bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biphenyl uptake by psychrotolerantPseudomonassp. strain Cam-1 and mesophilicBurkholderiasp. strain LB400
Authors: Master Emma R , McKinlay James J , Stewart Gordon R , Mohn William W
Published: August 2005

We investigated the uptake of biphenyl by the psychrotolerant, polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB)-degrader, Pseudomonas sp. strain Cam-1 and the mesophilic PCB-degrader, Burkholderia sp. strain LB400. The effects of growth substrates, metabolic inhibitors, and temperature on [14C]biphenyl uptake were studied. Biphenyl uptake by both strains was induced by growth on biphenyl, and was inhibited by dinitrophenol (DNP) and carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone (CCCP), which are metabolic uncouplers. The Vmaxand Kmfor biphenyl uptake by Cam-1 at 22 °C were 5.4 ± 1.7 nmol·min1·(mg of cell protein)1and 83.1 ± 15.9 µmol·L1, respectively. The Vmaxand Kmfor biphenyl uptake by LB400 at 22 °C were 3.2 ± 0.3 nmol·min1·(mg of cell protein1) and 51.5 ± 9.6 µmol·L1, respectively. At 15 °C, the maximum rate for biphenyl uptake by Cam-1 and LB400 was 3.1 ± 0.3 nmol·min1·(mg of cell protein)1and 0.89 ± 0.1 nmol·min1·(mg of cell protein)1, respectively. Thus, the maximum rate for biphenyl uptake by Cam-1 at 15 °C was more than 3 times higher than that for LB400.Key words: biphenyl, uptake, bioremediation, psychrotolerant.
An optimized enumeration method for sorbitol-fermenting Bifidobacteria in water samples
Authors: Long Sharon C , Arango P. Catalina , Plummer Jeanine D
Published: August 2005

With increased focus on watershed protection under the Surface Water Treatment Rule, indicators that discriminate among sources of microbial inputs (microbial source tracking) are needed to supplement the quantitative information provided by total and fecal coliform measurements for drinking water monitoring. Bifidobacteria are found in the digestive tract and feces of humans and other animals, and also in sewage. Sorbitol is a food additive used exclusively in food intended for human consumption. Therefore, the presence of sorbitol-fermenting Bifidobacteria in environmental waters can be indicative of sources of human fecal contamination. A series of media were evaluated using ATCC cultures of B. breve and B. adolescentis, feces from different animals, and domestic wastewater samples. The media evaluated were Human Bifid Sorbitol agar (HBSA), modified Human Bifid Sorbitol agar, Beerens Medium, modified Beerens Medium, Reinforced Clostridial agar, BIM-25 Medium, and modified BIM-25 Medium. Variables such as sample preservation, incubation time, different pH indicators, plating technique, and discontinuous exposure to sorbitol were also evaluated. A series of biochemical tests were used to confirm positive colonies enumerated on the various media. Membrane filtration and enumeration of sodium sulfite preserved samples on HBSA containing bromocresol purple using loose lidded plates for 48 h provided the best recoveries for presumptive positive colonies. A number of sorbitol-fermenters that were not Bifidobacteria were able to grow on all media tested, resulting in false-positives. Therefore, plating on HBSA should be followed by a confirmation step when monitoring for sorbitol-fermenting Bifidobacteria in environmental waters. A year-long sampling survey of a managed reservoir in Massachusetts provided field validation of the proposed methodology for sorbitol-fermenting Bifidobacteria as a human-related source tracking indicator tool.Key words: sorbitol-fermenting Bifidobacteria, microbial source tracking, watershed management, fecal contamination.
Vascular effects of 15-F2t-isoprostane in spontaneously hypertensive rats
Authors: Marlière Stéphanie , Cracowski Jean-Luc , Hakim Ahmed , Stanke-Labesque Françoise , Hoffmann Pascale , Bessard Germain
Published: August 2005

F2-isoprostanes are a family of compounds derived from arachidonic acid by free radical-catalyzed peroxidation. Among F2-isoprostanes, 15-F2t-IsoP is a vasoconstrictor in animal and human vascular beds. Several recent studies found increased 15-F2t-IsoP levels in animal models of hypertension. However, no data is available on the vascular effect of 15-F2t-IsoP in such models. The contractile responses of 15-F2t-IsoP (10–9 to 3 × 10–5 mol/L) were tested on rat thoracic aortic rings in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) compared with Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. The contraction induced by 15-F2t-IsoP was not significantly different in aortic rings from WKY rats and SHR (Emax 139% ± 5% vs. 134% ± 6%, respectively) and was mediated through thromboxane A2–prostaglandin H2 receptor activation as shown by the rightward shift of the concentration-contraction curves in presence of GR 32191, a specific thromboxane A2–prostaglandin H2 receptor antagonist. Endothelial denudation increased the maximal contraction compared to intact rings induced by 15-F2t-IsoP in both WKY rats (170% ± 20% vs. 139% ± 5%, p < 0.05) and SHR (194% ± 11% vs. 134% ± 6%, p < 0.01), whereas pretreatment with Nω-nitro-L-arginine (10–4 mol/L) or with indomethacin (10–5 mol/L) increased the maximal contraction to 15-F2t-IsoP in WKY rats but not in SHR. SHRs treated with an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, enalapril, for four weeks showed decreased maximal contraction to 15-F2t-IsoP in vessels with and without endothelium compared with untreated SHR. In conclusion, 15-F2t-IsoP-induced vasoconstriction is similar in SHR compared with WKY rats. Endothelium modulates 15-F2t-IsoP contraction in both strains. However, whereas this effect is mediated through nitric oxide- and cyclooxygenase-dependent pathways in WKY rats, other mediators are implicated in SHR. Key words: isoprostane, hypertension, lipid peroxidation, vascular reactivity, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors.
In vivo protective effects of urocortin on ischemia-reperfusion injury in rat heart via free radical mechanisms
Authors: Liu Chun-Na , Yang Cui , Liu Xin-Yu , Li Shengnan
Published: August 2005

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of urocortin (UCN) on oxidative stress and the mechanisms of urocortin on ischemia–reperfusion injury in vivo in the rat model. Thirty-six Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into 6 groups, including sham, control (normal saline solution), UCN1, UCN2, UCN3, and verapamil groups. The left anterior descending coronary artery of all rats except those in the sham group was treated with a 30-min occlusion followed by a 60-min reperfusion. Just before the occlusion, normal saline solution, UCN (5, 10, and 20 µg/kg body mass), or verapamil (1 mg/kg body mass) was administered. Heart rates, beating rhythm, and S-T segments were constantly monitored using an ECG. At the completion of the drug adminstration, blood samples were taken to measure the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), malonaldehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), and nitric oxide (NO) to evaluate the effects of UCN on oxidative stress. Finally, the size of infarction was measured. Arrhythmia rates were significantly lower, and the infarction size was significantly smaller (p < 0.01), in the UCN groups vs. the control group. Verapamil also significantly reduced arrhythmia rates and infarction size. The MDA activities were remarkably diminished, whereas the SOD, GSH-PX, and NO activities were significantly higher in the UCN and VER groups (p < 0.01). MDA, SOD, and NO activities were strongly correlated with UCN doses. These results suggest that UCN may play a protective role in ischemia–reperfusion injury in rat hearts against the oxidative stress by inhibiting free radicals' activities. Key words: urocortin, ischemia–reperfusion injury, arrhythmias, free radical anti-oxidative enzymes, oxidative stress.
Nuclear factor-κB inhibition by pyrrolidinedithiocarbamate attenuates gastric ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats
Authors: Eter Eman El , Hagar Hanan H , Al-Tuwaijiri Ali , Arafa Maha
Published: August 2005

Pyrrolidinedithiocarbamate (PDTC) is a potent antioxidant and an inhibitor of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). The present study examined the impact of PDTC preconditioning on gastric protection in response to ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury to the rat stomach. Male Wistar rats were recruited and divided into 3 groups (n=7). One group was subjected to gastric ischemia for 30 min and reperfusion for 1 hour. The second group of rats was preconditioned with PDTC (200 mg/kg body mass i.v.) 15 min prior to ischemia and before reperfusion. The third group of rats was sham-operated and served as the control group. Gastric I/R injury increased serum lactate dehydrogenase level, vascular permeability of gastric mucosa (as indicated by Evans blue dye extravasation) and gastric content of inflammatory cytokine; tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Moreover, oxidative stress was increased as indicated by elevated lipid peroxides formation (measured as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) and depleted reduced glutathione in gastric tissues. NF-κB translocation was also detected by electrophoretic mobility shift assay. Microscopically, gastric tissues subjected to I/R injury showed ulceration, hemorrhages, and neutrophil infiltration. Immunohistochemical studies of gastric sections revealed increased expression of p53 and Bcl-2 proteins. PDTC pretreatment reduced Evans blue extravasation, serum lactate dehydrogenase levels, gastric TNF-α levels, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances content, and increased gastric glutathione content. Moreover, PDTC pretreatment abolished p53 expression and inhibited NF-κB translocation. Finally, histopathological changes were nearly restored by PDTC pretreatment. These results clearly demonstrate that NF-κB activation and pro-apoptotic protein p53 induction are involved in gastric I/R injury. PDTC protects against gastric I/R injury by an antioxidant, NF-κB inhibition, and by reduction of pro-apoptotic protein p53 expression, which seems to be downstream to NF-κB, thus promoting cell survival. Key words: pyrrolidinedithiocarbamate, ischemiareperfusion injury, gastric mucosa, nuclear factor-κB, inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress.
Thermoregulatory, motor, behavioural, and nociceptive responses of rats to 3 long-acting neuroleptics
Authors: Fick L G , Fuller A , Mitchell D
Published: August 2005

We investigated physiological effects of intramuscular injections of the following 3 long-acting neuroleptics commonly used in wildlife management: haloperidol (0.05, 0.1, and 0.5 mg/kg body mass), zuclopenthixol acetate (0.5, 1, and 5 mg/kg), and perphenazine enanthate (1, 3, and 10 mg/kg), in a rat model. Body temperature and cage activity were measured by intra-abdominal telemeters. Nociceptive responses were assessed by challenges to noxious heat and pressure. Haloperidol (0.5 mg/kg) produced a significant nocturnal hypothermia (p < 0.05) and decreased nighttime cage activity and food intake. Zuclopenthixol (5 mg/kg) significantly decreased nighttime body temperature and cage activity and, at 1 mg/kg and 5 mg/kg, significantly decreased food intake 517 h after injection (p < 0.05). Perphenazine (10 mg/kg) significantly decreased nighttime body temperature and cage activity and, at all doses, significantly decreased food intake 517 h after injection (p < 0.05). Significant analgesic activity was evident in rats given 5 mg/kg zuclopenthixol up to 40 h after injection, and 10 mg/kg perphenazine from 48 to 96 h after injection (p < 0.0001). Zuclopenthixol (5 mg/kg) and perphenazine (10 mg/kg) had significant antihyperalgesic activities at 16 h postinjection and 2448 h postinjection, respectively (p < 0.0001). Haloperidol had no significant antinociceptive activity at doses tested. Motor function was impaired in rats given 0.5 mg/kg haloperidol, 5 mg/kg zuclopenthixol and 10 mg/kg perphenazine. Effects of long-acting neuroleptics on body temperature, feeding, and activity were short-lasted and should not preclude their use in wildlife. Antinociceptive actions were longer-lasting, but were nonspecific, and we recommend additional analgesics for painful procedures during wildlife management. Key words: body temperature, spontaneous activity, food intake, antinociception, motor function, long-acting neuroleptic.
Myocardial function following cold ischemic storage is improved by cardiac-specific overexpression of A1-adenosine receptors
Authors: Crawford Marguerite , Ford Sara , Henry Michele , Matherne G Paul , Lankford Amy
Published: August 2005

Cold ischemic storage of hearts for transplantation is limited to 4–6 h, and therefore the development of strategies to extend preservation time may increase the donor pool of hearts. Overexpression of A1-adenosine receptors (A1AR) can protect hearts from acute ischemic injury, and the purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that overexpression of A1AR will improve tolerance to longer periods of cold ischemic preservation. Hearts from 18 wild type and 16 transgenic mice with overexpression of A1AR (A1AR Trans) were isolated and perfused, and then subjected to 18 h of preservation in 5 °C University of Wisconsin solution followed by 2 h of reperfusion. Left ventricular end diastolic pressure and left ventricular developed pressure were measured as indices of ventricular function. Cell viability was assessed by determination of infarct size and myocardial cell apoptosis. A1AR Trans hearts showed improved function following 18 h of ischemia, as shown by lower end diastolic pressure (p < 0.05) and higher recovery of left ventricular developed pressure (p < 0.05) during reperfusion. A1AR Trans hearts had markedly reduced infarct size (p < 0.05) and decreased apoptosis (p < 0.05). Overexpression of cardiac A1AR imparts cardioprotection during long-term cold ischemic preservation. Key words: cardiac preservation, myocardial protection, g-protein coupled receptors, transgenic mice, heart transplantation.
The gular pouch in northern hemisphere parasitic lampreys (Petromyzontidae)
Authors: Monette S N , Renaud C B
Published: August 2005

The gular pouch is a large structure, of unknown function, that is present in sexually mature males of two parasitic species of southern-hemisphere lampreys. Our study showed the presence of a similar structure, of much smaller size, in both spawning and prespawning males and females in seven parasitic species of northern-hemisphere lampreys. Homology between the structure present in southern-hemisphere and northern-hemisphere lampreys was established based on the position of the pouch in the gular region and the fact that northern-hemisphere and southern-hemisphere lampreys have a sister-group relationship. The presence of lipids in the gular pouch was established in prespawning specimens of Entosphenus tridentatus (Gairdner in Richardson, 1836) and Petromyzon marinus L., 1758. The proposed hypothesis is that these lipids act as an energy source to sustain these two anadromous species during their protracted spawning migration. The hypothesis that the gular pouch is used to help carry stones for nest building was tentatively rejected pending further testing, because despite having a much smaller gular pouch, P. marinus has been observed carrying much larger stones than those carried by Geotria australis Gray, 1851. The statistically significant difference in gular-pouch volume between spawning males and females of P. marinus suggests that males use their larger pouch for courtship display. The gular pouch possessed a single lumen in the genera Ichthyomyzon Girard, 1858, Petromyzon L., 1758, and Caspiomyzon Berg, 1906, as in southern-hemisphere lampreys, whereas it comprised two lumens in the genera Entosphenus Gill, 1862 and Lampetra Bonnaterre, 1788. This is phylogenetically significant, as the two lumen gular pouch, interpreted as the derived condition, identifies a major clade of northern-hemisphere lampreys.
Functional feeding responses of coyotes, Canis latrans, to fluctuating prey abundance in the Curlew Valley, Utah, 1977–1993
Authors: Bartel Rebecca A , Knowlton Frederick F
Published: August 2005

We investigated interactions between coyotes (Canis latrans Say, 1823) and prey in the Curlew Valley, Utah, by comparing prey abundances with prey consumption rates. Previous studies reported a cyclic trend in black-tailed jackrabbit (Lepus californicus Gray, 1837) density with a period of 10 years and >150-fold amplitude, as well as short-term fluctuations among some rodent species that exceeded an 8-fold difference in amplitude over 2 years. Our results suggest changes in coyote diets mainly reflect the fluctuations in jackrabbit abundance. Prey switching to rodents during periods of low jackrabbit abundance also was evident. We used the initial feeding pattern analysis to compare prey consumption rates to prey abundance. Coyotes demonstrated a type II (hyperbolic) functional feeding response to changes in jackrabbit abundance. Functional feeding responses to rodent abundances were more difficult to assess because of the strong influence of jackrabbits. In most comparisons, we visually detected a linear functional feeding response to varying rodent abundances; yet this was not statistically supported by Akaike's Information Criterion corrected for small sample sizes (AICc) to assess different models.
Distinguishing the distributions of two cryptic frogs (Anura: Discoglossidae) using molecular data and environmental modeling
Authors: Real Raimundo , Barbosa A Márcia , Martínez-Solano Íñigo , García-París Mario
Published: August 2005

Currently, the identification of two cryptic Iberian amphibians, Discoglossus galganoi Capula, Nascetti, Lanza, Bullini and Crespo, 1985 and Discoglossus jeanneae Busack, 1986, relies on molecular characterization. To provide a means to discern the distributions of these species, we used 385-base-pair sequences of the cytochrome b gene to identify 54 Spanish populations of Discoglossus. These data and a series of environmental variables were used to build up a logistic regression model capable of probabilistically designating a specimen of Discoglossus found in any Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) grid cell of 10 km × 10 km to one of the two species. Western longitudes, wide river basins, and semipermeable (mainly siliceous) and sandstone substrates favored the presence of D. galganoi, while eastern longitudes, mountainous areas, severe floodings, and impermeable (mainly clay) or basic (limestone and gypsum) substrates favored D. jeanneae. Fifteen percent of the UTM cells were predicted to be shared by both species, whereas 51% were clearly in favor of D. galganoi and 34% were in favor of D. jeanneae, considering odds of 4:1. These results suggest that these two species have parapatric distributions and allow for preliminary identification of potential secondary contact areas. The method applied here can be generalized and used for other geographic problems posed by cryptic species.
The effects of 17β-estradiol injections on thyroid hormone deiodination pathways in liver and other tissues of female and male rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) at different stages of sexual maturity
Authors: Wiens Susanna C , Eales J Geoffrey
Published: August 2005

The effects of two intraperitoneal injections of 17β-estradiol (E2) over 7 days were studied on thyroid hormone plasma levels and on activities of thyroxine (T4), 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine (T3), and 3,3',5'-triiodothyronine (rT3) outer-ring deiodination (ORD) and inner-ring deiodination (IRD) pathways in various tissues of female and male rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum, 1792)). E2 administered to adult females and males at different stages of sexual maturity increased liver mass, depressed plasma T3 levels with no change in plasma T4 levels, and severely decreased liver T4ORD activity. E2 also modestly depressed hepatic rT3ORD activity, but only at low substrate levels, and had no consistent effect on the hepatic IRD pathways. There were no E2-induced changes in brain, gill, or heart deiodination, but E2 increased kidney T3IRD activity. In contrast, an all-female stock of trout with rudimentary ovaries responded to E2 with an increase in liver mass but without change in plasma T4 and T3 levels or liver and brain deiodination activities. In conclusion, the decrease in plasma T3 levels in both male and female adult E2-injected trout may be due to both decreased hepatic T3 production and increased renal T3 degradation. However, thyroidal responses to E2 depend on physiological/developmental state and were absent in a highly immature all-female trout stock.
The effects of capital on an income breeder: evidence from female Columbian ground squirrels
Authors: Broussard David R , Dobson F Stephen , Murie J O
Published: August 2005

To maximize fitness, organisms must optimally allocate resources to reproduction, daily metabolic maintenance, and survival. We examined multiple years of live-trapping and observational data from a known-aged population of female Columbian ground squirrels, Spermophilus columbianus (Ord, 1815), to determine the influences of stored resources and daily resource income on the reproductive investments of females. We predicted that because yearling females were not fully grown structurally while producing their first litter, they would rely exclusively on income for reproduction, while reproductive investment in older females (≥2 years of age) would be influenced by both stored resources (capital) and daily income. Results from path analysis indicated that both yearlings and older females were income breeders. However, initial capital indirectly influenced investment in reproduction of yearling and older females. Females with the greatest initial capital maintained high body masses while investing relatively more income in reproduction. By considering influences of both capital and income, important relationships can be revealed between these resources and their influence on life histories.
Mild energy restriction alters mouse–nematode transmission dynamics in free-running indoor arenas
Authors: Scott M E , Dare O K , Tu T , Koski K G
Published: August 2005

Energy restriction reduces Heligmosomoides polygyrus (Dujardin, 1845) (Nematoda) infection by reducing transmission-related behaviours but prolongs parasite survival by suppressing immune responses in individually housed mice. To determine the relative importance of these two processes in accumulation of worms in mouse populations, 10 female CD1 mice were housed in each of eight indoor arenas with ad libitum access to either an energy-sufficient (ES) diet or an energy-restricted (ER) diet with 20% less metabolizable energy (four arenas per diet). After 3 weeks, H. polygyrus transmission was initiated by introducing larvae onto damp peat trays. Mice adapted to the ER diet through increased food intake and nesting and reduced overall activity; after 6 weeks, nutritional and immunological measures were comparable between diet groups. With continuing exposure to parasite larvae, mice in both ER and ES arenas developed resistance to the incoming larvae; however, mice in the ER arenas accumulated lower worm burdens than mice in the ES arenas despite their increased contact with peat. We suggest that the comparable immunocompetence of mice in the ER and ES arenas enabled the ER mice exposed to higher transmission rates to more rapidly reject the parasites, leading to lower final worm numbers, a pattern frequently observed in other helminth infections.
Size matters: systematic and ecological implications of allometry in the responses of chironomid midge morphological ratios to experimental temperature manipulations
Authors: McKie Brendan G , Cranston Peter S
Published: August 2005

Separated populations of wide-ranging ectothermic species may be subjected to differing ambient environmental regimes, with consequences for adult size and related allometric characteristics. We investigated effects of environmentally induced size variation in freshwater Australian Chironomidae (Diptera) on several morphometric ratios used to account for such variation in taxonomic classification. Echinocladius martini Cranston, 2000 (Orthocladiinae) and Australopelopia prionoptera Cranston, 2000 (Tanypodinae) larvae were sampled from tropical and temperate populations separated by approximately 1800 km, and reared to adult at temperatures representing the continent-wide range encountered by these species. Additionally, adults were sampled regularly from a field population to assess seasonal variation. Body size was related inversely to rearing temperature for both species. Nonlinear (allometric) relationships were observed consistently between body size and ratios pertaining to the antennae (AR, the ratio of the terminal to subapical flagellomeres) and legs (BV, the ratio of proximal segments to distal tarsomeres), demonstrating that these ratios inadequately factor out within-species, size-related divergence. Responses of other ratios varied erratically with sex, species, and population. We advocate cautious use of these ratios in taxonomy and phylogenetic reconstruction. We discuss possible adaptive significance of allometry in the male antennae related to the "tuning" of sound-sensitive structures to the expected terrestrial environment encountered at emergence.
RNA-Guided DNA Deletion in Tetrahymena: An RNAi-Based Mechanism for Programmed Genome Rearrangements
Authors: Yao Meng-Chao , Chao Ju-Lan
Published: August 2005

Ciliated protozoan are unicellular eukaryotes. Most species in this diverse group display nuclear dualism, a special feature that supports both somatic and germline nuclei in the same cell. Probably due to this unique life style, they exhibit unusual nuclear characteristics that have intrigued researchers for decades. Among them are large-scale DNA rearrangements, which restructure the somatic genome to become drastically different from its germline origin. They resemble the classical phenomenon of chromatin diminution in some nematodes discovered more than a century ago. The mechanisms of such rearrangements, their biological roles, and their evolutionary origins have been difficult to understand. Recent studies have revealed a clear link to RNA interference, and begin to shed light on these issues. Using the simple ciliate Tetrahymena as a model, this chapter summarizes the physical characterization of these processes, describes recent findings that connect them to RNA interference, and discusses the details of their mechanisms, potential roles in genome defense, and possible occurrences in other organisms.
Variability of Nuchal Translucency Measurement
Authors: Suntharasaj Thitima , Ratanasiri Thawalwong , Chanprapaph Pharuhas , Kengpol Chitkasaem , Kor-anantakul Ounjai , Leetanaporn Roengsak , Prasartwanakit Visit , Kleebkaow Pilaiwan , Tongsong Theera , Sirichotiyakul Supatra
Published: August 2005

Objectives: To evaluate intra- and inter-observer variations of nuchal translucency (NT) measurements and study the duration of measurements. Subjects: One hundred and forty-seven singleton pregnant women with 10–14 weeks of gestation who had attended antenatal clinic during January 1st, 2000–August 31st, 2001 were included. Methods: Crown-rump length and NT were measured three times for each woman. Then, another examiner who was unaware of the previous results did the other three measurements. The duration of measurements was recorded. Intra-observer and inter-observer variations were analyzed by repeated ANOVA and paired t test, respectively. The correlation of NT measurements within each observer and between paired observers was evaluated by intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). Kappa statistic was calculated for agreement. Results: Intra-observer variation of all 10 examiners at three institutes was varied from 0.20 ± 0.27 to 0.33 ± 0.41 mm. Inter-observer variation at Chiang Mai University was 0.40 ± 0.37 mm which was the highest value compared with those at Prince of Songkla and Khon Kaen University (p < 0.05). The mean duration of measurements was in range of 8–12 min. The intra-observer repeatability of the first two measurements showed ICCs varying from 0.61 to 0.94. The inter-observer repeatability of paired examiners showed a variation in ICC from 0.28–0.90. The kappa value expressing the intra- and inter-observer repeatability as being >95th or ≤95th percentile was 0.73 and 0.72, respectively. Conclusions: NT measurement was reproducible for small variation and good agreement. The duration of measurements was acceptable.
In silico Analysis of 2085 Clones from a Normalized Rat Vestibular Periphery 3′ cDNA Library
Authors: Roche Joseph P. , Wackym P. Ashley , Cioffi Joseph A. , Kwitek Anne E. , Erbe Christy B. , Popper Paul
Published: August 2005

The inserts from 2400 cDNA clones isolated from a normalized Rattus norvegicus vestibular periphery cDNA library were sequenced and characterized. The Wackym-Soares vestibular 3′ cDNA library was constructed from the saccular and utricular maculae, the ampullae of all three semicircular canals and Scarpa’s ganglia containing the somata of the primary afferent neurons, microdissected from 104 male and female rats. The inserts from 2400 randomly selected clones were sequenced from the 5′ end. Each sequence was analyzed using the BLAST algorithm compared to the Genbank nonredundant, rat genome, mouse genome and human genome databases to search for high homology alignments. Of the initial 2400 clones, 315 (13%) were found to be of poor quality and did not yield useful information, and therefore were eliminated from the analysis. Of the remaining 2085 sequences, 918 (44%) were found to represent 758 unique genes having useful annotations that were identified in databases within the public domain or in the published literature; these sequences were designated as known characterized sequences. 1141 sequences (55%) aligned with 1011 unique sequences had no useful annotations and were designated as known but uncharacterized sequences. Of the remaining 26 sequences (1%), 24 aligned with rat genomic sequences, but none matched previously described rat expressed sequence tags or mRNAs. No significant alignment to the rat or human genomic sequences could be found for the remaining 2 sequences. Of the 2085 sequences analyzed, 86% were singletons. The known, characterized sequences were analyzed with the FatiGO online data-mining tool (http://fatigo.bioinfo.cnio.es/) to identify level 5 biological process gene ontology (GO) terms for each alignment and to group alignments with similar or identical GO terms. Numerous genes were identified that have not been previously shown to be expressed in the vestibular system. Further characterization of the novel cDNA sequences may lead to the identification of genes with vestibular-specific functions. Continued analysis of the rat vestibular periphery transcriptome should provide new insights into vestibular function and generate new hypotheses. Physiological studies are necessary to further elucidate the roles of the identified genes and novel sequences in vestibular function.
Effect Size Estimates of Lifestyle and Dietary Changes on All-Cause Mortality in Coronary Artery Disease Patients
Authors: Iestra J.A. , Kromhout D. , van der Schouw Y.T. , Grobbee D.E. , Boshuizen H.C. , van Staveren W.A.
Published: August 2005

Background—

Guidelines for lifestyle and dietary modification in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) are mainly supported by evidence from general population studies. CAD patients, however, differ from the general population in age (older) and treatment with preventive drugs. This review seeks to provide evidence for a prognostic benefit of lifestyle and dietary recommendations from studies in CAD patients.

Methods and Results—

A literature search was performed on the effect of lifestyle and dietary changes on mortality in CAD patients. Prospective cohort studies and randomized controlled trials of patients with established CAD were included if they reported all-causes mortality and had at least 6 months of follow-up. The effect estimates of smoking cessation (relative risk [RR], 0.64; 95% CI, 0.58 to 0.71), increased physical activity (RR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.59 to 0.98), and moderate alcohol use (RR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.78 to 0.83) were studied most extensively. For the 6 dietary goals, data were too limited to provide reliable effect size estimates. Combinations of dietary changes were associated with reduced mortality (RR, 0.56; 95% CI, 0.42 to 0.74).

Conclusions—

Available studies show convincingly the health benefits of lifestyle changes in CAD patients. Effect estimates of combined dietary changes look promising. Future studies should confirm these findings and assess the contribution of the individual dietary factors.
Psychological and Situational Influences on Commuter-Transport-Mode Choice
Authors: Collins Christy M. , Chambers Susan M.
Published: August 2005

The relative importance and relationship between psychological and situational factors in predicting commuter-transport-mode choice was tested by four hypotheses. First, the influence of individuals’ values on commuter behavior is mediated by their corresponding beliefs about the environmental threat of cars (mediation hypothesis). Second, the influence of these beliefs on behavior is moderated by individual consideration of future consequences and control beliefs (moderation hypothesis). Third, cost, time, and access factors contribute to individuals’ commuter choice (situational hypothesis). Fourth, situational and psychological factors jointly influence proenvironmental behavior (interaction hypothesis). A sample of 205 Australian university students completed a survey to measure these relationships. Regression analyses indicated support for the mediation, situational, and interaction hypotheses. It was concluded that to achieve a transport-mode shift to public transport, public policy strategies should focus on individuals’ transport-related environmental beliefs (personal control and environmental effect of cars) and situations (access to public transport at reduced cost).
Democracy in Our Backyards
Authors: Stephan Mark
Published: August 2005

Although community involvement in administrative decision making is a growing phenomenon, it has received little attention in the political behavior literature. In this study, the author uses an area of environmental decision making to better understand the expanded opportunities for citizen action. The motivations and resources that influence other forms of political participation are expected to be of influence here as well. The analyses suggest that resources and motivations do matter, with the relationship between poverty and involvement being the most interesting result. Poorer communities were found to be more likely to mobilize than were their better off counterparts. Suggestions are made to explain this result combined with a discussion of other key factors.
The Personal Living Space Cue Inventory
Authors: Gosling Samuel D. , Craik Kenneth H. , Martin Nicholas R. , Pryor Michelle R.
Published: August 2005

The authors introduce the Personal Living Space Cue Inventory (PLSCI), designed to document comprehensively features of personal living spaces (PLSs); common examples of PLSs include rooms in family households, dormitories, or residential centers. The article describes the PLSCI’s development and provides evidence for its reliability and sensitivity. Next, the authors employ case-study comparisons to illustrate and evaluate the perspectives provided by global descriptors and specific-content codings. It is concluded that global ratings and specific codings provide complementary yet distinct characterizations of PLSs.
Pathway Curvature and Border Visibility as Predictors of Preference and Danger in Forest Settings
Authors: Herzog Thomas R. , Kirk Kristin M.
Published: August 2005

The authors investigated pathway curvature and pathway border visibility as predictors of preference and perceived danger in forest settings. Participants rated 56 forest settings containing pathways for one of four variables—mystery, visual access, pathway length, and pathway width—or for one of four additional predictors. Pathway curvature was unrelated to preference, danger, or mystery. Border visibility and visual access were positively related to preference, negatively related to danger, and positively related to each other. Preference and danger were negatively related. Danger was more strongly related to the predictors than was preference. Mystery had a modest negative relation with preference and substantial relations with danger (positive) and visual access (negative). Factor analysis of the predictor inter-correlations revealed a visibility construct. Visibility scores were positively related to preference and negatively related to danger. For within-forest settings, danger seems to be more salient than preference, and visibility is a major concern.
Ecological Disaster as Contextual Transformation
Authors: Marshall Brent K. , Picou J. Steven , Bevc Christine A.
Published: August 2005

The biophysical context and contextual change have significant economic, cultural, social, and psychological consequences for individuals and communities. Although acknowledging the importance of the biophysical context for theoretical and conceptual issues, social science research typically is conducted as if context does not matter. The authors discuss the relevance of context and outline research that examines the effects of context through assumed contextual variation, subjective contextual variables, objective contextual variables, and temporal contextual variation. The authors hypothesize that an ecological disaster occurring in a community where people are connected to the biophysical environment and ecological processes will result in the adoption of a more ecological worldview. This hypothesis is tested by analyzing data collected in the renewable resource communities of Cordova and Petersburg, Alaska, in the aftermath of the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill. The authors find support for this hypothesis and provide suggestions for future research.
Dialectical Materialism and Nature
Authors: Clark Brett , York Richard
Published: August 2005

Two commonly held views about the nature of Nature lead to a systematic misunderstanding and mismeasurment of natural processes. The “economistic” view conceives of the natural environment as a repository of resources, available for human exploitation, and “services” provided by mechanistic ecological processes. The economistic perspective leads to a failure to properly recognize the sharp distinctions between ecological and economic processes, by positing that environmental-sustainability issues can be successfully addressed by “economizing ecology and ecologizing the economy.” The deep ecology view conceives of nature in an idealized manner as a harmonious system in eternal balance unless disturbed by humans. This perspective fails to appreciate the material basis of nature and society and views changes in value systems as the key to achieving ecological sustainability. The authors advocate an alternative conception—one developed by Marxist scholars in the natural sciences that eschews both mechanistic and idealized conceptions of nature in favor of a dialectical, historical, and materialist view of natural processes. This approach allows us to better understand natural history and the dynamic processes of human interaction with the environment.
Organizational Resource Bundles and Institutional Change in the U.S. Organic Food and Agricultural Certification Sector
Authors: Marshall R. Scott , Standifird Stephen S.
Published: August 2005

This analysis explores the competitive implications of new institutional standards within the organic certification industry based on a theoretical perspective that integrates institutional and resource-based theories. The authors provide a historical account of the development of certification standards and discussions of three certification agencies: Quality Assurance International (QAI), Oregon Tilth, Inc. (OTCO) and the Food Alliance (FA). They find that QAI incorporated the standards into its overall resource bundle. Conversely, the imposition of national standards seemed to diminish OTCO’s position by institutionalizing standards previously considered unique. Finally, FA focused on exceeding the expectations of the newly promulgated national standards. Thus, the development of national standards may serve as source of competitive advantage or constraint depending on the organization’s preexisting resource bundles. In addition, the evolution of national standards may permit the emergence of a latent niche focused on exceeding the expectations of the new standards.
The Artistic and the Literary Imagination in Australia and Beyond
Authors: Sharp Nonie
Published: August 2005

This essay reflects upon the reasons for the early dominance of the painting tradition in Australia and the later blossoming of both visual and literary art forms. Artists tapped into cross-currents of feeling and opinion—at times with praise, on other occasions with a sense of an alien, forbidding nature. A literature of place, often referred to as nature writing, could only thrive when people’s hearts were with Australian places. Artists facilitated this attunement. Nature writing has now begun to take hold in Australia so offering an opportunity to look back and deeper our understanding of times marked by its absence. Today, the nowhereness of cyberspace stirs a yearning for the sense of embodiment that goes with place and home, thus providing an opportunity to understand the shaping of an Australian literary imagination and a poetic sensibility that goes beyond poetry in seeking to defend places of the heart.
The effects of knee-ankle-foot orthoses in the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy: review of the literature
Authors: Bakker J P J , de Groot I J M , Beckerman H , de Jong B A , Lankhorst G J
Published: August 2005

Objective:A systematic review of the available literature on the effectiveness of knee-ankle-foot orthoses in the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Design:A computer search was carried out (MEDLINE 1966–97, CINAHL 1982–97) using the key words muscular dystrophy, rehabilitation, locomotion, braces or orthotic devices. References in relevant publications and nonindexed journals were also examined. Criteria to include and exclude articles were formulated. We used a systematic review procedure to evaluate the literature. Seven methodological criteria were formulated.

Results:Thirty articles describing 35 studies met the inclusion criteria for our review, nine studies were selected based on completeness of information on study population, treatment and quantitative presentation of the effect outcome. Operations on the lower limbs were performed on most patients. A concomitant programme of rehabilitation was not described thoroughly. A percentage success of treatment was calculated for eight studies. Median percentage after one year was 75.1, after two years 47.9 and after three years 24.3. The median for the means of independent walking was 24 months, the median for the means of assisted walking was 36.2 months and the median for the means of standing ability was 50.5 months duration.

Conclusion: The scientific strength of the studies reviewed is poor. It seems that the use of knee-ankle foot orthoses can prolong assisted walking and standing, but it is uncertain whether it can prolong functional walking. The boys that benefit most have a relatively low rate of deterioration, are capable of enduring an operation and are well motivated.
Inter-rater reliability of the Frenchay Activities Index in patients with stroke and their carers
Authors: Piercy Martina , Carter Judy , Mant Jonathan , Wade Derick T
Published: August 2005

Objective: To measure the inter-rater reliability of the interview-administered version of the Frenchay Activities Index (FAI).

Design: Comparison of FAI score on the same person when administered by two raters (mean time between interviews 15.2 days).

Subjects: Fifty-nine Oxfordshire residents who either had had a stroke (n = 35) or were the main carer (n = 24).

Results: The 95% limits of agreement for the FAI totals were –9.9 to +8.4. The kappa statistic for nine of the 15 items showed a good level of agreement between the two research interviews (0.64–0.80). The other six items showed fair or moderate strength of agreement (0.26–0.52). Three items showed significant differences between the two raters p < 0.05 (Wilcoxon's sign paired rank sum test). The mean difference between the total scores was –0.76 (95% confidence interval from –1.98 to 0.46). Spearman's rho correlation coefficient for FAI totals of rater B against A was r(59) = 0.93 (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: The FAI is a reliable tool for measuring outcome following stroke. Suggestions are made to strengthen the reliability, and consequently the validity of the measure.
Reliability of tremor measurements using a multidimensional electromagnetic sensor system
Authors: Spyers-Ashby Julia M , Stokes Maria J
Published: August 2005

Objective: To investigate the reliability of repeated measurements of normal physiological tremor made with a multidimensional measurement system.

Equipment: Measurements of postural upper limb tremor at the hand were made in 10 normal subjects using a 3Space Fastrak® (Polhemus, Inc.) which detects movement over six degrees-of-freedom (three of the measurement directions were examined).

Data collection: Reliability was assessed for two alternative upper limb postures (arm straight or bent) and data were collected on two days, twice at each session, to determine the repeatability between and within recording sessions.

Data analysis: The data were split into segments and subjected to autoregressive (AR) modelling. Three parameters (one for each of the measurement directions examined) were extracted from the models and used as variables for the reliability analysis.

Statistical tests: Variation within and between sessions was assessed by finding the median differences between efforts and days for each subject and then finding the overall median value and the corresponding 97.9% confidence intervals for each movement. This produced estimates of the population median value and indicated the precision of the estimates.

Results: All the confidence intervals encompassed the zero median difference point indicating that, in the population, this technique would produce repeatable results. For between-efforts comparisons there was some evidence that data collected for the bent arm posture were more repeatable than for a straight arm.

Conclusion: Normal physiological tremor can be measured reliably, within and between sessions, using the 3Space Fastrak system.
The Huntingdon Day Hospital Trial: secondary outcome measures
Authors: Burch Sarah , Longbottom Jenny , McKay Maggie , Borland Colin , Prevost Toby
Published: August 2005

Objective: To compare day hospital to day centre rehabilitation using scales to measure mobility, activities of daily living and quality of life.

Design: Single blind randomized controlled trial with home assessments at baseline (twice), six weeks and three months.

Setting: Mainly rural health district. Day hospital and social services day centres in market towns.

Interventions: Day hospital treatment or day centre rehabilitation by a physiotherapist and two health support workers.

Main outcome measures: World Health Organization mobility scale scored with and without aid, Nottingham Extended Activities of Daily Living Scale and Nottingham Health Profile.

Subjects: One hundred and five physically disabled older patients living at home referred for day hospital rehabilitation or maintenance before discharge from hospital (66) or referred as outpatients (39).

Results: At three months there were no statistically significant differences between rehabilitation at day hospital and day centre for any of the outcome measurements. However, there were significant improvements between baseline and three months for the following subscales [mean change per six-week period (95% confidence interval)]: WHO mobility subscale (with aid) – 0.67 (–0.99,–0.35); Nottingham Health Profile mobility subscale –10 (–15.5,–4.5) Nottingham extended ADL mobility subscale +3.08 (1.78,4.37); Nottingham extended ADL leisure subscale +1.66 (0.96,2.36).

Conclusion: There were no differences between day hospital and day centre in the outcomes measured. Day rehabilitation appeared to improve functional ability and mobility and scales reflecting these domains deserve further evaluation as outcome measures in this patient group. However, no improvement in quality of life was observed.