bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parental Psychiatric Disorders Associated With Autism Spectrum Disorders in the Offspring
Authors: Daniels Julie L. , Forssen Ulla , Hultman Christina M. , Cnattingius Sven , Savitz David A. , Feychting Maria , Sparen Par
Published: May 2008

OBJECTIVE. Autism is a developmental disorder defined by impaired social interaction, communication, and behavior. Causes and correlates of autism are largely unknown, but elevated frequencies of psychiatric disorders and distinct personality traits have been reported among the family members of individuals with autism. Linkage of data from Swedish registries was used to investigate whether hospitalization for psychiatric conditions was higher among parents of children with autism compared with control subjects.

METHODS. Data sources included the Swedish Medical Birth Register (child's birth), the Swedish Multi-Generation Register (linking parents to children), and Swedish Hospital Discharge Register (hospitalization records). Children born between 1977 and 2003 who had a hospitalization record indicating autism before 10 years of age (n = 1227) were matched with 30 693 control subjects from the Swedish Medical Birth Register by gender, year of birth, and hospital. Parent diagnoses were based on an inpatient hospital diagnostic evaluation and included schizophrenia, other nonaffective psychoses, affective disorders, neurotic and personality disorders and other nonpsychotic disorders, alcohol and drug addiction and abuse, and autism. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were estimated by using conditional logistic regression, adjusted for child's age, gender, hospital of birth, parents’ age, country of birth and socioeconomic status, and diagnosis of a mental disorder in the other parent.

RESULTS. Parents of children with autism were more likely to have been hospitalized for a mental disorder than parents of control subjects. Schizophrenia was more common among case mothers and fathers compared with respective control parents. Depression and personality disorders were more common among case mothers but not fathers.

CONCLUSIONS. This large population study supports the potential for familial aggregation of psychiatric conditions that may provide leads for future investigations of heritable forms of autism.
Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes Risk in Midadult Life: The Role of Childhood Adversity
Authors: Thomas Claudia , Hyppönen Elina , Power Chris
Published: May 2008

OBJECTIVE. Child abuse has been associated with poorer physical health in adulthood, but less is known about childhood adversity more broadly, including neglect and family problems, or the pathways from adversity to adult disease. We have examined how different stressful emotional or neglectful childhood adversities are related to adiposity and glucose control in midadulthood, taking into account childhood factors, and whether the relationships are mediated by adult health behaviors and socioeconomic position.

METHODS. This was a prospective longitudinal study of 9310 members of the 1958 British birth cohort who participated in a biomedical interview at 45 years of age. Primary outcomes consisted of continuous measures of BMI, waist circumference, and glycosylated hemoglobin at 45 years and categorical indicators: total obesity (BMI ≥ 30), central obesity (waist circumference: ≥102 cm for men and ≥88 cm for women), and glycosylated hemoglobin level of ≥6.

RESULTS. The risk of obesity increased by 20% to 50% for several adversities (physical abuse, verbal abuse, witnessed abuse, humiliation, neglect, strict upbringing, physical punishment, conflict or tension, low parental aspirations or interest in education, hardly takes outings with parents, and father hardly reads to child). Adversities with the strongest associations with adiposity (eg, physical abuse) tended to be associated with glycosylated hemoglobin levels of ≥6, but in most cases associations were explained by adjustment for adulthood mediators such as adiposity. Effects of other adversities reflecting less severe emotional neglect and family environment were largely explained by childhood socioeconomic factors.

CONCLUSIONS. Some childhood adversities increase the risk of obesity in adulthood and thereby increase the risk for type 2 diabetes. Research is needed to understand the interrelatedness of adversities, the social context of their occurrence, and trajectories from adversity to adult disease.
Plasmacytic skin infiltration in multiple myeloma
Authors: Molnár Katalin , Karádi István , Sugár István , Sápi Zoltán , Marschalkó Márta , Pálinger Éva , Darvas Zsuzsanna , Pócza Péter , Falus András , Vereczkei András , Várkonyi Judit
Published: May 2008

A szerzők egy terápiarezisztens myeloma multiplexes beteg esetét ismertetik, akinél plazmasejtes bőrinfiltráció jelentkezett a kórlefolyás során.
Célkitűzés:
A bőrinvázióban szereplő plazmasejteket a csontvelőben maradt plazmasejtektől megkülönböztető olyan jellemző keresése, amely hozzájárulhat a bőrinvázió jelenségének alaposabb megismeréséhez.
Módszer:
A sejtproliferációban szerepet játszó hisztamin előállítására kizárólag a hisztidin-dekarboxiláz enzim képes. Az enzim meghatározására bőr- és csontvelőmintákban immunhisztokémiai módszert alkalmaztunk, és a csontvelőáramlás citometriai vizsgálata is megtörtént.
Eredmények:
A bőrinfiltrációban részt vevő plazmasejtek hisztidin-dekarboxilázenzim-expressziója eltűnt, míg a csontvelőben lévő sejtek hisztidin-dekarboxiláz-pozitívak maradnak.
Következtetések:
A szerzők szerint a bőrinfiltrációban részt vevő sejtek hisztidin-dekarboxiláz-expressziójának eltűnése a sejtek dedifferenciálódásának egyik jele, ugyanakkor a hisztamin-anyagcserében bekövetkező változások eredője. Az extramedullaris myelomasejtek biológiailag eltérnek a csontvelőben maradottaktól, ezért feltehetően az egyazon terápiára adott válaszuk is különböző lehet.
Influence of Reduced Feed Ration on Lepeophtheirus salmonis Infestation and Inflammatory Gene Expression in Juvenile Pink Salmon
Authors: Jones Simon R. M. , Fast Mark D. , Johnson Stewart C.
Published: May 2008

The effect of reduced feed ration on infestation levels with the sea louse Lepeophtheirus salmonis and gene expression in juvenile pink salmon Oncorhynchus gorbuscha was tested in three laboratory trials. Body weight was significantly lower among fish on the reduced ration for 27, 34, or 65 d than fish on the full ration. Neither the prevalence nor the abundance of L. salmonis differed between fish on full and reduced rations at any time in any trial. In trial 2, sea louse rejection was delayed among fish on reduced rations; however, the parasite was ultimately rejected from all fish in this trial regardless of ration. Proinflammatory gene expression in salmon exposed to L. salmonis was modulated by reduced rations. There was a reduction in the expression of interleukin-8 in pink salmon on reduced rations 7 d after exposure but not 14 d after exposure. In contrast, the 7-d expression of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) was reduced in exposed pink salmon regardless of ration. By day 14, however, expression of IL-1β was increased in association with reduced rations among exposed salmon. Similarly, the expression of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) was increased 14 d after exposure among salmon on a reduced ration. There was no evidence that short-duration exposure of otherwise healthy juvenile pink salmon to a reduced ration affected susceptibility to L. salmonis. The expression data do not suggest an obvious mechanism of louse rejection; rather, they indicate that a more comprehensive suite of inflammatory pathways should be surveyed to better understand the early pink salmon response to L. salmonis.
The Value of Applying Commercial Fishers' Experience to Designed Surveys for Identifying Characteristics of Essential Fish Habitat for Adult Summer Flounder
Authors: Slacum H. Ward , Vølstad Jon H. , Weber Edward D. , Richkus William A. , Diaz Robert J. , Tallent Christina O.
Published: May 2008

Identifying the habitat requirements of marine fish is necessary to conserve and manage their populations, but these requirements are poorly understood for many species. One method of screening for important habitat characteristics is to identify differences in habitat features between areas of high and low fish abundance. We tested the association between abundance of adult summer flounder Paralichthys dentatus and benthic habitat features at two study areas in the Middle Atlantic Bight in summer 2004. The study included trawl and remote-sensing surveys that were designed and conducted with the assistance of commercial fishers. Within each area, a local commercial fisher designated specific locations a priori as productive or unproductive for fishing. Summer flounder abundance, as measured by mean catch per area swept, was significantly greater at sites designated as productive than at sites designated as unproductive (6.5 times greater in Maryland and 4.7 times greater in Rhode Island). These results indicate that summer flounder were attracted consistently to localized habitats that must have had different characteristics than other nearby locations. Habitat variables associated with the substrate (e.g., particle size, bottom shape, and presence of sessile organisms) were measured along trawl paths using underwater video imagery. The measured variables did not explain abundance well, suggesting that microscale characteristics of the substrate did not affect summer flounder distribution. Summer flounder were most abundant at depths of 10–20 m; however, both high and low catch rates occurred in this depth range, indicating that other factors also were important. These results suggest that additional localized variables merit further investigation to determine their importance to summer flounder. This study demonstrates the importance of combining fishers' knowledge and experience with planned surveys to identify essential habitat features for fish.
IFATS Collection: Identification of Hemangioblasts in the Adult Human Adipose Tissue
Authors: Miñana María-Dolores , Carbonell-Uberos Francisco , Mirabet Vicente , Marín Severiano , Encabo Araceli
Published: May 2008

The stromal-vascular fraction (SVF) of human adipose tissue contains, among other cell types, mesenchymal stem cells and precursors of adipocyte and endothelial cells. Here we show that, in addition, the nonhematopoietic fraction of the SVF has hematopoietic activity, since all types of hematopoietic colony-forming units (CFUs) developed when cultured in methylcellulose-based medium. This hematopoietic activity was restricted to the CD45−CD105+ cell subset, well correlated with KDR+ cell content, and increased after culture with a combination of early-acting hematopoietic cytokines. Most of the CD45−KDR+CD105+ cells were nonadherent and did not express CD31, and this subset included both CD34− and CD34+ cells. Moreover, these nonadherent cells migrated in response to KDR gradient, and when they were cultured in the presence of both hematopoietic and endothelial growth factors, a wave of CFUs was followed by a wave of mixed colonies comprising adherent elongated and nonadherent round hematopoietic cells. These mixed hematopoietic-endothelial (Hem-End) colonies were able to generate secondary Hem-End colonies and exhibited both hematopoietic and endothelial activity, as demonstrated by in vitro functional assays. These findings demonstrate for the first time the existence of primitive mesodermal progenitors within the SVF of human adipose tissue that exhibit in vitro hematopoietic and hemangioblastic activities, susceptible to being used in cell therapy and basic cell research.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Molecular Mechanism of Systemic Delivery of Neural Precursor Cells to the Brain: Assembly of Brain Endothelial Apical Cups and Control of Transmigration by CD44
Authors: Rampon Christine , Weiss Nicolas , Deboux Cyrille , Chaverot Nathalie , Miller Florence , Buchet Delphine , Tricoire-Leignel Hélène , Cazaubon Sylvie , Baron-Van Evercooren Anne , Couraud Pierre-Olivier
Published: May 2008

Systemically injected neural precursor cells (NPCs) were unexpectedly shown to reach the cerebral parenchyma and induce recovery in various diffuse brain pathologies, including animal models of multiple sclerosis. However, the molecular mechanisms supporting NPC migration across brain endothelium remain elusive. Brain endothelium constitutes the blood-brain barrier, which uniquely controls the access of drugs and trafficking of cells, including leukocytes, from the blood to the brain. Taking advantage of the availability of in vitro models of human and rat blood-brain barrier developed in our laboratory and validated by us and others, we show here that soluble hyaluronic acid, the major ligand of the adhesion molecule CD44, as well as anti-CD44 blocking antibodies, largely prevents NPC adhesion to and migration across brain endothelium in inflammatory conditions. We present further evidence that NPCs, surprisingly, induce the formation of apical cups at the surface of brain endothelial cells, enriched in CD44 and other adhesion molecules, thus hijacking the endothelial signaling recently shown to be involved in leukocyte extravasation. These results demonstrate the pivotal role of CD44 in the trans-endothelial migration of NPCs across brain endothelial cells: we propose that they may help design new strategies for the delivery of therapeutic NPCs to the brain by systemic administration.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Partial‐Thickness Cortical Bone Graft From the Mandibular Ramus: A Non‐Invasive Harvesting Technique
Authors: Hwang Kyung‐Gyun , Shim Kwang‐Sup , Yang Seung‐Min , Park Chang‐Joo
Published: May 2008

Background: The conventional method of harvesting full cortical bone from the mandibular ramus was reported to have associated complications ranging from postoperative pain and swelling to impaired inferior alveolar nerve function.

Methods: A modified ramal bone harvesting technique is described in which partial cortical‐type bone is harvested from the mandibular ramus and used for an autogenous bone graft.

Results: Partial‐thickness cortical bone was harvested without paresthesia while reducing postoperative discomfort and complications. Sufficient bone was obtained for ridge augmentation and eventual implant placement.

Conclusion: Non‐invasive partial cortical ramal bone harvesting is a reproducible and predictable technique for preventing nerve damage while providing sufficient block bone needed for a dental implant.
Primary and Secondary Oil Recovery From Different-Wettability Rocks by Countercurrent Diffusion and Spontaneous Imbibition
Authors: Hatiboglu C. U. , Babadagli T.
Published: May 2008

This study investigates optimum matrix-oil-recovery strategies in naturally fractured reservoirs (NFRs) for different wettabilities and rock types. We compare the recovery efficiencies of two cases: (a) primary countercurrent spontaneous imbibition followed by the diffusion of a miscible phase (secondary recovery) and (b) primary diffusion of miscible fluid without preflush of matrix by spontaneous imbibition. For these recovery strategies, the effects of the matrix shape factor, matrix wettability, and type of miscible displacing phase on the rate of recovery and development of residual-oil saturation were clarified experimentally.

Cylindrical Berea-sandstone and Indiana-limestone samples with different shape factors were obtained by cutting the plugs 1, 2.5, and 5 cm in diameter and 2.5, 5, and 10 cm in length. The external surface except one end was coated with epoxy. Static imbibition experiments were conducted on vertically situated samples in which the fractures were at the bottom and matrix/fracture interaction took place in an upward direction. Mineral oil and crude oil were used as oleic phases. Brine was selected as aqueous phase for the primary spontaneous-imbibition recovery. For primary- and secondary-miscible-displacement experiments, n-heptane was used as solvent. Wettability of water-wet Berea-sandstone samples was altered by aging to observe its effects on the dynamics of spontaneous countercurrent imbibition and diffusion.

Parametric analyses were performed for the appraisal of the secondary-and tertiary-recovery potential of NFRs by immiscible-and miscible-fluid injections. The optimal recovery strategies (recovery rate, recovery time, and ultimate recovery) for different rock properties were identified and classified. In water-wet cases, starting the recovery with capillary imbibition followed by diffusion was found to be the optimal way (i.e., both effective and efficient). For limestone or aged-sandstone samples, starting the recovery by diffusion yielded a faster recovery rate and higher ultimate recovery.
Seasonal Variation of Leaf Dust Accumulation and Pigment Content in Plant Species Exposed to Urban Particulates Pollution
Authors: Prajapati Santosh Kumar , Tripathi B. D.
Published: May 2008

To assess the dust interception efficiency of some selected tree species and impact of dust deposition on chlorophyll and ascorbic acid content of leaves the present study was undertaken. The plant species selected for the study were Ficus religiosa, Ficus benghalensis, Mangifera indica, Dalbergia sissoo, Psidium guajava, and Dendrocalamus strictus It was found that all species have maximum dust deposition in the winter season followed by summer and rainy seasons. Chlorophyll content decreased and ascorbic acid content increased with the increase of dust deposition. There was significant negative and positive correlation between dust deposition and chlorophyll and ascorbic acid content, respectively. Maximum dust interception was done by Dalbergia sisso and least by Dendrocalamus strictus Thus plants can be used to intercept dust particles which are of potential health hazards to humans.
Whole‐Stream Response to Nitrate Loading in Three Streams Draining Agricultural Landscapes
Authors: Duff John H. , Tesoriero Anthony J. , Richardson William B. , Strauss Eric A. , Munn Mark D.
Published: May 2008

Physical, chemical, hydrologic, and biologic factors affecting nitrate (NO3−) removal were evaluated in three agricultural streams draining orchard/dairy and row crop settings. Using 3‐d “snapshots” during biotically active periods, we estimated reach‐level NO3− sources, NO3− mass balance, in‐stream processing (nitrification, denitrification, and NO3− uptake), and NO3− retention potential associated with surface water transport and ground water discharge. Ground water contributed 5 to 11% to stream discharge along the study reaches and 8 to 42% of gross NO3− input. Streambed processes potentially reduced 45 to 75% of ground water NO3− before discharge to surface water. In all streams, transient storage was of little importance for surface water NO3− retention. Estimated nitrification (1.6–4.4 mg N m−2 h−1) and unamended denitrification rates (2.0–16.3 mg N m−2 h−1) in sediment slurries were high relative to pristine streams. Denitrification of NO3− was largely independent of nitrification because both stream and ground water were sources of NO3− Unamended denitrification rates extrapolated to the reach‐scale accounted for <5% of NO3− exported from the reaches minimally reducing downstream loads. Nitrate retention as a percentage of gross NO3− inputs was >30% in an organic‐poor, autotrophic stream with the lowest denitrification potentials and highest benthic chlorophyll a, photosynthesis/respiration ratio, pH, dissolved oxygen, and diurnal NO3− variation. Biotic processing potentially removed 75% of ground water NO3− at this site, suggesting an important role for photosynthetic assimilation of ground water NO3− relative to subsurface denitrification as water passed directly through benthic diatom beds.
Trapping Efficiencies of Cultivated and Natural Riparian Vegetation of Northern Laos
Authors: Vigiak Olga , Ribolzi Olivier , Pierret Alain , Sengtaheuanghoung Oloth , Valentin Christian
Published: May 2008

In northern Laos, intensification of cultivation on sloping land leads to accelerated erosion processes. Management of riparian land may counteract the negative impacts of higher sediment delivery rates on water quality. This study assessed water and sediment concentration trapping efficiencies of riparian vegetation in northern Laos and the effect of cultivation of riparian land on water quality. Runoff flowing in and out of selected riparian sites was monitored by means of open troughs. In 2005, two native grass, two bamboo, and two banana sites were monitored. In 2006, adjacent to steep banana, bamboo, and native grass sites, three upland rice sites were established and monitored. Water trapping efficiency (WTE) and sediment concentration trapping efficiency (SCTE) were calculated on an event basis; means and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated with a bootstrapping approach. Confidence intervals were large and overlapping among sites. Seepage conditions severely limited trapping efficiency. Native grass resulted in the highest WTE (95% CI, −0.10 to 0.23), which was not significantly different from zero. Banana resulted in the highest SCTE (95% CI, 0.06–0.40). Bamboo had negative WTE and SCTE. Median outflow runoff from rice sites was nine times the inflow. Median outflow sediment concentration from rice sites was two to five times that of their adjacent sites and two to five times the inflow sediment concentration. Although low‐tillage banana plantation may reduce sediment concentration of runoff, cultivation of annual crops in riparian land leads to delivery of turbid runoff into the stream, thus severely affecting stream water quality.
Survival Potential of Escherichia coli and Enterococci in Subtropical Beach Sand: Implications for Water Quality Managers
Authors: Hartz A. , Cuvelier M. , Nowosielski K. , Bonilla T. D. , Green M. , Esiobu N. , McCorquodale D.S. , Rogerson A.
Published: May 2008

Fecal bacteria have traditionally been used as indicator organisms to monitor the quality of recreational waters. Recent work has questioned the robustness of traditional indicators, particularly at seawater bathing beaches. For example, a study of Florida beaches found unexpectedly high abundances of Escherichia coli, fecal coliforms, and enterococci in beach sand. The aim of the present study was to explain these abundances by assessing the survival of E. coli and enterococci in beach sand relative to seawater. We used a combination of quantitative laboratory mesocosm experiments and field observations. Results suggested that E. coli and enteroccocci exhibited increased survivability and growth in sand relative to seawater. Because fecal bacteria are capable of replicating in sand, at least under controlled laboratory conditions, the results suggest that sand may be an important reservoir of metabolically active fecal organisms. Experiments with “natural” mesocosms (i.e., unsterilized sand or water rich in micropredators and native bacteria) failed to show the same increases in fecal indicators as was found in sterile sand. It is postulated that this was due to predation and competition with indigenous bacteria in these “natural” systems. Nonetheless, high populations of indicators were maintained and recovered from sand over the duration of the experiment as opposed to the die‐off noted in water. Indicator bacteria may wash out of sand into shoreline waters during weather and tidal events, thereby decreasing the effectiveness of these indicators as predictors of health risk and complicating the interpretations for water quality managers.
Zinc Fractionation in Contaminated Soils by Sequential and Single Extractions: Influence of Soil Properties and Zinc Content
Authors: Voegelin Andreas , Tokpa Gerome , Jacquat Olivier , Barmettler Kurt , Kretzschmar Ruben
Published: May 2008

We studied the fractionation of zinc (Zn) in 49 contaminated soils as influenced by Zn content and soil properties using a seven‐step sequential extraction procedure (F1: NH4NO3; F2: NH4–acetate, pH 6; F3: NH3OHCl, pH 6; F4: NH4–EDTA, pH 4.6; F5: NH4–oxalate, pH 3; F6: NH4–oxalate/ascorbic acid, pH 3; F7: residual). The soils had developed from different geologic materials and covered a wide range in soil pH (4.0–7.3), organic C content (9.3–102 g kg−1), and clay content (38–451 g kg−1). Input of aqueous Zn with runoff water from electricity towers during 26 to 74 yr resulted in total soil Zn contents of 3.8 to 460 mmol kg−1 In acidic soils (n = 24; pH <6.0), Zn was mainly found in the mobile fraction (F1) and the last two fractions (F6 and F7). In neutral soils (n = 25; pH ≥6.0), most Zn was extracted in the mobilizable fraction (F2) and the intermediate fractions (F4 and F5). The extractability of Zn increased with increasing Zn contamination of the soils. The sum of mobile (F1) and mobilizable (F2) Zn was independent of soil pH, the ratio of Zn in F1 over F1+F2 plotted against soil pH, exhibited the typical shape of a pH sorption edge and markedly increased from pH 6 to pH 5, reflecting the increasing lability of mobilizable Zn with decreasing soil pH. In conclusion, the extractability of Zn from soils contaminated with aqueous Zn after decades of aging under field conditions systematically varied with soil pH and Zn content. The same trends are expected to apply to aqueous Zn released from decomposing Zn‐bearing contaminants, such as sewage sludge or smelter slag. The systematic trends in Zn fractionation with varying soil pH and Zn content indicate the paramount effect of these two factors on molecular scale Zn speciation. Further research is required to characterize the link between the fractionation and speciation of Zn and to determine how Zn loading and soil physicochemical properties affect Zn speciation in soils.
Nitrogen and Phosphorus Removal from Domestic Strength Synthetic Wastewater Using an Alternating Pumped Flow Sequencing Batch Biofilm Reactor
Authors: Rodgers Michael , Wu Guangxue , Zhan Xinmin
Published: May 2008

Nutrient removal from domestic strength synthetic wastewater by an alternating pumped flow sequencing batch biofilm reactor (APFSBBR) was investigated in this laboratory study. The APFSBBR comprised two reactor tanks (Reactors 1 and 2) with two identical biofilm modules of vertical tubular plastic media with a high specific surface area, one in each tank. The APFSBBR was operated in cycles of four phases: fill, anaerobic, aerobic, and draw. During the fill phase, Reactor 1 was half‐filled with domestic strength synthetic wastewater. During the subsequent anaerobic phase, most of the phosphorus release took place from the submerged biofilm in this reactor. In the aerobic phase, the wastewater was circulated by pumps between Reactors 1 and 2, resulting in denitrification at the start of the aerobic phase due to low oxygen concentrations, followed by nitrification and luxury uptake of phosphorus when oxygen concentrations increased. During the draw phase, Reactor 2 was half‐emptied of the treated water. At the chemical oxygen demand (COD), total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorus (TP) loading rates on the total biofilm area of 3.20 g COD, 0.33 g TN, and 0.06 g TP m−2 d−1, the removal efficiencies were 97, 85, and 92% for COD, TN, and TP, respectively.
Fertilizer Residence Time Affects Nitrogen Uptake Efficiency and Growth of Sweet Corn
Authors: Zotarelli L. , Scholberg J. M. , Dukes M. D. , Muñoz‐Carpena R.
Published: May 2008

Understanding plant N uptake dynamics is critical for increasing fertilizer N uptake efficiency (FUE) and minimize the risk of N leaching. The objective of this research was to determine the effect of residence time of N fertilizer on N uptake and FUE of sweet corn. Plants were grown in 25 L columns during the fall and spring to mimic short‐term N uptake dynamics. Nitrogen was applied either 1, 3, or 7 d before a weekly leaching event, using KNO3 solution (total of 393 kg N ha−1). Residence times (tR) were tR–1, tR–3, and tR–7 d before weekly removal of residual soil N. Plant N uptake was calculated by comparing weekly N recovery from planted with non‐planted columns. During the fall, N uptake values at 70 d after emergence were 59, 73, and 126 kg N ha−1 During the spring, corresponding values were 54, 108, and 159 kg N ha−1 A linear response of plant growth and yield to the tR was observed under cooler conditions, whereas a quadratic response occurred under warmer conditions. There was correlation between root length density and yield. It is concluded that increasing N fertilizer residence time, which is indicative of better irrigation practices, enhanced overall sweet corn growth, yield, N uptake, and FUE, consequently reduced the risk of N being leached below the root zone before complete N uptake.
Effect of dietary nutrients on osteochondrosis lesions and cartilage properties in pigs
Authors: Frantz Nolan Z. , Andrews Gordan A. , Tokach Michael D. , Nelssen Jim L. , Goodband Robert D. , DeRouchey Joel M. , Dritz Steve S.
Published: May 2008

Objective—To evaluate dietary ingredients involved in cartilage and bone metabolism and their influence on osteochondrosis lesions in swine.

Animals—80 crossbred gilts (mean initial weight, 39 kg).

Procedures—Pigs (10 pigs/treatment) were fed a corn–soybean meal basal (control) diet or the basal diet supplemented with additional minerals (copper and manganese or silicon), amino acids (proline and glycine; a combination of leucine, isoleucine, and valine; or methionine and threonine), or fatty acids (provided by fish oil) for 84 days. Pigs were then slaughtered and the distal portion of the left femur was collected for determination of osteochondrosis lesions at the femoral condyle. After evaluation of external joint surfaces, the distal portion of the femur was sectioned to evaluate lesions in the growth plate and articular cartilage. Additionally, a cartilage specimen was obtained from the patella for analysis.

Results—Pigs fed diets containing high amounts of methionine and threonine or the diet containing all additional ingredients had significantly lower total severity scores, compared with scores for pigs fed the control diet or a diet supplemented with fish oil. Pigs fed diets containing additional proline and glycine, copper and manganese, methionine and threonine, or all additional ingredients had significantly lower overall scores, compared with scores for pigs fed the control diet or a diet supplemented with fish oil.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Dietary manipulation decreased the severity of osteochondrosis lesions, compared with results for pigs fed a control diet. However, additional research on optimal concentrations and combinations of dietary components is needed.
Effects of temperature and handling conditions on lipid emulsion stability in veterinary parenteral nutrition admixtures during simulated intravenous administration
Authors: Thomovsky Elizabeth J. , Backus Robert C. , Mann F. A. , Richmond Cynthia K. , Wagner-Mann Colette C.
Published: May 2008

Objective—To determine whether lipid particle coalescence develops in veterinary parenteral nutrition (PN) admixture preparations that are kept at room temperature (23°C) for > 48 hours and whether that coalescence is prevented by admixture filtration, refrigeration, or agitation.

Sample Population—15 bags of veterinary PN solutions.

Procedures—Bags of a PN admixture preparation containing a lipid emulsion were suspended and maintained under different experimental conditions (3 bags/group) for 96 hours while admixtures were dispensed to simulate IV fluid administration (rate, 16 mL/h). Bags were kept static at 4°C (refrigeration); kept at 23°C (room temperature) and continuously agitated; kept at room temperature and agitated for 5 minutes every 4 hours; kept static at room temperature and filtered during delivery; or kept static at room temperature (control conditions). Admixture samples were collected at 0, 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours and examined via transmission electron microscopy to determine lipid particle diameters. At 96 hours, 2 samples were collected at a location distal to the filter from each bag in that group for bacterial culture.

Results—Distribution of lipid particle size in the control preparations and experimentally treated preparations did not differ significantly. A visible oil layer developed in continuously agitated preparations by 72 hours. Bacterial cultures of filtered samples yielded no growth.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Data indicated that the veterinary PN admixtures kept static at 23°C are suitable for use for at least 48 hours. Manipulations of PN admixtures appear unnecessary to prolong lipid particle stability, and continuous agitation may hasten lipid breakdown.
Collection and analysis of peritoneal fluid from healthy llamas and alpacas
Authors: Cebra Christopher K. , Tornquist Susan J. , Reed Shannon K.
Published: May 2008

Objective—To describe a technique for abdominocentesis in camelids and report peritoneal fluid biochemical and cytologic findings from healthy llamas and alpacas.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—17 adult llamas and 5 adult alpacas.

Procedures—Right paracostal abdominocentesis was performed. Peritoneal fluid was collected by gravity flow into tubes containing potassium-EDTA for cell count and cytologic evaluation and lithium heparin for biochemical analysis. Blood samples were collected via jugular venipuncture into heparinized tubes at the same time. Cytologic components were quantified. Fluid pH and concentrations of total carbon dioxide, sodium, potassium, chloride, lactate, and glucose were compared between peritoneal fluid and venous blood.

Results—All but 3 camelids had peritoneal fluid cell counts of < 3,000 nucleated cells/μL, with < 2,000 neutrophils/μL and < 1,040 large mononuclear cells/μL. All but 1 had peritoneal fluid protein concentrations of ≥ 2.5 g/dL. Peritoneal fluid of camelids generally contained slightly less glucose, lactate, and sodium and roughly equal concentrations of potassium and chloride as venous blood.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Peritoneal fluid was collected safely from healthy camelids. Compared with blood, peritoneal fluid usually had a low cell count and protein concentration, but some individuals had higher values. Electrolyte concentrations resembled those found in blood. High cell counts and protein concentrations found in peritoneal fluid of some healthy camelids may overlap with values found in diseased camelids, complicating interpretation of peritoneal fluid values.
Relativistic perihelion precession of orbits of Venus and the Earth
Authors: Biswas Abhijit , Mani Krishnan
Published: May 2008

Among all the theories proposed to explain the “anomalous” perihelion precession of Mercury’s orbit first announced in 1859 by Le Verrier, the general theory of relativity proposed by Einstein in November 1915 alone could calculate Mercury’s “anomalous” precession with the precision demanded by observational accuracy. Since Mercury’s precession was a directly derived result of the full general theory, it was viewed by Einstein as the most critical test of general relativity from amongst the three tests he proposed. With the advent of the space age, the level of observational accuracy has improved further and it is now possible to detect this precession for other planetary orbits of the solar system — viz., Venus and the Earth. This conclusively proved that the phenomenon of “anomalous” perihelion precession of planetary orbits is a relativistic effect. Our previous papers presented the mathematical model and the computed value of the relativistic perihelion precession of Mercury’s orbit using an alternate relativistic gravitational model, which is a remodeled form of Einstein’s relativity theories, and which retained only experimentally proven principles. In addition this model has the benefit of data from almost a century of relativity experimentation, including those that have become possible with the advent of the space age. Using this model, we present in this paper the computed values of the relativistic precession of Venus and the Earth, which compare well with the predictions of general relativity and are also in agreement with the observed values within the range of uncertainty.
Three-dimensional dissipative optical solitons
Authors: Mihalache Dumitru
Published: May 2008

A brief overview of recent theoretical results in the area of three-dimensional dissipative optical solitons is given. A systematic analysis demonstrates the existence and stability of both fundamental (spinless) and spinning three-dimensional dissipative solitons in both normal and anomalous group-velocity regimes. Direct numerical simulations of the evolution of stationary solitons of the three-dimensional cubic-quintic Ginzburg-Landau equation show full agreement with the predictions based on computation of the instability eigenvalues from the linearized equations for small perturbations. It is shown that the diffusivity in the transverse plane is necessary for the stability of vortex solitons against azimuthal perturbations, while fundamental (zero-vorticity) solitons may be stable in the absence of diffusivity. It has also been found that, at values of the nonlinear gain above the upper border of the soliton existence domain, the three-dimensional dissipative solitons either develop intrinsic pulsations or start to expand in the temporal (longitudinal) direction keeping their structure in the transverse spatial plane.
Immunopathogenesis of psoriatic arthritis: Recent advances
Authors: Stavropoulos Panayiotis , Goules Andreas , Avgerinou Georgia , Katsambas Andreas
Published: May 2008

Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) is a chronic inflammatory arthritis associated with psoriasis. The pathophysiology of PsA includes genetic, environmental and immunologic factors. Recent studies revealed the dynamic role of the immune system in the pathogenesis of the disease. Adhesion molecules, proinflammatory cytokines, angiogenic factors and metalloproteinases appear to orchestrate the inflammatory response in PsA. This article summarizes the current immunologic findings and suggests future therapeutic and researching approaches in the field of PsA.
Entropy criterion of random states for granular material in a mixing process
Authors: Masiuk Stanisław , Rakoczy Rafał , Kordas Marian
Published: May 2008

Mathematical assessment of homogenisation progress of the granular material mixing process is presented. The mixing process was realised using a vessel in the form of two partly penetrating horizontal cylinders equipped with two multi-ribbon agitators. The experimental system consisted of three sets of particles of different colour. Random states of the mixed granular material were characterised by the sampling procedure at different moments of the mixing process. Informational entropy as well as the flow of quantum of information were applied to describe the progress of the homogenisation process. Analysis of this process was based on experimental investigations in the form of informational entropy patterns and described by means of the average informational entropy or the quantum of information.
Synthesis and electrical properties of CuBr2 complexes with 1,10-phenanthroline monohydrate
Authors: Taşcıoǧlu Sülin , Kakı Esra , Arı Mehmet
Published: May 2008

Using 1,10-phenanthroline monohydrate and CuBr2 in molar ratios of 1:1 and 2:1, in CH3OH/H2O (ϕr = 1:1), the complexes [(phen)CuBr2]2, (I), and {[(phen)2CuBr]Br·H2O}, (II), have been prepared. The hydrogen bondings and aqua bridges between coordinated and noncoordinated bromides of II have been observed by XRD. Complex II has a triclinic crystal structure with distorted trigonal bipyramidal coordination geometry. Possibilities of ligand exchange with hydroxide or ammonia have been examined in both complexes. While the mononuclear complex II is stable in a refluxed ammonia solution and the complex {[phen)2CuBr]Br·3H2O}, (IV), trihydrate of II, is obtained; the binuclear complex I reacts with the ammonia solution to replace one of its bromides in the subunits with hydroxide to give {[(phen)2Cu2Br2(OH)2]·4H2O}, (III). Structural and electrical properties of the complexes have been investigated by elemental analysis, vibrational and electronic spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, TGA, XRD and the four-point probe method. The temperature coefficients of resistivity and the activation energies of the complexes have also been obtained. All complexes behave as intrinsic semiconductor in the temperature range of 310–440 K.
Preparation and antiplatelet activity of glycidic acid derivatives
Authors: Jampílek Josef , Brojerová Eliška , Doležal Martin , Kuneš Jiří , Jun Daniel
Published: May 2008

Arylalkanoic acid derivatives exhibit a variety of biological effects. In the current publication some of new glycidic acid derivatives were prepared via the Darzens condensation. The synthetic approach, analytical and spectroscopic data of all newly synthesized compounds are presented. The prepared compounds were evaluated as potential inhibitors of arachidonic acid-induced platelet aggregation and their activity was compared with that of acetylsalicylic acid as the standard. (±)-Ethyl 3-{4-[(4-methoxyphenyl)sulfanyl]phenyl}-3-methyl-cis-oxirane-2-carboxylate (IC50 = 0.07 mmol L−1) and (±)-3-{4-[(4-methoxyphenyl)sulfanyl]phenyl}-3-methyl-cis-oxirane-2-carboxylic acid (IC50 = 0.06 mmol L−1) showed the highest antiplatelet activity against arachidonic acid-induced platelet aggregation comparable with the standard. Structure-activity relationships between the chemical structure, lipophilicity, and the antiplatelet activity of the evaluated compounds are discussed.
Synthesis and antimicrobial activity of quinoline-based 2-pyrazolines
Authors: Munawar Munawar , Azad Muhammad , Athar Makshoof , Groundwater Paul
Published: May 2008

A series of 2-pyrazolines was prepared in a reaction of quinolinylchalcones with phenyl hydrazine under both conventional and microwave-induced heating. Structures of the synthesized compounds were characterized by spectroscopic data and CHN analyses. All prepared compounds were tested for antimicrobial activity against bacterial strains, viz. Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhii, Escherichia coli, and Shigella dysentery. Almost all synthesized compounds have shown antimicrobial activity; however, compounds with a chloro group as a substituent have been found to be more effective.
On the tautomerism of 1-phenyl-3-substituted-pyrazol-5-ones and their photoinduced products — experimental and theoretical UV spectral analysis
Authors: Chapkanov Atanas , Koleva Bojidarka , Arnaudov Michail , Petkov Ivan
Published: May 2008

A detailed experimental and theoretical UV-spectral analysis of the tautomeric forms of 3-methyl-1-phenyl pyrazol-5-one and 1,3-diphenyl pyrazol-5-one as well as of the UV-irradiated photoinduced products of the latter compound were carried out. The experimental UV-spectra were compared with the theoretical ones obtained by CIS/6-31G**. Selected geometrical parameters of the different tautomers were estimated by ab initio calculations using the RHF/6-31G** level of theory and basis set, which have also been discussed with a view to the corresponding UV-results.
Spectrofluorimetric determination of uric acid based on its activation of catalytic oxidation of pyronine Y
Authors: Feng Suling , Liu Xueping
Published: May 2008

A novel kinetic spectrofluorimetric method for the determination of uric acid based on the activation effect of uric acid on the Cu(II) ion catalyzed oxidation of pyronine Y by hydrogen peroxide was developed. The influence of different buffer solutions was tested and the Britton-Robinson buffer solution with pH 2.2 was found to be the optimum. The detection limit and the linear range for uric acid are 0.09 μg mL−1 and 0.3–3.0 μg mL−1, respectively. The RSD for eleven determinations of 1.6 μg mL−1 uric acid was 1.6 %. Satisfactory results were obtained when using this method of uric acid determination in human urine.
Packed column inlet as a direct injection capillary inlet
Authors: Wawrzyniak Rafał
Published: May 2008

Discrimination is a known problem when analyzing high-boiling compounds, which considerably hinders their analysis at trace levels. This problem can be solved by using either direct or on-column injection. Modification of a standard injection port liner and a micro-syringe is presented, so that a direct injection with in-column evaporation can be easily done. The proposed changes are compatible with any packed column injection port, simple to implement, and inexpensive. The changes are described and the analysis of acyloglycerols in diesel oil spiked with 50 % FAME is used to demonstrate the utility of the proposed injection technique.
Me Too!: Social modelling influences on early autobiographical memories
Authors: Peterson Tiamoyo , Kaasa Suzanne O. , Loftus Elizabeth F.
Published: May 2008

To investigate the malleability of early memories, 200 participants were asked to describe their earliest memories. Before doing so, approximately half were exposed to confederates who described very early memories such as their first steps or a second birthday party, while others were asked only to think about their earliest memories for two minutes before beginning writing. Participants who were exposed to confederate very early memories produced memories that were nearly a year younger on average than the memories reported by controls (2.99 years vs. 3.96 years). Additionally, when participants in the memory discussion condition were asked about an early event that a confederate had recounted they were more confident than controls that they could recall the event in their own lives. These results indicate that autobiographical memories for early events are quite susceptible to social influence and that simply hearing the very early memories of others can alter autobiographical memory. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A novel non‐parametric regression reveals linkage on chromosome 4 for the number of externalizing symptoms in sib‐pairs
Authors: Ghosh Saurabh , Bierut Laura J. , Porjesz Bernice , Edenberg Howard J. , Dick Danielle , Goate Alison , Hesselbrock Victor , Nurnberger John , Foroud Tatiana , Kramer John , Rice John , Begleiter Henri
Published: May 2008

In this report, we present results of a genome‐wide linkage scan using as a phenotype the number of externalizing symptoms associated with alcohol use disorders. Subjects were collected by the Collaborative Study on the Genetics of Alcoholism project from families in which at least three first degree relatives were affected by alcohol dependence. We use a novel non‐parametric regression method based on kernel smoothing for our analysis. We report a statistically significant linkage close to the ADH gene cluster on Chromosome 4. We also obtain evidence for epistatic interaction between a region on Chromosome 1 and one on Chromosome 15. Although alcoholism as a covariate does not have any effect on the linkage scan, it has an effect on the epistatic interaction. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.