bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Facilitating Social Initiations of Preschoolers With Autism Spectrum Disorders Using Video Self-Modeling
Authors: Buggey Tom , Hoomes Grace , Sherberger Mary Elizabeth , Williams Sarah
Published: October 2009

Video self-modeling (VSM) has accumulated a relatively impressive track record in the research literature across behaviors, ages, and types of disabilities. Using only positive imagery, VSM gives individuals the opportunity to view themselves performing a task just beyond their present functioning level via creative editing of videos using VCRs or video software. In this study, the authors used a single-subject multiple-baseline design across four preschool children on the autism spectrum to determine if self-modeling would facilitate their social initiations during playground time. The results were mostly positive, with two children exhibiting major treatment effects, one with questionable results, and one child being unaffected. Discussion of the results, the practicality of VSM, and suggestions for continued research are provided.
Facial Encoding of Children with High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Volker Martin A. , Lopata Christopher , Smith Donna A. , Thomeer Marcus L.
Published: October 2009

Facial encoding of a sample of children with high-functioning autism spectrum disorders (HFASD) was compared to facial encoding of matched typically developing children. Each participant was photographed after being prompted to enact a facial expression for six basic emotions. Raters evaluated (a) the extent to which the photo reflected the emotion, (b) the emotion in the photograph, and (c) the degree to which the photo appeared odd. Children with HFASD were significantly less adept at encoding sadness, and their expressions were significantly odder than those of their typical peers. Nonsignificant trends for children with HFASD suggested somewhat greater difficulty encoding anger and fear, as well as somewhat greater skill in encoding surprise and disgust, which was unanticipated.
25-Hydroxyvitamin D in cerebrospinal fluid during relapse and remission of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Holmøy Trygve , Moen Stine Marit , Gundersen Thomas A , Holick Michael F , Fainardi Enrico , Castellazzi Massimiliano , Casetta Ilaria
Published: October 2009

Hypovitaminosis D may play a role in multiple sclerosis (MS), but little is known about intrathecal vitamin D. 25-Hydroxyvitamin D was measured in cerebrospinal fluid and sera from 36 patients with relapsing-remitting MS, 20 patients with other inflammatory neurological diseases and 18 patients with non-inflammatory neurological diseases with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. There were no significant differences in cerebrospinal fluid concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, but the cerebrospinal fluid:serum ratio was significantly lower in MS compared with other inflammatory neurological diseases (p=0.0012) and non-inflammatory neurological diseases (p=0.041) patients. The concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D in cerebrospinal fluid and serum were positively correlated and their ratio was similar to that of albumin. Neither the concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D in cerebrospinal fluid or serum nor their ratio were associated with the presence of relapses or gadolinium-enhanced lesions. These results do not support that 25-hydroxyvitamin D is actively transported to the cerebrospinal fluid, or that the cerebrospinal fluid or serum levels or their ratio exert a major impact on MS activity.
When you retire, does everything become leisure? Information and communication technology use and the work/leisure boundary in retirement
Authors: Buse Christina Eira
Published: October 2009

This article explores how computer technologies relate to experiences of work and leisure in retirement. It is argued that the literature on information and communication technology (ICT) use and leisure has neglected older age groups, while research on older adults and internet use fails to explore the subjective meanings of activities as work or leisure. This article examines these issues, drawing on qualitative data from interviews with eight retired couples in the UK. The findings show varied levels of engagement with computer and internet technologies as leisure and illustrate how the boundaries of work/leisure/retirement are challenged and reconstructed in relation to technology use. The use of computers and internet for leisure was not differentiated according to gender, although there were gender differences in negotiation of work/leisure/ retirement boundaries. The hesitance among many retirees to define computer technologies as leisure, and their restriction of other leisure technologies, suggests generational and possibly class issues.
Patterns of media use and multiplexity: associations with sex, geographic distance and friendship interdependence
Authors: Ledbetter Andrew M.
Published: October 2009

This study examines patterns of interpersonal media use in same-sex friendships. Using a refined version of Scott and Timmerman’s media use scale, participants reported the extent to which they used eight different communication media and the level of interdependence in the friendship. The results revealed four distinct factors of media use: asynchronous public communication, asynchronous private communication, social networking communication and synchronous offline communication. Both sex and geographic distance differences emerged on these factors and all factors except asynchronous private communication predicted friendship interdependence. These findings clarify underlying patterns of media use and suggest that both privacy and orality are salient properties delineating media types.
Shame and Punishment
Authors: Koster Ferry , Goudriaan Heike , van der Schans Coen
Published: October 2009

This study investigates the effects of having a religious affiliation and of an individual’s level of religiosity on social norms in relation to victimless crimes. Two mechanisms are hypothesized to influence these norms: having a religious affiliation, via external sanctioning by others, and religiosity via internal sanctioning. In addition, it was predicted that the effects of internal sanctioning would be stronger than the effects of external sanctioning. To test these hypotheses, we used the data from the World Values Survey (WVS) 1981—2004. The final data set contains information on 128,243 respondents residing in 70 countries. The results of the multivariate analyses show that having a religious affiliation and a higher level of religiosity both result in a stronger condemnation of victimless crimes and that the effects of religiosity are stronger than the effects of belonging to a religious group.
Feeding Wolves
Authors: Green David A.
Published: October 2009

This article considers the implications of cultural values, political-cultural arrangements and the changing mediascape for the distinct cultural resources on crime and punishment that we consume as citizens. It first explores what we mean when we talk about punitiveness, making the important, yet often overlooked, distinctions between public attitudes, political rhetoric, public policy and penal practice. Next, the ways in which the media constrain how we perceive problems and the means of solving them are considered, especially the ways these constraints are influenced by different political-cultural styles. ‘Stealth’ penal reforms, in which punitive rhetoric is employed by politicians to divert attention away from more progressive policies pursued quietly on the sly, are criticized because they tend to legitimize and regenerate only punitive ideational resources for public consumption. Finally, implications for future research are offered along with some practical suggestions for enriching public discourse in order to nourish and sustain a broader range of understandings and responses to crime.
Maternal Involvement in the Home Literacy Environment: Supporting Literacy Skills in Children With Cochlear Implants
Authors: DesJardin Jean L. , Ambrose Sophie E. , Eisenberg Laurie S.
Published: October 2009

This study examines the home literacy environment in a group of mothers and their early-school-age children with cochlear implants ( N = 16). The goals of this investigation are to (a) describe the characteristics of the home literacy environment and (b) study the relationships between home literacy factors and children’s reading skills. Mothers completed a home literacy environment inventory and were videotaped during joint book reading. Children’s literacy skills were assessed using the Phonological Awareness Test and the Woodcock-Johnson III Diagnostic Reading Battery. Mothers’ perceived activities in their home, defined as maternal literacy teaching activities, were dominant and were positively related to children’s literacy skills. Two types of maternal responses to children’s miscues and two maternal comprehension techniques were used most frequently. Those same techniques were not positively associated with children’s literacy skills. Guidelines for educators are provided to better support the home literacy environment for children with cochlear implants.
Surface Resistivity and Shear Characteristics of Polyaniline Coated Polyester Fabric
Authors: Neelakandan R. , Giridev V.R. , Murugesan M. , Madhusoothanan M.
Published: October 2009

The surface resistivity and shear characteristics of the polyaniline/ polyester fabrics produced by varying the number of coatings with different fabric structures were studied. With increase in number of coatings, the resistivity of the fabric decreases. The plain woven fabric gives higher surface resistivity than twill and satin weaves. Shear rigidity of twill and satin fabrics are lower than that of plain woven fabrics.
Planning and Ideology
Authors: Guttenberg Albert Z.
Published: October 2009

This article identifies some of the major themes or ideologies that dominate American planning as they are reflected in the variable meanings of some of its key terms, especially, the word “planning,” itself. It avers that these ideologies refer not only to the planning of cities and regions, but to the nation as a whole. It traces their origins to the societal crises such as culture conflict, war, and depression that have shaken American society in the course of the last century, or to periods of recovery from such crises. It shows how they have succeeded each other in time, so as to constitute more or less distinct eras of planning thought and practice. It also notes how the same ideologies confront each other in space resulting in severe land-use conflicts, especially at the edges of metropolitan areas. In the light of these ideologies, the article raises questions about the nature and future of the contemporary American planning profession.
Overactive bladder in males
Authors: Gomelsky Alex , Dmochowski Roger R.
Published: October 2009

The prevalence of overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms is considerable in both men and women and the impact on quality of life (QOL) is equally substantial. Ironically, despite nearly equal prevalence, OAB symptoms in men are infrequently treated, and often with medical therapies aimed at bladder outlet obstruction (BOO). In this review, we examine the pathophysiology of OAB and its evaluation in the context of benign prostatic hypertrophy and concomitant BOO. We then consider the efficacy and safety of individual therapeutic options for lower urinary tract symptoms in men, focusing on the mainstays of medical therapy: α-adrenergic blockers, 5-α reductase inhibitors, and antimuscarinic agents. Finally, we aim to comment on new therapeutic strategies and targets that may one day be available for the treatment of male OAB.
Static Measure of Foot Loading
Authors: Voronov Michael L. , Pinzur Michael S. , Hoffman Heather H. , Havey Robert M. , Carandang Gerard , Patwardhan Avinash G.
Published: October 2009

Static and dynamic loading of the foot are important characteristics for understanding human walking in both health and disease. The goal of this investigation was to determine whether an objective measure of normal midstance loading of the foot could reliably be recorded using readily available disposable qualitative recording devices. Ten randomly selected normal volunteers were trained to step on Harris mat and Pressure Stat recording devices during normal walking. Each of the recordings was divided into 5 weight-bearing regions by 2 separate examiners. After outlining each foot, the recordings were digitized and compared. Interobserver reliability ranged from 0.81 to 0.96 for the Harris mat technique and 0.94 to 0.97 for the Pressure Stat technique. Data from a linear regression plot indicate high precision of calculations of the foot masks between the 2 examiners based on an R 2 value of 0.966 using the Pressure Stat method. These data plus a linear regression plot suggest that both qualitative recording devices, when digitized using a standardized format, appear to obtain a reliable objective measure of midstance loading during normal gait. The Pressure Stat device may be slightly more reliable. It is planned to use this standardized experimental model to compare objectively patterns of midstance loading in patients with injury or disease that is capable of altering normal walking.
The Use of Probiotics for the Prevention of Necrotizing Enterocolitis in the Premature Infant
Authors: Anderson Tanna , Lord Amy , Shotkoski Nadia , O'Keefe Catherine
Published: October 2009

Studies have suggested the possible benefits of prophylactic administration of probiotics to the premature infant for the prevention of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). A survey was designed to determine the knowledge and practices of neonatal intensive care practitioners regarding the use of probiotics for the prevention of NEC in the premature infant. One hundred seventy-one surveys were completed. Most respondents were neonatal nurse practitioners (n = 100, 59%). Most (64%, n = 110) indicated that NEC was a significant problem; however, only 13 (8%) of these respondents used probiotics for the prevention of NEC. Eighty-six respondents (57%) identified the lack of published studies on the use of probiotics for the prevention of NEC as the reason for not administering probiotics. No statistically significant relationship was found between the use of probiotics for the prevention of NEC and duration of practice, location of practice, or willingness to try new treatments. A statistically significant relationship was revealed between the use of probiotics in general and the use of probiotics for the prevention of NEC. More research is needed in the area of probiotics and the prevention of NEC in the premature infant before a practice change can be considered.
Quantification of Energy Wastage From Canola Oil Supplementation in Preterm Infants
Authors: Cohen Shlomi , Dollberg Shaul , Mimouni Francis B. , Peled Yohanan , Mandel Dror
Published: October 2009

The objective of this study was to quantify energy wasted when canola oil (CO) is added to the diet of preterm infants. Eight preterm infants were studied; gestational age ranged from 27 to 33 weeks, and birth weight ranged from 800 to 1317 g. Each infant was studied at baseline for 3 days of stool collection, at the end of which energy expenditure (EE) was measured 1 hour after meals. Each infant was then supplemented with 3 g CO/kg/d for 3 days, after which the study was repeated. Stools were collected for fat analysis. EE increased from 58 ± 6.8 to 62.4 ± 4.6 kcal/kg/24 hours after introduction of CO (P < .03). Stool fat increased from 1.37 ± 1.2 to 2.18 ± 1.2 g/kg/d. Of the fat added, 27% was lost in stools, and 17% was wasted as spent energy. The increase in EE correlated significantly with the coefficient of fat absorption (R 2 = 0.56, P = .029). In conclusion, the addition of CO to the diet of preterm infants leads to net energy storage of more than half of the extra energy administered and may be an inexpensive alternative to medium-chain triglyceride oil.
Do Dietary Modifications Made Prior to Pubertal Maturation Have the Potential to Decrease Obesity Later in Life? A Developmental Perspective
Authors: Casazza Krista , Thomas Olivia
Published: October 2009

Dietary intake is an important contributor to the obesity epidemic in children and adults, but the long-term effects of dietary interventions after obesity has occurred are modest at best. Childhood obesity significantly increases the risk of adult obesity. It has been suggested that prior to puberty, the interaction of physiological and dietary intake factors greatly affects overall trajectory of weight gain of the life course. This review article summarizes research on the role of diet on weight and metabolic outcomes, and it suggests how dietary interventions prior to puberty may decrease the prevalence of obesity life span. Specifically, presented literature examines dietary intake in early life and through the pubertal transition, as well as the role of macro- and micronutrients in mechanisms that influence fat accumulation and storage. The evidence suggests that multiple early life periods for dietary interventions could have a cumulative effect on optimizing tissue partitioning and limiting excessive fat accumulation into adulthood. Prior to the pubertal transition, it appears that improving diet quality in the context of energy balance may also be a key strategy for preventing current and future obesity.
Visualizing the von Willebrand factor/glycoprotein Ib-IX axis with a platelet-type von Willebrand disease mutation
Authors: Guerrero Jose A. , Kyei Mark , Russell Susan , Liu Junling , Gartner T. Kent , Storrie Brian , Ware Jerry
Published: October 2009

Platelet-type von Willebrand disease (PT-VWD) is a bleeding disorder of the platelet glycoprotein Ib-IX/von Willebrand factor (VWF) axis caused by mutations in the glycoprotein Ib-IX receptor that lead to an increased affinity with VWF. In this report, platelets from a mouse expressing a mutation associated with PT-VWD have been visualized using state-of-the art image collection and processing. Confocal analysis revealed that VWF bound to the surface of single platelets and bridging micro-aggregates of platelets. Surface-bound VWF appears as a large, linear structure on the surface of 50% of the PT-VWD platelets. In vivo thrombus formation after chemical injury to the carotid artery revealed a severe impairment to occlusion as a consequence of the PT-VWD mutation. In vitro stimulation of PT-VWD platelets with adenosine diphosphate or thrombin demonstrates a significant block in their ability to bind fibrinogen. The impairment of in vivo thrombus formation and in vitro fibrinogen binding are more significant than might be expected from the observed platelet binding to VWF polymers over a small portion of the plasma membrane. Visualization of the receptor/ligand interaction and characterization of a severe antithrombotic phenotype provide a new understanding on the molecular basis of bleeding associated with the PT-VWD phenotype.
Testing mitochondrial sequences and anonymous nuclear markers for phylogeny reconstruction in a rapidly radiating group: molecular systematics of the Delphininae (Cetacea: Odontoceti: Delphinidae)
Authors: Kingston Sarah E , Adams Lara D , Rosel Patricia E
Published: October 2009

Background

Many molecular phylogenetic analyses rely on DNA sequence data obtained from single or multiple loci, particularly mitochondrial DNA loci. However, phylogenies for taxa that have undergone recent, rapid radiation events often remain unresolved. Alternative methodologies for discerning evolutionary relationships under these conditions are desirable. The dolphin subfamily Delphininae is a group that has likely resulted from a recent and rapid radiation. Despite several efforts, the evolutionary relationships among the species in the subfamily remain unclear.

Results

Here, we compare a phylogeny estimated using mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region sequences to a multi-locus phylogeny inferred from 418 polymorphic genomic markers obtained from amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) analysis. The two sets of phylogenies are largely incongruent, primarily because the mtDNA tree provides very poor resolving power; very few species' nodes in the tree are supported by bootstrap resampling. The AFLP phylogeny is considerably better resolved and more congruent with relationships inferred from morphological data. Both phylogenies support paraphyly for the genera Stenella and Tursiops. The AFLP data indicate a close relationship between the two spotted dolphin species and recent ancestry between Stenella clymene and S. longirostris. The placement of the Lagenodelphis hosei lineage is ambiguous: phenetic analysis of the AFLP data is consistent with morphological expectations but the phylogenetic analysis is not.

Conclusion

For closely related, recently diverged taxa, a multi-locus genome-wide survey is likely the most comprehensive approach currently available for phylogenetic inference.
Voice disorders and mental health in teachers: a cross-sectional nationwide study
Authors: Nerrière Eléna , Vercambre Marie-Noël , Gilbert Fabien , Kovess-Masféty Viviane
Published: October 2009

Background

Teachers, as professional voice users, are at particular risk of voice disorders. Among contributing factors, stress and psychological tension could play a role but epidemiological data on this problem are scarce. The aim of this study was to evaluate prevalence and cofactors of voice disorders among teachers in the French National Education system, with particular attention paid to the association between voice complaint and psychological status.

Methods

The source data come from an epidemiological postal survey on physical and mental health conducted in a sample of 20,099 adults (in activity or retired) selected at random from the health plan records of the national education system. Overall response rate was 53%. Of the 10,288 respondents, 3,940 were teachers in activity currently giving classes to students. In the sample of those with complete data (n = 3,646), variables associated with voice disorders were investigated using logistic regression models. Studied variables referred to demographic characteristics, socio-professional environment, psychological distress, mental health disorders (DSM-IV), and sick leave.

Results

One in two female teachers reported voice disorders (50.0%) compared to one in four males (26.0%). Those who reported voice disorders presented higher level of psychological distress. Sex- and age-adjusted odds ratios [95% confidence interval] were respectively 1.8 [1.5-2.2] for major depressive episode, 1.7 [1.3-2.2] for general anxiety disorder, and 1.6 [1.2-2.2] for phobia. A significant association between voice disorders and sick leave was also demonstrated (1.5 [1.3-1.7]).

Conclusion

Voice disorders were frequent among French teachers. Associations with psychiatric disorders suggest that a situation may exist which is more complex than simple mechanical failure. Further longitudinal research is needed to clarify the comorbidity between voice and psychological disorders.
Reduction of liver macrophage transduction by pseudotyping lentiviral vectors with a fusion envelope from Autographa californicaGP64 and Sendai virus F2 domain
Authors: Markusic David M , van Til Niek P , Hiralall Johan K , Elferink Ronald PJ Oude , Seppen Jurgen
Published: October 2009

Background

Lentiviral vectors are well suited for gene therapy because they can mediate long-term expression in both dividing and nondividing cells. However, lentiviral vectors seem less suitable for liver gene therapy because systemically administered lentiviral vectors are preferentially sequestered by liver macrophages. This results in a reduction of available virus and might also increase the immune response to the vector and vector products.

Reduction of macrophage sequestration is therefore essential for efficient lentiviral liver gene therapy.

Results

Fusions were made of Autographa californica GP64 and the hepatocyte specific Sendai Virus envelope proteins. Lentiviral vectors were produced with either wild type GP64, Sendai-GP64, or both wild type GP64 and Sendai-GP64 and tested in vitro and in vivo for hepatocyte and macrophage gene transfer.

Sendai-GP64 pseudotyped vectors showed specific gene transfer to HepG2 hepatoma cells, with no detectable transduction of HeLa cervical carcinoma cells, and a decreased affinity for RAW mouse macrophages. Co-expression of wild type GP64 and Sendai-GP64 resulted in improved viral titers while retaining increased affinity for HepG2 cells.

In vivo, the Sendai-GP64 vectors also showed decreased transduction of murine liver macrophages.

Conclusion

We demonstrate reduced macrophage transduction in vitro and in vivo with GP64/Sendai chimeric envelope proteins.
Placental malaria and low birth weight in pregnant women living in a rural area of Burkina Faso following the use of three preventive treatment regimens
Authors: Tiono Alfred B , Ouedraogo Alphonse , Bougouma Edith C , Diarra Amidou , Konaté Amadou T , Nébié Issa , Sirima Sodiomon B
Published: October 2009

Background

The weekly chemoprophylaxis of malaria during pregnancy with chloroquine (CQ) has become problematic with the increasing resistance of Plasmodium falciparum to this drug. There was a need to test the benefits of new strategies over the classical chemoprophylaxis. This study was conducted to provide data to the National Malarial Control Programme for an evidence-based policy change decision making process. It compares the efficacy of two IPT regimens, using chloroquine (CQ) or sulphadoxine/pyrimethamine (SP), with the classical chemoprophylaxis regimen using CQ in reducing the adverse outcomes of malaria infection, for the mother and the foetus.

Methods

Pregnant women attending the first antenatal care visit were randomly assigned to one of the three treatment regimens. They were subsequently followed up till delivery. Maternal, placental and cord blood samples were obtained upon delivery to check for P. falciparum infection.

Results

A total of 648 pregnant women were enrolled in the study. Delivery outcome were available for 423 of them. Peripheral maternal P. falciparum infection at delivery was found in 25.8% of the women. The proportion of women with maternal infection was significantly lower in the IPTp/SP group than in the CQ group (P << 0.000). The prevalence of placental malaria was 18.8% in the CWC/CQ group; 15.9% in the IPTp/CQ group and 10.6% in the IPTp/SP group. The incidence of LBW (weigth < 2,500 g) was significantly higher among infants of mothers in the CWC/CQ group (23.9%) as compared with those of mothers in the IPTp/CQ (15.6%) and IPTp/SP (11.6%) groups (p = 0.02)

Conclusion

Intermittent preventive treatment with SP has shown clear superiority in reducing adverse outcomes at delivery, as compared with intermittent preventive treatment with CQ and classical chemoprophylaxis with CQ.
Detection of NP, N3 and N7 antibodies to avian influenza virus by indirect ELISA using yeast-expressed antigens
Authors: Upadhyay Chitra , Ammayappan Arun , Vakharia Vikram N
Published: October 2009

Background

Avian influenza viruses, belonging to the family Orthomyxoviridae, possess distinct combinations of hemagglutinin (H) and the neuraminidase (N) surface glycoproteins. Typing of both H and N antigens is essential for the epidemiological and surveillance studies. Therefore, it is important to find a rapid, sensitive, and specific method for their assay, and ELISA can be useful for this purpose, by using recombinant proteins.

Results

The nucleoprotein (NP) and truncated neuraminidase subtype 3 and 7 of avian influenza virus (AIV) were expressed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and used to develop an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for antibody detection. The developed assays were evaluated with a panel of 64 chicken serum samples. The performance of NP-ELISA was compared with the commercially available ProFlok® AIV ELISA kit. The results showed comparable agreement and sensitivity between the two tests, indicating that NP-ELISA assay can be used for screening the influenza type A antibody in AIV infected birds. The N3 and N7- ELISAs also reacted specifically to their type specific sera and did not exhibit any cross-reaction with heterologous neuraminidase subtype specific sera.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates the expression of the NP, N3, and N7 proteins of AIV in yeast (S. cerevisiae) and their application in developing an indirect ELISA for detecting NP, N3 and N7 antibodies from AIV-infected chicken sera. The described indirect ELISAs are rapid, sensitive, specific and can be used as promising tests during serological surveillance.
An occasional diagnosis of myasthenia gravis - a focus on thymus during cardiac surgery: a case report
Authors: Agrifoglio Marco , Barili Fabio , Dainese Luca , Cappai Antioco , Cheema Faisal H , Biglioli Paolo
Published: October 2009

Background

Myasthenia gravis, an uncommon autoimmune syndrome, is commonly associated with thymus abnormalities. Thymomatous myasthenia gravis is considered to have worst prognosis and thymectomy can reverse symptoms if precociously performed.

Case report

We describe a case of a patient who underwent mitral valve repair and was found to have an occasional thymomatous mass during the surgery. A total thymectomy was performed concomitantly to the mitral valve repair.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of thymomatous myasthenia gravis was confirmed postoperatively. Following the surgery this patient was strictly monitored and at 1-year follow-up a complete stable remission had been successfully achieved.
Multidendritic sensory neurons in the adult Drosophila abdomen: origins, dendritic morphology, and segment- and age-dependent programmed cell death
Authors: Shimono Kohei , Fujimoto Azusa , Tsuyama Taiichi , Yamamoto-Kochi Misato , Sato Motohiko , Hattori Yukako , Sugimura Kaoru , Usui Tadao , Kimura Ken-ichi , Uemura Tadashi
Published: October 2009

Background

For the establishment of functional neural circuits that support a wide range of animal behaviors, initial circuits formed in early development have to be reorganized. One way to achieve this is local remodeling of the circuitry hardwiring. To genetically investigate the underlying mechanisms of this remodeling, one model system employs a major group of Drosophila multidendritic sensory neurons - the dendritic arborization (da) neurons - which exhibit dramatic dendritic pruning and subsequent growth during metamorphosis. The 15 da neurons are identified in each larval abdominal hemisegment and are classified into four categories - classes I to IV - in order of increasing size of their receptive fields and/or arbor complexity at the mature larval stage. Our knowledge regarding the anatomy and developmental basis of adult da neurons is still fragmentary.

Results

We identified multidendritic neurons in the adult Drosophila abdomen, visualized the dendritic arbors of the individual neurons, and traced the origins of those cells back to the larval stage. There were six da neurons in abdominal hemisegment 3 or 4 (A3/4) of the pharate adult and the adult just after eclosion, five of which were persistent larval da neurons. We quantitatively analyzed dendritic arbors of three of the six adult neurons and examined expression in the pharate adult of key transcription factors that result in the larval class-selective dendritic morphologies. The 'baseline design' of A3/4 in the adult was further modified in a segment-dependent and age-dependent manner. One of our notable findings is that a larval class I neuron, ddaE, completed dendritic remodeling in A2 to A4 and then underwent caspase-dependent cell death within 1 week after eclosion, while homologous neurons in A5 and in more posterior segments degenerated at pupal stages. Another finding is that the dendritic arbor of a class IV neuron, v'ada, was immediately reshaped during post-eclosion growth. It exhibited prominent radial-to-lattice transformation in 1-day-old adults, and the resultant lattice-shaped arbor persisted throughout adult life.

Conclusion

Our study provides the basis on which we can investigate the genetic programs controlling dendritic remodeling and programmed cell death of adult neurons, and the life-long maintenance of dendritic arbors.
ERG-associated protein with SET domain (ESET)-Oct4 interaction regulates pluripotency and represses the trophectoderm lineage
Authors: Yeap Leng-Siew , Hayashi Katsuhiko , Surani M Azim
Published: October 2009

Background

Pluripotency, the capacity for indefinite self-renewal and differentiation into diverse cell types is a unique state exhibited by embryonic stem (ES) cells. Transcriptional regulators, such as Oct4, are critical for pluripotency, but the role of epigenetic modifiers remains to be fully elucidated.

Results

Here, we show that ERG-associated protein with SET domain (ESET), a histone methyltransferase enzyme, maintains pluripotency through repression of Cdx2, a key trophectoderm determinant, by histone H3 lysine 9 trimethylation (H3K9me3) of the promoter region. Notably, this repression is mediated through the synergistic function of small ubiquitin-related modifier (SUMO)ylated ESET and Oct4. ESET localises to the promyelocytic leukaemia (PML) nuclear bodies and is SUMOylated in ES cells. Interaction of ESET with Oct4 depends on a SUMO-interacting motif (SIM) in Oct4, which is critical for the repression of Cdx2.

Conclusion

Loss of ESET or Oct4 results in strikingly similar phenotypes both in ES cells with their differentiation into trophectoderm cells, and in early embryos where there is a failure of development of the pluripotent inner cell mass (ICM) of blastocysts. We propose that SUMOylated ESET-Oct4 complex is critical for both the initiation and maintenance of pluripotency through repression of differentiation, particularly of the trophectoderm lineage by epigenetic silencing of Cdx2.
Determinants of Treatment Access in a Population‐based Cohort of HIV‐positive Men and Women Living in Argentina
Authors: Zala Carlos , Rustad Clare A , Chan Keith , Khan Nabeela I , Beltran Marcelo , Warley Eduardo , Ceriotto Mariana , Druyts Eric F , Hogg Robert S , Montaner Julio , Cahn Pedro ,   PUMA Study Group
Published: October 2009

Objective

To report emerging data on the use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in Argentina by assessing patterns of HAART access and late vs early treatment initiation in a population‐based cohort of adults infected with HIV type‐1.

Design

The Prospective Study on the Use and Monitoring of Antiretroviral Therapy (PUMA) is a study of 883 HIV‐positive individuals enrolled in the Argentinean drug treatment program. Individuals were 16 years of age and older and were recruited from 10 clinics across Argentina.

Methods

Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were examined using contingency tables (Pearson chi‐square test and Fisher exact test) for categoric variables and Wilcoxon rank‐sum test for continuous variables. To analyze time to initiation of HAART we used Kaplan‐Meier methods and Cox regression.

Results

Patients who initiated HAART were more likely to be older, have an AIDS‐defining illness, be an injection drug user (IDU), have a lower median CD4 cell count, have a higher median viral load, and be less likely to be men who have sex with men (MSM). In multivariate analysis, AIDS‐defining illness and plasma viral load were significantly associated with time to starting therapy. Patients who received late access were more likely to be diagnosed with AIDS and have higher median plasma viral loads than those receiving early access.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that despite free availability of treatment, monitoring, and care in Argentina, a significant proportion of men and women are accessing HAART late in the course of HIV disease. Further characterization of the HIV‐positive population will allow for a more comprehensive evaluation of the impact of HAART within the Argentinean drug treatment program.
Glomerular Filtration Rate and Parathyroid Hormone Secretion in Primary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Tassone F. , Gianotti L. , Emmolo I. , Ghio M. , Borretta G.
Published: October 2009

Context: The recent Third International Workshop on the Management of Asymptomatic Primary Hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) set 60 ml/min as the precise level of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) below which surgery is recommended because it is considered a threshold of concern in patients with PHPT.

Objective: The aim of the study was to investigate the relationship between different stages of renal insufficiency and PTH levels in PHPT patients.

Design: We conducted a cross-sectional study.

Patients and Methods: We studied 294 consecutive PHPT patients. Biochemical evaluation included total and ionized serum calcium, phosphate, creatinine, immunoreactive intact PTH, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 levels in the fasting state. GFR was assessed with the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study formula.

Results: The mean GFR of the whole group of PHPT patients was 92.3 ± 31.6 ml/min · 1.73 m2. The patients were divided into four groups according to National Kidney Foundation Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (K/DOQI) guidelines: group 1 with normal or increased GRF (>90 ml/min · 1.73 m2; n = 153); group 2 with mild decreased GFR (60–89 ml/min · 1.73 m2; n = 90); group 3 with moderately decreased GFR (30–59 ml/min · 1.73 m2; n = 45); and group 4 with severely decreased GFR (<30 ml/min · 1.73 m2; n = 6). PTH levels were comparable across groups 1–3, whereas group 4 showed significantly higher PTH levels (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion: In our series of PHPT patients, only a severe impairment of GFR was characterized by a further PTH increase. These findings challenge the concept of a PTH elevation below the threshold of 60 ml/min of GFR.

In a large series of contemporary PHPT patients, only a severe impairment of glomerular filtration rate (i.e., <30 ml/min/1.73 m2) is characterized by a further PTH elevation.
Mexico’s Superior Health Council and the American Public Health Association: The Transnational Archive of Porfirian Public Health, 1887–1910
Authors: Ross Paul
Published: October 2009

In the late nineteenth century, Mexico’s Superior Health Council devised a consistent and assertive international strategy around alignment with international scientific standards, the control of disease certification on Mexican soil by Mexican experts, transparent disease reporting, internationally demonstrated competence in campaigns against tropical disease, and participation in multilateral health agreements. The council came to command a central role in the regime of Porfirio Díaz (1877–1911), mainly because this international strategy enabled a successful defense of Mexican sovereignty. In the arena of public health, the council, led by Eduardo Licéaga, came close to realizing the Científicos’ dream of Mexican development “without U.S. investment.” This was largely because the council obtained independent access to European ideas and technologies prior to its engagement with the United States, which began in 1890 when the first Mexican delegation attended the annual meeting of the American Public Health Association (APHA). Through a persistent and creative diplomatic campaign, taking advantage of relationships cultivated through the APHA, Porfirio Díaz’s sanitary advisors persuaded many of their American counterparts that Mexican experts could be trusted partners in defending the health of the western hemisphere. The article describes the Atlantic world of Mexican medicine in the nineteenth century, the significance of public health within a context shaped by rising U.S. imperialism, the key role played by Licéaga, and Mexico’s participation in the APHA.
From Consumer to Prosumer to Produser: Who Keeps Shifting My Paradigm? (We Do!)
Authors: Grinnell Claudia K.
Published: October 2009

Less than ten years after going mainstream, the Web returns to its roots as a read/write tool while entering a new, more social and participatory phase (Web 2.0) where the consumer's role morphs into that of “produser.”
On Target: Aura, Affect, and the Rhetoric of “Design Democracy”
Authors: Harold Christine
Published: October 2009

This article analyzes the Target Corporation as an example of the foregrounding of design in contemporary consumer culture. To understand the destiny of the manufactured object in an age of aesthetic capitalism, this article argues that the previous relationships among use value, exchange value, and sign value need to be reconfigured. A new dimension of the object is emerging, one that is best understood as combining aura and affect.
Cytoskeletal dynamics in growth-cone steering
Authors: Geraldo Sara , Gordon-Weeks Phillip R.
Published: October 2009

Interactions between dynamic microtubules and actin filaments are essential to a wide range of cell biological processes including cell division, motility and morphogenesis. In neuronal growth cones, interactions between microtubules and actin filaments in filopodia are necessary for growth cones to make a turn. Growth-cone turning is a fundamental behaviour during axon guidance, as correct navigation of the growth cone through the embryo is required for it to locate an appropriate synaptic partner. Microtubule-actin filament interactions also occur in the transition zone and central domain of the growth cone, where actin arcs exert compressive forces to corral microtubules into the core of the growth cone and thereby facilitate microtubule bundling, a requirement for axon formation. We now have a fairly comprehensive understanding of the dynamic behaviour of the cytoskeleton in growth cones, and the stage is set for discovering the molecular machinery that enables microtubule-actin filament coupling in growth cones, as well as the intracellular signalling pathways that regulate these interactions. Furthermore, recent experiments suggest that microtubule-actin filament interactions might also be important for the formation of dendritic spines from filopodia in mature neurons. Therefore, the mechanisms coupling microtubules to actin filaments in growth-cone turning and dendritic-spine maturation might be conserved.
Myosin-Va restrains the trafficking of Na+/K+-ATPase-containing vesicles in alveolar epithelial cells
Authors: Lecuona Emilia , Minin Alexander , Trejo Humberto E. , Chen Jiwang , Comellas Alejandro P. , Sun Haiying , Grillo Doris , Nekrasova Oxana E. , Welch Lynn C. , Szleifer Igal , Gelfand Vladimir I. , Sznajder Jacob I.
Published: October 2009

Stimulation of Na+/K+-ATPase activity in alveolar epithelial cells by cAMP involves its recruitment from intracellular compartments to the plasma membrane. Here, we studied the role of the actin molecular motor myosin-V in this process. We provide evidence that, in alveolar epithelial cells, cAMP promotes Na+/K+-ATPase recruitment to the plasma membrane by increasing the average speed of Na+/K+-ATPase-containing vesicles moving to the cell periphery. We found that three isoforms of myosin-V are expressed in alveolar epithelial cells; however, only myosin-Va and Vc colocalized with the Na+/K+-ATPase in intracellular membrane fractions. Overexpression of dominant-negative myosin-Va or knockdown with specific shRNA increased the average speed and distance traveled by the Na+/K+-ATPase-containing vesicles, as well as the Na+/K+-ATPase activity and protein abundance at the plasma membrane to similar levels as those observed with cAMP stimulation. These data show that myosin-Va has a role in restraining Na+/K+-ATPase-containing vesicles within intracellular pools and that this restrain is released after stimulation by cAMP allowing the recruitment of the Na+/K+-ATPase to the plasma membrane and thus increased activity.
Ste20-kinase-dependent TEDS-site phosphorylation modulates the dynamic localisation and endocytic function of the fission yeast class I myosin, Myo1
Authors: Attanapola Sheran L. , Alexander Christopher J. , Mulvihill Daniel P.
Published: October 2009

Type I myosins are monomeric motors involved in a range of motile and sensory activities in different cell types. In simple unicellular eukaryotes, motor activity of class I myosins is regulated by phosphorylation of a conserved `TEDS site' residue within the motor domain. The mechanism by which this phosphorylation event affects the cellular function of each myosin I remains unclear. The fission yeast myosin I, Myo1, activates Arp2/3-dependent polymerisation of cortical actin patches and also regulates endocytosis. Using mutants and Myo1-specific antibodies, we show that the phosphorylation of the Myo1 TEDS site (serine 361) plays a crucial role in regulating this protein's dynamic localisation and cellular function. We conclude that although phosphorylation of serine 361 does not affect the ability of this motor protein to promote actin polymerisation, it is required for Myo1 to recruit to sites of endocytosis and function during this process.
Unravelling the ultrastructure of stress granules and associated P-bodies in human cells
Authors: Souquere Sylvie , Mollet Stéphanie , Kress Michel , Dautry François , Pierron Gérard , Weil Dominique
Published: October 2009

Stress granules are cytoplasmic ribonucleoprotein granules formed following various stresses that inhibit translation. They are thought to help protecting untranslated mRNAs until stress relief. Stress granules are frequently seen adjacent to P-bodies, which are involved in mRNA degradation and storage. We have previously shown in live cells that stress granule assembly often takes place in the vicinity of pre-existing P-bodies, suggesting that these two compartments are structurally related. Here we provide the first ultrastructural characterization of stress granules in eukaryotic cells by electron microscopy. Stress granules resulting from oxidative stress, heat-shock or protein overexpression are loosely organised fibrillo-granular aggregates of a moderate electron density, whereas P-bodies are denser and fibrillar. By in situ hybridization at the electron microscopic level, we show that stress granules are enriched in poly(A)+ mRNAs, although these represent a minor fraction of the cellular mRNAs. Finally, we show that, despite close contact with P-bodies, both domains remain structurally distinct and do not interdigitate.
Myosin V spatially regulates microtubule dynamics and promotes the ubiquitin-dependent degradation of the fission yeast CLIP-170 homologue, Tip1
Authors: Martín-García Rebeca , Mulvihill Daniel P.
Published: October 2009

Coordination between microtubule and actin cytoskeletons plays a crucial role during the establishment of cell polarity. In fission yeast, the microtubule cytoskeleton regulates the distribution of actin assembly at the new growing end during the monopolar-to-bipolar growth transition. Here, we describe a novel mechanism in which a myosin V modulates the spatial coordination of proteolysis and microtubule dynamics. In cells lacking a functional copy of the class V myosin, Myo52, the plus ends of microtubules fail to undergo catastrophe on contacting the cell end and continue to grow, curling around the end of the cell. We show that this actin-associated motor regulates the efficient ubiquitin-dependent proteolysis of the Schizosaccharomyces pombe CLIP-170 homologue, Tip1. Myo52 facilitates microtubule catastrophe by enhancing Tip1 removal from the plus end of growing microtubules at the cell tips. There, Myo52 and the ubiquitin receptor, Dph1, work in concert to target Tip1 for degradation.