Mutations in NNT encoding nicotinamide nucleotide transhydrogenase cause familial glucocorticoid deficiency

Using targeted exome sequencing, we identified mutations in NNT, an antioxidant defense gene, in individuals with familial glucocorticoid deficiency. In mice with Nnt loss, higher levels of adrenocortical cell apoptosis and impaired glucocorticoid production were observed. NNT knockdown in a human adrenocortical cell line resulted in impaired redox potential and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Our results suggest that NNT may have a role in ROS detoxification in human adrenal glands.     

GPS monitoring of the crustal motion in southwestern China

Through GPS carrier phases observation in southwestern China during 1991–1997, the velocity field within eastern Qinghai-Xizang (Tibet) and its neighbour regions has been established. The velocity of those sites in and west of Chuan-Dian block is mostly 5–10 mm · a^™1 relative to the fiduciary station CHDU (Chengdu), and the motion in Chuan-Qing and Yangtze blocks east of the Xianshuihe-Xiaojiang fault is weak with a velocity of about 0–7 mm · a⁻¹. The velocity vector in these areas indicates a clockwise rotation vortex rather than the so-called intensive eastward pushing or eastward escape. The main pattern of the crustal deformation is a clockwise rotation vortex structure and a differential slip along the boundary fault between different blocks.     

Failure to SV40-transformed lizard cells to induce tumors in autogeneic or allogeneic hosts.

Lizard cells from the tails of geckos were readily morphologically and antigenically transformed in vitro by SV40 virus. Neither autografts of these cells nor allografts of SV40 transformed gecko embryo cells produced tumors in animals under observation for 1 to 3 years.     

The alpha-kinase family: an exceptional branch on the protein kinase tree

The alpha-kinase family represents a class of atypical protein kinases that display little sequence similarity to conventional protein kinases. Early studies on myosin heavy chain kinases in Dictyostelium discoideum revealed their unusual propensity to phosphorylate serine and threonine residues in the context of an alpha-helix. Although recent studies show that some members of this family can also phosphorylate residues in non-helical regions, the name alpha-kinase has remained. During evolution, the alpha-kinase domains combined with many different functional subdomains such as von Willebrand factor-like motifs (vWKa) and even cation channels (TRPM6 and TRPM7). As a result, these kinases are implicated in a large variety of cellular processes such as protein translation, Mg²⁺ homeostasis, intracellular transport, cell migration, adhesion, and proliferation. Here, we review the current state of knowledge on different members of this kinase family and discuss the potential use of alpha-kinases as drug targets in diseases such as cancer.     

Some spatial and behavioral features of the thirteen-lined ground squirrel

Some relationships between home range, agonistic behavior, and reproductive patterns in thirteen-lined ground squirrels were investigated in Laramie Plains, Wyoming (August 1966–April 1969). Population size and densities fluctuated seasonally and annually. Adult male (N = 7) home ranges averaged 0.24 ha and were smaller than those of the female (N = 9), which averaged 0.35 ha. Agonistic interactions were more frequent during the natal period (late May–June) than during the breeding-gestation period (mid April–May). Most squirrels (86 percent) shared capture sites and had overlapping home ranges. However, a certain degree of spacing existed because of agonistic behavior.     

Additional black-footed ferret ( Mustela nigripes ) reports from Wyoming

Thirty-nine previously unpublished reports of the endangered black-footed ferret from Wyoming are listed with dates, locations, number of animals, sources, and comments.