bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical study of influences of hard particles in lubricant on tribological performances of the piston ring
Authors: Meng F M , Zhang Y Y , Hu Y Z , Wang H
Published: May 2007

Influences of hard particles lying in the lubrication region between piston ring face and cylinder wall, including the effects of a non-contact particle and contact particle, on tribological performances of the piston ringwere numerically analysed. A modified Reynolds equation incorporating a non-contact particle effect was presented. The total friction force, deformation, and contact stress of the ring, with a non-contact particle and contact particle consideration, were solved separately by using finite-element program code of the authors and software ANSYS 5.7. The numerical results show that obvious changes in the total friction force and deformation of the ring can occur, if the diameter and height across the film thickness of a non-contact particle and axial velocity difference between the non-contact particle and ring are considered. The maximum contact stress of the ring is obviously affected by the contact particle's interfering time and velocity, and hardness value of the plastically deformed particle.
Effect of high-pressure rheology of lubricants upon entrapped oil film behaviour at halting elastohydrodynamic lubrication
Authors: Ohno N , Yamada S
Published: May 2007

The steady-state elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) is now quite well understood both computationally and experimentally. However, many practical machine elements such as rolling element bearings and traction continuously variable transmission (CVT) operate often under the halting of machine, the suspension of long time and start of machine. It is often in such operating condition that breakdown of lubrication films occurs, which eventually gives rise to fail of the lubricated surfaces.

This paper describes an experimental study of EHL film thickness at halting of operation and a change by the time of an entrapped film thickness. The film thickness is investigated with some different type of lubricating oil, which a phase diagram is known by high-pressure density measurements. The results demonstrate an entrapped oil film thickness at EHL halting is dependant on αηa, where α is the pressure-viscosity coefficient, η is the dynamic viscosity, a is the deceleration, and squeeze out time of entrapped oil film is dependant on a phase diagram parameter TVE - T, where TVE is the viscoelastic solid transition temperature at Hertzian pressure, and T is the oil temperature.
Tribological properties and structure of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene after gamma irradiation
Authors: Xiong D , Ma R , Lin J , Wang N , Jin Z. M.
Published: May 2007

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of irradiation and post treatment on the molecular structure, mechanical, and tribological properties of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). UHMWPE was irradiated by gamma ray at doses of 120, 250, and 500 kGy in air and encapsulation by plastic film, and then posttreated in vacuum. The tribological properties were investigated by sliding UHMWPE against Si3N4 ceramic ball on a ball-on-disc tribometer in the presence of distilled water lubricant. The result showed that, after gamma irradiation, the crystallinity and cross-linking degree of UHMWPE increased with dose increasing, whereas its toughness and the elongation decreased sharply. All irradiated samples exhibited lower wear rates with dose in the range from 120 to 250 kGy, but, higher friction coefficients, compared with those un-irradiated. However, over 250 kGy, the wear factor began to increase, which may be associated with the ductile-brittle transition in its mechanical properties. Posttreatment in vacuum promoted residual radicals to cross-link and improved wear resistance of UHMWPE further. The 250 kGy irradiated and posttreated sample showed the best wear resistance. The wear mechanism of un-irradiated UHMWPE and those posttreated ones was mainly plowing, plastic deformation, and adhesion, whereas the irradiated samples were characterized mainly by abrasive wear.
A comparison of friction in 28 mm conventional and 55 mm resurfacing metal-on-metal hip replacements
Authors: Brockett C. L. , Williams S , Jin Z. M. , Isaac G , Fisher J
Published: May 2007

Total hip replacement has been a common, successful surgical intervention for many years. However, it has long been considered unsatisfactory for younger, more active patients due to the limited survivorship of conventional implants employing polyethylene. Larger resurfacing implants were developed to preserve bone stock and improve stability, however, early metal-on-polyethylene implants failed due to high wear. More recent developments, utilizing a metal-on-metal bearing, have encouraging short- to medium-term clinical performance. Concerns exist regarding the increased sliding distance and frictional torque generated within a larger diameter bearing. A large diameter metal-on-metal surface replacement was contrasted with a conventional 28 mm diameter implant with the same bearing material combination using a pendulum friction simulator. Studies were performed under different swing-phase load and lubrication conditions. The larger diameter bearing exhibited the lower friction factor under all test conditions, although the measured frictional torque was higher. Increasing swing-phase load was shown to cause an increase in friction factor in all tests. Increased serum concentration resulted in a reduction in friction factor for both bearings. Variation of the friction factor with the head diameter suggested that fluid-film lubrication contributed to the reduction of friction.
Effects of impact loads on point contact elastohydrodynamic lubrication films
Authors: Kaneta M , Ozaki S , Nishikawa H , Guo F
Published: May 2007

The behaviours of point contact elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) films under impact loads are investigated by direct observations using the optical interferometry technique. It has been found that when the initial impact gap is large, a central dimple is formed and the maximum film thickness occurs at the centre of the contact region. When the initial impact gap becomes small, a periphery dimple is generated and the maximum film thickness occurs at the contact periphery. When impact is applied to an oily Hertzian contact, the maximum film thickness of the periphery dimple is determined by the increasing rate of the Hertzian contact radius. The impact load under rolling/sliding conditions results in a crescent-shaped oil entrapment originally at the inlet of the EHL conjunction, which passes through the EHL conjunction approximately at the entrainment velocity. Some numerical results are also presented to show that the experimental observation in the periphery region is induced by the local squeeze effect.
Bridging macroscopic lubricant transport and surface tribochemical investigations in reciprocating engines
Authors: Wong V. W. , Thomas B. C. , Watson S. A. G.
Published: May 2007

Engine design studies are often conducted with one of two distinct focuses on two different scales: overall engine analysis or localized surface analysis. However, recent engine research requires a more combined approach. Classical tribological experiments and models have been developed usually for general contacting surfaces under specific operating conditions. They attempt to simulate the actual engine environment, which varies significantly with component design and engine operating conditions. Macroscopic engine studies, on the other hand, yield information pertaining to the overall engine system, such as component dynamics, lubricant flow, pressures, and temperatures. These macroscopic operating parameters serve as boundary conditions to the localized surface or tribochemical problem. This paper discusses the macroscopic oil transport processes in the engine and presents several current engine performance problems, such as in friction reduction, modelling wear with antiwear tribofilms, and minimizing deposit formation and emission of ash-related species. It also illustrates applications of the combined analysis of bulk oil transport in the engine with material surface phenomena and tribochemistry. A specific example involves the oil supply to the piston ring-pack and changes in oil and additive characteristics in that region.
Analytical and numerical solutions of thin lubricating films for differing shear-thinning viscosity models
Authors: Hewson R. W. , Kapur N , Gaskell P. H.
Published: May 2007

A detailed assessment of thin film lubrication, for shear-thinning fluids, in two benchmark geometries - a classical linear slider-bearing and a converging-diverging gap arrangement - is provided in terms of the associated pressure distribution, flowrate, and variation in friction. Solutions, both analytical and purely numerical are obtained, with three different rheological constitutive relationships, the viscosity being represented via either a power-law or a Moore or an Ellis model. Finite-element simulations, with these rheological models fully integrated within the weak form of the momentum equation, show that the accuracy of the corresponding analytical solutions depends on whether the resulting pressure gradient-flux relationships are derived using either a full or average shear-dependence formulation. Indeed, the analytical results obtained via the latter form reveal significant discrepancies as the shear-thinning effects increase, in that the behaviour of the pressure field is not well captured.
Some monotonic trigonometric sums
Authors: Alzer Horst , Koumandos Stamatis
Published: May 2007

Let

be the trigonometric polynomials of Fejér and Young, respectively. The aim of this paper is to determine all real parameters

are strictly increasing on (0,

are strictly decreasing on (0,
Role of protein kinase Cβ in rhythmic contractions of human pregnant myometrium
Authors: Yasuda Katsuhiko , Nakamoto Tsuyoshi , Yasuhara Masahiro , Okada Hidetaka , Nakajima Tatsuya , Kanzaki Hideharu , Hori Masatoshi , Ozaki Hiroshi
Published: May 2007

To assess the role of protein kinase Cβ (PKCβ) in human myometrial contractions during pregnancy, we evaluated the effect of a PKCβ inhibitor (LY333531) on the pregnant and nonpregnant myometrial contractions and compared the level of PKCβ in the pregnant myometrium with that in the nonpregnant myometrium. The effects of LY333531 on the myometrial contractions were examined by measuring contractile activity (frequency and amplitude). PKCβ in human myometrium was assessed at mRNA level using real-time PCR method. The characteristics of contractile activity were different between the pregnant and the nonpregnant myometrium. The amplitude of rhythmic contractions in the preterm and term myometrium was increased 2- to 2.5-fold when compared with that in the nonpregnant myometrium, but the frequency of rhythmic contractions was decreased by about half. LY333531 (10−6 M) reduced the increased amplitude in the preterm and term myometrium by about 50%, and the inhibitory effects of LY333531 in the pregnant myometrium were significantly greater than that in the nonpregnant myometrium (about 50 vs 25%). However, the frequency in the pregnant and nonpregnant myometrium was not influenced by LY333531. Real-time PCR revealed a significant, five- to sevenfold increase in the expression of PKCβ mRNA in the preterm and term myometrium when compared with the nonpregnant myometrium. These findings suggest that the increased amplitude of human myometrial contractions during pregnancy is related to the increased level of PKCβ. A PKCβ inhibitor may reduce preterm uterine contractions and prevent preterm delivery.
Molecular evolution of the carboxy terminal region of the zona pellucida 3 glycoprotein in murine rodents
Authors: Swann Christine A , Cooper Steven J B , Breed William G
Published: May 2007

In mammals, before fertilization can occur, sperm have to bind to, and penetrate, the zona pellucida (ZP). In the laboratory mouse, which has been used as a model system for fertilization studies, sperm–ZP binding has been found to be mediated by a region at the carboxy terminal, encoded by exon 7 of the Zp3 gene. This region shows considerable interspecific sequence diversity with some evidence of adaptive evolution in mammals, suggesting that it may contribute to species-specific sperm–ZP binding. However, in a previous study of sequence diversity of ZP3 of three species of Australian murine rodents, we found an identical protein sequence of the region encoded by exon 7. Here, we expand this earlier study to determine the sequence diversity of this region in 68 out of the 130 species of Australasian murine rodents. Maximum likelihood analyses, using representatives of both New Guinean and Australian taxa, provide evidence of positive selection at three codons adjacent to, or within, the putative combining-site for sperm of ZP3, but this was not evident when the analysis was restricted to the Australian taxa. The latter group showed low levels of both intra- and inter-generic sequence divergences in the region encoded by exon 7 of Zp3, with little evidence that this region contributes to species specificity of sperm–ZP binding. These findings suggest that the selective forces acting on the Zp3 exon 7 region during the evolution of the Australasian murine rodents have been variable, and that positive selection has only occurred in a few lineages.
Temporal detection of caspase-3 and -7 in bovine in vitro produced embryos of different developmental capacity
Authors: Vandaele Leen , Mateusen Bart , Maes Dominiek G D , de Kruif Aart , Van Soom Ann
Published: May 2007

Embryo quality is most frequently evaluated at the blastocyst stage, although quality parameters further back along the developmental axis, such as early developmental kinetics or oocyte quality, can be equally valuable. Despite the fact that previous studies in bovine have linked oocyte diameter and early developmental kinetics with blastocyst formation and viability, their relation with the incidence of apoptosis during embryo development remains relatively unexplored. Therefore, we related non-invasive parameters of oocyte and embryo quality, such as embryo kinetics, embryo morphology, and oocyte diameter, to the incidence of apoptosis throughout embryo development using fluorescent detection of active caspase-3 and -7. First, bovine in vitro embryos were selected according to developmental kinetics and morphology at four set times during culture and subjected to fluorescent detection of active caspase-3 and -7. Caspase activity was significantly higher in slow developing embryos in comparison with fast cleavers (P < 0.05), but was not related to embryo morphology. Second, bovine oocytes were divided into three groups on the basis of oocyte diameter and the resulting embryos were used for staining at the same four set times. Caspase activity was significantly higher in embryos derived from growing oocytes compared with those of fully grown oocytes at 45, 80, and 117 hours post-insemination (hpi; P < 0.05), but not at 168 hpi.
Effect of pressure at primary drying of freeze-drying mouse sperm reproduction ability and preservation potential
Authors: Kawase Yosuke , Hani Toshio , Kamada Nobuo , Jishage Kou-ichi , Suzuki Hiroshi
Published: May 2007

Freeze-dried spermatozoa are capable of participating in normal embryonic development after injection into oocytes and thus useful for the maintenance of genetic materials. We recently reported that long-term preservation of freeze-dried mouse spermatozoa by conventional methods requires temperatures lower than −80 °C. Successful permanent preservation of mouse spermatozoa at much higher temperatures requires thorough investigation of the freeze-drying procedure. Thus, we examined the relationship between the pressure at primary drying and the preservation potential of freeze-dried mouse spermatozoa. Three different primary drying pressures were applied to evaluate the effect of pressure on freeze-dried spermatozoa under varying storage conditions and the rate of development measured. The developmental rate of embryos to the blastocyst stage from intracytoplasmic sperm injection by freeze-dried spermatozoa at pressures of 0.04, 0.37, and 1.03 mbar without storage were 59% (337/576), 71% (132/187), and 33% (99/302) respectively. When stored at 4 °C for 6 months, the rate was 13% (48/367), 50% (73/145), and 36% (66/182) respectively. These results show that primary drying pressure is an influential factor in the long-term preservation of freeze-dried mouse spermatozoa.
Phosphoprotein enriched in astrocytes-15 is expressed in mouse testis and protects spermatocytes from apoptosis
Authors: Mizrak S C , Renault-Mihara F , Párraga M , Bogerd J , van de Kant H J G , López-Casas P P , Paz M , del Mazo J , de Rooij D G
Published: May 2007

Phosphoprotein enriched in astrocytes (PEA-15) is a 15 kDa acidic serine-phosphorylated protein expressed in different cell types, especially in the CN. We initially detected the expression of PEA-15 in primary cultures of Sertoli cells. To assess the presence and localization of PEA-15 in the mouse testis, we studied the expression pattern of the PEA-15 protein by immunohistochemistry and mRNA by in situ hybridization. Both the protein and the mRNA of PEA-15 were localized in the cytoplasm of Sertoli cells, all types of spermatogonia, and spermatocytes up till zygotene phase of the meiotic prophase. Subsequently, with ongoing development of the spermatocytes, the expression decreased and was very low in the cytoplasm of diplotene spermatocytes. To analyze the possible role of PEA-15 in the developing testis, null mutants for PEA-15 were examined. As the PEA-15 C terminus contains residues for ERK binding, we studied possible differences between the localization of the ERK2 protein in wild type (WT) and PEA-15−/−mice. In the WT testis, ERK2 was localized in the cytoplasm of Sertoli cells, B spermatogonia, preleptotene, leptotene, and zygotene spermatocytes, whereas in the KO testis, ERK2 was primarily localized in the nuclei of these cells and only little staining remained in the cytoplasm. Moreover, in PEA-15-deficient mice, significantly increased numbers of apoptotic spermatocytes were found, indicating an anti-apoptotic role of PEA-15 during the meiotic prophase. The increased numbers of apoptotic spermatocytes were not found at a specific step in the meiotic prophase.
Expression of small heat shock-related protein 20 (HSP20) in rat myometrium is markedly decreased during late pregnancy and labour
Authors: Cross B E , O’Dea H M , MacPhee D J
Published: May 2007

The underlying mechanisms regulating uterine contractions during labour are still poorly understood. Heat shock protein 20 (HSP20) is known to be present at high levels in smooth muscle and implicated in muscle relaxation, but HSP20 expression in the myometrium is completely undetermined. Since HSP20 has been implicated in smooth muscle relaxation, we hypothesized that HSP20 would be highly expressed in the rat myometrium during early and mid-pregnancy when the myometrium is relatively quiescent. Northern blot analysis particularly demonstrated that HSP20 mRNA detection was significantly decreased from day (d) 22 of pregnancy to 1-day post-partum (PP) compared with d6 (P < 0.05). HSP20 mRNA detection was also significantly decreased from d22 to d23 of gestation compared with non-pregnant (NP) samples. Immunoblot analysis showed that detection of HSP20 was significantly decreased at d23 compared with d12 and d15 (P < 0.05). HSP20 detection also significantly decreased at PP compared with d15 (P < 0.05). Immunofluorescence analysis demonstrated that after d15, plasma membrane-associated localization of HSP20 decreased markedly in both circular and longitudinal muscle layers. In addition, HSP20 was detectable near cell membranes at much higher levels in the longitudinal muscle layer of progesterone-treated pregnant rats (delayed labour) at all gestational time points examined, compared with controls. Our results demonstrate that HSP20 mRNA and protein are highly expressed during early and mid-pregnancy and then the expression markedly decreases during late pregnancy and labour. The observed patterns of HSP20 expression are consistent with a potential role for HSP20 in facilitating myometrium quiescence during early and mid-pregnancy.
Expression of ion transport-associated proteins in human efferent and epididymal ducts
Authors: Kujala Minna , Hihnala Satu , Tienari Jukka , Kaunisto Kari , Hästbacka Johanna , Holmberg Christer , Kere Juha , Höglund Pia
Published: May 2007

Appropriate intraluminal microenvironment in the epididymis is essential for maturation of sperm. To clarify whether the anion transporters SLC26A2, SLC26A6, SLC26A7, and SLC26A8 might participate in generating this proper intraluminal milieu, we studied the localization of these proteins in the human efferent and the epididymal ducts by immunohistochemistry. In addition, immunohistochemistry of several SLC26-interacting proteins was performed: the Na+/H+ exchanger 3 (NHE3), the Cl− channel cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), the proton pump V-ATPase, their regulator Na+/H+ exchanger regulating factor 1 (NHERF-1), and carbonic anhydrase II (CAII). Our results show that SLC26A6, CFTR, NHE3, and NHERF-1 are co-expressed on the apical side of the nonciliated cells, and SLC26A2 appears in the cilia of the ciliated cells in the human efferent ducts. In the epididymal ducts, SLC26A6, CFTR, NHERF-1, CAII, and V-ATPase (B and E subunits) were co-localized to the apical mitochondria rich cells, while SLC26A7 was expressed in a subgroup of basal cells. SLC26A8 was not found in the structures studied. This is the first study describing the localization of SLC26A2, A6 and A7, and NHERF-1 in the efferent and the epididymal ducts. Immunolocalization of human CFTR, NHE3, CAII, and V-ATPase in these structures differs partly from previous reports from rodents. Our findings suggest roles for these proteins in male fertility, either independently or through interaction and reciprocal regulation with co-localized proteins shown to affect fertility, when disrupted.
Comparison of the Safety and Immunogenicity of a Refrigerator-Stable Versus a Frozen Formulation of ProQuad (Measles, Mumps, Rubella, and Varicella Virus Vaccine Live)
Authors: Bernstein Henry H. , Eves Karen , Campbell Kristy , Black Steven B. , Twiggs Jerry D. , Reisinger Keith S. , Conti Ralph M. , Flodmark Carl-Erik , Rombo Lars , Klopfer Stephanie , Schödel Florian , Hartzel Jonathan , Kuter Barbara J. ,   and the Refrigerator-Stable Formulation Study Group for ProQuad
Published: May 2007

OBJECTIVE. A refrigerator-stable formulation of ProQuad has been developed to expand the utility of ProQuad to areas in which maintenance of a frozen cold chain (−15°C or colder) during storage and transport may not be feasible. The objective of this study was to demonstrate that the immunogenicity and safety profiles of a refrigerator-stable formulation of ProQuad are similar to the recently licensed frozen formulation.

METHODS. In this double-blind, randomized, multicenter study, healthy 12- to 23-month-old children with negative vaccination and clinical histories for measles, mumps, rubella, varicella, and zoster were vaccinated with either the refrigerator-stable formulation of ProQuad (N = 1006) or the frozen formulation of ProQuad (N = 513). Patients were followed for 42 days after vaccination for adverse experiences. Immunogenicity was evaluated 6 weeks after vaccination.

RESULTS. The refrigerator-stable formulation of ProQuad was generally well tolerated. The incidence of adverse experiences was similar between groups. No vaccine-related serious adverse experiences were reported. For both groups, the response rate was ≥97.7% for measles, mumps, and rubella, and the percentage of patients with a varicella zoster virus antibody titer of ≥5 U/mL glycoprotein antigen-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay after vaccination was ≥88.8%. The geometric mean titers for all antigens were numerically slightly higher in patients who received the refrigerator-stable formulation.

CONCLUSIONS. The refrigerator-stable formulation of ProQuad is generally well tolerated, highly immunogenic, and noninferior in terms of postvaccination antibody responses. This refrigerator-stable formulation may improve ease of vaccine administration, increase use of the vaccine throughout the world because of its improved storage conditions, and replace the frozen formulation of ProQuad or any dose of M-M-RII and Varivax in routine practice.
To Clean or Not to Clean: Effect on Contamination Rates in Midstream Urine Collections in Toilet-Trained Children
Authors: Vaillancourt Suzanne , McGillivray David , Zhang Xun , Kramer Michael S.
Published: May 2007

OBJECTIVE. Urinary tract infection is one of the most common bacterial infections among children. Difficulty in specimen collection and interpretation of inadequately collected specimens may contribute to misdiagnosis of urinary tract infection. Our objective was to assess the effect of perineal/genital cleaning on bacterial contamination rates of midstream urine collections in toilet-trained children.

METHODS. We conducted a randomized trial in toilet-trained children who presented to a tertiary care pediatric emergency department between November 1, 2004, and October 1, 2005. All toilet-trained children who were between the ages of 2 and 18 years and had a midstream urine sample requested were eligible. Those whose parents consented were cluster-randomized by week to either cleaning or not cleaning the perineum with soap. The risk for a contaminated urine culture (defined as growth of <108 colony-forming units per liter [<105 colony-forming units per milliliter] of a single organism or a mix of ≥2 organisms) and the risk for a positive urinalysis (defined as a positive leukocyte esterase and/or nitrites on dipstick or ≥5 white blood cells per high-powered field on a standard microscopic examination) were analyzed by intention to treat.

RESULTS. A total of 350 children were enrolled. The rate of contamination in the cleaning group was 14 (7.8%) of 179 vs 41 (23.9%) of 171 in the noncleaning group. Children who were randomly assigned to cleaning were less likely to have a positive urinalysis (37 of 179 [20.6%]) than those in the noncleaning group (63 of 171 [36.8%]).

CONCLUSIONS. Urine contamination rates are higher in midstream urine that is collected from toilet-trained children when obtained without perineal/genital cleaning. Cleaning may reduce the risk for returning for repeat cultures and for receiving unnecessary antibiotic treatment and investigations.
Community-acquired infectious pneumonia in puppies: 65 cases (1993–2002)
Authors: Radhakrishnan Anant , Drobatz Kenneth J. , Culp William T. N. , King Lesley G.
Published: May 2007

Objective—To identify causative organisms, treatment, outcome, and prognosis for dogs < 1 year old with community-acquired infectious pneumonia.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—65 dogs.

Procedures—Dogs were considered to have community-acquired infectious pneumonia if they had clinical signs of primary respiratory tract disease in conjunction with radiographic evidence of alveolar disease and positive results following bacterial culture of tracheal wash fluid.

Results—Most dogs were hypoxemic at the time of initial examination, with pulmonary function becoming worse during the first few days of hospitalization before improving; 57 (88%) dogs survived to discharge. Bordetella bronchiseptica was isolated from tracheal wash fluid from 32 (49%) dogs, and other organisms, predominantly gram-negative enteric bacteria, were isolated from the other 33 (51%). Dogs with Bordetella pneumonia were significantly younger (median, 14 vs 21 weeks), were significantly more likely to have been obtained from a pet store (19/31 vs 7/32), had been owned for a significantly shorter time prior to the onset of illness (median, 18 vs 90 days), had significantly higher PvCO2 values at initial examination (median, 48.7 vs 41.3 mm Hg), were significantly more likely to receive supplemental oxygen (25/32 vs 16/33), and had significantly longer hospitalization times (mean, 7.2 vs 4.9 days) than did dogs with pneumonia caused by any other organism.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that a type of community-acquired infectious pneumonia could be identified in dogs < 1 year old, with disease being more severe in dogs with Bordetella pneumonia than in dogs with pneumonia caused by other bacterial organisms.
Long-term outcome associated with intratumoral chemotherapy with cisplatin for cutaneous tumors in equidae: 573 cases (1995–2004)
Authors: Théon Alain P. , Wilson W. David , Magdesian K. Gary , Pusterla Nicola , Snyder Jack R. , Galuppo Larry D.
Published: May 2007

Objective—To determine outcome associated with cutaneous tumors treated via intratumoral chemotherapy with cisplatin and identify risk factors affecting local tumor control and complications in equidae.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—573 equidae with 630 cutaneous tumors.

Procedures—Medical records of horses, mules, donkeys, and ponies with cutaneous tumors treated via intratumoral chemotherapy with cisplatin were analyzed.

Results—549 horses, 13 mules, 8 donkeys, and 3 ponies with 630 histologically confirmed cutaneous tumors were included. Tumors included sarcoids (n = 409), squamous cell carci nomas (151), soft tissue sarcomas (28), cutaneous lymphomas (26), and melanomas (16). Overall cure rate, defined as local control at 4 years, was 93.3%. For all tumor stages combined, cure rates after 1 course of treatment were 96.3% for sarcoids, 96% for lym-phomas, 88% for squamous cell carcinomas, 85% for soft tissue sarcomas, and 81% for melanomas. Treatment protocol, tumor stage, and prior treatment were significant prog nostic factors for tumor control. Treatment efficacy was lower for large tumors, those with gross postoperative residual disease, and those that had been treated previously with other modalities. Treatment was well tolerated. Local reactions were more likely to occur and to be more severe after the third and fourth treatment sessions.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results confirmed the value of intratumoral chemotherapy with cisplatin for treatment of cutaneous tumors in equidae.The results cannot be extrapolated to other formulations of cisplatin or other protocols that might be used.
Infection with Mycobacterium simiae complex in four captive Micronesian kingfishers
Authors: Travis Erika K. , Junge Randall E. , Terrell Scott P.
Published: May 2007

Case Description—4 captive adult Micronesian kingfishers (Halcyon cinnamomina cinnamomina) at 3 zoologic institutions were examined routinely or because of dyspnea or lethargy.

Clinical Findings—All birds had marked hepatomegaly. Two birds had dyspnea caused by compression of air sacs by the enlarged liver, and 1 bird had generalized weakness and lethargy. Three birds had distended coelomic cavities, and 3 birds were thin or had lost weight. There were no consistent abnormalities in blood analytes. Results of most ancillary diagnostic tests such as acid-fast staining of cloacal or fecal swab specimens and culture of feces for acid-fast bacteria were negative. Results of examination of hepatic biopsy speci-mens in 2 of 4 birds were suggestive of mycobacteriosis.

Treatment and Outcome—3 birds died or were euthanized soon after diagnosis. One kingfisher was isolated and monitored for 4 months without treatment and died during anesthesia for disease monitoring. Postmortem histologic examination revealed histiocytic hepatitis and acid-fast bacteria in all 4 birds. Bacteriologic culture of liver specimens yielded Mycobacterium simiae complex in all 4 birds.

Clinical Relevance—Infection with M simiae complex should be considered in ill Micronesian kingfishers, and further monitoring is warranted to determine whether this is an emerging pathogen in this species.
L'inférence lexicale chez des locuteurs de français et des locuteurs de persan lors de la lecture de textes anglais : effet de la lexicalisation en première langue
Authors: Sima Paribakht T. , Tréville Marie-Claude
Published: May 2007

Abstract:

This paper reports on an introspective study that compared lexical inferencing behaviours of Farsi and French speaking readers of English when they encountered unfamiliar words that are lexicalized versus those which are not lexicalized in their native language. Subjects were 20 Farsi-speaking and 20 French-speaking intermediate level learners of English in educational contexts. The results indicate many similarities but also some differences in these learners' guessing patterns of the target English words. The findings are interpreted in light of the linguistic features of the participants' native languages, their first language processing habits, as well as the context of their target language learning.
Comments from the Classroom: A Case Study of a Generation-1.5 Student in a University IEP and Beyond
Authors: Vásquez Camilla
Published: May 2007

Abstract:

This case study examines the patterns of participation of one US-educated refugee student in a university intensive English program (IEP). Specifically, I illustrate how the focal student used her advanced oral proficiency and prior experience with US educational norms and practices to engage in various interactional behaviours, such as shifting participation structures, taking an active role in classroom management, and positioning herself as more knowledgeable than her peers. Using observational and interview data, I demonstrate that such behaviours resulted in teachers' constructions of this student as ‘highly engaged and motivated’ despite their assessment of her written work as ‘poor-to-average.’ Finally, I link this student's behaviours to classroom performance outcomes and show that although her ‘good student’ behaviours enabled her to complete her high school and university ESL programs successfully, those behaviours - and her highly advanced oral proficiency - were ultimately insufficient to ensure her academic success beyond the IEP.
Insulin Resistance: Concepts, Controversies, and the Role of Nutrition
Authors: Sievenpiper John L. , Jenkins Alexandra L. , Whitham Dana L. , Vuksan Vladimir
Published: May 2007

Insulin resistance is a prevalent condition, in which insulin loses its normal physiological action. Since people were first classified as insulin resistant over 60 years ago, one of the main discoveries has been that insulin resistance clusters with other risk factors such as obesity, elevated triglycerides, and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, increasing cardiovascular disease risk. Although insulin resistance appears to manifest first in the periphery and then in the liver, other sites, such as the brain and the pancreatic β-cell, may play pathogenic roles. Factors contributing to insulin resistance at these sites include perturbations in free fatty acids, glucose, and hormone-signalling, some of which may be linked to various genetic polymorphisms. Appropriate nutritional treatment for insulin resistance is controversial. Two main approaches are drawn from diabetes recommendations: i) a high-carbohydrate, low-fat, highfibre diet emphasizing low glycemic-index foods and ii) sharing calories between monounsaturated fat and complex carbohydrate at the expense of saturated fat. Recent interest in insulin resistance has prompted the development of new guidelines. Promising data have also emerged, showing that a high-carbohydrate, high-fibre, low-fat diet plus exercise programs maintained through intensive counselling can decrease diabetes risk by over 40%. Additional research is required to confirm the sustainability of this approach and sort out the determinants of insulin resistance so that more effective nutritional interventions will result.
Weight Management In ChildhoodCanadian Dietitians’ Practices
Authors: Wray Shalene , Levy-Milne Ryna
Published: May 2007

Canadian dietitians specializing in pediatric practice were surveyed to provide a preliminary profile of the strategies they use to manage overweight youth. The survey was mailed to 298 dietitians belonging to the Dietitians of Canada's (DC) Pediatric Nutrition and Consulting Dietitians’ Networks and to the head dietitians in Canadian pediatric hospitals across the country. It was also posted on the DC website and sent by electronic mail. Of the 164 respondents, 65 reported that they provide an intervention program to overweight youth. Growth charts, ideal body weight, and body mass index were mostly used to assess and monitor overweight. However, about 20% of the respondents did not define overweight in their client population. The majority of the clients were girls aged seven to 18. Most respondents used the healthful lifestyle approach via one-on-one consultation, included parents and collaborated with two or more health professionals for the management of these children. As the discussion on best practices for the prevention and treatment of overweight youth continues, we need further evidence to determine what strategies, if any, support positive outcomes in this group.
What Do Ontario Children Eat for Breakfast? Food Group, Energy and Macronutrient Intake
Authors: Hooper Michelle , Evers Susan
Published: May 2007

This study included 305 children living in Ontario in 1993. Our objective was to determine the proportion of daily energy and macronutrient intake consumed at breakfast, and the major food groups contributing to this meal. Demographic data were obtained in a parent interview that was part of the prevention project Better Beginnings, Better Futures. A single 24-hour recall among parents indicated that breakfast provided a mean of 1,230 (± 607) kJ. Although only 4.9% (n=15) of children ate nothing at breakfast, 26.9% had <837 kJ. Many (59.7%) had a mid-morning snack; however, children who consumed <837 kJ at breakfast were not more likely to have a snack than were those who had a greater energy intake. The major sources of energy were foods from the milk (27.4%), cereals (22.1%), and breads (14.1%) groups. Energy intake at breakfast was no different in children whose household income was at or above the low-income cutoff than in children whose household income was below the cutoff. While few children missed breakfast, many needed more energy at this meal, and non-economic as well as economic influences on breakfast consumption need to be identified.
Status of Prior Learning Assessment in Dietetic Internship Programs
Authors: Lordly Daphne
Published: May 2007

The purpose of this exploratory study was to further our knowledge of how the concept of prior learning assessment is being operationalized within dietetic internship programs. We reasoned that such knowledge would allow us to determine if the profession is capitalizing on associated benefits. A six-item, multi-part, self-administered survey was faxed to all internship directors (n=42). Results indicate that although programs are aware of prior learning assessment, its application is not consistent. Barriers include procedural, implementation, and philosophical issues. The study results provide information for educators and policy-makers to understand better the factors that influence prior learning assessment implementation and usage. Information related to current usage and perceived barriers can assist in the development of a professional prior learning assessment philosophy, which can guide decision-making, development, implementation, and evaluation of new and existing prior learning assessment initiatives.
Diet, Obesity and Educationin Three Age Groups of Saskatchewan Women
Authors: Hall Kristyn D. , Stephen Alison M. , Reeder Bruce A. , Muhajarine Nazeem , Lasiuk Gail
Published: May 2007

Research on relationships between socioeconomic status and Canadians’ diet is limited. The current study investigated differences by education in dietary variables shown to be related to obesity; it included three age groups of Saskatchewan women who participated in the 1992 to 1993 Heart Health Intervention Evaluation baseline study. Multistage sampling was used to select randomly from the Saskatchewan Health Insurance Registration File. The overall response rate was 42.6%; a sample representative of the general Saskatchewan population was obtained. Three-day estimated food records and demographic information from 396 women aged 18 to 74 years were subdivided into three age categories: 18 to 34 years, 35 to 54 years, and 55 to 74 years. For the 18- to 34-year group, obesity was significantly more prevalent with lower education; trends were similar for the older age groups. Under-reporting of energy intake (indicated by an energy intake:basal metabolic rate ratio of <1.1) was related to obesity but not to education. The greatest differences in diet between educational groups were observed in the 18- to 34-year group; fewer differences existed in the 35- to 54-year group, and none in the 55- to 74-year group. Health promotion efforts need to be targeted appropriately, and based on differences in dietary intakes by socioeconomic group. Research should help promote an understanding of the reasons for differences in diet by socioeconomic status.
Nutritional Riskin Vulnerable Community-Living Seniors
Authors: Keller Heather H. , McKenzie Jacquelyn D.
Published: May 2007

The purpose of this study was to quantify nutritional risk in a convenience sample of vulnerable, community-living seniors, and to determine patterns of nutritional risk in these seniors. The sample consisted of 367 seniors who provided health, functional, and nutritional risk information during an interview in which the Seniors in the Community: Risk Evaluation for Eating and Nutrition questionnaire was used. The majority (73.6%) of the sample was female, and the mean age was 79 years. Nutritional risk was identified in 68.7% of the sample, with 44.4% being at high nutritional risk. Common nutritional risk factors were weight change, restricting food, low fruit and vegetable intake, difficulty with chewing, cooking, or shopping, and poor appetite. Principal components analysis identified four independent components within the Seniors in the Community: Risk Evaluation for Eating and Nutrition questionnaire; these components can be described as low food intake, poor appetite, physical and external challenges, and instrumental activity challenges. Data are sparse on nutritional risk in community-living Canadian seniors; despite methodologic limitations in the recruitment process, this study provides some indication of the level of nutrition problems. The patterns of nutritional risk identified in this vulnerable population may help providers identify useful strategies for ameliorating risk. The Seniors in the Community: Risk Evaluation for Eating and Nutrition questionnaire could be used to identify risk and patterns of risk in Canadian seniors, so that treatment could be individualized.
Issues in Implementing School Nutrition Policies
Authors: McKenna Mary L.
Published: May 2007

The implementation of school nutrition policies poses a challenge to dietitians as they work with schools to increase the availability of nutritious foods. An analysis of the implementation of the Food and Nutrition Policy for New Brunswick Schools, proclaimed by the department of education in 1991, revealed four factors that influenced implementation: selling food for profit, student choice, interpretation of the policy, and the approach to implementation. From 1997 to 1999, data were obtained from 50 participants at the provincial, district, and school levels through semi-structured interviews; supporting evidence was obtained through a review of pertinent documents. The policy goal was to develop good eating habits among schoolchildren. The policy objective to have all food services follow national guidelines for healthy eating was so controversial that implementation was inconsistent and had little impact on school foods. Opponents objected when the sale of certain foods was curtailed, felt the policy limited student choice, were unsure how to interpret it, and resented the department's top-down approach. Dietitians, who had minimal involvement with the New Brunswick policy, need to consider carefully how to work with educational agencies to combine support and pressure to foster the capacity and willingness of schools to implement nutrition policies.
Une approche participative pour la prévention du diabète de type 2 chez les jeunes francophones du Nouveau-Brunswick
Authors: Villalon Lita , Leclair Cédée-Anne
Published: May 2007

A participatory approach for the prevention of type 2 diabetes for francophone youth of New Brunswick

Diabetes, a serious public health problem, is on the rise, claiming millions of victims. A considerable body of research exists on diabetes, but the development of effective primary prevention strategies is just beginning. This article presents the results of a project, based on an innovative approach where health professionals and community groups have come together to address the issue. The purpose of the project is to develop an intervention strategy for the prevention of type 2 diabetes directed at young francophones living in a minority environment in New Brunswick and adapted to their needs. Qualitative data were gathered from two focus groups and submitted for a content analysis. The process was evaluated. The young francophones have identified the school environment as ideal for intervention. According to them, the intervention should be adapted to the age of the youths. For the 5-to-13-year-old group, the intervention should target healthy eating habits and physical activity whereas for the 14-to-18-year-old group, the emphasis should be on preventing diabetes. The youth and the professionals acquired a greater understanding of the problem of diabetes and its prevention. Youth can now proceed to action, with appropriate guidance. The experience and knowledge of the professionals contributed to the development of the strategy. A shortage of dietitians in public health to work in the area of the prevention of diabetes has been noted.
Food Habits of Canadians: Food Sources of Nutrients for the Adolescent Sample
Authors: Phillips Sandy , Starkey Linda Jacobs , Gray-Donald Katherine
Published: May 2007

Adolescents need good nutrition, both to grow to their full potential and to decrease their risk of obesity and chronic diseases in adolescence and later life. The Food Habits of Canadians study provides data on the important food sources of energy and nutrients in a sample of Canadian teenagers. One 24-hour recall was obtained for 178 teenagers living in households participating in a national survey of 1,543 adults. Foods were categorized into 51 groups, and ranked according to contribution of key nutrients, energy, and fibre. Top contributors to energy and other nutrients included foods of low nutrient density (cakes/cookies/pastries, carbonated beverages, sugars/jams/syrups, and salty snacks). A high intake of nutrient-poor foods, particularly high-sugar beverages, is a concern for this sample of Canadian teenagers.
Assessing the Need for Hot Meals: A Descriptive Meals on Wheels Study
Authors: Parsons Karen , Roll Caryn
Published: May 2007

According to recent literature, delivering chilled Meals on Wheels to seniors increases food quality and safety. The purpose of this study was to determine the acceptability and/or feasibility of a cook-chill delivery system for participants in the Maimonides Geriatric Centre Meals on Wheels program in Montreal, Quebec. The authors also evaluated whether the meal was eaten upon delivery, documented where the meal was stored if consumption was delayed, determined what cooking/heating appliances were used and if the recipients were capable of heating up their meals, and assessed preferences for receiving chilled versus hot meals. Upon receiving the meal, 89% of the 60 seniors did not eat it immediately. Those who ate the meal later stored it in the refrigerator. All had some appliance available to heat the delivered meal; 55% used a microwave. Approximately 75% did not object to receiving meals chilled. The majority of recipients did not require delivery of hot meals, as most delayed consuming the meal until later in the day. Other meal-delivery program planners can use these findings when deciding if a cook-chill system is appropriate for their client populations.