bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple imaging techniques demonstrate the manipulation of surfaces to reduce bacterial contamination and corrosion
Authors: ARNOLD J. W. , BOOTHE D. H. , SUZUKI O. , BAILEY G. W.
Published: November 2004

Surface imaging techniques were combined to determine appropriate manipulation of technologically important surfaces for commercial applications. The complementarity of the microscopy methods, scanning electron microscopy, electron probe microanalysis and atomic force microscopy assessed and correlated form and function of the surface modifications. Stainless steel disks (1 cm in diameter) were laser‐cut from the same sheets of stainless steel and treated by electropolishing or left untreated for controls. Each treatment was analysed separately using each technique. First, the disks were examined by visual inspection and electron probe microanalysis for surface characteristics and elemental composition, respectively. Aliquots of bacterial suspensions (saline rinses of poultry carcasses from a commercial broiler processing plant) were then diluted in broth and monitored for growth by spectrophotometry. Stainless steel disks (1 cm in diameter) were added and the cultures were grown to sufficient density to allow attachment of bacterial cells to test surfaces. Relative differences in the surface morphology shown by atomic force microscopy, including Z ranges, roughness and other measurements, corresponded by treatment with the differences in reduction of bacterial counts shown by scanning electron microscopy. A model of wet‐processing conditions tested the effects of corrosive treatment of surfaces. Less bacterial attachment occurred after corrosive treatment on controls and electropolished samples. Electropolishing significantly reduced bacterial numbers and the effects of corrosive action compared to the controls. Thus, the multiple imaging techniques showed that engineered changes on stainless steel surfaces improved the resistance of the surface finish to bacterial attachment, biofilm formation, and corrosive action.
A method for determining void arrangements in inverse opals
Authors: BLANFORD C. F. , CARTER C. B. , STEIN A.
Published: November 2004

The periodic arrangement of voids in ceramic materials templated by colloidal crystal arrays (inverse opals) has been analysed by transmission electron microscopy. Individual particles consisting of an approximately spherical array of at least 100 voids were tilted through 90° along a single axis within the transmission electron microscope. The bright‐field images of these particles at high‐symmetry points, their diffractograms calculated by fast Fourier transforms, and the transmission electron microscope goniometer angles were compared with model face‐centred cubic, body‐centred cubic, hexagonal close‐packed, and simple cubic lattices in real and reciprocal space. The spatial periodicities were calculated for two‐dimensional projections. The systematic absences in these diffractograms differed from those found in diffraction patterns from three‐dimensional objects. The experimental data matched only the model face‐centred cubic lattice, so it was concluded that the packing of the voids (and, thus, the polymer spheres that composed the original colloidal crystals) was face‐centred cubic. In face‐centred cubic structures, the stacking‐fault displacementvector is . No stacking faults were observed when viewingthe inverse opal structure along the orthogonal <110>‐type directions, eliminating the possibility of a random hexagonally close‐packed structure for the particles observed. This technique complements synchrotron X‐ray scattering work on colloidal crystals by allowing both real‐space and reciprocal‐space analysis to be carried out on a smaller cross‐sectional area.
Shear force near‐field optical microscope based on Q‐controlled bimorph sensor for biological imaging in liquid
Authors: LEI F. H. , ANGIBOUST J.‐F. , QIAO W. , SOCKALINGUM G. D. , DUKIC S. , CHRIT L. , TROYON M. , MANFAIT M.
Published: November 2004

Shear force near‐field microscopy on biological samples in their physiological environment loses considerable sensitivity and resolution as a result of liquid viscous damping. Using a bimorph‐based cantilever sensor incorporating force feedback, as recently developed by us, gives an alternative force detection scheme for biological imaging in liquid. The dynamics and sensitivity of this sensor were theoretically and experimentally discussed. Driving the bimorph cantilever close to its resonance frequency with appropriate force feedback allows us to obtain a quality factor (Q‐factor) of up to 103 in water, without changing its intrinsic resonance frequency and spring constant. Thus, the force detection sensitivity is improved. Shear force imaging on mouse brain sections and human skin tissues in liquid with an enhanced Q‐factor of 410 have shown a high sensitivity and stability. A resolution of about 50 nm has been obtained. The experimental results suggest that the system is reliable and particularly suitable for biological cell imaging in a liquid environment.
Bergmann's rule and the mammal fauna of northern North America
Authors: Blackburn Tim M. , Hawkins Bradford A.
Published: November 2004

The observation that “on the whole… larger species live farther north and the smaller ones farther south” was first published by Carl Bergmann in 1847. However, why animal body mass might show such spatial variation, and indeed whether it is a general feature of animal assemblages, is currently unclear. We discuss reasons for this uncertainty, and use our conclusions to direct an analysis of Bergmann's rule in the mammals in northern North America, in the communities of species occupying areas that were covered by ice at the last glacial maximum. First, we test for the existence of Bergmann's rule in this assemblage, and investigate whether small‐ and large‐bodied species show different spatial patterns of body size variation. We then attempt to explain the spatial variation in terms of environmental variation, and evaluate the adequacy of our analyses to account for the spatial pattern using the residuals arising from our environmental models. Finally, we use the results of these models to test predictions of different hypotheses proposed to account for Bergmann's rule. Bergmann's rule is strongly supported. Both small‐ and large‐bodied species exhibit the rule. Our environmental models account for most of the spatial variation in mean, minimum and maximum body mass in this assemblage. Our results falsify predictions of hypotheses relating to migration ability and random colonisation and diversification, but support predictions of hypotheses relating to both heat conservation and starvation resistance.
Plant responses to livestock grazing frequency in an Australian temperate grassland
Authors: Dorrough Josh , Ash Julian , McIntyre Sue
Published: November 2004

Livestock grazing is often thought to enhance native plant species co‐existence in remnant grasslands but may also favour exotic invaders. Recommendations for appropriate grazing strategies are needed, for which an understanding of the response of plant species is necessary. We explored the response of plant species and plant functional groups to grazing in temperate grassland of the Monaro Tablelands of south‐east Australia by comparing species abundance in adjacent areas that differed in livestock grazing regime (minimal, infrequent and frequent). We also examined whether species with similar responses to grazing share certain traits and consider whether these traits might provide a useful method of assessing grazing impact. At the scale measured (0.25 m2), an infrequent grazing regime maximised plant species co‐existence in these grasslands due to widespread invasion by exotic plant species at infrequent grazing intensity. Many native species declined in abundance when grazing frequency increased from minimal to infrequent. Annuals invaded under infrequent grazing while perennials declined most strongly under high frequency grazing. Low levels of grazing apparently reduce cover and create sites suitable for seed recruitment whereas more frequent grazing reduces the persistence of perennials. While there was a tendency for native species to be more susceptible to grazing impact than exotics, plant traits, in particular longevity (perennial, annual) provided a better prediction of the response of plants to grazing. Although a few native plant species persisted at high grazing frequency, even infrequent livestock grazing may not be appropriate for the conservation of many native perennial grassland species. Targeted reductions in grazing frequency may be necessary to enable the long‐term coexistence of grazing susceptible species.
Interstitial muscle lactate, pyruvate and potassium dynamics in the trapezius muscle during repetitive low‐force arm movements, measured with microdialysis
Authors: Rosendal L. , Blangsted A. K. , Kristiansen J. , Søgaard K. , Langberg H. , Sjøgaard G. , Kjær M.
Published: November 2004

Aim:  Local muscle metabolic responses to repetitive low‐force contractions and to intense static contractions were studied by microdialysis in humans.

Methods:  Microdialysate and electromyography (EMG) were sampled from the trapezius muscle, mixed venous blood samples were taken and perceived exertion was rated (0–9) before and during 20 min of standardized repetitive arm movement (REP), 60 min recovery (R1), and 10 min 90° sustained arm position (SUS) at 20% maximum voluntary contraction, followed by 60 min recovery (R2) in six healthy male participants (28–33 years).

Results:  Average muscle activity was 8 ± 2% of EMGmax−RMS (mean ±SEM) during REP and 22 ± 5% of EMGmax−RMS during SUS. Perceived exertion increased from 0 to 3.2 ± 0.5 during REP and from 0 to 8.5 ± 0.3 during SUS. During REP interstitial muscle lactate increased from 2.1 ± 0.2 to 2.9 ± 0.2 mmol L−1 (P < 0.001) and returned to the baseline level during R1, while dialysate [K+] increased from 3.8 ± 0.2 to 4.7 ± 0.2 mmol L−1 (P < 0.002) and returned to 3.8 ± 0.2 mmol L−1 during R1. In contrast, plasma lactate and [K+] remained unchanged. During SUS interstitial muscle lactate increased from 2.3 ± 0.2 to 3.3 ± 0.3 mmol L−1 (P < 0.003), increased further to 6.5 ± 1.3 mmol L−1 post‐exercise (P < 0.001) and returned to baseline levels during R2. Dialysate [K+] increased from 3.9 ± 0.2 to 4.6 ± 0.2 mmol L−1 (P < 0.05) and returned to baseline level during R2. Plasma lactate increased significantly during SUS whereas plasma [K+] was unchanged. During REP and SUS interstitial pyruvate was unchanged but increased in the post‐exercise period proportional to the exercise intensity.

Conclusions:  The microdialysis technique was effective in revealing muscle metabolic events that were not found systemically. Furthermore, the trapezius muscle showed an anaerobic metabolism during low‐force contraction, which could indicate inhomogeneous muscle activation.
Bovine umbilical hernia maps to the centromeric end of Bos taurus autosome 8
Authors: Ron M. , Tager‐Cohen I. , Feldmesser E. , Ezra E. , Kalay D. , Roe B. , Seroussi E. , Weller J. I.
Published: November 2004

Twelve bull calves were produced by mating elite Israeli cows to ‘Glenhapton Enhancer’, a Canadian Holstein bull. The frequency of umbilical hernia (UH) in the progeny of the sons ranged from 1 to 21%, consistent with the hypothesis that Enhancer is the carrier of major dominant or codominant gene with partial penetrance for UH. Five sons of Enhancer produced progeny with >10% frequency of UH including sire 3259, whereas progeny of three sons had <3% UH. A total of 116 grand‐progeny of Enhancer, all progeny of 3259, were genotyped for 59 microsatellites spanning the 29 bovine autosomes. Of these offspring, 41 were affected. Significant differences in paternal allele frequencies between the affected and unaffected progeny groups were found for marker BMS1591 on bovine chromosome 8 (BTA8). The UH‐associated paternal allele originated from Enhancer. The chromosomal segment associated with UH was more precisely mapped between UWCA47, on the centromeric end of BTA8 and RM321, 12 cM from the centromere. A maximum LOD score of 3.84 was obtained 2.5 cM from the centromere with a support interval of 8 cM. Haplotype analysis of eight sons of Enhancer suggested that the UH gene is located in the centromeric end of BTA8 beyond ARO71/ARO72. Thus, by integrating the results from progeny of sire 3259 and sons of Enhancer the location of the UH gene was further refined to the BTA8 segment between ARO71/ARO72 and UWCA47.
An update on the neuropathology of HIV in the HAART era
Authors: Bell J E
Published: November 2004

This review compares the neuropathology of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART)‐treated HIV+ individuals with the reported central nervous system (CNS) findings from the pre‐HAART era. HAART has had considerable success in combating HIV‐related immune collapse and has prevented many of the former end‐stage complications of AIDS. However, with increased survival times the prevalence of minor HIV‐associated cognitive impairment appears to be rising among treated patients and this may be a particular risk for older individuals. HIV encephalitis (HIVE) is still prevalent in treated patients although attenuated forms of HIVE and CNS opportunistic disorders are also observed. Some subjects show very significant CNS lymphocytic infiltrates in the context of HAART‐induced immune reconstitution. HIV‐associated cognitive impairment correlates best with the increased presence of activated, though not necessarily infected, microglia and CNS macrophages. This suggests that indirect mechanisms of neuronal injury and loss occur in HIV/AIDS as a basis for dementia since neurones are not themselves productively infected. Research to elucidate the mechanisms of neuronal injury in HIV/AIDS may contribute to the understanding of CNS function not only in HAART‐treated subjects but also in other neurodegenerative disorders.
Expression of enamel proteins and LEF1 in adamantinomatous craniopharyngioma: evidence for its odontogenic epithelial differentiation
Authors: Sekine S , Takata T , Shibata T , Mori M , Morishita Y , Noguchi M , Uchida T , Kanai Y , Hirohashi S
Published: November 2004

Aims:  Adamantinomatous craniopharyngioma (ACP) resembles histologically some odontogenic tumours, such as ameloblastoma and calcifying odontogenic cyst. However, there has been no evidence that ACP differentiates also functionally as odontogenic epithelium. The aim of this study was to gain evidence of odontogenic epithelial differentiation in ACP by means of immunohistochemistry. Among normal human tissues, enamel proteins are expressed exclusively in teeth, and lymphoid enhancer factor 1 (LEF1), in co‐operation with β‐catenin, play an important role in tooth development. The expression of these proteins is therefore indicative of odontogenic epithelial differentiation.

Methods and results:  The expression of enamel proteins and LEF1 was examined in 10 adamantinomatous and six papillary craniopharyngiomas. All the ACPs showed a variable degree of enamel protein expression, including amelogenin, enamelin and enamelysin, mainly in ghost cells. LEF1 was also heterogeneously expressed in ACPs; remarkably, its expression pattern was identical to that of nuclear β‐catenin accumulation. In contrast, none of the papillary craniopharyngiomas expressed enamel proteins or LEF1.

Conclusions:  These results suggest that ACP consistently shows odontogenic epithelial differentiation. Since ACPs harbour β‐catenin mutation, the inappropriate activation of β‐catenin/LEF1 complex‐dependent transcription may play a critical role in ACP tumorigenesis.
Successful kidney re‐transplantation in a patient with previous allograft kidney tuberculosis
Authors: Siu Y.P. , Tong M.K.H. , Leung K.T. , Yung C.Y.
Published: November 2004

Abstract: Opportunistic infections, and in particular tuberculosis (TB), carry substantial morbidity and mortality in solid organ transplant recipients. We report a 39‐year‐old man who underwent a cadaveric renal transplant. Three months postoperatively, he was diagnosed to have tuberculous infection of his graft kidney manifested as fever and renal impairment. The diagnosis was confirmed by renal biopsy, which showed granuloma formation and positive stain for acid‐fast bacilli (AFB). His systemic symptoms responded well to a complete course of anti‐tuberculous therapy, but his renal function continued to deteriorate. Graft nephrectomy was performed and the patient underwent a second kidney transplant 1 year later. He remained well and asymptomatic thereafter. No signs of recurrence of tuberculous infection were noted up until the present time. This case illustrates that TB remains an important threat to transplant recipients. Although reactivation of dormant TB is the usual mode of infection, acquisition from the donor graft is also possible. The latter may account for the infection in our case, as our patient had a negative tuberculin skin test and normal chest radiograph prior to transplant. The identification of AFB in the kidney graft less than 3 months postoperatively also suggested that causal relationship. While diagnosing TB in post‐transplant recipients is difficult and may require renal biopsy, as in our case, treatment on the other hand is no different from the standard protocols. However, no consensus has been reached on the safety of re‐transplantation. Also, the need for graft nephrectomy and chemoprophylaxis remains unclear.
Zircon U–Pb ages and tectonic implications of ‘Early Paleozoic’ granitoids at Yanbian, Jilin Province, northeast China
Authors: Zhang Yanbin , Wu Fuyuan , Wilde Simon A. , Zhai Mingguo , Lu Xiaoping , Sun Deyou
Published: November 2004

Abstract  The Yanbian area is located in the eastern part of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB) of China and is characterized by widespread Phanerozoic granitic intrusions. It was previously thought that the Yanbian granitoids were mainly emplaced in the Early Paleozoic (so‐called ‘Caledonian’ granitoids), extending east–west along the northern margin of the North China craton. However, few of them have been precisely dated; therefore, five typical ‘Caledonian’ granitic intrusions (the Huangniling, Dakai, Mengshan, Gaoling and Bailiping batholiths) were selected for U–Pb zircon isotopic study. New‐age data show that emplacement of these granitoids extended from the Late Paleozoic to Late Mesozoic (285–116 Ma). This indicates that no ‘Caledonian’ granitic belt exists along the northern margin of the North China craton. The granitoids can be subdivided into four episodes based on our new data: Early Permian (285 ± 9 Ma), Early Triassic (249–245 Ma), Jurassic (192–168 Ma) and Cretaceous (119–116 Ma). The 285 ± 9 Ma tonalite was most likely related to subduction of the Paleo‐Asian Oceanic Plate beneath the North China craton, followed by Triassic (249–245 Ma) syn‐collisional monzogranites, representing the collision of the CAOB orogenic collage with the North China craton and final closure of the Paleo‐Asian Ocean. The Jurassic granitoids resulted from subduction of the Paleo‐Pacific plate and subsequent collision of the Jiamusi–Khanka Massif with the existing continent, assembled in the Triassic. The Early Cretaceous granitoids formed in an extensional setting along the eastern Asian continental margin.
A Follow‐up of Deinstitutionalized Men with Intellectual Disabilities and Histories of Antisocial Behaviour
Authors: Quinsey Vernon L. , Book Angela , Skilling Tracey A.
Published: November 2004

Background  There is frequently great concern about the dangerousness of deinstitutionalized men with intellectual disabilities who have been institutionalized because they are considered to be at high risk for the commission of serious antisocial acts or sexual offending. Unfortunately, there is little information on whether changes in the behaviour of these men can be used to adjust supervision so as to manage risk.

Methods  An appraisal of men with intellectual disabilities and histories of serious antisocial behaviours who were residing in institutions about to be closed led to a 16 month follow‐up of 58 of these clients who had been transferred to community settings.

Results  A total of 67% exhibited antisocial behaviour of some kind and 47% exhibited ‘hands‐on’ violent or sexual misbehaviours directed toward other clients or staff. The Violent Risk Appraisal Guide was the best predictor of new violent or sexual incidents and a variety of other pre‐release predictors were related to the likelihood of antisocial incidents of any kind. Overall predictive accuracy was moderate. A field trial showed that monthly staff ratings of client characteristics were related to antisocial incidents.

Conclusions  These preliminary data indicate that measures of dynamic risk involving staff ratings are worth developing and evaluating.
Glucagon‐Like Peptide‐1: Regulation of Insulin Secretion and Therapeutic Potential
Authors: Gromada Jesper , Brock Birgitte , Schmitz Ole , Rorsman Patrik
Published: November 2004

Abstract: Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) is an intestinally derived insulinotropic hormone currently under investigation for use as a novel therapeutic agent in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. One of several important effects of GLP‐1 is on nutrient‐induced pancreatic hormone release and is mediated by binding to a specific G‐protein coupled receptor resulting in the activation of adenylate cyclase and an increase in cAMP generation. In the β‐cell, cAMP binds and modulates activities of both protein kinase A and cAMP‐regulated guanine nucleotide exchange factor II, thereby enhancing glucose‐dependent insulin secretion. The stimulatory action of GLP‐1 on insulin secretion involves interaction with a plethora of signal transduction processes including ion channel activity, intracellular Ca2+ handling and exocytosis of the insulin‐containing granules. In this review we focus principally on recent advances in our understanding on the cellular mechanisms proposed to underlie GLP‐1's insulinotropic effect and attempt to incorporate this knowledge into a working model for the control of insulin secretion. Lastly, this review discusses the applicability of GLP‐1 as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Ca2+‐Dependent Elevation of Inositol 1,4,5‐Trisphosphate Level Induced by Freezing or Homogenization of Tissues and Cells
Authors: Sandnes Dagny , Nilssen Laila Sortvik , Andersen Geir Øystein , Viko Håvard , Sjetnan Anne E. , Skomedal Tor , Osnes Jan‐Bjørn
Published: November 2004

Abstract: Various cells and tissues contain high basal levels of inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate, raising questions about the functional significance of inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate in some tissues such as the heart. We used intact tissue and isolated cells from heart and liver of adult rats to examine if different fixation procedures might artificially elevate the level of inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate. The basal level of inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate in intact, freeze‐clamped cardiac tissue from adult rats was 10 times higher than in isolated, non‐frozen cardiomyocytes, while freeze‐clamped liver contained approximately 4 times higher inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate levels than isolated, non‐frozen hepatocytes. Stimulation with norepinephrine induced a significant increase in the inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate level in isolated cardiomyocytes, whereas no significant increase was observed in freeze‐clamped cardiac tissue. Freezing of isolated cardiomyocytes or hepatocytes before extraction increased basal inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate levels 3 times. In cellular homogenates prepared in the presence of EGTA and stored at 4 °, readdition of calcium resulted in a time‐dependent increase in inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate mass and a decrease in the mass of phosphatidylinositol 4,5‐bisphosphate (PIP2). The reaction was essentially complete within 30 sec. in homogenates from cardiomyocytes, while PIP2 hydrolysis was slower in hepatocyte homogenates. Perfusion of intact rat hearts with EGTA present during the last 2 min. of perfusion, followed by freeze‐clamping, resulted in basal inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate levels comparable to those in isolated cardiomyocytes, and norepinephrine stimulation increased inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate mass by approximately 80%. The presence of EGTA did not significantly affect PIP2 levels in perfused hearts. The results suggest that freezing or homogenization of intact tissue and isolated cells may result in Ca2+‐dependent activation of phospholipase C, leading to high basal inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate levels that may mask agonist‐induced changes.
Cage aquaculture and water-quality changes in the LaCloche Channel, Lake Huron, Canada: a paleolimnological assessment
Authors: Clerk Saloni , Selbie Daniel T , Smol John P
Published: November 2004

Lake eutrophication due to cage aquaculture is an area of concern in Ontario; however, without knowledge of pre-impact conditions, it is difficult to determine the extent and magnitude of environmental change. Paleolimnological techniques were used to estimate water-quality conditions prior to, during, and briefly following aquaculture operation in the LaCloche Channel, Lake Huron. Past oxygen and nutrient levels were inferred from assemblages of chironomids and diatoms, respectively, to determine whether recent low-oxygen and nutrient-rich conditions were related to cage aquaculture in operation from 1989 to 1998. Chironomid assemblages exhibited trends consistent with decreased hypolimnetic oxygen levels, with reductions in oxic-type profundal taxa and increased relative abundances of littoral communities. Diatom assemblages reflected a period of nutrient enrichment by increased relative abundances of meso-eutrophic taxa. Improvements in water quality are inferred from assemblages of diatoms in surface sediments, which may correspond to the cessation of fish-farming activities in 1998. In contrast, no sign of deep-water oxygen recovery is recorded by chironomids. These trends are consistent with eutrophication, and suggest that the LaCloche Channel was sensitive to nutrient loading from the cage-aquaculture operation. This study demonstrates the potential of using paleolimnological techniques to track water-quality changes associated with cage farming.
Assessing food-web structure, matter fluxes, and system attributes of a Central European mountain stream by performing mass-balanced network analysis
Authors: Meyer Elisabeth I , Poepperl Rainer
Published: November 2004

Trophic interactions and cycling of matter within the community in a soft-water mountain stream were analyzed on the basis of a compartment food-web model. The model describes (i) the structure of the food web, quantifying biomass, production, and consumption of individual elements as well as of the entire system, and (ii) the flow of matter between compartments as well as trophic levels. Detritus and primary producers sustain a broad variety of invertebrate consumers. Fishes are the top predators; sculpin (Cottus gobio) and a compartment consisting of brown trout (Salmo trutta) and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) are at the highest trophic level. Heterotrophic microorganisms (227.1 g dry mass (DW)·m2·year1) and aufwuchs algae (150.1 g DW·m2·year1) have the highest production. Secondary production of fishes and macroinvertebrates amounts to 2.56 and 19.9 g DW·m2·year1, respectively. Total consumption amounts to 1136.41 g DW·m2·year1. Main flows occur between the lower trophic levels. Food intake is greatest for microorganisms and Ephemeroptera. A relatively high fraction of invertebrate production is consumed by predators. For 10 of 19 compartments, over 95% of production is used as food by other organisms. Transfer efficiencies are generally low (<10%). A large proportion of matter transfer occurs at the lower discrete trophic levels of the stream.
Site fidelity of slimy sculpin (Cottus cognatus): insights from stable carbon and nitrogen analysis
Authors: Gray M A , Cunjak R A , Munkittrick K R
Published: November 2004

Concerns regarding sentinel species for assessing environmental impacts include residency, abundance, and suitability for measuring responses, if effects are to be attributable to local conditions. Stable isotope analysis was used as a tool to investigate site fidelity of slimy sculpin (Cottus cognatus) to establish residency and exposure for the sculpin. We predicted that sculpin collected from sites adjacent to agricultural activity would show higher δ15N values than those collected from sites in forested areas because of isotopic enrichment by fertilizers in the former. The predominant use of chemical fertilizer applications in the region, however, resulted in no specific enrichment of 15N in sculpin collected in the agricultural region. However, there was an incremental enrichment in the fish muscle tissue of approximately 5 in δ13C values in a downstream direction, irrespective of surrounding land use. As a result, the dual-isotope comparison was successful at demonstrating site-specific isotopic signatures across sites for 30 km of the river system. The site-specific signatures suggest that slimy sculpin are not moving considerable distances among sites and are incorporating their isotopic signatures over a narrow spatial scale. The results support the use of the slimy sculpin as a sentinel species for investigating site-specific environmental impacts.
Resource selection functions for age-0 Arctic grayling (Thymallus arcticus) and their application to stream habitat compensation
Authors: Jones Nicholas E , Tonn William M
Published: November 2004

We developed resource selection functions (RSFs) for young-of-the-year (YOY) Arctic grayling (Thymallus arcticus) in a natural Barrenlands stream and used them to assess the habitat in an artificial stream created as part of a habitat compensation agreement in the Canadian Arctic. The model for small (1521 mm) grayling explained 55% of the variation in habitat use and included water velocity, average water depth, and percentage of detritus and fines. The model for large (3857 mm) grayling explained 36% of the variation in habitat use and included water depth, percentage of detritus and fines, and several cover variables. Model validation using a withheld sample of data indicated that the models provided good fits to the data, correctly classifying 7175% of habitat-use locations. Applying the RSFs to observed habitat use in the artificial stream indicated an abundance of quality habitat for small grayling, but a paucity for the larger YOY. These results reflect an ontogenetic shift in habitat requirements, from the simple needs of small YOY to the more complex demands of larger YOY, demands that could not be well met by the artificial stream. We suggest that this inability contributed to the poor productive capacity of the artificial stream.
Reconciling overfishing and climate change with stock dynamics of Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) over 500 years
Authors: Rose G A
Published: November 2004

To examine overfishing and climate effects on depleted cod (Gadus morhua) stocks, a surplus production model based on reconstructions of cod catch in Newfoundland was used to describe biomass dynamics from 1505 to 2004. Productivity parameters r (population growth rate) and K (carrying capacity) were assigned by fitting model to survey biomass. Assumptions of fishery-only influences inferring constant, random, or depensatory parameters fared poorly (did not mimic history), as did climate influences indexed by tree ring growth. However, a model using both climate and depensation fared well, mimicking much documented history of Newfoundland cod, including declines during the Little Ice Age (mid- to late 19th century) and the stock collapses of the late 20th century, with a good fit to recent scientific surveys (r2 = 0.80). This model suggests temporal differentiation between fishing and climate effects, including (i) declines during the Little Ice Age (18001880) caused by lower productivity, (ii) collapses in the 1960s caused by overfishing, (iii) collapses in the late 1980s caused by both, and (iv) rebuilding now hindered by depensatory effects of low numbers.
ON EVALUATING BOOLEAN FUNCTIONS WITH UNRELIABLE TESTS
Authors: KENYON CLAIRE , YAO ANDREW C.
Published: November 2004

We consider the problem of evaluating a boolean function P(x1,…,xn), by asking queries of the form “xi=?”, and receiving answers which may not always be truthful. Assuming that the total number of lies does not exceed E, we present an algorithm with cost O(n+sPE+tPE), where sP is the maximal size of a minterm of P(x) and tP ‘is the maximal size of a maxterm. We also prove that if P is monotone, then any algorithm for evaluating P must ask Ω(sPE+tPE) queries for some input.
ON THE COMPLEXITY OF RECOGNIZABLE ω-TREE SETS AND NERODE THEOREM
Authors: SAOUDI A. , MULLER D.E. , SCHUPP P.E.
Published: November 2004

In this paper we consider the extension of Nerode theorem to infinite trees. Unfortunately, we prove that this extension is not possible. We give some characterizations of recognizable and rational ω-tree sets in terms of ω-tree automata. We consider some complexity measures of recognizable and rational ω-tree sets and prove that these measures define infinite hierarchies.
SEMANTICS OF A METALOGIC PROGRAMMING LANGUAGE
Authors: COSTANTINI STEFANIA
Published: November 2004

This paper presents the declarative and procedural semantics of Reflective Prolog, a new logic language able to represent metaknowledge and use it in the proof process via an extended resolution procedure including forms of implicit reflection. The declarative semantics of a Reflective Prolog definite program is provided in terms of the Least Reflective Herbrand Model of the program, characterized by means of a suitable mapping. The extended resolution is then shown to be sound and complete with respect to the Least Reflective Herband Model.
NESTED GUARDED HORN CLAUSES
Authors: FALASCHI MORENO , GABBRIELLI MAURIZIO , LEVI GIORGIO , MURAKAMI MASAKI
Published: November 2004

This paper defines a new concurrent logic language, Nested Guarded Horn Clauses (NGHC). The main new feature of the language is its concept of guard. In fact, an NGHC clause has several layers of (standard) guards. This syntactic innovation allows the definition of a complete (i.e. always applicable) set of unfolding rules and therefore of an unfolding semantics which is equivalent, with respect to the success set, to the operational semantics. A fixpoint semantics is also defined in the classic logic programming style and is proved equivalent to the unfolding one. Since it is possible to embed Flat GHC into NGHC, our method can be used to give a fixpoint semantics to FGHC as well.
AN ATOMIC BASIS OF CANCER—PHOTORADIATION THERAPY AND HEMATOPORPHYRIN DERIVATIVE
Authors: WEI CHAU-CHIN , WEI CHIH-SHANG
Published: November 2004

The principles of photoradiation therapy employing a tumor-seeking agent such as a hematoporphyrin derivative are described. The properties and preparation of hematoporphyrin derivatives and metalloporphyrin synthesis are briefly summarized. We show that PIXE analysis can be used to indicate the degree of a synthesis.
GaInAsP/InP ORGANOMETALLIC VAPOR PHASE EPITAXY FOR RESEARCH AND FABRICATION OF DEVICES
Authors: FURUYA KAZUHITO , MIYAMOTO YASUYUKI
Published: November 2004

GaInAsP/InP organometallic vapor phase epitaxy (OMVPE) is widely used for the fabrication of lasers and detectors used in optical communication. Here we describe the apparatus and growth technique of OMVPE and point out important growth conditions to obtain device quality single-crystal materials. Our research includes the use of OMVPE for the study of quantum-well lasers, ballistic-transport electron devices and nanometer heterostructures.
CATEGORY OF VECTOR BUNDLES ON ALGEBRAIC CURVES AND INFINITE DIMENSIONAL GRASSMANNIANS
Authors: MULASE MOTOHICO
Published: November 2004

Equivalence between the following categories is established: 1) A category of arbitrary vector bundles on algebraic curves defined over a field of arbitrary characteristic, and 2) a category of infinite dimensional vector spaces corresponding to certain points of Grassmannians together with their stabilizers. Our contravariant functor between these categories gives a full generalization of the well-known Krichever map, which assigns points of Grassmannians to the geometric data consisting of curves and line bundles. As an application, a solution to the classical problem of Wallenberg-Schur of classifying all commutative algebras consisting of ordinary differential operators is obtained. It is also shown that the KP flows produce all generic vector bundles on arbitrary algebraic curves of genus greater than one.
ERGODIC CONVERGENCE IN LIQUIDS AND GLASSES
Authors: MOUNTAIN RAYMOND D. , THIRUMALAI D.
Published: November 2004

A quantitative method for estimating the time interval needed for the convergence of time averages to ensemble average values in a molecular dynamics simulation is described. The essential feature of the way of estimating the time interval is the statistical equivalence of particles in a fluid in thermodynamic equilibrium. This method is quite general and should find application in many types of simulations. The soft-sphere system is used to illustrate the method and to show that it is capable of distinguishing between effectively ergodic states and nonergodic, glassy states. Finally, some observations on possibilities for future investigations are mentioned.
GRAPHICAL CONCEPTS FOR THE REPRESENTATION OF EVENTS IN HIGH ENERGY PHYSICS
Authors: DREVERMANN H. , GRAB C.
Published: November 2004

Different methods to graphically represent points and tracks of events, measured with the ALEPH-detector at LEP, are discussed. Special emphasis is put on projections, that are adapted to the cylindrical geometry of the detector, to the track geometry of charged particles moving in a homogeneous magnetic field and to the event topologies, encountered in Z0 physics.

A new concept, the so-called "V-plot", is introduced, which incorporates the full three-dimensional information of spatial points in a single picture. It is ideally suited for the study of more complicated event topologies, such as e.g. decays of particles within jets, and of the correlation between tracks and calorimeter clusters.

In addition, we propose ways of combining histograms and projections to incorporate the tracking and calorimetric information into a single picture. We describe methods of employing colour schemes to facilitate recognition of correlations between hits, tracks and/or subdetectors in different representations.
QUANTUM LIMITATIONS ON THE STORAGE AND TRANSMISSION OF INFORMATION
Authors: BEKENSTEIN JACOB D. , SCHIFFER MARCELO
Published: November 2004

Information must take up space, must weigh, and its flux must be limited. Quantum limits on communication and information storage leading to these conclusions are described here. Quantum channel capacity theory is reviewed for both steady state and burst communication. An analytic approximation is given for the maximum signal information possible with occupation number signal states as a function of mean signal energy. A theorem guaranteeing that these states are optimal for communication is proved. A heuristic "proof" of the linear bound on communication is given, followed by rigorous proofs for signals with specified mean energy, and for signals with given energy budget. And systems of many parallel quantum channels are shown to obey the linear bound for a natural channel architecture. The time-energy uncertainty principle is reformulated in information language by means of the linear bound. The quantum bound on information storage capacity of quantum mechanical and quantum field devices is reviewed. A simplified version of the analytic proof for the bound is given for the latter case. Solitons as information caches are discussed, as is information storage in one-dimensional systems. The influence of signal self-gravitation on communication is considered. Finally, it is shown that acceleration of a receiver acts to block information transfer.
Relief of Experimentally-Induced Pain by Stimulation at Acupuncture Loci: a Review
Authors: REICHMANIS MARIA , BECKER ROBERT O.
Published: November 2004

24 recent studies on acupuncture analgesia for the relief of experimentally-induced pairs are reviewed. Negative or equivocal results are reported in 7 of these. The remaining 17(71%) report significant analgesic effects during manual or electrical stimulation (particularly at very low frequencies on the order of 2 Hz) at acupuncture loci. Many investigators note that the full analgesic effect is attained only after about 20 minutes of stimulation. Furhter investigation of the analgesic effects of stimulation at acupuncture loci, particularly the effect of very low frequency electrical stimulation, is fully warranted by these preliminary findings.
Together with the Farmers: Social and Rural Medicine in Japan
Authors: ABRAMS HERBERT K.
Published: November 2004

Japan emerged from feudalism a century ago. Farmers comprise 20 percent of the population of 110 million. The agricultural cooperative movement sponsors 118 hospitals in rural areas. Of these, the Saku Central Hospital is the largest, and provide leadership to a vigorous rural health movement. Its unique outreach program and its contributions to rural health are described, together with remarks about Japan's health sitution generally. There may be lessons here for American.
Transcultural Aspects of Psychiatric Patients in Qatar
Authors: EL-ISLAM M. FAKHR
Published: November 2004

The illness behaviour of Qutari psychiatric patients is defined by the nature of their symptomatology. The importance of somatic symptoms is determining the patient role and patient-doctor relationship is discussed in the light of cultural characteristics of the Qutari community. Delusory cultural beliefs related to possession, sorcery and envy provide a conceptual framework of explanation of many disorders. Inter-generational conflict is an important factor in neurotic disorders.

Failure to report symptoms in an abstract fashion is characteristic of Qatari patients. The cultural and religious heritage absorbs many behaviours which would otherwise be considered symptomatic of psychiatric disorder.
A Study of Electrical Stimulation of Acupuncture Locus Tsusanli (St-36) on Mesenteric Microcirculation
Authors: Lee Genius T. C.
Published: November 2004

The effect of low threshold electrical stimulation via acupuncture of classical acupuncture locus tsusanli was studied in rats with light anesthesia. A remarkable decrease of RBC velocities in mesenteric vessels and a fall of carotid arterial pressure occurred during stimulation. An inhibition of sympathetic vasoconstrictor activity by stimulating the conventional meridian loci was the mechanism which could be justifiably postulated.
Science in the Contemporary World: The Human Implications of Scientific Advance
Authors: Richardson Jacques G.
Published: November 2004

The following comments were presented at an international symposium entitled The Symposium on Rational Social Use of Health Resources which was held in Milan, Italy December 5-6, 1975.
Potential Anti-fertility Plants from Chinese Medicine
Authors: Kong Yun Cheung , Hu Shiu Ying , Lau Fung Kui , Che Chun Tao , Yueng Hin Wing , Cheung Siu , Hwang Joseph Chi Chiu
Published: November 2004

A brief review of the history of development of Chinese pharmacognosy and its application to gynecology and obstetrics is presented. An evaluation system is introduced for short-listing some potentially useful anti-fertility plants. Twenty such plants are listed in order of priority according to our evaluation system. Brief descriptions of botancy, phytochemistry and reputed biological effects are provided. It is hoped that this article may provide an impetus for the development of new anti-fertility agents.
The Haemostatic Effects of the Chinese Herbal Drug Yunnan Bai Yao: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ogle Clive W. , Dai Sorter , Ma James C. N.
Published: November 2004

The effects of Yunnan Bai Yao on the bleeding time in rats and the blood clotting time in rabbits and man were studied. The medicinal preparation markedly shortened both the bleeding the clotting times; the decreases were significantly more intense than those inconsistently produced by starch or by starch with calcium. These preliminary findings suggest that the action of Yunnan Bai Yao appears not to be due to its pH (5.2) or to vasoconstriction, but other factors such as its calcium content or the physical effect of its particle size cannot yet be excluded.
Nuclear Medicine and Cancer Research in the People's Republic of China
Authors: Yeh Samuel D. J.
Published: November 2004

This article reports the experience of the author's recent visit to China where he witnessed nuclear medicine facilities. Among other things, the author observes that most imaging equipment and radionuclides are made in China and that many good textbooks of nuclear medicine are available in Chinese. Precautions on radiation safety are very much stressed. Chinese medicinal plants are always added in order to improve the therapeutic effects of classical chemotherapeutic agents or to lessen their possible side effects. Their scientific value cannot be evaluated, nor can it be for the "anti-cancer pills" that are sold freely. The author encourages studies of different patterns of cancer problems in different geographic localities, as he gave indications for a few geographic areas.
Successful Use of Chinese Medicine and Corticosteroid for Pemphigus Erythematosus (Senear-Usher Syndrome)
Authors: Arichi Shigeru , Abe Hiroko , Tani Tadato
Published: November 2004

Chinese medicine was used in the treatment of a patient with pemphigus vulgaris in combination with corticosteroid (bethamethasone). Results indicate that the use of Chinese medicine in combination with corticosteroid is a highly effective treatment method for pemphigus erythematosus.
Simple Low Cost Stimulator for Electroacupuncture
Authors: Leandri Massimo
Published: November 2004

A simple low cost stimulator for electroacupuncture is described. The stimulator can be used with needle electrodes or with surface electrodes.
Effect of Electro-acupuncture on Behavioral Responses and Plasma Levels of ACTH and TSH in Naloxone-Induced Morphine Withdrawal in Rats
Authors: Fung K. P. , Choa Gerald H. , Choy Y. M. , Lee C. Y. , Leung K. C. , Tsang D. , Tso W. W. , Wen H. L.
Published: November 2004

Acupuncture with electrical stimulation effectively suppresses naloxone-induced morphine withdrawal in rats and reduces the plasma levels of adrenocorticotropin and thyroid stimulating hormone.
An Examination of the Influence of Traditional Therapeutic Systems on the Practice of Cosmopolitan Medicine in Japan
Authors: Lock Margaret M.
Published: November 2004

The Japanese health care system is frequently criticized within Japan for the over prescription of medication. This problem is analyzed by examining the modern medical system as a cultural construct. Attitudes towards medication derived from the traditional East Asian medical system are delineated and their reinforcement through other cultural institutions is discussed. The implications of the persistence of these attitudes for contemporary medical practice is presented.
Oriental Medicine: "A Computerized Study of Complex Recipes and Their Components: Analysis of Recipes Intended to Cure Certain Diseases"
Authors: Brekhman I. I. , Grinevitch M. A.
Published: November 2004

A complex computer study was undertaken to find the plants playing the major role in recipes intended to cure specific diseases. Ten groups recipes were investigated and the most frequently occuring plants were identified as the "nucleus" of the complex recipes. These important plants have different actions from one another and many others occurring possess tonic properties.