bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Amygdala Subsystems and Control of Feeding Behavior by Learned Cues
Authors: PETROVICH GORICA D. , GALLAGHER MICHELA
Published: July 2010

Abstract:A combination of behavioral studies and a neural systems analysis approach has proven fruitful in defining the role of the amygdala complex and associated circuits in fear conditioning. The evidence presented in this chapter suggests that this approach is also informative in the study of other adaptive functions that involve the amygdala. In this chapter we present a novel model to study learning in an appetitive context. Furthermore, we demonstrate that long‐recognized connections between the amygdala and the hypothalamus play a crucial role in allowing learning to modulate feeding behavior. In the first part we describe a behavioral model for motivational learning. In this model a cue that acquires motivational properties through pairings with food delivery when an animal is hungry can override satiety and promote eating in sated rats. Next, we present evidence that a specific amygdala subsystem (basolateral area) is responsible for allowing such learned cues to control eating (override satiety and promote eating in sated rats). We also show that basolateral amygdala mediates these actions via connectivity with the lateral hypothalamus. Lastly, we present evidence that the amygdalohypothalamic system is specific for the control of eating by learned motivational cues, as it does not mediate another function that depends on intact basolateral amygdala, namely, the ability of a conditioned cue to support new learning based on its acquired value. Knowledge about neural systems through which food‐associated cues specifically control feeding behavior provides a defined model for the study of learning. In addition, this model may be informative for understanding mechanisms of maladaptive aspects of learned control of eating that contribute to eating disorders and more moderate forms of overeating.
Neuroimaging Abnormalities in the Amygdala in Mood Disorders
Authors: DREVETS WAYNE C.
Published: July 2010

Abstract:Neuroimaging technology has been applied to investigate the pathophysiology of mood disorders in studies aimed at characterizing the anatomical correlates of depressive symptoms, the neurophysiological effects of antidepressant treatments, and the trait‐like abnormalities that persist despite symptom remission. These studies have identified cerebral blood flow and metabolic differences between depressives and controls in the amygdala and anatomically related areas of the prefrontal cortex, striatum, and thalamus. Taken together with converging evidence from neuroendocrine, lesion analysis, and postmortem studies of clinically depressed subjects, these data suggest that emotional/stress‐response systems that include the amygdala are pathologically activated in major depression and that this activity is associated with dysfunction of the prefrontal cortex and monoamine neurotransmitter systems that normally modulate such responses.
Sexual Offender Recidivism Risk
Authors: HANSON R. KARL , MORTON KELLY E. , HARRIS ANDREW J. R.
Published: July 2010

Abstract: If all sexual offenders are dangerous, why bother assessing their risk to reoffend? Follow‐up studies, however, typically find sexual recidivism rates of 10%‐15% after five years, 20% after 10 years, and 30%‐40% after 20 years. The observed rates underestimate the actual rates because not all offences are detected; however, the available research does not support the popular notion that sexual offenders inevitably reoffend. Some sexual offenders are more dangerous than others. Much is known about the static, historical factors associated with increased recidivism risk (e.g., prior offences, age, and relationship to victims). Less is known about the offender characteristics that need to change in order to reduce that risk. There has been considerable research in recent years demonstrating that structured risk assessments are more accurate than unstructured clinical assessments. Nevertheless, the limitations of actuarial risk assessments are sufficient that experts have yet to reach consensus on the best methods for combining risk factors into an overall evaluation.
Juvenile Sexual Offenders
Authors: BECKER JUDITH V. , HICKS SCOTIA J.
Published: July 2010

Abstract: The incidence and prevalence of sexual offenses committed by juveniles are examined and current policies regarding juvenile sexual offenders are evaluated by considering the relevant psychological literature. Characteristics of juvenile sex offenders are reviewed, noting the heterogeneity of this population. Recent research on developmental pathways and typologies is presented, intervention strategies are reviewed, and recommendations for research and policy are made.
The Size and Sign of Treatment Effects in Sex Offender Therapy
Authors: RICE MARNIE E. , HARRIS GRANT T.
Published: July 2010

Abstract: We review scientific criteria for the minimally useful evaluation of psychosocial treatment for sex offenders. The Association for the Treatment of Sexual Abusers recently supported a meta‐analysis (Hanson et al., 2002) of the effectiveness of psychological treatment for sex offenders. It was concluded that current treatments for sex offenders reduce recidivism. In this chapter, we reevaluate the evidence. Whereas the random assignment studies yielded results that provided no evidence of treatment effectiveness, Hanson et al. reviewed approximately a dozen others (called ‘incidental assignment’ studies), which yielded substantial positive results for treatment. Upon close inspection, we conclude that such designs involve noncomparable groups and are too weak to be used to draw inferences about treatment effectiveness. In almost every case, the evidence was contaminated by the fact that comparison groups included higher‐risk offenders who would have refused or quit treatment had it been offered to them. We conclude that the effectiveness of psychological treatment for sex offenders remains to be demonstrated. Furthermore, we outline solutions that we think will lead to progress in the field of sex offender treatment.
Description of Parkinson's Disease as a Clinical Syndrome
Authors: FAHN STANLEY
Published: July 2010

Abstract:Parkinsonism is a clinical syndrome comprising combinations of motor problems—namely, bradykinesia, resting tremor, rigidity, flexed posture, “freezing,” and loss of postural reflexes. Parkinson's disease (PD) is the major cause of parkinsonism. PD is a slowly progressive parkinsonian syndrome that begins insidiously and usually affects one side of the body before spreading to involve the other side. Pathology shows loss of neuromelanin‐containing monoamine neurons, particularly dopamine (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. A pathologic hallmark is the presence of cytoplasmic eosinophilic inclusions (Lewy bodies) in monoamine neurons. The loss of DA content in the nigrostriatal neurons accounts for many of the motor symptoms, which can be ameliorated by DA replacement therapy—that is, levodopa. Most cases are sporadic, of unknown etiology; but rare cases of monogenic mutations (10 genes at present count) show that there are multiple causes for the neuronal degeneration. The pathogenesis of PD remains unknown. Clinical fluctuations and dyskinesias are frequent complications of levodopa therapy; these, as well as some motor features of PD, improve by resetting the abnormal brain physiology towards normal by surgical therapy. Nonmotor symptoms (depression, lack of motivation, passivity, and dementia) are common. As the disease progresses, even motor symptoms become intractable to therapy. No proven means of slowing progression have yet been found.
Transcriptional Control of Dopamine Neuron Development
Authors: WALLÉN ÅSA , PERLMANN THOMAS
Published: July 2010

Abstract:Recent studies have identified several factors that influence the development of midbrain dopamine (DA) neurons. The identity of early proliferating DA progenitor cells are specified by the secreted factors sonic hedgehog and fibroblast growth factor 8, derived from the floor plate of the ventral midline and the mid/hindbrain border, respectively. While transcription factors specifically expressed in the proliferating DA progenitor cells remain to be identified, several transcription factors important for postmitotic DA cell development have been characterized. These include Nurr1, Lmx1b, Pitx3, and En1/En2. The studies of these transcription factors have not only increased the understanding of how DA neurons are generatedin vivo, but also allowed the development of new strategies using stem cells for engineering DA neuronsin vitro, results that may have significance in future therapies of patients with Parkinson's disease.
Parkinson's Disease and Related α‐Synucleinopathies Are Brain Amyloidoses
Authors: TROJANOWSKI JOHN Q. , LEE VIRGINIA M‐Y.
Published: July 2010

Abstract: A paradigm shift in understanding Parkinson's disease (PD) and related disorders is emerging from studies showing that alpha‐synuclein (AS) gene mutations cause familial PD; AS is abnormally nitrated, phosphorylated, and ubiquitinated; AS forms neuronal and glial inclusions; AS fibrillizes in vitro; and AS transgenic animals develop neurodegeneration with AS amyloid inclusions. Thus, PD and related synucleinopathies are brain amyloidoses that may share similar mechanisms and targets for drug discovery.
The Relationship between Lewy Body Disease, Parkinson's Disease, and Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: HARDY JOHN
Published: July 2010

Abstract: The nosological relationship between Parkinson's disease, dementing syndromes with Lewy bodies, and Alzheimer's disease has been the subject of continuing debate. Here I argue, on the basis of recent data from families with hereditary versions of these diseases and from transgenic modeling, that these nosological debates are inevitable, impossible to resolve, and a product of the fact that we define diseases as entities rather than processes.
The 1‐Methyl‐4‐Phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐Tetrahydropyridine Mouse Model
Authors: PRZEDBORSKI SERGE , VILA MIQUEL
Published: July 2010

Abstract:Experimental models of dopaminergic neurodegeneration play a critical role in our quest to elucidate the cause of Parkinson's disease (PD). Despite the recent development of “genetic models” that have followed upon the discovery of mutations causing rare forms of familial PD, toxic models remain at the forefront when it comes to exploring the pathogenesis of sporadic PD. Among these, the model produced by the neurotoxin 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) has a competitive advantage over all other toxic models because once this neurotoxin causes intoxication, it induces in humans a syndrome virtually identical to PD. For the past two decades, the complex pharmacology of MPTP and the key steps in the MPTP neurotoxic process have been identified. These molecular events can be classified into three groups: First, those implicated in the initiation of toxicity, which include energy failure due to ATP depletion and oxidative stress mediated by superoxide and nitric oxide; second, those recruited subsequently in response to the initial neuronal perturbations, which include elements of the molecular pathways of apoptosis such as Bax; and, third, those amplifying the neurodegenerative insult, which include various proinflammatory factors such as prostaglandins. Herein, these different contributing factors are reviewed, as is the sequence in which it is believed these factors are acting within the cascade of events responsible for the death of dopaminergic neurons in the MPTP model and in PD. How to target these factors to devise effective neuroprotective therapies for PD is also discussed.
COX‐2 and Neurodegeneration in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: TEISMANN P. , VILA M. , CHOI D.‐K. , TIEU K. , WU D. C. , JACKSON‐LEWIS V. , PRZEDBORSKI S.
Published: July 2010

Abstract:Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. Recent observations link cyclooxygenase type‐2 (COX‐2) to the progression of the disease. Consistent with this notion, studies with the dopaminergic neurotoxin 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) show that inhibition and ablation of COX‐2 markedly reduce the deleterious effects of this toxin on the nigrostriatal pathway. The similarity between this experimental model and PD strongly supports the possibility that COX‐2 expression is also pathogenic in PD.
Activation of Neuroprotective Pathways by Metabotropic Group I Glutamate Receptors: A Potential Target for Drug Discovery?
Authors: BASKYS ANDRIUS , FANG LIWEI , BAYAZITOV ILDAR
Published: July 2010

Stroke neuroprotection trials suggest that pharmacological manipulations of a single neuroprotective mechanism are generally ineffective and that new approaches, possibly involving simultaneous manipulations of multiple mechanisms, need to be sought. To identify optimal components for such a multipronged approach, we studied NMDA receptor activation‐induced cell death in organotypic hippocampal culture preparations as a model of excitotoxicity. Metabotropic group I glutamate receptor (mGluR) activation by their selective agonist, (S)‐3,5‐dihydroxyphenylglycine (DHPG), resulted in concentration‐dependent reduction of nerve cell susceptibility to NMDA‐mediated injury (neuroprotective effect). The neuroprotection was mediated primarily by mGluR1, required phospholipase C activation, was inhibited by cholesterol‐containing methyl‐β‐cyclodextrin treatment, and occluded by antipsychotic quetiapine. It was associated with suppression of NMDA currents and prolongation of GABAAreceptor‐mediated currents in DHPG‐treated cultures. cDNA microarray analysis of 1128 brain‐relevant genes revealed that mGluR‐mediated neuroprotection was associated with simultaneous activation of endocytosis, and inactivation of inflammation, cell adhesion, cell death, and transcription‐related genes. Antisense inhibition of Rab5b, a gene coding for a small GTPase associated with endocytosis, significantly reduced the mGluR‐mediated neuroprotection. These findings expand our understanding of the role that mGluRs play in regulation of nerve cell susceptibility to injury and should facilitate the design of novel therapeutic strategies for stroke and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Electrospinning of Poly(vinyl alcohol) Nanofibers Loaded with Hexadecane Nanodroplets
Authors: Arecchi A. , Mannino S. , Weiss J.
Published: July 2010

Abstract:  The feasibility of producing poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanofibers containing fine‐disperse hexadecane droplets by electrospinning a blend of hexadecane‐in‐water emulsions and PVA was investigated. Hexadecane oil‐in‐water nanoemulsions (d10= 181.2 ± 0.1 nm) were mixed with PVA at pH 4.5 to yield polymer‐emulsion blends containing 0.5 to 1.5 wt% oil droplets and 8‐wt% PVA. The solution properties of emulsions and emulsion‐PVA blends (viscosity, conductivity, surface tension) were determined. Solutions were electrospun and the morphology and thermal properties of deposited fiber mats characterized by scanning electron microscopy and differential scanning calorimetry. Fiber mats were dissolved in buffer to liberate incorporated hexadecane droplets and the buffer solutions analyzed by optical microscopy, UV‐spectroscopy, and light scattering. Analysis of dry fiber mats and their solutions showed that emulsion droplets were indeed part of the electrospun fiber structures. Depending on the concentration of hexadecane in the initial emulsion‐polymer blends, droplets were dispersed in the fibers as individual droplets or in form of aggregated flocs of hexadecane droplets. Nanofibers with spindle‐like perturbations or nanofibers containing bead‐like structures with approximately 5 times larger than the size of droplets in the original nanoemulsion were obtained. Remarkably, incorporation of hexadecane droplets in fibers did not alter size of individual droplets, that is, no coalescence occurred. The manufacture of solid matrix containing nanodroplets could be of substantial interest for manufacturers wishing to develop encapsulation system for lipophilic functional compounds such as lipid‐soluble flavors, antimicrobials, antioxidants, and bioactives with tailored release kinetics.

Practical Applications:  The paper describes the formation of electrospun nanofibers from hydrophilic polymers that contain fine‐disperse emulsion droplets. By incorporating emulsion droplets, a large variety of lipophilic ingredients can be easily loaded into the fibers’ hydrophilic polymer matrix. This is of practical importance as to date the only way to include a lipophilic ingredient in a nanofibers is by dissolving the lipophilic ingredient and polymer in an organic solvent followed by electrospinning. However, use of an organic solvent is (a) not feasible if one wants to electrospin hydrophilic polymers, and (b) use of organic solvents is generally highly undesirable in the food industry. Our results should be of interest to a number of industries such as the food, pharmaceutical, chemical, and personal care industries that are generally in need of novel matrices that can serve as carrier vehicles and release functional components such as flavors, antimicrobials, antioxidants, drugs, and bioactives.
Temperature Dependence of Autoxidation of Perilla Oil and Tocopherol Degradation
Authors: Wang Seonyeong , Hwang Hyunsuk , Yoon Sukhoo , Choe Eunok
Published: July 2010

Abstract:  Temperature dependence of the autoxidation of perilla oil and tocopherol degradation was studied with corn oil as a reference. The oils were oxidized in the dark at 20, 40, 60, and 80 °C. Oil oxidation was determined by peroxide and conjugated dienoic acid values. Tocopherols in the oils were quantified by HPLC. The oxidation of both oils increased with oxidation time and temperature. Induction periods for oil autoxidation decreased with temperature, and were longer in corn oil than in perilla oil, indicating higher sensitivity of perilla oil to oxidation. However, time lag for tocopherol degradation was longer in perilla oil, indicating higher stability of tocopherols in perilla oil than in corn oil. Activation energies for oil autoxidation and tocopherol degradation were higher in perilla oil (23.9 to 24.2, 9.8 kcal/mol, respectively) than in corn oil (12.5 to 15.8, 8.8 kcal/mol, respectively) indicating higher temperature‐dependence in perilla oil. Higher stability of tocopherols in perilla oil was highly related with polyphenols. The study suggests that more careful temperature control is required to decrease the autoxidation of perilla oil than that of corn oil, and polyphenols contributed to the oxidative stability of perilla oil by protecting tocopherols from degradation, especially at the early stage of oil autoxidation.
Design and Characterization of an Aequorin‐based Bacterial Biosensor for Detection of Toluene and Related Compounds
Authors: Zeinoddini Mehdi , Khajeh Khosro , Behzadian Farida , Hosseinkhani Saman , Saeedinia Ali‐Reza , Barjesteh Hesam
Published: July 2010

An aequorin‐based Escherichia coli strain JM109 biosensor was constructed and characterized for its potential to detect toluene and related compounds in aqueous solutions. The biosensor was constructed based on a PGL2 plasmid carrying the lower pathway promoter (Pu) of the xyl operon of Pseudomonas putida mt‐2, which was incorporated with transcriptional activator xylR and fused to aequorin cDNA named pGL2‐aequorin. Binding of xylR protein to a subset of toluene‐like compounds activates transcription at the Pu promoter, thus expression of aequorin is controlled by xylR and Pu. In this work we have compared the effect of Shine‐Dalgarno (SD) and T2 rrnβ terminator sequence in the expression of aequorin. According to the sensitivity of aequorin and increase in the signal‐to‐noise ratio, this reporter enzyme has reasonable sensitivity compared with other reporter systems. The results indicate higher expression of aequorin in the presence of SD and T2 rrnβ. The activity of aequorin in recombinant whole‐cell biosensor was linear from 1 to 500 μm of toluene. The bioluminescence response was specific for toluene‐like molecules, so this biosensor cells would be able to detect toluene derivative contamination in environmental samples, accurately.
Quantum Yields and Kinetics of the Firefly Bioluminescence Reaction of Beetle Luciferases
Authors: Niwa Kazuki , Ichino Yoshiro , Kumata Shiho , Nakajima Yoshihiro , Hiraishi Yoshihiro , Kato Dai‐ichiro , Viviani Vadim R. , Ohmiya Yoshihiro
Published: July 2010

Quantum yields of firefly bioluminescence reactions were determined for beetle luciferases from the three main families of luminous beetles emitting different bioluminescence colors. Quantum yield (QY) was significantly correlated with luminescence spectrum. The green light‐emitting luciferase of the Brazilian click beetle, Pyrearinus termitilluminans, whose luminescence spectrum had the shortest peak wavelength of all the luciferases investigated, had the highest QY (0.61). Mutant analyses of active site‐substituted Pyrocoelia miyako luciferases showed that, although kcat was decreased by the mutations, the QY was not significantly affected.
Development of a biomarker for Geobacter activity and strain composition; Proteogenomic analysis of the citrate synthase protein during bioremediation of U(VI)
Authors: Wilkins Michael J. , Callister Stephen J. , Miletto Marzia , Williams Kenneth H. , Nicora Carrie D. , Lovley Derek R. , Long Philip E. , Lipton Mary S.
Published: July 2010

Monitoring the activity of target microorganisms during stimulated bioremediation is a key problem for the development of effective remediation strategies. At the US Department of Energy's Integrated Field Research Challenge (IFRC) site in Rifle, CO, the stimulation of Geobacter growth and activity via subsurface acetate addition leads to precipitation of U(VI) from groundwater as U(IV). Citrate synthase (gltA) is a key enzyme in Geobacter central metabolism that controls flux into the TCA cycle. Here, we utilize shotgun proteomic methods to demonstrate that the measurement of gltA peptides can be used to track Geobacter activity and strain evolution during in situ biostimulation. Abundances of conserved gltA peptides tracked Fe(III) reduction and changes in U(VI) concentrations during biostimulation, whereas changing patterns of unique peptide abundances between samples suggested sample‐specific strain shifts within the Geobacter population. Abundances of unique peptides indicated potential differences at the strain level between Fe(III)‐reducing populations stimulated during in situ biostimulation experiments conducted a year apart at the Rifle IFRC. These results offer a novel technique for the rapid screening of large numbers of proteomic samples for Geobacter species and will aid monitoring of subsurface bioremediation efforts that rely on metal reduction for desired outcomes.
Diagnostic value of anti‐modified citrullinated vimentin in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: MARAINA Che Hussin Che , NURDAYANA Abdul Karim , RUSNI Dollah , AZWANY Yaacob
Published: July 2010

Background:  Rheumatoid factors (RF) are currently used in the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Several other autoantibodies found in RA are directed to epitopes in citrullinated proteins such as anti‐cyclic citrullinated and recently anti‐modified citrullinated vimentin (MCV).

Objective:  In this study we determined the sensitivity and specificity of anti‐MCV in comparison with anti‐cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) antibodies and RF in RA patients and in a control group using the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria as the gold standard.

Materials and methods:  A cross sectional study was conducted from January to December 2008 on 100 patients with RA and 153 patients with arthritis or arthralgia but not fulfilling ACR criteria for RA. Serum from each subject was tested for anti‐MCV, anti‐CCP antibodies and immunoglobulin G (IgG) RF by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Sensitivity and specificity of the tests were evaluated using the ACR criteria as the gold standard.

Results:  The sensitivity of RF was 85% with 74.5% specificity. For anti‐CCP antibodies the sensitivity was 71% and the specificity was 94.8%. The sensitivity of anti‐MCV antibodies was 80% with 59.5% specificity. The area under the curve for RF was 0.759, for anti‐CCP antibodies was 0.866 and for anti‐MCV antibodies was 0.681, while for at least one positive test it was 0.691.

Conclusion:  Anti‐CCP antibodies have higher diagnostic specificity and positive predictive value than RF and anti‐MCV antibodies. RF has the highest sensitivity when compared to anti‐CCP and anti‐MCV antibodies. Thus anti‐MCV antibody is not a better marker when compared to RF or anti‐MCV antibody in the diagnosis of RA patients.
A proteome analysis of the tetracyanonickelate (II) responses in Klebsiella oxytoca
Authors: Chen Wen‐Jen , Tang Petus , Hseu You‐Cheng , Chen Chien‐Cheng , Huang Kuo‐Yang , Chen Ssu Ching
Published: July 2010

Tetracyanonickelate (II) (TCN) has been proved to be degraded by Klebsiella oxytoca. In order to examine the physiological responses of TCN degradation by this bacterium, two‐dimensional (2‐DE) electrophoresis approach and Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization‐time of flight‐mass spectrometry allow us to identify 91 proteins spots that were significantly altered in the presence of 1 mM TCN in relative to that in 1 mM ammonia when K. oxytoca grown at the late‐log phase. Among them, 43 proteins were successfully identified. Fractions enriched in hydrophobic proteins were obtained with a specific extraction method based on temperature‐dependent phase partitioning with Triton X‐114, with the successful identification of 26 proteins out of 41 differential proteins. Some proteins were related with TCN metabolism. OsmC‐like protein, molecular chaperone DnaK, glutathione S‐transferase, alkyl hydroperoxide reductase, DNA protection during starvation conditions and DNA binding ferritin‐like protein can counteract the oxidative stress from TCN biodegradation. The nitrogenase had been suggested to participate in TCN degradation by K. oxytoca, and was upregulated in TCN‐treated cells as expected. The induction of glutamine synthetase could enhance the assimilation of limited nitrogen source produced from the bioconversion of TCN into ammonia as the alternate nitrogen source for bacteria growth. These findings could provide new insights into the inducible mechanisms underlying the capacity of K. oxytoca to tolerate TCN stress.
Switching toxin production on and off: intermittent microcystin synthesis in a Microcystis bloom
Authors: Wood Susie A. , Rueckert Andreas , Hamilton David P. , Cary S. Craig , Dietrich Daniel R.
Published: July 2010

Toxic cyanobacterial blooms are increasing in prevalence. Microcystins are the most commonly produced cyanotoxin. Despite extensive research the variables regulating microcystin production remain unclear. Using a RT‐QPCR assay that allowed the precise measurement of mcyE transcriptional gene expression and an ELISA that enabled small changes in total microcystin concentrations to be monitored, we demonstrate for the first time that microcystin production is not always constitutive and that significant up‐ and downregulation in microcystin synthesis can occur on time scales of 2–6 h. Samples were collected over 3 days from a small eutrophic lake during a dense microcystin‐producing Microcystis bloom. McyE gene transcripts were detected in only four out of 14 samples. Vicissitudes in both microcystin quotas and extracellular microcystin levels corresponded with changes in mcyE expression. During the period of exalted microcystin synthesis Microcystis sp. cell concentrations increased from 70 000 cells ml−1 to 4 000 000 cells ml−1. These data provide compelling evidence that changes in Microcystis cell concentrations influence microcystin production.
Epidemiological features and association with crib‐biting in horses with neurological disease associated with temporohyoid osteoarthropathy (1991–2008)
Authors: Grenager N. S. , Divers T. J. , Mohammed H. O. , Johnson A. L. , Albright J. , Reuss S. M.
Published: July 2010

A retrospective study of 43 cases of temporohyoid osteoarthropathy was performed to evaluate the epidemiological features and a possible association with crib‐biting. Data collected from records included case details, what diagnostics were utilised, whether medical or surgical treatment was administered, and outcome. Owners were contacted via telephone and asked whether the horse had displayed crib‐biting behaviour. Forty‐three horses were diagnosed with neurological disease associated with temporohyoid osteoarthropathy, 62.8% of which were Quarter Horse‐types. Median age at presentation was 10 years and median duration of neurological signs prior to presentation was 3 days. Skull radiographs and guttural pouch endoscopy were used to definitively diagnose temporohyoid osteoarthropathy in 72% of the cases. Of 43 horses, 21 received medical treatment and 15 surgical treatment, with an overall survival rate of 55.8%. Crib‐biting was observed in 31.3% of cases and there was a significant association between being afflicted with THO and likelihood of possessing the behaviour. Horses with neurological disease associated with THO were 8 times more likely to be crib‐biters compared to the general population.
Osteosarcoma of the middle phalanx in a horse
Authors: Cillan‐Garcia E. , Kearns L. J. , Hetzel U. , Harrison L. J.
Published: July 2010

An 11‐year‐old Thoroughbred gelding was presented for lameness investigation following acute onset hindlimb lameness, which developed during a period of paddock turnout. Clinical examination revealed a swelling over the dorsolateral aspect of the pastern that was painful on digital palpation. Radiography of this area was consistent with an aggressive bone lesion involving both joint surfaces of the middle phalanx with pathological fracture and distal collapse of this bone. On this basis, the horse was subjected to euthanasia. Post mortem histopathological examination revealed presence of an osteosarcoma without involvement of the articular cartilage. This bone tumour is extremely rare in horses and has not been reported in this anatomical location.
Successful treatment of presumptive immune mediated thrombocytopenia and dermatitis with azathioprine in a pregnant mare
Authors: Hardefeldt L. Y. , Schambow R. , Peek S. F.
Published: July 2010

This report describes the successful treatment of immune‐mediated thrombocytopenia (IMTP) with azathioprine in a pregnant mare that had been refractory to therapy with dexamethasone. The interesting features of this case included the presence of dermatitis, a clinical presentation not previously associated with IMTP in the equine literature and the maintenance of pregnancy and delivery of a healthy normal foal despite immunosuppressive therapy with azathioprine during critical stages of early gestation.
Equine pastern dermatitis
Authors: Colles C. M. , Colles K. M. , Galpin J. R.
Published: July 2010

Bacteriological examination of pastern dermatitis in 12 cases resulted in a variable growth of bacterial species. Dermatophilus congolensis was found on direct smear in 2 cases, although only cultured in one of these. Eleven of the cases were treated with a new topical treatment, consisting of a combination of antibacterial agents and humectants ‐ agents that lower water activity (Mud Stop). Ten of these cases showed a good response to treatment, the other showing partial improvement before the treatment was changed.
The use of sedatives, analgesic and anaesthetic drugs in the horse: An electronic survey of members of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP)
Authors: HUBBELL J. A. E. , SAVILLE W. J. A. , BEDNARSKI R. M.
Published: July 2010

Reasons for performing study:To determine the sedative, analgesic and anaesthetic drugs and techniques that are used by equine veterinarians.

Hypothesis or objectives:To provide equine veterinarians with information concerning veterinary use of anaesthetic techniques, a reflection of the collective experiences of the profession.

Methods:A survey was conducted of those members of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) with an electronic mail address on file with the organisation using proprietary, web‐based software. The survey was comprised of 30 questions divided into 8 sections: nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs; local anaesthesia; alternative techniques; standing chemical restraint; epidural anaesthesia; short‐term anaesthesia; long‐term anaesthesia; and a place for the respondent to make comments.

Results:The response rate was 13.8% (952/6911) AAEP member veterinarians primarily use phenylbutazone and flunixin as anti‐inflammatory drugs, and lidocaine and mepivacaine for local anaesthesia. Combinations of drugs are preferred for standing chemical restraint. While many veterinarians frequently utilise short‐term anaesthesia, longer anaesthesia is less frequently performed.

Conclusions:Most AAEP member veterinarians use sedatives in combination to provide standing chemical restraint. Extra‐label use of drugs is a core component of current equine sedation and anaesthetic practice.

Potential relevance:Equine veterinarians can compare their choices of anaesthetic drugs with others practising equine medicine and surgery and may be stimulated to investigate alternative methods of providing comfort to horses.
Contemporary use of acepromazine in the anaesthetic management of male horses and ponies: A retrospective study and opinion poll
Authors: DRIESSEN B. , ZARUCCO L. , KALIR B. , BERTOLOTTI L.
Published: July 2010

Reason for performing study:Current use of acepromazine in the anaesthetic management of male horses and ponies and associated risks are largely unknown.

Objectives:To explore anaesthetic acepromazine use and related adverse effects in the male horse.

Methods:Of 8533 anaesthetised horses and ponies medical records of male animals treated perianaesthetically with acepromazine were reviewed. Demographic data, time and dose of acepromazine administration, co‐administered drugs, quality of induction and recovery from anaesthesia, arterial blood pressures, and occurrence of penile dysfunction were recorded. Practising ACVA and ECVAA diplomates were polled on the use of acepromazine and its effects on blood pressure and penile dysfunction in the equine.

Results:Of all animals, 12% females and 11% males (n = 575 including 42% stallions) received perianaesthetic acepromazine, predominantly for premedication. Anaesthetic induction was smooth in 566 animals. Lowest mean arterial pressures averaged 65 ± 9 mmHg. Recovery was good or very good in 70% of all animals and 74% stood after 1–2 attempts. In 14 horses (2.4%; 7 stallions, 7 geldings), penile prolapse occurred for 0.5–4 h and in one stallion (0.2%) for >12 but <18 h post recovery. Most surveyed anaesthesiologists use acepromazine in stallions (occasionally 63%; frequently 17%) but more frequently in geldings (occasionally 34%; frequently 59%) and mares (occasionally 38%; frequently 59%), primarily for premedication with other sedatives and analgesics. Persistent intraoperative hypotension was not frequently reported. Only 5% of surveyed anaesthesiologists recall penile prolapse post acepromazine administration lasting for >12 h and only one recalls 3 cases of irreversible penile prolapse in 20 years of anaesthesia practice.

Conclusions and potential relevance:The extremely low risk of permanent penile dysfunction (≤1 in 10,000 cases) does not justify more restricted use of acepromazine in the intact male vs. geldings and mares.
The 3D anatomy of the cervical articular process joints in the horse and their topographical relationship to the spinal cord
Authors: CLARIDGE H. A. H. , PIERCY R. J. , PARRY A. , WELLER R.
Published: July 2010

Reasons for study:Detailed anatomy of the equine cervical articular process joints (APJs) has received little attention in the literature and yet disorders of this joint have been linked to spinal cord compression resulting in severe clinical signs such as ataxia and weakness. This study aimed to describe the 3D anatomy of the APJ in relation to the spinal cord in the horse.

Hypothesis:Artificial distension of the APJ causes the joint pouches to extend into the vertebral canal, with the potential for APJ effusion to cause spinal cord compressive disease.

Methods:Six cadaveric necks (C1–C7) of clinically normal horses were used in this study. Computed tomography scans of the cervical APJ were acquired after injection of a negative contrast agent to maximal distension. The resulting images were semi‐automatically segmented using greyscale thresholding and reconstructed in 3D by polygonal surface meshing. The 3D reconstructions were used to assess the topographic anatomy of the APJ in relation to the spinal cord and to measure joint volume at each cervical vertebra in relation to vertebrae size.

Results:Joint volume varied significantly between joint location (P<0.0001) and was positively correlated to the vertebral site (from cranial to caudal) (r = 0.781, P<0.0001). After distension, the medial outpouch of the APJ extended towards the vertebral canal from a dorsolateral location but in none of the 6 horses was there apparent compression of thedura matersurrounding the spinal cord. There was no significant difference in the extent of medial outpouch at any vertebral level (P = 0.104). Flexion of the neck resulted in minor changes to the shape of the APJ but did not result in the medial outpouch encroaching any closer to the spinal cord.

Conclusions:From this study, it appears that in the absence of any other soft tissue or bony changes an effusion of the APJ is unlikely to cause spinal cord compression. However, given that the APJ and spinal cord are in close approximation, in the presence of other anatomical changes, an effusion may have the potential to cause compression.

Potential relevance:This study confirms that the APJ extend into the dorsolateral aspect of the vertebral canal in a ventromedial direction, suggesting that oblique myelographic views are recommended for the diagnosis of spinal cord compression when pathology of the APJ is suspected.
Lipid nanoparticles for the delivery of poorly water-soluble drugs
Authors: Bunjes Heike
Published: July 2010

Objectives

This review discusses important aspects of lipid nanoparticles such as colloidal lipid emulsions and, in particular, solid lipid nanoparticles as carrier systems for poorly water-soluble drugs, with a main focus on the parenteral and peroral use of these carriers.

Key findings

A short historical background of the development of colloidal lipid emulsions and solid lipid nanoparticles is provided and their similarities and differences are highlighted. With regard to drug incorporation, parameters such as the chemical nature of the particle matrix and the physicochemical nature of the drug, effects of drug partition and the role of the particle interface are discussed. Since, because of the crystalline nature of their lipid core, solid lipid nanoparticles display some additional important features compared to emulsions, their specificities are introduced in more detail. This mainly includes their solid state behaviour (crystallinity, polymorphism and thermal behaviour) and the consequences of their usually non-spherical particle shape. Since lipid nanoemulsions and -suspensions are also considered as potential means to alter the pharmacokinetics of incorporated drug substances, some underlying basic considerations, in particular concerning the drug-release behaviour of such lipid nanodispersions on dilution, are addressed as well.

Conclusions

Colloidal lipid emulsions and solid lipid nanoparticles are interesting options for the delivery of poorly water-soluble drug substances. Their specific physicochemical properties need, however, to be carefully considered to provide a rational basis for their development into effective carrier systems for a given delivery task.
Pharmaceutical applications of cyclodextrins: basic science and product development
Authors: Loftsson Thorsteinn , Brewster Marcus E
Published: July 2010

Objectives

Drug pipelines are becoming increasingly difficult to formulate. This is punctuated by both retrospective and prospective analyses that show that while 40% of currently marketed drugs are poorly soluble based on the definition of the biopharmaceutical classification system (BCS), about 90% of drugs in development can be characterized as poorly soluble. Although a number of techniques have been suggested for increasing oral bioavailability and for enabling parenteral formulations, cyclodextrins have emerged as a productive approach. This short review is intended to provide both some basic science information as well as data on the ability to develop drugs in cyclodextrin-containing formulations.

Key findings

There are currently a number of marketed products that make use of these functional solubilizing excipients and new product introduction continues to demonstrate their high added value. The ability to predict whether cyclodextrins will be of benefit in creating a dosage form for a particular drug candidate requires a good working knowledge of the properties of cyclodextrins, their mechanism of solubilization and factors that contribute to, or detract from, the biopharmaceutical characteristics of the formed complexes.

We provide basic science information as well as data on the development of drugs in cyclodextrin-containing formulations. Cyclodextrins have emerged as an important tool in the formulator's armamentarium to improve apparent solubility and dissolution rate for poorly water-soluble drug candidates. The continued interest and productivity of these materials bode well for future application and their currency as excipients in research, development and drug product marketing.
Pharmacists' and consumers' viewpoints on counselling on prescription medicines in Australian community pharmacies
Authors: Puspitasari Hanni P , Aslani Parisa , Krass Ines
Published: July 2010

Objective

The aim was to investigate and compare counselling on prescription medicine provided by Australian community pharmacists based on pharmacist and consumer self-reports, and to explore consumers' interest in receiving prescription medicine information.

Methods

Mail and face-to-face surveys containing comparable questions for both study groups. The setting was Sydney metropolitan community pharmacies, Australia (22 pharmacists and 157 consumers).

Key findings

No statistically significant differences were found between pharmacists and consumers in reporting provision of verbal information for new (Z = −0.57, P = 0.57) and repeat prescriptions (Z = −1.71, P = 0.09). However, there were statistically significant differences between the two cohorts in reporting dissemination of written information (Z = −2.6, P = 0.009 and Z = −2.68, P = 0.007 for new and repeat prescriptions, respectively). Both groups reported that the most common type of verbal information provided by pharmacists was in relation to medicine administration rather than safety aspects of medicines. Approximately 59% of consumers expressed an interest in receiving counselling for new prescriptions only.

Conclusions

Pharmacists regularly provided verbal counselling on new prescription medicines, but infrequently provided written medicine information or any type of information for regular medicines. Lack of consumers' interest in receiving prescription medicine information may have contributed to the low counselling rates. Thus, there is a need to develop strategies to improve pharmacist counselling practice and to enhance consumer involvement in the counselling process.
Exploration and Prioritization of Fuel Cell Commercialization Barriers for Use in the Development of a Fuel Cell Roadmap for California
Authors: Eichman Josh , Brouwer Jack , Samuelsen Scott
Published: July 2010

Barriers to fuel cell commercialization are often introduced as general challenges, such as cost and durability, without definition of the terms and usually without prioritizing the degree to which each of these barriers hinder the development of fuel cell technology. This work acts to objectively determine the importance of technology barriers to fuel cell commercialization and to develop a list of appropriate actions to overcome these barriers especially as they relate to the California market. Using previous fuel cell roadmaps and action plans along with feedback from the fuel cell community, benchmarks (i.e., the current technology status), and milestones (i.e., the desired technology status) for fuel cell technology are explored. Understanding the benchmarks and milestones enables the development of a list of fuel cell commercialization barriers. These barriers or gaps represent issues, which if addressed will enhance the market feasibility and acceptance of fuel cell technologies. The research process determined that the best technique to address these barriers, and bridge the gaps between fuel cell benchmarks and milestones, is to develop specific research projects to address individual commercialization barriers or collections of barriers. This technique allows for a high resolution of issues while presenting the material in a form that is conducive to planning for organizations such as industry, regulatory bodies, universities, and government entities that desire to pursue the most promising projects. The current analyses resulted in three distinct research and development areas that are considered most important based on the results. The first and most important research and development area is associated with technologies that address the connection and interaction of fuel cells with the electric grid. This R&D area is followed in importance by the production, use, and availability of opportunity fuels in fuel cell systems. The third most important category concerned the development and infrastructure required for transportation related fuel cell systems. In each of these areas the fuel cell community identified demonstration and deployment projects as the most important types of projects to pursue since they tend to address multiple barriers in many different types of markets for fuel cell technology. Other high priority types of projects are those that addresses environmental and grid-related barriers. The analyses found that cost/value to customer, system integration, and customer requirements were the most important barriers that affect the development and market acceptance of fuel cell technology.
Modeling of a Direct Carbon Fuel Cell System
Authors: Hemmes K. , Houwing M. , Woudstra N.
Published: July 2010

Direct carbon fuel cells (DCFCs) have great thermodynamic advantages over other high temperature fuel cells such as molten carbonate fuel cells (MCFCs) and solid oxide fuel cells. They can have 100% fuel utilization, no Nernst loss (at the anode), and the CO2 produced at the anode is not mixed with other gases and is ready for re-use or sequestration. So far, only studies have been reported on cell development. In this paper, we study the performance of a CO2-producing DCFC system model. The theoretically predicted advantages that are confirmed on a bench scale are also confirmed on a system level, except for the production of pure CO2. Net system efficiencies of around 78% were found for the developed system. An exergy analysis of the system shows where the losses in the system occur. If the cathode of the DCFC must be operated as a standard MCFC cathode, the required CO2 at the cathode is the reason why a large part of the pure CO2 from the anode is recycled and mixed with the incoming air and cannot be used directly for sequestration. Bench scale studies should be performed to test the minimum amount of CO2 needed at the cathode. This might be lower than in a standard MCFC operation due to the pure CO2 at the anode side that enhances diffusion toward the cathode.