bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Skeletal pathology and congenital variations in the Maltese Pleistocene hippopotamus
Authors: Maempel George Zammit
Published: July 2009

A first time report is submitted concerning pathological and other changes presented by the post‐cranial bones of some 160 specimens of the Pleistocene hippopotamus (H. pentlandi and H. melitensis) from Ghar Dalam Cave, near St George's Bay, Birzebbuga, Malta, and now preserved in the Museum overlying the Cave. This material manifests such obvious lesions ab vertebral and metapodial osteo‐arthritis. metapodial and phalangeal exostosis, phalangcal cavitation and fracture, ossification of the atlantal (‘of the atlas’) transverse ligament, as well as such congenital variations as atlantal occipitalization and‘fusion’of the second and third cervical vertebrae. Osteo‐arthritis is notably prevalent in the thoracic vertebrae, wherein its effects are peculiarly destructive.
Trophic exchange in Pardosa hortensis (Lycosidae, Araneae)
Authors: Vannini M. , Conti A. , Ferretti J. , Becciolini A.
Published: July 2009

Young Pardosa hortensis not only need their mother's help to leave their cocoon once developed (about 20 days), as they are unable to open it by themselves, but also during the period they are carried around in the cocoon. Using radioactive markers, indirect evidence revealed that the mother periodically opens the cocoon to feed her young and reseals it with fresh silk. Water is probably the main component in trophic exchange.
Experimental fluoride accumulation and toxicity in the short‐tailed field vole (Micvotus agrestis)
Authors: Boulton I. C. , Cooke J. A. , Johnson M. S.
Published: July 2009

Vegetation established naturally on three industrial sites contaminated by either airborne or soilborne fluorides was used to formulate dietary feed for a laboratory‐reared population of field voles (Microtus ugrestisL.), an herbivorous species indigenous to all three locations. Animals exposed to laboratory diets containing 100–300 mg F kg‐1derived from vegetation from around the aluminium smelter and fluorochemical works showed reduced live weight gain, between 40 and 100% mortality and developed marked dental lesions. These comprised banding of the enamel, loss of colour and erosion of the cutting surfaces of the incisors, and dentine cavitation and erosion of the grinding faces of the molar teeth. These morphological changes were accompanied by excessive accumulation of fluoride in the teeth. Voles consuming a diet of vegetation from the mine tailings site with a similar level of fluoride (100 mg kg‐1) as for the other industrial locations, showed only slight dental changes and no weight loss or early mortality. This pattern for laboratory‐bred voles is similar to that experienced in populations of this species in the wild, and the contrast in the severity of the dental lesions is ascribed to intersite differences in the chemical speciation and bioavailability of fluoride.
Use of lamplit roads by foraging bats in southern England
Authors: Blake D. , Hutson A. M. , Racey P. A. , Rydell J. , Speakman J. R.
Published: July 2009

Roads illuminated by white streetlamps attracted three times more foraging bats (mostly Pipistrellus pipistrellus) than did roads lit by orange streetlamps or unlit roads (3.2, 1.2 and 0.7 bat passes/km, respectively). More insects flew around white lamps than around orange lamps (mean 0.67 and 0.083 insects per lamp, respectively). The mean number of bat passes recorded in any 1‐km section of road was positively correlated to the number of white streetlamps along the section, and also, independently, to the amount of trees and hedgerows. Bat activity was not related to the number of houses along the road, ambient temperature or cloud cover. The attractive effect of the lamps on the bats was diminished in windy weather.
Resource utilization and guild structure of small vertebrates in the Amazon forest leaf litter
Authors: J. Vitt Laurie , Caldwell Janalee P.
Published: July 2009

Ten species of small vertebrates that occurred together in leaf litter of the Amazon tropical rainforest were studied during the dry season in Rondônia, western Brazil. This vertebrate assemblage consisted of two diurnal lizards, two diurnal frogs, one nocturnal frog, and five frog species that are active by day and night. All species feed on small invertebrates, primarily insects and arachnids. There are significant differences in prey types and sizes eaten, and overlap values among species are relatively low. Niche breadths vary from unity (extremely low) to high (> 9.0). A pseudocommunity analysis using two different algorithms indicated that structure exists in the prey resource matrix of the vertebrate assemblage. The zero structure of the community matrix contributes to the observed structure, i.e. prey items not taken by certain species are important in maintaining structure. Several well‐defined feeding guilds are apparent, and the feeding guilds do not appear to follow taxonomic lines.
The effect of drought on the large mammal populations of Zambezi riverine woodlands
Authors: Dunham Kevin M.
Published: July 2009

Large mammals were counted in Zambezi alluvial woodlands and on the adjacent ecotone in the north of Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe, from April 1981 until October 1989. Densities of all large herbivores on the alluvium in the daytime increased during the dry season. Year‐to‐year variation was studied by comparing end‐of‐dry‐season densities. Flooding of the Zambezi River, controlled by Kariba Dam 100 km upstream, ceased in 1981 and the densities of all species on the alluvium declined in 1982. Rainfall was low in 1982 and very low in 1983 and 1984. The density of buffalo in the study area declined, owing to high mortality and a change in habitat utilization (buffalo herds spent more time in the south of the park). Densities of other species were high during the drought, but the densities of waterbuck, kudu, eland, bushbuck and warthog declined in 1985. Zebra density declined on the ecotone, but not on the alluvium. The densities of eland and kudu increased in 1986 and 1988, respectively, but the densities of the other species were still low in 1989. Impala density on the alluvium in October was related to rainfall during the preceding wet season and was high in drought years. Elephant density declined after a management cull. Rhinoceros density decreased by > 90% during the 1985/6 wet season, as a result of poaching and captures. The long‐term decline in the densities of grazers was probably due primarily to the cessation of flooding by the Zambezi River, rather than to low local rainfall in some years. During the drought, the large grazers (e.g. buffalo) died before the smaller grazers (e.g. warthog). Waterbuck density declined less than the density of other grazers, because waterbuck could cross to vegetated sandbanks in the Zambezi River.
Age‐specific reproductive performance of female polar bears (Ursus maritimus)
Authors: Derocherand A. E. , Stirling I.
Published: July 2009

Age‐specific patterns of maternal weight, litter size, litter weight and reproductive effort were investigated for polar bears (Ursus maritimus) from western Hudson Bay. Most relationships were described by quadratic equations. Maternal weight in spring and autumn increased until 17 and 15 years of age, respectively, and then declined. Age‐related increases in maternal weight were thought to be associated with improving hunting skills. The relationships between age and litter size, litter weight and reproductive effort, in both the spring and autumn, increased until 14 to 16 years, followed by a decline. We speculate that age‐related decreases in reproductive performance are due to undetennined processes associated with ageing that impair the accumulation of fat stores necessary for reproduction. Pregnant females lost an average of 127 kg overwinter which represented an average of 43.5% of their autumn weight. Fat stores remaining after the overwinter fast may be critical for maintaining an energy supply to cubs once they return to the sea ice where the distribution and abundance of their prey is unpredictable. We suggest that maternal condition is an important factor contributing to lifetime reproductive success in polar bears.
Hepatic respiratory compensation and blood volume in the frog (Rana esculenta)
Authors: Frangioniand G. , Borgioli G.
Published: July 2009

In the frog, Rana esculenta (L.), the liver can change in volume by over 25%, depending on the respiratory conditions of the animal: in well‐oxygenated specimens the organ can hoard about half of the total amount of erythrocytes in its sinusoids, and release them into the bloodstream under conditions of hypoxia. This phenomenon can be observed at a temperature of 6°C by comparing the liver volumes and haematic values of chlorobutanol‐anaesthetized animals exposed to the air or submerged in still water (a condition which induces hypoxia): the blood volume remains constant, at about 5 ml per 100g of body weight, but red blood cell count and haematocrit value differ by as much as 50%. At 18°C there is an increase in oxygen demand and in anaesthetized animals, which rely totally on cutaneous respiration, the compensatory liver mechanism can no longer be observed, since all the available erythrocytes are already circulating in a blood volume which, depending on respiratory conditions, can vary between about 7 and 8ml/100g. At 30°C, cutaneous respiration alone does not allow the anaesthetized animals to survive long enough to stabilize their haematic parameters.
Patterns of territory size and defence level in rural and urban tawny owl (Strix aluco) populations
Authors: Galeotti Paolo
Published: July 2009

The effect of different variables on the territory size and defence level of tawny owl (Strix aluco L.) populations was studied in two habitats: mixed farmland (1976–1978) and town (1986–1988). Territory size was determined by plotting the position of territorial challenges (hoots) of males which were individually recognizable in most cases. No differences were found in size, defence, number of competitors and biomass between territories in farmland and in town, but territories in town were more fragmented and showed a larger nearest neighbour distance. Size of rural territories was adequately predicted both by some structural habitat features and food supplies, while size of urban territories was affected only by habitat structure and by years of territory occupancy. No effect on territory size by competing neighbours was found in either habitat, thus confirming that behavioural interactions between the owners of territories and potential settlers prevent a decrease of territory size.

Defence level of urban territories was affected by 'social’variables (nearest neighbour distance and years of occupancy), structural variables (percentage of poplar grove and diversity), and food supply, while in rural territories only structural variables (fragmentation or natural vegetation) and food supplies affected defence level.

This was due to different settlement tactics in the two areas, depending on the extent and quality of suitable habitat.
The ontogenetic shift in thermoregulatory behaviour of newt larvae: testing the ‘enemy‐free temperatures’ hypothesis
Authors: Smolinský R. , Gvoždík L.
Published: July 2009

Growth and development affect life‐history traits, and consequently organismal fitness. The inevitable increase in body size during ontogeny is associated with changes in both resource use and predation risk, which results in the ontogenetic shift in habitat preferences. In this study, we examined whether the shift in preferred body temperatures (Tps) of newt larvae Triturus alpestris increases the Tps deviation of the most vulnerable stages (after hatching and during metamorphosis) from the Tps range of their main predator, dragonfly larvae Aeshna cyanea– the ‘predator‐free temperatures’ hypothesis. Analyses of thermoregulatory behaviour in the laboratory thermal gradient showed that freshly hatched newt larvae maintained lower water temperatures than larvae in later stages, whose Tps largely fell into the Tps range of dragonfly larvae. With respect to the thermal quality of natural habitat, the anti‐predator effectiveness of the Tps shift decreased during development. Water temperatures in natural habitats were located largely below the preferred body temperature range of both newt and dragonfly larvae, which limits their potential thermal niche partitioning. We conclude that factors other than predator avoidance drive the ontogenetic Tps shift in our model system.
Evolutionary pathways to self‐fertilization in a tristylous plant species
Authors: Barrett Spencer C. H. , Ness Rob W. , Vallejo‐Marín Mario
Published: July 2009

Evolutionary transitions from outcrossing to selfing occur commonly in heterostylous genera. The morphological polymorphisms that characterize heterostyly provide opportunities for different pathways for selfing to evolve. Here, we investigate the origins and pathways by which selfing has evolved in tristylousEichhornia paniculataby providing new evidence based on morphology, DNA sequences and genetic analysis. The primary pathway from outcrossing to selfing involves the stochastic loss of the short‐styled morph (S‐morph) from trimorphic populations, followed by the spread of selfing variants of the mid‐styled morph (M‐morph). However, the discovery of selfing variants of the long‐styled morph (L‐morph) in Central America indicates a secondary pathway and distinct origin for selfing. Comparisons of multi‐locus nucleotide sequences from 27 populations sampled from throughout the geographical range suggest multiple transitions to selfing. Genetic analysis of selfing variants of the L‐ and M‐morphs demonstrates recessive control of the loss of herkogamy, although the number of factors appears to differ between the forms. Early stages in the establishment of selfing involve developmental instability in the formation of flowers capable of autonomous self‐pollination. The relatively simple genetic control of herkogamy reduction and frequent colonizing episodes may often create demographic conditions favouring transitions to selfing inE. paniculata.
Controlling the reproductive fate of rhizobia: how universal are legume sanctions?
Authors: Oono Ryoko , Denison R. Ford , Kiers E. Toby
Published: July 2009

Contents

Summary
967

I.
Introduction
967

II.
Evolutionary history: is host‐imposed rhizobial dimorphism ancestral or derived in legumes?
970

III.
Are there immediate benefits to individual plants from rhizobial dimorphism?
970

IV.
How does dimorphism affect rhizobial evolution?
972

V.
How might sanctions differ when bacteroids are nonreproductive?
974

VI.
Conclusions
977

Acknowledgements
978

References
978
Haploinsufficiency of the nerve growth factor beta gene in a 1p13 deleted female child with an insensitivity to pain
Authors: FITZGIBBON GREGORY J , KINGSTON HELEN , NEEDHAM MARGARET , GAUNT LORRAINE
Published: July 2009

Pain insensitivity is mediated at the genetic level by the disruption of specific genes associated with neuronal development. Mammalian in vivo and in vitro studies have shown the nerve growth factor (NGF) gene to play an integral role in nerve maintenance and function. Pain insensitivity in humans can be attributed to hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathies (HSAN) of which there are five classes (HSAN I – HSAN V). The human nerve growth factor beta gene (NGFB) located on chromosome 1p13.2 has been found to cause HSAN V within individuals homozygous for a point mutation in NGFB. Although heterozygotes can display a milder phenotype, this has only been observed in adults. We report a karyotypically normal 5‐year‐old female with developmental delay, mild facial dysmorphism, and unsteady gait. Pain and thermal insensitivity were noted as were recurrent mouth ulcers, facial flushing, recurrent episodes of increased body temperature and unexplained sweating, indicative of a sensory neuropathy with mild autonomic involvement. Array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) analysis revealed a de‐novo deletion within chromosome 1p13 of the child involving the NGFB gene. Sequence analysis of the homologous NGFB gene identified no mutation, implying that sensory neuropathy was caused by haploinsufficiency of the NGFB gene.
Correlates of mental health disorders among children with hearing impairments
Authors: FELLINGER JOHANNES , HOLZINGER DANIEL , SATTEL HERIBERT , LAUCHT MANFRED , GOLDBERG DAVID
Published: July 2009

Aim  The aim of this study was to elucidate factors related to the high rate of mental health disorders seen in those with impaired hearing, including social factors and audiological measures.

Method  A representative sample of 95 pupils (47 females, 48 males; mean age 11y 1mo, range 6y 5mo to 16y, SD 2y 7mo) with hearing impairments of at least 40dB and normal non‐verbal intelligence (IQ 97.5, SD 19.5), was assessed audiologically and with a structured clinical interview giving both current and lifetime diagnoses, and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Detailed social information was gathered from parents and teachers.

Results  Point and lifetime prevalence rates for any psychiatric disorder (32.6%; 45.3%) and depression (7.4%; 26.3%) were higher than in general population samples and not related to the degree of hearing loss. There was a relation between having a lifetime diagnosis and the child’s ability to be understood within the family (25.6% vs 7.7%, odds ratio 4.12 [1.2–14.1], p=0.02). Internalizing mental health disorders were between three and six times more likely in those who had been teased, maltreated by classmates, or isolated.

Interpretation  We conclude that the increased risk of depression in those who have been teased, isolated, or maltreated is not peculiar to deafness, but the ability to make oneself understood is, and is modestly related (r=0.22–0.34) to the probability of these adverse experiences.
Gender Levees: Rethinking Women's Land Rights in Northeastern Honduras
Authors: CASOLO JENNIFER
Published: July 2009

In the aftermath of Hurricane Mitch, one woman's impassioned speech linking women's exclusion from land rights with the failings of Honduras' state‐led agrarian reform and counter‐reform gathered gale force, simultaneously weakening particular levees of gender‐bias while constructing others. Post‐Hurricane Mitch organizational practices and reconstruction policies in Northeastern Honduras afforded women access to joint property titles and participation. Yet the practices and processes through which women gained new rights reproduced certain exclusionary gender structures and created new barriers to women's participation. These contradictory consequences speak to recent feminist assessments of women's land rights under neo‐liberal land titling programmes and a resurgence of policies addressing agrarian reform, and reveal the broader stakes of struggles for women's land rights. In so doing, they underline the importance of attending to spatial connections and historical articulations between the present and the past, and thus the past and the future.
Serotonin released from amacrine neurons is scavenged and degraded in bipolar neurons in the retina
Authors: Ghai Kanika , Zelinka Christopher , Fischer Andy J.
Published: July 2009

The neurotransmitter serotonin is synthesized in the retina by one type of amacrine neuron but accumulates in bipolar neurons in many vertebrates. The mechanisms, functions and purpose underlying serotonin accumulation in bipolar cells remain unknown. Here, we demonstrate that exogenous serotonin transiently accumulates in a distinct type of bipolar neuron. KCl‐mediated depolarization causes the depletion of serotonin from amacrine neurons and, subsequently, serotonin is taken‐up by bipolar neurons. The accumulation of endogenous and exogenous serotonin by bipolar neurons is blocked by selective reuptake inhibitors. Exogenous serotonin is specifically taken‐up by bipolar neurons even when serotonin‐synthesizing amacrine neurons are destroyed; excluding the possibility that serotonin diffuses through gap junctions from amacrine into bipolar neurons. Further, inhibition of monoamine oxidase A prevents the degradation of serotonin in bipolar neurons, suggesting that monoamine oxidase A is present in these neurons. However, the vesicular monoamine transporter 2 is present only in amacrine cells suggesting that serotonin is not transported into synaptic vesicles and reused as a transmitter in the bipolar neurons. We conclude that the serotonin‐accumulating bipolar neurons perform glial functions in the retina by actively transporting and degrading serotonin that is synthesized in neighboring amacrine cells.
Hypothalamic neuronal histamine signaling in the estrogen deficiency‐induced obesity
Authors: Gotoh Koro , Masaki Takayuki , Chiba Seiichi , Higuchi Keiko , Kakuma Tetsuya , Shimizu Hiroyuki , Mori Masatomo , Sakata Toshiie , Yoshimatsu Hironobu
Published: July 2009

Menopause is one of the triggers that induce obesity. Estradiol (E2), corticotropin‐releasing hormone (CRH), and hypothalamic neuronal histamine are anorexigenic substances within the hypothalamus. This study examined the interactions among E2, CRH, and histamine during the regulation of feeding behavior and obesity in rodents. Food intake was measured in rats after the treatment of E2, α‐fluoromethyl histidine, a specific suicide inhibitor of histidine decarboxylase that depletes hypothalamic neuronal histamine, or CRH antagonist. We measured food intake and body weight in wild‐type mice or mice with targeted disruption of the histamine receptors (H1‐R) knockout (H1KO mice). Furthermore, we investigated CRH content and histamine turnover in the hypothalamus after the E2 treatment or ovariectomy (OVX). We used immunohistochemical staining for estrogen receptors (ERs) in the histamine neurons. The E2‐induced suppression of feeding was partially attenuated in rats pre‐treated with α‐fluoromethyl histidine or CRH antagonist and in H1KO mice. E2 treatment increased CRH content and histamine turnover in the hypothalamus. OVX increased food intake and body weight, and decreased CRH content and histamine turnover in the hypothalamus. In addition, E2 replacement reversed the OVX‐induced changes in food intake and body weight in wild‐type mice but not in H1KO mice. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed ERs were expressed on histamine neurons and western blotting analysis and pre‐absorption study confirmed the specificity of ER antiserum we used. These results indicate that CRH and hypothalamic neuronal histamine mediate the suppressive effects of E2 on feeding behavior and body weight.
HumanS‐adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase: common gene sequence variation and functional genomic characterization
Authors: Feng Qiping , Keshtgarpour Mani , Pelleymounter Linda L. , Moon Irene , Kalari Krishna R. , Eckloff Bruce W. , Wieben Eric D. , Weinshilboum Richard M.
Published: July 2009

S‐Adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase (AHCY) is the only mammalian enzyme known to catalyze the hydrolysis ofS‐adenosylhomocysteine. We have used a genotype‐to‐phenotype strategy to study this important enzyme by resequencingAHCYin 240 DNA samples from four ethnic groups. Thirty‐nine polymorphisms were identified – 28 of which were novel. Functional genomic studies for wild type AHCY and the three variant allozymes identified showed that two variant allozymes had slight, but significant decreases in enzyme activity, but with no significant differences in levels of immunoreactive protein. Luciferase reporter gene assays for common 5′‐flanking region haplotypes revealed that one haplotype with a frequency of ∼2% in Caucasian‐American subjects displayed a decreased ability to drive transcription. The variant nucleotide at 5′‐flanking region single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) (−34) in that haplotype altered the DNA‐protein binding pattern during electrophoresis mobility shift assay. Finally, an AHCY genotype‐phenotype association study for expression in lymphoblastoid cells identified four SNPs that were associated with decreased expression. For the IVS6 (intervening sequence 6, i.e., intron 6) G56 > C SNP among those four, electrophoresis mobility shift assay showed that a C > G nucleotide change resulted in an additional shifted band. These results represent a step toward understanding the functional consequences of common genetic variation inAHCYfor the regulation of neurotransmitter, drug and macromolecule methylation.
Facilitating and evaluating a student‐led seminar series on global health issues as an opportunity for interprofessional learning for health science students
Authors: Cooper Brian A. , MacMillan Beth D. , Beck Ranit A. , Paterson Margo L.
Published: July 2009

Pre‐licensure interprofessional education (IPE) is often cited as an important foundation in promoting collaboration between healthcare professionals. Due to administrative and attitudinal challenges that can arise in delivering IPE, pre‐licensure healthcare students are rarely given the opportunity to learn together. As a result of the lack of opportunity in the formal curricula, an interprofessional student group developed and coordinated a 10‐week, extracurricular seminar series on global health for medicine, nursing and occupational and physical therapy students at a Canadian university in 2006. This seminar series featured multi‐disciplinary experts in global health and integrated interprofessional problem‐based learning. Using qualitative methods, including focus groups, student reflections and pre‐ and post‐course surveys, specific areas were evaluated as follows: participants’ attitudes towards IPE; the appropriateness of using global health as a vehicle for IPE; and the perceived obstacles and benefits of the IPE experience provided by this seminar series. The evaluation findings highlight the unique benefits and drawbacks of using global health as a vehicle for IPE, the value of sharing a common interest between professions in delivering IPE, perceived practice implications resulting from this seminar series and recommendations in delivering such an initiative. Also, while providing many of the same benefits in the promotion of collaboration between professions as recognized in formal IPE, this student‐run, extracurricular model was shown to limit administrative obstacles, facilitate self‐directed learning and integrate a diverse population of students. Overall, the model and content described was shown to serve as a beneficial and unique means of delivering IPE.
Calorie restriction alters mitochondrial protein acetylation
Authors: Schwer Bjoern , Eckersdorff Mark , Li Yu , Silva Jeffrey C. , Fermin Damian , Kurtev Martin V. , Giallourakis Cosmas , Comb Michael J. , Alt Frederick W. , Lombard David B.
Published: July 2009

Calorie restriction (CR) increases lifespan in organisms ranging from budding yeast through mammals. Mitochondrial adaptation represents a key component of the response to CR. Molecular mechanisms underlying this adaptation are largely unknown. Here we show that lysine acetylation of mitochondrial proteins is altered during CR in a tissue‐specific fashion. Via large‐scale mass spectrometry screening, we identify 72 candidate proteins involved in a variety of metabolic pathways with altered acetylation during CR. Mitochondrial acetylation changes may play an important role in the pro‐longevity CR response.
d4eBP acts downstream of both dTOR and dFoxo to modulate cardiac functional aging in Drosophila
Authors: Wessells Robert , Fitzgerald Erin , Piazza Nicole , Ocorr Karen , Morley Samantha , Davies Claire , Lim Hui‐Ying , Elmén Lisa , Hayes Michael , Oldham Sean , Bodmer Rolf
Published: July 2009

dTOR (target of rapamycin) and dFoxo respond to changes in the nutritional environment to induce a broad range of responses in multiple tissue types. Both dTOR and dFoxo have been demonstrated to control the rate of age‐related decline in cardiac function. Here, we show that the Eif4e‐binding protein (d4eBP) is sufficient to protect long‐term cardiac function against age‐related decline and that up‐regulation of dEif4e is sufficient to recapitulate the effects of high dTOR or insulin signaling. We also provide evidence that d4eBP acts tissue‐autonomously and downstream of dTOR and dFoxo in the myocardium, where it enhances cardiac stress resistance and maintains normal heart rate and myogenic rhythm. Another effector of dTOR and insulin signaling, dS6K, may influence cardiac aging nonautonomously through its activity in the insulin‐producing cells, possibly by regulating dilp2 expression. Thus, elevating d4eBP activity in cardiac tissue represents an effective organ‐specific means for slowing or reversing cardiac functional changes brought about by normal aging.
Saturated Lightweight Aggregate for Internal Curing in Low w/c Mixtures: Monitoring Water Movement Using X‐ray Absorption
Authors: Henkensiefken R. , Nantung T. , Weiss J.
Published: July 2009

Abstract:  The susceptibility for early‐age shrinkage cracking in low w/c concrete has led to the development of new technologies that can reduce the risk of cracking. Internal curing, one of these new technologies, uses saturated lightweight aggregate to supply ‘curing water’ to low w/c pastes as they hydrate. While significant research has been performed to determine the effects of internal curing on shrinkage and stress development, relatively little detailed information exists on movement of water from the LWA to the paste. The details of when water moves and how far it travels has implications on the volume of aggregate and the aggregate gradation that should be used in mixture proportioning with internal curing. This study examines the timing of the release of water from saturated lightweight aggregate (LWA) and the distance that water can travel. X‐ray absorption is used to determine the time at which water is drawn out of the lightweight aggregate and the loss of water is traced over time. Further, it examines the travel distance of the water into the paste. Experimental details associated with the X‐ray technique are provided to describe the importance of specimen alignment. Further, in sealed specimens, the results indicate little water movement prior to set. After set however, the distance of water movement was as much as 2 mm. The importance of water movement is discussed in terms of mixture proportioning and its influence on shrinkage and stress development.
Soil aggregation and organic carbon in short‐term stockpiles
Authors: Wick A. F. , Stahl P. D. , Ingram L. J. , Vicklund L.
Published: July 2009

Surface mining is known to drastically reduce soil organic carbon (OC) pools through various mechanisms associated with topsoil salvage, stockpiling and respreading. Stockpiling is an important management practice; however, the effects of this practice on reductions and recovery of soil aggregation and aggregate OC are poorly understood. Objectives of this research were to monitor soil aggregation and aggregate OC in the surface of a short‐term stockpile (<3 yr) followed by a second movement of stockpiled soils to a temporary location. Samples were analysed for aggregate size distribution, aggregate fractions, OC, and organic matter turnover using 13C natural abundance. Macroaggregate proportions increased and microaggregate proportions decreased after 3 yr of storage, possibly indicating recovery of soil structure. Following the removal of the stockpile and placement in a temporary pile, macroaggregation decreased and free silt and clay fractions increased relative to initially stockpiled soils. The second disturbance resulted in greater destruction of aggregate structure than the initial disturbance during topsoil salvage. Aggregate organic matter (as indicated by OC) increased significantly between the early sampling of the stockpiled soils (<1 yr in storage) and the placement of the topsoil in a temporary pile in macroaggregates and remained the same for microaggregates. Organic matter not protected within aggregates decreased with storage time as this material was available for utilization by microbes while aggregate protected organic matter (OM) remained unchanged or slightly increased for macro‐ and microaggregates with stockpile storage time. Aggregate δ13C values did not indicate inclusion of new OM within soil aggregates after 3 yr of topsoil stockpiling. Short‐term stockpiling was beneficial for aggregation in the surface layers where plant roots and microbial communities were active; however, subsequent movement of the topsoil resulted in a greater loss of soil aggregation relative to the initial topsoil salvage without impacting soil OC.
Oil Tourism: Disasters and Destinations in Ecuador and the Philippines*
Authors: Widener Patricia
Published: July 2009

This article examines the links between the petroleum and tourism industries by analyzing how an oil disaster, whether actual or perceived, may attract nature‐based tourism interests. To better understand the role of communities, local governments and/or the media in establishing links between the petroleum and tourism industries, this article explores how the construction of an oil pipeline in Ecuador and an oil spill in the Philippines created opportunities for tourism. Each case contributes to our understanding of how an oil disaster supports nature‐based tourism and how both industries supply a resource or an experience to nonlocal consumers, while converging to alter local communities, economies, and ecosystems. Indeed, tourism investments following a disaster may become a sideshow to the disaster that shifts attention from the disaster to participation in new economic opportunities. In addition, tourism may represent ecological alterations, which are more subtle, yet as damaging, as an oil disaster. The proposed model is then applied to two additional cases, the Exxon Valdez oil spill and Hurricane Katrina, to test its use in understanding other postdisaster developments.
Allosteric modulators of NR2B‐containing NMDA receptors: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential
Authors: Mony Laetitia , Kew James NC , Gunthorpe Martin J , Paoletti Pierre
Published: July 2009

N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptors (NMDARs) are ion channels gated by glutamate, the major excitatory neurotransmitter in the mammalian central nervous system (CNS). They are widespread in the CNS and are involved in numerous physiological and pathological processes including synaptic plasticity, chronic pain and psychosis. Aberrant NMDAR activity also plays an important role in the neuronal loss associated with ischaemic insults and major degenerative disorders including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease. Agents that target and alter NMDAR function may, thus, have therapeutic benefit. Interestingly, NMDARs are endowed with multiple extracellular regulatory sites that recognize ions or small molecule ligands, some of which are likely to regulate receptor functionin vivo. These allosteric sites, which differ from agonist‐binding and channel‐permeation sites, provide means to modulate, either positively or negatively, NMDAR activity. The present review focuses on allosteric modulation of NMDARs containing the NR2B subunit. Indeed, the NR2B subunit confers a particularly rich pharmacology with distinct recognition sites for exogenous and endogenous allosteric ligands. Moreover, NR2B‐containing receptors, compared with other NMDAR subtypes, appear to contribute preferentially to pathological processes linked to overexcitation of glutamatergic pathways. The actions of extracellular H+, Mg2+, Zn2+, of polyamines and neurosteroids, and of the synthetic compounds ifenprodil and derivatives (‘prodils’) are presented. Particular emphasis is put upon the structural determinants and molecular mechanisms that underlie the effects exerted by these agents. A better understanding of how NR2B‐containing NMDARs (and NMDARs in general) operate and how they can be modulated should help define new strategies to counteract the deleterious effects of dysregulated NMDAR activity.
An Animal Study of a Newly Developed Skin‐Penetrating Pad and Covering Material for Catheters to Prevent Exit‐Site Infection in Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Aoyama Masato , Mizuno Toshihide , Tatsumi Eisuke , Taenaka Yoshiyuki , Nemoto Yasushi , Okamoto Yoshihiro , Takemoto Yoshiaki , Naganuma Toshihide , Nakatani Tatsuya
Published: July 2009

Because currently available peritoneal dialysis catheters are not sufficiently biocompatible with the skin and subcutaneous tissue at the site of penetration, exit‐site infection due to pericatheter pocket formation caused by epidermal downgrowth over a long period of time has increasingly become a problem. We developed a new, biocompatible, segmented polyurethane porous material and devised a novel skin‐penetrating pad, the form and material of which we optimized for application in peritoneal dialysis catheters. For the extent of tissue ingrowth into this porous material to be examined, test materials with different pore diameters were inserted into hollow silicone tubes and implanted in the subcutaneous tissue of a goat. Four weeks later, the tubes were extracted, and, after the extent of granulation tissue ingrowth was measured, histopathological evaluation was made. Our novel skin‐penetrating pad has three disklike layers of the segmented polyurethane material with different pore sizes, into the center of which a polyurethane catheter is inserted. These pads were implanted in the skin of a goat and clinically observed over a 2‐year period, after which they were extracted and histopathologically analyzed. In accordance with actual clinical procedures, a commercial CAPD catheter equipped with our skin‐penetrating pad was left indwelling in a goat for 4 months, and the performance of the pad was evaluated after repeated periodic infusion and drainage of the dialysate in and out of the abdominal cavity. There was no inflammation of the ingrown tissue in the pores of the segmented polyurethane material as well as the surrounding tissue, which indicated favorable tissue biocompatibility. The extent of tissue ingrowth was greater as the pore size of the material was larger, and the tissue tended to be mature, mainly consisting of collagenous fibers. The skin‐penetrating pad using the porous material, of which tissue ingrowth was thus optimized, tightly adhered to the goat skin throughout the 2‐year experimental period without any special wound care such as cleansing or disinfection. The performance of the skin‐penetrating pad was similarly favorable when attached to a commercial continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis catheter. The newly developed segmented polyurethane porous material had excellent tissue biocompatibility and tissue ingrowth. The skin‐penetrating pad devised by using this porous material did not cause epidermal downgrowth, suggesting that it may be effective for the prevention of exit‐site infection.
Development of an Algorithm to Regulate Pump Output for a Closed Air‐Loop Type Pneumatic Biventricular Assist Device
Authors: Nam Kyoung Won , Lee Jung Joo , Hwang Chang Mo , Choi Jaesoon , Choi Hyuk , Choi Seong Wook , Sun Kyung
Published: July 2009

The closed air space‐type of extracorporeal pneumatic ventricular assist device (VAD) developed by the Korea Artificial Organ Center utilizes a bellows‐transforming mechanism to generate the air pressure required to pump blood. This operating mechanism can reduce the size and weight of the driving unit; however, the output of the blood pump can be affected by the pressure loading conditions of the blood sac. Therefore, to guarantee a proper pump output level, regardless of the pressure loading conditions that vary over time, automatic pump output regulation of the blood pump is required. We describe herein a pump output regulation algorithm that was developed to maintain pump output around a reference level against various afterload pressures, and verified the pump performance in vitro. Based on actual operating conditions in animal experiments, the pumping rate was limited to 40–84 beats per minute, and the afterload pressure was limited to 80–150 mm Hg. The tested reference pump output was 4.0 L/min. During experiments, the pump output was successfully and automatically regulated within the preset area regardless of the varying afterload conditions. The results of this preliminary experiment can be used as the basis for an automatic control algorithm that can enhance the stability and reliability of the applied VAD.
Early Responses in Randomized Clinical Trials of Triptans in Acute Migraine Treatment. Are They Clinically Relevant? A Comment
Authors: Tfelt‐Hansen Peer
Published: July 2009

(Headache 2010;50:1198‐1200)

One can question the clinical relevance of early headache responses after oral and intranasal triptans. Thus, for pain‐free the early responses were significant but in absolute values they were only a few percentages: the therapeutic gains (TGs) were 1.8% (95% CI = 0.3‐3%) for oral almotriptan 12.5 after 30 minutes and 1.0% (95% CI = 0‐2%) after intranasal zolmitriptan 5 mg after 15 minutes. These results are compared with subcutaneous sumatriptan 6 mg which has TGs of 11% (95% CI = 7‐15%) to 14% (95% CI = 11‐17%) for pain‐free after 30 minutes. Subcutaneous sumatriptan has a 2 times higher response rate than intranasal zolmitriptan and is 5 times more effective than oral almotriptan at these early time points. It is concluded that if a very early and clinically relevant effect is desired then the migraine patient should use the subcutaneous administration form of sumatriptan.
Nontraumatic Headaches in the Emergency Department: Evaluation of a Clinical Pathway
Authors: Dutto Luca , Meineri Piero , Melchio Remo , Bracco Christian , Lauria Giuseppe , Sciolla Andrea , Pomero Fulvio , Sturlese Ugo , Grasso Enzo , Tartaglino Bruno
Published: July 2009

Objective.— To determine the impact and efficacy of a clinical pathway in the management of patients with nontraumatic and afebrile headache (NTAH) in the emergency department (ED).

Background.— Nontraumatic and afebrile headache is one of the most common neurological symptoms in the ED. However, data about the application of an evidence‐based operative protocol are lacking.

Methods.— A before–after intervention study comparing adult patients presenting to the ED with atraumatic headache was conducted during a 6‐month period from April to September 2005 and with the same type of patients in the same period in 2006 after a clinical pathway had been implemented. According to their clinical presentations, patients of the 2006 group were divided into 3 subgroups and managed following the established protocol.

Study results were based on analysis of 6 months of clinical outcome, the number of CT head scans in the ED, number of neurological consultations in the ED, number of admissions, and length of stay in the ED.

Results.— A total of 686 patients were enrolled in the study, of which 374 were those presenting to our ED with NTAH in 2006 and managed with the aid of the study protocol; the other 312 patients were those who presented in 2005, before the intervention.

The study protocol was strictly applied to 247 patients (66%) of the 2006 group. There were fewer neurological consultations after the intervention (41.2% vs 52.5%, difference: −11.3%, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: −18.7% to −3.9%; P = .003); likewise, admissions were significantly reduced after the intervention (9.0% vs 14.7%, difference: −5.7%, 95% CI: −10.6% to −0.8%; P = .02). No significant differences were found between the 2 groups for number of CT head scans (42.2% vs 38.4%, difference: 3.7%, 95% CI: −3.5% to 11%; P = .3).

Mean length of stay in the ED was lower after the intervention, though not significantly (170.6 ± 102 minutes vs 180.5 ± 105 minutes, difference: −9.8 minutes, 95% CI: −20.3 to 5.7; P = .09). A 6‐month follow‐up was completed involving 302 (96.7%) patients in the first group and 370 (98.9%) in the second group. There was only one misdiagnosis after the intervention while 2 incorrect diagnoses were made before the intervention (0.27% vs 0.6%, difference: −0.33%, 95% CI: −2.1% to 0.9%; P = .5).

Conclusions.— Our diagnostic protocol for NTAH appears to be safe and sensitive in diagnosing malignant headaches. In addition, it may improve use of resources by reducing the need for neurological consultations and admissions without increasing the number of CT scans or prolonging length of stay in the ED. Furthermore, when using the protocol ED physicians seem more confident in their evaluations of headache resulting in fewer requests for specialist input.
Chronic Tension‐Type Headache With Vitamin D Deficiency: Casual or Causal Association?
Authors: Prakash Sanjay , Shah Nilima D.
Published: July 2009

The prevalence of tension‐type headache and vitamin D deficiency are both very high in the general population. The inter‐relations between the two have not been explored in the literature. We report 8 patients with chronic tension‐type headache and vitamin D deficiency (osteomalacia). All the patients responded poorly to conventional therapy for tension headache. The headache and osteomalacia of each of the 8 patients responded to vitamin D and calcium supplementation. The improvement in the headache was much earlier than the improvements in the symptom complex of osteomalacia. We also speculate on the possible mechanisms for headache in the patients with vitamin D deficiency.
Post‐Traumatic External Nasal Pain Syndrome (a Trigeminal Based Pain Disorder)
Authors: Rozen Todd
Published: July 2009

Little has been written about persistent external nasal pain after injury to the nose in the neurologic or headache literature. In clinical practice, this can be a disabling and treatment refractory condition. The external portion of the nose is highly innervated by branches of the ophthalmic and maxillary divisions of the trigeminal nerve including the nasociliary nerve, external nasal nerve, infratrochlear nerve, anterior ethmoidal nerve, and infraorbital nerve. As these nerves are located on the external portion of the nose just deep enough to the skin they can be easily traumatized with any impact to the nose.

Four patients with what is termed the post‐traumatic external nasal pain syndrome are reported in this paper, describing the clinical presentation of the disorder and providing treatment options. Post‐traumatic external nasal pain syndrome appears to be a novel form of trigeminal‐based pain not previously reported in the neurologic literature.
Effect of Small‐World Networks on Epidemic Propagation and Intervention
Authors: Xu Zengwang , Sui Daniel Z.
Published: July 2009

The small‐world network, characterized by special structural properties of high connectivity and clustering, is one of the highlights in recent advances in network science and has the potential to model a variety of social contact networks. In an attempt to better understand how these structural properties of small‐world networks affect epidemic propagation and intervention, this article uses an agent‐based approach to investigate the interplay between an epidemic process and its underlying network structure. Small‐world networks are derived from a network “rewiring” process, which readjusts edges in a completely regular two‐dimensional network by different rewiring probabilities (0–1) to produce a spectrum of modified networks on which an agent‐based simulation of epidemic propagation can be conducted. A comparison of simulated epidemics discloses the effect of small‐world networks on epidemic propagation as well as the effectiveness of different intervention strategies, including mass vaccination, acquaintance vaccination, targeted vaccination, and contact tracing. Epidemics taking place on small‐world networks tend to reach large‐scale epidemic peaks within a short time period. Among the four intervention strategies tested, only one strategy—the targeted vaccination—proves to be effective for containing epidemics, a finding supported by a simulation of the severe acute respiratory syndrome epidemic in a large‐scale realistic social contact network in Portland, OR.