrelin levels did not markedly change. In the group regaining more than 10% of the weight loss, leptin levels were higher (P < 0.01), whereas ghrelin levels were lower (P < 0.05). No differences were observed in insulin levels. Weight regain at wk 32 was negatively correlated with ghrelin and positively associated with leptin levels at baseline (wk 0) and endpoint (wk 8). These outcomes showed a gender-specific influence, being statistically significant among men for ghrelin and between women for leptin. Moreover, a decrease in ghrelin after an 8-wk hypocaloric diet was related to an increased risk for weight regain (odds ratio = 3.109; P = 0.008) whereas a greater reduction in leptin (odds ratio = 0.141; P = 0.001) was related to weight-loss maintenance.

Conclusions: Subjects with higher plasma leptin and lower ghrelin levels at baseline could be more prone to regain lost weight, and hormones levels could be proposed as biomarkers for predicting obesity-treatment outcomes.
Subribosomal particle analysis reveals the stages of bacterial ribosome assembly at which rRNA nucleotides are modified
Authors: Siibak Triinu , Remme Jaanus
Published: August 2010

Modified nucleosides of ribosomal RNA are synthesized during ribosome assembly. In bacteria, each modification is made by a specialized enzyme. In vitro studies have shown that some enzymes need the presence of ribosomal proteins while other enzymes can modify only protein-free rRNA. We have analyzed the addition of modified nucleosides to rRNA during ribosome assembly. Accumulation of incompletely assembled ribosomal particles (25S, 35S, and 45S) was induced by chloramphenicol or erythromycin in an exponentially growing Escherichia coli culture. Incompletely assembled ribosomal particles were isolated from drug-treated and free 30S and 50S subunits and mature 70S ribosomes from untreated cells. Nucleosides of 16S and 23S rRNA were prepared and analyzed by reverse-phase, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Pseudouridines were identified by the chemical modification/primer extension method. Based on the results, the rRNA modifications were divided into three major groups: early, intermediate, and late assembly specific modifications. Seven out of 11 modified nucleosides of 16S rRNA were late assembly specific. In contrast, 16 out of 25 modified nucleosides of 23S rRNA were made during early steps of ribosome assembly. Free subunits of exponentially growing bacteria contain undermodified rRNA, indicating that a specific set of modifications is synthesized during very late steps of ribosome subunit assembly.
A longitudinal examination of early communicative development: Evidence from a parent‐report questionnaire
Authors: Longobardi Emiddia , Rossi‐Arnaud Clelia , Spataro Pietro
Published: August 2010

The present research employed a longitudinal design to assess the verbal and non‐verbal communicative abilities of a sample of 104 children, using two different parent‐report instruments: the Questionnaire for Communication and Early Language (QCEL) development at 12, 16, and 20 months, and the Italian adaptation of the MacArthur–Bates Communicative Development Inventories: Words and Gestures at 23 months. The results supported and extended previous data about the validity of the QCEL, by showing that: (1) both verbal and non‐verbal variables predicted the level of language development at 23 months; (2) children classified as at‐risk with the QCEL had reduced vocabulary size and a lower number of sentences at 23 months; (3) early individual differences in the use of words and gestures were associated with later differences in linguistic abilities. It is concluded that the longitudinal use of the QCEL questionnaire can provide useful information about language development.
Dealing with the threats inherent in unproctored Internet testing of cognitive ability: Results from a large‐scale operational test program
Authors: Lievens Filip , Burke Eugene
Published: August 2010

There is little information available about operational systems of unproctored Internet testing (UIT) of cognitive ability and how they deal with the threats inherent in UIT. This descriptive study provides a much‐needed empirical examination of a large‐scale operational UIT system of cognitive ability that implemented test design and verification testing for increasing test security and honest responding. Test security evaluations showed item exposure and test overlap rates were acceptable. Aberrant score evaluations revealed that negative score change (higher unproctored scores than proctored ones) was negligible. Implications for UIT research are discussed.
Germaine Tailleferre and Hlne Perdriat's Le Marchand d'oiseaux (1923): French feminist ballet?
Authors: Hamer Laura
Published: August 2010

In 1923 Germaine Tailleferre, the only female member of the group of French composers known as Les Six, completed Le Marchand d'oiseaux for the Ballet Sudois, with a scenario, costumes and set designs by the woman artist and poetess Hlne Perdriat. Interestingly, a number
of the contemporary critics interpreted the work (mainly the product of two women) as a feminist manifestation. This article examines the justification for labelling Le Marchand d'oiseaux a feminist work, and posits the theory that it may be more apt, especially within the context of
the development of inter-war musical modernism, to understand it as a neoclassical ballet.
The rediscovery of Comedy of the Dumb Wife (1953) by Polish composer Tadeusz Kassern
Authors: Kostka Violetta
Published: August 2010

One of the basic aims of The Vocal and Acting Faculty of the Academy of Music in Gdask is to prepare students to perform in opera. During the academic year 20052006, the Faculty undertook work on an unusual enterprise, the previously unperformed opera by Kassern (19041957), Comedy
of the Dumb Wife, written in 1953. The proposal that this opera be performed was made by the author of this article, who was engaged in research on this neglected Polish emigrant composer. The performance took place on 19 May 2006, and was recorded. The director chose to present the action
in the silent movie convention of the 1930s, with plain scenery and characteristic black-and-white costumes, with the pianist playing at the side of the stage. Although the main purpose of the production was didactic, it went much beyond this original aim, helping to erase one of the blank
spots in the history of Polish music. This article looks more closely at this forgotten work and analyses salient features of the composer's craft.
This scream I've thrown out is a dream: corporeal transformation through sound, an Artaudian experiment
Authors: Lucaciu Mihai
Published: August 2010

Antonin Artaud's last radio recording from 1948 is one of his final projects of corporeal transformation: where the visual body is completely absent in radio broadcasting, Artaud's body without organs puts together words, music, screams, glossolalia and laughter as visual attacks where
sound is recognized as the real mark of the body. Even if the recordings were not broadcast by the radio station, they are a rare experiment to actively end the process of representation through sound. The scream becomes the means to transmit the body without organs by destroying meaning and
representation.
Musicking as mise-en-scne
Authors: Roesner David
Published: August 2010

Using a production of Euripides'PhoenissaeI supervised and directed at the Universitt Hildesheim in 2004 as a main example, this article seeks to explore in which ways making music (or better, in Christopher Small's term, musicking) can become a central dramaturgical, narrative and performative driver of the mise-en-scne. In the given case it resulted in a hybrid of performative genres and contained elements of a concert, an installation, a story-telling event, straight theatre and chorus recitation. Through this hybridization the production questioned the nature of the following relationships: (1) Music/stage: the production stretched the notion of music on stage to music with the stage. The stage was equally a performative space, a sound box and sonic space. (2) Performer/character: the production questioned the role of the performers who continually oscillated between being actors, narrators, chorus and musicians. Musicking became performative action and vice versa. (3) Performance/narrative: musicking, spatial design, visual imagery and the audience's interpretative reception intertwined to introduce forms of theatrical narrative that I will argue to be emergent.
One Laptop per Child: Polishing Up the Xo Laptop User Experience
Authors: Yeh Kuo-Chuan (Martin) , Gregory Jonah P. , Ritter Frank E.
Published: August 2010

FEATURE AT A GLANCE: We examine the user experience of the XO laptop (the “$100 laptop”). The XO laptop combines many technology innovations and is used in the United States and abroad. We asked users to perform a range of simple tasks to demonstrate that several aspects of the XO laptop and similar devices can be improved, including hardware and software. Our recommendations are not difficult modifications. What we found suggests that usability problems may pose a greater risk to the success of this device than perhaps was imagined by its designers. We hope to see the XO laptop's usability become more polished and that usability, in general, will be considered appropriately as a potential risk for similar products.
Automated External Defibrillators: How HF/E Helps Win the Race against Time
Authors: Strawhun Tony , Murray Susan
Published: August 2010

FEATURE AT A GLANCE: In emergency situations, time is critical. Because it takes time for an ambulance to arrive, many not-for-profits such as the American Red Cross and American Heart Association, along with many local emergency medical service unions, encourage the public to learn how to perform cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and use an automated external defibrillator (AED). Although AED technology can be life saving, there are several trade-offs in design features and innovations, which can be critical when designing or selecting the appropriate AED for a specific setting. This article focuses on the human factors engineering used by designers and manufacturers during the design and development of several modern AEDs, including a discussion of the trade-offs involved.
Perspectives: HF/E Professionals: Help Make Biking to School Safer
Authors: Ayres Thomas J.
Published: August 2010

When HF/E practitioners, researchers, and parents collaborate to make a safer cycling environment, children as well as the environment benefit.
Solder Joint Reliability of SnBi Finished TSOPs with Alloy 42 Lead-Frame under Temperature Cycling
Authors: Wang Weiqiang , Osterman Michael , Das Diganta , Pecht Michael
Published: August 2010

Tin-bismuth (SnBi) is a lead-free alternative to pure tin (Sn) lead-frame finish. SnBi finish is considered by some to be a tin-whisker mitigation strategy. In selecting a SnBi finish, the interfacial strength and reliability of solder interconnects formed with select assembly solders must be considered. To characterize the solder interconnect reliability of SnBi finished parts, sets of test assemblies were created with Sn and SnBi finished thin-small-outline-package (TSOP) parts using SAC305 and SnPb solder. Test assemblies were subjected to temperature cycling and interconnect strength tests. It was found that SnBi finish caused TSOP solder joints to have a shorter fatigue life than Sn finish under temperature cycling testing.
Prevalence of microalbuminuria and its clinical correlation with other risk factors of cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Szántó Marianna Vera , Ilyés István , Rurik Imre
Published: August 2010

Az albuminuria mértéke az endotheldiszfunkció és így a cardiovascularis kockázat becslésére is alkalmas érzékeny paraméter. Több, nagy esetszámú epidemiológiai vizsgálat igazolta, hogy a vizelettel ürített fehérje mennyisége magasabb diabetes és hypertonia fennállása esetén. Az albuminuria vizsgálata még nem eléggé elterjedt a magyar háziorvosi gyakorlatban. A szerzők előzetes vizsgálatukkal megerősítették a microalbuminuria gyakoribb előfordulását kóros lipidértékekkel rendelkező hypertoniás és nagyobb haskörfogatú betegeiknél, amely főleg nőknél volt látványosabb. Az alkalmazott és bemutatott egyszerű szűrővizsgálat beépíthető a háziorvosok cardiovascularis gondozási protokolljába.
Role of fatty liver in metabolic syndrome
Authors: Fodor Miklós
Published: August 2010

Humán epidemiológiai vizsgálatok, az állatkísérleti modellek azt mutatják, hogy összefüggés van a zsigeri elhízás, a cardiovascularis rizikófaktorok, a dyslipidaemia, inzulinrezisztencia és a 2-es típusú diabetes mellitus között. Az utóbbi időben a figyelem arra irányult, hogy a trigliceridek (TG) túlzott felhalmozódása a májban része a metabolikus szindrómának. Több bizonyíték azt mutatja, hogy a TG felhalmozódása a májban oki tényezőként részt vesz a máj-inzulinrezisztencia kialakulásában normális testsúlyú és mérsékelten túlsúlyos egyéneken.
Symptoms of hepatocellular carcinoma. Laboratory tests used for its diagnosis and screening
Authors: Gervain Judit
Published: August 2010

A hepatocellularis carcinoma korai stádiumában tünetszegény betegség. A daganatszövet növekedése és az erekbe történő betörése okoz általános és lokális tüneteket. Hasi diszkomfort, cachexia, az addig kompenzált cirrhosis terápiarezisztens dekompenzációja, súlyos esetben a vena portae vagy a hepaticus vénák thrombosisa jelzi a betegség progresszióját. A laboratóriumi leletek közül a vérkép a májfunkció, a haemostasis, a szénhidrát- és a kalciumanyagcsere eredmények gyors romlása jellemző. Az etiológia tisztázásához és a magas rizikójú betegek kiszűréséhez az alkohol, a gyógyszer- és a vegyszerártalom, a B-, C-, delta vírushepatitisek, az anyagcsere-betegségek és a nem alkoholos steatohepatitis vizsgálatai vezetnek. Májgóc esetén diagnosztikus értékű a perzisztálóan magas alfa-foetoprotein, 200 ng/ml felett >90% a pozitív prediktív értéke. A mindennapi gyakorlatban ritkábban mért biomarkerek a glikozilált alfa-foetoprotein-L3 és a K-vitamin-hiány indukálta des-gamma-karboxi-protrombin. HBeAg-pozitív krónikus B-hepatitises betegekben többszörös a tumormegjelenés valószínűsége, ha C genotípusú, a precore régiójában az 1762 és az 1764 helyen kettős mutációt tartalmazó B vírussal fertőzöttek. A magas rizikójú betegeknél 6 havonta, tisztázatlan dignitású, 1 cm alatti májgóc esetén 18–24 hónapon keresztül 3-4 havonta hasi ultrahangvizsgálat és alfa-foetoprotein-mérés javasolt.
Soberania e modernização no Brasil: pensamento de política externa no segundo reinado e na primeira república
Authors: Feldman Luiz
Published: August 2010

O propósito deste artigo é apresentar o pensamento de política externa brasileira no Segundo Reinado e na Primeira República. Argumenta-se que o posicionamento do Brasil em relações bilaterais com grandes potências entre 1845 e 1866 e na participação em conferências multilaterais entre 1906 e 1907 é enunciado pelas antíteses particular/universal e civilização/barbá-rie. Por meio da primeira, os gestores da diplomacia inscrevem o país no raio de um padrão de relacionamento intraeuropeu, mantendo um debate a respeito dos limites que as normas internacionais podem impor à prática soberana. Por meio da segunda antítese, os gestores da diplomacia repudiam a inclusão do Brasil no conjunto de países sujeitos a um padrão de relacionamento extraeuropeu. Afirmam, em seu lugar, um imperativo de modernização da sociedade pelo Estado, como forma de evitar os desrespeitos à soberania territorial brasileira e de legitimar a inserção do país no padrão intraeuropeu.
Biological monitoring of lotic ecosystems: the role of diatoms
Authors: Bere T. , Tundisi JG.
Published: August 2010

Increasing anthropogenic influence on lotic environments as a result of civilisation has captured public interest because of the consequent problems associated with deterioration of water quality. Various biological monitoring methods that provide a direct measure of ecological integrity by using the response of biota to environmental changes have been developed to monitor the ecological status of lotic environments. Diatoms have been used extensively in this regard and this review attempts to summarise the basic concepts associated with biological monitoring using benthic diatoms. Where possible, examples from work carried out in Brazil are used.
Catch-per-unit-effort: which estimator is best?
Authors: Petrere Jr. M. , Giacomini HC. , De Marco Jr. P.
Published: August 2010

In this paper we examine the accuracy and precision of three indices of catch-per-unit-effort (CPUE). We carried out simulations, generating catch data according to six probability distributions (normal, Poisson, lognormal, gamma, delta and negative binomial), three variance structures (constant, proportional to effort and proportional to the squared effort) and their magnitudes (tail weight). The Jackknife approach of the index is recommended, whenever catch is proportional to effort or even under small deviations from proportionality assumption, when a ratio estimator is to be applied and little is known about the underlying behaviour of variables, as is the case for most fishery studies.
Mucosal Coronally Positioned Flap for the Management of Excessive Gingival Display in the Presence of Hypermobility of the Upper Lip and Vertical Maxillary Excess: A Case Report
Authors: Humayun Nomahn , Kolhatkar Shilpa , Souiyas Jason , Bhola Monish
Published: August 2010

Background: Excessive gingival display is a frequent finding that can occur because of various intraoral or extraoral etiologies. This report describes the use of a mucosal coronally positioned flap for the management of a gummy smile associated with vertical maxillary excess and hypermobility of the upper lip.

Methods: A 24‐year‐old female presented for consultation regarding a gummy smile. At full smile the average gingival display ranged from 2 to 4 mm. A clinical examination revealed hypermobility of the upper lip and absence of generalized altered passive eruption. A cephalometric analysis pointed to the presence of vertical maxillary excess. The surgical procedure consisted of an elliptical mucosal excision followed by coronal advancement of the flap. This procedure aimed to limit the activity of the elevator muscles and reestablish the depth of the vestibule.

Results: Rapid surgical healing with minimal postoperative sequelae was observed. The patient reported significant reduction of gingival display at 1 week, which was maintained at the 1‐year postoperative visit. Reduction in the amount of gingival display at the 1‐year follow‐up visit was stable.

Conclusions: For patients desiring a less invasive alternative to orthognathic surgery, the mucosal coronally positioned flap is a viable alternative. We demonstrate short‐term successful use of this technique for the management of excessive gingival display in the presence of slight vertical maxillary excess and hypermobility of the upper lip. Long‐term follow‐up studies are needed to determine stability of the results.
Cleaning Efficacy and Soft Tissue Trauma After Use of Manual Toothbrushes With Different Bristle Stiffness
Authors: Zimmer Stefan , Öztürk Metin , Barthel Claudia R. , Bizhang Mozhgan , Jordan Rainer A.
Published: August 2010

Background: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of manual toothbrushes of the same type with different bristle stiffness concerning plaque removal, gingivitis development, and soft tissue trauma.

Methods: In a randomized controlled trial, three groups with 40 subjects each used manual toothbrushes with either hard‐, medium‐, or soft‐bristle stiffness. The at‐home brushing time was set for 2 minutes, twice a day. Four and 8 weeks after the baseline examination, clinical parameters for plaque removal, gingivitis, and soft tissue damage were recorded again. Recruitment and examinations of the subjects were performed at the Department of Operative and Preventive Dentistry and Endodontics, Heinrich Heine University. A total of 120 volunteers (age range: 18 to 62 years) were recruited and stratified according to sex and age. Primary outcome measures were differences in the Quigley and Hein index (QHI) and papillary bleeding index (PBI) compared to baseline; secondary outcome measures were differences in the modified approximal plaque index (MAPI) and Danser gingival abrasion index.

Results: The QHI and MAPI showed lower index scores in subjects who used hard‐bristled toothbrushes after 8 weeks (P <0.05 and P <0.001, respectively). In contrast, subjects who used toothbrushes with hard bristles demonstrated more gingival lesions (P <0.01) and higher PBI scores after 4 and 8 weeks (P <0.001) compared to subjects who used soft‐ or medium‐bristled toothbrushes.

Conclusion: Manual toothbrushes with hard bristles may better remove plaque, but may also cause more soft tissue trauma compared to brushes with softer bristles.
Modulation of Matrix Metalloproteinase and Cytokine Production by Licorice Isolates Licoricidin and Licorisoflavan A: Potential Therapeutic Approach for Periodontitis
Authors: La Vu Dang , Tanabe Shin‐ichi , Bergeron Chantal , Gafner Stefan , Grenier Daniel
Published: August 2010

Background: Inflammatory cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) produced by resident and inflammatory cells in response to periodontopathogens play a major role in the tissue destruction observed in periodontitis, which is a disease that affects tooth‐supporting structures. In the present study, we investigate the effects of licorice‐derived licoricidin (LC) and licorisoflavan A (LIA) on the secretion of various cytokines and MMPs by human monocyte‐derived macrophages stimulated with Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (previously Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans) lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

Methods: Macrophages were treated with non‐toxic concentrations of LC or LIA before being stimulated with A. actinomycetemcomitans LPS. The secretion of cytokines and MMPs and the activation of nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) p65 and activator protein (AP)‐1 were assessed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays.

Results: LC and LIA inhibited the secretion of interleukin (IL)‐6 and chemokine (C‐C motif) ligand 5 in a concentration‐dependent manner but did not affect the secretion of IL‐8 by LPS‐stimulated macrophages. LC and LIA also inhibited the secretion of MMP‐7, ‐8, and ‐9 by macrophages. The suppression of cytokine and MMP secretion by LC and LIA was associated with the reduced activation of NF‐κB p65 but not that of AP‐1.

Conclusion: The present study suggests that LC and LIA have potential for the development of novel host‐modulating strategies for the treatment of cytokine and/or MMP‐mediated disorders such as periodontitis.
Studies on the Movements of Ionic Selectivity, Compatible Solutes, and Intracellular Ions Caused in the Leaves of Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) Plants Cultured in a Nutrient Solution with Seawater
Authors: Sun Jin , Jia Yongxia , Guo Shirong , Chen Lifang
Published: August 2010

Analyses of ionic selectivity, compatible solutes, and intracellular ions in the leaves of spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) plants cultured in the Hoagland's nutrient solution with or without seawater (40%) were carried out using two cultivars—the Helan No.3 (seawater tolerant) and the Yuanye (seawater sensitive). When both cultivars were subjected to seawater stress, the leaves of the Helan No. 3 spinach preferred potassium (K+), calcium (Ca2+), magnesium (Mg2+), and sulfate (SO42−) over sodium (Na+) and chlorine (Cl−) to keep high ratios of K/Na, Mg/Na, Ca/Na, and SO42−/Cl− compared with the Yanye spinach. Moreover, those of the Helan No. 3 spinach under the seawater stress showed high efficiency of accumulation of compatible solutes (sugars and proline), low degradation of proteins, and suppression of free amino acids. However, the activities of plasma membrane H+‐ATPase and tonoplast H+‐ATPase in the leaves of spinach with the stress were enhanced. Taken together, the Helan No. 3 spinach under the seawater stress seems to acquire a high tolerance to the seawater salinity by inducing a high ion uptake, low concentration of Na+ and Cl−, efficient accumulation of compatible solutes, low decomposition of proteins, and suppression of free amino acids in the leaves.
Identification of Degradation Products of Erythromycin A Arising from Ozone and Advanced Oxidation Process Treatment
Authors: Luiz Danielle B. , Genena Aziza K. , Virmond Elaine , José Humberto J. , Moreira Regina F. P. M. , Gebhardt Wilhelm , Schröder Horst Fr
Published: August 2010

The degradation products of the macrolide antibiotic erythromycin A (ERY) arising from direct ozone attack and hydroxyl radical attack are presented for the first time. Ozone treatment was carried out by spiking ozone stock solutions to solutions containing ERY—ERY:O3 = 1:5 and 1:10 (M:M), while, in parallel, t‐BuOH was used as a hydroxyl radical (•OH) scavenger. The advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) O3/UV, O3/H2O2, and UV/H2O2 were carried out to recognize and verify possible differences between their primary degradation products; the initial concentrations were ERY:O3 = 1:5 (M:M), ERY:O3:H2O2 = 1:5:5 (M:M:M), or ERY:H2O2 = 1:5 (M:M), respectively. Six degradation products were identified from ozonation—one originates from direct ozone attack on the tertiary amine group, while the others arise from radical ion attack, which might be formed during degradation of O3 in water. Fewer primary degradation products were observed arising from •OH‐based treatments (AOP) than from ozonation, possibly because the reaction of •OH radicals is non‐selective and typically is diffusion‐controlled. Four degradation products were detected by •OH radical attacks; two of them already were observed during ozonation, with one as an oxidized ERY molecule and the other as a non‐oxidized fragment of the ERY molecule.