bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship of deiodinase 1 genotype and thyroid function to lifetime history of major depression in three independent populations
Authors: Philibert Robert A. , Beach Steven R.H. , Gunter Tracy D. , Todorov Alexandre A. , Brody Gene H. , Vijayendran Meeshanthini , Elliott Lilly , Hollenbeck Nancy , Russell Daniel , Cutrona Carolyn
Published: May 2011

Major depression (MD) is often associated with disturbances of the hypothalamic/pituitary/thyroid (HPT) axis. Unfortunately, whether this association is secondary to common underlying genetic variation or whether the MD‐associated disturbances in HPT function are chronic or state‐dependent is unknown. To examine these questions, we genotyped 12 single nucleotide polymorphisms identified in previous genome wide association analyses of thyroid function in DNA contributed by 1,555 subjects from three longitudinal ethnically diverse studies that are well‐characterized for lifetime MD and thyroid function. We then examined associations between genetic variants and key outcomes of thyroid stimulating hormone, free thyroxine (FT4) and depression. We confirmed prior findings that two variants in deiodinase 1 (DIO1), including a variant in the 3′UTR of DIO1 (rs11206244), were associated with altered FT4 levels in both White and African American subjects. We also found that rs11206244 genotype was associated with lifetime MD in White female subjects, in particular those from high‐risk cohorts. However, we found no association of current FT4 levels with lifetime MD in either ethnic group. We conclude that genetic variation influencing thyroid function is a risk factor for MD. Given the evidence from prior studies, further investigations of role of HPT variation in etiology and treatment of MD are indicated. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Baboon (Papio anubis) social complexity—a network approach
Authors: Lehmann Julia , Ross Caroline
Published: May 2011

Although many studies have analyzed the causes and consequences of social relationships, few studies have explicitly assessed how measures of social relationships are affected by the choice of behaviors used to quantify them. The use of many behaviors to measure social relationships in primates has long been advocated, but it was analytically difficult to implement this framework into primatological work. However, recent advances in social network analysis (SNA) now allow the comparison of multiple networks created from different behaviors. Here we use our database of baboon social behavior (Papio anubis, Gashaka Gumti National Park, Nigeria) to investigate (i) to what extent social networks created from different behaviors overlap, (ii) to what extent individuals occupy similar social positions in these networks and (iii) how sex affects social network position in this population of baboons. We used data on grooming, aggression, displacement, mounting and presenting, which were collected over a 15‐month period. We calculated network parameters separately for each behavior. Networks based on displacement, mounting and presenting were very similar to each other, whereas grooming and aggression networks differed both from each other and from mounting, displacement and presenting networks. Overall, individual network positions were strongly affected by sex. Individuals central in one network tended to be central in most other networks as well, whereas other measures such as clustering coefficient were found to vary depending on the behavior analyzed. Thus, our results suggest that a baboon's social environment is best described by a multiplex network based on affiliative, aggressive and sexual behavior. Modern SNA provides a number of useful tools that will help us to better understand animals' social environment. We also discuss potential caveats related to their use. Am. J. Primatol. 73:775–789, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Evolution of the blood–brain barrier in newly forming multiple sclerosis lesions
Authors: Gaitán María I. , Shea Colin D. , Evangelou Iordanis E. , Stone Roger D. , Fenton Kaylan M. , Bielekova Bibiana , Massacesi Luca , Reich Daniel S.
Published: May 2011

Objective:

Multiple sclerosis (MS) lesions develop around small, inflamed veins. New lesions enhance with gadolinium on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), reflecting disruption of the blood–brain barrier (BBB). Single time point results from pathology and standard MRI cannot capture the spatiotemporal expansion of lesions. We investigated the development and expansion of new MS lesions, focusing on the dynamics of BBB permeability.

Methods:

We performed dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) MRI in relapsing–remitting MS. We obtained data over 65 minutes, during and after gadolinium injection. We labeled spatiotemporal enhancement dynamics as centrifugal when initially central enhancement expanded outward and centripetal when initially peripheral enhancement gradually filled the center.

Results:

We detected 34 enhancing lesions in 200 DCE‐MRI scans. In 65%, enhancement first appeared as a closed ring; in 18%, as a nodule; and in 18%, as an open ring. Lesions with initially nodular enhancement were smaller than those initially enhancing as rings (p < 0.0001). All initially nodular lesions enhanced centrifugally, whereas initially ringlike lesions enhanced centripetally, becoming nodular if small (82%) or nearly nodular if larger (18%). Open‐ring lesions were periventricular or juxtacortical and enhanced centripetally. Centrifugally enhancing lesions evolved into centripetally enhancing lesions over several days.

Interpretation:

The rapid change of enhancement dynamics from centrifugal to centripetal reflects the outward growth of MS lesions around their central vein and suggests that factors mediating lesion growth and tissue repair derive from different locations at different times. We propose a model of new lesion growth that unites our imaging observations with existing pathology data. ANN NEUROL 2011;
Defective sumoylation pathway directs congenital heart disease
Authors: Wang Jun , Chen Li , Wen Shu , Zhu Huiping , Yu Wei , Moskowitz Ivan P. , Shaw Gary M. , Finnell Richard H. , Schwartz Robert J.
Published: May 2011

Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are the most common of all birth defects, yet molecular mechanism(s) underlying highly prevalent atrial septal defects (ASDs) and ventricular septal defects (VSDs) have remained elusive. We demonstrate the indispensability of “balanced” posttranslational small ubiquitin‐like modifier (SUMO) conjugation‐deconjugation pathway for normal cardiac development. Both hetero‐ and homozygous SUMO‐1 knockout mice exhibited ASDs and VSDs with high mortality rates, which were rescued by cardiac reexpression of the SUMO‐1 transgene. Because SUMO‐1 was also involved in cleft lip/palate in human patients, the previous findings provided a powerful rationale to question whether SUMO‐1 was mutated in infants born with cleft palates and ASDs. Sequence analysis of DNA from newborn screening blood spots revealed a single 16 bp substitution in the SUMO‐1 regulatory promoter of a patient displaying both oral‐facial clefts and ASDs. Diminished sumoylation activity whether by genetics, environmental toxins, and/or pharmaceuticals may significantly contribute to susceptibility to the induction of congenital heart disease worldwide. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Thermodynamic Simulation of CO2 Capture for an IGCC Power Plant using the Calcium Looping Cycle
Authors: Li Y. , Zhao C. , Ren Q.
Published: May 2011

A CO2 capture process for an integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) power plant using the calcium looping cycle was proposed. The CO2 capture process using natural and modified limestone was simulated and investigated with the software package Aspen Plus. It incorporated a fresh feed of sorbent to compensate for the decay in CO2 capture activity during long‐term cycles. The sorbent flow ratios have significant effect on the CO2 capture efficiency and net efficiency of the CO2 capture system. The IGCC power plant, using the modified limestone, exhibits higher CO2 capture efficiency than that using the natural limetone at the same sorbent flow ratios. The system net efficiency using the natural and modified limestones achieves 41.7 % and 43.1 %, respectively, at the CO2 capture efficiency of 90 % without the effect of sulfation.
Comprehensive Polymerization Model for Fischer‐Tropsch Synthesis
Authors: Fontenelle A. B. , Fernandes F. A. N.
Published: May 2011

The polymerization kinetics of Fischer‐Tropsch reactions on a cobalt‐based catalyst was studied. A kinetic model was developed based on the alkyl and alkenyl mechanisms for hydrocarbon chain propagation that may occur simultaneously in the Fischer‐Tropsch synthesis. The kinetic model comprised initiation of hydrocarbon chains, propagation, termination to paraffin and olefin and readsorption of olefin. The proposed model was validated by F‐test and proved valid at a confidence level of 95 %.
Modeling and Numerical Simulation of the Gas‐Induced Breakup of Liquid Threads Stretched by Gravity
Authors: Gramlich S. , Mescher A. , Piesche M. , Walzel P.
Published: May 2011

Sprays with narrowly distributed drop sizes can be produced by atomization systems operating according to the principle of breakup of stretched liquid threads. The mean drop size depending on the process parameters is of major interest for a reliable process design. Thus, a model for the description of the breakup process of stretched liquid threads with laminar flow is introduced. Thread extension by gravity and gas‐induced disturbances are considered in order to predict the mean droplet size. The numerical and experimental results exhibit satisfying accordance.
The interplay of resource provisioning and workflow optimization in scientific applications
Authors: Singh Gurmeet , Deelman Ewa
Published: May 2011

In this paper, we propose resource provisioning as the means to reduce the completion time of scientific workflows in a Grid environment. We propose task clustering as a form of workflow optimization that can be used along with provisioning in order to achieve this reduction in completion time. Provisioning can be done statically using advance reservations (ARs) or using dynamic provisioning mechanisms. A simulation is done using the Maui simulator, a workload trace collected from the NCSA Teragrid cluster and 13 workflows to study the effect of provisioning on the completion time of the scientific workflows. The results show in general a reduction of about 50% in the workflow completion time using provisioning for the First In First Out and fair share scheduling policies. In this paper, we also examine the cost of resource provisioning and propose a utilization‐based metric that can be used to guide the provisioning decisions in order to reduce the cost. Finally, we present the results of a survey on the support of AR at the Grid sites. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A cross‐layer TCP for providing fairness in wireless mesh networks
Authors: Ye Jin , Wang Jian‐Xin , Huang Jia‐Wei
Published: May 2011

The fair allocation of resources among different nodes is one of the critical problems in wireless mesh networks. Existing solutions mainly focus on rate‐limitation policies or distributed fair MAC schemes at the potential expense of total network utilization. This paper investigates a special starvation problem among TCP flows that are different hops away from the BS, as well as its recently proposed solution, the ‘Minimum Content Window’ policy based on IEEE 802.11e. It is found that the aggregate throughput degrades sharply because the effect of this policy on the TCP congestion mechanism has been overlooked. This paper proposes a priority‐based congestion control by using ‘Cross‐Layer Explicit Congestion Notification’. Analysis and simulation results demonstrate that our scheme can improve the fairness of TCP flows while the aggregate throughput is at least 20% higher than the ‘Minimum Content Window’ policy. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cutaneous metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma diagnosed by fine needle aspiration cytology and Hep Par 1 immunopositivity
Authors: Isa Nurismah Md. , Bong Jan Jin , Ghani Fauzah Abd. , Rose Isa Mohamed , Husain Salina , Azrif Muhammad
Published: May 2011

Cutaneous metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is very rare, accounting for less than 0.8% of all known cutaneous metastases and occurring in 2.7–3.4% of HCCs. With less than 50 such cases reported worldwide, most of which were diagnosed histologically on excised lesions, it can only be expected that diagnosis made on cytological features alone would be challenging. We report a case of cutaneous metastasis of HCC diagnosed based on cytological features and confirmed by Hep Par 1 immunopositivity of the cell block material. An 81‐year‐old man, who was known to have unresectable HCC, presented with a 1‐month history of painless, left nasal alae mass. The mass measured 1.5 cm in diameter, and was multilobulated with a central necrosis. Fine needle aspiration of the mass was done. Smears were cellular, comprising of malignant cells in loose clusters and aggregates as well as singly dispersed. The malignant cells displayed moderate nuclear pleomorphism, occasional prominent nucleoli, and intranuclear pseudoinclusion. Cell block material demonstrated the trabeculae pattern of the malignant cells and Hep Par 1 immunopositivity. The final diagnosis of a metastatic cutaneous HCC was made. In conclusion, cutaneous HCC metastasis is rare and should be considered in the differential diagnosis in patients with a history of HCC presenting with suspicious skin lesion. In the right clinical setting, a confident diagnosis can be made in such cases by using the fine needle aspiration technique aided with immunopositivity for Hep Par 1 antibody of the aspirated material. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Inflammatory pseudotumor of the spleen: A rare case diagnosed on FNAC
Authors: Mundi Irneet , Singhal Niti , Punia R. P. S. , Dalal Usha , Mohan Harsh
Published: May 2011

Inflammatory pseudotumor (IPT) is a rare space‐occupying lesion of unknown etiology that can mimic malignancy on clinic‐radiological and pathological examination. We present a case of IPT of the spleen which was clinically suspected to be malignant. This case was initially suggested accurately on fine needle aspiration (FNA) of the mass and subsequently confirmed on histopathology of the resected specimen. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synaptic vesicle trafficking and Parkinson's disease
Authors: Esposito Giovanni , Ana Clara Fernandes , Verstreken Patrik
Published: May 2011

Presynaptic terminals maintain neurotransmitter release during repeated rounds of stimulation using local recycling of synaptic vesicles (SV). During each SV cycle, protein complex assembly and disassembly results in accumulation of inactive (unfolded) protein intermediates that may render synaptic terminals vulnerable to activity‐dependent degeneration. SV trafficking is affected in many neurodegenerative conditions including Alzheimer' and Parkinson's disease (PD) suggesting that alteration of this process might be an important aspect of disease pathogenesis. This article reviews our current understanding for a role of causative PD genes in the SV cycle and speculates on the potential role of aberrant SV trafficking in the neurodegenerative cascade of PD. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 72: 134–144, 2012
Evaluation of protein loading techniques and improved separation in OFFGEL isoelectric focusing
Authors: Keidel Eva‐Maria , Dosch Dominik , Brunner Achim , Kellermann Josef , Lottspeich Friedrich
Published: May 2011

2‐DE proved to be a key technology in protein science since the two orthogonal separation dimensions are capable of protein isoform separation. Recently, Agilent introduced the OFFGEL 3100 fractionator for in solution IEF (off‐gel) of proteins with the help of a 12‐ or 24‐well frame. With this instrument also conventional focusing in IPG strips after passive in‐tray rehydration can be performed. In this study, two novel IEF applications using the OFFGEL electrophoresis were developed. First, a sample cup was built and a cup‐loading method for the OFFGEL device was implemented. Applying proteins via cup resulted in higher reproducibility and less protein loss compared with conventional in‐tray rehydration loading. Especially, the recovery of basic and high‐molecular‐mass proteins seems to be favored by cup loading. These effects are more pronounced with low microgram sample amounts. Second, a 48‐well OFFGEL frame was developed, which doubles the resolution of the commercially available 24‐well frame. It is capable of separating proteins with small pI differences and shows potential for isoform/PTM separation.
Frequent genetic abnormalities of the PI3K/AKT pathway in primary ovarian cancer predict patient outcome
Authors: Huang Jia , Zhang Lin , Greshock Joel , Colligon Theresa A. , Wang Yan , Ward Renee , Katsaros Dionyssios , Lassus Heini , Butzow Ralf , Godwin Andrew K. , Testa Joseph R. , Nathanson Katherine L. , Gimotty Phyllis A. , Coukos George , Weber Barbara L. , Degenhardt Yan
Published: May 2011

Identification and characterization of underlying genetic aberrations could facilitate diagnosis and treatment of ovarian cancer. Copy number analysis using array Comparative Genomic Hybridization (aCGH) on 93 primary ovarian tumors identified PI3K/AKT pathway as the most frequently altered cancer related pathway. Furthermore, survival analyses to correlate gene copy number and mutation data with patient outcome showed that copy number gains of PIK3CA, PIK3CB, and PIK3R4 in these tumors were associated with decreased survival. To confirm these findings at the protein level, immunohistochemistry (IHC) for PIK3CA product p110α and p‐Akt was performed on tissue microarrays from 522 independent serous ovarian cancers. Overexpression of either of these two proteins was found to be associated with decreased survival. Multivariant analysis from these samples further showed that overexpression of p‐AKT and/or p110α is an independent prognostic factor for these tumors. siRNAs targeting altered PI3K/AKT pathway genes inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis in ovarian cancer cell lines. In addition, the effect of the siRNAs in different cell lines seemed to correlate with the particular genetic alterations that the cell line carries. These results strongly support the utilization of PI3K pathway inhibitors in ovarian cancer. They also suggest identifying the specific component in the PI3K pathway that is genetically altered has the potential to help select the most effective therapy. Both mutation as well as copy number changes can be used as predictive markers for this purpose. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Gene expression and single nucleotide polymorphism array analyses of spindle cell lipomas and conventional lipomas with 13q14 deletion
Authors: Bartuma Hammurabi , Nord Karolin H. , Macchia Gemma , Isaksson Margareth , Nilsson Jenny , Domanski Henryk A. , Mandahl Nils , Mertens Fredrik
Published: May 2011

Spindle cell lipomas (SCL) are circumscribed, usually s.c. tumors that typically occur on the posterior neck, shoulder, and back of middle aged men. Cytogenetically, almost all SCL are characterized by deletions of chromosome arm 13q, often in combination with loss of 16q. Deletions of 13q are seen also in approximately 15% of conventional lipomas. Through single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array analyses, we identified two minimal deleted regions (MDR) in 13q14 in SCL. In MDR1, four genes were located, including the tumor suppressor gene RB1. MDR1 in SCL overlapped with the MDR detected in conventional lipomas with 13q14 deletion. In MDR2 in SCL there were 34 genes and the two microRNA (miRNA) genes miR‐15a and miR‐16‐1. Global gene expression analysis was used to study the impact of the deletions on genes mapping to the two SCL‐associated MDR. Five genes (C13orf1, DHRS12, ATP7B, ALG11, and VPS36) in SCL and one gene (C13orf1) in conventional lipomas with 13q‐deletions were found to be significantly underexpressed compared with control tissues. Quantitative real‐time PCR showed that miR‐16‐1 was expressed at lower levels in SCL than in the control samples. No mutations were found at sequencing of RB1, miR‐15a, and miR‐16‐1. Our findings further delineate the target region for the 13q deletion in SCL and conventional lipomas and show that the deletions are associated with down‐regulated expression of several genes, notably C13orf1, which was the only gene to be significantly down‐regulated in both tumor types. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Caregiver burden, health utilities, and institutional service use in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Miller Edward Alan , Rosenheck Robert A. , Schneider Lon S.
Published: May 2011

Objective

This study examined the moderating effect of caregiver burden on the relationship between the health status of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients and their use of institutional services (i.e., hospitalization, nursing home, and residential care).

Methods

Data were obtained at baseline and at 3, 6, and 9 months following study entry on 421 community‐dwelling patients with AD in the Clinical Antipsychotic Trials of Intervention Effectiveness for AD. The outcome variable includes use of any institutional services. Logistic regression was employed to estimate the interaction between Health Utility Index Mark III score (a general health status measure) and four concurrent caregiver burden measures at outcome. Marginal effects were calculated and plotted using random effects models for observations at multiple time points per individual. Average effects were calculated across all observations using models without random effects.

Results

Random effects results suggest that caregiver burden weakens the inverse relationship between health utilities and institutional service use, leading to greater likelihood of institutional use than would be expected at a given level of health. This is indicated by positive and significant signs on the Health Utility Index Mark III*caregiver burden interaction when burden is measured using the Caregiver Distress Scale, Beck Depression Inventory, and Caregiver Assessment Survey (all p < 0.05). It is reinforced by positive and significant average effects deriving from Caregiver Distress and Beck Depression Inventory models without random effects (both p < 0.10). Results derived from the Burden Interview Scale, although positive, were non‐significant and weak by comparison.

Conclusion

Caregiver support interventions should be offered to individuals caring for less‐advanced AD patients. Otherwise, healthy patients may be at increased risk for institutionalization when caregivers experience high levels of burden. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Apolipoprotein E genotype‐specific short‐term cognitive benefits of treatment with the antihypertensive nilvadipine in Alzheimer's patients—an open‐label trial
Authors: Kennelly Sean , Abdullah Laila , Kenny Rose Anne , Mathura Venkat , Luis Cheryl A. , Mouzon Benoit , Crawford Fiona , Mullan Michael , Lawlor Brian
Published: May 2011

Background

Evidence suggests that dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers may be useful in preventing and treating Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Objective

In an open‐label trial of safety and tolerability of nilvadipine in patients with AD, we examined cognition and executive function over a short time period to determine an influence of nilvadipine on these outcomes.

Method

We investigated change in cognition using the Mini mental state examination and in executive function using the EXIT25 in 55 patients with AD who received nilvadipine 8 mg daily for 6 weeks compared with 30 non‐treated subjects with AD. Apolipoprotein E genotyping was performed, and the study team and caregivers were kept blinded to APOE ε4 status during the trial.

Results

Aside from differences in gender and education, both the treatment and the control groups were similar in general demographics and on baseline cognition status. After correction for potential confounders, APOE ε4 status, and use of other antihypertensive medications, a significant impact of study intervention was observed on MMSE (F = 8.67, p < 0.01) and EXIT (F = 8.77, p < 0.03) scores. An interaction between APOE ε4 carrier status and treatment (p ≤ 0.05) was observed for both outcome measures.

Conclusion

In this open‐label trial, among APOE ε4 non‐carriers, we observed stabilization of cognition and improvement in executive function among treated individuals compared with non‐treated individuals. Among APOE ε4 carriers, cognitive stabilization was evident for treated individuals whereas a cognitive decline was observed in non‐treated individuals. These findings provide additional evidence for potential therapeutic efficacy of nilvadipine in treating AD and warrant further investigation. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Team error analysis in a digitalized control room by using a novel crew reliability model
Authors: Yang Chih‐Wei , Yenn Tzu‐Chung , Lin Chiuhsiang Joe
Published: May 2011

This study is designed to develop a crew reliability model (CRM) for analyzing human errors in a digitalized control room. Human–system interfaces (HSIs) in the main control room (MCR) recently have changed most significantly with the digitalization of HSIs. Ensuring the safe operation of nuclear power plants (NPPs) is an important driver of these changes. Probabilistic risk assessment (PRA) is one of the most common methods to respond to these changes. Analysis of the system, structure and components, as well as that of humans, is equally important in the PRA. PRA uses human reliability analysis (HRA) to assess human risk. HRA tools can be classified into first and second generations. However, neither of these generations emphasizes the investigation of crew tasks. This study thus further explores teamwork concepts in the HRA method. This study developed a crew reliability model. Finally, this study implemented an example of the digitalized MCR to describe the CRM procedures. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
In situ follicular lymphoma: pathologic characteristics and diagnostic features
Authors: Carbone Antonino , Gloghini Annunziata , Santoro Armando
Published: May 2011

The diagnosis of in situ follicular lymphoma (FL) is feasible when immunohistochemical characterization is carried out and genetic abnormalities are assessed. We usually use a selected diagnostic panel of antibodies (CD10, CD20, CD23, BCL2, BCL6, and Ki67) in lymph nodes with follicular hyperplasia only when we analyze an unexplained lymphadenopathy. Molecular studies, for example, fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis for t(14;18), are restricted to doubtful cases in which immunohistochemistry data are ambiguous. Immunohistochemically, the involved follicles show strongly positive staining for BCL2 and CD10. The BCL2+ cells are confined only to germinal centers and are not seen in the interfollicular region or elsewhere in the lymph node. The BCL2 staining in the abnormal follicles is notable for its high‐level and uniform intensity. In situ FL may be associated with overt FL or with lymphomas other than FL or with other malignancies. The crucial point relies on distinguishing in situ FL arising in asymptomatic patients from cases with presence of lymphoma at the same or other sites. Other open questions remain on the frequency with which in situ FLs occur and the frequency of concomitant systemic disease. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cucurbituril: At the Interface of Small Molecule Host–Guest Chemistry and Dynamic Aggregates
Authors: Das Debapratim , Scherman Oren A.
Published: May 2011

The remarkable guest binding behavior of the synthetic receptors, cucurbit[n]uril, has gained tremendous attention over the past few decades. The stronger and more selective encapsulation of small guests has opened up the possibility to develop multi‐component, dynamic yet controlled supramolecular aggregated architectures for a wide variety of applications. Isolation of larger homologues and derivatives have expanded the scope further, and interest has grown exponentially. Applications of these unique synthetic receptors presently range from polymeric smart materials and wet nanotechnology to sensing and protein conjugation. This review highlights such examples from recent literature on the development of new dynamic supramolecular aggregates and composites using cucurbituril host–guest chemistry.
Surface functionalization of poly(ε‐caprolactone) improves its biocompatibility as scaffold material for bioartificial vessel prostheses
Authors: Wulf Katharina , Teske Michael , Löbler Marian , Luderer Frank , Schmitz Klaus‐Peter , Sternberg Katrin
Published: May 2011

Within this study, chemically modified polymer surfaces were to be developed, which should enhance the subsequent immobilization of various bioactive substances. To improve the hemocompatibility and endothelialization of poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) intended as scaffold material for bioartificial vessel prostheses, terminal amino groups via ammonia (NH3) plasma, oxygen (O2) plasma/aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES), and 4,4′‐methylenebis(phenyl isocyanate) (MDI)/water were provided. Then, immobilization of the anti‐inflammatory and antithrombogenic model drug acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were performed by employingN,N‐disuccinimidyl carbonate (DSC) as crosslinker. Contact angle and fluorescence measurements, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and infrared spectroscopy confirmed the surface modification. Here the highest functionalization was observed for the O2plasma/APTES modification. Furthermore, biocompatibility studies demonstrated that the surface reactions have no negative influence, neither on the viability of L929 mouse fibroblasts, nor on primary or secondary hemostasis. Release studies showed that the immobilization of ASA and VEGF on the modified PCL surface via DSC is greatly improved compared to the adsorption‐only reference. The advantage of DSC is that it immobilizes both bioactive substances via non‐hydrolyzable and/or hydrolyzable covalent bonding. The highest ASA loading and cumulative release was detected using NH3plasma‐activated PCL samples. For VEGF, the O2plasma/APTES‐modified PCL samples were most efficient with regard to loading and cumulative release. In conclusion, both modifications are promising methods to optimize PCL as scaffold material for bioartificial vessel prostheses. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2011.
Long‐term animal implantation study of biotube‐autologous small‐caliber vascular graft fabricated by in‐body tissue architecture
Authors: Watanabe Taiji , Kanda Keiichi , Yamanami Masashi , Ishibashi‐Ueda Hatsue , Yaku Hitoshi , Nakayama Yasuhide
Published: May 2011

A mold for the preparation of an in‐body tissue architecture‐induced autologous vascular graft, termed “biotube,” was prepared by covering a main silicone rod (outer diameter, 3 mm; length, 30 mm) with two pieces of polyurethane sponge tubes (internal diameter, 3 mm; length, 3 mm) at both ends. The molds were embedded into the dorsal subcutaneous pouch of rabbits (weighing ca. 2 kg) for 2 months. After harvesting the rods with the formed surrounding tissues, the rods were removed to create biotubes impregnated with anastomotic reinforcement cuffs at both ends. The biotubes had homogeneous, thin connective tissue wall (thickness, 76 ± 37 μm) that was primarily composed of collagen and fibroblasts. One biotube was loaded with argatroban and autoimplanted in the carotid artery for 26 months. Neither antiplatelet nor anticoagulant agents were administered, except for an intraoperative heparin injection. Follow‐up angiography showed no aneurysm formation, rupturing, or stenosis during implantation. At the end of implantation, the wall thickness of biotube (212 ± 24 μm at the anastomosis portion and 150 ± 14 μm at the midportion) was similar to that of native artery (189 ± 23 μm). The luminal surface was completely covered with endothelial cells on the formed lamina elastica interna‐like layer. The regenerated vascular walls comprised multilayered smooth muscle cells and dense collagen fibers with regular circumferential orientation. A remarkable multilayered elastin fiber network was observed near the anastomosis portion. Biotubes could thus be used as small‐caliber vascular prostheses that greatly facilitate the healing process and exhibit excellent biocompatibility. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2011.
Evaluation of a Global Positioning System backpack transmitter for wild turkey research
Authors: Guthrie Joshua D. , Byrne Michael E. , Hardin Jason B. , Kochanny Christopher O. , Skow Kevin L. , Snelgrove Robert T. , Butler Matthew J. , Peterson Markus J. , Chamberlain Michael J. , Collier Bret A.
Published: May 2011

Radiotelemetry is the standard method for monitoring wild turkey (Meleagris gallapavo) movements and habitat use. Spatial data collected using telemetry‐based monitoring are frequently inaccurate due to triangulation error. However, new technology, such as Global Positioning Systems (GPS) has increased ecologists' ability to accurately evaluate animal movements and habitat selection. We evaluated the efficacy of micro‐GPS backpack units for use on wild turkeys. We tested a micro‐GPS developed specifically for avian species that incorporated a GPS antenna with a lightweight rechargeable battery and a very high frequency (VHF) transmitter. We conducted a series of static tests to evaluate performance in varying types of vegetative canopy cover and terrain. After static testing, we deployed micro‐GPS on 8 adult male Rio Grande wild turkeys (M. g. intermedia) trapped in south Texas and 2 adult females trapped in the Texas panhandle. Micro‐GPS units collected 26,439 locations out of 26,506 scheduled attempts (99.7% fix rate) during static testing. Mean distance error across all static tests was 15.5 m (SE = 0.1). In summer 2009, we recovered micro‐GPS from 4 tagged males and both females to evaluate data collection. Units on males acquired approximately 2,500 locations over a 65‐day test period (94.5% fix rate). We recovered units from the 2 females after 19 days and 53 days; those units acquired 301 and 837 locations, respectively, for a 96% fix rate. Cost analysis indicated that VHF will be cost effective when 1 location per day is required up to 181 days, but micro‐GPS becomes less expensive as frequency of daily locations increases. Our results indicate that micro‐GPS have the potential to provide increased reliable data on turkey movement ecology and habitat selection at a higher resolution than conventional VHF telemetric methods. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Nest success of grassland sparrows on reclaimed surface mines
Authors: Stauffer Glenn E. , Diefenbach Duane R. , Marshall Matthew R. , Brauning Daniel W.
Published: May 2011

Grasslands resulting from surface mine reclamation support grassland songbird populations in several midwestern and eastern states in the United States, especially where reclaimed mines are large (>1,000 ha). However, most reclaimed surface mines in Pennsylvania are small (<200 ha), and nest success is unknown. We evaluated nest success of grasshopper (Ammodramus savannarum), Henslow's (A. henslowii), and Savannah sparrows (Passerculus sandwichensis) on 4 reclaimed surface mines (50–180 ha) in western Pennsylvania, USA from 2006 to 2007. Overall nest success based on mean covariate values was 0.435 (95% CI = 0.376–0.504) for grasshopper sparrows, 0.396 (95% CI = 0.295–0.533) for Henslow's sparrows, and 0.158 (95% CI = 0.063–0.392) for Savannah sparrows. These estimates of nest success are comparable to those on larger reclaimed mines and other habitats. Grasshopper and Henslow's sparrow nests that were well concealed were less likely to fail than highly visible nests (βvisible = −0.028, CI = −0.051 to −0.005 for grasshopper sparrows; βvisible = −0.063, CI = −0.112 to −0.014 for Henslow's sparrows), and nests in areas with surrounding deep litter were more likely to fail than nests in areas with shallow litter (βlitterD = −0.145, CI = −0.335 to 0.045 for grasshopper sparrows; βlitterD = −0.676, CI = −1.187 to −0.116 for Henslow's sparrows). Savannah sparrow nests in areas with high visual obstruction by vegetation were less likely to fail than nests in areas with sparse and short vegetation (βVisOb = 0.048, CI = 0.006–0.091). Daily probability of survival for grasshopper sparrow nests was greatest early and late in the breeding season, and Savannah sparrow nest survival followed a decreasing linear trend. Nest survival of Henslow's sparrows was greater on warm days (βtemp = 0.197, CI = 0.014–0.379), whereas for Savannah sparrows nest survival decreased on warm days and on days with rain, but for Savannah sparrows confidence intervals of weather effects included zero (βtemp = −0.098, CI = −0.246 to 0.050; βrain = 3.13, CI = −14.19 to 20.45). We suggest that small reclaimed surface mine grasslands can provide valuable nesting habitat and could be important to the conservation of grassland bird populations. Because nest success can increase in the latter part of the nesting season, agricultural disturbances or management activities in mid‐ to late summer could adversely affect reproductive success. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Freshwater turtle conservation in Texas: harvest effects and efficacy of the current management regime
Authors: Brown Donald J. , Farallo Vincent R. , Dixon James R. , Baccus John T. , Simpson Thomas R. , Forstner Michael R. J.
Published: May 2011

The collapse of Asian turtle populations led to the creation of a worldwide freshwater turtle market in the 1990s. Texas is one of several states in the United States that has capitalized on this market. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) recently instituted regulations designed to protect turtles from commercial harvest in public waters. Two counties in the Lower Rio Grande Valley (LRGV) accounted for 66.1% of known wild turtle harvest in 1999, with no reported harvest in subsequent years. We sampled 60 sites in the LRGV to determine if we could detect harvest effects. We also investigated the potential for sustainable harvest under the new harvest guidelines using source‐sink dynamics implemented in a Geographic Information System (GIS) approach. We detected differences congruent with harvest effects for red‐eared sliders (Trachemys scripta) and Texas spiny softshells (Apalone spinifera). Based on a GIS analysis of water bodies throughout the entire state, we estimated that only 2.2% of water bodies are protected under the current commercial harvest regulations. We determined source water bodies could supply 30.5% of sink water bodies in the LRGV, and we concluded that long‐term sustainable turtle harvest is unlikely under the current management regime due to the intensity of commercial harvests, the low number of protected water bodies, and non‐robust or non‐interactive protected populations. One solution to this would be modification of the regulations to include season and bag limits, a management strategy currently implemented in various forms by 14 states in the eastern half of the United States. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
A meta‐analysis of forest age and structure effects on northern flying squirrel densities
Authors: Holloway Gillian L. , Smith Winston P.
Published: May 2011

Research on the impact of clearcut logging and partial harvesting practices on northern flying squirrels (Glaucomys sabrinus) has shown inconsistent and contrary results, limiting the use of this species as a management indicator species. Much of this variability in study results is due to the labor intensive nature of studying flying squirrels, resulting in small sampling sizes (average = 5.2 sites, n = 14) and high variation (CV = 0.59) across studies. We conducted a meta‐analysis of relevant studies from North America to determine how forestry practices affect flying squirrel abundance. Mean effect size was −1.18 (P < 0.001; n = 14) for all studies, indicating a strong difference between control stands and those regenerating postclearcut or following partial harvesting. Our results support the association of northern flying squirrels with mature, uncut forest and their suitability as ecological indicators of these vegetation types. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Resource partitioning between sympatric columbian white‐tailed and black‐tailed deer in western Oregon
Authors: Whitney Lowell W. , Anthony Robert G. , Jackson Dewaine H.
Published: May 2011

We studied resource partitioning between sympatric populations of Columbian white‐tailed (CWTD; Odocoileus virginianus leucurus) and black‐tailed (BWTD) deer (O. odocoileus hemionus columbianus) in western Oregon to understand potential mechanisms of coexistence. We used horseback transects to describe spatial distributions, population overlap, and habitat use for both species, and we studied diets with microhistological analysis of fecal samples. Distribution patterns indicated that white‐tailed and black‐tailed deer maintained spatial separation during most seasons with spatial overlap ranging from 5%–40% seasonally. Coefficients of species association were negative, suggesting a pattern of mutual avoidance. White‐tailed deer were more concentrated in the southern portions of the study area, which was characterized by lower elevations, more gradual slopes, and close proximity to streams. Black‐tailed deer were more wide ranging and tended to occur in the northern portions of the study area, which had higher elevations and greater topographical variation. Habitat use of different vegetative assemblages was similar between white‐tailed and black‐tailed deer with overlap ranging from 89%–96% seasonally. White‐tailed deer used nearly all habitats available on the study area except those associated with conifers. White‐tailed deer used oak‐hardwood savanna shrub, open grassland, oak‐hardwood savanna, and riparian habitats the most. Black‐tailed deer exhibited high use for open grassland and oak‐hardwood savanna shrub habitats and lower use of all others. The 2 subspecies also exhibited strong seasonal similarities in diets with overlap ranging from 89% to 95%. White‐tailed deer diets were dominated by forbs, shrubs, grasses, and other food sources (e.g., nuts and lichens). Columbian black‐tailed deer diets were dominated mostly by forbs and other food sources. Seasonal diet diversity followed similar patterns for both species with the most diverse diets occurring in fall and the least diverse diets in spring. High overlap in habitat use and diets resulted in high trophic overlap (81–85%) between white‐tailed and black‐tailed deer; however, the low spatial overlap reduced the potential for exploitative competition but may have been indicative of inference competition between the species. Diverse habitat and forage opportunities were available on the study area due to heterogeneous landscape characteristics, which allowed ecological separation between white‐tailed and black‐tailed deer despite similarities in diets and habitat use. We make several recommendations for management of CWTD, a previously threatened species, based on the results of our study. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Monitoring bald eagles using lists of nests: Response to Watts and Duerr
Authors: Sauer John R. , Otto Mark C. , Kendall William L. , Zimmerman Guthrie S.
Published: May 2011

The post‐delisting monitoring plan for bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) roposed use of a dual‐frame sample design, in which sampling of known nest sites in combination with additional area‐based sampling is used to estimate total number of nesting bald eagle pairs. Watts and Duerr (2010) used data from repeated observations of bald eagle nests in Virginia, USA to estimate a nest turnover rate and used this rate to simulate decline in number of occupied nests in list nests over time. Results of Watts and Duerr suggest that, given the rates of loss of nests from the list of known nest sites in Virginia, the list information will be of little value to sampling unless lists are constantly updated. Those authors criticize the plan for not placing sufficient emphasis on updating and maintaining lists of bald eagle nests. Watts and Duerr's metric of turnover rate does not distinguish detectability or temporary nonuse of nests from permanent loss of nests and likely overestimates turnover rate. We describe a multi‐state capture–recapture model that allows appropriate estimation of rates of loss of nests, and we use the model to estimate rates of loss from a sample of nests from Maine, USA. The post‐delisting monitoring plan addresses the need to maintain and update the lists of nests, and we show that dual frame sampling is an effective approach for sampling nesting bald eagle populations. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Effects of survey methods on burrowing owl behaviors
Authors: Manning Jeffrey A. , Kaler Robb S. A.
Published: May 2011

Monitoring wildlife populations often involves intensive survey efforts to attain reliable estimates of population size. Such efforts can increase disturbance to animals, alter detection, and bias population estimates. Burrowing owls (Athene cunicularia) are declining across western North America, and information on the relative effects of potential survey methods on owl behaviors is needed. We designed a field experiment to compare burrowing owl flight distances, times displaced, and probabilities of being displaced between 4 potential population survey methods (single walking surveyor, single vehicle stop, single vehicle stop with 2 surveyors, and double vehicle stop with 2 surveyors), and an experimental control in the agricultural matrix of Imperial Valley, California. Between 25 April and 1 May 2008, we randomly applied survey methods to 395 adult male owls during daylight hours (0700 hours through 1900 hours). All survey methods increased odds of displacing owls from perches. Survey methods with observers outside the vehicle were 3 times more likely to displace an owl than a single vehicle stop where observers remained inside the vehicle. Owls were displaced farther distances by all survey methods compared to control trials, but distances and time displaced did not differ among survey methods. We recommend that surveys for counting owls during the breeding season in agroecystems like the Imperial Valley where high densities of owls nest primarily along the borders of fields be conducted using single vehicle stops with or without 2 surveyors, depending on conditions for locating owls from roads. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.