bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nutrient release and resuspension generated by ruffe (Gymnocephalus cernuus) and chironomids
Authors: TARVAINEN MARJO , VENTELÄ ANNE‐MARI , HELMINEN HARRI , SARVALA JOUKO
Published: February 2005

1. Benthivorous fish may play an important role in internal nutrient loading. Ruffe are highly specialised, feeding exclusively on bottom animals; thus all nutrients released via their feeding are derived from the bottom and are new to the water column. The fish can also release nutrients from the sediment through resuspension while searching for food.

2. The aim of this study was to estimate experimentally in the laboratory the effect on water quality of resuspension and nutrient release by ruffe and bottom animals (chironomids).

3. Ruffe released nutrients during 8 h experiments as follows: total P 1.4, dissolved PO4 0.6, total N 24.0 and NH4‐N 15.9 μg g−1 WW h−1. A decreasing trend in mass‐specific release was observed over time, probably because of starvation. The mass‐specific release of total N and NH4‐N decreased as the mean weight of fish increased. The mean ratio of excreted N : P was 32.

4. In 26 h experiments with sediment and both ruffe and chironomids, ruffe increased nutrient concentrations and turbidity values significantly but chironomids had an effect only on turbidity. Neither ruffe nor chironomids affected the ratio of inorganic N : P concentrations. An interaction between ruffe and chironomids was found for turbidity.

5. According to these results, benthivorous fish may increase nutrient concentrations in the water column and need to be taken into account when estimating internal loading.
Ultraviolet and temperature effects on planktonic rotifers and crustaceans in northern temperate lakes
Authors: PERSAUD ANURANI D. , WILLIAMSON CRAIG E.
Published: February 2005

1. Anthropogenic stressors such as climate change, ozone depletion and acidification may act in concert to alter ultraviolet (UV) light and temperature regimes in freshwater ecosystems. These physical and chemical changes will inevitably affect zooplankton community dynamics, but little is known about their relative effects on different species in natural communities. During spring, species that migrate to surface waters to take advantage of warmer temperatures may be especially vulnerable as UV levels can be high.

2. The objective of this study was to investigate the in situ effects of UV and temperature on a natural assemblage of planktonic rotifers and crustaceans during the spring. We performed in situ exposure experiments in two lakes with different surface temperatures.

3. Exposure to UV had a significant effect on the abundance and/or reproduction of four rotifers: Gastropus spp., Kellicottia bostonensis, Kellicottia longispina, Keratella spp.; two cladocerans: Holopedium gibberum, Daphnia catawba, and one copepod: Leptodiaptomus minutus. Incubation under cooler temperatures had a negative effect on K. longispina and H. gibberum. Temperature and UV had a significant interactive effect on abundance and/or reproduction of L. minutus and Ploesoma truncatum. Our results indicate that changes in underwater UV and temperature can significantly influence the composition of the zooplankton community and ultimately food web dynamics.
Temporal variation in body composition (C : N) helps explain seasonal patterns of zooplankton δ13C
Authors: MATTHEWS BLAKE , MAZUMDER ASIT
Published: February 2005

1. The stable carbon isotope ratio δ13C is a useful tracer of energy flow in lake food webs, and the zooplankton signature is commonly used to establish a baseline for the pelagic habitat. However, sources of temporal variability in the δ13C of different zooplankton taxa are rarely considered.

2. Here, we investigate to what extent temporal variation in the δ13C of particulate organic matter (POM) (<41 μm) and the C : N of zooplankton can explain the temporal variability in δ13C of freshwater zooplankton. We compare temporal patterns of δ13C and C : N for Daphnia, Hesperodiaptomus franciscanus and Leptodiaptomus tyrelli over a 6‐month period at four sites in two oligotrophic lakes.

3. In all three taxa, seasonal variation in zooplankton C : N explained more of the variation in zooplankton δ13C than did the δ13C of POM. This suggests that variation in the lipid content of zooplankton can strongly influence temporal variation of δ13C in zooplankton.

4. Using these data, we evaluate procedures that estimate the δ13C of only the non‐lipid component of zooplankton. If zooplankton lipids are primarily dietary in origin, than extracting lipids or ‘normalising’δ13C based on C : N will exclude a major dietary source, and therefore may be inappropriate.

5. We conclude that temporal variation in body composition (C : N) of zooplankton can significantly influence the temporal variation of zooplankton δ13C signatures.
Comparative study of electron transport system activity and oxygen consumption of amphipods from caves and surface habitats
Authors: SIMČIČ TATJANA , LUKANČIČ SIMON , BRANCELJ ANTON
Published: February 2005

1. Respiratory electron transport system (ETS) activity and oxygen consumption were measured at 10 °C for the hypogean amphipods Niphargus stygius (from two epikarst locations) and N. krameri (from a sinking river in a cave) and the epigean amphipod Gammarus fossarum (inhabiting a spring and a river).

2. ETS activity and oxygen consumption were compared between caves and the two surface locations, and between hypogean and epigean amphipods. ETS activities were found not to differ between animals from different locations, or between epigean and hypogean amphipods. As expected, the oxygen consumption of N. krameri and N. stygius was lower than that of G. fossarum.

3. The high ratio between ETS activity and oxygen consumption (ETS/R ratio) showed that N. krameri and N. stygius possess high metabolic potential that can be exploited for energy recovery and rapid restoration of body reserves immediately following the appearance of favourable conditions (food and/or oxygen). In contrast, G. fossarum exhibited a low ETS/R ratio, indicating exploitation of a great proportion of the metabolic potential for standard metabolism.

4. Feeding in N. stygius increased oxygen consumption but not ETS activity, and thus fed N. stygius had a much lower ETS/R ratio than starved ones.

5. A relatively high metabolic potential (i.e. high ETS/R ratio) may be an adaptation to hypogean life in amphipods, in that it improves survival under poor food and/or oxygen conditions.
The 4D seismic signature of oil–water contact movement due to natural production in a stacked turbidite reservoir
Authors: MacBeth C. , Stephen K.D. , McInally A.
Published: February 2005

Combined time‐lapse reservoir simulation and seismic modelling has been performed on both 1D and 3D models of a channelized turbidite reservoir. The models have been built using core, log, laboratory and seismic data from the Nelson Field (central North Sea) as a template. Oil and water movement in the main channels, channel margins and interchannel regions is investigated, with a particular focus being the effect of poor net‐to‐gross. The analysis confirms that saturation effects dominate the response whilst stress‐sensitivity effects play a minor role. The trough–peak signature in the seismic difference volumes formed by the sweep of the water can be continued and mapped slightly further than the channel margins. This characteristic 4D signature remains roughly intact, despite the complicated depositional architecture, and accurately delineates the area of moved fluid, but it needs additional calibration to combat the detrimental influence of the low net‐to‐gross. Signal strength is largely dependent on reservoir quality, but is also compromised by the net‐to‐gross, fluid distribution and, more critically, by the exact timing of the seismic survey. For example, a region of bypassed oil zone remains undetected as it forms early during the production. This work demonstrates that to understand fully the 4D signature at a quantitative level requires adequate knowledge of the fluid properties, but also, more critically, the geology.
Improved understanding of velocity–saturation relationships using 4D computer‐tomography acoustic measurements
Authors: Monsen K. , Johnstad S.E.
Published: February 2005

A recently developed laboratory method allows for simultaneous imaging of fluid distribution and measurements of acoustic‐wave velocities during flooding experiments. Using a specially developed acoustic sample holder that combines high pressure capacity with good transparency for X‐rays, it becomes possible to investigate relationships between velocity and fluid saturation at reservoir stress levels. High‐resolution 3D images can be constructed from thin slices of cross‐sectional computer‐tomography scans (CT scans) covering the entire rock‐core volume, and from imaging the distribution of fluid at different saturation levels. The X‐ray imaging clearly adds a new dimension to rock‐physics measurements; it can be used in the explanation of variations in measured velocities from core‐scale heterogeneities. Computer tomography gives a detailed visualization of density regimes in reservoir rocks within a core. This allows an examination of the interior of core samples, revealing inhomogeneities, porosity and fluid distribution. This mapping will not only lead to an explanation of acoustic‐velocity measurements; it may also contribute to an increased understanding of the fluid‐flow process and gas/liquid mixing mechanisms in rock. Immiscible and miscible flow in core plugs can be mapped simultaneously with acoustic measurements. The effects of core heterogeneity and experimentally introduced effects can be separated, to clarify the validity of measured velocity relationships.
Seismic preprocessing and amplitude cross‐calibration for a time‐lapse amplitude study on seismic data from the Oseberg reservoir
Authors: Stucchi E. , Mazzotti A. , Ciuffi S.
Published: February 2005

The cross‐calibration of different vintage data is an important prerequisite in attempting to determine the time‐lapse seismic effects induced by hydrocarbon production in a reservoir. This paper reports the preprocessing and cross‐calibration procedures adopted to modify the data of four seismic vintages (1982, 1989, 1992 and 1999) from the Oseberg field in the North Sea, for optimal conditions for a time‐lapse seismic amplitude analysis. The final results, in terms of time‐lapse variations, of acoustic impedance and of amplitude‐versus‐offset, are illustrated for selected data sets. The application of preprocessing to each individual vintage data set reduces the effects of the different acquisition and noise conditions, and leads to consistency in the amplitude response of the four vintages. This consistency facilitates the final amplitude cross‐calibration that is carried out using, as reference, the Cretaceous horizon reflections above the Brent reservoir. Such cross‐calibration can be considered as vintage‐consistent residual amplitude correction.

Acoustic impedance sections, intercept and gradient amplitude‐versus‐offset attributes and coherent amplitude‐versus‐offset estimates are computed on the final cross‐calibrated data. The results, shown for three spatially coincident 2D lines selected from the 1982, 1989 and 1999 data sets, clearly indicate gas‐cap expansion resulting from oil production. Such expansion is manifested as a decrease in acoustic impedance and a modification of the amplitude‐versus‐offset trends in the apical part of the reservoir.
Modelling of the drying of eggplants in thin‐layers
Authors: Akpinar Ebru Kavak , Bicer Yasar
Published: February 2005

In this paper, the thin‐layer drying behaviour of eggplant slices (6 mm thick layers) in a convective‐type cyclone dryer is reported. Thin‐layer drying experiments were conducted at drying air temperatures of 55, 65 and 75 °C and dry air velocities of 1 and 1.5 ms−1. Data on sample mass, temperature and velocity of the dry air were recorded continuously during each test. In order to estimate and select a suitable form of the drying curve, eight different semi‐theoretical and/or empirical models were fitted to the experimental data and comparisons made of their coefficients of determination as predicted by non‐linear regression analysis. The Page model best described the drying curve of eggplant, with a correlation coefficient, r = 0.9999.
Microwave finish drying of (tapioca) starch pearls
Authors: Fu Yi‐Chung , Dai Li , Yang Binghuei B.
Published: February 2005

Starch pearls are extremely sensitive to the rate of drying. Fast drying leads to poor quality of final cooked (rehydrated) products. The objectives of this study were to reduce the lengthy drying time by incorporating low‐power microwave finish drying and to evaluate the rehydrated quality of starch pearls. The effects of temperature and relative humidity on the drying rates of starch pearls in the constant‐rate period were determined. When evaluating the saving of time, microwave energy efficiency and rehydration quality, the best results were obtained when combined natural convection and microwave finish drying were carried out at low power levels (119–143 W). Microwave finish drying reduced the natural convective drying time by about 50–75%, with an improvement in quality, as indicated by higher unbroken ratio, less cooking loss and shorter cooking time.
A preliminary comparison of polybrominated diphenyl ether concentrations relative to lipid content and to levels of dioxins and dioxin‐like polychlorinated biphenyls in Norwegian farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)
Authors: Bethune Claudette , Julshamn Kåre , Lundebye Anne‐Katrine
Published: February 2005

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are environmental contaminants structurally similar to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and correlations between PBDE concentrations and concentrations of lipid, PCBs, dioxins and furans in feed and farmed Atlantic salmon filet indicate PBDEs may be derived from similar sources. PBDE concentrations (3.9 ± 0.6 ng g−1 wet wt) in farmed Atlantic salmon correlated well with lipid content and these other halogenated contaminants, however, lower concentrations of PBDEs (1.6 ± 0.3 ng g−1 wet wt) showed no correlation. Possible explanations for the non‐linear behaviour of PBDE concentrations in Atlantic salmon are discussed.
The moisture dependent physical and mechanical properties of whole lentil pulse and split cotyledon
Authors: Bhattacharya Sila , Narasimha Hampapura V. , Bhattacharya Suvendu
Published: February 2005

Some physical and mechanical properties of lentil whole grain/pulse and dhal (dehusked split pulse), at different moisture contents were determined. Among the physical properties, size, sphericity, roundness, average surface area, bulk density and void fraction were determined. Bulk densities of whole pulse were between 785 and 831 kg m−3, whereas for dhal they were between 741 and 840 kg m−3 and bulk density decreased as moisture content was increased for both the whole grain and the dhal. The compression behaviour was judged by determining the firmness and the linear elastic limit, of which the former decreased with moisture content but the linear elastic limit increased. A method is proposed to calculate the total surface area of dhal and whole pulse. Photomicrographs showed the thickness of the outer seed coat to be between 25 and 65 microns.
Water activity of multicomponent mixture of solutes and non‐solutes
Authors: Caurie Matthew
Published: February 2005

An equation has been derived to calculate the water activity (Aw) of multicomponent mixtures of solutes and non‐solutes. The equation is based on a previous Caurie adsorption equation and it depends on the number of component ingredients and the initial moisture contents of the ingredients in the mixture. Solute and non‐solute/water interaction effects in solution were identified as playing important roles in determining accurate equilibrium Aws of the aqueous mixtures. The new equation allows for interaction effects in mixed solution/suspensions and has been tested on model foods (the data was taken from the literature) containing up to five solutes and non‐solute components. The equation displays a high degree of accuracy. Unlike the Ross equation, which applies only approximately to mixtures of dilute solutions, the new equation applies to mixtures at all solution concentrations and to wet solids.
Fever management: paediatric nurses’ knowledge, attitudes and influencing factors
Authors: Walsh Anne M. , Edwards Helen E. , Courtney Mary D. , Wilson Jenny E. , Monaghan Sarah J.
Published: February 2005

Aims.  This paper describes Australian paediatric nurses’ knowledge of and attitudes toward fever and its management and the predictors of their intentions to administer paracetamol to a febrile child.

Background.  Despite evidence‐based support for the beneficial effects of fever over the past three decades, health professionals’ negative attitudes toward fever and their reliance on antipyretics to reduce it have persisted and continue to be reported in the literature.

Methods.  A self‐report questionnaire was used. An instrument was developed, piloted by test–retest and revised prior to data collection. Fifty‐one paediatric nurses working in medical wards of a metropolitan paediatric hospital in Australia participated.

Results.  Nurses’ mean knowledge score about the physiology of fever, general fever management and antipyretics was 62%, which was not as high as expected. Participants reported positive attitudes toward the benefits of fever, the necessity for its reduction in children with pre‐existing cardiac or respiratory conditions and towards regular antipyretic administration masking the infective process. Negative attitudes included disbelief that temperature is often unrelated to illness severity. Conflicting attitudes toward febrile convulsions were highlighted by beliefs that antipyretic therapy prevents these and that antipyretics do not prevent initial febrile convulsions. Predictors of intentions to administer paracetamol were beliefs about the effectiveness of paracetamol and nurses’ beliefs about the expectations of others in relation to paracetamol administration. Nurses reported strong intentions to administer paracetamol to the next febrile child they cared for. Limitations of the study include the use of a nurse manager for recruitment and collecting the data at only one site.

Conclusions.  Fever management is an integral aspect of paediatric nursing. For its consistent rational management, nurses must have appropriate knowledge and positive attitudes. This highlights the need for continuing education in fever management.
Patients’ evaluations of the quality of care: influencing factors and the importance of engagement
Authors: Staniszewska Sophie H. , Henderson Lorna
Published: February 2005

Aims.  This paper reports a study exploring the process of patient evaluation and identifying the factors which influence this.

Background.  Patient experiences of health care have become a central focus for researchers, policymakers, clinicians and patient groups in many countries. While surveys of patient experiences have become increasingly common internationally, concerns about the validity of concepts such as satisfaction have cast doubt on the utility of their findings. These concerns reflect our limited understanding of patient evaluation and the factors that can influence this process.

Methods.  A qualitative design was adopted, using semi‐structured interviews with a sample of outpatients in their homes in one county in England. In total, 41 patients participated in the study and were interviewed before their appointment. Of these patients, 37 were interviewed again after their appointment. Six of the latter were then re‐interviewed 6 weeks after the appointment to explore whether evaluations had changed.

Findings.  Patient evaluation was influenced by a number of factors, including gratitude, faith, loyalty, luck and equity. The overall effect was to prompt positive evaluation, even when care was poor. These factors should be accounted for in the interpretation of patient experiences surveys. Patient experiences were further influenced by their sense of engagement with the system. A negative sense of engagement could have a major impact on the patient, resulting in disappointment or fear and a desire to leave the health care system, and in a negative evaluation of a specific aspect of care.

Conclusions.  Engagement may provide a more appropriate indicator of negative experience than dissatisfaction. The influence of these factors should be considered in future attempts to develop more sensitive and appropriate methods of eliciting patient experiences.
Endothelin receptor blockade improves endothelial function in atherosclerotic patients on angiotensin converting enzyme inhibition
Authors: BÖHM F. , BELTRAN E. , PERNOW J.
Published: February 2005

Objectives.  Endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) and angiotensin II may contribute to endothelial dysfunction, which is associated with increased risk of events in patients with coronary artery disease. The objective was to test whether dual ETA/ETB receptor antagonism improves endothelium‐dependent vasodilatation (EDV) in atherosclerotic patients, also on treatment with angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor.

Design and setting.  EDV and endothelium‐independent vasodilatation were determined in 37 patients with atherosclerosis during measurement of forearm blood flow (FBF) with venous occlusion plethysmography. The patients were then randomized to treatment with ramipril 10 mg o.d. (n = 21) or placebo (n = 16) for 3 months in a double‐blind fashion.

Results.  Intra‐arterial infusion of the ETA receptor antagonist BQ123 and the ETB receptor antagonist BQ788 (both 10 nmol min−1) increased basal FBF by 42 ± 4% (P < 0.001) and enhanced EDV (P < 0.001). Following 3 months ramipril treatment, ET receptor blockade still enhanced EDV. Acetylcholine 10 and 30 mg min−1 increased FBF by 68 ± 12 and 64 ± 12 mL min−1/1000 mL before vs. 101 ± 17 and 101 ± 16 mL min−1/1000 mL following ET receptor blockade in the ramipril group (P < 0.001).

Conclusions.  Dual ETA/ETB receptor blockade improves endothelial function and exerts direct vasodilator effects in patients with atherosclerosis, also on treatment with ramipril suggesting that ET receptor blockade may have important therapeutic effects when added to ACE inhibition in these patients.
Chronic fatigue syndrome: assessment of increased oxidative stress and altered muscle excitability in response to incremental exercise
Authors: JAMMES Y. , STEINBERG J. G. , MAMBRINI O. , BRÉGEON F. , DELLIAUX S.
Published: February 2005

Objectives.  Because the muscle response to incremental exercise is not well documented in patients suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), we combined electrophysiological (compound‐evoked muscle action potential, M wave), and biochemical (lactic acid production, oxidative stress) measurements to assess any muscle dysfunction in response to a routine cycling exercise.

Design.  This case–control study compared 15 CFS patients to a gender‐, age‐ and weight‐matched control group (n = 11) of healthy subjects.

Interventions.  All subjects performed an incre‐mental cycling exercise continued until exhaustion.

Main outcome measures.  We measured the oxygen uptake (Vo2), heart rate (HR), systemic blood pressure, percutaneous O2 saturation (SpO2), M‐wave recording from vastus lateralis, and venous blood sampling allowing measurements of pH (pHv), PO2 (PvO2), lactic acid (LA), and three markers of the oxidative stress (thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances, TBARS, reduced glutathione, GSH, and ascorbic acid, RAA).

Results.  Compared with control, in CFS patients (i) the slope of Vo2 versus work load relationship did not differ from control subjects and there was a tendency for an accentuated PvO2 fall at the same exercise intensity, indicating an increased oxygen uptake by the exercising muscles; (ii) the HR and blood pressure responses to exercise did not vary; (iii) the anaerobic pathways were not accentuated; (iv) the exercise‐induced oxidative stress was enhanced with early changes in TBARS and RAA and enhanced maximal RAA consumption; and (v) the M‐wave duration markedly increased during the recovery period.

Conclusions.  The response of CFS patients to incremental exercise associates a lengthened and accentuated oxidative stress together with marked alterations of the muscle membrane excitability. These two objective signs of muscle dysfunction are sufficient to explain muscle pain and postexertional malaise reported by our patients.
Adjusted transfusion triggers improve transfusion practice in orthopaedic surgery
Authors: Eindhoven G. B. , Diercks R. L. , Richardson F. J. , Van Raaij J. J. A. M. , Hagenaars J. A. M. , Van Horn J. R. , De Wolf J. Th. M.
Published: February 2005

Summary.  Although blood transfusion has never been safer, there remains concern about adverse effects. We designed guidelines, the 6‐8‐10‐Flexinorm, based on the conditions which are relevant to the decision to transfuse. To evaluate these new guidelines, we performed a case–control study in patients undergoing elective primary total hip replacement. The study consisted of two parts. In the first part, physicians were strongly encouraged to use the new guidelines; in the second part, only registration took place. During the first and second part of the study, the use of packed red cells (PRC) in Hospital A (study hospital) decreased from 1·1 ± 1·5 to 0·6 ± 1·2 and 0·3 ± 0·9 units, whereas in Hospital B (control), the use of PRC remained unchanged (1 ± 1·5, 1 ± 1·7 and 1 ± 2 units). In the prestudy groups, 43% of the patients in Hospital A were transfused compared to 45% in Hospital B. In the first and second part of the study, 27%, respectively, 14% of the patients in Hospital A were transfused compared to 40% in both periods in Hospital B. The new guidelines lead to a reduction in the use of allogeneic blood and a decrease in the number of patients transfused.
ABO incompatibility due to immunoglobulin G anti‐B antibodies presenting with severe fetal anaemia
Authors: Ziprin J. H. , Payne E. , Hamidi L. , Roberts I. , Regan F.
Published: February 2005

Summary.  ABO incompatibility is a common haematological problem affecting the newborn. The haemolysis is widely accepted to follow a relatively benign course rarely causing the escalating levels of hyperbilirubinaemia and significant anaemia associated with Rh haemolytic disease of the newborn. Case reports of fetal hydrops secondary to ABO incompatibility are particularly rare. We describe two cases, first that of a twin pregnancy with both fetuses developing severe anaemia at 20 weeks gestation, and then a second case of a preterm baby demonstrating aggressive haemolysis and anaemia within hours of delivery. Both mothers were of black Africian origin and both were identified to have elevated titres of IgG anti‐B antibodies.
The effects of ketamine and propofol on bacterial translocation in rats after burn injury
Authors: Yagmurder H. , Akca G. , Aksoy M. , Arslan M. , Baltaci B. , Dikmen B.
Published: February 2005

Background:  Bacterial translocation (BT) occurs after thermal injury and may result from an ischemic intestinal insult. The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of ketamine and propofol as anesthetic agents on BT in an animal model of burn injury.

Methods:  Sixty male Wistar Albino rats were randomly assigned to six groups of 10 rats each. Anesthesia was induced and maintained with ketamine in groups 1, 2 and 3 and with propofol in groups 4, 5 and 6 during 6 h. Groups 2, 3, 5 and 6 received 30% total body surface area (TBSA) third‐degree burns. Groups 1 and 4 had no burn injury. Then, they were allowed to recover from the anesthesia at the end of 6 h. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) was monitored continuously and maintained within 10% of baseline (before burn injury) levels in all animals. Animals in groups 3 and 6 had a laparotomy to obtain a tissue sample from the terminal ileum for determination of intestinal lipid peroxidation by‐product malondialdehyde (MDA) before (baseline) and 6 and 24 h after burn injury (ABI). So these animals were not included in the BT studies. At postburn 24 h, animals in groups 1, 2 and 4, 5 were sacrified and samples were taken from the mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN), liver and spleen for bacteriologic cultures.

Results:  The incidence of BT was found to be significantly higher in group 2 than in all the other groups. Bacterial translocation incidence of group 5 was not significantly different from that of groups 4 and 1. Group 5 was associated with a significantly reduced number of enteric organisms per gram of tissue compared to group 2. Baseline MDA contents of groups 3 and 6 were similar. Ileal MDA levels were increased in group 3, but there were no significant changes in group 6 at 6 and 24 h ABI compared to baseline.

Conclusion:  Our results suggest that propofol as an anesthetic agent may prevent BT by scavenging reactive oxygen species and inhibiting lipid peroxidation in an animal model of burn injury.
Inhaled and intravenous corticosteroids both attenuate chlorine gas‐induced lung injury in pigs
Authors: Wang J. , Winskog C. , Edston E. , Walther S. M.
Published: February 2005

Background:  The accidental release of chlorine gas is a constant threat in urban areas. The purpose of this randomized, blinded, controlled experiment was to examine the effects of post‐injury administration of inhaled or intravenous corticosteroid in chlorine gas‐injured pigs followed for 23 h.

Methods:  Anaesthetized, ventilated pigs (n = 24) in the prone position were exposed to chlorine gas (400 parts per million in air) (1160 mg/m3) for 15 min, then randomly allocated to receive inhaled budesonide (BUD) and intravenous placebo, intravenous betamethasone (BETA) and inhaled placebo or inhaled and intravenous placebo. Haemodynamics, gas exchange and lung mechanics were evaluated for 23 h after exposure to chlorine gas.

Results:  Airway and pulmonary artery pressures increased and arterial oxygenation fell sharply (from 13.5 ± 0.8 to 6.7 ± 0.9 kPa, P < 0.001) after chlorine gas exposure. These immediate changes were followed by a gradual improvement over 5–7 h to a stable level of dysfunction for the rest of the experiment in placebo animals. Arterial oxygen tension, pulmonary vascular resistance and airway pressure recovered faster and more completely in the budesonide and betamethasone groups than in the placebo group (P < 0.01). Lung wet weight to dry weight ratios were greater in the placebo group than in the budesonide and betamethasone groups (6.34 ± 0.59 vs. 5.56 ± 0.38 and 5.53 ± 0.54, respectively, P < 0.05). There was a trend towards lower histological injury scores compared with placebo in animals that received budesonide (P = 0.05) or betamethasone (P = 0.07).

Conclusion:  Treatment of chlorine gas lung injury with nebulized budesonide or intravenous betamethasone had similar positive effects on recovery of lung function.
Plasma concentration of procalcitonin and systemic inflammatory response syndrome after colorectal surgery
Authors: Sarbinowski R. , Arvidsson S. , Tylman M. , Öresland T. , Bengtsson A.
Published: February 2005

Background:  To study whether plasma concentrations of procalcitonin (PCT), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), complement 3a (C3a), C‐reactive protein and white blood cell count (WBC) correlate with the presence of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) during the early post‐operative period after major colorectal surgery.

Methods:  Prospective, observational study during the first 24 h post‐operatively. The setting for the study was the operating theatre and the recovery unit at the university hospital. Fifty consecutive patients, operated on electively with major resection of the large bowel or rectum. PCT levels increased significantly to the maximum level 18 h postoperatively. PCT levels were significantly higher in the SIRS group in comparison to the non‐SIRS group of patients 6 and 12 h after surgery (P < 0.05). The IL‐6 levels were increased directly after the surgery and then decreased gradually in both study groups. Twenty‐four hours after the surgery, C3a levels decreased and then returned to normal levels. Twenty‐four hours post‐operatively, patients with SIRS had a higher plasma concentration of C3a compared with patients without SIRS (P < 0.05). CRP and WBC increased during the study period in both groups (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:  During the early post‐operative period after uncomplicated major abdominal surgery, SIRS was reflected by the increase in plasma PCT and C3a concentrations. IL‐6, CRP and WBC increased to the same extend in both the SIRS and the non‐SIRS group of patients.
Antithrombin III pretreatment reduces neutrophil recruitment into the lung in a rat model of abdominal sepsis
Authors: Koca U. , Olguner Ç. , Özkardeşler S. , Karcı A. , Çoker C. , Tuncel P. , Taşdöĝen A. , Duru S. , Ulukuş Ç. , Elar Z.
Published: February 2005

Background:  Antithrombin III (AT III) is a serine protease inhibitor and the mechanism of its anti‐inflammatory action is still not understood. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the anti‐inflammatory action of AT III on lung injury in a rat model of sepsis.

Methods:  Three groups of animals were used in this controlled study: the sham‐operated group (sham, n = 3) which only underwent a laparotomy; the control group (control, n = 7) which underwent cecal ligation and perforation (CLP); and the AT III‐treated group (AT III, n = 6) which underwent CLP and received intravenous (i.v.) 250 U/kg AT III 30 min before induction of sepsis. Rats were killed 24 h after induction of sepsis by needle aspiration of the right ventricle after a sternotomy, and the lungs and trachea were removed en bloc under ether anesthesia.

Results:  Pulmonary accumulation of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) was assessed by measuring lung tissue myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. Lipid peroxidation in lung tissue was assessed by tissue thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) levels. The plasma prostacyclin level was assessed by the plasma 6‐keto prostaglandin F1α(6‐keto‐PGF1α) level, which is a stable derivative of prostacyclin. Histopathological changes in lung tissue were assessed by PMN count in the capillaries and alveolar spaces. The lung tissue TBARS level, MPO activity and PMN count in the control group were significantly higher than in the AT III group (P < 0.05). The change in plasma 6‐keto‐PGF1α level in the AT III group was insignificant compared with the control group (P = 0.15).

Conclusions:  AT III prevented pulmonary infiltration of PMN and subsequent injury by the endothelial release of prostacyclin in CLP‐induced sepsis.
Continuous lateral popliteal block with stimulating catheters
Authors: Martínez Navas Á. , Vázquez Gutierrez T. , Echevarría Moreno M.
Published: February 2005

Foot surgery often induces severe postoperative pain. Sciatic nerve block is a good alternative for its treatment. We report two cases of continuous lateral popliteal sciatic nerve block using two different stimulating catheters. The lateral approach may offer some advantages. Stimulating catheters may be useful to verify correct catheter tip positioning. This technique seem to be easy to use and provided excellent pain relief.
Requirements of propofol at different end‐points without adjuvant and during two different steady infusions of remifentanil
Authors: Mustola S. T. , Baer G. A. , Neuvonen P. J. , Toivonen K. J.
Published: February 2005

Background:  Some reports show no interaction between propofol and opioids, whereas others state such interactions. We evaluated the influence of remifentanil on propofol requirements at certain anesthesia end‐points.

Methods:  Elective surgical patients were randomly assigned to three groups of 15 patients each. Premedication was with oral diazepam 0.1 mg kg−1. Patients were blindly given equal volumes of saline or remifentanil (7.5 or 30 µg kg−1· h−1) 1 min before induction of anesthesia with infusion of propofol, 30 mg kg−1· h−1. We recorded times to, propofol requirements, and bispectral index at loss of counting (LC), loss of verbal command (LVC), loss of reaction to tetanic stimulation (LRT), and onset of burst suppression pattern (BSP) of electroencephalography.

Results:  In the remifentanil groups end‐points were attained significantly faster and with lower doses of propofol than in the saline group. BIS‐values were significantly different at LRT and BSP end‐points.

Conclusions:  We conclude that remifentanil infusion started before induction of propofol anesthesia significantly reduces propofol requirements at all end‐points. The results suggest that remifentanil accelerates the hypnotic onset of propofol.
Intrathecal edaravone, a free radical scavenger, is effective on inflammatory‐induced pain in rats
Authors: Nishiyama T. , Ogawa M.
Published: February 2005

Background:  Free radicals have some roles in inflammation and systemic and local tissue injuries. (Free radical scavengers are neuroprotective against excitotoxic insults.) Therefore, we hypothesized that free radical scavenger would be analgesic on pain induced by excitotoxicity or inflammation. The purpose of this study was to investigate analgesic effects of intrathecally administered edaravone, a free radical scavenger, on thermal and inflammatory pain.

Methods:  Sprague‐Dawley rats were implanted with lumbar intrathecal catheters. Edaravone 0.05, 0.1, 0.5, and 1 mg per 20 µl or saline 20 µl (control) were administered intrathecally, and the withdrawal response to thermal stimulation to the tail (tail‐flick test) or flinch responses to subcutaneous formalin injection into the hind paw (formalin test) were tested. General behaviour and motor function were also examined. In each dose group, eight rats were used.

Results:  No dose‐dependent analgesic effects were observed in the tail‐flick test. However, dose‐dependent analgesia was obtained in both phase 1 and 2 of the formalin test. The 50% effective dose values were 0.25 mg (95% confidence interval, 0.11–0.56 mg) in phase 1 and 0.25 mg (95% confidence interval, 0.061–1.05 mg) in phase 2. No behavioural side‐effects nor motor dysfunction was observed, even with the maximum soluble dose (1 mg/20 µl).

Conclusion:  Intrathecally administered edaravone, a free radical scavenger, had analgesic effects on inflammatory‐induced acute and facilitated pain but not on acute thermal pain, without any behavioural side‐effects.
Fit and seal characteristics of a new paediatric tracheal tube with high volume–low pressure polyurethane cuff
Authors: Dullenkopf A. , Gerber A. C. , Weiss M.
Published: February 2005

Background:  To evaluate a new paediatric tracheal tube (Microcuff, Weinheim, Germany) with an ultrathin high volume–low pressure polyurethane cuff.

Methods:  With approval of the Hospital Ethics Committee tracheas of children undergoing general anaesthesia were intubated using a Microcuff tube. Tube sizes were selected according to: internal diameter (mm) = age/4 + 3.5 in children aged ≥2 years. In newborns (≥3 kg) ≤1 year, ID 3.0‐mm tubes, and in children from 1 to 2 years, internal diameter 3.5‐mm tubes were used. Tubes were classified too large if no air leakage was obtained at an airway pressure of 20 cm H2O with the cuff not inflated. Sealing pressure was assessed by auscultation. Post‐extubation croup requiring therapy was noted.

Results:  Five‐hundred children were studied. In eight children the tubes were too large. Sealing pressure was 9.7 ± 2.5 cm H2O (4–20). In two patients postextubation croup required singular short‐term therapy.

Conclusions:  Microcuff paediatric tracheal tubes provided tracheal sealing with cuff pressures considerably lower than usually accepted. The rate of tube exchange was very low (1.6%), as was the rate of airway morbidity (croup requiring therapy; 0.4%).
Effects of coagulation factor deficiency on plasma coagulation kinetics determined via thrombelastography®: critical roles of fibrinogen and factors II, VII, X and XII
Authors: Nielsen V. G. , Cohen B. M. , Cohen E.
Published: February 2005

Background:  Thrombelastography (TEG®) is used to assess coagulopathy. However, a comprehensive characterization of the effects of specific coagulation factor deficiencies and mode of activation on TEG® data does not exist.

Methods:  Thrombelastography® was performed for 15 min with control plasma and plasmas deficient (<1% activity) in Factors II, V, VII, VIII, IX, X, XI, XII, or XIII activated with celite (0.28 mg ml−1) or tissue factor (TF, 0.1%) (n = 6 per condition). Additional fibrinogen concentration activity (75–345 mg dl−1) and Factor II, VII, X and XII activity‐response relationships (1%, 6.25%, 12.5%, 25%, 50% and 100% activity) were obtained (n = 8 per condition). Thrombelastography® parameters included reaction time (R), angle (α), and clot strength (A, amplitude; G, elastic modulus).

Results:  Celite activation of FXII‐deficient plasma, TF activation of FVII‐deficient and FX‐deficient plasma, and celite or TF activation of FII‐deficient plasma resulted in an almost undetectable clot. Compared to control values, celite activation of plasmas deficient in FXI, FIX and FVIII resulted in prolonged R and decreased α values, whereas TF activation resulted in decreased α values. Celite and TF activation of FV‐deficient plasma resulted in prolonged R and decreased α values, whereas FXIII‐deficient plasma had decreased α, A and G‐values compared to control values.

Conclusions:  The fundamental finding of this study is that coagulation factor deficiencies affect TEG® parameters in both a factor‐dependent and activation‐dependent fashion. Utilizing both celite and TF activation improves the diagnostic power of TEG®. Based on such TEG® data, more targeted administration of blood products could potentially help improve perioperative hemostatic outcomes.
An unusual cause of difficult intubation in a patient with a large cervical anterior osteophyte: a case report
Authors: Cesur M. , Alici H. A. , Erdem A. F.
Published: February 2005

This report describes a case in which a large anterior osteophyte on the C2 and C3 vertebrae, due to ankylosing spondylitis, resulted in distortion of the anatomy of the upper airway and difficult intubation. Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a progressive inflammatory disease, characterized by stiffening of the joints and ligaments. Stiffness of the cervical spine, atlanto‐occipital, temporomandibular and cricoarytenoid joints may cause difficult intubation (1). This report describes a case in which a large anterior osteophyte on the C2 and C3 vertebrae, associated with AS, resulted in distortion of the anatomy of the upper airway and difficult intubation.
Sperm competition and male ejaculate investment in Nauphoeta cinerea: effects of social environment during development
Authors: Harris W. E. , Moore P. J.
Published: February 2005

Selective pressure arising from sperm competition has been predicted to influence evolutionary and behavioural adjustment of ejaculate investment, but also may influence developmental adjustment of ejaculate investment. Immature males able to target resources strategically based on the competitive environment they will experience when they become sexually mature should be at a selective advantage. In our study we investigated how the presence of potential competitors or mates affects ejaculate and testes investment during development in the cockroach Nauphoeta cinerea, a species where males control female remating via their ejaculate size (large spermatophores prevent females from remating and therefore function to avoid sperm competition for males) and females store sperm. Our aim was to determine whether the social environment influences developmental adjustment of ejaculate investment and the relative importance of ejaculate components with different functions; avoidance of or engagement in sperm competition. We conclude that the social environment can influence developmental and behavioural flexibility in specific ejaculate components that may function to avoid or engage in sperm competition.
A comparative analysis of predator‐induced plasticity in larvalTriturusnewts
Authors: Schmidt B. R. , Van Buskirk J.
Published: February 2005

Species that occupy similar habitats are expected to show convergent phenotypes. If habitats are defined by the presence of predators, then traits that modify vulnerability to predation, including predator‐induced phenotypic plasticity, should be similar within habitats. We tested this idea using larvae of six syntopic newt species belonging to the twoTriturusclades. Behavioural plasticity induced by odonate predators was strongly dissimilar between the two main clades but similar within them. Morphological plasticity was variable among species, even between one pair of closely related species. A predation experiment tested whether differences between clades could be caused by differences in body size. Size‐specific vulnerability differed between newts in the small‐bodied and large‐bodied clades, indicating that similar predators may affect the two clades differently. The results showed both similarity and dissimilarity in predator‐induced phenotypic plasticity in syntopic larval newts although theory suggests that divergence is unlikely in such ecologically similar species.
The influence of territoriality and mating system on the evolution of male care: a phylogenetic study on fish
Authors: Ah‐King M. , Kvarnemo C. , Tullberg B. S.
Published: February 2005

Evolution of male care is still poorly understood. Using phylogenetically matched‐pairs comparisons we tested for effects of territoriality and mating system on male care evolution in fish. All origins of male care were found in pair‐spawning species (with or without additional males such as sneakers) and none were found in group‐spawning species. However, excluding group spawners, male care originated equally often in pair‐spawning species with additional males as in strict pair‐spawning species. Evolution of male care was also significantly related to territoriality. Yet, most pair‐spawning taxa with male care are also territorial, making their relative influence difficult to separate. Furthermore, territoriality also occurs in group‐spawning species. Hence, territoriality is not sufficient for male care to evolve. Rather, we argue that it is the combination of territoriality and pair spawning with sequential polygyny that favours the evolution of male care, and we discuss our results in relation to paternity assurance and sexual selection.
Light quantity and quality induce shade‐avoiding plasticity in a marine macroalga
Authors: Monro K. , Poore A. G. B.
Published: February 2005

Light‐induced plasticity in plant morphology is considered adaptive in terrestrial habitats that vary in light, but remains unexplored for marine habitats. This is despite similar modes of growth, development and photosynthetic equipment in terrestrial and marine photoautotrophs and similarly dynamic light environments. We tested whether manipulations of light quantity and quality induce morphological plasticity in the marine macroalga, Asparagopsis armata. Using multivariate analyses (principal components analyses and multivariate analyses of covariance), we show that correlated morphological traits underlie a fundamental growth strategy characterized by the production of phalanx and guerrilla phenotypes in environments that mimic light and shade respectively. This foraging response is not under simple genetic or environmental control, but influenced by interactions between genotype and environment. Evidence of plasticity and genetic variation in plasticity in a marine modular organism generates additional, testable hypotheses on the ecological consequences of variation in growth form that may further explain the evolution of plasticity.