bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IMPACT OF TISSUE INHOMOGENEITY ON DOSE DISTRIBUTION IN THE CANINE CARPAL AND TARSAL REGIONS FOR COBALT AND 6 MV PHOTONS
Authors: MAYER MONIQUE N. , YOSHIKAWA HIROTO , SIDHU NARINDER
Published: April 2009

We quantified the effect of tissue inhomogeneity on dose distribution in a canine distal extremity resulting from treatment with cobalt photons and photons from a 6 MV accelerator. Monitor units for a typical distal extremity treatment were calculated by two methods, using equally weighted, parallel‐opposed fields. The first method was a computed tomography (CT)‐based, computerized treatment plan, calculated without inhomogeneity correction. The second method was a manual point dose calculation to the isocenter. A computerized planning system was then used to assess the dose distribution achieved by these two methods when tissue inhomogeneity was taken into account. For cobalt photons, the median percentage of the planning target volume (PTV) that received <95% of the prescribed dose was 4.5% for the CT‐based treatment plan, and 26.2% for the manually calculated plan. For 6 MV photons, the median percentage of the PTV that received <95% of the prescribed dose was <1% for both planning methods. The PTV dose achieved without using inhomogeneity correction for cobalt photons results in potentially significant under dosing of portions of the PTV.
EVALUATION OF A HEAD‐REPOSITIONER AND Z‐PLATE SYSTEM FOR IMPROVED ACCURACY OF DOSE DELIVERY
Authors: CHARNEY SARAH C. , LUTZ WENDELL R. , KLEIN MARY K. , JONES PAMELA D.
Published: April 2009

Radiation therapy requires accurate dose delivery to targets often identifiable only on computed tomography (CT) images. Translation between the isocenter localized on CT and laser setup for radiation treatment, and interfractional head repositioning are frequent sources of positioning error. The objective was to design a simple, accurate apparatus to eliminate these sources of error. System accuracy was confirmed with phantom and in vivo measurements. A head repositioner that fixates the maxilla via dental mold with fiducial marker Z‐plates attached was fabricated to facilitate the connection between the isocenter on CT and laser treatment setup. A phantom study targeting steel balls randomly located within the head repositioner was performed. The center of each ball was marked on a transverse CT slice on which six points of the Z‐plate were also visible. Based on the relative position of the six Z‐plate points and the ball center, the laser setup position on each Z‐plate and a top plate was calculated. Based on these setup marks, orthogonal port films, directed toward each target, were evaluated for accuracy without regard to visual setup. A similar procedure was followed to confirm accuracy of in vivo treatment setups in four dogs using implanted gold seeds. Sequential port films of three dogs were made to confirm interfractional accuracy. Phantom and in vivo measurements confirmed accuracy of 2 mm between isocenter on CT and the center of the treatment dose distribution. Port films confirmed similar accuracy for interfractional treatments. The system reliably connects CT target localization to accurate initial and interfractional radiation treatment setup.
Crystal structures of open and closed forms of cyclo/maltodextrin‐binding protein
Authors: Matsumoto Naoki , Yamada Mitsugu , Kurakata Yuma , Yoshida Hiromi , Kamitori Shigehiro , Nishikawa Atsushi , Tonozuka Takashi
Published: April 2009

The crystal structures of Thermoactinomyces  vulgaris cyclo/maltodextrin‐binding protein (TvuCMBP) complexed with α‐cyclodextrin (α‐CD), β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD) and maltotetraose (G4) have been determined. A common functional conformational change among all solute‐binding proteins involves switching from an open form to a closed form, which facilitates transporter binding. Escherichia  coli maltodextrin‐binding protein (EcoMBP), which is structurally homologous to TvuCMBP, has been determined to adopt the open form when complexed with β‐CD and the closed form when bound to G4. Here, we show that, unlike EcoMBP, TvuCMBP–α‐CD and TvuCMBP–β‐CD adopt the closed form when complexed, whereas TvuCMBP–G4 adopts the open form. Only two glucose residues are evident in the TvuCMBP–G4 structure, and these bind to the C‐domain of TvuCMBP in a manner similar to the way in which maltose binds to the C‐domain of EcoMBP. The superposition of TvuCMBP–α‐CD, TvuCMBP–β‐CD and TvuCMBP–γ‐CD shows that the positions and the orientations of three glucose residues in the cyclodextrin molecules overlay remarkably well. In addition, most of the amino acid residues interacting with these three glucose residues also participate in interactions with the two glucose residues in TvuCMBP–G4, regardless of whether the protein is in the closed or open form. Our results suggest that the mechanisms by which TvuCMBP changes from the open to the closed conformation and maintains the closed form appear to be different from those of EcoMBP, despite the fact that the amino acid residues responsible for the initial binding of the ligands are well conserved between TvuCMBP and EcoMBP.
Purified RPE65 shows isomerohydrolase activity after reassociation with a phospholipid membrane
Authors: Nikolaeva Olga , Takahashi Yusuke , Moiseyev Gennadiy , Ma Jian‐xing
Published: April 2009

Generation of 11‐cis‐retinol from all‐trans‐retinyl ester in the retinal pigment epithelium is a critical step in the visual cycle and is essential for perception of light. Recent findings from cell culture models suggest that protein RPE65 is the retinoid isomerohydrolase that catalyzes the reaction. However, previous attempts to detect the enzymatic activity of purified RPE65 were unsuccessful, and thus its enzymatic function remains controversial. Here, we developed a novel liposome‐based assay for isomerohydrolase activity. The results showed that purified recombinant chicken RPE65 had a high affinity for all‐trans‐retinyl palmitate‐containing liposomes and demonstrated a robust isomerohydrolase activity. Furthermore, we found that all‐trans‐retinyl ester must be incorporated into the phospholipid membrane to serve as a substrate for isomerohydrolase. This assay system using purified RPE65 enabled us to measure kinetic parameters for the enzymatic reaction catalyzed by RPE65. These results provide conclusive evidence that RPE65 is the isomerohydrolase of the visual cycle.
Common foot examination features of 247 Iranian patients with diabetes
Authors: Alavi A , Sanjari M , Haghdoost A , Sibbald RG
Published: April 2009

Background: Iran is a Middle Eastern country with a 70 million population. There are 3 million Iranians with diabetes mellitus (DM) and there is a high incidence of non traumatic amputation in this population. Amputation is often preceded by foot deformity or ulceration. We evaluated the routine foot examination of persons with diabetes (PWD) attending an outpatient Diabetic Clinic to identify the clinical characteristics that might be early warning signs of individuals at a high risk of developing a foot ulcer or having a subsequent non traumatic amputation.

Methods: A prospective, descriptive, clinic‐based study was conducted on 247 patients with diabetes mellitus in 2005. The objectives of the study were to define the abnormal features of the foot examination in PWD which could be risk factors for ulceration or amputation.

Results: The mean age of patients with diabetes was 52 ± 12. The prevalence of callus in the enrolled patients was 12% and heel fissures were noted in 50%. There was a significant relationship between callus formation and the absence of tibialis posterior pulse (odds ratio 5), the presence of the hammer toe deformity (odds ratio 4), and foot ulceration (odds ratio 3). The prevalence of foot ulcers in PWD was 4%.

Conclusion: A diabetic screening program identifying callus formation, absent pulses, and hammer toe are important early signs of individuals at an increased risk for foot ulcers. This program will facilitate early treatment to decrease the loss of limbs.
Dilemmas in measuring and using pressure ulcer prevalence and incidence: an international consensus
Authors: Baharestani Mona M , Black Joyce M , Carville Keryln , Clark Michael , Cuddigan Janet E , Dealey Carol , Defloor Tom , Harding Keith G , Lahmann Nils A , Lubbers Maarten J , Lyder Courtney H , Ohura Takehiko , Orsted Heather L , Reger Steve I , Romanelli Marco , Sanada Hiromi
Published: April 2009

Pressure ulcer prevalence and incidence data are increasingly being used as indicators of quality of care and the efficacy of pressure ulcer prevention protocols. In some health care systems, the occurrence of pressure ulcers is also being linked to reimbursement. The wider use of these epidemiological analyses necessitates that all those involved in pressure ulcer care and prevention have a clear understanding of the definitions and implications of prevalence and incidence rates. In addition, an appreciation of the potential difficulties in conducting prevalence and incidence studies and the possible explanations for differences between studies are important. An international group of experts has worked to produce a consensus document that aims to delineate and discuss the important issues involved, and to provide guidance on approaches to conducting and interpreting pressure ulcer prevalence and incidence studies. The group's main findings are summarised in this paper.
Trauma reception and resuscitation in Sri Lanka: The Health for the South Capacity‐Building project
Authors: O'Reilly Gerard , Fitzgerald Mark , Ariyananda Pilane L , Jayasekera Krishantha , Williams Sue , Charlton Sally , Young Simon , Santeloudi Nicholas , Wilson Kylie , Stevens Jeremy
Published: April 2009

In response to the Indian Ocean tsunami of 2004, the Health for the South project, Capacity‐Building programme was implemented in Galle, Sri Lanka. The objectives of the Capacity‐Building programme were to develop the emergency and trauma service capability at Teaching Hospital Karapitiya in Galle. Over 15 months, ED clinicians, from the Alfred Hospital and Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne, provided training in the Emergency Treatment Unit of the main referral hospital for the south of Sri Lanka. This programme, completed in June 2008, significantly improved the hospital's ability to conduct trauma resuscitation, and to attain an increased level of disaster preparedness. In addition, valuable lessons were noted that will guide future initiatives in trauma care training in similar contexts.
Changes in the Penile Arteries of the Rat After Fractionated Irradiation of the Prostate: A Pilot Study
Authors: Van Der Wielen Gerard J. , Vermeij Marcel , De Jong Bas W.D. , Schuit Maarten , Marijnissen Johannes , Kok Dik J. , Van Weerden Wytske M. , Incrocci Luca
Published: April 2009

Introduction

External beam radiotherapy for prostate cancer leads to erectile dysfunction in 36%–43% of patients. The underlying mechanism is largely unknown, although some clinical studies suggest that the arterial supply to the corpora cavernosa is responsible. Two animal experimental studies reported on the effects of a single fraction of prostate irradiation on the penile structures. However, irradiation in multiple fractions is more representative of the actual clinical treatment.

Aim

The present prospective, controlled study was initiated to investigate the effect of fractionated prostate irradiation on the arteries of the corpora cavernosa.

Main Outcome Measures

Histological evaluation of the penile tissue in comparison with control rats at 2, 4, and 9 weeks after irradiation.

Methods

The prostate of twelve rats was treated with external beam radiation in 5 daily fractions of 7.4 gray. Three control rats were treated with sham irradiation. Prostatic and penile tissue was evaluated for general histology (hematoxylin–eosin). The penile tissue was further evaluated after combined staining for collagen (resorcin fuchsin) and α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) (Biogenex).

Results

The prostate showed adequate irradiation with fibrosis occurring at 9 weeks after irradiation. The corpora cavernosa showed arteries that had developed loss of smooth muscle cells expressing SMA, thickening of the intima, and occlusions. All the control rats maintained normal anatomy.

Conclusion

This is the first animal experimental study that demonstrates changes in the arteries of the corpora cavernosa after fractionated irradiation to the prostatic area. The preliminary data suggests that erectile dysfunction after radiotherapy might be caused by radiation damage to the arterial supply of the corpora cavernosa.
Genetic variation of chloroplast DNA in Zingiberaceae taxa from Myanmar assessed by PCR–restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis
Authors: Ahmad D. , Kikuchi A. , Jatoi S.A. , Mimura M. , Watanabe K.N.
Published: April 2009

We examined genetic variation in 22 accessions belonging to 11 species in four genera of the Zingiberaceae, mainly from Myanmar, by PCR–restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis to investigate their relationships within this family. Two of 10 chloroplast gene regions (trnS‐trnfM and trnK2–trnQr) showed differential PCR amplification across the taxa. Restriction enzyme digestion of the PCR products revealed interspecific variability. The restriction patterns were used to classify the regions as either highly conserved or variable across the taxa. None of the regions was highly conserved across the four genera, and the level of conservation varied. The gene region trnS‐trnfM appeared to display interspecific variability among most of the species. However, the relative efficiency of different restriction enzymes depended on the gene regions and genera investigated. Cluster analysis revealed interspecific discrimination among the taxa. The two Curcuma species (Curcuma zedoaria and Curcuma xanthorrhiza) appeared to be identical, thus supporting their recent classification as synonyms. The results provide the basis for selecting specific combinations of restriction enzymes and gene regions of chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) to identify interspecific variation in the Zingiberaceae and to identify both highly conserved and variable regions. Overall, cpDNA depicted comparatively diverse genetic profile of the studied germplasm. The genetic information revealed here can be applied to the conservation and future breeding of Zingiber and Curcuma species.
Responses of genotypes from species of Trifolium, Ornithopus, Biserrula and Hedysarum to a highly virulent race of Phytophthora clandestina and new sources of resistance
Authors: Li H. , Han S. , Nichols P.G.H. , Revell C.K. , Sivasithamparam K. , Barbetti M.J.
Published: April 2009

Thirty‐six genotypes, including 15 cultivars and 10 breeding lines of Trifolium subterraneum, a single genotype of each of seven other species of Trifolium (viz. Trifolium dasyurum, Trifolium glanduliferum, Trifolium incarnatum, Trifolium michelanium, Trifolium purpureum, Trifolium spumosum and Trifolium vesiculosum), Biserrula pelecinus, Hedysarum coronarium, Ornithopus compressus and Ornithopus sativus were screened under controlled environmental conditions for resistance to root disease caused by the most pathogenic race of Phytophthora clandestina occurring in Australia, namely race 177. This is the first time any of these genera/species other than T.subterraneum has ever been screened for its response to P. clandestina. The root disease caused by P.clandestina is the first report of susceptibility to this pathogen for the seven other species of Trifolium and also for B.pelecinus, H.coronarium and O.sativus. Within T.subterraneum, a very high level of resistance was identified in cvs Denmark, Junee and Meteora [scores ≤1.5 (0–5 scale where 0 = no disease) across two separate screening tests] and in the breeding lines SL027 and SM023 (scores ≤1.3 across two separate screening tests). Six of the seven other species of Trifolium (viz. T.dasyurum, T.glanduliferum, T.incarnatum, T.michelanium, T.purpureum and T.spumosum) showed a high level of resistance (scores ≤0.8 across two separate screening tests), while T.vesiculosum showed a disease score of ≤1.2 across both screening tests. O.compressus showed no disease in either test, and O.sativus showed a disease score of ≤0.7 across both screening tests. H.coronarium was susceptible with a disease score of ≤2.8 across two separate screening tests, while B.pelecinus was highly susceptible with disease scores of 3.5 and 4.6 in these tests. The high levels of resistance identified against P.clandestina are useful sources of resistance that can be exploited commercially, either directly to minimise damage from this disease or as parents in breeding programs to develop cultivars within the genera/species tested with improved resistance to this highly pathogenic race of P.clandestina.
The evolution of the mass—metallicity relation in SDSS galaxies uncovered by astropaleontology
Authors: Vale Asari N. , Stasińska G. , Cid Fernandes R. , Gomes J. M. , Schlickmann M. , Mateus A. , Schoenell W. ,   (the SEAGal collaboration)
Published: April 2009

We have obtained the mass–metallicity (M–Z) relation at different lookback times for the same set of galaxies from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey, using the stellar metallicities estimated with our spectral synthesis code starlight. We have found that this relation steepens and spans a wider range in both mass and metallicity at higher redshifts. We have modelled the time evolution of stellar metallicity with a closed-box chemical evolution model, for galaxies of different types and masses. Our results suggest that the M–Z relation for galaxies with present-day stellar masses down to 1010M⊙ is mainly driven by the history of star formation and not by inflows or outflows.
Patents and Exhibitions
Authors: Richardson Megan
Published: April 2009

In this article I suggest that a forgotten value of the patent law system is freedom of expression. Vestiges can be found in the law's allowance for exhibition of unpatented inventions under provisions whose history can be traced back to the great exhibitions of the nineteenth century. The provisions' initial purpose may have been to preserve an inventor's ability to patent an invention at a time when exhibition was the dominant norm and patenting relatively limited. But, for various reasons to be explored in the article, patenting has now emerged as the dominant norm. When it comes to reform of patent law, if anything, I argue, the law could expand the freedom to exhibit. There may be some net benefits to be obtained in terms of supporting and driving innovation. However, the benefit most especially associated with exhibitions lies in the collective enjoyment of the spectacle—as flourished in the medieval markets and fairs long before the patent system emerged as a mechanism to permit and regulate monopolies, found a measure of official support in the nineteenth‐ and twentieth‐century museums, galleries and exhibitions, and is now being rediscovered again in certain newer forms of public display of the twenty‐first century.
Resistance as a Lens for Understanding the International Preschool Movement
Authors: Beatty Barbara
Published: April 2009

The essays in this special issue offer fascinating examples of many, often surprising interconnections within and between the international preschool movement and other education reforms. Just imagining Elizabeth Peabody in Florence and Rome puts her in a new light, and who knew that Julius Rosenwald contributed to a nursery training school in Britain along with his support for building schools for African-American children in the South?
Froebel Crosses the Alps: Introducing the Kindergarten in Italy
Authors: Albisetti James C.
Published: April 2009

The kindergarten was, in all countries but Germany, a foreign import. The most familiar aspect of its diffusion to American scholars is the spread of Froebel's teachings into England and the United States by emigrants who had left the German Confederation after the failure of the revolutions of 1848–49. Familiar as well are the propaganda efforts by Baroness Bertha von Marenholtz-Bülow in Western Europe, especially in the 1850s when kindergartens were banned in Prussia. The recent anthology edited by Roberta Wollons, Kindergartens and Cultures, has shown that many countries received this institution secondhand, as Japan and Australia did via the United States.
Early Childhood Education
Authors: Konrad Franz-Michael
Published: April 2009

As a historian of early childhood education in German-speaking Europe, I am struck by the outstanding role that Friedrich Froebel, or rather his ideas, played in all the countries described in the six essays. This is not really new since even the first historiographic articles in German-speaking countries already pointed out Froebel's role internationally. The worldwide spread of Froebel's educational teachings remains the subject of German research to this day. And yet it is still so remarkable to see how Froebel's philosophy of education—which had its origins in the spirit of romanticism and which seems strange even to German audiences—has succeeded in establishing itself in different cultures and for different reasons. Just think of Italy in the second half of the nineteenth century (James C. Albisetti), of post-revolutionary Russia ruled by the Bolsheviks (Yordanka Valkanova), of Great Britain, France, and the United States. Even in Asian countries we can find evidence of Froebel's influence, for example, in Korea and in Japan (on Japan, Kathleen Uno). In spite of the differences between these countries and their cultures, Froebel's pedagogy has succeeded in playing an influential role in all of them. Extant institutions for the care and education of preschool children developed into modern kindergartens under the influence of Froebel's teachings. In the end it was always about making it possible for young children to learn and, at the same time, taking into account the very special way learning occurs in these early years as an active, action-based and almost effortless kind of learning. Froebel found an answer to this problem. With his gifts he gave the answer in a simple and yet brilliant manner which was, despite its origins in German idealism, apparently unrelated to culture.
The Endangered Species Act
Authors: Bean Michael J.
Published: April 2009

The Endangered Species Act of 1973 is one of the nation's most significant and most controversial environmental laws. Over three‐and‐a‐half decades, it has profoundly influenced both private and federal agency behavior. As the scope of that influence has come to be recognized, a law that is ostensibly to be guided by science has inevitably become entangled in politics. The generality of many of the law's key provisions has produced continuing uncertainty and conflict over some basic issues. Among these are what species or other taxa are potentially subject to the Act's protections, what the extent of those protections is, and whether the Act's ultimate goal of recovery is one that is being effectively achieved. New challenges face the administrators of this law, including that of incorporating climate change considerations into the decisions made under the Act, and responding to the information made available by recent advances in genetics. This paper provides a brief overview of the Endangered Species Act's history and its key provisions, and a more in‐depth look at some of the current and recurrent controversies that have attended its implementation.
Mapping and Valuing Ecosystem Services as an Approach for Conservation and Natural‐Resource Management
Authors: Tallis Heather , Polasky Stephen
Published: April 2009

Current approaches to conservation and natural‐resource management often focus on single objectives, resulting in many unintended consequences. These outcomes often affect society through unaccounted‐for ecosystem services. A major challenge in moving to a more ecosystem‐based approach to management that would avoid such societal damages is the creation of practical tools that bring a scientifically sound, production function‐based approach to natural‐resource decision making. A new set of computer‐based models is presented, the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs tool (InVEST) that has been designed to inform such decisions. Several of the key features of these models are discussed, including the ability to visualize relationships among multiple ecosystem services and biodiversity, the ability to focus on ecosystem services rather than biophysical processes, the ability to project service levels and values in space, sensitivity to manager‐designed scenarios, and flexibility to deal with data and knowledge limitations. Sample outputs of InVEST are shown for two case applications; the Willamette Basin in Oregon and the Amazon Basin. Future challenges relating to the incorporation of social data, the projection of social distributional effects, and the design of effective policy mechanisms are discussed.
Food Chains in Freshwaters
Authors: Sabo John L. , Finlay Jacques C. , Post David M.
Published: April 2009

There are three hypothesized controls on food‐chain length (FCL): energy supply (or “resource availability”), ecosystem size and disturbance (or “environmental variation”). In this article, the evidence for controls on FCL in freshwater ecosystems is evaluated. First, the various ways FCL can be measured are defined. Food‐chain length typically is estimated as (1) connectance‐based FCL—an average connectance between basal resources and top consumers, (2) functional FCL—by experimental determination of functionally significant effects of a top predator on lower trophic‐level biomass patterns, and (3) realized FCL—an average connectance measure weighted by energy flow between basal consumers and the consumer occupying the maximum trophic position in the food web. Second, all evidence for relationships between the three hypothetical controls and FCL in freshwater ecosystems are evaluated. The review includes studies from streams, lakes, ponds, wetlands, phytotelmata, and experimental containers. Surprisingly, few studies of FCL in freshwaters that test the same suite of controls using the same methods are found. Equally compelling results arise from case studies based on functional, realized, and connectance‐based measures of FCL. Third, 10 rules of thumb that could increase similarity of future studies, thereby facilitating synthesis across systems, are suggested. Fourth, it is discussed how FCL influences the concentration of contaminants in large‐bodied animals (many of which are consumed by humans) as well as the efficacy of biocontrol applications in agriculture. Finally, there is a discussion of the potential relationships between global climate change, hydrology, and FCL in freshwaters.
Long‐Term Population Cycles in Human Societies
Authors: Turchin Peter
Published: April 2009

Human population dynamics are usually conceptualized as either boundless growth or growth to an equilibrium. The implicit assumption underlying these paradigms is that any feedback processes regulating population density, if they exist, operate on a fast‐time‐scale, and therefore we do not expect to observe population oscillations in human population numbers. This review asks, are population processes in historical and prehistorical human populations characterized by second‐order feedback loops, that is, regulation involving lags? If yes, then the implications for forecasting future population change are obvious—what may appear as inexplicable, exogenously driven reverses in population trends may actually be a result of feedbacks operating with substantial time lags. This survey of a variety of historical and archeological data indicates that slow oscillations in population numbers, with periods of roughly two to three centuries, are observed in a number of world regions and historical periods. Next, a potential explanation for this pattern, the demographic‐structural theory, is discussed. Finally, the implications of these results for global population forecasts is discussed.
Coral Reefs
Authors: Riegl Bernhard , Bruckner Andy , Coles Steve L. , Renaud Philip , Dodge Richard E.
Published: April 2009

Coral reefs are iconic, threatened ecosystems that have been in existence for ∼500 million years, yet their continued ecological persistence seems doubtful at present. Anthropogenic modification of chemical and physical atmospheric dynamics that cause coral death by bleaching and newly emergent diseases due to increased heat and irradiation, as well as decline in calcification caused by ocean acidification due to increased CO2, are the most important large‐scale threats. On more local scales, overfishing and destructive fisheries, coastal construction, nutrient enrichment, increased runoff and sedimentation, and the introduction of nonindigenous invasive species have caused phase shifts away from corals. Already ∼20% of the world's reefs are lost and ∼26% are under imminent threat. Conservation science of coral reefs is well advanced, but its practical application has often been lagging. Societal priorites, economic pressures, and legal/administrative systems of many countries are more prone to destroy rather than conserve coral‐reef ecosystems. Nevertheless, many examples of successful conservation exist from the national level to community‐enforced local action. When effectively managed, protected areas have contributed to regeneration of coral reefs and stocks of associated marine resources. Local communities often support coral‐reef conservation in order to raise income potential associated with tourism and/or improved resource levels. Coral reefs create an annual income in S‐Florida alone of over $4 billion. Thus, no conflict between development, societal welfare, and coral‐reef conservation needs to exist. Despite growing threats, it is not too late for decisive action to protect and save these economically and ecologically high‐value ecosystems. Conservation science plays a critical role in designing effective strategies.
Understanding and Managing Human Threats to the Coastal Marine Environment
Authors: Crain Caitlin M. , Halpern Benjamin S. , Beck Mike W. , Kappel Carrie V.
Published: April 2009

Coastal marine habitats at the interface of land and sea are subject to threats from human activities in both realms. Researchers have attempted to quantify how these various threats impact different coastal ecosystems, and more recently have focused on understanding the cumulative impact from multiple threats. Here, the top threats to coastal marine ecosystems and recent efforts to understand their relative importance, ecosystem‐level impacts, cumulative effects, and how they can best be managed and mitigated, are briefly reviewed. Results of threat analysis and rankings will differ depending on the conservation target (e.g., vulnerable species, pristine ecosystems, mitigatable threats), scale of interest (local, regional, or global), whether externalities are considered, and the types of management tools available (e.g., marine‐protected areas versus ecosystem‐based management). Considering the cumulative effect of multiple threats has only just begun and depends on spatial analysis to predict overlapping threats and a better understanding of multiple‐stressor effects and interactions. Emerging conservation practices that hold substantial promise for protecting coastal marine systems include multisector approaches, such as ecosystem‐based management (EBM), that account for ecosystem service valuation; comprehensive spatial management, such as ocean zoning; and regulatory mechanisms that encourage or require cross‐sector goal setting and evaluation. In all cases, these efforts require a combination of public and private initiatives for success. The state of our ecological understanding, public awareness, and policy initiatives make the time ripe for advancing coastal marine management and improving our stewardship of coastal and marine ecosystems.
Seizures during medetomindine sedation and local anaesthesia in two dogs undergoing skin biopsy
Authors: Rainger JE , Baxter CG , Vogelnest LJ , Dart CM
Published: April 2009

Each of two dogs presented for multiple skin biopsies were sedated with intravenous medetomidine and lignocaine was injected subcutaneously to provide local anaesthesia for skin biopsy. One dog had a seizure during skin biopsy and again immediately following reversal of medetomidine with atipamezole. The other dog developed seizures 2 h following skin biopsy at which time the medetomidine was reversed with atipamezole. Both dogs were neurologically normal with no history of seizures prior to the procedure and remained neurologically normal for 14 weeks and 9 months, respectively, following the procedure. A drug interaction between the α2‐adrenergic agonist medetomidine and lignocaine is suspected and highlights the potential for seizures following the subcutaneous administration of relatively large doses of lignocaine under medetomidine sedation.
Effects of Sodium Butyrate on Cell Death Induced by Photodynamic Therapy in U373‐MG and D54‐MG Astrocytoma Cell Lines
Authors: Flores‐Ancona Roxana Magaly , García‐Gómez Fanny Yocelin , Jiménez‐Betanzos Ana María , Solis‐Paredes Mario , Castro‐Leyva Violeta , Cruz‐Orea Alfredo , Arenas‐Huertero Francisco , Ramón‐Gallegos Eva
Published: April 2009

The damage induced by end products of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in astrocytoma tumors leads to cytotoxicity and cell death. Chromatin modifiers such as sodium butyrate (NaB) induce several genes involved in apoptosis, among others. The PDT improvement was evaluated by the measurement of its effectiveness in the treatment of U373‐MG and D54‐MG astrocytoma cell lines exposed to NaB. Cells exposed to 80 μg mL−1 of δ‐aminolevulinic acid (ALA) as precursor of endogenous photosensitizer (PS), protoporphyrin IX (PpIX), induced 16.67% and 28.9% of mortality in U373‐MG and D54‐MG, respectively. The mortality increased to 70.62% and 96.7%, respectively, when U373‐MG and D54‐MG cells were exposed for 24 h to 8 mm NaB prior to ALA‐induction. In this condition, re‐expression of some genes related to apoptosis in U373‐MG, and differentiation in D54‐MG were induced. PpIX accumulation was higher than ALA‐induction and the acetylation of histone H4 induced by NaB was verified by immunocytochemistry in both cells. It can be concluded that modified chromatin and genes induced by NaB increment the cellular death induced by PDT in astrocytoma cells using PpIX as endogenous PS.
Blue Light‐induced Chloroplast Avoidance and Phototropic Responses Exhibit Distinct Dose Dependency of PHOTOTROPIN2 in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Kimura Mitsuhiro , Kagawa Takatoshi
Published: April 2009

PHOTOTROPIN2 (PHOT2) is a unique photoreceptor involved in chloroplast avoidance movement and also regulates blue light (BL) responses, such as phototropism and leaf flattening, together with PHOTOTROPIN1 (PHOT1) in Arabidopsis thaliana. Previous work showed that the defect of the phot2‐1 mutant in chloroplast avoidance movement was a semidominant trait. In the present study, we examined PHOT2 dose dependency of BL responses using the phot1‐5 phot2‐1 double mutant expressing an AtPHOT2‐GFP (P2G) fusion protein. Chloroplast avoidance and phototropic responses of P2G transgenic lines were enhanced in a manner dependent on the P2G levels, whereas the leaf flattening phenotype was simply complemented by P2G equivalent to the wild type (WT) PHOT2 level. The chloroplast avoidance velocity of P2G transgenic lines exhibited enhanced sensitivity to BL in comparison with WT. In contrast, the defect of the phototropic response was rescued by P2G expression equivalent only to the response of the phot1 mutant. These results collectively indicate that each BL response has distinct threshold levels of PHOT2 requirement.
Effects of non‐cytotoxic drugs on the growth of multidrug‐resistance human gastric carcinoma cell line
Authors: WANG Chun Hui , ZHENG Wen Bin , QIANG Ou , TANG Cheng Wei
Published: April 2009

OBJECTIVE:   To investigate the effects of the non‐cytotoxic drug (cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) inhibitor and octreotide) on growth of the multidrug‐resistant human gastric carcinoma cell line SGC‐7901/ADR.

METHODS:   The effects of non‐cytotoxic drug on the growth of SGC‐7901 and SGC‐7901/ADR cells were evaluated by 3H‐thymidine incorporation assay. The apoptosis of cells was measured by the TdT‐mediated dUTP nick end‐labeling assay (TUNEL) and flow cytometric assay. Western blotting was used to analysis the expression of cyclooxygenase (COX‐2) protein in SGC‐7901 cells and SGC‐7901/ADR cells and P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) from SGC‐7901/ADR cells with variable treatments. Activator protein‐1 binding activity was examined by electrophoretic mobility shift assay.

RESULTS:   3H‐thymidine incorporation into SGC‐7901/ADR cells treated with celecoxib was significantly lower than that of control group (471.3 ± 79.7 cpm vs 917.5 ± 130.8 cpm, P < 0.05). When combined with octreotide, celecoxib presented lower 3H‐thymidine incorporations than its used alone and decreased to 53.3% of that amount original. Either celecoxib or the combination group markedly induced apoptosis in SGC‐7901/ADR cells. COX‐2 protein in the SGC‐7901/ADR cells was higher than in that of the SGC‐7901 cells (1.543 ± 0.052 vs 0.564 ± 0.021, P < 0.05). The inhibition of P‐gp could be achieved with celecoxib alone and combination with octreotide (0.486 ± 0.012, 0.252 ± 0.014 vs 0.941 ± 0.033, P < 0.05). Moreover, AP‐1 binding activity could be suppressed by non‐cytotoxic drug and showed a synergistic effect.

CONCLUSION:   The combination of non‐cytotoxic drug significantly improved the inhibitive effects on the growth of multidrug‐resistant human gastric cancer cells.
Association of the CagA status of Helicobacter pylori and serum levels of interleukin (IL)‐17 and IL‐23 in duodenal ulcer patients
Authors: JAFARZADEH Abdollah , MIRZAEE Vahid , AHMAD‐BEYGI Hossain , NEMATI Maryam , REZAYATI Mohammad Taghi
Published: April 2009

OBJECTIVE:   It has been reported that the cytotoxin‐associated gene A (cagA+) H. pylori strains induce severe gastric mucosal inflammation. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of the virulence factor CagA with IL‐17 and IL‐23 serum levels in duodenal ulcer (DU) patients and H. pylori‐infected asymptomatic (AS) carriers.

METHODS:   In total, 45 H. pylori‐infected DU patients were enrolled to study: 23 tested positive for the anti‐CagA antibody (anti‐CagA+) and 22 tested negative for the anti‐CagA antibody (anti‐CagA‐), 30 were AS carriers (15 were anti‐CagA+ and 15 were anti‐CagA‐) and 15 were healthy uninfected participants (as a control group). The IL‐17 and IL‐23 serum levels of participants were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay method.

RESULTS:   The mean IL‐17 levels in DU patients were significantly higher than those in AS and control groups (P < 0.001 and P < 0.0001 respectively). In the DU group, the mean IL‐17 levels in participants testing positive for anti‐CagA (10.84 ± 5.79 pg/mL) were significantly higher than those observed in participants testing negative for anti‐CagA (7.65 ± 4.74 pg/mL; P < 0.05). The mean IL‐23 levels in the DU and AS groups were significantly higher than in the control group (P < 0.02 and P < 0.03 respectively) but were not significantly different in participants testing positive and negative for anti‐CagA.

CONCLUSION:   These results showed higher IL‐17 and IL‐23 serum levels in H. pylori‐infected participants than in the control group. In the DU group the expression of IL‐17 was influenced by the CagA factor.
Validity of FibroScan values for predicting hepatic fibrosis stage in patients with chronic HCV infection
Authors: TAKEMOTO Ryosuke , NAKAMUTA Makoto , AOYAGI Yoko , FUJINO Tatsuya , YASUTAKE Kenichiro , KOGA Kotaro , YOSHIMOTO Tsuyoshi , MIYAHARA Toshihiko , FUKUIZUMI Kunitaka , WADA Yoshiyuki , TAKAMI Yuko , SAITSU Hideki , HARADA Naohiko , NAKASHIMA Manabu , ENJOJI Munechika
Published: April 2009

OBJECTIVE:  The aim of this study was to validate the FibroScan system compared with liver histology and serum markers for the diagnosis of hepatic fibrosis. We also tried to determine the cut‐off levels and assess the feasibility of using FibroScan values to predict the fibrosis stage.

METHODS:  In 44 patients with HCV infection, liver stiffness was evaluated by FibroScan, serum fibrosis markers and a liver biopsy. Associations between these indices were also analyzed.

RESULTS:  FibroScan values showed a good correlation with serum levels of type IV collagen, hyaluronic acid and procollagen‐III‐peptide, and with the platelet count. Compared with liver histology, the FibroScan values increased proportionally with the progression of the histological fibrosis stage. Advanced fibrosis (F3 or F4) could be efficiently predicted by a FibroScan cut‐off value of 15 kPa. The FibroScan sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy were 100%, 73.9%, 77.8%, 100%, and 86.4%, respectively.

CONCLUSION:  FibroScan values gave a good correlation with various markers of fibrosis and increased proportionally with the progression of the hepatic fibrosis stage. A FibroScan value of 15 kPa was found to be a significant separation limit for differentiating advanced fibrosis stages (F3 and F4) from the milder stages (F0–F2). FibroScan values are clinically useful for predicting the fibrosis stages and helpful in managing interferon therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C.
A set of 16 consensus primer pairs amplifying the complete mitochondrial genomes of orange‐spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides) and Hong Kong grouper (Epinephelus akaara)
Authors: ZHUANG XUAN , DING SHAOXIONG , WANG JUN , WANG YING , SU YONGQUAN
Published: April 2009

Groupers are of considerable economic value; however, their classification and evolutionary relationships have long been hindered by the overwhelming number of species and lack of morphological specializations. Mitochondrial genome is a source of original markers that are potentially useful in the study of phylogeny and population genetics of groupers. We describe a set of 16 new primer pairs that allow PCR amplification of the entire mitochondrial genomes of orange‐spotted grouper and Hong Kong grouper. This primer set has been defined for consensus over eight other grouper species, facilitating further studies on the molecular evolution and population genetics of groupers.
Effects of estrogen and androgen deprivation on the progression of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) in male Sprague–Dawley rats
Authors: Mu Yanjun , She Ruiping , Zhang Hua , Dong Bing , Huang Chengfei , Lin Wei , Li Defa , Li Xiangdong
Published: April 2009

Aim:  We studied the mechanisms of estrogen/androgen involvement in the induction of NASH by treating Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats fed with a normal or high fat (HF) diet by depriving them of endogenous estrogens/androgens.

Methods:  Male adult SD rats (n = 10/group) on normal or HF diets were treated for 75 days either with tamoxifen (Tam) or flutamide (Flu) or Tam + Flu in order to induce NASH. We analyzed histopathologically the liver samples from the treated groups for NASH, checked the serum biochemical and lipid profile markers and finally analyzed the signal pathways underlying the molecular mechanisms for the induction process of NASH.

Results:  Deprivation of endogenous estrogens and/or androgens (Tam or Flu or Tam + Flu) without the HF diet did not induce NASH. Tam or Tam + Flu induced NASH, compared to milder lesions without fibrosis in HF diet and Flu‐treated liver. Serum alanine aminotransferase or lipid profile markers further proved the Tam, Flu or Tam + Flu effects on the induction of NASH in conjunction with a HF diet. Tam treatment predominantly downregulated the ERα and FAS and upregulated UCP2 and TNF‐α.

Conclusions:  Deprivation of endogenous estrogen/androgens in conjunction with a HF diet may induce NASH where the downregulated ERα and FAS, and upregulated UCP2 and TNF‐α could be involved in their molecular pathomechanism pathways. These results could suggest the potential negative roles of estrogenic/androgenic depriving compounds in the induction of NASH, along with obesity.
Relationships between Low Serum Cobalamin Concentrations and Methlymalonic Acidemia in Cats
Authors: Ruaux C. G. , Steiner J. M. , Williams D. A.
Published: April 2009

Background:Serum cobalamin concentrations below reference range are a common consequence of gastrointestinal disease in cats. Serum cobalamin ≤ 100 ng/L is associated with methylmalonic acidemia.

Objectives:To determine the prevalence of cobalamin deficiency, defined by elevated serum methylmalonic acid (MMA), in cats with serum cobalamin ≤ 290 ng/L, and the optimum serum cobalamin concentration to predict cobalamin deficiency in cats.

Sample Set:Residual serum samples (n = 206) from cats with serum cobalamin ≤ 290 ng/L.

Methods:Retrospective, observational study. Serum cobalamin and folate were measured with automated assays. Serum MMA was determined by gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry. Cobalamin deficiency was defined as serum MMA > 867 nmol/L. Sensitivity and specificity of serum cobalamin concentrations ≤290 ng/L for detecting MMA > 867 nmol/L were analyzed using a receiver‐operator characteristic curve.

Results:There was a negative correlation between serum cobalamin and MMA concentrations (Spearman'sr=−0.74,P< 0.0001). The prevalence of MMA ≥ 867 nmol/L in cats with serum cobalamin ≤ 290 ng/L was 68.4%. Serum cobalamin ≤ 160 ng/L had a 74% sensitivity and 80% specificity for detecting MMA > 867 nmol/L. No significant difference in serum folate concentrations was detected between affected and unaffected cats.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance:Elevated MMA concentrations, suggesting cobalamin deficiency, are common in cats with serum cobalamin ≤ 290 ng/L. Cobalamin deficiency is clinically significant, and supplementation with parenteral cobalamin is recommended for cats with gastrointestinal disease and low serum cobalamin concentrations.
Sequencing of the Von Hippel‐Lindau Gene in Canine Renal Carcinoma
Authors: Pressler B. M. , Williams L. E. , Ramos‐Vara J. A. , Anderson K. I.
Published: April 2009

Background: Similarities in human and canine renal cell carcinoma (RCC) epidemiology and biologic behavior suggest that molecular mechanisms of tumorigenesis may be similar in both species. Approximately 75% of RCC in people are of the clear cell subtype, up to 85% of which are associated with mutation of the von Hippel‐Lindau (VHL) gene. The canine VHL coding deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) shares 90% identity with the human VHL gene.

Objective: To determine whether or not RCC in dogs are associated with VHL mutations, and if so determine the prevalence, type, and location of these mutations.

Animals: Thirteen dogs with RCC, 2 dogs with primary renal sarcomas, and 10 dogs without neoplastic kidney disease.

Methods: DNA was extracted from paraffin‐embedded RCC tissue; DNA extracts from paraffin‐embedded and snap‐frozen nonneoplastic canine kidneys and canine whole blood were used as negative controls. Polymerase chain reaction and sequencing of the 3 VHL exons was performed, and results compared with the accessioned canine sequence.

Results: All VHL exons were amplified from 9 of 13 canine RCC samples, both renal sarcomas, 8 of 10 nonneoplastic kidney samples, and canine whole blood; only exon 2 could be amplified from 2 RCC samples. Mutations were not identified in any exons. A maximal prevalence of 33.6% for VHL mutations in canine RCC was determined.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance: Although similarities between canine and human RCC merit further investigation of the dog as a model for some subtypes of renal tumors, the lower prevalence of VHL mutations suggests that oncogenesis in these 2 species differs.