bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Behavioural transition during the estuarine migration of wild Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) smolt
Authors: Martin F. , Hedger R. D. , Dodson J. J. , Fernandes L. , Hatin D. , Caron F. , Whoriskey F. G.
Published: March 2009

Abstract –  Ultrasonic telemetry and hydrodynamic modelling were used to study the migratory behaviour of 54 wild Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) smolt captured in freshwater during their downstream migration and tracked in 2 years through a shallow estuary system. A high‐density, fixed array of receivers provided detailed spatial and temporal resolution of behaviour in the second year of study. Smolt migration in the river occurred mostly at night and downstream migration was slower during the day. In the estuary, smolt moved seaward on ebbing tides and landward on flooding tides. The effect of current velocity was greater during the night than during the day. We documented for the first time that current velocity and diurnal period only accounted for approximately one‐third of the variation in smolt ground speeds in the estuary, indicating that smolt movements were far less passive than previously reported. Smolt energetic status had no effect on smolt swimming behaviour or migratory performance. With an increase in salinity, smolt seaward movements during flooding tides were more frequent, and overall seaward ground velocity increased. The increase in salinity experienced by the smolt during their migration through the leading edge of saltwater intrusion thus induced a behavioural transition from a more passive, fluvial migration to a more active‐ and seaward‐oriented migration.
Putative signaling action of amelogenin utilizes the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway
Authors: Matsuzawa M. , Sheu T.‐J. , Lee Y.‐J. , Chen M. , Li T.‐F. , Huang C. T. , Holz J. D. , Puzas J. E.
Published: March 2009

Background and Objective:  While it has long been known that amelogenin is essential for the proper development of enamel, its role has generally been seen as structural in nature. However, our new data implicate this protein in the regulation of cell signaling pathways in periodontal ligament cells and osteoblasts. In this article we report the successful purification of a recombinant mouse amelogenin protein and demonstrate that it has signaling activity in isolated mouse calvarial cells and human periodontal ligament cells.

Material and Methods:  To determine the regulatory function of canonical Wnt signaling by amelogenin, we used TOPGAL transgenic mice. These mice express a β‐galactosidase transgene under the control of a LEF/TCF and β‐catenin‐inducible promoter. To investigate in greater detail the molecular mechanisms involved in the β‐catenin signaling pathway, isolated osteoblasts and periodontal ligament cells were exposed to full‐length recombinant mouse amelogenin and were evaluated for phenotypic changes and β‐catenin signaling using a TOPFLASH construct and the LacZ reporter gene.

Results:  In these in vitro models, we showed that amelogenin can activate β‐catenin signaling.

Conclusion:  Using the TOPGAL transgenic mouse we showed that amelogenin expression in vivo is localized mainly around the root, the periodontal ligament and the alveolar bone.
The effect of Porphyromonas gingivalis infection on cytokine levels in type 2 diabetic mice
Authors: Nishihara R. , Sugano N. , Takano M. , Shimada T. , Tanaka H. , Oka S. , Ito K.
Published: March 2009

Background and Objective:  Several studies have shown that diabetes mellitus increases the severity of periodontitis. Conversely, periodontitis has been shown to have an impact on diabetes, although the underlying mechanisms of this are unclear. The aim of this study was to compare the inflammatory response to Porphyromonas gingivalis infection in normal and diabetic mice.

Material and Methods:  Porphyromonas gingivalis were inoculated adjacent to the periosteum, at a point on the midline of the skull located between the ears, in C57BL/6 (normal) and KKAy (diabetic) mice. After induction, the levels of tumor necrosis factor‐α, interleukin‐6 and adiponectin in the mice were measured using real‐time polymerase chain reaction and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results:  The KKAy mice showed significant increases in blood glucose, serum tumor necrosis factor‐α and interleukin‐6 levels after inoculation with Porphyromonas gingivalis, and a significant decrease in adiponectin to 35.7%. Similar results were observed at the mRNA level in liver and visceral adipose tissue.

Conclusion:  These observations suggest that tumor necrosis factor‐α, interleukin‐6 and adiponectin are an integral part of the link between diabetes mellitus and Porphyromonas gingivalis infection.
The use of live‐animal micro‐computed tomography to determine the effect of a novel phospholipase A2 inhibitor on alveolar bone loss in an in vivo mouse model of periodontitis
Authors: Cantley M. D. , Bartold P. M. , Marino V. , Reid R. C. , Fairlie D. P. , Wyszynski R. N. , Zilm P. S. , Haynes D. R.
Published: March 2009

Background and Objective:  Live‐animal micro‐computed tomography is a new and promising technique that can be used to quantify changes in bone volume for periodontal disease models. The major aim of this study was to develop the methodology of live‐animal micro‐computed tomography and to determine the effect of a novel secretory phospholipase A2 inhibitor on alveolar bone loss.

Material and Methods:  Periodontitis was induced in mice by oral infection with Porphyromonas gingivalis over a period of 13 wk, and live‐animal micro‐computed tomography scans were taken at different time‐points to determine bone volume changes with disease progression. This enabled conclusions to be made as to when treatment was most likely to be effective. In addition, the model was used to investigate a novel drug, the secretory phospholipase A2 inhibitor, KHO64, and its potential ability to inhibit osteoclast bone resorption and treat periodontitis.

Results:  The results from live‐animal micro‐computed tomography scans revealed greater, statistically significant, bone volume loss in diseased mice compared with normal mice (p < 0.05). This corresponded to a larger area from the cemento–enamel junction to the alveolar bone crest, as assessed by stereo imaging (p < 0.001). These techniques can therefore detect and quantify alveolar bone loss. Both methods revealed that KHO64 had no significant effect on the volume of bone resorption.

Conclusion:  Live‐animal micro‐computed tomography is a robust, reproducible technique that clearly demonstrates significant time‐dependent changes in alveolar bone volume in a small‐animal model of periodontitis.
Porphyromonas gingivalis fimbriae‐dependent interleukin‐6 autocrine regulation by increase of gp130 in endothelial cells
Authors: Ho Y‐S. , Lai M‐T. , Liu S‐J. , Lin C‐T. , Naruishi K. , Takashiba S. , Chou H‐H.
Published: March 2009

Background and Objective:  Local persistent infection by Porphyromonas gingivalis leads to inflammatory systemic diseases, such as atherosclerosis. We have reported previously that avirulent P. gingivalis fimbriae‐dependent invasion into endothelial cells might be involved in progression of atherosclerosis. Although interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) regulates progression of atherosclerosis, little is known about the relationship of P. gingivalis fimbriae‐dependent invasion to IL‐6 regulation in endothelial cells.

Material and Methods:  We examined the secretion of IL‐6 and the expression of the IL‐6 signal transducer gp130 in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) infected with the wild‐type FDC381 strain of P. gingivalisand a fimbriae‐deficient mutant (fimA) by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and flow cytometry (fluorescence‐activated cell sorting, FACS) analysis.

Results:  Coculture of HUVEC with P. gingivalis resulted in increase of IL‐6 secretion at 24 h postinfection. Interestingly, the increase was inhibited significantly in HUVEC infected with the P. gingivalis fimA mutant. In addition, the increase of IL‐6 secretion induced by P. gingivalis infection was significantly impaired by the meiosis specific kinase 1 inhibitor, PD98059, or the nuclear factor κB inhibitor, Bay11‐7082. Furthermore, we demonstrated that gp130 expression increased with P. gingivalis infection. Importantly, gp130 expression was significantly impaired by P gingivalis fimA mutant infection compared with wild‐type P. gingivalis infection, as assessed by both quantitative RT‐PCR and FACS analysis.

Conclusion:  Our findings indicate that P. gingivalis fimbriae are important factors in the autocrine regulation of IL‐6, by increasing gp130 in endothelial cells.
Cigarette smoke extract modulates human β‐defensin‐2 and interleukin‐8 expression in human gingival epithelial cells
Authors: Mahanonda R. , Sa‐Ard‐Iam N. , Eksomtramate M. , Rerkyen P. , Phairat B. , Schaecher K. E. , Fukuda M. M. , Pichyangkul S.
Published: March 2009

Background and Objective:  Human gingival epithelial cells (HGECs) are continually exposed to oral bacteria and to other harmful agents. Their responses to stimuli are critical in maintaining periodontal homeostasis. The aim of this study was to investigate the modulating effect of cigarette smoke extract (CSE) on the innate immune responses of HGECs.

Material and Methods:  Toll‐like receptor (TLR) expression of HGECs was determined by reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). The effect of CSE or nicotine on the expression of the antimicrobial peptide human β‐defensin‐2 (hBD‐2) and the pro‐inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)‐8 in stimulated HGEC cultures was evaluated by RT‐PCR and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results:  The HGECs expressed mRNA of TLRs 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, and minimally of TLR4, but not of TLRs 7 or 8. Stimulation of HGECs with highly purified TLR2, 3 or 5 ligands led to expression of hBD‐2 and of IL‐8. Enhancement of hBD‐2 and IL‐8 was observed in HGECs after combined stimulation with Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide (TLR2 ligand) and tumour necrosis factor‐α, compared with stimulation using either agent alone. After CSE exposure, hBD‐2 expression was markedly reduced in stimulated HGEC cultures, whereas IL‐8 expression was markedly increased. These effects were also observed, but were markedly attenuated, upon nicotine treatment.

Conclusion:  Human gingival epithelial cells play a critical role in orchestrating the innate immune responses of periodontal tissue via TLR signalling. Our results represent the first demonstration that CSE can modulate HGEC function by suppressing hBD‐2 and enhancing IL‐8 production, and this may be, in part, a possible mechanism which promotes periodontal disease.
In vitro and in vivo cytokeratin patterns of expression in bioengineered human periodontal mucosa
Authors: Garzón I. , Sánchez‐Quevedo M. C. , Moreu G. , González‐Jaranay M. , González‐Andrades M. , Montalvo A. , Campos A. , Alaminos M.
Published: March 2009

Background and Objective:  Development of human oral mucosa substitutes by tissue engineering may provide new therapeutic tools for the management of periodontal diseases. In this study we evaluated a fibrin–agarose human oral mucosa substitute both in vitro and in vivo.

Material and Methods:  In vitro bioengineered oral mucosa substitutes were developed from irrelevant biopsy samples of human oral gingiva. In vivo evaluation of the constructed tissues was performed by implantation into athymic nude mice. The expression of several epithelial markers was assessed by microarray analysis and immunohistochemistry.

Results:  Bioengineered oral mucosa samples kept in vitro developed a multilayered epithelium that expressed several cytokeratins, including some markers of simple epithelia (cytokeratins 7, 8 and 18), along with markers of stratified epithelia (cytokeratins 5 and 13) and of cell proliferation (proliferating cell nuclear antigen). Bioengineered tissues grafted in vivo onto nude mice exhibited very good biointegration with the host, showing a cytokeratin expression pattern that was very similar to that of normal native oral mucosa controls. Histological analysis of the artificial tissues demonstrated that oral mucosa substitutes evaluated in vivo were structurally mature, showing some typical structures of human native oral mucosa such as rete ridges and chorial papillae, along with numerous blood vessels at the fibrin–agarose stromal substitute. These structures were absent in samples evaluated in vitro.

Conclusion:  The results indicate that this model of human oral mucosa, constructed using fibrin–agarose scaffolds, shows similarities to native oral mucosa controls and imply that bioengineered oral mucosa substitutes could eventually be used clinically.
Land use legacies in post‐agricultural forests in the Doupovské Mountains, Czech Republic
Authors: Kopecký Martin , Vojta Jaroslav
Published: March 2009

Questions:Do differences in previous land use cause long‐lasting changes in soil chemistry? Is vegetation composition affected by the previous land use after 50 years of secondary succession? Is the effect of previous land use caused by pre‐existing differences in environmental conditions or mediated through changes in soil chemistry? How important is the effect of previous land use in relation to other factors?

Location:Doupovské Mountains, Czech Republic.

Methods:A stratified random sampling design was used to collect 91 vegetation relevés with accompanying soil samples. The effects of previous land use (arable field, meadow, pasture) on soil pH, organic carbon (C), total nitrogen (N), C:N ratio and available phosphorus were tested by an analysis of covariance. A canonical correspondence analysis and variation partitioning procedure were used to reveal relationships among previous land use, environmental factors and species composition.

Results:Organic C, total N and C:N ratio were significantly influenced by previous land use, while available phosphorus and soil pH were not. Previous land use explained a significant part of the variation in species composition and its effects only partly overlapped with the effects of soil chemistry and terrain attributes. However, the species composition of post‐agricultural forests was mostly determined by environmental factors not modified by previous land use.

Conclusions:Forest communities that originate on abandoned agricultural land are primarily determined by natural environmental conditions. Nevertheless, the type of previous land use also modifies the species assemblages of these forests and needs to be considered as an important determinant of their composition.
Effects of raised water levels on wet grassland plant communities
Authors: Toogood Sarah E. , Joyce Chris B.
Published: March 2009

Questions: What are the effects of raised water levels on wet grassland plant communities and dynamics? To what extent do time since raised water levels, vegetation management and water regime influence community composition?

Location: Pevensey Levels, southeast England, UK.

Methods: Plant communities and hydrology were monitored during 2001‐03 within 23 wet grassland meadows and pastures where water levels had been raised for nature conservation at different times over 21 years. Community variations were examined using species abundance and ecological traits.

Results: Water regime, measured as duration of flooding, groundwater level and soil moisture was significantly related to plant community variation. Communities were divided into grasslands where inundation was shallow (≤8 cm) and relatively short (≤3 months) and sites where deeper flooding was prolonged (≥5 months), supporting a variety of wetland vegetation. With increasing wetness, sites were characterised by more bare ground and wetland plants such as sedges, helophytes and hydrophytes, and species with a stress‐tolerating competitive strategy. All sites showed considerable annual dynamics, especially those with substantially raised water levels. There were no significant relationships between time since water levels were raised and plant community composition. Grassland management exerted a limited influence upon vegetation compared to water regime.

Conclusions: Grassland plant communities are responsive to raised water levels and have potential for a rapid transition to wetland vegetation, irrespective of grazing or cutting management. Creation or restoration of wet grasslands by (re)wetting is feasible but challenging due to the high dynamism of wetland plant communities and the need for substantially raised water levels and prolonged flooding to produce significant community changes.
Self‐management education programs for age‐related macular degeneration: A systematic review
Authors: Lee Lily , Packer Tanya L , Tang Seok Hun , Girdler Sonya
Published: March 2009

Objective:  To review the effectiveness of education programs to improve emotional status, daily living and self‐efficacy in adults older than 60 years with age‐related macular degeneration (AMD).

Method:  Electronic searches of three databases and manual searches of references lists located randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐experimental studies. Health education programs aimed at increasing knowledge of AMD, skills training or behavioural change were included. Data extraction and quality assessment were undertaken by two reviewers. A narrative analysis was possible.

Results:  Three protocols were reported in four studies (n = 532) with three follow‐up studies – all contained elements of self‐management programs. Effect sizes for the three outcomes ranged from small to very large (0.14–1.21).

Conclusions:  Self‐management programs appear effective for older adults with AMD. Small sample size, use of non‐traditional statistics and methodological quality meant only a narrative analysis was possible. Future studies with more robust methodology including intent‐to‐treat analysis are still required.
Multiple views reveal the complexity of dementia diagnosis
Authors: Robinson Andrew L , Emden Carolyn G , Elder Jean A , Lea Emma J , Vickers James C , Turner Paul A
Published: March 2009

Objective: To reveal views about dementia diagnosis derived from a larger study of information needs of carers of people with dementia in Tasmania, Australia.

Methods: Over 100 participants, including family carers, health professionals and dementia service personnel, met as discrete focus groups. Data pertinent to dementia diagnosis were segregated and subjected to across‐group comparative analysis.

Results: The term dementia held connotations of stigma and futility, despite stated benefits of having a diagnosis. General practitioners were regarded as pivotal but having inadequate diagnostic and treatment options. While most health professionals advocated a longitudinal diagnostic process, this created considerable stress for family carers who sought a speedy process. Without a diagnosis, some dementia‐specific services were undeliverable.

Conclusion: Dementia diagnosis is steeped in deep‐rooted difficulties and stressful implications, compounded by carers’ differing needs and interests. Better understanding between care providers of their conflicting and consistent views could contribute to better dementia care.
Dog‐assisted therapy for older people with dementia: A review
Authors: Perkins Jacqueline , Bartlett Helen , Travers Catherine , Rand Jacquie
Published: March 2009

This review summarises and critiques the published literature regarding dog therapy for older people with dementia living in residential aged care facilities. Nine studies were identified for inclusion and although the methodological variability of studies makes it difficult to draw firm conclusions, research suggests that dog therapy is beneficial for people with dementia. The most frequently reported findings were an increase in social behaviour and a decrease in agitated behaviour during dog contact. Improvement in social behaviour was found to be unrelated to the severity of dementia. Various improvements on measures of global function were also reported. No study adopted a randomised controlled trial design and a number of potentially important factors were not controlled for, including halo effects of animals on caregivers that may bias caregivers’ responses when acting as proxies for their relatives or residents. The premorbid relationship with dogs may be an important variable influencing outcomes.
The reliability and validity of the Care Planning Assessment Tool
Authors: Fleming Richard
Published: March 2009

Objective: The development of a simple, comprehensive, valid and reliable tool to assist aged care services staff develops and monitors care plans.

Method: An assessment with proven utility in a psychogeriatric setting was modified to improve its relevance to aged care services. Reliability was assessed from the scores obtained from two independent raters assessing 48 randomly selected residents in a large aged care facility. Validity was assessed by comparison with well‐validated measures of cognition and function.

Results: The Care Planning Assessment Tool has very high interrater reliability and good internal consistency. The validity of the subscales compared with well‐validated assessments was very high.

Conclusion: The psychometric properties of the Care Planning Assessment Tool are sufficiently good to allow it to be used with confidence in the care planning process. This is supported by a similar evaluation carried out on the Japanese version.
Malnutrition prevalence and nutrition issues in residential aged care facilities
Authors: Gaskill Deanne , Black Lucinda J , Isenring Elisabeth A , Hassall Stacey , Sanders Fran , Bauer Judith D
Published: March 2009

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of malnutrition and investigate nutritional issues in a sample of older people living in residential aged care facilities (RACFs).

Method: This study forms the descriptive component of a pretest post‐test designed study conducted in eight RACFs. The Subject Global Assessment tool was used to determine the prevalence of malnutrition in 350 residents.

Results: Nearly 70% of residents were women and 79.4% of all residents were classified as high care. Half the residents were well nourished (50.5%) with 43.1% moderately malnourished and 6.4% severely malnourished. Prevalence of malnutrition was significantly higher for residents receiving higher level care (odds ratio (OR) = 2.9 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.7–5.2; P < 0.001)) and older than 90 years (OR = 3.0 (95% CI: 1.8–5.1; P < 0.001)). Of the residents considered to be malnourished, very few (17.8%) had been seen by a dietitian in the past 6 months or were receiving commercial supplements (29.2%).

Conclusions: There is a need for systematic, coordinated and multidisciplinary approaches to nutritional care for older people in residential care.
ADOLESCENT DRUG USERS: THE JUSTICE SYSTEM IS MISSING AN IMPORTANT OPPORTUNITY
Authors: Cooper Caroline S.
Published: March 2009

A significant number of youth and young adults who use drugs have fallen through the cracks of our juvenile and adult justice systems in terms of receiving any meaningful services. The situation is due to a number of factors, including the reliance on adolescent self reporting utilized by most of the research, the failure of justice and other systems to routinely assess youth for either current drug use or indicia of drug use (e.g., “resiliency” or “protective” factors), and confidentiality and other restrictions pertaining to access to juvenile justice system information. Yet, retrospective reviews of drug use patterns for adults in the criminal justice system make it clear that drug use is beginning for most of these offenders during adolescence or before. This article urges (1) juvenile courts to develop mechanisms for systematically screening youth who come into the system for drug use and/or propensities for drug use and (2) adult courts to embark on similar strategies and to develop adolescent tracks that would be geared to providing the services these youth (despite their chronological age) need and would otherwise not receive in the adult system.
CHILD CUSTODY EVALUATIONS: THE NEED FOR SYSTEMS‐LEVEL OUTCOME ASSESSMENTS*
Authors: Kelly Robert F. , Ramsey Sarah H.
Published: March 2009

Child custody evaluations need to be studied systemically as a human service system. There is little research on the history, caseload dynamics, economics, delivery systems, or impact of custody evaluations. This article identifies five systems‐level questions about custody evaluations and examines one, outcomes assessment, in detail by developing seven outcome hypotheses. The article concludes that such research could improve the practice and use of child custody evaluations.
INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE IN THE MILITARY: SECURING OUR COUNTRY, STARTING WITH THE HOME1
Authors: Stamm Simeon
Published: March 2009

This Note discusses domestic violence in the military. Currently, in cases of domestic violence in the military, the Case Review Committee uses the Incident Severity Index for Spouse Abuse to determine the severity of abuse. The Case Review Committee uses this index when determining treatment options for the perpetrator of domestic violence. However, this index is extremely inconsistent with the current views and emerging research of domestic violence. This Note identifies the problems with the current system and gives recommendations for ways to improve the system. The Note concludes that a new system would enhance the military's ability to combat domestic violence.
SPERM DONOR OR THWARTED FATHER? HOW WRITTEN AGREEMENT STATUTES ARE CHANGING THE WAY COURTS RESOLVE LEGAL PARENTAGE ISSUES IN ASSISTED REPRODUCTION CASES
Authors: McDonald Elizabeth E.
Published: March 2009

In recent years, the use of assisted reproduction has risen dramatically in the United States, allowing individuals who face various reproductive challenges, including infertility or absence of a heterosexual partner, to conceive biological children. While assisted reproduction has expanded to meet the needs of these parents, the legal system remains years behind, often leading to complicated child custody disputes between the parties. State legislatures have responded to the call for increased regulation of legal parentage in assisted reproduction in varying ways, although one popular statutory approach requires a known sperm provider to preserve his intention to parent in a written agreement with the woman. This article will argue that written agreement statutes are an effective means for resolving parentage disputes because of their ability to protect pre‐insemination intent and encourage private ordering of conflicts among the parties. These issues will be explored through the lens of a recent case decided by the Kansas Supreme Court, In Re K.M.H., where the court enforced a written agreement statute against a sperm provider despite his equal protection and due process challenges.
Viruses in soils: morphological diversity and abundance in the rhizosphere
Authors: Swanson M.M. , Fraser G. , Daniell T.J. , Torrance L. , Gregory P.J. , Taliansky M.
Published: March 2009

Soil viruses are potentially of great importance as they may influence the ecology and evolution of soil biological communities through both an ability to transfer genes from host to host and as a potential cause of microbial mortality. Despite this importance, the area of soil virology is understudied. Here, we report the isolation and preliminary characterisation of viruses from soils in the Dundee area of Scotland. Different virus morphotypes including tailed, polyhedral (spherical), rod shaped, filamentous and bacilliform particles were detected in the soil samples. An apparent predominance of small spherical and filamentous bacteriophages was observed, whereas tailed bacteriophages were significantly less abundant. In this report, we also present observations and characterisation of viruses from different soil functional domains surrounding wheat roots: rhizosheath, rhizosphere and bulk soil. In spite of the differences in abundance of bacterial communities in these domains, no significant variations in viral population structure in terms of morphology and abundance were found. Typically, there were approximately 1.1–1.2 × 109 virions g−1 dry weight, implicating remarkable differences in virus‐to‐bacteria ratios in domains close to roots, rhizosphere and rhizosheath (approximately 0.27) and in bulk soil (approximately 4.68).
Preliminary experiences of the triple tibial osteotomy procedure: tibial morphology and complications
Authors: Renwick A. I. C. , McKee W. M. , Emmerson T. D. , House A. K.
Published: March 2009

Objective:To document the effect of variable tibial morphology on the planning and execution of the triple tibial osteotomy (TTO) procedure in dogs and complications encountered while becoming familiar with the technique.

Methods:The records of 21 consecutive cases that had a TTO performed were reviewed. Preoperative tibial morphology was assessed. Modifications in the described technique and complications were documented. Postoperative outcome was evaluated using a client‐based questionnaire.

Results:The size of the tibial wedge ostectomy was modified because of variable tibial morphology in four dogs (19 per cent) to avoid over or under correction of the tibial plateau angle (TPA). Intraoperatively, fracture through the caudal tibial cortex occurred in nine cases (41 per cent) and through the distal tibial crest cortex in four cases (18 per cent). Major complications occurred in five (23 per cent) of cases with four (18 per cent) requiring further surgery. The client questionnaire results demonstrated significant improvements in all parameters and no significant difference from the preinjury status.

ClinicalSignificance:TPA measurement is recommended when planning a TTO to avoid over or under correction of the TPA. Despite frequent minor complications, it appears that the TTO is an effective procedure for management of cranial cruciate ligament rupture in the dog.
Transient tricuspid valve regurgitation following surgical treatment of cor triatriatum dexter in a dog
Authors: Chanoit G. , Bublot I. , Viguier E.
Published: March 2009

Echocardiographically documented tricuspid valve regurgitation appeared immediately after surgical treatment of cor triatriatum dexter in a two‐month‐old rottweiler. Medical treatment was instituted with benazepril, spironolactone and furosemide. Pimobendan was added after five months, and all treatment was discontinued two months later when clinical signs of ascites and hepatomegaly had resolved and tricuspid valve regurgitation was markedly reduced on echocardiography. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report describing the development and spontaneous improvement of haemodynamically significant tricuspid valve regurgitation following surgical treatment of cor triatriatum dexter in a dog. It is hypothesised that the increase in right atrial volume and pressure following cor triatriatum dexter repair and transient ischaemia of papillary muscles led to dilatation of the right atrioventricular annulus and subsequent severe tricuspid valve regurgitation in the face of an anatomically normal valve. Time and pharmacological preload reduction as well as normalisation of right atrial inflow and subsequent cardiac remodelling substantially reduced tricuspid valve regurgitation and eliminated clinical signs of heart failure. It is also possible that heart recovery has been spontaneous.
Preliminary study evaluating tests used to diagnose canine cranial cruciate ligament failure
Authors: Carobbi B. , Ness M. G.
Published: March 2009

Objective: To estimate specificity, sensitivity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of tests and signs used for the diagnosis of cranial cruciate ligament failure in dogs.

Methods: One stifle in each of 42 dogs was examined: 25 “affected” and 17 “control” dogs. All dogs were subjected to the following tests when conscious: cranial drawer, tibial compression, patellar tendon palpation and palpation of the medial aspect of the joint. Under general anaesthesia, cranial drawer and tibial compression tests were repeated and a lateral stifle radiograph was taken to evaluate changes of the infrapatellar fat pad. The results were analysed using a 2×2 table method. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value were estimated.

Results: The sensitivity of the cranial drawer and tibial compression tests was surprisingly low when performed on conscious patients but significantly better when performed under anaesthesia. Similarly, palpation of the medial aspect of the stifle joint cannot be considered a reliable indicator of cranial cruciate ligament injury. Patellar palpation and radiographic assessment showed excellent sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value.

Clinical Significance: In the diagnosis of cranial cruciate ligament, it is essential that the clinician is aware of each test’s features and limitations to reduce the risk of misdiagnosis.
Effects of Ionizing Radiation on Microbial Decontamination, Phenolic Contents, and Antioxidant Properties of Triphala
Authors: Kumari N. , Kumar P. , Mitra D. , Prasad B. , Tiwary B.N. , Varshney L.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT:  Triphala, a mixture of Emblica officinalis, Terminalia chebula, and Terminalia bellirica, containing ingredients from plant origin, is often prone to microbial contamination. A high level of microbial contamination was observed in Triphala samples obtained from different sources. On gamma radiation processing, a sharp decline in log CFU was observed with increasing radiation dose and a complete decontamination at 5 kGy. Average D10 value for total aerobic and fungal counts were observed to be 0.55 ± 0.073 kGy and 0.94 ± 0.043 kGy, respectively. Water extracts of irradiated samples showed linearly increasing concentration of gallic acid (3.3 to 4.5 times), total phenolic contents (2.16 to 2.87 times), and antioxidant properties with increasing radiation dose up to 25 kGy. The increase could be attributed to easy release of active ingredients from their radiation degraded complex forms. Aflatoxin B1 and ochratoxin could not be detected in the samples. Gamma‐radiation dose up to 5 kGy could be safely used to hygienize Triphala.
Study on the Interaction between 3 Flavonoid Compounds and α‐Amylase by Fluorescence Spectroscopy and Enzymatic Kinetics
Authors: Li Y. , Gao F. , Gao F. , Shan F. , Bian J. , Zhao C.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT:  The interaction between α‐amylase and 3 flavonoid compounds from tartary buckwheat bran, namely, quercetin (Que), its monoglycoside isoquercetin (Iso), and its diglycoside rutinb (Rut), has been studied by fluorescence spectroscopy and enzymatic kinetics. The results indicate that Que, Iso, and Rut could bind with α‐amylase to form a new complex, which exhibits an obvious fluorescence quenching. We deduce that such a quenching is a static quenching via nonradiation energy transfer. Results from plots and calculations show that the sequence of binding constants (KA) is Iso > Que > Rut. Calculation on thermodynamic parameters reveals that the main driving force of above‐mentioned interaction is hydrophobic. Enzyme activity measurements show that all of the 3 flavonoid compounds are effective inhibitors toward α‐amylase, and the inhibitory mode belongs to a competitive type. The sequence of affinity (1/Ki) is in accordance with the results of binding constants (KA) from fluorescence experiments.
High‐Hydroxypropylated Tapioca Starch Improves Insulin Resistance in Genetically Diabetic KKAy Mice
Authors: Kato R. , Tachibe M. , Sugano S. , Kishida T. , Ebihara K.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT:  The hypoglycemic and antidiabetic effect of hydroxypropyl tapioca starch (HPTS) with a varying degree of substitution (DS: 0.058, 0.091, and 0.180) was investigated in rats and KKAy mice, an animal model of type 2 diabetes. The positive incremental area under the curve (IAUC) for glucose significantly decreased as the DS of HPTS increased. The IAUC after intragastric intubation of the highest HPTS (HPTS‐III, DS = 0.180) was 55% of the IAUC of tapioca starch (TS). After 28 d, fasting blood glucose and insulin concentrations were significantly lower in rats fed HPTS‐III (50 g/kg diet) than in those fed TS (P < 0.05). In KKAy mice fed HPTS‐III (50 or 100 g/kg diet) for 33 d, as compared with TS, there was a delay in the detection of glucose in urine and also a decreased incidence of finding glucose in urine on days 7, 21, and 28; in addition, the AUCs for glucose in the oral glucose tolerance test on days 14 and 28 were significantly lower (P < 0.05 and P < 0.05, respectively). The plasma adiponectin concentration and the quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI) were significantly higher in mice fed HPTS‐III than in those fed TS (P < 0.01), whereas the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) was lower (P < 0.01). Energy intake was significantly lower in mice fed HPTS‐III than in those fed TS. These findings show that HPTS with a high DS resists digestion by α‐amylase and improves insulin resistance in KKAy mice by decreasing energy intake. However, the potential mechanism by which HPTS‐III decreases energy intake is unclear at present.
Sporulation and Germination Gene Expression Analysis of Bacillus anthracis Sterne Spores in Skim Milk under Heat and Different Intervention Techniques
Authors: Liu Y. , Ream A.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT:  To investigate how B. anthracis Sterne spores survive in milk under heat (80 °C, 10 min), pasteurization (72 °C, 15 s), microfiltration, and pasteurization and microfiltration, the expression levels of genes related to sporulation and germination were tested using real‐time PCR assays. Twenty‐seven sporulation‐ and germination‐related genes were selected for the target genes. Our results demonstrated that gene expression levels were altered by heat and microfiltration whereas the pasteurization and pasteurization and microfiltration resulted in less alteration of gene expression. Heat activated and inhibited both sporulation‐ and germination‐related genes, suggesting that bacterial spores underwent different molecular mechanism for heat treatments. Our results may provide some insight into the molecular mechanisms of spore survival in response to heat treatment and different intervention strategies used to treat fluid skim milk.
Nitric oxide‐mediated dispersal in single‐ and multi‐species biofilms of clinically and industrially relevant microorganisms
Authors: Barraud Nicolas , Storey Michael V. , Moore Zoe P. , Webb Jeremy S. , Rice Scott A. , Kjelleberg Staffan
Published: March 2009

Strategies to induce biofilm dispersal are of interest due to their potential to prevent biofilm formation and biofilm‐related infections. Nitric oxide (NO), an important messenger molecule in biological systems, was previously identified as a signal for dispersal in biofilms of the model organism Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In the present study, the use of NO as an anti‐biofilm agent more broadly was assessed. Various NO donors, at concentrations estimated to generate NO levels in the picomolar and low nanomolar range, were tested on single‐species biofilms of relevant microorganisms and on multi‐species biofilms from water distribution and treatment systems. Nitric oxide‐induced dispersal was observed in all biofilms assessed, and the average reduction of total biofilm surface was 63%. Moreover, biofilms exposed to low doses of NO were more susceptible to antimicrobial treatments than untreated biofilms. For example, the efficacy of conventional chlorine treatments at removing multi‐species biofilms from water systems was increased by 20‐fold in biofilms treated with NO compared with untreated biofilms. These data suggest that combined treatments with NO may allow for novel and improved strategies to control biofilms and have widespread applications in many environmental, industrial and clinical settings.
Development of a Field Preconcentration/Elution Unit for Routine Determination of Dissolved Metal Concentrations by ICP‐OES in Marine Waters: Application for Monitoring of the New Caledonia Lagoon
Authors: Moreton Benjamin M. , Fernandez Jean‐Michel , Dolbecq Mathieu B.D.
Published: March 2009

An iminodiacetate chelating resin was optimised for the rapid determination of Co, Cu, Fe, Mn and Ni in seawater. Using inexpensive, high‐capacity, reusable cartridges allowed high flow rates of up to 25 ml min−1. High preconcentration factors, of up to 500, were obtained in order to analyse samples using an ICP‐OES. The requirement for a buffer was eliminated due to the high tolerance of the ICP‐OES to interfering matrix elements, thereby further reducing the potential for contamination. Quantification limits in seawater were: Co = 6 ng l−1, Cu = 8 ng l−1, Fe = 6 ng l−1, Mn = 5 ng l−1 and Ni = 6 ng l−1. The method was verified by the analysis of near shore seawater (CASS‐4) and open ocean seawater (NASS‐5) reference materials. In order to satisfy the high sampling demands using the iminodiacetate cartridges, a portable off‐line preconcentration unit was developed for routine analysis. The multi‐channel preconcentration unit, was capable of treating up to eight samples simultaneously with concentrating times as little as 30 minutes. The technique was also used to determine dissolved metals in fresh and interstitial waters. The technique has been successfully used in a number of environmental studies and impact assessments to evaluate the effects of mining on the New Caledonian lagoon.
Bronchiectasis: an update
Authors: Pappalettera Maria , Aliberti Stefano , Castellotti Paola , Ruvolo Leonardo , Giunta Valeria , Blasi Francesco
Published: March 2009

Background and aims:  Bronchiectasis is defined as an abnormal and irreversible dilatation of the bronchi, often associated with chronic productive cough, airway obstruction, and recurrent infections.

Methods:  MEDLINE data from 1978 to November 2008 was analysed. Search was limited to randomized control trials, clinical trials, meta‐analysis, reviews published in English, using the keyword bronchiectasis.

Results:  The prevalence of bronchiectasis is unknown. However, prevalence seems to increase with age from 4.2 per 100 000 persons aged 18–34 years to 271.8 per 100 000 among those aged 75 years or older. Therapy is aimed to limit the cycle of infection and inflammation and to reduce the number of exacerbations, in order to improve quality of life.

Conclusions:  Bronchiectasis still remain a significant health problem. Further research is required to improve the management of this herterogeneous condition.

Please cite this paper as: Pappalettera M, Aliberti S, Castellotti P, Ruvolo L, Giunta V and Blasi F. Bronchiectasis: an update. The Clinical Respiratory Journal 2009; 3: 126–134.
Induced Pluripotent Reprogramming from Promiscuous Human Stemness‐Related Factors
Authors: Nelson Timothy J. , Martinez‐Fernandez Almudena , Yamada Satsuki , Mael Amber A. , Terzic Andre , Ikeda Yasuhiro
Published: March 2009

Ectopic expression of pluripotency gene sets provokes nuclear reprogramming in permissive somatic tissue environments, generating nduced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells. The evolutionary conserved function of sternness orthologs was tested here through interspecies transduction. A spectrum of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐based lentiviral vectors was designed, and point mutations in the HIV‐1 capsid region were identified for efficient infectivity and expanded transspecies tropism. Human pluripotent gene sequences, OCT3/4, SOX2, KLF4, and c‐MYC, packaged into engineered lentiviral expression vectors achieved consistent expression in nonhuman fibroblasts. Despite variation in primary amino acid sequence between species, introduction of human pluripotent genes produced cell lines with embryonic stem cell‐like morphology. Transduced fibroblasts differentiated in vitro into all three germ layers according to gastrulation gene expression profiles, and formed in vivo teratoma with multilineage potential. Reprogrammed progeny incorporated into nonhuman morula to produce blastomeres capable of developing into chimeric embryos with competent organogenesis. This model system establishes a prototypic approach to examine consequences of human sternness factors‐induced reprogramming in the context of normal embryonic development by exploiting nonhuman early‐stage embryos. Thus, ectopic xenotransduction across species unmasks the promiscuous nature of sternness induction, suggesting evolutionary selection of core processes for somatic tissue reprogramming.
Tissue‐Level Modeling of Xenobiotic Metabolism in Liver: An Emerging Tool for Enabling Clinical Translational Research
Authors: Lerapetritou Marianthi G. , Georgopoulos Panos G. , Roth Charles M. , Androulakis Loannis P.
Published: March 2009

This review summarizes some of the recent developments and identifies critical challenges associated within vitroandin silicorepresentations of the liver and assesses the translational potential of these models in the quest of rationalizing the process of evaluating drug efficacy and toxicity. It discusses a wide range of research efforts that have produced, during recent years, quantitative descriptions and conceptual as well as computational models of hepatic processes such as biotransport and biotransformation, intra‐ and intercelular signal transduction, detoxification, etc. The abovementioned research efforts cover multiple scales of biological organization, from molecule–molecule interactions to reaction network and cellular and histological dynamics, and have resulted in a rapidly evolving knowledge base for a “systems biology of the liver.” Virtual organ/organism formulations represent integrative implementations of particular elements of this knowledge base, usually oriented toward the study of specific biological endpoints, and provide frameworks for translating the systems biology concepts into computational tools for quantitative prediction of responses to stressors and hypothesis generation for experimental design.
Energy relations between Russia and EU with emphasis on natural gas
Authors: Yegorov Yuri , Wirl Franz
Published: March 2009

Russian gas exports play a crucial role in political discussions today. This paper argues that the European strive for energy diversification at present is economically inefficient, given the nearby resources and existing or committed transport network to Russia. Furthermore, this present diversification strategy will put Europe into competition with other consuming regions in the future, when the sources available for diversification turn dry. Hence, the current policy pursued by the EU faces a serious trade off of risking future supplies for present energy security (after all its questionable whether some of these sources are secure). We use the methodology based on the dynamics of gas reserves and path dependency in trade flows based on investment in pipeline infrastructure.
Modelling aviation fuel demand: the case of the United States and China
Authors: Mazraati Mohammad , Faquih Yasser O.
Published: March 2009

The aviation sector's contribution to the world economy is 8 per cent, while using 5.8 per cent of total world oil demand. Within the transportation sector, aviation consumes about 12.7 per cent of the total oil demanded by the transportation sector, with a growth rate of 2.32 per cent per annum in recent years, confirming the importance of aviation in the future energy market and economy. This paper considers modelling fuel demand in aviation sectors of two different markets. Jet fuel demand is modelled in the United States as a matured market and China as a fast growing market. A constant elasticity log‐log model using recent data of passenger aviation traffic, freight aviation traffic and airline load factors for both countries. Economic growth and fuel prices were also considered as determinants in the model. A system of three equations was developed for each country to forecast long‐term jet fuel consumption levels to 2025. The mature US aviation sector was found to react better to price and short‐term economic fluctuations, in contrast with the fast growing Chinese aviation sector, where the hike in prices did not seem to have much effect.