bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Liraglutide Enhances Insulin Sensitivity by Activating AMP-Activated Protein Kinase in Male Wistar Rats
Authors: Yamazaki Satoru , Satoh Hiroaki , Watanabe Tsuyoshi 
Published: June 2014

Abstract
We investigated the effects of liraglutide on insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism in male Wistar rats. The rats were fed a normal chow diet (NCD) or a 60% high-fat diet (HFD) for a total of 4 weeks. After 3 weeks of feeding, they were injected with liraglutide once a day for 7 days. Subsequently, euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp studies were performed after fasting the animals for 8 hours. During the clamp studies on the NCD-fed rats, the glucose infusion rate required for euglycemia was significantly higher in the liraglutide group than in the control group. The clamp hepatic glucose output was significantly lower in the liraglutide group than in the control group, but the insulin-stimulated glucose disposal rate did not change significantly in the liraglutide groups. The clamp studies on the HFD-fed rats revealed that the glucose infusion rate required to achieve euglycemia was significantly higher in the liraglutide group than in the control HFD group, and the insulin-stimulated glucose disposal rate increased significantly in the liraglutide groups. The clamp hepatic glucose output decreased significantly in the liraglutide groups. Consistent with the clamp data, the insulin-stimulated phosphorylation of Akt and AMP-activated protein kinase was enhanced in the livers of the NCD- and HFD-fed rats and in the skeletal muscles of the HFD-fed rats. Oil red O staining indicated that liraglutide also improved hepatic steatosis. In summary, our studies suggest that in normal glucose tolerance states, liraglutide enhances insulin sensitivity in the liver but not in skeletal muscles. However, in insulin-resistant states, liraglutide improves insulin resistance in the liver and muscles and improves fatty liver.
The Vitamin D Receptor (VDR) Is Expressed in Skeletal Muscle of Male Mice and Modulates 25-Hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) Uptake in Myofibers
Authors: Girgis Christian M. , Mokbel Nancy , Cha Kuan Minn , Houweling Peter J. , Abboud Myriam , Fraser David R. , Mason Rebecca S. , Clifton-Bligh Roderick J. , Gunton Jenny E. 
Published: June 2014

AbstractVitamin D deficiency is associated with a range of muscle disorders, including myalgia, muscle weakness, and falls. In humans, polymorphisms of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene are associated with variations in muscle strength, and in mice, genetic ablation of VDR results in muscle fiber atrophy and motor deficits. However, mechanisms by which VDR regulates muscle function and morphology remain unclear. A crucial question is whether VDR is expressed in skeletal muscle and directly alters muscle physiology. Using PCR, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry (VDR-D6 antibody), we detected VDR in murine quadriceps muscle. Detection by Western blotting was dependent on the use of hyperosmolar lysis buffer. Levels of VDR in muscle were low compared with duodenum and dropped progressively with age. Two in vitro models, C2C12 and primary myotubes, displayed dose- and time-dependent increases in expression of both VDR and its target gene CYP24A1 after 1,25(OH)2D (1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D) treatment. Primary myotubes also expressed functional CYP27B1 as demonstrated by luciferase reporter studies, supporting an autoregulatory vitamin D-endocrine system in muscle. Myofibers isolated from mice retained tritiated 25-hydroxyvitamin D3, and this increased after 3 hours of pretreatment with 1,25(OH)2D (0.1nM). No such response was seen in myofibers from VDR knockout mice. In summary, VDR is expressed in skeletal muscle, and vitamin D regulates gene expression and modulates ligand-dependent uptake of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 in primary myofibers.
An Early Reduction in GH Peak Amplitude in Preproghrelin-Deficient Male Mice Has a Minor Impact on Linear Growth
Authors: Hassouna Rim , Zizzari Philippe , Tomasetto Catherine , Veldhuis Johannes D. , Fiquet Oriane , Labarthe Alexandra , Cognet Julie , Steyn Frederik , Chen Chen , Epelbaum Jacques , Tolle Virginie 
Published: June 2014

AbstractGhrelin is a gut hormone processed from the proghrelin peptide acting as the endogenous ligand of the GH secretagogue receptor 1a. The regulatory role of endogenous ghrelin on pulsatile GH secretion and linear growth had to be established. The aim of the present study was to delineate the endogenous actions of preproghrelin on peripheral and central components of the GH axis. Accordingly, the ultradian pattern of GH secretion was measured in young and old preproghrelin-deficient males. Blood samples were collected by tail bleeding every 10 minutes over a period of 6 hours. Analysis of the GH pulsatile pattern by deconvolution showed that GH was secreted in an ultradian manner in all genotypes, with major secretory peaks occurring at about 3-hour intervals. In older mice, the peak number was reduced and secretion was less irregular compared with younger animals. Remarkably, in young Ghrl−/− mice, the amplitude of GH secretory bursts was significantly reduced. In older mice, however, genotype differences were less significant. Changes in GH pulsatility in young Ghrl−/− mice were associated with a tendency for reduced GH pituitary contents and plasma IGF-I concentrations, but with only a minor impact on linear growth. In Ghrl+/− mice, despite reduced Acyl ghrelin to des-acyl ghrelin ratio, GH secretion was not impaired. Ghrelin deficiency was not associated with a reduction in hypothalamic GHRH content or altered response to GHRH stimulation. Therefore, reduction in GHRH production and/or sensitivity do not primarily account for the altered GH pulsatile secretion of young Ghrl−/− mice. Instead, GHRH expression was elevated in young but not old Ghrl−/− mice, suggesting that differential compensatory responses resulting from the absence of endogenous ghrelin is occurring according to age. These results show that endogenous ghrelin is a regulator of GH pulse amplitude in growing mice but does not significantly modulate linear growth.
The Sirtuin1 Activator SRT3025 Down-Regulates Sclerostin and Rescues Ovariectomy-Induced Bone Loss and Biomechanical Deterioration in Female Mice
Authors: Artsi Hanna , Cohen-Kfir Einav , Gurt Irina , Shahar Ron , Bajayo Alon , Kalish Noga , Bellido Teresita M. , Gabet Yankel , Dresner-Pollak Rivka 
Published: June 2014

Abstract
Estrogen deficiency leads to rapid bone loss and skeletal fragility. Sclerostin, encoded by the sost gene, and a product of the osteocyte, is a negative regulator of bone formation. Blocking sclerostin increases bone mass and strength in animals and humans. Sirtuin1 (Sirt1), a player in aging and metabolism, regulates bone mass and inhibits sost expression by deacetylating histone 3 at its promoter. We asked whether a Sirt1-activating compound could rescue ovariectomy (OVX)-induced bone loss and biomechanical deterioration in 9-week-old C57BL/6 mice. OVX resulted in a substantial decrease in skeletal Sirt1 expression accompanied by an increase in sclerostin. Oral administration of SRT3025, a Sirt1 activator, at 50 and 100 mg/kg·d for 6 weeks starting 6 weeks after OVX fully reversed the deleterious effects of OVX on vertebral bone mass, microarchitecture, and femoral biomechanical properties. Treatment with SRT3025 decreased bone sclerostin expression and increased cortical periosteal mineralizing surface and serum propeptide of type I procollagen, a bone formation marker. In vitro, in the murine long bone osteocyte-Y4 osteocyte-like cell line SRT3025 down-regulated sclerostin and inactive β-catenin, whereas a reciprocal effect was observed with EX-527, a Sirt1 inhibitor. Sirt1 activation by Sirt1-activating compounds is a potential novel pathway to down-regulate sclerostin and design anabolic therapies for osteoporosis concurrently ameliorating other metabolic and age-associated conditions.
A whispering bat that screams: bimodal switch of foraging guild from gleaning to aerial-hawking in the desert long-eared bat
Authors: Hackett Talya D. , Korine Carmi , Holderied Marc 
Published: June 2014

Abstract
Echolocating bats have historically been classified as either loud aerial-hawkers or whispering gleaners. Some bat species can forage in multiple ways and others have demonstrated limited flexibility in the amplitude of their echolocation calls. The desert long-eared bat, Otonycteris hemprichii, has been said to be a passive gleaning whispering bat preying on terrestrial arthropods such as scorpions. Using an acoustic tracking system we recorded individuals flying at foraging and drinking sites and compared their flight height, flight speed, call duration, pulse interval and source levels to gleaning individuals previously recorded using the same setup. We found differences in all variables with the strongest difference in source levels where bats called at a mean of 119 dBpeSPL (compared to 75 dBpeSPL when gleaning). Bat faecal analysis indicated that their diet differed from previous studies and that prey species were capable of flight. We conclude that the bats switched from passive gleaning to capturing airborne insects (aerial-hawking). While whispering bats have been known to opportunistically catch insects on the wing, in the present study we show a full bimodal switch between foraging guilds with the respective changes in source level to those typical of a true aerial-hawker.
Encoding properties of the mechanosensory neurons in the Johnston's organ of the hawk moth, Manduca sexta
Authors: Dieudonne Alexandre , Daniel Thomas L. , Sane Sanjay P. 
Published: June 2014

Abstract
Antennal mechanosensors play a key role in control and stability of insect flight. In addition to the well-established role of antennae as airflow detectors, recent studies have indicated that the sensing of antennal vibrations by Johnston’s organs also provides a mechanosensory feedback relevant for flight stabilization. However, few studies have addressed how the individual units, or scolopidia, of the Johnston's organs encode these antennal vibrations and communicate it to the brain. Here, we characterize the encoding properties of individual scolopidia from the Johnston’s organs in the hawk moth, Manduca sexta through intracellular neurophysiological recordings from axons of the scolopidial neurons. We stimulated the flagellum-pedicel joint using a custom setup that delivered mechanical stimuli of various (step, sinusoidal, frequency and amplitude sweeps) waveforms. Single units of the Johnston’s organs typically displayed phaso-tonic responses to step stimuli with short (3-5 ms) latencies. Their phase-locked response to sinusoidal stimuli in the 0.1–100 Hz frequency range showed high fidelity (vector strengths &gt;0.9). The neurons were able to encode different phases of the stimulus motion and are also extremely sensitive to small amplitude (&lt;0.05º) deflections with some indication of directional tuning. In many cases, the firing frequency of the neurons varied linearly as a function of the stimulus frequency at wing beat and double wing beat frequencies, which may be relevant to their role in flight stabiliization. Iontophoretic-fills of these neurons with fluorescent dyes showed that they all projected in the Antennal Mechanosensory and Motor Center (AMMC) area of the brain. Together, these results showcase the speed and high sensitivity of scolopidia of the Johnston’s organs, and hence their ability to encode fine antennal vibrations.
Effects of feeding on in vivo motility patterns in the proximal intestine of shorthorn sculpin (Myoxocephalus scorpius)
Authors: Brijs Jeroen , Hennig Grant , Axelsson Michael , Olsson Catharina 
Published: June 2014

Abstract
This is the first study to catalogue the diverse array of in vivo motility patterns in a teleost fish and how they are affected by feeding. Video recordings of exteriorised proximal intestine from fasted and fed shorthorn sculpin (Myoxocephalus scorpius) were used to generate spatio-temporal maps to portray and quantify motility patterns. Propagating and non-propagating contractions were observed to occur at different frequencies and durations. The most apparent difference between the feeding states was that bands of relatively high amplitude contractions propagating slowly in the anal direction were observed in all fasted fish (n=10) but only 35% of the fed fish (n=11). Additionally, fed fish displayed a reduced frequency (0.21±0.03 vs. 0.32±0.06 contractions per minute) and rhythmicity of these contractions compared to fasted fish. Although the underlying mechanisms of these slow anally-propagating contractions differ from mammalian MMCs, we believe that they may play a similar role in shorthorn sculpin during the interdigestive period, to potentially remove food remnants and prevent the establishment of pathogens. "Ripples" were the most prevalent contraction type in shorthorn sculpin and may be important during mixing and absorption. Persistence of shallow ripples and pendular movements of longitudinal muscle after TTX (1 µM) treatment suggests these contractions were myogenic in origin. The present study highlights both similarities and differences in motility patterns between shorthorn sculpin and other vertebrates, as well as providing a platform to examine other aspects of gastrointestinal functions in fish, including the impacts of environmental changes.
Hemolymph circulation in insect sensory appendages: functional mechanics of antennal accessory pulsatile organs (auxiliary hearts) in the mosquitoAnopheles gambiae
Authors: Boppana Sushma , Hillyer Julián F. 
Published: June 2014

AbstractMosquito antennae provide sensory input that modulates host seeking, mating and oviposition behaviors. Thus, mosquitoes must ensure the efficient transport of molecules into and out of these appendages. To accomplish this, mosquitoes and other insects have evolved antennal accessory pulsatile organs (APOs) that drive hemolymph into the antennal space. This study characterizes the structural mechanics of hemolymph propulsion throughout the antennae of Anopheles gambiae. Using intravital video imaging, we show that mosquitoes possess paired antennal APOs that are located on each side of the head's dorsal midline. They are situated between the frons and the vertex in an area that is dorsal to the antenna but ventral to the medial-most region of the compound eyes. Antennal APOs contract in synchrony at 1 Hz, which is 45% slower than the heart. By means of histology and intravital imaging, we show that each antennal APO propels hemolymph into the antenna through an antennal vessel that traverses the length of the appendage and has an effective diameter of 1-2 µm. When hemolymph reaches the end of the appendage, it is discharged into the antennal hemocoel and returns to the head. Because a narrow vessel empties into a larger cavity, hemolymph travels up the antenna at 0.2 mm/sec but reduces its velocity by 75% as it returns to the head. Finally, treatment of mosquitoes with the anesthetic agent FlyNap (triethylamine) increases both antennal APO and heart contraction rates. In summary, this study presents a comprehensive functional characterization of circulatory physiology in the mosquito antennae.
Green open access in computer science – an exploratory study on author-based self-archiving awareness, practice, and inhibitors
Authors: Graziotin Daniel 
Published: June 2014

Abstract
Access to the work of others is something that is too often taken for granted, yet problematic and difficult to be obtained unless someone pays for it. Green and gold open access are claimed to be a solution to this problem. While open access is gaining momentum in some fields, there is a limited and seasoned knowledge about self-archiving in computer science. In particular, there is an inadequate understanding of author-based self-archiving awareness, practice, and inhibitors. This article reports an exploratory study of the awareness of self-archiving, the practice of self-archiving, and the inhibitors of self-archiving among authors in an Italian computer science faculty. Forty-nine individuals among interns, PhD students, researchers, and professors were recruited in a questionnaire (response rate of 72.8%). The quantitative and qualitative responses suggested that there is still work needed in terms of advocating green open access to computer science authors who seldom self-archive and when they do, they often infringe the copyright transfer agreements (CTAs) of the publishers. In addition, tools from the open-source community are needed to facilitate author-based self-archiving, which should comprise of an automatic check of the CTAs. The study identified nine factors inhibiting the act of self-archiving among computer scientists. As a first step, this study proposes several propositions regarding author-based self-archiving in computer science that can be further investigated. Recommendations to foster self-archiving in computer science, based on the results, are provided.
Distinction of the Steinberg representation II: An equality of characters
Authors: Courtès François 
Published: June 2014

Abstract
In a previous paper, Broussous and the author prove that for symmetric spaces of the form G(E)/G(F), where G is a reductive group defined and split over a p-adic field F and E is an unramified quadratic extension of F, when the residual field of F is large enough, the Steinberg representation is ε-distinguished for a unique quadratic character ε of G(F). This proves a conjecture stated by Dipendra Prasad in 2001, under the assumption that ε is the same character as the character χ used in the statement of that conjecture. This article completes the proof of Prasad's conjecture in the unramified case assuming that G is split over F, by proving that we actually have

ε
=
χ

${\varepsilon =\chi }$

, and also extends the aforementioned distinguishedness result by removing the condition on the residual field.
Nash's Bargaining Formula Revisited
Authors: Gander James 
Published: June 2014

AbstractThe note consists of showing the marginal rates of substitution (MRS)
explicitly in Nash's product formula and contract curve given by the
Jacobian determinant, which otherwise are contained therein only
implicitly. Two simple examples from duopoly and bilateral monopoly
are used to show the MRS's explicitly in the mathematical structure of
the bargaining game. We learn from the note that, while the MRS's are
implicit in the mathematical structure of the game, the MRS's after
suitable transformation can be shown explicitly in the product formula
and contract curve. This MRS showing puts the structure of the game in
a context familiar to economists.
Effect of additive Al2 O3 powders on micro-arc oxide coating of magnesium alloy
Authors: Zhongcai Shao , Bing Kong 
Published: June 2014

Abstract
In order to understand the effect of additive Al2O3 powders on the film corrosion resistance and the microstructure of the micro-arc oxide (MAO) ceramic film of magnesium alloy, AZ91D die cast magnesium alloy was oxidized with a special micro-arc apparatus. Morphological characteristics and phase constituent of ceramic coatings were analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). And the aluminum (Al) element of before and after the Al2O3 accession were analyzed by energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX). The results showed that after adding Al2O3 powders, pores on ceramic coatings decreased, the loose layer became more compact, the new phase of Al2O3 appeared, and the Al element of the ceramic membrane increased. Ultrasonic waves promoted the content of Al2O3 in the layer. Electrochemical corrosion experiments in 3.5% NaCl solution showed that the corrosion resistance of ceramic coatings after adding Al2O3 powders was improved greatly.
Relationship between Overtime Work Hours and Cardio‐ankle Vascular Index (CAVI): A Cross‐sectional Study in Japan
Authors: Hata Koichi , Nakagawa Toru , Hasegawa Masayuki , Kitamura Hiroko , Hayashi Takeshi , Ogami Akira 
Published: June 2014

Relationship between Overtime Work Hours and Cardio‐ankle Vascular Index (CAVI): A Cross‐sectional Study in Japan: Koichi HATA, et al. Department of Work Systems and Health, Institute of Industrial Ecological Science, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan—ObjectivesThe purpose of this research was to evaluate the relationship between overtime work hours and CAVI, a new index of arterial stiffness.MethodsWe measured CAVI of Japanese workers (3,862 men) aged 26 to 59 years. Simultaneously, we obtained information on their monthly overtime work hours for the past few months using a self‐administered questionnaire, with responses divided into five groups: <45, ≥45 and <60, ≥60 and <80, ≥80 and <100 and ≥100 hours/month. We calculated the odds ratios of CAVI≥9.0 for each group of overtime work hours.ResultsIn the full sample, there was no significant association between the average CAVI and overtime work hours. Taking<45 overtime hours/month as the reference category, the odds ratios of CAVI≥9.0 were as follows: OR=1.11, 95% CI=0.73–1.69 (≥45 and <60 hours/month); OR=0.92, 95% CI=0.48–1.76 (≥60 and <80 hours/month); OR=1.50, 95% CI=0.50–4.49 (≥80 and <100 hours/month); and OR=2.65, 95% CI=0.82–8.54 (≥100 hours/month). However, for workers in their 50 s, the odds ratio of CAVI≥9.0 was significantly higher among subjects with≥100 hours/month than among those with<45 hours/month (OR=4.26, 95% CI=1.2–15.1)ConclusionsThe present study suggests that CAVI is more likely to be 9.0 or higher in workers in their 50 s when they work≥100 hours of overtime per month.
Changes in Laboratory Test Results and Diagnostic Imaging Presentation before the Detection of Occupational Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Kubo Shoji , Takemura Shigekazu , Sakata Chikaharu , Urata Yorihisa , Nishioka Takayoshi , Nozawa Akinori , Kinoshita Masahiko , Hamano Genya , Nakanuma Yasuni , Endo Ginji 
Published: June 2014

Changes in Laboratory Test Results and Diagnostic Imaging Presentation before the Detection of Occupational Cholangiocarcinoma: Shoji KUBO, et al. Department of Hepato‐Biliary‐Pancreatic Surgery, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine—ObjectivesA cholangiocarcinoma outbreak among workers of an offset color proof‐printing department in a printing company was recently reported. It is important to understand the clinical course leading to occupational cholangiocarcinoma development for investigation of the carcinogenesis process and for surveillance and early detection. We evaluated the changes in laboratory test results and diagnostic imaging presentation before the detection of cholangiocarcinoma.MethodsWe investigated the changes in laboratory test results and diagnostic imaging presentation before the detection of cholangiocarcinoma in 2 patients because the data were available.ResultsThe clinical courses observed in the 2 participating patients showed persistent elevation of serum γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase levels with or without elevated serum levels of alanine aminotransferase and/or aspartate aminotransferase before cholangiocarcinoma detection. Dilatation of the bile ducts without tumor‐induced stenosis was observed several years before cholangiocarcinoma detection and progressed gradually in both patients. The serum concentration of carbohydrate 19‐9 also increased prior to cholangiocarcinoma detection in both patients. Eventually, observation of stenosis of the bile duct and a space‐occupying lesion strongly suggested cholangiocarcinoma. Pathological examination of the resected specimens showed chronic bile duct injury and neoplastic lesions, such as “biliary intraepithelial neoplasia” and “intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct” in various sites of the bile ducts, particularly in the dilated bile ducts.ConclusionsThe changes in laboratory test results and diagnostic imaging might be related to the development of cholangiocarcinoma. It is important to monitor diagnostic imaging presentation and laboratory test results in workers with extended exposure to organic solvents.