bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tcragene recombination is supported by aTcraenhancer- and CTCF-dependent chromatin hub
Authors: Shih Han-Yu , Verma-Gaur Jiyoti , Torkamani Ali , Feeney Ann J. , Galjart Niels , Krangel Michael S.
Published: November 2012

Antigen receptor locus V(D)J recombination requires interactions between widely separated variable (V), diversity (D), and joining (J) gene segments, but the mechanisms that generate these interactions are not well understood. Here we assessed mechanisms that direct developmental stage-specific long-distance interactions at theTcra/Tcrdlocus. TheTcra/Tcrdlocus recombinesTcrdgene segments in CD4−CD8−double-negative thymocytes andTcragene segments in CD4+CD8+double-positive thymocytes. Initial Vα-to-Jαrecombination occurs within a chromosomal domain that displays a contracted conformation in both thymocyte subsets. We used chromosome conformation capture to demonstrate that theTcraenhancer (Eα) interacts directly with Vαand Jαgene segments distributed across this domain, specifically in double-positive thymocytes. Moreover, Eαpromotes interactions between these Vαand Jαsegments that should facilitate their synapsis. We found that the CCCTC-binding factor (CTCF) binds to Eαand to many locus promoters, biases Eαto interact with these promoters, and is required for efficient Vα–Jαrecombination. Our data indicate that Eαand CTCF cooperate to create a developmentally regulated chromatin hub that supports Vα–Jαsynapsis and recombination.
A ribosome-specialized translation initiation pathway is required for cap-dependent translation of vesicular stomatitis virus mRNAs
Authors: Lee Amy Si-Ying , Burdeinick-Kerr Rebeca , Whelan Sean P. J.
Published: November 2012

Initiation is the primary target of translational control for all organisms. Regulation of eukaryotic translation is traditionally thought to occur through initiation factors and RNA structures. Here, we characterize a transcript-specific translation initiation mechanism that is mediated by the ribosome. By studying vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), we identify the large ribosomal subunit protein rpL40 as requisite for VSV cap-dependent translation but not bulk cellular or internal ribosome entry site–driven translation. This requirement is conserved among members of the order Mononegavirales, including measles virus and rabies virus. Polysome analyses and in vitro reconstitution of initiation demonstrate that rpL40 is required for 80S formation on VSV mRNAs through a
cis
-regulatory element. Using deep sequencing, we further uncover a subset of cellular transcripts that are selectively sensitive to rpL40 depletion, suggesting VSV may have usurped an endogenous translation pathway. Together, these findings demonstrate that the ribosome acts as a translational regulator outside of its catalytic role during protein synthesis.
Nezha/CAMSAP3 and CAMSAP2 cooperate in epithelial-specific organization of noncentrosomal microtubules
Authors: Tanaka Nobutoshi , Meng Wenxiang , Nagae Shigenori , Takeichi Masatoshi
Published: November 2012

Major microtubules in epithelial cells are not anchored to the centrosome, in contrast to the centrosomal radiation of microtubules in other cell types. It remains to be discovered how these epithelial microtubules are generated and stabilized at noncentrosomal sites. Here, we found that Nezha [also known as calmodulin-regulated spectrin-associated protein 3 (CAMSAP3)] and its related protein, CAMSAP2, cooperate in organization of noncentrosomal microtubules. These two CAMSAP molecules coclustered at the minus ends of noncentrosomal microtubules and thereby stabilized them. Depletion of CAMSAPs caused a marked reduction of microtubules with polymerizing plus ends, concomitantly inducing the growth of microtubules from the centrosome. In CAMSAP-depleted cells, early endosomes and the Golgi apparatus exhibited irregular distributions. These effects of CAMSAP depletion were maximized when both CAMSAPs were removed. These findings suggest that CAMSAP2 and -3 work together to maintain noncentrosomal microtubules, suppressing the microtubule-organizing ability of the centrosome, and that the network of CAMSAP-anchored microtubules is important for proper organelle assembly.
Overview of Inland Recreational Fisheries in Brazil
Authors: Freire Kátia M F , Machado Michel L , Crepaldi Daniel
Published: November 2012

This article presents a general overview of recreational fisheries in Brazil, with emphasis on inland fisheries; reports their current needs; and provides directions for future work considering that there is an apparent increase in recreational fishing in emerging economies around the globe. Even though there is no nationwide survey to identify the profile of all Brazilian recreational fishers, some insights can be obtained from competitive fishing events and from the questionnaire printed on the back of fishing licenses. The number of fishing licenses issued in 2010 was approximately 220,000, representing an increase of 220% compared to 2000. Some estimates suggest that the number of recreational fishers in Brazil may be around 10 million. Information on fishing expenses, catch-and-release activities, fishing guides, lodging, fishing areas, target species, management control, and fishing clubs and associations is presented. Data for basic estimates such as total number of recreational fishers, total catch and species composition, and total economic value are unavailable, but the results presented here are nevertheless essential for a long-term planning of the development of recreational fishing in Brazil. Other requirements are presented and suggestions are made toward improved management of recreational fisheries in Brazil and other emerging economies.

RESUMEN

Este trabajo presenta un panorama de las pesquerías recreativas de Brasil, con énfasis en las pesquerías continentales; se muestran las tendencias actuales y se ofrecen directrices para investigaciones futuras, considerando que aparentemente hay un incremento de las pesquerías recreativas en las economías emergentes al-rededor del mundo. A pesar de que no existe un sondeo del perfil de todas las pesquerías recreativas en Brasil, es posible obtener información a partir de torneos de pesca y cuestionarios impresos en el reverso de los permisos de pesca. El número de permisos de pesca emitidos en 2010 fue de aproximadamente 220,000, lo que representa un incremento del 220% con respecto al año 2000. Algunas estimaciones indican que el número de pescadores recreativos en Brasil está por los diez millones. Así mismo, se presenta información concerniente a los gastos de la pesca, actividades de captura-liberación, guías de pesca, áreas de pesca, especies objetivos, aspectos de manejo y clubes y asociaciones de pesca. Pese a que los datos para estimar el número de pescadores recreativos, la captura total, la composición de especies y su valor total no están disponibles, los resultados que aquí se presentan son esenciales para la planeación y el desarrollo en el largo plazo de la pesquería recreativa en Brasil. Se presentan además, otros requisitos y sugerencias para mejorar el manejo de las pesquerías recreativas en Brasil y en otras economías emergentes.
Management of Alewife Using Pacific Salmon in the Great Lakes: Whether to Manage for Economics or the Ecosystem?
Authors: Dettmers John M , Goddard Christopher I , Smith Kelley D
Published: November 2012

The combined destructive effects of overfishing, habitat destruction, and invasive species, especially alewife (Alosa pseudoharengus) and sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) led to the loss of the native top predator lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) from most of the Great Lakes by 1960. Alewife populations then exploded, creating nuisance die-offs. Public demands for action, coupled with control of sea lamprey, allowed fishery managers to consider stocking Pacific salmon to control alewife and establish a recreational fishery. This effort was successful, reducing alewife numbers and creating a recreational fishery that is estimated at $7 billion annually. This fishery management regime may no longer be viable as new invasive species continue to alter the ecosystem. Fishery managers face an interesting dilemma: whether to manage in the short term for a popular and economically important sport fishery or to embrace ecosystem change and manage primarily for native fish species that appear to be better suited to ongoing ecosystem changes. Such dilemmas occur in great lakes around the world as fishery managers seek to balance economic pressure with changes in their respective ecosystems, often brought about by invasive species.

RESUMEN

Los efectos nocivos combinados de la sobrepesca, la destrucción del hábitat y la introducción de especies invasoras, particularmente la alosa (Alosa pseudoharengus) y la lamprea marina (Petromyzon marinus) dio como resultado la pérdida de depredadores nativos de los grandes lagos en 1960, como la trucha (Salvelinus namaycush). Poco después, hubo una explosión de las po-blaciones de alosa, causando mortalidades indeseables. La demanda pública por acciones de manejo y el control de la lamprea marina, orillaron los manejadores a considerar la estabulación del salmón del Pacífico como medio para controlar a la alosa y establecer al mismo tiempo una pesquería recreativa. Este esfuerzo rindió frutos, los números poblacionales de la alosa se redujeron y se creó una pesquería que produce $7,000 millones de dólares al año. Este régimen de manejo de la pesquería puede ya no ser viable dado que nuevas especies invasoras continúan alterando el ecosistema. Los manejadores se enfrentan a un dilema interesante: hacer manejo en el corto plazo en pro de una pesquería deportiva económicamente importante, o aceptar el cambio en el ecosistema y dirigir el manejo a las especies nativas de peces que parecen adaptarse mejor a los cambios. Tal dilema también se observa en otros grandes lagos del mundo, a medida que los manejadores buscan balancear la presión económica y los cambios en los respectivos ecosistemas, los cuales suelen ser producto de la introducción de especies invasoras.
Csi1 links centromeres to the nuclear envelope for centromere clustering
Authors: Hou Haitong , Zhou Zhou , Wang Yu , Wang Jiyong , Kallgren Scott P. , Kurchuk Tatiana , Miller Elizabeth A. , Chang Fred , Jia Songtao
Published: November 2012

In the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe, the centromeres of each chromosome are clustered together and attached to the nuclear envelope near the site of the spindle pole body during interphase. The mechanism and functional importance of this arrangement of chromosomes are poorly understood. In this paper, we identified a novel nuclear protein, Csi1, that localized to the site of centromere attachment and interacted with both the inner nuclear envelope SUN domain protein Sad1 and centromeres. Both Csi1 and Sad1 mutants exhibited centromere clustering defects in a high percentage of cells. Csi1 mutants also displayed a high rate of chromosome loss during mitosis, significant mitotic delays, and sensitivity to perturbations in microtubule–kinetochore interactions and chromosome numbers. These studies thus define a molecular link between the centromere and nuclear envelope that is responsible for centromere clustering.
BCL6 positively regulates AID and germinal center gene expression via repression of miR-155
Authors: Basso Katia , Schneider Christof , Shen Qiong , Holmes Antony B. , Setty Manu , Leslie Christina , Dalla-Favera Riccardo
Published: November 2012

The BCL6 proto-oncogene encodes a transcriptional repressor that is required for germinal center (GC) formation and whose de-regulation is involved in lymphomagenesis. Although substantial evidence indicates that BCL6 exerts its function by repressing the transcription of hundreds of protein-coding genes, its potential role in regulating gene expression via microRNAs (miRNAs) is not known. We have identified a core of 15 miRNAs that show binding of BCL6 in their genomic loci and are down-regulated in GC B cells. Among BCL6 validated targets, miR-155 and miR-361 directly modulate AID expression, indicating that via repression of these miRNAs, BCL6 up-regulates AID. Similarly, the expression of additional genes relevant for the GC phenotype, including SPI1, IRF8, and MYB, appears to be sustained via BCL6-mediated repression of miR-155. These findings identify a novel mechanism by which BCL6, in addition to repressing protein coding genes, promotes the expression of important GC functions by repressing specific miRNAs.
The effect of continuous bite jumping on the dentofacial complex: a follow-up study after Herbst appliance treatment of Class II malocclusions
Authors: Pancherz Hans
Published: November 2012

The effect of continuous bite jumping on the dentofacial complex was investigated in ten consecutive Class II, Division 1 malocclusion cases treated with the Herbst appliance. All patients were growing boys with a skeletal Class II jaw base relationship. Ten boys of the same age and with the same dentofacial morphology served as a control group.

Dental casts and profile roentgenograms were analysed before treatment, after six months of treatment when the appliance was removed and six and twelve months post-treatment.

All Class II malocclusions were treated successfully by continuous bite jumping. Twelve months post-treatment normal sagittal dental arch relationships were found in 7 cases, while partial relapse was seen in 3 cases, resulting from unstable cuspal interdigitations after treatment.

Sagittal mandibular growth was accelerated by continuous bite jumping. During treatment mandibular length and the SNB angle increased significantly more than in the control group. No adverse changes in sagittal mandibular growth were seen during the 12 months after treatment.

The influence of bite jumping on maxillary growth appeared to be reversible. Maxillary prognathism (SNA angle) was significantly reduced during treatment but during the follow-up period maxillary growth caught up and the SNA angle returned almost to pretreatment values.
Association of water use efficiency and nitrogen use efficiency with photosynthetic characteristics of two wheat cultivars
Authors: van den Boogaard Riki , Kostadinova Svetla , Veneklaas Erik , Lambers Hans
Published: November 2012

We examined if higher plant water use efficiency is related to a higher investment of nitrogen in components of the photosynthetic apparatus and if this is associated with a less efficient use of nitrogen for photosynthesis or for growth. We also assessed the influence of a reduced supply of water and nitrogen on these relationships. For this purpose we used two Triticum aestivum cultivars, differing in whole plant water use efficiency.

Differences in leaf water use efficiency (A/E) between cultivars or treatments were associated with differences in Rubisco activity or rate of electron transport and, in general, with differences in plant water use efficiency. They were not invariably related to a low photosynthetic nitrogen use efficiency (PNUE). A high A/E was associated with a low PNUE, e.g. when we compared cultivars at high irradiance. In this case, a high A/E and a high leaf nitrogen concentration were associated with a low stornatal conductance and an equal rate of photosynthesis. A high A/E was not associated with a low PNUE when differences in A/E were mainly caused by higher rates of photosynthesis associated with higher nitrogen concentrations, e.g. when we compared cultivars at low irradiance and high water and nitrogen supply. An increase in the proportion of total leaf nitrogen associated with the photosynthetic apparatus at low soil-nitrogen increased PNUE, without affecting A/E in the opposite way. We conclude that whole plant nitrogen use efficiency was low for the cultivars with a high plant water use efficiency.
Genotypic Variation in Nutritional Composition of Buckwheat Groats and Husks
Authors: Lu Lu , Murphy Kevin , Baik Byung‐Kee
Published: November 2012

Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum), a highly nutritious pseudocereal rich in bioactive compounds, is principally cultivated in central and eastern European countries. Buckwheat groats and husks of 10 cultivars were subjected to nutritional composition analysis and in vitro starch digestibility determination. Significant genetic variation was detected in buckwheat groats for 1,000‐kernel weight (16.5–39.8 g), protein content (10.2–17.9%), soluble dietary fiber (1.4–3.4%), insoluble dietary fiber (2.3–8.6%), total dietary fiber (3.6–10.6%), free phenolics (4.5–17.1 mg of gallic acid equivalent [GA]/g), and total phenolics content (6.8–20.7 mg of GA/g). The buckwheat husks exhibited large differences between cultivars in protein content (3.0–6.5%), bound phenolics (6.7–26.1 mg of GA/g), and total phenolics content (32.4–58.6 mg of GA/g), which was 1.5–8 times higher than in the groat. Cooked and cooled buckwheat groats exhibited lower starch digestibility and greater resistant starch content than raw buckwheat groats. Buckwheat cultivars with unique nutritional composition, such as Co901 and Ta‐1, were identified for future breeding.
Influence of Semiarid Cropping Systems on Root Diseases and Inoculum Density of Soilborne Pathogens
Authors: Smiley Richard W. , Machado Stephen , Gourlie Jennifer A. , Pritchett Larry C. , Yan Guiping , Jacobsen Erling E.
Published: November 2012

There is interest in converting the 2-year rotation of rainfed winter wheat with cultivated fallow in the Pacific Northwest of the United States into direct-seed (no-till) systems that include chemical fallow, spring cereals, and food-legume and brassica crops. Eight cropping systems in a low-precipitation region (<330 mm) were compared over 9 years to determine effects of changes on diseases. Fusarium crown rot was more prevalent in wheat following cultivated than chemical fallow, and Rhizoctonia root rot was more severe when winter wheat was rotated with chemical fallow than with no-till winter pea. Take-all occurred even during the driest years and was more severe on annual spring wheat than on annual spring barley. Inoculum density (picograms of DNA per gram of soil) differed (α < 0.05) among cropping systems for Fusarium culmorum, F. pseudograminearum, Gaeumannomyces graminis var. tritici, and Pythium spp. but not for Rhizoctonia solani AG-8. Phoma medicaginis var. pinodella was detected only where winter pea was planted frequently. This is the first report of P. medicaginis as a component of the dryland stem rot complex of pea in north-central Oregon. Results of this investigation will provide guidance for developing crop species with resistance to Fusarium crown rot and black stem of pea.
Recent advancements in cloning by somatic cell nuclear transfer
Authors: Ogura Atsuo , Inoue Kimiko , Wakayama Teruhiko
Published: November 2012

Somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) cloning is the sole reproductive engineering technology that endows the somatic cell genome with totipotency. Since the first report on the birth of a cloned sheep from adult somatic cells in 1997, many technical improvements in SCNT have been made by using different epigenetic approaches, including enhancement of the levels of histone acetylation in the chromatin of the reconstructed embryos. Although it will take a considerable time before we fully understand the nature of genomic programming and totipotency, we may expect that somatic cell cloning technology will soon become broadly applicable to practical purposes, including medicine, pharmaceutical manufacturing and agriculture. Here we review recent progress in somatic cell cloning, with a special emphasis on epigenetic studies using the laboratory mouse as a model.
Stem cell therapy: an exercise in patience and prudence
Authors: Lin Huan-Ting , Otsu Makoto , Nakauchi Hiromitsu
Published: November 2012

In recent times, the epigenetic study of pluripotency based on cellular reprogramming techniques led to the creation of induced pluripotent stem cells. It has come to represent the forefront of a new wave of alternative therapeutic approaches in the field of stem cell therapy. Progress in drug development has saved countless lives, but there are numerous intractable diseases where curative treatment cannot be achieved through pharmacological intervention alone. Consequently, there has been an unfortunate rise in incidences of organ failures, degenerative disorders and cancers, hence novel therapeutic interventions are required. Stem cells have unique self-renewal and multilineage differentiation capabilities that could be harnessed for therapeutic purposes. Although a number of mature differentiated cells have been characterized
in vitro
, few have been demonstrated to function in a physiologically relevant context. Despite fervent levels of enthusiasm in the field, the reality is that other than the employment of haematopoietic stem cells, many other therapies have yet to be thoroughly proven for their therapeutic benefit and safety in application. This review shall focus on a discussion regarding the current status of stem cell therapy, the issues surrounding it and its future prospects with a general background on the regulatory networks underlying pluripotency.
New insights into establishment and maintenance of DNA methylation imprints in mammals
Authors: Kelsey Gavin , Feil Robert
Published: November 2012

Fundamental to genomic imprinting in mammals is the acquisition of epigenetic marks that differ in male and female gametes at ‘imprinting control regions’ (ICRs). These marks mediate the allelic expression of imprinted genes in the offspring. Much has been learnt about the nature of imprint marks, the times during gametogenesis at which they are laid down and some of the factors responsible especially for DNA methylation. Recent work has revealed that transcription and histone modifications are critically involved in DNA methylation acquisition, and these findings allow us to propose rational models for methylation establishment. A completely novel perspective on gametic DNA methylation has emerged from epigenomic profiling. Far more differentially methylated loci have been identified in gametes than known imprinted genes, which leads us to revise the notion that methylation of ICRs is a specifically targeted process. Instead, it seems to obey default processes in germ cells, giving rise to distinct patterns of DNA methylation in sperm and oocytes. This new insight, together with the identification of proteins that preserve DNA methylation after fertilization, emphasizes the key role played by mechanisms that selectively retain differential methylation at imprinted loci during early development. Addressing these mechanisms will be essential to understanding the specificity and evolution of genomic imprinting.
The origin and evolution of genomic imprinting and viviparity in mammals
Authors: Renfree Marilyn B. , Suzuki Shunsuke , Kaneko-Ishino Tomoko
Published: November 2012

Genomic imprinting is widespread in eutherian mammals. Marsupial mammals also have genomic imprinting, but in fewer loci. It has long been thought that genomic imprinting is somehow related to placentation and/or viviparity in mammals, although neither is restricted to mammals. Most imprinted genes are expressed in the placenta. There is no evidence for genomic imprinting in the egg-laying monotreme mammals, despite their short-lived placenta that transfers nutrients from mother to embryo. Post natal genomic imprinting also occurs, especially in the brain. However, little attention has been paid to the primary source of nutrition in the neonate in all mammals, the mammary gland. Differentially methylated regions (DMRs) play an important role as imprinting control centres in each imprinted region which usually comprises both paternally and maternally expressed genes (PEGs andMEGs). The DMR is established in the male or female germline (the gDMR). Comprehensive comparative genome studies demonstrated that two imprinted regions,PEG10andIGF2-H19, are conserved in both marsupials and eutherians and thatPEG10andH19DMRs emerged in the therian ancestor at least 160 Ma, indicating the ancestral origin of genomic imprinting during therian mammal evolution. Importantly, these regions are known to be deeply involved in placental and embryonic growth. It appears that most maternal gDMRs are always associated with imprinting in eutherian mammals, but emerged at differing times during mammalian evolution. Thus, genomic imprinting could evolve from a defence mechanism against transposable elements that depended on DNA methylation established in germ cells.
A Data-Driven Noise Reduction Method and Its Application for the Enhancement of Stress Wave Signals
Authors: Feng Hai-Lin , Fang Yi-Ming , Xiang Xuan-Qi , Li Jian , Li Guan-Hui
Published: November 2012

Ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD) has been recently used to recover a signal from observed noisy data. Typically this is performed by partial reconstruction or thresholding operation. In this paper we describe an efficient noise reduction method. EEMD is used to decompose a signal into several intrinsic mode functions (IMFs). The time intervals between two adjacent zero-crossings within the IMF, called instantaneous half period (IHP), are used as a criterion to detect and classify the noise oscillations. The undesirable waveforms with a larger IHP are set to zero. Furthermore, the optimum threshold in this approach can be derived from the signal itself using the consecutive mean square error (CMSE). The method is fully data driven, and it requires no prior knowledge of the target signals. This method can be verified with the simulative program by using Matlab. The denoising results are proper. In comparison with other EEMD based methods, it is concluded that the means adopted in this paper is suitable to preprocess the stress wave signals in the wood nondestructive testing.
Effect of Low-Frequency Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation on Naming Abilities in Early-Stroke Aphasic Patients: A Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind Sham-Controlled Study
Authors: Waldowski Konrad , Seniów Joanna , Leśniak Marcin , Iwański Szczepan , Członkowska Anna
Published: November 2012

Background and Purpose. Functional brain imaging studies with aphasia patients have shown increased cortical activation in the right hemisphere language homologues, which hypothetically may represent a maladaptive strategy that interferes with aphasia recovery. The aim of this study was to investigate whether low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) over the Broca’s homologues in combination with speech/language therapy improves naming in early-stroke aphasia patients.Methods. 26 right-handed aphasic patients in the early stage (up to 12 weeks) of a first-ever left hemisphere ischemic stroke were randomized to receive speech and language therapy combined with real or sham rTMS. Prior to each 45-minute therapeutic session (15 sessions, 5 days a week), 30 minutes of 1-Hz rTMS was applied. Outcome measures were obtained at baseline, immediately after 3 weeks of experimental treatment and 15 weeks; posttreatment using the Computerized Picture Naming Test.Results. Although both groups significantly improved their naming abilities after treatment, no significant differences were noted between the rTMS and sham stimulation groups. The additional analyses have revealed that the rTMS subgroup with a lesion including the anterior part of language area showed greater improvement primarily in naming reaction time 15 weeks after completion of the therapeutic treatment. Improvement was also demonstrated in functional communication abilities.Conclusions. Inhibitory rTMS of the unaffected right inferior frontal gyrus area in combination with speech and language therapy cannot be assumed as an effective method for all poststroke aphasia patients. The treatment seems to be beneficial for patients with frontal language area damage, mostly in the distant time after finishing rTMS procedure.
Relationship between increase in astrocytic GLT-1 glutamate transport and late-LTP
Authors: Pita-Almenar Juan D. , Zou Shengwei , Colbert Costa M. , Eskin Arnold
Published: November 2012

Na+-dependent high-affinity glutamate transporters have important roles in the maintenance of basal levels of glutamate and clearance of glutamate during synaptic transmission. Interestingly, several studies have shown that basal glutamate transport displays plasticity. Glutamate uptake increases in hippocampal slices during early long-term potentiation (E-LTP) and late long-term potentiation (L-LTP). Four issues were addressed in this research: Which glutamate transporter is responsible for the increase in glutamate uptake during L-LTP? In what cell type in the hippocampus does the increase in glutamate uptake occur? Does a single type of cell contain all the mechanisms to respond to an induction stimulus with a change in glutamate uptake? What role does the increase in glutamate uptake play during L-LTP? We have confirmed that GLT-1 is responsible for the increase in glutamate uptake during L-LTP. Also, we found that astrocytes were responsible for much, if not all, of the increase in glutamate uptake in hippocampal slices during L-LTP. Additionally, we found that cultured astrocytes alone were able to respond to an induction stimulus with an increase in glutamate uptake. Inhibition of basal glutamate uptake did not affect the induction of L-LTP, but inhibition of the increase in glutamate uptake did inhibit both the expression of L-LTP and induction of additional LTP. It seems likely that heightened glutamate transport plays an ongoing role in the ability of hippocampal circuitry to code and store information.
Molecular Characterization of the Fatty Alcohol Oxidation Pathway for Wax-Ester Mobilization in Germinated Jojoba Seeds
Authors: Rajangam Alex S. , Gidda Satinder K. , Craddock Christian , Mullen Robert T. , Dyer John M. , Eastmond Peter J.
Published: November 2012

Jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis) is the only plant species known to use liquid wax esters (WEs) as a primary seed storage reserve. Upon germination, WE hydrolysis releases very-long-chain fatty alcohols, which must be oxidized to fatty acids by the sequential action of a fatty alcohol oxidase (FAO) and a fatty aldehyde dehydrogenase (FADH) before they can be β-oxidized. Here, we describe the cloning and characterization of genes for each of these two activities. Jojoba FAO and FADH are 52% and 68% identical to Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) FAO3 and ALDH3H1, respectively. The genes are expressed most strongly in the cotyledons of jojoba seedlings following germination, but transcripts can also be detected in vegetative tissues. Proteomic analysis indicated that the FAO and FADH proteins can be detected on wax bodies, but they localized to the endoplasmic reticulum when they were expressed as amino-terminal green fluorescent protein fusions in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) leaves. Recombinant jojoba FAO and FADH proteins are active on very-long-chain fatty alcohol and fatty aldehyde substrates, respectively, and have biochemical properties consistent with those previously reported in jojoba cotyledons. Coexpression of jojoba FAO and FADH in Arabidopsis enhanced the in vivo rate of fatty alcohol oxidation more than 4-fold. Taken together, our data suggest that jojoba FAO and FADH constitute the very-long-chain fatty alcohol oxidation pathway that is likely to be necessary for efficient WE mobilization following seed germination.
A Novel Image‐based Tool to Reunite Children With Their Families After Disasters
Authors: Chung Sarita , Mario Christoudias C. , Darrell Trevor , Ziniel Sonja I. , Kalish Leslie A.
Published: November 2012

Objectives

Reuniting children with their families after a disaster poses unique challenges. The objective was to pilot test the ability of a novel image‐based tool to assist a parent in identifying a picture of his or her children.

Methods

A previously developed image‐based indexing and retrieval tool that employs two advanced vision search algorithms was used. One algorithm, Feature‐Attribute‐Matching, extracts facial features (skin color, eye color, and age) of a photograph and then matches according to parental input. The other algorithm, User‐Feedback, allows parents to choose children on the screen that appear similar to theirs and then reprioritizes the images in the database. This was piloted in a convenience sample of parent–child pairs in a pediatric tertiary care hospital. A photograph of each participating child was added to a preexisting image database. A double‐blind randomized crossover trial was performed to measure the percentage of database reviewed and time using the Feature‐Attribute‐Matching‐plus‐User‐Feedback strategy or User‐Feedback strategy only. Search results were compared to a theoretical random search. Afterward, parents completed a survey evaluating satisfaction.

Results

Fifty‐one parent–child pairs completed the study. The Feature‐Attribute‐Matching‐plus‐User‐Feedback strategy was superior to the User‐Feedback strategy in decreasing the percentage of database reviewed (mean ± SD = 24.1 ± 20.1% vs. 35.6 ± 27.2%; mean difference = −11.5%; 95% confidence interval [CI] = −21.5% to −1.4%; p = 0.03). Both were superior to the random search (p < 0.001). Time for both searches was similar despite fewer images reviewed in the Feature‐Attribute‐Matching‐plus‐User‐Feedback strategy. Sixty‐eight percent of parents were satisfied with the search and 87% felt that this tool would be very or extremely helpful in a disaster.

Conclusions

This novel image‐based reunification system reduced the number of images reviewed before parents identified their children. This technology could be further developed to assist future family reunifications in a disaster.
Hyperlactatemia Affects the Association of Hyperglycemia with Mortality in Nondiabetic Adults With Sepsis
Authors: Green Jeffrey P. , Berger Tony , Garg Nidhi , Horeczko Timothy , Suarez Alison , Radeos Michael S. , Hagar Yolanda , Panacek Edward A.
Published: November 2012

Background

Admission hyperglycemia has been reported as a mortality risk factor for septic nondiabetic patients; however, hyperglycemia's known association with hyperlactatemia was not addressed in these analyses.

Objectives

The objective was to determine whether the association of hyperglycemia with mortality remains significant when adjusted for concurrent hyperlactatemia.

Methods

This was a post hoc, nested analysis of a retrospective cohort study performed at a single center. Providers had identified study subjects during their emergency department (ED) encounters; all data were collected from the electronic medical record (EMR). Nondiabetic adult ED patients hospitalized for suspected infection, two or more systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) criteria, and simultaneous lactate and glucose testing in the ED were enrolled. The setting was the ED of an urban teaching hospital from 2007 to 2009. To evaluate the association of hyperglycemia (glucose > 200 mg/dL) with hyperlactatemia (lactate ≥ 4.0 mmol/L), a logistic regression model was created. The outcome was a diagnosis of hyperlactatemia, and the primary variable of interest was hyperglycemia. A second model was created to determine if coexisting hyperlactatemia affects hyperglycemia's association with mortality; the main outcome was 28‐day mortality, and the primary risk variable was hyperglycemia with an interaction term for simultaneous hyperlactatemia. Both models were adjusted for demographics; comorbidities; presenting infectious source; and objective evidence of renal, respiratory, hematologic, or cardiovascular dysfunction.

Results

A total of 1,236 ED patients were included, and the median age was 77 years (interquartile range [IQR] = 60 to 87 years). A total of 115 (9.3%) subjects were hyperglycemic, 162 (13%) were hyperlactatemic, and 214 (17%) died within 28 days of their initial ED visits. After adjustment, hyperglycemia was significantly associated with simultaneous hyperlactatemia (odds ratio [OR] = 4.14, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.65 to 6.45). Hyperglycemia and concurrent hyperlactatemia were associated with increased mortality risk (OR = 3.96, 95% CI = 2.01 to 7.79), but hyperglycemia in the absence of simultaneous hyperlactatemia was not (OR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.39 to 1.57).

Conclusions

In this cohort of septic adult nondiabetic patients, mortality risk did not increase with hyperglycemia unless associated with simultaneous hyperlactatemia. The previously reported association of hyperglycemia with mortality in nondiabetic sepsis may be due to the association of hyperglycemia with hyperlactatemia.
Trapping Old World screw‐worm fly, Chrysomya bezziana Villeneuve (Diptera: Calliphoridae), in Papua New Guinea including the coastal border with Torres Strait
Authors: Spradbery Philip , Tozer Robert S
Published: November 2012

Trapping of Old World screw‐worm fly, Chrysomya bezziana Villeneuve (Calliphoridae), using a single sticky trap baited with swormlure was undertaken at 20 locations along the southern coastline of Papua New Guinea bordering the Torres Strait on two occasions in 1981. The traps were operated for 6.5 and 12.5 days, respectively, with total trap catches of 9 male and 95 female screw‐worm fly. The mean daily trap catches were 0.23 and 0.30 C. bezziana flies for the two occasions despite nine of the trap locations failing to detect any screw‐worm flies. The results of screw‐worm fly trapping and/or sentinel cattle studies in several other locations in Papua New Guinea are also presented for comparison, with mean fly trap catches ranging from 0.04 to 0.23 and egg masses from 0.55 to 1.12 per sentinel per day. Comparisons with similar studies in Malaysia indicate that the C. bezziana populations along the Torres Strait border are relatively high with serious biosecurity implications for Australia.
Use of heated humidified high‐flow nasal cannula oxygen in neonates: a UK wide survey
Authors: Ojha Shalini , Gridley Eleanor , Dorling Jon
Published: November 2012

Aim

Heated humidified high‐flow nasal cannula (HHHFNC) oxygen is a relatively new form of respiratory support and is increasing in popularity despite lack of supportive evidence and amid safety concerns. We investigated the prevalence of its use in tertiary neonatal units in the UK.

Method

Electronic survey.

Results

A total of 57 units were contacted and replies received from 44 (77%). HHHFNC was used in 34/44 (77%) units. Vapotherm 2000i and Fisher and Paykel RT329 were the most popular devices. 39% units used HHHFNC without policies. Most reported use in infants of any gestation (24/34, 71%) and weight (26/34, 77%) and for a variety of indications including as an alternative to CPAP (26/34, 77%), weaning off CPAP (24/34, 71%) and postextubation (18/34, 53%). The flow rates, cannula size and mouth position varied widely. The popularity of HHHFNC appeared to be its perceived ease of use and improved access to the baby.

Conclusion

This survey demonstrates that HHHFNC is a widely used modality in UK neonatal units. Its current use appears to be without clear criteria and mostly based on individual preference. In view of doubts about its efficacy and concerns regarding safety, this study highlights the urgent need for research to evaluate its use in newborns.
Prolactin insufficiency but normal thyroid hormone levels after cranial radiotherapy in long‐term survivors of childhood leukaemia
Authors: Follin Cecilia , Link Katarina , Wiebe Thomas , Moëll Christian , Björk Jonas , Erfurth Eva Marie
Published: November 2012

Background

Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) patients treated with cranial radiotherapy (CRT) have an increased risk of GH deficiency (GHD). Little is known about insufficiencies of prolactin (PRL) and TSH, but also lactation failure has been reported in this population.

Objective

To study the long‐term outcome of CRT on PRL and thyroid hormone levels in GHD ALL patients and the prevalence of lactation failure.

Design

Case–control study.

Patients

We examined 40 GHD and 4 GH insufficient ALL patients, in median 20 years (range: 8–27) after ALL diagnosis and 44 matched population controls.

Measurements

PRL secretion (area under the curve; AUC) after GHRH‐arginine test in all patients and matched controls, and PRL and TSH AUC after a TRH‐test in 13 patients and 13 controls. And basal PRL and thyroid hormone levels after 5 years with GH therapy and 8 years without GH therapy.

Results

Compared with controls, ALL patients had significantly lower basal and AUC PRL after GHRH‐Arginine (P = 0·03, P = 0·02), and AUC PRL after TRH (P = 0·001). After 5 and 8 years, PRL levels decreased further (P = 0·01, P = 0·03), but thyroid hormones remained normal at baseline and at follow‐up. PRL insufficiency was significantly associated with increased levels of BMI and insulin. Six out of seven pregnant ALL women reported lactation failure.

Conclusions

Long‐term ALL survivors treated with CRT have GHD and PRL insufficiency, and a high prevalence of lactation failure, but thyroid hormones remained normal. PRL insufficiency was associated with cardiovascular risk.
Between the maternal and the professional: the impact of being a child welfare officer on motherhood
Authors: Menashe Ayelet , Possick Chaya , Buchbinder Eli
Published: November 2012

Child welfare officers experience stress from exposure to child neglect and abuse and the burden of responsibility for children's well‐being. This qualitative study addresses the question: How do social workers who are child welfare officers perceive and cope with the influence of their professional occupation on their relationships with their own children? The research is based on in‐depth interviews with a purposive sample of 10 child welfare workers who are mothers (of 2–4 children aged 2–23 years). The data analysis illustrates how the professional identity and the maternal identity of the child welfare officer fluctuate between two positions. The first is ‘anxious motherhood’ in which anxiety is the prism through which the welfare officer views the world as dangerous for her children, stimulating protective, control‐enhancing actions. The second position is reflective motherhood in which the welfare worker struggles with her own stresses and conflicts as a mother and searches for an experience of meaningful, positive motherhood. The findings reinforce the need to raise the consciousness of child welfare officers regarding the impact of encountering distress and trauma on their own well‐being as parents. In this way, they can prevent secondary traumatization and enhance professional and maternal growth.
The impact of kin support on urbanAmericanIndian families
Authors: Limb Gordon E. , Shafer Kevin , Sandoval Katrina
Published: November 2012

Scholars believe that family ties extending out to previous generations, called kin support, may have allowedAmericanIndians to withstand traumatic events. Although a series of traumatic and historical events disrupted the social structures of family life, kin support was found to be a major factor in the survival ofAmericanIndians. This study utilized theFragileFamilies andChildWellbeingStudy to compareAmericanIndians and whites (n= 1227) in factors that impact kin support. While urbanAmericanIndian mothers were similar to whites in a number of elements,AmericanIndian mothers that were not married, fell below the poverty threshold, were younger in age and co‐resided with kin were more likely than their white counterparts to receive kin support. Implications for urbanAmericanIndian mothers suggest that maintaining their role as kin keeper may serve as an intrinsic reward and motivation for caring for kin. The role of a kin keeper may also promote the unique contribution in their families and the preservation of their culture. Given the minimal research in this area, results of this study can be used to guide future research and the development of intervention strategies for practitioners working withAmericanIndian families.
The (ab)sense of a concept of social support in parenting research: a social work perspective
Authors: Geens Naomi , Vandenbroeck Michel
Published: November 2012

Social support, as a complex, dynamic and multidimensional concept, has been studied extensively. However, a review of research publications on social support and parenting reveals that social work perspectives on social support are underdeveloped in the Social Sciences Citation Index. Social support is predominantly studied in relation to parental health, considering social support as a buffer against potential negative outcomes for children. This, in turn, legitimates extensive research on parents ‘at risk’. Specific target groups have been questioned abundantly using social support measures, mainly consisting of self‐reports. We conclude that social support is studied as a predefined concept, lacking conceptualizations that encompass the actual enacted support in relation to the perspectives of both givers and receivers of support. Moreover, the focus on targeted groups ignores the experience of social support in more diverse populations in general services and in everyday life. Issues of reciprocity, diversity and multivocality are central to our appeal for social work perspectives truly encompassing the relational aspect of social support. The question whether, and to what extent, social workers (including practitioners, policy‐makers and researchers) should give attention to this relational aspect is discussed.
Building a brain in the gut: development of the enteric nervous system
Authors: Goldstein AM , Hofstra RMW , Burns AJ
Published: November 2012

The enteric nervous system (ENS), the intrinsic innervation of the gastrointestinal tract, is an essential component of the gut neuromusculature and controls many aspects of gut function, including coordinated muscular peristalsis. The ENS is entirely derived from neural crest cells (NCC) which undergo a number of key processes, including extensive migration into and along the gut, proliferation, and differentiation into enteric neurons and glia, during embryogenesis and fetal life. These mechanisms are under the molecular control of numerous signaling pathways, transcription factors, neurotrophic factors and extracellular matrix components. Failure in these processes and consequent abnormal ENS development can result in so‐called enteric neuropathies, arguably the best characterized of which is the congenital disorder Hirschsprung disease (HSCR), or aganglionic megacolon. This review focuses on the molecular and genetic factors regulating ENS development from NCC, the clinical genetics of HSCR and its associated syndromes, and recent advances aimed at improving our understanding and treatment of enteric neuropathies.
Aging in Rett syndrome: a longitudinal study
Authors: Halbach NSJ , Smeets EEJ , Steinbusch C , Maaskant MA , van Waardenburg D , Curfs LMG
Published: November 2012

Little is known about the aging process of people with specific syndromes, like Rett syndrome (RTT). Recognition of the clinical and behavioral characteristics of the adult RTT is needed in order to improve future management of the RTT girl and counseling of parents. In association with the Dutch RTT parent association, a 5‐year longitudinal study was carried out. The study population consisted of 53 adult women with a clinical diagnosis of RTT. Postal questionnaires were sent, including demographic features, skills, physical and psychiatric morbidity. At the time of the second measurement seven women had died. In 2012, 80% of the questionnaires (37/46) were returned. Mean age of the women was 31.4 years. Molecular confirmation was possible for 83% of the women for whom analyses were carried out. The adult RTT woman has a more or less stable condition. The general disorder profile is that of a slow on‐going deterioration of gross motor functioning in contrast to a better preserved cognitive functioning, less autonomic and epileptic features and good general health. This is the first longitudinal cohort study about aging in RTT. Continuing longitudinal studies are needed to gain more insight into the aging process in RTT.