bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Osteomyelitis secondary to trauma involving the proximal end of the radius in horses: five cases (1987–2001)
Authors: Swinebroad Eric L. , Dabareiner Robin M. , Swor Tamara M. , Carter G. Kent , Watkins Jeffrey P. , Walker Michael , Schmitz David G. , Honnas Clifford M.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine clinical, radiographic, and scintigraphic abnormalities in and treatment and outcome of horses with trauma-induced osteomyelitis of the proximal aspect of the radius.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—5 horses.

Procedure—Data collected from the medical records included signalment; history; horse use; degree of lameness; radiographic, ultrasonographic, and scintigraphic findings; treatment; and outcome.

Results—Duration of lameness prior to referral ranged from 14 to 60 days. Mean severity of lameness was grade 3 of 5, and all horses had a single limb affected. All horses had signs of pain during elbow joint manipulation and digital palpation over the lateral aspect of the proximal end of the radius. Radiographic lesions consisted of periosteal proliferation, osteolysis, and subchondral bone lysis. Scintigraphy in 3 horses revealed intense pharmaceutical uptake diffusely involving the proximal end of the radius. Two horses had sepsis of the elbow joint. All horses were treated with antimicrobials long-term; 1 horse was also treated by local perfusion of the radial medullary cavity through an indwelling cannulated screw. At follow-up, all horses had returned to their previous function.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that osteomyelitis of the proximal end of the radius can result from a traumatic injury to the antebrachium. Because lesions may be an extension of septic arthritis, a thorough examination of the wound area and elbow joint is recommended. Prolonged systemic antimicrobial treatment can result in a successful outcome. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:486–491)
Ultrasound measurement of sole horn thickness in trimmed claws of dairy cows
Authors: Amstel Sarel R. van , Palin Frances L. , Rorhbach Barton W. , Shearer Jan K.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether ultrasound could be used to measure sole horn thickness in dairy cattle after claw trimming with an adaptation of the Dutch method.

Design—Case series.

Animals—24 adult Holstein dairy cows.

Procedure—Cows were restrained in a standing position, and claws were trimmed with an adaptation of the Dutch trimming method. B-mode ultrasonography was then performed. The transducer was placed on the sole just caudal to the apex of the toe and immediately medial and parallel to the abaxial white zone. The inner margin of the sole was identified as a thin hyperechoic line. Soles were considered to be too thin if sole horn thickness, determined by use of ultrasonography, was < 5 mm.

Results—Sole horn, underlying soft tissues, and the distal surface of the third phalanx were imaged in 151 claws. The inner margin of the sole could not be identified in 4 claws, and 37 claws could not be imaged because cows collapsed in the restraining chute. Mean ± SD sole thickness for all claws was 7.1 ± 1.3 mm. Only 1 sole was < 5 mm thick. The lateral front claws were significantly thicker than the medial hind claws.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that ultrasound imaging can be used to determine sole thickness in dairy cattle after routine claw trimming. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:492–494)
Effect of dental floating on the rostrocaudal mobility of the mandible of horses
Authors: Carmalt James L. , Townsend Hugh G. G. , Allen Andrew L.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate the effect of dental floating on the position of the mandible relative to the maxilla (a measure of rostrocaudal mobility [RCM] of the mandible) during extension and flexion of the head of horses.

Design—Randomized controlled blinded trial.

Animals—59 horses housed in 1 barn.

Procedure—Horses were formally randomized into a treatment (n = 33) or control (26) group. All horses were sedated, and the distance between rostral portions of the upper and lower incisor arcades were determined with the head fully extended and flexed at the poll (the difference in measurements represented the RCM of the mandible). The oral cavity was examined. For the treatment group, dental floating was performed, and the incisor arcade measurements were repeated.

Results—Dental correction resulted in a significant increase in RCM of the mandible in 31 of 33 horses. The mobility was greater in heavy horses than that detected in other breed classifications. Age and number of dental lesions did not significantly affect mobility before or after dental floating.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Dental floating increased RCM of the mandible, but measurement of this variable was not an indicator of the number or extent of dental lesions, and no specific dental abnormality appeared to significantly affect RCM of the mandible in horses. In horses, measurement of RCM of the mandible can be used as a guide to determine whether dental correction is necessary; after dental floating, it can be used to ensure that irregularities of the occlusal surface have been corrected. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:666–669)
Carcinoma of the apocrine glands of the anal sac in dogs: 113 cases (1985–1995)
Authors: Williams Laurel E. , Gliatto John M. , Dodge Richard K. , Johnson Jeffrey L. , Gamblin Rance M. , Thamm Douglas H. , Lana Susan E. , Szymkowski Mary , Moore Antony S.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To characterize the signalment, clinical signs, biological behavior, and response to treatment of carcinoma of the apocrine glands of the anal sac in dogs.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—113 dogs with histologically confirmed carcinoma of the apocrine glands of the anal sac.

Procedure—Data on signalment, clinical signs, and staging were reviewed and analyzed along with treatment modality for potential association with survival time.

Results—Sex distribution was approximately equal (54% female, 46% male). One hundred four dogs underwent treatment consisting of surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or multimodal treatment. Median survival for treated dogs was 544 days (range, 0 to 1,873 days). Dogs treated with chemotherapy alone had significantly shorter survival (median, 212 days) than those receiving other treatments (median, 584 days). Dogs not treated with surgery had significantly shorter survival (median, 402 days) than those that underwent surgery as part of their treatment (median, 548 days). Dogs with tumors ≥ 10 cm2had significantly shorter survival (median, 292 days) than dogs with tumors ≥ 10 cm2(median, 584 days). Hypercalcemia was identified in 27% (n = 29) of dogs, and those dogs had significantly shorter survival (median, 256 days), compared with those that were normocalcemic (median, 584 days). Dogs with pulmonary metastasis had significantly shorter survival (median, 219 days) than dogs without evidence of pulmonary metastasis (median, 548 days).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Unlike most previous reports, this study revealed an approximately equal sex distribution, and results suggest a more favorable prognosis. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223: 825–831)
Risk factors for atrial fibrillation during racing in slow-finishing horses
Authors: Ohmura Hajime , Hiraga Atsushi , Takahashi Toshiyuki , Kai Makoto , Jones James H.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF) immediately after racing among racehorses that finished well behind the winners and examine potential risk factors for AF in these horses.

Design—Case-control study.

Animals—39,302 racehorses representing 404,090 race starts in races sanctioned by the Japan Racing Association between 1988 and 1997.

Procedure—Horses that finished ≥ 4 (turf races) or 5 (dirt races) seconds behind the winner or that did not complete the race were examined for AF within 5 minutes after the race. Logistic regression andχ2analyses were used to determine whether sex, age, race distance, race surface, year, or development of epistaxis was associated with development of AF.

Results—Estimated minimum frequency of AF was 0.03% (123 instances of AF following 404,090 race starts), and estimated minimum prevalence of AF among racehorses was 0.29% (115 horses with AF among 39,302 racehorses). Estimated frequency of AF among horses that finished slowly or did not finish was 1.39% (120 instances of AF among 8,639 examinations), and estimated prevalence of AF in horses that finished slowly was 1.23% (92 instances of AF among 7,500 horses) or 1.01% when only the first time a horse finished slowly was considered (76 instances of AF among 7,500 horses). Atrial fibrillation was paroxysmal in most horses. Among horses that finished slowly, 4-year-old and older horses and horses that raced on turf were more likely to develop AF.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that the likelihood of AF among racehorses that finish slowly is related to age and racing surface. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:84–88)
Comparison of the retrobulbar and Peterson nerve block techniques via magnetic resonance imaging in bovine cadavers
Authors: Pearce Simon G. , Kerr Carolyn L. , Bouré Ludovic P. , Thompson Kerry , Dobson Howard
Published: January 2006

Objective—To use magnetic resonance (MR) imaging
to describe and compare the anatomic distribution of
a lipid contrast medium injected via the retrobulbar
and Peterson nerve block techniques in heads of
bovine cadavers.

Design—Original study.

Sample—5 grossly normal heads obtained from cattle
at necropsy.

Procedure—Standardized techniques for the modified
retrobulbar and Peterson nerve blocks were
established. Each cadaver had 1 treatment performed
on a randomly selected side of the head; the second
treatment was performed on the alternate side of the
head. Injections were performed with canola oil,
which is an MR-positive contrast medium. Images of
heads in the transverse and dorsal planes were
obtained with a 3.0 Tesla short-bore MR system.

Results—The retrobulbar technique was characterized
by widespread distribution of the contrast medium
around the periorbital structures; further distribution
of the medium was detected along the optic
nerve and in the ethmoid turbinates and nasopharynx.
After the Peterson nerve block technique, contrast
medium was repeatedly located in the pterygopalatine
fossa, but distribution to surrounding structures
was minimal.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicate
that the retrobulbar injection technique results in
a greater distribution of contrast medium to the target
nerves and surrounding structures, compared with
that achieved via the Peterson nerve block technique.
This may explain the previously reported clinical
impression that the retrobulbar block is more reliable
than the Peterson nerve block but is associated with
a greater risk of complications. (J Am Vet Med Assoc
2003;223:852–855)
Effect of vaccination against feline immunodeficiency virus on results of serologic testing in cats
Authors: Levy Julie K. , Crawford P. Cynda , Slater Margaret R.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the effect of vaccination against FIV on results of serologic assays for FIV infection.

Design—Prospective clinical trial.

Animals—26 specific-pathogen-free cats, 102 laboratory- reared cats (42 unvaccinated and uninfected, 41 vaccinated and uninfected, and 19 infected with FIV), and 22 client-owned cats infected with FIV.

Procedure—To determine the onset and duration of anti-FIV antibody production in cats following vaccination with a whole-virus vaccine, serum was obtained from the 26 specific-pathogen-free cats prior to vaccination and weekly for 10 weeks, then monthly for 52 weeks, after vaccination; serum was tested for anti-FIV antibodies with lateral flow and microwell plate ELISAs. To determine the diagnostic performance of serologic assays for FIV infection, plasma from uninfected, unvaccinated cats; uninfected, vaccinated cats; and FIV-infected cats was tested for FIV antibodies with the 2 ELISAs, a western blot assay, and an immunofluorescence antibody assay and for FIV antigen with an ELISA.

Results—Anti-FIV antibodies were detected in all 26 vaccinated cats 1 year after vaccination. Sensitivity of the antibody assays for FIV infection was high (98% to 100%). Specificity was high in unvaccinated cats (90% to 100%) but poor in vaccinated cats (0% to 54%). None of the vaccinated or infected cats had detectable FIV antigen in plasma.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that vaccination against FIV causes false-positive results for at least 1 year with currently available serologic assays for FIV infection. Negative FIV antibody assay results are highly reliable for detection of uninfected cats, but positive results should be interpreted with caution. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2004;225:1558–1561)
Histologic comparison of skin biopsy specimens collected by use of carbon dioxide or 810-nm diode lasers from dogs
Authors: Rizzo Lillian B. , Ritchey Jerry W. , Higbee Russell G. , Bartels Kenneth E. , Lucroy Michael D.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To compare histologic artifacts caused by carbon dioxide (CO2) or 810-nm diode surgical lasers used to obtain small biopsy specimens of skin from healthy dogs.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—4 dogs.

Procedure—21 skin biopsy specimens were collected from each dog. Three biopsy specimens were obtained with a CO2or an 810-nm diode laser at 3 operating settings each, and 3 biopsy specimens were obtained with a 6-mm biopsy punch instrument (controls). After processing, biopsy specimens were examined for artifacts related to laser-tissue interactions. Microscopically visible char was measured from the lateral edge of each specimen obtained with a laser.

Results—There were no significant differences among mean char distances in biopsy specimens obtained with the CO2laser at various settings. Mean char distance was significantly greater in all skin biopsy specimens obtained with the diode laser, compared with those obtained with the CO2laser. Mean char distance was significantly greater in biopsy specimens obtained with the 810-nm diode laser at high power, compared with biopsy specimens obtained with the 810-nm diode laser at low power.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that the CO2laser caused less thermal injury at margins of skin biopsy specimens; therefore, if a surgical laser is used for removal of cutaneous masses or to obtain skin biopsy specimens, use of the CO2laser is recommended. Veterinarians performing a biopsy by using a surgical laser should be aware that laser-induced artifacts may render small biopsy specimens useless for providing accurate histologic diagnosis. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2004;225:1562–1566)
Effects of intravenous administration of dimethyl sulfoxide on cardiopulmonary and clinicopathologic variables in awake or halothane-anesthetized horses
Authors: Lin Hui-Chu , Johnson Christopher R. , Duran Sue H. , Waldridge Bryan M.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate the cardiopulmonary and clinicopathologic effects of rapid IV administration of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) in awake and halothaneanesthetized horses.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—6 adult horses.

Procedures—Horses received IV infusion of 5 L of a balanced electrolyte solution with and without 1 g/kg (0.45 g/lb) of 10% DMSO solution when they were awake and anesthetized with halothane (4 treatments/ horse). Arterial and venous blood samples were collected immediately before and at intervals during or after fluid administration and analyzed for blood gases and hematologic and serum biochemical variables, respectively. Heart rate, respiratory rate, and arterial blood pressure variables were recorded prior to, during, and after fluid administration.

Results—After administration of fluid with or without DMSO, changes in measured variables were detected immediately, but most variables returned to baseline values within 4 hours. One awake control horse had signs of anxiety; agitation and tachycardia were detected in 2 awake horses administered DMSO. These clinical signs disappeared when the rate of infusion was reduced. In anesthetized horses, increased concentrations of WBCs and plasma fibrinogen and serum creatine kinase activity persisted for 24 hours, which was related to the stress of anesthesia more than the effects of fluid administration.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Infusion of 5 L of balanced electrolyte solution with or without 10% DMSO induced minimal changes in cardiopulmonary function and clinicopathologic variables in either awake or halothane-anesthetized horses. Stress associated with anesthesia and recovery had a greater influence on measured variables in anesthetized horses than fluid administration. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2004;225:560–566)
Medical and behavioral surveillance of dogs deployed to the World Trade Center and the Pentagon from October 2001 to June 2002
Authors: Otto Cynthia M. , Downend Amanda B. , Serpell James A. , Ziemer Lisa S. , Saunders H. Mark
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate early medical and behavioral effects of deployment to the World Trade Center, Fresh Kills Landfill, or the Pentagon on responding search-and-rescue (SAR) dogs.

Design—Prospective double cohort study.

Animals—The first cohort included SAR dogs responding to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks (deployed), and the second cohort included SAR dogs trained in a similar manner but not deployed (controls). Enrollment occurred from October 2001 to June 2002.

Procedure—Dogs were examined by their local veterinarians; thoracic radiographs and blood samples were shipped to the University of Pennsylvania for analysis. Handlers completed medical and training histories and a canine behavioral survey.

Results—Deployed dogs were older and had more search experience than control dogs. Serum concentrations of globulin and bilirubin and activity of alkaline phosphatase were significantly higher in deployed dogs, independent of age and training. Despite significant differences in several blood parameters, values for both groups were within reference ranges. No pulmonary abnormalities were detected on radiographs, and no significant differences in behavior or medical history were detected between groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Within the first year following the September 11 attacks, there was no evidence that responding dogs developed adverse effects related to their work. Mild but significantly higher serum concentrations of globulin and bilirubin and activity of alkaline phosphatase in deployed dogs suggested higher antigen or toxin exposure. These dogs will be monitored for delayed effects for at least 3 years. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2004;225:861–867)
Determination of the dosage of clomipramine for the treatment of urine spraying in cats
Authors: King Jonathan N. , Steffan Jean , Heath Sarah E. , Simpson Barbara S. , Crowell-Davis Sharon L. , Harrington Louise J. M. , Weiss Alain-Bernard , Seewald Wolfgang
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the optimal dosage of clomipramine for the treatment of urine spraying in cats.

Design—Randomized controlled multicenter clinical trial.

Animals—67 neutered cats.

Procedure—Cats with a minimum 1-month history of spraying urine against vertical surfaces at least twice per week were randomly assigned to be treated with a placebo or with clomipramine at a dosage of 0.125 to 0.25 mg/kg (0.057 to 0.11 mg/lb), 0.25 to 0.5 mg/kg (0.11 to 0.23 mg/lb), or 0.5 to 1 mg/kg (0.23 to 0.45 mg/lb), PO, every 24 hours for up to 12 weeks. Owners of all cats were given information on behavioral treatment and environmental modification.

Results—Prior to treatment, mean number of urine spraying events ranged from 0.9 to 1.3 urine spraying events/d for the 4 groups, and mean percentage of days with urine spraying events ranged from 62% to 69%. All 3 dosages of clomipramine were associated with significant reductions in frequency of urine spraying. Sedation was the most common adverse effect and was identified in 27 of the 50 cats treated with clomipramine; however, treatment was not discontinued in any cat because of sedation.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results of the present study suggest that compared with a placebo, clomipramine significantly reduces the frequency of urine spraying in cats in terms of the number of urine spraying events per day and the number of days with urine spraying events. For cats with urine spraying, the recommended initial dosage of clomipramine is 0.25 to 0.5 mg/kg, PO, every 24 hours. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2004;225:881–887)
Outcome of cats with diarrhea and Tritrichomonas foetus infection
Authors: Foster Derek M. , Gookin Jody L. , Poore Matthew F. , Stebbins Marty E. , Levy Michael G.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the long-term outcome of cats infected withTritrichomonas foetusand identify treatment and management strategies influencing resolution of infection or associated diarrhea.

Design—Prospective study.

Sample Population—26 cats withT foetus-associated diarrhea at least 22 months prior to the study.

Procedure—A standardized survey regarding clinical course and management was administered to owners of cats withT foetusinfection and associated diarrhea. Fecal samples were obtained from each cat; the presence ofT foetuswas assessed via microscopic examination of smears, culture in commercial media, and polymerase chain reaction amplification ofT foetusrDNA involving species-specific primers.

Results—Survey responses were obtained from owners of all 26 cats. Twenty-three cats had complete resolution of diarrhea a median of 9 months after onset. Analysis of fecal samples obtained from 22 cats revealed persistentT foetusinfection in 12, with a median of 39 months after resolution of diarrhea. History of implementation of a dietary change, treatment with paromomycin, or higher numbers of cats in the household was associated with significantly longer duration of time to resolution of diarrhea.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested chronicT foetus-associated diarrhea in most cats is likely to resolve spontaneously within 2 years of onset. Chronic infection withT foetus(without clinical signs) after resolution of diarrhea appears to be common. Although often temporarily effective in decreasing severity of diarrhea, attempts to treat cats withT foetusinfection may result in prolongation of time to resolution of diarrhea. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2004;225:888–892)
Tripropyltin(IV) Complexes with some Selected Bioligands in 50 % V/V Dioxane/Water Mixture
Authors: Al‐Najjar Abdul Aziz , Mohamed Mahmoud M. A. , Shehata Mohamed R. , Shoukry Mohamed M.
Published: January 2006

The interaction of the tri‐n‐propyltin(IV) (TPT) with some selected bioligands having a variety of model functional groups were investigated using potentiometric technique at 25 °C and 0.1 M ionic strength in 50 % v/v dioxane/water mixture. TPT is hydrolyzed to give [(C3H7)3SnOH], [(C3H7)3Sn(OH)2]−, and [((C3H7)3Sn)2OH]+. Amino acids and DNA constituents form 1:1 and 1:2 complexes. Peptides form 1:1 complexes and the corresponding deprotonated amide species. The protonated complexes are formed with amino acids, peptides and some DNA constituents. The hydrolysis constants and the stepwise formation constants of the complexes formed in solution were calculated using the nonlinear least‐square program MINIQUAD‐75. The participation of different ligand functional groups in binding to organotin is discussed. The speciation diagrams of the various complex species were evaluated as a function of pH.
Functional role of the basal ganglia in the planning and execution of actions
Authors: Monchi Oury , Petrides Michael , Strafella Antonio P. , Worsley Keith J. , Doyon Julien
Published: January 2006

Objective

Recent studies of functional brain imaging have shown the involvement of the basal ganglia in executive processes such as planning and set‐shifting. However, the specific contributions of the striatum in those processes remain unknown. This study aimed to test the hypothesis that the caudate nucleus is primarily involved in the preparation of a novel action and not in set‐shifting per se.

Methods

In the present event‐related functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study, a new task was developed that permitted, for the first time, to distinguish between shifts in classification when the rule is implicitly given by the task from shifts that require cognitive comparison and planning.

Results

Significantly increased activity in the caudate nucleus and the putamen was observed only in conditions in which cognitive planning was required to perform a set‐shift, whereas significant activation was seen in the subthalamic nucleus (another region of the basal ganglia) in all shifting conditions whether or not planning was required.

Interpretation

We suggest that the caudate nucleus and the putamen are particularly important, respectively, in the planning and the execution of a self‐generated novel action, whereas the subthalamic nucleus may be required when a new motor program is solicited independently of the choice of strategy. Ann Neurol 2006;59:257–264
Genotypic and phenotypic spectrum of PANK2 mutations in patients with neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation
Authors: Hartig Monika B. , Hörtnagel Konstanze , Garavaglia Barbara , Zorzi Giovanna , Kmiec Tomasz , Klopstock Thomas , Rostasy Kevin , Svetel Marina , Kostic Vladimir S. , Schuelke Markus , Botz Evelyn , Weindl Adolf , Novakovic Ivana , Nardocci Nardo , Prokisch Holger , Meitinger Thomas
Published: January 2006

Objective

Neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation (NBIA) is a group of disorders characterized by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) changes in basal ganglia. Both missense and nonsense mutations have been found in such patients in a gene encoding the mitochondrial pantothenate kinase (PANK2).

Methods

We completed a mutation screen in 72 patients with the diagnosis NBIA based on clinical findings and radiological imaging. The entire coding region of the PANK2 gene (20p12.3) was investigated for point mutations and deletions.

Results

We uncovered both mutant alleles in 48 patients. Deletions accounted for 4% of mutated alleles. Patients with two loss‐of‐function alleles (n = 11) displayed symptoms always at an early stage of life. In the presence of missense mutations (n = 37), the age of onset correlated with residual activity of the pantothenate kinase. Progression of disease measured by loss of ambulation was variable in both groups. We did not observe a strict correlation between the eye‐of‐the‐tiger sign and PANK2 mutations. In 24 patients, no PANK2 mutation was identified.

Interpretation

Deletion screening of PANK2 should be part of the diagnostic spectrum. Factors other than enzymatic residual activity are determining the course of disease. There are strong arguments in favor of locus heterogeneity. Ann Neurol 2006;59:248–256
Waterproofing of carbon paper by plasma polymerization
Authors: Taniguchi Akira , Yasuda Kazuaki
Published: January 2006

Waterproof treatment by plasma polymerization was applied to the porous material of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). Carbon paper used for PEMFCs was waterproofed by the gas plasma of hexafluoropropylene (HFP) prior to binding to the polymer electrolyte membrane, Nafion®. A plasma‐polymerized HFP thin film on the surface of the carbon fiber increased the contact angle of the carbon paper. The inner surface of the carbon paper was also waterproofed as well as its outer surface. It was found from the fuel cell performance test that this waterproofing method of the carbon paper was effective in the high‐current density region where the condensed water product tends to accumulate. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100: 1748–1753, 2006
Fabrication and evaluation of some mechanical and electrical properties of jute‐biomass based hybrid composites
Authors: Mehta N. M. , Parsania P. H.
Published: January 2006

Hybrid composites based on bisphenol‐C‐formaldehyde resin and jute mat with rice, wheat, sugar cane, and jamun husks have been fabricated at 150°C under 30.4 MPa pressure for 2 h. The resin content in composites was 50% of fibers. Tensile strength, flexural strength, electric strength, and volume resistivity of hybrid composites have been evaluated and compared with those of jute‐bisphenol‐C‐formaldehyde composites. It is observed that the tensile strength of composites is found to decrease by 53–72%, which is mainly due to random orientation of sandwiched fibers. Flexural strength has increased by 53–153% except jute–rice husk composite for which it is decreased by 26%. A little change in dielectric breakdown strength (1.89–2.11 kV/mm) is found but volume resistivity of Jute–wheat husk and Jute–jamun husk composites has improved by 437–197% and it is slightly decreased(2.3–25.2%) for the remaining two composites. Thus, hybrid composites possess good mechanical and electrical properties signifying their importance in low strength and light weight engineering applications as well as low cost housing units such as partition and hard boards. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100: 1754–1758, 2006
Effect of millimeter wave irradiation on tumor metastasis
Authors: Logani Mahendra K. , Szabo Imre , Makar Vera , Bhanushali Ashok , Alekseev Stan , Ziskin Marvin C.
Published: January 2006

One of the major side effects of chemotherapy in cancer treatment is that it can enhance tumor metastasis due to suppression of natural killer (NK) cell activity. The present study was undertaken to examine whether millimeter electromagnetic waves (MMWs) irradiation (42.2 GHz) can inhibit tumor metastasis enhanced by cyclophosphamide (CPA), an anticancer drug. MMWs were produced with a Russian‐made YAV‐1 generator. Peak SAR and incident power density were measured as 730 ± 100 W/kg and 36.5 ± 5 mW/cm2, respectively. Tumor metastasis was evaluated in C57BL/6 mice, an experimental murine model commonly used for metastatic melanoma. The animals were divided into 5 groups, 10 animals per group. The first group was not given any treatment. The second group was irradiated on the nasal area with MMWs for 30 min. The third group served as a sham control for group 2. The fourth group was given CPA (150 mg/kg body weight, ip) before irradiation. The fifth group served as a sham control for group 4. On day 2, all animals were injected, through a tail vein, with B16F10 melanoma cells, a tumor cell line syngeneic to C57BL/6 mice. Tumor colonies in lungs were counted 2 weeks following inoculation. CPA caused a marked enhancement in tumor metastases (fivefold), which was significantly reduced when CPA‐treated animals were irradiated with MMWs. Millimeter waves also increased NK cell activity suppressed by CPA, suggesting that a reduction in tumor metastasis by MMWs is mediated through activation of NK cells. Bioelectromagnetics 27:258–264, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Competition between oxygen and nitrate respirations in continuous culture of Pseudomonas aeruginosa performing aerobic denitrification
Authors: Chen Fan , Xia Qing , Ju Lu‐Kwang
Published: January 2006

Continuous culture of P. aeruginosa was conducted with nitrate‐containing media under the dilution rates (D) of 0.026, 0.06, and 0.13/h and the dissolved oxygen concentrations (DO) of 0–2.2 mg/L. The bacterium performed simultaneous O2 and nitrate respiration in all of the systems studied. For each D, the (apparent) cell yield from glucose (YX/S) was lower at zero DO, but did not change substantially with non‐zero DO. In non‐zero DO systems, YX/S increased with increasing D, and when fit with a model considering cell death, gave the following parameters: maximum cell yield Y = 0.49, maintenance coefficient MS = 0.029 (/h), and cell decay constant kd = 0.014/h. The same model failed to describe the behaviors of zero‐DO systems, where neither glucose nor nitrate was limiting and the limiting factor(s) remained unknown. The cell yield from accepted electron (YX/e) was however relatively constant in all systems, and the energy yield per electron accepted via denitrification was estimated at ∼69% of that via O2 respiration. A closer examination revealed that increasing DO enhanced O2 respiration only at extremely low DO ( <0.05 mg/L), beyond which the increasing DO only slightly increased its weak inhibition on denitrification. While O2 was the preferred electron acceptor, the fraction of electrons accepted via denitrification increased with increasing D. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Conducting Poly(aniline) Nanotubes and Nanofibers: Controlled Synthesis and Application in Lithium/Poly(aniline) Rechargeable Batteries
Authors: Cheng Fangyi , Tang Wei , Li Chunsheng , Chen Jun , Liu Huakun , Shen Panwen , Dou Shixue
Published: January 2006

The primary aim of this work was to synthesize aligned perchloric‐acid‐doped poly(aniline) (HClO4‐doped PANI) nanotubes by a simple alumina template method and to investigate their application in lithium/poly(aniline) rechargeable batteries. Powder X‐ray diffraction analysis (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis were used to characterize the nanostructures obtained. The second aim addressed the preparation of HClO4‐doped PANI microspheres and nanofibers on a large scale through a modified spraying technique, since the template synthesis has limitations in mass production. The present synthesis methods are simple and can be extended to the preparation of a broad range of one‐dimensional conductive polymers. Furthermore, electrochemical measurements showed that the as‐prepared HClO4‐doped PANI nanotubes exhibit better electrode performances than their commercial counterparts because they possess more active sites, higher conductivity, and relative flexibility. This indicates that HClO4‐doped poly(aniline) nanomaterials are promising in the application of lithium/polymer rechargeable batteries.
Insertion, Reduction, and Carbon–Carbon Coupling Induced by Monomeric Aluminum Hydride Compounds Bearing Substituted Pyrrolyl Ligands
Authors: Lin Che‐Yu , Tsai Chia‐Fu , Chen Hsing‐Jen , Hung Chen‐Hsiung , Yu Ru‐Ching , Kuo Pei‐Cheng , Lee Hon Man , Huang Jui‐Hsien
Published: January 2006

A monomeric aluminum hydride complex bearing substituted pyrrolyl ligands, AlH[C4H3N(CH2NMe2)‐2]2 (1), was synthesized and structurally characterized. To further confirm the presence of AlH bonds, the compound AlD[C4H3N(CH2NMe2)‐2]2 ([D]1) was synthesized by reacting LiAlD4 with [C4H4N(CH2NMe2)‐2]. Compound 1 and [D]1 react with phenyl isothiocyanate yielding Al[C4H3N(CH2NMe2)‐2]2[η3‐SCHNPh] (2) and Al[C4H3N(CH2NMe2)‐2]2[η3‐SCDNPh] ([D]2) by insertion. The reactions of 1 with 9‐fluorenone and benzophenone generated the unusual aluminum alkoxide complexes 3 and 4, respectively, through intramolecular proton abstraction and C–C coupling. A mechanistic study shows that 9‐fluorenone coordinates to [D]1 and releases one equivalent of HD followed by C–C coupling and hydride transfer to yield the final product. Reduction of benzil with 1 affords aluminum enediolate complex 5 in moderate yield. Mechanistic studies also showed that the benzil was inserted into the aluminum hydride bond of [D]1 through hydroalumination followed by proton transfer to generate the final product [D]5. All new complexes have been characterized by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy and X‐ray crystallography.
Developing epidemic of melanoma in the hispanic population of California
Authors: Cockburn Myles G. , Zadnick John , Deapen Dennis
Published: January 2006

BACKGROUND

Hispanics comprise almost one‐third of the population of California, are the most rapidly increasing racial/ethnic group in the state, and represent almost one‐third of all Hispanics in the U.S. California has among the highest rates of melanoma in the world, yet little is known about trends in melanoma in its Hispanic population.

METHODS

Trends in invasive and in situ melanoma incidence data and melanoma mortality data, between 1988 and 2001, from the California Cancer Registry were analyzed. Trends in the Hispanic population were compared with those in the non‐Hispanic white population. Time trends in tumors of differing thicknesses and histology were assessed.

RESULTS

There was a statistically significant 1.8% per year increase in incidence of invasive melanomas among Hispanic males and a similar but nonstatistically significant increase in invasive melanoma among Hispanic females between 1988 and 2001. Among Hispanic males and females tumors thicker than 1.5 mm at presentation increased at 11.6% per year (95% confidence interval [CI], 8.1, 15.2) and 8.9% per year (95% CI, 4.7, 13.3), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Rates of invasive melanoma have increased markedly among Hispanics in California since 1988. In contrast to trends in the non‐Hispanic white population, increases in melanoma in Hispanics have been confined to thicker tumors, whose prognosis is poor. We recommend that efforts be undertaken immediately to target both primary and secondary melanoma prevention messages to Hispanic communities. Cancer 2006. © 2006 American Cancer Society.
Building bridges for personalization: A process model for marketing
Authors: Vesanen Jari , Raulas Mika
Published: January 2006

It has been suggested that personalization offers an avenue to improve marketing performance; however, there are several organizational and technical hurdles that hinder the efforts of marketers in capitalizing on it. This is largely because personalization has been executed as several disconnected campaigns and operations in many companies. Marketers also may have faced challenges posed by systems integration and organizational processes. In this article, we show how seeing personalization as a process helps marketers manage and execute it more effectively. A process view shows how the different phases of personalization—customer interactions, analyses of customer data, customization based on customer profiles, and targeting of marketing activities—are linked. Process analysis further identifies the key stumbling blocks that arise from ineffective integration of these phases.
Constitutive neuregulin‐1/ErbB signaling contributes to human vestibular schwannoma proliferation
Authors: Hansen Marlan R. , Roehm Pamela C. , Chatterjee Papri , Green Steven H.
Published: January 2006

Vestibular schwannomas (VSs) are benign tumors that arise from the Schwann cells (SCs) lining the vestibular nerve. VS cells survive and proliferate far from neurons and axonally derived growth factors. We have previously shown that VSs produce the glial growth factor, neuregulin‐1 (NRG1), and its receptors, ErbB2 and ErbB3. In the present work, we explore the contribution of constitutive NRG1:ErbB signaling to human VS cell proliferation. We confirm that human VSs, which express markers of immature and denervated SCs, also express endogenous NRG1 and activated ErbB2. We find that a blocking anti‐NRG1 antibody and trastuzumab (Herceptin®, HCN), a humanized anti‐ErbB2 inhibitory monoclonal antibody, effectively inhibit NRG1 induced SC proliferation. Treatment of primary VS cultures with anti‐NRG1 or HCN reduces cell proliferation in the absence of exogenous NRG1. Furthermore, conditioned medium from VS cell cultures contains NRG1 and stimulates SC proliferation in SC cultures, an effect that is inhibited by anti‐NRG1 and HCN. These data suggest an autocrine pathway of VS growth stimulation involving NRG and ErbB receptors. Inhibition of constitutive NRG:ErbB signaling reduces VS cell proliferation in vitro and may have therapeutic potential for patients with VSs. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reclassification of oligoastrocytomas by loss of heterozygosity studies
Authors: Eoli Marica , Bissola Lorena , Bruzzone Maria Grazia , Pollo Bianca , Maccagnano Carmelo , De Simone Tiziana , Valletta Lorella , Silvani Antonio , Bianchessi D , Broggi Giovanni , Boiardi Amerigo , Finocchiaro Gaetano
Published: January 2006

Oligoastrocytomas (OAs) are WHO grade II or III tumors composed of a mixture of 2 neoplastic cell types morphologically resembling the cells in oligodendrogliomas and diffuse astrocytomas. Investigations on the genetic profile of OAs may yield important information for their classification and help for their clinical management. We have studied, in 94 OAs (46 WHO grade II and 48 WHO grade III), the patterns of loss of heterozygosity (LOH) of 4 genomic regions: 1p, 19q, 17p and 10q. Results were as follows: LOH 1p was present in 46% of the tumors; LOH 19q in 45%; LOH 17p in 22%; LOH 10q in 16%. LOH 1p and 19q were associated in 32%, other LOH associations were rare (<3%). Patients had a median follow‐up of 30 months. Patients without LOH on 1p had shorter progression free survival than patients with LOH on 1p: 30 vs. 132 months, p < 0.0001. MRI indicated that tumors without LOH on 1p were often temporal (p < 0.02), and showed signal inhomogeneity on T1 and T2 images (p < 0.02) and contrast enhancement (p < 0.04). Thus, LOH on 1p identifies two subgroups of OAs. OAs without LOH on 1p behave like WHO grade II or III diffuse astrocytomas: they have shorter survival, MRI characteristics implying malignancy and genetic alterations associated with tumor progression. OAs with LOH on 1p, on the other hand, behave like WHO grade II or III oligodendrogliomas with 1p loss: they are associated with longer survival and do not have MRI or genetic alterations associated with malignancy. These findings suggest that the definition of OAs or mixed gliomas could be reshaped in agreement with the genetic information. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Alanine aminotransferase level as a predictor of hepatitis C virus‐associated hepatocellular carcinoma incidence in a community‐based population in Japan
Authors: Suruki Robert , Hayashi Katsuhiro , Kusumoto Kazunori , Uto Hirofumi , Ido Akio , Tsubouchi Hirohito , Stuver Sherri O.
Published: January 2006

We evaluated the utility of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) measurements in predicting the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in a cohort of 667 adults with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection from a community‐based population in Japan, between 1994 and 2003. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was used to describe the relationship between prediagnostic levels of ALT and the rate of HCC, after adjusting for age and gender; hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were obtained. Over an average of 8 years of follow‐up, 52 HCC cases were identified. A significant association between a 20 IU/L difference in higher ALT level and subsequent HCC incidence was observed (HR = 1.2; 95% CI: 1.1, 1.3). An abnormal ALT level (≥35 IU/L) increased the HCC rate by 4‐fold compared to a normal ALT level (HR = 4.1; 95% CI: 2.1, 8.0). Among 551 subjects with at least 4 repeated measurements of ALT, those with persistently abnormal ALT levels (n = 118) had a strong, significantly increased HCC rate compared to those with persistently normal ALT levels (n = 296) (HR = 23.2; 95% CI: 3.0, 178.5). This study demonstrates that elevated ALT levels, measured on an average of 8 years before HCC diagnosis, predict an increased rate of HCV‐associated HCC in a community‐based population and that utilizing serial measurements to identify persistent ALT abnormality may be useful in determining HCC risk. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Raman spectroscopy on cubic and hexagonal SrMnO3
Authors: Sacchetti A. , Baldini M. , Postorino P. , Martin C. , Maignan A.
Published: January 2006

We report on the first optical characterization of both cubic and hexagonal SrMnO3. Room‐temperature Raman spectra collected by means of a micro‐Raman spectrometer are shown. The spectrum of the cubic compound is characterized by weak and broad bands in agreement with group theory which predicts no Raman‐active phonons for this compound. On the other hand, the spectrum of the hexagonal compound shows six narrow peaks ascribed to one‐phonon processes. A complete polarization analysis of the spectra collected from a single crystallite allows us to completely assign the symmetries of the six observed peaks. Atomic displacements for all phonon peaks are also proposed. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Excitation Energy Transfer from Semi‐Conducting Polymer Nanoparticles to Surface‐Bound Fluorescent Dyes
Authors: Grigalevicius Saulius , Forster Michael , Ellinger Stefan , Landfester Katharina , Scherf Ullrich
Published: January 2006

Summary: The first examples of the dye‐coated semi‐conducting polymer nanoparticles as well as experiments to demonstrate the excitation energy transfer from the excited chromophor of the nanoparticle to the fluorescent dye are described. We have demonstrated that the blue fluorescence of the dye‐coated polyfluorene nanoparticles is only slightly quenched after dye deposition. However, a new emission band of the surface‐bound dye (Rhodamine 6G or Rhodamine TM) appears in the wavelength region of 530–600 nm. These results clearly indicate an effective excitation energy transfer from the excited PF chromophores to the fluorescent dye.

Emission spectra of PF2/6 nanoparticle dispersion and of Rhodamine 6G‐coated nanoparticle dispersion.

magnified image

Emission spectra of PF2/6 nanoparticle dispersion and of Rhodamine 6G‐coated nanoparticle dispersion.
Modified KdV equation with a source term in a bounded domain
Authors: Larkin N. A.
Published: January 2006

A mixed problem for the modified KdV equation in Q = (0,1) × (0,∞)

where a(t)>0, is considered. No restriction on the sign of d(t) is imposed. We prove the existence and uniqueness of strong and weak global solutions as well as the exponential decay of solutions as t→+∞. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Classical solvability of 1‐D Cahn–Hilliard equation coupled with elasticity
Authors: Pawłow Irena , Zaja̧czkowski Wojciech M.
Published: January 2006

In this paper, we prove the classical solvability of a nonlinear 1‐D system of hyperbolic–parabolic type arising as a model of phase separation in deformable binary alloys. The system is governed by the nonstationary elasticity equation coupled with the Cahn–Hilliard equation. The existence proof is based on the application of the Leray–Schauder fixed point theorem and standard energy methods. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Molecular characterization of a cDNA encoding vitellogenin in the banana shrimp, Penaeus (Litopenaeus) merguiensis and sites of vitellogenin mRNA expression
Authors: Phiriyangkul Pharima , Utarabhand Prapaporn
Published: January 2006

In order to determine the primary structure of banana shrimp, Penaeus merguiensis, vitellogenin (Vg), we previously purified vitellin (Vt) from the ovaries of vitellogenic females, and chemically analyzed the N‐terminal amino acid sequence of its 78 kDa subunit. In this study, a cDNA from this species encoding Vg was cloned based on the N‐terminal amino acid sequence of the major 78 kDa subunit of Vt and conserved sequences of Vg/Vt from other crustacean species. The complete nucleotide sequence of Vg cDNA was achieved by RT‐PCR and 5′ and 3′ rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) approaches. The full‐length Vg cDNA consisted of 7,961 nucleotides. The open reading frame of this cDNA encoding a precursor peptide was comprised of 2,586 amino acid residues, with a putative processing site, R‐X‐K/R‐R, recognized by subtilisin‐like endoproteases. The deduced amino acid sequence was obtained from the Vg cDNA and its amino acid composition showed a high similarity to that of purified Vt. The deduced primary structure, of P. merguiensis Vg was 91.4% identical to the Vg of Penaeus semisulcatus and was also related to the Vg sequences of six other crustacean species with identities that ranged from 86.9% to 36.6%. In addition, the amino acid sequences corresponding to the signal peptide, N‐terminal region and C‐terminal region of P. merguiensis Vg were almost identical to the same sequences of the seven other reported crustacean species. Results from RT‐PCR analysis showed that Vg mRNA expression was present in both the ovary and hepatopancreas of vitellogenic females but was not detected in other tissues including muscle, heart, and intestine of females or in the hepatopancreas of mature males. These results indicate that the Vg gene may be expressed only by mature P. merguiensis females and that both the ovary and hepatopancreas are possible sites for Vg synthesis in this species of shrimp. Mol. Reprod. Dev. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.