bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geodynamic evolution of Mt. Riiser-Larsen, Napier Complex, East Antarctica, with reference to the UHT mineral associations and their reaction relations
Authors: Hokada Tomokazu , Motoyoshi Yoichi , Suzuki Satoko , Ishikawa Masahiro , Ishizuka Hideo
Published: November 2008

Mt. Riiser-Larsen is the largest outcrop in the Archaean–early Proterozoic Napier Complex, East Antarctica. The area is structurally divided into the Main and the Western Blocks by the subvertical Riiser-Larsen Main Shear Zone (RLMSZ) of about 200 m width composed of mylonite and pseudotachylite. Mineral parageneses including sapphirine+quartz and osumilite, diagnostic of ultrahigh-temperature (UHT) metamorphism, are found in Mg-rich aluminous, siliceous and quartzo-feldspathic gneiss layers in both the Main and the Western Blocks of the Mt. Riiser-Larsen area. Some of the sapphirine–quartz associations are accompanied by retrograde reaction textures, which include growth of cordierite and/or garnet between sapphirine and quartz in the Main Block, and of orthopyroxene+sillimanite in the Western Block. These textures indicate the reaction

(1)

sapphirine
+
quartz
(
+
orthopyroxene
)
=
cordierite

and

(2)

sapphirine
+
quartz
(
+
orthopyroxene
)
=
garnet

in the Main Block and

(3)

sapphirine
+
quartz
=
orthopyroxene
+
sillimanite

in the Western Block. Phase equilibria and
P
–
T
pseudosections for sapphirine+quartz-bearing associations suggest that these three reactions took place during a temperature drop from 1100 °C to 1000 °C at pressures of 0.6–0.8 GPa in the Main Block and 0.8–0.9 GPa in the Western Block. The geological structure and distribution of the UHT rocks provide an insight into the vertical extent of the>1000 °C UHT metamorphic zone: a minimum thickness of 4–5 km of the UHT-metamorphosed layers, which become deeper towards the west in the Main Block. The Western Block represents a
c.
0.1–0.3 GPa (
c.
3–10 km) deeper structural level than the Main Block. In addition to the extent of the horizontal distribution of UHT metamorphism in the Napier Complex, our results on the vertical component provide new constraints for modelling the heat source and tectonic process of the unusually high-temperature regional metamorphism in the late Archaean–early Proterozoic. Electron microprobe monazite U–Th–Pb dating for hydrated and mylonitized sapphirine–quartz gneiss gave a wide spectrum of monazite age distribution between 2300 and 800 Ma, suggesting the tectonic uplift and juxtaposition of the two blocks in the Mt. Riiser-Larsen area later than the mid–late Proterozoic.
Crystal size distribution of garnet in quartzo-feldspathic gneisses from the Lützow-Holm Complex at Skallen, East Antarctica
Authors: Goto Saori , Ikeda Takeshi
Published: November 2008

Crystal size distributions (CSDs) of garnet in quartzo-feldspathic gneisses from the Lützow-Holm Complex at Skallen, East Antarctica, indicate that significant annealing with Ostwald ripening did not take place even though the rocks underwent regional granulite-facies metamorphism with a peak phase of ultrahigh-temperature conditions. Absence of fluid as a result of the complete consumption of hydrous minerals during garnet-forming reactions could restrain intergranular diffusion and inhibit Ostwald ripening. Garnet-poor gneisses have experienced a single nucleation and growth event associated with a continuous garnet-forming reaction. In contrast, garnet-rich gneisses from the same outcrop have undergone additional garnet-forming reactions responsible for multiple stages of nucleation and growth.
Fe
2+
–Mg partitioning experiments between orthopyroxene and spinel using ultrahigh-temperature granulite from the Napier Complex, East Antarctica
Authors: Sato Kei , Miyamoto Tomoharu , Kawasaki Toshisuke
Published: November 2008

Temperature dependence of the Fe
2+
–Mg exchange between orthopyroxene (Opx) and spinel (Spl),

1
/
2

Fe
2

Si
2

O
6

+

MgAl
2

O
4

=
1
/
2

Mg
2

Si
2

O
6

+

FeAl
2

O
4

Opx

Spl

Opx

Spl

was experimentally determined at 9–13 kbar and 900–1200 °C using an ultrahigh-temperature (UHT) granulite collected from the Napier Complex in Enderby Land, East Antarctica. The Fe
2+
–Mg distribution coefficient,

K
D

=

X

Fe

Spl

X

Mg

Opx

X

Mg

Spl

X

Fe

Opx

is empirically obtained as

ln

K
D

=
−
1.134
+
[
2341
+
7.5
(
P
−
11
)
]
/
T

where
X
is the cationic mole fraction, and pressure
P
and temperature
T
are in kbar and Kelvin, respectively. The new geothermometer was applied to various natural UHT and associated high-grade metamorphic rocks from East Antarctica and other regions of the world. The results indicate temperatures between 735 and 902 °C at pressures in the range of 5–14 kbar. This geothermometer utilizing spinel does not give peak metamorphic condition, because it is relatively easy for spinel to re-equilibrate during the cooling stage of metamorphism. Hence, we conclude that the geothermometer is suitable for evaluating the closure temperature for the
K
D
between aluminous orthopyroxene and spinel during retrograde metamorphism rather than the thermal peak.
Terrane correlation between Antarctica, Mozambique and Sri Lanka; comparisons of geochronology, lithology, structure and metamorphism and possible implications for the geology of southern Africa and Antarctica
Authors: Grantham G. H. , Macey P. H. , Ingram B. A. , Roberts M. P. , Armstrong R. A. , Hokada T. , Shiraishi K. , Jackson C. , Bisnath A. , Manhica V.
Published: November 2008

Analysis of new lithological, structural, metamorphic and geochronological data from extensive mapping in Mozambique permits recognition of two distinct crustal blocks separated by the Lurio Belt shear zone. Extrapolation of the Mozambique data to adjacent areas in Sri Lanka and Dronning Maud Land, Antarctica permits the recognition of similar crustal blocks and allows the interpretation that the various blocks in Mozambique, Sri Lanka and Antarctica were once part of a mega-nappe, forming part of northern Gondwana, which was thrust-faulted
c.
600 km over southern Gondwana during amalgamation of Gondwana at
c.
590–550 Ma. The data suggest a deeper level of erosion in southern Africa compared with Antarctica. It is possible that this thrust domain extends, through the Zambezi Belt or Valley, as far west as the Damara Orogen in Namibia with the Naukluft nappes in Namibia, the Makuti Group, the Masoso Suite in the Rushinga area and the Urungwe klippen in northern Zimbabwe, fitting the mega-nappe pattern. Erosional products of the mountain belt are now represented by 700–400 Ma age detrital zircons present in the various sandstone formations of the Transantarctic Mountains, their correlatives in Australia, as well as the Urfjell Group (western Dronning Maud Land) and probably the Natal Group in South Africa.
Macroscopic geological structures of the Napier and Rayner Complexes, East Antarctica
Authors: Toyoshima T. , Osanai Y. , Nogi Y.
Published: November 2008

This paper presents a form-line map of the Napier and Rayner Complexes, East Antarctica, constructed from attitude data for foliations shown on published geological maps, and discusses the macroscopic geological structures. The form-line map shows that the two complexes consist of several, structurally distinct, units or blocks bounded by east–west-, NE–SW- and NW–SE-striking faults. The major boundary between the two complexes, as indicated on the published geological maps, is a structural discontinuity shown as a large fault on the form-line map. On the form-line map, east–west- and NE–SW-trending folds are abundant and NW–SE-trending ones occur locally in both complexes. North–south-trending folds are also abundant in the Napier Complex. Dome-and-basin fold patterns on a regional scale occur in some regions. The regional strikes, macroscopic structures, and the major boundary between the two complexes are considered to have resulted from the same later deformation episode. The form-line map and distribution map of key mineral assemblages show that the Napier Complex is not uniform and includes at least two types of metamorphic units or fragments of the Archaean crust that were formed through distinct
P
–
T
–
t
evolutionary processes and divided by several faults.
Pre-metamorphic carbon, oxygen and strontium isotope signature of high-grade marbles from the Lützow-Holm Complex, East Antarctica: apparent age constraints of carbonate deposition
Authors: Satish-Kumar M. , Miyamoto T. , Hermann J. , Kagami H. , Osanai Y. , Motoyoshi Y.
Published: November 2008

C, O and Sr isotope geochemistry of high-grade marbles from the Lützow-Holm Complex, East Antarctica, has given clues on the depositional ages and post-depositional alterations. Dolomitic and calcitic marbles occur as thin layers with varying thickness (up to 100 m) in several outcrops in eastern Dronning Maud Land, most of which underwent post-depositional geochemical alterations. In particular, the Sr and O isotope alterations are extensive, with
87
Sr/
86
Sr
(550 Ma)
ratios as high as 0.758 and δ
18
O values as low as −5‰. These data suggest that multiple stages of fluid–rock interaction processes during diagenesis, prograde to peak and retrograde metamorphic events have altered the depositional isotopic signatures. However, some of the marble layers, exceptionally, preserve pre-metamorphic geochemical characteristics, such as low Sr isotope ratios, high δ
18
O and δ
13
C values, and well-equilibrated unaltered trace and rare earth element patterns. Lowest
87
Sr/
86
Sr isotopic ratios of 0.7066 and 0.7053 with high δ
13
C and δ
18
O values suggest an apparent age of deposition around 730–830 Ma, although total geochemical resetting of carbonates by seawater of this age cannot be ruled out. The apparent depositional ages are consistent with carbonate deposition in the ‘Mozambique Ocean’ that separated East and West Gondwana.
Elastic properties of high-grade metamorphosed igneous rocks from Enderby Land and eastern Dronning Maud Land, Antarctica: evidence for biotite-bearing mafic lower crust
Authors: Ishikawa M. , Shingai E. , Arima M.
Published: November 2008

Ultrasonic measurements of P-wave velocity (
V
p
) and S-wave velocity (
V
s
) were conducted at high pressures up to 1.0 GPa and high temperatures up to 400 °C for ultrahigh-temperature (UHT) metamorphosed rocks from Mount Riiser-Larsen, in the Archaean Napier Complex of Enderby Land. The results at 1.0 GPa and 400 °C are
V
p
=7.17 km s
−1
,
V
s
=4.24 km s
−1
,
V
p
/
V
s
=1.69, Poisson's ratio (σ)=0.23 for pyroxenite (SiO
2
=44.2 wt%, density (ρ)=3.41 g cm
−3
);
V
p
=6.93 km s
−1
,
V
s
=3.81 km s
−1
,
V
p
/
V
s
=1.82, σ=0.28 for mafic granulite (SiO
2
=52.2 wt%, ρ=3.02 g cm
−3
);
V
p
=6.88 km s
−1
,
V
s
=3.72 km s
−1
,
V
p
/
V
s
=1.85, σ=0.29 for mafic granulite (SiO
2
=49.5 wt%, ρ=2.88 g cm
−3
); and
V
p
=6.17 km s
−1
,
V
s
=3.59 km s
−1
,
V
p
/
V
s
=1.72, σ=0.24 for orthopyroxene-bearing felsic gneiss (SiO
2
=65.4 wt%, ρ=2.68 g cm
−3
).
V
p
and
V
p
/
V
s
of these UHT rocks are not comparable with the previously proposed seismic velocity model (
V
p
=6.56 km s
−1
,
V
p
/
V
s
=1.70) for the lower crust beneath the Mizuho Plateau of eastern Dronning Maud Land. Combining the available measured velocity and density data with the seismic velocity profile defined for the Mizuho Plateau, we suggest that relatively low
V
p
and
V
s
characteristics of the lower crust beneath the Mizuho Plateau may be attributed to higher abundance of biotite in the mafic lower crustal rocks. It is proposed that the biotite-bearing lower crustal rocks were formed by metasomatic processes associated with Pan-African orogeny.
Synchronized gastric electrical stimulation improves vagotomy-induced impairment in gastric accommodation via the nitrergic pathway in dogs
Authors: Chen Jie , Koothan Thillai , Chen Jiande D. Z.
Published: November 2008

Impaired gastric accommodation and gastric dysrhythmia are common in gastroparesis and functional dyspepsia. Recent studies have shown that synchronized gastric electrical stimulation (SGES) accelerates gastric emptying and enhances antral contractions in dogs. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects and mechanism of SGES on gastric accommodation and slow waves impaired by vagotomy in dogs. Gastric tone, compliance, and accommodation as well as slow waves with and without SGES were assessed in seven female regular dogs and seven dogs with bilateral truncal vagotomy, chronically implanted with gastric serosal electrodes and a gastric cannula. We found that 1) vagotomy impaired gastric accommodation that was normalized by SGES. The postprandial increase in gastric volume was 283.5 ± 50.6 ml in the controlled dogs, 155.2 ± 49.2 ml in the vagotomized dogs, and 304.0 ± 57.8 ml in the vagotomized dogs with SGES. The ameliorating effect of SGES was no longer observed after application of Nω-nitro-l-arginine (l-NNA); 2) vagotomy did not alter gastric compliance whereas SGES improved gastric compliance in the vagotomized dogs, and the improvement was also blocked by l-NNA; and 3) vagotomy impaired antral slow wave rhythmicity in both fasting and fed states. SGES at the proximal stomach enhanced the postprandial rhythmicity and amplitude (dominant power) of the gastric slow waves in the antrum. In conclusion, SGES with appropriate parameters restores gastric accommodation and improves gastric slow waves impaired by vagotomy. The improvement in gastric accommodation with SGES is mediated via the nitrergic pathway. Combined with previously reported findings (enhanced antral contractions and accelerated gastric emptying) and findings in this study (improved gastric accommodation and slow waves), SGES may be a viable therapy for gastroparesis.
Increased glial glutamate transporter EAAT2 expression reduces visceral nociceptive response in mice
Authors: Lin Yuan , Tian Guilian , Roman Kenny , Handy Chalonda , Travers Joseph B. , Lin Chien-liang Glenn , Stephens Robert L.
Published: November 2008

Visceral hypersensitivity is the leading complaint of functional bowel disorders. Central sensitization mediated by glutamate receptor activation is implicated in pathophysiology of visceral pain. The glial glutamate transporter EAAT2 is the principal mediator of glutamate clearance to terminate glutamate-mediated responses. Transgenic mice overexpressing human EAAT2 (EAAT2 mice), which exhibited a twofold enhanced glutamate uptake, showed 39% less writhing response to intraperitoneal acetic acid than nontransgenic littermates. Moreover, EAAT2 transgenic mice showed a 53–64% reduction in visceromotor response (VMR) to colorectal distension (CRD) in assessments of the response to graded increase in pressures. Corroborating the involvement of enhanced glutamate uptake, wild-type mice treated for 1 wk with ceftriaxone, an EAAT2 expression activator, showed a 49–70% reduction in VMR to CRD. Moreover, systemic pretreatment with the selective EAAT2 transporter blocker dihydrokainate reversed the ceftriaxone-blunted nociceptive response to CRD. However, the enhanced VMR to CRD produced by intracolonic ethanol was not significantly attenuated by 1-wk ceftriaxone pretreatment. The data suggest that enhanced glutamate uptake provides protective effects against colonic distension-induced nociception and represents an exciting new mechanistic approach leading to better therapeutic options to visceral pain disorders.
Repeated-bout exercise in the heat in young athletes: physiological strain and perceptual responses
Authors: Bergeron Michael F. , Laird Melissa D. , Marinik Elaina L. , Brenner Joel S. , Waller Jennifer L.
Published: November 2008

A short recovery period between same-day competitions is common practice in organized youth sports. We hypothesized that young athletes will experience an increase in physiological strain and perceptual discomfort during a second identical exercise bout in the heat, with 1 h (21°C) between bouts, even with ample hydration. Twenty-four athletes (6 boys and 6 girls: 12–13 yr old, 47.7 ± 8.3 kg; 6 boys and 6 girls: 16–17 yr old, 61.0 ± 8.6 kg) completed two 80-min intermittent exercise bouts (treadmill 60%, cycle 40% peak oxygen uptake) in the heat (33°C, 48.9 ± 6.1% relative humidity). Sweat loss during each bout was similar within each age group (12–13 yr old: bout 1, 943.6 ± 237.1 ml; bout 2, 955.5 ± 250.3 ml; 16–17 yr old: bout 1, 1,382.2 ± 480.7 ml; bout 2, 1,373.1 ± 472.2 ml). Area under the curve (AUC) was not statistically different ( P > 0.05) between bouts for core body temperature (12–13 yr old: bout 1 peak, 38.6 ± 0.4°C; bout 2, 38.4 ± 0.2°C; 16–17 yr old: bout 1 peak, 38.8 ± 0.7°C; bout 2, 38.7 ± 0.6°C), physiological strain index (12–13 yr old: bout 1 peak, 7.9 ± 0.9; bout 2, 7.5 ± 0.7; 16–17 yr old: bout 1 peak, 8.1 ± 1.5; bout 2, 7.9 ± 1.4), or thermal sensation for any age/sex subgroup or for all subjects combined. However, rating of perceived exertion AUC and peak were higher ( P = 0.0090 and 0.0004, respectively) during bout 2 in the older age group. Notably, four subjects experienced consistently higher responses throughout bout 2. With these healthy, fit, young athletes, 1 h of complete rest, cool down, and rehydration following 80 min of strenuous exercise in the heat was generally effective in eliminating any apparent carryover effects that would have resulted in greater thermal and cardiovascular strain during a subsequent identical exercise bout.
Na+/H+exchange inhibitor cariporide attenuates skeletal muscle infarction when administered before ischemia or reperfusion
Authors: McAllister Sandra E. , Moses Michael A. , Jindal Kunaal , Ashrafpour Homa , Cahoon Neil J. , Huang Ning , Neligan Peter C. , Forrest Christopher R. , Lipa Joan E. , Pang Cho Y.
Published: November 2008

Administration of Na+/H+exchange isoform-1 (NHE-1) inhibitors before ischemia has been shown to attenuate myocardial infarction in several animal models of ischemia-reperfusion injury. However, controversy still exists as to the efficacy of NHE-1 inhibitors in protection of myocardial infarction when administered at the onset of reperfusion. Furthermore, the efficacy of NHE-1 inhibition in protection of skeletal muscle from infarction (necrosis) has not been studied. This information has potential clinical applications in prevention or salvage of skeletal muscle from ischemia-reperfusion injury in elective and trauma reconstructive surgery. The objective of this research project is to test our hypothesis that the NHE-1 inhibitor cariporide is effective in protection of skeletal muscle from infarction when administered at the onset of sustained ischemia or reperfusion and to study the mechanism of action of cariporide. In our studies, we observed that intravenous administration of cariporide 10 min before ischemia (1 or 3 mg/kg) or reperfusion (3 mg/kg) significantly reduced infarction in pig latissimus dorsi muscle flaps compared with the control, when these muscle flaps were subjected to 4 h of ischemia and 48 h of reperfusion ( P < 0.05; n = 5 pigs/group). Both preischemic and postischemic cariporide treatment (3 mg/kg) induced a significant decrease in muscle myeloperoxidase activity and mitochondrial-free Ca2+content and a significant increase in muscle ATP content within 2 h of reperfusion ( P < 0.05; n = 4 pigs/group). Preischemic and postischemic cariporide treatment (3 mg/kg) also significantly inhibited muscle NHE-1 protein expression within 2 h of reperfusion after 4 h of ischemia, compared with the control ( P < 0.05; n = 3 pigs/group). These observations support our hypothesis that cariporide attenuates skeletal muscle infarction when administered at the onset of ischemia or reperfusion, and the mechanism involves attenuation of neutrophil accumulation and mitochondrial-free Ca2+overload and preservation of ATP synthesis in the early stage of reperfusion.
Fusimotor Drive May Adjust Muscle Spindle Feedback to Task Requirements in Humans
Authors: Ribot-Ciscar Edith , Hospod Valérie , Roll Jean-Pierre , Aimonetti Jean-Marc
Published: November 2008

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the fusimotor control of muscle spindle sensitivity may depend on the movement parameter the task is focused on, either the velocity or the final position reached. The unitary activities of 18 muscle spindle afferents were recorded by microneurography at the common peroneal nerve. We compared in two situations the responses of muscle spindle afferents to ankle movements imposed while the subject was instructed not to pay attention to or to pay attention to the movement, both in the absence of visual cues. In the two situations, three ramp-and-hold movements were imposed in random order. In one situation, the three movements differed by their velocity and in the other by the final position reached. The task consisted in ranking the three movements according to the parameter under consideration (for example, slow, fast, and medium). The results showed that paying attention to movement velocity gave rise to a significant increase in the dynamic and static responses of muscle afferents. In contrast, focusing attention on the final position reached made the muscle spindle feedback better discriminate the different positions and depressed its capacity to discriminate movement velocities. Changes are interpreted as reflecting dynamic and static gamma activation, respectively. The present results support the view that the fusimotor drive depends on the parameter the task is focused on, so that the muscle afferent feedback is adjusted to the task requirements.
Ocular Burn: Rinsing and Healing with Ionic Marine Solutions and Vegetable Oils
Authors: Said Toihiri , Dutot Mélody , Labbé Antoine , Warnet Jean-Michel , Rat Patrice
Published: November 2008

Purpose: We investigated the effects of various rinsing and healing protocols on corneal wound repair and inflammation following alkali burn in rabbits. Methods: We conducted in vitro, in vivo and ex vivo studies. First, different rinse solutions were tested in vitro after incubation of ocular cells with methanol or NaOH. Cell viability was then assessed using the neutral red test (cytofluorometry). Second, NaOH was applied to rabbit corneas and associations of rinse solutions (NaCl 0.9% or controlled ionization marine solutions) with N-acetylcysteine or vegetable oils (from Calophyllum inophyllum and Aleurites moluccana) were tested in vivo. The regeneration of the corneal epithelium and the infiltration of inflammatory cells were evaluated using in vivo confocal microscopy and ex vivo histological cuts. Results: The association of a controlled ionization marine solution with 10% C. inophyllum oil and 90% A. moluccana oil induced regeneration of the corneal epithelium and a decrease in inflammatory cells. Conclusions: Irrigation with marine solution followed by treatment with a mixture of C. inophyllum and A. moluccana oils is a promising treatment for ocular burns.
Long-Term Response to Daily Low-Dose Subcutaneous Interferon-α2b in a Patient with Pretreated Metastatic Uveal Melanoma in the Liver and Lung
Authors: Vihinen Pia , Pyrhönen Seppo
Published: November 2008

Uveal melanoma is the most common primary intraocular malignancy in adults. Localized tumors are often curable by local therapy, but about 50% of patients develop a relapse with metastatic disease, particularly in the liver. Mortality rate after detected liver metastases remains high, while systemic therapies usually provide marginal benefit. Melanomas are hypervascular tumors, and agents with antiangiogenic activities have been studied as palliative treatment. Interferon-alpha-2b (IFN-α2b) has antiangiogenic activity when administered at low doses. We describe a patient who has received low-dose subcutaneous IFN-α2b (0.9 MIU, tid) continuously for years and gained stabilization of lung and liver metastases, which had previously progressed during earlier systemic therapies.
The Short Version of the Borderline Symptom List (BSL-23): Development and Initial Data on Psychometric Properties
Authors: Bohus Martin , Kleindienst Nikolaus , Limberger Matthias F. , Stieglitz Rolf-Dieter , Domsalla Melanie , Chapman Alexander L. , Steil Regina , Philipsen Alexandra , Wolf Martina
Published: November 2008

Background: The full version of the Borderline Symptom List (BSL; for clarification now labeled BSL-95) is a self-rating instrument for specific assessment of borderline-typical symptomatology. The BSL-95 items are based on criteria of the DSM-IV, the revised version of the Diagnostic Interview for Borderline Personality Disorder, and the opinions of both clinical experts and borderline patients. The BSL-95 includes 95 items. In order to reduce patient burden and assessment time, a short version with 23 items (BSL-23) was developed. Methods: The development of the BSL-23 was based on a sample of 379 borderline patients, considering the items from the BSL-95 that had the highest levels of sensitivity to change and the highest ability to discriminate borderline patients from other patient groups. In a second step, the psychometric properties of the BSL-23 were investigated and compared with the psychometric properties of the BSL-95 in 5 different samples, including a total of 659 borderline patients. Results: In all of the samples, a high correlation of the sum score was found between the BSL-23 and the BSL-95 (range: 0.958–0.963). The internal consistency was high for both versions (BSL-23/Cronbach’s α: 0.935–0.969; BSL-95/Cronbach’s α: 0.977–0.978). Both BSL-23 and BSL-95 clearly discriminated borderline personality disorder patients from patients with an axis I diagnosis (mean effect sizes were 1.13 and 0.96 for the BSL-23 and BSL-95, respectively). In addition, comparisons before and after 3 months of dialectical behavior therapy revealed a numerically larger effect size for the BSL-23 (d = 0.47) compared to the BSL-95 (d = 0.38). Conclusion: The results indicate that the BSL-23 is an efficient and convenient self-rating instrument that displays good psychometric properties comparable to those of the BSL-95. The BSL-23 also demonstrated sensitivity to the effects of therapy.
Swiss Multicenter Study Evaluating the Efficacy, Feasibility and Safety of Peginterferon-Alfa-2a and Ribavirin in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C in Official Opiate Substitution Programs
Authors: Fried Ronald , Monnat Martine , Seidenberg André , Oppliger Robert , Schmid Patrick , Herold Markus , Isler Marc , Broers Barbara , Kölliker Christoph , Schönbucher Peter , Frei Markus , Huber Milo
Published: November 2008

Background: Though patients in opiate substitution programs are commonly infected with HCV, due to safety and efficacy concerns, they are rarely treated with interferon and ribavirin. Methods: In a multicenter study, HCV-infected patients in opiate maintenance treatment programs received 180 μg pegylated interferon-alfa-2a once weekly, plus daily ribavirin for 24 weeks (genotypes 2, 3), or 48 weeks (genotypes 1, 4). Results: Of the 67 patients enrolled, 31 (46%) had HCV genotypes 1 or 4, and 36 (54%) had genotypes 2 or 3. Intent-to-treat analysis showed end-of-treatment virologic response in 75% of patients (81% of genotypes 2 or 3; 65% of genotypes 1 or 4), and a sustained virologic response in 61% of patients (72% of genotypes 2 or 3; 48% of genotypes 1 or 4). Fifteen patients (22%) did not complete the study, in 5 (8%) cases because of severe adverse events. Conclusions: Drug users with chronic HCV infection, regularly attending an opiate maintenance program in which close collaboration between hepatologists/internists and addiction specialists is assured, can be treated effectively and safely with pegylated interferon-alfa-2a and ribavirin. Treatment results are very similar to those in other patient groups, and thus therapy should also be considered for this population.
Animal Bocaviruses: A Brief Review
Authors: Manteufel Jill , Truyen Uwe
Published: November 2008

The recently discovered human Bocavirus has been preliminary classified into the genus Bocavirus of the family Parvoviridae. Animal bocaviruses have been known in veterinary medicine since the early 1960s. This paper reviews the current knowledge about the two eponymous members of the genus: bovine parvovirus (BPV) and canine minute virus (CnMV). In contrast to other parvoviruses, bocaviruses contain a third open reading frame in the mid of the genome encoding for a highly phosphorylated non-structural protein, NP1, whose function has not yet been determined. The VP1-unique region of BPV and CnMV contains a phospholipase A2 sequence motif. Both viruses cause diseases of the gastrointestinal and respiratory tract and are known to infect fetuses and to cause reproductive disorders. Especially young animals suffer from disease, whereas in adults subclinical infection is common. Clinical signs include diarrhea, vomiting, dyspnea, embryonic/fetal death after transplacental infection early and abortion late in gestation. Both viruses have in common that they are widespread in their host species as worldwide serosurveys indicate. For BPV it has been shown that sialated glycoproteins mediate hemagglutination reaction and function as receptor for virus attachment on permissive cells.
Short-Term Safety and Efficacy of a Single Intravitreal Bevacizumab Injection for the Management of Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy
Authors: Song Ji Hun , Byeon Suk Ho , Lee Sung Chul , Koh Hyoung Jun , Kwon Oh Woong
Published: November 2008

Aims: To evaluate the short-term safety and efficacy of a single intravitreal bevacizumab injection in patients with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV). Methods: The records of patients treated with intravitreal bevacizumab for PCV were retrospectively reviewed. All patients were evaluated by complete ophthalmic examination, optical coherence tomography and fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography. Changes in visual acuity and central retinal thickness (CRT) over 3 months were the main outcome measures. Results: Nineteen eyes of 18 patients were included. No serious ocular or systemic adverse events were observed. The median baseline visual acuity and CRT were 20/100 and 230 μm, respectively. After 1 month, there was no significant improvement in median visual acuity (20/80+1; p = 0.055), but median CRT had decreased significantly (160 μm; p < 0.001). After 3 months (data available for 17 eyes), both median visual acuity (20/63–2; p = 0.001) and CRT (190 μm; p = 0.007) showed significant improvements over baseline values. Conclusions: Intravitreal bevacizumab therapy for PCV was well tolerated over the 3-month follow-up period. Short-term results are promising, but further studies are necessary to evaluate long-term efficacy.
A Comparative View on Trace Elements and Growth
Authors: Kirchgessner M. , Roth H.-P. , Spoerl R. , Schnegg A. , Kellner R.J. , Weigand E.
Published: November 2008

The term ‘essentiality’ of trace elements is interpreted. The major human diseases due to trace element deficiency (Fe, Cu, Zn, Cr) are briefly considered. In growing animals the first clinical deficiency symptom most often is a growth retardation. In order to diagnose a deficient situation before the manifestation of clinical symptoms, model studies with growing animals are presented to show criteria that respond sensitively even to suboptimum intake of trace elements (Zn, Cu, Fe, Ni). Activity measurements of enzymes and hormones are found suitable. During the phase of reproduction, which is closely associated with growth, the trace element concentration in milk may provide an additional diagnostic means. In conclusion, the problems of diagnosing the supply status are discussed. A possibility for determination of the trace element requirement is indicated.
Some Biochemical Aspects of Chronic Alcohol Intoxication
Authors: Pokrovsky A.
Published: November 2008

Pathways of ethanol transformation and its respective metabolic disorders in the cell have been considered. One should note the role of acetaldehyde in the ethanol toxic effect. Acetaldehyde produces a significant effect upon the metabolism of biogenic amines in brain tissue. Chronic alcohol intoxication at a certain stage is connected with a considerable reduction in the ratio of alcohol dehydrogenase:acetaldehyde dehydrogenase (this ratio determines the severity of clinical signs in intoxication). The inhibition of acetaldehyde dehydrogenase activity is an enzymological base of hallucinations and delirium tremens. The importance of the protective role of nutrition at chronic alcohol intoxication is shown.
Der Einfluss von Guarmehl in der Nahrung auf die Stickstoffbilanz, den Proteinstoffwechsel und die Transitzeit der Nahrung in Ratten
Authors: Harmuth-Hoene Anna-Elisabeth , Jakubick Vera , Schelenz Rieder
Published: November 2008

The addition of 5% gum guar to a diet containing 10% casein did not change the overall N retention of young rats but induced a significant shift in the N excretion from urine to feces, resulting in a markedly decreased apparent protein digestibility. The increase in total fecal dry matter over control values accounted for only 30% of the ingested gum guar implying that 70% was absorbed, possibly after being degraded by intestinal microorganisms. The elimination of 14C activity following oral application of 14C protein indicated an accelerated turnover of amino acids during the first 3 h. After 25 h no difference between experimental and control animals was evident with respect to 14C activity remaining in the carcass. The transit time of food, as determined by neutron activation analysis of an Ytterbium marker, was somewhat decreased in the presence of gum guar.
Proteomic Investigation in A549 Lung Cell Line Stably Infected by HPV16E6/E7 Oncogenes
Authors: Ciotti Marco , Marzano Valeria , Giuliani Laura , Nuccetelli Marzia , D’Aguanno Simona , Azzimonti Barbara , Bernardini Sergio , Perno Carlo Federico , Urbani Andrea , Favalli Cartesio , Federici Giorgio
Published: November 2008

Background: Data have accumulated implicating the involvement of oncogenic human papillomaviruses (HPVs) in bronchial carcinogenesis. We recently described the presence of oncogenic HPV transcripts in non-small cell lung cancers. Objective: To investigate the role of oncogenic HPVs in lung carcinogenesis. Material and Methods: The lung cell line A549 stably infected with HPV16E6, HPV16E7 and HPVE6/E7 constructs was used to investigate the protein profile changes associated with the expression of these oncogenes. Replicated two-dimensional gel electrophoresis gels from uninfected and stably HPV16E6-, E7-, and E6/E7-infected A549 cells were compared for changes in protein profile. Protein identification was achieved by peptide mass fingerprinting by MALDI-TOF-MS and nLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS/MS peptide ladder sequencing. Results: We identified 17 different polypeptides whose average normalized spot intensity was statistically significant (p < 0.05) and differed by 2-fold. Relationships between differentially expressed proteins and the HPV-induced infection mechanism have been clustered by knowledge-base database functional association network analysis. Conclusion: The impact of Hsp27, annexin III, annexin IV, Gp96 and TPT1 on the cellular response mechanism to HPV infection is presented and discussed.
Plasma Placental Lactogen in Pregnancy
Authors: Raghuramulu N.
Published: November 2008

Plasma placental lactogen (HPL) and urinary oestrogen levels were investigated in pregnant women belonging to low and high socio-economic groups. Plasma HPL levels increased progressively with increasing gestation in women of both the socio-economic groups. The mean values in the two groups were not statistically different at any period of gestation. No correlation was observed between the birth weight of the infant and the maternal plasma placental lactogen levels at term. A positive correlation was observed between urinary oestrogen excretion and plasmaHPL concentration.
Comparative Studies in Obese Subjects Fed Carbohydrate-Restricted and High Carbohydrate 1,000-Calorie Formula Diets
Authors: Rabast U. , Kasper H. , Schönborn J.
Published: November 2008

45 obese subjects were fed a high-carbohydrate, relatively low-fat, or a low-carbohydrate, relatively high-fat 1,000-calorie (4.14MJ) formula diet. The diet provided for an isoenergetic substitution of 170 g of carbohydrates for 75 g of fat. Weight reduction up to day 30 was significantly higher in the subjects on the carbohydrate-restricted diet. There were no significant differences between the water and electrolyte balances. The mean total weight reduction achieved on the high-carbohydrate diet was 9.8 ± 4.5 kg with a mean daily weight loss of 298 ± 80 g, while the corresponding values on the carbohydrate-restricted diet were 14 ± 7.2 kg and 362 ± 91 g/day, respectively.
Hydrogen Ion Production Secondary to Metabolism of Sulfur-Amino Acids and Organic Acids
Authors: Chan James C.M.
Published: November 2008

The rate of acid production in infants and young children was quoted to be 1–2 mEq/kg/day but in fact, the sole reference used in all these instances did not permit such quantitation. In order to evaluate the rate of endogenous acid production, we applied the quantitative technique of Lennon et al. in the following normal subjects, where column A represents hydrogen ion released from metabolism of sulfur-containing amino acids; column B represents hydrogen ion released from incomplete oxidation of organic acids; the sum of A and B gives an estimation of endogenous net acid production (NAP):AgenABNAPNAP
Nutritional Evaluation of Low-Glucosinolate Rapeseed Meals Obtained by Various Processes
Authors: Mukherjee K.D. , Mangold H.K. , El Nockrashy A.S.
Published: November 2008

Defatted meals were prepared from two new varieties of rapeseed, the ‘high-glucosinolate’ variety, Brassica napus, Lesira, and the ‘low-glucosinolate’ variety, Brassica napus, Erglu, by each of the following processes: (1) defatting of the ground seed with hexane; (2) extraction of the myrosinase-deactivated ground seed with 70% aqueous acetone for the removal of glucosinolates followed by defatting with pure acetone, and (3) autolysis of the ground seed for the decomposition of glucosinolates followed by defatting and simultaneous removal of the decomposition products with hexane. The defatted meals obtained after extraction with aqueous acetone or autolysis contain very little glucosinolates and their degradation products as compared to those obtained by defatting with hexane only. The contents of available lysine and of phytates in the meals are, to some extent, affected by the treatment for the removal of glucosinolates. The rapeseed meals were fed at different levels to protein-depleted chicks and weanling rats. The animals fed low-glucosinolate meals prepared both from high-glucosinolate and low-glucosinolate varieties of rapeseed gave superior performance with regard to the feed conversion and protein efficiency ratio as compared to the animals fed the corresponding meals which were obtained simply by defatting the seeds with hexane. The levels of thyroxine (T4)and triiodothyronine (T3) in the serum of rats fed low-glucosinolate meals indicated normal function of the thyroid, whereas those in rats fed high-glucosinolate meals revealed hypo-thyroidism of the animals.
Short-Term Effect of Zinc Sulphate on Plasma and Hepatic Concentrations of Vitamins A and E in Normal Weanling Rats
Authors: Ette S.I. , Basu T.K. , Dickerson J.W.T.
Published: November 2008

In normal weanling male rats, the intraperitoneal administration of zinc sulphate (ZnSO4) resulted in a decreased hepatic and an increased plasma concentration of vitamin A after 2 h. In an in vitro study, the vitamin A concentrations of liver homogenates were markedly increased when homogenized livers were treated with ZnSO4. ZnSO4, however, did not show any effect on plasma and liver concentrations of vitamin E. These results indicate that zinc may be specifically involved in mobilizing vitamin A from liver to the circulation of normal animals within a short period. The trace element, therefore, could be used not only to treat cases of depressed vitamin A in plasma but also to treat hepatic toxicity from hypervitaminosis A.
Iron Absorption from Hemiglobin (Stable Oxidation Product of Hemoglobin) in Relation to the Dose in Subjects with Normal and Depleted Iron Stores
Authors: Gabbe E.E. , Heinrich H.C. , Brüggemann J. , Pfau A.A.
Published: November 2008

The dose relationship of hemiglobin iron absorption has been investigated in subjects with normal and depleted iron stores and was found to fit a linear regression in a bilogarithmic presentation of hemiglobin iron dose and iron absorption. Identical regression coefficients but different intercepts of regression were estimated for subjects with normal and depleted iron stores indicating a constant proportional increase of hemiglobin iron absorption in subjects with depleted iron stores in the full dose range of 0.10–50 mg hemiglobin iron.
Transcription of Rat Liver Chromatin by Escherichia coli RNA Polymerase: Template Properties after Protein Restriction
Authors: Andersson Marianne , Näslund Per , von der Decken Alexandra
Published: November 2008

Transcription was determined in liver chromatin from rats fed for 6 days, an optimal (20%) or suboptimal (3%) amount of high-quality protein. Transcription by Escherichia coli RNA polymerase (EC 2.7.7.6) was lower after prolonged incubation with chromatin from rats fed 3% as compared with 20% protein. Differences were detected in the transcripts of the two types of chromatin after analysis by sucrose density gradient centrifugation. But no measurable differences were found in the melting profiles at low ionic strength of the two chromatin preparations. Transcription per milligram chromatin DNA was 25-fold higher using E. coli RNA polymerase instead of rat liver RNA polymerase II. The use of UTP as radioactive precursor in the absence of ATP, GTP and CTP resulted in a low labelling of RNA. One [γ32P]UTP nucleotide was incorporated/8 UMP nucleotides. The product obtained was sensitive to ribonuclease treatment. In the presence of ATP, GTP and CTP [γ-32P]UTP nucleotide incorporation was reduced and that of UMP nucleotide was increased giving a ratio of 1:188.
Zur Aktivität verschiedener Dehydrogenasen und der alkalischen Phosphatase bei Manganmangel
Authors: Heiseke D. , Kirchgessner M.
Published: November 2008

The enzyme activities of the isocitrate, glucose-6-phosphate and malate dehydrogenases and of malic enzyme in liver, of lactate dehydrogenase in serum, and of alkaline phosphatase in bone and serum were determined in early-weaned rats given different Mn supplies. The activities of malate dehydrogenase were reduced by 16 and 18% during suboptimum and deficient Mn supply, respectively, the values of alkaline phosphatase in serum and bone were elevated by 29 and 35%, respectively. The enzyme values of the glucose-6-phosphate and lactate dehydrogenases were elevated only during Mn deficiency (by 40 and 65%, respectively), while a suboptimum Mn supply had no noticeable influence on these enzymes. The activities of isocitrate dehydrogenase and of malic enzyme, which were described to be activated by Mn++ in vitro, did not respond in vivo to Mn deficiency.
Identification of Antimicrobial Alpha-Hydroxyacids in Lactobacillus Plantarum-Fermented Animal Protein
Authors: Hietala Pentti.K. , Westermarck H.W. , Jaarma Maire
Published: November 2008

During the fermentation of animal protein by Lactobacillus plantamm, highly volatile and less volatile antimicrobial substances are formed. The antimicrobial effect of the latter fraction depends on the content of Α-hydroxyacids in the fermentation product. These acids were isolated from the fermentation mixture and identified by chemical methods. The main components are racemic forms of lactic, Α-hydroxyisovaleric and Α-hydroxyisocaproic acids.
The Effects of Dietary Sucrose and Streptozotocin-Diabetes on Blood and Liver Constituents
Authors: Kang S.S.
Published: November 2008

The levels of ATP, ADP, AMP, inorganic phosphate and 2,3-DPG have been determined in blood and liver of normal and streptozotocin-diabetic rats maintained for up to 11 months on a diet in which the sole carbohydrate source was either starch or sucrose. The feeding of sucrose to normal rats did not significantly alter the adenine nucleotide or phosphate content of the liver and blood. The diabetic state caused a reduction in the ATP, and an increase in AMP and phosphate content of the liver. The feeding of sucrose to the diabetic animals increased the blood phosphate level. The erythrocyte 2,3-DPG content was unaffected by the alterations of ATP and phosphate levels or by the diabetes.
Über die cholesterinsenkende Wirkung der einzelligen Grünalge Scenedesmus acutus 276–3a
Authors: Rolle Ingrid , Pabst Wolfgang
Published: November 2008

In former experiments we found that the extent of experimentally induced hypercholesterolemia in male Sprague-Dawley rats was significantly reduced by incorporation of 20% Scenedesmus powder in the diet. This paper reports on the localization of the activity in Scenedesmus powder following extraction of hydrophilic and lipophilic fractions. The fractions obtained by hot water treatment and chloroform-methanol extraction and the remaining extracted algae were incorporated in the standard diet in amounts corresponding to 20% Scenedesmus powder. In animals fed on the standard diet + 3% cholesterol for 6 weeks, the average concentration of blood plasma cholesterol increased from 2.0 to 3.5 mmol/l. The average cholesterol level in animals receiving the different algae extracts + 3% cholesterol amounted to between 2.1 and 2.9 mmol/l. The hot water extracted algae material held the plasma cholesterol levels in cholesterol-stressed animals at normal values. The content of plasma triglyceride in animals receiving the different fractions was lowered by 35–55% in nearly all groups. In cholesterol-stressed animals the excessive deposition of cholesterol in the liver was reduced by untreated algal powder as well as algal material extracted with water or chloroform/methanol. The decrease in liver cholesterol amounted to 50%.
The Effect of Some N Solutions for Parenteral Nutrition on Gastric and Pancreatic Secretion
Authors: Šťastná R. , Skála I. , Hrubá F. , Shlygin G.K. , Sysoev Y.
Published: November 2008

In patients without pancreatic disease Aminofusin L forte infused for 1 h did not stimulate gastric or pancreatic secretion. On the other hand, infusion of casein hydrolysate led to a significant increase in the concentration and total output of HCl.4 h intravenous infusion of Aminofusin L forte caused a transient but significant rise of the bicarbonate concentration, amylase activity and above all trypsin activity and output. The results show that N solutions used for parenteral protein nutrition influence in a different way both gastric and pancreatic secretion.
Caregiver Burden among Caregivers of Koreans with Dementia
Authors: Kim Moon-Doo , Hong Seong-Chul , Lee Chang-In , Kim Su-Young , Kang Im-Ok , Lee Sang-Yi
Published: November 2008

Background: Most studies on caregiver burden have been conducted in Western countries, while few studies on the correlates of caregiver burden have been performed in Korea. Objective: To suggest better policies for the care of dementia patients by using a nationwide database to identify factors that affect caregiver burden in Korea. Methods: The database of the Korean National Health Insurance (KNHI) and National Medical Aid (NMA) programs, which covers all Koreans, was used. A sample of 609 dementia patients and their caregivers was selected from a total of 85,281 dementia patients in 2004 and interviewed to evaluate the total cost of care and caregiver burden. Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis was then performed to identify significant independent predictors of caregiver burden. Results: Among caregiver-related factors, caregiver burden was higher in those who were female, had a history of home care during the previous year, and had less education. Among patient-related factors, poor ADL/IADL function was significant. The most interesting result was that subjective sense of socioeconomic status (good/fair/poor) was a stronger predictor of caregiver outcome than actual economic costs. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that interventions to assist patients with dementia should focus on female caregivers, especially those considered likely to be suffering from an economic burden. Interventions should also aim to improve the ADL and IADL capacities of patients.