bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of stocked Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) on habitat use by the wild population
Authors: Laffaille P.
Published: October 2010

Laffaille P. Impact of stocked Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) on habitat use by the wild population.  Ecology of Freshwater Fish 2011: 20: 67–73. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Abstract –  We investigated the summer habitat occupied by populations of young‐of‐the‐year wild and stocked (farmed populations released into the native range) Atlantic salmon under allopatric and sympatric conditions. Under allopatric conditions, farmed and wild salmon occupied habitats with the same characteristics. The salmon preferentially occupied the riffle areas. However, under sympatric conditions, the fish occupied meso‐ and micro‐habitats with different characteristics. Wild salmon avoided habitats used by farmed salmon and preferred glide areas with considerable vegetation cover. This study suggests that differences in the pattern of habitats used by young Atlantic salmon were both size‐ and origin‐dependent and may result from intra‐species competition between farmed and wild populations. Given that stocking with farmed Atlantic salmon is carried out intensively to enhance recreational angling or to conserve salmon populations, this study warns that this can have a negative impact on the extant wild Atlantic salmon population.
The spectre of past spectral conditions: colour plasticity, crypsis and predation risk in freshwater sculpin from newly deglaciated streams
Authors: Whiteley A. R. , Bergstrom C. A. , Linderoth T. , Tallmon D. A.
Published: October 2010

Whiteley AR, Bergstrom CA, Linderoth T, Tallmon DA. The spectre of past spectral conditions: colour plasticity, crypsis, and predation risk in freshwater sculpin from newly deglaciated streams. Ecology of Freshwater Fish 2011: 20: 80–91. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Abstract –  Coastrange sculpin (Cottus aleuticus) have colonised recently deglaciated streams of Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska, USA, within the last 200 years. Highly cryptic colouration across a marked gradient of stream substrate colours within Glacier Bay could result from physiological (rapid) or morphological (slower) colour change. Laboratory experiments revealed that physiological colour plasticity occurred on the order of minutes, with significant variation in the degree of colour change among individuals and between populations. In contrast, morphological colour plasticity occurred on the order of weeks to months. Experimentally manipulated spectral conditions influenced the magnitude and variance of subsequent physiological colour plasticity. In‐stream predation trials revealed significantly more predation attempts on higher background contrast sculpin models, providing evidence that background colour matching has strong fitness consequences. Colour plasticity with apparent fitness consequences occurs at multiple interacting time scales in coastrange sculpin and may play an important role in the colonisation of recently deglaciated streams.
RETRACTED: Melatonin attenuates apoptotic liver damage in fulminant hepatic failure induced by the rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus
Authors: Tuñón María J. , Miguel Beatriz San , Crespo Irene , Jorquera Francisco , Santamaría Eva , Alvarez Marcelino , Prieto Jesús , González‐Gallego Javier
Published: October 2010

Abstract:  Hepatocyte apoptosis plays an important role in the development of fulminant hepatic failure (FHF). The objective of this study was to investigate the antiapoptotic effect of melatonin in an animal model of FHF of viral origin induced by the rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV). Rabbits were experimentally infected with 2 × 104 hemagglutination units of a RHDV isolate and received melatonin at two concentrations of 10 and 20 mg/kg at 0, 12, and 24 hr postinfection. RHDV infection induced liver apoptosis, with increased caspase‐3 immunoexpression and activity and poly(ADP‐ribose)polymerase‐1 (PARP‐1) proteolysis. These effects were attenuated by melatonin in a concentration‐dependent manner. Antia‐poptotic effects of melatonin were related to a reduced expression of Bax and cytosolic cytochrome c release, increased expression of Bcl‐2 and Bcl‐xL, and inhibition of caspase‐9 activity. Increased thiobarbituric reactive acid substances concentration and oxidized‐to‐reduced glutathione ratio were significantly prevented by melatonin administration. Melatonin treatment also resulted in a reduction in caspase‐8 activity, tumor necrosis factor receptor‐1 (TNF‐R1) expression, and phosphorylated Janus kinase (JNK) expression, and increased expression of cellular FLICE‐inhibitory protein (c‐FLIP). Our findings show that inhibition of apoptotic mechanisms contributes to the beneficial effects of melatonin in rabbits with experimental infection by RHDV and supports a potential hepatoprotective role of melatonin in FHF.
Oral melatonin attenuates lung inflammation and airway hyperreactivity induced by inhalation of aerosolized pancreatic fluid in rats
Authors: Chen Chao F. , Wang David , Reiter Russel J. , Yeh Diana Y.
Published: October 2010

Abstract:  Melatonin is a free radical scavenger with potent antioxidant properties and immunomodulatory effects. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of orally administered melatonin in a pancreatic fluid (PF)‐induced lung inflammation and airway hyperreactivity model. Aerosolized PF was introduced into airways to induce inflammation in rats. Animals were randomized into three experimental groups: sham treated; PF treated (200 μL/kg); and PF with melatonin (10 mg/kg) pretreatment. Airway reactivity to methacholine, airflow and airway resistance, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cellular differential, the tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) level, lavage nitric oxide, hydroxyl radical, and lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) were compared among groups. mRNA expressions of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and TNFα in lung tissues were determined by real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Protein expressions of iNOS and nitrotyrosine and lung tissue myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity were determined using an ELISA assay. Oral melatonin treatment indicated anti‐inflammatory efficacy as evidenced by decreased methacholine sensitivity by 24% and airway obstruction by 28%, reduction in BAL eosinophil (P < 0.01) and neutrophil counts (P < 0.05), LDH (P < 0.05), and TNFα concentrations (P < 0.05) when compared to levels in sham‐treated rats. Melatonin‐treated animals also had reduced nitric oxide and hydroxyl radical concentrations (P < 0.05) in lavage fluid. Oral melatonin significantly reduced mRNA and protein expression of iNOS (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively), TNFα (P < 0.05), nitrotyrosine (P < 0.05), and MPO activity (P < 0.05) in lung tissues when compared with the sham‐treated animals. These results suggest that oral treatment with melatonin had a beneficial effect on PF‐induced obstructive ventilatory insufficiency by attenuating nitrosative and oxidative stress.
Possible roles of bilirubin and breast milk in protection against retinopathy of prematurity
Authors: Kao Joanna S , Dawson Jeffrey D , Murray Jeffrey C , Dagle John M , Berends Susan K , Gillen Susan B , Bell Edward F
Published: October 2010

Aim:  To explore the association of serum bilirubin level and breast milk feeding with retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in preterm infants.

Methods:  We conducted a case–control study to examine the independent and combined effects of serum bilirubin and breast milk feeding on ROP risk in infants <32 weeks gestation or with birth weight <1500 g. Cases (66 infants with ROP) were matched with controls (66 infants without ROP) based on factors known to affect ROP risk.

Results:  When analysed using the paired t‐test, the peak bilirubin levels were lower in ROP cases than in controls (mean 7.2 vs. 7.9 mg/dL; p = 0.045). Using conditional logistic regression, we found a negative association between highest serum bilirubin level and risk of ROP (OR = 0.82 per 1‐mg/dL change in bilirubin; p = 0.06). There was no significant association between breast milk feeding and risk of ROP.

Conclusion:  Bilirubin may help to protect preterm infants against ROP.
Whatever happened to Miss Bebb?Bebb v The Law Societyand women’s legal history
Authors: Auchmuty Rosemary
Published: October 2010

Gwyneth Bebb gave her name to a landmark case in the campaign to open the legal profession to women. In spite of this achievement, which is often mentioned but rarely analysed, historical accounts have given little or no attention to the woman or the campaign of which she was part; and what happened to her then and later has remained shrouded in mystery. The article finds that her disappearance was due in part to the circumstances of her life, outlined here, but mainly to the tendency of institutional histories, if they acknowledge women’s contribution at all, to present it as a simple (though discontinuous) tale of progress, thereby masking continuing prejudice and inequality. The article argues that women’s lives need to be properly examined to produce a more complete and truthful explanation of how things were, and how they are now.
Glacial Silicic Acid Concentrations in the Southern Ocean
Authors: Ellwood Michael J. , Wille Martin , Maher William
Published: October 2010

Silicon Leakage

Silicon is a major structural component of many marine organisms, whose chemistry is affected by oceanic nutrient distributions. To constrain nutrient changes since the last glacial period,

Ellwood
et al.

(p.
1088
, published online 21 October) measured the isotopic compositions of silicon obtained from the skeletons of deep-sea sponges found in deep cores from the Atlantic and Pacific sectors of the Southern Ocean and compared them to the silicon signatures in the skeletons of modern sponges. The results indicate that nutrient redistribution, related to iron fertilization from dust deposition, boosted the growth of organisms that transferred silicon to mid-latitudes during the last glacial period.
Get a kick out of this: the spectrum of knee extensor mechanism injuries
Authors: Tuong Betty , White Jeremy , Louis Luck , Cairns Robyn , Andrews Gordon , Forster Bruce B
Published: October 2010

At the end of this article, the reader should be able to (1) recognise normal anatomy and anatomical variants of the extensor mechanism of the knee on various imaging modalities, including plain film, ultrasound and MRI; (2) diagnose a broad spectrum of EM injuries in adult and paediatric patients including patellar and quadriceps tendinopathy, Osgood–Schlatter disease, Sindig–Larsen–Johansson syndrome, chondromalacia patellae and patellar fractures on various imaging modalities; and (3) appreciate the important role of imaging in the diagnosis of musculoskeletal injuries.
The cure of ageing: vitamin D—magic or myth?
Authors: Chu Michael P , Alagiakrishnan Kannayiram , Sadowski Cheryl
Published: October 2010

Vitamin D was initially thought only to function in calcium homeostasis. However, it has multiple roles in human health, including neuromuscular and immune modulation. Recently, its deficiency is increasingly implicated in many diseases. This discovery has led both popular culture and research to find ways that vitamin D can either treat or prevent many diseases. Since vitamin D not only affects the expression of many genes, but also has intra-individual pharmacokinetic variation, a simplistic cause and effect between vitamin D deficiency and illnesses should not be expected. Older adults pose a challenge not only because diseases become more prevalent with ageing, but they also are often complicated with other comorbidities. This article reviews the link of vitamin D deficiency and the associated medical conditions in middle aged and older adults. It also examines the variability in testing vitamin D values and evaluates dosing recommendations based on current evidence.
Covering their butts: responses to the cigarette litter problem
Authors: Smith Elizabeth A , McDaniel Patricia A
Published: October 2010

Background

Cigarette butt litter is a potential target of tobacco control. In addition to its toxicity and non-biodegradability, it can justify environmental regulation and policies that raise the price of tobacco and further denormalise its use. This paper examines how the tobacco industry has managed the cigarette butt litter issue and how the issue has been covered in the media.

Methods

We searched the Legacy Tobacco Documents Library (http://legacy.library.ucsf.edu/) using a snowball strategy. We analysed data from approximately 700 documents, dated 1959–2006, using an interpretive approach. We also searched two newspaper databases, Lexis/Nexis and Newsbank, and found 406 relevant articles, dated 1982–2009 which we analysed quantitatively and qualitatively.

Results

The tobacco industry monitored and developed strategies for dealing with the cigarette litter issue because it affected the social acceptability of smoking, created the potential for alliances between tobacco control and environmental advocates, and created a target for regulation. The industry developed anti-litter programs with Keep America Beautiful (KAB) and similar organisations. Media coverage focused on industry-acceptable solutions, such as volunteer clean-ups and installation of ashtrays; stories that mentioned KAB were also more frequently positive towards the tobacco industry. Among alternative approaches, clean outdoor air (COA) laws received the most media attention.

Conclusions

Cigarette litter, like secondhand smoke, is the result of smoker behaviour and affects nonsmokers. The tobacco industry has tried and failed to mitigate the impact of cigarette litter. Tobacco control advocates should explore alliances with environmental groups and propose policy options that hold the industry accountable for cigarette waste.
The parabasisphenoid complex in Mesozoic turtles and the evolution of the testudinate basicranium
Authors: Sterli Juliana , Müller Johannes , Anquetin Jérémy , Hilger André
Published: October 2010

During the early development of turtles and other amniotes, the parabasisphenoid, or basisphenoid s.l., is formed by at least two centers of ossification: the endochondral basisphenoid s.s. and the dermal parasphenoid. This fusion is usually so dramatic that the two elements cannot be distinguished from each other in the adult stage. Here, we describe the basicranium of two species of Mesozoic turtles from Europe, Plesiochelys etalloni and Pleurosternon bullockii , partly using micro-CT (computer tomography) scans, and show that in both taxa para- and basisphenoid remain distinguishable throughout life. We also identify the extent that each of the two elements has contributed to the formation of the braincase floor. Because the structure of the parabasisphenoid determines the course of the internal carotid artery into the skull, our findings allow us to discuss the early evolution of the carotid pattern and the turtle basicranium in new detail. By surveying the main patterns of carotid circulation in extinct and extant turtles, we bring new evidence to the idea that it was largely the ossification of the parasphenoid that, along with the closure of the interpterygoid vacuity and the posterior extension of the pterygoids, shaped the internal carotid patterns as seen in modern turtles.
Sharp cone testing of creep properties of frozen sand
Authors: Ladanyi B. , Sgaoula J.
Published: October 2010

The paper describes a new field testing method, called the sharp cone test, intended for in situ determination of creep properties of frozen soils and ice. The method consists of pushing a smooth, low-angle, cone into a predrilled conical portion of a borehole. The creep properties of the material are determined by applying a constant axial load on the cone, and by observing its time-dependent axial displacement as it penetrates and enlarges the conical hole. The paper describes the test, gives its theoretical interpretation, and shows the results of a series of tests carried out in a frozen sand. Key words : frozen soil, ice, sharp cone, field testing, creep properties.
Behaviour of a semi-infinite beam in a creeping medium
Authors: Rajani B. , Morgenstern N.
Published: October 2010

The behaviour of a pipeline embedded in a creeping medium is examined. Approximate solutions for a beam in a creeping foundation are developed, and characteristic nondimensional load–displacement relationships are presented. A comparison of these approximate solutions provides upper and lower bound solutions that are consistent with finite element analyses. Furthermore, the simplified solutions can be readily adapted for analyzing the uplift behaviour of shallow pipelines. These solutions can also be used to analyze the creeping behaviour of laterally loaded piles. The results are presented in the form of nondimensional charts that permit hand calculations and rapid verification of the structural design of the pipelines and piles. An approximate three-dimensional solution that accounts for embedmentis proposed. Key words : creeping behaviour of pipelines, creeping foundation, laterally loaded pile.
Influence of amorphous silica and iron hydroxide on interparticle action and soil surface properties
Authors: Yong R. N. , Mohamed A. M. O. , Wang B. W.
Published: October 2010

The study of the physicochemical properties of pure amorphous materials (complexes) consisting of Fe2O3 and SiO2 in various proportions indicates that the amorphous complexes will exhibit different properties and characteristics depending on the proportions of Fe2O3 and SiO2. Addition of the amorphous complexes with illitic clay studied shows that the properties of the clay admixture will also vary according to the properties of the amorphous complex, albeit to a lesser degree. The properties and behaviour observed for the amorphous complexes and the clay admixtures can be linked directly to the large specific surface area and high surface charge of the amorphous complexes. The contribution of amorphous complexes to the clay – amorphous complex mixtures (clay admixtures) is twofold: firstly, by the amount of amorphous complex in the clay admixture, and secondly by the composition of the amorphous complex used. The contribution from the amorphous complex is in two forms: water-holding capacity and bonding action. The presence of pH-dependent surface charges associated with the amorphous complexes makes the physicochemical properties and behaviour of the clay admixtures (e.g., liquid limits and zeta potential) sensitive to the pH environment. Coating of amorphous colloids onto clay particle surfaces, shown by scanning electron microscopy, appears to, be enhanced by a decrease in pH of the system, indicating that the enhancement is likely due to the increased electrostatic attraction resulting from the increased amounts of positive charges on the amorphous colloids. Key words : amorphous materials, mass ratio, zeta potential, Bingham yield stress, clay admixtures, hydrogen bonding, specific surface area, cation exchange capacity, anion exchange capacity, fabric and soil structure.
A strain-based design method for the collapse limit state of reinforced soil walls or slopes
Authors: Lo S-C. R. , Xu D-W.
Published: October 2010

A new design methodology was developed to predict the collapse of reinforced soil walls or slopes caused by failure of the reinforcing elements. The rupture surface was modelled by a generalized log spiral selected by numerical optimization, and the conventional assumption of rigid–plastic deformation at wall collapse was not made. The limit equilibrium equations were established by examining the equilibrium of slices of soil parallel to the reinforcing elements. A strain-based criterion was used to model the initiation of wall collapse by breakage of reinforcement. The tensile forces in the reinforcing elements were determined based on, approximately, strain compatibility along the rupture surface. The proposed method can model reinforcement with nonlinear load extension response that depends on embedment, non-uniform distribution of reinforcement, and dilatancy of soil. An expedient numerical scheme for performing the analysis is presented to enable the routine use of the analysis in a design office. The proposed method was validated by comparing the predictions with published observations and finite element simulation of a reinforced soil wall. Key words : collapse, kinematics, limit equilibrium, numerical optimization, reinforced soil, strain.
Exact probabilistic solution of two-parameter bearing capacity for shallow foundations
Authors: Easa Said M.
Published: October 2010

An exact probabilistic solution of the ultimate bearing capacity of cohesionless soil for shallow strip foundations is presented. The solution incorporates two random variables: effective friction angle [Formula: see text] and soil unit weight γ. This solution is an extension of a previous solution in which only [Formula: see text] is considered as a random variable. The exact solution is verified using Monte Carlo simulation and the sensitivity of the solution to the coefficient of variation of the soil unit weight is examined. Key words : probability, reliability, bearing capacity, shallow strip foundations, friction angle, soil unit weight.
A note on the optimal lower bound pull-out capacity of inclined strip anchors in sand
Authors: Singh D. N. , Basudhar P. K.
Published: October 2010

A generalized procedure based on finite elements and nonlinear programming has been presented in this paper for finding the optimal lower bound pull-out capacity of inclined strip anchors in sands. The results obtained are compared with the values reported in the literature to validate the suggested method of analysis. The predicted values are found to be in excellent agreement with that of Meyerhof. Key words : limit analysis, lower bound, nonlinear programming, inclined anchors, uplift capacity.
Montelukast prevents the decrease of interleukin-10 and inhibits NF-κB activation in inflammatory airway of asthmatic guinea pigs
Authors: Wu Yuqing , Zhou Chenghua , Tao Jin , Li Shengnan
Published: October 2010

Interleukin (IL)-10 is an important immunoregulatory and anti-inflammatory cytokine, whereas nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of asthma. In the present study, the effects of montelukast on the level of IL-10 and on the activation of NF-κB in the inflammatory airway of asthmatic guinea pigs were investigated. Guinea pigs were sensitized by ovalbumin. Pulmonary inflammation was observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. The eosinophils in broncho-alveolar lavage fluid and blood were separated by density gradient centrifugation and counted under microscope. The level of IL-10 in broncho-alveolar lavage fluid was measured by enzyme-linked immunoadsorbent assay. Activation of NF-κB in lung tissues was inspected by immunohistochemistry. Montelukast at medium and high doses prevented the decrease of IL-10 in broncho-alveolar lavage fluid (n = 8, p < 0.01 vs. asthma model group), inhibited the activation of NF-κB in lung tissues (n = 8; medium dose, p < 0.05; high dose, p < 0.01; vs. asthma model group). There was a significantly negative correlation between the level of IL-10 and the activation of NF-κB in lung tissues (r = –0.488, p < 0.01). Montelukast reduced the severity of airway inflammation and the number of eosinophils in asthmatic guinea pigs. From all these findings we conclude that montelukast can prevent the decrease of IL-10 and inhibit the activation of NF-κB in inflammatory airway of asthmatic guinea pigs, which may be the new important mechanisms of montelukast’s anti-airway-inflammation effects in asthmatic guinea pigs.
Adenosine A1 receptor-mediated inhibition of myocardial norepinephrine release involves neither phospholipase C nor protein kinase C but does involve adenylyl cyclase
Authors: Schütte Frank , Burgdorf Christof , Richardt Gert , Kurz Thomas
Published: October 2010

Stimulation of adenosine A1 receptors in the heart exerts cardioprotective effects by inhibiting norepinephrine (NE) release from sympathetic nerve endings. The intraneuronal signal transduction triggered by presynaptic adenosine A1 receptors is still not completely understood. The objective of the present study was to determine whether phospholipase C (PLC), protein kinase C (PKC), and adenylyl cyclase (AC) are involved in the adenosine A1 receptor-mediated inhibition of endogenous (stimulation-induced) NE release in isolated Langendorff-perfused rat hearts as an approach to elucidate their role in the cardiovascular system. Activation of adenosine A1-receptors with 2-chloro-N6-cyclopentyladenosine (CCPA) decreased cardiac NE release by ~40%. Inhibition of PLC with 1-[6-[[(17b)-3-methoxyestra-1,3,5(10)-trien-17-yl]amino]hexyl]-1H-pyrrole-2,5-dione (U 73122) as well as inhibition of PKC with 2-[1-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)indol-3-yl]-3-(indol-3-yl)maleimide (GF 109203X) slightly but significantly decreased NE release; however, the suppressive effect of CCPA on NE release was not modulated by U 73122 or GF 109203X. Blockade of AC with 9-(tetrahydro-2′-furyl)adenine (SQ 22536) reversed the inhibitory effect of CCPA on sympathetic neurotransmitter release irrespective of whether PKC was pharmacologically activated by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate or was not activated, indicating a PKC-independent but AC-dependent mechanism. Direct stimulation of AC with forskolin increased NE release by ∼20%; an effect that was antagonized by either CCPA or SQ 22536. These data suggest that the adenosine A1 receptor-mediated inhibition of NE release does not involve PLC or PKC but does involve AC.
Implication of mitochondrial dysfunction and cell death in cold preservation – warm reperfusion-induced hepatocyte injury
Authors: Duval Marjolaine , Plin Catherine , Elimadi Aziz , Vallerand Diane , Tillement Jean-Paul , Morin Didier , Haddad Pierre S.
Published: October 2010

Cold ischemia – warm reperfusion (CI/WR) injury of liver transplantation involves hepatocyte cell death, the nature and underlying mechanisms of which remain unclear. Isolated hepatocytes and isolated perfused livers were used to determine the prevalence of necrosis and apoptosis as well as mitochondrial dysfunction. In isolated cells, propidium iodide and Hoechst 33342 staining showed a cold-storage, time-dependent increase in necrosis, whereas apoptosis was minimal even after 48 h of hypothermia. Nonetheless, a progressive loss of mitochondrial membrane potential was observed. Translocation of mitochondrial cytochrome c toward microsomes occurred within 24 h of CI/WR, with cytochrome c reaching the cytosol later. Mitochondria isolated from whole livers subjected to CI/WR also display reduced metabolic parameters and increased susceptibility to swelling. These events are associated with increased activity of major initiator (caspase 9) and effector (caspase 3) caspases. The results demonstrate that CI/WR induces mitochondrial dysfunction in isolated cells and in the whole organ; only in the latter is that sufficient to trigger the classical mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis. Our study also provides evidence for the involvement of endoplasmic reticulum stress in CI/WR hepatocyte injury. Combined protection of mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum may thus represent an innovative therapeutic avenue to enhance liver graft viability and functional integrity.
Trophic structure and spatial distribution of macrofaunas in the Hurlet and Index limestones (Carboniferous: upper Viséan and lower Serpukhovian) of Ayrshire, Scotland
Authors: Dean M. T. , Owen A. W. , Bowdler-Hicks A. , Akhurst M. C.
Published: October 2010

Synopsis

Explorative multivariate numerical analysis of British Geological Survey historical Biostratigraphy collections from the Carboniferous Hurlet and Index limestones, Ayrshire, yields results capable of palaeoecological interpretation. The faunas are distributed along environmental gradients within carbonate facies that systematically extended out into other sedimentary settings. Clusters of genera in higher taxa plotted on ternary diagrams of trophic structure show both units commonly include epifaunal suspension feeders, although one cluster from the Hurlet Limestone includes epifaunal detritus-suspension feeders and another from the Index Limestone includes vagrant-epifaunal detritus-suspension feeders. All the clusters include the surficial and semi-infaunal tiers, non-motile and suspension feeding categories, but they show trends of increasing ecological complexity. The geographical distribution of the clusters shows the Hurlet Limestone palaeoenvironment was most diverse around Sorn, whereas that for the Index Limestone was diverse in all three main areas of outcrop. This variation is attributed to local fluctuations in depth, sea floor conditions and water quality. An ‘embayment’ in the palaeoenvironment of the Index Limestone, seen by draping the interpretations over a 3D computer model of the subsurface, was associated with the Kerse Loch Fault, where penecontemporaneous displacement and an inferred palaeotopographical fault scarp influenced marine water flow, environmental distribution and genus diversity.
Biological Diversity in Agriculture and Global Change
Authors: Zimmerer Karl S.
Published: October 2010

Biological diversity of agriculture consists of several analytic levels and spatial management scales that are subject to complex interactions with global change. The complexity of interactions is related to the bidirectional impacts and influences of global land use and climate change in combination with social-environmental shifts (globalization of agricultural development; market integration; technological change; and regulation through global treaties, policies, and institutions). This article develops a conceptual framework of the complexity of interactions using four thematic nodes—biological diversity in agriculture; global change; management and scale; and social-environmental adaptation, vulnerability, and resilience. It argues for the increased relevance of this framework. Linking expanded scientific research and policy to this group of conceptual nodes yields insight into the impacts of global change on biological diversity in agriculture and into the design of conservation strategies, monitoring approaches, and sustainability policies. Future policy must anticipate interactions of biological diversity, agroecosystem complexity, and global change stemming from the acceleration and integration of region-scale land-use intensification and disintensification.
Competing Dimensions of Energy Security: An International Perspective
Authors: Sovacool Benjamin K. , Brown Marilyn A.
Published: October 2010

How well are industrialized nations doing in terms of their energy security? Without a standardized set of metrics, it is difficult to determine the extent to which countries are properly responding to the emerging energy security challenges related to climate change: a growing dependency on fossil fuels, population growth, and economic development. In response, this article first surveys the academic literature on energy security and concludes that it is composed of availability, affordability, efficiency, and environmental stewardship. It then analyzes the relative energy security performance, based on these four dimensions, of the United States and 21 other member countries of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) from 1970 to 2007. Four countries are examined in greater detail: one of the strongest (Denmark), one of the most improved in terms of energy security (Japan), one with weak and stagnant energy security (United States), and one with deteriorating energy security (Spain). The article concludes by offering implications for public policy.
Global Water Pollution and Human Health
Authors: Schwarzenbach René P. , Egli Thomas , Hofstetter Thomas B. , von Gunten Urs , Wehrli Bernhard
Published: October 2010

Water quality issues are a major challenge that humanity is facing in the twenty-first century. Here, we review the main groups of aquatic contaminants, their effects on human health, and approaches to mitigate pollution of freshwater resources. Emphasis is placed on chemical pollution, particularly on inorganic and organic micropollutants including toxic metals and metalloids as well as a large variety of synthetic organic chemicals. Some aspects of waterborne diseases and the urgent need for improved sanitation in developing countries are also discussed. The review addresses current scientific advances to cope with the great diversity of pollutants. It is organized along the different temporal and spatial scales of global water pollution. Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) have affected water systems on a global scale for more than five decades; during that time geogenic pollutants, mining operations, and hazardous waste sites have been the most relevant sources of long-term regional and local water pollution. Agricultural chemicals and waste-water sources exert shorter-term effects on regional to local scales.
The Final Merger of Black-Hole Binaries
Authors: Centrella Joan , Baker John G. , Kelly Bernard J. , van Meter James R.
Published: October 2010

Recent breakthroughs in the field of numerical relativity have led to dramatic progress in understanding the predictions of general relativity for the dynamical interactions of two black holes in the regime of very strong gravitational fields. Such black-hole binaries are important astrophysical systems and are a key target of current and developing gravitational-wave detectors. The waveform signature of strong gravitational radiation emitted as the black holes fall together and merge provides a clear, observable record of the process. After decades of slow progress, these mergers and the gravitational-wave signals they generate can now be routinely calculated using the methods of numerical relativity. We review recent advances in understanding the predicted physics of events and the consequent radiation and discuss some of the impacts of this new knowledge in various areas of astrophysics.
Advances in Calorimetry
Authors: Brau James E. , Jaros John A. , Ma Hong
Published: October 2010

We review recent advances in calorimetry for high-energy physics. We provide an overview of the fundamentals of calorimetry, then survey calorimeters used in recent experiments, which represent the current state of the art. We conclude with descriptions of several research and development efforts and discuss future directions of the field.
The Cold and Hot CNO Cycles
Authors: Wiescher M. , Görres J. , Uberseder E. , Imbriani G. , Pignatari M.
Published: October 2010

New experimental methods and techniques, combined with the development of new theoretical tools, have opened new avenues to explore nuclear reactions of significance for nucleosynthesis at or near the actual temperatures of stellar burning. In particular, many reactions of the cold and hot CNO cycles have been investigated in recent years to provide a complete understanding of this critical hydrogen-burning mechanism in stars and stellar explosions. This has led to new interpretations of or new signatures for a number of critical hydrogen-burning environments and events. This article provides a summary of the most recent discoveries and results associated with CNO reactions, and it identifies existing shortcomings in the data as well as needs and opportunities for additional future experiments.
LUNA: Nuclear Astrophysics Deep Underground
Authors: Broggini Carlo , Bemmerer Daniel , Guglielmetti Alessandra , Menegazzo Roberto
Published: October 2010

Nuclear astrophysics strives for a comprehensive picture of the nuclear reactions responsible for synthesizing chemical elements and for powering the stellar evolution engine. Deep underground in the Gran Sasso National Laboratory, the cross sections of the key reactions of the proton-proton chain and of the carbon-nitrogen-oxygen cycle have been measured right down to the energies of astrophysical interest. The salient features of underground nuclear astrophysics are summarized here. We review the main results obtained by LUNA during the past 20 years and discuss their influence on our understanding of the properties of the neutrino, the Sun, and the universe itself. Future directions of underground nuclear astrophysics toward the study both of helium and carbon burning and of stellar neutron sources in stars are outlined.
Multiparton Scattering Amplitudes via On-Shell Methods
Authors: Berger Carola F. , Forde Darren
Published: October 2010

We present an overview of recent developments, based on on-shell techniques, in the calculation of multiparton scattering amplitudes at one loop that are relevant for phenomenological studies at hadron colliders. These new on-shell methods make efficient use of the physical properties of the hard scattering, such as unitarity and factorization.
Knockout of insulin receptors in cardiomyocytes attenuates coronary arterial dysfunction induced by pressure overload
Authors: Symons J. David , Hu Ping , Yang Ying , Wang Xiaohui , Zhang Quan-Jiang , Wende Adam R. , Sloan Crystal L. , Sena Sandra , Abel E. Dale , Litwin Sheldon E.
Published: October 2010

Ablating insulin receptors in cardiomyocytes causes subendocardial fibrosis and left ventricular (LV) dysfunction after 4 wk of transverse aortic constriction (TAC). To determine whether these maladaptive responses are precipitated by coronary vascular dysfunction, we studied mice with cardiomyocyte-restricted knock out of insulin receptors (CIRKO) and wild-type (WT) TAC mice before the onset of overt LV dysfunction. Two weeks of TAC produced comparable increases ( P < 0.05 vs. respective sham) in heart weight/body weight (mg/g) in WT-TAC (8.03 ± 1.14, P < 0.05 vs. respective sham) and CIRKO-TAC (7.76 ± 1.25, P < 0.05 vs. respective sham) vs. WT-sham (5.64 ± 0.11) and CIRKO-sham (4.64 ± 0.10) mice. In addition, 2 wk of TAC were associated with similar LV geometry and function (echocardiography) and interstitial fibrosis (picrosirius red staining) in CIRKO and WT mice. Responses to acetylcholine (ACh), NG-monomethyl-l-arginine (l-NMMA), and sodium nitroprusside (SNP) were measured in coronary arteries that were precontracted to achieve ∼70% of maximal tension development using the thromboxane A2 receptor mimetic U-46619 (∼3 × 10−6 M). ACh-evoked vasorelaxation was absent in WT-TAC but was present in CIRKO-TAC albeit reduced relative to sham-operated animals. l-NMMA-evoked tension development was similar in vessels from CIRKO-TAC mice but was lower ( P < 0.05) in WT-TAC animals vs. the respective sham-operated groups, and SNP-evoked vasorelaxation was similar among all mice. Thus estimates of stimulated and basal endothelial nitric oxide release were better preserved in CIRKO vs. WT mice in response to 2 wk of TAC. These findings indicate that maladaptive LV remodeling previously observed in CIRKO-TAC mice is not precipitated by coronary artery dysfunction, because CIRKO mice exhibit compensatory mechanisms (e.g., increased eNOS transcript and protein) to maintain coronary endothelial function in the setting of pressure overload.
p27: A Barometer of Signaling Deregulation and Potential Predictor of Response to Targeted Therapies
Authors: Wander Seth A. , Zhao Dekuang , Slingerland Joyce M.
Published: October 2010

Phosphorylation of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p27 by upstream mitogenic signaling pathways regulates its stability, localization, and biological function. In human cancers, loss of the antiproliferative action of p27 can arise through reduced protein levels and/or cytoplasmic mislocalization, leading to increased cell proliferation and/or cell migration, respectively. Reduced p27 expression levels and p27 mislocalization have potential prognostic and therapeutic implications in various types of human cancers. This review highlights mechanisms of functional deregulation of p27 by oncogenic signaling that provide an important molecular rationale for pathway targeting in cancer treatment. Clin Cancer Res; 17(1); 12–8. ©2010 AACR.
Mnk Mediates Integrin α6β4–Dependent eIF4E Phosphorylation and Translation of VEGF mRNA
Authors: Korneeva Nadejda L. , Soung Young Hwa , Kim Hong Im , Giordano Anthony , Rhoads Robert E. , Gram Hermann , Chung Jun
Published: October 2010

It was previously shown that integrin α6β4 contributes to translation of cancer-related mRNAs such as VEGF via initiation factor eIF4E. In this study, we found that integrin α6β4 regulates the activity of eIF4E through the Ser/Thr kinase Mnk. Although a role for Mnk in various aspects of cancer progression has been established, a link between integrin and Mnk activity has not. Here we show that Mnk1 is a downstream effector of integrin α6β4 and mediates the α6β4 signaling, important for translational control. Integrin α6β4 signals through MEK and p38 MAPK to increase phosphorylation of Mnk1 and eIF4E. Inhibition of Mnk1 activity by CGP57380 or downregulation by shRNA blocks α6β4-dependent translation of VEGF mRNA. Our studies suggest that Mnk1 could be a therapeutic target in cancers where the integrin α6β4 level is high. Mol Cancer Res; 8(12); 1571–8. ©2010 AACR.
Validity and Sensitivity to Change of the Falls Efficacy Scales International to Assess Fear of Falling in Older Adults with and without Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Hauer Klaus A. , Kempen Gertrudis I.J.M. , Schwenk Michael , Yardley Lucy , Beyer Nina , Todd Chris , Oster Peter , Zijlstra G.A. Rixt
Published: October 2010

Background: Measures of fear of falling have not yet been validated in patients with dementia, leaving a methodological gap that limits research in a population at high risk of falling and fall-related consequences. Objective: The objectives of this study are to determine: (1) the validity of the 7-item Short Falls Efficacy Scale International (Short FES-I) in geriatric patients with and without cognitive impairment, and (2) the sensitivity to change of the 10-item Falls Efficacy Scale (FES), the 16-item FES-I and the 7-item Short FES-I in geriatric patients with dementia. Methods: Cross-sectional data of community-dwelling older adults and geriatric rehabilitation patients (n = 284) collected during face-to-face interviews were used to determine construct and discriminant validity by testing for differences within variables related to fear of falling. Sensitivity to change was studied in an intervention study including patients with mild to moderate dementia (n = 130) as determined by standard response means (SRMs). Results: The Short FES-I showed excellent construct and discriminant validity in the total group and subsamples according to cognitive status. Sensitivity to change was adequate to good in the FES (range SRM: 0.18–0.77) and FES-I (range SRM: 0.21–0.74), with the Short FES-I showing the highest peak sensitivity to change (range SRM: 0.18–0.91). Conclusions: The Short FES-I is a valid measure to assess fear of falling in frail older adults with and without cognitive impairment, yet it may show floor effects in higher functioning older people. All scales, including the Short FES-I, were sensitive to detecting intervention-induced changes in concerns about falling in geriatric patients with dementia.
Histamine H3 Receptors Are Involved in the Protective Effect of Ghrelin against HCl-Induced Gastric Damage in Rats
Authors: Adami Maristella , Pozzoli Cristina , Leurs Rob , Stark Holger , Coruzzi Gabriella
Published: October 2010

In the present study, the effects of ghrelin against the gastric damage induced by intragastric administration of 0.6 N HCl and the involvement of histamine H3 receptors (H3Rs) were investigated in conscious rats with selective H3R ligands. Intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of ghrelin (40 µg/kg) significantly reduced (43%) the gastric lesions caused by concentrated acid. The effect of ghrelin was prevented by prior administration of the ghrelin receptor antagonist [D-Lys3]-GHRP-6 (100 µg/kg i.p.) and by subcutaneous (s.c.) injection of the nonimidazole H3R antagonist UCL2138 (30 mg/kg). The selective H3R agonist immethridine (30 mg/kg s.c.) significantly inhibited (64.60%) the gastric lesions induced by 0.6 N HCl. The effect of immethridine was prevented by prior administration of UCL2138 (30 mg/kg s.c.), but not by [D-Lys3]-GHRP-6 (100 µg/kg i.p.). Neither [D-Lys3]-GHRP-6 nor UCL2138 modified HCl-induced gastric damage per se. These data enlarge previous studies showing protective effects of ghrelin against ulcerogenic stimuli; in addition, they clearly indicate that ghrelin-induced gastroprotection involves the release of histamine, which enhances gastric mucosal defense through the activation of histamine H3Rs.
Peripheral Glucocorticoid Sensitivity in Children with Controlled Persistent Asthma
Authors: Müller Guilherme C. , Pitrez Paulo M. , Lopes Rejane Fialho Matias , Souza Pires Priscila , Correa Bruna L. , Pillat Micheli M. , Teixeira Antônio L. , Jones Marcus H. , Stein Renato T. , Bauer Moisés E.
Published: October 2010

Background: Persistent asthma in children is a chronic inflammatory disease and glucocorticoids (GCs) are currently recognized as the mainstay of therapy. Clinical and in vitro steroid resistance has been demonstrated in severe asthma. However, GC insensitivity has not been studied in children with controlled persistent asthma. Objectives: To analyze peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) sensitivity to GC in children (6–15 years) with persistent asthma and healthy controls. Methods: Children with persistent asthma were selected and lung function and skin-prick tests were performed in all studied asthmatic children. PBMCs were isolated and cultured in vitro to assess mitogen-induced proliferation and cellular sensitivity to dexamethasone. Results: Fifty-seven children with persistent and controlled asthma (mean age 10 years) were recruited and divided into 3 groups (severe, moderate and mild), and compared to healthy children (n = 18). Children with asthma, regardless of the severity of disease, presented similar sensitivity to GCs when compared to healthy children. Patients with mild asthma showed significantly less sensitivity to dexamethasone and children with severe asthma had similar sensitivity to dexamethasone when compared to controls. Conclusions: In vitro insensitivity to GCs was not demonstrated in children with controlled persistent asthma, even in those with severe disease. Our findings suggest that resistance to GCs in older patients with severe asthma might be an acquired process. However, future longitudinal studies are necessary to confirm this hypothesis.