bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Fish Assemblages in a Western Iowa Stream Modified by Grade Control Structures
Authors: Litvan Mary E. , Pierce Clay L. , Stewart Timothy W. , Larson Chris J. 
Published: October 2008

Abstract
Over 400 riprap grade control structures (GCSs) have been built in streams of western Iowa to reduce erosion and protect bridges, roads, and farmland. In conjunction with a companion study evaluating fish passage over GCSs in Turkey Creek, we evaluated the differences in fish assemblage and habitat characteristics in reaches immediately downstream from GCSs (GCS sites) and reaches at least 1 km from any GCS (non-GCS sites). The GCS sites were characterized by greater proportions of pool habitat, maximum depths, fish biomass, and abundance of juvenile largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides than were non-GCS sites. Index of biotic integrity (IBI) scores were poor or fair (&lt;43 on a 0–100 scale) and not significantly different between the GCS and non-GCS sites. Additionally, we investigated both the longitudinal changes in fish assemblages in this GCS-fragmented stream and the changes in fish assemblages after slope modifications of three GCSs to facilitate fish passage. Thirteen fish species were present throughout the study area, whereas another 15 species exhibited truncated distributions not extending to the most upstream sampling location. After modification of the GCSs, IBI scores increased at seven of nine sites (mean increase = 4.6 points). Also, channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus were detected 7.3 km upstream at sites where, 2 years before GCS modification, they had been absent from collections. Given the number and distribution of GCSs in western Iowa streams, understanding the effects of these structures is vital to the conservation and management of fish assemblages in this and other regions where GCSs or similar structures are used.
A Novel Approach for the Derivation of Putative Primordial Germ Cells and Sertoli Cells from Human Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Bucay Nathan , Yebra Mayra , Cirulli Vincenzo , Afrikanova Ivka , Kaido Thomas , Hayek Alberto , Montgomery Anthony M.P. 
Published: October 2008

AbstractUsing human embryonic stem cells (hESCs), we describe a novel method for the rapid derivation and enrichment of cells that are comparable to primordial germ cells (PGCs) and Sertoli cells. The methodology described is based on modest changes to the growth conditions commonly used to expand hESCs and does not require genetic manipulation or complex three-dimensional culture. Remarkably, we have determined that simply reducing the size of cultured ESC colonies and manipulating the number of feeding cycles, results in the rapid emergence of cells that are comparable to migratory PGCs. Importantly, these cells can be monitored and purified on the basis of the expression of the chemokine receptor CXCR4. Under more stringent differentiating conditions these cells mature and upregulate the expression of specific germ cell markers. Importantly, this process is accompanied by the development of Sertoli-like support cells. Such cells normally provide trophic support and immunoprotection to developing germ cells and may have significant clinical utility in the prevention of graft rejection. The putative Sertoli-germ cell cocultures generated in this study may ultimately be developed to study and manipulate interactions and processes involved in human gametogenesis.
Skeletal Muscle Differentiation of Embryonic Mesoangioblasts Requires Pax3 Activity
Authors: Messina Graziella , Sirabella Dario , Monteverde Stefania , Galvez Beatriz G. , Tonlorenzi Rossana , Schnapp Esther , De Angelis Luciana , Brunelli Silvia , Relaix Frederic , Buckingham Margaret , Cossu Giulio 
Published: October 2008

Abstract
Mesoangioblasts have been characterized as a population of vessel-associated stem cells able to differentiate into several mesodermal cell types, including skeletal muscle. Here, we report that the paired box transcription factor Pax3 plays a crucial role in directing mouse mesoangioblasts toward skeletal myogenesis in vitro and in vivo. Mesoangioblasts isolated from the aorta of Pax3 null embryos are severely impaired in skeletal muscle differentiation, whereas most other differentiation programs are not affected by the absence of Pax3. Moreover, Pax3−/− null mesoangioblasts failed to rescue the myopathic phenotype of the α-sarcoglycan mutant mouse. In contrast, mesoangioblasts from Pax3 gain of function, Pax3PAX3-FKHR/+, mice display enhanced myogenesis in vitro and are more efficient in regenerating new muscle fibers in this model of muscular dystrophy. These data demonstrate that Pax3 is required for the differentiation of mesoangioblast stem cells into skeletal muscle, in keeping with its role in orchestrating entry into the myogenic program.
Stage-dependent teratogenic and lethal effects exerted by ultraviolet B radiation on Rhinella (Bufo) arenarum embryos
Authors: Castañaga Luis A. , Asorey Cynthia M. , Sandoval María T. , Pérez-Coll Cristina S. , Argibay Teresa I. , Herkovits Jorge 
Published: October 2008

Abstract
The adverse effects of ultraviolet B radiation from 547.2 to 30,096 J/m2 on morphogenesis, cell differentiation, and lethality of amphibian embryos at six developmental stages were evaluated from 24 up to 168 h postexposure. The ultraviolet B radiation lethal dose 10, 50, and 90 values were obtained for all developmental stages evaluated. The lethal dose 50 values, considered as the dose causing lethality in the 50% of the organisms exposed, in J/m2 at 168 h postexposure, ranged from 2,307 to 18,930; gill circulation and blastula were the most susceptible and resistant stages, respectively. Ultraviolet B radiation caused malformations in all developmental stages but was significantly more teratogenic at the gill circulation and complete operculum stages. Moreover, at the gill circulation stage, even the lowest dose (547.2 J/m2) resulted in malformations to 100% of embryos. The most common malformations were persistent yolk plug, bifid spine, reduced body size, delayed development, asymmetry, microcephaly and anencephaly, tail and body flexures toward the irradiated side, agenesia or partial gill development, abnormal pigment distribution, and hypermotility. The stage-dependent susceptibility to ultraviolet B radiation during amphibian embryo-genesis could be explained in the framework of evoecotoxicology, considering ontogenic features as biomarkers of environmental signatures of living forms ancestors during the evolutionary process. The stage-dependent susceptibility to ultraviolet B radiation on Rhinella (Bufo) arenarum embryos for both lethal and teratogenic effects could contribute to a better understanding of the role of the increased ultraviolet B radiation on worldwide amphibian populations decline.
Relations between Varshni and Morse potential energy parameters
Authors: Lim Teik-Cheng , Udyavara Rajendra 
Published: October 2008

Abstract
A set of relationships between the Morse and Varshni potential functions for describing covalent bondstretching energy has been developed by imposing equal force constant and equal energy integral. In view of the extensive adoption of Morse function in molecular force fields, this paper suggests two sets of parameter conversions from Varshni to Morse. The parameter conversion based on equal force constant is applicable for small change in bond length, while the parameter conversion based on equal energy integral is more applicable for significant bond-stretching. Plotted results reveal that the Varshni potential function is more suitable for describing hard bonds rather than soft bonds.
Giant iliac artery aneurysm
Authors: Ugurlucan Murat , Erdim Filiz , Alpagut Ufuk , Tireli Emin , Dayioglu Enver 
Published: October 2008

Abstract
Isolated iliac artery aneuryms are very rare vascular malformations. They can remain unnoticed for long periods of time because of their deep location in the pelvic region. Most of the patients present to the clinic with rupture of the aneurysm, and thus the condition has a very high mortality rate. We report here the case of an 84-year-old man with giant iliac artery aneuryms who was treated successfully by aneurysmectomy and aortoiliac bypass.
The effects of parenteral glutamine on intestinal adaptation in a rat model of short bowel syndrome
Authors: Ucar Ahmet , Kocdor Hilal , Canda Aras , Unlu Sadiye , Cehreli Ruksan , Kocdor Mehmet 
Published: October 2008

Abstract
Short bowel syndrome (SBS) is characterized by the malabsorption of nutrients and fluids that occurs after major intestinal resection, resulting from an adaptation process that begins immediately to increase the mucosal surface area and absorption. Certain nutrients and trophic factors are widely used to increase intestinal adaptation following massive intestinal resection. The efficacy and benefits of glutamine on the intestinal adaptation process is still controversial. This study was conducted to determine the effects of parenteral glutamine administration on intestinal adaptation in a rat model of SBS. Fourteen male Wistar rats were divided into two groups; all 14 underwent 75% small bowel resection. Within each group, rats were assigned to 14 days of treatment with subcutaneous glutamine (0.3 g/kg/day) or isotonic saline daily. Weight changes and histological intestinal adaptation parameters (mucosal thickness, villus height, and crypt depth) were measured. Non-mucosal intestinal changes were evaluated by intestinal fractioned collagen analysis. All rats initially lost weight and began to gain weight postoperatively; however, they did not reach their preoperative weights during the experiment and there was no significant difference between the groups. Histological adaptation parameters were significantly increased after 75% intestinal resection in both groups compared to paired native samples (P<0.01); although the percent of increase was slightly higher in Gln group, no significant difference was detected between the two groups. Fractioned-collagen amounts were found to be similar between groups. The results indicated that parenteral glutamine administration alone does not improve the intestinal adaptation process after massive intestinal resection in rats.
Community acquired infections in elderly population
Authors: Kucukardali Yasar , Oncul Oral , Kunter Erdogan , Turhan Vedat , Solmazgul Emrullah , Terekeci Hakan , Sayan Ozkan , Oktenli Cagatay 
Published: October 2008

Abstract
In geriatric practice, data regarding infections including the epidemiology, morbidity, and mortality are lacking. Our aim was to evaluate the frequency, location, microbiological and laboratory characteristics of infectious diseases in elderly population admitted to a training hospital. The patients were included total of 330 patients, aged over 65 with infection, seen between January 1, 2005 and January 1, 2006. In the result, of patients 136 (41%) had respiratory system infection, 90 (27%) urinary system infection, 39 (12%) gastrointestinal system infection, 34 (10%) bloodstream infections, 17 (5%) soft tissue infection, 8 (2%) central nervous system infections, and 6 (2%) others. Average length of hospitalization was 8.6±7.7 days. Mortality rate from all causes was 57 (17%). The most common infections in elderly patients were respiratory tract and urinary system infections, and there were no fever, leukocytes and high CRP levels in approximately 1/3 of cases. Infectious diseases may occur even in the absence of such infection indicators as fever, raised WBC count and high CRP level in the elderly population.
Galectin-1 expression in innervated and denervated skeletal muscle
Authors: Svensson Anna , Tågerud Sven 
Published: October 2008

AbstractGalectin-1 is a soluble carbohydrate-binding protein with a particularly high expression in skeletal muscle. Galectin-1 has been implicated in skeletal muscle development and in adult muscle regeneration, but also in the degeneration of neuronal processes and/or in peripheral nerve regeneration. Exogenously supplied oxidized galectin-1, which lacks carbohydrate-binding properties, has been shown to promote neurite outgrowth after sciatic nerve sectioning. In this study, we compared the expression of galectin-1 mRNA and immunoreactivity in innervated and denervated mouse and rat hind-limb and hemidiaphragm muscles. The results show that galectin-1 mRNA expression and immunoreactivity are up-regulated following denervation. The galectin-1 mRNA is expressed in the extrasynaptic and perisynaptic regions of the muscle, and its immunoreactivity can be detected in both regions by Western blot analysis. The results are compatible with a role for galectin-1 in facilitating reinnervation of denervated skeletal muscle.
Carbon and nitrogen and their elemental and isotopic ratios in the bottom sediment of the Solina-Myczkowce complex of reservoirs
Authors: Koszelnik Piotr , Tomaszek Janusz , Gruca-Rokosz Renata 
Published: October 2008

Abstract
The studies concerned the ecosystem of the Solina-Myczkowce cascade of reservoirs. While the elemental C:N ratio was higher in the Solina Reservoir branches and in the Myczkowce Reservoir (>10), the values for stations located near the Solina Dam were low (<10). Markedly, the lowest values for δ13C were noted in the Myczkowce Reservoir (-28.5‰), and these contrasted with the higher values found in the Solina Reservoir (ca. -27‰). δ15N varied from 2‰ in the upper Solina to above 3.5-4‰ downstream. While the data obtained indicate the autochthonous origin of sedimentary matter, primary production influences the properties of the bottom sediments in the lower part of the Solina reservoirs.
MR&CT analysis of the qualitative and quantitative structure of macrozoobenthos in selected oxbow lakes of Northern Poland
Authors: Obolewski Krystian , Strzelczak Agnieszka 
Published: October 2008

Abstract
Macrozoobenthos inhabiting six oxbow lakes in the basins of the Słupia, Łyna, and Vistula rivers was investigated during spring, summer, and fall 2002-2006. The researched reservoirs - re-opened, dredged, with a sluice, natural open, natural semi-open, and natural closed - differed in degree of succession and type of connection with the relevant river. In order to determine the dependency of macrozoobenthos structure on type of oxbow lake and season, multivariate regression and classification tree method (MR&CT), and indicator species analysis were applied.
The tree obtained revealed that the natural, semi-open oxbow lake differed distinctly from the others and was a favorable habitat for Diptera (mainly - Chironomidae larvae), Bivalvia, and Gastropoda. The latter taxon turned out to be an indicator for summer, while Insecta and Bivalvia dominated in spring and fall. Meliorated oxbow lakes (re-opened, dredged, with a sluice) were characterized by balanced density of all the macrozoobenthos organisms and the lack of indicator taxa. In turn, high trophy was indicated by Oligochaeta abundant in natural open and natural closed oxbow lakes, and in a reservoir with a sluice.
Application of artificial neural nerworks in oxidation kinetic analysis of nanocomposites
Authors: Straszko Jerzy , Biedunkiewicz Anna , Strzelczak Agnieszka 
Published: October 2008

Application of artificial neural nerworks in oxidation kinetic analysis of nanocomposites
This study concerns the application of artificial neural networks in oxidation kinetic analysis of ceramic nanocomposites. The oxidation of the Ti-Si-C ceramic nanocomposite in dry air was studied. The size of the nanoparticles was determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The gaseous oxidation products were analysed by mass spectroscopy (MS) while the solid oxidation products by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The kinetic analysis of the oxidation was based on the Coats-Redfern equation. The kinetic models were identified for the consecutive stages and then the A and E parameters of the Arrhenius equations were evaluated. Artificial neural networks were used at each step of the kinetic calculations.
Fluctuations of the non-Newtonian fluid flow in a Kenics static mixer: An experimental study
Authors: Peryt-Stawiarska Sylwia , Jaworski Zdzisław 
Published: October 2008

Fluctuations of the non-Newtonian fluid flow in a Kenics static mixer: An experimental study
The measurements for a Kenics static mixer were carried out using Laser Doppler Anemometer (LDA). The test fluid was non-Newtonian solution of CMC, Blanose type 9H4. The velocity data inside the 5th Kenics insert were collected for the axial components at five levels of Reynolds number, Re = 20 ÷ 120. Velocity fluctuations were also analyzed in the frequency domain, after processing them with the help of the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) procedure. The spectra of fluctuations provided information about level of the fluctuations in the observed range of Reynolds number. The obtained data were then also used to plot the velocity profiles for the fifth insert of the Kenics mixer. It was concluded that in the investigated range of Reynolds numbers (Re = 20 ÷ 120) a strong dependence of the velocity profiles and the flow fluctuations on Reynolds number was observed.
Monitoring of the groundwater environment within a landfill site
Authors: Złotoszewska-Niedziałek Hanna 
Published: October 2008

Monitoring of the groundwater environment within a landfill site
The paper presents the hydrogeological conditions and results of monitoring carried out within the "Otwock-Świerk" municipal landfill site. The object is located within the Garwolin Plain - a denuded moraine plateau composed of deposits representing Middle-Polish Glaciations. Wastes are isolated from the surrounding soil-water environment by a 1-ply complex mineral-synthetic diaphragm. The periodical increase of chlorides, total organic carbon (TOC), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and nitrites indicate the presence of pollutants of anthropogenic origin.
The Natures of Maps: Cartographic Constructions of the Natural World
Authors: Wood Denis , Fels John 
Published: October 2008

Editor's Note We are pleased to introduce a new section in Cartographica devoted to a series of invited critiques and commentary on a target article. For the inaugural contribution, we have chosen to examine chapter 1 of a new book by Denis Wood and John Fels, The Natures of Maps (University of Chicago Press, 2008). Responses to this piece have been provided by Chris Perkins (University of Manchester, UK), Gwilym Eades (McGill University, Montreal, Canada), and Rob Kitchin (National University of Ireland, Maynooth). Wood and Fels then offer a short reply. Note that, for reasons of space and of clarity, some notes have been modified in the version provided here, and the colour figures that appear in the book have been omitted. Except in quoted material, US spellings have been replaced by Canadian spellings. (Jeremy W. Crampton)
Personnes âgées et perception des risques en matière de conduite automobile: les conducteurs âgés manifestent-ils encore de l'optimisme comparatif?
Authors: Spitzenstetter Florence , Moessinger Michelle 
Published: October 2008

ABSTRACTPeople frequently expresscomparative optimism; that is, they believe they are less likely than average to experience negative events. The aim of the present study is, first, to observe whether people of more than 65 years are still optimists when they evaluate driving-related risks; and second, to test the assumption that older drivers show less optimism when they compare themselves with average-age drivers than when they compare themselves with same-age drivers. Our results reveal that drivers of more than 65 years do, indeed, express comparative optimism, but, contrary to our expectation, only in a limited number of cases does the age of the comparison target appear to have an effect. These results are particularly discussed in terms of self-image enhancement.
Développement d’une version canadienne-française du Montgomery Borgatta Caregiver Burden Scale
Authors: Farley Nathalie , Demers Louise , Swaine Bonnie R. 
Published: October 2008

ABSTRACTAssessing the burden linked to caring for the frail elderly is becoming an important issue in rehabilitation. The purpose of this study was to translate/validate the Montgomery Borgatta Caregiver Burden Scale into French for use in Canada. This easy-to-use questionnaire evaluates aspects of burden such as objective, subjective stress and subjective demand burden. The instrument underwent: 1) parallel translation/back-translation; 2) expert's committee review leading to an experimental version; 3) pre-test to ensure wording clarity; and 4) study of psychometric properties with bilingual subjects (n = 27) and French-speaking subjects (n = 18). Results suggest that convergence between the original and the French versions is satisfactory for two of the three sub-scales of the MBCBS (ICC 0.83 et 0.96). The test-retest stability coefficients are also very good (ICC of 0.92 et 0.91), as is internal consistency (0.90, 0.66). The objective burden sub-scale correlates moderately with a measure of functional autonomy (SMAF). Results for the subjective burden scale linked to demand are, however, inadequate. All in all, two of the three sub-scales of the French-Canadian version of the Montgomery Borgatta Caregiver Burden Scale demonstrate adequate psychometric properties, thereby favouring its use in geriatric rehabilitation.
Des services à domicile culturellement sensibles : perspective des intervenants et des proches-aidantes originaires d’Haïti en tant que cas traceur
Authors: Ducharme Francine , Paquet Mario , Vissandjée Bilkis , Carpentier Normand , Lévesque Louise , Trudeau Denise 
Published: October 2008

ABSTRACTIn Canada, the care provided by families occurs in an increasingly multiethnic context. Against this backdrop, the present qualitative study aims to explore the needs/expectations and solutions not only of (female) natural caregivers of an elderly relative hailing from Haiti (presented in terms of tracking cases) but also of remunerated home care providers - all with a view to developing a culturally sensitive service offering. As such, this study works from a conceptual framework centring on the negotiation of a common area of agreement between the stakeholders involved (i.e., natural caregivers and home care providers). To this end, focus groups and individual interviews were conducted among 15 caregivers and 37 home care providers. The three recurrent themes emerging from the data analysis concern, in context, the needs/expectations and solutions surrounding the experience of service use, barriers to use, and the relationships between natural caregivers and home care providers. The statements of both groups evidenced a consistency of views and have thus provided a basis for developing some recommendations acceptable to all stakeholders from the perspective of making culturally-based adjustments to the service offering.