bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management and complications of anaesthesia during balloon valvuloplasty for pulmonic stenosis in dogs: 39 cases (2000 to 2012)
Authors: Ramos R. V. , Monteiro‐Steagall B. P. , Steagall P. V. M.
Published: January 2014

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to report the management and complications of anaesthesia in dogs undergoing balloon valvuloplasty.

METHODS

A retrospective review of medical records of dogs that were diagnosed with pulmonic stenosis and undergoing balloon valvuloplasty between 2000 and 2012.

RESULTS

Thirty‐nine cases were identified (28 males and 11 females). Median (range) age and bodyweight was 6 (4 to 48) months and 11 · 5 (2 · 0 to 30 · 3) kg, respectively. The most commonly represented breeds included mixed breed (n = 7, 17 · 9%) and English bulldog (n = 6, 15 · 3%). Anaesthesia was induced most commonly with intravenous administration of ketamine‐diazepam (n = 8, 20 · 5%), propofol‐diazepam (n = 8, 20 · 5%), or propofol‐midazolam‐lidocaine (n = 6, 15 · 4%), and maintained with isoflurane in combination with fentanyl or lidocaine. Anaesthetic and surgery times (mean ± sd) were 268 · 5 ±54 minutes and 193 · 2 ±50 minutes, respectively. The most common intraoperative complications were hypotension (n = 19, 48 · 7%), bradycardia (n = 8, 20 · 5%) and desaturation (n = 7, 17 · 9%). Cardiac arrhythmias were observed in 21 (53 · 8%) dogs. Death occurred in one (2 · 6%) dog due to severe hypotension after ballooning followed by cardiac arrest.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Successful anaesthesia can be performed in young dogs with pulmonic stenosis undergoing balloon valvuloplasty. Management of anaesthesia requires intense monitoring and immediate treatment of complications. Anaesthetic risk increases during ballooning and may result in cardiac arrest.
Flexible patterns in energy savings: heterothermy in primates
Authors: Dausmann K. H.
Published: January 2014

Heterothermy is an energy‐saving strategy usually employed in response to environmental bottlenecks, which is common in almost all mammalian orders. Within the order primates, heterothermy has been physiologically confirmed only in the family Cheirogaleidae (Cheirogaleus, Microcebus, Allocebus, Mirza) of the Malagasy lemurs, and the southern lesser bushbaby (Galago moholi) of the family Galagonidae. These closely related species employ a spectrum of daily torpor, prolonged torpor and obligate hibernation under tropical, but nevertheless seasonal and energetically demanding conditions. There is a remarkable physiological flexibility in regard to their thermoregulatory adaptations not only between species of the same genera within one habitat, but also between populations of the same species, within populations and even within the same individual, permitting immediate responses in seasonal and unpredictable environments, and possibly aiding these species to master challenges of globally changing climatic conditions. Whereas heterothermy is a flexible, but regular seasonal response in the Cheirogaleidae, it is only used as a last emergency strategy in G. moholi. In the other primate species, there is either no or only anecdotal evidence of only minor reductions in metabolic rate, presumably rather reflecting pronounced circadian cycles in body temperature, or local heterothermy. Maybe because of their relatively high degree of sociality and larger body sizes, behavioural and ecological adaptations to seasonality are selected for in other primates.
Internet‐Based Employer Search and Vacancy Duration: Evidence from Finland
Authors: Nivalainen Henna
Published: January 2014

This study investigates the effect of the introduction of the public employment agency's Internet‐based service on the duration of employer search. The analysis exploits the introduction of a web‐based service by the Finnish Employment Agency in October 2002. The results, based on information on job vacancies announced via the public employment agency between 2002 and 2003, indicate that the introduction of the web service, in general, shortened the duration of employer search. However, we find that the introduction of the web‐based service shortened the average duration of vacancies in some regions but not in others. In addition, employers in urban areas were more likely to benefit from the introduction of the online service.
Effects of substratum type on fish assemblages in shallow areas of a tropical estuary
Authors: Reis‐Filho José Amorim , de Alcântara Santos Alexandre Clistenes
Published: January 2014

While there is already a comprehensive understanding of the effects of environmental variables, such as dissolved oxygen, temperature and salinity, on the structure, biomass and metabolism of aquatic biota in estuarine habitats, the effect of sedimentation, a harmful underlying factor, remains unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the differences in fish assemblages along the freshwater to salt water gradient of a large tropical estuary, and to evaluate the effects on them of habitat disturbance associated with shallow water sedimentation in the intertidal areas. Fish and environmental variables were recorded in the upper, middle and lower salinity zones of the estuary at ebb tide in both the dry and wet seasons. Sediment samples associated with different levels of habitat disturbance were analysed using granulometry, and their organic content and dissolved oxygen levels were quantified. Water temperature, salinity, pH and dissolved oxygen levels were also measured. Habitat disturbance was found to be correlated with the density, biomass and richness of fish assemblages. A total of 77 species were recorded, forming two distinct fish assemblages, with the Eleotridae family dominating in the upper zone, and Gerreidae, Gobiidae and Tetraodontidae the most common in the middle and lower estuary. Changes in the structure of fish assemblages, including reductions in density, biomass and richness, were associated with disturbance to natural features, where muddy sediment was replaced by sandy sediment and the quantity of organic matter fell. Atherinella brasiliensis was the species which showed a preference for the disturbed areas in the middle and lower zones, while Dormitator maculatus showed a preference for them in the upper estuary. They may be taken as indicators of habitat disturbance due to shallow sedimentation.
Replicate divergence between and within sounds in a marine fish: the copper rockfish (Sebastes caurinus)
Authors: Dick S. , Shurin J. B. , Taylor E. B.
Published: January 2014

Understanding the factors that influence larval dispersal and connectivity among marine populations is critical to the conservation and sustainable management of marine resources. We assessed genetic subdivision among ten populations of copper rockfish (Sebastes caurinus) representing paired samples of outer coast and the heads of inlets in five replicate sounds on the west coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, using 17 microsatellite DNA loci. Overall, subdivision (FST) was low (FST = 0.031, P < 0.001), but consistently higher between paired coast and head of inlet sites (mean FST = 0.047, P < 0.001) compared to among the five coast sites (mean FST = −0.001, P > 0.5) or among the five head of inlet sites (mean FST = 0.026, P < 0.001). Heterozygosity, allelic richness and estimates of effective population size were also lower in head of inlet sites than in coast sites. Bayesian analysis identified two genetic groups across all samples, a single genetic group among only coast samples, two genetic groups among head of inlet samples and two genetic groups within each sound analysed separately. Head of inlet copper rockfish tended to be shorter with lower condition factors and grew more slowly than coast sites fish. Reduced physical connectivity and selection against immigrants in contrasting outer coast–head of inlet environments likely contribute to the evolution of population structure of copper rockfish. Based on genetic connectivity, coast sites appear to be better served by existing marine protected areas than are head of inlet sites.
Sources of work‐related acute fatigue in United States hospital nurses
Authors: Chen Jie , Daraiseh Nancy M. , Davis Kermit G. , Pan Wei
Published: January 2014

This study identified the nursing work activities that could be the primary sources of work‐related acute fatigue in US hospital nurses. Continuous recording of working heart rate and random observations of nursing activities were applied to collect data from eight nurses during two consecutive 12 h day shifts. Using descriptive statistics and random‐effect analysis of variance, the contributions of individual nursing work activities to acute fatigue were compared based on the activity frequencies and nurses' corresponding heart rate elevations. Of 860 observed nursing‐related work activities, manual patient‐handling, bedside‐care, care‐coordinating, and walking/standing activities accounted for 5%, 16%, 38%, and 41%, respectively. After controlling for the differences of participant and shift, the percentage of working heart rate to maximal heart rate of manual patient‐handling (64.3%), bedside‐care (59.7%), and walking/standing (57.4%) activities were significantly higher than that of care‐coordinating activities (52.3%, F[3, 38.0] = 7.5, P < 0.001). These findings suggest that bedside care and walking/standing, other than manual patient handling, contributed most to the level of acute fatigue.
Promoting interprofessional understandings through online learning: A qualitative examination
Authors: McKenna Lisa , Boyle Malcolm , Palermo Claire , Molloy Elizabeth , Williams Brett , Brown Ted
Published: January 2014

Interprofessional education is increasingly a core component of health professional curricula. It has been suggested that interprofessional education can directly enhance patient care outcomes. However, literature has reported many difficulties in its successful implementation. This study investigated students' perceptions of participating in an online, Web‐based module to facilitate interprofessional education. Three focus groups, each with 13–15 students, from emergency health (paramedic), nursing, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and nutrition and dietetics were conducted with students who participated in an online interprofessional education module at one Australian university. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze interview transcripts. Four themes emerged: professional understanding, patient‐centeredness, comparison with other interprofessional education activities, and overcoming geographical boundaries. Students were overwhelmingly positive about their learning experiences and the value of the module in assisting their understandings of the roles of other health professionals. Online approaches to interprofessional education have the potential to enhance learning and overcome geographical and logistical issues inherent in delivering face‐to‐face interprofessional education. Furthermore, our design approach allowed students to watch how other health professionals worked in a way that they were unable to achieve in clinical practice.
Nurses' self‐confidence and attitudes in using the Glasgow Coma Scale: a primary study
Authors: Mattar Ihsan , Liaw Sok Y , Chan Moon F
Published: January 2014

Aims

The aim of this study was to examine nurses' self‐confidence and attitudes towards the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS).

Background

The GCS measures the depth and duration of impaired consciousness. However, there is an increasing evidence that problems are encountered in completing some aspects of the GCS.

Design

This descriptive correlational study recruited 114 Registered Nurses (RNs) in one acute care hospital in Singapore.

Methods

A set of questionnaires were given to the participants. The questionnaire had three parts, which collected data on demographics, attitudes and self‐confidence.

Results

Data analysis showed the type of clinical discipline (B = 0·19), seniority in nursing (Staff Grade) (B = 0·28) and higher attitude scores towards the GCS (B = 0·41) were significant factors determining a nurse's confidence in using the GCS. A longer length of time working in a Neuroscience setting (B = 0·21) and higher self‐confidence scores (B = 0·41) were significant factors determining a nurse's attitude towards the GCS.

Conclusion

To ensure patient safety, the GCS has to be performed accurately. This study has shown there are differences in attitudes and self‐confidence in using the GCS between nurses of different demographics, and that there are a variety of factors influencing their attitudes and confidence.

Relevance to clinical practice

Mentoring and educational interventions are suggested in order to reduce safety risks resulting from lower proficiency in using the GCS.
Possible mechanisms responsible for absence of a retrotransposon family on a plant Y chromosome
Authors: Kubat Zdenek , Zluvova Jitka , Vogel Ivan , Kovacova Viera , Cermak Tomas , Cegan Radim , Hobza Roman , Vyskot Boris , Kejnovsky Eduard
Published: January 2014

Some transposable elements (TEs) show extraordinary variance in abundance along sex chromosomes but the mechanisms responsible for this variance are unknown. Here, we studied Ogre long terminal repeat (LTR) retrotransposons in Silene latifolia, a dioecious plant with evolutionarily young heteromorphic sex chromosomes. Ogre elements are ubiquitous in the S. latifolia genome but surprisingly absent on the Y chromosome.

Bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) library analysis and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) were used to determine Ogre structure and chromosomal localization. Next generation sequencing (NGS) data were analysed to assess the transcription level and abundance of small RNAs. Methylation of Ogres was determined by bisulphite sequencing. Phylogenetic analysis was used to determine mobilization time and selection forces acting on Ogre elements.

We characterized three Ogre families ubiquitous in the S. latifolia genome. One family is nearly absent on the Y chromosome despite all the families having similar structures and spreading mechanisms. We showed that Ogre retrotransposons evolved before sex chromosomes appeared but were mobilized after formation of the Y chromosome. Our data suggest that the absence of one Ogre family on the Y chromosome may be caused by 24‐nucleotide (24‐nt) small RNA‐mediated silencing leading to female‐specific spreading.

Our findings highlight epigenetic silencing mechanisms as potentially crucial factors in sex‐specific spreading of some TEs, but other possible mechanisms are also discussed.
Evenness and diversity in Upper Cambrian – Lower Ordovician trilobite communities from the Central Andean Basin (Cordillera Oriental, Argentina)
Authors: Balseiro Diego , Waisfeld Beatriz G.
Published: January 2014

Community evenness has recently received much attention, either because it is related to ecosystem functioning or because it may affect estimation of diversity. Temporal and environmental trends in diversity and evenness of trilobite communities during the Late Cambrian – Early Ordovician of the Cordillera Oriental (north‐western Argentina) are here analysed. Richness and evenness increase through time in both deep subtidal (between fair‐weather and storm wave base) and offshore (below storm wave base) communities. Two significant patterns are superimposed on this general trend: (1) the magnitude of the increase in evenness is much more pronounced in deep than in shallower settings, and (2) richness and evenness trajectories are decoupled (while a significant rise in evenness is recorded in the middle Tremadocian (Tr2), an increase in richness is delayed until the late Tremadocian (Tr3)). In contrast to expectations, a single family (Olenidae) is dominant in samples associated with this earlier rise in evenness relative to richness. Hence, this trend is explained neither by the number of families present in the communities nor by the familial identity of the most abundant taxon. Large‐scale comparisons of the timing and geographical components of these trends are restricted to the patterns recognized in Laurentian North American studies. Results from the Cordillera Oriental mirror those of Laurentia regarding the rise in both metrics in deep marine settings. Nevertheless, the timing of this increase in richness and evenness is delayed in the Cordillera Oriental, supporting the idea that palaeogeographical regions differed in the nature and timing of ecological changes. Finally, the rise in trilobite alpha‐diversity through the Late Cambrian – Early Ordovician of the Cordillera Oriental supports the idea that trilobite alpha‐diversity did not decline worldwide, suggesting that the relative decline in trilobite alpha‐diversity is most probably caused by the dilution effect.
Partial versus complete submergence: snorkelling aids root aeration in Rumex palustris but not in R. acetosa
Authors: HERZOG MAX , PEDERSEN OLE
Published: January 2014

The root and shoot tissues of flood‐tolerant wetland plants are highly porous to enable internal gas phase diffusion of O2 during waterlogging or submergence. In the case of only partial submergence (snorkelling), the atmosphere can act as source of O2. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of waterlogging, partial submergence and complete submergence in the dark as well as in light on O2 partial pressure (pO2) in roots of Rumex palustris (flood tolerant) and R. acetosa (flood intolerant). We used O2 microelectrodes to measure pO2 of adventitious roots during manipulations of the water level around the shoot. Root pO2 in both species declined significantly upon submergence but remained oxic also when shoots were completely submerged in the dark (0.8 and 4.6 kPa in R. acetosa and R. palustris, respectively). The snorkelling effect was substantial in R. palustris only. Submergence in light had less impact on root pO2 and the effect of snorkelling was also minor. Hence, the benefits of light (underwater photosynthesis) and air contact (snorkelling) upon growth and survival in submerged wetland plants can now be linked to enhanced internal aeration.
An Unusual Cluster of Circumscribed Juvenile Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris Cases
Authors: Martin Kari L. , Holland Kristen E. , Lyon Valerie , Chiu Yvonne E.
Published: January 2014

Circumscribed juvenile pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP) is an uncommon dermatosis. We describe the unusual clustering of circumscribed juvenile PRP cases in our pediatric dermatology clinic in 2011. A retrospective chart review was done of patients presenting during the summer of 2011 with classic findings of circumscribed juvenile PRP. Clinical data including past medical and family history, presenting symptoms, infectious disease history and evaluation, biopsy results, and management were recorded. Seven patients, ages 5 to 19 years, all had strikingly similar skin findings of pink to hyperpigmented, well‐defined, scaly papules and plaques on their elbows, knees, dorsal hands, ankles, and Achilles tendons. Four of the seven also had palmoplantar involvement. Four were sibling pairs and the other three were unrelated. Streptococcus pyogenes infection was suspected as a trigger in four of the patients. The unusual clustering of this uncommon disease, along with the occurrence in two sibling pairs, suggests that a genetic susceptibility unmasked by an infectious agent may play a role in its pathogenesis.
Physiological factors affecting the rapid decrease in protein assimilation efficiency by a caterpillar on newly‐mature tree leaves
Authors: BARBEHENN RAYMOND V. , HAUGBERG NOLA , KOCHMANSKI JOSEPH , MENACHEM BRANDON , MILLER CHELSEA
Published: January 2014

Lymantria dispar L. caterpillars have a decreased ability to assimilate protein from mature leaves of red oak (Quercus rubra) compared with young, expanding leaves. The present study determines whether the drop in protein assimilation efficiency (PAE) occurs during the rapid phase of leaf maturation. Several mechanisms that might account for decreased PAE are also examined: mature leaf tissues could resist being chewed efficiently, protein in mature leaf tissues could become difficult to extract, and other nutrients in mature leaves might become growth limiting. The entire seasonal decrease in PAE occurs rapidly (in less than 2 weeks), when the leaves finished expanding. The maturation process is characterized by increased levels of fibre and decreased levels of water but no significant changes in the levels of protein or carbohydrates. Despite increased fibre in mature leaves, they are not chewed into larger food particles than are immature leaves. Carbohydrate assimilation efficiencies remain high on mature leaves, and signs of limiting water levels in larvae of L. dispar on mature leaves are not observed. The most important finding in the present study is the decreased extractability of protein in food particles from mature leaves, which plays a major role in explaining the rapid decrease in PAE. It is hypothesized that structural changes in cell walls during the rapid process of leaf maturation decrease protein extractability, which, in turn, greatly decreases the nutritional quality of mature oak leaves for caterpillars. The results of the present study therefore suggest a general mechanism to help explain the widely documented decrease in the nutritional quality of the mature leaves of many tree species for herbivorous insects.
The Moderating Impact of Social Networks on the Relationships Among Core Values, Partisanship, and Candidate Evaluations
Authors: Lupton Robert N. , Singh Shane P. , Thornton Judd R.
Published: January 2014

Social networks are increasingly becoming recognized as a source of influence on political attitudes and behavior. In this study, we examine the moderating impact of social networks on the relationship among several attitudes. We argue that those who regularly interact with individuals with different views from their own will be more likely to think of themselves in nonpartisan terms. It is therefore hypothesized that an individual's discussion network influences the relationship between one's support for various core values and one's partisanship. As a corollary, we argue that disagreement in discussion networks reduces individuals' reliance on partisanship when forming subsequent attitudes. To test these propositions, we employ data asking respondents to list individuals with whom they discuss politics on a regular basis and who such individuals supported in a recent election to create a measure of network disagreement. Empirical tests provide strong support for our hypotheses.
Aetiology and toxigenicity of Fusarium graminearum and F. pseudograminearum causing crown rot and head blight in Australia under natural and artificial infection
Authors: Obanor F. , Chakraborty S.
Published: January 2014

Globally fusarium head blight (FHB) of wheat is predominantly caused by Fusarium graminearum (FG) and crown rot (FCR) by F. pseudograminearum (FP). While both FG and FP can cause FHB in Australia, the reasons why the morphologically and culturally similar FG is not a major FCR pathogen has remained elusive. Using aetiology and toxigenicity, this study clarifies the contrasting roles of FG and FP in FCR and FHB in Australia. Naturally infected wheat from 42 sites during 2010 FHB epidemics, and wheat inoculated with either pathogen to induce FCR or FHB at three field plantings in 2011, were used to determine pathogen prevalence and deoxynivalenol (DON) content of the crown, stem base, stem top, rachis and grain. As the primary aetiological agent, FP prevalence in the crown correlated with FCR severity while FG in grain and/or the rachis correlated with FHB severity. FG was an effective colonizer of the crown and stem base but colonization was symptomless. DON content was linked to FG biomass in all tissues except the crown, where FP biomass was the main contributor. Of the 30 measures derived to analyse pathogen fitness in 2011, 10 described the superior fitness of FG for FHB; six defined FP fitness for FHB including inoculum dispersal; and eight defined FCR fitness of both FP and FG. FG had superior FHB fitness but weak saprophytic survival may have undermined its FCR fitness.
Antral Follicle Populations and Embryo Production – In Vitro and In Vivo – of Bos indicus–taurus Donors from Weaning to Yearling Ages
Authors: Silva‐Santos KC , Santos GMG , Koetz Júnior C , Morotti F , Siloto LS , Marcantonio TN , Urbano MR , Oliveira RL , Lima DCM , Seneda MM
Published: January 2014

Contents

Interest in indicus–taurus cattle has been increasing, as these animals are likely to present the best characteristics of Zebu and European bovine breeds. The aim of this study was to compare the embryo production of indicus–taurus donors with high vs low antral follicle counts obtained by ovum pickup/in vitro production (OPU/IVP) and superovulation (SOV)/embryo collection. Braford females at weaning age (3/8 Nelore × 5/8 Hereford, n = 137, 9 ± 1 month old) were subjected to six serial ovarian ultrasonographs and were assigned to two groups according to the number of antral follicles ≥3 mm as follows: G‐High antral follicular count (AFC, n = 20, mean ≥40 follicles) and G‐Low AFC (n = 20, mean ≤10 follicles). When the females (n = 40) reached 24 months of age, they were subjected to both OPU/IVP and SOV/embryo collection. The average number of follicles remained highly stable throughout all of the ultrasound evaluations (range 0.90–0.92). The mean number of COCs recovered (36.90 ± 13.68 vs 5.80 ± 3.40) was higher (p < 0.05) for females with high AFC, resulting in higher (p < 0.05) numbers of total embryos among females with high vs low AFC (6.10 ± 4.51 vs 0.55 ± 0.83). The mean number of embryos per collection was also higher (p < 0.05) for G‐High vs G‐Low (6.95 ± 5.34 vs 1.9 ± 2.13). We conclude that a single ultrasound performed at pre‐pubertal ages to count antral follicles can be used as a predictor of embryo production following IVP and SOV/embryo collection in indicus–taurus females.
Use of Equine Chorionic Gonadotropin to Control Reproduction of the Dairy Cow: A Review
Authors: De Rensis F , López‐Gatius F
Published: January 2014

Contents

Equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) is a member of the glycoprotein family of hormones along with LH, FSH and thyroid‐stimulating hormone. In non‐equid species, eCG shows high LH‐ and FSH‐like activities and has a high affinity for both FSH and LH receptors in the ovaries. On the granulosa and thecal cells of the follicle, eCG has long‐lasting LH‐ and FSH‐like effects that stimulate oestradiol and progesterone secretion. Thus, eCG administration in dairy cattle results in fewer atretic follicles, the recruitment of more small follicles showing an elevated growth rate, the sustained growth of medium and large follicles and improved development of the dominant and pre‐ovulatory follicle. In consequence, the quality of the ensuing CL is improved, and thereby progesterone secretion increased. Based on these characteristics, eCG treatment is utilized in veterinary medicine to control the reproductive activity of the cow by i) improving reproductive performance during early post‐partum stages; ii) increasing ovulation and pregnancy rates in non‐cyclic cows; iii) improving the conception rate in cows showing delayed ovulation; and finally, iv) eCG is currently included in protocols for fixed‐time artificial insemination since after inducing the synchrony of ovulation using a progesterone‐releasing device, eCG has beneficial effects on embryo development and survival. The above effects are not always observed in cyclic animals, but they are evident in animals in which LH secretion and ovarian activity are reduced or compromised, for instance, during the early post‐partum period, under seasonal heat stress, in anoestrus animals or in animals with a low body condition score.
Optimal Dialysate Sodium—What is the Evidence?
Authors: Mc Causland Finnian R. , Waikar Sushrut S.
Published: January 2014

Oligo‐anuric patients with end‐stage kidney disease are dependent on hemodialysis to achieve and maintain the desired goal of euvolemia. The dialysis prescription, in addition to sodium and fluid restriction, is therefore a critically important factor in the care of hemodialysis patients. Various dialysate sodium concentrations have been favored throughout the history of dialysis, but the “optimal” concentration remains unclear. In this manuscript, we examine the historical context of changes to the dialysate sodium prescription, review the evidence of its associated effects, discuss ‘individualization’ of dialysate sodium, and highlight the need for definitive trials that are powered for important clinical outcomes.
Intraocular pressure, specular microscopy, and prostaglandinE2concentration in dogs with mature and hypermature cataract
Authors: Renzo Roberta , Ribeiro Alexandre P. , da Silva Miguel L. , da Silva Germana Alegro , Ortencio Kethye P. , Barros Sobrinho Alexandre A. F. , Wilson Patriarca Mineo Tiago , Laus José Luiz
Published: January 2014

This study aimed to evaluate and correlate intraocular pressure (IOP), endothelial cell density (CD), and hexagonality (HEX), and the aqueous humor prostaglandinE2(PGE2) concentration in dogs with mature (MG,n = 8) and hypermature (HG,n = 8) cataracts. Eight laboratory beagles with no ocular abnormalities were included as a control group (CG). TheIOPwas measured using a digital applanation tonometer. Noncontact specular microscopy was used to evaluateCDandHEX. Samples of aqueous humor were used to determine prostaglandinE2concentration using enzyme‐linked immunoassay. Data were compared byanovaandBonferroni's multiple comparison test, and possible correlations among thePGE2aqueous concentration and corneal endothelium cell parameters were assessed byPerson′s test (P < 0.05). Average values ofIOP(P = 0.45) andCD(P = 0.39) were not significantly different betweenMG,HM, andCG. Average values ofHEXwere lower, andPGE2concentration was increased in theMGandHGin comparison withCG(P < 0.05); however, such parameters did not change significantly betweenMGandHG(P > 0.05).PGE2values did not correlate withIOP,CD, andHEXin any group (P > 0.05). Although there were a small number of dogs studied, our results demonstrated that cataract progression from mature to hypermature did not have a significant change inPGE2 aqueous concentration,IOP, corneal endothelial cell count, or morphology. In addition,PGE2concentration was not correlated with parameters of the corneal endothelium orIOPin dogs with mature or hypermature cataracts.
Intraocular pressure, ultrasonographic and echobiometric findings of juvenile Yacare caiman (Caiman yacare) eye
Authors: Ruiz Thaís , Campos Wilma N. S. , Peres Thalita P. S. , Gonçalves Gentil F. , Ferraz Rosa H. S. , Néspoli Pedro E. B. , Sousa Valéria R. F. , Ribeiro Alexandre P.
Published: January 2014

Objective

The aim was to determine the intraocular pressure (IOP), the ultrasonographic and echobiometric findings in the eyes of juvenile Yacare caiman(Caiman yacare).

Animals

Twenty‐two healthy caimans from a breeding farm in Brazilian Pantanal.

Procedures

Intraocular pressure was measured under physical restraint and topical anesthesia by applanation tonometry. Five individual measurements of each eye were recorded by the same examiner. B‐mode ultrasonography was performed with a 10‐MHz linear transducer, and the anterior chamber depth, lens thickness, vitreous depth, and axial globe length were measured. Unpaired and pairedt‐tests were used to assess data. Pearson's test was used to assess correlations betweenIOPand ocular structures (P < 0.05).

Results

Mean ± SD IOPof the 44 eyes studied was 9.56 ± 2.69 mmHg, (range 5.4–15.6 mmHg).IOPdid not differ significantly between right and left eyes or between genders (P > 0.05). Echobiometric measurements did not differ significantly between eyes and genders (P > 0.05). Intraocular structures measured in male and female subjects were, respectively, 2.61 ± 0.13 and 2.55 ± 0.18 mm for anterior chamber depth, 7.60 ± 0.17 and 7.54 ± 0.20 mm for lens thickness, 6.83 ± 0.20 and 6.90 ± 0.22 mm for vitreous chamber depth, and 17.55 ± 0.25 and 17.54 ± 0.29 mm for axial globe length. Correlations were not observed (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Reference values of tonometry and distances of intraocular structures of Yacare caiman were described.IOPdid not correlate with echobiometric measurements in this crocodilian. The ultrasonographic appearance was similar to other domestic and wild species.
Impact of Shear Flow Instabilities on the Magnitude and Saturation of the Flame Response
Authors: Terhaar Steffen , Ćosić Bernhard , Oliver Paschereit Christian , Oberleithner Kilian
Published: January 2014

Amplitude-dependent flame transfer functions, also denoted as flame describing functions, are valuable tools for the prediction of limit-cycle amplitudes of thermoacoustic instabilities. However, the effects that govern the transfer function magnitude at low and high amplitudes are not yet fully understood. It is shown in the present work that the flame response at perfectly premixed conditions is strongly influenced by the growth rate of vortical structures in the shear layers. An experimental study in a generic swirl-stabilized combustor was conducted in order to measure the amplitude-dependent flame transfer function and the corresponding flow fields subjected to acoustic forcing. The applied measurement techniques included the multi-microphone-method, high-speed OH*-chemiluminescence measurements, and high-speed particle image velocimetry. The flame response and the corresponding flow fields are assessed for three different swirl numbers at 196 Hz forcing frequency. The results show that forcing leads to significant changes in the time-averaged reacting flow fields and flame shapes. A triple decomposition is applied to the time-resolved data, which reveals that coherent velocity fluctuations at the forcing frequency are amplified considerably stronger in the shear layers at low forcing amplitudes than at high amplitudes, which is an indicator for a nonlinear saturation process. The strongest saturation is found for the lowest swirl number, where the forcing additionally detached the flame. For the highest swirl number, the saturation of the vortex amplitude is weaker. Overall, the amplitude-dependent vortex amplification resembles the characteristics of the flame response very well. An application of a linear stability analysis to the time-averaged flow fields at increasing forcing amplitudes yields the decreasing growth rates of shear flow instabilities at the forcing frequency. It therefore successfully predicts a saturation at high forcing amplitudes and demonstrates that the mean flow field and its modifications are of utmost importance for the growth of vortices in the shear layers. Moreover, the results clearly show that the amplification of vortices in the shear layers is an important driver for heat release fluctuations and their saturation.
Acoustic radiation force due to a diverging wave: Demonstration and theory
Authors: Denardo Bruce C. , Freemyers Stanley G. , Schock Michael P. , Sundem Scott T.
Published: January 2014

A radiation force is the time-averaged force exerted by any kind of wave on a body. In the case of a divergent traveling acoustic wave, it is known that a relatively small rigid body can experience a radiation force that is directed toward the source. We show that this effect can be readily demonstrated with a styrofoam sphere pendulum near a horizontally directed loudspeaker that is emitting sound of sufficiently high amplitude and low frequency. The attraction is surprising because repulsive forces are exerted by a traveling plane wave and by an outward jetting or “wind” from the loudspeaker. We argue that the attractive force near a source that is small compared to the wavelength can be roughly understood and calculated as a time-averaged Bernoulli effect, if scattering is ignored. The result is within a factor of two of rigorous published results based on scattering calculations, when these results are specialized to the case of a rigid body whose average density is much greater than the density of the fluid. However, repulsion occurs when the average density of the body is less than the density of the fluid, in which case our Bernoulli result completely fails.
Wave packet scattering from time-varying potential barriers in one dimension
Authors: Dimeo Robert M.
Published: January 2014

We discuss a solution of the time-dependent Schrödinger equation that incorporates absorbing boundary conditions and a method for extracting the reflection and transmission probabilities for wave packets interacting with time-dependent potential barriers. We apply the method to a rectangular barrier that moves with constant velocity, an oscillating rectangular barrier, a locally periodic barrier with an amplitude modulated by a traveling wave, and a locally periodic potential with an amplitude modulated by a standing wave. Visualizations of the reflection phenomena are presented with an emphasis on understanding these systems from their dynamics. Applications to non-stationary neutron optics experiments are discussed briefly.
A simple webcam spectrograph
Authors: Lorenz Ralph D.
Published: January 2014

A spectrometer is constructed with an optical fiber, a webcam, and an inexpensive diffraction grating. Assembly takes a matter of minutes, and the instrument is able to produce quantitative spectra of incandescent and fluorescent sources, lasers, and light-emitting diodes. Examples of data analyses, carried out with free software, are discussed.
A Paleogenomic Perspective on Evolution and Gene Function: New Insights from Ancient DNA
Authors: Shapiro B. , Hofreiter M.
Published: January 2014

Background

After three decades of research aimed at recovering DNA from preserved remains, the field of ancient DNA is moving rapidly toward the sequencing and analysis of complete paleogenomes. These data provide a means to better understand evolutionary processes through time, including inference of ancient demography and admixture between lineages, as well as adaptive evolution within populations.

Advances

Key advances enabling a paleogenomic perspective include improvements in DNA extraction and library preparation, as well as methods to enrich ancient libraries for targeted loci. These methods have made it possible to isolate ancient DNA from a far wider range of preservation environments than has been assumed to be attainable, including extending the temporal reach of ancient DNA back to nearly 1 million years.

Outlook

Although relatively few paleogenomes have been published to date, their number is rising rapidly, and it is increasingly clear that the range of specimens from which paleogenomes could be produced is much larger than has been assumed previously. As more data become available, including genomic data from living organisms, the capacity to use paleogenomic data to infer evolutionary change through time will continue to expand, particularly with respect to the evolution of populations and the link between genotype and phenotype.
Risky Ripples Allow Bats and Frogs to Eavesdrop on a Multisensory Sexual Display
Authors: Halfwerk W. , Jones P.L. , Taylor R. C. , Ryan M. J. , Page R. A.
Published: January 2014

Animal displays are often perceived by intended and unintended receivers in more than one sensory system. In addition, cues that are an incidental consequence of signal production can also be perceived by different receivers, even when the receivers use different sensory systems to perceive them. Here we show that the vocal responses of male túngara frogs (
Physalaemus pustulosus
) increase twofold when call-induced water ripples are added to the acoustic component of a rival’s call. Hunting bats (
Trachops cirrhosus
) can echolocate this signal by-product and prefer to attack model frogs when ripples are added to the acoustic component of the call. This study illustrates how the perception of a signal by-product by intended and unintended receivers through different sensory systems generates both costs and benefits for the signaler.
Strong Ground Motion Prediction Using Virtual Earthquakes
Authors: Denolle M. A. , Dunham E. M. , Prieto G. A. , Beroza G. C.
Published: January 2014

Sedimentary basins increase the damaging effects of earthquakes by trapping and amplifying seismic waves. Simulations of seismic wave propagation in sedimentary basins capture this effect; however, there exists no method to validate these results for earthquakes that have not yet occurred. We present a new approach for ground motion prediction that uses the ambient seismic field. We apply our method to a suite of magnitude 7 scenario earthquakes on the southern San Andreas fault and compare our ground motion predictions with simulations. Both methods find strong amplification and coupling of source and structure effects, but they predict substantially different shaking patterns across the Los Angeles Basin. The virtual earthquake approach provides a new approach for predicting long-period strong ground motion.
The HydG Enzyme Generates an Fe(CO)
2
(CN) Synthon in Assembly of the FeFe Hydrogenase H-Cluster
Authors: Kuchenreuther Jon M. , Myers William K. , Suess Daniel L. M. , Stich Troy A. , Pelmenschikov Vladimir , Shiigi Stacey A. , Cramer Stephen P. , Swartz James R. , Britt R. David , George Simon J.
Published: January 2014

Three iron-sulfur proteins–HydE, HydF, and HydG–play a key role in the synthesis of the [2Fe]
H
component of the catalytic H-cluster of FeFe hydrogenase. The radical
S
-adenosyl-
l
-methionine enzyme HydG lyses free tyrosine to produce
p
-cresol and the CO and CN
−
ligands of the [2Fe]
H
cluster. Here, we applied stopped-flow Fourier transform infrared and electron-nuclear double resonance spectroscopies to probe the formation of HydG-bound Fe-containing species bearing CO and CN
−
ligands with spectroscopic signatures that evolve on the 1- to 1000-second time scale. Through study of the
13
C,
15
N, and
57
Fe isotopologs of these intermediates and products, we identify the final HydG-bound species as an organometallic Fe(CO)
2
(CN) synthon that is ultimately transferred to apohydrogenase to form the [2Fe]
H
component of the H-cluster.
Climate Effects of Aerosol-Cloud Interactions
Authors: Rosenfeld Daniel , Sherwood Steven , Wood Robert , Donner Leo
Published: January 2014

Advances in satellite observations and model development are needed to disentangle the complex interactions of aerosols and clouds and their effects on climate.
Lifting the Fog of Complexity
Authors: Morr Dirk K.
Published: January 2014

Combining surface- and bulk-sensitive experimental probes may help to solve the complexity underlying high-temperature superconductivity.

[Also see Reports by

Comin
et al.

and

da Silva Neto
et al.

]
Extraordinary Color Vision
Authors: Land Michael F. , Osorio Daniel
Published: January 2014

The compound eyes of mantis shrimps see color in a fundamentally different way from other animals.

[Also see Report by

Thoen
et al.

]
The Fiery Side of HIV–Induced T Cell Death
Authors: Gaiha Gaurav D. , Brass Abraham L.
Published: January 2014

A cytosolic protein that senses fragments of HIV-1 DNA triggers the death of uninfected CD4 T cells.

[Also see Report by

Monroe
et al.

]
NIH Is Losing Its Funding Edge, 2014 Budget Suggests
Authors: Mervis Jeffrey
Published: January 2014

The 2014 budget suggests that the National Institutes of Health is losing its place as first among equals when Congress has additional money to spend on research.
Nano-Imaging Feud Sets Online Sites Sizzling
Authors: Service Robert F.
Published: January 2014

Researchers on both sides of a nanoscience dispute are claiming that recently published papers settle the debate in their favor, and one is charging his opponents with cyberbullying.
Historic Patent on Embryonic Stem Cells Faces Scrutiny
Authors: Marshall Eliot
Published: January 2014

A California advocacy group, Consumer Watchdog, is arguing in a top U.S. appeals court that stem cells isolated by James Thomson should never have been patented.
The Epigenetics Heretic
Authors: Kaiser Jocelyn
Published: January 2014

Michael Skinner's claim that chemicals can cause changes to gene expression that persist across multiple generations of animals has stirred excitement—and outrage.
Serodiagnosis of Equine Leptospirosis by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay Using Four Recombinant Protein Markers
Authors: Ye Cuilian , Yan Weiwei , McDonough Patrick L. , McDonough Sean P. , Mohamed Hussni , Divers Thomas J. , Chang Yung-Fu , Yang Zhibang
Published: January 2014

Leptospirosis, caused byLeptospiraspp., is one of the most common zoonotic diseases in the world. We tested four recombinant proteins ofLeptospira interrogans, namely, rLipL21, rLoa22, rLipL32, and rLigACon4-8, to evaluate their potential for use as antigens for the diagnosis of equine leptospirosis. We employed equine sera (n= 130) that were microscopic agglutination test (MAT) negative and sera (n= 176) that were MAT positive for the 5 serovars that most commonly cause equine leptospirosis. The sensitivity and specificity of ELISA compared to MAT were 82.39% and 86.15%, respectively, for LigACon4-8, 77.84% and 92.31%, respectively, for Loa22, 77.84% and 86.15%, respectively, for LipL32, and 84.66% and 83.85%, respectively, for LipL21. When one of the two antigens was test positive, the sensitivity and specificity of ELISA were 93.75% and 78.46%, respectively, for rLigACon4-8 and LipL32, 93.18% and 76.15%, respectively, for rLigACon4-8 and LipL21, 89.77% and 80.77%, respectively, for rLigACon4-8 and Loa22, 91.48% and 78.46%, respectively, for LipL21 and Loa22, 93.75% and 76.92%, respectively, for LipL21 and LipL32, and 90.34% and 80.77%, respectively, for Loa22 and LipL32. In conclusion, we have developed an indirect ELISA utilizing rLigACon4-8, rLoa22, rLipL32, and rLipL21 as diagnostic antigens for equine leptospirosis. The use of four antigens in the ELISA was found to be sensitive and specific, the assay was easy to perform, and the results concurred with the results of the standardLeptospiraMAT.
Flagellin A Toll-Like Receptor 5 Agonist as an Adjuvant in Chicken Vaccines
Authors: Gupta Shishir Kumar , Bajwa Preety , Deb Rajib , Chellappa Madhan Mohan , Dey Sohini
Published: January 2014

Chicken raised under commercial conditions are vulnerable to environmental exposure to a number of pathogens. Therefore, regular vaccination of the flock is an absolute requirement to prevent the occurrence of infectious diseases. To combat infectious diseases, vaccines require inclusion of effective adjuvants that promote enhanced protection and do not cause any undesired adverse reaction when administered to birds along with the vaccine. With this perspective in mind, there is an increased need for effective better vaccine adjuvants. Efforts are being made to enhance vaccine efficacy by the use of suitable adjuvants, particularly Toll-like receptor (TLR)-based adjuvants. TLRs are among the types of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) that recognize conserved pathogen molecules. A number of studies have documented the effectiveness of flagellin as an adjuvant as well as its ability to promote cytokine production by a range of innate immune cells. This minireview summarizes our current understanding of flagellin action, its role in inducing cytokine response in chicken cells, and the potential use of flagellin as well as its combination with other TLR ligands as an adjuvant in chicken vaccines.