bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forelimb proportions and kinematics: how are small primates different from other small mammals?
Authors: Schmidt Manuela
Published: November 2008

The crouched limb posture of small mammals enables them to react to unexpected irregularities in the support. Small arboreal primates would benefit from these kinematics in their arboreal habitat but it has been demonstrated that primates display certain differences in forelimb kinematics to other mammals. The objective of this paper is to find out whether these changes in forelimb kinematics are related to changes in body size and limb proportions. As primates descended from small ancestors, a comparison between living small primates and other small mammals makes it possible to determine the polarity of character transformations for kinematic and morphometric features proposed to be unique to primates. Walking kinematics of mouse lemurs, brown lemurs, cotton-top tamarins and squirrel monkeys was investigated using cineradiography. Morphometry was conducted on a sample of 110 mammals comprising of primates, marsupials, rodents and carnivores. It has been shown that forelimb kinematics change with increasing body size in such a way that limb protraction increases but retraction decreases. Total forelimb excursion, therefore, is almost independent of body size. Kinematic changes are linked to changes in forelimb proportions towards greater asymmetry between scapula and radius. Due to the spatial restriction inherent in the diagonal footfall sequence of primates, forelimb excursion is influenced by the excursion of the elongated hind limb. Hindlimb geometry, however, is highly conserved, as has been previously shown. The initial changes in forelimb kinematics might, therefore, be explained as solutions to a constraint rather than as adaptations to the particular demands of arboreal locomotion.
Ontogenetic changes in photoreceptor opsin gene expression in coho salmon(Oncorhynchus kisutch, Walbaum)
Authors: Temple S. E. , Veldhoen K. M. , Phelan J. T. , Veldhoen N. J. , Hawryshyn C. W.
Published: November 2008

Pacific salmonids start life in fresh water then migrate to the sea, after a metamorphic event called smoltification, later returning to their natal freshwater streams to spawn and die. To accommodate changes in visual environments throughout life history, salmon may adjust their spectral sensitivity. We investigated this possibility by examining ontogenetic and thyroid hormone (TH)-induced changes in visual pigments in coho salmon(Oncorhynchus kisutch, Walbaum). Using microspectrophotometry, we measured the spectral absorbance (quantified by λmax) of rods, and middle and long wavelength-sensitive (MWS and LWS) cones in three age classes of coho, representing both freshwater and marine phases. Theλ max of MWS and LWS cones differed among freshwater (alevin and parr) and ocean (smolt) phases. The λmax of rods, on the other hand, did not vary, which is evidence that vitamin A1/A2 visual pigment chromophore ratios were similar among freshwater and ocean phases when sampled at the same time of year. Exogenous TH treatment long wavelength shifted the λmax of rods, consistent with an increase in A2. However, shifts in cones were greater than predicted for a change in chromophore ratio. Real-time quantitative RT-PCR demonstrated that at least two RH2 opsin subtypes were expressed in MWS cones, and these were differentially expressed among alevin,parr and TH-treated alevin groups. Combined with changes in A1/A2 ratio, differential expression of opsin subtypes allows coho to alter the spectral absorbance of their MWS and LWS cones by as much as 60 and 90 nm, respectively. To our knowledge, this is the largest spectral shift reported in a vertebrate photoreceptor.
Stabilization and mobility of the head, neck and trunk in horses during overground locomotion: comparisons with humans and other primates
Authors: Dunbar Donald C. , Macpherson Jane M. , Simmons Roger W. , Zarcades Athina
Published: November 2008

Segmental kinematics were investigated in horses during overground locomotion and compared with published reports on humans and other primates to determine the impact of a large neck on rotational mobility (>20 deg.) and stability (≤20 deg.) of the head and trunk. Three adult horses (Equus caballus) performing walks, trots and canters were videotaped in lateral view. Data analysis included locomotor velocity, segmental positions, pitch and linear displacements and velocities, and head displacement frequencies. Equine, human and monkey skulls and cervical spines were measured to estimate eye and vestibular arc length during head pitch displacements. Horses stabilized all three segments in all planes during all three gaits, unlike monkeys and humans who make large head pitch and yaw rotations during walks,and monkeys that make large trunk pitch rotations during gallops. Equine head angular displacements and velocities, with some exceptions during walks, were smaller than in humans and other primates. Nevertheless, owing to greater off-axis distances, orbital and vestibular arc lengths remained larger in horses, with the exception of head–neck axial pitch during trots, in which equine arc lengths were smaller than in running humans. Unlike monkeys and humans, equine head peak-frequency ranges fell within the estimated range in which inertia has a compensatory stabilizing effect. This inertial effect was typically over-ridden, however, by muscular or ligamentous intervention. Thus, equine head pitch was not consistently compensatory, as reported in humans. The equine neck isolated the head from the trunk enabling both segments to provide a spatial reference frame.
The functional significance of the lower temporal bar inSphenodon punctatus
Authors: Schaerlaeken Vicky , Herrel Anthony , Aerts Peter , Ross Callum F.
Published: November 2008

One of the major conundrums in the evolution of vertebrate cranial design is the early loss and frequent redevelopment of the lower temporal bar in diapsids. Whereas it has been proposed that the reduction of the lower temporal bar allows for an increase in jaw adductor mass and bite force, this has never been tested experimentally. As the sole recent representative of the Rhynchocephalia, Sphenodon punctatus is different from other extant lepidosaurians in having a fully diapsid skull and in using translation to shear food rather than using the typical puncture-crushing of other lizards. In the present study, we show that S. punctatus has lower bite forces compared with extant lepidosaurians. Moreover, dissection of the jaw muscles of an adult S. punctatus shows that the mass of the external jaw adductor muscle is significantly smaller than that of lizards, probably accounting for the lower measured bite forces. An analysis of the transport cycles suggests a less efficient prey transport in S. punctatuscompared with an agamid lizard of similar size in terms of handling time and number of cycles needed to crush similar prey. Modelling of biting in S. punctatus suggests a different role of the jaw adductor muscles during biting and a clear functional role for the lower temporal bar. Future finite element models may provide better insights into the function of the lower temporal bar in S. punctatus.
Timing of the daily temperature cycle affects the critical arousal temperature and energy expenditure of lesser long-eared bats
Authors: Turbill Christopher , Körtner Gerhard , Geiser Fritz
Published: November 2008

Daily patterns of body temperature (Tb) and energy expenditure in heterothermic endotherms are affected by changes in ambient temperature (Ta) and selection of suitable microclimates,yet most laboratory studies employ constant Ta to measure metabolic rates. In particular, exposure to a daily temperature cycle, even within rest shelters, may be important in timing of torpor and arousal and determining resting energy costs in wild animals. We tested how captive bats(Nyctophilus geoffroyi; 7 g) exposed to a diurnal Ta fluctuation (between 13°C and 27°C), similar to natural conditions in their summer tree roosts, adjusted the timing of daily arousals. To distinguish the effects of Ta and passive rewarming from time of the day, we shifted the heating phase to commence at 06:00 h, 09:00 h or 12:00 h on each day. Bats entered torpor overnight and aroused the next day at a time corresponding to rising Taand passive rewarming. The critical Ta (and torpid Tb) for arousal was not fixed, however, but was lower when heating occurred later in the rest phase, providing the first evidence that the critical arousal Ta is affected by time of the day. Bats re-entered torpor in response to cooling late in the afternoon, yet always aroused at lights off. A period of normothermic thermoregulation was therefore closely synchronised with maximum daily Ta,indicating a trade-off between the benefits and energetic costs of normothermia during resting. Our experiment clearly shows that a daily Ta cycle affects the thermoregulatory behaviour and energetics of these small bats. More generally, these results demonstrate the critical influence of behavioural decisions on the daily energy expenditure of small heterothermic mammals.
Switching to fast growth: the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system in skeletal muscle of Atlantic salmon
Authors: Bower Neil I. , Li Xuejun , Taylor Richard , Johnston Ian A.
Published: November 2008

In this study we describe the complete coding sequence for insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I), insulin-like growth factor II (IGF-II), insulin-like growth factor binding protein (IGFBP) 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6 and IGFBP-related protein 1 (IGFBP-rP1) of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.). We also report the characterisation of two gene paralogues of IGFBP-2 and IGFBP-5. Following 22 days restricted feeding (0 d) to achieve zero growth, fish were fed to satiation and sampled at 3, 5, 7, 14, 30 and 60 days. Expression profiles for genes involved in the IGF signalling pathway in fast myotomal muscle were determined using real-time quantitative RT-PCR. The transition from zero to fast growth is characterised by constitutive upregulation of IGF-I and IGFBP-4, a transient increase in IGFBP-5.2, and downregulation of IGFBP-2.1, IGF-II, IGF2R (IGF-II receptor) and IGFR1a (IGF-I receptor a). Expression of IGFBP-2.2, IGFBP-5.1, IGFBP-6, IGFBP-rP1 and IGFR1b showed little or no response to feeding. Expression of the myogenic marker genes myogenin, MHC and MLC2 were higher with feed restriction, and decreased as an early response to feeding, before increasing to a peak at 14 days,corresponding with a peak in IGF-I expression. IGFBP-4, which contains a putative connective tissue localisation signal, was the only IGFBP constitutively upregulated following feeding, and was positively correlated with IGF-I expression. Together, these data show that switching to fast growth in Atlantic salmon skeletal muscle involves the local upregulation of IGF-I,IGFBP-5.2 and IGFBP-4, with downregulation of IGFBP-2.1.
Physiological and morphological colour change in Antarctic krill, Euphausia superba: a field study in the Lazarev Sea
Authors: Auerswald Lutz , Freier Ulrich , Lopata Andreas , Meyer Bettina
Published: November 2008

Antarctic krill, Euphausia superba, is very susceptible to harmful solar radiation because of its unique genetic setup. Exposure occurs in spring to autumn during vertical diel migration and during occasional daytime surface-swarming. We have investigated colour change in Antarctic krill, Euphausia superba, during summer and winter in the Lazarev Sea in response to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and photosynthetically active radiation (PAR). Short-term physiological colour change and long-term(seasonal) morphological colour change are present. Both are facilitated by a single type of monochromatic red chromatophore, i.e. erythrophores, of 20–450 μm diameter. Superficial erythrophores cover large dorsal areas, especially above vital organs (brain, sinus glands), additional`profound' erythrophores cover internal organs (heart, gut, nerve cords). Short-term change in light regime causes rapid physiological colour change along dense bundles of microtubules: pigment disperses into chromorhizae upon exposure to PAR and UVA and to a lesser extent to UVB. Darkness leads to aggregation of pigment in the centre and hence blanching. There is no circadian rhythm in the dispersal state of erythrophores present in winter. Physiological colour change in adult krill is two to three times more rapid in summer than in winter. Furthermore, seasonal changes in light regime also result in a profound morphological colour change: in summer animals, abdominal astaxanthin concentration is 450% and erythrophore count is 250–480%higher than in winter krill. We conclude from our results, that pigmentation of E. superba serves in the protection from harmful solar radiation and is adapted to the varying diel and seasonal light conditions.
Lack of Observed Association between High Plasma Osteoprotegerin Concentrations and Ischemic Stroke Risk in a Healthy Population
Authors: Nybo Mads , Johnsen Søren P , Dethlefsen Claus , Overvad Kim , Tjønneland Anne , Jørgensen Jens Otto L , Rasmussen Lars Melholt
Published: November 2008

Background: Several studies suggest that osteoprotegerin (OPG) concentrations may be associated with the risk of ischemic stroke, but no large prospective studies have been conducted. We conducted a nested case-control study within a large cohort to elucidate a possible relation.

Methods: The study was done within a follow-up study including 57 053 men and women. Baseline data included OPG concentrations, lifestyle factors, and medical history. Median length of follow-up was 3.1 years. We assessed the relationship between OPG and stroke risk using conditional logistic regression to adjust for known risk factors (smoking, blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, body mass index, alcohol use, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and education).

Results: We identified 254 cases with verified incident acute ischemic stroke and 254 age- and sex-matched controls. Median plasma OPG concentration among cases was 1.84 μg/L (25th–75th percentile 1.45–2.30 μg/L) compared with 1.87 μg/L (1.49–2.27 μg/L) in the control group. The adjusted odds ratio was 0.87 (95% CI 0.46–1.63) comparing participants in the highest quartile of OPG concentrations with those in the lowest quartile.

Conclusions: These findings provide no support for the hypothesis that plasma OPG concentrations are associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke. This result could indicate a different pathogenic process in stroke development from that in ischemic heart disease, where OPG is a strong predictor.
Covers of Klein surfaces
Authors: Alonso M. Emilia , Haran Dan
Published: November 2008

We consider ramified (Galois) covers of the upper half plane in the category of Klein surfaces. We study the connection between the group theoretical ramification data of the cover and its geometrical properties, such as the number of the connected components of the boundary and orientability of the surface.
A classification of polarized manifolds by the sectional Betti number and the sectional Hodge number
Authors: Fukuma Yoshiaki
Published: November 2008

Let (X, L) be a polarized manifold of dimension n defined over the field of complex numbers. Assume that L is spanned. Then, in this paper, we will classify (X, L) by the second sectional Betti number b
2(X, L) and the second sectional Hodge number (X, L) of type (1, 1), which were defined by the author in a previous paper. Moreover, for the case where L is very ample, we will give a classification of (X, L) with b
4(X, L) = h
4(X, ℂ).
On reduced polytopes and antipodality
Authors: Averkov Gennadiy , Martini Horst
Published: November 2008

LetBbe ano-symmetric convex body in ℝd, andMdbe the normed space with unit ballB. TheMd-thickness ΔB(K) of a convex bodyK⊆ ℝdis the smallest possibleMd-distance between two distinct parallel supporting hyperplanes ofK. Furthermore,Kis said to beMd-reduced if ΔB(K′) < ΔB(K) for every convex bodyK′ withK′ ⊆KandK′ ≠K. In our main theorems we describeMd-reduced polytopes as polytopes whose face lattices possess certain antipodality properties. As one of the consequences, we obtain that if the boundary ofBis regular, then ad-polytope withmfacets andnvertices is notMd-reduced providedm=d+ 2 orn=d+ 2 orn>m. The latter statement yields a new partial answer to Lassak's question on the existence of Euclidean reducedd-polytopes ford≥ 3.
Lastreduzierende Pitchregelung für Windenergieanlagen Load Reducing Pitch Control for Wind Turbines
Authors: Geyler Martin , Caselitz Peter
Published: November 2008

Der vorliegende Beitrag behandelt das Thema lastreduzierende Pitchregelung für Windenergieanlagen am Beispiel der aktiven Turmschwingungsdämpfung und der Nick- und Giermomentreduktion. Durch die Berücksichtigung zusätzlicher lastreduzierender Regelungsziele geht das klassische Drehzahlregelungsproblem in ein Mehrgrößenproblem über. Ein vereinfachtes Entwurfsmodell wird abgeleitet. Darauf basierend wird ein Reglerentwurf nach der Methode der
H
∞
-Norm-Minimierung beschrieben. Es wird gezeigt, dass die Regler für kollektiven und zyklischen Pitch unabhängig voneinander betrachtet werden dürfen. Die entworfenen Regler werden anhand von Simulationen mit einem detaillierten nichtlinearen Modell der Windenergieanlage verifiziert.
Kooperative Verhaltensentscheidung für Gruppen kognitiver Automobile auf Grundlage des gemeinsamen Lagebilds Cooperative Behavior of Groups of Cognitive Automobiles based on a Common Relevant Picture
Authors: Frese Christian , Batz Thomas , Beyerer Jürgen
Published: November 2008

Dieser Beitrag beschreibt die Bildung kooperativer Gruppen von Fahrzeugen im Straßenverkehr und die gemeinsame Verhaltensentscheidung dieser Gruppe, um komplexere Gefahrensituationen entschärfen oder beherrschen zu können. Insbesondere ist dabei an plötzlich auftretende Situationen gedacht, in denen ein Fahrer aufgrund der sehr kurzen noch verbleibenden Reaktionszeit nicht angemessen reagieren kann oder bei denen nur ein komplexes, von mehreren Fahrzeugen verlässlich gemeinsam durchgeführtes Fahrmanöver von Erfolg ist.
LMI-Entwurf schneller Regler mit impliziten Ljapunov-Funktionen LMI Design of Fast Control Employing Implicit Lyapunov Functions
Authors: Yankulova Dilyana , Adamy Jürgen
Published: November 2008

Weiche strukturvariable Regler mit impliziten Ljapunov-Funktionen sind nichtlineare Zustandsrückführungen für lineare Systeme mit Stellgrößenbeschränkung. Die Parameter des Reglers werden kontinuierlich abhängig vom Systemzustand verändert, sodass der Stellgrößenbereich möglichst gut ausgenutzt wird, ohne die Beschränkung zu verletzen. Dadurch kann ein fast zeitoptimales Verhalten bei einem verhältnismäßig geringen Entwurfsaufwand erreicht werden. Dieser Entwurf erfolgt durch die numerische Lösung eines Optimierungsproblems mittels eines Suchverfahrens, z.B. einer Evolutionsstrategie. Der Entwurfsaufwand wird in diesem Artikel durch Formulierung dieses Problems als LMI (lineare Matrixungleichung) basiertes Optimierungsproblem deutlich verringert.
Bürgerliche Kontinuitäten? Ein Vergleich deutsch-deutscher Selbstbilder und Realitäten seit 1945Continuities of 'Buergertum′ and 'Buergerlichkeit′. A Comparison of German Self-Images and Realities since 1945
Authors: Rauh Cornelia
Published: November 2008

Bis Anfang der 1990er Jahre hatte unter Historikern Konsens darüber bestanden, daß mit dem langen 19. Jahrhundert auch die Geschichte des deutschen Bürgertums zu ihrem Ende gekommen sei. Als einigermaßen einheitliche politische Kraft, als Sozialformation ebenso wie als kulturprägende Größe schien das deutsche Bürgertum mit dem Ersten Weltkrieg in die Bedeutungslosigkeit entschwunden. Neuerdings jedoch wird vermehrt von einer neuen Bürgerlichkeit, teilweise sogar von einem Neuen Bürgertum gesprochen, das sich seit 1945 wieder formiert habe. Der vorliegende Aufsatz knüpft an diese Überlegungen an und fragt nach Kontinuitäten von Bürgerlichkeit im geteilten Deutschland. Dabei konzentriert sich die Darstellung auf zwei eng miteinander verbundene Problemkomplexe, die zunächst jeweils für die westdeutsche und anschließend für die ostdeutsche Gesellschaft untersucht werden. Zuerst wird nach der Kontinuität bürgerlicher Leitbilder in beiden deutschen Teilgesellschaften gefragt, sodann nach Kontinuitäten oder Relikten des Bürgertums als privilegierter und sich distinguierender Sozialformation. Das führt zu der Beobachtung, daß bürgerliche Leitbilder und bürgerlich-ständische Verhaltensweisen den Nationalsozialismus ebenso wie die Zeit der staatlichen Teilung Deutschlands überdauert haben. Mit einer Sozialformation, die nach ihrer gesamtgesellschaftlichen und kulturellen Stellung und Bedeutung dem Bürgertum des 19. Jahrhunderts auch nur von ferne ähnelt, haben wir es trotz dieser Leitwerte und Distinktionsbestrebungen dennoch wohl weder in West noch Ost zu tun. Aber hier wie da weisen die gesellschaftlichen Eliten Kulturmuster auf, die deutliche Übereinstimmungen mit den im 19. Jahrhundert anzutreffenden Formen von Bürgerlichkeit zeigen. Insbesondere hinsichtlich familiär tradierter Bildungseinstellungen und Karriereerwartungen sollten sich diese bürgerlichen Überreste als folgenreich erweisen. Die Familie erwies sich nämlich nicht nur als diejenige Institution, welche in Ostdeutschland die inneren Grenzen der Diktatur absteckte (Bessel/Jessen), die Familien waren vielmehr zugleich diejenige Instanz, die der sozialen Nivellierung beider deutschen Gesellschaften Grenzen setzte.
Westernisierung, Internationalisierung, Bürgerlichkeit? Zu einigen jüngeren Arbeiten der Ideengeschichte der alten BundesrepublikWesternization, Internationalization, "Buergerlichkeit"? About some Recent Studies on the History of Ideas in the Federal Republic of Germany
Authors: Kießling Friedrich
Published: November 2008

Zugleich Besprechung von:

D. Geppert/U. Wengst (Hrsg.), Neutralität – Chance oder Chimäre? Konzepte des Dritten Weges für Deutschland und die Welt 1945–1990

A. Bauerkämper/K. H. Jarausch/M. M. Payk (Hrsg.), Demokratiewunder. Transatlantische Mittler und die kulturelle Öffnung Westdeutschlands 1945–1970

F.-L. Kroll (Hrsg.), Die kupierte Alternative. Konservatismus in Deutschland nach 1945

E. Rathgeb, Die engagierte Nation. Deutsche Debatten 1945–2005

J. Hacke, Philosophie der Bürgerlichkeit. Die liberalkonservative Begründung der Bundesrepublik

S. Kießling, Die antiautoritäre Revolte der 68er. Postindustrielle Konsumgesellschaft und säkulare Religionsgeschichte der Moderne
Laser Induced Potential Energy Surface Crossing in Ion-Molecule Reactions: Application to Li++CH4
Authors: El-Din Kamal M. Tag , Sedik El-Wallid S. , Talaat Hassan
Published: November 2008

Laser ion-molecule reaction interaction through long range dipole moments leads to potential energy surface crossings. We will show here by using gauge representation (electric field gauge) for wave length λ = 20.6 μm, Intensity I = 5×1012 W/cm2, I = 1×1013 W/cm2, I = 3×1013 W/cm2, that we can create laser induced potential energy surface crossing in the virtual transition state region (4.a.u.) where the dipole moment changes sign. We illustrate such effects for the Li H + CH3
+ ↔ Li+ + CH4 reaction which takes the form of inverted Morse (without a barrier) using ab-initio methods for calculating the reaction path and the permanent dipole moment of this ion-molecule reaction.
The Effect of EDTA on the Deposition of ZnS Thin Film
Authors: Nagalingam Saravanan , Bee Teh Geok , Delon Alexis
Published: November 2008

Cyclic voltammetry studies in the presence of EDTA in aqueous solution were found to offer some noteworthy improvements in the electrodeposition synthesis of ZnS compound. EDTA has shown its capacity for improving the longevity of the deposition bath as well as adhesion of the deposited material on the substrate. The deposition condition of ZnS compound in the presence of EDTA was found to be favorable in low acidic medium. The process could be carried out at room temperature without the need to increase solution temperature.
Growth response to an individualized versus fixed dose GH treatment in short children born small for gestational age: the OPTIMA study
Authors: Jung Heike , Land Christof , Nicolay Claudia , De Schepper Jean , Blum Werner F , Schönau Eckhard
Published: November 2008

Objective

Initial GH-induced catch up growth is highly variable in short children born small for gestational age (SGA) and mainly influenced by age at start of therapy and GH dose. This study compared the first year growth-promoting effect of an individually adjusted GH dose (IAD) versus a fixed high GH dose (FHD) in pre-pubertal children born SGA with severe short stature.

Design

This was a randomized, open-label, multi-center study.

Methods

The FHD group received 0.067 mg/kg per day GH throughout the 12-month study. The IAD group initially received 0.035 mg/kg per day GH; at 3 months the Cologne growth-prediction model for first year change in height SDS was applied; if predicted change was <0.75, GH was increased to 0.067 mg/kg per day for the remaining 9 months, otherwise the initial dose was continued.

Results

In the IAD group, 38 out of the 80 patients required the higher GH dose from month 3. From an ANCOVA for non-inferiority, mean difference in change in height SDS between IAD and FHD groups was −0.24 (95% confidence interval (CI) −0.35: −0.12), the CI for height SDS being above the pre-defined non-inferiority margin of −0.5. GH dose reductions due to IGF-I SDS >0.5 and IGFBP-3 SDS <−0.5 were performed in 4/99 FHD patients, but none of the IAD group patients. Safety data were similar between groups.

Conclusion

With a mean treatment group difference of 1 cm in 12-month growth response, although statistically significant, the IAD group was considered non-inferior compared with the FHD group. Early growth prediction can be used to tailor the dose to the individual patient's needs, resulting in lower overall GH dose.
Glycodelin in reproductive endocrinology and hormone-related cancer
Authors: Seppälä M , Koistinen H , Koistinen R , Hautala L , Chiu P C , Yeung W S
Published: November 2008

Glycodelin is an endocrine-regulated glycoprotein that has significant effects on immune cells, apoptosis, reproduction, cell adhesion, differentiation and cancer. In reproduction, glycodelin contributes to capacitation and immunoprotection of spermatozoa, and it modulates sperm–oocyte binding, acrosome reaction and implantation. In endocrine-related cancer, the differentiation inducing effects of glycodelin are accompanied by growth restriction of malignant cells, decreased expression of oncogenes, increased expression of tumour suppressor genes and morphological reversion of the malignant phenotype. This review features these properties and clinical connections, highlighting the role of glycosylation in biological actions.
Estrogen-dependent downregulation of hairy and enhancer of split homolog-1 gene expression in breast cancer cells is mediated via a 3′ distal element
Authors: Müller Patrick , Merrell Kenneth W , Crofts Justin D , Rönnlund Caroline , Lin Chin-Yo , Gustafsson Jan-Åke , Ström Anders
Published: November 2008

Regulation of hairy and enhancer of split homologue-1 (HES-1) by estradiol and all-trans retinoic acid affects proliferation of human breast cancer cells. Here, we identify and characterize cis-regulatory elements involved in HES-1 regulation. In the distal 5′ promoter of the HES-1 gene, we found a retinoic acid response element and in the distal 3′ region, an estrogen receptor α(ER)α binding site. The ERα binding site, composed of an estrogen response element (ERE) and an ERE half-site, is important for both ERα binding and transcriptional regulation. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays revealed that ERα is recruited to the ERE and associates with the HES-1 promoter. We also show recruitment of nuclear receptor co-regulators to the ERE in response to estradiol, followed by a decrease in histone acetylation and RNA polymerase II docking in the HES-1 promoter region. Our findings are consistent with a novel type of repressive estrogen response element in the distal 3′ region of the HES-1 gene.
Implication of nitric oxide in the increased islet-cells vulnerability of adult progeny from protein-restricted mothers and its prevention by taurine
Authors: Goosse K , Bouckenooghe T , Balteau M , Reusens B , Remacle C
Published: November 2008

An increased vulnerability of adult β-cells seems to be programmed in early life as adult islets from the progeny of dams fed a low-protein diet exhibited an increased apoptotic rate after cytokine stimulation. This was prevented by maternal taurine supplementation. Here, we investigated the mechanisms implicated in such an increased vulnerability and how taurine exerts its protective role. Throughout gestation and lactation, Wistar rats were fed a 20% (control (C group)) or an isocaloric 8% protein diet (recovery (R group)) supplemented or not with taurine (control+taurine and recovery+taurine groups respectively). Offspring received a 20% protein diet after weaning. Islets from 3-month-old females were isolated and cultured for 48 h before being incubated with or without cytokines for 24 h. In unstimulated islets, apoptotic rate and NO. secretion were higher in R than in C. Both GADD153 mRNA and protein were increased, whereas mRNA of mitochondrial gene ATPase6 was downregulated in R group compared with C. In the RT group, taurine prevented apoptosis and restored a normal NO. production in GADD153 as well as ATPase6 mRNA expression. After cytokines-induction, apoptosis and NO. secretion were still increased in R compared with C but both parameters were normalized in the RT group. In conclusion, a maternal low-protein diet programmes a different pattern of gene expression in islet-cells of adult progeny. Higher NO. production by these islets could be an important factor in the subsequent cell death. The prevention of these events by maternal taurine supplementation emphasizes the importance of taurine during endocrine pancreas development.
Iron oxide coating of geosynthetic fibers for water treatment applications
Authors: Mitchell-Blackwood J. , Gurian P. L. , Kumar A. , Sarich M.
Published: November 2008

Polypropylene fibers present favorable physical, hydraulic and specific surface area properties for use as a raw material or substrate in developing a novel iron-oxide-coated medium for the adsorption of heavy metals from drinking water. However, polypropylene fibers have not been explored for their ability to retain iron oxide coating under realistic flow rates for water treatment. This study evaluated the ability of polypropylene to retain its coating under flow rates used in water treatment, through column studies. A full factorial experimental design was used to evaluate the effects of flow rate, packing scheme (in-plane or cross-plane) and location within the column on iron retention. The polypropylene mat achieved an iron density of 86 mg Fe/g medium of material and retained 73% of this coating after being subjected to hydraulic flows in the cross-plane direction several times those used in water treatment. This is substantially higher than the amount of iron retained on sand as reported by previous researchers. Further investigation should evaluate pre-treatment methods which may facilitate strong chemical bonds between the iron and fiber to create a more consistent coating.
Autotrophic nitrogen removal in sequencing batch biofilm reactors at different oxygen supply modes
Authors: Wantawin C. , Juateea J. , Noophan P. L. , Munakata-Marr J.
Published: November 2008

Conventional nitrification-denitrification treatment is a common way to treat nitrogen in wastewater, but this process is costly for low COD/N wastewaters due to the addition of air and external carbon-source. However, ammonia may alternatively be converted to dinitrogen gas by autotrophic bacteria utilizing aerobically autotrophically produced nitrite as an electron acceptor under anoxic conditions. Lab-scale sequencing batch biofilm reactors (SBBRs) inoculated with normal nitrifying sludge were employed to study the potential of an oxygen-limited autotrophic nitrification-denitrification process initiated with typical nitrifying sludge for treating a synthetic ammonia wastewater devoid of organic carbon in one step. The ring-laced fibrous carrier (length 0.32 m, surface area 3.4 m2/m) was fixed vertically in a 3 L reactor. Two different air supply modes were applied:continuous aeration to control dissolved oxygen at 1.5 mg/L and intermittent aeration. High nitrogen removals of more than 50% were obtained in both SBBRs. At an ammonia loading of 0.882 gm N/m2-day [hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 24 hr], the SBBR continuously aerated to 1.5 mg DO/L had slightly higher nitrogen removal (64%) than the intermittently alternated SBBR (55%). The main form of residual nitrogen in the effluent was ammonia, at concentrations of 25 mg/L and 37 mg N/L in continuous and intermittent aeration SBBRs, respectively. Ammonia was completely consumed when ammonia loading was reduced to 0.441 gm N/m2-day [HRT extended to 48 hr]. The competitive use of nitrite by aerobic nitrite oxidizing bacteria (ANOB) with anaerobic ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (anammox bacteria) during the expanded aeration period under low remaining ammonia concentration resulted in higher nitrate production and lower nitrogen loss in the continuous aeration SBBR than in the intermittent aeration SBBR. The nitrogen removal efficiencies in SBBRs with continuous and alternating aerated were 80% and 86% respectively. Specific microorganisms in the biofilm were characterized using fluorescence in situ hybridization. Aerobic ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AAOB) occurred side by side with putative anammox bacteria (cells hybridizing with probe AMX820) throughout the biofilm, though ANOB were rarely detected.
Effects of high salinity wastewater on methanogenic sludge bed systems
Authors: Ismail S. B. , Gonzalez P. , Jeison D. , van Lier J. B.
Published: November 2008

The attainable loading potentials of anaerobic sludge bed systems are strongly dependent on the growth of granular biomass with a particular wastewater. Experiments were conducted to determine the effects of high salinity wastewater on the biological and physical properties of methanogenic sludge. Sodium concentration of 5 g/L and 15 g/L were added to the influent of upflow anaerobic sludge bed (UASB) systems. After 100 days of operation, the methanogenic activity, extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), and granular strength were analyzed. The results show a high removal of organic matter but with accumulating propionate concentrations in the effluents. Meanwhile, wash-out of active methanogenic biomass in the effluent of the reactors was observed, likely as a results of the high Na+ concentrations. The rinsed biomass was characterized by a considerable specific methanogenic activity (SMA) on acetate, propionate and hydrogen as the substrates. On the other hand, results show that the SMA evolution was not affected by high salt concentrations. Also the amount and composition of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) were similar in all sludges. However, results clearly show a sharp drop in the granule strength as a results of high Na+ concentration.
Adapting a denitrifying biocathode for perchlorate reduction
Authors: Shea Caitlyn , Clauwaert Peter , Verstraete Willy , Nerenberg Robert
Published: November 2008

Perchlorate is widely used as a propellant in the aerospace and defense industries, and is of environmental concern due to its high mobility and inhibiting effect on thyroid function. An ideal treatment approach is bioreduction to chloride via dissimilatory perchlorate-reducing bacteria (PCRB). PCRB are ubiquitous in the environment, and are mainly facultative anaerobes and denitrifiers. Previous research suggests that PCRB may grow using a cathode as an electron donor, although this research was performed in a half cell with exogenous electron shuttles. We investigated a functioning MFC with a denitrifying biocathode for perchlorate reduction, as a means to confirm the existence of biocathode-utilizing PCRB and the possibility of perchlorate remediation without added shuttles. The biocathode was initially run with 20 mgN/L nitrate. The perchlorate concentration was increased stepwise from 0.1 mg/L to 20 mg/L, while the nitrate concentration was decreased from 20 mgN/L to 5 mgN/L. The maximum perchlorate removal was 12 mg/L-d, contributing 64% to the 0.28 mA produced by the cell. Given the lack of soluble electron donor in the medium, the extent of perchlorate reduction, and the improvement of perchlorate reduction over time, these tests strongly suggest PCRB are utilizing the cathode as an electron donor without exogenous electron shuttles.
Heavy metal removal from wastewater using zero-valent iron nanoparticles
Authors: Chen S. Y. , Chen W. H. , Shih C. J.
Published: November 2008

Because of having a high reduction potential, the zero-valent iron (ZVI) is often applied for the remediation of wastewater or groundwater with heavy metals. The purpose of this study was aimed to investigate the reaction behavior of heavy metals with ZVI nanoparticles in the wastewater. The affecting factors, such as initial pH, dosage of nanoscale ZVI and initial concentration of heavy metal, on the removal efficiency of heavy metals by ZVI in the wastewater were examined by the batch experiments in this study. It was found that the removal of heavy metals was affected by initial pH. The rate and efficiency of metal removal increased with decreasing initial pH. Greater than 90% of the heavy metals were removed when the initial pH was controlled at 2. In addition, the rate and efficiency of metal removal increased as the dosage of nanoscale ZVI increased. The removal efficiency of heavy metal was higher than 80% when 2.0 g/L of ZVI was added in the wastewater. On the other hand, the slow rate and low efficiency of metal removal from the wastewater treated by nanoscale ZVI was found in the wastewater with high concentration of heavy metal.
Ranking methods to set restoration and remediation priorities on a watershed scale
Authors: Stringfellow William T.
Published: November 2008

The establishment of a total maximum daily load (TMDL) is part of management process that results in the institution of watershed-based controls of otherwise unregulated sources of pollution. In California (USA), the implementation of a TMDL is driven forward in a process where watershed stakeholders are expected to cooperate on actions needed to improve ecosystem health. In the TMDL process, methods are needed for synthesizing complex scientific data into actionable management information. Where pollutant load analysis may be misleading or perceived as unfair, non-parametric statistical methods can be applied to flow and water quality data to guide the selection of drainages for remediation. The calculation of normalized rank means (NRMs) for flow and water quality can be used to set priorities for the implementation of TMDL management actions. Drainages can be classified into one of four categories (quadrants) based on the relationship between flow and water quality NRMs. Drainages can be included or excluded from management action based on their quadrant classification. Although there are many possible alternative approaches, this “quadrant analysis” is suggested as a scientifically rigorous methods for identifying priority watersheds in the often contentious, stakeholder driven TMDL implementation process.
Determination and evaluation of the phosphorus load of an artificial shallow lake
Authors: Schneider Y. , Grube S. , Weilandt M.
Published: November 2008

Enhanced eutrophication of lakes due to high nutrient loads from anthropogenic sources has become a worldwide problem. Dying ecosystems and limitation of uses are the consequences. In Bochum, Germany, Lake Ümminger is an integral part of a recreation area, but also receives high nutrient loads from the local sewer system, as could be shown with the help of water and nutrient balances. Mass algae growth, the dying of fish and production of digestion gas implied a demand to rehabilitate the lake. Primarily, the urgency and sanitation potential as well as the applicability of external and internal enhancement measures had to be evaluated. The trophic classification needed was based upon the German guideline for the classification of the water quality of natural lakes according to trophic criteria, mainly using Vollenweider's eutrophication model. This paper focuses on a description and analysis of the problems that arose during the application of this model to Lake Ümminger, stating that shallow, artificial lakes cannot be evaluated correctly with the existing methods. Although some suggestions for further improvement are given, the development of new evaluation criteria was not in the scope of the study presented.
Feasibility of submerged anaerobic membrane bioreactor (SAMBR) for treatment of low-strength wastewater
Authors: Huang Z. , Ong S. L. , Ng H. Y.
Published: November 2008

Two 6-L submerged anaerobic membrane bioreactors (SAMBR) with SRT of 30 and 60 d (denoted as R30 and R60, respectively) were set up and operated for five months, with a mixture of glucose as substrate. Feasibility of SAMBR was studied for treatment of low-strength wastewater. First two months were identified as acclimation stage. A COD removal efficiency was achieved stably at around 99% and biogas productions were maintained at 0.023 and 0.028 L CH4/gMLVSS∙d for R30 and R60, respectively. Even though R60 contained higher MLVSS concentration, no significant difference of treatment performances between both reactors was found due to the low organic loading rate and high purification function of membrane. In the investigation of membrane fouling, less irreversible fouling was observed for R30 compared to R60. High non-flocculent concentration of R60 would be responsible for membrane internal pore blocking and deteriorated effluent quality.
Use of polishing pond effluents to cultivate lettuce (Lactuca sativa) in a hydroponic system
Authors: Keller R. , Perin K. , Souza W. G. , Cruz L. S. , Zandonade E. , Cassini S. T. A. , Goncalves R. F.
Published: November 2008

The sanitary quality and productivity of hydroponic lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) plants cultivated under greenhouse conditions and treated with effluent from anaerobic reactor + polishing pond followed by physical-chemical treatment was evaluated. Two hydroponic cultivations were performed at summer and winter time at Vitoria-ES, Brazil. The treatments for both cultivations were: T1) conventional nutrient solution, T2) effluent from physical-chemical treatment, T3) effluent from polishing pond, and T4) effluent from polishing pond with 50% dilution. The plants were evaluated for microbial contamination, productivity and nutrient content. In all cases, no significant microbial contamination of lettuce was detected and the levels of macronutrients in the shoot system were similar to those in published reports. In the experiments from summer season, the treatments T1 and T2 resulted in higher production than the T3 and T4 treatments. Plants from T3 and T4 had a less developed root system as a result of reduced oxygenation from competition with the higher algae biomass content from the polishing pond effluent. In the winter season, the effect of the algal biomass was pronounced only in the T3 treatment (undiluted effluent from polishing pond). In conclusion, hydroponic cultivation of lettuce with pond effluent is suitable as a complement to water and nutrients for plants.
In the search of alternative cleaning solutions for MBR plants
Authors: Grélot A. , Machinal C. , Drouet K. , Tazi-Pain A. , Schrotter J. C. , Grasmick A. , Grinwis S.
Published: November 2008

The objective of the study was to identify alternative cleaning reagents to chlorine for membrane permeability regeneration in MBR applications. Indeed, chlorine is prohibited in some countries because of the formation of by-products such as THM. The study was focused on the comparison of ten cleaning reagents performances and in particular on their ability to remove irreversible fouling. The tests were carried on with the A3 Water Solutions' Maxflow membrane (flat sheet membrane). A specific experimental protocol was defined at lab scale to develop an irreversible fouling by filtering sludge supernatant. The more promising reagents at lab scale were then tested on the A3 membrane continuously immersed in a MBR pilot plant functioning under typical biological conditions (MLSS = 11 g/l; SRT = 28days). A full scale test was finally performed with hydrogen peroxide, one of the best reagents. Chlorine was taken as reference for all performed tests. The cleaning performances of the selected reagents were different at the different scales, probably due to the difficulty to obtain an irreversible membrane fouling at larger scales. This testing procedure will be reproduced with other membrane materials to have a better understanding of interactions between irreversible fouling, material nature and chemical reagents.
Traumatske arterio-venozne fistule
Authors: Radulovic Svetozar , Despot Branko , Acimovac P. , Pusac Branislava , Vasic N.
Published: November 2008

Od 200 bolesnika lijecenih na odeljenju za vaskularnu hirurgiju zbog povreda krvnih sudova njih 9 je imalo arterio-venske fistule. Sve fistule su poslijedica neprepoznate tangencialne lezije arterije i pratece vene. Nanesene su sitnim parcadima minsko-eksplozivnih sredstava. S obzirom da se radilo o periferno polozenim i manjim fistulama operisanim u periodu od godinu dana, dijagnostikovane su samo na osnovu prisustva lokalne simptomatologije. Arterije su anatomski rekonstruisane u 6 slucajeva direktnom suturom, a u 3 slucaja rekonstrukcija je ucinjena autovenskim pacem (patch). Sve vene su rekonstruisane direktnom suturom, izuzev prednje tibialne vene koja je ligirana. U postoperativnom toku nije bilo komplikacija.
The prevention of pancreatico-jejunostomy leakage
Authors: Stojanovic Miroslav , Jeremic Miroslav , Stojanovic Predrag , Stojiljkovic Miroslav , Gmijovic Dragojlo , Stanojkovic Zoran , Savic Vojin , Djordjevic Vidosava , Cvetkovic Z. , Rostov M. , Colovic Radoje
Published: November 2008

The aim of this study was to test the protective effects of fibrin sealing on the pancreatico-jejunostomy (PJA), the high-risk anastomosis following pancreas head resection. Experimental study was performed on the mongrel dogs, divided in two groups (20 animals each): Experimental group - with end to end "dunking" PJA, protected by temporary occlusion of the pancreatic duct with fibrin sealant /Tissucol/Immuno Ag/, while control group was without any protective procedure. The animals were followed 5 months in order to study: protective effects of such procedure on the PJA quantified with the percent of anastomotic leakage, effects of the exocrine secretion and effects the endocrine function Results: PJA leakage occurred in 13.33% in control group. No leakage was registered in experimental group. Biochemical, histological and electron microscopic study showed slight transitory elevation of amylase levels. Fibrin glue plug was dissolved and pancreatic juice output was reestablished 12th days postoperatively. Long term follow-up showed no damages of the endocrine and exocrine pancreas. Pancreatic duct occlusion with fibrin glue appeared to be an useful method in the prevention of pancreatico-jejunostomy leakage, without negative effects on the exocrine and endocrine pancreas.
Surgical treatment of the caruncular lesions
Authors: Bobic-Radovanovic A. , Latkovic Zoran
Published: November 2008

Each lesion which produces a prolong change of the volume of the caruncle necessitates surgical treatment, removal of the caruncle. Caruncular lesions are uncommon. During 15 years on the Institute for eye diseases in Belgrade authors have treated 121 caruncular lesions. Here they present their way of surgical treatment of the caruncle and point out some problems connect with this procedure .