bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protecting motor networks during perinatal ischemia: the case for delta‐opioid receptors
Authors: Johnson Stephen M. , Turner Sara M.F.
Published: September 2010

Perinatal ischemia is a common clinical problem with few successful therapies to prevent neuronal damage. Delta opioid receptor (DOR) activation is a versatile, evolutionarily conserved, endogenous neuroprotective mechanism that blocks several steps in the deleterious cascade of neurological events during ischemia. DOR activation prior to ischemia or severe hypoxia is neuroprotective in spinal motor networks, as well as cortical, cerebellar, and hippocampal neural networks. In addition to providing acute and long‐lasting neuroprotection against ischemia, DOR activation appears to provide neuroprotection when given before, during, or following the onset of ischemia. Finally, DORs can be upregulated by several physiological and experimental perturbations. Potential adverse side effects affecting motor control, such as respiratory depression and seizures, are not well established in young mammals and may be mitigated by altering drug choice and method of drug administration. The unique features of DOR‐dependent neuroprotection make it an attractive potential therapy that may be given to at‐risk pregnant mothers shortly before delivery to provide long‐lasting neuroprotection against unpredictable perinatal ischemic events.
Effect of Type and Content of Modified Montmorillonite on the Structure and Properties of Bio‐Nanocomposite Films Based on Soy Protein Isolate and Montmorillonite
Authors: Kumar P. , Sandeep K.P. , Alavi S. , Truong V.D. , Gorga R.E.
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  The nonbiodegradable and nonrenewable nature of plastic packaging has led to a renewed interest in packaging materials based on bio‐nanocomposites (biopolymer matrix reinforced with nanoparticles such as layered silicates). Bio‐nanocomposite films based on soy protein isolate (SPI) and modified montmorillonite (MMT) were prepared using melt extrusion. The effect of different type (Cloisite 20A and Cloisite 30B) and content (0% to 15%) of modified MMT on the structure (degree of intercalation and exfoliation) and properties (color, mechanical, dynamic mechanical, thermal stability, and water vapor permeability) of SPI‐MMT bio‐nanocomposite films were investigated. Extrusion of SPI and modified MMTs resulted in bio‐nanocomposites with exfoliated structures at lower MMT content (5%). At higher MMT content (15%), the structure of bio‐nanocomposites ranged from intercalated for Cloisite 20A to disordered intercalated for Cloisite 30B. At an MMT content of 5%, bio‐nanocomposite films based on modified MMTs (Cloisite 20A and Cloisite 30B) had better mechanical (tensile strength and percent elongation at break), dynamic mechanical (glass transition temperature and storage modulus), and water barrier properties as compared to those based on natural MMT (Cloisite Na+). Bio‐nanocomposite films based on 10% Cloisite 30B had mechanical properties comparable to those of some of the plastics that are currently used in food packaging applications. However, much higher WVP values of these films as compared to those of existing plastics might limit the application of these films to packaging of high moisture foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables.
Control of Dongchimi Fermentation with Chitosan Deacetylated by Alkali Treatment to Prevent Over‐Ripening
Authors: Lee Woojin , Shin Tai‐Sun , Ko Sanghoon , Oh Hoon‐Il
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  Antimicrobial activities of chitosan against lactic acid bacteria were studied to apply for controlling dongchimi (whole‐radish juicy kimchi) fermentation to prevent over‐ripening. Antimicrobial activity of chitosan against lactic acid bacteria such as Leuconostoc mesenteroides and Lactobacillus plantarum was assayed at 10, 20, 30, and 40 mg/L concentration in the medium. The addition of 40 mg/L of the chitosan prepared at 140 °C for 10 min showed strong inhibitory effect on the growth of L. mesenteroides and L. plantarum. The effects of addition of chitosan to dongchimi have also been studied during fermentation at different temperatures of 4, 10, and 20 °C. Addition of chitosan decreased markedly viable cell counts of lactic acid bacteria such as Leuconostoc spp. and Lactobacillus spp. at the initial stage. Subsequently the lactic acid bacteria recovered the growth to the same level as non‐chitosan treated dongchimi. During the dongchimi fermentation, the addition of chitosan at larger quantity up to 1000 mg/L (CS1000) prolonged the palatable fermentation period. Addition of chitosan in the dongchimi seemed to inhibit the growth of lactic acid bacteria, thereby lowering the acid content. It, therefore, caused the shelf life to be extended and resulted in a prolonged palatable period for the dongchimi.
Microstructural Characterization of Multiphase Chocolate Using X‐Ray Microtomography
Authors: Frisullo Pierangelo , Licciardello Fabio , Muratore Giuseppe , Del Nobile Matteo Alessandro
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  In this study, X‐ray microtomography (μCT) was used for the image analysis of the microstructure of 12 types of Italian aerated chocolate chosen to exhibit variability in terms of cocoa mass content. Appropriate quantitative 3‐dimensional parameters describing the microstructure were calculated, for example, the structure thickness (ST), object structure volume ratio (OSVR), and the percentage object volume (POV). Chemical analysis was also performed to correlate the microstructural data to the chemical composition of the samples. Correlation between the μCT parameters acquired for the pore microstructure evaluation and the chemical analysis revealed that the sugar crystals content does not influence the pore structure and content. On the other hand, it revealed that there is a strong correlation between the POV and the sugar content obtained by chemical analysis. The results from this study show that μCT is a suitable technique for the microstructural analysis of confectionary products such as chocolates and not only does it provide an accurate analysis of the pores and microstructure but the data obtained could also be used to aid in the assessment of its composition and consistency with label specifications.

Practical Application: X‐ray microtomography (μCT) is a noninvasive and nondestructive 3‐D imaging technique that has several advantages over other methods, including the ability to image low‐moisture materials. Given the enormous success of μCT in medical applications, material science, chemical engineering, geology, and biology, it is not surprising that in recent years much attention has been focused on extending this imaging technique to food science as a useful technique to aid in the study of food microstructure. X‐ray microtomography provides in‐depth information on the microstructure of the food product being tested; therefore, a better understanding of the physical structure of the product and from an engineering perspective, knowledge about the microstructure of foods can be used to identify the important processing parameters that affect the quality of a product.
Lignocaine versus bupivacaine for flank anaesthesia using multiport catheters via a caudal epidural approach in cattle
Authors: DeRossi R , Verde‐Selva AB , Bertoni RA , Ruzzon RHS , Silva‐Neto AB
Published: September 2010

Objective To determine the anaesthetic and systemic effects of dorsolumbar epidural anaesthesia using non‐stylet multiport catheters via the caudal approach to administer hypertonic 5% lignocaine (HL) or hypertonic 0.5% bupivacaine (HB) to the flank in standing cattle.

Materials and methods Six healthy adult cattle weighing 310–455 kg received 0.2 mg/kg HL or 0.025 mg/kg of HB; control animals received 0.9% saline solution. All drugs were injected into the dorsolumbar epidural space via a caudal approach through a non‐stylet multiport catheter. Each animal received each treatment at random. Evaluations of anaesthesia, ataxia, heart rate, arterial pressures, respiratory rate and rectal temperature were obtained at 0 (basal), 5, 10, 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, and 90 min after epidural injection and then at 30‐min intervals until loss of anaesthesia. All animals received a standard noxious stimulus and a 4‐point scale was used to score the response. A second scale was used to score ataxia.

Results The duration of anaesthesia in the upper and lower flanks in cattle was 68 ± 12 and 110 ± 15 min (mean ± SD) after dorsolumbar epidural HL or HB, respectively. Both hypertonic local anaesthetics produced a mild ataxia. The systemic changes were within acceptable limits in these clinically healthy cattle.

Conclusion In standing cattle the dorsolumbar epidural injection of hypertonic lignocaine provided faster onset of anaesthesia and fewer cardiovascular effects, but had a shorter duration of anaesthesia than hypertonic bupivacaine.
SHORT CONTRIBUTION: Needle‐free vaccination in sheep
Authors: Colditz IG , Paull DR
Published: September 2010

Multi‐dose vaccinators have been in use for many years to vaccinate livestock. A number of needle‐free vaccinators that use compressed gas to drive the vaccine through intact skin have been recently introduced to the market. We recently examined the efficacy of a needle‐free vaccinator to induce antibodies to tetanus toxoid in sheep. The result indicates that needle‐free vaccination can stimulate antibody responses comparable to conventional needle vaccination.
Novel biphenyl compound, VMNS2e, ameliorates streptozotocin‐induced diabetic nephropathy in rats
Authors: KURUNDKAR Sucheta B. , SACHAN Narsingh , KODAM Kisan M. , KULKARNI Vithal M. , BODHANKAR Subhash L. , D’SOUZA Serena , VANAGE Geeta , GHOLE Vikram S.
Published: September 2010

Aim:  To study the effect of a new biphenyl synthetic compound showing interactions with the active site of protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B by docking and molecular dynamics, VMNS2e in streptozotocin‐induced diabetic nephropathy in rats with various renal function parameters and renal ultrastructure.

Methods:  Streptozotocin (55 mg/kg)‐induced diabetic rats were orally treated once daily with VMNS2e (30, 60, and 120 mg/kg) for 8 weeks. The body weight and blood glucose levels of the rats were recorded during the study period. After 8 weeks of treatment creatinine clearance, urinary protein, blood urea nitrogen, urinary albumin excretion rate, and insulin levels were measured. An ultrastructure study of the kidney tissue was performed and the glomerular basement membrane thickness was measured.

Results:  Eight weeks of VMNS2e treatment significantly reduced the fasting blood glucose level, attenuated elevating blood urea nitrogen levels, and reduced glomerular basement membrane thickness.

Conclusion:  It is concluded that VMNS2e treatment at 30 and 60 mg/kg, when given for 8 weeks, partly ameliorated early diabetic nephropathy in diabetic rats.
Adenosine–Dopamine Interactions in the Pathophysiology and Treatment of CNS Disorders
Authors: Fuxe K. , Marcellino D. , Borroto‐Escuela D. O. , Guescini M. , Fernández‐Dueñas V. , Tanganelli S. , Rivera A. , Ciruela F. , Agnati L. F.
Published: September 2010

Adenosine–dopamine interactions in the central nervous system (CNS) have been studied for many years in view of their relevance for disorders of the CNS and their treatments. The discovery of adenosine and dopamine receptor containing receptor mosaics (RM, higher‐order receptor heteromers) in the striatum opened up a new understanding of these interactions. Initial findings indicated the existence of A2AR‐D2R heterodimers and A1R‐D1R heterodimers in the striatum that were followed by indications for the existence of striatal A2AR‐D3R and A2AR‐D4R heterodimers. Of particular interest was the demonstration that antagonistic allosteric A2A‐D2and A1‐D1receptor–receptor interactions take place in striatal A2AR‐D2R and A1R‐D1R heteromers. As a consequence, additional characterization of these heterodimers led to new aspects on the pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease (PD), schizophrenia, drug addiction, andl‐DOPA‐induced dyskinesias relevant for their treatments. In fact, A2AR antagonists were introduced in the symptomatic treatment of PD in view of the discovery of the antagonistic A2AR–D2R interaction in the dorsal striatum that leads to reduced D2R recognition and Gi/ocoupling in striato‐pallidal GABAergic neurons. In recent years, indications have been obtained that A2AR‐D2R and A1R‐D1R heteromers do not exist as heterodimers, rather as RM. In fact, A2A‐CB1‐D2RM and A2A‐D2‐mGlu5RM have been discovered using a sequential BRET‐FRET technique and by using the BRET technique in combination with bimolecular fluorescence complementation. Thus, other pathogenic mechanisms beside the well‐known alterations in the release and/or decoding of dopamine in the basal ganglia and limbic system are involved in PD, schizophrenia and drug addiction. In fact, alterations in the stoichiometry and/or topology of A2A‐CB1‐D2and A2A‐D2‐mGlu5 RM may play a role. Thus, the integrative receptor–receptor interactions in these RM give novel aspects on the pathophysiology and treatment strategies, based on combined treatments, for PD, schizophrenia, and drug addiction.
Dopamine and Glutamate in Huntington's Disease: A Balancing Act
Authors: André Véronique M. , Cepeda Carlos , Levine Michael S.
Published: September 2010

Huntington's disease (HD) is caused by a CAG repeat expansion in exon 1 of the HD gene resulting in a long polyglutamine tract in the N‐terminus of the protein huntingtin. Patients carrying the mutation display chorea in early stages followed by akinesia and sometimes dystonia in late stages. Other major symptoms include depression, anxiety, irritability or aggressive behavior, and apathy. Although many neuronal systems are affected, dysfunction and subsequent neurodegeneration in the basal ganglia and cortex are the most apparent pathologies. In HD, the primary hypothesis has been that there is an initial overactivity of glutamate neurotransmission that produces excitotoxicity followed by a series of complex changes that are different in the striatum and in the cortex. This review will focus on evidence for alterations in dopamine (DA)–glutamate interactions in HD, concentrating on the striatum and cortex. The most recent evidence points to decreases in DA and glutamate neurotransmission as the HD phenotype develops. However, there is some evidence for increased DA and glutamate functions that could be responsible for some of the early HD phenotype. Significant evidence indicates that glutamate and dopamine neurotransmission is affected in HD, compromising the fine balance in which DA modulates glutamate‐induced excitation in the basal ganglia and cortex. Restoring the balance between glutamate and dopamine could be helpful to treat HD symptoms.
Role of Serotonin in Central Dopamine Dysfunction
Authors: Di Giovanni Giuseppe , Esposito Ennio , Di Matteo Vincenzo
Published: September 2010

The interaction between serotonin (5‐HT) and dopamine (DA)‐containing neurons in the brain is a research topic that has raised the interest of many scientists working in the field of neuroscience since the first demonstration of the presence of monoamine‐containing neurons in the mid 1960. The bulk of neuroanatomical data available clearly indicate that DA‐containing neurons in the brain receive a prominent innervation from serotonin (5‐hydroxytryptamine, 5‐HT) originating in the raphe nuclei of the brainstem. Compelling electrophysiological and neurochemical data show that 5‐HT can exert complex effects on the activity of midbrain DA neurons mediated by its various receptor subtypes. The main control seems to be inhibitory, this effect being more marked in the mesocorticolimbic DA system as compared to the DA nigrostriatal system. In spite of a direct effect of 5‐HT by its receptors located on DA cells, 5‐HT can modulate their activity indirectly, modifying γ‐aminobutyric (GABA)‐ergic and glutamatergic input to the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc). Although 5‐HT/DA interaction in the brain has been extensively studied, much work remains to be done to clarify this issue. The recent development of subtype‐selective ligands for 5‐HT receptors will not only allow a detailed understanding of this interaction but also will lead to the development of new treatment strategies, appropriate for those neuropsychiatric disorders in which an alteration of the 5‐HT/DA balance is supposed.
Dopamine and Oxytocin Interactions Underlying Behaviors: Potential Contributions to Behavioral Disorders
Authors: Baskerville Tracey A. , Douglas Alison J.
Published: September 2010

Dopamine is an important neuromodulator that exerts widespread effects on the central nervous system (CNS) function. Disruption in dopaminergic neurotransmission can have profound effects on mood and behavior and as such is known to be implicated in various neuropsychiatric behavioral disorders including autism and depression. The subsequent effects on other neurocircuitries due to dysregulated dopamine function have yet to be fully explored. Due to the marked social deficits observed in psychiatric patients, the neuropeptide, oxytocin is emerging as one particular neural substrate that may be influenced by the altered dopamine levels subserving neuropathologic‐related behavioral diseases. Oxytocin has a substantial role in social attachment, affiliation and sexual behavior. More recently, it has emerged that disturbances in peripheral and central oxytocin levels have been detected in some patients with dopamine‐dependent disorders. Thus, oxytocin is proposed to be a key neural substrate that interacts with central dopamine systems. In addition to psychosocial improvement, oxytocin has recently been implicated in mediating mesolimbic dopamine pathways during drug addiction and withdrawal. This bi‐directional role of dopamine has also been implicated during some components of sexual behavior. This review will discuss evidence for the existence dopamine/oxytocin positive interaction in social behavioral paradigms and associated disorders such as sexual dysfunction, autism, addiction, anorexia/bulimia, and depression. Preliminary findings suggest that whilst further rigorous testing has to be conducted to establish a dopamine/oxytocin link in human disorders, animal models seem to indicate the existence of broad and integrated brain circuits where dopamine and oxytocin interactions at least in part mediate socio‐affiliative behaviors. A profound disruption to these pathways is likely to underpin associated behavioral disorders. Central oxytocin pathways may serve as a potential therapeutic target to improve mood and socio‐affiliative behaviors in patients with profound social deficits and/or drug addiction.
Steroids‐Dopamine Interactions in the Pathophysiology and Treatment of CNS Disorders
Authors: Sánchez Maria Gabriela , Bourque Mélanie , Morissette Marc , Di Paolo Thérèse
Published: September 2010

Introduction:Dopamine cell loss is well documented in Parkinson's disease and dopamine hypofunction is proposed in certain depressive states. At the opposite, dopamine hyperactivity is an enduring theory in schizophrenia with extensive supporting evidence.Aims:This article reviews the sex differences in these diseases that are the object of many studies and meta‐analyses and could be explained by genetic differences but also an effect of steroids in the brain. This article then focuses on the extensive literature reporting on the effect of estrogens in these diseases and effects of the other ovarian hormone progesterone as well as androgens that are less documented. Moreover, dehydroepiandrosterone, the precursor of estrogens and androgens, shows effects on brain dopamine neurotransmission that are reviewed. To investigate the mechanisms implicated in the human findings, animal studies are reviewed showing effects of estrogens, progesterone, and androgens on various markers of dopamine neurotransmission under intact as well as lesioned conditions.Discussion:For possible future avenues for hormonal treatments in these central nervous system diseases, we discuss the effects of selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), the various estrogen receptors and their specific drugs as well as progesterone drugs.Conclusion:Clinical and experimental evidence supports a role of steroid–dopamine interactions in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia, depression and Parkinson's disease. Specific steroidal receptor agonists and SERMs are available for endocrine and cancer treatments and could find other applications as adjunct treatments in central nervous system diseases.
The Effect of Tamsulosin Treatment on Erectile Functions in Patients with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) due to Benign Prostate Hyperplasia: Correlation between Improvement of LUTS and Erectile Function
Authors: MATSUSHITA Tomohiko , HASEGAWA Taro , NAKANO Masaru , TANAKA Toshiaki , IWAMOTO Teruaki
Published: September 2010

Objectives: To evaluate the impact of tamsulosin treatment on erectile function in patients with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).

Methods: Seventy‐five patients with LUTS received tamsulosin 0.2 mg once daily for 3 months. Subjective efficacy was assessed by International Prostatic Symptom Score (IPSS) for LUTS and International Index for Erectile Function 5 (IIEF5) for erectile dysfunction (ED). Objective efficacy was assessed by prostate volume and urine flow rate. All measurements were performed at baseline and month 3. On the basis of IPSS ratio (month 3/baseline), the patients were classified into good responders (≤0.75) and poor responders (>0.75). Good responders to ED were defined as the patients who improved IIEF5 score 3 or more.

Results: Seventy‐four subjects completed the study. IPSS score showed significant improvement, but IIEF5 score showed no significant change. Forty‐three patients (58%) were classified into good responders to LUTS. The baseline score of IIEF5 in the good responders was significantly higher than that in the poor responders. Negative correlation was recognized between IPSS ratio and baseline score of IIEF5. Nine patients (13%) were able to classify into good responders to ED, who had significantly smaller prostate volume and showed significantly lower IPSS ratio.

Conclusions: The tamsulosin therapy for LUTS patients showed a significant improvement of LUTS, but no significant change of erectile functions. The better response to LUTS was seen in the milder ED patient. Tamsulosin therapy may be effective not only on LUTS but also on ED in the patients who have small prostate.
Nonthermal Irreversible Electroporation for Tissue Decellularization
Authors: Phillips Mary , Maor Elad , Rubinsky Boris
Published: September 2010

Tissue scaffolding is a key component for tissue engineering, and the extracellular matrix (ECM) is nature’s ideal scaffold material. A conceptually different method is reported here for producing tissue scaffolds by decellularization of living tissues using nonthermal irreversible electroporation (NTIRE) pulsed electrical fields to cause nanoscale irreversible damage to the cell membrane in the targeted tissue while sparing the ECM and utilizing the body’s host response for decellularization. This study demonstrates that the method preserves the native tissue ECM and produces a scaffold that is functional and facilitates recellularization. A two-dimensional transient finite element solution of the Laplace and heat conduction equations was used to ensure that the electrical parameters used would not cause any thermal damage to the tissue scaffold. By performing NTIRE in vivo on the carotid artery, it is shown that in 3 days post NTIRE the immune system decellularizes the irreversible electroporated tissue and leaves behind a functional scaffold. In 7 days, there is evidence of endothelial regrowth, indicating that the artery scaffold maintained its function throughout the procedure and normal recellularization is taking place.
A Critical Role for LTA
4
H in Limiting Chronic Pulmonary Neutrophilic Inflammation
Authors: Snelgrove Robert J. , Jackson Patricia L. , Hardison Matthew T. , Noerager Brett D. , Kinloch Andrew , Gaggar Amit , Shastry Suresh , Rowe Steven M. , Shim Yun M. , Hussell Tracy , Blalock J. Edwin
Published: September 2010

Smoke Gets in Your Lungs

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a leading cause of death in the United States, primarily caused by cigarette smoking. The chronic inflammation that leads to tissue damage and organ dysfunction in COPD is mediated in large part by neutrophils, a type of granulocytic immune cell.

Snelgrove
et al.

(p.
90
, published online 2 September; see the Perspective by

Barnes

) now provide an explanation for why neutrophils stick around in the lung during COPD. The neutrophil chemoattractant Pro-Gly-Pro (PGP) is a biomarker for COPD and promotes neutrophil accumulation. The enzyme leukotriene A
4
hydrolase degrades PGP in mice, and its activity was reduced by cigarette smoke both in vivo and in vitro. In contrast, during acute influenza infection in mice, leukotriene A
4
hydrolase functioned normally, allowing for PGP degradation and the resolution of inflammation. Thus, in COPD, cigarette smoking may lead to the accumulation PGP—which, in turn, could keep neutrophils in the lung to drive inflammation and subsequent lung damage and dysfunction.
Teaching practical wisdom in medicine through clinical judgement, goals of care, and ethical reasoning
Authors: Kaldjian Lauris Christopher
Published: September 2010

Clinical decision making is a challenging task that requires practical wisdom—the practised ability to help patients choose wisely among available diagnostic and treatment options. But practical wisdom is not a concept one typically hears mentioned in medical training and practice. Instead, emphasis is placed on clinical judgement. The author draws from Aristotle and Aquinas to describe the virtue of practical wisdom and compare it with clinical judgement. From this comparison, the author suggests that a more complete understanding of clinical judgement requires its explicit integration with goals of care and ethical values. Although clinicians may be justified in assuming that goals of care and ethical values are implicit in routine decision making, it remains important for training purposes to encourage habits of clinical judgement that are consciously goal-directed and ethically informed. By connecting clinical judgement to patients' goals and values, clinical decisions are more likely to stay focused on the particular interests of individual patients. To cultivate wise clinical judgement among trainees, educational efforts should aim at the integration of clinical judgement, communication with patients about goals of care, and ethical reasoning. But ultimately, training in wise clinical judgement will take years of practice in the company of experienced clinicians who are able to demonstrate practical wisdom by example. By helping trainees develop clinical judgement that incorporates patients' goals of care and ethical reasoning, we may help lessen the risk that ‘clinical judgement’ will merely express ‘theclinician'sjudgement.’
Simulating spatial dynamics to evaluate methods of deriving abundance indices for tropical tunas
Authors: Carruthers Thomas R. , McAllister Murdoch K. , Ahrens Robert N. M.
Published: September 2010

Relative abundance indices derived from nominal catch-per-unit-effort (CPUE) data are a principle source of information for the majority of stock assessments. A particular problem with formulating such abundance indices for pelagic species such as tuna is the interpretation of CPUE data from fleets that have changed distribution over time. In this research, spatial population dynamics are simulated to test the historical pattern of fishing effort as a basis for making inferences about relative abundance. A number of age-structured, spatially disaggregated population dynamics models are described for both Atlantic yellowfin tuna ( Thunnus albacares ) and bigeye tuna ( Thunnus obesus ) to account for uncertainty in spatial distribution and movement. These models are used to evaluate the reliability of standardization methods and a commonly applied model selection criterion, Akaike’s information criterion (AIC). The simulations demonstrate the pitfalls of aggregating CPUE data over spatial areas and highlight the need for data imputation. Simulations support simpler models than those selected using AIC for extracting reliable indices of relative abundance.
Validation of fish ageing methods should involve bias estimation rather than hypothesis testing: a proposed approach for bomb radiocarbon validations
Authors: Francis R. I.C. Chris , Campana Steven E. , Neil Helen L.
Published: September 2010

The need to validate methods of ageing fish is widely accepted and several approaches to validation have been used. Most validations are essentially informal tests, using graphical methods, of the null hypothesis of zero bias in the age estimates. It is argued that it would be more useful to estimate a confidence interval for this bias. This would provide both a quantitative measure of the strength of the validation and a means of formalising the hypothesis test. A method of estimating this confidence interval is proposed for validations based on bomb radiocarbon, and this is illustrated using data for bluenose ( Hyperoglyphe antarctica ) and haddock ( Melanogrammus aeglefinus ).
Bioenergetics assessment of fish and crayfish consumption by river otter (Lontra canadensis): integrating prey availability, diet, and field metabolic rate
Authors: Dekar Matthew P. , Magoulick Daniel D. , Beringer Jeff
Published: September 2010

River otters ( Lontra canadensis ) are important predators in aquatic ecosystems, but few studies quantify their prey consumption. We trapped crayfish monthly as an index of availability and collected otter scat for diet analysis in the Ozark Mountains of northwestern Arkansas, USA. We measured otter daily energy expenditure (DEE) with the doubly labeled water method to develop a bioenergetics model for estimating monthly prey consumption. Meek’s crayfish ( Orconectes meeki ) catch-per-unit-effort was positively related to stream temperature, indicating that crayfish were more available during warmer months. The percentage frequency of occurrence for crayfish in scat samples peaked at 85.0% in summer and was lowest (42.3%) in winter. In contrast, the percentage occurrence of fish was 13.3% in summer and 57.7% in winter. Estimates of DEE averaged 4738 kJ·day–1 for an otter with a body mass of 7842 g. Total biomass consumption ranged from 35 079 to 52 653 g·month–1 (wet mass), corresponding to a high proportion of fish and crayfish in the diet, respectively. Otter consumption represents a large fraction of prey production, indicating potentially strong effects of otters on trophic dynamics in stream ecosystems.
Influence of exsolved gases on slope performance at the Sarnia approach cut to the St. Clair Tunnel
Authors: Dittrich J. Paul , Rowe R. Kerry , Becker Dennis E. , Lo K. Y.
Published: September 2010

In 1993, over 100 years after the completion of the original St. Clair Tunnel and its approach cuts, work commenced on the new St. Clair Tunnel. The new tunnel used the existing approaches, but required additional excavation to widen and deepen the original cuts. In Sarnia, the new work initiated unusual deep-seated deformations on the south slope of the approach. Effective stress finite element analysis (FEA), using an elliptical cap soil model coupled with Biot consolidation theory, was used to model the 1993 construction, but initial predictions were unable to capture the trend of deformations noted in the field. Naturally occurring gases are frequently encountered near the base of the overburden in the Sarnia area and this phenomenon was observed during drilling investigations in the Sarnia approach cut. Including the effects of the presence of exsolved natural gases in fine-grained soils subjected to unloading in the FEA results in substantially better predictions in the trend of deformations on the slopes of the approach cut.
Electrochemical oxidation of sulfide ion in synthetic sour brines using periodic polarity reversal at Ebonex® electrodes
Authors: El-Sherif Shaimaa , Bejan Dorin , Bunce Nigel J.
Published: September 2010

The Magneli phase Ti4O7 (Ebonex®) was used as both anode and cathode in the electrochemical oxidation of sulfide ion in alkaline solution in the absence and presence of chloride and naphthenate ions. Ebonex anodes gradually lost their activity through the formation of an over-oxidized surface layer, but their activity could be maintained by periodic polarity reversal. In the context of the current paradigm for the mechanistic behaviour of oxide-based anodes, Ti4O7 has properties that combine those of “inactive” anodes (formation of hydroxyl radicals) and “active” anodes (formation of a higher oxide at the surface), with the exception that the higher oxide in the case of Ti4O7 is TiO2, which is incapable of substrate oxidation. Sulfate is the major oxidation product, especially in the presence of chloride, an ubiquitous component of sour brines, via mediated electro-oxidation to hypochlorite. Unlike at boron-doped diamond anodes, at which sulfide is oxidized with near-quantitative current efficiency, significant parasitic oxidation of water to O2 occurs at Ebonex, and oxidation of sulfide requires ~16 F mol–1, corresponding to a 50% current efficiency.
Terpenoid constituents and antifungal activity of Aglaia forbesii seed against phytopathogens
Authors: Joycharat Nantiya , Plodpai Patimaporn , Panthong Kanda , Yingyongnarongkul Boon-ek , Voravuthikunchai Supayang Piyawan
Published: September 2010

Two new trisnortriterpenoids possessing a γ-lactone ring linked to the D-ring of a 3,4-secodammarane skeleton in a 20R configuration, named isoeichlerialactone (1) and methyl isoeichlerialactone (2), were isolated from the seed of Aglaia forbesii , along with the three dammarane triterpenes, isocabralealactone (3), isoeichlerianic acid (4), and aglinin A (5), the sesquiterpene spathulenol (6), and the widespread sterols β-sitosterol and stigmasterol. Their structures were established based on detailed spectroscopic analysis. Antifungal activity of A. forbesii seed against three phytopathogens, Phytophthora botryosa , P. palmivora , and Rigidoporus microporus , was carried out using the mycelium inhibition test and broth microdilution technique. Superior activity was exhibited by hexane and dichloromethane fractions containing the compounds 1, 4, and 5 as the main components. Subsequent antiphytopathogenic fungi tests proved that compounds 1, 4, and 5 possessed good antifungal activity.
Value of quality information of Scots pine stands in timber bidding
Authors: Kangas A. , Mäkinen H. , Lyhykäinen H. T.
Published: September 2010

In any decision-making situation under uncertainty, the decision-maker can either choose between different alternatives with the current information or reduce the uncertainty by collecting more information. The value of the information can be defined as the difference between the expected value of an activity with and without the information. We examined the value of additional information in a case of competitive bidding for a given block of timber. Our main focus was on the uncertainty of roundwood quality, and volume was assumed to be known with certainty. The uncertainty of quality was described with the uncertainty of dimensions of living and dead crown. The prior information concerning the crown dimensions was obtained from statistical models or from an assumed uniform distribution. The value of each tree was calculated by predicting the proportions of different lumber grades and by-products as a function of the dimensions of the stem and the crown. The results showed that, if only uniform distribution was available as prior information, the quality information had a high value for the timber buyer. However, if the prior information from the statistical models was used, investing in quality information was profitable only for the stands with the highest volume.
Relative bulk density as a measure of compaction and its influence on tree height
Authors: Zhao Yihai , Krzic Maja , Bulmer Chuck E. , Schmidt Margaret G. , Simard Suzanne W.
Published: September 2010

Soil compaction often limits conifer regeneration on sites degraded by landings and roads, but inadequate understanding of the relationship between compaction and tree growth could lead to inappropriate soil conservation and rehabilitation efforts. We tested liquid and plastic limits, oxidizable organic matter, total carbon, particle size distribution, and iron and aluminum oxides on soil samples collected from five forest experiments in interior British Columbia. These data were used to estimate soil maximum bulk density (MBD) and relative bulk density (RBD); our objective was to relate RBD to tree growth. Height of interior Douglas-fir ( Pseudotsuga menziesii var. glauca (Bessin) Franco) was limited when RBD was >0.72. For lodgepole pine ( Pinus contorta Dougl. ex Loud. var. latifolia Engelm.) and hybrid white spruce ( Picea glauca (Moench) Voss × Picea engelmannii Parry ex Engelm.), RBDs of 0.60–0.68 corresponded to maximum height, whereas RBDs of 0.78–0.87 appeared to limit height growth. The presence of surface organic material mitigated compaction and was often associated with lower RBD. Our results illustrate the usefulness of RBD to assess compaction and suggest that soil rehabilitation should be considered on disturbed sites where soil RBD is >0.80.
A NUMERICAL TECHNIQUE TO EVALUATE THE FLEXURAL STIFFNESS OF LONG BONES AFFECTED BY CRACKS AND POROSITY
Authors: MOHAMMADI HADI , BAHRAMIAN FERESHTEH , MEQUANINT KIBRET , RIZKALLA AMIN
Published: September 2010

Bone maintains its structure through a constant process of resorption and formation, in a process called bone remodeling. An imbalance in this process caused by disease, abnormal mechanical demands, or fatigue may predispose bone to fracture injuries. Increase in bone resorption can increase the number of surface cracks and structural porosity of the bone and thus change its stiffness properties. In this study, a computational technique is proposed to investigate the stiffness properties in long bones based on dynamic responses. As the first attempt, defects such as porosity and cracks are detected based on changes in stiffness properties of the sample. The least square algorithm and the finite element method are used as tools in this study. The Wilson-θ numerical method is employed to generate artificially experimental results for acceleration vectors. The data obtained from the artificial experiment is later employed to the proposed computational investigation model as raw data.
Role of microsomal prostaglandin E synthase-1 in the facilitation of angiogenesis and the healing of gastric ulcers
Authors: Ae Takako , Ohno Takashi , Hattori Youichiro , Suzuki Tatsunori , Hosono Kanako , Minamino Tsutomu , Sato Takehito , Uematsu Satoshi , Akira Shizuo , Koizumi Wasaburo , Majima Masataka
Published: September 2010

The importance of prostaglandin E2 in various pathophysiological events emphasizes the necessity of understanding the role of PGE synthases (PGESs) in vivo. However, there has been no report on the functional relevance of microsomal PGES-1 (mPGES-1) to the physiological healing processes of gastric ulcers, or to angiogenesis, which is indispensable to the healing processes. In this report, we tested whether mPGES-1 plays a role in the healing of gastric ulcers and in the enhancement of angiogenesis using mPGES-1 knockout mice (mPGES-1 KO mice) and their wild-type (WT) counterparts. Gastric ulcers were induced by the serosal application of 100% acetic acid, and the areas of the ulcers were measured thereafter. mPGES-1 together with cyclooxygenase-2 were induced in the granulation tissues compared with normal stomach tissues. The healing of acetic acid-induced ulcers was significantly delayed in mPGES-1 KO mice compared with WT. This was accompanied with reduced angiogenesis in ulcer granulation tissues, as estimated by CD31 mRNA levels determined by real-time PCR and the microvessel density in granulation tissues. The mRNA levels of proangiogenic growth factors, such as transforming growth factor-β, basic fibroblast growth factor, and connective tissue growth factor in ulcer granulation tissues determined were reduced in mPGES-1 KO mice compared with WT. The present results suggest that mPGES-1 enhances the ulcer-healing processes and the angiogenesis indispensable to ulcer healing, and that a selective mPGES-1 inhibitor should be used with care in patients with gastric ulcers.
Tissue oxidative metabolism after extreme hemodilution with PEG-conjugated hemoglobin
Authors: Cabrales Pedro , Meng Fantao , Acharya Seetharama A.
Published: September 2010

NADH-localized fluorometry was used as a noninvasive technique to monitor changes in the energy state of intact tissue (muscle and connective tissue), without anesthesia, as a function of blood plasma O2-carrying capacity in the hamster window chamber model. Acute moderate isovolemic hemodilution was induced by two isovolemic hemodilution steps: in the first step, 6% 70-kDa dextran (Dex70) was used to induce an acute anemic state (18% Hct); in the second step, exchange transfusion of polyethylene glycol (PEG) maleimide-conjugated Hb (4 g/dl, PEG-Hb) or Dex70 (6 g/dl) was used to reduce erythrocytes to 75% of baseline (11% Hct). PEG-Hb had six copies of PEG (5 kDa) conjugated to each human Hb (0.48 g PEG/g Hb) through extension arm-facilitated chemistry. Systemic parameters, microvascular perfusion, functional capillary density, intravascular and interstitial Po2, and intracellular NADH fluorescence were monitored. Mean arterial blood pressure after extreme hemodilution was statistically significantly reduced for Dex70 compared with PEG-Hb. The presence of PEG-Hb in the circulation maintained positive acid-base balance. While microvascular blood flows were not different, functional capillary density was significantly higher for PEG-Hb than Dex70. Arteriolar Po2was higher in the presence of PEG-Hb than Dex70, but tissue and venular Po2were not different. Cellular energy metabolism (intracellular O2) in the tissues was improved with PEG-Hb. Moderate hemodilution to 18% Hct (6.4 g Hb/dl) brings tissue O2delivery to the verge of inadequacy. Extreme hemodilution to 11% Hct (3.7 g Hb/dl) produces tissue anoxia, and high-O2-affinity PEG-Hb (Po2at which blood is 50% saturated with O2= 4 Torr, 1.1 g Hb/dl) only partially decreases anaerobic metabolism without increasing tissue Po2.
A Survey of Intravenous Sodium Bicarbonate in Neonatal Asphyxia among European Neonatologists: Gaps between Scientific Evidence and Clinical Practice
Authors: Sáenz Pilar , Brugada Maria , de Jongh Beatriz , Sola Augusto , Torres Ester , Moreno Lucas , Vento Máximo
Published: September 2010

Background: Birth asphyxia is characterized by intermittent periods of hypoxia/ischemia leading to metabolic acidosis. The use of intravenous sodium bicarbonate (IVSB) is still a matter of controversy in clinical practice. Objective: To assess the use of IVSB in birth asphyxia by attending neonatologists in European hospitals. Design/Methods: Survey using a questionnaire administered to neonatologists in Europe whose electronic addresses were provided by the national councils of neonatology of each participating country. The questionnaire consisted of a brief theoretical introduction followed by demographic questions related to the respondent’s professional qualification. This was followed by a clinical case of an asphyxiated term neonate with severe combined metabolic and respiratory acidosis and case-specific questions related to the perceived indication for administration of IVSB and use of additional therapies to address the clinical situation. Descriptive statistics and χ2 analysis were performed. Results: The questionnaire was answered by 259 neonatologists from 17 countries. IVSB was believed to be indicated by 109 (42.2%) of the respondents in this clinical scenario. Results differed significantly between countries, with IVSB use varying from as high as 68% in Portugal and <5% in Scandinavian countries. However, there were no differences in the choice of other therapeutic measures. Conclusions: Although scientific evidence suggests that IVSB is not effective in asphyxiated newborns and current guidelines do not recommend its use, 42.2% of the consulted neonatologists in Europe would use it, with significant differences between but not within countries. There were no differences regarding additional measures to overcome asphyxia. Strategies to implement use of internationally accepted guidelines are needed.
Importance of Support Groups for Intersex (Disorders of Sex Development) Patients, Families and the Medical Profession
Authors: Cull M.L. , Simmonds M.
Published: September 2010

Taboo still surrounds intersex/disorders of sex development, in spite of more openness in society regarding sex. Peer support is valuable in providing information and emotional support to those affected. Support groups also work with clinicians to promote better care, to assist with research studies and to increase clinical awareness and expertise by helping to stage symposia. They also foster greater public understanding via media involvement and training videos; and play an advocacy role, providing one voice to channel the concerns of a scattered population with these rare conditions.
Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Expression of Th1/Th2 Cytokines in Whole Neonatal Cord and Adult Blood: Role of Nuclear Factor-Kappa B and p38 MAPK
Authors: Koch Lutz , Fritzsching Benedikt , Frommhold David , Poeschl Johannes
Published: September 2010

Background: Sepsis continues to be a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in newborns. Objective: As both nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-ĸB) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) appear to be critical mediators in inflammatory response, we studied the effects of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on expression and function of NF-ĸB and p38 MAPK in whole neonatal cord and adult blood. Methods:Th1/Th2 cytokine concentrations and phosphorylation of NF-ĸB and p38 MAPK were determined by flow-cytometric analysis. Results: Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), IL-6, and IL-10 concentrations were significantly elevated in supernatants of neonatal and adult blood after LPS stimulation for 4 h. IFN-γ, IL-4, and IL-2 showed no significant alterations. Furthermore, TNF-α concentrations were significantly higher in adult compared to neonatal blood after LPS stimulation. Stimulation with LPS resulted in significantly decreased activation of p38 MAPK in neonatal blood, whereas NF-ĸB showed no difference. Following inhibition of p38 MAPK with the specific inhibitor SB-202190, levels of TNF-α and IL-6 significantly decreased in neonatal and adult blood, whereas pharmacological inhibition of NF-ĸB with SC-514 showed no significant effect on cytokine expression. Conclusions: We conclude that p38 MAPK phosphorylation is crucially involved in LPS activation and could explain the differences in early cytokine response between neonatal and adult blood.