bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and development strategy for multi‐media GIS to support environmental negotiation, administration, and monitoring at the regional level
Authors: MORENO‐SÁNCHEZ RAFAEL , MALCZEWSKI JACEK , BOJORQUEZ‐TAPIA LUIS A
Published: March 2007

Environmental protection agencies must administer and monitor compliance with environmental legislation and regulations, provide information to educate the public on the importance of environmental issues, and support the negotiation of environmental conflicts between socio‐economic sectors. To perform these activities at the regional level requires the assembling, management, analysis, and presentation of large amounts of geo‐referenced information from different sources, formats, and scales. Multi‐media Geographic Information Systems (MM‐GIS) offer an alternative to deliver this functionality to support the daily activities of environmental professionals. In the dynamic context of the work carried out by environmental agencies, data and conditions must be updated frequently. The proposed design and development strategy for creating MM‐GIS is based on the premises that these agencies have scarce personnel, computer, financial, and time resources, and that there is a shortage of experienced developers. It expands the multi‐media handling capabilities of GIS and is aimed at facilitating the involvement of professional users in the maintenance and development of a system. It is expected that this involvement will reduce the risk of a MM‐GIS becoming obsolete shortly after its completion. A case study and the resulting MM‐GIS for a region on the west coast of central Mexico is presented.
A causal analysis of error in viewsheds from USGS digital elevation models
Authors: RUIZ MARILYN O
Published: March 2007

Users of GIS are faced with the ongoing and difficult problem of estimating the validity of a GIS output given the uncertainty of the quality of digital mapped data. This research project examines the manner in which error from a digital elevation model (DEM) results in error in an estimate of a viewshed. The data set includes two DEMs for the same study area. A 10‐metre DEM serves as the control model to test a United States Geological Survey (USGS) DEM. The amount and spatial pattern of the error in the test DEM is determined by comparing it to the control DEM. A viewshed analysis is then performed at a set of 61 sites. After determining the relative accuracy of the viewsheds thus estimated, a causal model of viewshed error is developed, which links the sources of the DEM error with the error in the viewshed. The most important factor in DEM error is terrain roughness. The error in the viewsheds is a result of the error being propagated from the DEM, with landscape characteristics of the viewpoinr playing a role due to their effect on the error in the DEM. The conceptual path model developed sets the stage for a quancitative approach that will attempt to predict viewshed error from the landscape characteristics without direct knowledge of the error in the DEM.
Building spatial models within GIS through Geo‐Algebra
Authors: TAKEYAMA MASANAO
Published: March 2007

This paper describes Geo‐Algebra, a mathematical framework for supporting geo‐computational modelling in conjunction with GIS‐based spacial data manipulation capabilities. Geo‐Algebra overcomes the discrepancy between spacial modelling and GIS in the modes of representation as well as in their underlying concepts of space by using a common representational framework for (1) mathematical models expressing spatial relationships and (2) data models of georeferenced information. Geographic models of spatial structure and static as well as dynamic spatial interaction are formulated consistently within Gco‐Algebra through a limited set of generic operations on map layers which are used simultaneously for GIS dam manipulation and analysis. A significant advantage of Geo‐Algebra over other approaches to integration, such as high‐level computational languages, is the development of theoretical concepts of the most general kind which allows the derivation of general properties of these in a deductive manner. In particular, Geo‐Algebra formalizes and extends the mathematical notion of Map into the novel concepts of relational and metarelational Maps. These extensions lead to the novel concepts of space bridging the absolute and relative, as well as static and dynamic views of space. Such theoretical concepts are also implemented in a dynamic simulation tool called Geocellular.
Designing out vulnerability, building in respect: violence, safety and sex work policy
Authors: Sanders Teela , Campbell Rosie
Published: March 2007

One recent finding about the prostitution market is the differences in the extent and nature of violence experienced between women who work on the street and those who work from indoor sex work venues. This paper brings together extensive qualitative fieldwork from two cities in the UK to unpack the intricacies in relation to violence and safety for indoor workers. Firstly, we document the types of violence women experience in indoor venues noting how the vulnerabilities surrounding work‐based hazards are dependent on the environment in which sex is sold. Secondly, we highlight the protection strategies that indoor workers and management develop to maintain safety and order in the establishment. Thirdly, we use these empirical findings to suggest that violence should be a high priority on the policy agenda. Here we contend that the organizational and cultural conditions that seem to offer some protection from violence in indoor settings could be useful for informing the management of street sex work. Finally, drawing on the crime prevention literature, we argue that it is possible to go a considerable way to designing out vulnerability in sex work, but not only through physical and organizational change but building in respect for sex workers rights by developing policies that promote the employment/human rights and citizenship for sex workers. This argument is made in light of the Coordinated Prostitution Strategy.
Inhibition of concanavalin A‐induced acute T cell dependent hepatic damage in mice by hypothyroidism
Authors: Shirin Haim , Dotan Iris , Papa Moshe , Maaravi Yoram , Aeet Husein , Zaidel Lillian , Matas Zipora , Bruck Rafael , Moss Steven F , Halpern Zamir , Oren Ran
Published: March 2007

Abstract:Aims/Background: Concanavalin A (Con A) activates T lymphocytes and causes acute T‐cell‐mediated hepatic injury in mice. Decreased thyroid hormonal production is associated with a variety of immunological manifestations, including inactivation of macrophages with reduced TNF production and reduced soluble IL‐2 receptors in the serum. We have recently shown that hypothyroidism prevents the development of cirrhosis and also minimizes hepatic damage in rats with fulminant hepatic failure. In the present study we examined the effects of hypothyroidism on a mouse model of Con A induced T cell‐mediated acute hepatitis.Methods: Hypothyroidism was induced both medically (MMI, PTU) and surgically. Eight groups of 10 mice each were studied: euthyroid controls (2 groups: water, Con A) and hypothyroid (6 groups: MMI, PTU, Surgical, MMI‐Con A, PTU‐Con A, Surgical‐Con A).Results: Hepatic inflammation was significantly decreased in each of the Con A treated hypothyroid groups of mice. The serum transaminases, TNF‐α and IL‐6 levels were significantly elevated in the Con A treated group while near normal levels were found in the hypothyroid Con A treated groups (mean±SE AST: 1499±18 vs 78±10 IU/1,p<0.001; TNF: 2500±250 vs 135± 15 pg/ml.p<0.001, IL‐6: 12,200±300 vs 1260±140 pg/ml,p<0.001, respectively).Conclusions: Hypothyroidism, independent of the mode of induction, can effectively inhibit the development of acute T cell‐mediated liver damage in mice. These results suggest that some decrease in thyroid function might have a role in the prevention of immune mediated liver diseases.
3,4‐Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (ecstasy)‐induced hepatotoxicity: effect on cytosolic calcium signals in isolated hepatocytes
Authors: Beitia G. , Cobreros A. , Sainz L. , Cenarruzabeitia E.
Published: March 2007

Abstract:Aims/Background: Hepatocellular damage has been reported as a consequence of 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) intake. However, little is known about the cellular mechanisms involved. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effects of MDMA on cell viability as well as free calcium levels ([Ca2+]i) in short‐term cultured hepatocytes. Reduced glutathione (GSH), adenosine‐5′‐triphosphate (ATP) and lipid peroxidation were investigated to evaluate the toxic effect of MDMA,in vitro, using freshly isolated rat hepatocytes.Methods: In order to measure cytosolic free Ca2+concentrations ([Ca2+]i), rat hepatocytes were loaded with the Ca2+indicator fura‐2‐acetoxymethylester (fura‐2‐AM).Results: A sustained rise of ([Ca2+]i) after incubation with MDMA was the most noteworthy finding. In Ca2+‐free medium, MDMA caused a reduced increase of ([Ca2+]i). On the other hand, MDMA (0.1–5 mM) induced a concentration‐dependent and time exposure‐dependent GSH and ATP depletion. Although it did not reach statistical significance, GSH deficits were accompanied by a tendency to increase lipid peroxidation 3 h after MDMA incubation.Conclusions: The above data suggest that the marked rise of ([Ca2+]i) and subsequent ATP and GSH depletion can lead to a rapid decrease in cell viability.
Clearance of HCV RNA in a chronic hepatitis C virus‐infected patient during acute hepatitis B virus superinfection
Authors: Wietzke Perdita , Schott Peter , Braun Felix , Mihm Sabine , Ramadori Giuliano
Published: March 2007

Abstract:The routes of hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus transmission are quite similar and coexistence of both viruses in one patient is not a rare phenomenon. Until now, the natural course of liver diseases induced by coinfections has not been well documented and the mechanisms of interaction between the two viruses and the human host have not been fully clarified. We report the case of a patient suffering from chronic hepatitis due to hepatitis C virus who developed an acute hepatitis B virus superinfection. Serum hepatitis C virus ribonucleic acid became undetectable by reverse transcriptase/polymerase chain reaction at diagnosis of acute hepatitis B virus infection. At the same time, there was a striking increase in the serum concentrations of the antibodies against C22 and C33c hepatitis C virus antigens. Four months after clinical resolution of the acute hepatitis, hepatitis B surface antigen was undetectable in serum and three months later antibodies against hepatitis B surface antigen appeared. Two years after acute hepatitis B virus infection, the patient has had no relapse of markers for viral replication of hepatitis B virus. Transaminases are within the reference range and hepatitis C virus ribonucleic acid is undetectable in both serum and liver tissue. We hypothesize that acute hepatitis B virus infection stimulated a specific humoral response against hepatitis C virus as well as triggering non‐specific defense mechanisms which finally eliminated both viruses.
Immunolocalisation of PIVKA‐II in paraffin‐embedded specimens of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Tamano Masaya , Sugaya Hitoshi , Oguma Motoo , Murohisa Toshimitu , Tomita Yutaka , Matsumura Akira , Kojima Kazuo , Terano Akira
Published: March 2007

Abstract: Aims/Background: Although serum PIVKA‐II has been widely used as a tumor marker for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), little information is available concerning tissue PIVKA‐II, and detection of tissue PIVKA‐II in paraffin‐embedded tissue specimens of HCC is also considered difficult. Methods: Paraffin‐embedded HCC tissues obtained at autopsy from 22 patients were subjected to immunohistochemical staining using the antibody MU‐3 (Eisai Co., Ltd.) after microwave antigen retrieval. Results: PIVKA‐II was mainly detected in the cytoplasm of HCC cells. The intensity of tissue PIVKA‐II staining was not correlated with serum PIVKA‐II levels or with the histological differentiation of HCC. However PIVKA‐II staining tended to be more intense in tissue from patients with portal tumor thrombus, distant metastases, or a longer duration of HCC. Conclusion: This method of immunohistochemical staining is easy and simple to use and may be helpful for detecting tissue PIVKA‐II in paraffin‐embedded HCC specimens.
Ehanced expression of interleukin‐6 in chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Oyanagi Yoshinari , Takahashi Toru , Matsui Shigeru , Takahashi Sumio , Boku Saihiro , Takahashi Kou , Furukawa Koichi , Arai Futoshi , Asakura Hitoshi
Published: March 2007

Abstract: Aims/Background: There is a possibility that proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) are involved in the inflammatory process of chronic hepatitis C. This study was undertaken to investigate the possible role of IL‐6 in the pathophysiology of chronic hepatitis C. Methods: Serum IL‐6 levels in 63 patients with chronic hepatitis C and in 26 normal controls were measured. Light and electron immunostaining studies to localize IL‐6 protein as well as in situ hybridization to localize IL‐6 messenger RNA were performed on 10 liver biopsy specimens. Results: Serum IL‐6 levels were significantly (p<0.01) elevated in chronic hepatitis C compared to those in normal controls. Although no statistically significant correlation was found between serum IL‐6 levels and hepatobiliary enzyme levels, a significant correlation (p<0.01) was found between serum IL‐6 levels and category II of Knodell's histological activity index score. Non‐parenchymal cells in hepatic sinusoids and the cells infiltrating enlarged fibrous portal tracts were definitely positive for IL‐6 protein and mRNA by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization. In addition, immunoelectron microscopy revealed a weak and occasional positive reaction in the cytoplasm of hepatocytes. The majority of the positive cells in hepatic sinusoids showed CD68 immunoreactivity in consecutive sections indicating that these were Kupffer cells. Sinusoidal endothelial cells and hepatic stellate cells also exhibited a weak reaction. Conclusion: These results strongly suggest that Kupffer cells in liver parenchyma and macrophages infiltrating in portal tracts are the main producers of elevated IL‐6 in serum. Moreover, there is a possibility that IL‐6 produced by hepatocytes could also act as a regenerative stimulus to hepatocytes themselves in an autocrine fashion.
Diagnostic Procedures and Surgical Treatment of Craniodorsal Coxofemoral Luxation in Calves
Authors: STARKE ALEXANDER , HERZOG KATHRIN , SOHRT JAN , HAIST VERENA , HÖHLING ANDREA , BAUMGÄRTNER WOLFGANG , REHAGE JÜRGEN
Published: March 2007

Objective—To report use of ultrasonographic examination of the coxofemoral joint, a surgical technique for repair of craniodorsal coxofemoral dislocation, and outcome.

Study Design—Clinical case reports.

Animals—Calves (n=4) with coxofemoral luxation.

Methods—Craniodorsal coxofemoral luxation was diagnosed by physical examination, radiographic, and ultrasonographic findings. Open surgical reduction of the femoral head was performed using a modified caudal approach.

Results—Craniodorsal luxation of the femoral head and the presence of an intact femoral neck were confirmed by ultrasonography. All luxations were successfully reduced and reluxation did not occur. At follow‐up, 1 heifer had calved and 1 was 5 months pregnant. One calf died of bronchopneumonia 6 days after surgery. One calf had severe coxofemoral degenerative joint disease diagnosed (ultrasonography, radiography, and arthrocentesis) 3 months after surgery and confirmed by necropsy.

Conclusion—Ultrasonography proved to be a simple and effective non‐invasive technique for diagnosis of coxofemoral luxation. Immediate surgical intervention in hip dislocation in calves is necessary to avoid unnecessary trauma to subchondral structures. In calves, open instead of closed surgical reduction appears preferable because it allows access to the acetabular cavity for removal of debris.

Clinical Relevance—Ultrasonography should be considered a supplementary but not an alternative to radiographic examination for diagnosis of coxofemoral luxation and for follow‐up examinations after reduction.
Endoscopic Resection of Dorsal Spinous Processes and Interspinous Ligament in Ten Horses
Authors: DESBROSSE FRANCIS G. , PERRIN ROLAND , LAUNOIS THOMAS , VANDEWEERD JEAN‐MICHEL E. , CLEGG PETER D.
Published: March 2007

Objective— To describe endoscopic surgical subtotal resection of the dorsal spinous processes (DSP) and interspinous ligament in horses.

Study Design— Descriptive clinical study.

Animals— Adult horses (n=10) with back pain and impinging dorsal spinous processes

Methods— Diseased portions of DSP and interspinous ligament were resected by endoscopic surgery, using Destandau Endospine to create a surgical space and provide triangulation for the endoscope, suction cannula, and surgical instruments. Medical records of 10 horses with pain attributable to DSP pathology treated by endoscopic resection of DSP were reviewed to determine intra‐ and postoperative complications and outcome.

Results— Affected portions of DSP were successfully resected with minimal hemorrhage. Limited periosteal reaction was noticed after 3 months in 2 horses. Nine horses had no complications and returned to full work within 8 weeks; 1 developed a subcutaneous abscess, which was successfully managed, and returned to work after 3 months. Surgical resection improved presenting clinical signs and owner's complaint although 2 horses did not return to previous performance levels.

Conclusion— Resection of DSP and interspinous ligament can be successfully performed endoscopically in horses. Hemorrhage was minimal but reduced visibility. Complications were minimal and most horses returned to work by 8 weeks.

Clinical Relevance— Endoscopic resection of DSP is a safe and reliable surgical procedure in horses.
Did Paul Get Luther Right?
Authors: Brondos David A.
Published: March 2007

Abstract:  Did Paul and Luther proclaim the same gospel? Although Luther's understanding of the work of Christ and his idea of the “joyous exchange” between Christ and believers reflect many ideas that are foreign to Paul's thought, both agree on the heart of the gospel, namely, that justification is by faith alone, since “faith alone fulfills the law.” In Christ God graciously accepts sinners just as they are, so that as they live out of faith, trusting solely in God for forgiveness and new life, they may become the righteous people God desires that they be, not for God's sake, but for the sake of human beings themselves.
Electric Field‐Dependent Dielectric Properties and High Tunability of Porous Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3 Ceramics
Authors: Zhang Yuanyuan , Wang Gengshui , Zeng Tao , Liang Ruihong , Dong Xianlin
Published: March 2007

Porous Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3 (BST) ceramics were fabricated by the traditional solid‐state reaction process, and their structural, microstructural, dielectric, and tunability properties were systemically investigated. Compared with the fully dense BST samples, porous samples exhibit smaller grain sizes, a more uniform microstructure, and much lower dielectric constants, while at the same time, exhibiting little increase in tunability, which is beneficial to the development of microwave‐tunable applications. At a frequency of 10 kHz and a temperature of 18°C, as porosity increased from 0% to 28.8%, the dielectric constant of the BST ceramics (under zero bias field) decreased from ɛr(0)∼1690 to ɛr(0)∼990, while the dielectric losses were still less than 0.2%, and the tunability increased from 17.6% to 19.6% (2.6 kV/mm).
Allergic contact cheilitis due to geraniol in food
Authors: Tamagawa‐Mineoka Risa , Katoh Norito , Kishimoto Saburo
Published: March 2007

Fragrance materials are present in many foods and are referred to as flavours and spices. However, despite their widespread use, there are few reports of allergic contact dermatitis caused by these additives. Here, we report contact allergy to geraniol in a patient who developed cheilitis on exposure to certain foods.
Size‐dependent predator–prey relationships between pikeperch and their prey fish
Authors: Dörner H. , Hülsmann S. , Hölker F. , Skov C. , Wagner A.
Published: March 2007

Abstract –  Predator–prey interactions in aquatic food webs depend on the sizes of both predator and prey. In the present study, size‐dependent interactions between >70 mm total length pikeperch Sander lucioperca (L.) and four different prey species in the biomanipulated Bautzen Reservoir were investigated. Gape widths of 597 pikeperch were measured, and the stomach contents of 806 specimens were analysed. Additionally, total lengths (TL) and body depths of 1448 prey fish were determined. The highest prey length to predator length ratio (PPR) was 0.63. Total lengths of piscivorous pikeperch and total lengths of prey fish [pikeperch, ruffe Gymnocephalus cernuus (L.) and roach Rutilus rutilus (L.)] were positively and linearly related. This was not the case for prey perch (Perca fluviatilis L.) as all size groups of pikeperch fed strongly on age‐0 perch. This study coupled with results of previous studies suggests that predation by pikeperch can have a major impact on the population dynamics of especially perch.
Spatial and temporal variation in prey selection of brown trout in a cold Arkansas tailwater
Authors: Johnson R. L. , Coghlan S. M. , Harmon T.
Published: March 2007

Abstract –  We examined prey utilisation patterns of brown trout (Salmo trutta Linnaeus) as related to available benthos in a cold tailwater (Little Red River, Arkansas) having low biodiversity of benthic macroinvertebrates and low availability of fish as prey. Benthic macroinvertebrates were sampled monthly in upstream and downstream sites over a 1‐year period. Stomach content analysis was also performed on 30 brown trout (10 each of three size classes) collected monthly from each site. Benthic and diet diversities were low at both sites, as isopods (Lirceus) accounted for 67% and 51% of the numerical abundance upstream and downstream, respectively, and 80% and 70% of all prey consumed by upstream and downstream brown trout. Physid snails (upstream) and chironomid larvae (downstream) accounted for most of the remaining prey taxa consumed. Piscivory and consumption of terrestrial invertebrates were rare. There was no clear relation between diet diversity and trout size. Densities of benthic macroinvertebrates and prey consumption were significantly greater upstream than downstream. Benthic macroinvertebrate assemblages and prey consumption were seasonally constant at both sites. Generally, prey consumption was consistent with availability of each prey in the benthos; the lack of benthic diversity and overwhelming abundance of one taxon (Lirceus) most likely contributed to food selection patterns. Although isopods are abundant within this tailwater to serve as a forage base, the displacement of native fish fauna because of the thermal regime of hypolimnetic release from Greers Ferry Reservoir probably serves as a major limitation to brown trout growth.
Treating vasomotor symptoms of menopause: The nurse practitioner’s perspective
Authors: Alexander Ivy M. , Moore Anne
Published: March 2007

Purpose: This article reviews the pathophysiology of vasomotor symptoms (VMS) of menopause and current management options.

Data sources: Current scientific literature.

Conclusions: In most menopausal women, loss of ovarian function results in VMS, including hot flashes, night sweats, and mood and sleep disturbances. Hormone therapy (HT) has been the mainstay of VMS treatment for many years, but safety concerns raised by publication of the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) results have dramatically reduced the use of this treatment. Since the WHI published its findings, attention has focused on other novel treatments for menopausal symptoms, including low‐dose oral or transdermal HT and agents such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, gabapentin, and clonidine. Many women also use complementary and alternative medications to manage VMS, but little evidence from controlled clinical trials supports their efficacy.

Implications for practice: The increasing number of alternative treatments for VMS requires improvement in patient–provider communication about treatment risks and benefits, individualization of treatment to meet patient needs and attitudes, and careful follow‐up to ensure adherence to potentially effective therapy. Nurse practitioners play a leading role in patient evaluation, discussions, and management to help women achieve control over bothersome VMS that dramatically impact their quality of life.
Multiple Realizability
Authors: Funkhouser Eric
Published: March 2007

This article explains the concept of multiple realizability and its role in the philosophy of mind. In particular, I consider what is required for the multiple realizability of psychological kinds, the relevance of multiple realizability to the reducibility and autonomy of psychology, as well as further refinements of the concept that would prove helpful.
Are Dietary Intakes and Eating Behaviors Related to Childhood Obesity? A Comprehensive Review of the Evidence
Authors: Newby P. K.
Published: March 2007

Childhood obesity is a serious problem for increasing numbers of children around the world. According to the International Obesity Task Force, 1 of 10 schoolaged children worldwide is overweight or obese, a number totaling 155 million; of these, 2-3% (30-45 million) are obese. Prevalence is highest in the Americas and Europe, followed by the Near/Middle East, with smaller but growing numbers in the Asia-Pacific and Sub-Saharan regions of the world.

In the United States, which provides the data for much of this report, prevalence continues to rise. The most recent nationally representative data indicate that 33.6% of individuals aged 2-19 years were overweight and 17.1% were at risk for overweight in 2003-2004, compared to 28.2% and 13.9% in 1999-2000, respectively. In this age group, the prevalence of overweight or at risk for overweight was highest among Mexican Americans (56.2%), followed by Non-Hispanic blacks (55.1%) and Non-Hispanic whites (49.8%), and a higher percentage of males were overweight (18.2%) compared to females (16.0%).
The Politics of Palliative Care and the Ethical Boundaries of Medicine: Gonzales v. Oregon as a Cautionary Tale
Authors: Hilliard Bryan
Published: March 2007

The 2006 term of the United States Supreme Court is now well underway, and the results of the congressional mid-term elections are in. No doubt, decisions will be handed down and national legislation proposed – perhaps even enacted – that will directly or indirectly affect the physician-patient relationship as well as the profession of medicine itself. Of major concern to physicians, patients, and the lay public is the ongoing, rather contentious debate surrounding both patient access to adequate pain control and what constitutes proper physician conduct in treating patients who are experiencing either chronic or end stage disease pain. Those knowledgeable in palliative medicine maintain that an “epidemic of undertreated pain” now exists, and probably has existed for more than a decade. A significant number of patients experience unnecessary pain and suffering, and this disturbing phenomenon is both an individual patient care problem and a public health concern.
Genetic Deletion of a Single Immunodominant T‐cell Response Confers Susceptibility to Virus‐induced Demyelination
Authors: Pavelko Kevin D. , Pease Larry R. , David Chella S. , Rodriguez Moses
Published: March 2007

An important question in neuropathology involves determining the antigens that are targeted during demyelinating disease. Viral infection of the central nervous system (CNS) leads to T‐cell responses that can be protective as well as pathogenic. In the Theiler’s murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV) model of demyelination it is known that the immune response to the viral capsid protein 2 (VP2) is critical for disease pathogenesis. This study shows that expressing the whole viral capsid VP2 or the minimal CD8‐specific peptide VP2121‐130 as “self” leads to a loss of VP2‐specific immune responses. Loss of responsiveness is caused by T cell‐specific tolerance, as VP2‐specific antibodies are generated in response to infection. More importantly, these mice lose the CD8 T‐cell response to the immunodominant peptide VP2121‐130, which is critical for the development of demyelinating disease. The transgenic mice fail to clear the infection and develop chronic demyelinating disease in the spinal cord white matter. These findings demonstrate that T‐cell responses can be removed by transgenic expression and that lack of responsiveness alters viral clearance and CNS pathology. This model will be important for understanding the mechanisms involved in antigen‐specific T‐cell deletion and the contribution of this response to CNS pathology.
Effectors of Demyelination and Remyelination in the CNS: Implications for Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Rodriguez Moses
Published: March 2007

Most of the research on multiple sclerosis (MS) has focused on the early events that trigger demyelination and subsequent remyelination. Less attention has been given to the factors that directly mediate the demyelination that is the hallmark of the disease. Effector cells or molecules are those factors directly responsible for mediating the damage in the disease. Similarly, there are effector molecules that are critical for remyelination in the central nervous system (CNS). By understanding those effector molecules in demyelination and remyelination that directly influence the pathologic process, we should be able to generate specific therapies with the greatest potential for benefiting MS patients. This review focuses on effector cells and molecules that are critical for demyelination and remyelination in MS but also in experimental models of the disease including experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), virus‐induced models of demyelination (Theiler’s virus, murine hepatitis virus), and toxic models of demyelination (lysolecithin, ethidium bromide, and cuprizone). These are models in which the effector molecules for demyelination and remyelination have been most precisely evaluated.
Influence of Deacetylation on the Rheological Properties of Xanthan–Guar Interactions in Dilute Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Khouryieh H.A. , Herald T. J. , Aramouni F. , Bean S. , Alavi S.
Published: March 2007

ABSTRACT:  An oscillating capillary rheometer was used to investigate the effects of xanthan deacetylation on the viscoelastic properties and intrinsic viscosity of xanthan and guar mixtures in dilute aqueous solutions. Deacetylated xanthan exhibited a stronger synergistic interaction with guar than native xanthan did due to the destabilized helical structure and increased chain flexibility of the deacetylated xanthan. No gels were observed for all xanthan–guar mixtures. Native xanthan–guar mixtures exhibited a liquid‐like behavior, whereas deacetylated xanthan–guar mixtures exhibited a gel‐like behavior. The relative viscosity and elasticity of deacetylated xanthan–guar mixtures were much stronger than those for native xanthan–guar mixtures. The intrinsic viscosities of deacetylated xanthan–guar mixtures were higher than the calculated values assuming no interaction, whereas the intrinsic viscosities of native xanthan–guar mixtures were lower than the calculated values assuming no interaction, demonstrating that intermolecular binding occurred between the disordered segments of xanthan and guar gum in dilute aqueous solutions.
Real‐time measurement of nitric oxide in single mature mouse skeletal muscle fibres during contractions
Authors: Pye Deborah , Palomero Jesus , Kabayo Tabitha , Jackson Malcolm J.
Published: March 2007

Nitric oxide (NO) is thought to play multiple roles in skeletal muscle including regulation of some adaptations to contractile activity, but appropriate methods for the analysis of intracellular NO activity are lacking. In this study we have examined the intracellular generation of NO in isolated single mature mouse skeletal muscle fibres at rest and following a period of contractile activity. Muscle fibres were isolated from the flexor digitorum brevis muscle of mice and intracellular NO production was visualized in real‐time using the fluorescent NO probe 4‐amino‐5‐methylamino‐2′,7′‐difluorofluorescein diacetate (DAF‐FM DA). Some leakage of DAF‐FM was apparent from fibres loaded with the probe, but they retained sufficient probe to respond to changes in intracellular NO following addition of the NO donor 3‐(2‐hydroxy‐1‐methyl‐2‐nitrosohydrazino)‐N‐methyl‐1‐propanamine (NOC‐7) up to 30 min after loading. Electrically stimulated contractions in isolated fibres increased the rate of change in DAF‐FM fluorescence by ∼48% compared to non‐stimulated fibres (P < 0.05) and the rate of change in DAF‐FM fluorescence in the stimulated fibres returned to control values by 5 min after contractions. Treatment of isolated fibres with the NO synthase inhibitors NG‐nitro‐l‐arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (l‐NAME) or NG‐monomethyl‐l‐arginine (l‐NMMA) reduced the increase in DAF‐FM fluorescence observed in response to contractions of untreated fibres. Treatment of fibres with the cell‐permeable superoxide scavenger 4,5‐dihydroxy‐1,3‐benzenedisulphonic acid (Tiron) also reduced the increase in fluorescence observed during contractions suggesting that superoxide, or more probably peroxynitrite, contributes to the fluorescence observed. Thus this technique can be used to examine NO generation in quiescent and contracting skeletal muscle fibres in real time, although peroxynitrite and other reactive nitrogen species may potentially contribute to the fluorescence values observed.
Spontaneous IPSCs and glycine receptors with slow kinetics in wide‐field amacrine cells in the mature rat retina
Authors: Veruki Margaret Lin , Gill Silje Bakken , Hartveit Espen
Published: March 2007

The functional properties of glycine receptors were analysed in different types of wide‐field amacrine cells, narrowly stratifying cells considered to play a role in larger‐scale integration across the retina. The patch‐clamp technique was used to record spontaneous IPSCs (spIPSCs) and glycine‐evoked patch responses from mature rat retinal slices (4–7 weeks postnatal). Glycinergic spIPSCs were blocked reversibly by strychnine (300 nm). Compared to previously described spIPSCs in AII amacrine cells, the spIPSCs in wide‐field amacrine cells displayed a very slow decay time course (τfast∼ 15 ms; τslow∼ 57 ms). The kinetic properties of spIPSCs in whole‐cell recordings were paralleled by even slower deactivation kinetics of responses evoked by brief pulses of glycine (3 mm) to outside‐out patches from wide‐field amacrine cells (τfast∼ 45 ms; τslow∼ 350 ms). Non‐stationary noise analysis of patch responses and spIPSCs yielded similar average single‐channel conductances (∼31 and ∼34 pS, respectively). Similar, as well as both lower‐ and higher‐conductance levels could be identified from directly observed single‐channel gating during the decay phase of spIPSCs and patch responses. These results suggest that the slow glycinergic spIPSCs in wide‐field amacrine cells involve α2β heteromeric receptors. Taken together with previous work, the kinetic properties of glycine receptors in different types of amacrine cells display a considerable range that is probably a direct consequence of differential expression of receptor subunits. Unique kinetic properties are likely to differentially shape the glycinergic input to different types of amacrine cells and thereby contribute to distinct integrative properties among these cells.
Transient alterations in transmural repolarization gradients and arrhythmogenicity in hypokalaemic Langendorff‐perfused murine hearts
Authors: Sabir Ian N. , Killeen Matthew J. , Goddard Catharine A. , Thomas Glyn , Gray Simon , Grace Andrew A. , Huang Christopher L.‐H.
Published: March 2007

Clinical hypokalaemia is associated with acquired electrocardiographic QT prolongation and arrhythmic activity initiated by premature ventricular depolarizations and suppressed by lidocaine (lignocaine). Nevertheless, regular (S1) pacing at a 125 ms interstimulus interval resulted in stable waveforms and rhythm studied using epicardial and endocardial monophasic action potential (MAP) electrodes in Langendorff‐perfused murine hearts whether under normokalaemic (5.2 mm K+) or hypokalaemic (3.0 mm K+) conditions, in both the presence and absence of lidocaine (10 μm). Furthermore, the transmural gradient in repolarization time, known to be altered in the congenital long‐QT syndromes, and reflected in the difference between endocardial and epicardial MAP duration at 90% repolarization (ΔAPD90), did not differ significantly (P > 0.05) between normokalaemic (5.5 ± 4.5 ms, n= 8, five hearts), hypokalaemic (n= 8, five hearts), or lidocaine‐treated normokalaemic (n= 8, five hearts) or hypokalaemic (n= 8, five hearts) hearts. However, premature ventricular depolarizations occurring in response to extrasystolic (S2) stimulation delivered at S1S2 intervals between 0 and 22 ± 6 ms following recovery from refractoriness initiated arrhythmic activity specifically in hypokalaemic (n= 8, five hearts) as opposed to normokalaemic (n= 25, 14 hearts), or lidocaine‐treated hypokalaemic (n= 8, five hearts) or normokalaemic hearts (n= 8, five hearts). This was associated with sharp but transient reversals in ΔAPD90 in MAPs initiated within the 250 ms interval directly succeeding premature ventricular depolarizations, from 3.3 ± 5.6 ms to −31.8 ± 11.8 ms (P < 0.05) when they were initiated immediately after recovery from refractoriness. In contrast the corresponding latency differences consistently remained close to the normokalaemic value (−1.6 ± 1.4 ms, P > 0.05). These findings empirically associate arrhythmogenesis in hypokalaemic hearts with transient alterations in transmural repolarization gradients resulting from premature ventricular depolarizations. This is in contrast to sustained alterations in transmural repolarization gradients present on regular stimulation in long‐QT syndrome models.
Predictions of the Properties of Water from First Principles
Authors: Bukowski Robert , Szalewicz Krzysztof , Groenenboom Gerrit C. , van der Avoird Ad
Published: March 2007

A force field for water has been developed entirely from first principles, without any fitting to experimental data. It contains both pairwise and many-body interactions. This force field predicts the properties of the water dimer and of liquid water in excellent agreement with experiments, a previously elusive objective. Precise knowledge of the intermolecular interactions in water will facilitate a better understanding of this ubiquitous substance.
Multiple Functions of the IKK-Related Kinase IKKε in Interferon-Mediated Antiviral Immunity
Authors: tenOever Benjamin R. , Ng Sze-Ling , Chua Mark A. , McWhirter Sarah M. , García-Sastre Adolfo , Maniatis Tom
Published: March 2007

IKKϵ is an IKK (inhibitor of nuclear factor κBkinase)–related kinase implicated in virus induction of interferon-β (IFNβ). We report that, although mice lacking IKKϵ produce normal amounts of IFNβ, they are hypersusceptible to viral infection because of a defect in the IFN signaling pathway. Specifically, a subset of type I IFN-stimulated genes are not activated in the absence of IKKϵ because the interferon-stimulated gene factor 3 complex (ISGF3) does not bind to promoter elements of the affected genes. We demonstrate that IKKϵ is activated by IFNβ and that IKKϵ directly phosphorylates signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1), a component of ISGF3. We conclude that IKKϵ plays a critical role in the IFN-inducible antiviral transcriptional response.
Halwaxiids and the Early Evolution of the Lophotrochozoans
Authors: Morris Simon Conway , Caron Jean-Bernard
Published: March 2007

Halkieriids and wiwaxiids are cosmopolitan sclerite-bearing metazoans from the Lower and Middle Cambrian. Although they have similar scleritomes, their phylogenetic position is contested. A new scleritomous fossil from the Burgess Shale has the prominent anterior shell of the halkieriids but also bears wiwaxiid-like sclerites. This new fossil defines the monophyletic halwaxiids and indicates that they have a key place in early lophotrochozoan history.
Discovery of Till Deposition at the Grounding Line of Whillans Ice Stream
Authors: Anandakrishnan Sridhar , Catania Ginny A. , Alley Richard B. , Horgan Huw J.
Published: March 2007

We report on the discovery of a grounding-line sedimentary wedge (“till delta”) deposited by Whillans Ice Stream, West Antarctica. Our observation is that grounding-line deposition serves to thicken the ice and stabilize the position of the grounding line. The ice thickness at the grounding line is greater than that of floating ice in hydrostatic equilibrium. Thus, the grounding line will tend to remain in the same location despite changes in sea level (until sea level rises enough to overcome the excess thickness that is due to the wedge). Further, our observation demonstrates the occurrence of rapid subglacial erosion, sediment transport by distributed subglacial till deformation, and grounding-line sedimentation, which have important implications for ice dynamics, numerical modeling of ice flow, and interpretation of the sedimentation record.
Looking Beyond Corn and Petroleum
Authors: Plieninger Tobias
Published: March 2007

The Omnivore's Dilemma
. A Natural History of Four Meals.
By Michael Pollan
. The Penguin Press, New York, 2006. 463 pp. $26.95, C$38. ISBN 9781594200823.

Through discussions of four meals, the author explores the environmental and social impact of alternative forms of agriculture and food production.
TNFpolymorphisms modify endotoxin exposure-associated longitudinal lung function decline
Authors: Zhang Hongxi , Hang Jingqing , Wang Xiaorong , Zhou Wei , Sun Bixiong , Dai Helian , Su Li , Christiani David C
Published: March 2007

Objectives:Endotoxin exposure induces airway inflammation, hyper-responsiveness and higher expression of tumour necrosis factor (TNF). This study was conducted to investigate whetherTNFpolymorphisms modify the effect of endotoxin exposure on chronic declines in lung function.

Methods:Associations betweenTNFandLTApolymorphisms, endotoxin exposure and lung function were analysed in 263 cotton workers and 230 silk workers as a reference group, who were prospectively followed for 20 years. Multiple linear regression models were used to assess the association, with adjustment for smoking and other covariates.

Results:Endotoxin exposure was associated with faster lung function decline among genotypes associated with higher TNF expression levels, with estimates of annual FEV1change in relation to endotoxin exposure of –2.9 ml and –6.8 ml in theG/GandG/A+AAgenotypes, respectively, for theTNFpolymorphism; and –2.0 ml, –4.0 ml and –3.6 ml inA/A,A/GandG/Ggenotypes, respectively, for theLTApolymorphism. When joint effects of endotoxin exposure and smoking were considered, the effect modification ofTNFandLTApolymorphisms was prominent in never smokers.

Conclusions:TNFandLTApolymorphisms may modify the association between occupational endotoxin exposure and longitudinal lung function decline, which was more clearly observed in never smokers.
The metabolic syndrome: an introduction
Authors: Katzmarzyk Peter T.
Published: March 2007

It is my pleasure to introduce this special thematic issue of Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism (APNM) on metabolic syndrome (MetS). This publication comes at an exciting time, in the midst of debates encompassing the most appropriate clinical definition of MetS, its potential etiological pathways, and questions about the very existence of MetS as an entity unto itself. This compilation of invited reviews and original research articles provides an overview and sampling of the latest research on MetS. It has been designed to meet the interests of the diverse readership of APNM and to stimulate further research in this important area of investigation.
Caerulein-induced intracellular pancreatic zymogen activation is dependent on calcineurin
Authors: Husain Sohail Z. , Grant Wayne M. , Gorelick Fred S. , Nathanson Michael H. , Shah Ahsan U.
Published: March 2007

Aberrant cytosolic Ca2+flux in pancreatic acinar cells is critical to the pathological pancreatic zymogen activation observed in acute pancreatitis, but the downstream effectors are not known. In this study, we examined the role of Ca2+-activated protein phosphatase 2B (or calcineurin) in zymogen activation. Isolated pancreatic acinar cells were stimulated with supraphysiological caerulein (100 nM) with or without the calcineurin inhibitors FK506 or cell-permeable calcineurin inhibitory peptide (CiP). Chymotrypsin activity was measured as a marker of zymogen activation, and the percent amylase secretion was used as a measure of enzyme secretion. Cytosolic Ca2+changes were recorded in acinar cells loaded with the intermediate Ca2+-affinity dye fluo-5F using a scanning confocal microscope. A 50% reduction in chymotrypsin activity was observed after pretreatment with 1 μM FK506 or 10 μM CiP. These pretreatments did not affect amylase secretion or the rise in cytosolic Ca2+after caerulein stimulation. These findings suggest that calcineurin mediates caerulein-induced intra-acinar zymogen activation but not enzyme secretion or the initial caerulein-induced cytosolic Ca2+signal.
Postpartum glycemic homeostasis in early lactating rats is accompanied by transient and specific increase of soleus insulin response through IRS2/AKT pathway
Authors: Anhê Gabriel F. , Hirabara Sandro M. , Turrer Tatiana C. , Caperuto Luciana C. , Anhê Fernando F. , Ribeiro Luciene M. , Marçal Anderson C. , Carvalho Carla R. O. , Curi Rui , Machado Ubiratan F. , Bordin Silvana
Published: March 2007

It is known that at the moment of delivery immediate lost of conceptus (main site of glucose disposal in late pregnancy) is not able to disturb glucose homeostasis in early lactating mothers. However, the mechanism by which this adaptation takes place in early lactation is still unknown. Most studies concerning insulin sensitivity in lactating rats were carried out at 11–13 days postpartum and did not describe functional changes in insulin response in early lactation. Here we show that lactation hypersensitivity to insulin is observed as early as 3 days after delivery (L3). We show that the oxidative soleus muscle displays a transient increased maximal insulin-induced glucose uptake and CO2production, which is temporally limited to L3. Response of soleus muscle was accompanied by an increase in glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) content at L3. This adaptive response was not detected in the glycolytic plantaris muscle, which displayed lower content of GLUT4. We also found that soleus muscle from early lactating rats have higher insulin receptor expression and tyrosine phosphorylation. Downstream steps of insulin signaling pathway; e.g., insulin receptor substrate 2 tyrosine phosphorylation and its association with phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase were also upregulated in soleus muscle. In parallel, protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B expression, a negative regulator of insulin signal, was reduced. Importantly, all of these molecular alterations were time limited to L3 and were not observed in plantaris muscle. These results suggest that improved insulin action in oxidative, but not in glycolytic muscle might contribute to achievement of glucose homeostasis postpartum.