bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Quantitative Trait Locus on Chromosome 22 for Serum Leptin Levels Adjusted for Serum Testosterone
Authors: Martin Lisa J. , Mahaney Michael C. , Almasy Laura , Hixson James E. , Cole Shelley A. , MacCluer Jean W. , Jaquish Cashell E. , Blangero John , Comuzzie Anthony G.
Published: April 2008

Objective: Studies have reported the existence of marked sexual dimorphism in serum leptin levels in humans with women having approximately two to three times the levels of men. We have shown that this sexual dimorphism has a strong genetic component arising from a genotype by sex interaction, but adjusting leptin levels for testosterone eliminates this interaction. Because interactions such as genotype × sex can confound the detection of quantitative trait loci (QTLs), we wanted to determine if there are QTLs associated with the expression of leptin adjusted for testosterone.

Research Methods and Procedures: We performed a genome‐wide scan using multipoint linkage analysis and implemented a general pedigree‐based variance‐component approach to identify genes with measurable effects on variation in leptin levels independent of testosterone in 318 Mexican Americans from the San Antonio Family Heart Study.

Results: We detected significant evidence of linkage (log of the odds ratio = 3.44) for a QTL on chromosome 22.

Discussion: Given these results, we hypothesize that a QTL on chromosome 22 may influence the level of leptin adjusted for testosterone.
Depot‐Specific Expression of Fibroblast Growth Factors in Human Adipose Tissue
Authors: Gabrielsson Britt G. , Johansson Jenny M. , Jennische Eva , Jernås Margareta , Itoh Yoshiaki , Peltonen Markku , Olbers Torsten , Lönn Lars , Lönroth Hans , Sjöström Lars , Carlsson Björn , Carlsson Lena M.S. , Lönn Malin
Published: April 2008

Objective: We have investigated the expression of several fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) and FGF‐receptors (FGFRs) in human adipose tissue and adipose‐tissue cell fractions obtained from both subcutaneous (sc) and omental (om) depots.

Research Methods and Procedures: Adipose tissue (sc and om) was obtained from obese men. Gene expression was analyzed by DNA microarrays in triplicate (n = 6) or by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (n = 9).

Results: FGF‐1, FGF‐2, FGF‐7, FGF‐9, FGF‐10, and FGF‐18 transcripts were detected in human adipose tissue. The expression of FGF‐2, FGF‐7, and FGF‐10 was similar in sc and om adipose tissue, whereas FGF‐1 and FGF‐9 were expressed at higher levels in the om adipose tissue. Expression of FGF‐18 was only detected in om adipose tissue in two of the subjects. Analysis of cell fractions revealed that FGF‐2 was only expressed in adipocytes; FGF‐7, FGF‐9, and FGF‐18 were expressed in the stroma‐vascular fraction; and FGF‐1 and FGF‐10 were expressed in both adipocytes and in the stroma‐vascular fraction. FGFR‐1 was expressed in both depots in all subjects and in both cell fractions, whereas FGFR‐2 expression was undetectable in whole adipose tissue but detectable in the adipocyte fractions from both sc and om depots.

Discussion: We show that several members of the FGF family are expressed in human adipose tissue, and that the expression for some of the FGFs differs between sc and om adipose tissue. Taken together with previously published reports on the biological effects of FGFs on adipose cells, our results suggest that locally expressed FGFs could play role in the regulation of regional adipose tissue mass.
The Canadian Obesity Epidemic: An Historical Perspective
Authors: Katzmarzyk Peter T.
Published: April 2008

Objective: To examine temporal trends in stature, body mass, body mass index (BMI), and the prevalence of overweight and obesity in Canada.

Research Methods and Procedures: Data for adults 20 to 64 years of age were compared across eight Canadian surveys conducted between 1953 and 1998. Temporal trends in stature and body mass were examined using regression, and changes in weight‐for‐height were expressed as changes from 1953. BMI data were available from 1970 to 1972 to examine changes in overweight and obesity. Qualitative changes in the BMI distribution were examined using Tukey mean‐difference plots.

Results: Significant temporal trends in stature and body mass have occurred since 1953 in Canada. Median stature increased 1.4 cm/decade in men and 1.1 cm/decade in women, whereas median body mass increased 1.9 kg/decade in men and 0.8 kg/decade in women. Increases in the 75th percentile of body mass were larger than the median. The average weight‐for‐height increased 5.1% in men and 4.9% in women from 1953. Furthermore, the prevalences of overweight and obesity have increased from 40.0% and 9.7% in 1970–1972 to 50.7% and 14.9% in 1998, respectively. The entire BMI distribution has shifted to the right since 1970–1972 and has become more skewed to the right for men than for women.

Discussion: There have been significant increases in stature and body mass in Canada over the last 45 years. Body mass has increased more than stature, particularly in the upper percentiles, which has resulted in the currently observed high prevalences of overweight and obesity.
An Aminophospholipid Translocase Associated with Body Fat and Type 2 Diabetes Phenotypes
Authors: Dhar Madhu , Hauser Loren , Johnson Dabney
Published: April 2008

Objective: We have shown that a region on proximal mouse chromosome 7, near the pink‐eyed (p) dilution locus, contains an ATPase (pfatp), a putative aminophospholipid translocase. Studies have suggested that this gene is a prime candidate for modulating body fat or involved in lipid metabolism in mouse and humans. Toward further analyses, our objective was to generate the complete genomic structures of mouse and human genes.

Research Methods and Procedures: The genomic structure of mouse pfatp was deduced by comparing the full‐length cDNA sequence with the genomic sequence derived from a mouse BAC. The human ortholog was identified from the National Center for Biotechnology Information database. Full‐length cDNA was generated, and the corresponding genomic structure was deduced from the Human Genome Database.

Results: Murine pfatp, and its human ortholog, PFATP, belong to class V of the third subfamily of P‐type ATPases. The gene organization is strikingly similar in both organisms and all exon‐intron junctions are conserved. A putative promoter region of PFATP contains a strong CpG island. The 5′ untranslated regions of the two cDNAs have potential binding sites for multiple transcription factors, including Sp1, USF, AP1, and AP2, involved in adipogenesis and adipocyte metabolism.

Discussion: We report the generation of the complete genomic structure of a novel aminophospholipid translocase in mice and humans. Because the exact biological role and the subsequent relevance of these ATPases to obesity and diabetes are unknown, these data help to delineate the role of these genes in lipid/adipocyte metabolism.
Noun Phrase Elaboration in Children’s Spoken Stories
Authors: Eisenberg Sarita L. , Ukrainetz Teresa A. , Hsu Jennifer R. , Kaderavek Joan N. , Justice Laura M. , Gillam Ronald B.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

One feature of literate language, noun phrase elaboration, was examined in the oral fictional narratives of school-aged children.

Method

Two narratives were elicited from 5-, 8- and 11-year-old children, 1 in response to a picture sequence and 1 in response to a single picture. Noun phrases were categorized into 4 types.

Results

Simple designating noun phrases were produced by all children at age 5, simple descriptive noun phrases by all children at age 8, and noun phrases with postmodification by all children at age 11. All noun phrase types were produced by more children in object than in subject position and in the single picture than in the picture sequence context.

Conclusion

There are important developmental changes in noun phrase elaboration in the elementary school years as children learn to manage narrative contexts. Even within picture tasks, variations in visual depiction can affect the use of elaborated noun phrases (ENPs), with more descriptive language more likely to occur in narratives based on a single picture fantasy context than on a realistic picture sequence context. Performance expectations for types of ENPs within these contexts are provided. These findings will be useful to school clinicians in evaluating and working on narrative language within the elementary school period.
Legal and Financial Issues Associated With Providing Services in Schools to Children With Swallowing and Feeding Disorders
Authors: Power-deFur Lissa , Alley Nancy S. N.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

This review of federal statutes and regulations, state and federal administrative and case law, and policy documents is designed to provide information regarding the treatment of children with swallowing and feeding disorders in the law for the purpose of identifying best practice procedures for school personnel serving children with swallowing and feeding disorders.

Method

A narrative review of federal statutes and regulations, state and federal administrative and case law, and policy documents was conducted. The review identified prevailing and emerging policies related to serving children with swallowing and feeding issues in schools. In addition, federal standards regarding funding were reviewed for relevance to serving children with dysphagia.

Implications

Statutes, regulations, and case law establish the rights of students with health impairments, including swallowing and feeding disorders, to receive such related services as are necessary to attend school safely. Recent administrative hearings have addressed dysphagia, identifying the importance of ensuring the child’s feeding safety through diet and services. School districts can receive reimbursement for services that are provided to children with dysphagia through Medicaid when said services are provided in accordance with each state’s Medicaid requirements.
Using Motor Learning Approaches for Treating Swallowing and Feeding Disorders: A Review
Authors: Sheppard Justine J.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

This article discusses children’s development of mature swallowing and feeding as a process of skill acquisition and considers the applicability of motor learning concepts for advancing these capabilities in school-aged children.

Method

The motor learning literature was reviewed, with concentration on (a) concepts that are relevant for the acquisition of skill and (b) structuring practice experiences to optimize learning.

Results

The discussion includes (a) swallowing physiology with a focus on motor task components, (b) normal development of eating skills, (c) factors that may slow or disrupt normal development, (d) motor learning concepts found to influence learning efficiency and performance adequacy, (e) applications to the assessment and treatment of pediatric swallowing and feeding disorders, and (f) an illustrative case history.

Conclusion

Deficiencies in swallowing and feeding may encompass eating, saliva control, swallowing during oral hygiene, and swallowing medications. Motor learning literature provides a rich foundation of evidence-based theory and educational strategies for the development and remediation of motor-based skills such as swallowing and feeding.
Transition From Tube to Oral Feeding in the School Setting
Authors: McKirdy Laura S. , Sheppard Justine J. , Osborne Mary L. , Payne Pamela
Published: April 2008

Purpose

A school-based treatment program for tube-fed children with medically complex conditions and food refusal was implemented to facilitate the children’s transition to oral feeding and advance their eating skills.

Method

The program combined educational and therapeutic goals. It was implemented in a regional public school for children with hearing impairments. A team approach was used. Collaboration with the student’s families, medical care providers, personal assistants, and classroom staff was maintained.

Results

Detailed case reviews are provided for 2 of the children who completed the program at age 8;1 (years;months) and 7;8 after 29 and 26 months of treatment, respectively. At the end of the program, tube feeding was discontinued; the children were feeding themselves and taking medications orally. One child was using mature eating skills to eat an unrestricted diet; the other was eating a modified diet consisting of a full nutrient drink and limited smooth and lightly textured solids.

Conclusion

Successful transition to oral feeding and advancement of developmental eating skills were accomplished in a school setting for long-term tube-fed children with medically complex conditions. The program included collaboration with family and medical personnel as well as integrated therapeutic and educational goals.
Noncovalent self-assembly of carbon nanotube wrapped carbonyl iron particles and their magnetorheology
Authors: Fang F. F. , Choi H. J.
Published: April 2008

Carbonyl iron (CI) particles with their superior magnetic and physical properties, widely adopted as magnetorheological (MR) fluids, have been modified via diverse strategies to get well dispersed suspension in medium oil. Recently, coating technology has become prevalent due to improved favorable morphology and effective decrease in their particle density, resulting in an abated sedimentation problem. Therefore, considering self-assembling property of carbon nanotube (CNT), a dense nest of CNT onto the surface of CI particles was constructed in this study using 4-aminobenzoic acid as a grafting agent. MR characteristics of the CI/CNT particles which were examined via a rotational rheometer in a parallel plate geometry equipped with a magnetic field supplier were found to be similar with that of pristine CI suspension, while the sedimentation ratio is expected to be improved.
Magnetoimpedance, magnetoresistance, and magnetic properties of nanometric CMR manganites
Authors: Nath T. K. , Dutta P. , Dey P.
Published: April 2008

The effects of nanometric grain size (ϕ=14–28nm) modulation on the behavior of magnetoimpedance (MI), magnetoresistance, and magnetic properties of chemically synthesized a series of single-phase soft ferromagnetic nanocrystalline colossal magnetoresistance La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 (LSMO) manganites at room temperature have been reported. From the frequency and magnetic filed dependent MI measurement it is found that the MI percent increases with the increase in nanometric grain size (ϕ) for this series of samples. This behavior has been explained in the light of classical electrodynamics, which relates this effect with the dependency of skin depth on external magnetic field and applied ac signal frequency. Room temperature low field magnetoresistance (LFMR) study of this series of LSMO nanoparticles has also been carried out for comparison.
Higher origination and extinction rates in larger mammals
Authors: Liow Lee Hsiang , Fortelius Mikael , Bingham Ella , Lintulaakso Kari , Mannila Heikki , Flynn Larry , Stenseth Nils Chr.
Published: April 2008

Do large mammals evolve faster than small mammals or vice versa? Because the answer to this question contributes to our understanding of how life-history affects long-term and large-scale evolutionary patterns, and how microevolutionary rates scale-up to macroevolutionary rates, it has received much attention. A satisfactory or consistent answer to this question is lacking, however. Here, we take a fresh look at this problem using a large fossil dataset of mammals from the Neogene of the Old World (NOW). Controlling for sampling biases, calculating per capita origination and extinction rates of boundary-crossers and estimating survival probabilities using capture-mark-recapture (CMR) methods, we found the recurring pattern that large mammal genera and species have higher origination and extinction rates, and therefore shorter durations. This pattern is surprising in the light of molecular studies, which show that smaller animals, with their shorter generation times and higher metabolic rates, have greater absolute rates of evolution. However, higher molecular rates do not necessarily translate to higher taxon rates because both the biotic and physical environments interact with phenotypic variation, in part fueled by mutations, to affect origination and extinction rates. To explain the observed pattern, we propose that the ability to evolve and maintain behavior such as hibernation, torpor and burrowing, collectively termed “sleep-or-hide” (SLOH) behavior, serves as a means of environmental buffering during expected and unexpected environmental change. SLOH behavior is more common in some small mammals, and, as a result, SLOH small mammals contribute to higher average survivorship and lower origination probabilities among small mammals.
Mechanism of Cu+-transporting ATPases: Soluble Cu+chaperones directly transfer Cu+to transmembrane transport sites
Authors: González-Guerrero Manuel , Argüello José M.
Published: April 2008

As in other P-type ATPases, metal binding to transmembrane metal-binding sites (TM-MBS) in Cu+-ATPases is required for enzyme phosphorylation and subsequent transport. However, Cu+does not access Cu+-ATPases in a free (hydrated) form but is bound to a chaperone protein. Cu+transfer from Cu+chaperones to regulatory cytoplasmic metal-binding domains (MBDs) present in these ATPases has been described, but there is no evidence of a proposed subsequent Cu+movement from the MBDs to the TM-MBS. Alternatively, we postulate the parsimonious Cu+transfer by the chaperone directly to TM-MBS. Testing both models, the delivery of Cu+byArchaeoglobus fulgidusCu+chaperone CopZ to the corresponding Cu+-ATPase, CopA, was studied. As expected, CopZ interacted with and delivered the metal to CopA MBDs. Cu+-loaded MBDs, acting as metal donors, were unable to activate CopA or a truncated CopA lacking MBDs. Conversely, Cu+-loaded CopZ activated the CopA ATPase and CopA constructs in which MBDs were rendered unable to bind Cu+. Furthermore, under nonturnover conditions, CopZ transferred Cu+to the TM-MBS of a CopA lacking MBDs. These data are consistent with a model where MBDs serve a regulatory function without participating in metal transport and the chaperone delivers Cu+directly to transmembrane transport sites of Cu+-ATPases.
Numerical Simulation of the Coagulation Dynamics of Blood
Authors: Bodnár T. , Sequeira A.
Published: April 2008

The process of platelet activation and blood coagulation is quite complex and not yet completely understood. Recently, a phenomenological meaningful model of blood coagulation and clot formation in flowing blood that extends existing models to integrate biochemical, physiological and rheological factors, has been developed. The aim of this paper is to present results from a computational study of a simplified version of this coupled fluid‐biochemistry model. A generalized Newtonian model with shear‐thinning viscosity has been adopted to describe the flow of blood. To simulate the biochemical changes and transport of various enzymes, proteins and platelets involved in the coagulation process, a set of coupled advection–diffusion–reaction equations is used. Three‐dimensional numerical simulations are carried out for the whole model in a straight vessel with circular cross‐section, using a finite volume semi‐discretization in space, on structured grids, and a multistage scheme for time integration. Clot formation and growth are investigated in the vicinity of an injured region of the vessel wall. These are preliminary results aimed at showing the validation of the model and of the numerical code.
A Simple Mathematical Standardized Measurement of Acetabulum Anteversion after Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Liaw Chen-Kun , Yang Rong-Sen , Hou Sheng-Mou , Wu Tai-Yin , Fuh Chiou-Shann
Published: April 2008

We invented a standardization method to measure the cup′s anteversion after total hip arthroplasty without the influence of patient′s position. We measured 68 radiographs of 10 patients after total hip replacement (THR) and calculated the error of each measurement, defined as the difference with the average of the same measuring method on the same patient. We also calculated the repeatability standard deviation (RSD) of each method according to the American Society for Testing and Materials, ASTM E691.

Mean absolute inter‐examination angle error, defined as the average of the absolute deviations, was 0.75° for standardized anteversion (range 0.03–2.51°), as compared with those without standardization, 2.30° (range 0.04–13.04°). The inter‐examination measurement reliability (precision), defined as one RSD, was 0.99° for standardized anteversion, as compared with those without standarization, 3.50°. There is no difference between patients four and five without (p = 0.097). There is a significant difference with standardization (p < 0.0001).

Our study demonstrated that this mathematical method is a precise tool to measure the anteversion of the acetabular cup. We hope that it can be used widely in the future.
Stability Analysis of a Model of Atherogenesis: An Energy Estimate Approach
Authors: Ibragimov A. I. , McNeal C. J. , Ritter L. R. , Walton J. R.
Published: April 2008

Atherosclerosis is a disease of the vasculature that is characterized by chronic inflammation and the accumulation of lipids and apoptotic cells in the walls of large arteries. This disease results in plaque growth in an infected artery typically leading to occlusion of the artery. Atherosclerosis is the leading cause of human mortality in the US, much of Europe, and parts of Asia. In a previous work, we introduced a mathematical model of the biochemical aspects of the disease, in particular the inflammatory response of macrophages in the presence of chemoattractants and modified low density lipoproteins. Herein, we consider the onset of a lesion as resulting from an instability in an equilibrium configuration of cells and chemical species. We derive an appropriate norm by taking an energy estimate approach and present stability criteria. A bio‐physical analysis of the mathematical results is presented.
Modelling Immune Response and Drug Therapy in Human Malaria Infection
Authors: Chiyaka C. , Garira W. , Dube S.
Published: April 2008

A new intra‐host model of malaria that describes the dynamics of the blood stages of the parasite and its interaction with red blood cells and immune effectors is proposed. Local and global stability of the disease free equilibrium are investigated. Conditions for existence and uniqueness of the endemic equilibrium are derived. An intra‐host basic reproductive number is identified. We deduce that drugs based on inhibiting parasite production are more effective than those based on inhibiting merozoite invasion of erythrocytes. We extend the model to incorporate, in addition to immune response, drug therapy, following treatment with antimalarial drugs. Using stability analysis of the model, it is shown that infection can be eradicated within the host if the drug efficacy level exceeds a certain threshold value. It will persist if the efficacy is below this threshold. Numerical simulations are done to verify the analytic results and illustrate possible behaviour of the models.
Modelling copepod development: current limitations and a new realistic approach
Authors: Gentleman W. C. , Neuheimer A. B. , Campbell R. G.
Published: April 2008

Gentleman, W. C., Neuheimer, A. B., and Campbell, R. G. 2008. Modelling copepod development: current limitations and a new realistic approach. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 65: 399–413. To predict the influence of environmental variability on copepod dynamics and production, models must account for the effects of temperature and food on stage-dependent time-scales. Here, data for development-time means and variance of Calanus finmarchicus are used to quantify the limitations of existing models. Weight-based individual models are sensitive to uncertain parameters, such as moulting weights, assimilation efficiency, and environmental dependencies, making them highly difficult to calibrate. The accuracy of stage-based population models using ordinary differential equations depends on model structure, with some predicted generation times being incorrect by months. Even when large numbers of age classes are used to reduce modelled variability, it is not possible to make variability consistent with the data. Accuracy of mean times for stage-based population models using difference equations requires a small time-step, which results in large numbers of age classes and modelled variability that is underestimated by orders of magnitude, unless a probabilistic moult fraction is used. We present a new stage-based individual model that avoids the limitations of other models and successfully represents C. finmarchicus mean development timing and associated variability. This approach can be adapted easily for other species, as well as dynamic environmental conditions.
Impacts of ocean acidification on marine fauna and ecosystem processes
Authors: Fabry Victoria J. , Seibel Brad A. , Feely Richard A. , Orr James C.
Published: April 2008

Fabry, V. J., Seibel, B. A., Feely, R. A., and Orr, J. C. 2008. Impacts of ocean acidification on marine fauna and ecosystem processes. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 65: 414–432. Oceanic uptake of anthropogenic carbon dioxide (CO2) is altering the seawater chemistry of the world’s oceans with consequences for marine biota. Elevated partial pressure of CO2 (pCO2) is causing the calcium carbonate saturation horizon to shoal in many regions, particularly in high latitudes and regions that intersect with pronounced hypoxic zones. The ability of marine animals, most importantly pteropod molluscs, foraminifera, and some benthic invertebrates, to produce calcareous skeletal structures is directly affected by seawater CO2 chemistry. CO2 influences the physiology of marine organisms as well through acid-base imbalance and reduced oxygen transport capacity. The few studies at relevant pCO2 levels impede our ability to predict future impacts on foodweb dynamics and other ecosystem processes. Here we present new observations, review available data, and identify priorities for future research, based on regions, ecosystems, taxa, and physiological processes believed to be most vulnerable to ocean acidification. We conclude that ocean acidification and the synergistic impacts of other anthropogenic stressors provide great potential for widespread changes to marine ecosystems.
Structure determination of a Galectin‐3–carbohydrate complex using paramagnetism‐based NMR constraints
Authors: Zhuang Tiandi , Lee Han‐Seung , Imperiali Barbara , Prestegard James H.
Published: April 2008

The determination of the location and conformation of a natural ligand bound to a protein receptor is often a first step in the rational design of molecules that can modulate receptor function. NMR observables, including NOEs, often provide the basis for these determinations. However, when ligands are carbohydrates, interactions mediated by extensive hydrogen‐bonding networks often reduce or eliminate NOEs between ligand and protein protons. In these cases, it is useful to look to other distance‐ and orientation‐dependent observables that can constrain the geometry of ligand–protein complexes. Here we illustrate the use of paramagnetism‐based NMR constraints, including pseudo‐contact shifts (PCS) and field‐induced residual dipolar couplings (RDCs). When a paramagnetic center can be attached to the protein, field‐induced RDCs and PCS reflect only bound‐state properties of the ligand, even when averages over small fractions of bound states and large fractions of free states are observed. The effects can also be observed over a long range, making it possible to attach a paramagnetic center to a remote part of the protein. The system studied here is a Galectin‐3–lactose complex. A lanthanide‐binding peptide showing minimal flexibility with respect to the protein was integrated into the C terminus of an expression construct for the Galectin‐3–carbohydrate‐binding domain. Dysprosium ion, which has a large magnetic susceptibility anisotropy, was complexed to the peptide, making it possible to observe both PCSs and field‐induced RDCs for the protein and the ligand. The structure determined from these constraints shows agreement with a crystal structure of a Galectin‐3–N‐acetyllactosamine complex.
Hydrodynamic characterization of the SufBC and SufCD complexes and their interaction with fluorescent adenosine nucleotides
Authors: Petrovic Arsen , Davis Colin T. , Rangachari Kaveri , Clough Barbara , Wilson R.J.M. (Iain) , Eccleston John F.
Published: April 2008

Bacteria, as well as the plastid organelles of algae and higher plants, utilize proteins of the suf operon. These are involved in Fe‐S cluster assembly, particularly under conditions of iron limitation or oxidative stress. Genetic experiments in some organisms found that the ATPase SufC is essential, though its role in Fe‐S biogenesis remains unclear. To ascertain how interactions with other individual Suf proteins affect the activity of SufC we coexpressed it with either SufB or SufD from Thermotoga maritima and purified the resulting SufBC and SufCD complexes. Analytical ultracentrifuge and multiangle light‐scattering measurements showed that the SufBC complex exists in solution as the tetrameric SufB2C2 species, whereas SufCD exists as an equilibrium mixture of SufCD and SufC2D2. Transient kinetic studies of the complexes were made using fluorescent 2′(3′)‐O‐(N‐methylanthraniloyl‐(mant) analogues of ATP and ADP. Both SufBC and SufCD bound mantATP and mantADP much more tightly than does SufC alone. Compared to the cleavage step of the mantATPase of SufC alone, that of SufBC was accelerated 180‐fold and that of SufCD only fivefold. Given that SufB and SufD have 20% sequence identity and similar predicted secondary structures, the different hydrodynamic properties and kinetic mechanisms of the two complexes are discussed.
Success of embryonic development of reciprocal hybrids of bream Abramis brama (L.) and white bream Blicca bjoerkna (L.)
Authors: Vetemaa M. , Kalda R. , Tambets M.
Published: April 2008

Success of embryonic development of reciprocal hybrids of bream Abramis brama and white bream Blicca bjoerkna was tested under laboratory conditions. Fertilization and embryonic development success of hybrids until hatching was high and comparable to that of pure species.
Hypoxia, low salinity and lowered temperature reduce embryo survival and hatch rates in black bream Acanthopagrus butcheri (Munro, 1949)
Authors: Hassell K. L. , Coutin P. C. , Nugegoda D.
Published: April 2008

Embryo survival and hatch rates were measured in black bream Acanthopagrus butcheri exposed to different treatments of dissolved oxygen: hypoxic and normoxic, three salinities: 15, 23 and 35 and two temperatures: 16 and 20° C. Hypoxic conditions (50% saturation) reduced 1 day embryo survival by up to 15% (P < 0·05) compared to embryos held in normoxic (>80% saturation) conditions. Temperature had no effect on the survival of embryos in these treatments, however, lowered salinity significantly reduced embryo survival at 20° C, but not at 16° C. Mean hatch rates were reduced by 10–28% in hypoxic treatments (P < 0·05) and lowered salinity treatments (P < 0·05). Hatching was delayed by up to 24 h at 16° C and very low (or zero) hatching occurred in hypoxic treatments at salinities of 15 and 23. These results confirm that environmental conditions in estuaries are important factors in determining spawning success of black bream and are discussed in relation to global warming and climate change that are likely to alter the physical conditions in southern Australian estuaries.
Deep‐sea scavenging demersal fish fauna of the Nazaré Canyon system, Iberian coast, north‐east Atlantic Ocean
Authors: King N. J. , Jamieson A. J. , Bagley P. M. , Priede I. G.
Published: April 2008

A baited imaging lander was deployed six times in the Nazaré Canyon at depths from 909 to 4361 m during August 2005 to investigate the demersal scavenging fishes. Species observed and lander‐derived abundance estimates were similar to previous data from the Porcupine Seabight and abyssal plain, north‐east Atlantic Ocean.
Microhabitat use by fishes in the middle course of the River Gambia in the Niokolo Koba National Park, Senegal: a unique example of an undisturbed West African assemblage
Authors: Reichard M.
Published: April 2008

Snorkelling surveys using a point abundance method revealed high levels of microhabitat differentiation among 14 fish species from a high‐visibility site in the middle reaches of the Gambia River. Habitat segregation was most strongly related to the position in the water column, flow velocity, substratum composition and presence of submerged wood.
The strontium content of roe collected from spawning brown troutSalmo truttaL. reflects recent otolith microchemistry
Authors: Waite E. M. , Closs G. P. , Kim J. , Barry B. , Markwitz A. , Fitzpatrick R.
Published: April 2008

The relationship between the strontium content of the outer layers of otoliths (an indication of recent marine, estuarine or riverine habitat use) and the strontium content of roe in ripe female brown troutSalmo truttawas examined in fish collected from the Pomahaka River and the lower reaches of the Clutha River, South Island, New Zealand. A close relationship was found between the strontium content of roe and the outer layers of otoliths. This finding suggests that spawned eggs collected from redds could potentially be used to track the extent of upstream spawning migrations by anadromous brown trout.
Catch composition and reproductive biology of Sphyrna lewini (Griffith & Smith) (Carcharhiniformes, Sphyrnidae) in Indonesian waters
Authors: White W. T. , Bartron C. , Potter I. C.
Published: April 2008

Data on the length compositions and reproductive biology have been collected for Sphyrna lewini in Indonesian waters, in which this species makes an important contribution to the biomass of its artisanal and small‐scale fisheries. These data were obtained by recording relevant body measurements and counts for this species while visiting Indonesian fish landing sites. The fish, which had been caught by gillnetting and longlining, covered a wide length range and included substantial numbers of immature, maturing and mature individuals. The vast majority of S. lewini <1100 mm total length (LT) had been caught by gillnetting, whereas most of those above this length had been obtained through longlining. The number of embryos in pregnant females, which ranged from 14 to 41, with a mean of 25, was positively correlated with the LT of those females. Birth occurred at c. 400 mm LT and predominantly in October and November. The number of females was similar to that of males among smaller fish, but far greater than that of males among larger fish. This presumably reflects a faster growth and greater longevity of females, selectivity of longlining for females and a tendency for males to move outside the area fished. For males, the relationships between clasper length and the extent of its calcification, and also with sexual maturation and LT have been determined. Females attained maturity (LT50) at a far larger size (2285 mm) than males (1756 mm). The LT of virtually all females and all males taken by gillnetting were less than their respective LT50 at maturity, and c. 67 and 51% of the longline catches of females and males, respectively, were likewise immature. This feature, together with the substantial catches of S. lewini and the life cycle traits of elasmobranchs, suggest that this species is likely to be prone to overfishing in Indonesian waters. Furthermore, the removal of large numbers of this apex predator will presumably be affecting the trophic structure in the waters in which it is fished.
Relationship between gape size and feeding selectivity of fish larvae from a Neotropical reservoir
Authors: Makrakis M. C. , Nakatani K. , Bialetzki A. , Gomes L. C. , Sanches P. V. , Baumgartner G.
Published: April 2008

Larvae feeding selectivity of Iheringichthys labrosus, Hypophthalmus edentatus and Plagioscion squamosissimus was assessed, examining the role of mouth gape in prey selection. Fish larvae were sampled in the Itaipu Reservoir (Brazil–Paraguay). Iheringichthys labrosus and H. edentatus larvae, with small and similar gape sizes, exhibited slightly different diets; I. labrosus preferred cladocerans (Bosmina hagmanni, Bosmina huauriensis and Bosminopsis deitersi) and the rotifer Brachionus calyciflorus. Hypophthalmus edentatus, however, primarily ingested the cladocerans B. hagmanni, Ceriodaphnia cornuta, Daphnia gessneri and Diaphanosoma spinulosum. Plagioscion squamosissimus, with a greater gape size, preferred Calanoida. The mechanistic processes that determine food selectivity of fish larvae in temperate aquatic systems were similar in the Neotropical system. The trophic spectrum of these species is characterized by small‐ to intermediate‐sized prey. Plagioscion squamosissimus larvae, which have larger mouths, exploit primarily larger prey differing from the most abundant species or size classes; consequently, their diet is quite different from I. labrosus larvae and modestly similar to H. edentatus larvae, opportunistic feeders that they eat more abundant prey.
Stable isotope profiles of partially migratory salmonid populations in Atlantic rivers of Patagonia
Authors: Ciancio J. E. , Pascual M. A. , Botto F. , Amaya‐Santi M. , O’Neal S. , Riva Rossi C. , Iribarne O.
Published: April 2008

In the present study, profiles of stable isotope composition were characterized for two species with partially migratory populations in rivers along the latitudinal gradient of Patagonia, brown troutSalmo truttaand rainbow troutOncorhynchus mykiss. The effects of factors (e.g.ontogeny of fishes, location, species and fasting) that may influence the stable isotope analysis (SIA) were evaluated, as was SIA evaluated as a tool to assign individual fish to their corresponding ecotype. Anadromous fishes exhibited enriched δ15N (15·2 ± 1·0‰; mean ±s.d.) and δ13C (−19·2 ± 1·3‰) relative to resident fishes’δ15N (8·8 ± 1·1‰) and δ13C (−23·2 ± 2·5‰). For both species, the difference in δ15N was larger between resident (range 6·8–10·7‰) and anadromous (range 14·3–17·8‰) fishes than that in δ13C. Values of δ13C, while not as dramatically contrasting in rainbow trout, provided a powerful anadromy marker for brown trout in the region. Increases were found in both δ15N and δ13C during the spawning migration of anadromous rainbow trout, most likely due to fasting. Differences in stable isotopes between location, size and species were found, suggesting different stable isotopes base levels in freshwater environments and different trophic levels and feeding location of anadromous populations. The SIA was demonstrated as a powerful tool for ecotype discrimination in Patagonian Rivers, overriding any effect of sampling location, size or species.
The diet of ruffe Gymnocephalus cernuus (L.) in northern lakes: new insights from stable isotope analyses
Authors: Tarvainen M. , Vuorio K. , Sarvala J.
Published: April 2008

The diet of ruffe Gymnocephalus cernuus was studied in two native populations in lakes of different productivity in south‐west Finland using both traditional stomach content analyses and stable isotopes. According to stomach content analyses, chironomids were the most important prey type in both lakes and the diversity of the other prey reflected the zoobenthos community in the lake. Stable isotope analyses of carbon and nitrogen showed distinctive lake‐specific and total length (LT)‐related patterns in both δ13C and δ15N values, which could not be explained solely with diet changes. In the large mesotrophic Pyhäjärvi, both 13C and 15N isotopes became slightly enriched with increasing ruffe LT, although stomach contents analyses did not suggest any diet change in larger ruffe. In the hypereutrophic Köyliönjärvi, the carbon isotope signatures of ruffe especially showed wide variation (−33·5 to −24·1‰), which was probably due to variable consumption of prey items with highly negative carbon isotope signatures. Overall, this study emphasizes that the interpretation of stable isotope results requires extensive background data of the system and that even then the diet composition of a consumer may be very difficult to define due to large variation in the signatures.
Chemically mediated learning in juvenile rainbow trout. Does predator odour pH influence intensity and retention of acquired predator recognition?
Authors: Smith J. J. , Leduc A. O. H. C. , Brown G. E.
Published: April 2008

The prediction that variability in ambient pH will influence the intensity and retention of learned predator recognition in juvenile rainbow troutOncorhynchus mykisswas tested under laboratory conditions. Juvenile rainbow trout were conditioned to recognize the odour of a novel predator at pH 6·0 or 7·0 and then tested for learned recognition of the predator odour at pH 6·0 or 7·0 at 2 or 7 days post‐conditioning. When tested 2 days post‐conditioning, rainbow trout exhibited a significant learned antipredator response regardless of predator odour pH. The response was stronger, however, when the test pH matched the conditioning pH. When tested 7 days post‐conditioning, rainbow trout only exhibited a learned response when conditioning and testing pH were the same. These results demonstrate that episodic acidification may impair the strength and retention of acquired predator recognition learning. Given the demonstrated survival benefits associated with learned predator recognition in prey fishes, such impairment will probably have considerable negative impacts at both individual and population levels.
A new species of the scorpionfish genus Scorpaena (Scorpaenidae) from Izu Peninsula, Pacific coast of Japan
Authors: Motomura H. , Senou H.
Published: April 2008

A new species of scorpionfish, Scorpaena brevispina, is described on the basis of a single specimen collected from off the east coast of Izu Peninsula, Pacific coast of Japan, at a depth of 45 m. Scorpaena brevispina is distinguished from other Indo–Pacific species of Scorpaena by the following combination of characters: pectoral‐fin rays 17; longitudinal scale rows 44; scales below lateral line 13; gill rakers 17; anterior surface of preocular spine with three vertical or slightly oblique ridges; lateral surface of maxilla without a distinct longitudinal ridge; lateral lacrimal spine present; extremely deep occipital pit; occipital pit rectangular in dorsal view, length distinctly less than width (length 53·3% of width); numerous small papillae on surface of occipital pit; pectoral fin relatively long (33·3% of standard length, LS), posterior tip extending beyond verticals through last dorsal‐fin spine base and second anal‐fin spine base; relatively short third to fifth dorsal‐fin spines (third spine length 14·6% of LS, fourth spine 15·5%, and fifth spine 15·8%, respectively).
Dendritic cells pulsed with α‐fetoprotein and mutant P53 fused gene induce bi‐targeted cytotoxic T lymphocyte response against hepatic carcinoma
Authors: Ren Jun , Jia Jun , Zhang Hongmei , Zhang Liwang , Ma Bo , Jiang Hanfang , Di Lijun , Song Guohong , Yu Jing
Published: April 2008

Dendritic cell (DC)‐based immunotherapy is rapidly emerging as a promising treatment in cancer therapy. We had previously shown that DC pulsed with either defined mRNA of tumor antigen (Ag) such as α‐fetoprotein (AFP), or total RNA of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) could elicit Ag‐specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response. Therefore, we suggested a novel DC‐based therapeutic method, in which DCs derived from CD34+ cells enriched peripheral blood mononuclear cells were pulsed with liposome‐coated AFP and mutant P53 (mtP53) fused gene pEGFP‐C3/AFP‐mtP53 to induce bi‐targeted specific CTL responses against HCC. Three different genotype HCC cell lines, HepG2 (human histocompatibility leukocyte antigens (HLA) A2 positive, AFP expressing positive, P53 expressing negative), SMMC7721 (HLA A2 positive, neither AFP nor P53 expressing positive), and HMCC97 (HLA A2 positive, both AFP and P53 expressing positive) were selected as targets for CTL responses. An important finding was that DCs pulsed with the liposome‐coated fused gene could evoke more intensive bi‐targeted Ag‐specific CTL responses against HMCC97 than DCs pulsed with either AFP or P53 single gene (P < 0.05). This experimental therapeutic model provides a new promising cytotherapeutic approach, in that DCs pulsed with the fused gene of different Ags might induce more extensive multitargeted antitumor immunity. (Cancer Sci 2008; 99: 1420–1426)
Interleukin‐2 potentiation of cetuximab antitumor activity for epidermal growth factor receptor‐overexpressing gastric cancer xenografts through antibody‐dependent cellular cytotoxicity
Authors: Hara Masayasu , Nakanishi Hayao , Tsujimura Kunio , Matsui Makoto , Yatabe Yasushi , Manabe Tadao , Tatematsu Masae
Published: April 2008

Cetuximab, a chimeric monoclonal antibody to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), has been proved to have clinically significant antitumor activity against advanced colorectal cancers, but its therapeutic activity for gastric cancers remains unclear. In the present study, we investigated the antitumor effect and action mechanism of cetuximab using EGFR high‐expressing (MKN‐28) and EGFR low‐expressing (GLM‐1) gastric cancer cell lines without gene amplification. Cetuximab showed neither significant growth inhibition nor induction of apoptosis in either cell line in vitro, and only slightly inhibited ligand‐induced phosphorylation of protein kinase B and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase in MKN‐28 cells. In contrast, cetuximab significantly inhibited subcutaneous and intraperitoneal tumor growth of MKN‐28 cells, but not GLM‐1 cells, in nude mice. This antitumor activity was significantly enhanced and diminished in nude mice by treatment with interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) and antiasialo GM1 antibody, which can expand and deplete natural killer (NK) cells, respectively. Antibody‐dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) of cetuximab, as measured by 51Cr release assay, was significantly higher in MKN‐28 than in GLM‐1 cells. This ADCC activity was enhanced by IL‐2 and reduced by heat‐aggregate of human immunoglobulin G, an inhibitor for FcR‐III of NK cells. These results suggest that cetuximab in combination with IL‐2 shows significant antitumor activity against EGFR high‐expressing gastric cancer mainly through NK cell‐mediated ADCC. Combination therapy with cetuximab and IL‐2 would thus offer a new potential therapeutic approach for a subset of EGFR‐overexpressing gastric cancers. (Cancer Sci 2008; 99: 1471–1478)