bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surgical Reduction of Ileal Impactions in the Horse: 28 Cases
Authors: HANSON R. REID , WRIGHT JAMES C. , SCHUMACHER JOHN , BAIRD A.N. , HUMBURG JAY , PUGH D.G.
Published: February 2008

Objective—To evaluate the seasonal influence, signalment, type of hay consumed, clinical examination findings, and outcome after surgery for horses with ileal impaction.

Study Design—A retrospective study.

Results—Between 1988 and 1993, 28 horses had surgical correction of ileal impaction. There was a significantly higher rate of ileal impaction during the Fall (September‐November,P= .0041). Mean duration of clinical signs of abdominal pain before referral was 15 hours. Transrectal palpation was used to localize the impaction in 11 horses. The ileal impaction was reduced by extraluminal massage aided by admixing of intestinal fluid oral to the impaction or injection of fluids intraluminally and then movement of the ingesta into the cecum alone in 24 horses. A total of 26 horses recovered from surgery; 24 horses were discharged from the hospital and eventually returned to previous use. Two horses had fatal postoperative complications: jejunocec‐ostomy dehiscence and development of extensive small intestine adhesions after manual reduction of the impaction. One horse initially treated by manual reduction required jejunocecostomy twice for management of recurrent ileal impaction. Follow‐up information was obtained for 21 horses, of which 20 were alive 1 year or longer after surgery. A total of 27 of 28 horses were fed Coastal Bermudagrass hay as the primary type of hay consumed. A total of 9 horses continued to be fed Coastal Bermudagrass hay as the only roughage source, whereas 6 horses were fed Coastal Bermudagrass with at least 50% other hay, and in 6 horses, Coastal Bermudagrass hay was entirely eliminated from the diet.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Ileal impactions can be successfully reduced by celiotomy and extraluminal massage and injection techniques to soften the ingesta for passage into the cecum without enterotomy or bypass techniques in most horses. Changes in weather and feeding practices in the Fall may account for an increased risk of ileal impaction in horses in the southeastern United States at that time of year.
Oxytocin Content of the Cerebrospinal Fluid of Dogs and Its Relationship to Pain Induced by Spinal Cord Compression
Authors: DVM DOROTHY CIMINO BROWN , VMD SANDRA PERKOWSKI
Published: February 2008

Objectives—To determine whether oxytocin exists in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of dogs and whether the amount of oxytocin in the CSF of dogs with neck or back pain caused by spinal cord compression is significantly different than that in the CSF of clinically normal dogs.

Study Design—Prospective controlled study.

Animal Population—A total of 15 purpose‐bred beagles and 17 client‐owned dogs.

Methods—CSF was collected by needle puncture of the cerebellar medullary cistern after induction of general anesthesia. Oxytocin levels within the samples were determined through radioimmunoassay.

Results—Dogs with spinal cord compression had significantly more oxytocin in their CSF than the clinically normal dogs (13.76 ± 2.0 pg/mL and 3.61 ± 0.63 pg/mL, respectively; P < .0001). Dogs with chronic signs (>7 days) had significantly more oxytocin in their CSF than dogs with acute signs (<7 days) (21.60 ± 0.86 pg/mL and 6.80 ± 0.81 pg/mL, respectively; P < .0001). Both acutely and chronically affected dogs had significantly more oxytocin in their CSF than the controls (P < .005 and P < .0001 respectively).

Conclusions—Dogs with neck and back pain caused by spinal cord compression have significantly more oxytocin in their CSF than clinically normal dogs. Dogs with chronic clinical signs have significantly more oxytocin in their CSF than dogs with acute clinical signs.

Clinical Relevance—In humans, intrathecal injection of oxytocin is effective in treating low back pain for up to 5 hours. Intrathecal oxytocin may be a logical choice for perioperative analgesia in dogs undergoing myelography because the intrathecal space is accessed for injection of contrast agent.
Percutaneous Closure of Perivalvular Mitral Regurgitation with an Amplatzer Occluder Device in a Patient with Both Prosthetic Mitral and Aortic Valves
Authors: LASORDA DAVID M. , MOHSIN JAMIL C.
Published: February 2008

Percutaneous mitral valve closure is a novel technique in evolution as an alternative therapy for nonsurgical candidates with significant mitral regurgitation. Current use has been limited to patients with single prosthetic valves and discrete perivalvular defects. We describe a case of successful percutaneous repair of a mitral perivalvular leak with an Amplatzer ductal occluder in a patient with both prosthetic mitral and aortic valves. In this case, a left ventricle apical approach for access was utilized.
Fabrication of Metallodielectric Photonic Crystals with a Diamond Structure and their Microwave Properties
Authors: Wang Wen , Kirihara Soshu , Miyamoto Yoshinari , Jin Zhihao
Published: February 2008

Three‐dimensional (3D) metallodielectric photonic crystals with a diamond structure were fabricated in order to investigate the formation of stop bands and the absorption ability for microwaves with the dielectric absorbing media embedded into the 3D metal lattice. First, the metallic photonic crystals were prepared by filling the epoxy molds formed by stereolithography with a metal alloy having a low melting point of 70°C, followed by removal of the molds. The metallodielectric photonic crystals were then fabricated by infiltrating the porous metal crystal with a SiC/polyester mixture. The lattice constant of photonic crystals was 15 mm. The effects of different aspect ratios of diamond lattice rods, number of metallic lattice units along Γ‐L 〈1 1 1〉, Γ‐X 〈1 0 0〉, and Γ‐K 〈1 1 0〉 directions, and metallodielectric samples along the Γ‐X 〈1 0 0〉 direction on the formation of stop band and microwave absorption ability were investigated in the frequency range from 3 to 30 GHz. Metallodielectric photonic crystals formed showed good absorption ability. The measured transmission spectra of the metallic and metallodielectric crystals agreed well with the simulation of the transmission line modeling method.
The Effects of an Institutional Care Map on the Admission Rates and Medical Costs in Women with Acute Pyelonephritis
Authors: Kim Kyuseok , Lee Christopher C. , Rhee Joong Eui , Suh Gil Joon , Lee Hwi‐Jae , Kim Hong Bin , Singer Adam J.
Published: February 2008

Objectives:  There are no disposition guidelines for the management of acute pyelonephritis (APN) in women. Recent studies have demonstrated considerable variation in admission rates for women with APN. The authors evaluated the effect of a predetermined, written protocol for the management of APN on the admission rates and medical costs in adult women with APN.

Methods:  From January 2006 to December 2006, women presenting to an emergency department (ED) with APN (the after group) were prospectively enrolled. Patients were managed using a predetermined, written protocol that included intravenous ciprofloxacin, antipyretics, antiemetics, and hydration. After a 6‐hour observation, patients were reevaluated and discharged on oral medications if they met predefined discharge criteria. Data from all APN patients who presented from May 2003 to December 2005 (before the written protocol was adopted) were also collected for comparative analysis (the before group). These two groups were compared in terms of admission rates, rates of revisits to the ED within 7 days, ultimate admission rate, and medical costs incurred. Mean costs of admission and outpatient‐based APN management were determined by analyzing the hospital cost database of the before group.

Results:  There were 388 and 139 patients in the before and after groups, respectively. The initial admission rate of the after group was significantly lower than that of the before group (15.1% vs. 47.7%, p < 0.01). However, no significant difference was observed between the two groups with respect to ED revisit rates after initial discharge (11.9% vs. 15.1%, p = 0.38). For initially discharged patients, 8.5% of the before group and 5.8% of the after group were later admitted, which was not significantly different (p = 0.42). Mean direct medical costs (in U.S. dollars) for initially hospitalized and discharged patients in the before group were $1,520 and $263 (p < 0.001). With the price rise during the study period, it was not reasonable to sum and calculate the mean cost with all before and after protocol costs.

Conclusions:  Use of a standardized written protocol reduced the admission rates and medical costs in women presenting to the ED with APN.
Fixed drug eruption:state of the art
Authors: Özkaya Esen
Published: February 2008

Fixed drug eruption (FDE) is a common type of cutaneous adverse drug reaction.There may be a genetic background as significant associations have been identified between HLA types and specific FDE.Systemic provocation is still the gold standard for establishing the offending agent in FDE,but topical provocation testing offers a promising alternative approach. A standardized method does not exist, and the approach must likely be varied for different agents. The mystery of site preference in FDE is still unresolved. Possible explanations include properties of the drug, trauma and viscerocutaneous reflex patterns.
Endosomal proteolysis of diphtheria toxin without toxin translocation into the cytosol of rat liver in vivo
Authors: El Hage Tatiana , Decottignies Paulette , Authier François
Published: February 2008

A detailed proteolysis study of internalized diphtheria toxin (DT) within rat liver endosomes was undertaken to determine whether DT‐resistant species exhibit defects in toxin endocytosis, toxin activation by cellular enzymes or toxin translocation to its cytosolic target. Following administration of a saturating dose of wild‐type DT or nontoxic mutant DT (mDT) to rats, rapid endocytosis of the intact 62‐kDa toxin was observed coincident with the endosomal association of DT‐A (low association) and DT‐B (high association) subunits. Assessment of the subsequent post‐endosomal fate of internalized mDT revealed a sustained endo‐lysosomal transfer of the mDT‐B subunit accompanied by a net decrease in intact mDT and mDT‐A subunit throughout the endo‐lysosomal apparatus. In vitro proteolysis of DT, using an endosomal lysate, was observed at both neutral and acidic pH, with the subsequent generation of DT‐A and DT‐B subunits (pH 7) or DT fragments with low ADP‐ribosyltransferase activity (pH 4). Biochemical characterization revealed that the neutral endosomal DT‐degrading activity was due to a novel luminal 70‐kDa furin enzyme, whereas the aspartic acid protease cathepsin D (EC 3.4.23.5) was identified as being responsible for toxin degradation at acidic pH. Moreover, an absence of in vivo association of the DT‐A subunit with cytosolic fractions was identified, as well as an absence of in vitro translocation of the DT‐A subunit from cell‐free endosomes into the external milieu. Based on these findings, we propose that, in rat, resistance to DT may originate from two different mechanisms: the ability of free DT‐A subunits to be rapidly proteolyzed by acidic cathepsin D within the endosomal lumen, and/or the absence of DT translocation across the endosomal membrane, which may arise from the absence of a functional cytosolic translocation factor previously reported to participate in the export of DT from human endosomes.
Chronic Dietaryl‐Arginine Down‐Regulates Adenosine Receptor and Nitric Oxide Synthase Expression in Rat Heart
Authors: Rose'Meyer Roselyn B. , Harrison Glenn J. , Fenning Andrew , Jenner Tamsin L. , Brown Lindsay
Published: February 2008

Abstract: l‐Arginine increases myocardial nitric oxide production. Nitric oxide mediates many of the cardiovascular actions of adenosine and modulates adenosine metabolism. In this study, we examined the effect of chronicl‐arginine (5%) intake on cardiac nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and adenosine receptor expression and cardiac function in rat Langendorff‐isolated perfused hearts. Our results show that 4‐week chronicl‐arginine ingestion increases the weight of rat hearts by 17.6% (P < 0.05).l‐Arginine treatment decreased the expression of all the cardiac adenosine receptors, with reductions in adenosine A1(20‐fold), A2A(7.7‐fold), A2B(76‐fold) and A3(25.6‐fold) mRNA (P < 0.05). NOS expression was variably affected with no change in the expression of NOS1and 4.2‐fold down‐regulation of NOS3expression with chronicl‐arginine treatment (P < 0.05). NOS2was expressed in control tissues; however, inl‐arginine‐treated hearts the amount of NOS2mRNA was reduced to non‐detectable levels. Following chronicl‐arginine treatment, an increase in coronary perfusion pressure was observed (P < 0.05). Purine efflux was used as an indicator of metabolic efficiency.l‐Arginine did not alter catecholamine‐induced purine efflux (P > 0.05); however, noradrenaline‐mediated increases in contractility and myocardial oxygen consumption were reduced. Vasodilator responses to 5′‐N‐ethylcarboxamidoadenosine (NECA) were reduced in hearts froml‐arginine‐treated rats and the NOS inhibitor Nϖ‐nitro‐l‐arginine methyl ester (3 µM) did not inhibit responses to NECA. In conclusion, 4‐week dietary supplementation ofl‐arginine reduced the expression of cardiac adenosine receptors and NOSs with a subsequent decrease in noradrenaline‐stimulated cardiac function and adenosine receptor‐mediated coronary vasodilation.
Association of vitamin D receptor polymorphisms with the outcome of allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Bogunia‐Kubik K. , Middleton P. , Norden J. , Dickinson A. , Lange A.
Published: February 2008

Recently, vitamin D receptor (VDR) polymorphism has been identified as an additional genetic factor associated with the outcome after allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) from HLA‐matched sibling donors. In the present study, VDR ApaI, TaqI and FokI alleles were typed using single strand conformation polymorphism in 123 Polish recipients and their sibling or alternative donors to test the associations of VDR polymorphisms with HSCT outcome. Four VDR genotypes were identified as risk factors of acute graft‐versus‐host disease (aGVHD). Donor ApaI AA (OR = 7.245, P = 0.009), source of HSC (OR = 7.001, P = 0.007), transplantation from an alternative donor (OR = 6.630, P = 0.007) and donor FokI FF (OR = 4.473, P = 0.025) significantly contributed to the development of grades II–IV aGVHD, while recipient ApaI aa (OR = 3.233, P = 0.069), recipient FokI FF (OR = 2.558, P = 0.077) and female to male transplants (OR = 2.955, P = 0.099) were found to be less significant factors. In addition, the presence of ApaI aa genotype in the recipient was found to be associated with increased likelihood of death (P = 0.0228). The present study contributes to the studies demonstrating a role of VDR polymorphisms in HSCT outcome. In addition to previously described correlations of ApaI a allele and occurrence of severe grades III–IV aGVHD and (linked with ApaI aa) recipient TaqI TT genotype with aGVHD, the novel associations of recipient and donor FokI FF genotype and the increased aGVHD risk and recipient ApaI aa with survival were identified.
Effect of a partially purified 30.1 kDa ovine follicular fluid protein on ovine follicle and ovarian somatic cell growth, and oocyte maturation in vitro
Authors: Nandi S. , Girish Kumar V.
Published: February 2008

Aim:  Regulation of folliculogenesis and oocyte–somatic cell interactions in the ovarian follicles is under the control of gonadotrophins and various local factors. In the present study, an attempt was made to isolate and examine the biological activities of ovarian follicular fluid protein(s) in sheep in vitro.

Methods:  Follicular fluids aspirated from ovarian follicles of slaughterhouse‐derived ovaries were made cell free by centrifugation (5000 g for 30 min) and steroid free by charcoal treatment. The follicular fluid was then subjected to ammonium sulphate precipitation and gel filtration chromatography using G‐75 Sephadex. Protein detection was performed using a UV spectrophotometer at 280 nm. The 35–50% fraction yielded a detectable peak and a protein of 30.1 kDa as examined by SDS‐PAGE. The effect of increasing doses of the 30.1 kDa ovine follicular fluid protein (oFFP) was tested at different doses on pre‐antral and antral follicle growth; cumulus cell expansion; oocyte maturation; changes in protein, calcium and phosphorus levels of oocytes after culture in media containing different levels of isolated protein; mural granulosa cell, polar granulosa cell (cumulus cell), oviductal epithelial cell monolayer formation and granulosa cell proliferation in vitro.

Results:  The oFFP significantly inhibited antral follicle growth, cumulus expansion, oocyte maturation and somatic cell growth in vitro in a dose‐dependent manner. The oFFP did not have a significant effect on the pre‐antral follicle growth in vitro. The protein, calcium and phosphorus contents of oocytes were found to decrease in oocytes cultured in maturation medium containing the oFFP.

Conclusion:  The present study demonstrates a follicular fluid factor regulating folliculogenesis and oocyte maturation in sheep.
State–Trait Returns! And One Practitioner’s Request
Authors: Vosburgh Richard M.
Published: February 2008

The article by Macey and Schneider (2008) brings me nostalgically back to 1975–1979 and my graduate program at the University of South Florida. In the Industrial-Organizational (I-O) program, Dr. Herb Meyer was reminding us of “split roles in performance appraisal,” and in the Clinical program, Dr. Charlie Spielberger was gaining fame on his state–trait anxiety research—propelling him to president of the American Psychological Association in 1991. The logic of “state–trait” was compelling then and has withstood the test of time. It is surprising that it has taken this long to apply state–trait logic to other important measurements. As a practitioner who is soon to hire 12,000 new employees under one roof to open CityCenter in Las Vegas (2009), it is my hope that we can move beyond concept to selection tools that can help organizations create engaged cultures.
Engaged in Engagement: We Are Delighted We Did It
Authors: Macey William H. , Schneider Benjamin
Published: February 2008

We emphasize that science and practice issues are equally salient when pursuing thinking and research on employee engagement. We agree with much of what the commentaries have to say, especially that organizational competitive advantage is the relevant focus of engagement research and practice and that engagement is not a new construct but one that required clarification vis-a-vis existing constructs. We also agree that state engagement can be highly variable, that disengagement needs study, that negative situations can induce engagement behaviors, that engagement surveys should yield actionable data, and that people can be hired who are more likely to be engaged. We disagree with the idea that all employee attitudes are essentially equal and that existing conceptualizations of performance make engagement behavior a nonuseful construct.
Substance P depolarizes striatal projection neurons and facilitates their glutamatergic inputs
Authors: Blomeley Craig , Bracci Enrico
Published: February 2008

The striatum is the main basal ganglia input nucleus, receiving extensive glutamatergic inputs from cortex and thalamus. Medium spiny striatal projection neurons (MSNs) are GABAergic, and their axon collaterals synapse on other MSNs. Approximately 50% of MSNs corelease substance P (SP), but how this neurotransmitter controls MSN activity is poorly understood. We used whole‐cell recordings to investigate how SP affects MSNs and their glutamatergic inputs. SP elicited slow depolarizations in 47/90 MSNs, which persisted in the presence of tetrodotoxin (TTX). SP responses were mimicked by the NK1 receptor agonist [Sar9,Met(O2)11]‐substance P (SSP), and fully blocked by the NK1 receptor antagonists L‐732,138, or extracellular zinc. When intracellular chloride was altered, the polarity of SP responses depended on the sign of the chloride driving force. In voltage‐clamp, SP‐induced currents reversed around −68 mV and displayed marked inward rectification. These data indicate that SP increased a ClC‐2‐type chloride conductance in MSNs, acting through NK1 receptors. SP also strongly increased glutamatergic responses in 49/89 MSNs. Facilitation of glutamatergic responses (which was observed both in MSNs directly affected by SP and in non‐affected ones) was reduced by application of L‐732,138, and fully blocked by coapplication of L‐732,138 and SB222200 (an NK3 receptor antagonists), showing that both NK1 and NK3 receptors were involved. SP‐induced facilitation of glutamatergic responses was accompanied by a marked decrease in paired‐pulse ratio, indicating a presynaptic mechanism of action. These data provide an electrophysiological correlate for the anatomically known connections between SP‐positive MSN terminals and the dendrites and somata of other MSNs.
Heart rate-based lactate minimum test: a reproducible method
Authors: Strupler M , Mueller G , Perret C
Published: February 2008

Objective:

To find the individual intensity for aerobic endurance training, the lactate minimum test (LMT) seems to be a promising method. LMTs described in the literature consist of speed or work rate-based protocols, but for training prescription in daily practice mostly heart rate is used. The aim of the present study was to investigate the reproducibility of a new heart rate-based LMT protocol.

Design:

20 subjects each underwent four LMTs on a cycle ergometer. The LMT consisted of a first part (Conconi test) to induce lactate accumulation and a second part (incremental protocol) with stages of 5 min starting beyond the aerobic threshold. During these stages work rate was adjusted to reach predetermined heart rates, which were calculated for every single test from heart rate (HR) at rest and maximum HR. Lactate was measured after each stage to define the lactate minimum (LM) and the corresponding HR.

Setting:

Institute of Sports Medicine.

Participants:

20 healthy and endurance-trained individuals (13 men, seven women).

Main outcome measures:

Reproducibility of heart rate at LM.

Results:

The reproducibility of heart rate at LM was high (coefficient of variation (CV) = 2.1%). The reproducibility of work rate at LM was good (CV = 6.7%). CV for lactate concentrations at LM was 17.4%. High interindividual differences at LM were found in heart rate (range 149–178 beats/min) and lactate levels (range 1.2–6.8 mmol/l).

Conclusion:

The LMT using a heart rate-based protocol is a reproducible method of assessing HR at an exercise intensity where an equilibrium exists between blood lactate accumulation and elimination.
Effects of an automated stride assistance system on walking parameters and muscular glucose metabolism in elderly adults
Authors: Shimada H , Suzuki T , Kimura Y , Hirata T , Sugiura M , Endo Y , Yasuhara K , Shimada K , Kikuchi K , Oda K , Ishii K , Ishiwata K
Published: February 2008

Objective:

To identify the effects of an automated stride assistance system (SAS) on walking scores and muscle activities in the lower extremities of elderly people.

Methods:

Seven healthy elderly men (73–81 years) participated in this study. Subjects walked continuously at a constant speed for 50 min on a treadmill with and without the SAS, which is a device to control the walk ratio (step length/cadence) and to add support power to the thigh during walking. A step counter equipped with an infrared device was used to record walking data. The average speeds during treadmill walking were 2.89–3.82 km/h without the SAS and 3.03–4.03 km/h with the SAS. Positron emission tomography (PET) and [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) evaluation of glucose metabolism were conducted on each subject twice after walking with and without the SAS.

Results:

Walk ratio, walking speed and step length were significantly improved in all subjects by the SAS, while cadence was significantly decreased by the SAS in all subjects except one. The SAS did not have a significant effect on glucose metabolism of the muscles of the lower extremities. There were no significant correlations between change in walking speed and change in glucose metabolism in each muscle without the SAS and with the SAS. In contrast, significant correlations between walking speed and glucose metabolism were shown in gluteus minimus (r = −0.929), hip-related muscles (r = −0.862), soleus (r = −0.907), and medial gastrocnemius (r = −0.952) without the SAS. With the SAS, there were significant correlations in gluteus medius (r = −0.899), hip-related muscles (r = −0.819), and medial gastrocnemius (r = −0.817) in the elderly subjects.

Conclusions:

The SAS increases walking scores in elderly people without increasing energy consumption of lower-extremity muscles. The elderly subjects with low walking speed showed higher glucose metabolism in hip-related muscles and triceps surae. Thus, this association suggested that decreased walking speed in elderly adults has a higher metabolic cost in these muscle regions.
Circulating substance P levels and shoulder joint contracture after arthroscopic repair of the rotator cuff: Table 1
Authors: Franceschi F , Longo U G , Ruzzini L , Morini S , Battistoni F , Dicuonzo G , Maffulli N , Denaro V
Published: February 2008

Objective:

To determine the plasma levels of substance P (SP) in patients with postoperative stiffness after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

Design:

Plasma samples were obtained at 15 months from surgery from two groups of patients who underwent arthroscopic repair of a rotator cuff tear. In group 1, 30 subjects (14 men, 16 women; mean age 64.6 years, range 47 to 78) with shoulder stiffness 15 months after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair were recruited. In group 2, 30 patients (11 men, 19 women; mean age 57.8 years, range 45 to 77) were evaluated 15 months after successful arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Immunoassays were performed with commercially available assay kits to measure the plasma levels of SP.

Results:

Plasma levels of SP in patients with postoperative stiffness were significantly greater than those in the control group (mean 81.06 (SD 27.76) versus 23.49 (5.64), p<0.05).

Conclusions:

The plasma concentrations of substance P in patients with shoulder stiffness after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair are higher compared with plasma levels of SP in patients with a good postoperative outcome. The neuronal upregulation of SP shown in the plasma of patients with postoperative shoulder stiffness may underlie not only the symptoms but also its development of adhesive capsulitis.
The effect of exercise on motor performance tasks used in the neurological assessment of sports-related concussion
Authors: Schneiders A G , Sullivan S J , McCrory P R , Gray A , Maruthayanar S , Singh P , Ranhotigammage P , Van der Salm R
Published: February 2008

Sports-related concussion is assessed using both cognitive and motor performance tasks. There is limited understanding of how exercise affects these measures. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of moderate-intensity exercise on three selected measures of motor performance.

A repeated measures design was used to compare baseline motor performance scores with post-exercise scores with an exercise intervention modelled on the physiological demands of a team sport. 30 physically active subjects performed timed motor performance tasks: Finger-to-Nose (FTN), Tandem Gait (TG) and Single Leg Stance (SLS). The tasks were administered twice pre-exercise and twice post-exercise.

FTN, TG and SLS demonstrated high test–retest reliability (ICC values >0.8). 15 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise caused a significant improvement in FTN (T2 = 2.66 (SD 0.38), T3 = 2.49 (0.32); p<0.001) and TG (T2 = 13.08 (2.84), T3 = 12.23 (2.22); p = 0.001), but not in SLS (T2 = 5.94 (4.99), T3 = 5.91 (5.54); p = 0.507).

Improvement in the performance of motor tasks after exercise has implications for the immediate assessment of sports-related concussion, given that measures of motor performance are utilised in concussion assessment instruments.
Preventive effect of pre-dive hydration on bubble formation in divers
Authors: Gempp E , Blatteau J E , Pontier J-M , Balestra C , Louge P
Published: February 2008

Objective:

To investigate whether prehydration 90 min before a dive could decrease bubble formation, and to evaluate the consequent adjustments in plasma volume (PV), water balance and plasma surface tension (ST).

Methods:

Eight military divers participated in a crossover trial of pre-dive hydration using saline–glucose beverage (protocol 1) and a control dive with no prehydration (protocol 2). Drink volume was 1300 ml (osmolality 324 mOsm/l) and drinking time was 50–60 min. The diving protocol consisted of an open sea field air dive at 30 msw depth for 30 min followed by a 9 min stop at 3 msw. Haemodynamic parameters, body weight measurements, urine volume and blood samples were taken before/after fluid intake and after the dive. Decompression bubbles were examined by a precordial pulsed Doppler.

Results:

Bubble activity was significantly lower for protocol 1 than for protocol 2. PV increased after fluid ingestion by 3.5% and returned toward baseline after diving for protocol 1, whereas it decreased by 2.2% after diving for protocol 2. Differences in post-dive PV between the two conditions were highly significant. Body weight loss before/after diving and post-dive urine volume after diving were significant in both protocols, but the relative decline in weight remained lower for protocol 1 than for protocol 2, with reduction of negative water balance due to higher fluid retention. There were no differences in ST after fluid intake and after diving for the two protocols.

Conclusion:

Pre-dive oral hydration decreases circulatory bubbles, thus offering a relatively easy means of reducing decompression sickness risk. The prehydration condition allowed attenuation of dehydration and prevention of hypovolaemia induced by the diving session. Hydration and diving did not change plasma surface tension in this study.
The prediction of maximal oxygen uptake from submaximal ratings of perceived exertion elicited during the multistage fitness test
Authors: Davies R C , Rowlands A V , Eston R G
Published: February 2008

The purpose of this study was to assess whether maximal oxygen uptake (V.O2max) could be predicted from submaximal ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) elicited during the multistage fitness test (MFT). Eleven female volunteers completed three maximal exercise tests in random order; the MFT, a simulated MFT on a motorised treadmill and a graded exercise test to volitional exhaustion (GXT), also on a motorised treadmill. RPE values were recorded at the end of each 1 min stage in all three tests. Oxygen consumption (VO2) was recorded continuously during the treadmill tests. Measured V.O2maxvalues from the GXT and simulated MFT were not significantly different (48.2 and 47.5 ml/kg/min, respectively), but they were significantly higher than V.O2maxvalues predicted by the MFT (41.2 ml/kg/min, p<0.05). Regression of submaximal RPE values (7–17) elicited from the MFT and VO2values predicted by the MFT were extrapolated to RPE 20 to predict V.O2max. The RPE-predicted V.O2maxfrom the MFT (47.5 ml/kg/min) was similar to measured V.O2max. The findings suggest that submaximal RPE values can be used to provide acceptable estimates of V.O2maxwhich are more accurate than the published table values for the MFT. Furthermore, the use of RPE measures in conjunction with the MFT enhances the accuracy of V.O2maxprediction by the MFT.
Contrasting gender differences on two measures of exercise dependence: Table 1
Authors: Weik M , Hale B D
Published: February 2008

Objective:

Recent studies using multidimensional measures have shown that men (Exercise Dependence Scale; EDS-R) are more exercise-dependent than women, whereas others have found that women (Exercise Dependence Questionnaire; EDQ) are more exercise-dependent than men. This study investigated whether there may be sex differences in exercise dependence or whether the questionnaires may be measuring different dimensions of exercise dependence.

Design:

Regular exercisers voluntarily completed the EDS-R, EDQ and Drive for Thinness (DFT) subscale before or after a workout.

Setting:

A local health club in the eastern USA.

Participants:

Male (n = 102) and female (n = 102) exercisers completed the three questionnaires, but 11 participants (1 man, 10 women) were excluded from further analysis because scores indicated possible secondary exercise dependence (eating disorder).

Primary outcome measures:

Eight subscales of the EDQ, seven subscales of the EDS, the DFT subscale, and several demographic variables served as dependent measures.

Results:

A multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) on the EDS-R showed that men were significantly higher than women on the Withdrawal, Continuance, Tolerance, Lack of Control, Time, and Intention Effect subscales. Another MANOVA on the EDQ indicated that women scored significantly higher than did men on the Interference, Positive Rewards, Withdrawal, and Social Reasons subscales. Statistical analysis usingttests revealed that men had significantly higher total EDS-R scores than women, but women had significantly higher EDQ and DFT scores.

Conclusion:

These results suggest that both questionnaires measure different aspects of exercise dependence that favour either gender. It remains for further research to determine whether these instruments are equally viable for measurement of ED in both men and women.
Response of growth and myogenic factors in human skeletal muscle to strength training
Authors: Liu Y , Heinichen M , Wirth K , Schmidtbleicher D , Steinacker J M
Published: February 2008

Objective:

To investigate the response to different strength training techniques of growth and myogenic factors in human skeletal muscle, with particular emphasis on satellite cell (SC) activation.

Methods:

24 volunteers were divided into two groups and performed a 6-week strength training (group A trained with maximum contraction and group B had training combined with maximum contractions, ballistic movement and stretching–shortening cycles). Muscle biopsies were obtained from triceps brachii 3 days before and 7 days after training. For estimating gene expression of insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), mechano growth factor (MGF), MyoD and myogenin, real-time RT-PCR was performed.

Results:

In group A, there was an increase in the 1 repeat maximum (1RM), but no change in Vmax(maximum movement velocity) and an increase in MHC (myosin heavy chain) IIa and a decrease in MHC IIx; in group B both 1RM and Vmaxincreased significantly along with an increase in MHC IIa and a decrease in MHC I. The MGF gene expression increased significantly in both groups (by 1160% and 59%, respectively), and IGF-1 increased only in group A (by 335%). MyoD and myogenin gene expression increased in group A (by 107% and 94%, respectively) but did not change in group B.

Conclusions:

Response of growth and myogenic factors occurs during muscular adaptation to a prolonged training, and strength training with different strategies caused different responses with respect to gene expression of these factors. These results suggest that SC activation is involved in the muscular adaptation process to training and might be attributed to MHC isoform transition.
A new possibility for repairing the anal dysfunction by promoting regeneration of the reflex pathways in the enteric nervous system
Authors: Katsui Renta , Kojima Yu , Kuniyasu Hiroki , Shimizu Juichiro , Koyama Fumikazu , Fujii Hisao , Nakajima Yoshiyuki , Takaki Miyako
Published: February 2008

Moderate rectal distension elicits recto-rectal reflex contractions and simultaneous recto-internal anal sphincter reflex relaxations that together comprise the defecation reflex. Both reflexes are controlled by 1) pelvic nerves, 2) lumbar colonic nerves, and 3) enteric nervous system. The aim of the present study was to explore a novel approach to repairing the defecation reflex dysfunction by using the plasticity of enteric nervous pathways. Experiments were performed in anesthetized guinea pigs with ethyl carbamate. The rectum 30 mm oral from the anal verge was transected without damage to extrinsic nerves, and subsequent end-to-end one-layer anastomosis was performed. Recovery of the defecation reflex and associated reflex pathways were evaluated. Eight weeks after sectioning of intrinsic reflex nerve pathways in the rectum, the defecation reflex recovered to the control level, accompanied with regeneration of reflex pathways. The 5-HT4-receptor agonist mosapride (0.5 and 1.0 mg/kg) significantly ( P < 0.01) enhanced the recovered defecation reflex 8 wk after surgery. Two weeks after local treatment with brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF: 10−6 g/ml) at the rectal anastomotic site, the recto-internal anal sphincter reflex relaxations recovered and some bundles of fine nerve fibers were shown to interconnect the oral and anal ends of the myenteric plexus. These results suggested a possibility for repairing the anal dysfunction by promoting regeneration of the reflex pathways in the enteric nervous system with local application of BDNF.
Stimulation of the neurokinin 3 receptor activates protein kinase Cε and protein kinase D in enteric neurons
Authors: Poole D. P. , Amadesi S. , Rozengurt E. , Thacker M. , Bunnett N. W. , Furness J. B.
Published: February 2008

Tachykinins, acting through NK3 receptors (NK3R), contribute to excitatory transmission to intrinsic primary afferent neurons (IPANs) of the small intestine. Although this transmission is dependent on protein kinase C (PKC), its maintenance could depend on protein kinase D (PKD), a downstream target of PKC. Here we show that PKD1/2-immunoreactivity occurred exclusively in IPANs of the guinea pig ileum, demonstrated by double staining with the IPAN marker NeuN. PKCε was also colocalized with PKD1/2 in IPANs. PKCε and PKD1/2 trafficking was studied in enteric neurons within whole mounts of the ileal wall. In untreated preparations, PKCε and PKD1/2 were cytosolic and no signal for activated (phosphorylated) PKD was detected. The NK3R agonist senktide evoked a transient translocation of PKCε and PKD1/2 from the cytosol to the plasma membrane and induced PKD1/2 phosphorylation at the plasma membrane. PKCε translocation was maximal at 10 s and returned to the cytosol within 2 min. Phosphorylated-PKD1/2 was detected at the plasma membrane within 15 s and translocated to the cytosol by 2 min, where it remained active up to 30 min after NK3R stimulation. PKD1/2 activation was reduced by a PKCε inhibitor and prevented by NK3R inhibition. NK3R-mediated PKCε and PKD activation was confirmed in HEK293 cells transiently expressing NK3R and green fluorescent protein-tagged PKCε, PKD1, PKD2, or PKD3. Senktide caused membrane translocation and activation of kinases within 30 s. After 15 min, phosphorylated PKD had returned to the cytosol. PKD activation was confirmed through Western blotting. Thus stimulation of NK3R activates PKCε and PKD in sequence, and sequential activation of these kinases may account for rapid and prolonged modulation of IPAN function.
Evidence supportive of impaired myocardial blood flow reserve at high altitude in subjects developing high-altitude pulmonary edema
Authors: Kaufmann B. A. , Bernheim A. M. , Kiencke S. , Fischler M. , Sklenar J. , Mairbäurl H. , Maggiorini M. , Brunner-La Rocca H. P.
Published: February 2008

An exaggerated increase in pulmonary arterial pressure is the hallmark of high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) and is associated with endothelial dysfunction of the pulmonary vasculature. Whether the myocardial circulation is affected as well is not known. The aim of this study was, therefore, to investigate whether myocardial blood flow reserve (MBFr) is altered in mountaineers developing HAPE. Healthy mountaineers taking part in a trial of prophylactic treatment of HAPE were examined at low (490 m) and high altitude (4,559 m). MBFr was derived from low mechanical index contrast echocardiography, performed at rest and during submaximal exercise. Among 24 subjects evaluated for MBFr, 9 were HAPE-susceptible individuals on prophylactic treatment with dexamethasone or tadalafil, 6 were HAPE-susceptible individuals on placebo, and 9 persons without HAPE susceptibility served as controls. At low altitude, MBFr did not differ between groups. At high altitude, MBFr increased significantly in HAPE-susceptible individuals on treatment (from 2.2 ± 0.8 at low to 2.9 ± 1.0 at high altitude, P = 0.04) and in control persons (from 1.9 ± 0.8 to 2.8 ± 1.0, P = 0.02), but not in HAPE-susceptible individuals on placebo (2.5 ± 0.3 and 2.0 ± 1.3 at low and high altitude, respectively, P > 0.1). The response to high altitude was significantly different between the two groups ( P = 0.01). There was a significant inverse relation between the increase in the pressure gradient across the tricuspid valve and the change in myocardial blood flow reserve. HAPE-susceptible individuals not taking prophylactic treatment exhibit a reduced MBFr compared with either treated HAPE-susceptible individuals or healthy controls at high altitude.
Damaging effects of intense repetitive treadmill running on murine intestinal musculature
Authors: Rosa Eloi F. , Freymüller Edna , Ihara Silvia S. M. , Aboulafia Jeannine , Nouailhetas Viviane L. A.
Published: February 2008

Several gastrointestinal symptoms associated with prolonged intense exercise (IE) have been reported, although the mechanisms underlying its effects on the intestine remain poorly understood. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether IE may induce oxidative stress in the intestine, as well as its possible relationship with intestinal signaling impairments, leading to contractile disturbances. C57BL/6 mice were submitted to 4 days (EX.4D) and 10 days (EX.10D) of IE. The daily exercise session consisted of a running session until exhaustion, with the treadmill speed set at 85% of each animal's maximum velocity. The decrease in exhaustion time was exponential, and the reduction in the maximum velocity, as assessed by an incremental test, was higher in EX.4D than in EX.10D animals. The ileum mucosa layer was partially destroyed after 4 days of IE, where 37% and 11% muscle layer atrophies were observed in EX.4D and EX.10D animals, respectively. Ileum contractility was significantly impaired in the EX.4D animal group, with reduced efficacy for carbachol, bradykinin, and KCl signaling associated with a decrease in lipid peroxidation and with no alteration of protein oxidation. Intestinal myocytes from EX.10D animals displayed areas containing structurally disorganized mitochondria, which were associated with increased levels of protein oxidation, without alteration of contractility, except for a reduction in the potency of bradykinin signaling. Finally, no clear relationship between ileum contractility and oxidative stress was shown. Together, these results argue in favor of significant functional, biochemical, and morphological disturbances caused by exercise, thus demonstrating that intestinal tissue is very sensitive to exercise.
Temporal variability in the responses of individual canine airways to methacholine
Authors: Brown Robert H. , Kaczka David W. , Fallano Katherine , Chen Sining , Mitzner Wayne
Published: February 2008

Previous work showed that individual airway size, before any spasmogen, varied widely in the same animals on different days. The effect of this variable baseline size on the airway response to a subsequent challenge is unknown. The present study examined how the variability in individual airway baseline size in dogs was related to that after methacholine challenge on 4 different days using high-resolution computed tomography scans. Dogs were anesthetized and ventilated, and on 4 separate days randomly varying between 1 and 8 wk apart, baseline scans were acquired, followed by a continuous intravenous infusion of methacholine at three rates in increasing order (17, 67, and 200 μg/min). As the measure of variability, we used the coefficient of variation (CV) of the four airway luminal measurements of each airway at baseline and at each dose of methacholine. For most airways, there was wide variability both between and within dogs in the response to a given dose of methacholine (CV = 33–38%). Airways with any level of methacholine stimulation had greater variability than those at baseline. The airway variability was greatest at the lowest dose of methacholine administered but was elevated at all the doses. In conclusion, there was substantial day-to-day variability in baseline airway size. Most importantly, the same dose of methacholine to the same individual airway showed even greater variability than that at baseline. If we consider that increased heterogeneity may potentiate clinical symptoms, then airway response variability may play an important role in the manifestation of airway disease.
Very Low n–3 Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Status in Austrian Vegetarians and Vegans
Authors: Kornsteiner Margit , Singer Ingrid , Elmadfa Ibrahim
Published: February 2008

Background/Aims: The objective of the study was to collect data on dietary fat intake of omnivores, vegetarians, vegans and semi-omnivores as well as its impact on n–3 and n–6 fatty acids in long-term markers such as sphingolipids, phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylserine (PS), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) as well as the calculated sphingo- and phospholipids (SPL) of erythrocytes. Method: The present observational study included 98 Austrian adult volunteers of both genders, of which 23 were omnivores, 25 vegetarians, 37 vegans, and 13 semi-omnivores. Information on anthropometry using measured body weight and height was obtained. The amount and composition of ingested fat were calculated from 24-hour recalls and the fatty acid pattern in the phospholipids was assessed using gas chromatography. Results: The unbalanced n–6/n–3 ratio and the limited dietary sources of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in vegans and vegetarians led to reductions in C20:5n–3, C22:5n–3, C22:6n–3 and total n–3 fatty acids in SPL, PC, PS and PE compared with omnivores and semi-omnivores. The total content of polyunsaturated fatty acids, monounsaturated fatty acids and saturated fatty acids remained unchanged. Conclusion: The vegetarian diet, with an average n–6/n–3 ratio of 10/1, promotes biochemical n–3 tissue decline. To ensure physical, mental and neurological health vegetarians have to reduce the n–6/n–3 ratio with an additional intake of direct sources of EPA and DHA, regardless of age and gender.
Incidence Rates of Hepatitis B and C Virus Infections among Blood Donors in Hiroshima, Japan, during 10 Years from 1994 to 2004
Authors: Tanaka Junko , Mizui Masaaki , Nagakami Hideki , Katayama Keiko , Tabuchi Ayako , Komiya Yutaka , Miyakawa Yuzo , Yoshizawa Hiroshi
Published: February 2008

Objective: Although prevalence rates of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections have kept decreasing in blood donors, there is little information on incidence rates of these hepatitis viruses in Japan. Methods: During 10 years from June 1994 through April 2004, 418,269 inhabitants of Hiroshima, Japan, donated blood (1,409,465 units in total). They were screened for serum markers of HBV and HCV infections, and individuals who developed de novo infections were identified. Results: Infection with HBV occurred at a rate of 2.78 per 100,000 person-years (95% confidence interval: 1.78–4.14/100,000 person-years) and that with HCV at a rate of 1.86 per 100,000 person-years (95% confidence interval: 1.06–3.01/100,000 person-years). Residual risks of transmission by transfusions, based on the relationship risk [window period (estimated at 0.15 and 0.03 years in chimpanzees inoculated with minimum infectious doses for HBV and HCV, respectively) × incidence], were 1/243,000 for HBV and 1/1,960,000 for HCV infections. Conclusion: At present, incidence rates of HBV and HCV infections are extremely low in Japan.