bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ataxic mutant mice with defects in Ca2+ channel α1A subunit gene: morphological and functional abnormalities in cerebellar cortical neurons
Authors: Sawada Kazuhiko , Haga Hiromi , Fukui Yoshihiro
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT This review summarizes recent studies in the morphological and functional abnormalities of cerebella in three ataxic mutant mice, i.e. tottering mouse, leaner mouse, and rolling mouse Nagoya (RMN). These mutants carry mutations in the Ca2+ channel α1A subunit gene, and become useful models for human neurological diseases such as episodic ataxia type‐2, familial hemiplegic migraine, and spinocerebellar ataxia type‐6. All three mutants exhibited altered morphology of the Purkinje cells, ectopic synaptic contacts between granule cell axons (parallel fibers) and Purkinje cell dendritic spines and abnormal expression of tyrosine hydroxylase in Purkinje cells. In leaner mice, Purkinje cell loss was observed in alternating sagittal compartments of the cerebellar cortex corresponding to the Zebrin II‐negative zones. The mutated Ca2+ channel α1A subunit was highly expressed in granule and Purkinje cells, and the P‐type Ca2+ currents in Purkinje cells were selectively reduced in the mutant mice. Therefore, we concluded that altered Ca2+ currents through the mutated Ca2+ channel α1A subunit might be involved in the functional and morphological abnormalities in granule and Purkinje cells, and might result in expressions of behavioral phenotypes including ataxia. Increased levels of corticotropin‐releasing factor and cholecystokinin in some climbing and mossy fibers were observed in RMN. These neuropeptides modulated the excitability of granule and Purkinje cells, indicating the possible expression of ataxic symptoms.
The effects of prenatal exposure to ethinyl estradiol and bisphenol‐A on the developing brain, reproductive organ and behavior of mouse
Authors: Sato Masuko , Shimada Morimi , Sato Yoshinobu
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT  This study investigated the effects of ethinyl estradiol (EE) and bisphenol‐A (BPA) on the maturation of fetuses, reproductive organ, brain development, and behavior. Twenty‐eight Jcl‐ICR pregnant mice were divided into 0.2 mg/kg of EE, 0.02 mg/kg of EE, BPA and control groups. Pregnant mice belonging to 0.2 mg/kg of EE and 0.02 mg/kg of EE group were daily injected subcutaneously either 0.2 mg/kg or 0.02 mg/kg of EE dissolved in olive oil from 11 to 19 days of gestation. The BPA group received an injection of 100 mg/kg of BPA dissolved in olive oil while the control group received an injection of olive oil alone subcutaneously on the same days of gestation. Neurological and behavioral development was examined by means of the sensorimotor reflexes until day 10 and openfield test on day 40 after birth. Myelination of the brain and maturation of testis were histologically examined. Obtained results were: 1) Pregnant mice in the 0.2 mg/kg EE group had no live births. 2) The mean litter size in the 0.02 mg/kg EE group was smaller than that in the BPA and control groups. The mean body weight at birth and that at the age of 60 days showed no significant differences among groups. 3) In the openfield test at the age of 40 days, the mean number of grooming and line‐crossing in the inner field in the 0.02 mg/kg EE group were significantly higher than those in the control group and the mean number of grooming, rearing and line‐crossing in the outer field in 0.02 mg/kg EE group were significantly higher than those in the BPA group. The mean numbers of defecation in both 0.02 mg/kg EE group and BPA group were less than those in the control group. 4) The mean diameter of seminiferous tubules and number of spermatocytes layers in the 0.02 mg/kg EE group and BPA were significantly less than those in the control group. 5) The mean diameter of tractus mamillothalamics in the 0.02mg/kg EE group and BPA group showed no significant differences compared with that in the control group. These findings suggested that prenatal exposure to EE or BPA adversely affects litter size, openfield behavior and spermatogenesis.
Prenatal developmental toxicity studies of 1,1,1‐trichloro‐2,2‐bis(4‐chlorophenyl)ethane (p, p‘‐DDT) in rats and rabbits
Authors: Takahashi Ken L. , Aoyama Hiroaki , Hojo Hitoshi , Shimizu Naoko , Kikuta Masayuki , Kushida Hiromi , Kawakatsu Hisao , Ebino Koichi , Teramoto Shoji
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT  The studies were conducted in rats and rabbits to elucidate the potential developmental toxicity of p, p'‐DDT in general accordance with the improved Japanese MAFF guidelines (12‐Nousan‐No. 8147,2–1–18, 2000). p, p'‐DDT suspended in 1% aqueous solution of CMC was administered orally to pregnant Jcl:SD rats on gestational days (GD) 6–19 at a dose of 0,5, 25, or 100 mg/kg/day and to pregnant KbI: JW rabbits on GD 6–27 at a dose of 0,5,20, or 80 mg/kg/day. Maternal animals were killed on the day after the last day of administration for morphological examination of their fetuses with special attention to the reproductive organs.

Adverse effects on maternal animals were found only at the highest dose in both species; i.e., clonic convulsion (2/24 in rats, 5/22 in rabbits), mortality (1/24 in rats), abortion or premature delivery (4/22 in rabbits), and reduced body weight gains and food consumption. However, the control and treated groups showed comparable values for the numbers of corpora lutea and implants, percent preimplantation losses, number of live fetuses, percent resorptions and fetal deaths, sex ratio, fetal body weights, and placental weights in both species, and anogenital distance and testicular histology in rats. Although fetal examination revealed slightly increased incidence of 27 presacral vertebrae in the highest dose group in rats, there was no treatment‐related increase in the incidence of malformations in any of the species.

Based on these results, it is concluded that p, p'‐DDT causes no malformations, including male reproductive organ abnormalities, in either rats or rabbits, although it results in an increased incidence of skeletal variations in rats at a maternally toxic dose.
The cause and prevention of human birth defects: What have we learned in the past 50 years?
Authors: Brent Robert L.
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT This review article dealig with the subject of “The Cause and Prevention of Human Birth Defects” was prepared in celebration of the 40th anniversary of the Japanese Teratology Society. It begins with recollections of some of the important contributions of Japanese scientists in the fields of teratology and embryology and a summary of the many scientific and medical accomplishments of the past 50 years in the fields of teratology, genetics, developmental biology, epidemiology and genetics. The review includes a summary of the drugs, chemicals and physical agents that have been documented to result in congenital malformations and reproductive effects when pregnant women are exposed during pregnancy. The principles of teratology were also summarized and emphasize that 1) no teratogenic agent can be described qualitatively as a teratogen, since a teratogenic exposure must include not only the agent, but also the dose and the time in pregnancy when the exposure occurs. 2) Even agents that have been demonstrated to result in malformatins cannot produce every type of malformation. 3) Known teratogens can be presumptively identified by the spectrum of malformations they produce. 4) It is easier to exclude an agent as a cause of birth defects than to definitively conclude that it was responsible for birth defects. 5) When evaluating the risk of exposures, the dose is a crucial component in determining the risk. 6) Teratogenic agents follow a toxicological dose response curve. This means that each teratogen has a threshold dose, below which, there is no risk of teratogenensis, no matter when in pregnancy the exposure occurred. 7) The evaluation of a child with congenital malformations connot be adequately performed unless it is approached with the same scholarship and detail, as is any other complicated medical problem. 8) Each physician must recognize the consequences of providing erroneous reproductive risks to pregnant women exposed to drugs and chemicals during pregnancy or alleging that a child's malformations are due to an environmental agent without performing a complete and scholarly evaluation.
Prehistory of the Japanese Teratology Society: The pioneers of teratology in Japan and the founders of the Society
Authors: Kameyama Yoshiro
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT The significant achievements of teratological research in Japan were traced from the beginning of the 20th century to the foundation of Japanese Teratology Society (JTS) in 1961 as a bird's‐eye view of the prehistory of JTS. The activities of the leaders of foresight who contributed to establish the JTS and to consolidate its basis for future growth were introduced in chronological order; Japanese pioneers before 1945, early developing stage of research (1948–1954), study groups furnishing the basis of JTS (1955–1961), and the final step for JTS establishment (1960–1961).

Teratological research in Japan was initiated independent of foreign studies and had obtained original findings before World War II. The studies in Japan progressed with their main target the prevention of exogeneous malformations as a feasible approach from the standpoint of practical medicine. Accordingly, a close collaboration between experimental and clinical teratologists, one of the grand traditions of JTS, was in place even before the early stages of JTS foundation.
The First U.S.‐Japan Teratology Seminar, 1965
Authors: Miller Robert W.
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT A U.S.‐Japan Seminar on was held in Tokyo on November 1–5, 1965 on “Epidemiological Studies into the Etiology of Congenital Malformations and Cancer.” It was convened by Dr. Hideo Nishimura of Kyoto University and Dr. Robert W. Miller of the National Cancer Institute (NCI). The main purposes were to introduce teratologists from the two countries to one another and to seek new areas of research. Among the assets for research in Japan were 1) Dr. Nishimura's collection of embryos for studies of normal intrauterine growth and for studies of congenital malformations among spontaneous miscarriages; 2) the availability of standard occupational records for information related to reproductive performance; 3) the family registry (koseki), useful for follow‐up studies, vital events and evidence of consanguinity; 4) the Metropolitan Tokyo Children's Cancer Registry which soon after was extended to 5 more metropolitan areas; 5) the annual publication of autopsy summaries; 6) data from the (U.S.‐Japan) Atomic Bomb Casualty Commission in Hiroshima and Nagasaki; 6) death‐certificate diagnoses for migrants from Japan to the U.S. among whom studies of changes in cancer rates had been initiated at the NCI. Also in Japan 7% of marital partners were second‐cousins or closer, of interest in studying genetic effects on the occurrence of cancer or congenital malformations. The seminar was followed by a workshop on methods in teratology held in Kyoto in 1968. These meetings led to progressive increases in the exchange of scientists and information.
Toward the prevention of human birth defects: a personal perspective
Authors: Shiota Kohei
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT Twenty years ago, the late Professor Hideo Nishimura identified some unsolved problems in teratology. His prediction concerning the future advances in this research area has in part become a reality by the year of 2001, but some difficult problems have still to be solved. We neither understand the causes and initiating mechanisms of a vast majority of birth defects nor have measures that can effectively prevent the birth of malformed babies. With the remarkable advances in molecular biology, the tune has come when we have the ability to elucidate the mechanisms of abnormal development and identify procedures to prevent human birth defects.
Radiological protection for diagnostic examination of pregnant women
Authors: Kusama Tomoko , Ota Katumasa
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT  Application of diagnostic X‐ray examination to pregnant women is complicated since risks to both mother and embryo/fetus must be considered. Embryos and fetuses are more sensitive to radiation than adults or children. The threshold doses for fetal death, malformations and mental retardation which are deterministic effects, are reported to be 100–200 mGy or higher. The relative risk for childhood cancer due to radiation at an absorbed dose of 10 mGy during embryonic/fetal development has been estimated at 1.4. However, the absorbed dose of the embryo/fetus during X‐ray diagnostic examination in which the X‐ray beam does not irradiate the embryo/fetus directly such as maternal skull and chest X‐ray is extremely low, less than 0.01 mGy. Thus these diagnostic procedures are not a problem from the perspective of radiological protection of the embryo/fetus. However, for pelvic CT scan and barium enema in which the uterus is directly within the X‐ray beam, the absorbed doses to the embryo/fetus are about 20–80 mGy and 10–20 mGy, respectively. Therefore, medical staff must pay careful attention to the embryo/fetus in application of these examinations. Pregnant women who were not aware of pregnancy at the time of their diagnostic exposure have great anxiety about radiation from such X‐ray examinations. However, fetal doses below 100 mGy should not be considered a reason for terminating a pregnancy.
Chromosome analysis of blastocysts cultured under the diabetic condition
Authors: Tatewaki Reiko , Kagohashi Yukiko , Furuse Kosuke , Otani Hiroki
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT  Chromosomes of Slc:ICR mouse blastocysts cultured under the diabetic condition were analyzed to clarify the effect of glucose and ketone body (DL‐β‐hydroxybutyric acid). In the group exposed to glucose plus ketone body or glucose alone, blastocysts showed higher incidences of chromosome abnormalities, especially numerical abnormalities such as aneuploidy and polyploidy, than in the control group (p < 0.01). The association of nucleolus organizing regions was increased in the blastocysts exposed to glucose plus ketone body, which seems to be related to the increase in numerical abnormalities. Structural abnormalities such as break and fragment were also observed, but there was no significant difference between the diabetic and nondiabetic conditions.

These results from chromosome analysis of the cultured blastocysts suggest that the diabetic condition may directly cause chromosome abnormalities in early embryos, especially aneuploidies, and may thus induce duplications or deletions of genes. These chromosomal damages may disrupt the developmental programs for organogenesis and may be involved in diabetes‐induced teratogenesis.
Developmental toxicity of estrogenic chemicals on rodents and other species
Authors: Iguchi Taisen , Watanabe Hajime , Katsu Yoshinao , Mizutani Takeshi , Miyagawa Shinichi , Suzuki Atsuko , Kohno Satomi , Sone Kiyoaki , Kato Hideo
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT  Antenatal sex‐hormone exposure induces lesions in mouse reproductive organs, which are similar to those in humans exposed in utero to a synthetic estrogen, diethylstilbestrol. The developing organisms including rodents, fish and amphibians are particularly sensitive to exposure to estrogenic chemicals during a critical window. Exposure to estrogens during the critical period induces long‐term changes in reproductive as well as non‐reproductive organs, including persistent molecular alterations. The antenatal mouse model can be utilized as an indicator of possible long‐term consequences of exposure to exogenous estrogenic compounds including possible environmental endocrine disrupters. Many chemicals released into the environment potentially disrupt the endocrine system in wildlife and humans, some of which exhibit estrogenic activity by binding to the estrogen receptors. Estrogen responsive genes, therefore, need to be identified to understand the molecular basis of estrogenic actions. In order to understand molecular mechanisms of estrogenic chemicals on developing organisms, we are identifying estrogen responsive genes using cDNA microarray, quantitative RT‐PCR, and differential display methods, and genes related to the estrogen‐independent vaginal changes in mice induced by estrogens during the critical window. In this review, discussion of our own findings related to endocrine distuptor issue will be provided.
The initial development of motor neurons in the neural tube of rat embryos
Authors: Matsuda Motoko
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT  The time of origin of motor neurons and their distribution in the spinal cord was studied in rat embryos by combining whole‐embryo culture and the Islet‐1 inununostaining technique. Cells immunostained for Islet‐1 appeared in the trunk neural tube by 27 hours (corresponding to E10.625) in culture of E9.5 embryos, at which time the cell number of the neural tube in a transverse section was about 200. When the neural tube retarded developmentally by lithium treatment, the time of appearance of the motor neurons was delayed to 33 hours in culture (corresponding to E10.875), but the cell number of the neural tube was about 200. After the initial appearance of motor neurons in the ventral aspect of the neural tube, they distributed in a group in the periphery of the basal plate by 48 hours (corresponding to E11.5) in culture, although in the retarded neural tube the number of motor neurons was small and they did not form a cluster. The percentage of Islet‐1‐positive cells at the point of the same cell number of the trunk neural tube in the transverse section was higher in the retarded embryos than in controls. These results suggest that motor neurons begin to appear when the cell number of the neural tube in the transverse section becomes about 200 and their initial development is more stable than overall neural tube development.
A case of midline cervical cleft
Authors: Tsukuno Man , Kite Yoko , Kurihara Kunihiro
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT  Midline cervical cleft is a rare congenital developmental anomaly of the ventral neck. Less than 100 cases have been reported in published journals to date (Ayache et al., 1997). It is usually found as congenital scar‐like skin defect or cord‐like contractive abnormality of the skin at the ventral neck. Unlike “median cervical cyst” or “lateral cervical cyst”, midline cervical cleft usually has no anatomical association with the hyoid bone. We will present a case of midline cervical cleft without fistula but with very small protuberant tissue. The subject was operated at the age of 5 months. We will discuss the clinical aspect and surgical management of this infrequent anomaly.
Antiandrogenic effects of dibutyl phthalate and its metabolite, monobutyl phthalate, in rats
Authors: Ema Makoto
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT  Developmental toxicity following administration of dibutyl phthalate (DBF) and its major metabolite, monobutyl phthalate (MBuP), by gavage was determined in Wistar rats. DBF on days 0–8 of pregnancy induced an increase in the incidence of preimplantation loss at 1250 mg/kg and higher and postimplantation loss at 750 mg/kg and higher. MBuP on days 0–8 of pregnancy produced an increase in the incidence of pre‐and postimplantation loss at 1000 mg/kg. DBF on days 7–15 of pregnancy caused an increase in the incidence of fetuses with malformations at 750 mg/kg. MBuP on days 7–15 of pregnancy produced an increased incidence of fetuses with malformations at 500 mg/kg and higher. DBF on days 15–17 of pregnancy resulted in a decrease in the anogenital distance (AGD) of male fetuses and increase in the incidence of fetuses with undescended testes at 500 mg/kg and higher. MBuP on days 15–17 of pregnancy caused a decreased male AGD and increased incidence of fetuses with undescended testes at 250 mg/kg and higher. No effect of DBF and MBuP on the AGD was found in female offspring. The spectrum of fetal malformations, dependence of gestational days of treatment on the manifestation of teratogenicity, and alterations in development of the male reproductive system observed after administration of DBF were in good agreement with those observed after administration of MBuP. These findings suggest that MBuP may be responsible for the induction of developmental toxic effects of DBP. The doses that produced a decrease in the AGD and undescended testes in male offspring were lower than those producing maternal toxicity, fetal malformations after administration during major organogenesis, and embryonic loss. The male reproductive system may be more susceptible than other organ systems to DBP and MBuP toxicity after maternal exposure.
Suspected involvement of the X chromosome in placental mesenchymal dysplasia
Authors: Arizawa Masayoshi , Nakayama Masahiro
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT  So far, 46 cases of placental mesenchymal dysplasia have been reported worldwide. We encountered 15 cases of placental mesenchymal dysplasia (PMD) including 7 cases delivered in our hospital. The incidence of PMD in our hospital was therefore, 7/30, 758 (0.02%). The PMD had a peculiar appearance. In the gross findings, large placenta with intestine‐like dilatation of the vessels on the fetal side was reported. Microscopically, cistern‐like dilatation of the stem villi, fetal artery thrombosis, and villous hemorrhage were reported. However, we believe most of these findings are secondary rather than the primary of mesenchymal dysplasia. Therefore, we investigated 15 other cases of mesenchymal dysplasia, and found including vascular abnormality of the stem, intermediate and terminal villi in all case of PMD. The abnormality was observed in the vessels of the periphery of the stem villi and their vessel walls were thin and appeared weak. The intermediate villous vessels were unusual, tangled. The terminal villous abnormalities showed chorangiosis and stromal hyperplasia. These findings are mesenchymal dysplasia origin. Moreover, PMD showed female‐predominant. 14/15 was female among our cases, We discuss the relationship between mesenchymal dysplasia and the X chromosome in this paper.
Integration of a transposon into the Gli3 gene in the Pdn mouse
Authors: Ueta Etsuko , Nanba Eiji , Naruse Ichiro
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT  The phenotype of the genetic polydactyly/arhinencephaly mouse (Pdn/Pdn) is similar to Greig cephalopolysyndactyly syndrome (GCPS), whose responsible gene is GLI3. Suppression of Gli3 gene expression has been observed in the Pdn/Pdn and integration of retrotransposon in Gli3 gene in the Pdn mouse has been reported. Thus, the responsible gene for Pdn/Pdn is thought to be Gli3, but the site of mutation within the gene has not been demarcated.

In the present study, we demonstrated that 5442 bp of early retrotransposon was inserted into intron 3 of Gli3 gene in the Pdn mouse (Gli3Pdn). This transposon had almost the same sequence as MMY17106 (EMBL). It had 317‐bp long terminal repeat at both ends followed by the identical 6‐bp target duplication sequence, GAGACT. Forward and reverse PCR primers were constructed in intron 3 near the insertion point, and a forward primer in the transposon was also constructed. These primers allowed us to discriminate +/+, Pdn/+ and Pdn/Pdn embryos by the PCR products. Morphological determination of the genotypes in the Pdn mouse embryos is impossible before day 12 of gestation. Quick discrimination method of genotypes developed in the present study allows us to investigate the early dysmorphogenetic mechanisms in the brain and limbs in the Pdn/Pdn embryos. Then, the dysmorphogenetic mechanisms in the Pdn/Pdn may be extrapolated to those in GCPS.
Preparation and Properties of Machinable Si2N2O/BN Composites
Authors: Tong Qingfeng , Zhou Yanchun , Zhang Jie , Wang Jingyang , Li Meisuan , Li Zhongping
Published: May 2008

Si2N2O/BN composites were successfully fabricated. With increasing BN content, the elastic modulus and hardness almost linearly decrease while the flexural strength does not exhibit a dramatic degradation. This is attributed to the fact that the homogeneously dispersed nanosized BN particles inhibit the grain growth of Si2N2O. The critical thermal‐shock resistance temperature of the Si2N2O/30 vol% BN composite is enhanced by 400°C than monolithic Si2N2O. The introduction of BN significantly improves the dielectric properties and machinability. The Si2N2O/BN composites show a combination of high strength, low dielectric constant, good thermal shock resistance, and machinability, indicating that they are promising structural/functional materials.
Effect of Bismuth Borate/LiF on the Sintering, Thermal, and Microwave Dielectric Properties of Ba6−3xSm8+2xTi18O54 (x=2/3) Solid Solution
Authors: Santha Narayana Iyer
Published: May 2008

Ba6−3xSm8+2xTi18O54 (x=2/3) (BST) was prepared by the solid‐state method and the effect of bismuth borate (BB)/LiF on the sinterability, microstructure, and thermal and microwave dielectric properties were studied. BST+3.5 wt% BB+0.5 wt% LiF composite sintered at 1050°C has Q×f=4500 GHz, ɛ=52, and τf=+6 ppm/°C. Raman spectrum of the composite was compared with that of BST and the structural changes were investigated.
Preparation of Machinable Fluoramphibole Glass–Ceramics from Soda‐Lime Glass and Fluormica
Authors: Zhang Weiyi , Gao Hong
Published: May 2008

A novel route, directly mixing fluormica crystals with recycled soda‐lime glass powder and then sintering, is proposed to fabricate machinable fluoramphibole glass–ceramics. The effect of fluormica addition on the sinterability, reactive crystallization behavior, strength, and machinability of the material was investigated. The relative densities of the glass–ceramics decreased with increasing fluormica content. An interaction between fluormica crystals and glass powder occurred during the sintering process. Diopside was formed in the glass–ceramics with 20 wt% fluormica, and fluorrichterite was formed in the glass–ceramics with more than 30 wt% fluormica. Machinability and strength of the glass–ceramics were improved with increasing crystalline phase content.
Telotroch formation, survival, and attachment in the epibiotic peritrich Zoothamnium intermedium (Ciliophora, Oligohymenophorea)
Authors: Utz Laura R.P. , Coats D. Wayne
Published: May 2008

Abstract. Aspects of the life cycle of the peritrich ciliate Zoothamnium intermedium, an epibiont on calanoid copepods in the Chesapeake Bay, were investigated using host and epibiont cultures. Experiments were designed to characterize the formation, survival, and attachment of free‐swimming stages (telotrochs) and to assess whether telotrochs preferentially attach to primary (Acartia tonsa and Eurytemora affinis) or alternate hosts from the zooplankton community (the rotifer Brachionus plicatilis, barnacle nauplii, polychaete larvae, and a harpacticoid copepod). The results showed that telotroch formation started 2 h after the death of the host, with >90% of the zooids leaving the host carapace within 7 h. Formation of telotrochs was triggered only by the death of the host, failing to occur when the host was injured or unable to swim. Telotrochs failed to attach to non‐living substrates and survived for only 14 h in the absence of host organisms, suggesting that members of Z. intermedium are obligate epibionts. Attachment success decreased with telotroch age, indicating that colonization success in nature may strongly depend on the ability to find a suitable host in a short period of time. Individuals exhibited no preferences in colonizing juvenile or adult stages of A. tonsa or E. affinis. While telotrochs were able to colonize barnacle nauplii and the harpacticoid copepod in the absence of individuals of A. tonsa or E. affinis, they did not attach to the rotifers or polychaete larvae. Telotrochs preferentially colonized individuals of A. tonsa when in the presence of other non‐calanoid host species.
Function of the flexible periostracal hairs in Trichotropis cancellata (Mollusca, Gastropoda)
Authors: Iyengar Erika V. , Sitvarin Michael I. , Cataldo Marianne
Published: May 2008

Abstract. The marine snail Trichotropis cancellata possesses hairy projections of periostracum (outer shell layer) whose function is unknown. Although rigid shell projections in molluscs have been studied extensively, the selective advantage of flexible extensions of periostracum is less clear. None of the functions proposed previously for periostracum (e.g., protection from erosion and boring) are promoted when it is drawn into hair‐like projections. We investigated hypothetical functions that may be served by flexible periostracal hairs, including predator deterrence, alteration of flow vectors to promote feeding or affect turbulence dynamics during freefall, and providing a differential substratum for epibionts. Our laboratory results indicate that crabs, Cancer oregonensis, and sea stars, Pycnopodia helianthoides, consumed snails with the periostracum removed more often than snails with an intact hairy periostracum. However, in both predatory species, some individuals showed no significant preference, and another crab species (Cancer productus) did not strongly discriminate based on the shell periostracum. Field studies showed no difference in the rate of predation on hairy‐ versus smooth‐shelled snails. The hairs did not alter flow around the shells consistently in laboratory flume experiments. Additionally, hairy‐ and smooth‐shelled kleptoparasitic snails grew at rates that were statistically indistinguishable, while hairy, suspension‐feeding snails grew more slowly. The hairs did not impact the orientation of a snail after a falling event or the time to righting after a fall. The presence of the hairs did deter settlement by barnacles. We conclude that the hairy periostracum acts as a slight deterrent to crab and sea star predators and as a stronger deterrent to the settlement of large calcareous epibionts, such as barnacles, that would increase the weight the snail must bear and potentially increase drag.
Modeling Ground Water Flow in Alluvial Mountainous Catchments on a Watershed Scale
Authors: Wolf Jens , Barthel Roland , Braun Jürgen
Published: May 2008

In large mountainous catchments, shallow unconfined alluvial aquifers play an important role in conveying subsurface runoff to the foreland. Their relatively small extent poses a serious problem for ground water flow models on the river basin scale. River basin scale models describing the entire water cycle are necessary in integrated water resources management and to study the impact of global climate change on ground water resources. Integrated regional‐scale models must use a coarse, fixed discretization to keep computational demands low and to facilitate model coupling. This can lead to discrepancies between model discretization and the geometrical properties of natural systems. Here, an approach to overcome this discrepancy is discussed using the example of the German‐Austrian Upper Danube catchment, where a coarse ground water flow model was developed using MODFLOW. The method developed uses a modified concept from a hydrological catchment drainage analysis in order to adapt the aquifer geometry such that it respects the numerical requirements of the chosen discretization, that is, the width and the thickness of cells as well as gradients and connectivity of the catchment. In order to show the efficiency of the developed method, it was tested and compared to a finely discretized ground water model of the Ammer subcatchment. The results of the analysis prove the applicability of the new approach and contribute to the idea of using physically based ground water models in large catchments.
Multicomponent Simulations of Contrasting Redox Environments at an LNAPL Site
Authors: Miles B. , Peter A. , Teutsch G.
Published: May 2008

A two‐dimensional multicomponent reactive transport modeling approach was used to simulate contaminant transport and the evolution of redox processes at a large‐scale kerosene‐contaminated site near Berlin, Germany. In contrast to previous site‐scale modeling studies that focused either on one or two contaminants or on steady‐state redox conditions, multiple contaminants and electron acceptors, including mineral phase Iron (III), were considered with an evolving redox zonation. Inhibition terms were used to switch between the different electron acceptor processes in the reaction scheme. The transient evolution of redox zones and contaminant plumes was simulated for two separate transects of the site, which have different geology and ground water recharge distributions and where quite different downstream contaminant and terminal electron–accepting process (TEAP) distributions are observed. The same reaction system, calibrated to measured concentrations along one of the transects, was used in both cases, achieving a reasonable match with observed concentrations. The differences between the two transects could thus to some extent be attributed to the different hydrological and hydrogeological conditions, in particular ground water recharge distributions. Long‐term simulations showed that the distribution of TEAPs evolves as Fe(III) becomes depleted, with conditions becoming increasingly methanogenic, leading to changes in contaminant plume lengths. The models were applied to assess the potential effects of planned changes in land use at the site that may affect the ground water recharge distribution. The simulated redox zonation responded strongly to changes in recharge, which in turn led to changes in the contaminant plume lengths.
The role of gastroesophageal reflux disease in asthma
Authors: Huggins Sandra
Published: May 2008

Purpose: To emphasize the relationship between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and asthma symptoms or exacerbations.

Data sources: Selective review of the scientific literature.

Conclusions: Although studies in recent years have offered insight into the relationship between GERD and asthma symptoms, many nurse practitioners (NPs) fail to recognize atypical GERD symptoms, which may explain difficult‐to‐treat asthma and exacerbation. It has become evident that patients suffering from persistent asthma display an increased prevalence of GERD.

Implications for practice: While there are increasing constraints that limit the provider–patient interaction time, it is imperative that NPs develop keen assessment skills to effectively diagnose and treat asthma symptoms that are a product of GERD. Awareness of the asthma–GERD relationship allows NPs to quickly obtain pertinent information and successfully determine how to efficiently treat symptomatic asthmatic patients.
Against the grain: An overview of celiac disease
Authors: Martin Suzanne
Published: May 2008

Purpose:To review the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of celiac disease (CD).

Data sources:Review of literature using Pub Med and Access Medicine. The following search terms were used: celiac disease, malabsorption syndromes, diarrhea, and gluten‐free diet (GFD). There was no limitation placed on publication year. Only articles written in English were included.

Conclusions:CD is a chronic systemic autoimmune disorder triggered in genetically susceptible individuals by the ingestion of gluten proteins (wheat, barley, and rye). CD often presents atypically, and diagnosis delays are common. Currently, the only effective treatment for CD is strict adherence to a GFD. This is a difficult diet to comprehend and follow. Adherence to a GFD requires ongoing education and support from a multidisciplinary healthcare team, support groups, family, and friends.

Implications for practice:Once considered a rare disease of childhood, CD is now recognized as a common disorder that can occur at any age. Clinicians need to be cognizant of risk factors, clinical manifestations, conditions, and complications associated with CD in order to make a timely diagnosis, ameliorate symptoms, and minimize disease complications.
Wheat from chaff: Third‐party monitoring and FEC enforcement actions
Authors: Lochner Todd , Apollonio Dorie , Tatum Rhett
Published: May 2008

Regulatory theory suggests that providing agencies with multiple sanctioning options allows them to dispose promptly of less serious matters and thereby conserve resources to pursue serious offenders. However, agencies dependent on third‐party monitoring may have their enforcement agendas skewed toward more trivial violations. We consider these competing expectations by analyzing enforcement actions at the US Federal Election Commission(FEC) from 1999 to 2004. The FEC – an agency heavily dependent on third‐party monitoring – expanded its enforcement options in 2000 by creating two new programs to pursue low‐level offenders, while leaving its monitoring strategy unchanged. We hypothesized that more sanctioning options would allow the FEC to allocate its resources more efficiently, and thus deal more effectively with the skew created by third‐party monitoring. We found instead that although the FEC disposed more promptly of low‐level infractions, it was no more effective at focusing on serious violations. Our results suggest that for many agencies, expanding enforcement options without addressing monitoring has limited ability to resolve enforcement problems.
Decentralized enforcement in organizations: An experimental approach
Authors: Feldman Yuval , Lobel Orly
Published: May 2008

Social enforcement, the decentralized action by organizational actors of monitoring, identifying, and reporting legal violations, is widely recognized as a key factor in ensuring good governance. This article reports on an experimental survey conducted in the US and Israel examining the behavior of individuals when confronting workplace unlawful conduct. The study provides novel insights into the relationships between state based, organization based, and employee based enforcement. It finds that the likelihood and the manner of reporting will vary depending on the type of illegality and are strongly correlated to perceptions of legitimacy, job security, and voice within the workplace. Comparing illegalities, employees prefer to report clear violations by rank and file employees rather than violations by managers. At the same time, external reporting to government or media entities is most likely when violations involve the organization as a whole or implicate top management. The study also finds cultural and gender differences in reporting patterns. Finally, the study provides support for the understanding that social norms are more predictive of social enforcement than expected organizational costs.
Rapid and Simple Measurement of H2 Emission from Active Faults Using Compact Sampling Equipments
Authors: Shimada Koji , Tanaka Hidemi , Saito Tomohiko
Published: May 2008

Smaller equipment has been developed for sampling and measuring H2 in fault zones. A considerable volume of hydrogen emission, suggesting the presence of fluid paths along fault zones, was detected within a 1‐h simple field procedure at an active fault in Central Japan, the Atotsugawa Fault. The equipment enabled measurements in a thin fault gouge with a thickness of 10 mm; this led to pervasive sampling from small fault zones hosted in harder rocks. A rapid evaluation of the spatio‐temporal heterogeneity of hydrogen emissions along the faults, using the present method, would increase knowledge of fluid circulation around faults.
Baseline Characteristics of Patients Randomized in the Resynchronization Reverses Remodeling in Systolic Left Ventricular Dysfunction (REVERSE) Study
Authors: Linde Cecilia , Gold Michael , Abraham William T. , Daubert Jean‐Claude
Published: May 2008

The Resynchronization Reverses Remodeling in Systolic Left Ventricular Dysfunction (REVERSE) study is a randomized controlled trial currently assessing the safety and efficacy of cardiac resynchronization therapy in patients with asymptomatic left ventricular (LV) dysfunction with previous symptoms of mild heart failure. This paper describes the baseline characteristics of randomized patients; 610 patients with New York Heart Association (NYHA) class II (82.3%) heart failure or asymptomatic (NYHA class I) LV dysfunction with previous symptoms (17.7%) were randomized in 73 centers. The mean age was 62.5±11.0 years, the mean LV ejection fraction was 26.7%±7.0%, and the mean LV end‐diastolic diameter was 66.9±8.9 mm. A total of 97% of patients were taking angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers and 95.1% were taking β‐blockers, which were at the target dose in 35.1% of patients. Compared with previous randomized cardiac resynchronization therapy trials, REVERSE patients are on better pharmacologic treatment, are younger, and have a narrower QRS width despite similar LV dysfunction.
A Practical Guide for Ultrafiltration in Acute Decompensated Heart Failure
Authors: Dahle Thom G. , Sobotka Paul A. , Boyle Andrew J.
Published: May 2008

Acute decompensated heart failure is the most common reason for inpatient hospital admission. Most patients admitted for decompensated heart failure are by definition diuretic‐resistant. The therapeutic objective for these patients is volume and sodium removal and restoration of diuretic sensitivity. In a significant proportion of patients, this objective is not met, subjecting patients to readmission for recurrent heart failure decompensation. Ultrafiltration therapy offers the potential of greater volume and sodium removal as compared with conventional therapies in a more expeditious manner. Ultrafiltration can be safely and effectively accomplished in a non‐intensive care setting but relies on earlier discharge with reduced readmission rates to be economically feasible. This paper reviews the current data regarding ultrafiltration therapy and provides a practical guide to patient selection, implementation and management of this therapy.
Genetic Testing and Genetic Counseling in Cardiovascular Genetic Medicine: Overview and Preliminary Recommendations
Authors: Cowan Jason , Morales Ana , Dagua Jimena , Hershberger Ray E.
Published: May 2008

In this emerging era of cardiovascular genetic medicine, increasing responsibility will be placed on cardiovascular practitioners to be aware of the latest clinical genetic testing methods and the knowledge base needed to interpret genetic test results. Some cardiovascular specialists will develop the expertise within the field to order genetic testing and interpret results, while other practitioners will refer patients to centers of excellence in cardiovascular genetic medicine. A previous article in the Cardiovascular Genetic Medicine: Clinical Perspectives and Future Applications series1 highlighted an increasing recognition of the cardiomyopathies (hypertrophic [HCM], dilated [DCM], arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia [ARVD]) and channelopathies (long QT syndrome [LQTS] and others) as genetic diseases, and focused on the importance of a targeted family history as a critical part of patient evaluation. The goal of this article, second in the series, is to provide a general framework for understanding the principles of genetic testing and genetic counseling. We review the growing number of genetic tests currently available to cardiac specialists, the selection of an appropriate test, and the numerous genetic counseling issues raised by the testing process. We also provide our preliminary recommendations for genetic testing in cardiovascular genetic medicine.
Salt‐Resistant and Salt‐Sensitive Phenotypes Determine the Sensitivity of Blood Pressure to Weight Loss in Overweight/Obese Patients
Authors: Hoffmann Irene S. , Alfieri Anna B. , Cubeddu Luigi X.
Published: May 2008

High blood pressure (BP) is extremely common in persons with obesity. However, not all obese individuals have high BP, nor does weight loss lower BP in all persons. In this study, the authors investigated whether the salt‐sensitive (SS) or salt‐resistant (SR) phenotype determines the degree of BP lowering induced by weight loss in a group of middle‐aged individuals of whom 80% are of Hispanic descent. Overweight/obese participants classified as SS or SR (N=45; body mass index, 27–35 kg/m2) entered a 1‐year program of dietary restriction, aerobic exercise, and metformin therapy. Comparable reductions in obesity (8%–10%), triglycerides (25%), and fasting insulin concentrations (40%) were observed in SR and SS individuals. In SS patients, the intervention lowered systolic BP/diastolic BP by 8.8/6.1 mm Hg, decreased albuminuria by 63%, and decreased the patient's salt sensitivity. Neither BP nor albuminuria was modified in SR persons by the intervention. In obese SS individuals, salt restriction induced comparable BP lowering as weight reduction. In summary, BP lowering induced by the lifestyle/metformin intervention appears to be determined by the SR/SS phenotype. Weight loss and correction of metabolic abnormalities lowers BP in obese SS persons but not in obese SR persons. Correcting adiposity in SS patients lowers BP by making the BP insensitive to dietary salt. The SR phenotype protects from obesity‐induced increases in BP.
Systolic Blood Pressure on Admission Predicts In‐Hospital Mortality Among Patients Presenting With Acute Coronary Syndromes: The Greek Study of Acute Coronary Syndromes
Authors: Pitsavos Christos , Panagiotakos Demosthenes , Zombolos Spyros , Mantas Yannis , Antonoulas Antonis , Stravopodis Petros , Kogias Yannis , Kourlaba Georgia , Tsiamis Eleftherios , Stefanadis Christodoulos
Published: May 2008

The authors sought to evaluate whether the level of systolic blood pressure (SBP) on hospital admission is an independent prognostic factor for in‐hospital mortality of patients hospitalized with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). From October 2003 to September 2004, 2172 consecutive patients with ACS were included in the study (76% men). The in‐hospital mortality rate was 3.2% in male and 5.7% in female patients (overall, 82 deaths; P=.009). An inverse association was observed between in‐hospital mortality rate and levels of SBP (<100 mm Hg, death rate 17.8%; 100–120 mm Hg, 3.7%; 120–140 mm Hg, 2.9%; >140 mm Hg, 2.6%; P<.001). Women, hypertensives, diabetics, dyslipidemics, and older patients had higher levels of SBP compared with other groups. The SBP of patients who received thrombolytic agents was lower than that of those who did not receive this therapy. Multi‐adjusted analysis revealed that a 10‐mm Hg increment in SBP was associated with a 27% lower likelihood of death during hospitalization (odds ratio, 0.73; 95% confidence interval, 0.66–0.90).

J Clin Hhypertens (Greenwich). 2008;10:362–366.
The Benefits of Intensive Lipid Lowering in Patients With Stable Coronary Heart Disease With Normal or High Systolic Blood Pressure: An Analysis of the Treating to New Targets (TNT) Study
Authors: Kostis John B. , Breazna Andrei , Deedwania Prakash C. , LaRosa John C.
Published: May 2008

This post‐hoc analysis of the Treating to New Targets (TNT) study evaluated the joint effects of managing low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) on cardiovascular outcomes. Patients (N=9739) with clinically evident, stable coronary heart disease (CHD) were randomized to atorvastatin 10 or 80 mg/d. The primary end point was occurrence of a first major cardiovascular event. At 3 months' follow‐up, patients were stratified according to SBP (<140 mm Hg vs ≥140 mm Hg) and tertiles of LDL‐C. At 4.9 years' median follow‐up, the rate of major cardiovascular events was reduced most in patients with lower LDL‐C (P<.001) and in patients with SBP <140 mm Hg (P=.014). A 42% relative risk reduction was observed for patients in the lowest LDL‐C tertile with an SBP <140 mm Hg, compared with patients in the highest LDL‐C tertile with an SBP ≥140 mm Hg. The effect of lower SBP on stroke was most pronounced in the lowest LDL‐C tertile.