bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relation between age-0 rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) abundance and winter discharge in a regulated river
Authors: Mitro Matthew G , Zale Alexander V , Rich Bruce A
Published: June 2003

We identified and experimentally tested a dischargeabundance relation that predicted, based on the mean river discharge in the second half of winter (15 January  31 March), the spring abundance of age-0 rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in a section of the Henrys Fork of the Snake River, Idaho, with complex bank habitat. We also considered a competing hypothesis in which autumn abundance determined spring abundance. We established that large abundances of age-0 trout were present in autumn (34 000  81 000) and lower abundances remained in spring (8000  15 000). Winter loss of age-0 trout was initiated in January. Spring abundance in 19961998 was related to autumn abundance (r2 > 0.99) and mean discharge in the second half of winter (17.122.8 m3·s1; r2 > 0.99) but not mean discharge in the first half of winter (15.121.1 m3·s1; r2 = 0.11). We experimentally maintained a high discharge (2021 m3·s1) in the second half of winter in 1999 to test model predictions. Autumn abundance failed to predict spring abundance (observed = 11 109; predicted = 6822; 95% prediction interval = 46698975). However, the dischargeabundance model accurately predicted spring abundance (predicted = 11 980; 95% prediction interval = 10 728  13 231). Higher discharge in the second half of winter may have provided more bank habitat at a critical time for survival.
Interactions of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) and trout (Salvelinus fontinalis and Oncorhynchus mykiss) in Vermont tributaries of the Connecticut River
Authors: Raffenberg Matthew J , Parrish Donna L
Published: June 2003

Competitive interactions among stream salmonids in resource-limited environments have been linked to reduced success for many species. Few studies have focused on interactions at scales larger than individual fish or stream reach. We chose to focus our study on these larger scales to provide information for managing species that have complex life histories transcending multiple scales. Our objective was to explore age-0 Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) growth and survival in relation to trout abundance (introduced rainbow (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and native brook (Salvelinus fontinalis) trout) and prey resources at 24 stream reaches across two Vermont watersheds that flow into the Connecticut River. Simple linear and multilinear regressions were conducted on response and predictor variables related to fish and invertebrate prey. Age-0 Atlantic salmon survival was greatest at the site with highest trout abundance; however, no linear relationships to trout abundance were detected possibly because Atlantic salmon growth and survival were highly variable across sites. In contrast, a positive significant multivariate relationship was identified among age-0 Atlantic salmon survival, the abundance of age-1+ brook trout (i.e., 100130 mm), and benthic prey abundance. These results suggest that stocking streams based on trout abundance may not increase Atlantic salmon growth and survival during the first summer of life.
The relation between sediment nutrient content and macrophyte biomass and community structure along a water transparency gradient among lakes of the Mackenzie Delta
Authors: Squires Margaret M , Lesack Lance FW
Published: June 2003

Macrophyte abundance and distribution among lakes of the Mackenzie Delta were assessed where increasing distance from the river (chain set) and increasing frequency of flooding (sill set) corresponded with increasing water transparency. Overall, sediment organic matter (OM) and total nitrogen (TN) content increased with increasing biomass of macrophytes but was higher in the sill set than in the chain set. The amount of phosphorus (P) in sediments was similar among lakes, but pore-water P was appreciably higher in the chain set. Increasing sediment OM and water clarity corresponded with increasing biomass of macrophytes in the lakes. Community structure shifted from dominance by erect Potamogeton at low and intermediate transparency and moderate sediment OM content to low-growing Chara and Ceratophyllum at high transparency and high sediment OM. Similar transparency in the chain set supported greater biomass of macrophytes than in the sill set. A high rate of inorganic sedimentation (linked with frequent flooding) and organic sedimentation (linked with high transparency and plant biomass) may result in the most suitable substrate for the growth of macrophytes among lakes of the Mackenzie Delta. Submersed plant biomass was higher in the Mackenzie Delta lakes than in temperate lakes and comparable to that in the temperate and tropical floodplains, despite the high-latitude location.
Lake Ontario: food web dynamics in a changing ecosystem (19702000)
Authors: Mills E L , Casselman J M , Dermott R , Fitzsimons J D , Gal G , Holeck K T , Hoyle J A , Johannsson O E , Lantry B F , Makarewicz J C , Millard E S , Munawar I F , Munawar M , O'Gorman R , Owens R W , Rudstam L G , Schaner T , Stewart T J
Published: June 2003

We examined stressors that have led to profound ecological changes in the Lake Ontario ecosystem and its fish community since 1970. The most notable changes have been reductions in phosphorus loading, invasion by Dreissena spp., fisheries management through stocking of exotic salmonids and control of sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus), and fish harvest by anglers and double-crested cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus). The response to these stressors has led to (i) declines in both algal photosynthesis and epilimnetic zooplankton production, (ii) decreases in alewife (Alosa pseudoharengus) abundance, (iii) declines in native Diporeia and lake whitefish (Coregonus clupeaformis), (iv) behavioral shifts in alewife spatial distribution benefitting native lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush), threespine stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus), and emerald shiner (Notropis atherinoides) populations, (v) dramatic increases in water clarity, (vi) predation impacts by cormorants on select fish species, and (vii) lake trout recruitment bottlenecks associated with alewife-induced thiamine deficiency. We expect stressor responses associated with anthropogenic forces like exotic species invasions and global climate warming to continue to impact the Lake Ontario ecosystem in the future and recommend continuous long-term ecological studies to enhance scientific understanding and management of this important resource.
Early juvenile bioenergetic differences between anadromous and resident brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis)
Authors: Morinville Geneviève R , Rasmussen Joseph B
Published: June 2003

Many salmonids, including brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis), contain both anadromous (migrant) and nonanadromous (resident) forms within a population (partial migration). Although partial migration is commonly observed, the mechanisms governing the adoption of migration or residency are poorly understood. We used field estimates of fish growth coupled with in situ estimates of food consumption rates to demonstrate that a trade-off exists between the ability to efficiently exploit local environments (resident approach) and the capacity to capitalize from large-scale environmental heterogeneity (migrant approach). We demonstrate that in the year before migration, migrant brook trout have consumption rates 1.4 times higher than those of resident brook trout. However, migrants have lower growth efficiencies (ratio of growth to consumption) than residents, indicating that migrants have higher metabolic costs. Residents and migrants also differed in their stable carbon isotope signatures (δ13C), a time-integrated measure that has been linked to habitat use. Fish muscle δ13C of migrants was depleted by 1 ± 0.1 compared with that of residents, and this could not be explained by any biases introduced by the time of sampling or the size of fish sampled. Our findings thus agree with the notion that a link exists between metabolic costs (efficiency) and the adopted life-history strategy.
Differential reproductive success of sympatric, naturally spawning hatchery and wild steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) through the adult stage
Authors: McLean Jennifer E , Bentzen Paul , Quinn Thomas P
Published: June 2003

We used multilocus microsatellite analysis to compare the reproductive success of naturally spawning wild steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) with a newly established sympatric hatchery population in Forks Creek, Washington, U.S.A. Hatchery steelhead spawning in the wild had markedly lower reproductive success than native wild steelhead. Wild females that spawned in 1996 produced 9 times as many adult offspring per capita as did hatchery females that spawned in the wild. Wild females that spawned in 1997 produced 42 times as many adult offspring as hatchery females. The wild steelhead population more than met replacement requirements (approximately 3.76.7 adult offspring were produced per female), but the hatchery steelhead were far below replacement requirements (<0.5 adults per female). The survival differential was greatest in the freshwater environment (i.e., production of seaward-migrating juveniles), but survival at sea favored the hatchery population in 1 year and the wild population in the next. The poor performance of the hatchery population may be a consequence of spawning too early in the winter, generations of inadvertent domestication selection, or a combination of these two.
Investigations into the systemic production of aldehyde-derived peroxidation products in a murine model of acute iron poisoning: a dose response study
Authors: Leung Vanessa , Bartfay Wally
Published: June 2003

Acute iron poisoning remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in pre-school aged children in North America. Acute iron poisoning leads to organ damage, such as respiratory difficulties, cardiac arrhythmias, and possible death. The mechanism of iron toxicity is not fully understood, though it is thought that free iron is able to catalyze the production of harmful oxygen free radicals, which can damage all biochemical classes including lipid membranes, proteins, and DNA. Accordingly, we hypothesized that acute iron loading results in dose-dependent increases in oxygen free radical production, as quantified by the cytotoxic aldehydes hexanal, 4-hydroxynonenal, and malondialdehyde, in an experimental murine model. In support of our hypothesis, significant dose-dependent increases in all aldehydes investigated were reported in comparison to controls (p < 0.001). This murine model will assist in providing a better understanding of possible mechanism(s) of injury and organ dysfunction following acute iron poisoning, and for the development and evaluation of treatment regimes.Key words: iron poisoning, free radicals, aldehydes, Desferal, murine model.
Inhibitory actions of eugenol on rat isolated ileum
Authors: Leal-Cardoso José H , Lahlou Saad , Coelho-de-Souza Andrelina N , Criddle David N , Pinto Duarte Glória I.B , Santos Marcia A.V , Magalhães Pedro J.C
Published: June 2003

The effects of eugenol (12000 μM) on rat isolated ileum were studied. Eugenol relaxed the basal tonus (IC50 83 μM) and the ileum precontracted with 60 mM KCl (IC50 162 μM), an action unaltered by 0.5 μM tetrodotoxin, 0.2 mM NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, 0.5 mM hexamethonium, and 1 μM indomethacin. Eugenol did not alter the resting transmembrane potential (Em) of the longitudinal muscle layer under normal conditions (5.0 mM K+) or in depolarised tissues. Eugenol reversibly inhibited contractions induced by submaximal concentrations of acetylcholine (ACh) and K+ (40 mM) with IC50 values of approximately 228 and 237 μM, respectively. Eugenol blocked the component of ACh-induced contraction obtained in Ca2+-free solution (0.2 mM EGTA) or in the presence of nifedipine (1 μM). Our results suggest that eugenol induces relaxation of rat ileum by a direct action on smooth muscle via a mechanism largely independent of alterations of Em and extracellular Ca2+ influx.Key words: essential oil, eugenol, ileum, smooth muscle, antispasmodic.
Heart rate variability and electrocardiogram waveform as predictors of morbidity during hypothermia and rewarming in rats
Authors: Matthew C B , Bastille A M , Gonzalez R R , Sils I V
Published: June 2003

This study examined electrocardiogram (ECG) waveform, heart rate (HR), mean blood pressure (BP), and HR variability as potential autonomic signatures of hypothermia and rewarming. Adult male SpragueDawley rats had telemetry transmitters surgically implanted, and 2 weeks were allowed for recovery prior to induction of hypothermia. Rats were lightly anesthetized (sodium pentobarbital, 35 mg/kg i.p.) and placed in a coil of copper tubing through which temperature-controlled water was circulated. Animals were cooled to a core temperature (Tc) of 20°C, maintained there for 30 min, and then rewarmed. Data (Tc, BP, HR from ECG, and 10-s strips of ECG waveforms) were collected every 5 min throughout hypothermia and rewarming. Both HR and BP declined after initial increases with the drop in HR starting at a higher Tc than the drop in BP (29.6 ± 2.4°C vs. 27.1 ± 3.3°C, p < 0.05). Animals that were not successfully rewarmed exhibited a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the normalized standard deviation of interbeat intervals (IBI) throughout cooling compared with animals that were successfully rewarmed. The T wave of the ECG increased in amplitude and area with decreasing Tc. T-wave amplitude and IBI variability show potential as predictors of survival in hypothermic victims.Key words: hypothermia, rewarming, heart rate variability, ECG, blood pressure.
DISTRIBUTED AMPLIFIER FOR FIBER-OPTIC COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS
Authors: SHIGEMATSU H. , SATO M. , TAKECHI M. , TAKAHASHI T. , HIROSE T.
Published: June 2003

We have developed distributed amplifiers for high bit-rate fiber-optic communication systems. We have designed a LiNbO 3 modulator driver using 0.15-μm double-doped AlGaAs/InGaAs/AlGaAs pseudomorphic HEMTs. We obtained a 15-dB gain and 54-GHz bandwidth with GCPW lines, and a fairly clear 6-Vp-p output at 40 Gb/s. We also developed preamplifiers for both NRZ and NRZ applications. Our preamplifier for the NRZ-data format has a 52-dBΩ gain and a 49-GHz bandwidth. It consists of a lumped element circuit and a distributed amplifier with InP-based HEMTS. We fabricated a module that consisted of the preamplifier connected to a photodiode, and confirmed a clear NRZ-output waveform at 40-Gb/s. The preamplifier with 0.15-μm double-doped AlGaAs/lnGaAs/AlGaAs pseudomorphic HEMTs for the RZ-data format has an 11-dB gain and a 57-GHz bandwidth. We also developed a PIN/preamp module that has a 44-dBΩ gain and a 45-GHz bandwidth. The module showed a superior phase characteristic and produced a clear RZ eye-pattern. Furthermore, we fabricated an ultra-broadband amplifier for over-40-Gb/s applications. We obtained a 9-dB gain and 70-GHz bandwidth. These results demonstrate that a distributed amplifier is the best candidate for over-40-Gb/s fiber optic communication systems.manuscript.
The InP-HEMT IC Technology for 40-Gbit/s Optical Communications
Authors: YAMANE YASURO , MURATA KOICHI
Published: June 2003

We present the outline of the InP HEMT IC technology. This technology realizes InP HEMT digital ICs for 40-Gbit/s optical fiber communication systems through the integration of 0.1-μm-gate-length HEMTs, vertical diodes, capacitors, and WSiN resistors with two level interconnections. This paper describes the high-speed digital IC circuit design and fabrication in InP HEMT technology for 40-Gbit/s/channel optical communication systems. Some results on InP HEMTs' reliability are also covered. Basic circuit design techniques utilizing SCFL topology and fundamental circuit elements of the selector and D-type flip-flop are discussed in detail. The basic digital ICs of MUX, D-FF, and DEMUX ICs fabricated with 0.1-μm-gate InP HEMTs successfully operated up to 50 Gbit/s in the packaged modules. These IC modules offer large speed margins for the 43-Gbit/s OTU-3 data rate. In order to develop cost-effective optical transmitters and receivers, we designed a PLL-based CDR with a full-rate architecture. The fully monolithic integrated CDR exhibited error-free operation for 231-1 PRBS data signal at the OTU-3 bit rate of 43.0184 Gbit/s. Four-bit MUX and DEMUX ICs are other key components, and could be implemented by using InP HEMT technology. Additionally, we describe InP-IC fabrication technology with two-level inter-connection. This is already fully matured for 40-Gbit/s SSI fabrication. The uniform FET characteristics and high-yield passive component fabrication technologies support this degree of maturity. InP HEMT lifetime is 107 hours at l00°C. These results prove the InP HEMT IC fabrication technology presented here, to be highly reliable. These investigation show that robust performance and yield when realizing SSI and MSI 40-Gbit/s functions.
HIGH-SPEED, LOW-POWER DIGITAL AND ANALOG CIRCUITS IMPLEMENTED IN IBM SiGe BiCMOS TECHNOLOGY
Authors: FRITZ KARL E. , RANDALL BARBARA A. , FOKKEN GREGG J. , DEGERSTROM MICHAEL J. , LORSUNG MICHAEL J. , PRAIRIE JASON F. , AMUNDSEN ERIC L. H. , SCHREIBER SHAUN M. , GILBERT BARRY K. , GREENBERG DAVID R. , JOSEPH ALVIN
Published: June 2003

Under the auspices of Defense Advanced Research Project Agency's Microsystems Technology Office (DARPA/MTO) Low Power Electronics Program, the Mayo Foundation Special Purpose Processor Development Group is exploring ways to reduce circuit power consumption, while maintaining or increasing functionality, for existing military systems. Applications presently being studied include all-digital radar receivers, electronic warfare receivers, and other types of digital signal processors. One of the integrated circuit technologies currently under investigation to support such military systems is the IBM Corporation silicon germanium (SiGe) BiCMOS process. In this paper, design methodology, simulations and test results from demonstration circuits developed for these applications and implemented in the IBM SiGe BiCMOS 5HP (50 GHz fT HBTs with 0.5 μm CMOS) and 7HP (120 GHz fT HBTs with 0.18 μm CMOS) technologies will be presented.
RADIATION EFFECTS IN HIGH SPEED III-V INTEGRATED CIRCUITS
Authors: WEATHERFORD TODD R.
Published: June 2003

The types of applications affected by radiation effects in III-V devices have significantly changed over the last four decades. For most applications III-V ICs have provided sufficient radiation hardness. Some expectations for hardened soft error applications did not materialize until much later. Years of research defined that not only material properties, but device structures, layout practices and circuit design influenced how III-V devices were susceptible to certain radiation effects. The highest performance III-V ICs due to their low power-speed energy products will provide challenges in ionizing radiation environments from sea level to space.
RELIABILITY AND RADIATION HARDNESS OF COMPOUND SEMICONDUCTORS
Authors: KAYALI SAMMY A. , JOHNSTON ALLAN H.
Published: June 2003

A thorough understanding of reliability and radiation hardness is required in order to use compound semiconductors in space, or in other environments involving radiation and/or extended temperature operation. This paper discusses those issues for several types of compound semiconductors that are of interest for high-performance applications.
A SHORT NOTE ON MULTIPLIER IDEAL SHEAVES ON SINGULAR VARIETIES
Authors: WESSLER MARKUS
Published: June 2003

In this short note we discuss some properties of multiplier ideal sheaves on singular varieties, for example, in how far they are compatible with fibre products.
CANONICAL BÄCKLUND TRANSFORMATION FOR A DISCRETE INTEGRABLE CHAIN AND ITS ASSOCIATED PROPERTIES
Authors: GHOSE CHOUDHURY A. , KHANRA BARUN , ROY CHOWDHURY A.
Published: June 2003

The concept of a canonical Bäcklund transformation as laid down by Sklyanin is extended to a discrete integral chain, with a Poisson structure which is not canonical in the strict sense. The transformation is induced by an auxiliary Lax operator with a classical r-matrix which is similar in its algebraic structure to that of the original Lax operator governing the dynamics of the chain. Moreover, the transformation can be obtained from a suitable generating function. It is also shown how successive transformations can be composed to construct a new transformation. Finally an inverse transformation is also constructed. The compatibility of the transformation with the "time" part of the Lax equation is explicitly demonstrated. It is also shown that the Bianchi theorem of permutability holds good.
EFFECTIVE SUPERPOTENTIALS FOR SO/Sp WITH FLAVOR FROM MATRIX MODELS
Authors: OOKOUCHI YUTAKA , WATABIKI YOSHIYUKI
Published: June 2003

We study matrix models related to SO/Sp gauge theories with flavors. We give the effective superpotentials for gauge theories with arbitrary tree level superpotential up to first instanton level. For quartic tree level superpotential, we obtained exact one-cut solution. We also derive Seiberg–Witten curve for these gauge theories from matrix model argument.
BASIC TWIST QUANTIZATION OF osp(1|2) AND κ-DEFORMATION OF D = 1 SUPERCONFORMAL MECHANICS
Authors: BOROWIEC A. , LUKIERSKI J. , TOLSTOY V. N.
Published: June 2003

The twisting function describing a nonstandard (super-Jordanian) quantum deformation of osp (1|2) is given in explicit closed form. The quantum coproducts and universal R-matrix are presented. The non-uniqueness of the twisting function as well as two real forms of the deformed osp (1|2) superalgebras are considered. One real quantum osp (1|2) superalgebra is interpreted as describing the κ-deformation of D = 1, N = 1 superconformal algebra, which can be applied as a symmetry algebra of N = 1 superconformal mechanics.
THE CONTRIBUTION OF THE LIGHT QUARK CONDENSATE TO THE πN SIGMA TERM
Authors: GIBBS W. R.
Published: June 2003

There has been a discrepancy between values of the pion-nucleon sigma term extracted by two different methods for many years. Analysis of recent high precision pion-nucleon data has widened the gap between the two determinations. It is argued that the two extractions correspond to different quantities and that the difference between them can be understood and calculated.
Crystallographic study of PtCl2(C2H3O2)2(C6H13N)(NH3) by Rietveld refinement
Authors: Zeng Lingmin , Chen Liangwei , Pu Shaoping , Yang Yikun , Gao Wenggui , Yu Yao
Published: June 2003

X-ray powder diffraction data for the anticancer drug PtCl2(C2H3O2)2(C6H13N)(NH3) are reported. The crystal structure of PtCl2(C2H3O2)2(C6H13N)(NH3) obtained from a Rietveld refinement are: space group P21/a, a=13.547(2) Å, b=8.260(1) Å, c=14.638(3) Å, β=110.429(2)°, V=1534.96 Å3, Z=4 and Dcalc.=2.068 Mg/m3.
X-ray powder diffraction data for ammonium D-gluconate, C6H11O7−NH4+
Authors: Labuschagné F. J. W. J. , Verryn S. M. C. , Focke W. W.
Published: June 2003

The compound ammonium D-gluconate (C6H11O7−NH4+) has been studied by X-ray powder diffraction. The powder diffraction pattern and data obtained at room temperature are presented (cell data and powder data summary).
Interaction between Attention Demanding Motor and Cognitive Tasks and Static Postural Stability
Authors: Weeks D.L. , Forget R. , Mouchnino L. , Gravel D. , Bourbonnais D.
Published: June 2003

Background: Due to the often-reported decrease in postural stability in the elderly, it is important to understand factors that may contribute to reduced postural stability. It is possible that attention-demanding focal tasks performed concurrent with postural regulation influence postural stability. Objective: This study utilized dual-task methodology to determine if motor or cognitive focal tasks interact with center of pressure (COP) excursion during static bipedal stance in healthy young and healthy elderly subjects (n = 18). Methods: The cognitive task involved silently solving an orally-presented multi-step arithmetic problem over a 30-second period. The motor task was a 30-second bilateral static finger-thumb pinch task performed at 10% of maximal voluntary contraction with a pair of pinch-force transducers. Each focal task was performed separately, and in a condition in which both tasks were performed simultaneously. COP excursion was compared in quiet standing (no focal task) and during performance of the focal tasks with full vision and with vision occluded. Results: Performance on the focal tasks was unaffected by increased postural demands during stance as compared to a seated baseline condition. This was the case for both age groups, and for the full vision and occluded vision conditions. Medio-lateral COP excursion was reduced over the quiet standing pretest condition when attentional focus was on the cognitive task, suggesting that COP was influenced centrally during cognition. In contrast, COP excursion increased over the quiet standing pretest condition when performing the motor focal task, suggesting a reduced ability to suppress sway when the motor system was concurrently occupied with a voluntary task that shared the same input-output resources. Conclusion: The ability to share attentional resources among focal and postural tasks was similar in healthy young and elderly subjects.
The Current Availability of Neurological In-Patient Services in Post-Communist Central and Eastern European Countries
Authors: Herzig Roman , Kalvach Pavel , Petkova Valentina , Vuković Vlasta , Tsakadze Nina L. , Bereczki Daniel , Tuta Sorin , Martiníková Martina , Rot Uroš , Xhaxho Sokrat , Sidorovich Emiliya , Rand Viiu-Marika , Zaborski Jacek , Gavriliuc Mihail , Reminyak Inna V.
Published: June 2003

Background and Purpose: Limited information can be obtained as to the availability of neurological in-patient services in the former communist countries of Eastern and Central Europe. The objective was to analyse data received directly from representatives of the particular countries. Methods: The data were collected under the auspices of the ‘First European Cooperation Neurology Workshop’ held in April 2000, in Třešť, Czech Republic. Neurologists from 15 post-communist countries provided information from their respective countries. Linear trends in graphs including the reliability value R2 were used in the analysis of correlations. Results: Data from 14 countries were assembled and trends were analysed. Conclusions: Direct relationships were found between: (1) the average department size and the average catchment area (R2 = 0.1015); (2) the percentage of districts with a neurological in-patient department and the gross national product (GNP) per capita (R2 = 0.1359); (3) the average neurological department size and the GNP per capita (R2 = 0.1135), and (4) the average length of treatment and the number of neurological beds/100,000 inhabitants (R2 = 0.1745). Inverse relationships were found between: (1) the number of neurological beds/100,000 inhabitants and the average hospital catchment area (R2 = 0.2105), and (2) the number of neurological beds/100,000 inhabitants and the GNP per capita (R2 = 0.1144).
Subchondral Bone Resorption in Temporomandibular Joint Disorders
Authors: Gruber Helen E. , Gregg John
Published: June 2003

Several tissues are involved in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) health, including synovial fluid, the TMJ disc, articular cartilage, and subchondral bone. This article focuses upon bone resorption in temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) and has the following objectives: (1) to provide a brief review of the current understanding of bone formation and bone resorption (bone remodeling); (2) to present selected case studies which illustrate the spectrum of bone resorption patterns in TMD patients of various ages; (3) to review previous reports in the literature describing loss of subchondral bone in TMD, and (4) to discuss the interaction between osteoporosis and TMD and the potential role for antiresorbing agents in TMD therapy.
Evaluation of Quality in Patient-Controlled Analgesia Provided by an Acute Pain Service
Authors: Karcı A. , Taşdöğen A. , Erkin Y. , Şahinöz B. , Kara H. , Elar Z.
Published: June 2003

Institutions with quality management programs need to evaluate the quality of perioperative pain management as well as other aspects of the health service. With the development of anesthesia-based pain services, improvement in this field has been reported. In this prospective study performed in a university hospital, we used a Postoperative Pain Therapy Assessment Questionnaire to quantify the effectiveness of pain therapy and factors affecting the degree of satisfaction and also to pinpoint areas that need improvement. A total of 915 patients who received patient-controlled analgesia for postoperative pain were included in the study; it seems to be the largest patient population from a single hospital. Data were collected as part of the hospital’s quality improvement activities. By analyzing the questionnaires, we found that patients were satisfied with the pain therapy performed under the guidance of anesthesiologists, but predictors of satisfaction such as pain intensity and side effects (nausea, vomiting, constipation and difficulty in walking) decreased patient satisfaction considerably. Patients are aware of the fact that health care givers take postoperative care seriously and they do not want any untoward effects interrupting their postoperative care. They are trying to participate in the decision making and also to learn more about pain medicine.
Changing Antiglaucoma Therapy from Timolol to Betaxolol: Effect on Ocular Blood Flow
Authors: Rainer Georg , Dorner Guido T. , Garhöfer Gerhard , Vass Clemens , Pfleger Thomas , Schmetterer Leopold
Published: June 2003

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of a therapy change from timolol to betaxolol on ocular blood flow in patients with open-angle glaucoma. This randomized double-blind study comprised 34 consecutive patients with open-angle glaucoma, already treated with either timolol alone or in combination with other antiglaucoma agents. The patients were randomly allocated to receive either betaxolol (n = 17) or timolol (n = 17) instead of the present timolol drops. Additional antiglaucoma therapy remained unchanged. The retinal blood flow was assessed by scanning laser Doppler flowmetry and the pulsatile choroidal blood flow was assessed by laser interferometric measurement of fundus pulsation amplitude. Ocular blood flow measurement as well as systemic hemodynamic and intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements were performed at baseline and 1 week and 1 and 3 months after the therapy change. Visual field testing was performed at baseline and at 3 months. After 3 months of treatment with either timolol or betaxolol, neither the retinal nor the pulsatile choroidal blood flow were significantly altered. The power to detect a 9% change in pulsatile choroidal blood flow and a 20% change in retinal blood flow in the present study was 90%. The IOP was not significantly altered in either group. In contrast, visual fields slightly improved after betaxolol treatment compared to baseline (p = 0.047), but this effect was not significant versus timolol. Changing therapy from timolol to betaxolol has no effect on ocular blood flow in patients with open-angle glaucoma.
Age- and Gender-Related Differences in Human Lacrimal Fluid Peroxidase Activity
Authors: Marcozzi Giordana , Liberati Veronica , Madia Federica , Centofanti Marco , de Feo Giuseppe
Published: June 2003

There is evidence to suggest that estrogen influences lacrimal fluid peroxidase activity in women. In this study we investigated changes in peroxidase activity related to ageing and gender. These changes might help to explain the common problem of dry-eye syndrome in menopausal women. Unstimulated tears were collected from 70 healthy subjects of both sexes (age range 24–90 years). Tear samples were collected from 9 to 10 a.m., when peroxidase activity remained stable. In women, lacrimal fluid peroxidase activity decreased significantly during the menopause (p < 0.05 by one-way ANOVA), and thereafter remained unchanged. Conversely, in men, lacrimal fluid peroxidase activity decreased later, declining significantly only towards the age of 80 (p < 0.05). Lacrimal fluid peroxidase activity differs in men and women: the gender-related difference accentuates during ageing, probably owing to changing estrogen levels.
Discrimination of Functionally Referential Calls by Laboratory-Housed Rhesus Macaques: Implications for Neuroethological Studies
Authors: Gifford, III Gordon W. , Hauser Marc D. , Cohen Yale E.
Published: June 2003

Prior to examining the neural correlates of auditory cognition with ethologically relevant stimuli, it is first necessary to establish that laboratory-housed animals respond to these stimuli with species-typical responses. Here, we report the results of experiments on laboratory-housed rhesus monkeys using both species-typical vocalizations and band-pass noise. Paralleling the approach used in field studies of this species, we used a habituation-discrimination paradigm in which auditory stimuli were presented and a monkey’s orienting responses to the stimuli were quantified. In parallel with the results obtained in field studies, we found that laboratory-housed rhesus classified species-typical vocalizations according to their putative referent properties as opposed to similarities in their acoustic morphology. In control experiments, monkeys oriented to band-pass noise but did not categorize differences in the spectral composition of the noise stimuli. These findings support the hypothesis that laboratory-housed rhesus classify, in the absence of training, species-typical vocalizations in a manner comparable to rhesus monkeys living under more natural conditions. As such, species-typical vocalizations are an appropriate and necessary class of stimuli in experiments that explore the neural correlates of auditory cognition in rhesus monkeys from a neuroethological perspective.
Enhancement of Cell Viability in Cryopreserved Rat Vascular Grafts by Administration of Regenerating Gene (Reg) Inducers
Authors: Kiji Tatsuya , Dohi Yoshiko , Nishizaki Kazuhiko , Takasawa Shin , Okamoto Hiroshi , Nagasaka Shigeo , Naito Hiroshi , Yonemasu Kunio , Taniguchi Shigeki
Published: June 2003

The regenerative capacity of viable cells remaining in cryopreserved vascular allografts is still unclear. Recently, the regenerating gene (Reg) has been documented to play an important role in various regenerating tissues. Here we show the possibility of Reg induction for the enhancement of cryopreserved vascular allograft viability. Cryopreserved rat aortae were isografted or allografted heterotopically. Fresh isografts were also tested. The transplants were retrieved 3, 6, 9, and 12 days after implantation and the intragraft Reg mRNA was measured by a real-time quantitative reverse transcriptional polymerase chain reaction method. Reg expression was not detected before implantation. Reg expression in cryopreserved isografts gradually increased after transplantation, whereas in fresh isografts or cryopreserved allografts it decreased over time after initial expression. Daily administration of 0.5 g/kg nicotinamide (an agent known to be a potent inducer of Reg) induced intragraft Reg mRNA in cryopreserved allografts (p < 0.05) accompanied by augmentation of the intragraft cell population. Daily administration of 0.5 mg/kg FK506 (an immunosuppressant) induced intragraft Reg mRNA both in cryopreserved isografts and allografts (p < 0.01). We conclude that Reg-inductive therapy shows promise as a novel strategy for enhancing the viability of vascular allografts. Moreover, FK506 may be involved in tissue regeneration as well as immunosuppression.
Requisite Role of p38 MAPK in Mural Cell Recruitment during Angiogenesis in the Rat Aorta Model
Authors: Zhu Wen-Hui , Han Jiahuai , Nicosia Roberto Francesco
Published: June 2003

During the early stage of angiogenesis, neovascular sprouts are composed primarily of endothelial cells. As they mature, microvessels acquire a coating of mural cells, which are critical for the development and maintenance of a functional vasculature. Though growth factor regulation of mural cell recruitment has been extensively investigated, the intracellular signaling events involved in this process remain poorly understood. Among the intracellular kinases implicated in angiogenesis, the p38 MAPK has been shown to transduce signals critical for vascular remodeling and maturation. The rat aorta model of angiogenesis was used to further investigate the role of this signaling pathway in the recruitment of mural cells during angiogenesis. The p38 MAPK inhibitor SB203580 selectively blocked mural cell recruitment, resulting in the formation of naked endothelial tubes without mural cells. SB203580 inhibited angiopoietin-1-induced mural cell recruitment without influencing angiopoietin-1-stimulated endothelial sprouting. Adenoviral vector-mediated expression of a dominant negative form of p38 MAPK significantly reduced mural cell recruitment, whereas overexpression of a constitutively activated form of MKK6, an upstream activator of p38 MAPK, increased mural cell number. These results indicate that the p38 MAPK signaling pathway plays a critical role in mural cell recruitment during neovascularization and may represent a therapeutic target in angiogenesis-related disorders.
Conducted Vasoconstriction Is Reduced in a Mouse Model of Sepsis
Authors: Lidington Darcy , Ouellette Yves , Li Fuyan , Tyml Karel
Published: June 2003

The ability of an arteriole to conduct vasomotor responses along its length contributes to the control of organ perfusion. Sepsis, a systemic inflammatory response to infection, may compromise this control. We aimed to determine whether sepsis, induced by cecal ligation and perforation (CLP), reduces conducted vasoconstriction 24 h post-CLP. We locally stimulated mouse cremaster arterioles with KCl, measured the resulting local and the conducted constriction (500 µm upstream) and, based on these measurements, determined the communication ratio (CR500) as an index of the conducted response. Sepsis significantly reduced the CR500 from 0.75 to 0.20. Based on a mathematical model, this reduction was predicted to have a significant impact on blood flow control. In septic mice, either a 1-hour washout of the cremaster muscle with physiological saline or a treatment of this muscle with the tyrosine kinase inhibitor PP-2 (100 nM) restored the CR500 to the control level. Treatment of septic arterioles with the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (100 µM) partially restored the CR500 from 0.2 to 0.4. In control mice, lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 10 µg/ml) superfused over the cremaster muscle for 1 h reduced the CR500; the nitric oxide (NO) donor S-nitroso-N-acetyl-penicillamine (50 µM) also reduced the CR500. Thus, LPS and NO could be two factors mediating reduced conduction of vasoconstriction in sepsis. We conclude that sepsis reduces the KCl-induced conducted vasoconstriction in the mouse cremaster muscle by a tyrosine kinase- and nitric oxide- dependent mechanism.
Attenuation of Canine Cerebral Vasospasm after Subarachnoid Hemorrhage by Protein Kinase C Inhibitors despite Augmented Phosphorylation of Myosin Light Chain
Authors: Nishizawa Shigeru , Obara Kazuo , Koide Masayo , Nakayama Koichi , Ohta Seiji , Yokoyama Tetsuo
Published: June 2003

The purpose of the present study is to assess the roles of protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms, especially PKCδ and α, and 20-kD myosin light chain (MLC20) phosphorylation in the mechanism of cerebral vasospasm following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). We had shown that those PKC isoforms are involved in the development of cerebral vasospasm. Using PKC isoform-specific inhibitors in a ‘two- hemorrhage’ canine model, we examined changes in the development of cerebral vasospasm, translocation of PKC isoforms and MLC20 phosphorylation level in canine basilar arteries. A PKC inhibitor (5 µM rottlerin for PKCδ or chelerythrine for PKCα) was injected into the cisterna magna on day 4 before the second hemorrhage. The treatment was continued daily until day 7. Rottlerin inhibited the initial phase of vasospasm and PKCδ translocation, but did not significantly inhibit PKCα translocation. Chelerythrine inhibited cerebral vasospasm, and the translocation of both PKCδ and α throughout the entire course of the study. Although cerebral vasospasm after SAH was inhibited by each PKC inhibitor, the MLC20 phosphorylation level remained elevated as in the untreated hemorrhage-control study. We conclude that cerebral vasospasm following SAH depends on PKCδ and α, while the enhancement of MLC20 phosphorylation contributes little to this form of vasospasm.
A Systematic Review of Single-Session Psychological Interventions (‘Debriefing’) following Trauma
Authors: Rose Suzanna , Bisson Jonathan , Wessely Simon
Published: June 2003

Background: Single-session psychological interventions such as psychological debriefing have become widely used following traumatic events. The evidence for their effectiveness has been widely debated. This review aimed to consider the evidence for the effectiveness of one-off early interventions within 1 month of a traumatic event. Methods: A systematic review using the standard Cochrane Collaboration methodology. Literature searches of various databases were performed to identify randomised controlled trials. The methodological quality of the studies identified was determined using standard measures, and the results were pooled to consider the overall evidence for effectiveness. Results: Eleven randomised controlled trials were found, all of individual or couple interventions. Three studies associated the intervention with a positive outcome, 6 demonstrated no difference in outcome between intervention and non-intervention groups and 2 showed some negative outcomes in the intervention group (these studies had the longest follow-up periods). The methodological quality of the studies varied widely, but was generally poor. This review suggests that early optimism for brief early psychological interventions including debriefing was misplaced and that it should not be advocated for routine use. There remains an urgent need for randomised controlled trials of group debriefing and other early interventions.
Fehlbildungen des äusseren und inneren Genitales
Authors: Anthuber Sabine , Strauss A. , Anthuber C. , Hepp H.
Published: June 2003

Die gynäkologische Untersuchung von Kindern und Jugendlichen gehört in spezialisierte Hände und sollte in kindgerechter Umgebung erfolgen. Eine ihrer wichtigsten Aufgaben ist die Trennung von vermeintlichen und echten Fehlbildungen. Die Chance hierzu kann bereits beim neugeborenen Mädchen ohne grösseren Aufwand genutzt werden. Meist reicht bereits die Inspektion, später werden Vaginoskopie und gynäkologische Spiegeluntersuchung erforderlich. Weiterführende Massnahmen sind die Abdominalsonographie und die Kernspintomographie. Zu den vermeintlichen Fehlbildungen gehört die Synechie der kleinen Labien, die Pseudohymenalatresie, die Pseudoklitorishypertrophie und die Pseudotumore des äusseren Genitales (z.B. die Harnröhrenkarunkel). Die wichtigste asymptomatische Anlagestörung von Vagina und Uterus ist das Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser-Syndrom (Uterus- und Vaginalaplasie). Zu den symptomatischen Verschlussfehlbildungen zählen die Hymenalatresie, das Vaginalseptum und die Doppelanlagen von Uterus und Vagina, bei denen eine Seite verschlossen sein kann. Letztere können zu einem Aufstau von Menstrualblut und damit zu einem Hemihämatokolpos und einer Hämatometra führen. Die Behandlung der genannten Fehlbildungen ist oft einfach, erfordert dennoch viel Erfahrung.
Epitope Mapping of Monoclonal Antibodies Directed to Aminopeptidase A and Their Relevance for Albuminuria in Mice
Authors: Gerlofs-Nijland Miriam E. , Assmann Karel J.M. , van Son Jacco P.H.F. , Dijkman Henry B.P.M. , te Loeke Nathalie A.J.M. , van der Zee Ruurd , Wetzels Jack F.M. , Groenen Patricia J.T.A.
Published: June 2003

We have shown previously that injection of specific combinations of anti-aminopeptidase A monoclonal antibodies induces an acute massive albuminuria in mice. This albuminuria is neither dependent on systemic mediators of inflammation nor angiotensin II. In this study, we examined the contribution of two individual antibodies, the enzyme-inhibiting antibody ASD-37 and the non-enzyme-inhibiting antibody ASD-41, in the induction of albuminuria as well as the interactions between these two monoclonals. In addition, we have mapped the epitopes of both antibodies using in vitro coupled transcription/translation of specifically designed cDNA fragments followed by immunoprecipitation, and using peptide enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in case of a continuous epitope. A single intravenous injection of 4 mg of either ASD-37 or ASD-41 did not induce albuminuria. This dose of ASD-37 did not completely inhibit enzyme activity. The combination of 4 mg ASD-37/41 (1:1 weight ratio) induced albuminuria and almost completely inhibited enzyme activity. Similar results were obtained with a combination of ASD-37/41 in a 1:39 or 39:1 weight ratio. Administration of 2 mg ASD-41 24 h before injection of 2 mg ASD-37 significantly enhanced albuminuria. The epitope of ASD-37 is located at the C-terminal end of aminopeptidase A, whereas the ASD-41 epitope is mapped near the enzyme active site. Our data suggest that ASD-41 modulates the binding of ASD-37 to its epitope and/or vice versa. As a consequence, ASD-37 and ASD-41 act synergistically, not only in inhibiting enzyme activity but also in inducing albuminuria.
Effects of Oral Bexarotene (Targretin®) on the Minimal Erythema Dose for Broadspectrum UVB Light
Authors: Smit J.V. , de Jong E.M.G.J. , van de Kerkhof P.C.M.
Published: June 2003

Photo(chemo)therapy and oral retinoid therapy for psoriasis or cutaneous T-cell lymphoma are frequently combined to obtain an enhanced therapeutic effect with lower safety risks. Bexarotene, a new RXR-selective retinoid (rexinoid), has been developed for the treatment of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma and has recently been investigated in the treatment of psoriasis. In the present study the UV-modulating properties of bexarotene were evaluated by assessment of the minimal erythema dose (MED) for UVB light. In 11 patients participating in a phase II study of oral bexarotene 0.5 mg/kg/day (7 patients) or 3.0 mg/kg/day (4 patients) for plaque-type psoriasis, MED tests were performed on uninvolved psoriatic skin on the lower back of the subjects before and after 12-week treatment. Clinical scores of erythema and determination of the MED 24 h after irradiation did not show statistically significant changes between the exposed areas before and after bexarotene treatment or between the two doses tested. No photosensitizing reactions were observed. This study demonstrates that a single exposure to UVB irradiation is well tolerated in patients treated with bexarotene 0.5–3.0 mg/kg/day and suggests that it is not necessary to take precautions with respect to short-term effects of sun exposure during bexarotene treatment. Further study of bexarotene photo(chemo)therapy in cutaneous T-cell lymphoma and psoriasis is warranted.