bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiolipin synthesis is required to support human cholesterol biosynthesis from palmitate upon serum removal in Hela cellsThis article is one of a selection of papers published in a special issue celebrating the 125th anniversary of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Manitoba.
Authors: Hauff Kristin D. , Choi Seok-Yong , Frohman Michael A. , Hatch Grant M.
Published: November 2009

We examined whether cardiolipin (CL) synthesis was required to support cholesterol (CH) production from palmitate in Hela cells. Knockdown of human cardiolipin synthase-1 (hCLS1) in Hela cells has been shown to reduce CL synthesis. Therefore Hela cells stably expressing shRNA for hCLS1 and mock control cells were incubated for 16 h with [14C(U)]palmitate bound to albumin (1:1 molar ratio) in the absence or presence of serum. Knockdown of hCLS1 in Hela cells resulted in a reduction in [14C(U)]palmitate incorporation into CL and CH. This reduction in [14C(U)]palmitate incorporation into CH was most pronounced during incubation under serum-free conditions. The reduction in [14C(U)]palmitate incorporation into CH was not due to alterations in total uptake of [14C(U)]palmitate into cells or altered palmitate metabolism, since [14C(U)]palmitate incorporation into phosphatidylcholine, the major [14C(U)]palmitate-containing lipid, and its immediate precursor, 1,2-diacyl-sn-glycerol, were unaffected by hCLS1 knockdown. In addition, knockdown of hCLS1 did not affect CH pool size, indicating that CH catabolism was unaltered. Hydroxymethylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase enzyme activity and its mRNA expression were reduced by knockdown of hCLS1 and this was most pronounced in Hela cells cultured under serum-free conditions. These data indicate that CL synthesis is required to support human de novo CH biosynthesis under conditions of increased demand for CH.
A concise description of cardioprotective strategies in doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicityThis article is one of a selection of papers published in a special issue celebrating the 125th anniversary of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Manitoba.
Authors: Lehenbauer Ludke Ana R. , Al-Shudiefat Abd Al-Rahman S. , Dhingra Sanjiv , Jassal Davinder S. , Singal Pawan K.
Published: November 2009

Doxorubicin (Dox) is frequently used as a frontline chemotherapeutic agent against a variety of cancers. Tremendous progress has been made on its optimal usage over the last 40 years. However, cardiotoxicity still remains a major concern. The great promise in this matter is that the mechanisms leading to antitumor activity appear to be different from those leading to Dox-induced cardiomyopathy. In this regard, various cardioprotective agents have been discussed. Attention should be drawn to probucol, a lipid-lowering agent with potent antioxidant properties, which provides complete protection against Dox-induced cardiomyopathy in rats without interfering with the antitumor properties of Dox in an experimental setting. Clinical trials employing Dox therapy in combination with probucol are needed to determine whether the outstanding findings in animal experiments can be extrapolated to clinical results. We have much further to go before the establishment of cancer therapies without any risk of cardiac side effects.
Protein kinase inhibition differentially regulates organic cation transportThis article is one of a selection of papers published in a special issue celebrating the 125th anniversary of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Manitoba.
Authors: Gerlyand Alexander M. , Sitar Daniel S.
Published: November 2009

Previous studies showed that amantadine transport increased while tetraethylammonium (TEA) transport decreased in kidney tissue from diabetic rats. Changes in transport activity were reversed by exogenous insulin. We hypothesized that this difference in transport regulation is due to differential regulation of different transport systems. Native human embryonic kidney cortex cells (HEK293 cell line) and rat organic cation transporter (rOCT)-transfected cells were used to test the hypothesis. In support of differential regulation, short-term glucose starvation stimulated amantadine transport and inhibited TEA transport, but the effect was bicarbonate-modulated only for amantadine. cAMP analogues inhibited TEA transport while stimulating amantadine transport. This effect was additive to the effect of insulin, and the presence of bicarbonate affected the extent of the change. Our findings indicated that regulation of rOCT 1 and 2 was mediated by transmembrane adenylyl cyclase, and regulation of amantadine transport was mediated by soluble adenylyl cyclase, suggesting that intracellular microdomains of cAMP may be important in determining overall cellular transport for organic cations. Soluble adenylyl cyclase activity is known to be modulated by bicarbonate and lactate. These observations support our hypothesis and reconcile our previous studies demonstrating increased transport affinity for amantadine in the presence of bicarbonate and decreased transport affinity in the presence of lactate.
Targeted production of proprotein convertase PC1 enhances mammary development and tumorigenesis in transgenic miceThis article is one of a selection of papers published in a special issue celebrating the 125th anniversary of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Manitoba.
Authors: Blanchard Anne , Iwasiow Barbara , Yarmill Alison , Fresnosa Agnes , Silha Josef , Myal Yvonne , Murphy Leigh C. , Chrétien Michel , Seidah Nabil , Shiu Robert P.C.
Published: November 2009

Elevated production of proprotein convertases (PCs), proteolytic enzymes that posttranslationally modify the biological activities of diverse groups of cellular proteins, is a common occurrence in human breast carcinomas. A transgenic mouse model was developed to gain insight into the significance of PC production in breast development and neoplasia. Mammary epithelium-specific and early expression of PC1 was targeted by the use of the mouse mammary tumor virus promoter/enhancer. Whole-mount examinations revealed that the mammary glands of 83-day-old virgin PC1 transgenic mice exhibited an accelerated lobuloalveolar development compared with that of age-matched wild-type mice (p < 0.001). This phenotypic change was accompanied by extensive alterations in gene expression assessed by gene expression microarray analyses. Pathway analysis of PC1-induced alterations in gene expression has revealed possible mechanism of action of PC1 in the mammary gland. PC1 expression alone, however, did not promote spontaneous mammary tumorigenesis in the transgenic mice. PC1 transgene expression resulted in a significantly higher incidence (p = 0.008) and accelerated growth (p = 0.023) of 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)-induced mammary adenocarcinomas. The present study therefore shows that PC1 expression can promote normal and neoplastic mammary development and growth and suggests that proprotein convertases may be important etiological factors in human breast neoplasia.
Tail suspension increases energy expenditure independently of the melanocortin system in miceThis article is one of a selection of papers published in a special issue celebrating the 125th anniversary of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Manitoba.
Authors: Lew Pei San , Wong Davie , Yamaguchi Takafumi , Leckstrom Arnold , Schwartz Jacquie , Dodd Janice G. , Mizuno Tooru M.
Published: November 2009

Space travelers experience anorexia and body weight loss in a microgravity environment, and microgravity-like situations cause changes in hypothalamic activity. Hypothalamic melanocortins play a critical role in the regulation of metabolism. Therefore, we hypothesized that microgravity affects metabolism through alterations in specific hypothalamic signaling pathways, including melanocortin signaling. To address this hypothesis, the microgravity-like situation was produced by an antiorthostatic tail suspension in wild-type and agouti mice, and the effect of tail suspension on energy expenditure and hypothalamic gene expression was examined. Energy expenditure was measured using indirect calorimetry before and during the tail suspension protocol. Hypothalamic tissues were collected for gene expression analysis at the end of the 3 h tail suspension period. Tail suspension significantly increased oxygen consumption, carbon dioxide production, and heat production in wild-type mice. Tail suspension-induced increases in energy expenditure were not attenuated in agouti mice. Although tail suspension did not alter hypothalamic proopiomelanocortin (POMC) and agouti-related protein (AGRP) mRNA levels, it significantly increased hypothalamic interleukin 6 (Il-6) mRNA levels. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that microgravity increases energy expenditure and suggest that these effects are mediated through hypothalamic signaling pathways that are independent of melanocortins, but possibly used by Il-6.
c-Ski, Smurf2, and Arkadia as regulators of TGF-β signaling: new targets for managing myofibroblast function and cardiac fibrosisThis article is one of a selection of papers published in a special issue celebrating the 125th anniversary of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Manitoba.
Authors: Cunnington Ryan H. , Nazari Mansoreh , Dixon Ian M.C.
Published: November 2009

Recent studies demonstrate the critical role of the extracellular matrix in the organization of parenchymal cells in the heart. Thus, an understanding of the modes of regulation of matrix production by cardiac myofibroblasts is essential. Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) signaling is transduced through the canonical Smad pathway, and the involvement of this pathway in matrix synthesis and other processes requires precise control. Inhibition of Smad signaling may be achieved at the receptor level through the targeting of the TGF-β type I receptors with an inhibitory Smad7 / Smurf2 complex, or at the transcriptional level through c-Ski / receptor-Smad / co-mediator Smad4 interactions. Conversely, Arkadia protein intensifies TGF-β-induced effects by marking c-Ski and inhibitory Smad7 for destruction. The study of these TGF-β mediators is essential for future treatment of fibrotic disease, and this review highlights recent relevant findings that may impact our understanding of cardiac fibrosis.
Generation and initial characterization of the prolactin-inducible protein (PIP) null mouse: accompanying global changes in gene expression in the submandibular glandThis article is one of a selection of papers published in a special issue celebrating the 125th anniversary of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Manitoba.
Authors: Blanchard A. , Nistor A. , Castaneda F.E. , Martin D. , Hicks G.G. , Amara F. , Shiu R.P.C. , Myal Y.
Published: November 2009

The human prolactin-inducible protein / gross cystic disease fluid protein-15 (hPIP/GCDFP-15) is a secretory glycoprotein found primarily in apocrine tissues including the breast and salivary glands. With largely unknown functions, PIP has been implicated in breast cancer and metastasis, host defense processes and T lymphocyte apoptosis. To begin to address PIP function in vivo, we generated the PIP null mouse (Pip−/−mouse). Additionally, to determine the effect of the loss of PIP on gene expression and to gain insight into some of the molecular mechanisms underlying PIP function, microarray analysis of the submandibular gland was also undertaken. Pip−/−mice developed normally with no overt differences in behaviour or gross morphology and were fertile. However, histological examination of 3-month-old Pip−/−mice sometimes showed enlarged submandibular lymph nodes, lymphocytic aggregations within the prostate lobes, and enlarged medulla in the thymus. Functional analysis of gene expression revealed sets of multiple differentially expressed genes associated with cell death and survival, lipid metabolism, inflammation, immune disease, and cancer, as a consequence of mPIP abrogation. Taken together, these studies lend support to an immunomodulatory role for PIP in vivo and provide further insights into potentially novel signaling pathways and regulatory networks for PIP.
Obesity, syndrome X, and diabetes: the role of HISS-dependent insulin resistance altered by sucrose, an antioxidant cocktail, and ageThis article is one of a selection of papers published in a special issue celebrating the 125th anniversary of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Manitoba.
Authors: Ming Zhi , Legare Dallas J. , Lautt W. Wayne
Published: November 2009

Absence of meal-induced insulin sensitization (AMIS) results in a predictable progression of dysfunctions, including postprandial hyperglycemia, compensatory hyperinsulinemia, resultant hyperlipidemia, increased oxidative stress, and obesity, progressing to syndrome X and diabetes. To test the ‘AMIS syndrome’ hypothesis we used 3 known means of producing graded and progressive changes in meal-induced insulin sensitization in rats. We used an aging model (9, 26, and 52 weeks), associated with a slow development of AMIS; a low-dose sucrose supplement model to accelerate the development of AMIS; and an antioxidant cocktail (S-adenosylmethionine, vitamin E, and vitamin C) to protect against the effect of the sucrose on meal-induced insulin sensitization. Adiposity was assessed from weighed regional fat masses and bioelectrical impedance. AMIS developed with age, was increased by sucrose supplementation, and was inhibited by the antioxidant cocktail. AMIS correlated with postprandial hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, hyperlipidemia, and with adiposity (r2 = 0.7–0.8) regardless of age or nutrient status. The range of degrees of AMIS, established over time with these models, afforded the tool with which to test the AMIS syndrome and further the argument that AMIS is the first metabolic defect that cumulatively leads to a predictable series of homeostatic disturbances and dysfunctions, including obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Neuregulin β1 enhances peak glutamate-induced intracellular calcium levels through endoplasmic reticulum calcium release in cultured hippocampal neuronsThis article is one of a selection of papers published in a special issue celebrating the 125th anniversary of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Manitoba.
Authors: Schapansky Jason , Morissette Marc , Odero Gary , Albensi Benedict , Glazner Gordon
Published: November 2009

Modulation of intracellular free calcium levels is the primary second messenger system of the neuronal glutamatergic system, playing a role in regulation of all major cellular processes. The protein neuregulin (NRG) β1 acts as an extracellular signaling ligand in neurons, rapidly regulating currents through ionotropic glutamate receptors. The effect NRG may have on glutamate-induced changes in intracellular free calcium concentrations has not been examined, however. In this study, cultured embryonic rat hippocampal neurons were treated with NRGβ1 to determine a possible effect on glutamate-induced intracellular calcium levels. Long-term (24 h), but not short-term (1 h), incubation with NRGβ1 resulted in a significantly greater glutamate-mediated acute peak elevation of intracellular calcium levels than occurred in vehicle-treated neurons. Long-term NRGβ1 incubation significantly enhanced calcium increase induced by specific stimulation of metabotropic glutamate receptors, but did not significantly alter the N-methyl d-aspartate (NMDA)- or KCl-induced calcium increase and paradoxically decreased the effect of α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) treatment on intracellular calcium. Metabotropic glutamate receptors cause increased intracellular free calcium via release of calcium from intracellular stores; thus this system was examined in more detail. NRGβ1 treatment significantly (greater than 2-fold) enhanced calcium release from endoplasmic reticulum stores after stimulation of ryanodine receptors with caffeine, but did not significantly increase calcium release from endoplasmic reticulum mediated by inositol trisphosphate (IP3) receptors. In addition, ryanodine receptor inhibition with ruthenium red prevented the glutamate-induced increase in intracellular calcium levels in NRGβ1-treated neurons. These data show that long-term NRGβ1 treatment can enhance glutamate-induced peak intracellular calcium levels through metabotropic glutamate receptor activation by increasing endoplasmic reticulum calcium release through ryanodine receptors.
A model to predict fasting capacities and utilization of body energy stores in weaned Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus) during periods of reduced prey availability
Authors: Noren D. P. , Rea L. D. , Loughlin T. R.
Published: November 2009

The population decline of Steller sea lions ( Eumetopias jubatus (Schreber, 1776)) may be linked to a decline in juvenile survivorship. Limitations in prey availability may contribute to the decline, thus it is important to understand fasting capacities of Steller sea lions. For most mammals, fat catabolism is the preferred energetic pathway to ensure that protein is spared. However, marine mammals also have a conflicting requirement to conserve fat because the main site of fat storage is the blubber layer, which is also their primary thermal barrier when at sea. We developed a dynamic state variable model to demonstrate how protein and fat reserve utilization and maximum fasting duration are influenced by body condition and time spent foraging. This model was parameterized with respect to conditions faced by juvenile and subadult Steller sea lions foraging unsuccessfully during a period of reduced prey availability. The model accurately predicted changes in fat and protein mass of juvenile and subadult Steller sea lions fasting in captivity. Furthermore, the model demonstrated that body lipid content, body mass, and the proportion of time spent in water influence energy reserve catabolism and maximum fasting durations. Consequently, small, lean individuals are particularly susceptible to reductions in prey availability.
Diet of spotted bats (Euderma maculatum) in Arizona as indicated by fecal analysis and stable isotopes
Authors: Painter M. L. , Chambers C. L. , Siders M. , Doucett R. R. , Whitaker, Jr. J. O. , Phillips D. L.
Published: November 2009

We assessed diet of spotted bats ( Euderma maculatum (J.A. Allen, 1891)) by visual analysis of bat feces and stable carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) isotope analysis of bat feces, wing, hair, and insect prey. We collected 33 fecal samples from spotted bats and trapped 3755 insects where bats foraged. Lepidopterans averaged 99.6% of feces by volume; other insects were not a major component of diet. The δ13C and δ15N values of bat feces were similar to those of moths from families Noctuidae (N), Lasiocampidae (L), and Geometridae (G), but differed from Arctiidae (A) and Sphingidae (S). We used a mixing model to reconstruct diet; three families (N, L, G) represented the majority (88%–100%) of the diet with A + S representing 0%–12%. Although we compared δ13C and δ15N values of wing, hair, and feces of spotted bats, feces best represented recent diet; wing and hair were more enriched than feces by 3‰ and 6‰, respectively. This pattern was consistent with that reported for other bat species. We suggest that spotted bats persist across a wide latitudinal gradient partly because they can forage on a variety of noctuid, geometrid, and lasiocampid moths. Using visual fecal inspection with stable isotope analysis provided information on families of moths consumed by an uncommon bat species.
Seasonal movements and home ranges of white-tailed deer in north-central South Dakota
Authors: Grovenburg T. W. , Jenks J. A. , Klaver R. W. , Swanson C. C. , Jacques C. N. , Todey D.
Published: November 2009

Knowledge of movement patterns of white-tailed deer ( Odocoileus virginianus (Zimmermann, 1780)) inhabiting landscapes intensively modified by agricultural systems is important to the present and future understanding of deer ecology. Little information exists regarding daily and seasonal movements of white-tailed deer in north-central South Dakota. Therefore, our goal was to determine movement patterns and home-range use of female white-tailed deer in north-central South Dakota. From January 2005 to January 2007, 29 adult (>18 months) and 13 yearling (8–18 months) white-tailed deer were monitored for movement using radiotelemetry. We collected 2822 locations, calculated 76 home ranges, and documented 50 seasonal movements. Mean migration distance between summer and winter home ranges was 19.4 km (SE = 2.0 km). Mean 95% home-range size was 10.2 km2(SE = 1.2 km2, n = 27) during winter and 9.2 km2(SE = 1.0 km2, n = 49) during summer. Ambient temperature appeared to be a primary cause of seasonal migration. Additionally, movements exhibited by white-tailed deer in north-central South Dakota were influenced by a highly fragmented landscape dominated by row crops and pasture or grassland.
Abundance, social organization, and population trend of the arctic wolf in north and east Greenland during 1978–1998
Authors: Marquard-Petersen Ulf
Published: November 2009

Abundance, social organization, and population trend of the arctic wolf ( Canis lupus arctos Pocock, 1935) in north and east Greenland, 1978–1998, were determined from 353 sightings of 552 wolves by the Danish military, by expeditions, and from 8 consecutive years (1991–1998) of fieldwork. Available evidence suggested that this wolf population consisted of up to 55 wolves in favorable times. Six core packs were identified. Maximum wolf density was estimated at 1 wolf/3745 km2, which appears to be the lowest wolf density reported, representing 3.5% of maximum late winter wolf density in Denali Park, Alaska, and <1% of that in north-central Minnesota. Social organization was characterized by a preponderance of pairs and lone wolves. Mean early winter pack size was 2.6 wolves/pack; the lowest reported for wolves in North America. Packs >4 wolves were rare, constituting 3.8% of early winter sightings. The population increased, on average, 8% per year during the period 1978–1991 and appeared to reach a peak in 1991–1992. These depressed population characteristics are likely the consequence of the lowest ungulate prey availability in North America, e.g., 2.6% of that of wolves in northeastern Minnesota.
Sperm traits in Chinook salmon depend upon activation medium: implications for studies of sperm competition in fishes
Authors: Rosengrave P. , Montgomerie R. , Metcalf V. J. , McBride K. , Gemmell N. J.
Published: November 2009

Sperm traits of externally fertilizing fish species are typically measured in fresh (or salt) water, even though the spawning environment of their ova contains ovarian fluid. In this study, we measured sperm traits of Chinook salmon ( Oncorhynchus tshawytscha (Walbaum in Artedi, 1792)) in both fresh water and dilute ovarian fluid at 10 and 20 s postactivation, using a computer-assisted sperm analysis system. Spermatozoa swam faster, and had both higher percent motility and a straighter path trajectory for a longer period of forward motility when activated in ovarian fluid compared with activation in fresh water. Comparing sperm activity of 10 males in water versus ovarian fluid, we found a weak but significant correlation for sperm swimming speed at 10 s postactivation (r = 0.34, p = 0.01), but not for any other sperm traits measured. Most important, across males, mean sperm swimming speed in water accounted for <10% of the observed variation in mean sperm swimming speed in ovarian fluid. Thus, we argue that sperm traits measured in fresh water are not particularly relevant to those same traits during normal spawning in this species. We suggest that sperm performance measured in fresh water should be used with caution when comparing the potential for individual males to fertilize ova, especially in studies of sperm competition in externally fertilizing species.
A keystone predator at risk? Density and distribution of the spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta) in the Etosha National Park, Namibia
Authors: Trinkel Martina
Published: November 2009

For wildlife management and conservation biology, it is important to be able to estimate the status and distribution of animals and to monitor their population trends. In the Etosha National Park, Namibia, there is a lack of knowledge about numbers and distribution of spotted hyenas ( Crocuta crocuta (Erxleben, 1777)) and factors regulating their population. To estimate hyena density and distribution, tape-recorded vocalizations (call-ups) were performed to attract hyenas in the central and eastern parts of Etosha. Eighty-five adult and subadult hyenas responded to the calls, with most of them responding in an area with high density of migratory ungulates, principally springbok ( Antidorcas marsupialis (Zimmermann, 1780)), wildebeest ( Connochaetes taurinus (Burchell, 1823)), and Burchell’s zebra ( Equus burchelli (Gray, 1824)). These migratory species are the main prey of spotted hyenas in Etosha. There was a strong spatial relationship between hyena density and migratory prey biomass. Based on this mathematical correlation, I estimated 203 ± 79 hyenas, i.e., 2.7 ± 1.1 hyenas/100 km2, in the central and eastern parts of Etosha. Applying this correlation to the western part of the park, it was possible to estimate 339 ± 176 spotted hyenas, corresponding to an overall density of 2.1 ± 1.0 hyenas/100 km2, in the whole Etosha National Park.
Internal fertilization in the salp Thalia democratica
Authors: Boldrin F. , Martinucci G. , Holland L. Z. , Miller R. L. , Burighel P.
Published: November 2009

Among tunicates, gamete morphology and sperm–egg interactions have been extensively investigated in ascidians, and to a lesser extent in appendicularians and thaliaceans. Sperm–egg interaction has been studied in only one salp, Pegea socia (Bosc, 1802). To determine if the pattern of internal fertilization of P. socia is generally applicable to salps, we performed an ultrastructural study on blastozooids of Thalia democratica (Forsskål, 1775). The ovary, located in the mantle near the gut, consists of a single oocyte connected to the atrial chamber wall by a “fertilization duct”, resembling a stack of single cells without a lumen. The flagellate sperm has a long corkscrew-like head with the single mitochondrion twisted around the nucleus. Fertilization is internal, and sperm actively penetrate the atrial wall and bore through the cells of the fertilization duct. During this process, the fertilization duct shortens as the cells move apart, one to one side and the next to the other, and rejoin to form a central lumen, which contains many sperm. At the same time a few sperm reach the periovular space for fertilizing the oocyte. Comparisons with P. socia indicate that this singular mode of internal fertilization with a complex corkscrew sperm actively penetrating the fertilization duct cells, probably evolved in the salp ancestor and has been modified to some extent in various genera.
The cold shoulder: free-ranging snowshoe hares maintain a low cost of living in cold climates
Authors: Sheriff Michael J. , Speakman J. R. , Kuchel L. , Boutin S. , Humphries M. M.
Published: November 2009

The hypothesis that cold air temperatures (Ta) constrain the metabolic diversity of high-latitude endotherms is based on the observation among birds and mammals that mean field metabolic rate (FMR) increases, whereas the variability of FMR decreases, from the warm tropics to the cold poles. However, there is a paucity of FMR measurements from above 60° latitude and below 0 °C. We measured the daily energy expenditure of a high-latitude population of free-ranging snowshoe hares ( Lepus americanus Erxleben, 1777) in Yukon, Canada, in winter (Ta-mean= –16.4 °C) and in autumn (Ta-mean = 0.5 °C). Doubly labelled water measures of FMR were approximately 20% lower in winter than in autumn, and were a similar, low multiple of resting metabolic rate in both seasons (2.04 and 1.94, respectively). The mass-corrected FMR of snowshoe hares in winter was only half the value predicted by extrapolating the relationship between FMR and Ta > 0 to –16.4 °C. These results contribute to an emerging pattern of a reversal in the relationship between FMR and Tain free-ranging mammals from negative above 0 °C to positive below 0 °C. We refer to the positive, low Taportion of this relationship as the cold shoulder, and suggest that it may reflect the general necessity for free-ranging mammals to use behavioural and (or) physiological means to conserve energy during long winters when cold conditions coincide with resource scarcity.
Computed Tomography Scan and ICD Interaction
Authors: Porres Jose M. , Cerezuela Jose L. , Luque Oscar , Marco Pilar
Published: November 2009

Although it has been considered a safe procedure, computed tomography scanning uses high doses of radiation and can cause malfunctioning in those patients with ICD when the radiation is directly incident on the device. We present a case of ventricular oversensing during a thoracic computed tomography.
Gene Expression Divergence and Evolutionary Analysis of the Drosomycin Gene Family in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Deng Xiao-Juan , Yang Wan-Ying , Huang Ya-Dong , Cao Yang , Wen Shuo-Yang , Xia Qing-You , Xu Peilin
Published: November 2009

Drosomycin (Drs) encoding an inducible 44‐residue antifungal peptide is clustered
with six additional genes, Dro1, Dro2, Dro3, Dro4, Dro5, and Dro6, forming a
multigene family on the 3L chromosome arm in Drosophila melanogaster. To get
further insight into the regulation of each member of the drosomycin gene family,
here we investigated gene expression patterns of this family by either microbe‐free
injury or microbial challenges using real time RT‐PCR. The results indicated that
among the seven drosomycin genes, Drs, Dro2, Dro3, Dro4, and Dro5 showed
constitutive expressions. Three out of five, Dro2, Dro3, and Dro5, were able to be
upregulated by simple injury. Interestingly, Drs is an only gene strongly upregulated
when Drosophila was infected with microbes. In contrast to these five genes, Dro1
and Dro6 were not transcribed at all in either noninfected or infected flies.
Furthermore, by 5′ rapid amplification of cDNA ends, two transcription start sites
were identified in Drs and Dro2, and one in Dro3, Dro4, and Dro5. In addition, NF‐κB
binding sites were found in promoter regions of Drs, Dro2, Dro3, and Dro5, indicating
the importance of NF‐κB binding sites for the inducibility of drosomycin genes. Based
on the analyses of flanking sequences of each gene in D. melanogaster and
phylogenetic relationship of drosomycins in D. melanogaster species‐group, we
concluded that gene duplications were involved in the formation of the drosomycin
gene family. The possible evolutionary fates of drosomycin genes were discussed
according to the combining analysis of gene expression pattern, gene structure, and
functional divergence of these genes.
Comparison of Periodic Flow Fields in a Radial Pump among CFD, PIV, and LDV Results
Authors: Feng Jianjun , Benra F.-K. , Dohmen H. J.
Published: November 2009

The interaction between the impeller and the diffuser is considered to have a strong influence on the unsteady flow in radial pumps. In this paper, the unsteady flow in a low specific speed radial diffuser pump has been simulated by the CFD code CFX‐10. Both Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) and Laser Doppler Velocimetry (LDV) measurements have been conducted to validate the CFD results. Both the phase‐averaged velocity fields and the turbulence fields obtained from different methods are presented and compared, in order to enhance the understanding of the unsteady flow caused by the relative motion between the rotating impeller and the stationary diffuser. The comparison of the results shows that PIV and LDV give nearly the same phase‐averaged velocity fields, but LDV predicts the turbulence much clearer and better than PIV. CFD underestimates the turbulence level in the whole region compared with PIV and LDV but gives the same trend.
Human Cystic Echinococcosis: Old Problems and New Perspectives
Authors: Siracusano Alessandra , Teggi Antonella , Ortona Elena
Published: November 2009

Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a widespread chronic endemic helminthic disease caused by infection with metacestodes of the tapewormEchinococcus granulosus. CE affects humans and has a worldwide prevalence of approximately six million. In this review, we discuss current findings in diagnosis and clinical management of CE and new concepts relating toE. granulosusmolecules that directly modulate the host immune responses favouring a strong anti-inflammatory response and perpetuating parasite survival in the host. New insights into the molecular biology ofE. granulosuswill improve considerably our knowledge of the disease and will provide new potential therapeutic applications to treat or prevent inflammatory immune-mediated disease.
Expression of Semaphorin 3F and Its Receptors in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer, Fallopian Tubes, and Secondary Müllerian Tissues
Authors: Drenberg Christina D. , Livingston Sandra , Chen Ren , Kruk Patricia A. , Nicosia Santo V.
Published: November 2009

While semaphorins and their receptors appear to play a role in tumor carcinogenesis, little is known about the role of semaphorin 3F (S3F) in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) development. Therefore, we sought to determine the clinical relationship between S3F and its receptors, neuropilin-2 (NP-2) and neuropilin-1 (NP-1) with EOC progression. We analyzed the immunohistological expression of S3F, NP-2, and NP-1 in clinical specimens of normal ovaries (N), benign cystadenomas (Cy), well-differentiated adenocarcinomas (WD), poorly-differentiated adenocarcinomas (PD), inclusion cysts (IC), paraovarian cysts (PC), and fallopian tubes (FT). Tissue sections were evaluated for staining intensity and percentage of immunoreactive epithelia. We found that expression of S3F and NP-2 decreased while NP-1 expression increased with EOC progression. Interestingly, we also found elevated expression of S3F, NP-2, and NP-1 in epithelia of ICs, PCs, and FT. Our findings indicate that loss or deregulation of semaphorin signaling may play an important role in EOC development.
Generalized Alpha‐Close‐to‐Convex Functions
Authors: Noor K. Inayat , Orhan Halit , Mustafa Saima
Published: November 2009

We define the classes Gβ(α, k, γ)
as follows:
f ∈ Gβ(α, k, γ)
if and only if, for z ∈ E = {z ∈ ℂ : |z| < 1},
|arg{(1 − α2z2)f′(z)/ e−iβϕ′(z)}| ≤ γπ/2, 0 < γ ≤ 1; α ∈ [0, 1]; β ∈ (−π/2, π/2),
where ϕ
is a function of bounded boundary rotation. Coefficient estimates, an inclusion
result, arclength problem, and some other properties of these classes are studied.
A Survey of Some Recent Results on Nonlinear Fault Tolerant Control
Authors: Benosman Mouhacine
Published: November 2009

Fault tolerant control (FTC) is the branch of control theory, dealing with the control of systems that become faulty during their operating life. Following the systems classification, as linear and nonlinear models, FTC can be classified in two different groups, linear FTC (LFTC) dealing with linear models, and the one of interest to us in this paper, nonlinear FTC (NFTC), which deals with nonlinear models. We present in this paper a survey of some of the results obtained in these last years on NFTC.
A Proteomic Approach for Plasma Biomarker Discovery with iTRAQ Labelling and OFFGEL Fractionation
Authors: Ernoult Emilie , Bourreau Anthony , Gamelin Erick , Guette Catherine
Published: November 2009

Human blood plasma contains a plethora of proteins, encompassing not only proteins that have plasma-based functionalities, but also possibly every other form of low concentrated human proteins. As it circulates through the tissues, the plasma picks up proteins that are released from their origin due to physiological events such as tissue remodeling and cell death. Specific disease processes or tumors are often characterized by plasma “signatures,” which may become obvious via changes in the plasma proteome profile, for example, through over expression of proteins. However, the wide dynamic range of proteins present in plasma makes their analysis very challenging, because high-abundance proteins tend to mask those of lower abundance. In the present study, we used a strategy combining iTRAQ as a reagent which improved the peptide ionization and peptide OFFGEL fractionation that has already been shown, in our previous research, to improve the proteome coverage of cellular extracts. Two prefractioning methods were compared: immunodepletion and a bead-based library of combinatorial hexapeptide technology. Our data suggested that both methods were complementary, with regard to the number of identified proteins. iTRAQ labelling, in association with OFFGEL fractionation, allowed more than 300 different proteins to be characterized from 400 μg of plasma proteins.
Trichophyton simii Infection Due to Laboratory Accident
Authors: Kamalam A. , Thambiah A.S.
Published: November 2009

Trichophyton simii produced kerion on the intact forearm skin due to a laboratory accident within 5 days of contact. Early institution of griseofulvin resolved the condition in 15 days with no recurrence during 38 months of follow-up.
L-Arginine and L-Nitroarginine Methylester Effects on Vasomotion in Isolated Rabbit Eyes
Authors: Delgado E. , Marques-Neves C. , Rocha I. , Sales-Luís J. , Silva-Carvalho L.
Published: November 2009

Background/Aims: Although nitric oxide (NO) has been shown to be essential for maintaining the basal blood flow in the retina and optic nerve head, its exact role in vasomotion is still controversial. This study investigated L-arginine (L-Arg) and N-nitro-L-arginine methylester (L-NAME) effects on vascular reactivity in a model of isolated rabbit eye. Methods: Rabbit external ophthalmic arteries (n = 12) in a head-mounted preparation were cannulated and perfused with warmed Tyrode solution. The effect of intraluminal pressure as a measure of total vascular resistance was assessed. Response curves to intra-arterial injections of 3 growing concentrations of L-Arg (n = 6) and L-NAME (n = 6) were obtained. Results: Without any drug administration, spontaneous oscillations were observed in all the models. L-Arg (NO precursor) induced vasodilation and decreased both frequency and amplitude of the periodic oscillations. L-NAME (NO synthase inhibitor) produced a strong vasoconstrictor tone and stimulated vasomotion, causing a faster rate of pulsatility. Conclusion:L-Arg and L-NAME acted as modulators of ocular vascular tone. L-Arg elicited vasodilation and decreased vasomotion while L-NAME produced a strong vasoconstrictor tone and caused a faster rate of pulsatility. These findings justify the need to investigate NO precursors and antagonists as possible alternative therapeutics in vascular eye diseases.
In vitro Prevention of Vaccinia and Herpesvirus Infection Spread in Explanted Human Corneas by N-Chlorotaurine
Authors: Huemer Hartwig P. , Nagl Markus , Irschick Eveline U.
Published: November 2009

Objective: Weak oxidants produced by activated human leukocytes are proven antimicrobial substances. We tested whether N-chlorotaurine (NCT, taurine chloramine), the chlorinated metabolite of the amino acid taurine, in addition to direct virucidal effects on viral suspensions, has the capability to prevent cell-to-cell spread of viruses in human corneal epithelium. Methods: Human corneal grafts were infected in vitro with poxvirus (vaccinia virus, VV) and herpesvirus. Different NCT dilutions were added to prevent viral spread within the corneal epithelium as detected by immune-staining and microscopy of cytopathic effects. Additionally, virus release was measured by cell culture. Results: Addition of NCT significantly reduced the number of VV-infected epithelial cells at concentrations as low as 0.01% in culture medium, which was far beyond cytotoxic concentrations in long-term cultures. The release of virus by the infected corneal grafts was reduced by 2–3 log10 as well. As expected, herpesvirus infection was also positively affected. Conclusion: Smallpox has been known as a major cause of blindness in historical outbreaks. NCT could therefore provide an additional supportive means for treating orthopoxvirus-associated keratitis. Additionally, biocompatible local antiseptics like NCT could also serve as an experimental treatment in other keratitis of suspected viral origin.
Does Induced Abortion Increase the Risk of Preterm Birth? Results from a Case-Control Study
Authors: Parazzini Fabio , Ricci Elena , Chiaffarino Francesca , Cipriani Sonia , Tozzi Luca , Fedele Luigi
Published: November 2009

Aims: We analyzed the association between previous induced abortions and risk of preterm birth. Methods: This was a case-control study. Cases were 502 women who delivered preterm babies at the Clinica Luigi Mangiagalli and the Obstetric and Gynecology Clinic of the University of Verona. Controls were 1,966 women who gave birth at term (≧37 weeks of gestation) to healthy infants of normal weight. Results: The odds ratio for all preterm births was 0.7 (95% CI 0.5–1.1) for women reporting 1 induced abortion and 1.6 (95% CI 0.7–3.5) for those reporting 2 or more induced abortions (χ2 trend p = 0.81). Previous induced abortions did not increase the risk of preterm birth, both in small and normal for gestational age preterm infants. No difference emerged in risk factors for infants born at <32 and 32–36 gestational weeks. Conclusion: This study does not support the suggestion that induced abortions, as performed in Italy during the study period, increase the risk of preterm delivery in subsequent pregnancies.
Regulators Involved in the Electrically Stimulated Response of Feline Esophageal Smooth Muscle
Authors: Park Sun Young , Park Sung Uk , Sohn Uy Dong
Published: November 2009

In this study, we investigated the components of electrical field stimulation (EFS)-induced responses and the intracellular factors that mediate electrically stimulated responses in feline distal esophageal smooth muscles. Muscle contractions were recorded using an isometric force transducer. Low-frequency EFS induced only off-contraction, but induced on-contraction in the presence of NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, suggesting that nitric oxide acts as an inhibitory mediator in smooth muscle. The excitatory composition of both contractions was cholinergic, because of their abolishment by tetrodotoxin or atropine. The off-contraction was abolished in Ca2+-free buffer but reappeared in normal Ca2+-containing buffer. ML-9, a myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) inhibitor, significantly inhibited off-contraction, whereas chelerythrine (protein kinase C inhibitor) did not affect the contraction. Aluminum fluoride (a G-protein activator) increased off-contraction. Pertussis toxin (a Gi/o inactivator) and C3 exoenzyme (a RhoA inactivator) significantly decreased off-contraction. Furthermore, 4-aminopyridine (4-AP), voltage-dependent K+ (Kv) channel blocker, did not significantly enhance off-contraction. These results suggest that cholinergic nerves and nitric oxide are major intrinsic contributors to the control of feline distal esophageal smooth muscle motility, and that endogenous cholinergic contractions activated directly by low-frequency EFS may be mediated by external Ca2+, MLCK, and G proteins, such as Gi/o and RhoA. Furthermore, our findings suggest that K+ current via 4-AP-sensitive K+ (including Kv) channels is not a major participant in the endogenous cholinergic contractions induced by EFS in feline distal esophageal smooth muscle.
Carotid Atherosclerosis and a Reduced Likelihood for Lowered Cognitive Performance in a Canadian First Nations Population
Authors: Fergenbaum J.H. , Bruce S. , Spence J.D. , Lou W. , Hanley A.J.G. , Greenwood C. , Young T.K.
Published: November 2009

Background: We investigated the associations among cardiovascular risk factors, carotid atherosclerosis and cognitive function in a Canadian First Nations population. Methods: Individuals aged ≥18 years, without stroke, nonpreg- nant and with First Nations status were assessed by the Trail Making Test Parts A and B. Results were combined into a Trail Making Test executive function score (TMT-exec). Doppler ultrasonography assessed carotid stenosis and plaque volume. Anthropometric, vascular and metabolic risk factors were assessed by interview, clinical examinations and blood tests. Results: For 190 individuals with TMT-exec scores, the median age of the population was 39 years. Compared to the reference group, individuals with elevated levels of left carotid stenosis (LCS) and total carotid stenosis (TCS) were less likely to demonstrate lowered cognitive performance [LCS, odds ratio (OR): 0.47, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.24–0.96; TCS, OR: 0.40, 95% CI: 0.20–0.80]. No effect was shown for plaque volume. In structural equation modeling, we found that for every 1-unit change in the anthropometric factor in kg/m2, there was a 0.86-fold decrease in the percent of TCS (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Individuals with elevated levels of LCS and TCS were less likely to demonstrate lowered performance. There was some suggestion that TCS mediates the effect of anthropometric risk factors on cognitive function.
Ureteral Endometriosis: A Rare and Underdiagnosed Cause of Kidney Dysfunction
Authors: Ponticelli Claudio , Graziani Giorgio , Montanari Emanuele
Published: November 2009

Little attention has been paid by the renal literature to ureteral endometriosis, a rare and silent disorder that can eventually lead to renal failure. In endometriosis, the ureteral involvement can be limited to a single ureter, more often the left one, or both ureters with consequent urine tract obstruction and ureterohydronephrosis. In most cases, the ureteral obstruction is caused by endometrial tissue surrounding the ureter (extrinsic ureteral endometriosis). In the remaining cases, endometrial cells are located within the ureter (intrinsic ureteral endometriosis). Progressive ureteral obstruction can be insidious in onset and can ultimately lead to renal failure if a correct diagnosis is missed. The true incidence of renal failure caused by endometriosis is completely unknown, although cases have been reported in the literature. The diagnosis of ureteral endometriosis is difficult since the disease may be clinically silent or associated with non-specific symptoms. Only a high index of suspicion and radiological support may help to obtain an early diagnosis. However, while renal imaging is useful in the cases of extrinsic endometriosis, the diagnosis of intrinsic endometriosis often requires ureteroscopy or laparoscopy. The prognosis of ureteral endometriosis depends on the time of diagnosis. In too many cases of bilateral obstruction, the patient is referred to the nephrologist because of an advanced, irreversible renal failure. Although some patients may benefit from progestin or anti-arotamase therapy, in most cases of ureteral endometriosis surgery is needed, laparoscopy surgery being preferred today to laparatomy.
Outcomes in CKD: What We Know and What We Need to Know
Authors: Clark Laura E. , Khan Izhar
Published: November 2009

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major public health concern. The high prevalence of reduced estimated glomerular filtration (eGFR) in the elderly has led to speculation as to whether it should really be regarded as a disease in all. Patients with CKD exhibit considerable cardiovascular morbidity and mortality but until recently data regarding the natural history of CKD, particularly in the elderly, has been somewhat lacking. As such the clinical significance of K/DOQI’s CKD definition in terms of additional morbidity, mortality and progression to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) remains uncertain. Data have shown that death from cardiovascular disease is far more common than progression to renal replacement therapy in the elderly. Factors which increase the risks of progression to ESRD include younger age, proteinuria and diabetes. Although the elderly have high rates of cardiovascular death, comparatively younger patients with CKD have substantially increased relative risks of death. Specialist renal review should be targeted towards these high-risk patients while the majority of elderly patients can be safely monitored in primary care. It remains doubtful whether labelling all elderly CKD patients with a ‘disease’ confers any additional benefit.