bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Presynaptic UNC-31 (CAPS) Is Required to Activate the Gαs Pathway of the Caenorhabditis elegans Synaptic Signaling Network
Authors: Charlie Nicole K , Schade Michael A , Thomure Angela M , Miller Kenneth G 
Published: November 2005

Abstract
C. elegans mutants lacking the dense-core vesicle priming protein UNC-31 (CAPS) share highly similar phenotypes with mutants lacking a neuronal Gαs pathway, including strong paralysis despite exhibiting near normal levels of steady-state acetylcholine release as indicated by drug sensitivity assays. Our genetic analysis shows that UNC-31 and neuronal Gαs are different parts of the same pathway and that the UNC-31/Gαs pathway is functionally distinct from the presynaptic Gαq pathway with which it interacts. UNC-31 acts upstream of Gαs because mutations that activate the Gαs pathway confer similar levels of strongly hyperactive, coordinated locomotion in both unc-31 null and (+) backgrounds. Using cell-specific promoters, we show that both UNC-31 and the Gαs pathway function in cholinergic motor neurons to regulate locomotion rate. Using immunostaining we show that UNC-31 is often concentrated at or near active zones of cholinergic motor neuron synapses. Our data suggest that presynaptic UNC-31 activity, likely acting via dense-core vesicle exocytosis, is required to locally activate the neuronal Gαs pathway near synaptic active zones.
Modified Calibration Procedures for a Yankee Environmental System UVB‐1 Biometer Based on Spectral Measurements with a Brewer Spectrophotometer
Authors: Vilaplana José M. , Cachorro Victoria E. , Sorribas Mar , Luccini Eduardo , de Frutos Angel M. , Berjón Alberto , de la Morena Benito 
Published: November 2005

ABSTRACTThe calibration of the erythemal irradiance measured by a Yankee Environmental System (YES) UVB‐1 biometer is presented using two methods of calibration with a wide range of experimental solar zenith angles (SZAs) and ozone values. The calibration is performed through simultaneous spectral measurements by a calibrated double‐monochromator Brewer MK‐III spectrophotometer at “El Arenosillo” station, located in southwestern Spain. Because the range of spectral measurements of the Brewer spectrophotometer is 290–363 nm, a previously validated radiative transfer model was used to account for the erythemal contribution between 363 and 400 nm. Both methods are recommended by the World Meteorological Organization and we present and discuss here a wide range of results and features given by modified procedures applied to these two general methods. As is well established, the calibration factor for this type of radiometric system is dependent on atmospheric conditions, the most important of which are the ozone content and the SZA. Although the first method is insensitive to these two factors, we analyze this behavior in terms of the range used for the SZA and the use of two different mathematical approaches for its determination. The second method shows the dependence on SZA and ozone content and, thus, a polynomial as a function of SZA or a matrix including SZA and ozone content were determined as general calibration factors for the UV radiometric system. We must note that the angular responses of the YES radiometer and Brewer spectroradiometer have not been considered, because of the dificulty in correcting them. The results show in detail the advantages and drawbacks (and the corresponding associated error) given by the different approaches used for the determination of these calibration coefficients.
Identification of a Genomic Island of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans
Authors: Chen Weizhen , Wang Ying , Chen Casey 
Published: November 2005

Background: Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) is a process by which bacteria acquire genes from organisms of distant taxa. HGT is now recognized as a major driving force in the evolution of bacterial pathogens. Through this process, bacteria may accumulate blocks of DNA such as genomic islands (GEIs) that encode fitness or virulence factors. The periodontal pathogen A. actinomycetemcomitans has been known to exhibit variable virulence potential. It is postulated that GEIs may play a role in modifying the virulence potential of A. actinomycetemcomitans. This study was initiated to identify and determine the distribution of GEIs in A. actinomycetemcomitans.Methods: Forty‐seven A. actinomycetemcomitans strains of serotypes a through f were examined. Strain‐specific variant DNA in the genomes of A. actinomycetemcomitans was identified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) genomic mapping and sequenced to identify GEIs. The distribution of the GEIs among test strains of A. actinomycetemcomitans was determined by PCR analysis and Southern hybridization assays.Results: An ∼22 kb GEI of A. actinomycetemcomitans, designated AAI‐1, was identified in five serotype b strains. The AAI‐1 exhibits low %G+C and encodes proteins of phage, restriction modification systems, mobile elements, and other hypothetical proteins of unknown functions. The insertion of AAI‐1 was found to cause truncation of A. actinomycetemcomitans genes at the insertion site.Conclusions: Some A. actinomycetemcomitans strains may harbor GEIs, which were acquired via HGT by the bacteria. The GEIs may increase the gene repertoire of A. actinomycetemcomitans. However, the insertion of the GEIs in A. actinomycetemcomitans may also cause truncation and inactivation of resident genes at the insertion sites. The virulence significance of such gain and loss of genes in A. actinomycetemcomitans remains to be determined.
Effects of Maternal Campylobacter rectus Infection on Murine Placenta, Fetal and Neonatal Survival, and Brain Development
Authors: Offenbacher S. , Riché E.L. , Barros S.P. , Bobetsis Y.A. , Lin D. , Beck J.D. 
Published: November 2005

Background: Maternal periodontal infection has been associated with increased risk of prematurity and low birthweight. Infection and inflammatory pathways that mediate prematurity have also been implicated in neonatal developmental impairments. The objective of this study was to determine whether maternal Campylobacter rectus infection that induces fetal growth restriction in a mouse model also compromises neonatal pup survival, growth, and neurodevelopment.Methods: Timed pregnant mice were challenged with C. rectus on gestation day 7.5. One group of animals was sacrificed on embryonic day 16.5 for placental histology and measurement of fetal brain mRNA expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and interferon (IFN)‐γ. Another group of animals was allowed to deliver to follow pup survival, growth, and brain structure at day 9.Results: C. rectus challenge resulted in abnormal placental architecture with inflammation and a 2.8‐fold increase in fetal brain expression of IFN‐γ (P = 0.04). Pup birthweight was unaffected by C. rectus exposure, but lethality was 3.9‐fold higher after 1 week. Ultrastructurally, the 9‐day neonatal brain tissue displayed cellular and myelin alterations consistent with white matter damage.Conclusions: Maternal C. rectus infection induces placental inflammation and decidual hyperplasia as well as concomitant increase in fetal brain IFN‐γ. Maternal infection increased pup mortality, and preliminary findings demonstrate ultrastructural changes in the hippocampal region of the neonatal brain, in a manner analogous to the effects of maternal infection on white matter damage seen in humans. Thus, the threat of maternal oral infectious exposure during pregnancy may not be limited to the duration of gestation, but may also potentially affect perinatal neurological growth and development.
Spatial Variability of Soil Phosphorus in Relation to the Topographic Index and Critical Source Areas
Authors: Page Trevor , Haygarth Philip M. , Beven Keith J. , Joynes Adrian , Butler Trisha , Keeler Chris , Freer Jim , Owens Philip N. , Wood Gavin A. 
Published: November 2005

ABSTRACTA measure of soil P status in agricultural soils is generally required for assisting with prediction of potential P loss from agricultural catchments and assessing risk for water quality. The objectives of this paper are twofold: (i) investigating the soil P status, distribution, and variability, both spatially and with soil depth, of two different first‐order catchments; and (ii) determining variation in soil P concentration in relation to catchment topography (quantified as the “topographic index”) and critical source areas (CSAs). The soil P measurements showed large spatial variability, not only between fields and land uses, but also within individual fields and in part was thought to be strongly influenced by areas where cattle tended to congregate and areas where manure was most commonly spread. Topographic index alone was not related to the distribution of soil P, and does not seem to provide an adequate indicator for CSAs in the study catchments. However, CSAs may be used in conjunction with soil P data for help in determining a more “effective” catchment soil P status. The difficulties in defining CSAs a priori, particularly for modeling and prediction purposes, however, suggest that other more “integrated” measures of catchment soil P status, such as baseflow P concentrations or streambed sediment P concentrations, might be more useful. Since observed soil P distribution is variable and is also difficult to relate to nationally available soil P data, any assessment of soil P status for determining risk of P loss is uncertain and problematic, given other catchment physicochemical characteristics and the sampling strategy employed.
Dietary Strategies for Reduced Phosphorus Excretion and Improved Water Quality
Authors: Maguire R. O. , Dou Z. , Sims J. T. , Brake J. , Joern B. C. 
Published: November 2005

ABSTRACTCost effective feeding strategies are essential to deal with P surpluses associated with intensive animal agriculture and the consequent impact on water quality. Reduction of P overfeeding, use of feed additives to enhance dietary P utilization, and development of high available phosphorus (HAP) grains have all been shown to decrease fecal P excretion without impairing animal performance. Much progress has been made, but more research will be needed to refine these strategies to maximize reductions in P excretion while maintaining animal performance. Recent research has focused on the impact of modifying dietary P on the forms of P excreted and the mobility of P in soils amended with these manures, with strong treatment trends becoming evident in the literature. In general, dietary strategies have been developed that can effectively reduce the total P concentration in manures produced, and combining strategies usually leads to greater reductions than individual practices. However, the impact of different approaches on the solubility of P in manures and amended soils has been more variable. Soluble P remains of particular concern due to links between solubility of P in manure and P losses from manure‐amended soils. In this paper, we outline the major strategies for reducing dietary P in different species, review the literature on the impact of these approaches on P forms in manures and amended soils, and discuss the potential beneficial effects on animal agriculture and the environment.
Can Constructed Wetlands Reduce the Diffuse Phosphorus Loads to Eutrophic Water in Cold Temperate Regions?
Authors: Braskerud B. C. , Tonderski K. S. , Wedding B. , Bakke R. , Blankenberg A.‐G. B. , Ulén B. , Koskiaho J. 
Published: November 2005

ABSTRACTConstruction of wetlands is a possible supplement to best management practices (BMP) at the field level to mitigate phosphorus (P) pollution from agricultural areas. In this paper, annual results from 17 intensively studied wetlands in the cold temperate or boreal climatic zone are reported and analyzed. Surface areas varied from 0.007 to 8.7% of the catchment area. The average total phosphorus (TP) retention varied from 1 to 88%, and the dissolved reactive phosphorus (DRP) retention from −19 to 89%. Retention varied substantially from site to site, indicating the existence of site‐specific factors in the catchment and wetlands that influenced the P removal. Factors important for P retention in wetlands were evaluated through multiple statistical analyses by dividing P into two fractions: particulate phosphorus (PP) and DRP. Both relative (%) PP and DRP retention increased with wetland surface area. However, PP retention was not as sensitive as DRP in terms of wetland size and retention: specific PP retention (gram P retention per m2 and year) decreased as wetland area (Aw) increased, suggesting the existence of a site‐specific optimal wetland to catchment area (Ac) ratio. Particulate P retention decreased with increasing DRP to TP ratio, while the opposite was found for DRP. Dissolved reactive P retention was higher in new than in old wetlands, while increasing age did not influence PP retention negatively. Effective BMP in the catchment is important to keep the P loss low, because the outlet concentration of P from wetlands is often positively correlated to the input concentration. However, wetlands act as the last buffer in a catchment, since the retention often increases as the P concentration in streams increases.
Using Gypsum to Reduce Phosphorus in Runoff from Subcatchments in South Australia
Authors: Cox J. W. , Varcoe J. , Chittleborough D. J. , van Leeuwen J. 
Published: November 2005

ABSTRACTConcentrations of phosphorus (P) in runoff from agricultural catchments in southern Australia are high and well above national and international limits. Phosphorus was found to exit two subcatchments of 3.6 and 4.2 ha in the Adelaide hills via both overland flow and interflow. The subcatchments had texture‐contrast soils with high inputs of superphosphate and were openly grazed by cattle all year. Interflow at the boundary of the B and C soil horizons accounted for as much as half the total water flow that was measured (overland flow, A–B interflow, and B–C interflow). The average flow‐weighted concentration of total P within overland flow was as high as 0.25 mg L−1, and 0.05 mg L−1 in B–C interflow. In most years P loss was in the dissolved (<0.45 μm) form. In some years, interflow was the major pathway for P loss off these catchments. The B–C interflow cannot be discounted when searching for management options to reduce P loss from texture‐contrast soils to waterways. Preliminary laboratory experiments showed promise that gypsum could modify agricultural soils and reduce the concentrations of P (and dissolved organic C) in runoff before it enters public water supply reservoirs. In this study, gypsum, applied at a rate of 15 Mg ha−1 to the 4.2‐ha subcatchment, substantially modified the soil chemistry, and thereby soil structure. The size and stability of structural aggregates increased markedly and this change affected not only the A but also the upper B horizons, to a profile depth of approximately 50 cm. However, the impact of these physicochemical changes on P concentrations in runoff was not marked. Average profile P concentrations were only slightly lower in the runoff from the subcatchment following treatment. The high subsoil macroporosity of the gypsum‐treated subcatchment caused an increase in the proportion of runoff by interflow.
Soil Chemical Changes Resulting from Irrigation with Water Co‐Produced with Coalbed Natural Gas
Authors: Ganjegunte Girisha K. , Vance George F. , King Lyle A. 
Published: November 2005

ABSTRACTLand application of coalbed natural gas (CBNG) co‐produced water is a popular management option within northwestern Powder River Basin (PRB) of Wyoming. This study evaluated the impacts of land application of CBNG waters on soil chemical properties at five sites. Soil samples were collected from different depths (0–5, 5–15, 15–30, 30–60, 60–90, and 90–120 cm) from sites that were irrigated with CBNG water for 2 to 3 yr and control sites. Chemical properties of CBNG water used for irrigation on the study sites indicate that electrical conductivity of CBNG water (ECw) and sodium adsorption ratio of CBNG water (SARw) values were greater than those recommended for irrigation use on the soils at the study sites. Soil chemical analyses indicated that electrical conductivity of soil saturated paste extracts (ECe) and sodium adsorption ratio of soil saturated paste extracts (SARe) values for irrigated sites were significantly greater (P < 0.05) than control plots in the upper 30‐cm soil depths. Mass balance calculations suggested that there has been significant buildup of Na in irrigated soils due to CBNG irrigation water as well as Na mobilization within the soil profiles. Results indicate that irrigation with CBNG water significantly impacts certain soil properties, particularly if amendments are not properly utilized. This study provides information for better understanding changes in soil properties due to land application of CBNG water. These changes must be considered in developing possible criteria for preserving fragile PRB ecosystems.
The role of developmental assets in predicting academic achievement: A longitudinal study
Authors: Scales Peter C. , Benson Peter L. , Roehlkepartain Eugene C. , Sesma Arturo , van Dulmen Manfred 
Published: November 2005

ABSTRACTA sample of 370 students in the 7th–9th grades in 1998 was followed for 3 years through the 10th–12th grades in order to investigate the relation of “developmental assets”—positive relationships, opportunities, skills, values, and self‐perceptions—to academic achievement over time, using actual GPA as the key outcome variable. The greater the number of developmental assets students reported in the 7th–9th grades, the higher their GPA in the 10th–12th grades. Students who stayed stable or increased in their asset levels had significantly higher GPAs in 2001 than students whose asset levels decreased. Increases in assets were significantly associated with increases in GPA. Experiencing in 1998 clusters of specific assets increased by 2–3 times the odds of students having a B+ or higher GPA in 2001. The results offer promising evidence that a broad focus on building the developmental nutrients in young people's lives may contribute to academic success.
Ontogenetic profile of ectonucleotidase activities from brain synaptosomes of pilocarpine‐treated rats
Authors: de Paula Cognato Giana , Bruno Alessandra Nejar , Vuaden Fernanda Cenci , Sarkis João José Freitas , Bonan Carla Denise 
Published: November 2005

AbstractAdenosine, a well‐known neuromodulator, can act as an endogenous anticonvulsant via the activation of adenosine A1 receptors. This adenine nucleoside can be produced in the synaptic cleft by the ectonucleotidase cascade, which includes the nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase (NTPDase) family and ecto‐5′‐nucleotidase. It has been previously reported that ectonucleotidase activities are increased in female adult rats submitted to the pilocarpine model of epilepsy. Several studies have suggested that the immature brain is less vulnerable to morphologic and physiologic alterations after status epilepticus (SE). Here, we evaluate the ectonucleotidase activities of synaptosomes from the hippocampus and cerebral cortex of male and female rats at different ages (7–9, 14–16 and 27–30‐day old) submitted to the pilocarpine model of epilepsy. Our results show that ATP and ADP hydrolysis in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex were not altered by the pilocarpine treatment in female and male rats at 7–9, 14–16 and 27–30 days. There were no changes in AMP hydrolysis in female and male rats submitted to the model at different ages, but a significant increase in AMP hydrolysis (71%) was observed in synaptosomes from the cerebral cortex of male rats at 27–30 days. Pilocarpine‐treated male rats (60–70‐day old) presented an enhancement in ectonucleotidase activities in the synaptosomes of the cerebral cortex (33, 40 and 64% for ATP, ADP and AMP hydrolysis, respectively) and hippocampus (55, 98 and 101% for ATP, ADP and AMP hydrolysis, respectively). These findings highlight differences between the purinergic system of young and adult rats submitted to the pilocarpine model of epilepsy.
Cartilaginous Choristoma of the Bony External Auditory Canal: A Study of 36 Cases
Authors: Lee Fei‐Peng 
Published: November 2005

OBJECTIVEThe study goal is to present the clinical data of 36 cases of heterotopic cartilaginous mass in the bony external auditory canal and to clarify the terminology used to describe this clinical entity.STUDY DESIGN AND SETTINGWe conducted a medical record review of 36 consecutive patients with lesions (26 of which were excised) seen at two Departments of Otolaryngology in Taiwan.RESULTSHistopathological examination revealed that all 26 excised lesions were composed of mature hyaline cartilage, and on this basis, cartilaginous choristoma was diagnosed.CONCLUSIONThe presence of a heterotopic cartilaginous mass in the bony external ear canal is not as rare as it was once thought to be. The descriptive term “cartilaginous choristoma” rather than “chondroma” may be more appropriate for these lesions.
The Feasibility of the Retrofacial Approach to the Pediatric Sinus Tympani
Authors: Chen Bin , Yin Shankai , Shen Pingjiang 
Published: November 2005

OBJECTIVETo investigate the feasibility of the retrofacial approach to the pediatric sinus tympani (ST).STUDY DESIGN AND SETTINGFive pediatric cholesteatoma cases, 10 pediatric and 24 adult normal specimens were studied retrospectively using high‐resolution CT measurements in our university hospital. The normal pediatric and adult specimens also underwent temporal bone dissections. CT measurements included the depth (d‐ST) and the width (w‐ST) of ST, the distance (F‐PSC) from the facial canal to the posterior semicircular canal, and the distance (P‐ST) from the depth of ST on a line perpendicular to the F‐PSC line.RESULTSThere were no significant differences in any measurements between pediatric and adult normal specimens and between pediatric diseased and normal specimens (P> 0.05). The retrofacial approach performed in pediatric specimens was no more complex than in adult specimens. F‐PSC>3.0 mm and P‐ST<2.0 mm provided an accessible approach to the pediatric ST.CONCLUSIONThe retrofacial approach can be used in selected pediatric cases.SIGNIFICANCEThis approach plays its individual role to eradicate cholesteatoma in a difficult‐to‐reach pediatric ST.
Prevalence of Menière's Disease in General Population of Southern Finland
Authors: Havia Mari , Kentala Erna , PyykkÖ Ilmari 
Published: November 2005

OBJECTIVETo study the prevalence of Menière's disease (MD) in the general population of Southern Finland.STUDY DESIGN AND SETTINGProspective study based on population register data. A questionnaire was sent to 5000 randomly selected persons aged 12 years or more living in the Helsinki University Hospital area. We enquired about whether recipients had experienced vertigo associated with a moving sensation, hearing loss, or tinnitus. For exclusion purposes, we also asked about general illnesses, ear infections, former head and ear traumas, noise exposure, medication, and use of tobacco and alcohol. To assess the validity of the population‐based study, we randomly selected a sample of 100 people among those reporting vertigo. They were clinically examined at our vestibular unit. The clinical examination was supplemented by audiologic and otoneurologic tests.RESULTSThe response rate was 63%. In the final study sample of 3116 people, 216 reported the triad of vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus. By using the most recent criteria of the Committee on Hearing and Equilibrium of the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, we were able to identify 16 definite MD patients from the total sample, yielding a prevalence of 513 of 100,000 persons. Among the 16 MD subjects, 9 patients had already been diagnosed with MD and 1 patient was diagnosed during the clinical examination. A peak prevalence of 1709 of 100,000 was seen in the age group 61 to 70 years.CONCLUSIONSOur population‐based estimate of MD prevalence is much higher than in previous reports.