bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brain gene expression changes elicited by peripheral vitellogenin knockdown in the honey bee
Authors: Wheeler M. M. , Ament S. A. , Rodriguez‐Zas S. L. , Robinson G. E.
Published: July 2013

Vitellogenin (Vg) is best known as a yolk protein precursor. Vg also functions to regulate behavioural maturation in adult honey bee workers, but the underlying molecular mechanisms by which it exerts this novel effect are largely unknown. We used abdominal vitellogenin (vg) knockdown with RNA interference (RNAi) and brain transcriptomic profiling to gain insights into how Vg influences honey bee behavioural maturation. We found that vg knockdown caused extensive gene expression changes in the bee brain, with much of this transcriptional response involving changes in central biological functions such as energy metabolism. vg knockdown targeted many of the same genes that show natural, maturation‐related differences, but the direction of change for the genes in these two contrasts was not correlated. By contrast, vg knockdown targeted many of the same genes that are regulated by juvenile hormone (JH) and there was a significant correlation for the direction of change for the genes in these two contrasts. These results indicate that the tight coregulatory relationship that exists between JH and Vg in the regulation of honey bee behavioural maturation is manifest at the genomic level and suggest that these two physiological factors act through common pathways to regulate brain gene expression and behaviour.
Estimated impact of aggressive empirical antiviral treatment in containing an outbreak of pandemic influenza H1N1 in an isolated First Nations community
Authors: Xiao Yanyu , Patel Zeenat , Fiddler Adam , Yuan Lilian , Delvin Marie‐Elaine , Fisman David N.
Published: July 2013

Background

The 2009 influenza A (H1N1) pandemic was mild by historical standards, but was more severe in isolated Canadian Indigenous communities. Oseltamivir was used aggressively for outbreak control in an isolated northern Ontario First Nations community. We used mathematical modeling to quantify the impact of antiviral therapy on the course of this outbreak.

Methods

We used both a Richards growth model and a compartmental model to evaluate the characteristics of the outbreak based on both respiratory visits and influenza‐like illness counts. Estimates of best‐fit model parameters, including basic reproductive number (R0) and antiviral efficacy, and simulations, were used to estimate the impact of antiviral drugs compared to social distancing interventions alone.

Results

Using both approaches, we found that a rapidly growing outbreak slowed markedly with aggressive antiviral therapy. Richards model turning points occurred within 24 hours of antiviral implementation. Compartmental models estimated antiviral efficacy at 70–95%. Plausible estimates of R from both modeling approaches ranged from 4·0 to 15·8, higher than published estimates for southern Canada; utilization of aggressive antiviral therapy in this community prevented 962–1757 cases of symptomatic influenza and as many as 114 medical evacuations in this community.

Conclusion

Although not advocated in other settings in Canada, aggressive antiviral therapy markedly reduced the impact of a pandemic‐related influenza A (H1N1) outbreak in an isolated Canadian First Nations community in northern Ontario, Canada. The differential risk experienced by such communities makes tailored interventions that consider risk and lack of access to medical services, appropriate.
Clinical analysis and classification of dark eye circle
Authors: Huang Yau‐Li , Chang Shyue‐Luen , Ma Lih , Lee Mei‐Ching , Hu Sindy
Published: July 2013

Background

Dark eye circle (DEC) is a common problem that usually lacks detailed classification in the etiology and structural variations. A newly‐developed DEC Assessment Score using Wood's lamp and ultrasonogram will provide a more precise evaluation of DEC for improving treatment results.

Materials and methods

Sixty‐five cases, including eight males and 57 females with a mean age of 38.9 years, were enrolled. DEC were classified into pigmented (brown), vascular (blue to purple), structural, and mixed type by Wood's lamp and ultrasonogram. A scoring system with nine parameters, including brown hue, pigmented lesions, blue/pink/purple hue, periorbital puffiness, shadow hue, infraorbital palpebral bags, infraorbital grooves, blepharoptosis, and skin type, was used for clinical evaluation.

Results

Pigmented, vascular, structural, and mixed types of DEC represented 5%, 14%, 3%, and 78%, respectively. Thirty‐three cases with periorbital puffiness were found to have higher “pre‐septal thickness” than those of 20 controlled cases (P = 0.032). Fourteen patients with infraorbital palpebral bags were proved to have protruded retroseptal fat pads by ultrasonography.

Conclusion

Pigmentation and vascular and structural components may play important roles in DEC. Detailed classification of DEC types will access physicians in the decision of appropriate therapeutic modalities.
Hematological study of patients with aphthous stomatitis
Authors: Lopez‐Jornet Pia , Camacho‐Alonso Fabio , Martos Nieves
Published: July 2013

Objectives

A study was made of the association between recurrent aphthosis (RAS) and iron, ferritin, vitamin B12, and folic acid deficiency.

Methods

A total of 186 adults were consecutively recruited: 92 subjects with RAS (28 males and 64 females, with a mean age of 41 years) and 94 controls (20 men and 74 women, with a mean age of 44 years), and subjected to clinical and hematological evaluation.

Results

The overall frequency of hematinic deficiencies was 14.14% in the RAS group versus 6.39% in the control group (P = 0.086). Patient age and a family history of aphthosis were associated to the presence of RAS.

Conclusion

There is still no conclusive evidence relevant to the etiopathogenesis of RAS. Routine hematological screening and tests for serum iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 deficiencies should be assessed in all patients with RAS.
An autopsy case of leiomyosarcoma of the maxilla
Authors: TAKAGI MINORU , ISHIKAWA GORO
Published: July 2013

Abstract. An autopsy case of leiomyosarcoma originating in the maxilla is presented. Although repeated light microscopic findings were consistent with a diagnosis of fibrosarcoma, electron microscopic examination revealed myofilaments with dense patches in the spindle‐shaped cytoplasm of the tumor cells. It is suggested that “fibrosarcomas” of the oral cavity diagnosed by light microscopy could be leiomyosarcomas.
Effect of Phosphorus Nutrition on Growth and Physiology of Cotton Under Ambient and Elevated Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Singh S. K. , Badgujar G. B. , Reddy V. R. , Fleisher D. H. , Timlin D. J.
Published: July 2013

Phosphorous deficiency in soil limits crop growth and productivity in the majority of arable lands worldwide and may moderate the growth enhancement effect of rising atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration. To evaluate the interactive effect of these two factors on cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) growth and physiology, plants were grown in controlled environment growth chambers with three levels of phosphate (Pi) supply (0.20, 0.05 and 0.01 mm) under ambient and elevated (400 and 800 μmol mol−1, respectively) CO2. Phosphate stress caused stunted growth and resulted in early leaf senescence with severely decreased leaf area and photosynthesis. Phosphate stress led to over 77 % reduction in total biomass across CO2 levels. There was a below‐ground (roots) shift in biomass partitioning under Pi deficiency. While tissue phosphorus (P) decreased, tissue nitrogen (N) content tended to increase under Pi deficiency. The CO2 × Pi interactions were significant on leaf area, photosynthesis and biomass accumulation. The stimulatory effect of elevated CO2 on growth and photosynthesis was reduced or highly depressed suggesting an increased sensitivity of cotton to Pi deficiency under elevated CO2. Although, tissue P and stomatal conductance were lower at elevated CO2, these did not appear to be the main causes of cotton unresponsiveness to elevated CO2 under severe Pi‐stress. The alteration in the uptake and utilization of N was suggested due to a consistent reduction (18–21 %) in the cotton plant tissue N content under elevated CO2.
Processing of Hierarchical and Anisotropic Porosity LSM‐YSZ Composites
Authors: Lichtner Aaron Z. , Jauffrès David , Martin Christophe L. , Bordia Rajendra K.
Published: July 2013

Aqueous dispersions of lanthanum strontium manganite (LSM) and yttria‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ) particles were controllably freeze‐cast and then partially sintered resulting in anisotropic, hierarchically porous ceramics for Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) cathodes. The resulting microstructures have aligned pores with a characteristic spacing (λ) between pore centers. The effect of freezing rate, slurry viscosity, and solid loading on solidification velocity and resultant microstructures was explored. Varying these parameters resulted in samples with a range of independently controllable and reproducible microstructures. Homogenous dispersion of LSM and YSZ in the freeze‐cast structures was confirmed through elemental mapping. Freezing rate was found to have a significant effect on λ while solid loading affected overall porosity and ceramic wall‐ to‐pore size ratio but had only a small influence on λ. Viscosity was found to have a complex albeit small impact on λ but a significant effect on particle dispersion and colloid stability.
Tracking the boundary between the Palaearctic and the Oriental region: new insights from dragonflies and damselflies (Odonata)
Authors: Heiser Markus , Schmitt Thomas
Published: July 2013

Aim

We aim to define the hotspots, faunal regions and faunal elements of Odonata in Eurasia. We describe the location and the extent of the transition zone between the Palaearctic and Oriental realms.

Location

Eurasia.

Methods

Odonata are suitable for this study because the number of species in the group is sufficient for the required analyses, their distributions are mostly known, and they are split into the highly dispersive Anisoptera and the weakly dispersive Zygoptera. For our analyses, Eurasia was classified into 63 regions, within which we determined the presence or absence of each of the 1765 Odonata species. We calculated species richness maps and performed cluster analysis and principal components analysis to extract faunal regions and elements.

Results

Occurrence records of Eurasian Odonata were partitioned among three major biogeographical entities: (1) Europe, North Africa and North Asia; (2) India, Indochina and southern China; and (3) northern China, Korea and Japan. Each of these entities has further notable substructures and faunal elements, especially in Southeast Asia. The tropical rain forest region of Southeast Asia is the species diversity hotspot of odonates and has the highest number of (often localized) faunal elements. The northern border of the Oriental region reaches southernmost China and the southern slopes of the Himalayas, but the transitional zone between the Oriental and the Palaearctic region extends much farther north, and includes northern China, Japan and Manchuria. The lower dispersal ability of Zygoptera compared with that of Anisoptera is mirrored in various biogeographical patterns: (1) the Western Palaearctic influence on the Eastern Palaearctic is stronger in Anisoptera than in Zygoptera; (2) Zygoptera have more faunal elements on islands than do Anisoptera; and (3) Zygoptera are isolated by the Strait of Gibraltar, but do not show a finer‐grained structure of their faunal elements on the mainland.

Main conclusions

The less severe impact of the ice ages in Southeast Asia resulted in the evolution and survival of Odonata species in many regional refugia. These faunal elements have had a greater impact on the post‐glacial colonization than previously thought and strongly influence the composition of Odonata in East Asia.
Spontaneous Atrioventricular Nodal Reentrant Tachycardia in Patients with Idiopathic Ventricular Arrhythmias: The Incidence, Clinical, and Electrophysiologic Characteristics
Authors: HASDEMIR CAN , ALP ALPAY , SIMSEK EVRIM , KOSE NURI , AYDIN MEHMET , PAYZIN SERDAR
Published: July 2013

Idiopathic Ventricular Arrhythmias and Spontaneous AVNRT

Introduction

Spontaneous or inducible atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT) may coexist with idiopathic ventricular arrhythmias (IVAs). The aim of this study was to determine the incidence and the clinical and electrophysiologic characteristics of patients with spontaneous AVNRT among patients with IVAs.

Methods

Nine hundred eighty‐seven consecutive patients with IVA (n = 398), patients with clinical and spontaneous AVNRT (n = 327), and patients with preexcitation syndrome (n = 262) were prospectively included in the study.

Results

Spontaneous AVNRT was present in 36 (9.0%) of 398 patients with IVA. The most common (97%) mode of presentation was palpitation due to spontaneous AVNRT. Absence of symptoms was frequent among patients with IVA and without spontaneous AVNRT compared to patients with IVA and spontaneous AVNRT (28.9% vs 0%, P = 0.0001). Patients with IVA and spontaneous AVNRT had lower median premature ventricular contraction (PVC) burden (1.9% vs 9.45%, P = 0.0001) and higher left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF; 64.2 ± 4.9% vs 59.2 ± 9.9%, P = 0.0001) compared to patients with IVA and without spontaneous AVNRT. Relatively high PVC burden (≥10%) was present in 19.4% of patients with spontaneous AVNRT and IVA. The prevalence of IVA was significantly higher in patients with AVNRT compared to patients with preexcitation syndrome (11% vs 0.76%, P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Spontaneous AVNRT among patients with IVAs was relatively common in our study population. Spontaneous AVNRT in patients with IVAs can be a protective factor for left ventricular function. Greater LVEF in patients with spontaneous AVNRT and IVA compared to patients with IVA alone can be explained by earlier recognition of IVAs due to presence of symptomatic AVNRT and/or lower PVC burden.
Electrophysiological Mapping and Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation for Ventricular Tachycardia in a Patient with Peripartum Cardiomyopathy
Authors: TOKUDA MICHIFUMI , STEVENSON WILLIAM G. , NAGASHIMA KOICHI , RUBIN DAVID A.
Published: July 2013

VT Ablation in a Patient with Peripartum Cardiomyopathy

A 38‐year‐old female with prior failed endocardial ablation for ventricular tachycardia (VT) was referred for further treatment. She had been diagnosed with peripartum cardiomyopathy 7 years before and had persistent left ventricular dysfunction with an ejection fraction of 20%. Epicardial voltage mapping showed extensive epicardial scar despite absence of endocardial scar. Five distinct VT morphologies were induced. Ablation was aided by electrogram characteristics, pace mapping, entrainment mapping, and establishing electrical inexcitability along areas of epicardial scar. After epicardial ablation no sustained VT was induced. She had been doing well without VT occurrence but died 1 year later unexpectedly at home.
Systematic review of interventions on antibiotic prophylaxis in surgery in Chinese hospitals during 2000–2012
Authors: Sun Jing
Published: July 2013

Objective

To systematically review intervention studies on antibiotic prophylaxis in clean or clean‐contaminated surgery in Chinese hospitals from 2000 to 2012.

Methods

Published peer reviewed articles, unpublished documents and reports, and gray literature were identified through searching CNKI, CBM, VIP, PubMed (MEDLINE), WHO database, and the official websites of the Ministry of Health of China, provincial health authorities and medical university internal publications.

Results

Eighty‐two studies were identified. Circulation and localization of central rules, regulations and guidelines; clinical pharmacists’ involvement; technical, administrative, and managerial strategies were the mostly adopted interventions. Except one study, all claimed effectiveness of interventions. Limited effects were observed for non‐indicated clean surgery. Huge gaps still existed between the international agreed guidelines and the claimed best performance following interventions. The following were critical to have more effective interventions: recognition, acceptance, and enforcement strategies of rules, regulations, and guidelines; intervention persistence and intensity; health information system; removal of health system perverse incentives; patient–doctor relationship; public education; and access to unbiased medicines information. A total 4 of 82 studies were pre–post studies with control; all others were simple pre–post studies without control. Simple measurement of the outcome indicators as an average for pre–post intervention groups and changes in between failed to distinguish the real intervention effect from confounding factors, and failed to adjust underlying trends.

Conclusions

Interventions on surgical antibiotic prophylaxis in Chinese hospitals during 2000–2012 brought limited positive effects. There are still huge gaps between the Chinese situation and internationally agreed standards. More advanced study methodologies are needed to have better documentation of evidence of the most effective interventions.
Determinants of inadequate fruit and vegetable consumption amongst Portuguese adults
Authors: Oliveira A. , Maia B. , Lopes C.
Published: July 2013

Background

A low consumption of fruit and vegetables (F&V) represents a high burden on health. The present study evaluates sociodemographic, lifestyle and anthropometric determinants of an inadequate consumption of F&V (<5 servings per day).

Methods

Participants were randomly selected within the adult Porto population (n = 2485). Those with normal cognitive function and information on key variables were analysed (n = 2362). Diet was assessed by a validated food frequency questionnaire. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated by logistic regression, after sex stratification and controlling for age, education, marital status, smoking, regular physical exercise and total energy intake.

Results

Older women and men had 37% and 67%, respectively, lower odds of inadequate F&V consumption (≥65 versus <40 years: OR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.42–0.94; OR = 0.33, 95% CI = 0.20–0.56). More educated subjects (>12 versus <5 years) and those engaged in regular physical exercise had approximately 50% lower probability of F&V inadequacy compared to nonpractitioners, and this was similar in both sexes. On the other hand, female and male current smokers had 1.86‐ and 2.05‐fold higher probabilities of having inadequate F&V consumption. Individuals consuming excessive alcohol (women: ≥15 g day−1; men: ≥30 g day−1) presented a two‐ and four‐fold higher probability of having inadequate F&V consumption compared to nondrinkers (OR = 1.95, 95% CI = 1.38–2.77 in women; OR = 4.40, 95% CI = 2.70–7.18 in men).

Conclusions

In both sexes, an inadequate consumption of F&V was more frequently found in younger, less educated and less physically active subjects with smoking and drinking habits. Strategies aiming to increase F&V consumption should consider these target groups that present a clustering of unhealthy lifestyles.
Peak‐temperature patterns of polyphase metamorphism resulting from accretion, subduction and collision (eastern Tauern Window,European Alps) – a study withRaman microspectroscopy on carbonaceous material (RSCM)
Authors: Scharf A. , Handy M. R. , Ziemann M. A. , Schmid S. M.
Published: July 2013

Raman microspectroscopy on carbonaceous material (RSCM) from the eastern Tauern Window indicates contrasting peak‐temperature patterns in three different fabric domains, each of which underwent a poly‐metamorphic orogenic evolution: Domain 1 in the northeastern Tauern Window preserves oceanic units (Glockner Nappe System, Matrei Zone) that attained peak temperatures (Tp) of 350–480 °C following Late Cretaceous to Palaeogene nappe stacking in an accretionary wedge. Domain 2 in the central Tauern Window experiencedTpof 500–535 °C that was attained either within an exhumed Palaeogene subduction channel or during Oligocene Barrovian‐type thermal overprinting within the Alpine collisional orogen. Domain 3 in the Eastern Tauern Subdome has a peak‐temperature pattern that resulted from Eo‐Oligocene nappe stacking of continental units derived from the distal European margin. This pattern acquired its presently concentric pattern in Miocene time due to post‐nappe doming and extensional shearing along the Katschberg Shear Zone System (KSZS).Tpvalues in the largest (Hochalm) dome range from 612 °C in its core to 440 °C at its rim. The maximum peak‐temperature gradient (≤70 °C km−1) occurs along the eastern margin of this dome where mylonitic shearing of the Katschberg Normal Fault (KNF) significantly thinned the Subpenninic‐ and Penninic nappe pile, including the pre‐existing peak‐temperature gradient.
A ‘pocket guide’ to total internal reflection fluorescence
Authors: MARTIN‐FERNANDEZ M.L. , TYNAN C.J. , WEBB S.E.D.
Published: July 2013

The phenomenon of total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) was placed in the context of optical microscopy by Daniel Axelrod over three decades ago. TIRF microscopy exploits the properties of an evanescent electromagnetic field to optically section sample regions in the close vicinity of the substrate where the field is induced. The first applications in cell biology targeted investigation of phenomena at the basolateral plasma membrane. The most notable application of TIRF is single‐molecule experiments, which can provide information on fluctuation distributions and rare events, yielding novel insights on the mechanisms governing the molecular interactions that underpin many fundamental processes within the cell. This short review intends to provide a ‘one stop shop’ explanation of the electromagnetic theory behind the remarkable properties of the evanescent field, guide the reader through the principles behind building or choosing your own TIRF system and consider how the most popular applications of the method exploit the evanescent field properties.
Authority Defied: Need for Cognitive Closure Influences Regulatory Control When Resisting Authority
Authors: Damen Tom G. E. , van Leeuwen Matthijs L. , Dijksterhuis Ap , van Baaren Rick B.
Published: July 2013

The present studies examined whether differences in need for cognitive closure (NCC) were related to differences in regulatory control when confronted with authority. In two studies, levels of regulatory control were measured when participants resisted (Study 1; N = 46) or prepared to resist the influence attempt of an authority figure (Study 2; N = 50). Results showed that resisting the influence attempt from a high‐authority figure was more depleting for participants higher in NCC compared to individuals lower in NCC. However, when they were given instructions and time to prepare the act of resistance, individuals high in NCC actually showed an increase in regulatory control. Authority is usually viewed as a general principle of influence; however, the present studies suggest that there are individual differences that influence how people may experience interactions with authorities.
Relationship Between Eating Behaviors and Physical Activity Among Primary and Secondary School Students: Results of a Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Morin Pascale , Turcotte Sylvain , Perreault Gino
Published: July 2013

BACKGROUND

With a view toward developing concerted efforts in fostering healthy eating habits and a physically active lifestyle among young people, a study was carried out to explore associations between eating behavior and physical activity (PA).

METHODS

In the school district, questionnaires were completed at home by parents of primary school children (N = 8612) and by secondary school youth (N = 5250) during a break in the schedule. The rates of response were 79% and 83%, respectively. Inferential and descriptive analyses were performed.

RESULTS

The results indicate significant differences between the eating behaviors of young people who engage in 60 minutes of daily PA and those who are sedentary. The physically active children were generally more likely to eat fruit, vegetables, and whole‐grain products and to have breakfast (p < .05 among high‐school students). The lack of self‐confidence (55%) and not enjoying PA (46%) stood out as the greatest obstacles facing adolescents trying to lose weight.

CONCLUSION

There should be particular actions targeting students in the last half of primary school aimed at developing individual accountability and autonomy with respect to healthy eating andPA. These actions should also consider sex differences and those who have more sedentary lifestyles.
Influencing Factors of Sedentary Behavior in European Preschool Settings: An Exploration Through Focus Groups With Teachers
Authors: De Decker Ellen , De Craemer Marieke , De Bourdeaudhuij Ilse , Wijndaele Katrien , Duvinage Kristin , Androutsos Odysseas , Iotova Violeta , Lateva Mina , Alvira Juan Miguel Fernández , Zych Kamila , Manios Yannis , Cardon Greet
Published: July 2013

BACKGROUND

Sedentary behavior refers to activities involving sitting down and reclining (eg, watching TV, using the computer) and has been associated with different health outcomes. In preschool, children are sedentary for 50% to 80% of the time, in the classroom as well as during recess. Because of the absence of qualitative studies examining influencing factors of preschoolers' sedentary behavior in preschool settings, this study explored teachers' opinions on potentially influencing factors of this behavior.

METHODS

Eighty‐seven teachers of 4‐ to 6‐year‐old preschoolers from 6 European countries participated in a total of 18 focus groups between October 2010 and January 2011. Key findings were reported separately by country, and were independently analyzed by 2 researchers using qualitative content analysis.

RESULTS

Teachers perceive the lack of play space and small classroom size as being influential factors on preschoolers' sedentary behavior; increasing play equipment and using teachers' prompts are mentioned as ways to stimulate children to be less sedentary on the playground. Computer use is reported to be more common in preschool than watching TV.

CONCLUSION

Interventions should focus on increasing teachers' awareness of how sedentary preschoolers are during the preschool day. Teachers also should be informed about strategies to decrease sedentariness in the classroom and on the playground.
In-vitro prediction of bioavailability following extravascular injection of poorly soluble drugs: an insight into clinical failure and the role of delivery systems
Authors: Wu Zimei , Hassan Dalia , Shaw John P
Published: July 2013

Objectives

To investigate the feasibility of using an in-vitro model to simulate the incidence of post-injection drug precipitation (PDP), and to identify the roles of drug properties and delivery systems in its occurrence.

Methods

A literature review on incomplete absorption following extravascular injection (subcutaneous and intramuscular) was conducted. Six model drugs in nine different formulations were studied for an in-vitro/in-vivo correlation. A rapid in-vitro dilution method using a 96-well plate was used for predicting PDP by dilution with a physiological buffer. New formulations based on hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (CD), with and without co-solvents or pH control, were developed and tested on the in-vitro model.

Key findings

The occurrence of precipitation detected from the in-vitro dilution model appeared to be correlated with clinical reports and animal studies. The formulation components played an important role in determining the potential for drug precipitation on dilution or pH neutralization. CD was found to reduce the tendency for precipitation. The addition of co-solvents may reduce the effect of CD, depending on the solvent used.

Conclusions

The in-vitro model can be used as a cost-effective screening tool in injectable formulation development for safe and effective delivery of poorly soluble drugs. PDP can be circumvented with a well-designed formulation.
A melatonin‐based fluorescence method for the measurement of mitochondrial complex III function in intact cells
Authors: Fu Jian‐Liang , Zhang Hong‐Mei , Zhang Hua , Kamat Amrita , Yeh Chih‐Ko , Zhang Bin‐Xian
Published: July 2013

Mitochondrial complex III (MC‐3) plays a pivotal role in electron transfer and oxidative phosphorylation. Impaired MC‐3 functions may contribute to a variety of diseases by interrupting normal bioenergetics and increasing reactive oxygen production and oxidative stress. Currently, MC‐3 function is assessed by measuring the cytochrome c reductase activity spectrophotometrically in isolated mitochondria or MC‐3. The cytoplasmic microenvironment critical for mitochondrial complex functions may be depleted during these isolation processes. The development of a reliable method to measure MC‐3 activities in intact cells or tissues is highly desirable. This report describes a novel fluorescence‐based method to assess MC‐3 functions, i.e., Qi site electron transfer, in the intact cells. Human mesangial and teratocarcinoma NT2 cells were used to demonstrate that melatonin‐induced oxidation of 2′,7′‐dichlorodihydrofluorescein (H2DCF) was inhibited by antimycin A, the MC‐3 Qi site‐specific inhibitor, but not by myxothiazol, the MC‐3 Qo site‐specific inhibitor, nor rotenone, the mitochondrial complex I inhibitor. These results indicate that melatonin‐induced oxidation of H2DCF is reflecting MC‐3 Qi site electron transfer activities. Modifying structures of the side groups at the R3 and R5 positions of the indole ring of melatonin diminished its efficacy for inducing H2DCF oxidation, suggesting a specific interaction of melatonin with the MC‐3 Qi site. These results suggest that the fluorogenic property of melatonin‐induced H2DCF oxidation provides a MC‐3 Qi site electron transfer‐specific measurement in intact cells. Interestingly, using this method, the Qi site electron transfer activity in transformed or immortalized cells was found to be significantly higher than the nontransformed cells.
Melatonin reverses the decreases in hippocampal protein serine/threonine kinases observed in an animal model of autism
Authors: Tian Yun , Yabuki Yasushi , Moriguchi Shigeki , Fukunaga Kohji , Mao Pei‐Jiang , Hong Ling‐Juan , Lu Ying‐Mei , Wang Rui , Ahmed Muhammad Masood , Liao Mei‐Hua , Huang Ji‐Yun , Zhang Rui‐Ting , Zhou Tian‐Yi , Long Sen , Han Feng
Published: July 2013

Lower global cognitive function scores are a common symptom of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). This study investigates the effects of melatonin on hippocampal serine/threonine kinase signaling in an experimental ASD model. We found that chronic melatonin (1.0 or 5.0 mg/kg/day, 28 days) treatment significantly rescued valproic acid (VPA, 600 mg/kg)‐induced decreases in CaMKII (Thr286), NMDAR1 (Ser896), and PKA (Thr197) phosphorylation in the hippocampus without affecting total protein levels. Compared with control rats, the immunostaining of pyramidal neurons in the hippocampus revealed a decrease in immunolabeling intensity for phospho‐CaMKII (Thr286) in the hippocampus of VPA‐treated rats, which was ameliorated by chronic melatonin treatment. Consistent with the elevation of CaMKII/PKA/PKC phosphorylation observed in melatonin‐treated rat, long‐term potentiation (LTP) was enhanced after chronic melatonin (5.0 mg/kg) treatment, as reflected by extracellular field potential slopes that increased from 56 to 60 min (133.4 ± 3.9% of the baseline, P < 0.01 versus VPA‐treated rats) following high‐frequency stimulation (HFS) in hippocampal slices. Accordingly, melatonin treatment also significantly improved social behavioral deficits at postnatal day 50 in VPA‐treated rats. Taken together, the increased phosphorylation of CaMKII/PKA/PKC signaling might contribute to the beneficial effects of melatonin on autism symptoms.
Refinement of the dose of doxapram to counteract the sedative effects of acepromazine in dogs
Authors: Zapata M. , Hofmeister E. H.
Published: July 2013

Objectives

To evaluate the effectiveness of two doses of doxapram in reversing acepromazine sedation in dogs.

Methods

Using a crossover design, 10 adult mixed‐breed dogs received 0·05 mg/kg acepromazine, intramuscularly (im) followed 30 minutes later by one of the three randomly determined treatments: 0·0625mL/kg saline, intravenously (iv), 1·25 mg/kg doxapram, iv or 2·5 mg/kg doxapram, iv. Sedation scores were obtained by a single, blinded observer at 0, 15 and 30 minutes after acepromazine administration and at 5, 15 and 30 minutes after the treatment administration.

Results

The mean baseline sedation score of all the treatments was not different among treatments. All the dogs had a significant increase in sedation score at 30 minutes after acepromazine administration. Both the low and high doses of doxapram showed a significant decrease in sedation score compared to saline, but there was no significant difference between the two doses. Five dogs in the high dose group panted after treatment injection, and this was significantly more than in the low dose group.

Clinical Significance

Doxapram is effective in reducing the sedative effects of acepromazine over a short period of time. A dose of 1·25 mg/kg effectively decreases acepromazine sedation without causing panting.
Urine concentrations of xanthine, hypoxanthine and uric acid inUKCavalier King Charles spaniels
Authors: Jacinto A. M. L. , Mellanby R. J. , Chandler M. , Bommer N. X. , Carruthers H. , Fairbanks L. D. , Gow A. G.
Published: July 2013

Objectives

Xanthine urolithiasis and asymptomatic xanthinuria have been diagnosed in Cavalier King Charles spaniel dogs suggesting that primary xanthinuria may be a breed‐related disorder, although its prevalence remains unclear. The hypothesis of this study was that asymptomatic xanthinuria is common in Cavalier King Charles spaniel dogs.

Methods

Free catch urine samples were collected from 35 client‐owned Cavalier King Charles spaniel dogs and from 24 dogs of other breeds. The purine metabolites were measured by high‐performance liquid chromatography. The urine ratios of xanthine/creatinine and hypoxanthine/creatinine were calculated and compared between the two groups of dogs.

Results

The urine concentrations of purine metabolites were not significantly different between the two groups and were very low in both. The urine concentrations of xanthine in all 35 Cavalier King Charles spaniel were markedly lower than in the previously reported case of xanthine urolithiasis in aUKCavalier King Charles spaniel dog.

Clinical Significance

Asymptomatic xanthinuria was not detected in thisUKCavalier King Charles spaniel population. This data may be used as a reference for urinary purine metabolite concentrations in the dog.
Treatment of canine idiopathic immune‐mediated haemolytic anaemia with mycophenolate mofetil and glucocorticoids: 30 cases (2007 to 2011)
Authors: Wang A. , Smith J. R. , Creevy K. E.
Published: July 2013

Objective

To compare short‐term outcome and frequency of adverse events for dogs with idiopathic immune‐mediated haemolytic anaemia treated with glucocorticoids and mycophenolate mofetilvsalternate immunosuppressive protocols.

Methods

A retrospective study of medical case records of dogs with immune‐mediated haemolytic anaemia was conducted. Data collected included signalment, clinicopathological data, medications administered, duration of hospitalization, short‐term survival and adverse events. Variables were compared between dogs treated with glucocorticoids and mycophenolate mofetil (mycophenolate mofetil group)vsdogs treated with other two‐drug immunosuppressive protocols (combined group).

Results

Sixty‐four cases of idiopathic immune‐mediated haemolytic anaemia were identified. Two dogs were euthanased without treatment, three received glucocorticoids alone, and seven received two additional drugs. Fifty‐two dogs received glucocorticoids and additional immunosuppressive medications: 30 mycophenolate mofetil, 15 cyclosporine, 6 azathioprine and 1 human immunoglobulin. There was no significant difference between the discharge rate, 30‐day or 60‐day survival rates between the mycophenolate mofetil and the combined groups (Fisher's exact; P=0·272, 0·518, 1·000, respectively). The sole adverse event observed in the mycophenolate mofetil group was diarrhoea (n=5).

Clinical Significance

Administration of mycophenolate mofetil appears safe in dogs with idiopathic immune‐mediated haemolytic anaemia. The combination of glucocorticoids and mycophenolate mofetil has similar efficacy to alternate immunosuppressive protocols used to treat this disease.
Power Asymmetry, Adaptation and Collaboration in Dyadic Relationships Involving a Powerful Partner
Authors: Nyaga Gilbert N. , Lynch Daniel F. , Marshall Donna , Ambrose Eamonn
Published: July 2013

Buyer–supplier relationships involve dyadic interactions, but there is a dearth of empirical dyadic analysis of these relationships. While relationships with a power balance between partners do exist, relationships typically occur in the context of power asymmetry. This study examines how perceptions of power use and prevailing relationship quality in dyadic relationships characterized by substantial power asymmetry affect behavioral and operational outcomes. Hierarchical regression is used to analyze data from a dyadic survey of relationships of a brand‐name buying organization and its suppliers. Results indicate that power use affects partner behavior and operational performance, but the nature of the relationship dictates which power sources are most appropriate. In addition, the mediation effect of power imbalance shows that both relational and transactional factors can play an important role in supply chain exchanges.
Erosion of Inflatable Penile Prosthesis Reservoir into Neobladder
Authors: Tran Christine N. , Boncher Nicholas , Montague Drogo K. , Angermeier Kenneth W.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Erosion of the reservoir into surrounding tissues is a rare complication after inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) implantation.

Aim

To present a new case and a review of the literature including discussion of pathogenesis, risk factors, and management options.

Methods

We present the case of a 75-year-old male who underwent placement of an IPP for postoperative erectile dysfunction with a history of bladder cancer requiring radical cystoprostatectomy and Studer neobladder. Six years after IPP placement, he presented with recurrent febrile urinary tract infection that seemed to be precipitated by cycling of his penile prosthesis. Cystoscopy and cross-sectional computed tomography imaging demonstrated erosion of the inflatable penile prosthesis reservoir into the neobladder.

Results

Patient underwent open removal of the IPP reservoir and cystorrhaphy with a plan for future prefascial reimplantation of an IPP reservoir.

Conclusions

In patients with a history of abdomino-pelvic surgery or radiation therapy, the retroperitoneal space may be extremely fibrotic and the transversalis fascia may have thickened. Potential intraoperative complications as well as reservoir erosion may be avoided by using a two-piece device or ectopic reservoir placement. Management options for reservoir erosion include explantation of the entire device as well as reservoir removal with salvage of remaining components.
Metformin Treatment Improves Erectile Function in an Angiotensin II Model of Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Labazi Hicham , Wynne Brandi M. , Tostes Rita , Webb R. Clinton
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Increased angiotensin II (AngII) levels cause hypertension, which is a major risk factor for erectile dysfunction (ED). Studies have demonstrated that increased AngII levels in penile tissue are associated with ED. A recent study showed that metformin treatment restored nitric oxide synthase (NOS) protein expression in penile tissue in obese rats; however, whether metformin treatment can be beneficial and restore erectile function in a model of ED has not yet been established.

Aim

The goal of this study was to test the hypothesis that AngII induces ED by means of increased corpus cavernosum contraction, and that metformin treatment will reverse ED in AngII-treated rats.

Methods

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were implanted with mini-osmotic pumps containing saline or AngII (70ng/minute, 28 days). Animals were then treated with metformin or vehicle during the last week of AngII infusion.

Main Outcome Measures

Intracavernosal pressure; corpus cavernosum contraction and relaxation; nNOS protein expression; extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2), AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), and eNOS protein expression and phosphorylation.

Results

AngII-induced ED was accompanied with an increase in corpus cavernosum contractility, decreased nitrergic relaxation, and increased ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Metformin treatment improved erectile function in the AngII-treated rats by reversing the increased contraction and decreased relaxation. Metformin treatment also resulted in an increase in eNOS phosphorylation at ser1177.

Conclusions

Metformin treatment increased eNOS phosphorylation and improved erectile function in AngII hypertensive rats by reestablishing normal cavernosal smooth muscle tone.
An Oral Formulation of Angiotensin-(1-7) Reverses Corpus Cavernosum Damages Induced by Hypercholesterolemia
Authors: Fraga-Silva Rodrigo A. , Costa-Fraga Fabiana P. , Savergnini Silvia Q. , De Sousa Frederico B. , Montecucco Fabrizio , da Silva Daniele , Sinisterra Ruben D. , Mach François , Stergiopulos Nikolaos , da Silva Rafaela F. , Santos Robson A.S.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

The renin angiotensin system plays a crucial role in erectile function. It has been shown that elevated angiotensin-II levels contribute to the development of erectile dysfunction (ED). Oppositely, angiotensin-(1-7) (Ang-[1-7]) mediates penile erection by activation of receptor Mas. Recently, we have developed a formulation based on Ang-(1-7) inclusion in cyclodextrin (CyD) [Ang-(1-7)-CyD], which allows for the oral administration of Ang-(1-7).

Aim

In the present study, we evaluated the effects of chronic treatment with Ang-(1-7)-CyD on penile fibrosis, oxidative stress, and endothelial function in hypercholesterolemic mice.

Methods

Apolipoprotein(Apo)E−/− mice fed a Western-type diet for 11 weeks received Ang-(1-7)-CyD or vehicle during the final 3 weeks. Collagen content and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production within the corpus cavernosum were evaluated by Sirius red and dihydroethidium staining, respectively. Protein expression of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) subunits (p67-phox and p22-phox), and AT1 and Mas receptors in the penis was assessed by Western blotting. Nitric oxide (NO) production was measured by Griess assay in the mice serum. Cavernosal strips were mounted in an isometric organ bath to evaluate the endothelial function.

Main Outcome Measures

The effect of Ang-(1-7)-CyD treatment on penile fibrosis, oxidative stress, and endothelial function in hypercholesterolemia-induced ED.

Results

Ang-(1-7)-CyD treatment reduced collagen content in the corpus cavernosum of ApoE−/− mice. This effect was associated with an attenuation of ROS production and a diminished expression of NADPH. Furthermore, Ang-(1-7)-CyD treatment augmented the expression of nNOS and eNOS in the penis and elevated vascular NO production. Importantly, these effects were accompanied by an improvement in cavernosal endothelial function.

Conclusion

Long-term treatment with Ang-(1-7)-CyD reduces penile fibrosis associated with attenuation of oxidative stress. Additionally, cavernosal endothelial function in hypercholesterolemic mice was markedly improved. These results suggest that Ang-(1-7)-CyD might have significant therapeutic benefits for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
Exportin 4 gene expression and DNA promoter methylation status in chronic hepatitis B virus infection
Authors: Zhang F. , Fan Y.‐C. , Mu N.‐N , Zhao J. , Sun F.‐K. , Zhao Z.‐H. , Gao S. , Wang K.
Published: July 2013

Exportin 4 (XPO4) is a novel identified candidate tumour‐suppressor gene involved in the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study was aimed to determine the clinical features of XPO4 mRNA expression and promoter methylation status in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. PBMCs were isolated from 44 HCC, 38 liver cirrhosis (LC), 34 chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients and 17 healthy controls (HCs). The mRNA level and promoter methylation status of XPO4 were determined by quantitative real‐time RT‐PCR and methylation‐specific PCR, respectively. XPO4 mRNA level of HCC patients was significantly lower compared with LC and CHB patients as well as HCs (all P < 0.01, respectively), and significant differences of the XPO4 mRNA level were found in LC and CHB group than in HCs (LC vs HCs, P < 0.01; CHB vs HCs, P < 0.05). Methylation rate of XPO4 promoter was significantly increased in patients with HCC than in patients with CHB and HCs (both P < 0.05). DNA methylation pattern was responsible for the suppression of XPO4 transcription in the progression of HBV infection (P = 0.000). Furthermore, AFP level was significantly higher in HCC patients with XPO4 methylation than in those without methylation ((8702 ± 15635) μm vs (1052 ± 5370) μm, P < 0.05). In conclusion, transcription of XPO4 gene was gradually decreased and methylation rate of XPO4 promoter was increased with the progression of HBV infection. Methylation status of XPO4 in PBMCs tended to be a noninvasive biomarker to predict HCC and the progression of HBV infection.
Biomass and estimated production rates of metazoan zooplankton community in a tropical coral reef of Malaysia
Authors: Nakajima Ryota , Yoshida Teruaki , Othman Bin Haji Ross , Toda Tatsuki
Published: July 2013

Quantitative research on composition, biomass and production rates of zooplankton community is crucial to understand the trophic structure in coral reef pelagic ecosystems. In the present study, micro‐ (35–100 μm) and net‐ (>100 μm) metazooplankton were investigated in a fringing coral reef at Tioman Island of Malaysia. Sampling was done during the day and night in August and October 2004, and February and June 2005. The mean biomass of total metazooplankton (i.e. micro + net) was 3.42 ± 0.64 mg C·m−3, ranging from 2.32 ± 0.75 mg C·m−3 in October to 3.26 ± 1.77 mg C·m−3 in August. The net‐zooplankton biomass exhibited a nocturnal increase from daytime at 131–264% due to the addition of both pelagic and reef‐associated zooplankton into the water column. The estimated daily production rates of the total metazooplankton community were on average 1.80 ± 0.57 mg C·m−3·day−1, but this increased to 2.51 ± 1.06 mg C·m−3·day−1 if house production of larvaceans was taken into account. Of the total production rate, the secondary and tertiary production rates were 2.20 ± 1.03 and 0.30 ± 0.06 mg C·m−3·day−1, respectively. We estimated the food requirements of zooplankton in order to examine the trophic structure of the pelagic ecosystem. The secondary production may not be satisfied by phytoplankton alone in the study area and the shortfall may be supplied by other organic sources such as detritus.