bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increasing Slowly Digestible Starch Content of Normal and Waxy Maize Starches and Properties of Starch Products
Authors: Wongsagonsup Rungtiwa , Varavinit Saiyavit , BeMiller James N.
Published: November 2008

Changes in the digestibility and the properties of the starch isolated from normal and waxy maize kernels after heat‐moisture treatment (HMT) followed by different temperature cycling (TC) or isothermal holding (IH) conditions were investigated. Moist maize kernels were heated at 80°C for 2 hr. The HMT maize kernels were subjected to various conditions designed to accelerate retrogradation of the starch within endosperm cells. Two methods were used to accelerate crystallization: TC with a low temperature of –24°C for 1 hr and a high temperature of 20, 30, or 50°C for 2, 4, or 24 hr for 1, 2, or 4 cycles, and IH at 4, 20, 30, or 50°C for 24 hr. The starch granules were then isolated from the treated kernels. The starch isolated from HMT normal maize kernels treated by TC using –24°C for 1 hr and 30°C for 2 hr for 2 cycles gave the greatest SDS content (24%) and starch yield (54%). The starch isolated from HMT waxy maize kernels treated by TC using –24°C for 1 hr and 30°C for 24 hr for 1 cycle had an SDS content of 19% and starch yield of 43%. The results suggest that TC after HMT changes the internal structure of maize starch granules in a way that results in the formation of SDS (and RS). They also suggest that thermal treatment of maize kernels is more effective in producing SDS than is the same treatment of isolated starch. All starch samples isolated from treated normal maize kernels exhibited lower peak viscosities, breakdown, and final viscosities and higher pasting temperatures than did the control (untreated normal maize starch). Although peak viscosities and breakdown of the starch isolated from treated waxy maize kernels were similar to those of the control (untreated waxy maize starch), their pasting temperatures were higher. The starch isolated from treated normal and waxy maize kernels with the highest SDS contents (described above) were further examined by DSC, X‐ray diffraction, and polarized light microscopy. Onset and peak temperatures of gelatinization of both samples were higher than those of the controls. Both retained the typical A‐type diffraction pattern of the parent starches. The relative crystallinity of the starch from the treated normal maize kernels was higher than that of the control, while the relative crystallinity of the starch from the treated waxy maize kernels was not significantly different from that of the control. Both treated starches exhibited birefringence, but the granule sizes of both starches, when placed in water, were slightly larger than those of the controls.
Dynamic QTL Analysis on Rice Fat Content and Fat Index Using Recombinant Inbred Lines
Authors: Wang H. L. , Zhang W. W. , Liu L. L. , Shen Y. Y. , Wang J. K. , Jiang L. , Zhai H. Q. , Wan J. M.
Published: November 2008

Fat content (FC) and fat index (FI) play an important role in determining quality of eating and nutrition for rice. The objective of this study was to determine genetic information during the grain‐filling period. Seventy‐one recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from a cross between japonica cultivar Asominori and indica cultivar IR24 were used to analyze the developmental behavior of FC and FI by conditional and unconditional quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping methods. At four developmental stages of grain filling, 11 unconditional QTL and 10 conditional QTL for FC as well as 11 unconditional QTL and eight conditional QTL for FI were identified. In unconditional QTL analysis, qFC‐11‐2 and qFI‐3 were consistently detected at 21 and 28 days after flowering (DAF), whereas all the conditional QTL for FC and FI could be detected at only one stage. Nine conditional and nine unconditional QTL for FC and FI were detected in the earlier three stages while three and two unconditional QTL for FC and FI, respectively, were detected in the mature stage, which suggested that more QTL could be found in the early developmental stages. The qFC‐1‐2 and qFI‐1‐2, qFC‐2‐2 and qFI‐2, qFC‐4 and qFI‐4, and qFC‐9 and qFI‐9 were located on the vicinal marker intervals. The present study suggested that accumulation of fat was governed by time‐dependent gene expression. In addition, dynamic QTL mapping might be a valid way to reveal more genetic information about the fat accumulation.
Utilization of Soil Solarization for Eliminating Viable Tilletia indica Teliospores from Arizona Wheat Fields
Authors: Peterson G. L. , Kosta K. L. , Glenn D. L. , Phillips J. G.
Published: November 2008

Studies were conducted in Arizona to determine the efficacy of soil solarization for killing teliospores of the soilborne fungal wheat pathogen Tilletia indica. In a replicated study conducted in each of 3 years, T. indica teliospores and bunted wheat kernels were buried in a Karnal bunt-infested wheat field at depths of 5, 10, and 20 cm. Replicate samples were removed from under a clear plastic solarization cover at 7-day intervals and the number of viable teliospores determined. A rapid decline in teliospore viability occurred at all treatment depths over 38 days, with efficacy comparable with methyl bromide protocols using clear plastic sheeting. Initial viability rates of 43, 71, and 82% germination were reduced to 0.1, 7.7, and 0.2% after 38 days (across all depths) in 2003, 2005, and 2006, respectively. Mean daily maximum soil temperatures at 5 and 20 cm under clear plastic in 2003, 2005, and 2006 were 67, 53 and 60°C and 43, 38, and 43°C, respectively. Under current United States Department of Agriculture disease management strategies, the method may be useful for the rapid deregulation of Karnal bunt-affected fields.
Evaluation of TOM-CAST in Timing Fungicide Sprays for Management of Alternaria Blight on American Ginseng
Authors: Hill S. N. , Hausbeck M. K.
Published: November 2008

Alternaria panax incites blighting of the foliage, peduncles, and drupes of cultivated American ginseng (Panax quinquefolium). A disease forecaster (TOM-CAST), originally developed to predict leaf blight caused by A. solani on tomato, was evaluated for management of A. panax in commercial ginseng gardens. For 3 years, fungicide sprays initiated by TOM-CAST (using 10 and 15 disease severity value thresholds) were compared with sprays applied at 7- and 10-day intervals. Three fungicide programs were evaluated: (i) chlorothalonil alone, (ii) chlorothalonil alternated with pyraclostrobin, and (iii) copper hydroxide alternated with pyraclostrobin. As many as 10 fewer fungicide applications were made when using TOM-CAST or the 10-day programs. Although select TOM-CAST treatment programs were comparable with the 7-day schedule in limiting foliar disease, only the 7-day applications adequately protected drupe and seed yield. Both A. panax and A. alternata were recovered from drupe tissues and seed coats. Only A. alternata was recovered from endosperm halves. Ginseng seed yield and quality is an important consideration when assessing fungicide programs.
Characterization of Cladosporium Rot in Grapevines, a Problem of Growing Importance in Chile
Authors: Briceño Erika X. , Latorre Bernardo A.
Published: November 2008

Cladosporium rot (Cladosporium spp.) of grapevine (Vitis vinifera) is a common disease in Chile, particularly in Cabernet Sauvignon and other red wine grape cultivars. It is favored by delayed harvest to obtain the phenolic maturity necessary for high-quality red wine. This study expands on previous investigations of the specific causal agents, the histopathological host:pathogen relationship, and the population dynamics of Cladosporium spp. during the seasonal development of grape clusters. Over 100 isolates were obtained and identified as C. cladosporioides and C. herbarum, confirming previous results. The identity of a subset of isolates was confirmed by molecular analysis. Isolates of both C. cladosporioides and C. herbarum from grapevines were pathogenic on inoculated table grapes and wine grapes. These pathogens were reisolated, fulfilling Koch's postulates. Berry injuries and total soluble solids content above 15% were necessary for Cladosporium spp. to infect wine grapes. The mycelia of C. cladosporioides and C. herbarum grew between 0 and 30°C, but no growth was obtained at 35°C in vitro. The histological studies showed that Cladosporium spp. superficially colonize mature V. vinifera berries, invading the epidermis but scarcely penetrating the hypodermis. The Cladosporium populations obtained on apparently healthy berries of V. vinifera cvs. Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay were significantly larger (P = 0.05) than the populations obtained under similar conditions on berries of V. champini cv. Ramsey and hybrids Kober 5BB and Couderc 1613. Considering the importance of Cladosporium rot in Chile compared with other grape production areas, the development of control strategies is needed to prevent high disease severity, which affects both yield and wine quality.
Development of a Nested Polymerase Chain Reaction Assay for Detection of Colletotrichum acutatum on Symptomless Strawberry Leaves
Authors: Pérez-Hernández O. , Nam M. H. , Gleason M. L. , Kim H. G.
Published: November 2008

A nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay was developed for detection of Colletotrichum acutatum on symptomless strawberry leaves. In pure culture, the assay detected as little as 1.0 fg of DNA extracted from mycelium and as few as 1.5 conidia ml–1 when conidial suspensions were sonicated. On detached inoculated leaves, three alternative protocols to dislodge the pathogen were assessed: (i) immersion of whole leaves in 0.05% Tween 20 and manual agitation in plastic bags for 1 min (A); (ii) immersion in Tween 20, sonication for 30 min, then agitation for 1 min (SA); and (iii) freezing for 3 h, incubation for 2 days at 27°C, immersion in Tween 20, then sonication for 30 min and agitation for 1 min (FISA). Each method removed significantly (P ≤ 0.05) more conidia from leaves than the nontreated control; however, removal of appressoria did not vary among assays. In composite samples of noninoculated and inoculated (1.5 ×103 conidia ml–1) strawberry leaves, the nested PCR assay using the FISA protocol detected C. acutatum in as few as 1 infested leaf in 50 noninfested leaves. In a strawberry field, the assay detected the presence of C. acutatum in samples of asymptomatic strawberry leaves, showing potential as a powerful tool for reliable diagnosis of the pathogen in the field.
Vertical Distribution ofPratylenchusspp. in Silt Loam Soil and Pacific Northwest Dryland Crops
Authors: Smiley Richard W. , Sheedy Jason G. , Easley Sandra A.
Published: November 2008

Dryland field crops in the Pacific Northwest United States are commonly produced in silt loams infested by the root-lesion nematodes Pratylenchus neglectus and P. thornei. Soils at 30 sites in Oregon were sampled from 0 to 120 cm depth to examine the vertical distribution of these Pratylenchus spp. Both species were distributed through entire soil profiles of all cropping systems. Populations were generally greatest in the surface 30 cm, but sometimes high populations were detected at depths greater than 45 cm. Sampling to 30 cm depth allowed detection of more than 50% of the population in most sites, while sampling to 45 cm depth yielded more than 75% of the population in over 75% of the sites evaluated. Therefore, soil samples should be collected to 30 to 45 cm depth to accurately estimate populations of Pratylenchus spp. in dryland crops produced on silt loams in the Pacific Northwest. Populations of Pratylenchus spp. were found to be related to the most recently planted crop, with populations after barley, after wheat, and during summer fallow being detected in ascending order.
Detection of Ralstonia solanacearum in Irrigation Ponds and Aquatic Weeds Associated with the Ponds in North Florida
Authors: Hong Jason C. , Momol M. Timur , Jones Jeffrey B. , Ji Pingsheng , Olson Stephen M. , Allen Caitilyn , Perez Amilcar , Pradhanang Prakash , Guven Kiymet
Published: November 2008

The discovery of exotic Ralstonia solanacearum biovar 1 strains on geranium in north Florida led to a concern that this strain may have become established. Therefore, we monitored irrigation ponds and potential alternative aquatic weeds from 2002 to 2005 for the presence of this strain. We report that this strain, possibly originating from the Caribbean, has become established in several ponds in Gadsden County, FL. Cladistic taxonomy was used to subclassify the bacterium at the species level into four groups or phylotypes based on multiplex polymerase chain reaction of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region. The bacterium was further divided into sequevars by sequencing the endoglucanase gene (egl). The strains were determined to belong to phylotype II/sequevar 4 NPB (nonpathogenic on banana) that was recently reported in Martinique. Partial sequencing of the egl followed by phylogenetic analysis placed the new Caribbean strains in a different clade than the typical Florida endemic strains. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) revealed different haplotypes upon comparison of the collected pond strains and the Floridian strains. Based on PFGE polymorphism, egl sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis, the Caribbean strains were shown to be identical to the strain isolated from infected geranium plants. Experiments were undertaken to monitor R. solanacearum in irrigation ponds and associated weeds. R. solanacearum was detected in surface-disinfested common aquatic weeds growing in the irrigation ponds, including Hydrocotyle ranunculoides (dollar weed) and Polygonum pennsylvanicum (Pennsylvania smart weed). Both weeds were latently infected and showed no signs of wilt when collected. Two different Hydrocotyle spp. were artificially inoculated with R. solanacearum under greenhouse conditions and both developed symptoms 14 days post inoculation (dpi) and the bacterium was recovered from the tissues 42 dpi. There was a positive correlation between ambient temperature and R. solanacearum populations in irrigation water, as previously shown by other researchers.
Cross-Protection as Control Strategy AgainstGrapevine fanleaf virusin Naturally Infected Vineyards
Authors: Komar Véronique , Vigne Emmanuelle , Demangeat Gérard , Lemaire Olivier , Fuchs Marc
Published: November 2008

The efficacy of cross-protection at mitigating the impact of Grapevine fanleaf virus (GFLV) on grapevines (Vitis vinifera) was assessed in two naturally infected vineyard sites. Test vines consisted of scions grafted onto rootstocks that were healthy or infected by mild protective strains GFLV-GHu or Arabis mosaic virus (ArMV)-Ta. Challenge GFLV infection via the nematode Xiphinema index was monitored over nine consecutive years in control and ArMV-Ta cross-protected vines by double-antibody sandwich–enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using GFLV-specific antibodies, and in GFLV-GHu cross-protected vines by characterizing the coat protein gene of superinfecting isolates by immunocapture–reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism. Results were consistent with a significantly reduced challenge infection rate in cross-protected vines compared with control vines, more so in those protected with GFLV-GHu (19 versus 90%) than with ArMV-Ta (40 versus 65% in field A and 63 versus 90% in field B). However, the two mild strains significantly reduced fruit yield by 9% (ArMV-Ta) and 17% (GFLV-GHu) over 8 years and had a limited effect on fruit quality. Therefore, in spite of a great potential at reducing the incidence of challenge field isolates, cross-protection with natural mild protective strains GFLV-GHu and ArMV-Ta is not attractive to control GFLV because the negative impact on yield is a limiting factor for its deployment.
First Report of Downy Mildew Caused by Pseudoperonospora cubensis on Chayote (Sechium edule) in Taiwan
Authors: Ko Y. , Chen C. Y. , Liu C. W. , Chen S. S. , Maruthasalam S. , Lin C. H.
Published: November 2008

Chayote (Sechium edule) is cultivated on more than 500 ha in Taiwan for its edible shoots and fruit. In August 2005 and later, 40 to 75% of the chayote plants cultivated in the Taichung District Agricultural Improvement Station in Puli developed pale yellow, irregular spots on the upper leaf surfaces with corresponding sporulation on the lower leaf surfaces. The lesions eventually became necrotic and spread over the entire leaf surface, leading to defoliation. Pseudoperonospora cubensis, which was previously reported as the cause of downy mildew on squash (Cucurbita moschata), muskmelon (Cucumis melo), cucumber (Cucumis sativus), and sponge gourd (Luffa cylindrica) in Taiwan, was identified (1). Sporangiophores were 182 to 410 μm long, 4.8 to 7.2 μm wide, and dichotomously branched. Sporangia were grayish, ovoid to ellipsoidal, 18.2 to 38.6 μm long, and 13.5 to 25.2 μm wide. Biflagellate zoospores were 9.5 to 12.6 μm in diameter. Pathogenicity tests were conducted four times with six 2-week-old plants in each trial. A sporangial suspension (1 × 105 spores per ml) prepared from infected leaves (5 to 6 weeks after infection) was sprayed on all leaves until runoff. The plants were then covered with polythene bags and incubated for 48 h at 18 ± 1°C in a growth chamber. Control plants were sprayed with sterile water. Characteristic symptoms developed on all inoculated plants after 20 days, while control plants remained symptomless. Microscopic observation of leaf tissues of symptomatic plants confirmed the presence of P. cubensis. To our knowledge, this is the first report of P. cubensis causing downy mildew on chayote in Taiwan.

References: (1) S. T. Hsu et al. List of Plant Diseases in Taiwan. The Phytopathological Society of the Republic of China, 2002.
Xenon Reduces N -Methyl-d-aspartate and α-Amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic Acid Receptor–mediated Synaptic Transmission in the Amygdala
Authors: Haseneder Rainer , Kratzer Stephan , Kochs Eberhard , Eckle Veit-Simon , Zieglgänsberger Walter , Rammes Gerhard
Published: November 2008

Background

The neuronal and molecular targets of the inhalational general anesthetic xenon are a matter of debate. The current knowledge is largely based on studies using neurons in culture or heterologous expression systems. In the current study, the authors evaluated for the first time the effect of xenon on synaptic transmission in the basolateral amygdala in an in vitro brain slice preparation of the mouse.

Methods

A patch clamp technique was used to evaluate the effects of xenon on N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) and alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptor-mediated excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs), as well as on gamma-aminobutyric acid type A receptor-mediated inhibitory postsynaptic currents. The currents were either evoked upon electrical stimulation (NMDA-eEPSCs, AMPA-eEPSCs) or upon focal, laser-guided photolysis of caged l-glutamate (p-NMDA-Cs, p-AMPA-Cs). In addition, the authors investigated the effects of xenon on miniature EPSCs.

Results

Xenon reversibly reduced basal synaptic transmission but had no effect on gamma-aminobutyric acid type A receptor-mediated inhibitory synaptic transmission. Xenon concentration-dependently diminished NMDA-eEPSCs and p-NMDA-Cs to the same amount. Likewise, xenon-induced reduction of AMPA-eEPSCs and p-AMPA-Cs did not differ. Xenon did not affect the frequency of miniature EPSCs but reduced their amplitude.

Conclusions

In the current study, xenon considerably depressed NMDA and AMPA receptor-mediated synaptic transmission in the basolateral amygdala without affecting inhibitory synaptic transmission. The results provide evidence that the effects of xenon on NMDA- and AMPA-EPSCs are primarily mediated via postsynaptic mechanisms.
Fiberoptic Oral Intubation
Authors: Chandra Deven B. , Savoldelli Georges L. , Joo Hwan S. , Weiss Israel D. , Naik Viren N.
Published: November 2008

Background

Previous studies have indicated that fiberoptic orotracheal intubation (FOI) skills can be learned outside the operating room. The purpose of this study was to determine which of two educational interventions allows learners to gain greater capacity for performing the procedure.

Methods

Respiratory therapists were randomly assigned to a low-fidelity or high-fidelity training model group. The low-fidelity group was guided by experts, on a nonanatomic model designed to refine fiberoptic manipulation skills. The high-fidelity group practiced their skills on a computerized virtual reality bronchoscopy simulator. After training, subjects performed two consecutive FOIs on healthy, anesthetized patients with predicted "easy" intubations. Each subject's FOI was evaluated by blinded examiners, using a validated global rating scale and checklist. Success and time were also measured.

Results

Data were analyzed using a two-way mixed design analysis of variance. There was no significant difference between the low-fidelity (n = 14) and high-fidelity (n = 14) model groups when compared with the global rating scale, checklist, time, and success at achieving tracheal intubation (all P = not significant). Second attempts in both groups were significantly better than first attempts (P < 0.001), and there was no interaction between "fidelity of training model" and "first versus second attempt" scores.

Conclusions

There was no added benefit from training on a costly virtual reality model with respect to transfer of FOI skills to intraoperative patient care. Second attempts in both groups were significantly better than first attempts. Low-fidelity models for FOI training outside the operating room are an alternative for programs with budgetary constraints.
Involvement of β3-Adrenoceptor in Altered β-Adrenergic Response in Senescent Heart
Authors: Birenbaum Aurélie , Tesse Angela , Loyer Xavier , Michelet Pierre , Andriantsitohaina Ramaroson , Heymes Christophe , Riou Bruno , Amour Julien
Published: November 2008

Background

In senescent heart, beta-adrenergic response is altered in parallel with beta1- and beta2-adrenoceptor down-regulation. A negative inotropic effect of beta3-adrenoceptor could be involved. In this study, the authors tested the hypothesis that beta3-adrenoceptor plays a role in beta-adrenergic dysfunction in senescent heart.

Methods

beta-Adrenergic responses were investigated in vivo (echocardiography-dobutamine, electron paramagnetic resonance) and in vitro (isolated left ventricular papillary muscle, electron paramagnetic resonance) in young adult (3-month-old) and senescent (24-month-old) rats. Nitric oxide synthase (NOS) immunolabeling (confocal microscopy), nitric oxide production (electron paramagnetic resonance) and beta-adrenoceptor Western blots were performed in vitro. Data are mean percentages of baseline +/- SD.

Results

An impaired positive inotropic effect (isoproterenol) was confirmed in senescent hearts in vivo (117 +/- 23 vs. 162 +/- 16%; P < 0.05) and in vitro (127 +/- 10 vs. 179 +/- 15%; P < 0.05). In the young adult group, the positive inotropic effect was not significantly modified by the nonselective NOS inhibitor N-nitro-L-arginine methylester (L-NAME; 183 +/- 19%), the selective NOS1 inhibitor vinyl-L-N-5(1-imino-3-butenyl)-L-ornithine (L-VNIO; 172 +/- 13%), or the selective NOS2 inhibitor 1400W (183 +/- 19%). In the senescent group, in parallel with beta3-adrenoceptor up-regulation and increased nitric oxide production, the positive inotropic effect was partially restored by L-NAME (151 +/- 8%; P < 0.05) and L-VNIO (149 +/- 7%; P < 0.05) but not by 1400W (132 +/- 11%; not significant). The positive inotropic effect induced by dibutyryl-cyclic adenosine monophosphate was decreased in the senescent group with the specific beta3-adrenoceptor agonist BRL 37344 (167 +/- 10 vs. 142 +/- 10%; P < 0.05). NOS1 and NOS2 were significantly up-regulated in the senescent rat.

Conclusions

In senescent cardiomyopathy, beta3-adrenoceptor overexpression plays an important role in the altered beta-adrenergic response via induction of NOS1-nitric oxide.
Effect of Ischemia–Reperfusion on Renal Expression and Activity of N G-N G-Dimethylarginine Dimethylaminohydrolases
Authors: Volti Giovanni Li , Sorrenti Valeria , Acquaviva Rosaria , Murabito Paolo , Gullo Antonino , Barcellona Maria Luisa , Galvano Fabio , Rodella Luigi , Rezzani Rita , Vanella Luca , Tringali Giovanni , Caruso Massimo , Gazzolo Diego , Di Giacomo Claudia
Published: November 2008

Background

Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) is an endogenous inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase. It is degraded by the enzyme dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase (DDAH).

Methods

Rats (n = 50) underwent to 45 min of renal ischemia followed by 30 min, 1 h, and 3 h of reperfusion. Expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase, inducible nitric oxide synthase, DDAH-1, DDAH-2, renal DDAH activity, plasma NO2(-)/NO3(-), and ADMA levels were evaluated.

Results

Inducible nitric oxide synthase expression increased, as confirmed by both plasma (11.89 +/- 1.02, 15.56 +/- 0.93, 11.82 +/- 0.86, 35.05 +/- 1.28, and 43.89 +/- 1.63 nmol/ml in the control, ischemic, 30-min, 1-h, and 3-h groups, respectively) and renal (4.81 +/- 0.4, 4.85 +/- 1, 9.42 +/- 0.7, 15.42 +/- 0.85, and 22.03 +/- 1.11 nmol/mg protein) formations of NO2(-)/NO3(-). DDAH-1 expression decreased after reperfusion, whereas DDAH-2 increased after 30 min, returning to basal levels after 3 h. Total DDAH activity was reduced during all times of reperfusion. Both plasma (0.41 +/- 0.03, 0.43 +/- 0.05, 0.62 +/- 0.02, 0.71 +/- 0.02, and 0.41 +/- 0.01 nmol/ml in the control, ischemic, 30-min, 1-h, and 3-h groups, respectively) and renal (1.51 +/- 0.01, 1.5 +/- 0.01, 1.53 +/- 0.01, 2.52 +/- 0.04, and 4.48 +/- 0.03 nmol/mg protein in the control, ischemic, 30-min, 1-h, and 3-h groups, respectively) concentrations of ADMA increased.

Conclusions

Results suggest that ischemia-reperfusion injury leads to reduced DDAH activity and modification of different DDAH isoform expression, thus leading to increased ADMA levels, which may lead to increased cardiovascular risk.
Tariquidar, a Selective P-glycoprotein Inhibitor, Does Not Potentiate Loperamide’s Opioid Brain Effects in Humans despite Full Inhibition of Lymphocyte P-glycoprotein
Authors: Kurnik Daniel , Sofowora Gbenga G. , Donahue John P. , Nair Usha B. , Wilkinson Grant R. , Wood Alastair J. J. , Muszkat Mordechai
Published: November 2008

Background

Loperamide, a potent opioid, has been used as an in vivo probe to assess P-glycoprotein activity at the blood-brain barrier, because P-glycoprotein inhibition allows loperamide to cross the blood-brain barrier and exert its central opioid effects. In humans, studies with nonselective and moderately potent inhibitors resulted in mild opioid effects but were confounded by the concurrent inhibition of loperamide's metabolism. The authors studied the effect of the highly selective, potent P-glycoprotein inhibitor tariquidar on loperamide's central opioid effects.

Methods

In a randomized, double-blind, crossover study, nine healthy subjects received on 2 study days oral loperamide (32 mg) followed by an intravenous infusion of either tariquidar (150 mg) or placebo. Central opioid effects (pupil diameter, sedation) were measured for 12 h, and blood samples were drawn up to 48 h after drug administration to determine plasma loperamide concentrations and ex vivo P-glycoprotein activity in T lymphocytes. Values for pupil diameter and loperamide concentrations were plotted over time, and the areas under the curves on the tariquidar and placebo study day were compared within each subject.

Results

Tariquidar did not significantly affect loperamide's central effects (median reduction in pupil diameter area under the curve, 6.9% [interquartile range, -1.4 to 12.1%]; P = 0.11) or plasma loperamide concentrations (P = 0.12) but profoundly inhibited P-glycoprotein in lymphocytes by 93.7% (95% confidence interval, 92.0-95.3%).

Conclusion

These results suggest that despite full inhibition of lymphocyte P-glycoprotein, the selective P-glycoprotein inhibitor tariquidar does not potentiate loperamide's opioid brain effects in humans.
Thoracic Epidural Analgesia with Low Concentration of Bupivacaine Induces Thoracic and Lumbar Sympathetic Block
Authors: Freise Hendrik , Meissner Andreas , Lauer Stefan , Ellger Björn , Radke Robert , Bruewer Mathias , Brodner Gerd , Van Aken Hugo K. , Sielenkämper Andreas W. , Fischer Lars G.
Published: November 2008

Background

Clinical benefits of thoracic epidural anesthesia (TEA) are partly ascribed to thoracic sympathetic block. However, data regarding sympathetic activity during TEA are scarce and contradictory. This prospective, randomized, double-blind study evaluated the segmental propagation of sympathetic block after low-concentration, high-volume TEA using digital thermography.

Methods

Twenty-four patients were included in the study. Thoracic epidural catheters were placed at a median insertion level of T8-T9. Patients were accommodated for 20 min to the room temperature of 23 degrees +/- 0.3 degrees C. Skin temperature was recorded by digital thermography. After baseline measurement of heart rate, arterial pressure, and core body and skin temperature, 10 ml saline (control group) or 10 ml bupivacaine, 0.25% (TEA group), respectively, was administered epidurally. Five minutes (t5) and 20 min (t20) after baseline measurements, hemodynamic parameters and core body temperature were again measured, and sensory block was identified by loss of cold-warm discrimination. In the thumb, the toe, and each thoracic dermatome, difference from baseline temperature was calculated at t5 and t20. Data were analyzed by Mann-Whitney U test.

Results

Baseline characteristics did not differ among groups. Median spread of sensory block at t20 was T5-L5. At both t5 and t20, skin temperature decreased more in the control group than in the TEA group in all thoracic dermatomes (P < 0.05). Toe temperature increased in the TEA group compared with the control group (P < 0.05), whereas thumb temperature remained unchanged.

Conclusion

TEA with 10 ml bupivacaine, 0.25%, induced thoracic and lumbar sympathetic block that precedes and exceeds sensory block. Caudal limit of sympathetic block could not be demonstrated in this study.
Desmopressin Reduces Transfusion Needs after Surgery
Authors: Crescenzi Giuseppe , Landoni Giovanni , Biondi-Zoccai Giuseppe , Pappalardo Federico , Nuzzi Massimiliano , Bignami Elena , Fochi Oliviero , Maj Giulia , Calabrò Maria Grazia , Ranucci Marco , Zangrillo Alberto
Published: November 2008

Background

Perioperative pathologic microvascular bleeding is associated with increased morbidity and mortality and could be reduced by hemostatic drugs. At the same time, safety concerns regarding existing hemostatic agents include excess mortality. Numerous trials investigating desmopressin have lacked power to detect a beneficial effect on transfusion of blood products. The authors performed a meta-analysis of 38 randomized, placebo-controlled trials (2,488 patients) investigating desmopressin in surgery and indicating at least perioperative blood loss or transfusion of blood products.

Methods

Pertinent studies were searched in BioMed Central, CENTRAL, and PubMed (updated May 1, 2008). Further hand or computerized searches involved recent (2003-2008) conference proceedings.

Results

In most of the included studies, 0.3 microg/kg desmopressin was used prophylactically over a 15- to 30-min period. In comparison with placebo, desmopressin was associated with reduced requirements of blood product transfusion (standardized mean difference = -0.29 [-0.52 to -0.06] units per patient; P = 0.01), which were more pronounced in the subgroup of noncardiac surgery and were without a statistically significant increase in thromboembolic adverse events (57/1,002 = 5.7% in the desmopressin group vs. 45/979 = 4.6% in the placebo group; P = 0.3).

Conclusions

Desmopressin slightly reduced blood loss (almost 80 ml per patient) and transfusion requirements (almost 0.3 units per patient) in surgical patients, without reduction in the proportion of patients who received transfusions. This meta-analysis suggests the importance of further large, randomized controlled studies using desmopressin in patients with or at risk of perioperative pathologic microvascular bleeding.
Phase 2, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled, Dose-Response Trial of Intravenous Adenosine for Perioperative Analgesia
Authors: Habib Ashraf S. , Minkowitz Harold , Osborn Timothy , Ogunnaike Babatunde , Candiotti Keith , Viscusi Eugene , Gu Jiezhun , Creed Mary R. , Gan Tong J.
Published: November 2008

Background

Adenosine regulates pain transmission by actions at spinal, supraspinal, and peripheral sites. A few studies have suggested that administration of adenosine might be associated with anesthetic- and analgesic-sparing effects. The primary aim of this multicenter study was to determine the dose-response profile of adenosine with respect to perioperative analgesia.

Methods

Women undergoing major gynecologic surgery were enrolled. Subjects were randomly assigned to receive one of four doses of adenosine (25, 50, 100, or 200 microg x kg x min) or matching placebo. A dose-escalation cohort approach was followed. Study drug administration was started in the operating room at the time of skin incision and discontinued at the end of surgery. The anesthetic technique was standardized. Postoperative analgesia was provided with a standardized morphine patient-controlled analgesia system. Data were collected in the hospital and after discharge daily through postoperative day 7.

Results

A total of 166 subjects received treatment with study drug: 125 received adenosine and 41 received placebo. Except for height, there were no differences between treatment groups with respect to demographic or baseline characteristics. Cumulative opioid use during the initial 24-h period after extubation was not significantly different between treatment groups. There were also no differences between treatment groups with respect to cumulative anesthetic use, intraoperative opioid requirements, pain scores, sedation, time to readiness for discharge from the postanesthesia care unit, time to readiness for discharge from the hospital, opioid-related symptom distress scores, patient satisfaction with pain control, and occurrence of adverse events.

Conclusions

There were no differences between placebo and adenosine with respect to efficacy and safety for perioperative analgesia.
Blood Transfusion Promotes Cancer Progression: A Critical Role for Aged Erythrocytes
Authors: Atzil Shir , Arad Michal , Glasner Ariella , Abiri Noa , Avraham Roi , Greenfeld Keren , Rosenne Ella , Beilin Benzion , Ben-Eliyahu Shamgar
Published: November 2008

Background

In cancer patients, allogeneic blood transfusion is associated with poorer prognosis, but the independent effect of the transfusion is controversial. Moreover, mediating mechanisms underlying the alleged cancer-promoting effects of blood transfusion are unknown, including the involvement of donors' leukocytes, erythrocytes, and soluble factors.

Method

Two syngeneic tumor models were used in Fischer 344 rats, the MADB106 mammary adenocarcinoma and the CRNK-16 leukemia. Outcomes included host ability to clear circulating cancer cells, and host survival rates. The independent impact of blood transfusion was assessed, and potential deleterious characteristics of the transfusion were studied, including blood storage duration; the role of erythrocytes, leukocyte, and soluble factors; and the kinetics of the effects.

Results

Blood transfusion was found to be an independent and significant risk factor for cancer progression in both models, causing up to a fourfold increase in lung tumor retention and doubling mortality rates. Blood storage time was the critical determinant of these deleterious effects, regardless of whether the transfused blood was allogeneic or autogenic. Surprisingly, aged erythrocytes (9 days and older), rather than leukocytes or soluble factors, mediated the effects, which occurred in both operated and nonoperated animals. The effects of erythrocytes transfusion in the MADB106 model emerged immediately and dissipated within 24 h.

Conclusions

In rats, transfusion of fresh blood is less harmful than transfusion of stored blood in the context of progressing malignancies. Further studies should address mediating mechanisms through which erythrocytes' storage duration can impact the rate of complications while treating malignant diseases and potentially other pathologies.
Effects of Supervision by Attending Anesthesiologists on Complications of Emergency Tracheal Intubation
Authors: Schmidt Ulrich H. , Kumwilaisak Kanya , Bittner Edward , George Edward , Hess Dean
Published: November 2008

Background

Emergent intubation is associated with a high complication rate. These intubations are often performed by resident physicians in teaching hospitals. The authors evaluated whether supervision by an anesthesia-trained intensivist decreases complications of emergent intubations.

Methods

The authors performed a prospective cohort study in an Academic Tertiary Care Hospital. They enrolled 322 consecutive patients who required emergent intubation between November 1, 2006, and April 15, 2008. Emergency intubations are performed by anesthesia residents during their surgical intensive care unit rotation. An attending anesthesiologist was assigned to supervise these intubations at predetermined periods. A respiratory therapist assisted with airway management and ventilation. Information related to the intubation, detailing patient demographics, indication for intubation, attending anesthesiologist presence, medications used, and immediate complications, was recorded. Disposition and duration of mechanical ventilation were also recorded.

Results

There were no differences in demographics, clinical characteristics, or illness severity among patients intubated with and without attending supervision. Attending physician supervision was associated with a significant decrease in complications (6.1% vs. 21.7%; P = 0.0001). There was no difference in ventilator-free days or 30-day mortality.

Conclusion

Supervision by an attending anesthesiologist was associated with a decreased incidence of complications during emergent intubations.
Sympathetic Nervous System
Authors: Neukirchen Martin , Kienbaum Peter , Warner David S. , Warner Mark A.
Published: November 2008

For more than 100 yr, scientists have studied the sympathetic nervous system and its cardiovascular control mechanisms. Muscle sympathetic activity is the most important direct and rapidly responding variable for evaluation of sympathetic neural outflow. Because of its significance in response to environmental challenges and its role in cardiovascular control, great attention has been paid to the sympathetic nervous system in both health and disease and, more recently, also during general anesthesia. In fact, general anesthesia can also be considered as an investigational tool to assess mechanisms of cardiovascular regulation. This review evaluates different methods for determination of sympathetic nervous system activity and describes its role in human neurohumoral circulatory control. Furthermore, the effects of general anesthesia on sympathetic nervous system activity and their relevance for clinical anesthesia are discussed.
The evolution of water balance inGlossina(Diptera: Glossinidae): correlations with climate
Authors: Kleynhans Elsje , Terblanche John S
Published: November 2008

The water balance of tsetse flies (Diptera: Glossinidae) has significant implications for understanding biogeography and climate change responses in these African disease vectors. Although moisture is important for tsetse population dynamics, evolutionary responses ofGlossinawater balance to climate have been relatively poorly explored and earlier studies may have been confounded by several factors. Here, using a physiological and GIS climate database, we investigate potential interspecific relationships between traits of water balance and climate. We do so in conventional and phylogenetically independent approaches for both adults and pupae. Results showed that water loss rates (WLR) were significantly positively related to precipitation in pupae even after phylogenetic adjustment. Adults showed no physiology–climate correlations. Ancestral trait reconstruction suggests that a reduction in WLR and increased size probably evolved from an intermediate ancestral state and may have facilitated survival in xeric environments. The results of this study therefore suggest an important role for water balance physiology of pupae in determining interspecific variation and lend support to conclusions reached by early studies of tsetse physiology.
Closed timelike curves make quantum and classical computing equivalent
Authors: Aaronson Scott , Watrous John
Published: November 2008

While closed timelike curves (CTCs) are not known to exist, studying their consequences has led to non-trivial insights into general relativity, quantum information and other areas. In this paper, we show that, if CTCs existed, quantum computers would be no more powerful than classical computers: both would have the (extremely large) power of the complexity class polynomial space (), consisting of all problems solvable by a conventional computer using a polynomial amount of memory. This solves an open problem proposed by one of us in 2005, and gives an essentially complete understanding of computational complexity in the presence of CTCs. Following the work of Deutsch, we treat a CTC as simply a region of spacetime where a ‘causal consistency’ condition is imposed, meaning that nature has to produce a (probabilistic or quantum) fixed point of some evolution operator. Our conclusion is then a consequence of the following theorem: given any quantum circuit (not necessarily unitary), a fixed point of the circuit can be (implicitly) computed in. This theorem might have independent applications in quantum information.
DNA barcoding insect–host plant associations
Authors: Jurado-Rivera José A , Vogler Alfried P , Reid Chris A.M , Petitpierre Eduard , Gómez-Zurita Jesús
Published: November 2008

Short-sequence fragments (‘DNA barcodes’) used widely for plant identification and inventorying remain to be applied to complex biological problems. Host–herbivore interactions are fundamental to coevolutionary relationships of a large proportion of species on the Earth, but their study is frequently hampered by limited or unreliable host records. Here we demonstrate that DNA barcodes can greatly improve this situation as they (i) provide a secure identification of host plant species and (ii) establish the authenticity of the trophic association. Host plants of leaf beetles (subfamily Chrysomelinae) from Australia were identified using the chloroplast
trnL
(UAA) intron as barcode amplified from beetle DNA extracts. Sequence similarity and phylogenetic analyses provided precise identifications of each host species at tribal, generic and specific levels, depending on the available database coverage in various plant lineages. The 76 species of Chrysomelinae included—more than 10 per cent of the known Australian fauna—feed on 13 plant families, with preference for Australian radiations of Myrtaceae (eucalypts) and Fabaceae (acacias). Phylogenetic analysis of beetles shows general conservation of host association but with rare host shifts between distant plant lineages, including a few cases where barcodes supported two phylogenetically distant host plants. The study demonstrates that plant barcoding is already feasible with the current publicly available data. By sequencing plant barcodes directly from DNA extractions made from herbivorous beetles, strong physical evidence for the host association is provided. Thus, molecular identification using short DNA fragments brings together the detection of species and the analysis of their interactions.
Evolutionary position of breviate amoebae and the primary eukaryote divergence
Authors: A. Minge Marianne , Silberman Jeffrey D , Orr Russell J.S , Cavalier-Smith Thomas , Shalchian-Tabrizi Kamran , Burki Fabien , Skjæveland Åsmund , Jakobsen Kjetill S
Published: November 2008

Integration of ultrastructural and molecular sequence data has revealed six supergroups of eukaryote organisms (excavates, Rhizaria, chromalveolates, Plantae, Amoebozoa and opisthokonts), and the root of the eukaryote evolutionary tree is suggested to lie between unikonts (Amoebozoa, opisthokonts) and bikonts (the other supergroups). However, some smaller lineages remain of uncertain affinity. One of these unassigned taxa is the anaerobic, free-living, amoeboid flagellate
Breviata anathema
, which is of key significance as it is unclear whether it is a unikont (i.e. possibly the deepest branching amoebozoan) or a bikont. To establish its evolutionary position, we sequenced thousands of
Breviata
genes and calculated trees using 78 protein sequences. Our trees and specific substitutions in the 18S RNA sequence indicate that
Breviata
is related to other Amoebozoa, thereby significantly increasing the cellular diversity of this phylum and establishing
Breviata
as a deep-branching unikont. We discuss the implications of these results for the ancestral state of Amoebozoa and eukaryotes generally, demonstrating that phylogenomics of phylogenetically ‘nomadic’ species can elucidate key questions in eukaryote evolution. Furthermore, mitochondrial genes among the
Breviata
ESTs demonstrate that
Breviata
probably contains a modified anaerobic mitochondrion. With these findings, remnants of mitochondria have been detected in all putatively deep-branching amitochondriate organisms.
Analysis of intramuscular electromyogram signals
Authors: Merletti Roberto , Farina Dario
Published: November 2008

Intramuscular electromyographic (EMG) signals are detected with needles or wires inserted into muscles. With respect to non-invasive techniques, intramuscular electromyography has high selectivity for individual motor unit action potentials and is thus used to measure motor unit activity. Decomposition of intramuscular signals into individual motor unit action potentials consists in detection and classification, usually followed by separation of superimposed action potentials. Although intramuscular EMG signal decomposition is the primary tool for physiological investigations of motor unit properties, it is rarely applied in clinical routine, because of the need for human interaction and the difficulty in interpreting the quantitative data provided by EMG signal decomposition to support clinical decisions. The current clinical use of intramuscular EMG signals relates to the diagnosis of myopathies, of diseases of the α-motor neuron and of the neuromuscular junction through the analysis of the interference signal or of the shape of some motor unit action potentials, usually without a full decomposition of the signal.