bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrated Sampling Procedure for Metabolome Analysis
Authors: Schaub Jochen , Schiesling Carola , Reuss Matthias , Dauner Michael
Published: July 2006

Metabolome analysis, the analysis of large sets of intracellular metabolites, has become an important systems analysis method in biotechnological and pharmaceutical research. In metabolic engineering, the integration of metabolome data with fluxome and proteome data into large‐scale mathematical models promises to foster rational strategies for strain and cell line improvement. However, the development of reproducible sampling procedures for quantitative analysis of intracellular metabolite concentrations represents a major challenge, accomplishing (i) fast transfer of sample, (ii) efficient quenching of metabolism, (iii) quantitative metabolite extraction, and (iv) optimum sample conditioning for subsequent quantitative analysis. In addressing these requirements, we propose an integrated sampling procedure. Simultaneous quenching and quantitative extraction of intracellular metabolites were realized by short‐time exposure of cells to temperatures ≤95 °C, where intracellular metabolites are released quantitatively. Based on these findings, we combined principles of heat transfer with knowledge on physiology, for example, turnover rates of energy metabolites, to develop an optimized sampling procedure based on a coiled single tube heat exchanger. As a result, this sampling procedure enables reliable and reproducible measurements through (i) the integration of three unit operations into a one unit operation, (ii) the avoidance of any alteration of the sample due to chemical reagents in quenching and extraction, and (iii) automation. A sampling frequency of 5 s−1and an overall individual sample processing time faster than 30 s allow observing responses of intracellular metabolite concentrations to extracellular stimuli on a subsecond time scale. Recovery and reliability of the unit operations were analyzed. Impact of sample conditioning on subsequent IC‐MS analysis of metabolites was examined as well. The integrated sampling procedure was validated through consistent results from steady‐state metabolite analysis ofEscherichia colicultivated in a chemostat atD= 0.1 h−1.
Mountains in the shadows of time: Three‐dimensional density distribution mapping of U‐Pb isotopic data as a visualization aid for geochronological information in concordia diagrams
Authors: Sircombe K. N.
Published: July 2006

The salient features of a U‐Pb concordia diagram (e.g., 206Pb/238U versus 207Pb/235U or 238U/206Pb versus 207Pb/206Pb) such as local modes and relative discordance are frequently obscured in diagrams based on large sets of data. Simplifying and plotting the data as univariate ages can aid interpretation, but the discordance filtering of such data is arbitrary. A new approach is proposed where the individual analyses are treated as bivariate normal distributions and their values are summed across an x‐y grid to produce a three‐dimensional probability distribution. This distribution can then be contoured and color mapped to illustrate features relevant to a concordia line. The mathematical basis for this approach is discussed along with the description of a package using the open‐license R statistical package.
Overview of the coordinated ground‐based observations of Titan during the Huygens mission
Authors: Witasse Olivier , Lebreton Jean‐Pierre , Bird Michael K. , Dutta‐Roy Robindro , Folkner William M. , Preston Robert A. , Asmar Sami W. , Gurvits Leonid I. , Pogrebenko Sergei V. , Avruch Ian M. , Campbell Robert M. , Bignall Hayley E. , Garrett Michael A. , van Langevelde Huib Jan , Parsley Stephen M. , Reynolds Cormac , Szomoru Arpad , Reynolds John E. , Phillips Chris J. , Sault Robert J. , Tzioumis Anastasios K. , Ghigo Frank , Langston Glen , Brisken Walter , Romney Jonathan D. , Mujunen Ari , Ritakari Jouko , Tingay Steven J. , Dodson Richard G. , van't Klooster C. G. M. , Blancquaert Thierry , Coustenis Athena , Gendron Eric , Sicardy Bruno , Hirtzig Mathieu , Luz David , Negrao Alberto , Kostiuk Theodor , Livengood Timothy A. , Hartung Markus , de Pater Imke , Ádámkovics Mate , Lorenz Ralph D. , Roe Henry , Schaller Emily , Brown Michael , Bouchez Antonin H. , Trujillo Chad A. , Buratti Bonnie J. , Caillault Lise , Magin Thierry , Bourdon Anne , Laux Christophe
Published: July 2006

Coordinated ground‐based observations of Titan were performed around or during the Huygens atmospheric probe mission at Titan on 14 January 2005, connecting the momentary in situ observations by the probe with the synoptic coverage provided by continuing ground‐based programs. These observations consisted of three different categories: (1) radio telescope tracking of the Huygens signal at 2040 MHz, (2) observations of the atmosphere and surface of Titan, and (3) attempts to observe radiation emitted during the Huygens Probe entry into Titan's atmosphere. The Probe radio signal was successfully acquired by a network of terrestrial telescopes, recovering a vertical profile of wind speed in Titan's atmosphere from 140 km altitude down to the surface. Ground‐based observations brought new information on atmosphere and surface properties of the largest Saturnian moon. No positive detection of phenomena associated with the Probe entry was reported. This paper reviews all these measurements and highlights the achieved results. The ground‐based observations, both radio and optical, are of fundamental importance for the interpretation of results from the Huygens mission.
Pretreatment with PTD-Calbindin D 28k Alleviates Rat Brain Injury Induced by Ischemia and Reperfusion
Authors: Fan Yongfeng , Shi Langfeng , Gu Yuehua , Zhao Yanxin , Xie Jun , Qiao Jian , Yang Guo-Yuan , Wang Yang , Lu Chuan-Zhen
Published: July 2006

Calcium toxicity remains the central focus of ischemic brain injury. Calcium channel antagonists have been reported to be neuroprotective in ischemic animal models but have failed in clinical trials. Rather than block the calcium channels, calbindin proteins can buffer excessive intracellular Ca2+ as a result, maintain the calcium homeostasis. In the present study, we investigated the effect of calbindin D 28k (CaBD) in ischemic brain using the novel technique protein transduction domain (PTD)-mediated protein transduction. We generated PTD-CaBD in Escherichia coli, tested its biologic activity in N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA)- and oxygen—glucose deprivation (OGD)-induced hippocampal injury models, and examined the protection of the fusion protein using a rat brain focal ischemia model. Infarct volume was determined using 2,3,5-triphenyl-tetrazolium chloride staining; neuronal injury was examined using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated 2′-deoxyuridine 5′-triphosphate-biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining and cleaved caspase-3 assay. The results showed that the PTD-CaBD was efficiently delivered into Cos7 cells, hippocampal slice cells, and brain tissue. Pretreatment with PTD-CaBD decreased intracellular free calcium concentration and reduced cell death in NMDA- or OGD-exposed hippocampal slices ( P < 0.05). Introperitoneal administration of PTD-CaBD before transient middle cerebral artery occlusion decreased brain infarct volume (280 ± 47 versus 166 ± 70 mm3 P < 0.05), and improved neurologic outcomes compared with the control. Further studies showed that, compared with the control animals, PTD-CaBD decreased TUNEL (58% ± 7% versus 29% ± 3%, P < 0.05)- and cleaved caspase-3 (62 ± 4/field versus 31 ± 6/field, P < 0.05)-positive cells in the ischemic boundary zone. These results indicate that systemic administration of PTD-CaBD could attenuate ischemic brain injury, suggesting that PTD-mediated protein transduction might provide a promising and effective approach for the therapies of brain diseases, including cerebral ischemia.
Große Hiatusgleithernie als Ursache einer Eisenmangelanämie
Authors: Muehlenberg K , Wiedmann K. H.
Published: July 2006

Bei der beschwerdefreien 70-jährigen Patientin sind seit längerer Zeit eine Eisenmangelanämie und okkultes Blut im Stuhl nachweisbar. Gastroskopie und Koloskopie wiesen keine umschriebenen Blutungsquellen auf. In der Gastroskopie sind am ösophago-kardialen Übergang (linke Abb. mit Sicht vom Ösophagus, rechte Abb. mit Blick vom Magen) zwei pathologische Befunde zu sehen.

Welche sind das?

Erlauben diese Befunde eine Diagnose? Wenn ja, welche?

Sind Differenzialdiagnosen möglich? Wenn ja, welche?
Female Sex Tourism: A Contradiction in Terms?
Authors: Taylor Jacqueline Sanchez
Published: July 2006

This paper argues that the ‘double-standard’ applied to male and female tourists’ sexual behaviour reflects and reproduces weaknesses in existing theoretical and commonsense understandings of gendered power, sexual exploitation, prostitution and sex tourism. It looks at how essentialist constructions of gender and heterosexuality blur understandings of sexual exploitation and victimhood and argues that racialized power should also be considered to explore the boundaries between commercial and non-commercial sex. This paper is based on ethnographic research on sexual–economic exchanges between tourist women and local men and boys in the informal tourist economy in Jamaica and the Dominican Republic.
Theoretical study of CeO2 and Ce2O3 using a screened hybrid density functional
Authors: Hay P. Jeffrey , Martin Richard L. , Uddin Jamal , Scuseria Gustavo E.
Published: July 2006

The predicted structures and electronic properties of CeO2 and Ce2O3 have been studied using conventional and hybrid density functional theory. The lattice constant and bulk modulus for CeO2 from local (LSDA) functionals are in good agreement with experiment, while the lattice parameter from a generalized gradient approximation (GGA) is too long. This situation is reversed for Ce2O3, where the LSDA lattice constant is much too short, while the GGA result is in reasonable agreement with experiment. Significantly, the screened hybrid HSE functional gives excellent agreement with experimental lattice constants for both CeO2 and Ce2O3. All methods give insulating ground states for CeO2 with gaps for the 4f band lying between 1.7eV (LSDA) and 3.3eV (HSE) and 6–8eV for the conduction band. For Ce2O3 the local and GGA functionals predict a semimetallic ground state with small (0–0.3eV) band gap but weak ferromagnetic coupling between the Ce+3 centers. By contrast, the HSE functional gives an insulating ground state with a band gap of 3.2eV and antiferromagnetic coupling. Overall, the hybrid HSE functional gives a consistent picture of both the structural and electronic properties of CeO2 and Ce2O3 while treating the 4f band consistently in both oxides.
On the role of structural disjoining pressure and contact line pinning in critical heat flux enhancement during boiling of nanofluids
Authors: Sefiane Khellil
Published: July 2006

Boiling of nanofluids is reported to exhibit conflicting heat transfer trends compared to base liquids. On one hand, a deterioration of heat transfer in nucleate boiling regime and on the other hand a spectacular enhancement of critical heat flux are reported [S. M. You et al., Appl. Phys. Lett. 83, 3374 (2003); D. Milanova and R. Kumar, ibid. 87, 233107 (2005)]. The analysis and interpretation of these trends have so far been focused on the effect of nanoparticles on surface roughness, nucleation site density, and the use of hydrodynamics model for critical heat flux. In this letter a basic experiment is performed to propose a different approach to understand the mechanism through which the presence of nanoparticles acts on heat transfer during boiling of nanofluids. Pure ethanol and ethanol with aluminum particles evaporating on a hot polytetrafluoroethylene surface are investigated. The results indicate that the nanoparticles promote the pinning of the contact line of the meniscus and sessile drops. The interpretation of the reported results on boiling of nanofluids could be considered in the light of these findings. Structural disjoining pressure stemming from the ordered layering of nanoparticles in the confined wedge of the evaporating meniscus [D. T. Wasan and A. D. Nikolov, Nature (London) 423, 156 (2003)] is thought to be the principal mechanism behind the observed pinning behavior. It is suggested that the analysis of boiling heat transfer of nanofluids must account for the important effect of nanoparticles on the contact line region through the structural disjoining pressure to provide accurate interpretation.
Repetitive transport bursts in simulations of edge-localized modes in tokamaks
Authors: Kleva Robert G. , Guzdar Parvez N.
Published: July 2006

The character of particle and energy transport in simulations of tokamak edge turbulence is determined by the magnitude of the density gradient. Edge turbulence becomes increasingly intermittent as the edge density gradient increases. Beyond a critical limit in the edge density gradient, the transport is dominated by short, repetitive bursts of particles and energy outward toward the wall. These bursts are extremely ballooning in character, strongly localized on the large major radius side of the torus. The duration of a burst is given by the ballooning mode growth time t0=(RLn)1∕2∕cs, where cs is the sound speed, R is the major radius of the torus, and Ln is the density gradient scale length. The bursts are coherent in structure with a poloidal scale size L0 that is proportional to the square root of the plasma resistivity η. With further increases in the edge density gradient, the fluxes of energy and particles in the bursts become much larger in magnitude. The particle and energy bursts seen in the simulations are similar to the bursts in Dα radiation seen during edge-localized modes in tokamaks.
Stress dependence of F+-center cathodoluminescence of sapphire
Authors: Pezzotti Giuseppe , Wan Keshu , Munisso Maria Chiara , Zhu Wenliang
Published: July 2006

The rate of spectral shift with applied biaxial stress [piezospectroscopic (PS) coefficient] was determined for the electron-stimulated F+ luminescence emitted from the c plane of sapphire (α-Al2O3) as Π=1.18±0.03nm∕GPa. The PS dependence could be determined to a degree of precision by applying a controlled biaxial stress field to a sapphire thin plate using a ball-on-ring biaxial bending jig and by measuring in situ the spectral shift of the emitted cathodoluminescence (CL) F+ band in a field-emission-gun scanning electron microscope. The ball-on-ring PS calibration results open the possibility of applying CL/PS assessments to directly determine unknown residual stress fields in sapphire-based devices using the optical activity of its oxygen vacancies.
Model for the adsorption-induced change in resonance frequency of a cantilever
Authors: Huang Gan-Yun , Gao Wei , Yu Shou-Wen
Published: July 2006

A model, where the interaction between adsorbates and the cantilever and that between the adsorbates themselves have been explicitly taken into account through Lennard-Jones potential, is developed to explain the adsorption-induced fundamental resonance frequency change of a cantilever. With the model, one can obtain results comparable to some experimental observations and predict results with implications for certain applications of resonant behavior of small-dimensioned cantilevers.
Temperature effect on geminate recombination
Authors: Boch J. , Saigne F. , Dusseau L. , Schrimpf R. D.
Published: July 2006

In this work, the Onsager equation has been numerically solved to investigate the temperature dependence of the initial recombination of electron-hole pairs in silicon dioxide at low electric field. In the 1980s, the temperature effect of the initial recombination was investigated on gate oxides in metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) devices at high electric field. The temperature dependence was shown to be negligible. In the investigation of total-dose effects on bipolar devices, the temperature dependence of the initial recombination has not been considered even though the electric field in the field oxide is much lower than for MOS gate oxides. The influence of the temperature on the initial separation distance between parent carriers in the geminate recombination case and its effect on the initial recombination have not been evaluated. Both last two points are studied in this work, showing a strong temperature dependence of the initial recombination at low electric field, representative of typical operating conditions in bipolar field oxides. This temperature dependence can have a significant effect on bipolar-device characterization.
Propagation of edge magnetoplasmons in semiconductor quantum-well structures
Authors: Mikhailov S. A.
Published: July 2006

The wavelength and the propagation length of the edge magnetoplasmons, running along the edge of a two-dimensional electron layer in a semiconductor quantum-well structure, are theoretically studied as a function of frequency, magnetic field, electron density, mobility, and geometry of the structure. The results are intended to be used for analysis and optimization of operation of recently invented quantum-well microwave spectrometers operating at liquid-nitrogen temperatures [I. V. Kukushkin et al., Appl. Phys. Lett. 86, 044101 (2005)].
Water distribution pattern in treated wastewater irrigated soils: hydrophobicity effect
Authors: Tarchitzky J. , Lerner O. , Shani U. , Arye G. , Lowengart‐Aycicegi A. , Brener A. , Chen Y.
Published: July 2006

The shortage of fresh water (FW) in Israel and other semiarid regions has forced farmers to significantly expand the use of treated wastewater (TWW). Recently, farmers utilizing reclaimed wastewater (TWW) reported a unique type of water distribution regime in drip‐irrigated soils, as follows: (i) limited wetted area on the soil surface; and (ii) small saturated areas around and below the dripper, in TWW irrigated soil as opposed to an even, onion‐like wet profile, formed under fresh water (FW) irrigation. Following this observation in the field and after conducting preliminary tests in the laboratory, we hypothesized that TWW irrigation introduces water‐repellent organic constituents into the soil. Tests characterizing the water distribution showed the diameter of the saturated area on the soil surface and its water content (at a depth of 0–10 cm) was smaller with TWW than with FW irrigation. The TWW accumulated on the soil surface in small lenses and then flowed rapidly into the ground. The repellency of soils irrigated with FW and TWW was measured with the water drop penetration time test. Soils irrigated with FW were hydrophilic, whereas those irrigated with TWW exhibited hydrophobicity. Fourier transform infra‐red spectroscopy (FTIR) and 13C‐NMR analyses of organic components extracted from the soils with organic solvents indicated differences in composition only at a depth of 0–2 cm. Extracting soils with a methanol + chloroform (1:1, by volume) mixture was found to be very effective in the removal and extraction of hydrophobic aliphatic components from soils irrigated with TWW.
Partnering with patients – a concept ready for action
Authors: Hook Mary L.
Published: July 2006

Aim.  This paper is a report of a concept analysis of partnership within the context of a professional–patient relationship.

Background.  The concept of partnership has been previously characterized as immature, with a need for further consensus and consistency. Critical attributes previously reported include relationship, power sharing and negotiation, with empowerment as the primary consequence.

Method.  Rodgers’ evolutionary method of analysis for concept development was used to re‐examine the concept of partnership. Historical documents and previously published conceptual papers were reviewed for context. A search of multidisciplinary literature published between 2000 and 2004 was undertaken using the keywords of ‘partnership’ and ‘partnering’, combined with nurse/professional/physician–client relationship. Attributes, uses, antecedents and consequences were inductively derived from the citations analysed (n = 62).

Results.  Previous authors affirmed that partnership involves a process and a consistent set of eight attributes. Relationship, shared power, shared decision‐making and patient autonomy are attributes that distinguish partnership from other related concepts. Most of the literature, however, consisted of expert opinion or descriptive research. Little progress has been made in applying theory, developing tools to test the process, identifying when partnerships are needed and what specific outcomes occur when they are present.

Conclusion.  Partnerships between healthcare providers and patients develop over time. They are created to support patients in having a greater voice in their care and to empower them in self‐management. A descriptive model of partnership is proposed to support researchers in generating or applying existing theory to the development of research designs and tools that could test how this process actually works.
l‐galactonate dehydratase is part of the fungal path for d‐galacturonic acid catabolism
Authors: Kuorelahti Satu , Jouhten Paula , Maaheimo Hannu , Penttilä Merja , Richard Peter
Published: July 2006

An l‐galactonate dehydratase and the corresponding gene were identified from the mould Hypocrea jecorina (Trichoderma reesei). This novel enzyme converts l‐galactonate to l‐threo‐3‐deoxy‐hexulosonate (2‐keto‐3‐deoxy‐l‐galactonate). The enzyme is part of the fungal pathway for d‐galacturonic acid catabolism, a pathway which is only partly known. It is the second enzyme of this pathway after the d‐galacturonic acid reductase. l‐galactonate dehydratase activity is present in H. jecorina cells grown on d‐galacturonic acid but absent when other carbon sources are used for growth. A deletion of the l‐galactonate dehydratase gene in H. jecorina results in a strain with no growth on d‐galacturonic acid. The active enzyme was produced in the heterologous host Saccharomyces cerevisiae and characterized. It exhibited activity with l‐galactonate and d‐arabonate where the hydroxyl group of the C2 is in l‐ and the hydroxyl group of the C3 is in d‐configuration in the Fischer projection. However, it did not exhibit activity with d‐galactonate, d‐gluconate, l‐gulonate or d‐xylonate where the hydroxyl groups of the C2 and C3 are in different configuration.
New weed species recently introduced into Morocco
Authors: TANJI A. , TALEB A.
Published: July 2006

Twelve species were identified as having been introduced into Morocco since 1980. These were Abutilon theophrasti Medik., Ammannia coccinea Griseb. Brachiaria eruciformis (Smith) Griseb. Corchorus olitorius L. Cyperus difformis L., Dactyloctenium aegyptium (L.) Richt., Echinochloa phyllopogon (Stapf) Koss, Euphorbia heterophylla L., Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad., Panictun capillare L., Solanum cornutum Lam, and S. elaeagnifolium Cav. They were possibly introduced with contaminated crop seeds. With the exception of S. cornutum, which has disappeared from the site where it was first collected in 1987, the other species are becoming major weeds in one or more provinces. Details of their biology and importance are discussed.
Increased cardiovascular risk profile and mortality in kidney allograft recipients with post‐transplant diabetes mellitus in Spain
Authors: González‐Posada José Manuel , Hernández Domingo , Genís Beatriz Bayés , Tamajón Lourdes Perez , Pérez Javier García , Maceira Benito , Sánchez Manuel Rivero , Serón Daniel ,   for the Spanish Chronic Allograft Nephropathy Study Group
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  Background:  Post‐transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM) is associated with poorer outcomes in kidney transplantation (KT) but little information exists about the evolution of traditional cardiovascular risk (CVR) factors under this disorder.

Methods:  We retrospectively analysed CVR factors at 3, 12 and 24 months of follow‐up and mortality at three yr in 3365 KT performed in Spain during the years 1990, 1994 and 1998 with a functioning graft after the first year. Three groups were considered: (i) (PTDM, n, 251), (ii) diabetes mellitus as primary disease (DM, n = 156) and (iii) the remaining patients (controls, n = 2958).

Results:  Recipient age, weight and body mass index (BMI) were higher in PTDM than in the other groups (p < 0.0001), with a lower increase of body weight during follow‐up (p < 0.003). PTDM patients showed higher total‐cholesterol levels than controls at one (p < 0.01) and two yr (p < 0.0009), and higher triglyceride levels than the other groups during follow‐up (p < 0.002). Compared with Controls, PTDM patients had significantly higher systolic blood pressure at one (p < 0.001) and two yr (p < 0.005). Diastolic blood pressure was higher in PTDM and controls (p < 0.001), while pulse pressure was higher in PTDM and DM patients (p < 0.0001) during follow‐up. Using Cox proportional hazards analysis, PTDM correlated with total mortality (RR = 1.55; range 1.05–2.3; p < 0.02) but not with cardiovascular mortality.

Conclusions:  In Spanish KT recipients with graft function after one yr, PTDM is associated with a worse traditional CVR profile and a higher overall mortality. Although short‐term cardiovascular mortality remains similar, better control of CVR factors is mandatory to prevent long‐term cardiovascular mortality inherent to this population.
Regulation of carotenoid biosynthesis in petals and leaves of chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium)
Authors: Kishimoto Sanae , Ohmiya Akemi
Published: July 2006

We analyzed carotenoid composition and the content and expression of genes encoding isoprenoid and carotenoid biosynthetic enzymes in petals and leaves of chrysanthemums. Most of the carotenoids in yellow petals were β,ɛ‐carotenoids, lutein and its derivatives, reflecting the high expression levels of lycopene ɛ‐cyclase (LCYE). In contrast, the ratio of β,β‐carotenoids to total carotenoids in leaves were higher than that of β,ɛ‐carotenoids, reflecting the high expression levels of lycopen β‐cyclase (LCYB). Petals of the yellow‐flowered cultivar Yellow Paragon showed increased accumulation and drastic componential changes of carotenoids as they matured. In petals of the white‐flowered cultivar Paragon, carotenoid content was drastically decreased during petal development and became less than the detection limit late in development. Transcript levels of most genes tested increased during petal development in Yellow Paragon. All genes except that for 1‐deoxyxylulose 5‐phosphate synthase (DXS) showed similar expression patterns in Paragon. Between‐cultivar comparison of the expression of these genes in the petals at mid‐development showed no distinct differences between petal color. It is possible that the formation of white petal color is due to neither down‐regulation nor destruction of the carotenoid biosynthetic pathway. We presume that another factor inhibits carotenoid accumulation in chrysanthemum petals.
Sexual Signals of the Male American Goldfinch
Authors: Rosen Rafael F. , Tarvin Keith A.
Published: July 2006

Male American goldfinches (Carduelis tristis) exhibit conspicuous yellow plumage, orange bills, and black caps during the breeding season. These secondary sexual characteristics may serve as criteria by which females evaluate males as potential mates because the traits vary among individuals and are likely to be costly. We quantified plumage and bill color and cap characteristics of wild, free‐ranging American goldfinches during the breeding season and tested for relationships between those features, body condition and individual genetic diversity in males. Overall, male and female goldfinches were highly sexually dichromatic, with plumage saturation and brightness and bill brightness contributing strongly to the dimorphism. Body condition decreased significantly with Julian date, even over the 2‐wk period immediately prior to the onset of nesting during which we collected our color and cap measurements. Principal components describing color of the back and the bill significantly predicted date‐corrected body condition based on quadratic regressions, suggesting that there is reliable information in back and bill color that females could use when choosing mates. In a subset of captive males, we found that bill hue faded from orange to yellow within 24 h of capture, suggesting that bill color may reflect short‐term changes in health status or carotenoid availability. Individual genetic diversity based on a panel of eight microsatellite loci was correlated with back brightness and perhaps with cap symmetry. Based on the results of this field study, ornamentation of male American goldfinches appears to signal both long‐ and short‐term aspects of phenotypic quality.
An Outbreak of Salmonella Abortusovis Abortions in Sheep in South Croatia
Authors: Habrun B. , Listes E. , Spicic S. , Cvetnic Z. , Lukacevic D. , Jemersic L. , Lojkic M. , Kompes G.
Published: July 2006

The aim of the study was to give an account of the epidemic of abortions in sheep caused by Salmonella enterica ssp. enterica serovar Abortusovis, which occurred in Dalmatia, south Croatia, in winter 2003–2004. Five sheep flocks with rate of abortion ranging from 22% to 38% during the last‐third of gestation were examined. Salmonella Abortusovis was isolated from 13 vaginal smears and two fetuses. Direct inoculation was found to be superior to pre‐enrichment and enrichment in selective broth for Salmonella Abortusovis isolation. The isolates were biochemically identified, and characterized by serotyping and polymerase chain reaction based on the amplification of the IS200 sequence specific for Salmonella Abortusovis. A fragment of 900 bp was detected in all Salmonella Abortusovis isolates. The sensitivity testing of the isolates, carried out by the disk diffusion method and the determination of the minimal inhibitory concentrations, resulted in a high sensitivity to almost all antimicrobials used. Only two isolates were moderately sensitive to oxytetracycline, whereas one isolate showed resistance to streptomycin. Campylobacter fetus ssp. fetus and Listeria monocytogenes were excluded as causative agents of abortion in sheep by culture testing, and brucellosis, leptospirosis, Q fever and chlamydiosis by serological testing.
Long‐term administration of a commercial porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV)‐inactivated vaccine in PRRSV‐endemically infected sows
Authors: Papatsiros V. G. , Alexopoulos C. , Kritas S. K. , Koptopoulos G. , Nauwynck H. J. , Pensaert M. B. , Kyriakis S. C.
Published: July 2006

The purpose of this study was to investigate the safety and efficacy of a commercial European porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV)‐inactivated vaccine after 18‐month use in gilts/sows at a farm with high seroprevalence. In a farrow‐to‐finish farm with 1100 sows, all sows and gilts were systematically vaccinated with the PRRS‐inactivated PROGRESSIS® vaccine for a period of 18 months. Farm's reproductive and litter characteristics were longitudinally recorded for this period and historically compared with those of the year prior to vaccination. Serology, employing immunoperoxidase monolayer assay, had confirmed a high prevalence of PRRS‐specific antibodies in most age groups within the farm prior to vaccination. Seroprevalence during the experiment ranged between 0% and 100% in weaners and growers, but remained at stable high levels (>93%) in finishing pigs and gilts throughout all 2‐year period of serology measurements. No local or systemic vaccine side effects were noted throughout the trial period. Vaccinations had resulted over time in a significant improvement of sow reproductive performance (e.g. reduction of premature farrowings, abortions and increase of farrowing rate) and litter characteristics (e.g. increase of the number of live born and weaned pigs and decrease of stillborn, mummified, weak and splay‐legged piglets). It has also been observed that the higher the degree of immunization of a sow, the better the improvement of her reproductive parameters. Sows after vaccination have shown improved characteristics compared to homoparous sows prior to the application of vaccinations in the farm.
Carboxypeptidase‐B activation peptide, a marker of pancreatic acinar injury, but not l‐selectin, a marker of neutrophil activation, predicts severity of acute pancreatitis
Authors: Hilal Moh’d Abu , Ung C Tsiang , Westlake Sarah , Johnson Colin D
Published: July 2006

Background:  Severity prediction is difficult early in the course of acute pancreatitis. Markers of pancreatic injury, or inflammatory activation are candidate markers of severity. The aim of the present study was to assess predictive abilities of carboxypeptidase‐B activation peptide (CAPAP‐B) and soluble l‐selectin (sL‐selectin) using samples collected on admission to hospital.

Methods:  Patients with acute pancreatitis and disease (acute abdomen) and normal controls were studied. Samples were collected at admission and daily for 5 days. There were significant differences between mild and severe pancreatitis in urinary and plasma CAPAP‐B on admission, C‐reactive protein on day 3 and acute physiology and chronic health evaluation (APACHE)‐II scores. Prediction of severity with CAPAP‐B on admission was as good as with APACHE‐II score after 48 h. Carboxypeptidase‐B activation peptide was not raised in disease controls. By contrast, sL‐selectin was lowered in all cases of acute pancreatitis, and in disease controls. There was no difference between mild and severe pancreatitis.

Conclusion:  Urinary CAPAP‐B, a marker of acinar injury, can be used to predict severity of acute pancreatitis at the time of admission to hospital, but sL‐selectin has no value in this regard. The extent of acinar injury may be a more important early marker of severity than markers of inflammatory activation.
Increased mRNA expression of chemokines in hepatocellular carcinoma with tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes
Authors: Hirano Seitaro , Iwashita Yukio , Sasaki Atsushi , Kai Seiichiro , Ohta Masayuki , Kitano Seigo
Published: July 2006

Background:  The infiltration of lymphocytes in tumor tissue has been associated with a good prognosis for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The purpose of the present study was to estimate the correlation between mRNA expression of chemokines and tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes in HCC.

Methods:  A total of 44 HCC were examined. Immunohistochemical staining was performed using antibodies to CD4, CD8, CD68, and L‐26. The mRNA expression of each chemokine was investigated: regulated upon activation normal T‐cell expressed and secreted (RANTES), interleukin‐8 (IL‐8), epithelial‐derived neutrophil attractant‐78 (ENA78), interferon‐inducible protein‐10 (IP‐10), monokine induced by interferon‐γ (Mig), and interferon‐γ in HCC were quantified via a real‐time polymerase chain reaction assay. Chemokine proteins of Mig and IP‐10 were examined by immunohistochemistry.

Results:  The mean number of infiltrating lymphocytes in HCC was 136.9 ± 32.9/0.25 mm2. Of these infiltrating lymphocytes, CD8‐positive T lymphocytes were those predominantly seen around the tumor cells. The mean mRNA expression (copies/103 glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase [GAPDH] mRNA) of the following chemokines was determined to be follows: 3.0 ± 1.9 copies/103 GAPDH mRNA, RANTES; 9.2 ± 4.9 copies/103 GAPDH mRNA, IL‐8; 44.6 ± 24.4 copies/103 GAPDH mRNA, ENA78; 215.7 ± 93.9 copies/103 GAPDH mRNA, IP‐10; 77.3 ± 38.5 copies/103 GAPDH mRNA, Mig; and 1.7 ± 0.4 copies/103 GAPDH mRNA, interferon‐γ. Significant close correlations were observed between the number of infiltrating lymphocytes in these HCC and the expression of Mig and IP‐10 mRNA. In the immunostaining, expression of Mig and IP‐10 proteins was found only in the HCC cells in the high‐infiltration group.

Conclusions:  Some chemokines induced by interferon‐γ, such as Mig and IP‐10, may promote lymphocyte recruitment to HCC and may thus play important roles in cancer immunology.
The effects of sowing depth and flooding on the emergence, survival, and growth of Fimbristylis miliacea (L.) Vahl
Authors: BEGUM MAHFUZA , JURAIMI ABDUL S. , AMARTALINGAM RAJAN , BIN MAN AZMI , BIN SYED RASTANS SYED OMAR
Published: July 2006

Glasshouse experiments were conducted from March to July 2003 to determine the effects of sowing depth, and the time, duration, and depth of flooding on the emergence, survival, and growth of Fimbristylis miliacea (L.) Vahl. The treatments that were evaluated in the first experiment were three seeding depths (0, 0.5, and 1.0 cm), while in the second experiment, three flooding depths (saturated soil with no standing water and soil with water depths of 5 and 10 cm) and three flooding durations (7, 14, and 21 days from sowing) were evaluated. In the third experiment, three flooding depths (saturated soil with no standing water, and soil with water depths of 5 and 10 cm) and four flooding regimes (7, 14, 21 or 28 days after sowing [DAS]) were evaluated. Surface seeding gave the highest emergence rate compared to the 0.5 cm and 1.0 cm soil depths. A significantly higher emergence rate was recorded with the saturated conditions than with the flooded conditions. A flooding duration of ≥ 14 days showed a clear trend of reduced emergence with increasing flooding depth. A significantly higher survival rate, plant height, root length, number of leaves, and dry matter were recorded at soil saturation followed by the 5 cm and 10 cm flooding depths when flooding was simulated at 7 and 14 DAS. When the flooding was delayed to 21 and 28 DAS, the 10 cm flooding depth was required to suppress this weed. The results provide sufficient evidence to confirm that from deeper seed burial (1 cm sowing depth), flooding depths of ≥ 5 cm of durations of 14 and 21 days and at the onset of flooding within 14 DAS were effective in suppressing the emergence and growth of F. miliacea.
Development of the Human Cortex and the Concept of “Critical” or “Sensitive” Periods
Authors: Uylings H. B. M.
Published: July 2006

This review describes the prenatal and postnatal development of the human cortex. Neurogenesis, neuronal migration, dendrite maturation, synaptogenesis, and white matter development are discussed. In addition, the concept of “critical” or “sensitive” periods is discussed as well as genetic and environmental influences (Nature‐Nurture). The effects of irradiation, alcohol, smoking, and prenatal maternal influenza and stress on brain functions and language performance are reviewed. The periods of plasticity are reviewed for stereoscopic vision, brain lesions, social neglect, and first and second language acquisition.

This article illustrates that “critical” or “sensitive” periods exist for those functions for which axonal rewiring across a long distance in the brain is necessary. This is virtually impossible after completion of the developmental competition between different axonal systems. Furthermore, genotyping allows the maximum of structural and functional properties, but the eventual outcome is under the influence of the environment in positive or negative directions. Under dramatic circumstances, environmental factors during the first years of life can be quite decisive for the development of language, social, and other intellectual functions.
Docosahexaenoic acid prevents apoptosis of retina photoreceptors by activating the ERK/MAPK pathway
Authors: German Olga Lorena , Insua María Fernanda , Gentili Claudia , Rotstein Nora P. , Politi Luis E.
Published: July 2006

Identifying the trophic factors for retina photoreceptors and the intracellular pathways activated to promote cell survival is crucial for treating retina neurodegenerative diseases. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), the major retinal polyunsaturated fatty acid, prevents photoreceptor apoptosis during early development in vitro, and upon oxidative stress. However, the signaling mechanisms activated by DHA are still unclear. We investigated whether the extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK)/mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) or the phosphatidylinositol‐3‐kinase (PI3K) pathway participated in DHA protection. 1,4‐Diamino‐2,3‐dicyano‐1,4‐bis(2‐aminophynyltio) butadiene (U0126), a specific MEK inhibitor, completely blocked the DHA anti‐apoptotic effect. DHA rapidly increased ERK phosphorylation in photoreceptors, whereas U0126 blocked this increase. U0126 hindered DHA prevention of mitochondrial depolarization, and blocked the DHA‐induced increase in opsin expression. On the contrary, PI3K inhibitors did not diminish the DHA protective effect. DHA promoted the early expression of Bcl‐2, decreased Bax expression and reduced caspase‐3 activation in photoreceptors. These results suggest that DHA exclusively activates the ERK/MAPK pathway to promote photoreceptor survival during early development in vitro and upon oxidative stress. This leads to the regulation of Bcl‐2 and Bax expression, thus preserving mitochondrial membrane potential and inhibiting caspase activation. Hence, DHA, a lipid trophic factor, promotes photoreceptor survival and differentiation by activating the same signaling pathways triggered by peptidic trophic factors.
Dog Ownership, Walking Behavior, and Maintained Mobility in Late Life
Authors: Thorpe Roland J. , Simonsick Eleanor M. , Brach Jennifer S. , Ayonayon Hilsa , Satterfield Suzanne , Harris Tamara B. , Garcia Melissa , Kritchevsky Stephen B. ,   for the Health, Aging and Body Composition Study
Published: July 2006

OBJECTIVES: To examine dog walking among dog owners and the relationship between walking behavior of dog owners and non‐dog owners and maintained gait speed over 3 years.

DESIGN: Cross‐sectional and longitudinal analyses of a prospective cohort study.

SETTING: Memphis, Tennessee, and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

PARTICIPANTS: Two thousand five hundred thirty‐three community‐dwelling adults aged 71 to 82 at 36 months of the Health, Aging and Body Composition Study.

MEASUREMENTS: Dog ownership, reported walking behavior, change in walking behavior, and usual and rapid gait speed over 3 years.

RESULTS: Of 394 dog owners, only 36% walked their dogs at least three times per week. Cross‐sectionally, dog walkers were more likely to achieve 150 minutes of walking per week and had faster usual and rapid walking speeds (1.20 vs 1.14 m/s and 1.62 vs 1.52 m/s, respectively; P<.01 for both) than non‐dog owners who did not walk at least three times per week and similar speeds as non‐dog owners who walked at least 150 minutes per week (P>.50). Three years later, subjects who had been dog walkers at baseline were approximately twice as likely as any other group to achieve recommended walking levels, independent of covariates. Dog walkers experienced similar declines in usual and rapid walking speed as non‐dog owners who walked at least three times per week but maintained their initial mobility advantage.

CONCLUSION: Although dog ownership appears to facilitate walking behavior, only a minority of older dog owners walk their dogs. The mobility advantage of dog ownership was seen only in dog walkers and was similar to that associated with any walking. Given suboptimal walking activity in older adults, examining the degree to which dog ownership promotes walking activity in persons who do little walking on their own appears worth pursuing.
Ventricular Fibrillation Induced by Stretch Pulse: Implications for Sudden Death Due to Commotio Cordis
Authors: BODE FRANK , FRANZ MICHAEL R. , WILKE IRIS , BONNEMEIER HENDRIK , SCHUNKERT HERIBERT , WIEGAND UWE K.H.
Published: July 2006

Introduction: Nonpenetrating chest wall impact (commotio cordis) may lead to sudden cardiac death due to the acute initiation of ventricular fibrillation (VF). VF may result from sudden stretch during a vulnerable window, which is determined by repolarization inhomogeneity.

Methods: We examined action potential morphologies and VF inducibility in response to sudden myocardial stretch in the left ventricle (LV). In six Langendorff perfused rabbit hearts, the LV was instrumented with a fluid‐filled balloon. Increasing volume and pressure pulses were applied at different times of the cardiac cycle. Monophasic action potentials (MAPs) were recorded simultaneously from five LV epicardial sites. Inter‐site dispersion of repolarization was calculated in the time and voltage domains.

Results: Sudden balloon inflation induced VF when pressure pulses of 208–289 mmHg were applied within a window of 35–88 msec after MAP upstroke, a period of intrinsic increase in repolarization dispersion. During the pressure pulse, MAPs revealed an additional increase in repolarization dispersion (time domain) by 9 ± 6 msec (P < 0.01). The maximal difference in repolarization levels (voltage domain) between sites increased from 19 ± 3% to 26 ± 3% (P < 0.05). Earliest stretch‐induced activation was observed near a site with early repolarization, while sites with late repolarization showed delayed activation.

Conclusions: Sudden myocardial stretch can elicit VF when it occurs during a vulnerable window that is based on repolarization inhomogeneity. Stretch pulses applied during this vulnerable window can lead to nonuniform activation. Repolarization dispersion might play a crucial role in the occurrence of fatal tachyarrhythmias during commotio cordis.
Long‐Term Safety and Efficacy of Circumferential Ablation with Pulmonary Vein Isolation
Authors: CHEEMA AAMIR , DONG JUN , DALAL DARSHAN , VASAMREDDY CHANDRASEKHAR R. , MARINE JOSEPH E. , HENRIKSON CHARLES A. , SPRAGG DAVID , CHENG ALAN , NAZARIAN SAMAN , SINHA SUNIL , HALPERIN HENRY , BERGER RONALD , CALKINS HUGH
Published: July 2006

Background: Each of the two main approaches to catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF, segmental and circumferential) is associated with moderate long‐term efficacy.

Objective: To report the long‐term outcomes of a modified technique that combines circumferential ablation with pulmonary vein (PV) isolation, determined by a circular mapping catheter and to determine the relationship between complete PV isolation and long‐term efficacy.

Methods: The patient population was composed of 64 consecutive patients (47 men [73%]; age 59 ± 11 years) with AF who underwent catheter ablation. AF was paroxysmal in 29 (45%) and nonparoxysmal in 35 (55%). Each patient was followed for a minimum of 12 months.

Results: After a mean follow‐up of 13 ± 1 months, the long‐term single‐procedure success rate was 45% (n = 29) with an additional 4% (n = 3) of patients demonstrating improvement. With repeat procedures in 19 patients, the overall long‐term success rate was 62% (n = 40) with 9% (n = 6) demonstrating improvement. All the patients who underwent repeat ablations had recovered PV conduction. Incomplete PV isolation was the only independent predictor of failure. A major complication occurred in four (6%) patients, including three patients with vascular complications and one with cardiac tamponade.

Conclusion: Our results suggest that the long‐term single‐procedure efficacy of circumferential ablation with PV isolation in a cohort of patients with predominantly nonparoxysmal AF approaches 50%. Repeat procedures involving re‐isolation of the PVs result in a significant improvement in outcomes. Complete electrical isolation of the PVs has a significant impact on the long‐term efficacy of the procedure.