bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of four corn (Zea mays L.) herbicides when applied with flat fan and air induction nozzles
Authors: BROWN LYNETTE , SOLTANI NADER , SHROPSHIRE CHRISTY , SPIESER HELMUT , SIKKEMA PETER H.
Published: March 2007

Twelve field experiments were conducted over a 4 year (2002–2005) period to determine the influence of the herbicide dose, nozzle type, spray volume, and spray pressure on herbicide efficacy in field corn (Zea mays L.). The control of Abutilon theophrasti (velvetleaf ), Ambrosia artemisiifolia (common ragweed), Chenopodium album (common lambsquarters), Amaranthus powellii (green pigweed), and Echinochloa crus‐galli (barnyard grass) was improved with the use of full herbicide doses compared to half doses of bromoxynil, glufosinate, dicamba, and nicosulfuron. The yield was increased for bromoxynil, glufosinate, and nicosulfuron when the full herbicide dose was used. When applied at the manufacturer’s recommended dose, flat fan nozzles, compared to air induction (AI) nozzles, provided better control of A. theophrasti, A. artemisiifolia, and C. album with bromoxynil, A. artemisiifolia and C. album with dicamba, and E. crus‐galli with nicosulfuron. Bromoxynil, in relation to weed control, was the only herbicide that was affected by the water carrier volume. By increasing the spray pressure with an AI nozzle, there was an improvement in the control of A. theophrasti, A. artemisiifolia, and C. album with the application of bromoxynil and E. crus‐galli with the application of nicosulfuron, with a yield increase with bromoxynil. Overall, this study concludes that the optimum nozzle type, water carrier volume, and spray pressure is herbicide‐ and weed species‐specific.
Impacts of tillage and application methods on atrazine and alachlor losses from upland fields
Authors: WATANABE HIROZUMI , WATERMEIER NATHAN L. , STEICHEN JAMES M. , BARNES PHILLIP , PHONG THAI K.
Published: March 2007

The effects of tillage practises and the methods of chemical application on atrazine and alachlor losses through run‐off were evaluated for five treatments: conservation (untilled) and surface (US), disk and surface, plow and surface, disk and preplant‐incorporated, and plow and preplant‐incorporated treatments. A rainfall simulator was used to create 63.5 mm h−1 of rainfall for 60 min and 127 mm h−1 for 15 min. Rainfall simulation occurred 24–36 h after chemical application. There was no significant difference in the run‐off volume among the treatments but the untilled treatment significantly reduced erosion loss. The untilled treatments had the highest herbicide concentration and the disk treatments were higher than the plow treatments. The surface treatments showed a higher concentration than the incorporated treatments. The concentration of herbicides in the water decreased with time. Among the experimental sites, the one with sandy loam soil produced the greatest losses, both in terms of the run‐off volume and herbicide loss. The US treatments had the highest loss and the herbicide incorporation treatments had smaller losses through run‐off as the residue cover was effective in preventing herbicide losses. Incorporation might be a favorable method of herbicide application to reduce the herbicide losses by run‐off.
The future of food security in the Three Areas of Sudan
Authors: Matus Jason
Published: March 2007

Currently, the pace of recovery in the ‘Three Areas’ is moving faster than the implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA). This gap is leading to greater imbalances in income, unsustainable urbanization, overexploitation of the environment and resource based conflict. Unless regulated, the likely result will be chronic poverty and an undermining of the success of the CPA. Agencies must be mindful of how they provide assistance so that they support the CPA. The analysis of food security should take place in the context of a larger political, social and economic analysis of the emerging situation. The least developed areas should be prioritised and interventions should provide benefits to the full range of socioeconomic groups. WFP must identify its role in the wider and integrated response. It should support the emerging peace process and the key reforms. If WFP chooses to consolidate its activities, it will require capable strategic partners. If it chooses to invest more in building the capacity of government and community structures, it must improve its skill base and field presence
Food aid and development in southern Sudan: implications of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement for response planning
Authors: Sharp Buzz
Published: March 2007

In the post‐Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) era a greater impact on the unacceptably high prevalence of child malnutrition is more likely to come from additional investment and attention to education, health, hygiene, sanitation and childcare practices than from expanded food aid interventions. The negligible impact of food aid on malnutrition, although most commonly challenged on the quality of needs assessments, is equally attributable to the timing of deliveries, and a dysfunctional distribution system. Comparatively few resources have been allocated to strengthen skills for assessing, analysing and understanding community priorities, local economies, and social safety nets. A more thoughtful allocation of scarce funds could have more impact if a range of alternative responses was considered. Participation in and commitment to a more independent livelihoods analytical forum would improve communication with the new government, local leaders and other partners, as well as providing a platform for reaching consensus on both humanitarian and development planning over the next five years.
The 2006 Election and the American Future
Authors: BIRNBAUM NORMAN
Published: March 2007

President Bush decidedly lost the 2006 US congressional, senatorial and state gubernatorial and legislative elections, but did the Democrats win? They are somewhat revived and hopeful about the presidential contest of 2008. Their profound inner divisions, however, deprive them of capacity for sustained initiatives. Meanwhile, the imperial presidency thrives‐President Bush is defying both elite and public opinion. By escalating war in Iraq and preparing to attack Iran, we confront not just a new electoral cycle but a deepening crisis of US democracy.
From the Cycle of Deprivation to Social Exclusion: Five Continues
Authors: WELSHMAN JOHN
Published: March 2007

One important aspect of Tony Blair's speech on social exclusion, given to the Joseph Rowntree Foundation in York on 5 September 2006, has been ignored‐that its content was prefigured by Sir Keith Joseph, in his famous ‘cycle of deprivation’ speech, on 29 June 1972. This article seeks to explore these continuities over the past thirty‐four years, tracing similarities and differences between the two speeches. Moreover, it also reflects on the earlier Joseph speech and subsequent Research Programme, to see where government policies on social exclusion might lead. The article argues that while earlier writers have acknowledged the intellectual debt that New Labour owes to Joseph, and noted similarities between current policy approaches to child poverty and earlier debates about transmitted deprivation, recent moves on social exclusion mean that these continuities are now more striking than ever before.
Richard Layard's Happiness: Worn Philosophy, Weak Psychology, Wrong Method and Just Plain Bad Economics!
Authors: STEELE G. R.
Published: March 2007

Richard Layard believes that he has discovered the roots of happiness. He posits that: those in the West have been duped into playing the zero‐sum game of trying to outdo everyone else; that unhappiness is associated with all forms of rivalry; that happiness is located in the socialist ethos; and that pubic policy should be set to inhibit activities that bring extra income without extra happiness. When the salient features of the analysis are examined, they are found to be seriously flawed. Although Layard might be applauded for seeking to broaden the remit of economics, a narrow utilitarian preoccupation with activities that make life better or worse against a linear scale delivers an analysis of an amoral and self‐contained agency that reveals virtually nothing of the socio‐psychology of the human condition.
Economic, legal, and public policy issues influencing the creation, accessibility, and use of GIS databases
Authors: RHIND DAVID W
Published: March 2007

Rhind (1992) argued that government data policies and Intellectual Property Righr (IPR) considerations would play an increasingly large role in influencing the use of GIS. This has proved to be correct in general but the non‐technical factors affecting data collection, supply, and price have become ever more complex. Indeed, one characteristic of the present situation is that it is now impossible to consider the legal, economic, and public policy issues in isolation. Consequently, this paper sets out to identify the interactions between them and the areas of conflict. It draws upon the literature of a much wider area than traditional GIS. This approach is essential because of two factors. The first is that GIS databases are presently of modest commercial value compared to some other data and hence key decisions on IPR, etc are being made outside our discipline. The second is that the nature of GIS databases is mutating rapidly through the wider use of multi‐media and of the internet. It is concluded that the future is largely unpredictable in any detail since the interactions differ in different countries and at different moments in time. In many cases, however, revenue generation from sales or leasing of data or from services built upon data exploitation is likely to be a characteristic of both the public and the private sectors. Such charging has observable beneficial effects to set against the frequently claimed disadvantages, whether measured in financial, legal, or public access terms.
Biophysical aggregations of a forested landscape using an ecological diagnostic system
Authors: COUGHLAN JOSEPH C , RUNNING STEVEN W
Published: March 2007

We demonstrate a methodology for executing ecosystem models on large regional data sets by organizing and reducing their size prior to executing the model. A knowledge‐based (KB) classification method was constructed to aggregate large raster data layers into fewer biophysical landtypes as defined by a climate‐soil‐vegetation equilibrium. Statistical tests compared simulated seasonal water stress from raster data simulations to their KB landtype and verified that the KB classifications are ordered along a seasonal water stress gradient (p=0.95). The KB method produced a more distinct water stress classification than an alternative GIS overlay classification. Internal concepts modelled by the KB, such as snowpack persistence, were compared to simulated snowpack depletion dates for a range of sites. The KB exhibited the same sensitivity, in direction and magnitude of variation, as simulated snowpack depletion dates from the process model FOREST‐BGC. The KB method was 1000 times faster than the optimized versions of the physically based models, justifying the use of a KB as an efficient preprocessor to reduce a large database prior to ecosystem simulations.
Propagating effects of database generalization on the viewshed
Authors: FISHER PETER
Published: March 2007

Few studies have systematically examined the effects of different possible generalization methods on the products of GIS operations. In this paper the effects of generalizing a Digital Elevation Model (DEM) on the area which is determined to be visible (the viewshed) is examined. Among the many different methods of generalization which are possible, a limited set of operators is examined here. First, they all fit geometrically from one resolution to another, and they can be grouped into two types: regular sampling and statistical summaries. In the latter class four different operations are used: for any cell at the target resolution, elevations are determined, from the arithmetic mean, the maximum, the minimum, and the maximum difference from the mean of the cells within the kernel at the original scale. Changes in resolution of 0.5, 0.33, 0.25, and 0.2 of the original study area are studied at 100 viewing points in each of two study areas. At the original resolution a 120 × 120 pixel area was examined, giving generalizations to 60 × 60, 40 × 40, 30 × 30, and 24 × 24 pixels. The viewsheds determined over these different resolution DEMs are compared with a number of possible viewsheds derived by generalization of the viewshed over the original DEM. Of those tested, the maximum deviation from the mean within kernel emerges as the most reliable estimate of the pattern and area of the viewshed at all resolutions. The importance of this conclusion is that different generalization operators yield more or less faithful versions of the ungeneralized product (the viewshed), and it seems indicative that a similar variety in stability of the product with generalization operator will result in many, if not all, complex products of spatial analysis.
Simulating forest and habitat change in south‐east Alaska with the landscape model PAYSAGE
Authors: HANSEN ANDREW J , PATTEN ROBIN , DEGAYNER EUGENE , MARKS BARBARA L
Published: March 2007

We used the landscape model PAYSAGE to demonstrate the use of GIS and simulation models for ecosystem management over a portion of Mitkof Island in the Tongass National Forest. The objectives of the study were to: 1) depict the natural heterogeneity in environment and resource distributions across the study area; 2) quantify changes in vegetation and vertebrate habitats (brown creeper, orange‐crowned warbler, marten) during the period of commercial timber harvest (1954 to the present); and 3) simulate likely long‐term changes in vegetation and vertebrate habitat under three management scenarios – the Tongass Forest Plan, the wildlife habitat conservation strategy, and the Pacific Fisheries Task Force strategy. The results indicated that productive forest lands and vertebrate habitats are naturally patchy in the study area due to topography and climate. This natural fragmentation was exacerbated by past logging, which targeted high‐productivity old growth stands. This stand type was reduced in area by 76 per cent from 1954 to 1994. Patch density and mean patch size decreased during this time while mean nearest neighbour distance increased. Simulations of the three management scenarios for a 200‐year period projected relatively minor differences in landscape patterns among the scenarios. This is because the forest plan scenario is relatively restrictive in timber harvest and because most of the area protected in the other two scenarios does nor currently support old growth. We discuss the role of decision‐support tools such as PAYSAGE in adaptive ecosystem management and evaluate limitations of the model.
Decision makers' perspectives on European geographic information policy issues
Authors: BURROUGH PETER , CRAGLIA MASSIMO , MASSER IAN , RHIND DAVID
Published: March 2007

The proposals for a European policy framework for Geographic Information (GI) recently put forward by Directorate General XIII raise three sets of issues about measures required to facilitate the dissemination of GI in the European Union: (1)‘hot topics’ such as privacy and the legal protection of databases that apply to information generally; (2) GI issues such as reference data and metadata services that may require action by the European Commission; and (3) perceived barriers to the development of a European GI market. This paper examines the views of 20 experts responsible for the provision and management of GI in key organizations throughout Europe. A Delphi‐style strategy was used to identify the relative importance of the issues raised by the proposals and to ascertain the level of agreement as to the importance of these issues between the experts. The results show that issues relating to copyright, the protection of intellectual property rights, data quality, and data access policies were ranked highly by most of the respondents. A lack of awareness, education, and training (as opposed to the lack of public domain data and metadata services) were viewed as the main barriers to the deveiopment of the GI market in Europe.
Spatial understanding and decision support system: A prototype for public GIS
Authors: JANKOWSKI PIOTR , STASIK MILOSZ
Published: March 2007

The idea of public participation GIS involves the use of GIS tools to help laypcople understand the spatial consequences of proposed projects, evaluate alternatives, and create new solutions. The widening use of information networks creates opportunities for making GIS a widely accessible decision‐making tool, bypassing the constraints of location and time. This paper presents a prototype software that enables group collaboration across space and time using the Internet infrastructure. The prototype, called Spatial Understanding and Decision Support System (SUDSS), was designed to facilitate a controlled experiment in collaborative group work aimed at solving a realistic land‐use planning problem. The paper discusses design considerations for a distributed public GIS and presents the functionality of SUDSS using the example of group participation in developing a land‐use zoning plan.
A genetic algorithm for locating optimal sites on raster suitability maps
Authors: BROOKES CHRISTOPHER J
Published: March 2007

Locating optimal sites on raster suitability maps is a complex problem when the size of the sites is larger than the cell size. There are a number of techniques for generating suitability maps, but these maps are not solutions to the site location problem. Feasible solutions are clusters of contiguous cells which meet spatial criteria concerning the size and shape of the clusters. Locaring optimal sites involves a trade‐off between the intrinsic suitability of individual cells and the spatial configuration of cells. This paper describes a genetic algorithm which searches for optimal clusters and thereby locates optimal sites. The genetic algorithm uses a parameterized regiongrowing program to translate numeric strings into regions on a raster and employs raster GIS functions to evaluate utility scores. In a range of simulated problems, comparisons with an exhaustive search show that the genetic algorithm is efficient and robust. The results indicate that the genetic algorithm can find good solutions to real problems when exhaustive search methods are impractical.
Embedding production rules in a GIS
Authors: PULLAR DAVID
Published: March 2007

A long‐standing issue in GIS has been the need to provide support for more complex spatial models that have specialized Operations, but at the same time to take advantage of generic functionality provided by the GIS for visualizing, querying, and manipulating spatial features. Two approaches may be used to incorporate domain‐specific knowledge in computer software, namely object‐oriented programming and logic‐based programming. Based upon a commonly used data model and object‐oriented application framework available in modern GIS software, this paper explores integrating rules as a generic approach to building more meaningful spatial representations for land use and land control planning.
Ten things higher education needs to know about GIS in primary and secondary education
Authors: BEDNARZ SARAH W , LUDWIG GAIL
Published: March 2007

This paper examines the status of efforts to implement GIS in Kindergarten to Grade 12 (K‐12) education in the United States. Factors promoting and impeding the growth and diffusion of GIS are identified and suggestions for action on the part of higher education GIS specialists are made. In the United States more science teachers have adopted GIS geography/social studies teachers for several reasons. These include science teacher preservice preparation and the essentially different natures of the respective disciplines. Preservice education and teachers' perceptions of geography emerge as key factors influencing the diffusion of GIS in K‐12 classrooms. The need for on cognition and GIS before effective curricula and instruction can be developed is emphasized. Three strategies directed at higher education GIS specialists may help implement this eduational innovation. They are: (1) modelling GIS instruction in content classes; (2) including GIS in preservice preparation classes; and (3) outreach to professors who tach educational technology to educate than regarding GIS. The addendum by Paul Heinrich which follows this paper compares US and UK experiences in the diffusion of GIS in elementary and secondary schools.
Flexible delivery and social learning: Seeking a new geography of education for GIS and GIS in education
Authors: FORER PIP
Published: March 2007

This paper looks at GIS education in the context of changes in society and technology. It argues that socio‐economic pressures and technological change are both working to change the traditional dichotomous structure of tertiary education in respect of campus and distance learning models. In general, the changed lifestyles of a larger, less affluent student base are seen as combining with economic pressures on universities to create a mainstream demand for more flexible learning environments, a demand which new advances in applied information technology can assist in meeting. The paper considers these forces and how developments in educational technology in general are likely to impact on traditional methods of delivering GIS education.
Effect of mesocaval interposition shunting and repeated sclerotherapy on blood levels of gastrointestinal regulatory peptides, amino acids, and lysosomal enzymes ‐ a prospective randomised trial
Authors: Isaksson Björn , Hultberg Björn , Hansson Lars , Bengtsson Finn , Jeppsson Bengt
Published: March 2007

Abstract: Aims/Background: Patients with liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension frequently exhibit a multitude of alterations of hormones and metabolism, but the relation of these alterations to liver function, degree of blood shunting, and hepatic encephalopathy remains unclear. Methods: Twenty‐four patients were randomised to mesocaval interposition shunt (MIS) and 21 patients to repeated sclerotherapy (ST). Several peptide hormones, amino acids and lysosomal enzymes were monitored during a 4 year follow‐up period. Results: Insulin and glucagon levels were elevated in the MIS group compared to pre‐therapy levels, whereas the gastrin level was significantly higher in the ST group. Pancreatic polypeptide, somatostatin and vasoactive intestinal peptide levels were not affected by either treatment. The branched chain amino acids valine, leucine and isoleucine serum levels were all elevated after ST, and the arginine, proline and tyrosine levels were higher in the MIS group at follow‐up. Other amino acids were not changed, neither were the lysosomal enzymes beta‐hexosaminidase nor beta‐glucoronidase during this long‐term follow‐up. Conclusion: MIS or repeated ST treatment only affected serum levels of hormones, amino acids and lysosomal enzymes to a limited extent. In this trial, the type of treatment had only a small influence on these parameters during long term follow‐up.
Direct cytotoxicity of hypoxia‐reoxygenation towards sinusoidal endothelial cells in the rat
Authors: Blanc M. C. , Housset C. , Lasnier E. , Rey C. , Capeau J. , Giboudeau J. , Poupon R. , Vaubourdolle M.
Published: March 2007

Abstract: Aims/Background: Sinusoidal endothelial cells are the primary target of ischemia‐reperfusion injury following liver preservation. The present study was undertaken to examine the susceptibility of sinusoidal endothelial cells to hypoxia‐reoxygenation and the potential role of oxygen free radicals in the induction of cell injury. Methods: Sinusoidal endothelial cells were isolated from rat liver. After 2–3 days of primary culture, the cells were exposed to hypoxia (N2/CO2 95/5) for 120 min and reoxygenation (O2/CO2 95/5) for 90 min. Control cells were exposed to hypoxia alone, to 95% O2 alone or were maintained under normoxic conditions. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were used as a model of vascular endothelial cells and submitted to the same protocol. Cell viability and lipid peroxidation were assessed by LDH leakage and malondialdehyde production, respectively. In order to test the potential role of xanthine oxidase and mitochondria dysfunction in cell injury, the cells were treated with allopurinol and potassium cyanide (KCN) respectively. Results: The different gaseous treatments did not affect LDH leakage in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. In sinusoidal endothelial cells, the sequential hypoxia‐reoxygenation caused a significant increase in LDH release, malondialdehyde production and xanthine oxidase activity while hypoxia alone had no effect except on xanthine oxidase activity. Allopurinol inhibited xanthine oxidase without preventing cell injury or lipid peroxidation in this latter cell type. Conclusions: The results suggest that sinusoidal endothelial cells, as opposed to vascular endothelial cells, are susceptible to a direct cytotoxic effect of hypoxia‐reoxygenation. This effect occurs in combination with an increase in xanthine oxidase activity and lipid peroxidation, although cell injury is mediated at least in part by mechanisms independent of xanthine oxidase such as mitochondrial dysfunction.
Remission of autoimmune hepatitis during pregnancy: a report of two cases
Authors: Colle Isabelle , Hautekeete Marc
Published: March 2007

Abstract: Little is known about the evolution of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) during pregnancy. Some authors reported worsening of the liver disease during pregnancy, whereas others reported stable conditions. We present two untreated patients who had remission of the autoimmune hepatitis in the second half of their pregnancies. One of the patients exhibited this phenomenon twice during two consecutive pregnancies. We speculate that the immunosuppressive effect of pregnancy induced remission of the autoimmune hepatitis in our patients.
Genetic alterations in the S gene of hepatitis B virus in patients with acute hepatitis B, chronic hepatitis B and hepatitis B liver cirrhosis before and after liver transplantation
Authors: Rodriguez‐Frias Francisco , Buti Maria , Jardi Rosendo , Vargas Victor , Quer Josep , Cotrina Montserrat , Martell Maria , Esteban Rafael , Guardia Jaime
Published: March 2007

Abstract:Background: Several studies have shown that hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) imposes a selection pressure on the hepatitis B virus (HBV) S gene, and that the emergence of mutations in this region would make reinfection after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) possible.Aims: This study was undertaken to analyze the presence of HBV S‐gene mutations in the different stages of HBV infection and the relationship between HBIG therapy and the emergence of mutations in liver transplant recipients.Methods: The frequency and location of mutations in the coding region of the HBV S gene were studied by PCR and direct sequencing in 30 patients (7 with acute self‐limited hepatitis B, 16 with chronic hepatitis B and 7 recipients of (OLT) for HBV‐related end stage liver disease who became reinfected).Results: The average number of ammo acid changes was higher in patients with a more advanced stage of disease, 0.57 mutations/100 positions in acute hepatitis B and 1.57 in chronic hepatitis B (1.28 in HBeAg‐positive and 1.8 in anti‐HBe‐positive patients). The average number of substitutions in the transplanted patients was 2.7 before OLT and 3 after OLT. No amino acid substitutions were detected in the “a” determinant of HBsAg in acute hepatitis B, however, 8 substitutions were observed in 6 chronic patients. In 3 OLT patients, 4 substitutions were observed in samples before and after OLT. One of these patients, who had protective levels of anti‐HBs, showed 3 additional new amino acid substitutions after OLT, suggesting escape mutant selection by the effect of HBIG therapy. No changes were observed between the consensus sequences obtained several years before and after transplantation, indicating consensus sequence stability.Conclusion: These results show that there is an accumulation of HBV S‐gene mutations in HBV‐related end‐stage liver disease. Prophylaxis with HBIG mainly obtained from acute self‐limited hepatitis patients who have a highly homogeneous viral population, may be one factor underlying the reinfection after liver transplantation.
Down‐regulation of vascular α1‐adrenoceptors does not account for the loss of vascular responsiveness to catecholamines in experimental cholestasis
Authors: Dabagh Kamal , Said Omar , Lebrec Didier , Bomzon Arieh
Published: March 2007

Abstract: Aims/Background: Vascular hyporesponsiveness to sympathomimetic stimulation occurs in jaundice. Recently, we reported that this vascular adrenergic hyporesponsiveness was associated with the loss of reactivity of vascular α1‐adrenoceptors. This study examines the possibility that the vascular adrenergic hyporesponsiveness is due to down‐regulation of vascular α1‐adrenoceptors. Methods: This question was addressed by measuring the changes in the plasma norepinephrine (NE) and epinephrine (E) concentrations, determined by high performance liquid chromatography, and the affinity and number of α1‐adrenoceptors determined by a competitive antagonist radioligand binding assay in vascular smooth muscle membranes prepared from 3‐day bile duct ligated (BDL) rats. The results were compared to data obtained from 3‐day bile duct manipulated (sham‐operated; SO) and control (C) rats. Results: Compared to C and SO rats, the plasma concentrations of NE and E in the BDL rats were significantly elevated reflecting increased sympathetic nervous system activity. BDL did not change either the affinity or the number of vascular α1‐adrenoceptors. Conclusions: Since the affinity and number of vascular α1‐adrenoceptors were unchanged in the face of elevated plasma concentrations of catecholamines in the BDL rats, we have concluded that down‐regulation of vascular α1‐adrenoceptors does not account for the vascular adrenergic hyporesponsiveness in experimental cholestasis.
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis: a toxic liver disease in industrial workers
Authors: Cotrim Helma P. , Andrade Zilton A. , Parana Raimundo , Portugal Marcelo , Lyra Luiz G. , Freitas Luiz A. R.
Published: March 2007

Abstract:Aims: Occupational/environmental exposure to hepatotoxins has recently been implicated in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The aims of this study were to determine the presence and frequency of NASH in a large group of workers chronically exposed to several volatile petrochemical products in an industrial area in north‐east Brazil and to observe its course in workers removed from the work environment.Methods: 1500 asymptomatic workers were screened with standard liver blood tests during 1994–5. Those with elevated transaminases (>3× normal) on 3 occasions were evaluated further both clinically and with serum HBsAg, anti‐HCV, ferritin, lipids and autoantibody determination. Patients with either no etiological diagnosis, positive HBsAg/anti‐HCV serology and/or excess alcohol intake underwent liver biopsy. Those with obesity, diabetes or an isolated abnormal GGT were excluded. Of workers diagnosed as having NASH (compatible histology and no excess alcohol intake), a proportion were removed from the work environment and evaluated monthly with liver blood tests and a repeat liver biopsy 8–14 months later.Results: 112 workers had abnormal transaminases and 32 fulfilled the criteria for liver biopsy. 20 of these were classified as NASH, the remainder had viral hepatitis (n=6), alcoholic liver disease (n=5) or portal vein thrombosis (n=1). In all of the 10/20 who were removed from the work environment, their aminotransferases and GGT gradually decreased and their histology improved.Conclusions: These results demonstrate that NASH can occur following chronic exposure to volatile petrochemical substances in the workplace. Exposed workers should be regularly screened for the presence of liver damage and ideally removed from the work environment where possible.
Long‐term treatment of chronic hepatitis C with ursodeoxycholic acid: influence of HCV genotypes and severity of liver disease
Authors: Lirussi Flavio , Beccarello Alessandro , Bortolato Loris , Morselli‐Labate Antonio Maria , Crovatto Marina , Ceselli Silvia , Santini Gianfranco , Crepaldi Gaetano
Published: March 2007

Abstract: Aims/Background: Current therapy for chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is based on the administration of interferon alpha (IFN) alone or in combination with other anti‐viral agents. However, such therapy is effective in only a minority of selected patients. Long‐term ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) treatment has been reported to improve liver function and structure especially in cholestatic disorders. We investigated the effect of long‐term UDCA treatment on liver function in respect to the severity of chronic liver disease and HCV genotypes. Methods: Forty‐five patients with non‐cholestatic laparoscopy‐biopsy proven HCV‐associated chronic hepatitis (n=16) or cirrhosis (n=29) who had not responded to, or were unsuitable for IFN, were randomly assigned to receive UDCA (600 mg/day; n=23) or no therapy (n=22) for 12 months. At entry, all patients were evaluated by means of conventional and quantitative liver function tests (LFTs), including galactose elimination capacity and antipyrine clearance, HCV antibodies, HCV‐RNA and HCV genotypes. LFTs were measured at 6 and at 12 months, whereas HCV‐RNA was determined again after treatment. Results: Baseline characteristics were comparable in the two study groups. Long‐term UDCA therapy was well tolerated. Based on the analysis of variance, there was a significant decrease in serum transaminase, LDH and GGT levels in UDCA treated patients. By contrast, the activities of these enzymes increased in untreated patients, with AST levels reaching statistical significance only. Statistical analysis also showed that the improvement in biochemical markers was more pronounced in UDCA treated patients with liver cirrhosis than in those with chronic hepatitis but was similar in patients with HCV genotype lb and non‐1b. However, HCV‐RNA was positive in all patients after treatment. Quantitative LFTs remained, on average, stable over the 12 months of the trial in all groups. Conclusions: Long‐term UDCA treatment is well tolerated in patients with HCV‐associated chronic liver disease. The effect appears to be greater in cirrhotics than in patients with chronic hepatitis but is independent of HCV genotypes. Thus, long‐term UDCA treatment, despite the absence of an anti‐viral effect, seems beneficial in reducing disease activity in patients with chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis who are unsuitable for IFN therapy.
An in vitro model for the study of phagocytosis of damaged hepatocytes by rat Kupffer cells
Authors: Olynyk John K. , Britton Robert S. , Stephenson Alan H. , Leicester Katherine L. , O'Neill Rosemary , Bacon Bruce R.
Published: March 2007

Abstract: Aims/Background: One function of Kupffer cells is the phagocytosis of nonviable hepatocytes. Our aims were to develop a model for phagocytosis of damaged hepatocytes by rat Kupffer cells in vitro, and to characterise prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), prostacyclin (PGI), and tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF) production in this model. Methods: Kupffer cells were incubated alone or with damaged hepatocytes for up to 18 h, then washed and cultured for up to 66 h. To compare mediator responses produced during inert particle phagocytosis, Kupffer cells were also incubated with latex beads. Results: Phagocytic uptake of hepatocyte debris was confirmed in at least 50% of Kupffer cells. A dissociation between TNF and PGI responses was found for both latex beads and damaged hepatocytes, such that a TNF secretory response was not triggered by either stimulus whereas PGI production was increased for both. Although phagocytosis of beads increased PGE2 production, phagocytosis of hepatocytes did not. Conclusions: Phagocytosis of damaged hepatocytes by Kupffer cells results in the production of PGI but not PGE2 or TNF.
Altered thyroid status modulates portal pressure in normal rats
Authors: Oren Ran , Dotan Iris , Brill Shlomo , Jones Brett E. , BenHaim Menahem , Sikuler Emanuel , Halpern Zamir
Published: March 2007

Abstract: Background & Aims: Disturbances in thyroid function in humans and experimental animal models have been associated with alterations in liver function and portal circulation. We have previously shown that hypothyroidism can significantly reduce portal pressure in portal vein ligated rats as well as inhibit the development of cirrhosis and fulminant hepatic failure following toxic liver injury. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of increased and decreased thyroid function on portal pressure in rats with normal liver histology and portal circulation. Methods: Three groups of 12 Wistar rats each were studied over a 30 day period: euthyroid (Group 1), hyperthyroid (Group 2) and hypothyroid (Group 3). Hyperthyroidism was induced by subcutaneous injection of triiodothyronine (400 μg/100g body weight) every ten days during the study period. Hypothyroidism was induced by methimazole (0.04% in drinking water) from 2 weeks prior to and throughout the 30 day study. Serum triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels were determined to confirm the induction of hyper‐ and hypothyroidism. Portal pressure was assessed by direct catheterization of the portal vein prior to sacrifice. Indirect confirmation of changes in portal circulation was obtained by determining splenic weight at the time of sacrificing the animals. Animals were sacrificed at 10 day intervals throughout the 30 day study. Results: Triiodothyronine treated rats were hyperthyroid compared to controls, with an elevation in serum T3 levels (3.8±0.9 mmol/L vs 1.3±0.4 mmol/L, p < 0.05). In rats treated with methimazole, hypothyroidism was confirmed by a 7‐fold increase in serum TSH compared to controls (1.8 ± 0.4 vs 0.24 ± 0.04 mmol/L, p < 0.01). Portal pressure was significantly higher in the triiodothyronine treated rats compared to controls (12.8 ± 1.7 and 9.6 ± 0.75 cm H2O, p < 0.001). Splenic weights in hyperthyroid rats were significantly higher than in controls (579 ± 44 vs 478 ± 46 mg, p < 0.01). Portal pressure was significantly lower in the methimazole treated group compared to the control group (8.13 ± 0.68 vs 9.6 ± 0.75 cm H2O, p < 0.01) as were splenic weights (400 ± 33 vs 478 ± 46 mg, p < 0.01). Conclusion: These studies demonstrate that disturbed thyroid function exerts significant hemodynamic effects on the portal circulation in normal rats and complements results from previous similar studies in cirrhotic animals.
Intraluminal Tracheal Stenting for Treatment of Tracheal Narrowing in Three Cats
Authors: CULP WILLIAM T. N. , WEISSE CHICK , COLE STEVEN G. , SOLOMON JEFFREY A.
Published: March 2007

Objective—To describe the use of intraluminal tracheal stenting in 3 cats with either benign or malignant tracheal obstruction.

Study Design—Retrospective clinical study.

Animals—Three client‐owned cats.

Methods—Medical records were reviewed and information regarding signalment, clinical signs, physical examination findings, diagnostic tests performed, treatment, outcome and follow‐up were retrieved. Intraluminal tracheal stent placement was performed as previously described in the literature.

Results—Three cats received intraluminal tracheal stents for the treatment of tracheal obstruction due to 3 different underlying causes: stricture secondary to traumatic endotracheal intubation, stricture secondary to a previous tracheotomy, and neoplasia. Self‐expanding metallic stents of varying sizes were placed, and all cats recovered uneventfully from the procedures. The cat with tracheal neoplasia was euthanized because of pulmonary metastatic disease 6 weeks post‐stent placement. The two cats with tracheal obstructions secondary to benign strictures are currently 39 months and 32 weeks post‐stent placement, respectively. No complications were noted during the post‐stent period in any of the 3 cats.

Conclusions—Intraluminal tracheal stenting was easily, safely, and rapidly performed without complications and resulted in immediate improvement in clinical signs in all three cases. None of the cats in this study developed significant stent‐associated complications during the study period.

Clinical Relevance—Intraluminal tracheal stenting has the potential to be a viable option for the treatment of tracheal obstruction in cats and perhaps for similar disease processes in other veterinary patients.
Repair of Oronasal Fistulae Using Auricular Cartilage Grafts in Five Cats
Authors: COX CELIA L. , HUNT GERALDINE B. , CADIER MICHAEL M.
Published: March 2007

Objective—To describe repair of chronic palatine defects in cats, with free cartilage graft harvested from either the pinna (scapha) or vertical ear canal (annular cartilage).

Study Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—Cats (n=5) with chronic oronasal fistula.

Methods—Cartilage was harvested from either the scapha or annular cartilage and epithelium removed. After preparation of the edges of the palatal defect by separation of the oral and palatal mucosa circumferentially, the graft was inserted between the epithelial layers and secured without tension. The graft acted as a scaffold for migration of granulation tissue and epithelialization.

Results—Oronasal fistulae were successfully repaired in 5 cats (3 pinna grafts; 2 annular cartilage grafts); 1 cat required a second graft after the first graft was dislodged.

Conclusions—Auricular cartilage provides a reliable framework for repair of oronasal fistulae in cats.

Clinical Relevance—Chronic oronasal fistulae refractory to conventional repair can be treated by use of auricular free graft (pinna or annular cartilage) without disfigurement. Use of annular cartilage to support palatal repairs offers surgeons an additional option when other methods have failed. We recommend using conchal cartilage as the initial treatment approach for repair of small oronasal fistulae in cats.
Effect of Tibial Tuberosity Advancement on Cranial Tibial Subluxation in Canine Cranial Cruciate‐Deficient Stifle Joints: An In Vitro Experimental Study
Authors: APELT DETLEF , KOWALESKI MICHAEL P. , BOUDRIEAU RANDY J.
Published: March 2007

Objective—To evaluate the effect of tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) on tibiofemoral shear force as reflected by measurement of cranial tibial subluxation (CTS) and patella tendon angle (PTA) in the canine cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) deficient stifle joint.

Study Design—In vitro cadaver study.

Animals—Canine cadaveric hind limbs (n=10).

Methods—CTS and PTA were evaluated from lateral radiographic projections in axially loaded intact CrCL stifle joints, after transection of the CrCL, at a maximally advanced tibial tuberosity position, and at a critical point position. A custom‐designed hinge plate allowed alteration of the tibia to tibial tuberosity distance (Ti–TT) under axial load. Digitized radiographic images were used to quantify CTS, PTA, and Ti–TT. Comparisons within groups were made using 1‐way repeated measures ANOVA. A post hoc Tukey's HSD test was used to determine post‐ANOVA pair‐wise comparison within these groups. Significance was set at a value ofP<.05.

Results—CTS occurred after CrCL transection, which was significantly different from the intact position (P<.01). Subsequent stability of the stifle joint was obtained by advancing the tibial tuberosity. In the maximally advanced tibial tuberosity position, caudal tibial thrust was generated resulting in caudal tibial subluxation that was significantly different from the transected CrCL position (P<.01) and from the intact CrCL position (P<.01). Despite a stable joint, there was slight CTS at the critical point position, which was significantly different from the intact CrCL position (P<.05). The PTA at the maximally advanced position was significantly different from the intact, critical point and reference 90° PTAs (P<.01). The PTA at the critical point position was significantly different from the intact and maximally advanced tibial tuberosity PTAs (P<.01), but not different (P>.05) from the reference 90° PTA.

Conclusion—We demonstrated that advancement of the tibial tuberosity neutralized cranial tibial thrust, and converted cranial tibial thrust into caudal tibial thrust. Neutralization of tibiofemoral shear forces occurred at a PTA of 90.3±9.0°.

Clinical Relevance—TTA can effectively change the magnitude and direction of the tibiofemoral shear force, and thus may be used to prevent craniotibial translation in a CrCL deficient stifle joint.
A Review of Udo Schnelle and Francis Watson on Paul
Authors: Balch David L.
Published: March 2007

Abstract:  Since E. P. Sanders introduced the “new perspective” on Paul, Lutherans have had to ask again: did Luther understand Paul on the Mosaic law? The two books reviewed here carry forward the discussion Sanders began. Udo Schnelle's Apostle Paul makes two methodological choices with dramatic consequences for understanding Paul's theology and letters: 1) Paul was in direct dialogue with the Greco‐Roman culture of the cities where he preached the gospel and founded churches, and 2) Paul's Christology, ethics, and eschatology developed and changed in relation to the religious and political crises through which he struggled. Francis Watson's Paul and the Hermeneutics of Faith makes an obvious but novel decision to focus on the five books of Moses as read by Paul in dialogue with other contemporary Jewish interpreters, arguing that Paul's view of the “law” is his counter‐reading of the five books of Torah. Paul's hermeneutic exploits tensions and anomalies in the text of Torah itself, enabling him to emphasize God's promise, not the human deeds of scriptural heroes.
Heidegger on Luther on Paul
Authors: Stanley Timothy
Published: March 2007

Abstract:  When it comes to how Heidegger understands theology, Martin Luther was instrumental in his early formulations. Heidegger's interpretation of Luther leads him to descry theology as a discipline best left unfettered by metaphysics and this attitude is carried right through Heidegger's career. By explicating Luther's influence upon Heidegger's early Freiburg lectures from 1919‐1923, we can raise important questions about the nuanced way Heidegger construes Luther's theology in the hopes of inspiring key insights for Luther's appropriation in current post‐Heideggerian theology.