bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spirituality, Demographic and Disease Factors, and Adjustment to Cancer
Authors: Schnoll Robert A. , Harlow Lisa L. , Brower Lisa
Published: September 2010

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between demographic‐disease variables, spirituality, and psychosocial adjustment in a heterogeneous sample of patients with cancer.

description of Study: Participants (N = 83) accrued through the Rhode Island Hospital and the American Cancer Society completed questionnaires, and structural equation modeling was used to examine the relationships among disease and demographic factors, spirituality, and psychosocial adjustment to cancer.

Results: Of five models tested, a mediational model received the strongest support (chi‐square(35)‐66.61; P = .005; comparative fit index = .90; root mean square error of approximation = .09), explaining 64% of the variance in psychosocial adjustment. Being a woman, having a longer illness duration, and having a lower disease stage were related to greater levels of purpose in life and religious/existential beliefs, which, in turn, were associated with higher levels of family and social adjustment and psychological health.

clinical Implications: The results indicate that spirituality can influence how patients with cancer adjust to their diagnosis and treatment and, thus, support the need for interventions that target spirituality to promote psychosocial adjustment in this population.
Psychological Sequelae and Alopecia Among Women with Cancer
Authors: McGarvey Elizabeth L. , Baum Lora D. , Pinkerton Relana C. , Rogers Laura M.
Published: September 2010

Purpose:This article reviews the relevant literature on treatment‐induced alopecia in women with cancer and describes the development of a computer‐assisted intervention to reduce distress associated with this side effect.

Description of program:Alopecia has been cited as the most disturbing anticipated side effect by up to 58% of women preparing for chemotherapy, with 8% being at risk for avoiding treatment. Women with cancer who experience alopecia as a side effect, compared with women with cancer and no alopecia, report lower self‐esteem, poorer body image, and lower quality of life. Although physicians' recommendations are the most influential factor on cancer treatment choice, body image and effects on sexuality are the next most influential factors. A study of a computer‐imaging intervention, based on concepts related to guided imagery and anticipatory grief, has been launched in an effort to aid women in coping with anticipated treatment‐related alopecia.

Results:While we are still waiting for final data collection and analysis from the computer intervention study, the feedback thus far has been positive.

Clinical implications:The intervention described here may prove to be effective in desensitizing women with cancer to hair loss and facilitating an adjustment to self‐acceptance. As such, a higher quality of life during the difficult time of coping may be maintained. The development of a computer‐imaging intervention offers an opportunity to integrate a standard psychosocial intervention, personalized for each patient, into the routine patient care in the oncology setting.
Effects of Early Losartan Therapy on Ventricular Late Potentials in Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Kim Dae‐Hyeok , Choi Woong‐Gil , Kwan Jun , Park Keum‐Soo , Lee Woo‐Hyung
Published: September 2010

Background: Ventricular late potentials (LPs) obtained by the signal‐averaged electrocardiogram (SAECG) have prognostic significance as independent predictors of arrhythmic events after an acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Angiotensin receptor blockers reduce the overall mortality and risk of sudden cardiac death in postinfarction patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of early losartan therapy on ventricular LPs, a noninvasive method for the evaluation of arrhythmogenic substrates in AMI patients.

Methods: The study included 97 patients with their first AMI. Forty‐eight patients (39 men and 9 women, aged 58.8 ± 13.19 years), received early losartan therapy. The control group consisted of 49 patients (38 men and 11 women, aged 59.55 ± 11.0 years), did not received early losartan therapy. The SAECG was performed at admission and day 14.

Results: The baseline clinical, angiographic characteristics, and reperfusion methods were similar in both groups. The baseline SAECG findings were also similar in the two groups. There was a significant decrease in the rate of LP, between the first and last SAECG recordings, after reperfusion therapy in the losartan group. All of the parameters of LPs were significantly improved in the losartan group on the last SAECG recordings.

Conclusion: The results of this study showed that losartan treatment, early after an AMI, reduced the incidence of LP and may thus favorably affect arrhythmia substrates.
INTRODUCTION: Street Life
Authors: BARKER JOSHUA
Published: September 2010

This special section of City & Society is the outcome of an international conference on Street Life held by the Centre for Diaspora and Transnational Studies (CDTS) at the University of Toronto from April 18–22, 2007.1 The conference was co‐organized and hosted by the Director of CDTS, Professor Ato Quayson. Professor Quayson and I would like to extend our thanks to the participants in the conference for laying the intellectual groundwork for this publication. We would also like to thank C&S editor, Petra Kuppinger, for bringing the publication to fruition.
Vietnam's Civilizing Process and the Retreat from the Street: A Turtle's Eye View From Ho Chi Minh City
Authors: HARMS ERIK
Published: September 2010

This paper documents the closing down of street life at the Turtle Lake café district in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Once a bustling area of outdoor activity where patrons would sit in outdoor cafés and turn their gaze towards the public activity of the street, the area has recently been cleared of street side cafés. Instead of looking outward toward the street, patrons now sit indoors in high‐end cafes with darkened windows, their gazes directed inwards in a fashion that turns their backs on the street. The new direction of their gaze is linked to both state and popular language about the desire to build a new form of “urban civilization.” In this paper, I show how the language of civilization, coupled with a new spatialized dialectic of seeing, shows a convergence between the disciplinary goals of the late socialist Vietnamese state and the interests of an emerging propertied class in urban Ho Chi Minh City. The logic of “civilization” thus unifies agendas heretofore seen as mutually opposed.
Learning the Form of Causal Relationships Using Hierarchical Bayesian Models
Authors: Lucas Christopher G. , Griffiths Thomas L.
Published: September 2010

People learn quickly when reasoning about causal relationships, making inferences from limited data and avoiding spurious inferences. Efficient learning depends on abstract knowledge, which is often domain or context specific, and much of it must be learned. While such knowledge effects are well documented, little is known about exactly how we acquire knowledge that constrains learning. This work focuses on knowledge of the functional form of causal relationships; there are many kinds of relationships that can apply between causes and their effects, and knowledge of the form such a relationship takes is important in order to quickly identify the real causes of an observed effect. We developed a hierarchical Bayesian model of the acquisition of knowledge of the functional form of causal relationships and tested it in five experimental studies, considering disjunctive and conjunctive relationships, failure rates, and cross‐domain effects. The Bayesian model accurately predicted human judgments and outperformed several alternative models.
A Comparison of Learning Experience, Workload, and Outcomes in Interior Design Education Using a Hand or Hybrid Approach
Authors: Zuo Qun , MaloneBeach Eileen E.
Published: September 2010

This exploratory study examined interior design projects developed using conventional hand techniques and a hybrid tool set of digital and nondigital media for differences in the learning experience, workload, and design outcomes. Two groups of students were randomly assigned to either a hand‐generated section or a hand‐and‐digital section. They were asked to design a residential unit within a given village site. Following presentation of the designs, students rated the effectiveness of visualization and the workload of using each tool set, and professional evaluators rated the design solutions on esthetical, functional, environmental, and viewing aspects. Overall, the performance outcomes were ranked higher for the hybrid group on three of four outcomes. The evaluators also rated the combined use group outcomes higher than the hand‐only group. These findings suggest that the hybrid design approach has a productive place in the interior design curriculum and practice. Future research with larger samples and more sophisticated technology is needed to fully examine the potential for integrating mediated tools into the interior design profession.
Role of host‐plant selection in resistance of wild Solanum species to Macrosiphum euphorbiae and Myzus persicae
Authors: Pompon Julien , Quiring Dan , Giordanengo Philippe , Pelletier Yvan
Published: September 2010

Damage to potatoes by Macrosiphum euphorbiae (Thomas) and Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (both Hemiptera: Aphididae) can be controlled through plant resistance. We used ethological experiments and electric penetration graph (EPG) analysis to evaluate the role of host selection in the previously assessed resistance levels of Solanum accessions: Solanum circaeifolium Bitter subsp. capsicibaccatum (Cárdenas) (PI210036), S. chomatophilum Bitter (PI243340 and PI310990), S. okadae Hawkes & Hjert. (PI458367), S. oplocense Hawkes (PI473368), S. pinnatisectum Dunal (PI186553), S. polyadenium Greenm. (PI230463), S. tarijense Hawkes (PI414150), and S. trifidum Correll (PI255538), to M. euphorbiae and M. persicae. Through multivariate analysis, we grouped behavioural variables into factors, which we related to host selection behaviours, and then evaluated whether factors varied between each accession and the susceptible S. tuberosum. None of the factors obtained by ethological experiments differed among accessions. Four of six and three of five factors obtained through EPG varied among accessions for M. euphorbiae and M. persicae, respectively, and were used to suggest resistance characteristics. The resistance to M. persicae of both S. chomatophilum accessions was associated with pathway activity disturbance. Solanum tarijense and S. polyadenium resistance to M. persicae resulted from leaf surface characteristics, which may be trichomes. Solanum oplocense and S. trifidum resistance to M. euphorbiae resulted from the wound response system, whereas S. pinnatisectum resistance may stem from nutritionally unbalanced or toxic phloem sap. Solanum polyadenium resistance to M. euphorbiae was phloem‐based. Solanum circaeifolium ssp. capsicibaccatum resistance to M. persicae, and the resistance of PI243340 S. chomatophilum and S. tarijense to M. euphorbiae were not related to host selection and therefore were presumably due to physiologically active compounds.
Occlusal considerations in implant therapy: clinical guidelines with biomechanical rationale
Authors: Kim Yongsik , Oh Tae‐Ju , Misch Carl E. , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: September 2010

Abstract: Due to lack of the periodontal ligament, osseointegrated implants, unlike natural teeth, react biomechanically in a different fashion to occlusal force. It is therefore believed that dental implants may be more prone to occlusal overloading, which is often regarded as one of the potential causes for peri‐implant bone loss and failure of the implant/implant prosthesis. Overloading factors that may negatively influence on implant longevity include large cantilevers, parafunctions, improper occlusal designs, and premature contacts. Hence, it is important to control implant occlusion within physiologic limit and thus provide optimal implant load to ensure a long‐term implant success. The purposes of this paper are to discuss the importance of implant occlusion for implant longevity and to provide clinical guidelines of optimal implant occlusion and possible solutions managing complications related to implant occlusion. It must be emphasized that currently there is no evidence‐based, implant‐specific concept of occlusion. Future studies in this area are needed to clarify the relationship between occlusion and implant success.
Bone formation at titanium porous oxide (TiUnite™) oral implants in type IV bone
Authors: Huang Yi‐Hao , Xiropaidis Andreas V. , Sorensen Rachel G. , Albandar Jasim M. , Hall Jan , Wikesjö Ulf M. E.
Published: September 2010

Background: Several oral implant design advances have been suggested to overcome poor bone quality, an impediment for successful implant treatment. A novel titanium porous oxide (TPO) surface has been shown to offer favorable results in several settings. The objective of this study was to evaluate the local bone formation and osseointegration at TPO‐modified implants in type IV bone.

Method: Three TPO surface‐modified implants (TiUnite™) were installed into the edentulated posterior maxilla in each of 8 Cynomolgus monkeys. The animals were injected with fluorescent bone labels at 2, 3, 4 and 16 weeks post‐surgery and were euthanized at week 16 when block biopsies were collected for histologic analysis.

Results: The predominant observation of the TPO implant surface was a thin layer of new bone covering most of the implant threads. Mean (±SE) bone–implant contact for the whole study group was 74.1±4.8%. There was a significant variability in bone–implant contact between animals (P=0.0003) and between sites of the same animal (P<0.0001). The variance in bone–implant contact was 30% larger among sites of the same animal than between different animals (187.5 vs. 144.8, respectively). There was a small but significant difference in bone density immediately outside, compared to within the threaded area of the implants (37.1±3.2% vs. 32.1±3.2%, P<0.0001). Bone density outside the implant threads was significantly correlated (β=0.682, P<0.0001) with the bone density within thethreaded area. Bone density within the threaded area was significantly correlated (β=0.493, P=0.0002) with bone–implant contact, whereas bone density outside the implant threads did not have a significant effect (β=0.232, P=0.1).

Conclusions: The results suggest that the TPO surface possesses a considerable osteoconductive potential promoting a high level of implant osseointegration in type IV bone in the posterior maxilla.
Immediate functional loading of TiOblast dental implants in full‐arch edentulous mandibles: a 3‐year prospective study
Authors: De Bruyn H. , Van de Velde T. , Collaert B.
Published: September 2010

Introduction: Implant‐prosthetic rehabilitation of the completely edentulous mandible has evolved to a simplified procedure with shorter treatment time and survival rates of 95–100% depending on the implant system used.

Purpose: The aim was to evaluate the 3‐year clinical success of Astra Tech TiOblast implants, functionally loaded on the day of surgery with a fixed full‐arch bridge in the mandible.

Materials and methods: One hundred and twenty‐five implants of 3.5–4 mm width and 11–17 mm length were installed in 25 edentulous mandibles of 15 female and 10 male patients. Implants were functionally loaded on the day of surgery with a provisional, acrylic, glassfibre reinforced, 10 unit bridge. After 3–4 months, the final 12‐unit bridge was constructed. Radiographical bone loss was measured on peri‐apical radiographs after 3, 12, 24 and 36 months.

Results: All implants were functional during the whole study period yielding a survival rate of 100%. None of the fixtures showed pain or mobility after manual torque with 20 N cm at the 3‐month control. Mean radiographical bone loss after 3 months and 1, 2 and 3 years was 0.6 mm (SD 0.7), 0.8 mm (SD 0.8), 1 mm (SD 0.8) and 1.3 (SD 1) respectively, which was statistically significantly increasing up to 1 year.

Conclusion: Immediate loading of full‐arch mandibular bridgework on five TiOblast implants offers a long‐lasting clinical result with 100% fixture survival and stable bone‐to‐implant contact up to 3 years.
Histomorphometric assessment of bone formation in sinus augmentation utilizing a combination of autogenous and hydroxyapatite/biphasic tricalcium phosphate graft materials: at 6 and 9 months in humans
Authors: Artzi Zvi , Weinreb Miron , Carmeli Guy , Lev‐Dor Rony , Dard Michel , Nemcovsky Carlos E.
Published: September 2010

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the efficacy of a new biphasic hydroxyapatite/tricalcium phosphate (HA/TCP) bone substitute in combination with particulate autogenous bone in sinus floor augmentation procedures.

Material and methods: A simultaneous or a two‐stage sinus augmentation and implant placement were conducted in 28 patients. A mixture of HA/TCP and autogenous bone chips in a 1 : 1 ratio was used as the grafting biomaterial. Cylindrical specimen bone retrieval was performed in all patients except one. Specimens were harvested either at 6 (n=14) or 9 (n=13) months post‐augmentation. For histologic and histomorphometric evaluations, the non‐decalcified tissue processing (Donath's technique) was performed.

Results: Newly formed bone around the grafted particles was found in all samples. The encircling, highly cellular bone followed the outline of the grafted particles in direct contact. Both woven and lamellar types of bone were observed.

Morphometrically, the total mean bone area fraction of all sections was 34.8±10.3%, increasing from 28.6±7.8% at 6 months to 41.6±8.3% at 9 months (P<0.001). Mean particle area fraction average was 25.5±11.6% and 23.5±9.3% at 6 and 9 months, respectively, with a total mean of 24.5±10.4%. The increase in bone area fraction was not significantly correlated to the decrease of the grafted particles area fraction.

Conclusions: The biphasic HA/TCP showed biocompatible and osteoconductive properties. This alloplast as a composite with autogenous bone chips promotes newly formed bone, which increases in its fraction along an extended healing period.
Early loading of mandibular full‐arch bridges screw retained after 1 week to four to five Monotype® implants: 3‐year results from a prospective multicentre study
Authors: Arvidson Kristina , Esselin Ove , Felle‐Persson Ewa , Jonsson Goran , Smedberg Jan‐Ivan , Soderstrom Ulf
Published: September 2010

Objectives: This prospective multicentre study provides clinical experience up to 3 years to support a simplified treatment for mandibular edentulism within 1 week by using one‐stage implant surgery and a screw‐retained full‐arch bridge.

Methods: Two hundred and fifty ITI Monotype® implants were installed in 62 patients out of 66 patients; 60 patients got four implants each and two got five implants. After 1 week, a final bridge was in function. Radiographs were taken as baseline for vertical bone loss up to 3 years post‐loading for the whole cluster and specific effects of gender, centre, age, bone class, implant length over time were compiled. Clinical (mPI, SBI) and subjective parameters such as general oral hygiene and patient satisfaction were recorded and repeated at specified intervals up to 3 years.

Results: Four patients were excluded at surgery and are not involved in the follow‐ups. At 1 year, 61 patients (244 implants) were evaluable and all bridges were in function. After 3 years, 49 patients (194 implants) came to control. Eight patients died during the follow‐up period. Three patients lost one implant each. The cumulative implant survival rate was 98.55% and the success rate for the prosthesis was 100%. As calculated from measurable radiographs, the mean bone level at baseline was 1.63±0.78 and at 1 and 3 years 2.50±0.60 and 2.56±0.74, respectively. Using the mixed model analysis and Friedman test, the time in situ, centre and bone class had significant effect on the bone resorption and to some small extent even, the implant length. Gender and age were unaffected. Oral hygiene and patient satisfaction of the treatment were improved.

Conclusions: The results indicate that one‐part self‐tapping sandblasted, large‐grit, acid‐etched (SLA) implants are suitable for loading within 1 week. In the whole period, the mean bone crestal resorption was <1 mm, which is in agreement with other similar studies.
The occurrence of toothwear in users of Ecstasy (3,4 MethyleneDioxyMethAmphetamine)
Authors: Milosevic Alexander , Agrawal Neeraj , Redfearn Phillip , Mair Lawrence
Published: September 2010

Abstract– Ecstasy users have reported that dry mouth, jaw tension and tooth grinding were common side effects of its use although the influence of these effects upon toothwear have not been previously investigated. Objective: This study aimed to compare incisal and occlusal toothwear in Ecstasy users and a group of non‐users of Ecstasy but users of other drugs. Methods: Groups were established by a snowball peer information network from visitors to the “drop‐in” Maryland centre in Liverpool. Volunteers completed a questionnaire about social life, drug use and diet. Clinical examination for wear on the incisal edges and on canine tips was conducted with a mirror and probe, whereas occlusal wear was recorded in impressions and subsequently scored from stone replica casts. The degree of tooth‐wear was scored according to the criteria of the Tooth Wear Index (Smith & Knight, Br Dent J 1984;157:16). Results: Ecstasy users (n= 30) were compared with non‐users (n= 28). Toothwear through the enamel into the underlying dentine occurred in 18 (60%) Ecstasy users but in only three (11%) non‐users. The overall mean toothwear score in Ecstasy users was 0.63 compared with 0.16 in non‐users (t= 4.34, P < 0.001). Dry mouth was reported by 93% of Ecstasy users whilst 89% stated that they clenched or ground their teeth after taking the drug. Tooth grinding commonly continued into the following morning. Carbonated (acidic) beverages were consumed by 93% of the users with a mean of three cans per “trip”. Conclusion: The severity of toothwear and the number of teeth affected were greater in Ecstasy users than in a group of non‐users. The occlusal surfaces were more commonly affected than the incisal, which may indicate jaw clenching rather than grinding as a feature of Ecstasy‐induced muscle hyperactivity.
Smoking in adolescence as a predictor of early loss of periodontal attachment
Authors: Hashim Raghad , Thomson W. Murray , Pack Angela R. C.
Published: September 2010

Abstract – Objectives: On the basis of information from studies of older adults, smoking is considered to be an important risk factor for periodontal disease. Examining periodontal loss of attachment among younger adults means a lower contribution from cumulative exposure to other environmental risk factors. The aim of this study was to examine the role of chronic exposure to cigarette smoking as a risk factor for greater prevalence and extent of periodontal loss of attachment among 26‐year‐old participants in a longstanding prospective cohort study.

Methods: Loss of attachment (LOA) was measured at three sites per tooth in two randomly selected contralateral quadrants (one upper, one lower). Cigarette smoking history was obtained at ages 15, 18, 21 and 26, and used to categorise participants as “never‐smokers”, “ever‐smokers”, “long‐term smokers” or “very long‐term smokers”. Results: Periodontal data were available for 914 Study members, among whom the prevalence of LOA of 4+mm was 19.4%. Among those who smoked at ages 15, 18, 21 and 26, it was 33.6%, and, after controlling for sex, self‐care and dental visiting, they were nearly three times as likely to have one or more sites with 4+mm LOA. Conclusions: Chronic exposure to smoking is a strong predictor of periodontal disease prevalence in young adults.
Direct and indirect costs of dental trauma in Sweden: a 2‐year prospective study of children and adolescents
Authors: Glendor Ulf , Jonsson Dick , Halling Arne , Lindqvist Kent
Published: September 2010

Abstract – Objectives: To study total costs, including direct costs (health care service, loss of personal property, medicine and transport) and indirect costs (loss of production or leisure) of dental trauma to children and adolescents with special reference to predictors. Methods: The study was based on a random sample of 192 children and adolescents with a dental trauma reported to an insurance company and prospectively followed up by telephone interviews over a period of 2 years. Results: On average, health care service costs represented 2955 SEK (SD=3818) and total costs 4569 SEK (SD=3053) for dental trauma to permanent teeth, and 837 SEK (SD=898) and 1746 SEK (SD=1183) for trauma to primary teeth. The most extensive type of indirect cost was loss of production or leisure, which averaged 1286 SEK (SD=1830) for injuries to permanent teeth and 699 SEK (SD=1239) for injuries to primary teeth. Multiple regression analysis of demographic and dental injury variables showed that complicated trauma was of special importance to costs for permanent and primary teeth injuries. The average relative increase in total costs to patients and companions for complicated injury to permanent teeth was 140% (95% confidence interval [CI], 66–248%) for patients and 132% (95% CI, 54–249%) for companions. Lack of access to a dental clinic near the place of residence could increase the average total costs of injuries to permanent teeth by 91% for companions (95% CI, 20–204%) and for primary teeth by 134% (95% CI, 38–296%). Conclusions: Dental traumas result in both direct and indirect costs, with a predominance of direct costs. The direct costs primarily depend on degree of severity, while indirect costs are mostly due to compromised access to health care service. Traumas to permanent teeth are especially costly and, due to additional maintenance, the care may continue for several years. This study has drawn attention to the significant implications of dental trauma to patient and companion, a new area where further studies are warranted.
Risk indicators of edentulism, partial tooth loss and prosthetic status among black and white middle‐aged and older adults
Authors: Dolan Teresa A. , Gilbert Gregg H. , Duncan R. Paul , Foerster Ulrich
Published: September 2010

Abstract – Objectives: To describe the prevalence and risk indicators of edentulism; to describe the frequencies of wearing removable dentures; to describe the prevalence and risk indicators of fixed prosthetic restorations; to test the hypothesis that fixed prosthetic restorations are most likely to have been placed in persons at lower risk for dental and periodontal diseases, and to test the hypothesis that, with dental disease, dental behaviors, dental attitudes and ability to afford crowns taken into account, blacks are less likely than whites to have received crowns. Methods: The Florida Dental Care Study is a cohort study of subjects 45 years old or older. A telephone screening interview was done as a first stage to identify 5254 subjects who met eligibility requirements and who self‐reported whether they were edentulous. In a second stage, a subsample of dentate subjects was contacted after they completed their telephone screening interview. Of these, 873 subjects completed a baseline in‐person interview and dental examination. Results: A total of 19% of first‐stage subjects were edentulous. In a single multiple logistic regression, having a poorer self‐rated level of general health was significantly associated with edentulism, as were being poor, older and white. Among the second‐stage participants (all of whom were dentate), several prosthetic patterns were observed. For example, a total of 64% of maxillary full denture wearers reported wearing their denture all the time. Participants had also received numerous fixed prosthodontic services. The proportion of subjects with at least one crown varied widely by subject characteristics. Conclusions: A substantial percentage of non‐ideal frequencies of wearing removable prostheses was reported, as were prosthesis‐related soreness and broken prostheses. Although we expected and observed an association between having a fixed prosthetic crown and periodontal status, dental fillings, dental attitudes and financial resources, a residual association with race suggests that blacks are much less likely to receive prosthetic crowns. The several possible reasons for this circumstance warrant further investigation.
New fermentation technique to process fish waste
Authors: YAMAMOTO Masahiro , SALEH Fuad , OHTSUKA Akira , HAYASHI Kunioki
Published: September 2010

The traditional method of processing fish waste is costly and usually overheats the waste, making it less digestible. In the present study, a fermentation technique using Aspergillus awamori was used to dry minced sardine fish to find a new model for processing fish waste and to evaluate its digestibility. Wheat bran (700 g), minced fresh sardines (2638 g) and A. awamori spores (0.7 g) were mixed together and kept in a ventilated incubator for 5 days at 40°C. At the end of the fermentation, a sample of fishmeal was taken to measure the nutrient content, enzyme activity and digestibility of crude protein (CP) and dry matter (DM) using an in vitro method. Furthermore, the effect of enzymes produced during the fermentation of DM and CP digestibilities of corn–soybean mixture in vitro were also examined. The percentage of moisture, CP, crude fat and nitrogen‐free extract in the fermented fish waste were 11, 39, 23 and 25%, respectively. The in vitro digestibilities of DM (69%) and CP (84%) of the fishmeal were almost the same as those of the heat‐dried sardine powder. During the fermentation, glucoamylase, α‐glucosidase, α‐amylase and acidic protease were produced, which may improve the DM digestibility of the diet. In conclusion, fish waste can be dried successfully using the fermentation technique described in the present study. Furthermore, the DM digestibility of the corn–soybean meal mixture is improved by the enzymes produced during the fermentation.
Evidence for estrogen receptor expression in the bursal epithelial cells of chicks
Authors: SHIN Young‐Ha , TAKAGI Fumiko , SUGITA Sachi , HAN Song , TSUJI Takehito , ABE Asaki , KONDO Yasuhiro
Published: September 2010

The aim of the present study was to demonstrate estrogen receptor (ER) α (ER‐α) and ER‐β expression in the bursa of Fabricius and cultured bursal epithelial cells (CBEC) by reverse transcription (RT)‐polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using a primer set design based on the sequences of chicken ER‐α complementary DNA (cDNA) and chicken ER‐β‐cDNA. In the case of ER‐α, RT‐PCR products of the expected size (698 base pairs (bp)) were amplified from cDNA derived from the bursa and CBEC, and from the oviduct, which was used as a positive control. All of the products were cleaved into two fragments of 476 bp and 222 bp by treating the products with restriction nuclease Hind III, indicating that these RT‐PCR products from the bursa, CBEC and genital organs were the same. In contrast, in the case of ER‐β, PCR products of the expected size (303 bp) were not detected in the bursa of Fabricius or CBEC, or in the oviduct and ovary. These results indicate that ER‐α is expressed in the bursa of Fabricius and in CBEC, but ER‐β is not expressed in the bursa or CBEC, or in the female genital organs of chickens.
Effects of long‐term administration of recombinant bovine somatotropin on the concentration of metabolites in milk in different stages of lactation in crossbred Holstein cattle
Authors: CHAIYABUTR Narongsak , THAMMACHAROEN Sumpun , KOMOLVANICH Siripen , CHANPONGSANG Somchai
Published: September 2010

Effects of long‐term treatment with recombinant bovine somatotropin (rbST) on concentrations of cellular metabolites in the milk of 87.5% crossbred Holstein cattle were performed. The peak milk yield of rbST‐treated animals was 22% higher (P < 0.05) than that of the control animals in early lactation. The mammary glucose uptake of rbST‐treated animals increased in early lactation, but decreased in mid and late lactation, while plasma glucose concentrations were not affected. Lactose and milk triacylglycerol secretion of rbST‐treated animals significantly increased (P < 0.05) when compared with those of control animals in early lactation. The concentrations of milk glucose of rbST‐treated animals significantly increased in early and mid‐lactation (P < 0.05). The concentrations of milk galactose markedly increased (P < 0.05) whereas the concentrations of milk uridine 5′‐diphosphoglucose (UDP‐glucose) and UDP‐galactose showed no significant changes as lactation advances in both groups. The concentrations of isocitrate, 2‐oxoglutarate and citrate in milk from both groups showed no significant changes throughout experiment. The concentration of glucose‐6‐phosphate (G6P), glucose‐1‐phosphate and cyclic adenosine 3,5′monophosphate in milk from both groups markedly decreased as lactation advances exception in early lactation of rbST‐treated animals, which G6P was not affected. These findings suggest that prolonged rbST treatment exerts its galactopoietic action at least in early lactation through both intramammary and extra‐mammary changes. Increases in the concentrations of glucose and G6P in milk maintained the level of pretreatment in early lactation associated with increases in milk yields during rbST administration, reflect their concentrations in the cytosol or Golgi vesicles of mammary cells, which would be one of the factors regulating intermediary metabolites in the lactose biosynthetic pathway.
Plasma leptin, feed intake and body fat accumulation in fattening castrated male and female lambs
Authors: BAN‐TOKUDA Tomomi , DELAVAUD Carole , CHILLIARD Yves , FUJIHARA Tsutomu
Published: September 2010

The main objective of this study was to investigate the relationships between changes in plasma leptin concentration and feed intake or bodyweight in female and castrated male lambs with fattening. Four female and four castrated male lambs were used and were fed roughage and concentrate supplemented with beef tallow ad libitum for 28 weeks. Although the feed intake and bodyweight increased with fattening in both the castrated male and female lambs, they decreased at 24–28 weeks in the female lambs. At the end of fattening, the crude fat content in the muscle (loin) of the female lambs was significantly higher than in the castrated male lambs (P < 0.05), while the crude protein content in the loin and fillet meat was higher in the castrated male than in the female lambs (P < 0.05). The plasma leptin concentration showed high values at a later stage of fattening (P < 0.05). In the female lambs the plasma insulin concentration increased at a later stage of fattening (P < 0.05) and was positively correlated (P < 0.0001, r = 0.78) with plasma leptin. Plasma metabolites (glucose, nonesterified fatty acid, total cholesterol and triglyceride) concentrations were also changed with fattening. Plasma total cholesterol was positively related to plasma leptin, more closely in the female than in the castrated male lambs (in females, r = 0.63, P < 0.001; in males, r = 0.38, P < 0.01). The accumulation of body fat was probably accelerated by the consumption of a lot of concentrate feed supplemented with treated beef tallow and by the stimulation of insulin with fattening. Consequently, the plasma leptin concentration increased, especially toward the end of the fattening period. The decrease in feed intake and bodyweight after the 24th week of fattening was possibly caused by an increase in leptin that is involved in the homeostatic regulation of body energy by regulating appetite.
An improved method for discriminating between Japanese Nagoya chickens and others
Authors: TAKAHASHI Hideaki , SAKAGAMI Masayuki
Published: September 2010

Recently, we reported a method for identifying the Nagoya, a Japanese chicken breed. Here we describe an improved method suitable for use in conventional laboratories. Five microsatellite markers fixed in the Nagoya breed were amplified by multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The PCR products were digested with CEL I nuclease and electrophoresed in a ready‐made gel. The fragment‐length polymorphisms of each marker were detected clearly in the gel, and the resultant exclusion probabilities were almost equal to that in our previous data. This method can be used in laboratories without a DNA sequencer for routinely discriminating between the Nagoya breed and other chickens.
Translating a Foreign Writer: A Case Study of Byron in China
Authors: Ting Guo
Published: September 2010

This paper analyzes the social and cultural factors attributed to Byron’s wide popularity in twentieth century’s China, highlighting a heroic image of Byron perceived by a majority of Chinese readers with only a few translations of his works. It is argued that Byron’s success was largely because of his support of Greece’s independence, which fit well in the prevailing nationalist discourse in China at that time. Translating Byron’s work thus became a process of constructing an image of Byron politically and ideologically suitable for both Chinese society and Chinese readers in different contexts. Not only did translators and literary critics play a crucial role in this process but also literary organizations contributed to the shaping and fostering of such a heroic image of Byron among Chinese readers. Although nowadays Byron has gradually lost his charm as the situation in China changed, his heroic image is in fact further simplified and reinforced through a stereotyped, ideologically charged definition imposed by English literature education in Chinese universities. This paper suggests that translating a foreign writer is not solely a literary exercise by certain individual literary agents but is a far more complex process involving multiple social, cultural and political relationships in the target culture(s), which consequently diversifies and enriches the interpretations of the writer and his works in the world.
Effects of γ‐Butyrobetaine and Mildronate on Nitric Oxide Production in Lipopolysaccharide‐Treated Rats
Authors: Sjakste Nikolajs , Baumane Larisa , Boucher Jean‐Luc , Dzintare Maija , Meirena Dainuvite , Sjakste Jelizaveta , Lauberte Lasma , Kalvinsh Ivars
Published: September 2010

Abstract: Production of nitric oxide was measured in lipopolysaccharide‐treated rats (10 mg/kg, 4 hr) using the electron paramagnetic resonance method. As compared to the control animals, the nitric oxide level in liver of lipopolysaccharide‐treated rats increased from 27.6±4.7 to 1485±129 ng/g tissue, in heart from 4.8±0.7 to 271±26 ng/g tissue, in blood from 33.6±12.4 to 638±136 ng/g tissue, in kidney from 3.3±0.5 to 356±31 ng/g tissue, in brain cortex from 46.0±3.4 to 227±27 ng/g tissue, in cerebellum from 27.7±2.6 to 218±30 ng/g tissue, and in testes from 13.8±1.1 to 86±8 ng/g tissue. Administration of the antiischaemic drug, mildronate (120 mg/kg) caused a significant twofold decrease of the nitric oxide level in brain cortex and cerebellum 1 hr after drug administration. Its natural analogue γ‐butyrobetaine (30 mg/kg) triggered a twofold decrease of the nitric oxide concentration in all studied tissues 30 min. after the administration. Nitric oxide reached the initial level 2 hr later. Neither mildronate nor γ‐butyrobetaine could inhibit the inducible nitric oxide synthase in vitro. Analogues of γ‐butyrobetaine appear to be prospective drugs for the treatment of circulatory complications of sepsis.
Attenuation of Abnormalities in the Lipid Metabolism during Experimental Myocardial Infarction Induced by Isoproterenol in Rats: Beneficial Effect of Ferulic Acid and Ascorbic Acid
Authors: Yogeeta Surinder Kumar , Hanumantra Rao Balaji Raghavendran , Gnanapragasam Arunachalam , Subramanian Senthilkumar , Rajakannu Subhashini , Devaki Thiruvengadam
Published: September 2010

Abstract: The present study aims at evaluating the effect of the combination of ferulic acid and ascorbic acid on isoproterenol‐induced abnormalities in lipid metabolism. The rats were divided into eight groups: Control, isoproterenol, ferulic acid alone, ascorbic acid alone, ferulic acid+ascorbic acid, ferulic acid+isoproterenol, ascorbic acid+isoproterenol and ferulic acid+ascorbic acid+isoproterenol. Ferulic acid (20 mg/kg b.w.t.) and ascorbic acid (80 mg/kg b.w.t.) both alone and in combination was administered orally for 6 days and on the fifth and the sixth day, isoproterenol (150 mg/kg b.w.t.) was injected intraperitoneally to induce myocardial injury to rats. Induction of rats with isoproterenol resulted in a significant increase in the levels of triglycerides, total cholesterol, free fatty acids, free and ester cholesterol in both serum and cardiac tissue. A rise in the levels of phospholipids, lipid peroxides, low density lipoprotein and very low density lipoprotein‐cholesterol was also observed in the serum of isoproterenol‐intoxicated rats. Further, a decrease in the level of high density lipoprotein in serum and in the phospholipid levels, in the heart of isoproterenol‐intoxicated rats was observed, which was paralleled by abnormal activities of lipid metabolizing enzymes: total lipase, cholesterol ester synthase, lipoprotein lipase and lecithin: cholesterol acyl transferase. Pre‐cotreatment with the combination of ferulic acid and ascorbic acid significantly attenuated these alterations and restored the levels to near normal when compared to individual treatment groups. Histopathological observations were also in correlation with the biochemical parameters. These findings indicate the synergistic protective effect of ferulic acid and ascorbic acid on isoproterenol‐induced abnormalities in lipid metabolism.
Aflatoxin B1‐Induced DNA Damage in Labeo rohita: Protective Effect of an Antioxidant Supplement, Amrita Bindu
Authors: Madhusudhanan N. , Kavithalakshmi S. N. , Shanmugasundaram E. R. B. , Shanmugasundaram K. R.
Published: September 2010

Abstract: The present study was undertaken to investigate the effect of potent hepatocarcinogen aflatoxin B1 in adduct formation and DNA damage in Labeo rohita. Also, the salubrious efficacy of an antioxidant supplement Amrita Bindu (based on Indian system of Medicine) was investigated. Fish weighing 175–250 g were administered intraperitoneally a single dose of 100 μg aflatoxin B1/100 g body wt. and another group was given 20% solution of Amrita Bindu along with aflatoxin B1 at 100 μg/100 g body wt. On the 3rd and 6th day, the liver tissue was analyzed for aflatoxin concentration, aflatoxin‐DNA adduct formation and DNA damage measured in terms of single strand breaks. The fishes administered with aflatoxin B1 showed elevated concentration of aflatoxin along with a parallel increase in the DNA adduct when compared with the controls. While the fish co‐administered with Amrita Bindu showed 34% and 24% reduction in aflatoxin deposition (accumulation) and aflatoxin‐DNA adduct formation respectively on the 3rd day, a further reduction by around 41% and 33% in aflatoxin deposition and DNA adduct formation respectively was observed on the 6th day. Furthermore, the increased single strand breaks (measured by alkaline single cell gel assay) and fragmentation observed in agarose gel electrophoresis in aflatoxin B1 administered fish were significantly reduced by Amrita Bindu co‐administration. In conclusion, this is the first report to show aflatoxin B1‐induced DNA adduct formation and DNA damage in one of the major Indian culturable fish, Labeo rohita. Also, our observations show that the antioxidant supplement, Amrita Bindu, has a potential role in ameliorating the aflatoxin B1‐induced DNA damage thus suggesting its applicability in preventing the vital macromolecule DNA.
Influence of Naringenin on Oxytetracycline Mediated Oxidative Damage in Rat Liver
Authors: Pari Leelavinothan , Gnanasoundari Muthurangam
Published: September 2010

Abstract:Naringenin is a naturally occurring citrus flavanone, which has been reported to have a wide range of pharmacological properties. The present work was carried out to evaluate the effect of naringenin on antioxidant and lipid peroxidation status in liver of oxytetracycline‐intoxicated rats. Intraperitonial administration of oxytetracycline 200 mg/kg for 15 days resulted a significant elevation in serum hepatospecific markers such as aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, and bilirubin and the levels of lipid peroxidation markers (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and lipid hydroperoxides) in liver. Oxytetracycline also caused a significant reduction in the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, reduced glutathione (GSH), vitamin C and vitamin E in liver. Oral administration of naringenin (50 mg/kg b.w.t.) with oxytetracycline significantly decreased the activities of serum aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase and the levels of bilirubin along with significant decrease in the levels of lipid peroxidation markers in the liver. In addition, naringenin significantly increased the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase and GSH peroxidase as well as the level of GSH, vitamin C and vitamin E in liver of the oxytetracycline‐treated rats. Our results demonstrate that naringenin exhibited antioxidant property and decrease the lipid peroxidation against oxytetracycline‐induced oxidative stress in liver.
Ambient Air Pollution and Adverse Birth Outcomes: Methodologic Issues in an Emerging Field
Authors: Ritz Beate , Wilhelm Michelle
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  Since the mid‐1990s, the number of studies linking air pollutants to low birthweight, small for gestational age, preterm birth and cardiac birth defects has grown steadily. This MiniReview (in conjunction with the May 2007 International Conference on Foetal Programming and Development Toxicity) highlights key methodological issues surrounding this research area, based on our experiences in Southern California. All ‘criteria’ air pollutants have been linked to birth outcomes. Our own studies found most consistent associations for carbon monoxide and particles. Traffic exhaust toxins are possible causative agents, but air monitoring data relied on by almost all existing studies inadequately capture their intracommunity variability in concentrations. Exposure assessment might be improved by biomarkers and land use‐based regression modelling or information on time‐activity patterns. Foetal development provides unique opportunities to study exposures acting during narrow susceptibility windows. A time‐series approach by design controls for confounders that do not vary temporally but can only address short‐term acute effects. Studies employing spatial or medium‐term (trimester‐specific) temporal contrasts may be more susceptible to residual confounding, and studies adjusting only for risk factors recorded on birth certificates have been criticized. Findings from our recent study in Southern California indicate that air pollution effect estimates are not markedly influenced by risk factors not provided on birth certificates. Yet, studies collecting detailed risk factor information in other geographic regions may be needed to further evaluate the extent of residual confounding in record‐based analyses. Investigating biological mechanisms (e.g. using ultrasound measurements and biomarkers for hypothesized pathways) is an important remaining issue.