bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in amino acids and polyamines in shoots and buds of Douglas-fir trees induced to flower by nitrogen and gibberellin treatments
Authors: Daoudi E.H. , Doumas P. , Bonnet-Masimbert M.
Published: January 2008

To characterize as early as possible the status of flowering differentiation in Douglas-fir (Pseudotsugamenziesii (Mirb.) Franco), the variation of amino acids and polyamines was studied in the shoots during the period covering flowering initiation (between 4 and 10 weeks after bud burst). These compounds were also quantified in sexual and vegetative buds. The qualitative and quantitative effects of treatments susceptible to stimulate flowering (application of gibberellins (GA) and (or) calcium nitrate (N)) were observed in the shoots. Only N and N + GA treated trees flowered, the flowering being especially abundant for trees treated by N + GA. Arginine and proline were generally more abundant in sexual buds than in vegetative ones and in the shoots of flowering plants than in the control shoots. Sexual buds were characterized by a ratio of putrescine/(spermidine + spermine) about two times lower than in vegetative buds, mainly owing to a lower level in putrescine. The accumulation of polyamines in the shoots accompanied bud sexualization, which suggests that polyamines may constitute potential markers, probably rather early ones (4–6 weeks after bud burst), of floral initiation in Douglas-fir. This possibility is discussed.
The state-space approach in growth modelling
Authors: García Oscar
Published: January 2008

Systems theory can provide a useful conceptual framework for the development of forest growth models. Modelling approaches are examined and compared, based on the state-space description of dynamic systems. This viewpoint is used also to discuss the principles behind height-based site indices and possible extensions, and problems of statistical parameter estimation. Four main kinds of estimation methods for dynamic systems can be distinguished. A multidimensional generalization of the Richards model illustrates many of the ideas.
A fuzzy surface cartographic representation for forestry based on Voronoi diagram area stealing
Authors: Lowell Kim
Published: January 2008

A fuzzy surface map representation for a forested area in Quebec was developed and evaluated relative to ground truth for two forest parameters (basal area and species composition). The fuzzy surface representation was found to perform slightly better than a conventional thematic map relative to both parameters. The fuzzy surfaces were also better at estimating species composition than basal area. It is suggested that because the fuzzy surface representation has the potential to show local variations, and to show boundaries between forest types as transition zones, it is a more realistic and useful representation of "the real world" in forestry than are conventional thematic maps. With refinement, the fuzzy surface representation developed has the potential to decrease the amount of simplification required in the map construction process and store a more realistic version of a forest in a geographic information system, thereby allowing practitioners to be closer to analyzing real-world conditions than is presently possible.
A mechanism for tracking the value of standing timber in an imperfect market
Authors: Nautiyal Jagdish C. , Kant Shashi , Williams Jeremy S.
Published: January 2008

In the absence of competitive markets, the value of standing timber can be estimated using the residual value approach. This approach was used in northern Ontario to estimate the value of stumpage used to produce spruce, pine, and fir lumber and pulp. Data were collected from 5000 stands harvested between 1986 and 1991, and residual timber values were calculated for each stand for appropriate products. These calculated residual values were regressed on supply-site variables such as distance to mill, slope, and piece size as well as demand-side trend and business cycle variables. On the basis of price and cost data for the period 1970–1993, the pulp and lumber models were extended and used to forecast the residual timber values for 1994.
NONLINEAR TRANSMISSION OF PHOTOSENSITIVE CHOLESTERIC LIQUID CRYSTALS DUE TO SPECTRAL BANDWIDTH AUTO-TUNING OR RESTORATION
Authors: SERAK SVETLANA V. , TABIRYAN NELSON V. , BUNNING TIMOTHY J.
Published: January 2008

Cholesteric liquid crystals (CLCs) which possess a periodicity in the visible portion of the spectra, exhibit selective reflection of circularly polarized light. The ability to modulate this color through a variety of means has been explored, including work which incorporated azobenzene LCs. Two types of systems have recently been explored utilizing wavelength-specific cis-trans isomerization processes, which enable unprecedented photosensitivity. The first system exhibits large blue or red-shifted changes in reflection wavelength upon visible irradiation. The second system exploits the metastable, long-lived photoinduced isotropic state, whose return to the reflective Grandjean texture can be induced by wavelength-specific radiation. We demonstrate nonlinear transmission from both types of systems, starting with submicrowatt power levels and spanning over four orders of magnitude dynamic range. The power dependence and temporal evolution of this effect (10–100 ms) is documented here for red or green laser wavelengths. The effect for the former case is due to bandgap auto-tuning, when the laser beam is tuning the CLC Bragg reflection band to its own wavelength. For the latter case, autonomous, optical feedback due to bandgap restoration is the cause of the nonlinear transmission properties.
RapidIO for radar processing in advanced space systems
Authors: Bueno David , Conger Chris , George Alan D. , Troxel Ian , Leko Adam
Published: January 2008

Space-based radar is a suite of applications that presents many unique system design challenges. In this paper, we investigate use of RapidIO, a new high-performance embedded systems interconnect, in addressing issues associated with the high network bandwidth requirements of real-time ground moving target indicator (GMTI), and synthetic aperture Radar (SAR) applications in satellite systems. Using validated simulation, we study several critical issues related to the RapidIO network and algorithms under study. The results show that RapidIO is a promising platform for space-based radar using emerging technology, providing network bandwidth to enable parallel computation previously unattainable in an embedded satellite system.
Energy-optimizing source code transformations for operating system-driven embedded software
Authors: Fei Yunsi , Ravi Srivaths , Raghunathan Anand , Jha Niraj K.
Published: January 2008

This paper proposes four types of source code transformations for operating system (OS)-driven embedded software programs to reduce their energy consumption. Their key features include spanning of process boundaries and minimization of the energy consumed in the execution of OS services—opportunities which are beyond the reach of conventional compiler optimizations and source code transformations. We have applied the proposed transformations to several multiprocess benchmark programs in the context of an embedded Linux OS running on an Intel StrongARM processor. They achieve up to 37.9% (23.8%, on average) energy reduction compared to highly compiler-optimized implementations.
Ambiguous requests
Authors: Spärck-Jones Karen , Robertson Stephen E. , Sanderson Mark
Published: January 2008

Retrieval system experimentation has assumed that user requests represent a single information need. The problem is identifying and meeting this need. Search engine experience demonstrates that this assumption is far from holding in the real world. Responding appropriately to this fact raises new issues for research on retrieval system theory, design, and evaluation.
The RIAO 2007 conference
Authors: Popescu Adrian
Published: January 2008

This review summarizes the main topics covered by the presentations given at the RIAO 2007 Conference. The theme of this year's conference, "Large-scale Semantic Access to Content (Text, Image, Video and Sound)", encompasses two current, and recurring, challenges in Information Retrieval: inclusion of semantics in retrieval and adaptation to different types of media. The use of the term "large-scale" underlines the need for scalable methods in real-world applications. RIAO 2007, hosting both innovative applications and research papers, presented a panorama of current trends in semantics based information retrieval.
The effect of higher moments of job size distribution on the performance of an
M/G/s
queueing system
Authors: Gupta Varun , Dai Jim , Harchol-Balter Mor , Zwart Bert
Published: January 2008

The
M/G/s
queueing system is the oldest and most classical example of multiserver systems. Such multiserver systems are commonplace in a wide range of applications, ranging from call centers to manufacturing systems to computer systems, because they are cost-effective and their serving capacity can be easily scaled up or down.
The time-correlated update problem
Authors: Reich Joshua , Misra Vishal , Rubenstein Dan
Published: January 2008

Recent advances in the fields of sensor networks and mobile robotics have provided the means to place monitoring/sensing equipment in an increasingly wide variety of environments - a significant proportion of which can reasonably be expected to lack traditional network connectivity characteristics [5] [8]. Challenged networks, operating under significant sets of constraints in which disconnected paths and long delays are normal events, have come to be known as Delay/Disruption Tolerant Networks (DTN) [2]. Some examples of environments in which DTN techniques may be required include remote or vast domains such as underground, underwater, outer-space, Arctic, and mountainous environments.
Compiler support for the Fortran 2003 standard
Authors: Chivers Ian D , Sleightholme Jane
Published: January 2008

This is a standing article in Fortran Forum. The first version appeared in Fortran Forum Volume 26, Number 1, April 2007. The basis for the entries in the list of features was a report by John Reid The original report can be found at: ftp://ftp.nag.co.uk/sc22wg5/N1551-N1600/N1579.pdf

An updated version of this report was included in Fortran Forum. An electronic version can be found at: ftp://ftp.nag.co.uk/sc22wg5/N1601-N1650/N1648.pdf

If you are a compiler vendor and would like to be included in future versions of this table please email one of us with details and they will be added to the table and published in Fortran Forum.
Review of "Pro Drupal Development, by John VanDyk and Matt Westgate," Apress 2007, $44.99, ISBN: 1590597559
Authors: Lecarme O.
Published: January 2008

Review of "Pro Drupal Development, by John VanDyk and Matt Westgate," Apress 2007, $44.99, ISBN: 1590597559
Three short cases for use in online introduction to computer information systems courses
Authors: Pendergast Mark O.
Published: January 2008

Online courses are now commonplace at many universities, replacing correspondence (postal) based distance education methods. An important and widely used component of online courses are online forums. Forums encourage interaction between students (who may never meet face-to-face) and are a vital part of the virtual classroom experience. Literature suggests that distance learners require a great deal of interaction to overcome the feeling of isolation; the development of a virtual world (classroom) encourages students to participate in the learning process by exploring and playing with course materials; and promotes interactions between students and teachers that may not occur in a traditional classroom. In order to conduct a successful online forum it is necessary to have a collection of provocative discussion topics and a sound technique to implement them. This paper presents three short cases; Electronic Voting, the Digital Divide, and Internet Ethics, that have successfully been used in online courses along with pedagogy and implementation notes.
Interleukin-11 antagonizes Fas ligand-mediated apoptosis in IEC-18 intestinal epithelial crypt cells: role of MEK and Akt-dependent signaling
Authors: Naugler Kaitlin M. , Baer Kathy A. , Ropeleski Mark J.
Published: January 2008

Interleukin-11 (IL-11) displays epithelial cytoprotective effects during intestinal injury. Antiapoptotic effects of IL-11 have been described, yet mechanisms remain unclear. Fas/CD95 death receptor signaling is upregulated in ulcerative colitis, leading to mucosal breakdown. We hypothesized that IL-11 inhibits Fas ligand (FasL)-mediated apoptosis in intestinal epithelia. Cell death was monitored in IEC-18 cells by microscopy, caspase and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase cleavage, mitochondrial release of cytochrome c, and abundance of cytoplasmic oligonucleosomal DNA. RT-PCR was used to monitor Fas, cIAP1, cIAP2, XIAP, cFLIP, survivin, and Bcl-2 family members. Fas membrane expression was detected by immunoblot. Inhibitors of JAK2, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-kinase), Akt 1, MEK1 and MEK2, and p38 MAPK were used to delineate IL-11's antiapoptotic mechanisms. IL-11 did not alter Fas expression. Pretreatment with IL-11 for 24 h before FasL reduced cytoplasmic oligonucleosomal DNA by 63.2%. IL-11 also attenuated caspase-3, caspase-9, and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase cleavage without affecting expression of activated caspase-8 p20 or cytochrome c release. IL-11 did not affect mRNA expression of the candidate antiapoptotic genes. The MEK1 and MEK2 inhibitors U-0126 and PD-98059 significantly attenuated the protection of IL-11 against caspase-3 and caspase-9 cleavage and cytoplasmic oligonucleosomal DNA accumulation. Although Akt inhibition reversed IL-11-mediated effects on caspase cleavage, it did not reverse the protective effects of IL-11 by DNA ELISA. We conclude that IL-11-dependent MEK1 and MEK2 signaling inhibits FasL-induced apoptosis. The lack of reversal of the IL-11 effect on DNA cleavage by Akt inhibition, despite antagonism of caspase cleavage, suggests that IL-11 inhibits caspase-independent cell death signaling by FasL in a MEK-dependent manner.
Role of M-CSF-dependent macrophages in colitis is driven by the nature of the inflammatory stimulus
Authors: Ghia Jean-Eric , Galeazzi Francesca , Ford David C. , Hogaboam Cory M. , Vallance Bruce A. , Collins Stephen
Published: January 2008

Although macrophages are considered a critical factor in determining the severity of acute inflammatory responses in the gut, recent evidence has indicated that macrophages may also play a counterinflammatory role. In this study, we examined the role of a macrophage subset in two models of colitis. Macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF)-deficient osteopetrotic mice (op/op) and M-CSF-expressing heterozygote (+/?) mice were studied following the induction of colitis by either dinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (DNBS) or dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). DNBS induced a severe colitis in M-CSF-deficient op/op mice compared with +/? mice. This was associated with increased mortality and more severe macroscopic and microscopic injury. Colonic tissue myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity as well as concentrations of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 were higher and IL-10 lower in op/op mice with DNBS colitis. The severity of inflammation and mortality was attenuated in op/op mice that had received human recombinant M-CSF prior to the induction of colitis. In contrast, op/op mice appeared less vulnerable to colitis induced by DSS. Macroscopic damage, microscopic injury, MPO activity, and tissue concentrations of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 were all lower in op/op mice compared with +/? mice with DSS colitis, and no changes were seen in IL-10. Macrophage inflammatory protein-1α concentrations were increased in op/op but not +/? mice following colitis induced by DNBS but not DSS. These results indicate that M-CSF-dependent macrophages may play either a pro- or counterinflammatory role in acute experimental colitis, depending on the stimulus used to induce colitis.
Modulation of late sodium current by Ca2+, calmodulin, and CaMKII in normal and failing dog cardiomyocytes: similarities and differences
Authors: Maltsev Victor A. , Reznikov Vitaliy , Undrovinas Nidas A. , Sabbah Hani N. , Undrovinas Albertas
Published: January 2008

Augmented and slowed late Na+ current ( INaL) is implicated in action potential duration variability, early afterdepolarizations, and abnormal Ca2+ handling in human and canine failing myocardium. Our objective was to study INaL modulation by cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in normal and failing ventricular myocytes. Chronic heart failure was produced in 10 dogs by multiple sequential coronary artery microembolizations; 6 normal dogs served as a control. INaL fine structure was measured by whole cell patch clamp in ventricular myocytes and approximated by a sum of fast and slow exponentials produced by burst and late scattered modes of Na+ channel gating, respectively. INaL greatly enhanced as [Ca2+]i increased from “Ca2+ free” to 1 μM: its maximum density increased, decay of both exponentials slowed, and the steady-state inactivation (SSI) curve shifted toward more positive potentials. Testing the inhibition of CaMKII and CaM revealed similarities and differences of INaL modulation in failing vs. normal myocytes. Similarities include the following: 1) CaMKII slows INaL decay and decreases the amplitude of fast exponentials, and 2) Ca2+ shifts SSI rightward. Differences include the following: 1) slowing of INaL by CaMKII is greater, 2) CaM shifts SSI leftward, and 3) Ca2+ increases the amplitude of slow exponentials. We conclude that Ca2+/CaM/CaMKII signaling increases INaL and Na+ influx in both normal and failing myocytes by slowing inactivation kinetics and shifting SSI. This Na+ influx provides a novel Ca2+ positive feedback mechanism (via Na+/Ca2+ exchanger), enhancing contractions at higher beating rates but worsening cardiomyocyte contractile and electrical performance in conditions of poor Ca2+ handling in heart failure.
Lipid mediators of autophagy in stress-induced premature senescence of endothelial cells
Authors: Patschan Susann , Chen Jun , Polotskaia Alla , Mendelev Natalja , Cheng Jennifer , Patschan Daniel , Goligorsky Michael S.
Published: January 2008

Our group (Patschan S, Chen J, Gealekman O, Krupincza K, Wang M, Shu L, Shayman JA, Goligorsky MS; Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 294: F100–F109, 2008) previously observed an accumulation of gangliosides coincident with development of cell senescence and demonstrated lysosomal permeabilization in human umbilical vein endothelial cells exposed to glycated collagen I (GC). Therefore, we investigated whether the lysosome-dependent, caspase-independent or type 2-programmed cell death (autophagy) is involved in development of premature senescence of endothelial cells. The cleaved microtubule-associated protein 1 light-chain 3 (LC3), a marker of autophagosome formation, was overexpressed within 24 h of GC treatment; however, by 4–5 days, it was nearly undetectable. Early induction of autophagosomes was associated with their fusion with lysosomes, a phenomenon that later became subverted. Autophagic cell death can be triggered by the products of damaged plasma membrane, sphingolipids, and ceramide. We observed a clustering of membrane rafts shortly after exposure to GC; later, after 24 h, we observed an internalization, accompanied by an increased acid sphingomyelinase activity and accumulation of ceramide. Pharmacological inhibition of autophagy prevented development of premature senescence but did lead to the enhanced rate of apoptosis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells exposed to GC. Pharmacological induction of autophagy resulted in reciprocal changes. These observations appear to represent a mechanistic molecular cascade whereby advanced glycation end products like GC induce sphingomyelinase activity, accumulation of ceramide, clustering, and later internalization of lipid rafts.
Endothelial nitric oxide synthase decreases β-adrenergic responsiveness via inhibition of the L-type Ca2+current
Authors: Wang Honglan , Kohr Mark J. , Wheeler Debra G. , Ziolo Mark T.
Published: January 2008

Signaling via endothelial nitric oxide synthase (NOS3) limits the heart's response to β-adrenergic (β-AR) stimulation, which may be protective against arrhythmias. However, mechanistic data are limited. Therefore, we performed simultaneous measurements of action potential (AP, using patch clamp), Ca2+transients (fluo 4), and myocyte shortening (edge detection). L-type Ca2+current ( ICa) was directly measured by the whole cell ruptured patch-clamp technique. Myocytes were isolated from wild-type (WT) and NOS3 knockout (NOS3−/−) mice. NOS3−/−myocytes exhibited a larger incidence of β-AR (isoproterenol, 1 μM)-induced early afterdepolarizations (EADs) and spontaneous activity (defined as aftercontractions). We also examined ICa, a major trigger for EADs. NOS3−/−myocytes had a significantly larger β-AR-stimulated increase in ICacompared with WT myocytes. In addition, NOS3−/−myocytes had a larger response to β-AR stimulation compared with WT myocytes in Ca2+transient amplitude, shortening amplitude, and AP duration (APD). We observed similar effects with specific NOS3 inhibition [l- N5-(1-iminoethyl)-ornithine (l-NIO), 10 μM] in WT myocytes as with NOS3 knockout. Specifically, l-NIO further increased isoproterenol-stimulated EADs and aftercontractions. l-NIO also further increased the isoproterenol-stimulated ICa, Ca2+transient amplitude, shortening amplitude, and APD (all P < 0.05 vs isoproterenol alone). l-NIO had no effect in NOS3−/−myocytes. These results indicate that NOS3 signaling inhibits the β-AR response by reducing ICaand protects against arrhythmias. This mechanism may play an important role in heart failure, where arrhythmias are increased and NOS3 expression is decreased.
Evidence that cardioprotection by postconditioning involves preservation of myocardial opioid content and selective opioid receptor activation
Authors: Zatta Amanda J. , Kin Hajime , Yoshishige Darice , Jiang Rong , Wang Ningping , Reeves James G. , Mykytenko James , Guyton Robert A. , Zhao Zhi-Qing , Caffrey James L. , Vinten-Johansen Jakob
Published: January 2008

Opioids introduced at reperfusion (R) following ischemia (I) reduce infarct size much like postconditioning, suggesting the hypothesis that postconditioning increases cardiac opioids and activates local opioid receptors. Anesthetized male rats subjected to 30 min regional I and 3 h R were postconditioned with three cycles of 10 s R and 10 s reocclusion at onset of R. Naloxone (NL), its peripherally restricted analog naloxone methiodide, δ-opioid receptor (DOR) antagonist naltrindole (NTI), κ-opioid receptor antagonist norbinaltorphimine (NorBNI), and μ-opioid receptor (MOR) antagonist H-D-Phe-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Arg-Thr-Pen-Thr-NH2 (CTAP) were administered intravenously 5 min before R. The area at risk (AAR) was comparable among groups, and postconditioning reduced infarct size from 57 ± 2 to 42 ± 2% ( P < 0.05). None of the antagonists alone altered infarct size. All antagonists abrogated postconditioning protection at higher doses. However, blockade of infarct sparing by postconditioning was lost, since tested doses of NL, NTI, NorBNI, and CTAP were lowered. The efficacy of NorBNI declined first at 3.4 μmol/kg, followed sequentially by NTI (1.1), NL (0.37), and CTAP (0.09), suggesting likely MOR and perhaps DOR participation. Representative small, intermediate, and large enkephalins in the AAR were quantified (fmol/mg protein; mean ± SE). I/R reduced proenkephalin (58 ± 9 vs. 33 ± 4; P < 0.05) and sum total of measured enkephalins, including proenkephalin, peptide B, methionine-enkephalin, and methionine-enkephalin-arginine-phenylalanine (139 ± 17 vs. 104 ± 7; P < 0.05) compared with shams. Postconditioning increased total enkephalins (89 ± 8 vs. 135 ± 5; P < 0.05) largely by increasing proenkephalin (33 ± 4 vs. 96 ± 7; P < 0.05). Thus the infarct-sparing effect of postconditioning appeared to involve endogenously activated MORs and possibly DORs, and preservation of enkephalin precursor synthesis in the AAR.
Acute lung injury and cell death: how many ways can cells die?
Authors: Tang Peter S. , Mura Marco , Seth Rashmi , Liu Mingyao
Published: January 2008

Apoptosis has been considered as an underlying mechanism in acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome and multiorgan dysfunction syndrome. Recently, several alternative pathways for cell death (such as caspase-independent cell death, oncosis, and autophagy) have been discovered. Evidence of these pathways in the pathogenesis of acute lung injury has also come into light. In this article, we briefly introduce cell death pathways and then focus on studies related to lung injury. The different types of cell death that occur and the underlying mechanisms utilized depend on both experimental and clinical conditions. Lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury is associated with apoptosis via Fas/Fas ligand mechanisms. Hyperoxia and ischemia-reperfusion injury generate reactive oxidative species, which induce complex cell death patterns composed of apoptosis, oncosis, and necrosis. Prolonged overexpression of inflammatory mediators results in increased production and activation of proteases, especially cathepsins. Activation and resistance to death of neutrophils also plays an important role in promoting parenchymal cell death. Knowledge of the coexisting multiple cell death pathways and awareness of the pharmacological inhibitors targeting different proteases critical to cell death may lead to the development of novel therapies for acute lung injury.
Antifibrotic properties of caveolin-1 scaffolding domain in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Tourkina Elena , Richard Mathieu , Gööz Pal , Bonner Michael , Pannu Jaspreet , Harley Russell , Bernatchez Pascal N. , Sessa William C. , Silver Richard M. , Hoffman Stanley
Published: January 2008

Lung fibrosis involves the overexpression of ECM proteins, primarily collagen, by α-smooth muscle actin (ASMA)-positive cells. Caveolin-1 is a master regulator of collagen expression by cultured lung fibroblasts and of lung fibrosis in vivo. A peptide equivalent to the caveolin-1 scaffolding domain (CSD peptide) inhibits collagen and tenascin-C expression by normal lung fibroblasts (NLF) and fibroblasts from the fibrotic lungs of scleroderma patients (SLF). CSD peptide inhibits ASMA expression in SLF but not NLF. Similar inhibition of collagen, tenascin-C, and ASMA expression was also observed when caveolin-1 expression was upregulated using adenovirus. These observations suggest that the low caveolin-1 levels in SLF cause their overexpression of collagen, tenascin-C, and ASMA. In mechanistic studies, MEK, ERK, JNK, and Akt were hyperactivated in SLF, and CSD peptide inhibited their activation and altered their subcellular localization. These studies and experiments using kinase inhibitors suggest many differences between NLF and SLF in signaling cascades. To validate these data, we determined that the alterations in signaling molecule activation observed in SLF also occur in fibrotic lung tissue from scleroderma patients and in mice with bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis. Finally, we demonstrated that systemic administration of CSD peptide to bleomycin-treated mice blocks epithelial cell apoptosis, inflammatory cell infiltration, and changes in tissue morphology as well as signaling molecule activation and collagen, tenascin-C, and ASMA expression associated with lung fibrosis. CSD peptide may be a prototype for novel treatments for human lung fibrosis that act, in part, by inhibiting the expression of ASMA and ECM proteins.
Low-dose carbon monoxide treatment attenuates early pulmonary neutrophil recruitment after acid aspiration
Authors: Nemzek Jean A. , Fry Christopher , Abatan Omorodola
Published: January 2008

Exogenous carbon monoxide (CO) has anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective properties that show promise in the treatment of numerous pulmonary diseases. However, the effectiveness of CO in acute pulmonary injury associated with direct lung insult has not been shown conclusively. The purpose of this study was to determine if exogenous CO would modulate the pulmonary inflammation and lung injury that develops after acid aspiration. Groups of mice were given intratracheal (IT) injections of either saline or an acidic solution. After the IT injection, some of the mice in each group were allowed to spontaneously inhale CO (500 ppm). Mice exposed to CO for 6 h after IT acid had a significant decrease in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid neutrophil counts and in histological evidence of lung injury. These results could not be explained by changes in BAL fluid chemokine levels or altered CXCR2 expression. The reduced neutrophil recruitment was associated with a decrease in the percentage of peripheral blood neutrophils expressing CD11b protein. However, within 24 h, the BAL neutrophil counts increased and were not different from animals without CO exposure. In addition, indices of vascular integrity were not different between animals with acid aspiration regardless of CO exposure at the later time point. These results showed that CO can modulate the early development of acute lung inflammation in this model of acid aspiration. Although these effects were eventually overwhelmed, the results suggest that CO may have efficacy during the initial treatment of aspiration lung injury.
Simvastatin attenuates release of neutrophilic and remodeling factors from primary bronchial epithelial cells derived from stable lung transplant recipients
Authors: Murphy Desmond M. , Forrest Ian A. , Corris Paul A. , Johnson Gail E. , Small Therese , Jones Debbie , Fisher Andrew J. , Egan Jim J. , Cawston Timothy E. , Ward Chris , Lordan James L.
Published: January 2008

Obliterative bronchiolitis (OB), the major cause of chronic lung allograft dysfunction, is characterized by airway neutrophilia, inflammation, and remodeling, with progressive fibroproliferation and obliteration of small airways that ultimately leads to patient death. Statins have potential anti-inflammatory effects and have been demonstrated to confer a survival advantage in lung transplant patients. We postulated that the beneficial effects of simvastatin in lung transplantation are in part due to inhibition of the epithelial production of key mediators of neutrophil chemotaxis, inflammation, and airway remodeling. Our objective was to assess the effect of simvastatin on a unique population of primary bronchial epithelial cells (PBECs) derived from stable lung allografts, with specific reference to airway neutrophilia and remodeling. PBEC cultures were stimulated with IL-17 or transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, with and without simvastatin. Supernatant levels of factors critical to driving airway neutrophilia and remodeling were measured. IL-17 upregulated IL-8, IL-6, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), and VEGF, whereas TGF-β increased IL-6, GM-CSF, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, and MMP-9. Simvastatin attenuated effects of both IL-17 and TGF-β. We have demonstrated the ability of simvastatin to attenuate release of airway neutrophilic and remodeling mediators and to inhibit their upregulation by TGF-β and IL-17. These data illustrate the potential of simvastatin to alleviate neutrophilic airway inflammation and remodeling in the transplanted lung and may have additional relevance to other neutrophilic airway conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Polyorchidism: Presentation of 2 Cases, Review of the Literature and a New Management Strategy
Authors: Khedis Mehdi , Nohra Joe , Dierickx Laurence , Walschaerts Marie , Soulié Michel , Thonneau Patrick F. , Plante Pierre , Huyghe Eric
Published: January 2008

Objectives: To present 2 cases with polyorchidism, to review the literature about polyorchidism, and to propose a rational therapeutic algorithm. Methods: In our institution, we encountered 2 patients with polyorchidism: The 1st patient had bilateral double testis with testicular torsion, and the 2nd patient presented with an indolent scrotal mass. We also performed a literature search (PubMed) for other reports of polyorchidism. Results: Polyorchidism is a rare congenital anomaly that is not well known by most urologists. So far, as illustrated by our 2 cases, the management of polyorchidism is rarely conservative, and usually the supernumerary testis is removed without any evidence supporting this attitude. Rare cases are complicated by torsion (case 1), cryptorchidism, or testicular neoplasm. In case of torsion, the conservative approach depends on the viability of the twisted testis. In case of cryptorchidism, notably in children or young adults, conservative management should be proposed, if technically feasible. In case of signs of malignancy, orchiectomy must be performed. Conclusions: Conservative treatment is advised in all uncomplicated cases. Complicated cases need a careful management, but several situations can be managed conservatively. Based on the literature, we propose a simple, rational therapeutic algorithm.
An Evolutionary Witness: the Frog Rana rugosa Underwent Change of Heterogametic Sex from XY Male to ZW Female
Authors: Miura I.
Published: January 2008

There are two basic types of heterogamety for genetic sex determination in animals and plants: male heterogamety (XX/XY) and female heterogamety (ZZ/ZW). Although apparently in opposition, the two distinct types may in fact be interchangeable. For example, in amphibians it has been shown that the heterogametic sex was originally female and may have become male at some branching point in their phylogenetic evolution. In particular, there is evidence that the male heterogametic sex determination of the frog Rana rugosa returned to its previous female state during speciation that occurred when the distribution range of the frog expanded across Japan. This change is quite recent in the phylogenetic time scale. This paper presents a review of the sex chromosomes and sex determination in the frog R. rugosa, an evolutionary witness proving the viability of changing heterogametic sex, and introduces recent findings and on-going studies in the frog. Change of the heterogametic sex will also be discussed, relating data from frogs (Rana) and other animals to the replacement of a master sex-determining gene in the course of speciation.
N-Acetyl-Beta-Hexosaminidase Activity in Asthma
Authors: Tomasiak Maria Magdalena , Tomasiak Marian , Zietkowski Ziemowit , Skiepko Roman , Bodzenta-Lukaszyk Anna
Published: January 2008

Background: N-acetyl-β-hexosaminidase (β-hex) is a lysosomal hydrolase, which is selectively secreted into the extracellular space by inflammatory cells. The aim of our study was to assess the activity of β-hex in the plasma of asthmatic patients, and to establish whether it correlates with asthma severity and airway inflammation. Methods: The study was conducted in a group of 46 asthmatic patients and 13 healthy volunteers. All study participants underwent analysis of exhaled nitric oxide and flow-volume spirometry. β-hex activity, peripheral blood eosinophils, total serum IgE and eosinophil cationic protein were analyzed in blood samples from all asthmatic patients and healthy volunteers. Results: β-hex activity was significantly higher in patients with severe or moderate asthma compared with healthy volunteers and was positively correlated with exhaled nitric oxide levels and serum eosinophil cationic protein in these groups of patients. There was no correlation between β-hex activity and forced expiratory volume in 1 s, blood eosinophil count or total serum IgE in these groups of asthmatics. Conclusions: Our results suggest that β-hex could take part in airway inflammation and remodeling in asthma. Our study is the first report in which the elevated activity of β-hex in subjects with asthma has been observed. However, more studies are needed to establish the precise role of this enzyme in asthma in humans.
Genetic variation within Saurodactylus and its phylogenetic relationships within the Gekkonoidea estimated from mitochondrial and nuclear DNA sequences
Authors: James Harris David , Rato Catarina
Published: January 2008

Phylogenetic relationships of the three morphological forms within the gecko genus Saurodactylus were estimated using mtDNA (12S rRNA and ND4) sequences. High between morphological forms variation (up to 25% with ND4), confirms that all three deserve specific status. Saurodactylus mauritanicus and Saurodactylus brosseti are strongly supported as sister taxa. Our results again highlight the extremely high mtDNA variability almost universally reported from within gecko species. The position of Saurodactylus within the Gekkonoidea was also investigated. Although considered as a member of the sphaerodactyl geckos, its taxonomic position is still highly uncertain. Evaluation of C-mos nuclear DNA sequences supports many of the recent taxonomic rearrangements within the Gekkonoidea. Using this marker, Saurodactylus is paraphyletic, with S. mauritanicus and S. brosseti sister taxa to Teratoscincus przewalskii rather than Saurodactylus fasciatus. This is supported by a further nuclear marker, RAG1, although for this gene region sampling is more limited. Based on this paraphyly, supported by two independent nuclear markers, we suggest it likely that Saurodactylus will need to be partitioned into two genera, pending further investigations.
Evidence for post-natal instability of head scalation in the meadow viper (Vipera ursinii) – patterns and taxonomic implications
Authors: Carretero Miguel Angel , Ajtíc Rastko , Tomović Ljiljana , Crnobrnja-Isailovíc Jelka
Published: January 2008

In Squamates, head meristic characters are commonly used in analyses of intraspecific variability, systematics and phylogeny. Taxonomic significance of head scales is based on the assumption that discrete values of particular scales are set at birth and stable during individual ontogeny. In this paper, we analysed ontogenic changes of head scalation in a population of meadow viper (Vipera ursinii), based on multiple recaptures of marked individuals. Our results show that changes of cephalic scales occur both in immatures and in adults; the frequency of occurrence of change in the sample of re-photographed individuals was 52.2%. Oligomerisation was the most frequent change, found in 39.1% of re-photographed individuals. Changes in shape of cephalic plates as well as polymerisation were recorded in 30.4% of re-photographed individuals. Results of the log-linear analyses indicated no relation either between scale change and sex or between scale change and growth. Although we do not suggest that meristic characters of head scales are completely inadequate for taxonomic use, we point out the need for taking into account the ontogenic trajectories of these characters when analysing intra- and interpopulation variability, in systematics and phylogeny.
Effects of increased salinity on tadpoles of two anurans from a Caribbean coastal wetland in relation to their natural abundance
Authors: Rios-López Neftalí
Published: January 2008

Many amphibians depend on wetland ecosystems for reproduction and survival, and coastal wetlands are not the exception. Recent advances on climate change research predict a reduction in land cover of coastal wetlands due to sea-level rise in response to global warming. Although this scenario will contribute to further amphibian population declines worldwide the impacts of sea-level rise and its related salt water intrusion on anuran assemblages in coastal wetlands remain largely unknown. I documented patterns of abundance of the native Caribbean white-lipped frog (Leptodactylus albilabris) and the introduced marine toad (Bufo marinus) along an inland-to-coastal salinity gradient in Puerto Rico. In addition, I investigated the effects of increasing salinity on larval growth and survival to metamorphosis in L. albilabris and B. marinus in laboratory experiments. In the field, relative abundance of adults of L. albilabris decreased with increasing salinity, while B. marinus showed the opposite pattern. Laboratory experiments with L. albilabris and B. marinus revealed that percentage of larvae surviving to metamorphosis in both species was greatly reduced in 22-25% seawater (8 ppt), which is within salinity levels found in their natural distribution. In this salinity level, the native L. albilabris showed ∼100% metamorphosis failure while the introduced B. marinus showed ∼60% metamorphosis failure. The reduction in metamorphosis was due to high mortality in L. albilabris and was accompanied with morphological abnormalities in B. marinus. Tadpoles of only L. albilabris reared for four weeks showed significant weight loss at 8 ppt, but showed no difference in length. These results suggest that anuran tadpoles may be living near their physiological limit for salinity in the studied wetland. Conservation implications are profound, however, as salt water intrusion and urban encroaching inland may result in anuran population replacement, from native species to introduced species in this wetland.
Systematics of the Swiss asp vipers: some implications for the European Vipera aspis (Linnaeus, 1758) complex (Serpentes: Viperidae) – A tribute to Eugen Kramer
Authors: Monney Jean-Claude , Durand Thierry , Ursenbacher Sylvain , Luca Zuffi Marco Alberto , Golay Philippe , Conelli Alberto , Thiery Gilles
Published: January 2008

Following the opinion expressed by Kramer in 1971, it is commonly accepted that the V. aspis complex is composed of 5 subspecies: V. a. aspis (Linnaeus, 1758), V. a. atra Meisner, 1820, V. a. francisciredi Laurenti, 1768, V. a. hugyi Schinz, 1834 and V. a. zinnikeri Kramer, 1958. However, this point of view was recently challenged and a number of subspecies were elevated to species rank. We had the unique opportunity to study the sample employed by Kramer to revalidate the subspecies V. a. atra and V. a. francisciredi. Using Kramer's determinations, but another set of characters, we reanalysed his sample, by applying the same statistical methods (discriminant and canonical analyses), in order to determine whether observed differences among taxa were sufficiently distinctive to warrant recognition as subspecies. The preliminary results of our morphological study allow us to admit the validity of V. a. francisciredi Laurenti, 1768, but also to question the subspecific rank of V. a. atra Meisner, 1820. These conclusions agree perfectly with the results of our previous genetic study.
Plasma levels of estradiol during vitellogenesis and early gestation in oviparous and viviparous Lacerta (Zootoca) vivipara
Authors: Surget-Groba Yann , Deunff Jean , Garnier Danielle , Heulin Benoît
Published: January 2008

The evolution of viviparity in lizards and snakes is always associated with a reduction of the eggshell membrane. There is strong evidence indicating that estradiol is the primary factor involved in seasonal development of the uterine glands in preparation for eggshelling. However, the hypothesis that the thinner eggshells of viviparous species could be the consequence of lower pre-ovulatory levels of circulating estradiol has not been tested. In a previous histological study we showed that the pre-ovulatory growth of the uterine shell glands is significantly more pronounced in oviparous than in viviparous females of the lizard Lacerta (Zootoca) vivipara. During the current study we assayed plasma levels of estradiol before and during vitellogenesis and during early gestation. We did not find any significant difference of estradiol concentrations between oviparous and viviparous females. In both reproductive forms the plasma estradiol concentration was significantly higher during late vitellogenesis than during early gestation. Future research should address whether variation in the growth of the uterine shell glands could be predominantly mediated by modification affecting estrogen receptors of the uterus rather than by concentration of the circulating hormone.
A permanent signal related to male pairing success and survival in the lizard Psammodromus algirus
Authors: Veiga José , Salvador Alfredo
Published: January 2008

Many species of lizards have colour spots on the flanks that may function as ornaments. We investigate the between-years stability of the blue patch colour saturation and the relationships between colour saturation, mating success, and survival in males of the lizard Psammodromus algirus. Saturation values of the anterior blue patch of males were significantly repeatable across years. Survivors had more saturated patches than non-survivors among paired males but not among non-paired males. The positive relationship between blue patch saturation and survival suggests that this morphological trait acts as a reliable signal of male quality measured as adult survival.
Limb chondrogenesis in Graptemys nigrinoda (Emydidae), with comments on the primary axis and the digital arch in turtles
Authors: Ziermann Janine , Sánchez-Villagra Marcelo , Olsson Lennart
Published: January 2008

The early development of skeletal structures of manus and pes was studied using whole-mount, alcian-blue-stained embryos at different stages in an ontogenetic series of Graptemys nigrinoda. Sequences of chondrification events are similar to those reported for other turtle species, with respect to both the primary axis and the digital arch. There is no evidence of anterior condensations in the region distal to the radius and the tibia, supporting the hypothesis that the radiale and tibiale are absent in turtles, except for some potential atavistic occurrences. The anlagen for the fibulare and intermedium were identified, and in some but not all specimens two centralia elements are also present. These elements of the proximal and medial tarsal row fuse into a single cartilaginous structure, which later becomes the astragalocalcaneum. Inconsistencies in the literature about the details of the chondrification sequence of autopodial elements are in part related to real intraspecific and interspecific variation across turtles. The patterns of connectivity, often cited in studies of the limb chondrification sequence of tetrapods, are difficult if not impossible to objectively detect using standard alcian-blue-stained specimens.
Contributions to a review of the Dendrelaphis pictus complex (Serpentes: Colubridae) – 1. Description of a sympatric species
Authors: Vogel  , van Rooijen J.
Published: January 2008

A new species of the colubrid genus Dendrelaphis Boulenger, 1890 is described. Dendrelaphis haasi sp. nov. ranges from the Malaysian Peninsula to Sumatra, Java and Borneo. Within this range it also inhabits the islands of Pulau Tioman, Nias, Billiton and the Mentawei Archipelago. D. haasi is similar to Dendrelaphis pictus (Gmelin, 1789) with which it occurs sympatrically. However, univariate and multivariate analyses demonstrate that D. haasi differs from D. pictus in several aspects of its coloration and morphology. D. haasi differs from D. pictus in possessing a faint, instead of bright, ventrolateral line, a narrow, instead of broad, postocular stripe, broader vertebral scales, a lower number of temporal scales, a higher number of subcaudals, a smaller eye, a longer tail and a parietal scale that extends further down the side of the head. The discovery of D. haasi as well as the recent description of D. kopsteini Vogel and Van Rooijen, 2007, both fairly common species, demonstrate that the systematics of Dendrelaphis are still poorly explored and thus need further investigation. An updated key to the Dendrelaphis-species of the Sunda Region is provided.