bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and Characterization of Campylobacter jejuni Isolated from Pasture Flock Poultry
Authors: Hanning Irene , Biswas Debabrata , Herrera Paul , Roesler Mary , Ricke Steven C.
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  The growing interest in organic and natural foods warrants a greater need for information on the food safety of these products. In this study, samples were taken from 2 pasture flock farms (N= 178; feed, water, drag swabs, and insect traps), pasture flock retail carcasses (N= 48) and 1 pasture flock processing facility (N= 16) over a period of 8 mo. A total of 105 Campylobacter isolates were obtained from 53 (30%), 36 (75%), and 16 (100%) samples from the farms, retail carcasses, and processing facility, respectively. Of the 105 isolates collected, 65 were C. jejuni, 31 were C. coli, and 9 were other Campylobacter spp. Using PCR, the C. jejuni isolates were further analyzed for virulence genes involved in colonization and survival (flaA, flaC, cadF, dnaJ, racR, cbrR), invasion (virB11, ciaB, pldA), protection against harsh conditions (sodB, htrA, clpA), toxin production (cdtA, cdtB, cdtC), siderophore transport (ceuE), and ganglioside mimicry (wlaN). In addition, the short variable region of the flaA locus (flaA SVR) was sequenced to determine the genetic diversity of the C. jejuni isolates. The flaA SVR diversity indices increased along the farm to carcass continuum. PCR‐based analysis indicated a low prevalence of 5 genes involved in colonization (dnaJ, ciaB, pldA, racR, virB11). The results of this survey indicate that the prevalence of Campylobacter on organic retail carcasses is similar to prevalence reports of Campylobacter on conventional retail carcasses. However, the genetic diversity of the flaA SVR genotypes increased along the farm to carcass continuum that contrasted with conventional poultry studies.

Practical Application: Campylobacter jejuni is a leading cause of foodborne illness with poultry and poultry products being leading sources of infection. Free‐range and pasture flock chickens are becoming more popular; however, there is an inherent biosecurity risk that can increase the prevalence of foodborne pathogens in these flocks. This study aimed to determine sources and characterize C. jejuni isolated from pasture flocks.
CASE REPORT AND CLINICAL REVIEW: Unilateral facial myokymia in a dog with an intracranial meningioma
Authors: Holland CT , Holland JT , Rozmanec M
Published: September 2010

A 23‐month‐old castrated male Cavalier King Charles spaniel was evaluated because of a 6‐month history of unusual rippling/undulating movements of the right facial muscles that were continuous and persisted during sleep.

Neurological examination revealed narrowing of the right palpebral fissure and unilateral right‐sided facial myokymia that was characterised by myokymic, and to a lesser degree, neuromyotonic discharges on concentric needle electromyographic examination.

After persisting unchanged for almost 2.5 years from its onset, the facial myokymia gradually disappeared over a 6‐month period concomitant with the emergence of a persistent ipsilateral facial paralysis and head tilt. At 5 years and 9 months after the first examination, signs of ipsilateral lacrimal, pharyngeal and laryngeal dysfunction became evident and the dog was euthanased. Postmortem examination identified a malignant (WHO grade III) meningioma in the right cerebellopontomedullary angle that compressed the ventrolateral cranial medulla, effaced the jugular foramen and internal acoustic meatus and extended into the facial canal of the petrous temporal bone.

Novel findings were the unique observation of isolated unilateral facial myokymia preceding diagnosis of a meningioma affecting facial nerve function within the caudal cranial fossa and the remarkably long duration of neurological signs (75 months) attributable to the neoplasm.
Acetylcholine–Dopamine Interactions in the Pathophysiology and Treatment of CNS Disorders
Authors: Lester Deranda B , Rogers Tiffany D. , Blaha Charles D.
Published: September 2010

Dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta and ventral tegmental area of the midbrain form the nigrostriatal and mesocorticolimbic dopaminergic pathways that, respectively, project to dorsal and ventral striatum (including prefrontal cortex). These midbrain dopaminergic nuclei and their respective forebrain and cortical target areas are well established as serving a critical role in mediating voluntary motor control, as evidenced in Parkinson's disease, and incentive‐motivated behaviors and cognitive functions, as exhibited in drug addiction and schizophrenia, respectively. Although it cannot be disputed that excitatory and inhibitory amino acid‐based neurotransmitters, such as glutamate and GABA, play a vital role in modulating activity of midbrain dopaminergic neurons, recent evidence suggests that acetylcholine may be as important in regulating dopaminergic transmission. Midbrain dopaminergic cell tonic and phasic activity is closely dependent upon projections from hindbrain pedunculopontine and the laterodorsal tegmental nuclei, which comprises the only known cholinergic inputs to these neurons. In close coordination with glutamatergic and GABAergic activity, these excitatory cholinergic projections activate nicotinic and muscarinic acetylcholine receptors within the substantia nigra and ventral tegmental area to modulate dopamine transmission in the dorsal/ventral striatum and prefrontal cortex. Additionally, acetylcholine‐containing interneurons in the striatum also constitute an important neural substrate to provide further cholinergic modulation of forebrain striatal dopaminergic transmission. In this review, we examine neurological and psychopathological conditions associated with dysfunctions in the interaction of acetylcholine and dopamine and conventional and new pharmacological approaches to treat these disorders.
Cannabinoid–Dopamine Interaction in the Pathophysiology and Treatment of CNS Disorders
Authors: Fernández‐Ruiz Javier , Hernández Mariluz , Ramos José A.
Published: September 2010

Endocannabinoids and their receptors, mainly the CB1 receptor type, function as a retrograde signaling system in many synapses within the CNS, particularly in GABAergic and glutamatergic synapses. They also play a modulatory function on dopamine (DA) transmission, although CB1 receptors do not appear to be located in dopaminergic terminals, at least in the major brain regions receiving dopaminergic innervation, e.g., the caudate‐putamen and the nucleus accumbens/prefrontal cortex. Therefore, the effects of cannabinoids on DA transmission and DA‐related behaviors are generally indirect and exerted through the modulation of GABA and glutamate inputs received by dopaminergic neurons. Recent evidence suggest, however, that certain eicosanoid‐derived cannabinoids may directly activate TRPV1 receptors, which have been found in some dopaminergic pathways, thus allowing a direct regulation of DA function. Through this direct mechanism or through indirect mechanisms involving GABA or glutamate neurons, cannabinoids may interact with DA transmission in the CNS and this has an important influence in various DA‐related neurobiological processes (e.g., control of movement, motivation/reward) and, particularly, on different pathologies affecting these processes like basal ganglia disorders, schizophrenia, and drug addiction. The present review will address the current literature supporting these cannabinoid‐DA interactions, with emphasis in aspects dealing with the neurochemical, physiological, and pharmacological/therapeutic bases of these interactions.
Pseudomonas fluorescens BBc6R8 type III secretion mutants no longer promote ectomycorrhizal symbiosis
Authors: Cusano Angela M. , Burlinson Peter , Deveau Aurélie , Vion Patrice , Uroz Stéphane , Preston Gail M. , Frey‐Klett Pascale
Published: September 2010

The Mycorrhiza Helper Bacterium (MHB) Pseudomonas fluorescens BBc6R8 promotes the ectomycorrhizal symbiosis between Douglas fir roots and Laccaria bicolor. In this study, we identified a non‐flagellar type III secretion system (T3SS) in the draft genome of BBc6R8 similar to that described in the biocontrol strain P. fluorescens SBW25. We examined whether this T3SS plays a role in the BBc6R8 mycorrhizal helper effect by creating a deletion in the rscRST genes encoding the central channel of the injectisome. The in vitro effect of BBc6R8 T3SS mutants on the radial growth rate of L. bicolor was unchanged compared with the parental strain. In contrast, T3SS mutants were unable to promote mycorrhization, suggesting that type III secretion plays an important role in the mycorrhizal helper effect of P. fluorescens BBc6R8 independent of the promotion of hyphal growth that BBc6R8 exhibits in vitro.
Quantifying Ligament Cross-Sectional Area via Molding and Casting
Authors: Schmidt Kelly H. , Ledoux William R.
Published: September 2010

Ligament cross-sectional areas are difficult to determine because ligaments are soft tissues, can be very short, and may be deep between bones. However, accurate measurements are required for determining the material properties from mechanical testing. Many techniques have been tried, but most suffer from one or more of the following: tissue deformation, tissue destruction, submersion of the tissue in saline, the need for a clear line of site, the inability to detect concavities, or poorly defined cross-sectional perimeters. Molding techniques have been used but have been limited by material issues such as large shrinkages, the inability to capture small detail, or the need to destroy the mold to remove the ligament. In this study, we developed a suitable molding and casting technique without systematic shrinkage that could accurately capture the odd shapes and concavities of foot and ankle ligaments with small clearances between bones. Metal rods of 1.62 mm, 2.90 mm, 3.18 mm, and 9.43 mm in diameter were molded using a liquid silicone rubber and cast with polyurethane. The effect of cutting the mold for specimen removal was investigated, and similar tests were done in the presence of saline. Image analysis software was used to determine the cross-sectional areas from photographs of cut castings. In addition, four different ligaments (each n=5) were dissected, molded, and cast. The cross-sectional area of each ligament was obtained. The maximum difference in area for all cases was 2.00%, with the majority being less than 1.00%; the overall root mean square error was 0.334 mm2 or 0.97%. Neither cutting the mold for specimen removal nor the presence of saline affected the cross-sectional area of the castings. Various representative foot and ankle ligaments were also molded and cast to capture fine detail of the ligament midsubstance including concavities. We have developed a method of measuring ligament cross-sectional area that can overcome the limitations of other area measurement techniques, while accounting for the complicated anatomy of the bones of the foot. The method was validated using metal rods of known diameters, and a representative set foot ligaments (N=20) was analyzed.
Viscoelastic and Biomechanical Properties of Osteochondral Tissue Constructs Generated From Graded Polycaprolactone and Beta-Tricalcium Phosphate Composites
Authors: Erisken Cevat , Kalyon Dilhan M. , Wang Hongjun
Published: September 2010

The complex micro-/nanostructure of native cartilage-to-bone insertion exhibits gradations in extracellular matrix components, leading to variations in the viscoelastic and biomechanical properties along its thickness to allow for smooth transition of loads under physiological movements. Engineering a realistic tissue for osteochondral interface would, therefore, depend on the ability to develop scaffolds with properly graded physical and chemical properties to facilitate the mimicry of the complex elegance of native tissue. In this study, polycaprolactone nanofiber scaffolds with spatially controlled concentrations of β-tricalcium phosphate nanoparticles were fabricated using twin-screw extrusion-electrospinning process and seeded with MC3T3-E1 cells to form osteochondral tissue constructs. The objective of the study was to evaluate the linear viscoelastic and compressive properties of the native bovine osteochondral tissue and the tissue constructs formed in terms of their small-amplitude oscillatory shear, unconfined compression, and stress relaxation behavior. The native tissue, engineered tissue constructs, and unseeded scaffolds exhibited linear viscoelastic behavior for strain amplitudes less than 0.1%. Both native tissue and engineered tissue constructs demonstrated qualitatively similar gel-like behavior as determined using linear viscoelastic material functions. The normal stresses in compression determined at 10% strain for the unseeded scaffold, the tissue constructs cultured for four weeks, and the native tissue were 0.87±0.08 kPa, 3.59±0.34 kPa, and 210.80±8.93 kPa, respectively. Viscoelastic and biomechanical properties of the engineered tissue constructs were observed to increase with culture time reflecting the development of a tissuelike structure. These experimental findings suggest that viscoelastic material functions of the tissue constructs can provide valuable inputs for the stages of in vitro tissue development.
Monolayer structure of a liquid crystalline perylene derivative on bare and on thiol-terminated Au(111) surfaces
Authors: Wan A. S. , Kushto G. P. , Mäkinen A. J.
Published: September 2010

Monolayers of N,N-ditridecyl-3,4,9,10-perylenetetracarboxylic diimide (PTCDI-C13) deposited on flat, vicinal, and alkane thiol-terminated surfaces of Au(111) exhibit a number of different phases. By carefully analyzing the structure of each monolayer phase, the authors are able to elucidate the effects of natural templating, provided by Au surface reconstruction and by the geometric constrain of stepped Au surfaces, in determining the phase of the PTCDI-C13 monolayer. This highlights the utility of surface templating for supramolecular chemistry and molecular electronics.
200-mm-diameter neutral beam source based on inductively coupled plasma etcher and silicon etching
Authors: Kubota Tomohiro , Nukaga Osamu , Ueki Shinji , Sugiyama Masakazu , Inamoto Yoshimasa , Ohtake Hiroto , Samukawa Seiji
Published: September 2010

The authors developed a neutral beam source consisting of a 200-mm-diameter inductively coupled plasma etcher and a graphite neutralization aperture plate based on the design of a neutral beam source that Samukawa et al. [Jpn. J. Appl. Phys., Part 2 40, L779 (2001)] developed. They measured flux and energy of neutral particles, ions, and photons using a silicon wafer with a thermocouple and a Faraday cup and calculated the neutralization efficiency. An Ar neutral beam flux of more than 1 mA/cm2 in equivalent current density and a neutralization efficiency of more than 99% were obtained. The spatial uniformity of the neutral beam flux was within ±6% within a 100 mm diameter. Silicon etching using a F2-based neutral beam was done at an etch rate of about 47 nm/min, while Cl2-based neutral beam realized completely no undercut. The uniformity of etch rate was less than ±5% within the area. The etch rate increased by applying bias power to the neutralization aperture plate, which shows that accelerated neutral beam was successfully obtained. These results indicate that the neutral beam source is scalable, making it possible to obtain a large-diameter and uniform neutral beam, which is inevitable for application to mass production.
Inverse Stranski–Krastanov growth in InGaAs/InP
Authors: Sears L. , Riposan A. , Millunchick J. Mirecki
Published: September 2010

Thin films of InxGa1−xAs are observed to develop either islands or pits on the surface to relieve lattice mismatch strain after some critical thickness depending on the composition of the film. The composition is thought to alter either the surface energy or the equilibrium adatom concentration of the growing film, thus changing which strain relieving features, islands, or pits nucleate on the surface first. Once pits form, their behavior is similar to that of islanding, resulting in an “inverse” Stranski–Krastanov growth mode. Furthermore, the atomic surface structure near the pits is different than away from the pits and is correlated with island formation.
F and Cl detection limits in secondary ion mass spectrometry measurements of Si and SiO2 samples
Authors: Pivovarov A. L. , Guryanov G. M.
Published: September 2010

Usually, F and Cl negative secondary ion currents forming background signals determine detection limits for these elements in secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) measurements. Technique involving changing the primary-ion current was used to determine that the “memory effect” is the main source of the background signal for these elements. It is shown that energy distributions of F and Cl ions forming background signals are distinctly narrower than energy distributions of these ions reflecting element bulk concentration in a Si wafer. Using this fact, the F and Cl detection limits in Si were improved by energy filtering of secondary ions. For experimental conditions used, the filtering of the secondary ion energy in a region around 60–70 eV improves the F and Cl detection limits by a factor of more than 6. The effect of an electron beam used for charge neutralization of insulator samples in a negative SIMS mode on the F and Cl detection limits was also investigated. It is shown that the simultaneous use of the primary ion and electron beams causes a synergistic increase of the background signals. It was determined that both F and Cl detection limits for the SiO2 sample are almost the same as for the Si sample when the electron and ion beams are applied simultaneously. The possible mechanism of this effect is discussed.
Low temperature deposition of hydrogenated nanocrystalline SiC films by helicon wave plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Yu Wei , Lu Wanbing , Teng Xiaoyun , Ding Wenge , Han Li , Fu Guangsheng
Published: September 2010

Hydrogenated nanocrystalline silicon carbide (nc-SiC:H) films have been deposited by using helicon wave plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition technique at low substrate temperature. The influences of radio frequency (rf) power and substrate temperature on the properties of the deposited nc-SiC:H films were investigated. It is found that hydrogenated amorphous SiC films were fabricated at a low rf power, while the nc-SiC:H films with a microstructure of SiC nanocrystals embedded in amorphous counterpart could be deposited when the rf power is 400 W or more. The plasma transition from the capacitive dominated discharge to the helicon wave discharge with high plasma intensity influences the film microstructure and surface morphology. The analysis of the films deposited at various substrate temperatures reveals that the onset of SiC crystallization occurs at the substrate temperature as low as 150 °C. The low temperature deposition of nc-SiC:H films enables the fabrication of silicon-based thin-film solar cells onto flexible plastic substrates using nc-SiC:H film as a window layer.
Low energy Ar+ bombardment of GaN surfaces: A statistical study of ion reflection and sputtering
Authors: Despiau-Pujo Emilie , Chabert Pascal
Published: September 2010

Statistical molecular dynamics simulations are performed to analyze the sputtering of w-GaN (wurtzite) and z-GaN (zinc blende) surfaces under 100 eV Ar+ ion bombardment. Ion reflection and physical sputtering mechanisms are investigated as a function of the ion impact angle and the crystalline nature of samples. The probability of ion reflection is lower for the w-GaN phase and increases with the angle of incidence θi. As θi becomes more glancing, the reflected ions become more energetic and their angular distribution tends to narrow. The sputtering yields of w-GaN and z-GaN surfaces are maximum for θi=45°. For near-normal incidence, the probability of sputtering is smaller for the w-GaN phase, suggesting that the atomic arrangement in the pristine state modifies the characteristics of the momentum transfer occurring between the ion and the surface atoms during the collision cascade. Atomic nitrogen sputters preferentially and represents 87% to 100% of sputtered species due to its lower mass. These statistical results differ from the predictions of continuous ion bombardment simulations since the surfaces are not allowed to evolve self-consistently during the gathering of impact statistics.
A patient and relative centred evaluation of treatment escalation plans: a replacement for the do-not-resuscitate process
Authors: Obolensky L , Clark T , Matthew G , Mercer M
Published: September 2010

The Treatment Escalation Plan (TEP) was introduced into our trust in an attempt to improve patient involvement and experience of their treatment in hospital and to embrace and clarify a wider remit of treatment options than the Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order currently offers. Our experience suggests that the patient and family are rarely engaged in DNR discussions. This is acutely relevant considering that the Mental Capacity Act (MCA) now obliges these discussions to take place. The TEP is a form that the doctor completes, ideally with the competent patient or close relative, documenting what treatment options would be appropriate if that patient were to become acutely unwell. Ventilation of the lungs, cardiac resuscitation, renal replacement therapy, intravenous fluids and antibiotics are all discussed. The study evaluated patient and relative experiences with the TEP. 55 patients or their relatives were interviewed regarding their experience of the TEP and thoughts regarding the process. 96% of patients and relatives evaluated thought that the TEP was a good idea. Free text comments were all positive and only 34% of patients claimed to feel anxious when completing the form. Following this study, the TEP has been expanded hospital wide and into the community within our trust. Discussions are currently taking place in hospitals within our region to introduce the TEP form into other local trusts.
Otolith microchemistry as a stock identification tool for freshwater fishes: testing its limits in Lake Erie
Authors: Pangle Kevin L. , Ludsin Stuart A. , Fryer Brian J.
Published: September 2010

We evaluated otolith chemistry as a tool for identifying natal origins of potamodromous fishes using historical Lake Erie water chemistry (1983–2001) and yellow perch ( Perca flavescens ) otolith elemental composition (1994–1996) data. Lake Erie’s tributaries had stream-specific chemical signatures that were temporally stable. Correspondingly, the otolith microelemental composition of larvae collected from tributary embayments (Sandusky and Maumee bays) was shown to be geographically distinct and the use of known-origin juveniles showed that larval otolith microelemental signatures could be used to accurately identify natal origins and indicate fish movement. Discrimination between offshore spawning locations was relatively difficult, however, indicating limitations to working in systems that are dominated by flow from a single large river (i.e., Detroit River). Interannual variability in otolith microelemental signatures was high such that larvae from one year could not reliably classify natal location of larvae in another year. Development of an annual library of site-specific signatures and exploration of complementary ways to discriminate natal origins would improve the use of otolith microchemistry as a fishery management tool in freshwater systems.
Application of suction stress for estimating unsaturated shear strength of soils using direct shear testing under low confining pressure
Authors: Kim Byeong-Su , Shibuya Satoru , Park Seong-Wan , Kato Shoji
Published: September 2010

The primary objective of this study is to evaluate effects of suction on shear strength of unsaturated soils under low confining pressure and to examine the relationships between suction, shear strength behavior, and volumetric deformation using newly developed direct shear testing equipment for compacted weathered granite soils. The soil-water retention curves (SWRCs) of unsaturated soils were obtained under various overburden pressures. To analyze test results from the direct shear test under unsaturated conditions, a new method, suction stress–SWRC method (SSM), is proposed to determine the suction value for each overburden pressure and the suction stresses. As a result, it has been found that the stress states at the peak shear strength point are on the same failure line for the saturated state when the suction stress is treated as a component of confining pressure. The relationship between stress ratio and dilatancy for the saturated state can be extended to the unsaturated state. It is also noted that the estimated unsaturated shear strengths using the SSM agree well with the measured values from laboratory testing.
Synthesis and characterization of low-molecular-weight azo-acetoxystyrene and azo-naphthalene oligomers via stable free radical polymerization (SFRP)
Authors: Ali Dildar , Ahmed Zaheer , Kazmaier Peter M. , Buncel Erwin
Published: September 2010

As an approach toward controlled molecular architecture through stable free radical polymerization (SFRP), we have prepared a series of oligomers of controlled molecular weights (Mn) and low polydispersities (structures 2 and 3, with n values ranging from 2 to 52). Definitive evidence of structure was obtained through MALDI/MS (inter-peak interval of 162 m/z in azo-acetoxystyrene oligomers 2 and 260 m/z in azo-naphthalene oligomers 3, which correspond to the acetoxystyrene (AS) and naphthalenic (Np) repeating units, with corroborative evidence from NMR and GPC. Two synthetic pathways were explored. Pathway 1 yields azo-acetoxystyrene oligomer 2 via SFR addition of a TEMPO-capped unimer 1 to acetoxystyrene. Subsequent reactions would convert 2 into 3. In an alternative pathway 2, SFR addition of 1 to 4-(1-methoxynaphthyl)styrene gives azo-naphthalene oligomer 3 directly. Thus, the present reported methodology for controlled architecture has achieved synthesis of oligomers from low Mn (chlorobenzene, PhCl, solvent) to relatively high Mn (bulk), with incorporation of naphthyl (donor) and azobenzene (acceptor) moieties, as well as spacer moieties, in a controlled manner.
Carbon dynamics of aboveground live vegetation of boreal mixedwoods after wildfire and clear-cutting
Authors: Seedre Meelis , Chen Han Y.H.
Published: September 2010

Live vegetation carbon (C) pool dynamics are central to understanding C sequestration of forest ecosystems. Despite its importance, how aboveground live C pools change with stand development in boreal mixedwoods is poorly understood. We quantified aboveground live C pools (i.e., trees, >4 m in height; saplings and shrubs, 1.3–4 m in height; and understory plants, <1.3 m in height) in a postfire chronosequence ranging from 1 to 203 years and a postlogging chronosequence ranging from 1 to 27 years in the boreal mixedwoods of central Canada. The tree C pool of postfire stands increased from 0 to 109.2 Mg/ha from 1 to 92 years after fire and then declined to approximately 70 Mg/ha in 140- and 203-year-old stands. Carbon pools of saplings and shrubs and understory plants also changed with stand development and stand origin. Of the three age classes compared, postlogged stands had significantly higher vegetation C than postfire stands 1 and 27 years after disturbance, but there was no difference in 9-year-old stands. Higher values of live vegetation C in postlogged stands was attributed to live standing trees left after logging and silvicultural treatments that helped trees to establish during stand initiation.
Comparative physiological responses of Rhododendron groenlandicum and regenerating Picea mariana following partial canopy removal in northeastern Quebec, Canada
Authors: Hébert François , Thiffault Nelson , Ruel Jean-Claude , Munson Alison D.
Published: September 2010

In boreal black spruce ( Picea mariana (Mill.) BSP) dominated stands, careful logging around advance regeneration contributes to protect the shrub layer while increasing light availability. Therefore, it may promote expansion of bog Labrador tea ( Rhododendron groenlandicum (Oeder) Kron & Judd), which can impair black spruce growth by direct competition for nutrients and by alteration of soil biochemical conditions. Such harvesting approaches may not be suited for irregular, uneven-aged black spruce stands in the context of ecosystem-based management. Our objectives were to evaluate the effects of different intensities of partial harvest on critical resource availability and to compare the physiological and morphological responses of black spruce and Rhododendron to different intensities of partial harvest treatments. Two years after harvest, photosynthesis rate of black spruce was unchanged and was lower than that of Rhododendron, which was 63% higher after harvest. Nitrogen and water use efficiency were, respectively, 171% and 42% higher in Rhododendron than in black spruce after logging. Following harvest, black spruce physiology appeared to be regulated by the atmospheric humidity deficit, but for Rhododendron, physiology was regulated by light availability. The high plasticity of Rhododendron leaf traits could be indicative of the future advantage of this species in these stands following canopy removal associated with harvest.
The effects of small-scale disturbance on forest birds: a meta-analysis
Authors: Forsman Jukka T. , Reunanen Pasi , Jokimäki Jukka , Mönkkönen Mikko
Published: September 2010

Small-scale disturbance is a significant process in all major forest biomes. Some silvicultural practices, particularly group selection harvesting, intend to emulate natural small-scale disturbance by harvesting small clearcuts in the continuous forest. We conducted a meta-analysis on the effects of small-scale harvesting on North American breeding forest birds. We extracted species richness and relative abundance of several functional bird groups and guilds from published studies and compared them between gap-dominated and unlogged forest as a function of forest type and the size and age of the gap. The abundance of many bird groups was higher in the gap-dominated than in the continuous forest. Species preferring interior parts of the forest had the most negative association with the presence of gaps but this relationship was not statistically significant. Abundances of many bird groups increased with increasing gap size, while its effect on abundance of some bird groups disappeared quickly. Our review suggests that silvicultural practices that bring about small gaps do not negatively affect the abundances of most forest birds and often even enhance it. However, more studies are needed to examine optimal size and abundance of gaps in a forest and whether emulated small-scale disturbance effectively mimics natural processes.
STRATEGIC PLANNING OF FUTURE PRODUCTS WITH PRODUCT SCENARIOS
Authors: GRIENITZ VOLKER , BLUME VOLKER
Published: September 2010

Manufacturing based corporations often find themselves confronted with complexities of increased pressures to innovate in order to ensure their comparative market positions. In order to react to various exogenous changes corporations need to develop strategies that match their manufacturing resources as well as products with the markets requirements. Product scenarios represent a holistic approach for managing innovation processes and technologies efficiently. The analysis through evolutionary algorithms for compatibility between and amongst the product structure segments provides the necessary information about their suitability. The resulting scenarios, roadmaps and regular monitoring processes are prerequisite for the managerial decision making process and the implementation of product and technology strategies.
Role of EP4 receptor and prostaglandin transporter in prostaglandin E2-induced alteration in colonic epithelial barrier integrity
Authors: Lejeune Manigandan , Leung Pearl , Beck Paul L. , Chadee Kris
Published: September 2010

Prostaglandin E2(PGE2) is a proinflammatory lipid mediator produced in excess in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). PGE2couples to and signals via four different E-prostanoid (EP) receptors, namely EP1, EP2, EP3, and EP4. In this study, we determined a role for PGE2and EP4 receptors in altering colonic epithelial barrier integrity. In healthy colonic mucosa, EP4 receptors were localized on apical plasma membrane of epithelial cells at the tip of mucosal folds, whereas, in patients with IBD and in rats with dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis, they were diffusely overexpressed throughout the mucosa. Similarly, expression of EP4 receptor was polarized in T84 colonic epithelial monolayer and mimics the normal epithelium. Apical exposure of T84 monolayer with high levels of PGE2decreased barrier integrity, which was abrogated by an EP4 receptor antagonist. To reveal the mechanism of vectorial transport of basally produced PGE2toward apical EP4 receptors, we identified prostaglandin transporters (PGT) in human colonic epithelia. PGT were least expressed on epithelial cells at the colonic mucosal folds of control subjects but overexpressed in epithelial cells of patients with IBD or animals with DSS-induced colitis. T84 monolayer also expressed PGT, which increased twofold following stimulation with TNF-α. Importantly, in T84 monolayer stimulated with TNF-α, there was a corresponding increase in the uptake and vectorial transport of3H-PGE2to the apical surface. Knockdown or pharmacological inhibition of PGT significantly decreased vectorial transport of3H-PGE2. These studies unravel a mechanism whereby EP4 receptor and PGT play a role in PGE2-induced alteration of epithelial barrier integrity in colitis.
Concomitant ventilatory and circulatory functions of the diaphragm and abdominal muscles
Authors: Aliverti Andrea , Uva Barbara , Laviola Marianna , Bovio Dario , Mauro Antonella Lo , Tarperi Cantor , Colombo Edoardo , Loomas Bryan , Pedotti Antonio , Similowski Thomas , Macklem Peter T.
Published: September 2010

Expulsive maneuvers (EMs) caused by simultaneous contraction of diaphragm and abdominal muscles shift substantial quantities of blood from the splanchnic circulation to the extremities. This suggests that the diaphragm assisted by abdominal muscles might accomplish ventilation and circulation simultaneously by repeated EMs. We tested this hypothesis in normal subjects by measuring changes (Δ) in body volume (Vb) by whole body plethysmography simultaneously with changes in trunk volume (Vtr) by optoelectronic plethysmography, which measures the same parameters as whole body plethysmography plus the volume of blood shifts (Vbs) between trunk and extremities: Vbs = ΔVtr − ΔVb. We also measured abdominal pressure, pleural pressure, the arterial pressure wave, and cardiac output (Q̇c). EMs with abdominal pressure ∼100 cmH2O for 1 s, followed by 2-s relaxations, repeated over 90 s, produced a “stroke volume” from the splanchnic bed of 0.35 ± 0.07 (SD) liter, an output of 6.84 ± 0.75 l/min compared with a resting Q̇c of 5.59 ± 1.14 l/min. Refilling during relaxation was complete, and the splanchnic bed did not progressively empty. Diastolic pressure increased by 25 mmHg during each EM. Between EMs, Q̇c increased to 7.09 ± 1.14 l/min due to increased stroke volume and heart rate. The circulatory function of the diaphragm assisted by simultaneous contractions of abdominal muscles with appropriate pressure and duration at 20 min−1can produce a circulatory output as great as resting Q̇c, as well as ventilation. These combined functions of the diaphragm have potential for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The abdominal circulatory pump can act as an auxiliary heart.
History of the Ductus Arteriosus: 2. Persisting Patency in the Preterm Infant
Authors: Obladen Michael
Published: September 2010

By 1769, it was known to Morgagni that the ductus arteriosus may persist until adulthood. In 1835, Jörg linked delayed postnatal closure with disturbed respiration, a discovery that was afterwards forgotten for a century. When blood gas analysis became available, the association between persisting patency and diminished oxygenation resurfaced. When it became known that prostaglandins played a role in maintaining ductal patency, the development of pharmacologic intervention with cyclooxygenase inhibitors immediately followed. This rapid progress was due to the interaction between basic science, pediatric cardiology, and neonatology disciplines at the Cardiovascular Research Institute in San Francisco, coordinated by Julius Comroe, as well as President Kennedy’s foundation of the National Institute of Child Health and Development. This series of events exemplifies how clinical research became an integrated managed multidisciplinary endeavor in the 20th century.
Tumor Risk in Disorders of Sex Development
Authors: Pleskacova J. , Hersmus R. , Oosterhuis J.W. , Setyawati B.A. , Faradz S.M. , Cools M. , Wolffenbuttel K.P. , Lebl J. , Drop S.L. , Looijenga L.H.
Published: September 2010

Certain patients with disorders of sex development (DSD), who bear Y chromosome material in their karyotype, are at increased risk for the development of type II germ cell tumors (GCT), which arise from early fetal germ cells. DSD gonads frequently harbor immature germ cells which express early fetal germ cell markers. Some of them (e.g. OCT3/4 and NANOG) seem to be of pathogenetic relevance in GCT development providing cells with the ability of pluripotency, proliferation and apoptosis suppression. Also TSPY (testis-specific protein Y-encoded), the main candidate for the so-called gonadoblastoma locus on Y chromosome, is overexpressed in germ cells of DSD patients and possibly contributes to their survival and proliferation. Nowadays, the use of immunohistochemical methods is highly relevant in identifying DSD gonads at risk. The risk for GCT development varies. While the prevalence of GCT is 15% in patients with partial androgen insensitivity, it may reach more than 30% in patients with gonadal dysgenesis. Patients with complete androgen insensitivity and ovotesticular DSD develop malignancies in 0.8% and 2.6% of cases, respectively. However, these data may be biased for various reasons. To better estimate the risk in individual groups of DSD, further investigations on large patient series are needed.
Quantitative mRNA Analysis of Serotonin 5-HT4 and Adrenergic β2 Receptors in the Mouse Embryonic Telencephalon
Authors: Hernandez Melissa C. , Janušonis Skirmantas
Published: September 2010

The adrenergic β2 receptor (β2-AR) gene is embedded (nested) within the serotonin 5-HT4 receptor (5-HT4-R) gene and these two receptors can interact at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. The mouse 5-HT4-R gene contains a number of exons and codes at least four mRNA splice variants (5-HT4(a)-R, 5-HT4(b)-R, 5-HT4(e)-R, 5-HT4(f)-R), whereas the β2-AR gene is intronless. Since 5-HT4-Rs and β2-ARs can form homodimers and heterodimers and they increase intracellular cAMP levels, these receptors may be important for integrating serotonergic and noradrenergic signals at the single-neuron level. Both 5-HT4-R and β2-AR have been implicated in autism spectrum disorders, depression, and Alzheimer’s disease. In the fetal brain, these receptors may mediate the effects of stress on neurodevelopmental processes. We used quantitative reverse-transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) to investigate the developmental expression of 5-HT4-R and β2-AR in the mouse telencephalon at embryonic days (E) 13–18. At E13–E14, the mRNA levels of all 5-HT4-R splice variants were very low, but by E17–E18 they increased 7-fold (5- HT4(a)-R), 5-fold (5-HT4(b)-R), 9-fold (5-HT4(e)-R), and 11-fold (5-HT4(f)-R). The expression of 5-HT4(a)-R and 5-HT4(b)-R was rapidly upregulated between E14 and E15, at the time when the thalamocortical projections arrive in the telencephalon. This pattern was not observed in the expression of 5-HT4(e)-R and 5-HT4(f)-R, the mRNA levels of which showed a steady, gradual increase from E13 to E18. The β2-AR mRNA levels were relatively high throughout the studied period of development and increased only by 70% from E13–E14 to E17–E18. These findings suggest that 5-HT4-R splice variants and β2-ARs are differentially regulated in the embryonic telencephalon and that their relative amounts may carry developmentally important information.
Copy Number Variants in Premature Ovarian Failure and Ovarian Dysgenesis
Authors: Ledig S. , Röpke A. , Wieacker P.
Published: September 2010

Premature ovarian failure (POF) is a heterogeneous group of disorders with amenorrhea and high serum gonadotropins in women of less than 40 years. Ovarian dysgenesis (OD) which is characterised by the loss of follicles before puberty describes the most severe POF outcome. Although a multitude of different factors including non-genetic as well as genetic causes are known to play a role in the development of POF and OD, the underlying etiology remains unsolved in the majority of cases. In the last years, array-CGH was found to be a very useful tool in the identification of candidate genes in different conditions. Therefore, we performed array-CGH analysis by using high-resolution Agilent oligonucleotide arrays in a total of 74 POF and OD patients and identified 44 private losses and gains potentially causative for POF. It is striking to note that a lot of the genes involved in these rearrangements can be classified in (i) genes involved in meiosis (e.g. PLCB1, RB1CC1, MAP4K4), (ii) genes involved in DNA repair (e.g. RBBP8) and (iii) genes involved in folliculogenesis or male fertility in homologs of model organisms (e.g. IMMP2L, FER1L6, MEIG1).
Bone Health in Disorders of Sex Differentiation
Authors: Bertelloni S. , Baroncelli G.I. , Mora S.
Published: September 2010

Sex steroids are main regulators of skeletal growth, maturation and mass in both men and women. People with disorders of sex development (DSD) may experience problems in developing normal bone growth, structure and mass, because abnormal sex steroid secretion or action may be operative. In complete androgen insensitivity syndrome several reports documented reduced bone mineral density (BMD). Reduced BMD is evident in patients with not removed or removed gonads, but it is poorer in the latter, mainly when compliance with estrogen replacement therapy is not guaranteed. Large impairment of BMD does not seem to be present in patients with partial androgen insensitivity syndrome or 5α-reductase-2 deficiency, providing that gonads are not removed or that substitutive therapy is optimized. In congenital adrenal hyperplasia, BMD may be impaired as a result of not optimal glucocorticoid administration. In Turner syndrome, impaired BMD may result from the combined actions of estrogen deficiency, low bone dimensions, altered bone geometry, deficient cortical bone, and trabecular bone loss. Optimal estrogen administration seems to be important in preserving bone mass and enhancing trabecular bone volume. On the whole, bone health represents a main clinical issue for the management of persons with disorders of sex differentiation, and well designed longitudinal studies should be developed to improve their bone health and well-being.
M1 Protein-Dependent Intracellular Trafficking Promotes Persistence and Replication of Streptococcus pyogenes in Macrophages
Authors: Hertzén Erika , Johansson Linda , Wallin Robert , Schmidt Heike , Kroll Mirko , Rehn Anders P. , Kotb Malak , Mörgelin Matthias , Norrby-Teglund Anna
Published: September 2010

Streptococcus pyogenes is an important human pathogen that causes a variety of diseases including life-threatening invasive diseases, such as toxic shock and deep tissue infections. Although S. pyogenes are classically considered extracellular pathogens, a clinical significance of an intracellular source has been emphasized. In patients with deep tissue infections, an intracellular reservoir of S. pyogenes within macrophages was shown to contribute to prolonged bacterial persistence. Here we demonstrate that intracellular survival of S. pyogenes in macrophages is associated with an M1 protein-dependent intracellular trafficking in the phagosomal-lysosomal pathway, which results in impaired fusion with lysosomes. The phagocytic vacuoles harbouring M1 protein-expressing bacteria not only served as a safe haven for the bacteria, but also as a replicating niche. An M1 protein-dependent modulation of macrophages was further supported by differences in NF-ĸB signalling between cells infected with either the wild-type or M1 protein-deficient strains, thereby indicating a suppressed inflammatory response when M1 protein was involved. Evidence of egress of bacteria out of their host cell and subsequent re-infection of new cells emphasize the importance of intracellular bacteria as a reservoir for dissemination of infection and continued tissue injury.
Parameters Governing Invasive Disease Propensity of Non-M1 Serotype Group A Streptococci
Authors: Maamary Peter G. , Sanderson-Smith Martina L. , Aziz Ramy K. , Hollands Andrew , Cole Jason N. , McKay Fiona C. , McArthur Jason D. , Kirk Joshua K. , Cork Amanda J. , Keefe Rachael J. , Kansal Rita G. , Sun Hongmin , Taylor William L. , Chhatwal Gursharan S. , Ginsburg David , Nizet Victor , Kotb Malak , Walker Mark J.
Published: September 2010

Group A Streptococcus (GAS) causes rare but life-threatening syndromes of necrotizing fasciitis and toxic shock-like syndrome in humans. The GAS serotype M1T1 clone has globally disseminated, and mutations in the control of virulence regulatory sensor kinase (covRS) operon correlate with severe invasive disease. Here, a cohort of non-M1 GAS was screened to determine whether mutation in covRS triggers systemic dissemination in divergent M serotypes. A GAS disease model defining parameters governing invasive propensity of differing M types is proposed. The vast majority of GAS infection is benign. Nonetheless, many divergent M types possess limited capacity to cause invasive infection. M1T1 GAS readily switch to a covRS mutant form that is neutrophil resistant and frequently associated with systemic infection. Whilst non-M1 GAS are shown in this study to less frequently accumulate covRS mutations in vivo, such mutants are isolated from invasive infections and exhibit neutrophil resistance and enhanced virulence. The reduced capacity of non-M1 GAS to switch to the hypervirulent covRS mutant form provides an explanation for the comparatively less frequent isolation of non-M1 serotypes from invasive human infections.
The Neurodevelopment of Empathy in Humans
Authors: Decety Jean
Published: September 2010

Empathy, which implies a shared interpersonal experience, is implicated in many aspects of social cognition, notably prosocial behavior, morality and the regulation of aggression. The purpose of this paper is to critically examine the current knowledge in developmental and affective neuroscience with an emphasis on the perception of pain in others. It will be argued that human empathy involves several components: affective arousal, emotion understanding and emotion regulation, each with different developmental trajectories. These components are implemented by a complex network of distributed, often recursively connected, interacting neural regions including the superior temporal sulcus, insula, medial and orbitofrontal cortices, amygdala and anterior cingulate cortex, as well as autonomic and neuroendocrine processes implicated in social behaviors and emotional states. Decomposing the construct of empathy into subcomponents that operate in conjunction in the healthy brain and examining their developmental trajectory provides added value to our current approaches to understanding human development. It can also benefit our understanding of both typical and atypical development.