bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The palatability of the eggs of birds: mainly based upon observations of an Egg Panel
Authors: Cott Hugh B.
Published: May 2010

The paper contains the results of an investigation of the relative palatability of the eggs of 212 species of birds, belonging to twenty‐five orders, as determined by members of an Egg Panel, Low Temperature Research Station, Cambridge, during the years 1946 to 1951. The method of assessment has been generally similar to that hitherto used in the routine examination of fowls' eggs. Each sample, identified by a number but not named, and tested in the form of a scramble, is awarded a numerical score for general palatability, on a scale ranging from 10.0 (ideal) to 2.0 (inedible). Evidence is given of the reliability of the results obtained.

Observations on the several samples also include qualitative evaluation of flavours, descriptions of texture, and measurements of the colour both of the fresh yolk and of the scramble, together with data relating to shell‐coloration, egg sizes and weights. Also included in the survey are accessory reports on egg‐palatability, obtained from both scattered published sources and from replies by correspondents. Thus an attempt has been made to collect in a single paper what is known of an aspect of ornithology that has not before received systematic investigation.
A new species of Raillietiella, a pentastomid from the Bearded Lizard, Amphibolurus barbatus (Cuv.)
Authors: Mahon J.
Published: May 2010

Summary.

A new species of Raillietiella, the first to be recorded from the family Agamidae or from an Australian host, is described.
The genus Iphiscius Berl. (Acarina‐Laelaptidae)
Authors: Evans G. Owen
Published: May 2010

Summary.

A description is given of the female and the previously unknown male of Seius degenerans Berl., 1889. This species is the type‐species of the genus Iphiseius Berl., 1921. A comparison is made of the genera Iphiseius and Typhlodromus Scheuten. The former is transferred from the subfamily Podocininae to the subfamily Phytoseiinae.
Size and reproduction in Daphnia magna (Crustacea: Cladocera)
Authors: Green J.
Published: May 2010

Summary.

 In natural populations parthenogenetic egg production in Daphnia magna Straus is directly related to size.

 Previous workers have shown that the number of parthenogenetic eggs produced during the life of a female increases in the early broods and decreases in later broods.

 Egg production and size are positively correlated in the first adult instar, both under constant conditions and with varying food.

 The size of the young liberated varies with maternal age, the third brood consisting of young of a larger average size than earlier or later broods.

 The initial size of the young liberated influences the instar in which maturity is reached.

 The probable effects of maternal age on growth, maturation and longevity of the young are discussed.
The fossil carnivores of the Transvaal caves. The Hyaenidae of Kromdraai
Authors: Ewer R. F.
Published: May 2010

Summary.

A brief account of the Transvaal fossiliferous deposits is given. It is noted that the Kromdraai “associated” fauna may not be contemporaneous with the Kromdraai australopithecine, Paranthropus robustus.

The hyaenids occurring in the Kromdraai deposit are described; additional details of Crocuta spelaea capensis Broom are given, and two new species, Crocuta ultra and Hyaena bellax are described.

It is considered that the damaged mandible described by Broom (1939) as possibly belonging to Hyaena hyaena cannot be accepted as a reliable record of the occurrence of this species in the Kromdraai deposit.
Causes of variation in the haemoglobin content of Daphnia (Crustacea: Cladocera) in nature
Authors: Chandler Ann
Published: May 2010

Summary.

 The haemoglobin content of Daphnia in the ponds studied was found to vary inversely with the oxygen concentration in the water, but not to be proportional to the iron content of the water.

 In six ponds Daphnia was found to have a greater haemoglobin concentration in winter than in summer, whereas in one body of water the haemoglobin concentration was greater in summer than in winter.

 Haemoglobin may be more concentrated in the blood of one pond‐dwelling species of Daphnia than of another species in the same water.
On Mycophilus roseus Hesse, and other notodelphyoid copepods from Strangford Lough, Co. Down
Authors: Gotto R. V.
Published: May 2010

The taxonomic position of the notodelphyoid copepod Mycophilus roseus Hesse is discussed and an account is given of its occurrence and general biology in Strangford Lough, Co. Down, with notes on the developmental stages. It has been demonstrated that a difference in external form distinguishes adult females inhabiting Botrylloides leachi (Savigny) from those found in Botryllus schlosseri (Pallas). While not discounting the possibility that this divergence is of a specific or subspecific nature, it is suggested that M. roseus exists in two host‐specific “biological forms”.

The occurrence is noted in Strangford Lough of nine other notodelphyoid species, five of which are new to the British fauna.
On the development of the frog, Leiopelma hochstetteri Fitzinger
Authors: Stephenson N. G.
Published: May 2010

Summary.

The development of the chondrocranium and visceral arches of Leiopelma hochstetteri Fitzinger is described.

The more important, basic developmental features of the genus, which were first noted in L. archeyi Turbott, are confirmed, while specific differences are indicated.

Additional evidence for the theory (Stephenson, 1951 a) of the hyoid nature of the basal connexion between the quadrate and the neurocranium in amphibia is presented and discussed.
The head of the frog, Leiopelma hamiltoni McCulloch
Authors: Stephenson Elsie M.
Published: May 2010

Summary.

The cranial anatomy of the rare Stephens Island frog, Leiopelma hamiltoni, is compared with that of the other two species, L. hochstetteri and L. archeyi. For the most part it agrees closely with the detailed description previously given for these latter species. Although L. hamiltoni and L. archeyi exhibit considerable similarity in external appearance and live under more or less comparable habitat conditions, they show certain internal differences in head anatomy. Of eight characters known to be constant specific differences between L. archeyi and L. hochstetteri, L. hamiltoni agrees with L. archeyi in five and with L. hochstetteri in three.
The pattern of bone fusion in the equine metacarpus and metatarsus
Authors: Mills H. D.
Published: May 2010

Summary.

 The order of bony fusion in the metacarpus and metatarsus of the modern Equidae has been investigated in a series of fifty‐one specimens.

 Osseous fusion of the metacarpals and metatarsals frequently occurs without the formation of pathological exostoses. This process, although common in domesticated horses, does not invariably occur with advancing age, and it cannot always be distinguished from the final results of “splints”.

 Fusion of a metacarpal precedes fusion of the corresponding metatarsal.

 Fusion of the second and fourth metacarpals and metatarsals generally follows a preaxial to postaxial sequence.
The fossil carnivores of the Transvaal caves. The Hyaenidae, other than Lycyaena, of Swartkrans and Sterkfontein
Authors: Ewer R. F.
Published: May 2010

Summary.

A number of fossil hyaenids from the Swartkrans deposit are described, comprising:

 The skull mentioned by Broom (Broom & Robinson, 1952) and considered by him to belong to a species of Hyaenictis. Reasons are given for concluding that reference to that genus is incorrect and that this specimen must be placed in the genus Leecyaena Young & Liu. It is accordingly named Leecyaena forfex sp. n.

 A new species of Crocuta, C. venustula, allied to Crocuta ultra Ewer.

 A new subspecies of Hyaena brunnea Thunb., H. brunnea dispar.

 A new subspecies of Crocuta crocuta (Erxl.), C. crocuta angella.

Some hyaenid remains from the Sterkfontein Type Site, too incomplete for definite identification, are also described. These include a species of Hyaena, it trifle larger than the living H. brunnea, and a species of Crocuta, possibly identical with C. spelaea (Goldf.). The latter is very lightly fossilized and appears to be of more recent date than the rest of the material from the Sterkfontein Type Site.
The fossil carnivores of the Transvaal caves. The Lycyaenas of Sterkfontein and Swartkrans, together with some general considerations of the Transvaal fossil Hyaenids
Authors: Ewer R. F.
Published: May 2010

Summary.

Two further specimens of Lycyaena silberbergi Broom have been found, one from the Sterkfontein Type Site and the other from Swartkrans. These include regions of the mandible anterior to what was present in Broom's type specimen, and permit the addition of some further details of the structure of this species.

A new species, Lycyaena nitidula, is described from Swartkrans. One fragment from the Sterkfontein Type Site probably also belongs to this species.

All the species of hyaenid at present known from the three sites, Kromdraai, Swartkrans and the Sterkfontein Type Site are tabulated. Their relationships to other hyaenids are discussed, and their implications as to the relative and absolute dates of the three deposits are considered. It is concluded that of the three deposits the Sterkfontein Type Site is the oldest, separated by only a short time interval from Swartkrans, with Kromdraai later still and separated from Swartkrans by a rather longer time interval. Kromdraai is estimated to be of early Pleistocene age, and Swartkrans and the Sterkfontein Type Site are considered to belong to the top of the upper Pliocene.
The structure and function of the British Pholadidae (Rock‐Boring Lamellibranchia)
Authors: Purchon R. D.
Published: May 2010

Summary.

A detailed investigation has been made into the structure of the principal organ systems and the ciliary mechanisms of the mantle cavity and of the interior of the stomach, in the five British species of Pholadidae (Lamellibranchia).

Tabulations have been made of the features characteristic of themajorityof British Pholadidae.

In the Pholadidae two anatomical features were noted, which may ultimately be of systematic value: –

the presence of an accessory visceral ganglion.

the presence of an appendix on the side of the stomach.

It was shown that the appendix of the Pholadidae was homologous with the postero‐dorsal caecum of the Tellinacea, and probably also with the wood‐storing caecum of the Teredinidae and ofXylophaga.

InXylophaga dorsalis, the absence of a shell apophysis is primitive, and in a number of the Pholadidae a ligament is present. It was concluded that the characteristic (but not diagnostic) features of the Adesmacea may have evolvedprogressivelyin response to the assumption of a rock‐boring habit, and that these characteristics may therefore be lacking in certain congeners which diverged at an early stage from the main stock of the Adesmacea.

It is therefore suggested that careful anatomical comparisons should be made between the Pholadidae and other rock‐boring genera such asGastrochaena, to investigate the possibility that such genera might be early offshoots from the parent stock of the Adesmacea.

Among the burrowing Lamellibranchia various genera show similarities with the Pholadidae, which could be regarded as pre‐adaptive in nature towards the rock‐boring mode of life.

It was found that the cilia in the proximal oral groove of the Pholadidae were typically inactive under experimental conditions. Various reasons for this ciliary inactivity have been offered.

It was concluded that the ciliary mechanisms in the stomachs of all five species here considered are primarily concerned with preventing particles from entering the ducts of the digestive diverticula.

It was suggested that, most particles having been eliminated from the stomach, the stomach contents are then injected or sucked into the digestive diverticula by volumetric changes brought about primarily by movements of the shell valves and foot, and perhaps by muscles in the stomach wall.

The progressive treatment of the stomach contents as outlined above would be assisted by intermittent refusal of food in the proximal oral groove.
Photoperiodism and the testicular refractory period in the mallard
Authors: Lofts B. , Coombs C. J. F.
Published: May 2010

The effects of winter daylengths on the duration of pituitary refractoriness to photostimulation are described.

The mallard, as do probably all wild avian species, enters a postnuptial refractory period during which the gonads display no gametogenesis and the anterior pituitary becomes seasonally unresponsive to photostimulation so far as gonadotrophin secretion is concerned. This phase lasts about three months and is an important synchronizer of the breeding cycles.

Refractory specimens kept under a summer daylength of 16.5 hours remain unresponsive to photostimulation at a time when birds in their natural environment are emerging from their refractory period. When, however, such birds are subjected to a period of eight hours daylengths there is a shortening of the refractory phase and they display a gonadotrophic response to photostimulation.

There is some indication that a phase of winter daylengths is not, however, a necessary pre‐requisite for birds to be capable of emerging from the refractory period and recovering some degree of spermatogenetic activity. Thus, even in some specimens kept under the long photoperiods there were spermatogonia multiplications occurring when the experiment was terminated.
The comparative morphology of the osteocranium and the Weberian apparatus of Tachysuridae (Pisces : Siluroidei)
Authors: Tilak Raj
Published: May 2010

The morphology of the osteocranium and the Weberian apparatus of 14 representatives of Tachysuridae (= Ariidae) has been described and compared. It has been shown that these features are characteristic of the family Tachysuridae (= Ariidae) and can also distinguish the genera and the species of this family. A key to the intergeneric and interspecific characters has been provided. A few characters of morphological interest have been recorded. It has been shown that the erection of different genera for some species of the genusTachysurus(=Arius) by Munro (1955) is arbitrary and lacks support from morphology. The features of the oesteocranium and the Weberian apparatus support the fact that Tachysuridae are not primitive siluroids; they are at least more specialized than Siluridae, Plotosidae, and Bagridae. The advanced features of Tachysuridae are described. The morphological relationship of the superficial bone and its associated trough‐like bony structure with the swim‐bladder show that these bony formations develop from the tunica externa of the latter.
Abundance, vertical distribution and taxonomy of calanoid copepods at selected stations in the northeast Atlantic
Authors: Grice George D. , Hulsemann Kuni
Published: May 2010

An analysis is made of the abundance, vertical occurrence and taxonomy of calanoid copepods from 29 samples. The samples were obtained in the northeast Atlantic between approximately 30° and 60°N and at intervals from the surface to a depth of 5000 m.

The zooplankton is found to be more abundant in the upper 1000 m of the water column and below 2000 m the concentration is extremely small. The mean size of adult copopods is greater between 500 and 2000 m than in other depth intervals and the greatest number of species occurs in the upper 1000 m. Two new genera, 17 new species and the previously unknown males of three species are described and illustrated. Twenty‐one other species are discussed and five species are reported for the first time from the Atlantic Ocean.
A trial with the projectile‐syringe rifle to capture wild red deer on Rhum
Authors: Jewell P. A. , Lowe V. P. W.
Published: May 2010

A brief account is given of a field trial to immobilize wild red deer on the island of Rhum. The difficulties of estimating the weight of a wild animal, and the range and technical limitations of the apparatus are discussed. A number of deer were satisfactorily caught and marked and the potentialities of the method are described.
The heart of the Tuatara Sphenodon punctatus
Authors: Simons J. R.
Published: May 2010

A description of the heart of Sphenodon punctatus (Gray) based on gross dissection, serial sections and wax plate reconstruction of six specimens is given. They were found to resemble most the hearts of lacertilian reptiles. The bulbar region is only partially absorbed into the ventricle. A primary, oblique septum is present, dividing the cavity of the ventricle into a cavum dorsale and a cavum ventrale. Both of these have the same relationship to the various arterial trunks as in other non‐crocodilian reptiles. Of the numerous muscle trabeculae and ridges in the cuvum dorsale none is developed to a greater extent than the others. There is, therefore, no secondary septum in the ventricle. The coronary arteries originate from the left systemic arch to supply the bulbus and ventricle. A gubernaculum cordis is not always present but, if it is, apical coronary vessels pass through it to the ventricle.

Consideration of the comparative anatomy of the heart of Sphenodon and those of other existing reptiles leads to the conclusion that it is the most primitive.
The larval development of Oithonina nana
Authors: Haq S. M.
Published: May 2010

The larval development of Oithonina nana (Giesbrecht) is described, noting how this differs from the development of Oithona similis and O. spinirostris. A key is given to its naupliar stages. The descriptions are based on individuals hatched and reared in the laboratory; in these experiments the duration of the life cycle has been shown to be dependent on temperature.
Bcl‐2 is a negative regulator of interleukin‐1β secretion in murine macrophages in pharmacological‐induced apoptosis
Authors: Escandell JM , Recio MC , Giner RM , Máñez S , Ríos JL
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Cucurbitacin R, a natural anti‐inflammatory product, has been shown to exhibit activity against both adjuvant‐induced arthritis and delayed‐type hypersensitivity reactions induced by various agents. Previous studies have demonstrated that the effects of cucurbitacin R stem from its inhibition of both cytokine production and lymphocyte proliferation.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACHES

Effects of cucurbitacin R were investigated on lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Cell cycle evolution was analysed by flow cytometry, detection of apoptosis by DNA ladder, Bcl‐2, p21, p53, Bax, cleaved caspase‐1 (p10), caspase‐9, and caspase‐3, cleaved caspase (p17) and interleukin‐1β detection was followed by Western blot analysis and mRNA expression with quantitative real time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR).

KEY RESULTS

Cucurbitacin R was found to induce apoptosis in lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages through the inhibition of Bcl‐2 expression, which regulates pro‐inflammatory caspase‐1 activation and interleukin‐1β release. Also, cucurbitacin R arrested the cell cycle in the G2/M phase and increased the subG0 population in lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Moreover, it increased the expression of proteins p53 and p21, down‐regulated the expression of Bcl‐2, activated the activity of caspase‐1 and augmented the production of interleukin‐1β. Finally, the transfection of RAW 264.7 macrophages with a Bcl‐2 expression plasmid produced the inhibition of apoptosis and caspase‐1 activation/interleukin‐1β release induced by cucurbitacin R in RAW 264.7 cells.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Taken together, these results point to a new apoptotic process in which interleukin‐1β release is directly regulated by Bcl‐2 status; this contributes to the evidence that apoptotic processes do not induce inflammation.
Exposing rodents to a combination of tobacco smoke and lipopolysaccharide results in an exaggerated inflammatory response in the lung
Authors: Hardaker EL , Freeman MS , Dale N , Bahra P , Raza F , Banner KH , Poll C
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which are often associated with respiratory infections, are defined as a worsening of symptoms that require a change in medication. Exacerbations are characterized by a reduction in lung function, quality of life and are associated with increased pro‐inflammatory mediators in the lung. Our aim was to develop an animal model to mimic aspects of this exaggerated inflammatory response by combining key etiological factors, tobacco smoke (TS) and bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Rats were exposed to TS for 30 min twice a day for 2 days. On day 3 animals were exposed to LPS for 30 min followed by exposure to TS 5 h later. Inflammation, mucus and lung function were assessed 24 h after LPS.

KEY RESULTS

Neutrophils, mucus, oedema and cytotoxicity in lung and/or bronchoalveolar lavage was increased in animals exposed to combined LPS and TS, compared with either stimulus alone. Lung function was impaired in animals exposed to combined LPS and TS. Inflammatory cells, oedema and mucus were unaffected by pretreatment with the corticosteroid, budesonide, but were reduced by the phosphodiesterase 4 selective inhibitor roflumilast. Additionally, lung function was improved by roflumilast.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

We have established an in vivo model mimicking characteristic features of acute exacerbations of COPD including lung function decline and increased lung inflammation. This model may be useful to investigate molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying such exacerbations, to identify new targets and to discover novel therapeutic agents.
Effect of the Itoactivator NS5806 on cloned Kv4 channels depends on the accessory protein KChIP2
Authors: Lundby A , Jespersen T , Schmitt N , Grunnet M , Olesen S‐P , Cordeiro JM , Calloe K
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The compound NS5806 increases the transient outward current (Ito) in canine ventricular cardiomyocytes and slows current decay. In human and canine ventricle, Itois thought to be mediated by KV4.3 and various ancillary proteins, yet, the exact subunit composition of Itochannels is still debated. Here we characterize the effect of NS5806 on heterologously expressed putative Itochannel subunits and other potassium channels.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Cloned KV4 channels were co‐expressed with KChIP2, DPP6, DPP10, KCNE2, KCNE3 and KV1.4 inXenopus laevisoocytes or CHO‐K1 cells.

KEY RESULTS

NS5806 increased KV4.3/KChIP2 peak current amplitudes with an EC50of 5.3 ± 1.5µM and significantly slowed current decay. KCNE2, KCNE3, DPP6 and DPP10 modulated KV4.3 currents and the response to NS5806, but current decay was slowed only in complexes containing KChIP2. The effect of NS5806 on KV4.2 was similar to that on KV4.3, and current decay was only slowed in presence of KChIP2. However, for KV4.1, the slowing of current decay by NS5806 was independent of KChIP2. KV1.4 was strongly inhibited by 10 µM NS5806 and KV1.5 was inhibited to a smaller extent. Effects of NS5806 on kinetics of currents generated by KV4.3/KChIP2/DPP6 with KV1.4 in oocytes could reproduce those on cardiac Itoin canine ventricular myocytes. KV7.1, KV11.1 and Kir2 currents were unaffected by NS5806.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

NS5806 modulated KV4 channel gating depending on the presence of KChIP2, suggesting that NS5806 can potentially be used to address the molecular composition as well as the physiological role of cardiac Ito.
Valerenic acid derivatives as novel subunit‐selective GABAAreceptor ligands –in vitroandin vivocharacterization
Authors: Khom S , Strommer B , Ramharter J , Schwarz T , Schwarzer C , Erker T , Ecker GF , Mulzer J , Hering S
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSESubunit‐specific modulators of γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) type A (GABAA) receptors can help to assess the physiological function of receptors with different subunit composition and also provide the basis for the development of new drugs. Valerenic acid (VA) was recently identified as a β2/3subunit‐specific modulator of GABAAreceptors with anxiolytic potential. The aim of the present study was to generate VA derivatives as novel GABAAreceptor modulators and to gain insight into the structure–activity relation of this molecule.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACHThe carboxyl group of VA was substituted by an uncharged amide or amides with different chain length. Modulation of GABAAreceptors composed of different subunit compositions by the VA derivatives was studied inXenopusoocytes by means of the two‐microelectrode voltage‐clamp technique. Half‐maximal stimulation of GABA‐induced chloride currents (IGABA) through GABAAreceptors (EC50) and efficacies (maximal stimulation ofIGABA) were estimated. Anxiolytic activity of the VA derivatives was studied in mice, applying the elevated plus maze test.

KEY RESULTSValerenic acid amide (VA‐A) displayed the highest efficacy (more than twofold greaterIGABAenhancement than VA) and highest potency (EC50= 13.7 ± 2.3 µM) on α1β3receptors. Higher efficacy and potency of VA‐A were also observed on α1β2γ2sand α3β3γ2sreceptors. Anxiolytic effects were most pronounced for VA‐A.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONSValerenic acid derivatives with higher efficacy and affinity can be generated. Greaterin vitroaction of the amide derivative correlated with a more pronounced anxiolytic effectin vivo. The data give further confidence in targeting β3subunit containing GABAAreceptors for development of anxiolytics.
Enhanced oxidative stress and increased mitochondrial mass during Efavirenz‐induced apoptosis in human hepatic cells
Authors: Apostolova N , Gomez‐Sucerquia LJ , Moran A , Alvarez A , Blas‐Garcia A , Esplugues JV
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Efavirenz (EFV) is widely used in the treatment of HIV‐1 infection. Though highly efficient, there is growing concern about EFV‐related side effects, the molecular basis of which remains elusive.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

In vitro studies were performed to address the effect of clinically relevant concentrations of EFV (10, 25 and 50 µM) on human hepatic cells.

KEY RESULTS

Cellular proliferation and viability were reduced in a concentration‐dependent manner. Analyses of the cell cycle and several cell death parameters (chromatin condensation, phosphatidylserine exteriorization, mitochondrial proapoptotic protein translocation and caspase activation) revealed that EFV triggered apoptosis via the intrinsic pathway. In addition, EFV directly affected mitochondrial function in a reversible manner, inducing a decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential and an increase in mitochondrial superoxide production, followed by a reduction in cellular glutathione content. The rapidity of these actions rules out any involvement of mitochondrial DNA replication, which, until now, was thought to be the main mechanism of mitochondrial toxicity of antiretroviral drugs. Importantly, we also observed an increase in mitochondrial mass, manifested as an elevated cardiolipin content and enhanced expression of mitochondrial proteins, which was not paralleled by an increase in the mtDNA/nuclear DNA copy number ratio. The toxic effect of EFV was partially reversed by antioxidant pretreatment, which suggests ROS generation is involved in this effect.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

Clinically relevant concentrations of EFV were shown to be mitotoxic in human hepatic cells in vitro, which may be pertinent to the understanding of the hepatotoxicity associated with this drug.
Accuracy of Monoclonal Stool Tests for Determining Cure of Helicobacter pylori Infection After Treatment
Authors: Calvet Xavier , Lario Sergio , Ramírez‐Lázaro María José , Montserrat Antònia , Quesada Mariela , Reeves Lynsey , Masters Helen , Suárez‐Lamas David , Gallach Marta , Miquel Mireia , Martínez‐Bauer Eva , Sanfeliu Isabel , Segura Ferran
Published: May 2010

Background:  Studies comparing new monoclonal fecal tests for evaluating cure of Helicobacter pylori infection after treatment are scarce. The objective was to compare the diagnostic accuracy of three monoclonal stool tests: two rapid in‐office tools –RAPID Hp StAR and ImmunoCard STAT! HpSA – and an EIA test – Amplified IDEIA Hp StAR.

Materials and methods:  Diagnostic reliability of the three tests was evaluated in 88 patients at least 8 weeks after H. pylori treatment. Readings of immunochromatographic tests were performed by two different observers. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values and 95% confidence intervals were calculated.

Results:  All tests presented similar performance for post‐eradication testing. Sensitivity for detecting persistent infection was 100% for both Amplified IDEIA and RAPID Hp StAR and 90% for ImmunoCard STAT! HpSA. Respective specificities were 94.9%, 92.3–93.6% and 94.9%. Negative predictive values were very high (100%, 100% and 98.7% respectively). But positive predictive values were lower, ranging from 62.5 to 71.4%.

Conclusion:  All monoclonal fecal tests in this series presented similar performance in the post‐treatment setting. A negative test after treatment adequately predicted cure of the infection. However, nearly a third of tests were false positive, showing a poor predictive yield for persistent infection.
The Versatility of Helicobacter pylori CagA Effector Protein Functions: The Master Key Hypothesis
Authors: Backert Steffen , Tegtmeyer Nicole , Selbach Matthias
Published: May 2010

Several bacterial pathogens inject virulence proteins into host target cells that are substrates of eukaryotic tyrosine kinases. One of the key examples is the Helicobacter pylori CagA effector protein which is translocated by a type‐IV secretion system. Injected CagA becomes tyrosine‐phosphorylated on EPIYA sequence motifs by Src and Abl family kinases. CagA then binds to and activates/inactivates multiple signaling proteins in a phosphorylation‐dependent and phosphorylation‐independent manner. A recent proteomic screen systematically identified eukaryotic binding partners of the EPIYA phosphorylation sites of CagA and similar sites in other bacterial effectors by high‐resolution mass spectrometry. Individual phosphorylation sites recruited a surprisingly high number of interaction partners suggesting that each phosphorylation site can interfere with many downstream pathways. We now count 20 reported cellular binding partners of CagA, which represents the highest quantitiy among all yet known virulence‐associated effector proteins in the microbial world. This complexity generates a highly remarkable and puzzling scenario. In addition, the first crystal structure of CagA provided us with new information on the function of this important virulence determinant. Here we review the recent advances in characterizing the multiple binding signaling activities of CagA. Injected CagA can act as a ‘master key’ that evolved the ability to highjack multiple host cell signalling cascades, which include the induction of membrane dynamics, actin‐cytoskeletal rearrangements and the disruption of cell‐to‐cell junctions as well as proliferative, pro‐inflammatory and anti‐apoptotic nuclear responses. The discovery that different pathogens use this common strategy to subvert host cell functions suggests that more examples will emerge soon.
Evolution and human tissue expression of theCres/Testatinsubgroup genes, a reproductive tissue specific subgroup of the type 2 cystatins
Authors: Frygelius Jessica , Arvestad Lars , Wedell Anna , Töhönen Virpi
Published: May 2010

SUMMARYThe cystatin family comprises a group of generally broadly expressed protease inhibitors. The Cres/Testatin subgroup (CTES) genes within the type 2 cystatins differs from the classical type 2 cystatins in having a strikingly reproductive tissue‐specific expression, and putative functions in reproduction have therefore been discussed. We have performed evolutionary studies of the CTES genes based on gene searches in genomes from 11 species. Ancestors of the cystatin family can be traced back to plants. We have localized the evolutionary origin of the CTES genes to the split of marsupial and placental mammals. A model for the evolution of these genes illustrates that they constitute a dynamic group of genes, which has undergone several gene expansions and we find indications of a high degree of positive selection, in striking contrast to what is seen for the classicalcystatin C. We show with phylogenetic relations that the CTES genes are clustered into three original groups, a testatin, a Cres, and a CstL1 group. We have further characterized the expression patterns of all human members of the subfamily. Of a total of nine identified human genes, four express putative functional transcripts with a predominant expression in the male reproductive system. Our results are compatible with a function of this gene family in reproduction.
Simultaneous Automatic Control of Oxygen and Carbon Dioxide Blood Gases During Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: Misgeld Berno J.E. , Werner Jürgen , Hexamer Martin
Published: May 2010

In this work an automatic control strategy is presented for the simultaneous control of oxygen and carbon dioxide blood gas partial pressures to be used during cardiopulmonary bypass surgery with heart–lung machine support. As the exchange of blood gases in the artificial extracorporeal lung is a highly nonlinear process comprising varying time delays, uncertainties, and time‐varying parameters, it is currently being controlled manually by specially trained perfusionist staff. The new control strategy includes a feedback linearization routine with augmented time‐delay compensation and two external linear gain‐scheduled controllers, for partial oxygen and carbon dioxide pressures. The controllers were robustly tuned and tested in simulations with a detailed artificial lung (oxygenator) model in cardiopulmonary bypass conditions. Furthermore, the controllers were implemented in an ex vivo experiment using fresh porcine blood as a substitute fluid and a special deoxygenation technique to simulate a patient undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass. Both controllers showed robust stability during the experiments and a good disturbance rejection to extracorporeal blood flow changes. This automatic control strategy is proposed to improve patient's safety by fast control reference tracking and good disturbance rejection under varying conditions.
A Passively Controlled Biventricular Support Device
Authors: Gaddum Nicholas Richard , Timms Daniel Lee , Pearcy Mark John
Published: May 2010

Clinical studies have reported the balancing of pump outputs to be a serious control issue for rotary biventricular support (BiVS) systems. Poor reliability of long‐term, blood immersed pressure sensors encouraged the development of a new control strategy to improve their viability. A rotary BiVS device was designed and constructed with a mechanical passive controller to autoregulate pump outputs to emulate the native baroreceptor response. In vitro testing in a dual circuit, hydraulic mock circulation loop showed that the prototype was able to maintain arterial pressures when subjected to sudden induced hemodynamic destabilization. However, inlet suction was observed when sudden simulated hypertension briefly reduced venous return to the cannulated ventricle. The results have encouraged further development of the device as a means to create an inherently stable, fully passive biventricular support device.
Activation of PAR‐2 Elicits NO‐Dependent and CGRP‐Independent Dilation of the Dural Artery
Authors: Bhatt Deepak K. , Ploug Kenneth B. , Ramachandran Roshni , Olesen Jes , Gupta Saurabh
Published: May 2010

(Headache2010;50:1017‐1030)

Objectives.—The goal of this study was to determine the vascular effects of protease‐activated receptor‐2 (PAR‐2) activation in the rat cranial vasculature.

Background.—The role of PAR‐2 in pain and inflammatory conditions has been established but the information available on its effects and receptor distribution in the trigeminal vascular axis is limited. We studied the dilatory function and expression of PAR‐2 in the neuro‐vascular circuit, critical in migraine pathogenesis. We also investigated the interaction of PAR‐2 with calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) and dural mast cells.

Methods.—We used an improved model of intravital microscopy on the closed cranial window in rats to study the vascular effects of PAR‐2 activating peptides (PAR‐2 APs; SLIGRL‐NH2, 2‐Furoyl‐LIGRLO‐NH2) in the dural vasculature. Measurement of immunoreactive CGRP in skull halves and in trigeminal nucleus caudalis was done by using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. We also analyzed the presence of PAR‐2 in different migraine relevant tissues by quantitative real‐time PCR and Western blot analysis.

Results.—PAR‐2 APs and trypsin induced a dose‐dependent increase in dural artery diameter. The topical application of a nonspecific nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor, L‐NG‐Nitroarginine methyl ester, attenuated SLIGRL‐NH2responses. Olcegepant, a CGRP receptor antagonist, did not a have significant effect on the SLIGRL‐NH2responses, though exogenous CGRP responses were completely blocked. There was no significant release of CGRP from skull halves incubated with SLIGRL‐NH2as compared with those incubated with the corresponding negative peptide. Chronic mast cell degranulation did not change the vascular effects of PAR‐2 APs. mRNA and protein expression of PAR‐2 were found throughout trigeminovasuclar axis.

Conclusion.—PAR‐2 activation leads to vasodilation of dural arteries and these responses are partially mediated by nitric oxide. As PAR‐2 is present throughout trigeminovasuclar axis, it may have a role in migraine pathogenesis, independent of CGRP and mast cell mediated mechanism.
Acute Treatment of Basilar‐Type Migraine With Greater Occipital Nerve Blockade
Authors: Baron Eric P. , Tepper Stewart J. , Mays Maryann , Cherian Neil
Published: May 2010

(Headache 2010;50:1057‐1069)

Basilar‐type migraine (BTM) precludes use of migraine‐specific medications such as triptans and ergots based on concerns originating from the vascular theory of migraine, although data supporting this contraindication are lacking. Availability of effective treatments for acute BTM is limited. We report a case of BTM aborted with greater occipital nerve (GON) blockade given in the setting of prominent suboccipital tenderness. GON blockade may provide an additional option in acute management of BTM. It may be particularly useful when associated with prominent ipsilateral suboccipital tenderness.
Longitudinal Physical Activity Changes in Older Men in the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men Study
Authors: Janney Carol A. , Cauley Jane A. , Cawthon Peggy M. , Kriska Andrea M. ,   for the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men Study Group
Published: May 2010

OBJECTIVES: To describe the change in physical activity (total, leisure, household, occupational) in men over a mean 5‐year follow‐up period and to identify sociodemographic and health factors associated with change in physical activity.

DESIGN: Prospective cohort study; Osteoporotic Fractures in Men Study; data collected March 2000 through May 2006.

SETTING: Six U.S. clinical centers.

PARTICIPANTS: Volunteer sample of ambulatory community‐dwelling men aged 65 and older (N=5,161).

MEASUREMENTS: Self‐reported physical activity assessed at baseline and Visit 2 (V2) (5 years apart) according to the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE) (unitless, relative measure of physical activity).

RESULTS: At baseline, PASE scores averaged 16.8±35.5 for occupational, 37.0±34.0 for leisure, 95.9±43.2 for household, and 149.7±67.6 for total physical activity. Occupational (−6.2±33.9), leisure (−3.2±37.3), household (−9.9±44.3), and total (−19.3±67.7) physical activity change scores declined, on average, from baseline to V2. On average, change in total PASE scores declined more with age: −15.6±71.6 for men younger than 70, −16.4±67.0 for men aged 70 to 74, −21.4±66.9 for men aged 75 to 79, and −29.5±60.7 for men aged 80 and older. Living alone, smoking cigarettes, poor health, and higher blood pressure were associated with greater declines in physical activity over time. Although average scores declined, some older men (1,335, 26%) reported increasing physical activity levels. Better physical and mental health, living with others, and being younger were associated with the probability of increasing physical activity over time.

CONCLUSION: Over the 5‐year period, the majority of men reported declines in total physical activity. Older men in poor health who live alone have a high risk of physical activity declines and may be an important group to target for exercise interventions.
Extended storage of platelet‐rich plasma–prepared platelet concentrates in plasma or Plasmalyte
Authors: Slichter Sherrill J. , Bolgiano Doug , Corson Jill , Jones Mary Kay , Christoffel Todd
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND:Using bacterial detection or pathogen reduction, extended platelet (PLT) storage may be licensed if PLT viability is maintained. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA)'s poststorage PLT acceptance guidelines are that autologous stored PLT recoveries and survivals should be 66 and 58% or greater, respectively, of each donor's fresh PLT data.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS:Nonleukoreduced PLT concentrates were prepared from whole blood donations. Autologous PLT concentrates from 62 subjects were stored in 100% plasma (n = 44) or 20% plasma/80% Plasmalyte (n = 18), an acetate‐based, non–glucose‐containing crystalloid solution previously used for PLT storage. Fresh PLTs were obtained on the day the donor's stored PLTs were to be transfused. The fresh and stored PLTs were alternately radiolabeled with either51chromium or111indium, and in vitro measurements were performed on the stored PLTs.

RESULTS:The FDA's PLT recovery criteria were met for 7 days of plasma storage, but PLT survivals maintained viability for only 6 days. Plasmalyte‐stored PLTs did not meet either acceptance criteria after 6 days of storage. After 7 days of storage, PLT recoveries averaged 43 ± 4 and 30 ± 4% and survivals 4.1 ± 0.4 and 2.0 ± 0.2 days for plasma‐ and Plasmalyte‐stored PLTs, respectively (p = 0.03 for recoveries and p < 0.001 for survivals). Poststorage PLT recoveries correlated with the commonly used in vitro PLT quality measurements of hypotonic shock response and annexin V binding, while survivals correlated with extent of shape change, morphology score, and pH.

CONCLUSION:There is a progressive decrease in recoveries and survivals of plasma‐stored PLTs over time. PLT viability is better maintained in plasma than Plasmalyte.
Weak A phenotypes associated with novel ABO alleles carrying the A2‐related 1061C deletion and various missense substitutions
Authors: Hult Annika K. , Yazer Mark H. , Jørgensen René , Hellberg Åsa , Hustinx Hein , Peyrard Thierry , Palcic Monica M. , Olsson Martin L.
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND: The 1061delC single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) has been reported mostly in the context of the common A2[A201] allele and typically produces an A2 phenotype. This study evaluated new Aweak alleles, each containing 1061delC.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Twenty samples were referred to our laboratory for analysis due to suspected Aweak phenotypes originally detected at the referring centers. ABO Exons 1 through 7 and flanking intronic regions were sequenced. A antigen expression on red blood cells was analyzed by flow cytometry. Plasma enzyme activity was studied in one case. Molecular three‐dimensional modeling techniques studied the potential effects of amino acid changes on the resulting glycosyltransferases (GTs).

RESULTS: Thirteen alleles were discovered, each featuring 1061delC with at least 1 of 12 additional SNPs in the coding region. One of these SNPs disrupts the translation initiation codon. Another constitutes the first reported change in the DVD motif. One SNP found in three alleles causes a substitution of one of the four amino acids that differentiates the wild‐type A and B enzymes but plasma enzyme analysis by two methods showed only slightly decreased or normal A2 activity. Flow cytometric analysis semiquantified the A antigen levels in 16 cases featuring 10 of the alleles and ranged from very weak to nearly A2 levels. However, the majority of the samples displayed Ax‐like patterns. Molecular modeling of some of the GT variants indicated conformational changes that may explain the diminished A expression observed.

CONCLUSION: Missense SNPs were identified in 13 novel A2‐like alleles, which produced a variety of A subgroup phenotypes.
Platelet senescence and phosphatidylserine exposure
Authors: Dasgupta Swapan Kumar , Argaiz Eduardo Rios , Mercado Jose Emmanel Chedid , Maul Hector Omar Elizondo , Garza Jorge , Enriquez Ana Bety , Abdel‐Monem Hanan , Prakasam Anthony , Andreeff Michael , Thiagarajan Perumal
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND: The exposure of phosphatidylserine occurs during platelet (PLT) activation and during in vitro storage. Phosphatidylserine exposure also occurs during apoptosis after the release of mitochondrial cytochrome c. We have examined the role of cytochrome c release, mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), and cyclophilin D (CypD) in phosphatidylserine exposure due to activation and storage.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: The exposure of phosphatidylserine and the loss of ΔΨm were determined in a flow cytometer using fluorescein isothiocyanate–lactadherin and JC‐1, a lipophilic cationic reporter dye. The role of CypD was determined with cyclosporin A and CypD‐deficient murine PLTs. Cytochrome c‐induced caspase‐3 and Rho‐associated kinase I (ROCK1) activation were determined by immunoblotting and using their inhibitors.

RESULTS: Collagen‐ and thrombin‐induced exposure of phosphatidylserine was accompanied by a decrease in ΔΨm. Cyclosporin A inhibited the phosphatidylserine exposure and the loss of ΔΨm. CypD−/− mice had decreased loss of ΔΨm and impaired phosphatidylserine exposure. Collagen and thrombin did not induce the release of cytochrome c nor the activation of caspase‐3 and ROCK1. In contrast, in PLTs stored for more than 5 days, the phosphatidylserine exposure was associated with cytochrome c–induced caspase‐3 and ROCK1 activation. ABT737, a BH3 mimetic that induces mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis, induced cytochrome c release and activation of caspase‐3 and ROCK1 and phosphatidylserine exposure independent of CypD.

CONCLUSION: These results show that in stored PLTs cytochrome c release and the subsequent activation of caspase‐3 and ROCK1 mediate phosphatidylserine exposure and it is distinct from activation‐induced phosphatidylserine exposure.