bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Involvement of NF-κB activation in the apoptosis induced by extracellular adenosine in human hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cellsThis paper is one of a selection of papers published in this special issue entitled “Second International Symposium on Recent Advances in Basic, Clinical, and Social Medicine” and has undergone the Journal's usual peer review process.
Authors: Wu Ling-Fei , Li Guo-Ping , Su Jian-Dong , Pu Ze-Jin , Feng Jia-Lin , Ye Yan-Qing , Wei Bi-Liu
Published: July 2010

Adenosine can exhibit cytotoxic activity in vivo and in vitro, though its mechanisms are still uncertain. In this study, we investigated the adenosine-mediated apoptotic signaling pathway and the role of NF-κB in human hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells. HepG2 cells were treated with different concentrations of adenosine for 12–48 h, and the effect of adenosine on cell proliferation was evaluated by MTT assay. The cytotoxicity of adenosine alone or in combination with an NF-κB inhibitor, pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC), was also evaluated by MTT assay and the mode of cell death was detected by Hoechst 33342 staining. Cell cycle progress was performed by flow cytometry with PI staining. The protein expressions of Bcl-2, p53, NF-κB subunit p65, and caspase-3 were assayed by Western blot. Caspase-3 activity was measured by spectrophotomteric assay. The results showed that adenosine significantly reduced the viability of HepG2 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner, with IC50(24 and 48 h) of 2.52 and 1.89 mmol·L–1, respectively. The apoptotic index (percentage of sub-G1phase) of HepG2 cells in adenosine treatment alone for 12 and 24 h or in combination with PDTC were 8.30%, 22.32% and 20.18%, 30.89%, respectively. All of them were higher than that in the control group (0.81%, p < 0.01). The characteristic changes of cell apoptosis (chromatin condensation and sub-G1peak) were observed under fluorescent microscopy and flow cytometry. We also found that the apoptotic process triggered by adenosine was involved in G0–G1cell-cycle arrest, enhanced the activity of caspase-3, upregulated p53 and NF-κB p65 expression, and downregulated Bcl-2 expression. Inhibition of NF-κB by PDTC decreased NF-κB p65 expression, enhanced cell apoptosis ratio, and increased caspase-3 activity. NF-κB may play an anti-apoptosis role in adenosine-induced HepG2 cytotoxicity.
The protective effects of Egr-1 antisense oligodeoxyribonucleotide on cardiac microvascular endothelial injury induced by hypoxia–reoxygenationThis paper is one of a selection of papers published in this special issue entitled “Second International Symposium on Recent Advances in Basic, Clinical, and Social Medicine” and has undergone the Journal's usual peer review process.
Authors: Zhou Yanqiong , Shi Ganggang , Zheng Jinhong , Huang Zhanqin , Gao Fenfei , Zhang Yanmei , Guo Fuxiao , Jia Qiangyong , Zheng Yanshan
Published: July 2010

Early growth response 1 (Egr-1) over-expression has been demonstrated in myocardial ischemia–reperfusion injury, which is closely associated with endothelial dysfunction. In the present study we investigated the expression of Egr-1 on cultured cardiac microvascular endothelial cells (CMECs) to help define the mechanism of myocardial ischemia–reperfusion injury. A model of cultured CMECs exposed to hypoxia–reoxygenation was developed in which synthesized Egr-1 sense and antisense oligodeoxyribonucleotide were transfected into the cells. The expression of Egr-1 was examined by Western blot analysis. Lactate dehydrogenase, malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, tumor necrosis factor α, and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 were measured after hypoxia–reoxygenation to assess cell function and injury. Cell morphology, cell viability, and neutrophil adhesion to the CMECs were measured to assess the degree of injury and inflammation. Only cells transfected with Egr-1 antisense oligodeoxyribonucleotide showed a significant reduction in Egr-1 protein expression following hypoxia–reoxygenation. Consistent with the down-regulation of Egr-1 expression, other forms of cell injury were significantly reduced in this group of cells, as evidenced by less alteration in cell morphology, a decrease in expression of tumor necrosis factor α and intercellular adhesion molecule 1, improved cell survival, and reduced neutrophil adhesion.
Pandemic 2009 (A)H1N1 influenza (swine flu) — the Manitoba experienceThis paper is one of a selection of papers published in this special issue entitled “Second International Symposium on Recent Advances in Basic, Clinical, and Social Medicine” and has undergone the Journal's usual peer review process.
Authors: Embree Joanne
Published: July 2010

The pattern of illness associated with the first wave of the pandemic influenza A H1N1 (swine flu) in the spring and early summer of 2009 in regions of the province of Manitoba in Canada was more severe, on a population basis, than any other northern hemisphere jurisdiction outside of Mexico City. Manitoba accounted for 50% of intensive care admissions and 25% of pediatric admissions, but only 6.5% of deaths, attributable to the virus in Canada during the first wave. Activation and use of emergency response protocols embedded within the routine health authority management system and good communication between the diagnostic laboratory, public health, and health care practitioners was effective in coping with the sudden need for hospitalization of large numbers of children and young adults with severe respiratory illness over a short time period. Early treatment with oseltamivir was associated with a shorter duration of hospitalization among children. Intensive education of health care providers, patients, and visitors, along with close monitoring of infection prevention and control practices, were instrumental in preventing both nosocomial and health care worker infections.
Relationship among superoxide-related enzyme, PPARs, and endothelium-dependent relaxation in murine aortas previously organ-cultured in high-glucose conditions
Authors: Takenouchi Yasuhiro , Kobayashi Tsuneo , Taguchi Kumiko , Matsumoto Takayuki , Kamata Katsuo
Published: July 2010

The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship among superoxide anion, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), and endothelium-dependent relaxation in murine aortas organ-cultured in a high-glucose condition. Aortas organ-cultured with a high concentration of glucose (40 mmol/L, 20 h; HG group) exhibited the following characteristics (versus aortas cultured in serum-free medium): (i) significantly weaker relaxation to acetylcholine, but unchanged relaxation to SNP and unchanged contractions to norepinephrine and isotonic K+, (ii) significantly greater superoxide generation (indicated by the amount of nitroblue tetrazolium reduced, (iii) significantly higher protein expression levels of gp91phox, NAD(P)H oxidase subunits, and endothelial NO synthase, (iv) significantly lower protein expression level of Mn-superoxide dismutase (SOD), and (v) markedly greater reduction in the protein expression of PPARγ than in that of PPARα. The HG-induced impairment of endothelium-dependent relaxation was prevented by cotreatment with tempol (a SOD mimetic). These results suggest that in the mouse aorta, exposure to high glucose levels may lead to an excessive generation of superoxide via increased gp91phox and decreased Mn-SOD protein expression and that this may in turn trigger an impairment of endothelium-dependent relaxation. Moreover, such protein changes in gp91phox and Mn-SOD may be secondary to a decreased expression of PPARγ protein.
Involvement of sarcoplasmic reticulum in changing intracellular calcium due to Na+/K+-ATPase inhibition in cardiomyocytes
Authors: Saini-Chohan Harjot K. , Goyal Ramesh K. , Dhalla Naranjan S.
Published: July 2010

Earlier studies have demonstrated that ouabain-induced increase in [Ca2+]i, as a consequence of sarcolemma (SL) Na+/K+-ATPase inhibition, is associated with activation of both the SL Na+/Ca2+exchanger and SL Ca2+channels. In view of the importance of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) in the regulation of [Ca2+]i, this study examined the role of SR in ouabain-induced increase in [Ca2+]iin both quiescent and KCl-depolarized cardiomyocytes. For this purpose, adult rat cardiomyocytes were loaded with fura-2 and ouabain-induced changes in [Ca2+]iwere monitored upon treatment with or without different agents that are known to influence Ca2+handling by the intracellular organelles. Ouabain not only increased the basal [Ca2+]iand augmented KCl-induced increase in [Ca2+]ibut also produced similar effects on the ATP-induced increase in [Ca2+]i. Treatments of cardiomyocytes with caffeine, ryanodine, or cyclopiazonic acid, which affect SR Ca2+stores, attenuated the ouabain-induced increase in basal Ca2+as well as augmentation of the KCl response. Both ryanodine and cyclopiazonic acid produced additional effects, when used in combination with a SL Ca2+channel inhibitor (verapamil), but not with a Na+/Ca2+exchange inhibitor (KB-R7943). Inhibitors of Ca2+/calmodulin kinase, protein kinase A, and inositol-3-phosphate receptors were also observed to depress the ouabain-induced increase in [Ca2+]iin cardiomyocytes. On the other hand, mitochondrial Ca2+transport inhibitors did not exert any effect on the ouabain-induced alterations in [Ca2+]iin cardiomyocytes. Furthermore, ouabain did not show any direct effect on the Ca2+uptake and Ca2+release activities of SR or mitochondria. These results suggest an indirect involvement of SR Ca2+stores in the ouabain-induced increase in [Ca2+]iin cardiomyocytes and indicate the participation of both Ca2+-induced Ca2+release and regulatory mechanisms in this action.
Plant natural products: a primerThe present review is one in the special series of reviews on animal–plant interactions.
Authors: Bernards M. A.
Published: July 2010

Over the course of evolution, plants have adapted various structural and chemical mechanisms to protect themselves and interact with their environment. The chemical mechanisms are largely based on the secondary metabolites or natural products. Although plant natural products are generally divided into three main categories (terpenoids, alkaloids, and phenylpropanoids) that are based on structural type and biosynthetic origin, there are many other smaller categories of unique compounds. Many important in planta biological functions can be attributed to plant natural products, in large part, owing to their tremendous structural diversity. To understand the functional roles of plant natural products, both as protective compounds and interorganismal signals, it is important to know how they are formed in plants. This minireview provides a general background about the three main categories of plant natural products, their biosynthetic origins, and their structural diversity.
Visual observation of erosion processes on the Black Marl badlands in the southern Alps, France
Authors: Yamakoshi T. , Mathys N. , Klotz S.
Published: July 2010

To clarify the erosion processes on a marly bare slope in the southern Alps, the erosion processes on a steep and erodible slope composed of Black Marls formations were observed using a time-lapse video camera. The observations revealed that miniature debris flows (MDFs) occurred at the time of the rainfall–runoff event during which the most severe erosion took place over the 3 month observation period. Analysing the camera images, we show some characteristics of the MDFs and discuss them in the context of real rainfall–runoff phenomena observed at the outlet of the small experimental basin that contained the visually observed slope. The following results were obtained. (1) It is roughly estimated that the total amount of sediment discharged by the MDFs was not quantitatively negligible in comparison with the total sediment discharge from the entire experimental basin. (2) The MDFs occurred only during the rising limb of the hydrograph, which lasted 6 min. The visual observation also provided information on triggering conditions. Compared with the precipitation data, it was found that a rainfall intensity of 1 mm min
−1
triggered MDFs and an antecedent cumulative rainfall of 10.4 mm was also enough to trigger an MDF. This is consistent with a previous study in Draix. (3) Although the Darcy–Weisbach friction factor and Manning's
n
of the MDFs observed differ considerably, they are consistent with results in the literature reporting erosion phenomena on very steep slopes up to 36°. (4) Based on this observation and a review of the literature, on very steep and highly erodible slopes, MDFs or similar phenomena might play an important role in erosion and transport processes. It is important to consider this possibility when examining erosion models for catchments composed of steep and erodible slopes.
Relationship between the residual shear strength and the methylene blue value in weathered clay soils
Authors: Meisina C.
Published: July 2010

A new correlation is proposed between the residual shear strength and the methylene blue value (‘value of blue’; VB) for weathered clay soils on argillaceous bedrock and on alluvial soils in the Oltrepo Pavese area (Northern Italy), which can be considered as geologically representative of a large part of the Italian Apennines. Shallow landslides occur periodically in these soils as a result of high-intensity rainfall events. A number of soils were tested. Trench pits were used for sampling and for the soil profile description (lithology, structure, grade of weathering, thickness). Field surveys were integrated with some standard geotechnical laboratory tests. The methylene blue dye adsorption (VB) was determined in accordance with the French AFNOR standards. The residual strength friction angle was measured with direct shear tests; the procedure employed for the measure involved inserting the soil at the liquid limit in the direct shear ring, applying consolidation in stages and then shearing (Kanji method). The applicability of some existing correlations between the residual friction angle and index properties were tested. The correlations are characterized by a large amount of scatter in the data and tend to overestimate the residual friction angle. The VB test is easy and rapid to perform and appears to be a good indicator of the residual strength friction angle for the tested soils.
Weathering in the crystalline rocks of Calabria, Italy, and relationships to landslides
Authors: Calcaterra Domenico , Parise Mario
Published: July 2010

This paper reviews approximately 40 years of studies focused on landslides in weathered crystalline rocks of Calabria, southern Italy. In these studies geological, geomorphological, mineralogical, petrographical, engineering-geological and geotechnical aspects of the Palaeozoic granitoids and the high-grade metamorphic rocks cropping out in the Calabrian massifs have been considered. This in turn has allowed depiction of the regional landsliding scenario, where almost all the main typologies of mass movements have been recognized, ranging from shallow soil slips and extremely rapid debris flows to slow-moving deep-seated gravitational slope deformations. From north to south, the Sila Massif, Coastal Chain, and Poro, Serre and Aspromonte Massifs are described, with reference to the studies dealing with weathering and slope movements in the different geological and morphological settings. The regional extent of the weathering processes gave researchers the opportunity to adopt and calibrate mapping methods, specifically devoted to analysis and mitigation of the landslide hazard in weathered materials, which have also been applied to important civil engineering works. A further distinctive character of the Calabrian weathering is its age, which has been ascribed to Tertiary time. Such an ancient initiation could be regarded as one of the main reasons for the depth of the weathered mantle, which, despite the rugged topography, in some districts exceeds 150–200 m.
The Hunters Crossing weathered rock slide, Haywood County, North Carolina, USA
Authors: Latham Rebecca S. , Wooten Richard M. , Billington Edward D. , Gillon Kenneth A. , Witt Anne C. , Bauer Jennifer B. , Fuemmeler Stephen J. , Douglas Thomas J. , Kinner David , Waters-Tormey Cheryl
Published: July 2010

The Hunters Crossing landslide is a slow-moving, weathered rock slide affecting a small community of condominiums in the town of Waynesville in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Haywood County, North Carolina. In November 2005, studies were begun to assess the characteristics of this landslide and the potential for further movement and damage to structures. Work included drilling several boreholes, performing seismic velocity surveys, and surveying benchmarks among other investigations. Data indicate that the potential failure surface is located no more than 11 m below the ground surface, possibly at the contact between saprolite and partially weathered rock. However, inclinometers installed at two locations on the slope have not detected enough movement to corroborate that assessment. Studies continue at this site to determine the location of the failure surface, to identify the mechanisms that accelerate movement, and to relate these findings to a broader understanding of weathered rock slides elsewhere in the southeastern USA.
Visually significant edges
Authors: Aydin Tunç Ozan , Čadík Martin , Myszkowski Karol , Seidel Hans-Peter
Published: July 2010

Numerous image processing and computer graphics methods make use of either explicitly computed strength of image edges, or an implicit edge strength definition that is integrated into their algorithms. In both cases, the end result is highly affected by the computation of edge strength. We address several shortcomings of the widely used gradient magnitude-based edge strength model through the computation of a hypothetical Human Visual System (HVS) response at edge locations. Contrary to gradient magnitude, the resulting “visual significance” values account for various HVS mechanisms such as luminance adaptation and visual masking, and are scaled in perceptually linear units that are uniform across images. The visual significance computation is implemented in a fast multiscale second-generation wavelet framework which we use to demonstrate the differences in image retargeting, HDR image stitching, and tone mapping applications with respect to the gradient magnitude model. Our results suggest that simple perceptual models provide qualitative improvements on applications utilizing edge strength at the cost of a modest computational burden.
Secret key extraction in MIMO-like sensor networks using wireless signal strength
Authors: Premnath Sriram Nandha , Kasera Sneha K. , Patwari Neal
Published: July 2010

In this work, we evaluate the use of multiple sensors for secret key extraction. We find that the key generation rate increases linearly with the number of nodes. We show that the use of multiple nodes causes a significant mismatch in the extracted bits. We address the high bit mismatch problem by adding an iterative distillation stage to the key extraction process.
Influence of increased plasma osmolality on sympathetic outflow during apnea
Authors: Greaney Jody L. , Ray Chester A. , Prettyman Allen V. , Edwards David G. , Farquhar William B.
Published: July 2010

Animal models have shown that peripheral chemoreceptors alter their firing patterns in response to changes in plasma osmolality, which, in turn, may modulate sympathetic outflow. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that increases in plasma osmolality augment muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) responses to chemoreceptor activation. MSNA was recorded from the peroneal nerve (microneurography) during a 23-min intravenous hypertonic saline infusion (3% NaCl; HSI). Chemoreceptor activation was elicited by voluntary end-expiratory apnea. MSNA responses to end-expiratory apnea were calculated as the absolute increase from the preceding baseline period. Plasma osmolality significantly increased from pre- to post-HSI (284 ± 1 to 290 ± 1 mOsm/kg H2O; P < 0.01). There was a significant overall effect of osmolality on sympathetic activity ( P < 0.01). Duration of the voluntary end-expiratory apnea was not different after HSI (pre = 40 ± 5 s; post = 41 ± 4 s). MSNA responses to end-expiratory apnea were not different after HSI, expressed as an absolute change in burst frequency ( n = 11; pre = 8 ± 2; post = 11 ± 1 burst/min) and as a percent increase in total activity (pre = 51 ± 4% AU; post = 53 ± 4% AU). A second group of subjects ( n = 8) participated in 23-min volume/time-control intravenous isotonic saline infusions (0.9% NaCl). Isotonic saline volume-control infusions yielded no change in plasma osmolality or MSNA at rest. Furthermore, MSNA responses to apnea following isotonic saline infusion were not different. In summary, elevated plasma osmolality increased MSNA at rest and during apnea, but contrary to the hypothesis, MSNA responsiveness to apnea was not augmented. Therefore, this study does not support a neural interaction between plasma osmolality and chemoreceptor stimulation.
Representation of the Ipsilateral Visual Field by Neurons in the Macaque Lateral Intraparietal Cortex Depends on the Forebrain Commissures
Authors: Dunn Catherine A. , Colby Carol L.
Published: July 2010

Our eyes are constantly moving, allowing us to attend to different visual objects in the environment. With each eye movement, a given object activates an entirely new set of visual neurons, yet we perceive a stable scene. One neural mechanism that may contribute to visual stability is remapping. Neurons in several brain regions respond to visual stimuli presented outside the receptive field when an eye movement brings the stimulated location into the receptive field. The stored representation of a visual stimulus is remapped, or updated, in conjunction with the saccade. Remapping depends on neurons being able to receive visual information from outside the classic receptive field. In previous studies, we asked whether remapping across hemifields depends on the forebrain commissures. We found that, when the forebrain commissures are transected, behavior dependent on accurate spatial updating is initially impaired but recovers over time. Moreover, neurons in lateral intraparietal cortex (LIP) continue to remap information across hemifields in the absence of the forebrain commissures. One possible explanation for the preserved across-hemifield remapping in split-brain animals is that neurons in a single hemisphere could represent visual information from both visual fields. In the present study, we measured receptive fields of LIP neurons in split-brain monkeys and compared them with receptive fields in intact monkeys. We found a small number of neurons with bilateral receptive fields in the intact monkeys. In contrast, we found no such neurons in the split-brain animals. We conclude that bilateral representations in area LIP following forebrain commissures transection cannot account for remapping across hemifields.
Amygdala Size Reduction Is Associated with Memory Deficits in Complicated Hereditary Spastic Paraparesis: An MRI Study
Authors: Pinkhardt Elmar H. , Sperfeld Anne-D. , Uttner Ingo , Ludolph Albert C. , Kassubek Jan
Published: July 2010

Neuroimaging findings in hereditary spastic paraparesis (HSP), especially in complicated HSP (cHSP), are heterogenous. This study aimed to investigate possible in vivo morphological alterations of the whole brain and the amygdala in cHSP as a correlate of cognitive impairment in contrast to pure variants (pHSP). Amygdalar and whole brain volumes of 33 HSP patients (21 pHSP and 12 cHSP) were measured using three-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data sets by region of interest-based volumetry. A neuropsychological test battery was also performed. A significant reduction in whole brain volume compared with the controls, as well as significant correlations with reduced amygdalar volume and a worse neuropsychological test performance was observed only in cHSP patients. Our findings of disproportional amygdalar atrophy only in cHSP substantiate the association of morphologically assessable cerebral degeneration with cognitive impairment in cHSP.
Premature Circuit Clotting due to Likely Mechanical Failure during Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy
Authors: Kim In Byung , Fealy Nigel , Baldwin Ian , Bellomo Rinaldo
Published: July 2010

Objective: Failure of extracorporeal circuit (EC) function during continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) appears most likely due to progressive circuit clotting or, in some cases, most likely due to mechanical problems that affect flow. We aimed to study the incidence of such likely mechanical circuit failure (MCF). Design and Setting: Retrospective observational study in an adult ICU of a tertiary hospital. Patients and Measurements: We studied 30 patients treated with CRRT via femoral vein vascular access. We obtained information on age, gender, diagnosis, mode of CRRT, circuit life, and blood chemistry. We defined MCF as ‘likely’ if there was a reduction of between 60 and 80% in circuit life compared to the previous or following circuit life and ‘very likely’ if such a reduction was between 81 and 100%. Results: We studied 166 circuits in 30 different patients. Of these 26 were electively disconnected leaving 140 circuits with unplanned cessation of function. Among these circuits, likely MCF affected 10 circuits (7.1%) and very likely MCF affected 9 circuits (6.4%) for a total of 19 (13.6%) circuits. Conclusion: Mechanical circuit failure appears to affect approximately 1 in 8 circuits. Prospective studies are needed to understand why MCF occurs.
Effect of Acute Tryptophan Depletion on Emotions in Individuals with Personal and Family History of Depression following a Mood Induction
Authors: Altman Sarah E. , Shankman Stewart A. , Spring Bonnie
Published: July 2010

Background: Acute tryptophan depletion (ATD) has shown depletion-specific increases in depressed mood and overall depressive symptoms, especially in those with a family history and in remitted patients. However, its effect on a broad range of emotions beyond depressed mood has been inconsistent, and studies have rarely employed a negative mood induction. Method: The present double-blind study administered tryptophan-depleted and taste-matched placebo challenge drinks to individuals with a past diagnosis and family history of depression (i.e. depression-vulnerable subjects) and controls in order to investigate the effect of ATD on positive affect, anxiety, anger and depressed mood following a negative mood induction. Results: Certain aspects of positive affect decreased due to ATD in the depression vulnerables but not in the controls. No differential effects were found on depressed mood and anxiety. Conclusions: A stress-induced blunted hedonic capacity may increase vulnerability to ATD and may be a core emotional abnormality in depression. Additionally, serotonin may have a stronger influence on positive affect than on other depression-related emotions during periods of stress.
Long-Term Prognosis of Patients with Major Depression and Silent Cerebral Infarction
Authors: Yamashita H. , Fujikawa T. , Takami H. , Yanai I. , Okamoto Y. , Morinobu S. , Yamawaki S.
Published: July 2010

Objective: Many studies have examined the effects of cerebrovascular changes on treatment response in geriatric depression. However, few such studies have examined the relationship between cerebrovascular changes and long-term prognosis. We examined the effects of cerebrovascular changes on the course of geriatric depressive symptoms, dementia rates, and mortality over a follow-up period of approximately 10 years. Method: Participants were 84 patients with major depression (age of onset over 50 years); patients suffering from strokes, neurological disorders, and other psychiatric disorders were excluded. Magnetic resonance imaging findings were used to classify all patients into silent cerebral infarction (SCI)-positive (n = 37) or SCI-negative groups (n = 47). Prognoses were ascertained using a review of clinical charts and mailed questionnaires. Results: Only 5% of patients with SCI were able to maintain remission whereas 36% of patients without SCI were able to do so. Total duration of depressive episodes was significantly longer in the SCI-positive group than in the SCI-negative group. SCI was also associated with a higher risk of dementia. Conclusion: The results of this long-term follow-up study demonstrate that the presence of SCI is associated with a relatively poor prognosis in geriatric depression.
Intensity of female preference for call source level in midwife toads Alytes cisternasii and A. obstetricans
Authors: Márquez Rafael , Bosch Jaime , Eekhout Xavier
Published: July 2010

We address the question of whether female preference exerts selection on male calling energy (souce level). We investigate whether female midwife toads express a preference between advertisement calls that have different source levels but that reach them with similar intensities (due to differences in distance). Females were presented with pairs of recordings of identical synthetic calls, recorded at the same location in the field site, and reaching the microphone at similar sound levels (69 dB peak SPL). Stimulus 'Hi source level' was recorded two meters away from the sound source but emitted with higher sound intensity, and stimulus 'Low source level' was recorded one meter away from the source but emitted with lower source level. We use a protocol of 'playback setpoints' for tests with no a priori expectations. We did not find evidence of female preference for source level in either species. Alytes obstetricans females reversed their choice when differences in intensity were lower, suggesting lower selectivity during the approach phase. We conclude that any selection on male call intensity is unlikely to occur, possibly being severely limited by calling location (male–female distance) and by transmission conditions.
Are the alarm calls of North American red squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) functionally referential?
Authors: Digweed Shannon , Rendall Drew
Published: July 2010

North American red squirrels are a small-bodied and solitary-living species that faces a diversity of predators and produces two different variants of alarm calls in response to them. Recent studies have yielded conflicting interpretations of the predator-specific and functionally referential nature of these alarm call variants. We undertook a systematic set of playback experiments to quantify the responses of red squirrels to alarm calls produced by other squirrels during encounters with different predators. The experiment was designed to test a core requirement of functionally referential alarm calls, namely that different alarm call types induce distinct and functionally appropriate escape responses in listeners. Results indicated that squirrels registered and responded to alarm calls produced by others; however, their responses were not differentiated according to the type of alarm call they heard and, thus, did not provide evidence that the different alarm call variants hold any predator-specific, referential value. These outcomes are discussed in light of complementary work on alarm call production in red squirrels and broader aspects of this species' life history in an effort to better understand the necessary and sufficient pressures promoting the evolution of referential call systems in animals.
Schistonchus hirtus n. sp. (Nematoda: Aphelenchoididae), an associate of Ficus hirta in China
Authors: Zeng Yongsan , Ye Weimin , Giblin-Davis Robin M. , Li Changhui , Du Zhijian , Zhao Chen
Published: July 2010

A nematode recovered from syconia of Ficus hirta from Guangzhou, P. R. China, during a survey of nematode biodiversity from 2007 to 2009, is described herein as Schistonchus hirtus n. sp. and is differentiated by a combination of morphological characters, including excretory pore (EP) located near the metacorpus, a short post-uterine sac (PUS) (0.5 vulval body diam. (VBD) long), rose thorn-shaped spicules, amoeboid sperm, absence of gubernaculum, three pairs of subventral papillae on the male tail, host-Ficus and host-wasp species and DNA sequence data. Morphologically, S. hirtus n. sp. is close to S. centerae, S. altermacrophylla, S. aureus, S. laevigatus and S. virens based upon the length of the PUS (about 0.5 VBD long). However, the relative position of the EP in S. hirtus n. sp. is very different from these species (near metacorpus vs near head). With regard to the EP character, S. hirtus n. sp. is very similar to S. macrophylla, S. guangzhouensis and S. caprifici where the EP is at metacorpus level. However, S. hirtus n. sp. differs from S. macrophylla and S. guangzhouensis by possessing a shorter PUS and smaller spicules, and differs from S. caprifici by a shorter female stylet and smaller spicules. Schistonchus hirtus n. sp. was easily differentiated from other sequenced species by the proportion of parsimony informative changes in the partial small subunit rRNA gene (SSU) and D2/D3 expansion segments of the large subunit rRNA gene (LSU). Phylogenetic analysis with SSU sequences suggests that S. hirtus n. sp. is in a highly supported monophyletic clade with Aphelenchoides and Laimaphelenchus and is polyphyletic to other sequenced Schistonchus species. With LSU sequence data, it forms a clade with S. caprifici and they appear polyphyletic relative to S. guangzhouensis, S. centerae, S. aureus, S. laevigatus and S. virens.
Description of Bursaphelenchus paraparvispicularis n. sp. (Nematoda: Aphelenchoididae) found in packaging wood from Hongkong, China
Authors: Gu Jianfeng , Wang Jiangling , Duan Weijun , Braasch Helen , Burgermeister Wolfgang , Zheng Jingwu
Published: July 2010

Bursaphelenchus paraparvispicularis n. sp. is described and figured from pine packaging wood originating in Hongkong, China, and inspected in Ningbo harbour, China. The new species clearly belongs to the hofmanni group. It is characterised by a relatively stout body (a = 26.7 and 26.5 for males and females, respectively), three lines in the lateral field, seven caudal papillae, spicules relatively small (12.6-15.3 μm), mitten-shaped, with lamina dorsal line smoothly arcuate but calomus relatively straight, condylus squared or round, well developed, rostrum well developed with round terminus, cucullus absent, the shape of the female tail, which is short and ventrally bent with a bluntly pointed terminus, and vulval lips not forming a vulval flap. The new species is morphologically closest to B. parvispicularis and can be distinguished by smaller and stouter body, lower female ratio c′ (average 2.8 vs 4.4) and longer spicule condylus. The separate species status is supported by ITS-RFLP patterns and molecular phylogenetic analysis based on ITS1/2 and partial LSU sequences, which revealed that B. paraparvispicularis n. sp. is closest to B. parvispicularis.
Burrowing nematodes from Colombia and their relationship with Radopholus similis populations, R. arabocoffeae and R. duriophilus
Authors: Múnera Uribe Gladis Emilia , Bert Wim , Vierstraete Andy R. , de la Peña Eduardo , Moens Maurice , Decraemer Wilfrida
Published: July 2010

Two burrowing nematode populations from Colombia were characterised using morphological, morphometric and molecular criteria. The morphological and morphometric characters of the two populations did not differ from those of Radopholus similis. The phylogenetic analysis based on sequence comparison of 18S, D2D3 regions of these populations with those of Radopholus sp., R. similis and other Tylenchomorpha from GenBank confirmed the close molecular relationship between the genus Radopholus and the Hoplolaimidae. The consensus tree based on the comparison of ITS1-5.8-ITS2 rDNA sequences of the Colombian populations with R. similis (many sources), R. arabocoffeae and R. duriophilus from GenBank grouped the Colombian populations in a clade which also included R. similis from different localities. Other R. similis populations grouped in separated clades, which were closely related to the clade containing R. arabocoffeae and R. duriophilus. The high genetic variability among the R. similis populations was observed and confirmed by the high ITS1-5.8-ITS2 sequence divergence within the R. similis populations studied (5.4%) which was comparable to the divergence (4.2-6.9%) between the Radopholus species included in the analysis. These findings and the unresolved phylogenetic placement of R. arabocoffeae and R. duriophilus among R. similis suggests that the burrowing nematode could be a species complex. Limited information on the variability of the 18S and D2D3 region gives an indication of their possible value, besides ITS1-5.8-ITS, as molecular markers within Radopholus. No complete and comprehensible relation was found between the phylogenetic position of the Radopholus populations and their geographical origin or host.
Comparative morphometrics and ribosomal DNA sequence analysis of Longidorus orientalis Loof, 1983 (Nematoda: Longidoridae) from Spain and Iran
Authors: Palomares-Rius Juan E. , Landa Blanca B. , Tanha Maafi Zahra , Hunt David J. , Castillo Pablo
Published: July 2010

During recent nematode surveys in a muddy soil around undetermined graminaceous plants in El Rocío, Huelva Province, in southern Spain, and from the rhizosphere of date palm associated with graminaceous vegetation from Abadan, in Khuzestan Province, south-west Iran, populations of Longidorus orientalis were identified. Morphological and morphometrical studies on these populations fit the original description and represent the first report from Spain and Europe. Molecular characterisation of L. orientalis from Spain and Iran, using D2-D3 expansion regions of 28S rRNA, 18S rRNA and ITS-rRNA, is provided. Sequences of the D2-D3 expansion regions and partial 18S genes were analysed using maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference to reconstruct phylogenetic relationships within L. orientalis and other Longidorus species. The results revealed a closer phylogenetic relationship with L. goodeyi for the D2-D3 expansion region and with L. vineacola for the partial 18S region.
Molecular and morphological characterisation of Sphaeronema alni Turkina & Chizhov, 1986 (Nematoda: Sphaeronematidae) from Spain compared with a topotype population from Russia
Authors: Palomares-Rius Juan , Vovlas Nicola , Subbotin Sergei A. , Troccoli Alberto , Cantalapiedra-Navarrete Carolina , Liébanas Gracia , Chizhov Vladimir N. , Landa Blanca B. , Castillo Pablo
Published: July 2010

The occurrence of a male-less population of Sphaeronema alni parasitising chestnut (Castanea sativa) roots and inducing a stelar syncytium is reported for the first time in Pola de Somiedo (Oviedo province), Spain. Morphometric and molecular characters of the Spanish population matched those of a topotype population from Russia. SEM observations showed swollen females having the first lip annulus wider than the second and appearing as a cap-like, circumoral elevation. The second-stage juveniles, having a single band in the lateral fields, were characterised by a non-annulated dome-shaped lip region derived from the fusion of the oral disc with all the lip sectors and lip annuli, and showing slit-like amphidial apertures and an oval prestoma. The sequences of the D2-D3 expansion segments of 28S rRNA, partial 18S rRNA and ITS rRNA gene for the Spanish and topotype populations of S. alni were congruent and matched those deposited in GenBank for another population from Germany, thereby confirming their conspecificity. A PCR-RFLP profile of D2-D3 of 28S rRNA for identification of this species was also provided. The phylogenetic relationships between S. alni populations and representatives of the suborder Criconematina, as inferred from analysis of partial 18S rRNA and D2-D3 of 28S gene sequences obtained in this and previous studies, indicated that S. alni formed a basal clade on the majority consensus Bayesian phylogenetic trees, standing together with Meloidoderita sp. or alone. These findings provide additional evidence of the need to clarify the position of Sphaeronema within Criconematina and its relationships with representatives of Tylenchulinae.
Usefulness of morphological data for the study of nematode biodiversity
Authors: Luc Michel , Doucet Marcelo E. , Fortuner Renaud , Castillo Pablo , Decraemer Wilfrieda , Lax Paola
Published: July 2010

Public interest in biodiversity has never been so high, but the necessary inventory of existing species is hindered by the scarcity of taxonomists able to characterise and describe new species (α-taxonomy). This situation is particularly worrisome in nematology where only a small fraction of the estimated 105 to 108 existing species has been described and where experienced taxonomists are fast disappearing while the few that are still active find it increasingly difficult to publish morphological descriptions and to get financial support for biodiversity studies. The present disregard for α-taxonomy is said to originate from the excessive reliance by funding agencies and academic authorities on the Impact Factors attributed to scientific journals by ISI (Institute for Scientific Information). Molecular studies gave back some support and prestige to taxonomy, but that approach suffers from some limitations and it cannot be used alone for reaching taxonomic conclusions. In addition, any described DNA sequence should always be linked to a named species whose morphology has been correctly described by a trained taxonomist. The authors call for a renewed interest in α-taxonomy. Electronic publication according to the Code of Zoological Nomenclature would be one solution, but journals and authors seem reluctant to accept it. A variant would be to publish on paper only the diagnosis of the new species. The complete descriptions could be deposited in an Internet database but the setting-up of such a database would be a costly enterprise that would require several years of work by a team composed of morphological and molecular taxonomists and computer scientists.
Industrial Symbiosis: Old Wine in Recycled Bottles? Some Perspective from the History of Economic and Geographical Thought
Authors: Desrochers Pierre , Leppälä Samuli
Published: July 2010

‘‘Industrial symbiosis’’ (IS) is a central concept in the industrial ecology literature, which describes geographically proximate interfirm relationships involving the exchange of residual materials, water, and energy. Despite its obvious relevance to regional science, economic geography, and urban economics, the issue is only beginning to be addressed in these subdisciplines. This situation is paradoxical as both recovery linkages and the very concept of IS were discussed in some depth by numerous economists and geographers several decades ago. The goals of this article are to document this intellectual history, in the process gaining a better understanding of the phenomenon while shedding additional light on current controversies. In doing so, the authors further hope to restimulate economists, geographers, and regional scientists’ interest in the topic and to illustrate the long-standing importance of geographical co-location in facilitating the ‘‘internalization of externalities’’ of industrial operations.
Risk factors for failure of continuous veno-venous hemodialysis in the treatment of acute renal failure following cardiac surgery
Authors: Qiang Ji  , YunQing Mei  , XiSheng Wang  , Jing Feng  , JianZhi Cai  , YiFeng Sun  , Wusha Dewei
Published: July 2010

Objective: To evaluate the risk factors for failure of continuous veno-venous hemodialysis (CVVHD) in the treatment of acute renal failure (ARF) after cardiac surgery.

Methods: Adult patients without any prior pre-operative history of chronic renal failure who underwent CVVHD after cardiac surgery in our medical center from January 2005 to December 2008 were divided into a success or a failure group. All selected patients’ pre-, intra-, and post-operative data were retrospectively analyzed. ARF was described as post-operative urinary output of less than 0.5ml/kg/h and/or a 50% increase in baseline BUN and serum creatinine levels.

Results: Fifty-two adult patients (accounting for 3.04%) who underwent CVVHD after cardiac surgery were entered into this study. Thirty-six patients survived, with a mortality rate of 30.8%. Pre-operative mean left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in the success group was higher than that in the failure group (46±9% versus 40±7%, p=0.0220). Mean duration of oliguria until dialysis in the failure group was significantly longer than that in the success group (22.1±6.9h versus 11.6±2.5h, p<0.0001). Through univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression, independent risk factors for failure of CVVHD in the treatment of post-operative ARF included pre-operative LVEF (OR=0.635, 95% CI 0.358-0.852) and duration of oliguria until dialysis (OR=2.442, 95% CI 1.563-5.768).

Conclusions: Pre-operative impaired left ventricular function is an important risk factor for failure of CVVHD in the treatment of ARF after cardiac surgery. The sooner CVVHD is instituted the better prognosis may be.
Review: The understanding of spirituality and the potential role of spiritual care in end-of-life and palliative care: a meta-study of qualitative research
Authors: Edwards A. , Pang N. , Shiu V. , Chan C.
Published: July 2010

Spirituality and spiritual care are gaining increasing attention but their potential contribution to palliative care remains unclear. The aim of this study was to synthesize qualitative literature on spirituality and spiritual care at the end of life using a systematic (‘meta-study’) review.

Eleven patient articles and eight with healthcare providers were included, incorporating data from 178 patients and 116 healthcare providers, mainly from elderly White and Judaeo-Christian origin patients with cancer. Spirituality principally focused on relationships, rather than just meaning making, and was given as a relationship. Spirituality was a broader term that may or may not encompass religion. A ‘spirit to spirit’ framework for spiritual care-giving respects individual personhood. This was achieved in the way physical care was given, by focusing on presence, journeying together, listening, connecting, creating openings, and engaging in reciprocal sharing. Affirmative relationships supported patients, enabling them to respond to their spiritual needs. The engagement of family caregivers in spiritual care appears underutilized. Relationships formed an integral part of spirituality as they were a spiritual need, caused spiritual distress when broken and were the way spiritual care was given. Barriers to spiritual care include lack of time, personal, cultural or institutional factors, and professional educational needs. By addressing these, we may make an important contribution to the improvement of patient care towards the end of life.
Pressure ulcers in cancer palliative care patients
Authors: Hendrichova I. , Castelli M. , Mastroianni C. , Mirabella F. , Surdo L. , De Marinis MG , Heath T. , Casale G.
Published: July 2010

Terminally ill cancer patients are considered at high risk for pressure ulcers because of their clinical condition. However, in Italy, data about pressure ulcers and their prevalence are insufficient. This paper reports a study on pressure ulcers incidence and prevalence in a population of oncology patients cared for in an Italian palliative care service. A retrospective analysis of 414 clinical records of patients admitted over 6 months showed a prevalence of pressure ulcers of 22.9% and an incidence of 6.7%. Karnofsky Performance Scale Index scores, age and length of the stay were significantly related to the pressure sore development. These results support the need to focus attention on pressure ulcers prevention and treatment in terminally ill cancer patients, and to further define specific guidelines aimed at warranting patients’ comfort and quality of life.