bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hormonal and Metabolic Profiles of High‐yielding Dairy Cows Prior to Ovarian Cyst formation or First Ovulation Post Partum
Authors: Vanholder T , Leroy JLMR , Dewulf J , Duchateau L , Coryn M , de Kruif A , Opsomer G
Published: August 2005

Contents

The present study aimed to investigate the pathogenesis of cystic ovarian disease (COD) in high‐yielding dairy cows postpartum (pp). Hormonal and metabolic profiles during the first 3 weeks pp as well as during the final week prior to ovulation/cyst formation, were compared between dairy cows that developed either an ovulatory follicle (OV) or a cyst (CYST) < day 60 pp. Thirty‐four lactations of 28 high‐yielding (9500 kg/305 days) Holstein–Friesian dairy cows were studied. Ovaries of cows were scanned twice a week from day 10 pp on, until ovulation/cyst formation. Milk yield data, body condition scores and blood samples, for determination of oestradiol‐17β, insulin,β‐OH‐butyrate and non‐esterified fatty acids, were collected simultaneously. Milk samples for progesterone analysis were collected daily. Four lactations were excluded from further analysis because of irregular pp ovarian cyclicity, excluding COD. Eight lactations (26.7%) developed a cyst, while 22 lactations ovulated <days 60 pp. Ovulation and cyst formation occurred at similar times pp. Metabolic and hormonal profiles did not differ between CYST and OV lactations during the first 3 weeks pp. In the final week prior to cyst formation/ovulation, insulin concentrations were lower in CYST than in OV lactations while no differences were observed for any of the other parameters tested. In two lactations, cyst formation was preceded by suprabasal progesterone and increased oestradiol‐17βconcentrations. These results suggest that cyst formation in high‐yielding dairy cows pp is associated with lower insulin levels but not with other distinct hormonal and metabolic alterations. However from this study, we cannot exclude the involvement of subtle hormonal and metabolic changes in the pathogenesis of ovarian cysts. Suprabasal progesterone, and altered oestradiol‐17βconcentrations, seem to play a minor role in cyst formation.
Repeat Ovum Pick‐up and In Vitro Embryo Production from Adult Ewes with and without FSH Treatment
Authors: Morton KM , de Graaf SP , Campbell A , Tomkins LM , Chis Maxwell WM , Evans G
Published: August 2005

Contents

Ovum pick‐up (OPU) was performed three times on adult ewes after synchronization with (n = 4) or without (n = 4) FSH treatment to investigate the effects of FSH treatment on the number of ovarian follicles, oocytes recovered, oocyte quality and development in vitro. FSH treatment increased the number of ovarian follicles (85 vs 162) and oocytes recovered (33 vs 91), although recovery rate was similar for ewes with and without FSH (91/162, 56.2% and 33/85, 38.8% respectively). Of the oocytes recovered, those classified as grades I and II were similar between ewes with (78/91, 85.7%) and without FSH treatment (27/33, 81.8%). The number of ovarian follicles was similar after repeated OPU for ewes treated with FSH, but for ewes not treated with FSH the number of ovarian follicles decreased with repeated OPU. The number of oocytes recovered decreased for FSH‐treated ewes only, while the oocyte recovery rate and proportion of oocytes classified as grades I and II were not affected by repeated OPU. Oocyte cleavage (46/78, 58.9% and 19/24, 79.2%) and blastocyst formation (35/46, 76.1% and 12/19, 63.2% respectively) were similar for ewes with and without FSH treatment. The number of ovarian follicles varied between ewes (p < 0.05) although the number of oocytes recovered and oocyte development in vitro were similar between ewes.
Follicle Turnover and Pregnancy Rates Following Oestrus Synchronization Protocols in Mediterranean Italian Buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis)
Authors: Presicce GA , Senatore EM , De Santis G , Bella A
Published: August 2005

Contents

An ultrasound assessment of follicle turnover following two different protocols for synchronization of oestrus and ovulation, as well as an assessment of achieved synchronization between ovulation and AI and conception rates in nulliparous and pluriparous buffaloes were carried out during months of increasing day length. Nulliparous buffaloes (n = 30) were subjected only to Ovsynch protocol whereas pluriparous buffaloes (n = 31) were assigned to Ovsynch (n = 14) or to PRID®‐pregnant mare serum gonadotrophin (PMSG) (n = 17) protocol according to the presence of functional CL confirming cyclic and acyclic conditions. Ultrasound examination of ovarian follicular dynamics at critical days in the course of synchronization treatments was employed to monitor the fate of the largest available follicles at the beginning of treatments. Such available dominant follicle would persist throughout the protocol as ovulating follicle (no‐follicle shift) or would regress giving way to a new follicle to become dominant and ovulate (follicle shift). Furthermore, ultrasound monitoring would determine the degree of synchronization of ovulation and final outcome represented by pregnancy rates. Pregnancy rate following Ovsynch protocol was 40% (12/30) and 42.8% (6/14) in nulliparous and pluriparous buffaloes respectively (p = 0.8575). Most ovulations were synchronized and recorded at AI and the following day in nulliparous (24/30; 80%) and pluriparous (12/14; 85.7%) buffaloes respectively (p = 1.000). A follicle shift was recorded in 14 of 30 (46.6%) and 11 of 14 (78.5%) in nulliparous and pluriparous buffaloes respectively (p = 0.0466). Among established pregnancies: eight derived from follicle shift (66.6%) and four from no‐follicle shift (33.3%) in nulliparous buffaloes, p = 0.0729 whereas in pluriparous buffaloes five (83.3%) derived from follicle shift and one from no‐follicle shift (16.6%), p = 0.6154. Collectively, from 18 pregnancies in nulliparous and pluriparous buffaloes following Ovsynch protocol, 13 derived from follicle shift (72.2%) and five from no‐follicle shift (27.7%), p = 0.0860. Pregnancy rate in pluriparous buffaloes following PRID®‐PMSG protocol was 70.5% (12/17). The majority of ovulations were synchronized and recorded at first, second AI and following day (13/17; 76.4%). A follicle shift occurred in 15/17 buffaloes (88.2%) and among the 12 recorded pregnancies, 11 derived from follicle shift (91.6%), p = 0.5147. In conclusion, pregnancy rates following Ovsynch protocol were similar in nulliparous and pluriparous cyclic buffaloes. A progestagen treatment on acyclic buffaloes but still displaying some ovarian follicular dynamics, resulted in significantly higher pregnancy rate compared with Ovsynch (p = 0.0376). According to the time of scheduled AI, a high degree of synchronized ovulations were recorded following the implementation of both protocols.
Field Experiences on Post‐cervical Artificial Insemination in the Sow
Authors: Roberts PK , Bilkei G
Published: August 2005

Contents

The present study was performed in order to evaluate the effects of post‐cervical artificial insemination (post‐CAI) in eastern European continental climate with multiparous sows. The sows were randomly allocated into two groups, and were AI by using CAI with 3 × 109 spermatozoa per dose (group 1, n = 859) or by post‐CAI, using pooled semen with 1 × 109 spermatozoa per dose (group 2, n = 924). Wean‐to‐oestrus intervals, duration of oestrus, day 24 pregnancy rates, farrowing rates, and total pigs born were evaluated. Wean‐to‐oestrus intervals (CAI 114.3 ± 4.1 h; post‐CAI 115.2 ± 5.2 h), duration of oestrus (CAI 64.1 ± 4.1 h; post‐CAI 65.0 ± 5.2 h), day 24 pregnancy rates (CAI 90.2 ± 1.7%; post‐CAI 89.3 ± 1.8%) and farrowing rates (CAI 88.1  ± 2.3%; post‐CAI 87.8 ± 2.9%) did not differ significantly between CAI and post‐CAI inseminated sows. The total number of pigs born differed significantly (p < 0.01) between the groups (CAI 12.3 ± 1.1; post‐CAI 10.2 ± 0.9).
Is motor neuron disease‐inclusion dementia aforme frusteof amyotrophic lateral sclerosis with dementia? An autopsy case further supporting the disease concept
Authors: Toyoshima Yasuko , Tan Chun‐Feng , Kozakai Tetsuro , Tanaka Masaharu , Takahashi Hitoshi
Published: August 2005

We report the autopsy findings of a 62‐year‐old man who exhibited progressive FTD 10 years before the appearance of muscle weakness and wasting, and who died approximately 11 years after onset of the symptoms. Degeneration and atrophy of the frontal and temporal lobes, which contained ubiquitin‐positive neuronal inclusions and dystrophic neurites, were evident. Circumscribed degeneration affecting the hippocampal CA1‐subiculum border zone was also a feature. Moreover, degeneration was present in both the upper and lower motor neuron systems, the latter being more severely affected. A few lower motor neurons were found to contain the cytoplasmic inclusions characteristic of ALS (i.e. Bunina bodies and ubiquitin‐positive skeins). Also of interest was the presence of pallidonigroluysian atrophy, which appeared to be responsible for the chorea‐like involuntary movements that developed in this patient approximately 2 months before death. The clinical and pathological features of our patient further support the idea that motor neuron disease‐inclusion dementia (MND‐ID), which has been classified as a pathological subgroup of FTD, is aforme frusteof ALS with dementia. In other words, if patients with MND‐ID live long enough, they may develop ALS.
Pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma with anaplastic features presenting without GFAP immunoreactivity: Implications for differential diagnosis
Authors: Gelpi Ellen , Popovic Mara , Preusser Matthias , Budka Herbert , Hainfellner Johannes
Published: August 2005

Pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma (PXA) is an uncommon, usually low‐grade, astrocytic tumor. Characteristic histological features include tumor cell pleomorphism and lipidization of tumor cells. Albeit prognosis in PXA is generally good, cases with histological signs of anaplasia have been observed. In these cases, the differential diagnosis needs to exclude other malignancies, for example, glioblastoma or malignant fibrous histiocytoma. Immunocytochemical detection of GFAP may support exclusion of non‐glial neoplasms resembling PXA. However, GFAP expression in PXA may be faint or focal, although complete lack of GFAP has not been described. A 43‐year‐old woman was operated on for a left occipital parasagital tumor attached to the dura. Histopathology showed a pleomorphic tumor with moderate mitotic activity and necrosis, lack of GFAP immunoreactivity and ultrastructural detection of premelanosome‐like structures. These features led to the tentative diagnosis of amelanotic melanoma, and the patient was irradiated. Three years later she had local tumor recurrence and underwent another operation. The recurrent tumor showed similar plain histology as the first specimen. In contrast, anti‐GFAP immunoreactivity was now detectable in pleomorphic tumor cells. Anti‐GFAP staining of the first biopsy was repeated using monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies in combination with prolonged tissue pretreatment. Focal GFAP staining of tumor cells was now achieved. We conclude that non‐standard GFAP staining protocols may enhance sensitivity and thus lead to detection of a low level of GFAP expression in tumor specimens, in which PXA is considered in the differential diagnosis. This may avoid misleading diagnostic considerations that impact on postoperative patient management.
The role of seed limitation and resource availability in the recruitment of native perennial grasses and exotics in a South Australian grassland
Authors: LENZ TANJA I. , FACELLI JOSÉ M.
Published: August 2005

Abstract  We investigated what factors lead to invasion of exotics or re‐colonization of native perennial grasses in the South Australian mid‐north grasslands. We manipulated 160 experimental quadrats by clipping, irrigation and seed addition and assessed recruitment by exotics in an area dominated by perennial grasses and perennial grass recruitment in an area dominated by exotics. Treatment effects differed with season for exotics: their biomass increased with irrigation in autumn and seed addition in winter. However, in both periods other factors, probably soil properties, also had a strong effect. We detected no perennial grass seedlings in the quadrats over 1 year, possibly due to unsuitable environmental conditions or persistent high competition levels. Under controlled conditions the presence of the invasive annual Avena barbata had a strong negative effect on the recruitment of the native perennial Austrodanthonia caespitosa at any moisture and nutrient availability. Avena also germinated faster and more frequently than Austrodanthonia, especially at low soil moisture. During an imposed drought Austrodanthonia seedlings survived longer in the absence of Avena. The results suggest that annual exotics are highly responsive to resources and can quickly invade areas, while the re‐colonization of invaded areas by native grasses requires a complex (and less likely) rainfall regime.
Anomalies in grasstree fire history reconstructions for south‐western Australian vegetation
Authors: ENRIGHT N. J. , LAMONT B. B. , MILLER B. P.
Published: August 2005

Abstract  A new fire history for south‐western Australian sclerophyll forests was proposed recently based on grasstree (Xanthorrhoea preissii ) records that were interpreted to show a high frequency (3–5 years) ‘pre‐European burning regime’. Such a fire regime appears incompatible with the long‐term survival of many fire‐killed woody taxa. We investigated the local fire history in a small area of the northern sand‐plain shrub‐lands of south‐western Australia using 15 grasstrees, examining individual grasstree records in detail and comparing this with the decadal or averaged approach used in the original research, and with fire histories reconstructed from satellite images for the period since 1975. Results lead us to question the utility of the proposed grasstree fire history record as a tool for understanding past fire regimes for two reasons: First, inconsistencies in fire histories among individual grasstrees were considerable – some individuals were not burnt by known fires, while some apparently were burned many times during periods when others were not burned at all. Second, the grasstree record indicates a possible increase in patchiness of fires since 1930, while contemporary evidence and interpretations of the nature of Aboriginal (pre‐European) fire regimes would suggest the opposite. We believe that further research is needed to identify to what extent the grasstree method for reconstruction of fire histories can be used to re‐interpret how fire operated in many highly diverse ecosystems prior to European settlement of Australia.
The rhizome and the tree: a response to Holmes and Gastaldo
Authors: Drummond John S.
Published: August 2005

Abstract  This paper both welcomes and explores the recent article in Nursing Philosophy by Dave Holmes and Denize Gastaldo. Holmes and Gastaldo's paper introduced us to Deleuze and Guattari's philosophical concepts of ‘arborescent thought’ and ‘rhizomatic thought’, respectively. These concepts were used to illuminate and critique certain aspects of contemporary nursing theory and educational practice. Arborescent thought is held to stifle and constrain the development of the discipline of nursing, while rhizomatic thought is presented as a more fitting way forward across a diversity of knowledges and methods of inquiry. We are thus urged to engage in a metamorphosis from an arborescent way of thinking to a rhizomatic one. The paper below, while applauding the introduction of these concepts into nursing thought, raises some questions as to their proposed utility and relationship as given in the paper by Holmes and Gastaldo. This is done in a spirit of collaboration, motivated by a desire to further explore the philosophy of Gilles Deleuze (and Felix Guattari).
A philosophical analysis of the concept empowerment; the fundament of an education‐programme to the frail elderly
Authors: Hage Anne Merete , Lorensen Margarethe
Published: August 2005

Abstract  The word ‘empowerment’ has become a popular term, widely used as an important claim, also within the health services. In this paper the concept's philosophical roots are traced from Freire and his ‘Pedagogy of the Oppressed’ to the philosophical thoughts of Hegel, Habermas, and Sartre. An understanding of the concept, as a way to facilitate coping and well‐being in patients through reflection and dialogue, emerges. Within an empowerment strategy the important claim on the nurse and the patient will be to reveal the patient's own resources and limitations in times with sickness and reduced functionality to promote the patient's choice to act and cope. From this point of view an education‐programme for the frail elderly is outlined. If the nurse wants to empower the elderly patient she has to be willing to be educated through the dialogue with the patient, and to look for the patient's own meaning of being frail and elderly. The coping and self‐care solutions for the patient may then even be different from the preferences of the nurse, and this does not mean that the empowerment strategy is a failure or that the patient then has to continue without the assistance from the nurse. Within an empowerment strategy, in the Freirerian sense, the important thing is that both the patient and the nurse together critically reflect on the meanings of the sickness so that the patient can be able to make his own conscious choices.
Courtship Behaviors, Relationship Violence, and Breakup Persistence in College Men and Women
Authors: Williams Stacey L. , Frieze Irene Hanson
Published: August 2005

This study assessed college men's ( n = 85) and women's ( n = 215) courtship persistence behaviors (approach, surveillance, intimidation, mild aggression), which have been linked to stalking, and examined their relations to initial courtship interest, relationship development, and future violence and persistence, while also exploring the role of gender in these relations. Findings showed individuals performed surveillance when initially more interested than the other. Whereas approach behaviors were positively associated with relationship establishment, surveillance and intimidation were negatively associated. As predicted, results showed continuity in persistence and violence over the course of dating relationships. For both genders, courtship mild aggression predicted relationship violence, and persistence behaviors predicted similar persistence at breakup. Early behaviors may foreshadow violence and stalking-related behaviors in both men and women.
Precursors and Correlates of Women's Violence: Child Abuse Traumatization, Victimization of Women, Avoidance Coping, and Psychological Symptoms
Authors: Sullivan Tami P. , Meese Katharine J. , Swan Suzanne C. , Mazure Carolyn M. , Snow David L.
Published: August 2005

Path modeling assessed (a) the influence of child abuse traumatization on women's use of violence and their experiences of being victimized, (b) the association of these three variables to depressive and posttraumatic stress symptoms, and (c) the indirect pathways from women using violence and their being victimized to psychological symptoms through avoidance coping. Among 108 primarily African American women recruited from the community who used violence with a male partner, women's use of violence, but not their experiences of being victimized, was predicted by child abuse traumatization. Women's use of violence did not directly or indirectly predict symptomatology. In contrast, child abuse traumatization and women's experiences of being victimized were predictive of both depressive and posttraumatic stress symptoms, and being victimized also was related indirectly to depressive symptoms through avoidance coping.
Relationship Violence among Adolescent Mothers: Frequency, Dyadic Nature, and Implications for Relationship Dissolution and Mental Health
Authors: Milan Stephanie , Lewis Jessica , Ethier Kathleen , Kershaw Trace , Ickovics Jeannette R.
Published: August 2005

This article examines whether the frequency, dyadic nature, and potential implications of relationship violence differ in parenting ( n = 163) and nulliparous (i.e., never given birth; n = 165) adolescent females from low-income, urban communities. We found the frequency and dyadic nature of violence did not differ between parental status groups. Over half of the adolescents in both groups reported relationship violence in the past year, with female-enacted violence more common than male-enacted violence. However, significant group differences emerged in the relationship between violence and subsequent relationship dissolution and mental health. Higher levels of female-enacted violence predicted relationship dissolution among nulliparous adolescents but predicted increases in depression in parenting adolescents. Findings highlight the need for violence prevention programs tailored specifically to the developmental and contextual needs of adolescent mothers.
The world is sound? Geography, musicology and British‐Asian soundscapes
Authors: Jazeel Tariq
Published: August 2005

This paper contributes to recent geographical engagements with sound and music by exploring the benefits of a geographical approach conversant with musicological and ethnomusicological tools and agendas within a specific political and empirical context: British‐Asian cultural politics and contemporary dance music. Doing so, it suggests, sheds new light on an existing body of anthropological and cultural studies literature that critically highlights the commodification of exotica in this type of dance music. The paper shows how analysing the spatial politics of British‐Asian musicality evokes the dynamic complexities around identity, belonging and the geographies of British popular culture and British‐ness generated through this mode of cultural production.
Einfach sprachlos but not simply speechless: language(s), thought and practice in the social sciences
Authors: Helms Gesa , Lossau Julia , Oslender Ulrich
Published: August 2005

Based on the authors’ experiences as German‐language speakers working at different stages of their careers within Anglo‐American human geography, this article reflects on the workings of (foreign) language, not only through academic publications but more widely in research contexts and everyday work. This is done by three personal observations, highlighting the relevance of (foreign) language interactions in terms of research practice as well as the poetics and politics of language. We argue that a wider recognition of language in the practical terms of academic work is called for in the light of an increasing ‘internationalization’ of academia.
Grassland productivity in an alpine environment in response to climate change
Authors: Zha Yong , Gao Jay , Zhang Ying
Published: August 2005

Situated in a climatically stressful environment, alpine grassland is sensitive to subtle climate changes in its productivity. We remedy the current deficiency in studying grassland productivity by taking the integrated effect of all relevant factors into consideration. The relative importance of temperature, rainfall and evaporation to the alpine grassland productivity in western China was determined through analysis of their relationship with the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) between 1981 and 2000. Climate warming stimulated grassland productivity in the 1980s, but hampered it in the 1990s. Temperature is more important than rainfall to grassland productivity early in the growing season. However, their relative importance is reversed late in the growing season. Monthly summer month rainfall modified by maximum monthly temperature is a good predictor of alpine grassland productivity at 62.0 per cent. However, the best predictor is water deficiency, which is able to improve the estimation accuracy to 78.3 per cent. Hence, the impact of temperature on grassland productivity is better studied indirectly through evaporation.
Multi‐scale landform characterization
Authors: Schmidt Jochen , Andrew Robbie
Published: August 2005

One fundamental objective in geomorphometry is to extract signatures of geomorphologic processes on different spatial scales from digital terrain models (DTMs) and to describe the complexity of landforms as the synthesis of those individual imprints. We present an approach for characterizing land surfaces on multiple, spatially varying local scales. We approximate terrain surfaces locally to calculate surface derivatives at different window sizes. Local scale behaviour diagrams are used to define dominant scale ranges and multiple curvatures for each surface point. Multi‐scale landform analysis leads to improved models of surface derivatives and new landform classifications, applicable in geomorphology, soil science and hydrology.
Tree integration in homestead farms in southeast Nigeria: propositions and evidence
Authors: ITE UWEM E
Published: August 2005

This paper contributes to wider debates on the dominant factors determining the emergence and sustainability of intermediate systems of forest management in developing countries. The theoretical framework and propositions for analysing tree integration in homestead farms are presented, with reference to southeast Nigeria. The paper argues that, first, at the household level, livelihood strategies constitute the main determinant of the decision to integrate trees in homestead farms. Secondly, induced innovation has a wider and more significant role at the community level than at the household level in encouraging the integration of trees in farms. Thirdly, the sustainability of observed patterns of tree integration is influenced by the interaction of environmental, ecological, political, economic and social factors. Based on these propositions, the paper analyses the internal (household) and external (wider community) factors influencing tree integration in homestead farms in southeast Nigeria.
The landslide hazard and human vulnerability in La Paz City, Bolivia
Authors: O'HARE GREG , RIVAS SARA
Published: August 2005

Landslides in the city of La Paz, Bolivia are complex in space and time. Their distribution within the city is differentiated by geographical variations in slope gradient, the nature of overlying surface deposits, and drainage density patterns. When mapped, the distribution of the most landslide‐prone locations in the city coincides with the most mobile surface deposits on the higher and steeper slopes of the city. The timing of landslides is triggered when slope materials become saturated with moisture by rainfall, stream water, water seepage from high surrounding water tables, and from domestic sources. Landslide frequencies over the last 40 years show the role of inter‐annual variations in summer rainfalls, especially the late summer period (Jan–Mar), and rising water tables connected to Lake Titicaca. Associations with ENSO events, both warm (El Nino) and cold (La Nina), prove negative, pointing to the importance of moisture sources from the north, south and east (Amazon) but not from the west (Pacific). The most vulnerable group exposed to the landslide hazard comprise the inhabitants of the self‐built informal housing areas who occupy the more elevated steeper slopes of the northern part of the city. But societal vulnerability to earth movement in the city is widespread and interconnected. Higher income groups in the southern part of the city are affected by slower, if less dramatic, forms of land failure, and rich housing in downstream areas of the city are impacted by flash flooding encouraged by deforestation on the northern hill slopes where the poor live. Two case studies highlight the vulnerability and plight of the inhabitants of the self‐built settlements in the aftermath of a major landslide, and a brief discussion of hazard mitigation and the importance of building hazard resilient communities concludes the paper.
Phylogenetic analysis of the myostatin gene sub‐family and the differential expression of a novel member in zebrafish
Authors: Kerr Tovah , Roalson Eric H. , Rodgers Buel D.
Published: August 2005

SummaryThe myostatin (MSTN)‐null phenotype in mammals is characterized by extreme gains in skeletal muscle mass or “double muscling” as the cytokine negatively regulates skeletal muscle growth. Recent attempts, however, to reproduce a comparable phenotype in zebrafish have failed. Several aspects of MSTN biology in the fishes differ significantly from those in mammals and at least two distinct paralogs have been identified in some species, which possibly suggests functional divergence between the different vertebrate classes or between fish paralogs. We therefore conducted a phylogenetic analysis of the entire MSTN gene sub‐family. Maximum likelihood, Bayesian inference, and bootstrap analyses indicated a monophyletic distribution of all MSTN genes with two distinct fish clades: MSTN‐1 and ‐2. These analyses further indicated that all Salmonid genes described are actually MSTN‐1 orthologs and that additional MSTN‐2 paralogs may be present in most, if not all, teleosts. An additional zebrafish homolog was identified by BLAST searches of the zebrafish Hierarchical Tets Generation System database and was subsequently cloned. Comparative sequence analysis of both genes (zebrafish MSTN (zfMSTN)‐1 and ‐2) revealed many differences, primarily within the latency‐associated peptide regions, but also within the bioactive domains. The 2‐kb promoter region of zfMSTN‐2 contained many putativecisregulatory elements that are active during myogenesis, but are lacking in the zfMSTN‐1 promoter. In fact, zfMSTN‐2 expression was limited to the early stages of somitogenesis, whereas zfMSTN‐1 was expressed throughout embryogenesis. These data suggest that zfMSTN‐2 may be more closely associated with skeletal muscle growth and development. They also resolve the previous ambiguity in classification of fish MSTN genes.
Evolutionary integration and morphological diversification in complex morphological structures: mandible shape divergence in spiny rats (Rodentia, Echimyidae)
Authors: Monteiro Leandro R. , Bonato Vinícius , Dos Reis Sérgio F.
Published: August 2005

SummaryThe rodent mandible has become a paradigm for studies on the development and evolution of complex morphological structures. We use a combination of geometric and multivariate morphometric methods in order to assess the correspondence between integration patterns and a priori biological models in the context of evolutionary shape divergence in the mandible of rodents of the family Echimyidae. The correlation of shape distances among operational taxonomic units (individuals, species, genera) in separate morphogenetic components allowed the construction of integration matrices among mandible components for data sets corresponding to varying levels of genetic divergence (intergeneric, interspecific, and intrapopulational). The integration matrices were associated with a priori biological (developmental, genetical, modular) models, and the maximum integration axes (singular warps) were compared with realized axes of maximum interspecific variation (relative warps). The integration pattern and intensity were not stable in data sets with different levels of genetic divergence, and the varying functional demands during the ecological radiation in the family were probably responsible for the differences in observed integration patterns. Developmental and genetic models were significantly associated with the interspecific integration patterns observed, suggesting a role for neutral evolution during the evolutionary divergence of mandible shape. However, directional and stabilizing selection were not discarded as processes responsible for the generation of interspecific integration. The choreography of the morphogenetic components in the mandible is highly flexible and the integrated groups of components can be reorganized depending on functional demands during evolutionary shape changes.
Dielectric Characteristics of Bi‐ and Ti‐Substituted Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3
Authors: Kim Yoon‐Sung , Kim Nam‐Kyoung
Published: August 2005

Pb[Mg1/3Nb2/3]O3 was gradually substituted by Bi[Mg2/3Nb1/3]O3 (BiMN) up to 30 mol%, with an overall modification by a constant fraction of PbTiO3 (10 mol%). Monophasic perovskite powders could be prepared via the B‐site precursor route. Ceramic samples of the system showed a typical relaxor behavior of frequency‐dependent dielectric dispersion. Values of the maximum dielectric constant decreased substantially with increasing BiMN concentration, whereas corresponding temperatures changed only moderately.
Crystal Structure of Zr2Al3C4
Authors: Fukuda Koichiro , Mori Satoshi , Hashimoto Shinobu
Published: August 2005

The crystal structure of Zr2Al3C4was refined by the Rietveld method from conventional X‐ray powder diffraction data. The structure was hexagonal (space groupP63mc,Z=2) witha=0.334680(6) nm,c=2.22394(3) nm, andV=0.215731(6) nm3, being isomorphous with that of U2Al3C4. The final reliability indices wereRwp=8.57%,Rp=6.06%, andS=1.32. The crystal showed an intergrowth structure with NaCl‐type ZrC slabs separated by Al4C3‐type Al3C2layers.
Improved Sliding‐Wear Resistance in In Situ‐Toughened Silicon Carbide
Authors: Borrero‐López Oscar , Ortiz Angel L. , Guiberteau Fernando , Padture Nitin P.
Published: August 2005

The effect of microstructure on the sliding‐wear properties has been studied in two types of pressureless liquid‐phase‐sintered (LPS) SiC ceramics, one with coarse, in situ‐grown elongated grains and the other with fine, equiaxed grains. Elongated‐grain LPS SiC has been found to have dramatically improved sliding‐wear properties over equiaxed‐grain LPS SiC, which has been attributed to the interlocking network of elongated SiC grains. The introduction of an interlocking network of elongated grains represents a new guideline for the microstructural design of polycrystalline ceramics that are both sliding‐wear resistant and toughened.
Low‐Temperature Synthesis of NiFe2O4by a Hydrothermal Method
Authors: Zhou Jun , Ma Junfeng , Sun Chong , Xie Lijin , Zhao Zhongqiang , Tian Hua , Wang Yonggang , Tao Jiantao , Zhu Xiaoyi
Published: August 2005

Nickel ferrite (NiFe2O4) nanoparticles were successfully synthesized via a hydrothermal process and characterized by X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscope techniques. The effects of reaction temperature, holding time, and RH ratio (isopropyl alcohol/water) were discussed. The NiFe2O4nanoparticles could be obtained at 60°C within 3 h. The crystallization of the spinel ferrites was promoted by the increase in reaction temperature, holding time, and RH ratio.
Osteoinduction by Functionally Graded Apatites of Bovine Origin Loaded with Bone Morphogenetic Protein‐2
Authors: Akazawa Toshiyuki , Itabashi Kohji , Murata Masaru , Sasaki Tomoya , Tazaki Junichi , Arisue Makoto , Kobayashi Masayoshi , Kanno Tohru
Published: August 2005

Bioresorbable and functionally graded apatites (fg‐HAp) ceramics, which are characterized by gradations in crystallinity and the grain size of hydroxyapatite (HAp:Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2), were designed using bovine bone by the calcination and partial dissolution–precipitation method. The fg‐HAp ceramics had macropores of 100–600 μm originated from spongy bone, and micropores of 10–160 nm. Fg‐HAp ceramics loaded with recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (rhBMP‐2/fg‐HAp) were implanted into the subcutaneous tissue of rats. Eight weeks after the implantation, the surface and bulk degradations of the fg‐HAp‐containing body fluid occured, and small pieces of fg‐HAp were incorporated into the induced bone and fatty marrow, suggesting that osteoinduction occurred in conjunction with bone remodeling. The rhBMP‐2/fg‐HAp ceramics developed could become a resorbable biomimetic material with fast bioresorption and osteoinduction characteristics.
Feedback‐Controlled Firing of Reaction‐Bonded Aluminum Oxide
Authors: Watson Matthew J. , Chan Helen M. , Harmer Martin P. , Caram Hugo S.
Published: August 2005

The reaction‐bonded aluminum oxide (RBAO) process utilizes the oxidation of intensely milled aluminum/alumina powder compacts that are heat treated in air to make alumina‐based ceramics. RBAO samples are typically oxidized in a furnace which is heated at 1°C/min to 1100°C. Heat‐treating samples with a characteristic dimension >1 mm, without adjusting the furnace temperature program, usually results in a cracked ceramic. Cracking is caused by the excessive thermal and chemical stresses that result from steep temperature gradients (>30°C/mm) and compositional gradients (>5000 mol·(m3·mm)−1), which develop under the deleterious ignition and shrinking core reaction regimes. While adjustments to the furnace temperature program based on continuum models have had some success, the use of feedback‐controlled firing is investigated as a means to avoid the furnace temperature program design step and to decrease the firing time. Feedback‐controlled firing is shown to improve yields and significantly reduce the time required to completely oxidize the aluminum. For example, a 16 g sample with a characteristic dimension of 7.56 mm, which previously took >100 h to oxidize completely, was successfully oxidized crack free in 18.3 h using feedback control. Using the typical heat‐treatment cycle, a 1 mm sample was fired in 18 h. With feedback‐controlled firing, the same sized sample was fired in only 5 h.
Improved Aging Characteristics of NTC Thermistor Thin Films Fabricated by a Hybrid Sol–Gel–MOD Process
Authors: Kukuruznyak Dmitry A. , Moyer Jerome G. , Ohuchi Fumio S.
Published: August 2005

Negative temperature coefficient thermistor oxide thin films with improved aging characteristics are described. Better thermal stability has been achieved by incorporating sol–gel techniques with metallo‐organic decomposition methods. A compositional range was identified whereby borosilicate may incorporate into the thermistor oxides, forming nanocomposites showing thermistor electrical characteristics. Thermistor thin films, with composition Ni0.48Co0.24Cu0.6Mn1.68O4·0.22SiO2·0.15B2O3 were deposited onto glass substrates from a solution containing organic transition metal salts, tetraethyl orthosilicate and triethyl borate. Electrical resistance measurements verified characteristic thermistor behavior. Nanocomposite thin films exhibited a factor of four improvement as compared with pure oxides after aging at 150°C for 500 h.
Fluoride exposure from ingested toothpaste in 4–5‐year‐old Malaysian children
Authors: Siew Tan Bee , Razak Ishak Abdul
Published: August 2005

Abstract –  Objective:  The aim of this study was to assess (by direct determination) the fluoride (F) exposure from ingested toothpaste among 4–5‐year‐old Malaysian children.

Methods:  This was part of a larger study to determine fluorosis status and F exposures. A total of 1343 10–11‐year‐old subjects were sampled by two‐stage systematic random sampling for assessment of fluorosis. Two hundred 4–5‐year‐old siblings of these index subjects were subsampled for determination of F exposures from ingested toothpastes and other sources. Estimations of F ingested from toothpaste (FI) was made by the method of difference between ‘F in toothpaste taken for use’ and the ‘F in toothpaste used but not swallowed’, by the duplicate technique under normal home conditions. F ions were determined with the combination selective ion electrode.

Results:  The subjects ingested 32.9% of the toothpaste placed on the brush. Fluoride exposure from ingested toothpaste was highly variable and the mean was 426.9 ± 505.5 μg (SEM 38.9)/48 h, or 213.5 μg/day and 131.9 μg per brushing.

Conclusions:  The amount of ingested fluoride (FI) per brushing in this study was the lowest of all studies reporting this parameter and was within the pea‐size range of 125–250 μg. Because of the highly statistically significant correlations between the FI from toothpaste and the amount of toothpaste dispensed (Pearson's correlation coefficient 0.647, P = 0.000), parents should assume responsibility for placement of toothpaste and limit the amount of toothpaste used.
Oral piercing and oral trauma in a New Zealand sample
Authors: Kieser J. A. , Thomson W. M. , Koopu P. , Quick A. N.
Published: August 2005

Abstract –  This study investigated the periodontal and dental trauma resultant from tongue and lip piercings in a convenience sample of 43 adult dental patients. Patients underwent an intra‐oral examination followed by the administration of a questionnaire. Each patient was examined for lingual or buccal recession of the upper and lower incisors as well as the extent of abnormal toothwear or trauma on these teeth. Following bivariate analyses, regression analyses were conducted to test the study hypotheses and derive adjusted estimates for the dependent variables. Of the 43 individuals who participated (93.0% females; mean age 21 years; age range 14–34 years) 76.7% had a tongue piercing, 34.9% had a lip piercing, and 11.6% had both. Only four had had their piercing procedure provided by a doctor or dentist. Postpiercing complications were reported by 34.9%. Most of those with a labial piercing (80.0%) had 1+ labial site with gingival recession (GR), and almost one‐third of those with a tongue piercing had at least one lingual site with GR. Age was a significant predictor of the prevalence of lingual recession, with the odds of having lingual recession increasing by 1.17 (95% CI 1.01, 1.35) for every year older than 14. Age was the only significant predictor of the number of lingual sites with recession, but was not a predictor of the prevalence of labial recession or the number of affected sites. There were no significant associations between piercings and abnormal toothwear or trauma. These findings suggest that oral piercings are associated with localized gingival recession, and that the providers of such procedures should ensure that, as part of the informed consent process, prospective patients are informed of the likelihood that their periodontal health may be compromised.
Odontoma‐like malformation in a permanent maxillary central incisor subsequent to trauma to the incisor predecessor
Authors: Nelson‐Filho Paulo , Silva Raquel A. B. , Faria Gisele , de Freitas Aldevina Campos
Published: August 2005

Abstract –  This report describes a case of a patient (1 year and 8 months old) with traumatic avulsion of the maxillary right primary central incisor and morphological changes in the germ of the permanent successor. One year after the trauma, an odontoma‐like malformation developed. This malformation was removed 6 years after trauma and orthodontic treatment was started. Clinical follow‐up and periodic radiographs are necessary after traumatic avulsion of primary teeth to monitor possible sequelae in the permanent successor. An odontoma‐like malformation requires a multidisciplinary approach.
Maternal environment affects endogenous virus induction in the offspring of type 1 diabetes model non‐obese diabetic mice
Authors: Kagohashi Yukiko , Udagawa Jun , Moriyama Kenji , Otani Hiroki
Published: August 2005

ABSTRACT  Type 1 diabetes results from the destruction of pancreatic b‐cells (insulitis). It is a multifactorial disease involving genetic and environmental factors, including the maternal environment. Viruses have also been implicated in the pathogenesis of human type 1 diabetes as well as in its model non‐obese diabetic (NOD) mice during the perinatal period, as endogenous viruses and/or as infectious agents vertically transmitted from mothers. However, the role of virus as genetic or environmental factor and its interaction with other maternal factors remain unclear. In a series of experiments, we transplanted preimplantation‐stage NOD embryos into the uterus of recipient Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) mice, which are without diabetic genetic predisposition, and NOD mice, which did not exhibit overt diabetes during the experiment, and designated offspring as NOD/ICR and NOD/NOD, respectively. We previously observed that NOD/ICR offspring developed insulitis significantly earlier than NOD/NOD offspring. To assess the role of viruses in the development of insulitis, we examined the appearance of viral particles and expression of retroviruses between NOD/ICR and NOD/NOD. NOD/ICR showed earlier expression of env region of the xenotropic type C retrovirus by polymerase chain reaction analysis than NOD/NOD, while the retrovirus‐like particles were observed in the islet b‐cells similarly in both groups by electron microscopy. Serum corticosterone level, which is suggested to enhance retroviral induction, was significantly higher in the ICR than in the NOD surrogate mothers. These findings suggest that the observed virus is endogenous and that maternal environmental factors, including hormone levels, affect the induction of endogenous viruses and cause the earlier onset of insulitis.
Characterization of mucin‐type core‐1 β1‐3 galactosyltransferase homologous enzymes in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Müller Reto , Hülsmeier Andreas J , Altmann Friedrich , Ten Hagen Kelly , Tiemeyer Michael , Hennet Thierry
Published: August 2005

Mucin type O‐glycosylation is a widespread modification of eukaryotic proteins. The transfer of N‐acetylgalactosamine to selected serine or threonine residues is catalyzed by a family of polypeptide N‐acetylgalactosaminyltransferases localized in the Golgi apparatus. The most abundant elongation of O‐glycans is the addition of a β1‐3 linked galactose by the core‐1 β1‐3 galactosyltransferase (core‐1 β3GalT), thereby building the T‐antigen or core‐1 structure Gal(β1‐3)GalNAc(α1‐O). We have isolated four Drosophila melanogaster cDNAs encoding proteins structurally similar to the human core‐1 β3GalT enzyme and expressed them as FLAG‐tagged proteins in Sf9 insect cells. The identity of these D. melanogasterβ3GalT enzymes with a core‐1 β3GalT activity was confirmed by utilization of MUC5AC mucin derived O‐glycopeptide acceptors. In addition to the core‐1 β3GalT activity toward O‐glycoprotein substrates, one member of this enzyme family showed a strong activity towards glycolipid acceptors, thereby building the core‐1 terminated Nz6 glycosphingolipid. Transcripts of the embryonically expressed core‐1 β3GalTs were found in the maternally deposited mRNA, in salivary glands and in the amnioserosa. The presence of multiple core‐1 β3GalT genes in D. melanogaster suggests an increased complexity of core‐1 O‐glycan expression, which is possibly related to multiple developmental and physiological functions attributable to this class of glycans.
The Cockayne syndrome group B protein is a functional dimer
Authors: Christiansen Mette , Thorslund Tina , Jochimsen Bjarne , Bohr Vilhelm A. , Stevnsner Tinna
Published: August 2005

Cockayne syndrome (CS) is a rare inherited human genetic disorder characterized by developmental abnormalities, UV sensitivity, and premature aging. The CS group B (CSB) protein belongs to the SNF2‐family of DNA‐dependent ATPases and is implicated in transcription elongation, transcription coupled repair, and base excision repair. It is a DNA stimulated ATPase and remodels chromatin in vitro. We demonstrate for the first time that full‐length CSB positively cooperates in ATP hydrolysis as a function of protein concentration. We have investigated the quaternary structure of CSB using a combination of protein–protein complex trapping experiments and gel filtration, and found that CSB forms a dimer in solution. Chromatography studies revealed that enzymatically active CSB has an apparent molecular mass of approximately 360 kDa, consistent with dimerization of CSB. Importantly, in vivo protein cross‐linking showed the presence of the CSB dimer in the nucleus of HeLa cells. We further show that dimerization occurs through the central ATPase domain of the protein. These results have implications for the mechanism of action of CSB, and suggest that other SNF2‐family members might also function as dimers.