bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brain and lung metastasis of alveolar echinococcosis in a refugee from a hyperendemic area
Authors: Tappe Dennis , Weise David , Ziegler Uwe , Müller Andreas , Müllges Wolfgang , Stich August
Published: October 2008

Alveolar echinococcosis (AE) of the liver with cerebral and pulmonary metastasis was diagnosed in a Tibetan monk who initially presented with severe headache to an emergency department in Germany. Multiple lesions with perifocal oedema and severe compression of the third ventricle were seen with computed tomography (CT) of the brain. Glioma or cerebral metastasis of a hitherto undiagnosed abdominal or pulmonary malignancy was suspected. CT scans of the lung and liver demonstrated further tumorous masses. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain revealed the cystic nature of the cerebral lesions and the patient had a highly positive serology for AE. The echinococcal aetiology of the brain lesions was confirmed by PCR for this refugee from an area where two disease entities, AE and cystic echinococcosis, are hyperendemic.
Two centuries of meningococcal infection: from Vieusseux to the cellular and molecular basis of disease
Authors: de Souza Alexandre Leite , Seguro Antonio Carlos
Published: October 2008

Scientific knowledge of meningococcal infection has increased greatly since the epidemic nature of the illness was first described by Vieusseux at the dawn of the nineteenth century. In fact, revolutionary advances have been made in public-health measures, antimicrobial therapy, diagnostic procedures, anti-inflammatory drugs and supportive care facilities. Based on the knowledge accumulated to date, it is generally accepted that the pathogenesis of meningococcal infection involves multiple links that interconnect in a complex web of phenomena fromNeisseria meningitidisattachment to meningococcal sepsis or meningitis. In fact, a myriad of strongly interacting inflammatory molecules and cells have been implicated in neisserial infection, illustrating the complexity of meningococcal pathogenesis. In addition, many of these signallers are critically involved in outcomes in the human host. Deciphering the pathogenesis of meningococcal infection could expand our knowledge and provide important clues to the host–pathogen interaction, as well as leading to the development of new therapeutic tools. Herein, we review the history of the discovery and characterization of meningococcal disease, epidemiological features of the disease with an emphasis on recent developments in Brazil, the cellular and molecular basis of disease, and discuss diagnosis and therapy.
Paradoxically high resistance of natural killer T (NKT) cell-deficient mice to Legionella pneumophila: another aspect of NKT cells for modulation of host responses
Authors: Hayakawa Kayoko , Tateda Kazuhiro , Fuse Etsu T. , Matsumoto Tetsuya , Akasaka Yoshikiyo , Ishii Toshiharu , Nakayama Toshinori , Taniguchi Masaru , Kaku Mitsuo , Standiford Theodore J. , Yamaguchi Keizo
Published: October 2008

In the present study, we examined the roles of natural killer T (NKT) cells in host defence againstLegionella pneumophilain a mouse model. The survival rate of NKT cell-deficient Jα281 knock-out (KO) mice was significantly higher than that of wild-type mice. There was no bacterial overgrowth in the lungs, but Jα281 KO mice showed enhanced pulmonary clearance at a later stage of infection, compared with their wild-type counterparts. The severity of lung injury inL. pneumophila-infected Jα281 KO mice was less, as indicated by lung permeability measurements, such as lung weight and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid albumin concentration. Recruitment of inflammatory cells in the lungs was approximately twofold greater in Jα281 KO mice on day 3. Interestingly, higher values of interleukin (IL)-1βand IL-18, and increased caspase-1 activity were noted in the lungs of Jα281 KO mice from an early time point (6 h). Exogenousα-galactosylceramide, a ligand of NKT cells, induced IL-12 and gamma interferon at 6 h, but suppressed IL-1βat later time points in wild-type, whereas no effects were evident in Jα281 KO mice, as expected. Systemic administration of heat-killedL. pneumophila, but notEscherichia coliLPS, reproduced exaggerated production of IL-1βin the lungs of Jα281 KO mice. These results demonstrate that NKT cells play a role in host defence againstL. pneumophila, which is characterized by enhanced lung injury and decreased accumulation of inflammatory cells in the lungs. The regulation of IL-1β, IL-18 and caspase-1 may be associated with the modulating effect of host responses by NKT cells.
Slow‐release oral morphine for maintenance treatment of opioid addicts intolerant to methadone or with inadequate withdrawal suppression
Authors: Kastelic Andrej , Dubajic Goran , Strbad Ervin
Published: October 2008

Aims  Evaluation of the efficacy, safety and acceptability of slow‐release oral morphine (SROM) in opioid addicts intolerant to methadone or with inadequate withdrawal suppression.

Design  Prospective, open, non‐comparative multi‐centre study.

Setting  Twelve out‐patient Centres for Prevention and Treatment of Drug Addiction in Slovenia.

Participants  Male and female opioid addicts (age >18 years) under methadone maintenance therapy requiring a change of treatment in order to continue more effectively with maintenance.

Interventions  Maintenance therapy with methadone was switched to once‐daily SROM.

Measurements  Efficacy evaluations were based on the reduction of side effects and on the degree of suppression of opiate craving, signs and symptoms of withdrawal. In addition, self‐reported somatic and psychic symptoms (SCL‐27) as well as World Health Organization quality of life‐related (WHO QOL) parameters were monitored.

Findings  Thirty‐nine subjects intolerant to methadone and 28 subjects showing inadequate withdrawal suppression under methadone ≥90 mg/day were included as two separate groups in the efficacy analyses. Treatment was switched easily from methadone to SROM on a 1 : 8 ratio. Four‐week SROM treatment resulted in significant reduction of side effects reported under methadone. Signs and symptoms of opioid withdrawal as well as craving for opiates were improved significantly in patients with inadequate response to methadone. Physical and psychological wellbeing improved significantly under SROM treatment. SROM was tolerated very well.

Conclusions  Maintenance treatment with SROM appears to be a clinically useful alternative treatment in subjects not tolerating methadone or with inadequate withdrawal suppression.
Persistence with oral naltrexone for alcohol treatment: implications for health‐care utilization
Authors: Kranzler Henry R. , Stephenson Judith J. , Montejano Leslie , Wang Shaohung , Gastfriend David R.
Published: October 2008

Aims  Concerns have been raised about patients' failure to persist in alcohol treatment. We examined prescriptions for oral naltrexone in a large, nationally distributed treatment population to identify characteristics and health‐care utilization patterns associated with persistence.

Design  Data from the 2000–2004 MarketScan® Commercial Claims and Encounters Database were used to identify patients with alcohol‐related claims who were prescribed naltrexone.

Measurements  Analysis identified patient characteristics that predicted persistence with naltrexone (defined as having filled prescriptions for ≥80% of the 6‐month treatment period) and its association to health‐care utilization.

Findings  Of 1138 patients, 162 (14.2%) were persistent in obtaining naltrexone. Non‐persistent patients were significantly younger, more likely to be hourly employees and to live in an area with a lower median income, and less likely to be newly diagnosed with an alcohol‐related disorder. Non‐persistence in obtaining naltrexone was associated with significantly more intensive treatments, including inpatient detoxification, emergency room visits and hospitalizations.

Conclusions  Over a 6‐month period, 85.8% of patients who filled an initial prescription for naltrexone did not persist in obtaining the medication. Non‐persistence was associated with significantly greater use of costly health‐care services. Because the study was correlational, it is not possible to conclude that persistence reduced health‐care costs, as patients with a better prognosis may have been more persistent. Research is needed to determine whether interventions that enhance persistence with naltrexone therapy improve treatment outcomes and reduce health‐care costs.
Proinflammatory cytokine gene single nucleotide polymorphisms in common variable immunodeficiency
Authors: Rezaei N , Amirzargar A A , Shakiba Y , Mahmoudi M , Moradi B , Aghamohammadi A
Published: October 2008

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is a heterogeneous group of primary immunodeficiency diseases. Cytokine production could be affected in CVID patients, whereas its alteration could be due to genetic polymorphisms within coding and promoter regions of the cytokine genes. This study was performed to analyse the proinflammatory cytokine single nucleotide polymorphisms in CVID. The allele and genotype frequencies of a number polymorphic genes coding tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1β, IL-1R, IL-1RA and IL-6 were investigated and compared between two groups of CVID patients and controls. The IL-6 GA genotype at position nt565 was significantly over-represented in the patient group (P < 0·001), while the IL-6 GG genotype at position −174 (P = 0·006) and the GG genotype at position nt565 (P < 0·001) were significantly lower than controls. The TNF-α AG genotype at position −308 in the patient group was increased significantly in comparison with controls (P = 0·027), but the GG genotype at the same position was significantly decreased (P = 0·011). IL-6 CA and GA haplotypes were the most frequent haplotypes in the patients (P < 0·005), whereas TNF-α GA (P = 0·002) and IL-6 GG (P < 0·001) haplotypes were decreased significantly in the patients in comparison with controls. Cytokine single nucleotide polymorphisms could have a role in pathophysiology of CVID. High production of TNF-α is expected in some CVID patients based on the frequency of genotypes/haplotypes of these cytokine gene polymorphisms.
Malnutrition alters the rates of apoptosis in splenocytes and thymocyte subpopulations of rats
Authors: Ortiz R , Cortés L , Cortés E , Medina H
Published: October 2008

Malnutrition continues to be a major public health problem throughout the developing world. Nutritional deficiencies may be the most common cause of secondary immunodeficiency states in humans. It has been suggested that nutritional imbalances can induce apoptosis in a variety of cell types. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of severe malnutrition on cell subsets and the frequency of spontaneous and/or dexamethasone-induced cell death in vivo in the thymus and spleen from severely malnourished, lactating rats. Apoptosis frequency was estimated by flow cytometry using annexin-V and terminal transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labelling assay assays. The results obtained in the present study indicate that malnutrition is associated with a significant increase of spontaneously apoptotic cells in the thymus (9·8-fold) and spleen (2·4-fold). Increase in apoptosis was associated largely with CD4+CD8+ double-positive thymocytes. Unexpectedly, similar frequencies of spontaneous apoptosis of these cells were found in both well-nourished and malnourished rats. In contrast, consistent increases in the apoptosis of CD4-CD8- double-negative thymocytes were observed in malnourished rats. In addition, single-positive CD8+ and single-positive CD4+ thymocytes had higher frequencies of apoptosis in malnourished rats. The frequency of total dexamethasone-induced apoptosis was found to be similar in both groups of animals. Nevertheless, in malnourished dexamethasone-treated animals, the percentage of apoptotic double-negative thymocytes was significantly higher than in well-nourished animals, while the rate of apoptosis was lower among double-positive cells. In general, the thymus appears more sensitive to the effects of malnutrition and dexamethasone than the spleen. Furthermore, double-negative thymocytes appear to be the most affected.
Effect of dentinal tubule occlusion by dentifrice containing nano‐carbonate apatite
Authors: LEE S. Y. , KWON H. K. , KIM B. I.
Published: October 2008

Summary  This study evaluated the effects of the short‐term use of a dentifrice containing nano‐sized carbonate apatite (n‐CAP) on the occlusion of the dentinal tubules using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and an image analyser in vitro. One hundred human dentine specimens were wet ground with a silicone carbide papers and etched with 6% citric acid for 1 min to allow complete opening of the dentinal tubule. Specimens showing complete opening tubules were used as the baseline. The specimens were divided randomly into five groups: G1: 0% n‐CAP, G2: 5% n‐CAP, G3: 10% n‐CAP, G4: 20% n‐CAP and G5: 10%strontium chloride (SrCl2). Five specimens from each group were brushed by applying 50, 100, 250 and 500 strokes, respectively. All the specimens were evaluated by a SEM (×3000), and the degree of occlusion of the dentinal tubules was quantified using an image analyser. The results were analysed by one‐way anova and a Tukey’s test using the spss 12·0 statistical package program. The dentifrice containing 20% n‐CAP for 50 strokes, which indicated 2‐day use, showed the highest tubular occlusion than the other groups (P < 0·05). Moreover, this group showed 79·5% and 77·4% less open tubular area than the baseline and 0% n‐CAP group, respectively. The groups containing various concentrations of n‐CAP showed significant differences in the SrCl2 group after tooth‐brushing for 500 strokes, which indicated 17‐day use. According to this examination of the short‐term use of desensitizing dentifrices in vitro, the dentifrice containing 20% n‐CAP was the most effective in occluding the dentinal tubules.
Oro‐facial activities in sleep bruxism patients and in normal subjects: a controlled polygraphic and audio–video study
Authors: DUTRA K. M. C. , PEREIRA JR F. J. , ROMPRÉ P. H. , HUYNH N. , FLEMING N. , LAVIGNE G. J.
Published: October 2008

Summary  To our knowledge, the large spectrum of sleep motor activities (SMA) present in the head and neck region has not yet been systematically estimated in normal and sleep bruxism (SB) subjects. We hypothesized that in the absence of audio–video signal recordings, normal and SB subjects would present a high level of SMA that might confound the scoring specificity of SB. A retrospective analysis of several SMA, including oro‐facial activities (OFA) and rhythmic masticatory muscle activities (RMMA), was made from polygraphic and audio–video recordings of 21 normal subjects and 25 SB patients. Sleep motor activities were scored, blind to subject status, from the second night of sleep recordings. Discrimination of OFA included the following types of activities: lip sucking, head movements, chewing‐like movements, swallowing, head rubbing and scratching, eye opening and blinking. These were differentiated from RMMA and tooth grinding. The frequency of SMA per hour of sleep was lower in normal subjects in comparison with SB patients (P < 0·001). Up to 85% of all SMA in normal subjects were related to OFA while 30% of SMA in SB patients were related to OFA scoring (P < 0·001). The frequency of RMMA was seven times higher in SB patients than in normal subjects (P < 0·001). Several SMA can be observed in normal and SB subjects. In the absence of audio–video signal recordings, the discrimination of various types of OFA is difficult to achieve and may lead to erroneous estimation of SB‐related activities.
Chronic sleep reduction, functioning at school and school achievement in preadolescents
Authors: MEIJER ANNE MARIE
Published: October 2008

This study investigates the relationship between chronic sleep reduction, functioning at school and school achievement of boys and girls. To establish individual consequences of chronic sleep reduction (tiredness, sleepiness, loss of energy and emotional instability) the Chronic Sleep Reduction Questionnaire has been developed. A total of 436 children (210 boys, 214 girls, 2 missing; mean age = 11 years and 5 months) from the seventh and eight grades of 12 elementary schools participated in this study. The inter‐item reliability (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.84) and test–retest reliability (r = 0.78) of the Chronic Sleep Reduction Questionnaire were satisfactory. The construct validity of the questionnaire as measured by a confirmative factor analysis was acceptable as well (CMIN/DF = 1.49; CFI = 0.94; RMSEA = 0.034). Cronbach’s alpha’s of the scales measuring functioning at school (teacher’s influence, self‐image as pupil, and achievement motivation) were 0.69, 0.86 and 0.79. School achievement was based on self‐reported marks concerning six school subjects. To test the models concerning the relations of chronic sleep reduction, functioning at school, and school achievement, the covariance matrix of these variables were analysed by means of structural equation modelling. To test for differences between boys and girls a multi‐group model is used. The models representing the relations between chronic sleep reduction – school achievement and chronic sleep reduction – functioning at school – school achievement fitted the data quite well. The impact of chronic sleep reduction on school achievement and functioning at school appeared to be different for boys and girls. Based on the results of this study, it may be concluded that chronic sleep reduction may affect school achievement directly and indirectly via functioning at school, with worse school marks as a consequence.
Sleep and sleep ecology in the first 3 years: a web‐based study
Authors: SADEH AVI , MINDELL JODI A. , LUEDTKE KATHRYN , WIEGAND BENJAMIN
Published: October 2008

This study was designed to provide data on sleep patterns during the first 3 years, based on a large US–Canada Internet sample, to assess the prevalence of parental interventions and related factors of infant sleep ecology and to evaluate the links between sleep ecology and sleep. Five thousand six parents completed a web‐based online questionnaire about their children, aged from birth to 36 months. The questionnaire included items pertaining to sleep patterns, sleep environment, sleep‐related parental interventions, sleep position, and demographic information. The results reflected clear sleep‐related developmental changes including a decrease in daytime sleep and total sleep time, as well as consolidation of sleep during the night, which was manifested in a decrease in night wakings and nocturnal wakefulness. Sleep ecology and parental behaviors significantly explained a portion of the variance in the child’s sleep patterns. Parental interventions that encourage independence and self‐soothing were associated with extended and more consolidated sleep, especially in comparison to more active interactions that were associated with shorter and more fragmented sleep. These findings provide parents and professionals reference data for assessing sleep in young children. Furthermore, the results provide information on specific ecological factors that are associated with increased risk for sleep problems.
Live‐cell imaging of viral RNA genomes using a Pumilio‐based reporter
Authors: Tilsner Jens , Linnik Olga , Christensen Nynne M. , Bell Karen , Roberts Ian M. , Lacomme Christophe , Oparka Karl J.
Published: October 2008

We describe a method for localizing plant viral RNAs in vivo using Pumilio, an RNA‐binding protein, coupled to bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC). Two Pumilio homology domain (PUMHD) polypeptides, fused to either the N‐ or C‐terminal halves of split mCitrine, were engineered to recognize two closely adjacent eight‐nucleotide sequences in the genomic RNA of tobacco mosaic virus (TMV). Binding of the PUMHDs to their target sites brought the split mCitrine halves into close proximity, allowing BiFC to occur and revealing the localization of viral RNA within infected cells. The bulk of the RNA was sequestered in characteristic inclusion bodies known as viral replication complexes (VRCs), with a second population of RNA localized in discrete particles distributed throughout the peripheral cytoplasm. Transfer of the TMV Pumilio recognition sequences into the genome of potato virus X (PVX) allowed the PVX RNA to be localized. Unlike TMV, the PVX RNA was concentrated in distinctive ‘whorls’ within the VRC. Optical sectioning of the PVX VRCs revealed that one of the viral movement proteins was localized to the centres of the RNA whorls, demonstrating significant partitioning of viral RNA and proteins within the VRC. The utility of Pumilio as a fluorescence‐based reporter for viral RNA is discussed.
A cell‐free system for light‐dependent nuclear import of phytochrome
Authors: Pfeiffer Anne , Kunkel Tim , Hiltbrunner Andreas , Neuhaus Gunther , Wolf Iris , Speth Volker , Adam Eva , Nagy Ferenc , Schäfer Eberhard
Published: October 2008

Translocation from the cytosol to the nucleus is an essential step in phytochrome (phy) signal transduction. In the case of phytochrome A (phyA), this step occurs with the help of FHY1 (far‐red‐elongated hypocotyl 1), a specific transport protein. To investigate the components involved in phyA transport, we used a cell‐free system that facilitates the controlled addition of transport factors. For this purpose, we isolated nuclei from the unicellular green algae Acetabularia acetabulum. These nuclei are up to 100 μm in diameter and allow easy detection of imported proteins. Experiments with isolated nuclei of Acetabularia showed that FHY1 is sufficient for phyA transport. The reconstituted system demonstrates all the characteristics of phytochrome transport in Arabidopsis thaliana. In addition, FHY1 was also actively exported from the nucleus, consistent with its role as a shuttle protein in plants. Therefore, we believe that isolated Acetabularia nuclei may be used as a general tool to study nuclear transport of plant proteins.
A molecular and structural characterization of senescing Arabidopsis siliques and comparison of transcriptional profiles with senescing petals and leaves
Authors: Wagstaff Carol , Yang Thomas J.W. , Stead Anthony D. , Buchanan‐Wollaston Vicky , Roberts Jeremy A.
Published: October 2008

Senescence of plant organs is a genetically controlled process that regulates cell death to facilitate nutrient recovery and recycling, and frequently precedes, or is concomitant with, ripening of reproductive structures. In Arabidopsis thaliana, the seeds are contained within a silique, which is itself a photosynthetic organ in the early stages of development and undergoes a programme of senescence prior to dehiscence. A transcriptional analysis of the silique wall was undertaken to identify changes in gene expression during senescence and to correlate these events with ultrastructural changes. The study revealed that the most highly up‐regulated genes in senescing silique wall tissues encoded seed storage proteins, and the significance of this finding is discussed. Global transcription profiles of senescing siliques were compared with those from senescing Arabidopsis leaf or petal tissues using microarray datasets and metabolic pathway analysis software (MapMan). In all three tissues, members of NAC and WRKY transcription factor families were up‐regulated, but components of the shikimate and cell‐wall biosynthetic pathways were down‐regulated during senescence. Expression of genes encoding ethylene biosynthesis and action showed more similarity between senescing siliques and petals than between senescing siliques and leaves. Genes involved in autophagy were highly expressed in the late stages of death of all plant tissues studied, but not always during the preceding remobilization phase of senescence. Analyses showed that, during senescence, silique wall tissues exhibited more transcriptional features in common with petals than with leaves. The shared and distinct regulatory events associated with senescence in the three organs are evaluated and discussed.
An investigation of carbohydrate and protein degradation ratios, nitrogen to energy synchronization and hourly effective rumen digestion of barley: effect of variety and growth year
Authors: Yu Peiqiang , Hart K. , Du L.
Published: October 2008

The objective of this study was to investigate rumen available soluble, insoluble and total protein (CP), estimated structural (SC) and non‐structural carbohydrate (starch: ST), degradation characteristic ratios and hourly effective degradation of six barley varieties during three consecutive growth years (2003, 2004, 2005). The magnitude of the differences was determined between the varieties and growth years. Measured degradation kinetics included soluble fraction (S), undegradable fraction (U), lag time (T0) and rate of degradation (Kd) of the insoluble but degradable fraction (D). Rumen available soluble, insoluble, and total N, SC and ST and the rumen degradation characteristic ratios were determined using the Tamminga rumen degradation ratio system. Characteristics of the hourly effective degradation between N and carbohydrate (CHO) among the six barley varieties for 3 years were also studied. The degradation ratios included were total rumen available N and carbohydrate ratio (FN/FCHO), rumen available soluble N and carbohydrate ratio (SN/SCHO), and rumen available insoluble N and carbohydrate ratio (EN/ECHO). Results show that both the barley variety and growth year had a significant effect on degradation kinetics (S, D, U, T0 and/or Kd). Differences in the ratio of FN/FCHO among varieties ranged from 16.6 to 19.0 g/kg (p < 0.01). There was no difference in SN/SCHO (p > 0.05) with an average of 4.9 g/kg. The difference in the EN/ECHO ratio tended to be significant among the varieties (p = 0.069) ranging from 18.4 to 21.3 g/kg. Differences in the hourly effective degradation between N and CHO were relatively small at shorter incubation times (2–4 h) However, as the length of rumen incubation increased (12–24 h), much larger differences in the rate of effective hourly degradation were observed. In conclusion, both barley variety and growth year had significant effects on rumen degradation kinetics. The mean FN/FCHO ratio of 17.2 (16.6–19.0) was observed for the six barley varieties in this experiment. All barley varieties exhibited a less optimal rumen fermentation ratio (17.2 < optimum: FN/FCHO = 25 to 33 g N per kg CHO). The large differences in the degradation kinetics, characteristics ratios and hourly effective degradation among barley varieties and growth years may help to explain some of the large variations that are seen in cattle performance.
Influence of varying dietary electrolyte balance on broiler performance under tropical summer conditions
Authors: Ahmad T. , Mushtaq T. , Khan M. A. , Babar M. E. , Yousaf M. , Hasan Z. U. , Kamran Z.
Published: October 2008

A 6‐week feeding trial was conducted to determine the effects of varying dietary electrolyte balance (DEB) on growth performance and physiological responses in broiler chicks reared during hot summer months (26.1–37.5 °C). The average minimum and maximum room temperatures recorded from 14 to 42 days of age were 26.1 and 37.5 °C, respectively, with relative humidity ranging from 51% to 55%. Five DEB treatments supplying 0, 50, 150, 250 and 350 (Na++K+–Cl−) mEq/kg of diet were prepared by adding NaHCO3 and/or NH4Cl to basal diet that contained 185 mEq/kg from 1 to 28 days and 172 mEq/kg from 29 to 42 days. These DEB diets were randomly offered to six experimental units of 20 chicks each. Improved 42‐day body weight gain (BWG), feed:gain (F:G) and reduced mortality was noted with DEB 50, 150 and 250 mEq/kg compared to DEB 0 and 350 mEq/kg. A quadratic effect of increasing DEB level was observed on BWG and F:G, whereas the effect was linear for feed intake, water intake and litter moisture. The DEB 50, 150 and 250 maintained better blood pH, pCO2 and HCO3 concentrations during acute heat stress periods than that of 0 and 350. The blood heterophil and lymphocyte percent as well as heterophil:lymphocyte were remained unaffected. The lowest DEB (0 mEq/kg) diet reduced the feed intake and promoted metabolic acidosis. At 350 mEq/kg DEB, water intake and metabolic alkalosis were promoted probably due to high levels of dietary NaHCO3. The study concluded that overall better performance was recorded with DEB 50, 150 and 250 mEq/kg. These results indicated that single optimal DEB value could not be recommended to combat heat stress in broilers.
Effect of mixing dietary fibre (purified lignocellulose or purified pectin) and a corn meal on glucose and insulin responses in healthy horses
Authors: Vervuert I. , Klein S. , Coenen M.
Published: October 2008

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the addition of a purified soluble (pectin) and insoluble (lignocellulose) fibre to a starchy meal on post‐prandial glucose and insulin responses in healthy horses. Four horses were fed in a randomized order three different diets: (i) cracked corn, (ii) cracked corn mixed with purified lignocellulose, and (iii) cracked corn mixed with purified pectin. Each diet was adjusted to a starch intake of 2 g/kg bodyweight (BW). Lignocellulose was aligned to an intake of 0.2 g/kg BW, and pectin was fed in a dosage of 0.1 g/kg BW. Each period consisted of a 10‐day acclimatization to the diet (fed once per day); during this time, the horses were fed 1.2 kg hay/100 kg BW/day. Blood was collected after each acclimatization period before and after the test meal was fed, without any hay. The increase in plasma glucose and insulin, peak values, and area under the curves were similar for all diets. The present findings suggest that adding purified soluble or insoluble fibre to a corn meal does not affect post‐prandial glucose and insulin responses in healthy horses. Feeding strategies for horses with a high energy requirement should include a starch reduction per meal, rather than the addition of purified fibre.
Mapping of QTL for resistance against Fusarium head blight in the winter wheat population Pelikan//Bussard/Ning8026
Authors: Häberle J. , Schweizer G. , Schondelmaier J. , Zimmermann G. , Hartl L.
Published: October 2008

We report on the identification of FHB (Fusarium head blight) resistance quantitative trait loci (QTL) of the donor ‘G93010’ (Bussard/Ning8026) in the background of elite breeding material adapted to the central European climate. With a multiple interval mapping method, two major resistance QTL were identified. Qfhs.lfl‐7BS/5BL and Qfhs.lfl‐6BS reduced FHB severity individually by 30% and 24%. The combination of both QTL decreased disease severity most effectively by about one half. Qfhs.lfl‐6BS is most likely identical to Fhb2, thus, the effectiveness of Fhb2 in central European breeding material has been validated. Qfhs.lfl‐7BS/5BL overlapped with QTL for plant height and heading date. Nevertheless, the selection of lines combining a good FHB resistance level with an acceptable plant height was possible. As the donors of the QTL have probably not yet been utilized in European breeding material, we identified well‐adapted lines of the mapping population as valuable donors for marker‐assisted breeding programmes.
Incidence of Error in Oestrus Detection Based on Secondary Oestrus Signs in a 24‐h Tie‐Stalled Dairy Herd with Low Fertility
Authors: Ranasinghe RMSBK , Nakao T , Kobayashi A
Published: October 2008

Contents

Oestrus detection error and conception rates after AI based only on secondary oestrus signs were evaluated in a high yielding, 24‐h tie‐stalled dairy herd with low fertility, using milk progesterone profiles. Oestrus detection was based on the secondary oestrus signs such as restlessness, swelling, congestion of vulva and clear mucus discharge. Sixty eight AI conducted after observing the secondary oestrus signs in 44 animals were included in the study. Of the 68 AI, 53 (77.9%) were conducted in the follicular phase, and 13 (19.1%) and 2 (2.9%) were carried out in the luteal phase and during pregnancy, respectively. The overall error in oestrus detection based on milk progesterone profiles was 22.1%. The oestrus detection error did not differ significantly among different secondary oestrus signs. None of the AI conducted in the luteal phase resulted in conception, whereas 20.8% of AI conducted in the follicular phase resulted in conception. No significant difference in the conception rates among the groups of cows with different secondary oestrus signs was shown. The high incidence of oestrus detection error in this study might have been caused by the detection of cows in oestrus based only on secondary oestrus signs due to the confinement of animals. In conclusion, there was a high incidence of heat detection error in the 24‐h tie‐stalled dairy herd and oestrus detection based only on secondary oestrus signs resulted in low conception rate.
Risk Factors for the Development of Haemorrhagic Anovulatory Follicles in the Mare
Authors: Cuervo‐Arango J , Newcombe JR
Published: October 2008

Contents

Haemorrhage into the dominant follicle during the reproductive season is a subtle but definitive cause of infertility in the mare population. This condition however can be of high relevance for an individual in which its incidence is abnormally high. Little is known about the nature and factors affecting the incidence of haemorrhagic anovulatory follicles (HAFs) in the mare. The objectives of the study were to define and characterize the ultrasonographic development and incidence of HAFs and to investigate possible risk factors influencing its occurrence. Detailed reproductive and ultrasound records of seven mares studied during their entire reproductive lives (>10 years and 612 oestrous cycles) were analysed retrospectively and computed into a statistical mixed model. Of all animal studied, two mares were found to have an unusually high incidence of HAFs of approximately 25%. Time of season and use of induction treatments (Cloprostenol) were found to influence its incidence. It appears that early‐enhanced stimulatory effect of LH on an ovary with the presence of small and immature follicles might increase the risk of ovulatory failure of those follicles later in the cycle. Mares during the months of highest follicular activity (May to August) and after treatment with hormones to induce oestrus and ovulation are at greater risk to develop HAFs. The potential relevance of this study is two folds: clinical relevance for the practitioner to better understand this condition and so improve reproductive management of mares with abnormally high incidence; and to provide useful insights for researchers willing to further investigate the nature of this phenomenon.
Single‐Layer Centrifugation Through Colloid Positively Modifies the Sperm Subpopulation Structure of Frozen–Thawed Stallion Spermatozoa
Authors: García B Macías , Fernández L González , Morrell JM , Ferrusola C Ortega , Tapia JA , Martínez H Rodriguez , Peña FJ
Published: October 2008

Contents

The present study attempted to select the subpopulation of stallion spermatozoa that best survived a conventional freezing and thawing procedure, using centrifugation of post‐thawed semen samples through a single layer of a glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane‐coated silica colloid with a species‐specific formulation (Androcoll‐E™). After freezing and thawing, four sperm subpopulations were identified, listed as FT1 to FT4. While subpopulations FT1 and FT2 were characterized by low sperm velocity, high velocities characterized the ones called FT3 and FT4. The single‐layer centrifugation (SLC)‐handled sperm sample was enriched in subpopulation FT3, reaching a proportion of 82.6% of the present spermatozoa, in contrast with the non‐filtered control post‐thawed semen, where this sperm subpopulation only accounted for 16.3% of the total. It is concluded that in the equine industry, the SLC is a practical, easy‐to‐perform approach to improve the quality of equine frozen–thawed semen samples.
Model Selection for Monetary Policy Analysis: How Important is Empirical Validity?*
Authors: Farooq Akram Q. , Nymoen Ragnar
Published: October 2008

We investigate the economic significance of trading off empirical validity of models against other desirable model properties. Our investigation is based on three alternative econometric systems of the supply side, in a model that can be used to discuss optimal monetary policy in Norway. Our results caution against compromising empirical validity when selecting a model for policy analysis. We also find large costs from basing policies on the robust model, or on a suite of models, even when it contains the valid model. This confirms an important role for econometric modelling and evaluation in model choice for policy analysis.
Does Society Win or Lose as a Result of Privatization? The Case of Water Sector Privatization in Colombia
Authors: BARRERA‐OSORIO FELIPE , OLIVERA MAURICIO , OSPINO CARLOS
Published: October 2008

This paper evaluates the impact of water sector privatization in Colombia on access, price and water quality, as well as health outcomes using differences‐in‐differences methodology. The main findings of the impact of water privatization are: (i) an improvement in the quality of water and an increase in the frequency of the service in privatized urban municipalities for the lower quintiles; (ii) a positive effect on health outcomes in both urban and rural areas; (iii) a negative effect on payment for the lower quintiles; and (iv) strong negative effects on access to water in rural areas. Some of these effects appear in municipalities with better technical capacity.
Temperance in Stock Market Participation: Evidence from France
Authors: ARRONDEL LUC , PARDO HECTOR CALVO , OLIVER XISCO
Published: October 2008

We explore empirically whether earnings uncertainty and borrowing constraints deter households from the stock market, consistent with the predictions of theoretical studies of portfolio choice in the presence of uninsurable earnings. Since recent extensions highlight the importance of the correlation between earnings and financial risks, here we use a self‐assessed proxy from the DELTA‐TNS 2002 cross‐sectional survey to empirically assess the impact. Although income risk does not affect the participation decision of households' reporting a negative correlation, it does lower the participation of those who report a non‐negative sign, consistent with economic theory predictions.
Railway (De)Regulation: A European Efficiency Comparison
Authors: FRIEBEL GUIDO , IVALDI MARC , VIBES CATHERINE
Published: October 2008

We estimate the effects of reforms on railroad efficiency in Europe by using a new panel data set that covers most EU countries over a period of more than 20 years. A production frontier model finds that efficiency increases when reforms such as third‐party network access, introduction of an independent regulator, and vertical separation are implemented. However, the reform effects depend on sequencing: introduction of multiple reforms in a package has negative effects, while sequential reforms improve efficiency. We also show that our results are robust against potential problems of endogeneity.
Incidence and antibiotic susceptibility of bacteriocin‐producing lactic acid bacteria from dairy products
Authors: MIRHOSSEINI MAHBOUBEH , NAHVI IRAJ , EMTIAZI GITI , TAVASOLI MANOUCHER
Published: October 2008

Screening for bacteriocin production by strains of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from local dairy products in Iran resulted in the detection of 10 bacteriocin‐producing strains. Among 105 isolated, 10 bacteriocin producers were phenotypically and genotypically identified as Enterococcus spp. The antimicrobial compounds produced by these novel strains were inactivated by trypsin, proteinase k. These bacteriocins also were active in a wide range of pH and temperature values, and inhibited not only the closely related LAB, but also Listeria monocytogenes.
Whole‐body vibration dosage alters leg blood flow
Authors: Lythgo Noel , Eser Prisca , De Groot Patricia , Galea Mary
Published: October 2008

The effect of whole‐body vibration dosage on leg blood flow was investigated. Nine healthy young adult males completed a set of 14 random vibration and non‐vibration exercise bouts whilst squatting on a Galileo 900 plate. Six vibration frequencies ranging from 5 to 30 Hz (5 Hz increments) were used in combination with a 2·5 mm and 4·5 mm amplitude to produce twelve 1‐min vibration bouts. Subjects also completed two 1‐min bouts where no vibration was applied. Systolic and diastolic diameters of the common femoral artery and blood cell velocity were measured by an echo Doppler ultrasound in a standing or rest condition prior to the bouts and during and after each bout. Repeated measures MANOVAs were used in the statistical analysis. Compared with the standing condition, the exercise bouts produced a four‐fold increase in mean blood cell velocity (P<0·001) and a two‐fold increase in peak blood cell velocity (P<0·001). Compared to the non‐vibration bouts, frequencies of 10–30 Hz increased mean blood cell velocity by approximately 33% (P<0·01) whereas 20–30 Hz increased peak blood cell velocity by approximately 27% (P<0·01). Amplitude was additive to frequency but only achieved significance at 30 Hz (P<0·05). Compared with the standing condition, squatting alone produced significant increases in mean and peak blood cell velocity (P<0·001). The results show leg blood flow increased during the squat or non‐vibration bouts and systematically increased with frequency in the vibration bouts.
SYMPOSIUM ON DUAL CONTAINMENT: U.S. POLICY TOWARD IRAN AND IRAQ
Authors: Indyk Martin , Fuller Graham , Cordesman Anthony , Marr Phebe
Published: October 2008

The following is an edited version of a symposium sponsored by the Middle East Policy Council on February 24, 1994, in the Russell Senate Office Building in Washington, D.C. George McGovern, president of the Council, moderated the panel; Thomas R. Mattair, the Council̂s resident policy analyst, was the organizer and discussant.
Symposium: U.S. Policy Toward Iran: From Containment To Relentless Pursuit?
Authors: Laipson Ellen , Sick Gary , Cottam Richard
Published: October 2008

The following is an edited transcript of a meeting convened by the Middle East Policy Council on May 25, I995, in the Capitol Building in Washington, DC. Former Senator George McGovern, president of the council, introduced the panel; Thomas R. Mattair; the council'S director of research and policy analysis, was the organizer and moderator.
Symposium Development Assistance To The Middle East: Critical Perspectives
Authors: Hamilton Lee , Atwood Brian , Gubser Peter , Roy Sara
Published: October 2008

The following is an edited transcript of a Capitol Hill conference sponsored by the Middle East Policy Council on February 27, 1996, in the Dirksen Senate Office Building. Council President George McGovern was the moderator.
Gender, Politics and the State: What Do Middle Eastern Women Want?
Authors: Norton Augustus Richard , Singerman Diane , Morris Mary E. , Moghadam Valentine M. , Fakhro Munira A. , Saktanber Ayşe , Taraki Lisa , Cheriet Boutheina , Carapico Sheila
Published: October 2008

The essays that follow are drawn from invited presentations of the Conference Group on the Middle East, which meets annually in conjunction with the American Political Science Association. The essays published here were presented in San Francisco, August 29‐September 1, 1996, on one of three panels dealing with gender, politics and the state. Thanks to the continuing generosity of the Ford Foundation, five scholars from the Middle East were able to participate. The contributors would like to thank Farhad Kazemi, Deborah Gerner and Jean Lecafor their excellent comments at the panels. Louis J. Cantori, who has shepherded the Conference Group since its creation by a group of University of Chicago graduates more than a decade ago, deserves special thanks for his tireless commitment.
Symposium: What are the Costs of No Peace?
Authors: Indyk Martin S. , Pelletreau Robert H. , Fandy Mamoun , Lustick Ian S.
Published: October 2008

The following is an edited transcript of the sixteenth in a series of Capitol Hill conferences convened by the Middle East Policy Council. The meeting was held on October 2, 1998, in the Hart Senate Office Building.
Symposium: After Saddam, What Then for Iraq?
Authors: Laipson Ellen , Clawson Patrick L. , Parasiliti Andrew , Francke Rend Rahim
Published: October 2008

The following is an edited transcript of the seventeenth in a series of Capitol Hill conferences convened by the Middle East Policy Council. The meeting was held on January 28, 1999, in the Hart Senate Office Building.
Rabbinic Call for a Shared Jerusalem
Authors: Lobby Jewish Peace
Published: October 2008

This statement was signed in February 2000 by 314 reform, conservative and reconstructionist American rabbis. It resulted from a year‐long educational project involving 1200 rabbis. The president of the Jewish Peace Lobby is Jerome M. Segal, research scholar at the Center for International and Security Studies at the University of Maryland.
The Peace Beyond the Peace: What Role for Iran and Iraq?
Authors: Wurmser David , Carpenter Ted Galen , Peck Edward , Fuller Graham
Published: October 2008

The following is an edited transcript of the twenty‐first in a series of Capitol Hill conferences convened by the Middle East Policy Council. The meeting was held on May 4, 2000, in the Dirksen Senate Office Building with Chas. W. Freeman, Jr., moderating.
On the Economics of Moral Preferences
Authors: Vanberg Viktor J.
Published: October 2008

Abstract. The long‐standing critique of the “economic model of man” has gained new impetus, not least due to the broadening research in behavioral and experimental economics. Many of the critics have focused on the apparent difficulty of traditional rational choice theory to account for the role of moral or ethical concerns in human conduct, and a number of authors have suggested modifications in the standard model in response to such critique. This article takes issue with a quite commonly adopted “revisionist” strategy, namely, seeking to account for moral concerns by including them as additional preferences in an agent's utility function. It is argued that this strategy ignores the critical difference betweenpreferences over outcomesandpreferences over actions, and that it fails to recognize that “moral preferences” belong in the second category. Preferences over actions, however, cannot be consistently accounted for within a theoretical framework that focuses on the rationality of single actions. They require a shift of perspective, from a theory of rational choice to a theory of rule‐following behavior.
The Complex Course of Ideological Change
Authors: Higgs Robert
Published: October 2008

Abstract. Ideologies are somewhat coherent, rather comprehensive belief systems about social relations, each such system having cognitive, moral, programmatic, and solidary aspects. Such belief systems have played a critical role in determining the nature of the economic order and the size of government, among other things, but scholars have yet to formulate a convincing account of how and why ideological change occurs. In this article, the author discusses some important aspects of ideology and ideological change, indicates how certain notable thinkers have tried to account for such change, and suggests how we might think more productively about some open questions that invite further research.