bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overexpression of the JmjC histone demethylase KDM5B in human carcinogenesis: involvement in the proliferation of cancer cells through the E2F/RB pathway
Authors: Hayami Shinya , Yoshimatsu Masanori , Veerakumarasivam Abhimanyu , Unoki Motoko , Iwai Yukiko , Tsunoda Tatsuhiko , Field Helen I. , Kelly John D , Neal David E. , Yamaue Hiroki , Ponder Bruce A. J. , Nakamura Yusuke , Hamamoto Ryuji
Published: March 2010

Background

Although an increasing number of histone demethylases have been identified and biochemically characterized, their biological functions largely remain uncharacterized, particularly in the context of human diseases such as cancer. We investigated the role of KDM5B, a JmjC histone demethylase, in human carcinogenesis. Quantitative RT-PCR and microarray analyses were used to examine the expression profiles of histone demethylases in clinical tissue samples. We also examined the functional effects of KDM5B on the growth of cancer cell lines treated with small interfering RNAs (siRNAs). Downstream genes and signal cascades induced by KDM5B expression were identified from Affymetrix Gene Chip experiments, and validated by real-time PCR and reporter assays. Cell cycle-dependent characteristics of KDM5B were identified by immunofluorescence and FACS.

Results

Quantitative RT-PCR analysis confirmed that expression levels of KDM5B are significantly higher in human bladder cancer tissues than in their corresponding non-neoplastic bladder tissues (P < 0.0001). The expression profile analysis of clinical tissues also revealed up-regulation of KDM5B in various kinds of malignancies. Transfection of KDM5B-specific siRNA into various bladder and lung cancer cell lines significantly suppressed the proliferation of cancer cells and increased the number of cells in sub-G1 phase. Microarray expression analysis indicated that E2F1 and E2F2 are downstream genes in the KDM5B pathway.

Conclusions

Inhibition of KDM5B may affect apoptosis and reduce growth of cancer cells. Further studies will explore the pan-cancer therapeutic potential of KDM5B inhibition.
Mutagenesis analysis of the zinc-finger antiviral protein
Authors: Wang Xinlu , Lv Fengxiang , Gao Guangxia
Published: March 2010

Background

The zinc-finger antiviral protein (ZAP) specifically inhibits the replication of certain viruses, including murine leukemia virus (MLV), by preventing the accumulation of viral mRNA in the cytoplasm. ZAP directly binds to the viral mRNA through the zinc-finger motifs and recruits the RNA exosome to degrade the target RNA. RNA helicase p72 is required for the optimal function of ZAP. In an attempt to understand the structure-function relationship of ZAP, we performed alanine scanning analysis.

Results

A series of ZAP mutants was generated, in which three consecutive amino acids were replaced with three alanines. The mutants were analyzed for their antiviral activities against pseudotyped MLV vector. Out of the nineteen mutants analyzed, seven displayed significantly lower antiviral activities. Two mutations were in the very N-terminal domain, and five mutations were within or around the first and second zinc-finger motifs. These mutants were further analyzed for their abilities to bind to the target RNA, the exosome, and the RNA helicase p72. Mutants Nm3 and Nm63 lost the ability to bind to RNA. Mutants Nm 63 and Nm93 displayed compromised interaction with p72, while the binding of Nm133 to p72 was very modest. The interactions of all the mutants with the exosome were comparable to wild type ZAP.

Conclusions

The integrity of the very N-terminal domain and the first and second zinc-finger motifs appear to be required for ZAP's antiviral activity. Analyses of the mutants for their abilities to interact with the target RNA and RNA helicase p72 confirmed our previous results. The mutants that bind normally to the target RNA, the exosome, and the RNA helicase p72 may be useful tools for further understanding the mechanism underlying ZAP's antiviral activity.
Efficient inhibition of hepatitis B virus replication by hepatitis delta virus ribozymes delivered by targeting retrovirus
Authors: Wang Chuan-Xi , Lu Yan-Qin , Qi Peng , Chen Long-Hua , Han Jin-Xiang
Published: March 2010

Background

Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) ribozyme is an attractive molecular tool that can specifically recognize and catalyze the self-cleavage of the viral RNA phosphodiester backbone. However, a major obstacle in the medical application of the HDV ribozyme is the lack of specificity in the delivery of the ribozyme to defined target cells.

Results

The objective of this study was to determine whether retroviral vectors can deliver the HDV ribozyme into the target cells and to elucidate whether HDV ribozyme plays a role in hepatitis B virus (HBV) replication. In our study, the transduction of helper-free pseudotyped retrovirus, which showed a broad host range, in human hepatoma cells was performed under 2 conditions, that is, in the presence of polymerized human serum albumin (pHSA) and in the absence of pHSA. The transduction ability in the presence of pHSA was higher than in the absence of pHSA. Moreover, HBsAg and HBeAg levels after transductions with pHSA were significantly lower than those in the absence of pHSA, thus indicating that the recombinant retrovirus had HBV-specific cleavage activity and targeted HepG2215 cells.

Conclusions

These data suggest that this system provides a new approach for targeting hepatocytes and has a great potential in gene therapy for HBV infection.
Intensive care unit-acquired infection as a side effect of sedation
Authors: Nseir Saad , Makris Demosthenes , Mathieu Daniel , Durocher Alain , Marquette Charles-Hugo
Published: March 2010

Introduction

Sedative and analgesic medications are routinely used in mechanically ventilated patients. The aim of this review is to discus epidemiologic data that suggest a relationship between infection and sedation, to review available data for the potential causes and pathophysiology of this relationship, and to identify potential preventive measures.

Methods

Data for this review were identified through searches of PubMed, and from bibliographies of relevant articles.

Results

Several epidemiologic studies suggested a link between sedation and ICU-acquired infection. Prolongation of exposure to risk factors for infection, microaspiration, gastrointestinal motility disturbances, microcirculatory effects are main mechanisms by which sedation may favour infection in critically ill patients. Furthermore, experimental evidence coming from studies both in humans and animals suggest that sedatives and analgesics present immunomodulatory properties that might alter the immunologic response to exogenous stimuli. Clinical studies comparing different sedative agents do not provide evidence to recommend the use of a particular agent to reduce ICU-acquired infection rate. However, sedation strategies aiming to reduce the duration of mechanical ventilation, such as daily interruption of sedatives or nursing-implementing sedation protocol, should be promoted. In addition, the use of short acting opioids, propofol, and dexmedetomidine is associated with shorter duration of mechanical ventilation and ICU stay, and might be helpful in reducing ICU-acquired infection rates.

Conclusions

Prolongation of exposure to risk factors for infection, microaspiration, gastrointestinal motility disturbances, microcirculatory effects, and immunomodulatory effects are main mechanisms by which sedation may favour infection in critically ill patients. Future studies should compare the effect of different sedative agents, and the impact of progressive opioid discontinuation compared with abrupt discontinuation on ICU-acquired infection rates.
CCAAT/Enhancer Binding Protein β2 Is Involved in Growth Hormone-Regulated Insulin-Like Growth Factor-II Gene Expression in the Liver of Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Lo Jay H. , Chen Thomas T.
Published: March 2010

Previously, we showed that levels of different CCAAT/enhancer binding protein (C/EBP) mRNAs in the liver of rainbow trout were modulated by GH and suggested that C/EBPs might be involved in GH-induced IGF-II gene expression. As a step toward further investigation, we have developed monospecific polyclonal antibodies to detect rainbow trout C/EBPα, -β1, -β2, and -δ2 isoform proteins. Injection of GH into adult rainbow trout resulted in a significant increase of C/EBPβ1, C/EBPβ2, and C/EBPδ2 proteins in the liver. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis revealed that C/EBPβ2 binds to multiple sites at the 5′ promoter/regulatory region, introns, and the 3′ untranslated region of the IGF-II gene. GH treatment reduced C/EBPβ2 binding to several of these regions at 6 h after injection. The decreased occupancy of C/EBPβ2 coincided well with an increase of histone H4 acetylation at the proximal promoter and elevation of the IGF-II mRNA level. Immunoblotting analysis showed that C/EBPβ2 existed predominately as a truncated form in the liver, and cotransfection analysis further showed that the truncated C/EBPβ2 acted as a negative regulator on IGF-II proximal promoter. GH treatment caused deacetylation of C/EBPβ2 in the liver. In addition, we observed a GH-dependent interaction of C/EBPβ2 with a complex involving histone H1. All together, these results suggest that C/EBPβ2 was regulated at multiple levels by GH, and C/EBPβ2 may play a suppressive role in mediating GH-induced IGF-II expression in the liver of rainbow trout.
Overlapping Roles of the Glucose-Responsive Genes, S14 and S14R, in Hepatic Lipogenesis
Authors: Aipoalani Derrick L. , O'Callaghan Brennon L. , Mashek Douglas G. , Mariash Cary N. , Towle Howard C.
Published: March 2010

The Spot 14 (S14; Thrsp) gene has been implicated in supporting regulated lipogenesis in mammals. S14 gene expression in liver is controlled by a wide variety of hormones and dietary factors in parallel with the major lipogenic enzyme genes. In addition, mice deleted for the S14 gene display reduced de novo lipogenesis in the lactating mammary gland. However, no decrease in hepatic lipogenesis was observed in the S14 null mouse. It was postulated that this difference could be due to the expression of a paralogous gene called S14R (S14 related; Mig12) in the liver but not mammary tissue. To test this hypothesis, we used small interfering RNA to simultaneously reduce levels of S14 and S14R in cultured primary hepatocytes. We found that rates of lipogenesis were decreased by approximately 65% in cells treated with insulin and high glucose. This reduction was associated with a decrease in total liver triacylglycerols and an altered morphology of lipid droplets. Expression of either S14 or S14R gene products was sufficient to fully restore normal lipogenesis. No change in the hepatic expression of other major lipogenic enzyme genes occurred during manipulation of S14 and/or S14R levels. These data support the hypothesis that both S14 and S14R are directly involved in supporting hepatic lipogenesis and that the two proteins play overlapping roles in this process.
Adaptations of the Autonomous Nervous System Controlling Heart Rate Are Impaired by a Mutant Thyroid Hormone Receptor-α1
Authors: Mittag Jens , Davis Benjamin , Vujovic Milica , Arner Anders , Vennström Björn
Published: March 2010

Thyroid hormone has profound direct effects on cardiac function, but the hormonal interactions with the autonomic control of heart rate are unclear. Because thyroid hormone receptor (TR)-α1 has been implicated in the autonomic control of brown adipose energy metabolism, it might also play an important role in the central autonomic control of heart rate. Thus, we aimed to analyze the role of TRα1 signaling in the autonomic control of heart rate using an implantable radio telemetry system. We identified that mice expressing the mutant TRα1R384C (TRα1+m mice) displayed a mild bradycardia, which becomes more pronounced during night activity or on stress and is accompanied by a reduced expression of nucleotide-gated potassium channel 2 mRNA in the heart. Pharmacological blockage with scopolamine and the β-adrenergic receptor antagonist timolol revealed that the autonomic control of cardiac activity was similar to that in wild-type mice at room temperature. However, at thermoneutrality, in which the regulation of heart rate switches from sympathetic to parasympathetic in wild-type mice, TRα1+m mice maintained sympathetic stimulation and failed to activate parasympathetic signaling. Our findings demonstrate a novel role for TRα1 in the adaptation of cardiac activity by the autonomic nervous system and suggest that human patients with a similar mutation in TRα1 might exhibit a deficit in cardiac adaptation to stress or physical activity and an increased sensitivity to β-blockers.
Oxytocin-Dopamine Interactions Mediate Variations in Maternal Behavior in the Rat
Authors: Shahrokh Dara K. , Zhang Tie-Yuan , Diorio Josie , Gratton Alain , Meaney Michael J.
Published: March 2010

Variations in maternal behavior among lactating rats associate with differences in estrogen-oxytocin interactions in the medial preoptic area (mPOA) and in dopamine levels in the nucleus accumbens (nAcc). Thus, stable, individual differences in pup licking/grooming (LG) are abolished by oxytocin receptor blockade or treatments that eliminate differences in the nAcc dopamine signal. We provide novel evidence for a direct effect of oxytocin at the level of the ventral tegmental area (VTA) in the regulation of nAcc dopamine levels. Mothers that exhibit consistently increased pup LG (i.e. high LG mothers) by comparison with low LG mothers show increased oxytocin expression in the mPOA and the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus and increased projections of oxytocin-positive cells from both mPOA and paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus to the VTA. Direct infusion of oxytocin into the VTA increased the dopamine signal in the nAcc. Finally, high compared with low LG mothers show greater increases in dopamine signal in the nAcc during bouts of pup LG, and this difference is abolished with infusions of an oxytocin receptor antagonist directly into the VTA. These studies reveal a direct effect of oxytocin on dopamine release within the mesocorticolimbic dopamine system and are consistent with previous reports of oxytocin-dopamine interactions in the establishment and maintenance of social bonds.
Internalized Somatostatin Receptor Subtype 2 in Neuroendocrine Tumors of Octreotide-Treated Patients
Authors: Reubi Jean Claude , Waser Beatrice , Cescato Renzo , Gloor Beat , Stettler Christoph , Christ Emanuel
Published: March 2010

Context: Somatostatin receptor subtype 2 (sst2) is widely expressed in neuroendocrine tumors and can be visualized immunohistochemically at the cell membrane for diagnostic purposes. Recently, it has been demonstrated in animal sst2 tumor models in vivo that somatostatin analog treatment was able to induce a complete internalization of the tumor sst2.

Patients and Methods: In the present study, we evaluated whether sst2 expressed in neuroendocrine tumors of patients treated with octreotide are also internalized. Tumor samples were assessed in patients that were treated with various octreotide modalities before and during surgery and compared with tumor samples from untreated patients. Sst2 immunohistochemistry was performed in all samples with three different sst2 antibodies (R2-88, UMB-1, and SS-800). Sst2 receptor expression was confirmed by immunoblotting and in vitro receptor autoradiography.

Results: Patients receiving a high dose of octreotide showed predominantly internalized sst2, and patients with a low dose of octreotide had a variable ratio of internalized vs. membranous sst2, whereas untreated patients had exclusively membranous sst2. The internalized sst2 receptor corresponded to a single sst2 band in immunoblots and to sst2 receptors in in vitro receptor autoradiography. Although generally found in endosome-like structures, internalized sst2 receptors were also identified to a small extent in lysosomes, as seen in colocalization experiments.

Conclusion: It is the first evidence showing that sst2 receptors can be internalized in sst2-expressing neuroendocrine tumors in patients under octreotide therapy, providing clues about sst2 receptor biology and trafficking dynamics in patients.
N4BP1 is a newly identified nucleolar protein that undergoes SUMO-regulated polyubiquitylation and proteasomal turnover at promyelocytic leukemia nuclear bodies
Authors: Sharma Prashant , Murillas Rodolfo , Zhang Huafeng , Kuehn Michael R.
Published: March 2010

A number of proteins can be conjugated with both ubiquitin and the small ubiquitin-related modifier (SUMO), with crosstalk between these two post-translational modifications serving to regulate protein function and stability. We previously identified N4BP1 as a substrate for monoubiquitylation by the E3 ubiquitin ligase Nedd4. Here, we describe Nedd4-mediated polyubiquitylation and proteasomal degradation of N4BP1. In addition, we show that N4BP1 can be conjugated with SUMO1 and that this abrogates N4BP1 ubiquitylation. Consistent with this, endogenous N4BP1 is stabilized in primary embryonic fibroblasts from mutants of the desumoylating enzyme SENP1, which show increased steady-state sumoylation levels. We have localized endogenous N4BP1 predominantly to the nucleolus in primary cells. However, a small fraction is found at promyelocytic leukemia (PML) nuclear bodies (NBs). In cells deficient for SENP1 or in wild-type cells treated with the proteasome inhibitor MG132, there is considerable accumulation of N4BP1 at PML NBs. These findings suggest a dynamic interaction between subnuclear compartments, and a role for post-translational modification by ubiquitin and SUMO in the regulation of nucleolar protein turnover.
Disclosure: the hidden key to winning clinical negligence claims?
Authors: Wright James , Opperman Guy
Published: March 2010

The process of obtaining and disclosing a Claimant's medical notes and records is a fundamental part of the clinical negligence (and personal injury) litigation process. It is routinely conducted in the very early stages of investigating and assessing a potential clinical negligence claim. This article argues for a case-focused, bespoke approach to disclosure which may yield information which can entirely alter the complexion of litigation, in the Claimant's favour. This article attempts to illustrate some approaches to disclosure which can be used to try to achieve this aim.
Adverse Drug Events in Adult Patients Leading to Emergency Department Visits
Authors: Sikdar Khokan C , Alaghehbandan Reza , Macdonald Don , Barrett Brendan , Collins Kayla D , Donnan Jennifer , Gadag Veeresh
Published: March 2010

Background

Adverse drug events (ADEs) occurring in the community and treated in emergency departments (EDs) have not been well studied.

Objective

To determine the prevalence, severity, and preventability of ADEs in patients presenting at EDs in 2 university-affiliated tertiary care hospitals in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted on a stratified random sample (n = 1458) of adults (≥18 y) who presented to EDs from January 1 to December 31, 2005. Prior to the chart review, the sample frame was developed by first eliminating visits that were clearly not the result of an ADE. The ED summary of each patient was initially reviewed by 2 trained reviewers in order to identify probable ADEs. All eligible charts were subsequently reviewed by a clinical team, consisting of 2 pharmacists and 2 ED physicians, to identify ADEs and determine their severity and preventability.

Results

Of the 1458 patients presenting to the 2 EDs, 55 were determined to have an ADE or a possible ADE (PADE). After a sample-weight adjustment, the prevalence of ADEs/PADEs was found to be 2.4%. Prevalence increased with age (0.7%, 18–44 y; 1.9%, 45–64 y; 7.8%, ≥65 y) and the mean age for patients with ADEs was higher than for those with no ADEs (69.9 vs 63.8 y; p < 0.01). A higher number of comorbidities and medications was associated with drug-related visits. Approximately 29% of the ADEs/PADEs identified were considered to be preventable, with 42% requiring hospitalization. Cardiovascular agents (37.4%) were the most common drug class associated with ADEs/PADEs.

Conclusions

Adult ADE-related ED visits are frequent in Newfoundland and Labrador, and in many cases are preventable. Further efforts are needed to reduce the occurrence of preventable ADEs leading to ED visits.
Rufinamide: A New Antiepileptic Medication for the Treatment of Seizures Associated with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome
Authors: Wisniewski Christopher S
Published: March 2010

Objective

To review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of rufinamide in the treatment of epileptic seizures and describe its potential place in therapy.

Data sources

MEDLINE (1966–January 2010) and PubMed (1966–January 2010) literature searches were conducted to identify primary literature investigating rufinamide. References from selected publications discussing rufinamide, as well as the package insert, were reviewed.

Study selection and data extraction

Published controlled trials describing the efficacy and safety of rufinamide were given preference. Available abstracts were also reviewed. Four published trials were identified and included and a retrospective review of the clinical use of rufinamide was also analyzed. The remainder of the information described is from 4 abstracts.

Data synthesis

Rufinamide is a new antiepileptic agent that differs structurally from other antiepileptic drugs and is approved as adjunctive therapy for Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS). It presumably provides its antiseizure activity by prolonging sodium channel inactivity, stabilizing cell membranes. It is absorbed and metabolized extensively, then excreted renally as an inactive metabolite. Clinical trials show that adjunctive rufinamide is effective at reducing seizure frequency in patients with LGS and refractory partial seizures. Rufinamide showed no effect on cognitive function in patients with refractory partial seizures. Short-term adverse event rates were similar to those of placebo. Safety data from long-term studies show that rufinamide is well tolerated, causing headache, dizziness, and fatigue at rates of >10%. Rufinamide has few clinically relevant drug interactions, although it does increase phenytoin serum concentrations, while valproate increases rufinamide serum concentrations.

Conclusions

Data show that rufinamide is safe and effective as an adjunctive agent for LGS and may be used to treat partial seizures. The benefits of rufinamide include its pharmacokinetics, limited drug interactions, and lack of effect on cognitive function, but its use is limited by the rarity of LGS and the lack of comparative data with other antiepileptic agents.
Macrocyclic oligoarylamine-based spin system
Authors: Ito Akihiro , Tanaka Kazuyoshi
Published: March 2010

Alternating meta- and para-phenylene-linked oligoarylamines are considered as promising molecular parts for the molecule-based electronics and/or spintronics due to their intriguing electronic and magnetic properties. From the magnetic viewpoint, a -meta-phenylene linker plays a crucial role in ensuring the effective ferromagnetic interaction, while para-phenylene linker plays an important part in stabilizing the spin-containing aminium radical cations. Of the meta–para and all-meta oligoarylamines prepared so far, the macrocyclic oligoarylamines are structurally defined, and therefore we can employ them as the component pieces to prepare the two- or three-dimensionally structured oligoarylamines. The spin electronic properties of polycationic species generated from two kinds of macrocyclic oligoarylamines, which will be able to be extended into the 2D multi-spin molecular systems, are described on the basis of the pulsed electron spin resonance (ESR) measurements.
Functionalization of carbon nanotubes for applications in materials science and nanomedicine
Authors: Vázquez Ester , Prato Maurizio
Published: March 2010

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) can be functionalized using a variety of efficient protocols. Especially, esterification and amidation reactions are exploited along with 1,3-dipolar cycloadditions. The use of microwaves (MWs) to activate the reactivity of CNTs is also reported. Innovative NMR methodologies can be introduced to investigate the covalent attachment of organic moieties to CNTs.
Influence of Cholesterol on Catecholamine Release from the Fusion Pore of Large Dense Core Chromaffin Granules
Authors: Wang Nan , Kwan Christina , Gong Xiandi , de Chaves Elena Posse , Tse Amy , Tse Frederick W.
Published: March 2010

Changes in cellular cholesterol can affect exocytosis, but the influence of cholesterol in fusion pore kinetics is unclear. Using carbon fiber amperometry, we monitored quantal catecholamine release from rat chromaffin cells. To bypass any possible effect of cholesterol perturbation on ion channels or the colocalization of voltage-gated Ca2+channels with sites of exocytosis, exocytosis was stimulated via uniform elevation of cytosolic [Ca2+] (with whole-cell dialysis of a Ca2+-buffered solution). Under this condition, alterations of cellular cholesterol affected neither the mean number of amperometric events triggered per cell nor their quantal size and the kinetics of their main spike (which reflects the rapid release during and after rapid fusion pore dilation). In contrast, the reduction of cellular cholesterol shortened the “prespike foot” signals (which reflect the leakage of catecholamine via a semi-stable fusion pore) and reduced the proportion of “stand-alone foot” signals (which reflect the release via a flickering fusion pore that may close before it dilates significantly), whereas an oversupply of cholesterol had opposite effects. Acute extraction of cholesterol from the cytosol (via whole-cell dialysis of a cholesterol extractor) also shortened the prespike foot signals and reduced the proportion of stand-alone foot signals, but acute extracellular application of cholesterol extractor or “soluble” cholesterol had no effect. Our data raise the possibility that cholesterol molecules, particularly those in the cytoplasmic leaflet, helps to constrain the narrow waistline of a semi-stable fusion pore while it is flickering or before it starts to dilate rapidly.
Dicer Is Required for the Transition from Early to Late Progenitor State in the Developing Mouse Retina
Authors: Georgi Sean A. , Reh Thomas A.
Published: March 2010

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), small 19–25 nucleotide RNAs that influence gene expression through posttranscriptional regulation of mRNA translation and degradation, have recently emerged as important regulators of neural development. Using conditional knock-out of Dicer, an RNase III enzyme required for miRNA maturation, previous studies have demonstrated an essential role for miRNAs in mouse cortical, inner ear, and olfactory development. However, a previous study (Damiani et al., 2008) using aChx10cremouse to delete Dicer in retinal progenitors reported no defects in the retina before the second postnatal week, suggesting that miRNAs are not required for mouse retinal development. In an effort to further study the role of miRNAs during retinal development and resolve this apparent conflict, we conditionally knocked out Dicer using a different (αPax6cre) line of transgenic mice. In contrast to the previous study, we demonstrate an essential role for miRNAs during mouse retinal development. In the absence of Dicer in the embryonic retina, production of early generated cell types (ganglion and horizontal cells) is increased, and markers of late progenitors are not expressed. This phenotype persists into postnatal retina, in which we find the Dicer-deficient progenitors fail to generate late-born cell types such as rods and Müller glia but continue to generate ganglion cells. We further characterize the dynamic expression of miRNAs during retinal progenitor differentiation and provide a comprehensive profile of miRNAs expressed during retinal development. We conclude that Dicer is necessary for the developmental change in competence of the retinal progenitor cells.
Differences in Photoreceptor Processing Speed for Chromatic and Achromatic Vision in the Bumblebee,Bombus terrestris
Authors: Skorupski Peter , Chittka Lars
Published: March 2010

Fast detection of visual change can be mediated by visual processes that ignore chromatic aspects of the visual signal, relying on inputs from a single photoreceptor class (or pooled input from similar classes). There is an established link between photoreceptor processing speed (in achromatic vision) and visual ecology. Highly maneuverable flies, for example, have the fastest know photoreceptors, relying on metabolically expensive membrane conductances to boost performance. Less active species forgo this investment and their photoreceptors are correspondingly slower. However, within a species, additional classes of photoreceptors are required to extract chromatic information, and the question therefore arises as to whether there might be within-species differences in processing speed between photoreceptors involved in chromatic processing compared with those feeding into fast achromatic visual systems. We used intracellular recording to compare light-adapted impulse responses in three spectral classes of photoreceptor in the bumblebee. Green-sensitive photoreceptors, which are known to provide achromatic contrast for motion detection, generated the fastest impulse responses (half-width, Δt= 7.9 ± 1.1 ms). Blue- and UV-sensitive photoreceptors (which are involved in color vision) were significantly slower (9.8 ± 1.2 and 12.3 ± 1.8 ms, respectively). The faster responses of green photoreceptors are in keeping with their role in fast achromatic vision. However, blue and UV photoreceptors are still relatively fast in comparison with many other insect species, as well as vertebrate cones, suggesting a significant investment in photoreceptor processing for color vision in bees. We discuss this finding in relation to bees' requirement for accurate learning of flower color, especially in conditions of variable luminance contrast.
Localized Suppression of Cortical Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone Receptors State-Specifically Attenuates Electroencephalographic Delta Waves
Authors: Liao Fan , Taishi Ping , Churchill Lynn , Urza Marcus J. , Krueger James M.
Published: March 2010

Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) promotes non-rapid eye movement sleep (NREMS), in part via a well characterized hypothalamic sleep-promoting site. However, GHRH may also act in the cortex to influence sleep. Application of GHRH to the surface of the cortex changes electroencephalographic (EEG) delta power. GHRH and the GHRH receptor (GHRHR) mRNAs are detectable in the rat cortex, and the expression of cortical GHRHR is activity dependent. Here, we microinjected a GHRH antagonist or GHRHR small interfering RNA (siGHRHR) onto the somatosensory cortex surface in rats. The unilateral application of the GHRH antagonist ipsilaterally decreased EEG delta wave power during NREMS, but not wakefulness, during the initial 40 min after injection. Similarly, the injection of siGHRHR reduced cortical expression of GHRHR and suppressed NREMS EEG delta wave power during 20–24 h after injection. Using the fura-2 calcium imaging technique, cultured cortical cells responded to GHRH by increasing intracellular calcium. Approximately 18% of the GHRH-responsive cells were GABAergic as illustrated by glutamic acid decarboxylase-67 (GAD67) immunostaining. Double labeling for GAD67 and GHRHRin vitroandin vivoindicated that only a minority of cortical GHRHR-containing cells were GABAergic. Our data suggest that endogenous cortical GHRH activates local cortical cells to affect EEG delta wave power state-specifically. Results are also consistent with the hypothesis that GHRH contributes to local network state regulation.
Assessing the Influence of Adjacent Gene Orientation on the Evolution of Gene Upstream Regions inArabidopsis thaliana
Authors: He Fei , Chen Wei-Hua , Collins Sinéad , Acquisti Claudia , Goebel Ulrike , Ramos-Onsins Sebastian , Lercher Martin J , de Meaux Juliette
Published: March 2010

The orientation of flanking genes may influence the evolution of intergenic regions in which cis-regulatory elements are likely to be located: divergently transcribed genes share their 5′ regions, resulting either in smaller “private” spaces or in overlapping regulatory elements. Thus, upstream sequences of divergently transcribed genes (bi-directional upstream regions, or URs) may be more constrained than those of uni-directional gene pairs. We investigated this effect by analyzing nucleotide variation segregating within and between Arabidopsis species. Compared to uni-directional URs, bi-directional URs indeed display lower population mutation rate, as well as more low-frequency polymorphisms. Furthermore, we find that bi-directional regions undergo selection for the maintenance of intergenic distance. Altogether, however, we observe considerable variation in evolutionary rates, with putative signatures of selection on two uni-directional upstream regions.
Resurrected Bodies
Authors: Macdonald Arlene
Published: March 2010

The anthropological literature on transplant, though theoretically and ethnographically rich, does not address religion in any substantial way. And while bio-ethical considerations of transplant regularly address religion, treatments are generally circumscribed to a list of various faith traditions and their stance toward organ transplant. Such a presentation reduces “religion” to the world’s recognized faith traditions, “religious actors” to the official spokespersons of these traditions, and “religious belief” to moral injunctions. The objective of the thesis was to illuminate the prominent place of religion in the lived experience of transplant recipients and donors, in the public policy and professional activities of transplant officials, and in the transplant discourses of North America
Manic Reparation
Authors: Greenberg Barbara
Published: March 2010

The Canadian public has heard many apologies from various governments and church institutions over the last 20 years. In June 2008 Prime Minister Stephen Harper apologized to First Nations for the federal government’s role in the residential school system. First Nations have also received apologies from the United Church of Canada (UCC) for its participation in these schools. Much of the work being done on the process of apology assesses the apology in order to judge if it is convincing and worthwhile.My work asks the question: are apologies effective in their attempt to make amends for past injustices, or are they examples of what Klein calls “manic reparation”?
Where Revelation is Silent
Authors: Emon Anver
Published: March 2010

My general line of research concerns the relationship between reason and authority in Shari’a. In particular, I am currently completing a book on Islamic natural law theories, in which I provide an analysis of how premodern Muslim jurists theorized about the authority of reason as a source of Shari’a norms where source-texts (e.g. Qur’an and Sunna) are otherwise silent.
Do We Need Theory in Religious Studies?
Authors: Ahn Juhn
Published: March 2010

This article shares the author's research in Korean Buddhism and his approach to the study of history, as he emphasises the continued relevance of seemingly distant (both historically and geographically) topics for the modern world. He exhorts readers to trust in the “messianic potential” of past religions and to consider ways in which the study of historical religions can challenge our preconceptions today.
Skin lesions in envenoming by cnidarians (Portuguese man-of-war and jellyfish): etiology and severity of accidents on the Brazilian coast
Authors: Haddad Junior Vidal , Silveira Fábio Lang da , Migotto Álvaro Esteves
Published: March 2010

This work attempts to establish dermatological identification patterns for Brazilian cnidarian species and a probable correlation with envenoming severity. In an observational prospective study, one hundred and twenty-eight patients from the North Coast region of São Paulo State, Brazil were seen between 2002 and 2008. About 80% of these showed only local effects (erythema, edema, and pain) with small, less than 20 cm, oval or round skin marks and impressions from small tentacles. Approximately 20% of the victims had long, more than 20 cm, linear and crossed marks with frequent systemic phenomena, such as malaise, vomiting, dyspnea, and tachycardia. The former is compatible with the common hydromedusa from Southeast and Southern Brazil (Olindias sambaquiensis). The long linear marks with intense pain and systemic phenomena are compatible with envenoming by the box jellyfish Tamoya haplonema and Chiropsalmus quadrumanus and the hydrozoan Portuguese man-of-war (Physalis physalis). There was an association between skin marks and probable accident etiology. This simple observation rule can be indicative of severity, as the Cubozoa Class (box jellyfish) and Portuguese man-of-war cause the most severe accidents. In such cases, medical attention, including intensive care, is important, as the systemic manifestations can be associated with death.
Relato de caso autóctone de leishmaniose visceral canina na zona sul do município do Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Figueiredo Fabiano Borges , Barbosa Filho Carlos José de Lima , Schubach Edvar Yuri Pacheco , Pereira Sandro Antonio , Nascimento Lílian Dias , Madeira Maria de Fátima
Published: March 2010

O Brasil enfrenta uma expansão e urbanização da leishmaniose visceral americana com casos humanos e caninos em várias cidades de grande porte. O presente relato descreve um caso de leishmaniose visceral canina autóctone em uma área não endêmica no município de Rio de Janeiro.
A percepção da equipe de enfermagem em situação de morte: ritual do preparo do corpo "pós-morte"
Authors: Ribeiro Maria Cecília , Baraldi Solange , Silva Maria Júlia Paes da
Published: March 2010

Este estudo objetiva avaliar a percepção (reações emocionais frente aos valores pessoais e sociais) dos funcionários da equipe de enfermagem e identificar o sentimento presente durante o preparo do corpo pós-morte, tendo em vista que os profissionais que lidam com estes acontecimentos no seu cotidiano são, muitas vezes, estigmatizados como pessoas "frias". Foram entrevistados 23 profissionais de enfermagem de uma Unidade de Terapia Intensiva, num Hospital Privado da cidade de São Paulo, em agosto de 1996. O questionário constou de dados de identificação e de perguntas abertas sobre os sentimentos, pensamentos e opinião acerca do preparo do corpo pós-morte. Os resultados apontam que as pessoas encontram-se tristes durante o preparo do corpo, afirmando haver diferença deste procedimento em relação aos demais. Associam o vínculo com o paciente e o tempo de experiência profissional com a intensidade e a presença de determinados sentimentos e emoções. O momento do preparo do corpo para a equipe de enfermagem não é desprovido de profissionalismo e emoções.
Ocorrência de acidente do trabalho por material perfurocortante entre trabalhadores de enfermagem de um hospital universitário da cidade de Campinas, estado de São Paulo
Authors: Brandi Simone , Benatti Maria Cecília Cardoso , Alexandre Neusa Maria Costa
Published: March 2010

Com o objetivo de estudar aspectos da ocorrência de acidente do trabalho por material perfurocortante entre trabalhadores de enfermagem de um hospital universitário, foram entrevistados 46 trabalhadores que se acidentaram no período de junho a dezembro de 1994. Os resultados forneceram dados importantes que poderão subsidiar programas de prevenção.
Gestos e posturas do enfermeiro durante a orientação a familiares de paciente s internados em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva (UTI)
Authors: Bezerra Ana Lúcia Queiroz , Dal Ben Luiza Watanabe , Camargo Maria Nilda Vieira , Pinheiro Valdeci F. de Oliveira
Published: March 2010

Trata-se de um estudo como caracterização dos gestos e posturas utilizados pelo enfermeiro durante a orientação sistematizada de familiares dos pacientes internados em UTI. Os dados foram coletados através de filmagem das interações entre a enfermeira e o familiar. Na análise foram identificadas as diversas categorias dos gestos propostos por Ekman e Friesen. Entre os resultados destacou-se com maior frequência a presença dos gestos ilustrativos, o que foi positivo, pois eles contribuiram para enfatizar a fala da enfermeira e facilitar a compreensão do familiar.
Ocorrências adversas com medicação em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva: análise da administração de soluções hidroeletrolíticas e antibióticos
Authors: Manenti Simone , Chaves Adriano Bezerra , Leopoldino Regiane S. , Padilha Katia Grillo
Published: March 2010

O presente estudo teve por objetivos: 1) verificar a incidência de ocorrências adversas (OAs) com medicação relacionadas ao tempo de infusão das soluções hidroeletrolíticas e ao número de doses de antibióticos prescritos e administrados aos pacientes; 2) caracterizar a natureza dessas ocorrências. A investigação foi realizada em duas UTIs de um hospital geral do Município de São Paulo. Fizeram parte do estudo os dados contidos nos prontuários de 51 pacientes que estiveram internados naquelas Unidades no mês de Agosto de 1996. Quanto à caracterização dos pacientes, 60% tinham idade acima de 60 anos, 58,8% eram mulheres, 49,1% permaneceram na UTI entre 1 e 5 dias e, ao saírem dela, 41,2 % foram para a Unidade de Cuidados Semi-Intensivos. Referente à incidência de 0As relacionadas ao tempo de administração das soluções hidroeletrolíticas e ao número de doses de antibióticos, constatou-se o não cumprimento das prescrições médicas dos pacientes, em 76,3% e 38,6%, respectivamente. A maior freqüência de irregularidades quanto aos soros (60,2%) foi referente a administração em tempo menor que o prescrito (adiantamentos) e, no caso dos antibióticos, a redução do número de doses (85%). Considerando-se tais irregularidades como ocorrências indesejáveis na prática da enfermagem na UTI, há que se investir na busca de medidas preventivas dessas ocorrências.
Homicídio seguido de suicídio: relato de caso
Authors: Bins Helena Dias de Castro , Döler Cíntia , Teitelbaum Paulo Oscar
Published: March 2010

OBJETIVO: Examinar o fenômeno clínico de homicídio seguido de suicídio (HS) a partir de um caso no qual o desfecho de suicídio não ocorreu por motivos alheios à vontade e às ações do sujeito. DESCRIÇÃO DO CASO: Trata-se do caso de um homem que matou sua namorada por ciúmes, por ocasião do término do relacionamento entre ambos, tentando, a seguir, o suicídio. No presente artigo, é dada especial ênfase aos aspectos forenses do caso, avaliado para fins de determinação de responsabilidade penal e acompanhado no Instituto Psiquiátrico Forense Dr. Maurício Cardoso, Porto Alegre (RS). COMENTÁRIOS: Ressalta-se que, ao se modificar o desfecho de um caso típico de HS, por não ter se consumado o suicídio do homicida, dois aspectos assumem relevância: as consequências legais a serem enfrentadas pelo sujeito e o manejo do impacto psíquico no sobrevivente. Do ponto de vista da prevenção, o conhecimento do fenômeno HS e dos fatores descritos como associados a ele justificaria uma constante atenção ao tema por parte dos profissionais de saúde mental. O presente relato foi autorizado pelo paciente através de termo de consentimento livre e esclarecido.
Juventude e socialização política: atualizando o debate
Authors: Castro Lucia Rabello de
Published: March 2010

O presente trabalho examina criticamente a atualidade da noção de socialização política, tendo em vista as questões que hoje se colocam sobre o distanciamento dos jovens em relação à política. O conceito de socialização política é analisado sob dois aspectos principais: em primeiro lugar, são discutidos seus pressupostos relacionados a uma teoria identitária de subjetividade que essencializa posições subjetivas relacionadas à idade, e se apoia numa visão desenvolvimentista da trajetória de vida humana. Em segundo lugar, discute-se como os estudos de socialização política pressupõem uma divisão entre espaços público e privado, em que as relações de transmissão cultural entre jovens e adultos, restritas ao espaço privado, desconsideram a contribuição da juventude em relação às decisões da vida em comum.
Estilos interactivos de educadoras do Ensino Especial em contexto de educação-de-infância
Authors: Grande Catarina , Pinto Ana Isabel
Published: March 2010

Este estudo pretendeu caracterizar os estilos interactivos das educadoras do Ensino Especial ao se relacionarem com crianças com Necessidades Educativas Especiais (NEE) integradas em creches/jardins-de-infância do Porto. Participaram 50 educadoras e 50 crianças. Os comportamentos interactivos foram avaliados utilizando a Escala de Avaliação dos Estilos de Ensino. O envolvimento das crianças foi codificado por meio do EQUAL-III. A análise de clusters identificou dois sub-grupos: (i) educadoras que utilizam mais frequentemente comportamentos directivos; (ii) educadoras nas quais predominam comportamentos elaborativos e responsivos. Os subgrupos distinguiram-se em características de qualidade estrutural da sala, da educadora e do envolvimento da criança. As crianças com NEE parecem se beneficiar de interacções baixas em directividade. Interacções elaborativas-responsivas tendem a promover níveis mais sofisticados de envolvimento, pelo que são recomendadas.
Anatomopathological study of cardiomyopathy induced by doxorubicin in rats
Authors: Pontes José Carlos Dorsa Vieira , Gomes Júnior Jandir Ferreira , Silva Guilherme Viotto Rodrigues da , Benfatti Ricardo Adala , Dias Amaury Edgardo Mont'Serrat Ávila Souza , Duarte João Jackson , Gardenal Neimar , Odashiro Maçanori , Santos Carlos Henrique Marques dos
Published: March 2010

PURPOSE: The development of an experimental model of myocardiopathy induced by Doxorubicin in rats. METHODS: 16 wistar male rats were randomized in two groups: Group I (placebo) and Group II (Doxorubicin - 5mg/kg). After six months, the animals were subjected to cardiotomy and their hearts were weighted and submitted to transversal cuts, from which fragments for a macro and micro study were obtained. These fragments were studied considering their external and internal diameters and the thickness of the left ventricle (LV). The histological pieces were analyzed for the presence of fibrosis, cytoplasmic vacuolization, necrosis and size of nucleus variation. Data obtained was submitted to statistical analysis with Student's t test. RESULTS: The hearts of the animals in Group II increased 41% in relation to their weight; 33% in the internal diameter and 14% in the external diameter of the LV cavity; and 24% in the thickness of the wall. Fibrosis of the myocardial tissue was observed in 75% of the animals of Group II; all the animals presented miocyte cytoplasmatic vacuolization; myocardial necrosis was present in 75% of the animals; and 87/% presented variation in the size of myocite nuclei. The presence of polymorphonuclear cells was also observed. CONCLUSION: Doxorubicin was effective in the promotion of macro and microscopic alterations in the cardiac tissue of rats, possibly constituting a model for the experimental study of myocardiopathy.