bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A mitochondrial-targeted cyclosporin A with high binding affinity for cyclophilin D yields improved cytoprotection of cardiomyocytes
Authors: Dube Henry , Selwood David , Malouitre Sylvanie , Capano Michela , Simone Michela I. , Crompton Martin 
Published: October 2011

Mitochondrial CyP-D (cyclophilin-D) catalyses formation of the PT (permeability transition) pore, a key lesion in the pathogenesis of I/R (ischaemia/reperfusion) injury. There is evidence [Malouitre, Dube, Selwood and Crompton (2010) Biochem. J. 425, 137–148] that cytoprotection by the CyP inhibitor CsA (cyclosporin A) is improved by selective targeting to mitochondria. To investigate this further, we have developed an improved mtCsA (mitochondrial-targeted CsA) by modifying the spacer linking the CsA to the TPP+ (triphenylphosphonium) (mitochondrial-targeting) cation. The new mtCsA exhibits an 18-fold increase in binding affinity for CyP-D over the prototype and a 12-fold increase in potency of inhibition of the PT in isolated mitochondria, owing to a marked decrease in non-specific binding. The cytoprotective capacity was assessed in isolated rat cardiomyocytes subjected to transient glucose and oxygen deprivation (pseudo-I/R). The new mtCsA was maximally effective at lower concentrations than CsA (3–15 nM compared with 50–100 nM) and yielded improved cytoprotection for up to 3 h following the pseudo-ischaemic insult (near complete compared with 40%). These data indicate the potential value of selective CyP-D inhibition in cytoprotection.
Alternative splicing of the neurofibromatosis type I pre-mRNA
Authors: Barron Victoria A. , Lou Hua 
Published: October 2011

NF1 (neurofibromatosis type I) is a common genetic disease that affects one in 3500 individuals. The disease is completely penetrant but shows variable phenotypic expression in patients. NF1 is a large gene, and its pre-mRNA undergoes alternative splicing. The NF1 protein, neurofibromin, is involved in diverse signalling cascades. One of the best characterized functions of NF1 is its function as a Ras-GAP (GTPase-activating protein). NF1 exon 23a is an alternative exon that lies within the GAP-related domain of neurofibromin. This exon is predominantly included in most tissues, and it is skipped in CNS (central nervous system) neurons. The isoform in which exon 23a is skipped has 10 times higher Ras-GAP activity than the isoform in which exon 23a is included. Exon 23a inclusion is tightly regulated by at least three different families of RNA-binding proteins: CELF {CUG-BP (cytosine-uridine-guanine-binding protein) and ETR-3 [ELAV (embryonic lethal abnormal vision)-type RNA-binding protein]-like factor}, Hu and TIA-1 (T-cell intracellular antigen 1)/TIAR (T-cell intracellular antigen 1-related protein). The CELF and Hu proteins promote exon 23a skipping, while the TIA-1/TIAR proteins promote its inclusion. The widespread clinical variability that is observed among NF1 patients cannot be explained by NF1 mutations alone and it is believed that modifier genes may have a role in the variability. We suggest that the regulation of alternative splicing may act as a modifier to contribute to the variable expression in NF1 patients.
Corrosion protection with eco-friendly inhibitors
Authors: Shahid Muhammad 
Published: October 2011

AbstractCorrosion occurs as a result of the interaction of a metal with its environment. The extent of corrosion depends on the type of metal, the existing conditions in the environment and the type of aggressive ions present in the medium. For example,CO3−2andNO−3produce an insoluble deposit on the surface of iron, resulting in the isolation of metal and consequent decrease of corrosion. On the other hand, halide ions are adsorbed selectively on the metal surface and prevent formation of the oxide phase on the metal surface, resulting in continuous corrosion. Iron, aluminum and their alloys are widely used, both domestically and industrially. Linear alkylbenzene and linear alkylbenzene sulfonate are commonly used as detergents. They have also been found together in waste water. It is claimed that these chemicals act as inhibitors for stainless steel and aluminum. Release of toxic gases as a result of corrosion in pipelines may lead in certain cases to air pollution and possible health hazards. Therefore, there are two ways to look at the relationship between corrosion and pollution: (i) corrosion of metals and alloys due to environmental pollution and (ii) environmental pollution as a result of corrosion protection. This paper encompasses the two scenarios and possible remedies for various cases, using ‘green’ inhibitors obtained either from plant extracts or from pharmaceutical compounds. In the present study, the effect of piperacillin sodium as a corrosion inhibitor for mild steel was investigated using a weight-loss method as well as a three-electrode dc electrochemical technique. It was found that the corrosion rate decreased as the concentration of the inhibitor increased up to 9×10−4 M; 93% efficiency was exhibited at this concentration.
The synthesis of BaMgAl10O17:Eu2+ nanopowder by a combustion method and its luminescent properties
Authors: Nguyen Manh Son , Ho Van Tuyen , Pham Nguyen Thuy Trang 
Published: October 2011

Abstract
Europium ion doped BaMgAl
10
O
17 blue phosphor nanopowder has been fabricated by urea–nitrate solution combustion synthesis at 590 °C for 5 min. These phosphors were codoped with different europium ion concentrations (1–8 mol%). The experimental results of x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and photoluminescence showed that the phosphors have a hexagonal single phase structure, the average particle size of the powders was about 50 nm and the emission spectra have a broad band with maximum intensity at wavelength λ
max
=455 nm due to transitions from the 4f
65d
1 to the 4f
7 electronic configuration of Eu
2+ ion. The maximum emission of phosphor corresponds to the europium concentration 7 mol%.
Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis: A case report and review on Japanese patients
Authors: MATSUMOTO Yuka , MITSUHASHI Yoshihiko , MONMA Fumiko , KAWAGUCHI Masakazu , SUZUKI Tamio , MIYABE Chie , IGARASHI Atsuyuki , TSUBOI Ryoji 
Published: October 2011

ABSTRACTNephrogenic systemic fibrosis is a fibrosing disorder that affects patients with advanced renal dysfunction and is associated with gadolinium‐based contrast media. As the number of reports increase, it is becoming clear that its clinical course and symptoms are various. We describe a 14‐year‐old boy and 71‐year‐old man with nephrogenic systemic fibrosis and review the Japanese cases documented thus far. In Japan, there are only 10 cases definitely associated with gadolinium, whereas over 500 cases have been recorded worldwide. We found a remarkable difference in clinical signs among Japanese cases. Some cases showed keratotic papules or plaques on the extremities. This group tended to develop symptoms after a shorter interval following gadolinium exposure. The remainder of the cases presented glossy and smooth surfaces, with symptoms tending to develop after a longer interval following their last gadolinium exposure. The discrepancies between the actual and the estimated number of patients, and the various clinical manifestations can be explained by the comparatively smaller dosage of gadolinium‐based contrast agents commonly administrated in Japan, in contrast to the higher dosages administrated in the USA and Europe.
High microsatellite and mitochondrial diversity in Anatolian native horse breeds shows Anatolia as a genetic conduit between Europe and Asia
Authors: Koban E. , Denizci M. , Aslan O. , Aktoprakligil D. , Aksu S. , Bower M. , Balcioglu B. K. , Ozdemir Bahadir A. , Bilgin R. , Erdag B. , Bagis H. , Arat S. 
Published: October 2011

SummaryThe horse has been a food source, but more importantly, it has been a means for transport. Its domestication was one of the crucial steps in the history of human civilization. Despite the archaeological and molecular studies carried out on the history of horse domestication, which would contribute to conservation of the breeds, the details of the domestication of horses still remain to be resolved. We employed 21 microsatellite loci and mitochondrial control region partial sequences to analyse genetic variability within and among four Anatolian native horse breeds, Ayvacık Pony, Malakan Horse, Hınıs Horse and Canik Horse, as well as samples from indigenous horses of unknown breed ancestry. The aims of the study were twofold: first, to produce data from the prehistorically and historically important land bridge, Anatolia, in order to assess its role in horse domestication and second, to analyse the data from a conservation perspective to help the ministry improve conservation and management strategies regarding native horse breeds. Even though the microsatellite data revealed a high allelic diversity, 98% of the genetic variation partitioned within groups. Genetic structure did not correlate with a breed or geographic origin. High diversity was also detected in mtDNA control region sequence analysis. Frequencies of two haplogroups (HC and HF) revealed a cline between Asia and Europe, suggesting Anatolia as a probable connection route between the two continents. This first detailed genetic study on Anatolian horse breeds revealed high diversity among horse mtDNA haplogroups in Anatolia and suggested Anatolia’s role as a conduit between the two continents. The study also provides an important basis for conservation practices in Turkey.
Analysis of the Devonian (Frasnian) platform from Belgium: a multi‐faceted approach for basin evolution reconstruction
Authors: Da Silva Anne‐Christine , Boulvain Frédéric 
Published: October 2011

AbstractThis study undertakes a multi‐disciplinary approach (sedimentology, carbon isotopes, magnetic susceptibility and thickness distribution) to improve understanding of a major Palaeozoic carbonate platform, the Frasnian platform of Belgium. These combined techniques are used to reconstruct the platform history, which evolved in two main steps. During the first phase, the basin was strongly influenced by faulting, producing notable thickness and facies variations, with open ocean conditions, with good water circulation and no/or limited barrier reef. The second phase of platform development was less influenced by differential subsidence, as indicated by homogeneous facies distribution. However, this platform developed under restricted waters, with low circulation which is likely related to the development of a barrier reef.
Protective effects of kaerophyllin against liver fibrogenesis in rats
Authors: Lee Ting‐Fang , Lin Yun‐Lian , Huang Yi‐Tsau 
Published: October 2011

Eur J Clin Invest 2012; 42 (6): 607–616AbstractBackground  We previously demonstrated that kaerophyllin, a lignan, isolated from a widely used traditional Chinese herb, Bupleurum scorzonerifolium, leading to the inhibition of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation in vitro. This current study evaluated the in vivo role of kaerophyllin in protecting the liver against injury and fibrogenesis caused by thioacetamide (TAA) in rats and further explored the underlying mechanisms.Materials and methods  Liver fibrosis in Sprague‐Dawley rats was induced by intraperitoneal injection of TAA (200 mg/kg) twice per week for 6 weeks. Animals were divided into five groups: vehicle control, TAA control, TAA + low dose kaerophyllin, TAA + high dose kaerophyllin and TAA + curcumin groups. Kaerophyllin (10 or 30 mg/kg) or curcumin (150 mg/mL) was given by gavage twice per day consecutively for 4 weeks starting 2 weeks after TAA injection. Rat HSCs were used to investigate the anti‐inflammatory role of kaerophyllin against tumour necrosis factor α (TNF‐α) in vitro. Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ (PPAR‐γ) expression was knocked down in rat HSCs using PPAR‐γ small interfering RNAs.Results  Kaerophyllin significantly protected liver from injury by reducing serum aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase levels and by improving the histological architecture and fibrosis score. In addition, kaerophyllin suppressed inflammation by reducing the mRNA of TNF‐α, interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) and monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 (MCP‐1) genes. In HSCs, kaerophyllin elevated PPAR‐γ activity and reduced TNF‐α‐stimulated mRNA levels of intracellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1), MCP‐1 and IL‐1β genes, which were reversed by small interfering RNA knockdown of PPAR‐γ gene.Conclusions  Our results demonstrated that kaerophyllin protected the rat liver from TAA‐caused injury and fibrogenesis by suppressing hepatic inflammation and inhibiting HSC activation, possibly through upregulation of PPAR‐γ expression.
High genetic diversity of the endangered Iberian three‐spined stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) at the Mediterranean edge of its range
Authors: ARAGUAS R. M. , VIDAL O. , PLA C. , SANZ N. 
Published: October 2011

Summary1. The three‐spined stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) on the Iberian Peninsula is only distributed in freshwater habitats and has completely disappeared from most of its range, mainly as a consequence of habitat degradation and invasive fish introductions. Genetic investigations have shown that Mediterranean‐Adriatic sticklebacks constitute an evolutionarily significant unit. Here, we present the first genetic data for Iberian populations living on the southern edge of the stickleback’s range. We used microsatellite markers to study gene diversity, population structure and genetic demography of stickleback populations.2. High genetic differentiation among collections yielded a model of four genetically homogeneous units related to geography. The observed pattern of isolation by distance resulted mainly from the hydrographical pattern and limited gene flow among rivers. Moreover, low levels of gene diversity, high isolation and recent bottleneck events, which have led to small or even critical effective population sizes in several locations, could be explained by additional recent anthropogenic fragmentation.3. We defined at least four evolutionarily significant units threatened by habitat fragmentation in north‐eastern Iberian sticklebacks. Because they retain long evolutionary histories, these populations should be considered of high conservation priority, and urgent management measures should be implemented.
Genetic structure of a native cyprinid in a reservoir‐altered stream network
Authors: FRANSSEN NATHAN R. 
Published: October 2011

Summary1. Reservoirs modify riverine ecosystems worldwide, and often with deleterious impacts on native biota. The immediate effects of reservoirs on native fish species below dams and in impounded reaches have received considerable attention, but it is unclear how reservoirs may affect fish species at larger spatial and temporal scales. Documented declines of stream fish populations in direct tributaries of reservoirs suggest reservoir pools may reduce gene flow among historically connected populations.2. Because of increased predator densities in reservoirs and the extent of habitat alteration in impounded reaches, I predicted reservoir habitats would reduce gene flow among small‐bodied fish populations separated by reservoir habitat. I used microsatellite markers to assess the spatial genetic structure of populations of the red shiner (Cyprinella lutrensis), in a reservoir‐fragmented stream network (Lake Texoma, U.S.A.). I also tested the prediction that populations in two direct tributaries that have experienced population declines would have low genetic diversity. Individuals were collected from six sites upstream of the reservoir, three sites in the reservoir and three sites in direct tributaries of the reservoir during 2008 and 2009.3. Results indicate that most populations were isolated by distance with little divergence among populations. In one direct tributary population, however, there was substantial genetic divergence, and genetic diversity was significantly lower than in other populations. Gene flow also seemed to be lower in reservoir habitats than in intact stream habitats, suggesting reservoir habitats may be reducing gene flow among the reservoir‐separated populations. These results indicate that reservoirs may reduce gene flow among reservoir‐fragmented stream fish populations, altering the evolutionary trajectories of fragmented populations.
Evaluation of assisted colonization strategies under global change for a rare, fire‐dependent plant
Authors: REGAN HELEN M. , SYPHARD ALEXANDRA D. , FRANKLIN JANET , SWAB REBECCA M. , MARKOVCHICK LISA , FLINT ALAN L. , FLINT LORRAINE E. , ZEDLER PAUL H. 
Published: October 2011

AbstractAs a clear consensus is emerging that habitat for many species will dramatically reduce or shift with climate change, attention is turning to adaptation strategies to address these impacts. Assisted colonization is one such strategy that has been predominantly discussed in terms of the costs of introducing potential competitors into new communities and the benefits of reducing extinction risk. However, the success or failure of assisted colonization will depend on a range of population‐level factors that have not yet been quantitatively evaluated – the quality of the recipient habitat, the number and life stages of translocated individuals, the establishment of translocated individuals in their new habitat and whether the recipient habitat is subject to ongoing threats all will play an important role in population persistence. In this article, we do not take one side or the other in the debate over whether assisted colonization is worthwhile. Rather, we focus on the likelihood that assisted colonization will promote population persistence in the face of climate‐induced distribution changes and altered fire regimes for a rare endemic species. We link a population model with species distribution models to investigate expected changes in populations with climate change, the impact of altered fire regimes on population persistence and how much assisted colonization is necessary to minimize risk of decline in populations of Tecate cypress, a rare endemic tree in the California Floristic Province, a biodiversity hotspot. We show that assisted colonization may be a risk‐minimizing adaptation strategy when there are large source populations that are declining dramatically due to habitat contractions, multiple nearby sites predicted to contain suitable habitat, minimal natural dispersal, high rates of establishment of translocated populations and the absence of nonclimatic threats such as altered disturbance regimes. However, when serious ongoing threats exist, assisted colonization is ineffective.
Regulatory T cells play a role in T‐cell receptor CDR2 peptide regulation of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Buenafe Abigail C. , Andrew Shayne , Offner Halina , Vandenbark Arthur A. 
Published: October 2011

SummaryEliciting T‐cell receptor (TCR) ‐specific responsiveness has been known to provide an effective autoregulatory mechanism for limiting inflammation mediated by T effector cells. Our previous use of TCR peptides derived from the CDR3 regions of a pathogenic TCR effectively reversed ongoing experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in a humanized TCR transgenic model. In this study, we use the TCR BV8S2 CDR2 peptide in the non‐transgenic C57BL/6 EAE model to down‐regulate the heterogeneous TCR BV8S2+ MOG‐35‐55‐specific pathogenic T‐cell population and demonstrate successful treatment of EAE after disease onset. Suppression of disease was associated with reduced MOG‐35‐55‐specific and non‐specific T‐cell production of interleukin‐17a and interferon‐γ in the central nervous system, as well as reduced numbers of CD4+ and Foxp3+ T cells in the central nervous system. With the use of Foxp3‐GFP and Foxp3 conditional knockout mice, we demonstrate that the TCR CDR2 peptide treatment effect is dependent on the presence of Foxp3+ regulatory T cells and that regulatory T cell numbers are significantly expanded in the periphery of treated mice. Hence, TCR CDR2 peptide therapy is effective in regulating heterogeneous, pathogenic T‐cell populations through the activity of the Foxp3+ regulatory T cell population.
Early postnatal development of the mandibular permanent first molar in infants with isolated cleft palate
Authors: HERMANN NUNO V. , ZARGHAM MOSTAFA , DARVANN TRON A. , CHRISTENSEN IB J. , KREIBORG SVEN 
Published: October 2011

International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2012; 22: 280–285Background.  Based on measurements on dental casts, smaller permanent teeth in children with cleft palate have previously been reported in the literature; however, the early maturation of teeth and the size of the follicles and crowns have not been investigated.Hypothesis.  The maturation of the mandibular permanent first molar (M1inf) is delayed, and the mesiodistal diameters of the follicle and crown of M1inf, respectively, are reduced in children with isolated cleft palate (ICP).Design.  Retrospective, longitudinal. Cephalometric X‐rays were available for 2 and 22 months old children with clefts (64 children with ICP, and a control group of 38 children with unilateral incomplete cleft lip). The width of the follicle and the crown of M1inf, and the maturation of M1inf were assessed. Intra‐observer error was acceptable.Results.  M1inf maturation was delayed in children with ICP at both 2 and 22 months of age. The mesiodistal diameter of the crown of M1inf in the ICP group was reduced. Thus, the two hypotheses could not be refuted.Conclusions.  Children with ICP showed smaller dimensions of the M1inf, and in addition, the maturation of M1inf was delayed.
Spatial and temporal variation in pollinator effectiveness: do unmanaged insects provide consistent pollination services to mass flowering crops?
Authors: Rader Romina , Howlett Bradley G. , Cunningham Saul A. , Westcott David A. , Edwards Will 
Published: October 2011

Summary1. Recent declines in honeybee populations have focused attention on the potential for unmanaged insects to replace them as pollinators of food crops. The capacity of unmanaged pollinators to replace services currently provided by honeybees depends on the spatial and temporal variability of these services, but few quantitative assessments currently exist.2. We investigated spatial variation in pollinator importance by comparing pollinator efficiency and effectiveness in stigmatic pollen loads, stigmatic contact and visitation rate between honeybees and the seven most abundant unmanaged taxa in 2007. We assessed temporal variability in pollinator visitation using floral visits recorded three times a day over four consecutive years (2005–2008) in 43 ‘Pak Choi’Brassica rapa ssp. chinensis mass flowering fields in the Canterbury region of New Zealand. Further, we compared the aggregate effect of the unmanaged pollinator assemblage to the managed honeybee.3. Pak Choi was visited by many insect species that vary in abundance and effectiveness as pollen transfer agents. There was spatial variation in the four measures of pollinator importance. Pollen deposited on stigmas and flower visits per minute were not significantly different comparing the unmanaged assemblage to honeybees, although stigmatic contact and visitor abundance per number of open flowers were greater in honeybees.4. Unmanaged taxa were frequent visitors to the crop in all 4 years. The pooled services provided by the unmanaged assemblage did not differ within a day and were equal to or greater than those provided by honeybees in 2 of the 4 years. Pollinator importance changed little irrespective of the spatial and temporal variations among taxa.5. Synthesis and applications. The results of this study suggest that some unmanaged insect taxa are capable of providing consistent pollination services over a 4‐year period in a commercial mass flowering crop. As these taxa already contribute substantially to the pollination of food crops, they offer a safety net in the case of sudden collapse of managed honeybee hives. To optimize pollination services, we recommend pollinator‐specific farm management practices that consider the needs of both managed and unmanaged pollinator taxa.