bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Relationship of Management Style and Job Satisfaction among PE Teachers
Authors: Ehsani Mohammad
Published: July 2010

The Relationship of Management Style and Job Satisfaction among PE Teachers

The present study was conducted with the purpose of determining the relationship between management style of physical education responsibilities with job satisfaction of sport teachers and determination of the relationship between transformational and transactional leadership of physical education authorities with job satisfaction of sport instructors.

After recognition of relationships between management style and leadership with job satisfaction, a step is taken towards recognition of effective factors for improvement of organization; therefore, such research is considered as optimized and appropriate solutions for recognition of the management and organization's problems and difficulties, for presenting guidance.

This study is based on the opinions of 181 male and female physical education teachers from five districts of the education and instruction department of Esfahan, in which the type of management style of physical education authorities of all five districts of education and instruction of Esfahan and job-satisfaction of the teacher were evaluated through two questionnaires, the confidentiality of which was computed via Cronbach's alpha-coefficient.

Results of the study showed that the relationship between management style and leadership of physical education authorities and sport teachers' job-satisfaction with P<0.01 level has been positive and significant. Also, the relationship between transformational and transactional management style of physical education authorities and job-satisfaction of teachers with p<0.01 level has been positive and significant too. Amongst other results of this study with regard to e.g. sex, age, marital status, field of education, educational degree, and previous work-record of P.E teachers and their job-satisfaction, the relationship for those with p<0.01 level has not been significant.
Value Priorities in Connection to Sport Participation
Authors: Perényi Szilvia
Published: July 2010

Value Priorities in Connection to Sport Participation

Sport participation is not only a token for the general physical health of youth and future generations, but also a fundamental element of youth socialisation and value transfer. This study is based on Youth2004©, which contains a nationwide, randomly selected representative sample of 15 to 29 year old subjects (N=8000). The purpose of this study was to analyse the layout of value preferences of sport participant and non-participant Hungarian youth by using the same methods of analysis that were applied to the data of the first edition of the Youth research series in year 2000. The goals are to analyse whether similar values would connect to sport participation, taking the time element into consideration, and to review how sport participation is associated with the layout of values, examining the socio-demographic determination of both sport participation and value orientation. For data analysis Mean and non-parametric Mann & Whitney U test was applied. It was found that, similarly to previous results, the majority of values associated with sport participation fall under the self-direction, stimulation value dimensions of Schwartz (1994). However, the higher importance given to the materialistic value of ‘wealth/richness’ by the non-participants in the first set of data (Perényi 2008), was not traceable four years later. Furthermore, the continuing democratisation of society and sport provided for the inclusion of wider societal segments, which can also be tracked by the wider portfolio of preferred values by sporting participants. Values like appreciation of ‘tradition’ and ‘national identity’, however, may also have more association to other socio-demographic factors and, as a consequence, to life circumstances, such as size of settlement or level of education.
Ostrom, the commons, and the anthropology of “earthlings” and their atmosphere
Authors: Rabinowitz Dan
Published: July 2010

Elinor Ostrom, joint winner (with Oliver Williamson)
of the 2009 Nobel prize in economic
sciences, was quickly recognized by anthropologists
as an honorary member of the tribe, and as
someone whose achievements are a tribute to
the discipline (see Baumard 2009; Wutich and
Smth 2009). A political scientist by training,
Ostrom was not formally trained as an anthropologist
or an ethnographer. This notwithstanding,
her commitment to empirical field research
and her preoccupation since the early 1970s with
the role of collective action, trust, and cooperation
in arrangements designed to enhance the
management of common pool resources (CPRs)
repeatedly directed her toward populations (indigenous
groups at the margins of states) and
issues (institutions designed and operated at
the community level) usually associated with
anthropology.
TaxCollector: Modifying Current 16S rRNA Databases for the Rapid Classification at Six Taxonomic Levels
Authors: Giongo Adriana , Davis-Richardson Austin G. , Crabb David B. , Triplett Eric W.
Published: July 2010

The high level of conservation of 16S ribosomal RNA gene (16S rRNA) in all Prokaryotes makes this gene an ideal tool for the rapid identification and classification of these microorganisms. Databases such as the Ribosomal Database Project II (RDP-II) and the Greengenes Project offer access to sets of ribosomal RNA sequence databases useful in identification of microbes in a culture-independent analysis of microbial communities. However, these databases do not contain all of the taxonomic levels attached to the published names of the bacterial and archaeal sequences. TaxCollector is a set of scripts developed in Python language that attaches taxonomic information to all 16S rRNA sequences in the RDP-II and Greengenes databases. These modified databases are referred to as TaxCollector databases, which when used in conjunction with BLAST allow for rapid classification of sequences from any environmental or clinical source at six different taxonomic levels, from domain to species. The TaxCollector database prepared from the RDP-II database is an important component of a new 16S rRNA pipeline called PANGEA. The usefulness of TaxCollector databases is demonstrated with two very different datasets obtained using samples from a clinical setting and an agricultural soil. The six TaxCollector scripts are freely available on http://taxcollector.sourceforge.net and on http://www.microgator.org.
Estimating Global Cropland Extent with Multi-year MODIS Data
Authors: Pittman Kyle , Hansen Matthew C. , Becker-Reshef Inbal , Potapov Peter V. , Justice Christopher O.
Published: July 2010

This study examines the suitability of 250 m MODIS (MODerate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) data for mapping global cropland extent. A set of 39 multi-year MODIS metrics incorporating four MODIS land bands, NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) and thermal data was employed to depict cropland phenology over the study period. Sub-pixel training datasets were used to generate a set of global classification tree models using a bagging methodology, resulting in a global per-pixel cropland probability layer. This product was subsequently thresholded to create a discrete cropland/non-cropland indicator map using data from the USDA-FAS (Foreign Agricultural Service) Production, Supply and Distribution (PSD) database describing per-country acreage of production field crops. Five global land cover products, four of which attempted to map croplands in the context of multiclass land cover classifications, were subsequently used to perform regional evaluations of the global MODIS cropland extent map. The global probability layer was further examined with reference to four principle global food crops: corn, soybeans, wheat and rice. Overall results indicate that the MODIS layer best depicts regions of intensive broadleaf crop production (corn and soybean), both in correspondence with existing maps and in associated high probability matching thresholds. Probability thresholds for wheat-growing regions were lower, while areas of rice production had the lowest associated confidence. Regions absent of agricultural intensification, such as Africa, are poorly characterized regardless of crop type. The results reflect the value of MODIS as a generic global cropland indicator for intensive agriculture production regions, but with little sensitivity in areas of low agricultural intensification. Variability in mapping accuracies between areas dominated by different crop types also points to the desirability of a crop-specific approach rather than attempting to map croplands in aggregate.
The Effects of the Location of Au Additives on Combustion-generated SnO2 Nanopowders for CO Gas Sensing
Authors: Bakrania Smitesh D. , Wooldridge Margaret S.
Published: July 2010

The current work presents the results of an experimental study of the effects of the location of gold additives on the performance of combustion-generated tin dioxide (SnO2) nanopowders in solid state gas sensors. The time response and sensor response to 500 ppm carbon monoxide is reported for a range of gold additive/SnO2 film architectures including the use of colloidal, sputtered, and combustion-generated Au additives. The opportunities afforded by combustion synthesis to affect the SnO2/additive morphology are demonstrated. The best sensor performance in terms of sensor response (S) and time response (t) was observed when the Au additives were restricted to the outermost layer of the gas-sensing film. Further improvement was observed in the sensor response and time response when the Au additives were dispersed throughout the outermost layer of the film, where S = 11.3 and t = 51 s, as opposed to Au localized at the surface, where S = 6.1 and t = 60 s.
Symmetries of the Central Vestibular System: Forming Movements for Gravity and a Three-Dimensional World
Authors: McCollum Gin , Hanes Douglas A.
Published: July 2010

Intrinsic dynamics of the central vestibular system (CVS) appear to be at least partly determined by the symmetries of its connections. The CVS contributes to whole-body functions such as upright balance and maintenance of gaze direction. These functions coordinate disparate senses (visual, inertial, somatosensory, auditory) and body movements (leg, trunk, head/neck, eye). They are also unified by geometric conditions. Symmetry groups have been found to structure experimentally-recorded pathways of the central vestibular system. When related to geometric conditions in three-dimensional physical space, these symmetry groups make sense as a logical foundation for sensorimotor coordination.
Adenosine A2AAgonist Administration Improves Islet Transplant Outcome: Evidence for the Role of Innate Immunity in Islet Graft Rejection
Authors: Chhabra Preeti , Wang Kunjie , Zeng Qiang , Jecmenica Mladen , Langman Linda , Linden Joel , Ketchum Robert J. , Brayman Kenneth L.
Published: July 2010

Activation of adenosine A2Areceptors inhibits inflammation in ischemia/reperfusion injury, and protects against cell damage at the injury site. Following transplantation 50% of islets die due to inflammation and apoptosis. This study investigated the effects of adenosine A2Areceptor agonists (ATL146e and ATL313) on glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) in vitro and transplanted murine syngeneic islet function in vivo. Compared to vehicle controls, ATL146e (100 nM) decreased insulin stimulation index [SI, (insulin)high glucose/(insulin)low glucose] (2.36 ± 0.22 vs. 3.75 ± 0.45; n = 9; p < 0.05). Coculture of islets with syngeneic leukocytes reduced SI (1.41 ± 0.17; p < 0.05), and this was restored by ATL treatment (2.57 ± 0.18; NS). Addition of a selective A2AAR antagonist abrogated ATL's protective effect, reducing SI (1.11 ± 0.42). ATL treatment of A2AAR+/+islet/A2AAR-/-leukocyte cocultures failed to protect islet function (SI), implicating leukocytes as likely targets of A2AAR agonists. Diabetic recipient C57BL/6 mice (streptozotocin; 250 mg/kg, IP) received islet transplants to either the renal subcapsular or hepatic-intraportal site. Recipient mice receiving ATL therapy (ATL 146e or ATL313, 60 ng/kg/min, IP) achieved normoglycemia more rapidly than untreated recipients. Histological examination of grafts suggested reduced cellular necrosis, fibrosis, and lymphocyte infiltration in agonist-treated animals. Administration of adenosine A2Areceptor agonists (ATL146e or ATL313) improves in vitro GSIS by an effect on leukocytes, and improves survival and functional engraftment of transplanted islets by inhibiting inflammatory islet damage in the peritransplant period, suggesting a potentially significant new strategy for reducing inflammatory islet loss in clinical transplantation.
Optimizing Orthotopic Cell Transplantation in the Mouse Adrenal Gland
Authors: Cardoso Cibele C. , Bornstein Stefan R. , Hornsby Peter J.
Published: July 2010

Orthotopic cell transplantation models are important for a complete understanding of cell–cell interactions as well as tumor biology. In published studies of orthotopic transplantation in the mouse adrenal gland, human neuroblastoma cells have been shown to invade and occupy the adrenal, but in these investigations a true orthotopic model was not established. Here we show an orthotopic model in which transplanted cells are retained within the adrenal gland by formation of a fibrin clot. To establish an appropriate technique, we used brightly fluorescent 10 μm polystyrene microspheres injected into the mouse adrenal gland. In the absence of fibrinogen/thrombin for clot formation, much of the injected material was extruded to the outside of the gland. When the microspheres were injected in a fibrinogen/thrombin mixture, fluorescence was confined to the adrenal gland. As a model neoplastic cell originating from the cortex of the gland, we used a tumorigenic bovine adrenocortical cell line. When 3 × 105 cells were implanted orthotopically, by 16 days the cell mass had expanded and had invaded the cortex, whereas when 1 × 105 cells were used, tumor masses were much smaller. We therefore subsequently used 3 × 105 cells. When mice were sacrificed at different time points, we found that tumor growth resulting was progressive and that by 26 days cells there was extensive invasion into the cortex or almost complete replacement of the cortex with tumor cells. As a model neoplastic cell of neural crest origin, we used SK-N-AS human neuroblastoma cells. Orthotopic transplantation of 3 × 105 cells resulted in extensive invasion and destruction of the gland by 26 days. In summary, the present orthotopic model for intra-adrenal cell transplantation is valuable for investigation of growth of neoplastic cells of both cortical and medullary origin and should be useful for future studies of cortex–medulla interactions.
Espacios y viajes en la vida y en la obra de Carmen de Burgos Colombine
Authors: Núñez Rey Concepción
Published: July 2010

Carmen de Burgos (1867-1932) simbolizó en su tiempo el afán de progreso y de modernidad que alentó en España la corriente del Regeneracionismo. Desde su llegada a Madrid en 1901, procedente de su Almería natal, emprendió una carrera literaria y periodística jalonada de éxitos. Firmando como Colombine, se convirtió en la primera mujer redactora de un periódico (Diario Universal, 1903), y más tarde en nuestra primera corresponsal de guerra (Heraldo de Madrid, 1909). Acumuló una vasta y rica cultura, hecha de erudición y de experiencia del mundo, por el que viajó incansablemente, de los confines de Europa a los de América. En su obra narrativa, según veremos, encierran especial significado los espacios y los viajes. Su legado lo forma una extensísima labor literaria y erudita, cercana a los dos centenares de títulos: novelas largas y cortas, ensayos, biografías, libros de viajes, estudios literarios, traducciones, prólogos, libros de entrevistas..., junto a miles de artículos publicados en la prensa española y extranjera; la labor de una polígrafa. Fue mujer de pensamiento y de acción, que emprendió numerosas campañas periodísticas en favor de diversas causas sociales o políticas, sobre todo, en favor de la mujer. En nuestra historia literaria, Carmen de Burgos es la escritora que recorre las tendencias del primer tercio del siglo XX, de la Generación del 98 a las Vanguardias, nuestra Edad de Plata.
Los cuentos de Carmen de Burgos publicados en La Esfera. Ilustración Mundial (1914-1930)
Authors: Arbona Abascal Guadalupe
Published: July 2010

Este trabajo aborda el estudio de nueve cuentos de Carmen de Burgos, Colombine, publicados en la revista de arte La Esfera. Ilustración Mundial entre 1914 y 1930. Todos ellos tienen un valor descriptivo y se modulan con diferentes estilos a partir de la visión del espacio. Esto permite una clasificación según los rasgos predominantes de cada uno de ellos: los primeros se enmarcan en una tendencia al naturalismo poético, los segundos son representativos de un realismo-crítico y los terceros, más innovadores, se inscriben en un realismo humorístico-cosmopolita. En todos ellos se descubre un fondo de crítica social, que se ordena en una estructura y se revela como el significado de los textos.
Crítica y difusión literarias por Perico el de los palotes
Authors: Arroyo Almaraz Antonio
Published: July 2010

En este trabajo abordamos la labor de Carmen de Burgos como crítica y difusora de la literatura a través de la creación de una columna fija, con una fecha irregular de aparición, que apareció en el Heraldo de Madrid en 1917 y llegó hasta 1922, continuando con otro nombre; la denominó “Impresiones literarias. Al margen de los libros” e iba firmada con el seudónimo de Perico el de los palotes. También estudiamos la corriente crítica desde la que se guió en sus comentarios y valoraciones de las obras, destacando la significación que pudo tener para ella los planteamientos de Anatole France.
Heterointegration of Pt/Si/Ag Nanowire Photodiodes and Their Photocatalytic Properties
Authors: Qu Yongquan , Xue Teng , Zhong Xing , Lin Yung‐Chen , Liao Lei , Choi Jina , Duan Xiangfeng
Published: July 2010

Photocatalyst mediated photoelectrochemical processes can make use of the photogenerated electrons and holes onsite for photocatalytic redox reactions, and enable the harness and conversion of solar energy into chemical energy, in analogy to natural photosynthesis. However, the photocatalysts available to date are limited by either poor efficiency in the visible light range or insufficient photoelectrochemical stability. Here, it is shown that a Pt/Si/Ag nanowire heterostructure can be rationally synthesized to integrate a nanoscale metal‐semiconductor Schottky diode encased in a protective insulating shell with two exposed metal catalysts. The synthesis of Pt/Si/Ag nanowire diodes involves a scalable process including the formation of silicon nanowire array through wet chemical etching, electrodeposition of platinum and photoreduction of silver. The Pt/Si/Ag diodes exhibit highly efficient photocatalytic activity for a wide range of applications including environmental remediation and solar fuel production in the visible range. In this article, photodegradation of indigo carmine and 4‐nitrophenol are used to evaluate the photoactivity of Pt/Si/Ag diodes. The Pt/Si/Ag diodes also show high activity for photoconversion of formic acid into carbon dioxide and hydrogen.
A Fluorescence‐Activated Cell Sorter Analysis of the Relationship Between Protein Kinase G and Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase
Authors: John Theresa A. , Raj J. Usha
Published: July 2010

The process of regulation of NOS after production of nitric oxide is not yet delineated. Protein kinase G may exert a feedback regulation of this enzyme. We used diaminofluorescein assays to detect changes in basal nitric oxide production caused by modulators of protein kinase G activity in freshly isolated ovine lung microvascular endothelial cells. We also used fluorescence activated cell sorter analysis (FACS) to determine molecular and phosphorylation changes caused by PKG activation with 8‐Br‐cGMP. The PKG activator, 8‐Br‐cGMP (100 μM) produced a shift in the basal NO production curve downward. The inhibition began within 5 min and was sustained over 4.5 hr. The two protein kinase G inhibitors 100 μM Rp‐8‐Br‐PET‐cGMPS and 50 nM guanosine 3′‐5′‐cyclic monophosphoro thionate‐8‐Br‐Rp isomer Na salt and the cGMP inhibitor 4 μM Rp‐8‐pCPT‐cGMPS all enhanced NO production as seen by the upward shift in the basal NO curve. Conversely, the PKG activator drug, 100 μM guanosine‐3′‐5′‐cyclic monophosphate‐β‐phenyl‐1NF‐ethano‐8‐bromo sodium salt decreased NO production causing a downward shift in the basal curve. FACS analysis revealed that 5 μM 8‐Br‐cGMP in <5 min caused an increase in N‐terminal labeling of NOS and a decrease in both C‐terminal and serine 1177 labeling of NOS. 8‐Br‐cGMP appeared to increase PKG 1α and to decrease PKG 1β labeling. Changes in other phosphorylation sites were less consistent but overall mean channel fluorescence increased from 19.92 to 217.36 for serine 116 and decreased from 329.27 to 254.03 for threonine 495 phosphorylation. Data indicated that PKG caused both molecular and phosphorylation changes in NOS. Anat Rec 293:1755–1765, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hepatic Stellate Cells in Inflammation‐Fibrosis‐Carcinoma Axis
Authors: Wang Bin‐Bin , Cheng Jun‐Yao , Gao Hong‐Hao , Zhang Yang , Chen Zhi‐Nan , Bian Huijie
Published: July 2010

Almost 80% of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cases are associated with chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis resulting from inflammation and fibrosis. A three‐step process of “inflammation‐fibrosis‐carcinoma” is believed to be involved in hepatocarcinogenesis. The activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) may serve as an important mediator in the process of inflammation‐fibrosis‐carcinoma axis, even in tumor metastasis. A remarkable knowledge of activated HSCs in the pathology of HCC development is mostly focused on the liver fibrosis. The molecular links that connects inflammation and cancer in the activation of HSC are not completely known. This highlights urgent need to increase our understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms, by which activation of HSCs is involved in the hepatic inflammation, carcinogenesis, and metastasis. Anat Rec 293:1492–1496, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reconstructions of the Axial Muscle Insertions in the Occipital Region of Dinosaurs: Evaluations of Past Hypotheses on Marginocephalia and Tyrannosauridae Using the Extant Phylogenetic Bracket Approach
Authors: Tsuihiji Takanobu
Published: July 2010

The insertions of the cervical axial musculature on the occiput in marginocephalian and tyrannosaurid dinosaurs have been reconstructed in several studies with a view to their functional implications. Most of the past reconstructions on marginocephalians, however, relied on the anatomy of just one clade of reptiles, Lepidosauria, and lack phylogenetic justification. In this study, these past reconstructions were evaluated using the Extant Phylogenetic Bracket approach based on the anatomy of various extant diapsids. Many muscle insertions reconstructed in this study were substantially different from those in the past studies, demonstrating the importance of phylogenetically justified inferences based on the conditions of Aves and Crocodylia for reconstructing the anatomy of non‐avian dinosaurs. The present reconstructions show that axial muscle insertions were generally enlarged in derived marginocephalians, apparently correlated with expansion of their parietosquamosal shelf/frill. Several muscle insertions on the occiput in tyrannosaurids reconstructed in this study using the Extant Phylogenetic Bracket approach were also rather different from recent reconstructions based on the same, phylogenetic and parsimony‐based method. Such differences are mainly due to differences in initial identifications of muscle insertion areas or different hypotheses on muscle homologies in extant diapsids. This result emphasizes the importance of accurate and detailed observations on the anatomy of extant animals as the basis for paleobiological inferences such as anatomical reconstructions and functional analyses. Anat Rec 293:1360–1386, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Gene Mutations in Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Signaling Network and Their Association With Survival in Chinese Patients With Metastatic Colorectal Cancers
Authors: Liao Wangjun , Liao Yulin , Zhou Jeff X. , Xie Jianming , Chen Jinzhang , Huang Weizhen , Luo Rongcheng
Published: July 2010

Mutations of the KRAS, BRAF, and PIK3CA genes have been reported in colorectal cancer (CRC), associated with resistance to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)‐targeted monoclonal antibody therapy. These reports have mainly emanated from Western countries, however, and little is known about the mutation frequencies of these genes and their prognostic value in Asian patients with CRC. In this study, we analyzed the mutation frequencies of these three genes together with EGFR, and their association with overall survival in 61 Chinese patients with metastatic CRC (mCRC). Gene mutations were examined using pyrosequencing. Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis and multivariate Cox proportional hazard analysis were used to assess the prognostic significance of mutations of these four genes for patients' survival. We found that the mutations of KRAS, BRAF, PIK3CA, and EGFR were present in 12 (19.7%), 3 (4.9%), 3 (4.9%), and 0 patients, respectively. Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis showed that none of these gene mutations correlated significantly with patients' overall survival. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard analysis showed only treatment regimens and age to be independent prognostic factors. Our findings indicate that EGFR signaling network genes are frequently mutated in Chinese mCRC patients, and these gene mutations do not seem to be associated with patients' overall survival. Anat Rec 293:1506–1511, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Germline Cysts and the Formation of the Germinal Epithelium During the Female Gonadal Morphogenesis in Cyprinus carpio (Teleostei: Ostariophysi: Cypriniformes)
Authors: Mazzoni Talita Sarah , Grier Harry J. , Quagio‐Grassiotto Irani
Published: July 2010

The formation of both germline cysts and the germinal epithelium is described during the ovary development in Cyprinus carpio. As in the undifferentiated gonad of mammals, cords of PGCs become oogonia when they are surrounded by somatic cells. Ovarian differentiation is triggered when oogonia proliferate and enter meiosis, becoming oocytes. Proliferation of single oogonium results in clusters of interconnected oocytes, the germline cysts, that are encompassed by somatic prefollicle cells and form cell nests. Both PGCs and cell nests are delimited by a basement membrane. Ovarian follicles originate from the germline cysts, about the time of meiotic arrest, as prefollicle cells surround oocytes, individualizing them. They synthesize a basement membrane and an oocyte forms a follicle. With the formation of the stroma, unspecialized mesenchymal cells differentiate, and encompass each follicle, forming the theca. The follicle, basement membrane, and theca constitute the follicle complex. Along the ventral region of the differentiating ovary, the epithelium invaginates to form the ovigerous lamellae whose developing surface epithelium, the germinal epithelium, is composed of epithelial cells, germline cysts with oogonia, oocytes, and developing follicles. The germinal epithelium rests upon a basement membrane. The follicles complexes are connected to the germinal epithelium by a shared portion of basement membrane. In the differentiated ovary, germ cell proliferation in the epithelium forms nests in which there are the germline cysts. Germline cysts, groups of cells that form from a single founder cell and are joined by intercellular bridges, are conserved throughout the vertebrates, as is the germinal epithelium. Anat Rec 293:1581–1606, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sesamoids in Anurans: New Data, Old Issues
Authors: Ponssa María Laura , Goldberg Javier , Abdala Virginia
Published: July 2010

Sesamoids are skeletal elements rarely considered in studies of the vertebrate skeleton. In this work, we integrate ontogenetic data of anuran sesamoids in two species (Leptodactylus latinasus and Pleurodema cf. guayapae), the related structures (tendons, muscles, and joints) in L. latinasus, and a survey of sesamoid distribution in 185 anuran taxa. Our main goals are: (1) to contribute to the knowledge of the comparative anatomy of sesamoids in tetrapods; (2) to provide additional developmental evidence to interpret the ontogenetic pattern of sesamoids in anurans, as a key to elucidate that of tetrapods in general; (3) to provide data about tendon development in relation to sesamoid development in anurans for the first time; and (4) to propose a pattern of anuran sesamoid distribution. The homologies of sesamoids across tetrapods are discussed here. Observations were made in cleared and stained skeletal whole‐mounts. Fifty‐four sesamoids were found in anurans, thirty‐seven of which occur in L. latinasus. The traditional point of view of embedded sesamoids always resulting from biomechanical stimuli of a previously existing tendon is not sustained by our data. Many sesamoids arise before the differentiation of a tendinous tissue. Our survey results in a data set where the two big anuran clades, Hyloides (12 families) and Ranoides (14 families), were represented. The matrix has 38% missing entries. Most of the surveyed sesamoids have multiple origins, with only three of them (about 19%) having one origin. Anat Rec 293:1646–1668, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Versatile Benzimidazole/Triphenylamine Hybrids: Efficient Nondoped Deep‐Blue Electroluminescence and Good Host Materials for Phosphorescent Emitters
Authors: Gong Shaolong , Zhao Yongbiao , Wang Meng , Yang Chuluo , Zhong Cheng , Qin Jingui , Ma Dongge
Published: July 2010

Two new bipolar compounds, N,N,N′,N′‐tetraphenyl‐5′‐(1‐phenyl‐1H‐benzimidazol‐2‐yl)‐1,1′:3′,1′′‐terphenyl‐4,4′′‐diamine (1) and N,N,N′,N′‐tetraphenyl‐5′‐(1‐phenyl‐1H‐benzimidazol‐2‐yl)‐1,1′:3′,1′′‐terphenyl‐3,3′′‐diamine (2), were synthesized and characterized, and their thermal, photophysical, and electrochemical properties were investigated. Compounds 1 and 2 possess good thermal stability with high glass‐transition temperatures of 109–129 °C and thermal decomposition temperatures of 501–531 °C. The fluorescence quantum yield of 1 (0.52) is higher than that of 2 (0.16), which could be attributed to greater π conjugation between the donor and acceptor moieties. A nondoped deep‐blue fluorescent organic light‐emitting diode (OLED) using 1 as the blue emitter displays high performance, with a maximum current efficiency of 2.2 cd A−1 and a maximum external efficiency of 2.9 % at the CIE coordinates of (0.17, 0.07) that are very close to the National Television System Committee’s blue standard (0.15, 0.07). Electrophosphorescent devices using the two compounds as host materials for green and red phosphor emitters show high efficiencies. The best performance of a green phosphorescent device was achieved using 2 as the host, with a maximum current efficiency of 64.3 cd A−1 and a maximum power efficiency of 68.3 lm W−1; whereas the best performance of a red phosphorescent device was achieved using 1 as the host, with a maximum current efficiency of 11.5 cd A−1, and a maximum power efficiency of 9.8 lm W−1. The relationship between the molecular structures and optoelectronic properties are discussed.
Epigenetics and parental effects
Authors: Kappeler Laurent , Meaney Michael J.
Published: July 2010

Parental effects are a major source of phenotypic plasticity and may influence offspring phenotype in concert with environmental demands. Studies of “environmental epigenetics” suggest that (1) DNA methylation states are variable and that both demethylation and remethylation occur in post‐mitotic cells, and (2) that remodeling of DNA methylation can occur in response to environmentally driven intracellular signaling pathways. Studies of mother‐offspring interactions in rodents suggest that parental signals influence the DNA methylation, leading to stable changes in gene expression. If parental effects do indeed enhance the “match” between prevailing environmental demands and offspring phenotype, then the potential for variation in environmental conditions over time would suggest a mechanism that requires active maintenance across generations through parental signaling. We suggest that parental regulation of DNA methylation states is thus an ideal candidate mechanism for parental effects on phenotypic variation.
Translating Sleeping Beauty transposition into cellular therapies: Victories and challenges
Authors: Izsvák Zsuzsanna , Hackett Perry B. , Cooper Laurence J.N. , Ivics Zoltán
Published: July 2010

Recent results confirm that long‐term expression of therapeutic transgenes can be achieved by using a transposon‐based system in primary stem cells and in vivo. Transposable elements are natural DNA transfer vehicles that are capable of efficient genomic insertion. The latest generation, Sleeping Beauty transposon‐based hyperactive vector (SB100X), is able to address the basic problem of non‐viral approaches – that is, low efficiency of stable gene transfer. The combination of transposon‐based non‐viral gene transfer with the latest improvements of non‐viral delivery techniques could provide a long‐term therapeutic effect without compromising biosafety. The new challenges of pre‐clinical research will focus on further refinement of the technology in large animal models and improving the safety profile of SB vectors by target‐selected transgene integration into genomic “safe harbors.” The first clinical application of the SB system will help to validate the safety of this approach.
Returning to the stem state: Epigenetics of recapitulating pre‐differentiation chromatin structure
Authors: Shafa Mehdi , Krawetz Roman , Rancourt Derrick E.
Published: July 2010

Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) can self‐renew indefinitely and contribute to all tissue types of the adult organism. Stem cell‐based therapeutic approaches hold enormous promise for the cure of regenerative diseases. Over the last few years, several studies have attempted to decipher the important role of transcription factor networks and epigenetic regulatory signals in the maintenance of ESC pluripotency, but the exact underlying mechanisms have yet to be identified. Among the epigenetic factors, chromatin dynamics and structure have been found to contribute greatly to maintenance of pluripotency and regulation of differentiation in ESCs. These modifications include: covalent histone acetylation and methylation, histone bivalents and chromatin remodeling, and DNA methylation. Studies in ESCs have shown that genes associated with early development are arranged within a bivalent chromatin structure. This is thought to be a “poised yet repressed” situation, which can be activated upon differentiation. The breakthrough of iPSCs has opened a new era in stem cell biology. During reprogramming, the chromatin state of differentiated cells is reset to an embryonic form via a largely unknown mechanism. In this review, the fundamental impact of chromatin dynamic in ESCs as well as its critical role in the generation of iPSCs is discussed.
PdII‐Catalysed CH Functionalisation of Indoles and Pyrroles Assisted by the Removable N‐(2‐Pyridyl)sulfonyl Group: C2‐Alkenylation and Dehydrogenative Homocoupling
Authors: García‐Rubia Alfonso , Urones Beatriz , Gómez Arrayás Ramón , Carretero Juan Carlos
Published: July 2010

The easily installed and removed N‐(2‐pyridyl)sulfonyl group exerts complete C2 regiocontrol over the PdII‐catalysed CH alkenylation of indoles and pyrroles, affording the corresponding products in good isolated yields (typically ≥70 %). A remarkable feature of this catalyst system is that it tolerates a wide variety of substituted alkenes, including conjugated electron‐deficient alkenes, styrenes and 1,3‐dienes, as well as conjugated 1,1‐ and 1,2‐disubstituted olefins. The final reductive desulfonylation affords the C2‐substituted, free‐NH indoles and pyrroles in good yield. This N‐(2‐pyridyl)sulfonyl‐directing strategy has also been extended to the development of a protocol for the intermolecular, dehydrogenative homocoupling of indoles, providing 2,2′‐biindoles. Mechanistic work based upon reactions with isotopically labelled starting materials and competitive kinetic studies of electronically varied substrates suggests a chelation‐assisted electrophilic aromatic substitution palladation mechanism.
Heme Oxygenase Inhibition by 1‐Aryl‐2‐(1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl/1H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐1‐yl)ethanones and Their Derivatives
Authors: Roman Gheorghe , Vlahakis Jason Z. , Vukomanovic Dragic , Nakatsu Kanji , Szarek Walter A.
Published: July 2010

Previous studies by our research group have been concerned with the design of selective inhibitors of heme oxygenases (HO‐1 and HO‐2). The majority of these were based on a four‐carbon linkage of an azole, usually an imidazole, and an aromatic moiety. In the present study, we designed and synthesized a series of inhibition candidates containing a shorter linkage between these groups, specifically, a series of 1‐aryl‐2‐(1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl/1H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐1‐yl)ethanones and their derivatives. As regards HO‐1 inhibition, the aromatic moieties yielding best results were found to be halogen‐substituted residues such as 3‐bromophenyl, 4‐bromophenyl, and 3,4‐dichlorophenyl, or hydrocarbon residues such as 2‐naphthyl, 4‐biphenyl, 4‐benzylphenyl, and 4‐(2‐phenethyl)phenyl. Among the imidazole‐ketones, five (36–39, and44) were found to be very potent (IC50<5 μM) toward both isozymes. Relative to the imidazole‐ketones, the series of corresponding triazole‐ketones showed four compounds (54,55,61, and62) having a selectivity index >50 in favor of HO‐1. In the case of the azole‐dioxolanes, two of them (80and85), each possessing a 2‐naphthyl moiety, were found to be particularly potent and selective HO‐1 inhibitors. Three non‐carbonyl analogues (87,89, and91) of 1‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐2‐(1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl)ethanone were found to be good inhibitors of HO‐1. For the first time in our studies, two azole‐based inhibitors (37and39) were found to exhibit a modest selectivity index in favor of HO‐2. The present study has revealed additional candidates based on inhibition of heme oxygenases for potentially useful pharmacological and therapeutic applications.
The prognostic value of c‐Kit, K‐ras codon 12, and p53 codon 72 mutations in Egyptian patients with stage II colorectal cancer
Authors: El‐Serafi Mostafa M. , Bahnassy Abeer A. , Ali Nasr M. , Eid Salem M. , Kamel Mahmoud M. , Abdel‐Hamid Nayera A. , Zekri Abdel‐Rahman N.
Published: July 2010

BACKGROUND:

The prognosis for patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) depends mainly on standard clinicopathologic factors. However, patients with similar disease characteristics exhibit various outcomes, especially in stage II. Therefore, the identification of molecular prognostic markers is needed to predict patient outcomes.

METHODS:

The authors assessed the prognostic value of c‐Kit (also called cluster of differentiation 117 [CD117] or KIT), cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), tumor protein 53 (p53), and Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (K‐ras) aberrations in 90 patients with stage II CRC using immunohistochemistry and molecular techniques. The results were correlated with standard clinicopathologic prognostic factors, overall survival (OS), and disease‐free survival (DFS).

RESULTS:

COX2 and c‐Kit overexpression was detected in 54.6% and 59.3% of patients, respectively. Overexpression of p53 was detected in 47 patients, including 29 who had mutations, and a unique mutation pattern was detected with 3 hotspots at codons 72, 245, and 273. Overexpression of ras was detected in 44 patients, including 37 who had mutations. On multivariate analysis, c‐Kit overexpression, p53 codon 72 mutations, perforation, and performance status were independent prognostic factors for DFS (P = .054, P = .015, P < .0001, and P = .043, respectively); whereas codon 12 K‐ras mutation, performance status, and perforation were independent prognostic factors for OS (P = .033, P = .006, and P < .0001, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS:

The current results provide evidence for the prognostic value of c‐Kit overexpression in patients with stage II CRC. The high p53 mutation rate and the unique hotspot in codon 72 have not been reported previously in CRC. This may be related to environmental or racial features that are unique to the studied population. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Cabin1 expression suggests roles in neuronal development
Authors: Hammond Dena R. , Udvadia Ava J.
Published: July 2010

Nervous system assembly and function depends on precise regulation of developmental gene expression. Cabin1, an essential gene in developing mice, is enriched in regions of the developing zebrafish central nervous system (CNS). Cabin1 is a repressor of MEF2‐ (myocyte enhancer factor 2) and calcineurin‐mediated transcription in the immune system, but its function in the CNS during development is unknown. We identified Cabin1 from a library of genes enriched in developing neurons and determined the temporal and spatial expression of Cabin1 mRNA during CNS development. We found Cabin1 mRNA expression in the developing brain at times correlated with later aspects of neuronal differentiation. In some regions of the CNS Cabin1 expression overlaps with regions that also express proteins known to interact with Cabin1: MEF2 and/or calcineurin. We suggest that Cabin1 could act as a regulator of MEF2 and calcineurin activity in the developing nervous system, given their roles in neuronal differentiation and synaptic refinement. Developmental Dynamics 239:2443–2451, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Identification of downstream targets of the Bone Morphogenetic Protein pathway in the Drosophila nervous system
Authors: Kim Nam Chul , Marqués Guillermo
Published: July 2010

Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) signaling mediated by the receptor Wishful thinking (Wit) is essential for nervous system development in Drosophila. Mutants lacking wit function show defects in neuromuscular junction development and function, specification of neurosecretory phenotypes, and eclosion behavior that result in lethality. The ligand is Glass bottom boat, the Drosophila ortholog of mammalian BMP‐7, which acts as a retrograde signal through the Wit receptor. In order to identify transcriptional targets of the BMP pathway in the Drosophila nervous system, we have analyzed the gene expression profile of wit mutant larval central nervous system. Genes differentially expressed identified by microarray analysis have been verified by quantitative PCR and studied by in situ hybridization. Among the genes thus identified, we find solute transporters, neuropeptides, mitochondrial proteins, and novel genes. In addition, several genes are regulated by wit in an isoform‐specific manner that suggest regulation of alternative splicing by BMP signaling. Developmental Dynamics 239:2413–2425, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Characterization of the AP‐1 μ1A and μ1B adaptins in zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Zizioli Daniela , Forlanelli Elena , Guarienti Michela , Nicoli Stefania , Fanzani Alessandro , Bresciani Roberto , Borsani Giuseppe , Preti Augusto , Cotelli Franco , Schu Peter
Published: July 2010

Protein transport between the trans‐Golgi network and endosomes is mediated by transport vesicles formed by the adaptor‐protein complex AP‐1, consisting of the adaptins γ1, β1, μ1, σ1. Mammalia express μ1A ubiquitously and isoform μ1B in polarized epithelia. Mouse γ1 or μ1A 'knock out's revealed that AP‐1 is indispensable for embryonic development. We isolated μ1A and μ1B from Danio rerio. Analysis of μ1A and μ1B expression revealed tissue‐specific expression for either one during embryogenesis and in adult tissues in contrast to their expression in mammalia. μ1B transcript was detected in organs of endodermal derivation and “knock‐down” experiments gave rise to embryos defective in formation of intestine, liver, and pronephric ducts. Development ceased at 7–8 dpf. μ1B is not expressed in murine liver, indicating loss of μ1B expression and establishment of alternative sorting mechanisms during mammalian development. Developmental Dynamics 239:2404–2412, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Gata2is required for the development of inner ear semicircular ducts and the surrounding perilymphatic space
Authors: Haugas Maarja , Lilleväli Kersti , Hakanen Janne , Salminen Marjo
Published: July 2010

Gata2 has essential roles in the development of many organs. During mouse inner ear morphogenesis, it is expressed in otic vesicle and the surrounding periotic mesenchyme from early on, but no defects in the ear development ofGata2null mice have been observed before lethality at embryonic day (E) 10.5. Here, we used conditional gene targeting to reveal the role of Gata2 at later stages of inner ear development. We show that Gata2 is critically required from E14.5–E15.5 onward for vestibular morphogenesis. Without Gata2 the semicircular ducts fail to grow to their normal size and the surrounding mesenchymal cells are not removed properly to generate the perilymphatic space. Gata2 is the first factor known to control the clearing of the vestibular perilymphatic mesenchyme, but interestingly, it is not required for the formation of the cochlear perilymphatic areas, suggesting distinct molecular control for these processes. Developmental Dynamics 239:2452–2469, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Differential expression of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases 4 in developing rat lung
Authors: Lopez Emmanuel , Jarreau Pierre‐Henri , Zana Elodie , Franco‐Montoya Marie‐Laure , Schmitz Thomas , Evain‐Brion Danièle , Bourbon Jacques , Delacourt Christophe , Méhats Céline
Published: July 2010

During the perinatal period, lungs undergo changes to adapt to air breathing. The genes involved in these changes are developmentally regulated by various signaling pathways, including the cyclic nucleotide cAMP. As PDE4s are critical enzymes for regulation of cAMP levels, the objective of this study was to investigate PDE4's ontogeny in developing rat lung during the perinatal period. Pulmonary PDE4 activity, PDE4A‐D, PDE4B, and PDE4D variant expression levels, PDE4B and PDE4D protein levels, and PDE4D localization in distal lung were determined. PDE4 activity increased towards term, dropped at birth, and increased thereafter to reach a plateau at the end of the second week of life. PDE4B2 and PDE4D long forms demonstrated a pattern of expression that increased markedly at birth. After birth, PDE4D was expressed in alveolar epithelial and mesenchymal cells. The study, therefore, evidenced striking variations in expression patterns among the PDE4 family that differed from changes in global PDE4 activity. Developmental Dynamics 239:2470–2478, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.