bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Error-prone mammalian female meiosis from silencing the spindle assembly checkpoint without normal interkinetochore tension
Authors: Kolano Agnieszka , Brunet Stéphane , Silk Alain D. , Cleveland Don W. , Verlhac Marie-Hélène
Published: May 2012

It is well established that chromosome segregation in female meiosis I (MI) is error-prone. The acentrosomal meiotic spindle poles do not have centrioles and are not anchored to the cortex via astral microtubules. By Cre recombinase-mediated removal in oocytes of the microtubule binding site of nuclear mitotic apparatus protein (NuMA), which is implicated in anchoring microtubules at poles, we determine that without functional NuMA, microtubules lose connection to MI spindle poles, resulting in highly disorganized early spindle assembly. Subsequently, very long spindles form with hyperfocused poles. The kinetochores of homologs make attachments to microtubules in these spindles but with reduced tension between them and accompanied by alignment defects. Despite this, the spindle assembly checkpoint is normally silenced and the advance to anaphase I and first polar body extrusion takes place without delay. Females without functional NuMA in oocytes are sterile, producing aneuploid eggs with altered chromosome number. These findings establish that in mammalian MI, the spindle assembly checkpoint is unable to sustain meiotic arrest in the presence of one or few misaligned and/or misattached kinetochores with reduced interkinetochore tension, thereby offering an explanation for why MI in mammals is so error-prone.
Transcription factor IRF4 determines germinal center formation through follicular T-helper cell differentiation
Authors: Bollig Nadine , Brüstle Anne , Kellner Kerstin , Ackermann Waltraud , Abass Elfadil , Raifer Hartmann , Camara Bärbel , Brendel Cornelia , Giel Gavin , Bothur Evita , Huber Magdalena , Paul Christoph , Elli Alexandra , Kroczek Richard A. , Nurieva Roza , Dong Chen , Jacob Ralf , Mak Tak W. , Lohoff Michael
Published: May 2012

Follicular T-helper (TFH) cells cooperate with GL7+CD95+germinal center (GC) B cells to induce antibody maturation. Herein, we identify the transcription factor IRF4 as a T-cell intrinsic precondition for TFHcell differentiation and GC formation. After immunization with protein or infection with the protozoonLeishmania major, draining lymph nodes (LNs) of IFN-regulatory factor-4 (Irf4−/−) mice lacked GCs and GC B cells despite developing normal initial hyperplasia. GCs were also absent in Peyer’s patches of naiveIrf4−/−mice. Accordingly, CD4+T cells within the LNs and Peyer’s patches failed to express the TFHkey transcription factor B-cell lymphoma-6 and other TFH-related molecules. During chronic leishmaniasis, the drainingIrf4−/−LNs disappeared because of massive cell death. Adoptive transfer of WT CD4+T cells or fewL. majorprimed WT TFHcells reconstituted GC formation, GC B-cell differentiation, and LN cell survival. In support of a T-cell intrinsic IRF4 activity,Irf4−/−TFHcell differentiation was not rescued by close neighborhood to transferred WT TFHcells. Together with its known B lineage-specific roles during plasma cell maturation and class switch, our study places IRF4 in the center of antibody production toward T-cell–dependent antigens.
Movement of Radio‐Tagged Adult Pacific Lampreys during a Large‐Scale Fishway Velocity Experiment
Authors: Johnson Eric L. , Caudill Christopher C. , Keefer Matthew L. , Clabough Tami S. , Peery Christopher A. , Jepson Michael A. , Moser Mary L.
Published: May 2012

Optimization of fishways to pass multiple species is challenging because life history, swimming ability, and behavior often differ among species. For example, high fishway water velocities designed to attract adult Pacific salmon Oncorhynchus spp. at Columbia River dams inhibit fishway entrance and passage success of adult Pacific lampreys Lampetra tridentata, a species of conservation concern. We tested whether reduced water velocities (∼1.2 m/s, 0.15 m of head) at Bonneville Dam fishway openings improved entrance efficiency and other passage metrics for radio‐tagged Pacific lampreys compared with control velocities (>1.98 m/s, 0.46 m of head) and near‐zero (“standby”) velocities. Lamprey entrance efficiencies were significantly higher in the reduced‐velocity treatment (26–29%) than in the control (13–20%) or standby (5–9%) treatment. In some years, significantly more Pacific lampreys passed through fishway collection channels and transition pools and reached the fish ladder during reduced‐velocity treatment conditions, indicating that benefits extended beyond fishway entrances. However, overall passage efficiency at the dam was relatively unchanged, suggesting that additional passage bottlenecks for Pacific lampreys exist upstream from fishway entrances. The experiment demonstrated how operational changes can improve passage performance and how exploiting behavioral differences among species can improve multispecies management.
The development of social value orientation across different contexts
Authors: Li Jing , Zhu Liqi , Gummerum Michaela , Sun Yuli
Published: May 2012

This study aimed to explore Chinese children's social value orientation across different ages and contexts. Revised decomposed games were used to measure the social value orientation of 9‐, 11‐, and 14‐year‐old children and college students as an adult group. About half of them were assigned to the hypothetical context of “equal payment group,” providing equal compensation for participation in the study, and the others to the “real payment group,” who got payment according to their own choices in the games. Results showed that 9‐ and 11‐year‐old children's choices differed between the two contexts: They made more prosocial choices in the hypothetical context, and more competitive choices in the “real payment” context. The 14‐year‐olds’ and adults’ choices were not significantly different in the two contexts. These results may imply that by 14 years of age, children have stable social value orientation, and their behavior reflects this value.
Optimism as a predictor of the effects of laboratory‐induced stress on fears and hope
Authors: Kimhi Shaul , Eshel Yohanan , Shahar Eldad
Published: May 2012

The objective of the current study is to explore optimism as a predictor of personal and collective fear, as well as hope, following laboratory‐induced stress. Students (N = 107; 74 female, 33 male) were assigned randomly to either the experimental (stress—political violence video clip) or the control group (no‐stress—nature video clip). Questionnaires of fear and hope were administered immediately after the experiment (Time 1) and 3 weeks later (Time 2). Structural equation modeling indicated the following: (a) Optimism significantly predicted both fear and hope in the stress group at Time 1, but not in the no‐stress group. (b) Optimism predicted hope but not fear at Time 2 in the stress group. (c) Hope at Time 1 significantly predicted hope at Time 2, in both the stress and the no‐stress groups. (d) Gender did not predict significantly fear at Time 1 in the stress group, despite a significant difference between genders. This study supports previous studies indicating that optimism plays an important role in people's coping with stress. However, based on our research the data raise the question of whether optimism, by itself, or environmental stress, by itself, may accurately predict stress response.
Oxytocin increases willingness to socially share one's emotions
Authors: Lane Anthony , Luminet Olivier , Rimé Bernard , Gross James J. , de Timary Philippe , Mikolajczak Moïra
Published: May 2012

Oxytocin (OT) is a neuropeptide that is attracting growing attention from researchers interested in human emotional and social behavior. There is indeed increasing evidence that OT has a calming effect and that it facilitates pair‐bonding and social interactions. Some of OT's effects are thought to be direct, but it has been suggested that OT also may have indirect effects, mediated by changes in behavior. One potentially relevant behavioral change is an increased propensity for “emotional sharing” as this behavior, like OT, is known to have both calming and bonding effects. In this study, 60 healthy young adult men were randomly assigned to receive either intranasal placebo (PL; n = 30) or oxytocin (OT; n = 30). Participants were then instructed to retrieve a painful memory. Subsequently, OT and placebo participants’ willingness to disclose to another person event‐related facts (factual sharing) vs. event‐related emotions (emotional sharing) was evaluated. Whereas the two groups were equally willing to disclose event‐related facts, oxytocin was found to specifically increase the willingness to share event‐related emotions. This study provides the first evidence that OT increases people's willingness to share their emotions. Importantly, OT did not make people more talkative (word counts were comparable across the two groups) but instead increased the willingness to share the specific component that is responsible for the calming and bonding effects of social sharing: emotions. Findings suggest that OT may shape the form of social sharing so as to maximize its benefits. This might help explain the calming and bonding effects of OT.
It is our destiny to die: The effects of mortality salience and culture‐priming on fatalism and karma belief
Authors: Yen Chih‐Long
Published: May 2012

The current study explores whether Asians use culture‐specific belief systems to defend against their death anxiety. The effects of mortality salience (MS) and cultural priming on Taiwanese beliefs in fatalism and karma were investigated. Study 1 showed that people believe in fatalism and karma more following MS compared with the control condition. Study 2 found that the effect of MS on fatalism belief was stronger when Taiwanese were exposed to an Eastern cultural context than to a Western cultural context. However, a matched sample of Western participants did not show increased fatalism belief after either a West‐ or East‐prime task. The present research provides evidence that Asians may use some culture‐specific beliefs, particularly fatalism belief, to cope with their death awareness.
Seeing, Iranian Style: Women and Collective Vision in Abbas Kiarostami's Shirin
Authors: Saljoughi Sara
Published: May 2012

This paper examines the relationship between remediation and intertextuality in Abbas Kiarostami's Shirin (2008), arguing that the act of absorbing and transforming other texts and media within one film creates new conditions for collective vision within the post-revolutionary Iranian discourse of visuality. Focusing on the faces of 114 actresses as they watch a film adaptation of the story of “Khosrow and Shirin,” Kiarostami challenges the post-revolutionary modesty laws and their emphasis on not looking at women and at avoiding a spectator–image relationship based on the fulfillment of the desiring male gaze. By making women the spectators, the film suggests that there is no collective vision without women's vision.
Phosphorylation of Rab11-FIP2 regulates polarity in MDCK cells
Authors: Lapierre Lynne A. , Avant Kenya M. , Caldwell Cathy M. , Oztan Asli , Apodaca Gerard , Knowles Byron C. , Roland Joseph T. , Ducharme Nicole A. , Goldenring James R.
Published: May 2012

The Rab11 effector Rab11-family interacting protein 2 (Rab11-FIP2) regulates transcytosis through its interactions with Rab11a and myosin Vb. Previous studies implicated Rab11-FIP2 in the establishment of polarity in Madin–Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells through phosphorylation of Ser-227 by MARK2. Here we examine the dynamic role of Rab11-FIP2 phosphorylation on MDCK cell polarity. Endogenous Rab11-FIP2 phosphorylated on Ser-227 coalesces on vesicular plaques during the reestablishment of polarity after either monolayer wounding or calcium switch. Whereas expression of the nonphosphorylatable Rab11-FIP2(S227A) elicits a loss in lumen formation in MDCK cell cysts grown in Matrigel, the putative pseudophosphorylated Rab11-FIP2(S227E) mutant induces the formation of cysts with multiple lumens. On permeable filters, Rab11-FIP2(S227E)–expressing cells exhibit alterations in the composition of both the adherens and tight junctions. At the adherens junction, p120 catenin and K-cadherin are retained, whereas the majority of the E-cadherin is lost. Although ZO-1 is retained at the tight junction, occludin is lost and the claudin composition is altered. Of interest, the effects of Rab11-FIP2 on cellular polarity did not involve myosin Vb or Rab11a. These results indicate that Ser-227 phosphorylation of Rab11-FIP2 regulates the composition of both adherens and tight junctions and is intimately involved in the regulation of polarity in epithelial cells.
Local control of phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate signaling in the Golgi apparatus by Vps74 and Sac1 phosphoinositide phosphatase
Authors: Wood Christopher S. , Hung Chia-Sui , Huoh Yu-San , Mousley Carl J. , Stefan Christopher J. , Bankaitis Vytas , Ferguson Kathryn M. , Burd Christopher G.
Published: May 2012

In the Golgi apparatus, lipid homeostasis pathways are coordinated with the biogenesis of cargo transport vesicles by phosphatidylinositol 4-kinases (PI4Ks) that produce phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate (PtdIns4P), a signaling molecule that is recognized by downstream effector proteins. Quantitative analysis of the intra-Golgi distribution of a PtdIns4P reporter protein confirms that PtdIns4P is enriched on the trans-Golgi cisterna, but surprisingly, Vps74 (the orthologue of human GOLPH3), a PI4K effector required to maintain residence of a subset of Golgi proteins, is distributed with the opposite polarity, being most abundant on cis and medial cisternae. Vps74 binds directly to the catalytic domain of Sac1 (KD = 3.8 μM), the major PtdIns4P phosphatase in the cell, and PtdIns4P is elevated on medial Golgi cisternae in cells lacking Vps74 or Sac1, suggesting that Vps74 is a sensor of PtdIns4P level on medial Golgi cisternae that directs Sac1-mediated dephosphosphorylation of this pool of PtdIns4P. Consistent with the established role of Sac1 in the regulation of sphingolipid biosynthesis, complex sphingolipid homeostasis is perturbed in vps74Δ cells. Mutant cells lacking complex sphingolipid biosynthetic enzymes fail to properly maintain residence of a medial Golgi enzyme, and cells lacking Vps74 depend critically on complex sphingolipid biosynthesis for growth. The results establish additive roles of Vps74-mediated and sphingolipid-dependent sorting of Golgi residents.
Spindle checkpoint–independent inhibition of mitotic chromosome segregation byDrosophilaMps1
Authors: Althoff Friederike , Karess Roger E. , Lehner Christian F.
Published: May 2012

Monopolar spindle 1 (Mps1) is essential for the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC), which prevents anaphase onset in the presence of misaligned chromosomes. Moreover, Mps1 kinase contributes in a SAC-independent manner to the correction of erroneous initial attachments of chromosomes to the spindle. Our characterization of the Drosophila homologue reveals yet another SAC-independent role. As in yeast, modest overexpression of Drosophila Mps1 is sufficient to delay progression through mitosis during metaphase, even though chromosome congression and metaphase alignment do not appear to be affected. This delay in metaphase depends on the SAC component Mad2. Although Mps1 overexpression in mad2 mutants no longer causes a metaphase delay, it perturbs anaphase. Sister kinetochores barely move apart toward spindle poles. However, kinetochore movements can be restored experimentally by separase-independent resolution of sister chromatid cohesion. We propose therefore that Mps1 inhibits sister chromatid separation in a SAC-independent manner. Moreover, we report unexpected results concerning the requirement of Mps1 dimerization and kinase activity for its kinetochore localization in Drosophila. These findings further expand Mps1's significance for faithful mitotic chromosome segregation and emphasize the importance of its careful regulation.
Long‐term mortality with cardiac resynchronization therapy in the Cardiac Resynchronization‐Heart Failure (CARE‐HF) trial
Authors: Cleland John G.F. , Freemantle Nick , Erdmann Erland , Gras Daniel , Kappenberger Lukas , Tavazzi Luigi , Daubert Jean‐Claude
Published: May 2012

Aims

The Cardiac Resynchronization‐Heart Failure (CARE‐HF) study helped establish an important role for cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) in the management of selected patients with heart failure. We now report the long‐term outcome during and subsequent to the randomized trial.

Methods and results

Enrolment was completed in March 2003. After reporting the main study results in 2005, investigators were asked to inform patients of the results and implant a CRT device if still appropriate. Subsequently, investigators were asked to consent patients for long‐term follow‐up until 30 September 2009. Of 813 patients originally enrolled, 343 (42%) died prior to re‐consent, 111 patients (14%) were not or could not be contacted, 50 (6%) were alive but declined to participate, and 309 (38%) consented to long‐term follow‐up. Of patients originally assigned to the control group, > 95% of survivors had received CRT by the time of re‐consent. From the time of randomization, 222 patients originally assigned to pharmacological therapy and 192 originally assigned to CRT were known to have died. The hazard ratio for mortality in patients originally assigned to CRT compared with those originally assigned to the control group was 0.77 (95% confidence interval 0.63–0.93; P = 0.007). No subgroup interactions were observed.

Conclusion

The effect of CRT on mortality observed during the randomized CARE‐HF trial persisted during long‐term follow‐up. A high rate of CRT device implantation in the control group after completion of the randomized phase of the study may have prevented further divergence of the survival curves.
Impact of functional tricuspid regurgitation on heart failure and death in patients with functional mitral regurgitation and left ventricular dysfunction
Authors: Agricola Eustachio , Stella Stefano , Gullace Mariangela , Ingallina Giacomo , D'Amato Rossella , Slavich Massimo , Oppizzi Michele , Ancona Marco Bruno , Margonato Alberto
Published: May 2012

Aims

The prognostic role of tricuspid regurgitation (TR) associated with organic left‐sided valvular heart disease is well known. However, no data are available regarding the prognostic value of functional TR (FTR) in patients with functional mitral regurgitation (FMR) and left ventricular (LV) dysfunction. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prognostic role of FTR for occurrence of heart failure (HF) and mortality in patients with FMR.

Methods and results

We enrolled 373 consecutive patients (mean age 68 ±11 years) with LV dysfunction and at least mild FMR and with or without FTR, both quantitated by echocardiography. The median follow‐up was 32 months (range 1–120 months); 132 (35.4%) and 97 patients developed HF or died, respectively. The incidence of HF at 3 and 6 years was 36 ±2% and 55 ±4%, respectively. Moderate to severe FTR [hazard ratio (HR) 1.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.1–2.1, P = 0.01) was an independent determinant of HF. The incidence of HF was 41 ±5, 46 ±7, 57 ±7, and 65 ±8% for patients without, and with mild, moderate, and severe FTR respectively (P = 0.03). At 3 and 6 years the survival free of all‐cause mortality was 77.5 ±2% and 60 ±3%, respectively. Moderate to severe FTR (HR 1.6, 95% CI 1.2–2.1, P = 0.01) was an independent determinant of overall mortality. At 6 years, survival free of all‐cause mortality was 69 ±2.5, 67 ±2.1, 51 ±2.5, and 40 ±4.8% for patients without, and with mild, moderate, and severe FTR, respectively (P = 0.004).

Conclusions

Moderate or more FTR is independently associated with worse survival and a high incidence of HF episodes in patients with FMR.
Detection and Primary Care Management of Acute Stroke
Authors: Manapragada Sudharani , Wanklyn Peter , McDermott Sean
Published: May 2012

‘Time is brain’ is the basis of modern day hyperacute stroke treatment. It is important to recognize an acute stroke and arrange immediate admission to a hyperacute stroke unit (HASU) to facilitate investigation, stabilization and emergency therapy, such as thrombolysis with tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA).
An Appraisal of William Thomas Green Morton's Life as a Narcissistic Personality
Authors: Martin Ramon F. , Wasan Ajay D. , Desai Sukumar P.
Published: May 2012

The troubled life and death of William Thomas Green Morton has been described in several texts. His first public demonstration of ether anesthesia was the highpoint of a life that was less than successful in many of his endeavors. Close examination of this life reveals a pattern of behavior that progresses from narcissistic traits to narcissistic personality pathology. This retrospective psychiatric analysis of Morton's life was undertaken to theorize as to why Morton, after having successfully demonstrated ether anesthesia, did not continue to develop anesthesia as a clinical specialty. Biographies about Morton were used to explore details of his life. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders classification of narcissistic personality disorder was used to analyze his life. We conclude that Morton progressed from displaying narcissistic personality trait to disorder over his lifetime.
Bioinformatics and variability in drug response: a protein structural perspective
Authors: Lahti Jennifer L. , Tang Grace W. , Capriotti Emidio , Liu Tianyun , Altman Russ B.
Published: May 2012

Marketed drugs frequently perform worse in clinical practice than in the clinical trials on which their approval is based. Many therapeutic compounds are ineffective for a large subpopulation of patients to whom they are prescribed; worse, a significant fraction of patients experience adverse effects more severe than anticipated. The unacceptable risk–benefit profile for many drugs mandates a paradigm shift towards personalized medicine. However, prior to adoption of patient-specific approaches, it is useful to understand the molecular details underlying variable drug response among diverse patient populations. Over the past decade, progress in structural genomics led to an explosion of available three-dimensional structures of drug target proteins while efforts in pharmacogenetics offered insights into polymorphisms correlated with differential therapeutic outcomes. Together these advances provide the opportunity to examine how altered protein structures arising from genetic differences affect protein–drug interactions and, ultimately, drug response. In this review, we first summarize structural characteristics of protein targets and common mechanisms of drug interactions. Next, we describe the impact of coding mutations on protein structures and drug response. Finally, we highlight tools for analysing protein structures and protein–drug interactions and discuss their application for understanding altered drug responses associated with protein structural variants.
The chromosomal passenger complex controls the function of endosomal sorting complex required for transport-III Snf7 proteins during cytokinesis
Authors: Capalbo Luisa , Montembault Emilie , Takeda Tetsuya , Bassi Zuni I. , Glover David M. , D'Avino Pier Paolo
Published: May 2012

Cytokinesis controls the proper segregation of nuclear and cytoplasmic materials at the end of cell division. The chromosomal passenger complex (CPC) has been proposed to monitor the final separation of the two daughter cells at the end of cytokinesis in order to prevent cell abscission in the presence of DNA at the cleavage site, but the precise molecular basis for this is unclear. Recent studies indicate that abscission could be mediated by the assembly of filaments comprising components of the endosomal sorting complex required for transport-III (ESCRT-III). Here, we show that the CPC subunit Borealin interacts directly with the Snf7 components of ESCRT-III in both
Drosophila
and human cells. Moreover, we find that the CPC's catalytic subunit, Aurora B kinase, phosphorylates one of the three human Snf7 paralogues—CHMP4C—in its C-terminal tail, a region known to regulate its ability to form polymers and associate with membranes. Phosphorylation at these sites appears essential for CHMP4C function because their mutation leads to cytokinesis defects. We propose that CPC controls abscission timing through inhibition of ESCRT-III Snf7 polymerization and membrane association using two concurrent mechanisms: interaction of its Borealin component with Snf7 proteins and phosphorylation of CHMP4C by Aurora B.
Human cytomegalovirus UL97 kinase alters the accumulation of CDK1
Authors: Gill Rachel B. , James Scott H. , Prichard Mark N.
Published: May 2012

The UL97 protein kinase is a serine/threonine kinase expressed by human cytomegalovirus (CMV) that phosphorylates ganciclovir. An investigation of the subcellular localization of pUL97 in infected cells indicated that, early in infection, pUL97 localized to focal sites in the nucleus that transitioned to subnuclear compartments and eventually throughout the entire nucleus. When UL97 kinase activity was eliminated with a K355M mutation or pharmacologically inhibited with maribavir, the expansion and redistribution of pUL97 foci within the nucleus was delayed, nuclear reorganization did not occur and assembly complexes in the cytoplasm failed to form normally. As UL97 kinase and its homologues appear to be functionally related to CDK1, a known regulator of nuclear structural organization, the effects of the UL97 kinase on CDK1 were investigated. Expression of CDK1 in infected cells appeared to be induced by UL97 kinase activity at the level of transcription and was not tied to other virus life-cycle events, such as viral DNA replication or virion assembly. These results suggest that, in addition to phosphorylating CDK1 targets, the UL97 kinase modifies G2/M cell-cycle checkpoint regulators, specifically CDK1, to promote virus replication.
Characterization of human papillomavirus type 120: a novel betapapillomavirus with tropism for multiple anatomical niches
Authors: Bottalico Danielle , Chen Zigui , Kocjan Boštjan J. , Seme Katja , Poljak Mario , Burk Robert D.
Published: May 2012

Recent studies indicate that human papillomaviruses (HPVs) from the genera Betapapillomavirus and Gammapapillomavirus are abundant in the human oral cavity. We report the cloning and characterization of a 7304 bp HPV120 genome from the oral cavity that is related most closely to HPV23 (L1 ORF, 83.7 % similarity), clustering it in the genus Betapapillomavirus (β-PV). HPV120 contains five early and two late genes, but no E5 ORF. HPV120 was detected from heterogeneous human biological niches, including the oral cavity, eyebrow hairs, anal canal and penile, vulvar and perianal warts. Characterization of the clinical spectrum of HPV120 infections indicates a broader spectrum of epithelial tropism than appreciated previously for HPV types from the genus β-PV.
Influence of Implantable Hearing Aids and Neuroprosthesison Music Perception
Authors: Rahne Torsten , Böhme Lars , Götze Gerrit
Published: May 2012

The identification and discrimination of timbre are essential features of music perception. One dominating parameter within the multidimensional timbre space is the spectral shape of complex sounds. As hearing loss interferes with the perception and enjoyment of music, we approach the individual timbre discrimination skills in individuals with severe to profound hearing loss using a cochlear implant (CI) and normal hearing individuals using a bone-anchored hearing aid (Baha). With a recent developed behavioral test relying on synthetically sounds forming a spectral continuum, the timbre difference was changed adaptively to measure the individual just noticeable difference (JND) in a forced-choice paradigm. To explore the differences in timbre perception abilities caused by the hearing mode, the sound stimuli were varied in their fundamental frequency, thus generating different spectra which are not completely covered by a CI or Baha system. The resulting JNDs demonstrate differences in timbre perception between normal hearing individuals, Baha users, and CI users. Beside the physiological reasons, also technical limitations appear as the main contributing factors.
Hypertonic Saline in Treatment of Pulmonary Disease in Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Reeves Emer P. , Molloy Kevin , Pohl Kerstin , McElvaney Noel G.
Published: May 2012

The pathogenesis of lung disease in cystic fibrosis is characterised by decreased airway surface liquid volume and subsequent failure of normal mucociliary clearance. Mucus within the cystic fibrosis airways is enriched in negatively charged matrices composed of DNA released from colonizing bacteria or inflammatory cells, as well as F-actin and elevated concentrations of anionic glycosaminoglycans. Therapies acting against airway mucus in cystic fibrosis include aerosolized hypertonic saline. It has been shown that hypertonic saline possesses mucolytic properties and aids mucociliary clearance by restoring the liquid layer lining the airways. However, recent clinical and bench-top studies are beginning to broaden our view on the beneficial effects of hypertonic saline, which now extend to include anti-infective as well as anti-inflammatory properties. This review aims to discuss the described therapeutic benefits of hypertonic saline and specifically to identify novel models of hypertonic saline action independent of airway hydration.
Renewed Avenues through Exercise Muscle Contractility and Inflammatory Status
Authors: Zanchi Nelo Eidy , Almeida Felipe Natali , Lira Fábio Santos , Neto José César Rosa , Nicastro Humberto , da Luz Claudia Ribeiro , de Siqueira Filho Mário Alves , Felitti Vitor , Vainzof Mariz , Seelaender Marilia , Poortmans Jacques R. , Lancha Antonio Herbert
Published: May 2012

Physical inactivity leads to the accumulation of visceral fat and, consequently, to the activation of a network of inflammatory pathways which may promote development of insulin resistance, atherosclerosis, neurodegeneration, and tumour growth. These conditions belong to the “diseasome of physical inactivity”. In contrast, the protective effect of regular exercise against diseases associated with chronic inflammation may to some extent be ascribed to an anti-inflammatory effect. The so called “acute exercise threshold”, the complex mixture of several variables involved in exercise, such as type, volume, frequency, and intensity range is capable of inducing positive physiological adaptations and has been specifically addressed in the recent literature. The major concern is related to the level of the threshold: “exercise training shifts from a therapeutic adaptive intervention to one with potential pathological consequences”. Nonetheless, if the mechanical stimulus is too weak to disrupt cellular homeostasis, training adaptations will not occur. Answering these questions could present practical applications, especially during inflammatory diseases associated with detrimental muscle effects and could theoretically constitute a “new” therapeutic approach to treat/improve an inflammatory state. This paper aims to describe specific data from the literature regarding the effects of exercise on inflammatory diseases in order to promote a more sophisticated perspective on the anti-inflammatory effects of exercise.
Effects of Glucomannan on the Sacculus Rotundus and Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes in New Zealand Rabbits during Aflatoxicosis
Authors: Sur Emrah , Dönmez Hasan Hüseyin , Boydak Murat , Ataman Mehmet Bozkurt
Published: May 2012

This study was aimed to determine the effects of the glucomannan added to aflatoxin- (AF-) contaminated diet on the sacculus rotundus and peripheral blood lymphocytes of New Zealand rabbits by histological and enzyme histochemical methods. Twenty-four adult rabbits of both sexes were divided into four equal groups, namely, as control, glucomannan 0.2 g/day, AF 125 μg/kg/day, and glucomannan combined with AF. The animals in all groups were treated for 12 weeks by the above-mentioned diet. When compared to control, AF-treatment caused significant decrease in alpha-naphthyl acetate esterase- (ANAE-) positive peripheral blood lymphocyte (PBL) percentages. The addition of the glucomannan to AFcontaining diet recovered the adverse effects of AF on sacculus rotundus and increased the ANAE-positive PBL counts. These results suggested that glucomannan was effective against the negative effects of AF in rabbits.
Molecular Cloning ofphd1and Comparative Analysis ofphd1, 2, and3Expression inXenopus laevis
Authors: Han Dandan , Wen Luan , Chen Yonglong
Published: May 2012

Intensive gene targeting studies in mice have revealed that prolyl hydroxylase domain proteins (PHDs) play important roles in murine embryonic development; however, the expression patterns and function of these genes during embryogenesis of other vertebrates remain largely unknown. Here we report the molecular cloning ofphd1and systematic analysis ofphd1,phd2, andphd3expression in embryos as well as adult tissues ofXenopus laevis. All threephdsare maternally provided duringXenopusearly development. The spatial expression patterns ofphdsgenes inXenopusembryos appear to define a distinct synexpression group. Frogphd2andphd3showed complementary expression in adult tissues withphd2transcription levels being high in the eye, brain, and intestine, but low in the liver, pancreas, and kidney. On the contrary, expression levels ofphd3are high in the liver, pancreas, and kidney, but low in the eye, brain, and intestine. All threephdsare highly expressed in testes, ovary, gall bladder, and spleen. Among threephds,phd3showed strongest expression in heart.
Improving the S-Shape Solar Radiation Estimation Method for Supporting Crop Models
Authors: Fodor Nándor
Published: May 2012

In line with the critical comments formulated in relation to the S-shape global solar radiation estimation method, the original formula was improved via a 5-step procedure. The improved method was compared to four-reference methods on a large North-American database. According to the investigated error indicators, the final 7-parameter S-shape method has the same or even better estimation efficiency than the original formula. The improved formula is able to provide radiation estimates with a particularly low error pattern index () which is especially important concerning the usability of the estimated radiation values in crop models. Using site-specific calibration, the radiation estimates of the improved S-shape method caused an average of () relative error in the calculated biomass. Using only readily available site specific metadata the radiation estimates caused less than 5% relative error in the crop model calculations when they were used for locations in the middle, plain territories of the USA.
Experimental Hyperthyroidism Decreases Gene Expression and Serum Levels of Adipokines in Obesity
Authors: Luvizotto Renata de Azevedo Melo , Nascimento André Ferreira do , Síbio Maria Teresa de , Olímpio Regiane Marques Castro , Conde Sandro José , Lima-Leopoldo Ana Paula , Leopoldo André Soares , Cicogna Antonio Carlos , Nogueira Célia Regina
Published: May 2012

Aims. To analyze the influence of hyperthyroidism on the gene expression and serum concentration of leptin, resistin, and adiponectin in obese animals.Main Methods. MaleWistarrats were randomly divided into two groups: control (C)—fed with commercial chow ad libitum—and obese (OB)—fed with a hypercaloric diet. After group characterization, the OB rats continued receiving a hypercaloric diet and were randomized into two groups: obese animals (OB) and obese with 25 μg triiodothyronine (T3)/100 BW (OT). The T3dose was administered every day for the last 2 weeks of the study. After 30 weeks the animals were euthanized. Samples of blood and adipose tissue were collected for biochemical and hormonal analyses as well as gene expression of leptin, resistin, and adiponectin.Results. T3treatment was effective, increasing fT3levels and decreasing fT4and TSH serum concentration. Administration of T3promotes weight loss, decreases all fat deposits, and diminishes serum levels of leptin, resistin, and adiponectin by reducing their gene expression.Conclusions. Our results suggest that T3modulate serum and gene expression levels of leptin, resistin, and adiponectin in experimental model of obesity, providing new insights regarding the relationship between T3and adipokines in obesity.
Natural Interactions betweenS. haematobiumandS. guineensisin the Republic of Benin
Authors: Moné Hélène , Minguez Stéphanie , Ibikounlé Moudachirou , Allienne Jean-François , Massougbodji Achille , Mouahid Gabriel
Published: May 2012

Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease which affects millions of people around the world, particularly in Africa. In this continent, different species are able to interbreed, likeSchistosoma haematobiumandSchistosoma guineensis, two schistosome species infecting humans. The Republic of Benin is known to harborS. haematobium, but its geographical situation in between Nigeria, Mali, and Burkina Faso, whereS. guineensiswas found, raises the question about the possible presence ofS. haematobium/S. guineensishybrids in this country. We conducted morphological analyses on schistosome eggs and molecular analyses on schistosome larvae (high resolution melting (HRM) analysis and gene sequencing) in order to detect any natural interaction between these two species of schistosomes. The morphological results showed the presence of three egg morphotypes (S. haematobium, S. guineensis, and intermediate). Three genotypes were detected by ITS2 rDNA HRM analysis:S. haematobium, S. guineensis, and hybrid, and their percentages confirmed the results of the morphological analysis. However, sequencing of the CO1 mtDNA gene showed that all the samples from Benin belonged toS. haematobium. Our results provide the first evidence of introgression ofS. guineensisgenes inS. haematobiumin Benin.
Reproductive Ecology ofProchilodus brevisan Endemic Fish from the Semiarid Region of Brazil
Authors: Gurgel Liliane de Lima , Verani José Roberto , Chellappa Sathyabama
Published: May 2012

The commercially important migratory fishProchilodus brevisis from the Neotropical region, and understanding the reproductive ecology of this potamodromous fish is essential for its conservation and management. This study investigated the length-mass relationship, sex ratio, length at first gonadal maturity, gonadal development stages, gonadosomatic index, condition factor, and reproductive period ofP. brevis. Temporal distribution of rainfall, temperature, dissolved oxygen concentration, pH, and electrical conductivity of the water were related to the reproductive period of this fish. Rainfall seems to be the main environmental factor which modulates changes in limnological parameters and the timing of the spawning period of this fish.P. brevismigrates into lower reaches of the river to feed during the dry season and returns to the upper reaches during the rainy season to spawn. Inadequate facilities for migration create obstacles for spawning success of this ecologically important fish.
The Influence of Season on the Gonad Index and Biochemical Composition of the Sea UrchinParacentrotus lividusfrom the Golf of Tunis
Authors: Arafa Soumaya , Chouaibi Moncef , Sadok Saloua , El Abed Amor
Published: May 2012

Seasonal variation in the gonad weight and biochemical composition of the sea urchinParacentrotus lividusfrom the Golf of Tunis (Tunisia) were studied between September 2003 and August 2004. The highest gonad indices occurred in March (16.71%). The spawning period occurred between April and July and resulted in a fall in gonad indices to low level (7.12 ± 0.12%). Protein constituted the main component of the gonad, and lipid and carbohydrate were found at appreciable amounts. Consistent with the gonad cycle, sea urchin biochemical components showed clear seasonal variation with a significant decrease during the spawning period. The polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) group was found at high level (40% of the total fatty acids). Of the PUFA group, eicosapentaenoic (C20:5n−3) and eicosatetraenoic (C20:4n−3) were the most abundant gonadal lipids. The level of PUFA was significantly affected by temperature variation showing an increase during the cold months and a decrease in the hot months.
Psychological Profile in Children and Adolescents with Severe Course Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: Russo Emanuela , Trevisi E. , Zulian F. , Battaglia M. A. , Viel D. , Facchin D. , Chiusso A. , Martinuzzi A.
Published: May 2012

Objective. Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) is the most common chronic pediatric rheumatic disease. It is recognized that only reliance on clinical signs of disease outcome is inadequate for understanding the impact of illness and its treatment on child’s life and functioning. There is a need for a multidisciplinary and holistic approach to children with arthritis which considers both physical and emotional functioning. This study investigated the psychosocial functioning of children and adolescent with JIA and the disease-related changes in their family.Methods. The sample consisted of 33 hospitalized patients, aged 6–16 years. Both parents and the children were given a number of questionnaire to fill out. Clinical information was extracted from the interviews.Results. Self-reported psychological functioning (depression, anxiety, and behavior) was not different from the normal population; however significant psychological suffering was detected by the clinical interview.Conclusions. Children and adolescents with JIA do not show overt psychopathology by structured assessment; nevertheless a more clinically oriented holistic approach confirms JIA as a disrupting event causing relevant changes in the quality of life of the affected families.
Antinociceptive Activity of Ethanol Extract fromDuguetia chrysocarpaMaas (Annonaceae)
Authors: Almeida Jackson Roberto Guedes da Silva , Araújo Edigênia Cavalcante da Cruz , Ribeiro Luciano Augusto de Araújo , de Lima Julianeli Tolentino , Nunes Xirley Pereira , Carneiro Lúcio Ana Sílvia Suassuna , Agra Maria de Fátima , Barbosa Filho José Maria
Published: May 2012

The ethanol extract from the fruits ofDuguetia chrysocarpawas evaluated for its antinociceptive activity in chemical and thermal models of nociception in mice. The intraperitoneal administration of the ethanol extract (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg body weight) showed a dose-dependent inhibition of acetic-acid-induced abdominal writhes. The extract also produced a significant inhibition of both phases of the formalin test in all doses tested and increased the reaction time in hot-plate test at dose of 200 mg/kg. The data obtained suggest that the antinociceptive effect of the extract may be mediated via both peripheral and central mechanisms. The phytochemical investigation yielded the isolation of the benzenoid derivative 3-methoxy-4-ethoxy benzoic acid which is being reported for the first time in this genus.
Exercise and Physical Activity in the Therapy of Substance Use Disorders
Authors: Zschucke Elisabeth , Heinz Andreas , Ströhle Andreas
Published: May 2012

Exercise and physical activity are constantly gaining attention as adjuvant treatment for substance use disorders, supplementing classical pharmacological and psychotherapeutic approaches. The present work reviews studies addressing the therapeutic effects of exercise in alcohol abuse/dependence, nicotine abuse/dependence, and illicit drug abuse/dependence. In the field of smoking cessation, evidence is strong for exercise as an effective adjuvant treatment, whereas no generalizable and methodologically strong studies have been published for alcohol and drug treatment so far, allowing only preliminary conclusions about the effectiveness of exercise in these disorders. A couple of potential mechanisms are discussed, by which exercise may act as an effective treatment, as well as future directions for studies investigating exercise as a treatment strategy for substance use disorders.
Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Grassland Ecosystems of the Central Lithuania: Multi-Criteria Evaluation on a Basis of the ARAS Method
Authors: Balezentiene Ligita , Kusta Albinas
Published: May 2012

N2O, CH4, and CO2are potential greenhouse gas (GHG) contributing to climate change; therefore, solutions have to be sought to reduce their emission from agriculture. This work evaluates GHG emission from grasslands submitted to different mineral fertilizers during vegetation period (June–September) in two experimental sites, namely, seminatural grassland (8 treatments of mineral fertilizers) and cultural pasture (intensively managed) in the Training Farm of the Lithuanian University of Agriculture. Chamber method was applied for evaluation of GHG emissions on the field scale. As a result, soil chemical composition, compactness, temperature, and gravimetric moisture as well as biomass yield of fresh and dry biomass and botanical composition, were assessed during the research. Furthermore, a simulation of multi-criteria assessment of sustainable fertilizers management was carried out on a basis of ARAS method. The multicriteria analysis of different fertilizing regimes was based on a system of environmental and productivity indices. Consequently, agroecosystems of cultural pasture (N180P120K150) and seminatural grassland fertilizing rates N180P120K150and N60P40K50were evaluated as the most sustainable alternatives leading to reduction of emissions between biosphere-atmosphere and human-induced biogenic pollution in grassland ecosystems, thus contributing to improvement of countryside environment.
Current Status of Trace Metal Pollution in Soils Affected by Industrial Activities
Authors: Kabir Ehsanul , Ray Sharmila , Kim Ki-Hyun , Yoon Hye-On , Jeon Eui-Chan , Kim Yoon Shin , Cho Yong-Sung , Yun Seong-Taek , Brown Richard J. C.
Published: May 2012

There is a growing public concern over the potential accumulation of heavy metals in soil, owing to rapid industrial development. In an effort to describe the status of the pollutions of soil by industrial activities, relevant data sets reported by many studies were surveyed and reviewed. The results of our analysis indicate that soils were polluted most significantly by metals such as lead, zinc, copper, and cadmium. If the dominant species are evaluated by the highest mean concentration observed for different industry types, the results were grouped into Pb, Zn, Ni, Cu, Fe, and As in smelting and metal production industries, Mn and Cd in the textile industry, and Cr in the leather industry. In most cases, metal levels in the studied areas were found to exceed the common regulation guideline levels enforced by many countries. The geoaccumulation index (Igeo), calculated to estimate the enrichment of metal concentrations in soil, showed that the level of metal pollution in most surveyed areas is significant, especially for Pb and Cd. It is thus important to keep systematic and continuous monitoring of heavy metals and their derivatives to manage and suppress such pollution.