bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resolution of a Proteinuric Nephropathy Associated with Babesia gibsoni Infection in a Dog
Authors: Slade Dennis J. , Lees George E. , Berridge Brian R. , Clubb Fred J. , Kuczynski Leslie A. , Littman Meryl P.
Published: November 2011

A 4 yr old male castrated Labrador retriever was evaluated for a short history of inappetance, lethargy, small-bowel diarrhea, polyuria, and polydipsia. Clinicopathologic abnormalities were consistent with protein-losing nephropathy and renal azotemia. Expansive infectious disease testing implicated Babesia gibsoni via whole blood polymerase chain reaction. Renal histopathology results were consistent with membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis and immune complex deposition. The dog was treated with azithromycin, atovaquone, and one dose of corticosteroids/cyclophosphamide. Three months after therapy was completed, the dog was clinically healthy, and all clinicopathologic abnormalities (including Babesia species polymerase chain reaction) had resolved. Atypical presentations of Babesia gibsoni should be considered with proteinuric nephropathy.
Intramedullary Epidermoid Cyst in the Thoracic Spine of a Dog
Authors: Lipitz Lisa , Rylander Helena , Pinkerton Marie E.
Published: November 2011

A 5 yr old female spayed mastiff was evaluated for a 3–4 mo history of paraparesis and 3 days of acutely worse paraparesis and incontinence. On magnetic resonance imaging, a spinal cord lesion was present at the ninth thoracic vertebra. The lesion was hyperintense on T2-weighted images (T2-W), and a hyperintense rim was present on T1-weighted postcontrast images. Histologic examination showed a cystic mass lined by squamous epithelial cells. Histopathologic diagnosis was an intramedullary epidermoid spinal cyst. Epidermoid cyst should be a differential diagnosis in young dogs with a myelopathy and an intramedullary spinal cord lesion on magnetic resonance imaging examination.
Hypocalcemia Following Surgical Treatment of Metastatic Anal Sac Adenocarcinoma in a Dog
Authors: Saba Corey , Ellis Angela , Cornell Karen
Published: November 2011

A 9 yr old neutered male mixed-breed dog was presented for an anal sac apocrine gland adenocarcinoma with regional nodal metastases. At presentation, ionized calcium was 1.91 mmol/L (NOVA Stat reference range, 1.1–1.3 mmol/L). Surgical excision of the primary tumor and metastatic lymph nodes was performed. Following surgery, symptomatic hypocalcemia was noted. Repeated ionized calcium measurements confirmed hypocalcemia, and hypercalcemia of malignancy panels suggested parathyroid gland suppression as the cause. The calcium normalized with parenteral calcium administration, but calcium later became elevated with tumor recurrence and an increase in the parathormone-related peptide. Disrupted calcium homeostasis is a potential complication following the treatment of long-standing humoral hypercalcemia of malignancy.
Blastomyces dermatitidis Prostatic and Testicular Infection in Eight Dogs (1992–2005)
Authors: Totten Amy Kaye , Ridgway Marcella D. , Sauberli Debra S.
Published: November 2011

This was a retrospective case study of eight dogs diagnosed with prostatic or testicular B. dermatitidis infection. Signalment, clinical presentation, diagnostic procedures, and treatment options were evaluated. Review of medical records of dogs diagnosed with blastomycosis at the University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospital from 1992 to 2005 yielded four dogs with prostatic blastomycosis (PB) and four dogs with testicular blastomycosis (TB). Three of the four dogs with PB and all four dogs with TB had evidence of urogenital disease. Three dogs with PB had an elevated body temperature and all had systemic disease. All dogs with TB had a normal body temperature, and three had systemic disease and one had clinical signs limited to testicular disease. Cytology or histopathology was used to diagnose PB or TB. Treatment included itraconazole or fluconazole with or without nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. PB and TB are infrequently recognized and may be under diagnosed due to failure to specifically evaluate these tissues. PB or TB should be considered in the evaluation and staging of male dogs with blastomycosis. Male dogs with urogenital signs should be evaluated via prostatic or testicular cytology or histopathology since proper identification and management of PB or TB may improve overall treatment success.
Pilot Evaluation of a Vacuum-Assisted Biopsy Instrument for Percutaneous Renal Biopsy in Dogs
Authors: Manashirova Marina , Pressler Barrak M. , Gelb Hylton R. , Heng Hock Gan , Lenz Stephen D. , Ochoa-Acuna Hugo G. , Freeman Lynetta J.
Published: November 2011

Kidney biopsies in dogs are commonly obtained using automated spring-loaded biopsy instruments. Interpretation of biopsies from dogs with glomerular disease requires examination of at least 5–10 glomeruli, with at least two biopsies usually required for full evaluation. The purpose of this study was to compare quality and interpretability of renal biopsies obtained from healthy dogs with a large-gauge, vacuum-assisted biopsy instrument versus two biopsies obtained with a spring-loaded biopsy needle. Twenty dogs were randomized into two groups, and percutaneous, ultrasound-guided renal biopsies were evaluated using standard criteria. There were no significant differences in the number of biopsies that contained renal tissue, cortex, or medulla. Biopsies obtained with either instrument contained an adequate number of glomeruli and an equivalent number of arterioles and severity of tissue compression. Differences included easier penetration of the renal capsule and collection of sufficient tissue for interpretation with only one instrument pass when using the vacuum-assisted device (vs two passes required with the spring-loaded instrument). Before use in client-owned dogs, future studies should evaluate whether these differences are clinically relevant advantages in the diagnostic evaluation of dogs with kidney disease, and determine the prevalence and severity of complications when using this larger gauge device.
Comparison of Subjective and Objective Intradermal Allergy Test Scoring Methods in Dogs with Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Hubbard Tomeshia L. , White Patricia D.
Published: November 2011

An intradermal allergy test (IDT) is an important diagnostic tool for identifying offending allergens in canine atopic dermatitis. No standardized method of scoring an IDT has been described. The purpose of this study was to determine whether there is a correlation between a conventional, subjective IDT scoring method based on perceived wheal diameter, erythema, and turgor (0–4+) and an objective scoring method based on measuring wheal diameter alone. Thirty-four atopic dogs were skin tested with 68 different allergens. All skin tests were performed according to standard procedures, and any IDT score ≥2+ was considered clinically significant. When the subjective IDT scores were compared with the objective IDT scores in all dogs, there was a moderate level of correlation overall (r=0.457; P <0.0001). The highest level of agreement between subjective and objective scores was noted with the reactions assigned subjective scores of “0” and “2+.” Overall, there was a slight level of agreement between subjective and objective scores based on clinical significance (i.e., subjective scores ≥2+; κ=0.20; P <0.0001). In conclusion, the authors believe that the objective scoring method used in this study may provide a point of reference for inexperienced individuals (dermatology residents, veterinarians, technicians) when learning to grade an IDT.
Elective and Emergency Surgical Management of Adrenal Gland Tumors: 60 Cases (1999–2006)
Authors: Lang Jennifer M. , Schertel Eric , Kennedy Shawn , Wilson Diane , Barnhart Matthew , Danielson Briana
Published: November 2011

Sixty-one adrenal gland tumors were surgically removed from 60 dogs. Fifty-two dogs underwent elective adrenalectomy and 8 dogs underwent emergency adrenalectomy for acute adrenal hemorrhage. Size of adrenal tumors ranged from 10 mm to 80 mm. Histopathology confirmed a diagnosis of adrenocortical tumor in 47 dogs, 26 of which were malignant. Pheochromocytoma was diagnosed in 11 dogs. Six dogs had tumor invasion of the caudal vena cava. Of the seven dogs that did not survive the perioperative period, four underwent emergency adrenalectomy. No dogs with tumor invasion of the caudal vena cava died perioperatively. Perioperative morality rates were 5.7% for dogs that underwent elective adrenalectomy and 50% for dogs that underwent emergency adrenalectomy for acute adrenal hemorrhage. Median survival time was 492 days for the 53 dogs that survived the perioperative period. Of the factors analyzed, only adrenal tumor size and the presence of acute adrenal hemorrhage had predictive values for perioperative mortality. Those dogs that survived the perioperative period had extended survival times of up to 1,590 days. The mortality rate associated with elective adrenalectomy in dogs may be lower than previously reported. Dogs with very large tumors or acute adrenal hemorrhage may have a more guarded prognosis.
Protein Structural Domains: Definition and Prediction
Authors: Ezkurdia Iakes , Tress Michael L.
Published: November 2011

Recognition and prediction of structural domains in proteins is an important part of structure and function prediction. This unit lists the range of tools available for domain prediction, and describes sequence and structural analysis tools that complement domain prediction methods. Also detailed are the basic domain prediction steps, along with suggested strategies for different protein sequences and potential pitfalls in domain boundary prediction. The difficult problem of domain orientation prediction is also discussed. All the resources necessary for domain boundary prediction are accessible via publicly available Web servers and databases and do not require computational expertise. Curr. Protoc. Protein Sci. 66:2.14.1‐2.14.16. © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Survey of Protein Engineering Strategies
Authors: Bornscheuer Uwe , Kazlauskas Romas J.
Published: November 2011

Protein engineering is altering the structure of a protein to improve or change its properties. This unit summarizes concepts for protein engineering using rational design, directed evolution, and combinations of them. Different strategies are presented for identifying the best mutagenesis method, how to identify desired variants by screening or selection, and examples for successful applications are given. This should enable researchers to choose the most promising tools to solve their protein engineering challenges. Curr. Protoc. Protein Sci. 66:26.7.1‐26.7.14. © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Back‐and‐forth endoscopic septoplasty: analysis of the technique and outcomes
Authors: Trimarchi Matteo , Bellini Chiara , Toma Salvatore , Bussi Mario
Published: November 2011

Background:

To describe our clinical experience in 218 consecutive patients undergoing endoscopic back‐and‐forth septoplasty (EBFS), examining surgical indications, technique, and follow‐up.

Methods:

From January 2005 to November 2008, 218 patients underwent EBFS at the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy. The indication for EBFS in this series was nasal airway obstruction (NAO). Patients were studied with nasal rigid endoscopy and in some cases computed tomography (CT) was used to exclude rhinosinusitis. The most common concomitant diagnoses included allergic rhinitis and turbinate hypertrophy. EBFS facilitates the interruption of perichondrial and periosteal bridges, which are more represented in the anterior portion of the septum between the caudal quadrangular cartilage and the vomeropremaxillary crest. Septal splints were positioned. No nasal packing was required.

Results:

No cases required conversion to a traditional headlight approach, and no intraoperative complications were encountered. Intraoperative mucosal microlacerations occurred in 77.98% of cases; suturing was required in only 8.25% of cases. Of 218 patients, 74.77% experienced resolution of NAO, while 16.06% experienced only improvement; 9.17% noted the persistence of symptoms. Complications included transient dental pain/hypesthesia (6.88%), septal hematoma (5.04%), synechiae formation (2.29%), epistaxis (1.83%), septal perforation (1.83%), cheek swelling (0.45%), and septal abscess (0.45%).

Conclusion:

EBFS as a variation of endoscopic septoplasty (ES) represents a viable procedure with good outcomes and a low rate of complications. The technique allows lysis of tissue fibers while preserving the integrity of mucosa at the critical area using less force and reduces the probability of mucosal tears, based on embryologic knowledge of anatomical dissection. © 2011 ARS‐AAOA, LLC.
Microwave‐Assisted Synthesis of Colloidal Inorganic Nanocrystals
Authors: Baghbanzadeh Mostafa , Carbone Luigi , Cozzoli P. Davide , Kappe C. Oliver
Published: November 2011

Colloidal inorganic nanocrystals stand out as an important class of advanced nanomaterials owing to the flexibility with which their physical–chemical properties can be controlled through size, shape, and compositional engineering in the synthesis stage and the versatility with which they can be implemented into technological applications in fields as diverse as optoelectronics, energy conversion/production, catalysis, and biomedicine. The use of microwave irradiation as a non‐classical energy source has become increasingly popular in the preparation of nanocrystals (which generally involves complex and time‐consuming processing of molecular precursors in the presence of solvents, ligands and/or surfactants at elevated temperatures). Similar to its now widespread use in organic chemistry, the efficiency of “microwave flash heating” in dramatically reducing overall processing times is one of the main advantages associated with this technique. This Review illustrates microwave‐assisted methods that have been developed to synthesize colloidal inorganic nanocrystals and critically evaluates the specific roles that microwave irradiation may play in the formation of these nanomaterials.
The experimental results and simulation of temperature dependence of brittle‐ductile transition in PVC/CPE blends and PVC/CPE/nano‐CaCO3 composites
Authors: You Feng , Chen Guangshun , Zou Jiajia , Yang Zhuo , Guo Shaoyun
Published: November 2011

The effect of chlorinated polyethylene (CPE) content and test temperature on the notched Izod impact strength and brittle‐ductile transition behaviors for polyvinylchloride (PVC)/CPE blends and PVC/CPE/nano‐CaCO3 ternary composites is studied. The CPE content and the test temperature regions are from 0–50 phr and 243–363 K, respectively. It is found that the optimum nano‐CaCO3 content is 15 phr for PVC/CPE/nano‐CaCO3 ternary composites. For both PVC/CPE blends and PVC/CPE/nano‐CaCO3 ternary composites, the impact strength is improved remarkably when the CPE content or test temperature is higher than the critical value, that is, brittle‐ductile transition content (CBD) or brittle‐ductile transition temperature (TBD). The TBD is closely related to the CPE content, the higher the CPE content, the lower the TBD. The temperature dependence of impact strength for PVC/CPE blends and PVC/CPE/nano‐CaCO3 ternary composites can be well simulated with a logistic fitting model, and the simulation results can be illustrated with the percolation model proposed by Wu and Jiang. DMA results reveal that both PVC and CPE can affect the TBD of PVC/CPE blends and PVC/CPE/nano‐CaCO3 composites. When the CPE content is enough (20 phr), the CPE is more important than PVC for determining the TBD of PVC/CPE blends and PVC/CPE/nano‐CaCO3 composites. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations reveal that the impact fractured mechanism can change from brittle to ductile with increasing test temperature for these PVC systems. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Hydrogels for water filters: Characterization and regeneration
Authors: Ahmed Abd El‐Shafey I.
Published: November 2011

Acrylic acid was crosslinked with N,N′‐methylenebisacrylamide followed by a reaction with hexamethylenetetramine (HMTA) to form a new hydrogel, Gel (2). Water absorbance rate and retention of Gel (2) were characterized. At the same time, factors affecting absorbance rate such as pH, temperature, and ions concentration were studied. The rate decreased with decreasing pH and increasing ions concentration, whereas increased with raising temperature. The effect of the hydrogel on bacterial (Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli) viability and growth rate was determined. Gel (2) has achieved a 5 log reduction on both E. coli and S. aureus in 2 h while no cells were detected after 3 h in case of S. aureus and 4 h in case of E. coli. Lifetime and regeneration of Gel (2) using both stirred flask and column (a model for a water filter) methods were determined. Identifying the lifetime using columns showed that the gel stays active up to 5 and 7 runs for both E. coli and S. aureus respectively. In addition, it was recycled successfully up to 10 times, using column and stirred flask methods, against both types of bacteria. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Effect of flexibility of ethylene vinyl acetate and crystallization of polypropylene on the mechanical properties of i‐PP/EVA blends
Authors: Kakkar Dipti , Maiti S. N.
Published: November 2011

Polymer blend technology has been widely used for the past several years for the modification or enhancement of mechanical properties of polymers to obtain an overall balance of properties over those of the constituents. Despite its interesting mechanical and thermal properties, the impact strength of polypropylene leaves wide scope for improvement. A series of blends of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer with an impact grade of isotactic polypropylene (i‐PP) were prepared by single screw extrusion at 0–0.32 volume fraction of the dispersed phase. The mechanical properties such as tensile behavior, elongation‐at‐break, and impact strength of these blends systems as well as crystallinity were evaluated. Crystallinity data have been used in greater depth to support the mechanical properties. Differential scanning calorimetry studies conducted to study the modification in crystallinity of the crystalline component, i‐PP, of the blend revealed that the rubber component of the blend enhanced the crystallinity of i‐PP phase by providing sites for nucleation. Tensile modulus and strength decreased while the impact strength and breaking elongation enhanced with blending elastomer concentration. The improved properties of these PP/EVA blends are encouraging for carrying out further work on this system (composites) and suggest potential high impact strength applications for PP. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Studies of AC conductivity and dielectric relaxation behavior of CdO‐doped nanometric polyaniline
Authors: Roy Aashis S. , Anilkumar Koppalkar R. , Prasad M. V. N. Ambika
Published: November 2011

The Cadmium oxide doped in nanocrystalline polyaniline (CdO/PANI) composite were prepared with various weight percentages by in situ polymerization method using aniline, ammonium per sulfate, and CdO as starting materials. The frequency dependent conductivity and dielectric behavior of PANI/CdO composites have been studied. The formation of nano PANI and PANI/CdO composites with regards to the structural and microstructural properties of the materials were investigated by XRD, FTIR, and SEM techniques. The variation of σac with frequency obeys Jonscher power law except a small deviation in the low frequency region and is due to dipole polarization effect. The σac increases with increase in CdO concentration. Studies of dielectric properties at lower frequencies show that the relaxation behavior is superimposed by dipole polarization effect. The appearance of peak for each concentration in the loss tangent suggests the presence of relaxing dipoles in the PANI/CdO composite. On addition of CdO, the peak shifts toward higher frequency side indicating the speed up of the relaxation time. Analysis of frequency dependent dielectric suggests that the electronic and polymer segmental motions are strongly coupled. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Life‐History Correlates of Enamel Microstructure in Cebidae (Platyrrhini, Primates)
Authors: Hogg Russell T. , Walker Robert S.
Published: November 2011

Previous studies have examined tooth eruption as it relates intrinsically to body mass, brain mass, and other life history variables, and extrinsically to ecological factors (e.g., age at foraging independence, environmental risk aversion, and maternal investment). Different models have been explored wherein each of these variables impacts ontogeny. However, anthropoid and strepsirhine primates exhibit interesting differences in the relationships of these ecological and life history variables with tooth eruption. Moreover, interactions between ecological variables and dental tissue growth have only been explored in the lemurs. This study examines dental microstructure of the New World monkey family, Cebidae, to provide further insight into forces influencing the evolution of primate dental ontogeny. The Cebidae were chosen because they are a diverse group which is distinct in ecology and phylogeny from the better known catarrhines of the Old World. Using phylogenetic generalized least squares analyses (PGLS), we test whether brain mass, body mass, or the three above‐mentioned ecological variables have stronger correlations with enamel growth. Results show that ecological factors have stronger relationships with cebid dental growth rates than brain or body mass. Foraging independence has the most impact on overall enamel growth as it has the strongest correlation with enamel extension rates. However, another estimate of enamel growth, rate of secretion, has the highest correlation with maternal investment. Our results suggest that an overarching ecological model encompassing the three current ecological hypotheses is needed to further understand the evolution of dental ontogeny within primates. Anat Rec,, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tail Architecture and Function of Cebupithecia sarmientoi, a Middle Miocene Platyrrhine from La Venta, Colombia
Authors: Organ Jason M. , Lemelin Pierre
Published: November 2011

Cebupithecia sarmientoi, an early pitheciine from the Middle Miocene of La Venta, Colombia, preserves an almost complete caudal vertebral sequence (18 vertebrae). Behavioral reconstructions for this taxon based on appendicular elements suggest a locomotor profile similar to that of Pithecia for which vertical clinging postures and leaping behavior are frequently adopted. General tail morphology suggests some similarity with prehensile‐tailed Cebus in the proximal tail region, although overwhelming similarity with nonprehensile‐tailed Pithecia is evident in the distal tail region. Indices of caudal muscle attachment sites show marked similarities to nonprehensile‐tailed platyrrhines, especially Pithecia. However, the cortices of Cebupithecia caudal vertebral bodies are thicker than those of most other nonprehensile‐tailed New World primates. Mechanically, this would provide high resistance to bending and torsional stresses, falling within the range exhibited by prehensile‐tailed monkeys. These results suggest that Cebupithecia may have employed its tail differently than most nonprehensile‐tailed platyrrhines living today, behaviors that possibly involved tail‐bracing or twisting during hindlimb (pedal grasping) suspensory behaviors. Such behaviors may serve as a preadaptive model for the full‐fledged evolution of below‐branch tail suspension and prehensility seen in other New World primates. Anat Rec, , 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mechanoreceptivity of Prehensile Tail Skin Varies Between Ateline and Cebine Primates
Authors: Organ Jason M. , Muchlinski Magdalena N. , Deane Andrew S.
Published: November 2011

Prehensile tails evolved independently twice in primates: once in the ateline subfamily of platyrrhine primates and once in the genusCebus. Structurally, the prehensile tails of atelines andCebusshare morphological features distinguishing them from nonprehensile tails (e.g., robust and strong caudal vertebrae, well developed lateral tail musculature, etc.). However, because of their independent evolutionary histories, the prehensile tails of atelines exhibit some differences from theCebusprehensile tail. Ateline tails are relatively longer than those ofCebus, and they have less well‐developed extensor compartment musculature. However, perhaps the most obvious difference is the distinctive hairless friction pad on the ventrodistal surface of the ateline tail; the tail ofCebusis completely covered in hair. This study documents the presence of four epicritic histologic mechanoreceptors in the friction pad of atelines: Meissner's corpuscles, Pacinian corpuscles, Ruffini corpuscles, and Merkel discs. Ruffini corpuscles and Merkel cells were also identified in the ventrodistal skin of theCebustail. However, Meissner's and Pacinian corpuscles (not typically associated with hairy skin) were not found inCebus.Cebuswas also compared to its closest living sister taxon, nonprehensile‐tailedSaimiri, in which genus only Ruffini corpuscles are observed (no Merkel discs). The differences in mechanoreceptor type and morphology are attributed to the contrasting behavioral and tactile demands of the tail as it is used in posture and locomotion, which also distinguishes atelines fromCebus. Anat Rec,, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Physical Properties of Fruit and Seeds Ingested by Primate Seed Predators with Emphasis on Sakis and Bearded Sakis
Authors: Norconk Marilyn A. , Veres Michael
Published: November 2011

Several primate radiations exhibit dental adaptations that enable them to gain access to seeds embedded in well‐protected fruit. To a database drawn from published sources in which hardness of fruit and seeds were tested in the field, we added an additional 100+ species of plants used as resources by pitheciin primates (specifically, South American white‐faced sakis (Pithecia pithecia) and bearded sakis (Chiropotes spp.). This sample allowed us to compare hardness of fruit and seeds and deduce the relative incisive and masticatory capability of several primate taxa (New World monkeys, Old World monkeys, prosimians and chimpanzees). Pitheciins have very well developed and highly modified anterior dentition that they use in gaining access to mechanically‐protected fruit. In addition, their molars bear thin, but decussated enamel that protects the tooth enamel from crack proliferation. The ability of sakis (Chiropotes spp. and Pithecia pithecia) to open fruit orally was comparable to larger‐bodied Old World seed predators—Lophocebus and Cercocebus. But, baboons and chimpanzees masticate seeds that are two to three orders of magnitude harder than sakis or mangabeys. In spite of their puncture abilities, ∼40% of foods ingested by pitheciins were in the range of a ripe fruit eater (Ateles paniscus). This raises the possibility that pitheciins exemplify Liem's paradox, that is, “that phenotypic specialization [is] not accompanied by ecological specialization” (Robinson and Wilson, 1998:224). Last, we examined the possibility that seeds may serve as fallback resources for primate seed predators. While pericarp hardness may vary seasonally for some seed predators (e.g., mangabeys), our data on bearded sakis and white‐faced sakis suggest that seeds are their primary resources year round and pericarp hardness is unrelated to seasonal variation in rainfall. Pitheciins evolved specialized dentition that affords them access to relatively abundant and high‐quality resources, a feeding strategy that results in minimal variation in resource availability seasonally. Anat Rec, , 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Vomeronasal Organ of New World Monkeys (Platyrrhini)
Authors: Smith Timothy D. , Garrett Eva C. , Bhatnagar Kunwar P. , Bonar Christopher J. , Bruening Amanda E. , Dennis John C. , Kinznger Jonathan H. , Johnson Edward W. , Morrison Edward E.
Published: November 2011

Although all platyrrhine primates possess a vomeronasal organ (VNO), few species have been studied in detail. Here, we revisit the microanatomy of the VNO and related features in serially sectioned samples from 41 platyrrhine cadavers (14 species) of mixed age. Procedures to identify terminally differentiated vomeronasal sensory neurons (VSNs) via immunolabeling of olfactory marker protein (OMP) were used on selected specimens. The VNO varies from an elongated epithelial tube (e.g., Ateles fusciceps) to a dorsoventrally expanded sac (e.g., Saguinus spp.). The cartilage that surrounds the VNO is J‐shaped or U‐shaped in most species, and articulates with a groove on the bony palate. Preliminary results indicate a significant correlation between the length of this groove and length of the VNO neuroepithelium, indicating this feature may serve as a skeletal correlate. The VNO neuroepithelium could be identified in all adult primates except Alouatta, in which poor preservation prevented determination. The VNO of Ateles, described in detail for the first time, had several rows of VSNs and nerves in the surrounding lamina propria. Patterns of OMP‐reactivity in the VNO of perinatal platyrrhines indicate that few or no terminally differentiated VSNs are present at birth, thus supporting the hypothesis that some platyrrhines may have delayed maturation of the VNO. From a functional perspective, all platyrrhines studied possess structures required for chemoreception (VSNs, vomeronasal nerves). However, some microanatomical findings, such as limited reactivity to OMP in some species, indicate that some lineages of New World monkeys may have a reduced or vestigial vomeronasal system. Anat Rec,, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Making of Platyrrhine Semifolivores: Models for the Evolution of Folivory in Primates
Authors: Rosenberger Alfred L. , Halenar Lauren , Cooke Siobhán B.
Published: November 2011

Among living New World monkeys, Howlers and Muriquis are by far the most folivorous. We examine how well the morphology and behavior of Alouatta and Brachyteles conform to leaf‐eating adaptational models derived from other studies. Both genera match these expectations unevenly, which suggests a broader conception of primate folivory is in order. Hence the notion of “semifolivory.” While their dentitions prove highly sensitive to selection for leaf‐eating, core features relating to body size, brain size, ranging behavior and presumed energy budgets are less predictable corollaries. Leaf‐eating in atelines and colobines may have evolved from a preadaptive reliance on seed‐eating, which would have necessitated comparable gastric adaptations. Fossils suggest semifolivory in the low‐energy Howler lineage may have begun with an increase in body size, a relatively small brain and, possibly, a concomitantly enlarged gut, followed by dental adaptations. It may have advanced via body‐size reduction, part of a pioneering adaptation in marginal ecologies on the periphery of rich Amazonian habitats or as a strategy to minimize competition among an abundance of frugivores within the lowland forest—perhaps not as a fallback scheme. In the high‐energy Muriqui, semifolivory may have evolved in more intensely seasonal, low‐yield forests where frugivores were constrained and rare, a model more consistent with the fallback paradigm. The seed‐to‐leaves evolutionary pathway hypothesized for anthropoid leaf‐eaters may be a widespread phenomenon in primates. We propose it is ultimately rooted in a pre‐euprimate reliance on the seeds and seed coats of primitive angiosperms before the latter evolved attractive sugary fruits to coax primates into becoming dispersers of seeds, instead consumers. Anat Rec, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Relative Brain Size, Gut Size, and Evolution in New World Monkeys
Authors: Hartwig Walter , Rosenberger Alfred L. , Norconk Marilyn A. , Owl Marcus Young
Published: November 2011

The dynamics of brain evolution in New World monkeys are poorly understood. New data on brain weight and body weight from 162 necropsied adult individuals, and a second series on body weight and gut size from 59 individuals, are compared with previously published reports based on smaller samples as well as large databases derived from museum records. We confirm elevated brain sizes for Cebus and Saimiri and also report that Cacajao and Chiropotes have relatively large brains. From more limited data we show that gut size and brain mass have a strongly inverse relationship at the low end of the relative brain size scale but a more diffuse interaction at the upper end, where platyrrhines with relatively high encephalization quotients may have either relatively undifferentiated guts or similar within‐gut proportions to low‐EQ species. Three of the four main platyrrhine clades exhibit a wide range of relative brain sizes, suggesting each may have differentiated while brains were relatively small and a multiplicity of forces acting to maintain or drive encephalization. Alouatta is a likely candidate for de‐encephalization, although its “starting point” is difficult to establish. Factors that may have compelled parallel evolution of relatively large brains in cebids, atelids and pitheciids may involve large social group sizes as well as complex foraging strategies, with both aspects exaggerated in the hyper‐encephalized Cebus. With diet playing an important role selecting for digestive strategies among the seed‐eating pitheciins, comparable in ways to folivores, Chiropotes evolved a relatively larger brain in conjunction with a moderately large and differentiated gut. Anat Rec, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Kinetically controlled enzymatic synthesis of dipeptide precursor of l‐alanyl–l‐glutamine
Authors: Wang Mengfan , Qi Wei , Yu Qingxin , Su Rongxin , He Zhimin
Published: November 2011

An important nutritional dipeptide precursor, benzoyloxycarbonyl protected l‐alanyl–l‐glutamine (Z–Ala–Gln), was successfully prepared through a kinetically controlled enzymatic peptide synthesis method. A commercially available and low‐cost protease (papain) was used as biocatalyst with Z–Ala–OMe and Gln as acyl donor and nucleophile, respectively. The dipeptide yield was 35.5% under the optimized reaction conditions: 35°C, pH 9.5, and the ratio of acyl donor/nucleophile is 1:10. Based on the reaction mechanism and experimental data, the kinetic model was established, which was in accordance with the Michaelis–Menten equation, and the apparent Michaelis constant K and the apparent maximum reaction rate r were calculated as 1.71 mol/L and 6.09 mmol/(L Min), respectively.
Construction and characterization of an anti‐asialoglycoprotein receptor single‐chain variable‐fragment‐targeted melittin
Authors: Zhao Xiaorong , Yu Zhen , Dai Wentao , Yao Zhenjiang , Zhou Wei , Zhou Weiping , Zhou Junli , Yang Yonggang , Zhu Yinchang , Chen Sidong , Cao Limin
Published: November 2011

Antibody–therapeutic agent conjugation to be delivered specifically to tumor cells is required for many target‐based therapeutic strategies. In the present study, a recombinant immunotoxin was constructed by which melittin was fused to an anti‐asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR) single‐chain variable fragment antibody (C1), and targeting ability and cytolytic efficacy of the fusion protein were studied. Our results suggested that the recombinant 29.4 kDa protein C1M was expressed in Escherichia coli as a soluble style. Binding of C1M to the surface of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells was confirmed by both immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry assays. C1M kept the hemolytic activity of melittin and exhibited cytolytic capacity to HepG2 cells at a concentration of 1.5 µg/mL, under which erythrocytes would not be lysed. The effects were greatly inhibited by coadministration with asialoorosomucoid, a natural ligand for ASGPR. These results suggested that C1M conferred targeting and ASGPR‐specific cytotoxicity to HCC cells. This work makes it possible to further investigate its antihepatoma efficacy in vivo.
Optical coherence tomography assessment of calcified plaque modification after rotational atherectomy
Authors: Attizzani Guilherme F. , Patrício Lino , Bezerra Hiram G.
Published: November 2011

Rotational atherectomy (RA) facilitates stent delivery in highly calcified coronary plaques (CCP). However, lesion ablation by RA in angulated segments may be affected by guidewire bias, leading to a non‐uniform plaque modification. Intravascular optical coherence tomography (iOCT) is the highest resolution (∼10 μm axial) intravascular imaging modality available for clinical use; furthermore, near infrared light easily penetrates calcium, with significantly fewer artifacts, including no “blooming effect” as seen by intravascular ultrasound. Therefore, it may pose as a unique tool for serial calcium quantification, as related in this article with pre‐ and post‐RA assessment, allowing accurate characterization of plaque modification, as well as quality of stent deployment. The effects of guidewire bias in the debulking process have not been well documented by iOCT. We present a case of lesion preparation by RA affected by guidewire bias in which iOCT revealed unique insights into CCP modification. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Computational production of colour harmony. Part 2: Experimental evaluation of a tool for gui colour scheme creation
Authors: Moretti Giovanni , Marsland Stephen , Lyons Paul
Published: November 2011

Although webpage and computer interface designers generally have little experience at generating effective colour schemes, colour selection appears only rarely in user interface design literature. This article describes the experimental evaluation of an algorithmic technique that applies colour harmony rules to the selection of colour schemes for computer interfaces and web pages. The technique uses a genetic algorithm to evolve colour schemes; the evolutionary path is determined by a quantitative colour harmony evaluation function.

Our technique first creates abstract colour schemes by applying those rules to specific features of the interface or web page; the user then holistically modifies the scheme's overall colour cast, overall saturation, and light–dark distribution, producing colourings that are both harmonious and usable. We demonstrate experimentally that the software is relatively simple to use and produces colourings that are well‐received by humans.

In an earlier article, the criteria for a colour harmony tool for computer interfaces and websites were described and used in the design of the Colour Harmoniser, our software implementation of a system that is based on classical rules of colour harmony, adapted and extended to suit graphical user interfaces.

In this article, we describe two sets of experiments that have demonstrated the usability and effectiveness of the Colour Harmoniser tool, compared with standard methods of colour selection. These experiments suggest that the tool functions somewhat more effectively than we originally anticipated, producing colour schemes that were rated more highly on several quality scales than those produced by random choice, by humans who self‐classify as nonartists, and by humans who self‐classify as artists. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 38, 218–228, 2013.
Computational production of colour harmony. Part 1: A prototype colour harmonization tool
Authors: Moretti Giovanni , Lyons Paul , Marsland Stephen
Published: November 2011

Although web page and computer interface developers generally have little experience in generating effective colour schemes, colour selection appears rarely in user interface design literature, and there are few tools available to assist in appropriate choice of colours. This article describes an algorithmic technique for applying colour harmony rules to the selection of colour schemes for computer interfaces and web pages. Our software implementation of this approach—which we term the Colour Harmoniser—adapts and extends classical colour harmony rules for graphical user interfaces, combining algorithmic techniques and personal taste. A companion article presents the experimental evaluation of the system presented here. Our technique applies a set of rules for colour harmony to specific features of the interface or web page to create abstract colour schemes; the user then modifies the overall colour cast, saturation, and light–dark distribution, producing colourings that are both harmonious and usable. We demonstrate experimentally that the software is relatively simple to use and produces colourings that are well‐received by humans. In this article, we define a fitness function that numerically evaluates the colour harmony of a user interface and underpins a genetic algorithm for creating harmonious schemes. We show how abstract, hue‐independent, colour schemes may be mapped to real colour schemes, leaving the abstract colour harmony unchanged, but accommodating the developer's personal preferences for overall colouring, light–dark contrast, and saturation. This abstract/concrete separation automates the creation of harmonious schemes and allows unskilled developers to express their aesthetic preferences using simple direct manipulation controls. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 38, 203–217, 2013.
Results of an Australian trial using SurePath liquid‐based cervical cytology with Focalpoint computer‐assisted screening technology
Authors: Bowditch Ron C. , Clarke Joanne M. , Baird Phillip J. , Greenberg Merle L.
Published: November 2011

BD FocalPoint GS™ computer‐assisted screening of BD SurePath® liquid‐based cervical cytology slides (SP + FP) was compared with screening an accompanying conventional cervical Papanicolaou (Pap) smear (CON) in a split sample trial of 2,198 routine specimens. The rate of unsatisfactory specimens in the SP + FP arm was 0.2% compared with 4.1% in the conventional Pap smear, a significant reduction. There was no statistically significant difference between SP + FP and CON for the detection of histologically confirmed high‐grade (HG) lesions in the routine split sample specimens (n = 9). To further test the sensitivity of SP + FP for HG lesions, 38 SurePath slides from confirmed HG cases, without an accompanying CON, were interpolated among the routine smears. In every one of the 47 confirmed HG cases, either HG cells were present in the microscope fields selected by FocalPointGS™ for review by the screening cytologist (46 of 47), or full screening of the slide was indicated by the FocalPointGS™ (1 of 47), confirming the effectiveness of SP + FP technology for primary screening. In a small number of cases, the screening cytologist did not recognize the abnormality even though on review HG cells were present in fields selected by FocalPointGS™. The overall detection rate was 93% for HG squamous lesions; 89% for known HG endocervical glandular lesions; and 91% for known endometrial carcinoma. In conclusion, the SP + FP detected 100% of HG abnormalities in the trial set; significantly reduced the rate of unsatisfactory specimens; and improved the overall screening rate of detection of HG abnormalities particularly of glandular lesions when compared with other screening technologies. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Heterometallic Oximato‐Bridged Linear Trinuclear NiII−MIII−NiII (MIII = Mn, Fe, Tb) Complexes Constructed with the fac‐O3 [Ni(HL)3]– Metalloligand (H2L = pyrimidine‐2‐carboxamide oxime): A Theoretical and Experimental Magneto‐Structural Study
Authors: Kalogridis Cerise , Palacios María A. , Rodríguez‐Diéguez Antonio , Mota Antonio J. , Choquesillo‐Lazarte Duane , Brechin Euan K. , Colacio Enrique
Published: November 2011

Three oximato‐bridged linear trinuclear heterobimetallic complexes of formula [{Ni(HL)3}2M]X·nS [M = Mn3+, X = ClO4–, n = 9, S = H2O (1); M = Fe3+, X = ClO4–, n = 9, S = H2O (2); M = Tb3+, X = NO3–, n = 11, S = CH3OH (3); H2L = pyrimidine‐2‐carboxamide oxime] were prepared from the reaction of the in situ generated [Ni(HL)3]– complex with the corresponding M2+ salts for 1 and 2 (which are oxidized to M3+ during the course of the reaction) and the Tb3+ salt for 3. The heterometallic trinuclear [NiMNi]+ cationic entities are formed by the coordination of two [Ni(HL)3]– metalloligands to the central M3+ metal ion through three facially arranged oxime oxygen atoms belonging to the H2L ligands. Therefore the HL– ligand acts in a κ2‐N1,N8:κ‐O9 bidentate bridging mode. Compounds 1 and 2 exhibit antiferromagnetic interactions, whereas for 3 the spin‐orbit coupling and the effects of the crystal‐field on the 2S+1LJ states of the Tb3+ ion encumbers the determination of the nature of the magnetic exchange interaction between the Ni2+ and Tb3+ ions through the oximato bridging group. DFT calculations carried out on the solid‐state structures predict J values that match well with the experimental ones. The experimental J values were compared with those observed for analogous NiMNi complexes and their differences justified on the basis of structural parameters such as the Ni–N–O–M torsional angle and the distortion from the OC‐6 octahedral to the TPR‐6 trigonal prismatic geometry.
Assessing environmental contamination around obsolete pesticide stockpiles in West Africa: Using the Nile monitor (Varanus niloticus) as a sentinel species
Authors: Ciliberti Alexandre , Berny Philippe , Vey Danielle , de Buffrénil Vivian
Published: November 2011

Environmental contamination caused by obsolete pesticide stocks was assessed using the Nile monitor (Varanus niloticus) as a sentinel species. Organochlorines and organophosphates were quantified by gas chromatography in abdominal fat and the liver, respectively. Results were compared to those obtained from three other sites, characterized by different histories of contamination. None of the previously stocked pesticides were recovered. Low to moderate levels of 4,4′-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (4,4′-DDE) were quantified in monitors from all sites. Malathion and 4,4′-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethane (4,4′-DDD) also were detected sporadically. Interindividual variability was substantial. Correlations between pesticide loads and individual characteristics were considered. The nondetection of previously stocked pesticides in the monitors' tissues, their contamination by other pesticides, and the value of V. niloticus as a monitoring tool for environmental contamination are discussed. The results indicate a situation of low concern and draw attention to the importance of local conditions in determining environmental dangers associated with potential pollution sources. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2012;31:387–394. © 2011 SETAC