bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Trial for Reducing Weight Retention in New Mums: a randomised controlled trial evaluating a low intensity, postpartum weight management programme
Authors: Wilkinson S. A. , van der Pligt P. , Gibbons K. S. , McIntyre H. D. 
Published: November 2013

AbstractBackgroundFailure to return to pregnancy weight by 6 months postpartum is associated with long‐term obesity, as well as adverse health outcomes. This research evaluated a postpartum weight management programme for women with a body mass index (BMI) > 25 kg m–2 that combined behaviour change principles and a low‐intensity delivery format with postpartum nutrition information.MethodsWomen were randomised at 24–28 weeks to control (supported care; SC) or intervention (enhanced care; EC) groups, stratified by BMI cohort. At 36 weeks of gestation, SC women received a ‘nutrition for breastfeeding' resource and EC women received a nutrition assessment and goal‐setting session about post‐natal nutrition, plus a 6‐month correspondence intervention requiring return of self‐monitoring sheets. Weight change, anthropometry, diet, physical activity, breastfeeding, fasting glucose and insulin measures were assessed at 6 weeks and 6 months postpartum.ResultsSeventy‐seven percent (40 EC and 41 SC) of the 105 women approached were recruited; 36 EC and 35 SC women received a programme and 66.7% and 48.6% completed the study, respectively. No significant differences were observed between any outcomes. Median [interquartile range (IQR)] weight change was EC: −1.1 (9.5) kg versus SC: −1.1 (7.5) kg (6 weeks to 6 months) and EC: +1.0 (8.7) kg versus SC: +2.3 (9) kg (prepregnancy to 6 months). Intervention women breastfed for half a month longer than control women (180 versus 164 days; P = 0.10). An average of 2.3 out of six activity sheets per participant was returned.ConclusionsDespite low intervention engagement, the high retention rate suggests this remains an area of interest to women. Future strategies must facilitate women's engagement, be individually tailored, and include features that support behaviour change to decrease women's risk of chronic health issues.
Enhanced synthesis and release of dopamine in transgenic mice with gain‐of‐function α6* nAChRs
Authors: Wang Yuexiang , Lee Jang‐Won , Oh Gyeon , Grady Sharon R. , McIntosh J. Michael , Brunzell Darlene H. , Cannon Jason R. , Drenan Ryan M. 
Published: November 2013

Abstractα6β2* nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs)s in the ventral tegmental area to nucleus accumbens (NAc) pathway are implicated in the response to nicotine, and recent work suggests these receptors play a role in the rewarding action of ethanol. Here, we studied mice expressing gain‐of‐function α6β2* nAChRs (α6L9′S mice) that are hypersensitive to nicotine and endogenous acetylcholine. Evoked extracellular dopamine (DA) levels were enhanced in α6L9′S NAc slices compared to control, non‐transgenic (non‐Tg) slices. Extracellular DA levels in both non‐Tg and α6L9′S slices were further enhanced in the presence of GBR12909, suggesting intact DA transporter function in both mouse strains. Ongoing α6β2* nAChR activation by acetylcholine plays a role in enhancing DA levels, as α‐conotoxin MII completely abolished evoked DA release in α6L9′S slices and decreased spontaneous DA release from striatal synaptosomes. In HPLC experiments, α6L9′S NAc tissue contained significantly more DA, 3,4‐dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, and homovanillic acid compared to non‐Tg NAc tissue. Serotonin (5‐HT), 5‐hydroxyindoleacetic acid, and norepinephrine (NE) were unchanged in α6L9′S compared to non‐Tg tissue. Western blot analysis revealed increased tyrosine hydroxylase expression in α6L9′S NAc. Overall, these results show that enhanced α6β2* nAChR activity in NAc can stimulate DA production and lead to increased extracellular DA levels.
imageUsing a transgenic mouse model, we studied nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) containing the α6 subunit and their role regulating dopamine (DA) synthesis and release in nucleus accumbens shell. Using a combination of biochemistry and electrophysiology techniques, we show that increased activity of α6‐containing nAChRs results in enhanced DA synthesis as well as increased extracellular DA levels following evoked release. These findings highlight the importance of α6 nAChRs in DA transmission, and indicate that compounds with pharmacological activity at these receptors may be useful smoking cessation therapeutics.
Fatty acid biosynthesis from glutamate and glutamine is specifically induced in neuronal cells under hypoxia
Authors: Brose Stephen A. , Marquardt Amanda L. , Golovko Mikhail Y. 
Published: November 2013

AbstractHypoxia is involved in many neuronal and non‐neuronal diseases, and defining the mechanisms for tissue adaptation to hypoxia is critical for the understanding and treatment of these diseases. One mechanism for tissue adaptation to hypoxia is increased glutamine and/or glutamate (Gln/Glu) utilization. To address this mechanism, we determined incorporation of Gln/Glu and other lipogenic substrates into lipids and fatty acids in both primary neurons and a neuronal cell line under normoxic and hypoxic conditions and compared this to non‐neuronal primary cells and non‐neuronal cell lines. Incorporation of Gln/Glu into total lipids was dramatically and specifically increased under hypoxia in neuronal cells including both primary (2.0‐ and 3.0‐fold for Gln and Glu, respectively) and immortalized cultures (3.5‐ and 8.0‐fold for Gln and Glu, respectively), and 90% to 97% of this increase was accounted for by incorporation into fatty acids (FA) depending upon substrate and cell type. All other non‐neuronal cells tested demonstrated decreased or unchanged FA synthesis from Gln/Glu under hypoxia. Consistent with these data, total FA mass was also increased in neuronal cells under hypoxia that was mainly accounted for by the increase in saturated and monounsaturated FA with carbon length from 14 to 24. Incorporation of FA synthesized from Gln/Glu was increased in all major lipid classes including cholesteryl esters, triacylglycerols, diacylglycerols, free FA, and phospholipids, with the highest rate of incorporation into triacylglycerols. These results indicate that increased FA biosynthesis from Gln/Glu followed by esterification may be a neuronal specific pathway for adaptation to hypoxia.
imageWe identified a novel neuronal specific pathway for adaptation to hypoxia through increased fatty acid biosynthesis from glutamine and glutamate (Gln/Glu) followed by esterification into lipids. All other non‐neuronal cells tested demonstrated decreased or unchanged lipid synthesis from Gln/Glu under hypoxia. Incorporation of other lipogenic substrates into lipids was decreased under hypoxia in neuronal cells. We believe that this finding will provide a novel strategy for treatment of oxygen and energy deficient conditions in the neuronal system.
Molecular, pharmacological, and signaling properties of octopamine receptors from honeybee (Apis mellifera) brain
Authors: Balfanz Sabine , Jordan Nadine , Langenstück Teresa , Breuer Johanna , Bergmeier Vera , Baumann Arnd 
Published: November 2013

AbstractG protein‐coupled receptors are important regulators of cellular signaling processes. Within the large family of rhodopsin‐like receptors, those binding to biogenic amines form a discrete subgroup. Activation of biogenic amine receptors leads to transient changes of intracellular Ca2+‐([Ca2+]i) or 3′,5′‐cyclic adenosine monophosphate ([cAMP]i) concentrations. Both second messengers modulate cellular signaling processes and thereby contribute to long‐lasting behavioral effects in an organism. In vivo pharmacology has helped to reveal the functional effects of different biogenic amines in honeybees. The phenolamine octopamine is an important modulator of behavior. Binding of octopamine to its receptors causes elevation of [Ca2+]i or [cAMP]i. To date, only one honeybee octopamine receptor that induces Ca2+ signals has been molecularly and pharmacologically characterized. Here, we examined the pharmacological properties of four additional honeybee octopamine receptors. When heterologously expressed, all receptors induced cAMP production after binding to octopamine with EC50s in the nanomolar range. Receptor activity was most efficiently blocked by mianserin, a substance with antidepressant activity in vertebrates. The rank order of inhibitory potency for potential receptor antagonists was very similar on all four honeybee receptors with mianserin >> cyproheptadine > metoclopramide > chlorpromazine > phentolamine. The subroot of octopamine receptors activating adenylyl cyclases is the largest that has so far been characterized in arthropods, and it should now be possible to unravel the contribution of individual receptors to the physiology and behavior of honeybees.
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The biogenic amine octopamine is an important modulator of behavior and physiology in arthropods. Binding of octopamine to specific G protein‐coupled receptors causes elevation of [Ca2+]i or [cAMP]i. Only one honeybee octopamine receptor inducing Ca2+ signals has been experimentally characterized, yet. Here, we present the pharmacological properties of four additional members of the honeybee octopamine receptor family causing cAMP production.
The rhythm of retinoids in the brain
Authors: Ransom Jemma , Morgan Peter J. , McCaffery Peter J. , Stoney Patrick N. 
Published: November 2013

AbstractThe retinoids are a family of compounds that in nature are derived from vitamin A or pro‐vitamin A carotenoids. An essential part of the diet for mammals, vitamin A has long been known to be essential for many organ systems in the adult. More recently, however, they have been shown to be necessary for function of the brain and new discoveries point to a central role in processes ranging from neuroplasticity to neurogenesis. Acting in several regions of the central nervous system including the eye, hippocampus and hypothalamus, one common factor in its action is control of biological rhythms. This review summarizes the role of vitamin A in the brain; its action through the metabolite retinoic acid via specific nuclear receptors, and the regulation of its concentration through controlled synthesis and catabolism. The action of retinoic acid to regulate several rhythms in the brain and body, from circadian to seasonal, is then discussed to finish with the importance of retinoic acid in the regular pattern of sleep.
imageWe review the role of vitamin A and retinoic acid (RA) as mediators of rhythm in the brain. In the suprachiasmatic nucleus and hippocampus they control expression of circadian clock genes while in the cortex retinoic acid is required for delta oscillations of sleep. Retinoic acid is also central to a second rhythm that keeps pace with the seasons, regulating function in the hypothalamus and pineal gland.
Is the mTOR‐signalling cascade disrupted in Schizophrenia?
Authors: Gururajan Anand , van den Buuse Maarten 
Published: November 2013

AbstractThe mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signalling cascade is involved in the intracellular regulation of protein synthesis, specifically for proteins involved in controlling neuronal morphology and facilitating synaptic plasticity. Research has revealed that the activity of the mTOR cascade is influenced by several extracellular and environmental factors that have been implicated in schizophrenia. Therefore, there is reason to believe that one of the downstream consequences of dysfunction or hypofunction of these factors in schizophrenia is disrupted mTOR signalling and hence impaired protein synthesis. This results in abnormal neurodevelopment and deficient synaptic plasticity, outcomes which could underlie some of the positive, negative and cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia. This review will discuss the functional roles of the mTOR cascade and present evidence in support of a novel mTOR‐based hypothesis of the neuropathology of schizophrenia.
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During neurodevelopment, genetic and epigenetic factors can disrupt mTOR signalling which affects synthesis of proteins essential for correct neuronal growth and network connectivity. This renders the CNS particularly vulnerable to the effects of secondary factors during adolescence which increases the risk of developing schizophrenia in adulthood. This review discusses the functional roles of the mTOR cascade and presents evidence in support of a novel mTOR‐based hypothesis of the neuropathology of schizophrenia. Testing this hypothesis will advance our understanding of the aetiology of this illness and reveal novel therapeutic targets.
Activation of rhodopsin gene transcription in cultured retinal precursors of chicken embryo: role of Ca2+ signaling and hyperpolarization‐activated cation channels
Authors: Bernard Marianne , Dejos Camille , Bergès Thierry , Régnacq Matthieu , Voisin Pierre 
Published: November 2013

AbstractThis study reports that the spontaneous 50‐fold activation of rhodopsin gene transcription, observed in cultured retinal precursors from 13‐day chicken embryo, relies on a Ca2+‐dependent mechanism. Activation of a transiently transfected rhodopsin promoter (luciferase reporter) in these cells was inhibited (60%) by cotransfection of a dominant‐negative form of the cAMP‐responsive element‐binding protein. Both rhodopsin promoter activity and rhodopsin mRNA accumulation were blocked by Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent kinase II inhibitors, but not by protein kinase A inhibitors, suggesting a role of Ca2+ rather than cAMP. This was confirmed by the inhibitory effect of general and T‐type selective Ca2+ channel blockers. Oscillations in Ca2+ fluorescence (Fluo8) could be observed in 1/10 cells that activated the rhodopsin promoter (DsRed reporter). A robust and reversible inhibition of rhodopsin gene transcription by ZD7288 indicated a role of hyperpolarization‐activated channels (HCN). Cellular localization and developmental expression of HCN1 were compatible with a role in the onset of rhodopsin gene transcription. Together, the data suggest that the spontaneous activation of rhodopsin gene transcription in cultured retinal precursors results from a signaling cascade that involves the pacemaker activity of HCN channels, the opening of voltage‐gated Ca2+‐channels, activation of Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent kinase II and phosphorylation of cAMP‐responsive element‐binding protein.
imageRhodopsin gene expression in cultured retinal precursors from chicken embryo relies on a Ca2+‐dependent mechanism whereby hyperpolarization‐activated cyclic nucleotide‐gated channels (HCN) activate T‐type voltage‐dependent Ca2+ channels (VDCC) through membrane depolarization, causing calmodulin‐dependent kinase II (CaMKII) to phosphorylate the cAMP‐responsive element‐binding protein (CREB) and leading to activation of rhodopsin gene transcription. Photoreceptor localization and development of HCN1 channels suggest similar role in vivo.
Joint shape morphogenesis precedes cavitation of the developing hip joint
Authors: Nowlan Niamh C. , Sharpe James 
Published: November 2013

AbstractThe biology and mechanobiology of joint cavitation have undergone extensive investigation, but we have almost no understanding of the development of joint shape. Joint morphogenesis, the development of shape, has been identified as the ‘least understood aspect of joint formation’ (2005, Birth Defects Res C Embryo Today 75, 237), despite the clinical relevance of shape morphogenesis to postnatal skeletal malformations such as developmental dysplasia of the hip. In this study, we characterise development of early hip joint shape in the embryonic chick using direct capture 3D imaging. Contrary to formerly held assumptions that cavitation precedes morphogenesis in joint development, we have found that the major anatomical features of the adult hip are present at Hamburger Hamilton (HH)32, a full day prior to cavitation of the joint at HH34. We also reveal that the pelvis undergoes significant changes in orientation with respect to the femur, despite the lack of a joint cavity between the rudiments. Furthermore, we have identified the appearance of the ischium and pubis several developmental stages earlier than was previously reported, illustrating the value and importance of direct capture 3D imaging.
Assessment of Perfusion Deficits in Ischemic Stroke Using 3D‐GRASE Arterial Spin Labeling Magnetic Resonance Imaging with Multiple Inflow Times
Authors: Wolf Marc E. , Layer Vanessa , Gregori Johannes , Griebe Martin , Szabo Kristina , Gass Achim , Hennerici Michael G. , Günther Matthias , Kern Rolf 
Published: November 2013

ABSTRACTBACKGROUND AND PURPOSEArterial spin labeling (ASL) MRI provides information on tissue perfusion by consecutive readout of labeled blood captured in arteries or the microvasculature without using contrast agents.METHODSWe used a single‐shot 3D acquisition and readout technique for ASL with multiple inflow times (TI) to evaluate hemodynamic compromise and dynamics of arterial blood inflow expressed by the bolus arrival time (BAT). Thirty‐six patients with ischemic stroke were examined with a standard multimodal MRI protocol including dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC) and multi‐TI ASL perfusion imaging. Time‐to‐peak maps were used to classify hemodynamic impairment as either hypo‐ or hyperperfusion.RESULTSOverall there was a good agreement of ASL perfusion maps with DSC perfusion imaging on visual analysis. Correlations were found between ASL‐BAT/(DSC‐)Mean transit time (MTT) (r = .416; P < .01) and ASL‐CBF/MTT (r = –.489; P < .01). Using ASL, BAT in ischemic territory was delayed by 55% (P = .001) in patients with hypoperfusion (n = 28); CBF was reduced by 39% (P<.001). All patients with hyperperfusion (n = 6) had higher CBF on ASL.CONCLUSIONSThe use of ASL with multiple TI allows the contrast‐free assessment of hemodynamic impairment in ischemic stroke patients. Quantitative ASL perfusion analysis reliably demonstrates areas of delayed BAT and reduced CBF matching findings of DSC.
Stenting and Angioplasty for Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension: A Case Series with Clinical, Angiographic, Ophthalmological, Complication, and Pressure Reporting
Authors: Teleb Mohamed S. , Cziep Matthew E. , Issa Mohammad , Lazzaro Marc , Asif Kaiz , Hun Hong Sang , Lynch John R. , Fitzsimmons Brian‐Fred M. , Remler Bernd F. , Zaidat Osama O. 
Published: November 2013

ABSTRACTBACKGROUNDPrevious studies have demonstrated that cerebral dural sinus stenosis (DSS) may be a potential patho‐physiological cause of idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). Endovascular therapy for DSS is emerging as a potential alternative to treat IIH. Here, we present the results of our case series.METHODWe prospectively collected angiographic and manometric data on patients that underwent angioplasty/stenting for IIH. All patients had failed maximal medical therapy (MMT) and had confirmed sinus stenosis. Demographic, clinical and radiological presentation, and outcomes were collected retrospectively.RESULTSA total of 18 patients underwent 25 procedures. Demographics revealed a mean age of 30 (range 15‐59), 83% (15/18) were female, 72% (13/18) were white, and mean body mass index of 36 (range 23‐59.2). All patients presented with classic IIH. Symptom improvement or resolution was reported in 94% (17/18) of patients. All patients had resolution and/or stabilization/improvement of their papilledema. Headaches related to increased pressure improved in 56% (10/18). Re‐stenosis and retreatment occurred in 33% (6/18). No procedural related complications were reported.CONCLUSIONDural sinus angioplasty and stenting is relatively safe, feasible, and clinically efficacious for patients with symptomatic sinus stenosis who have failed standard therapy. The long‐term durability of patency and clinical improvement remains unknown.
Burnout and Mental Health in Swiss Vocational Students: The Moderating Role of Physical Activity
Authors: Gerber Markus , Lang Christin , Feldmeth Anne Karina , Elliot Catherine , Brand Serge , Holsboer‐Trachsler Edith , Pühse Uwe 
Published: November 2013

Few studies have focused on burnout among vocational students. This study examined the association between burnout and mental health among 56 Swiss vocational students (29 males, 27 females, M = 18.1, SD = 1.2 years) and tested whether recommended levels of moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (MVPA) attenuate this relationship. Burnout was strongly associated with increased depressive symptoms and decreased levels of life satisfaction, mental toughness, and quality of sleep. Students above recommended levels of MVPA reported lower burnout and higher mental health. No significant moderator effects were observed. Symptoms of burnout were associated with increased mental health problems. Physical activity should be promoted to prevent burnout, because nearly half of the students did not meet MVPA recommendations.
Fecal Microbiota of Cats with Naturally Occurring Chronic Diarrhea Assessed Using 16S rRNA Gene 454‐Pyrosequencing before and after Dietary Treatment
Authors: Ramadan Z. , Xu H. , Laflamme D. , Czarnecki‐Maulden G. , Li Q.J. , Labuda J. , Bourqui B. 
Published: November 2013

BackgroundThe gastrointestinal (GI) microbiota has a strong impact on the health of cats and these populations can be altered in GI disease. Little research has been done to associate improvement in diarrhea with changes in GI microbiota.ObjectiveTo evaluate GI microbiota changes associated with diet change and related improvement in diarrhea in cats with chronic naturally occurring diarrhea.AnimalsFifteen adult Domestic Shorthair cats with naturally occurring chronic diarrhea.MethodsControlled crossover dietary trial for management of diarrhea. Fecal microbiome was assessed using 454‐pyrosequencing. Relationships among fecal score (FS), diet, and microbiome were explored using partial least square method, partial least square method – discriminant analysis, and orthogonal partial least square method with discriminant analysis (OPLS‐DA).ResultsDominant bacterial phyla included the Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes, followed by Fusobacteria, Proteobacteria, Tenericutes, and Actinobacteria. Orthogonal partial least squares (OPLS‐DA) clustering showed significant microbial differences within cats when fed Diet X versus Diet Y, and with Diet Y versus baseline. Significant correlations were found between the microbiome and FSs. Those bacteria with the strongest correlation with FS included Coriobacteriaceae Slackia spp., Campylobacter upsaliensis, Enterobacteriaceae Raoultella spp., Coriobacteriaceae Collinsella spp., and bacteria of unidentified genera within the families of Clostridiales Lachnospiracea and Aeromonadales Succinivibrionacease, suggesting that increased numbers of these organisms may be important to gut health.Conclusions and Clinical ImportanceAlterations in intestinal microbiota were associated with improvement in diarrhea, but, from our data we cannot conclude if changes in the microbiome caused the improvement in diarrhea, or vice versa.