bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phosphorus adsorption by naturally-occurring materials and industrial by-products
Authors: Mortula Maruf , Gibbons Meaghan , Gagnon Graham A
Published: May 2007

Low cost and effective phosphorus adsorbents are required for the treatment of small or decentralized wastewater systems. The goal of this study was to examine phosphorus adsorption on different low-cost media. Bone char and oven dried alum sludge had the highest Freundlich adsorption constants (Kd) of 1.031 and 0.484, respectively. Maximum adsorption density from the Langmuir isotherm plot was 0.674 mg P g–1 for oven dried alum sludge and 1.787 for air dried alum sludge. pH levels at equilibrium were close to 7 for various dried alum sludge. Experiments conducted at 16 g/L of adsorbent on secondary municipal wastewater showed that all types of dried alum sludge and bone char were the most effective adsorbents of phosphorus. pH levels for oven and air dried sludge were in the range of 6.5–7, whereas the blast furnace slag and cement kiln dust exceeded a pH of 9. Consequently further work was recommended for water plant residuals.Key words: phosphorus, adsorption, Freundlich, Langmuir, alum residual.
Effect of substrate variability on activated sludge kinetics during the treatment of bleached kraft mill effluent
Authors: Helle Steve S , Duff Sheldon J.B.
Published: May 2007

Solids retention time (SRT) is the primary control parameter for activated sludge units. However, treatment performance in full-scale systems at pulp mills does not appear to be a direct function of SRT. To determine the extent to which substrate variability masks the effects of SRT, the effect of SRT on activated sludge treatment kinetics and stoichiometry during bleached kraft mill effluent (BKME) treatment were investigated during a three year laboratory study. The treatment performance was monitored by biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and respirometric assays using BKME, methanol, formate, and acetate as substrates to monitor the activity of different populations of biomass. BOD removal was unaffected by SRT, however COD removal increased with increasing SRT and increasing influent BOD concentration. The BKME respirometric kinetics were constant with respect to SRT. The methanol and acetate degradation rates were variable, but were not a function of SRT. The maximum formate degradation rate increased with SRT, as did the yield on formate. Changing wastewater characteristics produced larger changes in treatment kinetics than those produced by changing the SRT (over a range from 6 to 30 days) or by the addition of an aerobic selector. The proportion of the formate metabolic rate relative to the methanol metabolic rate varied over the course of the project with the wastewater composition. The time required to adapt to different BKME batches varied from 5 to 30 days, and did not seem to depend on any of the measured variables (BOD, COD, or SRT).Key words: activated sludge, respirometry, kinetics, BKME, SRT, selector.
Removal of endocrine disrupting compounds using a membrane bioreactor and disinfection
Authors: Spring A J , Bagley D M , Andrews R C , Lemanik S , Yang P
Published: May 2007

Membrane bioreactors (MBRs) in combination with appropriate disinfection may provide sufficient wastewater treatment to produce effluent suitable for non-potable reuse. However, the ability of this technology combination to remove endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) has not been well studied. This study found that prior to disinfection a MBR removed greater than 96% of the influent cholesterol, coprostanol, and stigmastanol from municipal wastewaters compared to greater than 85% removal in a conventional treatment plant receiving the same influent. MBR effluent EDC concentrations were also lower for estrone, 17α-ethynylestradiol, and bisphenol A. Disinfection of MBR effluent with chlorine, chloramines, and chlorine dioxide provided no significant additional removal of estrone, 17β-estradiol, or 17α-ethynylestradiol but could remove 95% of added bisphenol A. Ultraviolet light at a dose appropriate for non-potable reuse did not affect removal of the target EDCs.Key words: endocrine disrupting compounds, membrane bioreactor, conventional treatment, disinfection.
Measuring and modeling transport properties of actinide and fission product contaminants in unsaturated prairie soil
Authors: Sims David J , Andrews William S , Wang Xiaomei , Creber Katherine A.M
Published: May 2007

This paper presents the results of measuring and modeling the transport of actinides and fission products in unsaturated prairie soil based on the contamination from a storage tank in Alberta. In 1951, a release occurred from an underground storage tank of some 6.7 L of an acidic, aqueous solution containing an estimated 360 GBq (9.7 Ci) of dissolved mixed fission products in a 6.7 L acidic solution. The site where this occurred remained undisturbed for 50 years before soil samples were collected and analyzed for specific radionuclide content, namely Cs-137, U-238, and Sr-90. The measured diffusion coefficients (Dd) for the selected group of radionuclides were 3.0 × 10–4 cm2 s–1 (Cs-137), 1.5 × 10–5 cm2 s–1 (U-238), and 2.6 × 10–3 cm2 s–1 (Sr-90). Based on transport modeling, after a period of 250 years from the release, the Sr-90 plume would have its maximum concentration at a depth of 2.8 m, while the Cs-137 plume would have its maximum concentration at 0.5 m. It is predicted therefore, that if the three radionuclides should reach the water table depth (50 m) then they will be at a concentration lower than their clearance level values and, hence, will not pose a health hazard.Key words: transport modeling, unsaturated soil, radionuclides, diffusion coefficient, distribution coefficient, uranium, strontium, cesium.
Photolysis of aqueous free chlorine species (HOCl and OCl) with 254 nm ultraviolet light
Authors: Feng Yangang , Smith Daniel W , Bolton James R
Published: May 2007

The quantum yields of the UV photolysis of free chlorine (OCl– and HOCl) at 254 nm were measured in a series of batch reactor experiments from pH 5 to 10 and at various concentrations. When the concentration of free chlorine is low (3.5 mg Cl/L) to moderate (70 mg Cl/L), the quantum yields of HOCl and OCl– are 1.0 ± 0.1 and 0.9 ± 0.1, respectively. When the concentration increases to higher levels (>70 mg Cl/L), the quantum yield of HOCl photolysis increases significantly, whereas the quantum yield of OCl– photolysis is essentially independent of concentration. In addition, based on the experimental results obtained in this research, a mathematic model was developed that can be used for the prediction of the quantum yield for the UV photolysis of free chlorine at 254 nm. The quantum yields predicted by this model agree very well with the measured data. Also, the dependence of free chlorine decomposition on the fluence (UV dose) and the effect of water quality on the quantum yield of free chlorine species were investigated in this research. Key words: ultraviolet irradiation, free chlorine, fluence, UV dose, quantum yield, disinfection.
Pulsed UV lamp performance and comparison with UV mercury lamps
Authors: Schaefer Raymond , Grapperhaus Michael , Schaefer Ian , Linden Karl
Published: May 2007

Pulsed lamps based on electric discharges in xenon are of interest for water treatment because they are free of mercury, have instant-on capability, and may provide enhanced effects due to the high irradiance of pulses or spectral differences. This study provides quantitative comparisons of standard mercury UV lamps with both a commercial flashlamp and a pulsed surface discharge lamp. Unlike mercury lamps, the UV performance of pulsed lamps is a function of operating parameters. In this study the measured UV efficiency of a flashlamp, with a specified practical lifetime, increased as the pulse length decreased, from 4.4% at 796 μs to 9.0% at 71 μs. The surface discharge lamp, which overcomes limitations of flashlamps, had a measured UV efficiency of 17% at 12 μs. In comparison, standard commercial low pressure and medium pressure mercury lamps evaluated in this study had UV efficiencies of 34.6% and 12.2%, respectively. Key words: pulsed UV, water treatment, flashlamp, surface discharge, mercury.
Isoproterenol increases sorting of parotid gland cargo proteins to the basolateral pathway
Authors: Venkatesh Srirangapatnam G. , Tan Jinlian , Gorr Sven-Ulrik , Darling Douglas S.
Published: May 2007

Exocrine cells have an essential function of sorting secreted proteins into the correct secretory pathway. A clear understanding of sorting in salivary glands would contribute to the correct targeting of therapeutic transgenes. The present work investigated whether there is a change in the relative proportions of basic proline-rich protein (PRP) and acidic PRPs in secretory granules in response to chronic isoproterenol treatment, and whether this alters the sorting of endogenous cargo proteins. Immunoblot analysis of secretory granules from rat parotids found a large increase of basic PRP over acidic PRPs in response to chronic isoproterenol treatment. Pulse chase experiments demonstrated that isoproterenol also decreased regulated secretion of newly synthesized secretory proteins, including PRPs, amylase and parotid secretory protein. This decreased efficiency of the apical regulated pathway may be mediated by alkalization of the secretory granules since it was reversed by treatment with mild acid. We also investigated changes in secretion through the basolateral (endocrine) pathways. A significant increase in parotid secretory protein and salivary amylase was detected in sera of isoproterenol-treated animals, suggesting increased routing of the regulated secretory proteins to the basolateral pathway. These studies demonstrate that shifts of endogenous proteins can modulate regulated secretion and sorting of cargo proteins.
Placental insufficiency results in temporal alterations in the renin angiotensin system in male hypertensive growth restricted offspring
Authors: Grigore Daniela , Ojeda Norma B. , Robertson Elliot B. , Dawson Antoinette S. , Huffman Contrina A. , Bourassa Erick A. , Speth Robert C. , Brosnihan K. Bridget , Alexander Barbara T.
Published: May 2007

Reduced uterine perfusion initiated in late gestation in the rat results in intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and development of hypertension by 4 wk of age. We hypothesize that the renin angiotensin system (RAS), a regulatory system important in the long-term control of blood pressure, may be programmed by placental insufficiency and may contribute to the etiology of IUGR hypertension. We previously reported that RAS blockade abolished hypertension in adult IUGR offspring; however, the mechanisms responsible for the early phase of hypertension are unresolved. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine RAS involvement in early programmed hypertension and to determine whether temporal changes in RAS expression are observed in IUGR offspring. Renal renin and angiotensinogen mRNA expression were significantly decreased at birth (80 and 60%, respectively); plasma and renal RAS did not differ in conjunction with hypertension (mean increase of 14 mmHg) in young IUGR offspring; however, hypertension (mean increase of 22 mmHg) in adult IUGR offspring was associated with marked increases in renal angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) activity (122%) and renal renin and angiotensinogen mRNA (7-fold and 7.4-fold, respectively), but no change in renal ANG II or angiotensin type 1 receptor. ACE inhibition (enalapril, 10 mg·kg−1·day−1, administered from 2 to 4 wk of age) abolished hypertension in IUGR at 4 wk of age (decrease of 15 mmHg, respectively) with no significant depressor effect in control offspring. Therefore, temporal alterations in renal RAS are observed in IUGR offspring and may play a key role in the etiology of IUGR hypertension.
Inhibitory effects of excess sympathetic activity on parasympathetic vasodilation in the rat masseter muscle
Authors: Ishii Hisayoshi , Niioka Takeharu , Watanabe Hidekazu , Izumi Hiroshi
Published: May 2007

The present study was designed to examine the effect of sympathetic tonic activity on parasympathetic vasodilation evoked by the trigeminal-mediated reflex in the masseter muscle in urethane-anesthetized rats. Sectioning of the superior cervical sympathetic trunk (CST) ipsilaterally increased the basal level of blood flow in the masseter muscle (MBF). Electrical stimulation of the peripheral cut end of the CST for 2 min using 2-ms pulses ipsilaterally decreased in a dependent manner the intensity (0.5–10 V) and frequency (0.1–5 Hz) of the MBF. The CST stimulation for 2 min at <0.5 Hz with 5 V using 2-ms pulses seems to be comparable with the spontaneous activity in the CST fibers innervating the masseter vasculature, because this stimulation restored the basal level of the MBF to the presectioned values. Parasympathetic vasodilation evoked by electrical stimulation of the central cut end of the lingual nerve in the masseter muscle was markedly reduced by CST stimulation for 2 min with 5 V using 2-ms pulses in a frequency-dependent manner (0.5–5 Hz). Intravenous administration of phentolamine significantly reduced the vasoconstriction induced by CST stimulation in a dose-dependent manner (0.1–1 mg/kg), but pretreatment with either phentolamine or propranolol failed to affect the sympathetic inhibition of the parasympathetic vasodilation. Our results suggest that 1) excess sympathetic activity inhibits parasympathetic vasodilation in the masseter muscle, and 2) α- and β-adrenoceptors do not contribute to sympathetic inhibition of parasympathetic vasodilation, and thus some other types of receptors must be involved in this response.
Selective COX-2 inhibition markedly slows disease progression and attenuates altered prostanoid production in Han:SPRD-cyrats with inherited kidney disease
Authors: Sankaran Deepa , Bankovic-Calic Neda , Ogborn Malcolm R. , Crow Gary , Aukema Harold M.
Published: May 2007

Selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors appear to have beneficial renoprotective effects in most, but not all, renal disease conditions. The objective of our study was to examine the effects of COX-2 inhibition in a rat model of polycystic kidney disease. Four-week-old Han:SPRD- cy rats were given a standard rodent diet containing NS-398 (3 mg·kg body wt−1·day−1) or a control diet without NS-398 for 7 wk. In diseased rats, selective COX-2 inhibition resulted in 18% and 67% reduction in cystic expansion and interstitial fibrosis, respectively, but no change in renal function. NS-398 also ameliorated disease-associated pathologies, such as renal inflammation, cell proliferation, and oxidant injury (by 33, 38, and 59%, respectively). Kidney disease was associated with elevated renal COX-1 and COX-2 enzyme activities, and NS-398 blunted the increase in COX-2 enzyme activity (as indicated by 21 and 28% lower renal thromboxane B2and PGE2levels, respectively). NS-398 reduced urinary excretion of prostanoid metabolites in diseased rats. In summary, COX-2 inhibition attenuated renal injury, reduced the elevated renal COX-2 activity, and ameliorated disease-related alterations in prostanoid production in this rat model of chronic renal disease.
Neural Control of Superficial and Deep Neck Muscles in Humans
Authors: Blouin Jean-Sébastien , Siegmund Gunter P. , Carpenter Mark G. , Inglis J. Timothy
Published: May 2007

Human neck muscles have a complex multi-layered architecture. The role and neural control of these neck muscles were examined in nine seated subjects performing three series of isometric neck muscle contractions: 50-N contractions in eight fixed horizontal directions, 25-N contractions, and 50-N contractions, both with a continuously changing horizontal force direction. Activity in the left sternocleidomastoid, trapezius, levator scapulae, splenius capitis, semispinalis capitis, semispinalis cervicis, and multifidus muscles was measured with wire electrodes inserted at the C4/C5 level under ultrasound guidance. We hypothesized that deep and superficial neck muscles would function as postural and focal muscles, respectively, and would thus be controlled by different neural signals. To test these hypotheses, electromyographic (EMG) tuning curves and correlations in the temporal and frequency domains were computed. Three main results emerged from these analyses: EMG tuning curves from all muscles exhibited well-defined preferred directions of activation for the 50-N isometric forces, larger contractions (25 vs. 50 N) yielded more focused EMG tuning curves, and agonist neck muscles from all layers received a common neural drive in the range of 10–15 Hz. The current results demonstrate that all neck muscles can exhibit phasic activity during isometric neck muscle contractions. Similar oscillations in the EMG of neck muscles from different layers further suggest that neck motoneurons were activated by common neurons. The reticular formation appears a likely generator of the common drive to the neck motoneurons due to its widespread projections to different groups of neck motoneurons.
“Heterosynaptic” LTD in the Dentate Gyrus of Anesthetized Rat Requires Homosynaptic Activity
Authors: Abraham Wickliffe C. , Logan Barbara , Wolff Amy , Benuskova Lubica
Published: May 2007

Heterosynaptic long-term depression (LTD) is conventionally defined as occurring at synapses that are inactive during a time when neighboring synapses are activated by high-frequency stimulation. A new model that combines computational properties of both the Bienenstock, Cooper and Munro model and spike timing-dependent plasticity, however, suggests that such LTD actually may require presynaptic activity in the depressed pathway. We tested experimentally whether presynaptic activity is in fact necessary for previously described heterosynaptic LTD in lateral perforant path synapses in the dentate gyrus of urethane-anesthetized rats. As predicted by the model, procaine infusion into the lateral path fibers, sufficient to transiently block neural activity in this pathway, prevented the induction of LTD in the lateral path following medial path high-frequency stimulation. These data indicate that the previously described heterosynaptic LTD in the dentate gyrus in vivo is actually a form of homosynaptic LTD, requiring presynaptic activity in the depressed pathway.
Nonlinear Optimal Control Techniques for Vibration Attenuation Using Magnetostrictive Actuators
Authors: Oates William S. , Smith Ralph C.
Published: May 2007

This article addresses the development of a nonlinear control design for attenuating structural vibrations using magnetostrictive transducers operating in nonlinear and highly hysteretic operating regimes. We consider as a prototype a thin plate subjected to exogenous pressure waves and controlled via Terfenol-D transducers at the plate edges; however, the methodology is sufficiently general to encompass a wide range of structures and magnetic transducer designs. Hysteresis inherent to the transducer materials is quantified using a homogenized energy framework and the resulting nonlinear constitutive relations are used to construct a PDE representation and corresponding finite dimensional model of the structural system. We employ optimal control theory to construct nonlinear open loop control inputs which accommodate the hysteresis inherent to the transducers but are not robust with regard to unmodeled dynamics or disturbances. Robustness is incorporated by employing perturbation techniques to provide linear feedback laws acting on measured disturbances. As illustrated via numerical examples, the resulting hybrid control design provides excellent control authority and robustness for transducers operating in hysteretic and nonlinear regimes.
Compensation of Thermally Induced Distortion in Composite Structures using Macro-fiber Composites
Authors: Dano Marie-Laure , Gakwaya Myriam , Jullière Benjamin
Published: May 2007

This study investigates the use of macro-fiber composite (MFC) actuators to compensate thermal deformation in composite structures. The specific objective is to determine if MFC actuators bonded on the surface of a composite plate have the ability when actuated to counteract thermally induced deformations. Both finite-element analyses and experiments are presented. First, the response of an aluminum plate and a unidirectional composite plate both subjected to a MFC actuator is predicted. Next, the response of an unsymmetric composite plate with two MFC actuators bonded on the surface is studied. In the first step, a uniform temperature change is applied which induces a large change in the structure shape due to the laminate's unsymmetric nature. In the second step, the MFCs are actuated to compensate the thermally induced distortion. The results show that MFC actuators can eliminate thermal deformations when a proper amount of voltage is applied. Finally, a series of experiments are conducted to study the piezoelectric effects and provide data to compare with the finite-element results. Correlation between experiments and simulations is excellent.
Iron transferrin regulates hepcidin synthesis in primary hepatocyte culture through hemojuvelin and BMP2/4
Authors: Lin Lan , Valore Erika V. , Nemeth Elizabeta , Goodnough Julia B. , Gabayan Victoria , Ganz Tomas
Published: May 2007

The peptide hormone hepcidin is the principal regulator of systemic iron homeostasis. We examined the pathway by which iron stimulates the production of hepcidin. In humans who ingested 65 mg of iron, the increase in transferrin saturation preceded by hours the increase in urinary hepcidin excretion. Increases in urinary hepcidin concentrations were proportional to the increment in transferrin saturation. Paradoxically, in previous studies in primary hepatocytes and cell lines, hepcidin response to iron or iron transferrin was not observed. We now report that freshly isolated murine primary hepatocytes responded to holotransferrin but not apotransferrin by increasing hepcidin mRNA. Hepcidin increase was not due to contamination of the transferrin preparations by endotoxin, a potent pathologic stimulus of hepcidin synthesis. Using this culture system, we showed that holotransferrin concentrations regulate hepcidin mRNA concentrations through a hemojuvelin/BMP2/4–dependent pathway. Although BMP9 is known to be expressed in the liver and potently increased the basal concentrations of hepcidin mRNA, it did not interact with hemojuvelin, and interference with its signaling pathway did not affect iron regulation. Fresh primary hepatocytes constitute a sufficient system for the regulation of hepcidin by physiologic iron stimuli and will greatly facilitate studies of major disorders of iron homeostasis.
T-cell co-stimulatory molecules: their role in allergic immune reactions
Authors: Kallinich T. , Beier K. C. , Wahn U. , Stock P. , Hamelmann E.
Published: May 2007

The development of allergic diseases, such as allergic asthma, depends upon the initiation and maintenance of T-helper cell type-2-skewed allergen-specific immune reactions. Although it is clear that susceptibility to this process is under genetic and environmental control, the fine-tuning and regulation of the type-2 T-helper cell immune response is not yet fully understood. In this second article in the present series, current understanding regarding the involvement of T-cells and antigen-presenting cells is summarised, with emphasis on the interaction between these two types of immune regulatory cells by means of co-stimulatory molecules.
Macrophage expression of interleukin-10 is a prognostic factor in nonsmall cell lung cancer
Authors: Zeni E. , Mazzetti L. , Miotto D. , Lo Cascio N. , Maestrelli P. , Querzoli P. , Pedriali M. , De Rosa E. , Fabbri L. M. , Mapp C. E. , Boschetto P.
Published: May 2007

Interleukin (IL)-10 is expressed in many solid tumours and plays an ambiguous role in controlling cancer growth and metastasis. In order to determine whether IL-10 is involved in tumour progression and prognosis in nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC), IL-10 expression in tumour cells and tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) and its associations, if any, with clinicopathological features were investigated.

Paraffin-embedded sections of surgical specimens obtained from 50 patients who had undergone surgery for NSCLC were immunostained with an antibody directed against IL-10. TAMs and tumour cells positive for IL-10 were subsequently quantified.

IL-10-positive TAM percentage was higher in patients with stage II, III and IV NSCLC, and in those with lymph node metastases compared with patients with stage I NSCLC. High IL-10 expression by TAMs was a significant independent predictor of advanced tumour stage, and thus was associated with worse overall survival. Conversely, IL-10 expression by tumour cells did not differ between stages II, III and IV and stage I NSCLC.

In conclusion, interleukin-10 expression by tumour-associated macrophages, but not by tumour cells, may play a role in the progression and prognosis of nonsmall cell lung cancer. These results may be useful in the development of novel approaches for anticancer treatments.
A perturbation-based balance training program for older adults: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Mansfield Avril , Peters Amy L , Liu Barbara A , Maki Brian E
Published: May 2007

Background

Previous research investigating exercise as a means of falls prevention in older adults has shown mixed results. Lack of specificity of the intervention may be an important factor contributing to negative results. Change-in-support (CIS) balance reactions, which involve very rapid stepping or grasping movements of the limbs, play a critical role in preventing falls; hence, a training program that improves ability to execute effective CIS reactions could potentially have a profound effect in reducing risk of falling. This paper describes: 1) the development of a perturbation-based balance training program that targets specific previously-reported age-related impairments in CIS reactions, and 2) a study protocol to evaluate the efficacy of this new training program.

Methods/Design

The training program involves use of unpredictable, multi-directional moving-platform perturbations to evoke stepping and grasping reactions. Perturbation magnitude is gradually increased over the course of the 6-week program, and concurrent cognitive and movement tasks are included during later sessions. The program was developed in accordance with well-established principles of motor learning, such as individualisation, specificity, overload, adaptation-progression and variability. Specific goals are to reduce the frequency of multiple-step responses, reduce the frequency of collisions between the stepping foot and stance leg, and increase the speed of grasping reactions. A randomised control trial will be performed to evaluate the efficacy of the training program. A total of 30 community-dwelling older adults (age 64–80) with a recent history of instability or falling will be assigned to either the perturbation-based training or a control group (flexibility/relaxation training), using a stratified randomisation that controls for gender, age and baseline stepping/grasping performance. CIS reactions will be tested immediately before and after the six weeks of training, using platform perturbations as well as a distinctly different method of perturbation (waist pulls) in order to evaluate the generalisability of the training effects.

Discussion

This study will determine whether perturbation-based balance training can help to reverse specific age-related impairments in balance-recovery reactions. These results will help to guide the development of more effective falls prevention programs, which may ultimately lead to reduced health-care costs and enhanced mobility, independence and quality of life.
Mef2s are required for thick filament formation in nascent muscle fibres
Authors: Hinits Yaniv , Hughes Simon M.
Published: May 2007

During skeletal muscle differentiation, the actomyosin motor is assembled into myofibrils, multiprotein machines that generate and transmit force to cell ends. How expression of muscle proteins is coordinated to build the myofibril is unknown. Here we show that zebrafish Mef2d and Mef2c proteins are required redundantly for assembly of myosin-containing thick filaments in nascent muscle fibres, but not for the earlier steps of skeletal muscle fibre differentiation, elongation, fusion or thin filament gene expression. mef2d mRNA and protein is present in myoblasts, whereas mef2c expression commences in muscle fibres. Knockdown of both Mef2s with antisense morpholino oligonucleotides or in mutant fish blocks muscle function and prevents sarcomere assembly. Cell transplantation and heat-shock-driven rescue reveal a cell-autonomous requirement for Mef2 within fibres. In nascent fibres, Mef2 drives expression of genes encoding thick, but not thin, filament proteins. Among genes analysed, myosin heavy and light chains and myosin-binding protein C require Mef2 for normal expression,whereas actin, tropomyosin and troponin do not. Our findings show that Mef2 controls skeletal muscle formation after terminal differentiation and define a new maturation step in vertebrate skeletal muscle development at which thick filament gene expression is controlled.
Arthrodesis of the ankle in the presence of a large deformity in the coronal plane
Authors: Smith R. , Wood P. L. R.
Published: May 2007

A consecutive series of 23 patients (25 ankles) with osteoarthritis of the ankle and severe varus or valgus deformity were treated by open arthrodesis using compression screws. Primary union was achieved in 24 ankles one required further surgery to obtain a solid fusion. The high level of satisfaction in this group of patients reinforces the view that open arthrodesis, as opposed to ankle replacement or arthroscopic arthrodesis, continues to be the treatment of choice when there is severe varus or valgus deformity associated with the arthritis.
Treatment of displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children by a pin leverage technique
Authors: Lee H.-Y. , Kim S.-J.
Published: May 2007

This study aimed to evaluate the use of pin leverage in the reduction of Gartland type III supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children. The study comprised 95 children, who were split into three groups according to the type of method of reduction used. Group 1, had an open reduction, group 2, had closed reduction and percutaneous pin fixation and group 3, the pin leverage technique. Each group was analysed according to the time to surgery, the duration of the procedure, the incidence of complications, and the clinical and radiological outcome.

The mean duration of the operative procedure in groups 1, 2 and 3 was 119 minutes (80 to 235), 57 minutes (20 to 110) and 68 minutes (30 to 90), respectively. At a mean follow-up of 30 months (12 to 63) the clinical results were declared excellent or good in all children and the radiological results intermediate in five patients in group 2. The results of the closed reduction using the pin leverage technique was classified as failure in two children.

Our findings lead us to believe that the pin leverage method of reduction gives good results in the treatment of Gartland type III fractures.
Increased long-term mortality in patients less than 55 years old who have undergone knee replacement for osteoarthritis
Authors: Robertsson O. , Stefánsdòttir A. , Lidgren L. , Ranstam J.
Published: May 2007

Patients with osteoarthritis undergoing knee replacement have been reported to have an overall reduced mortality compared with that of the general population. This has been attributed to the selection of healthier patients for surgery. However, previous studies have had a maximum follow-up time of ten years. We have used information from the Swedish Knee Arthroplasty Register to study the mortality of a large national series of patients with total knee replacement for up to 28 years after surgery and compared their mortality with that of the normal population. In addition, for a subgroup of patients operated on between 1980 and 2002 we analysed their registered causes of death to determine if they differed from those expected.

We found a reduced overall mortality during the first 12 post-operative years after which it increased and became significantly higher than that of the general population. Age-specific analysis indicated an inverse correlation between age and mortality, where the younger the patients were, the higher their mortality. The shift at 12 years was caused by a relative over-representation of younger patients with a longer follow-up. Analysis of specific causes of death showed a higher mortality for cardiovascular, gastrointestinal and urogenital diseases. The observation that early onset of osteoarthritis of the knee which has been treated by total knee replacement is linked to an increased mortality should be a reason for increased general awareness of health problems in these patients.
Construct validity of the Enneking score for measuring function in patients with malignant or aggressive benign tumours of the upper limb
Authors: Wada T. , Kawai A. , Ihara K. , Sasaki M. , Sonoda T. , Imaeda T. , Yamashita T.
Published: May 2007

We evaluated the construct validity of the Musculoskeletal Tumour Society rating scale (Enneking score) as a functional measure for patients with sarcoma involving the upper limb. We compared the Enneking score by examining the correlation between two patient-derived outcome measures, the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire and the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36 (SF-36) as indicators of functional status in 40 patients with malignant or aggressive benign bone and soft-tissue tumours of the upper limb who had undergone surgical treatment.

The frequency distributions were similar among the three scoring systems. As for the validity, Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient of the Enneking score to the DASH questionnaire was −0.79 and that of the Enneking to the SF-36 subscales ranged from 0.38 to 0.60. Despite being a measure from the surgeon’s perspective, the Enneking score was shown to be a valid indicator of physical disability in patients with malignant or aggressive benign tumours of the upper limb and reflected their opinion.
In vivo measurement of tissue metabolism in tendons of the rotator cuff
Authors: Matthews T. J. W. , Smith S. R. , Peach C. A. , Rees J. L. , Urban J. P. G. , Carr A. J.
Published: May 2007

We have undertaken an in vivo assessment of the tissue metabolism and cellular activity in torn tendons of the rotator cuff. Cellular oxygen consumption was measured in 13 patients undergoing mini-open repair of small, medium, large and massive full-thickness tears. Measurements were also taken from three control patients who were undergoing open stabilisation of the shoulder with grossly normal tendons. The level of oxygen and nitrous oxide was measured amperometrically using silver needle microelectrodes at the apex of the tear and 1.5 cm from its edge. With nitrous oxide indicating the degree of perfusion, oxygen consumption was calculated at each location to reflect cellular activity.

All of the torn tendons had lower levels of cellular activity than the control group. This activity was lower still in the tissue nearest to the edge of the tear with the larger tears showing the lowest activity. This indicated reduced levels of tissue metabolism and infers a reduction in tendon viability.

Our findings suggest that surgical repair of torn tendons of the rotator-cuff should include the more proximal, viable tissue, and may help to explain the high rate of re-rupture seen in larger tears.
Bone allografts
Authors: Delloye C. , Cornu O. , Druez V. , Barbier O.
Published: May 2007

Bone allografts can be used in any kind of surgery involving bone from minor defects to major bone loss after tumour resection. This review describes the various types of bone grafts and the current knowledge on bone allografts, from procurement and preparation to implantation. The surgical conditions for optimising the incorporation of bone are outlined, and surgeon expectations from a bone allograft discussed.
A history of osteomyelitis from the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery
Authors: Klenerman L.
Published: May 2007

Osteomyelitis is one of the oldest diseases known. It took many years before the acute infection could be brought under control with antibiotics and chronic osteomyelitis remains difficult to manage. The modern history of the disease is reflected in the pages of the
A developmental study of the infrahumanization hypothesis
Authors: Martin John , Bennett Mark , Murray Wayne S.
Published: May 2007

Intergroup attitudes in children were examined based on Leyen's ‘infrahumanization hypothesis’. This suggests that some uniquely human emotions, such as shame and guilt (secondary emotions), are reserved for the in‐group, whilst other emotions that are not uniquely human and shared with animals, such as anger and pleasure (primary emotions), are attributed to in‐ and out‐groups alike. The present study explored Scottish 6 to 7 and 10‐ to 11‐year‐old children's ability to forecast the intensity and duration of primary and secondary emotions experienced by in‐ and out‐group members. Ratings of primary and secondary emotions forecast for national football teams (Scotland, in‐group and England, out‐group) for both a loss and a win, immediately after the game and 3 days later were recorded. As predicted by the infrahumanization hypothesis, forecasts for the intensity of secondary emotions experienced by the in‐group were significantly greater overall than those of primary emotions; while, for the out‐group, the intensity ratings for both emotion types were not significantly different. Importantly, this effect did not differ between age groups. These results demonstrate that even relatively young children discriminate between these types of emotion and provide qualified support for the generality of infrahumanization effects.
Surveillance for Ceratomyxa shasta in the Puget Sound Watershed, Washington
Authors: Stocking Richard W. , Lorz Harriet V. , Holt Richard A. , Bartholomew Jerri L.
Published: May 2007

Discovery of fish exhibiting clinical signs of ceratomyxosis in Washington State prompted concern over the potential impact of the myxozoan parasite Ceratomyxa shasta on native stocks of steelhead Oncorhynchus mykiss (anadromous rainbow trout). To investigate these concerns, a survey of 16 freshwater systems within the Puget Sound watershed, including Lake Washington, was conducted by sentinel exposure of susceptible fish (cutthroat trout O. clarkii and rainbow trout). Fish were exposed for 7 d during September 2003 and May 2004 and then were returned to a holding facility for monitoring of disease signs. Mortality caused by the parasite occurred only in the exposure group held at the University of Washington Hatchery, which receives its water from Portage Bay of Lake Washington. Fish from all other sites were negative for C. shasta, both visually and by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay, except for a single fish held at the Tumwater Falls Hatchery in September 2003. A single deformed spore was detected in that fish, but infection could not be confirmed by PCR and the parasite was not detected from any other fish held at that site during either the September or the May exposure. From these results, we conclude that C. shasta is not likely to have contributed significantly to the decline of steelhead populations throughout Puget Sound.
First Record of Bothriocephalus acheilognathi in the Rio Grande with Comparative Analysis of ITS2 and V4-18S rRNA Gene Sequences
Authors: Bean Megan G. , Škeříková Andrea , Bonner Timothy H. , Scholz Tomáš , Huffman David G.
Published: May 2007

Bothriocephalus acheilognathi is an introduced tapeworm in North America often reported as a serious ecological threat to native fishes. In this paper, we report the first record of B. acheilognathi in the Big Bend region of the Rio Grande in Texas (known as the Río Bravo del Norte in Mexico). Identification of B. acheilognathi was confirmed by morphologic and genetic techniques (sequences of ITS2 and V4-18S rRNA genes). Its prevalence was 27% and its intensity ranged from 1 to 5 individuals in a January 2006 collection of 115 red shiners Cyprinella lutrensis. In addition, it was found in the Tamaulipas shiner Notropis braytoni, a Rio Grande endemic and a new host record. The occurrence of B. acheilognathi might have negative ecological impacts on endemic fishes in the Rio Grande. Several of the fishes that could serve as definitive hosts are of conservation concern. Its occurrence also might affect the success of reintroducing the Rio Grande silvery minnow Hybognathus amarus, which is federally listed as endangered, in this portion of the Rio Grande.
Common Correlates of Suicidal Ideation and Physical Assault Among Male and Female University Students in Hong Kong
Authors: Chan Ko Ling , Tiwari Agnes , Leung W. C. , Ho Hesta W. Y. , Cerulli Catherine
Published: May 2007

This study examined prevalence and correlates of suicidal ideation and dating partner violence in a cohort of 651 university students in social sciences classes at three universities in Hong Kong. A standard questionnaire was completed within one class period to examine the rates of occurrence of physical assault perpetration and suicidal ideation. Separate rates are presented for male and female perpetrators and for severe and overall levels of violence. The differences between subjects having suicidal ideation are compared using t tests. Logistic regression is used to predict the presence or absence of physical assault in the preceding year of reporting and suicidal ideation based on the variables such as Personal Relationship Profile, age, relationship length, and socioeconomic status. Results showed that 55% of suicidal persons had a history of violence, whereas 39% of violent people had a history of suicidal ideation. Logistic regression showed that physical assault shared a total of seven associated factors with suicidal ideation. Suicidal ideation seems to have no direct relation to physical and sexual assault, but they do share some common associated factors that are essential for the development of suicide prevention.
Youth Violence Trajectories and Proximal Characteristics of Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Herrenkohl Todd I. , Kosterman Rick , Mason W. Alex , Hawkins J. David
Published: May 2007

Analyses first examined the developmental course of intimate partner violence (IPV), beginning with trajectories of youth violence. We then examined potential mediators of prior youth violence trajectories in models predicting later IPV perpetration as an outcome. Potential mediators include risks associated with the individual (e.g., current alcohol and drug use and mental health diagnosis), characteristics of a perpetrator’s partner (e.g., use of alcohol/drugs and history of antisocial behavior), and aspects of the surrounding community (e.g., neighborhood norms favorable to violence and drug use). Data are from the Seattle Social Development Project, a longitudinal study of over 800 individuals followed from elementary school to young adulthood (age 24). Findings suggest that both chronic and late-increaser patterns of youth violence elevated the likelihood of later IPV perpetration. Partial mediation effects of the relation between youth violence and IPV were found for variables related to one’s partner and the surrounding community. Individual characteristics of the perpetrator were not uniquely predictive of IPV when measured as a risk index and modeled along with other risk factors. Findings indicate that the risk of IPV could be lessened by addressing earlier forms of violence and by intervening to reduce risks within and across domains of influence.
Experience Shown to Affect Communication Skills of Nurse Case Managers
Authors: Haley Judy E.
Published: May 2007

A quantitative study investigated nurse case managers’ perceptions of their own communication skills used in client teaching. Using surveys based on the conceptual framework of Heron’s six-category intervention analysis, data were collected from 40 nurse case managers in 4 organizations. Results show that nurse case managers with more than 5 years of experience perceive themselves to be more skilled in facilitative communication categories than less experienced case managers. Overall, the less experienced study participants ranked themselves higher in authoritative communication skills. Facilitative skills are associated with helping clients become self-reliant and responsible for their care; therefore these skills are essential for effective case management. The study findings suggest additional training is needed for nurse case managers in the use of communication skill options.
Evaluation of the Effect of Subgingival Placement of Chlorhexidine Chips as an Adjunct to Scaling and Root Planing
Authors: Carvalho Juliana , Novak M. John , Mota Luis F.
Published: May 2007

Background: The purpose of this 9‐month study was to compare the effect of scaling and root planing alone (control) to that of scaling and root planing plus application of chlorhexidine chips (test).

Methods: Twenty‐six subjects having two non‐adjacent sites in non‐molar teeth with probing depth ≥5 mm and bleeding on probing participated in this split‐mouth trial. At baseline, the patients received full‐mouth scaling and root planing followed by placement of chlorhexidine chips secured by cyanoacrylate at test sites and placement of cyanoacrylate alone at control sites. Test sites still ≥5 mm deep at 3 and 6 months were retreated with renewed chlorhexidine chip application. Recordings of bleeding on probing, probing depths, and clinical attachment levels were performed at baseline, after 6 weeks, and after 3, 6, and 9 months.

Results: Improvements of bleeding scores, probing depths and clinical attachment levels were observed for both test and control sites at 6 weeks compared to baseline. Subsequently, all three measurements remained comparatively stable throughout the study. No differences in improvements were found comparing test and control sites.

Conclusion: This study failed to observe any adjunctive effect of subgingival placement of chlorhexidine chips after scaling and root planing.