bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of distress and depression in elders with arthritic pain
Authors: Tsai Pao‐Feng
Published: June 2005

Aim. The aim of this paper is to report the findings of a study testing a theory of chronic pain, with financial hardship added as a contextual stimulus.

Background. Arthritis is highly prevalent among older people, resulting in severe pain and suffering. A previous study testing a theory of chronic pain in elders with arthritis found that pain, disability and social support explained only 35% of the variance in their emotional distress. It is possible that demands, other than chronic pain, such as financial hardship, also contribute to these elders’ stress and depression.

Method. The theory was tested with 235 elders with arthritis using a secondary data analysis strategy. Data were obtained from the study of Ageing, Status, and Sense of Control carried out in 1998 in the United States of America. Variables were constructed from original questionnaires.

Results. The hypothesized model fitted the data only moderately well (χ2 = 40·04, d.f = 6,P < 0·0001; CFI = 0·88; NFI = 0·88). Disability and financial hardship positively predicted distress, while social support and age had a reverse impact on distress, which explained 24% of the variance in distress. This means that elders with higher levels of disability, more financial hardship, less social support or younger age are likely to have higher levels of distress. Distress alone explained 33% of the variance in depressive symptoms. A data‐derived model was created with excellent fit (χ2 = 3; d.f. = 4;P = 0·56; CFI = 1·00; NFI = 0·99), showing that disability, social support, financial hardship and age predicted distress (R2 = 0·24). Pain, disability and distress predicted depression (R2 = 0·44).

Conclusions. The results partially supported the theory. Exploring the possibility of using depression as part of the control process and removing gender as a residual stimulus may lead to further refinement of the theory. The findings allow nurses to have a better understanding of the experiences of elders with arthritis, and thus to offer appropriate care to meet their needs.
Molecular staging of bladder cancer
Authors: Mitra Anirban P. , Datar Ram H. , Cote Richard J.
Published: June 2005

Attempts are being made in many laboratories to find new biomarkers for and new methods of molecular staging of bladder cancer. At the forefront of this are the authors from Los Angeles who have contributed the first of four mini‐reviews in this section.

Other mini‐reviews examine the role of hand‐assisted laparoscopy in urology, a contribution to the sometimes heated argument about whether laparoscopy should be ‘pure’ or hand‐assisted: in addition, two mini‐reviews describe the role of photodynamic diagnosis in managing superficial bladder cancer, and the contribution of non‐surgical factors to the success of hypospadias repair.
Does neoadjuvant hormone therapy for early prostate cancer affect cognition? Results from a pilot study
Authors: Jenkins Valerie A. , Bloomfield David J. , Shilling Valerie M. , Edginton Trudi L.
Published: June 2005

OBJECTIVE

To examine, in a prospective study, the influence that temporary reversible medical castration for localized prostate cancer has on cognition, by assessing whether temporary 3–5 month treatment with a luteinizing‐hormone releasing hormone (LHRH) agonist before radical radiotherapy had a short‐ or long‐term affect on cognitive function.

PATIENTS, SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Thirty‐two patients with localized prostate cancer had cognitive assessments at baseline (T1) before the start of drug treatment, at 3 months (T2) or on completing drug treatment but before radiotherapy, and 9 months later (T3). Eighteen men with no prostate cancer (controls subjects) completed the cognitive tests at the same times. In addition, psychological functioning and quality of life were assessed at the same times, together with serum free and bound testosterone, β‐oestradiol and sex hormone‐binding globulin levels.

RESULTS

There was a significant cognitive decline (on at least one cognitive task) at T2 in 15 (47%) patients vs three (17%) of controls (odds ratio 4.412, P = 0.033). Most patients (nine of 15) who had a change in performance declined on tasks of spatial memory and ability. At T3 there was significant cognitive decline in 11 (34%) patients and five (28%) control subjects (odds ratio 1.37, P = 0.631).

CONCLUSION

This pilot study suggests that short‐term LHRH therapy for early‐stage prostate cancer has modest short‐term consequences on men's cognitive functioning; a larger prospective study is warranted.
The relationship between angiogenesis and cyclooxygenase‐2 expression in prostate cancer
Authors: Mukherjee Rono , Edwards Joanne , Underwood Mark A. , Bartlett John M.S.
Published: June 2005

OBJECTIVE

To test the hypothesis that angiogenesis in prostate cancer is associated with tumour invasion and metastasis, and that this is mediated through increased cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) expression.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Angiogenesis was assessed in 105 patients with either prostate cancer (79) or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH, 26) and these data correlated with levels of COX‐2 expression in the same dataset. The mean microvessel density (MVD) was analysed as a marker of angiogenesis, using the endothelial antigen CD34 stained by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

There was no difference in MVD in progressive tumour stages compared with BPH. There was a negative correlation between MVD and COX‐2 expression, but the effect of increased COX‐2 expression on MVD was not marked.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that COX‐2 drives tumour spread in prostate cancer by means other than the promotion of angiogenesis.
A prospective randomized trial comparing transurethral prostatic resection and clean intermittent self‐catheterization in men with chronic urinary retention
Authors: Ghalayini Ibrahim Fathi , Al‐Ghazo Mohammed A. , Pickard Robert S.
Published: June 2005

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether a preliminary period of clean intermittent self‐catheterization (CISC) before transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) improves bladder contractility and surgical outcome in men with chronic urinary retention (CUR), and whether pressure‐flow studies (PFS) before TURP predict the outcome.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study was a two‐centre, pragmatic and randomized trial. Included were 41 men scheduled for TURP with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), an International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) of > 7, benign prostatic enlargement and a persistent postvoid residual urine volume (PVR) of > 300 mL. They had conventional PFS using unphysiological filling. The patients then gave consent and were randomized into two treatment groups; the first had TURP after stabilizing renal function by indwelling catheterization if indicated, and the second was taught CISC. Men in both groups were reviewed at 3 and 6 months after surgery or the start of CISC, by the IPSS, urine culture and assay of plasma creatinine, and upper tract imaging and repeat PFS at 6 months. The primary outcome variables were IPSS, maximum urinary flow rate, voiding and end‐filling pressures, and mean PVR; secondary variables included treatment failure, complications and other urodynamic measures.

RESULTS

Of the 41 patients, 17 (mean age 67 years, range 52–84) were randomized to immediate TURP and 24 (mean age 69 years, range 55–85) to CISC. There was a significant improvement in IPSS and quality of life at 6 months in both groups (P < 0.001). In the CISC group there was a significant improvement in voiding and end‐filling pressures, indicating recovery of bladder function (P < 0.001 for each). Of the 41 men, nine (22%) with voiding pressures of ≤ 45 cmH2O had no significant improvement in symptoms or urodynamic variables. Detrusor overactivity was found in 17 (41%) patients, of whom six had upper tract dilatation which resolved after treatment.

CONCLUSION

The present results emphasize the usefulness of CISC in ensuring the recovery of bladder function in men with CUR. Measuring the voiding pressure before TURP can predict the surgical outcome. Both CISC and immediate TURP are effective for relieving LUTS and result in a better quality of life. A preliminary period of CISC before TURP for men with CUR and low voiding pressure may be valuable. The presence of upper tract dilatation is associated with high end‐void and end‐fill bladder pressures, and such men have a good outcome from surgery.
Mesenchymal cells infiltrating a bladder acellular matrix gradually lose smooth muscle characteristics in intraperitoneally regenerated urothelial lining tissue in rats
Authors: Moriya Kimihiko , Kakizaki Hidehiro , Watanabe Satoshi , Sano Hiroshi , Nonomura Katsuya
Published: June 2005

OBJECTIVE

To characterize serial long‐term histological changes in mesenchymal cells infiltrating a collagen‐based matrix, as in a hollow organ with differentiated urothelial lining created intraperitoneally by grafting cultured urothelial cells, mesenchymal cells with smooth‐muscle immunohistochemical characteristics infiltrated into the scaffold, despite no mesenchymal cells being seeded into the scaffold before grafting.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To regenerate a urothelial lining tissue intraperitoneally, rat urothelial cells were cultured and seeded with the feeder‐layer technique onto bladder acellular matrix (BAM). After 7 days of cultivation to attach urothelial cells on the BAM, the matrix was folded with the urothelial cells inside and grafted onto the mesentery of the previously partially cystectomized rat.

RESULTS

The grafted urothelial cells on the BAM, which formed a monolayer before grafting, stratified into three to four layers as early as 4 days after grafting. Although the regenerated urothelium became thinner with time, there was urothelial stratification and a peculiar angular appearance on the apical surface of the regenerated urothelium even after 56 days. The mesenchymal cells infiltrating the BAM showed positive immunohistochemical staining to α‐smooth muscle actin or desmin at 7 days. Subsequently, the number of actin‐ or desmin‐positive cells gradually decreased with time. On transmission electron microscopy, the infiltrating mesenchymal cells were characterized as myofibroblasts at 7 days. Smooth muscle‐like cells were identified at 14 and 28 days, and fibrocytes were the main population at 56 days.

CONCLUSIONS

Although epithelial‐mesenchymal interactions have been assumed to be one of the most critical factors in smooth‐muscle development, mesenchymal cells infiltrating the scaffold in this intraperitoneal regeneration model gradually lost smooth muscle characteristics with time. These results suggest that interactions between cultured urothelial cells and infiltrating mesenchymal cells alone could not maintain the smooth muscle character of infiltrating mesenchymal cells.
Allopurinol provides long‐term protection for experimentally induced testicular torsion in a rabbit model
Authors: Kehinde Elijah O. , Anim Jehoram T. , Mojiminiyi Olusegun A. , Al‐Awadi Farida , Shihab‐Eldeen Aida , Omu Alexander E. , Fatinikun Tunde , Prasad Asha , Abraham Mathew
Published: June 2005

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effect of five antioxidants on exocrine function of rabbit testes retained in situ for 24 h and 3 months after experimental torsion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The left testes of peripubertal rabbits were clamped for 60 min, after which the clamps were removed and the testes allowed to reperfuse. The right testes served as internal controls. There were eight rabbits in each of the following experimental groups: (a) sham; (b) 60‐min ischaemia followed by reperfusion; (c) 60‐min ischaemia followed by left orchidectomy. In five further groups, rabbits were exposed to 60‐min ischaemia followed by reperfusion, but received one of the following antioxidants before reperfusion: acetyl salicylic acid, ascorbic acid, allopurinol, quercetin or superoxide dismutase. Both testes were excised at 24 h or 3 months. The degree of lipid peroxidation, a measure of free radical damage, was assessed in testicular tissue homogenates by measuring the tissue levels of malondialdehyde (MDA). The Johnsen score was used to assess the morphological damage at 24 h and 3 months for each group.

RESULTS

At 3 months twisted viable testes allowed to reperfuse had higher MDA levels than controls; the left testes of rabbits treated with allopurinol had significantly lower MDA levels than untreated rabbits and rabbits given other antioxidants. Rabbits given quercetin, ascorbic acid or superoxide dismutase had lower (but not significantly) left testicular MDA levels than untreated rabbits, while rabbits given acetyl salicylic acid had even higher levels. Allopurinol‐treated rabbits had a Johnsen score of > 7.6 and those given other antioxidants had scores of < 7.6 at 3 months.

CONCLUSION

The twisted viable testis treated by orchidopexy contains high free radical levels at 3 months. Of the antioxidants studied, only allopurinol had a beneficial long‐term effect, by significantly reducing testicular MDA levels at 3 months.
The effect of moderate hypovolemia on cardiopulmonary function in dogs
Authors: Haskins Steve C. , Pascoe Peter J. , Ilkiw Jan E. , Fudge Mack , Hopper Kate , Aldrich Janet
Published: June 2005

Objective:To collate canine cardiopulmonary measurements from previously published and unpublished studies in instrumented, unsedated, normovolemic and moderately hypovolemic dogs.

Design:Collation of data obtained from original investigations in our research laboratory.

Setting:Research laboratory, School of Veterinary Medicine.

Subjects:Sixty‐eight dogs.

Interventions:Subjects were percutaneously instrumented with an arterial catheter and a thermodilution cardiac output catheter. A femoral artery catheter was percutaneously placed for blood removal.

Measurements and main results:Body weight, arterial and mixed‐venous pH and blood gases, arterial, pulmonary arterial, pulmonary artery occlusion, and central venous blood pressure, cardiac output, and core body temperature were measured. Body surface area, bicarbonate concentration, standard base excess, cardiac index (CI), stroke volume, systemic and pulmonary vascular resistance, left and right ventricular work and stroke work indices, left and right rate‐pressure product, alveolar PO2, alveolar–arterial PO2gradient, arterial and mixed‐venous and pulmonary capillary oxygen content, oxygen delivery, oxygen consumption, oxygen extraction, venous admixture, arterial and venous blood carbon dioxide content, arterial–venous carbon dioxide gradient, carbon dioxide production were calculated.

In 68 dogs, hypovolemia sufficient to decrease mean arterial blood pressure (ABPm) to an average of 62 mmHg, was associated with the following changes: arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) decreased from 40.0 to 32.9 mmHg; arterial base deficit (BDa) increased from −2.2 to −6.3 mEq/L; lactate increased from 0.85 to 10.7 mm/L, and arterial pH (pHa) did not change. Arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) increased from 100.5 to 108.3 mmHg while mixed‐venous PO2(PmvO2) decreased from 49.1 to 34.1 mmHg. Arterial and mixed‐venous oxygen content (CaO2and CmvO2) decreased from 17.5 to 16.5 and 13.8 to 9.6 mL/dL, respectively. The alveolar–arterial PO2gradient (A‐a PO2) increased from 5.5 to 8.9 mmHg while venous admixture decreased from 2.9% to 1.4%. The ABPm decreased from 100 to 62 mmHg; pulmonary arterial pressure (PAPm) decreased from 13.6 to 6.4 mmHg; and pulmonary arterial occlusion pressure (PAOP) decreased from 4.9 to 0.1 mmHg. CI decreased from 4.31 to 2.02 L/min/m2. Systemic and pulmonary vascular resistance (SVRI and PVRI) increased from 1962 to 2753 and 189 to 269 dyn s/cm5, respectively. Oxygen delivery (DO2) decreased from 787 to 340 mL/min/m2while oxygen consumption (VO2) decreased from 172 to 141 mL/min/m2. Oxygen extraction increased from 20.9% to 42.3%.

Conclusions:Moderate hypovolemia caused CI and oxygen delivery to decrease to 47% and 42% of baseline. Oxygen extraction, however, doubled and, therefore, oxygen consumption decreased only to 82% of baseline.
Emergency presentations of 4 dogs with suspected neurologic toxoplasmosis
Authors: Tarlow Jeremy M. , Rudloff Elke , Lichtenberger Marla , Kirby Rebecca
Published: June 2005

Objective:To review the signalment, clinical signs, abnormal laboratory data, therapeutics, and response to therapy of dogs with clinical signs consistent with toxoplasmosis infection.

Series summary:A retrospective review was performed on the records of 4 dogs presented to the Animal Emergency Center between January 1998 and February 2000 exhibiting neurologic signs and having elevated titers forToxoplasma gondii. A tentative diagnosis of toxoplasmosis was based upon one of the following criteria: (1) a serial 4‐fold or greater change in serumT. gondiiIgG titers; 2) serially decreasing serumT. gondiiIgM titers with concurrent increasing serumT. gondiiIgG titers; or 3) positive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)T. gondiititers. In addition, inclusion of cases was limited to dogs that showed improvement of neurologic signs following treatment with antiprotozoal drugs. Trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole treatment was associated with successful elimination of clinical signs in all of the dogs. Two of the dogs developed side effects potentially attributed to the trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole (TMS), and antiprotozoal treatment was continued using clindamycin.

Unique information presented:Toxoplasmosis is an important differential diagnosis in any dog that presents as an emergency with central or peripheral neurologic signs. Affected dogs need not be immunocompromised for clinical signs of toxoplasmosis to occur. Appropriate treatment with TMS or clindamycin can lead to resolution of clinical signs.
Hypocalcemia in a critically ill patient
Authors: Wills Tamara B. , Bohn Andrea A. , Martin Linda G.
Published: June 2005

Objective:To present a case of clinical hypocalcemia in a critically ill septic dog.

Case summary:A 12‐year old, female spayed English sheepdog presented in septic shock 5 days following hemilaminectomy surgery.Streptococcus caniswas cultured from the incision site. Seven days after surgery, muscle tremors were noted and a subsequent low serum ionized calcium level was measured and treated. Intensive monitoring, fluid therapy, and antibiotic treatment were continued because of the sepsis and hypocalcemia, but the dog was euthanized 2 weeks after surgery.

New or unique information provided:Low serum ionized calcium levels are a common finding in critically ill human patients, especially in cases of sepsis, pancreatitis, and rhabdomyolysis. In veterinary patients, sepsis or streptococcal infections are not commonly thought of as a contributing factor for hypocalcemia. Potential mechanisms of low serum ionized calcium levels in critically ill patients include intracellular accumulation of calcium ions, altered sensitivity and function of the parathyroid gland, alterations in Vitamin D levels or activity, renal loss of calcium, and severe hypomagnesemia. Pro‐inflammatory cytokines and calcitonin have also been proposed to contribute to low ionized calcium in the critically ill. Many veterinarians rely on total calcium levels instead of serum ionized calcium levels to assess critical patients and may be missing the development of hypocalcemia. Serum ionized calcium levels are recommended over total calcium levels to evaluate critically ill veterinary patients.
The use of 25% human serum albumin: outcome and efficacy in raising serum albumin and systemic blood pressure in critically ill dogs and cats
Authors: Mathews Karol A. , Barry Maureen
Published: June 2005

Objective:To report on the use of 25% human serum albumin (25% HSA) (Plasbumin®), associated outcome, and efficacy in raising serum albumin and systemic blood pressure (BP) in critically ill dogs and cats.

Design:Retrospective clinical study.

Animals:Client‐owned cats and dogs.

Interventions:Administration of 25% HSA.

Measurements and main results:The medical records of 66 animals (64 dogs, 2 cats) at the Ontario Veterinary College, which received 25% HSA (Plasbumin®) from June 1997 to December 2001 were reviewed for age, body weight, clinical problems, albumin and globulin (g/L) levels pre‐ and within 18‐hour post‐transfusion and upon discharge from hospital, total solids (TS), systolic and diastolic BP pre‐ and post‐transfusion total volume administered, adverse reactions, blood products and synthetic colloids used, and outcome. Twenty‐five percent HSA was prescribed for a range of clinical problems, which were grouped into 6 categories for analysis. The age range was 4 months–12 years and body weight range 1.4–65 kg. The maximum volume administered to any dog was 25 mL/kg, mean volume administered was 5 mL/kg, maximum volume given as a slow push or bolus was 4 mL/kg with a mean of 2 mL/kg volume. The range for a constant rate infusion (CRI) was 0.1–1.7 mL/kg/hr over 4–72 hours. Forty‐seven (71%) animals survived to discharge; 11(16%) were euthanized, and 8 (12%) died. Serum albumin and TS increased significantly (P<0.0001) above pre‐transfusion levels as did systolic BP (P<0.01).

Conclusions:Twenty‐five percent HSA can be safely administered to critically ill animals, and an increase in albumin levels and systemic BP can be expected.
The burial chapel of Giuliano Guizzelmi and the demands of devotion
Authors: Maniura Robert
Published: June 2005

This paper examines the wall paintings of the burial chapel of Giuliano di Francesco Guizzelmi (1446‐1518) in Prato Cathedral (1506‐10). Drawing on the memoriale or memorandum book of the patron and a posthumous biography of him, it explores the significance of the images with reference to prominent features of his religious life; his devotion to a miraculous crucifix and his intended pilgrimage to the Holy Land. The study helps to clarify the centrality of the visual in the religion of the period and argues that images must be treated as integral parts of religious practice.
QUANTIFICATION OF LEFT VENTRICULAR MASS USING CARDIAC MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING COMPARED WITH ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY IN DOMESTIC CATS
Authors: MacDonald Kristin A. , Kittleson Mark D. , Reed Tracy , Larson Richard , Kass Philip , Wisner Erik R.
Published: June 2005

The hypotheses were that cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI) would accurately determine LV mass in domestic cats and would do so more accurately than echocardiography (ECHO). ECHO was performed on seven sedated cats. LV mass was calculated using the truncated ellipse formula from a right parasternal long‐axis view. T1 weighted gradient echo cMRI was acquired from anesthetized cats during multiple phases of the cardiac cycle. Short‐axis images were obtained by acquiring 3 mm thick contiguous slices perpendicular to the cardiac long axis. LV mass was determined using Simpson's rule. Endocardial and epicardial borders were traced on each slice at end‐systole, end‐diastole, and mid‐cycle and the difference in areas was myocardial area. Myocardial area was multiplied by slice thickness to calculate myocardial volume. Total (summated) myocardial volume was multiplied by myocardial density (1.05) to obtain LV mass at three measured phases of the cardiac cycle. Cats were euthanized and the LV was dissected and weighed to determine true mass. CMRI at end‐systole most accurately quantified LV mass and was more accurate than echocardiography (P=0.0078). Actual LV mass ranged from 6.5 to 10.5 g (mean=8.5 g, SD=1.6 g) compared with MRI LV mass at end‐systole, which ranged from 6.7 to 11.1 g (mean=8.7 g, SD=1.7 g) and echocardiographic LV mass at end‐diastole, which ranged from 5.2 to 9.1 g (mean=7.1 g, SD=1.8 g). Inter‐ and intraobserver variability for cMRI was 2%. CMRI obtained at end‐systole accurately and reliably quantifies LV mass in domestic cats. It is more accurate than the echocardiographic method used in this study.
COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY‐GUIDED FINE‐NEEDLE ASPIRATE AND TISSUE‐CORE BIOPSY OF INTRATHORACIC LESIONS IN THIRTY DOGS AND CATS
Authors: Zekas Lisa J. , Crawford Jason T. , O'Brien Robert T.
Published: June 2005

Medical records and computed tomography (CT) images were reviewed retrospectively for 30 animals (27 dogs, two cats, one cougar) in which CT‐guided intrathoracic fine‐needle aspirates (FNA) (12), core biopsies (10) or both (8) were performed. Sample interpretation was listed as diagnostic or nondiagnostic and nonneoplasia or neoplasia. Diagnostic results were inconclusive in 35% FNA and 17% biopsies. FNA and biopsy interpretations were in agreement in seven patients, one nonneoplasia, and six neoplasia. A clinical diagnosis was made in 65% FNA and 83% biopsies. When 18 patients with confirmed diagnoses were used, overall accuracy for diagnosis was 92% for FNA and biopsy and the sensitivity for neoplasia was 91% using fine needle aspirate and 80% using biopsy. Complications seen on CT images were noted in 43% of patients, four pneumothorax, five pulmonary hemorrhage, and four with both. No clinical manifestations were noted and treatment was not necessary. Significant correlation was noted between complications and penetration of aerated lung, but not with lesion location, type of disease, method of sampling, width of mass and depth of aerated lung penetrated. CT‐guided sampling is relatively safe and useful in the diagnosis of intra‐thoracic lesions, especially neoplasia. FNA samples are nondiagnostic more often than biopsy samples. Sub‐clinical pneumothorax and hemorrhage are common when aerated lung is penetrated.
SENSITIVITY AND SPECIFICITY OF RADIOGRAPHIC DETECTION OF CANINE ELBOW INCONGRUENCE IN AN IN VITRO MODEL
Authors: Blond Laurent , Dupuis Jacques , Beauregard Guy , Breton Luc , Moreau Maxim
Published: June 2005

Canine elbow incongruence is believed to be the consequence of underdevelopment of the radius. The purpose of this study is to determine the sensitivity and specificity of radiography to detect elbow incongruence in an in vitro model and to assess the optimal elbow angle and radiographic beam position. Five normal cadaveric canine left forelimbs were used. A four‐pin, type 1 external fixator with a linear motor side bar was fixed to the cranial part of the radius of each limb and a 1 cm segment of bone was removed from the mid‐diaphysis to allow radial shortening. Each elbow was subjected to the same protocol. They were radiographed at two different angles (90° and 135°) of flexion, with 10 different radiographic beam positions (centered on the humeral condyle, 3 cm cranial, 3 cm caudal, 3 cm distal, 3 cm proximal, 3 cm cranio‐proximal, 3 cm cranio‐distal, 3 cm caudo‐proximal, 3 cm caudo‐distal and on the shoulder joint) and at four different level of radial shortening (0, 1, 2 and 3 mm). In addition, a radiographic view centered on the elbows flexed at 135° was made after simulating weight bearing. The acquired digital images were independently evaluated by three evaluators unaware of the elbows status. The elbows were judged normal, incongruent or borderline based on specific criteria. The sensitivity for detection of elbow incongruence at and beyond 2 mm was excellent at 90° (median=100% for all views) and good at 135° (median=80%) of flexion with no difference between examiners. The sensitivity at 1 mm of incongruence was unchanged at 135° but was reduced at 90° of flexion (median=60%) with a significant difference between the evaluators. The specificity was significantly different between the evaluators and ranged from 70% to 90% at 90° of flexion and from 50% to 80% at 135°. The lowest specificities at 90° were obtained with the proximal displacements of the X‐ray beam. Simulating weight bearing significantly decreased the sensitivity at 1 mm (from 80% to 50%) and 3 mm (from 100% to 80%) of incongruence and slightly increased the specificity (from 55% to 65%). Radiography is a sensitive and specific test to detect moderate‐to‐severe radio‐ulnar incongruence (2 mm and over) if the elbow is flexed at a 90° angle regardless of the radiographic beam position. Finally, canine elbow incongruence appeared reduced after an in vitro weight‐bearing simulation.
142
Nd Evidence for Early (>4.53 Ga) Global Differentiation of the Silicate Earth
Authors: Boyet M. , Carlson R. W.
Published: June 2005

New high-precision samarium-neodymium isotopic data for chondritic meteorites show that their
142
Nd/
144
Nd ratio is 20 parts per million lower than that of most terrestrial rocks. This difference indicates that most (70 to 95%) of Earth's mantle is compositionally similar to the incompatible element–depleted source of mid-ocean ridge basalts, possibly as a result of a global differentiation 4.53 billion years ago (Ga), within 30 million years of Earth's formation. The complementary enriched reservoir has never been sampled and is probably located at the base of the mantle. These data influence models of Earth's compositional structure and require revision of the timing of global differentiation on Earth's Moon and Mars.
NEUTRINO MAGNETIC MOMENTS
Authors: WONG HENRY T. , LI HAU-BIN
Published: June 2005

Finite neutrino magnetic moments are consequences of nonzero neutrino masses. The particle physics aspects of the neutrino electromagnetic interactions are reviewed. The astrophysical bounds and the results from recent direct experiments are reviewed, with emphasis on the reactor neutrino experiments. Future projects and prospects are surveyed.
NONRELATIVISTIC CLASSICAL MECHANICS FOR SPINNING PARTICLES
Authors: SALESI GIOVANNI
Published: June 2005

We study the classical dynamics of nonrelativistic particles endowed with spin. Nonvanishing Zitterbewegung terms appear in the equation of motion also in the small momentum limit. We derive a generalized work-energy theorem which suggests classical interpretations for tunnel effect and quantum potential.
NUCLEAR PARTON DENSITIES AND STRUCTURE FUNCTIONS
Authors: TEHRANI S. ATASHBAR , KHORRAMIAN ALI N. , MIRJALILI A.
Published: June 2005

We calculate nuclear parton distribution functions (PDFs), using the constituent quark model. We find the bounded valon distributions in a nuclear to be related to free valon distributions in a nucleon. By using improved bounded valon distributions for a nuclear with atomic number A and the partonic structure functions inside the valon, we can calculate the nuclear structure function in x space. The results for nuclear structure-function ratio [Formula: see text] at some values of A, are in good agreement with the experimental data.
GENERAL VARIABLE SEPARATION SOLUTION AND EXOTIC LOCALIZED STRUCTURES OF NEW (2+1)-DIMENSIONAL SOLITON EQUATION
Authors: BAI CHENG-LIN , BAI CHENG-JIE , ZHAO HONG
Published: June 2005

By applying a special Bäcklund transformation, a quite general variable separation solution for new (2+1)-dimensional soliton equation is derived. In addition to some types of the usual localized excitations such as dromion, lumps, ring soliton, oscillated dromion and breathers soliton structures can be easily constructed by selecting the arbitrary functions appropriately, a new novel class of localized structures like fractal-dromion, fractal-lump, peakon, compacton and folded excitation of this system are found by selecting appropriate functions. Some interesting novel features of these structures are revealed.
ON INHOMOGENEOUS p-ADIC POTTS MODEL ON A CAYLEY TREE
Authors: MUKHAMEDOV FARRUKH , ROZIKOV UTKIR
Published: June 2005

We consider a nearest-neighbor inhomogeneous p-adic Potts (with q≥2 spin values) model on the Cayley tree of order k≥1. The inhomogeneity means that the interaction Jxy couplings depend on nearest-neighbors points x, y of the Cayley tree. We study (p-adic) Gibbs measures of the model. We show that (i) if q∉pℕ then there is unique Gibbs measure for any k≥1 and ∀ Jxy with | Jxy |< p-1/(p -1). (ii) For q∈p ℕ, p≥3 one can choose Jxy and k≥1 such that there exist at least two Gibbs measures which are translation-invariant.
Functional adaptation and remodeling of pulmonary artery in flow-induced pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Lam Chen-Fuh , Peterson Timothy E. , Croatt Anthony J. , Nath Karl A. , Katusic Zvonimir S.
Published: June 2005

Patients with left-to-right shunt congenital heart disease may develop pulmonary hypertension. Perioperative mortality of these patients is high due to abnormal vasoreactivity of the pulmonary artery (PA). We studied the changes in the PA induced by high pulmonary blood flow in rats with aortocaval fistula. Eight weeks after surgery, morphological changes of the PA were studied and vasomotor function was assessed by isometric force recording. Expression of endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase (eNOS), VEGF, and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) proteins and levels of cGMP in the PA were analyzed. Rats with high pulmonary blood flow developed pulmonary hypertension, medial thickening, and increasing of internal elastic lamina and basement membrane in the PA. When compared with sham-operated animals, rats with fistula had significantly increased contractions in the PA, whereas relaxations to acetylcholine and NO donor were reduced. Concentrations of cGMP were reduced in the PA of rats with pulmonary hypertension (18.4 ± 3.3 vs. 9.4 ± 1.7 pmol/mg protein; P = 0.04). The altered vasomotor function was normalized by treatment with indomethacin. The PA of rats with fistula expressed higher levels of eNOS, phosphorylated eNOS, and COX-2. Sustained high PA blood flow in rats causes pulmonary hypertension that is morphologically and functionally identical with patients with flow-induced pulmonary hypertension. Abnormal vasomotor function of the PA in these animals appears to be mediated by reduced availability and the biological effect of endogenous NO and the high production of vasoconstrictor prostanoids. Increased eNOS and phosphorylated eNOS are most likely the adaptive changes in response to an increase in PA pressure secondary to high blood flow.
Modest maternal protein restriction fails to program adult hypertension in female rats
Authors: Woods Lori L. , Ingelfinger Julie R. , Rasch Ruth
Published: June 2005

Modest maternal dietary protein restriction in the rat leads to hypertension in adult male offspring. The purpose of this study was to determine whether female rats are resistant to developing the increased blood pressure seen in male rats after maternal protein restriction. Pregnant rats were fed a normal protein (19%, NP) or low-protein (8.5%, LP) diet throughout gestation. Renal renin protein and ANG II levels were reduced by 50–65% in male LP compared with NP pups, but were not suppressed in female LP compared with female NP. Mean arterial pressure in conscious, chronically instrumented adult female offspring (22 wk) was not different in LP (LP: 120 ± 3 mmHg vs. NP: 121 ± 2 mmHg), and glomerular filtration rate was also not different in LP vs. NP. The number of glomeruli per kidney was similar in adult LP and NP female offspring (LP: 26,050 ± 2,071 vs. NP: 26,248 ± 1,292, NP), and individual glomerular volume was also not different (LP: 0.92 ± 0.11 106μm3, LP vs. NP: 1.07 ± 0.11 106μm3); the total volume of all glomeruli per kidney was also not significantly different. Thus female rats are relatively resistant to the programming for adult hypertension by perinatal protein restriction that we have described in males. This resistance may be due to the fact that modest maternal protein restriction does not reduce the number of glomeruli with which females are endowed as it does in males. The intrarenal renin-angiotensin system during development may play a key role in this protective effect of female gender.
Hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction in reptiles: a comparative study of four species with different lung structures and pulmonary blood pressures
Authors: Skovgaard Nini , Abe Augusto S. , Andrade Denis V. , Wang Tobias
Published: June 2005

Low O2levels in the lungs of birds and mammals cause constriction of the pulmonary vasculature that elevates resistance to pulmonary blood flow and increases pulmonary blood pressure. This hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (HPV) diverts pulmonary blood flow from poorly ventilated and hypoxic areas of the lung to more well-ventilated parts and is considered important for the local matching of ventilation to blood perfusion. In the present study, the effects of acute hypoxia on pulmonary and systemic blood flows and pressures were measured in four species of anesthetized reptiles with diverse lung structures and heart morphologies: varanid lizards ( Varanus exanthematicus), caimans ( Caiman latirostris), rattlesnakes ( Crotalus durissus), and tegu lizards ( Tupinambis merianae). As previously shown in turtles, hypoxia causes a reversible constriction of the pulmonary vasculature in varanids and caimans, decreasing pulmonary vascular conductance by 37 and 31%, respectively. These three species possess complex multicameral lungs, and it is likely that HPV would aid to secure ventilation-perfusion homogeneity. There was no HPV in rattlesnakes, which have structurally simple lungs where local ventilation-perfusion inhomogeneities are less likely to occur. However, tegu lizards, which also have simple unicameral lungs, did exhibit HPV, decreasing pulmonary vascular conductance by 32%, albeit at a lower threshold than varanids and caimans (6.2 kPa oxygen in inspired air vs. 8.2 and 13.9 kPa, respectively). Although these observations suggest that HPV is more pronounced in species with complex lungs and functionally divided hearts, it is also clear that other components are involved.
Dose-related effects of lauric acid on antropyloroduodenal motility, gastrointestinal hormone release, appetite, and energy intake in healthy men
Authors: Little Tanya J. , Feltrin Kate L. , Horowitz Michael , Smout Andre J. P. M. , Rades Thomas , Meyer James H. , Pilichiewicz Amelia N. , Wishart Judith , Feinle-Bisset Christine
Published: June 2005

We recently reported that intraduodenal infusion of lauric acid (C12) (0.375 kcal/min, 106 mM) stimulates isolated pyloric pressure waves (IPPWs), inhibits antral and duodenal pressure waves (PWs), stimulates release of cholecystokinin (CCK) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), and suppresses energy intake and that these effects are much greater than those seen in response to isocaloric decanoic acid (C10) infusion. Administration of C12 was, however, associated with nausea, confounding interpretation of the results. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of different intraduodenal doses of C12 on antropyloroduodenal (APD) motility, plasma CCK and GLP-1 concentrations, appetite, and energy intake. Thirteen healthy males were studied on 4 days in double-blind, randomized fashion. APD pressures, plasma CCK and GLP-1 concentrations, and appetite perceptions were measured during 90-min ID infusion of C12 at 0.1 (14 mM), 0.2 (28 mM), or 0.4 (56 mM) kcal/min or saline (control; rate 4 ml/min). Energy intake was determined at a buffet meal immediately following infusion. C12 dose-dependently stimulated IPPWs, decreased antral and duodenal motility, and stimulated secretion of CCK and GLP-1 ( r > 0.4, P < 0.05 for all). C12 (0.4 kcal/min) suppressed energy intake compared with control, C12 (0.1 kcal/min), and C12 (0.2 kcal/min) ( P < 0.05). These effects were observed in the absence of nausea. In conclusion, intraduodenal C12 dose-dependently modulated APD motility and gastrointestinal hormone release in healthy male subjects, whereas effects on energy intake were only apparent with the highest dose infused (0.4 kcal/min), possibly because only at this dose was modulation of APD motility and gastrointestinal hormone secretion sufficient for a suppressant effect on energy intake.
Expression of phospholemman and its association with Na+-K+-ATPase in skeletal muscle: effects of aging and exercise training
Authors: Reis Justin , Zhang Lianqin , Cala Steve , Jew Korinne N. , Mace Lisa C. , Chung Linda , Moore Russell L. , Ng Yuk-Chow
Published: June 2005

Phospholemman (PLM) is a recently identified accessory protein of the Na+-K+-ATPase (NKA), with a high level of expression in skeletal muscle. The objectives of this study are to characterize the PLM in skeletal muscle and to test the hypothesis that, as an accessory protein of NKA, expression of PLM and its association with the α-subunits of NKA is regulated during aging and with exercise training. PLM was characterized in skeletal muscle of 6- and 16-mo-old sedentary middle-aged rats (Ms), and the effects of aging and exercise training were studied in Ms, 29-mo-old sedentary senescent, and 29-mo-old treadmill-exercised senescent rats. Expression of PLM was muscle-type dependent, and immunofluorescence study showed that PLM distributed predominantly on the sarcolemmal membrane of the muscle fibers. Anti-PLM antibody reduced activity of NKA, and thus PLM appears to be required for NKA to express its full activity in skeletal muscle. Expression of PLM was not altered with aging but increased after exercise training. Coimmunoprecipitation studies demonstrated that PLM associates with both the α1- and α2-subunit isoforms of NKA. Compared with Ms rats, levels of PLM-associated α1-subunit increased in 29-mo-old sedentary senescent rats, and treadmill exercise has a tendency to partially reverse it. There was no significant change in PLM-associated α2-subunit with age, and exercise training has a tendency to increase that level. It is concluded that, in skeletal muscle, PLM appears to be a protein integral to the NKA complex and that PLM has the potential to modulate NKA in an isoform-specific and muscle type-dependent manner in aging and after exercise training.
Efficiency of the normal human diaphragm with hyperinflation
Authors: Finucane Kevin E. , Panizza Janine A. , Singh Bhajan
Published: June 2005

We evaluated an index of diaphragm efficiency (Effdi), diaphragm power output (Ẇdi) relative to electrical activation, in five healthy adults during tidal breathing at usual end-expiratory lung volume (EELV) and diaphragm length ( Ldi ee) and at shorter Ldi eeduring hyperinflation with expiratory positive airway pressure (EPAP). Measurements were repeated with an inspiratory threshold (7.5 cmH2O) plus resistive (6.5 cmH2O·l−1·s) load. Ẇdi was the product of mean inspiratory transdiaphragmatic pressure (ΔPdimean), diaphragm volume displacement measured fluoroscopically, and 1/inspiratory duration (Ti−1). Diaphragm activation, measured with esophageal electrodes, was quantified by computing root-mean-square values (RMSdi). With EPAP, 1) EELV increased [mean r2= 0.91 (SD 0.01)]; 2) in four subjects, Ldi eedecreased [mean r2= 0.85 (SD 0.07)] and mean Effdidecreased 34% per 10% decrease in Ldi ee( P < 0.001); and 3) in one subject, gastric pressure at EELV increased two- to threefold, Ldi eewas unchanged or increased, and Effdiincreased at two of four levels of EPAP ( P ≤ 0.006, ANOVA). Inspiratory loading increased Ẇdi ( P = 0.003) and RMSdi( P = 0.004) with no change in Effdi( P = 0.63) or its relationship with Ldi ee. Effdiwas more accurate in defining changes in Ldi ee[(true positives + true negatives)/total = 0.78 (SD 0.13)] than ΔPdimean·RMSdi−1, RMSdi, or ΔPdimean·Ti (all <0.7, P ≤ 0.05, without load). Thus Effdiwas principally a function of Ldi eeindependent of inspiratory loading, behavior consistent with muscle force-length-velocity properties. We conclude that Effdi, measured during tidal breathing and in the absence of expiratory muscle activity at EELV, is a valid and accurate measure of diaphragm contractile function.
Chiari Type 2 Anomaly Associated with a Thyroglossal Cyst
Authors: Orguc Sebnem , Tuncyurek Ozum , Serter Selim , Tarhan Serdar , Goktan Cihan
Published: June 2005

This is a case report of Chiari type 2 (C2) malformation associated with a thyroglossal duct cyst. A 3-month-old female patient with myelomeningocele was examined with cranial and spinal MRI. The imaging protocol included T1- and T2-weighted sequences. MRI revealed typical findings of C2 malformation and a thyroglossal cyst located at the base of the tongue. We hypothesize that occurrence of C2 malformation and the thyroglossal cyst is not totally independent, but instead, their association shown in the present case may be related to incomplete embryonic development. However, further studies and research are needed in order to prove this hypothesis.
Atraumatic Restorative Treatment with Resin-Modified Glass Ionomer Material: Short-Term Results of a Pilot Study
Authors: Dülgergil Çoruh Türksel , Soyman Mübin , Civelek Arzu
Published: June 2005

Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of the resin-modified glass ionomer (RMGI) material in atraumatic restorative treatment (ART) approach and compare RMGI with the high-strength traditional glass ionomer cement (GIC) in permanent teeth with one or more surface-carious cavities. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in a village school in rural southeastern Anatolia, Turkey. The RMGI and GIC restorations with the ART technique were placed randomly employing a split mouth design. In addition, the ART approach was used when necessary for both primary and/or permanent teeth with no pulpal involvement and no perceived pain before treatment. Ninety-one fillings were placed on contralateral molar pairs of 37 children. Baseline and 6-month evaluation of the fillings were made with the classic ART, modified Ryge and USPHS criteria. Results: Based on the ART criteria, 100% of RMGI and 92.4% of GIC restorations were classified as successful after 6 months, and the difference between the 2 groups was statistically significant (p = 0.009). While marginal discoloration was the commonest failure in the RMGI group according to both the modified Ryge and USPHS criteria, unsatisfactory surface texture and low anatomic form were the commonly seen failures in the ART technique. Conclusion: Generally, for each rating system, RMGI exhibited better clinical performance than GIC in all categories, except for marginal discoloration. Results based on the 6-month evaluation show that RMGI can be an alternative material to the GIC.
Molecular Etiology of Primary Hyperoxaluria Type 1: New Directions for Treatment
Authors: Danpure Christopher J.
Published: June 2005

Primary hyperoxaluria type 1 (PH1) is a rare autosomal-recessive disorder caused by a deficiency of the liver-specific enzyme alanine:glyoxylate aminotransferase (AGT). AGT deficiency results in increased synthesis and excretion of the metabolic end-product oxalate and deposition of insoluble calcium oxalate in the kidney and urinary tract. Classic treatments for PH1 have tended to address the more distal aspects of the disease process (i.e. the symptoms rather than the causes). However, advances in the understanding of the molecular etiology of PH1 over the past decade have shifted attention towards the more proximal aspects of the disease process (i.e. the causes rather than the symptoms). The determination of the crystal structure of AGT has enabled the effects of some of the most important missense mutations in the AGXT gene to be rationalised in terms of AGT folding, dimerization and stability. This has opened up new possibilities for the design pharmacological agents that might counteract the destabilizing effects of these mutations and which might be of use for the treatment of a potentially life-threatening and difficult-to-treat disease.