bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of detergent combined with large tidal volume ventilation on alveolocapillary permeability
Authors: Taskar V. , Wollmer P. , Evander E. , John J. , Jonson B.
Published: April 2008

Summary. The combined effect of large tidal volume ventilation (LTVV) and detergent‐induced surfactant dysfunction on the clearance kinetics of technetium‐99m‐labelled diethylene triamine pentaacetate was investigated. Four groups of rabbits (n = 6 in each) were studied: (1) controls, (2) detergent, (3) LTVV, and (4) detergent+LTVV. Clearance was measured for 3 h and the kinetics was analysed by fitting mono‐ and biexpo‐nential equations to the clearance curve and was expressed as a half‐life (T1/2). Pulmonary clearance of 99mTc‐DTPA was monoexponential in control animals (T1/2= 194 min) and in animals ventilated with LTW (T1/2= 43 min, P < 0.01 compared with controls). In contrast, clearance was biexponential after detergent administration with or without LTVV. T1/2 values of the fast and slow compartments were 5.4 and 80 min, respectively, with the fast fraction comprising 81% of the radioactivity after detergent alone. When detergent was combined with LTVV, clearance was bicompart‐mental as with detergent alone, with the same size of the fast fraction. However, clearance from each of the slow (P < 0.01) and fast compartments (P<0.05) increased significantly. Clearance from the slow compartment was thus similar to T1/2 during LTVV alone. Large tidal volume ventilation induced a faster than normal clearance of a single compartment, whereas detergent induced kinetics that was distinctly bicompartmental. The mechanisms increasing permeability of the alveolocapillary barrier after detergent and during LTVV seem different and may be additive.
Classification of lung sounds in patients with asthma, emphysema, fibrosing alveolitis and healthy lungs by using self‐organizing maps
Authors: Malmberg L. P. , Kallio K. , Haltsonen S. , Katila T. , Sovijärvi A. R. A.
Published: April 2008

Summary. The performance of the self‐organizing map (SOM), an artificial neural network, was evaluated in the classification of lung sounds.

Patients with asthma (n = 8), emphysema (n = 8) and fibrosing alveolitis (n = 8), and patients with healthy lungs (n = 8) were selected for the study. Fast Fourier transform (FFT) spectra from midinspiratory breath sounds recorded at the right lower lobe area were used to construct feature vectors in the learning and classification process of SOM. The sound segments did not contain wheezing sounds.

The lung sounds of 25/32 (78%) patients were classified correctly, with an overall kappa (K) value of 0.71. The agreement between the clinical and proposed diagnoses based on classification of lung sounds was good among patients with emphysema (K = 0.92) and those with healthy lungs (K = 0.83), but only moderate among patients with asthma (K = 0.52) and fibrosing alveolitis (K = 0.54). This is due to the limitations in distinguishing breath sounds of asthmatics without wheezing sounds from those with crackles in fibrosing alveolitis by the spectral pattern alone.

The results indicate that SOM based on FFT spectra is potentially useful in the classification of lung sounds, e.g. in health screening or in differential diagnosis of pulmonary disorders. To enhance the performance of SOM, other features of lung sounds should be combined with FFT spectra.
Separation of pulmonary disorders with two‐dimensional discriminant analysis of crackles
Authors: Sovijärvi A. R. A. , Piirilä P. , Luukkonen R.
Published: April 2008

Summary. Previous studies have indicated that disorders producing crackling lung sounds may be different in terms of the waveform of the crackles or their timing in a respiratory cycle. In this study, we evaluated whether two‐dimensional discriminant analysis of crackles has a better ability to separate pulmonary disorders than does a single‐dimensional analysis. Crackling sounds of patients with cryptogenic fibrosing alveolitis (n =10), bronchiectasis (n =10), COPD (n =10), heart failure (n = 10) and acute pneumonia (n = ll) and of those recovering from pneumonia (n = 9) have been studied. Variables indicating the timing of crackles during inspiration (beginning and endpoint of crackling) and their waveform (initial deflection width (IDW), two cycle duration (2CD) and largest deflection width (LDW)), were used for the analysis. The discrimination properties of one‐ and two‐dimensional analyses with these variables were compared. The two‐dimensional distances between the patient groups were the largest by combining IDW and the end‐point of crackling. Cryptogenic fibrosing alveolitis was distinguished from bronchiectasis, COPD, heart failure and acute pneumonia without overlap. The differences between the diseases were illustrated two‐dimensionally with ellipses. The two‐dimensional analysis resulted in better separation between the groups than the use of single characteristics alone. This type of analysis can enhance the diagnostic power of acoustic pulmonary studies. It is also an informative visual way to find differences among pulmonary disorders.
Blood flow rate in arteriovenous anastomoses and capillaries in thumb, first toe, ear lobe, and nose
Authors: Midttun M. , Sejrsen P.
Published: April 2008

Summary. Measurements of blood flow rate in the pulp of the thumb, the first toe, the ear lobe, and the nose were performed using the heat‐washout method, and the 133Xe‐washout method under orthostatic changes in humans. Blood flow rate measured by the heat‐washout method in the thumb was about 127.5 ml (100 g‐min)‐1 at heart level in two subjects, (n=10), and in the pulp of the first toe in 6 subjects (n= 12) 49.3 ml (100 g‐min)‐1 at heart level. Above heart level blood flow rate decreased with the falling pressure head, and 50 cm below heart level blood flow remained unchanged compared to heart level. The arterioles supplying the capillaries in this region showed autoregula‐tion of blood flow to 50 cm above heart level, but a veno‐arteriolar reflex was not present. Blood flow rate in the ear lobe and on the side of the nose showed a similar pattern of reaction, with a blood flow rate in the arteriovenous anastomoses of about 100 ml (100 g‐min)‐1 in sitting position.
Electrodermal activity reveals respiratory and slower rhythms of the autonomic nervous system
Authors: Rittweger J. , Lambertz M. , Langhorst P.
Published: April 2008

Summary. Electrodermal Activity (EDA) was measured in 55 subjects during (1) an alarm reaction, (2) mental load, and (3) physical load. In 34 subjects, not only was a transient response observed, but also, oscillatory patterns chararcterizing short term variations of EDA. The durations of these oscillations varied between 3–16 s. Most commonly, they were approximately within the frequency range of respiration, or lower, at about 0.1 Hz. The EDA‐rhythms were also related to the arterial blood pressure. They were, however, not strictly synchronized with respiration or with the blood pressure waves. We conclude that assessment of EDA in combination with fluctuations of the heart rate, and also, if possible, arterial blood pressure, may turn out to be a useful tool in the evaluation of the interaction between different regulatory processes that are realized by the common brainstem system.
Effects of infused glucose on glycogen metabolism in healthy humans
Authors: Tounian P. , Schneiter Ph. , Henry S. , Tappy L.
Published: April 2008

SUMMARY. In order to determine whether or not hepatic glycogen breakdown contributes to systemic glucose flux during glucose infusion, net carbohydrate oxidation (indirect calorimetry) and the total rate of glucose appearance (6,6‐2H‐glucose) were measured in six healthy women during infusion of U‐13C labelled glucose (22 μmol/kg/min). Glucose infusion completely suppressed endogenous glucose production and increased net carbohydrate oxidation from 10.9±l.6 to 18.9±l.0 μmol/kg/min. To differentiate between the oxidation of endogenous (i.e. glycogen) and of exogenous carbohydrates, the 13CO2 production was measured and the oxidation of exogenous 13C labelled carbohydrate was calculated. For this purpose, the specific recovery factor in breath of 13CO2 issued from oxidation of uniformly labelled glucose was determined during infusions of equimolar amounts of 13C bicarbonate, 1‐13C acetate and 2‐13C acetate. The average recovery was 53.9±l.5%. The oxidation of exogenous carbohydrate was 20.9±0.74μmol/kg/min. This value was slightly higher than net carbohydrate oxidation, indicating that no oxidation of endogenous, unlabelled carbohydrate, and, hence, no utilization of hepatic glycogen took place. These results indicate that (i) estimation of glucose oxidation from indirect calorimetry and tracer technology give concordant results when an appropriate factor of 13CO2 recovery in breath is used, and (ii) utilization of previously formed glycogen is inhibited during hyperglycaemia and hyperinsulinaemia.
Simulation of re‐entry in a piece of myocardial tissue: strong sensitivity to spatial and temporal conditions
Authors: Wohlfart Björn , Ohlén Gunnar , Karlsson Lennart
Published: April 2008

SUMMARY. A simple model for the simulation of re‐entrant excitation was created. The model consists of a matrix of 15±15 compartments, where each compartment has its own action potential that depends dynamically on four ion currents (INa, ICa, IK and Ib) having time and voltage‐dependent activation and inactivation kinetics. The compartments were combined with resistors to simulate electrotonic interaction. At short excitation intervals the action potential was shortened in duration, and at even shorter coupling intervals decremental propagation occurred. Re‐entry around an obstacle could be elicited in response to a properly timed extra stimulus. A time dependent unidirectional block was made by making some of the action potentials longer in duration. An obstacle was not a necessary substrate for re‐entry, but the timing of the extra stimulus was critical. In the presence of an obstacle, the induction of re‐entry was critically dependent on the shape of the obstacle. The most important result of the simulations is that the system is highly sensitive to the initial spatial and temporal conditions. These sensitivities are generic features of dynamic systems that are described by non‐linear differential equations and are typical for chaotic systems. The system studied shows features associated with deterministic chaos.
Salivary α‐amylase as a measure of endogenous adrenergic activity
Authors: Chatterton Robert T. , Vogelsong Kirsten M. , Lu Yu‐cai , Ellman Allison B. , Hudgens Gerald A.
Published: April 2008

SUMMARY. This investigation was designed to evaluate the production rates and concentrations of salivary a‐amylase as a measure of adrenergic activity under several conditions of stress in human subjects. Saliva and blood samples were simultaneously collected from men at four 15 min intervals both before and after regimens for exercise, a written examination, or a rest period. The regressions of salivary a‐amylase on plasma norepinephrine (NE) concentrations were significant for both exercise (P < 0–001) and examination (P < 0.01) protocols. Aerobic exercise induced a 3‐fold mean increase in a‐amylase; both NE and epinephrine (EP) increased ≅5‐fold over control levels. Levels of a‐amylase and NE returned to control levels within 30.45 min after exercise, but EP remained elevated by ≅2‐fold during the remaining hour of observation. During the written examination, α‐amylase and NE, but not EP, concentrations increased in parallel. In further studies the effects of exercise and exposure to heat and cold on the relationship of salivary a‐amylase to heart rate and body temperature were investigated. Greater intensities of exercise were associated with greater increases in a‐amylase concentrations. During heat exposure in a sauna (66 ° C for 40 min) amylase, heart rate and body temperature all increased progressively. However, during exposure to cold (4 ° C for 40 min) amylase increased rapidly, though heart rate and body temperature remained unchanged. Salivary Cortisol concentrations were unchanged during exposure to heat or cold. We conclude that salivary a‐amylase concentrations are predictive of plasma catecholamine levels, particularly NE, under a variety of stressful conditions, and may be a more direct and simple end point of catecholamine activity than are changes in heart rate.
Pocket‐sized spirometer for monitoring bronchial challenge procedures
Authors: Keskinen H. , Piirilä P. , Nordman H. , Nurminen M.
Published: April 2008

SUMMARY. Diagnosis of occupational asthma is verified by inhalation challenge testing when frequent monitoring of peak expiratory flow (PEF) or forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEVj) is needed. FEV1 measurements also allow frequent monitoring of changes in small airways. For the follow‐up of lung function of suspected occupational asthma, a reliable, personal and mobile device is needed. We studied the accuracy of a pocket‐sized spirometer, Micro Plus Spirometer (MP), compared with our former combination of two devices, i.e. the values of forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) with those measured with the Vitalograph bellow spirometer (V); and the peak expiratory flow (PEF) values with the values obtained with a Wright PEF meter (W). In healthy control subjects, the values of FEVj obtained with Micro Plus correspond well to those obtained using a bellow spirometer (r= 0–97) and the mean difference (MP‐V) was ‐0–06 1 irrespective of the mean FE V1 value. W gives smaller PEF values than the MP; the mean difference in PEF (MP‐W) was 44 1 min‐1, but the values increased linearly with increasing flow. The poor relation between PEF values might be based on the low reliability of the Wright device. In patient follow‐up, the FEVj values measured with MP and V showed a good correlation (r= 0–99). The PEF values in patients increase linearly measured with W vs. MP with increasing flow values. In conclusion, we found the pocket‐sized spirometer a handy and useful device for monitoring bronchial challenge procedures in patients with suspected occupational asthma. The number of exhalations during the challenge test follow‐up is lessened when FEV1 and peak expiratory flow (PEF) can be measured simultaneously.
Investment Spikes in Dutch Greenhouse Horticulture
Authors: Goncharova Natalia , Oskam Arie , Oude Lansink Alfons , Van Der Vlist Arno , Verstegen Jos
Published: April 2008

The presence of investment cycles demonstrates the long‐run policy of firms investing in particular periods (investment spikes) with lower or zero investment levels in between, which contradicts the smooth pattern predicted by a convex adjustment model. This paper investigates the spells between investment spikes in a discrete‐time proportional hazard framework to estimate the probability of observing lumpy investment and factors underlying lumpy and intermittent patterns of investment. Duration models were estimated on two datasets: on an unbalanced panel and on average data of 10 ‘firm size’ groups of Dutch greenhouse firms over the period 1975–1999. Two specifications of the model were estimated: one includes only theoretically grounded variables, and the other specification is extended by empirically grounded variables. Theoretically based models can explain the occurrence of investment spikes. Both specifications of model show an investment cycle of six years. This is also confirmed for the average firm, which exhibits a higher hazard ratio in the 6th, 12–13th and 21st years of duration.
Decreases in HCN mRNA expression in the hippocampus after kindling and status epilepticus in adult rats
Authors: Powell Kim L. , Ng Caroline , O'Brien Terence J. , Xu Sheng Hong , Williams David A. , Foote Simon J. , Reid Christopher A.
Published: April 2008

Purpose:  Studies in animal models and patients have implicated changes in hyperpolarization‐activated cyclic nucleotide‐gated cation channel (HCN) expression in the pathogenesis of temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). However, the nature of HCN changes during the epileptogenic process and their commonality across different TLE models is unknown. Here HCN1 and HCN2 mRNA expression was quantitatively measured at different time points during epileptogenesis in two distinct animal models of TLE; the kainic acid (KA)‐induced status epilepticus (SE) and amygdala kindling models.

Methods:  Hippocampal subregions (CA1, CA3, and dentate gyrus [DG]) and entorhinal cortex were dissected at different time‐points. For KA‐induced SE animals this was 24 h, 7 days (preepileptic), and 6 weeks (epileptic) post status. For amygdala kindling animals this was 2 weeks after reaching either “partially kindled” (one class II/III seizure) or “fully kindled” (five class V seizures) states. Quantification of regional hippocampal neuronal loss in the KA‐treated animals was done using NeuN immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy.

Results:  HCN mRNA levels decreased in an isoform and region specific manner at all time points after KA‐induced SE. The decrease in neuronal number could not account for all reductions in HCN mRNA levels post‐KA insult, implicating transcriptional changes. A reduction in HCN2 mRNA levels was also observed in fully kindled animals in the CA3 region.

Conclusions:  A reduction in HCN mRNA levels is present in two different models of TLE. This supports the case that a reduction in HCN channel expression is an accompaniment of epileptogenesis in different adult models of TLE.
Alcohol trait and transcriptional genomic analysis of C57BL/6 substrains
Authors: Mulligan M. K. , Ponomarev I. , Boehm S. L. , Owen J. A. , Levin P. S. , Berman A. E. , Blednov Y. A. , Crabbe J. C. , Williams R. W. , Miles M. F. , Bergeson S. E.
Published: April 2008

C57BL/6 inbred mice have been widely used as research models; however, widespread demand has led to the creation of several B6 substrains with markedly different phenotypes. In this study, we report that two substrains of C57BL/6 mice, C57BL/6J (B6J) and C57BL/6NCrl (B6C), separated over 50 years ago at two different breeding facilities differ significantly in alcohol consumption and alcohol preference. The genomes of these two substrains are estimated to differ by only 1–2% of all gene loci, providing a unique opportunity to extract particular expression signatures between these substrains that are associated with quantifiable behavioral differences. Expression profiling of the cortex and striatum, hippocampus, cerebellum and the ventral brain region from alcohol‐naïve B6C and B6J mice showed intervals on three chromosomes that are enriched in clusters of coregulated transcripts significantly divergent between the substrains. Additional analysis identified two genomic regions containing putative copy number differences between the substrains. One such region on chromosome 14 contained an estimated 3ncopy number in the B6J genome compared with B6C. Within this interval, a gene of unknown function,D14Ertd449e, was found to be both associated with alcohol preference and vary in copy number across several inbred strain lineages.H2afz,Psen1,Wdfy1andCluwere also identified as candidate genes that may be involved in influencing alcohol consumption.
Peas, beans, and the Pythagorean theorem – the relevance of glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency in dermatology
Authors: Brandt Oliver , Rieger Armin , Geusau Alexandra , Stingl Georg
Published: April 2008

Glucose‐6‐phosphate (G6PD) deficiency is a common disease characterized by acute hemolysis induced by oxidative stress. More than 400 million subjects throughout the world carry the hereditary enzyme defect with the highest prevalences in Africa, Asia, and the Mediterranean region.

In individuals affected by the erythrocytic enzymatic disorder, besides infectious diseases and diet, acute hemolytic crisis can be triggered by numerous drugs frequently used for the treatment of dermatoses.Taking into account the increasing number of immigrants from geographic regions with high preva‐lences of G6PD deficiency, dermatologists should be alert to the presence of disease.
Establishment of nomograms and reference ranges for intra‐cranial ventricular dimensions and ventriculo‐hemispheric ratio in newborns by ultrasonography
Authors: Sondhi Vishal , Gupta Girish , Gupta PK , Patnaik Suprabha K , Tshering Kinley
Published: April 2008

Aim: To establish normal ranges for the lateral, third, and fourth ventricular dimensions and the ventriculo‐hemispheric ratio (VHR) in neonates using cranial ultrasonography.

Method: Intra‐cranial ventricles were assessed ultrasonographically using anterior fontanelle as acoustic window. Data were analyzed to determine correlation, coefficient of determination (R2), regression equations and plotted against gestational age (GA).

Results: Of total 1483 neonates (25–42 w GA), 372(25%) had GA < 34 weeks. GA strongly correlated with anterior horn width (AHW; 0.92), thalamo‐occipital distance (TOD; 0.94), and third (0.78) and fourth (0.89) ventricular widths. The R2 values were 0.85, 0.88, 0.66 and 0.80, respectively. VHR had weak correlation (0.12, R2= 0.005) with GA and stayed constant (0.27–0.28) across GA. Nomograms of AHW, TOD, and third and fourth ventricular widths were constructed with respect to GA.

Conclusion: Intra‐cranial ventricles increase in size with GA but this increase is limited to only a few mm and is proportional to increment in brain tissue. Nomograms and regression equations of AHW, TOD and widths of third and fourth ventricles can assist in objectively assessing ventricular sizes. The almost uniform VHR can be used to screen ventricle size while suspecting hydrocephalus.
Systemic air embolism after cardiopulmonary resuscitation in a preterm infant
Authors: Andriessen P , Halbertsma F , Van Lijnschoten G , Weerdenburg H , Oetomo S Bambang
Published: April 2008

We report a preterm infant with extensive systemic air embolism after cardiopulmonary resuscitation for cardiac arrest due to an occluding thrombus in the inferior vena cava. After excluding other potential causes (air infusion, necrotizing enterocolitis or pulmonary leakage syndrome), we postulate that the pressure gradient needed for air embolism to occur is related to the resuscitation procedure. An important clue of air embolism was noted on the chest X‐ray taken before death showing intracardial air.

Conclusion: Systemic air embolism may occur as a very rare complication after cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
Shaken baby syndrome and a baby's cry
Authors: Talvik Inga , Alexander Randell C , Talvik Tiina
Published: April 2008

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between crying of an infant and inflicted head injury by shaking and/or impact.

During the period between January 1, 1997 and December 31, 2003, 26 cases of shaken baby syndrome (SBS) were identified in Estonia.

The incidence of SBS was 28.7 per 100 000 children under 1 year of age during the whole study period. In this group there were four children from twin pairs: two twin boys and a girl from a twin pair and a boy from another twin pair. This represents 15.4% of the 26 cases. Twins in Estonia represent 2.12% of infant births.

The mean age on admission was 3.9 months. According to outpatient records almost all parents (88.5%) in the study group (23/26) had contacted their family physicians and other specialists because of excessive crying or irritability of the baby prior to the admission to the hospital with SBS or death. We found that the time curve of crying was similar to the curve of highest incidence of cases of SBS except the crying curve began earlier.

Conclusion. Our data confirm that the families with twins are at additional risk for SBS and parent's complaints of excessive crying of their infants should be taken as signal that parents need to be carefully counselled.
A survey of current dental problems and treatments of zoo animals
Authors: GLATT S. E. , FRANCL K. E. , SCHEELS J. L.
Published: April 2008

Although communication among zoos and aquariums about animal dental practices is increasing among Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) institutions, little printed information is available about the general dental practices and dental problems commonly encountered. In order to encourage communication and collaboration among practicing institutions, we surveyed AZA‐sanctioned zoos and aquariums to determine trends in zoo dentistry. Results are presented from 53 participating institutions, discussing the most common problems encountered (malocclusions, dental fractures and periodontal disease) across specific animal groups, and a range of personnel participating in dental procedures (licensed veterinarians, dentists, veterinary technicians). Our results provide a foundation of common dental practices, encouraging additional research‐oriented studies and collaboration between zoos and aquariums in the field of animal dentistry.
Captive management and breeding of Romer's tree frog Chirixalus romeri
Authors: BANKS C. B. , LAU M. W. N. , DUDGEON D.
Published: April 2008

In the early 1990s, a significant portion of the range of the endemic Romer's tree frog Chirixalus romeri was threatened by the construction of the new international airport in Hong Kong. Melbourne Zoo, Australia, partnered with The University of Hong Kong to establish a captive‐breeding programme as part of a broader conservation initiative to secure the species in the wild. Large numbers of frogs were successfully bred at both facilities, underpinning the success of subsequent releases.
How to lose a habitat in 5 years: trial and error in the conservation of the Farmland green tree frog Rhacophorus arvalis in Taiwan
Authors: CHANG J. C.‐W. , TANG H.‐C. , CHEN S.‐L. , CHEN P.‐C.
Published: April 2008

Taipei Zoo, Taipei Zoological Foundation, the Wild Bird Society of Yunlin and the Farmers' Association of Gukeng Township worked as a team to raise funds for the conservation of the Farmland green tree frog Rhacophorus arvalis. However, after 5 years of giving farmers subsidies to maintain bamboo bushes on their land, the area of the frog's habitat had decreased by more than 50%. This was mainly the result of a change in crops grown on the land, because as the farmers aged they were increasingly unable to carry out the heavy work involved in bamboo growing and they were only being paid low prices for their bamboo‐shoot crops. Taipei Zoo and Taipei Zoological Foundation are still working on the conservation of this frog species but we have changed our methods. Instead of giving subsidies to farmers, we are now working to develop a green‐label certification system and ecotourism.
Management of disease as a threat to amphibian conservation
Authors: PESSIER A. P.
Published: April 2008

Infectious diseases, such as chytridiomycosis, have been recognized as one major cause of worldwide amphibian population declines. In response to these declines, there are increased demands for zoos and aquariums to develop amphibian captive survival assurance colonies and participate in breeding programmes to produce animals for reintroduction into the wild. To this end, there is a huge responsibility for zoos not only to be familiar with the control of chytridiomycosis and Ranavirus infection, which are the major emerging infectious diseases of wild amphibian populations, but also to recognize the potential threats posed by a myriad of other infectious diseases that have yet to be well described or understood. The example of chytridiomycosis as a disease that has been transmitted by anthropogenic means worldwide makes it essential that zoos make every effort to prevent introduction of deleterious infectious agents into wild amphibian populations as the result of reintroduction programmes. Captive animals destined for eventual release into the wild should be maintained in states of ‘permanent quarantine’ that are well isolated from cosmopolitan zoo collections. Comprehensive disease surveillance and testing programmes should be part of the standard operating procedures for zoo amphibian programmes. Finally, wild amphibians brought into captive survival assurance colonies will present husbandry and disease‐control challenges including elimination of pre‐existing infectious diseases like chytridiomycosis, control of rhabditiform nematodes and development of a better understanding of amphibian nutrition.
Notes on behaviour, communication and reproduction in captive Hyloxalus toachi (Anura: Dendrobatidae), an Endangered Ecuadorian frog
Authors: QUIGUANGO‐UBILLÚS A. , COLOMA L. A.
Published: April 2008

We studied, under laboratory conditions, behavioural traits related to social interactions, parental care and communication in Hyloxalus toachi. This species is diurnal. Females spent most of their time maintaining and defending territories and were more territorial than ♂♂. Male vocalizations included long‐range advertisement calls, two kinds of close‐range courtship calls, aggression calls and sounds produced while attempting to clasp ♀♀. During body contact, ♂♂ and ♀♀ produced encounter calls. Preovipositional amplexus was cephalic and lasted 10–15 minutes. During terrestrial oviposition, the ♂ climbed onto the dorsum of the ♀ in an axillary position, but without clasping the ♀. Fertilization occurred as the eggs were deposited. When oviposition was completed, the ♂ left the ♀, while the ♀ remained close to the clutch for up to 5 hours. The mean clutch size was 11 eggs. Eggs had a mean diameter of 2·4 mm. The incubation time was 13–16 days. During that time, egg attendance and transport of tadpoles to water were performed exclusively by the ♂. Tadpoles were carried on the ♂'s dorsum for up to 5 days. The behaviours and features reported here are useful for interpreting trends in the evolution of dendrobatid behaviour.
Management and reproduction of the Colombian Magdalena River poison‐dart frog Dendrobates truncatus at Cali Zoo
Authors: LONDOÑO G. CORREDOR , TOVAR N. URIBE
Published: April 2008

The Colombian Magdalena River poison‐dart frog Dendrobates truncatus is an endemic species. Little is known about the biology and ecology of the species. This paper describes aspects of the management and reproductive biology of D. truncatus as it was maintained at Cali Zoo. From 2003 to 2004, we recorded 205 clutches and different embryonic and larval stages were monitored, allowing us to establish the breeding season, sizes and time of development. We also describe the care and management of eggs, tadpoles, immature and mature individuals, as well as pigmentation patterns in the late stages of larval development.
Collaboration for amphibian conservation: the establishment of the Johannesburg Zoo Amphibian Conservation Center in South Africa with assistance from Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo, USA
Authors: VAN DER SPUY S. D. , KREBS J.
Published: April 2008

Amphibian populations around the world are rapidly declining in number as their habitats become increasingly unsuitable for survival. A call from the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums prompted Johannesburg Zoo to set up a centre for amphibian breeding and research. It soon became apparent that assistance would be required to learn the skills necessary to house and reproduce South African amphibian species successfully. Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo, Nebraska, USA, was approached to assist in developing these skills at the Johannesburg Zoo. The result of this strong collaborative effort was the establishment of the Johannesburg Zoo Amphibian Conservation Center.
Immunogenicity of a reduced dose of A/H3N2 in the 2005 southern hemisphere formulation of inactivated split influenza vaccine
Authors: Burrell Christopher , Booy Robert , Wood Nicholas , Egan Anne‐Marie , Taverner David , Williams Ken , Liauw Winston , Moskwa Alan , Pepin‐Covatta Stephanie , Saville Melanie
Published: April 2008

Background  The 2005 southern hemisphere formulation of the inactivated split‐virion influenza vaccine Vaxigrip® unintentionally contained a lower concentration of haemagglutinin (HA) than European Pharmacopoeia (EP) and WHO specifications for one of the three strains.

Objectives  To evaluate the immunogenicity of the 2005 southern hemisphere formulation of an influenza vaccine containing 9 μg/dose of HA for A/Wellington/1/2004(H3N2) strain, and 15 μg/dose for each of the A/New Caledonia/20/99(H1N1) strain and B/Shanghai/361/2002‐like strains.

Patients/methods  In an open, non‐controlled multicentre clinical trial, 75 healthy adults (18–59 years) and 65 healthy older adults (≥60 years) were vaccinated once. Serum samples were obtained on D0 and 21 for haemagglutination inhibition (HAI) antibody titration.

Results  A high proportion of adults (64%) and elderly (68%) were already seroprotected (HAI titre of ≥40) against A/Wellington/1/2004(H3N2) before vaccination, probably due to high circulation of an antigenically similar H3N2 strain and a high 2004 vaccination rate. By D21, seroprotection rates against H3N2 attained 93·8% and 96·0% in adults and elderly respectively. The other two immunogenicity criteria for annual licensure of influenza vaccines in Europe were also met in both age groups for the H3N2 strain, and also for the H1N1 and B strains.

Conclusions  These results enabled the 2005 southern hemisphere vaccine to be used in expectation that it would provide satisfactory protection against influenza, despite the reduced H3N2 antigen content.
Evidence for avian influenza A infections among Iowa’s agricultural workers
Authors: Gray Gregory C. , McCarthy Troy , Capuano Ana W. , Setterquist Sharon F. , Alavanja Michael C. , Lynch Charles F.
Published: April 2008

Background Identifying risk factors for zoonotic influenza transmission may aid public health officials in pandemic influenza planning.

Objectives We sought to evaluate rural Iowan agriculture workers exposed to poultry for previous evidence of avian influenza virus infection.

Methods In 2004, we enrolled 803 rural adult Iowans in a 2‐year prospective study of zoonotic influenza transmission. Their enrollment data and sera were compared with those of 66 adult controls enrolled at the University of Iowa in 2006 by using proportional odds modeling.

Results Of the 803 participants 58·8% were male with a mean age of 55·6 years. Forty‐eight percent reported previous poultry exposure. Sera were studied by microneutralization techniques for antibodies against avian H4, H5, H6, H7 and H9 viruses. Touching live birds was associated (OR 1·2; 95% CI 1·02–1·8) with increased antibody titer against H5 virus. Similarly, participants who reported hunting wild birds had increased antibody titers against H7 virus (OR 2·8; 95%CI 1·2–6·5) and subjects who reported recent exposure to poultry had increased antibody titers against H6 (OR 3·4; 95% CI 1·4–8·5) and H7 viruses (OR 2·5, 95% CI 1·1–5·7). There was no evidence of elevated antibody against avian H4 or H9 viruses.

Conclusions These data suggest that hunting and exposure to poultry may be important risk factors for avian influenza virus infection among rural US populations. Agriculture workers should be included in influenza pandemic plans.
Body condition influences sperm energetics in lake whitefish (Coregonus clupeaformis)
Authors: Burness Gary , Schulte-Hostedde Albrecht I , Montgomerie Robert
Published: April 2008

Theoretical models predict that individual males will increase their investment in ejaculates when there is a risk of sperm competition. Because the production of ejaculates is assumed to be energetically costly, only those males in good physical condition should be capable of producing ejaculates of high quality. We studied ejaculate investment (relative testis size, controlling for body size) as well as the size, behaviour, and energetics of spermatozoa in lake whitefish (Coregonus clupeaformis), a species in which males provide nothing but sperm to females during reproduction. Ejaculate investment was condition dependent, with males in better body condition having relatively larger testes. Sperm adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels were unaffected by male condition alone, but increased with testis size when controlling statistically for both male size or body condition. Thus, males investing in relatively larger testes produced spermatozoa with higher energetic capacity. We also discovered testis asymmetry in this species, a phenomenon not previously reported in fishes, though widespread in other taxa. The mass of the (larger) left testis was a better predictor of sperm ATP stores than the mass of the (smaller) right testis (controlling for body size), suggesting that testis size asymmetry might be related to the production of high-quality sperm.
Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) invasion and the spread of hybridization with native westslope cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii lewisi)
Authors: Boyer Matthew C , Muhlfeld Clint C , Allendorf Fred W
Published: April 2008

We analyzed 13 microsatellite loci to estimate gene flow among westslope cutthroat trout, Oncorhynchus clarkii lewisi, populations and determine the invasion pattern of hybrids between native O. c. lewisi and introduced rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss, in streams of the upper Flathead River system, Montana (USA) and British Columbia (Canada). Fourteen of 31 sites lacked evidence of O. mykiss introgression, and gene flow among these nonhybridized O. c. lewisi populations was low, as indicated by significant allele frequency divergence among populations (θST = 0.076, ρST = 0.094, P < 0.001). Among hybridized sites, O. mykiss admixture declined with upstream distance from a site containing a hybrid swarm with a predominant (92%) O. mykiss genetic contribution. The spatial distribution of hybrid genotypes at seven diagnostic microsatellite loci revealed that O. mykiss invasion is facilitated by both long distance dispersal from this hybrid swarm and stepping-stone dispersal between hybridized populations. This study provides an example of how increased straying rates in the invasive taxon can contribute to the spread of extinction by hybridization and suggests that eradicating sources of introgression may be a useful conservation strategy for protecting species threatened with genomic extinction.
Effects of solar ultraviolet radiation on the behaviour of juvenile coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch): avoidance, feeding, and agonistic interactions
Authors: Holtby L Blair , Bothwell Max L
Published: April 2008

The behaviour of juvenile coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) was observed in outdoor experimental flumes in which three different spectral regimes were created by plastic covers that selectively blocked all or portions of natural ultraviolet radiation (UVR). The three light treatments were (i) photosynthetically active radiation (PAR, 400–700 nm), (ii) PAR plus longer wavelength ultraviolet (PAR + UVA, 320–700 nm), and (iii) full-spectrum sunlight with both long and short wavelength ultraviolet included (PAR + UVA + UVB, 280–700 nm). Observations made at different times of the day and under both overcast and sunny skies allowed an assessment of PAR intensity on behaviour in addition to that of UVR. We quantified shade-seeking behaviour, feeding strikes, and agonistic interactions (approaches, chases, and nips) between individuals. Under higher PAR intensities, a greater proportion of juvenile coho tended to take cover under rocks. Shade-seeking behaviour increased significantly in the presence of UVR. Feeding and agonistic interactions were partially inhibited at higher PAR intensities and very significantly depressed by UVR. For all behaviours tested, the effects were mediated by UVA with no significant additional impacts from UVB. UVR-mediated effects on behaviour could have ecological consequences through influencing summer densities, density-dependent growth, and size-dependent winter and early marine survivals.
ELECTRONIC STRUCTURE AND MAGNETISM OF ErPd2Sn
Authors: JEONG T.
Published: April 2008

The electronic properties of ErPd 2 Sn are studied by band structure calculation based on the density functional theory within LDA, LDA+U, and fully relativistic schemes. When the Coulomb potential is added to the Er 4f orbitals, the degeneracy between the different f orbitals is lifted, and they are split into lower Hubbard bands and upper Hubbard bands. The fully relativistic band structure scheme shows that spin–orbit coupling splits the 4f states into two manifolds, the 4f7/2 and the 4f5/2 multiplet.
Controlled Patterning of Ferroelectric Domains: Fundamental Concepts and Applications
Authors: Li Dongbo , Bonnell Dawn A.
Published: April 2008

Patterning ferroelectric domains to engineer devices is a relatively recent phenomenon. It is practiced on nonlinear optical materials to make micrometer-sized devices and on perovskite-based thin crystals to progress toward memory devices. Such patterning forms the basis of lithographic processing of heterogeneous nanostructures on thin-film oxides and polymers. The fundamental aspects of polarization switching relevant to patterning are summarized, after which the most common methods of patterning ferroelectric compounds are reviewed, with an emphasis on poling mechanisms for each case. Issues related to the stability of domain patterns and limitations on the smallest domain size are discussed. Finally, lithography based on ferroelectric patterning is demonstrated for a number of complex systems.
Methodological Memes and Mores: Toward a Sociology of Social Research
Authors: Leahey Erin
Published: April 2008

A plethora of scholarly research has been conducted on social science: on its organizational and communicative patterns, on the historical development of research standards, and on the diversity of local research practices. But this body of work on the sociology of social research does not hang together in ways that it could, and should, if knowledge is to accumulate. Contributors hail from various fields, subfields, theoretical perspectives, and methodological bents, and there is no extant subfield to join, legitimate, and reinforce their mutual interests. Thus, the aim of this review is not only to summarize themes, identify gaps, and suggest fruitful avenues for future research, but also to serve as a unifying force for scholars interested in studying social science from a sociological perspective. The sociology of social research, far from being a trite exercise in navel-gazing, is critical for the future viability of sociology, for the discipline's legitimacy and autonomy, and for improving social research more generally.
Physiology of the Prion Protein
Authors: Linden Rafael , Martins Vilma R. , Prado Marco A. M. , Cammarota Martín , Izquierdo Iván , Brentani Ricardo R.
Published: April 2008

Prion diseases are transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs), attributed to conformational conversion of the cellular prion protein (PrPC) into an abnormal conformer that accumulates in the brain. Understanding the pathogenesis of TSEs requires the identification of functional properties of PrPC. Here we examine the physiological functions of PrPCat the systemic, cellular, and molecular level. Current data show that both the expression and the engagement of PrPCwith a variety of ligands modulate the following: 1) functions of the nervous and immune systems, including memory and inflammatory reactions; 2) cell proliferation, differentiation, and sensitivity to programmed cell death both in the nervous and immune systems, as well as in various cell lines; 3) the activity of numerous signal transduction pathways, including cAMP/protein kinase A, mitogen-activated protein kinase, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt pathways, as well as soluble non-receptor tyrosine kinases; and 4) trafficking of PrPCboth laterally among distinct plasma membrane domains, and along endocytic pathways, on top of continuous, rapid recycling. A unified view of these functional properties indicates that the prion protein is a dynamic cell surface platform for the assembly of signaling modules, based on which selective interactions with many ligands and transmembrane signaling pathways translate into wide-range consequences upon both physiology and behavior.
Properties of the Glomerular Barrier and Mechanisms of Proteinuria
Authors: Haraldsson Börje , Nyström Jenny , Deen William M.
Published: April 2008

This review focuses on the intricate properties of the glomerular barrier. Other reviews have focused on podocyte biology, mesangial cells, and the glomerular basement membrane (GBM). However, since all components of the glomerular membrane are important for its function, proteinuria will occur regardless of which layer is affected by disease. We review the properties of endothelial cells and their surface layer, the GBM, and podocytes, discuss various methods of studying glomerular permeability, and analyze data concerning the restriction of solutes by size, charge, and shape. We also review the physical principles of transport across biological or artificial membranes and various theoretical models used to predict the fluxes of solutes and water. The glomerular barrier is highly size and charge selective, in qualitative agreement with the classical studies performed 30 years ago. The small amounts of albumin filtered will be reabsorbed by the megalin-cubulin complex and degraded by the proximal tubular cells. At present, there is no unequivocal evidence for reuptake of intact albumin from urine. The cellular components are the key players in restricting solute transport, while the GBM is responsible for most of the resistance to water flow across the glomerular barrier.
Interleukin-18 in Urine and Serum of Children with Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome
Authors: Kiliś-Pstrusińska Katarzyna , Medyńska Anna , Zwolińska Danuta , Wawro Anna
Published: April 2008

Background/Aims: Interleukin (IL)-18, a member of the IL-1 cytokine superfamily, is recognized as an important regulator of immune responses. The aim of our study was to investigate the IL-18 levels in serum and urine from children with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) during relapse and remission, and to evaluate the role of IL-18 in this disease. Methods: 67 children with INS, aged 3–16 years, and 15 normal controls were included in the study. The patients were divided into two groups according to activity of the disease: I (n = 37) – INS in relapse, II (n = 30) – INS in remission. Serum and urinary IL-18 were determined by ELISA and in urine related to the urinary creatinine (Cr) concentration. Serum creatinine, protein, albumin and 24-hour proteinuria were measured in children with INS. Results: Urinary IL-18 concentration was significantly higher in group I (213.51 ± 162.15 pg/mg Cr) compared to group II (64.74 ± 10.95 pg/mg Cr) and to normal controls (37.03 ± 4.1 pg/mg Cr, p < 0.001). Serum IL-18 concentration was significantly higher in group I than in the controls (146.4 ± 30.2 and 113 ± 10 pg/ml, respectively; p < 0.05); the differences between either groups I and II or group II and controls were not significant. Urinary IL-18 correlated positively with serum IL-18 and with urinary protein excretion, but no correlations were found with other laboratory data. Conclusion: Increased serum and urine IL-18 levels were observed during relapse of INS. These findings indicate the association between the active phase of INS and the levels of IL-18 and can suggest the role of this cytokine in the INS development. The changes in urinary IL-18 excretion in the course of INS are connected with the disease activity.