bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of sample bias on backscattered ion spectroscopy in the helium ion microscope
Authors: Behan G. , Feng J. F. , Zhang H. Z. , Nirmalraj P. N. , Boland J. J.
Published: October 2010

The authors present experimental results showing the effect of an applied bias voltage on backscattered ion spectra acquired from thin films of ruthenium and hafnia in the helium ion microscope. A characteristic peak associated with the presence of a thin layer of material is observed to shift as a function of sample bias voltage. The magnitude of this shift is measured, and the authors qualitatively estimate the composition of their samples as well as investigate the neutralization of ions by the sample in the helium ion micoscope (HeIM). They discuss the phenomenona in terms of thin films of ruthenium and hafnia and show the implications of these results on HeIM spectroscopy.
An Integrated Genomic and Epigenomic Approach Predicts Therapeutic Response to Zebularine in Human Liver Cancer
Authors: Andersen Jesper B. , Factor Valentina M. , Marquardt Jens U. , Raggi Chiara , Lee Yun-Han , Seo Daekwan , Conner Elizabeth A. , Thorgeirsson Snorri S.
Published: October 2010

Drug-induced transcription and epigenetic changes can predict whether liver cancer can be successfully treated with an epigenome-targeting drug.
Autocrine Interferon Priming in Macrophages but Not Dendritic Cells Results in Enhanced Cytokine and Chemokine Production after Coronavirus Infection
Authors: Zhou Haixia , Zhao Jincun , Perlman Stanley
Published: October 2010

Coronaviruses efficiently inhibit interferon (IFN) induction in nonhematopoietic cells and conventional dendritic cells (cDC). However, IFN is produced in infected macrophages, microglia, and plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC). To begin to understand why IFN is produced in infected macrophages, we infected bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMM) and as a control, bone marrow-derived DC (BMDC) with the coronavirus mouse hepatitis virus (MHV). As expected, BMM but not BMDC expressed type I IFN. IFN production in infected BMM was nearly completely dependent on signaling through the alpha/beta interferon (IFN-α/β) receptor (IFNAR). Several IFN-dependent cytokines and chemokines showed the same expression pattern, with enhanced production in BMM compared to BMDC and dependence upon signaling through the IFNAR. Exogenous IFN enhanced IFN-dependent gene expression in BMM at early times after infection and in BMDC at all times after infection but did not stimulate expression of molecules that signal through myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF). Collectively, our results show that IFN is produced at early times postinfection (p.i.) in MHV-infected BMM, but not in BMDC, and primes expression of IFN and IFN-responsive genes. Further, our results also show that BMM are generally more responsive to MHV infection, since MyD88-dependent pathways are also activated to a greater extent in these cells than in BMDC.

IMPORTANCECoronaviruses cause diseases with various degrees of severity in humans, including severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). In domestic and companion animals, coronaviruses induce interferon (IFN) in only a few cell types. In particular, macrophages, which are known to have both protective and pathogenic roles in coronavirus infections, express IFN while dendritic cells do not. Little is known about the basis of these cell-specific differences in IFN induction. Here, we show that an animal coronavirus, mouse hepatitis virus, induces IFN and other IFN-responsive molecules in macrophages, but not in dendritic cells, via a feedback loop that is dependent upon low-level IFN expression at early times after infection. This pathway of cellular activation may be a useful target for modulating macrophage function in order to selectively enhance the antivirus immune response and diminish the pathogenic role of these cells in SARS and other coronavirus infections.
Acupuncture Reduces Crying in Infants with Infantile Colic: A Randomised, Controlled, Blind Clinical Study
Authors: Landgren Kajsa , Kvorning Nina , Hallström Inger
Published: October 2010

Objective

To investigate whether acupuncture reduces the duration and intensity of crying in infants with colic.

Patients and methods

90 otherwise healthy infants, 2–8 weeks old, with infantile colic were randomised in this controlled blind study. 81 completed a structured programme consisting of six visits during 3 weeks to an acupuncture clinic in Sweden. Parents blinded to the allocation of their children met a blinded nurse. The infant was subsequently given to another nurse in a separate room, who handled all infants similarly except that infants allocated to receive acupuncture were given minimal, standardised acupuncture for 2 s in LI4.

Results

There was a difference (p=0.034) favouring the acupuncture group in the time which passed from inclusion until the infant no longer met the criteria for colic. The duration of fussing was lower in the acupuncture group the first (74 vs 129 min; p=0.029) and second week (71 vs 102 min; p=0.047) as well as the duration of colicky crying in the second intervention week (9 vs 13 min; p=0.046) was lower in the acupuncture group. The total duration of fussing, crying and colicky crying (TC) was lower in the acupuncture group during the first (193 vs 225 min; p=0.025) and the second intervention week (164 vs 188 min; p=0.016). The relative difference from baseline throughout the intervention weeks showed differences between groups for fussing in the first week (22 vs 6 min; p=0.028), for colicky crying in the second week (92 vs 73 min; p=0.041) and for TC in the second week (44 vs 29 min; p=0.024), demonstrating favour towards the acupuncture group.

Conclusions

Minimal acupuncture shortened the duration and reduced the intensity of crying in infants with colic. Further research using different acupuncture points, needle techniques and intervals between treatments is required.
Review of feline oral disease
Authors: Southerden Peter
Published: October 2010

The wide spectrum of dental and oral conditions that affect cats pose both diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, as they may present with similar signs at different stages of each disease process. This two‐part article provides an overview of common feline oral disease and summarises recent progress in the understanding of different disease processes. The ability to diagnose and successfully treat the conditions discussed assumes a detailed knowledge of the normal anatomy, development and appearance of the feline oral cavity as well as competence in the necessary diagnostic procedures of history taking, charting, and dental and oral radiography. Part 1 discusses the diagnostic and treatment options for periodontitis and chronic gingivostomatitis. Part 2, to be published in the February issue of In Practice, will discuss other common oral conditions encountered in cats.
Prebreeding examination of the stallion
Authors: Crabtree James
Published: October 2010

For a stallion to have adequate fertility, it is essential that it is fit, healthy, disease free, have a good libido and be able to mate. The only way to achieve fertility rates is if it also delivers semen of sufficient quantity and quality on a regular basis. A stallion's potential fertility is estimated by collecting and evaluating its semen. This article describes a clinical protocol for the collection and evaluation of semen, and discusses how to predict fertility from the results. An article in the January issue (In Practice, volume 32, pp 22–28) described how to carry out a physical examination of a stallion to establish breeding soundness.
Lead poisoning in cattle and sheep
Authors: Payne Jo , Livesey Chris
Published: October 2010

Lead has no known biological role and is harmful to human and animal health. Over the past three decades, there has been a large reduction in lead in foods, and its use in food‐related products such as for solders in food cans and bottle seals has been abolished. The use of lead in paints for domestic and livestock housing has been massively reduced and leaded gasoline has been withdrawn. Despite this, lead poisoning remains the most commonly diagnosed cause of poisoning in cattle and sheep and most incidents are preventable. This article reviews the sources of lead that can cause lead poisoning in cattle and sheep and the implications of this for food safety. It also outlines how the incidence of cases might be reduced.
Treatment of angular limb deformities in foals
Authors: Smith Lewis
Published: October 2010

The sooner a foal's angular conformation is evaluated, the more easily any deformities can be treated. While severely affected foals are likely to require more complex treatment, it may be possible to avoid more radical interventions by tackling problems early on. Practitioners play a vital role in the careful assessment of such deformities to ensure that appropriate management is undertaken before the window of opportunity to make simple manipulations to a foal's angular conformation is lost. The ability to correctly distinguish angular deformities from rotational and flexural deformities is vital. This article describes an approach to the investigation and management of angular limb deformities in foals, and discusses various treatment options, ranging from conservative management to aggressive surgical intervention.
Presales radiographic surveys in yearlings 1. Image interpretation and significance of lesions in the fetlock
Authors: Pilsworth Rob , Head Marcus
Published: October 2010

The sale of thoroughbreds, whether via public auction or privately, frequently demands the use of prepurchase radiography. This is may be carried out by the vendor in advance of a sale in an attempt to assure purchasers that the animal they are about to buy is ‘fit for purpose’ and does not carry any bone lesions that would not be visible on an external clinical examination and which could impact future soundness and a horse's ability to train. In other cases, these radiographs are taken at the sales complex itself on behalf of and paid for by the potential purchaser. This article, the first of two reviewing the predictive value of presales radiographs in yearlings, discusses the interpretation of the images and considers the possible consequences of particular changes found in the fetlock on the future potential athletic performance of a racehorse. Part 2, to be published in the June issue of In Practice, reviews the significance of lesions present in the carpus, tarsus and stifle.
Approach to preventive health care and welfare in rabbits
Authors: Sayers Ian
Published: October 2010

Rabbits are the third most popular mammalian pet in the UK, with an estimated population of two million. Common problems, including dental disease, ileus, perineal soiling and obesity, often result in significant compromises in the health and welfare of this species. This article discusses some key areas, such as good hygiene and husbandry, that can help to prevent frequently encountered conditions in rabbits. In each case, it highlights the importance of establishing and treating the underlying cause to ensure a successful outcome.
Differential diagnosis of scrotal enlargement in bulls
Authors: Statham Jonathan
Published: October 2010

Fertility performance remains central to profitable beef and dairy production. Delayed calving to conception intervals translate to lost income. Hence, the bull represents a significant investment in both beef and dairy systems, and subfertility in these animals is a serious issue. Around two‐thirds of subfertile bulls may be detected by physical examination alone, with one of the clinical signs being scrotal enlargement. This article describes a systematic diagnostic approach to scrotal enlargement in bulls and discusses the common differential diagnoses for this presentation.
Handling and veterinary care of British bats
Authors: Bexton Steve , Couper David
Published: October 2010

Most wildlife casualties seen in veterinary practice are from common species living in close proximity to humans. Despite recent declines in bat populations, certain species are still relatively abundant in the UK. Many of these bats roost in buildings, increasing their potential exposure to man‐made hazards. Their small size and adaptations to flight make them a challenge for the veterinary practitioner. Vets should be aware of the health risks of handling bats, and should have realistic expectations regarding their chances of survival. Practitioners should also be familiar with the legislation pertaining to bats and their roosts. The successful rehabilitation of bats is often time consuming and specialised, and relies on collaborating with local bat groups and those experienced in caring for bats. This article describes the general approach to dealing with bats and outlines the common conditions that might be encountered in these animals.
Ethical aspects of euthanasia of owned animals
Authors: Yeates James
Published: October 2010

The BVA's Ethics and Welfare Group recently considered the issue of euthanasia to review what advice could be given both to recent graduates and older veterinary surgeons on the euthanasia of owned animals (BVA 2009). Expanding on those deliberations, and using the approach to ethical dilemmas suggested in a previous article by Siobhan Mullan and David Main (In Practice, July 2001, volume 23, pages 394–401), James Yeates discusses the ethical aspects associated with a decision to euthanase an animal from both the vet's and owner's perspective.
Communication in farm animal practice 1. Farmer‐vet relationships
Authors: Atkinson Owen
Published: October 2010

Farm animal practice continues to evolve and, more and more, the role of the farm animal vet is that of a communicator of knowledge. Herd health planning and advisory work are recognised as important areas for the farm vet practitioner to embrace (Lowe 2009). To be successful in these areas, vets must be sophisticated and effective communicators, and need to develop new skills to engage with farm clients in increasingly challenging environments. In this twopart article, Owen Atkinson uses fictitious case studies to outline some of the challenges vets face. Part 1 outlines some theories on farmer‐vet relationships, while Part 2, to be published in the April issue of In Practice, looks at the processes involved in facilitating change.
Indications, placement and management of tracheostomy tubes
Authors: Nicholson Ian , Baines Stephen
Published: October 2010

Placement of a tracheostomy tube is a simple procedure and can be a lifesaving intervention. However, the presence of a tube within the trachea that allows air to bypass the glottis and nasal cavity changes respiratory tract function and this needs to be addressed and managed accordingly. Patients require constant monitoring while the tube is in place ‐ complications are common and may lead to death if they are unrecognised and untreated. This article describes the indications and surgical technique for tracheostomy tube placement, and discusses the postoperative management of the tube and the patient. It also highlights the potential complications that might arise and outlines how these may be avoided.
Growth of Tagged American Lobsters, Homarus americanus, in the Bay of Fundy
Authors: Campbell Alan
Published: October 2010

Sphyrion-tagged lobsters recaptured in the Bay of Fundy during 1977–80 yielded mean annual molt increment and molt probability data for male and female lobsters of 60–171 mm carapace length from which growth curves were calculated. In addition, a multiple regression model was used to generate growth curves from premolt size, number of molt periods lobsters were exposed to, and growth increment data for 850 tagged lobsters at liberty for 1–5 yr. Von Bertalanffy parameters were calculated from these empirical growth curves, which suggest that lobsters take 20–35 yr from time of hatching to reach 200 mm carapace length in the Bay of Fundy. Analysis of pleopods indicated that the majority of lobsters molt during August–October each year. Growth per molt of immature (60–94 mm carapace length) and mature (95–170 mm carapace length) male and immature female lobsters was arithmetic (regression slope 1.04) but was regressive for mature females (slope 0.95). Mature lobsters molted less frequently than immature lobsters, but mature males grew more rapidly than mature females. Most mature females in the Bay of Fundy are on a 2-yr molt–reproductive cycle. About 20% of ovigerous females recaptured within 2 yr after release had extruded eggs a second time without molting, confirming that multiple egg extrusions between molts do occur naturally.
Mercury Levels in the Sunfish, Lepomis gibbosus, Relative to pH and Other Environmental Variables of Precambrian Shield Lakes
Authors: Wren Christopher D. , MacCrimmon Hugh R.
Published: October 2010

Growth rate and total mercury concentrations were determined in muscle tissue of pumpkinseed sunfish (Lepomis gibbosus) collected from 16 waters in south-central Ontario. Mean water pH ranged from 5.6 to 8.4. Growth rate is correlated positively with lake pH, whereas fish mercury levels are higher at lower pH. Differences in growth rate may be the result of both metal and acid stress in the lower pH waters. Pumpkinseed mercury levels can be accurately described by an equation incorporating chemical and physical lake variables.
Physicochemical Typologies of South-Central Ontario Lakes
Authors: Zimmerman A. P. , Noble K. M. , Gates M. A. , Paloheimo J. E.
Published: October 2010

We present basic physicochemical data and principal component analyses (PCA) of both morphometric and chemical variables for 37 Ontario lakes. Multivariately derived composite variables were substituted for more conventional independent variables in several regression models. These composite variables always explained a greater percentage of variance than the standard morphometric variables. A typology derived in part from the PCA was useful in identifying groups of lakes for which the Ragotzkie model predicting maximum depth of the summer thermocline was appropriate and other groups of lakes that appear to be outliers on the basis of insufficient volume. In addition, variables important in defining the typology, particularly [Formula: see text] ratio and lake volume, were shown to be among the most important in a stepwise, multiple linear regression explaining 91% of the variance in nannoplankton to filter-feeding zooplankton ratios in the lakes. This represents a 47% improvement over previously reported results. Total phosphorus still explained more variance in several measures of phytoplankton biomass than did a multivariately derived composite chemical variable, but there were significant explanatory improvements in phosphorus–phytoplankton regressions within lake groups derived from a typology based on a speciated chemical matrix. There appears to be some overlap in biological patterns from morphometrically and chemically defined lake types. We suggest that these may represent ends of a continuum of differing density regulation responses by the biological communities.
Relationship Between Environmental Temperature and Yields of Subarctic and Temperate Zone Fish Species
Authors: Schlesinger David A. , Regier Henry A.
Published: October 2010

Fishes inhabiting subarctic and temperate zone lakes exhibit distinct optimal growth temperatures and temperature preferenda. However, within regional data sets, attempts to correlate fish yields with temperature variables have generally been unsuccessful. In our study, curvilinear relationships between "long-term mean annual air temperature" (TEMP) and sustained yields of three species were fitted using data from 23 intensively fished lakes in Canada and the northern United States. Optimum TEMP values for sustained yield were approximately −1.0, 1.5, and 2 °C, respectively, for lake whitefish (Coregonus clupeaformis), northern pike (Esox lucius), and walleye (Stizostedion vitreum vitreum). These differences suggest that the influence of temperature on sustained fish yields from subarctic and temperate zone lakes may, in the past, have been underestimated.
Fine mapping a domestication-related QTL for spike-related traits in a synthetic wheat
Authors: Wang Jin , Liao Xiangzheng , Li Yulian , Zhou Ronghua , Yang Xueju , Gao Lifeng , Jia Jizeng
Published: October 2010

QTL analysis using a BC5F2:3mapping population derived from a cross between Am3, a synthetic hexaploid wheat as a donor parent, and Laizhou953, a Chinese winter wheat cultivar as a recurrent parent, showed that variation at the microsatellite locus Xgwm113 on chromosome 4B was associated with variation in grain number per spike (GN), spike length (SL), and spikelet number per spike (SPI). The Qgn.caas-4B, Qsl.caas-4B, and Qspi.caas-4B were responsible for 16.6%–35.6%, 18.0%–32.3%, and 23.7%–25.9% of the phenotypic variation present in two environments, respectively. Segregation for GN fit a Mendelian monogenic ratio. A subpopulation consisting of 497 plants was used to map the QTL to a 1.2 cM interval between Xgwm113 and Xgwm857. The three spike traits, GN, SL, and SPI, were correlated and were thus probably under the pleiotropic control of the QTL. The Am3 allele had a reduction effect on all three spike traits. Evidence for positive selective history on SSR locus Xgwm113 was supported using Ewens–Watterson’s statistic test on a germplasm panel of wild and landrace entries, suggesting that this genomic region may contain genes under selection during wheat domestication.
Molecular, developmental, and evolutionary genetic studies highlight rapid evolution of genes and genetic systems
Authors: Xu Jianping
Published: October 2010

The 53rd annual conference of the Genetics Society of Canada was held at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, from 17 to 20 June 2010. About 100 geneticists from across Canada and the US attended the meeting, with a total of 27 posters and 55 oral presentations. The presentations highlighted the power of genetics for understanding a variety of biological issues from sex and recombination to alcoholism and cancer, from DNA replication to antimicrobial resistance, horizontal gene transfer, foraging, and courtship. Large-scale genomic and transcriptomic comparisons were included in many presentations to demonstrate the impact of genomics in biomedical research. The combined molecular, developmental, and evolutionary genetic investigations presented at the meeting, especially those on model organisms, highlighted that genes and genetic systems can evolve very rapidly.
Effects of exercise combined with caloric restriction on inflammatory cytokines
Authors: Reed Jennifer L. , De Souza Mary Jane , Williams Nancy I.
Published: October 2010

Chronic inflammation has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several chronic diseases, such as atherosclerosis and diabetes, as well as certain types of cancers. It has been suggested that circulating biomarkers for inflammation may be modified by exercise; however, few laboratory-based studies have been conducted in nonobese premenopausal women. The purpose of this investigation was to determine the impact of a 4-month exercise training and caloric-restriction intervention with the goal of weight loss on circulating biomarkers of inflammation in sedentary premenopausal women aged 25–40 years (weight, 57 ± 2 kg). Subjects were studied for 6 consecutive menstrual cycles: 1 Screening, 1 Baseline, then 4 interventions (Interventions 1–4). Supervised aerobic training, consisting primarily of treadmill running and elliptical machine exercise, was performed 4 times per week for 40–90 min at 79% ± 0.7% of maximal heart rate. Subjects also consumed 30% fewer calories vs. baseline (1863 ± 58 to 1428 ± 53 kcal·day–1(1 kcal = 4.186 kJ), p < 0.0001). Circulating inflammatory biomarkers, including adiponectin, high-sensitivity (hs) C-reactive protein (CRP), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), and leptin, as well as body composition, aerobic capacity, and energy balance, were measured before and after the intervention. Maximal aerobic capacity increased by 8.5 ± 1.7 mL·kg–1·min–1(p < 0.001) and body mass declined by an average of 3.7 ± 0.5 kg (p < 0.001). Significant reductions in IL-6 (0.39 ± 0.04 to 0.30 ± 0.03 pg·mL–1, p = 0.025), IFN-γ (0.58 ± 0.83 to 0.42 ± 0.64 pg·mL–1, p = 0.030), and leptin (13.18 ± 1.28 to 6.28 ± 0.71 pg·mL–1, p < 0.001) were detected in response to the intervention. No significant changes in adiponectin, hs-CRP, or TNF-α were found. Weight loss in response to exercise training and caloric restriction is effective in reducing inflammatory markers, specifically IL-6 and leptin.
Protein consumption following aerobic exercise increases whole-body protein turnover in older adults
Authors: Murphy Cheryl , Miller Benjamin F.
Published: October 2010

Research measuring whole-body protein turnover (WBPT) after both exercise and nutrition has generally focused on resistance exercise; however, there is a paucity of data regarding the effect of postaerobic exercise nutrition, especially in older adults. It is not known if postexercise protein feeding has a beneficial effect on protein turnover after low- to moderate-intensity exercise. We investigated whether consuming protein plus carbohydrate (PRO) immediately after an acute bout of aerobic exercise has an additive effect over carbohydrate alone (CHO) on WBPT in older individuals. Twelve healthy older adults (age, 59 ± 4 years) were studied on 2 separate occasions after 1 h of exercise at approximately 50% of maximal rate of oxygen uptake, followed by 4 h of recovery. Immediately following exercise, subjects ingested a CHO (60 g) or an isocaloric PRO beverage (40 g carbohydrate, 20 g whey protein). Whole-body protein metabolism was determined using [1-13C]leucine infusion (60 mg prime; 75 mg·h–1 continuous), and sampling blood and expired breath. Rates of whole-body leucine appearance and oxidation, and nonoxidative leucine disposal during the third and fourth hours of postexercise recovery were higher in the PRO group (2.51 ± 0.55, 0.78 ± 0.37, and 1.71 ± 0.44 µmol·kg–1·min–1, respectively) than in the CHO group (1.81 ± 0.27, 0.33 ± 0.14, and 1.47 ± 0.25 µmol·kg–1·min–1, respectively; p = 0.001). Our results indicate that consumption of a PRO beverage after aerobic exercise increased WBPT to a greater extent than a CHO beverage.
Effects of a highly palatable diet on lipid and glucose parameters, nitric oxide, and ectonucleotidases activity
Authors: Souza Carolina Guerini de , Böhmer Ana Elisa , Müller Alexandre Pastoris , Oses Jean Pierre , Viola Giordano Gübert , Lesczinski Daniel Neumann , Souza Débora Guerini de , Knorr Luísa , Moreira Júlia Dübois , Lhullier Francisco , Souza Diogo Onofre , Perry Marcos Luiz Santos
Published: October 2010

Obesity has reached epidemic proportions worldwide and is stimulated by the ready availability of food rich in fat and sugar (highly palatable diet). This type of diet increases the risks of obesity-associated pathologies, such as insulin resistance and cardiovascular disease. Nitric oxide, a potent endogenous vasodilator, is decreased in these pathologies, mostly as a result of insulin resistance. Ectonucleotidases are ecto and soluble enzymes that regulate the availability of the nucleotides ATP, ADP, and AMP and the nucleoside adenosine in the vascular system, thereby affecting vasoconstriction, vasodilatation, and platelet aggregation homeostasis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a highly palatable diet on serum lipid and glucose parameters, nitric oxide, and ectonucleotidase activity. Forty male Wistar rats were fed 1 of 2 diets for either 45 days or 4 months: standard chow (SC, n = 10) or a highly palatable diet enriched with sucrose (HP, n = 10). Body mass, visceral fat mass, glucose tolerance, cholesterol (total, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and non-HDL), serum triacylglycerol, liver triacylglycerol, and free glycerol were increased in the HP group after 45 days and after 4 months, whereas insulin levels were not different between the groups at either time. Furthermore, levels of nitric oxide metabolites and ATP, ADP, and AMP hydrolysis were significantly lower in the HP group (p < 0.05) after 4 months. In conclusion, the consumption of the HP diet for 4 months induced overall corporal and metabolic changes, and decreased nitric oxide metabolites and ectonucleotidase activity, thereby promoting an appropriate environment for the development of cardiovascular diseases, without apparent changes in insulin levels.
Influence of high-fat diet from differential dietary sources on bone mineral density, bone strength, and bone fatty acid composition in rats
Authors: Lau Beatrice Y. , Fajardo Val Andrew , McMeekin Lauren , Sacco Sandra M. , Ward Wendy E. , Roy Brian D. , Peters Sandra J. , LeBlanc Paul J.
Published: October 2010

Previous studies have suggested that high-fat diets adversely affect bone development. However, these studies included other dietary manipulations, including low calcium, folic acid, and fibre, and (or) high sucrose or cholesterol, and did not directly compare several common sources of dietary fat. Thus, the overall objective of this study was to investigate the effect of high-fat diets that differ in fat quality, representing diets high in saturated fatty acids (SFA), n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), or n-6 PUFA, on femur bone mineral density (BMD), strength, and fatty acid composition. Forty-day-old male Sprague–Dawley rats were maintained for 65 days on high-fat diets (20% by weight), containing coconut oil (SFA; n = 10), flaxseed oil (n-3 PUFA; n = 10), or safflower oil (n-6 PUFA; n = 11). Chow-fed rats (n = 10), at 105 days of age, were included to represent animals on a control diet. Rats fed high-fat diets had higher body weights than the chow-fed rats (p < 0.001). Among all high-fat groups, there were no differences in femur BMD (p > 0.05) or biomechanical strength properties (p > 0.05). Femurs of groups fed either the high n-3 or high n-6 PUFA diets were stronger (as measured by peak load) than those of the chow-fed group, after adjustment for significant differences in body weight (p = 0.001). As expected, the femur fatty acid profile reflected the fatty acid composition of the diet consumed. These results suggest that high-fat diets, containing high levels of PUFA in the form of flaxseed or safflower oil, have a positive effect on bone strength when fed to male rats 6 to 15 weeks of age.
Physiological effects of caffeine, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, and exercise in overweight and obese women
Authors: Smith Abbie E. , Lockwood Christopher M. , Moon Jordan R. , Kendall Kristina L. , Fukuda David H. , Tobkin Sarah E. , Cramer Joel T. , Stout Jeffrey R.
Published: October 2010

The aim of this study was to evaluate the combined effects of a 10-week exercise program with ingestion of caffeine and epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) on body composition, cardiovascular fitness, and strength in overweight and obese women. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled approach, overweight and obese women (n = 27) were randomly assigned to treatment groups with exercise (an active-supplementing group with exercise (EX-Act) and a placebo group with exercise (EX-PL)) or without exercise (an active-supplementing group without exercise (NEX-Act) and a placebo group without exercise (NEX-PL)). All participants consumed 1 drink per day for 10 weeks; EX-Act and EX-PL participated in a concurrent endurance and resistance training program. Changes in body composition were assessed using a 4-compartment model. Changes in muscle mass (MM) were evaluated using a DXA-derived appendicular lean–soft tissue equation. There was a significant time × treatment interaction for MM (p = 0.026) and total cholesterol (TC) (p = 0.047), and a significant time × training interaction for peak oxygen consumption (p = 0.046) and upper-body and lower-body strength (p < 0.05). Significant differences between the EX groups and NEX groups for percentage change in MM and peak oxygen consumption, and upper-body and lower-body strength, were revealed. Clinical markers for hepatic and renal function revealed no adverse effects. TC significantly decreased for the active-supplementing groups (EX-Act, NEX-Act). The current study suggests that implementing a caffeine–EGCG-containing drink prior to exercise may improve MM, fitness, and lipid profiles in overweight women.
Physiological responses and air consumption during simulated firefighting tasks in a subway system
Authors: Williams-Bell F. Michael , Boisseau Geoff , McGill John , Kostiuk Andrew , Hughson Richard L.
Published: October 2010

Professional firefighters (33 men, 3 women), ranging in age from 30 to 53 years, participated in a simulation of a subway system search and rescue while breathing from their self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). We tested the hypothesis that during this task, established by expert firefighters to be of moderate intensity, the rate of air consumption would exceed the capacity of a nominal 30-min cylinder. Oxygen uptake, carbon dioxide output, and air consumption were measured with a portable breath-by-breath gas exchange analysis system, which was fully integrated with the expired port of the SCBA. The task involved descending a flight of stairs, walking, performing a search and rescue, retreat walking, then ascending a single flight of stairs to a safe exit. This scenario required between 9:56 and 13:24 min:s (mean, 12:10 ± 1:10 min:s) to complete, with an average oxygen uptake of 24.3 ± 4.5 mL·kg–1·min–1 (47 ± 10 % peak oxygen uptake) and heart rate of 76% ± 7% of maximum. The highest energy requirement was during the final single-flight stair climb (30.4 ± 5.4 mL·kg–1·min–1). The average respiratory exchange ratio (carbon dioxide output/oxygen uptake) throughout the scenario was 0.95 ± 0.08, indicating a high carbon dioxide output for a relatively moderate average energy requirement. Air consumption from the nominal “30-min” cylinder averaged 51% (range, 26%–68%); however, extrapolation of these rates of consumption suggested that the low-air alarm, signalling that only 25% of the air remains, would have occurred as early as 11 min for an individual with the highest rate of air consumption, and at 16 min for the group average. These data suggest that even the moderate physical demands of walking combined with search and rescue while wearing full protective gear and breathing through the SCBA impose considerable physiological strain on professional firefighters. As well, the rate of air consumption in these tasks classed as moderate, compared with high-rise firefighting, would have depleted the air supply well before the nominal time used to describe the cylinders.
Relationship of potassium ions and blood lactate to ventilation during exercise
Authors: McMurray Robert G. , Tenan Matthew S.
Published: October 2010

Ventilatory control during exercise is a complex network of neural and humoral signals. One humoral input that has received little recent attention in the exercise literature is potassium ions [K+]. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between [K+] and ventilation during an incremental cycle test and to determine if the relationship between [K+] and ventilation differs when blood lactate [lac–] is manipulated. Eight experienced triathletes (4 of each sex) completed 2 incremental, progressive (5-min stages) cycle tests to volitional fatigue: 1 with normal glycogen stores and 1 with reduced glycogen. Minute ventilation was measured during the final minute of each stage, and blood [lac–] and [K+] were measured at the end of each exercise stage. Minute ventilation and [K+] increased with exercise intensity and were similar between trials (p > 0.5), despite lower [lac–] during the reduced-glycogen trial. The concordance correlations (Rc) between [lac–] and minute ventilation were stronger for both trials (Rc = ~0.88–0.96), but the slopes of the relationships were different than the relationships between [K+] and minute ventilation (Rc = ~0.76–0.89). The slope of the relationship between [lac–] and minute ventilation was not as steep during the reduced-glycogen trial, compared with the normal trial (p = 0.002). Conversely, the slope of the relationships between [K+] and minute ventilation did not change between trials (p = 0.454). The consistent relationship of minute ventilation and blood [K+] during exercise suggests a role for this ion in the control of ventilation during exercise. Conversely, the inconsistent relationship between blood lactate and ventilation brings into question the importance of the relationship between lactate and ventilation during exercise.
Development of a vehicle image-tracking system based on a long-distance detection algorithm
Authors: Oh Jutaek , Min Joonyoung , Choi Eunsoo
Published: October 2010

If image-processing systems are developed to track individual vehicles, and thus, trace vehicle trajectories, many existing transportation models will benefit from more detailed information on individual vehicles. Furthermore, the additional information that can be obtained from the vehicle trajectories will improve incident detection by identifying lane change maneuvers and acceleration / deceleration patterns. Unlike human vision, however, image-processing cameras have difficulty in recognizing vehicle movements within a long detection zone because the camera operators need to zoom in to recognize objects. As a result, vehicle tracking with a single camera relies on short-distance detection. This paper describes the methodology developed for monitoring individual vehicle trajectories based on image processing. To improve traffic flow surveillance, a long-distance tracking algorithm was developed with multiple closed-circuit television cameras. The algorithm can recognize individual vehicle maneuvers, and thereby increases the effectiveness of the incident detection process.
Laboratory investigation of engineering properties of rubberized asphalt mixtures containing reclaimed asphalt pavement
Authors: Xiao Feipeng , Amirkhanian Serji , Putman Bradley , Shen Junan
Published: October 2010

An improved understanding of the rheological and engineering properties of a rubberized asphalt concrete (RAC) pavement that contains reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) is important to stimulating the use of these recycled and by-product materials in asphalt mixtures. The uses of RAP and rubberized asphalt in the past have proven to be economical, environmentally sound, and effective in hot mix asphalt (HMA) mixtures across the US and the world. The objective of this research was to investigate the binder and mixture performance characteristics of these modified asphalt mixtures through a series of laboratory tests to evaluate properties such as the fatigue factor G*sinδ, rutting resistance, resilient modulus, and fatigue life. The results of the experiments indicated that the use of RAP and crumb rubber in HMA can effectively improve the engineering properties of these mixes.
Supporting a drinking water contaminant warning system using the adenosine triphosphate test
Authors: Ghazali Mirnader , McBean Edward A. , Whalen Pat , Journal Kelvin
Published: October 2010

A contaminant warning system (CWS) with the capability to detect aberrations in drinking water in real-time or near real-time represents significant value for protection of consumers from accidental or intentional contamination of drinking water. The capabilities of a two-tier CWS are examined, the first including nonpurgeable organic carbon (NPOC), free chlorine, turbidity, pH, and conductivity, followed by a confirmatory adenosine triphosphate (ATP) analysis, to control false positives. The utility of the confirmatory analysis is improved by use of a continuous ultrafiltration system, which improves the detection and the correlation between the concentration of Escherichia coli in the sample and measured ATP. The sample was concentrated one hundredfold in 22 min increasing the ATP value of the sample from 980 to 9.8 × 104 CFU/mL as microbial equivalents. The two-tier system is shown to be a successful method for confirmation of biological contamination in near real-time, while controlling false positives and (or) false negatives.
Tetracycline degradation by ozonation, and evaluation of biodegradability and toxicity of ozonation byproductsPaper submitted to the Journal of Environmental Engineering and Science.
Authors: Wu Jiguo , Jiang Yunxia , Zha Longying , Ye Zhuoming , Zhou Zhifeng , Ye Jufeng , Zhou Hongwei
Published: October 2010

Tetracycline was exposed to ozone by bubbling at different pH levels, and the acute toxicity of ozonation byproducts was tested by luminescent bacteria (Vibrio qinghaiensis sp.-Q67). Residual tetracycline in the solutions was detected by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The results indicated that tetracycline was immediately degraded by ozonation and the degradation was favored at higher pH. Tetracycline (20 mg L–1) was completely degraded after 5 min of ozonation. However, total organic carbon (TOC) hardly decreased even though the ozonation time was extended to 40 min, suggesting that the ozonation process could not mineralize tetracycline. The luminescent bacteria assay indicated that the toxicity of the tetracycline solution was changed after ozonation. Chemical oxygen demand (COD) dropped by 15%, and the BOD5/COD ratio increased from 0.09 to 0.26, suggesting that the biodegradability of tetracycline was enhanced after 20 min of ozonation treatment.
Pectin lyase production by recombinant Penicillium griseoroseum strain 105
Authors: Cardoso Patrícia Gomes , Teixeira Janaina Aparecida , de Queiroz Marisa Vieira , de Araújo Elza Fernandes
Published: October 2010

Recombinant Penicillium griseoroseum strain 105 overproduces an extracellular pectin lyase (PL) under the transcriptional control of the strong gpdA promoter of Aspergillus nidulans . Our aim was to evaluate PL production by recombinant P. griseoroseum strain 105 in submerged fermentation system bioreactors BioFloIII and BioFloIV using 2 or 10 L working volumes under different growth conditions and to analyze the production of cellulase, polygalacturonase, pectin methylesterase, and protease. PL overproduction by recombinant P. griseoroseum strain 105 was 112 times higher than that of P. griseoroseum PG63 grown in sugarcane juice. Cellulases and proteases were not detected in the culture filtrate, and evaluation for extracellular proteins in the culture medium by SDS–PAGE showed the presence of a 36 kDa predominant band, similar to the molecular mass estimated from the nucleotide sequence of plg1 gene for PL of P. griseoroseum strain 105. This recombinant strain provides the advantage of PL production, which predominates over other extracellular proteins usually present in most commercial pectinase preparations, using sugarcane juice as a substrate of low cost.
Identification of VEGF receptor-2 tyrosine phosphorylation sites involved in VEGF-mediated endothelial platelet-activating factor synthesis
Authors: Rechka Abdennebi , Neagoe Paul-Eduard , Gratton Jean-Philippe , Sirois Martin G.
Published: October 2010

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-mediated inflammation requires the synthesis of acute platelet-activating factor (PAF) by endothelial cells (ECs). We previously reported that VEGF-mediated PAF synthesis involves the activation of the homodimeric tyrosine kinase receptor VEGFR-2/R-2, leading to the recruitment of p38 and p42/p44 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and activation of secreted group V phospholipase A2 (sPLA2-V). We have also reported that VEGF-A165-mediated prostacyclin (PGI2) synthesis requires VEGFR-1/R-2 heterodimeric receptor activation. Selective activation of VEGF receptors can coordinate the synthesis of pro-PAF and anti-PGI2 inflammatory factors. It is unknown which VEGFR-2 tyrosine phosphorylation site(s) contribute(s) to PAF synthesis. Bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAECs) were transfected with pcDNA vectors encoding for native VEGF receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) cDNA or VEGFR-2 cDNA containing tyrosine phosphorylation sites mutated into phenylalanine residues (Y801F, Y1059F, Y1175F, Y1214F); an empty pcDNA vector was used as a negative control. Treatment of pcDNA-transfected BAECs with VEGF (10−9 mol/L) for 15 min increased PAF synthesis by 180%. In BAECs transfected with pcDNA vectors encoding mutated Y801F, Y1059F, Y1175F, or Y1214F VEGFR-2 cDNA, we observed a marked reduction of VEGF-mediated PAF synthesis by 38%, 46%, 69%, and 31%, respectively, compared with BAECs transfected with pcDNA vector encoding VEGFR-2 cDNA. Our data provide a novel insight as to the mechanisms by which VEGF promotes PAF synthesis.
Hair cortisol concentration as a noninvasive measure of long-term stress in free-ranging grizzly bears (Ursus arctos): considerations with implications for other wildlife
Authors: Macbeth B. J. , Cattet M.R.L. , Stenhouse G. B. , Gibeau M. L. , Janz D. M.
Published: October 2010

Human-caused landscape change negatively affects the sustainability of many wildlife populations. In Alberta, Canada, grizzly bears ( Ursus arctos L., 1758) live in one of the most populated and heavily exploited landscapes in which the species survives. Long-term physiological stress in individual animals may be the predominant mechanism linking landscape change with impaired wildlife population health. Hair cortisol concentration has been validated as a biomarker of long-term stress in humans and domestic animals; however, limited work has examined factors that may affect its measurement or interpretation. We have measured cortisol in as few as five guard hairs of a grizzly bear and have identified factors influencing hair cortisol concentration in this species. Hair cortisol varies with hair type, body region, and capture method. It is not influenced by colour, age, sex, environmental exposure (18 days), or prolonged laboratory storage (>1 year) and does not vary along the length of the hair shaft. Recommendations for prudent use of hair cortisol analysis in grizzly bears are discussed with implications for the development of hair cortisol concentration as a tool to monitor long-term stress in other wildlife.
Habitat selection by parturient elk (Cervus elaphus) in agricultural and forested landscapes
Authors: Brook Ryan K.
Published: October 2010

I examined the home range and habitat selection of 146 radio-collared female elk ( Cervus elaphus L., 1758) from 2002 to 2005 during the calving period (15 May to 24 June). I determined the proportion of home ranges of parturient cow elk during the calving period and the proportion of birthing sites of elk that were in either forested protected areas or the adjacent fragmented agriculture-dominated matrix in southwestern Manitoba, Canada. Overall, 73% of the minimum convex polygon home ranges were entirely within a protected area, 6% were only on farmland, and 21% included both. Home ranges including farmland and protected area (mean = 17.9 km2) were 3.8 times larger than those entirely inside a protected area (mean = 4.7 km2) or only on farmland (mean = 4.5 km2) (U = –2.79, P = 0.005). Female elk remaining solely in protected areas selected deciduous and mixedwood forest, marsh and fen, and water at the scale of the home range. Elk exclusively on farmland selected forage crops only. At the scale of the birthing site, females on farmland and those in protected areas selected only deciduous forest, and both types avoided agricultural cropland and marsh and fen. Identification of calving habitat will allow resource managers to manage bovine tuberculosis in the population more effectively.