bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High Levels of Circulating Epinephrine Trigger Apical Cardiodepression in a β
2
-Adrenergic Receptor/G
i
–Dependent Manner
Authors: Paur Helen , Wright Peter T. , Sikkel Markus B. , Tranter Matthew H. , Mansfield Catherine , O'Gara Peter , Stuckey Daniel J. , Nikolaev Viacheslav O. , Diakonov Ivan , Pannell Laura , Gong Haibin , Sun Hong , Peters Nicholas S. , Petrou Mario , Zheng Zhaolun , Gorelik Julia , Lyon Alexander R. , Harding Sian E.
Published: June 2012

Background—

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy is an acute heart failure syndrome characterized by myocardial hypocontractility from the mid left ventricle to the apex. It is precipitated by extreme stress and can be triggered by intravenous catecholamine administration, particularly epinephrine. Despite its grave presentation, Takotsubo cardiomyopathy is rapidly reversible, with generally good prognosis. We hypothesized that this represents switching of epinephrine signaling through the pleiotropic β
2
-adrenergic receptor (β
2
AR) from canonical stimulatory G-protein–activated cardiostimulant to inhibitory G-protein–activated cardiodepressant pathways.

Methods and Results—

We describe an in vivo rat model in which a high intravenous epinephrine, but not norepinephrine, bolus produces the characteristic reversible apical depression of myocardial contraction coupled with basal hypercontractility. The effect is prevented via G
i
inactivation by pertussis toxin pretreatment. β
2
AR number and functional responses were greater in isolated apical cardiomyocytes than in basal cardiomyocytes, which confirmed the higher apical sensitivity and response to circulating epinephrine. In vitro studies demonstrated high-dose epinephrine can induce direct cardiomyocyte cardiodepression and cardioprotection in a β
2
AR-Gi–dependent manner. Preventing epinephrine-G
i
effects increased mortality in the Takotsubo model, whereas β-blockers that activate β
2
AR-G
i
exacerbated the epinephrine-dependent negative inotropic effects without further deaths. In contrast, levosimendan rescued the acute cardiac dysfunction without increased mortality.

Conclusions—

We suggest that biased agonism of epinephrine for β
2
AR-G
s
at low concentrations and for G
i
at high concentrations underpins the acute apical cardiodepression observed in Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, with an apical-basal gradient in β
2
ARs explaining the differential regional responses. We suggest this epinephrine-specific β
2
AR-G
i
signaling may have evolved as a cardioprotective strategy to limit catecholamine-induced myocardial toxicity during acute stress.
Circulation: Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology's
Editors' Picks
Authors:   The Editors
Published: June 2012

The following articles are being highlighted as part of
Circulation's
Topic Review series. This series summarizes the most important manuscripts, as selected by the editors, published in
Circulation
and the
Circulation
subspecialty journals. The studies included in this article represent the Editors' Picks for each
Circulation: Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology
issue published in 2011.
Renal Hemodynamics and Renal Function After Catheter-Based Renal Sympathetic Denervation in Patients With Resistant Hypertension
Authors: Mahfoud Felix , Cremers Bodo , Janker Julia , Link Britta , Vonend Oliver , Ukena Christian , Linz Dominik , Schmieder Roland , Rump Lars Christian , Kindermann Ingrid , Sobotka Paul Andrew , Krum Henry , Scheller Bruno , Schlaich Markus , Laufs Ulrich , Böhm Michael
Published: June 2012

Increased renal resistive index and urinary albumin excretion are markers of hypertensive end-organ damage and renal vasoconstriction involving increased sympathetic activity. Catheter-based sympathetic renal denervation (RD) offers a new approach to reduce renal sympathetic activity and blood pressure in resistant hypertension. The influence of RD on renal hemodynamics, renal function, and urinary albumin excretion has not been studied. One hundred consecutive patients with resistant hypertension were included in the study; 88 underwent interventional RD and 12 served as controls. Systolic, diastolic, and pulse pressure, as well renal resistive index in interlobar arteries, renal function, and urinary albumin excretion, were measured before and at 3 and 6 months of follow-up. RD reduced systolic, diastolic, and pulse pressure at 3 and 6 months by 22.7/26.6 mm Hg, 7.7/9.7 mm Hg, and 15.1/17.5 mm Hg (
P
for all <0.001), respectively, without significant changes in the control group. SBP reduction after 6 months correlated with SBP baseline values (
r
=−0.46;
P
<0.001). There were no renal artery stenoses, dissections, or aneurysms during 6 months of follow-up. Renal resistive index decreased from 0.691±0.01 at baseline to 0.674±0.01 and 0.670±0.01 (
P
=0.037/0.017) at 3- and 6-month follow-up. Mean cystatin C glomerular filtration rate and urinary albumin excretion remained unchanged after RD; however, the number of patients with microalbuminuria or macroalbuminuria decreased. RD reduced blood pressure, renal resistive index, and incidence of albuminuria without adversely affecting glomerular filtration rate or renal artery structure within 6 months and appears to be a safe and effective therapeutic approach to lower blood pressure in patients with resistant hypertension.
Altered Cardiovascular Rhythmicity in Children Born Small for Gestational Age
Authors: Wolfenstetter Ann , Simonetti Giacomo D. , Pöschl Johannes , Schaefer Franz , Wühl Elke
Published: June 2012

Low birth weight is frequently associated with a disproportionately high incidence of cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, and kidney disease in adulthood. Epidemiological studies have identified an inverse association between low birth weight or being small for gestational age and hypertension in adulthood. We hypothesized that children born with low birth weight might have altered circadian and ultradian cardiovascular rhythmicity independent of the prevailing blood pressure level. Twenty-four–hour ambulatory blood pressure and heart rate rhythmicity was prospectively evaluated by Fourier analysis in a cohort of healthy children born with low birth weight and compared with normative pediatric data. Seventy-five children born small for gestational age (mean age, 8.1±2.2 years) and 139 controls matched for age and sex were investigated. In addition to increased 24-hour, daytime, and especially nighttime blood pressure levels (
P
<0.05), children born small for gestational age exhibited blunted circadian (24-hour) and ultradian (12-, 8-, and 6-hour) blood pressure rhythmicity (
P
<0.05). In a multivariate analysis including children born with low birth weight and controls, being born with low birth weight independently influenced ultradian blood pressure rhythmicity, whereas in a multivariate analysis including children born with low birth weight only, circadian and ultradian rhythms were independently influenced by catch-up growth, gestational age, and blood pressure level. This study demonstrates blunted circadian and ultradian cardiovascular rhythmicity in prepubertal children born small for gestational age, independent from the presence of arterial hypertension. Circadian and ultradian rhythms may be sensitive indicators for detecting subtle early abnormalities of cardiovascular regulation.
How Regional Is Regional Environmental Governance?
Authors: Debarbieux Bernard
Published: June 2012

One of the most striking features of the work of scientists specialized in regional environmental governance is the huge diversity of ways they refer to the notion of region. In this academic subfield, “regionality” refers to different orders of reality (ontology), and regions have a heterogeneous status in the production of knowledge (epistemology). While such a diversity of uses and meanings illustrates the rich potential of a regional scope in environmental governance analysis, scholars' ontological and epistemological stances must be made more explicit. The objective of this commentary is to elaborate this suggestion and to illustrate it on the basis of the articles published in this special issue.
Nonlinear Effects on Convectively Forced Two-Dimensional Mesoscale Flows
Authors: Han Ji-Young , Baik Jong-Jin
Published: June 2012

One of the important problems in mesoscale atmospheric dynamics is how the atmosphere responds to convective heating or cooling. Here, the authors examine nonlinear effects on convectively forced mesoscale flows in the context of the nonlinear response of a stably stratified flow to elevated steady heating in two dimensions using a nondimensional numerical model. Results of two-dimensional numerical experiments in a uniform flow show that even without vertical wind shear, a separation of an upwind cellular updraft from the steady heating-induced main updraft occurs in a highly nonlinear flow system. This separation occurs as the compensating cellular downdraft associated with a secondary maximum in the main updraft develops. As the nonlinearity of the flow system increases, the upwind cellular updraft is separated earlier and becomes stronger. Smaller viscous terms result in the separation of more cellular updrafts, which become stronger and move farther away from the main updraft region. In particular, in an inviscid flow, cellular updrafts are periodically separated from the main updraft, and the first cellular updraft and downdraft have intensities comparable to the intensity of the main updraft. In a viscid flow with a constant vertical wind shear up to a certain height, the propagating cellular updraft and downdraft are produced when the nonlinearity is large, as in a uniform flow. Stronger vertical wind shear leads to the earlier formation of the cellular updraft and its stronger intensity, faster propagating speed, and longer lifetime. Results of numerical experiments with squall line–type forcing imply that the highly nonlinear state is necessary for the development of cellular updrafts.
Symmetric and Asymmetric Structures of Hurricane Boundary Layer in Coupled Atmosphere–Wave–Ocean Models and Observations
Authors: Lee Chia-Ying , Chen Shuyi S.
Published: June 2012

It is widely accepted that air–sea interaction is one of the key factors in controlling tropical cyclone (TC) intensity. However, the physical mechanisms for connecting the upper ocean and air–sea interface with storm structure through the atmospheric boundary layer in TCs are not well understood. This study investigates the air–sea coupling processes using a fully coupled atmosphere–wave–ocean model, especially the coupling-induced asymmetry in surface winds, sea surface temperature, air–sea fluxes, and their impacts on the structure of the hurricane boundary layer (HBL). Numerical experiments of Hurricane Frances (2004) with and without coupling to an ocean model and/or a surface wave model are used to examine the impacts of the ocean and wave coupling, respectively. Model results are compared with the airborne dropsonde and surface wind measurements on board the NOAA WP-3D aircraft. The atmosphere–ocean coupling reduces the mixed-layer depth in the rear-right quadrant due to storm-induced ocean cooling, whereas the wind–wave coupling enhances boundary inflow outside the radius of maximum wind. Storm motion and deep tropospheric inflow create a significant front-to-back asymmetry in the depth of the inflow layer. These results are consistent with the dropsonde observations. The azimuthally averaged inflow layer and the mixed layer, as documented in previous studies, are not representative of the asymmetric HBL. The complex, three-dimensional asymmetric structure in both thermodynamic and dynamic properties of the HBL indicates that it would be difficult to parameterize the effects of air–sea coupling without a fully coupled model.
Can a Regional Climate Model Improve the Ability to Forecast the North American Monsoon?
Authors: Castro Christopher L. , Chang Hsin-I , Dominguez Francina , Carrillo Carlos , Schemm Jae-Kyung , Henry Juang Hann-Ming
Published: June 2012

Global climate models are challenged to represent the North American monsoon, in terms of its climatology and interannual variability. To investigate whether a regional atmospheric model can improve warm season forecasts in North America, a retrospective Climate Forecast System (CFS) model reforecast (1982–2000) and the corresponding NCEP–NCAR reanalysis are dynamically downscaled with the Weather Research and Forecasting model (WRF), with similar parameterization options as used for high-resolution numerical weather prediction and a new spectral nudging capability. The regional model improves the climatological representation of monsoon precipitation because of its more realistic representation of the diurnal cycle of convection. However, it is challenged to capture organized, propagating convection at a distance from terrain, regardless of the boundary forcing data used. Dynamical downscaling of CFS generally yields modest improvement in surface temperature and precipitation anomaly correlations in those regions where it is already positive in the global model. For the North American monsoon region, WRF adds value to the seasonally forecast temperature only in early summer and does not add value to the seasonally forecast precipitation. CFS has a greater ability to represent the large-scale atmospheric circulation in early summer because of the influence of Pacific SST forcing. The temperature and precipitation anomaly correlations in both the global and regional model are thus relatively higher in early summer than late summer. As the dominant modes of early warm season precipitation are better represented in the regional model, given reasonable large-scale atmospheric forcing, dynamical downscaling will add value to warm season seasonal forecasts. CFS performance appears to be inconsistent in this regard.
Diagnosing Seasonal Vegetation Impacts on Evapotranspiration and Its Partitioning at the Catchment Scale during SMEX04–NAME
Authors: Vivoni Enrique R.
Published: June 2012

A fundamental problem in ecohydrology is diagnosing impacts of vegetation dynamics on the catchment response. This study uses a distributed hydrologic model and remote sensing data to evaluate the effects of seasonal vegetation greening on the basin water balance and the partitioning of evapotranspiration ET into soil evaporation, transpiration, and evaporation of intercepted water. Using remotely sensed data, updates are made to model vegetation parameters related to radiation, interception, and transpiration as ecosystems respond to precipitation during the North American monsoon (NAM). Comparisons of simulations with static and seasonally varying vegetation parameters reveal lower ET but higher vegetation-mediated ET losses because of the greening. Sensitivity analyses indicate that vegetation fraction is the primary control on ET and its partitioning, while interception parameters play a secondary role. As a result, spatial patterns in ET partitioning in the catchment exhibit a strong signature of vegetation fraction, though fine (coarse)-scale influences of soil moisture (radiation) are also observed. Vegetation-mediated ET losses were significant in large fractions of the catchment and exhibited ecosystem-dependent seasonal evolutions. The numerical simulations presented here provide the first spatially explicit estimates of ET partitioning accounting for vegetation dynamics obtained from remotely sensed data at the catchment scale.
Fatigue Strength of Ce-TZP/Al2O3 Nanocomposite with Different Surfaces
Authors: Takano T. , Tasaka A. , Yoshinari M. , Sakurai K.
Published: June 2012

Ce-TZP/Al2O3 nanocomposite (NANOZR) has not only higher strength, but also higher fracture toughness than conventional Y-TZP, indicating its potential for use in dental implants. Surface treatment to obtain osseointegration, however, may alter its surface topography, thus affecting the cyclic fatigue strength that plays such an important role in the durability of this material. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of surface treatment on cyclic fatigue strength in NANOZR as compared with grit-blasted and acid-etched Y-TZP (125BE Y-TZP). Bi-axial flexure strength was measured in both static and cyclic fatigue tests, as recommended by ISO 6872. The cyclic fatigue test was performed by the staircase method in distilled water at 37°C, with a load of 106 cycles and 10 Hz. Bi-axial flexure strength of NANOZR was 1111-1237 MPa and 667-881 MPa in the static and cyclic fatigue tests, respectively. The bi-axial flexure strength of NANOZR under all conditions was greater than that of 125BE Y-TZP in the static and cyclic fatigue tests. The cyclic fatigue strength of NANOZR was more than twice that of Y-TZP as specified in ISO 13356 for surgical implants (320 MPa), indicating the promise of this material for use in dental implants.
Randomized Trial on Fluorides and Sealants for Fissure Caries Prevention
Authors: Liu B.Y. , Lo E.C.M. , Chu C.H. , Lin H.C.
Published: June 2012

To investigate the effectiveness of topical fluorides in preventing fissure caries, we conducted a randomized controlled trial with parallel groups. In total, 501 children (1,539 molars, 3,078 sites), mean age 9.1 years, who had at least one sound permanent first molar with deep fissures or fissures with signs of early caries were recruited. They were randomly allocated among four groups: (1) resin sealant, single placement; (2) 5% NaF varnish, semi-annual application; (3) 38% silver diamine fluoride (SDF) solution, annual application; and (4) placebo control. Follow-up examinations were conducted every 6 months by a masked examiner. After 24 months, 485 children (97%) were examined. Proportions of pit/fissure sites with dentin caries in the sealant, NaF, SDF, and control groups were 1.6%, 2.4%, 2.2%, and 4.6%, respectively. A multi-level logistic regression analysis accounting for the effects of data clustering and confounding factors showed that fissures in any of the three treatment groups had significantly lower risks of carious cavity development into dentin than did controls (p < 0.05). We concluded that placement of resin sealant, semi-annual application of NaF varnish, and annual application of SDF solution are all effective in preventing pit and fissure caries in permanent molars ( ClinicalTrials.gov number CT01446107).
A Comparison of Activity-Based Intervention and Embedded Direct Instruction When Teaching Emergent Literacy Skills
Authors: Botts Dawn C. , Losardo Angela S. , Tillery Christina Y. , Werts Margaret G.
Published: June 2012

This replication study focused on the effectiveness of two different intervention approaches, activity-based intervention and embedded direct instruction, on the acquisition, generalization, and maintenance of phonological awareness, a key area of emergent literacy, by preschool children with language delays. Five male preschool participants with language delay were treated with a modified alternating-treatments design. Embedded direct instruction was more effective and efficient in the acquisition of phonological awareness skills for preschool children with language delays. Embedded direct instruction was also more effective in the generalization of emergent literacy skills to probe generalization sessions, as well as in the percentage of maintained skills. Preschool children who are at risk of acquiring foundational skills necessary for the development of conventional literacy would benefit from an explicit, systematic instructional approach. Embedded direct instruction provided the structure necessary to promote effective and efficient acquisition of skills, as well as generalization and maintenance of learning.
A rapid process of ramie bio-degumming by Pectobacterium sp. CXJZU-120
Authors: Liu Zhengchu , Duan Shengwen , Sun Qingxiang , Peng Yuande , Feng Xiangyuan , Zheng Ke , Hu Zhenxiu , Zhang Yunxiong
Published: June 2012

Factory tests for rapid process of ramie bio-degumming by Pectobacterium sp. CXJZU-120 were conducted and evaluated comparing the processes of traditional chemical degumming and bio-chemical degumming. Results revealed that over 90% of the gum in raw ramie could be removed only with Pectobacterium sp. CXJZU-120 in 6 h. The rapid process was not only suitable for the extraction of ramie fibers from different grades of raw material and retaining the inherent morphological structures and textile properties, but also could reduce the production cost up to 20.5%, raise resource utilization by more than 50% and reduce pollution charge by more than 80% compared with the traditional chemical degumming. It is a breakthrough in the degumming of ramie and has great application potential in the extraction of herbaceous fiber materials.
Efficiency of four sampling methods used to detect two common nosocomial pathogens on textiles
Authors: Rabuza Urška , Šostar-Turk Sonja , Fijan Sabina
Published: June 2012

Detecting microorganisms on textiles is useful for many purposes, for example to determine the bioburden before laundering, assess the reduction in bacterial counts in connection with various laundry processes, or trace transfer routes in infection control investigations. Therefore a validated, reproducible and rational method is needed. For sampling microorganisms on textile surfaces the most commonly used method is the contact plate method using RODAC plates, first described by Hall and Hartnett followed by the swab sampling technique. Both methods can only capture microorganisms on the surface of the textiles while microorganisms that have penetrated into the deeper structure of the material will not be detected. In our research the contact plate method and the swabbing technique were compared with two wash-off methods. For the first wash-off method the destructive elution method was used, where microorganisms were eluted from the fabrics by shaking the fabrics for a certain time in an elution medium. For the fourth sampling method a nondestructive method that included a compact test device called Morapex® was used, which is based on forced desorption by pressing the microorganisms through the fabric without destroying the fabric.

In our research, two types of microorganisms were included ( Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus) that cause common nosocomial infections. The aim of this study was to compare the efficiency of the four sampling methods for detecting microorganisms on textiles and to determine the lowest concentration, which can still be detected. The percentage of microorganisms that were detected by both elution methods was substantially higher than by sampling of fabrics with the contact plate method or swabbing. It can be concluded that a nondestructive method using a modified Morapex® device can be applied for quick determination of the hygienic condition of textiles.
Effects of gamma radiation on the mechanical properties of and susceptibility to biodegradation of natural fibers
Authors: Machnowski Waldemar , Gutarowska Beata , Perkowski Jan , Wrzosek Henryk
Published: June 2012

The effect of gamma radiation on the mechanical properties and surface structure of woven fabrics made of cotton, flax, and silk fibers was investigated. It was found that small radiation doses (up to 15 kGy), sufficient for effective disinfection of textiles, caused only insignificant changes in the fiber parameters tested. However, it was found that doses increased to 100 kGy bring about a considerable weakening of the tested fabrics——their tensile strength decreases by 26–33%. Microbiological examination has shown that preradiation of cotton and linen fabric samples with a dose of 100 kGy does not affect the susceptibility of these fabrics to fungal biodegradation. A silk fabric irradiated under the same conditions shows clear susceptibility to bacterial biodegradation.
Stick–slip behavior of para-aramid (Twaron®) fabric in yarn pull-out
Authors: Bilisik Kadir
Published: June 2012

The aim of this study was to understand the stick–slip properties of para-aramid woven fabrics. Para-aramid Twaron CT®716 (CT716) and Twaron CT®714 (CT714) woven fabrics were used to conduct the pull-out tests. CT716 and CT714 woven fabrics have low and high fabric densities, respectively. Data generated from the single and multiple yarn pull-out tests using various lengths of CT716 and CT714 woven fabrics included fabric stick–slip force and accumulative retraction force. Stick–slip force and accumulative retraction force depend on fabric density and the number of pulled ends in the fabric. Stick–slip force and accumulative retraction force in the multiple-yarn pull-out test were higher than those of the single-yarn pull-out test. Stick–slip force and accumulative retraction force in single- and multiple-yarn pull-out tests in the dense CT716 fabric were higher than those of the loose CT714 fabric. In addition, long fabric samples showed high stick–slip force compared with that of the short fabric samples.
Metal nanoparticles decorated PET/PET-TiO2 bi-component filaments by photocatalytic deposition
Authors: Lim Sang Kyoo , Hong Seong Hui , Hwang Sung-Ho , Kim Soonhyun , Han Jae Sung , Kwon Oh Kyung
Published: June 2012

Gold, silver, and platinum nanoparticles were immobilized on the surface of TiO2 in the sheath part of bi-component filaments. The processes involved include the spinning process used to prepare polyethylene terephthalate (PET)/PET-TiO2 bi-component filaments and the photocatalytic deposition process of gold, silver and platinum nanoparticles. The core part and the sheath part consist of virgin PET and 4 wt.% of TiO2 compounded PET, respectively. The sheath: core ratio of the filament was 50:50. For the photo-deposition of metal nanoparticles, adsorption of the metal ions on the surface of the fabrics was performed by immersing them in AgNO3, HAuCl4, and H2PtCl6 aqueous solutions, with simultaneous addition of methanol as a sacrificial agent. Photo-deposition was then carried out under UV light with an irradiation time of 60 seconds. The structural and antibacterial properties of the bi-component filaments were characterized. The nano-sized noble metal particles in a polka dot form were observed around the surface of the TiO2 particles in sheath region of bi-component filaments after photocatalytic deposition. Ag, Au, and Pt metal photo-deposited fabrics showed excellent antimicrobial effect against the two types of bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae under dark conditions.
Gender Inequality and Gender Differences in Authoritarianism
Authors: Brandt Mark J. , Henry P. J.
Published: June 2012

Authoritarianism may be endorsed in part as a means of managing and buffering psychological threats (e.g., Duckitt & Fisher, 2003; Henry, 2011). Building on this research, the authors postulated that authoritarianism should be especially prevalent among women in societies with high levels of gender inequality because they especially face more psychological threats associated with stigma compared with men. After establishing that authoritarianism is, in part, a response to rejection, a psychological threat associated with stigma (Study 1), the authors used multilevel modeling to analyze data from 54 societies to find that women endorsed authoritarian values more than men, especially in individualistic societies with high levels of gender inequality (Study 2). Results show that the threats of stigma for women are not uniform across different cultures and that the degree of stigma is related to the degree of endorsement of psychologically protective attitudes such as authoritarianism.
Patriarchy, Resources, and Specialization
Authors: Shu Xiaoling , Zhu Yifei , Zhang Zhanxin
Published: June 2012

This article examines influences of patriarchal ideas and practices, relative resources, and housework specialization on three dimensions of marital decision-making power in urban China. The authors analyze mundane, child-related, and economic decisions using data from a 2000 national sample of 8,300 married urban individuals from 178 cities. Gender ideology and gendered patterns of inequality remain the most salient determinants of marital decision-making power. Specialization in housework bestows power on wives in mundane and child-related decisions and extends the existing pattern of gendered specialization in housework and breadwinning into wives’ prevalence in mundane decisions and husbands’ dominance in economic decisions. There is little support for resource theory: wives fail to use their relative income to bargain for more power. Housework, not relative income, boosts Chinese wives’ marital decision-making power in mundane and child-related decisions, indicating the absence of a “transitional equalitarian” value system and a collective rather than an individualistic orientation in marital power process.
Information histories, information geographies
Authors: Dick Archie L.
Published: June 2012

Information history, a promising new area of research, will benefit from a transnational perspective that makes it sensitive to the idea of place and that complicates issues of national information development and underdevelopment.
Domestic Cats Are Susceptible to Infection With Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza Viruses From Shorebirds
Authors: Driskell E. A. , Jones C. A. , Berghaus R. D. , Stallknecht D. E. , Howerth E. W. , Tompkins S. M.
Published: June 2012

Domestic cats are susceptible to infection with highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N1, resulting in pneumonia and in some cases, systemic spread with lesions in multiple organ systems. Recent transmission of the 2009 pandemic H1N1 influenza virus from humans to cats also resulted in severe pneumonia in cats. Data regarding the susceptibility of cats to other influenza viruses is minimal, especially regarding susceptibility to low pathogenic avian influenza viruses from wild birds, the reservoir host. In this study, the authors infected 5-month-old cats using 2 different North American shorebird avian influenza viruses (H1N9 and H6N4 subtypes), 3 cats per virus, with the goal of expanding the understanding of avian influenza virus infections in this species. These viruses replicated in inoculated cats based on virus isolation from the pharynx in 2 cats, virus isolation from the lung of 1 cat, and antigen presence in the lung via immunohistochemistry in 2 cats. There was also seroconversion and lesions of patchy bronchointerstitial pneumonia in all of the cats. Infection in the cats did not result in clinical disease and led to variable pharyngeal viral shedding with only 1 of the viruses; virus was localized in the alveolar epithelium via immunohistochemistry. These findings demonstrate the capacity of wild bird influenza viruses to infect cats, and further investigation is warranted into the pathogenesis of these viruses in cats from both a veterinary medical and public health perspective.
Amelogenesis Imperfecta and Other Biomineralization Defects in Fam20a and Fam20c Null Mice
Authors: Vogel P. , Hansen G. M. , Read R. W. , Vance R. B. , Thiel M. , Liu J. , Wronski T. J. , Smith D. D. , Jeter-Jones S. , Brommage R.
Published: June 2012

The FAM20 family of secreted proteins consists of three members (FAM20A, FAM20B, and FAM20C) recently linked to developmental disorders suggesting roles for FAM20 proteins in modulating biomineralization processes. The authors report here findings in knockout mice having null mutations affecting each of the three FAM20 proteins. Both Fam20a and Fam20c null mice survived to adulthood and showed biomineralization defects. Fam20b–/– embryos showed severe stunting and increased mortality at E13.5, although early lethality precluded detailed investigations. Physiologic calcification or biomineralization of extracellular matrices is a normal process in the development and functioning of various tissues ( eg, bones and teeth). The lesions that developed in teeth, bones, or blood vessels after functional deletion of either Fam20a or Fam20c support a significant role for their encoded proteins in modulating biomineralization processes. Severe amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) was present in both Fam20a and Fam20c null mice. In addition, Fam20a–/– mice developed disseminated calcifications of muscular arteries and intrapulmonary calcifications, similar to those of fetuin-A deficient mice, although they were normocalcemic and normophosphatemic, with normal dentin and bone. Fam20a gene expression was detected in ameloblasts, odontoblasts, and the parathyroid gland, with local and systemic effects suggesting both local and/or systemic effects for FAM20A. In contrast, Fam20c–/– mice lacked ectopic calcifications but were severely hypophosphatemic and developed notable lesions in both dentin and bone to accompany the AI. The bone and dentin lesions, plus the marked hypophosphatemia and elevated serum alkaline phosphatase and FGF23 levels, are indicative of autosomal recessive hypophosphatemic rickets/osteomalacia in Fam20c–/– mice.
Intravenous Lipid Emulsion for the Treatment of Drug Toxicity
Authors: Ozcan Mehmet S. , Weinberg Guy
Published: June 2012

Intravenous lipid emulsion (ILE) has emerged as a powerful antidote for the treatment of drug toxicity in the past decade. Initial efficacy of ILE was shown in the setting of local anesthetic systemic toxicity (LAST), but recent case reports suggest its consideration in a variety of other drug toxicities. In this review, we will summarize the experimental evidence as well as the clinical experience in using ILE as an antidote. Specifically, we will look at the evidence for using ILE in LAST as well as toxicity due to beta-blockers, calcium-channel blockers, and tricyclic antidepressants. We will also review the current dosing recommendations as well as potential side effects of ILE as an antidote.
The Power of Popularity
Authors: O’Connor Arthur J.
Published: June 2012

This pioneering study explores the convergence of social economic behavior in our new, hyperconnected world. In statistical tests, the correlation of Facebook brand page fan counts of the 30 most popular consumer brands and their respective brand company stock prices were found to be statistically significant, despite the general upward trend for fan counts and radically different stock price performances over a 12-month period. The results suggest that the social media popularity itself, as a construct for consumer following or public interest, may serve as some type of behavioral indicator of brand affinity, customer loyalty, or brand performance.
Protective effects of genistein and estradiol on PAHs-induced developmental toxicity in zebrafish embryos
Authors: Ren X , Lu F , Cui Y , Wang X , Bai C , Chen J , Huang C , Yang D
Published: June 2012

The toxicity of exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) or phytoestrogen is relatively well characterized. However, the toxicity of combined exposure to PAHs and phytoestrogen is not well investigated. In the present study, benzo(a)pyrene (B(a)P) and benzo(k)fluorathene (B(k)F), genistein, along with 17β-estradiol (E2), were investigated for their single and combined developmental toxicity using zebrafish embryos as model system. We demonstrated that two representative PAHs, both B(a)P (≥1 μM) and B(k)F (≥10 μM), can cause significant malformation and mortality in developing zebrafish embryos. The toxicity effect of B(a)P was in general higher than that of B(k)F. Developmental exposure to high level of genistein (>20 μM) or E2 (>10 μM), also caused significant malformation and mortality in zebrafish larvae at 120 hours post fertilization (hpf). However, different toxic effects were observed for the combined exposure to PAHs and phytoestrogen in zebrafish. Lower doses of genistein (1 and 10 μM) and E2 (0.1 and 1 μM), when used in combination with high concentration of B(a)P (1 μM) or B(k)F (20 μM), can significantly suppress the toxicity effect of B(a)P and B(k)F in developing zebrafish embryos. The beneficial effect of genistein may be due to the inhibition of cytochrome P450 enzymes via directly interacting with aryl-hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) pathway, or disturbing the AhR pathway through interacting with estrogen receptor pathway.
The School Nurse Role in Preparing for Sudden Cardiac Arrest in the School Setting
Authors: Evans Warna K. , Ficca Michelle
Published: June 2012

Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) were introduced for first responders in 1992 to manage adult cardiac arrest and are now common in many public places. Today AEDs are capable of shocking children under 8 years of age, or less than 55 pounds. This presents a challenge for school nurses, particularly as the prevalence of chronic medical conditions of school children continues to increase. Preparing for a cardiac emergency for a person of any age is stressful and requires a coordinated approach to best manage sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). The school nurse’s responsibility is to assess the school setting and the need for an AED, and when indicated, determine the best AED guidelines in schools that accommodate people of all ages.
Association of Thrombomodulin Gene Polymorphisms and Plasma Thrombomodulin Levels With Acute Myocardial Infarction in North Indian Patients
Authors: Dogra Rupinder , Das Reena , Ahluwalia Jasmina , Kumar Rohit Manoj , Talwar K. K.
Published: June 2012

This is the first study from north India that investigated the association of thrombomodulin (TM) polymorphisms with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in 350 patients (≤ 40 years, n = 184 and ≥ 60 years, n = 166) and 350 matched-controls. The TM polymorphisms were determined by polymerase chain reaction–single-stranded conformational polymorphism and DNA sequencing. The TM 1418TT genotype (odds ratio [OR] 2.8; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.3-6.4; P = .012) was independent risk predictor of young AMI as were hypertension (OR 3.3; 95% CI 1.8-5.9; P < .001), diabetes mellitus (OR 14.3; 95% CI 2.9-44.6; P = .001), smoking (OR 13.8; 95% CI 7.7-24.7; P < .001), family history (OR 1.8; 95% CI 1.1-3.3; P = .045), high body mass index (OR 2.2; 95% CI 1.3-3.6; P = .002), and high waist–hip ratio (OR 4.1; 95% CI 2.4-7.1; P < .001). Mean plasma TM also showed association with young AMI ( P < .001). Smoking carriers of TM 1418CT + TT genotype had significantly higher risk of AMI (OR 12.8; 95% CI 6.0-27.3; P < .001) when compared with nonsmoking noncarriers. In conclusion, TM 1418C/T polymorphism is independent predictor of AMI and synergies with smoking.
Dermatophytosis and papular eosinophilic/mastocytic dermatitis (urticaria pigmentosa-like dermatitis) in three Devon Rex cats
Authors: Colombo Silvia , Scarampella Fabia , Ordeix Laura , Roccabianca Paola
Published: June 2012

Presenting signs: Three Devon Rex cats were presented with multiple erythematous papules, occasionally associated with crusting and hyperpigmentation, with a linear distribution on the head, neck, chest and abdomen. One cat also had multifocal alopecia with hyperpigmentation on the dorsum.

Diagnosis and treatment: Clinical and histopathological features were suggestive of papular eosinophilic/mastocytic dermatitis (urticaria pigmentosa-like dermatitis). In all cases, dermatophytosis was diagnosed: in cases 1 and 2 there was histopathological evidence of dermatophytosis, while fungal culture was positive for Microsporum canis in cases 2 and 3. In all cats, lesions disappeared following antifungal treatment.

Clinical significance: Papular eosinophilic/mastocytic dermatitis in Devon Rex cats may represent either an atypical presentation of dermatophytosis or a clinical and histological reaction pattern to various diseases, including dermatophytosis and allergic diseases. Clinical differentiation is crucial as there are important implications regarding treatment and, in particular, the use of glucocorticoids, which are contraindicated in cases of dermatophytosis.
Arterial Thromboembolism
Authors: Fuentes Virginia Luis
Published: June 2012

Practical relevance: Feline arterial thromboembolism (ATE) is a common but devastating complication of myocardial disease, often necessitating euthanasia. A combination of endothelial dysfunction and blood stasis in the left atrium leads to local platelet activation and thrombus formation. Embolisation of the thrombus results in severe ischaemia of the affected vascular bed. With the classic ‘saddle thrombus’ presentation of thrombus in the terminal aorta, the diagnosis can usually be made by physical examination. The prognosis is poor for cats with multiple limbs affected by severe ischaemia, but much better where only one limb is affected or motor function is present.

Patient group: Cats with left atrial enlargement secondary to cardiomyopathy are typically predisposed, although cats with hyperthyroidism, pulmonary neoplasia and supravalvular mitral stenosis may also be at risk.

Management: Analgesia is the main priority, and severe pain should be managed with methadone or a fentanyl constant rate infusion. Congestive heart failure (CHF) requires treatment with furosemide, but tachypnoea due to pain can mimic signs of CHF. Thrombolytic therapy is not recommended, but antithrombotic treatment should be started as soon as possible. Aspirin and clopidogrel are well tolerated.

Evidence base: Several observational studies of ATE have been reported. No randomised, blinded, controlled studies have been reported in cats at risk, for either treatment or prevention of ATE, although such a study comparing aspirin and clopidogrel in cats is currently under way.
Feline Eosinophilic Granuloma Complex(ITIES)
Authors: Buckley Laura , Nuttall Tim
Published: June 2012

Practical relevance: The feline eosinophilic granuloma complex (EGC) comprises a group of clinically well recognised but poorly understood dermatoses that are common in cats. In many cases, lesions are severe and can be accompanied by varying degrees of (and sometimes considerable) pruritus and/or pain. In addition, lesions can be chronic and recurrent. It is, therefore, important to achieve a prompt and accurate diagnosis in order to provide optimal, often life-long, treatment for affected cats.

Patient group: There is no age predisposition or well documented breed predilection for the development of EGC lesions in cats. Some studies have reported a possible female predisposition, but this has not been consistently documented.

Clinical challenges: The clinical diagnosis of EGC lesions is usually straightforward, but investigation of the potential underlying aetiology can pose a challenge for the clinician. Information on the indication for various diagnostic tests and their interpretation is lacking, and the tendency for these cases to be managed with chronic medical intervention prior to achieving a definitive diagnosis can further complicate the interpretation of any diagnostic investigation. In addition, successful therapeutic management of these cases can be challenging. Some cats suffer only a single episode of disease that resolves with treatment, while others have recurrent lesions and some of these can be refractory to treatment. The individual variation in both the clinical nature of the disease and the response to therapy could be related to disease severity, but could also be explained by differences in the underlying aetiopathogenesis.

Evidence base: This article reviews the published literature to discuss the complex aetiology of the EGC and present an overview of the different clinical presentations and diagnosis. A further and particular aim has been to provide some evidence-based recommendations for the management of this unusual group of dermatoses.
Advanced Imaging
Authors: Lamb Christopher R , David Frédéric H
Published: June 2012

Summary: The primary purpose of diagnostic imaging is to enable clinicians to make correct decisions about a patient’s diagnosis and severity of its condition and, thereby, to contribute to effective and efficient treatment. Advanced imaging modalities are inherently better detectors of morphological lesions than radiography; hence, they offer the possibility of more accurate diagnosis and staging, with correspondingly better patient outcomes. However, there is a lack of evidence that better outcomes are being realised for veterinary patients. Furthermore, increased use of advanced imaging carries the possibility of increased misuse, primarily through unnecessary studies that contribute little to patient management other than increased costs.

Scope: This article is intended to be relevant to all veterinary species. Advanced imaging of cats is not sufficiently developed as a specific discipline that a balanced review could be based purely on feline examples or references.
Towards co-constructed coaching: Exploring the integration of coaching and co-constructed autoethnography in leadership development
Authors: Kempster Steve , Iszatt-White Marian
Published: June 2012

This article introduces a new method for leadership development: co-constructed coaching. The terrain of executive coaching is outlined and contrasted with co-constructed coaching that draws on the research method of co-constructed autoethnography. In particular the relative merits of directive versus non-directive leadership development interventions are examined, along with the issue of multiple agendas in coaching/research relationships in this context, and the implications, both positive and negative, of having a highly informed active partner in the leadership learning process. The paper makes a contribution to management learning by presenting co-constructed coaching as a credible and potentially beneficial alternative to executive coaching by enabling a critically reflexive dialogue.
The Doing It Debate: Sexual pedagogy and the disciplining of the child/adult boundary
Authors: Mellor David
Published: June 2012

This article explores how the life course boundary between children/adults is constructed and disciplined in terms of gendered sexuality and sexual pedagogy. Using the debate surrounding the publication of the novel Doing It by Melvin Burgess, I examine the cultural field of literature for young people (sometimes referred to as the ‘young adult’ or YA market), seeing this field as a variety of sites where sexual learning occurs and where the boundaries between adulthood and childhood are governed and contested. Looking at reviews by adults and young people, and the re-branding of the book under an adult imprint, I explore how hetero-gendered transitions between childhood, teenage and adult are constructed within discussions of what and where young people should learn about sexuality. I suggest that throughout the Doing It debate an essentialized ‘male mind’ is assembled through claims to social realism, morality, and shared identity that are founded in a particular classed, raced, and heterosexualized, ‘hegemonic masculinity’ ( Connell 2005 ). I conclude with a discussion of the possibilities and limitations of using literature in a liberal sexuality education.
Simulation of a multibody occupant model during vehicle collision with different applications of vehicle control systems
Authors: Elkady Mustafa , Elmarakbi Ahmed , Crolla Dave
Published: June 2012

The aim of this research is to apply vehicle dynamics control systems to mitigate the vehicle collision and study the effects of these systems on the kinematic behaviour of the vehicle’s occupant. An unique three-degree-of-freedom vehicle dynamics/crash mathematical model and a simplified lumped mass occupant model are developed. The first model is used to define the vehicle body crash parameters and it integrates a vehicle dynamics model with a vehicle front-end structure model. In this model, the anti-lock braking system and active suspension control system are co-simulated, and its associated equations of motion are developed. The second model aims to predict the effect of vehicle dynamics control systems on the kinematics of the occupant. The Lagrange’s equations are used to solve that model due to the complexity of the obtained equations of motion. It is shown from the numerical simulations that the vehicle dynamics/crash response and occupant behaviour can be captured and analysed quickly and accurately. Furthermore, it is shown that the vehicle dynamics control systems can affect the crash characteristics positively and the occupant behaviour is improved.