bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The place of forestry in the energy question
Authors: Nautiyal J. C.
Published: February 2009

Although forests supply a major part of the energy needs of the less developed countries in the world, the industrialized nations cannot look forward to very significant contributions from existing forests in this matter. Even if the economic problems of cost are ignored there is not enough wood left, even in a forest-rich country like Canada, to provide more than about 5% of the energy needs of the country after the requirements of the forest products industries have been met. Forests can, however, supplement other energy sources in certain situations. Energy farming seems to be the only way in which forestry can make a significant long-term contribution to energy supply, particularly if research in development of wood-fired generating plants and management of stands for energy production is pursued.
Evaluation of phyllophagous insects as possible vectors of Dutch elm disease
Authors: Kondo Edward S. , Thomas J. Boyd
Published: February 2009

Experiments using 35S-labelled spores of Ceratocystisulmi (Buism.) C. Moreau revealed that only a limited number of spores could be introduced into leaves of white elm (Ulmusamericana L.) by direct injection into leaf wounds using the Hagborg method. Ceratocystisulmi remained localized in the immediate area of the spore injection wound site on the leaves and no symptoms of Dutch elm disease appeared during a 6-week period. Control elms inoculated at the base of the stem showed extensive disease symptoms. Adult Magdalis spp. weevils were artificially contaminated with spores of C. ulmi, caged on small elms, and allowed to feed freely on elm leaves and twigs. No symptoms of Dutch elm disease appeared after heavy feeding and C. ulmi could not be cultured from the leaves or wood, although it could be cultured easily from the beetles. It was concluded that phyllophagous insects were of little or no consequence as vectors of Dutch elm disease.
Differential effects of Douglas-fir tussock moth and western spruce budworm defoliation on radial growth of grand fir and Douglas-fir
Authors: Brubaker Linda B. , Greene Shannon K.
Published: February 2009

This study compares the effects of separate Douglas-fir tussock moth (Orgiapseudotsugata McDunnough) and western spruce budworm (Choristoneuraoccidentalis Freeman) infestations on the radial growth of two host species, grand fir (Abiesgrandis (Doug.) Lindl.) and Douglas-fir (Pseudotsugamenziesii (Mirb.) Franco). Growth records from nonhost species were also examined to substantiate that growth reduction in the hosts resulted from feeding by the respective defoliators. Ring-width data, standardized to remove trends of decreasing width from pith to bark, were tested statistically to identify significant differences in the effects of each defoliator on each host species. Four measures of radial growth were examined: maximum rate of growth decline, average rate of growth recovery, 1-year growth loss, and 5-year growth loss. The effects of tussock moth did not differ statistically between host species, but the impact of budworm defoliation on grand fir was significantly greater than on Douglas-fir. Differences occurred between the overall effects of tussock moth and budworm on the host species, with tussock moth causing significantly more rapid growth reductions and greater growth losses than budworm. It is concluded that (1) grand fir and Douglas-fir ring patterns, individually or in combination, can provide good evidence of severe defoliation by Douglas-fir tussock moth, (2) grand fir ring patterns can be used to identify severe defoliation by western spruce budworm, and (3) Douglas-fir ring patterns can provide evidence of budworm infestation only if corroborative evidence of a budworm infestation is present in the ring patterns of grand fir trees in the same stand.
Variation among Fraxinus families in foliar response to ozone
Authors: Steiner K. C. , Davis D. D.
Published: February 2009

Seedlings representing 10 open-pollinated families of Fraxinuspennsylvanica Marsh, and 2 of F. americana L. were exposed to 490 μg/m3 ozone (0.25 ppm) for 6 h at 24 °C and 75% relative humidity. At time of exposure, the seedlings were approximately 2 months old from seed and had three or four pairs of primary leaves. Both percentage of leaf surface injury and kind of injury varied significantly among families of the same and different species and between pairs of leaves at different nodal positions. Results reveal that total foliar ozone injury may be a complex of genetically independent symptom responses that should be distinguished in future studies of the genetics of ozone resistance.
Epicormic shoot growth in striped maple
Authors: Wilson B. F.
Published: February 2009

Epicormic shoots on stem segments from suppressed striped maple (Acerpensylvanicum L.) grow from poorly developed lateral buds in the axils of bud scales. The nondormant buds on stem segments in water are released by removing the terminal bud. For dormant buds (collected in winter) to grow they must, in addition to removing the terminal, either be chilled at 5 °C for 3–4 months or be treated with gibberellic acid (GA). Treatment with basally applied growth regulators did not release lateral buds if the terminal was intact. Nondormant buds on decapitated segments were totally inhibited by indolebutyric acid, applied either basally in solution or apically in lanolin, and partially inhibited by abscissic acid or 2-chloroethylphosphonic acid. Triiodobenzoic acid increased the number of buds released on decapitated segments but inhibited their subsequent growth. GA and benzyl adenine did not effect bud release but did stimulate subsequent epicormic shoot growth.
A nondestructive method for measuring the volume of intact plant parts
Authors: Burdett A. N.
Published: February 2009

The volume of intact plant parts can be measured rapidly by means of a simple displacement technique. The procedure is to dip the root, shoot, or other plant part to be measured into a vessel of water standing on a top-loading balance and take the resulting change in the reading of the balance as an estimate of tissue volume. The method has been found capable of yielding highly reproducible measurements of conifer seedling shoot and root volumes. One use that has been made of the technique is in the non-destructive determination of the shoot:root ratio of seedlings which are subsequently to be used in growth studies. Another has been in the estimation of root growth capacity from measurements of the root volume of test seedlings made both at the beginning and end of a period of growth under standard conditions.
Cladoptosis: a reproductive strategy in black Cottonwood?
Authors: Galloway Glen , Worrall John
Published: February 2009

Autumn and spring collections of physiologically abscissed black cottonwood (Populustrichocarpa Torr. & Gray) twigs rooted readily in greenhouse conditions. In the field, on sand and gravel bars in two southern British Columbia rivers, a small proportion of the widespread natural vegetative reproduction originated from such twigs. This reproduction could occur in the immediate vicinity of the parent trees, or at considerable distances downstream, resulting in some gene flow within the species, and in the extension of its range.
Influence de l'irradiation sur la croissance de plants d'épinette noire en contenants placés dans deux enceintes de culture
Authors: D'Aoust André L.
Published: February 2009

not available
Polymorphonuclear blood leukocytes and restenosis after intracoronary implantation of drug-eluting stentsThis article is one of a selection of papers from the NATO Advanced Research Workshop on Translational Knowledge for Heart Health (published in part 1 of a 2-part Special Issue).
Authors: Gabbasov Zufar A. , Kozlov Sergey G. , Lyakishev Anatoly A. , Saburova Olga S. , Smirnov Vladimir A. , Smirnov Vladimir N.
Published: February 2009

Peripheral blood contents of osteonectin-positive progenitor cells and polymorphonuclear granulocytes were examined by flow cytometry in 38 patients after myocardial revascularisation with drug-eluting stents. Repeat coronary angiography performed 6–12 months after stent implantation revealed in-stent restenosis in 15 patients and its absence in 23 patients. The plasma levels of osteonectin-positive progenitor cells, neutrophils, and basophils did not differ in patients with and without restenosis. Eosinophil blood levels in patients with and without restenosis were 262 ± 68 and 124 ± 67 cells/µL (mean ± SD, p < 0.001), respectively. Only one of 19 patients (5%) with eosinophil content lower than the distribution median for the entire group developed restenosis, whereas in the group with eosinophil contents higher than the median (n = 19) restenosis occurred in 14 patients (74%, p < 0.001). Our findings suggest that the frequency of restenoses after stenting is related to high peripheral blood eosinophil content.
Oxytocin exerts protective effects on in vitro myocardial injury induced by ischemia and reperfusionThis article is one of a selection of papers from the NATO Advanced Research Workshop on Translational Knowledge for Heart Health (published in part 1 of a 2-part Special Issue).
Authors: Ondrejcakova Maria , Ravingerova Tatiana , Bakos Jan , Pancza Dezider , Jezova Daniela
Published: February 2009

Among the cardiovascular pathologies, ischemic heart disease is a serious medical problem that can result in cardiac injury and (or) heart failure. The aim of the present study was to test the hypothesis that neuropeptide oxytocin induces cardioprotective effects on ischemia–reperfusion-induced myocardial damage. The functional parameters of isolated Langendorff-perfused rat hearts were recorded before and after global 25 min ischemia and subsequent reperfusion. The infarct size was determined by a computerized planimetric method. The results showed that oxytocin produced negative chronotropic effect even at low concentrations (90–125 nmol/L). Perfusion with oxytocin before ischemia resulted in significant reduction of the infarct size (p < 0.01), which was about 66% smaller than that in the control group. To evaluate the functional mechanisms involved, further experiments were performed under conditions of constant heart rate. The lower dose of oxytocin (90 nmol/L), which was ineffective in spontaneously beating hearts, induced a significant decrease of contractility. Elimination of the negative chronotropic effect of oxytocin prevented its cardioprotective action. In conclusion, our results demonstrated an attenuation of the infarct size in oxytocin-treated hearts, indicating a cardioprotective effect of oxytocin. The data suggest that the negative chronotropic action of oxytocin participates in its protective effects on ischemia–reperfusion-induced myocardial injury.
Transient receptor potential: a large family of new channels of which several are involved in cardiac arrhythmiaThis article is one of a selection of papers from the NATO Advanced Research Workshop on Translational Knowledge for Heart Health (published in part 1 of a 2-part Special Issue).
Authors: Vassort Guy , Alvarez Julio
Published: February 2009

The transient receptor potential (TRP) family of ion channels comprises more than 50 cation-permeable channels expressed throughout the animal kingdom. TRPs can be grouped into 7 main subfamilies according to structural homology: the TRPC (canonical), TRPV (vanilloid), TRPM (melastatin), TRPP (polycystin), TRPML (mucolipin), TRPA (ankyrin), and TRPN (NO mechanopotential). During the past 20 years, the cloning and characterization after reexpression of most members of these cation channels have led to a plethora of data and more recently to some understanding of their roles in various cells and tissues. Specifically in the heart, TRPs are known to be involved in various diseases, including hypertrophy, heart failure, and arrhythmia. The later part of this review focuses on the potential contribution of TRPs to cardiac rhythm and their potential proarrhythmic effects. Furthermore, several neurotransmitters that activate the formation of diacylglycerol could modulate cardiac rhythm or, like ATP, induce arrhythmia.
Nuclear membrane receptors and channels as targets for drug development in cardiovascular diseasesThis article is one of a selection of papers from the NATO Advanced Research Workshop on Translational Knowledge for Heart Health (published in part 1 of a 2-part Special Issue).
Authors: Bkaily Ghassan , Avedanian Levon , Jacques Danielle
Published: February 2009

The use of confocal microscopy has shown that the nucleus plays an important role in excitation–contraction and excitation–secretion coupling of several excitable and nonexcitable cardiovascular cells. It has shown that the nuclear membranes, like the sarcolemmal membrane, possess ionic transporters as well as G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), which play a major role in modulating both cytosolic and nuclear ionic homeostasis and nuclear signalling. During spontaneous contraction of heart cells, the increase in cytosolic Ca2+was immediately followed by a transient increase in nuclear Ca2+. The nuclear Ca2+rise during excitation–contraction and excitation–secretion coupling was both dependent and independent of changes in cytosolic Ca2+. Nuclear membrane GPCRs, such as those of angiotensin II, neuropeptide Y, and ET-1, were functional and contributed to modulation of nuclear ionic homeostasis via direct and (or) indirect modulation of nuclear membrane ionic transporters such as channels, pumps, and exchangers. The signalling of nuclear membrane GPCRs may also contribute to modulation of gene expression, which may regulate proliferation and remodelling of cells and, indeed, life and death. Direct or indirect targeting of nuclear membrane ionic transporters and GPCRs may constitute a new target for drug action.
RAPID TUNNELING AND PERCOLATION IN THE LANDSCAPE
Authors: SARANGI SASWAT , SHIU GARY , SHLAER BENJAMIN
Published: February 2009

Motivated by the possibility of a string landscape, we re-examine tunneling of a scalar field across single/multiple barriers. Recent investigations have suggested modifications to the usual picture of false vacuum decay that leads to efficient and rapid tunneling in the landscape when certain conditions are met. This can be due to stringy effects (e.g. tunneling via the DBI action), or effects arising from the presence of multiple vacua (e.g. resonance tunneling). In this paper we discuss both DBI tunneling and resonance tunneling. We provide a QFT treatment of resonance tunneling using the Schrödinger functional approach. We also show how DBI tunneling for supercritical barriers can naturally lead to conditions suitable for resonance tunneling. We argue, using basic ideas from percolation theory, that tunneling can be rapid in a landscape where a typical vacuum has multiple decay channels, and discuss various cosmological implications. This rapidity vacuum decay can happen even if there are no resonance/DBI tunneling enhancements, solely due to the presence of a large number of decay channels. Finally, we consider various ways of circumventing a recent no-go theorem for resonance tunneling in quantum field theory.
DISCUSSION ON SOME CHARACTERISTICS OF CHARGED BRANE-WORLD BLACK HOLES
Authors: KALAM M. , RAHAMAN F. , GHOSH A. , RAYCHAUDHURI B.
Published: February 2009

Several physical natures of charged brane-world black holes are investigated. Firstly, the timelike and null geodesics of the charged brane-world black holes are presented. We also analyze all the possible motions by plotting the effective potentials for various parameters for circular and radial geodesics. Secondly, we investigate the motion of test particles in the gravitational field of the charged brane-world black holes using the Hamilton–Jacobi formalism. We consider charged and uncharged test particles and examine their behavior in both static and nonstatic cases. Thirdly, the thermodynamics of the charged brane-world black holes are studied. Finally, it is shown that there is no phenomenon of superradiance for an incident massless scalar field for such a black hole.
ON ENERGY DISTRIBUTION OF TWO SPACE–TIMES WITH PLANAR AND CYLINDRICAL SYMMETRIES
Authors: MIRSHEKARI SAEED , ABBASSI AMIR M.
Published: February 2009

Considering encouraging Virbhadra results about energy distribution of nonstatic spherically symmetric metrics in the Kerr–Schild class, it would be interesting to study some space–times with other symmetries. Using Møller and Einstein energy–momentum complexes in static plane-symmetric and cylindrically symmetric solutions to Einstein–Maxwell equations in 3+1 dimensions, energy (due to matter and fields including gravity) distribution is studied. Energy expressions are obtained finite and well-defined. Our results support the Cooperstock hypothesis about localized energy.
THE LHC AND THE UNIVERSE AT LARGE
Authors: BINÉTRUY PIERRE
Published: February 2009

I discuss here some of the deeper connections between the physics studied at the LHC (electroweak phase transition, physics beyond the Standard Model, extra dimensions) and some of the most important issues in the field of particle astrophysics and cosmology (dark matter, primordial gravitational waves, black holes,…).
TERASCALE PHYSICS OPPORTUNITIES AT A HIGH STATISTICS, HIGH ENERGY NEUTRINO SCATTERING EXPERIMENT: NuSOnG
Authors: ADAMS T. , BATRA P. , BUGEL L. , CAMILLERI L. , CONRAD J. M. , DE GOUVÊA A. , FISHER P. H. , FORMAGGIO J. A. , JENKINS J. , KARAGIORGI G. , KOBILARCIK T. R. , KOPP S. , KYLE G. , LOINAZ W. A. , MASON D. A. , MILNER R. , MOORE R. , MORFÍN J. G. , NAKAMURA M. , NAPLES D. , NIENABER P. , OLNESS F. I. , OWENS J. F. , PATE S. F. , PRONIN A. , SELIGMAN W. G. , SHAEVITZ M. H. , SCHELLMAN H. , SCHIENBEIN I. , SYPHERS M. J. , TAIT T. M. P. , TAKEUCHI T. , TAN C. Y. , VAN DE WATER R. G. , YAMAMOTO R. K. , YU J. Y.
Published: February 2009

This paper presents the physics case for a new high-energy, ultra-high statistics neutrino scattering experiment, NuSOnG (Neutrino Scattering on Glass). This experiment uses a Tevatron-based neutrino beam to obtain over an order of magnitude higher statistics than presently available for the purely weak processes νμ + e- → νμ + e- and νμ + e- → νe + μ-. A sample of Deep Inelastic Scattering events which is over two orders of magnitude larger than past samples will also be obtained. As a result, NuSOnG will be unique among present and planned experiments for its ability to probe neutrino couplings to Beyond the Standard Model physics. Many Beyond Standard Model theories physics predict a rich hierarchy of TeV-scale new states that can correct neutrino cross-sections, through modifications of Zνν couplings, tree-level exchanges of new particles such as Z′'s, or through loop-level oblique corrections to gauge boson propagators. These corrections are generic in theories of extra dimensions, extended gauge symmetries, supersymmetry, and more. The sensitivity of NuSOnG to this new physics extends beyond 5 TeV mass scales. This paper reviews these physics opportunities.
Sphingosine 1-Phosphate Receptor Signaling
Authors: Rosen Hugh , Gonzalez-Cabrera Pedro J. , Sanna M. Germana , Brown Steven
Published: February 2009

The sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor signaling system is a productive model system. A hydrophobic zwitterionic lysophospholipid ligand with difficult physical properties interacts with five high-affinity G protein–coupled receptors to generate multiple downstream signals. These signals modulate homeostasis and pathology on a steep agonist concentration-response curve. Ligand presence is essential for vascular development and endothelial integrity, while acute increases in ligand concentrations result in cardiac death. Understanding this integrated biochemical system has exemplified the impact of both genetics and chemistry. Developing specific tools with defined biochemical properties for the reversible modulation of signals in real time has been essential to complement insights gained from genetic approaches that may be irreversible and compensated. Despite its knife-edge between life and death, this system, based in part on receptor subtype-selectivity and in part on differential attenuation of deleterious signals, now appears to be on the cusp of meaningful therapy for multiple sclerosis.
Getting a Grip on Prions: Oligomers, Amyloids, and Pathological Membrane Interactions
Authors: Caughey Byron , Baron Gerald S. , Chesebro Bruce , Jeffrey Martin
Published: February 2009

The prion (infectious protein) concept has evolved with the discovery of new self-propagating protein states in organisms as diverse as mammals and fungi. The infectious agent of the mammalian transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSE) has long been considered the prototypical prion, and recent cell-free propagation and biophysical analyses of TSE infectivity have now firmly established its prion credentials. Other disease-associated protein aggregates, such as some amyloids, can also have prion-like characteristics under certain experimental conditions. However, most amyloids appear to lack the natural transmissibility of TSE prions. One feature that distinguishes the latter from the former is the glycophosphatidylinositol membrane anchor on prion protein, the molecule that is corrupted in TSE diseases. The presence of this anchor profoundly affects TSE pathogenesis, which involves major membrane distortions in the brain, and may be a key reason for the greater neurovirulence of TSE prions relative to many other autocatalytic protein aggregates.
Distinct SOX9 levels differentially mark stem/progenitor populations and enteroendocrine cells of the small intestine epithelium
Authors: Formeister Eric J. , Sionas Ayn L. , Lorance David K. , Barkley Carey L. , Lee Ginny H. , Magness Scott T.
Published: February 2009

SOX transcription factors have the capacity to modulate stem/progenitor cell proliferation and differentiation in a dose-dependent manner. SOX9 is expressed in the small intestine epithelial stem cell zone. Therefore, we hypothesized that differential levels of SOX9 may exist, influencing proliferation and/or differentiation of the small intestine epithelium. Sox9 expression levels in the small intestine were investigated using a Sox9 enhanced green fluorescent protein ( Sox9EGFP) transgenic mouse. Sox9EGFPlevels correlate with endogenous SOX9 levels, which are expressed at two steady-state levels, termed Sox9EGFPLOand Sox9EGFPHI. Crypt-based columnar cells are Sox9EGFPLOand demonstrate enriched expression of the stem cell marker, Lgr5. Sox9EGFPHIcells express chromogranin A and substance P but do not express Ki67 and neurogenin3, indicating that Sox9EGFPHIcells are postmitotic enteroendocrine cells. Overexpression of SOX9 in a crypt cell line stopped proliferation and induced morphological changes. These data support a bimodal role for SOX9 in the intestinal epithelium, where low SOX9 expression supports proliferative capacity, and high SOX9 expression suppresses proliferation.
Threonine-deficient diets induced changes in hepatic bioenergetics
Authors: Ross-Inta Catherine M. , Zhang Yi-Fan , Almendares Andrew , Giulivi Cecilia
Published: February 2009

Diets deficient in an indispensable amino acid are known to suppress food intake in rats. Few studies were focused at understanding how amino acid-deficient diets may elicit biochemical changes at the mitochondrial level. The goal of this study was to evaluate mitochondrial function in rats fed diets with 0.00, 0.18, 0.36, and 0.88% threonine (Thr) (set at 0, 30, 60, and 140% of Thr requirement for growth). Here, it is described for the first time that Thr-deficient diets induce a specific uncoupling of mitochondria in liver, especially with NADH-linked substrates, not observed in heart (except for Thr-devoid diet). The advantage of this situation would be to provide ATP to support growth and maintenance when high-quality protein food (or wealth of high-quality food in general) is available, whereas Thr-deficient diets (or deficient-quality protein food) promote the opposite, increasing mitochondrial uncoupling in liver. The uncoupling with NADH substrates would favor the use of nutrients as energy sources with higher FADH-to-NADH ratios, such as fat, minimizing the first irreversible NADH-dependent catabolism of many amino acids, including Thr, thus enhancing the use of the limiting amino acid for protein synthesis when a low quality protein source is available.
Hepatocyte nuclear factor-4α and bile acids regulate human concentrative nucleoside transporter-1 gene expression
Authors: Klein Kerstin , Kullak-Ublick Gerd A. , Wagner Martin , Trauner Michael , Eloranta Jyrki J.
Published: February 2009

The concentrative nucleoside transporter-1 (CNT1) is a member of the solute carrier 28 ( SLC28) gene family and is expressed in the liver, intestine, and kidneys. CNT1 mediates the uptake of naturally occurring pyrimidine nucleosides, but also nucleoside analogs used in anticancer and antiviral therapy. Thus expression levels of CNT1 may affect the pharmacokinetics of these drugs and the outcome of drug therapy. Because little is known about the transcriptional regulation of human CNT1 gene expression, we have characterized the CNT1 promoter with respect to DNA response elements and their binding factors. The transcriptional start site of the CNT1 gene was determined by 5′-RACE. In silico analysis revealed the existence of three putative binding sites for the nuclear receptor hepatocyte nuclear factor-4α (HNF-4α) within the CNT1 promoter. A luciferase reporter gene construct containing the CNT1 promoter region was transactivated by HNF-4α in human cell lines derived from the liver, intestine, and kidneys. Consistent with this, we showed in electromobility shift assays that HNF-4α specifically binds to two conserved direct repeat-1 motifs within the proximal CNT1 promoter. In cotransfection experiments, the transcriptional coactivator peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α further increased, whereas the bile acid-inducible corepressor small heterodimer partner reduced, HNF-4α-dependent CNT1 promoter activity. Consistent with the latter phenomenon, CNT1 mRNA expression levels were suppressed in primary human hepatocytes upon bile acid treatment. Supporting the physiological relevance and species conservation of this effect, ileal Cnt1 mRNA expression was decreased upon bile acid feeding and increased upon bile duct ligation in mice.
Genetic and environmental effects on isometric muscle strength and leg extensor power followed up for three years among older female twins
Authors: Tiainen Kristina , Sipilä Sarianna , Kauppinen Markku , Kaprio Jaakko , Rantanen Taina
Published: February 2009

The purpose of this study was to examine changes in the contribution of genetic and environmental effects to isometric knee extensor strength and leg extensor power among 63- to 76-year-old female twins over a 3-yr follow-up. At baseline in 2000 the sample comprised 206 monozygotic (MZ) and 228 dizygotic (DZ) twin individuals, and at follow-up in 2003 the sample comprised 149 MZ and 164 DZ twin individuals. Genetic modeling showed that genetic effects explained 58% (95% CI: 46–68%) of the variance in muscle strength at baseline and 56% (95% CI: 41–68%) at follow-up, with no occasion-specific genetic effect. Nonshared environmental effects accounted for 42% (95% CI: 32–54%) of the variation at baseline and 15% (95% CI: 7–26%) at follow-up. In addition, new nonshared environmental effects explained the remaining variance, 29% (95% CI: 22–37%) of muscle strength at follow-up. For muscle power, the same genetic effects accounted for 67% (95% CI: 57–74%) of the variation at baseline and 48% (95% CI: 34–61%) at follow-up. Nonshared environmental effects in common at both measurement points explained 33% (95% CI: 25–43%) of the total variation at baseline and 11% (95% CI: 5–21%) at follow-up. The remaining variance of muscle power at follow-up was accounted for by time-specific environmental effects. Results indicated that the contribution of genetic effects to isometric muscle strength was stable, whereas for leg extensor power the proportion of genetic effects decreased during the follow-up. We observed new specific environmental effects underlying follow-up muscle strength and power, which effects could be due to the onset of new disease processes or changes in lifestyle.
Mechanical efficiency of limb swing during walking and running in guinea fowl (Numida meleagris)
Authors: Rubenson Jonas , Marsh Richard L.
Published: February 2009

Understanding the mechanical determinants of the energy cost of limb swing is crucial for refining our models of locomotor energetics, as well as improving treatments for those suffering from impaired limb-swing mechanics. In this study, we use guinea fowl ( Numida meleagris) as a model to explore whether mechanical work at the joints explains limb-swing energy use by combining inverse dynamic modeling and muscle-specific energetics from blood flow measurements. We found that the overall efficiencies of the limb swing increased markedly from walking (3%) to fast running (17%) and are well below the usually accepted maximum efficiency of muscle, except at the fastest speeds recorded. The estimated efficiency of a single muscle used during ankle flexion (tibialis cranialis) parallels that of the total limb-swing efficiency (3% walking, 15% fast running). Taken together, these findings do not support the hypothesis that joint work is the major determinant of limb-swing energy use across the animal's speed range and warn against making simple predictions of energy use based on joint mechanical work. To understand limb-swing energy use, mechanical functions other than accelerating the limb segments need to be explored, including isometric force production and muscle work arising from active and passive antagonist muscle forces.
Combined effect of denucleation and denitrogenation on the risk of decompression sickness in rats
Authors: Arieli R. , Boaron E. , Abramovich A.
Published: February 2009

We previously hypothesized that the number of bubbles emerging on decompression from a dive, and the resultant risk of decompression sickness (DCS), may be reduced by a process whereby effective gas micronuclei that might otherwise have formed bubbles on decompression are shrunk and eliminated. In a procedure defined by us as denucleation, exposure to hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) would result in oxygen replacing the resident gas in the micronuclei, to be subsequently consumed by the mitochondria when the oxygen pressure is reduced. Support for the validity of our hypothesis may be found in our previous studies on the transparent prawn and the reduction of DCS in the rat. In all of these studies, HBO pretreatment was given before supersaturation with inert gas at high pressure. The purpose of the present study was to compare DCS outcome in rats that underwent nitrogen washout (denitrogenation) alone (9 min O2 at 507 kPa) after exposure to air at high pressure (33 min at 1,266 kPa), and rats treated by both procedures (denitrogenation + denucleation; 8 min of O2 breathing followed by 5 min air breathing, both at 507 kPa) after high-pressure air exposure. This was done with the same nitrogen load in both groups before the final decompression (a nitrogen pressure of 467 kPa in fatty and 488 kPa in aqueous tissue). Six of 20 rats in the denitrogenation + denucleation group died, compared with 13 in the denitrogenation group ( P < 0.03). Three rats in the denitrogenation + denucleation group suffered mild DCS, recovering completely within 2 h of decompression. The present study indicates an advantage in considering both denitrogenation and denucleation before decompression. This may have practical application before escape from a disabled submarine, when aborting a technical dive, or in the preparation of aviators for high altitude.
Ginkgo bilobaextract attenuates oxLDL-induced oxidative functional damages in endothelial cells
Authors: Ou Hsiu-Chung , Lee Wen-Jane , Lee I-Te , Chiu Tsan-Hung , Tsai Kun-Ling , Lin Chih-Ying , Sheu Wayne Huey-Herng
Published: February 2009

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory process with increased oxidative stress in vascular endothelium. Ginkgo biloba extract (GbE), extracted from Ginkgo biloba leaves, has commonly been used as a therapeutic agent for cardiovascular and neurological disorders. The aim of this study was to investigate how GbE protects vascular endothelial cells against the proatherosclerotic stressor oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) in vitro. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were incubated with GbE (12.5–100 μg/ml) for 2 h and then incubated with oxLDL (150 μg/ml) for an additional 24 h. Subsequently, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, antioxidant enzyme activities, adhesion to monocytes, cell morphology, viability, and several apoptotic indexes were assessed. Our data show that ROS generation is an upstream signal in oxLDL-treated HUVECs. Cu,Zn-SOD, but not Mn-SOD, was inactivated by oxLDL. In addition, oxLDL diminished expression of endothelial NO synthase and enhanced expression of adhesion molecules (ICAM, VCAM, and E-selectin) and the adherence of monocytic THP-1 cells to HUVECs. Furthermore, oxLDL increased intracellular calcium, disturbed the balance of Bcl-2 family proteins, destabilized mitochondrial membrane potential, and triggered subsequent cytochrome c release into the cytosol and activation of caspase-3. These detrimental effects were ameliorated dose dependently by GbE ( P < 0.05). Results from this study may provide insight into a possible molecular mechanism underlying GbE suppression of the oxLDL-mediated vascular endothelial dysfunction.
Glucose ingestion during endurance training does not alter adaptation
Authors: Akerstrom Thorbjorn C. A. , Fischer Christian P. , Plomgaard Peter , Thomsen Carsten , van Hall Gerrit , Pedersen Bente Klarlund
Published: February 2009

Glucose ingestion during exercise attenuates activation of metabolic enzymes and expression of important transport proteins. In light of this, we hypothesized that glucose ingestion during training would result in 1) an attenuation of the increase in fatty acid uptake and oxidation during exercise, 2) lower citrate synthase (CS) and β-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase (β-HAD) activity and glycogen content in skeletal muscle, and 3) attenuated endurance performance enhancement in the trained state. To investigate this we studied nine male subjects who performed 10 wk of one-legged knee extensor training. They trained one leg while ingesting a 6% glucose solution (Glc) and ingested a sweetened placebo while training the other leg (Plc). The subjects trained their respective legs 2 h at a time on alternate days 5 days a week. Endurance training increased peak power (Pmax) and time to fatigue at 70% of Pmax ∼14% and ∼30%, respectively. CS and β-HAD activity increased and glycogen content was greater after training, but there were no differences between Glc and Plc. After training the rate of oxidation of palmitate (Rox) and the % of rate of disappearance that was oxidized (%Rdox) changed. %Rdox was on average 16.4% greater during exercise after training whereas, after exercise %Rdox was 30.4% lower. Rox followed the same pattern. However, none of these parameters were different between Glc and Plc. We conclude that glucose ingestion during training does not alter training adaptation related to substrate metabolism, mitochondrial enzyme activity, glycogen content, or performance.
Effect of functional electrostimulation on impaired skin vasodilator responses to local heating in spinal cord injury
Authors: Van Duijnhoven Noortje T. L. , Janssen Thomas W. J. , Green Daniel J. , Minson Christopher T. , Hopman Maria T. E. , Thijssen Dick H. J.
Published: February 2009

Spinal cord injury (SCI) induces vascular adaptations below the level of the lesion, such as impaired cutaneous vasodilation. However, the mechanisms underlying these differences are unclear. The aim of this study is to examine arm and leg cutaneous vascular conductance (CVC) responses to local heating in 17 able-bodied controls (39 ± 13 yr) and 18 SCI subjects (42 ± 8 yr). SCI subjects were counterbalanced for functional electrostimulation (FES) cycling exercise (SCI-EX, n = 9) or control (SCI-C, n = 9) and reanalyzed after 8 wk. Arm and leg skin blood flow were measured by laser-Doppler flowmetry during local heating (42°C), resulting in an axon-reflex mediated first peak, nadir, and a primarily nitric oxide-dependent plateau phase. Data were expressed as a percentage of maximal CVC (44°C). CVC responses to local heating in the paralyzed leg, but also in the forearm of SCI subjects, were lower than in able-bodied controls ( P < 0.05 and 0.01, respectively). The 8-wk intervention did not change forearm and leg CVC responses to local heating in SCI-C and SCI-EX, but increased femoral artery diameter in SCI-EX ( P < 0.05). Interestingly, findings in skin microvessels contrast with conduit arteries, where physical (in)activity contributes to adaptations in SCI. The lower CVC responses in the paralyzed legs might suggest a role for inactivity in SCI, but the presence of impaired CVC responses in the normally active forearm suggests other mechanisms. This is supported by a lack of adaptation in skin microcirculation after FES cycle training. This might relate to the less frequent and smaller magnitude of skin blood flow responses to heat stimuli, compared with controls, than physical inactivity per se.
Anorexia Nervosa’s Meaning to Patients: A Qualitative Synthesis
Authors: Espíndola Cybele Ribeiro , Blay Sergio Luís
Published: February 2009

Background: We carried out a qualitative synthesis of international literature to provide insight into the patient’s experience as a means to help clinicians recognize symptoms of anorexia nervosa. Method: International publications from 1990 to 2005 were searched for relevant qualitative investigations, and meta-ethnography was employed to identify common themes across studies. Databases included were PubMed, ISI, PsycINFO, EMBASE, LILACS and SciELO. Results: 24 studies were included from a total of 3,415 papers. The second-order interpretation process using reciprocal translation allowed the identification of two concepts: (1) symptom identification (disease representation, self-concept, development of anorexia) and (2) disease interpretation (positive aspects, negative aspects, areas of life affected). Third-order constructs emerged revealing the disease as connected with identity and control. Conclusion: Knowledge of patients’ efforts to interpret the illness as a part of their own identity and sense of control have a key role in physician understanding of the disorder by allowing physicians to bring structure to the patients’ lives generally and to their help-seeking behavior specifically. The study has some limitations. Most of the results come from B-grade studies (as classified by the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme) that used qualitative methodology, implying the need for caution in data interpretation. Moreover, study populations were almost exclusively female, and no comparison was attempted concerning the severity of the condition between studies.
The Prevalence, Diagnostic Significance and Demographic Characteristics of Schneiderian First-Rank Symptoms in an Epidemiological Sample of First-Episode Psychoses
Authors: Ihara Kazushige , Morgan Craig , Fearon Paul , Dazzan Paola , Demjaha Arsime , Lloyd Tuhina , Kirkbride James B. , Hayhurst Hazel , Murray Robin M. , Jones Peter B.
Published: February 2009

Background: The diagnostic significance of first-rank symptoms (FRSs) remains uncertain. Ethnic differences in FRSs may account for high rates of schizophrenia in minority groups. This study aims to examine the prevalence of FRSs in an epidemiological sample of first-episode psychoses stratified by relevant demographic variables. Sampling and Method: We identified everyone aged 16–64 presenting with their first psychosis over 2 years in 3 UK centres. Results: A total of 426 subjects had consensus diagnoses of DSM-IV and ICD-10 psychotic conditions. Thirty-eight percent (95% CI = 33–42) reported FRSs; more frequent in those classified as having schizophrenia (DSM-IV: 55%, 95% CI = 47–63; ICD-10: 51%, 95% CI = 44–58) than those with affective psychoses (DSM-IV: 31%, 95% CI = 22–39; ICD-10: 29%, 95% CI = 21–38). FRSs in schizophrenia were more common in white British subjects, while in affective psychoses, they were more frequent in the black group. The sensitivities, specificities and positive predictive values for schizophrenia of FRSs were 55, 69 and 72% according to DSM-IV and 51, 71, 74% according to ICD-10, respectively. The sensitivities were higher in white British than in the black group. Conclusions: FRSs were common but unhelpful for differentiating schizophrenia from other psychoses as they occurred frequently in both diagnoses. Phenomenological differences did not explain the higher incidence of schizophrenia in black ethnic minority groups.
Intermittent Explosive Disorder in South Africa: Prevalence, Correlates and the Role of Traumatic Exposures
Authors: Fincham Dylan , Grimsrud Anna , Corrigall Joanne , Williams David R. , Seedat Soraya , Stein Dan J. , Myer Landon
Published: February 2009

Background: The epidemiology of DSM-IV intermittent explosive disorder (IED) is not well characterized in developing country settings. In South Africa, given the high rates of violence and trauma, there is particular interest in traumatic exposures as potential risk factors for IED. Methods: We examined the prevalence and predictors of IED in a nationally representative sample of 4,351 South African adults. IED and other diagnoses based on DSM-IV criteria were assessed using the World Health Organization Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI). A 28-item scale was constructed to measure exposure to traumatic events. Results: Overall, 2.0% of participants (95% CI: 0–4.9%) fulfilled criteria for the narrow definition of IED, and 9.5% (95% CI: 6.6–12.3%) fulfilled criteria for the broad definition of IED. Individuals with IED experienced high rates of comorbid anxiety, mood and substance use disorders compared to non-IED participants. In multivariate analysis, a diagnosis of IED was associated with Caucasian and mixed-race ethnicity, psychiatric comorbidity and exposure to multiple traumatic events. Conclusion: These data suggest a relatively high prevalence of IED in South Africa. By reducing violence and trauma, and by providing appropriate psychological support to trauma survivors, we may be able to reduce rates of IED.
Psychodynamic Vulnerability Factors in the Development of Panic Disorders – A Prospective Trial in Patients after Vestibular Neuritis
Authors: Godemann F. , Schuller J. , Uhlemann H. , Budde A. , Heinz A. , Ströhle A. , Hauth I.
Published: February 2009

Background: In our 2-year prospective study of 80 patients admitted consecutively to our clinic with an episode of acute vestibular neuritis, a total of 8 patients later developed a panic disorder according to DSM-III-R criteria. The goal of our analysis was to determine whether certain conflict patterns (e.g. in the area of autonomy vs. dependence) or deficient psychological structure could predict later panic disorder, as might be expected based on psychodynamic theory. Sampling and Methods: Between 4 and 8 weeks after the acute vestibular episode, we evaluated all patients using operationalized psychodynamic diagnostics (OPD). With the different axes of the OPD system, we were able to assess patients’ experience of illness (Axis I), potential conflicts (Axis III), and psychological structure (Axis IV) in a semiquantitative manner. Results and Conclusions: Poor psychosocial integration, a lack of social support, a high burden of suffering, and moderate to severe impairment of self-experience were able to account for 32.1% (Nagelkerkes R2 = 0.321) of variance in the development of panic disorder over the course of 2 years. However, contrary to what might have been expected based on psychodynamic theory, patients who later developed a panic disorder did not exhibit any differences in their Axis III or IV scores compared to patients who remained psychologically healthy.
Inattention and Hyperactivity Dimensions of ADHD Are Associated with Different Personality Profiles
Authors: Salgado Carlos A.I. , Bau Claiton H.D. , Grevet Eugenio H. , Fischer Aline G. , Victor Marcelo M. , Kalil Katiane L.S. , Sousa Nyvia O. , Garcia Christiane R. , Belmonte-de-Abreu Paulo
Published: February 2009

Background: Previous studies have suggested that individuals with ADHD have high scores in novelty seeking and harm avoidance. However, it is not known whether personality is associated with specific subtypes and dimensions of the disorder. The aim of this study is to test for associations between scores in the temperament and character inventory of C.R. Cloninger with adult ADHD subtypes and severity. Sampling and Methods: The diagnostic interviews of 296 adult ADHD patients followed the DSM-IV criteria. ADHD dimensions were evaluated with the SNAP-IV scores, and personality dimensions were assessed using the Temperament and Character Inventory. Results: The combined subtype (n = 168) was associated with higher scores in novelty seeking (p < 0.001) and lower scores in cooperativeness (p = 0.006) than the inattentive subtype (n = 128). Higher inattention scores were associated with decreased self-directedness (p < 0.001) and increased harm avoidance (p = 0.02), whereas higher hyperactivity/impulsivity scores correlated positively with novelty seeking (p < 0.001) and persistence (p = 0.03). Conclusions: These findings suggest that personality dimensions are strongly correlated with ADHD subtypes and severity dimensions, pointing to the need for studies evaluating the mechanisms behind this association.
Literature Review of the Clock Drawing Test as a Tool for Cognitive Screening
Authors: Pinto Elisabete , Peters Ruth
Published: February 2009

Background/Aims: The Clock Drawing Test (CDT) is used in clinical practice for the screening of cognitive disorders. This systematic review aims to present and discuss the CDT scoring methods available in the literature, in order to find differences in administration and utility of the CDT. Methods: A literature search was carried out in Medline (1966 to June 2008), Psychinfo (1967 to June 2008) and EMBASE (1980 to June 2008). Results: All studies showed good interrater and test-retest reliabilities. The correlation with other standard screening tests was statistically significant in most studies, but the results were influenced by age, education and language. In studies that included patients with mild or questionable dementia, the CDT had a low sensitivity and variable specificity. Conclusion: The CDT has the characteristics of a good screening method for moderate and severe dementia. However, the scoring method used and potential confounders need to be taken into consideration.
Neuropathological Investigation of Regions Responsible for Semantic Aphasia in Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration
Authors: Yamamoto Ryoko , Iseki Eizo , Higashi Shinji , Murayama Norio , Minegishi Michiko , Sato Kiyoshi , Hino Hiroaki , Fujisawa Koshiro , Kosaka Kenji , Togo Takashi , Katsuse Omi , Uchikado Hirotake , Furukawa Yoshiko , Yoshida Mari , Hashizume Yoshio , Arai Heii
Published: February 2009

Background/Aims: Semantic dementia is a subtype of frontotemporal lobar degeneration, of which an initial symptom is semantic aphasia. Semantic dementia pathologically corresponds to atypical Pick’s disease (aPiD), showing ubiq- uitin-positive inclusions similar to those in dementia with motor neuron disease (D-MND). Previous studies have not clarified the regions responsible for semantic aphasia in aPiD, and there have been no reported neuropathological studies concerning its pathomechanism. Methods: We neuropathologically investigated aPiD and D-MND cases with and without semantic aphasia. Results: We determined that the regions involved in the early stage of the disease course of semantic dementia were more restricted to the anterior and inferior portion of the temporal lobe on the side of the dominant hemisphere. Conclusion: Degeneration of the temporal pole is most likely to participate in the pathomechanism of SA in semantic dementia.