bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peso do baço como fator prognóstico do tratamento cirúrgico de pacientes portadores de esquistossomose mansônica
Authors: Ferraz Álvaro Antônio Bandeira , Lopes Edmundo Pessoa de Almeida , Araújo Júnior José Guido Corrêa de , Lima Bruno de Andrade , Cantarelli Fabiano , Ferraz Edmundo Machado
Published: November 2008

OBJETIVO: Analisar pré-operatoriamente o peso do baço como fator prognóstico do tratamento cirúrgico de pacientes portadores de esquistossomose mansônica. MÉTODOS: Foram analisados 114 pacientes, portadores de esquistossomose mansônica com antecedentes de hemorragia digestiva, submetidos a tratamento cirúrgico. Os pacientes foram divididos em três grupos: Grupo 1 - baço menor que 500 gramas (17); Grupo 2 - baço entre 500 e 1.000 gramas (58); Grupo 3 - baço acima de 1.000 gramas (39). RESULTADOS: No Grupo 1 a recidiva hemorrágica foi de 17,6%, trombose da veia porta de 5,9% e não houve mortalidade. A incidência de hiperesplenismo pré-operatório foi de 29,4% e o calibre da veia porta foi de 1,1cm. No Grupo 2 a recidiva hemorrágica foi de 15,5%, trombose da veia porta de 10,3% e a mortalidade de quatro pacientes (6,9%) (dois pacientes no período pós-operatório e dois no seguimento tardio, hepatocarcinoma e hemorragia digestiva). A incidência de hiperesplenismo foi de 53,4% e o calibre médio da veia porta foi de 1,4cm. No Grupo 3 a recidiva hemorrágica foi de 12,8%, trombose da veia porta de 5,1% e uma mortalidade tardia de dois pacientes (linfoma e infarto agudo do miocárdio). A incidência de hiperesplenismo foi de 76,9% e o calibre da veia porta foi de 1,5cm. CONCLUSÕES: O peso do baço apresenta relação com o hiperesplenismo pré-operatório, calibre da veia porta e permanência hospitalar pós-operatória. Não encontramos relação com a incidência de varizes de fundo gástrico, recidiva de sangramento digestivo, trombose da veia porta, grau de fibrose periportal e dados bioquímicos.
Boron and calcium sprayed on 'Fuyu' persimmon tree prevent skin cracks, groove and browning of fruit during cold storage
Authors: Ferri Valdecir Carlos , Rombaldi Cesar Valmor , Silva Jorge Adolfo , Pegoraro Camila , Nora Leonardo , Antunes Pedro Luiz , Girardi Cesar Luiz , Tibola Casiane Salete
Published: November 2008

Flesh softening, skin browning and rotting are chief problems during cold storage (CS) of 'Fuyu' Persimmon. We studied the effects of boron (B) and calcium (Ca) sprayed on the trees during three consecutive years, on the development of skin cracks, grooves and browning in persimmon fruit under CS in Farroupilha, RS, Brazil (29°31' south, 51°21' west, about 750 m altitude). A homogeneous orchard area of 0.5 ha was delimitated and three sets of five plants for each treatment were randomly selected. The persimmon trees were sprayed at a 20 day interval, from 15th January until harvest, for three consecutive years, with: T1) water; T2) calcium nitrate at 0.5% (m/v); T3) calcium chloride at 0.5% (m/v); and T4) boron at 0.3% (m/v). The fruit were harvest with orange-reddish colour; 18-20°Brix, pulp firmness of 45 to 60N, and kept under CS at 0±1°C for 45 days. The fruits were evaluated immediately before CS, after six hours at 23±2°C after removal from CS, and after four days at 23±2°C after removal from CS. Equally boron and calcium sprayed on the trees prevented skin cracks, skin grooves and skin browning. Besides, when boron was sprayed on the trees, the mentioned effects were additive in the following year.
Produção de pneumotórax em cães e manejo por toracoscopia paraxifóide transdiafragmática
Authors: Pigatto Juliana , Brun Maurício Veloso , Barcellos Leonardo José Gil , Rausch Stella Falkenberg , Phol Virgínia Heinze , Feranti João Pedro Scussel , Guedes Rogério Luizari
Published: November 2008

O presente estudo foi desenvolvido com o objetivo de avaliar a técnica de toracoscopia paraxifóide transdiafragmática no diagnóstico e no tratamento do pneumotórax produzido experimentalmente em cães. Para tanto, foram utilizados 11 cães que foram submetidos à produção de pneumotórax grave a partir da aplicação de 10mLkg-1 de ar em cada hemitórax até apresentarem descompensação hemodinâmica. Concomitantemente, foram aferidas a correlação entre a pressão venosa central (PVC) e o volume de ar introduzido (mL kg-1), bem como FC, FR, TPC, SpO2 e coloração das mucosas. O pneumotórax foi tratado pela aplicação de dreno torácico por meio de um trocarte inserido no lado direito (seis animais) ou esquerdo (cinco animais) do apêndice xifóide por meio do diafragma. A introdução em volume igual ou superior a 50ml kg-1hemitórax-1 de ar causou descompensação cardiorrespiratória e elevação da PVC acima de 10cm H2O em todos os pacientes. A técnica proposta permitiu apropriado exame da cavidade torácica e aplicação do dreno com efetiva drenagem, sem a ocorrência de complicações trans e pós-operatórias, condição confirmada pela toracoscopia intercostal aos 15 dias de pós-operatório. Conclui-se que o modelo de produção do pneumotórax e a técnica de colocação de dreno proposta para o manejo dessa doença são adequados para cães.
Otimização da técnica da PCR para a detecção de Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae
Authors: Souza Karina Koerich de , Klein Catia Silene , Kich Jalusa Deon , Coldebella Arlei , Alberton Geraldo Camilo
Published: November 2008

A utilização de métodos moleculares baseados em PCR é fundamental na detecção do Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, sendo capaz de identificar a infecção antes do estabelecimento da doença no rebanho. Estes métodos apresentam maior sensibilidade quando comparados com métodos tradicionais de isolamento bacteriano, mas podem sofrer influência de substâncias que reduzem a especificidade do teste e proporcionam o aparecimento de amplificações inespecíficas. No intuito de reduzir as amplificações inespecíficas, observadas quando aplicada a PCR para o gene cpx em amostras de tecido tonsilar, procedeu-se a otimização da técnica, na qual foram analisados o efeito do pré-cultivo bacteriano e as diferentes temperaturas de anelamento dos iniciadores e foi introduzido, no protocolo, um anticorpo que se liga na enzima Taq DNA Polimerase, aumentando a especificidade do teste. Paralelamente, foi realizado um experimento para verificar o efeito inibidor do tecido tonsilar sobre os resultados da PCR. Para isso, porções de tonsila de animais negativos para A. pleuropneumoniae foram contaminadas artificialmente com a amostra referência do sorotipo 5B. A adição do anticorpo para a enzima Taq DNA Polimerase e o aumento da temperatura de anelamento dos iniciadores para 57°C diminuiu o aparecimento de amplificações inespecíficas. Os resultados obtidos no experimento demonstraram que o tecido tonsilar possui efeito inibidor nas amplificações da PCR. Além disso, a amplificação depende de, no mínimo, 675 UFC presentes na alíquota da amostra usada na PCR (equivalente a 1,35 x 10(5) UFC mL-1), assim, amostras de fragmentos de tecido de infecções iniciais e/ou com poucas células podem apresentar resultados falsos negativos.
Adição de piruvato de sódio e trolox ao diluidor utilizado para congelação de sêmen de garanhões férteis e subférteis
Authors: Silva Karen Mascaro Gonçalves da , Gamboa Sandra Cristina , Rodrigues Ana Sofia , Santos João Ramalho , Guerra Maria Madalena Pessoa
Published: November 2008

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito do piruvato e trolox (forma solúvel da vitamina E) sobre a qualidade espermática pós-descongelamento. Assim, com o intuito de proteger as células espermáticas dos efeitos deletérios da criopreservação,foram considerados os seguintes tratamentos: T1 (Controle)= INRA82-HEPES sem antioxidantes; T2= INRA82-HEPES + 2mM de piruvato e T3= INRA82-HEPES + 120mM de trolox. As amostras de sêmen descongeladas foram avaliadas quanto à motilidade total (MT) e progressiva (MP),a integridades de membrana plasmática e acrossômica, integridade do DNA, à estabilidade de membrana e ao potencial de membrana mitocondrial (Δψm). A adiηγo de piruvato proporcionou resultados superiores (P<0,05) àqueles obtidos com trolox na motilidade espermática total (9,17 e 14,5%, respectivamente). A adição de piruvato incrementa a motilidade espermática (18,92 e 19,0%, respectivamente) em garanhões férteis e subférteis submetidos à congelação.
Efeito do ácido tartárico nos valores de potássio, acidez titulável e pH durante a vinificação de uvas Cabernet Sauvignon
Authors: Daudt Carlos Eugenio , Fogaça Aline de Oliveira
Published: November 2008

Vinhos tintos com altos valores de pH são resultantes de uvas com valores excessivos de potássio. O excesso de potássio é, geralmente, resultado, do manejo inadequado no vinhedo. Com o intuito de encontrar uma solução tecnológica para o problema de pH nos mostos antes e durante da aplicação de medidas no vinhedo, foram realizadas vinificações em escala piloto com uvas Cabernet Sauvignon adicionando-se ácido tartárico no momento do esmagamento. Assim, três tratamentos, em duplicata, foram feitos com a adição de zero (testemunha), 1 e 2gL-1 de ácido tartárico. Foram utilizados os procedimentos normais de sulfitagem, uso de enzimas pectinolíticas e leveduras selecionadas. A descuba foi realizada após 10 dias e a fermentação malolática foi espontânea. Foram analisados potássio (por fotometria de chama), acidez titulável (por titulometria) e pH (por peagâmetro) no mosto durante a fermentação e no vinho resultante. Potássio foi também analisado nas películas e nas borras submetidas, no entanto, a digestão nitroperclórica antes da análise. Os valores encontrados para potássio (gL-1), acidez titulável (g%) e pH durante a microvinificação foram, respectivamente, na amostra testemunha: 1,98, 0,61, 3,68; tratamento 1: 1,72, 0,70 e 3,63; tratamento 2: 1,41, 0,73 e 3,50. A análise de potássio, nas películas e nas borras nos diferentes tratamentos, apresentou os seguintes valores, respectivamente, para a amostra testemunha em g kg-1 (Matéria Seca): 24,91 e 69.30; tratamento 1: 21,85 e 75.11; tratamento 2: 16,20 e 85.38. A ação do ácido tartárico torna-se mais evidente nas borras, em que quanto maior foi a adição de ácido no mosto maior foi a quantidade de potássio encontrada nestas, reduzindo, desse modo, a quantidade de potássio no vinho. Salienta-se que a adição de ácido tartárico é um paliativo momentâneo e a verdadeira correção deve ser feita no vinhedo, por meio de um manejo adequado.
Estado e educação: o desafio de ampliar a cidadania
Authors: Jacobi Pedro Roberto
Published: November 2008

O artigo aborda o tema da participação como um processo continuado de democratização da gestão da educação. Está estruturado em três partes. Inicialmente, desenvolve-se uma reflexão sobre o conceito de participação em suas diversas dimensões e possibilidades. A segunda parte enfoca os públicos participativos no Brasil privilegiando a institucionalização das relações entre o Estado e a sociedade civil. A terceira parte se centra nas possibilidades de construção de espaços de inovação institucional. As experiências explicitam a existência/inexistência de um potencial de ruptura em torno da distância quase sempre presente entre o poder centralizado e as realidades sociais mutantes e heterogêneas. Isto põe em evidência os limites dos mecanismos existentes formais, verticais, corporativos e clientelistas, construídos para permitir/impedir a participação dos cidadãos nos assuntos públicos. O principal desafio está em fortalecer espaços deliberativos e a modernização dos instrumentos de gestão e de articulação. Para tanto, requer-se uma engenharia sócio-institucional pautada pela premissa da superação das barreiras socioinstitucionais existentes e o necessário fortalecimento na sociedade de políticas pautadas pela inclusão da noção de interesse geral. Isto se potencializa na medida em que o tema da cidadania é assumido como um ponto nodal para a institucionalização da participação dos cidadãos em processos decisórios de interesse público no contexto das políticas educacionais, assim como aquelas que com ela se relacionam e são interdependentes.
O computador como proposta para superar dificuldades de aprendizagem: estratégia ou mito?
Authors: Nepomuceno Keite de Melo , Castro Mônica Rabello de
Published: November 2008

O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar as concepções de dificuldades de aprendizagem de sujeitos envolvidos em programas que utilizam o computador, buscando identificar as expectativas que depositam no recurso tecnológico para a superação do problema. Investigaram-se três programas, num total de doze entrevistas, classificando os sujeitos em três categorias: professor, instrutor e coordenador da proposta. Dois programas funcionavam em escolas públicas, uma do Rio de Janeiro e outra da Baixada Fluminense, e o terceiro em uma escola particular da Zona Sul do Rio de Janeiro. A análise dos dados foi baseada no Modelo da Estratégia Argumentativa. O confronto dos discursos em um mesmo programa revelou distanciamentos, contradições e poucas aproximações: para alguns, não existe dificuldade de aprendizagem; para outros, a dificuldade não é da criança; e, para outros ainda, a dificuldade é da criança e está relacionada a questões psicológicas passíveis de complexas classificações. O computador aparece ora como mero motivador, ora como meio de disciplinar o aluno, ora como meio de expressão e parte do processo ensino-aprendizagem. A existência de conflitos entre as concepções reflete um não-consenso entre os envolvidos, acarretando efeitos impeditivos aos objetivos pretendidos pelos programas.
Clinical Use of Anti‐Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Monoclonal Antibodies in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Chase Judy L.
Published: November 2008

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is the most potent proangiogenic factor and has been identified as an important target of cancer therapy Blocking endothelial cell VEGF activity inhibits tumor angiogenesis; normalizes tumor vasculature, facilitating improved chemotherapy delivery; and prevents the recruitment of progenitor cells from the bone marrow. Bevacizumab, the only United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA)‐approved anti‐VEGF agent, is a monoclonal antibody that inhibits the binding of VEGF to VEGF receptors. The addition of bevacizumab to standard first‐ and second‐line chemotherapy regimens for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer improves overall and progression‐free survival times and increases the time to disease progression. Studies are evaluating bevacizumab as adjuvant therapy. The optimal bevacizumab dosage is unknown, but 5 mg/kg every 2 weeks is currently recommended for initial therapy. A surrogate efficacy marker is needed to optimize bevacizumab use, both for dose and patient selection; the clinical applicability of several surrogate efficacy markers is being evaluated. Generally, bevacizumab is well tolerated; however, several serious adverse effects that may occur (e.g., hypertensive crisis) can usually be appropriately prevented or managed. Although current recommendations suggest the administration of the first bevacizumab dose over 90 minutes to prevent infusion‐related hypersensitivity reactions, recent study results show that 5 and 10 mg/kg can safely be administered over 10 and 20 minutes, respectively. Whether the addition of bevacizumab to metastatic colorectal cancer treatment regimens is a cost‐effective treatment option is unknown; health economic studies are needed. When used for FDA‐approved indications or for off‐label indications being evaluated in select clinical trials, Medicare reimburses for bevacizumab therapy.
Clinical Use of Anti‐Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Monoclonal Antibodies in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Patel Dina K.
Published: November 2008

Cetuximab and panitumumab, monoclonal antibodies used to target the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), were recently approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for use as single agents or in combination with other chemotherapy drugs in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer. The anti‐EGFR monoclonal antibodies, either as single agents or in combination with chemotherapy, have demonstrated clinical activity in this setting. When combined with standard cytotoxic chemotherapy or other targeted agents (e.g., bevacizumab, an anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor monoclonal antibody), anti‐EGFR monoclonal antibodies have been well tolerated and produced minimal toxicities. However, cetuximab and panitumumab appear to benefit only select patients. Predictive markers of efficacy, including EGFR overexpression, development of skin rash, and the absence of a K‐ras mutation, have been evaluated in clinical studies to identify patients likely to respond to anti‐EGFR monoclonal antibody therapy. This review discusses recent clinical studies of anti‐EGFR monoclonal antibodies in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer, predictive markers of their efficacy, and common toxicities associated with their use.
A mixed isograptid-didymograptid graptolite assemblage from the Middle Ordovician of west Gondwana (NW Bolivia): Implications for graptolite paleoecology
Authors: Mitchell Charles , Brussa Edsel D. , Maletz Jörg
Published: November 2008

Black shales of the Coroico Formation are part of a thick succession of Lower and Middle Ordovician strata that were deposited in the Cordillera Oriental foreland basin along the margin of West Gondwana. The basin was inhabited primarily by a cool-water, Atlantic-type graptolite fauna. Newly discovered material from rocks that crop out near the town of Consata in NW Bolivia include unexpected warm-water or Pacific-type elements such asParisograptus caduceusandPseudotrigonograptuswithin an assemblage dominated by abundant pendentDidymograptusspecimens,Cryptograptus schaeferi, and diplograptaceans such asOelandograptus oelandicusandHustedograptus bulmanin. sp.Parisograptus caduceushas generally been considered to be restricted to oceanic depths below those of the epipalagic realm that occupied continental shelves, whereas the remainder of the assemblage is more characteristic of relatively shallow water, epicratonic sites. We interpret this mixed assemblage to be the Atlantic Province, West Gondwanan equivalent of the off-shore isograptid biofacies that is much more widely known from low latitude sites around the globe. These results suggest that in this region of West Gondwana, the properties of local water masses (productivity and physical features such as temperature, salinity, or oxygenation) strongly influenced graptolite species distribution and led to biofacies differentiation among coeval assemblages. It also suggests that some isograptids inhabited the epipelagic biotope in mid to high latitude regions. The new speciesHustedograptus bulmaniis described herein.
Early Eocene Paromomyidae (Mammalia, Primates) from the southern Bighorn Basin, Wyoming: Systematics and evolution
Authors: Silcox Mary T. , Rose Kenneth D. , Bown Thomas M.
Published: November 2008

We present a critical review of the alpha taxonomy and evolution of Eocene North American paromomyid primates, based on analysis of more than 570 stratigraphically controlled dental and gnathic specimens from the early Eocene of the southern Bighorn Basin, Wyoming (Wasatchian, Willwood Formation). In addition to documenting numerous previously unpublished specimens of known taxa (including deciduous teeth), we also describe a new species,Phenacolemur willwoodensisn. sp., from the upper part of the Willwood Formation (Wa 5 and 6). The new species is intermediate in size betweenPhenacolemur simonsiandPhenacolemur citatusand has both primitive features (e.g., retention of m2–3 paraconids, relatively long molar trigonids) and derived traits (e.g., relatively reduced paraconid on m1 and no p4 paracristid, unlikeParomomys). Overall patterns of dental evolution in southern Bighorn Basin paromomyids provide some support for previously hypothesized periods of faunal change (Biohorizons). In particular,Phenacolemur praecoxevolves into the similarly sized but morphologically distinctPhenacolemur fortiorat Biohorizon A, andP. fortioris replaced byP. citatusjust below Biohorizon B. Two taxa previously believed to have become extinct at Biohorizon A(Ignacius graybullianus, P. simonsi)are shown to have persisted about a million years longer than previously thought. The Bighorn Basin paromomyids are of general interest in comprising a very dense sample that allows for the study of patterns of evolution against the backdrop of well-understood patterns of change in other mammalian lineages, and in climatic variables.
Machaeridians from the Lower Silurian (Llandovery, Telychian) of Shropshire, England
Authors: McCobb Lucy M. E. , Bassett Michael G.
Published: November 2008

Machaeridians are marine Palaeozoic fossils, known from sediments of early Ordovician to mid Permian age (Bengtson, 1978; Cooper and Grant, 1972; Kaasa, 1992). Rare, completely articulated specimens reveal that they were long, slender, bilaterally symmetrical animals, covered by a dorsal scleritome comprising longitudinally arranged series of calcite sclerites (e.g., Adrain et al., 1991; Högström and Taylor, 2001a, 2001b). However, most known machaeridians, including those described in this paper, comprise isolated disarticulated sclerites. Until recently, the taxonomic affinities of the group were uncertain, and historically they were assigned to a number of different phyla (e.g., see Adrain, 1992). However, the recent account of an exceptionally preserved specimen with soft tissue anatomy, from the Lower Fezouata Formation (Lower Ordovician, Tremadocian) of Morocco, now indicates that machaeridians were annelid worms (Vinther et al., 2008).
Parasitic polychaetes in the Early Cretaceous Hydrocarbon seep-restricted brachiopodPeregrinella Multicarinata
Authors: Kiel Steffen
Published: November 2008

Hydrothermal vents and methane seeps sustain unique ecosystems with a highly adapted fauna that largely thrives on chemotrophic endosymbionts. This large biomass attracts not only predators but also parasitic taxa like the recently reported oophagous bivalveAcesta bullisisVokes, 1963 that lives permanently attached to a vestimentiferan tube worm (Järnegren et al., 2005). Here I report large brachiopods of the Early Cretaceous seep-restricted genusPeregrinellaOehlert,inFischer, 1887 that were infested by polychaete tubes inside their shells during their lifetime.
Combined chemical (Fluoranthene) and drought effects on Lumbricus rubellus demonstrate the applicability of the independent action model for multiple stressor assessment
Authors: Long Sara M. , Reichenberg Fredrik , Lister Lindsay J. , Hankard Peter K. , Townsend Joanna , Mayer Philipp , Wright Julian , Holmstrup Martin , Svendsen Claus , Spurgeon David J.
Published: November 2008

The combined effect of a chemical (fluoranthene) and a nonchemical stress (reduced soil moisture content) to the widely distributed earthworm Lumbricus rubellus were investigated in a laboratory study. Neither fluoranthene (up to 500 μg/g) nor low soil moisture (15% below optimal) had a significant effect on the survival of the exposed worms, but a significant effect on reproduction (cocoon production rate) was found for both stressors (p < 0.001 in both cases). The response of cocoon production to each stressor could be well described by a logistic model; this suggested that the joint effects may be applicable to description using the independent action (IA) model that is widely used in pharmacology and chemical mixture risk assessment [1]. Fitting of the IA model provided a good description of the combined stressor data (accounting for 53.7% of total variation) and was the most parsimonious model describing joint effect (i.e., the description of the data was not improved by addition of further parameters accounting for synergism or antagonism). Thus, the independent action of the two responses was further supported by measurement of internal fluoranthene exposure. The chemical activity of fluoranthene in worm tissue was correlated only with soil fluoranthene concentration and not with soil moisture content. Taken together these results suggest that the IA model can help interpret the joint effects of chemical and nonchemical stressors. Such analyses should, however, be done with caution since the literature data set suggests that there may be cases where interactions between stressors result in joint effects that differ significantly from IA predictions.
Benthic nutrient sources to hypereutrophic Upper Klamath Lake, Oregon, USA
Authors: Kuwabara James S. , Topping Brent R. , Lynch Dennis D. , Carter James L. , Essaid Hedeff I.
Published: November 2008

Three collecting trips were coordinated in April, May, and August 2006 to sample the water column and benthos of hypereutrophic Upper Klamath Lake (OR, USA) through the annual cyanophyte bloom of Aphanizomenon flos-aquae. A pore-water profiler was designed and fabricated to obtain the first high-resolution (centimeter-scale) estimates of the vertical concentration gradients of macro- and micronutrients for diffusive-flux determinations. A consistently positive benthic flux for soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) was observed with solute release from the sediment, ranging between 0.4 and 6.1 mg/m2/d. The mass flux over an approximate 200-km2 lake area was comparable in magnitude to riverine inputs. An additional concern related to fish toxicity was identified when dissolved ammonium also displayed consistently positive benthic fluxes of 4 to 134 mg/m2/d, again comparable to riverine inputs. Although phosphorus was a logical initial choice by water quality managers for the limiting nutrient when nitrogen-fixing cyanophytes dominate, initial trace-element results from the lake and major inflowing tributaries suggested that the role of iron limitation on primary productivity should be investigated. Dissolved iron became depleted in the lake water column during the course of the algal bloom, while dissolved ammonium and SRP increased. Elevated macroinvertebrate densities, at least of the order of 104 individuals/m2, suggested that the diffusive-flux estimates may be significantly enhanced by bioturbation. In addition, heat-flux modeling indicated that groundwater advection of nutrients could also significantly contribute to internal nutrient loading. Accurate environmental assessments of lentic systems and reasonable expectations for point-source management require quantitative consideration of internal solute sources.
Comparison of water, sediment, and plants for the monitoring of antibiotics: A case study on a river dedicated to fish farming
Authors: Pouliquen Herve , Delepee Raphael , Thorin Chantal , Haury Jacques , Larhantec-Verdier Michaelle , Morvan Marie-Line , Bris Herve Le
Published: November 2008

Oxolinic acid, flumequine, oxytetracycline, and florfenicol are antibiotics commonly used in farming. Because an important percentage of these antibiotics given to fish and cattle ends up, directly or indirectly, in the freshwater environment, suitable tools for the monitoring of these antibiotics are needed. A French river was chosen because of the location of four fish farms and a sewage plant on its main course. First, a passive monitoring program involving water, sediment, and autochthonous bryophytes was performed at 25 sampling sites tested once every three months for one year. Second, an active monitoring method was performed using moss bags for a one-month exposure period, both upstream and downstream of each potential source of antibiotics. Sediment and bryophyte samples, but not water samples, were found to be useful for monitoring environmental contamination by oxolinic acid, flumequine, oxytetracycline, and florfenicol. Sediments and bryophytes also appeared to be complementary media for dating the river's contamination by antibiotics. Data collected by both active and passive monitoring methods confirmed contamination of the river, mainly by flumequine and oxytetracycline, attributable to fish farming but also to terrestrial animal farming and perhaps human pharmaceuticals.
New insights into silt density index and modified fouling index measurements
Authors: Nahrstedt A. , Camargo-Schmale J.
Published: November 2008

In order to investigate the accuracy and reproducibility of the parameters SDI (silt density index) and MFI (modified fouling index), tests in diverse conditions were performed: with three different types of filter holder, two microfilter pore sizes, with and without permeate spacer and with two foulants (alginate as organic foulant and silica flour as the particulate). Additionally the effect of pressure on fouling indices was analysed. It was concluded, that there is a need to define more boundary conditions in the ASTM standard (exact type of filter holder, exact type of membrane, start conditions) for the SDI to achieve a parameter with reliable and comparable values. But in comparison to MFI, SDI seems to be a more robust parameter for a use in practice pertaining to the influence of a feed pressure level and the effective membrane area. The MFI gives more insights in acting mechanisms and offers advantages for research. It shows a correlation to a concentration of particulate or organic foulants. Like the SDI, it is necessary to define and standardize exact boundary conditions for the MFI tests (classified by the use of MF, UF or NF filter media).
Assessing nanofiltration fouling in drinking water treatment using fluorescence fingerprinting and LC-OCD analyses
Authors: Peiris B. R. H. , Hallé C. , Haberkamp J. , Legge R. L. , Peldszus S. , Moresoli C. , Budman H. , Amy G. , Jekel M. , Huck P. M.
Published: November 2008

The natural organic matter (NOM) components causing fouling of nanofiltration membranes used in drinking water applications consists in a complex mixture of humic and fulvic acids, proteins, and carbohydrates of various molecular size and functional groups. Understanding the characteristics of NOM fractions such as humic substances (HS) and biopolymers (proteins and polysaccharides) as foulants is of paramount importance to develop fouling control strategies. Fluorescence spectroscopy is becoming an increasingly popular method for characterizing NOM and shows good potential for online monitoring, as minimal sample pre-treatment and preparation is required, high instrumental sensitivity is available and the technique is non-destructive in nature. In this research an innovative approach involving both fluorescence and LC-OCD analyses is used to identify and to characterise organic membrane foulant.
Regulation of Calcium-Permeable TRPV2 Channel by Insulin in Pancreatic β-Cells
Authors: Hisanaga Etsuko , Nagasawa Masahiro , Ueki Kohjiro , Kulkarni Rohit N. , Mori Masatomo , Kojima Itaru
Published: November 2008

OBJECTIVE—Calcium-permeable cation channel TRPV2 is expressed in pancreatic β-cells. We investigated regulation and function of TRPV2 in β-cells.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—Translocation of TRPV2 was assessed in MIN6 cells and cultured mouse β-cells by transfecting TRPV2 fused to green fluorescent protein or TRPV2 containing c-Myc tag in the extracellular domain. Calcium entry was assessed by monitoring fura-2 fluorescence.

RESULTS—In MIN6 cells, TRPV2 was observed mainly in cytoplasm in an unstimulated condition. Addition of exogenous insulin induced translocation and insertion of TRPV2 to the plasma membrane. Consistent with these observations, insulin increased calcium entry, which was inhibited by tranilast, an inhibitor of TRPV2, or by knockdown of TRPV2 using shRNA. A high concentration of glucose also induced translocation of TRPV2, which was blocked by nefedipine, diazoxide, and somatostatin, agents blocking glucose-induced insulin secretion. Knockdown of the insulin receptor attenuated insulin-induced translocation of TRPV2. Similarly, the effect of insulin on TRPV2 translocation was not observed in a β-cell line derived from islets obtained from a β-cell–specific insulin receptor knockout mouse. Knockdown of TRPV2 or addition of tranilast significantly inhibited insulin secretion induced by a high concentration of glucose. Likewise, cell growth induced by serum and glucose was inhibited by tranilast or by knockdown of TRPV2. Finally, insulin-induced translocation of TRPV2 was observed in cultured mouse β-cells, and knockdown of TRPV2 reduced insulin secretion induced by glucose.

CONCLUSIONS—TRPV2 is regulated by insulin and is involved in the autocrine action of this hormone on β-cells.
In vitro mechanical evaluation of medial plating for pantarsal arthrodesis in dogs
Authors: Guillou Reunan P. , Frank Joseph D. , Sinnott Michael T. , Meyer Eric G. , Haut Roger C. , Déjardin Loïc M.
Published: November 2008

Objective—To compare the bending properties of pantarsal arthrodesis constructs involving either a commercially available medial arthrodesis plate (MAP1) or a specially designed second-generation plate (MAP2) implanted in cadaveric canine limbs and evaluate the effect of calcaneotibial screw (CTS) augmentation on the structural properties of both constructs.

Sample Population—5 pairs of canine hind limbs.

Procedures—Within pairs, specimens were stabilized with an MAP1 or MAP2 and loaded to 80% of body weight, with and without CTS augmentation. Compliance, angular deformation (AD), and plate strains were compared.

Results—Construct compliance and AD did not differ between plates. Maximum plate strain was lower in the MAP2 than in the MAP1 (difference of approx 30%). Augmentation with a CTS reduced compliance, AD, and strains in MAP1 constructs but had no effect on those variables in MAP2 constructs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Because of lower peak strains, the MAP2 may be less susceptible to failure than the MAP1. Furthermore, CTS augmentation was unnecessary with MAP2s, which could minimize intra- and postoperative morbidity. Compared with what is known for dorsal plates, MAP2 constructs were associated with approximately 35% less AD. As a result of improved local stability, one might anticipate earlier fusion of the talocrural joint with an MAP2. In addition, plate peak strain was approximately 3.5 times lower in MAP2s than in dorsal plate constructs, which should result in greater fatigue resistance. The use of MAP2s may be a better alternative to both MAP1s and dorsal plates and could contribute to lower patient morbidity.
Structural characterization of subchondral bone in the distal aspect of third metacarpal bones from Thoroughbred racehorses via micro–computed tomography
Authors: Rubio-Martínez Luis M. , Cruz Antonio M. , Gordon Karen , Hurtig Mark B.
Published: November 2008

Objective—To characterize the microstructure of subchondral bone (SCB) plate and trabecular bone (TBB) of the distopalmar aspect of the condyles of third metacarpal bones (MC3s) from Thoroughbred racehorses at 2 different stages of SCB disease via micro–computed tomography (CT).

Sample Population—12 pairs of MC3s from Thoroughbred racehorses euthanized for various reasons.

Procedures—MC3s were collected from horses with mild (n = 6) or severe (6) SCB disease, as determined via micro-CT. Cubic (6 × 6 × 6-cm) specimens of SCB plate and TBB were cut from the palmar aspect of condyles and sagittal ridges and examined with 3-dimensional micro-CT. For each specimen, apparent bone mineral density (aBMD), true BMD (tBMD), bone volume fraction (BVF), trabecular thickness (TBT), trabecular separation (TBS), and connectivity (CN) were calculated.

Results—Condyles had higher aBMD, tBMD, BVF, and TBT and lower TBS than did the sagittal ridge. In bone specimens with mild SCB changes, SCB plate had higher aBMD, TBT, and CN and lower TBS than did TBB. In bone specimens with severe SCB disease, TBB had higher aBMD and TMD and lower TBS than it did in bone specimens with mild disease, and values were similar to those for SCB plate in bone specimens with severe disease.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The microstructure of SCB of the distopalmar aspect of metacarpal condyles of horses varied according to the severity of changes identified via micro-CT. With mild SCB disease, sclerosis existed in the SCB plate of the condyles; with severe disease, sclerosis also invaded condylar TBB.
Mechanical properties of subchondral bone in the distal aspect of third metacarpal bones from Thoroughbred racehorses
Authors: Rubio-Martínez Luis M. , Cruz Antonio M. , Gordon Karen , Hurtig Mark B.
Published: November 2008

Objective—To characterize the mechanical properties of subchondral bone (SCB) of the distopalmar aspect of the condyles of the third metacarpal bone (MC3) and their correlations with structural aspects of MC3s in Thoroughbred racehorses.

Sample Population—12 pairs of MC3s from Thoroughbred racehorses euthanized for various reasons.

Procedures—MC3s were collected from horses with mild (n = 6) and with severe (6) SCB changes, as determined by micro–computed tomography (CT). Specimens of SCB plate and trabecular bone were cut from the distopalmar aspect of condyles and sagittal ridge and examined with 3-dimensional micro-CT. Specimens were tested in compression, and elastic modulus, yield stress, yield strain, and toughness were calculated. Apparent and true bone mineral density, bone volume fraction, trabecular thickness, trabecular separation, and connectivity were also calculated. Differences in mechanical properties among various classifications of bone were evaluated. Correlations between structural and mechanical variables were also assessed.

Results—No differences were detected between left and right forelimbs. Specimens from condyles had higher values for elastic modulus, yield stress, and toughness than did specimens of sagittal ridge. In SCB with severe changes attributable to SCB disease, SCB plate was weaker and trabecular bone was stronger than in SCB with mild changes. Microstructural and mechanical properties were significantly correlated.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—A marked gradient in mechanical properties of SCB from horses, which could be involved in the pathogenesis of condylar fractures, was detected. Mechanical properties of SCB from the distal aspect of MC3s can be predicted to some extent via micro-CT.
Determination of glomerular filtration rate in anesthetized pigs by use of three-phase whole-kidney computed tomography and Patlak plot analysis
Authors: Alexander Kate , Ybarra Norma , del Castillo Jérôme R. E. , Morin Valérie , Gauvin Dominique , Bichot Sylvain , Beauchamp Guy , Troncy Éric
Published: November 2008

Objective—To develop a whole-kidney computed tomography (CT) technique that would allow 3-point Patlak plot determination of glomular filtration rate (GFR) and assess the correlation of GFR determined via CT (CT-GFR) with GFR determined via renal plasma clearance of inulin (Inu-GFR) in pigs.

Animals—6 healthy anesthetized pigs.

Procedures—Each pig underwent 3-phase whole-kidney helical CT (arterial, early, and late parenchymal phases) before and after contrast medium administration. After contrast medium administration, corrected Hounsfield unit values were determined for each kidney and the aorta. A 3-point Patlak plot for each kidney was generated, and plasma clearance per unit volume was multiplied by renal volume to obtain whole-animal CT-GFR. Correlations of mean Inu-GFR for the left and right kidneys (and combined [total] values) with the corresponding CT-GFRs were assessed via linear regression and Bland-Altman analyses.

Results—Left kidney, right kidney, and total CT-GFRs were good predictors of the respective Inu-GFR values (r2 = 92.3%, r2 = 85.5%, and r2 = 93.7%, respectively). For the left kidney, no significant bias between Inu-GFR and CT-GFR was detected. Right kidney and total CT-GFRs underestimated the corresponding Inu-GFRs (mean underestimation, −8.4 mL•min−1 and −12.6 mL•min−1, respectively).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Three-phase whole-kidney CT with Patlak plot analysis of GFR may underestimate right kidney and total Inu-GFRs in pigs. The Patlak plot generated may be sensitive to nonlinearity caused by temporal variation in GFR. Nonetheless, the 3-phase CT approach offers some practical advantages for simultaneous evaluation of renal morphology and measurement of GFR.
Measurement of serum carboxyterminal cross-linked telopeptide of type I collagen concentration in dogs with osteosarcoma
Authors: Hintermeister John G. , Jones Pamela D. , Hoffmann Walter E. , Siegel Arthur M. , Dervisis Nikolaos G. , Kitchell Barbara E.
Published: November 2008

Objective—To evaluate the usefulness of carboxyterminal cross-linked telopeptide of type I collagen (ICTP) concentrations for screening dogs for the presence of osteosarcoma.

Sample Population—32 client-owned dogs with osteosarcoma (27 dogs with osteosarcoma of the appendicular skeleton and 5 dogs with osteosarcoma of the axial skeleton) and 44 non–tumor-bearing control dogs.

Procedures—Serum was obtained from blood samples collected from dogs with osteosarcoma and from clinically normal dogs. The serum ICTP concentration was determined by use of a commercially available radioimmunoassay for ICTP.

Results—Mean ± SD serum ICTP concentration in the tumor-bearing dogs was 7.32 ± 2.88 ng/mL, and in clinically normal dogs, it was 6.77 ± 2.31 ng/mL; values did not differ significantly. Mean serum ICTP concentration in dogs with appendicular osteosarcoma, compared with that of clinically normal dogs, was not significantly different. Mean serum ICTP concentration in dogs with axial skeletal tumor location was 10.82 ± 2.31 ng/mL, compared with a value of 6.73 ± 2.28 ng/mL in dogs with appendicular osteosarcoma.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—On the basis of the results of this study, serum ICTP concentrations are not a clinically useful screening tool for the detection of appendicular osteosarcoma in dogs. Despite the observation that serum ICTP concentration was higher in dogs with axial osteosarcoma than in clinically normal dogs, serum ICTP concentration determination is not a suitable screening test for osteosarcoma.
Characterization of uveitis induced by use of a single intravitreal injection of bacterial lipopolysaccharide in cats
Authors: Del Sole María J. , Sande Pablo H. , Felipe Antonio E. , Fernandez Diego C. , Keller Sarmiento María I. , Aba Marcelo A. , Rosenstein Ruth E.
Published: November 2008

Objective—To investigate the use of a single intravitreal injection of bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to experimentally induce uveitis in cats.

Animals—7 young male European shorthair cats that were considered physically and ophthalmologically healthy.

Procedures—In each cat, LPS was injected intravitreally into 1 eye; the contralateral eye was injected with the preparation vehicle. During a period of 45 days, both eyes were evaluated by means of clinical evaluation; assessment of the integrity of the blood-aqueous humor barrier (determined via measurement of protein concentration and cell content in samples of aqueous humor); functional analysis (via electroretinography); and following euthanasia, histologic examination of the retinas.

Results—In LPS-treated eyes, several clinical signs were observed until day 45 after injection. Compared with vehicle-treated eyes, intraocular pressure was significantly lower and protein concentration and the number of infiltrating cells were significantly higher in LPS-treated eyes. Mean amplitudes of scotopic electroretinographic a- and b-waves were significantly reduced in eyes injected with LPS, compared with findings in eyes injected with vehicle. At 45 days after injection, LPS-induced alterations in photoreceptors and the middle portion of the retina were detected histologically.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that a single intravitreal injection of LPS in eyes of cats induced clinical, biochemical, functional, and histologic changes that were consistent with the main features of naturally occurring uveitis. This technique may be a useful tool in the investigation of new treatment strategies for uveitis in cats.
Pathophysiologic effects of phenylbutazone on the right dorsal colon in horses
Authors: McConnico Rebecca S. , Morgan Timothy W. , Williams Cathleen C. , Hubert Jeremy D. , Moore Rustin M.
Published: November 2008

Objective—To determine pathophysiologic effects of phenylbutazone on the equine right dorsal colon (RDC).

Animals—12 healthy adult horses.

Procedures—A controlled crossover observational study was conducted. Clinical and serum variables, colonic inflammation (histologic grading), and measurement of myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) concentrations, ingesta volatile fatty acid (VFA) content, and arterial blood flow in the RDC were evaluated for a 21-day period in horses administered phenylbutazone (8.8 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h) or a control substance.

Results—Data from 8 horses were analyzed. Plasma albumin concentrations decreased significantly from days 10 to 21 during phenylbutazone treatment, compared with results during the same days for the control treatment. Phenylbutazone treatment caused neutropenia (< 3.0 × 103 cells/μL). No other clinical or hematologic abnormalities were detected for phenylbutazone or control treatments. Two horses developed colitis while receiving phenylbutazone. No significant differences were detected in the RDC between phenylbutazone and control treatments for MPO activity, MDA and PGE2 concentrations, and histologic evidence of inflammation. Arterial blood flow in the RDC was significantly increased during phenylbutazone treatment, compared with values for the control treatment. Differences were identified in VFA production during phenylbutazone treatment, compared with the control treatment, with a decrease in acetic acid concentrations over time.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Prolonged phenylbutazone administration caused hypoalbuminemia, neutropenia, changes in RDC arterial blood flow, and changes in VFA production. Veterinarians should monitor serum albumin concentrations and neutrophil counts and be cautious when making dosing recommendations for phenylbutazone treatment of horses.
Associations between dietary factors and pancreatitis in dogs
Authors: Lem Kristina Y. , Fosgate Geoffrey T. , Norby Bo , Steiner Jörg M.
Published: November 2008

Objective—To estimate associations between dietary factors and pancreatitis in dogs.

Design—Retrospective case-control study.

Animals—198 dogs with a clinical diagnosis of pancreatitis and 187 control dogs with a diagnosis of renal failure without clinical evidence of pancreatitis.

Procedures—Information on signalment, weight, body condition, dietary intake, medical history, diagnostic tests performed, concurrent diseases, treatments, duration of hospitalization, and discharge status was extracted from medical records. Information on dietary intake, signalment, weight, and medical, surgical, and environmental history was collected through a telephone questionnaire. Logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals.

Results—On the basis of information extracted from the medical record, ingesting unusual food items (OR, 4.3) increased the odds of pancreatitis. On the basis of information gathered through the telephone questionnaire, ingesting unusual food items (OR, 6.1), ingesting table scraps the week before diagnosis (OR, 2.2) or throughout life (OR, 2.2), and getting into the trash (OR, 13.2) increased the odds of pancreatitis. Multivariable modeling indicated that reporting exposure to ≥ 1 dietary factor during the telephone questionnaire (OR, 2.6), being overweight (OR, 1.3) or neutered (OR, 3.6), previous surgery other than neutering (OR, 21.1), and the interaction between neuter status and previous surgery other than neutering (OR, 0.1) were associated with the odds of pancreatitis.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that dietary factors, being neutered, and previous surgery other than neutering increased the odds of pancreatitis in dogs.