bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of serial laminar tissue collection via biopsy in conscious healthy horses
Authors: Hanly Brenna K. , Stokes Ashley M. , Bell Amy M. , Johnson Jill R. , Keowen Michael L. , Paulsen Daniel B. , Sod Gary A. , Moore Rustin M.
Published: June 2009

Objective—To determine the feasibility of performing serial laminar and skin biopsies on sedated horses and whether sampling affected adjacent tissues.

Animals—6 horses.

Procedures—Laminar tissues were harvested via biopsy through the hoof wall from healthy conscious horses via sedation and regional anesthesia. Eight specimens were collected at 4 time points during 24 hours from a single foot. Laminar biopsy specimens were harvested with a 6-mm-diameter biopsy punch after burring through the horny corium to the stratum medium. Skin biopsy specimens were collected from an area proximal to the coronary band. All tissues were examined via light microscopy. Total RNA was extracted and quantified, and gene expression analysis was completed for 2 housekeeping genes and the inflammatory mediator cyclooxygenase-2.

Results—Laminar and skin biopsies yielded adequate specimens for histologic and gene expression evaluation. There was no extension of inflammation or detectable damage to adjacent tissues during the 24-hour period in either laminar or skin specimens as judged via histologic findings and cyclooxygenase-2 expression. Lameness and discomfort induced by the procedure were minimal.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Laminar biopsy provided a satisfactory method of collecting laminar specimens and allowed serial sampling of individual horses.
Evaluation of anesthesia recovery quality after low-dose racemic or S-ketamine infusions during anesthesia with isoflurane in horses
Authors: Larenza M. Paula , Ringer Simone K. , Kutter Annette P. N. , Conrot Aude , Theurillat Regula , Kummer Martin , Thormann Wolfgang , Bettschart-Wolfensberger Regula
Published: June 2009

Objective—To compare anesthesia recovery quality after racemic (R-/S-) or S-ketamine infusions during isoflurane anesthesia in horses.

Animals—10 horses undergoing arthroscopy.

Procedures—After administration of xylazine for sedation, horses (n = 5/group) received R-/S-ketamine (2.2 mg/kg) or S-ketamine (1.1 mg/kg), IV, for anesthesia induction. Anesthesia was maintained with isoflurane in oxygen and R-/S-ketamine (1 mg/kg/h) or S-ketamine (0.5 mg/kg/h). Heart rate, invasive mean arterial pressure, and end-tidal isoflurane concentration were recorded before and during surgical stimulation. Arterial blood gases were evaluated every 30 minutes. Arterial ketamine and norketamine enantiomer plasma concentrations were quantified at 60 and 120 minutes. After surgery, horses were kept in a padded recovery box, sedated with xylazine, and video-recorded for evaluation of recovery quality by use of a visual analogue scale (VAS) and a numeric rating scale.

Results—Horses in the S-ketamine group had better numeric rating scale and VAS values than those in the R-/S-ketamine group. In the R-/S-ketamine group, duration of infusion was positively correlated with VAS value. Both groups had significant increases in heart rate and mean arterial pressure during surgical stimulation; values in the R-/S-ketamine group were significantly higher than those of the S-ketamine group. Horses in the R-/S-ketamine group required slightly higher end-tidal isoflurane concentration to maintain a surgical plane of anesthesia. Moderate respiratory acidosis and reduced oxygenation were evident. The R-norketamine concentrations were significantly lower than S-norketamine concentrations in the R-/S-ketamine group.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Compared with R-/S-ketamine, anesthesia recovery was better with S-ketamine infusions in horses.
Psychometric testing of the Helsinki chronic pain index by completion of a questionnaire in Finnish by owners of dogs with chronic signs of pain caused by osteoarthritis
Authors: Hielm-Björkman Anna K. , Rita Hannu , Tulamo Riitta-Mari
Published: June 2009

Objective—To determine the validity, reliability, and sensitivity of a published chronic pain index by completion of a questionnaire in Finnish by owners of dogs with chronic signs of pain caused by osteoarthritis.

Animals—61 client-owned dogs with osteoarthritis.

Procedures—Validity, internal consistency, and repeatability testing of the questionnaire were evaluated by completion of questions in Finnish by owners of 61 dogs; the questionnaire was named the Helsinki chronic pain index (HCPI). Sensitivity testing of the questionnaire was determined from data of 2 smaller groups of dogs treated with carprofen (n = 17) or placebo (17). Owners completed the questionnaire 5 times during a 16-week period. Psychometric properties of the HCPI were evaluated.

Results—Principal component analysis yielded only a single stable component, indicating that the HCPI was best explained as an 11-item single construct index of chronic pain. Changes in the HCPI correlated well with change in quality of life and with change in the mobility visual analogue scale (r = 0.72 and r = 0.67, respectively), indicating a high predictive validity. Internal consistency (Cronbach A value = 0.82) and test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.84 for items and 0.92 for the HCPI) were high. Changes in scores (from baseline to treatment and back to no treatment) between the carprofen treatment group and placebo control group were significant, indicating high sensitivity.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The Finnish version of the HCPI provided a valid, reliable, and responsive tool for assessment of response to treatment in dogs with osteoarthritis.
Evaluation of Lactobacillus rhamnosus strain GG for the prevention of atopic dermatitis in dogs
Authors: Marsella Rosanna
Published: June 2009

Objective—To evaluate the efficacy of the probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus strain GG for the alleviation or prevention of clinical signs of atopic dermatitis (AD) in genetically predisposed dogs.

Animals—2 adult Beagles with severe AD and 16 puppies.

Procedures—The 2 adult Beagles were bred twice, with a year between breedings. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG was administered to the bitch during the second pregnancy and to the puppies of the second litter from 3 weeks to 6 months of age. Both litters were epicutaneously sensitized to Dermatophagoides farinae. Blood samples were collected from puppies every 6 weeks to measure serum titers of allergen-specific IgE. At 6 months of age, all puppies underwent intradermal allergen testing and environmental challenge with D farinae. Clinical signs were scored.

Results—In the first litter, at 6 months of age, 7 of 7 puppies were strongly seropositive for IgE against D farinae, 6 had a positive reaction to intradermal testing, and 7 developed severe clinical signs of AD after the environmental challenge. In the second litter, 7 of 9 puppies were seropositive, 3 had a positive reaction to intradermal testing, and 6 developed dermatitis and pruritus after the challenge. The second litter had a significantly lower serum titer of allergen-specific IgE and milder reaction to intradermal testing, compared with the first litter. Clinical scores did not differ between litters.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Administration of L rhamnosus GG to puppies appeared to reduce immunologic indicators of AD, although no significant decrease in clinical signs was detected.
Urinary iodide concentration in hyperthyroid cats
Authors: Wakeling Jennifer , Elliott Jonathan , Petrie Aviva , Brodbelt David , Syme Harriet M.
Published: June 2009

Objective—To compare concentrations of urinary iodide (UI) in euthyroid and untreated hyperthyroid cats.

Animals—118 euthyroid and 88 hyperthyroid client-owned cats from 2 nonreferral veterinary practices.

Procedures—Iodide concentration was measured in 5 urine samples collected every 3 to 12 months from selected cats, and variability of results between euthyroid cats and hyperthyroid cats prior to the diagnosis of hyperthyroidism was evaluated via 1-way ANOVA, after logarithmic transformation of UI concentrations (logUIs). The UI concentration in hyperthyroid cats was measured at diagnosis and 2 to 6 weeks and 3 to 6 months after treatment for hyperthyroidism. The pretreatment logUI in hyperthyroid cats was compared with that in euthyroid cats, taking into account the effects of renal function on UI concentration. Iodine intake was estimated in euthyroid cats following calculation of the volume of daily urine output, with a fixed value for iodine concentration in feces.

Results—The variability of UI concentrations did not differ significantly between hyperthyroid (n = 10) and euthyroid (8) cats. The logUI increased 2 to 6 weeks after initiation of treatment in hyperthyroid cats (n = 80) and was lower in azotemic versus nonazotemic cats. Hyperthyroid cats had a lower logUI than euthyroid cats, and there was no evidence of deficient iodine intake in euthyroid cats.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The logUI was lower in cats with azotemia and with untreated hyperthyroidism, compared with that in euthyroid cats from the same population. Additional studies are needed to determine whether iodine intake plays a role in the development of hyperthyroidism in cats.
Comparison of equine tendon-, muscle-, and bone marrow–derived cells cultured on tendon matrix
Authors: Stewart Allison A. , Barrett Jennifer G. , Byron Christopher R. , Yates Angela C. , Durgam Sushmitha S. , Evans Richard B. , Stewart Matthew C.
Published: June 2009

Objective—To compare viability and biosynthetic capacities of cells isolated from equine tendon, muscle, and bone marrow grown on autogenous tendon matrix.

Sample Population—Cells from 4 young adult horses.

Procedures—Cells were isolated, expanded, and cultured on autogenous cell-free tendon matrix for 7 days. Samples were analyzed for cell viability, proteoglycan synthesis, collagen synthesis, and mRNA expression of collagen type I, collagen type III, and cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP).

Results—Tendon- and muscle-derived cells required less time to reach confluence (approx 2 weeks) than did bone marrow–derived cells (approx 3 to 4 weeks); there were fewer bone marrow–derived cells at confluence than the other 2 cell types. More tendon- and muscle-derived cells were attached to matrices after 7 days than were bone marrow–derived cells. Collagen and proteoglycan synthesis by tendon- and muscle-derived cells was significantly greater than synthesis by bone marrow–derived cells. On a per-cell basis, tendon-derived cells had more collagen synthesis, although this was not significant. Collagen type I mRNA expression was similar among groups. Tendon-derived cells expressed the highest amounts of collagen type III and COMP mRNAs, although the difference for COMP was not significant.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Tendon- and muscle-derived cells yielded greater cell culture numbers in shorter time and, on a per-cell basis, had comparable biosynthetic assays to bone marrow–derived cells. More in vitro experiments with higher numbers may determine whether tendon-derived cells are a useful resource for tendon healing.
Effect of a tart cherry juice blend on exercise-induced muscle damage in horses
Authors: Ducharme Normand G. , Fortier Lisa A. , Kraus Marc S. , Hobo Seiji , Mohammed Hussni O. , McHugh Malachy P. , Hackett Richard P. , Soderholm Leo V. , Mitchell Lisa M.
Published: June 2009

Objective—To evaluate whether administering a tart cherry juice blend (TCJB) prior to exercise would reduce skeletal and cardiac muscle damage by decreasing the inflammatory and oxidative stress response to exercise in horses.

Animals—6 horses.

Procedures—Horses were randomly allocated into 2 groups in a crossover study with a 2-week washout period and orally administered either TCJB or a placebo solution (1.42 L, twice daily) in a double-masked protocol for 2 weeks prior to a stepwise incremental exercise protocol. Horses were tested for serum activities of creatine kinase and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and concentrations of cardiac troponin I (cTnI), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS; an indicator of oxidative stress), and serum amyloid A (SAA; an indicator of inflammation). To ensure that treatment would not result in positive results of an equine drug-screening protocol, serum samples obtained from each horse prior to and after 2 weeks of administration of TCJB or the placebo solution were tested.

Results—All horses had negative results of drug screening at both sample times. The exercise protocol resulted in a significant increase in TBARS concentration, SAA concentration, and serum AST activity in all horses. Administration of TCJB or placebo solution was not associated with an effect on malondialdehyde or SAA concentrations. However, administration of TCJB was associated with less serum activity of AST, compared with administration of placebo solution.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Administration of TCJB may diminish muscle damage induced by exercise.
In vitro evaluation of differences in phase 1 metabolism of ketamine and other analgesics among humans, horses, and dogs
Authors: Capponi Livia , Schmitz Andrea , Thormann Wolfgang , Theurillat Regula , Mevissen Meike
Published: June 2009

Objective—To investigate cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes involved in metabolism of racemic and S-ketamine in various species and to evaluate metabolic interactions of other analgesics with ketamine.

Sample Population—Human, equine, and canine liver microsomes.

Procedures—An analgesic was concurrently incubated with luminogenic substrates specific for CYP 3A4 or CYP 2C9 and liver microsomes. The luminescence signal was detected and compared with the signal for negative control samples. Ketamine and norketamine enantiomers were determined by use of capillary electrophoresis.

Results—A concentration-dependent decrease in luminescence signal was detected for ibuprofen and diclofenac in the assay for CYP 2C9 in human and equine liver microsomes but not in the assay for CYP 3A4 and methadone or xylazine in any of the species. Coincubation of methadone or xylazine with ketamine resulted in a decrease in norketamine formation in equine and canine liver microsomes but not in human liver microsomes. In all species, norketamine formation was not affected by ibuprofen, but diclofenac reduced norketamine formation in human liver microsomes. A higher rate of metabolism was detected for S-ketamine in equine liver microsomes, compared with the rate for the S-enantiomer in the racemic mixture when incubated with any of the analgesics investigated.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Enzymes of the CYP 3A4 family and orthologs of CYP 2C9 were involved in ketamine metabolism in horses, dogs, and humans. Methadone and xylazine inhibited in vitro metabolism of ketamine. Therefore, higher concentrations and diminished clearance of ketamine may cause adverse effects when administered concurrently with other analgesics.
Effect of gastric ulceration on physiologic responses to exercise in horses
Authors: Nieto Jorge E. , Snyder Jack R. , Vatistas Nicholas J. , Jones James H.
Published: June 2009

Objective—To develop a protocol to induce and maintain gastric ulceration in horses and to determine whether gastric ulceration affects physiologic indices of performance during high-speed treadmill exercise.

Animals—20 healthy Thoroughbreds.

Procedures—Each horse was acclimatized to treadmill exercise during a 2-week period. Subsequently, baseline data were collected (day 0) and each horse began an incrementally increasing exercise training program (days 1 through 56). Beginning on day 14, horses were administered omeprazole (4 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h until day 56) or no drug (10 horses/group) and underwent alternating 24-hour periods of feeding and feed withholding for 10 days to induce gastric ulceration. Extent of gastric ulceration was assessed weekly thereafter via gastroscopy. Physiologic indices of performance were measured at days 0 and 56. Gastric ulceration and exercise performance indices were compared within and between groups.

Results—In untreated horses, gastric ulcers were induced and maintained through day 56. Gastric ulcer formation was prevented in omeprazole-treated horses. There were significant interactions between time (pre- and post-training data) and treatment (nonulcer and ulcer groups) for mass-specific maximal O2 consumption (O2max/Mb) and mass-specific maximal CO2 production (CO2max/Mb). Post hoc analysis revealed a difference between groups for O2max/Mb at day 56. Within-group differences for O2max/Mb and CO2max/Mb were detected for omeprazole-treated horses, but not for the horses with ulcers.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In horses, gastric ulcers were induced and maintained by use of alternating periods of feeding and feed withholding in association with treadmill exercise (simulated racetrack training). Gastric ulcers adversely affected physiologic indices of performance in horses.
Ecology of Indian Roofed Turtle, Pangshura tectum (Gray 1831) in Bangladesh
Authors: Hossai Md. Lokman , Sarker Shomb Uddin , Sarker Noor Jahan
Published: June 2009

lndian roofed turtle, Pangshura tectum, was found in all types of aquatic habitats in Bangladesh. Of the 8 categories of habitats studied, the highest number (42.74%) was found in domestic ponds followed by derelict ponds, tanks, marshlands, canals, agriculture fields, lakes, streams and puddles. Most of the time the turtle was found in basking condition (60.09%), while rarely it was observed in burrowing condition. In addition to this, Indian roofed turtle spent 31.75% time in feeding and 8.16% in browsing.Key words: Indian roofed turtle, ecology, habitat preference, behavioural patternsdoi: 10.3126/eco.v13i0.1621Ecoprint (An International Journal of Ecology) Vol. 13, No. 1, 2006 , Page 1-8
Mangrove Forest Species Composition and Density in Balok River, Pahang, Malaysia
Authors: Rozainah M. Z. , Mohamad M. R.
Published: June 2009

Sixteen mangrove species from 10 families, including four associate species, were recorded in 4 study plots along the riverbanks of Balok river, Kuantan and Pahang. Rhizophora   apiculata and Xylocarpus granatum appeared in all plots.  R. apiculata shows the highest density (819 per ha) followed by R. mucronata (775 per ha). Highest species diversity was recorded in the order of plots located on downstream to the river mouth, based on the Shannon-Weiner Diversity Index.Key words: Mangrove; flora; ecology; regeneration; dominance;  diversity; Pahang.doi: 10.3126/eco.v13i0.1624Ecoprint (An International Journal of Ecology) Vol. 13, No. 1, 2006 Page: 23-28
A Prospective Study of Lymphatic Filariasis in an Endemic Village of Kapilbastu District, Nepal
Authors: Gupta R. , Lanichhane J.
Published: June 2009

Lymphatic filariasis is a major problems health problem in Nepal. A prospective study was conducted in Maharajgunj VDC, Kapilbastu district, Nepal with the objective to analyze the epidemiological situation of the disease lymphatic filariasis. A total of 505 blood samples were collected by ear-lobe prick method.Out of 505 blood samples, 50 samples (9.90%) were found to be positive for microfilaria (mf) within age between 3 to 85 years. In the present study the highest endemicity rate was found in the age group 61-70 years and the lowest  endemicity rate 6.67% was found in the age group < = 10 years. Illiteracy, poor sanitation , lack of knowledge about the disease and not taking precaution of filariasis , habit of working in the fields till late night and early in the morning, sleeping outdoor without bed-nets, keeping cattle in the same house where they live were identified as risk factors for the disease.Key words: Prevalence; Lymphatic filariasis; Microfilaria; Crude disease rate.doi: 10.3126/eco.v13i0.1626Ecoprint (An International Journal of Ecology)  Vol. 13, No. 1, 2006 Page: 29-34
Breeding Biology, Captive Breeding and Fry Nursing of Himped Featherback (Notopterus chilata, Hamilton-Buchanan, 1822)
Authors: Hossain Q. Z. , Hossain M. A. , Psrween S.
Published: June 2009

A study was conducted to observe the captive breeding performance with maturing sages and fry nursing of the threatened indigenous fish species Notopterus chitala at Arabpur fish farm  (Longitude 89°12'15" E, Latitude 23°10'30" N), Jessore, Bangladesh during 1998 to 2001. The peak period of ovulation for N. chitala was found from July to August and the fish attained its first maturity at third year of age. Captive breeding is the most effective and basis process in case of N. chitala when cemented tank was used for collection of fertilized eggs, percentage of fertilization and hatching in stead of bamboo pole, plastic barrel, cemented tank and barrel made of tin. In the nursery practices live benthos, hatching of Thai punti and silver carp were used as feed of the spawn but the highest growth and survivability of the fish fry obtained by using Barbodes gonionotus (thai punti) spawn and live Tubifex sp. (benthos).Key Words: Fertilization; hatching; growth; survivabilitydoi: 10.3126/eco.v13i0.1628Ecoprint (An International Journal of Ecology) Vol. 13, No. 1, 2006 Page : 41-47
Diversity of Algae in Relation to Water Pollution of Satri Tank Chhatarpur (M.P.) India
Authors: Khare Pushpendra Kumar
Published: June 2009

This paper is report of phytoplankton from Satri Tank of Bundelkhand region, India. Total 43 species and 27 genera have been identified from Satri Tank, among these 18 species belonged to Chlorophyceae 17 species to Cyanophyceae, 6 to Bacillariophyceae and 2 to Euglenophyceae. Qualitatively Chlorophyceae were abundant. The species of Spirulina, Oscillatoria, Microcystics and Nostoc were dominant. The tank is indicative of highly eutrophic status and biologically dead in term of its unability to provide the aesthetic pleasure of swimming, boating and fishing.Key words: Lower plant; Phytoplankton; Eutrophicdoi: 10.3126/eco.v13i0.1634Ecoprint (An International Journal of Ecology) Vol. 13, 2006 Page:69-72
Cyanophycean Flora 0f Southern Himanchal Pradesh, India
Authors: Dwivedi R. K. , Shukla S. K. , Shukla C. P. , Misra P. K. , Seth M. K.
Published: June 2009

The present paper deals with 37 taxa, 18 genera, 32 species, 4 varieties and 1 forma explored from southern Himanchal Pradesh of India. These taxa are represented by Microcystis, Chroococcus, Aphanocapsa, Aphanothece, Merismopedia, Coelosphaerium, Gomphosphaeria, Stichosiphon, Oscillatoria, Lyngbya, Pseudanabaena, Cylindrospermum, Anabaena, Nostoc, Nodularia, Fortiea, Calothrix, Anabaenopsis. Out of 37 taxa, 27 are first report from the study area. Key words: Fresh-water, blue-green algae, systematics, southern Himanchal Pradesh, India.   doi: 10.3126/eco.v15i0.1939   ECOPRINT 15: 29-36, 2008
Foraging Behaviour of the Himalayan Honeybee (Apis cerana F.) on Flowers of Fagopyrum esculentum M. and its Impact on Grain Quality and Yield
Authors: Singh Madhusudan Man
Published: June 2009

This paper presents the findings of two studies - one conducted on foraging behaviour of Himalayan honeybee (Apis cerana F.) on flowering buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) in November 2001 to 2002 and another on its impact on the grain quality and yield increment of this crop conducted during 2000-2002 under different pollination treatments at Kirtipur, Kathmandu valley. Apis cerana bees started their foraging activities early in the morning (06.14 ± 0.004) and ceased late in the evening (17.28 ± 0.011). Total duration of foraging activity was 10:00 h and the average duration of foraging trip was 4.5 ± 0.14 min. Two peaks of foraging activities were observed between 08.30 to 10.30 (Peak I) and 11.30 to 13.30 O' clock (Peak II). The peak I period was the main foraging period and peak II was the second foraging period, both were very useful from the pollination point of view. After this, Apis cerana activity slowly diminished to a stand still at 17.30 pm. The time spent by Apis cerana on the buckwheat inflorescence at different hours of the day 09.00, 12.00, 15.00 O' clock showed longest (24 ± 3 min) in the morning and it decreased as the afternoon approached. This study revealed that Apis cerana bee pollination increased grain set in terms of the total number of grains per plant (169.76 ± 4.10), grain weight (33.03 ± 0.26 g) and grain yield (4.40 ± 0.12 g). It also increased the value of fertility (16.08 ± 0.21) and harvest index (35.32 ± 0.35) when compared with Control pollination/excluding all the insects (CP) and Open pollination (OP) treatment. This is mainly due to greater number of pollinators in the Bee pollination (BP) treatment, their longer duration of foraging and also due to superior pollinating efficiency of Apis cerana bees. Key words: Apis cerana, F. beekeeping, buckwheat, fertility, foraging, harvest index, pollination, Kathmandu valley.   doi: 10.3126/eco.v15i0.1940   ECOPRINT 15: 37-46, 2008
On Some Desmids from Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, Nepal
Authors: Rai S. K. , Misra P. K.
Published: June 2009

The present work enumerates a total 26 desmids (Chlorophyta) from ponds and reservoirs in and around Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, Nepal. They belong to 8 genera i.e. Closterium (4), Euastrum (4), Micrasterias (3), Cosmarium (7), Staurastrum (3), Onychonema (2), Hyalotheca (1), and Desmidium (2). Of these, 11 taxa are new records for Nepal. Genus Onychonema is described here for the first time from Nepal. Key words: Algae, chlorophyta, Desmids, Koshi Tappu, Nepal.   doi: 10.3126/eco.v15i0.1942    ECOPRINT 15: 47-58, 2008
Ecology of Spotted Flapshell Turtle, Lissemys punctata (Lacepede, 1788) in Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain Md. Lokman , Sarker Shorab Uddin , Sarker Noor Jahan
Published: June 2009

Spotted flapshell turtle, Lissemys punctata was found in all types of habitats of Bangladesh. Of the 9 categories of habitats studied, the highest number (17.42%) of the turtle species was found in marshland followed by puddles (17.26%), agriculture fields (17.12%), streams (12.1%), canals (10.54%), tanks (10.39%), derelict ponds (9.18%) and domestic ponds (6.08%). Most of the time the turtle was found in burrowing condition (55.83%), rarely it was observed in feeding (7.2%) condition. The turtle seem to have a considerably higher tolerant in all types of environment, so it may be possible to set-up turtle farm commercially in Bangladesh. Key words: Spotted flapshell turtle, ecology, habitat preference, behavioral patterns. doi: 10.3126/eco.v15i0.1943  ECOPRINT 15: 59-67, 2008
Estimating Carbon Sequestration Rates and Total Carbon Stockpile in Degraded and Non-Degraded Sites of Oak and Pine Forest of Kumaun Central Himalaya
Authors: Jina B. S. , Sah Pankaj , Bhatt M. D. , Rawat Y. S.
Published: June 2009

We calculated the rates at which CO2 is being sequestered in two different forest types of Himalaya. For our comparative study we took the degraded and non-degraded sites of pine and oak forests in Kumaun Central Himalaya. The Van Panchayats (VPs) or Community Forests are managing the nondegraded forest sites for centuries, and from this research we have come to know that the sequestration of CO2 in these non-degraded forests is significantly greater than the degraded forests. The paper recommends the significance of community forests in both Uttarakhand and the world, and advocates that if we want to fight against global warming, we must encourage the community forests and that the people living in severe poverty in these forest areas who become the unsung heroes in the war against global warming, must be paid in lieu of saving their forests, which ultimately become the sink for increased CO2 worldwide. This business or ‘carbon trading' will indeed evolve as the panacea against the war against global warming. Key words: Carbon sequestration, community forests, Van Panchayats, green house gases, global warming, carbon trading.   doi: 10.3126/eco.v15i0.1946 ECOPRINT 15: 75-81, 2008
Korthalsella japonica (Viscacae): New Record for the Nepal Himalayas
Authors: Devkota Mohan Prasad , Joshi Giri Prasad
Published: June 2009

Korthalsella japonica (Thunb.) Engler (Viscaceae) mistletoe is reported as a new record for the Nepal Himalayas. Key words: Korthalsella japonica, Viscaceae, mistletoe, Nepal Himalayas. doi: 10.3126/eco.v15i0.1948 ECOPRINT 15: 89-90, 2008
A noninvasive laser-guided preincision localizer for spine surgery
Authors: Pakzaban Peyman
Published: June 2009

Object

The design and utilization of a novel device for noninvasive preincision localization of the target spine segment during lumbar spine surgery is presented.

Methods

The device consists of 4 low-energy laser diodes, emitting planar beams, mounted around the perimeter of a ring at right angles to each other. The beams are used to align 2 radiopaque cables hanging off the sides of the patient with the target spine segment and the radiographic source and film. The performance of the device in guiding the placement of the skin incision was prospectively evaluated in 76 consecutive patients undergoing unilateral 1-level microsurgical lumbar laminotomy. Preincision lateral radiographs obtained with the device were compared with postincision localizing radiographs in all patients.

Results

In all patients, the location of the incision guided by the final preincision radiograph was found to precisely overlie the target segment as confirmed by a postincision radiograph, the latter obtained after exposure of the underlying laminae. In no instance was it necessary to extend the incision, modify the surgical trajectory, or repeat the postincision radiograph due to improper incision placement. The device's radiopaque cables were clearly visualized on radiography as they traversed the spine image, regardless of body mass index. The initial preincision radiograph based on the surgeon's estimate of the location of the target site localized the target segment in 58 patients (76.3%) and an adjacent segment in the remaining 18 patients (23.7%). Accuracy of the surgeon's initial estimate of the target site (but not accuracy of the device) was found to be inversely associated with body mass index (p < 0.001), thickness of the subcutaneous fat layer overlying the spine (p < 0.001), and presence of transitional lumbosacral anatomy (p = 0.03).

Conclusions

The localization device presented herein provides accurate noninvasive localization of the target spine segment and guides precise placement of the incision over the target segment during lumbar spine surgery.
An anatomical study of the lumbosacral plexus as related to the minimally invasive transpsoas approach to the lumbar spine
Authors: Benglis David M. , Vanni Steve , Levi Allan D.
Published: June 2009

Object

Minimally invasive anterolateral approaches to the lumbar spine are options for the treatment of a number of adult degenerative spinal disorders. Nerve injuries during these surgeries, although rare, can be devastating complications. With an increasing number of spine surgeons utilizing minimal access retroperitoneal surgery to treat lumbar problems, the frequency of complications associated with this approach will likely increase. The authors sought to better understand the location of the lumbar contribution of the lumbosacral plexus relative to the disc spaces encountered when performing the minimally invasive transpsoas approach, also known as extreme lateral interbody fusion or direct lateral interbody fusion.

Methods

Three fresh cadavers were placed lateral, and a total of 3 dissections of the lumbar contribution of the lumbosacral plexus were performed. Radiopaque soldering wire was then laid along the anterior margin of the nerve fibers and the exiting femoral nerve. Markers were placed at the disc spaces and lateral fluoroscopy was used to measure the location of the lumbar plexus along each respective disc space in the lumbar spine (L1–2, L2–3, L3–4, and L4–5).

Results

The lumbosacral plexus was found lying within the substance of the psoas muscle between the junction of the transverse process and vertebral body and exited along the medial edge of the psoas distally. The lumbosacral plexus was most dorsally positioned at the posterior endplate of L1–2. A general trend of progressive ventral migration of the plexus on the disc space was noted at L2–3, L3–4, and L4–5. Average ratios were calculated at each level (location of the plexus from the dorsal endplate to total disc length) and were 0 (L1–2), 0.11 (L2–3), 0.18 (L3–4), and 0.28 (L4–5).

Conclusions

This anatomical study suggests that positioning the dilator and/or retractor in a posterior position of the disc space may result in nerve injury to the lumbosacral plexus, especially at the L4–5 level. The risk of injuring inherent nerve branches directed to the psoas muscle as well as injury to the genitofemoral nerve do still exist.
Synthesis and enzymatic evaluation of 2- and 4-aminothiazole-based inhibitors of neuronal nitric oxide synthase
Authors: Lawton Graham R , Ji Haitao , Martásek Pavel , Roman Linda J , Silverman Richard B
Published: June 2009

Highly potent and selective inhibitors of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) possessing a 2-aminopyridine group were recently designed and synthesized in our laboratory and were shown to have significant in vivo efficacy. In this work, analogs of our lead compound possessing 2- and 4-aminothiazole rings in place of the aminopyridine were synthesized. The less basic aminothiazole rings will be less protonated at physiological pH than the aminopyridine ring, and so the molecule will carry a lower net charge. This could lead to an increased ability to cross the blood-brain barrier thereby increasing the in vivo potency of these compounds. The 2-aminothiazole-based compound was less potent than the 2-aminopyridine-based analogue. 4-Aminothiazoles were unstable in water, undergoing tautomerization and hydrolysis to give inactive thiazolones.
Speaking to experts and patients: Recommendations for improving antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence
Authors: Frank Janice , Duncan Norman
Published: June 2009

This article reports on the findings of a study that aimed to explore experts’ and patients’ opinions and recommendations regarding adherence to antiretroviral medication. This study was prompted firstly by the lack of existing local research on adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and secondly by the importance of adherence, given the recent introduction of ART to the public health sector. Four experts and seven patients were interviewed. The experts had worked within the HIV/AIDS field for at least two years while the patients (chosen from public antiretroviral roll-out programmes) had been on ART for at least six months. These interviews were transcribed and analysed using thematic content analysis. This article focuses specifically on the recommendations for improving adherence that emerged from the experts' and patients' interviews. While the experts and patients generated two fairly distinct sets of recommendations (clearly informed by their different experiences and knowledge), both groups emphasised the importance of the mediating effects of social support and the healthcare provider–patient relationship in adherence to ART medication.OpsommingGesprekke met kundiges en pasiënte: Aanbevelings ter verbetering van ART-nakoming. Hierdie artikel doen verslag oor die bevindinge van ’n studie wat kundiges en pasiënte se menings en aanbevelings ten opsigte van die nakoming van antiretrovirale medikasievoorskrifte ondersoek het. Die studie is in die eerste plek uitgevoer na aanleiding van die gebrek aan bestaande plaaslike navorsing oor die nakoming van antiretrovirale terapie (ART) en in die tweede plek na aanleiding van die belangrikheid van nakoming in die lig van die onlangse bekendstelling van ART in die openbaregesondheidsektor. Onderhoude is met vier kundiges en sewe pasiënte gevoer. Die kundiges het vir ten minste twee jaar binne die MIV/Vigs-omgewing gewerk en die pasiënte (wat uit die openbare antiretrovirale bekendstellingsprogramme gekies is) het ten minste ses maande van ART-terapie ondergaan. Die onderhoude is getranskribeer en met die gebruik van tematiese inhoudsanalise ontleed. Hierdie artikel fokus spesifiek op die aanbevelings vir die verbetering van nakoming wat uit die onderhoude met die kundiges en die pasiënte gespruit het. Terwyl die kundiges en die pasiënte twee redelik uiteenlopende stelle aanbevelings gemaak het (wat duidelik deur hulle onderskeie ondervinding en kennis beïnvloed is), het altwee groepe beklemtoon dat die bemiddelende effek van maatskaplike ondersteuning en die verhouding tussen die pasiënt en die voorsiener van gesondheidsorg ’n belangrike rol speel in die nakoming van ART-medikasievoorskrifte.
Influence of fire frequency on Colophospermum mopane and Combretum apiculatum woodland structure and composition in northern Gonarezhou National Park, Zimbabwe
Authors: Gandiwa Edson , Kativu Shakkie
Published: June 2009

We investigated the long-term effects of fire frequency on Colophospermum mopane and Combretum apiculatum woodland structure and composition in northern Gonarezhou National Park (GNP), Zimbabwe. Fire frequency was categorised as high (every 1–2 years), medium (every 3–4 years) and low (every 5–6 years). The following variables were measured or recorded: plant height, species name, canopy depth and diameter, basal circumference, number of stems per plant, plant status (dead or alive) and number of woody plants in a plot. There was a positive correlation (r = 0.55, P = 0.0007) between annual area burnt (total from January to December) and annual rainfall (average over two rain stations per rain year, July to June) between 1972 and 2005. A total of 64 woody species were recorded from C. mopane and C. apiculatum woodlands. Mean plant height increased from 4.5 to 8.2 meters in C. mopane woodland and from 4.5 to 5.1 meters in C. apiculatum woodland in areas subjected to high and low fire frequencies. In C. mopane woodland, low fire frequency was characterised by a significantly low density of woody plants (P < 0.001), however, with a significantly high mean basal area (P < 0.001). Fire frequency had no significant effect on species diversity (P > 0.05). Our results suggest that C. mopane and C. apiculatum woodlands are in a state of structural transformation. Fire frequency effects, however, appear to be woodland specific. Fire management strategies in GNP should take into consideration annual rainfall and the different vegetation types.Conservation implication: This study provides valuable information on fire frequency effects on woody vegetation in northern GNP, which can be used in fire management programmes for the park. The positive relationship between annual rainfall and annual area burnt emphasises the need for wildlife managers to consider annual rainfall in fire management.
Organisational conflict: Reflections on managing conflict, identities and values in a selected South African organisation
Authors: Mayer Claude-Hélène , Louw Lynette
Published: June 2009

This article presents a case study on organisational conflict in a selected international organisation in the South African automotive industry to increase the contextual understanding of the topic. Data was gathered through in-depth interviews with 45 senior and middle managers in the selected international organisation at the head off ce and two branches in Gauteng and at one branch in KwaZulu-Natal. The data analysis was conducted through content analysis as well as triangulation of data. The research results show that managers in this industry in post-apartheid South Africa experience organisational conflicts that are associated with their managerial values and identities.
Compartmented Neuron Cultures for Directional Infection by Alpha Herpesviruses
Authors: Curanović Dušica , Ch'ng Toh Hean , Szpara Moriah , Enquist Lynn
Published: June 2009

Compartmented neuronal cultures allow experimenters to establish separate fluid environments for neuronal axons and the soma from which they emanate. Physical isolation of cell bodies and axons is achieved by culturing neurons in tri‐chambered Teflon rings. Dissociated ganglia are plated in one end compartment of the trichamber, and axonal growth is guided underneath watertight silicone grease barriers into a separate compartment. Since the axons and cell bodies are located in different compartments, they can be infected and assayed separately. We describe the assembly and use of compartmented neuronal cultures for in vitro study of directional infection of neurons by alpha herpesviruses. Selective application of viral inoculum to only one compartment ensures that the remainder of the neuron is not contaminated by input inoculum. This allows for quantification of viral spread, and unambiguous interpretation of immunofluorescence and electron microscopy images.Curr. Protoc. Cell Biol. 43:26.4.1‐26.4.23. © 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
HIV‐1 Interactions with Cells: From Viral Binding to Cell‐Cell Transmission
Authors: Janas Alicia M. , Wu Li
Published: June 2009

Characterization of HIV‐1 interactions with host cells is critical for cell biology studies of HIV‐1. This unit describes a set of methods and protocols to perform quantitative assays of HIV‐1 binding, internalization, infection, and cell‐cell transmission. The protocols include: (1) generating infectious single‐cycle or replication‐competent HIV‐1 stocks, (2) an HIV‐1 binding and internalization assay, (3) HIV‐1 infection of target cells and quantification of viral infection, and (4) HIV‐1 cell‐cell transmission assays. These functional assays provide useful tools to quantitatively study HIV‐1 infection and viral transmission. Curr. Protoc. Cell Biol. 43:26.5.1‐26.5.20. © 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Obtaining Comparative Genomic Data with the VISTA Family of Computational Tools
Authors: Ratnere Igor , Dubchak Inna
Published: June 2009

Comparison of DNA sequences from different species is a fundamental method for identifying functional elements, such as exons or enhancers, as they tend to exhibit significant sequence similarity due to purifying selection. Availability of whole‐genome sequences for a constantly growing number of organisms makes identification of such elements within these genomes possible. There are two distinct phases in comparisons of genomic sequences: in the first, the sequences are aligned, and in the second, the resulting alignments are analyzed to find conservation signals that may be indicative of functional regions. Due to the considerable length of alignments, good visual representation techniques are a necessity for effective isolation of regions of interest. The VISTA family of tools provides biomedical investigators with a unified framework for the alignment of long genomic sequences and whole‐genome assemblies, interactive visual analysis of alignments along with functional annotation, and many other comparative genomics capabilities. Curr. Protoc. Bioinform. 26:10.6.1‐10.6.17. © 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
ChEBI: An Open Bioinformatics and Cheminformatics Resource
Authors: Degtyarenko Kirill , Hastings Janna , de Matos Paula , Ennis Marcus
Published: June 2009

Chemical Entities of Biological Interest (ChEBI) is a freely available dictionary of molecular entities focused on “small” chemical compounds. This unit provides a detailed guide to browsing, searching, downloading, and programmatic access to the ChEBI database. Curr. Protoc. Bioinform. 26:14.9.1‐14.9.20. © 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Synthesis of Trisubstituted Pyrroles from Rhodium‐Catalyzed Alkyne Head‐to‐Tail Dimerization and Subsequent Gold‐ Catalyzed Cyclization
Authors: Peng Hong Mei , Zhao Jing , Li Xingwei
Published: June 2009

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Dimerization of N‐protected propargylic amines in a rather rare head‐to‐tail mode has been achieved under mild conditions with high selectivity using rhodium catalysts. The N‐protecting group could be a sulfonyl, carbamate, or carbonyl functionality and (cyclooctadiene)rhodium chloride dimer/1,1′‐bis(diphenylphosphino)ferrocene {[Rh(COD)Cl]2/dppf} as well as tris(triphenylphosphine)rhodium chloride [Rh(PPh3)3Cl] proved to be active catalysts. In addition, these functionalized gem‐enynes subsequently undergo selective gold(III)‐catalyzed intramolecular hydroamination to give trisubstituted pyrroles under mild conditions.
Atom‐Efficient, Palladium‐Catalyzed Stille Coupling Reactions of Tetraphenylstannane with Aryl Iodides or Aryl Bromides in Polyethylene Glycol 400 (PEG‐400)
Authors: Zhou Wen‐Jun , Wang Ke‐Hu , Wang Jin‐Xian
Published: June 2009

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The Stille coupling of tetraphenylstannane with aryl iodides or aryl bromides using the bis(triphenylphosphine)palladium dichloride/sodium acetate/polyethylene glycol 400 [PdCl2(PPh3)2/NaOAc/PEG‐400] catalytic system at 100 °C has been developed. The reactions were carried out in an atom‐efficient way, as 4 equivalents of aryl iodides or aryl bromides coupled effectively with 1 equivalent of tetraphenylstannane to furnish 4 equivalents of the corresponding functionalized biaryls in high yields.
An Efficient Solvent‐Free Route to Silyl Esters and Silyl Ethers
Authors: Ojima Yuko , Yamaguchi Kazuya , Mizuno Noritaka
Published: June 2009

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Dinuclear metal complexes, especially (p‐cymene)ruthenium dichloride dimer {[RuCl2(p‐cymene)]2}, have been found to exhibit high catalytic performance for the dehydrosilylation of various kinds of carboxylic acids and alcohols. The dehydrosilylation with [RuCl2(p‐cymene)]2 proceeded efficiently with only one equivalent of silane with respect to substrate (carboxylic acids or alcohols) under solvent‐free conditions to give the corresponding silyl esters and ethers in excellent yields with a high turnover number (TON) and frequency (TOF). The 1H NMR spectrum of a toluene‐d8 solution of [RuCl2(p‐cymene)]2 and a silane showed a signal assignable to the ruthenium hydride species. In contrast, no new signals were detected in the 1H NMR spectrum of a toluene‐d8 solution of [RuCl2(p‐cymene)]2 and a carboxylic acid or an alcohol. Therefore, the ruthenium metal in [RuCl2(p‐cymene)]2 activates a silane to afford the hydride intermediate, possibly a silylmetal hydride species. Then, the nucleophilic attack of a substrate (carboxylic acid or alcohol) to the hydride intermediate proceeds to give the corresponding silylated product. The present dehydrosilylation with an optically active silane proceeded exclusively under inversion of stereochemistry at the chiral silicon center, suggesting that the nucleophilic attack of a substrate to the hydride intermediate occurs from the backside of the ruthenium‐silicon bond.
Synergistic routes to liquid fuel for a petroleum‐deprived future
Authors: Agrawal Rakesh , Singh Navneet R.
Published: June 2009

When compared with biomass gasification/Fischer‐Tropsch synthesis, hydropyrolysis/hydrodeoxygenation (HDO)‐based processes have a potential to achieve high biomass carbon conversion to liquid fuel with much lower amounts of supplementary H2. On the basis of this observation, we suggest a Hydrogen Bio‐oil (H2Bioil) process using fast hydropyrolysis/HDO that has a potential to produce nearly double the amount of liquid fuel when compared with the existing biofuel processes while requiring only modest quantities of supplementary H2. The optimal operating mode for the H2Bioil process is suggested to be in an entrained bed mode in presence of H2 with gas phase HDO of hydropyrolyzed vapors. A remarkable result due to reduced need for the supplementary H2 is that it provides synergistic integration of the H2Bioil process with a coal gasification power plant or a small scale steam natural gas (NG) reformer leading to a dramatic increase in the liquid fuel production from biomass and coal or NG. Here, hot synthesis gas (T>500°C) from a coal gasifier or methane reformer supplies H2/CO for hydropyrolysis and deoxygenation as well as heat for the process. This result is exciting, because it presents us with an option to build integrated H2Bioil processes sooner rather than later when the cost effective H2 becomes available from a carbon‐free energy source such as solar or nuclear. The H2Bioil process and its integrated version with a small scale NG reformer have strong potential to be attractive on a small scale while being more efficient than any current biomass to liquid fuel process in operation. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2009