bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Reactivating and Therapeutic Efficacy of Two Salts of the Oxime HI‐6 against Tabun, Soman and Cyclosarin in Rats
Authors: Kassa Jiri , Jun Daniel , Kuca Kamil , Bajgar Jiri
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  The reactivating and therapeutic efficacy of two salts of the oxime HI‐6 (dichloride and dimethanesulphonate) against chosen nerve agents (tabun, soman and cyclosarin) was compared in rats. The potency of both salts of HI‐6 to decrease the acute toxicity of tabun, soman and cyclosarin was similar in nerve agent‐poisoned rats. While the potency of HI‐6 dichloride and HI‐6 dimethanesulphonate to counteract acute toxic effects of tabun is rather low, both salts of HI‐6 were able to decrease the acute toxicity of soman two times and acute toxicity of cyclosarin more than three times. The therapeutic efficacy of both salts of the oxime HI‐6 corresponds to their reactivating potency. While the reactivating efficacy of HI‐6 dichloride as well as HI‐6 dimethanesulphonate against tabun was negligible, their potency to reactivate soman‐inhibited acetylcholinesterase and cyclosarin‐inhibited acetylcholinesterase in peripheral (blood) and central (brain) compartment was relatively high. HI‐6 dichloride showed a somewhat higher potency to reactivate tabun‐inhibited acetylcholinesterase in brain, and soman‐inhibited acetylcholinesterase in blood and brain than HI‐6 dimethanesulphonate but the differences were not significant. Thus, the replacement of dichloride anion by dimethanesulphonate anion in the oxime HI‐6 does not influence the therapeutic and reactivating efficacy of the oxime HI‐6 against nerve agents. In addition, the higher solubility and stability of HI‐6 dimethanesulphonate in comparison with HI‐6 dichloride makes it possible to increase the dose and thus, the effectiveness of the oxime HI‐6 in the antidotal treatment of acute nerve agent poisonings.
Combination Therapy of Rosiglitazone, a Peroxisome Proliferator‐Activated Receptor‐γ Ligand, and NMDA Receptor Antagonist (MK‐801) on Experimental Embolic Stroke in Rats
Authors: Allahtavakoli Mohammad , Shabanzadeh Alireza , Roohbakhsh Ali , Pourshanazari Aliasghar
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ (PPAR‐γ) agonists have been found to have potent anti‐inflammatory actions and suggested as potential therapies for brain ischaemia. Glutamate is the most common excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system and is released excessively during ischaemia. Stroke therapy will require combinations of drug classes, because no single drug class has yet been proven efficacious in human beings. The present study was conducted to assess whether N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist (MK‐801) treatment can improve recovery from ischaemic brain injury and whether rosiglitazone, a PPAR‐γ ligand, can increase its neuroprotective effect in an embolic model of stroke. Stroke was induced in rats by embolizing a preformed clot into the middle cerebral artery. Rosiglitazone (0.1 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) and MK‐801 (0.1 mg/kg, intravenously) were injected immediately after embolization. Forty‐eight hours later, the brains were removed, sectioned and stained with triphenyltetrazolum chloride and analysed by a commercial image processing software programme. Rosiglitazone and MK‐801 alone or in combination decreased infarct volume by 49.16%, 50.26% and 81.32%, respectively (P < 0.001). Moreover, the combination therapy significantly decreased the infarct volume when compared to any drug used alone (P < 0.05). MK‐801 reduced the brain oedema by 68% compared to the control group (P < 0.05), but rosiglitazone or combination did not show any significant effect. The drugs alone or in combination also demonstrated improved neurological function, but combination therapy was more effective on neurological deficits improving. Our data show that the combination of MK‐801 and rosiglitazone is more neuroprotective in thromboembolic stroke than given alone; this effect perhaps represents a possible additive effect in the brain infarction.
Ellagic Acid Prevents Cisplatin‐Induced Oxidative Stress in Liver and Heart Tissue of Rats
Authors: Yüce Abdurrauf , Ateşşahin Ahmet , Çeribaşı Ali Osman , Aksakal Mesut
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Cisplatin is one of the most active cytotoxic agents in the treatment of cancer. High doses of cisplatin have also been known to produce hepatotoxicity, and several studies suggest that supplemental antioxidants can reduce cisplatin‐induced hepatotoxicity. The present study was designed to determine the effects on the liver and heart oxidant/antioxidant system and the possible protective effects of ellagic acid on liver and heart toxicity induced by cisplatin. The control group received 0.9% saline; animals in the ellagic acid group received only ellagic acid (10 mg/kg); animals in the cisplatin group received only cisplatin (7 mg/kg); animals in cisplatin + ellagic acid group received ellagic acid for 10 days after cisplatin. The rats were killed at the end of the treatment period. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) levels, glutathione‐peroxidase (GSH‐Px) and catalase (CAT) activities were determined in liver and heart tissue. While administration of cisplatin increased the MDA levels in liver and heart tissues, it decreased the GSH, GSH‐Px and CAT in these samples when compared to the control group. The administration of ellagic acid to cisplatin‐treated rats decreased the MDA levels, and increased GSH, GSH‐Px and CAT in these samples. Cisplatin caused marked damages in the histopathological status of liver and heart tissues. These damages were ameliorated by ellagic acid administration. In conclusion, ellagic acid may be used in combination with cisplatin in chemotherapy to improve cisplatin‐induced oxidative stress parameters.
Therapeutic Potential of Endocannabinoid‐Hydrolysing Enzyme Inhibitors
Authors: Saario Susanna M. , Laitinen Jarmo T.
Published: September 2007

Abstract: The specific protein target of Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9‐THC), the main active ingredient ofCannabis sativaL., was characterized from rat brain nearly 20 years ago, and several endogenous compounds and proteins comprising the endocannabinoid (eCB) system have since been discovered. It has become evident that the eCB system consists of at least two cannabinoid receptors (i.e. the CB1and CB2receptors), in addition to their endogenous ligands (the eCBs) and several enzymes involved in the biosynthesis and catabolism of the eCBs. The two well‐established eCBs,N‐arachidonoylethanolamide (AEA) and 2‐arachidonoylglycerol (2‐AG), are produced by neurons on demand, act near their sites of synthesis and are effectively metabolized by fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoglyceride lipase (MGL), respectively. Inhibitors specifically targeting these enzymes could offer novel therapeutic approaches (e.g. for the treatment of pain and movement disorders). This MiniReview summarizes the literature concerning the potential therapeutic potential of FAAH and MGL inhibitors.
EVALUATION OF FACTORS AFFECTING BARRIER, MECHANICAL AND OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF PECTIN‐BASED FILMS USING RESPONSE SURFACE METHODOLOGY
Authors: MAFTOONAZAD NEDA , RAMASWAMY HOSAHALLI S. , MARCOTTE MICHELE
Published: September 2007

Emulsion coatings were formulated and films were developed using pectin as the basic structural component. Preliminary experiments were carried out to determine the proper type and concentration of pectin, lipid and plasticizers in the film. The effects of pectin, beeswax and sorbitol concentration on water vapor permeability (WVP), mechanical properties and opacity of the films were evaluated using the response surface methodology. WVP increased by pectin and sorbitol concentration and was decreased by beeswax concentration. Mechanical properties were mainly affected by pectin and sorbitol concentration. Increasing the amount of pectin and decreasing the sorbitol concentration increased tensile strength (TS) and modulus of elasticity (EM), while elongation at break (EB) increased by increasing both pectin and sorbitol concentration. Beeswax was the most influential factor that affected opacity, which increased with increasing beeswax concentration. Models developed for WVP, EB, EM and opacity had high coefficient of multiple determination (R2) values (>0.87) and significant F values. The model for TS had a slightly lower R2 of 0.81.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This research examined the preparation of pectin‐based edible films, providing an understanding of the main functionalities of these coatings. This film can help retain moisture and restrict its movement. Moisture levels in foods are critical for maintaining freshness, controlling microbial growth and providing texture. This film can control water activity, preventing either moisture loss or uptake. It can protect food from physical injuries. Since so many formulations were designed, based on the use of the film one can select each type of formulation that works best for the specific application. It can potentially limit fat migration, provide a barrier to gas, help to trap flavor and aroma, and carry and present antioxidants or antimicrobials. This article will be of value to anyone working with products where edible films have potential applications and particularly to technical personnel and product developers who wish to understand the potential of edible film and coating technology.
APPLICATION OF COEFFICIENT OF FRICTION TO THE SEPARATION OF COCOA HUSK–BEANS MIXTURE
Authors: OWOLARAFE O.K. , OGUNSINA B.S. , GBADAMOSI A.S. , FABUNMI O.O.
Published: September 2007

Investigation was carried out on the application of coefficient of friction in the separation of cocoa beans–husk mixture. An inclined plane at angles 20, 25 and 35°rotating at different speeds (215, 250 and 260 rpm) and receiving the mixture at heights 30, 60 and 90 mm, was used for the study. The result indicates that within the range of factors considered, the separation efficiency of the beans from the mixture increases with increase in speed of rotation and height of fall, while it decreases with increase in angle of inclination. Statistical analysis shows that the effects of each of the factors and that of their interaction are significant at 99%. The best separation efficiency (99%) was observed at a speed of 250 rpm, an angle of inclination of 25° and a height fall of 90 mm.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Separation of cocoa beans from the husks has been a serious problem in cocoa processing. Handpicking is still being used to separate the mixture of cocoa beans–husk even with the mechanical pod breaker available. This therefore constitutes a tedious operation. An inclined plane mechanism tested for the separation of the mixture in this study can be incorporated into the design of the cocoa pod processor to reduce the drudgery involved in cocoa processing and improve the quality of the product.
CONCENTRATION BOUNDARY CONDITIONS IN THE THEORETICAL ANALYSIS OF CONVECTIVE DRYING PROCESS
Authors: KAYA AHMET , AYDIN ORHAN , DEMIRTAŞ CEVDET
Published: September 2007

In the theoretical analysis of convective drying process, two boundary conditions are common for concentration: constant concentration and convection. In this study, these two boundary conditions were comparatively examined by comparing theoretical results obtained with regard to experimental ones. Pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo) was considered as the product to be dried while air was the drying medium. The drying characteristics of pumpkin were determined for various values of drying air parameters, including temperature, velocity and relative humidity. Sorption isotherms of the dried pumpkin were also determined for different temperatures and water activities. The values of the effective moisture diffusivity, Deff, and the convective mass transfer coefficient, hm, were predicted, and these values were found to agree fairly well with those available in the existing literature.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Convective drying as well as other drying techniques are used in order to preserve and store agricultural products for longer periods by removing some of their moisture content. Drying is a complicated process involving simultaneous heat and mass transfer under transient conditions. Understanding the heat and mass transfer in the product will help to improve drying process parameters and hence the quality.
ELECTRICAL CONDUCTIVITY AND KINETIC PARAMETERS OF RICE STARCH
Authors: SANCHEZ E. MORALES , MARTINEZ M. GAYTAN , VEGA M.L. REYES , CARDENAS J.D.C. FIGUEROA
Published: September 2007

In the present work, rice starch was studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and electrical conductivity as a function of temperature. The gelatinization temperature was calculated using both methods. Three stages of electrical conductivity were found. When the logarithm of conductivity was plotted versus temperature, the data have been well adjusted to the linear equation, indicating that a model for conductivity may be created using an Arrhenius‐type expression to obtain kinetic parameters such as onset, peakset, endset temperatures and gelatinization energy (Eg). The conductivity Eg was calculated and compared to the enthalpy H calculated from the DSC data. It was found that Eg and enthalpy are similar processes. We conclude that electrical conductivity is an alternative method for the study of starch–water mixtures.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This research provides a new methodology to obtain kinetic parameters such as temperature of the beginning, medium and ending of gelatinizaiton, which are important for determining the cooking range needed to obtain desired characteristics in a processed starch‐containing food.
CHANGES IN THE DRYING CHARACTERISTICS AND WATER ACTIVITY VALUES OF SELECTED PISTACHIO CULTIVARS DURING HOT AIR DRYING
Authors: AKTAS TURKAN , POLAT REFIK
Published: September 2007

The drying characteristics and changing of water activity (Aw) values of Kirmizi and Siirt pistachio cultivars were determined experimentally as a function of drying air temperature and initial moisture content during hot air drying. The drying experiments were conducted using two levels of initial moisture content (32 and 38%) and three drying air temperatures (40, 50 and 60C) at 1.5 m/s drying air velocity at 12% air relative humidity. The drying curves obtained from the experimental data were then fitted to the 10 different semitheoretical and/or empirical thin‐layer drying models. The moisture ratios at any drying time were compared by the Newton, Page, Henderson and Pabis, Logarithmic, Two‐term, Wang and Singh, Diffusion approximation, Modified Henderson and Pabis, Verma et al. and Midilli et al. models. The effect of drying air temperature and initial moisture content on the coefficients of the best‐suited moisture ratio model were determined by multiple regression method. Root mean square error and reduced chi‐square were used for the determination of the best suitable model. In addition to these statistical parameters, the modeling efficiency was also determined. The Modified Henderson and Pabis model was found to be the most suitable for describing the drying behavior of both pistachio cultivars. As a criterion of shelf life, Aw changes of dried pistachio samples were investigated.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Proper harvesting and postharvest handling are basic parts to achieve maximum yield of good quality nuts that determine marketability and profit. Processing right after harvesting is very important to pistachio quality. Drying is an important operation in pistachio processing. During the drying process, nuts can undergo reactions that cause loss of nutritional value and enzymatic activity. It is therefore necessary to design and simulate accurately the drying systems for pistachio nuts. For this reason, knowledge of such nut properties as thin‐layer drying characteristics under different drying conditions is required. Also changing of water activity values is also important for different drying and storage conditions in practical applications because the most effective preventative control is to dry pistachio nuts to a water activity of 0.82 for short‐term or 0.70 for long‐term storage to prevent mold growth and aflatoxin contamination.
Insight into the Metabolism Rate of Quinone Analogues from Molecular Dynamics Simulation and 3D‐QSMR Methods
Authors: Chen Hai‐Feng , Wu Mao‐Ying , Wang Zhuo , Wei Dong‐Qing
Published: September 2007

Molecular dynamics simulation was applied to investigate the metabolism mechanism for quinone analogues. Favourable hydrogen bonds between ligand and NQO1, and parallel orientation between ligand and flavin adenine dinucleotide could explain the difference of metabolism rate (in μmol/min/mg) for quinone analogues. This is consistent with the experimental observation (Structure 2001;9:659–667). Then Support Vector Machines was used to construct quantitative structure–metabolism rate model. The model was evaluated by 14 test set compounds. Some descriptors selected by Support Vector Machine, were introduced into standard fields of three‐dimensional quantitative structure–metabolism relationship to improve the statistical parameters of three‐dimensional quantitative structure–metabolism relationship models. The results show that the inclusion of highest occupied molecular orbital and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital is meaningful for three‐dimensional quantitative structure–metabolism relationship models. These in silico absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion models are helpful in making quantitative prediction of their metabolic rates for new lead compounds before resorting in vitro and in vivo experimentation.
Juvenile nephropathy in 37 boxer dogs
Authors: Chandler M. L. , Elwood C. , Murphy K. F. , Gajanayake I. , Syme H. M.
Published: September 2007

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to review and characterise the clinical presentation of young boxer dogs with chronic kidney disease referred to the authors’ institutions.

Methods: Records were collected retrospectively from 37 boxer dogs, less than five years of age, which had presented with azotaemia, inappropriately low urine concentrating ability, and ultrasound or radiographic evidence of abnormal kidneys.

Results: Clinicopathological findings included azotaemia, hyperphosphataemia, anaemia, isosthenuria and proteinuria. Ultrasonographic findings included hyperechoic renal cortices, loss of corticomedullary junction definition, dilated pelves and irregularly shaped small kidneys. Renal histopathological findings included pericapsular and interstitial fibrosis, inflammatory cell infiltration, dilated tubules, sclerotic glomeruli and dystrophic calcification. Survival time of the dogs varied from zero to over five years after diagnosis.

Clinical Significance: This paper documents features of the presentation and progression of juvenile nephropathy in boxer dogs. While juvenile nephropathy has been reported in individual cases of boxer dogs previously, this is the first reported case series.
Photosensitisation induced by clofazimine in a cat
Authors: Bennett SL
Published: September 2007

A pale ginger cat was treated with clofazimine for feline leprosy. During the course of treatment, photosensitisation by clofazimine led to a dermatological disease resembling actinic dermatitis. The mycobacterial disease was eventually cured with clofazimine and the photosensitisation was managed by regulating sunlight exposure. Upon review of the literature, this appears to be the first documented case of drug‐induced photosensitisation in the cat.
Uterus unicornis in two mares
Authors: Brown JA , Hodder ADJ , Benak J , Liu IKM , Ball BA
Published: September 2007

Two American Paint Horses, a 3‐year‐old nulliparous mare and a 7‐year‐old primiparous mare, presented for recent infertility and a pre‐breeding examination, respectively. Examination of the internal reproductive tract of both mares using transrectal palpation and ultrasonography revealed the presence of the cervix, uterine body, left uterine horn and bilateral ovaries. The right uterine horn could neither be palpated nor imaged. The clinical diagnosis of uterus unicornis in one mare was confirmed at necropsy, which revealed combined aplasia of the right uterine horn and oviduct.
Surgical correction of metacarpophalangeal valgus deformity in an alpaca
Authors: Parry AJ , Dart AJ
Published: September 2007

A 1‐month‐old alpaca cria presented with a 13 degree valgus deformity of the left metacarpophalangeal joint. The angular limb deformity was centered on the distal metacarpal physes. Transphyseal bridging of the physes was recommended. Two 2.7 mm cortical bone screws were placed either side of the distal metacarpal physes and a figure of eight wire was placed medially around the screw heads. The screws extended through the medial metacarpus into the axial cortex of the lateral metacarpus. Seven weeks after surgery the limb was straight and the screws and wire were removed.

Transphyseal bridging of the distal metacarpal physes can be effectively used for the treatment of metacarpophalangeal valgus in crias with open physes.
Recurrent rectal prolapse caused by colonic duplication in a dog
Authors: Landon BP , Abraham LA , Charles JA , Edwards GA
Published: September 2007

A 9‐month‐old female Shar Pei cross‐bred dog was presented with a history of recurrent rectal prolapse over 7 months. Repeated reduction and anal purse string sutures and subsequent incisional colopexy failed to prevent recurrent rectal prolapse. Digital rectal examination following reduction of the prolapse identified a faeces‐filled sac within the ventral wall of the rectum and an orifice in the ventral colonic wall, cranial to the pubic brim. A ventral, communicating tubular colonic duplication was diagnosed by means of a barium enema. Surgical excision of the duplicated colonic tube was performed via a caudal ventral midline laparotomy. At 20 weeks post‐operation, there has been no recurrence of rectal prolapse.
Effects of vaccine dose, virus challenge dose and interval from vaccination to challenge on protection of broiler chickens against Marek's disease virus challenge
Authors: Islam AFMF , Walkden‐brown SW , Groves PJ , Underwood GJ
Published: September 2007

Objectives   To examine the effects of varying the doses of turkey herpesvirus (HVT) vaccine and Marek's disease virus (MDV) challenge at two intervals after vaccination on the protection of chickens against challenge with MDV.

Design and procedure   Experiment 1, a dose response study, consisted of 11 doses of HVT vaccine administered at hatch followed by challenge with 100 plaque forming units (pfu) of MDV 5 days post vaccination. Experiment 2, a 2 × 6 × 2 factorial design, included two HVT vaccine types, six different doses of HVT vaccine and 50 pfu and 200 pfu of MDV challenge 2 days post vaccination. All chickens were reared up to day 56 post challenge when all survivors were killed humanely. Dead and killed chickens were examined for gross MD tumours.

Results   Experiment 1 showed a significant positive linear relationship between dose of HVT vaccine and protective index in chickens challenged 5 days post vaccination. However the range of protective index observed was limited. In Experiment 2 neither HVT vaccine provided significant protection at any dose. There was no significant effect of vaccine type or MDV challenge dose on overall protection against challenge. Chickens challenged with 200 pfu of MDV had significantly higher mortality and MD incidence than those with 50 pfu.

Conclusions   HVT vaccine dose had a significant impact on protective index, but vaccination to challenge interval appeared to have greater impact on the protective efficacy of vaccination. A fourfold increase in challenge dose increased mortality rate and incidence of MD.
Effect of s‐methylmethionine sulphonium chloride on oesophagogastric ulcers in pigs
Authors: Kopinski JS , Fogarty R , McVeigh J
Published: September 2007

Objective    To assess the value of s‐methylmethionine sulphonium chloride (SMMSC) (200 mg/kg) on nutritional performance of pigs and as prevention or therapy for oesophagogastric ulcers.

Design    Sixty pigs from a high health status herd with continuing oesophagogastric ulcer problems were endoscopically assessed for the presence or absence of oesophagogastric ulcers. Forty‐eight pigs were then selected and allocated according to an initial oesophagogastric epithelial (ulcer score) classification to replicated treatment groups in a 2 × 2 factorial design. Weight gain and feed intake were measured over 49 d, after which pigs were killed and stomachs were collected, re‐examined and scored for oesophagogastric ulceration.

Results    There was no difference over the 49 d in weight gain, feed intake and backfat in pigs with and without SMMSC supplementation between pigs with or without fully developed oesophagogastric ulcers at the start of the study. In pigs with an initially low ulcer score, feeding SMMSC did not prevent further oesophagogastric ulcer development. No significant effect of SMMSC was apparent when final mean oesophagogastric ulcer scores were compared in pigs with existing high ulcer score. However, further analysis of the changes in individual pig oesophagogastric ulcer scores during the experiment showed that the observed reductions in scores of the high ulcer group was significantly different from all other groups.

Conclusion    This study has indicated that supplementation of pig diets with SMMSC cannot be justified unless the slight ulcer score improvement observed could be translated to some commercial production advantage such as a reduction in pig mortalities due to oesophagogastric ulcers. This study has further confirmed the benefit of endoscopy as a tool to enable objective assessment of oesophageal gastric health.
Numerical Modeling of the Coupled Mechanical and Hydrological Processes during Deformation and Mineralization in the Mount Isa Block, Australia
Authors: Liu Liang‐Ming , Zhang Yanhua
Published: September 2007

Mount Isa is a major Australian and world Pb‐Zn‐Ag mineral province. The wide varieties of mineralization in the province are believed to be closely related to the geodynamic processes of Isan Orogeny, which occurred between ca 1500 and 1620 Ma. In order to understand the geodynamic processes associated with the Isan Orogeny and the giant mineralization systems in the Mount Isa district, a series of numerical models has been constructed to simulate coupled mechanical–hydrological processes, using Fast Lagrangian Analysis of Continua (FLAC), a finite difference computer code. The numerical modeling results have demonstrated that the most probable far‐field stress orientation during the Isan Orogeny is the asymmetrical E–W shortening, which led to greater easternward tectonic movement at the west boundary of the district in comparison with westward movement at the east boundary. During the initial and early stage of the Isan Orogeny, the mechanical and hydrological conditions in the Leichardt Fault Trough of the West Fold Belt are much more favorable for fluid accumulation and mineralization than in the East Fold Belt. The Mount Isan fault zone developed as a high dilation shear zone where the fluids were focused. As the asymmetrical shortening progressed, shortening deformation and shear strain localization became intensified in the eastern part of the orogenic district. The eastern region therefore became a more favorable locality for hydrothermal mineralization. This structural development feature seems to explain why mineralization in the East Fold Belt is generally later than in the West Fold Belt. Fluid production from the Williams–Naraku granites could result in fluid over‐pressuring, and this probably contributed to the extensive brecciation and related mineralization in the East Fold Belt.
Geochemical Characteristics and Expansion Properties of a Highly Potassic Perlitic Rhyolite from Lopburi, Thailand
Authors: Saisuttichai Darunee , Manning David A. C.
Published: September 2007

Miocene volcanic rocks from northeast of Lopburi, Thailand, include a suite of highly potassic (<6.3% K2O) perlitic rhyolites that are similar chemically to rhyolites from Sardinia (which are also perlitic) and Vulcano. Electron microprobe analysis using a defocussed beam has shown that glass compositions contain up to 12.9% K2O (0.9% Na2O), and within the same samples spherulites are enriched in Na2O (<6.2%) and depleted in K2O (2.1%). The perlitic rhyolites contain up to 4% water of meteoric origin; from Fourier transform infra‐red spectroscopy data, expansion on heating involves a reduction in both hydroxyl and molecular water contents. When expanded using a laboratory test furnace, specific gravities as low as 26 kg/m3have been achieved for a 0.15–0.3‐mm feed size fraction (reference perlite ores from Milos and Sardinia gave 47 and 33 kg/m3, respectively), and 10 kg/m3for a 0.5–1‐mm fraction separated after expansion. Expansion involves the loss of fluorine from the perlite, presumably as HF; unexpanded perlite contains 90–550 mg/kg F, which is reduced on expansion by 4–65%. Water‐soluble fluorine after expansion is increased by a factor of 10 up to 3.3 mg/kg. Expansion also increases the availability of K to plants by a factor of up to 6, with a maximum available K content of 1245 mg K/kg perlite. This contrasts markedly with the chemically inert character of other, commercial, perlites, suggesting that the distinctive K‐enrichment of the perlitic rhyolite has given a raw material capable of generating products with nutritional functionality for plant growers.
Geology and Geochemistry of the Buerkesidai and Kuoerzhenkuola Gold Deposits in the Sawuershan Region, Xinjiang Uigur Autonomous Region, Northwest China
Authors: Zeng Qingdong , Liu Jianming , Liu Tiebing , Shen Yuanchao , Shen Ping , Li Guangming
Published: September 2007

The Sawuershan region, one of the important gold metallogenic belts of Xinjiang, is located in the western part of the Kalatongke island arc zone of north Xinjiang, NW China. There are two gold deposits in mining, namely the Kuoerzhenkuola and the Buerkesidai deposits. Gold ores at the Kuoerzhenkuola deposit occur within Carboniferous andesite and volcanic breccias in the form of gold‐bearing quartz–pyrite veins and veinlet groups containing native gold, electrum, pyrite, pyrrhotite and chalcopyrite. Gold ores at the Buerkesidai deposit occur within Carboniferous tuffaceous siltstones in the form of gold‐bearing quartz veinlet groups and altered rocks, with electrum, pyrite and arsenopyrite as major metallic minerals. Both gold deposits are hosted by structurally controlled faults associated with intense hydrothermal alteration. The typical alteration assemblage is sericite + chlorite + calcite + quartz, with an inner pyrite–sericite zone and an outer chlorite–calcite–epidote zone between orebodies and wall rocks. δ34S values (0.3–1.3‰) of pyrite of ores from Kuoerzhenkuola deposit are similar to those (0.4–2.9‰) of pyrite of ores from Buerkesidai deposit. δ34S values (1.1–2.8‰) of pyrite from altered rocks are similar to δ34S values of magmatic or igneous sulfide sulfur, but higher than those from ores. 206Pb/204Pb, 207Pb/204Pb and 208Pb/204Pb data of sulfide from ores range within 17.72–18.56, 15.34–15.61, and 37.21–38.28, respectively. These sulfur and lead isotope compositions imply that ore‐forming materials might originate from multiple, mainly deep sources. He and Ar isotope study on fluid inclusions of pyrites from ores of Kuoerzhenkuola and Buerkesidai gold deposits produces 40Ar/36Ar and 3He/4He ratios in the range of 282–525 and 0.6–9.4 R/Ra, respectively, indicating a mixed source of deep‐seated magmatic water (mantle fluid) and shallower meteoric water. In terms of tectonic setting, the gold deposits in the Sawuershan region can be interpreted as epithermal. These formations resulted from a combination of protracted volcanic activity, hydrothermal fluid mixing, and a structural setting favoring gold deposition. Fluid mixing was possibly the key factor resulting in Au deposition in the gold deposits in Sawuershan region.
Sensitive High‐Resolution Ion Microprobe U‐Pb Zircon and 40Ar‐39Ar Muscovite Ages of the Yinshan Deposit in the Northeast Jiangxi Province, South China
Authors: Li Xiaofeng , Watanabe Yasushi , Mao Jingwen , Liu Shengxiang , Yi Xiankui
Published: September 2007

The Yinshan deposit in the Jiangnan tectonic belt in South China consists of Pb‐Zn‐Ag and Cu‐Au ore bodies. This deposit contains approximately 83 Mt of the Cu‐Au ores at 0.52% Cu and 0.8 g/t Au, and 84 Mt of the Pb‐Zn‐Ag ores at 1.25% Pb, 1.02% Zn and 33.3 g/t Ag. It is hosted by low‐grade metamorphosed sedimentary rocks and mafic volcanic rocks of the lower Mesoproterozoic Shuangqiaoshan Group, and continental volcanic rocks of the Jurassic Erhuling Group and dacitic subvolcanic rocks. The ore bodies mainly consist of veinlets of sulfide minerals and sulfide‐disseminated rocks, which are divided into Cu‐Au and Pb‐Zn‐Ag ore bodies. The Cu‐Au ore bodies occur in the area close to a dacite porphyry stock (No. 3 stock), whereas Pb‐Zn‐Ag bodies occur in areas distal from the No. 3 stock. Muscovite is the main alteration mineral associated with the Cu‐Au ore bodies, and muscovite and chlorite are associated with the Pb‐Zn‐Ag ores. A zircon sensitive high‐resolution ion microprobe U‐Pb age from the No. 3 dacite stock suggests it was emplaced in Early Jurassic. Three 40Ar‐39Ar incremental‐heating mineral ages from muscovite, which are related to Cu‐Au and Pb‐Zn‐Ag mineralization, yielded 179–175 Ma. These muscovite ages indicate that Cu‐Au mineralization occurred at 178.2±1.4 Ma (2σ), and Pb‐Zn‐Ag mineralization at 175.4±1.2 Ma (2σ) and 175.3±1.1 Ma (2σ), which supports a restricted period for the mineralization. The Early Jurassic ages for the mineralization at Yinshan are similar to that of the porphyry Cu mineralization at Dexing in Jiangnan tectonic belt, and suggest that the polymetallic mineralization occurred in a regional transcompressional tectonic regime.
Basic Structural and Geological Features of the Stolovac Uranium Mineral Occurrence, Eastern Serbia
Authors: Vukas Radoslav
Published: September 2007

The uranium mineral occurrence of Stolovac is located in the middle of a Permian red sandstone formation, the westernmost east‐Serbian Carpatho‐Balkan metallogenic province, or the Ridanj–Krepoljin ore zone. It was found by geological radiometry survey at the anomaly spots indicated by aerial gamma‐ray spectrometry (AGS). The task of anomaly identification is to accurately locate the AGS‐recorded anomalies in the field, to define the source of anomalous radioactivity (natural or artificial), to understand the relationship between the anomalous radioactivity and the given structural and geological situation, and to sample the material. The geological radiometry survey at scale 1:25,000 indicated increased radioactivity in gray sandstones of the Stolovački stream bed in Stolovac, some 40 km NE of Paraćin. The instrument used was a scintillometer SSP 2NF, and the measured radioactivity was 10‐fold higher than the local background level. Of all the customary field work, the greatest volume (trenching, drilling and accessory testing) was carried out in Stolovac; other radioactivity anomalies in the red sandstone formation remained inadequately explored and are the subject of this paper. The 3‐year exploration in uranium at Stolovac indicated sandstone‐type infiltrated uranium mineralization in sandstones in the middle of the Permian red sandstone formation: a complex called “variegated rocks”.
An Evaluation of Barrier Efficacy and Cognitive Evaluation Theory as Predictors of Exercise Attendance
Authors: Dyrlund Allison K. , Wininger Steven R.
Published: September 2007

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the barrier efficacy and cognitive evaluation theory with regard to predicting exercise attendance. Participants consisted of 189 undergraduates attending not‐for‐credit fitness classes at a regional comprehensive university in the Midwest. A revised 17‐item version of the Intrinsic Motivation Inventory was used to assess exercise enjoyment and the three components of self‐determination theory (competence, autonomy, and relatedness). A modified version of the Self‐Efficacy Scale was used to assess self‐efficacy. Attendance was significantly correlated with competency and self‐efficacy. Regression results revealed that class, relatedness, and competence accounted for a significant amount of variance in attendance. Future research should examine the effects of competence‐enhancing strategies on exercise adherence.
Exercising in Public and Private Environments: Effects on Feeling States in Women with Social Physique Anxiety
Authors: Focht Brian C. , Hausenblas Heather A.
Published: September 2007

The purpose of this investigation was to examine the influence of acute exercise performed in public and private exercise environments upon feeling states (FS) in 30 women with high social physique anxiety (SPA). A secondary purpose was to examine if perceptions of evaluative threat (EVT) mediated the affective responses to exercise. Multivariate analyses revealed that exercising in the public environment resulted in negative FS responses, whereas exercising in the private environment yielded favorable FS responses to exercise. EVT significantly mediated state anxiety responses to exercise but did not mediate any of the FS responses. The results suggest that the environment influences the FS responses to exercise among women with high SPA and that EVT mediates selected psychological responses to exercise.
Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Adrenocortical Axis Dysregulation in Acute Temporomandibular Disorder and Low Back Pain: A Marker for Chronicity?1
Authors: Garofalo John P. , Robinson Richard C. , Gatchel Robert J.
Published: September 2007

Dysregulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenocortical (HPA) axis is believed to be a valid biological marker of stress. This study evaluating changes in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and low back pain (LBP) to determine whether dysregulation of this system represents a marker for chronicity. Salivary cortisol samples were collected from 78 patients (TMD = 41, LBP = 37) upon waking up and 20 minutes later daily for 2 weeks. High‐risk patients for chronic pain had different overall cortisol levels versus low‐risk patients. High‐risk patients exhibited greater variability in terms of cortisol secretion compared with low‐risk patients, F(1, 1,243) = 17.73, p < .000. These results provide evidence of a neuroendocrine mechanism underlying a constellation of psychosocial risk factors for chronic pain.
Decreases in Cortisol Variability Between Treated and Untreated Jaw Pain Patients1
Authors: Robinson Richard C. , Garofalo John P. , Gatchel Robert J.
Published: September 2007

The study evaluated the impact of treatment on cortisol levels in acute pain patients at high risk for chronic jaw‐related pain. Twenty‐five patients with jaw pain or facial discomfort (< 6 months) participated in the study. Patients at high risk for chronic pain received biobehavioral intervention, and those at lower risk received standard care. Cortisol levels increased over time in both conditions, F(1, 429) = 6.614, p = .010; however, cortisol variability decreased among those receiving biobehavioral treatment (p < .043), whereas variability increased among those receiving standard treatment. Together, these findings underscore the potential role of cortisol activity in that it may influence the transition from acute pain to chronic pain.
Examining Self‐Presentational Exercise Motives and Social Physique Anxiety in Men and Women1
Authors: Strong Heather A. , Ginis Kathleen A. Martin , Mack Diane E. , Wilson Philip M.
Published: September 2007

The primary purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between self‐presentational exercise motives and social physique anxiety (SPA), and the secondary purpose was to examine if gender moderated the relationship between self‐presentational exercise motives and SPA. Female (n = 320) and male (n = 154) undergraduate students completed the Social Physique Anxiety Scale (SPAS) and five subscales of the Exercise Motivation Inventory‐2 conceptually linked to self‐presentation. Correlational analyses revealed patterns of relationships between measures of self‐presentational exercise motives and SPA. Regression analyses revealed that the interaction between weight management and gender was a positive predictor of SPA. Potential applications of the results and future research directions are discussed.
Health‐Related Quality of Life as a Potential Predictor of Recycling‐Related Proenvironmental Behavior in Japan: A Cross‐Sectional Study1
Authors: Yamazaki Shin , Wakita Takafumi , Aoyagi‐Usui Midori
Published: September 2007

We examined the association between the health‐related quality of life (HQOL) of individuals and recycling‐related proenvironmental behavior using the SF‐8 Health Survey (SF‐8). A self‐administered questionnaire that included the SF‐8 and three items on proenvironmental behaviors was distributed to 2,400 individuals aged 15 years or older who had been selected from the entire population of Japan. The age‐ and sex‐adjusted odds ratios of having the proenvironmental behavior of “separating empty metal cans, empty glass bottles, and used paper for recycling from other trash” and “separating empty plastic food containers for recycling from other trash” for each 10‐point increase in the physical summary component score of the SF‐8 were 1.25 (95% confidence interval: 1.02–1.52) and 1.25 (1.01–1.52), respectively. HQOL was associated with recycling‐related proenvironmental behavior.
Examining the Contributions of Perceived Psychological Need Satisfaction to Well‐Being in Exercise1
Authors: Wilson Philip M. , Longley Katie , Muon Sovoeun , Rodgers Wendy M. , Murray Terra C.
Published: September 2007

This investigation examined the relationship between perceived psychological need satisfaction and well‐being in exercise. Participants in Study 1 were women enrolled in a resistance‐training program who completed instruments on two occasions across 12 weeks. Changes in perceived need satisfaction and subjective vitality were evident, and residual change score analyses supported covariation between variables over time. Participants in Study 2 were patrons of a university fitness facility who completed instruments once following an exercise session. Canonical correlation analyses indicated that perceived need satisfaction was differentially associated with positive and negative affect. These results suggest that perceived psychological need satisfaction in exercise contributes to global and contextual well‐being.
The Effect of Changes in Attitude and Subjective Norm on Treatment Compliance in Hypertension Patients
Authors: Jeon So Youn , Lee Sok Goo
Published: September 2007

This study measured changes in the attitude and subjective norm of hypertension patients over time using the theory of reasoned action, and the effects that such changes made on the treatment compliance of hypertension. We examined the changes for approximately 4 years, targeting 166 hypertension patients in a local community. The group that showed a low score in attitude and subjective norm on the first survey showed an increase as time went by, but the group that showed a high score at first showed a decrease thereafter. And the group that had an increase in changes in attitude and subjective norm showed the greatest increases in drug treatment compliance.
Isolation and characterization of epithelial progenitor cells from human fetal liver
Authors: Liu Yi‐Nan , Zhang Jun , He Qi‐Hua , Dai Xin , Shen Li
Published: September 2007

Aim:  Hepatic progenitor cells can serve as an alternative source of hepatocytes for the treatment of liver diseases.

Methods:  We isolated and expanded the epithelial progenitor cells (EPC) from the human fetal liver and investigated the differentiation of EPC into hepatic cells by fluorescence‐activated cell sorter (FACS), real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), immunofluorescence assay, western blotting, and periodic acid–Schiff staining.

Results:  Isolated EPC possessed highly proliferative ability and subpassaged for more than 25 passages. Real‐time PCR showed that EPC expressed liver epithelial markers (cytokeratin [CK]8 and CK18) and biliary‐specific markers (CK7 and CK19). FACS analysis indicated that these cells were positive for CD117, CD147, CD90, CD44, human leucocyte antigen class I and CD71, but negative for CD34 and CD45. The EPCpossessed multipotential indicated by differentiating into osteoblasts and adipocytes; when subjected to the hepatic differentiation condition, EPC could be induced to hepatocyte‐like cells, which expressed albumin, alpha‐fetoprotein, and CK18 proteins. Two months after EPC transplantation, we observed that the grafted cells differentiated into hepatocyte‐like cells and there was no observable tumor mass.

Conclusion:  We have isolated and characterized the human fetal liver‐derived EPC and these cells may serve as an ideal cell source for cell‐replacement therapy of diseased livers.
Effects of free radical scavenger on acute liver injury induced byd‐galactosamine and lipopolysaccharide in rats
Authors: Ito Koji , Ozasa Hisashi , Noda Yumi , Arii Shigeki , Horikawa Saburo
Published: September 2007

Aim: Acute severe liver injury still has a high mortality rate. Acute liver injury induced by a coadministration ofd‐galactosamine (GalN) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is an experimental model of fulminant hepatitis in rats. Our aim is to investigate the effects of free radical scavenger on the injury induced by GalN/LPS in rats.

Methods: Free radical scavenger edaravone (3‐methyl‐1‐phenyl‐2‐pyrazolin‐5‐one) was twice injected into rats 5 min before and 60 min after the GalN/LPS injection. Liver injury was biochemically and histologically assessed. The survival rate was examined 72 h after the intoxication.

Results: In the GalN/LPS‐treated rats, a marked elevation in serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels was observed. On the other hand, edaravone significantly inhibited the elevation in serum AST and ALT levels. The efficacy of edaravone was also confirmedby histological analysis. Edaravone lowered the levels of proinflammatory cytokines TNF‐α mRNA and interleukin‐6 mRNA expression, antioxidative enzyme heme oxygenase‐1 protein and myeloperoxidase activity, a marker of neutrophil infiltration, in rat livers. In addition, edaravone reduced the mortality rate in GalN/LPS‐treated rats as compared to the rats without edaravone treatment.

Conclusions: Free radical scavenger edaravone effectively ameliorated the liver injury induced by the GalN/LPS administration in rats, not only by attenuating oxidative stress, but also by reducing the expression of proinflammatory cytokines.