bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non‐dominant leg training improves the bilateral motor performance of soccer players
Authors: Haaland E. , Hoff J.
Published: May 2003

The aim of this experiment was to evaluate bilateral motor performance effects from training the non‐dominant leg of competitive soccer players. The subjects were 39 soccer players, 15–20 years of age, performance‐matched and randomly divided into a training group (n = 18) and a control group (n = 21) both belonging to the same team. Both groups were tested by using two standardised foot‐tapping tests and three soccer‐specific tests. The training intervention consisted of the experimental group participating in all parts of their soccer training except full play, using the non‐dominant leg for 8 weeks. Statistical analyses for the soccer‐specific tests revealed that the experimental group improved significantly as compared to the control group from the pre‐test to the post‐test period in their use of the trained non‐dominant leg. Somewhat unexpectedly, the experimental group also improved significantly in the tests, which made use of the dominant side. The standardised foot‐tapping tests revealed similar results. The results might be explained by improved generalised motor programmes, or from a Dynamic Systems Approach, indicating that the actual training relates to the handling of all the information available to the subject in the situation, and that the body self‐organises the motor performance.
Recovery of skeletal muscle contractility and hormonal responses to strength exercise after two weeks of high‐volume strength training
Authors: Raastad T. , Glomsheller T. , Bjøro T. , Hallén J.
Published: May 2003

Exercise induced neuromuscular fatigue, recovery and hormonal responses were studied before (R1) and after (R2) 2 weeks of heavy strength training. Seventeen weight‐trained male students were recruited into a heavy training group (HT, n = 10) and a control group (n = 7). During heavy training HT exercised leg extensors every day while control group exercised twice a week. Test workouts (R1 and R2) were used to induce neuromuscular fatigue and hormonal responses. Acute fatigue after the test workouts was reduced after heavy training in the HT group (P < 0.05) but not in the control group. Twenty‐two hrs after the test workouts recovery from fatigue was not complete before heavy training, but recovery was complete after heavy training in both groups. The relative change in exercise induced cortisol and GH response, from before to after heavy training, was significantly different between groups, but for both hormones alterations in the control groups response was responsible for the between groups difference. IGF‐1 concentration was reduced 22 h after the test workout performed after heavy training in the HT group (P < 0.05). In conclusion, two weeks of high volume strength training attenuated neuromuscular fatigue after a test workout with only minor changes in exercised induced hormone response.
Basic science and clinical studies coincide: active treatment approach is needed after a sports injury
Authors: Kannus P. , Parkkari J. , Järvinen T. L. N. , Järvinen T. A. H. , Järvinen M.
Published: May 2003

The basic response to injury at the tissue level is well known and consists of acute inflammatory phase, proliferative phase, and maturation and remodeling phase. Knowing these phases, the treatment and rehabilitation program of athletes' acute musculoskeletal injuries should use a short period of immobilization followed by controlled and progressive mobilization. Both experimental and clinical trials have given systematic and convincing evidence that this program is superior to immobilization – a good example where basic science and clinical studies do coincide – and therefore active approach is needed in the treatment of these injuries.
Maximal oxygen uptake and power of lower limbs during a competitive season in triathletes
Authors: Galy O. , Manetta J. , Coste O. , Maimoun L. , Chamari K. , Hue O.
Published: May 2003

Background: In order to study the effect of a competitive triathlon season on maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), aerobic power (AeP) and anaerobic performance (AnP) of the lower limbs, eight triathletes performed exercise tests after: (1) a pre‐competition period (Pre‐COMP) (2) a competitive period (COMP), and (3) a low (volume and intensity) training period (Post‐COMP). The tests were a vertical jump‐and‐reach test and an incremental exercise test on a cycle ergometer. Ventilatory data were collected every minute during the incremental test with an automated breath‐by‐breath system and the heart‐rate was monitored using a telemetric system.

Results: No changes in VO2max were observed, whereas AeP decreased after Post‐COMP compared to Pre‐COMP and COMP and AnP decreased during COMP compared to Pre‐COMP and Post‐COMP. In addition, second ventilatory threshold (VT2) and power output at first ventilatory threshold (VT1) and VT2 decreased after Post‐COMP.

Conclusion: This study showed that six weeks of low volume and intensity of training is too long a period to preserve adaptations to training, although a stable maximal oxygen uptake throughout the triathlon season was observed. Moreover, the AnP decrease during COMP was probably in relation with the repetitive nature of the training mode and/or triathlon competitions.
Acute traumatic extension deficit of the knee
Authors: Sarimo J. , Rantanen J. , Heikkilä J. , Orava S.
Published: May 2003

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the events leading to acute traumatic extension deficit of the knee and the arthroscopic findings in these patients. A total of 78 consecutive patients treated in the Turku university hospital during the years 1994–1996 were included. The mean annual incidence of acute traumatic extension deficits of the knee in our study was 1.1 per 10 000 inhabitants. The single most common (33%) event causing the extension deficit was non‐sports related twisting of the knee. Various sports related activities accounted for 42% of the extension deficits, and soccer was the most common sport in this group. In conclusion, acute traumatic extension deficit of the knee is usually a sign of serious intra‐articular damage, and the most likely finding (in 82% of the patients in our study) is either a meniscal rupture, an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture, a patellar dislocation, or a combination of these. The lesions in these knees require prompt evaluation by an orthopaedic surgeon mainly because of the high number of bucket‐handle and menisco‐capsular insertion ruptures of the menisci, which are possibly suitable for repair.
Time course of GLUT4 and AMPK protein expression in human skeletal muscle during one month of physical training
Authors: Langfort J. , Viese M. , Ploug T. , Dela F.
Published: May 2003

Endurance training elicits profound adaptations of skeletal muscle, including increased expression of several proteins. The 5′‐AMP activated protein kinase (AMPK) may be one of these, considering the fact that acute exercise increases AMPK activity. Eight young (26 ± 1 year) lean, healthy males endurance trained one leg (while the other leg remained resting) on an ergometer bicycle for 30 min/day for four weeks (workload corresponding to ∼70% of maximal oxygen uptake). Muscle biopsies were obtained ∼18 h after the previous training session. On day eight GLUT4 protein expression was 36% higher in trained (T) compared with untrained (UT) (P < 0.05), but no further increase was seen at day 14 and 30 despite continuously increasing absolute workloads. Expression of AMPKα2 and actin did not change with training. In contrast, expression of AMPKα1 was 27% higher in T vs. UT muscle (P < 0.05) (measured only on day 30). Conclusions: GLUT4 protein expression increases substantially after seven days of endurance training with no further increase with prolonged training at progressively increasing workloads. AMPKα1 and α2 behave differently in their expression in response to endurance training. AMPKα1 protein content is increased after one month of training, while no change in AMPKα2 and actin expression was detected over the time course of the training period.
Loss of bone mineral of the hip and proximal tibia following rupture of the Achilles tendon
Authors: Therbo M. , Petersen M. M. , Nielsen P. K. , Lund B.
Published: May 2003

In a prospective uncontrolled study 12 patients suffering from a rupture of the Achilles tendon treated operatively with surgical repair and post‐operative immobilization in a short plaster cast for 6 weeks had bilateral measurements of bone mineral content (BMC) of the proximal tibia and bone mineral density (BMD) of the femoral neck and greater trochanter. The measurements were performed by dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DEXA) and scans were performed post‐operatively within 7 days after the operation and with follow up after 6 weeks, 3, 6, and 12 months. In the operated legs, BMC of the proximal tibia showed a progressive decrease reaching a total bone loss of 6.4% (95%‐CL: −10.6%; −2.3%) 1 year after the injury. Bone mineral density at the hip of the operated legs also decreased significantly and 1 year after the injury BMD was 2.5% (95%‐CL: −5.5%; 0.5%) and 6.8% (95%‐CL: −9.8%; −3.7%) below the initial value in, respectively, the femoral neck and greater trochanter. Patients with a previous Achilles tendon rupture must be considered to be some years ahead in their natural osteoporotic process of the bones of the affected legs, and an increased risk of osteoporotic fractures must be considered not to be only theoretical.
Traumatised permanent teeth in 11–16‐year‐old Saudi Arabian children with a sensory impairment attending special schools
Authors: AlSarheed M. , Bedi R. , Hunt N. P.
Published: May 2003

Abstract  – The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of traumatised permanent teeth among sensory (visual (VI) and hearing (HI)) impaired children attending special schools in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. All the dental injuries involved incisor teeth, and trauma was noted in 33 (6.7%) children attending government schools (control group) compared to 7 (9%) VI children and 24 (11.4%) HI children. Differences in the dental trauma only reached statistical significance between the HI and control group (P < 0.05). Gender differences were only apparent in the HI group, with males having higher levels of traumatised teeth. In addition, HI children aged 11–12 years were more prone to trauma than children in the control group of the same age (P < 0.05). In conclusion, sensory impaired children do have a tendency for more dental trauma. However, this was only statistically significant for HI children. Whereas a gender difference was most noticeable for the HI group, with males having higher levels of trauma, this was noticeable by its absence among VI children.
Influence on pH of vehicle containing glycerin used with calcium hydroxide
Authors: Camões Izabel Coelho Gomes , Salles Milton Roedel , Chevitarese Orlando , Gomes Gastão Coelho
Published: May 2003

Abstract  – The pH values of the external aqueous medium, relative to the roots of 41 human premolar teeth filled with Ca(OH)2 in to several vehicles, were evaluated in the present study. After root canal biomechanical preparation and smear‐layer removal, the teeth were stored individually, immersed in flasks containing 800 ml of ultra‐pure deionized water for a period of 118 days. A pH meter was used to analyse the pH values as a function of time. The measurements were divided into phase 1: dissolution, in which all canals remained empty and open in the absence of medicament for 48 days, and phase 2: diffusion, in which the specimens were divided into 10 groups which consisted of three control groups: group 1, water control; group 2, sealing control; and group 3, opened canal dissolution control, and seven experimental groups, with five teeth each, whose canals were filled with Ca(OH)2 paste associated with the following vehicles: group 4, saline solution; group 5, polyethylene glycol (Calen); group 6, glycerin and parachlorophenol (PMCC); group 7, PMCC; group 8, glycerin; group 9, glycerin and formo cresol (FC); and group 10, anesthetic solution. This phase lasted for 70 days. A total of 1058 measurements of the pH values were made. Regression analysis was used for statistical evaluation. The results show that all groups containing polyol in the composition of the paste had a trend to acidification in the interval between filling and 14 days later (therapeutic period) and, at the end of the experiment (1687 h to 70 days after canal filling), the pH was slightly alkaline. We conclude that polyhydroxy alcohol (glycerin and polyethylene glycol, Calen) diffusion enhances acidification of the aqueous medium.
Vertebrate tankyrase domain structure and sterile alpha motif (SAM)-mediated multimerization
Authors: DE RYCKER Manu , VENKATESAN Ranga N. , WEI Chao , PRICE Carolyn M.
Published: May 2003

Tankyrases 1 and 2 are two highly related poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases that interact with a variety of cytoplasmic and nuclear proteins. Both proteins have been implicated in telomere length regulation, insulin signalling and centrosome function. To learn more about their mode of action, we have isolated the chicken tankyrase homologues and examined their interaction partners and subcellular location. Cross-species sequence comparison indicated that tankyrase domain structure is highly conserved and supports division of the ankyrin domain into five subdomains, which are each separated by a highly conserved LLEAAR/K motif. Glutathione S-transferase pull-down experiments demonstrated that the ankyrin domains of both proteins interact with chicken telomere repeat factor 1 (TRF1). Analysis of total cellular and nuclear proteins revealed that cells contain approximately twice as much tankyrase 1 as tankyrase 2. Although ≥ 90% of each protein is present in the cytoplasm, both tankyrase 1 and 2 were detected in the nucleus. The nuclear location together with its ability to interact with TRF1, point to tankyrase 2 having a telomeric function. Yeast two-hybrid and cross-linking experiments show that both tankyrases can multimerize through their sterile-α motif domains. These results indicate that tankyrases may be master scaffolding proteins, capable of regulating assembly of large protein complexes.
Different binding motifs in metabotropic glutamate receptor type 7b for filamin A, protein phosphatase 1C, protein interacting with protein kinase C (PICK) 1 and syntenin allow the formation of multimeric protein complexes
Authors: ENZ Ralf , CROCI Cristina
Published: May 2003

Metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR) type 7-mediated neurotransmission depends critically on its regulation by associated molecules, such as kinases, phosphatases and structural proteins. The splice variants mGluR7a and mGluR7b are defined by different intracellular C-termini, and simultaneous or exclusive binding of interacting proteins to these domains modulates mGluR7-mediated signalling. However, molecular determinants defining binding regions for associated proteins within mGluR7 C-termini are mostly unknown. In the present study, we have mapped the binding domains of four proteins [filamin A, protein phosphatase (PP) 1C, protein interacting with protein kinase C (PICK) 1 and syntenin] interacting with the mGluR7b variant, and show that the alternatively spliced distal part of the mGluR7b C-terminus was sufficient for the interactions. By individual substitution of all mGluR7b isoform-specific amino acids with alanine and construction of a series of deletion constructs, residues important for the interactions were identified and binding regions could be defined. Interestingly, mGluR7b contains an unusual PP1C-binding motif, located at the N-terminus of the binding domains for PICK1 and syntenin. Consistently, binding of PP1C and PICK1 or PP1C and syntenin to mGluR7b was not competitive. Furthermore, PICK1, but not PP1C, interacted physically with syntenin. Our results represent a molecular description of the binding mechanisms of four mGluR7-associated proteins, and indicate the formation of ternary protein complexes composed of mGluR7b, PP1C, PICK1 and syntenin.
Swimming performance, oxygen consumption and excess post‐exercise oxygen consumption in adult transgenic and ocean‐ranched coho salmon
Authors: Lee C. G. , Devlin R. H. , Farrell A. P.
Published: May 2003

Routine oxygen consumption (Mo2) was 35% higher in 1 day starved and 21% higher in 4 day starved adult transgenic coho salmon Oncorhynchus kisutch relative to end of migration ocean‐ranched coho salmon. Critical swimming speed (Ucrit) and Mo2 at Ucrit (Mo2max) were significantly lower in 4 day starved transgenic coho salmon (1·25 BL s−1; 8·79 mg O2 kg−1 min−1) compared to ocean‐ranched coho salmon (1·60 BL s−1; 9·87 mg O2 kg−1 min−1). Transgenic fish swam energetically less efficiently than ocean‐ranched fish, as indicated by a poorer swimming economy at Ucrit (Mo2max). Although Mo2max was lower in transgenic coho salmon, the excess post‐exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC) measured during the first 20 min of recovery was significantly larger in transgenic coho salmon (44·1 mg O2 kg−1) compared with ocean‐ranched coho salmon (34·2 mg O2 kg−1), which had a faster rate of recovery.
Reproductive costs to male and female worm pipefish
Authors: Lyons D. O. , Dunne J. J.
Published: May 2003

Prior to reproductive maturity male and female worm pipefish Nerophis lumbriciformis are not significantly different in standard length (LS), eviscerated mass or condition indices. Subsequently, however, mature females achieve significantly (P < 0·001) greater values of LS and mass. For egg‐bearing males, there was no marked difference in the mass of embryos with increasing development (P > 0·1); similarly there was no significant divergence in condition indices calculated for males carrying embryos of increasing development. Post‐brooding males, however, had significantly lower values for the hepato‐somatic index than either egg‐bearing or non‐mated male worm pipefish (P < 0·001). This study suggests that male worm pipefish invest a significant proportion of their energy budget into the development and maintenance of the brooding patch, to the detriment of increased length or mass.
Expression of myofibrillar proteins and parvalbumin isoforms in white muscle of dorada during development
Authors: Huriaux F. , Baras E. , Vandewalle P. , Focant B.
Published: May 2003

Several polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis techniques were used to study developmental changes in myofibrillar protein composition and parvalbumin distribution in the myotomal muscle of Brycon moorei. Two myosin LC2 chains and two troponin I isoforms were successively detected. Up to four troponin T isoforms were synthesized. Slow red‐muscle myofibrils from adult fish showed no common component (except actin) with larval, juvenile or adult fast white‐muscle myofibrils. During growth of B. moorei, two classes of parvalbumin isoforms were sequentially expressed: larval PA I, PA IIa, and PA IIb and adult PA III. In adult fish, the content in Tn T‐2 isoform decreased from the anterior to the posterior myomeres, in favour of Tn T‐1 and Tn T‐4. The parvalbumin content also diminished from the rostral to the caudal muscle. The fast rate of transition from larval to adult isoforms appeared to parallel the extremely fast growth of B. moorei. Sequential expression of these isoforms presumably reflected variations in the contractile properties of the muscle fibres, required by changes in physiological demands of the propulsive musculature.
The behavioural role of pit organs in the epaulette shark
Authors: Peach M. B.
Published: May 2003

Epaulette sharks Hemiscyllium ocellatum in three treatments, pit organs (free neuromasts) ablated, sham‐operated and normal (n = 8 for each treatment), showed a significant preference for facing upstream in a flume (P < 0·05). There were no significant differences in the mean angles or angular variances among treatments. Individuals with ablated pit organs, however, spent significantly less time moving around than controls (P < 0·05), suggesting that pit organs contributed to motivation for activity. Pit organs do not appear to make an important contribution to rheotaxis in H. ocellatum. It is suggested that this may be due to structural differences in the pit organs of H. ocellatum compared with other species.
Seasonal changes in haematology and metabolic resources in the tench
Authors: Guijarro A. I. , Lopez‐Patiño M. A. , Pinillos M. L. , Isorna E. , De pedro N. , Alonso‐Gómez A. L. , Alonso‐Bedate M. , Delgado M. J.
Published: May 2003

Significant variations in the number of white and red blood cells, haematocrit and haemoglobin were found throughout the year in sexually mature male and female tench Tinca tinca. In general, the lowest values were observed during autumn–winter and the highest during summer, with males exhibiting higher values than females. Plasma glucose, cholesterol and triglycerides were lower during the winter than during the summer–autumn seasons in both sexes. Gonado‐somatic and hepato‐somatic indices were inversely correlated in female tench throughout the year. Seasonal patterns in liver metabolic resources were very similar for both sexes. For males and females, liver glycogen and proteins increased during the autumn, whereas the liver stored lipid during spring. Dorsal muscle mainly deposited glycogen, whereas lipid was mainly stored in the ventral muscle. Relations between seasonal changes in environmental factors, such as feeding and temperature are discussed.
Intra‐school positional preference and reduced tail beat frequency in trailing positions in schooling roach under experimental conditions
Authors: Svendsen J. C. , Skov J. , Bildsoe M. , Steffensen J. F.
Published: May 2003

Using three different swimming velocities and a school size of eight roachRutilus rutilus, individual intra‐school position and tail beat frequency were examined in a flume tank. Tail beat frequency was determined in defined leading and trailing positions. Individual roach showed consistent intra‐school positional preferences which implied a sustained positional pattern where certain individuals took up front positions whereas other individuals swam in the rear part of the school. The positional preferences could not be attributed to inter‐individual differences of the eight roach in terms of total length, mass or condition factor. At the tested swimming velocities of 2, 3 and 4 LT s−1, roach in trailing positions swam with tail beat frequencies reduced by 7·3, 11·9 and 11·6%, respectively, compared to roach in leading positions. These results suggested that roach situated in trailing positions experienced energetic savings due to hydrodynamic interactions at a wide range of swimming velocities. This may be important during migrations or when a school of roach is holding its position against the current in a lotic habitat. The observed sustained positional pattern combined with a hydrodynamic advantage in trailing positions would indicate that these energetic savings might not be evenly shared among schoolmates of roach. A positive correlation between swimming velocity and stride length was found. The present study, however, does not support any conclusions concerning these findings.
Inter‐ and intra‐morph patterns in helminth communities of sympatric whitefish morphs
Authors: Knudsen R. , Amundsen P.‐A. , Klemetsen A.
Published: May 2003

Infection patterns of trophically transmitted helminth parasites were compared with feeding ecology in two sympatric whitefish Coregonus lavaretus morphs from two lake systems in northern Norway. In both lakes, the pelagic morph was an obligate zooplanktivore, while the benthic morph utilized both the benthivore and zooplanktivore trophic niches. The differences in niche utilization between the two morphs were associated with differences in trophic morphology (gill raker numbers), suggesting that they were genetically dissimilar and reproductively isolated. The benthic morph had the highest number of helminth species, probably because they exhibited a broader niche width compared to the pelagic morph. In both lakes, the species composition and intensities of helminths reflected the trophic diversification of the whitefish ecotypes with respect to different habitat choice (benthic v. pelagic) and dietary specialization (benthivore v. zooplanktivore feeding strategies within the benthic whitefish morph). Zooplanktivorous fish from both morphs acquired parasites mainly from pelagic copepods and in almost equal quantities. The benthivore feeders within the benthic morph had the highest proportion of parasites with transmission stages from benthic organisms. Host feeding behaviour seemed to be a major determinant of the helminth community structure, and helminths appeared to be useful indicators of long‐term trophic specialization of whitefish ecotypes.
The effect of clutch size on whole clutch cannibalism in the beaugregory damselfish
Authors: Payne A. G. , Smith C. , Campbell A. C.
Published: May 2003

Parental male beaugregory damselfishStegastes leucostictuscommonly cannibalize entire egg clutches under natural conditions. Clutch size was experimentally reduced, but a relationship between the extent of clutch reduction and the frequency of total cannibalism was not detected.
Size‐scaling of zooplankton foraging in Arctic charr
Authors: Jansen P. A. , Finstad A. G. , Langeland A.
Published: May 2003

Prey capture rate (number of prey s−1) and the mode of feeding of Arctic charr Salvelinus alpinus were studied by performing foraging experiments with two sizes (1·1 and 1·8 mm) of Daphnia longispina prey. Arctic charr were particulate feeders at all densities tested. Adjusted for the effect of prey density, the capture rate showed a hump‐shaped relationship with Arctic charr size for both sizes of D. longispina. Estimated attack rates (a) also tended to show a hump‐shaped relationship with fish size. The estimated size‐scaling exponent of the attack rate function, however, was relatively small, implying small changes in attack rate over fish sizes. Simultaneous estimations of a and handling time were used in combination with published data on fish metabolism and dry mass rations of prey to estimate maintenance resource density of prey as a function of Arctic charr mass. Maintenance resource densities increased monotonically with Arctic charr size, and rapidly as optimum fish size relative to attack rate on prey was passed.
The importance of genetic verification for determination of Atlantic salmon in north Pacific waters
Authors: Nielsen J. L. , Williams I. , Sage G. K. , Zimmerman C. E.
Published: May 2003

Genetic analyses of two unknown but putative Atlantic salmon Salmo salar captured in the Copper River drainage, Alaska, demonstrated the need for validation of morphologically unusual fishes. Mitochondrial DNA sequences (control region and cytochrome b) and data from two nuclear genes [first internal transcribed spacer (ITS‐1) sequence and growth hormone (GH1) amplification product] indicated that the fish caught in fresh water on the Martin River was a coho salmon Oncorhynchus kisutch, while the other fish caught in the intertidal zone of the Copper River delta near Grass Island was an Atlantic salmon. Determination of unusual or cryptic fish based on limited physical characteristics and expected seasonal spawning run timing will add to the controversy over farmed Atlantic salmon and their potential effects on native Pacific species. It is clear that determination of all putative collections of Atlantic salmon found in Pacific waters requires validation. Due to uncertainty of fish identification in the field using plastic morphometric characters, it is recommended that genetic analyses be part of the validation process.
Long‐term ammonia exposure of turbot: effects on plasma parameters
Authors: Ruyet J. Person‐le , Lamers A. , Roux A. le , Sévère A. , Boeuf G. , Mayer‐Gostan N.
Published: May 2003

Turbot juveniles were exposed to four ammonia concentrations [0·17 (L), 0·34 (M), 0·73 (MH) and 0·88 (H) mg l−1 NH3‐N] for different exposure durations (28 days minimum to 84 days). Their physiological status and growth performances were compared to a control group [0·004 (C) mg l−1 NH3‐N]. No growth was observed in the H group, and by day 57, mass increase in the MH group was only 15% of that in group C. During the first month growth in the L group was similar to that in control group while it was lower (33%) in the M group; afterwards the L and M groups had a similar growth (half that of controls). Accumulation of total ammonia nitrogen (TA‐N) in plasma was dependent on ambient ammonia concentrations. Plasma urea levels in ammonia‐exposed fish were lower, similar or greater than in controls (depending on ammonia concentration or exposure duration). Osmolarity, Cl– and Na+ plasma concentrations were stable in the L and M groups. The increases in Na+, Cl–, K+ and total Ca concentrations observed by the end of the experiment in the H and MH groups suggest that fish failed to adapt. There was an initial rise in plasma cortisol in all ammonia‐exposed groups followed by a return to basal level (1·7–4 ng ml−1) in the L and M groups. In group MH, plasma cortisol peaked at 42 ng ml−1 by day 14, and after a decline at c. 1 month (14 ng ml−1), it rose again.
Morphological development of the gonads in zebrafish
Authors: Maack G. , Segner H.
Published: May 2003

Gonadogenesis of zebrafish Danio rerio was investigated by means of light microscopy to test the suitability of gonad histology as an endpoint in hazard assessment of endocrine‐active compounds. At age 2 weeks post‐fertilization (pf), primordial germ cells were found in a dorsocaudal position in the body cavity. At 4 weeks pf, the majority of the fish (86%) possessed paired gonads with meiotic germ cells; these gonads represented presumptive ovaries. At week 5 pf, 87% of the fish examined had ovaries with perinucleolar oocytes. Further development of the gonads in female zebrafish up to week 11 pf was characterized by an increase in gonad size as well as in the number and size of perinucleolar oocytes. Starting with week 5, some fish showed alterations of gonad morphology, including a decrease in the number and size of the oocytes, an enhanced basophilia and irregular shape of the oocytes, and finally their degeneration into residual bodies. With the decline in oocyte number, stromal cells became more numerous and they infiltrated the gonadal matrix. In several 7 week‐old zebrafish with altered gonadal morphology, enhanced numbers of gonial cells arranged in cyst‐like groups appeared. These gonads were interpreted as presumptive testes. In one fish out of 32 individuals examined, spermatocytes were detected, in addition to the gonial cells. During the subsequent weeks, the percentage of fish showing early testes with spermatogonia, spermatocytes and spermatids increased and reached 40% at 11 weeks pf. The sequence of gonadal alterations taking place in some of the individuals from week 5 pf onwards was interpreted to reflect the transition of protogynic ovaries into testes. The developmental pattern described identifies zebrafish to be a juvenile hermaphrodite. The results of this study are of relevance for the use of gonadal histopathology as endpoint in endocrine disruption testing, particularly in order to avoid false diagnoses of ‘intersex gonads’ in zebrafish.
Externally attached radio transmitters do not affect the parental care behaviour of rock bass
Authors: Cooke S. J.
Published: May 2003

Turning, pectoral fin and caudal fin rates and time spent on the nest of male rock bass Ambloplites rupestris, engaged in parental care, were not affected after the attachment of external radio transmitters. Reproductive success was similar between treatment and control fish. Micro external radio transmitters can be used on small fishes for studying parental care duration and post‐care movement without altering their behaviour.
Skin toxins and external parasitism of coral‐dwelling gobies
Authors: Munday P. L. , Schubert M. , Baggio J. A. , Jones G. P. , Caley M. J. , Grutter A. S.
Published: May 2003

Toxic (Gobiodon spp.) and non‐toxic (Paragobiodon xanthosomus) gobies became infected with external parasites (gnathiid isopods) at equal rates in a laboratory experiment. Parasites were evenly distributed over the body of P. xanthosomus but were mostly confined to the fins of Gobiodon spp., where toxin glands are less abundant. Skin toxins were not associated with the rate of infection but their distribution did appear to influence the site of parasite attachment.
The bold and the shy: individual differences in rainbow trout
Authors: Sneddon L. U.
Published: May 2003

Boldness and shyness were investigated as ‘personality’ traits in hatchery‐reared rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss. Bold fish spent more time in an open area and were more active than shy fish and these behaviours could be used as indicators of boldness and shyness. These differences were related to learning ability in a simple conditioning task. Bold fish learned the task more quickly than shy fish.
Isotopic change throughout the life history of a Lake Malawi cichlid fish
Authors: Genner M. J. , Hawkins S. J. , Turner G. F.
Published: May 2003

Clear changes in body size‐isotope (carbon and nitrogen) trajectories of Pseudotropheus callainos, a cichlid belonging to the endemic haplochromine species radiation in Lake Malawi, were found that corresponded with an ontogenetic dietary shift from predominantly planktonic to benthic food sources. The results indicated that dietary switching was a proximate cause of isotopic change over the life history of this species and confirmed the value of stable isotope signatures for inferring diet. The data also illustrated that possible variability of signatures over the life history of a species should be considered when using stable isotope ratios to investigate fine‐scale ecological differentiation among taxa.
Omitted spawning in compensatory‐growing perch
Authors: Holmgren K.
Published: May 2003

Individual growth trajectories of perch Perca fluviatilis in a Swedish forest lake (sampled in March) revealed growth depression at intermediate sizes, followed by enhanced, compensatory growth at larger sizes. All males of age ≥3+ years had mature, almost ripe testes. The proportion of spawning females was higher at age 3+ years (79%) than at older ages (44%), indicating that older females with non‐developing ovaries were resting rather than immature juveniles. Resting females were 175–247 mm in total length (LT), and they were usually in a state of increasing annual growth. Spawning females were of more variable size (123–418 mm), and the larger ones had entered the faster growing state ≥2+ years before catch. Detectable growth costs of spawning indicated that resting females made a trade‐off between current and future reproduction, rather than being constrained by poor feeding conditions.
A comparative study of blood oxygen transport in turbot and sea bass: effect of chronic hypoxia
Authors: Pichavant K. , Maxime V. , Soulier P. , Boeuf G. , Nonnotte G.
Published: May 2003

A comparative study of blood oxygen binding and carrying capacities of turbot Scophthalmus maximus and sea bass Dicentrarchus labrax, two fish species differing in their demand for oxygen, was carried out under three levels of chronic hypoxia (Po2 = 93, 65 and 40 mmHg) for 40 days. Blood O2 affinity in normoxia was moderately high in both species (P50 was c. 12–13 mmHg at pH 7·7). The Bohr factor was significantly lower in turbot (−0·52) than in sea bass (−0·85). In both species, blood O2 affinity was not significantly affected by oxygen depletion whatever its level and duration. In turbot, however, P50 appeared to slightly decrease at the two more severe levels of hypoxia. In both species, blood O2 carrying capacity was not affected by hypoxia and remained twice as high in sea bass than in turbot.
Socioeconomic status and drinking patterns in young adults
Authors: Casswell Sally , Pledger Megan , Hooper Rhonda
Published: May 2003

Aims  To investigate the relationship between several indicators ofsocioeconomic status and drinking patterns in young adulthood.

Design  Data collected in a longitudinal study of young adults was analysed usingrepeated‐measures models to examine the relationship between income, occupationalactivity and educational achievement and patterns of drinking.

Setting  These data were collected as part of a longitudinal study ofa birth cohort of New Zealanders. They were interviewed for themost part in a central location using a face‐to‐face methodand a computer‐assisted alcohol interview.

Participants  The participants were members of the Dunedin Multidisciplinary Healthand Development study aged 18, 21 and 26 years. Nine hundred andsixty‐nine study members contributed to the analysis. Study membershave been found to be broadly representative of the New Zealandpopulation and cross national studies suggest findings are generalizableto other similar market economies.

Measurements  Three indicators of socioeconomic status were used; educationalachievement, occupational activity and income. The educational achievementindicator at age 18 had three levels that ranged from no school qualificationsto higher school qualifications. For age 21 two additional categoriesof tertiary educational achievement were included to make five categories andfor age 26 higher tertiary degrees were included in the measureto make six categories. Five categories of occupational activitywere used. Income data was also used. Two measures of alcohol consumptionwere used. These were the frequency of drinking and the typicalquantity of alcohol consumed per drinking occasion in the past year.

Findings  Frequency of drinking increased over these early adult yearsand the quantities consumed peaked at age 21 and decreased thereafterfor both males and females. Frequency of drinking was influencedby income with the higher income respondents drinking more oftenand this was persistent overtime. Quantity of drinking was mostinfluenced by educational achievement. The less well‐educated youngadult drank significantly more during a drinking occasion and atall ages. There was also a relationship between educational achievement andfrequency of drinking for males at age 18 and a relationship between women’soccupational activity and the quantities they consumed.

Conclusions  The finding that the dimensions of drinking operate differently explainsthe lack of consistency in previous research, which has investigated socioeconomicstatus and the volumes of alcohol consumed. The findings of higherquantities consumed among those of lower social status may explain someof the reduced life expectancy found among those with lower socioeconomicstatus.
A comparison of treatment‐seeking pathological gamblers based on preferred gambling activity
Authors: Petry Nancy M.
Published: May 2003

Aims  To compare and contrast gamblers with different forms of problematic gambling activities.

Design, setting and measurements  Pathological gamblers completed the Addiction Severity Index (ASI) and gambling questionnaires when initiating out‐patient treatment.

Participants  Participants (n = 347) were categorized by their most problematic form of gambling activity: sports, horse/dog‐races, cards, slots and scratch/lottery tickets. Differences in demographics, gambling variables, and ASI composite scores were compared across groups.

Findings  After controlling for demographic variables, the types of gamblers differed in severity of gambling, alcohol and psychiatric problems. Horse/dog‐race gamblers were generally older, male and less educated; they began gambling regularly at a young age and spent relatively high amounts of money gambling. Sports gamblers were young males and had intermediary gambling problems; they had relatively high rates of current substance use but few psychiatric problems. Card players spent low to moderate amounts of time and money gambling, and they generally reported few alcohol problems and little psychiatric distress. Slot machine players were older and more likely to be female. Slot gamblers began gambling later in life, had high rates of bankruptcy and reported psychiatric difficulties. Scratch/lottery gamblers spent the least amount of money gambling, but they gambled the most frequently and had relatively severe alcohol and psychiatric symptoms.

Conclusions  Gambling patterns and severity of psychosocial problems vary by form of problematic gambling, and these differences may influence treatment recommendations and outcomes.
Is there a progression from abuse disorders to dependence disorders?
Authors: Ridenour Ty A. , Cottler Linda B. , Compton Wilson M. , Spitznagel Edward L. , Cunningham‐Williams Renee M.
Published: May 2003

Background  Recent studies suggest that a progression occurs from alcohol abuse to alcohol dependence. Although DSM‐IV criteria for all substance use‐related diagnoses are based largely on the alcohol dependence syndrome, progression from abuse to dependence might not generalize to other substances.

Aims  This study tested whether a progression from DSM‐IV abuse to dependence occurs related to the use of cannabis, cocaine and opiates.

Design  Retrospective data from the DSM‐IV Substance Use Disorders Work Group (n = 1226) were reanalysed using McNemar's χ2, configural frequency analyses and survival analyses. Participants were men and women who were primarily African‐Americans or Caucasians.

Settings  Participants were recruited from community and clinical settings. The measure was the Composite International Diagnostic Interview–Substance Abuse Module.

Findings  For all substances, life‐time dependence in the absence of life‐time abuse was rare. Results were consistent with a progression occurring for alcohol and cannabis, but not for cocaine and opiates. Abuse and dependence occurred in the same year for 66% of the cocaine users who experienced both disorders (57% of users with any cocaine disorder) and 65% of the opiate users who experienced both disorders (46% of users with any opiate disorder). Because cocaine and opiate dependence in the absence of abuse were rare, it is possible that progressions in cocaine and opiate disorders occur more rapidly than cannabis and alcohol.

Conclusions  Research is needed to clarify the mechanisms that influence progressions of substance use disorders. Potential factors leading to between‐drug variation in rate of progression of disorders are discussed.
A family history of smoking predicts heightened levels of stress‐induced cigarette craving
Authors: Erblich Joel , Boyarsky Yael , Spring Bonnie , Niaura Raymond , H. Bovbjerg Dana
Published: May 2003

Aims  Individuals with histories of smoking in first‐degree relatives are significantly more likely to be persistent smokers themselves. The mechanisms underlying this relationship are unknown. Considerable research has demonstrated that smokers display heightened levels of cigarette craving after being exposed to stressful situations, and the magnitude of these craving responses is thought to be predictive of later cessation failure. Based on this research, we tested experimentally the hypothesis that smokers with two or more first‐degree relatives who smoked (FH+) would exhibit stronger craving reactions following stressful stimuli than smokers without such family histories (FH–).

Participants  We recruited 83 smokers by advertisement (mean age = 41.2 years, 57% female, 41% completed some college, 59% African American).

Setting  The study was conducted in an interview room in an urban medical center.

Design  Participants were exposed to a neutral situation (changing a lightbulb) and a stressful situation (dental work) using script‐guided imagery.

Measurements  Participants completed background measures of demographics, distress and smoking behavior. In addition, participants completed cigarette craving and anxiety questionnaires immediately before and after each condition.

Findings  Supporting the study hypothesis, FH+ smokers (n = 39) selectively displayed stronger craving reactions to dental imagery (P < 0.03) than did FH– smokers (n = 44).

Conclusion  The higher levels of stress‐induced cigarette craving demonstrated experimentally for individuals with family histories of smoking suggest one mechanism for their poorer cessation success.
Buprenorphine versus methadone maintenance treatment in an ambulant setting: a health‐related quality of life assessment
Authors: Giacomuzzi S. M. , Riemer Y. , Ertl M. , Kemmler G. , Rössler H. , Hinterhuber H. , Kurz M.
Published: May 2003

Background  To compare the effects on quality of life (QOL) of oral methadone with sublingual buprenorphine.

Methods  We performed an open‐label, non‐randomized, two‐site (methadone–buprenorphine) study. During 6 months we assessed the quality of life status of 53 opioid‐dependent patients admitted to a methadone or buprenorphine maintenance programme using the German version (Berlin Quality of Life Profile) of the Lancashire Quality of Life Profile. Physical symptoms were measured using the Opioid Withdrawal Scale. Five hundred and thirty urine screening tests were carried out randomly to detect additional consumption.

Results  Sixty‐seven opioid‐dependent subjects (38 on methadone and 29 on buprenorphine) were enrolled in the study, and 53 completed it (30 subjects treated with buprenorphine and 23 subjects with racemic methadone). The subjects were comparable on all baseline measures. At the first follow‐up (week 8), the buprenorphine‐maintained group showed significantly less additional consumption of opioids (P = 0.013) compared with the methadone group. Patients retained in the buprenorphine or methadone programme (week 24) showed no significant differences in all quality of life scores. At the end of the study period, the buprenorphine‐maintained group showed significantly less additional consumption of opioids (P = 0.001) and cocaine (P = 0.018) compared with the methadone group. The outcome measures for withdrawal symptoms after 24 weeks of treatment with buprenorphine showed slight advantages in stomach cramps, fatigue or tiredness, feelings of coldness and heart pounding.

Conclusions  These results suggest that buprenorphine treatment is as effective as methadone regarding effects on quality of life and withdrawal symptoms. Buprenorphine has the potential to reduce the harm caused by drug abuse. Further research is needed to determine if buprenorphine is more effective than methadone in particular subgroups of patients.
Alcohol drinking as a predictor of intensive care and hospital mortality in general surgery: a prospective study
Authors: Delgado‐Rodríguez Miguel , Gómez‐Ortega Antonio , Mariscal‐Ortiz Marcial , Palma‐Pérez Silvia , Sillero‐Arenas María
Published: May 2003

Aims  To analyse whether alcohol drinking increases admission to intensive care and in‐hospital mortality in general surgery.

Design and participants  A prospective cohort study on a consecutive series of 1505 hospitalized patients in a Service of General Surgery of a tertiary hospital.

Measurements  Drinking pattern was defined by quantity, frequency and volume of drinking. Information on relevant confounders was obtained: smoking, body mass index, nutritional status (measured by serum albumin), cholesterol and its fractions, severity of the underlying disease and all therapeutic measures. Multivariate logistic regression was applied to assess the relationship between drinking and both admission to intensive care and in‐hospital death.

Results  Twenty‐nine (1.9%) patients died and 33 (2.1%) were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Drinking was heavier in men, patients without antecedents of cancer, with lower preoperative risk assessment scores, number of co‐morbidities and age and higher serum albumin levels. After adjusting for age, severity of underlying disease, smoking and serum albumin, male drinkers of 72+ g/day had an increased risk of being admitted to ICU, the effect being stronger for week‐day drinking (odds ratio, OR = 8.48; 95% confidence interval, CI = 1.68–42.8). A significant association was also seen between week‐day drinking (72+ g/day) and death in men (OR = 7.19, 95% CI = 1.43–36.1). Numbers for women were too small to evaluate.

Conclusion  Heavy drinking increases admission to intensive care and in‐hospital mortality in hospitalized male patients undergoing general surgery procedures.