bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
N-Acetylglucosamine 6-O-Sulfotransferase-1-Deficient Mice Show Better Functional Recovery after Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Ito Zenya , Sakamoto Kazuma , Imagama Shiro , Matsuyama Yukihiro , Zhang Haoqian , Hirano Kenichi , Ando Kei , Yamashita Toshihide , Ishiguro Naoki , Kadomatsu Kenji
Published: April 2010

Neurons in the adult CNS do not spontaneously regenerate after injuries. The glycosaminoglycan keratan sulfate is induced after spinal cord injury, but its biological significance is not well understood. Here we investigated the role of keratan sulfate in functional recovery after spinal cord injury, using mice deficient inN-acetylglucosamine 6-O-sulfotransferase-1 that lack 5D4-reactive keratan sulfate in the CNS. We made contusion injuries at the 10th thoracic level. Expressions ofN-acetylglucosamine 6-O-sulfotransferase-1 and keratan sulfate were induced after injury in wild-type mice, but not in the deficient mice. The wild-type and deficient mice showed similar degrees of chondroitin sulfate induction and of CD11b-positive inflammatory cell recruitment. However, motor function recovery, as assessed by the footfall test, footprint test, and Basso mouse scale locomotor scoring, was significantly better in the deficient mice. Moreover, the deficient mice showed a restoration of neuromuscular system function below the lesion after electrical stimulation at the occipito-cervical area. In addition, axonal regrowth of both the corticospinal and raphespinal tracts was promoted in the deficient mice.In vitroassays using primary cerebellar granule neurons demonstrated that keratan sulfate proteoglycans were required for the proteoglycan-mediated inhibition of neurite outgrowth. These data collectively indicate that keratan sulfate expression is closely associated with functional disturbance after spinal cord injury.N-acetylglucosamine 6-O-sulfotransferase-1-deficient mice are a good model to investigate the roles of keratan sulfate in the CNS.
The Transcription Factor Mef2 Is Required for Normal Circadian Behavior in Drosophila
Authors: Blanchard Florence J. , Collins Ben , Cyran Shawn A. , Hancock Daniel H. , Taylor Michael V. , Blau Justin
Published: April 2010

The transcription factor Mef2 has well established roles in muscle development inDrosophilaand in the differentiation of many cell types in mammals, including neurons. Here, we describe a role forMef2in theDrosophilapacemaker neurons that regulate circadian behavioral rhythms. We found that Mef2 is normally produced in all adult clock neurons and thatMef2overexpression in clock neurons leads to long period and complex rhythms of adult locomotor behavior. Knocking downMef2expression via RNAi or expressing a repressor form of Mef2 caused flies to lose circadian behavioral rhythms. These behavioral changes are correlated with altered molecular clocks in pacemaker neurons:Mef2overexpression causes the oscillations in individual pacemaker neurons to become desynchronized, whileMef2knockdown strongly dampens molecular rhythms. Thus, a normal level of Mef2 activity is required in clock neurons to maintain robust and accurate circadian behavioral rhythms.
Aging-Related Gene Expression in Hippocampus Proper Compared with Dentate Gyrus Is Selectively Associated with Metabolic Syndrome Variables in Rhesus Monkeys
Authors: Blalock Eric M. , Grondin Richard , Chen Kuey-chu , Thibault Olivier , Thibault Veronique , Pandya Jignesh D. , Dowling Amy , Zhang Zhiming , Sullivan Patrick , Porter Nada M. , Landfield Philip W.
Published: April 2010

Age-dependent metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a well established risk factor for cardiovascular disease, but it also confers major risk for impaired cognition in normal aging or Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, little is known about the specific pathways mediating MetS–brain interactions. Here, we performed the first studies quantitatively linking MetS variables to aging changes in brain genome-wide expression and mitochondrial function. In six young adult and six aging female rhesus monkeys, we analyzed gene expression in two major hippocampal subdivisions critical for memory/cognitive function [hippocampus proper, or cornu ammonis (CA), and dentate gyrus (DG)]. Genes that changed with aging [aging-related genes (ARGs)] were identified in each region. Serum variables reflecting insulin resistance and dyslipidemia were used to construct a quantitative MetS index (MSI). This MSI increased with age and correlated negatively with hippocampal mitochondrial function (state III oxidation). More than 2000 ARGs were identified in CA and/or DG, in approximately equal numbers, but substantially more ARGs in CA than in DG were correlated selectively with the MSI. Pathways represented by MSI-correlated ARGs were determined from the Gene Ontology Database and literature. In particular, upregulated CA ARGs representing glucocorticoid receptor (GR), chromatin assembly/histone acetyltransferase, and inflammatory/immune pathways were closely associated with the MSI. These results suggest a novel model in which MetS is associated with upregulation of hippocampal GR-dependent transcription and epigenetic coactivators, contributing to decreased mitochondrial function and brain energetic dysregulation. In turn, these MSI-associated neuroenergetic changes may promote inflammation, neuronal vulnerability, and risk of cognitive impairment/AD.
Rapid Glucocorticoid Receptor-Mediated Inhibition of Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Adrenal Ultradian Activity in Healthy Males
Authors: Russell Georgina M. , Henley David E. , Leendertz Jack , Douthwaite Jennie A. , Wood Susan A. , Stevens Adam , Woltersdorf Wolfram W. , Peeters Bernard W. M. M. , Ruigt Ge S. F. , White Anne , Veldhuis Johannes D. , Lightman Stafford L.
Published: April 2010

A complex dynamic ultradian rhythm underlies the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) circadian rhythm. We have investigated in normal human male subjects the importance, site of action, and receptor-mediated processes involved in rapid basal corticosteroid feedback and its interaction with corticotrophin releasing hormone (CRH) drive. Pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC), ACTH, and cortisol were measured every 10 min from healthy males during the awakening period or late afternoon using an automated blood sampling system. Mathematical modeling into discrete pulses of activity revealed that intravenous infusion of the synthetic mixed glucocorticoid/mineralocorticoid agonist prednisolone produced rapid inhibition of ACTH and cortisol pulsatility within 30 min in the morning and afternoon. Any pulse that had commenced at the time of injection was unaffected, and subsequent pulsatility was inhibited. Prednisolone also inhibited ACTH and cortisol secretion in response to exogenous CRH stimulation, inferring rapid feedback inhibition at the anterior pituitary. Circulating POMC peptide concentrations were unaffected, suggesting that the rapid corticosteroid inhibitory effect specifically targeted ACTH secretion from pituitary corticotrophs. Prednisolone fast feedback was only reduced by glucocorticoid receptor antagonist pretreatment and not by mineralocorticoid receptor antagonism, suggesting a glucocorticoid receptor-mediated pathway. The intravenous prednisolone suppression test provides a powerful new tool to investigate HPA abnormalities underlying metabolic and psychiatric disease states.
Pharmacological and Genetic Accumulation of Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1α Enhances Excitatory Synaptic Transmission in Hippocampal Neurons through the Production of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor
Authors: Huang Yu-Fei , Yang Chih-Hao , Huang Chiung-Chun , Tai Ming-Hong , Hsu Kuei-Sen
Published: April 2010

Hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) is an important transcriptional factor in mammalian cells for coordination of adaptive responses to hypoxia. It consists of a regulatory subunit HIF-1α, which accumulates under hypoxic conditions, and a constitutively expressed subunit HIF-1β. In addition to the well characterized oxygen-dependent mode of action of HIF-1, recent work has shown that various growth factors and cytokines stimulate HIF-1α expression, thereby triggering transcription of numerous hypoxia-inducible genes by oxygen-independent mechanisms. In this study, we examined whether accumulation of HIF-1α induced by insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) has a regulatory role in excitatory synaptic transmission in hippocampal neuron cultures. Our results show that IGF-1 induced a time- and dose-dependent increase in HIF-1α expression that was blocked by pretreatment with selective IGF-1 receptor antagonist, transcriptional inhibitor, and translational inhibitors. In addition, pharmacological blockade of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt/mammalian target of the rapamycin signaling pathway, but not extracellular signal-regulated kinase, inhibited IGF-1-induced HIF-1α expression. More importantly, the increase in HIF-1α expression induced by IGF-1 was accompanied by increasing levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) mRNA and protein, which enhanced excitatory synaptic transmission. In parallel, blockade of HIF-1α activity by echinomycin or lentiviral infection with dominant-negative mutant HIF-1α or short hairpin RNA targeting HIF-1α inhibited the increase in expression of VEGF and the enhancement of synaptic transmission induced by IGF-1. Conversely, transfection of constitutively active HIF-1α into neurons mimicked the effects of IGF-1 treatment. Together, these results suggest that HIF-1α accumulation can enhance excitatory synaptic transmission in hippocampal neurons by regulating production of VEGF.
Type 4 Phosphodiesterase Plays Different Integrating Roles in Different Cellular Domains in Pyramidal Cortical Neurons
Authors: Castro Liliana R. V. , Gervasi Nicolas , Guiot Elvire , Cavellini Laetitia , Nikolaev Viacheslav O. , Paupardin-Tritsch Danièle , Vincent Pierre
Published: April 2010

We investigated the role of phosphodiesterases (PDEs) in the integration of cAMP signals and protein kinase A (PKA) activity following β-adrenergic stimulation, by carrying out real-time imaging of male mouse pyramidal cortical neurons expressing biosensors to monitor cAMP levels (Epac1-camps and Epac2-camps300) or PKA activity (AKAR2). In the soma, isoproterenol (ISO) increased the PKA signal to approximately half the maximal response obtained with forskolin, with a characteristic β1pharmacology and an EC50of 4.5 nm. This response was related to free cAMP levels in the submicromolar range. The specific type 4 PDE (PDE4) inhibitor rolipram had a very small effect alone, but strongly potentiated the PKA response to ISO. Blockers of other PDEs had no effect. PDE4 thus acts as a brake in the propagation of the β1-adrenergic signal from the membrane to the bulk somatic cytosol. The results for a submembrane domain were markedly different, whether recorded with a PKA-sensitive potassium current related to the slow AHP or by two-photon imaging of small distal dendrites. The responses to ISO were stronger than in the bulk cytosol. This is consistent with the cAMP/PKA signal being strong at the membrane, as shown by electrophysiology, and favored in cellular domains with a high surface area to volume ratio, in which this signal was detected by imaging. Rolipram alone also produced a strong cAMP/PKA signal, revealing tonic cAMP production. PDE4 thus appears as a crucial integrator with different physiological implications in different subcellular domains.
Identification of Caspase-6-Mediated Processing of the Valosin Containing Protein (p97) in Alzheimer's Disease: A Novel Link to Dysfunction in Ubiquitin Proteasome System-Mediated Protein Degradation
Authors: Halawani Dalia , Tessier Sylvain , Anzellotti Dominique , Bennett David A. , Latterich Martin , LeBlanc Andréa C.
Published: April 2010

The valosin-containing protein (p97) is a ubiquitin-dependent ATPase that plays central roles in ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS)-mediated protein degradation pathways. p97 has been recently identified as a putative substrate of active Caspase-6 (Casp6) in primary human neurons. Since Casp6 is activated in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients' brains, the targeting of p97 by Casp6 may represent an important step that leads to UPS impairment in AD. Here, we show that p97 is a Casp6 substratein vitroandin vivo. Casp6 cleavage of recombinant p97 generated two N-terminal fragments of 28 and 20 kDa, which were not generated by the other two effector caspases, Caspase-3 and Caspase-7. ATP binding to the D1 ATPase ring of p97 reduced the susceptibility of the N-domain to caspase-mediated proteolysis. Mass spectrometric analysis identified VAPD179as a Casp6 cleavage site within p97's N-domain. An anti-neoepitope serum immunohistochemically detected p97 cleaved at VAPD179in the cytoplasm of the cell soma and neurites of hippocampal neurons in MCI and AD. Overexpression of p97 (1-179) fragment, representing p97 cleaved at D179, impaired the degradation of model substrates in the ubiquitin-fusion degradation and the N-end rule pathways, and destabilized endogenous p97. Collectively, these results show that p97 is cleaved by Casp6 in AD and suggest p97 cleavage as an important mechanism for UPS impairment.
Stage-specific gene expression during spermatogenesis in the dogfish (Scyliorhinus canicula)
Authors: Redon Emma , Bosseboeuf Adrien , Rocancourt Claire , Da Silva Corinne , Wincker Patrick , Mazan Sylvie , Sourdaine Pascal
Published: April 2010

In the dogfish testis, the cystic arrangement and polarization of germ cell stages make it possible to observe all stages of spermatogenesis in a single transverse section. By taking advantage of the zonation of this organ, we have used suppressive subtractive libraries construction, real-time PCR, andin situhybridization to identify 32 dogfish genes showing differential expressions during spermatogenesis. These include homologs of genes already known to be expressed in the vertebrate testis, but found here to be specifically expressed either in pre-meiotic and/or meiotic zones (ribosomal protein S8, high-mobility group box 3, ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal esterase L3, 20β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, or cyclophilin B) or in post-meiotic zone (speriolin, Soggy, zinc finger protein 474, calreticulin, or phospholipase c-ζ). We also report, for the first time, testis-specific expression patterns for dogfish genes coding for A-kinase anchor protein 5, ring finger protein 152, or F-box only protein 7. Finally, the study highlights the differential expression of new sequences whose identity remains to be assessed. This study provides the first molecular characterization of spermatogenesis in a chondrichthyan, a key species to gain insight into the evolution of this process in gnathostomes.
Impact of Smoking on Human Bone Apposition at Different Dental Implant Surfaces: A Histologic Study in Type IV Bone
Authors: d'Avila Susana , dos Reis Leonardo Delfino , Piattelli Adriano , Aguiar Kelly C. S. , de Faveri Marcelo , Borges Fábio L. , Iezzi Giovanna , Oliveira Nilson T. C. , de G. Cardoso Luciana Ap , Shibli Jamil Awad
Published: April 2010

Smoking has adverse effects on peri-implant bone healing and can cause bone loss around successfully integrated implants placed on type IV bone. This study evaluated the influence of implant surface topography of microimplants retrieved from posterior maxilla of smokers after 2 months of unloaded healing. Seven partially edentulous patients received 2 microimplants (machined and sandblasted acid-etched surface) each during conventional implant surgery. Histometric evaluation showed that the mean bone to implant contact was 10.40 ± 14.16% and 22.19 ± 14.68% to machined and sandblasted acid-etched surfaces, respectively (P < .001). These data suggest that the sandblasted acid-etched surface presented better results than the machined surface after a short healing time in smokers.
Indirect Sinus Floor Elevation for Osseointegrated Prostheses. A 10-Year Prospective Study
Authors: Agamy Emad Mohamed Tolba Mahmoud , Niedermeier Wilhelm
Published: April 2010

The aim of this study was to evaluate the indirect/closed maxillary floor elevation technique for the insertion of osseointegrated implants to support fixed prostheses clinically. Thirty-one patients (19 female, 12 male) with a mean age of 62 ± 9 years were selected for this study. All patients needed implants in the posterior maxillary region to support osseointegrated prosthesis. Forty-seven implants were inserted using the indirect/closed sinus floor elevation method, and another 31 implants were placed in the same individuals as intra-individual control. No augmentation material was used along with implantation. The mean bone height before sinus lift was 9.78 ± 1.68 mm (minimum 5.6 mm), and for controls it was 15.62 ± 3.44 mm. The average length of the implants used was 12.00 ± 1.70 mm, whereas for controls it was 13.39 ± 1.60 mm. The patients were recalled for periodic checkups every 6 months, and the radiographic controls were made every 12 months. One control fixture failed after uncovering; 77 implants were loaded, and 5 of them failed (2 controls and 3 of the sinus lift group) between 3 and 59 months following loading. One hundred nineteen months after surgery (112 months following loading), the censored survival rate (Kaplan-Meier) was 93.6% for sinus lift implants and 90.3% for controls. The crestal bone level changes were not significant either before loading or after loading for both sinus lift and control implants. None of the remaining implants showed any signs of mobility or peri-implant disease, and none of the patients exhibited sinus problems during the entire observation period.
Scanning Electron Microscopy Fractography Analysis of Fractured Hollow Implants
Authors: Sbordone Ludovico , Traini Tonino , Caputi Sergio , Scarano Antonio , Bortolaia Claudia , Piattelli Adriano
Published: April 2010

Fracture of the implant is one of the possible complications affecting dental implants; it is a rare event but of great clinical relevance. The aim of the present study was to perform a scanning electron microscopy (SEM) fractography evaluation of 7 International Team for oral Implantology (ITI) hollow implants removed because of fracture. The most common clinical risk factors, such as malocclusion, bruxism, and cantilevers on the prosthesis, were absent. Seven fractured ITI hollow implants were retrieved from 5 patients and were analyzed with the use of SEM. SEM analysis showed typical signs of a cleavage-type fracture. Fractures could be due to an association of multiple factors such as fatigue, inner defects, material electrochemical problems, and tensocorrosion.
Language and Early Reading among Children with Orofacial Clefts
Authors: Collett Brent R. , Leroux Brian , Speltz Matthew L.
Published: April 2010

Objective

To test the hypothesis that children with orofacial clefts score lower than controls on measures of language and reading and to examine predictors of these outcomes.

Design

Longitudinal study tracking the development of children with and without orofacial clefts from infancy through age 7 years.

Subjects

Children with isolated cleft lip and palate (n = 29) and cleft palate only (n = 28) were recruited from the craniofacial program in an urban medical center. Seventy-seven demographically similar, unaffected controls were recruited via advertisements placed in area pediatric clinics and community centers.

Measures

Infant measures assessed child development and mother-child interactions during feeding and teaching tasks. At ages 5 and 7 years, measures of language functioning and academic achievement were completed along with an interview to collect school placement data and information on speech services received.

Results

There were no significant group differences in language at ages 5 and 7 years. Children with clefts scored significantly higher than controls on measures of early reading at age 7 years. Outcomes were predicted by demographic factors, the quality of mother-child interactions during teaching and feeding tasks, and cognitive development scores at age 24 months.

Conclusions

Findings do not support the hypothesis that children with clefts score lower than controls on neurocognitive and academic achievement measures. Predictive analyses revealed several dimensions that may be used in clinical practice to identify children at risk for learning and developmental concerns.
Psychosocial Adjustment in Children and Adolescents with a Craniofacial Anomaly: Diagnosis-Specific Patterns
Authors: Snyder Heather , Pope Alice W.
Published: April 2010

Objective

To obtain descriptive information about diagnosis-specific patterns of psychosocial adjustment for children and adolescents with craniofacial anomalies.

Design

Chart review of medical records was used to obtain psychosocial checklists. Scores were compared with published norms to evaluate elevated risk of problems, separately for six diagnostic groups.

Setting

Plastic surgery department in urban university medical center.

Participants

As part of routine ongoing care, 408 caregivers completed checklists assessing psychosocial adjustment of children aged 2 to 18 years with diagnosis of cleft lip and palate, cleft lip only, cleft palate only, craniosynostosis, hemifacial microsomia, and hemangioma.

Main Outcome Measure

Child Behavior Checklist ( Achenbach, 1991 , 1992 ).

Results

The craniosynostosis group showed elevated rates (beyond norms) of social, academic, and attention problems. The cleft lip and palate group showed elevations in social problems and deficits in social, academic, and activities competencies. The other diagnostic groups had few areas of elevated problems and had reduced risk in some areas.

Conclusion

Specific patterns of strengths and weaknesses in psychosocial adjustment may vary by craniofacial anomaly diagnosis. Replication of these findings, with extension to other craniofacial anomaly diagnoses, is warranted.
Effects of Velopharyngeal Dysfunction on Middle Ear of Repaired Cleft Palate Patients
Authors: Da Silva Daniela Preto , Collares Marcus Vinicius Martins , Da Costa Sady Selaimen
Published: April 2010

Objective

Cleft palates are strongly associated with the development of otitis media due to the anatomic and functional defect of the soft palate musculature and the associated alterations of velopharyngeal muscle insertion on tubal cartilage, or even intrinsic alterations of the cartilage, which affects eustachian tube function. This study will assess velopharyngeal muscle adequacy after palatoplasty through videonasoendoscopy and verify if there is a correlation with otologic status.

Design

Transversal study.

Setting

Otorhinolaryngology and cleft palate outpatient service of the Hospital de Clinicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), Porto Alegre, Brazil.

Patients

Seventy-three patients with cleft palate or cleft lip and palate between the ages of 6 and 12 years who had already undergone palatoplasty.

Interventions

Videonasoendoscopy for evaluation of velopharyngeal function and videotoscopy to assess middle ear status.

Main Outcome Measures

Severity scale for videonasoendoscopic and videotoscopic findings.

Results

There was no significant correlation between the videonasoendoscopic and the videotoscopic scores in the population studied.

Discussion and Conclusions

Intrinsic defects of the eustachian tube cartilage and of the insertion of the velopharyngeal muscles seem to contribute to the evolution of otitis media in patients with cleft palate, in addition to the actual defect of the soft palate. There was no correlation between the severity of the otoscopic findings and the degree of velopharyngeal dysfunction.
A Case of Congenitally Absent Left Internal Carotid Artery: Vascular Malformations in 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome
Authors: Johnson Matthew D. , Gentry Lindell R. , Rice Gregory M. , Mount Delora L.
Published: April 2010

Our report is on a Hispanic boy for whom, shortly after birth, clinical suspicion of 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11.2DS) was raised as a result of his characteristic features, including facial dysmorphisms and hypotonia. The 22q11.2DS was confirmed by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), noting a 22q11.2 deletion. Further evaluation revealed complete congenital absence of the left internal carotid artery and focal pachygyria of the left hemisphere. Multiple cardiac and vascular anomalies have been previously described in 22q11 deletion syndrome, but congenital absence of the internal carotid has not been previously reported in the literature. We present a clinical case report in detail of this unique 22q11.2 deletion syndrome associated finding.
Thermal‐deformation characterization of the panel of a TFT‐LCD TV. PartII: Solutions to thermal‐induced extrusion degrading image quality
Authors: Chu Chung‐Yi , Pan Min‐Chun
Published: April 2010

Abstract—The first paper of this series of papers explored the thermal deformation of a panel causing color distortion on TFT‐LCD TV panels. The heat source from CCFLs leads to thermal deformation of the LCD panel that extrudes the metal front shield and degrades image quality. The second part of this series of papers proposes two solutions to tackle the thermal deformation of the panel and improve image quality. In addition to developing a reliable procedure for the characterization of this thermal phenomena on the LCD panel, the goal of this work is to consider and justify two design modifications through numerical analysis and experimentation to reduce thermal deformation and color distortion. One modification provides heat dissipation on the direct‐lit BLU by opening apertures which effectively lower the temperature distribution in the BLU and on the panel without adding extra heat‐dissipation modules. The other modification adds partition pads to reserve an appropriate gap between the panel and the front shield for the prevention of extrusions even after thermal deformation of the panel. The applied approaches for soothing color distortion can be broadened to other TFT‐LCD TV products.
Linking process to pattern: estimating spatiotemporal dynamics of a wildlife epidemic from cross‐sectional data
Authors: Heisey Dennis M. , Osnas Erik E. , Cross Paul C. , Joly Damien O. , Langenberg Julia A. , Miller Michael W.
Published: April 2010

Underlying dynamic event processes unfolding in continuous time give rise to spatiotemporal patterns that are sometimes observable at only a few discrete times. Such event processes may be modulated simultaneously over several spatial (e.g., latitude and longitude) and temporal (e.g., age, calendar time, and cohort) dimensions. The ecological challenge is to understand the dynamic latent processes that were integrated over several dimensions (space and time) to produce the observed pattern: a so‐called inverse problem. An example of such a problem is characterizing epidemiological rate processes from spatially referenced age‐specific prevalence data for a wildlife disease such as chronic wasting disease (CWD). With age‐specific prevalence data, the exact infection times are not observed, which complicates the direct estimation of rates. However, the relationship between the observed data and the unobserved rate variables can be described with likelihood equations. Typically, for problems with multiple timescales, the likelihoods are integral equations without closed forms. The complexity of the likelihoods often makes traditional maximum‐likelihood approaches untenable. Here, using seven years of hunter‐harvest prevalence data from the CWD epidemic in white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in Wisconsin, USA, we develop and explore a Bayesian approach that allows for a detailed examination of factors modulating the infection rates over space, age, and time, and their interactions. Our approach relies on the Bayesian ability to borrow strength from neighbors in both space and time. Synthesizing a number of areas of event time analysis (current‐status data, age/period/cohort models, Bayesian spatial shared frailty models), our general framework has very broad ecological applicability beyond disease prevalence data to a number of important ecological event time analyses, including general survival studies with multiple time dimensions for which existing methodology is limited. We observed strong associations of infection rates with age, gender, and location. The infection rate appears to be increasing with time. We could not detect growth hotspots, or location by time interactions, which suggests that spatial variation in infection rates is determined primarily by when the disease arrives locally, rather than how fast it grows. We emphasize assumptions and the potential consequences of their violations.
What a difference a species makes: a meta–analysis of dreissenid mussel impacts on freshwater ecosystems
Authors: Higgins S. N. , Zanden M. J. Vander
Published: April 2010

We performed a meta‐analysis of published studies and long‐term monitoring data sets to evaluate the effects of dreissenid mussels (Dreissena polymorpha and D. rostriformis bugensis), two of the world's most problematic biological invaders, on the biogeochemistry, flora, and fauna of lakes and rivers across North America and Eurasia. Dreissenid effects were structured along two distinct energy pathways. For the pelagic–profundal pathway, large mean reductions in phytoplankton (−35% to −78%) and zooplankton (−40% to −77%) biomass occurred and were dependent on habitat type. The largest effects were found in rivers, followed by littoral and pelagic habitats in lakes. In contrast, benthic energy pathways within littoral habitats of lakes and rivers showed dramatic increases in mean benthic algal and macrophyte biomass (+170% to +180%), sediment‐associated bacteria (about +2000%), non‐dreissenid zoobenthic biomass (+160% to +210%), and total zoobenthic biomass, which includes dreissenid mussel soft tissues (+2000%). Our study quantifies the remarkable ability of these invasive mussels to shift aquatic food webs and energy flow from pelagic–profundal to benthic–littoral energy pathways, and it provides a basis for forecasting their impacts in diverse freshwater ecosystems. Our meta‐analysis approach was a powerful tool for moving beyond the idiosyncrasies of individual case studies and may be equally powerful for assessing impacts of other biological invaders.
Using a Cost‐Effectiveness Model to Determine the Applicability of OvoControl G to Manage Nuisance Canada Geese
Authors: CAUDELL JOE N. , SHWIFF STEPHANIE A. , SLATER MICHAEL T.
Published: April 2010

Abstract: OvoControl G is a relatively new product that reduces hatchability of Canada goose (Branta canadensis) eggs, and few data are available on its cost effectiveness. Variables such as presence of nontargets, alternative foods, and public support can affect cost efficacy. We present a model that uses these and other factors to estimate the cost of application of OvoControl G for managing nuisance Canada geese. We found that at low goose densities (<35 pairs of geese), fixed labor was a significant portion of costs. As goose densities increase, OvoControl G becomes more cost effective than other methods, such as egg oiling or addling. Managers can use this model to determine whether OvoControl G will provide a successful and cost‐effective treatment for population control of Canada geese in specific management areas.
Mark—Recapture Accurately Estimates Census for Tuatara, a Burrowing Reptile
Authors: MOORE JENNIFER A. , GRANT TANDORA , BROWN DEREK , KEALL SUSAN N. , NELSON NICOLA J.
Published: April 2010

Abstract: Estimates of population size are necessary for effective management of threatened and endangered species, but accurate estimation is often difficult when species are cryptic. We evaluated effectiveness of mark–recapture techniques using the Lincoln–Peterson estimator for predicting true census size of a population of tuatara (Sphenodon punctatus), a burrowing reptile that is a conservation priority in New Zealand. We found that Lincoln–Peterson estimates (NŇ = 85) were accurate for predicting the census size (N = 87) after only a 3‐day mark–recapture survey. We recommend this method as a cost‐effective way to accurately estimate population size for isolated, inaccessible tuatara populations, because it requires limited personnel, expertise, and time, and has low environmental impact on fragile sites.
Revisions of Rump Fat and Body Scoring Indices for Deer, Elk, and Moose
Authors: COOK RACHEL C. , COOK JOHN G. , STEPHENSON THOMAS R. , MYERS WOODROW L. , MCCORQUODALE SCOTT M. , VALES DAVID J. , IRWIN LARRY L. , HALL P. BRIGGS , SPENCER ROCKY D. , MURPHIE SHANNON L. , SCHOENECKER KATHRYN A. , MILLER PATRICK J.
Published: April 2010

Abstract: Because they do not require sacrificing animals, body condition scores (BCS), thickness of rump fat (MAXFAT), and other similar predictors of body fat have advanced estimating nutritional condition of ungulates and their use has proliferated in North America in the last decade. However, initial testing of these predictors was too limited to assess their reliability among diverse habitats, ecotypes, subspecies, and populations across the continent. With data collected from mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus), elk (Cervus elaphus), and moose (Alces alces) during initial model development and data collected subsequently from free‐ranging mule deer and elk herds across much of the western United States, we evaluated reliability across a broader range of conditions than were initially available. First, to more rigorously test reliability of the MAXFAT index, we evaluated its robustness across the 3 species, using an allometric scaling function to adjust for differences in animal size. We then evaluated MAXFAT, rump body condition score (rBCS), rLIVINDEX (an arithmetic combination of MAXFAT and rBCS), and our new allometrically scaled rump‐fat thickness index using data from 815 free‐ranging female Roosevelt and Rocky Mountain elk (C. e. roosevelti and C. e. nelsoni) from 19 populations encompassing 4 geographic regions and 250 free‐ranging female mule deer from 7 populations and 2 regions. We tested for effects of subspecies, geographic region, and captive versus free‐ranging existence. Rump‐fat thickness, when scaled allometrically with body mass, was related to ingesta‐free body fat over a 38–522‐kg range of body mass (r2 = 0.87; P < 0.001), indicating the technique is remarkably robust among at least the 3 cervid species of our analysis. However, we found an underscoring bias with the rBCS for elk that had >12% body fat. This bias translated into a difference between subspecies, because Rocky Mountain elk tended to be fatter than Roosevelt elk in our sample. Effects of observer error with the rBCS also existed for mule deer with moderate to high levels of body fat, and deer body size significantly affected accuracy of the MAXFAT predictor. Our analyses confirm robustness of the rump‐fat index for these 3 species but highlight the potential for bias due to differences in body size and to observer error with BCS scoring. We present alternative LIVINDEX equations where potential bias from rBCS and bias due to body size are eliminated or reduced. These modifications improve the accuracy of estimating body fat for projects intended to monitor nutritional status of herds or to evaluate nutrition's influence on population demographics.
Community Structure of Wetland Birds During Spring Migration Through the Rainwater Basin
Authors: WEBB ELISABETH B. , SMITH LOREN M. , VRTISKA MARK P. , LAGRANGE THEODORE G.
Published: April 2010

Abstract: Staging areas and migratory stopovers of wetland birds have the potential to function as geographic bottlenecks; entire populations within a flyway may be affected by the quality and quantity of available wetland habitat at stopover sites. Although approximately 90% of playa wetlands in the Rainwater Basin (RWB) region of south‐central Nebraska, USA, have been destroyed, the area still provides essential stopover habitat for >10 million waterfowl each spring. We evaluated community patterns and species associations to assess importance of assembly rules in structuring wetland bird communities during migration and to better facilitate multispecies conservation and management strategies. We surveyed 36–40 playas twice weekly in the RWB and observed approximately 2.6 million individual migratory wetland birds representing 72 species during 3 spring migrations 2002–2004. We evaluated spatial and temporal species co‐occurrence patterns of geese, dabbling ducks, diving ducks, and shorebirds using null model analysis. Goose species co‐occurrence scores did not differ from random in any year of the study, suggesting that goose species frequently use the same habitats during migration. Co‐occurrence patterns among dabbling ducks were not different than expected by chance in any year; however, when we evaluated co‐occurrence at a weekly scale, dabbling ducks co‐occurred less often than expected during weeks of peak migration (high abundance), indicating that dabbling duck species spatially segregated at high densities. Diving duck co‐occurrence patterns did not differ from random in any year, suggesting that diving duck species used the same habitats during migration. Shorebird species co‐occurred less often than expected in 2002 and 2004, and during weeks of high shorebird abundance, indicating that shorebird communities were distinctly structured during those times. Most association values among lesser snow geese (Chen caerulescens) and dabbling duck species were positive, indicating dabbling ducks did not avoid wetlands with snow geese, a concern for waterfowl managers. However, we frequently observed snow geese and dabbling ducks using different microhabitats within a wetland, which indicate species associations and co‐occurrence patterns may have occurred at a finer spatial scale than we measured. This approach of co‐occurrence analysis will allow wildlife managers charged with multispecies management at migration stopover sites to make informed conservation and management decisions based on community structure rather than historic single‐species approaches.
Condensed Tannins' Effect on White‐Tailed Deer Forage Digestibility in Mississippi
Authors: JONES PHILLIP D. , RUDE BRIAN , MUIR JAMES P. , DEMARAIS STEPHEN , STRICKLAND BRONSON K. , EDWARDS SCOTT L.
Published: April 2010

Abstract: Condensed tannins (CT) can reduce digestibility of forages for white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), potentially confounding estimates of diet quality and nutritional carrying capacity. We collected 143 spring and 142 summer samples of 8 important deer forage species from 22 properties in Mississippi, USA, and tested for CT content using a modified butanol‐HCl assay. Three species (partridge pea [Chamaecrista fasciculata], southern dewberry [Rubus trivialis], and roundleaf greenbrier [Smilax rotundifolia]) contained CT, ranging from 0.11% to 6.46% dry weight. Summer CT concentration was greater than in spring for 2 species. We ranked soil samples from least to most fertile using 8 chemical characteristics and found a positive correlation between fertility and CT concentration for 1 species and no correlation for 2 species. We tested effects of CT concentration on in vitro dry matter disappearance (IVDMD) and in vitro protein digestibility using samples of partridge pea and roundleaf greenbrier and rumen fluid from 3 free‐ranging deer. Average IVDMD was reduced 1.9% for each 1% increase in CT concentration. In vitro protein digestibility was reduced 2.5% for each 1% increase in CT concentration. Assuming that our methods reflect the effects of CT on in vivo digestibility, maximum loss of available crude protein (CP) in our samples was 3.0 g/100 g dry‐weight forage, and only 13 of the 112 CT‐containing forage samples (12%) would have decreased available CP by >1 g/100 g dry‐weight forage. Deer consuming equal portions of sampled forages would lose <1% of dietary CP to CT. Comparisons of foraging area quality using crude protein estimates should be unaffected by CT under reasonable restrictions of similar habitat types, soil fertility, and time. Given the ability of deer to forage selectively and the abundance of alternative forages in Mississippi, the potential for CT to substantially affect spring or summer diet quality of deer appears minimal.
Spatial and Temporal Patterns of Wolf Harvest on Registered Traplines in Alberta, Canada
Authors: ROBICHAUD CHRISTINE B. , BOYCE MARK S.
Published: April 2010

Abstract: Gray wolf (Canis lupus) populations are recovering in many parts of the world and managers from various jurisdictions will be faced with difficult decisions as wolf populations continue to increase. Wolf management in Alberta, Canada, is achieved mostly through trapping on a registered trapline system. Wolf harvest increased over the last 22 years relative to population increases. Most wolf harvests occurred in the Rocky Mountains and surrounding foothills area and this pattern was consistent over time. On average, trappers only harvested an estimated 9.8% of the provincial population annually despite the lack of bag limits or quotas. Harvests are spatially autocorrelated with peak autocorrelation coinciding with average home‐range size for wolves in Alberta. When wolf control actions are deemed necessary, trappers are unlikely to remove a sufficient number of wolves over a large enough area to limit subpopulations under the registered trapline system.
Argali Abundance in the Afghan Pamir Using Capture–Recapture Modeling From Fecal DNA
Authors: HARRIS RICHARD B. , WINNIE JOHN , AMISH STEPHEN J. , BEJA‐PEREIRA ALBANO , GODINHO RAQUEL , COSTA VǍNIA , LUIKART GORDON
Published: April 2010

Abstract: Estimating population size in a mark‐recapture framework using DNA obtained from remotely collected genetic samples (e.g., feces) has become common in recent years but rarely has been used for ungulates. Using DNA extracted from fecal pellets, we estimated the size of an argali (Ovis ammon) population that was believed to be isolated from others within the Big Pamir Mountains, Afghanistan, an area where access was difficult and expensive. We used closed‐capture models to estimate abundance, and Pradel models to examine closure assumptions, both as implemented in Program MARK. We also made visual counts of argali in the Big Pamirs, allowing comparison of count indices of abundance with modeled estimates. Our model‐averaged estimate for female argali in the Big Pamir was 172 (95% CI = 117–232), which was about 23% higher than our best assessment using uncorrected visual counts. However, mark‐recapture models suggested that males were not a closed population; thus, we were unable to provide a meaningful estimate of overall population size. Males either suffered much higher mortality than females during the sampling period, or, more likely, males moved in and out of the Big Pamir area. Although information from DNA did not provide a clear overall population estimate, it suggested that the Big Pamir was not isolated from other argali populations, which could not have been confirmed with visual observations alone. Estimating argali population size using mark‐recapture models and fecal DNA is feasible but may be too expensive for frequent monitoring of large and remote populations. Our study demonstrates the importance of sex identification and separate abundance estimation for each sex, especially if movement ecology differs by sex.
Comparison between Massage and Music Therapies to Relieve the Severity of Labor Pain
Authors: Taghinejad Hamid , Delpisheh Ali , Suhrabi Zeinab
Published: April 2010

Background: During labor, women experience a high level of intense, stressful and steady pain that may negatively affect both mothers and neonates. Painkillers have previously been used for childbearing women, but nowadays, owing to some well-known limitations and serious side effects, nonpharmacologic methods such as massage and music therapies are being broadly recommended. The present clinical trial was conducted to compare the effects of massage and music therapies on the severity of labor pain in the Ilam province of western Iran. Materials & Methods: Overall, 101 primigravidae who were hospitalized for vaginal delivery were recruited and randomly stratified into two groups of either massage (n = 51) or music (n = 50) therapies. Pain was measured using the visual analog scale and the two groups were compared in terms of pain severity before and after the interventions. Results: Mothers in the massage therapy group had a lower level of pain compared with those in the music therapy group (p = 0.009). A significant difference was observed between the two groups in terms of pain severity after intervention (p = 0.01). Agonizing, or most severe, labor pain was significantly relieved after massage therapy (p = 0.001). Conclusion: Massage therapy was an effective method for reducing and relieving labor pain compared with music therapy and can be clinically recommended as an alternative, safe and affordable method of pain relief where using either pharmacological or nonpharmacological methods are optional.
Levonorgestrel Intrauterine System: A First-Line Medical Treatment for Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
Authors: Nelson Anita L
Published: April 2010

Chronic heavy menstrual bleeding is a common gynecologic condition that causes significant health problems and negatively impacts a woman's quality of life. Surgical treatments should be reserved for women who have pelvic pathology and for those who fail medical therapy. The recent US FDA approval of the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system as an indicated treatment for heavy menstrual bleeding in women who want to use intrauterine devices for birth control highlights the potential that this top tier contraceptive method offers as a first-line therapy for treatment of this problem in women of any reproductive age, without sacrificing their future fertility.
Congenital Uterine Anomalies and their Impact on Fertility
Authors: Hassan Mohamed-Ashraf M , Lavery Stuart A , Trew Geoffrey H
Published: April 2010

Congenital uterine anomalies are not uncommon. Many are asymptomatic and have been associated with normal and adverse reproductive outcomes. The interference of these anomalies with a patient's fertility is an interesting but still debatable issue, and the proper management of infertile women with many forms of these anomalies remains controversial. The current literature regarding the frequency and probable causes of infertility among women with congenital uterine anomalies is insufficient to allow any robust conclusions to be drawn. Diagnostic and selection bias, a lack of objective diagnostic criteria for the different anomaly types and heterogeneity of study designs have contributed to the conflicting results from different studies of the prevalence of these anomalies among the infertile and fertile populations. However, emerging evidence from recent literature suggests causal associations between these anomalies (particularly the septate uterus) and infertility, and demonstrates significant improvements in the fecundity of women with septate uteri and otherwise unexplained infertility after hysteroscopic metroplasty. This review provides a critical update of the state of knowledge regarding congenital uterine anomalies, our current understanding of their effect on fertility and discusses how they can be managed from the reproductive perspective.