bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Practical guide to ocular ultrasonography in horses and farm animals
Authors: Hallowell Gayle , Potter Timothy
Published: October 2010

ULTRASONOGRAPHY is an underused imaging modality in practice for the examination of the large animal eye, especially in food‐producing animals. It can be performed easily using ultrasound equipment that is readily available to the large animal veterinary surgeon and can provide valuable diagnostic and prognostic information quickly and cheaply. It allows visualisation and examination of the eye or its internal structure that would otherwise be difficult to assess due to eyelid swelling or eyelid closure following trauma, opacification of the cornea or anterior chamber, or because of lens and vitreal opacities. It also allows investigation of exophthalmos and the extent of tumour progression, particularly squamous cell carcinoma in cattle. This article describes how to carry out ocular ultrasound examination in horses and farm animals, and highlights normal findings and some commonly encountered abnormalities seen in these species.
Post‐parturition examination of the newborn foal and mare
Authors: Shepherd Chris
Published: October 2010

Checking the newborn foal and mare following parturition involves clinical examination of both animals and a discussion with the owner to ensure that any ongoing prophylactic care and management is instituted as necessary. The animals should be assessed within the first 24 hours following birth but the actual timing will depend on the parturition and the early period of adaptation being ‘normal’. Some owners may need guidance over the telephone to determine whether the sequence of events during a birth has been normal. At the examination, a brief discussion relating to the mare (eg, breeding history, general health and gestation length) will alert the veterinary surgeon to potential problems. Foals born before 320 days' gestation are considered premature. An assessment of standard parameters for the foal will confirm whether it is adapting satisfactorily. This article describes the routine examination of the newborn foal and mare, using a body system approach, to ensure the normal transition to extrauterine life of the former. Pre‐prepared forms may be useful to make sure that nothing is missed. Medical or surgical emergencies are beyond the scope of this article.
Disbudding illegally
Authors: Mullan Siobhan
Published: October 2010

The dilemma in the February issue concerned a dairy goat farmer interested in becoming a client at a practice (In Practice, February 2010, volume 32, pages 78–79). He was told that he would be taken on as a client providing the vet undertook the disbudding of goat kids on farm, as it was a legal requirement that this was done under anaesthetic by a vet. However, the farmer did not want the additional expense and did not contact the practice again. The farm was still in business, and the vet suspected the farmer was disbudding the kids himself without anaesthesia. Kathy Anzuino commented that there were good reasons for a vet to undertake the procedure, which had been translated into law. By declining to take the farmer as a client, the vet made animal welfare the primary consideration and did not inadvertently condone an illegal practice. A possible way forward would be to find out more about the farmer's reasons for disbudding illegally, as there might be other reasons besides cost and convenience why he did not contact the practice. Although resuming discussions with the farmer might be difficult, the farm would require veterinary input eventually, thus providing an opportunity for further dialogue. If the farmer was still reluctant to disbud legally, the vet could explain that the farmer's actions meant that he or she had little choice but to report the farm. Reporting should remain a last resort, as vets were often in a position of trust and farmers should feel that they could continue to see them as part of solutions to shared concerns.
Postoperative responsibility
Authors: Main Clare
Published: October 2010

THIS series gives readers the opportunity to consider and contribute to discussion of some of the ethical dilemmas that can arise in veterinary practice. Each month, a case scenario is presented, followed by discussion of some of the issues involved. In addition, a possible way forward is suggested; however, there is rarely a cut‐anddried answer in such cases, and readers may wish to suggest an alternative approach. This month's dilemma, ‘Postoperative responsibility’, was submitted by a reader and is presented and discussed by Clare Main. Readers with comments to contribute are invited to send them as soon as possible, so that they can be considered for publication in the next issue. Discussion of the dilemma ‘Canine blood donor’, which was published in the November/December 2009 issue of In Practice, appears on page 39.

The series is being coordinated by Siobhan Mullan, of the University of Bristol. It is hoped it will provide a framework that will help practices find solutions when facing similar dilemmas.
Blood transfusions in dogs and cats 2. Practicalities of blood collection and administration
Authors: Helm Jenny , Knottenbelt Clare
Published: October 2010

Part 1 of this article, published in the May issue of In Practice (volume 32, pp 184–189), described the properties of different blood products in transfusion medicine and outlined how they might be used to best effect in veterinary practice. However, despite the increasing availability of such blood products, veterinary surgeons still need to know how to collect blood in emergency situations, and how to administer blood and blood products safely. As there is currently no blood banking system available for cats in the UK, collection and administration of blood in‐house remains the only alternative for this species. This article discusses the selection of appropriate canine and feline donors and describes how to collect blood safely. In addition, it highlights the problems associated with the selection of feline donors with appropriate blood type.
Liver biopsy in horses
Authors: Rendle David
Published: October 2010

Due to the liver's large reserve capacity, clinical signs of hepatopathy in horses do not usually become apparent until 60 per cent of hepatic function is lost, so subclinical disease is common. The signs are frequently vague, with abnormal serum biochemistry results often being the first indicator of liver dysfunction. Hepatic insults may be self‐limiting or secondary to other conditions so it can be difficult to determine those cases that warrant further investigation. Non‐invasive tests are less reliable in predicting the severity of hepatic disease compared with histopathology, which provides valuable information about aetiology, treatment and prognosis. This article describes how to conduct a liver biopsy in horses and hopefully provides reassurance that it is a safe procedure that should be considered early on in the investigation of hepatic disease.
Dynamics of An Exploited Population of Lake Whitefish (Coregonus clupeaformis) In Lake Huron
Authors: Henderson B. A. , Collins J. J. , Reckahn J. A.
Published: October 2010

A population of lake whitefish (Coregonus clupeaformis) in the waters off eastern Manitoulin Island in Lake Huron was sampled from 1950 to 1982 by an experimental pound net in the outer basin of South Bay. Year-class strength increased markedly from 1947 to 1977; the increase began with the decline of the 1943 year-class. The fork length attained by age 1–3 fish decreased during the study, but no trend was apparent for older fish. Natural mortality of year-classes varied considerably, and was probably related to the abundance of lamprey. The annual exploitation rate increased from 1 to 37% between 1960 and 1977. Year-class strength was not correlated with the thermal regime during spawning and hatching. Recruitment was a function of parental stock size, and there was evidence that survival from the egg to juvenile stage was inversely correlated with parental stock size. Instantaneous growth rates (G) during the 2nd year of growth were inversely related to year-class strength. Growth (G) in the 1st year was positively correlated with estimated surface water temperatures. The sizes attained by ages 2 and 3 were inversely related to total population abundance. Catchability coefficients in 144-mm-mesh gill nets were inversely related to estimated population sizes. An intrinsic mechanism of population regulation is proposed whereby recruitment is a function of parental stock size, juvenile survival is inversely related to stock size, and growth is inversely correlated with population abundance.
Effects of Hypoxia and Surface Access on Growth, Mortality, and Behavior of Juvenile Guppies, Poecilia reticulata
Authors: Weber Jean-Michel , Kramer Donald L.
Published: October 2010

Juvenile guppies (Poecilia reticulata) were fed ad libitum and maintained for 11 d at oxygen concentrations ranging from 0.5 to 8 mg/L (25–26 °C). With access to the surface, guppies showed high growth rates and low mortality at all concentrations. Without surface access, they exhibited a progressive reduction in growth rate below 2–3 mg/L and did not survive below 1 mg/L. Activity was influenced by oxygen concentration and surface access. Feeding rates declined sharply with oxygen concentration for fish without surface access and to a lesser extent for fish with access. Percent time in contact with the surface increased as oxygen decreased. Aquatic surface respiration is used even when this behavior is not necessary for survival. We suggest that aquatic surface respiration increases the energy available for growth under hypoxic conditions by augmenting oxygen supply, which permits greater ingestion rate, and possibly by decreasing the cost of ventilation.
Ceratomyxa shasta: Longevity, Distribution, Timing, and Abundance of the Infective Stage In Central Oregon
Authors: Ratliff Donald E.
Published: October 2010

Characteristics of the infective stage of Ceratomyxa shasta were studied in the Deschutes River of central Oregon from 1972 through 1981. The infective stage remained viable < 10 d in Deschutes River water maintained in aerated, river-temperature-controlled aquaria. Live-cage exposures of susceptible rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) indicated that infectious C. shasta emanate from the bottoms of two reservoirs. Epilimnions of both reservoirs did not contain the infective stage during thermally stratified periods. Infectious C. shasta originating in one reservoir passed down the Deschutes and Columbia rivers. During spring and summer, infectious C. shasta in the other reservoir did not reach the outlet, located 56 m above the bottom. In the Deschutes River, the infective period began before March 31 in 1978, between April 3 and 10 in 1979, and between April 16 and 23 in 1981 when river temperatures were between 6.9 and 8.6 °C. Consecutive exposures of trout to the same water in aquaria indicated that all infectious C. shasta were removed or inactivated during initial exposures. Progressively doubling numbers of test fish exposed in different aquaria showed that one C. shasta is capable of causing the death of one susceptible fingerling rainbow trout. Peak abundance of C. shasta in Deschutes River water during 1979 was estimated at 148 infectious units/m3 on June 4. Abundance decreased significantly between 1978 and 1981, presumably because of elimination of ceratomyxosis-caused deaths of hatchery rainbow trout and associated spore deposition in one reservoir. Both the formation of reservoirs and liberation of susceptible host fish can lead to an increased number of C. shasta, and result in serious C. shasta-induced losses in native salmonid populations.
Substrate Selection by Tubificid Oligochaetes
Authors: McMurtry M. J. , Rapport D. J. , Chua K. E.
Published: October 2010

Groups composed of Tubifex tubifex and Limnodrilus hoffmeisteri collected from Keating Channel and Hanlan's Point in Toronto Harbor, Lake Ontario, preferred Keating Channel sediment over Hanlan's Point sediment in laboratory substrate selection experiments. The degree of preference did not differ between the two species. Substrate selection appears to be a taxic response to dispersing microbiota or molecules with molecular weight greater than 12 000–14 000. Percent organic content, concentrations of selected chemical elements and particle size do not account for the observed preference. However, there was a significant correlation between the abundance of heterotrophic aerobic bacteria in sediment and tubificid preference. We suggest that the microbial constituents of the sediment are more important than its physical and chemical properties in influencing substrate selection by tubificids.
Stable Carbon Isotope Ratios: Implications for the Source of Sediment Carbon and for Phytoplankton Carbon Assimilation in Lake Memphremagog Quebec
Authors: LaZerte Bruce D.
Published: October 2010

The stable carbon isotope (SCI) ratio of the sediment of Lake Memphremagog, Quebec is compared with that of terrestrial sources and the phytoplankton to determine the relative proportion of allochthonous carbon incorporated into the sediments. Approximately 40–50% of the organic carbon in the main basins' pelagic sediment was terrestrial in origin, whereas up to 100% was terrestrial in littoral areas. The SCI method of determining the organic carbon source of sediments appears more reliable than the C/N method. A comparison of the SCI fractionation of the phytoplankton with laboratory cultures under different degrees of carbon limitation indicates that the phytoplankton of Lake Memphremagog are not carbon limited and fix carbon primarily by the C3 pathway.
Responses of Stream Zoobenthos to Enrichment of Gravel Substrates with Cereal Grain and Soybean
Authors: Mundie J. H. , McKinnell S. M. , Traber R. E.
Published: October 2010

In four separate replicated experiments, cereal grain or soybean was added at a rate of 500 mL/m2 to standard gravel in parallel troughs in a stream. The invertebrates that colonized the gravel were collected, after 32–65 d, in a net of mesh 350 μm; this retained about 19% of the fauna numerically. Numbers and weights were estimated after instantaneous subdivision, and differences tested by nested ANOVA. The enriched troughs contained 1.5–2.9 times the weight of invertebrates of the controls. Increases in numbers ranged from 1.4 to 1.9 times, and were owing to Chironomidae and Oligochaeta. Ephemeroptera showed a significant increase in only 1 trial. Responses of other groups of insects could not be tested on account of their low abundance. A trial with 1000 mL of grain/m2 did not produce a proportional increase in fauna. No significant differences were found in the numbers and weights of invertebrates drifting from the control and treatment troughs. We conclude that grain and soybean can be used in the field culture of salmonid food organisms.
Size Structure of the Plankton Community Along the Trophic Gradient of Lake Memphremagog
Authors: Peters Robert Henry
Published: October 2010

The size distribution of epilimnetic plankton at four sites of differing trophic state was examined from May 1977 to May 1978 to examine the applicability to lakes of Sheldon's hypothesis that logarithmically ordered size classes contain approximately constant concentrations of biomass. The plankton was sized by serial filtration through a series of screens of mesh size 102, 75, 55, 35, 20, and 10 μm and a 0.45-μm Millipore filter. Biomass in each fraction was measured as particulate phosphorus concentration. I tested the hypothesis by examining the fit of regressions of particulate P concentration in each sequential fraction against the logarithm of the geometric mean of the meshes used to delimit that fraction. Sheldon's hypothesis leads one to expect a linear relationship. In most cases this was found but exceptions were common, and some size classes contained significantly more or less P than the linear model (Sheldon's hypothesis) would suggest. Comparison of the amount of P in the size classes I studied with previous estimates of the biomass of zooplankton and fish suggest that larger organisms may also fit the relation. The slope and intercept of these regressions between biomass and filter size increase with lake trophic state. This may allow an approximate prediction of community size structure in other lakes based on measured or predicted concentrations of total phosphorus.
A Revised Classification of Lakes Based on Mixing
Authors: Lewis Jr. William M.
Published: October 2010

Deficiencies in the Hutchinson–Löffler classification of lakes based on mixing are reviewed and organized under the following headings: (1) exclusion of shallow lakes, (2) unsatisfactory relationship between meromixis and the six basic lake types, (3) excessively complex treatment of tropical lakes, and (4) difficulties in classification of cold lakes due to the 4 °C boundary on cold monomixis. A revision remedies these deficiencies with minimal changes in terminology and conceptual foundation of the original classification. The revision incorporates the following features: (1) the meromixis/holomixis dichotomy is combined with the six lake types based on seasonal mixing in such a way that the two systems are hierarchical and universal; meromictic lakes are assigned to a seasonal type on the basis of the behavior of the upper water column, (2) oligomixis is eliminated, (3) shallow lakes are brought under the classification by definition of four polymictic types based on ice cover and frequency of mixing. Dependence of the eight mixing types of the revised classification on latitude, elevation, and depth is estimated from existing data, and examples are given of each type.
Zooplankton and Trophic State Relationships in Florida Lakes
Authors: Bays J. S. , Crisman T. L.
Published: October 2010

Zooplankton, including ciliated protozoans, were collected from 39 Florida lakes of widely ranging trophic state. Annual mean biomass values for different zooplankton groups were regressed against Carlson's Trophic State Index based on annual mean chlorophyll a concentration. Whereas total zooplankton biomass yielded a significant regression with increasing trophic state, microzooplankton (ciliates, rotifers, and nauplii) accounted for more of the relationship than macrozooplankton (cladocera, calanoids, and cyclopoids). Within the microzooplankton, the regression improved with decreasing body size. Macrozooplankton biomass exhibited a weak statistical relationship with lake trophic state, but the different component groups were variable in their response. The dominance within the zooplankton community shifts from macrozooplankton to microzooplankton with increasing trophic state, and the microzooplankton can constitute between 50 and 90% of the total zooplankton biomass in eutrophic lakes. Changes in zooplanktivore community structure with increasing trophic state show that whereas total fish biomass increases, dominance shifts from visually oriented predators, such as bass and bluegill, to pump filter-feeding planktivores, such as gizzard shad (Dorosoma cepedianum). While Florida zooplankton communities are similar in size structure to tropical communities, no statistically significant differences were found between empirical equations of crustacean zooplankton biomass and trophic state determined from temperate and Florida data bases.
Genetic effects of major QTLs controlling low-temperature germinability in different genetic backgrounds in rice (Oryza sativaL.)
Authors: Iwata Natsuko , Fujino Kenji
Published: October 2010

The effects of QTLs are demonstrated basically within the population used in the original QTL analysis as the difference between the alleles of the parental varieties. For the efficient use of QTLs in breeding programs, it is necessary to assess whether the QTL exhibits its genetic effect when it is introgressed into different genetic backgrounds. Extensive studies of tolerance to low temperature at the seed germination stage (called low-temperature germinability) in rice revealed that 2 major QTLs on chromosomes 3 and 11, qLTG3-1 and qLTG11, have large effects. This study assessed the effects of these 2 QTLs from an aus variety, Kasalath, in different genetic backgrounds of 3 japonica varieties, Hoshinoyume, Hayamasari, and Koshihikari. Backcrossed progenies and chromosome segment substitution lines showed that both qLTG3-1 and qLTG11 were effective in the Hoshinoyume and Koshihikari backgrounds, while only qLTG3-1 was effective in the Hayamasari background. The results in this study demonstrated that these 2 QTLs are useful for the improvement of low-temperature germinability in rice breeding programs. The results also indicated that low-temperature germinability in rice is governed by an epistatic interaction of qLTG11.
Isolating promoters of multigene family members from the polyploid sugarcane genome by PCR-based walking in BAC DNA
Authors: Damaj Mona B. , Beremand Phillip D. , Buenrostro-Nava Marco T. , Ivy John , Kumpatla Siva P. , Jifon John , Beyene Getu , Yu Qingyi , Thomas Terry L. , Mirkov T. Erik
Published: October 2010

The availability of a wider range of promoters for regulated expression in valuable transgenic crops would benefit functional genomics studies and current biotechnology programs aimed at improved productivity. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based genome walking techniques are commonly used to isolate promoters or 5′ flanking genomic regions adjacent to known cDNA sequences in genomes that are not yet completely sequenced. However, these techniques are problematic when applied directly to DNA isolated from crops with highly complex and large genomes. An adaptor ligation-mediated PCR-based BAC genome walking method is described here for the efficient isolation of promoters of multigene family members, such as the putative defense and fiber biosynthesis DIRIGENT genes that are abundant in the stem of sugarcane, a species with a highly polyploid genome. The advantage of this method is the efficient and specific amplification of the target promoter using BAC genomic DNA as template for the adaptor ligation-mediated PCR walking.
Characterization of three terpenoid glycosyltransferase genes in ‘Valencia’ sweet orange (Citrus sinensis L. Osbeck)
Authors: Fan Jing , Chen Chunxian , Yu Qibin , Li Zheng-Guo , Gmitter Frederick G.
Published: October 2010

Three putative terpenoid UDP-glycosyltransferase (UGT) genes, designated CsUGT1, CsUGT2, and CsUGT3, were isolated and characterized in ‘Valencia’ sweet orange ( Citrus sinensis L. Osbeck). CsUGT1 consisted of 1493 nucleotides with an open reading frame encoding 492 amino acids, CsUGT2 consisted of 1727 nucleotides encoding 504 amino acids, and CsUGT3 consisted of 1705 nucleotides encoding 468 amino acids. CsUGT3 had a 145 bp intron at 730–874, whereas CsUGT1 and CsUGT2 had none. The three deduced glycosyltransferase proteins had a highly conserved plant secondary product glycosyltransferase motif in the C terminus. Phylogenetic analysis showed that CsUGT1 and CsUGT3 were classified into group L of glycosyltransferase family 1, and CsUGT2 was classified into group D. Through Southern blotting analysis, CsUGT1 was found to have two copies in the sweet orange genome, whereas CsUGT2 and CsUGT3 had at least seven and nine copies, respectively. CsUGT1, CsUGT2, and CsUGT3 were constitutively expressed in leaf, flower, and fruit tissues. The results facilitate further investigation of the function of terpenoid glycosyltransferases in citrus and the biosynthesis of terpenoid glycosides in vitro.
Mechanisms of magnesium amelioration of aluminum toxicity in soybean at the gene expression level
Authors: Duressa Dechassa , Soliman Khairy M. , Chen Dongquan
Published: October 2010

Micromolar concentration of magnesium (Mg) in culture solution is known to ameliorate aluminum (Al) toxicity in soybean and other leguminous species. To advance the understanding of this phenomenon at the level of gene expression in soybean, we undertook a comparative transcriptome analysis using DNA microarrays and Al-tolerant and Al-sensitive genotypes treated with Al ions alone or Al plus Mg ions. We observed a more rapid alteration of transcription for Al-tolerant than Al-sensitive soybean after introduction of Mg into Al-containing medium, but at 72 h, far more genes were altered (both upregulated and downregulated) in the Al-sensitive line, reflecting the known greater saving effect of Mg for Al-sensitive than Al-tolerant lines. Mg appears to ameliorate Al toxicity in the sensitive genotype by the dual mechanisms of (i) specifically increasing the expression level of several genes that are upregulated in the Al-treated, Al-tolerant genotype in the absence of Mg and (ii) possibly saving energy by decreasing expression of most genes relative to expression under Al stress. Mg-mediated reduction in gene expression also appears to be an important mechanism of Mg protection of the Al-tolerant genotype.
Segregation distortion and linkage analysis in eggplant (Solanum melongenaL.)
Authors: Barchi Lorenzo , Lanteri Sergio , Portis Ezio , Stàgel Anikò , Valè Giampiero , Toppino Laura , Rotino Giuseppe Leonardo
Published: October 2010

An anther-derived doubled haploid (DH) population and an F2mapping population were developed from an intraspecific hybrid between the eggplant breeding lines 305E40 and 67/3. The former incorporates an introgressed segment from Solanum aethiopicum Gilo Group carrying the gene Rfo-sa1, which confers resistance to Fusarium oxysporum ; the latter is a selection from an intraspecific cross involving two conventional eggplant varieties and lacks Rfo-sa1. Initially, 28 AFLP primer combinations (PCs) were applied to a sample of 93 F2individuals and 93 DH individuals, from which 170 polymorphic AFLP fragments were identified. In the DH population, the segregation of 117 of these AFLPs as well as markers closely linked to Rfo-sa1 was substantially distorted, while in the F2population, segregation distortion was restricted to just 10 markers, and thus the latter was chosen for map development. A set of 141 F2individuals was genotyped with 73 AFLP PCs (generating 406 informative markers), 32 SSRs, 4 tomato RFLPs, and 3 CAPS markers linked to Rfo-sa1. This resulted in the assignment of 348 markers to 12 major linkage groups. The framework map covered 718.7 cM, comprising 238 markers (212 AFLPs, 22 SSRs, 1 RFLP, and the Rfo-sa1 CAPS). Marker order and inter-marker distances in this eggplant map were largely consistent with those reported in a recently published SSR-based map. From an eggplant breeding perspective, DH populations produced by anther culture appear to be subject to massive segregation distortion and thus may not be very efficient in capturing the full range of genetic variation present in the parental lines.
Metabolic responses of upper-body accelerometer-controlled video games in adults
Authors: Stroud Leah C. , Amonette William E. , Dupler Terry L.
Published: October 2010

Historically, video games required little physical exertion, but new systems utilize handheld accelerometers that require upper-body movement. It is not fully understood if the metabolic workload while playing these games is sufficient to replace routine physical activity. The purpose of this study was to quantify metabolic workloads and estimate caloric expenditure while playing upper-body accelerometer-controlled and classic seated video games. Nineteen adults completed a peak oxygen consumption treadmill test followed by an experimental session where exercising metabolism and ventilation were measured while playing 3 video games: control (CON), low activity (LOW) and high activity (HI). Resting metabolic measures (REST) were also acquired. Caloric expenditure was estimated using the Weir equation. Mean oxygen consumption normalized to body weight for HI condition was greater than LOW, CON, and REST. Mean oxygen consumption normalized to body weight for LOW condition was also greater than CON and REST. Mean exercise intensities of oxygen consumption reserve for HI, LOW, and CON were 25.8% ± 5.1%, 6.4% ± 4.8%, and 0.8% ± 2.4%, respectively. Estimated caloric expenditure during the HI was significantly related to aerobic fitness, but not during other conditions. An active video game significantly elevated oxygen consumption and heart rate, but the increase was dependent on the type of game. The mean oxygen consumption reserve during the HI video game was below recommended international standards for moderate and vigorous activity. Although upper-body accelerometer-controlled video games provided a greater exercising stimulus than classic seated video games, these data suggest they should not replace routine moderate or vigorous exercise.
Aerobic activity before and following short-duration static stretching improves range of motion and performance vs. a traditional warm-up
Authors: Murphy Justin R. , Di Santo Mario C. , Alkanani Thamir , Behm David G.
Published: October 2010

Many activities necessitate a high degree of static joint range of motion (ROM) for an extended duration. The objective of this study was to examine whether ROM could be improved with a short duration and volume of static stretching within a warm-up, without negatively impacting performance. Ten male recreationally active participants completed 2 separate protocols to examine changes in ROM and performance, respectively, with different warm-ups. The warm-up conditions for the ROM protocol were static stretching (SS), consisting of 6 repetitions of 6 s stretches; 10 min of running prior to the SS (AS); and 5 min of running before and after the SS (ASA). The performance protocol included a control condition of 10 min of running. Measures for the ROM protocol included hip flexion ROM, passive leg extensor tension, and hamstring electromyographic (EMG) activity at pre-warm-up, and at 1, 10, 20, and 30 min post-warm-up. Performance measures included countermovement jump (CMJ) height, reaction time (RT), movement time (MT), and balance at pre-warm-up and at 1 and 10 min post-warm-up. The ASA produced greater ROM overall than the SS and AS conditions (p < 0.0001), persisting for 30 min. There were no significant alterations in passive muscle tension or EMG. For the performance protocol, there were no main effects for condition, but there was a main effect for time, with CMJ height being greater at 1 and 10 min post-warm-up (p = 0.0004). Balance ratios and MT improved at 10 min post-warm-up (p < 0.0001). Results indicate that the ASA method can provide ROM improvements for 30 min with either facilitation or no impairment in performance. This may be especially important for athletes who substitute later into a game with minimal time for a full warm-up.
A decreasedn-6/n-3 ratio in the fat-1 mouse is associated with improved glucose tolerance
Authors: Smith Brennan K. , Holloway Graham P. , Reza-Lopez Sandra , Jeram Stanley M. , Kang Jing X. , Ma David W.L.
Published: October 2010

A reduction in skeletal muscle fatty acid oxidation (FAO), manifested as a reduction in mitochondrial content and (or) FAO within mitochondria, may contribute to the development of insulin resistance. n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) have been observed to increase the capacity for FAO and improve insulin sensitivity. We used the fat-1 mouse model, a transgenic animal capable of synthesizing n-3 PUFA from n-6 PUFA, to examine this relationship. Fat-1 mice exhibited a ~20-fold decrease in the n-6/n-3 ratio in skeletal muscle, and plasma glucose and the area under the glucose curve were significantly (p < 0.05) lower in fat-1 mice during a glucose challenge test. The improvement in whole-body glucose tolerance in the fat-1 mouse was associated with a ~21% (p < 0.05) decrease in whole-muscle citrate synthase (CS) activity (in red muscle only), without alterations in CS activity of isolated mitochondria (either red or white muscle; p > 0.05). These data suggest that the fat-1 mouse has decreased skeletal muscle mitochondrial content. However, the intrinsic ability of mitochondria to oxidize fatty acids was not altered in the fat-1 mouse, as rates of palmitate oxidation in isolated mitochondria from both red and white muscle were unchanged. Overall, this study demonstrates that a decrease in the n-6/n-3 ratio can enhance glucose tolerance in healthy animals, independent of changes in mitochondrial content.
A global modeling approach to the hydraulic performance evaluation of a sewer network
Authors: Dion Yves , Bennis Saad
Published: October 2010

This paper presents an objective methodology for evaluating hydraulic sewer networks performance. Two methods of computing hydraulic performance index are presented. One method uses the nonlinear reservoir model to generate runoff hydrograph at outlets of each of the drainage basins at street section scale level. Dynamic wave equations are used for routing these hydrographs through the drainage network to obtain flow depth and level within pipes and manholes. The second method computes this index using a generalized rational hydrograph model applied to the entire upstream basin, aggregated as a single node. The hydraulic model uses a simple energy balance equation applied to each evaluated individual sewer. The case study compares these approaches by applying the methodology to small hypothetical and real networks. Slightly better results were obtained with the generalized rational method than with the nonlinear reservoir method. The generalized rational method was able to forecast measured discharges at the outlet of subcatchments with a level of accuracy acceptable to sewer network management and evaluation needs.
Effect of diallyldisulphide on an antioxidant enzyme system inCandidaspecies
Authors: Yousuf Snowber , Ahmad Aijaz , Khan Amber , Manzoor Nikhat , Khan Luqman Ahmad
Published: October 2010

This study was carried out to show the effect of diallyldisulphide (DADS), an important organosulphur compound found in garlic ( Allium sativum ), on antioxidant systems in Candida species. Changes in antioxidant metabolites and antioxidant activity in the presence of DADS were found in Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis . Candida cells were treated with sublethal concentrations of DADS. DADS caused a decrease in the activity of all antioxidant enzymes except catalase, resulting in oxidative stress and damaged cells. The amount of oxidative stress generated by DADS was found to be a function of its concentration. A significant decrease in superoxide dismutase, glutathione-S-transferase, and glutathione peroxidase activities but an increase in catalase activity were observed. Increased levels of lipid peroxidation and decreased levels of glutathione were observed in treated cells. Activity of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase decreased significantly following DADS treatment and could be correlated with a decrease in glutathione concentration in both Candida species. These results indicate that diallyl disulphide acts as a pro-oxidant to Candida species and hence may act as a potent antifungal in the management of candidiasis.
Effect of culture age, protectants, and initial cell concentration on viability of freeze-dried cells ofMetschnikowia pulcherrima
Authors: Spadaro Davide , Ciavorella Annalisa Alessandra , Lopez-Reyes Jorge Giovanny , Garibaldi Angelo , Gullino Maria Lodovica
Published: October 2010

The effect of freeze-drying using different lyoprotectants at different concentrations on the viability and biocontrol efficacy of Metschnikowia pulcherrima was evaluated. The effects of initial yeast cell concentration and culture age on viability were also considered. Yeast cells grown for 36 h were more resistant to freeze-drying than were 48 h cells. An initial concentration of 108cells·mL–1favoured the highest survival after freeze-drying. When maltose (25%, m/v) was used as protectant, a high cell viability was obtained (64.2%). Cells maintained a high viability after 6 months of storage at 4 °C. The biocontrol efficacy of freeze-dried cells was similar to the activity of fresh cells on ‘Gala’ apples and was slightly lower on ‘Golden Delicious’ apples. After optimizing freeze-drying conditions, the viability of M. pulcherrima cells was similar to that obtained in other studies. The results constitute a first step towards the commercial development of M. pulcherrima as a biocontrol agent.
Reversal of isoprenaline-induced cardiac remodeling by rutaecarpine via stimulation of calcitonin gene-related peptide production
Authors: Li Jian-Zhe , Peng Jun , Xiao Li , Zhang Yi-Shuai , Liao Mei-Chun , Li Xiao-Hui , Hu Chang-Ping , Deng Han-Wu , Li Yuan-Jian
Published: October 2010

Dysfunction of capsaicin-sensitive sensory nerves is involved in cardiac remodeling, and rutaecarpine has been shown to exert a beneficial effect on cardiac function through activating the sensory nerves. This study was conducted to explore the potential inhibitory effect of rutaecarpine on cardiac remodeling and the underlying mechanisms. A rat cardiac remodeling model was established by injection of isoprenaline (5 mg/kg per day, s.c.) for 10 days. Rutaecarpine (10 or 40 mg/kg, i.g.) was coadministrated with isoprenaline to evaluate the effect of rutaecarpine on cardiac remodeling. After echocardiographic analysis was performed, blood samples were collected to quantify calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), dorsal root ganglia were isolated for examining CGRP mRNA expression, and the hearts were weighed and saved for evaluating the parameters related to apoptosis and hypertrophy. Isoprenaline significantly increased the ratio of left ventricle weight to body weight, the cross-sectional area of cardiomyocytes, cardiac apoptosis, and collagen deposition concomitantly with decreased CGRP production, which were reversed by rutaecarpine treatment. The beneficial effects of rutaecarpine were attenuated by pretreatment with capsaicin, which selectively depleted CGRP. These results suggest that rutaecarpine was able to reverse isoprenaline-induced cardiac remodeling through stimulating CGRP production.
Retinol-deficient rats can convert a pharmacological dose of astaxanthin to retinol: antioxidant potential of astaxanthin, lutein, and β-carotene
Authors: Sangeetha R. K. , Baskaran V.
Published: October 2010

Retinol (ROH) and provitamin-A carotenoids are recommended to treat ROH deficiency. Xanthophyll carotenoids, being potent antioxidants, can modulate health disorders. We hypothesize that nonprovitamin-A carotenoids may yield ROH and suppress lipid peroxidation under ROH deficiency. This study aimed to (i) study the possible bioconversion of astaxanthin and lutein to ROH similar to β-carotene and (ii) determine the antioxidant potential of these carotenoids with reference to Na+/K+-ATPase, antioxidant molecules, and lipid peroxidation (Lpx) induced by ROH deficiency in rats. ROH deficiency was induced in rats (n = 5 per group) by feeding a diet devoid of ROH. Retinol-deficient (RD) rats were gavaged with astaxanthin, lutein, β-carotene, or peanut oil alone (RD group) for 7 days. Results show that the RD group had lowered plasma ROH levels (0.3 µmol/L), whereas ROH rose in astaxanthin and β-carotene groups (4.9 and 5.7 µmol/L, respectively), which was supported by enhanced (69% and 70%) intestinal β-carotene 15,15′-monooxygenase activity. Astaxanthin, lutein, and β-carotene lowered Lpx by 45%, 41%, and 40% (plasma), respectively, and 59%, 64%, and 60% (liver), respectively, compared with the RD group. Lowered Na+/K+-ATPase and enhanced superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione-S-transferase activities support the lowered Lpx. To conclude, this report confirms that astaxanthin is converted into β-carotene and ROH in ROH-deficient rats, and the antioxidant potential of carotenoids was in the order astaxanthin > lutein > β-carotene.
Restricted feeding improves postischemic recovery of Langendorff-perfused rat hearts
Authors: Jaitovich María M. , Varela Alicia , Sbarbati Cintia , Hermann Romina , Torresín María E. , Savino Enrique A. , Marina Prendes María G.
Published: October 2010

The goal of the present study was to assess the effects of a restricted feeding schedule (RFS) on postischemic contractile recovery in relation to triacylglycerol (TAG), glycogen, and ATP content. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) activity, reduced/oxidized glutathione ratio (GSH/GSSG), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels were also determined. Isolated rat hearts entrained to daily RFS (2 h food access starting at 1200) or fed ad libitum (FED) for 3 weeks were Langendorff-perfused (25 min ischemia, 30 min reperfusion) with Krebs–Ringer bicarbonate solution (10 mmol/L glucose). RFS improved the recovery of contractility and reduced creatine kinase (CK) release upon reperfusion. Further, at the end of reperfusion, RFS hearts exhibited increased G6PDH activity and repletion of tissue glycogen, TAG, and ATP that was not observed in the FED hearts. GSH/GSSG at the end of reperfusion fell to the same value in both nutritional states, and TBARS levels were higher in the RFS hearts. In conclusion, RFS improved postischemic functional recovery, which was accompanied by a reduction in CK release and a striking energy recovery. Although enhanced G6PDH activity was displayed, RFS was unable to reduce lipid peroxidation, supporting a clear dissociation between protection against mechanical dysfunction and CK release on the one hand and oxidative damage on the other.
The acute administration of either amiloride or captopril does not prevent endothelial dysfunction induced by ischemia and reperfusion in the human forearm vasculature
Authors: Luca Mary Clare , Liuni Andrew , DiFabio Jonathan , Gori Tommaso , Parker John D.
Published: October 2010

Animal studies have demonstrated the ability of both sodium–hydrogen exchange inhibitors and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors to reduce infarct size and preserve postischemic ventricular function following ischemia and reperfusion (IR) injury. Whether these interventions can also prevent IR-induced impairment of endothelial function in humans has not been investigated. We performed 2 separate double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover studies. In the first study, 10 healthy volunteers were randomized to receive oral amiloride (10 mg) or a placebo. In a separate study, another group of volunteers (n = 10) was randomized to receive oral captopril (50 mg) or a placebo. At the time of the peak hemodynamic effect of the drug (3 and 1.5 h after administration of amiloride and captopril, respectively), endothelium-dependent, flow-mediated dilatation of the radial artery was measured before and after IR. IR significantly blunted flow-mediated dilatation in all groups (placebo: pre-IR: 6.8% ± 0.7%; post-IR: 2.9% ± 0.9%; P < 0.01; amiloride: pre-IR: 5.9% ± 0.6%; post-IR: 2.1% ± 1.3%; P = 0.01; captopril: pre-IR: 6.0% ± 0.5%; post-IR: 2.0% ± 0.6%; P < 0.01). In humans, neither 10 mg of oral amiloride nor 50 mg of oral captopril was able to provide protection against IR-induced endothelial dysfunction in the peripheral vasculature.
Morphological and trophic differentiation of growth morphotypes of walleye (Sander vitreus) from Lake Winnipeg, Canada
Authors: Moles M. D. , Robinson B. W. , Johnston T. A. , Cunjak R. A. , Jardine T. D. , Casselman J. M. , Leggett W. C.
Published: October 2010

Ecologically related polymorphisms occur in many northern freshwater fish populations and are distinguished by alternate phenotypes consistently associated with differential use of habitats or resources. We tested for polymorphism in walleye (Sander vitreus (Mitchill, 1818)) in the south basin of Lake Winnipeg, where evidence suggests that “dwarf” and “normal” growth forms may coexist. Morphometric comparisons of these growth forms at similar size demonstrated significant differences in the relative sizes of head, snout, eye, and mouth, collectively suggesting dwarf individuals inhabit a more benthic niche than normal morphs. Stable isotope analysis did not support this morphometric interpretation, however, as δ13C and δ15N isotope signatures were similar between similar-sized individuals of both forms, but differed from those of large normal walleye. Walleye from Lake Winnipeg do not seem to exhibit a simple resource polymorphism where different ecotypes are associated with alternate habitats throughout their life history, nor do they exhibit characteristics of a simple mating polymorphism. We suggest the walleye from Lake Winnipeg represent two growth forms sharing a common juvenile habitat followed by the normal form shifting into an alternative adult niche.
Tissue–diet discrimination factors and turnover of stable carbon and nitrogen isotopes in white-footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus)
Authors: DeMots Rachel L. , Novak James M. , Gaines Karen F. , Gregor Aaron J. , Romanek Christopher S. , Soluk Daniel A.
Published: October 2010

Stable isotope analysis has become an increasingly valuable tool in investigating animal ecology. Here we document the turnover rates for carbon in the liver, muscle, and whole blood tissue, as well as the tissue–diet discrimination values for carbon and nitrogen isotopes in the liver, whole blood, muscle, and hair, of the white-footed mouse ( Peromyscus leucopus (Rafinesque, 1818)). A 168-day diet-switching experiment was conducted with a laboratory population of white-footed mice. The δ13C values for all tissues deviated less than 1‰ from those of the diet except for whole blood, which had a slightly higher tissue–diet discrimination factor of 1.8‰. All tissues were enriched in 15N by approximately 3‰ relative to the diet except for liver tissue, which was 4.5‰ higher than the dietary δ15N value. Turnover rates for tissues of white-footed mice were ranked liver > whole blood > muscle. The half-lives calculated for liver tissue differed significantly between the two diet switches performed in this experiment. We demonstrate that there is potential for variation in tissue–diet discrimination values and tissue turnover rates between even closely related species. These findings highlight the importance of determining species-specific estimates of these parameters prior to the use of stable isotope analysis in field investigations of animal ecology.
Crypsis influences escape decisions in the Round-tailed Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma modestum)
Authors: Cooper, William E. , Sherbrooke Wade C.
Published: October 2010

Flight initiation distance (predator–prey distance when escape begins) increases as predation risk increases. Prey should have longer flight initiation distance when their background, movement, or current posture reduces crypsis. Flight initiation distance of ectotherms may increase at lower body temperature to compensate for slower running speed. However, for cryptic prey, fleeing might increase the probability of being detected. The Round-tailed Horned Lizard ( Phrynosoma modestum Girard, 1852) is eucryptic and resembles small stones. We predicted that flight initiation distance by P. modestum is shorter among stones than on uniform sand. Because movement and upright posture disrupt crypsis, we predicted that flight initiation distance is greater after movement and when standing than when still and lying on the ground. As predicted, flight initiation distances were shorter on a rocky than sandy area, when lying flat than standing, and while immobile than after moving. We measured running speed and flight initiation distance to determine relationships among body temperature, speed, and escape decisions. Running speed and flight initiation distance were reduced at lower body temperature, suggesting that crypsis reinforced by immobility is more advantageous than longer flight initiation distance for cool, slow lizards. The lizards adjusted escape decisions to current effectiveness of crypsis and escape ability.
APPLICATION OF BRAIDING SEQUENCES, I: ON THE CHARACTERIZATION OF VASSILIEV AND POLYNOMIAL LINK INVARIANTS
Authors: STOIMENOW A.
Published: October 2010

We apply the concept of braiding sequences to extend the polynomial growth result for Vassiliev invariants to links, tangles and embedded graphs. It implies the non-existence of Vassiliev invariants that depend on any finite number of link polynomial coefficients, and allows to define two norms on the space of Vassiliev invariants. Then we show that (apart from well-known relations) the coefficients of the link polynomials are linearly independent.