bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mice Deficient in Collapsin Response Mediator Protein-1 Exhibit Impaired Long-Term Potentiation and Impaired Spatial Learning and Memory
Authors: Su Kang-Yi , Chien Wei-Lin , Fu Wen-Mei , Yu I-Shing , Huang Hsiang-Po , Huang Pei-Hsing , Lin Shu-Rung , Shih Jin-Yuan , Lin Yi-Ling , Hsueh Yi-Ping , Yang Pan-Chyr , Lin Shu-Wha
Published: March 2007

Collapsing response mediator protein-1 (CRMP-1) was initially identified in brain and has been implicated in plexin-dependent neuronal function. The high amino acid sequence identity among the five CRMPs has hindered determination of the functions of each individual CRMP. We generated viable and fertileCRMP-1knock-out (CRMP-1−/−) mice with no evidence of gross abnormality in the major organs.CRMP-1−/−mice exhibited intense microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2) staining in the proximal portion of the dendrites, but reduced and disorganized MAP2 staining in the distal dendrites of hippocampal CA1 pyramidal cells. Immunoreactivity to GAP-43 (growth-associated protein-43) and PSD95 (postsynaptic density-95) (a postsynaptic membrane adherent cytoskeletal protein) was also decreased in the CA1 region of the knock-out mice. These changes were consistent with the mutant mice showing a reduction in long-term potentiation (LTP) in the CA1 region and impaired performance in hippocampal-dependent spatial learning and memory tests.CRMP-1−/−mice showed a normal synapsin I labeling pattern in CA1 and normal paired-pulse facilitation. These findings provide the first evidence suggesting that CRMP-1 may be involved in proper neurite outgrowth in the adult hippocampus and that loss of CRMP-1 may affect LTP maintenance and spatial learning and memory.
Cellular Basis for Contrast Gain Control over the Receptive Field Center of Mammalian Retinal Ganglion Cells
Authors: Beaudoin Deborah L. , Borghuis Bart G. , Demb Jonathan B.
Published: March 2007

Retinal ganglion cells fire spikes to an appropriate contrast presented over their receptive field center. These center responses undergo dynamic changes in sensitivity depending on the ongoing level of contrast, a process known as “contrast gain control.” Extracellular recordings suggested that gain control is driven by a single wide-field mechanism, extending across the center and beyond, that depends on inhibitory interneurons: amacrine cells. However, recordings in salamander suggested that the excitatory bipolar cells, which drive the center, may themselves show gain control independently of amacrine cell mechanisms. Here, we tested in mammalian ganglion cells whether amacrine cells are critical for gain control over the receptive field center. We made extracellular and whole-cell recordings of guinea pig Y-type cellsin vitroand quantified the gain change between contrasts using a linear–nonlinear analysis. For spikes, tripling contrast reduced gain by ∼40%. With spikes blocked, ganglion cells showed similar levels of gain control in membrane currents and voltages and under conditions of low and high calcium buffering: tripling contrast reduced gain by ∼20–25%. Gain control persisted under voltage-clamp conditions that minimize inhibitory conductances and pharmacological conditions that block inhibitory neurotransmitter receptors. Gain control depended on adequate stimulation, not of ganglion cells but of presynaptic bipolar cells. Furthermore, horizontal cell measurements showed a lack of gain control in photoreceptor synaptic release. Thus, the mechanism for gain control over the ganglion cell receptive field center, as measured in the subthreshold response, originates in the presynaptic bipolar cells and does not require amacrine cell signaling.
3-(4-Chloro-2-Morpholin-4-yl-Thiazol-5-yl)-8-(1-Ethylpropyl)-2,6-Dimethyl-Imidazo[1,2-b]Pyridazine: A Novel Brain-Penetrant, Orally Available Corticotropin-Releasing Factor Receptor 1 Antagonist with Efficacy in Animal Models of Alcoholism
Authors: Gehlert Donald R. , Cippitelli Andrea , Thorsell Annika , Lê Anh Dzung , Hipskind Philip A. , Hamdouchi Chafiq , Lu Jianliang , Hembre Erik J. , Cramer Jeffrey , Song Min , McKinzie David , Morin Michelle , Ciccocioppo Roberto , Heilig Markus
Published: March 2007

We describe a novel corticotropin-releasing factor receptor 1 (CRF1) antagonist with advantageous properties for clinical development, and itsin vivoactivity in preclinical alcoholism models. 3-(4-Chloro-2-morpholin-4-yl-thiazol-5-yl)-8-(1-ethylpropyl)-2,6-dimethyl-imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine (MTIP) inhibited125I-sauvagine binding to rat pituitary membranes and cloned human CRF1with subnanomolar affinities, with no detectable activity at the CRF2receptor or other common drug targets. After oral administration to rats, MTIP inhibited125I-sauvagine binding to rat cerebellar membranesex vivowith an ED50of ∼1.3 mg/kg and an oral bioavailability of 91.1%. Compared with R121919 (2,5-dimethyl-3-(6-dimethyl-4-methylpyridin-3-yl)-7-dipropylamino-pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine) and CP154526 (N-butyl-N-ethyl-4,9-dimethyl-7-(2,4,6-trimethylphenyl)-3,5,7-triazabicyclo[4.3.0]nona-2,4,8,10-tetraen-2-amine), MTIP had a markedly reduced volume of distribution and clearance. Neither open-field activity nor baseline exploration of an elevated plus-maze was affected by MTIP (1–10 mg/kg). In contrast, MTIP dose-dependently reversed anxiogenic effects of withdrawal from a 3 g/kg alcohol dose. Similarly, MTIP blocked excessive alcohol self-administration in Wistar rats with a history of dependence, and in a genetic model of high alcohol preference, the msP rat, at doses that had no effect in nondependent Wistar rats. Also, MTIP blocked reinstatement of stress-induced alcohol seeking both in postdependent and in genetically selected msP animals, again at doses that were ineffective in nondependent Wistar rats. Based on these findings, MTIP is a promising candidate for treatment of alcohol dependence.
Synaptic Release Generates a Tonic GABAAReceptor-Mediated Conductance That Modulates Burst Precision in Thalamic Relay Neurons
Authors: Bright Damian P. , Aller M. Isabel , Brickley Stephen G.
Published: March 2007

Tonic inhibition has emerged as a key regulator of neuronal excitability in the CNS. Thalamic relay neurons of the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (dLGN) exhibit a tonic GABAAreceptor (GABAAR)-mediated conductance that is correlated with δ-subunit expression. Indeed, consistent with the absence of δ-subunit expression, no tonic conductance is found in the adjacent ventral LGN. We show that, in contrast to the situation in cerebellar granule cells, thalamic δ-subunit-containing GABAARs (δ-GABAARs) do not contribute to a spillover component of IPSCs in dLGN. However, tonic activation of thalamic δ-GABAARs is sensitive to the global level of inhibition, showing an absolute requirement on the synaptic release of GABA. Thus, the tonic conductance is abolished when transmitter release probability is reduced or action potential-evoked release is blocked. We further show that continuous activation of δ-GABAARs introduces variability into the timing of low-threshold rebound bursts. Hence, activation of δ-GABAARs could act to destabilize thalamocortical oscillations and therefore have an important impact on behavioral state.
Slack and Slick KNaChannels Regulate the Accuracy of Timing of Auditory Neurons
Authors: Yang Bo , Desai Rooma , Kaczmarek Leonard K.
Published: March 2007

TheSlack(sequence like a calcium-activated K channel) andSlick(sequence like an intermediate conductance K channel) genes, which encode sodium-activated K+(KNa) channels, are expressed at high levels in neurons of the medial nucleus of the trapezoid body (MNTB) in the auditory brainstem. These neurons lock their action potentials to incoming stimuli with a high degree of temporal precision. Channels with unitary properties similar to those of Slack and/or Slick channels, which are gated by [Na+]iand [Cl−]iand by changes in cytoplasmic ATP levels, are present in MNTB neurons. Manipulations of the level of KNacurrent in MNTB neurons, either by increasing levels of internal Na+or by exposure to a pharmacological activator of Slack channels, significantly enhance the accuracy of timing of action potentials at high frequencies of stimulation. These findings suggest that such fidelity of timing at high frequencies may be attributed in part to high-conductance KNachannels.
What is a language? Documentation for diverse and evolving audiences
Authors: Mithun Marianne
Published: March 2007

Earlier in the history of our discipline, it was sometimes assumed that the primary audience for linguistic documentation would be other linguists. Now, as more and more languages are endangered, documentation is becoming increasingly valued by the communities in which the languages are or were spoken. It can be useful for linguists and community members to consider together the kinds of documentation that will meet not only current needs but also those of future generations. Here we will focus on some ways in which evolving community concerns might affect documentation.
Field linguistics meets biology: how to obtain scientific designations for plant and animal names
Authors: Fleck David W.
Published: March 2007

This paper proposes methodology and provides practical tips for associating plant and animal names of little-known languages with scientific designations, especially for the purpose of producing accurate dictionary entries. The focus is on how a linguist can accomplish this task with or without the assistance of biologists, while avoiding the unsound practice of relying solely on vernacular names in the contact language. The points presented here are illustrated with examples from Matses, a language in the Panoan family spoken by an indigenous society living in western Amazonia, with whom the author has conducted extensive zoological, ethnobiological and linguistic field research.
Upstream Swimming Performance of Adult White Sturgeon: Effects of Partial Baffles and a Ramp
Authors: Webber Jason D. , Chun Stephanie N. , MacColl Teresa R. , Mirise Leslie T. , Kawabata Ayako , Anderson Emily K. , Cheong Tae Sung , Kavvas Lev , McRotondo Maureen Gee , Hochgraf Karen L. , Churchwell Roger , Cech Joseph J.
Published: March 2007

The upstream passage of sturgeon (family Acipenseridae) past barriers such as dams has become a concern of fisheries managers in California. Knowledge about the swimming abilities of adult sturgeon species, particularly with relationship to fish ladders, is limited. Wild adult white sturgeon Acipenser transmontanus (n = 25; total length, 135–198 cm) captured in the San Francisco Estuary and Yolo Bypass toe drain were swum in a variable‐speed aluminum flume (24.4 m long × 2.1 m wide × 1.4 m deep) to evaluate swimming behavior around simulated fish‐ladder‐type partial baffles. Four baffle types (one horizontal ramp and three different vertical slot designs) set in two configurations were tested at three velocity regimes (velocity range around baffles, 0.28–2.52 m/s). In general, faster velocities (0.76–1.07 m/s) cued fish to swim upstream sooner (≤100 s). Among the baffle types, the percentage of successful passage was variable, and no statistically significant pattern was detected. The tail‐beat frequency of fish significantly increased in the high‐velocity (to 2.52 m/s) regions of the flume adjacent to the energy‐dissipating baffles, where sturgeon were able to pass by swimming in bursts, followed by a resting and recovery period in slower water. Successful white sturgeon passage structures should incorporate rapid‐velocity (e.g., 0.84–2.52‐m/s) sections between somewhat slower (e.g., 0.51–0.68‐m/s) sections for rest and recovery.
Stock Identification of Atlantic Cod in U.S. Waters Using Microsatellite and Single Nucleotide Polymorphism DNA Analyses
Authors: Wirgin Isaac , Kovach Adrienne I. , Maceda Lorraine , Roy Nirmal K. , Waldman John , Berlinsky David L.
Published: March 2007

Management of Atlantic cod Gadus morhua in U.S. waters is based on a two‐stock model composed of stocks from (1) the Gulf of Maine (GOM) and (2) Georges Bank (GB) and areas south; however, evidence suggests a more fine‐scale structuring. We used microsatellite and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analyses to investigate the stock structure of Atlantic cod in U.S. waters. In year 1, we analyzed microsatellite loci in larvae from GB, age‐0 juveniles from multiple locations in the GOM, and adults of unknown maturity from GB, Jeffreys Ledge, and the Great South Channel (GSC). In year 2, Atlantic cod collected from spawning aggregations in Ipswich Bay in the spring and at GB, Stellwagen Bank, Chatham, and Ipswich Bay in the winter, along with adults of unknown maturity from Long Island, New York, were surveyed at a modified battery of microsatellites and three SNPs. In year 1, we saw no significant differences in allelic frequencies between our composite sample of adult and juvenile cod from the GOM and that from GB nor between the collections from the GSC and any other site. However, a composite sample of juveniles from Massachusetts Bay was significantly different from the GB collection and juveniles from Maine. In year 2, we found highly significant differences in allelic frequencies between Atlantic cod collections from the GOM and GB. The spring collection from Ipswich Bay was highly distinct from the collection from GB and all other sites, including the winter‐spawning Ipswich Bay collection. The Long Island sample was genetically distinct from the GB and the spring collections from Ipswich Bay, but not from other collections. Our study indicates that there is genetic heterogeneity of stocks in U.S. waters, but its structure is complex and to better understand it many more spatially and temporally separated samples must be characterized.
An integrated modeling approach to predict flooding on urban basin
Authors: Dey Ashis Kumar , Kamioka Seiji
Published: March 2007

Correct prediction of flood extents in urban catchments has become a challenging issue. The traditional urban drainage models that consider only the sewerage-network are able to simulate the drainage system correctly until there is no overflow from the network inlet or manhole. When such overflows exist due to insufficient drainage capacity of downstream pipes or channels, it becomes difficult to reproduce the actual flood extents using these traditional one-phase simulation techniques. On the other hand, the traditional 2D models that simulate the surface flooding resulting from rainfall and/or levee break do not consider the sewerage network. As a result, the correct flooding situation is rarely addressed from those available traditional 1D and 2D models. This paper presents an integrated model that simultaneously simulates the sewerage network, river network and 2D mesh network to get correct flood extents. The model has been successfully applied into the Tenpaku basin (Nagoya, Japan), which experienced severe flooding with a maximum flood depth more than 1.5 m on September 11, 2000 when heavy rainfall, 580 mm in 28 hrs (return period >100 yr), occurred over the catchments. Close agreements between the simulated flood depths and observed data ensure that the present integrated modeling approach is able to reproduce the urban flooding situation accurately, which rarely can be obtained through the traditional 1D and 2D modeling approaches.
Detection of gas pockets in pressurised wastewater mains using dynamic system response analysis
Authors: Lubbers C. , Clemens F.
Published: March 2007

In the Netherlands, wastewater is mostly collected in combined sewer system and transported to a WWTP through pressure mains. These pressure mains form an element of the system that did not receive much attention lately with respect to monitoring of performance and maintenance. For that reason, their state of functioning is often not known. Failure of operation is only noticed when during storm conditions the capacity of the system drops, resulting in undesirable discharge to the surface water. A recently made inventory showed that about half of the pressure mains show increased pressure loss for no obvious reason. Reduction of the systems nominal capacity can result from many causes, like increased wall roughness, scaling and the occurrence of free gas in the pipeline. The occurrence of gas-pockets may be caused by degassing of dissolved gas, but also by air entrapment at the pump inlet or at air valves. A research project is started that will be carried out from 2003 to 2005. This project focuses on three goals:

the description of the gas-water transport phenomena in wastewater pressure mains, a method to detect and diagnose gas problems, and to overcome future problems by either applying remedial measures or by developing improved design methods for wastewater pressure systems.

This paper describes the layout of the experimental set-up to detect and diagnose gas problems and the first results of the experiments are presented and discussed. The results are used to validate a model (Wanda) developed by Delft Hydraulics that describes the phenomena involved in surges in air/water transport.
Multicriteria procedure for the design and the management of infiltration systems
Authors: Moura P. , Barraud S. , Baptista M.
Published: March 2007

Infiltration systems are frequently used as an option to manage urban storm drainage. By reducing flows and volumes in downstream sewers or in surface waters, they decrease the overflows and make it possible to recharge groundwater. They come in various forms with different uses; therefore, their performance is diverse and integrates multiple aspects. Consequently, a multicriteria approach was developed in order to quantify the performance of these systems and to help in decision making problems. For that purpose, a list of performance indicators integrating technical, economical, environmental and social aspects was developed. The performances were defined with the help of a working group composed of engineers from different technical or strategic departments from Greater Lyon and researchers from different fields. The paper presents the last version of the performance indicators tested according to a set of quality requirements: availability of data, relevance, fidelity, precision, sensitivity/robustness. This critical review of the set of indicators has led us to redefine a certain number of indicators, identify numerous biases and allow putting forward general instructions for criterion or indicator construction. The last phase is to propose multicriteria decision aid methods; a procedure using ELECTRE methods should be used.
Removal of dissolved nitrogen, phosphorus and carbon from stormwater by biofiltration mesocosms
Authors: Henderson C. , Greenway M. , Phillips I.
Published: March 2007

Biofiltration systems are becoming a popular stormwater treatment device in water sensitive urban design for the removal of fine particulate and dissolved pollutants from stormwater. However, there is limited published data on the effectiveness of these systems for nutrient removal. We constructed biofiltration mesocosms to assess nutrient removal (nitrogen, phosphorus and carbon) under experimental conditions. Different types of media were compared (gravel, sand, and sandy-loam) in vegetated and non-vegetated mesocosms (six treatments in total). Five plant species were used. Vegetated sand and vegetated sandy-loam provided the best overall treatment. Vegetated mesocosms were very effective in removing nitrogen (63–77% removal) and phosphorus (85–94% removal) from synthetic stormwater, and removed substantially more nutrients than the non-vegetated treatments. All treatments removed a substantial portion of the carbon from the stormwater (28–66%). When flushed with tap water, nitrogen and phosphorus were retained by the vegetated mesocosms, but leached from the non-vegetated mesocosms. Plant growth was most vigorous in the sandy-loam media, indicating that this is a good growth media, even without the addition of organic matter.
Local infiltration devices at parking sites – Experimental assessment of temporal changes in hydraulic and contaminant removal capacity
Authors: Achleitner S. , Engelhard C. , Stegner U. , Rauch W.
Published: March 2007

On site infiltration of stormwater is a common practice in order to avoid hydraulic overload of the urban drainage system. If hydrological conditions allow on-site infiltration – this is even mandatory from a legal point of view. Focus in this work is on surface infiltration of stormwater from parking lots. Proper operation of those devices is assumed to be appr. 15 years, as permits granted are limited to this time. Questions are raised whether this considered life expectancy is feasible. One apprehension is a possible clogging effect reducing the hydraulic capacity of the swale. The second aim was to identify magnitudes of accumulated pollutant loads with respect to limitations onto lifetime. The experimental investigation covered infiltration swales of different ages from eleven supermarket parking lots in Tyrol. Hydraulic permeabilities were assessed as well as chemical conditions of the soil material regarding hydrocarbon index (HI) and heavy metals (Cu, Zn, Pb and Cd). Further mass balance of contaminants has been performed in order to assess the operational life time based on pollutant load consideration. Calculations were based on load estimations using literature based minima and maxima concentrations from surface flows. Testing the correlation of hydraulic and pollutant measurements against site specific parameters (age, traffic load) revealed no distinct relation. In general all measured pollutants were found under limit concentrations. Mass balance calculations showed that limit concentrations are not exceeded either for worst case loading and considering 15 years of operation.
Stormwater reuse: designing biofiltration systems for reliable treatment
Authors: Hatt B.E. , Deletic A. , Fletcher T.D.
Published: March 2007

Stormwater reuse is increasing in popularity as a technique for overcoming water shortages in urban Australia. However, technology for the reliable treatment of stormwater for reuse is still not fully developed. This paper presents the first steps in refining biofilters for stormwater reuse. Six different filter media were selected, to target specific stormwater pollutants, as well as support plant growth. They were tested in the laboratory, where the filters were dosed three times per week with semi-synthetic stormwater for five weeks. Pollutant removal performance was monitored, and revealed that all soil-based filters performed similarly (while sand filters behaved somewhat differently). All filters removed more than 80% of solids and greater than 90% of lead, copper, and zinc. Three filter types were able to remove some phosphorus (particularly in the top 30 cm of the media). Apart from sand, all filter media were net producers of nitrogen, leading to an important conclusion that non-vegetated, soil-based filters are not suitable for targeting nutrients. However, since heavy metals are the primary pollutant of concern with respect to stormwater reuse for irrigation (the most popular end-use), it was concluded that biofilters may be promising technologies for treatment of stormwater for reuse.
Development of a confined water sensitive urban design (WSUD) system using engineered soils
Authors: Dunphy A. , Beecham S. , Vigneswaran S. , Ngo H.H. , McLaughlan R. , Collins A.
Published: March 2007

Innovative Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) systems are being investigated at three locations to the north and south of Sydney, Australia. These systems contain porous concrete pipes that are designed so that stormwater exfiltrates through the permeable walls of the pipes into the surrounding substrate media material. The porous pipes and media material treat the passing stormwater. The primary aim of the overall project is to develop a model to describe the treatment effectiveness of confined WSUD systems. This paper focuses on the system located at the Weathertex Industrial Site, Heatherbrae. Due to wood processing operations that occur at this site, it is recognised that the surface runoff will carry a heavy organics loading. Granulated Activated Carbon (GAC) is recognised for its ability to reduce the concentration of dissolved organics present in both wastewater and stormwater. GAC was therefore chosen as a filtration medium to be investigated at this site. To maximise the effectiveness of the GAC, extensive laboratory batch studies were undertaken prior to the field system being constructed to determine the optimum GAC/sand ratio. The purpose of the experimental work was to assess the dissolved organic removal potential through sorption of various concentrations of GAC. The aim of this paper is to describe these laboratory experiments and discuss how they related to the field system. Through these experiments it was determined that a sand/GAC ratio of 25:1 was ideal for the media material at the Heatherbrae site.
Long-term hydraulic and pollution retention performance of infiltration systems
Authors: Le Coustumer S. , Barraud S.
Published: March 2007

Infiltration techniques are now widely used to manage stormwater in urban areas. These techniques are used and recognized around the world for their many advantages, such as decreasing stormwater flow in sewer systems and recharging groundwater. But numerous cases of infiltration devices that failed after a few years of operation are still being reported. This study, which is based on site-monitoring of operational infiltration systems, is part of the Field Observatory for Urban Water Management (OTHU). The main goals of this study are to improve knowledge of long-term hydraulic behaviour, especially as concerns the clogging speed and the quality of the runoff. This article will present the site, the monitoring process and the model that will be used to assess the hydraulic behaviour. First results of the calibration of the model show that the model is able to assess the hydraulic behaviour of the basin when it is clogged (average value of hydraulic resistance 17.1 h) and when it has been scraped (hydraulic resistance less than 3.8 h). However, further data are needed in order to validate the model. We also show that the experimental setup is well designed to assess the water volume and the sediment brought to the basin with low uncertainties.
Identifying the major influences on the microbial composition of roof harvested rainwater and the implications for water quality
Authors: Evans C.A. , Coombes P.J. , Dunstan R.H. , Harrison T.
Published: March 2007

Perceptions of the quality of roof harvested rainwater remain an impediment to widespread implementation of rainwater tanks on urban allotments. Previous literature reports on roof water quality have given little consideration to the relative significance of airborne environmental micro-organisms to roof catchment contamination and the issue of tank water quality. This paper outlines the findings of a recent study into the influence of weather on roof water contamination conducted at an urban housing development in Newcastle, on the east coast of Australia. Samples of direct roof run-off were collected during a number of separate rainfall events, and microbial counts were matched to climatic data corresponding to each of the monitored events. Roof run-off contamination was found to be under the strong influence of both wind speed and direction. The preliminary findings of an investigation currently under way into the microbial diversity of rainwater harvesting systems have also been presented. The results indicate that the composition of organisms present varied considerably from source to source and throughout the collection system. In all cases, evidence of faecal contamination was found to be negligible. The implications of these findings to the issues of tank water quality, health risk analysis and monitoring protocols have been discussed.
Is stormwater harvesting beneficial to urban waterway environmental flows?
Authors: Fletcher T.D. , Mitchell V.G. , Deletic A. , Ladson T.R. , Séven A.
Published: March 2007

Urbanization degrades the hydrology and water quality of waterways. Changes to flow regimes include increased frequency of surface runoff, increased peak flows and an increase in total runoff. At the same time, water use in many cities is approaching, and in some cases exceeding, sustainable limits. Stormwater harvesting has the potential to mitigate a number of these detrimental impacts. However, excessive harvesting of stormwater could also be detrimental to stream health. Therefore, a study was undertaken to test whether typical stormwater harvesting scenarios could meet the dual objectives of (i) supplying urban water requirements, and (ii) restoring the flow regime as close as possible to ‘natural’ (pre-developed). Melbourne and Brisbane, which have different climates, were used along with three land use scenarios (low, medium and high density). Modelling was undertaken for a range of flow and water quality indicators. The results show that using these typical harvesting scenarios helped to bring flow and water quality back towards their pre-developed levels. In some cases, however, harvesting resulted in an over-extraction of flow, demonstrating the need for optimizing the harvesting strategy to meet both supply and environmental flow objectives. The results show that urban stormwater harvesting is a potential strategy for achieving both water conservation and environmental flows.
Sewer system design moving into the 21st century – a UK perspective
Authors: Ashley R.M. , Tait S.J. , Styan E. , Cashman A. , Luck B. , Blanksby J. , Saul A. , Sandlands L.
Published: March 2007

Change in external factors, such as environmental legislation and climate change, will mean the future of sewerage systems is likely to be different from the past. Combined sewerage systems comprise the vast majority of existing sewers in countries such as the UK. A study funded by UK Water Industry Research Ltd has reviewed the current state of sewerage within the UK, the likely drivers for change and the consequent future impacts over a 75 year timescale. Potential responses to address the anticipated changes have also been considered. It is concluded that due to the wide extent and value of existing sewer systems, these will continue to be used for the foreseeable future. However, in order to meet the major challenges as a result of changing external factors, these need to be operated more effectively, new ideas need to be explored and moves to develop better and more integrated water management systems need to be started if sewer systems in the UK are to provide the anticipated required levels of service well into the 21st Century.
Using Health Education Theories to Explain Behavior Change: A Cross-Country Analysis
Authors: Murray-Johnson Lisa , Witte Kim , Boulay Marc , Figueroa Maria Elena , Storey Douglas , Tweedie Ian
Published: March 2007

Scholars within the fields of public health, health education, health promotion, and health communication look to specific theories to explain health behavior change. The purpose of this article is to critically compare four health theories and key variables within them with regard to behavior change in the area of reproductive health. Using cross-country analyses of Ghana, Nepal, and Nicaragua (data sets provided by the Center for Communication Programs, Johns Hopkins University), the authors looked at the Health Belief Model, Theory of Reasoned Action, Extended Parallel Process Model, and Social Cognitive Theory for these two defined objectives. Results show that all four theories provide an excellent fit to the data, but that certain variables within them may have particular value for understanding specific aspects of behavior change. Recommendations for the selection of theories to use as guidelines in the design and evaluation of reproductive health programs are provided.
Social Support and Social Action Organizing in a “Grey Ghetto”: The Tenderloin Experience
Authors: Minkler Meredith , Frantz Sheryl , Wechsler Robin
Published: March 2007

The Tenderloin Senior Outreach Project (TSOP) is presented as a case study of effective community-based organizing among the isolated elderly in one of America's large “grey ghettos.” Based on the theoretical underpinnings of social support theory and Freire's “education for critical consciousness,” the Project has attempted to address the interrelated problems of poor health, social isolation and powerlessness endemic among the elderly in Single Room Occupancy hotels. The Project's metamorphosis is traced from a university-sponsored community development effort to a community controlled organization focused on broad social action objectives. The transference of leadership from health education facilitators to indigenous elderly leaders within the hotels is examined, as are some of the strategies employed in increasing Project visibility, preventing burn-out, and facilitating replication in other areas.
Strategies for Achieving Research Utilization in the Bangladesh Population Program: Implications for Health Education
Authors: Khan Nurul Islam , Reynolds Richard
Published: March 2007

Effective research utilization in program planning and implementation is a continuing problem in both developed and less developed nations. This is particularly so in social programs. This paper addresses the issue from the standpoint of some twelve years of experience in the Bangladesh population program. The focus of this paper is on communication between administrators and researchers—the problems that arise, and the strategies that may be used to facilitate communication in order to improve use of research findings.
Participation of South African Youth in the Design and Development of AIDS Photocomics
Authors: Toroyan Tamitza , Reddy Priscilla S.
Published: March 2007

In response to an increasing incidence in HIV prevalence among South Africa's youth, a group of interdisciplinary professionals have developed a series of photocomics to address issues around HIV/AIDS communication and sexually transmitted diseases. This article examines the theory behind the use of photocomics in health, and the way the stories work to influence behavior. Results from evaluation of the comics support their use as tools with which to increase information and knowledge while role modeling desirable behavior. Lastly, the article describes the participatory process by which youth were involved in the process of developing and producing the comics. This method of developing culturally relevant and appealing health media is recommended for use in future health promotion strategies that seek to transcend a narrower approach of provision of health information and work to address the social factors that influence youth's decision making.
Planning Health Education: Internet and Computer Resources in Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Oyadoke Adebola A. , Salami Kabiru K. , Brieger William R.
Published: March 2007

The use of the Internet as a health education tool and as a resource in health education planning is widely accepted as the norm in industrialized countries. Unfortunately, access to computers and the Internet is quite limited in developing countries. Not all licensed service providers operate, many users are actually foreign nationals, telephone connections are unreliable, and electricity supplies are intermittent. In this context, computer, e-mail, Internet, and CD-Rom use by health and health education program officers in five states in southwestern Nigeria were assessed to document their present access and use. Eight of the 30 organizations visited were government health ministry departments, while the remainder were non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Six NGOs and four State Ministry of Health (MOH) departments had no computers, but nearly two-thirds of both types of agency had e-mail, less than one-third had Web browsing facilities, and six had CD-Roms, all of whom were NGOs. Only 25 of the 48 individual respondents had computer use skills. Narrative responses from individual employees showed a qualitative difference between computer and Internet access and use and type of agency. NGO staff in organizations with computers indicated having relatively free access to a computer and the Internet and used these for both program planning and administrative purposes. In government offices it appeared that computers were more likely to be located in administrative or statistics offices and used for management tasks like salaries and correspondence, limiting the access of individual health staff. These two different organizational cultures must be considered when plans are made for increasing computer availability and skills for health education planning.
Training Health Educators for Social Change
Authors: Freudenberg Nicholas
Published: March 2007

Health education practice reflects the ideology of the social forces that support it. Currently, health educators approach their task from two divergent viewpoints: one group emphasizes changing individual behavior while the other focuses on organizing people to change health-damaging institutions, policies and environments. This report provides a rationale and examples of the latter approach. It then describes the kind of training program that would be necessary to prepare health educators to work effectively for social change. Specifically, it is suggested that graduate students in health education need more preparation in social epidemiology, environmental sciences and policy analysis, particularly the analysis of the impact of non-health policies on health status. Health education training programs also need new approaches to the process of learning. The social movement of the last decades, health education programs in developing and socialist countries and some projects in this country provide a rich source of case studies. Training programs also need to recruit students who will be prepared to serve populations most in need of help. This suggests attracting students who have in the past been excluded from graduate education. Finally, several methods are suggested by which students, faculty and practitioners can begin the process of transforming the institutions that prepare professional health educators.
Community Health Education in Rural Ghana: The Danfa Project—An Assessment of Accomplishments
Authors: Ward William B. , Neumann Alfred K. , Pappoe Matilda E.
Published: March 2007

The Danfa Comprehensive Rural Health and Family Planning Project was a joint effort of the Ghana Medical School, the Ministry of Health, UCLA, and USAID. A health education component was developed as an integral part of program inputs during the initial conceptual phase of the project. As a result non-equivalent experimental and control areas were designated permitting an assessment of program impact during a five-year period (1972–1977) for which baseline and follow-up study data were available. A new cadre of community-based workers (Health Education Assistants) was developed from existing health personnel in the country, and trained in health education and multipurpose health work. Although the HEAs were found to have difficulty in bringing about changes in health practices when other support services were not available, they did have measurable impact on villagers' adoption of family planning methods and a number of specific health practices.
Sudden Unexpected Death in Childhood Associated with Cardiac Rhabdomyoma, Involuting Adrenal Ganglioneuroma, and Megalencephaly: Another Expression of Tuberous Sclerosis?
Authors: Masoumi Homeyra , Kinney Hannah C. , Chadwick Amy E. , Rubio Ana , Krous Henry F.
Published: March 2007

We report a 9-year-old, previously healthy girl who died suddenly and unexpectedly and was found at postmortem examination to have a cardiac rhabdomyoma, megalencephaly, and an involuting adrenal ganglioneuroma. Her death was possibly caused by a fatal cardiac arrhythmia resulting from interference of the ventricular septal rhabdomyoma with the cardiac conduction fibers. Her extended family history included a variety of disorders, including cleft lip and palate and ill-defined cardiac and neurologic diseases. The constellation of her autopsy findings suggested a diagnosis of tuberous sclerosis, for which there are gene defects that can be identified in surviving family members.
Sialolipoma of the Parotid Gland with Diffuse Sebaceous Differentiation in a Female Child
Authors: Kadivar Maryam , Shahzadi Shahriar Zohourian , Javadi Morteza
Published: March 2007

Sialolipoma of the salivary gland is a tumor with ambiguous histogenesis. Histologically, this lesion is composed of mature adipose tissue and salivary glandular components. To the best of our knowledge, only 12 documented cases of sialolipoma have been reported in the literature. Except for 1 congenital case, all of the cases were found in adult patients. In this report, we present a unique case of sialolipoma with diffuse sebaceous differentiation in a 3-year-old female child. The differential diagnoses are discussed.
Melanotic Neuroectodermal Tumor of Infancy: Report of a Case with Myogenic Differentiation
Authors: Ellison Dale A. , Adada Badih , Qualman Stephen J. , Parham David M.
Published: March 2007

An 8-month-old boy presented with a 6-week history of a skull mass of the anterior fontanelle. The mass was excised, and the histopathologic features were diagnostic for melanotic neuroectodermal tumor of infancy. The tumor showed focal myogenin positivity, which has not been previously reported in this tumor. The patient has no evidence of recurrent tumor 10 months after the excision. No adjuvant therapy was given. In addition, we stained a case of melanotic neuroectodermal tumor of infancy obtained from Columbus Children's Hospital; focal myogenin positivity was present.
Effect of Neck Exercise on Sitting Posture in Patients With Chronic Neck Pain
Authors: Falla Deborah , Jull Gwendolen , Russell Trevor , Vicenzino Bill , Hodges Paul
Published: March 2007

Background and Purpose

Poor sitting posture has been implicated in the development and perpetuation of neck pain symptoms. This study had 2 purposes: (1) to compare change in cervical and thoracic posture during a distracting task between subjects with chronic neck pain and control subjects and (2) to compare the effects of 2 different neck exercise regimens on the ability of people with neck pain to maintain an upright cervical and thoracic posture during this task.

Subjects

Fifty-eight subjects with chronic, nonsevere neck pain and 10 control subjects participated in the study.

Method

Change in cervical and thoracic posture from an upright posture was measured every 2 minutes during a 10-minute computer task. Following baseline measurements, the subjects with neck pain were randomized into one of two 6-week exercise intervention groups: a group that received training of the craniocervical flexor muscles or a group that received endurance-strength training of the cervical flexor muscles. The primary outcomes following intervention were changes in the angle of cervical and thoracic posture during the computer task.

Results

Subjects with neck pain demonstrated a change in cervical angle across the duration of the task (mean=4.4°; 95% confidence interval [CI]=3.3–5.4), consistent with a more forward head posture. No significant difference was observed for the change in cervical angle across the duration of the task for the control group subjects (mean=2.2°; 95% CI=1.0–3.4). Following intervention, the craniocervical flexor training group demonstrated a significant reduction in the change of cervical angle across the duration of the computer task.

Discussion and Conclusion

This study showed that people with chronic neck pain demonstrate a reduced ability to maintain an upright posture when distracted. Following intervention with an exercise program targeted at training the craniocervical flexor muscles, subjects with neck pain demonstrated an improved ability to maintain a neutral cervical posture during prolonged sitting.
FBN2, FBN1, TGFBR1, and TGFBR2 analyses in congenital contractural arachnodactyly
Authors: Nishimura Akira , Sakai Haruya , Ikegawa Shiro , Kitoh Hiroshi , Haga Nobuyuki , Ishikiriyama Satoshi , Nagai Toshiro , Takada Fumio , Ohata Takako , Tanaka Fumihiko , Kamasaki Hotaka , Saitsu Hirotomo , Mizuguchi Takeshi , Matsumoto Naomichi
Published: March 2007

FBN2, FBN1, TGFBR1, and TGFBR2 were analyzed by direct sequencing in 15 probands with suspected congenital contractural arachnodactyly (CCA). A total of four novel FBN2 mutations were found in four probands (27%, 4/15), but remaining the 11 did not show any abnormality in either of the genes. This study indicated that FBN2 mutations were major abnormality in CCA, and TGFBR and FBN1 defects may not be responsible for the disorder. FBN2 mutations were only found at introns 30, 31, and 35 in this study. Thus analysis of a mutational hotspot from exons 22 to 36 (a middle part) of FBN2 should be prioritized in CCA as previously suggested. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Apparently novel genetic syndrome of pachygyria, mental retardation, seizure, and arachnoid cysts
Authors: Guzel Aslan , Tatli Mehmet , Bilguvar Kaya , DiLuna Michael L. , Bakkaloglu Betul , Ozturk Ali K. , Bayrakli Fatih , Gunel Murat
Published: March 2007

We report on an apparently new syndrome in a consanguineous family with seven members, three of whom have cerebral anomalies including pachygyria and arachnoid cysts along with mental retardation and seizures. The two patients with seizure disorders also had multiple enlarged perivascular spaces seen in the white matter of the centrum semiovale. Our data provide a contribution to the accumulating knowledge on familial cerebral anomalies including arachnoid cysts and lissencephaly. Given the lack of mutation in known lissencephaly genes such asLIS1,14‐3‐3ε, andDCX, this syndrome may constitute a new phenotype with autosomal recessive inheritance. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Microarray comparative genomic hybridization and FISH studies of an unbalanced cryptic telomeric 2p deletion/16q duplication in a patient with mental retardation and behavioral problems
Authors: Zou Ying S. , Van Dyke Daniel L. , Ellison Jay W.
Published: March 2007

We describe a 7‐year‐old patient with pervasive developmental disorder and behavioral problems who has a de novo cryptic unbalanced der(2)t(2;16)(p25.3;q24.3) chromosome resulting in deletion of distal 2p and duplication of distal 16q. These segmental aneusomies were detected by microarray comparative genomic hybridization analysis, as was a distal 17p13.3 duplication that was inherited from her father. FISH analysis using bacterial artificial chromosomes confirmed a deletion of approximately 1,700 kbp of DNA from 2pter (containing at least six complete genes or transcription units) and a duplication of ∼500 kbp from 16qter (including up to ten genes or transcription units). Several genes in these regions are plausible candidates for contributing to the patient's phenotype. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pulmonary disease is a component of distal arthrogryposis type 5
Authors: Williams Marc S. , Elliott C. Gregory , Bamshad Michael J.
Published: March 2007

We report on a three‐generation family with distal arthrogryposis type 5 (DA5). The family has four affected members in three generations with an apparent autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance. Three affected individuals were examined. All have distal joint contractures with absent flexion creases, limited mobility of all small and large joints, unusual stance with shortened heel cords and pes cavus, firm muscles, short stature, decreased extraocular movements, and pectus excavatum. The propositus has pulmonary hypertension secondary to chronic hypoxia from restrictive chest disease, alveolar hypoventilation, and residence at 7,000 feet above sea level. Cardiac catheterization documented pulmonary artery pressure of 54 mmHg and a pulmonary capillary wedge pressure of 10 mmHg. Pulmonary function tests showed severe chest restriction (forced vital capacity 30% of predicted; total lung capacity 51% predicted); and reduction of maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures. Arterial blood gases documented alveolar hypoventilation. Restrictive chest disease is a component of DA5. This implies involvement of the skeletal, and/or respiratory muscles. All individuals diagnosed with DA5 should be evaluated for chest disease, alveolar hypoventilation, as treatment of chronic hypoxia may delay or reverse pulmonary hypertension. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.