bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular Validation of a Morphological Character for Distinguishing Between the Armored Scale Insects Chionaspis pinifoliae and Chionaspis heterophyllae (Hemiptera: Diaspididae)
Authors: Philpott Dominic E , Berlocher Stewart H , Mitchell Robert F , Hanks Lawrence M
Published: May 2009

The armored scale insects Chionaspis pinifoliae (Fitch) and Chionaspis heterophyllae Cooley (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) overlap broadly in host range and geographic distribution and are so similar in morphology that they can be distinguished only by a subtle morphological character of the adult females: the form of the median pygidial lobes. However, this character is quite variable for both species. We used allozyme electrophoresis and DNA sequencing of a region that included the mitochondrial genes COI and COII to determine whether two species really exist and, if so, whether the morphology of the pygidial lobes is a reliable character to use to discriminate between them. Material for genetic analysis was collected as third instar females from five Illinois populations of each species (as identified by morphology of the pygidial lobes). Chionaspis species were difficult to analyze electrophoretically, but fixed allelic differences were found at three allozyme loci: malic acid dehydrogenase (Mdh), phosphoglucose isomerase (Pgi), and an esterase (Est). The 572-bp (alignment length) mitochondrial region was invariant within species but differed between the species for both base substitutions (p-distance = 0.091) and insertion-deletion differences. Estimated divergence time was at least 3.8 million yr. The consistent absence of heterozygotes at the three allozyme loci and the large mitochondrial sequence difference confirms that the morphology of the pygidial lobes is a reliable and convenient character for identifying C. pinifoliae and C. heterophyllae and supports the hypothesis that they are not only separate, but very old species.
Rhamphomyia (Diptera: Empididae) From Israel
Authors: Barták Miroslav , Kubík Štěpán
Published: May 2009

Species of the genus Rhamphomyia (Diptera: Empididae) from Israel are reviewed. Rhamphomyia (s. str.) furmani sp. n. (Israel) and Rhamphomyia (s. str.) hermonensis sp. n. (Israel) are described and illustrated. Rhamphomyia (Holoclera) tenuipesBecker, 1907; Rhamphomyia (Holoclera) biserialisCollin, 1960; and Rhamphomyia (Pararhamphomyia) intersitaCollin, 1960 are redescribed. Rhamphomyia (s. str.) sulcatella Collin, 1926 and Rhamphomyia (s. str.) karamanensisBarták, Ciftci et Hasbenli, 2007 are reported from Israel for the first time.
First Description of Immature Stages of Tribe Mayetiini: The Larva and Pupa of Mayetia pearsei (Staphylinidae: Pselaphinae: Mayetiini)
Authors: Carlton Christopher E , Watrous L E
Published: May 2009

Approximately 9,100 species belonging to the staphylinid beetle subfamily Pselaphinae have been described based on adults, but the larvae of only 19 species and 15 genera have been described in sufficient detail for systematic study, and the pupa of only a single species has been described. Larvae of the euplectine tribe Mayetiini (152 species, all in the genus Mayetia) have not been described previously. The larva and pupa of Mayetia pearsei Schuster et al. are described herein based on two larvae, a cast exuvium, and five pupae from soil wash samples containing numerous adults of the species. Larvae are distinguished from other described larvae of pselaphines based on the following combination of characters: eversible frontal vesicle simple, sac-like, with fine, dense terminal papillae; stemmata absent; epicranial stem absent; antenna two segmented, segment two bearing unbranched, elongate, sinuate sensorium; mesothoracic spiracle with large, fusiform peritreme; abdominal spiracles absent; A9 with V-shaped, apical emargination between short, fixed urogomphi. Pupae are similar to those of the European pselaphine Plectophloeus fischeri (Aubé) in having elongate prothoracic setate processes and spinose tubercles covering the antennae. The pupal description may represent the smallest coleopteran pupa described to date. Larvae and pupae of M. pearsei were found during July and August, whereas adults were found July-October in loamy sand in the floodplain of the Meramec River, Crawford County, MO.
Competition and Intraguild Predation Among Three Species of Coccinellids (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)
Authors: Moser Susan E , Obrycki John J
Published: May 2009

The establishment of exotic coccinellid species may be related to the decline in native coccinellid species within the United States. Coccinellids may interact indirectly by competing for shared resources and directly through intraguild predation. Prior studies have examined pairwise interactions among species and although several coccinellid species typically co-exist within habitats, multi-species interactions have rarely been investigated. To examine how aphid prey levels influence interspecific interactions among a multispecies assemblage, the exotic coccinellids, Harmonia axyridis (Pallas) and Coccinella septempunctata (L.) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), and a native coccinellid species, Coleomegilla maculata (DeGeer) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), were paired or placed in groups containing three heterospecific larvae and fed 2.4, 12.0, or 24.0 mg of aphids per larva daily. Larval survival, developmental time, and adult weight of individuals were measured. Greater amounts of prey typically resulted in increased adult weights and shorter developmental times. When Coleomegilla maculata and Coccinella septempunctata were paired, Coleomegilla maculata had higher survival rates at low prey levels and Coccinella septempunctata had higher survival at mid- and high prey levels. When the three species were combined, Coccinella septempunctata and Coleomegilla maculata had similar survival rates (17%) at low prey levels; at mid- and high prey levels, Coccinella septempunctata survival increased (58–88%), but Coleomegilla maculata survival remained similar (17–21%). Survival of H. axyridis was not affected by competitors. Even though intraguild predation occurs among these species, the responses to competitors varied based on prey level, coccinellid species, and the number of interacting larvae.
Effect of Prey Availability on Development and Reproduction of the Predatory Lacewing Dichochrysa prasina (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae)
Authors: Pappas M L , Broufas G D , Koveos D S
Published: May 2009

Preimaginal development and reproduction of the predatory lacewing Dichochrysa prasina Burmeister (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) when its larvae had access at different nymphal numbers of the aphid Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) were studied under laboratory conditions at 25 ± 1°C and a photoperiod of 16:8 (L:D) h. Preimaginal development decreased from 46.0 to 31.6 d for females and from 41.4 to 31.5 d for males, with an increase in the number of available aphids from five to 110 nymphs of M. persicae per larva of D. prasina. Preimaginal survival ranged from 55.8% at the lowest to 86.0% at the highest aphid numbers. Prey consumption by D. prasina larvae increased with an increase in aphid numbers, with the third instar being the most voracious. Longevity of D. prasina females ranged from 38.2 to 54.5 d, and total egg production ranged from 59.2 to 369.7 eggs per female at the lowest and highest prey numbers tested, respectively. The estimated values for the intrinsic rate of increase (rm) were affected by prey availability and the highest rm (0.0838) was recorded at the highest prey number tested. Based on the results of the current study, it is likely that D. prasina can develop and reproduce either at high or low density aphid populations in the field, and effectively suppress them.
Biology and Co-Occurrence of Psyllobora vigintimaculata taedata (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) and Powdery Mildews in an Urban Landscape of California
Authors: Sutherland Andrew M , Parrella M P
Published: May 2009

Biological control of powdery mildew (PM) plant pathogens may offer a solution to chemical control problems such as resistance, worker safety, and effects on nontarget organisms. Unfortunately, mildew consumption by arthropods is seldom studied and poorly understood. The coccinellid tribe Halyziini is composed entirely of obligate consumers of various PM fungi and is represented in the Western Hemisphere by members of the genus Psyllobora Chevrolat. In western North America Psyllobora vigintimaculata Say feeds on PM in natural and managed systems. Here, we report the insect's biology and phenology through the use of a laboratory colony, rectangular degree-day calculation and field sampling in an urban landscape. The natural presence of this beetle in Davis, CA, has been documented over the course of 2 yr through weekly presence-absence and density sampling of native and exotic plants prone to PM. Sampling data indicates activity from late February through mid-December. The insect was observed feeding on the PM of >25 plant species in 13 different plant families. There is a positive relationship between PM severity and the relative density of insects, suggesting an aggregative numerical response. The potential of P. vigintimaculata for biological control and the possibility of using this insect as an indicator of PM in horticultural systems are both discussed.
Changes in Composition of Culturable Bacteria Community in the Gut of the Formosan Subterranean Termite Depending on Rearing Conditions of the Host
Authors: Husseneder C , Berestecky J M , Grace J K
Published: May 2009

The hindgut of feeding termites that feed on wood and litter contains a diverse population of bacteria and protists that contribute to the carbon, nitrogen, and energy requirements of the termite. For understanding the ecological balance in the termite gut, detailed knowledge about the composition of the microbial gut flora is imperative, i.e., the numbers and relative proportions of the microbial taxa and the variability in the microbial composition among different termite colonies and living conditions of termites should be described. Therefore, we isolated and enumerated eight bacterial morphotypes from the gut of the Formosan subterranean termite, Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki. Five morphotypes (three isolates of lactic acid bacteria, isolates of the family Enterobacteriaceae and isolates belonging to the genus Dysgonomonas) were found frequently in all termite colonies. Three additional morphotypes were found sporadically and were considered to be transient flora. We compared the proportions of the three lactic acid bacteria isolates and the Enterobacteriaceae among three different termite colonies. Furthermore, we investigated the shift in proportions of these four major morphotypes depending on whether bacteria were isolated from freshly collected termites or from termites reared in the laboratory under seminatural conditions (in arenas on wood) or artificial conditions (in petri dishes on filter paper). Differences in the culturable microbial composition were not significant among termite colonies, or between field-collected termites and termites reared under seminatural conditions in the laboratory. However, we found significant shifts in the microbial composition between field-collected termites and termites reared on filter paper.
Biology and Life History of Argopistes tsekooni (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in China, a Promising Biological Control Agent of Chinese Privet
Authors: Zhang Yanzhuo , Sun Jianghua , Hanula James L
Published: May 2009

The biology and life history of Argopistes tsekooni Chen (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), a potential biological control agent of Chinese privet, Ligustrum sinense Lour., was studied under laboratory and outdoor conditions in Huangshan City of Anhui Province, China, in 2006. A. tsekooni larvae are leafminers that undergo three instars. The first two instars feed exclusively within the leaf. The third instar feeds within the leaf until larval development is complete and then falls to the ground where it burrows into the soil to pupate. Larval development is completed within a single mine. Adult A. tsekooni is also a foliage feeder, consuming 8.32 ± 0.96 mm2 of privet leaf per day. A female lays an average of 27.8 ± 5.4 eggs within 30 d. A. tsekooni overwinters as an adult and had three overlapped generations in Anhui Province, an area similar in climate to Atlanta, GA. Biological attributes of A. tsekooni, such as high damage levels caused by larvae and adults and multiple overlapping generations per year, suggest that this flea beetle is a good candidate for biological control of Chinese privet in the United States.
Behavioral Response of Mantid Hierodula patellifera to Wind as an Antipredator Strategy
Authors: Watanabe H , Yano E
Published: May 2009

We tested the hypothesis that the mantid Hierodula patellifera (Serville) sways its body to mimic trembling leaves in the wind as an antipredator strategy. In the field, walking and bodyswaying behavior were observed more frequently when the wind blew harder; mantids began walking and swaying as wind velocity increased. In the laboratory, walking and swaying behavior were observed more frequently under windy than under windless conditions, and mantids walked and swayed more frequently when wind velocity was variable than under constant velocity conditions. The discovery rate of the prey mantids by predators was significantly lower on swaying leaves than on fixed leaves. Our results thus indicate that mantids responded actively to wind, and we suggest that walking and body-swaying behaviors are adaptive in reducing the risk of predation.
Antennal Sensilla ofTamarixia radiata(Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), a Parasitoid ofDiaphorina citri(Hemiptera: Psyllidae)
Authors: Onagbola Ebenezer O , Boina Dhana Raj , Hermann Sara L , Stelinski Lukasz L
Published: May 2009

Tamarixia radiata (Waterston) (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) is an effective idiobiont ectoparasitoid of the psyllid Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Psyllidae), vector of the huanglongbing (citrus greening disease) pathogen. We examined the external and functional morphology of the antennal sensilla of adult male and female T. radiata by using scanning and transmission electron microscopy, respectively, to gain insights into the behavioral ecology of this parasitoid. The geniculate antennae of male and female T. radiata were composed of a long scapula-shaped scape with a basal radicula, a barrel-shaped pedicel, and a long flagellum with a basal ring-like annulus. Five morphologically distinct sensilla, including two types of aporous trichoid sensilla (AST-1 and AST-2), one multiporous trichoid sensillum (MST), one multiporous placoid sensillum (MPS), and one aporous basiconic capitate peg sensillum were identified on the antennae of both sexes. The antennal structures of T. radiata were sexually dimorphic. Male antennae consisted of four funicular flagellomeres and possessed a greater number of olfactory MST than female antennae, suggesting their possible function in perception of mate-related volatile cues. Female antennae were characterized by three funicular flagellomeres and a greater number of MPS than male antennae, suggesting their possible function in the perception of host-related volatile cues. The results are discussed in relation to plausible roles of the identified sensilla in mate and host location by this important parasitoid species.
Vibrational Communication Between the Sexes in Diaphorina citri (Hemiptera: Psyllidae)
Authors: Wenninger Erik J , Hall David G , Mankin Richard W
Published: May 2009

We examined the substrate-borne vibrational signals used in communication between the sexes in Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Psyllidae), a vector of huanglongbing (an economically devastating disease of citrus), in an anechoic chamber and an olfactometer. Males and females both primarily produced simple, low-amplitude vibrational signals at multiples of 170-250 Hz, ranging in duration from 140 to 700 ms. The vibrational frequencies of males and females were negatively correlated with mass, but the correlation was statistically significant only for males. Females replied to male calls within an interval of 0.3-1.2 s. Such signals are within the ranges of signals observed for other psyllids. Female-female interactions were occasionally observed. Intervals between male calls were not significantly different whether or not females replied. In an olfactometer, calling rate did not differ between virgin males exposed to odors from virgin females on citrus versus those exposed only to clean air. However, the latent period for initialization of calling was significantly shorter for males exposed to clean air, suggesting that in the absence of olfactory cues psyllids might be more inclined to use acoustic signals to communicate with conspecifics. Moreover, calling rate and latency to initialization of calling were positively and negatively correlated, respectively, with male age, suggesting that males are more likely to call the longer they remain unmated.
Floral Characteristics of Ficus curtipes and the Oviposition Behavior of Its Pollinator Fig Wasp
Authors: Zhang F P , Peng Y Q , Compton S G , Yang D R
Published: May 2009

Fig wasps (Hymenoptera: Agaonidae) can only develop inside the fruit (figs) of fig trees (Moraceae; Ficus spp.). Figs are hollow, rounded structures lined on the inside by numerous tiny flowers. To lay their eggs, female fig wasps enter the figs and typically walk around on a platform of stigmas (synstigma) from which they insert their ovipositors through the stigmas and down the styles before reaching the ovules, where they oviposit. Previous studies have described fig wasp oviposition behavior in those Ficus species with a synstigma and have related ovipositor lengths to style lengths accordingly. Here, we show that this oviposition pattern is not universal within Ficus and that variation in fig architecture leads to the modification of oviposition behavior. Figs of the monoecious Asian fig tree F. curtipes and relatives (subsection Conosycea) lack a synstigma, which is replaced by an irregular mass of elongate stigmas. The ovipositor of the pollinator Eupristina sp. is sufficiently long to reach all the ovules. Despite this, and unlike other fig wasps, they do not oviposit via the top of the stigmas, but insert their ovipositors through the stigmal bases. Oviposition behavior in fig wasps is therefore responsive to variation in floral structure within their host figs.
Sex Pheromone Investigation of Anastrepha serpentina (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: Robacker David C , Aluja Martin , Cossé Allard A , Sacchetti Patrizia
Published: May 2009

Attraction of virgin female Anastrepha serpentine Wiedemann (Diptera: Tephritidae) to the odor of calling males was demonstrated. This sex pheromone-mediated attraction occurred during the latter half of a 13-h photophase but not during the first half of the day. Two major components of emissions of calling males, 2,5-dimethylpyrazine (DMP) and 3,6-dihydro-2,5-dimethylpyrazine (DHDMP), and trimethylpyrazine (TMP), a minor component, were tested for pheromonal activity. DMP and TMP elicited antennal responses using electroantennogram assays, but no response was observed for DHDMP. DMP and combinations of DMP and TMP were not attractive in laboratory bioassays. Bioassays of DHDMP were complicated by its instability making purification of the compound unfeasible. Bioassays of DHDMP in unpurified form were further complicated by the presence of reaction byproducts and unreacted reagent in crude preparations of the DHDMP. However, statistical analysis indicated that combinations of 100–500 ng of DHDMP in mixtures with DMP as the major component elicited attraction in laboratory bioassays with sexually active female flies. Taking into account all of the data, we could not conclude that any of the chemicals emitted by males are pheromones, but based on female fly responses to mixtures of DHDMP and DMP, this is the most likely scenario.
Centrally administered adrenomedullin 5 activates oxytocin-secreting neurons in the hypothalamus and elevates plasma oxytocin level in rats
Authors: Otsubo Hiroki , Hyodo Susumu , Hashimoto Hirofumi , Kawasaki Makoto , Suzuki Hitoshi , Saito Takeshi , Ohbuchi Toyoaki , Yokoyama Toru , Fujihara Hiroaki , Matsumoto Tetsuro , Takei Yoshio , Ueta Yoichi
Published: May 2009

We examined the effects of i.c.v. administration of adrenomedullin 5 (AM5) on the brain of conscious rats. We used porcine AM5 in the present study because rat AM5 has not been detected. We observed Fos-like immunoreactivity (LI) in the hypothalamus and brainstem of conscious rats after i.c.v. administration of AM5 (2 nmol/rat). Fos-LI, measured at 90 min post-AM5 injection, was observed in various brain areas, including the supraoptic (SON) and the paraventricular nuclei (PVN). Dual immunostaining for Fos/oxytocin (OXT) and Fos/arginine vasopressin (AVP) revealed that OXT-LI neurones predominantly colocalized Fos-LI compared with AVP-LI neurones in the SON and the PVN. Plasma OXT levels were significantly increased 5 min after i.c.v. administration of AM5 (1 nmol/rat) compared with vehicle and remained elevated in samples taken at 15 and 30 min without changes in plasma AVP levels at any time. In situ hybridization histochemistry showed that i.c.v. administration of AM5 (0.2, 1 and 2 nmol/rat) caused a marked induction of the expression of the c-fos gene in the SON and the PVN. This induction was significantly but not completely reduced by pretreatment with both the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) antagonist CGRP-(8–37; 3 nmol/rat) and the AM receptor antagonist AM-(22–52; 27 nmol/rat). Although porcine AM5 has not been detected yet in the brain, these results suggest that centrally administered porcine AM5 may activate OXT-secreting neurosecretory cells in the hypothalamus partly through AM/CGRP receptors and elicit secretion of OXT into the systemic circulation in conscious rats.
Oestrogen-induced androgen insufficiency results in a reduction of proliferation and differentiation of spermatogonia in the zebrafish testis
Authors: de Waal Paul P , Leal Marcelo C , García-López Ángel , Liarte Sergio , de Jonge Hugo , Hinfray Nathalie , Brion François , Schulz Rüdiger W , Bogerd Jan
Published: May 2009

Androgens can induce complete spermatogenesis in immature or prepubertal teleost fish. However, many aspects of the role of androgens in adult teleost spermatogenesis have remained elusive. Since oestrogens inhibit androgen synthesis, we used an oestrogen-induced androgen depletion model to identify androgen-dependent stages during adult zebrafish spermatogenesis. Exposure to 10 nM 17β-oestradiol (E2) in vivo at least halved the mass of differentiating germ cells (from type B spermatogonia to spermatids), while type A spermatogonia accumulated. Studies on the cellular dynamics revealed that a reduction of spermatogonial proliferation together with an inhibition of their differentiation to type B spermatogonia were the basis for the oestrogen-mediated disturbance of spermatogenesis. The capacity of the zebrafish testis to produce 11-ketotestosterone as well as the expression of steroidogenesis-related genes was markedly decreased after in vivo oestrogen exposure. Moreover, the androgen-release response to recombinant zebrafish Lh was lost after oestrogen exposure. We conclude that oestrogen exposure caused a state of androgen insufficiency in adult male zebrafish. Since the downregulation of the steroidogenic system as well as the disturbance of spermatogenesis in testicular explants exposed to E2 ex vivo was much less severe than after in vivo exposure, the main inhibitory effect appears to be exerted via feedback inhibition of gonadotropin release. This experimental set-up helped to identify spermatogonial proliferation and their differentiation as androgen targets in adult zebrafish spermatogenesis.
Localisation of GPR30, a novel G protein-coupled oestrogen receptor, suggests multiple functions in rodent brain and peripheral tissues
Authors: Hazell Georgina G J , Yao Song T , Roper James A , Prossnitz Eric R , O'Carroll Anne-Marie , Lolait Stephen J
Published: May 2009

Recently, the G protein-coupled receptor GPR30 has been identified as a novel oestrogen receptor (ER). The distribution of the receptor has been thus far mapped only in the rat central nervous system. This study was undertaken to map the distribution of GPR30 in the mouse brain and rodent peripheral tissues. Immunohistochemistry using an antibody against GPR30 revealed high levels of GPR30 immunoreactivity (ir) in the forebrain (e.g. cortex, hypothalamus and hippocampus), specific nuclei of the midbrain (e.g. the pontine nuclei and locus coeruleus) and the trigeminal nuclei and cerebellum Purkinje layer of the hindbrain in the adult mouse brain. In the rat and mouse periphery, GPR30-ir was detected in the anterior, intermediate and neural lobe of the pituitary, adrenal medulla, renal pelvis and ovary. In situ hybridisation histochemistry using GPR30 riboprobes, revealed intense hybridisation signal for GPR30 in the paraventricular nucleus and supraoptic nucleus (SON) of the hypothalamus, anterior and intermediate lobe of the pituitary, adrenal medulla, renal pelvis and ovary of both rat and mouse. Double immunofluorescence revealed GPR30 was present in both oxytocin and vasopressin neurones of the paraventricular nucleus and SON of the rat and mouse brain. The distribution of GPR30 is distinct from the other traditional ERs and offers an additional way in which oestrogen may mediate its effects in numerous brain regions and endocrine systems in the rodent.
Simulation of Catalytic Dehydrogenation of Cyclohexane in Zeolite Membrane Reactor
Authors: Kumar Shashi , Gaba Tanvi , Kumar Surendra
Published: May 2009

A mathematical model is presented to investigate the performance of tubular catalytic membrane reactor for dehydrogenation of cyclohexane using a FAU type zeolite membrane. The empirical correlations for the permeance of cyclohexane, benzene and hydrogen through FAU type zeolite membrane as a function of temperature have been developed. Three reactor configurations have been considered: conventional fixed bed, full length membrane reactor and hybrid reactor. The reactor performance has been studied in terms of conversion of cyclohexane to produce hydrogen. The observed conversions are ranked in the order: full length membrane reactor > hybrid reactor > fixed bed reactor. The simulation studies have been carried out for two feed conditions: one with hydrogen and another without hydrogen. The effect of cofeeding of hydrogen, sweep gas flow rate variation, and dilution ratio on the conversion of cyclohexane has been investigated in detail. The maximum percent increase in conversion of cyclohexane has been obtained at 473 K in hybrid as well as in membrane reactor. This temperature is also found to be optimum for sweep gas flow rate of 4.5 x 10-5 mol s-1. The conversion is observed to be suppressed by cofeeding of hydrogen and percent reduction is lowest at high temperature of 490 K in membrane reactor. The enhancement in the conversion is observed as a consequence of dilution of the feed with inert gas. The results reveal that hybrid reactor is not necessarily a better choice than the full length membrane reactor. However, at the expense of loss of reactant, hybrid reactor is better than full length membrane reactor.
Ossein Waste: A Potential Raw Material for Protease Production
Authors: Jegannathan Kenthorai Raman , Viruthagiri Thangavelu
Published: May 2009

The objective of this work was to utilize ossein waste (degelatinised bones) from gelatin industry as an innovative substrate for protease enzyme production and to optimize the process parameters of protease production in a batch reactor. Production of protease enzyme was carried out using ossein waste as nitrogen and carbon source. The waste residue was cleaned, ground and sieved to powder. The powder was used as nutrient a for protease production by Bacillus brevis. The fermentation conditions were optimized by studying the effect of various parameters, namely substrate concentration, innoculam size, pH, rpm, and temperature in batch cultivation technique. The maximum production of protease enzyme using ossein waste was found to be 366.3U/ml at 72h for a substrate concentration of 3.5%, 7pH and 130rpm at 350C.
A Neural Network Approach for Identification and Modeling of Delayed Coking Plant
Authors: Zahedi Gholamreza , Lohi Ali , Karami Zohre
Published: May 2009

In this study, an artificial neural network (ANN) modeling of a delayed coking unit (DCU) is proposed. Different data from various DCU have been collected. Feed API and Cat Cracker (CCR) weight percent have been considered as network inputs. Coke, output CCR, light gases, gasoline, gas-oil and C5+ weight percents are the network outputs. 70 percent of the data have been used for training of ANN. Among the Multi Layer Perceptron (MLP) architectures a network with 31 hidden neurons has been found as best MLP predictor. Radial Basis Function (RBF) also has been implemented for identification of the plant. An RBF network with 20 spread was found as best estimator of the DCU. Best RBF network and best MLP network performance in prediction of 30 percent of unseen data were compared. It was found that RBF method has the best generalization capability and was used in DCU modeling.
Researching a Best-Practice End-of-Life Care Model for Canada
Authors: Wilson Donna M. , Birch Stephen , Sheps Sam , Thomas Roger , Justice Christopher , MacLeod Rod
Published: May 2009

De nos jours, la majorité des 220 000 Canadiens qui meurent chaque année, principalement de vieillesse ou des suites de problèmes de santé dégénératifs, n'ont pas accès à des centres de soins palliatifs ou spécialisés en fin de vie. Les programmes de soins palliatifs et d'hospices sont inégalement répartis au Canada, la plupart n'ont qu'une faible capacité de services, et ces services varient considérablement d'un programme à l'autre. Les services de fin de vie sont « les services qui permettent aux familles et aux amis d'aider une personne en phase terminale à vivre ses dernières semaines, ainsi que des services de soutien aux personnes en deuil. » Bien que des services de santé et des services sociaux soient disponibles, la plupart des Canadiens en phase terminale n'ont pas facilement accès à un ensemble complet de services qui pourraient les aider à traverser cette période difficile. La plupart risquent donc d'être soumis en fin de vie à des soins non coordonnés et potentiellement inadéquats. Les personnes en phase terminale sont les plus vulnérables de toutes. Le passage de la vie à la mort est souvent difficile en raison des défis émotionnels et physiques que cela engendre. Bien que le soutien des parents et des amis soit irremplaçable, les soins de fin de vie constituent une obligation publique importante.

Un projet de recherche de synthèse a été mené dans le but de déterminer un modèle des meilleures pratiques de prestation de soins de fin de vie qui favoriserait la coordination et l'intégration de ces soins au Canada. Par le truchement de visites, d'analyses documentaires, de sondages sur le web, et d'une analyse des données sur les soins à domicile, quatre éléments essentiels d'un modèle intégrant les meilleures pratiques en matière de soins en fin de vie au Canada ont été dégagés: 1) universalité, 2) coordination des soins, 3) accès assuré à un vaste éventail de soins de vie de base et spécialisés, et 4) assurance de services de fin de vie peu importe où les soins sont prodigués. Le présent modèle est proposé comme guide pour l'établissement de soins intégrés de fin de vie au Canada.
Perceiving Falls within a Family Context: A Focused Ethnographic Approach
Authors: Kilian Christine , Salmoni Alan , Ward-Griffin Catherine , Kloseck Marita
Published: May 2009

La présente recherche visait à examiner les perceptions de risque des aînés et de leurs enfants adultes en ce qui a trait aux chutes. Nous avons utilisé une méthode ethnographique ciblée et soumis à une entrevue approfondie aînés et enfants adultes. L'analyse thématique a été effectuée afin de déterminer les thèmes à l'intérieur des groupes et de comparer les points de vue des aînés et des enfants adultes. Les résultats ont fait ressortir les différences dans les perceptions et les méthodes d'interaction entre les aînés et leurs enfants adultes. Trois méthodes avaient été adoptées par ces familles, articulées autour des personnes dont les actions étaient dominantes:Actions des parents, Actions partagées, etActions cachées des enfants. Les résultats soulignaient l'importance accordée par les aînés à l'indépendance et l'effet des relations familiales multiples prenant des mesures pour éviter les chutes. La présente étude souligne l'importance d'inclure des points de vue multiples de la famille lors de la recherche portant sur la prévention des blessures chez les aînés.
The Care Needs of Community-Dwelling Seniors Suffering from Advanced Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Wilson Donna M. , Ross Carolyn , Goodridge Donna , Davis Penny , Landreville Alison , Roebuck Kim
Published: May 2009

But: La présente étude visait à déterminer les besoins en matière de soins de santé des aînés du Canada vivant à domicile et souffrant de maladie pulmonaire obstructive chronique (MPOC) avancée.

Données générales: La MPOC est l'une des principales causes de morbidité et de mortalité dans le monde. Bien qu'il soit courant qu'une personne soit hospitalisée lors de l'exacerbation d'un processus morbide et qu'elle ait besoin de soins en phase terminale, la plupart des personnes souffrant de MPOC passent toute leur vie dan la communauté. On sait peu de choses sur les besoins en soins de santé de cette importante population.

Méthodes: La présente étude reposait sur le protocole de recherche: «Quels sont, en matière de soins de santé et de priorités, les besoins et les priorités des aînés souffrant de MPOC en phase terminale?» Nous avons utilisé une méthode ethnographique qualitative pour traiter cette question. Douze aînés vivant dans la communauté dans une ville canadienne et ayant reçu un diagnostic de MPOC avancée ont été interviewés trois fois chez eux au cours d'une période de huit mois en 2006.

Résultats: Trois thèmes ont été dégagés, chacun assorti de besoins concrets en soins de santé: a)autonomie et indépendance par l'adaptation, b) santé stable grâce à des soins intégrés, et c) vivre avec des contraintes. Le thème prédominant était que tous les participants souhaitaient conserver leur indépendance. Cette situation exigeait une adaptation considérable, ainsi que l'aide des autres.

Conclusions: Il est important d'assurer et d'améliorer l'aide si l'on veut éviter des souffrances supplémentaires et réduire les exacerbations exigeant l'hospitalisation, un but particulièrement important étant donné l'incidence élevée et croissante de MPOC avancée. D'autres résultats éclairants révèlent l'importance de l'apprentissage direct de personnes qui vivent presque toute leur vie affligées d'une maladie chronique.
Where Would You Turn for Help? Older Adults' Awareness of Community Support Services
Authors: Denton M. , Ploeg J. , Tindale J. , Hutchison B. , Brazil K. , Akhtar-Danesh N. , Quinlan M. , Lillie J. , Plenderleith J. Millen , Boos L.
Published: May 2009

Les résultats précédents visant la sensibilisation des aînés aux services de soutien communautaires ne s'accordent pas et sont gâchés par l'acquiescence ou des allégations de partialité. Cela étant, la présente étude a utilisé une série de 12 scénarios pour décrire des situations courantes dans lesquelles se retrouvent les aînés pour qui des services de soutien communautaires seraient appropriés. Lors d'une entrevue téléphonique, nous avons lu à 1152 adultes âgés de 50 et plus une série de scénarios et nous leur avons demandé s'ils pouvaient indiquer un organisme communautaire vers lequel ils pourraient se tourner dans cette situation précise. Nous leur avons aussi interrogés sur leurs plus importantes sources de renseignements en matière de services de soutien communautaires. Les résultats indiquent que, si l'on a recours à une méthodologie par scénarios, la sensibilisation aux services de soutien communautaires était beaucoup plus faible qu'on ne l'avait d'abord pensé. Les plus importantes sources de renseignements sur les services de soutien communautaires comprenaient des sources de référence et des renseignements, l'annuaire téléphonique, les bureaux de médecins, et le bouche-à-oreille.
Les obligations de soutien aux personnes âgées : attentes normatives exprimées à l'égard des ex-conjoints et des beaux-enfants
Authors: Rousseau Nicolas , Lavoie Jean-Pierre , Guberman Nancy , Fournier Michel , Béland François , Grenier Lise
Published: May 2009

This study compares the normative expectations of 1315 Québécois survey-takers about the responsibilities of spouses and ex-spouses, on the one hand, and adult children and stepchildren, on the other hand, regarding the support they are to offer an elderly family member with incapacities. The comments of survey-takers in relation to fictional yet concrete scenario descriptions provided a basis with which to identify respondents' expectations along with the social factors surrounding these expectations. The results of this survey suggest that the nature and scale of support-related expectations vary according to the family tie with elderly relative. Expectations toward spouses are high and unmitigated, whereas expectations toward ex-spouses and adult stepchildren appear to be limited. Expectations toward adult children are more pronounced than those exhibited toward stepchildren. Where offspring are specifically concerned, expectations are strongly influenced by the given context; for this category of survey-taker, the demands of support should not interfere with their family life and career.
The Changing Well-Being of Older Adult Registered Indians: An Analysis Using the Registered Indian Human Development Index
Authors: Cooke Martin , Guimond Eric , McWhirter Jennifer
Published: May 2009

Le vieillissement de la population des Indiens inscrits laisse croire que les conditions socioéconomiques et l'état de santé des aînés revêtiront une importance de plus en plus grande pour les collectivités et les responsables de l'élaboration des politiques. Nous avons adapté l'indice du développement humain du Programme des Nations Unies pour le développement à l'aide des données provenant du Recensement du Canada et du Registre des Indiens afin de voir si les améliorations observées au niveau des connaissances, du niveau de vie et de la santé de la population des Indiens inscrits entre 1981 et 2001 sont également observées au sein de la population des Indiens inscrits plus âgés. Nous constatons que les niveaux absolus de bien-être des Indiens inscrits plus âgés se sont améliorés, mais que les écarts avec les autres aînés canadiens se sont accentués, notamment en ce qui a trait au revenu et à l'espérance de vie des hommes.
The treatment of nonobstructive (communicating) hydrocephalus by endoscopic cauterization of the choroid plexuses
Authors: Scarff John E.
Published: May 2009

✓ The author reviews his personal experience with 39 cases of nonobstructive (communicating) hydrocephalus treated by endoscopic cauterization of the choroid plexuses during the period 1942–1965. The paper includes a brief history of the development of this operative method, and a description of the author's ventriculoscope. The operative technique has been described in detail. The operative mortality was 10% overall, 5% in the last 20 cases. Hydrocephalus was initially arrested in 26 cases and has remained so in all cases, with a follow-up period of more than 10 years in 23 patients. Only one case developed a late complication requiring reoperation.
The experimental significance of retained intracranial bone fragments
Authors: Pitlyk Paul J. , Tolchin Sidney , Stewart William
Published: May 2009

✓ The relationship of retained intracerebral sterile bone, unsterile bone, and combined scalp and hair to the development of intracranial abscess was studied in the dog. Sterile bone and unsterile bone were associated with abscess development in 7% of the cases. Scalp-and-fur and scalp-fur-and-bone were associated with abscess formation in 69% of the cases. The study suggests that clusters of retained bone fragments may point to potential areas of contamination by skin and hair that justify reexploration, but that isolated bone fragment may be left in place.
Effect of sexual maturity, adrenalectomy, and castration on experimental cerebral ischemia due to carotid ligation
Authors: Payan Hushang M.
Published: May 2009

✓ Experiments were carried out in young and mature rats to assess the effect of adrenalectomy and/or castration on cerebral ischemia due to carotid ligation, with particular reference to age and sexual maturity. The results indicate that gonadectomy after sexual maturity has no effect on the end result of brain ischemia, whereas resection of the gonads prior to sexual maturity results in a significant number of microscopic ischemic brain lesions. Adrenal resections in mature animals with or without removal of gonads is accompanied by a significant increase in mortality and morbidity, but the mortality is greater when adrenals are removed prior to sexual maturity, particularly when combined with gonadectomy. It appears that the impact of brain ischemia is significantly influenced by hormonal functions of the gonads and adrenals, presumably due to their effect on cerebral blood flow.
A combined technique for treating certain aneurysms of the anterior communicating artery
Authors: Tindall George T. , Kapp John , Odom Guy L. , Robinson Stephen C.
Published: May 2009

✓ Thirty-one patients with aneurysms of the anterior communicating artery that filled from both sides during carotid arteriography were treated by a combined operative procedure consisting of clip-ligation of one proximal anterior cerebral artery followed by gradual occlusion of the opposite common carotid artery with a Crutchfield clamp. In 14 patients, intravascular pressure recordings in the carotid vessels in the neck were obtained both before and immediately after ligation of the anterior cerebral artery. Before ligation the average intravascular pressure reduction was 55%, while after ligation the average reduction was 71%. Of the 31 patients, 22 have had good results and no recurrent hemorrhage. Nine patients died, four from recurrent hemorrhage. Follow-up carotid arteriography in nine patients showed the aneurysm obliterated in six, smaller in one, and unchanged in two. The results of this study indicate that treatment of certain anterior communicating aneurysms by the combined operative approach described is useful.
History of skeletal traction in the treatment of cervical spine injuries
Authors: Loeser John D.
Published: May 2009

✓ Therapy of cervical spine fractures is reviewed from the time of the Egyptians (4000 B.C.) to the present day. Immobilization has been practiced for slightly more than a century; devices for exerting traction upon the skull have been in use for 37 years. The Renaissance surgeon, Fabricus Hildanus, designed a tool for exerting traction upon the cervical vertebrae, but this method did not become popular. Until the 20th century, few physicians considered the therapy of this common injury.
Cold dysesthesia: a symptom of extramedullary tumors of the spinal cord
Authors: Beatty Robert A.
Published: May 2009

✓ Two cases of cold dysesthesia associated with extramedullary cervical spinal cord tumors have been used to introduce a discussion of related cases and theories. It is postulated that extramedullary pressure on the relatively mobile cervical spinal cord caused the disagreeable sensations when the neck was flexed or extended.
Percutaneous aspiration of cystic lesions of the spinal cord
Authors: Booth Anthony E. , Kendall Brian E.
Published: May 2009

✓ Four patients are presented, each of whom had percutaneous aspiration of an intramedullary cyst of the spinal cord performed as a therapeutic measure. This method, its advantages, and its limitations are discussed.
Continuous simultaneous monitoring of intraventricular and cervical subarachnoid cerebrospinal fluid pressure to indicate development of cerebral or tonsillar herniation
Authors: Kaufmann Gary E. , Clark Kemp
Published: May 2009

✓ A simultaneous continuous recording of intraventricular and cervical subarachnoid cerebrospinal fluid pressures was made in each of 20 patients who were comatose or decerebrate. All patients with a pressure gradient greater than 10 mm Hg died and at autopsy were found to have evidence of severe transtentorial and/or tonsillar herniation.
Repair of cerebrospinal fluid fistulas using a tissue adhesive
Authors: VanderArk Gary D. , Pitkethly David T. , Ducker Thomas B. , Kempe Ludwig G.
Published: May 2009

✓ Isobutyl 2-cyanoacrylate (IBC) is the outstanding compound presently available for use as a tissue adhesive. One of the greatest needs for a biologic glue in neurosurgery is in the repair of cerebrospinal fluid fistulas. Experience with 14 such cases at the Walter Reed Army Hospital using the technique described shows that IBC is both safe and effective.
Experimental intracranial hypertension due to vascular blockade
Authors: McQueen J. Donald , Jelsma Lawrence F. , Bacci Fernando , Pereira Isauro
Published: May 2009

✓ High intracranial hypertension was induced in dogs by intracarotid injections of oil. Cerebrospinal fluid pressures continued to rise as Cushing pressor responses were evoked, but were not exceeded by the blood pressure. Transmission of blood pressure through a dilated vascular bed has been suggested as the mechanism. There was no correlation between levels of cerebral edema and the rise in intracranial pressure. This increase in pressure due to vascular blockade has been differentiated from that caused by subarachnoid blockade.
Multiple cranial nerve signs from supratentorial tumors
Authors: Needham Charles W. , Bertrand Gilles , Myles S. Terence
Published: May 2009

✓ A case of sphenoid meningioma with multiple cranial nerve signs is described in which the olfactory and optic brain tracts were involved unilaterally by the local effects of the tumor. All true cranial nerves except the eleventh were bilaterally, symmetrically, and selectively involved as a result of the general pressure effects of the tumor. The mechanisms that can produce this syndrome of multiple cranial nerve failure by a sequence of various brain shifts and hernias, hydrocephalus, and foraminal impaction, are discussed and demonstrated.
Congenital defects of the scalp
Authors: Lynch Peter J. , Kahn Edgar A.
Published: May 2009

✓ The problem of congenital scalp defects is presented by way of two case reports and a review of related concepts. The need for immediate repair of large defects within a few hours of birth is emphasized. The use of rotation skin flaps is reported as the preferable plastic procedure.
Significance of surgery for temporal lobe epilepsy in childhood and adolescence
Authors: Falconer Murray A.
Published: May 2009

✓ The problem of childhood temporal lobe epilepsy is reviewed and illustrated from three cases in which the patients were freed from fits by temporal lobectomy. The pathological lesion (mesial temporal sclerosis) is discussed and the likelihood that many adult cases have gone unrecognized in childhood is emphasized.
Intracranial arterial spasm in the dog
Authors: Wilkins Robert H. , Levitt Philip
Published: May 2009

✓ A chronic canine model for the investigation of intracranial arterial spasm was designed and used to study spasm produced by rapid and slow cisternal injections of fresh or heparinized autogenous whole blood, or serum from incubated autogenous blood. Spasm so produced begins within 10 minutes after the injection and lasts from several hours to days. It affects primarily the major arteries of the circle of Willis, especially the proximal anterior cerebral arteries, and it does not seem to involve the extradural arterial tree.