bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Local and broadscale landscape structure differentially impact predation of two potato pests
Authors: Werling Ben P. , Gratton Claudio
Published: June 2010

Agricultural habitats are the recipients of ecosystem services provided by mobile arthropods like pollinators and natural enemies. These organisms can disperse between non‐crop habitats and crops and can benefit from resources in non‐crop areas. Thus, it may be important to conserve non‐crop habitats to maintain ecosystem services within crops. However, even single ecosystem services, such as pollination or predation of pests, may be provided by a complex of species. Different species may respond to landscape structure at differing spatial scales. This raises the question: What scales should conservation take place at to sustain an ecosystem service? Here, we examine variation in predation of two potato pests in response to landscape structure. Specifically, predation of Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata, and green peach aphid, Myzus persicae, were quantified in potato and field‐margin habitats set in landscapes that varied at different scales. At a local scale (meters), potato fields of different sizes were bordered by different areas of grassy field margin. At a broad scale (kilometers), these habitats were set in landscapes composed of varying percentages of non‐crop habitat. Predation of both pests was associated with landscape structure, but this relationship occurred at different scales for each pest and interacted differently with habitat type. Predation of L. decemlineata eggs was greater in field margins than in the potato crop and increased in both habitats when field margins were large relative to potatoes. In contrast, aphid predation in field margins increased with the area of non‐crop habitat within 1.5 km, but did not change in adjacent potato. These data emphasize that, even a single ecosystem service, such as predation of pests, can be influenced by landscape structure at multiple scales. More generally, it may be necessary to conserve heterogeneity both at local scales (individual farm fields) and broad scales (entire mosaic landscapes) to maintain ecosystem services. This may be especially true for ecosystem services that are the aggregate result of the actions of many species or ecological processes.
Whitebark pine vulnerability to climate‐driven mountain pine beetle disturbance in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem
Authors: Logan Jesse A. , Macfarlane William W. , Willcox Louisa
Published: June 2010

Widespread outbreaks of mountain pine beetles (MPB) are occurring throughout the range of this native insect. Episodic outbreaks are a common occurrence in the beetles' primary host, lodgepole pine. Current outbreaks, however, are occurring in habitats where outbreaks either did not previously occur or were limited in scale. Herein, we address widespread, ongoing outbreaks in high‐elevation, whitebark pine forests of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, where, due to an inhospitable climate, past outbreaks were infrequent and short lived. We address the basic question: are these outbreaks truly unprecedented and a threat to ecosystem continuity? In order to evaluate this question we (1) present evidence that the current outbreak is outside the historic range of variability; (2) examine system resiliency to MPB disturbance based on adaptation to disturbance and host defenses to MPB attack; and (3) investigate the potential domain of attraction to large‐scale MPB disturbance based on thermal developmental thresholds, spatial structure of forest types, and the confounding influence of an introduced pathogen. We conclude that the loss of dominant whitebark pine forests, and the ecological services they provide, is likely under continuing climate warming and that new research and strategies are needed to respond to the crisis facing whitebark pine.
Earthworms and litter management contributions to ecosystem services in a tropical agroforestry system
Authors: Fonte Steven J. , Six Johan
Published: June 2010

The development of sustainable agricultural systems depends in part upon improved management of non‐crop species to enhance the overall functioning and provision of services by agroecosystems. To address this need, our research examined the role of earthworms and litter management on nutrient dynamics, soil organic matter (SOM) stabilization, and crop growth in the Quesungual agroforestry system of western Honduras. Field mesocosms were established with two earthworm treatments (0 vs. 8Pontoscolex corethrurusindividuals per mesocosm) and four litter quality treatments: (1) low‐qualityZea mays, (2) high‐qualityDiphysa robinioides, (3) a mixture of low‐ and high‐quality litters, and (4) a control with no organic residues applied. Mesocosms included a singleZ. maysplant and additions of15N‐labeled inorganic nitrogen. At maize harvest, surface soils (0–15 cm) in the mesocosms were sampled to determine total and available P as well as the distribution of C, N, and15N among different aggregate‐associated SOM pools. Maize plants were divided into grain and non‐grain components and analyzed for total P, N, and15N. Earthworm additions improved soil structure as demonstrated by a 10% increase in mean weight diameter and higher C and N storage within large macro‐aggregates (>2000 μm). A corresponding 17% increase in C contained in micro‐aggregates within the macro‐aggregates indicates that earthworms enhance the stabilization of SOM in these soils; however, this effect only occurred when organic residues were applied. Earthworms also decreased available P and total soil P, indicating that earthworms may facilitate the loss of labile P added to this system. Earthworms decreased the recovery of fertilizer‐derived N in the soil but increased the uptake of15N by maize by 7%. Litter treatments yielded minimal effects on soil properties and plant growth. Our results indicate that the application of litter inputs and proper management of earthworm populations can have important implications for the provision of ecosystem services (e.g., C sequestration, soil fertility, and plant production) by tropical agroforestry systems.
Translocation to a fragmented landscape: survival, movement, and site fidelity of Northern Bobwhites
Authors: Terhune Theron M. , Sisson D. Clay , Palmer William E. , Faircloth Brant C. , Stribling H. Lee , Carroll John P.
Published: June 2010

Habitat fragmentation, degradation, and loss have taxed early‐successional species including the Northern Bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) and numerous grassland obligate birds. Translocation is often applied to counteract the consequences of habitat fragmentation through the creation, reestablishment, or augmentation of wild populations for the purposes of conservation, biodiversity maintenance. However, the implementation of these techniques is often conducted without valid experimental designs and therefore lacks robust, empirical data needed to evaluate and advance the knowledge and application of translocation. Despite the increasing amount of habitat management applied to patches among fragmented landscapes, a paucity of source populations often limits natural (re)colonization. As such, translocation may serve as a surrogate to natural dispersal, but its efficacy among fragmented landscapes is uncertain. Few studies exist that have assessed site fidelity, movement, and survival of individuals following translocation among fragmented landscapes. Thus, we experimentally evaluated the efficacy of translocation using known‐fate and multi‐strata models to evaluate hypotheses of temporal, biological, and group effects on survival and movement of translocated and resident bobwhites. We did not detect differences in survival or movement between translocated and resident bobwhites, suggesting that movement of individuals to a fragmented habitat does not negatively influence these demographic attributes. Based on these data, we suggest that two site‐specific criteria should be met prior to instituting translocation: habitat management should be conducted to ensure that quality habitat exists and the patch size should be a minimum of 600 ha of quality habitat (poorer sites may warrant even larger patches). Translocation is a viable conservation method for increasing abundance in patches when habitat quality is high but source populations are limited.
FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS AND TREATMENT OF SELF‐INJURY IN A CAPTIVE OLIVE BABOON
Authors: Dorey Nicole R , Rosales‐Ruiz Jesús , Smith Richard , Lovelace Bryan , Roane Henry
Published: June 2010

Self‐injurious behavior (SIB), such as self‐biting and head banging, has been reported to occur in approximately 10% of captive, individually housed nonhuman primates. Accounts of the etiology of SIB in primates range from ecological to physiological. However, to date, no research has examined the possible influence of social consequences delivered by handlers and keepers in the maintenance of SIB in this population. The current study investigated the effects of social contact as a potentially reinforcing consequence for the SIB displayed by an olive baboon (Papio hamadryas anubis). Results indicated that the behavior was maintained by attention from humans. As treatment, reinforcement was arranged for an appropriate alternative response, resulting in increases in the appropriate alternative behavior and decreases in SIB.
THE EFFECTS OF RESPONSE CARDS ON STUDENT AND TEACHER BEHAVIOR DURING VOCABULARY INSTRUCTION
Authors: Munro David W , Stephenson Jennifer , Roane Henry
Published: June 2010

The use of response cards during whole‐class English vocabulary instruction was evaluated. Five low‐participating students were observed during hand‐raising conditions and response‐card conditions to observe the effects of response cards on student responding and test scores and teacher questions and feedback. Responding and test scores were higher for all targeted students in the response‐card condition. The teacher asked a similar number of questions in both conditions; however, she provided more feedback in the response‐card condition.
THE DISCRIMINATION OF OBJECT NAMES AND OBJECT SOUNDS IN CHILDREN WITH AUTISM: A PROCEDURE FOR TEACHING VERBAL COMPREHENSION
Authors: Eikeseth Svein , Hayward Diane W
Published: June 2010

We assessed whether 2 preschoolers with autism learned to discriminate between the sounds of musical instruments more rapidly than the spoken names of the instruments. After the children learned the sound‐object relations more rapidly than the name‐object relations, we then evaluated a prompt‐delay procedure for transferring stimulus control from the sounds to the names of the instruments. The prompt‐delay procedure facilitated the acquisition of name—object relations for both children.
PARAMETRIC ANALYSIS OF PRESESSION EXPOSURE TO EDIBLE AND NONEDIBLE STIMULI
Authors: Sy Jolene R , Borrero John C , Zarcone Jennifer
Published: June 2010

We assessed the effects of individually defined small, medium, and large periods of presession access to edible and nonedible reinforcers on response rates during sessions in which responding produced access to identical reinforcers. Any presession access to an edible reinforcer decreased response rates for 1 participant, and small and medium periods of presession access to nonedible reinforcers resulted in similar or increased response rates for 2 participants.
THE EFFECTS OF VIDEO MODELING ON STAFF IMPLEMENTATION OF A PROBLEM‐SOLVING INTERVENTION WITH ADULTS WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES
Authors: Collins Shawnee , Higbee Thomas S , Salzberg Charles L
Published: June 2010

We investigated the effects of video modeling on the percentage of correctly implemented problem‐solving steps by staff in a group home for adults with developmental disabilities, using a nonconcurrent multiple baseline design across participants. The treatment consisted of staff watching a video model demonstrating the correct implementation of a problem‐solving intervention (i.e., teaching clients to identify problems, possible solutions, and consequences to each solution, and to choose the best solution). The percentage of correctly implemented problem‐solving steps increased for all participants, and the effect was maintained over time, generalized to novel problems, and generalized from role play with a researcher to actual clients.
FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS AND TREATMENT OF RUMINATION USING FIXED‐TIME DELIVERY OF A FLAVOR SPRAY
Authors: Wilder David A , Register Martisa , Register Stanley , Bajagic Vedrana , Neidert Pamela L , Thompson Rachel
Published: June 2010

A functional analysis suggested that rumination exhibited by an adult with autism was maintained by automatic reinforcement. Next, a preference assessment with three flavor sprays (i.e., flavored sprays used by dieters) showed that apple pie spray was most preferred. Finally, the effects of fixed‐time delivery of the apple pie spray on levels of rumination were evaluated. The spray reduced rumination, and the participant was taught to self‐administer the spray.
ENHANCING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF A PLAY INTERVENTION BY ABOLISHING THE REINFORCING VALUE OF STEREOTYPY: A PILOT STUDY
Authors: Lang Russell , O'Reilly Mark , Sigafoos Jeff , Lancioni Giulio E , Machalicek Wendy , Rispoli Mandy , White Pamela , Zarcone Jennifer
Published: June 2010

An alternating treatments design compared one condition in which a child with autism was allowed to engage in stereotypy freely prior to the intervention (abolishing operation component) to a second condition without the free‐access period. Levels of stereotypy and problem behavior were lower and levels of functional play were higher in the condition with the abolishing operation component. These data provide preliminary support for the use of abolishing operations in interventions to increase the play skills of children with autism.
USE OF CHAINING TO INCREASE COMPLEXITY OF ECHOICS IN CHILDREN WITH AUTISM
Authors: Tarbox Jonathan , Madrid Wendy , Aguilar Barbara , Jacobo Wendy , Schiff Averil , Ninness Chris
Published: June 2010

Echoics are a critical target of language intervention for children with autism, because a well‐established echoic repertoire on the part of the child allows the clinician to use vocal modeling as a flexible, low‐effort prompting procedure during teaching. In this study, we implemented a chaining procedure to increase the complexity of echoics in 2 children with autism and 1 child with developmental delay. The procedure was effective for all 3 participants, and gains were maintained after treatment was withdrawn in most cases.
TARGETING SOCIAL SKILLS DEFICITS IN AN ADOLESCENT WITH PERVASIVE DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDER
Authors: Hagopian Louis P , Kuhn David E , Strother Geri E , Van Houten Ron
Published: June 2010

Social skills deficits are a defining feature of individuals diagnosed with autism and other pervasive developmental disorders (PDD), which can impair functioning and put the individual at higher risk for developing problem behavior (e.g., self‐injury, aggression). In the current study, an adolescent with PDD displayed inappropriate social behavior (inappropriate comments, social withdrawal, and touching others without their permission) during social interactions. An intervention using instructions, differential reinforcement, and corrective feedback successfully reduced inappropriate social behaviors.
Preparation and characterization of novel oxo-centered basic p-chlorobenzoic bridging trinuclear complexes
Authors: Khosravi Iman , Yazdanbakhsh Mohammad
Published: June 2010

Three new oxo-centered trinuclear complexes, one of them a mixed-valence complex [Mn3O(C7H4O2Cl)6(Py)3]Py (1) and the others, mixed-metal complexes of [Fe2MnO(C7H4O2Cl)6(Py)3]NO3 (2) and [Fe2CoO(C7H4O2Cl)6(Py)3] (3) were synthesized by the direct reaction between metal nitrates and p-chlorobenzoic acid. These complexes were characterized by elemental analyses (CHN), atomic absorption spectroscopy and spectral (IR, electronic) studies. These are new type of oxo-bridged mixed-metal complexes in which the carboxylate ligand is pchlorobenzoic acid. The UV spectra of the complexes exhibited a strong band in the region 42,500 cm-1 which is related to the (? ? ?*) transitions of the pyridine ligand. The IR spectra of these compounds showed two strong stretching vibrations bands, indicating a bridging coordination mode of the carboxylic group of the ligand in the complexes.
In vitro expression of receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand and osteoprotegerin in cultured equine articular cells
Authors: Byron Christopher R. , Barger Anne M. , Stewart Allison A. , Pondenis Holly C. , Fan Timothy M.
Published: June 2010

Objective—To determine concentrations of receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) and osteoprotegerin (OPG) in equine chondrocytes and synoviocytes and to quantify changes in the OPG:RANKL ratio in response to exogenous factors.

Sample Population—Samples of articular cartilage and synovium with grossly normal appearance obtained from metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal joints of 5 adult (1- to 8-year-old) horses.

Procedures—Cell cultures of chondrocytes and synoviocytes were incubated with human recombinant interleukin-1B (hrIL-1β; 10 ng/mL), lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 10 μg/mL), or dexamethasone (100nM) for 48 hours. Negative control cultures received no treatment. Cells and spent media were assayed for RANKL and OPG concentrations by use of western blot and immunocytochemical analyses. Spent media were also assayed for OPG concentration by use of an ELISA.

Results—RANKL and OPG were expressed in equine chondrocytes and synoviocytes in vitro. Cell-associated RANKL and OPG concentrations were not impacted by exogenous factors. Soluble RANKL release into media was significantly increased by hrIL-1β in chondrocyte but not in synoviocyte cultures. Soluble OPG release into media was significantly increased by hrIL-1β and LPS in chondrocyte but not in synoviocyte cultures. The soluble OPG:RANKL ratio was significantly increased by LPS in chondrocyte cultures. Dexamethasone decreased OPG expression in synoviocytes.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—RANKL and OPG proteins were expressed in equine articular cells. Release of these proteins may affect osteoclastogenesis within adjacent subchondral bone. Thus, RANKL and OPG may have use as biomarkers and treatment targets in horses with joint disease.
Evaluation of tissue factor procoagulant activity on the surface of feline leukocytes in response to treatment with lipopolysaccharide and heat-inactivated fetal bovine serum
Authors: Stokol Tracy , Daddona Janelle L. , Choi Boran
Published: June 2010

Objective—To use a chromogenic assay to measure tissue factor (TF) activity on the cell surface and in whole cell lysates of feline monocytes in response to treatment with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and fetal bovine serum (FBS).

Animals—14 healthy cats.

Procedures—Peripheral blood monocytes were isolated via density gradient centrifugation followed by adhesion to plastic. Tissue factor procoagulant activity was measured by use of an assay that detects TF-activated factor X, on the basis of cleavage of a chromogenic TF-activated factor X–dependent substrate. Activity was quantified by comparison with a serially diluted human recombinant TF-activated factor × curve.

Results—The TF procoagulant activity assay was sensitive and specific for TF. Treatment with LPS stimulated TF procoagulant activity on the surface and in whole cell lysates of isolated feline leukocytes. The LPS response in intact cells was dose dependent and cell number dependent and was inhibited by FBS. Monocyte isolation was inefficient, with monocytes comprising a mean of 22% of the isolated cells.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—A TF-activated factor X–dependent chromogenic assay that uses human reagents successfully measured surface-expressed and intracellular TF activity of feline monocytes. Treatment with LPS induced TF expression on feline monocytes, but this response was inhibited by FBS. The chromogenic assay was a useful method for measuring TF procoagulant activity in feline cells in vitro and can be used as a research tool to investigate the role of cell-associated TF in thrombotic disorders in cats.
Effect of glucocorticoid administration on serum aldosterone concentration in clinically normal dogs
Authors: Corrigan Anne M. , Behrend Ellen N. , Martin Linda G. , Kemppainen Robert J.
Published: June 2010

Objective—To evaluate the effects of oral administration of anti-inflammatory dosages of prednisone for 28 days on serum aldosterone, cortisol, and electrolyte concentrations in clinically normal dogs.

Animals—10 dogs.

Procedures—On days 1 through 28, 5 dogs received prednisone (0.55 mg/kg, PO, q 12 h) and 5 dogs received similar treatments with a placebo (empty capsules). Serum cortisol and aldosterone concentrations before and after ACTH stimulation testing and serum electrolyte concentrations were measured before (day 0 [baseline]), during (days 7, 14, 21, and 28), and after (days 35 and 42) treatment.

Results—At baseline, variables did not differ between the 2 groups. Serum cortisol concentrations before and after ACTH stimulation testing did not change from baseline values in placebo-treated dogs. In prednisone-treated dogs, serum chloride and corrected chloride concentrations were significantly lower on days 7, 14, 21, and 28 and serum bicarbonate concentrations were significantly higher on days 14, 21, and 28, compared with baseline values. Serum cortisol concentrations before and after ACTH stimulation testing were significantly lower than baseline values during prednisone treatment. Serum aldosterone concentration after ACTH stimulation testing was significantly lower than baseline on day 35 (ie, 1 week after discontinuation of prednisone treatment) but returned to baseline by day 42 in prednisone-treated dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Administration of anti-inflammatory dosages of prednisone caused significant changes in serum chloride, bicarbonate, and cortisol concentrations in clinically normal dogs. Although ACTH-stimulated serum aldosterone concentrations were unchanged from baseline during glucocorticoid administration, values decreased after treatment cessation but quickly returned to baseline values.
Evaluation of the ratio of collagen type III to collagen type I in periurethral tissues of sexually intact and neutered female dogs
Authors: Byron Julie K. , Graves Thomas K. , Becker Michael D. , Cosman Joseph F. , Long Erin M.
Published: June 2010

Objective—To determine the ratio of collagen type III to collagen type I in the periurethral tissues of sexually intact and neutered female dogs.

Animals—8 neutered and 34 sexually intact female dogs.

Procedures—Tissues were obtained from female dogs euthanized for non–urinary tract–related reasons. Indirect immunofluorescent antibody detection of type I and collagen type III was performed by use of confocal microscopy on 2 periurethral samples from each dog, and the ratios of collagen type III to type I area fraction and total area were determined.

Results—No significant differences were detected in the collagen ratios of periurethral tissues between sexually intact and neutered female dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In contrast to differences in periurethral collagen content found between pre- and postmenopausal women, such differences may not occur in dogs. This implies that changes in pelvic organ support structures may not play an important role in urinary incontinence in neutered female dogs. Further evaluation is needed to determine the role of age on collagen and pelvic organ support structures in the pathogenesis of canine urinary incontinence.
Serum 17α-hydroxyprogesterone concentrations during the reproductive cycle in healthy dogs and dogs with hyperadrenocorticism
Authors: Brömel Catharina , Feldman Edward C. , Davidson Autumn P. , Nelson Richard W. , Kass Philip H. , Esteller Vico Alejandro , Labelle Philippe , Munro Coralie J. , Conley Alan J.
Published: June 2010

Objective—To determine concentrations of 17α-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP) in serum of healthy bitches during various stages of the reproductive cycle and in bitches with hyperadrenocorticism and to compare the dynamics of 17OHP with those of progesterone.

Design—Prospective evaluation study.

Animals—15 healthy sexually intact bitches and 28 spayed bitches with hyperadrenocorticism.

Procedures—11 healthy bitches were evaluated during estrus, nonpregnant diestrus, and anestrus (group 1); 4 other healthy bitches were evaluated during pregnancy and after ovariohysterectomy (group 2). Cycle stages were determined via physical examination, vaginal cytologic evaluation, and serum progesterone concentration. Bitches with hyperadrenocorticism were evaluated once at the time of diagnosis (group 3). Serum hormone concentrations were determined with immunoassays.

Results—In group 1, the serum 17OHP concentration was significantly higher in diestrus (median, 1.8 ng/mL) than in estrus (median, 1.1 ng/mL) and anestrus (median, 0.2 ng/mL) and higher in estrus than in anestrus. Changes in serum progesterone concentrations accounted for 22% (estrus) or 23% (diestrus) of the variation in serum 17OHP concentrations. In group 2, 17OHP and progesterone concentrations were significantly higher during pregnancy than after ovariohysterectomy. The serum 17OHP concentration in group 3 was significantly lower (median, 0.2 ng/mL) than in group 1 in estrus and diestrus and in group 2 during pregnancy (median, 0.7 ng/mL) but was not different from 17OHP concentrations in anestrus or after ovariohysterectomy (median, 0.2 ng/mL).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Serum 17OHP concentrations in healthy bitches increased during estrus, diestrus, and pregnancy and at those times were higher than in spayed bitches with hyperadrenocorticism.
Comparison of survival after surgical or medical treatment in dogs with a congenital portosystemic shunt
Authors: Greenhalgh Stephen N. , Dunning Mark D. , McKinley Trevelyan J. , Goodfellow Mark R. , Kelman Khama R. , Freitag Thurid , O'Neill Emma J. , Hall Ed J. , Watson Penny J. , Jeffery Nick D.
Published: June 2010

Objective—To compare survival of dogs with a congenital portosystemic shunt (CPSS) that received medical or surgical treatment.

Design—Prospective cohort study.

Animals—126 client-owned dogs with a single CPSS.

Procedures—Dogs were examined at 1 of 3 referral clinics, and a single CPSS was diagnosed in each. Dogs received medical or surgical treatment without regard to signalment, clinical signs, or results of hematologic or biochemical analysis. Survival data were analyzed via a Cox regression model.

Results—During a median follow-up period of 579 days, 18 of 126 dogs died as a result of CPSS. Dogs treated via surgical intervention survived significantly longer than did those treated medically. Hazard ratio for medical versus surgical treatment of CPSS (for the treatment-only model) was 2.9 (95% confidence interval, 1.1 to 7.2). Age at CPSS diagnosis did not affect survival.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Both medical and surgical treatment can be used to achieve long-term survival of dogs with CPSS, although results of statistical analysis supported the widely held belief that surgery is preferable to medical treatment. However, the study population consisted of dogs at referral clinics, which suggested that efficacy of medical treatment may have been underestimated. Although surgical intervention was associated with a better chance of long-term survival, medical management provided an acceptable first-line option. Age at examination did not affect survival, which implied that early surgical intervention was not essential. Dogs with CPSS that do not achieve acceptable resolution with medical treatment can subsequently be treated surgically.
Screen-printed electrodes modified with HRP-zirconium alcoxide film for the development of a biosensor for acetaminophen detection
Authors: Sima Veronica , Cristea Cecilia , Bodoki Ede , Duţu Gabriela , Sāndulescu Robert
Published: June 2010

The development of a biosensor based on the immobilization of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) within a zirconium alkoxide-polyetilenimine film onto screen-printed electrodes (SPE) for acetaminophen detection and acetaminophen quantification in pharmaceutical products is described. The biosensor operation mode is based on monitoring the amperometric signal produced by the electrochemical reduction of the enzymatically generated electroactive oxidized species of acetaminophen in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. The enzyme immobilization is performed by retention in a polyethylenimine-zirconium alcoxide porous gel film, a technique that offers good entrapping and a protective environment for the biocomponent due to the hydration properties of the immobilization layer. SPEs have the advantage of being easily mass-produced at low costs with superior characteristics in comparison with classical electrode materials. In this configuration, zirconium alkoxide demonstrates its electrocatalytic activity. The biosensor allows the quantification of acetaminophen with a limit of detection of 6.21×10−8 M and a linear range between 4.35×10−7 M and 4.98×10−6 M. Finally, the biosensor is applied to the quantitative analysis of acetaminophen in Perdolan® tablets.
Nickel and palladium complexes of enolatefunctionalised N-heterocyclic carbenes
Authors: Shanmuganathan Saravanakumar , Kühl Olaf , Jones Peter , Heinicke Joachim
Published: June 2010

The reaction of chloroethyltrimethylsilylether with 1-methylimidazole furnishes an ionic liquid that undergoes methanolysis to crystalline 2-hydroxyethylimidazolium chloride (crystal structure presented). Conversion to defined hydroxyethylimidazol-2-ylidene nickel complexes failed, but was accomplished with 1-methyl-3-acetophenyl-imidazolium bromide. The bis(NHC⋂O−) nickel(II) chelate is formed, rather than a methallylnickel monochelate, but with nickelocene a monochelate NiCp complex was detected. The bulky 1-(2,6-diisopropylphenyl)-3-(2’-phenyl-enolato)-imidazol-2-ylidene allylpalladium chloride was obtained in pure form. Attempts to generate catalysts for ethylene oligomerization by in situ techniques have failed so far whereas P⋂O− ligands, comparable by the P-C diagonal relationship, provide active catalysts.
Completely nonmeasurable unions
Authors: Rałowski Robert , Żeberski Szymon
Published: June 2010

Assume that no cardinal κ < 2ω is quasi-measurable (κ is quasi-measurable if there exists a κ-additive ideal of subsets of κ such that the Boolean algebra P(κ)/ satisfies c.c.c.). We show that for a metrizable separable space X and a proper c.c.c. σ-ideal II of subsets of X that has a Borel base, each point-finite cover ⊆ $$ \mathbb{I} $$ of X contains uncountably many pairwise disjoint subfamilies , with $$ \mathbb{I} $$-Bernstein unions ∪ (a subset A ⊆ X is $$ \mathbb{I} $$-Bernstein if A and X \ A meet each Borel $$ \mathbb{I} $$-positive subset B ⊆ X). This result is a generalization of the Four Poles Theorem (see [1]) and results from [2] and [4].
The surface topography of Eudiplozoon nipponicum (Monogenea) developmental stages parasitizing carp (Cyprinus carpio L.)
Authors: Hodová Iveta , Matejusova Iveta , Gelnar Milan
Published: June 2010

Using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the external morphology of all developmental stages (egg, oncomiracidium, diporpa, just fused juvenile and adult) of the parasite, Eudiplozoon nipponicum (Monogenea, Diplozoidae), from the gills of carp was studied. During the ontogeny, the tegument, tegumentary and sensory structures are subsequently developed. The tegument of free swimming oncomiracidium occurs in two types — the ciliated and non-ciliated with numerous uniciliated sensory structures. An attachment apparatus starts to form during the oncomiracidium stage. Further developmental stages are adapted to the environment of the gills. Tegumentary folds become more apparent later in development and assist to the parasite’s attachment. In connection with its reproductive strategy, the two morphological structures of diporpa (ventral sucker and dorsal papilla) appear to play important role. On the gills, two individuals need to meet and these structures mediate the fusion between two diporpae. The hindbody of adult parasite is highly modified for attachment. The haptor, folds and lobular extensions are most developed. The forebody is flexible and able to interact with host gill tissue via the mouth and associated mouth structures. The process of food intake of the parasite was discussed.
High pressure macromolecular crystallography for structural biology: a review
Authors: Kurpiewska Katarzyna , Lewiński Krzysztof
Published: June 2010

In recent years, significant progress in high pressure macromolecular crystallography has been observed. It can be attributed both to the developments in experimental techniques, as well as to recognition of importance of high pressure protein studies in biochemistry and biophysics. The number of protein structures determined at pressure up to 1 GPa is growing. The unique advantages of this method can greatly improve the investigation of higher energy conformers of functional significance and our understanding of functionally important conformers, protein folding processes and the structural base of conformational diseases.
Non-specific immunity in rabbits infected with 10 strains of the rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus with different biological properties
Authors: Niedźwiedzka-Rystwej Paulina , Deptuła Wiesław
Published: June 2010

To determine the parameters of non-specific immunity in rabbits infected with 10 biologically different strains of the rabbit haemorrhagic disease (RHD) virus (BS89, Hagenow, Rainham, Frankfurt, Asturias, Vt97, Triptis, Hartmannsdorf, Pv97, 9905 RHDVa) the following indices were assessed: polimorphonuclear cell (PMN) adherence capacity, absorption index, percentage of absorbing cells, spontaneous, stimulated as well as spectrophotometric test for reduction of the nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT), metabolic activity coefficient of neutrophilic granulocytes, stimulation index, myeloperoxidase activity, lysozyme concentration and activity index. The symptoms and the percentage of mortality in animals infected were recorded. On the basis of the estimated parameters, the present study confirmed the existence of immunotypes among the strains of the RHD virus. However, the results did not indicate a connection between biological property of the RHD virus (haemagglutination capacity and generation of antigenic variants) and the immunological profile of the strains.
Diagnostic role of p16/INK4A protein in Human Papillomavirus (HPV) induced cervical dysplasia
Authors: Rajčáni Július , Adamkov Marián , Hybenova Jana , Jackuliak Jaroslav , Benčat Marian
Published: June 2010

The p16/INK4A protein is a cellular regulatory polypeptide over-expressed in the presence of high levels of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) coded E7 protein. This review outlines the use of p16 antigen staining in cervical biopsies as well as in PAP smears summarizing the corresponding literature and commenting the authors’ own experience. The p16 antigen is a reliable marker for dysplastic cells in CINII/CINIII (HSIL) lesions as viewed in cervical biopsies. When PAP smears were examined at large scale screening for p16 antigenreactive and atypical cells, considerable variations could be found especially in ASCUS graded lesions. Therefore, the presence of p16-reactive atypical cells in PAP smears should be interpreted together with the cytological signs of dysplasia, such as the altered N/C ratio. In addition, women revealing p16-positive ASCUS/LSIL specimens should be examined for the presence of HPV DNA. Detection of HPV DNA alone, i.e. in the absence of cytological screening has a low predictive value, since the clearance of HPV may occur even in the absence of morphological alterations. Combined cytological as well as molecular follow up contributes to the efficiency of diagnostic and increases the probability of correct interpretation of the pre-cancerous lesions by non-invasive techniques.
The gravity flow dynamics of submarine fan sedimentation in the Magura Basin of the Western Carpathians (Magura Nappe, Slovakia)
Authors: Teťák František
Published: June 2010

The gravity flow dynamics of submarine fan sedimentation in the Magura Basin of the Western Carpathians (Magura Nappe, Slovakia)

This article deals with the dynamics of the deep-water gravity flows sedimentation within the Magura Formation. This investigation is based on analysis of the Magura sandstone sedimentary structures studied on the outcrops. The final comparison of the sedimentary structures and cycles with the paleocurrent directions provided an interpretation of the gravity flows dynamics and helped to restore the migration of the sandy lobes in space and time. Three modes of sedimentation are recorded: regular cyclic sedimentation from the lobe, irregular sedimentation from the immature lobe and pelitic sedimentation on the basin plane without the lobe influence. We compared the occurrence of some sedimentary structures with the changes of the current directions and bed thickness. The following interpretations of gravity flow fan dynamics are results of this comparision: the fan consists of one or several lobes, the lobe branches out into branches with the radial current arrangement, the lobes laterally change position and the lobes suddenly die out.
Reconstruction of Cenozoic paleostress fields and revised tectonic history in the northern part of the Central Western Carpathians (the Spišská Magura and Východné Tatry Mountains)
Authors: Vojtko Rastislav , Tokárováá Eva , Sliva Ľubomír , Pešková Ivana
Published: June 2010

Reconstruction of Cenozoic paleostress fields and revised tectonic history in the northern part of the Central Western Carpathians (the Spišská Magura and Východné Tatry Mountains)

This study investigates the chronology of paleostress evolution and faulting in the northern part of the Central Western Carpathians (Spišská Magura and Východné Tatry Mts). Paleostress analysis of brittle and semibrittle structures of the Eocene-Oligocene succession of the Central Carpathian Paleogene Basin (CCPB) supplemented by measurements in the Triassic sequence of the Krížna Nappe, revealed the existence of six tectonic regimes during the Cenozoic. Orientation of the paleostress field before the deposition of the CCPB was characterized by the E-W oriented compression. After this compression, the paleostress field rotated approximately 40-50°, and NW-SE directed compression took place in the Early Miocene. During the latest Early Miocene, the extensional tectonic regime with fluctuation of σ3orientation between NW-SE to NE-SW dominated. The Late Badenian-Pannonian is characterized by a new compressive to strike-slip tectonic regime during which the principal maximum stress axis σ1progressively rotated from a NW-SE to a NE-SW position. Uplift and tilting of the Tatra Massif took place during this stage. The neotectonic stage (Pliocene to Holocene) is characterized by extensional tectonic regime with the two directions of tension. The first one is oriented in the E-W direction and could be considered older and the second one, NNW-SSE tension is considered to be Late Pliocene to Quaternary in age. In general, orientation of the stress fields shows an apparent clockwise rotation from the Oligocene to Quaternary times. This general clockwise rotation of the Oligocene to Quaternary paleostress fields could be explained by both the effect of the counter-clockwise rotation of the ALCAPA microplate and by the regional stress field changes.
Prospective surveillance of complications in a pediatric neurosurgery unit
Authors: Drake James M. , Riva-Cambrin Jay , Jea Andrew , Auguste Kurtis , Tamber Mandeep , Lamberti-Pasculli Maria
Published: June 2010

Object

Complications of specific pediatric neurosurgical procedures are well recognized. However, focused surveillance on a specific neurosurgical unit, for all procedures, may lead to better understanding of the most important complications, and allow targeted strategies for quality improvement.

Methods

The authors prospectively recorded the morbidity and mortality events at a large pediatric neurosurgical unit over a 2-year period. Morbidity was defined as any significant adverse outcome or death (for obstructive shunt failure, within 30 days). Multiple and unrelated complications in the same patient were recorded as separate events.

Results

There were 1082 surgical procedures performed during the evaluation period. One hundred seventy-seven complications (16.4%) occurred in 147 patients. By procedure, the most common complications occurred in vascular surgery (41.7%) and brain tumor surgery (27.9%). The most common complications were CSF leakage (31 cases), a new neurological deficit (27 cases), early shunt or endoscopic third ventriculostomy obstruction (27 cases), and shunt infection (24 cases). Meningitis occurred in 19 cases: in 58% of shunt infections, 13% of CSF leaks, and 10% of wound infections. Sixty-four percent of adverse events required a second procedure, most commonly an external ventricular drain placement or shunt revision.

Conclusions

Complications in pediatric neurosurgical procedures are common, result in significant morbidity, and more than half the time require a repeat surgical procedure. Targeted strategies to prevent common complications, such as shunt infections or CSF leaks, might significantly reduce this burden.
Late obstruction of an endoscopic third ventriculostomy stoma by metastatic seeding of a recurrent medulloblastoma
Authors: Nigri Flávio , Telles Carlos , Acioly Marcus André
Published: June 2010

Endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) has been established as an effective method in the treatment of tumoral obstructive hydrocephalus. Delayed closure of the ETV stoma has been attributed to scarring involving the third ventricular floor. Secondary obstruction of the stoma due to intraventricular tumor seeding is an extremely rare condition, with only one case described to date. The authors report on a unique case of late closure of the ETV stoma caused by metastatic seeding of a recurrent medulloblastoma 9 years after the initial treatment. The patient was submitted to a second endoscopic procedure in which a reddish mass located just at the third ventricular floor was resected, leading to reopening of the previous ETV stoma.

To the best of the authors' knowledge, this case is the first report of an ETV obstruction due to metastatic CSF seeding of a medulloblastoma. In such cases of late failure of the ETV stoma because of tumor obstruction, a second ETV can be safely performed and lead to adequate function of the stoma, even if limited by the aggressive nature of the disease.
Clear cell meningioma causing Castleman syndrome in a child
Authors: Sato Takashi , Sugiyama Takeshi , Kawataki Tomoyuki , Sato Eiji , Horikoshi Toru , Sugita Kanji , Kinouchi Hiroyuki
Published: June 2010

This 11-year-old boy presented with a rare case of Castleman syndrome caused by a clear cell meningioma manifesting as persistent fever of unknown origin, 2 years after glomerulonephritis. Laboratory investigation of the patient showed an increased inflammatory reaction, as well as elevated polyclonal gamma globulin titer and serum level of C-reactive protein. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a tumor at the cerebellopontine angle. Neurosurgical intervention was performed under the presumptive diagnosis of Castleman syndrome caused by intracranial tumor. Histological examination of the tumor verified that it was clear cell meningioma with infiltration of lymphoplasma cells, and surgical removal resulted in complete resolution of the patient's symptoms and biochemical abnormalities. The present case of clear cell meningioma manifesting as Castleman syndrome shows that the possibility of a brain tumor should be considered in patients presenting with fever of unknown origin, anemia, hypergammaglobulinemia, or other systemic illness.
Extradural developmental dural root sleeve cyst presenting as a lumbar paraspinal mass with renal compression in an infant
Authors: Srinivas Balaji , Joseph Vivek , Chacko Geeta , Rajshekhar Vedantam
Published: June 2010

Spinal extradural cysts do not normally present as a visible paraspinal mass or cause compression of the abdominal organs. The authors describe the case of a 9-month-old boy with multiple spinal extradural cysts. The largest of these cysts was along the right L-2 nerve root with significant extraspinal extension resulting in a visible slow-growing swelling in the right paraspinal region and radiological evidence of compression of the right kidney with hydronephrosis. Another large cyst along the left T-12 root caused radiologically evident compression of the left kidney but to a lesser degree. The patient also had monoparesis of the left lower limb and phenotypic features of Noonan syndrome. The authors performed marsupialization of the cysts, as well as repair of the fistula between the subarachnoid space and the cyst on the right side along the L-2 root and on the left side along the T-12 root. At 1-year follow-up, there was no paraspinal mass and the lower limbs exhibited normal power. Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed marked reduction in the size of the cysts and relief of the renal compression. To the authors' knowledge, their patient is the youngest reported in literature to have a spinal extradural cyst and also the first with the cyst presenting as a paraspinal mass.
Prevalence and natural history of arachnoid cysts in children
Authors: Al-Holou Wajd N. , Yew Andrew Y. , Boomsaad Zackary E. , Garton Hugh J. L. , Muraszko Karin M. , Maher Cormac O.
Published: June 2010

Object

Arachnoid cysts are a frequent finding on intracranial imaging in children. The prevalence and natural history of these cysts are not well defined. The authors studied a large consecutive series of children undergoing MR imaging to better define both the MR imaging–demonstrated prevalence and behavior of these lesions over time.

Methods

The authors reviewed a consecutive series of 11,738 patients who were 18 years of age or younger and had undergone brain MR imaging at a single institution during an 11-year period. In the patients in whom intracranial arachnoid cysts were identified, clinical and demographic information was recorded and imaging characteristics, such as cyst size and location, were evaluated. Prevalence data were analyzed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression, linear regression, and ANOVA. All patients with sufficient data (repeat MR imaging studies as well as repeated clinical evaluation over at least 5 months) for a natural history analysis were identified. This group was assessed for any change in symptoms or imaging appearance during the follow-up interval.

Results

Three hundred nine arachnoid cysts (2.6% prevalence rate) were identified. There was an increased prevalence of arachnoid cysts in males (p < 0.000001). One hundred eleven patients met all criteria for inclusion in the natural history analysis. After a mean follow-up of 3.5 years, 11 arachnoid cysts increased in size, 13 decreased, and 87 remained stable. A younger age at presentation was significantly associated with cyst enlargement (p = 0.001) and the need for surgery (p = 0.05). No patient older than 4 years of age at the time of initial diagnosis had cyst enlargement, demonstrated new symptoms, or underwent surgical treatment.

Conclusions

Arachnoid cysts are a common incidental finding on intracranial imaging in pediatric patients. An older age at the time of presentation is associated with a lack of clinical or imaging changes over time.